After the Taraweeh prayer, my Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib, has a gathering which is short and concise but full of wisdom and advice.
In last nights Taraweeh, Hadhrat was explaining the importance on ensuring one does not harm another person especially during the month of Ramadhan. So much so, that if a person was to complete his Faraidh (obligatory duties) and thereafter refrain from any other activity whilst secluding himself in his home, with the intention that he should save others from his harm. Then such a person will be regarded with such high status in the sight of Allah.
Hadhrat explained how is so unpredictable and unreliable. We give, within our lives, preference to activities such as eating, earning and materialistic things, although these are not forbidden they are futile for our Hereafter, and the key is to realise this and then continue with our lives.
The example Hadhrat gave was that of a balloon; we spend so much time in blowing air into the balloon and we make it grow and grow. However, it only takes a small pin to come and end all our efforts and the balloon will burst.
Similarly, in our lives (, we fill our days with so much things during our daily activities but we should always realise that the pin of death will take a fraction of a second to end all our efforts in this world.
Our lives are like the fragile balloons and whatever activities we do we is the air we are filling the balloon with.
May Allah give us the ability to remember Him continuously and to realise the reality of this life and through that give us the inclination to prepare for the Hereafter. Aameen
Showing posts with label Advice. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Advice. Show all posts
Sunday, August 07, 2011
Sunday, December 19, 2010
A Clean Heart?
During one of our lessons my Ustadh, Maulana Anwar Sahib, mentioned an incident which he experienced whilst offering Salaah in the Masjid.
My Ustadh would mention this story on many occasions to inform us and educate in regards to the religion and to show us the importance to understand the teachings of religion to ensure that the individual is actually following the true teachings of the religion and not just his whims and desires.
He mentioned, on one occasion when I was offering Salaah in the Masjid I saw an individual whose back was exposed whilst in Sajdah due to the short top he was wearing. I was offering Salaah behind him and when I completed my Salaah and he had completed his I approached him and told him politely, 'brother, I believe that your Salaah has become invalidated because your back was visible during Sajdah. However, it is best if you seek advise from a learned scholar just to confirm.'
Hearing this the brother became very annoyed and said, 'Dil Saaf Hona Chahye', translated as 'the heart needs to be pure'.
By this statement the individual was implying that these 'small' things don't matter, what actually matters is your intentions and the purity of your heart. If within your heart you have a clean intention then these things are trivial.
My Ustadh would relate this story and then inform us how many people's understanding religion is misplaced and through this misplaced understanding how people's actions become invalidated.
Indeed, one's heart needs to be pure and clean. Yet this does not mean that the teachings of the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم can be overlooked and misinterpreted. It is therefore essential that one learns the teachings of Islam in light of the Qur'an and Sunnah; an important lesson for any individual but more so for a student of knowledge.
My Ustadh would mention this story on many occasions to inform us and educate in regards to the religion and to show us the importance to understand the teachings of religion to ensure that the individual is actually following the true teachings of the religion and not just his whims and desires.
He mentioned, on one occasion when I was offering Salaah in the Masjid I saw an individual whose back was exposed whilst in Sajdah due to the short top he was wearing. I was offering Salaah behind him and when I completed my Salaah and he had completed his I approached him and told him politely, 'brother, I believe that your Salaah has become invalidated because your back was visible during Sajdah. However, it is best if you seek advise from a learned scholar just to confirm.'
Hearing this the brother became very annoyed and said, 'Dil Saaf Hona Chahye', translated as 'the heart needs to be pure'.
By this statement the individual was implying that these 'small' things don't matter, what actually matters is your intentions and the purity of your heart. If within your heart you have a clean intention then these things are trivial.
My Ustadh would relate this story and then inform us how many people's understanding religion is misplaced and through this misplaced understanding how people's actions become invalidated.
Indeed, one's heart needs to be pure and clean. Yet this does not mean that the teachings of the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم can be overlooked and misinterpreted. It is therefore essential that one learns the teachings of Islam in light of the Qur'an and Sunnah; an important lesson for any individual but more so for a student of knowledge.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Request or Order?
Alhumdulillah, the religion of Islam has outlined a complete way of life whilst balancing the rights given to each individual.
These rights are distributed and balanced to create harmony between various people, whether it be family members, colleagues, friends, teachers, students etc.
On this point my respected Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib, mentioned one of his rights as a father over his children. He mentioned that when he would want his son, my Ustadh, Maulana Imran Sahib, to return home at a certain time or to complete a certain task then he would never command by saying 'do this' as this would be within his rights and require his son to abide; and failing to do so would make him sinful.
Instead he would request through words such as 'can you...' which, whilst not exercising his rights, conveys the message of what he wants.
Alhumdulillah, through informing us of his personal practice, Hadhrat has shown as that the rights in Islam are their as a guidance to ensure that the needs of individuals are not violated and that each person is aware of their rights and responsibilities. However, many a times it is more beneficial to forego your rights to display your love and affection to those you love and also saving them from an obligation which could have lead to the individual becoming sinful.
Alhumdulillah, if we consider our rights in this manner then it will create an atmosphere of love and affection with those close to us. At the same time each person will learn to do things for another not because they 'have to' bit rather because they 'want to'
May Allah give us all the understanding to create an atmosphere of loge and affection within our homes and lives. Aameen.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
True Worship
Recently my Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib gave a talk on the auspicious occasion of Shab-e-Bara'ah (Laylat-ul Bara'ah). As usual, many people attended to the talk in order to benefit and take home some form of worship that they may bring into action for that night and earn the rewards that are mentioned for the blessed night.
On this occasion, My Shaykh gave a thought provoking talk on the 'true' form of worship which was iterated over the course of the talk. Following is a brief recollection of Hadhrat's message on this occasion:
The deed which needs to be concentrated on within this night, and in general, is the act of Muraaqabah / Dhyaan, thinking and pondering in general and in particular to the occurrence of death and all matters connected to it.
Allah تعالى has stated in the holy Qur'an
On this occasion, My Shaykh gave a thought provoking talk on the 'true' form of worship which was iterated over the course of the talk. Following is a brief recollection of Hadhrat's message on this occasion:
The deed which needs to be concentrated on within this night, and in general, is the act of Muraaqabah / Dhyaan, thinking and pondering in general and in particular to the occurrence of death and all matters connected to it.
Allah تعالى has stated in the holy Qur'an
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَلْتَنْظُرْ نَفْسٌ مَا قَدَّمَتْ لِغَدٍ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ خَبِيرٌ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونََ
"O you who believer! Fear Allah and let every soul look towards what he has (prepared and) sent forth for tomorrow, and fear Allah. Indeed he is aware of that which you do"
[Surah al-Hashr - 59:18]
In this verse, Allah's reference towards 'tomorrow' is an indication towards death and Qiyamah. Therefore, this verse is a reminder for all the believers that they should ponder over their deeds so that they may assess their deeds which they have prepared for the life that is to come after death.
In the eighteenth Parah Allah تعالى states:
In the eighteenth Parah Allah تعالى states:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا تُوبُوا إِلَى اللَّهِ تَوْبَةً نَصُوحًا
"O you who believer! Repent towards Allah, a sincere repentance"
"O you who believer! Repent towards Allah, a sincere repentance"
[Surah at-Tahreem - 66:18]
In this verse Allah تعالى is telling us 'توبوا' which means repent, and this should be done quickly, yet more so, immediately, as one cannot tell when one's Qiyamah will begin, which is at the time of his death. It could be so that death comes to us in our sleep and we do not have the opportunity to repent on another day.
At the time of death there will be 'Fikr' (worries) of so many different matters and one will not be able to repent at that time. Therefore, the time to repent is now.
Hadhrat Abdullah bin Mubarak رضي الله عنه was a great Muhaddith (scholar of Hadeeth) who had students in the excess of forty thousand who would attend his gathering within jungles just to acquire a single Hadeeth with his Sanad (chain of narration).
He states that at one point in life he fell in love with a woman, this was prior to being religiously inclined let alone being a Muhaddith. One day he appointed a time with women and told her to meet him at night at a particular place. As arranged, he went there and waited and waited. However, she never arrived and he waited all night. When Subh Sadiq (Dawn) was upon him the call of Adhaan reached his ears from a nearby Masjid. At this point he was astonished to find that it was already morning and felt great remorse upon the fact that he spent an entire night waiting for a woman that never came. At this point a thought crossed his mind; had I spent this time in the worship of Allah I surely would have achieved the status of a Wali (friend of Allah), whereas if death had taken him in this state he would have been doomed for Hell.
Upon this though he wept and repented to Allah with all sincerity and remorse. Thereafter, after Ishraaq (optional prayers) he set towards the town where many 'Ulamaa (scholars) resided. Whilst he was walking the sun was shining upon him and he could feel the heat on his head. He had just embarked upon his journey when a pious saint, heading in the same direction, accompanied him.
It was at this point that they both experienced a cloud above them which was providing a shade for them from the heat of the sun.
Hadhrat Abdullah ibn Mubarak understood that this is a great saint for whom the cloud is providing shade. However, at a point where the saint had to depart to his own destination, he saw that the cloud had remained upon the head of Hadhrat Abdullah ibn Mubarak as opposed to his own. This startled him and he questioned Hadhrat Abdullah ibn Mubarak as to what deeds he performed and how he obtained such a rank!
Subhanallah. يَا أَيُّهَا الإنْسَانُ مَا غَرَّكَ بِرَبِّكَ الْكَرِيمِ - O people! What has turned you away and deceived from your Merciful Lord? [Surah al-Infitaar - 82:6]. He is Allah, the one that elevates you after so many years of disobedience! He is Allah that raises you to the ranks of a Wali as soon as you turn towards Him and seek sincere forgiveness, توبة نصوحا!
We all know the difference between right and wrong and we are well aware of what is permissible and what is forbidden. In this night we need to remember death and what would happen to us if we were to die tonight.
I am therefore not emphasising the Fadha'il (rewards and blessings) of Salaah, Sawm and Tasbeehaat; instead the emphasis is on Muraaqabah (remembrance of death).
Sa'di says in his Persian poetry:
At the time of death there will be 'Fikr' (worries) of so many different matters and one will not be able to repent at that time. Therefore, the time to repent is now.
