₦airaland Forum

One of the mistakes many of us make during Jumu‘ah often without realizing it is talking while the Imam is delivering the Khutbah on Jumuah.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“If you say to your companion, ‘Be quiet,’ while the Imam is delivering the sermon, you have engaged in idle talk.”

[Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim]

SubḥānAllāh! If merely telling someone to “keep quiet” invalidates your reward, what then is the fate of the one who actually talks, chats, or even answers phone calls during the Khutbah?

The Jumu‘ah Khutbah is part of the act of worship itself which is a moment when we are commanded to listen silently and reflect. Yet, some of us treat it like ordinary talk time.

Please, my brothers and sisters, let’s fear Allah and be attentive during Jumu‘ah. Turn off your phones, avoid distractions, and lend your full attention to the Imam.

May Allah accept our Jumu‘ah, forgive our shortcomings, and make us among those who listen to His words and follow them with sincerity.

Āmīn.

PS: Don't forget to recite Suratul Khaf today

When Will We Truly Learn Tolerance?

Yesterday, a disturbing video went viral showing a female student in Ilorin (a Federal Government school, for that matter) being barred from entering her school simply because she wore a hijab.

Honestly, one cannot help but ask: When will we learn to tolerate one another in this country?

Has the Nigerian Constitution suddenly changed to deny people the freedom to profess and practice their faith openly? What happened to the Supreme Court judgment that explicitly affirmed the right of Muslim girls to wear hijab in schools if they so wish?

Even more ironic this happened in Ilorin, a city with a rich Islamic heritage and majority Muslim population. If such acts of intolerance can happen there, what should we expect elsewhere?

But then again, what exactly is the problem?
If my daughter wears a hijab, or my wife chooses to wear a niqab, have I forced it upon anyone’s daughter? Why then should it become a national issue?

The truth is, until we begin to genuinely respect each other’s faith and freedom, peace and unity will remain elusive in this country. Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and that freedom must mean the right to live our beliefs, not just declare them.

Even in some Western countries, with a much smaller Muslim population, women are allowed to wear hijab or niqab freely in schools and public spaces. So, what exactly is our excuse here in Nigeria, a country that proudly claims to uphold religious liberty?

Let’s be honest, this isn’t about dress code. It’s about tolerance, respect, and justice.
And until we uphold these, we’ll keep failing as a truly united people.

PS: Don't forget to recite Suratul Khaf

From the onset, the Yoruba people, before the advent of Islam and Christianity, practiced traditional religion centered around various deities such as Sango, Ogun, Yemoja, and others. These practices are generally referred to as “Ìṣẹ̀ṣe.”

However, it is important to distinguish between Yoruba culture and Ìṣẹ̀ṣe worship. Yoruba culture is rich in values that all of us regardless of faith can and should uphold: good manners, elegant dress (like agbada), respect for elders, hospitality, and love for knowledge. These are cultural virtues, not acts of worship.

The challenge arises when the Ìṣẹ̀ṣe (traditional religious) elements are made compulsory for anyone aspiring to Yoruba kingship. Traditionally, those who want to become kings are expected to undergo certain rites that include worshiping or pledging allegiance to these deities. This practice effectively excludes Muslims and Christians, even if they are rightful heirs to the throne because it compels them to act against their faith.

This is an injustice and a clear contradiction of fairness and religious freedom. No Yoruba person is “more Yoruba” than another because of their religion. Being Yoruba is a matter of heritage, not worship.

The recent controversy following the passing of the Awujale of Ijebu, a devoted Muslim until his death shows how deep this misunderstanding runs. His burial according to Islamic rites sparked criticism from those who believe every Yoruba king must adhere to traditional rituals. But this should not be so. A Muslim king should be buried as a Muslim; likewise, a Christian as a Christian.

It is time for the government and traditional councils to revisit these outdated customs. Laws or declarations should ensure that any qualified Yoruba person: Muslim, Christian, or traditionalist can ascend the throne and live and die according to their faith.

Let us continue to celebrate our culture—our dress, food, language, and good morals but not impose Ìṣẹ̀ṣe as a religious condition. Promoting Yoruba culture should never mean forcing one form of worship upon another.

Our diversity is our strength. Let us protect it.

PS: Don't forget to recite Suratul Khaf

Pride and arrogance are among the most destructive diseases of the heart. They erase piety, corrupt faith, and open the door to many other vices. The Qur’an and Sunnah repeatedly warn against it, yet many of us take it lightly. Below are four calamities that arise from pride:

1. Deprived of Truth
Arrogance blinds the heart from guidance. Allah says:

“I shall turn away from My revelations those who show pride in the world wrongfully.” (Qur’an 7:146)

2. Allah’s Wrath and Displeasure
Allah does not love the proud (16:23). The Prophet ﷺ described such a person as abusive, shameless, miserly, and of bad character.

3. Disgrace in This World
The arrogant are often humbled before death—disgraced even among their own people—showing the futility of false pride.

4. Hellfire in the Hereafter
In a Hadith Qudsi, Allah says: “Pride is My cloak and grandeur My garment. Whoever disputes with Me in either of them, I will admit him into the Hellfire.”

In conclusion I, no sin should be taken lightly, especially pride. The Prophet ﷺ warned:
“Whoever has in his heart an atom’s weight of pride will not enter Paradise.” (Muslim)

We must therefore purify our hearts, humble ourselves before Allah, and remember that Islam itself means submission. Any trace of arrogance distances us from Allah’s mercy and from Jannah.

