How to Perform Hajj?

UMRAH:To take provisions for a journey while leaving for Umrah.
(Surah: Al-Baqarah, Verse: 197)not to take the animal for sacrifice, while leaving with the intention to perform Hajj-e-Tamattu.(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)Before leaving home to use fragrance free oil.(Saheeh Bukhari)Then to embark upon the carriage, say Allah-o-Akbar  three times, and recite the supplication as under:

Purified is that Divine Entity which gave us control and authority over this carrier (carriage) although we could not have brought it under our control: and indeed we have to return to our Supreme Lord. O, Allah! We seek from you, in this journey, the virtues and piety; and ask for such acts as approved and liked by You. O, Allah! make this journey comfortable and short for us. O, Allah! You (our) the Companion in the journey, and the Custodian of our family. O, Allah! I seek, from the discomfort of the journey, from bad happenings and scenes, and from bad days, when in the midst of the family and wealth, Your refuge and protection.
(Saheeh Muslim)

THE AHRAM:
"Ahram" is that dress or costume which is attired while performing Hajj or Umrah. One who is attired in the Ahram is known as "Muhrim". Ahram is attired at fixed or appointed places (Sites). Each, of these places, is known as "Miqat". Zulhalifa is the Miqat for the people of Medina; Qaran-ul-Manazil for those from Najad, Hajfa for Syria; and Yalamlam for the people of Yemen.

(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

For Iraqis the Zaat-e-Arq.
(Saheeh Muslim)

For the Egyptians Hajfa.
(Nasai, Sanad Saheeh)

Those residing in between these Miqats and Makka-e-Moazzamah, should wear "Ahram" in their own locality (town, district etc); those living in Makka-e-Moazzamah from Makka-e-Moazzamah; and living and residing at places, other than those mentioned above, should wear "Ahram" from those Miqats, which happen to be on their way to the holy place.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

After having reached at Miqat to wash head with Khatmi (Khatmi is a sort of plant with pink flowers grown in marshy land) and put some oil on the head.
(Rawah Al-Bazzar, Sanad Saheeh)

Then to take bath.
(Rawah Hakim, Sanad Saheeh)

If wearing a saffron mixed perfume, then wash that for three times.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)
 

Then to use the best available perfume on head and beard.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

Then the man should take two such sheets which have not been scented with any saffron mixed perfume; and then to get attired in an "Ahram" with both sheets; with one to cover the head and upper body; and with the other make "Tehband" wear around the waist.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

To put on slippers, but not to wear any clothes except the two sheets; neither tie an Amama, nor wear a cap, nor wear socks.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

A woman may wear ornaments and all sorts of costumes.
(Abu Dawood, Sanad Saheeh)

But the woman neither to hide face, nor wear gloves.
(Saheeh Bukhari)

Both, man and woman not to wear any dress coloured with saffron and "Vars".
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

While wearing "Ahram" if any shine or trace of perfume is in head or beard, or fragrance of perfume is being felt from head or beard then it is all fair, and there is nothing wrong in it.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

Immediately, after having tied the Ahram to say:

(Saheeh Bukhari)

Then facing towards Qibla to say:

(Sunan Behqi, Sanad Saheeh)

i.e. say these words:

Translation: O, Allah! I am present. I am present for Umrah(3) or say these words twice:
(Saheeh Bukhari)

(Saheeh Muslim)

TALBEEH:TALBEEH: These are the words uttered by pilgrims in the praise of Allah, on the occasion of Hajj. 
Then loudly and continuously recite the words:

Translation: I am present, O, my Allah! I am present; I am present, there is none, who is partner to You. Indeed all praise and goodness is for You, and the Kingdom too belongs to You; there is none who is partner to You. 
Then at times say this also: 

(Ibn-e-Majah, Sanad Saheeh)

To stay for a day and night after having reached at the place known as "Zi Tawa", then in the morning, after Fajr salat, have a bath.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

Then the same day.
(Saheeh Muslim)

In the morning.
(Saheeh Bukhari)

From the direction of height, that after entering in "Batha", and passing from "Sanital Alia" and "Kada'A" enter into Makka-e- Moazzamah.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim) 
TAWAF-E-KAABA:

MAKING A CIRCUIT OF THE HOLY KA'BA.
To perform ablution (Wazoo) after having reached Makka-e-Moazzamah.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

Then to come near Hujra-e-Aswad. (Saheeh Muslim) and say: 

(Musnad Imam Ahmad, Sanad Saheeh)

Then to give a kiss to Hujra-e-Aswad and if not possible to give a kiss, to touch with the hand and kiss the hand.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

If it is not possible to touch even with the hand, then touch Hujra-e-Aswad with any stick. (Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim) and
kiss the stick.
(Saheeh Muslim)

If it is not possible to touch Hujra-e-Aswad even with the stick, then point towards Hujra-e-Aswad with any object.
(Saheeh Bukhari)

Then to pull the sheet out from the right armpit and put it over the left shoulder. (This process is called as "Iztibaa") and keep the left shoulder covered.
(Tirmizi, Sanad Saheeh)

Then to make a circuit around the Ka'ba. To start the circuit from the right side. While making the circuit, the Ka'ba should be on the left side. Then to cover the distance between Hujra-e-Aswad and "Rukn-e-Yamani, by running in a rigid and stiff manner. (This is called as Ramal), after reaching Rukn-e-Yamani, to touch that.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

Then, with normal gait, to start towards Hujra-e-Aswad.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

Then in between Hujra-e-Aswad and Rukn-e-Yamaani, to recite this supplication:
(Rawah Ahmad, Sanad Saheeh)

Translation: O, our Supreme Lord, bless us with goodness in this world, and the world hereafter, and protect us from the anguish and torment of hell. 
Then after having reached at Hujra-e-Aswad, say  and kiss that. (Saheeh Bukhari), or 
To touch with the hand, and kiss the hand; or touch with the stick, and give a kiss to the stick. (Saheeh Muslim) or point with any object towards that.
(Saheeh Bukhari)

Then to make another two circuits in a similar way; that is to perform "Ramal" in the first three rounds, then complete four rounds with normal gait.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

Rest of the actions (functions) to be performed in every round, as performed in the first round. However, in the last four rounds also cover the right shoulder. Exposing of right shoulder is only linked to "Ramal".
(Abu Dawood, Sanad Saheeh)

When seven-7 rounds have been completed, then to come to Muqam-e-Ibrahim (the place, site, of Hazrat Ibrahim Alaihi Salaam) and to recite the supplication as under: (Saheeh Muslim)

Translation: And make the place of Ibrahim a place for offering prayers.