Hadhrat Abdullah bin Mubarak رضي الله عنه was a great Muhaddith (scholar of Hadeeth) who had students in the excess of forty thousand who would attend his gathering within jungles just to acquire a single Hadeeth with his Sanad (chain of narration).
He states that at one point in life he fell in love with a woman, this was prior to being religiously inclined let alone being a Muhaddith. One day he appointed a time with women and told her to meet him at night at a particular place. As arranged, he went there and waited and waited. However, she never arrived and he waited all night. When Subh Sadiq (Dawn) was upon him the call of Adhaan reached his ears from a nearby Masjid. At this point he was astonished to find that it was already morning and felt great remorse upon the fact that he spent an entire night waiting for a woman that never came. At this point a thought crossed his mind; had I spent this time in the worship of Allah I surely would have achieved the status of a Wali (friend of Allah), whereas if death had taken him in this state he would have been doomed for Hell.
Upon this though he wept and repented to Allah with all sincerity and remorse. Thereafter, after Ishraaq (optional prayers) he set towards the town where many 'Ulamaa (scholars) resided. Whilst he was walking the sun was shining upon him and he could feel the heat on his head. He had just embarked upon his journey when a pious saint, heading in the same direction, accompanied him.
It was at this point that they both experienced a cloud above them which was providing a shade for them from the heat of the sun.
Hadhrat Abdullah ibn Mubarak understood that this is a great saint for whom the cloud is providing shade. However, at a point where the saint had to depart to his own destination, he saw that the cloud had remained upon the head of Hadhrat Abdullah ibn Mubarak as opposed to his own. This startled him and he questioned Hadhrat Abdullah ibn Mubarak as to what deeds he performed and how he obtained such a rank!
Subhanallah. يَا أَيُّهَا الإنْسَانُ مَا غَرَّكَ بِرَبِّكَ الْكَرِيمِ - O people! What has turned you away and deceived from your Merciful Lord? [Surah al-Infitaar - 82:6]. He is Allah, the one that elevates you after so many years of disobedience! He is Allah that raises you to the ranks of a Wali as soon as you turn towards Him and seek sincere forgiveness, توبة نصوحا!
We all know the difference between right and wrong and we are well aware of what is permissible and what is forbidden. In this night we need to remember death and what would happen to us if we were to die tonight.
I am therefore not emphasising the Fadha'il (rewards and blessings) of Salaah, Sawm and Tasbeehaat; instead the emphasis is on Muraaqabah (remembrance of death).
Sa'di says in his Persian poetry:
The path upon which you are treading is that of Turkey,
you will therefore never reach the Ka'ba
you will therefore never reach the Ka'ba
I feel pity for these young people of today as they have not seen the Wali of Allah wale. Their talks and deeds would emit from the heart and penetrate directly into the heart.
The likes of Hadhrat Shah Wasi-ullah رحمه الله would be monitored so that a Karaamah (miracles) performed by the Shaykh. They would at times feel disappointed having felt that no Karaamah performed by the Shaykh. However, these were such authorities that had Jilaal and Jalaal, they would be aware of people's though and would correct them in the most appropriate way. On one such occasion Hadhrat Shah Wasi-ullah رحمه الله questioned the visitor as to whether he had seen Shah Wasi-ullah doing any act which was contradictory to the Sunnah. My friends, this is the real Karaamah.
This is also seen and experienced within the company of the likes of Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani. Remember, the Karaamaat of the Auliyaa are Haq (reality and in existence).
Allah continues in the verse mentioned above that if you seek sincere repentance then...
The likes of Hadhrat Shah Wasi-ullah رحمه الله would be monitored so that a Karaamah (miracles) performed by the Shaykh. They would at times feel disappointed having felt that no Karaamah performed by the Shaykh. However, these were such authorities that had Jilaal and Jalaal, they would be aware of people's though and would correct them in the most appropriate way. On one such occasion Hadhrat Shah Wasi-ullah رحمه الله questioned the visitor as to whether he had seen Shah Wasi-ullah doing any act which was contradictory to the Sunnah. My friends, this is the real Karaamah.
This is also seen and experienced within the company of the likes of Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani. Remember, the Karaamaat of the Auliyaa are Haq (reality and in existence).
Allah continues in the verse mentioned above that if you seek sincere repentance then...
عَسَى رَبُّكُمْ أَنْ يُكَفِّرَ عَنْكُمْ سَيِّئَاتِكُمْ وَيُدْخِلَكُمْ جَنَّاتٍ تَجْرِي مِنْ تَحْتِهَا الأنْهَارُ
"It is possible that your Lord will forgive your sins and enter you in to such a paradise under which rivers flow"
"It is possible that your Lord will forgive your sins and enter you in to such a paradise under which rivers flow"
[Surah at-Tahreem - 66:18]
The 'Ulamaa explain that when we say 'it may be possible' then there is a chance of that promise being fulfilled as well as a chance of it not being fulfilled. However, when Allah uses the term 'it may be possible' then the matter is final and it will definitely be the case and Allah will fulfil that which has stated.
The terminology is used here taking into consideration the audience. Allah is thinking of us and talking to us on our level. It is like when we talk to children and babies, we talk in their language and at their level; if we were to talk like that to an adult they would think that we have gone mad!
Look at the mercy of Allah; if we were in a position of authority and someone under our command made a mistake we would at best forgive the individual, but at the same time we would warn him and keep in mind that this individual has already made a mistake. We would not be prepared to forget the mistake that has been made and forgive his mistakes time and again.
However, the mercy of Allah is such that not only does He forgive His subjects, but He further gives you Jannah for seeking forgiveness; and this Jannah will be on such a day when people will be full of regret and remorse. Furthermore, as mentioned in the verse, He will grant you Nur (divine light) on that day also.
My Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib then mentioned an incident of a saint (whose name I cannot recall). At the time of the saint's demise he had his students around his death bed; these students were themselves great scholars. The saint instructed the students to make place around his death bed and then place him on the floor.
The students were reluctant to do this but upon the saint's persistence they had no choice but to abide. When the saint was placed on the floor he would rub his beard on the ground and seek Allah's mercy by saying, O Allah! Have mercy upon this white beard. He would say this repeatedly and it is in this state that his death came to him.
Death can come at any time and to anyone. Once a person came to me (meaning my Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib) for an illness which they had. The person was accompanied by another person who mentioned to Hadhrat that I am not in need of the Taaweez as I am quite healthy and drink gallons and gallons of milk per day (to maintain my health). It was a few days after they had come to see me that I was informed that this same person who was healthy and drinking gallons and gallons of milk had passed away.
Similarly, Rabiya Basariyah رحمة الله عليها was once busy in Dhikr when a man went past and rested upon a nearby tree. He opened his food that he had brought within him took out some roasted chicken.
On seeing this, Rabiya Basariyah began saying, O Allah, O Allah. The man offered her some food assuming that she was hungry and therefore showing remorse upon seeing the food. However, Rabiya Basariyah proclaimed, I don't need the food, I am crying and showing remorse because we slaughter the chicken and roast it in this world, but in the Hereafter we are the ones that will be roasted.
As mentioned in Surah al-Humazah, نَارُ اللَّهِ الْمُوقَدَةُ الَّتِي تَطَّلِعُ عَلَى الأفْئِدَةِ (the fire of Allah kindled, that which mounts upon the hearts)
Hadhrat ibn 'Aws رحمه الله was in the last Saff (row) behind Hadhrat 'Umar رضي الله عنه who was reciting Surah Yusuf. When the recitation reached the verses of إِنَّمَا أَشْكُو بَثِّي وَحُزْنِي إِلَى اللَّهِ (I complain of my grief and sorrow to Allah alone) he was overcome and could not continue his Salaah.
Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani رحمه الله called for his son at the time of his death. When his son arrived Shaykh Abdul Qadir gave him Naseehah and said, if u leave your Faraaidh for Nawafil then you have achieved nothing; if you do Haraam and forbidden acts then there is no point in your worship.
Remember the Hereafter! At the time of dead the deceased can hear the footsteps of those on the ground. If we have performed good deeds then it will not bother or trouble us when those who have buried us leave us.
Sa’di says that:
The terminology is used here taking into consideration the audience. Allah is thinking of us and talking to us on our level. It is like when we talk to children and babies, we talk in their language and at their level; if we were to talk like that to an adult they would think that we have gone mad!
Look at the mercy of Allah; if we were in a position of authority and someone under our command made a mistake we would at best forgive the individual, but at the same time we would warn him and keep in mind that this individual has already made a mistake. We would not be prepared to forget the mistake that has been made and forgive his mistakes time and again.
However, the mercy of Allah is such that not only does He forgive His subjects, but He further gives you Jannah for seeking forgiveness; and this Jannah will be on such a day when people will be full of regret and remorse. Furthermore, as mentioned in the verse, He will grant you Nur (divine light) on that day also.
My Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib then mentioned an incident of a saint (whose name I cannot recall). At the time of the saint's demise he had his students around his death bed; these students were themselves great scholars. The saint instructed the students to make place around his death bed and then place him on the floor.
The students were reluctant to do this but upon the saint's persistence they had no choice but to abide. When the saint was placed on the floor he would rub his beard on the ground and seek Allah's mercy by saying, O Allah! Have mercy upon this white beard. He would say this repeatedly and it is in this state that his death came to him.
Death can come at any time and to anyone. Once a person came to me (meaning my Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib) for an illness which they had. The person was accompanied by another person who mentioned to Hadhrat that I am not in need of the Taaweez as I am quite healthy and drink gallons and gallons of milk per day (to maintain my health). It was a few days after they had come to see me that I was informed that this same person who was healthy and drinking gallons and gallons of milk had passed away.
Similarly, Rabiya Basariyah رحمة الله عليها was once busy in Dhikr when a man went past and rested upon a nearby tree. He opened his food that he had brought within him took out some roasted chicken.
On seeing this, Rabiya Basariyah began saying, O Allah, O Allah. The man offered her some food assuming that she was hungry and therefore showing remorse upon seeing the food. However, Rabiya Basariyah proclaimed, I don't need the food, I am crying and showing remorse because we slaughter the chicken and roast it in this world, but in the Hereafter we are the ones that will be roasted.
