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Kissing Qu'ran
Posted March 10, 2010 by ummhussain in Reminders
Asalam alaikum warahmatullah
Shaykh Muhammed Naasiruddeen al-Albani
Source: "Kayfa yajibu 'alaynaa an Nufassir al-Qur'aan" (pg. 28-34)
Produced by: Al-Ibaanah.com
From the upcoming E-Book "How are we Obligated to Interpret the Qur'aan" of Imaam Al-Albaanee, rahimahullaah, being a translation of the booklet "Kayfa yajibu 'alaynaa an Nufassir al-Qur'aan."
Question: What is the ruling on kissing the Qur’aan?
Answer: According to our beliefs, this act falls into the general meaning of certain ahaadeeth (forbidding innovations), such as the Prophet’s (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) statement: “Beware of newly invented matters for indeed every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is a misguidance.” <1> And in one narration of the hadeeth, it states: “And every misguidance is in the Hellfire.” <2>
Many people hold a certain position with regard to this issue, saying: “What’s wrong with that? It’s only a way of showing our love and respect for this noble Qur’aan.” So we say to them: Yes, that’s true. This only shows one’s love and respect for the noble Qur’aan. However, was this form of respect hidden from the first generation, which consisted of the Companions of Allaah’s Messenger? And likewise was it unknown to those who succeeded the Companions (Taabi’een), as well as their successors (Atbaa’ at-Taabi’een) who came after them? No doubt the answer will be as the scholars amongst the Salaf used to say: “If it were good, they would have preceded us in (doing) it.”
This is one perspective. As for another perspective then we must ask the question: What is the foundation with regard to kissing something – that it is permissible or forbidden?
This requires us to mention the hadeeth reported by the two Shaikhs (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim) in their Saheeh collection, to remind those who wish to remember, and to make it known how far the Muslims are today from their righteous predecessors, their understanding and their methods used to resolve matters that occurred to them.
The hadeeth I’m referring to is the one reported by ‘Abbaas bin Rabee’ah who narrated: “I saw ‘Umar bin Al-Khattaab (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) kissing the (Black) Stone and saying: ‘I know that you are just a stone and that you can’t cause harm or bring benefit. So if it weren’t that I saw the Messenger of Allaah kissing you, I would not have kissed you.’”
What is the meaning of these words from Al-Faarooq: “If it weren’t that I saw the Messenger of Allaah kissing you, I would not have kissed you?!” <3>
So why then did ‘Umar kiss the Black Stone, which as is stated in the authentic hadeeth: “The Black Stone is from Paradise?” <4>
Did he kiss it based on some logical reasoning that came from him, like that made by those who this question is about, who use their logic on this issue, saying: “This is the Speech of Allaah, and we will kiss it?”
Did ‘Umar say: “This stone is a relic from Paradise, which was promised to those who obey Allaah, so I will kiss it – I don’t need any text from Allaah’s Messenger to show me that it is legislated (in the Religion) to kiss it?!” Or did he treat this “trivial” matter, as some people nowadays want to say, with the slogan that we invite to, which we call the Salafee slogan - which is sincerely following only the Messenger and those who abide by his Sunnah until the Day of Judgement? This was the stance of ‘Umar (radyAllaahu ‘anhu), such that he said: “If it weren’t that I saw the Messenger of Allaah kissing you, I would not have kissed you?!”
So the foundation with regard to this type of kissing is that we treat it based on the past Sunnah, not that we pass judgement on matters based on our whims, as we indicated earlier, such that we say (for example): “This is something good, so what’s wrong with it?!”
Recall with me what the (first) reaction of Zayd bin Thaabit (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) was when Abu Bakr and ‘Umar presented him with the task of compiling the Qur’aan in order to protect it from being lost. He (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) told them: “How can you do something that the Messenger of Allaah didn’t do?” <5>
But the Muslims of today do not have this kind of understanding at all.
If it is said to the one who kisses the mus-haf: “How can you do something that Allaah’s Messenger (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) didn’t do?” He will counter you with many strange answers, such as: “My brother, what’s wrong with that?! I’m only showing respect for the Qur’aan!” So tell him: “My brother, these words fall back on you! Are you saying the Messenger of Allaah didn’t used to show respect to the Qur’aan?!” There is no doubt that the Prophet (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) used to respect the Qur’aan, but in spite of this, he wouldn’t kiss it.
Or they may argue: “You forbid us from kissing the Qur’aan, yet look at you, you ride in cars and travel by plane. And these things are innovations!” The refutation of this is based on what you heard previously – that the innovation that is misguidance is only that which occurs with regard to the Religion.
As for those innovations that occur with regard to worldly matters, then as we stated previously, they may at times be permissible and at times be prohibited, and so on. This is something that is well known, and needs no examples.
So a person that rides aboard a plane in order to travel to the Sacred House so that he can make pilgrimage (Hajj), there is no doubt that this is permissible. And a person that rides on board a plane in order to travel to the west to make pilgrimage there, there is no doubt this is a sin, and so on and so forth.
As for maters related to worship, for which if someone is asked about it: “Why do you do it(?)”, his reply is: “To get close to Allaah!”
I say: There is no way to get closer to Allaah except by that which Allaah legislated and prescribed. However, I would like to remind you about something which, in my opinion, is very important for strengthening and supporting this principle “Every innovation is a misguidance” – there being no room for my intellect to consent with it at all.
