JIHAD AND ISLAM || WHAT JIHAD MEANS?

There is no matter if you are a Muslims or non Muslims you must be familiar with the term Jihad  because its a hot topic on International media since from last one and a half decades specially after 9/11. Jihad comes from the Arabic root word Jahda which means to strive and struggle. in Islamic context Jihad means to strive and struggle in way of Allah.

Jihad does not means killing any person or any non muslim. but today International media is showing Jihad as killing innocent people. we often hear such words Jihadi terror, Islamic terrorism on media which as completely wrong terms.  Jihad never means killing an innocent person. Islam never allows killing an innocent person.

Holy Quran says in Surah Maidah that whoever kills an innocent person its like as he has killed the whole of humanity and whoever saves an innocent person its as he has saved the whole of humanity. There are hundreds of Verses of Quran and Hadiths of Rasool Allah SAW making it clear that killing any innocent person is Haram in Islam.

Some people today quote verses of quran out of context and try to show that Quran supports killings of innocents. but if you read these verses with context you will get the truth. its my challenge to anyone to show a single verse of Quran which supports innocent killings.

There are many types of Jihad. if you are striving in way of Allah you are doing Jihad. for example if you are helping the poor you are doing Jihad. if you are obeying your patents you are doing jihad. if you are fighting against injustice you are doing Jihad. but you are not doing Jihad when you kill a innocent human being of any religion. Its terrorism not Jihad.

May Allah Swt help us in understanding the correct meaning of Jihad.

THE CORRECT FORM OF GHUSL

Brothers and sisters some very important points are listed please take a few minutes to read...

1. Ghusl (complete bath) becomes obligatory in the following conditions:

a) When Al-Mani (fluid) is discharged owing to stimulation (whether actual or imagined) while asleep or awake.

b) When a wet dream occurs.

c) When an actual intercourse takes place (even if no discharge occurs).

d) When the private parts meet (even if no discharge occurs).

e) When a woman comes out of her regular menstrual cycle.

f) When the normal flow of blood ceases from the womb after giving birth.

Note: Ghusl is not obligatory in the following two conditions:

a) If Al-Mani (fluid) is discharged without desire due to a medical condition, or carrying a heavy load or cold

b) When prostatic fluid comes out

2. Ghusl (complete bath) is Sunnah and/or recommended in the following occasions:

a) On Fridays.

b) On Eid days.

c) After giving Ghusl to a bier.

d) Before putting on the Ihram.

e) Before entering Makkah.

f) Before entering Madina.

g) Before commencing the stay of Arafah (during Hajj)

3. Make the intention for Ghusl, “I am intending to purify myself”. 

Our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) has said, “Every action is based on Intention, and everyone shall have what he intended”. [Bukhari]

Note: Intention doesn’t need to be uttered verbally or loudly, it is an action of the heart.

4. Wash your hands up to the wrists. 

Narrated 'Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her): Whenever the Prophet (peace be upon him) took a bath after Janaba he started by washing his hands and then performed ablution like that for the prayer. After that he would put his fingers in water and move the roots of his hair with them, and then pour three handfuls of water over his head and then pour water all over his body. [Bukhari]

5. Wash all the impurities from your private parts. 

Maymunah (RA) related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) washed his private parts while having a bath. [Bukhari]

6. Wudhu should now be performed. 

Narrated Maimuna (May Allah be pleased with her): (the wife of the Prophet) Allah's Apostle (peace be upon him) performed ablution like that for the prayer but did not wash his feet. He washed off the discharge from his private parts and then poured water over his body. He withdrew his feet from that place (the place where he took the bath) and then washed them. And that was his way of taking the bath of Janaba. [Bukhari]

Note: If the surface where the person is standing is clean then feet can be washed at the same time.

7. You should now rub water through your hair three times, letting the water penetrate down to the roots of the hair. 

Note: It is obligatory for women to have the water reach the roots of the hair according to all four Imams of Fiqh either by untying the plaits of the hair or loosening them (if the water reaches the roots).

8. You should now pour water over the head and the rest of the body three times starting from the right side. 

Narrated 'Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her): Whenever the Prophet (peace be upon him) took a bath after Janaba he started by washing his hands and then performed ablution like that for the prayer. After that he would put his fingers in water and move the roots of his hair with them, and then pour three handfuls of water over his head and then pour water all over his body. [Bukhari]

9. No area of the body (even equal to a hair) should be left dry during Ghusl. 

Narrated Ali ibn AbuTalib (May Allah be pleased with him): The Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) said: If anyone who is sexual defiled leaves a spot equal to the breadth of a hair without washing, such and such an amount of Hell-fire will have to be suffered for it. Ali said: On that account I treated my head (hair) as an enemy, meaning I cut my hair. He used to cut the hair (of his head). May Allah be pleased with him. 
[Abu Dawud]

10. It is not necessary to do Wudhu afer Ghusl. 

Narrated Aisha, Ummul Mu'minin (May Allah be pleased with her): The Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him)took a bath and offered two rak'ahs of prayer and said the dawn prayer. I do not think he performed ablution afresh after taking a bath.. [Abu Dawud]

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Cleanliness is half the faith (Emaan).” [Sahih Muslim]

Please share!!

ADULTERY IN VIEW OF ISLAM

Adultery is included in one of the biggest sins. We all know what adultery is, but most of us do not know that adultery does not specifically mean to have illegal physical relations with a non mehram. It is not limited to a physical contact. It has a much broader meaning. There are many things /acts which come under adultery. And a shocking fact is that they are done by us. Knowingly and sometimes unknowingly.

