The virtues of the First Ten Days of Thul Hijjah - فضل العشر من ذي الحجة

Makkah friday khutbah

By: 'Abdur Rahmaan Sudais

www.alminbar.com

Slaves of Allah! You are approaching virtuous days; they are the best days as the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said in an authentic hadeeth: “The best days in this life are the (first) ten days of Thu’l-Hijjah”. Furthermore, Allah swore by them in His Book, and when Allah swears by something, it is a reflection of its great importance. Allah says that which translates to: “By the dawn. And the nights of the ten days” (Al Fajr:1-2). These are the first ten days of Thu’l-Hijjah and they include the day of ‘Arafah, about which the Prophet Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “There is no day in which Allah frees more of His slaves from The Fire than the day of ‘Arafah” (Muslim). These ten days are concluded by the day of An Nahr (sacrifice); then follows the day of Al Qarr. The Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “The greatest days in the scale of Allah are the days of An Nahr and Al Qarr” (Abu Daawood). The day of An Nahr is the major day of Hajj and the day of ‘Eid; the day of Al Qarr is the following day. Virtuous deeds have a magnified position during these days. The Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than the (first) ten days of Thu’l-Hijjah” (Ad-Daarimi), in another narration the companions asked: “Not even Jihaad for the sake of Allah?” he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “Not even Jihaad for the sake of Allah, except for a man who loses (sacrifices) both his wealth and life in a battle” (Ahmad, Abu Dawood, Ibn Maajah, At-Tirmidhi).

What great virtues and what a great season! What an opportunity this is to collect greater rewards than that of Jihaad, which is the best deed after sound belief and punctual salaah. This season represents a wonderful opportunity for those who want to compete in collecting rewards and a miserable loss for the idle, who shun such opportunities.

Slaves of Allah! Compete for and rush towards the forgiveness of Allah and paradise which is as wide as the heavens and earth and do not slacken and be unhurried, because the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “Being laid-back is best in every matter except for good deeds” (Abu Daawood & Al-Haakim). One must compete and march forward when it comes to working for the hereafter as Allah says that which translates as: “… So for this let the competitors compete” (Al Mutaffifeen:26) and also, “…So race to (all that is) good…” (Al-Baqarah:148).

In this season, the roads leading to goodness are numerous, so do not miss out on any of them. The intelligent ones are those who exhaust themselves during this season to gain abundantly; you see many of them joining their days with their nights, continuously doing righteous deeds and hardly sleeping in order to get the most out of this season. On the other hand, you see those who put all their efforts into the attainment of worldly gains. The sad fact is that the result of all this effort would be, at most, the doubling of their capital - if indeed they do not actually lose it. As for the wise believers, nothing is dearer to them than increasing their efforts and righteous deeds that please the Lord, get them closer to Him and elevate their ranks; Allah told us what pleases Him in His Book and through His messenger; Allah will guide those who truly wish for goodness (if He Wills).

Salaah is one of the ways leading to goodness and something that Allah loves. The slave must be keen to perform it in congregation as Allah says that which translates to: “…And bow (in rukoo’) with those who bow” (Al Baqarah:43), and the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said, “He who hears the Athaan (call for Salaah) and does not respond, his Salaah is not accepted, except with the congregation, unless he has a (valid) excuse” (Ibn Maajah) The excuse is either fear, sickness or rain.

A slave of Allah who is guided would supply himself with optional salaah in these ten days, because it is a path to goodness and something that Allah loves. Abu Hurayrah narrated that the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “Salaah is the best thing that one can do, so perform as many as you possibly can” (At-Tabaraani) and he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam also said: “Two light rak’aat which you may think as insignificant to add to you deeds, is better for you than possessing the whole world” (Ibn Al Mubaarak) he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam also said, as narrated by Abu Hurayrah, “The son of Aadam could not do anything more beneficial for himself than salaah, reconciliation (between Muslims) and being well mannered” (Al Bayhaqi and others).

These were three examples of good deeds that lead to righteousness, salaah, reconciliation and being well mannered which are better than anything else that the son of Aadam can do, yet you see some people slight the performance of obligatory salaah, let alone optional salaah; you see them instigating disputes between people; and you see ill-mannered people who have lost out on the great reward for having a good character. So let us repent to Allah from our sins, reform our situation and improve our manners.

A woman was praised in the presence of the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam for her salaah, fasting and other good deeds; her only flaw was that she harmed her neighbours. Upon hearing the praise, the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “She is from the people of the Fire” (Ahmad). In reality, the guided ones are those who do all those things which please Allah and refrain from all those things that cause His wrath, as some of the scholars said: “Wisdom is to perform what you are obliged to, in the correct manner and on time; he who is granted wisdom has attained a great deal of good”.

Some of the Ahaadeeth which mention the virtues of optional salaah are as follows: “Prostrate as much as you can, because whenever you prostrate, Allah elevates your rank by a degree and wipes out a sin from your record” (Muslim) and in another narration: “Whenever a slave prostrates to Allah, Allah writes a reward for him, wipes out one of his sins and elevates his rank by one degree; so prostrate as much as you can” (Ibn Maajah). The way to perform salaah is as the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam described: “The night salaah is done two (rak’aat) at a time” (Al Bukhaari) and in another narration: “The optional salaah at night and during the day is done two Rak’ah at a time” (Ahmad, Ibn Maajah and others).

Slaves of Allah! Another of the paths to righteousness and fields of competition is reciting the Qur’aan. The Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “The best amongst you are those who learn the Qur’aan and then teach it” (Al Bukhaari) he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam also said: “He who recites a letter from the Book of Allah will get a reward and each of these rewards will be multiplied ten times. I do not mean ‘Alif Laam Meem’ is one letter, but rather ‘Alif” is a letter, ‘Laam is a letter and ‘Meem’ is a letter” (At Tirmidhi) and he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam also said: “If one of goes to the masjid and learns a verse or reads two verses from the Book of Allah, is better for him than owning two she-camels, (reading) three are better than (owning) three, (reading) four are better than (owning) four and so on” (Muslim) and also, “Let him who wants to attain love for Allah and His messenger read from The Book of Allah”.

