With so much misunderstanding in the world about Islam, I hope these simple
facts serve to redress some common misconceptions. …..
Before we begin, let’s get one thing straight: Muslim and Arab are two different
things.
Arab is an ethnic group and as such Arabs can be Christian , Jewish, atheist, Muslim
or any other religion. Islam is a religion.
People often forget that the largest Muslim Country in the world is Indonesia and the
majority of the world’s Muslims are not Arab.
Many non-Arab countries around the world have large Muslim populations
including Senegal, Uzbekistan, Malaysia, Bosnia, Turkey, Cyprus and Ghana
among others.
With the difference between ethnicity and religion now clarified, here are the five
things about Islam you should know:
1. Women and men are equal in Islam:
“Each of you is equal to the other” (Quran, 3: 195) It is true that inequalities exist in
many Muslim societies but it is also true that gender inequalities exist in many non-
Muslim societies as well. Gender inequalities emanate from cultural practices, not
the religion of Islam. In the Quran, men and women enjoy the same rights
spiritually, but also socially and politically. Several Islamic countries have also had
female heads of state, including Pakistan, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Turkey.
2. Muslims love Jesus:
Islam shares many religious figures and historical events with Judaism and
Christianity. Muslims greatly respect Jesus. He is considered a prophet in Islam.
3. Fasting:
Muslims fast for 30 days every year for Ramadan, which is one of the five pillars of
Islam. Ramadan this year is happening during most of the month of June. Muslims
fast to experience what it feels like to be poor and hungry, and to focus on their own
inner spiritual journey. Fasting is a great teacher of compassion.
4. Social Justice:
Islam is a religion with a deep commitment to social justice. In addition to the
practice of Ramadan enabling Muslims to experience hunger as a poor and hungry
person might, another of the five pillars of Islam is to help the poor through a
donation of zakat. Put simply, Muslims must give 2.5 percent of their savings to the
poor, as zakat is a requirement of those who have accumulated wealth.
5. Terrorism is Unislamic :
Violence and suicide missions are un-Islamic. At its core, Islam is a religion of peace,
a message reiterated many times throughout the Quran. The Quran calls its way
“the paths of peace” (Quran 5 vs 16) and states that God dislikes any disturbance of
peace: “God loves not aggressors” (2: 190) Additionally, there has been a fatwa (or
religious decree) speaking directly against terrorism and suicide bombings, stating
they are unjust, evil and have no place in Islam. People who perpetuate violence in
the name of Islam are no more true to their faith than Christians who blow up
abortion clinics.
With so much misunderstanding in the world about Islam, I hope these simple facts
serve to redress some common misconceptions.
Thursday, 9 July 2015
Tuesday, 30 June 2015
WHO SHOULD BE AN IMAM
Assalāmu `alaikum Warahmatullāhi Wabrakatuh,
The one who is most knowledgeable about the rules of salah in terms of distinguishing
what practices validate and invalidate the salah, what are the Sunnah and Makrooh acts
of salah, etc. and is at the same time proficient in reciting the required Qirat correctly
without committing major Tajweed mistakes should lead the salah. [1]
Furthermore, it is not necessary that the aforementioned Imam be an expert in his style
of recitation, that he has a prolific memory and memorized a major portion of the
Quran, or that he be acquainted with the other various fields of Deen. [2]
(Hashiyatut Tahtawi Ala Maraqil Falah, Pg. 299, Qadeemi Kutub Khana; Imdaadul Fattah
Sharhu Nurul Iedaah Wanajatil Arwaah Pg.340, Beirut)
In the terminology of the Shariah, Fisq signifies ‘going beyond the circle of obedience to
Allah, or transgressing the commandments of Allah’. According to the Fuqaha, a Faasiq
refers to one who commits a major sin and does not repent, or persists on committing
minor sins and makes it a habit. On the other hand, one who commits such sins publicly
and openly without being ashamed of it is called a Fajir.
(Ma’ariful Quran English, Pg. 152, Vol. 1, Maktaba e Darul Uloom - Karachi)
If a person is best suited to lead the salah based on him being the most knowledgeable,
but has signs of Fisq on him; for example, he shaves his beard, etc. then he will be
disqualified from leading the salah. To avoid any confusion and dispute as to who is
most qualified to lead the salah, the responsibility of appointing an Imam should be left
with the Ameer. The Ameer is bound to appoint an Imam based on the above mentioned
criteria.
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Maulana Zeyad Danka
Student, Darul Iftaa
South Africa
Checked and Approved by,
Muftī Ebrahim Desai.
www.daruliftaa.net
The one who is most knowledgeable about the rules of salah in terms of distinguishing
what practices validate and invalidate the salah, what are the Sunnah and Makrooh acts
of salah, etc. and is at the same time proficient in reciting the required Qirat correctly
without committing major Tajweed mistakes should lead the salah. [1]
Furthermore, it is not necessary that the aforementioned Imam be an expert in his style
of recitation, that he has a prolific memory and memorized a major portion of the
Quran, or that he be acquainted with the other various fields of Deen. [2]
(Hashiyatut Tahtawi Ala Maraqil Falah, Pg. 299, Qadeemi Kutub Khana; Imdaadul Fattah
Sharhu Nurul Iedaah Wanajatil Arwaah Pg.340, Beirut)
In the terminology of the Shariah, Fisq signifies ‘going beyond the circle of obedience to
Allah, or transgressing the commandments of Allah’. According to the Fuqaha, a Faasiq
refers to one who commits a major sin and does not repent, or persists on committing
minor sins and makes it a habit. On the other hand, one who commits such sins publicly
and openly without being ashamed of it is called a Fajir.
(Ma’ariful Quran English, Pg. 152, Vol. 1, Maktaba e Darul Uloom - Karachi)
If a person is best suited to lead the salah based on him being the most knowledgeable,
but has signs of Fisq on him; for example, he shaves his beard, etc. then he will be
disqualified from leading the salah. To avoid any confusion and dispute as to who is
most qualified to lead the salah, the responsibility of appointing an Imam should be left
with the Ameer. The Ameer is bound to appoint an Imam based on the above mentioned
criteria.
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Maulana Zeyad Danka
Student, Darul Iftaa
South Africa
Checked and Approved by,
Muftī Ebrahim Desai.
www.daruliftaa.net
IMAM IN ISLAM
By Huda , Islam Expert
What does an imam do? The imam leads Islamic prayer and services, but may also take on a
larger role in providing community support and spiritual advice.
