Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu)

Hafiz Usman Munawwar


Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) was the fourth Khalifah of Islam. Some of the titles given to Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) were Al-Murtada (one contented with the Decree of Allah), Asadullah (the Lion of Allah) and Abu Turab (Father of sand). He was also known as Abul Hasan which means the father of Imam Hasan (Rady Allahu Anhu). Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) was born on Friday 13th of Rajab. He was the cousin of Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam). His father’s name was Abu Talib and his mother’s name was Fatimah bint Asad.

Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) was the first from among the children to accept Islam. He was only eleven years old when he accepted Islam. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) loved Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) and Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) also loved Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam). He later went on to marry Sayyidatina Fatimah (Rady Allahu Anha), the daughter of Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam). They had two sons and their names were Imam Hasan (Rady Allahu Anhu) and Imam Husain (Rady Allahu Anhu). Together, Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam), Sayyidina Ali, Sayyidatina Fatimah, Imam Hasan, and Imam Husain (Rady Allahu Anhum) are known as Ahl al-Bayt which means the People of the Household of Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam). We Muslims love the family of Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) like our own family.

Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu anhu) was very brave and strong. This is why he is known as Asadullah which means the Lion of Allah. His love for Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta‘ala) was indeed very great. In the wars against the disbelievers, Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) fought very bravely. There was one incident when Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) went to Madinah because he had received news that his enemies were going to come to his house and try to kill him. Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) was so brave that he got into the bed of Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam). Before leaving, Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) had told Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) to meet him in Madinah. When the enemies picked up the blanket they saw Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu). They were very angry to see that it was not Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) and they left. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) had left everyone’s belongings with Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) to be distributed to their rightful owners. When he gave everyone’s things back, they asked him if he was scared while he slept in the bed of Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam). He replied that he was not scared because Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) had told him to meet him in Madinah. So he knew nothing would happen to him. This shows us how brave Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) was, and how much he loved and trusted Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam).

Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) was also a very knowledgeable person. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) had once said, “I am the city of knowledge, and Ali is its gate.” This is why Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) was also given the title of Bab ul-‘Ilm which means The Gate of Knowledge. This was only one title among many that were given to Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu).

Sayyidina Ali (R.A.A) lived a very simple life and he was a great person. His braveness was clearly visible and his love for Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta‘ala) and for His Rasul (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) was unquestionable. He was martyred at Kufa in Iraq on Monday, the 21st of Ramadan 40 A.H. at the age of 63. He was buried in Najaf, near Kufa. We have learned a great deal from Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu)’s dedication to Islam. May Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta‘ala) grant this Ummah more people to follow in the footsteps of Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu). Amin.

SAYYIDINA UTHMAN (RADY ALLAHU ANHU)


Muzna Jin


Sayyidina Uthman ibn Affan (Rady Allahu Anhu) was born in the 6th year of the elephant (576 C.E). He was of the Quraish tribe. He was married to two daughters of the Prophet (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam). So he was given the title of Zinnurain which means Possessor of the Two Lights. First he was married to Sayyidatina Ruqayya (Rady Allahu Anha) and when she passed away, he married Sayyidatina Umm Kulthum (Rady Allahu Anha) who also passed away. Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam) said that if he had another daughter, he would have given her in marriage to Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu).

He belonged to a rich family in Makkah and was one of the first to accept Islam. When persecution of Muslims by non-believers increased, he migrated to Ethiopia. Later, he also migrated to Madina with the rest of the Muslims and participated in the major events. He generously gave his wealth to help fellow Muslims, so he is affectionately called Uthman Ghani. He donated many wells to provide water for the Muslims. We Muslims pray to Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta‘ala) to make us as generous as Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu).

He participated in important matters of state and was one of the Prophet’s writers. He was well-known for his modesty.

When Sayyidina Umar ibn al-Khattab (Rady Allahu Anhu) who was the second Khalifa passed away, Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) was elected as the third Khalifa.

Despite his great wealth, he led a simple life. He was a patient and pious man with total trust in Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta‘ala). During his time as Khalifa, he expanded the Prophet’s Masjid in Madina.

Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) was Khalifa for twelve years. During his Khilafat, Islam spread from Morocco in the west to Afghanistan in the east.

Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) besides being a relative of the Prophet (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) and his son-in-law was one of his closest aides, his secretary, and writer. After the passing away of the Prophet (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam), Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) became secretary to Sayyidina Abu Bakr (Rady Allahu Anhu), and later to Sayyidina Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu).

During the time of the Prophet (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam), the greatest scholars were those who had memorized the Qur’an and so he was among the greatest scholars of the day. When he was Khalifa, he got the existing copy of the Qur’an and had several copies reproduced which he sent to various towns. His love for the Qur’an was great and he recited a great deal of it. At the time he was martyred in Madina, he was reciting the Qur’an.

Many books and qasidas have been written about Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu), praising his achievements and his goodness.

His name is mentioned in the Friday Khutbah. The names of all the first four Khalifas are mentioned in the Friday Khutbah. They are Sayyidina Abu Bakr Siddiq, Sayyidina Umar Faruq, Sayyidina Uthman Zinnurain, and Sayyidina Ali Murtada (Rady Allahu Anhum).

Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu

By: Hafiz Usman Munawwar

Sayyidina Umar ibn al-Khattab Rady Allahu Anhu was the second Khalifa of Islam. He became Khalifa after Sayyidina Abu Bakr Rady Allahu Anhu passed away. Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu was Khalifa for 10 years. He was a very strict and powerful man and all his enemies were afraid of him. Even shaitaan was afraid of him. It has been stated in a Hadith by Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam, “If Umar is walking on a street and shaitaan is coming from the opposite direction, shaitaan would take another street out of fear of him”.

Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu was given the title, al-Faruq, which means he who distinguishes truth from falsehood. This title was given to him by the tribe of Quraish who admired Sayyidina Umar’s (Rady Allahu Anhu) skills to solve problems. He was a very pious and righteous Muslim.

However, before he became a Muslim, he opposed the religion of Islam, and so was an enemy of the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam. An incident took place when he took a sword and went to kill the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam and on his way a man told him that his sister and her husband became Muslims. On hearing this, Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu marched into his sister’s house and he heard Surah Taha from the Holy Qur’an being recited. He was so impressed after hearing Surah Taha that he went to the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam. When he arrived, the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam was informed that Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu came to kill him but the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam still let him in. Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu then said the Shahadah and became Muslim in the blessed gathering of the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam and his Companions. He was the 40th man to accept Islam.

Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu led a very simple life. He gave half of his property to Islam. He also took part in all the battles with Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam. His daughter, Sayyidatina Hafsa, was the Prophet’s (Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) wife. He also introduced Taraweeh prayers in congregation during Ramadan.

Islam spread far and wide during his time as a Khalifa. Hadrat Khalid bin Walid Rady Allahu Anhu was one of his greatest generals who conquered many parts of the world. Some people say that if Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu were Khalifa for 10 more years, Islam would have spread all over the world.

Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu passed away at the age of 63 and he was laid to rest beside the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam and Sayyidina Abu Bakr As-Siddiq Rady Allahu Anhu in Madina. Even though Sayyidatina Aisha Rady Allahu Anha wanted to be laid to rest beside the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam, she gave permission to Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu. This shows the greatness and importance of Sayyidina Umar Rady Allahu Anhu.

Sayyidina Abu Bakr As-Siddiq Rady Allahu Anhu

By: Naseem Ahmed

Sayyidina Abu Bakr As-Siddiq Rady Allahu Anhu is a blessed Companion of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam, the first one among men to accept Islam, and the first rightly-guided Khalifa or successor. He is a warrior of the Battle of Badr. He is the father of Sayyidatina Aisha Rady Allahu Anha.

Sayyidina Abu Bakr Rady Allahu Anhu is two years younger than the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam. His real name is Abdul Kaba, the servant of the Kaba, but when he became a Muslim, his name was changed to Abdullah. He adopted the name Abu Bakr which is the name everyone calls him by.

Ever since he was young, he was a good and an upright person. He had the respect of many people, especially of the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam. He was a rich and generous person. Everyone trusted him for he had a good heart and no one could stop him from doing the right thing.

“Abu Bakr did not hesitate to accept Islam”, the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam said. He spread Islam in every way he could, and wherever the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam went, he went. He protected the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam from anything, even a snake, as he doesn’t care even if he himself gets hurt.

He helped many people and had the title of Siddiq. Siddiq is a person who is truthful. He earned this title because his faith was too strong to be shaken by anything.

Sayyidina Abu Bakr Rady Allahu Anhu took part in all the battles. In Tabuk, he even took all his things to help an expedition. When the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam asked him: what have you kept for yourself? He replied: nothing. Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala and His Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam are enough for me.

When Sayyidina Abu Bakr Rady Allahu Anhu became Khalifa of Islam after the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam passed away, he told the people: “O people, I have been elected your leader even though I am not better than anyone from among you. If I do any good, give me your support. If I go wrong, set me right. Listen, truth is honesty, and untruth is dishonesty. The weak among you are strong in my eyes as long as I do not get them their due, Allah willing. The powerful among you are weak in my eyes as long as I do not take away from them what is due to the others, Allah willing. Listen, if people give up striving for the cause of Allah, Allah sends down disgrace on them. If people become evil doers, Allah sends down calamities on them. Listen, you must obey me as long as I obey Allah and His Messenger. If I disobey Allah and His Messenger, you are free to disobey me.”

Sayyidina Abu Bakr Rady Allahu Anhu passed away at the age of sixty-three. I believe he is one of the most amazing persons in Islam, really in the whole humanity of the world.

Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha

By: Syed Ahmed Ali

Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha is one of the four greatest ladies of Islam along with Sayyidatina Asiya Alayhassalam (wife of the Pharaoh); Sayyidatina Maryam Alayhassalam, (the Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of Prophet Isa Alayhissalam); and Sayyidatina Fatima Rady Allahu Anha, (daughter of the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam). She was the first person to accept Islam. She was also the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam and played a vital role in his life. They were married when the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam was twenty five years old and she was forty. They were happily married for twenty five years until she passed away. They had four daughters; Zainab, Ruqayya, Umm Kulthum and Fatima; and two sons Qasim and Abdullah. She is described as the “First mother of the Faithful” because she was the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad Sallalahu ‘alayhi was Sallam and because she was the first woman on earth to accept Islam and declare her belief in Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi was Sallam’s Prophethood. Her other titles are “al-Kubra” which means the Great, “Ameerat Quraysh” which means Princess of Quraysh and “al-Tahira” which means the Pure One as she did many good things for the people at that time.

The Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam loved Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha a lot and never let anyone say anything bad about her. He said: To me, she was one of the best human beings; she was the first to believe in me, she gave me her moral and material support and I had all my children but one from her. This shows how much the Prophet Muhammad Sallalahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam loved and cared for Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha.

Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha did many good things for the less fortunate and her relatives. Some of her many good deeds even before marrying the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam were feeding and clothing the poor, helping her relatives by giving them money and helping her relatives get married. She used a lot of her wealth and profit from her business to help the poor, widows, orphans, the sick and the disabled people of Makkah and when she died it is reported she did not even leave a penny. Another great quality of Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha was that despite the fact that people in her tribe of Quraysh worshipped idols, she did not worship them and never believed in them but believed in one God.

Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha helped the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam in many ways especially when he became a Prophet of Allah. When the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam received the first revelation, he came home feverish but Sayyidatina Khadija Radhy Allahu Anha helped him throughout this time by providing him with love, care and moral support. She took him to her Christian cousin whose name was Waraqa ibn Nawfal. When her cousin heard what happened to the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam he said: Holy, Holy! By Him who dominates Waraqa’s soul, if your report is true, this must be the great Spirit that spoke to Moses. Muhammad you must be the Prophet of the nation and if I were young, I would have supported you.

The Holy Qur’an says: The Prophet is closer to the believers than their own selves and his wives are like their mothers (33:6). Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha was instrumental in helping the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam spread the word of Islam especially in the early stages. She was such a great lady that even Allah sent blessings on her. One day, Hadrat Jibril Alayhissalam came down and told the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi was Sallam to convey peace and blessings of Allah to Khadija. Hearing this, Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha exclaimed: Did Allah mention my name, O Prophet of Allah? “Yes indeed” was the Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam’s answer. Sayyidatina Khadija Radhy Allahu Anha then said: And unto Allah be all the blessings and peace.

Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha passed away on the 10th of Ramadan, 3 years before Hijra at the age of 65 and she is buried in Makkah in the cemetery of Ma‘lah. The Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam called the year in which Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha passed away “Aam-ul-Huzn” meaning the year of grief. The Holy Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa Sallam did not marry any other woman while he was married to Sayyidatina Khadija Rady Allahu Anha and later on said that she was the best among his wives. He said that Allah has provided her with a palace in Paradise.

Sayyidatina Aisha Rady Allahu ‘Anha

by: Naseem Ahmed

Sayyidatina Aisha is one of the most important wives of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. She was born in 9 B.H. and she passed away in 58 A.H, living up to 67 years old. Her whole name is Aisha Siddiqah bint Abu Bakr as Siddiq. She is the daughter of Sayyidina Abu Bakar Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu). Her father is a close Companion of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. and is our first Khalifh. She is known as one of the Mothers of Faithful Believers as she is the Prophet’s third wife.

We know that she is one of the most important wives because Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. said that one day he had a dream. In that dream, he was presented with a gift from Heaven. When he opened that gift, he saw Sayyidatina Aisha. What that meant was that Allah informed Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. that he had to marry Sayyidatina Aisha.