Some of the Salaf used to say: “No innovation is introduced except that a Sunnah is caused to die.”
I take this fact to heart as if I can feel it with my hand, due to my constant scrutinization of matters to see if the are innovations, and if they contradict what the Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) brought,
When the true people of knowledge and virtue take hold of the Qur’aan in order to recite from it, you do not see them kissing it. Rather, they only act in accordance to what is in it. But as for the common people, who have not set of rules or guidelines to curb their emotions, then they say: “What’s wrong with that?” But yet they don’t act in accordance to what is found in it (from laws and rulings)!
So we say: “No innovation is introduced except that a Sunnah is caused to die.”
There is another innovation similar to this one. We see some people – even the vile sinners amongst them who only have a small portion of Faith left in their hearts – who when they hear the Mu’adhin calling to prayer, they stand up! And when you ask them: “Why are you standing up?” They reply: “Out of respect for Allaah!!” But yet, they don’t even go to the masaajid! They spend their time playing chess and backgammon and so on. And yet, they believe they are showing respect to their Lord by standing up like this. Where did this form of standing come from?? Naturally, it came from a fabricated hadeeth that has no source to it, which is: “When you hear the Adhaan (call to prayer), then stand up.” <6>
There is no source for this hadeeth. Rather, it came by way of a distortion (of an authentic hadeeth) by some weak narrators and liars, who reported “Stand” (qoomoo) instead of “Say” (qooloo), whilst at the same time abridging the authentic hadeeth: “When you hear the Adhaan, then say (qooloo) just as he says. Then send Salaat upon me…” <7>
So look at how the Devil beautifies innovations to people, such that they feel content with themselves that they are believers who respect the rites of Allaah – the proof for this being: when they take the mus-haf, they kiss it, and when they hear the Adhaan, they stand up!!
But does he act upon the Qur’aan? He doesn’t act upon the Qur’aan! So, for example, he may pray, but does he avoid delving into prohibitions? Does he avoid taking interest or giving it? Does he avoid spreading amongst the people the means that will increase them in their disobedience to Allaah? Does he…Does he…, and so on and so forth?? These questions may never end. This is why we stop and suffice with that which Allaah has legislated for us from acts of obedience and worship without adding one single letter to that. This is since the matter is as the Prophet (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: “I have not left behind anything that Allaah commanded you with except that I ordered you to do it.”
So this thing that you do, will it bring you closer to Allaah? If the answer is yes, then bring a text from Allaah’s Messenger (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) concerning that. Their answer will be: “There is no text for that.” So therefore, it is an innovation, and every innovation is a misguidance and every misguidance is in the Hellfire.
No one should find difficulty with this issue saying: “This is a minor issue, but yet in spite of that, it’s a misguidance that will take the one who does it to the Hellfire??”
Imaam Ash-Shaatibee responded to the likes of this question, saying: “Every innovation, no matter how small it may be, is misguidance.”
One should not look at this ruling – in the fact that it’s misguidance – to the innovation itself. Rather, one should look at this ruling to the place in which this innovation has been newly introduced into. What is this place? The place I am referring to is the Legislation of Islaam, which is perfect and complete. So it is not proper for anyone to try to “amend it” by introducing an innovation into it, whether big or small. This is where the “misguidance” of innovations comes from. The misguidance doesn’t come from just him introducing the innovation into Islaam, but rather because of the fact that he is giving (himself) the ability to amend the Legislation (of Islaam), above that of our Lord and above our Prophet (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam).
------------------------------------------------------- ---------- ---------------
Footnotes:
<1> Saheeh At-Targheeb wat-Tarheeb (1/92/34)
<2> Salaat at-Taraaweeh (pg. 75)
<3> Saheeh At-Targheeb wat-Tarheeb (1/94/41)
<4> Saheeh al-Jaami’-us-Sagheer (3174)
<5> Translator’s Note: Refer to Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree (Eng.) (vol. 6, hadeeth no. 201). Zayd bin Thaabit (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) was one of those who used to write down the revelation for the Prophet.
<6> Silsilat-ul-Ahaadeeth ad-Da’eefah (711)
<7> Saheeh Muslim (384)
Shaykh Muhammed Naasiruddeen al-Albani
Source: "Kayfa yajibu 'alaynaa an Nufassir al-Qur'aan" (pg. 28-34)
Produced by: Al-Ibaanah.com
From the upcoming E-Book "How are we Obligated to Interpret the Qur'aan" of Imaam Al-Albaanee, rahimahullaah, being a translation of the booklet "Kayfa yajibu 'alaynaa an Nufassir al-Qur'aan."
Question: What is the ruling on kissing the Qur’aan?
Answer: According to our beliefs, this act falls into the general meaning of certain ahaadeeth (forbidding innovations), such as the Prophet’s (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) statement: “Beware of newly invented matters for indeed every newly invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is a misguidance.” <1> And in one narration of the hadeeth, it states: “And every misguidance is in the Hellfire.” <2>
Many people hold a certain position with regard to this issue, saying: “What’s wrong with that? It’s only a way of showing our love and respect for this noble Qur’aan.” So we say to them: Yes, that’s true. This only shows one’s love and respect for the noble Qur’aan. However, was this form of respect hidden from the first generation, which consisted of the Companions of Allaah’s Messenger? And likewise was it unknown to those who succeeded the Companions (Taabi’een), as well as their successors (Atbaa’ at-Taabi’een) who came after them? No doubt the answer will be as the scholars amongst the Salaf used to say: “If it were good, they would have preceded us in (doing) it.”
