lol. . .really? I am always around NL too but i do more of reading than posting on thread this days. . .no time and i v left naija ooo. . .when u come online we wud discuss. .  .hajia ke? still hopig on Allah oooo. . .

I would try to make it online soonest cos tory plenty sef Olorun yio se eyi ti o dara.

Did u read my plea on the other thread? What's your opinion?

Salam Sister,

I would check and get back.

Maa Salam and I hope you are preparing for 'THE NIGHT OF MAJESTY'?

@Javalove

Alhaji Sheikh Woli. . .lol

lol lol lol lol. I am still yours truly, omo kewu o and still learning from you all .

Eku ojo 3. . .

E yin na e ku ijo meji making 5 days . I am always around on NL.

U dont come on ym again ni?

I do sir but once in a while. How body and family and I hope Hajia is on the way and you would be inviting us soonest?

Ten Blessed Nights

The last ten nights of Ramadan are very special. These are the nights that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to spend in constant worship, du`aa’ and dhikr.

The last third of Ramadan is the time for release from Hellfire, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said in a Hadith reported by Salman Al-Farisi: ", The first third of the month of Ramadan is the time for mercy, the second third is for forgiveness, the third is for release from Hellfire…" (Ibn Khuzaymah)

Laylat Al-Qadr is your time to live with sincerity, joy and with a real sweetness that you will experience - the sweetness of Iman. Even if you were to live one thousand nights with sincerity and dedication, this one night is much better. It is the night when the seal of the Prophets received the seal of revelations; the Glorious Qur'an.

If you are interested in living the Night of Power, and obtaining the treasures of the last 10 days, if you have the intention and determination, let us remind you of some of the things that you should do.

Wake Up the Family

`A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: "During the last ten nights of Ramadan, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would tighten his waist belt and spend the night in worship. He would also wake up his family."[/b] (Al-Bukhari)

Umm Salamah relates that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) woke her up one night, and said: "Glory be to Allah! What trials have been sent down during this night! What trials have been sent down, so that the denizens of the bedchambers will be awakened! O Lord! To be clothed in this world by being naked in the Hereafter."[b] (Al-Bukhari)

Love and Be Loved

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) told us that Allah the Almighty says,

"My servant does not draw close to Me with anything as he does by carrying out what I have made obligatory upon him. My servant continues drawing closer to Me by performing optional deeds such that I love him, and when I love him I am his hearing with which he hears, his sight by which he sees, his hand with which he strikes, and his leg with which he walks. Were he to ask of Me I would surely give him and were he to ask Me for refuge I would surely grant it to him."[/b]

[b]Be a Thankful Believer

Narrated Al-Mughira:

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to stand in prayer or pray till both his feet or legs swelled. He was asked why (he offered such an unbearable prayer) and he said, "Should I not be a thankful slave?" (Al-Bukhari)[/b]
[b]
Exerting Oneself in Worship

`A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: "I had never known Allah's Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) to read the entire Qur'an in a single night, or to spend the whole night in prayer until the morning, or to spend a whole month in fasting – except in Ramadan."[/b] (An-Nasa'i and Ibn Majah)

And, "The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would exert himself in worship during the last ten nights more than at any other time of the year." [b](Muslim)

She (may Allah be pleased with her) also told us that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would "tighten his waist belt", (devote oneself fully to this task.)

Make Up for What You Might Have Missed

Almighty Allah is the Oft- Forgiving, the Compassionate and Merciful. He loves this Ummah and loves to forgive and have mercy upon its believers. He gives them chance after chance so that they would return to Him. The last 10 days are simply 'another chance' for those who missed the first 20 days and need to repent. The chance is still there and the doors are wide open. So, do not miss them again!

(Say: "O my Servants who have transgressed against their souls! Despair not of the Mercy of Allah: for Allah forgives all sins: for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.)[/b] (Az-Zumar 39:53)

[b]Seeking Laylat Al-Qadr

A Muslim should seek this special night by spending the last ten nights of Ramadan engaged in various acts of worship. These include reading the Qur'an, dhikr, and begging Allah's forgiveness

Ibrahim al-Nakha`i says: "Good deeds performed on this night are better than those performed consistently for a thousand months."[/b]

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) related that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Whoever spends Laylat Al-Qadr in prayer, believing in Allah and seeking His reward, all his past sins will be forgiven."[b] (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Allah the Almighty says: (Laylat Al-Qadris better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the permission of their Lord, with every decree. (This night is) peace, until the rising of the dawn.) (Al-Qadr 97: 3-5)

Retreat in the Mosque (i`tikaf)

Observing a retreat in the mosque is of the best things we can do during the last ten nights of Ramadan. `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) told us: "The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to observe a retreat in the mosque during the last ten nights of Ramadan up until he died. His wives continued to observe this practice after his death."[/b] (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The practice of i`tikaf helps us to devote our hearts exclusively to Almighty Allah. The person engaging in i`tikaf keeps this intention close to mind and seeks the blessings ofAlmighty Allah. It is important that he does not forget the reason why he is observing this retreat.

[b]Generosity

We are encouraged to be extra generous during the last ten nights of Ramadan. Ibn `Abbas related: "Allah's Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) was the most generous of all people in doing good, and he was at his most generous during the month of Ramadan. Jibreel used to meet with him every year throughout the month of Ramadan, so the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) could recite the Qur'an to him. Whenever Jibreel met with him, he became more generous than a beneficial breeze." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)[/b]

Al-Nawawi says: "Generosity and open-handedness are strongly encouraged in Ramadan, especially during the last ten nights. By doing so, we emulate the example of Allah's Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) as well as that of our Pious Predecessors, "[b]

Remembrance and Dhikr

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Indeed, this world, with all it contains, is cursed, except for the remembrance of Allah and what follows it from deeds pleasing to Allah, scholars (of religion) and seekers of knowledge.”"[/b] (Tirmidhi).

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Our Lord, the Blessed, the Superior, comes every night down on the nearest Heaven to us when the last third of the night remains, saying: "Is there anyone to invoke Me, so that I may respond to his invocation? Is there anyone to ask Me, so that I may grant him his request? Is there anyone seeking My forgiveness, so that I may forgive him?" (Muslim)[b]

Seek Acceptance

`Ubadah ibn As-Samit (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Whoever gets up at night and says: -- 'La ilaha il-lallah wahdahu la sharika lahu lahu-l-mulk, wa lahu-l-hamd wahuwa 'ala kullishai'in Qadir. Alhamdu lil-lahi wa subhanal-lahi wa la-ilaha il-lal-lah wa-l-lahu akbar wa la hawla Wala Quwata il-la-bil-lah.[/b]'

(None has the right to be worshipped but Allah. He is the Only One and has no partners. For Him is the Kingdom and all praises are due to Him. He is Omnipotent. All praises are due to Allah. All glory is due to Allah. And none has the right to be worshipped but Allah, and Allah is Great and there is neither Might nor Power Except with Allah). And then says: -- Allahumma, Ighfir li (O Allah! Forgive me). Or invokes (Allah), he will be responded to and if he performs ablution (and prays), his prayer will be accepted." (Al-Bukhari)

[b]Du`aa’ of Laylat Al-Qadr

Imam Ahmad recorded from `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), that she said, “"O Messenger of Allah! If I find the Night of Laylat Al-Qadr what should I say?”" He replied, "Say: "Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuhibbul'afwa fa'fu'annee (O Allah! Verily, You are the Oft-Pardoning, You love to pardon, so pardon me)." [/b](At-Tirmidhi)

[b]Make a Personal Du`aa’ List

Ask yourself what you really want from Almighty Allah. Make a list of each and every thing, no matter how small or big it is, and whether it deals with this world or not. Almighty Allah loves to hear from us. Once you did, be sure that Allah will answer your du`aa', either by giving you what you wanted , or by giving you a better thing, or changing your Du`aa' to hassanat (good deeds) that weighs in your scale when you meet Him.

Make Up With Other Muslims

Quarrelling and disagreement was the reason why the exact day of Laylat Al-Qadr was not revealed to us, so we should not lose its reward by making the same mistake.

`Ubadah ibn As-Samit (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) came out to inform us about the Night of Qadr but two Muslims were quarreling with each other. Therefore, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "I came out to inform you about Laylat Al-Qadr but such-and-such persons were quarreling, so the news about it was taken away; yet that might be for your own good, so search for it on the 29th, 27th and 25th (of Ramadan). [/b](Al-Bukhari)

[b]Evaluate Yourself

Ask yourself the questions that need to be asked. Evaluate where you are and where you are going. Let this evaluation lead you to feel happiness for the good you have done and remorse for the bad you have done.

Salam all.

It is quite unfortunate that I could not make it. There is nothing like brotherhood and sisterhood in Islam. May Allah grant us long life, good health to be able to witness more. Insha, I would try to be able available for next gatherings but would appreciate having the pics.