As mentioned in Surah al-Humazah, نَارُ اللَّهِ الْمُوقَدَةُ الَّتِي تَطَّلِعُ عَلَى الأفْئِدَةِ (the fire of Allah kindled, that which mounts upon the hearts)
Hadhrat ibn 'Aws رحمه الله was in the last Saff (row) behind Hadhrat 'Umar رضي الله عنه who was reciting Surah Yusuf. When the recitation reached the verses of إِنَّمَا أَشْكُو بَثِّي وَحُزْنِي إِلَى اللَّهِ (I complain of my grief and sorrow to Allah alone) he was overcome and could not continue his Salaah.
Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani رحمه الله called for his son at the time of his death. When his son arrived Shaykh Abdul Qadir gave him Naseehah and said, if u leave your Faraaidh for Nawafil then you have achieved nothing; if you do Haraam and forbidden acts then there is no point in your worship.
Remember the Hereafter! At the time of dead the deceased can hear the footsteps of those on the ground. If we have performed good deeds then it will not bother or trouble us when those who have buried us leave us.
Sa’di says that:
The world is a time-pass, don't commit to it and depend upon it.
Don't become deceived and free of fear by the game of every day.
Don't take for granted whatever Allah has given you,
All that you have today have already passed before
and will come again after they perish from you.
Don't become deceived and free of fear by the game of every day.
Don't take for granted whatever Allah has given you,
All that you have today have already passed before
and will come again after they perish from you.
Let us be frank and straight forward, you will one day go from this world and so will I. Therefore, there is no need to be 'beat around the bush'... Remembrance of death in this night is essential.
May Allah give us all the inclination and strength to act upon what has been said and heard (and what has been written and read). Aameen
May Allah give us all the inclination and strength to act upon what has been said and heard (and what has been written and read). Aameen
Thursday, July 08, 2010
The Reality of Praise
Whilst I was with my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, we began to discuss the topic of praising one another due to a letter.
Whilst on the topic my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, gave an example of people who praise one another without the sincerity that should accompany it. He said:
There was once an individual that came to the king's court to meet him. Whilst in his presence he began to praise the king by attributing many qualities to him. The king continued to listen to the individual until he had finished and then told him to come the following day for his reward.
Upon hearing this, the man was extremely pleased and returned on the following day. When the king saw him in his court once again he asked, 'what brings you here?' The person reminded the king that he was here to collect his reward for the praising the king the day before.
On hearing this, the king replied, 'you praised me yesterday to please me and in return I pleased you by telling you come and collect a reward; we have both pleased each other with the tongue'.
After narrating this incident my respected teacher highlighted a few points:
Whilst on the topic my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, gave an example of people who praise one another without the sincerity that should accompany it. He said:
There was once an individual that came to the king's court to meet him. Whilst in his presence he began to praise the king by attributing many qualities to him. The king continued to listen to the individual until he had finished and then told him to come the following day for his reward.
Upon hearing this, the man was extremely pleased and returned on the following day. When the king saw him in his court once again he asked, 'what brings you here?' The person reminded the king that he was here to collect his reward for the praising the king the day before.
On hearing this, the king replied, 'you praised me yesterday to please me and in return I pleased you by telling you come and collect a reward; we have both pleased each other with the tongue'.
After narrating this incident my respected teacher highlighted a few points:
- Praise should not be for the sake of merely pleasing another individual and therefore it should be sincere from the heart.
- When someone praises you never get too happy. Remember that true praise is from the sincerity of the heart and not just uttered through words.
- Refrain from praising people in their presence as this is forbidden by our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم.
- When any person praises you then do not cross the boundaries of pleasure and satisfaction, instead evaluate whether such qualities are within you and be thankful to Allah. In the same manner, when an individual criticises you then again do not cross the boundaries of disappointment and displeasure, instead evaluate if such qualities are present within you, if they are then thank the individual for bringing them to your attention and if they are not then thank Allah that He has saved you from such qualities.
- Finally, do not confuse being thankful to being praising another. Our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم has stated that a person who is not thankful to people is not thankful to Allah. Therefore, thank individuals and Allah by not mere words but also in action.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Value of Ramadhan
Alhamdulillah, we have been fortunate once again to be present in the month of Ramadhan.
The value of Ramadhan can be truly understood by those who have a connection with Almighty Allah; and due to this connection they are able to feel the effect of their good deeds on their connection with Allah.
The month of Ramadhan is a month of economic boom. Each deed is multiplied in great quantities to give the believers benefit in every sense.
In regards to the month of Ramadhan my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, mentioned an example which gives us an implication of the value of this month:
The value of Ramadhan is like that of a thirty blank cheques; priceless. The value of this cheque is dependent on the individual who fills the cheque. If the person filling the cheque has any idea as to the value of the cheque then he will surely fill out a great amount.
In the same manner, we have been given a blank cheque which we have been told to fill in on a daily basis. Each day our actions will determine what amount the cheque is to be made of. The greater efforts we make, the greater the amount of the cheque.
In the same manner, my honourable Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib mentioned the importance of keeping our actions fruitful by not rendering them void through sinful acts.
Even the smallest of sin can deem our efforts and deeds void. The example of which Hadhrat gave of that person who cooks Biryani (an Indian dish) with great efforts. He puts in all the spices and prepares all the ingredients and mixed everything correctly. However, at the end of all his efforts he places a drop of poison in the food.
This food has now become, despite all of his efforts, useless. It is of no value and benefit to him and can in fact harm him.
We can also look at this theory along with the first example of a blank cheque where a person makes all the efforts and a large sum is entered on the cheque. However, due to his neglect he makes an error on the cheque which now needs countersigning and deems the cheque void.
Therefore, it is of utmost importance that a person takes maximum benefit of this Holy month as to be rewarded with immense generosity. Yet at the same time it is fundamental that sins are avoided so that our efforts are not destroyed.
May Allah give us all the inclination and ability to reap the benefits of this month and may He give us the strength and will power to refrain from sins. Aameen.
The value of Ramadhan can be truly understood by those who have a connection with Almighty Allah; and due to this connection they are able to feel the effect of their good deeds on their connection with Allah.
The month of Ramadhan is a month of economic boom. Each deed is multiplied in great quantities to give the believers benefit in every sense.
In regards to the month of Ramadhan my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, mentioned an example which gives us an implication of the value of this month:
The value of Ramadhan is like that of a thirty blank cheques; priceless. The value of this cheque is dependent on the individual who fills the cheque. If the person filling the cheque has any idea as to the value of the cheque then he will surely fill out a great amount.
In the same manner, we have been given a blank cheque which we have been told to fill in on a daily basis. Each day our actions will determine what amount the cheque is to be made of. The greater efforts we make, the greater the amount of the cheque.
In the same manner, my honourable Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib mentioned the importance of keeping our actions fruitful by not rendering them void through sinful acts.
Even the smallest of sin can deem our efforts and deeds void. The example of which Hadhrat gave of that person who cooks Biryani (an Indian dish) with great efforts. He puts in all the spices and prepares all the ingredients and mixed everything correctly. However, at the end of all his efforts he places a drop of poison in the food.
This food has now become, despite all of his efforts, useless. It is of no value and benefit to him and can in fact harm him.
We can also look at this theory along with the first example of a blank cheque where a person makes all the efforts and a large sum is entered on the cheque. However, due to his neglect he makes an error on the cheque which now needs countersigning and deems the cheque void.
Therefore, it is of utmost importance that a person takes maximum benefit of this Holy month as to be rewarded with immense generosity. Yet at the same time it is fundamental that sins are avoided so that our efforts are not destroyed.
May Allah give us all the inclination and ability to reap the benefits of this month and may He give us the strength and will power to refrain from sins. Aameen.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
The Shadow and the Boat
During a recent conversation I recalled one of the many sayings of my honourable Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib حفظه الله.
During our lessons and during many of his Islahi Duroos (lectures of self-rectification) he would highlight the desires of the human and also the true reality of this world.
The world is like a shadow
Hadhrat, on many occasions, has given the example of the world being like a person's shadow which is behind him.
Whilst we walk our shadow follows us, wherever we go, whatever we do that shadow continues to remain behind us. If we decided to run, that shadow would, with the same speed, remain with us also.
In the same manner, if we were to turn around and make the shadow in front of us, wherever we would walk it would remain in front of us, away from our reach. The shadow remains at the same distance away from us; if we run in order to obtain it, the shadow will also move away from us at the same speed.
Hadhrat explains the shadow as being the example of the world; if we run away from it then it will follow us and try to catch up with us but if we were to try and acquire it and attain it then we will forever be in efforts of obtaining it for it will run away from us.
Hadhrat also explained that this is specially the case for the 'Ulamaa as it has been clearly seen in their lives that the world has been brought to their feet while their aim has been to seclude themselves from the world.
The boat in the see like the love for the world
On many occasions Hadhrat has also mentioned the example of the love of this world and its true place within the life of a person.
As long as the water remains outside the boat then its passengers and the boat remain saved. In actual fact, it helps and aids the boat to reach its destination. However, if that same boat was to enter the boat then it would destroy the boat by sinking it.
The example of the world is the same, as long as it remains outside the heart then the person remains safe. In actual fact, the world is a means for a man's success in the hereafter. However, if the love of the world enters the heart then it destroys the person's life in this world and the Hereafter.
May Allah سبحانه و تعالى give us all the guidance and understanding on His religion so that we are able to make the Hereafter our primary aim and the world a measns to acquire this. Aameen.
During our lessons and during many of his Islahi Duroos (lectures of self-rectification) he would highlight the desires of the human and also the true reality of this world.
The world is like a shadow
Hadhrat, on many occasions, has given the example of the world being like a person's shadow which is behind him.
Whilst we walk our shadow follows us, wherever we go, whatever we do that shadow continues to remain behind us. If we decided to run, that shadow would, with the same speed, remain with us also.
In the same manner, if we were to turn around and make the shadow in front of us, wherever we would walk it would remain in front of us, away from our reach. The shadow remains at the same distance away from us; if we run in order to obtain it, the shadow will also move away from us at the same speed.
Hadhrat explains the shadow as being the example of the world; if we run away from it then it will follow us and try to catch up with us but if we were to try and acquire it and attain it then we will forever be in efforts of obtaining it for it will run away from us.