Then to stand in a manner so that Muqam-e-Ibrahim comes in between himself and the holy Ka'ba.
(Saheeh Muslim)

Then to offer two rikaat of salat.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

In these rikaats recite Surah:  and . After the two rikaat of salat is over, again to give a kiss to Hujra-e-Aswad; or touch with hand or a stick, and kiss the hand or the stick, or point toward the Aswad with some object.
(Saheeh Muslim)

Then to go to the well of the Zam Zam, drink water Zam Zam, and pour some water on the head.
(Saheeh Muslim) 
SA'I OF SAFA AND MARWA:
(The word "SA'I'" means endeavor, effort and purpose: It is the process which comprises running in between Safa and Marwa) 
Then to come out from Baab-e-Safa and to go towards the Koh-e-Safa.
(Saheeh Muslim) 
To Recite the supplication given below, when reach near the Koh-e-Safa:

Translation: Indeed, Safa and Marwa are one of the signs of Allah; and then say as:

Translation: I begin from where Allah has begun.

Then to climb up the Safa to a height from where Ka'ba is visible. Then to turn the face towards the Ka'ba. (Saheeh Muslim) and
raise both the hands.
(Abu Dawood, Kitab-ul-Hajj, Sanad Saheeh) 
Then to narrate oneness of Allah by reciting then say  and recite as under:

Translation: There is no Supreme Lord and Worshipful save Allah alone. None is no partner to Him; the Kingdom belongs to Him, and for Him to be all the praise; and He is the absolute Omnipotent. Only He is to be worshiped, and He alone is the "Remover" of all difficulties and problems; and He honoured His promise; helped his man; and He alone defeated all the armies. 
Then to offer prayers; after prayers, recite the same words and pray; then again for the third time to recite the same words of praise and oneness of Allah, and pray.
(Saheeh Muslim)

Then to descend from Safa, and to start moving towards the Marwa; when has reached the center of the valley, start running.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

When the center of the valley is over, then to stop running; besides the central part of the valley, at times, walk briskly, and then slowly.
(Tirmizi, Kitab-ul-Hajj, Sanad Saheeh)

Climb up the Marwa slowly; and after having reached at the top of Marwa, do exactly what had done at Safa; and this way one round is over; after this, in a similar way, from Marwa go to Safa; this completed the second round; then similarly, from Safa to Marwa, then Marwa to Safa. Safa to Marwa, then from Marwa to Safa; from Safa to Marwa, in that way the last round comes to an end at Marwa.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim)

To recite, praise and oneness of Allah, every time climb up the Safa and Marwa in a way, as had done in the beginning at Safa.
(Musnad Imam Ahmad, Sanad Saheeh)

SHAVING OR CUTTING OFF THE HAIR:
Then to get the hair of head shaved or trimmed off, and then take off the "Ahram".
(Saheeh Bukhari)

Women not to get their heads shaved, just a little trimming off the hair of their heads.
(Abu Dawood, Kitab-ul-Hajj, Sanad Saheeh)

With the taking off "Ahram", all the restrictions linked with the "Ahram" too are lifted.
(Saheeh Bukhari)

"HAJJ": THE PILGRIMAGE TO THE MAKKAH:

The "Ameer" (Head of The State) to deliver the sermon on 7th of Zul Hijjah, and educate regarding the rites (ceremonies) of hajj.
(Rawah Hakim, Sanad Saheeh) 
MIQAT: For those, performing "Hajj-e-Tamattu", Makka-e- Moazzamah is the Miqat. So these people should wrap up "Ahram" while still in Makka-e-Moazzamah.
(Saheeh Muslim)

AHRAAM: For performing Hajj, all the precepts regarding Ahram, are the same, as already described under the title of "Umrah"

Timings of Prayers

1. Time For Fajr: It begins with the dawn of the day, and is over with the rising of the sun.
(Saheeh Muslim) 
2. Time For Zuhr: The time for Zuhr begins after the setting of the sun, and lasts till the time for Asr starts, in other words the time for Zuhr remains in force till the shadow of a man attains the size equal to his height, while measuring the size of the shadow, the shadow at the time of setting of the sun, is deducted.
(Saheeh Muslim) 
In extreme hot weather, to make Zuhr cool that is to offer Zuhr salat when the intensity of heat has subsided.
(Saheeh Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim) 
3. Time For Asr: The time for 'Asr' begins, as soon as the time for Zuhr is over, that is when the shadow of a man becomes equal to his height, and persists till the sun does not look pale. (Saheeh Muslim) (While measuring the size of the shadow, the size of the real shadow should be deducted from the shadow.
(Nasai, Sanad Hassan) 
4. Time For Maghrib: The time begins after sun set, and persists till the disappearance of evening twilight.
(Saheeh Muslim) 
5. Time For Isha: It begins after the disappearance of evening twilight. and persists till midnight.
(Saheeh Muslim)

Islamic History: Reality Uncovered & Myths Exposed

The world witnessed the greatest and most astonishing series of conquests by Jamaat-ul-Muslimeen in the era of Muhammad Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) and his successors i.e. the twelve Caliphs. In only a few years, Muslim controlled areas were spread over a vast territory from Medina to all of Mesopotamia, Syria and Palestine. Egypt had been wrested from the Byzantine Empire; the numerically superior Persian armies had been over run decisively, later the Muslim armies swept completely across North Africa to the Atlantic Ocean. There they turned north and, crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, overwhelmed the Visigoth Kingdom in Spain. This was later followed by the surrender of India and its adjoining areas. Thus in a matter of a few decades hundreds of thousands of miles of world territory was effectively under Muslim control.

It was only because the enemies of Islam could no longer fight the invading Muslim armies that they devised a covert, satanic strategy of creating disunity in the Muslim ranks. The enemies of Allah tried to create feelings of discord and neglect among the masses and later by inventing lies against the noble Muslim Caliphs in order to create unrest in the Islamic state. When this strategy did not yield the desired results they devised a more sinister plan to derail the spread of Islam. This evil plan was spread over decades and centuries and the real objective was to distort the glorious history of Islam and the common Muslims of that time, but the real target was the Islamic Caliphate. Unverified reports made there way into books on Islamic history which presented such a dark and gloomy image of our noble Caliphs that the subsequent Muslim generations could only hang their heads in shame and the followers of Islam were left embarrassed when questions were raised by Western researchers about these historical events!

The reason for this distorted history taking its roots in the later books is briefly outlined below.

Historians who compiled the earliest books on Islamic History only collected the narrations from the sources without actually filtering through them. They only recorded the events, as they were narrated and not according to the authentication of the source. Thus, the authentic and the false narrations were all intermingled in the collective works and the subsequent readers of history considered all of them to be the true Islamic History. The enemies of Islam then exploited these shortcomings and created myths and fictitious tales out of these incomplete and unverified historical collections and these were later published in huge numbers and distributed through out the Islamic world as HISTORICAL FACTS. An example of this is the Maqtal e Hussain based on the tragedy of Karbala by Abu Mikhnaf Lut Ibn Yahya.

