If u are not a muslim, u are LAZY. And being literal, Yoga lessons aint good?

@Mustay

Thank you brother.

@pataki,

Mustay has said. It is Laziness that is making the like of you stay put as christians.

You dont have to puify yourself after having intercourse with your wife.
You dont have to purify yourself after unrinating.etc
You dont have to perform any ablution
You dont have to pray five times daily
You dont have to 'pay back' any missed dancing and clapping during service.

etc,

All you need do is just believe that jesus died for you, YOU ARE SAVED.

Posted by mrpataki
See who talks here oh, I will not give up on you, babatunde, until accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior!. Even the Love of God envelopes me into doing such.

My funny brother. No need to preach to me. I already believe in him likewise all muslims. You would have read the story of Jesus in the Quran, it shows that we muslims believe in him. We believe in him as the servant and messenger of Allah sent to Israelites alone. He came to the Israelite with the Gospel.I also learnt that he was a muslim likewise other prophets. He is called Isa (PBUH). Did you see me praying for him (PBUH). We accord him repect more than you do BUT we do not believe him

1. as the saviour (He is well known to be earthly saviour and he is not the only earthly saviour)

2. as God

3. as one of the three (trinity)

4. to have died ( that is the reason for his second coming, he will come and die because it is appointed unto man to die once but after this, the judgment)

etc,

Posted by mrpataki
How do you mean about the fact that muslims can worship God when not feeling fine by leaning on something considering the fact that your only mode of worship is by your Yoga lessons in the name of prayers?

Honestly, you have to leave this thread. I have had enough of you, am laughing here. You are just funny with your post.

Yoga ko, yogo or yoghourt ni?? Yeye friend

@Mustay

Thank you brother.

@pataki,

Mustay has said. It is Laziness that is making the like of you stay put as christians.

You dont have to puify yourself after having intercourse with your wife.
You dont have to purify yourself after unrinating.etc
You dont have to perform any ablution
You dont have to pray five times daily
You dont have to 'pay back' any missed dancing and clapping during service.

etc,

All you need do is just believe that jesus died for you, YOU ARE SAVED.

Posted by mrpataki
See who talks here oh,  I will not give up on you, babatunde, until accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior!. Even the Love of God envelopes me into doing such.
My funny brother. No need to preach to me. I already believe in him likewise all muslims. You would have read the story of Jesus in the Quran, it shows that we muslims believe in him. We believe in him as the servant and messenger of Allah sent to Israelites alone. He came to the Israelite with the Gospel.I also learnt that he was a muslim likewise other prophets. He is called Isa (PBUH). Did you see me praying for him (PBUH). We accord him repect more than you do BUT we do not believe him

1. as the saviour (He is well known to be earthly saviour and he is not the only earthly saviour)

2. as God

3. as one of the three (trinity)

4. to have died ( that is the reason for his second coming, he will come and die because it is appointed unto man to die once but after this, the judgment)

etc,

Posted by mrpataki
How do you mean about the fact that muslims can worship God when not feeling fine by leaning on something considering the fact that your only mode of worship is by your Yoga lessons in the name of prayers?

Honestly, you have to leave this thread. I have had enough of you, am laughing here. You are just funny with your post.

Yoga ko, yogo or yoghourt ni?? Yeye friend

@ Mustay and blabs,
To say this, I am a great dancer for God. I minister to God in the act of dancing and it is a beautiful act of worsip!, which in the whole wide world, you can never beat me at it! Your yoga lessons are just mere exertions of frustrations on your part and an act of slavery from your masters passed down to you.

So to assume xtians are lazy is not a good point to hang on to here, because I clearly beat that! If you are in doubt,ask davidylan who just got to know who I am here, and my dance exploits while we were in Uni then!

As to the jargons you wrote out here about purification after sexual intercourse and the rest, should I assume that you are into sexual intercourse outside the courts of marriage, that is why you "purify yourself before your yoga lessons"? Does your quranic false book call for that?

And yes, you dont have to do all that religious jargons you invovle in. The Blood of Jesus is available to cleanse us of all our sins.

@pataki,

Your blind argument holds no water.

The issue of purification is in your bible, but you will condemn it saying it was for the Israelites but the issue of tithe is never condemned still from the same Old Testament.

Thank you very much that we do yoga. Yoga is far more better than you that specialises in using a whole being for sacrifice!!.

You are no more different from Okija people. Hey, do you know about THE REFINED OGBONI FRATERNITY (ROF) and the ILEDI?

Yeye herbalist , even sango worshippers are far better than you people.

Christians, tufiakwa!!!

And please do not dance yourself to, on the Judgement Day.
Makossa, juju, highlife dancers.

Yeye people

@Mustay,

Mustay:

If u are not a muslim, u are LAZY. And being literal, Yoga lessons aint good?

I suppose that being a Muslim is the laziest thing to happen to anyone - thus explains your lazy input. Besides, when I schooled in Nigeria, I saw how true that was in the North where a lot of Muslims lived.

And outside of Nigeria, they happen to be generally lazy as most of them with large family sizes would sign up for social benefits rather than seek employment. The short time I spent in Sweden last year impressed this plainly to any visitor to that country.

babs787:

@pataki,

Your blind argument holds no water.

The issue of purification is in your bible, but you will condemn it saying it was for the Israelites but the issue of tithe is never condemned still from the same Old Testament.

Thank you very much that we do yoga. Yoga is far more better than you that specialises in using a whole being for sacrifice!!.

You are no more different from Okija people. Hey, do you know about THE REFINED OGBONI FRATERNITY (ROF) and the ILEDI?

Yeye herbalist , even sango worshippers are far better than you people.

Christians, tufiakwa!!!

And please do not dance yourself to, on the Judgement Day.
Makossa, juju, highlife dancers.

Yeye people

Oh blaba-tunde,
Even your posts begs for a good point to hang on to. Yet you dont seem to understand a jack at all!
I asked you a point, yet you run run away from it.
I asked you do you indulge in sexual intercourse that necessitates for your ablution?

i created this thread for a purpose . i left it for few days its now a battle ground .

just like david and neelsel did .if anyone wants to derail pls create a new thread for it . .i'll appreciate that

@syrup

I suppose that being a Muslim is the laziest thing to happen to anyone - thus explains your lazy input. Besides, when I schooled in Nigeria, I saw how true that was in the North where a lot of Muslims lived.

And outside of Nigeria, they happen to be generally lazy as most of them with large family sizes would sign up for social benefits rather than seek employment. The short time I spent in Sweden last year impressed this plainly to any visitor to that country.

We are discussing religion and not social benefits or whatever.
Understood?

@pataki

Posted by mrpataki
Oh blaba-tunde,
Even your posts begs for a good point to hang on to. Yet you don't seem to understand a jack at all!
I asked you a point, yet you run run away from it.
I asked you do you indulge in sexual intercourse that necessitates for your ablution?

You already know the above. Hit the nail on the head and let me know where you are going.

Lets read the below conversations

After the normal singing, dancing, praying etc.

Speaker: "Pastor, there is man here, he has been blind from birth for 25 years but Jesus healed him today, he can see".

Pastor: "touch me", "touch me"

Every time the man tries touching the pastor, the pastor moves back.
The pastor then ask the blind man that has regained his sight.

Pastor:"whats the colour of my suit?"
The blind man: Black
Pastor: whats the colour curtain (he points to curtain)?"
The blind man: Red
Pastor: Give Jesus a big hands, he can seeeeeee, Halleluyah

Can someone tell me, who taught the man that red is red and black is black from birth?

Secondly

Speaker; Pastor, there is a man here, he has been dumb from birth for 30 years and jesus has healed him, he can speak now.

Pastor starts raising his finger for the man to count. Each time he raises a finger, the dumb counts one, two, three to five.

Can somebody tell me, who taught the man numerals.

I could remember a very funny incident that happened at Mushin, a suburb of Lagos State, many years back.

Public lecture was organised by muslims and along the line, they got to the issue of miracles that no christians can do that except jesus alone.

Funny enough, a pastor came out, mounted the stage and told everybody that he wanted to perform miracle that he would make the blind see, the lame walk etc. People started bringing the blind, lame etc to the stage.

The pastor then requested for a glass of water and before you could say Jack, bags of satchet water, bottled water etc flooded the stage.

The pastor prayed and did same to the bucketful of water in front of him. He first went to the blind, pour the water on him, the eyes refused to open, did same to the lame, same story.

He did this for hours without success and said that it was because the blind, lame etc didnt believe in him. The handicapped quickly told the pastor that they believed. The man tried so tay, no luck oo.