Hadhrat also explained that this is specially the case for the 'Ulamaa as it has been clearly seen in their lives that the world has been brought to their feet while their aim has been to seclude themselves from the world.
The boat in the see like the love for the world
On many occasions Hadhrat has also mentioned the example of the love of this world and its true place within the life of a person.
As long as the water remains outside the boat then its passengers and the boat remain saved. In actual fact, it helps and aids the boat to reach its destination. However, if that same boat was to enter the boat then it would destroy the boat by sinking it.
The example of the world is the same, as long as it remains outside the heart then the person remains safe. In actual fact, the world is a means for a man's success in the hereafter. However, if the love of the world enters the heart then it destroys the person's life in this world and the Hereafter.
May Allah سبحانه و تعالى give us all the guidance and understanding on His religion so that we are able to make the Hereafter our primary aim and the world a measns to acquire this. Aameen.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Be Distinguised and Unique
Yesterday my honourable Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib حفظه الله. called all the 'graduates' to impart some advice to us.
These meetings are at times frequent and they are nothing but an honour for me as they provide me with not just mere guidance but an insight of my honourable Shaykh's spirituality, mercy and consideration for his students and those who wish to benefit from him.
On this occasion the meeting was short as there was a period of thirty minutes before the Adhan of Eisha Salaah.
Amongst many advices, which were directed and particular for the 'graduates' there was one important advice, which despite being general, is one that can completely change the life of an individual with knowledge.
My honourable Shaykh Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib حفظه الله. reiterated the following phrase on several occasions to highlight its importance:
These meetings are at times frequent and they are nothing but an honour for me as they provide me with not just mere guidance but an insight of my honourable Shaykh's spirituality, mercy and consideration for his students and those who wish to benefit from him.
On this occasion the meeting was short as there was a period of thirty minutes before the Adhan of Eisha Salaah.
Amongst many advices, which were directed and particular for the 'graduates' there was one important advice, which despite being general, is one that can completely change the life of an individual with knowledge.
My honourable Shaykh Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib حفظه الله. reiterated the following phrase on several occasions to highlight its importance:
تمہاری زندگی ایک ممتاز زندگی ہوني چاہۓ
Your lifestyle should be a distinguished and unique lifestyle
Your lifestyle should be a distinguished and unique lifestyle
This sentence seems to be very self explanatory, especially when it is being directed to 'Ulamaa and graduates. It indicates that those for have graduated as 'Ulamaa should have a lifestyle which is not that of the ordinary layman. It should be a lifestyle which in itself sets an example for others to follow.
However, if we ponder of these words and think of it on a wider scale then we can implement this advice on each individual.
Primarily, those with Islamic knowledge end education should stand out from those who are less privileged in this area. The knowledge of this group of people should be reflected in their action and therefore be a cause of encouragement for others to follow in these steps and also implement these in their own lives.
On an even wider scale, those who have accepted Islam should have a distinguished lifestyle from those who have not accepted this Islam. Our religion should be highlighted and taught primarily through our actions and thereafter supplemented with our words.
Our actions, habits, manners and etiquettes should be the primary form of invitation to Islam, its knowledge and its adoption within our lifestyles.
I can recall during our days at the Darul Uloom, Hadhrat حفظه الله would ask us to implement the knowledge we taught at the time we acquired it. He would warn us that the knowledge we acquired was a gift from Allah سبحانه و تعالى and should not be taken for granted.
At the same time, a parent who has sent his child to the Darul Uloom should be able to distinguish and compare the etiquettes of one son who is in the Darul Uloom against another who has taken the path towards secular education. If there is no difference between the two then there is a fault within our implementation and understanding of this 'knowledge'.
In conclusion, it is vital for each person to be an example to the onlooker. Our actions should be the cause of someone's guidance and not their misguidance. In the same manner, those are in a position of leadership or high status they should implement actions which guide and encourage others towards the right path and not be a deterrent to bring the servants of Allah onto His chosen Path.
May Allah سبحانه و تعالى give us all the guidance and understanding on His religion so that we are able to primarily implement it within our lifestyles and thereafter, by doing so, making it a means of others being guided to the chosen Path of Allah سبحانه و تعالى. Aameen.
However, if we ponder of these words and think of it on a wider scale then we can implement this advice on each individual.
Primarily, those with Islamic knowledge end education should stand out from those who are less privileged in this area. The knowledge of this group of people should be reflected in their action and therefore be a cause of encouragement for others to follow in these steps and also implement these in their own lives.
On an even wider scale, those who have accepted Islam should have a distinguished lifestyle from those who have not accepted this Islam. Our religion should be highlighted and taught primarily through our actions and thereafter supplemented with our words.
Our actions, habits, manners and etiquettes should be the primary form of invitation to Islam, its knowledge and its adoption within our lifestyles.
I can recall during our days at the Darul Uloom, Hadhrat حفظه الله would ask us to implement the knowledge we taught at the time we acquired it. He would warn us that the knowledge we acquired was a gift from Allah سبحانه و تعالى and should not be taken for granted.
At the same time, a parent who has sent his child to the Darul Uloom should be able to distinguish and compare the etiquettes of one son who is in the Darul Uloom against another who has taken the path towards secular education. If there is no difference between the two then there is a fault within our implementation and understanding of this 'knowledge'.
In conclusion, it is vital for each person to be an example to the onlooker. Our actions should be the cause of someone's guidance and not their misguidance. In the same manner, those are in a position of leadership or high status they should implement actions which guide and encourage others towards the right path and not be a deterrent to bring the servants of Allah onto His chosen Path.
May Allah سبحانه و تعالى give us all the guidance and understanding on His religion so that we are able to primarily implement it within our lifestyles and thereafter, by doing so, making it a means of others being guided to the chosen Path of Allah سبحانه و تعالى. Aameen.
Monday, August 18, 2008
The 15th Night of Sha'ban (ليلة البراءة)
Amongst the many virtues of the month of شعبان (Sha'ban) is the fifteenth night; which is commonly known as ليلة البراءة (Laylatul Baraa'ah - The night of freedom from the Hell fire).
There are many evidences of the blessings and auspiciousness if this night within the Ahadeeth of our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم. A leaflet, by my respected teacher, highlighting a few of these can be found here.
On this auspicious night my respected teacher gave a talk followed by the talk of my honourable Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib حفظه الله. I feel it necessary to highlight some of the points he made and outlining the gist and content of his talk. Here is a summary of his talk:
The blessed night of Sha'ban is that night within which we seek sincere forgiveness from Allah for all of our sins; a night within which we make a change and revere that forgiveness by upholding it not for this night along but for eternity.
If we think that by praying tonight we will be forgiven regardless of our actions tomorrow then we are in a great misconception. If we pray all night and then forget the morning prayer (Fajr) then this night of prayer has been futile and wasted. I have mentioned many a times that the saints have explained that when we offer Salaah for Allah then the sign of its acceptance is the offering of the following Salaah; if we offer the following Salaah then we should assume that Allah has accepted our first prayer and if not then the first prayer has not been accepted.
In the same manner, if we worship Allah through this night and then we follow this worship with dedication to gain His proximity then we can assume that this night of prayer has been accepted by Him. Let us remember that the Religion is that which Allah has outlined and not that which we have invented ourselves. Our belief that this night will cleanse us all sins is rejected by Allah if we fail to follow Him and worship Him at all times.
If we want to make this night one of acceptance then we should aim to sincerely turn to Allah asking for His forgiveness from all those sins which we have committed with a firm intention to leave all the sins; those which we can leave immediately should be shunned at that point and those which take time (example interest related loans) we should aim to seek out a solution which will free us from such sins.
You may have heard of the great scholar and saint Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak رحمه الله. A great personallity and ولي الله (friend of Allah). He is known today as one of the greatest Muhaditheen (scholars of Hadith) and he is quoted in many books of Ahadith and commentaries of the Arabs. Listen to his story of sincere forgiveness:
There are many evidences of the blessings and auspiciousness if this night within the Ahadeeth of our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم. A leaflet, by my respected teacher, highlighting a few of these can be found here.
On this auspicious night my respected teacher gave a talk followed by the talk of my honourable Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib حفظه الله. I feel it necessary to highlight some of the points he made and outlining the gist and content of his talk. Here is a summary of his talk:
The blessed night of Sha'ban is that night within which we seek sincere forgiveness from Allah for all of our sins; a night within which we make a change and revere that forgiveness by upholding it not for this night along but for eternity.
If we think that by praying tonight we will be forgiven regardless of our actions tomorrow then we are in a great misconception. If we pray all night and then forget the morning prayer (Fajr) then this night of prayer has been futile and wasted. I have mentioned many a times that the saints have explained that when we offer Salaah for Allah then the sign of its acceptance is the offering of the following Salaah; if we offer the following Salaah then we should assume that Allah has accepted our first prayer and if not then the first prayer has not been accepted.
In the same manner, if we worship Allah through this night and then we follow this worship with dedication to gain His proximity then we can assume that this night of prayer has been accepted by Him. Let us remember that the Religion is that which Allah has outlined and not that which we have invented ourselves. Our belief that this night will cleanse us all sins is rejected by Allah if we fail to follow Him and worship Him at all times.
If we want to make this night one of acceptance then we should aim to sincerely turn to Allah asking for His forgiveness from all those sins which we have committed with a firm intention to leave all the sins; those which we can leave immediately should be shunned at that point and those which take time (example interest related loans) we should aim to seek out a solution which will free us from such sins.
You may have heard of the great scholar and saint Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak رحمه الله. A great personallity and ولي الله (friend of Allah). He is known today as one of the greatest Muhaditheen (scholars of Hadith) and he is quoted in many books of Ahadith and commentaries of the Arabs. Listen to his story of sincere forgiveness:
Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak was a ordinary man who had not acquired the realisation of Allah. At one point he fell in love with a women for whom he waited an entire night and even then the women did not show. He waited for her for such a long period that he heard the Adhan (call) for Fajr being called. At this point he felt such remorse within his heart at the time he had wasted in anticipation of this women; if he had spent that time for Allah he would have surely been rewared. With this thought in mind he entered the Masjid with the sincere intention of mending his ways and seeking a Shaykh's company who would guide him towards acquiring Allah. To fulfill this he travelled with a saint some time after leaving the Masjid.
