The History Of Al-Khawarij

 

The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, warned his followers of a group of people who would arise after his death.  The Prophet mentioned their arrival and characteristics no less than 10 times. Among the characteristics he mentioned were: They would worship so much that “you shall consider your worship and your prayer and your recitation of the Qur’an to be nothing compared to theirs.” Meaning, their outward actions, like praying and reciting the Qur’an, would be on overdrive. And yet, “They shall recite the Qur’an but it will not leave their throats.” Meaning that their understanding of the Qur’an will not go any farther than their recitation, and they will not have religious knowledge or insight.

Rumi and the Divine Journey of Love

 

Love has been an eternal source of inspiration for humanity, captivating poets and philosophers throughout the ages. One of the most renowned voices on the subject is the 13th-century Persian poet, Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī, commonly known as Rumi. Rumi's profound and evocative poetry has touched the hearts of people across cultures and generations, resonating with the timeless essence of love. In this blog post, we will delve into Rumi's profound wisdom and explore his insights into the transformative power of love.

Love as a Spiritual Journey:
Rumi believed that love is not merely an emotion shared between two individuals but a spiritual journey that leads us closer to the divine. He often used metaphors and imagery to convey the idea that love is a transformative force, capable of awakening the soul. According to Rumi, love serves as a path to connect with the divine and discover our true selves.

The Beloved as a Mirror:
In Rumi's poetry, the beloved is often portrayed as a mirror that reflects our own inner beauty and flaws. Through this metaphor, Rumi invites us to look beyond superficialities and embrace a deeper understanding of ourselves. He encourages us to recognize that the love we seek in others is ultimately a reflection of the love within us.

The Union of Lover and Beloved:
Rumi's poetry frequently explores the concept of the union between the lover and the beloved. He emphasizes that this union is not limited to human relationships but extends to a mystical union with the divine. Rumi believed that love dissolves the boundaries that separate us, allowing us to merge with the essence of the beloved and experience a sense of oneness.

Love as a Healing Balm:
Rumi saw love as a healing balm that has the power to soothe the wounds of the soul. His poetry often speaks of the transformative nature of love, capable of turning pain into joy and darkness into light. Rumi encourages us to embrace love as a means of healing and finding solace in times of despair.

Love's Endless Depths:
Rumi's poetry conveys the boundless nature of love, transcending societal norms and limitations. He believed that love knows no boundaries and should not be confined by fear or judgment. Rumi urges us to dive deeper into the depths of love, shedding our inhibitions and embracing its vast expanse.

Conclusion:

Rumi's poetry continues to resonate with readers worldwide due to its profound insights into the nature of love. His words inspire us to embark on a spiritual journey where love becomes a transformative force, connecting us with the divine and our true selves. Rumi teaches us that love is not simply an emotion but a path to understanding, healing, and transcendence. As we explore Rumi's poetry, we are invited to open our hearts and experience the boundless depths of love that reside within us and the world around us.

Honour Killing: Mother burned daughter alive in honour killing

Parveen Bibi threw kerosene on her daughter and set her alight in this story of shame and honor.

Islamic Marital contract: The historical background and benefits of drafting your contract

 

In many Muslim communities, the idea of stipulations set by the wife is deemed unacceptable and un-Islamic. However, this is far from true! In this video, I discuss the historical background of women drafting their marital contracts. I also explain the importance of doing so, both in Muslim majority countries, but more importantly in Muslim minority countries! 

 

 

Guiding Muslim Youth by Prophetic Example | Interview with Dr. Tahir Wyatt

 

Dr. Tahir Wyatt describes the remarkable incident this past Ramadan when a massive group of youth showed up at the Philadelphia Masjid. Where did they come from? Who told them to come? He reflects on young people's fears and hopes and the conditions that make them prone to making devastating decisions. Learn how this masjid set a prophetic tone and precedent to not just welcome them, but include them and nurture their faith.

Guarding the Tongue by Shaykh Hamza Yusuf

 

The power of words is a central insight in Islam. Four words spoken sincerely suffice to mark that someone is a believer. Our tongues are a great blessing from our Lord, but their power can set us on the path of good or of harm. In this khutbah, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf, president of Zaytuna College, provides important and timeless advice for how to guard ourselves from the pitfalls of excessive and malevolent speech.

Caring for the Environment in Islam

 

Here are a few Hadith that emphasize the importance of caring for the environment:

"The world is beautiful and verdant, and verily God, be He exalted, has made you His stewards in it, and He sees how you acquit yourselves." (Sahih Muslim)
This Hadith highlights the concept of humans being entrusted as stewards of the Earth. It reminds us that Allah is aware of our actions and how we fulfill our responsibilities in preserving the beauty and sustainability of the environment.