Maa Salam.

[b]GUNNERS TILL I DIE :[/b]D

Narrated Abu Huraira (may Allah have mercy on him)

The Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said, “Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded; and gain strength by worshipping in the mornings, the nights.”

Sahih Bukhari Volume 1, Book 2, Number 38

Barka Jumuah

The Fasting of Ramadan: A Time for Thought, Action, and Change!

"Fasting in Ramadan develops in a person the real spirit of social belonging, of unity and brotherhood, and of equality before God. This spirit is the natural product of the fact that when people fast they feel that they are joining the whole Muslim society (which makes up more than one fifth of world's population) in observing the same duty, in the same manner, at the same time, for the same motives, and for the same end. No sociologist or historian can say that there has been at any period of history anything comparable to this powerful institution of Islam: Fasting in the month of Ramadan. People have been crying throughout the ages for acceptable 'belonging', for unity, for brotherhood, for equality, but how echoless their voices have been, and how very little success they have met, " says Hammudah Abdalati, in Islam in Focus.

"What is fasting?" "How does the fasting of Muslims in Ramadan differ from the fasting of other faiths?" "Why should one 'torture' one's body in the first place?" "What do you really gain from fasting in the end?", These are a few questions that a number of non-Muslim friends and colleagues often ask us, usually out of fascination with this spiritually-uplifting practice of Islamic faith, and at times out of pity and sympathy for us, thinking, why should anyone suffer from hunger and thirst like Muslims? I wouldn't be surprised if many of us shared the same negative perception of Fasting.

It is important to note that Fasting in Arabic is called, "Sawm", which literally means 'to be at rest'. Fasting in the month of Ramadan (the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar) is one of the Five Pillars upon which the "house" of Islam is built. During this month, every able-bodied Muslim, is required to fast, everyday from dawn until dusk

12 Reasons to Fast!

1.Fasting is an institution for the improvement of moral and spiritual character of human being. The purpose of the fast is to help develop self-restraint, self-purification, God-consciousness, compassion, the spirit of caring and sharing, the love of humanity and the love of God. Fasting is a universal custom and is advocated by all the religions of the world, with more restrictions in some than in others. The Islamic Fast, as opposed to mere starvation or self-denial, is an act of worship and obedience to God, thanksgiving, forgiveness, spiritual training, and self-examination.

2. Ramadan gives us a break and provides us with a rare opportunity to think about our own selves, our future, and our families. It is a time to give our selves a mental break and to temporarily forget about the hundreds of worries and stresses we are constantly bombarded with. In hectic times, such as ours, and in places like the West, this valuable time to think about our lives, on individual basis, is a luxury and is desperately needed! It is a unique month of self-analysis, and of taking stock of one's moral and spiritual 'assets and liabilities'.

3.Fasting indoctrinates us in patience, unselfishness, and gratitude. When we fast we feel the pains of deprivation and hunger, and learn how to endure it patiently. The meaning of this powerful experience in a social and humanitarian context is that we are much quicker than anybody else in sympathizing with the oppressed and needy around the world, and responding to their needs. "It is the month to visit the poor, the sick, and the needy to share their sorrows. It is the month where the food, sustenance and the earnings of a believing Muslim increases and they are blessed," says the Final Prophet of God, Muhammad (peace be upon him), a man who was known for his noble humanitarian causes, for social justice, and for being the first to respond to other's needs, despite the fact that he himself lived a very simple and humble life. It is only during such a trying time as Ramadan that we can reflect on the condition of those in this world who may not be as fortunate as us.

4.Fasting in Ramadan enables us to master the art of mature adaptability and Time-Management. We can easily understand this point when we realize that fasting makes people change the entire course of their daily life. When they make the change, they naturally adapt themselves to a new system and schedule, and move along to satisfy the rules. This, in the long run, develops in them a wise sense of adaptability and self-created power to overcome the unpredictable hardships of life! A person who values constructive adaptability, time-management, and courage will appreciate the effects of Fasting in this respect as well.

5. It cultivates in us the principle of sincere Love, because when we observe Fasting, we do it out of deep love for God. And a person, who loves God, truly is a person who knows what love is and why everyone on this Earth should be loved and treated justly, for the sake of God.

6.Fasting elevates the human spirit and increases our awareness of God. It strengthens our will-power as we learn to rise above our lower desires. The institution of fasting is both unique and a shared experience in human history. From the very beginning of time, humans have struggled to master their physical and psychological selves: their bodies and their emotions. Hunger is one the most powerful urges that we experience. Many, through over- or under-eating or consumption of unhealthy foods, abuse this urge. Thus, when a person purposefully denies something to their own self that it craves, they are elevating their mind above their body, and their reason and will above their carnal passions. "A fasting person empties his stomach of all the material things: to fill his soul with peace and blessings, to fill his heart with love and sympathy, to fill his spirit with piety and Faith, to fill his mind with wisdom and resolution," says H. Abdalati in Islam in Focus. The person who can rule their desires and make them work, as they like, has attained true moral excellence.

7.With the clarity of mind and absence of distractions, also comes a greater focus. As students, the period of fasting, especially early during the day, serves as a tool to focus our minds on our academics. In the month of Ramadan, many Muslims try to avoid watching TV, listening to music, and some other leisure activities, which spares them more time and energy to be spent on more productive activities such as academics, intense study of Islam, voluntary prayers, social and humanitarian causes, and a quality time with the family, to name a few. It is a reminder of our duty to God, our purpose and higher values in life, as God Himself describes the purpose of fasting as follows, "O you who Believe! Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may develop consciousness of God" (Quran 2:183).

8.Fasting has numerous, scientifically proven, benefits for our physical health and mental well-being. The time, length and nature of the Islamic Fast all contribute to its overall positive effect. One of the medical benefits is a much-needed rest to the digestive system. The reduced food intake during the day allows the body to concentrate on getting rid of harmful dietary toxins accumulated as natural by-products of food digestion throughout the year. The length of the Islamic Fast itself (around 12-14 hours) is in sync with the 'transit time' of food from the mouth to the colon of the large intestine, ensuring that no stimulus reaches the stomach or digestive system while it remains in homeostasis. Therefore, for the vast majority of healthy individuals fasting poses no medical risks but in fact provides many health benefits, such as: an increase in serum Magnesium, essential for cardio-vascular health and prevention of heart complications; improvement in the quality and depth of sleep; improvement in memory and slower skin aging over time; increased production of growth hormone, etc. Also, as a general note, it has been observed that underfed animals live longer than their heavily fed counterparts and suffer fewer illnesses during their lives.

9.The month of Ramadan provides us with a sort of "Boot camp." It is a month of intense moral training. Since we know that Fasting is a special duty prescribed by God, we learn that any sins may spoil our record of fasting with God, so we go through great lengths making sure we are on our best behavior. Many people who experience fasting in this month, feel the impact that this intense training has on their habits, and realize the power of this transformative tool designed to make us better human beings- the ultimate goal of any spiritual exercise. The entire Ramadan atmosphere provides the driving force for this positive change.

10.It makes us realize the reality of life and death. Fasting makes us realize how dependant our lives are on things that we often take for granted, such as food and water. It makes us think about our dependence on God and God's mercy and justice. Moreover, it reminds us of the life after death, which itself has a great impact on our character and our world-view.

11.Ramadan is a blessed month for a special reason: It is actually the month in which God first revealed His final message and guidance for mankind to our beloved Prophet Muhammad. This message has been perfectly preserved both orally and textually in the form of a Book, called the Qur'an (The Reading/Recital). Therefore, Muslims try to do an intense study of the Quran in this month especially, and evaluate their lives according to the standards and guidance contained in it.

12. After the month of Ramadan is over, Muslims celebrate one of the two most important holidays in the Islamic year: EID-UL-FITR, or the Festival of the Fast Breaking. It is a day to thank God for the blessing and training that He provides us with throughout the month of Ramadan. EID-UL-FITR is marked by praying in a huge congregation at an Islamic center or mosque, and by giving a small donation to the poor in the community. The adults give the donation on behalf of their children as well. Dinner parties, family outings, fairs, carnivals, and great joyous celebrations follow the prayer and charity.

In a nutshell, even though the real purpose of the dynamic institution of Fasting is to discipline our soul and moral behavior, and to develop sympathy for the less fortunate, it is a multi-functional and a comprehensive tool of change in various spheres of our lives, including: social and economic, intellectual and humanitarian, spiritual and physical, private and public, personal and common, inner and outer ---all in one!

restored.

@Azharuddin

assalamualaikum
If you dont mind, can you share the name of this book.

Salam dear brother, I am just seeing your post hence my late response. The title of the book is 'The judgement day; sign, stages, symbols and proceedings by Zafaran Adeniyi.


