If you’re living without sunnahs and sunnah prayers

If you’re living without sunnahs and sunnah prayers  Advice:

If you’re living without sunnahs and sunnah prayers, and without praying witr and dhuhā prayer, and without reciting anything from the Qur'ān and without reciting morning and night adhkār, and without seeking knowledge, and without fasting sunnah days, and without sadaqah, and without any work for the akhirah, 

then do not be surprised if you lose happiness and peace of mind in your life, and don’t be surprised of standing in the ākhirah empty handed while those around you get called, 

so one of them can enter from the door of Al-Rayyān (for fasting) or the door of prayer, and the other from the door of Sadaqah, and the other from the door of maintaining the ties of kinship, or the door of Jihad. 

Your salary of years builds you houses in dunyah, and the sunnahs build you a house in Jannah. So take care of your sunnah deeds, for they will be your saviours in ākhirah!

Share:

Read More

The Power of Du'a: Seize the Blessings After Prayer

The Often-Overlooked Moment: The Power of Sitting After Prayer

Shaykh ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz ibn Bāz رحمه الله mentioned: 

The sitting after the taslīm in the prescribed prayers is from the most important times, in which the mercy of Allāh descends (upon his slaves). Do not hastily get up, rather seek forgiveness from Allāh, glorify Him, praise Him, and magnify Him.

Ibn Baṭṭal رحمه الله said:

Whoever has many sins and desires that Allāh remove these sins from him without burdening himself, then let him seize this opportunity and remain seated in his place after the prayer, so that he may take advantage of the supplications from the Angels and their asking forgiveness for him.

[Sharḥ Ibn Baṭṭal, vol. 3, pg. 114]

Translated by: Munīb al-Sumālī

_____________________________

The wisdom behind Islamic practices is profound. Often, seemingly simple actions hold immense spiritual significance. Such is the case with sitting after taslim (greetings) in the prescribed prayers. This short period, as Shaykh Abd al-Aziz ibn Baz (may Allah have mercy on him) reminds us, is a prime time for receiving Allah's (SWT) mercy.

The Often-Overlooked Moment: The Power of Sitting After Prayer

Many rush out of prayer as soon as the final taslim is complete. However, this brief moment of sitting holds immense value. Ibn Battal (may Allah have mercy on him) emphasizes this by urging believers to seize this opportunity.

Mercy Descends: Don't Miss the Opportunity for Forgiveness

This quiet time after prayer is a window for supplication. It's a chance to seek Allah's (SWT) forgiveness, glorify Him, and express our gratitude. As Ibn Battal suggests, this is a time when the  angels may intercede for us, further amplifying the power of our du'a (supplications).

Seize the Whispers of Angels: Supplications After Tashahhud

What supplications can we offer during this precious time?  

There are specific duas found in the Sunnah, but sincere pleas from the heart are also encouraged.  Ask for forgiveness, express gratitude, and supplicate for your needs and the needs of the Ummah (Muslim community).

Making the Most of Your Du'a: Practical Tips for Increased Focus

To maximize the benefit of this time, consider these tips:

• Be Present: Silence your phone and any distractions.
• Focus on Meaning: Contemplate the words you recite, internalize their essence.
• Raise Your Hands: This physical act can enhance your supplication.
• Be Sincere: Let your pleas come from the depths of your heart.
• By incorporating these practices, you can transform the sitting after prayer into a powerful moment of connection with Allah (SWT).

Share:

Read More

The Description of the ‘Eid Prayer and its Takbīrs

A’ishah (radiyallāhu anhā) said: “In both Fitr and Adhā prayers, Allah’s Messenger would make seven takbīrs in the first rak’ah and five in the second ―and these were other than the ones for entering into rukū’.” (Abu Dawūd, no. 1149, authenticated by Al-Albāni) 

Also, Katheer bin Abdillāh narrated from this father, from his grandfather who said: “The Prophet said the Takbir in the first rak’ah seven times before the recitation and in the last rak’ah, five times before the recitation.” (At-Tirmidhi, no. 536, declared sahih by Al-Albāni).

Based on this narration, Imām Al-Baghawi (died 516) concluded: “This is saying of the majority of the scholars among the Sahābah and those who came after them, that he would make seven takbīrs in the first rak’ah after the opening takbir of the prayer. In the second ra’kah, he would make five takbīrs after the takbir for standing, and he would say them before the recitation. 

This has been reported from Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Ali, Ibn ‘Umar, Ibn ‘Abbās, Abu Hurayrah, Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri –and this is the saying of the people of Madinah, and it is the saying of Az-Zuhri, ‘Umar bin ‘Abdul-Azeez, Mālik, Al-Awzā’ee, Ash-Shāfi’ee Ahmad and Ishāq.” (See Sharhus-Sunnah of Al-Baghawi, 2/606)

Some of the scholars have stated (among them, Shaikh Al-Fawzān and Shaikh Ibn ‘Uthaimīn) that six takbīrs are said in the first rak’ah after the opening takbīr ―and after the opening du’ā but before seeking refuge and reciting Al-Fātihah.

The opening takbīr of the prayer is a pillar and cannot be left and the prayer is not valid unless it is said. The rest of the takbīrs (before Al-Fātihah) are Sunnah, not obligatory.

So after the opening takbīr, you recite the opening du’ā of the prayer as normal ―then the additional seven takbīrs are recited. Then straight after the seventh takbīr, you seek refuge with Allah as in the normal prayers because this is seeking of refuge before the recitation of Surah Al-Fātihah ―and Suratul-Fātihah begins with the bismillāh. After Surah Al-Fātihah, recite another Surah.

In the second rak’ah, stand up from the prostration (sajdah) with the utterance of takbīr. 

After that, you recite a further five takbīrs, then the bismillāh, then Surah Al-Fātihah, then another Surah.

Share:

Read More

What is the ruling on Praying Sunnah or Nafal before and after the ‘Eid Prayer

Praying Sunnah or Nafal before and after the ‘Eid Prayer

There is no nafal or Sunnah prayer to be prayed before the ‘Eid prayer or after it until one has left the musallā (the prayer area) due to the saying of Ibn ‘Abbās (radiyallāhu ‘anhumā): “The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) came out on the day of ‘Eid and prayed two rak’ahs (‘Eid prayer) and he did not pray anything before it or after it.” (Bukhāri and Muslim)

Imām Ahmad (rahimhullāh) said: “The people of Madinah would not pray any supererogatory prayer before or after the ‘Eid prayer.” However, once a person returns to his home, the is no harm if he prays due to what has been reported from Ahmad and others: “The Prophet would pray two ra’kahs once he had returned to his home.” (Declared sahīh by Al-Albāni in Al-Irwā, 631)

Share:

Read More

What is the ruling on Women praying behind the rows alone or with their children

Answered by our Shaykh, the 'Allāmah, the Trustworthy Advisor, Abu 'Abdirrahmān Yahya bin 'Ali Al-Hajūri - may Allāh preserve him - on the 4th, Ramadhān, 1442H

Question:

There are some Musallās of the women, some of women have children, so they pray at the back of the Musallā with their children, and between them and the first rows of the women is a big gap, perhaps she is praying by herself with her children at the back of the Musallā and perhaps there are other women with their children. 

So what is the ruling of their prayer in this scenario?

Answer:

What is obligatory is completing the rows one by one, whether it is concerning the men or the women, 

 اتموا الصف الأول فالأول وما كان من نقص فليكون في المؤخر

"Complete the rows one by one, and whatever there is of deficiency then let it be in the latter rows."

