167. Is There A “Special” Duaa To Be Read On The Night Of The First Of Muharram?

By Asma bint Shameem

*Is there a “special” duaa to be read on the night of the first of Muharram?*

*Or any special prayers to be read for the NEW year?*

ANSWER

There is NO 'special’ duaa to be read on the night of the first of Muharram. 

NOR any “special prayers” to be read for the NEW year. 

Actually, there’s NO CONCEPT of “the NEW YEAR” in our Deen.

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam and the Sahaabah NEVER celebrated the new year nor did they even give any importance to the new year. 

In fact Muharram wasn't even considered the new year at the time of the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam.

It was Umar radhi Allaahu anhu who established Muharram as the first month of a new year for historical and administrative purposes and recording down events. 

What about  certain 'duaas' that are being circulated in various groups claiming that it’s recommended to say these duaas on the first night of Muharram?

NONE of that is true. 

There’s NO PROOF of ANY specific duaa to be read on the first night or day of Muharram. 

Rather, this is adding to the Deen. 

All acts of ibaadah are “tawqeefi”.

That means that there has to be EVIDENCE for the act of ibaadah from the authentic practice or teachings of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

If the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam and the Sahaabah did it, we should do it too. 

But if there’s no proof of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam or the Sahaabah doing an act of ibaadah, we shouldn’t do it either. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“EVERY (Kullu) innovation is a misguidance and every misguidance leads to the Hellfire.” (saheeh Muslim)

The word “Kullu” means EACH and EVERY newly invented thing in the religion is wrong and will lead a person astray. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam also said:

"Whoever invents in this affair of ours (Islaam) what is not from it, then it is REJECTED."

(al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

And he sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“Whoever innovates or accommodates an innovator then upon him is the CURSE of Allaah, His Angels and the whole of mankind.” 

[al-Bukhaari (12/41) and Muslim (9/140)]

So think TEN times before forwarding that post!

You certainly don’t want Allaah’s CURSE on you. 

Do you?!

166. Demonstrations And Protests

By Asma bint Shameem

Demonstrations and protests are not from the Sunnah of the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam. 

So generally speaking, they’re not allowed. 

That’s because they bring about more harm than good;

Many lives are lost, and the destruction is great. 

So Islaam looks out for the greater good. 

But that also depends on “situation” of the protest taking place. 

So some ulama allowed protests IF there is a better outcome and if the protest is peaceful. 

But some ulama said, protests and demonstrations are not allowed, irrespective of any situation. 

Shaikh Saleh al-Fowzaan said about protests and demonstrations:

“Our religion is not a religion of chaos and disorder. 

It is a religion of order, discipline, tranquillity and calmness. 

Demonstrations are not from practices of the Muslims — and the Muslims did not know about them (in the past).

Islaam is a religion of calmness and mercy, a religion of orderly conduct — not a religion of chaos, mischief or inciting discord and trials. So that is the religion of Islaam.

And the rights are arrived at by appealing to the Sharee’ah and the paths of the Sharee’ah.

Demonstrations lead to spilling blood and destruction of wealth and possessions — so these affairs are not permitted.”

However, some ulama said demonstrations and protests ‘’may” be allowed if there’s no violence and there’s hope for some benefit. 

Shaikh Waleed Basyouni said:

“The Assembly of Muslim Jurists (AMJA) fatwa committee have issued a statement in regard to the participation in such demonstrations. 

Its conclusion is that it can be different from one country to another while the default of peaceful civil protest is that it is permissible.  

Each situation should be judged by itself  as by its scholars and leaders based on the benefits and harms.  

As for what we have seen in Egypt and other Muslim countries, I believe that it was correct and may Allaah  make the outcome of such change in the Muslim world, positive and good for them and their future. “ (AMJA Fatwa # 86280)

And Allaah knows best

165. Important Reminder About Marriage ( In Islam )

A happy marriage has two people, a man and woman who love each other, have a great deal of mercy between them and are committed to bringing out the best in each other. Like the plant, marriage needs regular nourishment too.

Many marriages are just for sleeping and waking up, raising kids and ageing together till death comes. This is not right. Marriage must be enjoyable and romantic.

-) Many couples hardly kiss and they only hug each other when they receive good news.

-) The husband only puts food in his wife's mouth only when she is terminally ill and can't feed herself.

-) If you see a man opening car door for his wife means the door is faulty.

-) The only thing that makes an african man touch his wife's neck is when she complains of fever. He wont touch it again till the next fever.

-) The only time he can carry his wife on his arms is when she is in labour.

-) If you see them seated outside at night, don't think they are romantic. They are only waiting for the smell of insecticide to vanish.

-) Many wives buy gifts for their husbands only when they are hospitalized.

-) The only time they race together is when there is danger and everyone is running.

-) *The only time they go for evening stroll is when they want to go and lay a complain to the parents of the person that beat their child*

-) The only time they bath together is when both are late for work.

-) The only time a wife looks closely to her husband's eyes is when he complains of dirt in his eyes.

Unfortunately, Many people feel that any romantic man is being controlled by his wife. They will begin to spread bad rumours. Let us just change today for the better. Let us learn to love one another and enjoy the few days we have on earth together!

THIS GOES TO ALL MARRIED COUPLES AND THOSE PREPARING TO GET MARRIED SOON ( IN SHAA ALLAH ).

-) My dear sisters and brothers in Islam:

No matter how good of a person you are,you will never be good enough for someone who is ready for marriage, stop wasting time with a person who is not ready to meet or take you to meet the elders. Real love starts after nikkah.