May Allah cleanse our hearts of pride, protect us from arrogance, and admit us into His mercy. Āmīn.

Lessons from the Death of the Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, His Eminence Shaykh Abdul Aziz ibn Abdullah Al Al-Shaykh

The news of the passing of one of the most prominent scholars of our time, the Grand Mufti of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has struck the Muslim world deeply. Until his death, he served as a guiding light of knowledge and a beacon of the Sunnah.

From his death, we can take several lessons, beautifully highlighted in Ashaykh Dr Sharoffuddeen Gbadebo Raji and Ashaykh Professor Abdrasaq Alaro’s tributes to him:


1. Death is inevitable. Just days ago, when we mentioned him, we would say “ḥafiẓahullāh” (may Allah preserve him). Now, we say “raḥimahullāh” (may Allah have mercy on him). Death changes everything in an instant. Indeed, it can strike any of us at any time. The question remains: are we preparing for it?

2. Attachment to the Qur’an. Shaykh Abdul Aziz used to complete the recitation of the entire Qur’an every three days. Subḥānallāh! How many of us have not even completed the Qur’an once in three years? His dedication should remind us of the endless blessings of reciting and reflecting upon Allah’s Book.


3. Accessibility and humility despite authority. Despite being blind, the Shaykh discharged his responsibilities with full dedication. He was humble, approachable, and hospitable. Dr. Sharafudeen Gbadebo Raji narrated how, when he and a friend visited him in his office around 2004, the Shaykh received them warmly, addressed them by their names in friendly manner, gave them several valuable books, and even took down their contact numbers. This is a powerful lesson for all in positions of authority: leadership is about service, humility, and accessibility not arrogance.

4. Respecting other scholars even with differences. For roughly thirty years, Shaykh Abdul Aziz was the one who delivered the khutbah on the Day of ‘Arafah, meaning he performed Hajj every year. On many occasions, he made the intention to perform Hajj or ‘Umrah on behalf of deceased scholars not only those he admired, but even those he differed with in opinion. This is a profound lesson: intellectual disagreement should never erase the bond of brotherhood. We remain one Ummah, tied by faith and mutual respect.


Shaykh Abdul Aziz is no more, and like all of us, he will be judged based on his deeds. What remains are the good works he left behind and the countless lives he touched.

Let us reflect: What will people say about us when our time comes? Will they remember us for goodness, humility, and service or something else?

May Allah forgive Shaykh Abdul Aziz ibn Abdullah Al Al-Shaykh, illuminate his grave, raise his rank among the righteous, and grant him Jannatul-Firdaws. And may Allah forgive all deceased Muslims and grant us the tawfīq to leave behind a legacy of righteousness.

PS: Don't forget to recite Suratul Khaf today. BaarakaLlah feekum!

Allah says:
“…And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.”
(Surah al-Mā’idah 5:2)

Let us take this challenge seriously. Locate the Sajdah verses, perform the Sajdah, and let the Qur’an be our companion, healer, and intercessor.

🤲 May Allah make us among the people of the Qur’an, who are His chosen ones. Āmīn.

PS: Don't forget to recite Suratul Khaf today

Challenge for Us All

Since there are 14 Sajdah verses in the Qur’an, why not take on this noble challenge:

👉 Read the Qur’an from Fātiḥah to Nās (perhaps one Juz’ per day).
👉 Whenever you encounter a Sajdah verse, stop, prostrate, and make this du‘ā.

📌 Note: Reciting one Juz’ takes about 30 minutes or less. Think about it—how many hours do we spend scrolling our phones daily? Can we not give just 30 minutes to Allah?


Rewards of Qur’an Recitation

Allah says:
“O mankind! There has come to you an admonition from your Lord, a healing for the (diseases) in your hearts, and guidance and mercy for the believers.”
(Qur’an 10:57)

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The one who recites the Qur’an beautifully, smoothly, and precisely will be in the company of the noble angels. And the one who stammers or finds difficulty will have double the reward.”
(Bukhari, Muslim)

“Whoever reads one letter from the Book of Allah will have a reward, and the reward will be multiplied by ten. I do not say that ‘Alif Lām Meem’ is a letter, but ‘Alif’ is a letter, ‘Lām’ is a letter, and ‘Meem’ is a letter.”
(Tirmidhi)

“Read the Qur’an, for it will come on the Day of Judgment as an intercessor for its companions.”
(Muslim)

“It will be said to the companion of the Qur’an: Read, ascend, and recite with tartīl as you used to recite in the world. Your rank will be at the last verse you recite.”
(Abu Dawood)

“The best of you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”
(Bukhari)

Did you know? There are approximately 14 places in the Noble Qur’an where it is expected of a person to perform Sajdatut-Tilāwah (a prostration) when the respective verse is heard or recited. These places are usually marked clearly in the Qur’an.

Abu Hurayrah (RA) narrates that the Prophet ﷺ said:
“When the son of Adam recites a verse of Sajdah and then prostrates, Shayṭān withdraws weeping and says: ‘Woe unto me! The son of Adam was commanded to prostrate, and he did so, and Paradise is for him. I was commanded to prostrate, but I disobeyed, and the Fire is for me.’”
(Sahih Muslim)

🕋 When and How to Do Sajdatut-Tilāwah

Sajdah should be performed immediately upon reciting the verse of Sajdah.

If delayed due to necessity, it should not be postponed unnecessarily.