Maa Salam.

Narrated Abu Huraira (RA): Allah's Apostle (SAW) said, "Allah said, 'All the deeds of Adam's sons (people) are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.' Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committin, g sins. If one of you is fasting, he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarreling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, 'I am fasting.' By Him in Whose Hands my soul is' The unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting."

Sahih Bukhari, Chapter ‘Fasting', Volume 3, Book 31, Hadith 128:

Barka Jumuah

The Fasting of Ramadan: A Time for Thought, Action, and Change!

"Fasting in Ramadan develops in a person the real spirit of social belonging, of unity and brotherhood, and of equality before God. This spirit is the natural product of the fact that when people fast they feel that they are joining the whole Muslim society (which makes up more than one fifth of world's population) in observing the same duty, in the same manner, at the same time, for the same motives, and for the same end. No sociologist or historian can say that there has been at any period of history anything comparable to this powerful institution of Islam: Fasting in the month of Ramadan. People have been crying throughout the ages for acceptable 'belonging', for unity, for brotherhood, for equality, but how echoless their voices have been, and how very little success they have met, " says Hammudah Abdalati, in Islam in Focus.

"What is fasting?" "How does the fasting of Muslims in Ramadan differ from the fasting of other faiths?" "Why should one 'torture' one's body in the first place?" "What do you really gain from fasting in the end?", These are a few questions that a number of non-Muslim friends and colleagues often ask us, usually out of fascination with this spiritually-uplifting practice of Islamic faith, and at times out of pity and sympathy for us, thinking, why should anyone suffer from hunger and thirst like Muslims? I wouldn't be surprised if many of us shared the same negative perception of Fasting.

It is important to note that Fasting in Arabic is called, "Sawm", which literally means 'to be at rest'. Fasting in the month of Ramadan (the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar) is one of the Five Pillars upon which the "house" of Islam is built. During this month, every able-bodied Muslim, is required to fast, everyday from dawn until dusk

12 Reasons to Fast!

1. Fasting is an institution for the improvement of moral and spiritual character of human being. The purpose of the fast is to help develop self-restraint, self-purification, God-consciousness, compassion, the spirit of caring and sharing, the love of humanity and the love of God. Fasting is a universal custom and is advocated by all the religions of the world, with more restrictions in some than in others. The Islamic Fast, as opposed to mere starvation or self-denial, is an act of worship and obedience to God, thanksgiving, forgiveness, spiritual training, and self-examination.

2.Ramadan gives us a break and provides us with a rare opportunity to think about our own selves, our future, and our families. It is a time to give our selves a mental break and to temporarily forget about the hundreds of worries and stresses we are constantly bombarded with. In hectic times, such as ours, and in places like the West, this valuable time to think about our lives, on individual basis, is a luxury and is desperately needed! It is a unique month of self-analysis, and of taking stock of one's moral and spiritual 'assets and liabilities'.

3. Fasting indoctrinates us in patience, unselfishness, and gratitude. When we fast we feel the pains of deprivation and hunger, and learn how to endure it patiently. The meaning of this powerful experience in a social and humanitarian context is that we are much quicker than anybody else in sympathizing with the oppressed and needy around the world, and responding to their needs. "It is the month to visit the poor, the sick, and the needy to share their sorrows. It is the month where the food, sustenance and the earnings of a believing Muslim increases and they are blessed," says the Final Prophet of God, Muhammad (peace be upon him), a man who was known for his noble humanitarian causes, for social justice, and for being the first to respond to other's needs, despite the fact that he himself lived a very simple and humble life. It is only during such a trying time as Ramadan that we can reflect on the condition of those in this world who may not be as fortunate as us.

4.Fasting in Ramadan enables us to master the art of mature adaptability and Time-Management. We can easily understand this point when we realize that fasting makes people change the entire course of their daily life. When they make the change, they naturally adapt themselves to a new system and schedule, and move along to satisfy the rules. This, in the long run, develops in them a wise sense of adaptability and self-created power to overcome the unpredictable hardships of life! A person who values constructive adaptability, time-management, and courage will appreciate the effects of Fasting in this respect as well.

5.It cultivates in us the principle of sincere Love, because when we observe Fasting, we do it out of deep love for God. And a person, who loves God, truly is a person who knows what love is and why everyone on this Earth should be loved and treated justly, for the sake of God.

6. Fasting elevates the human spirit and increases our awareness of God. It strengthens our will-power as we learn to rise above our lower desires. The institution of fasting is both unique and a shared experience in human history. From the very beginning of time, humans have struggled to master their physical and psychological selves: their bodies and their emotions. Hunger is one the most powerful urges that we experience. Many, through over- or under-eating or consumption of unhealthy foods, abuse this urge. Thus, when a person purposefully denies something to their own self that it craves, they are elevating their mind above their body, and their reason and will above their carnal passions. "A fasting person empties his stomach of all the material things: to fill his soul with peace and blessings, to fill his heart with love and sympathy, to fill his spirit with piety and Faith, to fill his mind with wisdom and resolution," says H. Abdalati in Islam in Focus. The person who can rule their desires and make them work, as they like, has attained true moral excellence.

7. With the clarity of mind and absence of distractions, also comes a greater focus. As students, the period of fasting, especially early during the day, serves as a tool to focus our minds on our academics. In the month of Ramadan, many Muslims try to avoid watching TV, listening to music, and some other leisure activities, which spares them more time and energy to be spent on more productive activities such as academics, intense study of Islam, voluntary prayers, social and humanitarian causes, and a quality time with the family, to name a few. It is a reminder of our duty to God, our purpose and higher values in life, as God Himself describes the purpose of fasting as follows, "O you who Believe! Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may develop consciousness of God" (Quran 2:183).

8.Fasting has numerous, scientifically proven, benefits for our physical health and mental well-being. The time, length and nature of the Islamic Fast all contribute to its overall positive effect. One of the medical benefits is a much-needed rest to the digestive system. The reduced food intake during the day allows the body to concentrate on getting rid of harmful dietary toxins accumulated as natural by-products of food digestion throughout the year. The length of the Islamic Fast itself (around 12-14 hours) is in sync with the 'transit time' of food from the mouth to the colon of the large intestine, ensuring that no stimulus reaches the stomach or digestive system while it remains in homeostasis. Therefore, for the vast majority of healthy individuals fasting poses no medical risks but in fact provides many health benefits, such as: an increase in serum Magnesium, essential for cardio-vascular health and prevention of heart complications; improvement in the quality and depth of sleep; improvement in memory and slower skin aging over time; increased production of growth hormone, etc. Also, as a general note, it has been observed that underfed animals live longer than their heavily fed counterparts and suffer fewer illnesses during their lives.

9. The month of Ramadan provides us with a sort of "Boot camp." It is a month of intense moral training. Since we know that Fasting is a special duty prescribed by God, we learn that any sins may spoil our record of fasting with God, so we go through great lengths making sure we are on our best behavior. Many people who experience fasting in this month, feel the impact that this intense training has on their habits, and realize the power of this transformative tool designed to make us better human beings- the ultimate goal of any spiritual exercise. The entire Ramadan atmosphere provides the driving force for this positive change.

10.It makes us realize the reality of life and death. Fasting makes us realize how dependant our lives are on things that we often take for granted, such as food and water. It makes us think about our dependence on God and God's mercy and justice. Moreover, it reminds us of the life after death, which itself has a great impact on our character and our world-view.

11.Ramadan is a blessed month for a special reason: It is actually the month in which God first revealed His final message and guidance for mankind to our beloved Prophet Muhammad. This message has been perfectly preserved both orally and textually in the form of a Book, called the Qur'an (The Reading/Recital). Therefore, Muslims try to do an intense study of the Quran in this month especially, and evaluate their lives according to the standards and guidance contained in it.

12.After the month of Ramadan is over, Muslims celebrate one of the two most important holidays in the Islamic year: EID-UL-FITR, or the Festival of the Fast Breaking. It is a day to thank God for the blessing and training that He provides us with throughout the month of Ramadan. EID-UL-FITR is marked by praying in a huge congregation at an Islamic center or mosque, and by giving a small donation to the poor in the community. The adults give the donation on behalf of their children as well. Dinner parties, family outings, fairs, carnivals, and great joyous celebrations follow the prayer and charity.

In a nutshell, even though the real purpose of the dynamic institution of Fasting is to discipline our soul and moral behavior, and to develop sympathy for the less fortunate, it is a multi-functional and a comprehensive tool of change in various spheres of our lives, including: social and economic, intellectual and humanitarian, spiritual and physical, private and public, personal and common, inner and outer ---all in one!