Another of the fields of goodness is fasting as the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam encouraged us to “Fast on Mondays and Thursdays” (Ahmad & Nasaa’i) and “Fast the day of ‘Arafah” (Muslim) also: “Fast like the Prophet Daawood (who fasted every other day)” (Bukhaari & Muslim). I do not know of any specific reference that relates to any special virtue for fasting these ten days in particular, but, having said this I would add that one should still fast during these days because of the general texts encouraging good deeds during these ten days.

Another way is giving in charity; ‘Abdur Rahmaan Ibn Saburah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “(Every day) An Angel calls out in the heavens saying, ‘O Allah! Bless and compensate for the wealth of the one who spends (for your sake) and ruin the wealth of the one who holds back (from spending)’” (At-Tabaraani) Also he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said to Bilaal, may Allah be pleased with him: “Spend (charitably) O Bilaal! - and do not fear that Allah will decrease your provision (due to your spending)” and he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam addressed Asmaa’, may Allah be pleased with her, saying: “Spend (charitably) and don’t count (i.e. don’t be cautious in spending in this manner) otherwise your provisions will become limited and don’t hold back (from spending in charity) otherwise your provisions will be held back” (Bukhaari & Muslim) The Messenger of Allah sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam also said: “I swear that these three things are true: That giving in charity does not decrease the wealth of the slave …..…” (Ahmad & Tirmidhi). Giving in charity enables one to be among the seven categories of people who will be protected under the shade of the Throne of Allah; regarding this, the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “… and a man who gave charity so secretly that even his left hand would not know how much his right hand had spent” (Bukhaari & Muslim) also, “Charity given in secret extinguishes the wrath of Allah”. One of the best forms of charitable giving is to give someone a drink of water as the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “The best form of charity is giving someone water (to drink)” (Ahmad, An Nasaa’i and Ibn Maajah).

O slaves of Allah! One of the best deeds in these days is to initiate Hajj as a way of drawing closer to Allah and fasting the day of ‘Arafah for those who are not performing Hajj. Allah willing we will talk about the virtues of Hajj in another Khutbah. Offering a sacrificial animal is also one of the most virtuous deeds that one can perform. The Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “He who does not offer a sacrifice while being financially able to, let him not come close to our masjid (i.e. pray with us)” and he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam also said: “When the ten days (Thu’l-Hijjah) have begun and one of you intends to offer a sacrifice, then let him not cut any of his hair or remove anything from his skin” (Muslim) in another narration he sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: “Let him not cut anything from his hair or nails until he sacrifices” (Ad Daarimi).

These are examples of virtuous deeds, so take advantage of them; beware of laziness and neglect and know that Allah has favoured certain seasons over others, so let us take advantage of these opportunities and increase our righteous deeds; perhaps Allah will forgive us for our sins and shortcomings.

Death - الموت

Makkah friday khutbah

By: 'Abdul Baari ath-Thubayti

http://www.alminbar.com/

All praise is due to Allah. I testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger.

I enjoin you and myself to fear Allah, for it is the provision and safety in this world and the Last Day, “the day when neither wealth nor sons will avail, except him who brings to Allah a clean heart.” (Ash Shu’araa’: 88-89).

Allah says, “Everyone shall taste death. And only on the day of Resurrection shall you be paid your wages in full. And whoever is removed away from the fire and admitted to Paradise he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception (a deceiving thing).” (Aal‘Imraan: 175).

Such is the reality of death and what comes after it. Every one of us shall taste it whether poor or rich; healthy or sick, old or young; leader or led and none of us can escape it.

Allah says, “Whosesoever you may be, death will overtake you even if you are in a fortress built up strong and high.” (An Nisaa: 78).

Death, as manifested in its character and effects is one of the mysteries that dazzles human intelligence because it has to do with the soul.

Allah says, “And they ask you (O Muhammad) concerning the spirit. Say: ‘The spirit is one of the things, the knowledge of which is only with my Lord. And of knowledge, you (mankind) have been given only a little.” (Al Israa’:85).

One of it mysteries is that you see a youth who was full of health and energy suddenly falls dead without warning; thereby making that youthfulness and energy fade away, bringing all his senses to a complete standstill. That youth might even be an erudite scholar, an eloquent author, a skilled physician or brilliant inventor but it is absolutely out of the question that this quality should prevent death from overtaking him when his time is due.

Allah says, “When their term is reached, neither can they delay it nor can they advance it an hour (or a moment).” (Yoonus:49).

‘Amr Ibn Abdullah used to mount the pulpit and say, “Many a person who has seen the beginning of a day but would not see its end. And many a person who has expected morning but would not live to see it. If only you had known your appointed time and how it comes to pass, you would have detested nursing hope for worldly materials and its deception.”

While man enjoys his good health, playing and merrymaking, moving about in haughtiness, commanding and forbidding, death and illness suddenly attacks him, weakens his body, makes his limbs lifeless and then closes his record.

How near is death! Every day it becomes closer to us and no sooner has the book reached its appointed time that we belong among the dead. Then it becomes clear that life is really like flowers that bloom then afterwards wither or like a lamp that illuminates then afterwards dies down.

Let those who crave for this world and its pleasures ponder over these scattered graves all over the place and realize that the way to pleasures and lustful things, though decorated with beautiful roses inevitably leads to the present condition of those buried in these graves. Happiness is for him whom a messenger of death has opened his eyes to reality before he died, and whoever does not heed to the warning of the Qur’an and death, even if mountains were to thrust one another in front of him, he would not heed.

Dear brothers! What we witness in the cemeteries is a great lesson for us. The carrier of the bier to the cemetery today is taken back there tomorrow (as a dead person) and is left there only with his deeds either good or evil.

It is also very unfortunate that in these days we see some among those who escort the deceased laughing and playing or attending the funeral for showing off. This phenomenon is due to the heedlessness that has hardened people’s hearts and made them forget the Last Day and the frightening conditions of the grave. May Allaah awaken us from this heedlessness!

Brothers in faith! It is expected of him who knows that he will die, be buried, raised up on the day of Resurrection and enters Paradise or Hell to always remember death, prepare for it and reflect on it. He is in fact expected to regard himself among the dead. This is because all that is coming is near and when the angel of death comes neither your wealth nor your people can prevent him from taking your soul.