Many of the wives of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. were widows, divorcees, and captives of war. Sayyidatina Aisha was not any of them, she was the only virgin that Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. married. Among women, Sayyidatina Aisha reported the greatest number of Ahadith (Sayings) of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

                                              Arkan al-Islam

By: Usman Munawwar

The five pillars of Islam are Shahadah, Salah, Zakah, Sawm and Hajj. We as Muslims have to perform these pillars because Allah has commanded us to perform them. Shahadah means declaration of faith, Salah means the five daily compulsory prayers, Zakah means poor-due, Sawm means fasting in the month of Ramadan and Hajj is the Muslim Pilgrimage to Makkah.

The first pillar of Islam, Shahadah means declaration of faith. The Shahadah is Laa Ilaaha Illallah Muhammad ur Rasulullah. These words mean that “None is worth of worship but Allah; Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah”. This declaration is called Kalimah Tayyibah. It summarizes the whole of Islamic belief. The other four pillars make up Ibadah which is done to gain Allah’s favor. Shahadah concerns belief in Tawhid (Oneness of Allah) and Risalah (Messengership) of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.

The second pillar of Islam is Salah which means five daily compulsory prayers. When the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, went on Mi’raj he was given the five daily Salah. First we pray Fajr. Its time is from dawn until just before sunrise. Second is Zuhr. Its time is after mid-day until the afternoon. Third is Asr. Its time is from late afternoon until just before sunset. Fourth is Maghrib. Its time is after sunset until darkness sets in. Fifth is Isha. Its at night time until just before dawn. We should start praying Salah at seven years of age, at ten we should get hit if we don’t pray.

The third pillar of Islam is Zakah which means poor-due. Zakah is payable on wealth such as agricultural produce, gold and silver ornaments, cash in hand or at the bank, trading goods, cows, buffaloes, goats, sheep and camels and, produce of mines. There is a minimum amount on which Zakah is not payable. This minimum amount is called nisab. Those who have more than this minimum amount have to pay Zakah. The nisab of agricultural produce is 653 kg per harvest. The nisab for gold and silver ornaments is 85 grams of gold or 595 grams of silver. The nisab for cash in hand or at the bank is value of 595 grams of silver. The nisab for trading goods is value of 595 grams of silver. The nisab for goats and sheep is 40 in number.

Zakah is paid every year. The rate of Zakah for agricultural produce is 5 percent produce in case of irrigated land or 10 percent of produce from rain-fed land. The rate of Zakah for gold and silver ornaments is 2.5 percent of value. The rate of Zakah for cash in hand or at the bank is 2.5 percent of the amount. The rate of Zakah for trading goods is 2.5 percent value of goods. The rate of Zakah for produce of mines is 20 percent of value of produce. If we pay Zakah we keep our wealth clear of greed and selfishness.

The fourth pillar of Islam is Sawm which means fasting in the month of Ramadan. This means abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking and conjugal relations during the time of fasting. Travelers and sick people can defer from fasting in the month of Ramadan and they can make up for the fasts later. The duty of fasting is only for Allah’s sake and Allah Himself will reward for it. A Muslim is expected to keep away from all bad actions during his/her fast. He shouldn’t lie, break a promise or do any deceitful act. The main thing of fasting is to make a Muslim able to control his/her passions, so that he/she becomes a person of good deeds and intentions. In addition to the compulsory fasting in Ramadan, a Muslim may fast during other times of the year.

The fifth pillar of Islam is Hajj which is the Pilgrimage to Makkah. It is a visit to Al-Ka’bah, the House of Allah in Makkah, once in a lifetime by those who can afford to make the journey. Its is performed during the period of the 8th to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calender. Al-Ka’bah was first built by Prophet Adam, peace be upon him, and later rebuild by Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, and his son Prophet Ismail, peace be upon him. When the Muslims perform Hajj, they also visit the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, in Madina, as it is Sunnah.

We should act according to the five pillars of Islam to please Allah, and Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him

                                  Why I am Proud to be Muslim

“The true religion with Allah is Islam. (Qur’an, 3:19).

And whoever desires another religion than Islam, it shall not be accepted of him.” (Qur’an, 3:85)

Islam is a true religion. It is the religion of Allah the Almighty and his beloved Messenger, Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. Islam is one of the major religions of the world, with Muslims making 20% of the total population of the world. It is also one of the fastest growing religions in the world. These are some of the several reasons for which I am proud to be a Muslim.

Islam is a complete way of life. The Holy Qur’an and the Hadith teach us how to live a civilized life. Islam teaches us purity and encourages cleanliness. It teaches us respect towards our parents and elders. It teaches us to help the less fortunate, by giving alms and charity to them. There is equality in Islam. All Muslims are equal in the eyes of Allah, whether they are Arabs, African or Indian. There is unity among Muslims. Each Muslim helps his fellow Muslim brother. These beautiful attributes of Islam make me proud to be a Muslim.

The most important reason for which I am proud of Islam is the Holy Prophet, Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam is the greatest prophet of Allah. There is not a single prophet or a man that can match the qualities of our beloved Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. He was a preacher, a statesman and a ruler. His sunnah is the best example a Muslim can follow. He is still considered the greatest leader by many non-Muslims in the West.

Islam has also had a huge influence on the entire world. This is another important reason that makes me proud of Islam. Muslim scientists and scholars formed the basis of the European Renaissance. Muslim mathematicians and scientists were important contributors to medicine, technology and philosophy. Islamic medicine and science influenced Europe greatly during the fifteenth century.

Muslims should be proud of their religion. They should not be embarrassed to be Muslims. Allah the Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an, “You are the best of the nations raised up for (the benefit of) mankind; you enjoin what is right and forbid the wrong and believe in Allah.” (3:110)

Muslims are the best nation created by Allah. We were created in the best stature and will remain so, as long as we obey Allah. He says in the Qur’an, “Surely, we created man of the best stature; Then we reduced him to the lowest of low; Except such as believe and do righteous deeds. For they shall have a reward unfailing.” (95:4-6)

The companions of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam were proud of being Muslims. For this reason, they were able to defeat the non-believers and were able to conquer so many parts of the world. They did not hide themselves in a corner, afraid to declare their faith. They were proud of their religion. An excellent example of this display of Muslim pride was Abu Dharr Ghifari. He accepted Islam at a time when Muslims were being tortured and persecuted. After accepting Islam, the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam told him not to tell anyone in Makkah about his acceptance of Islam because the non-believers might kill him. But Abu Dharr vowed to proclaim his faith. He told the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam that he would go to the Sacred Mosque and proclaim his faith. The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam remained silent. Later, he went to the Holy Ka’ba, where the Quraish were sitting and talking. He called out in a loud voice, “O people of Quraish, I testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” Immediately, they jumped on him and began to beat him cruelly. But Hadrat Abbas, the Prophet’s uncle saw him and told the Quraish to stop beating him up, since he belonged to the Ghifar tribe of Syria and his death could end the trade between Syria and Makkah.