What to say when prostrating:

سَجَدَ وَجْهِيَ لِلَّذِي خَلَقَهُ، وَشَقَّ سَمْعَهُ وَبَصَرَهُ، بِحَوْلِهِ وَقُوَّتِهِ، فَتَبَارَكَ اللَّهُ أَحْسَنُ الْخَالِقِينَ

Sajada wajhiya lillathee khalaqahu, wa shaqqa sam'ahu wa basarahu bihawlihi wa quwwatihi. Fatabaarakallaahu 'ahsanul-khaaliqeen.

Meaning:
“I have prostrated my face to the One Who created it, and gave it hearing and sight by His might and His power. Glory is to Allah, the Best of creators.”

No doubt, modesty (ḥayāʼ) is gradually being lost in our community. Sadly, this is even among Muslims and worse still, among those who claim to follow the culture of the Prophet.

A few weeks ago, I witnessed something disturbing. A sister in niqāb was surrounded by men, debating loudly about issues of marriage. The debate itself was not the problem, but the way she raised her voice among men while wearing the niqāb was deeply embarrassing. One wonders: where is the sincerity? Where is the modesty?

The Prophet ﷺ said:
“If you have no shame (modesty), then do whatever you like.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 3483)

Modesty should reflect in how we dress, how we speak, and how we relate to others.

For women and men, dressing properly is part of īmān.

The way we talk with humility and responsibility shows our faith.

Our actions should never make people point fingers and say mockingly: “And you call yourself an Alfa? Or an Eleha? A Muslim?”


We must reclaim this lost jewel. Let us be modest, let us be sincere, and let us serve as role models for others.

May Allah assist us, purify our hearts, and make us people of true modesty. Āmīn.

The Adhān (call to prayer) is not only an announcement of ṣalāh but also a reminder of our connection with Allah.

The Prophet ﷺ taught us to repeat after the mu’adhdhin, saying the same words he says — except at the two calls:

When the mu’adhdhin says: “Ḥayya ʿalaṣ-ṣalāh” (Come to prayer)

We respond: “Lā ḥawla wa lā quwwata illā billāh” (There is no power and no might except with Allah).

When he says: “Ḥayya ʿala-l-falāḥ” (Come to success)
👉 We also respond: “Lā ḥawla wa lā quwwata illā billāh.”


This reminds us that strength to pray and succeed comes only from Allah.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

When you hear the call of the mu’adhdhin, say what he says.”


And after the Adhān, it’s Sunnah to send salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ and make duʿā:

اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّ هذِهِ الدَّعْوَةِ التَّامَّةِ، وَالصَّلاةِ القَائِمَةِ، آتِ مُحَمَّدًا الوَسِيلَةَ وَالفَضِيلَةَ، وَابْعَثْهُ مَقَامًا مَحْمُودًا الَّذِي وَعَدْتَهُ

Allaahumma Rabba haathihid-da 'watit-taammati wassalaatil-qaa'imati, 'aati Muhammadanil-waseelata walfadheelata, wab 'ath-hu maqaamam-mahmoodanil-lathee wa'adtahu.

"O Allah, Lord of this perfect call and established prayer, grant Muhammad the intercession and favor, and raise him to the honored station You have promised him."

Whoever says this, the Prophet ﷺ said: my intercession will be lawful for him on the Day of Judgment.

PS: Don't forget to recite Suratul Khaf

Dear brothers and sisters,
The Qur’an and Sunnah are clear in their commands to follow the guidance of Allah and His Messenger ﷺ and in their prohibition of introducing new practices into the religion. Yet nowhere in the Qur’an or Sunnah were we commanded to celebrate the birth of the Prophet ﷺ.

Allah says:

“Say (O Muhammad to mankind): ‘If you truly love Allah, then follow me. Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.’”
— [Āl ‘Imrān 3:31]



Reflect deeply: the Prophet ﷺ never celebrated his own birthday. Neither did his noble companions (RA), nor the righteous generations after them. This practice appeared only centuries later, far removed from the time of the Prophet ﷺ. If it was truly part of Islam, then those closest to him, who loved him most, would have been the first to do it.

Unfortunately, today in places like Nigeria and elsewhere, some people use Mawlid as a means to raise money, gain popularity, or show off. But regardless of intentions or the form it takes, there is no doubt that it is an innovation (bid‘ah) and the Prophet ﷺ clearly warned against innovations in religion.

He ﷺ said:

“The most evil of affairs are the newly invented matters, and every innovation is misguidance.”
— (Abū Dāwūd, Tirmidhī)



My dear brothers and sisters, if we truly claim to love the Prophet ﷺ, then our love must be shown through following his Sunnah, adhering to his teachings, reviving his way, and avoiding what he did not do.

Let us prove our love for him by:

- Perfecting our five daily prayers.

- Increasing our salāt upon him ﷺ.

- Living by his character of mercy, honesty, and humility.

- Avoiding all innovations that he himself never practiced.


May Allah guide us to the straight path, increase us in true love for His Messenger ﷺ, and protect us from innovations that corrupt our religion. Āmīn.

PS: Don't forget to recite Suratul Khaf today.

Fear Allah Regarding Debts

My dear brothers and sisters,
In these difficult economic times, it is understandable that many families struggle to sustain themselves. Some resort to borrowing funds from friends, relatives, or colleagues to survive. Islam does not forbid seeking help in times of need but what is dangerous, and sadly becoming common, is when people borrow and then hesitate to repay, or even worse, block their lenders and insult them when reminded. Wallāhi, this is a great sin.