Where are those who achieved their aims and none were comparable to them in that? They collected but could not eat what they collected; they built mansions but could not live there! We on our part are still swimming in the pool of life as if we are meant to live here forever. Uways Al-Qarnee said, “Remember death when you sleep and always think of it when you are awake.”

Fellow Muslims! It is a fact that this world and its tribulations appear insignificant in the eyes of him who always remembers death, for, he has lofty aims and strong resolutions; he is far from hypocrisy and always yearns for the everlasting bliss in the eternal Paradise.

Dear Brothers, Remembering death does not in any way make one’s life loathsome to him; forcing him to sit in his home and leave all means of sustenance. It is rather meant to deter him from committing sins and soften his hard heart. We remember death in order to have good preparation for it and for all that follows it by doing righteous deeds, obeying Allah and increasing one’s efforts in all acts of worship.

Abdur Rahmaan Ibn Mahdee said, “If Hammaad bin Salamah is told, ‘You will die tomorrow.’ He will not be able to increase anything in his deed, because his time is full of worship and remembrance of Allah.

How do we prepare for death? We prepare for death by shunning all abominable things and returning trusts to their rightful owners. We prepare for death by eliminating hatred and enmity from our hearts. We prepare for death by being good to the kith and kin.

Ibn al Mubaarak said that Saalih Al-Mariy used to say, “If the remembrance of death leaves me for an hour my heart becomes spoilt.”

It is also said that, “Whoever frequently remembers death is honored with three things: quick repentance, self-contentedness and energy in doing acts of worship; and whoever forgets death is punished with three things: delaying repentance, lack of contentedness and laziness in acts of worship.”

When will one who always follows his lustful desires and moves wantonly in his heedlessness remember death? When will one who has no regard for Allah’s injunctions in Halaal or Haraam remember death? When will one who deserts the Qur’an, prays not Fajr in congregation, usurps people’s property unlawfully, takes usury, and commits fornication, remember death? How can one whose habit is slandering others and backbiting, whose heart is full of rancor and envy remember death?

Fellow Muslims! The Prophets, whenever death came to them were given a chance of choosing between remaining on this world and moving to that noble position. It is beyond doubt that every Prophet would select the everlasting bliss. This happened to Prophet Muhammad, as narrated by Al Bukhaaree and Muslim on the authority of ‘Aa’ishah that she said, “The Messenger of Allah (r) used to say while he was healthy, ‘No Prophet died until he saw his place in the Paradise, he was then given the choice between that place and remaining in this world.’ So when he was dying and his head was on my thigh, he fainted for a while then regained his consciousness. He stared at the ceiling, then said, ‘O Allah! I choose the Highest Companionship.’ I then said, ‘He was not preferring us.’ It was then that I understood statement he used to tell us and it was true. She said, ‘The last word he uttered was: `Oh Allah, I choose the Highest Companionship.`”

During death and its pain; in the grave and its darkness; and the Day of Resurrection and its horror people fall into two groups. A group shall remain firm; secured from fright and given glad tidings of Paradise while the other group shall suffer disgrace and ignominy.

Allah says, “Verily, those who say, ‘Our Lord is Allah (alone) and then stood straight, on them the angel will descend (at the time of their death saying,) ‘Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised.’” (Fussilat:30).

Angels shall descend upon the believers who are straight in heir religion during death in their graves and when they are resurrected in order to assure them of security and to allay their fears of the horror of the day of judgement. The angels will be telling them, ‘Do not fear about what you are going to meet and do not grieve over what you will be leaving behind of children, family and wealth.’

The angels will also say, ‘We have been your friends in the life of this world and (are so) in the hereafter.’ (Fussilat:31) i.e. we will also be your friends in the hereafter, keeping your company in your graves and when the horn is blown, we will also assure you of security on the day of resurrection.

As for the unbelievers, when death comes to them and they start suffering its agonies, they will be subjected to ignominy and disgrace.

Allah says, “And if you could but see when the wrongdoers are in the agonies of death, while the angels are stretching forth their hands saying, Deliver your souls! This day you shall be recompensed with the torment of degradation because of what you used to utter against Allah other than the truth. And you used to reject His aayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) with disrespect” (Al An’aam:93).

Their sorrow shall increase so much so that they will wish to go back to this world. Allah says, “Until when death comes to one of them, he says, ‘My Lord send me back.’” (Al Mu’minoon:99).

Qataadah said while commenting on this verse, “By Allah, he would not wish by this statement to go back to his family and wealth nor to collect the good things of this world and satisfy his desires. He would rather wish to go back and do acts of obedience to Allaah. May Allaah bless him who does in this life what the disbelievers would wish to do when he sees the torment of Hell!

Fellow Muslims! How is the need of a dying Muslim to Allah’s success that his last words may be, “Laa ilaaha illa Allah”. Mu’aadh bin Jabal narrated that the Prophet said, “Whoever has ‘La ilaha illa Allah’ as his last words will enter Paradise.”

Ibn Al Qayyim said, “Dictating this word to a dying man is recommended because one who is dying experiences horrors that were unknown to him before, so it is feared that forgetfulness might overtake him since shaytan is close to human beings. Moreover, uttering this statement while dying has a great effect in erasing ones misdeeds because it is a testimony of a slave of Allah who believes in it and knows its meanings; for whose lustful desires are now dead and whose soul has become weak after its might. Then that testimony becomes his last utterance, it purifies him from all his sins because he meets with his Lord with a sincere testimony…”

The righteous predecessors also recommended that a dying person be reminded of his good deeds, so that he can have positive thoughts about his Lord. Jaabir narrated: The Messenger of Allah said, “None of you should die except in the state of having positive thoughts about Allah.” (Muslim).

The Sunnah encourages talking about good deeds of a dead person and abstaining from talking about his misdeeds. Al Bukhaaree reported on the authority of ‘Aa’ishah that she narrated, The Prophet said, “Do not abuse the dead; for they have gone to meet the consequences of their deeds.”’