This sahabi had so much pride in his religion that he announced it in front of his enemies, even at the risk of his life. We should be proud of our religion. We are not supposed to hide our faith unless our lives are in danger like the time when Muslims were being persecuted in Makkah. But once they had the strength to defend themselves, they spread their religion. They took the message of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam to different people and different kings. They were proud of their religion because they knew that Islam was and is the truth. They knew that their duty was to spread Islam.

I am proud to be a Muslim and I feel that Muslims should be proud of their religion. They should display their faith and should be proud to be a part of this beautiful religion called Islam.
References:
The Holy Qur’an

                                        How I can help my Parents

                                             By: Syed Abid Ali

These are the suggestions of how to help your loving parents that Allah has given you. First of all you should have respect for your parents. Listen to their commands like if they tell you to clean up your room, wash the dishes, help them clean the car, sweep the floor, clean the table, vacuum the floor. Do their chores like help them throw the garbage out. Obey them. Be obedient and helpful with all their problems they have. Give them medicine when they are sick.

Give them your love. Do well in studies to make your parents proud of you. You should try to pay back what your parents do for you. Like when they cook for you, wash your clothes, buy new clothes for you, work for you, help you in education and they give you their love. We are very lucky because some childrens don’t have caring parents like our parents.

To disobey one’s parents, to ignore their feelings, or to disregard their comfort and happiness in any other way has been characterized by Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) a grievous sin. Don’t upset them by watching too much television, steal and not get involved in fights when they told you not to.

When you do a chore for them be happy to do it, not sad. Never disobey them by things that you were asked not to do. Sometimes you are tired and sleepy so you disturb your parents by annoying them, making trouble when they are doing something important like when they are writing a resume for work.

But they don’t have the respect they need to have. If you ever have something like that try to avoid it. This by the way happens to lots of people all around the world. Most of them are bad so don’t do that.

Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) said that if you do good deeds with your parents it is worth Salah, Zakah, Fasting, Hajj, Umra and Jihad. We shall obey our parents with a good behavior like show respect when your parents are talking. It is our duty to look after their needs and comfort them with your respect.

We should talk to them with a low voice as respect. When they are old we shall take care of them so that they will never feel neglected. We should ask forgiveness to our parents when we commit a mistake knowingly or annoyingly.

Never argue with your parents or else Allah will be very angry and upset at you. Whenever you do something do not let your parents feel upset and angry by our behavior towards them.

You could help your parents by so many ways. But the one that gives you the most sawabs, impresses Allah and the best one is to be obedient and have respect for them. That’s why I talked about those two the most. I’m not saying other stuff is bad and only do those stuff. What I am saying is that other ones are good but those two are the best ones.

Make dua for them in your prayers so you thank Allah for your parents. The Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) said that whoever pleases their parents pleases Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala and whoever angers their parents angers Allah subhanahu wa Ta’ala. So be good to your parents.

One-day three people were stuck in a cave with a big stone in the way to get out. They said let’s make dua and tell the best thing we did in our dua then Allah will get us out of the cave. Two people said their best deed they had done and nothing happened. So the third person said the best deed he had done. He said that the best thing I did was when I used to bring milk for my parents and children everyday. But one day he brought only some milk. So he gave the milk to his parents and not to his children. He then massaged his parents feet and took care of them. Then he made dua. Allah (s.w.t) heard that deed and moved the big rock out of the way and the three people went out of the cave. So if you help your parents like how this man did you could get out of big troubles like this one and other big ones.

If you read all day salah, Qur’an or anything and if somebody takes care of their parents the one who is taking care of their parents is getting more sawab. You can never be an Imam or Shaykh if you were bad to your parents that’s haram in Islam. Our deeds shall be the pleasure of our parents and of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala.

If you were good to your parents and when you grow up your kids will be good to you. If you were bad to your parents and when you grow up your kids will be bad to you. So if you were good to them it’s good for you too not only your parents.

THE COMPANIONS OF OUR BELOVED PROPHET MUHAMMAD (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam)


By Hamid Syed


The Companions of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) are known as sahabas. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said the sahabas are like stars. Anybody who follows them will get guidance. The main companions of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) were Sayyidina Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu.), Sayyidina Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu), Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) and Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu). They became his Khalifas.

Sayyidina Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu) was the Prophet’s favourite companion.. He was the closest companion of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He was the very first Khalifa. He received the title “Siddiq” meaning truthful. He was the first person to accept Islam. He had a daughter called Aisha (Rady Allahu Anha), who married the Prophet. Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu) is laid to rest beside Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Madina. He fought in many battles with Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) against those who persecuted them.

Sayyidina Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu.) did many good deeds. One night when the stars were up in the sky. Bibi Aisha asked Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) who has done more good deeds than all the stars above? Then Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said that Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu) has done more good deeds than all those stars above.

Sayyidina Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu) was the second Khalifa after Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu) passed away. He was Khalifa for 10 years. During his time as a Khalifa, Islam spread far and wide. Some people say that if he were Khalifa for another 10 years Islam would have spread all around the world. Hadrat Umar’s daughter Hafsa (Rady Allahu Anha) was Prophet Muhammad’s wife. Shaitaan was so scared of Hadrat Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu) that there is a Hadith where the Prophet said, “If Hadrat Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu) is walking on a street and Shaitaan approaches him, Shaitaan will run away and take another street”. He was very brave. Sayyidina Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu) received the title “Farooq” which means the one who distinguishes truth from falsehood. He took part in all the battles with the Prophet including the battle of Badr.

At first, he was not a Muslim. When the Prophet was spreading Islam to the people he was not happy and decided to kill the Prophet. One day Hadrat Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu) took his sword and went to kill the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). On his way a man told him that his sister and her husband had become Muslims. When Hadrat Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu) heard this, he got really angry and started going to his sister’s house. Then when he went to his sister’s house he heard the surah Taha being recited. So he hit his sister who started bleeding and he felt sorry for her and told her to continue reading. When he heard the recitation of the Qur’an he was convinced it was a revelation from Allah. Then he went to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and became a Muslim .He was the fortieth person to become a Muslim. Hadrat Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu) is buried besides the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Madina.

Sayyidina Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) was the third Khalifa after Hadrat Umar (Rady Allahu Anhu). He was Khalifa for 12 years. He was the ambassador of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He received the title “Ghani” meaning rich. He was given that title because he gave a lot of his wealth for Islam. He brought camels loaded with goods for the war effort. He took part in many battles with the Prophet. He was also given the title Dhun Nurain meaning possessor of two lights because he married two daughters of the beloved Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), one after another, that is, Bibi Ruqayyah (Rady Allahu Anha) and after she passed away ,Umm Kulthum (Rady Allahu Anha). He is one of the Asharatul Mubashara meaning one of the ten who were promised Paradise by the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He belonged to the tribe of Quraish. He did hijrah two times, first to Abyssinia, then to Madina.

