Author: snmc_ib

Please sign up for SNMC Quran competition which we hope it will increase your iman and help you memorize and review the Quran during Ramadan.

This online competition will take place May 8^th – 10^th , 2021 in sha’ Allah.

Registration deadline is Aril 26, 2021

The competition levels:

Level 1: (age 6 – 7) .. From Surat Al-Nas to Surat Al-Takathur

Level 2: (age 6 – 8) .. Surat Al-Fajr

Level 3: (age 6 -10) .. Surat Al-Mulk

Level 4: (age 6 -13) .. Surat Yaseen

Level 5: (age 6 -16) .. Surat Al-Kahf

Level 6: (age up to 29) .. Surat Al-Baqarah

Each participant must:

1) Choose one of the mentioned levels.

2) Participants from levels 2-6 will be asked to know a few lessons from the surah mentioned in their chosen level.

Registration required!

Please register at:  https://forms.office.com/r/pREqfTifmh

A Moment with Our Prophet, Muhammad (S)

By Imam Zijad Delic

Day 218: Fiqh of Fasting (Siyam): Excused Acts While Fating

Narrated by Abu Huraira (r) that the Prophet (S) said: “Whoever eats and drinks by mistake (forgetfulness/unintentionally) while fasting, let him/her continue the fasting for it is Allah Who provided food and drink for him/her.”

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ‏- رضى الله عنه ‏- قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اَللَّهِ ‏- صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏-{ مَنْ نَسِيَ وَهُوَ صَائِمٌ, فَأَكَلَ أَوْ شَرِبَ, فَلْيُتِمَّ صَوْمَهُ, فَإِنَّمَا أَطْعَمَهُ اَللَّهُ وَسَقَاهُ

Source: Bukhari, Muslim

Transliteration: “Man Nasiya Wa Huwa Saimun, Fa Akala Aw Shariba, Fal Yutimma Sawmahu, Fa Innama At’amahullahu Wa Saqahu.”

There are several groups of conditions that determine the validation of the Sawm:

* Acts that are permissible and excused during the Sawm;

* Acts that are undesirable while fasting;

* Acts that invalidate the Sawm and require Qada – making up missed days of Sawm, day for day; and

* Acts that invalidate the Sawm and require both making up missed days and ‘Kaffarah – a penance’, as well.

In some of Masail (Fiqh issues) mentioned here, there are differences of opinions among Muslim scholars, especially in the first, second and third groups.

But we have to remind ourselves that Allah does not intend to put us through hardship in following the rules of our Din such as with fasting (Siyam).

Almighty Allah informs us about it in the Qur’an: “Allah does not intend to impose hardship on you while following your Din.” (Al Hajj 78)

وَمَا جَعَلَ عَلَيْكُمْ فِي الدِّينِ مِنْ حَرَجٍ

And concerning Sawm, Allah says in the Qur’an: “Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you.” (Al Baqarah 185)

يُرِيدُ اللّهُ بِكُمُ الْيُسْرَ وَلاَ يُرِيدُ بِكُمُ الْعُسْرَ

In today’s post, let us discuss the topic of “Permissible & Excused Acts During Siyam.”

Any obedient servant who understands the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of the Messenger Muhammad (S) will never doubt the fact that Allah wishes ease for His servants and not hardship, since He has allowed various things for the Saim (fasting person) and has eliminated any harm if they are done.

1. a) Rinsing the mouth and nose.

The Saim is permitted to rinse the mouth and nose by sniffing in water and blowing it out.

However, that is permitted in general, but it is disliked to exaggerate by using a lot of water.

The process should be applied lightly for fear of swallowing water.

While brushing the teeth any time of the day, the care must be taken if the toothpaste is used.

Some Islamic scholars consider brushing the teeth undesirable late in the day.

1. b) Cooling one’s body with water by shower or bathing or immersion in water.

Abu Bakr Ibn ‘Abdur Rahman reported from a number of Sahabah that they have seen the Messenger of Allah (S) pour water over his head while he (S) was fasting due to thirst or extreme heat. (Ahmad, Malik, Abu Dawud)

Hasan Al Basri said: “There is no harm in rinsing the mouth and cooling one’s body with cold water when fasting.”

1. c) Eating and drinking and performing sexual intercourse with a spouse until one ascertains the arrival of the dawn.
2. d) Kissing one’s spouse if it does not lead to intercourse.

This permissibility is reported by Abu Hanifa, Ash Shafi’i, Ibn ‘Abbas, Ahmad bin Hanbal, Hasan Al Basri.

It can take place any time, day or night.

To deny this feeling during the month of Ramadan would undoubtedly lead to some hardship.

Therefore, Almighty Allah permitted a man / a woman to kiss his / her spouse on cheek, hand, or mouth or hold hand and embrace, if he / she feels like it and can control the feelings.