The month of innumerable blessings and mercies

The holy Prophet (SAW) says: "O people! The month of God (Ramadan) has come to you along with his mercy, blessing and forgiveness." In the estimation of God, this is the month that is best of all month; its days are best among all days; its nights are best among all night; and hours are best among all hours. He (SAW) also says:- Everything has a spring and the spring of the Qur'an is the holy month of Ramadan."

To a Muslim fasting is not just refraining from eating and drinking but covers the added significance of worship, psychological comfort, morality, and legislation. It is neither the irrational motionless 'Imsak' of pre Islamic Arabs nor the mere abstaining from eating and drinking but is in fact, the building of one's character, control over desires and an inspiration towards social and scientific creativity.

Fasting is one of the duties to be performed by all Muslims according to the Islamic Sharia. For one Lunar month a year, In Ramadan, everyday from dawn till sunset, it is obligatory upon every mukallaf (One who has reached maturity and thus must perform one’s Islamic duties) to fast, Allah (SWT) says:- 'O you who believe' fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may have taqwa" (Q2:183).

The holy Prophet (SAW) said: "keep the fast and break it (at the proper time) and stand in prayer and devotion (in the night) and have sleep.

Also the holy Prophet (SAW) said" the gates of paradise are opened and that of the hell fire are closed for those who perform virtuous act during this month. The accursed Satan is shackled in this month.

The followings are some of the sayings of the holy Prophet (SAW) concerning the virtues of the fasting in this month of Ramadan.

1. When the month of Ramadan comes, the doors of paradise are opened and the doors of hell are closed and the devils are tied.

2. "O Muslims! Such a great month is about to over shadow you that one night (Qadr night) in this month is more useful than a thousand months.

3. This month is such a month that it is compassion in its early days, pardon, and forgiveness in the middle, and liberation from the hell in the late days.

4. Doing a little favour for Allah's sake in this month is like doing the obligatory things in other months.

5. Allah (SWT) says in Hadith Al-Qudsi:- Fasting is for me and the reward is from me.

6. Giving something to a fellow Muslim brother/Sister something to breakfast even if it is water, half date or any lawful food will attract a great reward to that person.

7. This is the month in which you have been invited (as a guest of Allah) to receive the hospitality of Allah; you have been selected as the recipients of honors from Allah.

8. Your breathing is praise and your sleeping is worship; your good deeds are accepted in this month-so are your innovations.

9. The angels are engaged in asking forgiveness of you from Allah (SWT).

10. In this month of Ramadan, reading a verse from the holy Qur'an is like reading the whole Qur'an in other months.

11. The first night of Ramadan Allah (SWT) regards the beleivers with compassion; he never torments a born servant, of his whom He regards with compassion.

12. At the time of Iftar (breakfast) the fasting person's breath smells to Allah (SWT) more fragrant than any scent.

13. In Ramadan Allah (SWT) allots a place in the paradise to give those who fast in the next world.

14. This month is the month of taqwa, the month of the spring of the Qur'an, the month of forgiveness, prayers and Du'as and lastly the best of all months.

15. In this month Allah (SWT) forgives the sins of all believers who have fasted with sincerity and devotion.

May Allah (SWT) accept our fasting, prayers, du'as, and all our good deeds in this month and may he provide us with good things here and hereafter- ameen.

@Jarus

Salam

I read your message but could not reply, I do not understand the reason. My family is doing perfectly okay and I hope yours is doing same.

Ramadhan Kareem till I hear from you.

I am very sorry for trying to derail the thread, I felt it would be the ideal thread to get across to you.

Maa Salam.

The Essence of Ramadan

Like other Islamic injunctions, the benefits of Ramadan are not limited to either "spiritual" or "temporal" elements of life. In Islam, the spiritual, social, economic, political and psychological intermingle in a consistent and cohesive whole. For convenience of presentation, the significance of fasting is discussed under four subheadings; spiritual and moral, psychological, social, and physical and medical.

Spiritual and Moral Elements

1- Above all, fasting is an act of obedience and submission to Allah the Almighty. Submission and commitment is based upon love for Almighty Allah and earnest effort to gain His pleasure and avoid His displeasure. If this is the only reason for fasting, it surely suffices.

2- Fasting is an act acknowledging Allah the Almighty as the Only Master and Sustainer of the universe. It is only through His bounties that we have our existence and sustenance.

3- Fasting is an act of atonement for our errors and mistakes, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

"Whoever fasts (the month of) Ramadan on the basis of faith and seeking (the pleasure of Allah), his past errors are forgiven." (Ahmad)

4- Fasting trains the believer in taqwa (piety and fear of Allah). If one volunteers to refrain from lawful food and sex, he or she will be in a better position to avoid unlawful things and acts.

5- Fasting trains the believer in sincerity. Unlike other acts of worship, it is entirely based on self-restraint. Others can never know for sure if the person is fasting or if he broke the fast in secret. Self-restraint requires a high degree of sincerity and faithfulness.

6- Fasting teaches other virtues. Fasting does not exclusively mean refraining from food and drink. Essentially it means refraining from all vice and evils. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "If one does not abandon falsehood in words and deeds, Allah has no need for his abandoning his food and drink." (Al-Bukhari)

7- The spirit of Ramadan with its nightly voluntary prayer (called Salat Al-Qiyam or Tarawih Prayer) and frequent recitations and study of the Glorious Qur'an provides a chance for spiritual revival (a kind of annual spiritual overhaul).

8- Fasting is a form of jihad (striving for Allah). It teaches self-discipline and enhances one's ability to master his needs and desires rather than be enslaved by them.

Psychological Elements:

1- It enhances the feelings of inner peace, contentment and optimism. These feelings result from the realization of Allah's pleasure.

2- It teaches patience and perseverance and enhances the feeling of moral accomplishment.

3- Voluntary abstinence of lawful appetites leads one to appreciate the bounties of Almighty Allah which are usually taken for granted.

4- For a whole month every year, Muslims go through a different and exciting experience that breaks the normal routine of life. Not only can this be refreshing, it also teaches the person to adapt to varying conditions and circumstances in his life.

Social Elements:

1- Fasting promotes the spirit of unity and belonging within the Muslim Ummah. Millions of Muslims all over the world fast during the same month; following the same rules and observances.

2- Fasting promotes the spirit of human equality before Allah the Almighty. Muslims, males and females, rich and poor from all ethnic backgrounds go through the same experience of deprivation with no special privileges for any group or class.

3- Fasting promotes the spirit of charity and sympathy toward the poor and needy. A rich person may be able to "imagine" the suffering of the poor or "think" about hunger. Yet, one can not fully appreciate suffering or hunger until he actually "experiences" or "feels" them. This may explain, in part, why Ramadan is also known as the month of charity and generosity.

4- Fasting promotes Islamic sociability. Muslims are urged to invite others to break the fast with them at sunset and to gather for Qur'anic study, prayer and visits. This provides a better chance for socialization in a brotherly and spiritual atmosphere. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) indicated on more than one occasion that inviting a fasting person to break his fast (after sunset) is an act which is highly rewarded by Allah the Almighty.

Physical and Medical Elements:

A great deal has been written about the medical and health benefits of fasting; both by Muslim and non-Muslim scientists. These benefits include the elimination of harmful fatty substances from the blood stream, helping the cure of certain types of intestinal and stomach ailments and the renewal of body tissues. Needless to say that some ailments may be aggravated by fasting in which case the person is exempted from fasting. For those who may be engaged in Islamically (and medically) undesirable habits such as over-eating or smoking, the self-control and discipline exercised in Ramadan provide an excellent way to "kick" these bad habits. In a sense, fasting is an annual physical overhaul of the body.

The Fasting of Ramadan: A Time for Thought, Action, and Change!

"Fasting in Ramadan develops in a person the real spirit of social belonging, of unity and brotherhood, and of equality before God. This spirit is the natural product of the fact that when people fast they feel that they are joining the whole Muslim society (which makes up more than one fifth of world's population) in observing the same duty, in the same manner, at the same time, for the same motives, and for the same end. No sociologist or historian can say that there has been at any period of history anything comparable to this powerful institution of Islam: Fasting in the month of Ramadan. People have been crying throughout the ages for acceptable 'belonging', for unity, for brotherhood, for equality, but how echoless their voices have been, and how very little success they have met, " says Hammudah Abdalati, in Islam in Focus.

"What is fasting?" "How does the fasting of Muslims in Ramadan differ from the fasting of other faiths?" "Why should one 'torture' one's body in the first place?" "What do you really gain from fasting in the end?", These are a few questions that a number of non-Muslim friends and colleagues often ask us, usually out of fascination with this spiritually-uplifting practice of Islamic faith, and at times out of pity and sympathy for us, thinking, why should anyone suffer from hunger and thirst like Muslims? I wouldn't be surprised if many of us shared the same negative perception of Fasting.