I dont even know that they came in two. His friend too mounted the stage, prayed, speak the abrakadabra stuff and tried opening their eyes but no way ooo.He tried making them walk, but no way oooooooo.

In short, they both left the stage in shame.

@mrpataki, you might have deceived muslims in some areas but as far as this nairaland exists. nothing of such will ever happen.

So be straightforward and let me know where you are going and if you have any problem that you want me to solve for you, be it in Islam or christianity, open a thread and I will do justice to your problems.

please lert's keep the ststus quo of islamic talk and don't turn this thread like those in the SPORTS please!

@babs787,

babs787:

@syrup

We are discussing religion and not social benefits or whatever.
Understood?

I hope you saw I was discussing the religion of Islam?

Fasting

Fasting is another unique moral and spiritual characteristic of Islam. Literally defined, fasting means to abstain "completely" from foods, drinks, intimate intercourse and smoking, before the break of the dawn till sunset, during the entire month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic year. But if we restrict the meaning of the Islamic Fasting to this literal sense, we would be sadly mistaken.


The Spiritual meaning of fasting


1. It teaches man the principle of sincere Love: because when he observes Fasting he does it out of deep love for God. And the man who loves God truly is a man who really knows what love is.


2. It equips man with a creative sense of hope and an optimistic outlook on life; because when he fasts he is hoping to please God and is seeking His Grace.


3. It imbues in man the genuine virtue of effective devotion, honest dedication and closeness to God; because when he fasts he does so for God and for His sake alone.


4. It cultivates in man a vigilant and sound conscience; because the fasting person keeps his fast in secret as well as in public. In fasting, especially, there is no mundane authority to check man's behavior or compel him to observe fasting. He keeps it to please God and satisfy his own conscience by being faithful in secret and in public. There is no better way to cultivate a sound conscience in man.



5. It indoctrinates man in patience and selflessness, as through fasting, he feels the pains of deprivation but he endures them patiently.


6. It is an effective lesson in applied moderation and willpower.


7. Fasting also provides man with a transparent soul, a clear mind and a light body.


8. It shows man a new way of wise savings and sound budgeting.


9. It enables man to master the art of Mature Adaptability. We can easily understand the point once we realize that fasting makes man change the entire course of his daily life.


10. It grounds man in discipline and healthy survival.


11. It originates in man the real spirit of social belonging, unity and brotherhood, of equality before God as well as before the law.


12. It is a Godly prescription for self-reassurance and self-control.

Types Of Fasting

There are EIGHT types of ROZAH as follows


1. Farze Muaiyyan - Fasting for the whole month of Ramadhaan once a year.


2. Farze Ghair Muaiyyan - The duty upon one to keep QAZAA of Rozah missed in the month of Ramadhaan with or without a valid reason.


3. Wajib Muaiyyan - To vow to keep a fast on a specific day or date for the sake of Allah, upon the fulfilment of some wish or desire (NAZR).


4. Wajib Ghair Muaiyyan - To vow or pledge to keep a fast without fixing any day or date, upon the fulfilment of a wish (Nazr). Those Rozahs which are kept for breaking one's Qasm (oath) also fall under this category.


5. Sunnat - Those Rozahs which Rasulullah (peace and blessings be upon him) kept and encouraged others to keep e.g. fasting on the 9th and l0th of Muharram, the 9th of Zil Hijjah, etc.


6. Mustahab - All fasts besides Farz, Wajib and Sunnat are Mustahab e.g. fasting on Mondays and Thursdays.


7. Makrooh - Fasting ONLY on the 9th or l0th Muharram or fasting ONLY on Saturdays.


8. Haraam - It is Haraam to fast on FIVE days during the year. They are Eidul Fitr, Eidul Adha and three days after Eidul Adha.

Who Must Fast?

Fasting in Ramadan is compulsory upon every Muslim, male or female, who has these qualifications:

--To be mentally and physically fit, which means to be sane and able.

-To be of full age, the age of puberty and discretion,which is normally
about fourteen. Children under this age should be encouraged to start this good practice on easy levels, so when they reach the age of puberty they will be mentally and physically prepared to observe fasting.


-To be present at one's permanent settlement, your hometown, one's farm, and one's business premises, etc.This means not to be on a journey of about fifty miles or more

-To be fairly certain that fasting is unlikely to cause you any harm, physical or mental, other than the normal reactions to hunger, thirst, etc.



Exemption From Fasting

These said qualifications exclude the following categories:

-Children under the age of puberty and discretion.

-Insane people who are unaccountable for their deeds. People of these two categories are exempted from the duty of fast, and no compensation or any other substituteis enjoined on them.

-Men and women who are too old and feeble to undertake the obligation of fast and bear its hardships. Such people are exempted from this duty, but they must offer, at least, one needy poor Muslim an average full meal or its value per person per day.

-Sick people whose health is likely to be severely affected by the observance of fast. They may postpone the fast, as long as they are sick, to a later date and make up for it, a day for a day.

-Travelers may break the fast temporarily during their travel only and make up for it in later days, a day for a day

-Pregnant women and women breast-feeding their children may also break the fast, if its observance is likely to endanger their own health or that of their infants.But they must make up for the fast at a delayed time, a day for a day.

-Women in the period of menstruation (of a maximum often days or of confinement (of a maximum of fortydays).; They must postpone the fast till recoveryand then make up for it, a day for a day.



It should be understood that here, like in all other Islamic undertakings, the intention must be made clear that this action is undertaken in obedience to God, in response to His command and out of love of Him.

AVOID:
Fried and fatty foods.
Foods containing too much sugar.
Over-eating especially at sehri.
Too much tea at sehri: Tea makes you pass more urine taking with it valuable mineral salts that your body would need during the day. Smoking cigarettes: If you cannot give up smoking, cut down gradually starting a few weeks before Ramadan. Smoking is unhealthy and one should stop completely.

EAT:
Complex carbohydrates at sehri so that the food lasts longer making you less hungry. Haleem is an excellent source of sugar, fiber, carbohydrates, potassium and magnesium. Almonds are rich in protein and fiber with less fat. Bananas are a good source of potassium, magnesium and carbohydrates.

DRINK:
As much water or fruit juices as possible between iftar and bedtime so that your body may adjust fluid levels in time.


General Recommendations

-It is strongly recommended by Prophet Muhammad to observe these practices especially during Ramadan:

-To have a light meal before the break of the dawn,known as Suhoor.

-To eat a few dates or start breaking the fast by plainwater right after sunset, saying this prayer Allahhumma laka sumna, wa 'ala rizqika aftarna. (O God!for Your sake have we fasted and now we break thefast with the food You have given us).

-To make your meals as light as possible because, as the Prophet put it, the worst thing man can fill is his stomach.

-To observe the supererogatory prayer known as Taraweeh.

-To exchange social visits and intensify humanitarian services.

-To increase the study and recitation of the Qur'an.

-To exert the utmost in patience and humbleness.

-To be extraordinarily cautious in using one's senses,one's mind and, especially, the tongue; to abstainfrom careless gossip and avoid all suspicious motions

be back with Zakat

Nice Topic. Fantastic Ideas.

When's da next Lesson

next lesson is tomorrow . .am tired today

Keep on Ma Sis.

Zakat (alms) is the name of what a believer returns out of his or her wealth to the neediest of Muslims for the sake of the Almighty Allah. It is called Zakat because the word Zakat is from Zakaa which means, to increase, purify and bless.
Who Should Give Zakat

The obligation of Zakat is mandatory on every Muslim who possesses the minimum Nisaab, whether the person is man, woman, young, old sane or insane. Because the proof of Zakat in Al-Qur'an and Sunnah is general and does not exclude young or insane. Allah (SWT) stated that: "Of their goods take alms so that thou mightiest purify and sanctify them, " (Al-Qur'an, 9: 103)

Imam Ibn Hazim said that every Muslim young or old sane or insane needs to cleanse his or her wealth with Zakat because of generality of the evidence. Anas bin Malik reported that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said: "Trade with the money of the orphan, lest it is eaten up by Zakat." (At-Tabraani) In another Hadith `Amru bin Shuaib related from his grandfather that the Messenger of Allah said:

"Whoever is entrusted with money of an orphan should trade with it and should not leave it sitting to be used up by charity." (Tirmidhi)

The point of reference in these reports is that the Messenger (saws) urged the trustee on the estate of people who due to age or other reasons cannot manage their own financial affairs, to invest it in a business that will yield a return and make it grow until they are in a position to do so themselves. For, if proper investment is not made with an ophan's inheritance, it will be depleted by charity, thus leaving the orphan with little or nothing.