Whilst on this journey with the saint they both noticed a cloud over their heads shading them from the heat of the son. Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak assumed that this was the saints position in the sight of Allah and was pleased from being saved from the sun. They travelled to a point where they had to split up; upon doing so the saint had assumed that the cloud would accompany him. However, seeing that the cloud had parted from above him and shaded Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak inspired him to make an inquest of the matter.
Upon questioning Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak the saint learnt his story and proclaimed, by Allah, you have become a ولي الله (friend of Allah) from the moment you stepped out of the Masjid. You may be travelling to acquire a Shaykh but I can assure you that you will find none with an equal status to yours.
Whilst on this journey with the saint they both noticed a cloud over their heads shading them from the heat of the son. Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak assumed that this was the saints position in the sight of Allah and was pleased from being saved from the sun. They travelled to a point where they had to split up; upon doing so the saint had assumed that the cloud would accompany him. However, seeing that the cloud had parted from above him and shaded Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak inspired him to make an inquest of the matter.
Upon questioning Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak the saint learnt his story and proclaimed, by Allah, you have become a ولي الله (friend of Allah) from the moment you stepped out of the Masjid. You may be travelling to acquire a Shaykh but I can assure you that you will find none with an equal status to yours.
Look at this incident my respected brothers! The power of sincerity and true forgiveness can turn a person into the friend of Allah in a split second.
We have become negligent and unaware of this matter; we have chosen to sit in a lighted room like the one we are in now, full of tube lights, yet the tube light of our heart has been switched off. If we just switched on the light within out hearts we would find no need to sit under the hundreds of tube lights to feel enlightened. Look at Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak, he switched on the light within his heart and became the friend of Allah in a blink of an eyelid.
We all know of the famous saint Hadhrat Hasan al-Basri رحمه الله; let us listen to an incident that took place in his time.
We have become negligent and unaware of this matter; we have chosen to sit in a lighted room like the one we are in now, full of tube lights, yet the tube light of our heart has been switched off. If we just switched on the light within out hearts we would find no need to sit under the hundreds of tube lights to feel enlightened. Look at Hadhrat 'Abdullah ibn Mubarak, he switched on the light within his heart and became the friend of Allah in a blink of an eyelid.
We all know of the famous saint Hadhrat Hasan al-Basri رحمه الله; let us listen to an incident that took place in his time.
There was once a boy whose father had passed away during his early age. The mother decided not to marry again as she was in certainty of remaining chaste and was hoping for the child's welfare by not remarrying. The child however grew to become mischievous and misguided. He had wealth and youth which he used both without any limits and consideration of right and wrong.
The mother was a pious woman and when she learnt of her son's behaviour she turned to her teacher, Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri to have a word with him. Hoping that this would make a difference, Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri on many occasions talked with the young man and advised him and called him towards Allah. However, the boy remained engrossed in his lifestyle and ignored the saint's advice.
It so happened that the boy became ill, as is the case with sins; it sickens the physical and spiritual body, and it reached a stage where he was bed bound. It was not that he realised his mistakes and turned to Allah knowing that his time had come to an end. In anticipation of repenting and turning to Allah he asked his mother to approach Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri and inform him of his condition and to implore him to visit her dying son. He also told her that if the saint refused to visit him then to ask him to lead his Janaza prayer upon his death.
The mother approached her teacher, Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri, narrating to him what her son had stated. On hearing this Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri became angered and said it is my time to teach and I will not leave my students who are eager to learn for someone who ignored my advice time and again. The mother then informed him of her son’s request for Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri to lead his Janaza prayer upon which, whilst in his anger, he said I shall not offer his prayer as he never offered prayer whilst he was alive and never turned to Allah.
The mother returned to her dying son with tears in her eyes; she told her son of the conversation that had taken place. Her son consoled her and instructed her to tie scarf around his neck upon his death and to drag him outside the house so that the onlookers could see the state of such a person who does not turn to Allah and follow his commands. He also stated that upon his death he should not be buried in the Muslim graveyard lest his punishment would descend upon them also; instead he should be buried in a corner of the garden of the house.
A short while later the son passed away leaving his mother in tears. During this time a knock was heard on the door. Hearing this the mother exclaimed, who is the one who knocks the door at this time to which she heard, it is me, Hassan al-Basri. The women hurried to open the door and informed the saint of the final request of her son as well as to enquire as to why the saint had decided to come. Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri informed her that he had never been privileged to see Allah except at that moment in which she had left. When Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri went to rest in the afternoon Allah came to him in his dream and said are you, being the friend of Allah, not going to lead the Janaza prayer of another friend of Allah? At this moment I realised the status of your son who, with his broken heart, has acquired the position of a ولي الله.
The mother was a pious woman and when she learnt of her son's behaviour she turned to her teacher, Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri to have a word with him. Hoping that this would make a difference, Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri on many occasions talked with the young man and advised him and called him towards Allah. However, the boy remained engrossed in his lifestyle and ignored the saint's advice.
It so happened that the boy became ill, as is the case with sins; it sickens the physical and spiritual body, and it reached a stage where he was bed bound. It was not that he realised his mistakes and turned to Allah knowing that his time had come to an end. In anticipation of repenting and turning to Allah he asked his mother to approach Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri and inform him of his condition and to implore him to visit her dying son. He also told her that if the saint refused to visit him then to ask him to lead his Janaza prayer upon his death.
The mother approached her teacher, Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri, narrating to him what her son had stated. On hearing this Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri became angered and said it is my time to teach and I will not leave my students who are eager to learn for someone who ignored my advice time and again. The mother then informed him of her son’s request for Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri to lead his Janaza prayer upon which, whilst in his anger, he said I shall not offer his prayer as he never offered prayer whilst he was alive and never turned to Allah.
The mother returned to her dying son with tears in her eyes; she told her son of the conversation that had taken place. Her son consoled her and instructed her to tie scarf around his neck upon his death and to drag him outside the house so that the onlookers could see the state of such a person who does not turn to Allah and follow his commands. He also stated that upon his death he should not be buried in the Muslim graveyard lest his punishment would descend upon them also; instead he should be buried in a corner of the garden of the house.
A short while later the son passed away leaving his mother in tears. During this time a knock was heard on the door. Hearing this the mother exclaimed, who is the one who knocks the door at this time to which she heard, it is me, Hassan al-Basri. The women hurried to open the door and informed the saint of the final request of her son as well as to enquire as to why the saint had decided to come. Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri informed her that he had never been privileged to see Allah except at that moment in which she had left. When Hadhrat Hassan al-Basri went to rest in the afternoon Allah came to him in his dream and said are you, being the friend of Allah, not going to lead the Janaza prayer of another friend of Allah? At this moment I realised the status of your son who, with his broken heart, has acquired the position of a ولي الله.
So you see my friends, it takes just a few moments to become the friend of Allah if one has the sincerity in his heart and the ability to seek a sincere forgiveness. Let us all turn to Him, seeking His forgiveness and making a promise that we shall immediately leave all sins and should we make an error we shall turn to Him immediately. If we do this then this night will truly be a blessed and auspicious night for us.
May Allah give us all the inclination to seek sincere forgiveness and to leave all sins immediately so that by doing so we can attain the rank of ولي الله. Aameen.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Importance of Islamic Education
Recently Hadhrat called all the parents of those students in the 'Alim classes to generally discuss the decision taken by the parents to enrol their children into the 'Alim course. He highlighted the importance of Islamic education and its importance for the children as well as the parents.
He gave an emotional and touching talk explaining the value of Islamic knowledge and the difference of children who are educated with Islamic knowledge in comparison to those who are ignorant of Islamic understanding.
Many examples were giving from Hadhrat's experiences; some of which are paraphrased below:
1. I was once in a car during my journey to Syria where the driver went past a small snake (palm size). The driver stopped the car and killed the snake. I asked him, why go through so much trouble to kill the small snake. He said, today the snake is small but a time will come when it will grow and start biting all the people.
2. Once whilst in Azadville I was returning home from the Masjid when I was told by my companions that there was a ill man and we should visit him. Upon visiting him he thanked us by saying he was awaiting someome who could give him water. The man was in his last days and we assumed he had no children. But whilst getting the water we saw all his young children sitting and watching television.
3. On one occasion I enquired about a man on his death bed who was being punched by a young lad. I was told that the young person was the son of the dying old man who was thumping the old man to retrieve from him the location and amount of his wealth that he was leaving behind.
4. In one of the newspapers there was a printed letter from a young girl who wrote to her father from the confines of her prison cell. She wrote to inform her father that he was liable and to blame for her current situation as he had not taught her the religious obligations and had not guided her. She added that she would be punished in this world but he would be punished in the Hereafter as well.
All these incidents show us how our children will become without religious guidance and knowledge. They will become like that small snake who might seem harmless today but in the future will yearn to bite us.
This is just an indication of the benefits of Deen and Islamic knowledge. If the true benefits were known then people would send their children to Madrassah without question and there would be no place in the Darul Ulooms to accommodate these people. Like it is mentioned regarding the Salaah; people would come crawling even if they had no legs.
These are indications which I am sure you can understand and comprehend the entire depths of. Time is short and I don't want to go into too much details. But I would like to congratulate you on sending your children to the Madrassah for this knowledge. Don't question as to where their livelihood will come from.
Will a man in a hut with sufficient funds and livelihood ever swap places with a wealthy man who has a mansion yet has an illness which keeps him distressed? There are many incidents of such people; some people have invited me to dinner at their houses and have asked me to make Du'aa for them; despite their apparent comfort and luxury they are suffering.
On one occasion, I was visited by a man who had come in a brand-new Mercedes, he came he to seek advice about family issues and problems. Tell me of what use is this luxury and Mercedes? I am not saying that it is not permissible to have luxuries and Mercedes; may Allah give Barakah (blessing) in the wealth of the believers. What I am saying is that apparent wealth is of no value if it is does not come with peace and contentment; and this can only be found in the remembrance of Allah and educating our children in matters of Deen.
Only when they come to the Darul Ulooms and Madaaris will they be drilled with the value and importance of one's parents; only then will they know of the punishments of mistreating their elders and parents. I teach they Sahih Bukhari here and daily we come across Ahadeeth were at times it is mentioned that Jannah lies under the feet of the mother and at times it states that your parents are your Jannah or your Jahannam.
