Attari.Rafique

Assalamualaikum Warehmatullahi Wabaraqatuhu Shah Ast Hussain Badshah Ast Hussain Deen Ast Hussain Deen Pana Ast Hussain Sar Daad Na Daad Dast Dar Daste-Yazeed Haqqa Ke Bina’e La Ilaaha Ast Hussain Hussain, Divinity-kneaded love, Emperor Hussain, himself the Faith, Faith Saviour Hussain, sacrificed his self, didn’t submit to Yazeed, nor offered hand to admit Verily, Faith inculcator is Hussain, ‘There is no God but Allah’ stamped Hussain These are the beautiful words written by Sultanul-Hind Hazrat Khwaja Ghareebun Nawaaz Khwaja Mueenuddin Chishti Ajmeri Rahmatullah Alaih, in praise of Hazrat Imam Hussain Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh. Our Islamic year begins with Muharramul Haraam, the first month of the Hijri calendar. It is the month of sacrifice and struggle, the month of awareness and consciousness, the month of revival of Islam, the month in which Hazrat Imam Hussain Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh, with 72 members of his family and followers were martyred at Karbala by the corrupt Yazeed and his army in the year 61 A.H. While the followers of other religions spend their opening month in worthless merriment, the first month of Islam teaches us numerous lessons of good conduct, Knowledge of Allah, sacrifice, selflessness, patience, and seeking the Pleasure of Allah as displayed by Hazrat Imam Hussain Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh. Therefore we should spend this month, especially the first ten days, remembering and learning from the sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh and trying to implement it in our lives. We should also try to send Esaale Sawaab to the Shuhada-e- Karbala especially in these 10 days, by reciting Surah Yaseen, Surah Ikhlas (Qul Huwallah) or by any other means. (Note: reciting Surah Ikhlas 3 times yields the sawaab of reciting the entire Quran Shareef) Remember, the quantity you read is not as important as the love and sincerity with which you do it. ASHOORAH The 10th of Muharram, which is known as Ashoorah is a very blessed day and has distinctive qualities. To mention a few, Allah Ta’ala created the heavens, the earth, the Arsh, the angels as well as Hazrat Adam Alaihis Salaam on this blessed day. On this very day He bestowed His Infinite Blessings and Bounties on many of His Prophets and delivered them from the clutches of their enemies. The Day of Resurrection (Qayamat) will also occur on this day. DEEDS TO BE PERFORMED ON ASHOORAH 1. Hazrat Imam Zainul Abideen Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh reports that whoever recites the Duae- Ashoorah on the 10th of Muharram or listens to its recitation from someone else, Allah Ta’ala will most certainly make its recitation an insurance for a year’s life for him, by keeping death away from him. However, if he is to become the victim of death in that year, he will by some strange coincidence not remember or will be unable to recite it. 2. On the eve of Ashoorah offer 4 rakats nafl namaaz as follows: In every rakat after Surah Fatiha recite Ayatul Kursi once and Surah Ikhlas 3 times. After completing this namaaz recite Surah Ikhlas 100 times. Allah Ta’ala will purify such a person of all his sins and grant him countless bounties and blessings in Paradise, Insha Allah. 3. One should fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. If it is not possible to fast on both days, then every effort should be made to fast on the 10th of Muharram as Rasoolullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam has said, ‘If someone fasts on the day of Ashoorah he will be granted the spiritual reward of ten thousand angels, the spiritual reward of ten thousand martyrs as well as the spiritual reward of ten thousand pilgrims.” The Ulema-e-Ahle Sunnat have listed the following as 10 desirable acts for the day of Ashoorah. Some of them are stated in the Hadith while others are the sayings of Hazrat Ali Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh and as such every effort should be made to practice upon them as much as possible. 1. To observe fast on the day. 2. To give as much charity as one can afford. 3. To perform nafl prayers. 4. To recite Surah Ikhlas 1000 times. 5. To visit and be in the company of pious Ulema. 6. To place a hand of affection on the head of an orphan. 7. To give generously to one’s relatives. 8. To put surma in one’s eyes. 9. To take a bath (Ghusl) 10. To cut one’s nails (if big). AHADITH CONCERNING THE DAY OF ASHOORAH “If someone strokes the head of an orphan with his hand on the day of Ashoorah, for every hair on the orphan’s head, Allah Ta’ala will promote him by one degree in the Garden of Paradise.” “If someone provides a believer with a meal to break his fast on the night of Ashoorah, it will be as if the entire Ummah of Rasoolullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam had broken fast as his guests and had filled their stomachs to capacity.” “If someone pays a visit to a sick person on the day of Ashoorah, it is as if he had visited all the children of Hazrat Adam Alaihis Salaam.” “If someone gives a thirsty person a drink of water on the day of Ashoorah, it is as if he had never disobeyed Allah even for a single instant.” “If someone spends the night of Ashoorah in vigilant worship and enters upon the morning in a state of fasting, he will die without knowing the agony of death.” “The most meritorious fasting after the month of Ramadaan is fasting in the month of Muharram, and the most meritorious ritual prayer (namaaz), after that which is obligatory and that which is performed in the middle of the night, is the ritual prayer of the day of Ashoorah.” “Whosoever prepares ample food and drink for his family on this sacred day and delights in feeding them generously, Allah Ta’ala will increase his provisions for that year and place much blessings and good therein.” “If someone anoints his eyelids with antimony (Surma) on the day of Ashoorah, he will not suffer from any inflammation of the eyes throughout the entire course of that year.” “If someone performs the major ritual ablution (Ghusl) on the day of Ashoorah, he will never experience any illness, apart from the sickness of death.” [Ghunyalit Taalibi Tareeqal Haqq] May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to act upon at least a few, if not all of the points above, with love and sincerity. May Allah Ta’ala also grant us the Taufeeq and Hidayat to learn patience and selflessness from the beautiful example of Hazrat Imam Hussain Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh and to implement it in our lives, Ameen.

Hazrat Sayyiduna Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) is the beloved son of Hazrat Sayyiduna Ali and Bibi Fatima (Ridwanullahi Ta'ala Alaihim Ajma'een) and the most beloved grandson of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He was born on the 5th of Sha'baan in the year 4 Hijri. Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) gave the Azaan in his right ear and the Iqaamat in his left ear. He then placed his blessed saliva in the mouth of Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) and made Dua for him. On the 7th day he was named Hussain and his Aqeeqa was performed. Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) commanded Hazrat Bibi Fatima (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) to remove his hair and to give silver in charity equivalent to the weight of the hair. Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) was without doubt a very handsome personality. From his chest down to his blessed feet he was the image of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), whereas his elder brother Hazrat Imam Hassan (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) was the image of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) from his chest up to his blessed head. The blessed face of Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) was so bright that it would even shine in the darkness of night. Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) was taught by Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), Hazrat Bibi Fatima and Sher-e-Khuda Hazrat Ali (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anhum). Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) loved Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) due to his piety and pure heart. The Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was also aware that the time would come when his beloved grandson would save the Ummah from destruction at the hands of a corrupt and tyrant leader. Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) loved Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) dearly. Hazrat Umar Farooq (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) said, “Once, when I presented myself in the court of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) I saw that he was walking on his knees carrying Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) on his blessed back. When I saw this I said, “Your mode of transport is most splendid. On hearing this, the Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, “O Umar, the passenger is also very splendid.”” Hazrat Ya'la bin Marwaa (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) reports that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Hussain is from me and I am from Hussain. Whosoever has kept Hussain as his beloved, Allah is his beloved.” Hazrat Jaabir ibn Abdullah (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) states, “I heard from Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), “Whosoever wishes to see the leader of Paradise, he should look at Hussain ibn Ali (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh).”” Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) was a very kind, gentle, generous, merciful and Allah-fearing personality. He always cared for the poor and oppressed, assisted the helpless, gave comfort to those in pain and sorrow and showed great love and affection towards orphans. He was the embodiment of the character of his grandfather Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and of his blessed parents. His tolerance and patience was also exemplary. This was manifested by the fact that his martyrdom had been foretold by the Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and even though he was aware of this, he still made sabr and waited for the Will of Allah to take its course. Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) was also blessed with bravery of the highest degree and this bravery and fearlessness was manifested on many occasions, particularly during the Battle of Karbala. The following incidents should give us a glimpse of the exemplary personality of Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh): Once, Hazrat Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anhum) wrote some words in calligraphy on a blackboard. After they had completed writing, they both told each other that the other's writing was better. They could not come to an agreement as to whose writing was better, so they took their work to Hazrat Ali (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) and asked him to make the decision. He looked at their work and asked them to take it to their mother Hazrat Bibi Fatima (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anha). She looked at their work and said that the best person to make such a decision would be their beloved grandfather Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Both brothers then went to the court of the Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), who looked at their work and said, “This decision will be made by Hazrat Jibra'eel (Alaihis Salaam). Immediately Hazrat Jibra'eel (Alaihis Salaam) appeared and said, “O Prophet of Allah, this decision will be made by Almighty Allah.” Thus Almighty Allah commanded Hazrat Jibra'eel (Alaihis Salaam) to take an apple from Jannat and to drop it over their boards. The best piece of work will be that on which the apple will fall. Hazrat Jibra'eel (Alaihis Salaam) then did as commanded and dropped the apple over the boards. The apple fell and split into two equal pieces, half on the board of Hazrat Imam Hassan and half on the board of Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anhum). Subhaanallah! This showed that both of their calligraphic writing was equal. It also shows us what excellence has been bestowed on the grandsons of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) that the decision concerning their writing is made in the Divine Court of Almighty Allah. Once, Hazrat Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anhum) had gone outside for a long time and Hazrat Bibi Fatima (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anha) became very worried. She was still thinking about where the children might have gone when the Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) arrived at her home. She immediately asked her beloved father, “Ya Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain cannot be found. They have gone out and we do not know their whereabouts.” Just then, Hazrat Jibra'eel (Alaihis Salaam) descended and said, “Ya Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), there is nothing to worry about. Both the children are at a certain place and Almighty Allah has appointed angels to protect them.” On hearing this, Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) went to the spot pointed out by Hazrat Jibra'eel (Alaihis Salaam) and he saw that both the beloved grandsons were resting and an angel had one of his wings under them and was shading them with the other wing. The Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) kissed both of them and carried them home to Hazrat Bibi Fatima (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anha). Once a Bedouin presented himself in the court of Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) and said, “I heard your beloved grandfather (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) say that when one is in need of anything, then one should request this from one of four persons; either from a pious Arab, or from a pious master, or from a Hafizul Qur'an, or from a graceful person, and all these four qualities are found in you in the highest form. The reason for this, is that if the entire Arabia received piety, it is through your blessed family, and generosity is your beautiful quality; as for the Qur'an, this was revealed in your home and concerning your gracefulness, I heard your beloved grandfather (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) say, “If you wish to see me, then look at Hassan and Hussain.”” Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) listened to his words and then said, “I heard my beloved grandfather Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) saying, “Piety is according to one's knowledge.” I will thus ask you three religious questions. I have with me this bag. If you answer one question I shall give you one third of what is in the bag; if you answer two, then I shall give you half of what is in this bag and if you answer all the questions, then I shall give you all of what is in the bag.” The Bedouin was very pleased and requested Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) to present the questions. He asked, “Which action is the most exalted amongst all actions?” The Bedouin replied, “To bring faith in Allah.” Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) then asked, “What protects a servant from destruction?” He answered, “In having complete trust (faith) in Allah.” Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) then asked, “What is that through which a servant attains his splendour?” He answered, “By knowledge which is accompanied with good deeds.” He asked, “And if one does not have this quality?” He answered, “He should have that wealth in which there is generosity.” He then asked, “And what if one does not have such wealth?” He said, “He should be patient in his poverty.” Sayyidush Shuhada (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) then asked, “And what if someone is not is such a poverty (where he is patient)?” The Bedouin replied, “Then he should be struck by a bolt of lightening.” On hearing these answers, Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) smiled and gave him the entire bag. Once Hazrat Imam Hassan, Hazrat Imam Hussain and Hazrat Abdullah ibn Jaafar (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anhum) had gone together on Hajj. On their way, the camel which was carrying food, water and belongings went astray and was left far behind. They came to a shack belonging to a very old woman. All three of them went over to the shack and told the woman that they were very thirsty and asked if she could spare them something to drink. The old woman kindly milked her goats and presented the goats milk for them to drink. They then kindly asked if she had anything for them to eat. The old woman said that the food was not prepared but if they wished to wait, she would slaughter the goat and cook it for them. They thus agreed to wait. The goat was slaughtered and the old woman cooked a delicious meal. All of them happily partook in the meal, and on leaving they informed the old woman that they were of the Quraish tribe and they invited her to visit them in Madina, so that they may return her generous favour. The three of them then continued on their journey. Her husband came home later that day and found that she had cooked the goat. He was very angry that she had fed the goat to people she did not even know. Some time passed and both the old woman and her husband became very poor. They travelled to Madina Munawwarah where they earned very little money gathering and selling camel droppings. Once while she was walking in Madina Shareef, Hazrat Imam Hassan (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) spotted her. He immediately went up to her and asked if she recognized him. The old woman said that she could not and Imam Hassan (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) explained to her that he was amongst those who stopped at her shack and partook in a meal which she provided for them. On hearing this she was very pleased and she informed Hazrat Imam Hassan (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) of her situation. Hazrat Imam Hassan (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) took her to his home and gave her one thousand goats and one thousand dinars in cash. He then asked his servant to take her to the home of Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh). Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) asked her what her brother had given her, and he too blessed her with one thousand goats and one thousand dinars. Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) then asked his servant to take her to the home of Hazrat Abdullah ibn Jaafar (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh). He was very pleased to see her and asked what both Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anhum) had given her. She replied that all together they had given her two thousand goats and two thousand dinars. On hearing this he gave her two thousand goats and two thousand dinars. The old woman was now very pleased, and took the four thousand goats and four thousand dinars and went to her husband. She presented these to him and said, “This is a gift from that generous family to whom I had fed one goat.” Subhaanallah! What generosity did Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta'ala Anh) and his family possess. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to instil in us and our children the beautiful qualities possessed by Hazrat Imam Hussain Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh, Ameen. [Compiled from Tazkira Masha’ikh-e-Qadria Razvia by Maulana Abdul Mujtaba Razvi ]

Assalamualaikum "Nek Logoko Khana Khilana Rizk Me Izafa Karta Hai Aur Fasik O Fajir Ko Dawat Dena Fisk Aur Nafarmani Me Iski Madad Karna Hai"-:Imam Gazali Rehmatullah alaih

While a man was polishing his new car,his 4 yr old son picked up a stone and scratched lines on the side of the car. In anger, the man took the child's hand and hit it many> times not realizing he was using a wrench. At the hospital, the child lost all his fingers > due to multiple> fractures.> When the child saw his father..... with painful eyes he asked, 'Dad when will my fingers grow back?' The man was so hurt and speechless; he went back to his car and kicked it a lot of times. Devastated by his own actions...... sitting in front of that car he looked at the scratches; the child had written 'LOVE YOU DAD'. The next day that man committed suicide. . . Anger and Love have no limits; choose the latter to have a beautiful, lovely life & remember this: Things are to be used and people are to be loved. The problem in today's world is that people are used while things are loved. Let's try always to keep this thought in mind: Things are to be used, People are to be loved. Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character; Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