And as it is also obligatory upon the men giving importance to the straightening of the rows and completing them one by one and to avoid distancing between them. The Prophet ﷺ said:

النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: تراصوا في الصفوف وقاربوا بينها

"Straighten the rows and draw near between them."

And drawing near: is for there to be between the previous row and the one after the distance of the place of prostrating with ease, so if they for example  made between each row two metres? This is not drawing near between the rows, this is distancing.

There should be levelling between persons. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Draw near to each other", i.e between two men and two women, there is also that the rows are to be drawn near without crowd. Whereby he is close to the feet of his companion who is in front of him and not according to his liking, he does rukū'u and sujūd adjusted with ease, this is the obligatory drawing close.

Distancing is in opposition to that concerning the men and the women, there remains if she is praying with her children or some women with distancing: The prayer is correct except that there occurs sin due to not closing the gap, not completing the first rows with capability to that. You opposed the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.

There is a difference between if she prays by herself behind the rows of the women and between if she prays with other women or with some of her children in a row and the likes of that but far from the women. So in the first scenario:

If she prays by herself behind the women whether the women are praying behind the Imām or praying by themselves, then the ruling of that is that of the ruling of a man praying alone behind the row.

لا صلاة لمنفردٍ خلف الصف

"There is no prayer for the one praying alone behind the row."

It is only legislated for her to pray by herself behind the men, whether it be a Mahram or non Mahram, 

صليت أنا ورسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم والعجوز خلفنا

"The Messenger of Allāh ﷺ and I prayed while an old lady was behind us."

As for women with women then their affair is like the affair of the men with the men, there is a must to row together. In the mentioned scenario the prayer is correct, but what is obligatory is completing the rows one by one.

____

Translated by: 

Abū 'Abdillāh 'Omar bin Yahya Al-'Akawi

Share:

Read More

Does fast count if we don't pray

Does your fast count if you don't pray?

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymin was asked in Fatawa al-Siyam (p. 87) about the ruling on the fasting of one who does not pray.

 

He replied: 

“The fast of one who does not pray is not valid and is not accepted, because the one who does not pray is a disbeliever and an apostate . 

Allah says

But if they repent [by rejecting Shirk (polytheism) and accept Islamic Monotheism], perform As-Salah (Iqamat-as-Salah) and give Zakah, then they are your brethren in religion.” [al-Tawbah 9:11]

And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: 

“Between a man and shirk and disbelief stands his giving up prayer.”

(Narrated by Muslim, 82) And he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “

The covenant that separates us from them is prayer; whoever gives up prayer is a disbeliever.”

(Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2621; classed as sahih by al-Albani in Sahih al-Tirmidhi) 

Share:

Read More

What are the acts and sayings that must be properly done in prayer by the Imam and the worshippers behind him

RUSHING THROUGH TARAWĪH

Your Imām may choose to recite "mud-hāmmatān" (55:64) after Sūrah al-fatiha in tarawīh prayers. In this case, no one will say that his prayer is invalid, we can only offer advice for improvement.

 

However, it is important to note that some actions and sayings must be performed correctly during prayer, including tarawīh, else the prayer may become invalid and may not benefit anyone involved just like the Prophet ﷺ told a companion after he concluded with the prayer, he ﷺ said to him: "Go back and pray for you have not prayed." {al-Bukhaari #757}

He repeated his prayer three times but the Prophet ﷺ kept correcting him until he was finally taught the correct way to perform the prayer, the Prophet ﷺ said to him:

"When you stand to pray, say the Takbir, then recite whatever is easy for you of Qur'an. Then bow until you have tranquillity in your bowing, then stand up until you are standing straight. Then prostrate until you have tranquillity in your prostration, then sit up until you have tranquillity in your sitting. Then do that throughout"

{al-Bukhaari #757}

Abu Abdullah al-Ash’ari (may ALLĀH be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of ALLĀH ﷺ saw a man who did not complete his bowings and rushed through his prostrations while praying. The Prophet ﷺ said, "If he were to die in this state, he will have died upon a religion besides that of Muhammad. The parable of one who does not complete his bowings and rushes through his prostrations is that of a starving person, who eats only a morsel or two that does not suffice him at all."

{Al-Mu’jam al-Kabi‌r #10459}

The following are acts and sayings that must be properly done in prayer by the Imam and the worshippers behind him:

•  Proper recitation of Surah al-Fathia.
• 
  
•  Saying "Subhāna Rabbiyal-Adhim" at least once in Ruku, as long as it can afford those praying behind to do the same.
• 
  
•  Standing straight and calm after Ruku.
• 
  
• Saying "Subhāna Rabbiyyal-Ala" at least once in Sujud, as long as it can afford those praying behind to do the same.
• 
  
• Sitting calmly between two Sujuds.
• 
  
• Saying "Rabbighfir lee, Rabbighfir lee" while sitting between two Sujuds.
• 
  
• Being calm and still in each act.
• 
  
• Saying the prayers for the Prophet ﷺ in tashahud (Salātul Ibrāhimiyyah)

I only mentioned the acts and sayings that are most likely to be omitted by those who rush their prayers.

ALLĀH says:

قُلۡ هَلۡ نُنَبِّئُكُم بِٱلۡأَخۡسَرِینَ أَعۡمَـٰلًا ٱلَّذِینَ ضَلَّ سَعۡیُهُمۡ فِی ٱلۡحَیَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡیَا وَهُمۡ یَحۡسَبُونَ أَنَّهُمۡ یُحۡسِنُونَ صُنۡعًا

Say, ˹O Prophet˺, Shall we inform you of the greatest losers as to their deeds? "˹They are˺ those whose efforts are in vain in this worldly life, while they thought that they were acquiring good by their deeds."

{Al-Kahf: 103-104}

We ask ALLĀH to overlook our shortcomings in acts of worship and aid us in remembering HIM, thanking HIM, and worshipping HIM in the best manner. Aamin

Share:

Read More

The Four Hadeeths regarding Salat al-Haajah

The Four Hadeeths regarding Salat al-Haajah mentioned above:

First hadeeth:

It is narrated from Ibn Mas’ood ( رضي الله عنه) that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Twelve rak’ahs that you pray by night or day and recite the tashahhud between each two rak’ahs. When you recite tashahhud at the end of the prayer, then praise Allaah and send blessings and peace upon the Prophet, and recite the Opening of the Book seven times whilst you are prostrating, and say: Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wahdahu laa shareeka lah, lahu’l-mulk wa lahu’l-hamd was huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadeer, ten times. Then say: “O Allaah, I ask You by the glory of Your Throne and the Mercy of Your Book and Your greatest name and Your highest majesty and Your perfect words,” Then ask for what you need, then raise your head and say salaam right and left. Do not teach it to the foolish for they will pray and will be answered.”

Narrated by Ibn al-Jawzi in al-Mawdoo’aat (2/63) via ‘Aamir ibn Khadaash from ‘Amr ibn Haroon al-Balkhi. 

Second hadeeth:

It was narrated that Ibn ‘Abbaas ( رضي الله عنه) said: The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said: “Jibreel (peace be upon him) came to me with some du’aa’s and said: When some worldly matter befalls you, say these words first, then ask for what you need: O Creator of the heavens and the earth, O possessor of majesty and honour, O helper of those who cry for help, O helper of those who seek help, O reliever of calamity, O most merciful of those who show mercy, O answerer of the call of the one who is in distress, O God of the universe, so You I tell my need, You know best about it so fulfil it.”