May Allah give us all the understanding of Deen and give us the inclination to send our children to the Darul Ulooms to teach them their religion and importance of parents so that they can be the coolness of their parents' eyes. Aameen
He gave an emotional and touching talk explaining the value of Islamic knowledge and the difference of children who are educated with Islamic knowledge in comparison to those who are ignorant of Islamic understanding.
Many examples were giving from Hadhrat's experiences; some of which are paraphrased below:
1. I was once in a car during my journey to Syria where the driver went past a small snake (palm size). The driver stopped the car and killed the snake. I asked him, why go through so much trouble to kill the small snake. He said, today the snake is small but a time will come when it will grow and start biting all the people.
2. Once whilst in Azadville I was returning home from the Masjid when I was told by my companions that there was a ill man and we should visit him. Upon visiting him he thanked us by saying he was awaiting someome who could give him water. The man was in his last days and we assumed he had no children. But whilst getting the water we saw all his young children sitting and watching television.
3. On one occasion I enquired about a man on his death bed who was being punched by a young lad. I was told that the young person was the son of the dying old man who was thumping the old man to retrieve from him the location and amount of his wealth that he was leaving behind.
4. In one of the newspapers there was a printed letter from a young girl who wrote to her father from the confines of her prison cell. She wrote to inform her father that he was liable and to blame for her current situation as he had not taught her the religious obligations and had not guided her. She added that she would be punished in this world but he would be punished in the Hereafter as well.
All these incidents show us how our children will become without religious guidance and knowledge. They will become like that small snake who might seem harmless today but in the future will yearn to bite us.
This is just an indication of the benefits of Deen and Islamic knowledge. If the true benefits were known then people would send their children to Madrassah without question and there would be no place in the Darul Ulooms to accommodate these people. Like it is mentioned regarding the Salaah; people would come crawling even if they had no legs.
These are indications which I am sure you can understand and comprehend the entire depths of. Time is short and I don't want to go into too much details. But I would like to congratulate you on sending your children to the Madrassah for this knowledge. Don't question as to where their livelihood will come from.
Will a man in a hut with sufficient funds and livelihood ever swap places with a wealthy man who has a mansion yet has an illness which keeps him distressed? There are many incidents of such people; some people have invited me to dinner at their houses and have asked me to make Du'aa for them; despite their apparent comfort and luxury they are suffering.
On one occasion, I was visited by a man who had come in a brand-new Mercedes, he came he to seek advice about family issues and problems. Tell me of what use is this luxury and Mercedes? I am not saying that it is not permissible to have luxuries and Mercedes; may Allah give Barakah (blessing) in the wealth of the believers. What I am saying is that apparent wealth is of no value if it is does not come with peace and contentment; and this can only be found in the remembrance of Allah and educating our children in matters of Deen.
Only when they come to the Darul Ulooms and Madaaris will they be drilled with the value and importance of one's parents; only then will they know of the punishments of mistreating their elders and parents. I teach they Sahih Bukhari here and daily we come across Ahadeeth were at times it is mentioned that Jannah lies under the feet of the mother and at times it states that your parents are your Jannah or your Jahannam.
May Allah give us all the understanding of Deen and give us the inclination to send our children to the Darul Ulooms to teach them their religion and importance of parents so that they can be the coolness of their parents' eyes. Aameen
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
The Knowledgeable
On Friday Hadhrat called all the 'graduates' of the Jame'ah to give them some advice.
Amongst some very touching Naseehah (advice) Hadhrat mentioned the following points to us*:
1. Knowledge will only be beneficial to that person who puts his knowledge into action.
2. There should be a unmistakable difference between that person who has acquired knowledge and that person who is deprived from it; the knowledgeable should excel the latter in his character, worship, social behaviour and etiquettes.
3. It is a great Bid'ah (innovation in Religion) to neglect the obligatory commandments of Allah (Fara'idh) whilst aiming to accomplish those acts which are recommended (Nafl).
4. The person who has acquired knowledge is much in need of guidance and reformation. For this it is not essential to seek allegiance with an elder but it is necessary to seek their guidance, advice and attend their gatherings.
5. The knowledgeable is superior over the worshipper in a sense that the worship of a worshipper will be salvation for him alone whilst the knowledge of the learned will be the source of salvation of many. However, knowledge without action is not a form of guidance but one of deviation.
6. The knowledge of each individual should make him constantly aware of Allah's omnipresence and should therefore compel him to worship Allah without any compromise. The realisation of Allah's presence is the ultimate aim which is gained through knowledge and supported through worship
7. The ultimate source of a learned man should always be referenced to the Qur'an and Hadith. These are the origins of every ruling and it is through these guiding words that one should mould his life and set his actions.
* please note that these are not the exact words and exact advices; some of it is paraphrasing whilst others are messages of a long discussion.
May Allah give us all the vision to realise that our actions could result to the guidance and misleading of others. May Allah give us the courage to that which is according to the Shari'ah, whether we are regarded as leaders or followers.
May He free us from Pride, a barrier from seeking Knowledge and gaining His proximity. May He give us the love, value and zeal to sit in the company of the pious and benefit from their Knowledge and their spirituality. Aameen.
Amongst some very touching Naseehah (advice) Hadhrat mentioned the following points to us*:
1. Knowledge will only be beneficial to that person who puts his knowledge into action.
2. There should be a unmistakable difference between that person who has acquired knowledge and that person who is deprived from it; the knowledgeable should excel the latter in his character, worship, social behaviour and etiquettes.
3. It is a great Bid'ah (innovation in Religion) to neglect the obligatory commandments of Allah (Fara'idh) whilst aiming to accomplish those acts which are recommended (Nafl).
4. The person who has acquired knowledge is much in need of guidance and reformation. For this it is not essential to seek allegiance with an elder but it is necessary to seek their guidance, advice and attend their gatherings.
5. The knowledgeable is superior over the worshipper in a sense that the worship of a worshipper will be salvation for him alone whilst the knowledge of the learned will be the source of salvation of many. However, knowledge without action is not a form of guidance but one of deviation.
6. The knowledge of each individual should make him constantly aware of Allah's omnipresence and should therefore compel him to worship Allah without any compromise. The realisation of Allah's presence is the ultimate aim which is gained through knowledge and supported through worship
7. The ultimate source of a learned man should always be referenced to the Qur'an and Hadith. These are the origins of every ruling and it is through these guiding words that one should mould his life and set his actions.
* please note that these are not the exact words and exact advices; some of it is paraphrasing whilst others are messages of a long discussion.
May Allah give us all the vision to realise that our actions could result to the guidance and misleading of others. May Allah give us the courage to that which is according to the Shari'ah, whether we are regarded as leaders or followers.
May He free us from Pride, a barrier from seeking Knowledge and gaining His proximity. May He give us the love, value and zeal to sit in the company of the pious and benefit from their Knowledge and their spirituality. Aameen.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Kwowledge vs. Pride
Yesterday Hadhrat called us into the office to talk to all the 'graduates' of the Jame'ah.
Amongst some very touching Naseehah (advice) Hadhrat mentioned the following points to us*:
1. Never think too great of yourselves; if you have pride within yourselves then that pride will act as a barrier not to only seeking further Knowledge but it will distance you from the Knowledge you already feel you have.
2. Never feel belittled by sitting in the company of the pious. Don't think that the knowledge you have is sufficient and never think that you're better than the Awaam (general public) because of your knowledge. The Knowledge and Taqwa obtained in the company of the pious can never be achieved from reading and studying books. This is the sole reason that many Awaam have surpassed those who feel they have Knowledge.
3. Never feel that worldly knowledge is superior to Islamic knowledge and never feel that you can refrain from the company of the pious whilst seeking worldly knowledge, even though you may have completed the 'Alim course. Remember, the worldly knowledge is for the acquiring of wealth for this world to be able to feed yourself whilst the knowledge of the Hereafter is for both the worlds.
4. Always keep a constant check on yourself, especially if you are studying worldly knowledge. It will drown you in such a manner that you will only realise when its too late. Keep in the company of the pious and always seek their advice and opinion.
5. Always seek advice from your elders even if you know the Mas'ala (ruling). You may be able to do Islaah of someone else (give spiritual remedy) but you can never do Islaah of yourself. Ask your elders and ensure that you are doing what is correct according to the Shari'ah and not that which your heart desires.
6. You should always remember that your actions are representative of Islam; whatever you do is being viewed by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. So before do an action or refrain from one, remember that you are firstly being overseen by Allah and then that your actions could affect the thoughts and actions of hundreds of other people.
* please note that these are not the exact words and exact advices; some of it is paraphrasing whilst others are messages of a long discussion.
May Allah give us all the vision to realise that our actions could result to the guidance and misleading of others. May Allah give us the courage to that which is according to the Shari'ah, whether we are regarded as leaders or followers.
May He free us from Pride, a barrier from seeking Knowledge and gaining His proximity. May He give us the love, value and zeal to sit in the company of the pious and benefit from their Knowledge and their spirituality. Aameen.
Amongst some very touching Naseehah (advice) Hadhrat mentioned the following points to us*:
1. Never think too great of yourselves; if you have pride within yourselves then that pride will act as a barrier not to only seeking further Knowledge but it will distance you from the Knowledge you already feel you have.
2. Never feel belittled by sitting in the company of the pious. Don't think that the knowledge you have is sufficient and never think that you're better than the Awaam (general public) because of your knowledge. The Knowledge and Taqwa obtained in the company of the pious can never be achieved from reading and studying books. This is the sole reason that many Awaam have surpassed those who feel they have Knowledge.
3. Never feel that worldly knowledge is superior to Islamic knowledge and never feel that you can refrain from the company of the pious whilst seeking worldly knowledge, even though you may have completed the 'Alim course. Remember, the worldly knowledge is for the acquiring of wealth for this world to be able to feed yourself whilst the knowledge of the Hereafter is for both the worlds.
4. Always keep a constant check on yourself, especially if you are studying worldly knowledge. It will drown you in such a manner that you will only realise when its too late. Keep in the company of the pious and always seek their advice and opinion.
5. Always seek advice from your elders even if you know the Mas'ala (ruling). You may be able to do Islaah of someone else (give spiritual remedy) but you can never do Islaah of yourself. Ask your elders and ensure that you are doing what is correct according to the Shari'ah and not that which your heart desires.