This is one perspective. As for another perspective then we must ask the question: What is the foundation with regard to kissing something – that it is permissible or forbidden?
This requires us to mention the hadeeth reported by the two Shaikhs (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim) in their Saheeh collection, to remind those who wish to remember, and to make it known how far the Muslims are today from their righteous predecessors, their understanding and their methods used to resolve matters that occurred to them.
The hadeeth I’m referring to is the one reported by ‘Abbaas bin Rabee’ah who narrated: “I saw ‘Umar bin Al-Khattaab (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) kissing the (Black) Stone and saying: ‘I know that you are just a stone and that you can’t cause harm or bring benefit. So if it weren’t that I saw the Messenger of Allaah kissing you, I would not have kissed you.’”
What is the meaning of these words from Al-Faarooq: “If it weren’t that I saw the Messenger of Allaah kissing you, I would not have kissed you?!” <3>
So why then did ‘Umar kiss the Black Stone, which as is stated in the authentic hadeeth: “The Black Stone is from Paradise?” <4>
Did he kiss it based on some logical reasoning that came from him, like that made by those who this question is about, who use their logic on this issue, saying: “This is the Speech of Allaah, and we will kiss it?”
Did ‘Umar say: “This stone is a relic from Paradise, which was promised to those who obey Allaah, so I will kiss it – I don’t need any text from Allaah’s Messenger to show me that it is legislated (in the Religion) to kiss it?!” Or did he treat this “trivial” matter, as some people nowadays want to say, with the slogan that we invite to, which we call the Salafee slogan - which is sincerely following only the Messenger and those who abide by his Sunnah until the Day of Judgement? This was the stance of ‘Umar (radyAllaahu ‘anhu), such that he said: “If it weren’t that I saw the Messenger of Allaah kissing you, I would not have kissed you?!”
So the foundation with regard to this type of kissing is that we treat it based on the past Sunnah, not that we pass judgement on matters based on our whims, as we indicated earlier, such that we say (for example): “This is something good, so what’s wrong with it?!”
Recall with me what the (first) reaction of Zayd bin Thaabit (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) was when Abu Bakr and ‘Umar presented him with the task of compiling the Qur’aan in order to protect it from being lost. He (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) told them: “How can you do something that the Messenger of Allaah didn’t do?” <5>
But the Muslims of today do not have this kind of understanding at all.
If it is said to the one who kisses the mus-haf: “How can you do something that Allaah’s Messenger (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) didn’t do?” He will counter you with many strange answers, such as: “My brother, what’s wrong with that?! I’m only showing respect for the Qur’aan!” So tell him: “My brother, these words fall back on you! Are you saying the Messenger of Allaah didn’t used to show respect to the Qur’aan?!” There is no doubt that the Prophet (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) used to respect the Qur’aan, but in spite of this, he wouldn’t kiss it.
Or they may argue: “You forbid us from kissing the Qur’aan, yet look at you, you ride in cars and travel by plane. And these things are innovations!” The refutation of this is based on what you heard previously – that the innovation that is misguidance is only that which occurs with regard to the Religion.
As for those innovations that occur with regard to worldly matters, then as we stated previously, they may at times be permissible and at times be prohibited, and so on. This is something that is well known, and needs no examples.
So a person that rides aboard a plane in order to travel to the Sacred House so that he can make pilgrimage (Hajj), there is no doubt that this is permissible. And a person that rides on board a plane in order to travel to the west to make pilgrimage there, there is no doubt this is a sin, and so on and so forth.
As for maters related to worship, for which if someone is asked about it: “Why do you do it(?)”, his reply is: “To get close to Allaah!”
I say: There is no way to get closer to Allaah except by that which Allaah legislated and prescribed. However, I would like to remind you about something which, in my opinion, is very important for strengthening and supporting this principle “Every innovation is a misguidance” – there being no room for my intellect to consent with it at all.
Some of the Salaf used to say: “No innovation is introduced except that a Sunnah is caused to die.”
I take this fact to heart as if I can feel it with my hand, due to my constant scrutinization of matters to see if the are innovations, and if they contradict what the Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) brought,
When the true people of knowledge and virtue take hold of the Qur’aan in order to recite from it, you do not see them kissing it. Rather, they only act in accordance to what is in it. But as for the common people, who have not set of rules or guidelines to curb their emotions, then they say: “What’s wrong with that?” But yet they don’t act in accordance to what is found in it (from laws and rulings)!
So we say: “No innovation is introduced except that a Sunnah is caused to die.”