Narrated by al-Asbahaani, as stated in al-Targheeb wa’l-Tarheeb (1/275). Shaykh al-Albaani ( رحمه الله) said in Da’eef al-Targheeb (419) and al-Silsilah al-Da’eefah (5298) that it is mawdoo’ (fabricated).

The third hadeeth is as follows: 

It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Abi Awfa said: The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said: Whoever has a need from Allaah or from one of the sons of Adam, let him do wudoo’ and do it well, then let him pray two rak’ahs, then let him praise Allaah and send blessings and peace upon the Prophet (ﷺ). Then let him say: There is no god but Allaah, the Forbearing, the Most Generous. Glory be to Allaah the Lord of the Mighty Throne. Praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the Worlds. O Allaah, I ask You for the means of Your Mercy and forgiveness, the benefit of every good deed and safety from all sins. I ask You not to leave any sin of mine but You forgive it, or any distress but You relieve it, or any need that is pleasing to You but you meet it, O most Merciful of those who show mercy.” 

Narrated by al-Tirmidhi (479) and Ibn Maajah (1384).

Fourth hadeeth:

It was narrated from Anas ( رضي الله عنه) that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “O ‘Ali, shall I not teach you a du’aa’ which, if some worry or distress befalls you, you may call upon your Lord with it and you will be answered by Allaah’s leave and you will be granted relief? Do wudoo’ and pray two rak’ahs, and praise and glorify Allaah, and send blessings upon your Prophet, and ask for forgiveness for yourself and the believing men and women, then say: O Allaah, You judge between Your slaves concerning that in which they differ, there is no god but Allaah, the Most High, the Almighty, there is no god but Allaah, the Forbearing the Most Generous. Glory be to Allaah, the Lord of the seven heavens and the Lord of the Mighty Throne. Praise be to Allaah the Lord of the Worlds. O Allaah, reliever of distress and worry, answerer of the call of the one who is in distress when he calls upon You, Most Compassionate and Most Merciful in this world and in the Hereafter, have mercy on me in my need and meet it, mercy that will leave me with no need of the mercy of anyone other than You.”

Narrated by al-Asbahaani, as stated in al-Targheeb wa’l-Tarheeb (1/275). It was classed as da’eef by al-Albaani ( رحمه الله) in Da’eef al-Targheeb (417). He said: Its isnaad is weak and contains narrators who are not known. See also al-Silsilah al-Da’eefah (5287).

Share:

Read More

Does dua got answered on praying Salat al haajah

Those who claim that their dua got answered on praying Salat al haajah

Al-Shawkaani (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: 

The Sunnah cannot be proven merely from experience, and the acceptance of du’aa’ does not necessarily mean that this was narrated in a sound from the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Allaah may answer a du’aa’ even when one does not seek to draw close to Him by means of the Sunnah, for He is the Most Merciful of those who show mercy, or the answer may be a kind of test that may lead a person further away from Allaah. End quote. 

Tuhfat al-Dhaakireen (p. 140). 

Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan (may Allaah preserve him) said:   

As for what is said about So and so having tried it and found it to be true, all of that does not indicate that the hadeeth is saheeh. The fact that a person tried something and got what he wanted does not prove that which is said about it or narrated concerning it is correct, because it may be decreed that he gets this thing, or it may be a test and trial for the one who does that. Achieving one’s aim does not mean that what is narrated concerning it is correct. End quote. 

Al-Muntaqa min Fataawa al-Shaykh al-Fawzaan (1/46)

Share:

Read More

The opening supplication in prayer (du‘a’ al-istiftah) and the versions narrated in hadiths

EPISODE 4: The opening supplication in prayer (du‘a’ al-istiftah) and the versions narrated in hadiths

﷽

Firstly: the opening supplication (du‘a’ al-istiftah) and the versions of it that have been narrated

Several versions of the opening supplication have been narrated from the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him), including the following versions:

➖➖➖

1️⃣Istiftah (The Opening Duʿa’) - 1

سُبْحَانَكَ اللّٰهُمَّ وَبِحَمْدِكَ ، وَتَبَارَكَ اسْمُكَ ، وَتَعَالَىٰ جَدُّكَ ، وَلَا إِلٰهَ غَيْرُكَ.

Subḥānaka Allāhumma wa bi-ḥamdika wa tabāraka-smuka wa taʿālā jadduka wa lā ilāha ghayruk.

How Perfect are You O Allah, and all praise is Yours. Your Name is most blessed, Your majesty is exalted and there is no god worthy of worship except You.

_Abū Sa’īd al-Khudrī (raḍiy Allāhu ‘anhu) narrated that when the Messenger of Allah ﷺ got up to pray at night (for tahajjud prayer) he uttered the takbīr and then said [the above]. 

He then said: لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ (There is no god but Allah) three times. 

He then said: اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ كَبِيرًا (Allah is altogether great) three times. 

He then said: أَعُوْذُ بِاللّهِ السَّمِيْعِ الْعَلِيْمِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيْمِ، مِنْ هَمْزِهِ وَنَفْخِهِ وَنَفْثِهِ (I seek protection in Allah, the All-Hearing and All-Knowing from the rejected Shaytān; from him inciting madness, pride and reprehensible poetry.) (Abū Dāwūd 776, tirmidhi 234)

2️⃣Istiftah (The Opening Duʿa’) - 2

اَللّٰهُمَّ بَاعِدْ بَيْنِـيْ وَبَيْنَ خَطَايَاىَ كَمَا بَاعَدْتَ بَيْنَ الْمَشْرِقِ وَالْمَغْرِبِ ، اَللّٰهُمَّ نَقِّنِيْ مِنَ الْخَطَايَا كَمَا يُنَقَّى الثَّوْبُ الْأَبْيَضُ مِنَ الدَّنَسِ، اَللّٰهُمَّ اغْسِلْ خَطَايَاىَ بِالْمَاءِ وَالثَّلْجِ وَالْبَرَدِ.

Allāhumma bāʿid baynī wa bayna khaṭāyāya kamā bāʿadta bayna-l-mashriqi wa-l-maghrib, Allāhumma naq-qinī min khaṭāyāya kamā yunaq-qa-th-thawbul-abyaḍu mina-d-danas, Allāhumma-ghsilnī min khaṭāyāya bil-māi’ wa-th-thalji wal-barad.

O Allah, distance me from my sins as You have distanced the East from the West. O Allah purify me from my sins as white cloth is purified from dirt. O Allah wash away my sins with water, hail and snow.

_Abū Hurayrah (raḍiy Allāhu ‘anhu) narrates: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ would pause between the opening takbir and the recitation. I said: ‘May my father and mother be sacrificed for you, the pause between the opening takbir and the recitation, what do you say?’ He replied: ‘I say [the above].’ (Bukhārī 744, Muslim 598)

In the obligatory prayer, the best is to say, “Subhanak Allahumma wa bi hamdik … (glory and praise be to You…)” or “Allahumma ba‘id bayni wa bayna khatayaya… (O Allah, put a great distance between me and my sins…)”. This is what was narrated from the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) in the obligatory prayer. End quote.