The Nisaab

The Lawgiver, Allah has prescribed the minimum amount that is obligatory for Zakat in different ranges of properties, and that minimum amount is known as nisaab. The reason for nisaab is to ensure that no one is forced to give Zakat out of what he or she does not have, and that no wealth goes without Zakat. Nisaab is also an insurance against the tyranny of the state to tax the poor and or the neediest as is the case in many countries. Nisaab is a reference point for the average Muslim who is not sure whether he possesses the minimum wealth on which Zakat is obligatory. The wealthy need not worry about the Nisaab. Zakat is obligatory on their entire wealth and must be paid out at the end of financial year that they set for their Zakat.


The Nisaab will not be valid unless it fulfills two conditions:

1) The amount that has reached Nisaab must be the excess or surplus known as "faadil" from one's essential needs such as food, clothing, housing, vehicles, tools and machinery that is used in business. The essentials for living are exempted from Zakat.

Although what constitutes nisaab may change from one country to another, the amount that is needed for the basic needs of living in different countries is very similar, because the market place determines the prices, whether it is an official market or a non-official market. In the poorest countries people do without or live below the poverty standard, and that is why many go hungry or without basic essentials.

However, we must realize that Zakat is an act of worship (ebadah) like Salaat. The element of intention (niyyah) is necessary, and we should not overly rely on state agencies to determine for us the requirements of our religious duty. The so called the "consumption basket" (that is poverty level as determined the social security administration which are updated every fiscal year) may not be the same as what Islam considers minimum Nisaab.

In the industrialized countries, the consumption basket may include items that are not necessarily essential, such as entertainment, extra clothing, variety of food, eating in restaurant or eating at home, owning more than one car as opposed to having three cars in the driveway, drinking water as opposed to juices, eating regular food or special "health" food. This is why I believe it is essential that we do not lose site of the fact that Zakat is ebadah of wealth, like salaat and fasting. Non Muslims may consider all the things mentioned above as essentials while Muslims will not. Indeed, no Muslims in good standing will attempt to hide behind the label of consumption basket so as to evade Zakat.

Nisaab eliminates the possibility of injustice or unfair treatment of the Zakat payer. To suggest that if we do not follow the rules of International Monetary Fund or the arbitrary figures of social security administration or department of agriculture we will be doing injustice to the Zakat payer is ludicrous.

2) Nisaab must mature, that is the money is not liable for Zakat unless it has remained a full year in the possession of a person. This is the understanding of the majority of the scholars. Imam Abu Hanifah (raa) said: "What should be considered is the existence of nisaab at the beginning and the end of the Zakat year set by the payer". It does not matter if the nisaab money increases or decreases during the calendar year, as we will explain later.

This condition does not include farm produce, for it is due on the day it is harvested. Allah (SWT) stated: ", But render the dues that are proper on the day that the harvest is gathered, " (Al-Qur'an, 6: 141) According to Imam Al-`Abadi, (raa) Zakat money is of two kinds: one that by its nature can not be invested and Zakat of this category is due on the day of harvest. This includes all the farm produce that is liable for Zakat. The other is wealth that can be invested in the hope of a good return, like cash, gold or silver, because the opportunity is there that cash in one's hand can be invested for a good return. This includes currency investment, merchandise and livestock. Their Zakat is not due until they have matured in one full year.

The proof of this condition is the Hadith related by Ibn `Umar that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said: "He who acquires property is not liable for Zakat on it till a year passes." According to Ibn Rushd (raa) this is the understanding of the majority of scholars, including the four rightly guided Khalifahs.



Zakat on Salaries

Zakat Of Salaries

The condition of yearly term maturity applies to the commodities on which the Lawgiver said Zakat is due, and this includes silver, gold, modern paper currency and livestock. Paper currency is analogous to silver, therefore, it takes the case of silver. There is no Zakat on salary, earned income from wage earners or professionals or independent contractors until such money matures in a full year. There is no such thing as paying your Zakat on the day you receive your pay check. What the wage earner must know is that he or she can purify that money with charity (sadaqah) anytime they cash the pay check. Allah (SWT) states: "And in their wealth and possessions (was remembered) the right of the needy, he who asks and he who (for some reason) was prevented (from asking)." (Al-Qur'an, 51: 19).

We can deduce from the concept of "yearly maturity" of wealth on which Zakat is due as encouraging, among other things, saving on the part of the Zakat payer, and enhances the chances for eradicating poverty, because if the poor receives his rightful share of Zakat there will be the possibility that he can take Zakat money and invest it and become a Zakat payer instead of recipient. This possibility will be lost if he receives few Zakat dollars every month. To say that the wage earner just brings his check home and spends everything on necessities and lives from check to check with nothing left over means the person is eligible for Zakat.

Using farm produce as analogous to salary for Zakat is wrong analogy. As Imam Al-`Abadi said, these are two different categories of money. $2, 500.00 cash can be invested by the person and expect a good return whereas it will be difficult to invest a bushel of corn. It can be traded as a commodity, which is what it is. This why we must know that analogy has rules that must be followed before it is applied. Certainly the jurists are unanimous that earned income, known as almal al-mustafadah, should either be added to existing money and wait until that amount reaches maturity and then give their Zakat; or if there is no money on hand the time one possesses this money, he or she should wait one full year before assessing it for Zakat.

Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam and a vital element in the religion of Islam. It is the twin sister of Salaat. In Al-Qur'an, Allah (SWT) stated: "So establish regular Prayer and give regular Alms; and obey the Messenger; that you may receive mercy." (Al-Qur'an, 24: 56) Also, ", Establish regular Prayer and give regular Alms, and loan to Allah a beautiful loan, " (Al-Qur`an, 73: 20) "And they have been commanded no more than this: to worship Allah, offering Him sincere devotion, being true (in faith); to establish regular Prayer and to practice regular charity; and that is the religion right and straight." (Al-Qur`an, 98: 5)

In a famous Hadith reported by `Umar Bin Khattab (raa), the Messenger of Allah (saws) responded to Jibreel (as) and said: ", Islam is to testify that there is no deity but Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, to perform the prayer, to pay Zakat, to observe fasting in Ramadan, and to make pilgrimage to the house of Allah if you are able to do os, " (Bukhari, Muslim)

There is consensus among Muslim scholars that it is mandatory on every believer who is financially able. Whoever knowingly denies this obligation, while he possesses the minimum amount, would be considered a disbeliever and a renegade from Islam. Whoever is stingy, or tries to cheat, is considered among the wrongdoers. Zakat is mandatory on four categories of items.

1. Farm produce of seeds and fruits, such as wheat, barley, rice, dates, raisins, cocoa, pistachios, coffee, cashews. Allah (SWT) stated: "O you who believe, give of the good things which you have (honourably) earned, and of the fruits of the earth which We have produced for you, " (Al-Qur'an, 2: 267) Also: ", But render the dues that are proper on the day that the harvest is gathered, " (Al-Qur'an, 6: 141) Thus, these two verses and many others indicate that Zakat is due on farm products that reached the minimum amount (nisaab). No farm product is liable for Zakat unless it is a product that is considered as food and can be stocked or saved naturally without refrigeration. If the produce is perishable fruit, such as grapes, there is no Zakat. But if one sells them they will pay their Zakat on the profit earned when it matures.

The nisaab is 612 kilos, which equals 1,346.40 lb. There is no Zakat on produce that is less than this amount. If the farm produce or crops grow dependant on rainwater, or without any man's labour or irrigation, Zakat due is one-tenth of the total. If it is grown by irrigation, then the Zakat due is half of one-tenth of the total produce. There is no Zakat on fruits like apples or oranges or vegetables which are perishable and need refrigeration for long storage, but they should be considered as any income if the profit earned from their sale reaches the amount of Zakat, then Zakat should be given.


2. Cattle, including camels, cows, sheep and goats, that are freely graze and are raised for trade and production. For Zakat to be obligatory, the number must reach the nisaab. The nisaab of camels is five, of cows 30, of sheep and goats, 40. By freely grazing is meant the animal goes out to feed without the owner buying or bringing it feed or hay. If it is not a grazing animal, there is no Zakat in the stock by itself. The stock will, however, be considered as articles of trade, then will be assessed for Zakat as articles of trade when the profit earned from their sale reaches the amount by itself or in combination with other articles of the trade.


es in Zakat books to cover all types of business activity, be it cash or risk investment. If the business activity is analogous to commerce, it should be assessed the same rate as commerce. To subject the business to a different Zakat rate of 10%, which is the rate of farm products instead of its correct rate of 2.5%, the rate of commerce, is unfair and unjustified. Besides, there is no proof, even a weak one, to justify this unfair arbitrary taxation. The difference between 2.5% and 10% is high. The Zakat system is not like a state revenue collection, but Allah's `ebadah. However, if a business person decides to give more than 2.5% after deducting all the expenses including depreciation, Allah (SWT) will accept it from him.