How is an imam chosen?
An imam is selected at the community level. Members of the
community choose someone who is considered knowledgeable
and wise. The imam should know and understand the Quran , and
be able to recite it correctly and nicely. The imam is a respected
member of the community. In some communities, an imam may
be specifically recruited and hired, and may have undergone some
special training. In other (smaller) cities, imams are often chosen
from among the existing members of the Muslim community.
There is no universal governing body to supervise imams; this is
done at the community level.
Continue Reading Below
What does an imam do?
The primary responsibility of an imam is to lead Islamic worship
services. In fact, the word "imam" itself means "to stand in front of"
in Arabic, referring to placement of the imam in front of the
worshippers during prayer. The imam recites the verses and words
of prayer, and the people follow his movements. During the
service, he stands facing away from the worshipers, toward the
direction of Makkah.
For each of the five daily prayers , the imam is present at the
mosque to lead the prayers. On Friday, the imam usually delivers
the khutba (sermon). The imam also leads the taraweeh (nightly
prayers during Ramadan), either alone or with a partner to share
the duty. The imam also leads all other special prayers, such as for funerals, prayers for rain,
prayers during an eclipse, and more.
What other role does an imam serve in the community?
In addition to being a prayer leader, the imam may also serve as a member of the larger
leadership team in a Muslim community. As a respected member of the community, the
imam's counseling may be sought in personal or religious issues. One may ask him for
spiritual advice, help with a family issue, or in other times of need. The imam may be involved
in visiting the sick, engaging in inter-faith service programs, officiating marriages, and
organizing educational gatherings in the mosque. In modern times, the imam is increasingly in
a position to educate and reform youth away from radical or extremist viewpoints. Imams
reach out to youth, inspire them in peaceful pursuits, and teach them the correct
understanding of Islam -- in the hopes that they will not fall prey to misguided teachings and
resort to violence.
Cont
What does an imam do? The imam leads Islamic prayer and services, but may also take on a
larger role in providing community support and spiritual advice.
How is an imam chosen?
An imam is selected at the community level. Members of the
community choose someone who is considered knowledgeable
and wise. The imam should know and understand the Quran , and
be able to recite it correctly and nicely. The imam is a respected
member of the community. In some communities, an imam may
be specifically recruited and hired, and may have undergone some
special training. In other (smaller) cities, imams are often chosen
from among the existing members of the Muslim community.
There is no universal governing body to supervise imams; this is
done at the community level.
Continue Reading Below
What does an imam do?
The primary responsibility of an imam is to lead Islamic worship
services. In fact, the word "imam" itself means "to stand in front of"
in Arabic, referring to placement of the imam in front of the
worshippers during prayer. The imam recites the verses and words
of prayer, and the people follow his movements. During the
service, he stands facing away from the worshipers, toward the
direction of Makkah.
For each of the five daily prayers , the imam is present at the
mosque to lead the prayers. On Friday, the imam usually delivers
the khutba (sermon). The imam also leads the taraweeh (nightly
prayers during Ramadan), either alone or with a partner to share
the duty. The imam also leads all other special prayers, such as for funerals, prayers for rain,
prayers during an eclipse, and more.
What other role does an imam serve in the community?
In addition to being a prayer leader, the imam may also serve as a member of the larger
leadership team in a Muslim community. As a respected member of the community, the
imam's counseling may be sought in personal or religious issues. One may ask him for
spiritual advice, help with a family issue, or in other times of need. The imam may be involved
in visiting the sick, engaging in inter-faith service programs, officiating marriages, and
organizing educational gatherings in the mosque. In modern times, the imam is increasingly in
a position to educate and reform youth away from radical or extremist viewpoints. Imams
reach out to youth, inspire them in peaceful pursuits, and teach them the correct
understanding of Islam -- in the hopes that they will not fall prey to misguided teachings and
resort to violence.
Cont
Friday, 26 June 2015
HOW TO PURIFY THE INTENTION WHEN SEEKING KNOWLEDGE
How to Purify the Intention when Seeking Knowledge
With regards to how to attain ikhlaas(having purity of intention and sincerity) in your
seeking knowledge, Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen rahimahullaah states:
So if someone says to you: How does ikhlaas in seeking knowledge come about? It comes
about through a (number) of matters:
1 – It is that in doing that (seeking of knowledge), you have as your intention that you are
complying with Allaah’s command because Allaah, the Most High, commanded with that
(seeking of knowledge).
So He said:
Have knowledge that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah. And seek
forgiveness for your sin.
Soorah Muhammad (47) aayah 19 And he sall Allaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam encouraged (us)
upon knowledge; and encouraging upon a matter necessitates loving it and being pleased
with it and commanding with it.
2 – It is that in doing that, you intend to preserve the Sharee’ah of Allaah, because
preserving the Sharee’ah of Allaah occurs through learning, and it comes about through
preserving (it) in the chests (of people), and it comes about through writing down, writing
down the books.
3 – It is that in doing that, you intend to protect the Sharee’ah and defend it, because were it
not for the people of knowledge, then the Sharee’ah would not have been protected and no
one would have defended it. And therefore you find, for example, Shaykh ul Islaam ibn
Taymiyyah and other than him from the people of knowledge who resisted and blocked the
people of innovation and clarified the false and futile nature of their innovations, we see that
they (these people of knowledge) attained a great deal of good.
4 – It is that in doing that, your intention is to be following the Sharee’ah of Muhammad sall
Allaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam because you are not able to follow his Sharee’ah until you have
knowledge of this Sharee’ah.
The author (Imaam Al-Barbahaaree) rahimahullaah said:
And know, may Allaah have mercy upon you that knowledge is not in being able to narrate
much and in having many books, rather the scholar is the one who follows the knowledge
and the sunnahs (in some versions: the Book and the Sunnah) even if his knowledge and
his books are limited and whoever opposes the Book and the Sunnah then he is a person
of innovation, even if he narrates much and has many books.
Shaykh Saalih Al-Fowzaan hafizahullaah said in explanation of this point
His saying:
And know, may Allaah have mercy upon you, that knowledge is not in being able to narrate
much and in having many books.
`Ilm (knowledge) is not in knowing many things and reading much and having many
books. Knowledge is only through having fiqh (knowledge and understanding) and
through ittibaa’ (following) and in ‘amal (action upon it), even if the person has only a little
knowledge. So a small amount of knowledge along with righteous action and with correct
understanding of the religion is something that is much. Whereas having a lot of knowledge
with little action and without following, there is no benefit in it.