The Prophet ﷺ warned us about the seriousness of debt. He said:

The soul of the believer is held hostage by his debt until it is paid off.
— (Tirmidhī)

This means that even if a person prays, fasts, and does many good deeds, his soul may not find full peace after death until his debt is settled. That is how heavy the matter is before Allah.

Another striking incident: The Prophet ﷺ once refused to lead the funeral prayer of a companion because he had an unpaid debt. Only when another Sahābī (Abū Qatādah, may Allah be pleased with him) promised to settle it did the Prophet agree to pray over him (Bukhārī, Muslim). Imagine the Prophet ﷺ, whose prayer is the most blessed, refused because of debt! Shouldn’t this shake our hearts?

Yes, we are in hardship, but let us fear Allah with debts. If you borrow, make the intention and effort to pay it back, even if little by little. And if you truly cannot, be humble, explain sincerely, and seek the patience of your lender. Do not wrong them, for on the Day of Judgment, repayment will not be with naira or dollars, but with your good deeds and if those finish, their sins will be transferred to you.

Let us remember:
Borrow responsibly.
Repay diligently.
Fear Allah in all transactions.

May Allah ease the affairs of all debtors, provide for us from His endless treasures, and protect us from the humiliation of debt in this world and the punishment of debt in the Hereafter. Āmīn.

A gentle reminder on Jumuah


Every Friday, many of us including myself fall into the habit of delaying until just before the iqāmah before we rush to the mosque. We remain in our offices, shops, or get carried away in non-beneficial talks, forgetting the great virtues that lie in going early.

Allah says:

“O you who believe! When the call is proclaimed for the prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave off trade. That is better for you, if only you knew.”
(Sūrat al-Jumu‘ah 62:9)


The Prophet ﷺ also said:
“Whoever bathes on Friday, then goes early, arriving early, it is as if he had sacrificed a camel. Whoever goes in the second hour, it is as if he had sacrificed a cow. Whoever goes in the third hour, it is as if he had sacrificed a ram. Whoever goes in the fourth hour, it is as if he had sacrificed a chicken. Whoever goes in the fifth hour, it is as if he had offered an egg. Then when the imām comes out, the angels come to listen to the reminder.” (Bukhārī & Muslim)

SubḥānAllāh! Look at the treasures we are missing by delaying.

Let us remind ourselves: leaving our work early for the sake of Allāh does not diminish our wealth. In fact, He alone is the One who places barakah in our businesses, health, and time.

May Allāh grant us the wisdom to value these precious hours, hasten to His houses on Jumu‘ah, and make these admonitions beneficial for us all.

Why Ribā Will Never Be Halāl, Even if Everyone Does It

This week, a screenshot went viral showing an online banking platform that charged over 50% of the principal as interest for just six months of borrowing.

Shocking? Yes.
Unjust? Absolutely.
And sadly, this is one of the exact reasons why Islam strictly forbids interest (ribā) because it consumes wealth, traps people in debt, and feeds greed at the expense of others’ hardship.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

"O you who have believed, fear Allah and give up what remains [due to you] of interest, if you should be believers. And if you do not, then be informed of a war from Allah and His Messenger…"
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:278-279)



The Prophet ﷺ did not only forbid interest, but he cursed everyone involved in it:

"The Messenger of Allah ﷺ cursed the one who consumes interest, the one who gives it, the one who records it, and the two witnesses to it, and said: They are all the same."
(Muslim)

As Muslims, we must shun ribā completely whether we are taking it, giving it, recording it, or facilitating it. This applies to banks, private lending, and even informal “small loans” with interest among friends or family.

If you must lend, lend for the sake of Allah, seeking reward from Him, not profit from someone’s desperation. Remember a dirham of ribā is worse than committing zina multiple times, as stated in the Hadith.


Reflection: If that borrower were your own struggling son or daughter, would you still demand interest on top of their hardship? Then why do it to another Muslim?

May Allah purify our earnings, protect us from ribā, and grant us wealth that is halal, blessed, and free from oppression. Āmīn.

One of the most beautiful gifts of Islam is the legacy left behind by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the noble companions who walked with him — those whose hearts were purified, whose faith was unwavering, and whose sacrifices are the very reason Islam reached us today.

Yet, how many people today have forgotten their status?

The companions of the Prophet ﷺ are not just historical figures. They are the pillars of this Ummah, handpicked by Allah to support His final Messenger. They carried the message of Islam with sincerity, wisdom, and courage.

“And the first forerunners [in the faith] among the Muhājirīn and the Anṣār, and those who followed them with good conduct, Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him…”
(Surah At-Tawbah 9:100)

The Prophet ﷺ himself warned us:

"Do not revile my companions. By the One in whose hand is my soul, if any one of you were to spend the equivalent of Mount Uhud in gold, it would not equal a handful—or even half a handful—of what they gave.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)

Dear brothers and sisters, we must understand:
🛑 It is not befitting of a believer to speak ill of those whom Allah has praised and whom the Prophet ﷺ dearly loved.

To do so is a sign of deviancy and disrespect one that may lead a person far away from the straight path.

Sadly, some today utter painful and baseless claims, such as suggesting that Abu Bakr and Umar (may Allah be pleased with them) were not saddened by the death of the Prophet ﷺ, and that they were focused on leadership before even burying him.

Such statements are not just historically false they dishonor the best generation of this Ummah.