Prophet Muhammad pbuh said;

Bukhari, Volume 8, Book 77, Number 609:

Narrated Ibn 'Abbas:

I did not see anything so resembling minor sins as what Abu Huraira said from the Prophet, who said, "Allah has written for the son of Adam his inevitable share of adultery whether he is aware of it or not: The adultery of the eye is the looking (at something which is sinful to look at), and the adultery of the tongue is to utter (what it is unlawful to utter), and the inner-self wishes and longs for (adultery) and the private parts turn that into reality or refrain from submitting to the temptation."

We always have choices. Its not that we cannot choose. We can do something and we can abstain from it as per our wishes. The job of satan is to present this duniya as a wonderland and to present the sins as fun filled acts. While, the job of our conscience is to protect us from the tricks of satan. Thus, we are given the free will which is backed by our conscience.

The seeing of an unlawful thing will either make us hate that thing or we will want to do that. It is again up to us. Why we should not see a wrong thing is because of our curious nature. Yes, we are born with the curious nature. We want to know. The proof is the story of adam pbuh and eve. Eve did not want to eat that forbidden fruit but it was satan who implanted doubt in her heart.

Compelled by the curiosity to know why the fruit was forbidden, adam and eve tasted it. Who knows what that fruit contained, but what we know is that Allah swt forbade them to go near that particular tree. It was their free will that led them there. Same is the case with all of us. This energy to know is always there in all of us. Now we can either channelise it in good way or bad way it up to us. Similarly, hearing a wrong word can make us hear more. Uttering a wrong word might make us say more. So there is a warning giver inside us.

Allah swt say in holy Quran;

[017:032] And do not even wander close to extra marital sex. Indeed, adultery is a way of decadence.

Thus, it is an act of disgrace and dishonor. Every sin is preferred to be done in secrecy while every good deed will be done without fear. So, whatever we cannot share with people out of the fear of disrespect is wrong. It is wrong in the eyes of Allah. And He sees us every where. Prophet Muhammad pbuh said;

Bukhari, Volume 2, Book 18, Number 154:

Narrated 'Aisha :

…. The Prophet then said, "O followers of Muhammad! By Allah! There is none who has more ghaira (self-respect) than Allah as He has forbidden that His slaves, male or female commit adultery (illegal sexual intercourse). O followers of Muhammad! By Allah! If you knew that which I know you would laugh little and weep much.

Such matters are always dealt with only one emotion. Ghairah. If ghairah is such an important matter for us, then imagine the ghairah of Allah swt. If we cannot want us to be disgraced or if we do not want ourselves to be with disgraced, then Allah swt is our creator. How can we make Him know about such things that people do. The punishment of adultery in islam is stoning to death. But there is a sahih tradition that suggests that if an adulterer does not receive the punishment and repents, then Allah is the forgiver.  Prophet Muhammad pbuh said;

Bukhari, Volume 2, Book 23, Number 329:

Narrated Abu Dhar:

Allah's Apostle said, "Someone came to me from my Lord and gave me the news (or good tidings) that if any of my followers dies worshiping none (in any way) along with Allah, he will enter Paradise." I asked, "Even if he committed illegal sexual intercourse (adultery) and theft?" He replied, "Even if he committed illegal sexual intercourse (adultery) and theft".

Thus, every sin has an eraser called repentance. If one really repents, then there is Allah mercy for him. It is again the matter of choice. we have both choices all the time.

IT'S TIME FOR MUSLIM UMMAH TO UNITE

There are more than 50 Muslim countries In the World and total Muslim population is almost touching 2 billion. Islam is fastest growing religion of the world. Arab countries are filled with Oil. all types of resources are available in Muslim countries. despite all these facts Muslim Ummah is badly suffering today. Just take the recent example of Israel attack on Gaza. Israel is a small countries which attacked and killed 2000 Innocent Palestinians and all the Muslim Ummah kept on seeing Instead of taking any action against Israel.

from Afghanistan to Iraq and from Syria to Palestine Muslims are facing occupations, humiliation and unrest. in 1400 years history of this Ummah from last few centuries we are in our worst period right now. There was a time when we ruled the world. When we were ahead than West In Science and education. but today everything is opposite.

So why this is happening with us. First of all we ourselves are responsible for this. we are not united. we have stopped following Quran and Sunnah. we have stopped gaining the knowledge. we are divided into sects and Nationalism. secondly our enemies are also trying hard to make the things worse and worse for us by doing conspiracies.

Remember the Hadith of our beloved Prophet Muhammad SAW:

The similitude of believers in regard to mutual love, affection, fellow-feeling is that of one body; when any limb of it aches, the whole body aches, because of sleeplessness and fever. [Muslim]

Muslim Ummah should be like one body. When one Muslim is in pain in one corner of the world the other in other corner should feel the pain and help him. Loving our country is natural but Nationalism should not overcome the Ummah. Islam is above country. we should also not be divided on basis of Sectarianism. Quran clearly teaches us to not be divided into sects. the solution to overcome sectarianism is following Quran and Sunnah.

we should also be ready to respond to the conspiracies of our enemies. they want to divide and conquer us. we should start gaining knowledge and make progress in different fields of life Including media. we have all types of resources available which are needed to be utilized in right way.

Democracy or martial law will not solve our problems. our struggle should be for Khilafah and establishing the system of Islam.

CHOOSING RIGHT LIFE PARTNER

Marriage is Sunnah and one of the most liked acts, if done in good intention because its benefits are many fold. Marriages does not only save the individuals from committing Haram acts (zina) but also save the society at large fro going astray. We see how west has crossed all limits and now termed as one of the most open society where no one respected but only desires are respected and served. Therefore, marriage is the best thing to do.