It is confirmed that ‘Aisha (r) said: “The Messenger would kiss and embrace while he was fasting, for he had the most control of all of you over his desires.” (Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmizi)

عَنْ عَائِشَةَ رَضِيَ اَللَّهُ عَنْهَا قَالَتْ: { كَانَ رَسُولُ اَللَّهِ ‏- صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏-يُقَبِّلُ وَهُوَ صَائِمٌ, وَيُبَاشِرُ وَهُوَ صَائِمٌ, وَلَكِنَّهُ أَمْلَكُكُمْ لِإِرْبِهِ

However, it is discouraged to kiss or have foreplay while fasting as it may lead to loss of control, and that can lead to the unlawful act.

This general rule in Islamic jurisprudence is known as Saduz Zari’ah (closing the door that may lead to unlawful acts).

1. e) Taking of shots or injection for treatment purposes, but on the other hand taking of nutrients or vitamins through injections would break the Sawm.

This includes local anesthetics for dental procedures, as well.

The dental procedures are permissible as long as a dentist and a patient are both capable of preventing water or other dental materials from reaching beyond the throat.

If it happens then it will definitely nullify the Sawm.

For that reason, it is recommended, except in urgent cases, to avoid such practices.

As mentioned before, medically required injections, including vaccines such as COVID-19 vaccine, eye and ear drops and medications placed on wounds, as long as they are not for nourishing purposes do not invalidate the fast even if one finds a taste in the throat as Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Al Qayyim observed.

1. f) Using oil or ointment or even eye / ear drops does not harm the Sawm.

This permissibility is reported by Anas bin Malik, Abu Hanifah, Ash Shafi’i, Ibn Al Munthir, Hasan Al Basri, Al Awzai and Abdullah ibn ‘Umar.

1. g) Smelling or wearing (use) of perfumes (non-alcoholic) or scents (although it is not recommended).
2. h) Cupping or letting out blood medically (giving blood for medical reasons).

It was narrated by Ibn Abbas (r) that the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (S) was cupped when he was fasting.” (Bukhari)

عَنِ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ ـ رضى الله عنهما ـ قَالَ احْتَجَمَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَهُوَ صَائِمٌ

The following acts are excused while fasting; these are the things which are unavoidable for they are a part of our daily living:

1. a) Swallowing one’s own saliva.
2. b) Vomiting, which is not self-induced, on which one has no control.
3. c) Dust of streets, or factories, and smoke of fuel or fire, which cannot be avoided.
4. d) Waking up in the state of Janabah (sexual defilement) would not affect the Sawm.
5. e) Nocturnal emission or wet dreams. The Messenger of Allah said: “The obligation is lifted from three persons: Insane until he gains sanity, a sleeping person until he is awake, and a child until he / she attains puberty.” (Tirmizi)

عَنْ عَلِيٍّ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏”‏ رُفِعَ الْقَلَمُ عَنْ ثَلاَثَةٍ عَنِ النَّائِمِ حَتَّى يَسْتَيْقِظَ وَعَنِ الصَّبِيِّ حَتَّى يَشِبَّ وَعَنِ الْمَعْتُوهِ حَتَّى يَعْقِلَ

1. f) Eating and drinking by mistake while fasting, forgetting the fact that one is fasting.

The Messenger of Allah informs us: “Whoever eats and drinks by mistake (forgetfulness/unintentionally) while fasting, let him / her continue the fasting for it is Allah (SWT) Who provided food and drink for him / her.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Ya Rabb! Guide us to know and understand the matters related to the Siyam since the knowledge and understanding of these matters will guide us to better our Siyam and attain maximum rewards.

Allahumma Amin!

 

 

A Moment with Our Prophet, Muhammad (S)

By Imam Zijad Delic

Day 213: Practical Muslim Response to the Surge of COVID-19

Narrated by Abu Salama (r) that our Prophet (S) instructed believers: “Not to mix the sick person with the healthy one.”

أَنْ لاَ يُورِدُ مُمْرِضٌ عَلَى مُصِحٍّ

Source: Muslim

Transliteration: “An La Yuridu Mumridun ‘Ala Musihh.”

After almost fourteen months since we realized that the new virus surfaced among us, globally and nationally, we are still struggling, and outbreaks are daily reality and news.

As coronavirus spikes in Canada and globally, Canadian Muslims share with other Canadians and human brothers and sisters across the globe, feelings of fear and hope in this challenging time.

We also pray in this blessed month of Ramadan that this fear and hopelessness will change soon, Insha Allah.

We, Canadian Muslims stand together in this state of the challenge and feel obliged to cooperate with others for the common good and pray for ourselves and others.

As people of faiths, we must hear the calls from our faith sources and the scholars, medical experts and the policy makers of all three levels of Canadian government and abide by the rules.

We must also realize at this challenging time, that our faith demands from us the following:

1. We do our share in preventing the Covid-19 spread by taking care of our Taharah (cleanliness) because cleanliness is loved by the Almighty God (Qur’an 2:222) and it is a half of our faith, as the Messenger Muhammad (S) instructed us. (Muslim)

عَنْ أَبِي مَالِكٍ الأَشْعَرِيِّ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ الطُّهُورُ شَطْرُ الإِيمَانِ

And when we take care of cleanliness of our body, we would positively impact on our health and thus health of others.