So the Jews have amongst them people of knowledge, they have rabbis and yet despite this
their knowledge does not benefit them and they became those upon whom there is anger
because they disobeyed Allaah upon knowledge and insight, so what is intended is not to
have a large amount of knowledge and to have read many things, what is intended is
action. This is what is intended by knowledge and this is the path of those upon whom
Allaah has bestowed his favour. Just as He the Most High said (the explanation of which is),
‘Guide us upon the straight path, the path of those upon whom You have bestowed Your
favour’ and they are the people of knowledge and action. ‘Not the path of those whom
You are angry with’ and they are those who possess knowledge without action. ‘Nor the
path of those who are astray’ [Sooratul-Faatihah, verses 6-7] and they are those who act
without knowledge.
So therefore knowledge will not benefit unless it is with action and action will not benefit
unless it is along with knowledge. So knowledge and action must be combined and this is
the path of those who have favour bestowed upon them.
His saying: And rather the scholar is just the one who follows (applies) the knowledge and
the sunnahs even if he only has a small amount of knowledge and of books. The scholar is
only the one who follows the Book and the sunnahs even if he has only acquired a small
amount of knowledge, contrary to the case of someone who has acquired a great deal of
knowledge or who has many and various books, however he does not act, then this there is
no benefit in it. Knowledge becomes much and it increases and it grows along with
righteous deeds. As for knowledge without action then it is stripped of blessing and it will
not remain.
And the people of knowledge are of two categories:
The first one: those who are scholars with the tongue only
The second one: those who are scholars with the tongue and with the heart and they are
the people of al-khashyah (fear of Allaah). He the Most High said (the explanation of which
is),
‘It is only those who have knowledge amongst His servants who fear Allaah’ [Soorah
Faatir, verse 28].
So having knowledge and fear (of Allaah), these two are al-`ilmus-saheeh , correct
knowledge. As for just knowledge of the tongue without fear of Allaah then this is the
knowledge of the hypocrites, we ask Allaah for safety and security…
…Allaah the Most High said with regard to the Jews (the explanation of which is),
‘The example of those who were given the duty of acting upon the Tawraat and then they
did not act upon it is just like the example of a donkey carrying volumes of
books.’ [Sooratul-Jumu’ah, verse 5].
So the person who has a huge library but he abandons action or he is an innovator, his
example is that of a donkey which carries books and does not benefit from them.
Taken from Shaykh Saalih Al-Fawzaan’s explanation of Sharhus-Sunnah of Imaam Al-
Barbahaaree, translated by Aboo Talhah Daawood Burbank on 28th February 2011 during
his Monday ‘aqeedah lesson.
With regards to the students of knowledge leaving off argumentation and accepting the
Truth when it comes to them, Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen rahimahullaah
states:
And likewise (from the most important of matters) also is abandonment of argumentation
and disputing because argumentation and disputing are a door to blocking the correct path.
For argumentation and disputing incite a person to speak and try to support himself only;
even if the Truth is made clear to him, you will find him either rejecting it or else twisting it in
a detestable manner, seeking to support himself and trying to force his opponent to take his
statement.
So if you see argumentation and disputing from your brother, in that the Truth (in
that matter) is something clear but he does not follow it, then flee from him as you
would flee from a lion. And say, “I don’t have anything except this (information which I have
told you)” and leave him…
So from those matters of importance for the student of knowledge is that he leave off
argumentation and disputing and that he leave off those ideas which come to his mind;
leave these matters and don’t be obstinate. Make your knowledge be something simple and
easy – meaning (like) the Arab who came, he came upon his camel and asked the Prophet
sall Allaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam about matters of the Religion, then he (the Arab) departed
without arguing because he had nothing with him except tasleem (submission).
As for arguing and disputing and quarreling then this is something that harms the person.
And Allah knows best!
(Sharh hilyah taalib il ‘ilm p19 to 20 of Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen
rahimahullaah )
Translated by Aboo ‘Abdir-Rahmaan Naasir ibn Najam
With regards to how to attain ikhlaas(having purity of intention and sincerity) in your
seeking knowledge, Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen rahimahullaah states:
So if someone says to you: How does ikhlaas in seeking knowledge come about? It comes
about through a (number) of matters:
1 – It is that in doing that (seeking of knowledge), you have as your intention that you are
complying with Allaah’s command because Allaah, the Most High, commanded with that
(seeking of knowledge).
So He said:
Have knowledge that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah. And seek
forgiveness for your sin.
Soorah Muhammad (47) aayah 19 And he sall Allaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam encouraged (us)
upon knowledge; and encouraging upon a matter necessitates loving it and being pleased
with it and commanding with it.
2 – It is that in doing that, you intend to preserve the Sharee’ah of Allaah, because
preserving the Sharee’ah of Allaah occurs through learning, and it comes about through
preserving (it) in the chests (of people), and it comes about through writing down, writing
down the books.
3 – It is that in doing that, you intend to protect the Sharee’ah and defend it, because were it
not for the people of knowledge, then the Sharee’ah would not have been protected and no
one would have defended it. And therefore you find, for example, Shaykh ul Islaam ibn
Taymiyyah and other than him from the people of knowledge who resisted and blocked the
people of innovation and clarified the false and futile nature of their innovations, we see that
they (these people of knowledge) attained a great deal of good.
4 – It is that in doing that, your intention is to be following the Sharee’ah of Muhammad sall
Allaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam because you are not able to follow his Sharee’ah until you have
knowledge of this Sharee’ah.
The author (Imaam Al-Barbahaaree) rahimahullaah said:
And know, may Allaah have mercy upon you that knowledge is not in being able to narrate
much and in having many books, rather the scholar is the one who follows the knowledge
and the sunnahs (in some versions: the Book and the Sunnah) even if his knowledge and
his books are limited and whoever opposes the Book and the Sunnah then he is a person
of innovation, even if he narrates much and has many books.
Shaykh Saalih Al-Fowzaan hafizahullaah said in explanation of this point
His saying:
And know, may Allaah have mercy upon you, that knowledge is not in being able to narrate
much and in having many books.
