This man babs787, is a true believer in his Creator. This shows that iddayah comes to peoples breast, by the Mercy of Allah. The best out of islam are always the best in Islam. It shows that Iman is not based on how long you have been practicing Islam. It is your piety and God consciousness of the heart that indicate the gradiation of believe.

Here in America, the reverts to Islam are the better in worship than the people born into islamic family, who aften take this religion of Success for granted! May Allah continue to increase you in faitha nd knowledge my brother Babs. May Allah indeed increase all of us in faith and knowledge. Amiin.

True Talk

Bro Olabowale,

Babs Jazakallahu Khair

What does the Quran say about the future of the earth.?
Considering the belief that all Muslims will eventually go to heaven, Will the terrible conditions we now witness on earth continue ad infinitum?


The world we now live in, is not eternal. According to Islamic traditions, near the end of the world, there would be lot of ills. Famine, unusual change of weather, floods etc. Rich will get richer and would not pay heed to the poor. Then there would come an imposter, Dajjal. He would first proclaim himself as kng, then a god. It is said that he'd have one-eye in the middle of his forehead (but I don't know if Dajjal exists physically or is a symbolism). But according to most of the traditions, he's a physical being who is living some place and would appear only after all of the signs have appeared.

Even the staunchest of Muslims would dread Dajjal coz he'd have power over life n death, over rivers and seas and ever rains. God would test His TRUE followers during that period. Only the Muslims pure enough at the core of their hearts would dare to defy Dajjal's authority. And they would raise their own army, everyone one of them staunch believer and brave to the core.

The hints given to the Muslims about the geographic location of this army is believed to be what is the West side of Pakistan, East side of Afghanistan and Iran, and ex-USSR Muslim states (especially Chechnya). The army would comprise of Muslims of different nations, and their symbol would be a black flag that'd have the first Kalima (declaration to the belief of Oneness of God and Muhammad as being His prophet). Thus, they'd be known as Black-Flag Bearer. After conquering all of the countries that come their way, they'd be relatively very few in number. In other words, there would be only two nations left at that time, one Muslims and the other non-Muslims. All of the non-Muslims from all races and religions would combine their strengths to finsish off those leftover Muslims. In their final battle, they'd be offering their Fajar prayers (the morning prayers that's offered before sunrise) and in their hearts n minds the Black-Flag Bearer would know that today's the Final Day, all of the non-Muslim forces would be gathering outside Majid Aqsa (in Jerusalem) and would be waiting for the Muslims to start their offensive.

At that time, Jesus would appear before them. He'd be leading the Muslims thereafter. The Dajjal would runaway seeing Jesus, and would be killed at the gates of Lydh by the hands of Jesus.

After that episode, the entire population would convert to Islam. And gradually the world would have fewer and fewer religious scholars (no non-Muslims, therefore no need for research on religious preachings, therefore lack of religious people). And the time would come when the Muslims would drift away from Islam as well, and finally a person who's described as a short man with lean legs and belonging to some African country would invade the Holy Ka'aba at Makkah. After that, a chain of disasters would come and the Death Trumpet (I don't know that proper name of that instrument in English, it's known as Soor in Arabic) would be blowed by Angel Israafeel. All of the humanity would die with the blow of that trumpet. The 2nd blowing of that trumpet would awaken the dead, for the Doomsday accountability.

A person always has the chance of asking forgiveness for his sins. Seeking forgiveness (Toba) has been emphasized upon in Islam. but before the end of the world, one day the sun would rise from the West, instead of the East. That would mark the day after which no forgiving of sins would be granted. After that, the sun would rise from the East as usual, but the life and the thoughts of future to come would be dreadful to every Muslim, as there would be no forgiveness of sins after that day.

Major signs of Doomsday.
1. Famine would take place.
2. There would erupt a mountain of black gold from the beds of River Euphrates (in Iraq).
3. Women would ride horses (or be in authority).
4. Children would not respect their parents.
5. The most wicked of them all would be most praised. Not out of respect but out of fear.
6. Adultery and rape would be rampant.
7. Food will be scarce.
8. The value of silver would rise comparatively than gold.
9. Whole of the world would be trapped in Usury system.
10. There would be a lot of Muslims, but not following true Islam.
11. There would be an abundance of information but lack of wisdom.
12. People would have more space for their friends, than their parents.
13. People would love wine and women, and would merily eat pork.

Yes, all of these signs have been foretold not now, but 1400 years ago by a shepherd in Arabia who couldn't read or write, namely Muhammad. The Quran says that the one who believes that Allah is One, and Muhammad is His final messenger (I'm not saying the only messenger, but final messenger. Abraham, Jesus, Jacob, Joseph, David all of them were messengers of Allah) is guaranteed paradise in the end.


Very soul touching answer there, I hope we learn something from that.

Islam and Global Warming.


Why worry about icecaps,we know the world is going to end and there will be a day of judgement.

Why recycle ?allah has given us plentiful resources on this planet.

Why worry bout global warming.what is written is written , it is out of our control, it is qada



Answer

Islam discourages such fatalist attitudes. Although everything is in the control of Allah, we still have our responsibilities.

One day Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, noticed a Bedouin leaving his camel without tying it. He asked the Bedouin, "Why don't you tie down your camel?" The Bedouin answered, "I put my trust in Allah." The Prophet then said, "Tie your camel first, then put your trust in Allah." (Tirmidhi).

This teaches us to work hard and be optimistic, we shouldn't say because its our qadar to be rich we would not work again, Who knows what the Qadar says.

As all Muslims should know, the Islamic greeting is ‘Assalamu Alaykum Wa Rahmatullaahi wa barakato’ (peace and mercy and blessings of God be upon you). For short, most Muslims say ‘Assalamu Alaykum’ (peace be upon you), then the Muslim replies back and says ‘wa alaykum assalam’ (and peace be upon you also).


However, how does a Muslim reply back to a non-Muslim who greets him? How does a Muslim greet a non-Muslim? Who greets whom first? This article will try to shed some light on all these matters.

Here is a Quranic verse that talks about greeting…

Surah 4:86

When ye are greeted with a greeting, greet ye with a better than it or return it. Lo! Allah taketh count of all things.