"Whoever plants a tree and diligently looks after it until it matures and bears fruit is rewarded. If a Muslim plants a tree or sows a field and humans and animals benefit from it, it is regarded as an act of charity." (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
This Hadith emphasizes the significance of planting trees and nurturing them until they bear fruit. It highlights the rewards for such actions, and it extends the concept of charity to include benefiting both humans and animals through the cultivation of plants and the provision of natural resources.

"If the Hour (the Day of Resurrection) is about to be established and one of you has a palm shoot in his hand, which he can cultivate before the Hour is established, let him cultivate it." (Musnad Ahmad)
This Hadith encourages individuals to engage in acts of cultivation and environmental care, even if they believe the Day of Judgment is imminent. It emphasizes the importance of making positive contributions to the environment, regardless of the perceived proximity of the end times.

"There is none amongst the believers who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, but it is regarded as having given a charitable gift [for which there is great reward]." (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
This Hadith highlights the profound value of planting and nurturing vegetation. It signifies that any act of providing sustenance and benefiting living beings, whether humans or animals, from the produce of planted trees or cultivated crops, is considered a charitable act deserving of great reward.

These Hadith serve as reminders of the Islamic teachings that encourage environmental stewardship, conservation, and caring for the natural world. They emphasize the responsibility of Muslims to actively engage in actions that contribute to the well-being of the environment and its inhabitants, as well as the rewards and blessings associated with such endeavors.

5 Things You Should Do Everyday - Omar Suleiman

 

 Important Practical Tips To Change Your Life In This Changing And Challenging World

Wasted Potential | Khutbah by Dr. Omar Suleiman

Much of the rhetoric of the Quran and Sunnah speak to the idea of wasted potential and unused blessings so that we may live up to our own.

The Perils of Arrogance: Arrogance is Haram in Islam

 

In Islam, humility and modesty are highly regarded virtues, while arrogance is condemned as a destructive characteristic. Arrogance, known as "kibr" in Arabic, is considered a major sin that distances individuals from the path of righteousness. This blog post delves into the concept of arrogance in Islam, exploring why it is deemed haram (forbidden) and the detrimental effects it can have on individuals and society.

Understanding Arrogance:
Arrogance can be defined as an inflated sense of self-importance, accompanied by a disdainful attitude towards others. It involves an excessive focus on one's own achievements, abilities, and status, leading to a disregard for the worth and contributions of others. Arrogance breeds an attitude of superiority, blinding individuals to their own flaws and inhibiting personal growth.

The Islamic View:
In the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), arrogance is repeatedly condemned as a sin that hinders spiritual growth and damages interpersonal relationships. Islam places a strong emphasis on humility before God and recognizing the inherent worth of all individuals. Arrogance is seen as a form of rebellion against God's sovereignty, as it implies considering oneself superior to the rest of creation.

The Consequences of Arrogance:
Arrogance carries severe consequences for individuals, both in this life and in the Hereafter. From an Islamic perspective, it hampers spiritual development and distances one from God's mercy and guidance. Arrogant individuals tend to disregard the rights and feelings of others, leading to strained relationships and social divisions. Moreover, arrogance fosters a sense of entitlement and injustice, fueling conflict and undermining harmony within communities.

Examples from Islamic Teachings:
Islamic teachings provide numerous examples highlighting the dangers of arrogance. The story of Satan (Shaitan) serves as a cautionary tale, where his refusal to bow before Adam out of arrogance led to his expulsion from paradise. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) consistently exemplified humility, urging his followers to avoid arrogance and embrace humility as a path to righteousness.

Cultivating Humility:
Islam encourages the cultivation of humility as a countermeasure to arrogance. Humility entails recognizing one's strengths and weaknesses, acknowledging that all blessings come from God, and treating others with kindness and respect. Islamic practices such as prayer, fasting, and acts of charity serve as reminders of our dependence on God and our duty to serve others, fostering humility in believers.

Seeking Refuge from Arrogance:
Muslims are encouraged to seek refuge from arrogance through self-reflection, seeking forgiveness, and seeking God's guidance. They are reminded to be grateful for their blessings, acknowledging that everything they possess is bestowed upon them by God's grace. By adopting a mindset of humility and gratitude, individuals can guard themselves against the allure of arrogance.

Arrogance is a detrimental characteristic that is considered haram in Islam due to its destructive impact on individuals and society. Islam promotes humility, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the worth of all individuals and fostering harmonious relationships. By cultivating humility, seeking refuge from arrogance, and embodying the example set forth by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), Muslims strive to embody the virtues that bring them closer to God and promote a just and compassionate society.