Once one decides to do marriage, he/she should look for the person who is not only good in character but also a fearful muslim because a person of upright character can become a real better half. Marriage is a decision that individuals have to take weighing the pros and cons of their decision. And no forceful decisions can be made as we see parents forcing their kids to marry a person of their choice. It is no sin to choose life partner for kids, but it is not permissible to force them because their children have to lead their lives with their better halves not the parents.

Second and the most important thing is, while deciding for marriage, one should not go beyond the prescribed limits of Islam. Today, young boys and girls call it their right to marry the person of their choice, out of emotions, and then leave their homes and their parents and after sometime when they realize their mistake they come back with empty hands. This is also wrong. There is a respectable way to do everything.

The evils have grown in our society only because we have left Islam and have adopted the modernist life style. This life style looks good apparently but in real this leads to broken families, broken personalities and committing sins. Marriage should not be done to TEST AND TRY a person; rather it should be dealt as a serious matter, matter of life. The individual whose life’s most important matter is considered should also be asked and encouraged to speak so that when the final decision is made, both girl and boy are happy and ready to accept this biggest responsibility.

Girls are mostly forced to get married to a person of their parent’s choice even when they are not ready. They mostly stay quiet and accept it calling it their fate. This is not what Islam says. Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.w cancelled nikah of a young virgin girl whose father married her without her will.

Narrated Al-Qasim: A woman from the offspring of Ja'far was afraid lest her guardian marry her (to somebody) against her will. So she sent for two elderly men from the Ansar, 'AbdurRahman and Mujammi', the two sons of Jariya, and they said to her, "Don't be afraid, for Khansa' bint Khidam was given by her father in marriage against her will, then the Prophet cancelled that marriage." (Bukhari Book #86, Hadith #99)

Proof 2:

Narrated Abdullah ibn Abbas: A virgin came to the Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) and mentioned that her father had married her against her will, so the Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) allowed her to exercise her choice. (Abu Dawud Book #11, Hadith #2091)

Therefore, it is wrong on part of parents if they try to impose their choice on their kids when it comes to the marriage of their children and it is also wrong if the children do anything out of emotions and then regret and ruin their lives.

Choosing life partner is very important decision so we should be looking for a person who is pious and righteous not the one who has the only qualities of being rich and good looking.

HOW A MUSLIM SHOULD DO BUSINESS?

Being Muslims and living is a Muslim majority society (though not completely Islamic in many aspects) we are more responsible than others when it comes to honesty and justice and truthfulness. Since the western system has failed to maintain the truthfulness and quality of business where, society can benefit, now they realize that there needs to be business ethics and “corporate social responsibility” if they want their business to grow. The business solely depends on the society, if people will not take any interest into a business, it will collapse, and therefore the first thing to run a business successfully is to run it truthfully.

ALLAH (swt) says in Holy Quran: 23: 7

“But those whose desires exceed those limits are transgressors”

Therefore, to exceed the limits and to ask for more than what is the right share means nothing but to invite anger of ALLAH. History has seen that no matter how successfully the buggers planned but in the end, they ended up with nothing but humiliation. The case of ENRON is the biggest example.

But those, who observe their limits, and do not ask for more than their due share, for them ALLAH says:

Holy Quran: 23: 8-11

“Those who faithfully observe their Trusts and their covenants; And who (strictly) guard their prayers. Those will be the heirs. Who will inherit Paradise: they will dwell therein (forever). “

The above verses indicate that those who do their jobs with truthfulness and those who do not break trusts, they will be the dwellers of paradise. This means that ALLAH swt likes such people.

Quran those duties which ALLAH swt has assigned to man, were first offered to the heavens and earth but they refused to take them because these duties need strong personality and moral uprightness and firm believe in ALLAH swt to bear such great responsibilities. Truthfulness, honesty and moral responsibilities are among those duties assigned by ALLAH.

ALLAH swt has told us to do business but keeping ourselves in the prescribed limits of ALLAH and HIS Messenger s.a.w.w. In surah al-baqarah verse number 282, ALLAH swt told us clearly that whenever undergoing and business or debt deal, we must sign contract and make everything transparent. Similarly, in sahih bukhair chapter 35 Messenger of ALLAH s.a.w.w has told us how to do business and trade.

Muhammad s.a.w.w. said:

“if he does  not strive  diligently to promote their welfare, he will not enter Paradise with them.” 

(Bukhari)

Islam teaches us to be just, dutiful, truthful and honest. How ALLAH’s Messenger s.a.w.w has spent His life is a best example for us. All we need to do is to be good Muslims and we will never need any CSR or business ethics as a part of our code because they are already part of our FAITH and a true Muslim’s faith is in his conscience and in his soul.

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE HUSBAND AND WIFE

QUESTION

I hear all the time of the duties of the wife in Islam, but nothing regarding the duties of the husband. What are his obligations as a husband? Does he merely have a financial obligation to his wife and nothing more? Who is to decorate the house, mow the lawn, raise the children, cook, clean, wash and iron?

Answer

Before replying to your question, I would like to clarify a basic point which should always be borne in mind in such matters.

One should clearly distinguish between the Islamic teachings and the general practice of the Muslims. Unfortunately, we are living in an age where the vast majority of the Muslims are not aware of the noble teachings of Islam nor do they practice them in their day-to-day lives. Instead, they are mostly influenced by the different cultures in which they are/have been living. Therefore, everything the Muslims practice cannot be attributed to Islam. When one evaluates the virtues of Islam, he should not refer to the practice of the Muslims of today; rather he should turn to the principles laid down in the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah. Obviously, if the Muslims have abandoned the guidance of the Shari’ah, it cannot be seen as a defect in the Shari’ah itself. It is a defect in those who have deprived themselves of this Divine Guidance.