3️⃣Istiftah (The Opening Duʿa’) #3

_ Narrated from ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him), from the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him), that when he stood up to pray, he said: “Wajjahtu wajhiya lilladhi fatara as-samawati wa’l-ard hanifan wa ma ana min al-mushrikin. Inna salati wa nusuki wa mahyaya wa mamati Lillahi Rabb il-‘Alamin, la sharika lahu wa bidhalika umirtu wa ana min al-muslimin. Allahumma anta al-maliku la ilaha illa anta, anta rabbi wa ana ‘abduka. Zalamtu nafsi wa‘taraftu bi dhanbi, faghfir li dhunubi jami’an, innahu la yaghfir udh-dhunuba illa anta

 Wahdini li ahsan il-akhlaq la yahdi li ahsaniha illa anta. Wasrif ‘anni sayyi’aha la yasrifu ‘anni sayyi’aha illa anta. Labbayka wa sa‘dayka wa’l-khayra kulluhu fi yadayka wa’sh-sharru laysa ilayka, ana bika wa ilayka, tabarakta wa ta‘alayta, astaghfiruka wa atubu ilayk… (I have set my face towards the Originator of the heavens and the earth sincerely [in Islam], and I am not among the polytheists. Indeed, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, the Lord of the Worlds, no partner has He. With this I have been commanded and I am one of the Muslims (those who submit to Him).

O Allah, you are the Sovereign and there is no god worthy of worship except You. You are my Lord and I am Your slave. I have wronged myself, and have acknowledged my sins, so forgive all my sins, for no one forgives sins except You. Guide me to the best of attitudes, to which no one can guide except You, and save me from the worst of attitudes, from which no one can save except You. I am here and happy to serve you. All good is in Your Hands, and and evil cannot be attributed to You.  My existence is due to You and my return is to You. Blessed are You and exalted. I seek Your forgiveness and repent to You).”[Muslim (771) and an-Nasa’i (897)] 

Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allah have mercy on him) said in Zad al-Ma‘ad (1/196):

What is narrated is that the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) only used to recite this opening supplication in qiyam al-layl. End quote.

4️⃣Istiftah (The Opening Duʿa’) #4

_Muslim (770) narrated from the Mother of the Believers ‘Aa’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) that she was asked: With what words did the Prophet of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) start his prayer when he prayed at night? She said: When he stood to pray at night, he would open his prayer with the words: “Allahumma rabba Jibra’ila wa Mika’ila wa Israfil, Fatir as-samawati wa’l-ard, ‘alim al-ghaybi wash-shahadah, anta tahkumu bayna ‘ibadika fima kanu fihi yakhtalifun, ihdini lima ukhtulifa fihi min al-haqqi bi idhnika, innaka tahdi man tasha’u ila siratin mustaqim (O Allah, Lord of Jibra’il, Mika’il and Israfil, Originator of the heavens and the earth, Knower of the unseen and the seen, You judge between Your slaves concerning that wherein they differ. Guide me concerning that wherein they differ of the truth by Your leave, for You guide whomsoever You will to a straight path).

5️⃣Istiftah (The Opening Duʿa’) #5

_Al-Bukhari (7499) and Muslim (1758) narrated that Ibn ‘Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: When the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) prayed tahajjud at night, he said: “Allahumma laka al-hamd anta nur us-samawati wa’l-ard. Wa laka al-hamd, anta qayyim us-samawati wa’l-ard. Wa laka al-hamd, anta rabb us-samawati wa’l-ard wa man fihinna. Anta al-haqqu wa wa‘duka al-haqq wa qawluka al-haqq wa liqa’uka al-haqq, wa’l-jannatu haqq wa’n-naru haqq, wa’n-nabiyyuna haqq, wa’s-sa‘atu haqq. Allahumma laka aslamtu wa bika amantu wa ‘alayka tawwakaltu, wa ilayka anabtu wa bika khasamtu wa ilayka hakamtu, faghfir li ma qaddamtu wa ma akhkhartu wa ma asrartu wa ma a‘lantu, anta ilahi la ilaha illa anta (O Allah, to You be praise, You are the Light of the heavens and the earth. To You be praise, You are the Sustainer of the heavens and the earth. To You be praise, You are the Lord of the heavens and the earth and everyone in them. You are the Truth, Your promise is true, Your Word is true, the meeting with You is true, Paradise is true, Hell is true, the Hour is true. O Allah, to You I have submitted, in You I have believed, in You I have put my trust, to You I repent, by Your help I have disputed, to You I refer for judgement. So forgive me my past and future sins, what I have done secretly and openly. You are my God, there is no god worthy of worship except You).

6️⃣Istiftah (The Opening Duʿa’) #6

اَلْحَمْدُ لِلّٰهِ حَمْدًا كَثِيْرًا طَيِّبًا مُّبَارَكًا فِيْهِ.

Alḥamdu li-llāh ḥamdan kathīran ṭayyiban mubārakan fīh.

All praise is for Allah; an abundant, sincere and blessed praise.

Anas (raḍiy Allāhu ‘anhu) narrated that a man came panting and joined the row (of congregants in ṣalāh), and then uttered [the above]. When the Messenger of Allah ﷺ finished his ṣalāh, he said, “…I saw twelve angels competing with each other to ascend with it.” (Muslim 600, an-Nasa’i  901).

7️⃣Istiftah (The Opening Duʿa’) #7

Muslim (601) narrated that Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) said: Whilst we were praying with the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him), a man who was among the people said: Allahu akbaru kabiran wa’l-hamdu Lillahi kahiran wa subhan Allahi bukratan wa asilan (Allah is most great, much praise be to Allah, glory be to Allah morning and evening.” The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said: “Who said such and such?” A man said: I did, O Messenger of Allah. He said: “I was impressed by it, for the gates of heaven were opened for it.” Ibn ‘Umar said: I never stopped saying them since I heard the Messenger of Allah (S) say that.

8️⃣Istiftah (The Opening Duʿa’) #8

 _An-Nasa’i (1617) narrated that ‘Asim ibn Humayd said: I asked ‘A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her): With what words did the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) start his prayer at night (qiyam al-layl)?

She said: You have asked about something which no one else asked before you. The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) would say “Allahu akbar (Allah is most great)” ten times, “Al-hamdu Lillahi (Praise be to Allah)” ten times, “Subhan-Allah (Glory be to Allah)” ten times, “La ilaha ill Allah (there is no god worthy of worship except Allah)” ten times and “Astaghfirullah (I seek Allah’s forgiveness)” ten times, and he would say: “Allahumm aghfir li wahdini warzuqni wa ‘afini, a‘udhu Billahi min diq il-maqam yawm al-qiyamah (O Allah, forgive me, guide me and grant me provision and well-being. I seek refuge with Allah from a difficult standing on the Day of Resurrection).” Classed as sahih by Shaykh al-Albani (may Allah have mercy on him) in Sahih Sunan an-Nasa’i.

Secondly:

Can the versions of the opening supplication be recited in both obligatory and supererogatory prayers?

Regarding the versions that have been narrated in the hadiths quoted above, some of them are mentioned in general terms, without being restricted to the night prayers. These may be recited in both obligatory and supererogatory prayers. However, in the case of the opening supplications regarding which it is stated that they were offered in the night prayers – which is most of the lengthy supplications – the Sunnah, and the best approach, is for the individual to recite them in qiyam al-layl.

For more information having to do with the opening supplication in the versions of it that have been narrated, and what is to be said in obligatory and supererogatory prayers, please see Zad al-Ma‘ad by Ibn al-Qayyim (1/195-199) and Sifat Salat an-Nabi sall Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam [The Prophet’s Prayer Described] by Shaykh al-Albani (may Allah have mercy on him) (p. 91-94) 

And Allah knows best.

Share:

Read More

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH EPISODE 11

﷽

*AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH* | Episode 11

➖ ➖ ➖  

*65 TIPS TO BUILD CONNECTION WITH ALLAAH IN SALAAH*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*EPISODE 11 - ACTIONS BEFORE SALAAH THAT COULD HELP ATTAIN KHUSHUU' (cont)*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*🕌 20. Performing Wudu’ (Ablution)*

This also works as a shield before engaging in Salaah.