 

The Wisdom of Islam: A Hadith on Respecting the Worker

 

There is a profound hadith (saying) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that highlights the importance of respecting and valuing the dignity of workers. This hadith serves as a timeless reminder for us to uphold the rights and honor of those who labor for our benefit.

The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, "Give the worker his wages before his sweat dries." This concise and powerful statement encapsulates the essence of the Islamic teachings regarding the treatment of workers. It serves as a reminder that employers should fulfill their obligation to compensate their workers promptly and fairly, acknowledging their contributions and efforts.

This hadith emphasizes the value of human dignity and the recognition of labor as a noble endeavor. It reminds us that workers deserve not only fair compensation but also respect and gratitude for their hard work. Islam teaches that every individual, regardless of their occupation, deserves to be treated with dignity and fairness. Respecting workers and valuing their efforts contributes to building a just and compassionate society.

The Prophet's instruction to pay the worker before their sweat dries carries a deeper meaning. It urges employers to prioritize the financial well-being of their workers, ensuring that they receive their wages promptly. Delayed or withheld payments can cause hardship and anxiety for workers, undermining their dignity and financial stability. By honoring the principle of timely payment, employers uphold the Islamic value of justice and protect the rights of those who rely on their earnings to support themselves and their families.

This hadith also underscores the importance of fair compensation for labor. Islam emphasizes the concept of equitable exchange, where workers are compensated justly for their efforts. It encourages employers to provide wages that reflect the value of the work performed, ensuring that workers are not exploited or taken advantage of. Fair treatment and compensation promote a harmonious and balanced society, fostering mutual respect between employers and employees.

The timeless wisdom of this hadith is particularly relevant in today's world, where the rights and well-being of workers are sometimes overlooked. It serves as a call to employers, policymakers, and individuals to examine their practices and attitudes towards labor. By adopting the principles of respect, fairness, and timely payment, we can create work environments that are not only productive but also ethical and compassionate.

The hadith emphasizing the importance of respecting and valuing workers serves as a guiding principle in Islamic teachings. It reminds us of the significance of fair compensation, timely payment, and the recognition of the inherent dignity of every individual engaged in labor. By incorporating these principles into our personal and professional lives, we contribute to the creation of a just and compassionate society that upholds the rights and dignity of workers, fostering harmony and well-being for all.

My Journey to Islam: Emily Toone

 

The destination in all cases is one and the same, it is Islam, the religion Allah accepts from humans. Yet, every traveller from any religion, or from "no religion", to Islam has a different starting point. No wonder, every journey is a unique experience. In "My Journey to Islam" we trace the path taken by the travellers and hear from them how their journey was made.

In this episode, we meet Emily Toone to hear from her about her journey to Islam.

Muslim Mystics: Ibn Al-Arabi

 

Ibn Al-Arabi, also known as Muhyiddin Ibn Arabi, was a prominent Muslim mystic, philosopher, and poet who lived during the 12th and 13th centuries. His profound teachings have had a lasting impact on Islamic spirituality and philosophy. Ibn Al-Arabi's works explore the nature of reality, the concept of divine love, and the unity of all existence. In this blog post, we delve into the life and teachings of this influential figure, shedding light on his spiritual journey and the wisdom he left behind.

Early Life and Education:
Born in Murcia, Spain in 1165, Ibn Al-Arabi grew up in a society rich in intellectual and spiritual traditions. He came from a family of scholars and received a comprehensive education in Islamic sciences, including Qur'anic studies, jurisprudence, theology, and philosophy. His thirst for knowledge and spiritual understanding led him to travel extensively throughout the Islamic world, seeking wisdom from various scholars and Sufi masters.

The Concept of Oneness:
At the core of Ibn Al-Arabi's teachings is the concept of Wahdat al-Wujud, or the Unity of Existence. He believed that all of creation is a manifestation of the divine, and that every being reflects an aspect of God. According to Ibn Al-Arabi, the divine essence is limitless and transcends all boundaries, existing in everything and everyone. This mystical understanding of reality emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of recognizing the divine spark within each individual.

The Language of Love:
Love occupies a central position in Ibn Al-Arabi's philosophy. He saw love as the fundamental force that sustains the universe and unites humanity with the divine. For Ibn Al-Arabi, love was not just an emotion but a transformative power that could lead to spiritual realization. His concept of divine love, known as Ishq, emphasized the intense longing and desire for union with God. Through love, one could attain a state of annihilation (fana) in God and experience a profound sense of unity and ecstasy.

