178. If Wudhu Water Falls In Another Bucket Does That Water Becomes Impure?

By Asma Bint Shameem

If some wudhu water falls in another bucket, that does not make that water impure. 

Rather, you can still use that water.

Proof

Aa’ishah, Umm Salamah and Maymoonah, the Mothers of the Believers, radhi Allaahu anhun all reported that they used to take ghusl with the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam for Janaabah from the same vessel. 

Aaishah radhi Allaahu anhaa said:

“The Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam 

and I used to do ghusl from one vessel placed between me and him. 

He would hasten until I would say, ‘Leave some for me, leave some for me.’”(Muslim, 321) 

And Allaah knows best

177. The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam, The Jews And The Fasting Of Aashooraa

By Asma bint Shameem 

QUESTION

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said he wanted to fast the ninth of Muharram to be different from the Jews, but he passed away before that. 

Did he not know about that although he lived in Madeenah for TEN years before he passed away?

ANSWER

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam used to fast Aashooraa, when he was in Makkah, YEARS BEFORE he arrived in Madeenah. 

Initially, it was OBLIGATORY to fast the day of Aashooraa and that’s what the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam and the Sahaabah did until the fasting of Ramadhaan was made obligatory and then the fast of Aashooraa became optional and recommended. 

 Aaisha radhi Allaahu anhaa said:

“The Quraysh used to fast on Aashooraaa during the Jaahiliyyah, and the Messenger of Allaah  Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam 

used to fast on (that day) too. When he migrated to Madeenah, he fasted this day and ordered that this fast be observed. When the month of Ramadhaan was enjoined, he said: 

“Whoever wishes may fast on (this day) and whoever wishes may forsake it.” (al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

When the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam initially came to Madeenah, he saw that the Jews were ALSO fasting Aashooraa, JUST LIKE HE HAD BEEN doing for years, so he instructed the Sahaabah to do the same because the Muslims have more right to Musa Alayhi-salaam.

Ibn ‘Abbaas radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

“The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam came to Madeenah and saw the Jews fasting on the day of Aashooraa. 

He said: “What is this?” (meaning: “why are YOU fasting”) 

They said: This is a good day; it is the day on which Allaah saved the Children of Israel from their enemy, so Moosaa fasted on this day. 

He said: “We have more right to Moosaa than you.” 

So he fasted on this day and issued instructions that a fast was to be observed on this day.”(al-Bukhaari)

He Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said this “INITIALLY” when he FIRST came to Madeenah. 

Ibn al-Qayyim said regarding the above hadeeth:

 “It was when he FIRST came to Madeenah.” 

(Zaad al-Ma‘aad (2/67)

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam did not “BEGIN” fasting Aashooraa, after seeing the Jews do it because he had ALREADY been fasting in Makkah all these years. 

When the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam initially migrated to Madeenah, this was the time when he did not mind doing things SIMILAR to the People of the Book unless he received prohibition about it from Allaah. 

So he CONTINUED his practice of fasting Aahooraa. 

Al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar said: 

“Whatever the case, he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam did not fast it in *”emulation”* of them – i.e., the Jews – because he used to fast it before that, and that was at the time when the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam liked to do the *same* as the people of the Book in matters that he had not been forbidden to do so.” 

(Fath al-Baari, 4/248)

Ibn al-Qayyim said:

“In the beginning, he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam LIKED to do the SAME as the People of the Book in matters concerning which he had received no divine instructions.” 

(Zaad al-Ma‘aad)

However, towards the END of his life, he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said that he wanted to fast the ninth as well because NOW he wanted to be DIFFERENT from the Jews. 

So he said:

“Next year, if Allaah wills, we will fast on the ninth day too.” 

But before the next year came, the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam passed away.” (Muslim)

Ibn Taymiyah said regarding this issue:

“Then when it was said to him, shortly before he died, that it was a day that was venerated by the Jews and the Christians, he gave instructions to DIFFER from them by adding another day to it, and he resolved to do that.”

(Iqtida’ as-Siraat al-Mustaqeem (1/87)

Conclusion

This shows that the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam had been fasting Aashooraa for years even before he came to Madeenah.

Then when he came to Madeenah, he found out that the Jews ALSO fasted Aashooraa. 

But he didn’t mind fasting the same day as them, because initially he *liked* to do the same as the People of the Book, if it was a good deed and to be different from the polytheists. 

But towards the end of his life, he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam wanted to be DIFFERENT from the Jews so he said he would fast the ninth the next year but he passed away before he could do that. 

And Allaah knows best.

176. Looking For A Healing? Try Hijaamah

By Asma bint Shameem 

Are you sick? 

Have you been suffering from an ailment or disease? 

Or maybe you’re just exhausted and tired?

Well, there’s a way out of all that Bi idhnillaah. 

And that’s through Hijaamah or Cupping. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“The BEST treatment you can use is Hijaamah (cupping).” (al-Bukhaari) 

And he said:

“Healing is to be found in three things: drinking honey, the knife of the cupper, and cauterization of fire.” (al-Bukhaari)

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam himself got Hijaamah done on himself and so did the Sahaabah. 

*Hijaamah is so good even the Angels recommend it!*

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“I did not pass by any group of angels on the night of the Isra’ [the Prophet’s night journey when he was taken from Makkah to Jerusalem and back in the course of a single night], but all of them said to me, “You should use cupping, O Muhammad.” 

(Ahmad - saheeh by al-Albaani)

*So what is Hijaamah exactly?*

Hijaamah is also called wet cupping. It’s where a trained individual makes very tiny superficial (virtually painless) “cuts” on certain parts of the body, using a sharp blade and then applies special suction cups over the area and some of the blood oozes into the cups. 