Namrood’s destruction was at hand. Allah Ta’ala had given him enough time to reform. But he imagined he had himself to thank for the respite he had been granted. He had become more and more cruel and unjust. His despotism knew no bounds. He summoned Hazrat Ibrahim (Alaihis Salaam) and said to him, “Tell your Allah that I neither fear Him nor need Him! Go tell Him that the whole world is in awe of me. All people are obedient to my command. If He is the God of heaven, I am God of the earth. Where are His armies? If the sky fell on my troops, they could hold it up with their lances. Tell Him I challenge Him to a battle. He has no say on earth. The whole earth belongs to me; it is my kingdom!” The answer was revealed to Hazrat Ibrahim (Alaihis Salaam): “Let him come to such and such a place, where I shall do battle with him!” The venerable Ibrahim Khaleelullah (Alaihis Salaam) passed the news to Namrood. On the day appointed, the brigades and regiments assembled on the battlefield, forming themselves in ranks. The Glorified and Exalted Rabb gave His army of mosquitoes their orders, and then sent these humble creatures into action against the proud and stubborn unbeliever who claimed to be deity. The skies turned black as Namrood’s horde stood ready for battle. When the order was given, the host of mosquitoes hurled themselves in their hundreds of millions against the army of the enemy of Allah. They filled the soldiers’ mouths, eyes and ears, biting with a vengeance. When the cavalry horses met the mosquitoes’ onslaught, they started to bolt in all directions, unseating their riders as they fled. In the space of half an hour, destruction had overtaken Namrood’s army, more than a hundred thousand strong. Namrood himself left the battlefield, taking refuge in one of his castles. He thought he had saved his life by stopping up all doors and windows. In spite of the great miracle he had witnessed, he could not bring himself to repent and accept the Oneness of Allah Ta’ala. How could he do so, without overcoming his arrogance and pride? The scoundrel was wilfully obstinate in his disbelief. One lame mosquito, with a damaged wing, had been unable to obey the Divine Command to attack this stubborn infidel. It now addresses itself to Allah Ta’ala, saying, “Oh Allah, what a sinful and luckless creature I must be, that You should deprive me of my share in this battle. If only my leg and my wing had been sound, I would have done my bit in fighting this enemy of Yours!” Almighty Allah, Lord of the worlds, then gave it the command, “Go now! You destroy that accursed one!” The lame mosquito made its way, limping to the castle where Namrood was hiding. Getting in through a keyhole, it went and settled on Namrood’s knee. There it rested, recovering from its exhaustion. Namrood spotted the insect and tried to kill it, but the mosquito settled on his other knee. As it rested there, it seemed to say, “You once told the venerable Ibrahim (Alaihis Salaam) that you had the power of life and death. You sought to prove it by killing one man and letting another go free. Come, what is stopping you from killing me now?” Namrood could not kill the insect, no matter how hard he tried. Allah Ta’ala was demonstrating his weakness to him, as if to say, “Unless I will it, you cannot kill! When you killed men by My will, you imagined that you had granted them death. Look, you are a nonentity. You used the kingdom I gave you as a pretext for disobeying Me. You are nothing! What has become of the arrogance of yours? Where are your armies? Where is your divinity? Look, you have been conquered by that humble creature of Mine, the mosquito. You have been disgraced!” For all his efforts Namrood still could not kill the mosquito, which now went up inside his nose. Once upon a time, Namrood had wanted to burn Hazrat Ibrahim (Alaihis Salaam) in the fire, but in that he had also failed. The fire would not burn. Fire is only the secondary cause, the Real Cause being Almighty Allah. The mosquito started eating the membrane of Namrood’s brain. The tyrant beat his head from rock to rock. Now he had really begun to feel the pain of his defeat. He had felt no sympathy for the hundred thousand soldiers he had left on the battlefield, nor for their bereaved parents. His only thought had been to save his filthy skin and rotten soul by running to hide in his castle; but hiding could not save him from the dreaded claws of death. How many lives he had slaughtered, how many houses he had destroyed, how many brains he had dashed out. Now he was dashing his own head against the rocks and walls; now he was suffering himself the pain he had inflicted on others. Those people who oppress others should take heed of Namrood’s condition and remember that Allah Ta’ala will give you enough time and respite, but the day His Wrath befalls you then there is no escape. Namrood appointed salaried officials to hit him on the head with mallets. The blows gave him a brief respite, since they interrupted the insect’s work. As soon as the mosquito began eating his brain once more, he would cry, “Help! Hit me!” He would get angry with those who did not hit him hard enough, while he increased the salaries of those who were hard hitters. The so called ‘God of the earth’ was being beaten by his own servants. One day, one of these servants wielded the mallet too hard, and Namrood’s evil soul departed. They laid his filthy corpse in the pit of hell which was his grave. We should learn from this incident that arrogance and pride will lead us to nothing but destruction in both the worlds. The more arrogant one is the more disgraced one would end up. This can be seen from the fact that Namrood gave himself such a high status that he considered himself as God, yet he was disgracefully defeated by one of the weakest and most humble creatures of Allah Ta’ala. This is the Qudrat of Allah Ta’ala. And the more we remind ourselves of the Power of Allah Ta’ala and His Bounties, the further away arrogance and pride will be from us because we will realize that everything that we have achieved and attained is due to the Blessings that Allah Ta’ala has bestowed upon us, not because of our own doings. That is why Fakhrul Islam Qutbe Mauritius Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Ibrahim Khushtar Siddiqui Qadri Razvi (Rahmatullah Alaih) used to always say, “I am Nothing, He is Everything.” The more Allah Ta’ala raised his status, the more he crumbled himself with a quality of nothingness before the All- Powerful and Exalted Rabb. May Allah Ta’ala save us from pride and arrogance and may He in His Infinite Mercy grant us the Taufeeq to constantly remind ourselves that “I am Nothing, He is Everything,” Ameen. [Compiled from Irshad: Wisdom of a Sufi Master by Shaikh Muzaffer Al Jerrahi ]

Forgotten Sunnah: Kissing Thumbs During the Athan The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said “He who clings fast to my Sunnah (way of life) when my Ummah is corrupt, will receive the Reward of a hundred martyrs.” The sunnah of Prophet Adam The Gospel of Barnabas mentions: ‘…Adam, having sprung upon his feet, saw in the air a writing that shone like the sun, which said: “There is only one God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.” Whereupon Adam opened his mouth and said: “I thank Thee, O Lord my God, that Thou hast deigned to create me; but tell me, I pray, what meaneth the message of these words: “Muhammad is the Messenger of God.” Have there been other men before me?” ‘Then said God: “Be thou welcome, O my servant Adam. I tell thee that thou art the first man whom I created. And he whom thou hast seen [mentioned] is thy son, who shall come into the world many years to hence, and shall be my Messenger, for whom I created all things; who shall give light to the world when he shall come; whose soul was set in a celestial splendour sixty thousand years before I made everything.” ‘Adam besought God, saying: “Lord, grant me this writing upon the nails of the fingers of my hands.” Then God gave to the first man upon his thumbs that writing; upon the thumb-nail of the right hand it said: “There is no God, ” and upon the thumb-nail of the left hand it said: “Muhammad is the Messenger of God.” Then with fatherly affection the first man kissed those words, and rubbed his eyes, and said: “Blessed be that day when thou shalt come to the world…” - Section 39 of the Gospel of Barnabas In the Hadith: The Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said, “whosoever has touched the name Muhammad with his hands, then kissed his hand with his lips and rubbed it on his eyes, then he will see Allah Ta’ala just as righteous ones see and my intercession will be close to him even though he is a sinner.’’ (An Nawafi ul Atri’aa) In Jannat, when Hazrat Adam (alaihis salaam) desired to meet the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), then Allah Ta’ala sent Wahi (revelation) to him, “From your generation, he will become apparent in the later years.” Then Hazrat Adam (alaihis salaam) desired from Allah Ta’ala to meet the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Allah Ta’ala showed him the Noor of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) on the Shahadat finger of his right hand. The Noor recite the Tasbeeh of Allah Ta’ala. It is for this reason that this finger is known as the kalmia finger. Allah Ta’ala showed the beauty of Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) on the thumbnails of Hazrat Adam (alaihis salaam) like a mirror. Then, Hazrat Adam (alaihis salaam) kissed his both the thumbnails and turned them over his eyes. Thus, this Sunnah of Hazrat Adam (alaihis salaam) became consistent in his descendant. When Hazrat Jibraeel Ameen (alaihis salaam) informed Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) of this he said, “that person, who when hearing my name in Azaan, kisses his thumbnails and turns it over his eyes, he shall never go blind.” (Tafseer Roohul Bayaan). Once the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) entered the Masjid and sat down near the pillar. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (radi Allahu anhu) was seated beside him. Hazrat Bilal (radi Allahu anhu) then stood up and commenced with Azaan. When he said: “ Ash hadu Ana Muhammadur Rasoolullah”, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique (radi Allahu anhu) placed his both the thumbnails on to his eyes and said “Qurratu Aini Bika Ya Rasoolullah” ( Ya Rasoolullah! You are the coolness of my eyes). When Hazrat Bilal completed Azaan, the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said, “O Abu Bakr! Whosoever does like you have done, Almighty Allah will forgive his all sins.” (Tafseer Roohul Bayaan). Sayyiduna Imam Hasan (radi Allahu anhu) said Whosoever hears the Mu’azzin say’ “ Ash hadu Ana Muhammadur Rasoolullah” and says “Marhaba bi Habibi” and “Quratu Aini Muhammad Bin Abdullah” and then kisses his both the thumbs and keeps it on his eyes, then he will never become blind and his eyes will never be sore.” (Maqaaside Husna). —- In fiqh, the discussion of taqbil al-unbulatayn wa mash al-’aynayn is usually found at the end of Bab Adhan. Certain gestures performed during the adhan, and specifically the ‘amal of kissing the thumbs and wiping the eye, are something known to Shafi’is, and there can be no objection whatsoever by our jurists (and any jurists for that matter) to those wishing to perform this ‘amal: as far as we are concerned, it is classified under the category of the Fada’il al-A’mal [i'anat, 1:243; al-Jurdani, Fath al-'Allam, 2:140-1]. Among its legal bases ['ilal] is that it is a Sunna of the first Khalifa of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him!) [i.e., an Athar of the first Khalifa], and it is also based on a number of Hadiths, of which the most well known is the Hadith of Abu Bakr (may Allah be well pleased with him!).

Shahru Ramadhan from Al Ghawth Shaykh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may (learn) self restraint." (Al-Qur`an, 2:183) - So fasting helps learn self-restraint, (Taqwa) Begins with Mercy :- 1 st 10 days, Middle is Forgiveness 2nd 20 days, Ends with deliverance from Hell :- 3rd 30 days Who ever fasts will walk through the 8 th gate of Heaven called Rayyan. It is reserved only for the people of fasting. It is the month of Sabr – patient and charitable sharing. Cultivate 4 practices and repeat them frequently which; 2 will earn your Lords pleasure 2 you just cannot afford to do without 1 st Dhikr of Shahadah la-e-laha-illal-lah 2 nd Begging for Forgiveness i.e. Astaghfirullah, Rab-bigh-fir-lee 3 rd Imploring to be granted the Garden of Paradise 4 th Taking Refuge from the Fire of Hell i.e. Allahumma jarnee min-nan-nar It called Ramadhan because it has is a scorching effect upon sins; it burns sins away. So our bodies and hearts experience a process of purification. [so you could also understand it as, purifying yourself on earth or wait and be purified in the burning of hell fire the choice is yours ] The sleeping of the one fasting is an act of ibadah –worship, as there silence is tasbih – saying subhanallah; moreover his dua's are sure to be answered and this good deeds will be multiplied. Three types of people pray are answered, one of them is the one Fasting. So ask many dua's while fasting. Also the fast is a junna (suit of armour, protective shield) for the one who fast. While doing voluntarily ibadh like nafl or dhikr at night, read from the noble Quran the verse " Inna Fa-tahna laka fath-hum-mubeena "- We have surely given you a signal victory (48:1) That person will receive a guarantee of safekeeping for the whole year. So read it frequently. Every month one should try to fast al-ayyum al-bid – [White nights] which is 13 th 14 th 15 th nights of every month as the reward from the 1 st is 10,000 rewards, 2 nd 30,000 rewards, 3 rd 300,000 rewards. Every Sajdah – prostration is 1700 rewards. Also every nafl has the equivalent of a fard pray that is 70 times. As a fard is 70 times more than a nafl pray. Only on Friday and Shahru Ramadhan there is no Hisaab – [reckoning] given if you spend your wealth. For you will be questioned on how to spent your wealth on the day of Reckoning, expect Friday and Shahru Ramadhan. The garden of Paradise will be refurbished and re-decorated every month of Ramadhan and the maidens of Paradise will splendidly adorn themselves and be requesting for a suitor to marry. No servant who keeps the fast at least one day of the month of Ramadhan, can possibly fail to be married to a wife from brides of Paradise. Who ever provides Iftar –[breaking of Fast] for someone, will be forgiven for their sins and earn freeing from hellfire, also be granted the rewards of actions of the one fasting, without the one fasting losing anything. Even if giving a dried date, you will be rewarded. Providing a satisfying Iftar you will be rewarded by drinking from the hawd –[basin] of Allah; you will never feel thirsty after drinking it. In this Month Allah will ask 3 times "Does anyone have a request to make, so I may grant his request? Is there anyone who wishes to repent, so that I may relent towards him and accept his repentance? Is there anyone wishing to seek forgiveness, so I may forgive him?…" Warning ! Do not say Ramadhan in a sentence, say like the Quran says Shahru Ramadhan 2:185 There are many that fast by the day and get nothing but hunger and thirst and by the night spend it in qiyam layla – [ night vigil ]pray and get nothing but insomnia. Why? Looking with desire, backbite, lying breaks the fast. There are 4 exception who will not be forgiven in the month of Ramadhan Addicted to alcohol Disobedient and disrespectful towards parents Guilty of disrupting bonds of kinship – relatives and families fighting Reluctant to abandon a grudge and stubbornly unwilling to accept the restoration of good relations with anyone who has offended him. Excerpts from Al-Ghunya li-Talibi Tariq al-Haqq Vol.3 by Shaykh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani

Shahru Ramadhan from Al Ghawth Shaykh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may (learn) self restraint." (Al-Qur`an, 2:183) - So fasting helps learn self-restraint, (Taqwa) Begins with Mercy :- 1 st 10 days, Middle is Forgiveness 2nd 20 days, Ends with deliverance from Hell :- 3rd 30 days Who ever fasts will walk through the 8 th gate of Heaven called Rayyan. It is reserved only for the people of fasting. It is the month of Sabr – patient and charitable sharing. Cultivate 4 practices and repeat them frequently which; 2 will earn your Lords pleasure 2 you just cannot afford to do without 1 st Dhikr of Shahadah la-e-laha-illal-lah 2 nd Begging for Forgiveness i.e. Astaghfirullah, Rab-bigh-fir-lee 3 rd Imploring to be granted the Garden of Paradise 4 th Taking Refuge from the Fire of Hell i.e. Allahumma jarnee min-nan-nar It called Ramadhan because it has is a scorching effect upon sins; it burns sins away. So our bodies and hearts experience a process of purification. [so you could also understand it as, purifying yourself on earth or wait and be purified in the burning of hell fire the choice is yours ] The sleeping of the one fasting is an act of ibadah –worship, as there silence is tasbih – saying subhanallah; moreover his dua's are sure to be answered and this good deeds will be multiplied. Three types of people pray are answered, one of them is the one Fasting. So ask many dua's while fasting. Also the fast is a junna (suit of armour, protective shield) for the one who fast. While doing voluntarily ibadh like nafl or dhikr at night, read from the noble Quran the verse " Inna Fa-tahna laka fath-hum-mubeena "- We have surely given you a signal victory (48:1) That person will receive a guarantee of safekeeping for the whole year. So read it frequently. Every month one should try to fast al-ayyum al-bid – [White nights] which is 13 th 14 th 15 th nights of every month as the reward from the 1 st is 10,000 rewards, 2 nd 30,000 rewards, 3 rd 300,000 rewards. Every Sajdah – prostration is 1700 rewards. Also every nafl has the equivalent of a fard pray that is 70 times. As a fard is 70 times more than a nafl pray. Only on Friday and Shahru Ramadhan there is no Hisaab – [reckoning] given if you spend your wealth. For you will be questioned on how to spent your wealth on the day of Reckoning, expect Friday and Shahru Ramadhan. The garden of Paradise will be refurbished and re-decorated every month of Ramadhan and the maidens of Paradise will splendidly adorn themselves and be requesting for a suitor to marry. No servant who keeps the fast at least one day of the month of Ramadhan, can possibly fail to be married to a wife from brides of Paradise. Who ever provides Iftar –[breaking of Fast] for someone, will be forgiven for their sins and earn freeing from hellfire, also be granted the rewards of actions of the one fasting, without the one fasting losing anything. Even if giving a dried date, you will be rewarded. Providing a satisfying Iftar you will be rewarded by drinking from the hawd –[basin] of Allah; you will never feel thirsty after drinking it. In this Month Allah will ask 3 times "Does anyone have a request to make, so I may grant his request? Is there anyone who wishes to repent, so that I may relent towards him and accept his repentance? Is there anyone wishing to seek forgiveness, so I may forgive him?…" Warning ! Do not say Ramadhan in a sentence, say like the Quran says Shahru Ramadhan 2:185 There are many that fast by the day and get nothing but hunger and thirst and by the night spend it in qiyam layla – [ night vigil ]pray and get nothing but insomnia. Why? Looking with desire, backbite, lying breaks the fast. There are 4 exception who will not be forgiven in the month of Ramadhan Addicted to alcohol Disobedient and disrespectful towards parents Guilty of disrupting bonds of kinship – relatives and families fighting Reluctant to abandon a grudge and stubbornly unwilling to accept the restoration of good relations with anyone who has offended him. Excerpts from Al-Ghunya li-Talibi Tariq al-Haqq Vol.3 by Shaykh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani

A man entered the masjid when it was not the time for Prayer, and he found a ten-year-old boy praying with proper focus and humility. He waited until the boy had finished praying, then he greeted him, and said, "Whose son are you?" The boy lowered his head and a tear rolled down his cheek, then he raised his head, and said, "O uncle, I am an orphan who has no father or mother." The man felt sorry for him, and said, "Would you like to be my son?" The boy said, "If I get hungry will you feed me?" The man said, "Yes." The boy said, "If I am naked will you clothe me?" The man said, "Yes." The boy said, "If I fall ill will you cure me?" "I am not able to do that, my son." The boy said, "If I die will you bring me back to life?" The man said, "I am not able to do that." The boy said, "Then, leave me uncle, to the One who created me, for He will guide me, and He is the One who gives me food and drink. If I fall sick He heals me, and He is the One who, I hope, will forgive me on the Day of Judgment." The man fell silent and went on his way, saying, "I believe in Allah. Whoever puts his trust in Allah, Allah will suffice him." No matter how overwhelmed you are by grief and despair, you will not be able to bring back any past events. Remember that Allah's mercy embraces all things. Remember Almighty Allah who says: (Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.) (Ar-Ra`d 13:28)

We might not realize the greatness of the month that is upon us but Insha Allah we should try to spend this month the way Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and his blessed Companions did, as we will learn hereunder. Hazrat Aisha Siddiqa (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) has said, “Allah’s Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) used to fast until we would say he was never going to stop fasting, and he would go so long without fasting that we would say he was never going to fast, but I never saw Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) fasting from the beginning to the end of any month except the month of Ramadaan, and I never saw him do more fasting in any month than he did in Shabaan.” Hazrat Aisha (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) also stated, “The fasting Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) liked best was that which he did in Shabaan, so I said to him, ‘O Messenger of Allah how is it that I always see you fasting in Shabaan?’ and Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) replied, ‘O Aisha, it is the month in which the Angel of Death has to note down the names of anyone whose soul he must take before the year is out, so I would rather he did not record my name except while I am fasting.’” Hazrat Abu Huraira (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) reports that, “The Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) never fasted throughout the whole of any month outside Ramadaan, apart from Rajab and Shabaan.” Hazrat Anas ibn Malik (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) reports that when Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was asked about the most meritorious fasting, he replied, “Fasting in Shabaan in honour of Ramadaan.” Hazrat Abdullah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Anyone who fasts on the last Monday of Shabaan will be granted forgiveness.” Hazrat Ubaidullah ibn Qais (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) once heard Hazrat Aisha Siddiqa (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) say, “The dearest of months to Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was Shabaan, which he would link to Ramadaan.” Hazrat Abu Huraira (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) once said, “Shabaan is my month, Rajab is the month of Allah, and Ramadaan is the month of my Ummah. Shabaan is the expiator while Ramadaan is the purifier.” Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) also said, “Shabaan is the month between Rajab and Ramadaan. People tend to neglect it, but that is when the deeds of His servants ascend to the Lord of the Worlds, so I would rather mine rose up while I was fasting.” Hazrat Anas ibn Malik (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) states that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “The excellence of Rajab over other months is like the excellence of the Qur’an over all other speech, while the excellence of Shabaan over other months is like my excellence over the rest of the Prophets, and the excellence of Ramadaan over other months is like the excellence of Allah over all His creatures.” Hazrat Anas (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) also reports that when the Companions of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) beheld the new moon of Shabaan, they would immerse themselves in reading the Holy Qur’an. The Muslims would pay their Zakaat assessed on their wealth, thereby providing the means for the weak and the poor to fortify themselves in preparation for the fasting of the month of Ramadaan. The governors would summon the prison inmates, to carry out the sentence on those convicted of major offences under Islamic Law, and to set the rest free. Businessmen would set about paying their debts and collecting their dues. Then, when they beheld the new moon of Ramadaan, they would bathe themselves and devote themselves to worship. Shabaan is a month in which the treasures are laid open, in which blessings are sent down, in which faults are forsworn, in which sins are expiated, and in which benedictions are multiplied upon the best of creation, Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Far from being negligent during this month, therefore, every conscientious believer is obliged to exert himself in preparation for the coming month of Ramadaan, using the days that remain to get clear of sins and repent those committed in the past. One should beseech Almighty Allah in the month of Shabaan. One should appeal to Allah Ta’ala through the owner of the month, Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), until the corruption of one’s heart is corrected, and the sickness of one’s inner being is cured. This must be done without delay and not put off until tomorrow, for the days are three: yesterday, which is a date in history; today, which is a time for action; and tomorrow, which is a hopeful expectation, for whether you will get there or not is beyond your ken. Thus yesterday is a caution, today is an opportunity and tomorrow is a risk. The months are likewise three: Rajab, now past and gone beyond return; Ramadaan, awaiting in a future you may not live to see; and in between we have Shabaan, so let us seize this opportunity for worshipful devotion. Hazrat Zunnoon Misri (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) has said the following, “Rajab is the month of sowing, Shabaan is the month of watering and Ramadaan is the month of the harvest. Everyone reaps what he sows, and everyone is recompensed for what he does. If a person wastes the time he should devote to cultivation, he will regret it on his day of harvesting. He will realize in retrospect that he was sowing nothing but a bleak future for himself.” [Compiled from Ghunyalit Taalibi Tareeqal Haqq by Hazrat Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh] May Allah Ta’ala through the Sadaqa of our Beloved Master Muhammad Mustafa Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam grant us the Taufeeq to do much fasting and repentance during this month and to prepare ourselves for the blessed month of Ramadaan, Ameen.

Angels are made of Noor (light) and can change themselves into any shape they like. But they never do anything against the Command of Almighty Allah. They are faultless servants of Allah Ta’ala and are free from sins. Angels have no gender and are therefore neither male nor female. Angels have separate functions to carry out. Some of them are responsible for rain while others are responsible for supplying provisions to worldly creatures. Some angels shape faces inside the mothers’ wombs while some take care of the changes in human bodies. Some provide protection to living human beings from their enemies while some move about to attend gatherings that are held in the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala and His Beloved Rasool (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Some are created to send Durood and Salaam upon our Beloved Aaqa Muhammad Mustafa (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) while others are created to glorify and praise Allah Ta’ala. While the creation of man was effected through a gradual and systematic process, namely, the stage of dust, which was then shaped into a human form and finally the bequeathing of the soul in him, angels on the other hand are created by Allah Ta’ala’s Supreme Command “Be” and they become, i.e. they come into existence. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has stated, “Angels are created from light, the Jinns from fire containing smoke, and Nabi Adam (Alaihis Salaam) from that already mentioned to you. (Namely black, white and red sand as narrated from Ummul Mu’mineen Hazrat Ayesha Siddiqah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha). [sahih Muslim] Hazrat Sayyiduna Imam Abdur Razzaaq (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates another Hadith Shareef from Sayyiduna Jaabir bin Abdullah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) in which Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is reported to have stated, “O Jaabir! Most certainly Almighty Allah Created the Noor (Light) of your Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) before anything else. Then, when He decided to create the world, He divided the Noor (light) of your Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) into four portions. From the first portion, He created the Qalam, from the second, the Lohe-Mahfooz, from the third, the Divine portions. From the first of the Divine portions, He created those angels who are the bearers of the Arsh (Divine Throne), from the second, the Kursi (Divine Chair) and from the third, the rest of the angels.” [Al Musannaf ] Allama Faasi (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) has recorded the following Hadith from Imam Ash’ari (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) who narrates that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Verily, Almighty Allah is an Incomparable Light, the soul of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is the splendid glow of that Light. Almighty Allah first created my Noor (light) and from this Noor He created everything else.” [Mutaaliul Musarrat ] Sayyiduna Abu Shaikh (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates the following Hadith from Hazrat Akramah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) who reports that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has stated, “Most certainly, angels are created from the Divine Noor (Light) of Allah.” [Fathul Baari ] A commentary of Imam Badruddeen Mahmood ‘Ainee (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) of a similar Hadith carries an interesting observation of Hazrat Sayyiduna Ali (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) wherein he mentions, “There is an angel named Rooh, who has seventy thousand heads. Each head has seventy thousand faces; each face contains seventy thousand mouths. Each mouth is made up of seventy thousand tongues and each tongue is blessed with seventy thousand languages. By means of these languages, this Angel is constantly reciting the Tasbeeh of Almighty Allah. From each Tasbeeh, one Angel is being created, which soars into the Heavens with the rest of the Angels until the Day of Judgment.” [umdatul Qaari Sharah Sahih Bukhari ] Imam Ibn Hajr Qastalaani (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) states: “There is a celestial world found in the Heaven (made from water and smoke), wherein are angels created from water and air. The leader of these Angels is Ra’ad, who is responsible for the clouds and rain.” [Mawaahibul Ladunniya] Hazrat Abu Sa’eed (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates the following Hadith of Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in which it is stated, “Verily, there is a river in Heaven, in which whenever Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) submerges his wings and shakes it, small droplets of water drip from it. From each droplet, an angel is created.” [Fathul Baari ] One cannot fathom the number of angels created here because Sayyiduna Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) has six hundred wings and each wing is so huge that when he spreads it, it casts a shadow over the entire sky. It is reported by Hazrat Abu Hurairah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has stated, “In the fourth Heaven, there is a river called Haywaan (River of Life). Each day Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) dips in it and shakes his wings letting off seventy thousand drops. From each of these droplets Almighty Allah creates one angel. These angels are commanded to perform Salaah in the Baitul Ma’moor. As soon as they perform Salaah, they come out from the Baitul Ma’moor never to return. One angel from this group is appointed their leader and he is delegated the duty of taking these angels to one spot in the Heaven where they will stand reciting the Tasbeeh of Almighty Allah till the Day of Judgment.” [Do’faa Al Aqeeli ] Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbaas (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has stated, “On the right-hand side of the Arsh is found a River of Light, which in magnitude is equal to the seven Heavens, the seven crusts of the earth and the seven oceans. In it Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) bathes each morning, whereby his brightness and beauty is constantly increased. When Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) comes out of this water, he flutters his wings. From each drop that fall from his wings, a thousand angels are created and from this multitude of angels, seventy thousand are commanded to enter the Baitul Ma’moor, none of whom will get another chance to enter this illustrious place until the Day of Judgment.” [Tafseer-e-Kabeer] Imam Bayhaqi (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates a Hadith that has been narrated by several Sahaabah, in which Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has stated, “There are some angels of Almighty Allah whose every limb trembles from the constant fear of Allah. Whichever of these angels sheds a tear, it is immediately transformed into an angel before that tear can even reach the ground.” [Kitaabur Ruhya] It is reported from Sayyiduna Abu Shaikh (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) who narrates from Hazrat Ka’ab Al Ahbaar (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) that, “Whichever of these angels sheds a tear, it changes into an angel and flies away with the Fear of Allah.” Hazrat Sayyiduna Anas (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) narrates a Hadith in which Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has stated, “Whosoever sends a Durood Shareef upon me with the intention of honouring me, Almighty Allah will transform that Durood Shareef into an angel, whose one wing spreads to the East and one to the West. Allah Ta’ala commands this angel, “O My Angel! Send Durood upon my servant as he has sent Durood upon My Beloved Habeeb (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam).” In response to this Divine Command, the angel will continue to send Durood upon the person till the Day of Judgement. Similarly, Aarif-e-Billah Hazrat Maulana Naqi Ali Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) reports a Hadith from Imam Sakhaawi (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) in which Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has stated, “There is one angel of Almighty Allah whose one side is in the East and one (side) is in the West. When anyone sends Durood Shareef upon me out of love and devotion, this angel dives into the Heavenly water and flutters his wings. From each drop that falls from his wings, Almighty Allah creates one angel who will be reciting Istighfaar (seeking pardon) for this person until the Day of Judgment.” [Al Kalaamul Awdah fi Tafseer-e- Sura Alam Nashrah] It is stated in Mawaahibul Ladunniya, “There are some angels who are constantly engaged in reciting the Tasbeeh of Allah. For every Tasbeeh they recite, Almighty Allah creates one angel.” Hazrat Imam Abdul Wahab Sha’raani (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) states, “Angels are created from the breath of pious people. Those that are created from the breath of pious women acquire greater beauty and chastity than those created from the breaths of men.” [Meezanush Shari’atul Kubra] [Compiled from “The Creation of Angels” by A’la Hazrat Imam Ahle Sunnat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan Qadri Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh] We see here that Allah Ta’ala through His Incomprehensible and Infinite Qudrat creates angels in so many ways and in such numbers that are beyond our insignificant intellectual capacities. May Allah Ta’ala increase our knowledge and grant us the Taufeeq to ponder over His Qudrat, His Creations and His Signs, Ameen.