We ask Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala) to bless the marriages in the Muslim community and gather us with our families and spouses in Paradise, where the real wealth is, May He ( Subhanahu wa Ta’ala ) grants us All the true understanding.

Allahumma Ameen

-) My dear sisters and brothers in Islam : 

"You must value those who advice you and call you towards goodness, they are the ones pushing you towards Jannah."

164. Can I Make Up My Salaah Which I Didn't Pray When I Was Young

by Asma bint Shameem 

If someone has missed a lot of fardh Salaah for no valid reason and it’s been a while, then there’s *no making up for it*. 

It’s *too late* and what’s gone is *gone*. 

That’s because Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala has prescribed *specific times* for specific Salaah and once the time is gone, that Salaah is also gone. 

Allaah says:

“Verily, As‑Salaah is enjoined on the believers at *fixed hours*” 

(Surah al-Nisaa :103)

*Just think about it.*

Allaah and His Messenger Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam have told us SPECIFIC times when a particular Salah will *start* and and when it will *END*. 

So how can any prayer that’s done after the times ends be valid? 

Shaikh Ibn Uthaimeen said: 

“If a person misses a Salah without any Shar’ee excuse, then *even if he prays that Salah a THOUSAND times, he won’t be able to pray it.”*

Subhaan Allaah!

And he said:

“Prayer is an act of worship that is to performed at specific times, and whoever does not do an act of worship that is tied to a specific time – such as prayer and fasting – until that time is over, with no excuse, then repents, does not have to make up what he omitted, because this act of worship has been limited by the Lawgiver to the beginning and ending of that time.” 

(Fataawa al-Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, 1/322)

*SO NOW WHAT TO DO*?

1. Make sincere, heartfelt Taubah to Allaah. 

2. Have deep, DEEP regret in your heart for missing Salah. 

3. Make firm resolve never EVER to miss Salah again

4. Be EXTREMELY VIGILANT about your Salaah. 

Guard it with your LIFE. 

5. Do as many good deeds as possible in the hope that the good deeds will outweigh the bad deeds and cancel them out with the Mercy of Allaah. 

“Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds” (Surah Hood :114)

BUT if you genuinely forgot, or overslept and missed the Salah *unintentionally*, or you’re a doctor saving someone’s life or something like that, and you missed your Salah, then in that situation you should make it up as soon as possible. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“Whoever forgets a prayer or sleeps and misses it, let him pray it when he remembers, and there is no other expiation for it but that.” 

(Al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

Also notice that this “missing” of the Salaah would be something RARE, here and there, in certain specific situations ONLY. 

it’s not something ROUTINE. 

May Allaah enable us to be regular in our Salah and enable us to guard it with our lives. Ameen. 

And Allaah knows best

163. Easy Way To Change Ourselves

There was a king long time ago and he had a vast kingdom. Though he had tremendous amount of wealth, but he didn't have peace of heart. So he decided to be a good human. 

He heard that there is a very pious man who stays in a jungle and that many people go to visit him for advice. 

The king decided to visit him for some advice also. When he got there, he asked the pious man "How can I become pious like you?" The pious man replied that remember death 40 times a day for 40 days. The king thought that it was very easy and he thanked him and left for his palace. He remembered death 40 times a day for 40 days but no change came to his life. He was same as before.

The king became angry and called that pious man to his court. The king told him that he is nothing but a liar and that he should be killed before he fools other people. It was decided that he will be beheaded the next day. But the Pious man had a request. He asked if he could become the king for a day. He promised that after getting the command, he will not kill the previous king or do any harm to him. So, the king agreed and made the pious man the king for a day. 

As soon as the pious man became the king, he went to the market and saw a man selling peanuts. He told the soldiers to catch that man and bring him to the palace. So, the peanut sales man was brought to the court. The pious man told the peanut sales man that he will be killed tomorrow. The peanut sales man became frightened and dropped all his peanuts. He started crying and asked what he did. But the pious man said that he will be killed tomorrow and locked up in jail for today.

Now, as the peanut sales man knew that he is going to die, he forgot about everything else and started asking forgiveness from Allah. He started praying and doing excessive dhikr (remembrance of Allah). The Pious man ordered that the most beautiful prostitute in the city should be brought and placed in the jail with peanut sales man. She was brought and she asked the man to commit adultery with her. Now the pious man brought the previous king and told him to watch. The peanut sales man started yelling at the woman to get away because he is going to die tomorrow and this evil deed will surely cause him problems with Allah.

Then the pious man asked the previous king if he understood what is going on. The Pious man explained that when you really know that you will die, then you will surely stay away from all evil deeds and engage yourself into the worship of Allah. So, remembering death once properly would be enough to change the life of a human being.

Of course, the peanut sales man was released afterwards.

Read: 
Women impure are for men impure, and men impure for women impure, and women of purity are for men of purity, and men of purity are for women of purity: these are not affected by what people say: for them there is forgiveness, and a provision honorable.

The Holy Quran - The final words of God to humanity.

162. Evil Eye - Protection And Treatment

By Asma bint Shameem

The evil is real and it really does affect people. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“The evil eye is real and if anything were to overtake the divine decree, it would be the evil eye." (Muslim)

Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala told the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam and us to seek refuge with Him from the evil eye and envy. 

He said:

“And from the evil of the envier when he envies.” 

(Surah al-Falaq:5)

Evil eye usually comes from someone who's jealous. But that's not necessarily true. 

It can also come from someone who's admiring something even though he's not jealous. 