Hijaamah is non-invasive, quick and easy and least painful, yet very effective to cure a lot of ailments from acne to arthritis to heart disease to fatigue with the permission of Allaah Alhamdulillaah

AND it’s the recommendation of our beloved Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

*Any specific days?*

Do keep in mind that there are NO authentic reports from the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam specifying a certain day of the month for getting hijaamah done. 

According to the majority of the scholars, the ahaadeeth about specific days or dates on which hijaamah is to be done are NOT AUTHENTIC. 

So you can get hijaamah done ANY time of the month especially if it’s needed. 

Imam Maalik was asked about cupping on Saturdays and Wednesdays, and he said:

“There is nothing wrong with that; there is no day on which I have not had cupping done, and I do not regard any of that as makrooh.”

[Al-Muntaqa Sharh al-Muwatta’ (7/225)]

The scholars said:

“Most of the leading scholars have stated that all the hadiths in these two categories (about hijaamah) are da‘eef and not one of them is soundly narrated from the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam.” (Islamqa Fatwa # 128170)

So now that you know about the benefits of Hijaamah, what are you waiting for? 

Find a good Hijaamah expert near you and seek healing through this blessed cure with the permission of your Rabb.

And Allaah knows best

175. Fasting The Ninth, Tenth AND Eleventh Of Al-Muharram

By Asma bint Shameem 

Al-Hafidh Ibn Hajar said:

“…Fasting Aashooraa comes under three categories;

*the lowest is to fast it alone*,

*better than it, is to fast the ninth day with it, and*

*the BEST is to fast the ninth AND the eleventh days with it”*

[Fath Al-Bari by Ibn Hajar (4/246)]

In other words, it’s BEST if we fast the *ninth, tenth and eleventh* of al-Muharram. 

We all know that fasting on the Day of Aashooraa (meaning the tenth of Muharram) and the day before it, is recommended. 

Ibn `Abbaas radhi Allaahu anhumaa said: 

“When the Messenger of Allah observed fast on the day of Aashooraa, and ordered Muslims to fast on it, they said to him: “O Messenger of Allaah! This is a day which both the Jews and the Christians venerate. Upon this, the Messenger of Allaah  said, “When it is the next year, In Shaa’ Allaah, we would observe fast on the ninth day (of Al-Muharram besides that day)”. But, it was not until the next year that the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam had died” 

(Saheeh Muslim 2666)

However, there are reasons why the ulama say it’s recommended to fast the eleventh as well. 

1. There’s a statement of Ibn Abbaas radhi Allaahu anhumaa that recommends fasting on the eleventh as well. 

Ibn Abbaas radhi Allaahu anhumaa said:

“Fast the day of Aashooraa, be different from Jews, fast one day before it or one day after it”

(At-Tabari in “Tahdheeb Al-Athar” (Musnad `Umar/1430); authentic by Al-Albaani as “Mawqoof”)

“Mawqoof” is a tradition attributed to a Companion.

And we all know that it’s ALL the Sahaabah are trustworthy and they would not say anything about the Deen that’s of their own thoughts.

They would only say that which was proven or approved by the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

2. Also another reason to fast on the eleventh is to make sure that you have fasted on the tenth. 

That’s because sometimes there’s a mistake in the sighting of the moon.

So by fasting on the ninth, the tenth AND the eleventh, we can be SURE that we’ve fasted the day of Aashooraa. 

3. In any case, it’s good to fast as many days in Muharram as possible. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“The best fast after Ramadhaan is the month of Allaah, al-Muharram.” 

(Saheeh Muslim 1163)

That’s why the Salaf were keen to fast the ninth, tenth AND eleventh of al-Muharram. 

Imam Ahmad said: 

“whoever wants to fast ‘Ashooraa’ should fast on the ninth and the tenth, unless there is some uncertainty about the months, in which case he should fast for three days.” (Al-Mughni, 4/441)

Ibn Abi Shaybah reported:

“Tawoos used to fast one day before it and one day after it, for fear of missing it.” [al-Musannaf (2/313)]

Shaikh Muhammad Ali Ferkous said:

“It is also recommended to fast the day preceding Aashooraa’ which is the ninth day of the month 

al-Muharram as it is mentioned in the hadeeth of Ibn Abbaas. 

Furthermore, it is recommended to fast a day AFTER Aashooraa’, that is to say, the ELEVENTH day of the month of Al-Muharram, as it is narrated in an authentic and mawqoof text according to Ibn Abbaas radhi Allaahu anhumaa: “Fast the day of Aashooraa; be different from Jews, fast one day before it or one day after it” (Fatwa # 817)

And Shaikh Ibn Baaz said:

“One may also observe fast on *all three days*, i.e. the ninth, the tenth, and the eleventh of Muharram as is reported in some narrations: “Fast a day before (the Day of ‘Ashura’) and a day after it.”

And he said:

“fasting the ninth (of Muharram) along with the tenth is better. If one fasts the tenth along with the eleventh then that suffices due to differing from the Jews, and if one fasts them both together along with the tenth then there is no harm.”(Majmoo’ Fataawa vol 15 p.403)

And Allaah knows best.

174. Places of Duaa In Salaah

By Asma bint Shameem

The whole of Salaah itself is Duaa.
There are many places in the Salaah where we can make Duaa.

For example:

1. At the start

When we start the Salaah, the first thing we do after the opening takbeer is duaa.
That’s why it’s called “Duaa al-Istiftaah” or “the opening duaa”.