Business Activities

Many scholars are of the opinion that any business activity that brings any return to the entrepreneur or investor should be assessed for Zakat. If the activity has a prescribed nisaab, such as gold, silver or paper currency, that nisaab is applied for Zakat. But if the business has no declared nisaab, its nisaab is the nisaab of commerce, one reason being that most business activities are considered as commerce and because, in actual fact, it is not factitious business name, such as GM, Apple or GE that is taxed for Zakat, it is the individual investor. We do not tax cooperations such IBM, Apple, or GM but the individual investors, share holders and owners of these corporations.

Indeed, there are enough rules in Zakat books to cover all types of business activity, be it cash or risk investment. If the business activity is analogous to commerce, it should be assessed the same rate as commerce. To subject the business to a different Zakat rate of 10%, which is the rate of farm products instead of its correct rate of 2.5%, the rate of commerce, is unfair and unjustified. Besides, there is no proof, even a weak one, to justify this unfair arbitrary taxation. The difference between 2.5% and 10% is high. The Zakat system is not like a state revenue collection, but Allah's `ebadah. However, if a business person decides to give more than 2.5% after deducting all the expenses including depreciation, Allah (SWT) will accept it from him.



4. Gold and silver, whether used for commerce or jewellery. Allah (SWT) states: ", And there are those who bury gold and silver and spend it not in the way of Allah: announce unto them a most grievous penalty. On the day when heat will be produced out of that (wealth) in the fire of hell, and with it will be branded their foreheads, their flanks and their backs. This is the (treasure) which you buried for yourselves: taste you, then, the (treasures) you buried." (Al-Qur'an, 9: 34-35). By hoarding is meant refusal to give it in the path of Allah, which includes Zakat.

In a hadith reported by Abu Hurairah (raa), the Messenger of Allah (saws) said: "For the owner or possessor of gold and silver who does not fulfil its obligation, on the Day of Resurrection it will be cast into sheets of fire and be branded on his forehead, side and back. Whenever it cools it is to be repeated for him in a day whose length is the length of fifty thousand years, until the judgement is rendered among the people." (Muslim). By its obligation is meant assessing it for Zakat. In another version: "No possessor of a treasure who does not give its Zakat."

Zakat is mandatory in gold and silver, irrespective of its form: in coins, raw or nugget, or jewelry for wearing, or for rent, because of the generality of evidence of Zakat without any detail. In a report by Abdullah bin `Amr bin `Aas (raa), he related that a woman came to the Messenger of Allah with her daughter. On the daughter's wrist were two heavy gold bracelets. The Messenger asked her, "Do you pay Zakat on this?" She replied, "No." The Messenger said: "Would it please you that Allah will encircle you with two bracelets of fire?" The reporter commented that she took them off and threw them down in front of the Messenger, and said: "They are for Allah and his Messenger." (Ahmed, Tirmidhi).

The Messenger's wife reported that: "The Messenger entered into my house and saw in my hand a huge ring made of silver, so he asked, `What is this?' I replied, `I made them to beautify myself for you, O Messenger of Allah.' He inquired, `Do you give their Zakat?' I said, `No,' or `Allah willing.' He said: `It will suffice you in the hellfire.'" (Abu Dawuud).

Zakat is due on gold when it reaches the amount of (nisaab), which is 20 Dinaar. According to a hadith, the Messenger said: "No Zakat on you is due until it reaches 20 dinaar." (Abu Dawud) The Islamic dinaar (currency) is one mithqal, a unit of weight which weighs four and one quarter of a gram. Thus, the nisaab is 85 grams. This is equal to $30.00 US dollars.

Similarly, there is no Zakat on silver until it reaches five oqiyah, because the Messenger said: "There is no Zakat on less then five oqiyah." (Muslim/Bukhari) Oqiyah is equal to forty Islamic dirhams. The nisaab is 200 dirhams. One dirham is equivalent to 595 grams. The Zakatable amount in both the gold and silver is a quarter of a tenth only.

Paper Currency

There is Zakat on modern paper currency because it is equivalent to silver. During the early days of Islam, silver and gold were the currency of exchange minted into dirham for silver and dinaar for gold. Silver, not gold, had a larger circulation. Thus many scholars are of opinion that silver should be the standard for the paper currencies of today because that is more advantageous to the Zakat payer, as it raises the minimum nisaab whereas gold lowers it. Although both metals are no longer circulated, they are still considered as a security against ever fluctuating paper money.

Silver should be used as a standard to assess Zakat annually, not paper currency, even if the currency is hard currency like the US dollar, Yen and Deutch Mark or Pound Sterling. Because these currencies are backed by political decisions that may not have anything to do with the economy, the value and strength of this paper money depends largely on all haram usury system of interest rates.

Thus, the Zakat payer should look up in the local newspaper's financial or business section for the price of silver which is currently about $3.82. per ounce. The nisaab, then, is 596 x .04=28.80 ounce multiplied by$3.82= 90.91. therefore. The nisaab is about $100.00, as of December 17, 1991.

The nisaab should be based on the market value of the currency. If the money is hard currency, there will be no problem, but if the money is a non-marketable currency, like most currencies in the third world countries, the nisaab should be based on the black market, which realistically reflects the value of the currency on the money market. In any case, the silver rate should be used to assess the Zakat.

If the nisaab is determined, the Zakatable amount is 2.5%, or .025 multiplied by the amount. For instance, if the Zakatable amount is $56,000.00 it will be 56,000. x .025 = $1,400.00.

Zakat is due on gold, silver, and or paper currency, whether it is cash in hand or credit in the hands of borrowers. Zakat is due on debts or cost of merchandize or rental money. If the borrower is a wealthy person that you know will pay back the debt, the lender (that is Halaal lending free of usury) should include that money in the assessment and give its Zakat. However, one can delay Zakat on a loan until he receives payment, then return its Zakat for the past years that he was unable to assess for Zakat. If the borrower is poor or is refusing to pay the debt, there will be no Zakat on the money until the lender receives the money. Then he will assess it for Zakat of one past due year, but there will be no Zakat in the years before that.

There is no Zakat on precious stones such as diamonds, or metals such uranium, regardless of their value. Gold and silver, of course are assessed for Zakat. However, if a person possesses any of these stones or metals, he should give their Zakat like any other articles of trade. If a person possesses diamonds or any other precious stones as an edge against inflation or for ornaments, there will no Zakat on these


3. Merchandise and goods of trade and commerce. This includes anything that is obtained for the business of buying and selling: land, animals, food provisions, fabric, cars, spare parts, etc. This inventory is evaluated annually and assessed for Zakat, whether the value is the same as the amount spent on it, more, or less. The owners of grocery stores, like any other business, must evaluate every item and give their Zakat. Simple bookkeeping of inventory, orders, cash on hand, and credits, that is non-delinquent loans, will give one a good picture of the Zakatable assets. But if one is unable to account for everything in the store or shop, he should assess it according to his ability until he is sure that his conscience is clear.

There is no Zakat on what is within one's dwelling or property which includes food, drinks, furniture, houses, animals, cars, clothes and shoes. The only exception is gold and silver. There is no Zakat on assets from rentals or lease, whether they are apartment units, taxi cabs, etc. That is, there is no Zakat on the apartment units, buses or cars for rental like yellow cabs company or trucks for rental or equipments. But there is Zakat on the proceeds or incomes from these rental assets if these assets reach the executable amount, either by themselves or in combination with other assets.