Proof:

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“Whoever among you sees something in himself or in his possessions or in his brother that he likes, let him pray for blessing for it, because the evil eye is real.” (Ibn al-Sunni, al-Haakim--saheeh by al-Albaani)

That means a person can put evil eye on himself or his loved ones even though he didn't mean to. 

That's why ibn al-Qayyim said:

"And a man may put the evil eye on himself." (Zaa’d al-Ma’aad, 4/167).

Signs:

There are not any SPECIFIC symptoms or signs where someone can say that this person has been afflicted with the evil eye for sure. 

But a person may get headaches, or unspecific aches and pains in his body or there's a sudden change in his health, or behavior, sleeplessness or nightmares, etc. 

Sometimes they may even faint... the symptoms depending on the severity of the evil eye. 

The people who're experts in the field of its treatment (called 'raaqi' and the treatment is called 'ruqyah') can usually recognize its signs. 

There was a sahaabi called Sahl ibn Hunayf. He was very handsome and was traveling with the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam and some other Sahaabah. One of the Sahaabah looked at him and commented on his handsomeness. As soon as he said that, Sahl radhi Allaahu anhu had a seizure and fell to the ground and he wouldn't wake up. They took him to the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam and said:

“O Messenger of Allaah, do you know what has happened to Sahl? By Allaah, he cannot raise his head and he will not wake up.” 

The Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam 

said, 

“Do you accuse anyone with regard to him?” They said, “‘Aamir ibn Rabee’ah looked at him.” So the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) called ‘Aamir and spoke angrily with him, saying, “Would any of you like to kill his brother? If you see something that you like, why do you not pray for blessing for it?” 

Then he Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam told the sahaabi who gave him the evil eye to wash himself and make wudhu. This water was then poured on Sahl radhi Allaahu anhu and he woke up as if nothing had happened to him. 

"...then that water was poured over him (Sahl) – a man poured it over his head and back from behind, tilting the vessel. This was done to him, then Sahl went on with the people and there was nothing wrong with him. (Ahmad and others. Saheeh by al-Albaani)

Protection against it:

1. Have strong faith and tawakkul in Allaah. 

2. Be vigilant about your five daily prayers 

3. Read the morning and evening adhkaar regularly

4. Read the Qur'aan regularly especially Surah al-Baqarah

5. Read Ayatul Kursi, and the last three Surahs of the Qur'aan after every salah and at bedtime 

6. Read the bedtime adhkaar regularly 

7. WEAR HIJAAB: because the more you 'expose' your beauty to others, the more the chance of them looking at you enviously or admiringly. 

And that includes Jinns!

8. Stay away from all sins especially music. 

Some duaas from the authentic Sunnah:

 أعوذ بكلمات الله التامات من شر ما خلق 

A’oodhu bi kalimat-illah il-tammati min sharri ma khalaqa 

(I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of that which He has created). 

أعوذ بكلمات الله التامة من غضبه وعقابه ، ومن شر عباده ومن همزات الشياطين وأن يحضرون 

A’oodhu bi kalimat-illah il-tammati min ghadabihi wa ‘iqabihi, wa min sharri ‘ibadihi wa min hamazat al-shayateeni wa an yahduroon 

(I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from His wrath and punishment, from the evil of His slaves and from the evil promptings of the devils and from their presence). 

- “The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to seek refuge with Allaah for al-Hasan and al-Husayn. 
He said: 
‘Your father [i.e., Ibraaheem] used to seek refuge with Allaah for Ismaa’eel and Ishaaq with these words: 

أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّةِ مِنْ كُلِّ شَيْطَانٍ وَهَامَّةٍ وَمِنْ كُلِّ عَيْنٍ لامَّةٍ 

A’oodhu bi kalimaat Allaah al-taammah min kulli shaytaanin wa haammah wa min kulli ‘aynin laammah 

(I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allaah, from every devil and every poisonous reptile, and from every bad eye).’”(al-Bukhaari)

Treatment:

Above are some of the ways one can protect against the evil eye. 

What if someone is already afflicted with the evil eye?

We should treat the evil eye with ruqyah which is reading the Qur'aan and the duaas proven from the authentic Sunnah over the afflicted person. 

Aaishah radhi Allaahu anhaa said: 

“The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded me, or he commanded (the people) to use ruqyah to deal with the evil eye.”

(al-Bukhaari)

If you suspect that someone has put the evil eye on someone and if you know who the giver of the 'eye' is, he should be asked to make wudhu and the water should be poured over the affected person. 

Aaishah radhi Allaahu anhaa said: 

“The man who cast the evil eye would be commanded to do wudoo’, and then the man who was affected would wash himself with (the water).”

(Abu Dawood --saheeh by al-Albaani)

If we don't know who it is , then just continue to read the ruqyah over him. 

You can read Surah al-Faatihah, Ayatul Kursi, surah al-Baqarah esp the last two ayaat, the last two surahs of the Qur'aan, etc 

And you can read duaas proven from the authentic Sunnah. 

For example:

Abu Sa’eed radhi Allaahu anhu said:

"Jibreel came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and said: “O Muhammad, are you ill?” He said, “Yes.” He said, 

بِاسْمِ اللَّهِ أَرْقِيكَ مِنْ كُلِّ 

شَيْءٍ يُؤْذِيكَ مِنْ شَرِّ كُلِّ نَفْسٍ أَوْ عَيْنِ حَاسِدٍ اللَّهُ يَشْفِيكَ بِاسْمِ اللَّهِ أَرْقِيكَ 

“Bismillaahi arqeeka min kulli shay’in yu’dheeka, min sharri kulli nafsin aw ‘aynin haasid Allaahu yashfeek, bismillaahi arqeek 

(In the name of Allaah I perform ruqyah for you, from everything that is harming you, from the evil of every soul or envious eye may Allaah heal you, in the name of Allaah I perform ruqyah for you).” (Muslim)

For more authentic duaas please refer to Hisnul Muslim and other authentic sources for ruqyah. 