Enjoy

good people of GOD

@ olabowale

This man babs787, is a true believer in his Creator. This shows that iddayah comes to peoples breast, by the Mercy of Allah. The best out of islam are always the best in Islam. It shows that Iman is not based on how long you have been practicing Islam. It is your piety and God consciousness of the heart that indicate the gradiation of believe.

Here in America, the reverts to Islam are the better in worship than the people born into islamic family, who aften take this religion of Success for granted! May Allah continue to increase you in faitha nd knowledge my brother Babs. May Allah indeed increase all of us in faith and knowledge. Amiin.

Thank you very much and may Allah increases your knowledge and give you sound health and many more years so that we will continue to learn from you.

Honestly, you have been a father to all muslims here and I for one has learnt and still learning from you. You have given me much courage and make my Iman strong through your posts. A friend posted the link to me to check joke section but went to religion section and read all lies being said about Allah, Islam and my dear prophet Muhammad and having had christianity background decided to tackle their falsehood.

May Allah continue to be with you sir and more power to your elbow.





@ mdsocks

True Talk

Bro Olabowale,

Babs Jazakallahu Khair

Same to you my brother. You and the rest of Muslims here and outside Nairaland have been my pillar that has been provng me support.

May Allah bless you all

AMIN ,


AND YOU TO BABS.

@ All

May the Almighty increase our knowledge.

Lets keep firm n continue the spread of Allah's Words, let watever any intruder will say not discourage us, we r 4 ALLAH n so it shall continue 2 be.

@ All

May the Almighty increase our knowledge.

Amin

Lets keep firm n continue the spread of Allah's Words,

Insha Allah, Dawah continues

let watever any intruder will say not discourage us, we r 4 ALLAH n so it shall continue 2 be.

Never will they be able to discourage us but rather increase our faith in Islam because truth stands from falsehood except those that want to continue deceiving themselves. Allah re-kindle His light each time they try to extinguish it.

Maa Salam

hi check this thread interesting https://www.nairaland.com/nigeria/topic-107465.0.html

@luvus

Insert Quote
hi check this thread interesting https://www.nairaland.com/nigeria/topic-107465.0.html

Why not sit for a debate rather than jumping from thread to thread. You can go there and have a look please

babs787:

Why not sit for a debate rather than jumping from thread to thread. You can go there and have a look please

The same way that you and your Muslim brethren jump from thread to thread.

Do Show mercy and and act justly towards people, leave that which does not concern you and dont take sides, do not insult and abuse, backbite or plot and plan to destroy peoples good reputation without facts and commit oppression against others, since they may raise their hands up to Allah swt and make a dua against you which may come true, and the pain and anguish you caused others will fall upon you and your loved ones.

If only I had a pound for every time I saw the results of duas, especially those made by people being oppressed I would be very rich indeed.


Hadith number 1280:
Narrated Jabir: Allah's Messenger salla allahu alayhe wasalam said: "Beware of oppression, for oppression will turn into excessive darkness on the Day of Resurrection; and beware of niggardliness, for niggardliness destroyed your predecessors." (Muslim)
Definition: The term "thulm" in Arabic means oppression. The Islamic definition of the word is manifold. They include:
a. transgressing the boundaries on oneself;
b. transgressing the boundaries of others;
c. claiming that which does not belong to oneself;
d. denying others their rights.

Dua of the oppressed:
Allah promises to answer the dua of an oppressed person. The Prophet (SalAllahu 'alaihi wassallam) said: "Be afraid of the curse of an oppressed person as there is no screen between his invocation and Allah." (Al-Bukhari)

Allah gives an oath by His Majesty and Honor that anyone who is oppressed and invokes Him, He will grant him victory. There are three people who Allah will never reject their prayer. They are:
1) a just leader
2) a fasting person
3) someone who is oppressed

@mdsocks


Salam. I love that posts and it really touched me.

Jazhakhullah Khairan

Salam

Amin, and you to,


How's everything been long you came online.

Will post something later,

@mdsocks


Salam brother. I am perfectly okay but putting one or two things together .

You will definitely hear from me very soon?

Salam,


hmm, ok

just wanna say hi.

salaam
The Reasons For Fearing Allah

O servants of Allah, there are many reasons why we should fear. The following is a list of a number of them;

* the fear of death before repenting;
* the fear of not living up to one’s repentance and breaking one’s promise;
* the fear of not being able to fulfil Allah’s obligations;
* the fear of losing one’s softness in the heart and its hardening;
* the fear of losing consistency;
* the fear of allowing temptations to dominate;
* the fear of Allah making one’s self responsible for doing goods deeds because of conceit;
* the fear of becoming arrogant and egotistical due to the abundance of bounties;
* the fear of being distracted from Allah by other creation;
* the fear of being led to an evil ending through excessive bounties;
* the fear of being punished early (i.e. in this world);
* the fear of being disgraced at the time of death;
* the fear of being beguiled by the glitter of this world;
* the fear of Allah revealing one’s secret in one’s state of oblivion;
* the fear of being stamped with a bad death at the time of death;
* the fear of the pangs of death;
* the fear of the questions of Munkar and Nakeer in the grave;
* the fear of the punishment of the grave;
* the fear of the horrors of the horizon (at the time of resurrection);
* the fear of the awe during the presentation in front of Allah;
* the fear and the shame of being naked (at the time of resurrection);
* the fear of being questioned about every little thing in life;
* the fear of the bridge (over Hell) and its sharpness; the fear of the fire, its chains and its torment;
* the fear of being deprived of Paradise, the Eternal and everlasting kingdom and abode and
* the fear of being deprived of seeing Allah’s tremendous visage