The so-called HISTORICAL FACTS in various books on Islamic history are unreliable to say the least because no effort was made to verify whether the narrations in these books were authentic or not? Did they even have a chain of narrators or Sanad? Who was the narrator? From which source did he get the record of these events when he was not even alive at the time these alleged wars and sieges between the Sahaba took place? All these simple questions were left unanswered and great quantity of historical works was based on such unverified myths and lies. If we are to trust these so called historical works then we will have to put aside the Quran and Saheeh Ahaadith because they give us quite a different picture of the Sahaba (Radi Allah u Anhum) than what is given in these historically distorted books.

Thus we should reject all such narrations as these are purely an effort by the enemies of Islam to taint the bright age of Islam which was based on the principles laid down by Allah Subhana hu Wa Ta'alaa in the Quran and perfected in action by Muhammad Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) and his Companions (May Allah be pleased with all of them).

The twelve Caliphs of Islam whose era was the golden age of Islamic dominance are mentioned below:

1.Abu Bakr Siddiq (Radi Allah u Anho)

2.Umar Ibn Khattab (Radi Allah u Anho)

3.Usman Ibn Affan (Radi Allah u Anho)

4.Ali Ibn Ali Talib (Radi Allah u Anho)

5.Hasan Ibn Ali (Radi Allah u Anho)

6.Muawiyah Ibn Abi Sufyaan (Radi Allah u Anhuma)

7.Yazeed Ibn Muawiyah (Rahmatullah Alaihi)

8.Marwaan (Rahmatullah Alaihi)

9.Abdul Malik Ibn Marwaan (Rahmatullah Alaihi)

10.Abdullah Ibn Zubair (Radi Allah u Anho)

11.Waleed (Rahmatullah Alaihi)

12.Umar Ibn Abdul Aziz (Rahmatullah Alaihi)

All these above mentioned personages enjoyed tremendous respect of their subjects and they were leaders of the highest caliber, not only this but they served their people with absolute honesty and gave the highest priority to the welfare of the Muslim community.

We cannot in one article present their virtues in totality but a modest effort is being made to let the readers know the fine qualities of these exemplary men.

Allah thus mentioned collectively regarding the virtues of the Sahaba:

So (O Companions of the Prophet!) if these people bring faith the way you have brought faith, then they shall be rightly guided, but if they turn away, then they are only in opposition. So Allah will suffice you against them. And He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.

(Surah Al Baqarah: ayat 137)

(The Companions of Muhammad are) Men whom neither trade nor sale diverts them from the Remembrance of Allah, nor from offering Salat perfectly, nor from giving the Zakat. They fear a day when hearts and eyes will be overturned (from the horror of torment).

(Surah An Noor: ayat 37)

When those who disbelieve had put in their hearts pride and haughtiness-the pride and haughtiness of the era of ignorance, -then Allah sent His calmness and tranquility upon His Messenger and upon the believers, and made the word of piety (Taqwa) stick to them, and they were indeed well entitled to it and worthy of it. And Allah is the All-Knower of everything.

(Surah Al Fath: ayat 26)

If the Lord Almighty Himself praises the belief, piety and good deeds of a people, how can we ever have even the slightest of doubt about their greatness? But Satan spawned an evil web upon the minds of such people who lost the sight of such immortal words as found in the Quran and challenged the integrity and faith of these people by believing in the lies concocted by the enemies of Islam! Innaa Lillahi Wa Innaa Ilaihi Rajeun!

It was not such a huge task to separate the chaff from the grain and present the true and authentic Islamic History based on the most correct of all sources, but it remains a mystery why the mainstream historians never paid any attention to this.

By the grace of Allah Subhana hu Wa Ta'alaa it was Syed Masood Ahmad (Rahmatullah Alaihi), who took up this task and presented the most authentic book ever written on the History of Islam and Muslims. This is no exaggeration by any means because the sources he has cited in his book are the most authentic sources of Islamic law, history and practice, namely the HOLY QURAN, SAHEEH BUKHARI AND SAHEEH MUSLIM.

No one can ever doubt the authenticity of these three books and thus there remains no doubt that this history is by far the most correct of all.

The title he rightly chose for this unparalleled book on Islamic History was "Saheeh Tareekh ul Islam wal Muslimeen".

Jamaat-ul-Muslimeen only cites historical references from Quran and Saheeh Ahaadith because these two are the only sources of Islamic law, history and all else related to Islam.

Jamaat-ul-Muslimeen strongly refutes and rejects the lies that are quoted from all such unverified sources by scholars, historians and Western researchers on Islam, which contradict the Quran and Hadeeth. We say that our Sahaba (Radi Allah u Anhum) were the best people who ever walked upon the face of this Earth. They were all on the right path; they never fought among themselves, as the distorted history would have us believe. This we say because our Lord Almighty Allah Subhana hu Wa Ta'alaa Himself testifies in the Quran:

Muhammad (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) is the Messenger of Allah, and those, who are with him, are SEVERE AGAINST THE DISBELIEVERS AND MERCIFUL AMONG THEMSELVES. You see them bowing and falling down prostrate in their Salat, seeking bounty from Allah and His pleasure. There are marks on their faces (foreheads) from the traces of their prostrations. This is their description in the Torah and in the Injeel (the Gospel / Bible), (their similitude is) like a sown seed which sends forth its shoot, then makes it strong. It then becomes thick, and it stands straight on its stem, delighting the sowers- that He may enrage the disbelievers with them. Allah has promised those among them who believe and do righteous deeds, forgiveness and a mighty reward.

(Surah Al Fath: ayat 29)

Who can dare challenge the Words of Allah and have the audacity to say that the Sahaba fought against one another in an evil power struggle while the Quran states in no uncertain terms that they were merciful among themselves? But there are such people and they are not few in number who challenge the Quran' s statement and even go on to say that the Sahaba and their successive generations killed the house hold of their own Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam), stopped them from drinking water and mercilessly killed even small children from among them to wipe out the entire offspring of one of the grandsons of Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam).

May Allah guide them to the right path!

We can only convey the word of Allah and His Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) to them and let them decide the course they wish to take, whether they want to believe in the Quran or they prefer to accept the distorted history books!

What ever is done in the name of mourning during the first ten days of the Islamic Calendar i.e. in the month of Muharram is without any proof and Jamaat ul Muslimeen stays well clear of such practices.

The historical aspects of this mourning aside, since Islam is a complete way of life, we have also been given guidelines regarding mourning

Narrated Abdullah Ibn Masood (Radi Allah u Anho):

The Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "Who-ever slaps the face or tears the bosom of the dress, or calls the calls of the Period of Ignorance (in mourning), is not from us."