A man woke up early in order to Pray the Fajr Prayer in the masjid. He got dressed, made his ablution and was on his way to the masjid. On his way to the masjid, the man fell and his clothes got dirty. He got up, brushed himself off, and headed home. At home, He changed His Clothes, made his ablution, and was, again, on his way to the masjid. On his way to the masjid, He Fell again and at the Same Spot! He, again, got up, brushed himself off and headed home. At home he, once again, Changed His Clothes, made his ablution and was on his way to the masjid. On his way to the masjid, He Met a Man Holding a Lamp. He asked the man of his identity and the man replied 'I Saw You Fall Twice on your way to the masjid, So I Brought a Lamp so I can Light Your Way.' The first man thanked him profusively and the two where on their way to the masjid. Once at the masjid, the first man asked the man with the lamp to come in and pray Fajr with him. The second man refused. The first man asked him a couple more times and, again, the answer was the same. The first man asked him why he did not wish to come in and pray. He man replied I am Shetaan(devil/ evil) The man was shocked at this reply. Shetan went on to explain, 'I saw you on your way to the masjid and it was I who made you fall. When you went home, cleaned yourself and went back on your way to the masjid, Allah forgave all of your sins. I made you fall a second time, and even that did not encourage you to stay home, but rather, you went back on your way to the masjid. Because of that, Allah forgave all the sins of the people of your household . I was AFRAID if i made you fall one more time, then Allah will forgive the sins of the people of your village, so I made sure that you reached the masjid safely..' So do not let Shetan benefit from his actions. Do not put off a good that you intended to do as you never know how much reward you might receive from the hardships you encounter while trying to achieve that good. If forwarding this message will bother you, or take too much time from you, then don't do it, but you will not get the reward of it, which is great. Imagine, that when you forward this, you receive 240 good deeds, and so will I for sending it to you! Wouldn't it be easy just to Press Forward ' and receive this Reward? May Allah (Subhana Ho Wataallah) grant us a perfect Muslim Heart n we all do Prayers with our Heart and Soul... ............. ......... ......Ameen Dau Ki Darkhuas

Love towards all Malice towards none (excerpted from "The Greatest Preacher of Islam & A Messenger of Peace and Love" from the committee of the Dargah Sharif, Ajmer, Rajistan, India) [1] Historical Sketch It is a well known historical fact that in spreading the ethical and spiritual values of Islam, major and effective contributions have been made by the walis (saints) of Allah. It was their humanism, disposition and piety which won over the hearts of hundreds of thousands of people. They contacted the masses directly. They served and loved them. They lived with them and inspired them in the realisation of Eternal Truth. The proof of this is more than evident from the history of the growth of Islam in India. Although India was penetrated in the first century of Hijra, the noble task of inspiring the people to its tenets and values was accomplished by Hazrat Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti, r.a. popularly known as Khwaja Sahib and Khwaja Gharib Nawaz. He did it all through his own great moral power, glorious and appealing character, with love and dedication to mankind, without any worldly resources of wealth, power, force or support. Khwaja Sahib was a scholar of great repute. He interpreted the true Islamic message of love for mankind and through that, love for the Almighty Creator. He preached the Qur'anic philosophy of unity of religion and worked out its potentialities for the whole of humanity. He was the greatest mystic of his time. He laid the foundation of the liberal Chishtia order of Sufis in India, and inspired millions of souls to be his followers, and thus served the masses of the Indian sub-continent. Hazrat Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti (r.a.) Birth: Early life and Education Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti, r.a. was born in Seistan (East Persia) also known as Sajistan, around 533 Hijri (1138-39 A.D.) in a well respected family. His father, Khwaja Ghayasuddin, r.a. and mother, Syeda Bibi Ummalwara (alias Bibi Mahe-Noor), were the descendants of Hazrat Ali, r.a. through his sons Imam Hassan and Imam Hussain. Khwaja Sahib lost both his father and mother at an early age of sixteen years. He inherited an orchard and millstone which were his means of livelihood. One day when Khwaja Sahib was working in his orchard, a pious dervish and majzoob, Ebrahim Qandoozi, came and took his seat under the shade of a tree. When Khwaja Sahib saw him, he brought a bunch of grapes and presented it to his guest. The visitor ate the grapes and was delighted. He then took something out of his bag, chewed it, then offered it to his young host. Khwaja Sahib ate it without any hesitation, and at once the light of wisdom and knowledge dawned upon the young Khwaja. Immediately he disposed of all of his worldly belongings and distributed the money amongst the poor. Having thus broken all the ties with worldly affairs, he set off for Samarkand and Bokhara then the great centres of learning for religious education and knowledge. Spiritual Guidance When Khwaja Sahib had acquired the best knowledge and wisdom of the time, he travelled widely in search of a Pir (spiritual guide) who could provide him with the best spiritual guidance. He came to know of Hazrat Khwaja Usman Harooni , r.a, who was the greatest scholar and unrivalled spiritual guide of that period. In the very first meeting, Khwaja Sahib completely submitted himself to his Murshid and remained in the company of this great divine spiritual leader, for twenty years and served him devotedly, passing through the various stages of spiritual life. Thus the great Murshid trained and elevated Khwaja Sahib to the highest spiritual attainments. Hajj and the Prophet's Command As the great Khwaja Sahib became accomplished and perfect in every respect, the divine tutor honoured him with the robe and took him to Hajj. Both then proceeded to Mecca and performed the Hajj, and then went to Medina and stayed there for some time, to receive blessings from the prophet of Islam One night, while in a trance, he was ordered by the Holy Prophet Muhammad : "O Muinuddin! you are a prop of our faith. Proceed to India and show the Path of Truth to the people there." In compliance with the above spiritual command, Khwaja Sahib left Medina for India. He continued his journey, passing through Isfahan, Bokhara, Herat, Lahore and Delhi meeting several prominent Sufis of the period. He arrived at the barren and desolate land of Rajputana which is now known as Rajasthan. On his way to India, he enrolled large numbers of people into his fold and blessed thousands of others with spiritual power. Khwaja Sahib at Ajmer, India Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti, r.a., arrived in Ajmer at the age of 52 years around 587 A.H. (1190 A.D.), on his divine mission, unique in the annals of Islam. His only armour for the success of his great mission was the greatest "invisible power" that pervades and sustains the whole universe. At that time, Ajmer was ruled by Prithvi Raj Chauhan, the famous Rajput king. In his court, he had a large number of powerful magicians with Ajai Pal as their leader. Khwaja Sahib stayed on a hill close to Ana Sagar lake now known as the Chillah Khwaja Sahib. When the news spread that a very pious Dervish had come to Ajmer, people began to flock to him in increasing numbers. Whoever came to him, received the kindest treatment and blessings. People were so much inspired by his divine teachings and simplicity that they began to embrace Islam. Many became his disciples. Even Ajai pal submitted himself to the divine powers of Khwaja Sahib, gave up all his magic and became his disciple. Meanwhile, Shahabuddin Ghori again attacked India, in 1192 A.D., and in the famous battle of Tarain, defeated Prithvi Raj. When Shahabuddin Ghori came to know of the presence of Khwaja Sahib at Ajmer, he personally came to see him at his place, and enjoyed the grace of his meeting. Khwaja Sahib continued his noble magnificent mission, showing the Path of Truth to the people. He also sent his disciples and successors to the different part of the country who also served the people and preached the tenets of Islam. A few of his prominent successors are: 1. Hazrat Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Khaki, r.a. (Delhi. ob. 1236) 2. Hazrat Shaikh Fariduddin Ganj-e-shakar, r.a., (Pak Pattan ob. 1265) 3. Hazrat Shaikh Nizamuddin Awlia (Delhi, ob. 1325) 4. Hazrat Shaikh Nasiruddin Chiragh Delhi (Delhi, ob. 1356) Khwaja Sahib Breathes His Last After achieving the objectives of his mission and complying with the command given to him by the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.), his noble soul left the mortal body on the 6th of Rajab 633 A.H. (March 16, 1236) at the age of 97. He was buried in the same cell which was the centre for his divine activities, throughout his stay at Ajmer. Today his tomb is popularly known as The Dargah Sharif (holy tomb). People of all walks of life and faith from all over the world, irrespective of their caste, creed and belief, visit this great shrine to offer the flowers of their esteem and devotion. The rich and the poor stand side by side to pay homage and respect to this divine soul. Mission and Teaching of Khwaja Sahib The life and mission of Khwaja Sahib have been of an exceptional character as compared with any other saints in India. His simple teaching penetrated even the stoniest of hearts, his affectionate look silenced his fiercest of enemies. His matchless piety and blessings knew no distinction and his "Spiritual Power", amazed and defied his bitterest adversaries who came in order to harm him, but were inspired instead to embrace Islam and become his devotees for the rest of their lives. He brought the message of Universal Love and Peace. He chose the way of non-compulsion in the true spirit of the Holy Qur'an, which says: "Let there be no compulsion in religion. Truth stands out clear from error; whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold that never breaks. And Allah heareth and knoweth all things." [Qur'an 2:256] Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti, r.a. followed this dictum strictly throughout his mission. It is because of this that he became popularly known as Gharib Nawaz, which means 'the one who shows kindness to the poor'. This was later reinforced by succeeding Chishti Sufis, who became religious pioneers in national integration in the country. They fulfilled the objectives of bringing together the various castes, communities and races, elevating humanity from the swamp of materialistic concerns, which is leading mankind to destruction even today. The teachings of Khwaja Sahib have been recorded in several books on mysticism. The essence of his teachings are: The true friend of Allah is one who has these three qualities: 1. A friend of God must have affection like the sun. When the sun rises, it is beneficial to all. All persons derive heat and light from it irrespective of whether they are Muslim, Christian, Seik, Hindu, etc. 2. A friend of God must be generous like an ocean or a river. We all get water from the river or sea to quench our thirst. No discrimination is made whether we are good or bad or whether we are a relation or a stranger. 3. A friend of God is one who has the quality of hospitality like the earth. We are raised and cradled in its lap, and it is always spread below our feet. The noblest of characters is possessed by one who is: 1. Bountiful in poverty. 2. Content in hunger. 3. Cheerful in grief. 4. Friendly in hostility. The surest way to ward off the eternal punishment of hell is: 1. To feed the hungry. 2. To redress the aggrieved. 3. To help the distressed. Sacred Sayings of Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti, r.a. 1. Without performing Namaz (prayer), none can approach Allah (God), because Namaz is the climax (mi'raj) in the process of such an approach for the pious. 2. If all the rules of Namaz were not followed properly, it is struck back on the face of him who offers such a Namaz. 3. The heart of a lover (True lover of Allah) constantly burns with the fire of love, so much so that whatever intrudes upon its sanctity is burnt to ashes. 4. A sin committed does not harm an individual so much as looking down upon one's own fellow human beings. 5. Of all the worship that pleases Almighty Allah, the most is the granting of relief to the humble and the oppressed. 6. Performance of charity is the key of attaining the estate of a philanthropist. 7. The one who does not perform devotion of Allah is engaged in the career of earning a sinful living. 8. There are four cardinal virtues of the individual self: (i) refraining from begging in the state of penury; (ii) showing the attitude of being well-fed when feeling hungry; (iii) maintaining a cheerfulness in the time of sorrow; and (iv) befriending the enemy. 9. That man is a true devotee of Almighty Allah, who resigns with pleasure to the misfortune that comes from his beloved (Almighty Allah). 10. The path of Love of God is such a path that whosoever steps into it, loses himself. 11. For a follower of the path of Truth, it is worse than sin to disdain or look down upon anyone. 12. Those who are true Lovers of God give away both of the worlds for the sake of their Beloved and even then feel that they have done nothing worthy. 13. Perfection in faith is evident by three things: (i) Fear, (ii) Hope, and (iii) Love

Naath is the name given to the poetry that has been written in praise of Rasoolullah . Many Blessed Companions (Sahaaba) were skilled in the art of writing poetry in praise of Rasoolullah . The Holy Prophet asked his Sahaaba if anyone of them were prepared to do Jihad with the tongue, against the disbelievers and Hazrat Hassaan bin Thaabit (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) volunteered for this. He would then stand and recite naaths whilst Rasoolullah and other Sahaaba would listen. Hazrat Aisha Siddiqa (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anha) narrates that Rasoolullah would place a Mimbar (pulpit) in Masjid-e-Nabawi Shareef for Hazrat Hassaan bin Thaabit (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), so that he would stand upon it and recite poetry in praise of Rasoolullah , or defend Rasoolullah in reply to the accusations of the kuffaar. The Beloved Rasool made the following Dua for him, “O Allah, assist Hassaan through Hazrat Jibra’eel Alaihis Salaam.” [bukhari Shareef; Shamaail-e-Tirmidhi ] Rasoolullah further stated, “Hazrat Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) is with him (Hazrat Hassaan) while he answers the slander of the kuffaar against me, through poetry.” [Zarqaani, Vol. 3] A’la Hazrat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) states in the love and respect of Hazrat Hassaan bin Thaabit (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh): Karam-e-Naath Ke Nazdeek Tho Kuch Door Nahi Ke Raza-e-Ajami Ho Sage Hassan Arab Rasoolullah used to listen to Naath Shareef and used to bless Hazrat Hassaan bin Thaabit (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) with his kindness in such ways that sometimes Rasoolullah gave him his shawl, sometimes he prepared the Mimbar for him and sometimes he blessed him with his Duas. This means that Rasoolullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) becomes pleased when he hears his Naath being recited. A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) says that no one is remote from the kindness of Rasoolullah and hence makes a request in this verse saying that may Rasoolullah fix him, the non-Arab as the dog of Hazrat Hassaan bin Thaabit (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), the Arab. [sharha Hadaaiqe Bakhshish] Below is one of the beautiful and well-known verses recited by Hazrat Hassaan bin Thaabit (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh): Wa Ahsanu Minka Lam Taraqattu 'Aini My eyes have never seen anyone more handsome than you Wa Ajmalu Minka Lam Talidin Nisaa'u Nor has any woman ever given birth to a more beautiful child than you Khuliqta Mubarra am Min Kulli 'Aibin You have been created free from all faults and imperfections Ka Annaka Qad Khuliqta Kama Tashaa'u It is as if you have been created as you desired to be created From this couplet we can see that the Sahaaba believed that Rasoolullah is perfect, yet we have misled sects in Islam today that claim to be Muslims but they insult Rasoolullah and try to find faults in him in every way. May Allah Ta’ala destroy such insolent people and keep us away from them. Hazrat Anas (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) reports that when Rasoolullah went to Makkah for Umratul Qaza, Hazrat Abdullah ibn Rawahah (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), throwing his sword over his shoulder and holding the reins of the camel of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah , was walking ahead of him reciting these couplets, “O non-believers, clear his path and leave today. Do not prohibit Sayyiduna Rasoolullah from entering Makkah as you had done last year for today we shall smite you. We will take such action against you that we will separate the brain from its body. And we will make a friend forget a friend.” Hazrat Umar (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) stopped him and said, “O Ibn Rawahah, in the presence of Rasoolullah and the Haram Shareef you are reciting poetry?” Rasoolullah replied, “Leave him O Umar, these couplets are more forceful than showering arrows onto them.” In another Hadith, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah has also stated, “A Mu’min makes Jihad with a sword and also with the tongue. This Jihad of the tongue is also like showering arrows. [shamaa’il-e- Tirmidhi ] It is concluded from these Ahadith that poetry is also a form of Jihad. From this we can understand that A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) was doing nothing but acting on these Ahadith and following the Sunnah of the Blessed Sahaabah when he wrote numerous Naaths in a time when Wahabism was rife and the Munafiqeen were trying to slander the blessed personality of Rasoolullah . The Glorious Qur’an itself is full of the praises of Rasoolullah . If one has to look at the Holy Qur’an closely, volumes could be written on how Allah Ta’ala honours and praises Rasoolullah in His Words. However, a few verses in honour and praise of Rasoolullah are being presented here. · “And We have exalted for you your remembrance” [surah 94, Verse 4] · “And We sent you not, but as a mercy unto all the worlds.” [surah 21, Verse 107] · “Whoso obeys the Messenger, has indeed obeyed Allah” [surah 4, Verse 80] · “Undoubtedly, you have the best in the following of the Messenger, for him who hopes for Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much.” [surah 33, Verse 21] · “We are seeing the turning of your face towards heaven repeatedly; necessarily then We will turn you towards that Qiblah which pleases you.” [surah 2, Verse 144] · “O believers! Raise not your voices above the voice of the Prophet and speak not aloud in presence of him as you shout to one another, lest your works become vain while you are unaware.” [surah 49, Verse 2] · “Assuredly there has come to you a messenger from among yourselves, heavy upon him is your suffering; ardently desirous of your welfare, and to Muslims is most Kind and Merciful.” [surah 9, Verse 128] · “And he is not miserly as to the disclosing of the unseen.” [surah 81, Verse 24] It is for this reason that A’la Hazrat Imam Ahle Sunnat Imam Ahmad Raza Khan (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) states in one of his naaths: Ay Raza Khud Sahib-e-Qur'an hain Maddaahe Huzoor Tujh se Kab Mumkin hain phir Midhat Rasoolullah Ki In this verse A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) says, “O Ahmad Raza, no matter how much you praise Rasoolullah you will never be able to duly and properly praise him because when his Rabb Himself has praised him, who then can do justice in praising Rasoolullah ?” In fact his name itself is Muhammad which means the one who is excessively praised. [sharha Hadaaiqe Bakhshish] When Rasoolullah reached Madina Shareef, the people of Banu Najaar stood on the roofs of their homes and the children welcomed Rasoolullah by greeting him with the following verses of poetry: Tala'al Badru Alaina Min Thaniyyatil Wadaa’i A crescent-moon dawns upon us from the valley of Wadaa Wajaba Shukru Alaina Mada'a Lillaahi Daa’i Gratitude to Allah is necessary upon us for as long as the supplicator to Allah supplicates [Zarqaani, Vol. 1] Hazrat Imam Zainul Aabideen (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) who is the son of Hazrat Imam Hussain (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) and was one of the greatest Aabids of his era said a few stanzas of Naath Shareef when he was returning to Madina Shareef after the Battle of Karbala. Two of those stanzas are presented here: Innilti Ya Reehas Saba Yauman Ilaa Ardil Haram Balligh Salaami Rowdatan Feehan Nabiyyul Muhtaram O Winds! If someday you pass by the sacred land, then pass my Salaams before the Rauza-e-Aqdas where the most exalted Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) rests Ya Rahmatallil Aalameen Adrik li Zainil Aabideen Mahboosi Aydiz Zaalimeen fil Maukabi wal Muzdaham O Mercy unto all the Worlds! Assist Zainul Aabideen Who is standing alone and in difficulty amongst the tyrants [Tazkira-e-Mashaaikh-e-Qadriya Razviya] Apart from this incident further showing the permissibility of Naath Shareef, we see also the belief of Hazrat Imam Zainul Aabideen (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) that it is permissible to ask Rasoolullah for help. Yet we get ignorant people today that say it is Shirk to ask Rasoolullah for anything. Balaghal Ula Bi Kamaalihi He reached all heights through his perfection Kashafad Duja Bi Jamaalihi He removed all darkness through his beautiful reflection Hasunath Jamee’u Khisaalihi Perfect was his each and every action Sallu Alaihi Wa Aalihi Send benedictions on him and his family When Shaikh Saadi (Rahmatullah Alaih) was writing these verses, he had no idea about what to write as the fourth line. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah then appeared to him in a dream and ordered him to write “Sallu Alaihi Wa Aalihi” as the fourth line. Again we see here the approval by Rasoolullah of poetry written in his praise and we also see the blessings that one receives from them. Mere Ash’aar he you laa’iq tehseen ay Khushtar Ke har misra he haasile naath me qand mukarrar ka This is a couplet written by the Qutub of Mauritius, Fakhrul Islam, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Ibrahim Khushtar Siddiqui Qadri Razvi (Rahmatullah Alaih), and he states here that the only reason his poetry is deserving of acclamation is because every line has been written in praise of Rasoolullah . In other words it is only because of the fact that those verses have praised Rasoolullah that they have become praiseworthy. From the proofs presented above we can therefore see that to listen to Naath Shareef is the Sunnah of our Beloved Master Muhammad Mustafa and to listen as well as to recite Naath-e-Paak is the Sunnah of the Blessed Sahaaba. Finally, Allah Ta’ala states in the Holy Qur’an, “And We have exalted for you your remembrance” [surah 94, Verse 4] When Allah Ta’ala Himself has exalted the remembrance of Rasoolullah who on earth then will have the power to lower it? The Munafiqeen can try as much as they want to lower the dignity and remembrance of Rasoolullah but they will never succeed. And to answer them we will present an apt couplet from a naath written by A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) in which he writes: Khaaq Ho Jaaye ‘Adoo Jal Kar Magar Hum Tho Raza Dam Main Jab tak Dam hain Zikr Unka Sunaate Jaayenge O the enemies of the remembrance of Rasoolullah ! You can burn and be reduced to ashes but as long as there is life present in my body I will continue to make the remembrance of my Master Muhammad Mustafa . [sharha Hadaaiqe Bakhshish] May Allah Ta’ala guide us in the footsteps of the Blessed Sahaaba and like A’la Hazrat (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh) requested in his naath, may we also be considered as the dogs of Hazrat Hassaan bin Thaabit (Radiallahu Ta’ala Anh), Ameen