`Ilm (knowledge) is not in knowing many things and reading much and having many
books. Knowledge is only through having fiqh (knowledge and understanding) and
through ittibaa’ (following) and in ‘amal (action upon it), even if the person has only a little
knowledge. So a small amount of knowledge along with righteous action and with correct
understanding of the religion is something that is much. Whereas having a lot of knowledge
with little action and without following, there is no benefit in it.
So the Jews have amongst them people of knowledge, they have rabbis and yet despite this
their knowledge does not benefit them and they became those upon whom there is anger
because they disobeyed Allaah upon knowledge and insight, so what is intended is not to
have a large amount of knowledge and to have read many things, what is intended is
action. This is what is intended by knowledge and this is the path of those upon whom
Allaah has bestowed his favour. Just as He the Most High said (the explanation of which is),
‘Guide us upon the straight path, the path of those upon whom You have bestowed Your
favour’ and they are the people of knowledge and action. ‘Not the path of those whom
You are angry with’ and they are those who possess knowledge without action. ‘Nor the
path of those who are astray’ [Sooratul-Faatihah, verses 6-7] and they are those who act
without knowledge.
So therefore knowledge will not benefit unless it is with action and action will not benefit
unless it is along with knowledge. So knowledge and action must be combined and this is
the path of those who have favour bestowed upon them.
His saying: And rather the scholar is just the one who follows (applies) the knowledge and
the sunnahs even if he only has a small amount of knowledge and of books. The scholar is
only the one who follows the Book and the sunnahs even if he has only acquired a small
amount of knowledge, contrary to the case of someone who has acquired a great deal of
knowledge or who has many and various books, however he does not act, then this there is
no benefit in it. Knowledge becomes much and it increases and it grows along with
righteous deeds. As for knowledge without action then it is stripped of blessing and it will
not remain.
And the people of knowledge are of two categories:
The first one: those who are scholars with the tongue only
The second one: those who are scholars with the tongue and with the heart and they are
the people of al-khashyah (fear of Allaah). He the Most High said (the explanation of which
is),
‘It is only those who have knowledge amongst His servants who fear Allaah’ [Soorah
Faatir, verse 28].
So having knowledge and fear (of Allaah), these two are al-`ilmus-saheeh , correct
knowledge. As for just knowledge of the tongue without fear of Allaah then this is the
knowledge of the hypocrites, we ask Allaah for safety and security…
…Allaah the Most High said with regard to the Jews (the explanation of which is),
‘The example of those who were given the duty of acting upon the Tawraat and then they
did not act upon it is just like the example of a donkey carrying volumes of
books.’ [Sooratul-Jumu’ah, verse 5].
So the person who has a huge library but he abandons action or he is an innovator, his
example is that of a donkey which carries books and does not benefit from them.
Taken from Shaykh Saalih Al-Fawzaan’s explanation of Sharhus-Sunnah of Imaam Al-
Barbahaaree, translated by Aboo Talhah Daawood Burbank on 28th February 2011 during
his Monday ‘aqeedah lesson.
With regards to the students of knowledge leaving off argumentation and accepting the
Truth when it comes to them, Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen rahimahullaah
states:
And likewise (from the most important of matters) also is abandonment of argumentation
and disputing because argumentation and disputing are a door to blocking the correct path.
For argumentation and disputing incite a person to speak and try to support himself only;
even if the Truth is made clear to him, you will find him either rejecting it or else twisting it in
a detestable manner, seeking to support himself and trying to force his opponent to take his
statement.
So if you see argumentation and disputing from your brother, in that the Truth (in
that matter) is something clear but he does not follow it, then flee from him as you
would flee from a lion. And say, “I don’t have anything except this (information which I have
told you)” and leave him…
So from those matters of importance for the student of knowledge is that he leave off
argumentation and disputing and that he leave off those ideas which come to his mind;
leave these matters and don’t be obstinate. Make your knowledge be something simple and
easy – meaning (like) the Arab who came, he came upon his camel and asked the Prophet
sall Allaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam about matters of the Religion, then he (the Arab) departed
without arguing because he had nothing with him except tasleem (submission).
As for arguing and disputing and quarreling then this is something that harms the person.
And Allah knows best!
(Sharh hilyah taalib il ‘ilm p19 to 20 of Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen
rahimahullaah )
Translated by Aboo ‘Abdir-Rahmaan Naasir ibn Najam
VIEW OF ISLAM ON MARRIAGE CEREMONY
[image: In The name of Allah,The Most Merciful,The Most gracious] Wedding
Ceremony In Islam – Customs, Rituals & Traditions *Written By Prinxess *IM*
< http://www.facebook.com/Prnxess.IM >*
Prophet Muhammad (peace be Upon Him) said:
*‘The worst of the feasts are those marriage feasts to which the rich are
invited and the poor are left out”. (Mishkat)*
It is recommended that Muslims attend marriage ceremonies and marriage
feasts upon invitation. Prophet Muhammad (peace be Upon Him) said:
*“…and he who refuses to accept an invitation to a marriage feast, verily
disobeys Allah and His Prophet”. (Ahmad & Abu Dawood)*
Marriage (nikah) is a solemn and sacred social contract between bride and
groom. This contract is a strong covenant (mithaqun Ghalithun) as expressed
in Quran 4:21). The marriage contract in Islam is not a sacrament. It is
revocable.
Both parties mutually agree and enter into this contract. Both bride and
groom have the liberty to define various terms and conditions of their
liking and make them a part of this contract.
Mahr
The marriage-gift (Mahr) is a divine injunction. The giving of mahr to the
bride by the groom is an essential part of the contract.
*‘And give the women (on marriage) their mahr as a (nikah) free gift”
(Quran 4:4)*
Mahr is a token commitment of the husband’s responsibility and may be paid
in cash, property or movable objects to the bride herself. The amount of
mahr is not legally specified, however, moderation according to the
existing social norm is recommended. The mahr may be paid immediately to
the bride at the time of marriage, or deferred to a later date, or a
combination of both. The deferred mahr however, falls due in case of death
or divorce.
Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
*“Go and look for something even if it is a ring of iron.” Narrated by
al-Bukhaari (5121) and Muslim (1425).*
It is mustahabb to make the mahr simple and easy, because the Prophet
(peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
*“The best of dowries is the simplest.” *Narrated by al-Haakim and
al-Bayhaqi and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ (3279).
And he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: *“The best of
marriage is the simplest.”* Narrated by Ibn Hibbaan and classed as saheeh
by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ (3300).