The Qur’an was compiled on the instructions of Hadrat Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) by the companions of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam.), just as it was recited in the time of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). After the Qur’an was compiled together Hadrat Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) made many copies of the Qur’an and distributed it to major cities. Therefore he is known as ” Jami ul Qur’an”.

One day when Hadrat Uthman (Rady Allahu Anhu) was reciting the Qur’an in his house, traitors came from behind and killed him. His blood is on the page of the Qur’an he was reciting. He was a shaheed. He died at the age of 81. He is buried in Jannat ul Baqi.

Sayyidina Ali received the title Asadullah meaning Lion of Allah. Hadrat Ali was the cousin of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Hadrat Ali was born in the Ka’ba. His father was Abu Talib. He is one of the Asharatul Mubashara. When he first opened his eyes he saw Prophet Muhammad. He was raised up by Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He slept in the bed of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) when the Prophet went on hijra. He is called the gate of knowledge. He was a Hafiz ul Qur’an. He is one of the first people to accept Islam. He was also the first youth to accept Islam. Hadrat Ali married Bibi Fatima. He had two children, Sayyidina Imam Hasan and Sayyidina Imam Husain. He fought in many battles with Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) including the battle of Badr. He killed the best warrior of the enemies in a man to man combat. He took part in man to man battles.

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) loved Hadrat Ali because he was a very charitable person. Once when Imam Hasan (Rady Allahu Anhu) and Imam Husain (Rady Allahu Anhu) were ill, Hadrat Ali and Bibi Fatima made a vow that, after their two sons recover, they will fast for three days. Allah Ta’ala then blessed their children with good health. So now Hadrat Ali and Bibi Fatima had to fast. When their fast was completed and Hadrat Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) came back from the Masjid after performing Magrib Salat, the family sat down for dinner. As soon as Hadrat Ali Rady Allahu Anhu picked up the bread in his hand he heard a voice of a beggar saying “Give me some thing to eat and may Allah Ta’laa feed you with delicious food of Jannah!” When they heard the beggar they decided that they should give him the bread.

On the second fast, when Hadrat Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) came back from the Masjid after praying the Magrib salah, the family sat down for dinner, when they heard a voice of an orphan from outside who asked for food and said that he was very poor and alone in the world. So again they gave him the bread and broke their fast with water.

On their last fast, when Hadrat Ali came back from the Masjid after performing Magrib Salah the family sat down for dinner, they heard a voice of a prisoner, who asked for help and said that he was in great distress. So they gave him the bread and again they went to bed without any food.

On the fourth day no one was fasting, but they had nothing to eat. So Hadrat Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) then took Imam Hasan (Rady Allahu Anhu) and Imam Husain (Rady Allahu Anhu) to Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “It pains me to see you suffering from want and misery. Let us go to Fatima (Rady Allahu Anha)”. When Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) went to Bibi Fatima (Rady Allahu Anha) and saw that she was observing Nafl salaat. Her eyes had sunk in, and her stomach had drawn close to her back, from excessive starvation. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) took her to his bosom and invoked Allah’s mercy for her and her family.

At this, Jibreel (Alayhissalam) came with revelation of the verses of the Qur’an. The meaning of the verse of the Qur’an is
“And they give food out of love for Him to the poor and the orphan and the captive.” (76:8)

Jibreel (Alayhissalam) then congratulated them saying Allah Ta`ala was very pleased with them. And that’s how much charitable Sayyidina Ali (Rady Allahu Anhu) and Bibi Fatima (Rady Allahu Anha) were.

Hadrat Bilal (Rady Allahu Anhu) was a Sahabi who loved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). He was the first muezzin in Islam. He had the most beautiful voice. He always read two rakah after he made wudu. This is called “Sunnah tul Wudu” When he was a slave, he was beaten up, dragged in the burning sand and had heavy stones put on his chest to force him to say that he is not a Muslim but he always said,”Ahad, Ahad,” meaning, ‘one, one’ (Allah is one). He loved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) so much that after the Prophet passed away, he was so sad that he didn’t feel like giving the Adhan in Madina. Then after a long time he agreed to give the Adhan. But when he got to “Ash’hadu-anna Muhammadar-Rasullullah”, he started to mourn. Hadrat Bilal (Rady Allahu Anhu) set an example for all Muslims to never give up Islam. He is buried is Damascus, Syria.

Another famous companion of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was Hadrat Abu Hurairah who narrated the most ahadith from all the companions.

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) had thousands of companions.

When he performed his farewell pilgrimage, he had 124, 000 of his companions with him. May Allah Ta`ala make us follow in the footsteps of our beloved Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) and of his blessed companions, Rady Allahu Anhum.

                                  The Holy Quran

                                                                   by: Syed Abid Ali

The Quran is a Book of Guidance. The Holy Quran was presented to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alahi wa Salaam) through angel Jibreel alaihissallam. The Quran was given to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alahi wa Salaam) by Allah in the month of Ramadan. Allah also revealed three more books called Taurat, Zaboor and Injil . The Surahs which were revealed in Makkah were called Makki surahs while the surahs which were revealed in Madinah were known as Madani surahs.

The Quran has 114 surahs altogether. The Quran has 6236 ayahs or verses. It also has 30 juz in it. The Quran has 14 sajdahs. The Quran teaches about Allah's message. The Quran teaches Muslims about respect. It also explains about Islam. In the Quran, the words are written in the Quraishi dialect. The language of the Quran is sweet. The first surah of the Quran is Surah al-Fatiha. The last surah of the Quran is Surah An-Nas. The 99 names of Allah or the Asma al-Husna are mentioned in the Quran. The Quran has four different names; they are Furqan, Quran Majeed, Quran Sharif and Quran Karim. Quran is in the Arabic language. It is translated in all the other major languages. All of the words that are in the Quran are Allah's words.




If you listen to the Quran you will live a happy life. When you hold the Quran you should be careful because it might drop and some of your good deeds will be earsed. We all should finish the Quran specially for elders, so Allah could forgive them. Qur'an tells us about Heaven and Hell. Quran is the book of guidance for all mankind till the Day of Judgement. The Quran is the way of life for everybody. The Quran will keep you safe. Allah revealed the Quran, so Muslims could know more about Islam. Quran teaches the spiritual truth of Islam. If the Quraan has commands in it those are Allah's commands. All the verses of the Quran were compiled together in a book form for circulation to various parts of the world. The Quran answers all the questions about life.