Sahih Al-Bukhari Hadith Hadith 6.184 Narrated by Abu Bakr The Prophet said, "Time has come back to its original state which it had when Allah created the Heavens and the Earth; the year is twelve months, four of which are sacred. Three of them are in succession; Dhul-Qa'da, Dhul-Hijja and Al-Muharram, and (the fourth being) Rajab Mudar (named after the tribe of Mudar as they used to respect this month) which stands between Jumad (ath-thani) and Sha'ban." Sahih Al-Bukhari Hadith Hadith 4.419 Narrated by Abu Bakra The Prophet said. "(The division of time has turned to its original form which was current when Allah created the Heavens and the Earths. The year is of twelve months, out of which four months are sacred: Three are in succession Dhul-Qa'da, Dhul-Hijja and Muharram, and (the fourth is) Rajab of (the tribe of) Mudar which comes between Jumadi-ath-Thaniyah and Sha ban." 'Allahumma baa-rik-lanaa fee-rajaba wa sha'baana wa bal-lig-naa shah-ra ramadhaana.' 'O Allah, make the months of Rajab and Shabaan blessed for us, and let us reach the month of Ramadhan.' Rajab Allah's month The Holy Month of Rajab Starts 7th/ 8th August 2005 Brief Ibaadah - Schedule dates that need to be observed for max barakah note: Read 30 rakah on 1st 15th and 30th of Rajab pray 10 rakat nafil namaz in 2 rakat salam. In each rakat after Alhamdo pray Surah Kaferoon 3 times and Surah Ikhlas (kulhuwalla) 3 times each has its dua 1- Fast -1st day of Rajab have Ghusl- bath for cleansing all sins - pray 10 rakat nafil namaz in 2 rakat salam. In each rakat after Alhamdo pray Surah Kaferoon 3 times and Surah Ikhlas (kulhuwalla) 3 times. After completing the namaz - Dua for 1st Rajab: "La Ilaha illallaho wahdahu la sharika lahu lahul-mulko walahul-hamdo yoh-yi wa yo mito wahuwa hay-yil-la yamuto biyaaadie-hil -khair wahuwa ala kulle shai-een kadir, Allahumma la man-a. le maa aat-taa, wa la mua-tiya, le maa man-aata, wa layunfeo zuljadde min-kal jaddo. 2- Fast 1st Friday night (Thursday night in Islam) Night of wishes laylat al-ragha'ib - In the evening between Maghrib and `Isha, perform 12 units (Rak'at) of prayer, in two's (i.e. two at a time). In each unit recite: 3 times Sura-al-Qadr & then 12 times (Qul huwallahu) followed with dua - read below full details 3-Fast -15th day of Rajab Ghusl- bath -for cleansing all sins- pray 10 rakah like 1st and with Dua : "Illahan-wahedan, ahadan samadan wa faradaow wa witran lam yattakhiz sahebataow wa la waladan." 4- Fast -27th Mi'raj Night much ibdaah to do - to be added 5- Fast -30th day of Rajab Ghusl- bath -for cleansing all sins - Pray 10 rakah like 1st day t with Dua - ast day of Rajab: "Allahumma sallai ala Sayidina Mohammadiuw wa all hittaherin, wa la hawla kuwwata ilia billa-hil Aliyil Azim. " After reciting the above 30 rakah, pray for whatever your requirements. Insha-Allah these will be answered, and on the day of resurrection, there will be 70 trenches between you and Hell and each of these trenches will be so wide it would take 500 years to cross one. In addition each rakat has the reward of 1000 rakats. Everyday read 'Allahumma baa-rik-lanaa fee-rajaba wa sha'baana wa bal-lig-naa shah-ra ramadhaana.' see top for arabic 'O Allah, make the months of Rajab and Shabaan blessed for us, and let us reach the month of Ramadhan.' Dua of Wali Abbas will be added read 3 times a day Arabic prescribed by Shaykh Nazim Ali Haqqani to read Dua of Wali Abbas will be added read 3 times a day English and translieration prescribed by Shaykh Nazim Ali Haqqani Reference to Fasting in Rajab -If someone has fasted for three days during the sacred months, on a Thursday, a Friday and a Saturday, Allah will credit him with the worshipful service [ibadah] of 900 years! Fasting in Rajab ones drinks from a River of Paradise called Rajab Only for those who observed fasting in Rajab also a palace for Only those whose frequntly fasted in Rajab. Grave punishment will be stopped if one fasts only day of Rajab In order to enter Ramadhaan in the best possible manner, one has to prepare himself in the months of Rajab and Shabaan. It has been said that Rajab is the month to sow seeds (good actions), Shabaan is the month in which we should water those seeds (with tears of sorrow) and Ramadhaan is the month in which we reap the harvest. =============== Excerpt from Seal of the Saints by Shaykh Muhayyidun Ibn Arabi Chapter 7 The Highest Degree of Walaya ….The next category, the name and nature of which are somewhat surprising, is the category of the rajabiyyun or 'men of Rajab', who number forty. They are so named because 'the spiritual state ( hal ) which corresponds to their station (maqam) is manifest in them only in Rajab, from the moment of the appearance of the end of the lunar month. They then lose this state until the month of Rajab the following year….In some of them there survives throughout the year something of what they perceived (through intuitive unveiling) in the month of Rajab, while in others nothing of it survives at all. Shaykh 'Ibn Arabi tells of the visit he paid one of them at Dunaysir in Mesopotamia. This person, who is in the Durra fakhira as al-Khatari, had the singualr gift…… Excerpts from Al-Ghunya li-Talibi Tariq al-Haqq Vol.3 by Master of Sufis Shaykh 'Abdul Qadir Jilani The First Day and Night of the First Friday of Rajab As for the night of the first Friday of the month of Rajab or its first night, both known as the "Night of wishes" (laylat al-ragha'ib) during which is performed the salat al-ragha'ib. (please note: Thursday Night in Islam is actually Friday,we start from Maghrib & finish at maghrib the following night so- the whole of Friday thus starts is -Thursday night to Friday night, the day is Asr to Asr there is no concept in Islam that the day starts at 12.00am this is a western non-muslim belief or understanding. Fajr then is our 3rd prayer beginning of the day. The text is translated into english without footnotes. Which can be found in the book version, also Sunday is our First day in Islam not Monday - Wusta footnote found at bottom) How To Perform The Prayer Fast on the first Thursday of Rajab. ........" It is most important, however, that none of you should neglect the First Friday in Rajab, for it is the night that the angels call the Night of [the Granting of] Wishes [Lailat ar-Ragha'ib]. This is because, by the time the first third of the night has elapsed, there will not be a single angel still at large in the heavens, nor in any region of the earth bar one. They will all be gathered together in the Ka'ba and the area immediately surrounding it. Allah (Exalted is He) will condescend to notice that they have assembled there, and He will say: "My angels, ask Me for whatever you wish!" Their response to this will be: "Our Lord, the request we wish to make is that You grant forgiveness to those who faithfully keep the fast in Rajab," whereupon Allah (Exalted is He) will tell them: "That I have already done!" Then Allah's Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) said: " No one will go unrewarded if he fasts during the daytime on Thursday, the first Thursday in Rajab. In the evening between Maghrib and `Isha, perform 12 units (Rak'at) of prayer, in two's (i.e. two at a time). In each unit recite: Once Sura-al-Fateha; three times Sura-al-Qadr; and 12 times Sura-al-Tawhid (Qul huwallahu). After the 12 units (rakats) are over, recite 70 times: Salawat (while sitting) : "Allahumma Salli `Ala Muhammad, Annabiyyil Ummiyyi, Wa `Ala Aalihi" Tasbih (in Sajdah): "Subbuhun Quddusun, Rabbul Mala`ikati Warruh" All-Glorious, All-Holy,n Lord of the Angels and of the Spirit! Istighfar (while sitting): "Rabbigh-Fir, War-ham, Watajawaz `Amma Ta'alamu, Innaka antal `aliyyul A`a-zam" My Lord, forgive and have mercy m pardon that which You well know, for You are the Mighty, the Supreme Tasbih (again in Sajdah): "Subbuhun Quddusun, Rabbul Mala'ikati Warruh" All-Glorious, All-Holy,n Lord of the Angels and of the Spirit! Then seek your needs, they will be granted, Inshallah. Reward for praying 12 rakah on first night Allah's Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) also said: " By Him in whose Hand is my soul [wa 'lladhi nafsi bi-yadih], I assure you that no servant [of His], whether manservant ['abd] or maidservant [ama], will ever perform this particular salat-prayer without Allah forgiving all the sins of which that individual has ever been guilty, even if they are like the flecks of foam upon the ocean, as numerous as all the grains of sand, as heavy as the mountains, and as many as the drops of rain and the leaves on all the trees. On the Day of Resurrection [Yawm al-Qiyama], he will be allowed to intercede on behalf of seven hundred members of his family." On the first night that worshipful servant spends in his grave, the reward for this salat-prayer will come to visit him [in the shape of a human being], with a cheerful face and an eloquent tongue. "O my dear friend," it will say to him, "rejoice in the good tidings, for I am here to tell you that you have been delivered from every severe affliction!" This will prompt the servant to exclaim: "Who are you? By Allah, I swear that I have never seen a man with a better-looking face than yours. Never have I heard a form of speech more charming than your way of speaking, and never have I smelled a fragrance more delightful than that of your perfume." So then it will tell him: "O my dear friend, I am the reward for that salat-prayer, the one you performed on whichever night it was, in whichever month it was, in whichever year it was. I have come here tonight in order to fulfill your request, to entertain you in your solitary state, and to banish your loneliness from you. Later on, when the trumpet is sounded, I shall provide you with shade to protect your head from the scorching heat on the Fields of the Resurrection ['Arasat al-Qiyama]. So rejoice in the good tidings, for you will never be deprived of the blessing that comes from your Master [Mawla]." 30 rakah - are read in units of 2 with "Qul HuwAllahu Ahad" 3 times, and Surah that begins with "Qul Yaa-ayyu-hal-kaa-firoon" 3 times for every rakah, to read 10 on first night -10 in middle -10 at the end of the month ......Allah (Exalted is He) relents toward His Prophets [anbiya'], because in it He rescues His saints [awliya'] from the hands of their enemies, and because anyone who fasts during this month becomes entitled to receive three things from Allah (Exalted is He). The first and second of these are forgiveness for all the sins he has previously committed, and impregnable virtue ['isma] for the remainder of his life. As for the third, he will be safe from thirst on the Day of the Greatest Review [Yawm al-'Ard al-Akbar].".... ..Ibn `Abd al-Razzaq narrates in his Musannaf (4:317) that Ibn `Umar said: There are five nights in which invocation (du`a) is not turned back: the night of Jum`a, the first night of Rajab, the night of mid-Sha`ban, and the two nights of `Eid. The beloved Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wa sallam peace be upon him said: 'The fast of the first day of Rajab is repentance for 3 years and the fasting of the second day is repentance for 2 years and the fast of third day is repentance for 1 year and then each remaining day -of Rajab- is repentance for 1 month.' 'Whoever fasts the 1st day of Rajab it will be equivalent to the fast of 1 year; and whoever fasts 7 days in it, the 7 gates of Hell will be closed for him; and whoever fasts 10 days from Rajab, a caller will call out from the sky, "Ask and you will be given!" ' 'Rajab is a tremendous month in which Allah multiplies the good deeds. So whoever fasts a day from Rajab it is as if he fasted a year; and whoever fasts seven days of it the seven gates of Hell are closed to him; and whoever fasts eight days from it the eight gates of Paradise are opened to him; and whoever fasts ten days from it will not ask Allah something except that Allah will grant it. And whoever fasts from it fifteen days a caller will call out from heavens "Verily you have been forgiven whatever is past, so renew your good actions, for indeed your transgressions have been transformed into virtuous deeds." And whoever does more, Allah gives to him even more. And in Rajab Allah carried Noah/Nuh alaihi salaam peace be upon him in the ark and he/Noah fasted and ordered all those with him to do so. And the ark sailed with them for six months until the first ten days of Muharram/first month of islamic calender.' Fasting in Rajab and Merit of Fasting During the 27th Day of Rajab As for the name ash-Shahru'l-Mutahhir [The Purifying Month], it is so called because it purifies [yutahhiru] the person who fasts in the course of it, ridding him of his sins and offenses. Relevant in this context is another traditional report related to us by Shaikh Imam Hibatu'llah ibn al-Mubarak as-Saqati (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him). According to this report, Allah's Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) said: The month of Rajab is a glorious month indeed. If someone has fasted for one day in Rajab, Allah (Exalted is He) will record it in his credit column as the fast of a thousand years. If someone has fasted for two days in Rajab, Allah (Exalted is He) will record it in his credit column as the fast of two thousand years. If someone has fasted for three days in Rajab, Allah (Exalted is He) will record it in his credit column as the fast of three thousand years. If someone has fasted for seven days in Rajab, all the seven gates of Hell [Jahannam] wil be locked to make sure that he stays out of it. If someone has fasted for eight days in Rajab, al the eight gates of the Garden of Paradise will be held open for him, so that he may enter by whichever gate he chooses. If someone has fasted for fifteen days in Rajab, all his bad deeds will be replaced by good deeds, and a crier will call out from heaven above: "Allah has now forgiven you, so use the opportunity to set about good work anew!" Traditional Reports Concerning the Sacred Month of Rajab According to a report transmitted by 'Ikrima, on the authority of Ibn 'Abbas (may Allah be well pleased with him and with his father), the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) once said: Rajab is Allah's month, Sha'ban is my month and Ramadan is the month of my Community. Allah's Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) is also reported as having said: In the Garden of Paradise there is a river called Rajab, whiter than milk and sweeter than honey. If someone has fasted for one day during the month of Rajab, Allah will let him quench his thirst by drinking from that river. Anab ibn Malik (may Allah be well pleased with him) is reported as having said: "In the Garden of Paradise there is a palace that no one may enter, with the exception of someone who makes a frequent practice of fasting during the month of Rajab." According to another traditional report, also transmitted on the authority of Anas [ibn Malik] (may Allah be well pleased with him), Allah's Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) once said: If someone has fasted for three days during the sacred months, on a Thursday, a Friday and a Saturday, Allah will credit him with the worshipful service [ibada] of nine hundred years! The Merit of Fasting During the 27th Day of Rajab The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) once said: If someone keeps the fast on the 27th day of Rajab, he will be credited with the same reward as that which is earned by fasting for sixty months. It was on the 27th day of Rajab, we are told, that Gabriel first came down to invest the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) with his Messengership [Risala]. According to this next report, likewise conveyed to us by Sheikh Hibatu'llah, Allah's Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) once said: Rajab contains a very special day and a very special night. If someone fasts during that day, and keeps vigil throughout that night, he will be entitled to a reward like the one that would be earned by a person who fasted for a hundred years, and who keeps vigil throughout all the nights in that period. The reference must be to the 27th of Rajab, that being the day on which our Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) was first dispatched to embark upon his mission. Sheikh Hibatu'llah (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) has informed us on good traditional authority, Allah's Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) once said: Rajab is one of the sacred months and its days are inscribed on the sixth gate of Heaven. So, if a man has fasted during one day of this month, and if he has kept his fast completely clean through obedient devotion [taqwa] to Allah (Almighty and Glorious is He), the heavenly gate will acquire the faculty of speech, and the day itself will also acquire the faculty of speech, and the two of them will say: "O Lord, forgive him!" But if he has failed to make his fast complete through obedient devotion to Allah (Exalted is He), they will make no such plea for him to be forgiven. They will say, or he will be told by some other voice: "Your own lower self [nafs] has betrayed you!" Dua of Wali Abbas will be added read 3 times a day to be added..! Dua's appropriate on the first night of Rajab part 1 Barakah of 30 rakah salat during the holy month of Rajab 2 Fasting on the first Thursday in Rajab, and prayer in first Friday night [Jumu'ah] of that month. part 3 Rajab (The 7th Month) - Benefits & Information Rajab is the Month of God note:- Wusta- Middle. Salatul Wusta refers to the middle prayer, which is the 'Asr prayer (the third of the five compulsory daily prayers), for those whose day begins at dawn. However, some say it refers to the Fajr prayer. This is because the Muslims follow a lunar calendar: the first day of a new lunar month is only determined when the new moon is sighted shortly after sunset. Therefore the Muslim day begins at Maghreb, and the first prayer of that new day is Maghreb, which makes the third (middle) prayer Fajr.