2. To protect our health, because health is one of the greatest blessings that we enjoy, second to our faith. (Tirmizi)

Our role-model Mustafa (S) told us: “For the believers, those who are Go—conscious, their health is much greater than their wealth.” (Ibn Majah, Al Hakim, Ahmed)

وَالصِّحَّةُ لِمَنِ اتَّقَى خَيْرٌ مِنَ الْغِنَ

3. To never allow ourselves to get harmed or cause harm to others such as our family members, neighbors, coworkers, friends or people we may know or not, as our Prophet (S) guided us, as narrated by ِIbn Abbas (r): “There should neither be harming (of others without cause), nor reciprocating harm (between two parties).” (Ahmed, Ibn Majah)

وَعَنْ اِبْنِ عَبَّاسٍ ‏رَضِيَ اَللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا‏- قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اَللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم لَا ضَرَرَ وَلَا ضِرَارَ

4. We must avoid mixing with people if we are sick or if we have any of the symptoms/signs of the sickness. It was narrated by Abu Salama (r) that our Prophet (S) instructed believers: “Not to mix the sick person with the healthy one.” (Muslim)

أَنْ لاَ يُورِدُ مُمْرِضٌ عَلَى مُصِحٍّ

5. We must avoid, if we are afflicted with any disease or we have symptoms of it, to leave our place of residence and enter another region.

Our Prophet (S) said this unique statement that is very much supported by medical experts today: “If you hear of an outbreak of plague in a land, do not enter it; but if the plague breaks out in a place while you are in it, do not leave that place.” (Bukhari)

حَدَّثَنَا حَفْصُ بْنُ عُمَرَ، حَدَّثَنَا شُعْبَةُ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي حَبِيبُ بْنُ أَبِي ثَابِتٍ، قَالَ سَمِعْتُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ بْنَ سَعْدٍ، قَالَ سَمِعْتُ أُسَامَةَ بْنَ زَيْدٍ، يُحَدِّثُ سَعْدًا عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ “‏ إِذَا سَمِعْتُمْ بِالطَّاعُونِ بِأَرْضٍ فَلاَ تَدْخُلُوهَا، وَإِذَا وَقَعَ بِأَرْضٍ وَأَنْتُمْ بِهَا فَلاَ تَخْرُجُوا مِنْهَا

6. If we are in any way afflicted with a disease, we must treat ourselves medically, besides taking precautions and putting trust in the Creator, as in the Hadith Sahih: “The desert Arabs came from here and there. They asked: Messenger of Allah (S), should we make use of medical treatment? He replied: “Make use of medical treatment.” (Abu Dawud)

عَنْ أُسَامَةَ بْنِ شَرِيكٍ..ُ فَجَاءَ الأَعْرَابُ مِنْ هَا هُنَا وَهَا هُنَا فَقَالُوا يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ أَنَتَدَاوَى فَقَالَ ‏ “‏ تَدَاوَوْا

7. Canadian Muslim medical professionals, together with other medical experts, nationally and globally, must work on finding the remedy for the coronavirus pandemic.

Our Prophet Muhammad (S) encouraged us to do so as in the same hadith: “The desert Arabs then came from here and there. They asked: Messenger of Allah, should we make use of medical treatment? He replied: Make use of medical treatment, for Allah has not made a disease without appointing a remedy for it, with the exception of one disease, namely old age.” (Abu Dawud)

عَنْ أُسَامَةَ بْنِ شَرِيكٍ، قَالَ أَتَيْتُ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَأَصْحَابُهُ كَأَنَّمَا عَلَى رُءُوسِهِمُ الطَّيْرُ فَسَلَّمْتُ ثُمَّ قَعَدْتُ فَجَاءَ الأَعْرَابُ مِنْ هَا هُنَا وَهَا هُنَا فَقَالُوا يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ أَنَتَدَاوَى فَقَالَ ‏ تَدَاوَوْا فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ لَمْ يَضَعْ دَاءً إِلاَّ وَضَعَ لَهُ دَوَاءً غَيْرَ دَاءٍ وَاحِدٍ الْهَرَمُ

8. We must take seriously the advice, recommendations of the medical professional and experts and abide by them.
9. We also must abide by all policies established by all three levels of the government related to the coronavirus pandemic.
10. And we also need to raise our hands to the Almighty and ask him to save us and others from the pandemic.

Narrated by Aban ibn Uthman (r) that he heard the Prophet (S) saying: “A person will not be harmed by anything if he says every morning and evening 3 times, ‘Bismillahilladhi La Yadurru Ma’asmihi Shay’un Fil Ardi Wa La Fis Sama’I Wa Huwas Sami’ul ‘Alaim.” In the Name of Allah by whose Name nothing in the earth or the heaven is harmed. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.'” (Al Adabul Mufrad)

عَنْ أَبَانَ بْنِ عُثْمَانَ قَالَ‏:‏ سَمِعْتُ عُثْمَانَ قَالَ‏:‏ سَمِعْتُ النَّبِيَّ صلى الله عليه وسلم يَقُولُ‏:‏ مَنْ قَالَ صَبَاحَ كُلِّ يَوْمٍ، وَمَسَاءَ كُلِّ لَيْلَةٍ، ثَلاَثًا ثَلاَثًا‏:‏ بِسْمِ اللهِ الَّذِي لاَ يَضُرُّ مَعَ اسْمِهِ شَيْءٌ فِي الأَرْضِ وَلاَ فِي السَّمَاءِ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ، لَمْ يَضُرَّهُ شَيْءٌ‏.