It was narrated from Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه) that the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said: *_"When any one of you wakes from sleep to perform Wudu', then let him sniff water in his nose and blow it out three times, for the Shaitan spends the night on his nose."_*

[Sahih, Sunnan Nisai, Vol. 1, Book 1, Hadith 90]. 

It was narrated that Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه) said, the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said:

*_'When any one of you goes to sleep, the Shaitan ties three knots on his head, saying each time: "(Sleep) a long night." If he wakes up and remembers Allaah (ﷻ), one knot is undone. If he performs wudu', another knot is undone. If he prays, all the knots are undone and he starts his day in a good mood and feeling energetic. Otherwise he starts his day in a bad mood and feeling lethargic.'"_*

[Sunan an-Nasa'i 1607]. 

➖

*🕌 21. Warding off Anything that may Distract the Worshipper*

Al-Qaasim reported that:

‘Aa’ishah (رضي الله عنها) had a cloth with decorations on it, which she used to cover a small sunken alcove (used for sleeping or storage). The Prophet (ﷺ) used to pray facing it, and he said, *_‘Take it away from me, because it's decorations keep distracting me when I pray.’ So, she took it away and made pillows out of it.”_*

[Reported by Muslim in his Saheeh, 3/1668. A similar narration by Anas (رضي الله عنه) is recorded in al-Bukhaari, Fath alBaari, 110/391].

The Prophet (ﷺ) entered the Ka’bah to pray in it, he saw two ram’s horns. When he had prayed, he told ‘Uthmaan al-Hajabi (رضي الله عنه),  

*_“I forgot to tell you to cover the horns, because there should not be anything in the House to distract the worshipper.”_*

[Reported by Abu Dawood, 2030; Saheeh al-Jaami’, 2504].

➖

*🕌 22. Chasing Shaytaan away by Calling to Prayer*

Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه) reported, the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said:

*_"When the Mu'adhdhin calls to prayer, shaytaan runs back vehemently."_*

[Sahih Muslim 389]. 

It was narrated that Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه) said, the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said:

*_"When the call to prayer is given, the Shaitan runs away breaking wind loudly. When the Tathwb (Iqaamah) is completed, he comes back and whispers to a man in his hear, until he does not know how many (rak'ahs) he has prayed. If any one of you notices that, let him prostrate twice."_*

[Sunan an-Nasa'i 1253]. 

➖

*🕌 23. Repeating the words of the Adhaan after the Muaddhin*

Narrated Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (رضي الله عنه), Allaah's Messenger (ﷺ) said:

*_"Whenever you hear the Adhaan, say what the Mu'adh-dhin is saying."_*

 [Sahih al-Bukhari 611]. 

It was narrated that 'Alqamah bin Waqqas (رضي الله عنه) said:

_"I was with Mu'awiyah (رضي الله عنه) when the Mu'adhdhin called the Adhaan. Muawiyah said what the Mu'adhdhin said, but when he said: 'Hayya 'alas-salah (come to prayer),' he said: 'La hawla wa là quwwata illa Billah (There is no power and no strength except with Allaah);' and when he said: 'Hayya 'alal-falah (come to prosperity),' he said: 'La hawla wa la quwwata illa Billaah (There is no power and no strength except with Allaah).' After that he said what the Mu'adhdhin said, then he said: 'I heard the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) saying exactly like that.'"_

 

[Sunan Nisai Vol. 1, Book 7, Hadith 678]. 

_To be continued… إن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH EPISODE 10

﷽

*AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH* | Episode 10

➖ ➖ ➖  

*65 TIPS TO BUILD CONNECTION WITH ALLAAH IN SALAAH*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*EPISODE 10- ACTIONS BEFORE SALAAH THAT COULD HELP ATTAIN KHUSHUU' (cont)*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*🕌 14. Waiting for One Prayer after Another*

Abu Huraira (رضي الله عنه) reported: The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said:

*_“Shall I not tell you about a deed for which Allaah will expiate your sins and raise your status?” They said, “Of course, O Messenger of Allaah.” The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Perform ablution when it is difficult, take many steps to the masjid, and wait for one prayer after another, for that is like being in a fortress.”_*

[Sahih Muslim 251]. 

➖

*🕌 15. Sticking to Prayer in Congregation*

It was narrated that Ma'din bin Abi Talhah Al-Ya'muri (رضي الله عنه) said:

"Abu Ad-Darda (رضي الله عنه) said to me: 'Where do you live?' I said: 'In a town near Hims.' Abu Ad-Darda said: 'I heard the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) say: *_"There are no three people in a town or encampment among whom prayer is not established, but the Shaitan takes control of them. Therefore, stick to the congregation, for the wolf eats the sheep that strays off on its own." (One of the narrators - As Sa'ib said: "The congregation means the congregational prayer."_*

[Sunan An-Nasai 847]. 

➖

*🕌 16. Not Praying when Food Prepared that One wants to Eat is Ready*

An adage says: 

"nothing else enters the belly when hunger resides therein." 

A praying man who is hungry and has food ready on his table will find it difficult to concentrate on the Solat. Instead, his mind continues to teleport through the prayer and the food on the table.

The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said:

*_“Do not pray when there is food prepared.”_*

(Reported by Muslim, no. 560).

In another hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

*_“If dinner has been put out and the iqaamah has been given for prayer, eat dinner first and do not rush to finish it.”_*

[Agreed upon. Al-Bukhaari, Kitaab al-Aadhan...; Muslim, no. 557-559].

➖

*🕌 17. Not Praying when One Needs to Answer the Call of Nature*

The Prophet (ﷺ) forbade praying when one is suppressing the urge to urinate or defecate.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

*_“If any one of you needs to go to the toilet, and the prayer has begun, he should go to the toilet first.”_*

[Reported by Abu Dawood, No.88; Saheeh al-Jaami’, No.299].

In another report, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

*_“There is no prayer when there is food prepared or if one is suppressing the urge to expel waste matter.”_*

 [Saheeh Muslim, no. 560].

➖

*🕌 18. Sticking to Salaah with Patience (particularly in times of distress)*

Allaah (ﷻ) says:

*وَٱسۡتَعِينُواْ بِٱلصَّبۡرِ وَٱلصَّلَوٰةِۚ وَإِنَّهَا لَكَبِيرَةٌ إِلَّا عَلَى ٱلۡخَٰشِعِينَ*

*“Seek Allaah’s help with patient perseverance and prayer. It is indeed hard except for those who are humbly submissive.”*

[Al-Baqarah 2:45].

➖

*🕌 19. Using Siwaak to Cleanse the Mouth*

Using the siwaak before prayer does not only cleanse the mouth, it multiplies the reward, eradicating any disturbing odour that could occur, thus increasing the confidence whilst observing Salaah.

Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه) narrated from Aisha (رضي الله عنها) that the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

*_"use miswak, verily, it is a means of purifying the mouth and a way of seeking Allaah's pleasure."_*

[Sahih Al-Bukhaari, also narrated by Abdul-Rahman bin Abu 'Atiq from his father from Aisha in Sunnah An-Nasai. In An-Nasai, the words are "and its is pleasing to Allaah."]. 

_To be continued… إن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH EPISODE 9

﷽

*AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH* | Episode 9

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*65 TIPS TO BUILD CONNECTION WITH ALLAAH IN SALAAH*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*EPISODE 9 - ACTIONS BEFORE SALAAH THAT COULD HELP ATTAIN KHUSHUU' (cont)*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*🕌 10. Leaving Work (Formal and Informal) to Answer Allaah’s Call:*

Hearing call to prayer is a declaration that Allaah (ﷻ) is more than whatever man is doing. The Prophet (ﷺ), in battle, used to refrain from attack if he heard a call to prayer.