There is another innovation similar to this one. We see some people – even the vile sinners amongst them who only have a small portion of Faith left in their hearts – who when they hear the Mu’adhin calling to prayer, they stand up! And when you ask them: “Why are you standing up?” They reply: “Out of respect for Allaah!!” But yet, they don’t even go to the masaajid! They spend their time playing chess and backgammon and so on. And yet, they believe they are showing respect to their Lord by standing up like this. Where did this form of standing come from?? Naturally, it came from a fabricated hadeeth that has no source to it, which is: “When you hear the Adhaan (call to prayer), then stand up.” <6>
There is no source for this hadeeth. Rather, it came by way of a distortion (of an authentic hadeeth) by some weak narrators and liars, who reported “Stand” (qoomoo) instead of “Say” (qooloo), whilst at the same time abridging the authentic hadeeth: “When you hear the Adhaan, then say (qooloo) just as he says. Then send Salaat upon me…” <7>
So look at how the Devil beautifies innovations to people, such that they feel content with themselves that they are believers who respect the rites of Allaah – the proof for this being: when they take the mus-haf, they kiss it, and when they hear the Adhaan, they stand up!!
But does he act upon the Qur’aan? He doesn’t act upon the Qur’aan! So, for example, he may pray, but does he avoid delving into prohibitions? Does he avoid taking interest or giving it? Does he avoid spreading amongst the people the means that will increase them in their disobedience to Allaah? Does he…Does he…, and so on and so forth?? These questions may never end. This is why we stop and suffice with that which Allaah has legislated for us from acts of obedience and worship without adding one single letter to that. This is since the matter is as the Prophet (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: “I have not left behind anything that Allaah commanded you with except that I ordered you to do it.”
So this thing that you do, will it bring you closer to Allaah? If the answer is yes, then bring a text from Allaah’s Messenger (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) concerning that. Their answer will be: “There is no text for that.” So therefore, it is an innovation, and every innovation is a misguidance and every misguidance is in the Hellfire.
No one should find difficulty with this issue saying: “This is a minor issue, but yet in spite of that, it’s a misguidance that will take the one who does it to the Hellfire??”
Imaam Ash-Shaatibee responded to the likes of this question, saying: “Every innovation, no matter how small it may be, is misguidance.”
One should not look at this ruling – in the fact that it’s misguidance – to the innovation itself. Rather, one should look at this ruling to the place in which this innovation has been newly introduced into. What is this place? The place I am referring to is the Legislation of Islaam, which is perfect and complete. So it is not proper for anyone to try to “amend it” by introducing an innovation into it, whether big or small. This is where the “misguidance” of innovations comes from. The misguidance doesn’t come from just him introducing the innovation into Islaam, but rather because of the fact that he is giving (himself) the ability to amend the Legislation (of Islaam), above that of our Lord and above our Prophet (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam).
------------------------------------------------------- ---------- ---------------
Footnotes:
<1> Saheeh At-Targheeb wat-Tarheeb (1/92/34)
<2> Salaat at-Taraaweeh (pg. 75)
<3> Saheeh At-Targheeb wat-Tarheeb (1/94/41)
<4> Saheeh al-Jaami’-us-Sagheer (3174)
<5> Translator’s Note: Refer to Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree (Eng.) (vol. 6, hadeeth no. 201). Zayd bin Thaabit (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) was one of those who used to write down the revelation for the Prophet.
<6> Silsilat-ul-Ahaadeeth ad-Da’eefah (711)
<7> Saheeh Muslim (384)
Hereafter is so near and yet knowingly many of ignore i
Posted March 8, 2010 by rahindr
Assalamualaikum.
This article is from one of my friend and I share all of you sister. its just a reminder.
Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem.
This piece of saying was a great reminder for myself and so I thought of sharing with all here iinshaaAllaah.
Many of us who have been guided by Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala Alhamdulillah, at times become lazy by the instigation of our own nafs and also shaytan...and thus at times waste time and lost the focus of the hereafter, yet it is so important to us to always keep in our minds how close the hereafter is and so very soon we have to depart to meet our Lord, may Allaah have mercy on all of us and forgive us,ameen.
Khâlid b. ‘Umayr Al-’Adawî reports, ‘Utbah b. Ghazwân – Allâh be pleased with him – once gave us a sermon. He praised Allâh, then said:
The life of this world has announced its departure and is quickly turning away, and nothing remains of it save the likes of the last drop of water in a vessel as its possessor tries to catch it.
You are moving on to an abode that has no end, so move on with the best <deeds> that you have. For it has been said to us that a rock can be dropped from the edge of Hell and fall for seventy years without reaching the bottom.
Yet, by Allâh, it will be filled. Do you not then wonder? And it has been said to us that a single entrance to Paradise is as wide as a journey of forty years, yet there will come a day when it will be crowded.
I have seen myself as the seventh of seven <followers of> Allâh’s Messenger – Allâh’s peace and blessings be upon him; we had no food save the leaves of trees which put sores round our mouths. I once got a cloak which I tore in half to share with Sa’d b. Mâlik: I used half as my waist-wrap and he used the other. And yet today, there is not one of us except he has become a governor over some city – and I seek refuge with Allâh that I consider myself great and important when I am small in front of Allâh. Verily there was never prophet-hood except that it gradually changed until it ended up being a kingship, and verily you will see what the governors after us are like.
Sahîh Muslim no. 7624
This article is from one of my friend and I share all of you sister. its just a reminder.
Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem.
This piece of saying was a great reminder for myself and so I thought of sharing with all here iinshaaAllaah.