Al Bukhaaree reported that Abul Aswad said, “I came to Madeenah while there was an epidemic there. I sat with ‘Umar Ibn Al Khattaab. Then a funeral procession passed by and people praised its owner. ‘Umar said, “It becomes incumbent.” Then another funeral procession passed by and people also praised its owner, and ‘Umar said, “its incumbent;” then a third procession passed by and people spoke ill of its owner. ‘Umar also commented, “It becomes incumbent.” Then I said, “What is incumbent, O Leader of the Faithful? ‘Umar answered, “I said as the Prophet said, that, “Any dead Muslim whom four persons testify in his favor, Allah will make him enter Paradise, We said, “And three persons?” He said, “And three persons.” We also said, “And two persons?” He said, “Yes, and two persons.” We did not thereafter ask him of one person.”

It should be added that those whose testimony is regarded are the people of virtue and truthfulness. The testimony of an enemy shall not be considered.

It is also recommendable that the person who washes the dead should conceal whatever defects he may see on him. It is also a right of a Muslim on his fellow Muslims to escort his funeral, pray on him and supplicate for him. Bukhaaree reported that Abu Hurairah narrated that the Prophet said, “Whoever attends the funeral of a Muslim faithfully and hoping for the reward of Allaah and stays with him until Salaah is done on him and he is buried, he will go back home with two qeeraats, each is as big as the size of Mount Uhud; and whoever observes Salaah on him and then goes back before he is buried will get one qeeraat.”

As regards debts, the family of the deceased should hasten to pay it because a believer’s soul hangs on his debt until it is paid on his behalf. Debts of Allah should also be promptly paid for; it more deserves to be paid.

Ibn Mas’ood said, “A Believer has no rest until he meets Allah.”

Who shall inherit al Firdaws?

1-11 aayaat of sorah al Mu'minoon

Tafsir Ibn Kathir

What is Jannatul Firdaws?

It was recorded in the Two Sahih that the Messenger of Allah said: "If you ask Allah for Paradise, then ask him for Al Firdaws, for it is the highest part of Paradise, in the middle of Paradise, and from it spring the rivers of Paradise, and above it is the (Mighty) Throne of the Most Merciful."

1. Successful indeed are the believers.
2. Those who with their salaah are khaashi`un (with fear and with tranquillity).
3. And those who turn away from Al-Laghw.
4. And those who pay the Zakah.
5. And those who guard their private parts.
6. Except from their wives or their right hand possessions, for then, they are free from blame.
7. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors.
8. Those who are faithfully true to their Amanat and to their covenants are Ra`un.
9. And those who strictly guard their Salawat.
10. These are indeed the heirs.
11. Who shall inherit Firdaws. They shall dwell therein forever.

The Success is for the believers whose qualities are described here

(Successful indeed are the believers) means, they have attained victory and are blessed, for they have succeeded.

***These are the believers who have the following characteristics ***

(Those who with their salaah are khaashi`un.)

`Ali bin Abi Talhah reported that Ibn `Abbas said: "(Khashi`un) means those with fear and with tranquillity." This was also narrated from Mujahid, Al-Hasan, Qatadah and Az-Zuhri.

It was reported from `Ali bin Abi Talib, radiallahu 3anh, that Khushu` means the Khushu` of the heart. This was also the view of Ibrahim An-Nakha`i.

Al Hasan Al Basri said, "Their Khushu` was in their hearts." So they lowered their gaze and were humble towards others.

Khushu` in prayer is only attained by the one who has emptied his heart totally, who does not pay attention to anything else besides it, and who prefers it above all else. At that point it becomes a delight and a joy for eyes, as in the Hadith recorded by Imam Ahmad and An-Nasai from Anas, who said that the Messenger of Allah said:(Fragrance and women have been made dear to me, and Salaah was made the joy of my eye.)

(And those who turn away from Al-Laghw.)

It refers to falsehood, which includes Shirk and sin, and any words or deeds that are of no benefit.

As Allah says: (And if they pass by Al-Laghw, they pass by it with dignity)[25:72].

Qatadah said: "By Allah, there came to them from Allah that which kept them away from that (evil)."

(And those who pay the Zakaah.)

Most commentators say that the meaning here is the Zakaah that is paid on wealth, even though this aaya was revealed in Makkah, and Zakaah was ordained in Al Madinah in the year 2 H. The apparent meaning is that the Zakaah that was instituted in Al Madinah is the one based upon the Nusub and the specific amounts, apart from which it seems that the basic principle of Zakah was enjoined in Makkah. As Allah says in Surat Al An`am, which was also revealed in Makkah: (but pay the due thereof on the day of their harvest, ) [6:141]

It could be that what is meant here by Zakaah is purification of the soul from Shirk and filth, as in the Ayah:(Indeed he succeeds who purifies himself (Zakkaha). And indeed he fails who corrupts himself.) [91:9-10]

It could be that both meanings are intended, purification of the soul and of one's wealth, because that is part of the purification of the soul, and the true believer is one who pays attention to both matters. And Allah knows best.

(And those who guard their private parts. Except from their wives and their right hand possessions, for then, they are free from blame. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors.)

It means, those who protect their private parts from unlawful actions and do not do that which Allah has forbidden; fornication and homosexuality, and do not approach anyone except the wives whom Allah has made permissible for them or their right hand possessions from the captives.

One who seeks what Allah has made permissible for him is not to be blamed and there is no sin on him.

Allah says: (they are free from blame. But whoever seeks beyond that) meaning, other than a wife or slave girl, (then those are the transgressors.) meaning , aggressors.

(Those who are faithfully true to their Amaanaat and to their covenants)

When they are entrusted with something, they do not betray that trust, but they fulfill it, and when they make a promise or make a pledge, they are true to their word.

This is not like the hypocrites about whom the Messenger of Allah said: (The signs of the hypocrite are three: when he speaks he lies, when he makes a promise he breaks it, and when he is entrusted with something he betrays that trust.) al Bukhaari, Muslim

(And those who strictly guard their Salawaat.)

It means, they persistently offer their prayers at their appointed times, as Ibn Mas`ud said: "I asked the Messenger of Allah , `O Messenger of Allah, which deed is most beloved to Allah' He said, (Prayer at the appointed time.) I said, `Then what' He said,(Kindness to one's parents. ) I said, `Then what' He said,(Jihad in the way of Allah.)