You are 100% right

"Nowadays, the general trend governing marriages is that the husband views his responsibility towards his family as being a purely materialistic one i.e. to provide financially for them (a house, car, clothes, etc). This attittude is resulting in many marriages breaking down since many husbands are seriously deficient in not spending sufficient time with their families - in communicating and interacting with the family and children. Islam presents a different view of the role of the husband, where he is made responsible for the Islamic nurturing and development of his wife and children as well as their psychological and moral welfare.
In actual fact the time which he spends with his family is not only a responsibility but an act of Ibaadat for which he will be rewarded. Sad to note that despite this, many husbands become restless and seek every opportunity to withdraw from their families by, among other things:
Spending a great deal of time watching sports on TV
Spending many afternoons and evenings 'with the boys' at THE CLUB
Going off at weekends to play golf or fishing.
It also often transpires that if the wife (reluctantly) agrees to an arrangement allowing the husband regular time 'with the boys' the opportunity is used for other purposes e.g. conducting illicit relationships (adultery), etc.
He seeks more and more to be away from his family and should the wife raise even the mildest objection, he usually reacts with a great temper tantrum. Sadly, many wives endure this torture of loneliness and neglect with a great deal of bitterness and sorrow, tolerating their miserable condition because they have no where else to go. How often have you heard a tearful wife say, 'He's got more time for his friends than for me'.
May we all heed to the following warning:
If you are guilty of this type of behaviour then you will have no one but yourself to blame if your marriage hits the rocks. CHANGE NOW! There can never be a limit to the love and attention that you can give to your wife and children. Aside from Deeni activities and basic business activities, devote yourselves towards your wife and children. It will pay excellent dividends.
Allah's Messenger (SAW) said, 'The best of you is he who is best to his family'. (Mishkat)". O MANKIND ALWAYS REMEMBER!!!

mukina2:

O servants of God, there are many reasons why we should fear.

Just a question: what does it mean to 'fear'?

[center] Spiritual Role of Women[/center]

I shall not lose sight of the labor of any of you who labors in My way, be it man or woman; each of you is equal to the other (3:195)

Spiritual equality, responsibility and accountability for both men and women is a well developed theme in the Quran. Understanding the spiritual equality of women in Islam is to understand that equality between men and women in the sight of God is not limited to purely spiritual, religious issues, but is the basis for equality in all temporal aspects of human life.


h the creation of one individual, from whom the human race spread in the world." Yusef Ali translates nafs as "person," and that God created a single person first, Adam, then his mate, Eve. But Asad disagrees with the literal one-person origination and quotes the words of an eminent 19th century scholar: "Muhammad Abduh, however, rejects this interpretation (Manar IV, 323 ff.) and gives, instead, his preference to 'humankind' inasmuch as this term stresses the common origin and brotherhood of the human race, The literal translation of minha as 'out of it' clearly alludes, in conformity with the text, to the biological fact that both sexes have originated from 'one living entity'."According to this verse, God created humankind and its sexual counterpart out of its own kind. The Arabic word referring to mate (zawj) in the above Quranic verse is grammatically neutral and can be applied both to male and female interchangeably.So it is not clear, nor should we conjecture, that Adam was created first, Eve was created out of Adam, or that Eve/woman is innately subservient to Adam/man. The fact that the Quran does not specify one specific sex over the other is proof of gender non-bias and equality.

Putting aside the scholarly discourse, does it really matter who was created first or is this just an issue of semantics? Unfortunately, this issue is often brought up in discussions about gender equality. It is commonly argued that Adam was created first, and that by this gesture God finds the male dominant and superior to the female; however, the wording of the Quran in the above verse (4:1) does not support this claim. So one can't help wonder why some have such determination to prove that Adam came first, other than this point would support a sexist agenda. Interestingly, this point is indeed supported in 1 Timothy of the Bible as a letter of Paul: "A woman must listen in silence and be completely submissive. I do not permit a woman to act as teacher, or in any way to have authority over a man; she must be quiet. For Adam was created first, Eve afterward."And in 1 Peter, women are referred to as the "weaker sex" and are told to be submissive to their husbands.

The comparison to Biblical beliefs is important because according to modern scholar Leila Ahmed in Women and Gender in Islam: "converts [to Islam] brought traditions of thought and custom with them. For instance (to give just one example of how easily and invisibly scriptural assimilation could occur), in its account of the creation of humankind the Quran gives no indication of the order in which the first couple was created, nor does it say that Eve was created from Adam's rib." Ahmed goes on to argue that "in Islamic traditionist literature, however, which was inscribed in the period following the Muslim conquests, Eve, sure enough, is referred to as created from a rib."

It is also frequently argued in Muslim circles that because a woman’s menstruation prevents her from fulfilling her religious duties at all times (such as prayer, fasting) she consequently cannot achieve the same level of faith as men. Therefore, it is argued that she is inferior to men. For a thorough analysis of how a hadith of the Prophet was misunderstood to further this point, please read the chapter on "Sexuality."

Accountability, Independence, and Freedom of Choice

The Quran describes how Adam and Eve were told to avoid a specific tree, which they both approached. For this act of disobedience to God, they were consequently banished from the garden; however, later both repented and were forgiven by God. The Quran does not allude to Eve’s tempting Adam to eat from the tree and being responsible for their downfall, as is described as the "original sin" of the Bible: "it was not Adam who was deceived but the woman. It was she who was led astray and fell into sin." In the Quranic version, both were held accountable and both paid the price for their choices, proving that gender equality is an intrinsic part of Islamic belief. (See Quran 2:30-37)

Women are independent individuals, as exemplified by the fact that all human beings will be accountable for their own intentions and deeds on the Day of Judgment when no human being shall be of the least avail to another human being (82:19). If men were ultimately responsible for women (fathers for their daughters, husbands for their wives, etc.), then this accountability would be solely on men's shoulders to bear all the way until the Day of Judgment. But this is not the case:

And whatever wrong any human being commits rests upon himself alone; and no bearer of burdens shall be made to bear another's burden, For, He it is who has made you inherit the earth, and has raised some of you by degrees above others, so that He might try you by means of what he bestowed upon you (6:164-165)

(In this verse, reference to "degrees" is to individual talents and capabilities, and not gender, race or social status)

Consequently, we cannot be judged according to our own deeds unless we have the freedom of choice to do so. This free choice carries with it the responsibility to make the right choices or paying the consequence for wrong ones, best exemplified by Adam and Eve.