It is important to note that Fasting in Arabic is called, "Sawm", which literally means 'to be at rest'. Fasting in the month of Ramadan (the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar) is one of the Five Pillars upon which the "house" of Islam is built. During this month, every able-bodied Muslim, is required to fast, everyday from dawn until dusk

12 Reasons to Fast!

1 Fasting is an institution for the improvement of moral and spiritual character of human being. The purpose of the fast is to help develop self-restraint, self-purification, God-consciousness, compassion, the spirit of caring and sharing, the love of humanity and the love of God. Fasting is a universal custom and is advocated by all the religions of the world, with more restrictions in some than in others. The Islamic Fast, as opposed to mere starvation or self-denial, is an act of worship and obedience to God, thanksgiving, forgiveness, spiritual training, and self-examination.

2.Ramadan gives us a break and provides us with a rare opportunity to think about our own selves, our future, and our families. It is a time to give our selves a mental break and to temporarily forget about the hundreds of worries and stresses we are constantly bombarded with. In hectic times, such as ours, and in places like the West, this valuable time to think about our lives, on individual basis, is a luxury and is desperately needed! It is a unique month of self-analysis, and of taking stock of one's moral and spiritual 'assets and liabilities'.

3. Fasting indoctrinates us in patience, unselfishness, and gratitude. When we fast we feel the pains of deprivation and hunger, and learn how to endure it patiently. The meaning of this powerful experience in a social and humanitarian context is that we are much quicker than anybody else in sympathizing with the oppressed and needy around the world, and responding to their needs. "It is the month to visit the poor, the sick, and the needy to share their sorrows. It is the month where the food, sustenance and the earnings of a believing Muslim increases and they are blessed," says the Final Prophet of God, Muhammad (peace be upon him), a man who was known for his noble humanitarian causes, for social justice, and for being the first to respond to other's needs, despite the fact that he himself lived a very simple and humble life. It is only during such a trying time as Ramadan that we can reflect on the condition of those in this world who may not be as fortunate as us.

4.Fasting in Ramadan enables us to master the art of mature adaptability and Time-Management. We can easily understand this point when we realize that fasting makes people change the entire course of their daily life. When they make the change, they naturally adapt themselves to a new system and schedule, and move along to satisfy the rules. This, in the long run, develops in them a wise sense of adaptability and self-created power to overcome the unpredictable hardships of life! A person who values constructive adaptability, time-management, and courage will appreciate the effects of Fasting in this respect as well.

5.It cultivates in us the principle of sincere Love, because when we observe Fasting, we do it out of deep love for God. And a person, who loves God, truly is a person who knows what love is and why everyone on this Earth should be loved and treated justly, for the sake of God.

6.Fasting elevates the human spirit and increases our awareness of God. It strengthens our will-power as we learn to rise above our lower desires. The institution of fasting is both unique and a shared experience in human history. From the very beginning of time, humans have struggled to master their physical and psychological selves: their bodies and their emotions. Hunger is one the most powerful urges that we experience. Many, through over- or under-eating or consumption of unhealthy foods, abuse this urge. Thus, when a person purposefully denies something to their own self that it craves, they are elevating their mind above their body, and their reason and will above their carnal passions. "A fasting person empties his stomach of all the material things: to fill his soul with peace and blessings, to fill his heart with love and sympathy, to fill his spirit with piety and Faith, to fill his mind with wisdom and resolution," says H. Abdalati in Islam in Focus. The person who can rule their desires and make them work, as they like, has attained true moral excellence.

7.With the clarity of mind and absence of distractions, also comes a greater focus. As students, the period of fasting, especially early during the day, serves as a tool to focus our minds on our academics. In the month of Ramadan, many Muslims try to avoid watching TV, listening to music, and some other leisure activities, which spares them more time and energy to be spent on more productive activities such as academics, intense study of Islam, voluntary prayers, social and humanitarian causes, and a quality time with the family, to name a few. It is a reminder of our duty to God, our purpose and higher values in life, as God Himself describes the purpose of fasting as follows, "O you who Believe! Fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may develop consciousness of God" (Quran 2:183).

8. Fasting has numerous, scientifically proven, benefits for our physical health and mental well-being. The time, length and nature of the Islamic Fast all contribute to its overall positive effect. One of the medical benefits is a much-needed rest to the digestive system. The reduced food intake during the day allows the body to concentrate on getting rid of harmful dietary toxins accumulated as natural by-products of food digestion throughout the year. The length of the Islamic Fast itself (around 12-14 hours) is in sync with the 'transit time' of food from the mouth to the colon of the large intestine, ensuring that no stimulus reaches the stomach or digestive system while it remains in homeostasis. Therefore, for the vast majority of healthy individuals fasting poses no medical risks but in fact provides many health benefits, such as: an increase in serum Magnesium, essential for cardio-vascular health and prevention of heart complications; improvement in the quality and depth of sleep; improvement in memory and slower skin aging over time; increased production of growth hormone, etc. Also, as a general note, it has been observed that underfed animals live longer than their heavily fed counterparts and suffer fewer illnesses during their lives.

9.The month of Ramadan provides us with a sort of "Boot camp." It is a month of intense moral training. Since we know that Fasting is a special duty prescribed by God, we learn that any sins may spoil our record of fasting with God, so we go through great lengths making sure we are on our best behavior. Many people who experience fasting in this month, feel the impact that this intense training has on their habits, and realize the power of this transformative tool designed to make us better human beings- the ultimate goal of any spiritual exercise. The entire Ramadan atmosphere provides the driving force for this positive change.

10. It makes us realize the reality of life and death. Fasting makes us realize how dependant our lives are on things that we often take for granted, such as food and water. It makes us think about our dependence on God and God's mercy and justice. Moreover, it reminds us of the life after death, which itself has a great impact on our character and our world-view.

11.Ramadan is a blessed month for a special reason: It is actually the month in which God first revealed His final message and guidance for mankind to our beloved Prophet Muhammad. This message has been perfectly preserved both orally and textually in the form of a Book, called the Qur'an (The Reading/Recital). Therefore, Muslims try to do an intense study of the Quran in this month especially, and evaluate their lives according to the standards and guidance contained in it.

12.After the month of Ramadan is over, Muslims celebrate one of the two most important holidays in the Islamic year: EID-UL-FITR, or the Festival of the Fast Breaking. It is a day to thank God for the blessing and training that He provides us with throughout the month of Ramadan. EID-UL-FITR is marked by praying in a huge congregation at an Islamic center or mosque, and by giving a small donation to the poor in the community. The adults give the donation on behalf of their children as well. Dinner parties, family outings, fairs, carnivals, and great joyous celebrations follow the prayer and charity.

In a nutshell, even though the real purpose of the dynamic institution of Fasting is to discipline our soul and moral behavior, and to develop sympathy for the less fortunate, it is a multi-functional and a comprehensive tool of change in various spheres of our lives, including: social and economic, intellectual and humanitarian, spiritual and physical, private and public, personal and common, inner and outer ---all in one!

@Jarus

Salam

Please I sent a post yesterday but it is not here today. Any reason please?

Marhaban Ya Ramadan!!

Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was revealed, providing guidance for the people, clear teachings, and the statute book. Those of you who witness this month shall fast therein. Those who are ill or traveling may substitute the same number of other days. GOD wishes for you convenience, not hardship, that you may fulfill your obligations, and to glorify GOD for guiding you, and to express your appreciation. [2:185]

The Month of Ramadan that Allah made a month of mercy and forgiveness… The month that Allah wanted the Muslims to practice their Islam and feel it with all their hearts. He wanted them to read the Quran to learn the truth of Islam and to follow it in all their religious duties and social relations especially the notions of piety and love that draws them nearer to Allah.

Muslims are called upon to use this month to re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance. We are to make peace with those who have wronged us, strengthen ties with family and friends, do away with bad habits -- essentially to clean up our lives, our thoughts, and our feelings.

During Ramadan, every part of the body must be restrained. The tongue must be restrained from backbiting and gossip. The eyes must restrain themselves from looking at unlawful things. The hand must not touch or take anything that does not belong to it. The ears must refrain from listening to idle talk or obscene words. The feet must refrain from going to sinful places. In such a way, every part of the body observes the fast.

Therefore, fasting is not merely physical, but is rather the total commitment of the person's body and soul to the spirit of the fast. Ramadan is a time to practice self-restraint; a time to cleanse the body and soul from impurities and re-focus one's self on the worship of God.

Thus, each of us has to examine ourselves at the end of this month… Did we make any moral or spiritual progress? Did we feel more brotherly towards other people? Did we love fellow human beings more and did we feel more responsible in all that relates to public issues? Did we care more about Islam?