(Saheeh Bukhari and Saheeh Muslim Kitab ul Iman)

Whatever is done every year in the name of mourning is clearly against the above words of Muhammad (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam). Not only do the mourners slap their faces and tear away their dresses they even use knives and spears to torture their bodies and all this is committed in the name of religion! Along with this the mourners use extremely derogatory language against some of the noble Caliphs and all this is done with utter disregard to the words of Allah and His Messenger (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam).

We are presenting herein a few selected ahaadith from the most authentic sources, which convey to us the wonderful characteristics of the noble Caliphs in particular and the Sahaba (Radi Allah u Anhum) in general:

Narrated Abu Said Al-Khudri (Radi Allah u Anho):

Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "A time will come upon the people, when a group of people will wage a holy war and it will be said, 'Is there amongst you anyone who has accompanied Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam)?' They will say, 'Yes.' And so victory will be bestowed on them. Then a time will come upon the people when a group of people will wage a holy war, and it will be said, "Is there amongst you anyone who has accompanied the companions of Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam)?' They will say, 'Yes.' And so victory will be bestowed on them. Then a time will come upon the people when a group of people will wage a holy war, and it will be said, "Is there amongst you anyone who has been in the company of the companions of the companions of Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam)?' They will say, 'Yes.' And victory will be bestowed on them."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 1)

Narrated Imran Ibn Hussain (Radi Allah u Anho):

Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said: "The best of my followers are those living in my generation (i.e. my contemporaries), and then those who will follow the latter". Imran (Radi Allah u Anho) added, "I do not remember whether he mentioned two or three generations after his generation," then the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) added, 'There will come after you, people who will bear witness without being asked to do so, and will be treacherous and untrustworthy, and they will vow and never fulfill their vows, and fatness will appear among them."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 2 and Saheeh Muslim)

Narrated Abu Huraira (Radi Allah u Anho):

The Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "The Israelis used to be ruled and guided by prophets (Alaihim us Salat u was Salaam): Whenever a prophet died, another would take over his place. There will be no prophet after me, but there will be Caliphs and they would be numerous." The people asked, "O Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam)! What do you order us (to do)?" He said, "Obey the one who will be given the pledge of allegiance first. Fulfill their (i.e. the Caliphs) rights, for Allah will ask them about (any shortcoming) in ruling those Allah has put under their guardianship."

(Saheeh Bukhari and Saheeh Muslim)

Narrated Abu Said (Radi Allah u Anho):

The Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "Do not abuse my companions for if any one of you spent gold equal to (the mountain of) Uhud (in Allah's Cause) it would not be equal to a Mudd (780 grams) or even a half Mudd (390 grams) spent by one of them."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 22 and Saheeh Muslim)

Narrated Abu Bakr Siddiq (Radi Allah u Anho):

I said to the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) while I was in the Cave. "If any of them should look under his feet, he would see us." He said, "O Abu Bakr! What do you think of two (persons) the third of whom is Allah?"

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 5)

Narrated Abu Said Al-Khudri (Radi Allah u Anho):

Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) addressed the people saying, "Allah has offered the choice to a slave to choose this world or what is with Him. The slave has chosen what is with Allah." Abu Bakr (Radi Allah u Anho) wept, and we were astonished at his weeping caused by what the Prophet mentioned as to a Slave (of Allah) who had been offered a choice, (we learned later on) that Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) himself was the person who was given the choice, and that Abu Bakr (Radi Allah u Anho) knew best of all of us. Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) added, "The person who has favored me most of all both with his company and wealth, is Abu Bakr. If I were to take a Khalil other than my Lord, I would have taken Abu Bakr as such, but (what relates us) is the Islamic brotherhood and friendliness. All the gates of the Masjid (un Nabawi) should be closed except the gate of Abu Bakr."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 6)

Narrated Abdullah Ibn 'Umar (Radi Allah u Anho):

We used to compare the people as to who was better during the lifetime of Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam). We used to regard Abu Bakr as the best, then Umar, and then Usman.

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 7)

Narrated Jubair Ibn Mutim (Radi Allah u Anho):

A woman came to the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam). He ordered her to return to him again. She said, "What if I came and did not find you?" as if she wanted to say, "If I found you dead?" The Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "If you should not find me, go to Abu Bakr."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 11)

Narrated Abu Ad-Darda (Radi Allah u Anho):

The Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "Allah sent me (as a Prophet) to you (people) but you said (to me), 'You are telling a lie,' while Abu Bakr said, 'He has said the truth,' and consoled me with himself and his money." He then said twice, "Won't you then give up harming my companion?" After that nobody ever harmed Abu Bakr (Radi Allah u Anho).

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 13)

Narrated Abu Huraira (Radi Allah u Anho):

Once Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) offered the morning Salat and then faced the people and said, "While a man was driving a cow, he suddenly rode over it and beat it. The cow said, "We have not been created for this, but we have been created for sloughing." On that the people said astonishingly, "Subhan Allah! A cow speaks!" Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "I believe this, and Abu Bakr and Umar too, believe it, although neither of them was present there. While a person was amongst his sheep, a wolf attacked and took one of the sheep. The man chased the wolf till he saved it from the wolf, where upon the wolf said, 'you have saved it from me; but who will guard it on the day of the wild beasts when there will be no shepherd to guard them except me (because of riots and afflictions)? ' The people said surprisingly, "Subhan Allah! A wolf speaks!" Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "But I believe this, and Abu Bakr and Umar too, believe this, although neither of them was present there."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 4 Hadeeth Number 677)

Narrated Muhammad Ibn Al-Hanafiya (Rahmatullah Alaihi):

I asked my father (Ali Ibn Abi Talib Radi Allah u Anho), "Who are the best people after Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam)?" He said, "Abu Bakr." I asked, "Who then?" He said, "Then 'Umar. " I was afraid he would say "Usman, so I said, "Then you?" He said, "I am only an ordinary person from among the Muslimeen."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 20)

Narrated Hudhaifa (Radi Allah u Anho):

Once Umar Ibn Al-Khattab (Radi Allah u Anho) said, "Who amongst you remembers the statement of Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) regarding the afflictions?" Hudhaifa replied, "I remember what he said exactly." Umar (Radi Allah u Anho) said. "Tell (us), you are really a daring man!'' Hudhaifa said, Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, 'A man's afflictions (i.e. wrong deeds) concerning his relation to his family, his property and his neighbors are expiated by his Salat, giving in charity and enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil.' " Umar (Radi Allah u Anho) said, "I don't mean these afflictions but the afflictions that will be heaving up and down like waves of the sea." Hudhaifa replied, "O Ameer ul Mumineen! You need not fear those (afflictions) as there is a closed door between you and them." Umar (Radi Allah u Anho) asked, "Will that door be opened or broken?" Hudhaifa replied, "No, it will be broken." Umar (Radi Allah u Anho) said, "Then it is very likely that the door will not be closed again." Later on the people asked Hudhaifa, "Did Umar (Radi Allah u Anho) know what that door meant?" He said. "Yes, Umar (Radi Allah u Anho) knew it as everyone knows that there will be night before the morning. I narrated to Umar (Radi Allah u Anho) an authentic narration, not lies." We dared not ask Hudhaifa (Radi Allah u Anho); therefore we requested Masruq who asked him, "What does the door stand for?" He said, "(The door stands for) Umar (Radi Allah u Anho)."