One of those duaas:

Abu Hurayrah radhi Allaahu anhu asked the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam:

“O Messenger of Allaah. What do you say when you are silent between the takbeer and recitation?” He said: “I say:

اللَّهُمَّ بَاعِدْ بَيْنِي وَبَيْنَ خَطَايَايَ ، كَمَا بَاعَدْتَ بَيْنَ المَشْرِقِ وَالمَغْرِبِ ، اللَّهُمَّ نَقِّنِي مِنَ الخَطَايَا ، كَمَا يُنَقَّى الثَّوْبُ الأَبْيَضُ مِنَ الدَّنَسِ ، اللَّهُمَّ اغْسِلْ خَطَايَايَ بِالْمَاءِ ، وَالثَّلْجِ ، وَالبَرَدِ

Allaahumma baa’id bayni wa bayna khataayaaya kama baa’adta bayna al-mashriqi wa’l-maghrib. Allaahumma naqqini min khataayaaya kama yunaqqa al-thawb al-abyad min al-danas. Allaahumma ighsilni min khataayaaya bi’l-thalji wa’l-maa’i wa’l-barad

O Allaah, put a great distance between me and my sins, as great as the distance You have made between the East and the West. O Allaah, cleanse me of sin as a white garment is cleansed from filth. O Allaah, wash away my sins with snow and water and hail).”
(al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

2.In rukoo:

It’s proven that the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam made duaa in rukoo and said:

سبحانك اللهمّ ربنا وبحمدك اللهمّ اغفر لي

“Subhaanak Allaahumma Rabbanaa wa bi hamdika Allaahumma ighfir li

“Glory and praise be to You, O Allaah our Lord. O Allaah, forgive me.”
(al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

3. When we rise from rukoo, we say the duaa of witr:

 Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali radhi Allaahu anhumaa said:

“The Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam taught me words to say in Witr:

اللهمّ اهدني فيمن هديت وعافني فيمن عافيت وتولني فيمن توليت وقني شرما قضيت فإنك تقضي ولا يقضى عليك وإنه لا يذل من واليت ولا يعز من عاديت تباركت ربنا وتعاليت

“Allaahumma ihdini feeman hadayta wa ‘aafini feeman ‘aafayta wa tawallani feeman tawallayta wa baarik li feema a’tayta, wa qini sharra ma qadayta , fa innaka taqdi wa la yuda ‘alayk, wa innahu laa yadhillu man waalayta wa laa ya’izzu man ‘aadayta, tabaarakta Rabbana wa ta’aalayt

“O Allaah, guide me among those whom You have guided, pardon me among those whom You have pardoned, turn to me in friendship among those on whom You have turned in friendship, and bless me in what You have bestowed, and save me from the evil of what You have decreed. For verily You decree and none can influence You; and he is not humiliated whom You have befriended, nor is he honored who is Your enemy. Blessed are You, O Lord, and Exalted).”
(al-Tirmidhi - saheeh by al-Albaani)

It’s allowed to ADD to the duaa of Qunoot in witr and say any duaa after it.

4. In sujood:

We are encouraged to make a LOT of duaa in sujood and this is the BEST place to make duaa.

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“The closest that any one of you may be to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so say a lot of du’aa’ at that time.” (Muslim)

We can make ANY duaa in the sujood that’s from the Qur’aan or Sunnah or even our own duaa in our own language.

5. In between the two sujood:

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam would make duaa in between the two sujood:

اللهمّ اغفر لي وارحمني واجبرني واهدني وارزقني

“Allaahumma ighfir li warhamni wajburni wahdini warzuqni

“O Allaah, forgive me, have mercy on me, enrich me, guide me and grant me provision.”
(al-Tirmidhi- Ibn Maajah, saheeh by al-Albaani)

6. In tashahhud after sending peace and blessings on the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa Sallam but before Tasleem.

Ibn Mas’ood radhi Allaahu anhu said:

“The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam
taught them the tashahhud then he said at the end:
“Let him ask for whatever good things he wishes.” (al-Bukhaari, 5876; Muslim, 402)

There are many duaas that are narrated in the authentic ahaadeeth that can be said in tashahhud before tasleem.

One such duaa is:

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“When any one of you has finished the last tashahhud, let him seek refuge with Allaah from four things and say:

اللهمّ إني أعوذ بك من عذاب جهنم ومن عذاب القبر ومن فتنة المحيا والممات ومن شر فتنة المسيح الدجال

Allaahumma inni a’oodhu bika min ‘adhaabi jahannam wa min ‘adhaab il-qabri wa min fitnat il-mahyaa wa’l-mamaat wa min sharri fitnat il-maseeh il-dajjaal

“O Allaah, I seek refuge with You from the torment of Hell and from the torment of the grave and from the trials of life and death and from the evil of the trial of the Dajjaal.” (Muslim)

We can also make duaa in this position in our own language as well.
And this is one of the places where duaa is more likely to be accepted.

NOTE:

In certain places in the Salaah such as at the beginning right after the opening takbeer, on rising from the rukoo, or in between the two sujood, it’s better to stick to the Duaas narrated in the authentic ahaadeeth rather than adding your own duaas.

So make use of these beautiful moments in Salaah and make duaa.

And Allaah knows best.

173. The Black Seed

By Asma bint Shameem 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said about the black seed:

“In it there is healing for every disease, except as-saam (death).” 

(al-Bukhaari, Muslim) 

Alhamdulillaah the black seed is good against many diseases and research  has proven it has many medical benefits. 

*How to take the Black Seed?*

There’s no specific way to take this black seed. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam just told us that it’s beneficial against many diseases. 

But he did not explain exactly “HOW” to use it. 

That’s why the scholars said that whatever is based on experience and research should be taken. 