Many of us who have been guided by Allaah subhaanahu wa ta'aala Alhamdulillah, at times become lazy by the instigation of our own nafs and also shaytan...and thus at times waste time and lost the focus of the hereafter, yet it is so important to us to always keep in our minds how close the hereafter is and so very soon we have to depart to meet our Lord, may Allaah have mercy on all of us and forgive us,ameen.
Khâlid b. ‘Umayr Al-’Adawî reports, ‘Utbah b. Ghazwân – Allâh be pleased with him – once gave us a sermon. He praised Allâh, then said:
The life of this world has announced its departure and is quickly turning away, and nothing remains of it save the likes of the last drop of water in a vessel as its possessor tries to catch it.
You are moving on to an abode that has no end, so move on with the best <deeds> that you have. For it has been said to us that a rock can be dropped from the edge of Hell and fall for seventy years without reaching the bottom.
Yet, by Allâh, it will be filled. Do you not then wonder? And it has been said to us that a single entrance to Paradise is as wide as a journey of forty years, yet there will come a day when it will be crowded.
I have seen myself as the seventh of seven <followers of> Allâh’s Messenger – Allâh’s peace and blessings be upon him; we had no food save the leaves of trees which put sores round our mouths. I once got a cloak which I tore in half to share with Sa’d b. Mâlik: I used half as my waist-wrap and he used the other. And yet today, there is not one of us except he has become a governor over some city – and I seek refuge with Allâh that I consider myself great and important when I am small in front of Allâh. Verily there was never prophet-hood except that it gradually changed until it ended up being a kingship, and verily you will see what the governors after us are like.
Sahîh Muslim no. 7624
A Meeting With Allah...
Posted March 7, 2010 by Binth Mohammed Anwar
Excellent one ! Must Watch !!
Masha’Allah this was a pretty moving video on the People of Paradise meeting with Allah. The text mentioned in the video is from Ibn al Qayyim’s Haadi al-Arwaah ilaa Bilaad il-Afraah. The text is slightly different than in the book but majority of it is the same.
Umm Salaamah ... Sisters please listen ... absolutely b
Posted March 7, 2010 by Aisha Luna
In the name of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful
The Seven Under the Shade of ALLAH SUBHANA WA TA'ALAA
Posted March 7, 2010 by Aisha Luna
Bismilahir Rahmanir Rahim
The Prophet salallahu alaihi wasallam said:
There are seven whom Allaah will shade in His Shade on the Day when there is no shade except His Shade:
a just ruler;
a youth who grew up in the worship of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic;
a man whose heart is attached to the mosques;
two who love each other for Allaah's sake, meeting for that and parting upon that;
a man who is called by a woman of beauty and position [for illegal intercourse], but be says: 'I fear Allaah',
a man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity;
and a man who remembered Allaah in private and so his eyes shed tears.' Narrated by Abu Hurairah & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (english trans.) vol.1, p.356, no.629 & Saheeh Muslim (english trans.) vol.2, p.493, no.2248
In this beautiful Hadeeth, the Prophet salallah alaihe wasallam spoke about small acts of worship which result in such a huge reward: shade on the Day when there will be no shade except His Shade [1].
This may not seem like much at first but then reflect upon the following Hadeeth:
'On the Day of Resurrection, the sun would draw so close to the people that there would be left a distance of only one mile. The people will be submerged in perspiration according to their deeds, some up to their ankles, some up to their knees, some up to the waist and some would have the bridle of perspiration and, while saying this, the Messenger of Allaah put his hand towards his mouth.' Narrated by al Miqdaad ibn Aswad & collected in Saheeh Muslim (eng. trans) vol.4, p.1487-8, no. 6852}.
And in another Hadeeth, some will be submerged in sweat 'seventy arm-lengths in the earth.' Narrated by Abu Hurairah and collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol.8, p.353, no.539) and Muslim (eng. trans.) vol.4, p.l487, no.6851
So who would want more then, on this Day, than to be under the Shade and protection of Allaah Azza wa Jal
Let us examine now the characteristics and virtues of these seven categories of people who will be worthy of such an exalted position on the Day of Gathering.
1. 'A Just Ruler...'
The concept of Justice in Islaam is very important and it is something which the Muslim - Ruler and the ruled - must apply in all matters without exception. Justice means to give each the right he deserves: Muslim or non-Muslim, relative or stranger, friend or enemy. Allaah says: '...And do not let hatred cause you to act unjustly, that is nearer to piety [Soorah al-Maa'idah (5):8].
Unfortunately, even if we admit this in theory, we quickly forget it in practice. So we find that when we speak about our friends and loved ones, we praise them beyond reason and when we speak about those whom we hold difference with, we can find no good in them and we just capitalise on their bad points. This is far removed from the justice which Allaah loves and gives great reward for, as mentioned in the following Hadeeth: 'The doers of justice will be on thrones of light at Allaah's Right Hand - and both of Allaah's Hands are Right Hands" - those who were just in their Ruling, with their families and in all that over which they were given authority [2].
The Prophet assigning to Abdullah ibn Mas'ud the open spaces in Medina between the dwellings and palm gardens of the Ansar, and when the Banu Abd ibn Zuhrah said, "Remove from us the son of Umm Abd (Ibn Mas'ud)," replying, "Why then did Allah send me. Allah does not bless a people among whom a weak man is not given his right." Baghawi transmitted it in Sharh as-Sunnah. Sunan at-Tirmidhi no.3003
The concept of justice is most important for the Ruler, since he is in charge of his people and the primary disposer of justice in the land. For this reason, the Ruler is given special mention as one of the seven who will be honoured with Allaah's Shade.