Jaheez – Dowry Taking from Girl’s Father
it is not permissible to force the wife or her guardian to provide it, but
if the wife takes it and then gives some of it to her husband or gives some
of her wealth to him, it is permissible to her to do that, because Allah
says (interpretation of the meaning):
* “but if they, of their own good pleasure, remit any part of it to you,
take it, and enjoy it without fear of any harm (as Allaah has made it
lawful)”[al-Nisa’ 4:4].*
Allah has made the man the protector and maintainer of the woman, and one
of the reasons for that is that he spends on her. Allah says
(interpretation of the meaning):
* “Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allaah has made
one of them to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them)
from their means” [al-Nisa’ 4:34].*
Thus, asking about dowry and demanding high from girl’s side is one of the
worse act i.e Dis-obeying Allah and rejecting the sunnah of Prophet
Muhammad peace be upon him. However its so sad, today we see in our islamic
society many husband dislikes and torture their wife only for the reason of
not getting the dowry from her. Such husbands or such In laws should fear
Allah!
Sermon
The assembly of nikah is addressed with a marriage sermon
(khutba-tun-nikah) by the Muslim officiating the marriage. In marriage
societies, customarily, a state appointed Muslim judge (Qadi) officiates
the nikah ceremony and keeps the record of the marriage contract. However
any trust worthy practicing Muslim can conduct the nikah ceremony, as Islam
does not advocate priesthood. The documents of marriage
contract/certificate are filed with the mosque (masjid) and local
government for record.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) made it his tradition (sunnah) to have
marriage sermon delivered in the assembly to solemnize the marriage. The
sermon invites the bride and the groom, as well as the participating guests
in the assembly to a life of piety, mutual love, kindness, and social
responsibility.
The Khutbah-tun-Nikah begins with the praise of Allah. His help and
guidance is sought. The Muslim confession of faith that
‘There is none worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is His servant
and messenger” is declared. The three Quranic verses (Quran 4:1, 3:102,
33:70-71) and one Prophetic saying (hadith) form the main text of the
marriage.
This hadith is:
*‘By Allah! Among all of you I am the most God-fearing, and among you all,
I am the supermost to save myself from the wrath of Allah, yet my state is
that I observe prayer and sleep too. I observe fast and suspend observing
them; I marry woman also. And he who turns away from my Sunnah has no
relation with me”. (Bukhari)*
The Muslim officiating the marriage ceremony concludes the ceremony with
prayer (Dua) for bride, groom, their respective families, the local Muslim
community, and the Muslim community at large (Ummah)
*Marriage (nikah) is considered as an act of worship (ibadah). It is
virtuous to conduct it in a Mosque keeping the ceremony simple. The
marriage ceremony is a social as well as a religious activity. Islam
advocates simplicity in ceremonies and celebrations.*
Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be upon Him) considered simple weddings the best
weddings:
*‘The best wedding is that upon which the least trouble and expense is
bestowed”. (Mishkat)*
Primary Requirements
1. Mutual agreement (Ijab-O-Qubul) by the bride and the groom
2. Two adult and sane witnesses
3. Mahr (marriage-gift) to be paid by the groom to the bride either
immediately (muajjal) or deferred (muakhkhar), or a combination of both
Secondary Requirements
1. Legal guardian (wakeel) representing the bride
2. Written marriage contract (“Aqd-Nikah) signed by the bride and the
groom and witnesses by two adult and sane witnesses
3. Qadi (State appointed Muslim judge) or Ma’zoon (a responsible person
officiating the marriage ceremony)
4. Khutba-tun-Nikah to solemnize the marriage
The Marriage Banquet (Walima)
After the consummation of the marriage, the groom holds a banquet called a
walima. The relatives, neighbors, and friends are invited in order to make
them aware of the marriage. Both rich and poor of the family and community
are invited to the marriage feasts.
Keep The Marriage Simplest
Marriage is a major step in one’s life. It’s a matter of great
responsibility that should by no mean be taken lightly. However, it
shouldn’t be complicated to the point if one doesn’t have enough cash to
hold an elaborate ceremony with hundreds of guests, one can’t get married.
Quite simply, a marriage in Islam is solemnized by a nikah (marriage
contract) and a waleemah (marriage feast) that follows once the marriage
has been consummated.
The nikah constitutes of a proposal from one party (eejab) and acceptance
from another (qubool) in the presence of witnesses. The walimah is simply a
dinner to celebrate the marriage, since marriage is, after all, a joyous
occasion.
The nikah can be held at the local masjid or at home, while the walimah can
be anywhere: one’s apartment, backyard, or basement, the local masjid, a
park, a restaurant, a community center, or anywhere else.
As well, on the occasions of nikah and walimah, long speeches and an
elaborate program are not required. Remember, simple is beautiful!
Nowadays, we seem to have been so caught up in rituals and customs that we
tend to waste enormous amounts of money and time on things that simply
aren’t needed. Nikah and walimah are both sunnahs (traditions) of the
Prophet Muhammad (SAW), so doesn’t it make sense to try to commemorate
these occasions in the same fashion as he did?
Anas (RA) describes one of the walimahs hosted by the Prophet (SAW):
*“The Prophet stayed for three days at a place between Khaibar and Medina,
and there he consummated his marriage with Safiyya bint Huyay (RA). I
invited the Muslims to a banquet which included neither meat nor bread. The
Prophet (SAW) ordered for the leather dining sheets to be spread, and then
dates, dried yogurt and butter were provided over it, and that was the
Walima (banquet) of the Prophet (SAW).” (Reported by Bukhari)*
In another report, Anas (RA) says that the Prophet (SAW)
*“gave a wedding banquet with Hais (a sort of sweet dish made from butter,
cheese and dates).” (Reported by Bukhari)*
There is nothing wrong with having an elaborate ceremony in a fancy banquet
hall and full-course meal prepared by a caterer, but the fact of the matter
is that neither of these are requirements for a successful marriage
ceremony. If one wishes to hold the ceremony in a banquet hall with a
full-course meal, that’s perfectly fine, but it shouldn’t be taken as a
requirement.
I’m sure many of us loan large sums of money just so we can host fancy
receptions for our weddings. Or even if we spend extravagant amounts of our
own money, it’s sad because there are so many better uses for our
hard-earned money. After all, the amount of money spent on the ceremony has
no positive effect on the life of the couple.