Restrictions on Women

History is replete with examples of traditional societies where women have typically been subject to more restrictions than men, exemplified by lack of opportunities (being able to work or vote) or immobility (needing permission from a male relative to travel or not being able to drive), etc. Although it is mistakingly argued Islam has played a strong role in restricting the freedom of women in Muslim societies, these restrictions are not inherent in the religion of Islam, but rather stem from cultural interpretations. Trying to incorporate 9th century Arab customs to 20th century populations is often inappropriate despite intentions to have a pure society. When looking to Islam for guidance, it’s important to separate what is cultural from the essence of the religious perogative. If an authoritative ruling from Saudi Arabia states that women cannot drive because it would increase possible contact to freely mix with men which can lead to sins, this logic must be judged against Islam and history. It is a fact that the Quran emphasizes modesty for both men and women in order so that we conduct ourselves respectfully. It is also a fact that men and women in the time of the Prophet did interact, so the justification of this law on Islam is bogus. It is unduly harsh and anti-Islamic. It should not serve as an example of how Islam restricts women, as much as it should serve an example of how illogical it is to cut off one’s nose to spite one’s face.

Essentially, the rationale for restricting women is that these restrictions will force them to behave purely, and in order to have a pure society one must put up with fewer civil liberties. The problem with this rationale is that it it pre-empts one’s intentions and actions because it punishes the women who would have followed God’s commands anyway, it doesn’t allow women the opportunity to make choices that God has willed for them to be judged by, and above all, it places the burden of society’s morality on women. Men are not held accountable to the same standards. Eve was not restricted from the tree in order to follow God’s commands by default. She was tested, chose to disobey God and went to the tree on her own free will. She also paid the price. There is nothing wrong with making a wrong decision, for it is better to learn, repent and be stronger for it than never to be challenged at all and remain meek all our lives.

Role as Vicegerents

As equal, independent creations of God, the ultimate role of men and women is to serve as vicegerents on earth, to worship God and follow His commands so that we may return to Him. Both men and women share this responsibility, which constitutes our basic role in life. The Quran outlines the attributes believing men and women should try to live by, but in no specific way are we told in what capacity each individual man and woman should practice these: Say: Behold, my prayer, and all my acts of worship, and my living and my dying are for God alone (6:163). This verse which was addressed to the Prophet but serves as an inspiration to all, reveals that our vicegerency is not only spiritual, but must be consolidated with actual service.

Is vicegerency defined as childbearing for women?

The Quran does not distinguish between a man and a woman's vicegerency. Each sex has the ability to contribute to successive generations, as implied by the term khalifa in the Quran (vicegerent). But that doesn’t limit a woman's vicegerency solely to bear or rear children. There is no judgment made in the Quran against a barren woman, a woman who chooses not to have children, or a young woman who dies before childbearing with one that has many children. Only two of the Prophet's wives even bore children with him, Khadija and Mariya. Other wives such as Hafsa, Aisha and Zaynab did not bear any children, and there is no evidence that they were discounted for this.

In many Muslim cultures today, however, a woman's role and status are often defined and affected by her decision to delay childbearing, the number and sex of the children, or the inability or desire to have children at all. If childbearing is indeed the only role for women, then such cultural preoccupations are understandable; but Islamic teachings always have a way of putting things in balance, reinforcing the significance of motherhood, but not defining roles completely by biology.

Equality in Practice

In the Quran, reference to men and women is through attributes and deeds, by which we will be judged. The most pious of us, or those who follow God's commands, are referred to as believers or mu'mineen (pl.) in the Quran. In many references, in fact, the Quran resonates this equality by eloquently repeating "men and women" with ethical and practical qualities throughout the verses, and even emphasizes this 10 times in the following verse:

Verily, for all men and women who have surrendered themselves unto God, and all believing men and believing women, and all truly devout men and truly devout women, and all men and women who are true to their word, and all men and women who are patient in adversity, and all men and women who humble themselves before God, and all men and women who give in charity, and all self-denying men and self-denying women, and all men and women who are mindful of their chastity, and all men and women who remember God unceasingly: for all of them has God readied forgiveness of sins and a mighty reward. (33:35)

It’s paramount to understand that the Quran equates being a mu'min (sing.) with actual practice, so that it is not enough to just have faith in principle; we must put our faith into practice. The same applies to our belief in the equality of men and women; this principle that's outlined in the Quran must also be put into practice. In reference to the above verse, a modern scholar says that "the implications are far-reaching. Ethical qualities, including those invoked here--charity, chastity, truthfulness, patience, piety - also have political and social dimensions."

Equality and Feminism

The feminist movement of the 60s did much to gain recognition for women’s rights in the United States, and made many strides in women’s leadership and political clout. But what it failed to do was recognize that men and women are different and women shouldn’t be exactly like men because they aren’t men. Islam recognizes this major point, but what many Muslims fail to understand is that just because men and women are different, this doesn’t mean that men are made to do only "A", and women are made to do only "B". There is more overlap in our roles and contributions to society than there is clear-cut specialization. Clearly a stand somewhere between political feminism and specialization of the sexes is a balanced one that considers the natural roles between the sexes and individual talents.

Examples of Women in the Qur'an

The Quran refers to several specific women who triumphed spiritually despite worldly trials: Asiya, the wife of Pharaoh, who was thought to be the same woman who saved of the life of infant Moses; and Mary, the virgin mother of Jesus.

And for those who have attained to faith God has propounded a parable in the story of Pharaoh’s wife as she prayed, "O my Sustainer! Built You for me a mansion in the paradise that is with You, and save me from Pharaoh and his doings, and save me from all evildoing folk!" And Mary the daughter of Imran, who guarded her chastity, whereupon We breathed of Our spirit into that which was in her womb, and who accepted the truth of her Sustainer's words - and thus, of His revelations - and was one of the truly devout. (66:11-12)

Queen Sheba's Example of Spirituality and Leadership

The Queen of Sheba is also mentioned in the Qur'an as a model of wisdom and leadership (27:23-44). The Queen (unnamed in the Quran, but whom historians believe is named Balqis) is described as a prudent and loyal ruler of sun-worshippers who valued material wealth and their own achievements, yet lacked spiritual values. After King Soloman convinces her of their misguided ways, Queen Balqis declares her devotion to God and gladly gives up her material throne for a more valuable spiritual gain: O my Sustainer! I have been sinning against myself by worshipping aught but Thee: but now I have surrendered myself, with Solomon, unto the Sustainer of all the worlds! (27:44)

Simply put, there is no Quranic injunction limiting women in leadership roles. As described in the Quran, the Queen of Sheba was praised for her prudent leadership; she and her people were criticized on the grounds of lacking spiritual guidance, which she later conceded. This constitutes her noteworthy mention in the Quran, that she was able to see beyond her political power and believe in something that may have been "politically incorrect." The Quran did not comment on how the leading of her people was compromised due to her gender or that their lack of spirituality was the fault of a woman. The silence of the Quran on this gender-specific point is an important editorial on its lack of relevance to the issue at hand.