It was Abu Bakr (RA) who comforted the shocked companions with words of unshakable faith, saying:

"Whoever used to worship Muhammad, then Muhammad has died. But whoever used to worship Allah, then Allah is Ever-Living and never dies."
(Narrated in Bukhari)


And it was Umar (RA) who was so overcome by grief, he initially refused to believe the Prophet ﷺ had passed — until Abu Bakr reminded him of the verse:

"Indeed, you (O Muhammad) will die, and indeed they will die."
(Surah Az-Zumar 39:30)

These are not men who lacked emotion or loyalty they were mountains of strength, preserving the unity of the Ummah in the Prophet’s absence, despite their hearts being broken.

Their love for the Prophet ﷺ was unmatched. But they also understood that leadership of the Ummah could not be left in a vacuum. The Prophet ﷺ had just returned to his Lord, and the fate of Islam—his mission—depended on stability. So they immediately moved to secure leadership, not out of selfishness or coldness, but out of a deep sense of responsibility.

Leaving a community without leadership, especially after the passing of a central figure like the Prophet ﷺ, could lead to division, chaos, or even apostasy. Their actions were noble, wise, and deeply rooted in foresight and love for the Deen.

As believers, we must be cautious not to let sectarian ideologies or distorted historical claims turn our hearts against those whom Allah has honored. This can lead to misguidance, and perhaps even destruction — for questioning those who transmitted the deen is a threat to the deen itself.

Instead, we must:

✅ Refrain from speaking ill of any companion
✅ Love and honor the companions and their legacy
✅ Follow their example in faith, character, and leadership
✅ Hold firmly to the authentic Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ

Let us not waste time in division or suspicion. Instead, let us preserve our hearts, strengthen our faith, and walk in the footsteps of those who gave everything for Islam.

May Allah protect our hearts from misguidance, increase us in love for the Prophet ﷺ and his companions, and make us firm upon the Sunnah. Āmīn.

Ikhlas (sincerity) in our actions and statements is of utmost importance for the acceptance of our deeds. Al-Bukhari and Muslim narrated that ‘Umar said, “I heard the Messenger of Allah (s) say:

“Verily, the reward of deeds depends upon the Niyyah (intentions) and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended.”

Therefore, every action that was not performed solely for Allah’s Sake, is annulled and fruitless in this life and the Hereafter.

There are two implications for the word Niyyah according to the scholars. One of them pertains to distinguishing acts of worship from acts of habit. For instance, there is a difference between taking a bath to remove impurity (to be able to pray and engage in other acts of worship), and taking a bath to cool off. Also, there is a different Niyyah for Zhur prayer than Asr prayer and fasting during Ramadan in contrast to fasting in other months.

The second meaning for Niyyah pertains to distinguishing between the intention behind the act – if it is directed to Allah Alone or to Allah and others. This meaning carries with it happiness or misery and reward or punishment. For example, two different persons might perform the same act, paying equal effort to it but one of them earns a reward while the other earns no reward, or even punishment, because the intentions were different in each case.

Some scholars said that this is why people vary in grades (in the sight of Allah); it is in accordance to the intentions behind their actions, not because of merely fasting and praying. Imam Ibn Rajab said:

Know that performing deeds for other than Allah is of different types. Sometimes, this action might be to show off in its entirety, and thus, one seeks to be seen by the creation for a worldly gain. For example, this is the state that the hypocrites pray in. Allah describes them as follows:

“…And when they stand up for As-Salat (the prayer), they stand with laziness and to be seen of men, and they do not remember Allah but little…” (Surah An-Nisa: 142)

Allah also described some as follows:

“…And be not like those who come out of their homes boastfully and to be seen of men…” (Surah Al-Anfal:47)

Thus, let’s remind ourselves that showing off can annul our acts of Ibadah and may even lead us to earn Allah’s anger and torment. Sometimes, the act might be for Allah and is mixed with showing off. In this case, there are authentic texts asserting that if the intention of showing off was present at the time one intended to perform a righteous act, the act itself will be annulled and fruitless. But when the act was started to gain Allah’s reward alone, but changed later on to include an intention to partially show off, then it will not annul the act, provided one strives to repel such thoughts.

As Musilms, therefore, we should worship Allah in sincerity and stay away from Riya’ (showing off) and evil intentions. We know from Quran and hadith that Allah does not look at one’s shapes and wealth, but rather at one’s hearts and actions.

Performing a righteous deed solely for Allah can help us towards achieving states of Ikhlas (sincerity). This way, the act can be easily steered away from Riya’ (showing off). The Prophet (s) said in an authentic Hadith, that among the seven whom Allah shades under His Shade, on a day when there wiII be onIy His shade:

” …A man who gives charitable gifts so secretly that his left hand does not know what his right hand has given (i.e., nobody knows how much he has given in charity).”

In addition, Allah said:

“If you disclose your Sadaqat (almsgiving), it is well: but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, that is better for you. (Allah) will expiate you some of your sins.” (Surah Al-Baqara:271)

Scholars recommend that when a believer gives away charity for a good cause, he should not agree that his name be announced to the public, such as in newspapers, unless the purpose is to encourage others to pay for this and other charitable causes, or if his name is announced without his knowledge. Again, we should be conscious of the fact that Allah always knows the real intentions behind our actions.

To conclude, let’s ensure that we strive to clean our hearts, intentions, and acts from all types of Riya (showing off) and instead should direct our good acts for Allah alone. The real rewards and payback is only with Allah and that’s all that we should strive for.

Allah says:

Say (O Muhammad (S): “I am only a man like you. It has been revealed to me that your Ilah (God) is One Ilah (God – i.e. Allah). So whoever hopes for the Meeting with his Lord, let him work righteousness and associate none as a partner in the worship of his Lord.” (Surah Al-Kahf:110)

https://jamiat.org.za/the-necessity-of-ikhlas-sincerity-in-deeds/

LIVE LIKE A TRAVELLER!