And this is not only our social obligation but a religious one as well.

The bottom-line is that Muslim response to COVID-19 is very much compatible with the general Canadian medical and governmental responses to this pandemic.

So, when the national policies suggest that citizens wash their hands regularly, we Muslims understand that, as our Taharah is a part of our faith.

When the governmental rules ask of us to stay at home and not mix with people if we have any of the COVID-19 symptoms, our faith demands that of us as well.

When the Government issue a statement that all gatherings are cancelled, that means we do not gather and go against the rule.

When the Government and medical experts’ advice social distancing and masks, then we all follow the rule.

When the Government asks us to avoid travels, then we abide the rule.

As Muslims, we have to go beyond these policies and be an example to others.

By following the established policies and the rules found in our faith sources and issued by our medical experts and policy makers, we will help ourselves and others, Insha Allah, and reduce the spread of the virus.

Ya Rabb! Help us to be an example in Canada, on individual or communal levels, in doing preventative measures regarding the COVID-19 by which we will help ourselves, others and the nation!

Allahumma Amin!

 

Dr Emdad Khan.

Grow & Purify Earning and Establish Social Justice

Zakaat, pillars of Islam, means to increase, to grow, to purify one’s wealth.

Zakaat is not a governmental tax, but its main purpose is distributing wealth to the needy.  Zakaat was made compulsory at Makkah at the same time as Salaat, in the Surahs of the Qur’aan, Zakaat and salat are mentioned together

 Allah will destroy Ribâ (usury) and will give increase for Sadaqât (deeds of charity, alms, etc.) And Allah likes not the disbelievers, sinners. (2.276)

Surah Baqarah

يَمۡحَقُ  ٱللَّهُ  ٱلرِّبَوٰاْ  وَيُرۡبِى  ٱلصَّدَقَـٰتِ‌ۗ  وَٱللَّهُ لَا  يُحِبُّ  كُلَّ  كَفَّارٍ  أَثِيمٍ (٢٧٦)

Zakaat: benefits us in many ways:
a) pleasure of Allah, b) Increase in wealth c) Protection from losses;
d) forgiveness and blessings, e) Safety from calamities;

1. f) Protection from the wrath of Allah and from a bad death,
2. g) provide a shelter on the Day of Judgement, h) Security from seventy misfortunes;
3. i) shield from the fires of Jahannam, j) Barkat in wealth; &k) saves from fear and grief.

Harm in not giving Zakaat.

۞ يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا  ٱلَّذِينَ  ءَامَنُوٓاْ  إِنَّ  ڪَثِيرً۬ا  مِّنَ  ٱلۡأَحۡبَارِ  وَٱلرُّهۡبَانِ  لَيَأۡكُلُونَ  أَمۡوَٲلَ  ٱلنَّاسِ بِٱلۡبَـٰطِلِ  وَيَصُدُّونَ  عَن سَبِيلِ  ٱللَّهِ‌ۗ  وَٱلَّذِينَ  يَكۡنِزُونَ  ٱلذَّهَبَ  وَٱلۡفِضَّةَ  وَلَا  يُنفِقُونَہَا  فِى سَبِيلِ  ٱللَّهِ  فَبَشِّرۡ هُم  بِعَذَابٍ  أَلِيمٍ۬ (٣٤)  يَوۡمَ يُحۡمَىٰ عَلَيۡهَا  فِى نَارِ  جَهَنَّمَ فَتُكۡوَىٰ  بِہَا  جِبَاهُهُمۡ  وَجُنُوبُہُمۡ  وَظُهُورُهُمۡ‌ۖ  هَـٰذَا مَا  ڪَنَزۡتُمۡ  لِأَنفُسِكُمۡ  فَذُوقُواْ  مَا كُنتُمۡ  تَكۡنِزُونَ (٣٥)

Surah Al-Tawba

O ye who believe! There are indeed many among the priests/rabbis and monks, who in falsehood devour/eat the wealth of men and hinder (them) from the Way of Allah. And there are those who bury gold and silver and spend it not in the way of Allah: announce unto them a most grievous penalty. (34) On the Day when heat will be produced out of that (wealth) in the fire of Hell, and with it will be branded their foreheads, their flanks and their backs― “This is the (treasure) which ye buried for yourselves: taste ye, then the (treasures) ye buried!” (9.34-35)

In Muslim, Abu Hurairah (RA reported that the Prophet (PBHH) said: “There is no one that possesses gold and silver  and doesn’t give his due (Zakaat) on it except that on the Day of Judgement, it will be made into plates of fire, then dipped into the Fire of Hell and with it his body, forehead and back will be branded. Each time the plates grow cool, they will be reheated and brand him again. This will occur on a Day the length of fifty thousand years, until Allah judges His servants.”