The Prophet (SAW) is reported to have said:
*“The marriage which is most greatly blessed is the one which is the
lightest in burden [expense]. However, if people are well catered for,
without extravagance and show, there is no problem with that
either.” (Reported by Bayhaqi)*
For sure, marriage an occasion to celebrate, but why waste enormous amounts
of money on a celebration? It’s definitely not how our beloved Prophet
Muhammad (SAW) celebrated. In fact, wasting Allah’s bounties is something
Allah has warned us against:
*“But waste not by excess: for Allah loves not the wasters.”(Quran, 6:141)*
It can be difficult to swim against the tide of fancy and extravagant
marriages, but surely, it’s worth swimming against the tides that go
against Allah’s command and the example set by the Prophet (SAW).
Let’s save all that money and keep it for better uses. That money is sure
to be in demand once the honeymoon is over and the actual daily routine
sets in. If we do that with the right intention, we’ll end up saving money
and at the same time, we’ll be adding to our good-deed account as well. After
all, who can’t use some extra cash, some extra good deeds, and a greatly
blessed marriage (since the most greatly blessed marriage is the one that
lightest in expense)?
*Allah subahanwa’tala said in Quran, Follow me and My Messanger if you love
me, Allah will love you too! Why are we so hesitant and reluctant to follow
what the greatest personality of this universe did?! Rather we blindly
follow the stupid and pathetic traditions in our wedding ceremonies! The
acts of Jahliya, the acts of Shamelessness and the acts which leads to
fitnah can never make your marriage successful and blessed! Dont obey your
culture or your desires, dont follow your society Rather obey and follow
the Golden path shown by Allah and His prophet peace be upon him*
*:: For More Articles Related to marriage Click Here ::
< https://islamgreatreligion.wordpress.com/2011/03/15/marriage-in-islam-purpose-and-
virtues-special-article/ >*
Ceremony In Islam – Customs, Rituals & Traditions *Written By Prinxess *IM*
< http://www.facebook.com/Prnxess.IM >*
Prophet Muhammad (peace be Upon Him) said:
*‘The worst of the feasts are those marriage feasts to which the rich are
invited and the poor are left out”. (Mishkat)*
It is recommended that Muslims attend marriage ceremonies and marriage
feasts upon invitation. Prophet Muhammad (peace be Upon Him) said:
*“…and he who refuses to accept an invitation to a marriage feast, verily
disobeys Allah and His Prophet”. (Ahmad & Abu Dawood)*
Marriage (nikah) is a solemn and sacred social contract between bride and
groom. This contract is a strong covenant (mithaqun Ghalithun) as expressed
in Quran 4:21). The marriage contract in Islam is not a sacrament. It is
revocable.
Both parties mutually agree and enter into this contract. Both bride and
groom have the liberty to define various terms and conditions of their
liking and make them a part of this contract.
Mahr
The marriage-gift (Mahr) is a divine injunction. The giving of mahr to the
bride by the groom is an essential part of the contract.
*‘And give the women (on marriage) their mahr as a (nikah) free gift”
(Quran 4:4)*
Mahr is a token commitment of the husband’s responsibility and may be paid
in cash, property or movable objects to the bride herself. The amount of
mahr is not legally specified, however, moderation according to the
existing social norm is recommended. The mahr may be paid immediately to
the bride at the time of marriage, or deferred to a later date, or a
combination of both. The deferred mahr however, falls due in case of death
or divorce.
Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
*“Go and look for something even if it is a ring of iron.” Narrated by
al-Bukhaari (5121) and Muslim (1425).*
It is mustahabb to make the mahr simple and easy, because the Prophet
(peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
*“The best of dowries is the simplest.” *Narrated by al-Haakim and
al-Bayhaqi and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ (3279).
And he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: *“The best of
marriage is the simplest.”* Narrated by Ibn Hibbaan and classed as saheeh
by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ (3300).
Jaheez – Dowry Taking from Girl’s Father
it is not permissible to force the wife or her guardian to provide it, but
if the wife takes it and then gives some of it to her husband or gives some
of her wealth to him, it is permissible to her to do that, because Allah
says (interpretation of the meaning):
* “but if they, of their own good pleasure, remit any part of it to you,
take it, and enjoy it without fear of any harm (as Allaah has made it
lawful)”[al-Nisa’ 4:4].*
Allah has made the man the protector and maintainer of the woman, and one
of the reasons for that is that he spends on her. Allah says
(interpretation of the meaning):
* “Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allaah has made
one of them to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them)
from their means” [al-Nisa’ 4:34].*
Thus, asking about dowry and demanding high from girl’s side is one of the
worse act i.e Dis-obeying Allah and rejecting the sunnah of Prophet
Muhammad peace be upon him. However its so sad, today we see in our islamic
society many husband dislikes and torture their wife only for the reason of
not getting the dowry from her. Such husbands or such In laws should fear
Allah!
Sermon
The assembly of nikah is addressed with a marriage sermon
(khutba-tun-nikah) by the Muslim officiating the marriage. In marriage
societies, customarily, a state appointed Muslim judge (Qadi) officiates
the nikah ceremony and keeps the record of the marriage contract. However
any trust worthy practicing Muslim can conduct the nikah ceremony, as Islam
does not advocate priesthood. The documents of marriage
contract/certificate are filed with the mosque (masjid) and local
government for record.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) made it his tradition (sunnah) to have
marriage sermon delivered in the assembly to solemnize the marriage. The
sermon invites the bride and the groom, as well as the participating guests
in the assembly to a life of piety, mutual love, kindness, and social
responsibility.
The Khutbah-tun-Nikah begins with the praise of Allah. His help and
guidance is sought. The Muslim confession of faith that
‘There is none worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is His servant
and messenger” is declared. The three Quranic verses (Quran 4:1, 3:102,
33:70-71) and one Prophetic saying (hadith) form the main text of the
marriage.