Abu Bakr Siddiq (Radiallahu anhu) was the first man to accept Islam without any reservations. He was about two years younger than Prophet Muhammad (Sallalahu alaihi wasallam) and belonged to the tribe of Quraish. His real name was Abdullah but he was later given two titles “Siddiq and Ateeq”. His father’s name was Abu Quhafa Othman and his mother was Ummul Khair Salma. He was the closest and most intimate friend of the beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallalahu alaihi wasallam). Abu Bakr (Radiallahu Anhu) was very prominent and well known amongst the people of Makkah. He was a successful trader & experienced businessman. When he was blessed with embracing Islam, his trading friends accused him of making a great mistake. They said “you never incurred loss through any business deal, you were considered wise and very successful; however in so far as you have become Muslim and believed in Muhammad, you have incurred a great loss upon yourself and have become a loser.” Abu Bakr replied “By Allah this dealing of faith and Iman is a greatest success.” Allah the Almighty, revealed the Surah Al Asr in support of Abu Bakr (Radiallahu Anhu). “By the Time, Verily man is in loss, except for those who believe and do righteous good deeds, and encourage one another toward truth and toward patience”. Abu Bakr (Radiallahu Anhu) devoted and dedicated his life, wealth, family and every resource and ability for the Sake of Allah, for the pleasure of his Messenger, and the propagation and preaching of Islam. He was exceptionally kind, generous, and helpful towards others. He freed a great number of slaves, particularly those who were being tortured because of their acceptance of Islam, Bilal bin Rabah, Amir bin Fuhairah, Umm Ubais, Zinnirah, and Nahdiyah are just a few of those whom he freed. Once his father advised him saying “O my son, I don’t want to stop you from freeing the slaves, but you are freeing the very old, women and the weak, if you want to free slaves you should be mindful to free the young slaves in order that you may call upon them whenever you are in need. “Abu Bakr replied “O my father, I am not freeing them for hoping anything in return from them, what I am doing is only for the sake of Allah. When Abu Bakr (Radiallahu Anhu) had freed Bilal, some people said that Bilal had given a favor to him. Allah, the exalted in knowledge, cleared Abu Bakr’s position and intention in Surah Al Lail… “But the most pious one shall be kept away from it (Hell). Who gives his wealth to become purified, and he owes no favor to anyone in recompense. But he only seeks the pleasure of his Lord who is the most High. And undoubtedly soon he will be pleasured”. (Verses 17 to 21) There are many verses of the Holy Quran which highlight the merit of Abu Bakr (Radiallahu Anhu) and there are hundreds of Ahadith which explain his great status and pious character. He never drank alcohol even during the times of “Jahiliyyah” or ignorance. He was true lover and follower of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam.) He loved him more than anything else. In the Battle of Badr, his son Abdur Rahman was fighting against the Muslims and after accepting Islam he said to his father “O my father, at Badr, you were twice under my sword, but my love for you held my hand back.” Abu Bakr replied “My dear son if you had fallen under my sword a single time you would be no more.” During the Hijrah (migration) to Madinah, Abu Bakr (Radiallahu Anhu) accompanied the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam). They stayed in the cave Thaor for three days. Abu Bakr swept & cleaned the cave. He offered the Prophet (Peace & Blessings of Allah be upon him) to put his head on his laps & take some rest. A snake emerged from a hole and repeatedly bit Abu Bakr (Radiallahu Anhu), he kept patience but didn’t move or awaken the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam). He faced incredible difficulties for the love of Allah and his Messenger. He was cured because of the Blessed Saliva of his Beloved Prophet. Once he said that there are three things which he likes & loves in the world, 1) To see the face of the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam). 2) That his daughter Aaisha was Prophet’s wife. 3) To spend his wealth for the pleasure of Allah’s Messenger. At the expedition of Tabuk, he had given all his possession for the sake of Allah. He was appointed Amir ul Hajj by Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam) in the 9th year of Hijrah. Prophet Muhammad said, Abu Bakr’s name shall be called out from every gate of Jannah ( Paradise ) and he will be the first of my followers to enter it.” During the time of decline in the Prophet’s physical health, he nominated Abu Bakr to lead the Salah (Prayer), so he led 16 or 17 prayers as an Imam with the permission & blessings of the Holy Prophet. He was the first Khalifa (Caliph) of Muslims and the first defender of the Creed (Aqeeda) of Khatme Nubuwwat (finality of our prophet).When he became khalifa, there were three major challenges for Muslims. <!--[if !supportLists]-->1) <!--[endif]-->To complete the Army Mission under the command & leadership of Usama Bin Zaid, this was planned by the Prophet (Peace & Blessings of Allah be upon him). <!--[if !supportLists]-->2) <!--[endif]-->Defend & protect the true massage of Islam from fake & false prophets, like Musailma Kazzab (the liar), who had a strong army against Muslims. <!--[if !supportLists]-->3) <!--[endif]-->Some Muslims denied & rejected the Zakat (Poor Due, Charity) and became apostate (Murtad).It was an open betrayal movement to destroy the balanced economical system & the Devine Pillars of Islam. The historians & Sahaba said that it was not possible for any person to solve all these issues at a time except the Abu Bakr. He made the decision based on his wisdom, faith & Ishaq (love). He compiled the Holy Quran into a single volume. He ruled for two years and three months. He passed away on Monday 22nd Jamadul Ukhra, 13th year of Hijrah. He left three daughters and two sons. His family is the only family where we can see the four generations are Sahabi (Companion) of Allah’s Messenger, His father, himself, his children & his grandson. He was a practical Muslim, true believer, just ruler, competent leader, strong man, obedient son, kind husband, loving father, brave warrior, missionary solider, confident administrator, trustworthy companion, loyal friend, attractive preacher, intelligent counselor, sincere advisor, generous, humble, polite, honest businessman, social worker & peaceful person. He was buried next to his beloved master and Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (Sallalahu alaihi wasallam). Before his death, he nominated Omar Bin Khattab as a Khalifa.We salute him for his unequivocal sacrifices and outstanding service to Islam. O Allah continue to bless his soul. Ameen

The Excellence of using Miswak (Tooth-Stick) Selections from Riyadh us Saaliheen Abu Hurairah reported: The Messenger of Allah said, "Had I not thought it difficult for my Ummah, I would have commanded them to use the Miswak (tooth-stick) before every Salat.'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]. Commentary: We learn from this Hadith that the Prophet liked to clean his teeth with Miswak (a softened stick used as tooth brush for cleaning the teeth) with every Salat, but he did not made it obligatory for the reason that it would be inconvenient for his followers. It shows that he was extremely affectionate and kind to his Ummah. This Hadith also shows that using Miswak is an admirable act. Every Muslim should make it a routine to use it as frequently as possible especially before performing prayers. Hudaifah reported: Whenever the Messenger of Allah got up (from sleep), he would rub his teeth with Miswak (tooth-stick).[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]. Commentary: When a person awakes from sleep, he has an unpleasant breath because of the smell in his mouth. For this reason, the Prophet would cleanse his teeth with Miswak. We should also follow him and make this Sunnah a routine. `Aishah reported: We used to prepare for the Messenger of Allah a Miswak (tooth-stick) and the water for making Wudu'. Whenever Allah wished to awaken him from sleep at night, he would brush his teeth with Miswak, make Wudu', and perform Salat. [Muslim]. Commentary: This Hadith shows how particular the Prophet was about using Miswak. Besides pointing out the importance of Miswak, it also throws light on the noble conduct of the wives of the Prophet as it shows how keen they were about his needs, habits and temperament. Anas reported: The Messenger of Allah said, "I stress upon you to use Miswak (tooth-stick).''[Al-Bukhari]. Shuraih bin Hani reported: I asked `Aishah : "What was the first thing which the Prophet would do when he entered his house?'' She replied: "He would use Miswak (tooth-stick).''[Muslim]. Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari reported: I came to the Prophet once and noticed the tip of Miswak (tooth-stick) on his tongue. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]. `Aishah reported: The Prophet said, "The Miswak (tooth-stick) cleanses and purifies the mouth and pleases the Rubb.'' [An-Nasa'i and Ibn Khuzaimah]. Commentary: "Mataharah'' means a medium and means of purification. "Mitaharah" means an instrument/tool for purification. In other words, on the one side, Miswak is a means of cleaning and purifying the mouth, and on the other, a way to attain the Pleasure of Allah. Abu Hurairah reported: The Prophet said, "There are five acts which conform to the pure nature: Circumcision, removing of the pubic hair, clipping the nails, plucking the underarm hair and trimming the moustache.'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]. Commentary: "Fitrah" literally means beginning, innovation, invention or making something altogether new, but here it means instinct or such nature or disposition which is inborn. Some people have defined it as that old way which was liked by all the Prophets and on which all the Divine laws had full agreement. That is to say, they are natural to man. In any case, one should adopt all these five good qualities in such a way as if they are a part of his nature. Moreover, they are also highly important from the point of view of cleanliness and purification. `Aishah reported: The Messenger of Allah said, "There are ten demands of pure nature: trimming the moustache, letting the beard grow, using Miswak (tooth-stick), snuffing up water into the nose (in ablution), paring the nails, washing the bases of the finger joints; plucking the underarm hair, removing of the pubic hair and removing impurities with water from the affected part after a call of nature.'' The subnarrator said: I forgot the tenth but it might possibly be the rinsing of the mouth (in ablution). [Muslim]. Commentary: This Hadith tells us about ten qualities which are natural to human beings. Some `Ulama' are of the opinion that the tenth quality among them is circumcision. Anyway, the importance of these ten qualities and the stress on them are evident. The first thing among them is the trimming of moustache. This is Sunnah of the Prophet and is meant to cut the projected hair on the upper lip. 2. In the opinion of `Ulama', keeping the beard is compulsory but its extent is not determined. On the basis of Ibn `Umar's practice, some `Ulama' hold that the size of handful is essential and beyond that cutting is permissible, or according to a weak narration some consider its trimming towards length and breadth quite fair. But this opinion is not correct. In the words of Al-Bukhari and Muslim, the Prophet used five words for it which are (a'fu, aufu, arkhu, arju, waq'iru) and all of them have similar meanings that the beard should be left alone on natural growth. But, for a few exceptional cases, the common injunction in this behalf is that one should keep full beard. One should neither trim it in length and breadth nor make it handful in size. One can, however, bring it to a normal size in case of its wild growth if one fears that it will cause derision and laughter. 3,4. The Miswak and the rinsing of mouth, and putting water into the nostrils are necessary for Wudu'. "Istinshaq'' means to draw water with full force in the nostrils as one does for smelling perfume. Except during Saum, Istinshaq is stressed in Wudu'. 5. Paring of the nails is also necessary for cleanliness. If this is not done, filthy matter will go to the mouth through the nails. The fashion of keeping long nails, similar to beasts and animals, now in vogue in women as well as men is not only against nature but is also a sign of beastliness and ferocity. 6. The washing of the joints of fingers is also necessary for cleanliness. 7,8. The removal of the underarm hair and below the naval is an integral part of cleanliness and inordinate delay in it is disliked. According to a Hadith, delay in it beyond forty days is disgusting. 9. Cleaning with water after evacuation is a must for purification because one cannot perform Salat without it. It is permissible to use clod or toilet tissue, etc., but such things used for this purpose should be odd in number, i.e., 3,5,7. But it is better to follow this with water, as water is a natural cleanser. 10. Circumcision is also an old tradition or practice. According to the general opinion of `Ulama', it is obligatory. Some of them are of the view that it is desirable on the seventh day. It is, however, permissible afterwards. 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Alhamdulillah Azzawajall Madni Channel Has Made Agreement With Asiasat For Asia Middleeast & Australia news_20090330.pdf