We’ve all had short stays somewhere, maybe visiting loved ones, transiting through a city, or attending a conference. In such cases, do we carry loads of bags? Do we build a house or buy a car? Of course not since it’s just a short stay.

Would you think of marrying, starting a massive business, or fighting for land there? Unlikely. Because deep down, you know: this is not home.

This is exactly how the Prophet ﷺ advised us to live in this world. He said:

"Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveller".

(Sahih al-Bukhari)

But let's be sincere to ourselves, how many of us are truly living like this?

Today, we see people planning their lives for the next 20 years when they don’t even know what the next minute holds. We see people amassing wealth they may not even spend 1% of. Families, friendships, and even faith are destroyed over possessions that will fade away when death strikes.

Wallāhi, death is closer to us than we all imagine. Every day, we hear of friends, relatives, and even young, vibrant people leaving suddenly. People we never expected to die are gone. Who knows, maybe tomorrow, it could be us.

Brethren, let’s live like travellers. Take this world lightly. Don’t chase what isn’t yours. Don’t take what doesn’t belong to you illegally. Do good every hour, abstain from sins, and remember you will leave everything behind except your deeds.

Ask yourself honestly: Would I love death to meet me in my current state? If yes, then continue in that goodness. If no, then repent now, for as long as you are alive, Allah still gives you the chance.

May Allah grant us a good ending, forgive our sins, and have mercy on our departed loved ones. Āmīn.

Very inconsequential set of people.

So what happens to those 10 years old already in basic six?

A very ill-thought policy.

Is It Worth It?

In a world full of temptations and shortcuts, sometimes, as a Muslim, all we need is a moment to pause… and ask ourselves:

“Is it really worth it?”

When the urge to cheat, steal, or cut corners rises—
Is it worth it... knowing that death could come at any moment?

When your heart burns with anger and you're about to lash out with cruel words—
Is it worth it... staining your tongue and heart with regret?

When you're laughing with friends and the discussion begins to slide into backbiting and slander—
Is it worth it... to enjoy a moment of mockery at the expense of your hereafter?

When that opportunity for quick money comes—through Yahoo Yahoo, fraud, bribery, exploitation— Is it worth it... when every kobo earned unjustly will haunt you on the Day of Judgment?

When you feel like skipping prayer, or when modesty feels like a burden,
Is it worth it... when Jannah is at stake?

Everything in this world we chase, money, pleasure, status, we will leave it all behind.

The only thing that follows us to the grave is our deeds.

Allah says:

“Then, on that Day, you will be asked about every pleasure.”
[Surah At-Takāthur, 102:8]


So, the next time temptation knocks, pause and ask yourself sincerely:
Is it worth trading my eternal peace for a fleeting moment?

May Allah guide us, protect our hearts, and help us choose what is truly worth it—obedience, sincerity, and righteousness.
Āmīn.

Inspired from Ustadh Ilir Aliji's post

THE BEAUTIFUL SUNNAH OF SIWAK

Have you ever sat next to someone in the mosque and struggled to focus not because of noise or movement, but because of a strong odour from the mouth?

Now imagine you’re the one others silently struggle with.

Many people today wake up and go straight to the mosque without brushing their teeth, or they eat meals with strong smells like amala and ogufe and head back to the masjid. Islam, however, teaches us something better: the Sunnah of Siwak (miswak).

The Prophet ﷺ said:

"Were it not that I might overburden my ummah (community), I would have ordered them to use the siwak for every prayer."
(Sahih al-Bukhari 887, Sahih Muslim 252)


This shows how much the Prophet ﷺ emphasized oral hygiene not just for cleanliness, but to honor our meeting with Allah.

When we stand in prayer, we should be at our best : clean body, clean clothes, and a clean mouth. Siwak isn’t just an old tradition; it’s a beloved act of worship that reflects the beauty of our religion.

Using siwak before going to the mosque removes bad breath and makes you more confident in prayer. It also earns reward, because it is an act the Prophet ﷺ practiced consistently.

Let’s ask ourselves: Would I like to be near someone with bad breath in worship? If not, why should I put others through that?

Use siwak regularly, especially before salah and after eating.

Keep one in your pocket or bag if possible.

Teach your kids this Sunnah and make it a family habit.

If you don’t have access to siwak, brush your teeth before prayer.


The Prophet ﷺ loved cleanliness. Let’s honor that love and spread it.

Tell others, revive a Sunnah, and earn the reward.

May Allah beautify us inwardly and outwardly.
Ameen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7fCiwtlWbk

Some integrals may look simple enough but cannot be evaluated using any of the standard methods we’ve studied. One way to handle such integrals is to find an approximate solution.

This week, from Page 903, Program 22, Frame 1, I discussed one of these approaches — using series expansion.

The Death Of FPMB: A Lesson For The Living

It is no longer news that the former President Muhammadu Buhari has died. May Allah forgive him, be with his family and grant him ease in the grave and Jannah in the Hereafter. Āmīn.

But beyond condolences, his death is a mirror for all of us, especially Nigerians, to reflect. Not just on him, but on ourselves.

Let’s ask ourselves…

Why are government officials looting public funds? Why are ordinary citizens engaging in money rituals, yahoo yahoo, greedy business practices, and even kidnapping innocent people for ransom? Why do lecturers humiliate students unjustly, or inflate scores for bribery? Why are traders hiking prices deliberately, not out of necessity but out of greed? Why are politicians doing everything possible to hold onto power and influence?