How To Give Zakat



Zakat may be assessed and returned in two ways:

a) Make a record of all money earned, either daily or monthly, which has reached the nisaab and remains in the treasury. The Zakat of that money would be due one year later on the same day the money was earned and reached nisaab. This means every month's income must be set aside and assessed for Zakat and so will be the case for the rest of the months. For instance, the income of January, 1991 will be assessed for Zakat in January, 1992, and the income of February, 1991 will be assessed for Zakat in February 1992, etc. This method of assessing Zakat is very difficult because it entails complete bookkeeping of daily or monthly earnings.

b) The best way is to set a day or a month, preferably Ramadan, for your annual Zakat return calendar, say Ramadan 1st, 1412. One year later on the same day Ramadan, 1413, your Zakat is due and payable. Whatever is in the savings is due for Zakat, regardless of whether all the amount in the savings reaches a year or not. For instance: if you have $20,000.00 in the savings account on the 1st of Ramadan, 1412 and one year later by the 1st of Ramadan, 1413 there is $50, 000.00, your Zakat will be assessed for $50,000.00, that is: $50.000.00 x .025= $1,250.00. If, on the other hand, by the 1st of Ramadan, 1413 the amount in the savings is $15,000.00, your Zakat will be for the amount in the savings, that is $15,000.00 x .025= $375.00. This method is the best because it is easy to assess, meets one's obligation and relieve one's conscience.
The Recipient Of Zakat

Knowing who qualifies as recipient of Zakat is an important aspect of Zakat collection in Islam. Fortunately, Allah (SWT) has been merciful to us in that He Himself spelled out the people eligible to receive Zakat. In Surah Tawbah He stated:

"Alms are for the poor and the needy; and those employed to administer (the funds); for those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to truth); for those in bondage and in debt; in the cause of Allah; and for the wayfarer: (thus is it) ordained by Allah, and Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom." (Al-Qur'an, 9: 60) In this verse Allah enumerated the people who deserve this divine welfare, and they are as follows:

The poor and the needy. These are individuals, and those under their care, to live on. By the poor and needy is meant the people whose income or salaries, or whatever material goods they have, fall short of the cost of living in a given environment and economy. The poor and the needy should be given what will suffice them and their families for one full year. The needy who want to get married and have no means should be given enough for this purpose, and so, too, the student who needs money for tuition, rent, food, and books. The working poor should be given supplementary Zakat. But the wealthy, or any person with enough income to live on should not be given Zakat, even if they asked for it. Instead, they should be warned and admonished for asking for what does not belong to them.

In a hadith reported by Abdullah bin `Umar, the Messenger of Allah (saws) stated: "A man keeps on asking others for something till he comes on the day of Resurrection without any piece of flesh on his face." (Bukhari/Muslim). This hadith indicates a humiliating appearance before Allah (SWT) that awaits a person who asks illegally.

Some said: this hadith implies Allah will punish a person with the very limb, the face, that he used to impress on others to give him their money unlawfully.

In another hadith reported by Abu Hurairah, the Messenger of Allah said: "Whoever asks people for their money so as to get rich, he is asking for flames of fire. It is up to him to ask for more or less (he should beware)." (Muslim) This hadith indicates the severity of the punishment, the more one asks the more punishment, the less one asks the less the punishment.

In another hadith, reported by Hakeem bin Hizaam said: I begged the Messenger of Allah and he gave me. I begged again, and he gave me. I begged again and he gave me. He then said: "This money is green and sweet; he who receives it from people with a cheerful heart, Allah will bless him in it; he who receives it, with an avaricious mind would not be blessed in it. He will be like the person who eats without being satisfied; and the upper hand is better than the lower hand" (Muslim)

This hadith gave an analogy between money and green, ripened fruit that people love to eat. Thus, it indicates that both are greatly loved but easily finished. For money that is easy come easy go, one must be careful about the punishment that awaits the illegal eater. If a person asks for Zakat and there are no signs of wealth, and he does not know that he should not ask, or a person who is well and able, who can work, but does not; if these people do not know that it is not permissible for them to ask, it may be given anyway.

In a hadith reported by Ahmed, Abu Dawud, and Nasa'e, two men came to the Messenger of Allah (saws) and asked for Zakat. He looked at them closely and found them strong and able, he said, "If you want I will give you. But you should know that the wealthy or an able person who can work has no share in Zakat" (Ahmad)

Those who administer the Zakat department, assigning people for collecting, bookkeeping, making lists of people eligible for Zakat, and a financial calendar. These people will receive Zakat as compensation for their work, even if they are wealthy. This does not include a person who works as an agent for one or two wealthy people to take Zakat for himself. They should donate their time for Zakat disbursement and do it with honesty and truthfulness. If they can not, they should be paid or rewarded for their time. In a hadith related by Abu Musa Al-Ashi`ari (raa), the Messenger of Allah said: "A trustworthy Muslim executor is the one who executes completely what has been entrusted to him of Zakat money in good faith." (Bukhari)

That is, he will give the Zakat money to any of the eligible recipients of Zakat. He should carry on the duty voluntarily, but if he can not distribute the money without being paid, the Zakat payer should pay him for his work. The payment for the service of distributing Zakat should not come out of Zakat money.

The new converts to Islam whose hearts we want to harmonize into the fold of Islam, either because their faith is weak or we are afraid of their being harmed, should be given Zakat to strengthen their Iman or until we no longer fear their harm.

The bonds person who has contracted with his master to buy himself out of bondage deserve Zakat and should be given enough to pay off their debt to the master and be freed themselves; similarly, Muslim prisoners of war if their freedom is tied to monetary payment, deserve Zakat sufficient enough to secure their release.

On the other hand, if a person accidentally killed someone and have no means to pay off the blood money, he should be helped from Zakat funds.

The people in debt are of two kinds:

(A) The guarantor, who takes the responsibility of someone else's debt so as to reconcile the two warring parties, to extinguish the fire of fitnah between them. If the person requests Zakat money to pay off this debt he should be given it, which will encourage him to continue in this noble cause.

In a hadith reported by Qubaysah Al-Hilaaly (raa), he said I was under debt (hamaalah) and I came to the Messenger (saws) and begged him to help me pay it off. The Messenger told him: "Wait until we receive charity, so we will command that it be given to you." However, the Messenger stated: "O Qubaysah, begging is not permitted except for one of three categories of people:

A man who has incurred debt (as guarantor to reconcile blood wit) for him begging is permissible till he pays that off, after which he must stop it; a man whose property has been destroyed by calamity which has smitten him; for him begging is permissible till he gets what will support life or will provide him reasonable subsistence; and a man who has been smitten by poverty, the genuineness of which should be confirmed by three knowledgeable members of his people; for him begging is permissible till he gets what will support him, or will provide him subsistence. Besides these three, Qubaysah, begging is forbidden for every other persons, and one who engages in such consumes that which is forbidden." (Muslim)

(B) Whoever incurs debt and has no money to pay it back will be given from Zakat to help pay his debt, whether the amount is large or small; or his creditor should be paid directly on his behalf, so long as it is paid off.

Zakat can be given in the path of Al[/b]lah. By this is meant to finance a Jihad effort in the path of Allah, not for Jihad for other reasons. The fighter (mujahid) will be given as salary what will be enough for him. If he needs to buy arms or some other supplies related to the war effort, Zakat money should be used provided the effort is to raise the banner of Islam.

[b]The wayfarer. This is the traveller who in a strange land runs out of money. He or she deserves Zakat, enough money to take him back to his country, even if he is wealthy and can find someone to loan him the money. On his part, he should take with him on his trip sufficient money, if he is wealthy, so that he will not need Zakat. Zakat money can not be used to pay off other obligations, such as giving Zakat money to people you are obligated to take care of by law; or Zakat money can not be used to pay for hotel and food expenses.

It is, however, permissible to give Zakat to a wife or family member, provided it is not part of their daily living expense money, but is needed to pay off a debt for one's wife if she can not pay it. So is the case for one's parents if they can not pay their debt.

Zakat money may be given to members of the family for their expenses if one is not obligated to take care of them financially. The wife can pay off a debt of her husband with Zakat money, because he may be among the eight eligible recipients and she is not obligated to spend on him as he is on her.

The eight eligible recipients of Zakat can be denied their right to Zakat without proof from Al-Qur`an or Sunnah. In a hadith reported by Ibn Mas`ud, his wife Zaynab heard the Messenger of Allah order women to give Zakat, so she asked the Messenger (saws): " O Messenger of Allah, you commanded us to give Zakat, and I have jewellery that I wanted to assess for Zakat, but my husband Abdullah bin Mas`ud claimed that his son deserves it more than anyone." The Messenger replied: Your husband Ibn Mas`ud is right. Your son deserves your charity more than anyone." In another hadith reported by Salman bin `Aamir, he said the Messenger of Allah said: " Charity to the poor is only charity, but charity to the rest of kind is charity and maintenance of relations (sillah)." (Nisaee)

No loan should be written off as Zakat because Zakat is taken and given. Allah (SWT) said: "Of their goods take alms, " (Al-Qur'an, 9: 103) And in a Hadith the Messenger has been reported as saying: "Allah has mandated on you Zakat to be taken from the wealthy and to be given to the poor." Thus, writing off debt is not taken. For instance, If you loan a person money, you can not write off that loan as a Zakat. However, it could be written off as sadaqah charity. Furthermore, loan, delinquent or not, is considered an absent money, therefore, it should not be transacted in Zakat. for Zakat is assessed only in cash in hand. Besides, debt money is valued less than cash in the hand, and using that money for alms is like exchanging good money for bad.