2 'A youth who grew up in the worship of Allaah...'
The great scholar, Ayyoob as-Sakhtiyaanee (d.131H) said, 'From the success of a youth is that Allaah guides him to a scholar of the Sunnah.' Hasan - Reported in Sharh Usoolis-Sunnah of al-Laalikaa'ee (no.30).
Indeed, it is a great blessing from Allaah for a youth h be guided towards worship and be befriended by the righteous, since it is in youth that a person is most vulnerable to the temptations of life and liable to drift away from the Islaamic Path. This becomes apparent when we look at society around us and we see that most of the worldly distractions, such as music, games, clubs, fashion etc. are all specifically targeted at the young. 'You're only young once!' they are told, which is why many Muslims nowadays waste their youth thinking that they will pray, wear hijaab and go on Hajj, etc. when they are old, as if they have a guarantee of longevity from Allaah! How well we would do to heed the Prophet's advice when he said: 'Take benefit of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before you are preoccupied and your life before your death.' Saheeh - Narrated by Ibn Abbaas & collected in al-Haakim & others. Authenticated by Shaykh 'Alee ibn 'Abdul Hameed in Forty Hadeeth of the Call and the Caller.
3. 'A man whose heart is attached to the mosques...'
There is great encouragement in the Sunnah for men to pray in the mosques and the reward associated with it is tremendous [3]. Not only does it make the person eligible for Allaah's Shade on the day of Judgement, but, 'he does not take a step [towards the mosque except that because of it, he is raised by one rank and one sin is removed from him. Then when he prays, the Angels do not cease supplicating for him [for] as long as he remains at his place of Prayer [sayings]: O Allaah send blessings upon him, O Allaah have mercy upon him...' Narrated by Abu Hurairah & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol. 1 p.352 no.620).
It must be emphasised here however, that all the Hadeeth encouraging the men to be attached to the mosques are not intended to lead one to the conclusion that Islaam is a Religion which should be confined to the mosques, as many people imagine. Nonetheless, the mosque should be at the heart of the Muslim community, and the role of those in authority of the mosques is vital here. They are the ones mainly responsible for making the mosque a welcome refuge for the Muslims, rather than an arena for politics and power struggles as many seem to have become these days. And we seek Allaah's refuge from this!
4. 'Two who love each other for Allaah's sake, meeting for that and parting upon that....'
Having mutual love for the sake of Allaah is one of the great doors leading to the good of the Hereafter and a cause of tasting the sweetness of Eemaan in this world. Loving one another for Allaah's sake means that the Muslim does not love another except for the correctness of his Deen. So it does not matter what the person looks like, what he wears, how rich or poor he is, where he comes from, or what the colour of his skin is - perhaps you dislike everything about him, but you love him for his Eemaan: this is loving for Allaah's sake.
'Allaah, the Mighty and Magnificent says: 'Those who have mutual love for the sake of My Glory will have pillars of light and will be envied the Prophets and martyrs.' Saheeh - Collected in Sunan at-Tirmidhee & Musnad Ahmad (5/336-7).
SubhanAllaah! Imagine being envied by Allaah's chosen Messengers and those who were slain in His Path! Such is the reward of those who love one another for Allaah's sake.
5. 'A man who is called by a woman of beauty and position but he says: 'I fear Allaah...'
This world is full of temptations which lead to burning in the Fire and amongst them is that which comes from women. Many a man has led his soul into destruction on account of the lure of a woman which is why the Prophet warned his Ummah specifically about this. He said, 'The world is sweet and green and verily Allaah is going to install you as successors upon it in order to see how you act. So avoid the allurement of women: verily the first trial for the Children of Israa'eel was caused by women.' Narrated by Aboo Sa'eed al-Khudree & collected in Saheeh Muslim (eng. trans.) vol.4, p.1432, no.6606
The most important provision which we need to protect ourselves from this and all other temptations in life is the fear (khawf) of Allaah. This fact is alluded to in the following Qur'aanic Aayah: 'And as for him who feared standing before his Lord and restrained himself from impure evil desires, verily Paradise will be his abode.' [Soorah an- Naazi'aat (79):40 1].
6. 'A man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity...'
This describes the type of person who goes to great lengths to protect himself from ar-Riyaa. Ar-Riyaa means to do deeds in order to earn the praise and recognition of people. This sin destroys all the benefits that lie in righteous deeds and brings on a serious punishment for the one who commits it. It is particularly dangerous because it is in man's nature to desire and enjoy the praise of others. Thus, great care has to be token to ensure that one's intentions begin and remain pure whenever good actions (such as charity) are being done. Not like what we see today where we have mosque notice boards announcing who gave what to whom, why and when! Allaah warns: 'O you who believe! Do not render vain your charity by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men and he does not believe in Allaah nor in the Last Day.' [al-Baqarah (2):264]. May Allaah preserve us from this.
7. '...A man who remembered Allaah in private and so his eyes shed tears.'