The answer is simple: To amass wealth. To enjoy fame. To chase the world.


But here is a question everyone must answer:

How much did former President Muhammadu Buhari take with him? What influence followed him into the grave? What car, what mansion, what convoy joined him in that final resting place? NONE.

You have built estates and kept vaults of naira and dollars, right? What good will it do when your soul is taken?

Excuse me, you ride the biggest cars and are praised on the Internet? Will any of that delay the Angel of Death?

Oh, so you spill innocent blood, crush others with your decisions, and deceive the masses—will the grave ask for your title?

“Every soul shall taste death, and you will only be given your (full) compensation on the Day of Resurrection.” (Surah Aali ‘Imran 3:185)

And the Prophet ﷺ said:

“When a person dies, all his deeds end except three: Sadaqah Jāriyah (ongoing charity), beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him.” (Sahih Muslim)

Let those who strive, strive for these.

LET ME REMIND YOU, YOU WILL LEAVE ALL BEHIND

Your money: legal or illegal will be left. Your power, your mansion, your secret accounts, will all be left. Your bad deeds, they might be the only thing that accompanies you.

So ask yourself now: Will you be remembered for fairness or for fraud? For kindness or for cruelty? For justice or for oppression?

If we all reflect, truly reflect on death, we will fix our homes, our communities, our politics, our economy, and our nation.

This country can rise again. But it starts with you. It starts with me.

May Allah forgive former President Muhammadu Buhari, have mercy on all deceased Muslims, and make us among those who leave behind goodness, not regrets.

Abu Hafs Lukgaf

Let us reflect, my dear brother and sister—
Do we still show true respect to our parents… even now that we’re the one feeding them, clothing them, or sending them monthly allowance?

Do you still lower your wings in humility?
Or do you now see yourself as being above them just because they’re frail, aged, or financially dependent on you?

We need to reflect deeply.

Abu Hurayrah (RA) once saw two men walking together.
He asked the younger of the two: “What is your relationship with this man?”
The man replied:
“He is my father.”


So Abu Hurayrah said to him:

Do not walk in front of him. Do not sit before he sits. And do not call him by his name.

(Al-Adab al-Mufrad by Imam Bukhari)


SubḥānAllāh… how many of us still uphold this prophetic etiquette?

Let’s Break It Down, One by One

🔹 Don’t call your parents by name – Yes, even jokingly!
It’s not respect to call them “Wale” or worse, modern slangs like “popsi” or “momsi”.

Wallāhi, even if you give them the whole world, what you call them matters.

🔹 Don’t walk ahead of them – walk beside or behind them.
Let them lead the way, even if they move slowly. Their pace is blessed.

🔹 Don’t sit before them – Show them honour, the way you would before a respected elder or scholar. Sit after they’re seated.


Unfortunately, many children now think that sending money to their parents is enough…
Yet they ignore their parents’ calls, don’t visit them for months, and make no time for conversations.

If Allah grants you the blessing of having your parents alive, please cherish it.

Call them. Visit them. Serve them with love.
Even if they’ve aged and say things you don’t like, be patient. Your reward is with Ar-Raḥmān.

"And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, ‘My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.’”
(Surah Al-Isrā’ 17:24)


Don’t wait until they’re gone.
Their du‘ā can open doors your CV or capital cannot.

May Allah bless our parents, forgive those who have passed away, and grant us the honour of serving them with love and humility.
Āmīn.

Hardeybohwarley:
You're welcome sir.
The mod must be insensitive then. How is it a must to attach pictures to a post. Who even know whether he is a Shia. Spits.

He's not sir.
I think it's like going to be a mistake from his side. Thanks again for your understanding

Hardeybohwarley:
You posted a beneficial thread but added a Shia image. Kindly revisit and adjust it.

Thanks for your observation. Kindly note that it was the mod that added the image not me sir.

Alhamdulillāh, today is the 9th of Muharram (Tāsu’ā) – a day the Prophet ﷺ intended to fast, and tomorrow (Saturday, July 5) will be the 10th of Muharram – ‘Āshūrā’, one of the most virtuous days in the Islamic calendar.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Fasting the day of ‘Āshūrā’, I hope that Allah will expiate (forgive) the sins of the previous year.”
[Sahih Muslim, 1162]


Yes, a whole year of minor sins wiped away for fasting just one day. How generous is Allah!



Why Fast Tāsu’ā and ‘Āshura?

When the Prophet ﷺ migrated to Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on the 10th of Muharram (‘Āshūrā) in remembrance of the day Allah saved Prophet Musa (Moses, AS) and his people from Pharaoh.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“We have more right to Musa than they do,”
and he fasted on that day and encouraged the Muslims to do the same.
[Bukhari and Muslim]


Later, the Prophet ﷺ added:

“If I live until next year, I will fast the ninth day too.”
[Muslim, 1134]

So scholars agree: 🔹 Best option: Fast 9th and 10th (Friday & Saturday)
🔹 Next best: Fast 10th and 11th (Saturday & Sunday)
🔹 Last option: Fast only the 10th (Saturday) – but try not to do it alone if avoidable.


Some scholars note that major events occurred on ‘Āshūrā’, such as:

The salvation of Prophet Musa (AS) from Pharaoh

The repentance of the people of Yunus (AS)

The ark of Nūh (AS) settling on Mount Judi

Prophet Ibrāhīm (AS) rescued from fire


While not all reports are authenticated, they show how historically significant this day is in the lives of the Prophets.