It was recorded in the Two Sahih Qatadah said: "At the fixed times, with the proper bowing and prostration."

Allah begins and ends this list of praiseworthy qualities with Salaah, which is indicative of its virtue, as the Prophet said: (Adhere to righteousness, you will never be able encompass it all. Know that the best of your deeds is Salaah. None will preserve his Wuddu' except the believer.)

Having described them with these praiseworthy characteristics and righteous deeds, Allah then says:

(These are indeed the heirs. Who shall inherit Firdaws. They shall dwell therein forever.)

It was recorded in the Two Sahih that the Messenger of Allah said: (If you ask Allah for Paradise, then ask him for Al Firdaws, for it is the highest part of Paradise, in the middle of Paradise, and from it spring the rivers of Paradise, and above it is the (Mighty) Throne of the Most Merciful.)

Ibn Abi Hatim recorded that Abu Hurayrah said, "The Messenger of Allah said:(There is not one among you who does not have two homes, a home in Paradise and a home in Hell. If he dies and enters Hell, the people of Paradise will inherit his home, and this is what Allah said: (These are indeed the heirs.)

Ibn Jurayj narrated from Layth from Mujahid:(These are indeed the heirs.) "The believers will inherit the homes of the disbelievers because they were created to worship Allah Alone with no partner or associate. So when these believers did what was enjoined on them of worship, and the disbelievers neglected to do that which they were commanded to do and for which they had been created, the believers gained the share that they would have been given if they had obeyed their Lord. Indeed, they will be given more than that as well."

This is what was reported in Sahih Muslim from Abu Burdah, from his father, from the Prophet who said: (Some of the Muslims will come on the Day of Resurrection with sins like mountains, but Allah will forgive them and put (their burden of sin) on the Jews and Christians.)

According to another version: the Messenger of Allah said: ("When the Day of Resurrection comes, Allah will appoint for every Muslim a Jew or Christian, and it will be said, "This is your ransom from the Fire.")

Umar bin `Abd Al`Aziz asked Abu Burdah to swear by Allah besides Whom there is no other God, three times, that his father told him that from the Prophet , and he swore that oath. I say: this aaya is like Allah's saying: (Such is the Paradise which We shall give as an inheritance to those of Our servants who have had Taqwa.) [19:63] (This is the Paradise which you have been made to inherit because of your deeds which you used to do.) [43:72]

The Muslim Woman: Her Status in the Ummah
By Shaykh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez Ibn Baaz (d.1420H) rahimahullah [1]

The status of the Muslim woman in Islaam is a very noble and lofty one, and her effect is very great in the life of every Muslim. Indeed the Muslim woman is the initial teacher in building a righteous society, providing she follows the guidance from the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of the Messenger (salla Allahu ‘alayhi wasallam). Since adherence to the Qur`aan and the Sunnah distances every Muslim – male or female – from being misguided in any matter. The misguidance that the various nations suffer from, and their being deviated does not come about except by being far away from the path of Allaah – the Most Perfect, the Most High – and from what His Prophets and Messngers - may Allah’s Peace and Prayers be upon them all – came with. The Prophet (salla Allahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said:

"I am leaving behind you two matters, you will not go astray as long as you cling to them both, the Book of Allah and my Sunnah." [2]

The great importance of the Muslim woman’s role – whether as wife, sister, or daughter, and the rights that are due to her and the rights that are due from her – have been explained in the noble Qur`aan, and further detailed of this have been explained in the purified Sunnah.

The secret of her importance lies in the tremendous burden and responsibility that is placed upon her, and the difficulties she has to shoulder – responsibilities and difficilties some of which not even a man bears. This is why from the most important obligations upon a person is to show gratitude to the mother, and kindness and good companionship with her. And in this matter, she is to be given precedence over and above the father. Allah the Exalted says:

"And We have enjoined upon man to be good and dutiful to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness upon weakness and hardship upon hardship, and his weaning is in two years. Show gratitude and thanks to Me and to your parents. Unto Me is the final destination." [Soorah Loqmaan:14]

Allah the Exalted said:

"And We have enjoined upon man to be dutiful and kind to his parents. His mother bears him with hardship, and she brings him forth with hardship. And the bearing and weaning of him is thirty months." [Sooratul Ahqaaf:15]

A man came to the Messenger of Allah (salla Allahu ‘alayhi wasallam) and said: "O Messenger of Allah! Who from amongst mankind warrents the best companionship from me?" He replied:

"Your mother."

The man asked, "Then who?" So he replied:

"Your mother."

The man then asked, "Then who?" So the Prophet replied again:

"Your mother."

Then the man asked, "Then who?" So he replied:

"Your father." [3]

So this necessitates that the mother is given three times the likes of kindness and good treatment than the father.

As regards the wife, then her status and her effect in making the soul tranquil and serene has been clearly shown in the noble aayah (statement of Allah), in His – the Exalted – saying:

"And from His signs is this: That He created for you wives amongst yourselves, so that you may find serentiy and tranquility in them. And He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in this are signs for those who reflect." [Sooratur Room:21]

Al Haafidh Ibn Katheer (d.774H) – rahimahullah – said whilst explaining the terms muwaddah and rahmah which occur in the above aayah:

"Al muwaddah means love and affection and ar rahmah means compassion and pity – since a man takes a woman either due to his love for her, or because of compassion and pity for her; by giving to her a child from himself…" [4]

And the unique stance that the Prophet’s (salla Allahu ‘alayhi wasallam) wife Khadeejah – radiyallahu ‘anhaa – took, had a huge effect in calming and reassuring the Messenger of Allah (salla Allahu ‘alayhi wasallam), when the angel Jibreel (‘alayhis salaam) first came to the cave of Hiraa. So the Prophet (salla Allahu ‘alayhi wasallam) returned to Khadeejah (radiyallahu ‘anhaa) with the first Revelation and with his heart beating and trembling severely, and he said to her:

"Cover me! Cover me!"

So she covered him until his fear was over, after which he told Khadeejah (radiyallahu ‘anhaa) everything that happened and said:

"I fear that something may happen to me."