Bearing this in mind, here is the answer to your query:

It is evident from a plain study of the relevant material found in the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah that Islam treats the bond of marriage as a bilateral contract between husband and wife, each one of them having some rights and obligations. The Holy Qur’an is very much clear on this point when it says (translation):

And they (the women) have rights similar to their obligations (2:228 )

It is clear from this verse of the Holy Qur’an that the obligations of a wife towards her husband are no less than the rights she enjoys. The Holy Qur’an has summarized the obligations of a husband towards his wife in a few words where it has made it obligatory for him to

‘keep her with fairness’ (2:229).

In another verse, the Holy Qur’an instructs him in the following words:

‘and live with [your wives] in goodness [and fairness]‘ (4:19).

Therefore, it is not correct to say that Islam has laid more emphasis on the obligations of a wife than on that of the husband. The Holy Prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) has stressed the rights of women in a relatively larger number of his sayings. To quote but a few:

The best of you are those who are best to their wives. (al-Tirmidhi)

No Muslim should detest his Muslim wife. If he dislikes some of her qualities, he may find some other qualities more pleasing.

[Hold fast to my advice with regard to women:] Treat them with goodness/kindness. (al-Tirmidhi)

These few examples are sufficient to illustrate the great concern the Prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) has shown for the rights of a woman. In fact he had dedicated a substantial portion of his last sermon at the Hajjat al-Wada’ (Farewell pilgrimage) to explain and stress the importance of a husband’s obligations towards his wife.

.. It is not a legal (Shar’i) obligation upon a wife to cook the meals or clean the house. If a woman chooses not to do this, her husband cannot compel her to do so. However, apart from the legal injunctions Islam has given some moral instructions to both the husband and wife. They should realise that they are life companions who should not restrict themselves to the legal requirements alone, but should join hands to make mutual life as comfortable and harmonious as possible. They are asked to co-operate with each other in solving their day-to-day problems. For this purpose, it is strongly advised that, as co-operating friends, they divide all the chores and duties between themselves according to their mutual convenience. The wife should take care of the home while the husband undertakes outdoor economic activities etc. this division of chores and duties was the practice of the Muslims during the lifetime of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). Even Fatimah (Radhiyallahu ‘anha), the beloved and noble daughter of the Prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam), used to carry out all the household chores herself while her noble husband ‘Ali (Radhiyallahu ‘anhu) carried out all the economic duties. The Holy Prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) encouraged her in this.

It is true that from a pure legal point of view a wife may refuse to cook meals or carry out other household chores. Similarly, a husband has the legal right given him by the Shari’ah to refuse her permission to meet her relatives. If both of them restrict themselves to such a difficult ‘legal relationship’, an atmosphere of love, harmony, mutual understanding, and bilateral co-operation cannot develop between them.
A wife should not view household chores as demeaning or disgraceful in any way. In fact, her active contribution to her own home is the basic source of strength for the family and wider society. It is great service not just to her family but to the whole nation since the welfare of the nation is dependant on a healthy institution of the family. It is very strange that when an air hostess serves meals to hundreds of strangers on an aeroplane it is seen as a manifestation of liberalism, progress, and emancipation. However, when a wife renders much lighter services to her own family it is deemed servitude, a disgrace, and backwardness.

Today the western societies are suffering a devastating breakdown of the institution of the family. Their leaders and intellectuals are mourning this devastation, which is caused by nothing other than the lack of mutual co-operation between husband and wife and their failure to determine the rights and obligations of both according to natural, biological and religious requirements.

[I would like to stress on the husband that] he should always remember that the household work undertaken by his wife is not a legal and Shar’i duty upon her. It is a voluntary service on her part for the welfare and benefit of the family. Therefore, he should always appreciate this goodwill from her. At the same time, he should never overburden her with all the household chores. Wherever possible he should try to provide her with servants or assist her himself. It has been reported in many authentic Ahadith that, despite his extremely demanding outdoor duties of Prophethood, the Holy Prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) used to carry out many domestic chores himself. For example, he used to milk the goats, wash and sew his clothes. We do not find anywhere in the Sunnah that he ordered any of his blessed wives to do this for him. However, they would carry out these chores of their own accord without him having to ask them.

[To conclude,] it is not correct to say that the Islamic books written on this subject discuss only the obligations of the wife. In fact, all the books of Islamic Law discuss the rights of both the husband and wife simultaneously. They go as far as to mention that a husband cannot travel for more than four months at any one time without the consent of his wife. Sadly, many Muslims are not aware of the teachings of their religion and, consequently, transgress in their relationship with their wives.

BENEFITS OF FAMILY

Marriage serves the purpose of bringing two families together, encouraging reconciliation between them, protecting the rights of women and children, and producing righteous offspring who will be happy in this life and the Hereafter.

Allah said:

وَعَاشِرُوهُنَّ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ فَإِن كَرِهْتُمُوهُنَّ فَعَسَىٰ أَن تَكْرَهُوا شَيْئًا وَيَجْعَلَ اللَّهُ فِيهِ خَيْرًا كَثِيرًا

Live with them in kindness, for if you dislike them, then perhaps you dislike something but Allah has placed therein much good.

Surah An-Nisa 4:19

GUIDELINES ON WOMEN WORKING OUTSIDE THE HOME

Question:

I am a 20-year-old girl studying engineering. I work during the summer in a stationary store; in order to pay my college fees, am I sinful? I wear niqab, and sometimes feel that no religious man proposes to me for this reason.

Answer:

Praise be to Allah.

Firstly:

The basic principle is that a woman should remain at home, and not go out except for necessary purposes.

Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And stay in your houses, and do not display yourselves like that of the times of ignorance”

[al-Ahzaab 33:33].