Still Time to Catch the Rewards

Didn't fast today (Friday)?
👉 No worries. You can still fast Saturday (10th) and Sunday (11th) in shā’ Allāh!

Also don’t forget:
🌕 Monday (Sunnah)
🌕 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday – are Ayyām al-Bīd (13th–15th)
Fasting these days is also highly rewarding.

We don’t know which good deed Allah will accept and make a cause for our salvation. This could be that one fast that shields us from the fire.

May Allah accept our fasts, forgive our sins, and keep us steadfast.
Āmīn.

Do You Know the Months of the Hijrah Calendar by Heart?

As we begin a new Islamic year, here's a sincere question for reflection:

📌 Can you recite the 12 Islamic (Hijrah) months from start to finish—without a single mistake?

Many Muslims today can list the Gregorian months with ease…
But when it comes to Muharram to Dhul-Hijjah, many of us struggle.

Let’s change that. Let’s reconnect.

🕋 The 12 Islamic Months

1. Muharram


2. Safar


3. Rabi’ al-Awwal


4. Rabi’ al-Thani


5. Jumada al-Ula


6. Jumada al-Thaniyah


7. Rajab


8. Sha’ban


9. Ramadan


10. Shawwal


11. Dhul-Qa’dah


12. Dhul-Hijjah



Each of these months is not just a name—it carries meaning, history, and spiritual opportunities. And note: Each Islamic month has either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.

✨ Why Knowing the Hijrah Calendar Matters

🔹 Ramadan, the month of fasting and Qur’an, doesn’t fall in April or May—it begins with the sighting of the crescent of the 9th Hijrah month.
🔹 Hajj and Eid al-Adha are performed in Dhul-Hijjah, not December.
🔹 The White Days (Ayyamul Beed)—13th, 14th, and 15th—are best observed through the lunar calendar, not by random Gregorian dates.
🔹 Sacred months like Muharram and Rajab hold immense spiritual value, but we miss them when we only follow January to December.

🕯 A Call to Reconnect

Dear brothers and sisters, as we welcome 1447 AH, let us not treat the Hijrah calendar like an afterthought.
It is the calendar Allah and His Messenger ﷺ used, and it remains the guide for our acts of worship.

📆 Let’s begin marking our calendars with Muharram, Safar…,
🕌 Let’s teach our children these months,
💫 Let’s be proud of our heritage and realign ourselves with the Islamic rhythm of time.

May Allah make this new year one of faith, forgiveness, barakah, and nearness to Him.
Ameen.

In recent days, the society has been shaken by heartbreaking news of sudden deaths especially among the youth.

Just two days ago, the Yorùbá Muslim community mourned the passing of our beloved Ustadh Luqman Abu Sufyan Al Almaiy, a vibrant soul dedicated to Islamic knowledge. The very next day, another brother who had posted a reflective note about the scholar, himself did not wake up the following.

Walai, this is not just saddening, it is terrifying!

It is a reminder that death is not just for the old or the sick. It comes unannounced, and sometimes with no warning. Indeed, death is closer to each of us than we often dare to admit.

The Prophet ﷺ mentioned that one of the signs of the Last Hour is the prevalence of sudden death.
This is our reality today.

So we must ask ourselves:

Are we truly prepared to meet our Lord?

What if our own clock clicks tonight, what would we leave behind?

Are we in a state that we would love to meet Allah with?


Let us take this as a sincere reminder.
Let us increase in righteous deeds, mend our relationships, keep our tongues moist with dhikr, hasten to repentance, and refrain from sins—no matter how small they may seem.

We ask Allah to forgive all deceased Muslims, especially those who have recently passed.
And may He grant the rest of us long lives filled with sound faith, peace, wealth, and good health.
Ameen.

MEMORIZATION OF THE BOOK "HISNUL MUSLIM" (THE FORTRESS OF THE BELIEVER) on WhatsApp

🕌 Invocation from the Qur’an and Sunnah.

🎓 6th cohort

BismiLahi ArRahman ArRoheem

Undoubtedly, mankind faces numerous challenges – both spiritual and physical.

These challenges, such as the evil eye, magic, and physical ailments, often have the potential, by the will of Allah, to turn the wealthy into the poor, the healthy into the sick, and, most alarmingly, believers into non-believers (May Allah protect us from such outcomes).

Islam offers perfect solace to believers through the verses of the Holy Qur'an and invocations from the Sunnah, as prescribed by the Messenger of Allah (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), providing remedies for these problems. Regrettably, many Muslims remain unaware of these solutions.

This course aims to teach effective methods of memorizing these beneficial Adhkaar from the book "Hisnul Muslim" by Shaykh Said bin Ali bin Wahaf Al-Qahtani on WhatsApp within a formal and structured setting, all free of charge.

The 5th cohort of students has just completed their memorization of the book.

📖 About the Book:

The book contains daily supplications for everyday use and special occasions.

📅 When Does the Class Begin?

Classes will commence from Monday, June 30th, 2025, In Sha Allah. (4th Muharram1447AH)

⏳ Application Deadline:

⚠️ Friday, June 27th, 2025.

Please share!

Register here

Episode 91 - Reduction formulas (cont'd)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEU3eaMTgvc

Marcgrace:
Hello @Lukgaf

It seems you may have misunderstood my point. I intended for each of them to have their documents considered as separate applications by the Visa Officer. These are applications from friends, not family, to avoid the Visa Officer from granting visas to only a few of them.

I see. Many thanks for your clarification