And in Al-Bukhari, Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said: “Whoever Allah has given money  to and does not give his Zakat for it, it will take the form of a shiny-headed male snake with two black spots over its eyes, which will encircle him on the Day of Judgement and bite his cheeks saying: ‘I am your money, I am your wealth.’”

Who should give Zakaat?
He/ she adult, sane, free and Muslim.
possess wealth in excess of Nisaab excluding his/her personal needs (clothing, household furniture, utensils, cars etc. are termed article of personal needs).
possessed for a complete lunar year.

Zakat Nisaab.
– Gold 87.48 gram or 7.50 tolas
– Silver 612.36 gram or 52.50 tolas
– cash, stock or bonds, other cash

Nisaab= the cash value of all the assets such as gold, silver, currency etc.

Zakat is due at the rate of 2.5%.

Zakat: 8 Types of People to Receive

۞ إِنَّمَا ٱلصَّدَقَـٰتُ لِلۡفُقَرَآءِ وَٱلۡمَسَـٰكِينِ وَٱلۡعَـٰمِلِينَ عَلَيۡہَا وَٱلۡمُؤَلَّفَةِ قُلُوبُہُمۡ وَفِى ٱلرِّقَابِ وَٱلۡغَـٰرِمِينَ وَفِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ وَٱبۡنِ ٱلسَّبِيلِ‌ۖ فَرِيضَةً۬ مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ عَلِيمٌ حَڪِيمٌ۬ (٦٠) سُوۡرَةُ التّوبَة

Surah Al-Tawba

The alms are only for the poor and the needy, and those who collect them, and those whose hearts are to be reconciled, and to free the captives and the debtors, and for the cause of Allah, and (for) the wayfarer; a duty imposed by Allah. Allah is Knower, Wise. (9.60)

• Fuqaraa: own property of basic necessities but below the value of Nisab.

• Masakeen: Persons of extreme poverty who possess no wealth.

• Aamileen:Those persons who are appointed to collect Zakat.

• Muallafatul Quloob: given Zakat with the intentions of solidifying their hearts, maybe converted or to bring them closer to Islam.

• Ar-Riqaab: slaves to set them free on payment of a fixed amount
• Ibnus-Sabeel: A traveler, even wealthy is stranded &  in need of  help

• Al Ghaarimeen: A person whose debts  exceeds his assets and his net assets is below the Nisab limit.
• Fi Sabeelillah: Those who are away from home in the path of Allah. Those in Jihaad, those seeking knowledge, or a stranded Haji may be assist with Zakat if they are in need.

Allah swt commands us in Surah al-ma ’un, have you seen him who denies the Recompense? (1) That is, he who repulses the orphan (harshly) (2) And urges not on the feeding of the needy (3).

Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) said, as reported by Sahl bin Sad (RA), I and the person, who looks after an Orphan and provides for him, will be in paradise like this, putting his index and middle fingers together, Sahih Al-Bukhari. Narrated Abu Hurairah (RA), the prophet Muhamed (PBUH) said, the one who looks after a widow or a needy person, is lik a mujahid, who fights in Alalh’s cause or like him who performs prayers all night and fasts all day, Sahih Al-Bukhari

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A Moment with Our Prophet, Muhammad (S)

By Imam Zijad Delic

Day 210: Manners of Ramadan and Fasting in It

Narrated by Abu Huraira (r) that the Prophet (S) said, “One might fast and he/she gets nothing from his/her fast but hunger. One might pray at night but he/she gets nothing from his/her prayer but fatigue.” (Ibn Majah)

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ رُبَّ صَائِمٍ لَيْسَ لَهُ مِنْ صِيَامِهِ إِلَّا الْجُوعُ وَرُبَّ قَائِمٍ لَيْسَ لَهُ مِنْ قِيَامِهِ إِلَّا السَّهَرُ

Source: Ibn Majah

Transliteration: Rubba Saimin, Laisa Lahu Min Siyamihi Illal Ju’u; Wa Rubba Qaimin Laisa Lahu Min Qiyamihi Illas Saharu.”

The month of Ramadan is a month of reflection, contemplation, patience and sacrifice.

Once we bear these things in mind, it means that we should have a period of retreat to review our work through the year, how far every individual was able to observe his/her religious duties.
Was he/she advancing spiritually, ethically, righteously and practically?

Or was he/she retreating and falling in these areas?

In the light of these reflections, we will start this coming month of Ramadan with the resolution that we are going to renew our strong bond of relationship with our Creator (Rabb), through the obedience to His words in the Qur’an, and to the tradition of the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (S).

We aim to be a good example in the Canadian society practicing the model of the Prophet (S) — the model that promotes compassion, honesty, integrity, dignity and kindness.

That is how we should, when the month of Ramadan visits us, reflect upon our attitude and our reception of the great month.

The month of Ramadan comes with many blessings to Muslims.

The reports from the Qur’an and Sunnah encourage us to increase in good actions and following in footsteps of the role-model, the Messenger Muhammad (S).

If we would examine the Sunnah of the Messenger (S) we could find a set of recommendations (manners) for observing the Sawm (fasting).

Here are a few of them:

1. Receiving the news of the arrival of the month of Ramadan with the good intention of fasting with sincere faith and seeking the pleasure of Allah (S).