The Quran has been the guiding the destiny of mankind. The Quran is more precious than life. The Quran is the path of life. The Quran also takes us to the right path. The Quran is a great noble book. Some Muslims learn parts of the Quran by heart. It is preserved through memory as well as writing. It was written down from the very beginning that Allah has give His protection to it. It will always be preserved. It is the last and final book sent by Allah. It tells us how to serve and worship Allah. It tells us how to live a life of virtue. It tells us how to behave in our homes, like how to treat our parents , brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, neighbours and strangers.

A true Muslim always tries to recite a minimum of one juz per day. We should try to recite the Qur'an everyday. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alahi wa Salaam) said that "a person who doesn't read the Quran is like a ruined house." A person who is not able to understand the Quran but he can read it, he will get sawab.

The verses, which were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alahi wa Salaam), were recorded. There were also some Sahaba who had memorized parts of surahs, but many of them died during battles. During his Khilafah, Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu 'Anh) gathered all these verses and formed the Holy Quran. Later, during the Khilafah of Hadrat Uthman (Rady Allahu 'Anh), people were reciting the Quran in different dialects. The people from Iraq were reciting in the Kufi script while the people in Egypt and Syria were reciting in another dialect. Therefore, Hadrat Uthman (Rady Allahu 'Anh) produced copies of the Quran in the Quraishi dialect and sent them to those countries along with a Qaari (a reciter). And even today, all Muslims whether they live in Egypt or India or Afghanistan, they all recite the Quran in the same dialect, the Quraishi dialect. This service of Hadrat Uthman has helped preserve the Quran in the way it was revealed.

Quran teaches elders to love children. It also teaches childrens to respect elders. Quran has every thing we need to know. Before we read the Quran or a Surah we should say Bismillah -ir- Rahman ir-Rahim. It's translation is: (I begin) In the name of Allah the most Benificent the most Merciful. All Muslims should recite one Juz evryday. You should put the Quran in a clean spot and put it on top of everything. Every Muslim should know how to read the Quran. Allah will be very happy if you memorize the Quran. You could make Allah happy by completing the Quran. You could make Him happier by memorizing the Quran. More people have memorized the Qur'an than any other Book.

               The Holy Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam

                              by ; Syed Yaseen Ali


The people of ancient Arabia were misguided and misled. They disobeyed Allah and worshipped idols. Then
Allah Ta’ala favoured mankind by sending them the best creation of Allah; the Master of humankind and jinns; the greatest personality on earth; the beloved of Allah, Prophet Muhammad Mustafa Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam.

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was born in the month of Rabi’ Awwal in the year 571 C.E. He was a descendant of Prophet Ismail ‘Alayhissalam. His father, Abdullah, died several weeks before his birth. His mother, Amina died during the return journey from Madinah, at a place called Abwa. He was raised by his grandfather, Abdul Muttalib, until the age of eight. After his grandfather’s death, his uncle, Abu Talib, took care of him. Abu Talib treated Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) very kindly. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) would sleep in his uncle’s bed and eat with him.

Under the guidance of Abu Talib, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) began to earn his living as a businessman and a trader. At the age of twelve, he accompanied Abu Talib with a caravan as far as Syria. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was popularly known as ‘al-Ameen’ (the trustworthy) and ‘al-Sadiq’ (the truthful) for his good deeds. His name, Muhammad means “the praised one”.

After hearing about Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam)’s impressive character, Sayyidatna Khadijah (Rady Allahu Anha), a rich business woman, offered Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) money to take some goods for trade to Syria. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) set out for Syria along with Maisarah, a slave of Sayyidatina Khadijah (Rady Allahu Anha). After the trip, Maisarah told Sayyidatina Khadijah (Rady Allahu Anha) all about the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Sayyidatina Khadijah (Rady Allahu Anha) was fascinated by Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Therefore, she married him (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) and Sayyidatina Khadijah (Rady Allahu Anha) were blessed with two sons and four daughters. Their first son, Qasim died at the age of two while their second son, Abdullah, died during his infancy. Prophet Muhammad’s (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) four daughters were Zainab, Ruqayyah, Umm Kulthum and Fatima (Rady Allahu ‘Anhunna).

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) usually went to a cave in Mount Hira for meditation. Sometimes, he would remain in the cave for a month. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was forty years old when Jibril (peace be upon him) appeared before him and revealed the first five verses of Surah Al-Alaq of the Qur’an. After the revelation, Sayyidatina Khadija (Rady Allahu Anha) became the first woman to accept Islam.

Jibreel (peace be upon him) visited Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) and revealed verses of the Qur’an over a period of twenty-three years. Sometimes, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) would receive some parts of a chapter or a whole chapter. They were memorized as soon as they were revealed. These verses were collected in a book, known as the Qur’an.

The first few people to accept Islam were his cousin Hadrat Ali, his servant Hadrat Zayd ibn Harithah, his friend Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhum) and his daughters. They accepted Islam by testifying that ” There is no deity except Allah. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) is Allah’s Messenger”.

In the first three years of Prophet Muhammad’s (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) mission, forty people accepted Islam. He then began to preach Islam in public. The leaders of the Quraish did not accept the new religion. Some of them tried to bribe Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) with money and power, including an offer to make him a king. But our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) refused to abandon Allah’s message. When this did not work, they tried to convince his uncle, Abu Talib, to allow them to kill Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Therefore, his uncle tried to dissuade him from preaching. But Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) said ” O uncle, if they were to put the sun in my right hand and the moon in my left hand to stop me from preaching Islam, I would never stop. I will keep on preaching until Allah makes Islam prevail or I die. ”

The tribe of Quraish began to persecute Muslims by beating and torturing them. The first person to die by this means was a Muslim woman called Umm Ammar. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was publicly humiliated. They threw dirt on him while he was walking on a street and while he was praying in the Kabah. Despite all these hardships, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was told by Allah Ta’ala to be patient and preach the message of the Qur’an. When the punishment became unbearable for Muslims, the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam), advised them to go to Abyssinia (Ethiopia).

The Quraish made life miserable for Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). They made a ban on contact with the Prophet’s (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) family. The ban lasted for three years. After the ban was lifted, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) lost his wife, Sayyidatina Khadijah (Rady Allahu Anha) and his uncle, Abu Talib.

After Sayyidatina Khadijah’s death, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) married Sayyidatina Sawdah (Rady Allahu Anha). She was fifty years old. Later, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) married Sayyidatina Aisha (Rady Allahu Anha). Sayyidatina Aisha (Rady Allahu Anha) was the daughter of Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu), a close companion of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam).

Since his uncle, Abu Talib died; Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) went to Taif, a city south of Makkah, to preach there. But the people of Taif laughed at him. Their children threw stones at our beloved Prophet (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Jibreel (peace be upon him) visited Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) and suggested that the angels were ready to destroy the town. But Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) refused and prayed for the future generations of Taif to accept Islam.