Metaphysical Cosmology:
Ibn Al-Arabi developed a complex metaphysical cosmology that incorporated both Islamic theology and Neoplatonic philosophy. He viewed the universe as a vast network of interrelated meanings, where each level of existence reflected a different aspect of the divine reality. According to Ibn Al-Arabi, the physical world was a shadowy reflection of the higher realms, and human beings possessed the potential to ascend through various stages of spiritual realization to attain proximity to God.

Influence and Legacy:
Ibn Al-Arabi's teachings had a significant impact on Islamic philosophy, mysticism, and literature. His works, such as the famous "Fusus al-Hikam" (The Bezels of Wisdom), continue to be studied and revered by scholars and seekers of spiritual truth. Ibn Al-Arabi's ideas also influenced subsequent Sufi orders, poets, and philosophers, shaping the development of Islamic thought throughout the centuries.

The life and teachings of Ibn Al-Arabi provide a profound insight into the depths of Islamic mysticism and philosophy. His exploration of the Unity of Existence, the language of love, and the interconnectedness of all things continue to inspire individuals on their spiritual journeys. Ibn Al-Arabi's legacy as a visionary and mystic has left an indelible mark on the intellectual and spiritual traditions of the Islamic world, reminding us of the transformative power of divine love and the pursuit of unity in a diverse and interconnected world.

Feeling Paralyzed by Stress and Fitna? | Khutbah with Dr. Omar Suleiman

Listen to this khutbah by Dr. Omar Suleiman as he explains how we can get maintain productivity when we are feeling paralyzed by bad news and stress.

The Prophetic Teachings on Caring for and Feeding Animals

 

Islam holds a deep reverence for all of Allah's creation, including animals. The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasize the importance of treating animals with kindness, compassion, and respect. In this blog post, we will explore some of the profound hadiths that highlight the virtue of caring for and feeding animals, underscoring the significance of animal welfare in the Islamic tradition.

Hadith 1: The Reward for Showing Kindness to Animals
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "A good deed done to an animal is like a good deed done to a human being, while an act of cruelty to an animal is as bad as cruelty to a human being" (Bukhari). This hadith underscores the interconnectedness of all living beings and highlights the moral responsibility Muslims have towards animals. It emphasizes that acts of compassion and kindness towards animals are greatly rewarded and should be considered on par with acts of kindness towards fellow humans.

Hadith 2: The Woman Granted Paradise for an Act of Kindness
The Prophet (peace be upon him) narrated the story of a woman who entered Hellfire because of her mistreatment of a cat, warning his companions about the gravity of such actions. He said: "She did not feed it or give it a drink when it was restrained, nor did she set it free to eat from the vermin of the earth" (Bukhari and Muslim). This powerful hadith serves as a reminder that neglecting or causing harm to animals can have severe consequences, highlighting the importance of caring for their well-being.

Hadith 3: The Reward for Providing Water to Animals
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) narrated: "While a man was walking on a journey, he became extremely thirsty. He found a well and went down to drink from it. Upon coming out, he saw a panting dog eating the moist earth from extreme thirst. The man said, 'This dog is suffering from the same thirst that I was.' So he went back down into the well, filled his shoe with water, and gave it to the dog to quench its thirst. Allah appreciated his action and forgave him" (Bukhari and Muslim). This beautiful hadith highlights the significance of providing water to thirsty animals and the immense rewards granted for such acts of compassion.

Hadith 4: Prohibition of Animal Cruelty
The Prophet (peace be upon him) forbade the mistreatment and abuse of animals. He said: "Verily, Allah has prescribed Ihsan (proficiency, perfection) in everything. So when you kill, kill well; and when you slaughter, slaughter well. Let each one of you sharpen his blade and spare suffering to the animal he slaughters" (Muslim). This hadith stresses the importance of performing acts of mercy and kindness, even when slaughtering animals for consumption, ensuring that their welfare is a priority.

Hadith 5: The Reward for Feeding Animals
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "There is a reward for serving any living being" (Bukhari). This hadith encompasses the broader concept of feeding and providing for the needs of animals. It highlights the virtue of selflessness and the rewards associated with fulfilling the basic requirements of all living creatures.

Conclusion:
The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) teach us the significance of caring for and feeding animals with kindness and compassion. Islam emphasizes the ethical treatment of animals, recognizing their rights and encouraging their well-being. By following these Prophetic teachings, we can foster a culture of empathy and responsibility towards all creatures, creating a world where animals are treated with the dignity and care they deserve. Let us strive to embody these teachings in our lives, becoming stewards of compassion and advocates for the welfare of all animals. I was truly inspired by the following story and the example of this kind-hearted brother I believe his as acted according to all the hadith and guidance alhamdulilah.