We should also cling to the chord of Allah and confront all the challenges the arrogant powers and their infidel allies are posing, including the new equating between Islam and terrorism. We have to strive to make Islam the religion of the whole world but by wisdom and good words.

I wish you a baraka filled Ramadan and pray that Allah (SWT) grant us the strength and iman to observe this Ramadan in total submission to His will (Amin)

May you all have a full blessing of month of Ramadan!

Ramadan Kareem, Ramadan Mubarak

The Valuable Fruit of Fasting

The Islamic fast is unique and different from other types of fasting observed in other religions. It is obligatory, for a specific period of time from dawn to sunset, and in a specific lunar month called Ramadan. It involves a voluntary renunciation of all appetites and desires of the flesh during that month for defined hours, with a cheerful and willing acceptance of this beneficial divine mandate. Sunset signifies the achievement of his victory over one’s self during the day.

This blessed month of Ramadan inculcates a spirit of fortitude and gratitude. The atmosphere of the month is such that positive thoughts are automatically invoked on a 24-hour basis. Such thoughts, which wish the welfare of one and all, Muslims as well as non-Muslims, including those who have wronged us!

A stable monotonous environment of eating three times daily tends to produce stereotyped reaction patterns. Fasting gives a variable environment with rigid strategies and sufficient degrees of freedom to cope with the changing conditions.

Some of us may be habituated to a particular type of vice or wrong-doing e.g. gambling, smoking, drinking, backbiting, fraud, hot temper, domestic violence, etc. Whatever foul we are habituated to, becomes our routine and it becomes difficult to resist. Fasting helps to overcome such habits either gradually for some of us or immediately for those with a stronger will power, especially if supported by constant supplications seeking Allah’s assistance. The usual antidote is to put an entirely opposite thought in the mind to displace the negative trend.

This act of self-taming in Ramadan strengthens the will and hence, the will power. This extra will power helps to overcome obsessions and addictions. In fact, fasting also reduces the committed person’s urge to commit dangerous crimes.

During the Islamic fast, every organ in the body that has been given to us as trust by Allah is put to a critical test. A hunger strike is not an Islamic fast. We must not see evil, hear evil, utter evil nor act evil. This is a training session for us to develop taqwa (God-consciousness) as well as to show gratitude for the great favour of the revelation of the noble Qur’an during the month of Ramadan in Laylat Al-Qadr

Taqwa is the most valuable fruit of fasting. Just as plants have their own season of flowering, so Ramadan is the season of the year, for blossoming of goodness, virtue and piety of the Muslim Ummah (nation). Not one, but millions of people jointly water the garden of virtue in the same lunar month, all over the world.

The purpose of the Islamic fast is to obey Allah’s command. Through this exercise, Muslims can develop a balanced personality and a strong sense of a community of believers. It trains all those who volunteer for service to Allah, before allowing them to take on the job of His vicegerency and establish Allah’s message of mercy on Earth.

The fasting Muslim is continuously tied with rules and regulations for one full month and then released for eleven months to see whether the training has been adequate and effective, and if not, any deficiency found in the personality and will power could be corrected and made up in the following year’s refresher course, in the Ramadan program. This is because Allah wants us to make the choice and behave well, when left alone and unattended. The personality develops when a person is free to do any wrong as he would like, but does not do it under unrestricted conditions; e.g. during the eleven months following the Ramadan fast.

If we have passed this first part of the examination, then as Muslims who adhered to the five pillars of Islam and fasted, we are entitled to celebrate `Eid-al-Fitr (Feast of breaking the fast), also called Al-`Eid Al-Saghir (the Minor Feast). Then Allah gives us 2 months and 10 days to prepare for `Eid Al-Adha (Feast of sacrifice), also called Al-`Eid al-Kabir (the Major Feast).

The Minor Feast will entitle us to climb up the ladder one step towards becoming believers, because we must now learn to sacrifice our time, money, leisure, pleasure, skill, along with other talents, God-given gifts and bounties, then be prepared to share them with our fellow-men. As believers adhering to the branches of belief, we must not only think of, but actually perform good deeds. This in turn, will now prepare us for the second examination of higher spiritual achievement. And, if successful, we will be entitled to celebrate the Major Feast as believing men and believing women, then go up one more rung on the ladder up (the straight correct path).

During Ramadan, we get up for suhur (late night dinner, getting ready for fasting) before dawn, then stop eating and drinking at the break of dawn, abstain from such and such actions… during the day and deliberately take Iftar (break the fast) in the evening, at the exact time of sunset. This is precise timing. The month of fasting teaches us to respect time and be precise in our dealings and timings and to be punctual at all times. The exact timing of initiating the fast at the break of dawn and breaking it at sunset with the right countdown to the last minute, teaches us that demarcation between right and wrong, between halal (permitted) and haram (prohibited), so essential for the elevation of the soul to a higher pedestal on the spiritual scale.

A person who can rule his/her desires and make them function as he likes, has attained true moral excellence! 425 hours of intensive study in any particular subject of one’s choice in any university would qualify one in that particular subject. Similarly, 425 hours of intense devotion in Ramadan should certainly uplift a practicing Muslim to a state of higher spiritual achievement and a reward from Allah.

During Ramadan, we also learn to inculcate in ourselves the act of patience. This, together with lessons and reminders to forgive all those who wronged us, add their own quota of enhancing our personality and outlook on life, with multiple benefits. This is not only in this life but also in the Hereafter.

We invoke Almighty Allah to enable us to reap the fruits of the blessed month, accept our acts of worship, and grant us forgiveness and immunity against the punishment of Hell-fire.

Salam

My first day ok and did not feel anything, it was like an ordinary day. I do not always feel it but do feel it as from when it is 10.

@Azharuddin

Please continue with the thread, dont let anybody interrupt you. These forums are becoming a place for people to mock our religion rather than learn new things about Islam. Its a shame. I was greatly influenced by the thread 'What did you learn in Islam recently' where yourself and others have very good contributions. Please continue the thread regarding the topic brother. May Allah save us all from the fires of hell. Ameen.

Salam brother and thank you for the post. The thread continues and there would be no distraction.

@thehomer

I think Allah should also have made himself so evident that not believing would be absurd. e.g One does not need to be told to believe in the possibility of drowning in an ocean.

Mind you, some may not believe that ocean would drown and that they would always find a way out.

No I mean different people have interpreted the same passages in different ways.

Could you spill that out please?

No it's just a claim. One that is hard to believe making it less plausible.

It is not a claim to the believers but would always be to atheist.

I'm just pointing out similarities in approach

Where is the pointer?

I've responded to the other lines. But it does imply that you are a bad person.

Bravo. A good person judging someone . BWT, what is your own understanding of being bad?

Are you ready to pray for a result that we can both verify?

Let me clarify this in case you do not know.

Allah answers prayer in three ways

1. Allah answers prayer.
2. Allah may not answer you probably it may shorten life span or cause problems for the person.
3. Allah may answer the prayer in another way.

There you go with your usual misconception. I think you should educate yourself on evolution. Do you know what an ape is?

Common dude, you do not need to educate me on that. You may take a leaf form your folks in the like of KAG, manmuswac, Nferyn etc.

A is the alphabet that differentiates Atheism from Theism. You could go to search engine and satisfy Atheism first becoming coming here to argue with a Theist or Creationist.

So the punishment for females is that they will not make it into heaven?

Read my post for understanding.

Of course the punishment for women has to be greater than that for men. This God seems quite biased against women.

Where did you see that?

I'm sorry the quote about the number of virgins is higher up in the article. Here it is.

Does that you did not read very well or understood the post before coming here ?

Quote
Two points need to be noted. First, there is no mention anywhere in the Koran of the actual number of virgins available in paradise, and second, the dark-eyed damsels are available for all Muslims, not just martyrs. It is in the Islamic Traditions that we find the 72 virgins in heaven specified: in a Hadith (Islamic Tradition) collected by Al-Tirmidhi (died 892 CE [common era*]) in the Book of Sunan (volume IV, chapters on The Features of Paradise as described by the Messenger of Allah [Prophet Muhammad], chapter 21, About the Smallest Reward for the People of Paradise, (Hadith 2687). The same hadith is also quoted by Ibn Kathir (died 1373 CE ) in his Koranic commentary (Tafsir) of Surah Al-Rahman (55), verse 72: "The Prophet Muhammad was heard saying: 'The smallest reward for the people of paradise is an abode where there are 80,000 servants and 72 wives, over which stands a dome decorated with pearls, aquamarine, and ruby, as wide as the distance from Al-Jabiyyah [a Damascus suburb] to Sana'a [Yemen]'."

I would have loved you giving me the hadith the way it is written, the book number.

@thehomer

I won't just believe it. I'll still wonder how that source got the information. And try to compare this information to what is currently known.