After the incident at Taif, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) experienced the events of Isra and Mi’raaj. During the event of Isra, Jibreel (peace be upon him) took Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) to Masjid Al-Aqsa, a mosque in Jerusalem, at night. Here, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) lead the other Prophets in prayer. After this, the event of Mi’raaj took place. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was taken to the heavens. It was on this journey that he received the gift of the five daily prayers. He was then taken back to Makkah. When Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) mentioned these events to the people of Makkah, they laughed at him. However, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) described the Masjid al-Aqsa to them and told them that a caravan will be arriving soon. The non-believers were later astonished when this turned out to be true.

The leaders of Quraish were getting angry at Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). They decided to kill him. The leaders chose a young man from each clan of Quraish. These men were responsible for attacking Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Jibreel (may peace be upon him) informed Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) about the plan and instructed him to leave immediately. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) advised Hadrat Ali (Rady Allahu ‘Anhu) to sleep in his bed. He then met with Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (Rady Allahu Anhu) and both of them went into hiding in a cave in Mount Thawr.

The next morning, the men raided the house of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). After finding out that he had left, they set out for the mountains in search of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Abu Karz, a man known for his skills in tracking footprints, followed the tracks of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) to the cave. They examined the cave and noticed that a web had covered it’s mouth. They thought that it was impossible for Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) to hide in the cave. So, they departed.

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) spent three nights in the cave. When he was sure that the Quraish had ended their search, he travelled to Madinah. This journey is known as “Hijra”. The Islamic calendar begins with this event. Upon the arrival of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam), the people of Madinah greeted him with great respect and treated him with hospitality.

After the migration to Madinah, the enemies of Islam increased their attack on Muslims. The Battles of Badr, Uhud and the Allies took place and were fought near Madinah. Many men gave their life for Islam. This resulted in many widowed women and lots of orphaned children. Therefore, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) married several widows like Sayyidatina Zainab bint Khuzaimah, Umm Habibah and Umm Salamah, may Allah be pleased with them.. All his wives, especially Sayyidatina Aisha (Rady Allahu Anha), reported many ahadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad).

A year after the Battle of the Allies, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) and fifteen hundred Muslims left for Makkah to perform Hajj. On their journey, they were stopped from entering Hudaybiyah. In this city, some negotiations took place that allowed them to come next year. This treaty attracted many people from Arabia. Many people came from different parts of Arabia and accepted Islam.

Two years later, the Quraish violated the Treaty of Hudaybiyah. So, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) marched to Makkah with an army of 10,000 Muslims. Before entering the city, he told the citizens of Makkah that anyone who remained in his home or in the Kabah, would be safe. The army entered Makkah without fighting and Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) went directly to the Kabah. He thanked Allah, the Almighty for allowing the entry to Makkah. He then pointed at each idol and recited this verse from the Qur’an, “Truth has come and falsehood will neither start nor will it reappear.” One by one the idols fell down. Thus, the Kabah was cleaned. Next, he forgave the leaders of Quraish and the people of Makkah. The people of Makkah then accepted Islam, including the enemies of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Within a year, almost the whole of Arabia had accepted Islam.

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) performed his first and last pilgrimage during the tenth year after Hijra. 120,000 men and women performed pilgrimage with him. He received the last revelation during this pilgrimage.Two months later, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) fell sick and after several days left his earthly existence on Monday, 12th Rabi Awwal in Madinah. He was 63 years old.

Our beloved Nabi (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) lived a very simple and modest life, even though he could have lived like a king. He (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) and his family used to go without cooked meals for several days at a time, eating dates and dried bread. During the day, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was the busiest man, he performed his duties as the head of state and a family man. He was the most devoted man during the night. He (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) used to spend one to two- thirds of every night in prayer and meditation. Prophet Muhammad’s (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) possessions consisted of mats, jugs and other simple things.

At the end of his mission, Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was blessed with several followers. Thousands prayed with him and listened to his sermon. Hundreds of sahaba (companions) would find time to be with him during the five daily prayers. They used to seek his advice for their everyday problems. Among them were Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq, Hadrat Umar, Hadrat Uthman, Hadrat Ali, Imam Hassan, Imam Hussain and many others, Rady Allahu Anhum.

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) had a beautiful appearance. His sweat was more fragrant than musk and his perspiration shone like pearls. He (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) talked so clearly that someone could count the number of words he spoke. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) never struck anybody with his hand, but he did fight for Islam. He (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) used to forgive his enemies and release prisoners of war.

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) was the last Prophet of Allah. All sincere Muslims try to follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Many Muslim scholars have composed qasidas in praise of Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam). Rasulullah’s (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) favours upon his Ummah are unlimited. Our Nabi (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) said, ” You do not have (complete) Imaan (faith) until I am more beloved to you than your father, children and the rest of mankind.”

Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam) is the connection between Muslims and Allah. We can never get close to Allah unless our hearts are filled with the love of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam).

                            ALLAH THE GLORIFIED AND THE EXALTED
                                                  by: Aibah Khan

'La ilaha illallahu Muhammad-ur-Rasulullah'
'None is worthy of worship except Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah'

This is the first Kalima - Kalimah Tayyibah. Tayyibah means "pure". This Kalima declares the Oneness of Allah.

'Say He is Allah, the One and Only. Allah the Eternal, Absolute. He begetteth not. Nor is He begotten. And there is none like unto Him.' (112:1-4)

Surah Ikhlas from the Holy Qur'an reveals that He (Allah) is One and Only. We can't compare Him with others because 'there is none like unto Him'. This was just one Surah from the Holy Qur'an which was revealed to Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu alaihi wa Sallam from Allah. Allah revealed four books which were the Zaboor, Taurat, Injeel and the Qur'an. Allah also sent Prophets for the guidance of mankind. The well known Prophets are Hadrat Adam Alayhissalam, Hadrat Nooh Alayhissalam, Hadrat Dawood Alayhissalam, Hadrat Yousuf Alayhissalam, Hadrat Sulaiman Alayhissalam, Hadrat Moosa Alayhissalam, Hadrat Esa Alayhissalam and Hadrat Muhammad Sallallahu alaihi wa Sallam. All Prophets obey Allah and don't commit any sin. Angels are also a creation of Allah. Allah created everything. The first man Allah created was Hadrat Adam Alayhissalam. The angels are always busy in worship of Allah. They obey every order that they receive from Allah. The well known angels are Hadrat Jibreel, Hadrat Mikaeel, Hadrat Izra'eel and Hadrat Israfeel (may peace be upon them).

He is the Affectionate, Loving, Kind, Benign, Oft-Returning to mercy, Multiplier of rewards, Author of peace and Granter of security. Though he made great things like the sun and the stars, yet He thinks much more of us humans, than He does of others. He made the others for our benefit. Not even the smallest flower or the tiniest bird is ever out of God's sight. He is the Creator. He is the Almighty. He is closer to us than our main vein. His promises are always fulfilled. Allah is forever.