Al-Aswad bin Yazid (رضي الله عنه) said:

I asked `Aisha (رضي الله عنها) "what did the Prophet (ﷺ) use to do at home?" She said, "He used to work for his family, and when he heard the Adhaan (call for the prayer), he would go out."

[Sahih al-Bukhari 5363]. 

Anas (رضي الله عنه) said:

*_“The Prophet (ﷺ) used to attack at the time of the dawn prayer and hear. If he heard a call to prayer, he would refrain from them, otherwise would attack (them)._*

[Sahih Al-Albani Sunan Abi Dawud 2634].

➖

*🕌 11. Walking Calmly to the Masjid:*

We often notice people running when going to the Masjid and even when joining the prayer in other not to miss the prayer or the present rakah being observed. This in most cases is due to our lackadaisical attitude towards the 'call to prayer'. Many people don't move a foot until they hear the sound of the Iqaamah which leads to the rushing.

This many times leads to heavy breathing in order to get some air which completely disables the heart to focus on the prayer, instead it is focused on getting gas.

Narrated Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه): 

"I heard Allaah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying, *_"If the prayer is started do not run for it but just walk for it calmly and pray whatever you get and complete whatever is missed."_*

[Sahih al-Bukhari 908]. 

➖

*🕌 12. Reciting Dhikr whilst going to the Masjid:*

Praying and continuingly mentioning the name of Allaah (ﷻ) drives shaytaan away and help gain concentration.

AbdulLaah ibn 'Abbas (رضي الله عنه) said:

that he slept with the Prophet (ﷺ). He saw that he (the Prophet, ﷺ) awoke, used tooth-stick, performed ablution, and recited: "In the creation of the heavens and earth" (Al-E-Imraan 3:190), to the end of the Surah. 

Then he stood up and prayed two rak'ahs in which he prolonged the standing, bowing, and prostrations. He then uttered, turned away and slept till he began to snore. This he did three times. This made six rak'ahs in all. He would use tooth-stick, then perform ablution, and recite those verses. He then observed the witr prayer. (The version of 'Uthman has: with three rak'ahs). The mu'adhdhin then came to him and he went out for prayer. (The version of Ibn 'Isa adds: He then observed witr prayer; then Bilal came to him and called him for prayer when the dawn broke. He then prayed the two rak'ahs of the dawn prayer. He then went out for prayer). (Then both the narrators were agreed): He began to supplicate saying: "O Allaah, place light in my heart, light in my tongue, light in my hearing, light in my eyesight, light on my right hand, light on my left hand, light in front of me, light behind me, light below me, O Allaah, give me abundant light.

[Sunan Abi Dawud 1353].

➖

*🕌 13. Saying Nafilah in the Masjid before Sitting*

Abu Qataadah (رضي الله عنه) reported: The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said,

*_"When anyone of you enters the masjid, he should perform two Rak'ah (of voluntary prayer) before sitting."_*

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]. 

_To be continued… إن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH EPISODE 5

﷽

*AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH* | Episode 5

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*65 TIPS TO BUILD CONNECTION WITH ALLAAH IN SALAAH*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*EPISODE 5 - THE LIFTING OF KHUSHUU'*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

Sadly, the first thing to be taken away from this ummah will be khushuu’. The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

*_“The first thing to be lifted up (taken away) from this ummah will be khushuu’, until you will see no one who has khushuu.”_*

[Al-Haythami said in al-Majma’, 2/136: It was reported by al-Tabaraani in al-Kabeer, and its isnaad is hasan. Graded Saheeh in al-Targheeb, no. 543].

And when Khushuu’ is lifted up, minds will be distracted, the concentration and humility in salaah decreases and reward decreases as well because the reward recorded is in proportion to the degree of khushuu’ for every worshipper. 

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: 

*_“A slave may pray and have nothing recorded for it except a tenth of it, or a ninth, or an eighth, or a seventh, or a sixth, or a fifth, or a quarter, or a third, or a half.”_*

[Ahmad; Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1626].

Remember, the accursed Shaytaan, the enemy of the believers, vowed to mislead and tempt the sons of Adam, and that he will carry on doing that until the Day of Resurrection, and he will not leave any way of filling Hell with the progeny of Adam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). This is inferred in the Qur'an:

*ثُمَّ لَأٓتِيَنَّهُم مِّنۢ بَيۡنِ أَيۡدِيهِمۡ وَمِنۡ خَلۡفِهِمۡ وَعَنۡ أَيۡمَٰنِهِمۡ وَعَن شَمَآئِلِهِمۡۖ وَلَا تَجِدُ أَكۡثَرَهُمۡ شَٰكِرِينَ*

*"Then I will come to them from before them and from behind them and on their right and on their left, and You will not find most of them grateful [to You]."*

[Al-A'raf 7:17].

Shaytaan does not take a break, nor rest in his vowed attempt to mislead the son of Adam. He has vowed not to rest or take a siesta until he has won mankind soul for the Fire, hence the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

*_“Take a siesta for the devils do not take a siesta”_*

[Saheeh al-Jami’, 4/147]

Shaytaan do not rest in his attempt to lead astray mankind, hence every believer needs to improve the khushuu’ and constantly strive to guard the salaah to defeat Shaytaan. 

We hope that this 65 tips become of good benefit to everyone who seeks the assistance of Allaah (ﷻ) in khushuu’.

Whatever is written of truth and benefit is only due to Allaah’s (ﷻ) assistance and guidance, and whatever of error is of the writer alone.

 

_To be continued… إن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH EPISODE 4

﷽

*AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH* | Episode 4

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*65 TIPS TO BUILD CONNECTION WITH ALLAAH IN SALAAH*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*EPISODE 4- THE KHUSHUU' OF TRUE FAITH AND THE KHUSHUU' OF HYPOCRISY*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

Explaining the difference between the khushuu’ of true faith and the khushuu’ of hypocrisy, *Ibn al-Qayyim (رَحِمَهُ ٱللَّٰهُ) said:*

"The khushuu’ of true faith is when the heart feels aware and humble before the greatness and glory of Allaah, and is filled with awe, fear and shyness, so that the heart is utterly humbled before Allaah and broken, as it were, with fear, shyness, love and the recognition of the blessings of Allaah and its own sins.

So, no doubt the khushuu’ of the heart is followed by the khushuu’ of the body.

As for the khushuu’ of hypocrisy, it is something that is put on with a great show, but there is no khushuu’ in the heart.

One of the Sahaabah used to say,

"I seek refuge with Allaah from the khushuu’ of hypocrisy.” It was said to him, ‘What is the khushuu’ of hypocrisy?’ He said, “When the body appears to have khushuu’ but there is no khushuu’ in the heart.’

The person who truly feels khushuu’ before Allaah (ﷻ) is a person who no longer feels the flames of physical desire; his heart is pure and is filled with the light of the greatness of Allaah (ﷻ). His own selfish desires have died because of the fear and awe which have filled his heart to overflowing so that his physical faculties have calmed down, his heart has become dignified and feels secure in Allaah, the remembrance of Him, and tranquillity descends upon him from his Lord. So, he has become humble (mukhbit) before Allaah (ﷻ), *"and the one who is humble is the one who is assured."* 

[Qur'an 23:1-2 - interpretation of the meaning]

Land that is “mukhbit” is the land that is low-lying, in which water settles. So the heart that is “mukhbit” is humble and content, like a low-lying spot of land into which water flows and settles.