Although this is addressed to the wives of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), it also applies to the believing women. It is only addressed to the wives of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) because of their honour and status with the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), and because they are examples for the believing women.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Woman is ‘awrah, and if she goes out, the shaytaan raises his hopes (of misguiding her). She is never closer to Allah than when she stays in her house.” Narrated by Ibn Hibbaan and Ibn Khuzaymah; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Shaheehah, no. 2688.

And he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said concerning a woman’s prayer in the mosque: “Their houses are better for them.” Narrated by Abu Dawood (567) and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood. For more information please see the answer to question no. 6742.

Secondly: It is permissible for a woman to go out of her house for work, but that is subject to certain conditions. If they are met, it is permissible for her to go out.

They are: -

That she needs to work in order to acquire the money she needs, as in your case.-

The work should be suited to the nature of woman, such as medicine, nursing, teaching, sewing, and so on.-

The work should be in a place that is only for women, and there should be no mixing with non-mahram men.-

Whilst at work she should observe complete shar’i hijab.-

Her work should not lead to her travelling without a mahram.-

Her going out to work should not involve committing any haraam action, such as being alone with the driver, or wearing perfume where non-mahrams can smell it.-

That should not lead to her neglecting things that are more essential for her, such as looking after her house, husband and children.

Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen said: The field in which a woman works should be only for women, such as if she works in teaching girls, whether in administration or technical support, or she works at home as a seamstress sewing clothes for women and so on. As for working in fields that are for men, this is not permissible for her because it requires her to mix with men, which is a great fitnah (source of temptation and trouble) and should be avoided. It should be noted that it is proven that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I have not left behind me any fitnah that is more harmful to men than women; the fitnah of the Children of Israel had to do with women.” So the man should keep his family away from places of fitnah and its causes in all circumstances. End quote.

Fataawa al-Mar’ah al-Muslimah (2/981)

If these conditions are met in your work, then there is nothing wrong with you doing it in sha Allah .

We ask Allah to grant you a righteous husband, for He is able to do that.

And Allah knows best.

ABORTION IN ISLAM (Dr Zakir Naik)

Brother has asked a question that… ‘Speaking today – Scientifically… the doctors who want to abort, etc.- why does Qur’an not give permission to abort, if it is danger to the life of the mother?. Qur’an speaks about abortion in Surah Anam, Ch.  6, Verse No. 151. as well as in Surah Isra, Ch.  17, Verse No. 31, it says… ‘Kill not your children for want of sustenance, for it is Allah that will provide sustenance to you and your children, for killing of infants is a major sin’. 

So abortion is haram under normal circumstances – Example, pork is  haram, alcohol is haram, having dead meat is haram. But same time the Qur’an says in four different places, in Surah Baqarah, Ch. 2, Verse No. 173, in Surah Maidah, Ch. 5, Verse No. 3, in Surah Anam, Ch. 6, Verse No. 145,  and Surah Nahl, Ch. 16, verse No. 115, it says… ‘that if unwillingly if you disobey Allah (SWT) Allah is Rehman O Rahim’. 

If under compulsion, if you disobey Allah (SWT)  …Allah is Rehman O Rahim. If you are dying of hunger… pork is the only dish that you can have, pork becomes halal for you – It is perfectly allowed – but do not have so much, and keep on having after you do not require it. If you are in a jungle if pork is the only thing that you can find to eat… or in a desert- pork becomes allowed for you only for that time. When you come back to the city it becomes haram – So same way abortion. Just because you do not want a child… isharam – In Islam it is a major sin. But if it is a danger to the life of the mother, it is totally allowed – because in Islam the life of the mother is more precious than the life of the child which has not come in being on its own. I do know there are certain people, who say… ‘after 40 days its not allowed – before 40 it is allowed’. Qur’an is very clear cut on that – ‘ If it is a danger to your life… unwillingly if you disobey Allah (SWT), it  is totally allowed.’ So if the doctor says that if you have certain heart problems, and the labour pain will cause a strain on your heart… the mother will die – You have to abort. You have to go ahead with it, became in Islam you cannot sacrifice a greater loss, to save a small loss. The life of the mother who adult is more important than the child who cannot live on its own. In these cases if it is danger to the life of the mother, it is totally allowed in Islam – if it is not a danger, it is haram. Hope that answer to the question.

I REVERTED TO ISLAM, BUT HOW TO TELL MY PARENTS?

We would like to welcome you to the fold of Islam. May Allah the Almighty strengthen your faith. You took the decision to follow the religion that God has chosen for people. We read in the Quran what gives the meaning of:

{This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion. } (Al-Ma`idah 5:3)

Be sure that you will never regret taking this decision. Also be sure that with hardship comes ease. God, in His Infinite Wisdom, will put an end to the challenge you are going through.

While handling your problem, you have to consider some facts.

Your parents will remain your parents. You have to respect them and treat them gently. You have to show kindness to them. Islam commands us to treat parents kindly irrespective of their religion. You have to maintain a very strong relation with them. You are not allowed to cut your ties with them because they are atheists.

We are told in an authentic narration that Asma bint Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with her) said: My mother came to me during the lifetime of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) and she was a non-believer. I said to the Prophet, “My mother has come to me and she desires to receive a reward from me, shall I keep good relations with her?” The Prophet said, “Yes, keep good relation with her.” (Al-Bukhari) 

You have also to respect the belief of your parents. The Prophet never insulted or ridiculed any belief. You have your belief and your parents have theirs. Mutual respect should be the norm while dealing with your parents.

We are told in the Quran about the story of prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and how he treated his non-Muslim father.

Coming to your problem, you have first to make a lot of du`aa’ (supplication) to Allah to open the heart of your parents to accept your conversion decision. Always seek Allah’s help to pass this test.

Once you feel that the time is ready to talk to your parents, engage with them in an indirect way.