6. You should always remember that your actions are representative of Islam; whatever you do is being viewed by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. So before do an action or refrain from one, remember that you are firstly being overseen by Allah and then that your actions could affect the thoughts and actions of hundreds of other people.
* please note that these are not the exact words and exact advices; some of it is paraphrasing whilst others are messages of a long discussion.
May Allah give us all the vision to realise that our actions could result to the guidance and misleading of others. May Allah give us the courage to that which is according to the Shari'ah, whether we are regarded as leaders or followers.
May He free us from Pride, a barrier from seeking Knowledge and gaining His proximity. May He give us the love, value and zeal to sit in the company of the pious and benefit from their Knowledge and their spirituality. Aameen.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Allah's Mercy Upon One, Spreads to Another
Whilst looking through my notes, I found some Naseehah (advices) given to us by Hadhrat whilst he was teaching us Tarjumat-ul-Qur'an.
Hadhrat mentioned that once, Maulana Qasim Nanotwi رحمه الله was sitting, and his disciples were fanning him. During which a person came to him and questioned him: "When a sinful person is buried next to a pious person does he benefit from the mercy and blessings that are revealed on the pious person?"
On hearing this question, Maualana Qasim Nanotwi رحمه الله questioned him, "Can you feel the breeze from the fanning that is being done for me?" He replied, "Yes". To this Maulana Qasim Nanotwi رحمه الله replied, "There it is, if you can experience the benefits in this world for an act which is being done for me, then surely Allah's mercy and blessings are much more vast."
For me, this statement diverted my attention towards the fact that the questioning of a person begins in the grave and that each individual will be tormented in the grave or will be rewarded for his piety.
Similarly, if the proximity and adjacency of a pious person can be of benefit even after his death, one should try and ponder over the benefit that can be derived from a pious person during his life. Through his company a man can enjoy and benefit from the mercy and blessings of Allah.
May Allah give us all the inclination to keep in the company of the pious. Aameen.
Hadhrat mentioned that once, Maulana Qasim Nanotwi رحمه الله was sitting, and his disciples were fanning him. During which a person came to him and questioned him: "When a sinful person is buried next to a pious person does he benefit from the mercy and blessings that are revealed on the pious person?"
On hearing this question, Maualana Qasim Nanotwi رحمه الله questioned him, "Can you feel the breeze from the fanning that is being done for me?" He replied, "Yes". To this Maulana Qasim Nanotwi رحمه الله replied, "There it is, if you can experience the benefits in this world for an act which is being done for me, then surely Allah's mercy and blessings are much more vast."
For me, this statement diverted my attention towards the fact that the questioning of a person begins in the grave and that each individual will be tormented in the grave or will be rewarded for his piety.
Similarly, if the proximity and adjacency of a pious person can be of benefit even after his death, one should try and ponder over the benefit that can be derived from a pious person during his life. Through his company a man can enjoy and benefit from the mercy and blessings of Allah.
May Allah give us all the inclination to keep in the company of the pious. Aameen.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
The Realistion of Allah's Presence
During the 'Alim course there were numerous occasions when my teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, would take time out to advice us and guide us in an attempt to make us better people.
On one occasion, I can recall him stating the importance of realising that Allah is Omnipresent. He stated that when one establishes this realisation then he would automatically stop or decrease sinning and would also be extra cautious in pleasing Allah.
However, many people tend to forget or overlook the fact that Allah is aware of all that we do and then after forgetting this we also overlook the fact that His wrath is severe and the favours He has done upon as uncountable.
Therefore, my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, gave us a short supplication to make every night before sleeping. A supplication that should be recited at least three times before sleeping and during the day.
With the recitation of this supplication, Insha Allah, we will be constantly reminded of Allah's quality of Omnipresence as well as supplicating to Him to remain in our thoughts at all times.
Following is the supplication:
May Allah Ta'ala always be on our minds throughout the day so that we can aim to please Him alone. Aameen.
On one occasion, I can recall him stating the importance of realising that Allah is Omnipresent. He stated that when one establishes this realisation then he would automatically stop or decrease sinning and would also be extra cautious in pleasing Allah.
However, many people tend to forget or overlook the fact that Allah is aware of all that we do and then after forgetting this we also overlook the fact that His wrath is severe and the favours He has done upon as uncountable.
Therefore, my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, gave us a short supplication to make every night before sleeping. A supplication that should be recited at least three times before sleeping and during the day.
With the recitation of this supplication, Insha Allah, we will be constantly reminded of Allah's quality of Omnipresence as well as supplicating to Him to remain in our thoughts at all times.
Following is the supplication:
اَللهُ حَاضِرِيْ - اَللهُ نَاظِرِيْ - اَللهُ مَعِيْ
"Allah is present with me - Allah is watching me - Allah is with me"
May Allah Ta'ala always be on our minds throughout the day so that we can aim to please Him alone. Aameen.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Advices on Seeking Knowledge
Whilst I was looking through some of my notes, I came across the notes for my first lesson with Maulana Anwar Narma Sahib for the lesson of Jalaalayn.
He gave us a few advices regarding knowledge and its importance which I would like to share:
1. If you give and dedicate yourself completely to knowledge only then will knowledge give you a little of itself.
2. Knowledge is a great blessing and gift of Allah which is given to only those whom Allah chooses.
3. Knowledge angers Shaytaan and makes his work of deceiving us more difficult.
4. It is such a blessing that all the living creatures on the earth, in the sky or in the sea make supplication for its seeker.Even the angels spread their wings for the seeker of knowledge.
5. Hadhrat Paalanpuri رحمه الله states that students of knowledge resemble the angels as they are constantly in their group; and the effects of being in such a group become apparent.
6. When a person seeks knowledge a fragrance emits from him which draws the angels closer to him; and when a person sins a smell is emitted which distances the angels.
7. Furthermore, he mentioned some advices for students seeking knowledge:
اخلاص نية - Sincere Intention.
It is essential for a student of knowledge to make the correct intention and to ask himself why he is seeking this knowledge; the reason should be none other than to gain the closeness of Allah.
ادب و احترام - Respect and Manners.
The student should of knowledge should feel happiness and joy in seeking knowledge as well as experience a connection and dedication. At the same time optimum respect and manners should be exercised; one should always remain in the state of purity (Wudhu) at all times.
It should be remembered با عدب با نصيب بے عدب بے نصيب - A person with respect will be successful and a person without respect will be unsuccessful. Hadhrat Abdul Qadir Jilani once came running out from the toilet due to finding a spot of ink on his finger. Imam Shafi'ee رحمه الله would turn the pages of his book so slowly so that his teacher would not be discomforted with the noise.
ترك گناه - Refraining from sins.
A student should always refrain from sinning. Imam Shafi'ee once complained to his teacher regarding his bad memory. In return his teacher advised him to refrain from sinning as sins are a darkness and cannot coincide with the Nur (divine light) of knowledge. It is also narrated that sinning results to a dark spot of dirt being placed on the heart, the result if which is that knowledge cannot be absorbed.
شكر - Being Thankful.
One should always be thankful for being chosen for the knowledge of Islam and being a student. Thankfulness increases the mercy and blessings of Allah whilst carelessness and ungratefulness could result to this blessing being taken away.
عمل - Actions.
It is essential that the student acts upon the knowledge he has acquired; for knowledge which not acted upon is in reality a source of Allah's anger and disappointment. Acting on knowledge also ensures the student will remember this knowledge.
زيل اور طلب - Craving and Desire for Knowledge.
A student should have a craving and desire for knowledge and should question regarding those things which he does not understand. There should be a zeal which makes the student search deeper into the knowledge acquired.
May Allah give us all the inclination and zeal to seek knowledge in the correct and advised manner. Aameen.
He gave us a few advices regarding knowledge and its importance which I would like to share:
1. If you give and dedicate yourself completely to knowledge only then will knowledge give you a little of itself.
2. Knowledge is a great blessing and gift of Allah which is given to only those whom Allah chooses.
3. Knowledge angers Shaytaan and makes his work of deceiving us more difficult.
4. It is such a blessing that all the living creatures on the earth, in the sky or in the sea make supplication for its seeker.Even the angels spread their wings for the seeker of knowledge.
5. Hadhrat Paalanpuri رحمه الله states that students of knowledge resemble the angels as they are constantly in their group; and the effects of being in such a group become apparent.
6. When a person seeks knowledge a fragrance emits from him which draws the angels closer to him; and when a person sins a smell is emitted which distances the angels.
7. Furthermore, he mentioned some advices for students seeking knowledge:
اخلاص نية - Sincere Intention.
It is essential for a student of knowledge to make the correct intention and to ask himself why he is seeking this knowledge; the reason should be none other than to gain the closeness of Allah.
ادب و احترام - Respect and Manners.
The student should of knowledge should feel happiness and joy in seeking knowledge as well as experience a connection and dedication. At the same time optimum respect and manners should be exercised; one should always remain in the state of purity (Wudhu) at all times.
It should be remembered با عدب با نصيب بے عدب بے نصيب - A person with respect will be successful and a person without respect will be unsuccessful. Hadhrat Abdul Qadir Jilani once came running out from the toilet due to finding a spot of ink on his finger. Imam Shafi'ee رحمه الله would turn the pages of his book so slowly so that his teacher would not be discomforted with the noise.
ترك گناه - Refraining from sins.
A student should always refrain from sinning. Imam Shafi'ee once complained to his teacher regarding his bad memory. In return his teacher advised him to refrain from sinning as sins are a darkness and cannot coincide with the Nur (divine light) of knowledge. It is also narrated that sinning results to a dark spot of dirt being placed on the heart, the result if which is that knowledge cannot be absorbed.
شكر - Being Thankful.
One should always be thankful for being chosen for the knowledge of Islam and being a student. Thankfulness increases the mercy and blessings of Allah whilst carelessness and ungratefulness could result to this blessing being taken away.
عمل - Actions.
It is essential that the student acts upon the knowledge he has acquired; for knowledge which not acted upon is in reality a source of Allah's anger and disappointment. Acting on knowledge also ensures the student will remember this knowledge.
زيل اور طلب - Craving and Desire for Knowledge.
A student should have a craving and desire for knowledge and should question regarding those things which he does not understand. There should be a zeal which makes the student search deeper into the knowledge acquired.