They also said that in their experience, the amount and way it’s  to be taken varies with the kind of sickness. 

Al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar said:

“The way to treat disease using the black seed varies from one disease to another.

What is meant by this seed being a healing for every disease is that it should not be used on its own; 

rather it may be used on its own or with other ingredients. 

It may be used ground up or otherwise, and it may be eaten, drunk, used like snuff, applied as a poultice, and in other ways.”

[al-Fath (10/144)]

Khaalid ibn Sa‘d said: 

“We went out, and Ghaalib ibn Abjar was with us, and he fell sick. 

When we came to Madinah he was still sick. 

Ibn Abi ‘Ateeq visited him and said to us: 

“You should use this little black seed: take five or seven of them and grind them, then mix it with olive oil and put drops in his nose, on this side, and on this side, for ‘Aa’ishah told me that she heard the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam say: 

“This black seed is a healing for every disease except as-saam.” 

I said: What is as-saam? 

He said: Death.”

[Al-Bukhaari (5687)]

The scholars also said:

“The ways in which it is used vary according to what people of experience and knowledge suggest, or what modern medical research suggests, based on experience and on the properties of the black seed and its effect on disease.

Based on that, there is nothing wrong with stipulating that the black seed should be taken in a particular manner, according to the type of sickness, on condition that this method is proven to be beneficial, either from experience or on the basis of scientific research.”

(Islamqa Fatwa # 154257)

Does it work against ALL diseases?

The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam is *truthful* and we believe *whatever he says*. 

And of course we believe what the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said about the black seed. 

However, the scholars had a difference of opinion among themselves about the *application* of this hadeeth. 

Some said that is to be understood according to the general meaning, so it includes *ALL diseases*.

And some said that it is general in *wording* but *specific in meaning*, so what is meant is “most” diseases.

Al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar said:

“It was said that the words “every disease” refer to every disease that could be treated with it, because it is beneficial in the case of cold diseases; as for hot diseases, it is not.”

 But Al-Khattaabi said:

“The words “From every disease” are *general terms* but what is meant by them is something *specific*, because there is no medicine made from plants that could be used to treat *all diseases*; rather what is meant is that it is healing for every disease that is caused by moisture.”

And there were other scholars with similar opinions. 

Abu Bakr ibn al-‘Arabi said:

“According to physicians, *honey* is more likely to be a remedy for every disease than the black seed. 

Nevertheless, there are some diseases that if a person drinks honey, it will make matters worse. 

If what is meant by the description of honey as something “wherein is healing for men” [an-Nahl 16:69] is that it is healing for *most diseases*, then it is *more appropriate* to say that with regard to the *black seed*.”

And Ibn al-Qayyim said: 

“The words “healing from every disease” are like the verse in which Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala says: 
“Destroying *everything* by the Command of its Lord” [al-Ahqaaf 46:25]. 

That is, it (the storm or wind referred to in the previous verse) destroyed everything that *could* be destroyed, and the like.”

[Zaad al-Ma‘aad (4/297)]

Shaikh Ibn Baaz summarizes the meaning of this hadeeth beautifully.

He said:

“Many people do not benefit from the means and measures, or from ruqya done by reciting Qur’an or other words, because the *conditions* are not met and the *impediments are not absent.*

If every sick person could be healed by means of ruqya or medical treatment, *no one would die*. 

But it is *Allaah*, may He be glorified, in Whose hand is control of healing. 

*If He wills that, He makes the means thereof easily available, and if He does not will that, the means will be to no avail.”*

[Majmoo‘ Fataawa Ibn Baaz (8/61)]

So go ahead and use the black seed regularly but KNOW that “Healing” is in the Hands of Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala. 

If He wills, the black seed will work. 

And if He does not will that, then the black seed will NOT work, *no matter how much or how often you take it.*

And Allaah knows best.

172. The Do’s And Don’ts Of Iddah

By Asma bint Shameem

When a woman’s husband dies, Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala has ordered her to observe iddah or mourning period. 

Generally speaking, the Iddah for a widow is four months and ten day of the LUNAR calendar. 

Allaah says:

“And those of you who die and leave wives behind them, they (the wives) shall wait (as regards their marriage) for four months and ten days” (Surah al-Baqarah :234)

However, if she’s pregnant at the time of her husband’s death, her iddah will end when she gives birth. 

Allaah says:

“And for those who are pregnant, their Iddah (prescribed period) is until they deliver (their burdens)” (Surah at-Talaaq :4)

Based on the evidence from the Sharee’ah, there are certain things a widow must do and certain things she should avoid out of respect for her deceased husband. 

*The Dos and Donts during iddah*

1. She should not adorn herself in any way. So she cannot apply makeup, kohl, henna, hair dye etc. 

2. She shouldn’t wear bright, beautiful clothes. Rather she should wear plain, simple clothes. 

3. She shouldn’t wear perfume 

4. She shouldn’t wear any jewelry 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“She (the widow) should not wear any colored clothes, only simple dress. She should not apply kohl to her eyes, or use perfume, except for a little qust or izfaar (types of perfume), when she cleans herself after finishing her period.” (Muslim)

5. She should stay in her husband’s house until the iddah is over, unless there’s a legitimate REASON for her to not stay there. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam told the widow:

“Stay in the house in which the news of your husband’s death came to you, until your ‘iddah is over.” (Ibn Maajah — saheeh by al-Albaani)

6. If she needs to go out for some reason, she can do so during the day but she needs to come back and spend the night at her husbands house.

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said: 

“A woman whose husband has died should remain in her house and not come out except for a legitimate shar‘i reason. As for her going out with no reason, that is not permitted. 