You are not compel to believe it. Allah gave man and Jinn freedom to choose and you would be rewarded for whatever path you choose

Well I don't think the Hadith and Quran are good enough sources due to the multiple interpretations possible.

Multiple interpreatations? I am not aware of that or you are tryiing to say different Engligh Language usage but the same meaning.

Also, how did we get these books? By a person claiming to have received a revelation. I tend to distrust such sources.

Like I said, it is not compulsory that you must accept but you would know when the time comes but I pray that it would not be too late then.

He did not claim but received that. Some of the message came to pass, some still happening and some still to come.

It's no better than one claiming that you'll go to hell since the Bible says so and the person goes ahead to quote bible verses.

Leave bible out of this as I do not want to go into that.

Worshiping out of fear of punishment implies that you are a bad person.

Quite funny that it only that quote you are able to hide under. I explained based on your questions:

I worship God for fear that He created me for a purpose, laid down how to live a non-regrettable life, provided me a guide and told me what my fate would be if I did not follow His wish.

I worship God for love because I love and He loves me in return. When you are doing His will, He would tell His angels that He loves such a person and the angels would lvoe the person in return. I also love him because he provides my need and answers my prayers when I make supplication.

I also respect Him because He is the omnipotent, the Creator that created all things even you and none is comparable to Him. He begets nor is He begotten, Has no son and only Him is the Savior.

Re read again please.

This we can test. Are you ready?

Go on please.

I was not created. I was born. His omnipotence seems lacking.

It is from your quote above I realised that I have been having discussion with an evolutionist and I do not think that having a further discussion would have any impact. Besides, the thread is for those that believe that they were created, not evolved from ape and would give account one day to the Creator.

Since we are all about gender stereotyping here, men are no better. Some beat their wives, abandon them when they feel they're no longer pretty enough and go for younger women etc.

Sir, there are different punishment for different sins. Try to get that

Men do the same and worse.

Try to go to any of the Nigerian markets for a start.

Most killers are men. I think this is worse than verbal abuse.

No, different punishment for different sins

Quote
What of the rewards in paradise? The Islamic paradise is described in great sensual detail in the Koran and the Traditions; for instance, Koran sura 56 verses 12 -40 ; sura 55 verses 54-56 ; sura 76 verses 12-22. I shall quote the celebrated Penguin translation by NJ Dawood of sura 56 verses 12- 39: "They shall recline on jewelled couches face to face, and there shall wait on them immortal youths with bowls and ewers and a cup of purest wine (that will neither pain their heads nor take away their reason); with fruits of their own choice and flesh of fowls that they relish. And theirs shall be the dark-eyed houris, chaste as hidden pearls: a guerdon for their deeds, We created the houris and made them virgins, loving companions for those on the right hand, "

There is nothing like 72 virgins there sir. Re-read again.

Narrated by Abu Hurairar Allahs Messenger said By Him (Allah) in whose Hand Muhammed (PBUH) soul is, there is none from amongst the (Jews and Christians) of these present nations who hears about me and then dies without believing in the Message with which I have been sent (Islamc Monotheism), but he will be from the dwellers of the Hell Fire Sahih Mislim the Book of Faith Vol 1 Hadith 153

Allah said who ever seeks a religion other than Islam it will never be accepted of him and in the Haereafter he will be on the losers Q3 V 85

Surely, those who reject Faith disbelieve in (Allah and in Muhammed) (PBUH) as being Allahs Mesenger and all that which he has broought from Allah, neither their prosperities, nor their offspring will avail them aught against Allah. They are the dwellers of the Fire therein they will abide V 11

@thehomer

Your narrative is quite long but several questions come to mind.

ok

What is the source of your information on these mythical beings?

Would you believe if I give you Islamic source?

Do you realize that you'll also be going to some other hell if you're wrong?

Wrong as? If you are referring to the post, then I am not making any mistake because there is hadith and Quranic verse to back it up.

Why do you worship such a God? Is it fear or love or respect?

I worship God for fear that He created me for a purpose, laid down how to live a non-regrettable life, provided me a guide and told me what my fate would be if I did not follow His wish.

I worship God for love because I love and He loves me in return. When you are doing His will, He would tell His angels that He loves such a person and the angels would lvoe the person in return. I also love him because he provides my need and answers my prayers when I make supplication.

I also respect Him because He is the omnipotent, the Creator that created all things even you and none is comparable to Him. He begets nor is He begotten, Has no son and only Him is the Savior.

Quote from: babs787 on June 24, 2010, 06:17 PM
. . . . The majority of the inhabitants in hell will be women. . . .


Wow how do you know?

Some of the reasons are, Some are never satisifed nor grateful with whatever you might have provided. When there is a small misunderstanding, they would go far as telling you that 'you called yourself a man when you bought a motorcycle for me when husband like you are buying Jeep for their wives (just an illustration) or is this the kind of dress your fellow husbands buy for their wives.

Another reason is that they abuse a lot and so many more?

Also, I'm not sure but how about the 70 virgins concept? Is that also supposed to be true?

Can I have where you cull it from?

Conscience: God's Inspiration to Every Man

Conscience is a spiritual quality that encourages good attitude and thought, and helps us think straight and tell right from wrong.

One of the important aspects of conscience is that it is common to all people. In other words, what feels right to the conscience of a man or a woman also feels right to the conscience of all others provided that the same conditions prevail.

The conscience of one person never falls out with that of another. The reason lies in the source of conscience: It is the inspiration of God. Through the conscience, God lets us know the best and the most beautiful behavior and manners which it will please Him for us to adopt.

Conscience is an inspiration from God as mentioned in the Qur'an:

[And a soul and Him Who perfected it and inspired it with (with conscience of) depravity or (what is) taqwa, he who purifies it has succeeded; he who covers it up has failed.] (Ash-Shams 91:7-10)

In the above verses, God declares that He has inspired the self with knowledge of what is depravity (to act in a sinful manner, to disobey, to deviate, to lie, to turn away from righteousness, to stir up trouble, to decline in good manners). The opposite is the self's conscience of taqwa (awe or fear of God which inspires a person to be on guard against wrong action and eager for actions which please Him). It is this very conscience that guides mankind to the right way.

One of the most important aspects of conscience is that it helps people to find what is right of their own accord. Conscience will surely show people what is right, even if nobody else will. So what matters for someone is to take recourse to their own conscience, listen to what it says, and act upon it. For this reason, we can say that conscience is the main component of religion.

Above all, there is one point that must be borne in mind: Every person, from the moment of gaining consciousness, is responsible for what their conscience tells them.

From the moment people start to conceive the events around them and become able to judge for themselves, they are expected to possess and be able to exercise the ability to hear and distinguish the voice of their conscience, and to have the will to follow it.

From this point forward, they will be questioned about the actions they take in the course of their life. If they follow their conscience, they will be rewarded with an eternal life in God's Heaven, but if they follow their self, they will meet an eternal sealed vault of fire.

Death is not distant from any one of us. It is perhaps even closer than we think. God did not create the life of this world for a vain purpose; it is an undeniable fact that death is not an end.

We all have to organize our life according to this great truth because, after death, we will be judged according to the life we lived, and we will either be welcomed in Paradise or thrown into Hell. Even if someone is not convinced by the truth of this, can they really afford to risk so much and not work for their life in the hereafter? The only solution is to obey the commands of God by listening to the conscience.

If someone does not follow their conscience or use it fully, when they meet the angels of death, they will be plunged into an agony of remorse and hopelessness, which they will suffer for eternity.

Whatever we do, our conscience will not leave us until we die. Conscience is a power that works totally out of our will. It can be seen in a way as God's voice. We will all continue to hear this voice until we die, but those who do not follow this voice will taste the intense regret of it after they die.

Accordingly, in the Qur'an, many examples are given from the conversations in the hereafter in which those in Hell confess what they failed to do in life. Therefore, in truth, everyone knows what they must and must not do, and evading the conscience does no good.

People must never turn their back on the truth once it has been shown to them and try to turn off the voice of righteousness within them.

Contemplation 5

Some scholars said a thousand years ago: “One of the signs of the greatness of Allaah is His creation of man from a single drop of spermatozoa.” There are wonders in the way man was created, yet he is heedless, whilst Allaah Says what means: “And in yourselves [there are signs]. Then will you not see?” [Quran 51: 21] Allaah mentions in many places of the Quran the creation of man from a drop of spermatozoa, and this repetition is for reminding us to contemplate over our creation.

Just contemplate! If this drop of spermatozoa were to be left in the air, it would smell horribly after a short time. Allaah caused it be ejaculated from the male and created man from it. Note how Allaah joins the husband and wife and establishes love between them, due to which they have sexual intercourse, from which this filthy drop emerges from the man and settles in the woman’s womb.