Despite her clear example in the Quran, however, there have been no shortage of scholarly opinions to minimize her significance or to question her role as a leader. "What is most fascinating about the story of Balqis, however, is that it prompted the commentators to get involved in a long, tangled, oversubtle exegesis of the problems which seemed to torture them personally and which the Koran superbly ignored."The well-known Islamic historian of the 10th century, Muhammed Al-Tabari, diminished the importance of her throne even though the Quran refers to it as a "mighty" or "magnificent" throne as it is most commonly translated (27:23); other experts questioned the marital status of the Queen and whether or not she married Solomon; the 10th century historian Mas'udi questioned her origin and wrote that she was born from a human father and a jinn (supernatural) mother; scholars in the Encyclopedia of Islam even question the historical existence of the rule of queens in her land at all.Even if she was legendary, it's important to know that "the Qur'an often employs such legends as a vehicle for allegories expressing certain universal ethical truths, Within the context of the Qur'an, the only thing that is relevant in this respect is the spiritual truth underlying each one of these legends."

What may be the most troubling of all these analyses is the fact that they miss the point entirely about the mention of Balqis in the Quran. Whether she was legendary or real, married or not, of whatever origin, this does not affect the example of her leadership and spirituality the Quran so eloquently presents. "Despite everything, Balqis has held her own in the face of the historians' attempts to reduce or humiliate her."


Women as Leaders of Prayer

A discourse on whether or not women could lead prayer arose in the early years of Islam. It is known that some of the early Khawarij party of "dissidents" who vied for power after the Prophet's death, had women leaders who were also known for leading prayer for them. Ghazala, who led the Khawarij army and defeated the Iraqi tyrant Al-Hajjaj during the Omayyid dynasty, was known to have led prayer. (Leila Ahmed, p. 71) Well-respected scholars such as Muhammad al-Tabari (10th century) and Abi Thawr had taught in their schools of thought early on that women could lead a mixed congregation in prayer; they just disagreed on where she should stand. What is often used to substantiate this opinion is when the Prophet told a woman, Um Waraqa, that she could lead her household in prayer (which included a muezzin, a man who called prayer.) The major schools of jurisprudence agree on the authenticity of this story, but the argument against it is whether it was an exception only for Um Waraqa or a generality applied to all women. Because Um Waraqa was allowed to lead prayer for Ahlu Dariha ("people of their home", it is unclear whether the word dar in Arabic implied location in general or only her specific household. Abi Thawr's argument for women leading prayer also includes hadith about the one who is the most knowledgeable on the Quran should lead prayer, and this may not be limited to only men. Also, after the Prophet's death, Aisha and Um Salama have been known to act as imams (spiritual leaders) for other women in prayer. It is generally understood by most, if not all, Muslim scholars that any acts that are not categorically prohibited in Islam, are actually allowed. The point to be made is not that women should suddenly start taking over leading prayers in mosques around the world, but to show that women were involved in all aspects of practical and religious Muslim life, even possibly leading prayer.

Women's Role in Religious Activities and Friday Prayer

Islam is not a passive, private world of ascetics, but a religion that prides itself on its active community practices, from daily congregational prayers to annual pilgrimages. And community activities in Islam are not by any means exclusively male-oriented. "Women of the first Muslim community attended mosque, took part in religious services on feast days, and listened to Muhammad's discourses. Nor were they passive, docile followers but were active interlocutors in the domain of faith as they were in other matters." The Prophet was attentive to requests of the women believers. When some of his female followers complained that they needed more of Mu hammad's time in instruction in the Quran, he agreed to set aside more time for them. To be assured of their equality in the eyes of God, women (and specifically, the Prophet's wife, Umm Salama) had asked Muhammad why they were not mentioned in the Quran. Soon revelations were revealed discussing the equality of men and women, as well as an entire chapter, surat al-Nisa' ("The Women," chapter 4) devoted to new laws affecting the rights of women and surat al-Ahzab ("The Confederates," chapter 33) which dealt with many personal rules of behavior and relationship between the Prophet and his family, as well as many other verses throughout the Quran.

Attendance at Friday congregational prayer is as much a woman's obligation as it is a man's. Here, again, there is no distinction drawn in the Quran. Of course, women who are exempt from prayer entirely, such as during their menstruation, are exempt from the service. However, this is not a general rule that a woman cannot attend Friday prayer services at all. (For more discussion on women and menstruation, see chapter on Sexuality.) Those who quote a hadith that the best prayer for a woman is in her home, are ignoring the stronger one that instructed men to not prevent women from attending mosques. In addition, if there are restrictions about women attending congregational prayer among men, as some may wrongly contend, then there would not have been clear provisions from a hadith that it is best for men to pray in the front rows and best for women to pray in the last rows, to protect her privacy.

Equality of Women in Combat

"War was one activity in which women of pre-Islamic and early Islamic Arabia participated fully. They were present on the battlefield principally to tend the wounded and to encourage the men, often with song and verse, Some women also fought. In the Muslim battles of Muhammad's lifetime, women functioned in all three roles, on both sides -- even Muhammad's wives." During the Battle of Uhud, women constituted the entire medical corps and tended to the injured. Um Umara was well known for having fought by the Prophet's side and shielded him from enemies. "Her courage and her effectiveness with weapons led Muhammad to observe that she had acquitted herself better than many men." Um Saleem carried a dagger to fight in al-Khondaq; Nusaiba bint Ka'b fought and wounded 12 at Uhud and the Prophet praised her fighting by saying "Never did I look right or left but she was there defending me and fighting before me." Nusaiba also fought in the war of apostasy under Abu Bakr. Um Al Dhouhha bint Mas'ud attended the battle of the Kheiber and the Prophet gave her an equal share of the spoils to the men's; After the death of the Prophet, Um Hakim "single-handedly disposed of seven Byzantine soldiers at the battle of Marj al-Saffar, as well as groups, even battalions, of women participating in the fighting.