Why is it so hard to tell the truth but yet so easy to tell a lie? Why we are so sleepy in mosque but right when the prayer is over, we suddenly wake up? Why is it so hard to talk about Allah but yet so easy to talk about nasty stuff? Why is it so boring to look at an Islamic Article but yet so easy to look at a nasty one? Why is it so easy to delete a Godly e-mail but yet we forward all of the nasty ones? Why the mosques are's getting smaller, but yet the dance clubs are getting larger? Just remember-Allah is watching you. Let's continue praying for one another. As we look at this article we realise how true the Messenger (Sallallahu alayhi wa alih wa salam) was. These signs were prophesized 1400 years ago!!! Take a look.... Now this is scary!!!! · Camels will no longer be used as a means of transport; · People will ride on saddles that aren't saddles (cars?!) · The distance on earth will become short; · Horses will not be used in wars; · Muslims will defeat the Byzantines which will end with the conquest of Constantinople Istanbul); · The Jews will gather again to live in Bilad Canaan; Very tall buildings will be built; · The disappearance of knowledge and the appearance of ignorance, with much killing; · Adultery will become widespread, and the drinking of wine will become common; · The number of men will decrease and the number of women will increase until there are 50 women to be looked after by one man. · Islam will become worn out like clothes are, until no one will know what fasting, prayer, charity and rituals are; · Allah will send a disease to fornicators that will have no cure (Aids?); · People will begin to believe in the stars and reject AL QADAR (THE DIVINE DECREE OF DESTINY); · Men will pass by people's graves and say: 'Would that I was in his place'; (large amount of suicidal deaths!?) · The Euphrates will uncover a mountain of gold for which people will fight over (the river of Alfurat that lies near Syria); · Two large groups of people will fight one another, and there will be many casualties; they will both be following the same religion World War II?); · Approximately 30 DAJJALS will appear, each one claiming to be the messenger of ALLAH; · Earthquakes will increase; · Time will! Pass quickly; · Afflictions will appear; · Killing will increase; · Wealth will increase; · Women will be wearing clothes but not wearing clothes The Prophet said: 'If my ummah bears 15 traits (qualities), tribulation will follow it.' (Day of Judgement) someone asked, "what is the O' messenger of Allah?' He said: · When any gain is shared out only among the rich, with no benefit to the poor; · When a trust becomes a means of making profit; When paying ZAKKAT becomes a burden; · When voices are raised in the mosque; · When the leader of a people is the worst of them; When people treat a man with respect because what he may do; · When much wine is drunk; red wind or the earth swallow! Them to be transformed into animals.' · IMRAN IBN HUSAYN SAID: 'THE PROPHET SAID, 'SOME PEOPLE OF THIS UMMAH WILL BE SWALLOWED BY THE EARTH, TRANSFORMED INTO ANIMALS, AND SOME WILL BE BOMBARDED WITH STONES'. ONE OF THE MUSLIMS ASKED WHEN THAT WILL BE O MESSENGER Of ALLAH.' HE SAID, 'WHEN SINGERS AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS WILL BECOME POPULAR, AND MUCH WINE IS DRUNK.'' THE GREATER SIGNS OF THE HOUR The Qur'an will disappear in one night, even from the people's hearts, and no Ayyah will be left on earth. (Some groups of old people will be left who will say: 'We heard of fathers' saying 'LAILLAHA ILLA ALLAH' so we repeat it); · The appearance of the MAHDI; · The appearance of the DAJJAL (Anti Christ); · The appearance of Ya'juj and Ma'juj (biblical Gog and Magog); · Isa (Jesus) will come during the time of Dajjal; · The rising of the sun from the west; · The destruction of the Ka'bah and the recovery of its treasures · 'Whoever guides or directs to good, then he gets the same amount of blessing (reward) as the one who does it' The prophet (sallallaahu 'alaihi wa alih wasallam).

1. You believe in the existance of Allah Ta'ala, but you do not fulfil his commands. 2. You say you love the Holy Prophet Mohammed (Sallallahu 'alahi wasallam), but you do not follow his sunnah (ie, his example). 3. You Read The Qur'an but you do not put it into practice. 4. You enjoy all the benefits from Allah Ta'ala, but you are not grateful to him. 5. You acknowledge Shaytan as your enemy, but you do not go against him. 6. You want to enter paradise, but you do not work for it. 7. You do not want to be thrown into hell-fire, but you do not try to get away (ie, do good deeds). 8. You believe that every living-thing will face death, but you do not prepare for it. 9. You gossip and find faults in others, but you forgot your own faults and mistakes. 10. You bury the dead, but you do not take a lesson from it.

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Shaitaan has many tricks which he uses to mislead and destroy the Muslims. And as much as a person may strive in the Path of Allah, there is one act which Shaitaan hates the most for a Muslim to do, and that is to gain knowledge. He hates it so much because it is knowledge that can save one from sins and the tricks of Shaitaan. Insha Allah below we will see the proof of his love for ignorance as well as the powerful weapon that knowledge forms for us. Rasoolullah has stated in a Hadith Shareef, “A worshipper without the knowledge of Fiqh is like a donkey strenuously labouring a millstone.” [Fathul Kabeer, Vol. 3] This is because the donkey goes around the millstone from dawn to dusk every day of its life but this strenuous labour is of no value to him at all. The true and high-ranking Sufis unanimously state, “An ignorant Sufi is a tool of Shaitaan.” [Kashful Mahjoob; Awaariful Ma’aarif ] Once a very great Wali of Allah heard about the Mujaahidah and Ibaadah of a person. He called for him and enquired, “I heard a lot about you and your experiences. Please enlighten me on them.” This person then said, “I make Ziyaarah daily of Allah Ta’ala with my physical eyes. The Arsh of Allah is laid on the sea and then He sits on it.” If this person had any knowledge, then firstly he would have known that it is impossible to see Allah Ta’ala in this Duniyah with the physical eyes. This is only exclusive to Rasoolullah and that too beyond the heavens and the earth. However, the Wali of Allah called for an Aalim and asked him to present the Hadith Shareef in which Rasoolullah spoke of the Shaitaan laying his throne on the water. The Aalim then read the Hadith Shareef which states, “Verily, the Shaitaan lays his throne on the sea.” [Majma’al Zawaa’id] When the person heard this Hadith of Rasoolullah he said, “All these days I regarded the Shaitaan as Allah. I worshipped him and made Sajdah to him.” He then tore his clothes and ran away into the jungles, never to be seen again. [Al Malfooz Shareef, Vol. 3] It is further stated in the Hadith Shareef that all the Shaitaans assemble at the sea. Then the Shaitaan’s throne is laid on the sea and the day’s reports of his agents are presented to him. Some say, “I made so much people drink liquor”, while others say, “We caused so many to commit Zina (adultery)”, etc. He listens to each one of them. Then one Shaitaan says, “Today I obstructed a certain student from studying Deen.” On hearing this, the Shaitaan jumps up from his throne and hugs him saying, “You, you (certainly did the best job)!” The other Shaitaans see this and become very disillusioned. They say, “We did so big things, yet receive no credit. Why do you have so much praises for this Shaitaan who obstructed a student from studying Deen?” The big Shaitaan replies, “Whatever you have done required no credit because if those people possessed knowledge, they would not have committed such sins. Knowledge is the biggest weapon against sins.” The Shaitaan then asks his followers to show him where an ignorant worshipper lived. The next morning before sunrise the Shaitaan took his followers to the ignorant worshipper. He disguised himself as a human and waited at the roadside while the rest of the Shaitaans hid nearby to watch. The worshipper performed his Tahajjud Salaah and proceeded to the Masjid for Fajr Salaah. The Shaitaan intercepted the worshipper and requested if he could ask him a question. The worshipper was in a hurry and told him to make it quick. Shaitaan then put his hand in his pocket, took out a small bottle, showed it to him and asked, “Is it possible for Allah to put the skies and the earth into this small bottle?” The ignorant worshipper then replied, “Are you joking? How is it possible for the vast earth and skies to fit into that little bottle?” Shaitaan then thanked the worshipper and told him that he could proceed to the Masjid for Salaah. He then turned to the other Shaitaans and said, “Did you see how I misled him? That ignorant worshipper has no Imaan on the Qudrat (Power) of Allah.” Shaitaan then took his agents to visit an Aalim (Learned Scholar). It was nearly sunrise when they see an Aalim rushing towards the Masjid. The Shaitaan hurried to him and requested if he could ask a question. The Aalim told him to make it quick as there is very little time left for Fajr Salaah. Shaitaan then presented the same bottle and asked the same question that he asked the ignorant worshipper. The Aalim then replied, “Idiot! You seem to be the Devil. You fool! He is All- Powerful! In fact this bottle is far too big. Almighty Allah can put thousands of earths and skies like these in a much smaller bottle. Have you not read the Qur’an? “Verily Allah can do anything that He ordains.” [surah 2, Verse 106]” After saying this, the Aalim then rushed off to the Masjid. Shaitaan then says to his followers, “Did you see the Barakaat of knowledge?” [Al Malfooz Shareef, Vol. 3] On another occasion when the Shaitaans reported their activities, one said, “I convinced so many to steal.” Another said, “I lured so many to commit adultery.” The other said, “I enticed one to kill”, etc. Each one reported his success. The Shaitaan listened to all without comment. Then one said, “I distracted a student of Ilm-e-Deen from reading his Sabaq and made a certain Muslim couple quarrel.” On hearing this, the Shaitaan jumped off his thrown, embraced him and honoured him a seat beside him. The other Shaitaans protested because they too had laboured very hard to mislead others. “What was so special in his work, that you give him so much honour?” they asked the big Shaitaan. He answered, “His one act is greater than a thousand of your acts. You have no idea of its greatness! Come, I will prove it to you.” He took his army to an ignorant worshipper who is engaged in worship in his room. He disguised himself as an angel and said to the worshipper, “I am the Angel Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) and Allah sent me to you with a message. Allah says that he has accepted your worship.” He was overjoyed and was ready to leave. Shaitaan then blindfolded him, held his hand and left him in a filthy toilet and then disappeared. Then Shaitaan took his students to the door of an Aalim. He knocked at the door and it was opened. He greeted the Aalim and said to him, “Sir, Almighty Allah has accepted your great service and sacrifice for the Deen. You have imparted knowledge correctly to numerous students. Allah summons you to His Divine Presence so that He may honour you with the garb of excellence.” The Aalim grabbed a weapon and attacked the Shaitaan and said, “O deceiver! Do you not know that there is no Physical Me’raj after Sayyiduna Rasoolullah and the Angel Jibra’eel (Alaihis Salaam) will not come down to earth with such an invitation. It seems that you are Iblees.” He then recited, “Laa Howla Wala Quwwata Illah Billahil ‘Aliyyil ‘Azeem.” The Shaitaan then turned to his students and said, “Did you see the difference between an Aalim and an ignorant person?” Shaitaan then spoke about the quarrelling between the husband and wife. He said, “Firstly, the wisdom in this is that mankind is the offspring of Nabi Adam (Alaihis Salaam). When our enemy will quarrel, they will stay apart and as a result they will not produce any children. This will destroy their coming generations. Secondly, we will fan the fire of lust and sexual desires together because of their hatred and dispute. Therefore they will have to do something to quench their desire and lust. Hence, they will turn to Zina (adultery). This will result in illegitimate offspring. Their estate will be distributed to non-deserving people. One of the main factors that invite the Mercy of Allah is love and harmony between couples. Surely, when this does not exist, then the doors of Mercy and Rahmah will close and therefore, their share of Barakah will end. There is much hidden wisdom in the disagreement of couples which you cannot understand.” [siraajul Awaarif ] We can see from this how much Shaitaan loves ignorance and is overjoyed the most when we are taken away from gaining the knowledge. The youth especially, must take heed of this because they have no interest in attaining knowledge and hence we see how far many have moved away from Deen. We have immersed our youth in ignorance and hence they are becoming the tools of Shaitaan. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to gain knowledge for the Pleasure of Allah and to displease Shaitaan, and may Almighty Allah in His Infinite Mercy save us all and especially the youth from ignorance, Ameen.