One should consider it as opening the new chapter and make a firm determination to use the opportunity for the radical change in one’s life equipping himself / herself with all sorts of good deeds.
Doomer is one who comes out of Ramadan without gaining the Mercy of Allah and His forgiveness.

The Messenger of Allah said: “When the month of Ramadan starts, the gate of the Heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the Shaytans are chained.” (Bukhari)

عَنِ ابْنِ شِهَابٍ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي ابْنُ أَبِي أَنَسٍ، مَوْلَى التَّيْمِيِّينَ أَنَّ أَبَاهُ، حَدَّثَهُ أَنَّهُ، سَمِعَ أَبَا هُرَيْرَةَ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ يَقُولُ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ إِذَا دَخَلَ شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ فُتِّحَتْ أَبْوَابُ السَّمَاءِ، وَغُلِّقَتْ أَبْوَابُ جَهَنَّمَ، وَسُلْسِلَتِ الشَّيَاطِينُ

What is the meaning of the Hadith?

The Hadith may be referring specifically to the Muslim Ummah, that is, the absence of sedition and evil thoughts from the minds of Muslims in the month of Ramadan.

Fasting is a means of self-discipline and recognizing that the Shaytan whispers to us and incites us constantly to commit sins.
But fasting is like a lock against Shaytan, closing up his access points to the inside.

That is why when we look into the Muslim community during Ramadan, evil appears to be very much reduced.

Muslims work to improve themselves during the month of Ramadan.

Their spiritual awareness is so intense that the Shaytan finds it harder to get the better of them.

2. The pre-down meal – Suhur is one of the blessings during the month of Ramadan.

It is eating and drinking which can be any time from the middle of the night until just before dawn.

It is much better to have it close to dawn without running the risk of eating or drinking after dawn.

All ‘Ulama agree that it is preferred to eat a pre-down meal and that there is no sin upon one who does not do so.

‘Abdullah bin Al Harith (r) narrated that a man from among the Companions of th Prophet (S) said: “I entered upon the Prophet (S) when he was having Sahur. He said: ‘It is a blessing that Allah has given to you, so do not neglect it.” (Nasai)

عَنْ عَبْدِ الْحَمِيدِ، صَاحِبِ الزِّيَادِيِّ قَالَ سَمِعْتُ عَبْدَ اللَّهِ بْنَ الْحَارِثِ، يُحَدِّثُ عَنْ رَجُلٍ، مِنْ أَصْحَابِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ دَخَلْتُ عَلَى النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَهُوَ يَتَسَحَّرُ فَقَالَ ‏ “‏ إِنَّهَا بَرَكَةٌ أَعْطَاكُمُ اللَّهُ إِيَّاهَا فَلاَ تَدَعُوهُ

It was reported by Anas ibn Malik (r) that the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (S) has recommended Suhur: “Have Suhur for Suhur is the source of Barakah (blessing).” (Bukhari)

تَسَحَّرُوا فَإِنَّ فِي السُّحُورِ بَرَكَةً

The reason why it is a Barakah is that it strengthens the Saim, makes him / her more energetic, and makes the Sawm easier for him / her. It can be as little as a sip of water.

The Messenger of Allah (S) said: “The Suhur is blessed, so do not neglect it even if you only take a sip of water. Verily Allah and the Malaikah pray for those who have Suhur.” (Ahmad)

عَنْ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ الْخُدْرِيِّ قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ السُّحُورُ أَكْلَةٌ بَرَكَةٌ فَلَا تَدَعُوهُ وَلَوْ أَنْ يَجْرَعَ أَحَدُكُمْ جَرْعَةً مِنْ مَاءٍ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ وَمَلَائِكَتَهُ يُصَلُّونَ عَلَى الْمُتَسَحِّرِينَ

The Messenger of Allah (S) also said: “The distinction between our fasting and the fasting of the people of the book (Jews and Christians) is in taking the Suhur.” (Nasai)

عَنْ عَمْرِو بْنِ الْعَاصِ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ “‏ إِنَّ فَصْلَ مَا بَيْنَ صِيَامِنَا وَصِيَامِ أَهْلِ الْكِتَابِ أَكْلَةُ السُّحُورِ

3. Hastening in breaking the Sawm – Iftar in the month of Ramadan.

It is breaking fast with a light meal, preferably dates (if dates are not available then with any kind of fruits) or water, following with Iqamah for the Magrib prayer, and then taking the regular meal.

It was narrated by Abu Dharr (r) that the Prophet (S) said: “The people will always remain in a good state of mind and body (during Sawm) as long as they hurry in the breaking of the Sawm (Iftar) and delay the Suhur.” (Ahmed)

لَا تَزَالُ أُمَّتِي بِخَيْرٍ مَا عَجَّلُوا الْإِفْطَارَ وَأَخَّرُوا السُّحُورَ

It is clear that the purpose of these instructions is to discourage all forms of rigidity and fanaticism, and to teach moderation.