So she said to him:

"Never! By Allah! Allah will never disgrace you. You keep good ties with the relations, you help the poor and the destitute, you serve your guests generously and assist those who have been afflicted with calamities." [5]

And do not forget about ‘Aa`ishah (radiyallahu ‘anhaa) and her great effect. Since even the great Companions used to take the knowledge of Hadeeth from her, and many of the Sahaabiyaat (female Companions) learned the various rulings pertaining to women’s issues from her.

And I have no doubt that my mother – may Allah shower His mercy upon her – had a tremendous effect upon me, in encouraging me to study; and she assisted me in it. May Allah greatly increase her reward and reward her with the best of rewards for what she did for me.

And there is no doubt also, that the house in which there is kindness, gentleness, love and care, along with the correct Islaamic tarbiyah (education and cultivation) will greatly effect the man. So he will become – if Allah wills – successful in his affairs and in any matter – whether it be seeking knowledge, trading, earning a living, or other than this. So it is Allah alone that I ask to grant success and to guide us all to that which He loves and is pleased with. And may the Prayers and Peace of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon his Family, his Companions and his followers.

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Footnotes:

[1] He is the exemplary Scholar: Abu ‘Abdullah, ‘Abdul ‘Azeez Ibn ‘Abdullah Ibn Baaz. He was born in the city of Riyaadh on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah in the year 1330H. He began seeking knowledge by first memorizing the Qur`aan before reaching the age of puberty. After this, He began to study noble sciences such as ‘Aqeedah (beliefs), Fiqh (Islaamic Jurisprudence), Hadeeth (Prophetic Narrations), Usoolul-Fiqh (fundamentals of jurisprudence), Faraa`id (Laws of inheritance), Nahw (Grammar) and Sarf (morphology) – even though the Shaykh became permanently blind at the age of nineteen. He studied these sciences under some of the most prominent scholars of Riyaadh and Makkah of his time, including Shaykh Muhammad Ibn ‘Abdul Lateef Ibn ‘Abdur Rahmaan Ibn Hasan and also the former Grand Muftee and noble scholar, Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Ibraaheem – whom he studied under for ten years. He lived to be eighty-nine years old, he was mild, generous and forbearing in nature, yet firm, whilst wise while speaking the truth. He was a zaahid (one who abstains) with respect to this world and he was one of the foremost scholars of Ahlu Sunnah wal Jamaa’ah in his age. The noble Shaykh – by Allah’s grace – devoted his whole life to Islaam and it’s people, authoring many books and booklets, teaching and serving the masses, along with being very active in the field of Da’wah. May Allah forgive our noble father and Shaykh.

This article was a response to a particular question concerning the position and status of Muslim women and has been taken from his Majmoo’ul Fataawaa wa Maqaalaatil Mutanawwi`ah (3/348-350).

[2] Hasan: Related by Maalik in al Muwattaa (2/899) and al Haakim (1/93), from Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiyallahu ‘anhu). It was authenticated by Shaykh al Albaanee in as Saheehah (no. 1871).

[3] Related by al Bukhaaree (no. 5971) and Muslim (7/2), from Abu Hurayrah (radiyallahu ‘anh).

[4] Tafseer Qur`aanil A’dtheem (3/439) of al Haafidh Ibn Katheer.

[5] Related by al Bukhaaree (1/22) and Muslim (1/139), from the lengthy narration of ‘Aa`ishah (radiyallahu ‘anhaa).

The Remembrance of Allah - ذكر الله

by Imaam al Madinah al Munawwarah 'Ali 'AbdurRahmaan al Hudhaifi

http://www.islaam.net/

Safar 10, 1422 (May 4, 2001)

All praise is due to Allah. I testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, his household and companions.

Dear Muslims! Fear Allah and obey Him. Beware of His wrath and retribution, for His punishment is severe and none of your actions or deeds are hidden from Him.

Allah says:

“O you who believe! Remember Allah with much remembrance.” (Al Ahzaab:41).

Fellow Muslims! Allah enjoins you to remember Him, commands you to be consistent in your remembrance, makes His remembrance a means to achieve His pleasure, and promises a great reward and safety from punishment for those who remember Him. He says:

“And the men and women who remember Allah much (with their hearts and tongues), Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise).”(Al Ahzaab:35).

Remembrance of Allah, though easy to do is nevertheless heavy on the scale (of one’s good deeds). The Prophet of Guidance told us that remembrance of Allah is the best and the purest deed. Aboo Dardaa narrated that the Messenger of Allah said:

“Shall I tell you of the best and purest of your deeds before your King, the one that elevates your position the most; that is better for you than meeting your enemies whose necks you strike and they also strike your necks?” The companions said, “O Yes.” The Prophet then said, “Remembrance of Allaah, the Exalted.” (Ahmad, Tirmidhee and others).

The meaning of remembrance of Allah is to Praise Him with His names and perfect attributes, to supplicate to Him and to deem Him free from all that does not benefit His greatness. Remembrance of Allah can be through physical acts of worship, or it can be with the tongue or in the heart. The best Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) is the one done with the body, tongue and heart; like prayer, hajj and jihad (fighting in the cause of Allah) followed by the one done with the tongue and heart alone. The best oral act of remembrance is recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, for the Qur’an is the life of the hearts and minds and the guide to Allah’s pleasure and the blissful Paradise. It is also the protection against the accursed shaytan. Recitation of it is an act of worship; reflecting on its meanings is victory and happiness. Ibn Mas’ood narrated that the Prophet said:

“Whoever reads a letter of the Book of Allah will have a good reward for that and ten more like it. I do not say that Alif-Lam-Mim is one letter, rather that Alif is a letter, Lam is a letter and Meem is a letter.” (At-Tirmidhee).

Aboo Saeed Al-Khudree said:

“The Messenger of Allah said: ‘Our Lord, the Exalted says: “Whoever is distracted by the recitation of the Qur’an from doing Dhikr and asking me (of his needs), I shall give him what is better than what I give those who ask me. The superiority of Allah’s Word (Qur’an) over other words is like the superiority of Allah over His creatures.” (At-Tirmidhee).

Dear Brothers! The form of your Dhikr should be in accordance with what is authentically reported from the Messenger of Allah, like saying Subhaan Allah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdu Lillah (Praise be to Allah), Laa Ilaaha Illa Allah (there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah), Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest), Laa Hawla wa laa Quwwata Illaa Billahil 'Aliyyil 'Atheem (there is no power and no strength except with Allah, the Most High, the Most Great), and the like.