You can tell them about your feelings after conversion to Islam. Talk about your inner peace and spirituality. Talk about the effect of prayer on your personality. Explain to them the secrets of fasting and Zakah.

First and foremost, let them feel the change that Islam made in you. This can be reflected in your good manners and kind words with them. Do not give them the chance that you became a different person. Be their old daughter with a Muslim flavor in terms of being punctual, respectful, obedient and easy-going.

Be a model of a good Muslim student. Get high grades in your studies and relate this to the effect of Islam in your life and its call to seek knowledge and pursuit higher studies.

When you talk to your parents about your conversion, do not give them the feeling that you are giving them a lecture or a sermon about Islam. Remember that your parents will not accept the fact that you are preaching about Islam. Let it be a nice chat with them in a good family gathering.

Be patient and calm down while telling your parents about your conversion. Do not give up from the first trial. Listen to your parent attentively and argue with them in good manners.

Always remember that your parents’ love for you will be the main factor in accepting the decision you have taken. Once they feel that you are happy with your new lifestyle, they will welcome your decision.

Do no blame your parents for any overreaction. But blame the negative image of Islam that is presented daily on the mass media. You should consider this fact. You are representing the true image of Islam. Therefore, it is a challenge for you at this transitional period in your life.

Always read this verse and reflect on its meaning. Allah says in the Quran:

And speak to him with gentle speech that perhaps he may be reminded or fear [Allah].} (Ta-Ha 20: 44)

This was a command from Allah to Prophet Moses (peace be upon him) and his brother when they wanted to speak to Pharaoh.

I hope we have answered your question.

DO MEN NEED FIRST WIFE'S APPROVAL TO MARRY ANOTHER WOMAN?

The idea of marrying more than one woman is greatly misunderstood, not least amongst Muslim men!

Before the advent of Islam, it was quite normal for a man to take many wives in marriage, or even to take them and not marry at all. The Bible tells us that Solomon had seven hundred wives and three hundred concubines.

It was a revolutionary thing to declare that a man may take up to four wives only. And there is more, because that permission must be understood in its proper context.

The verse allowing men to take more than one wife was revealed after the Battle of Uhud, in which ten per cent of the Muslim men had been killed. Allah says what means:

And if you fear that you will not deal justly with the orphan girls, then marry those that please you of [other] women, two or three or four. But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one or those your right hand possesses. That is more suitable that you may not incline [to injustice].}(An-Nisai, 4:3)

Now, in those days there was no kind of social security. If a woman didn’t have a husband, she had no one to provide for her. To put it simply, without a husband she would starve.

In a society where there were not enough men to equal the number of women wanting to marry, it 

was revealed that a man could take more than one wife. But we must understand that this was to provide for her and to care for her.

In fact, taking a second wife is something encouraged by faith and a desire to please Allah. It is not a matter of fulfilling sexual urges.

If Muslim men today are taking a second wife to spice up their own sex life, they are quite misunderstanding what Islam is saying. In taking a second wife, a Muslim man should be taking a more pious wife or a woman who is in need.

In direct answer to your question, then, according to scholars, the Shari`ah does not require the husband to get the consent of the first wife for a second marriage. This, of course, assumes that the conditions for a second marriage are right according to the Shari`ah. In such a case he can legally go ahead and marry.

But, as we have said, the permission to marry more than one wife is given in the Quran in the context of protecting widows, as they need to be taken care of.

In the very same verse it is stated clearly that if a man cannot treat his wives with equity, he should not marry more than one woman. This is a clause usually ignored or taken lightly by many men, depriving women of the rights Allah Almighty has granted.

It is also worth mentioning that the bride has the right before marriage to require that her fiancé agrees in advance to certain conditions of hers, in case he is interested in pursuing another marriage later on.

Actually, this can be part of the marriage contract. As it is the duty of Muslims to fulfill all obligations, the Muslim husband has no choice but to honor such a condition.

As in so many cases, there is a very fine balance between understanding what a law says and also understanding what a law is intended for.

As Muslims, we seek to become Mu’mineen, or “good Muslims,” real men and women of faith. Islamic Shari’ah is intended to help us achieve that, in sha Allah .

I hope this helps answer your question.

DEATH AND THE HEREAFTER IN ISLAM

�Every soul shall taste death. � Quran 29:57

Death is Near

"Wheresoever you may be, death will overtake you even if you are in fortresses built up strong and high!"Quran 4:78

Death is the reality from which none can escape. It draws nearer every day; every hour; every minute. According to the CIAs The World Factbook 2007, almost two people die each second. Thats a staggering 57.9 million people each year! Every single being will reach this inescapable fate, regardless of their age, health, background, social status or piety. Where are the past kings, the billionaires and the powerful? Where are the once beautiful, the famous, and the intellectual elite?

The Reality of Death

Death is not a disaster, but simply a passing from this world onto the next. It should make us reflect and ponder about the purpose of life, and what will become of us after death. 

Allah (God) has informed us in the Quran that He has created us with the purpose of worshipping Him alone and that He made this life a test to see who will fulfil that purpose: 

�And I did not create the Jinn and mankind except to worship Me.�Quran 51:56

God has also informed us the purpose behind the creation of death and life: 

�Allah is He who created death and life to test you as to which of you is best in deed.�Quran 67:2

One does not prepare for death by pre-paying funeral services or selecting a coffin in advance. It is about fulfilling ones purpose in life to worship Allah alone, to live according to His commandments, and perform good deeds. The concept of worship in Islam is all encompassing and is not merely restricted to praying. In fact, any action that is pleasing to Allah is considered an act of worship, and a person will be rewarded for it.