May Allaah protect us from all evil. Ameen. 

And Allaah knows best.

161. I Read 99 Names Of Allaah Every day. Is That Okay?

By Asma bint Shameem 

It’s true that there’s an authentic hadeeth about 99 Names of Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“Allaah has ninety-nine names, one hundred less one. Whoever memorizes them will enter Jannah.” (al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

However, just reading the Beautiful Names of Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala from a book or even memorizing them is not what’s meant by this hadeeth. 

And there are several points that need to be clarified. 

POINT # 1: 
*People think that there are ONLY 99 Names of Allaah* 

That’s not correct. 

Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala has MORE than 99 Names and we don’t know the exact number. 

This is supported by authentic ahaadeeth.

For example, the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“There is no-one who is afflicted by distress and grief, and says: 

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي عَبْدُكَ ، وَابْنُ عَبْدِكَ ، وَابْنُ أَمَتِكَ ، نَاصِيَتِي بِيَدِكَ ، مَاضٍ فِيَّ حُكْمُكَ ، عَدْلٌ فِيَّ قَضَاؤُكَ ، أَسْأَلُكَ بِكُلِّ اسْمٍ هُوَ لَكَ سَمَّيْتَ بِهِ نَفْسَكَ ، أَوْ عَلَّمْتَهُ أَحَدًا مِنْ خَلْقِكَ ، أَوْ أَنْزَلْتَهُ فِي كِتَابِكَ ، أَوْ اسْتَأْثَرْتَ بِهِ فِي عِلْمِ الْغَيْبِ عِنْدَكَ ، أَنْ تَجْعَلَ الْقُرْآنَ رَبِيعَ قَلْبِي ، وَنُورَ صَدْرِي ، وَجِلَاءَ حُزْنِي ، وَذَهَابَ هَمِّي

“Allaahumma inni ‘abduka ibn ‘abdika ibn amatija naasyati bi yadika, maada fiyya hukmuka, ‘adlun fiyya qadaa’uka. As’aluka bi kulli ismin huwa laka sammayta bihi nafsaka aw anzaltahu fi kitaabika aw ‘allamtahu ahadan min khalqika aw ista’tharta bihi fi ‘ilm il-ghayb ‘indaka an taj’al al-Qur’aana rabee’ qalbi wa noor sadri wa jalaa’ huzni wa dhihaab hammi”

“O Allaah, I am Your slave, son of Your slave, son of Your maidservant; my forelock is in Your hand, Your command over me is forever executed and Your decree over me is just. *I ask You by every name belonging to You which You have named Yourself with, or revealed in Your Book, or You taught to any of Your creation, or You have preserved in the knowledge of the Unseen with You,* that You make the Qur’aan the life of my heart and the light of my breast, and a departure for my sorrow and a release for my anxiety”,

but Allaah will take away his distress and grief, and replace it with joy.” 

He was asked: 
“O Messenger of Allaah, should we learn this?” 

He said:
“Of course; everyone who hears it should learn it.” 

(Ahmad - saheeh by al-Albaani)

This hadeeth shows that there are SOME Names of Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala that He has kept HIDDEN with HIM, preserved in the knowledge of the UNSEEN, and *NO ONE KNOWS* about them EXCEPT Him, Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala. 

That proves that Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala has MORE than 99 Names. 

And there are other authentic ahaadeeth that prove that. 

POINT # 2: 
*Then why does the hadeeth say “Allaah has 99 Names”*

Let me explain it this way:

If I say I have $500 that I want to give for sadaqah, that does not mean that I have ONLY $500/-. 

What my statement means is that OUT of “whatever” money I have, I’m taking out $500/- for sadaqah. 

And it does NOT mean that the TOTAL amount of money I possess is $500/-.

POINT # 3: 
*Some people think just memorizing the names is enough. 

That’s because the hadeeth says:

“Whoever memorizes them will enter Jannah.”*

So they read these 99 Names from a book every day and some even repeat specific Names a certain number of times and think that’s a good way to worship Allaah and hope that’s the means to enter Jannah as per the hadeeth. 

BUT that’s NOT the CORRECT understanding of the hadeeth. 

Shaikh Ibn Uthaymeen said:

“What is meant by memorising them is not merely writing them on a piece of paper, then repeating them until you have memorised them…

“Majmoo‘ Fataawa wa Rasaa’il Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (1/74) 

The ulama explain that the word ‘memorize’ actually implies several things. 

*LEARN the Beautiful Names and UNDERSTAND what they mean* 

*MEMORIZE them by heart*

*CALL upon Allaah with His Beautiful Names in duaa and ASK Him with those Names* 

Allaah says:

“And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allaah, so call on Him by them” (Surah al-A’raaf :180)

So we should ask Allaah and call upon Him with those Beautiful Names that are appropriate for what we’re asking. 

For example, if we’re asking Allaah for forgiveness then we can say “O Allaah, You are al-Ghafoor, the Most Forgiving...so forgive me.”

Or “Yaa Razzaaq... Only You are the Provider. So provide for me, increase my provision and help me find a halal means of earnings” 

And similarly use all other Names like that. 

*ACTING in accordance with those Names*

For example, 

We know that Allaah is al-Waahid, al-Ahad, the One and Only. 