These examples prove that the Prophet did not restrict women to merely wait at home for their men to return, but encouraged anyone willing to fight and work for Islam to do so. His army was an army of believers, both men and women. Clearly if women as a whole were not equal or as competent as their male counterparts, they wouldn’t have been given the opportunity to protect the security of their community and the life of the Prophet. Despite the clear examples during the life of the Prophet, soon after his death, women's role in the domain of warfare, was challenged. Many women among the Khawarij (the political "dissident" movement arising in the mid-seventh century) "won renown for their prowess in battle, among them Ghazala, who defeated al-Hajjaj in a duel." (Al-Hajjaj was a tyrannical Iraqi ruler during the Ommayyid dynasty.) This renown was soon overtaken by retreat from warfare after orthodox leaders, who opposed women's participation in battle, "killed and exposed naked the women captured in their battles with the Kharijis [sing. form of Khawarij]--conduct suggesting an attitude toward women on the battlefield far different from that of the first Muslim community. The strategy was effective in leading Khariji women eventually to withdrawing from the theater of war."

Such misguided beliefs, among many, have unfortunately come to shroud the courageous and active participation of women in the early years of Islam, and have contributed to a misunderstanding of our role and status in the Muslim community today.

@Stimulus:

Quote from: mukina2 on February 01, 2008, 07:05 PM
O servants of God, there are many reasons why we should fear.

Just a question: what does it mean to 'fear'?

It means that one is contrived and at the same time conscious of the consequences of the evil action done or about to be done. hence, the result is to be ashamed of it and the fear is etched on the heart and it is felt so much as if it is written on the face. By so doing one will never forgets the evil deed and the effort is therefore taken to consciously avoid its repeat, ever again. But when one fears Allah, one does not run away from Him, because everywhere is within His reach. But one runs to Him for safety and protection, whereby one seeks forgiveness and repentace is offered to him alone. And if He will, He grants repentance and forgiveness, without any spilling or offering of blood, be it animal's or man's.

Now thats true forgiveness that you do not have to buy, or somebody or thing is the conduit for it.

To fear Allah?

This means that we have to remember Allah (SWT) at all times. We have to be righteous and pious and restrain and guard ourselves from evil. We have to be strong in conveying the Truth and should not fear anyone but Allah (SWA). We should see to it that everything we think, we say, and we do is Islamic and in complete submission to the Will of Allah (SWA). We should have Taqwa (fear of Allah), which is a virtuous conduct in the Sight of Allah (SWA):

Abu Hurairah (radhiallahu anhu) narrated that “Allah’s Messenger (SAW) was asked, “Who are the most honorable of the people?” The Prophet (SAW) said, “The most honorable of them in Allah’s Sight are those who keep their duty to Allah and fear Him…” (Bukhari 6/211)

Verily, Allah (SWA) is the Only One Who deserves our fear. We should fear Him Alone as He knows the secrets of our hearts and is well acquainted with all that we do (5:7-. Allah (SWA) says:

“O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and die not except in a state of Islam. And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves, ” (3:102-103)

“It is only the Evil One that suggests to you the fear of his votaries: be not afraid of them but fear Me if you have faith.” (3:175)

“And call in remembrance the favor of Allah unto you, and His Covenant, which He ratified with you, when you said: “We hear and we obey”: and fear Allah, for Allah knows well the secrets of your hearts.” (5:7)

“To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and on earth and to Him is duty due always: then will you fear other than Allah?” (16:52)

“Turn your back in repentance to Him and fear Him: establish regular prayers and be not among those who join gods with Allah.” (30:31)

“O you who believe! Fear Allah, and let every soul look to what (provision) he has sent forth for the morrow. Yea, fear Allah for Allah is well-acquainted with (all) that you do.” (59:18)

We should as much as possible inculcate in our minds and hearts the fear of Allah (SWA). Wherever we are, we have to fear Allah (SWA), do good deeds and deal with people nicely:

Abu Dharr (radhiallahu anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said to him, “Fear Allah wherever you are; if you follow an evil deed with a good one you will obliterate it; and deal with people with a good disposition.” (Tirmidhi 5083)

Ali Bin Abu Talib (radhiallahu anhu) narrated that the last words, which Allah’s Messenger(SAW) spoke were: “Prayer, prayer; fear Allah about those whom your right hands possess.” (Abu Dawud 5137)