(Saheeh Bukhari and Saheeh Muslim)

Narrated Abdullah Ibn Abbas (Radi Allah u Anhuma):

While I was standing amongst the people who were invoking Allah for Umar Ibn Al-Khattab who was lying (dead) on his bed, a man behind me rested his elbows on my shoulder and said, "(O Umar!) May Allah bestow His Mercy on you. I always hoped that Allah will keep you with your two companions, for I often heard Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) saying, "I, Abu Bakr and 'Umar were (somewhere). I, Abu Bakr and Umar did (something). I, Abu Bakr and Umar set out." So I hoped that Allah will keep you with both of them." I turned back to see that the speaker was Ali Ibn Abi Talib (Radi Allah u Anho).

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 26)

Narrated Sahl Ibn Saad (Radi Allah u Anho):

Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "Tomorrow I will give the flag to a man with whose leadership Allah will grant (the Muslims) victory (at Khaibar)." So the people kept on thinking the whole night as to who would be given the flag. The next morning the people went to Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) and every one of them hoped that he would be given the flag. Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "Where is Ali Ibn Abi Talib?" The people replied, "He is suffering from eye trouble, O Allah's Messenger." He said, "Send for him and bring him to me." So when Ali came, the Prophet spat in his eyes and invoked good on him, and he became alright as if he had no ailment. The Prophet then gave him the flag. Ali said, "O Allah's Apostle! Shall I fight them (i.e. enemy) till they become like us?" Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "Proceed to them steadily till you approach near to them and then invite them to Islam and inform them of their duties towards Allah which Islam prescribes for them, for by Allah, if one man is guided on the right path (i.e. converted to Islam) through you, it would be better for you than (a great number of) red camels."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 51 and Saheeh Muslim)

Narrated Abu Hazim:

A man came to Sahl Ibn Saad (Radi Allah u Anho) and said, "This is so-and-so," meaning the Governor of Medina, "He is calling Ali (Radi Allah u Anho) bad names near the pulpit." Sahl asked, "What is he saying?" He replied, "He calls him (i.e. Ali) Abu Turab." Sahl laughed and said, "By Allah, none but the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) called him by this name and no name was dearer to Ali than this." So I asked Sahl to tell me more, saying, "O Abu Abbas! How (was this name given to Ali)?" Sahl said, "'Ali went to Fatima (Radi Allah u Anha) and then came out and slept in the Masjid. The Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) asked Fatima, "Where is your cousin?" She said, "In the Masjid." The Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) went to him and found that his (i.e. Ali's) covering sheet had slipped of his back and dust had soiled his back. The Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) started wiping the dust off his back and said twice, "Get up! O Abu Turab (i.e. O. man with the dust)."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 53)

Narrated 'Ali (Radi Allah u Anho):

Fatima complained of the suffering caused to her by the hand mill. Some captives were brought to the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam). She came to him but did not find him at home. Aisha (Radi Allah u Anha) was present there to whom she told (of her desire for a servant). When the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) came, Aisha (Radi Allah u Anha) informed him about Fatima's (Radi Allah u Anha) visit. Ali (Radi Allah u Anho) added "So the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) came to us, while we had gone to our bed I wanted to get up but the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "Remain at your place". Then he sat down between us till I found the coolness of his feet on my chest. Then he said, "Shall I teach you a thing which is better than what you have asked me? When you go to bed, say, 'Allahu-Akbar' thirty-four times, and 'Subhan Allah thirty-three times, and 'Alhamdu-lillah thirty-three times for that is better for you both than a servant."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 55)

Narrated Ubaida:

Ali (Radi Allah u Anho) said (to the people of 'Iraq), "Judge as you used to judge, for I hate differences (and I do my best) till the people unite as one group, or I die as my companions have died." And narrated Saad that the Prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said to Ali (Radi Allah u Anho), "Will you not be pleased from this that you are to me like Haroon was to Musa? But there will not be any prophet after me".

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 56)

Narrated Al-Miswar Ibn Makhrama (Radi Allah u Anho):

Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) said, "Fatima is a part of me, and he who makes her angry, makes me angry."

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 5 Book 57 Hadeeth Number 61)

Narrated Uqba Ibn Al-Haris (Radi Allah u Anho):

(Once) Abu Bakr (Radi Allah u Anho) offered the Asr Salat and then went out walking and saw Hassan (Radi Allah u Anho) playing with the boys. He lifted him on to his shoulders and said, "Let my parents be sacrificed for your sake! (You) resemble Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) and not (your father) Ali," while Ali (Radi Allah u Anho) was smiling.

(Saheeh Bukhari Volume 4, Book 56, Hadeeth Number 742)

These are just a few narrations from among hundreds of authentic ahaadith and these need no elaboration. The above quoted ahaadith prove without a doubt the integrity, moral greatness, unity, love for one another and exceptional faith of all the Sahaba (May Allah be pleased with all of them).

Despite all this there are people who disrespect these great people and specifically two Caliphs are targeted by them, this is because these people believe more in the distorted history books as compared to the words of Allah Subhana hu Wa Ta'alaa and His prophet (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam). These are the Sixth Caliph Muawiyah Ibn Abi Sufyaan (Radi Allah u Anhuma) and his son and successor Yazeed Ibn Muawiyah (Rahmatullah Alaihi). Such derogatory remarks are used against these two noble Caliphs that any decent man would not utter even for enemies.

Both these Caliphs were given glad tidings by Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) as is evident from the following hadeeth:

It has been reported on the authority of Anas Ibn Malik (Radi Allah u Anho) that Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) used to visit Umm Haram daughter of Milhan (Radi Allah u Anha, who was the sister of his foster-mother or his father's aunt). She was the wife of Ubada Ibn Samit (Radi Allah u Anho). One day Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) paid her a visit. She entertained him with food and then sat down to rub his head. Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam) dozed off and when he woke up (after a while), he was smiling. She asked: What made you smile O Messenger of Allah? He said: Some people from my Ummah were presented to me who were fighters in the way of Allah and were sailing in this sea. (Gliding smoothly on the water), they appeared to be kings or like kings (sitting) on thrones. 