May Allah give us all the inclination and zeal to seek knowledge in the correct and advised manner. Aameen.
Monday, February 19, 2007
King of Hearts
Hadhrat would always relate to us poetry of great poets in the Arabic, Persian and Urdu language. His extensive knowledge and skill of representing lessons with examples related to one's daily life would, within moments, allow one to understand what message Hadhrat would be trying to get through to us.
Alhumdulillah, Hadhrat, through this method of teaching, has managed to explain complex matters in a matter of moments. His poetry and incidents in themselves prove his wisdom and insight.
On one occasion, during Dars-e-Bukhari, Hadhrat mentioned a couplet of Urdu poetry to explain to us one of our lessons. The poetry is as follows:
From this poetry Hadhrat explained many lessons to us; a few I will mention below as points:
1. Richness is of no use if you become the beggar to desires.
Meaning, when a person has riches in this world but is unable to enjoy it according to the Shari'ah and all that his riches leads to is greed then these riches are of no good because it makes him poorer than that beggar who is satisfied with his limited wealth.
2. The poor should not be looked down upon.
In this world, especially in today's society, the poor are looked down upon because they do not meet the standards of 'society'. They only have enough money for necessities and are devoid from the luxuries of life.
However, there are many glad tidings for the poor and those who are not wealthy; Allah will grant them an early entrance in to paradise as they will have less to answer for. Furthermore, the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم chose poverty over being wealthy.
May Allah give us all the understanding to realise the true value of things and to understand that richness is that with that person who appreciates what he has and his actions are for Allah and the Hereafter, for the Hereafter holds the best return and currency. Aameen.
Alhumdulillah, Hadhrat, through this method of teaching, has managed to explain complex matters in a matter of moments. His poetry and incidents in themselves prove his wisdom and insight.
On one occasion, during Dars-e-Bukhari, Hadhrat mentioned a couplet of Urdu poetry to explain to us one of our lessons. The poetry is as follows:
ملا کسی کو ہے کیا سوچیے امیری سے
دلوں کے شاہ اکثر غریب ہوتے ہیں
"What has anyone gained from being rich
The kings of heart are predominantly the poor"
دلوں کے شاہ اکثر غریب ہوتے ہیں
"What has anyone gained from being rich
The kings of heart are predominantly the poor"
From this poetry Hadhrat explained many lessons to us; a few I will mention below as points:
1. Richness is of no use if you become the beggar to desires.
Meaning, when a person has riches in this world but is unable to enjoy it according to the Shari'ah and all that his riches leads to is greed then these riches are of no good because it makes him poorer than that beggar who is satisfied with his limited wealth.
2. The poor should not be looked down upon.
In this world, especially in today's society, the poor are looked down upon because they do not meet the standards of 'society'. They only have enough money for necessities and are devoid from the luxuries of life.
However, there are many glad tidings for the poor and those who are not wealthy; Allah will grant them an early entrance in to paradise as they will have less to answer for. Furthermore, the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم chose poverty over being wealthy.
May Allah give us all the understanding to realise the true value of things and to understand that richness is that with that person who appreciates what he has and his actions are for Allah and the Hereafter, for the Hereafter holds the best return and currency. Aameen.
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Greed / Expectations (شُحٌّ)
The 'Alim course requires dedication and commitment; it is a course where the student has to realise and understand that the return is not measured in pounds and money but in rewards and blessings from Allah.
It is a course that requires understanding and detachment from the pleasures and desires of the world. A way of life that teaches you the value of things and what holds true value in this world and the hereafter.
This message would be put forward to us in many ways on many occasions. My respected teachers would always state that the purpose of this course was not to gain large sums of money but was to ensure that whatever we acquired was done so correctly and if that was the case Allah would automatically place Barakah (blessings) within such earnings.
Hadhrat would tell us, on several occasions, an incident that took place between a student and his teacher. Before I continue with the incident, I would like all the readers to remember and acknowledge that the methods and efforts and devotion in both teaching and studying today are no comparison to those many years back. In those days, especially in poorer countries, there would be hunger and struggle for teachers and students; limited sleep, occasional food, broken shelter and the hard floor would serve as a bed. During those times this incident took place:
There was once a dedicated teacher that would teach his students their daily lessons. It would be apparent to the students that the teacher was on limited income and due to this they could see the apparent signs of hunger, poverty and lack of sleep.
The students were also aware that the teacher would never accept any help from the students as it would seem as though they were obliged to aid him due to being his students. Therefore, this matter continued for some time until it got to a point where the teacher could no longer teach comfortably due to the pangs of hunger.
There was a bright and clever student from amongst other students who thought of a way in which he would be able to help his teacher. In effort to do so, he prepared a nice meal and walked past his teacher. The sight of the food made the teacher hungry and he desired within his heart to have that food. The student, after a few moments, approached the teacher with the food as a gift for him.
On seeing this the teacher was very pleased and was just about to being when his facial expressions changed. He thanked the student for the gift but explained that he was unable to take the food as it would be regarded as شُح (greed or expectation). He desired for the food and thereafter the taking of that food would be incorrect for him.
The student tried to compromise with his teacher but to no avail the teacher turned down his gift and asked him to leave. The student took leave but was clever to think of another method to complete the task he had begun.
He returned again several minutes later and approached his teacher and said, my respected teacher, when I presented this food to you before you had desire and expectations that it was for you that I had brought this food and thus you asked me to take leave. But once I left there was no desire in your heart neither did you expect me to return with this food. Therefore, now it would be correct for you to accept this gift.
After mentioning this episode our Hadhrat would advice us to never expect anything from anyone in this world, especially because of our position in the society.
He would also tell us to never accept as a gift an item for which we showed desire or need. For example, if on occasion we mentioned in general that, I really have a need for a red fountain pen, and then due to that someone presented us with that pen as a gift then this would also be incorrect to take.
The only expectation one should have is in Allah, for He provides for all and He is the one who knows the needs and the desires of the heart.
May Allah save us all from expectations from anyone but Him and may He grant us all His blessing by providing for us in times of need. Aameen.
It is a course that requires understanding and detachment from the pleasures and desires of the world. A way of life that teaches you the value of things and what holds true value in this world and the hereafter.
This message would be put forward to us in many ways on many occasions. My respected teachers would always state that the purpose of this course was not to gain large sums of money but was to ensure that whatever we acquired was done so correctly and if that was the case Allah would automatically place Barakah (blessings) within such earnings.
Hadhrat would tell us, on several occasions, an incident that took place between a student and his teacher. Before I continue with the incident, I would like all the readers to remember and acknowledge that the methods and efforts and devotion in both teaching and studying today are no comparison to those many years back. In those days, especially in poorer countries, there would be hunger and struggle for teachers and students; limited sleep, occasional food, broken shelter and the hard floor would serve as a bed. During those times this incident took place:
There was once a dedicated teacher that would teach his students their daily lessons. It would be apparent to the students that the teacher was on limited income and due to this they could see the apparent signs of hunger, poverty and lack of sleep.
The students were also aware that the teacher would never accept any help from the students as it would seem as though they were obliged to aid him due to being his students. Therefore, this matter continued for some time until it got to a point where the teacher could no longer teach comfortably due to the pangs of hunger.
There was a bright and clever student from amongst other students who thought of a way in which he would be able to help his teacher. In effort to do so, he prepared a nice meal and walked past his teacher. The sight of the food made the teacher hungry and he desired within his heart to have that food. The student, after a few moments, approached the teacher with the food as a gift for him.
On seeing this the teacher was very pleased and was just about to being when his facial expressions changed. He thanked the student for the gift but explained that he was unable to take the food as it would be regarded as شُح (greed or expectation). He desired for the food and thereafter the taking of that food would be incorrect for him.
The student tried to compromise with his teacher but to no avail the teacher turned down his gift and asked him to leave. The student took leave but was clever to think of another method to complete the task he had begun.
He returned again several minutes later and approached his teacher and said, my respected teacher, when I presented this food to you before you had desire and expectations that it was for you that I had brought this food and thus you asked me to take leave. But once I left there was no desire in your heart neither did you expect me to return with this food. Therefore, now it would be correct for you to accept this gift.
After mentioning this episode our Hadhrat would advice us to never expect anything from anyone in this world, especially because of our position in the society.
He would also tell us to never accept as a gift an item for which we showed desire or need. For example, if on occasion we mentioned in general that, I really have a need for a red fountain pen, and then due to that someone presented us with that pen as a gift then this would also be incorrect to take.
The only expectation one should have is in Allah, for He provides for all and He is the one who knows the needs and the desires of the heart.
May Allah save us all from expectations from anyone but Him and may He grant us all His blessing by providing for us in times of need. Aameen.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Value of Time
One of the many lessons taught to me by Hadhrat is the importance of time. On several occasions he would tell us that the saying "Time is gold" is totally incorrect. This saying gives time a value and furthermore gives a feeling that this value fluctuates regularly or that it can be gained once lost. However, this is not true in the case of time, for its value increases with every second that passes and every moment lost in one's life cannot never be acquired once again.
On occasions, Hadhrat would send us out of the classroom to call someone or send a necessary message to someone. However, we the remaining of the class would see how uneasy Hadhrat would feel on these occasions and would become restless. So much so, that in every few moments he would call out the person he sent so that he could continue his lesson.
At that moment, I had not realised why he would become so restless, especially after having himself sent out someone to do something. But along with time and his company, I have come to realise and understand that Hadhrat had the value of time and realised its true price tag.
May Allah bless him for his words of wisdom and deep insight. May Allah grant him a long and healthy life and allow us to continue to benefit from him and his words of wisdom. Aameen.
On occasions, Hadhrat would send us out of the classroom to call someone or send a necessary message to someone. However, we the remaining of the class would see how uneasy Hadhrat would feel on these occasions and would become restless. So much so, that in every few moments he would call out the person he sent so that he could continue his lesson.
At that moment, I had not realised why he would become so restless, especially after having himself sent out someone to do something. But along with time and his company, I have come to realise and understand that Hadhrat had the value of time and realised its true price tag.
May Allah bless him for his words of wisdom and deep insight. May Allah grant him a long and healthy life and allow us to continue to benefit from him and his words of wisdom. Aameen.
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