Salam Alaekun

Jazakulah Khairan.

May Allah increases your knowledge. (Amin)

Maa Salam

Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca is one of the five pillars of Islam. Hajj was made obligatory in the 9th year of Hijra. The Holy Prophet sent off 300 Muslims under the leadership of Hazrat Abubakr Siddique (may Allah be pleased with him) to Mecca so that they could perform Hajj. That was the year when it was banned for the Mushrikeen (those who associate partners with Allah) to enter Ka’ba. It was also made unlawful to perform Tawaaf (circling of Ka’ba) with naked body.

The following year, 10th Hijra, the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) announced a head of time he himself would perform Hajj that year. He led tens of thousands of Muslims to Hajj that year and demonstrated to Muslims how to perform all the rites and rituals of the Hajj. This Hajj is known in history as Hajjatul Wida’ or Farewell Pilgrimage because this proved to be the last Hajj the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) performed. At the end of this farewell pilgrimage, the divine revelation that had started some 22 years ago came to an end with the following verse of Surah Al-Maidah:

“This day have I completed My commandments for you, and have brought to its fullness the favor that I have bestowed upon you, and have chosen Islam as your religion”

.Hajj is an act of worship just like Salat (five daily prayers) and Sawm (fasting in the month of Ramadan). Muslims from all over the world gather in Mecca in the last month of Muslim calendar and worship Allah. Hajj is a special worship that lasts for several days. This is an occasion that brings Muslims of all countries, colors, and races to one place – the Ka’ba. This is a unique opportunity of worshipping Allah collectively in a large gathering at one place.c

   Significance & Philosophy of hajj

Every nation and society has a center of unity where they get together to worship God. They see prosperity and culture as relics of unity. People of the society get to know each other and understand each other’s difficulties. They form a unified front to remove these difficulties and achieve their goals. Allah says in the Holy Quran: “And to every people We appointed rites of sacrifice, that they might mention the name of Allah…” (22:34)

With this idea, Hajj has been made a pinnacle of worship in order that Muslims who gather to perform Hajj can praise their Lord and Master, be thankful for His blessings, and humbly pray to Him for the removal of their difficulties. Muslims living in various parts of the world get to know each other, lay the foundation of social culture, give advice to each other, and provide opportunity for collective struggle.

 

3.   Upon Whom Is It Obligatory To Perform Haj[/b]j

An adult Muslim of a sane mind, an able body and having means to bear the expenses must perform this act of worship once in his/her lifetime. There should be peace on the way to Mecca and there should be no hindrance or restriction in traveling to Mecca. Hajj is not obligatory for children, the sick, and those who are unable to bear the expenses for Hajj.


4[b].   What are the Timings of Hajj (Pilgrimage)


There are specific months for performing the Hajj and are called “Months of Pilgrimage.” These three Islamic months are Shawwal, Ze-Qa’d and Dul-Hajj. During these three “Months of Hajj”, one prepares for the pilgrimage, attains good morals, and completes other physical conditions for the pilgrimage. All the essential duties of the pilgrimage have to be completed between 8th and the 13th day of Dul-Hajj. Additional tawaaf  (circling around the Ka’ba), however, may be performed until the end of the month of Dul-Hajj.

5.  Pillars of Hajj

There are three basic pillars for performing Hajj:

1.To enter into state of “Ihram” and have the intention to perform the pilgrimage.

2.To stay at the field of “Arafat” on the ninth of Dul-Hajj If someone cannot go to the field of Arafat even for a short time then his/her pilgrimage will not be complete. He/she has to perform the pilgrimage again the following year.

3.Additional circling of the “Ka’ba” that is done after the stay at the field of “Arafat” and performed from the tenth to the end of the month.

 

6.      Sequence of Rites and Actions for performing Hajj:

A.   Departure From Home

A Muslim must be mindful of his/her duties towards family and fellow human beings. A Muslim who intends to perform Hajj must make sure, before departing for Hajj that his family is provided for during the period he is away for the Hajj. He should pay up his debt and seek forgiveness from fellow human being whom he might have caused harm in the past. He should be diligent in observing Salat (five daily prayers) and Sawm (fasting) in the month of Ramadhan as well as carrying out other religious obligations. He must shun all arrogance and exhibit a character of modesty and humbleness. He must not use unlawfully acquired money or unlawful means to perform Hajj. He should seek sincere repentance from Allah of all his past sins. In short, one should depart for Hajj just like one would wish to depart from this world.

One should spend some money in charity as well. A woman is not allowed to perform Hajj alone and must be accompanied by an adult Muslim Mahram (father, husband, son or brother etc.)

One should say two Rakat Nafl (supererogatory) prayer before leaving home for Hajj.

B. Ihram at Miqat

When one reaches “Miqat” (any one of the appointed places in Mecca where pilgrims make a vow of pilgrimage) one must perform ablution or take a bath, use perfume, and put on two clean, unstitched, preferably white, pieces of cloth. This pair of clothing is called Ihram. One sheet should be wrapped around the lower part of the body and the other sheet around the upper body; the head should not be covered. Women can perform pilgrimage in the cloths they are wearing. Under normal circumstances a woman’s face should not be covered unless she comes face to face with a stranger and she has to conceal herself. During the five days of Hajj, all Muslims engaged in this worship must remain in this same simple dress. As soon as a pilgrim puts on Ihram and declares his intention to perform Hajj, he/she enters into the state of Ihram and his/her Hajj begins.

C.   Talbiyah

After putting on the Ihram, men and women offer two Raka’ts of Nafl (supererogatory) prayer followed by recitation of their “intention” and saying the following words:
“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik; La Shareeka-laka Labbaik; Innalhamda wan-na’mata-laka wal-mulka Lashreeka-laka"

Translation:
“Here I am, O Allah! Here I am in Thy August presence; there is no associate with Thee, here am I; surely all praise is Thine and all favors are Thine and the kingdom is Thine, there is no associate with Thee.”

These words are recited in Arabic and called “Talbiyah”. These words are an essential part of the state of Ihram and Ihram will not complete without reciting these words. After saying Talbiyah pilgrim is ready to fulfill his obligation of Hajj and is required to fulfill all the conditions laid down for Hajj. While one is in the state of Ihram it is strictly forbidden to engage in foul talk, sexual conduct, arguments, or enter into a war. Allah says in the Holy Quran: “ …so whoever determines to perform the Pilgrimage in these months, should remember that there is to be no foul talk, nor any transgression, nor any quarreling during Pilgrimage. …” (2:198)


D.  Entering Masjid-el-Haram

After reaching Mecca, one should head straight to Ka’aba that is situated in bounds of Masjid-el-Haram and perform Tawaaf. It is said that when one has his/her first glance at Ka’aba, whatever prayers one makes is granted.


E.   Istlam (Kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad)

The act of kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad (Black Stone) is called Istlam. While kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad, ones hands should be on the wall of the Ka’ba in the same position as when one performs a Sajdah (prostration) during a prayer. If it is not possible to kiss the Hajr-e-Aswad, it is permissible just touch it with a hand and if that is not possible the just point to the Hajr-e-Aswad and blow a kiss to it.



F.   Tawaaf (Circling of ka’ba)

After performing Istlam (kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad) as described above, a pilgrim should perform Tawaaf of Ka’ba. Tawaaf is performed by going around Ka’ba seven times keeping the Ka’ba on left hand side (counter clock-wise). Istlam should be performed during each circle. It is also permitted to perform Istlam of Rukun-e-Yemeni (Pillar of Yemen). The seventh circle ends at the Hajr-e-Aswad.


G.   Nawafal at Muqam-e-Ibrahim

After completing the Tawaaf, the pilgrim should move to the Muqam-e-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim. At this place one should offer two Rakats of prayer while facing Ka’ba.