Our noble Prophet informed us: 'If you knew what l knew, you would laugh little and weep much.' Narrated by Aboo Hurairah and Anas & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol.8, p.326-327, nos.492 and 493
Crying is not a sissy' thing to do. The Prophet, who was the best of all creation, would weep as would all of his Companions. Tears are a genuine expression of fear of Allaah's Punishment and of our sincere love and awe of Him. But how often do we remember Allaah in seclusion and are then moved to tears? How much do we laugh and how little do we weep? The Prophet said, 'There is nothing more beloved to Allaah than two drops and two marks: A tear shed due to fear of Allaah, and a drop of blood spilled in the path of Allaah. And as for the two marks, then a mark caused in the path of Allaah, and a mark caused by fulfilling one of the duties made obligatory by Allaah.. Hasan - collected by at-Tirmidhee and al-Mishkaat (3837)
Alhamdulillaah, through these seven types of people mentioned in the Hadeeth, we have been given clear signposts of the way to attain Allaah's pleasure and satisfaction. So dear brothers and sisters in Eemaan, devote yourself to being one amongst those seven, for indeed fortunate will be those who are granted Allaah's Shade on the Day when there will be no shade but His.
The Prophet salallahu alaihi wasallam said:
There are seven whom Allaah will shade in His Shade on the Day when there is no shade except His Shade:
a just ruler;
a youth who grew up in the worship of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic;
a man whose heart is attached to the mosques;
two who love each other for Allaah's sake, meeting for that and parting upon that;
a man who is called by a woman of beauty and position [for illegal intercourse], but be says: 'I fear Allaah',
a man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity;
and a man who remembered Allaah in private and so his eyes shed tears.' Narrated by Abu Hurairah & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (english trans.) vol.1, p.356, no.629 & Saheeh Muslim (english trans.) vol.2, p.493, no.2248
In this beautiful Hadeeth, the Prophet salallah alaihe wasallam spoke about small acts of worship which result in such a huge reward: shade on the Day when there will be no shade except His Shade [1].
This may not seem like much at first but then reflect upon the following Hadeeth:
'On the Day of Resurrection, the sun would draw so close to the people that there would be left a distance of only one mile. The people will be submerged in perspiration according to their deeds, some up to their ankles, some up to their knees, some up to the waist and some would have the bridle of perspiration and, while saying this, the Messenger of Allaah put his hand towards his mouth.' Narrated by al Miqdaad ibn Aswad & collected in Saheeh Muslim (eng. trans) vol.4, p.1487-8, no. 6852}.
And in another Hadeeth, some will be submerged in sweat 'seventy arm-lengths in the earth.' Narrated by Abu Hurairah and collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol.8, p.353, no.539) and Muslim (eng. trans.) vol.4, p.l487, no.6851
So who would want more then, on this Day, than to be under the Shade and protection of Allaah Azza wa Jal
Let us examine now the characteristics and virtues of these seven categories of people who will be worthy of such an exalted position on the Day of Gathering.
1. 'A Just Ruler...'
The concept of Justice in Islaam is very important and it is something which the Muslim - Ruler and the ruled - must apply in all matters without exception. Justice means to give each the right he deserves: Muslim or non-Muslim, relative or stranger, friend or enemy. Allaah says: '...And do not let hatred cause you to act unjustly, that is nearer to piety [Soorah al-Maa'idah (5):8].
Unfortunately, even if we admit this in theory, we quickly forget it in practice. So we find that when we speak about our friends and loved ones, we praise them beyond reason and when we speak about those whom we hold difference with, we can find no good in them and we just capitalise on their bad points. This is far removed from the justice which Allaah loves and gives great reward for, as mentioned in the following Hadeeth: 'The doers of justice will be on thrones of light at Allaah's Right Hand - and both of Allaah's Hands are Right Hands" - those who were just in their Ruling, with their families and in all that over which they were given authority [2].
The Prophet assigning to Abdullah ibn Mas'ud the open spaces in Medina between the dwellings and palm gardens of the Ansar, and when the Banu Abd ibn Zuhrah said, "Remove from us the son of Umm Abd (Ibn Mas'ud)," replying, "Why then did Allah send me. Allah does not bless a people among whom a weak man is not given his right." Baghawi transmitted it in Sharh as-Sunnah. Sunan at-Tirmidhi no.3003
The concept of justice is most important for the Ruler, since he is in charge of his people and the primary disposer of justice in the land. For this reason, the Ruler is given special mention as one of the seven who will be honoured with Allaah's Shade.
2 'A youth who grew up in the worship of Allaah...'
The great scholar, Ayyoob as-Sakhtiyaanee (d.131H) said, 'From the success of a youth is that Allaah guides him to a scholar of the Sunnah.' Hasan - Reported in Sharh Usoolis-Sunnah of al-Laalikaa'ee (no.30).
Indeed, it is a great blessing from Allaah for a youth h be guided towards worship and be befriended by the righteous, since it is in youth that a person is most vulnerable to the temptations of life and liable to drift away from the Islaamic Path. This becomes apparent when we look at society around us and we see that most of the worldly distractions, such as music, games, clubs, fashion etc. are all specifically targeted at the young. 'You're only young once!' they are told, which is why many Muslims nowadays waste their youth thinking that they will pray, wear hijaab and go on Hajj, etc. when they are old, as if they have a guarantee of longevity from Allaah! How well we would do to heed the Prophet's advice when he said: 'Take benefit of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before you are preoccupied and your life before your death.' Saheeh - Narrated by Ibn Abbaas & collected in al-Haakim & others. Authenticated by Shaykh 'Alee ibn 'Abdul Hameed in Forty Hadeeth of the Call and the Caller.