So we should LIVE with Tauheed, ACKNOWLEDGE that He’s the ONLY One worthy of worship, and not associate any partners with Him. We should strive only for His sake, and be sincere to Him alone, in all our words and deeds. 

We know that He is ar-Razzaaq. So we will not ask or hope for our provisions from anyone else except Him. We will depend on no one but Him. And beg no one but Him for anything. That reflects obedience to Him and shows our complete need of Him. 

And He is al-Kareem, the Most Generous. So we should ask no one but Him, knowing the Most Generous will suffice for us. 

At the same time we ourselves should try and implement this beautiful quality in us and be as generous to His creation as we can. 

So KNOW the Beautiful Names of Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala, UNDERSTAND them and LIVE by them by IMPLEMENTING them in your self. 

*THAT is humility*. 

*THAT is part of perfect servitude* 

*THAT is the way to Jannah*

And Allaah knows best

160. Is Family Planning Or Contraception Allowed in Islaam

By Asma bint Shameem 

Contraception is *generally* allowed in our deen as long as it’s not something permanent. 

That’s because we’re supposed to have many kids, if the situation allows. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“Marry those who are loving and fertile, for I will be proud of your great numbers before the nations.” (Abu Dawood- saheeh by al-Albaani) 

But taking measures that will *permanently* prevent a person to have a child is not allowed, UNLESS it would jeopardize the mother’s health or life. Then in such situations, permanent contraception would be *permissible*. 

Shaikh Salih al-Munajjid said:

“Contraception is permitted under the following conditions:

1. Mutual agreement of both husband and wife.

2. It does not cause harm.

3. It is not be practiced on a permanent basis, but rather for a temporary period.”

And Shaikh Salah as-Sawy said:

“It is not permissible to pursue contraceptive methods which would completely prevent the ability to conceive, except as a way of protecting the life of the mother.  In such a case, it would be allowed as a *special exemption* to the rule, in view of the obvious, exigent need, and such a need would have to be determined through the testimony of trustworthy, specialized physicians. As for family planning to delay pregnancy or space births, the matter in that is wide, and there would be nothing wrong with doing so, if need be.” 

(AMJA Fatwa # 77382)

QUESTION 

Is it allowed to take measures to space out pregnancies for proper upbringing of the children?

Shaikh Ibn Baaz said:

“ If a woman has a lot of children, and it is difficult for her to give them a proper Islamic upbringing because they are so many, then there is nothing wrong with her taking something to space her pregnancies in order to achieve this important purpose, so that pregnancy will not adversely affect her or her children, as Allah has permitted ‘azl for this and similar purposes.”

[Fataawa Noor ‘ala ad-Darb by Ibn Baaz ed. by ash-Shuway‘ir (21/394)]

And Allaah knows best

159. Can I Fast On A Friday If I Have To Make Up A Ramadhaan Fast?

By Asma bint Shameem 

Generally speaking it is disliked to fast Friday by itself because Friday is a day of ibaadah and duaas as well as a day of ‘celebration’ for the Muslims and is kind of like an ‘Eid’ for the week. 

However, if we HAVE to fast on a Friday for a specific reason, it’s better to combine that with fasting *a day before or after it*. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

*‘None of you should fast on a Friday unless he fasts the day before or the day after.’”* 

(al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

So if you have to make up your missed days of Ramadhaan and it’s Friday, you’re allowed to fast on Friday. Just fast either Thursday or Saturday along with Friday. 

*What if I can fast Friday ONLY*?

Sometimes it so happens that Friday is the ONLY day when we can fast and it’s not possible to combine this with fasting the day earlier (Thursday) or a day later (Saturday). Then what?

In that situation it’s allowed to fast just Friday by itself because there’s a *‘need’* for it. 

Similarly, it’s allowed to fast on Fridays for someone who usually fasts alternate days and the fast falls on a Friday, or if Friday is one of the Sunnah days of fasting the 13th, 14th and 15th of every month, or if Arafah or Aashooraa falls on a Friday, etc 

So the prohibition to not fast on a Friday will not apply in situations such as these because there’s a ‘reason’ or ‘need’ to fast this day. 

In such situations the INTENTION is not to fast ‘Friday’ but to either make up a fardh fast or fast Aashhoraa or Arafah, or fast for a specific reason. 

*PROOF*

The Standing Committee said:

“It is permissible for a Muslim to fast on a Friday to make up a day from Ramadhaan, even if he fasts the Friday on its own.” 

(Fatwa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, vol. 10, p. 347) 

So go ahead and fast on a Friday if you have leftover fasts to make up, but do add a day to this by fasting on either Thursday or Saturday if possible. That’s preferred. 

But if you can fast Friday ONLY and there’s no way you can fast any other day or combine it with another day, then it’s allowed to even fast Friday just by itself as well. 

And Allaah knows best.

158. How to divide the Udhiyah meat

By Asma bint Shameem

It's good to eat ‘some’ from the udhiyah (qurbaani) and give ‘some’ as charity. 

 Allaah said:

“Then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor having a hard time” 

[al-Hajj 22:28] 

And the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said about the udhiyah: 

“Eat some, store some and give some in charity.” 

(Muslim)

It’s recommended to divide the Udhiyah meat into three parts. 

And keep a third for yourself, give a third to the poor, and a third to your family.

But that’s not a hard and fast rule. 

You could do more or less than that. 

The scholars said:

“The division of the udhiyah into three portions was narrated from some of the Sahaabah radhi Allaahu anhum, but the matter is broad in scope. What matters is that “some” of it should reach the poor and needy.