4. Doing good towards others as much as possible for the rewards promised for them are tremendous indeed.

The Iftar may be taken with the family at home, or friends and relatives may be invited to the Iftar and we will have the reward for it, as narrated by Zayd ibn Khalid (r) that the Messenger of Allah (S) said: “One who feeds a fasting person will receive the same reward as him, except that nothing will be reduced from the fasting person’s reward.” (Tirmizi)

مَنْ فَطَّرَ صَائِمًا كَانَ لَهُ مِثْلُ أَجْرِهِ غَيْرَ أَنَّهُ لَا يَنْقُصُ مِنْ أَجْرِ الصَّائِمِ شَيْئًا

Anas ibn Malik (r) narrated that the Prophet (S) came to the home of Sa’d ibn ‘Ubadah (r), who presented him (S) with bread and olive oil. The Prophet (S) ate them and he said: “The fasting have broken their fast with you, the righteous have eaten your food, and the angels send blessings upon you.” (Abu Dawud)

أَفْطَرَ عِنْدَكُمْ الصَّائِمُونَ وَأَكَلَ طَعَامَكُمْ الْأَبْرَارُ وَصَلَّتْ عَلَيْكُمْ الْمَلَائِكَةُ

The Messenger of Allah (S) said: “Whoever offers food for someone to break his fast, his act will earn him Allah’s forgiveness for his sins, and will help to redeem himself from hell fire. He will also reap rewards as the one who has fasted, without reducing from fasting person’s reward. The Companion said: “All of us are not in a position to provide food for another to break his fast.” He replied: “Allah will bestow the same reward on anyone who offers a date or a cup of milk to his brother to break his fast.” (Ibn Khuzaymah)

5. Making Du’a while breaking Sawm in Ramadan.

While breaking the Sawm, turn towards Allah, offering special supplications for yourselves and for all Muslims generally, for that is the special hour when the supplications are heard by Allah.

It is confirmed that the Messenger of Allah (S) used to recite frequently the following Du’a upon breaking his Sawm: “Gone is the thirst, quenched are the veins, and assured is the reward if Allah wills.” (Abu Dawud)

عن ابن عمر قَالَ قَالَ كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ إِذَا أَفْطَرَ قَالَ ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَابْتَلَّتْ الْعُرُوقُ وَثَبَتَ الْأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ

Another Du’a is often recited: “Allahumma laka sumtu wa ‘ala rizqika aftartu – O Allah! For You I have fasted and with Your provisions do I break my fast.” (Abu Dawud)

اللَّهُمَّ اِنِّى لَكَ صُمْتُ وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ

Ibn Majah reported from Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-Aas (r) that Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “A fasting person, upon breaking his fast, has a supplication that will not be rejected.” (Ibn Majah)

إِنَّ لِلصَّائِمِ عِنْدَ فِطْرِهِ لَدَعْوَةً مَا تُرَدُّ

When Abdullah (r) broke his fast, he would say: “O Allah, I ask of You, by Your mercy that encompasses everything, to forgive me.

قَالَ ابْنُ أَبِي مُلَيْكَةَ سَمِعْتُ عَبْدَ اللَّهِ بْنَ عَمْرٍو يَقُولُ إِذَا أَفْطَرَ اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ بِرَحْمَتِكَ الَّتِي وَسِعَتْ كُلَّ شَىْءٍ أَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي

6. Abstention from obscene and indecent acts as well as mastering the fine virtues of patience, clemency, serenity.

Fasting is one of the best acts of worship.

It is mandated by Almighty Allah to purify the soul along with the practice of good deeds.

Thus the faster ought to be aware of acts or behaviors that may spoil his/her fast so that he/she will attain the highest benefit physically and spiritually.

Fasting is not only restraining oneself from fast-breakers – food, drink and sex – that restrain only the mouth (stomach) and the private parts.

And Jabir (r) said: “When you fast, then let your hearing, seeing, and tongue fast as well from falsehood and sins, and avoid harming your servants. Rather, you must have dignity and tranquility on the day of your fasting. Do not make days you do not fast and days you fast as if they were the same.” (Muṣannaf Ibn Abī Shaybah)

إذَا صُمْتَ فَلْيَصُمْ سَمْعُكَ وَبَصَرُكَ وَلِسَانُكَ عَنِ الْكَذِبِ وَالْمَآثِمِ وَدَعْ أَذَى الْخَادِمِ وَلْيَكُنْ عَلَيْكَ وَقَارٌ وَسَكِينَةٌ يَوْمَ صِيَامِكَ وَلَا تَجْعَلْ يَوْمَ فِطْرِكَ وَيَوْمَ صِيَامِكَ سَوَاءً

Thus, every limb must be restrained!

The tongue must desist from backbiting, mocking, lying, slandering, yelling, screaming, shouting.

The eyes must restrain themselves from any unlawful look.

The hand must not touch or take what does not belong to it.

The ears must not listen to idle talk.

The nose must fast also by not sniffing and smelling unlawful things.

The feet must fast by not going to the places where sinful acts are propagated.