The Moment of Death

�Let every person consider what they have sent ahead for tomorrow.�Quran 59:18

Every day we see examples of death. We perceive a peaceful death as one with neither pain nor violence. However, this is not necessarily the case. When a person dies, the soul leaves the body, and so the physical appearance of the body may not reflect the situation of the soul. The peacefulness or unease of the soul will be a direct result of how well a person fulfilled their purpose in this life, and has little to do with the cause of death. 

Consider an example of two people who have a one-way ticket to a destination they have never been to before. The first person takes the time to learn about the language, culture and practices relating to the destination. He acquires the right currency and vaccinations, and when it comes time to travel, he arrives without any surprises. He is safe and content, because he has taken the time to prepare. 

In contrast, the second person is careless in his preparations and simply lives for the moment until the time comes to depart. He arrives at the unknown destination scared and confused. His unpreparedness causes him to end up with a dreadful fate, as all of the things he has brought with him were of no use. 

Describing such a heedless person, Allah says in the Quran: 

�When death comes to one of them, he says, �My Lord, send me back! So that I can do good in the things I neglected.� By no means! It is a mere word that he speaks.�Quran 23:99-100

Also consider the response of those people consigned to hell, when they are questioned regarding what put them there: 

�They will say, �We were not of those who prayed, nor did we feed the poor. And we used to enter into vain discourse with those who engaged in it, and we used to deny the Day of Recompense (the Day of Judgement) until there came to us the death that is certain.� �Quran 74:43-47

We all have an appointed time with death, and we will all travel to this unfamiliar destination. Ask yourself - have you prepared for it?

The Purpose of Life

�Did you think that We (God) created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us (God)?�Quran 23:115

Life is a test which ends in death, but it does not mark the end of ones existence. Once death arrives, the opportunity to do good ceases. It will be too late to repent and our fate will be determined solely by our beliefs and deeds that we do in our current life. Man's life is divided into two parts: a brief stay in this world, and an eternal life in the next. Any sane mind will conclude that eternal bliss is far more beneficial than short lived pleasures on Earth. 

Allah created mankind and made us responsible for our actions by granting us freedom of choice, and intelligence to discern right and wrong. If there were no afterlife in which the good were rewarded and the bad punished, that would contradict the perfect justice of Allah. 

Hence it is an absolute demand of justice that there be a Day of Judgement on which every soul is brought to account.

�Shall We then treat the People of Faith like the People of Sin? What is the matter with you? How do you judge?�Quran 68:35-36

The Day of Judgement

�Death, from which you are running away from, will certainly catch up with you. Then you will be returned to the Knower of the Unseen and the Visible (i.e. Allah) and He will inform you about what you did.�Quran 62:8

Everyones deeds in this life are meticulously recorded and preserved, as Allah says: 

�And the Book (of Deeds) will be placed open, and you will see the sinful in great terror because of what is recorded therein. They will say, "Ah! Woe to us! What is this book that leaves nothing small or great, but takes account thereof!" They will find all that they did placed before them. And your Lord does injustice to no one.�Quran 18:49

We will be amazed by the accuracy of such a record of all our actions, as we will be reminded of matters long forgotten. Allah says, 

�Allah has kept account of it, while they have forgotten it.�Quran 58:6

Thinking deeply on this should make us ashamed of committing any sin while knowing that it will be recorded against us and exposed on the Day of Judgement in front of Allah. 

For those who doubt Allah’s abilities to resurrect and judge them, Allah quotes the disbelievers as saying:

� �Who will give life to these bones when they have rotted away and became dust?� Say (O Muhammad), �He will give life to them Who created them for the first time! And He is the All-Knower of every creation!� �Quran 36:78-79

Paradise and Hell

Those who believe in Allah as the only God worthy of being worshipped, and perform good deeds, will be rewarded with Paradise. 

�Verily, the dwellers of the Paradise, that Day, will be busy in joyful things. They and their wives will be in pleasant shade, reclining on thrones. They will have therein fruits (of all kinds) and all that they ask for.�Quran 36:55-57

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) narrated that Allah said: 

�I have prepared for My righteous slaves such excellent things as no eye has ever seen, nor an ear has ever heard, nor a human heart can ever think of.� 

This is in sharp contrast to the people who deny the Oneness of Allah, who will be told: 

�This is the Hell which you were promised! Burn therein this day, for that which you used to disbelieve.�Quran 36:63-64

For the disbelievers is the worst of punishments:

�Indeed, Hell has been lying in wait for the transgressors, a place of return, in which they will remain for ages [unending]. They will not taste therein any coolness or drink except scalding water and dirty wound discharges - an appropriate recompense [according to their evil acts]! Indeed, they were not expecting an account, and denied our verses with emphatic denial. But all things We have recorded in a Book. �So taste the penalty, and never will We (God) increase you except in torment.� �Quran 78:21-30

Conclusion

�O man! What has deceived you concerning your Lord, the Most Generous? Who created you, fashioned you perfectly, and gave you due proportion. In whatever form He willed, He put you together. No! But you deny the Recompense (reward for good deeds and punishment for evil deeds on the Day of Judgement).�Quran 82:6-9

�Indeed, the righteous will be in pleasure, and indeed, the wicked will be in Hellfire.�Quran 82:13-14

Death is inevitable. Our purpose in life is to worship Allah alone, perform acts of righteousness and to avoid all that is forbidden. Our fate is being decided on the basis of our present actions, so we can either make use of our opportunities on Earth to ensure an eternal place for ourselves in Paradise, or we can waste them and condemn ourselves to eternal punishment in Hell.