Ibn ‘Umar radhi Allaahu anhu said: 

“With regard to the meat from the sacrificial animals, one third should be for your family, one third for yourself, and one third for the poor.”

Something similar was narrated from Ibn Mas‘ood radhi Allaahu anhu.”

(Islamqa Fatwa # 160055)

So try to find even one poor person to share some of the Qurbaani (Udhiyah) meat. 

Then, after that, the scholars say that you may distribute the meat however you like. 

Do I ‘have’ to eat some from it?

The majority of the scholars say that it’s mustahabb or recommended to eat some from your own Udhiyah. 

Others say it’s mandatory to eat at least a small portion from your sacrifice. 

That’s because when the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam slaughtered his sacrificial animals, he instructed that a piece from each camel be collected in the cooking pot. 

Jaabir ibn ‘Abdullaah radhi Allaahu anhu  said: 

“Then he went to the place of slaughter and slaughtered sixty-three camels with his own hand, then he gave the knife to ‘Ali and he slaughtered the remaining camels. Then he ordered that a piece from each sacrificial animal be brought; (the pieces) were put in a pot and cooked, and they [the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam and ‘Ali] ate from the meat and drank from the soup… “

[Muslim (1218)]

Imaam An-Nawawi said: 

“This indicates that it is mustahabb to eat from the hadiy and udhiyah. 

The scholars said: Because eating from each one is Sunnah, and eating from each one of the hundred separately was too difficult, a piece from each one was put into a pot, so that he could eat from the soup of all of them which would contain part of each one.“

[Sharh Saheeh Muslim (8/192)]

And Imaam An-Nawawi also said: 

“He only took a piece from each animal and drank from the soup made from all of them so that he would have eaten something from each one of them.” [al-Majmoo‘ Sharh al-Muhadhdhab (8/414)]

Can I keep ALL of it for myself and my family?

It’s *not right* to keep all of it and not give any to charity according to the stronger scholarly opinion. 

That’s because Allaah and His Messenger Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam have told us to share some of the Udhiyah with the poor. 

Allaah said:

“Then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor having a hard time” 

[al-Hajj 22:28] 

And the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said about the udhiyah: 

“Eat some, store some and give some in charity.” 

(Muslim)

Imaan An-Nawawi said: 

“It is obligatory to give in charity as much as may be described as such, because the purpose is to show kindness to the poor and needy. 

Based on that, if a person eats all of it, he is liable for what may be described as a reasonable amount of charity.”

[Rawdat at-Taalibeen wa ‘Umdat al-Mufteen [?] (3/223)]

Someone asked Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen about a person who cooked all the sacrificial meat with his relatives, without giving any of it in charity. 

Is their action valid? 

He said:

“This is wrong, 

because Allah, may He be exalted, says: 

“That they may witness things that are of benefit to them (i.e. reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade, etc.), and mention the Name of Allah on appointed days (i.e. 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th day of Dhul-Hijjah), over the beast of cattle that He has provided for them (for sacrifice) (at the time of their slaughtering by saying: Bismillah, Wallahu-Akbar, Allahumma Minka wa Ilaik). 

Then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor who have a very hard time” [al-Hajj 22:28]. 

Based on that, what they must do now is make up for what they ate themselves, by giving some meat for each sheep, which they may buy and give in charity.”

[Majmoo‘ Fataawa Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (25/132)]

Can I give some of the Udhiyah meat to non Muslims?

Yes that’s permissible. 

Someone asked the scholars about giving Udhiyah to non Muslims since there are no poor Muslims where he lives. 

The scholars said:

“If the one who offers the sacrifice gives some of the meat to one poor Muslim, even if it is only one, after that he may give it in charity to non-Muslims too. 

Ibn Qudaamah said: 

"It is permissible to give some of it – i.e., the udhiyah meat – to a disbeliever. 

This is the view of al-Hasan, Abu Thawr and ashaab ar-ra’y. 

That is because it is charity that is voluntarily given, so it is permissible to give it to a dhimmi (non-Muslim living under Muslim rule) and prisoners of war, as in the case of other kinds of voluntary charity. But in the case of obligatory charity, it is not acceptable to give it to a disbeliever, because it is obligatory charity and therefore is more akin to zakaah and kafaarat yamen (expiation for breaking an oath).“ 

[al-Mughni (11/109)]”

(Islamqa Fatwa # 160055)

And Allaah knows best

157. Can I Fast On The Days Of Tashreeq If I Want To Fast The Sunnah Days Of Monday/Thursday Or The Three Days Of Ayyaam al-Beedh?

By Asma bint Shameem 

The days of at-Tashreeq are the 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhu’l-Hijjah. 

It is not allowed to fast on these days because these are the days of celebrating, eating and drinking and remembering Allaah. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“The days of al-Tashreeq are the days of eating, drinking and remembering Allaah.” [Muslim (1141)]

Hamzah ibn ‘Amr al-Aslami said that he saw a man on a camel following the people in Mina, and the Prophet of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam was present, and the man was saying,

“Do not fast on these days for they are the days of eating and drinking.” 

[Ahmad (16081); saheeh by 

al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 7355]

Abu Murrah the freed slave of Umm Haani’ said that he entered with ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Amr upon his father ‘Amr ibn al-‘Aas. 

He offered them food and said, “

He said: 
“I am fasting.” 

Amr said: 
“Eat, for these are the days on which the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam commanded us NOT to fast, and he FORBADE fasting on these days.”

Maalik said: 
“Those are the days of al-Tashreeq.” 

[Ahmad (17314), Abu Dawood (2418); saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood]

So it’s is not allowed to fast on the Days of Tashreeq, *even if you’re used to fasting* the three white days of every month (al-Ayyaam al-Beedh) or every Monday and Thursday. 