The sign of this is that a person prostrates to his Lord out of respect and humility, and never raises his head until he meets Him. The arrogant heart, on the other hand, is one that is content with its arrogance and raises itself up like an elevated portion of land in which water never settles.

As for overdoing it, and the khushuu’ of hypocrisy, this is the attitude of a person who tries to make a great show of khushuu’, but deep down he is still filled with desires. So, on the outside he appears to have khushuu’, but the snake of the valley and the lion of the forest reside within him, watching for prey. 

[Al-Ruuh, p. 314, Daar al-Firk edn.] 

_To be continued… إن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH EPISODE 3

﷽

*AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH* | Episode 3

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*65 TIPS TO BUILD CONNECTION WITH ALLAAH IN SALAAH*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*EPISODES 3 - INTRODUCTION: THE PLACE OF KHUSHUU' IN THE BODY*

➖ ➖ ➖ 

Heart is the place of khushuu’ and if it is in the state of khushuu’, all other organs will be in the same state of calmness and attentiveness. It's actualization lies in the presence of our hearts while we are reporting for our daily duty towards Allaah (ﷻ).

When the heart is full of khushuu, the limbs also become subservient in humility to Allaah (ﷻ). The visible physical acts are not valid and acceptable unless they are accompanied by appropriate actions of the heart, because the invisible actions of the heart inevitably affect the visible physical actions.

So, the heart is like the control unit for the physical faculties. If the control unit is good the physical faculties will also be good and vice versa. Hence the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

*_“In the body there is a piece of flesh: if it is sound the whole body will be sound and if it is corrupt then the whole body will be corrupt.”_*

[Bukhaari, Vol. 1, Book 2, H. 49]

So, khushuu’ is the tranquility of the heart and the calmness of the organs.

However, when the other body organs shows khushuu’ and no khushuu’ is in actual fact present in the heart, it is called khushuu of hypocrisy. 

Hudhayfah (رضي الله عنه) used to say:

“Beware of the khushuu’ of hypocrisy.” He was asked, “What is the khushuu’ of hypocrisy?” He said, “When the body shows khushuu’ but there is no khushuu’ in the heart.”

Fudayl ibn ‘Ayaad said:

“It was disliked for a man to show more khushuu’ than he had in his heart.” One of them saw a man showing khushuu’ in his shoulders and body, and said, “O So and so, khushuu’ is here” – and he pointed to his chest, “not here” – and he pointed to his shoulders.

[al-Madaarij, 1/521].

_To be continued… إن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More

UPHOLDING THE PRAYER | Quran

﷽

➖➖➖

UPHOLDING THE PRAYER

➖➖➖

Prayer Prevents Immorality & Evil

➖➖➖

Allah ﷻ says in the Qur'an:

وَالَّذِينَ هُمْ عَلَىٰ صَلَاتِهِمْ يُحَافِظُونَ

And those who strictly guard their Salah.

Meaning, they maintain its proper times, its pillars, its obligations and its recommended acts.

 أُو۟لَٰٓئِكَ فِى جَنَّٰتٍۢ مُّكْرَمُونَ

 They will be in Gardens, honoured. 

[70:34-35]

If you want to be from among the people of Jannah Al Firdous, salah is necessary upon you.

If you want be among those who are praised by Allah ﷻ, Salah is necessary upon you.

Do you want to be honoured by Allah ﷻ, and in Jannah? Then Salah is necessary upon you.

_

And then if you want to leave Sins and disobedience, then upon you is Salah.

Allah ﷻ says 

 إِنَّ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ تَنْهَىٰ عَنِ ٱلْفَحْشَآءِ وَٱلْمُنكَرِ 

 Indeed Salah prohibits from Immorality and Evil,

 وَلَذِكْرُ اللَّهِ أَكْبَرُ 

 And the remembrance of Allah is greater,

 وَاللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ مَا تَصْنَعُونَ

 And Allah knows what you do.

[29:45] 

Ibn Awn Al-Ansari رحمه الله said:

"When you are praying, you are doing good, it is keeping you away from immoral sins and evil wicked deeds and what you are doing is part of the remembrance of Allah which is greater."

_

Salah is the foundation of your religion! 

Praying 5 times a day is the absolute must, without it you will never improve your relationship with Allah ﷻ, nor will anything you do implement in your life be of any benefit! 

_

Without the Salah, all the other good deeds will be turned to dust!

_

Such a strong emphasis is upon Salah, that Imam Abu Hanifah رحمه الله would say the person who leaves it should be imprisoned.

_

Ibn Al Qayyim رحمه الله wrote that leaving Salah is worse than Murder!

_

So let us increase in our salah with Fardh as well as sunnah prayers.

_

But it all stems from Salah. So make the effort!

_

May Allah ﷻ make us among those who guard their Salah.

آمِيْن

Share:

Read More

What is Kushuu in Salah revised Episode 15

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH (REVISED)

EPISODE 15- ACTIONS DURING SALAAH THAT COULD HELP ATTAIN KHUSHUU'

➖ ➖ ➖

*🕌 36. Not Disturbing others with One’s Recitation*

➖

The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said: *_“All of you are speaking to your Lord, so do not disturb one another, and do not raise your voices above one another when reciting” or he said, “in prayer.”_*

[Reported by Abu Dawood, 2/83; Saheeh al-Jaami’, no. 752].

According to another report, he said, *_“Do not compete with one another in raising your voices when reciting Qur’aan.”_*

[Reported by Imaam Ahmad, 2/36; Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1951].

➖

*🕌 37. Safeguarding the Prayer by not Wandering Whilst Praying*

➖

This is either by letting one’s mind wander or by physically looking around.

‘Aa’ishah (رضي الله عنه) said: I asked the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) about looking around whilst praying, and he said: *_“That is something that the Shaytaan steals from a person’s prayer.”_*

[Al-Bukhaari 751].

According to another hadith: *_“Allaah (ﷻ) is turning towards His slave so long as he does not look around, so when you pray, do not look around.”_*

 

[Narrated by Ahmad 17800; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami ‘1724]. 

➖

*🕌 38. Not Raising One's Gaze to the Heavens*

➖

The Prophet (ﷺ) forbade us to do this and issued a warning against it.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: *_“When any one of you is praying, he should not lift his gaze to the heavens, lest he loses his sight.”_*

[Reported by Ahmad, 5/294; Saheeh al-Jaami’, no. 762].

In another report, he (ﷺ) said, *_“Let them stop it, or their eyesight will be taken away.”_*

[Reported by Imaam Ahmad, 5/258; Saheeh al-Jaami’, 5574].

➖

*🕌 39. Bearing in Mind the Fact that Allaah (ﷻ) is in Front of His Slave when He Prays*

➖

‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (رضي الله عنه) narrated that, ''the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) saw some sputum on the wall of the qiblah. He scratched it then he turned to the people and said: *_“If one of you is praying, let him not spit in front of him, for Allaah is in front of him when he prays.”_*

[al-Bukhaari 406 and Muslim 547]. 

➖

*🕌 40. Not Spitting in front of One when Praying*

➖

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: *_“When any one of you is praying, let him not spit in front of himself, for Allaah (ﷻ) is before him when he prays.”_*

[Reported by al-Bukhaari in his Saheeh, no. 397].

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: *_“When one of you stands to pray, he is talking to his Lord, and his Lord is between him and the qiblah, so none of you should spit in the direction of his qiblah, but to his left or under his feet.”_*

[Reported by al-Bukhaari, al-Fath al-Baari, no. 417, 1/513].