MARRIAGE IN ISLAM – PURPOSE AND VIRTUES

Islam, unlike other religions is a strong advocate of marriage. There is no place for celibacy like, for example the Roman Catholic priests and nuns. The prophet (peace be upon him) has said

“There is no celibacy in Islam.Marriage is a religious duty and is consequently a moral safeguard as well as a social necessity. Islam does not equal celibacy with high “taqwa/Iman”.

The prophet has also said, “Marriage is my tradition who so ever keeps away there from is not from amongst me”. [Narrated by Ibn-e-Majah]

Marriage acts as an outlet for sexual needs and regulate it so one does not become a slave to his/ her desires.It is a social necessity because through marriage, families are established and the family is the fundamental unit of our society. Furthermore, marriage is the only legitimate or halal way to indulge in intimacy between a man and a woman.

Islam takes a middle of the road position to sexual relations , it neither condemns it like certain religions, nor does it allow it freely. Islam urges us to control and regulate our desires, whatever they may be so that we remain dignified and not become like animals.

The Qur’an has described this relationship between men and women, which brings love, harmony, trust and compassion, in the most moving and eloquent terms

Among His signs is [the fact] that He has created spouses for you among yourselves so that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has planted love and mercy between you; In that are signs for people who reflect. [Quran 20:30]

They are a garment for you and you are a garment to them … [Quran 2:187]

And the believers, men and women, are protecting friends of one another; they enjoin the right and forbid the wrong, and they establish worship and they pay the poor-due, and they obey Allah and His messenger; as for those, Allah will have mercy on them; Lo! Allah is Mighty, Wise. Allah hath promised to believers – men and women – gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein, and beautiful mansions in gardens of everlasting bliss; but the greatest bliss is the good pleasure of Allah: This is the supreme felicity. [Quran 9:71-72]

Purpose of Marriage

The word “zawj” is used in the Qur’an to mean a pair or a mate. In general it usage refers to marriage. The general purpose of marriage is that the sexes can provide company to one another, love to one another, procreate children and live in peace and tranquility to the commandments of Allah.

Through Marriage, the conjugal relationship between a man and a woman becomes lawful. It provides a legitimate outlet for recreation as well as procreation. Islam regards sex as natural and good, but restricts it to the partners of marriage so as to ensure the responsibility for its consequences.

Marriage provides spiritual, physical, emotional and psychological companionship. This companionship generates and sustains love, kindness, compassion, mutual confidence, solace and succor (sakinah). It lays a spiritual and legal foundation for raising a family. The children born of the matrimonial union become legitimate and mutual rights of inheritance are established.

Conditions for marrying

For a marriage to be valid certain conditions must be met.

1. Consent of both parties.

One of the conditions of a valid marriage is consent of the couple.

Marriage by definition is a voluntary union of two people.

There are many texts that support the couple in this sensitive issue, for example the report quoted by Imam Bukhari from al-Khansa’ bint Khidam:

“My father married me to his nephew, and I did not like this match, so I complained to the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him). He said to me: `Accept what your father has arranged.’ I said, `I do not wish to accept what my father has arranged.’ He said, `Then this marriage is invalid, go and marry whomever you wish.’ I said, `I have accepted what my father has arranged, but I wanted women to know that fathers have no right in their daughter’s matters (i.e. they have no right to force a marriage on them”

At first, the Prophet (Peace be upon him) told al-Khansa’ to obey her father, and this is as it should be, because the concern of fathers for their daughters’ well-being is well-known. But when he realized that her father wanted to force her into a marriage she did not want, he gave her the freedom to choose, and saved her from the oppression of a father who wanted to force her into an unwanted marriage.
Islam does not want to impose an unbearable burden man or woman by forcing them to marry someone whom they dislike, because it wants marriages to be successful, based on compatibility between the partners; there should be common ground between them in terms of physical looks, attitudes, habits, inclinations and aspirations.

2. “Mahr” a gift from the groom to his bride.

Mahr is the gift that is given by the husband to his wife at wedding. It can be anything in any amount, as agreed by the bride and bride-groom. Allah says about Mahr in the Chapter `Woman’ in Quran:

And give the women (on marriage) their Mahr as a free gift .. [Quran 4:4]

But if you had given the latter a cantar (of gold i.e. a great amount) for dower (Mahr) take not the least bit of it back … [Quran 4:20]

Marry with whom?

Allah also gives us freedom and urges us to:

“Marry the women of your choice..” [Quran 4:3]

Choose the righteous partner,

“This world is just temporary conveniences, and the best comfort in this world is a righteous women.” Sahih Muslim 10/56, Kitab al-rida’, bab istihbab nikah al-bikr.

No-one is a suitable partner for the good, believing woman except a good, believing man; and no-one is a suitable partner for the wayward, immoral woman but a wayward, immoral man, as Allah Subhana Wa ta’Alla has said:

Women impure are for men impure, and men impure for women impure, and women of purity are for men of purity, and men of purity are for women of purity (Qur’an 24:26)

This does not mean that the Muslim woman or man should completely ignore the matter of physical appearance, and put up with unattractiveness or ugliness. It is their right to marry a person for whom his/her heart may be filled with love, and who is pleasing to both in appearance and in conduct. Appearance should not be neglected at the expense of inner nature, or vice versa. A woman should choose a man who is attractive to her in all aspects, one who will gain her admiration and respect. The true Muslim is never dazzled by outward appearances.

For Muslim men and women – for believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are constant and patient, for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in charity, for men and women who fast [and deny themselves], for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah’s praise – for them has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward.) (Qur’an 33:35)

In order to achieve this great goal of strengthening the marriage bond, and establishing a stable family life, it is essential to choose the right partner in the first place.

“A woman is married for (one of) four reasons: her wealth, her status, her beauty and her religious devotion. So marry the religious woman, else you be a loser.” (Saheeh Al-Bukhari)