It was reported by Abu Huraira (r) that the Prophet (S) said: “He who does not refrain from speaking falsehood and acting by it, Allah does not require of him to give up eating and drinking.” (Bukhari)

مَنْ لَمْ يَدَعْ قَوْلَ الزُّورِ وَالْعَمَلَ بِهِ فَلَيْسَ لِلَّهِ حَاجَةٌ فِي أَنْ يَدَعَ طَعَامَهُ وَشَرَابَهُ

It was narrated by Abu Huraira (r) that the Prophet (S) said, “One might fast and he/she gets nothing from his/her fast but hunger. One might pray at night but he/she gets nothing from his/her prayer but fatigue.” (Ibn Majah)

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ رُبَّ صَائِمٍ لَيْسَ لَهُ مِنْ صِيَامِهِ إِلَّا الْجُوعُ وَرُبَّ قَائِمٍ لَيْسَ لَهُ مِنْ قِيَامِهِ إِلَّا السَّهَرُ

If someone does wrong to you, meet it with what is superior, more excellent, and remind yourself of the proper Islamic moral and observe the fine quality of a Saim.

Abu Hurayrah (r) reported that the Prophet (S) said: “When one of you awakes in the morning for fasting, then he should not use obscene language or behave ignorantly. If anyone slanders him or tries to argue with him, he should say: Indeed, I am fasting. Indeed, I am fasting.” (Muslim)

إِذَا أَصْبَحَ أَحَدُكُمْ يَوْمًا صَائِمًا فَلَا يَرْفُثْ وَلَا يَجْهَلْ فَإِنْ امْرُؤٌ شَاتَمَهُ أَوْ قَاتَلَهُ فَلْيَقُلْ إِنِّي صَائِمٌ إِنِّي صَائِمٌ

All these Ahadith are evidence that the most important thing in the sight of Almighty Allah is not merely physically restraining from the obvious food and drink, but the total commitment of the servant’s body and soul to the letter and spirit of fasting.

The curfew of the body and mind during the state of fasting enables the person who has fasted in the true spirit of Ramadan to have the necessary requirements to withstand the turbulence of life for the next eleven months.

7. Devoting the time to the reading and studying the Qur’an during both days and nights in the month of Ramadan and implementing these teachings.

Ramadan is the month of the Qur’an.

It is recommended to study the Qur’an during all the times, but it is especially stressed during the month of Ramadan.

It was narrated by ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (r) that the Messenger of Allah (S) said: “In every night of Ramadan Jibril used to visit me and teach me the Qur’an.” (Nasai)

وَكَانَ جِبْرِيلُ يَلْقَاهُ فِي كُلِّ لَيْلَةٍ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ فَيُدَارِسُهُ الْقُرْآنَ

8. Not letting the month of Ramadan be a month of laziness and idleness.

It would be unfair to the spirit of fasting to make the month of Ramadan a source of lagging behind in work, and being unproductive.

It would be unfair to the spirit of fasting that a person sleeps through day and stays awaken through night.

Ramadan is the month of Sabr, during which a believer arms himself with a weapon of will power and determination and applies himself diligently to all sorts of constructive works.

The Messenger of Allah said to the Sahabah: “During the month of Ramadan, Allah will cover you with His Grace, and His Mercy will descend upon you, and all your sins will be dropped, and prayers will receive ready answer. Allah will look upon your endeavors to compete with one another for good works during this month, and he will boast with His angels on account of you. So strive to show good to Allah, for one who does not do so, he is doomed.” (At Tabarani)

9. Being extra careful in securing Halal food for the month of Ramadan as well as avoid all forms of excess and wastage in food and drink.

Halal food is a requirement throughout the year and in the month of Ramadan which is an excellent opportunity to examine the sources of our living, we must be much more careful.

Abstaining from Halal during the day and breaking the fast with Haram to a Muslim does not make sense.

On the other side fasting for whole day and at the end of the day go ever the limits in taking food and wasting it is not the spirit of Fasting (Ramadan).

10. Diligence in ‘Ibadah during the last ten days in the month of Ramadan. ‘Aisha (raa) said: “When the last ten days of Ramadan would come, the Messenger (S) would maintain ‘Ibadah during the night, tighten his waist- wrap, and wake up his family (to pray).” (Ibn Majah)

عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، قَالَتْ كَانَ النَّبِيُّ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ إِذَا دَخَلَتِ الْعَشْرُ أَحْيَا اللَّيْلَ وَشَدَّ الْمِئْزَرَ وَأَيْقَظَ أَهْلَهُ

In the address of the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (S) on the last day of Sha’ban he has said: “Anyone who comes closer to Allah through a good deed during this month is as if he/she performed an obligatory duty (Faridah) during times other than Ramadan, and he/she who fulfills an obligatory duty in it will be like one who fulfills seventy obligatory duties in another month.” (Ibn Khuzaymah)

The month of Ramadan is the month of deep reflection and the period of annual retreat in which the faithful believers review their dealings and how far they were able to advance spiritually, righteously and socially or they were falling back in these realms!

Practicing established manners in the month of Ramadan would add the value to our Ramadan and thus multiple rewards!

Ya Rabb! Help us welcome the month of Mercy with open hands, ready to practice the Sunan of Rasul (S) related to the month of Ramadan so that we all will be the winners after the month of Ramadan has left us this year!

Allahumma Amin!