3. 'A man whose heart is attached to the mosques...'
There is great encouragement in the Sunnah for men to pray in the mosques and the reward associated with it is tremendous [3]. Not only does it make the person eligible for Allaah's Shade on the day of Judgement, but, 'he does not take a step [towards the mosque except that because of it, he is raised by one rank and one sin is removed from him. Then when he prays, the Angels do not cease supplicating for him [for] as long as he remains at his place of Prayer [sayings]: O Allaah send blessings upon him, O Allaah have mercy upon him...' Narrated by Abu Hurairah & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol. 1 p.352 no.620).
It must be emphasised here however, that all the Hadeeth encouraging the men to be attached to the mosques are not intended to lead one to the conclusion that Islaam is a Religion which should be confined to the mosques, as many people imagine. Nonetheless, the mosque should be at the heart of the Muslim community, and the role of those in authority of the mosques is vital here. They are the ones mainly responsible for making the mosque a welcome refuge for the Muslims, rather than an arena for politics and power struggles as many seem to have become these days. And we seek Allaah's refuge from this!
4. 'Two who love each other for Allaah's sake, meeting for that and parting upon that....'
Having mutual love for the sake of Allaah is one of the great doors leading to the good of the Hereafter and a cause of tasting the sweetness of Eemaan in this world. Loving one another for Allaah's sake means that the Muslim does not love another except for the correctness of his Deen. So it does not matter what the person looks like, what he wears, how rich or poor he is, where he comes from, or what the colour of his skin is - perhaps you dislike everything about him, but you love him for his Eemaan: this is loving for Allaah's sake.
'Allaah, the Mighty and Magnificent says: 'Those who have mutual love for the sake of My Glory will have pillars of light and will be envied the Prophets and martyrs.' Saheeh - Collected in Sunan at-Tirmidhee & Musnad Ahmad (5/336-7).
SubhanAllaah! Imagine being envied by Allaah's chosen Messengers and those who were slain in His Path! Such is the reward of those who love one another for Allaah's sake.
5. 'A man who is called by a woman of beauty and position but he says: 'I fear Allaah...'
This world is full of temptations which lead to burning in the Fire and amongst them is that which comes from women. Many a man has led his soul into destruction on account of the lure of a woman which is why the Prophet warned his Ummah specifically about this. He said, 'The world is sweet and green and verily Allaah is going to install you as successors upon it in order to see how you act. So avoid the allurement of women: verily the first trial for the Children of Israa'eel was caused by women.' Narrated by Aboo Sa'eed al-Khudree & collected in Saheeh Muslim (eng. trans.) vol.4, p.1432, no.6606
The most important provision which we need to protect ourselves from this and all other temptations in life is the fear (khawf) of Allaah. This fact is alluded to in the following Qur'aanic Aayah: 'And as for him who feared standing before his Lord and restrained himself from impure evil desires, verily Paradise will be his abode.' [Soorah an- Naazi'aat (79):40 1].
6. 'A man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity...'
This describes the type of person who goes to great lengths to protect himself from ar-Riyaa. Ar-Riyaa means to do deeds in order to earn the praise and recognition of people. This sin destroys all the benefits that lie in righteous deeds and brings on a serious punishment for the one who commits it. It is particularly dangerous because it is in man's nature to desire and enjoy the praise of others. Thus, great care has to be token to ensure that one's intentions begin and remain pure whenever good actions (such as charity) are being done. Not like what we see today where we have mosque notice boards announcing who gave what to whom, why and when! Allaah warns: 'O you who believe! Do not render vain your charity by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men and he does not believe in Allaah nor in the Last Day.' [al-Baqarah (2):264]. May Allaah preserve us from this.
7. '...A man who remembered Allaah in private and so his eyes shed tears.'
Our noble Prophet informed us: 'If you knew what l knew, you would laugh little and weep much.' Narrated by Aboo Hurairah and Anas & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol.8, p.326-327, nos.492 and 493
Crying is not a sissy' thing to do. The Prophet, who was the best of all creation, would weep as would all of his Companions. Tears are a genuine expression of fear of Allaah's Punishment and of our sincere love and awe of Him. But how often do we remember Allaah in seclusion and are then moved to tears? How much do we laugh and how little do we weep? The Prophet said, 'There is nothing more beloved to Allaah than two drops and two marks: A tear shed due to fear of Allaah, and a drop of blood spilled in the path of Allaah. And as for the two marks, then a mark caused in the path of Allaah, and a mark caused by fulfilling one of the duties made obligatory by Allaah.. Hasan - collected by at-Tirmidhee and al-Mishkaat (3837)
Alhamdulillaah, through these seven types of people mentioned in the Hadeeth, we have been given clear signposts of the way to attain Allaah's pleasure and satisfaction. So dear brothers and sisters in Eemaan, devote yourself to being one amongst those seven, for indeed fortunate will be those who are granted Allaah's Shade on the Day when there will be no shade but His.