The Messenger of Allaah said:

“The most beloved words to Allaah are four: ‘Subhaan Allah, Al Hamdu Lillah, Laa Illaaha Illa Allah and Allahu Akbar.’ It does not matter with which one you start, nor in what order you say them.” (Muslim).

He also said:

“They (those four statements) are the best word after the Qur’an and they are from the Qur’an.” (Ahmad).

Aboo Moosa Al-Ash’aree narrated that the Messenger of Allah said:

“Say Laa Hawla Wa Laa Quwwata illa Billah, for it is one of the treasures of Paradise.” (Bukhaaree and Muslim).

Further, invoking blessings and peace upon the Prophet is also a form of Dhikr but it should be noted that acts of remembrance of Allah should be done according to the authentically reported forms and not in innovative forms. 'Aa’isha narrated that the Messenger of Allah said:

“Whoever performs a deed upon which there is no command from us will have it rejected.” (Muslim)

Brothers in faith! There are some Dhikr that are restricted to certain periods like the ones said after the five obligatory prayers, the ones said in the morning and the evening and the ones that have specific reasons. Also, there are some Dhikr that can be made any time. A Muslim should therefore remember Allah as frequently as possible in all conditions he may be.

Mu'aadh bin Jabal narrated that the Messenger of Allah said:

“The Son of Aadam (i.e. man) does not do a deed that saves him from the punishment of Allah more than remembrance of Allaah.” The companions said, “Even Jihad in the way of Allah?” He replied, “Even Jihad in the way of Allah except in the case of one who fights with his sword until it is broken.” (Ibn Abee Shaybah).

It is recommended for a Muslim to be constantly reciting Dhikr in its authentically reported forms. Juwayriyah (a mother of the faithful) narrated that:

The Messenger of Allah went out of her apartment after performing Fajr prayer while she was making Tasbeeh (i.e. Subhaan Allah etc.) then came back after performing Duhaa supererogatory prayer and still found her sitting. He then said, “Are you still in the same position in which I left you?” She answered, “Yes.” He said, “Since I left you I have said four statements three times; if weighed against all that you have been saying today, it will outweigh it. They are, “ Subhan Allah Wa BiHamdihi, ‘Adada Khalqihi, Warida Nafsihi, Wa Zinata ‘Arshihi, Wa Midaada Kalimaatihi.” (Muslim).

Aboo Umaamah narrated that the Messenger of Allah told him:

“Shall I inform you of what is more and better than remembering Allah in the night and day? You say, ‘Subhan Allah Wa BiHamdihi, ‘Adada Maa Khalaqa, Subhan Allah mil’a maa Khalaqa fissSamaa’, Wa Subhan Allah ‘adada maa Ahsaa Kitaabuh Wa Subhan Allah ‘adada maa Ahsaa Kitaabuh Wa Subhaan Allah ‘adada Kulli Shay’in, wa Subhaan Allah Mil’a Kulli Shay’in, Wal Hamduliilaahi Mil’a Dhaalik.’

Meaning,

“Glory be to Allah, as much as the number of all that He created; glory be to Allah, as much as His creatures can fill; glory be to Allah as much as the number of His creatures in heaven; glory be to Allah as much as his Book can keep count of; glory be to Allaah as much as the reckoning of His Book can fill; glory be to Allah as much as the number of all things; glory be to Allah as much as all things can fill; praise be to Allah in the like manner.”

Dear Brother! Know that however much you remember Allah and praise Him, you cannot enumerate His praise and cannot praise Him as is due. Also remember that all that is in the heavens and the earth do remember Him and glorify Him and there is nothing but glorifies His praise.

“But you understand not their glorification. Truly, He is ever-forebearing, Oft-forgiving.”(Al Israa’:44).

He also says,

“And remember your Lord by your tongue and within yourself, humbly and with fear, without loudness in words, in the morning and in the afternoon and be not of those who are neglectful.” (Al A’raaf:205).


Fellow Muslims! Fear Allah and do not be misled by your whims. Know that Allah gives in recompense for remembering Him inestimable rewards in this world and the next.

Among the rewards of the remembrance of Allah is what He says in this verse:

“Remember Me (by praying, glorifying, etc.) I will remember you, and be grateful to me (for my countless favours on you) and never be ungrateful to me.” (Al Baqarah: 152).

Further, the Messenger of Allah said:

“Allah says:‘Indeed I am as my servant presumes Me to be, and I am with him when he remembers Me. So if he remembers Me to himself, I remember him to Myself, and if he remembers Me amongst a company, I remember him among a company greater than it.” (Al Bukhari & Muslim).

Of the rewards of the remembrance of Allah is peace of mind. Allah says:

“Those who believe and whose hearts find rest in the remembrance of Allah. Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Ar Ra’d:28).

Among the rewards of remembrance of Allah also is that it makes one love Allah, increases him in faith, makes his affairs easy, and protects him from tricks and evil doings of shaytan. The Prophet said:

“Allah commanded Yahya son of Zakariah to enjoin five words on the children of Israel, one of which was the remembrance of Allah. A parable of that is like a man who is being hotly pursued by the enemy, who then enters a well-fortified enclave and thereby protects himself from them. A servant does not protect himself against shaytan except with the remembrance of Allah.” (At-Tirmidhee).

It is also part of the rewards of remembrance of Allah that it erases one’s sins and removes distress.

Bismillah

بِسمَ اللَّهِ الرَّحمَن الرَّحِيم

Every good action or deed should be started with reciting Bismillah

Below are quoted some Authentic Traditions of the Prophet Mohammad (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) regarding Bismillah - In the name of Allah:

Saying Bismillah Is Recommended Before Eating:

The Prophet (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

"Say Bismillah, eat with your right hand and eat what is in front of you."

[Bukhari 7/88, Muslim 2/207, Ahmad 17/92, Muwatta Malik 10/32 and Ibn Majah 1/557]

When Drinking Water:

Ibn Abbas (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Messenger of Allah (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

"Do not drink in one gulp like a camel, but in two or three [Gulps]. Mention the Name of Allah when you start drinking and praise Him after you have finished [Drinking]."