"The religion is naseehah." The people asked, "To whom?" The Prophet (SAW) replied, "To Allaah (SWA) and to His Book and to His Messenger and to the leaders of the Muslims and the common folk." [Collected by Bukhari, Muslim]
It lurks in the deepest, darkest parts of ourselves and waits expectantly for opportunities to strike. It attacks our defences of eeman, strategically tears down our walls of taqwa and ruthlessly diminishes our ihsan, or perfection of worship. Struggling against the evil that is inherent in all of us, is a battle that is fought on a daily, even hourly basis, and like most wars it is seldom won alone. Allaah (SWA), through His eternal mercy, has given the believers the most powerful weapon available to assure victory in this constant struggle between good and evil - i.e. each other!
How many of us have looked to our brothers and sisters in Islam and have seen them straying from the path of Allaah (SWA), and have turned our faces away? How many of us have seen our brothers erring and said to ourselves, it is none of my business? Well, it is our business for the Prophet (SAW) has made it our business. In the hadith related by Tamim ad-Dari, the Prophet (SAW) said, "The religion is naseehah." The people asked, "To whom?" The Prophet (SAW) replied, "To Allaah (SWA) and to His Book and to His Messenger and to the leaders of the Muslims and the common folk." [Collected by Bukhari, Muslim]
The Prophet (SAW) has equated the entire religion to giving naseehah, but what exactly is naseehah? Naseehah is an Arabic word that is usually translated to mean "sincerity" or "sincere advice", but actually embodies every type of virtue. As believers, this statement of the Prophet (SAW) must be taken to heart. By learning what naseehah is, we can then act on it and bring about positive changes in ourselves and each other. Naseehah is a wonderful weapon, but like most weapons, if the user does not know how to use it properly, it can cause more harm than good.
How is Naseehah given to Allaah (SWA)?
i) By establishing His worship by offering the obligatory deeds with perfection.
ii) By believing in Him; negating partners from Him; not denying any of His qualities; describing Him with all the qualities of beauty and perfection; and declaring Him to be far removed from faults and qualities of imperfection.
iii) By establishing His obedience and turning away from His disobedience.
How is Naseehah given to the Book of Allaah (SWA)?
i) By firmly believing in the heart that it is the Speech of Allaah (SWA) and His revelation; it is not like the words of the creation; and none of His creation is capable of producing something similar to it.
ii) By respecting it.
iii) By learning and teaching it; reading, reciting, and writing it properly; understanding its meaning; staying within its bounds; acting upon what is contained in it.
How is Naseehah to the Prophet (SAW) given?
i) By affirming his prophethood.
ii) By firmly believing in the heart in everything he came with; obeying him in what he commanded and what he forbade.
iii) By practising his Sunnah by spreading and affirming it; refuting those who cast doubts upon it; spreading its knowledge and its understanding; not arguing about it without knowledge; calling others toward it; teaching it with gentleness; showing its greatness and the greatness of those who adhere to it by attaching oneself to them; and showing it its due respect when studying it.
iv) By loving the Ahl-ul-Bait (his family) and his companions; turning away from those who belittle his family or revile his companions.
Naseehah to the leaders of the Muslims
It is wajib (obligatory) to give naseehah to the leaders of the Muslims, since they have faults and are not protected from committing errors, but who are the leaders of the Muslims?
i) They are the Caliphs and others responsible for the affairs of the Muslims.
ii) They are religious scholars.
As for giving naseehah to the rulers of the Muslims, it includes:
i) Assisting and obeying them in the right.
ii) Reminding them if they err or forget.
iii) Making Jihad with them.
Giving naseehah to the scholars includes:
i) Spreading their knowledge.
ii) Spreading their virtues.
iii) Having good opinion about them.
iv) Accepting their rulings if they give sound proofs for their decisions.
Naseehah to the common Muslims
The following includes giving naseehah to ALL Muslims, be they black, white, Arab or Pakistani; be they sinful, ignorant or heedless. It also includes giving naseehah to Muslims, no matter which organisation or group they belong to or if one likes them or dislikes them.
How is Naseehah given to the common Muslims?
i) By guiding them to what will bring them benefit in this life and in the Hereafter.
ii) By removing harm from them and bringing them benefit.
iii) By teaching them what one loves for oneself and hating for them what one hates for oneself.
iv) By teaching them what will benefit them.
v) By commanding them what is right and forbidding them what is wrong with gentleness and sincerity.
vi) By being soft with them, honouring the elderly, loving and being merciful towards the youths.
vii) By not being deceptive and jealous toward them.
viii) Protecting their honour and wealth.
It is necessary that a person has the intention of seeking the pleasure of Allaah (SWA) when giving naseehah. Only such an intention deserves reward from Allaah (SWA) and acceptance from His slaves.
An affliction that has befallen many Muslims is such that many times, after taking a closer look, we find that the person giving naseehah actually wants to slander the person he is advising because of personal hatred. This does not befit the one being advised and may lead to a worse situation with no benefit resulting from the naseehah.
Naseehah is most likely to bear its fruit when given to a person when he is by himself, for in such a situation the person is less likely to be affected by the thoughts of others. The sincere advisor should not aid the Devil over his brother by publicly rebuking him and letting Shaitaan beguile his brother into not taking the naseehah. This closes the doors of goodness and acceptance, and reduces the chances of the naseehah from being accepted.
This is why our pious predecessors used to give naseehah in secret. Hafidh Ibn Rajab writes, "When the righteous predecessors intended to give naseehah to someone, they admonished him privately, to the point that some of them said, "The one who exhorts his brother between him and himself , then it is naseehah. The one who exhorts him in front of people, then it is merely scolding!"
Shaitaan has declared war on all of humanity, and Allaah (SWA) has given the believers the tools necessary to win this war. Informing each other of ugly deeds we perform, or about loathsome characteristics that we may have is like pointing out where the land mines are on a battlefield. By pointing out these hidden dangers, we help to keep each other from destruction. In this war of conquering the self, the help, aid and guidance of our brothers and sisters is needed to assure that ultimate victory, insha'Allaah, of true success in this life and in the Hereafter is attained. May Allah (SWA) continue to shower His Great Mercy on us all, Ameen". O MANKIND ALWAYS REMEMBER!!!

"Do we (the muslim ummah) have a plan to rise again?

Wrong Map can't lead us to the right destination. Doesn't matter how fast and cool the ride we have is.
If we need to reach the right destination, we must have the right map, with the right ride. Our Map is the Quran and Sunnah; and our ride is our intentions. It is the only proven guarantee we have! We need to make the paradigm shift.

All Muslim countries have dual agendas, i.e. hidden and stated, and that will never allow them to cooperate and be united. The main thing that we all Muslims need to have is what is known as "Common Culture", A strong culture in any society serves like an immune system in a body and that is the only guarantee to unity and success and protection from foreign invasions. Our Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) has foreseen the importance of unique common culture, and that’s why it is obligatory for all of us Muslims to make Quran and Sunnah as a source to derive our values. But actual reality is, we have ignored that golden rule and knelt ourselves to the foreign culture which was bombarded on us through their media.

It is much obvious in recent times in our society, lavish living style replaced simplicity, and materialism took upper hand over spirituality and morality. Like pops in the west, only clerics have become the source of information about religion, whereas, in the Quran, Allah (SWA) says "This book has the signs for those who believe". And "Belief" in something means having a feeling that something can be trusted (true). So only those people can understand this book who seek guidance with sincerity from their heart.

We can't expect anything to change unless, change starts from within ourselves, to our families, to the Nation and eventually Ummah". May Allah (SWA) continue to guide the muslim ummah aright, Ameen. O MANKIND ALWAYS REMEMBER!!!

Salam brother, I love your posts and where have you been? Nice to have you back

Hello brother, Salam,, I've been around and about 

@asamuel
Now see, your story is confirming what people are saying about you. I am coming back with full response, just a bit busy.

Faith and Trust in Allah



(If Allah touches you with affliction, none can remove it but He; if He touch you with happiness, He hath power over all things. He is the Omnipotent over His slaves; and He is the Wise, Acquainted with all things.) (Al-An`am 6:17-18)

We must have strong and deep faith and trust in Allah. Allah knows everything and He is with us wherever we are. He has power and might. He is wise and merciful. We should trust in Allah in all situations, whether happy or sad, whether successful or confronted with difficulties and problems.

Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported:

I was (once) behind the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) when he said to me, “Boy, I teach you (a few) words: Remember Allah, and He will protect you. Remember Allah (observing His commands and avoiding His prohibitions), and you will find Him close to you. When you have to ask for something, ask of Allah. When you seek help, seek Allah’s help. Believe firmly that if all the creation desires to benefit you in anything, they can never benefit you, but that which Allah has decreed for you. If they all unite to harm you, they will not be able to harm you in anything, but that which Allah has decreed for you.” (At-Tirmidhi)

These are important words. They are part of our faith as Muslims. We believe in one God. We are the people of tawheed (monotheism). Tawheed affects our lives, our personalities, and our behavior. It gives us the following:

1. Dignity and Self-Esteem

A believer in tawheed knows that Allah alone is the possessor of all power and none besides Him can benefit or harm a person, provide for his needs, give or take away life, or wield authority or influence. This makes a person independent and highly dignified. Such a person would not disgrace himself by bowing in homage to any creature, or begging anyone else. Such a person is not overawed by any person’s greatness. A person of tawheed has great determination, patience and perseverance. He is unshaken by any difficulty. He relies on Allah and places his trust in Allah. When such a person makes up his mind and devotes to do Allah’s commands, he has full confidence in the support of the most powerful Lord.

2. Modesty and Humbleness

A believer in tawheed knows that Allah is the ultimate power and only Allah controls everything. Whatever one has is given by Allah. Allah can take away just as He can give. He knows that whatever happens in this world, big or small, good or evil, advantage or disadvantage, success or loss, increase or decrease, life or death, richness or poverty, health or sickness, everything happens by the will of Allah. A believer in tawheed cannot be arrogant and self conceited because he believes that his merits or achievements are not due to his own worth, they are gifts from Allah. Such a person is always thankful to Allah and recognizes how much he depends upon Allah.

3. Morality, Tolerance and Open-Mindedness

The believer in tawheed is always morally upright. All his standards come from one and the same authority, the authority of Allah. He does not have double or multiple standards. There is only one Lord and the Lord treats all people equally. The rules of Allah are universal and they are applicable to all people in all places. A believer in tawheed knows that Allah has created everything in this universe, and every thing and every being belongs to Allah. This makes a person very open minded, tolerant, and caring. Sometimes people say that monotheism makes people intolerant, but we say that this is the most tolerant and compassionate belief system. Because we do not believe that this thing belongs to our God and that thing belongs to some other god. It is polytheism and atheism that divide the people and create intolerance and dissentions, not tawheed.

4. Ultimate Peace and Contentment

The belief in tawheed purges the mind of jealousy, envy, and greed, and keeps away the temptation of resorting to base and unfair means for achieving success. The believer has faith that everything is in the hand of Allah. Honor, power, reputation, authority, and everything are under His control and He gives to whomever He wills. The duty of the human being is to struggle, to do good, and to trust in Allah.

Tests for the Believers: Fluctuations of Life


A person’s life in this world is not stable. One passes through alternating periods of happiness and dismay, strength and weakness, wealth and poverty, health and sickness, etc. A true believer is one who maintains a clear level of faith throughout the worldly fluctuations. He continues to remember Allah and ascribe the bounties to Him, and he turns to Him in submission, asking for relief from his affliction. This is described by the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), who said:

“Indeed amazing are the affairs of a believer! They are all for his benefit. If he is granted ease of living he is thankful; and this is best for him. And if he is afflicted with a hardship, he perseveres; and this is best or him.” (Muslim)

And Allah said:

[Certainly, We shall test you with fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives and fruits; but give glad tidings to the patient—those who, when afflicted with calamity say, “Truly to Allah we belong, and truly to Him shall we return.” It is those who will be awarded blessings and mercy from their Lord; and it is those who are the guided ones.] (Al-Baqarah 2:155–157)

Thus, a believer shows gratitude and thankfulness for all the wonderful blessings that Allah grants him. And he displays patience and submission during sickness and hardships, hunger, or other afflictions.

Hardships Benefit the Believer

Allah has decreed that, in this life, hardships and disasters strike both believers and non-believers. For a non-believer, they are inconveniences that hinder him from proceeding with his normal involvement in the worldly life. For a believer, on the other hand, they are instances of rest and remembrance, tests that promise great rewards, and indications of atonement and expiation of sins. Regardless of how little is the harm that strikes a believer, it carries with it good news of forgiveness and elevated rank in Paradise . The Righteous Predecessors used to be pleased when a hardship afflicted them, seeing it as a token of Allah’s forgiveness and benevolence.

Expiations of Sins

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet said, ”Hardships continue to befall a believing man and woman in their body, family, and property, until they meet Allah burdened with no sins” (At-Tirmidhi).

Sign of Allah’s Love

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whenever Allah wills good for a person, He subjects him to adversity” (Al-Bukhari and others).

Sign of Faith

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) and Ka`b ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The parable of a believer is that of a fresh and moist plant; the wind tilts it this way and that way; and so is the believer; he continues to be subject to affliction. And the parable of a hypocrite is that of a firm cedar tree; it does not shake—until it is uprooted all at once.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)[/b]

[b]Sign of Righteousness

The prophets and righteous people are afflicted the most, and their rewards are the highest. Sa`d (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The most in their suffering among the people are the prophets, then the best, then the (next) best. One is afflicted in accordance with his faith. If his faith is firm, his affliction is hard, and if his faith is weak, his affliction is light. Indeed, one would be so much subjected to adversity until he walks among the people without any sins.” (Ahmad and At-Tirmidhi)


Early Punishment

Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“When Allah wills good for a servant of His, He expedites his punishment in this life; and when He wills retribution for a servant of His, He holds his sins for Him to judge him by them on the Day of Resurrection.” (At-Tirmidhi)[color=#990000][/color]

Multiplication of Rewards

Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The amount of reward is in accordance with the amount of suffering. When Allah loves some people, He tries them (with affliction). He who then is content (with Allah’s decree) has achieved the acceptance (of Allah), and he who is dissatisfied (with Allah’s decree) will attain the anger (of Allah).” (At-Tirmidhi)