Based on that, it is not permissible for her to go out to visit her neighbours or relatives, or to offer the Eid prayer and so on; rather she should remain in her house.” 

(Fataawa Noor ‘ala ad-Darb)

Some Common Misconceptions 

*Misconception 1*:

*No man can SEE her*

Obviously a woman is supposed to cover herself ALL THE TIME, in front of non-mahram men whether she’s single or married or widowed. 

But people think that this is a special command JUST for the widow. 

So they isolate the woman in a room and don’t let her come out of there no matter what, just because some non-Mahram will ‘*see*’ her. 

And all this even though she didn’t even wear a hijaab or care about covering herself before this!

The widow can come in front of anyone as long as she’s *covered properly*. 

 **Misconception 2*

*She cannot TALK to a non-mahram** . 

Again, a Muslim woman should not talk unnecessarily to a non-Mahram man ANYWAY. 

But if there’s a NEED, and a REASON, she can talk to whoever she wants. 

But based on the same misconception as above, they don’t let any non-Mahram meet her or talk to her even though there may be necessary things to discuss or important decisions to be made regarding finances, or future for herself and her kids. 

As it is, she’s going through a very difficult time and is scared and sad and worried. 

And instead of helping her in this time of grief, by isolating her they make things for her a thousand times worse. 

*Misconception 3*:

*She HAS to stay home and cannot go anywhere * 

Although a widow is supposed to stay at her husbands house and spend her iddah there, she’s ALLOWED to go out during the day *if there’s a NEED*. 

Jaabir radhi Allaahu anhu said:

“My maternal aunt was thrice divorced and she went out to harvest her palm trees. A man met her and told her not to do that. She mentioned that to the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam and he said: “Go out and harvest your palm trees; perhaps you will give some of it in charity or do some good.” (al-Nasaa’i, Abu Dawood)

 Other Misconceptions

- She cannot walk in her house or outside, even in the courtyard or roof especially barefoot or without a head covering, even if she’s alone. 

That’s NOT proven from the Sharee’ah. 

- She cannot cook or clean or do any of the household chores. 

Astaghfirullaah why would she be punished this way?

- She cannot brush her hair or even take a shower except once a week, etc 

*NONE of the above is true or proven from the Sharee’ah* 

Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala has outlined the rulings for a widow and they’re enough for us Alhamdulillaah. We don’t need to follow anyone or anything else. 

Our Deen is clear. We need to educate ourselves and follow the authentic guidelines and stay away from misconceptions and bid’ah. 

May Allaah guide us. Ameen.

171. Al-Muharram: The Month Of Voluntary Fasting

By Asma bint Shameem 

Alhamdulillaah!

Great news!

Al-Muharram, the month  of *voluntary fasting* is here! 

A chance to earn tremendous rewards! 

A beautiful opportunity to gain the Pleasure of Allaah!

How’s that, you ask?

*Fasting this month is the most beloved of fasting to Allaah after the fasting of Ramadhaan. *

“The best of fasting after Ramadhaan is fasting Allaah's month of al-Muharram.”

(Muslim 1163)

*The rewards of fasting are SO VAST that they’re known only to Allaah!*

“Every deed of the son of Adam will be multiplied between ten and SEVEN HUNDRED times. 

Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala said: Except fasting. It is for Me and I shall reward for it. He gives up his desires and his food for My sake.” 

[Muslim (1151)]

*Each day of fasting will distance you further and further away from the Fire of Hell!*

"No servant fasts a day for the sake of Allaah except that Allaah removes the hellfire seventy years away from his face." (Muslim)

*Fasting will take you to Jannah!*

Abu Umamah  radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

"I came to the Messenger of Allaah sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam and said: 

'Order me to do a deed that will allow me to enter Paradise.' 

He said: 
'Stick to fasting, as there is no equivalent to it.' 

Then I came to him again and he said: 'Stick to fasting."' (an-Nasa'ee; saheeh by al-Albaani)

*You will be honored on the Day of Judgment!*

“In Paradise there is a gate called al-Rayyaan, through which those who used to fast will enter on the Day of Resurrection, and no one but they will enter it. It will be said, ‘Where are those who fasted?’ They will get up, and none will enter it but them. When they have entered, it will be locked, and no one else will enter.” 

(al-Bukhaari 1763, Muslim 1947). 

*In this month is the day of Aashooraa; the day the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam LOVED to fast!*

Ibn Abbas radhi Allaahu anhu said:

“I did not see the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam as eager to fast a day and preferring it over others except for this day of Ashooraa and this month of Ramadhaan.” (al-Bukhaari 1902, Muslim 1132) 

*It is also recommended to fast the ninth and eleventh of this month*  

Al-Hakam ibn al-A’raj reported: 

I went to Ibn Abbas radhi Allaahu anhu and I said, 

“Tell me about fasting the day of Ashooraa.” 

Ibn Abbas said, 

“When you see the crescent of the month of al-Muharram, count the days and wake up to fast on the ninth day.” 

I said, 
“Is this how the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam fasted it?” 

Ibn Abbas said, 
“Yes.” 

(Saheeh Muslim 1133)

Ibn Hajar said, 

“The fast of Ashooraa has three levels: 

-the lowest is to fast one day, 

-the next is to fast the ninth day along with it, 

-and the next is to fast the ninth, tenth, and eleventh days.” 