'Say: Call upon Allah, or call upon Rahman: by whatever name ye call upon Him, (it is well): for to him belong the Most Beautiful Names.' (17:110)

We all praise Allah and solicit His blessings for His kind Messenger Muhammad (may peace be upon him) for the true knowledge of Allah and His attributes have come to us through him. He taught us that Allah is the only One God, Who has ninety-nine attributive names. "Allah" is a proper noun in a consolidated form meaning, "God". No plural can be formed out of it nor any derivation is possible. It connotes the attributes of Perfection and Beauty. Allah is the name of the Divine One, as distinguished from all other attributive names called Asma-ul-Husna, the most excellent names. There are ninety-nine Epithets of His attributes mentioned through the Holy Qur'an.

Sayyidatina Aisha (Allah be pleased with her) mentioned that Ya Rabb (O Lord) is the greatest name of Allah.

The essential difference between a judge and a master is that the judge is found to do justice and must punish the evil-doer while the master can exercise his discretion, and may either punish the evil-doer or forgive him, as in the verse below:

'Say: O' my Servants who have transgressed against their souls! Despair not of the Mercy of Allah: For Allah forgives all sins, for He is Oft- Forgiving, Most Merciful.' (39:53)

Power is another glorious attribute of Allah Almighty. His decrees are immutable and His commands unalterable. It is this which has brought forth all creation at His first call: He uttered the word kun and they came to life and in position.

There is all possible perfection in God. In Him is absolute fullness. The source of all life is God. All wisdom is in God. He is the Wise. All purity is in God. All righteousness is in God.

His name is Allah and we can call on Him by other sacred names also which are attributive or qualitative with great benefits and blessings. Nevertheless, He must be remembered, or called upon only with one of the names by which the last Prophet and Guide, Muhammad Sallallahu alaihi wa Sallam is known to have remembered or called on Him. The reason for this is simple. Allah Almighty is beyond human comprehension and, therefore, to call on Him by names out of one's own imagination may be unbecoming to His Omnipotence.

It has come down to us from the Holy Prophet Sallallahu alaihi wa Sallam that Allah Almighty has ninety-nine auspicious names.

Abu Hurairah (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) as saying: 'There are ninety-nine names of Allah; he who commits them to memory would get into Paradise'.

Remembrance of Allah
Islam has greatly stressed on its followers the need of remembering Allah, as it is the soul of the true life of man both in this world and in the Hereafter.

The Qur'an and Ahadith are full of instructions which insist on the faithful to see that their heart is always adorned with the remembrance of Allah.

Man's heart is full of foul and frivolous thoughts, temptations, vices etc., and the remembrance of Allah is the cure for the diseased condition of our hearts. The more we remember Allah the better will be the condition of our hearts, and above all by continuous remembrance we will be able to create the fear of Allah, which serves as a guiding force in our march on the path of Truth. Remembrance of Allah is an act which brings Divine blessings and also great reward. Allah says:

'Therefore remember Me and I will remember you; and be thankful unto Me and be you not ungrateful towards Me.' (2:152)

'Those who believe and whose hearts find satisfaction in the remembrance of Allah: For without doubt in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find satisfaction.' (13:28)

'And remembrance of Allah is the greatest (thing in life) without doubt.' (29:45)

The above verses clearly ordain the faithful to remember Allah. Among the benefits that accrue from this deed is contentment, blessings, piety and strengthening of faith and abstention from evils and vices. And the best of all is that Allah remembers us, a kindness which can altogether change the trend of life to the best advantage of the believers both here and in the Hereafter.

The Holy Prophet Sallallahu alaihi wa Sallam again and again instructed and advised his companions to keep their hearts always illuminated with the remembrance of Allah. According to him, the heart is the source of good and bad thoughts and deeds and when there is slackness on the part of a believer in the remembrance of Allah, bad ideas and thoughts occur in it and ultimately they result in sins or vices. When the remembrance of Allah is in abundance, bad thoughts and ideas are suppressed and good ones occur which lead to good deeds.

Ibn 'Abbas (Allah be pleased with him) reported the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) as saying: 'Shaitan is holding fast man's heart and when man remembers Allah, he leaves the heart and when man becomes careless in remembrance he begins to create ill feelings'. (Bukhari)

The Messenger of Allah also said that everything has a polish and the polish of the heart is the remembrance of Allah.

In short, the remembrance of Allah is the happiest and also the wisest of pastime. Its blessings can never be counted and the satisfaction it brings cannot be measured. We should always keep ourselves busy in the remembrance of Allah, even while doing our work, business and other work. The act of remembrance will save us from bad thoughts and vices and improve both our spiritual and worldly life.


Allah - Proper name of God in Arabic. This name is mentioned 2697 times in the Holy Qur'an.

The Kaaba, House of Allah
The House of Allah, Ka'ba, is so called because it is cube shaped. Allah has called it His house. Its length, height and width are the same measurement. It is also called 'Baytullah', 'Bayt-ul-Haraam' and 'Ka'batullah'. All Muslims turn towards the Kaaba in their five daily prayers. This direction is called the 'Qiblah'. The Kaaba is in Makkah. Hadrat Adam Alayhissalam originally built it. Later on, in the time of Hadrat Nooh's flood, the Kaaba was destroyed. It was reconstructed by Hadrat Ibraheem Alayhissalam and Hadrat Isma'eel Alayhissalam on a command from Allah. The Kaaba was ready on 25th Zilquad. When Muslims go for Hajj or Umrah, they circle the Kaaba seven times. This is known as 'tawaf'.

Know child that God is only one,
And has no partner or any son.
He has made us and everything,
All beasts, all fowls, all birds that sing.
The sun, the moon, the starry sky,
The land, the sea, the mountains high.
He knows whatever we think or act,
By Him is seen the real fact.
And only He does what He wills,
He makes, He keeps, He kills.
Forever the same, no age, no youth,
He is perfection, He is Truth.
Almighty, All-seeing, Wise,
He hath not form or shape or size.
But self-existing is our Lord,
And is always to be adored.
Our God is Just and loves the right,
The wrong is hateful to His sight.
To all His creatures, He is Kind,
He gave us reason that we might,
Know good from bad, wrong from right.

µTorrent is a small and incredibly popular BitTorrent client.
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Most of the features present in other BitTorrent clients are present in µTorrent, including bandwidth prioritization, scheduling, RSS auto-downloading and Mainline DHT (compatible with BitComet). Additionally, µTorrent supports the Protocol Encryption joint specification (compatible with Azureus 2.4.0.0 and above, BitComet 0.63 and above) and peer exchange.

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Actively Developed and Improved

The developer puts in a lot of time working on features and making things more user-friendly. Releases only come out when they're ready, with no schedule pressures, so the few bugs that appear are quickly addressed and fixed.

 

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