[Fath al-Bari 12/197 and Al-Trimidhi]

At The Beginning Of Ablution:

The Prophet (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

"Make Wudu [Ablution] in the name of Allah."

[An-Nasai 1/11 and Ibn Khuzaimah 1/84]

Before Having Sexual Intercourse with one's wife:

The Prophet (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

"If anyone of you, when having sexual intercourse with his wife, says: In the name of Allah. O Allah! Protect us from Satan and also protect what you grant us [i.e. Coming offspring] from Satan and if it is destined that they should have a child, then Satan willnever be able to harm him."

[Sahih Bukhari 7/94 and Sahih Muslim 2/1058]


When Entering The House:

Jabir (radiAllahu 3anh) said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) saying:

"If a person mentions the Name of Allah upon entering his house or eating, Satan says, addressing his followers: `You will find no where to spend the night and no dinner.' But if he enters without mentioning the Name of Allah, Satan says [To his followers]; 'You have found [A place] to spend the night in, and if he does not mention the Name of Allah at the time of eating, Satan says: `You have found [A place] to spend the night in as well as food."

[Sahih Muslim 2/206]

When Leaving The House:

The Messenger Of Allah (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

"If anyone of you when leaving the house says In the name of Allah, I trust in Allah, there is no power and might except from Allah. Your needs shall be fulfilled, you shall be saved from difficulties and hardships. Shaitaan hearing these words leaves him."

[Al-Trimidhi 2/493]

When Slaughtering An Animal:

Anas (radiAllahu 3anh) reported that Allah's Messenger (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) sacrificed two horned rams of white color with black markings over them. He also stated:

I saw him sacrificing them with his own hand and saw him placing his foot on their sides, and recited in the name of Allah and Glorified Him [Bismillah Allahu Akbar]

[Sahih al-Bukhari 7/133, Muslim 2/181, Abu Dawud 3/230, An-Nasai 7/231, Al-Trimidhi 5/76, Ibn Majah 2120]

When Fighting For The Cause Of Allah:

The Messenger of Allah (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

"Fight in the name of Allah and in the way of Allah." [Sahih Muslim 2/69]

Recommended Because It Causes Humiliation To The Shaitan:

Abul Malih (radiAllahu 3anh) said: I was riding on a mount behind the Prophet (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam). It stumbled. Thereupon I said: May the devil perish! He said:

Do not say: May the devil perish! For if you say that, he will swell so much so that he will be like a house, and say: By my power. But say Bismillah for when you say that, he will diminish so much so that he will be like a fly.

[An-Nasai 6/142, Ahmad 5/59 and Abu Dawud 4946]

Recommended When Night Falls:

Allah's Apostle (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

"When night falls stop your children from going out, for the devils spread out at that time. But when an hour of the night has passed, release them and close the doors and mention Allah's Name, for Satan does not open a closed door. Tie the mouth of your water-skin and mention Allah's Name; cover your containers and utensils and mention Allah's Name. Cover them even by placing something across it, and extinguish your lamps."

[Sahih al-Bukhari 7/527 and Abu Dawud 3722]

When Placing The Body Of The Deceased In The Grave:

The Prophet of Allah (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

"When you are lowering the deceased in the grave you should say In the name of Allah and in accordance to the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah."

[Ahmad 8/58 and Al-Hakim 1/366]

The Virtues Of Saying Bismillah:

Uthman bin Abu al-As Al-Thaqafi (radiAllahu 3anh) reported that he made a complaint of pain to Allah's Messenger (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) that he felt in his body at the time he had become Muslim. Thereupon Allah's Messenger (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said:

Place your hand at the place where you feel pain in your body and say in the name of Allah three times and seven times I seek refuge with Allah and with His Power from the evil that I find and that I fear. [Muslim 2/280]

When Writing A Letter Bismillah Should Also Be Written:

Abu Sufyan (radiAllahu 3anh) said that the contents of the letter were as follows:

"In the name of Allah the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, [This letter is] from Mohammad the slave of Allah and His Apostle to Heraclius the ruler of Byzantine. Peace be upon him, who follows the right path. Furthermore I invite you to Islam, and if you become a Muslim you will be safe, and Allah will double your reward, and if you reject this invitation of Islam you will be committing a sin by misguiding your peasants." [Bukhari 4/191, Muslim 2/91, Al-Trimidhi 7/500]

[Queen Sheba] said: "O chief! Surely an honorable letter has been delivered to me Surely it is from Sulaiman, and surely it is in the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful." [Sorah Al-Naml, Ayaat 29-30]

When is the “hour of response” on Friday?

There are two opinions concerning the hour of response on Friday which are likely to be correct:

The first is that it lasts from after ‘Asr until the sun sets, for those who sit and wait for Maghrib, whether that is in the mosque or at home, making du’aa’ to their Lord, whether they are men or women; whoever does that is more deserving of seeing a response to his or her du’aa’. But men should not pray Maghrib or any other prayer at home unless they have a legitimate shar’i excuse, as is well known from the evidence of sharee’ah.

The second is that it lasts from the time when the imaam sits on the minbar to deliver the khutbah on Friday until he finishes the prayer. Du’aa’ at either of these times is deserving of being answered.

These two times are more likely to be the times of response on Friday, because of the saheeh ahaadeeth which indicate that. The hour of response may also be sought at other times of the day. And the bounty of Allah is great.

Among the moments when response may come to a du’aa’ in all prayers, obligatory and naafil alike, is the moment of sujood (prostration), because the Prophet (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said: “The closest that a person may be to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so say a great deal of du’aa’ in sujood.” (Narrated by Muslim in his Saheeh from the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him), in al-Salaah, 482). And Muslim (rahimuhullah) narrated in his Saheeh from Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiallahu 3anhumaa) that the Prophet (salla Allahu 3alaihi wasallam) said: “As for rukoo’ (bowing), proclaim the greatness of your Lord in rukoo’ and strive in du’aa’, for you will be more deserving of being responded to.” (Muslim, al-Salaah, 479).

Shaykh Ibn Baaz, Majallat al-Buhooth, issue no. 34, p. 142