This hadith is:
*‘By Allah! Among all of you I am the most God-fearing, and among you all,
I am the supermost to save myself from the wrath of Allah, yet my state is
that I observe prayer and sleep too. I observe fast and suspend observing
them; I marry woman also. And he who turns away from my Sunnah has no
relation with me”. (Bukhari)*
The Muslim officiating the marriage ceremony concludes the ceremony with
prayer (Dua) for bride, groom, their respective families, the local Muslim
community, and the Muslim community at large (Ummah)
*Marriage (nikah) is considered as an act of worship (ibadah). It is
virtuous to conduct it in a Mosque keeping the ceremony simple. The
marriage ceremony is a social as well as a religious activity. Islam
advocates simplicity in ceremonies and celebrations.*
Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be upon Him) considered simple weddings the best
weddings:
*‘The best wedding is that upon which the least trouble and expense is
bestowed”. (Mishkat)*
Primary Requirements
1. Mutual agreement (Ijab-O-Qubul) by the bride and the groom
2. Two adult and sane witnesses
3. Mahr (marriage-gift) to be paid by the groom to the bride either
immediately (muajjal) or deferred (muakhkhar), or a combination of both
Secondary Requirements
1. Legal guardian (wakeel) representing the bride
2. Written marriage contract (“Aqd-Nikah) signed by the bride and the
groom and witnesses by two adult and sane witnesses
3. Qadi (State appointed Muslim judge) or Ma’zoon (a responsible person
officiating the marriage ceremony)
4. Khutba-tun-Nikah to solemnize the marriage
The Marriage Banquet (Walima)
After the consummation of the marriage, the groom holds a banquet called a
walima. The relatives, neighbors, and friends are invited in order to make
them aware of the marriage. Both rich and poor of the family and community
are invited to the marriage feasts.
Keep The Marriage Simplest
Marriage is a major step in one’s life. It’s a matter of great
responsibility that should by no mean be taken lightly. However, it
shouldn’t be complicated to the point if one doesn’t have enough cash to
hold an elaborate ceremony with hundreds of guests, one can’t get married.
Quite simply, a marriage in Islam is solemnized by a nikah (marriage
contract) and a waleemah (marriage feast) that follows once the marriage
has been consummated.
The nikah constitutes of a proposal from one party (eejab) and acceptance
from another (qubool) in the presence of witnesses. The walimah is simply a
dinner to celebrate the marriage, since marriage is, after all, a joyous
occasion.
The nikah can be held at the local masjid or at home, while the walimah can
be anywhere: one’s apartment, backyard, or basement, the local masjid, a
park, a restaurant, a community center, or anywhere else.
As well, on the occasions of nikah and walimah, long speeches and an
elaborate program are not required. Remember, simple is beautiful!
Nowadays, we seem to have been so caught up in rituals and customs that we
tend to waste enormous amounts of money and time on things that simply
aren’t needed. Nikah and walimah are both sunnahs (traditions) of the
Prophet Muhammad (SAW), so doesn’t it make sense to try to commemorate
these occasions in the same fashion as he did?
Anas (RA) describes one of the walimahs hosted by the Prophet (SAW):
*“The Prophet stayed for three days at a place between Khaibar and Medina,
and there he consummated his marriage with Safiyya bint Huyay (RA). I
invited the Muslims to a banquet which included neither meat nor bread. The
Prophet (SAW) ordered for the leather dining sheets to be spread, and then
dates, dried yogurt and butter were provided over it, and that was the
Walima (banquet) of the Prophet (SAW).” (Reported by Bukhari)*
In another report, Anas (RA) says that the Prophet (SAW)
*“gave a wedding banquet with Hais (a sort of sweet dish made from butter,
cheese and dates).” (Reported by Bukhari)*
There is nothing wrong with having an elaborate ceremony in a fancy banquet
hall and full-course meal prepared by a caterer, but the fact of the matter
is that neither of these are requirements for a successful marriage
ceremony. If one wishes to hold the ceremony in a banquet hall with a
full-course meal, that’s perfectly fine, but it shouldn’t be taken as a
requirement.
I’m sure many of us loan large sums of money just so we can host fancy
receptions for our weddings. Or even if we spend extravagant amounts of our
own money, it’s sad because there are so many better uses for our
hard-earned money. After all, the amount of money spent on the ceremony has
no positive effect on the life of the couple.
The Prophet (SAW) is reported to have said:
*“The marriage which is most greatly blessed is the one which is the
lightest in burden [expense]. However, if people are well catered for,
without extravagance and show, there is no problem with that
either.” (Reported by Bayhaqi)*
For sure, marriage an occasion to celebrate, but why waste enormous amounts
of money on a celebration? It’s definitely not how our beloved Prophet
Muhammad (SAW) celebrated. In fact, wasting Allah’s bounties is something
Allah has warned us against:
*“But waste not by excess: for Allah loves not the wasters.”(Quran, 6:141)*
It can be difficult to swim against the tide of fancy and extravagant
marriages, but surely, it’s worth swimming against the tides that go
against Allah’s command and the example set by the Prophet (SAW).
Let’s save all that money and keep it for better uses. That money is sure
to be in demand once the honeymoon is over and the actual daily routine
sets in. If we do that with the right intention, we’ll end up saving money
and at the same time, we’ll be adding to our good-deed account as well. After
all, who can’t use some extra cash, some extra good deeds, and a greatly
blessed marriage (since the most greatly blessed marriage is the one that
lightest in expense)?
*Allah subahanwa’tala said in Quran, Follow me and My Messanger if you love
me, Allah will love you too! Why are we so hesitant and reluctant to follow
what the greatest personality of this universe did?! Rather we blindly
follow the stupid and pathetic traditions in our wedding ceremonies! The
acts of Jahliya, the acts of Shamelessness and the acts which leads to
fitnah can never make your marriage successful and blessed! Dont obey your
culture or your desires, dont follow your society Rather obey and follow
the Golden path shown by Allah and His prophet peace be upon him*
*:: For More Articles Related to marriage Click Here ::
< https://islamgreatreligion.wordpress.com/2011/03/15/marriage-in-islam-purpose-and-
virtues-special-article/ >*
Monday, 22 June 2015
WHO DO MUSLIMS WORSHIP?
Who Do Muslims Worship?
The submission of man to his Creator is the essence of Islam. The word "Islam" literally means, "to submit" or "to surrender." The real question one should ask is: "submit and surrender" to whom? Muslims submit and surrender their will and desires to the will and the laws of the Creator. This is what "Islam" truly means. By referring to, The Creator", Muslims are talking about "Allah."
Allah is the Creator of all that is in the heavens and the earth. In Islam, Allah is the True and Only Creator, and only he deserves to be worshipped. Nothing else is worthy of worship; not stones, statues, crosses, the sun, the moon, stars, temples, animals, Prophets (from any religion), messengers, saints, priests, movie stars, musicians, athletes, or religious scholars. All of those are created beings, and are not worthy of worship in Islam. In fact, doing that is to associate partners with Allah, and it is the only sin that would never be forgiven on the Day of Judgment.