H.   Sa’ee (Running between Safa’ and Marwah)


Allah the Exalted has said the Holy Quran:

“Surely, Al-Safa and Al-Marwah are among the Signs of Allah. It is, therefore, no sin for him who is on pilgrimage to the House, or performs Umra, to go round the two. And whoso does good beyond what is obligatory, surely then, Allah is Appreciating, All-Knowing.” (2:159)

After praying two Rakats of prayer at Muqam-e-Ibrahim, the pilgrim then moves to “Safa”. At this place, he should face towards Ka’ba and recite Durood, Takbir and Talbiyah. The he should walk briskly towards Marwah and recite the same at Marwah. This counts as one circuit. Now one should move to Safa’ and repeat the prayers. One should complete seven circuits between Safa’ and Marwah. These circuits are called Sa’ee.

After performing the circuits between Safa’ and Marwah, one is free to move about and go to a resting place.


I.  Arriving at Mina

On 8th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrims reach at Mina early in the morning after performing Tawaaf-Qudoom. A pilgrim offers Duhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha’ prayers at Mina and camp there for the night.


J.   Arriving at Arafat

On 9th day of Dul-Hajj, after offering Fajr prayer, a pilgrim should move to Arafat. Stay at Arafat is called Waqoof and is the most important part of Hajj. Without this, Hajj cannot be considered complete. If someone misses Waqoof, he should perform Hajj the following year. One listens to the sermon at the plane of Arafat and offers combined Zuhr and Asr prayers. One should stay at Arafat till sunset (Maghrib).


K.   Arriving at Muzdalifah

One leaves Arafat after sunset and reaches Muzdalifah in the evening of 9th Dul-Hajj. Combined Maghrib and Isha’ prayers are offered at Muzdalifah. The pilgrims spend the night at Muzdalifah.


L.   Departure from Muzdalifah

On the 10th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrims offer their Fajr prayer as early in the morning as possible. After the Fajr prayer a pilgrim leaves Muzdalifah and arrive at Mina. On the way to Mina one should pick up seventy small stones. As soon as he reaches Mina, he should cast seven stones at Jumrah-tul-Aqba. This act of throwing stones is called Rami. With the throwing of the first stone the requirement to repeatedly recite Talbiyah is lifted. If the pilgrim intends to sacrifice an animal then he should do that after casting stones ad Jumrah-tul-Aqba. After offering the sacrifices a male pilgrim should have his head shaven and female pilgrims are required to cut a small part of her hair. Femle pilgrims are not permitted to have their heads shaven. After the hair cut one can remove the Ihram and may now wear regular cloths.


M.  Return to Mecca after sacrifice and hair cut. Perform Taawaf-e-Afaza

After the removal of Ihram the pilgrim is required to return to Mecca to perform another circuit of the Ka’ba. This particular circuit is called Tawaaf-e-Afaza (additional circuit) and is an essential part of the pilgrimage. After this circuit a pilgrim is permitted to return to normal life and all those lawful things that were forbidden are now allowed again.


N.   Return to Mina after Tawaf-e-Afaza

After this additional circuit, the pilgrim should return to Mina and stay there for three days. During the stay at Mina on 11th, 12th and 13th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrim cast seven stones on each of the Jumrah in the following order: Jumrah-tul-Oola, Jamrah-tul-Wusta, and Juramh-tul-Aqba. It is permitted not to cast stones on the third day.

O.   Return to Ka’ba and Farewell

On the 12th or the 13th day of Dul-Hajj, the pilgrim returns to the Ka’ba and perform a final circuit. This circuit is called Tawaf-al-Sadr or Tawaf-al-Wida (parting or farewell circuit). After this last circuit, the pilgrim should drink water from Zumzum, kiss the threshold of the door of the Ka’ba, and pray to Allah for forgiveness. He should leave the Ka’ba walking backwards, looking at it the last time, and saying farewell.


7.   Prohibitions During the Pilgrimage



It is forbidden to have a hair cut during Hajj or to wear sewn clothes. Pilgrims should offer Fidya (redemption) if he has to wear sewn clothes or have to shave his head due to illness or lice.



Hunting is forbidden during the pilgrimage days. If the pilgrim hunts during these days then he has to offer the sacrifice of one animal. If he has hunted deer then a lamb should be sacrificed and of ostrich is hunted then camel should be sacrificed. If one cannot offer a sacrifice the he should feed six poor people and if that is not possible the he should fast for three days. Allah says in the Holy Quran:



  “O ye who believe! Kill not game while you are in a state of pilgrimage. And whoso amongst you kills it intentionally, its compensation is a quadruped like unto that which he has killed, as determined by two just men from among you, the dame to be brought as an offering to the Ka’ba; or as an expiation he shall have to feed a number of poor persons, or fast an equivalent number of days, so that he may taste the penalty of his deed. As for the past, Allah forgives it; but whoso reverts to it, Allah will punish him for his offense. And Allah is Mighty, Lord of retribution.

The game of the sea and the eating thereof have been made lawful for you as a provision for you and the travelers, but forbidden to you is the game of land as long as you are in a state of pilgrimage. And fear Allah to Whom you shall be gathered.

Allah has made the Ka’ba the inviolable House as a mean of support and uplift of mankind, as also the Sacred Month and the offerings and the animals with collars. That is so that you may know that Allah knows what is in the heavens and what is in the earth, and that Allah knows all things well.

Know that Allah is sever in punishment and that Allah is also Most Forgiving, Merciful.” (5:95-98)

If the pilgrim has sexual intercourse with his/her spouse before the first Tawaaf the Hajj will become invalid or unlawful. He/she should continue to perform all the duties of the pilgrimage but he/she has to perform pilgrimage again the next year. Moreover he/she has to sacrifice a camel at Mina to atone the violation.


8.   Ahsari

If some difficulty arises after entering the state of Ihram for the Hajj or Umra (i.e., illness, resistance by enemy to prevent from reaching Mecca) then the sacrifice of an animal should be offered and the Ihram removed. We read in the Holy Quran: “ … but if you are kept back, then make whatever offering is easily available; and do not shave your heads until the offering reaches its destination … “ (2:197).


9.  Umra

To simply circuit the Ka’ba and perform the seven circuits between Safa and Marwah is called Umra. There is no fixed time for Umra and it can be performed at any time during the year except between the 9th and the 13th of Dul-Hajj (these days are only reserved for the full pilgrimage or Hajj). Entering into the state of Ihram and removal of Ihram is carried out in the same manner as for the full pilgrimage.


10. Types Of Hajj:


There are three types of Hajj:

a.  Hajj Mufrad:


All conditions of the Hajj Mufrad are same as described above. One enters into the state of Ihram for Hajj only and no Umra is performed before Hajj.

b.  Hajj Tamattu :

This is Hajj when Umra is performed before the Hajj. The pilgrim removes Ihram for Umra on the 8th of Dul Hajj and re-enters into the state of Ihram again for Hajj.


c.  Hajj Qiran:

In this Hajj, the pilgrim enters into the state of Ihram for both Umra and the Hajj at one time.


11. Places of Hajj inside Mecca

A.  Ka'aba:

The focus of the pilgrimage is Ka’ba which was rebuilt by Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) some 4000 years ago. Today, Ka’ba stands in the middle of a large courtyard of Masjid-el-Haram or the sacred Mosque. The courtyard of Masjid-el-Haram contains, besides Ka’ba, the Muqam-e-Ibrahim (place of Ibrahim) and the fountain of Zumzum.



Ka’ba is the first house ever that was built for the worship of One and Only God, Allah. It is also called “Bait-Ullah” (House of Allah), “Bait-ul-Ateeq” (the Oldest House), and Baitul Ma’amoor (Inhabited House).



Muslims, all over the world, face towards Ka’ba to offer their prayers. This house and the places around it have several signs that have been manifested by Allah. Every inch of this land testifies to the fact that Allah never destroys those who offer sacrifices. To commemorate Allah’s signs and to enhance their faith that Allah truly fulfils His promise, Muslims have been ordered to pay homage to the Ka’ba and these other Signs of Allah. Allah the Exalted, says in the Holy Quran:




“Surely, the first House founded for mankind is that at Becca (the valley of Mecca), abounding in blessings and a guidance for all peoples. In it are manifest signs; it is the place of Abraham; and whoso enters it, enters peace” (3:96-97)

Hadrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) laid a foundation stone for a community in a deserted place by the order of All-Mighty Allah. The he settled his wife, Hajira, and his son, Ishmael, at this place. There was no water at this place and it was not a part of any thoroughfare. The ultimate goal of this unparalleled sacrifice was that his place should serve as a center of universal guidance; that from the progeny of Hadrat Ishmael living in this area would come the greatest prophet whose advent marked the sole cause for the creation of this universe and who would be a mercy for all mankind. The teaching that he brought down would be for the entire world and for all times. In spite of having no sign of any provisions at this place, Hadrat Ibrahim’s (peace be upon him) expectations were superceded. Allah made provisions for water at that place. Slowly the place became populated and was called Becca or Mecca. This was the place where Hadrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) found lost signs of the first House of Allah that was built for His worship and re-built this house with the help of his son. He fervently prayed to Allah to make this house the “Place for Humanity”.