This will be the first naval expedition of my Ummah and they all have been promised paradise. She said: Messenger of Allah!  Pray to Allah that He may include me among these warriors. He prayed for her. Then he placed his head (down) and dozed off (again). He woke up smiling, as before. (She said): O Messenger of Allah! What makes you smile? He replied: A people from my Ummah were presented to me. They were fighters in Allah's way, they appeared like kings (sitting) on thrones, this will be the first expedition from my Ummah to invade the city of Qaiser, (Constantinople) and all of them have been forgiven. She said: Messenger of Allah! Pray to Allah that He may include me among these warriors. He said: You are among the first ones.

Umm Haram daughter of Milhan (Radi Allah u Anha) sailed in the sea in the time of Muawiyah (Radi Allah u Anho). When she came out of the sea and (was going to mount a riding animal) she fell down and died.

(Saheeh Bukhari Kitab ul Jihad Book 022, Chapter 62 and 75 & Saheeh Muslim Kitab ul Imarah Book 020, Chapter 49 Hadeeth Number 4699)

The first expedition was undertaken with Muawiyah Ibn Abi Sufyaan (Radi Allah u Anhuma) as its supreme commander. The second expedition, which invaded Constantinople, was led by Yazeed Ibn Muawiyah (Rahmatullah Alaihi).

(Saheeh Bukhari Kitab us Salat)

What more do we need to prove that both these noble Caliphs were given the glad tidings of going to paradise and being forgiven! Yet if people doubt their faith and integrity then we can only ask Allah to guide such people to the right path.

Such people who take refuge in the lies concocted by Abu Mikhnaf Lut Ibn Yahya in his "Maqtal e Hussein" and tarnish the images of these great Sahaba (Radi Allah u Anhum) and  their off spring are rebelling against the words of Rasoolullah (Sall Allah u Alaihi wa Sallam). Moreover, they are doing no service to Islam but are only saying to the West that Islam's history was much like the European dark ages when in fact it was not!

For authentic and 100% verified Islamic History please go through "Saheeh Tareekh ul Islam wal Muslimeen" by Syed Masood Ahmad (Rahmatullah Alaihi) based on the Holy Quran, Saheeh Bukhari and Saheeh Muslim.

For the actual reality behind the Karbala Tragedy please read "Waqia e Karbala aur Afsana e Karbala" by the same author.

A few other thought proving research works by the same author which have uncovered the lies invented by the enemies of Islam namely Saif Ibn Umar, Hisham Ibn Muhammad Kalbi and Abu Mikhnaf Lut Ibn Yahya include:

1.Waqia e Saqeefa aur Afsana e Saqeefa

2. Waqia e Jamal  aur Afsana e Jamal

3. Waqia e Siffeen aur Afsana e Siffeen

4. Waqia e Harra aur Afsana e Harra

Read More

Basic of Islam

Worship of Allah is foremost in a Muslim’s mind all the time. There are also five formal acts of worship which help strengthen a Muslim’s faith and obedience. They are often called the “Five Pillars of Islam.”

Testimony of Faith (Kalima)- 1.

This is simply the declaration, “I bear witness that there is no deity but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger.” As mentioned previously, all of Islam is based on faith in the Unity of God. When one declares this statement, one testifies to the Unity of Allah, and to the message of the Prophethood. When one bears witness that Muhammad is His messenger, one is confirming that all of the prophets before him were also His messengers – Allah is One and His message is one (that is Al-Quran). A person becomes a Muslim when he or she declares this statement with purity of heart and conviction of faith.

Prayer (Salat)- 2.

Formal prayer is the most important act of worship; it is mankind’s connection to Allah through which one gathers strength, guidance and peace of mind.  Islam prescribes five formal prayers daily, through which Muslims repeat and refresh their beliefs, taking time out of their busy day to remember Allah and renew the effort to follow His guidance. Five times each day (before dawn, noon, afternoon, after sunset, and evening) Muslims rise, cleanse with water, and present themselves directly before Allah for prayer.

Far from being a ritualistic and mindless activity, prayer constantly reminds us of the purpose of life itself, refreshes our faith, and keeps our belief in Allah alive and ever-present. We go back to our wordly affairs conscious of our duties and strengthened against sin. Prayers said in congregation bond Muslims together in love and brotherhood. Prayer also symbolizes the equality of believers; there is no hierarchy, and all stand side-by-side in rows and bow only to Allah.

Aside from the five formal prayers each day, Muslims begin and complete every activity with Allah ever-present in their minds. The words “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah) precede every action, and “Alhamdilillah” (Thanks be to Allah) completes it. Muslims also make private supplications, and words in praise of Allah fall constantly off one’s lips.

Fasting (Sawm)- 3.

“O you who believe!  Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may learn self-restraint.  Fast for a fixed number of days….Ramadan is the month in which was sent down the Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, and clear signs for guidance and judgment between right and wrong. So every one of you who is present at home during that month should spend it in fasting….Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put you to difficulties. He wants you to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance you shall be grateful” (Qur’an 2:183-185).

What the prayers seek to do five times a day, fasting in the month of Ramadan (9th month of the lunar year) does once a year. During this month, Muslims do not eat anything nor drink even a drop of water during the daylight hours.  Each and every moment during the fast, we suppress our desires and remember Allah alone.This places in us a consciousness of duty and a spirit of patience that helps strengthen faith in Allah.Discipline and hardship during this month bring us face to face with the realities of life and the suffering of so many throughout the year.  The whole month is filled with increased devotion, piety, and purity of mind, soul and body.

Almsgiving (Zakat)- 4.

Every Muslim whose financial conditions are above a certain specified minimum, must pay annually at least 2.5% of his savings to a deserving needy person, a new convert to Islam, a traveler, or one overwhelmed by debts.This fosters in a Muslim the quality of sacrifice and rids one of selfishness, greed and vanity. As all wealth is a gift from Allah, one has the duty to help his needy brethren when he is able.

Pilgrimage (Hajj)- 5.

Once in a lifetime, a Muslim who is financially and physically able must go on the pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, during the month of Hajj (12th month of the lunar year).  Mecca is the spiritual center of the Muslim world. It was here that Abraham built the first house of worship (the Kaaba), towards which all Muslims stand in unity in their daily prayers.

“The first House of worship appointed for men was that at Bakka (Mecca),
full of blessing and of guidance for all the worlds. It it are Signs manifest -
the Station of Abraham – whoever enters it attains security.  Pilgrimage there to is a
duty men owe to Allah, for those who can afford the journey…”
(Qur’an, Ali Imran:96-97).