A gathering on any day, though generally on 11th of the lunar calendar, consisting of recitation of the Holy Quran, Zikr (Remembrance of Allah Ta’ala), reading Fateha and distributing food to send the reward to Huzoor Ghous-e-Azam Hadhrat Syedena Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani (May Allah be well pleased with him) is called Giyarhween Shareef. Its basis in the religion is from the concept of sending reward to others. This is commonly known as Isaal-e-Sawaab, and it has been proven from the Quran and Sunnah. What is Isaal-e-Sawaab? Is it permissable? Isaal-e-Sawaab is act of performing a virtuous deed and sending the spiritual reward to another. Allah (Most Exalted) says: “And those who came after them submit, O our Lord! Forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in the faith” (Al-Hashr:10) This proves that the prayer of Muslims for the forgiveness of other Muslims is from Quranic teachings and Isaal-e-Sawaab is actually a form of supplication (Dua). In a Hadith related from both Imam Bukhari and Imam Muslim, the Mother of the Believers Hadhrat Aisha Siddiqua (May Allah be well pleased with her) narrated that a person asked a question about sending reward (Isaal-e-Sawaab) to his mother at which the Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) replied that the reward of your charity (sadaqa and khairat) would, in fact, reach her. According to another Hadith in the Musnad of Imam Ahmed, Hadhrat Anas (May Allah be well pleased with him) inquired that “For our deceased, we make dua, give charity and perform Pilgrimage; does it reach them?” The Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) replied, “Yes, certainly it reaches them and they are pleased with it just like you are pleased with each others gifts.” Haji Imdad-ullah Mahajir Makki (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) writes in Faisala Haft Mas’ala, “the form of sending reward [isaal-e-Sawaab] during these occasions is not specific to one nation [the practice is not isolated to the Indian subcontinent]; the Giyarhween Shareef of Hadhrat Ghaus-e-Paak Quds Sirahu, the 10th, the 20th, the 40th (Chehlum), the 8th, Urs (anniversary) and so forth, Tosha-e-Hadhrat Sheikh Ahmed Radolvi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him), Aursamini Hadhrat Bu Ali Qalandar (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him), sweets (Halwa) of Shab-e-Barat and other forms of Isaal-e-Sawaab are based on the same principle.” What is Fateha? Hadhrat Shah Abdul Aziz Muhhadith Dehlvi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) in his first book of Fataawa says, “Food from offerings (Niaz) whose reward is sent to Hadhrat Imam Hasan and Hadhrat Imam Hussain (May Allah be well pleased with them both) and upon which Surah Al-Fateha, the four Surah’s beginning with Qul and Durood Shareef (prayers upon the Holy Prophet peace and blessing upon him) is read, becomes the food of barakah (blessings) and 3 it is good to eat that food.” The reading of aforementioned parts of the Holy Quran is thus commonly known as Fateha. Hadhrat Shaykh Shahabuddin Suhurwardi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) describes the wisdom of this (Fateha) in his book Awarif Al-Ma’arif. He writes that, by reciting Quran over food, the food's particles become filled with the noor (light) of zikr (remembrance of Allah) and no harm can enter into the food. By eating such food the heart becomes spiritually uplifted. Reciting Quran and making dua on food is proved from many Sahih (rigorously authenticated) Ahadith. In Sahih Muslim, It is narrated that the Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) made dua on food for barakah in Ghazwa-e-Tabuook. In Bukhari and Muslim, it is narrated from Hadhrat Anas (May Allah be well pleased with him) that the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) placed food in front of himself and , read recited something and then made supplications. In another narration transmitted in Bukhari and Muslim, the Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) made supplication for barakah on cream of wheat (halwa). Did earlier Muslims celebrate the Giyarweenh Shareef or Urs of Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani (may Allah be well pleased with him)? Hadhrat Shaykh Abdul Haq Muhhadith Dehlavi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) says in Ma Sabita Bis-Sunnah that, “No doubt that the Giyarhween Shareef of Ghaus-ul-Azam is famous in our cities and this is the day that is famous from his family and the scholars of Hind.” In the Akhbar-ul-Akhyar he says that Shaykh Amanullah Paani Pati (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) used to celebrate the Urs of Ghaus-ul-Saqalain on eleventh of the month of Rabi-uth- Thani.” Imam Arif Kamil Hadhrat Shaykh Abdul-Wahab Muttaqi Makki Quds Sirahu used to celebrate the Urs of Ghaus-Al-Saqalain. Further, in the same book Ma Sabita Bis-Sunnah, Shaykh Abdul Haq Muhadith Dehlvi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him), describing the importance of Urs, writes that some earlier scholars (Mashaikh) have said that on the day when the friends of Allah Ta’ala (Awliya kiraam) meet their Lord (Wisal), there is much hope of Khair (good), Barakah and enlightenment. Celebrating the Urs, thus, is from the recommended acts these scholars have mentioned. Hadhrat Shah Abdul Aziz Muhadith Dehlavi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) says in Malfoozat-e-Azeezi that: “…kings and prominent personalities would gather at the blessed Shrine (Roza) of Hadhrat Ghaus-e-Azam (may Allah be well pleased with him) would recite Quran from Asr to Maghrib and read Qasaid and Manqabat in praise of Hadhrat Ghaus-e-Azam (may Allah be well pleased with him). After Maghrib prayer the Sajjada Nasheen (keeper of the Mazar Mubarak – the Shrine) would lead the zikr, sitting among his Mureedeen and the visitors where some people used to experience the state of Wajd (deep spiritual 4 emotions) during zikr. Then food, sweets, and whatever was prepared for Niaz (Langar) would be distributed. Then people would pray Isha prayer and leave.” Hadhrat Shah Walli-ullah Muhhadith Dehlvi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) has gathered the sayings of Hadhrat Mirza Mazhar-e-Jan-e-Janan (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) in his book Kalimat-e-Tayyabat. In one of these sayings Mirza (rahmatullah alayhe) says: “I have seen in a dream that there are many Awliya Kiraam (may Allah bestow His mercy upon them all) sitting in a circle in the state of Muraqaba (spiritual concentration) on a high station (Chabootra). Among them are Hadhrat Khawaja Naqshband (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) and Hadharat Junaid Baghdadi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him. Then, they walked over to welcome Hadhrat Ali karam-ullah-wajhulkarim. When Hadhrat Ali karam-ullah-wajhul-karim arrived, accompanying him was someone wrapped with a cloak, and bare-footed, whose hand was being held by Hadhrat Ali karam-ullah-wajhul-karim with great respect. Upon asking about this personality, it was told that he was Hadhrat Owais Qarni (may Allah be well pleased with him). Then a very clean and clear hujra (room) that was being showered with noor (light) appeared. All these awliya kiraam (may Allah bestow His mercy upon them all) entered into it. I inquired and found that that day was the anniversary (Urs) of Hadhrat Ghaus-ul-Saqalain (may Allah be well pleased with him) i.e. it is Ghyarhween Shareef. All of these Saints had entered there to celebrate the anniversary (Urs).” What is the meaning of the name Ghaus, or Ghaus-e-Azam, and is this a permissable practice to use the name for a created being? Ghaus-e-Azam means, the one who can fulfill needs of the people and Ghaus-Al-Saqalain means the helper of Jinn and human beings. Allah Ta’ala is the real Fulfiller of Needs but due to the authority He has given to his friends (Awliya Allah) they can help people as well. Similarly, due to the blessings and power given by Allah Ta’ala to Hadhrat Syedena Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani (May Allah be well pleased with him) is Ghaus-e-Azam. In the terminology of Sufism, the word Ghaus is used to denote the highest rank of wilayat. A question may arise as to whether calling someone Ghaus or Ghaus-e-Azam is valid or not. Someone may say that calling someone other than Allah Ta’ala with the name Ghaus-e-Azam is incorrect or shirk. In fact, this is not true at all. According to a hadith narrated by Ibne-Khazema (May Allah be well pleased with him) in his Sahih, same mentioned by Hakim in the Mustadrik and by Imam Bayhaqi in the Sunan, that when there was a famine during the Khilafat of Hadhrat Umar (May Allah be well pleased with him), Hadhrat Umar (May Allah be well pleased with him) sent an order to Hadhrat Amr Bin al-Aas (May Allah be well pleased with him) in Egypt and in it was written several times Fa ya Ghausahu Thuma Ghausahu, meaning that it was a call to help. This tells us that the use of word Ghaus for created being is allowed. Now let us see who among Islamic scholars have used the word of Ghaus for Hadhrat Syedena Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani (May Allah be well pleased with him). 5 Mirza Mazhare Jane Janan (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) has used Ghaus Al-Saqalain and Ghaus-e-Azam in his writings (Malfoozat), Qazi Sana-ullah Pani Pati has used Ghaus-al- Saqalain several times in Saif-al-Maslool, Hadhrat Shah Walli-ullah Muhadith Dehlavi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) has written Ghaus-e-Azam in his Humm’at, Hadhrat Abdul Aziz Muhadith Dehlavi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) has written Ghaus-e-Azam in the Tafseer-e-Azeezi, Hadhrat Mujadid Alf Thani Quds Sirah has written Ghaus-Al-Saqalain in the Makashifat-e-Ghaibia and used Ghaus-e-Azam in the Maktoobat, Hadhrat Shaykh Nooruddin Abu-Al-Hassan Ali (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) has used Ghaus al Wara in the Bahija-tul-Asrar, Hadhrat Khawaja Qutub-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki (May Allah has mercy upon him) and Hadhrat Maulana AbdarRahman Jami (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) have used Ghaus-al-Saqalain and Hadhrat Shaykh Abdul Haq Muhadith Dehlavi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) has used Ghaus-e-Azam and Ghaus-Al-Saqalain in the Akhbar-Al-Akhyar. Summary We can conclude that Shaykh Abdul Wahab Muttaqi Makki, Shaykh Aman-ullah Pani Patti, Shaykh Abdul Haq Muhadith Dehlavi, Mirza Mazhare Jane-Janan, Shah Walliullah Muhadith Dehlavi, Shah Abdul Aziz Muhhadith Dehlavi, and other Awliya Allah and scholars of Islam (may Allah bestow His mercy upon them all) not only accepted the reasoning and concept of the Ghyarhween Shareef but themselves used the words of Ghuas-e-Azam and Ghuas-ul-Saqalain for Hadhrat Syedinna Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani (may Allah be well pleased with him). From the writings of Hadhrat Shaykh Abdul Haq Muhadith Dehlavi (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) in the Ma Sabita Bis-Sunnah, it is clear that the Giyarhween Shareef was famous in all the cities from 958 Hijri to 1052 Hijri. So Giyarhween Shareef and the Urs of Awliya Kiraam (may Allah bestow His mercy upon him) has been a practice of the Muslim Ummah for centuries. We also understand that Isaal-e-Sawaab is a well-established Islamic practice as is reading the Holy Quran upon food for spiritual blessings. We ask Allah ta'ala to forgive us and guide us to follow the Sunnah of our Holy Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) and serve the Awliya Kiram. Ameen.

The Zikr and Du’a of Shaikh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani The Qadria tariqa is one of Zikrullah, remembrance of Allah. The plural of zikr is azkaar. The azkaar and du’a (supplications) of Shaikh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani Radi Allahu ‘Anhu have been compiled in many kutub (books), one of which is al-Fuyudhaat ur Rabbaniyya (Emanations of Lorldly Grace). It gives the invocations and supplications of Shaikh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani to be recited after every salah (regular obligatory prayer), for each day of the week, as well as for various special occasions. The zikr mainly consists of the recitation of the Kalima Shahada (Declaration of Faith), Asma u’l Husna (the Most Beautiful Names of Allah) and of salawaat (invocation of blessings on the beloved Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him). One of the voluntary zikr recommended to be recited individually after every salah (regular obligatory prayer) is as follows: After Fajr: Yaa ‘Azizu Yaa Allah (100 times) (O The Mighty, O Allah) After Zuhr: Yaa Karimu Yaa Allah (100 times) (O The Generous, O Allah) After ‘Asr: Yaa Jabbaru Yaa Allah (100 times) (O The Compeller, O Allah) After Maghrib: Yaa Sattaru Yaa Allah (100 times) (O The Concealer of faults, O Allah) After ‘Isha: Yaa Ghaffaru Yaa Allah (100 times) (O The Forgiver, O Allah) A short article such as this one cannot explain in any detail all the invocations and supplications of the Shaikh. But we can perhaps benefit from reciting at least one of his du’a (supplications). His du’a entitled Du’a u’l Jalalah (The Majestic Supplication) is so rich and rewarding that many mashaayikh choose to include it in their kutub (books), Bismillah i’r Rahman i’r Rahim Allahumma inni as’aluka bi-Sirri-dh-Dhaati wa bi-Dhaat-is-Sirri Huwa Anta wa Anta Huwa ihtajabtu bi-Nurillah wa bi-Nuri ‘Arshillah wa bi-kulli Ismillah min ‘aduwwee wa ‘aduwwillah bi maa’ati alfi Laa hawla walaa quwwata illaa Billah khatamtu ‘alaa nafsi wa ‘alaa ahli wa ‘alaa kulli shay-in A’taaneehi Rabbi bi-Khaatamillahi’l manee’illadhi khatama bihi aqtaar-as-samaawaati wa’l ard, wa Hasbunallahu wa Ni’mal Wakil Ni’mal Mawlaa wa Ni’man Naseer Wa laa hawla walaa quwwata illaa Billahi’l ‘Aliyyi’l ‘Azim wa Sallallahu ‘alaa Sayyidina Muhammad-in wa ‘alaa aalihi wa sahbihi wa sallama ajma’een. Aameen In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful. (1:1) O Allah! I ask of You for the sake of the Mystery of the Essence and for the sake of the Essence of the Mystery, both the Essence and the Mystery being Yours, that may I be protected by the Sacred Light of Allah, by the Light of the Throne of Allah and by all the Names of Allah from my enemies and from all the devils (enemies of Allah), (I supplicate to You O Allah) with a hundred thousand times recitation of (this glorification of Yours): “There is no strength nor power except with Allah”. I have sealed myself and my family and all the things that my Lord has given me, with the impregnable seal of Allah with which He has sealed all the regions of the heavens and the earth, and Allah is sufficient for us and what an excellent Trustee is He. (3:173) What an Excellent Patron and what an Excellent Helper. (8:40) “And there is neither strength nor power except with Allah, the Exalted, the Almighty”. And may Allah bestow blessings and peace on our master Sayyidina Muhammad, on his family and all his companions, Aameen. Such was the spiritual status of Shaikh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani that in response to his du’a (supplication), Allah would turn a shaqiy (unfortunate person) into a sa’id (someone destined for salvation). Indeed he has so spiritually transformed the lives of so many Muslims in such significant ways that they never forget to mention him in their du’a (supplications to Allah). May Allah, the Glorified and the Exalted make us benefit from him, Aameen.

The Salawaat of Shaikh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani Shaikh ‘Abdul Qadir Jilani Radi Allahu ‘Anhu has composed so many salawaat on the beloved holy Prophet Muhammad Mustafa Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam that their compilation would fill a volume. His three most well-known salawaat are: As-Salaat u’l Ghousia, named after him as it is the most famous. As-Salaatu Kibriti’l Ahmar which means red sulphur or “the Philosopher’s Stone”, or something that is very rare to come by. As-Salaat u’l Kubra or the “big salaat”. This looks like a bouquet of flowers straight from Paradise consisting of 33 salawaat, and du’a (supplication), all richly interspersed together with 25 verses of the Holy Qur’an. Muslims love these salawaat so much that they make them their wazifa (regular voluntary devotion). For this reason, spiritual masters as well as spiritual seekers include them in their books of salawaat. Two such great Muslim luminaries who have included As-Salaat u’l Ghousia in their compilations of salawaat are Imam Muhammad ibn Sulayman al-Jazuli (passed away 870 A.H/1465 C.E) in Dalaail u’l Khayraat (Proofs of Good Deeds), and Hadrat Mulla ‘Ali al-Qaari (passed away 1014 A.H/1606 C.E) in Hizb u’l A’zam (The Exalted Supplication). Some of the kutub (books) that contain all three of these salawaat (and more) are: Al-Fuyudaat u’r Rabbaniyya (Emanations of Lorldly Grace) of al-Hajj Isma’il ibn as-Sayyid Muhammad Sa’id al-Qadiri, Awraad u’l Qadiriyya (Regular Voluntary Invocations of the Qadria) of Muhammad Salim Bawwab, and As-Salawaat li’l Awliya wa’s Salihin (Invocations of Blessings by the Saints and the Pious), published by Iqra Islamic Publications in Toronto. At this juncture, let us seize the opportunity of reciting his most famous salaat, that is, As-Salaat u’l Ghousia. Allahumma Salli ‘alaa Sayyidina Muhammad-in as-Saabiqi li’l khalqi nuruhu wa Rahmatulli’l ‘aalamina zuhuruhu ‘adada man madaa min khalqiqa wa man baqiya wa man sa’ida minhum wa man shaqiya Salaatan tastaghriqu’l ‘adda wa tuhitu bi’l haddi Salaatan laa ghaayata lahaa wa laa muntahaa wa lanqidaa’a Salaatan daaimatan bi-Dawaamika? ? wa ‘alaa aalihi wa sahbihi wa sallim tasleeman mithla dhaalik. O Allah! Bestow blessings on our master Muhammad whose light was created first, and whose appearance is a mercy for all the worlds, as many times as the number of Your creations past and yet to come among those that are blessed and those that are unfortunate; such blessings that are unlimited and unbounded, countless, endless, never finishing; such blessings that are permanent by virtue of Your permanence, and on his family and companions, and in the same manner complete salutations as well.