B.  Hajr-e-Aswad (The Black Stone)

There is a black stone in the north-eastern corner of the Ka’ba. This stone is called Hajr-e-Aswad (Black Stone). This stone was probably part of a meteoroid that fell near Mecca on a mountain called Abu Qubais. At the time of construction of Ka’ba, Hadrat Ibrahim brought it down and placed in the corner of the Ka’ba as a great sign and a monument. Anyone who performs pilgrimage is expected to kiss this memorial stone. This stone is part of Allah’s mark and is a sign of Him being the Supreme Being. One loves things that belong to one’s beloved. The same philosophy exists behind kissing the stone. This stone has no power and it provides neither benefit nor harm to anyone.


C.  Hateem

A short distance away from Ka’ba towards North there is an open space.The place has small walls around it but there is no ceiling.There is a tradition of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) that suggests that this place was left without a roof because not enough wood was available to cover the entire building.A pilgrim should keep this place inside the Tawaaf but it is not right to face towards this place when offering prayers.


D.  Multazam

The southern part of the wall between the door of the Ka’ba and the black stone is called Multazam. At the completion of the pilgrimage the pilgrims embrace this part of the wall. This is one way of saying good-bye and a way of expression of extreme love for the House of Allah.


E. Rukun-e-Yemeni

The north-western corner of the Ka’ba faces towards Yemen and this is why it is called Rukun-e-Yemeni (Yemen’s Pillar). It is not appropriate to touch or kiss this part during making a circuit of the Holy Ka’ba.

 

F.  Mutaaf


There is a circle of white stone around the Ka’ba. This is the place where the circuit of the Holy Ka’ba is performed during the pilgrimage. The circuit of the Holy Ka’ba is an integral part of the worship offered seven times during Hajj.



G.  Muqam-e-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim)

There is a small round-shaped building in front of the door of the Ka’ba and the Multazam. This building has a stone that was used by Hadrat Ibrahim to stand on to complete the walls of the Ka’ba. This is called Muqam-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim). After completing the seventh circuit during the pilgrimage, two Raka’t of prayer are offered. One gets more blessings if these Raka’ts are offered at the Place of Ibrahim.

 

H. Zumzum


A small well is present on the left side of the Place of Ibrahim and to the east of the Ka’ba. This well appeared as a sign when the child Ishmael rubbed his heels on the ground due to his thirst. One drinks water from this well facing the Ka’ba to get blessings.

 

I.  Masjid-el-Haram

Around the Ka’ba is a mosque that has a rectangular shape with rounded corners. Pilgrims offer prayers in this mosque by making circular rows and face towards the Ka’ba.

 

J.  Al-Safa and Al-Marwa

Two small hills in Mecca were located in the north of Masjid-el-Haram. Now these hills have been flattened. Hadrat Hajirah ran seven times between these two hills in search of food and water. Pilgrims are ordained to follow her footsteps and go to these hills seven times.

12.  Places Outside of Mecca

 

A. Mina

There is an open ground three miles to the east of Mecca called Mina. There are three stone pillars in this ground that are called Jumrat representing Satan. These stones are called Jumrah-tul-Oola, Jumrah-tul-Wusta, and Jumrah-tul-Aqbah. During the last day of Hajj, the 10th Dul-Hajj and three Tashriq days, pilgrims are required to cast stones at these Jumrah. This act of casting stones at Jumrah is called Ramy al-jimar (throwing small stones). Thousands of animals are sacrificed on this ground to commemorate the great sacrifice of Hadrat Ibrahim and Hadrat Ishmael.

B.  Arafat
On the 9th day of Dul Hajj pilgrims gather in a great ground that is located about 9 miles to the southeast Mecca. This ground is called Arafat. Pilgrims stay at this place from the time of Duhr prayer until Maghrib. Jabalu-Rahmat is a small hill that also stands on this ground. A pilgrim is required to stay at this ground for his/her pilgrimage to be acceptable.

C.  Muzdalifah

This ground is located roughly three miles from Arafat towards Mina. A small hill Mash’ar-al-Haraam is present in this field. Pilgrims spend the night of 9ht Dul Hajj in this field on their way back from Arafat. They offer Maghrib and Isha prayers combined and then Fajr prayer on the morning of the 10th day of Dul Hajj at this place. Pilgrims are commanded to remember Allah after the Fajr prayer near the mountains of Mash’ar-ul-Haraam.


D.  Muwaqiat


Muwaqiat is the plural of Miqat. This is the place where pilgrims enter into the state of Ihram. It is forbidden to go any further from this place without entering the state of Ihram. Ihram is not only wearing specific clothing but it is also a sincere intention to perform the pilgrimage. There are several placed to enter into the state of Ihram that are marked as Miqat depending upon the route taken towards Mecca. Following are the well-known places where the Pilgrims enter into the state of Ihram.


a.  Mecca

Pilgrims who live in and around Mecca enter into the state of Ihram in their homes. People can enter into the state of Ihram before leaving their homes. It is not absolutely necessary for “local” pilgrims to enter into the state of Ihram at the Mawaqit, however, it is forbidden to proceed any further from these place without being in the state of Ihram for the people coming from other locations.

b.  Dul-Hulaifah:

Five miles from Madina towards Mecca is a small village. Pilgrims arriving from Madina and from its surrounding areas are required to replace their usual clothes with Ihram at this place


c.  Juhfah

This place located about forty miles to the south of Mecca. Pilgrims arriving from Egypt, Syria and Southern Africa are required to enter into the state of Ihram at this place.


d.  Zaat-ul-Irq

Located about thirty miles from Mecca, the pilgrims coming from Iraq and by land from the eastern side enter into the state of Ihram at this place.


e.  Qarn-al-Manazil

Located about 40 miles to the east of Mecca, the Pilgrims arriving from Yemen and by sea enter into the state of Ihram at this place.


f.  Taneem

This place is near Mecca and acts as Miqat for people living in Mecca. If someone is living in Mecca and wants to perform Umra then he should go to this place, enter into the state of Ihram and then return to Mecca so that the condition of traveling for the pilgrims is also fulfilled. The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) has said: “Part of the worship of Hajj and Umra is to travel in the way of Allah and to go out of the city.”


E.  Haram

Mecca and its surrounding areas are called Haram. Haram has different boundaries. These boundaries extend to three miles on one side, seven on the other and nine miles towards Jedda. Within these boundaries of Haram it is forbidden to hunt, bother any animal, or to cut grass or trees. One is permitted to kill dangerous animals like snakes, scorpions, rats or animals with rabies (dogs, etc.)

Hajj-Mecca,
Trying to stone the devil, they begin to stone themselves, some have resorted to dying there.
Such a shame

pataki kep ur thot and feelings

@ Mukina2,
I am only standing up for what I believe in, so as not fall for all the makeup stories of yours here

pataki
well close ur eyes and move on

@ Mukinatu ,
Have you ever tried to participate in stoning the devil at Mecca?
Have you ever tried to participate in removing your tooth for a golden tooth?

Maybe then I can close my eyes and move on.
God Bless You.

It is said that the Saudi Authorities worked well in easing movement problems and preventing deaths in the "stoning of the Devil" act this Hajj.

For More Info Check:
http://travelvideo.tv/news/more.php?id=10825_0_1_0_M


May God Allow them improve on this feat in subsequent Hajjs.

@ abdkabir,
I dont believe in propaganda news! I know of a man who travelled to Mecca never to return, got stoned while stoning the devil! Or was it the devil who stoned him now

Is there no proper structure in place, for those who never had the opportunity of throwing stones in their youthful days, who get the priviledge in Mecca, now end up stoning their own brother?

mukina2:


E. Haram

Mecca and its surrounding areas are called Haram. Haram has different boundaries. These boundaries extend to three miles on one side, seven on the other and nine miles towards Jedda. Within these boundaries of Haram it is forbidden to hunt, bother any animal, or to cut grass or trees.

One is permitted to kill dangerous animals like snakes, scorpions, rats or animals with rabies (dogs, etc.)

Of all the above contradictions Mukinatu, I found this eye catching! Maybe babs the Ogboni man can help you out here.

How is that you are not allowed to hunt animals and yet again, you are permitted to kill dangerous animals