The only exception to fasting these days is for a Hajji who does not have a sacrificial animal. 

Aa’ishah and Ibn ‘Umar radhi Allaahu anhum said: 

“No concession was granted allowing anyone to fast on the days of al-Tashreeq, except for the (pilgrim) who could not find a sacrificial animal.” 

[Al-Bukhaari (1998)]

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said: 

“The days of al-Tashreeq are the three days after Eid al-Adhaa.

The Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said concerning these three days: “The days of al-Tashreeq are the days of eating, drinking and remembering Allaah.”

As that is the case, i.e., their prescribed purpose in sharee’ah is for eating and drinking and remembering Allaah, then this is NOT a time for fasting.

Hence Ibn ‘Umar and ‘Aa’ishah radhi Allaahu anhum said: 
“No concession was granted allowing anyone to fast on the days of al-Tashreeq, except for the (pilgrim) who could not find a sacrificial animal” 

Apart from that, it is NOT permissible to fast on these days. 

Even if a person is obliged to fast two consecutive months, he must break his fast on the day of Eid and the three days after that, then he must resume his fast.”

(Majmoo’ Fataawa Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, 20/question no. 419)

 *So that means I cannot fast Ayyaam al-Beedh this month?*

Although generally speaking, it is recommended to fast the three ‘white days’ of every month, the month of Dhul Hijjah is an *exception*because the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam *forbade* fasting on the 13th (one of the days of Tashreeq).

So the ‘Sunnah’ would be to NOT FAST on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. 

Instead of fasting the 13th, 14th and 15th of this month, you can fast the 14th, 15th and “16th” of this month.  

Or you could fast any other days. 

As long as it’s any three days, you would fulfill the Sunnah of fasting three days of the month.

Mu’aadhah al-‘Adawiyyah radhi Allaahu anhaa asked Aaishah radhi Allaahu anhaa:

“Did the Messenger of Allaah Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam fast three days of each month? 

She said:
Yes. 

She asked: 
“In which part of the month did he fast?”

She said: 

“He would not bother in which part of the month he would fast.” (Muslim)

Shaikh Ibn Baaz said:

“Your mother, or anyone else, should not fast on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah, because the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam forbade fasting on the days of Tashreeq. 

She should fast the 14th and 15th. If she wishes, she can fast the 16th or any other day from the days of Dhul-Hijjah until she completes the three days.

That is because the Prophet Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam 

advised a group of companions to fast three days of every month. Whether they are the three white days or not. 

However, it is best for a Muslim to fast on the three white days (generally).” 

(Majmoo’ Fataawaa 379/15)

And Allaah knows best.

156. The Beautiful, Blessed Days Of At-Tashreeq

By Asma bint Shameem 

Alhamdulillaah! 

Upon us are the beautiful *Days of Tashreeq*.

After the most virtuous days of the entire year, Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala is still blessing us with the SPECIAL days of Tashreeq.

They are the 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhu’l-Hijjah. 

What is a Muslim supposed to do during the days of Tashreeq?

Allaah tells us to REMEMBER Him.

Allaah says:

“And “REMEMBER” Allaah during the ‘appointed’ Days” [al-Baqarah 2:203]

(Ibn Umar radhi Allaahu anhumaa said the “appointed days” are the Days of Tashreeq)

And the Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“They are days of eating, drinking and “REMEMBERING” Allaah.” 

[Muslim (1141)]

So how should we “remember” Allaah during these special days of Tashreeq?

1. Say the Takbeeraat 

Continue saying the Takbeeraat until after Asr of the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.

Say them loud. Say them clear. 

Say them over and over again.

Say them throughout the day and night, sitting, standing, laying down, driving, cooking, cleaning, in the streets and in your home; 

Say the Takbeeraat and magnify the Name of your Rabb.

Say them any chance you get.

And also say them specifically after every prayer. 

Remember to say them from your heart; sincerely...thinking of the meanings.

Umar radhi Allaahu anhu used to say the Takbeeraat in Mina in his tent, during the days of Tashreeq, and when the people heard him, they said the Takbeeraat with him, so much so that Mina ECHOED with the sound of their Takbeer!

Ibn Rajab says:

“It is recommended that one remembers Allaah much in the days of Tashreeq.Umar ibn Khattaab radhi Allaahu anhu used to say the takbeer in Mina and the people would hear him and they would likewise say the takbeer. So in Mina there would be the sound of overwhelming takbeer.”

[Lataa’if Al Mārif’ (503-504)]

“’Ali radhi Allaahu anhu used to make the takbeer beginning after the Fajr Prayer on the day of ’Arafah, up until after the ’Asr Prayer on the last day of at-Tashreeq.” 

[Ibn Abee Shaybah in al-Musannaf (2/1/2); saheeh al-Albaani in al-lrwaa‘ (31/125)]

Why do we say these Takbeeraat at this time?

Saying the Takbeeraat establishes the Tawheed of Allaah Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala.

Imaam al-Khattaabee said, 

“The wisdom behind saying the takbeeraat in these days is that in the times of jaahiliyyah (pre-lslaamic ignorance), they used to slaughter for their tawaagheet (false objects of worship). 

So the takbeeraat were prescribed in order to indicate that the act of slaughtering is directed to Allaah alone, and by mentioning only His – the Mighty and Majestic – Name.” 

[Fathul-Baaree (21/586)]

2. Another way to remember Allaah during these days of Tashreeq is to FREQUENTLY read the followiing duaa:

رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ

After the Aayaat of Hajj, Allaah praises those people who say this  duaa. 