Note how He creates from this white drop a red blood clot, then forms it into an embryo and after this He divides the embryo into bones, nerves, veins and flesh; then He forms from these the head, hands, legs, fingers, toes and inner body parts, each having a distinct shape, a special location, a particular task and operation, and so on.

Also, note how the bones, which are the strong and solid part of the body, are also created from a drop of spermatozoa, which yield these bones that form the structure over which man is built; note how each bone has a special form, some small and others large, some hollow and others solid; and since man needs to be mobile, Allaah did not make these bones as one piece, rather, He created many bones with joints and ligaments connecting them in order to facilitate man’s movement. The bones in man's head number more than fifty and all have different shapes, yet Allaah put them together in such a way as to make the shape of the head circular.

The mention of numbers and details is not meant simply for information, but rather, so that we can think of the greatness of the Creator. If any bone were missing, or there were more than the number required, then this would be considered as a defect, and this is what concerns doctors, while the people of vision contemplate over the greatness of Allaah who created man in the best form and shape.

If all of this was created from a single drop of spermatozoa, then what about the creation of the earth, the heavens, and the galaxies? Allaah Says what means: “The creation of the heavens and earth is greater than the creation of mankind, but most of the people do not know." [Quran 40 :57]

After knowing these facts, go back to thinking about the drop of spermatozoa; consider, if all of mankind and Jinn were to collectively endeavour to create anything from this drop, would they be able to? The fact is that they cannot even create a fly, let alone a human being.

Their foods are:

a. Zaquum: It is an extremely bitter tree which grows from the bottom of Hell. Its fruit are like the head of devils. If a piece of it were to fall on earth in this world,it will spoil all the privisions of the people.

b. Ghisleen: liquid waste product coming out of the private parts of the fornicators and the stinking slippery saliva from the mouth of the drunkards.

c. Dorii: A bitter thorny plant which chokes in the throat and would have to be swallowed with hot water.

d. Ghassaq: A filthy fluid of puss and blood.

e.Naar: Fire food.

Their drinks include:

A.Hameem: A boiling hot fetish flowing water, cutting into pieces everything in the stomach, melting and breaking everything therein; and it shall be poured to them over their heads.

B: Maa'u Sodeed: Mingled liquid pus, chokes the drinker in the throat that he would not be able to swallow it, death will come to him from all direction, yet he would not die.

C. Maa'u-l-Muhl: Thick hot water, that if any of them tries to drink it, it will tear the skin off his face.

D. Mau Nahru Ghautoh: The filthy odour from the private parts of the fornicatresses, it wil form a river which will flow and cause a terrible harm to those in hell.

Their garments shall be of fire. They will eat food of fire. They will drink water of fire. They will sit on fire and be caulted therein. They would be bound in seventy cubit chains. Fire will cover their faces. They shall have beds and bedcover from Hell fire.

The third duty concerns the tongue, which should sometimes be silent and at other times speak out.

As for silence, the tongue should not mention a brother's faults in his absence or his presence. Rather should you feign ignorance. You should not contradict him when he talks nor dispute nor argue with him. You should not pry anmd quiz him about his affairs. On seeing him in the street or about some business, you should not start a conversation about the object of your coming and going, nor ask him about his, for perhaps it will be troublesome to him to discuss it or he may have to lie about it.

Keep silent also about the secrets he confides in you, and on no account divulge them to a third party, not even to his closest friends. DO not reveal anything about them, not even after separation and estrangement, for to do so would be meanness of character and impurity of the Inner.

Keep silent from criticism of his dear ones, his family, his children, also from relating other people's criticism of him, for it is your informant who directly abuses you.

Anas said that God's Messegner (saw) never faced anyone with something displeasing to him, for the hurt comes immediately from the informant and only indirectly from the original speaker.

The fact that you never became a Christian doesnt mean Islam is the true religion. Dont you see that occults do have a massive following? The way to life is narrow, but broad is the way to hell!

Jesus said it in the bible.

The Jahannam is an enormous creature. As many as seventy thousand angels will draw each of its seventy thousand reins. Its pit is so deep that when a stone is thrown inside it, it will take seventy years before it gets to its bottom. Think about this, if you throw a human being from wherever you are to the farthest part of the world, how many days or months will it take him to get there? Then, if somebody will continue to fall and roll down a pit of fire for a span odf seventy years, it is indeed terrible! Yet, the hypocrites will be at the bottom of the Hell.

This Jahannam was kindled for one thousand years until it became red, it was kindled for another one thousand years and it became white; it was kindled again for another one thousand years until it became intensely dark. Therein are snakes as huge as the necks of the Backtarian camel,each of them will birw, and the inflicted pain will be to the depthj of seventy years. There are also scorpions that wil sting the denizens, each of their sting will last for forty years non-stopping. They shall have shades but not that of coolness. It is a shade of thick black smoke. When the denizens would have suffered heat and torture, they will desire a col shade. Alas! They will only see shadows of smoke rising in three columns and enveloping them.

The sparks of the hell is as huge as a palace as if they are yellow camels. Allah in the Quran as unveiled that Jahannam is lyingin wait.That a hell called Laza will burn to the skull while hutamah will mountr right to the hearts.

The Hell will be filled to the brim. All its parts will integrate. Its denizens shall have their bodies deformed, their beauties uglified and their looks will becom,e like that of a mad man. The distance between the shoulders of a person in hell will be three days of a fast rider. Each of his molars (teeth) will be like the mountain of Uhud. The thickness of his skin will be the distance of a three-day journey. His buttocks will occupy a space of two hundred and fifty miles. Since they are to live for ever (without dying again), hunger would be inflicted on them to the extent of their punishments. They will demand for foods and drinks. They will only be offered what can neither lessen their unbearable pang of hunger and thirst nor nourish their body in any way. Their eating and drinking are additional punishments to exarcebate the degreee of their torments.

Conscience: God's Inspiration to Every Man

Conscience is a spiritual quality that encourages good attitude and thought, and helps us think straight and tell right from wrong.

One of the important aspects of conscience is that it is common to all people. In other words, what feels right to the conscience of a man or a woman also feels right to the conscience of all others provided that the same conditions prevail.

The conscience of one person never falls out with that of another. The reason lies in the source of conscience: It is the inspiration of God. Through the conscience, God lets us know the best and the most beautiful behavior and manners which it will please Him for us to adopt.

Conscience is an inspiration from God as mentioned in the Qur'an:

[And a soul and Him Who perfected it and inspired it with (with conscience of) depravity or (what is) taqwa, he who purifies it has succeeded; he who covers it up has failed.] (Ash-Shams 91:7-10)

In the above verses, God declares that He has inspired the self with knowledge of what is depravity (to act in a sinful manner, to disobey, to deviate, to lie, to turn away from righteousness, to stir up trouble, to decline in good manners). The opposite is the self's conscience of taqwa (awe or fear of God which inspires a person to be on guard against wrong action and eager for actions which please Him). It is this very conscience that guides mankind to the right way.

One of the most important aspects of conscience is that it helps people to find what is right of their own accord. Conscience will surely show people what is right, even if nobody else will. So what matters for someone is to take recourse to their own conscience, listen to what it says, and act upon it. For this reason, we can say that conscience is the main component of religion.

Above all, there is one point that must be borne in mind: Every person, from the moment of gaining consciousness, is responsible for what their conscience tells them.

From the moment people start to conceive the events around them and become able to judge for themselves, they are expected to possess and be able to exercise the ability to hear and distinguish the voice of their conscience, and to have the will to follow it.

From this point forward, they will be questioned about the actions they take in the course of their life. If they follow their conscience, they will be rewarded with an eternal life in God's Heaven, but if they follow their self, they will meet an eternal sealed vault of fire.

Death is not distant from any one of us. It is perhaps even closer than we think. God did not create the life of this world for a vain purpose; it is an undeniable fact that death is not an end.

We all have to organize our life according to this great truth because, after death, we will be judged according to the life we lived, and we will either be welcomed in Paradise or thrown into Hell. Even if someone is not convinced by the truth of this, can they really afford to risk so much and not work for their life in the hereafter? The only solution is to obey the commands of God by listening to the conscience.

If someone does not follow their conscience or use it fully, when they meet the angels of death, they will be plunged into an agony of remorse and hopelessness, which they will suffer for eternity.

Whatever we do, our conscience will not leave us until we die. Conscience is a power that works totally out of our will. It can be seen in a way as God's voice. We will all continue to hear this voice until we die, but those who do not follow this voice will taste the intense regret of it after they die.

Accordingly, in the Qur'an, many examples are given from the conversations in the hereafter in which those in Hell confess what they failed to do in life. Therefore, in truth, everyone knows what they must and must not do, and evading the conscience does no good.

People must never turn their back on the truth once it has been shown to them and try to turn off the voice of righteousness within them.