Allah is the Arabic word for God. This is the way all Arab Jews, Christians and Muslims call God. Allah is the person-al name of God, which He gave to Himself in the Qur'an. The Qur'an is the last and final revelation from Allah to mankind, that Allah gave to Prophet Muhammad, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, through the Angel Gabriel. The name "Allah" is unique. It has no feminine or masculine form unlike 'god' or 'goddess'). It also has no plural form (unlike 'gods' and goddesses'). The name "Allah" simply means 'The One and Only True God."
The name "Allah" was not a name invented by the Arabs. It has been the name of God since the beginning of time. In the Torah, we can easily find the name that God gave Himself, "Elah", or in some cases, "Eloh" (Elohim - [im] being a form of respect in the Hebrew language). It was also used in the Aramaic language, which was the language spoken by our beloved Prophet Jesus, alayhes salam.
The Creator, Allah, has perfect attributes. He is the First; there was none before Him, and He is the Last. Allah is the Everliving; everything will end in death, except Him. He is the Protecting Friend and to Him is the Final Return, where everything will be dealt with and judged in the Most Perfect and Just way. Muslims are confident of the Just and Perfect Judgment of Allah, The Creator, because He tells us repeatedly in the Qur'an that He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Gracious, Most Merciful, and perfectly just.
Allah also tells us in the Qur'an, that He does not beget, nor is He begotten. Begetting offspring, eating and sleeping are all characteristics of created things. Compare this, for example, to the Biblical ideas of God resting on the seventh day of creation, and begetting a son.
Muslims believe that Allah does not have the characteristics of people, animals or any created things. Muslims also believe that Allah is All- Powerful and able to do-all things, He merely says to it "Be" and it is. Such as the case of the miraculous birth of Prophet Jesus, alayhes salam, and when Allah created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them.
The most important point about Islamic worship is to understand that Muslims worship One God only. This pure and simple message of Islam has remained unchanged since the first man walked on earth. From the Prophet Moses, alayhes salam, calling out to his people, "Hear 'O Israel.-The Lord our God is One" [Deuteronomy 6:4 (English-KJV)]; to Prophet Jesus, alayhes salam, teaching and reprimanding his disciples, "Why does thou callest me good? There is none good but one, that is, God" [Matthew 19:17; Mark 10:18; Luke 18:19 (English-KJV)J; to the last messenger of monotheism who came with the final revelation from God proclaiming, "Your God is One God, there is none who has the right to be worshipped but He, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful" [2:163].
Allah, The One. This is whom over one-billion Muslims across the world pray to five times each day.
The declaration of faith for one who wants to embrace Islam is:"Ashadu Alla Ilaha Illallah waashhadu anna Muhammadan rasoolullah", whi
The submission of man to his Creator is the essence of Islam. The word "Islam" literally means, "to submit" or "to surrender." The real question one should ask is: "submit and surrender" to whom? Muslims submit and surrender their will and desires to the will and the laws of the Creator. This is what "Islam" truly means. By referring to, The Creator", Muslims are talking about "Allah."
Allah is the Creator of all that is in the heavens and the earth. In Islam, Allah is the True and Only Creator, and only he deserves to be worshipped. Nothing else is worthy of worship; not stones, statues, crosses, the sun, the moon, stars, temples, animals, Prophets (from any religion), messengers, saints, priests, movie stars, musicians, athletes, or religious scholars. All of those are created beings, and are not worthy of worship in Islam. In fact, doing that is to associate partners with Allah, and it is the only sin that would never be forgiven on the Day of Judgment.
Allah is the Arabic word for God. This is the way all Arab Jews, Christians and Muslims call God. Allah is the person-al name of God, which He gave to Himself in the Qur'an. The Qur'an is the last and final revelation from Allah to mankind, that Allah gave to Prophet Muhammad, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, through the Angel Gabriel. The name "Allah" is unique. It has no feminine or masculine form unlike 'god' or 'goddess'). It also has no plural form (unlike 'gods' and goddesses'). The name "Allah" simply means 'The One and Only True God."
The name "Allah" was not a name invented by the Arabs. It has been the name of God since the beginning of time. In the Torah, we can easily find the name that God gave Himself, "Elah", or in some cases, "Eloh" (Elohim - [im] being a form of respect in the Hebrew language). It was also used in the Aramaic language, which was the language spoken by our beloved Prophet Jesus, alayhes salam.
The Creator, Allah, has perfect attributes. He is the First; there was none before Him, and He is the Last. Allah is the Everliving; everything will end in death, except Him. He is the Protecting Friend and to Him is the Final Return, where everything will be dealt with and judged in the Most Perfect and Just way. Muslims are confident of the Just and Perfect Judgment of Allah, The Creator, because He tells us repeatedly in the Qur'an that He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Gracious, Most Merciful, and perfectly just.
Allah also tells us in the Qur'an, that He does not beget, nor is He begotten. Begetting offspring, eating and sleeping are all characteristics of created things. Compare this, for example, to the Biblical ideas of God resting on the seventh day of creation, and begetting a son.
Muslims believe that Allah does not have the characteristics of people, animals or any created things. Muslims also believe that Allah is All- Powerful and able to do-all things, He merely says to it "Be" and it is. Such as the case of the miraculous birth of Prophet Jesus, alayhes salam, and when Allah created the heavens and the earth and all that is in them.
The most important point about Islamic worship is to understand that Muslims worship One God only. This pure and simple message of Islam has remained unchanged since the first man walked on earth. From the Prophet Moses, alayhes salam, calling out to his people, "Hear 'O Israel.-The Lord our God is One" [Deuteronomy 6:4 (English-KJV)]; to Prophet Jesus, alayhes salam, teaching and reprimanding his disciples, "Why does thou callest me good? There is none good but one, that is, God" [Matthew 19:17; Mark 10:18; Luke 18:19 (English-KJV)J; to the last messenger of monotheism who came with the final revelation from God proclaiming, "Your God is One God, there is none who has the right to be worshipped but He, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful" [2:163].
Allah, The One. This is whom over one-billion Muslims across the world pray to five times each day.
The declaration of faith for one who wants to embrace Islam is:"Ashadu Alla Ilaha Illallah waashhadu anna Muhammadan rasoolullah", whi
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