(Fath al-Baari 1896)

*Great opportunity of fasting coming up in the next few days:*

If you can’t fast most of this month, then at least try and fast the following days:

*Thursday* Aug 27 2020: *Sunnah fasting of Thursday*

*Friday* Aug 28 2020: 

*The Day before Aashooraa*

(The 9th of Muharram)

*Saturday* Aug 29 2020: *The Day of Aashooraa*

(The 10th of Muharram)

*Sunday* Aug 30 2020: *The Day after Aashooraa*

(The 11th of Muharram)

*Monday* Aug 31 2020: *Sunnah fasting of Monday*

*Tuesday* Sept 01 2020: *Sunnah fasting of Ayyaam al-Beedh or the White Days*

(The 13th of Muharram)

*Wednesday*  Sept 02 2020:  

*Sunnah fasting of Ayyaam al-Beedh or the White Days*

(The 14th of Muharram)

*Thursday* Sept 03 2020:  

*Sunnah fasting of Ayyaam al-Beedh or the White Days*

(The 15th of Muharram)

In addition to these days, do try and fast the rest of Mondays and Thursdays of this month, as well. 

Alhamdulillaah!

So many days!

So many opportunities!

So come on my brothers and sisters!

Let’s try and fast as much as we can in this beautiful month and make the most of this great opportunity. 

Allaah is literally handing out rewards to us in the form of fasting! 

What’s stopping YOU from reaping these blessings and earning His Great Pleasure?!

170. Kill Two Birds With One Stone

By Asma bint Shameem 

We all know that the most beloved fasting to Allaah after the month of Ramadhaan is in this month of Muharram. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“The BEST fasting after the month of Ramadhaan is fasting in the month of MUHARRAM.” (Muslim) 

Then what better chance than to use this month to make up for any previous FARDH fasts that we had missed for ANY reason and need to make up?!

The ulama explain that since the fasting of Muharram is ‘non specific’, it's allowed to fast with TWO intentions; 

1. making up the fardh fasts 

2. fasting in Muharram 

This way you get to do TWO things at the same time and earn DOUBLE REWARDS! 

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said:

“If a person fasts the day of ‘Arafah or the day of ‘Ashoora’, and he still owes fasts from Ramadhaan, his fast will be valid. But if he intended to fast that day to make up for a missed Ramadhaan fast, he will have TWO REWARDS: the reward of the day of ‘Arafah or the day of ‘Ashoora’, and the reward for making up the missed fast.” 

(Fataawa as-Siyaam (438)

You can fast *throughout* most of this month of Muharram including the NINTH and the TENTH. 

The ulama of the Standing Committee said:

“If you fast the tenth and eleventh of Muharram with the intention of making up days that you owe from Ramadhaan, that is permissible and will make up for two of the days that you owe.” 

(Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 11/401)

So use this perfect chance to fast in this month of Muharram and make up all the fardh fasts you needed to. 

And get double rewards. 

Yes that's right. 

Achieve two goals with one effort. 

Two birds. 

One stone. 

Alhamdulillaah 

169. Should I Offer Congratulations For The New Islaamic Year?

By Asma bint Shameem

There's NO PROOF from the practice of the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam or the Sahaabah that they would congratulate each other for the new islaamic year or 'celebrate' it in any way. 

In fact, the Islaamic calendar was made by the Sahaabah for HISTORY PURPOSES  and for recording their actions; *NOT for celebrating or commemorating it in any way*. 

Shaikh al-Fawzaan said:

“This is an *innovation*, congratulating for the new year, it is an *innovation*; or commanding of fasting or charity [for the purpose of the new year] *ALL of this is innovation*. Allaah has not revealed evidence upon it”

[Al-Muntaqa min Akhbaar Sayyid al-Mursaleen – 39]

Dr. Bilal Philips said:

“‎Neither Prophet Muhammad Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam, nor his righteous companions attached any special tradition to a new Islamic year. It is a sacred month to increase in righteous acts, not rowdy celebrations. To stray from this understanding is a form of innovation.”

And he said:

“What is there to celebrate of a year that has passed - becoming a year closer to the grave? Unless your reflection is on the good deeds that you sent up to Allaah during the past year so that Allaah might have mercy on you on the Day of Judgment! 

That would be more meaningful.”

*In other words, the first day of the new year is a NORMAL day, just like any other day*. 

*No need to “celebrate” it.*

*No need to think it’s “special”.*

What if someone congratulates me? Then what?

You can respond in kind words and duaas but you should NOT be the one initiating it. 

Shaikh ibn ul-Uthaymeen said:

“If someone congratulates you then reply (i.e. make dua that Allaah makes it a good and blessed year), but do not do it yourself (i.e. do not begin it yourself by congratulating someone initially)….

I do not know that our pious predecessors used to congratulate each other for the arrival of the new year of Hijra…”

[Silsilatul Liqaa as-Shahry 20/44; via Sahab]

Imaam Ahmad said: 

“I do not initiate the greeting but if someone greets me I return the greeting, because responding to the greeting is obligatory."

Are there any specific prayers to be read for the New year?

No. 

There’s nothing proven from the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam or the Sahaabah that they read any special rak’aat or prayers or duaas for the new year. NEVER. 

Someone asked Shaikh Saalim Baamihriz about reading two rak’aat at New year. 