When this house was desecrated into a center of pagan worship, it was the prophet Muhammad that cleansed it of its 300+ idols and rededicated it to the worship of Allah alone.

All pilgrims dress in pure white cloth, and are required to suppress passion, refrain from any bloodshed, and be pure in word and deed.

“For Hajj are the months well-known.If any one undertakes the journey therein, let there be no obscenity,nor wickedness, nor wrangling in the Hajj.Andwhatever
good you do, be sure Allah knows it. And take aprovision with you for the
journey, but the best of provisions is right conduct…”
(Qur’an, Al-Baqarah:197).

The pilgrimage is a great international conference, wherein all people, kings or peasants, black or white, stand before Allah as equals.During the ten days of the annual pilgrimage, several million Muslims from all over the world, of all nations, languages, and colors come together in the largest spiritual gathering of the world.

The teachings of Islam indicate a balance between the life of this world and the life of the next.  While often seen as a radical or extreme religion, Muslims consider it the middle road.

“Thus have We made of you a community justly balanced…”
(Qur’an, Al-Baqarah:143).

Muslims do not live this life selfishly, with complete disregard for God. Nor do they neglect the world to devote themselves solely to worship.Muslims strike a balance by fulfilling the obligations of and enjoying this life, always mindful of their duties to Allah and to others.Extremity in either direction is frowned upon.

God-fearing people should be the best in morals andmanners.Islam forbids any action which infringes on the rights of others or harms oneself.Forbidden to Muslims are:  dishonesty, theft, murder, suicide, bribery, forgery, interest and usury, gambling, lottery, consumption of alcohol or pork, backbiting, gossiping, slandering, hoarding, destruction of property, cruelty to animals, adultery, fornication, etc.

While forbidding these things, Islam enjoins upon mankind the use of all clean, healthy and useful things, and asks us not to deprive our bodies of clean food and healthy recreation.  Islam also encourages marriage and stable family life, modesty, generosity, hospitality, respect for parents, honorable treatment of women, helping those in need, etc.

The law of Islam forbids public nudity and orders Muslims to use decent and dignified dress.  Muslims are called upon to practice moderation in this area as well.   One of Muhammad’s companions once said, “Eat what you wish and wear what you wish if you can avoid two things: extravagance and conceit.”  In dress and behavior, Muslims are to be modest.

“Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty;
that will make for greater purity for them; and Allah is Well-Acquainted with
all that they do. And say to the believing womenthat they should lower their 
gaze and guard their modesty; that they should no display their beauty and
ornaments…” (Qur’an, An-Nur:30-31).

According to the Prophet’s tradition, no man should expose his body from the navel to the knees, nor should a woman expose any part of her body except her face and hands while in public.  This is called “covering” and to keep these parts covered is the religious duty of every man and woman.Through this directive, Islam cultivates in its followers a deep sense of modesty, purity and respect.

Islam enjoins mankind to control and regulate sexual desires and seek its fulfillment only within the bonds of marriage.  Marriage is a solemn contract, and the basis of a stable family and society.  The Qur’an describes husband and wife as comforts for and protectors of one another.Divorce, while frowned upon, is permitted in cases where the marriage is irrevocably damaged.

Throughout our lives, we must always be respectful of ourparents.They suffer and make sacrifices for us throughout our lives. Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said that “Heaven lies under the feet of mothers,” so high are they in respect and admiration.  Our duties to our parents come second only to our duties to Allah, and the majority of Muslim families have close extended family ties.

“Your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him, and that you be kind 
to parents. Whether one orboth of them attain old age in your life, say not to them
a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address themin terms of honor. And,
out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say, My Lord! Bestow on
them Your Mercy, even as they cherished me in childhood.”
(Qur’an, Al-Israa:23-24).

There is no place in a Muslim’s heart for racial, national, gender, or other prejudices.  There is One Creator, and we are all His creation.The diversity of human life is one of the Signs of Allah, part of the beauty of His creation, and something to be admired and respected.

 “And among His Signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the variations 
in your languages and your colors; verily in that are Signs for those who know”
(Qur’an, Ar-Rum:22).

Righteousness is the only distinguishing factor among people.

“O mankind!  We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into
nations and tribes sothat you may know one another.Verily, the most honored among
you in the sight of Allah is the one whois the most righteous.Indeed, Allah is 
All-Knowing, All-Aware” (Qur’an, Al-Hujurat:13).

In dealing with non-Muslims, the believers are instructed not to be intolerant or narrow-minded.  We must not abuse or speak ill of other religious leaders, nor say anything insulting.

“Invite all to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and
argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious. For thy Lord knows best
who have strayed from His path, and who receive guidance”
(Qur’an, An-Nahl:125).

We must not seek dissention unnecessarily, but live in peace and amity.Nor can a Muslim pass judgment on whether someone will be to Heaven or Hell – only Allah is the Judge.

“Those who believe in the Qur’an, and those who follow the Jewish scripture, and
the Christians and the Sabians – any who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and
work righteousness – shall have their reward with their Lord. One them shall be
no fear, nor shall they grieve” (Qur’an, Al-Baqarah:62).

There is a special place in a Muslim’s heart for Christians and Jews, whom the Qur’an calls “People of the Book,” meaning people who have received previous scriptures.  Muslims are encouraged to seek good relations especially with them, as they have more in common to us than that with the pagans or atheists.

“…nearest among them in live to the believers will you find those who say, We are Christians,’ because among them are men devoted to learning, and men who
have renounced the world, and they are not
arrogant” (Qur’an, Al-Maidah:82).

When arguments or debates arise, Muslims are to treat them with kindness, try to find common ground, and if differences persist, to simply say, “Well, to you be your way, and to me mine.”

Muslims are absolutely forbidden from forcing their faith on others; this negates the very idea of free will and choice.  The Qur’an says,

“There is no compulsion in religion…” (Qur’an, Al-Baqarah:256).

It is up to each individual to investigate religion, and personally make a decision as to its validity and their faith in it.  Muslims are not in a position to force anything on anyone – the job of guidance belongs to Allah alone.

“If it had been your Lord’s Will, they would all have believed, all who are on
earth! Will you then compel mankind, against their will, to believe?! No soul
can believe, except by the Will of Allah”.
(Qur’an, Al-Yunus:99). 

Faith in the Unity of God

As mentioned previously, Muslims believe in the absolute unity of God (Allah). The essence of Islam is expressed in the phrase “La ilaha illa Allah” meaning “There is no deity but Allah”.

“And your God is One God; there is no god but He, Most Gracious, Most Merciful” 
(Qur’an, Al-Baqarah:163).