➖

*🕌 41. Not Spitting to the Right*

➖

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: *_“When any one of you stands up to pray, he should not spit in front of himself, because he is talking to Allaah (ﷻ) as long as he is in his prayer place; and he should not (spit) to his right, because there is an angel on his right. He should spit to his left, or beneath his feet, and bury it.”_*

[al-Bukhaari, al-Fath, no. 416, 1/512]. 

➖

*🕌 42. Trying not to Yawn when Praying*

➖

The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said: *_“If any one of you feels the urge to yawn during prayer, let him suppress it as much as he can, lest the Shaytaan enter…”_*

[Muslim, 4/2293]. 

_To be continued… إن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More

What is Kushuu in Salah revised Episode 14

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH (REVISED)

EPISODE 14 - ACTIONS DURING SALAAH THAT COULD HELP ATTAIN KHUSHUU'

➖ ➖ ➖ 

*🕌 33. Placing the Right Hand on the Left Hand and on the Chest*

➖

The Prophet (ﷺ), _*when he stood up to pray, he used to place his right hand on his left hand*_

[Muslim, no. 401], 

*_and place them on his chest_* 

[Abu Dawood, no. 759; see also Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 2/71].

The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said,

 *_“We Prophets were commanded… to place our right hands on our left hands in prayer.”_*

[Reported by alTabaraani in al-Mu’jam al-Kabeer, no. 11485. Al-Haytham said: Al-Tabaraani reported it in al-Awsat and its men are the men of saheeh. Al-Majma’, 3/155].

*Imaam Ahmad (رحمه الله)* was asked about the meaning of placing one hand on top of the other when standing in prayer. He said: _“It is humility before the Almighty.”_

[Al-Khushoo’ fi’l-Salaah by Ibn Rajab, p. 21].

*Ibn Hajar (رحمه الله)* said: 

_“The ‘ulamaa’ said: The meaning of this posture is that it is the attitude of the humble petitioner, it is more likely to prevent fidgeting, and it is more conducive to khushoo’”._

[Fath al-Baari, 2/224].

➖

*🕌 34. Keeping Eyes focused on the Place of Prostration*

➖

This helps you gain more concentration and and prevent all distractions.

It was reported from *‘Aa’ishah (رضي الله عنها) that,* the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) used to pray with his head tilted forward and his gaze lowered, looking at the ground. 

[Reported by al-Haakim, 1/479. He said it is saheeh according to the condition of the two Shaykhs - al-Bukhaari and Muslim, and al-Albaani agreed with him in Sifat al-Salaah, p. 89].

*Al-Hakim (رحمه الله) reported in al-Mustadrak that:* When the Prophet (ﷺ) entered the Ka’bah, his eyes never left the place of his prostration until he came out again. 

[al-Mustadrak, 1/479. He said it is saheeh according to the condition of the two shaykhs, and al-Dhahabi agreed with him. Al-Albaani said, It is as they said. Irwaa’ al-Ghaleel, 2/73].

The Prophet (ﷺ) _*would point with the finger next to the thumb towards the qiblah and focus his gaze upon it.*_

[Reported by Ibn Khuzaymah, 1/355, no. 719. The editor said: its isnaad is saheeh. See Sifat al-Salaah, p. 139].

According to another report, *_he pointed with his index finger and did not allow his gaze to wander beyond it._*

[Reported by Ahmad, 4/3, and by Abu Dawood, no. 990]. 

➖

*🕌 35. Not Occupying Oneself with unnecessary things*

➖

The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said: *_“Do not wipe (the ground) when you are praying, but if you have to, then do it only once.”_* 

[Reported by Abu Dawood, no. 946; Saheeh al-Jaami’, no. 7452. Also reported from Mu-ayqeeb by Imam al-Bukhaari - Fath al-Baari, 3/79].

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: *_“Prayer is an occupation in itself.”_*

[Reported by al-Bukhaari, Fath al-Baari, 3/72].

Ibn Abi Shaybah (رحمه الله) reported that *Abu Darda’ (رضي الله عنه) said:* _“Even if I were to get red camels, I would not like to wipe the gravel from my forehead.”_ 

*‘Ayaad said:* _“The salaf did not like to wipe their foreheads before they finished praying.”_

[al-Fath, 3/79].

Red camels are one of the most precious asset to the Arabs during this period just like a porche, bugatti etc. would be to us this day. 

_To be continued… إن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More

What is Kushuu in Salah revised Episode 8

AL–KHUSHUU’ IN SALAAH (REVISED)

EPISODE 8- ACTIONS BEFORE SALAAH THAT COULD HELP ATTAIN KHUSHUU' (cont)

➖ ➖ ➖ 

🕌 6. Getting Ready Early and Waiting for the Prayer*

Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه) reported that the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said:

*_"Were people to know the blessing of pronouncing Adhaan and the standing in the first row, they would even draw lots to secure these privileges. And were they to realize the reward of performing Salat early, they would race for it; and were they to know the merits of Salat after nightfall ('Isha') and the dawn (Fajr) Salat, they would come to them even if they had to crawl."_*

[Sahih al-Bukhari 652, 653, 654] 

Aws bin Aws Ath-Thaqafi (رضي الله عنه) said:

“I heard the Prophet (ﷺ) say: *_‘Whoever takes a bath on Friday, and bathes completely, and goes early, arriving early, and walks and does not ride (to the mosque), and sits close to the Imam and listens to him, and does not engage in idle talk; for every step he takes he will have the reward of one year, the reward of a year’s fasting and praying (at night).”_*

[Ibn Majaah Vol. 1, Book 5, H 1087] 

➖

*🕌 7. Wearing One’s Best and Cleanest Clothes that Covers Nakedness*

Allaah (ﷻ) says:

*يَٰبَنِىٓ ءَادَمَ خُذُواْ زِينَتَكُمۡ عِندَ كُلِّ مَسۡجِدٍ وَكُلُواْ وَٱشۡرَبُواْ وَلَا تُسۡرِفُوٓاْۚ إِنَّهُۥ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلۡمُسۡرِفِينَ*

*“O Children of Adam! Take your adornment (by wearing your clean clothes) while praying”*

[Al-A'raf 7:31] 

➖

*🕌 8. Walking to the Masjid after Ablution*

Narrated Abu Umamah (رضي الله عنه): The Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) said:

*_"If anyone goes out from his house after performing ablution for saying the prescribed prayer in congregation (in the mosque), his reward will be like that of one who goes for hajj pilgrimage after wearing ihram (robe worn by the hajj pilgrims). And he who goes out to say the mid-morning (duha) prayer, and takes the trouble for this purpose, will take the reward like that of a person who performs umrah. And a prayer followed by a prayer with no worldly talk during the gap between them will be recorded in Illiyyun."_*

[Sunan Abi Dawud 558]

➖

*🕌 9. Praying Early*

Al-'Ala' narrated to us that he entered upon Anas bin Malik (رضي الله عنه) in his house in Al-Basrah, when he had finished Zuhr, and his house was beside the Masjid. "When we entered upon him, he said: 'Have you prayed 'Asr?' We said: 'No, we have just finished Zuhr.' He said: 'Pray 'Asr.' So, we got up and prayed, and when we finished he said: 'I heard the Messenger of Allaah (ﷺ) say: *_"That is the prayer of the hypocrite: he sits and delays 'Asr prayer until (the sun) is between the horns of the Shaitan, then he gets up and pecks four (Rak'ahs) in which he only remembers Allaah a little.'"_*

[Sunnan Nisai' Vol. 1, Book 6, Hadith 512] 

_To be continued ... أن شاء الله_

Share:

Read More