He said:

“May Allaah bless you, this is from innovation, misguidance, and superstition which has no basis in the religion. O brother, may Allaah bless you, the prayer is not legislated for these things. The prayer is either obligatory and legislated or a Sunnah which the Messenger, clarified; upon him be prayers and peace. As for making the prayer to be for the commencement of the year and to conclude the year, or to commence the day, or to conclude the day this is from the deviation of those who are astray and leading others astray; and every innovation is misguidance and every misguidance is in the fire. When the people distanced themselves from the Book and the Sunnah they fell into these innovations. Akhee, had it been the Hijrī year, it would've been innovation and misguidance, so what do you think regarding the Gregorian year?! Have Taqwa of Allaah, may Allaah  bless you and beware of these innovations. The Muslim must worship Allaah in every instance, at all times, either by way of a legislative obligation or a clearly defined Sunnah known from the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam. As for these innovations and misguidance which the ignorant, astray commoners  introduce, beware of these deviations may Allaah bless you. By Allaah, I am amazed that in a time in which knowledge is wide spread, the Sunnah is wide spread, and the people know the truth from falsehood, that there are people still upon these deviations and innovations. Whenever and innovation is born a Sunnah dies. So have Taqwa of Allaah. This is from the innovations which pass upon the people every year. Every month they have an innovation; every year they have an innovation; in every condition they have an innovation. Have Taqwa of Allaah, my brother. Acts of worship are only either obligatory or Sunan clarified by the Prophet, upon him be prayers and peace, and the pious predecessors. Leave off these innovations and stay far away from them. Safeguard your religion and the safety of your Aqeedah and the Sunnah. May Allaah bless you, and Allaah’s Aid is sought.”

And Allaah knows best

168. Be Careful During The Sacred Month Of Muharram

By Asma bint Shameem

Alhamdulillaah, the month of Muharram is upon us and we begin another Hijri year, bi idhnillaah. 

Just as the devout Muslim eagerly awaits any chance to earn good deeds and gain Allaah's Pleasure, and is careful not to transgress any boundaries, we too, should prepare ourselves for this month of Muharram.

This is because Muharram is one of the four months that are SACRED in the eyes of Allaah.

Allaah says:

"Verily, the number of months with Allaah is twelve (in a year): It was so ordained, by Allaah on the Day when He created the heavens and the earth; of them, four are sacred. 

That is the right religion, so wrong not yourselves therein..." [al-Tawbah 9:36]

These four months, according to the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam) are Dhul-Qa'dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab. (al-Bukhaari)

                                                        

1. Do a LOT of EXTRA GOOD DEEDS this Month

Due to its sacredness, good deeds during this month bring a greater reward than in other months. 

They are weightier in the sight of Allaah and bigger in ajr, out of the Mercy and Generosity of al-Rahmaan, al-Kareem.

Ibn 'Abbaas said: 

"Good deeds done during the four sacred months bring a greater reward." 

(Tafseer Ibn Katheer)   

So pay extra attention to all good deeds you can do. 

Take advantage of every opportunity you find your way and don't let it go. 

Do your best and pay extra attention to salah, reciting Qur'aan, giving charity, keeping up ties of kinship, helping someone out or simply just being nice to your family. 

Included in the good deeds is also fasting. 

2. FAST as much as you're able to

Fasting during the month of Muharram has a very special meaning and reward, known only to Allaah and thus the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam has highly encouraged it.

In fact, it's the most beloved of fasting to Allaah after the fasting of Ramadhaan. 

The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam said: 

'The best of fasting after Ramadhaan is fasting Allaah's month of Muharram.'" 

(Muslim 1163)

So fast much of this special month if you are able. 

Or at least do the best you can... as fasting this month is indeed special and the best after the fardh fasting of Ramadhaan.

3. Earn double reward!

If you have fasts that that you owe from Ramadhaan, you can fast in Muharram and get double reward, in Shaa Allaah....one for making up the fardh fast of Ramadhaan and one for fasting in the month of Muharram.  

Shaikh Ibn 'Uthaymeen said:

"Whoever fasts on the day of 'Arafah or 'Ashoora', and still owes some days from Ramadaan, his fast is valid. But if he has the intention of fasting this day to make up for a missed Ramadaan fast, he will have two rewards - one for the day of 'Arafah or 'Ashoora' and another for making up the missed fast. This applies to all voluntary fasts that are not connected to Ramadaan." 

(Majmoo' Fataawa Ibn 'Uthaymeen, 20/438).

4. Fast on the Day of 'Aashooraa (10th of Muharram)

If you're unable to fast much of this month, then at least do your best to fast the tenth. 

It was the practice of our beloved Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam and his Sahaabah.

 Ibn 'Abbaas radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

"The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam) came to Madeenah and saw the Jews fasting on the day of 'Aashooraa'. 

He said, 'What is this?' 

They said, 'This is a righteous day, it is the day when Allaah saved the Children of Israel from their enemies, so Moosa fasted on this day.' 

He (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam) said, 'We have more right to Moosa than you,' so he fasted on that day and commanded (the Muslims) to fast on that day." 

(al-Bukhaari)

5.Get your sins of last year forgiven!

If you fast on the 10th of Muharram, Allaah will forgive all the (minor) sins of the previous year. 

Subhaan Allaah! What a blessing!

The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam said: 

"For fasting the day of 'Aashooraa', I hope that Allaah will accept it as expiation for the year that went before." 

(Muslim)

And Ibn 'Abbaas radhi Allaahu anhu said:

 "I never saw the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam so keen to fast any day and give it priority over any other than this day, the day of 'Aashooraa'." 

(al-Bukhaari)

6. It is Mustahabb to fast the 9th of Muharram as well

It is good to fast on both the ninth AND the tenth day, because the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam fasted on the tenth, and he intended to fast on the ninth as well, the coming year.

Ibn 'Abbaas radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

"When the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam fasted on 'Aashooraa' and commanded the Muslims to fast as well, they said, 'O Messenger of Allaah, it is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians.' 

The Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam said,

'If I live to see the next year, in sha Allaah, we will fast on the ninth day too.' 

But it so happened that the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam passed away before the next year came." (Muslim 1916).