This statement of faith distinguishes a Muslim from an unbeliever, a polytheist (the believe of more than one God), or an atheist (the belief that God does not exist). A Muslim is one who grasps the full meaning of this phrase, realizes its significance, reposes true belief in it, and accepts and follows it in action and spirit. Belief in the Unity of God means that there is no being worthy of worship except Him, that it is only to Him that heads should bow in submission and adoration, that He alone possesses all powers, that all are in need of His favour, and that all must seek His help and mercy. This belief is the bedrock of Islam; all other beliefs, commands, and laws of Islam stand firm on this foundation.

Faith in Allah’s Angels

Angels are also Allah’s creatures, spiritual beings that are under His command. They administer Allah’s kingdom, carrying out His orders obediently. They have no free-will or ability to disobey; it is their very nature to be Allah’s faithful servants. These angels surround us, and their duties include recording man’s deeds in this life, which will be presented on the Day of Judgement. 

Faith in Allah’s Prophets

Allah is transcendent and beyond all physical limitations of man, so through the medium of an angel, Allah causes His command to be revealed to His human messengers and thus to mankind. The purpose of our life on this earth is to worship Allah and obey His commands. Through His Grace and Benevolence, Allah sent prophets and messengers to every nation, in order to communicate with and guide mankind to the right path.

The prophets who were sent to mankind include (among others) Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Ishmael, Moses, David, Jesus, and finally, Muhammad (peace be upon all of Allah’s prophets). These (and many other) chosen men all came with the same message:  Islam. That is, they taught of faith in One Almighty God, faith in the Day of Judgment, faith in the Prophets and the Books, and asked people consequently to live a life of obedience and submission to their Lord. This is the definition of a Muslim.

“Abraham was not a Jew nor yet a Christian; but he was upright, and bowed his
will to Allah’s (which is Islam).And he joined not gods with Allah”
(Qur’an, Ali Imran:67).

Some of these prophets brought revealed books (see below). They were all men guided by Allah to teach mankind and guide them on the straight path. Muslims believe in them all and make no distinction between them.

“Say:’We believe in Allah, and in what has been revealed to us and what was 
revealed toAbraham, Ishmael,Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and in the Books 
given to Moses, Jesus, and the Prophets, from their Lord; wemake no distinction
between one and another among them, and to Allah do we bow our will in
Islam” (Qur’an, Ali Imran:84).

Muslims believe that the final prophet, Muhammad, came to invite people back to the true teachings of the previous prophets, and to bring to mankind a final and all-encompassing guidance: the Qur’an. The Qur’an remains in its complete and unadulterated form; there is therefore no need for any more prophets to come.   Allah’s message is complete.

Faith in Allah’s Revealed Books

Muslims believe in books that Allah has sent down to mankind through His prophets. These books include the Books of Abraham, the Torah of Moses, the Psalms of David, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. These books all had the same source (Allah), the same message, and all were revealed in truth.This does not mean that they have been preserved in truth.Muslims (and many other Jewish and Christian scholars and historians) find that the books in existence today are not the original scriptures, which in fact have been lost, changed, and/or translated over and over again, losing the original message.

“They change the words from their right places and forget a good part of the
Message that was sent them…” (Qur’an, Al- Maidah:13).

Reading these books today, we have no way of knowing what portion was revealed by Allah, and what was recorded and changed by man.

Muslims believe that Allah sent a final revelation, the Qur’an, through the final Prophet of Allah, Muhammad (peace be upon him and all of Allah’s messengers).

“None of Our revelations do We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, but We
substitute something better or similar…” (Qur’an, Al-Baqarah:106).

The sending of this divine Book is not a new and strange event; but only to confirm, restate, and complete those divine instructions which people had mutilated or lost in antiquity.

“To thee (Muhammad) We sent the Scripture in truth, confirming the scripture that
came before it,and guarding it in safety…” (Qur’an, Al-Maidah:48).

The Qur’an is addressed to all of humanity. It seeks to guide mankind in all walks of life; spiritual, temporal, individual and collective. It contains directions for the conduct of life, relates stories and parables, describes the attributes of Allah, and speaks of the best rules to govern social life. It has directions for everybody, every place, and for all time. The Qur’an was revealed and preserved in the Arabic language. While translations into other languages may differ in word choice, the original Arabic script has been uncorrupted and unchanged since its revelation in the 7th century.

Belief in qadar (We believe everything in this world happens by the will of Allaah, whether it is good or bad)

The true Muslim believes in the timeless knowledge of God and in His power to plan and execute His plans. God is not indifferent to this world nor is He neutral to it. His knowledge and power are in action at all times to keep order in His vast domain and maintain full command over His creation. He is Wise and Loving, and whatever He does must have a good motive and meaningful purpose. If this is established in our minds, we should accept with good Faith all that He does, although we may fail to understand it fully, or even think it is bad. We should have strong Faith in Him and accept whatever He does because our knowledge is limited and our thinking is based on individual or personal considerations, whereas His knowledge is limitless and He plans on a universal basis.

Belief in the Last Day and resurrection after death

Muslims believe that this world will come to an end on a day Allah has appointed.

“Every soul shall have a taste of death; and only on the Day of Judgment shall you
be paid your full recompense…” (Qur’an, Ali Imran:185).

Everything will be demolished, and all of the human beings who had lived in this world will then be restored to life and will be presented before Allah.

The entire record of every man and woman – of all their deeds and misdeeds – will be presented before Allah for final judgment.

One who excels in goodness will, by the Mercy of Allah, receive a goodly reward; one whose wrongs overweigh his good deeds will be punished.

It is neither faith nor just to treat everyone equally.

“Is then the man who believes no better than the man who is rebellious and wicked? 
Not equal are they” (Qur’an, As-Sajda:18).

Allah on that day will judge with Justice, and every soul will receive what it has earned. While unsure of their fate in the Hereafter, Muslims are confident of the Mercy and Justice of Allah.

“Say: ‘Oh My servants who have transgressed against their own souls! 
Despair not of the Mercy of Allah, for Allah forgives all sins, for He is Oft-Forgiving,
Most Merciful.” (Qur’an, Az-Zumar:53).

Those who emerge successfully from Judgment will go to eternal Paradise; those who are condemned and deserve punishment will be sent to Hell. Allah is the perfect and fair Judge.

In Islam, faith and good works go hand-in-hand. A mere verbal declaration of faith is not enough, for belief in Allah makes obedience to Him a duty. Only when your practice is consistent with your profession will you be a true Muslim. Faith in Allah will be your strength, and the Qur’an your guide.

The Muslim concept of worship is very broad.  Muslims consider everything they do in this life according to Allah’s will, an act of worship. Speaking the truth, refraining from gossip, dealing honestly in commercial affairs, treating one’s parents with respect and honor, helping the poor and needy, dealing lovingly and fairly with family members – whatever is done for the sake of Allah is called FIve Pillars of Islam.

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