وَمِنْهُمْ مَنْ يَقُولُ رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ

“And of them there are some who say: “Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and save us from the torment of the Fire! [Surat Al-Baqara : 201]

Ibn Rajab says:

“Many of the Salaf would prefer to say this supplication much throughout the days of Tashreeq (due to the verse mentioned above).

Ikrimah radhi Allaahu anhu said:

“It is preferred that one says this supplication during the days of Tashreeq’.” 

[Lataa’if Al Mārif’ (503-504)]

Do repeat this amazing duaa, many times during these blessed days, understanding its meaning and reflecting on it. 

ASK Allaah for the goodness of this Dunya and the goodness of the Aakhirah. 

Hasan al Basri said:

“‘Hasanah’ (goodness) of this dunya  is ‘knowledge and worship (of Allaah)’ and ‘Hasanah’ (goodness) of the Aakhirah is Jannah.”

Sufyan said:

“ ‘Hasanah’ (goodness) in this dunya  is knowledge and pure provisions.  ‘Hasanah’ (goodness) in the Aakhirah  is Jannah’.

3.  Another way to remember Allaah during the days of Tashreeq is to make duaa;  LOTS and LOTS of it.

Duaa is a beautiful way of remembering Allaah and there’s a greater chance of duaa being  accepted during the Days of Tashreeq.

Ibn Rajab says:

“During the Days of Tashreeq supplications are from the most virtuous remembrance of Allaah:

Ziyad Al Jasasee stated from Abi Kinaanah Al Qureshi that he heard Abu Musa Al Ash’ari radhi Allaahu anhu in his sermon on the day of Nahr (Eid ) say:

“After the day of Nahr are *”three appointed days”* mentioned by Allaah. On these days supplications will be accepted so raise your needs to Allaah – ask Allaah!’”

[Lataa’if Al Mārif’ (503-504)]

Allaahu Akbar!

Note:

NO fasting these days

Keep in mind that it’s not allowed to fast on these days of Tashreeq. 

That’s because these days are a kind of Eid for us and a celebration. 

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“Do not fast on these days, for they are the days of eating, drinking and remembering Allaah.” 

[Ahmad, 10286; saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah, 3573]

And Allaah knows best.

155. What To Do If Eid Falls On A Friday?

By Asma bint Shameem 

If Eid falls on a Friday, then the strongest opinion among the ulama is that if a person attends the Eid prayer, then he does not ‘HAVE’ to attend the Jumu’ah prayer, though if he would attend both that would be great. 

But if they chose to attend the Eid prayer only and did not attend the Friday prayer, then of course they would still have to pray Dhuhr. 

Proof:

The Prophet sal Allaahu Alayhi wa sallam said:

“Eid prayer and Friday prayer have fallen on the same day, today. 

Whoever prays ‘Eid prayer, Friday prayer is not obligatory on him. 

As for us, we are going to pray Friday prayer”. (Abu Dawood- authentic by al-Albaani)

Abu ‘Ubayd, the freed slave of Ibn Azhar, said: 

“I was present on the occasion of two Eids (together) with ‘Uthmaan ibn ‘Affaan; that was on a Friday. 

He offered the (Eid) prayer before the khutbah, then delivered the khutbah and said: 

“O people, on this day two Eids have come to you together, so whoever wants to wait for Jumu‘ah with the people of al-‘Awaali, let him do so, and whoever wants to go back, then I gave him permission to do so.” 

(al-Bukhaari) 

Shaykh ibn al-Uthaymeen said:

“If the ‘Eid coincides with al-Jumu’ah, whether it be ‘Eid al Fitr or Eid al Adha, then it is obligatory that the ‘Eid prayer is prayed and that Jumu’ah is prayed. Then it is said to whoever prayed ‘Eid prayer and was not the Imaam, if he wishes he may pray Jumu’ah or if he wishes he may pray Dhuhr in his home instead. This is the summary of the issue.”

This was the opinion of many of the Sahaabah such as Omar, Uthman, Ibn Masoud, Ibn Abbas and others, radhi Allaahu anhum ajma’een. 

Ibn Taymiyyah had the same opinion and said: “and there is no knowledge of any disagreement among them (the Sahaabah) on this.

Ibn Taymiyyah adds: 

“Moreover, if someone attends Eid Salaah, he has already obtained the objective of the congregation (on Friday), so he prays Dhuhr if he did not attend Jumu’ah Salaah.

Dhuhr Salaah will remain on time and Eid Salaah achieves for him the purpose of Jumu’ah congregation. 

Keeping the obligation of Jumu’ah (binding)on people will definitely cause hardship for them, and would ruin the purpose of Eid, and the reason it was prescribed for to show joy and happiness. 

Hence, if people were held back from enjoying their time ( in order to attend Jumu’ah Salaah) Eid will cause an adverse result and negates its purpose.”

Shaikh Saleh al-Fawzaan said:

“If ‘Eid prayer falls on the same day as Friday prayer, whoever prays ‘Eid prayer, it is not obligatory for him to pray Friday prayer. 

Rather Friday prayer becomes recommended (sunnah) for him. 

However, as it relates to the Imam [of the community], it is obligatory for him to pray both ‘Eid prayer and Friday prayer. He can not leave off Friday prayer because those who choose to pray Friday prayer need an Imam. (Fawzaan 2/257).” 

 *What about Dhuhr*

Obviously the obligation of Dhuhr is till there. 

So whoever does not pray Jumu’ah has to pray Dhuhr. 

And Allaah knows best.