7. What if I can't fast on the 9th for some reason?

If for some reason, you are not able to fast on the 9th, then in that case you can fast on the 11th of Muharram, in addition to fasting on the 10th.

8. What if I can fast on the 10th ONLY.....is that ok?

If you can fast on the 10th only and for some reason, cannot add the fast of the ninth or eleventh to it, the Ulama say that it is also permissible.   

Ibn Taymiyyah said: 

"Fasting the day of 'Aashooraa' is expiation for one year, and it is not makrooh to single out this day for fasting." 

(Fataawa al-Kubra)

9. Be EXTRA CAREFUL about SINS this month

Because Muharram is one of the sacred months, any bad deeds done during any of the sacred months are WORSE than in other months. 

So be extra careful and watch those eyes, ears and limbs. 

Guard that tongue and protect yourself from all wrongdoing.

Qatadah said:

"Wrongdoing during the sacred months is more serious and more sinful that wrongdoing at any other time. 

Wrongdoing at any time is a serious matter, but Allaah gives more weight to whichever of His commands He wants...."

(Tafseer Ibn Katheer)

*Some Misconceptions and Baseless Traditions in Muharram*

There are many wrong traditions associated with the Day of Aashooraa and Muharram, which have nothing to do with the Sharee'ah. 

We have to be careful and guard ourselves from falling into these wrong traditions and bid'ah because this itself is sin.

1) Thinking that Aashooraa' is sacred because of the death of Hussain radhi Allaahu anhu.

Some people think that the sanctity and honor of the day of Aashooraa is due to the martyrdom of Hussain radhi Allaahu anhu. 

Of course, without a doubt, the incidence of Hussain radhi Allaahu anhu and his Shahaadah is one of the most tragic episodes of our history. 

However, the sanctity of 'Aashooraa' is not because of this event.

Actually, the sanctity of 'Aashooraa' was already established during the time of the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam by the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam *himself*, long before Hussain radhi Allaahu anhu was even born!

2) Thinking that Muharram is "UNLUCKY"

Some people consider Muharram an evil or unlucky month, because Hussain, radhi Allaahu anhu was killed in it. 

So they don't hold weddings, and other celebrations during this month.

Thinking that one cannot do so, is again a baseless concept, which is contrary to the teachings of the Qur'aan and the Sunnah.

The month of Muharram is neither unlucky or lucky. 

Believing in such things is superstition and is committing a kind of shirk since one is associating a particular event or month with having power to harm or do good and only Allaah is the One Who has power over all things. 

3) Cooking 'special' kinds of food and distributing it on the 10th specifically.

Some people think it is Sunnah to prepare a particular type of meal on the 10th, (such as Khitchra, haleem, or other special dishes) and distribute it to the poor people. 

And they hold big gatherings for this purpose, thinking there is special reward for doing so. 

This, again has no basis in the Sharee'ah.

4) Mourning and lamenting

Some people mourn and lament and cry over the death of Hussain radhi Allaahu anhu and hold these special 'mourning ceremonies' for this very purpose.

However, the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam never held 'mourning ceremonies' for ANY of his dear family members or his beloved Sahaabah after they had passed away.

In fact he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam FORBADE us from holding mourning ceremonies on the death of any person, because this was the practice of the people of jahiliyyah (ignorance).

He Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa sallam) said: 

"He is not from our group who slaps his checks, tears his clothes and cries in the manner of the people of jahiliyyah." (al-Bukhaari)

And if you really think about it, isn't it the greatest honor and the greatest reward that Hussain radhi Allaahu anhu received, when he achieved Shahadah for the sake of Allaah? 

Isn’t that the BEST way of death?

The time and manner of death is fixed for every single person and that is the decree of Allaah. 

NOTHING can change that. 

And if Allaah had written for Hussain radhi Allaahu anhu to achieve shahaadah at that time, then would it even have been possible in any way for a person to ‘change’ that?

Would there be any reward or good in mourning that?

Should a good Muslim not readily accept the Decree of Allaah, under all circumstances whatsoever? 

5) Celebrating the tenth of Muharram

Some people go to the other extreme and they dress up and cook special dishes, etc. as a kind of a ‘happy’ celebration for this Day and that is ALSO against the Qur'aan and Sunnah.

6) Thinking there's special reward for certain actions on the tenth of Muharram

For example people hold special prayers or offer sacrifice or visit the graves, specifically on the 10th of Muharram, thinking that there is special reward or meaning for doing so, although there's no proof of that in the Sharee’ah. 

It's best to stay away from such beliefs and actions. 

Should we congratulate each other on the new Hijri year?

Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-'Uthaymeen said:

"If someone offers you congratulations, then respond to him, but do not initiate such greetings. This is the correct view concerning this matter...

I do not know of any report that our pious predecessors congratulated one another on the occasion of the new year, rather the salaf did not regard the first of Muharram as the first day of the new year until the Khilaafah of 'Umar ibn al-Khattaab radhi Allaahu anhu.”

And Imaam Ahmad said:

"I do not initiate the greeting but if someone greets me I return the greeting, because responding to the greeting is obligatory. But being the first to offer congratulations is neither Sunnah nor forbidden.   

In Conclusion:

Our behavior during this month should be like the behavior of the Sahaabah, not one of mourning, neither one of celebration.

Rather, we should value Muharram as one of Allaah's sacred months in which we should strive to do good deeds and be extra careful of sinning. 

We should try and fast as much as we can in this month, especially the 9th and 10th.

We should not be superstitious about it (or about anything else, for that matter) and if someone wants to get married during this month, they may do so. 

We should not cook special meals on the 10th and if someone invites us to such a meal, cooked for this purpose, we should not go.

And Allaah knows best.