Contact List

Whilst talking to my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, he was mentioning how he had lost his contacts list on his phone and how he was so dependant on the numbers that were stored on his phone.

To resolve this issue, and to ensure that it did not reoccur, he came out with the solution of backing his phone’s contact list on to his computer as well as his email account.

Whilst mentioning the same thing to some other students gave an amazing thought provoking comparison to the Hereafter. He said,

It is amazing as to how dependant we are on our worldly contacts list. We go through many means to ensure that it is safeguarded and backed up. Yet have we ever thought about the contacts that we will require in the Hereafter? What will happen to us on that Day if we have lost all our contacts?

This made me ponder over the many times my Shaykh and respected teachers have mentioned the need to keep pious company and to attend the Majalis (gatherings) of the ‘Ulamaa (Scholars).

In this world they are a source of guidance and in the Hereafter we will be indebted to them for their guidance. They will be our contacts in the Hereafter and Insha Allah our constant contact with them in this world we will be our safeguarding and backup of our contacts so that we are not stranded without any contacts in the Hereafter.

May Allah give us all the inclination to occupy the gatherings of the pious and to take heed of their guidance and advices. Aameen.

If we were to glance at our phone’s contact list… How many contacts would we find of pious people? If we don’t have many, how often is it that we keep in touch with such personalities?

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Collaborating Sites

Over time, I have begun to struggle in updating my blogs due to time constraints and becoming occupied with other commitments.

I also have a number of blogs which takes up a considerable amount of time to update on a regular basis.

I have therefore, with the advice of some friends, readers and fellow bloggers reverted back to my wordpress blog, zain121.wordpress.com.

I am consolidating all my blogs and publishing my posts at one central site. This will allow me to focus my attention at one site and therefore enable to post regularly.

However, at the same time, I will maintain the theme of my current blogs which were kept separate for this very reason.

In zain121.blogspot.com I was concentrating on life experiences and lessons learnt from them as well as the thoughts that run through my mind and remind me of my Creator.

In simplyislam.blogspot.com I introduced a range of educational Islamic material that people could refer to and benefit from.

And finally, zainulabedeen.blogspot.com was a collection of teachings and experiences from my days of studying at Darul Uloom (Islamic Institution) as well as the lessons I learnt I also include the words of wisdoms from my respected teachers and their biographies.

Also included on the wordpress site will be my collections from my zain121.freeforums.org site. This will include event notifications, book reviews, biographies, poetry and various other topics.

All in all, I pray that this is a positive step forward in the collaboration of the various different themes I have mentioned and that it proves to benefit me and its readers.

If you are receiving subscriptions from this site, please add a new subscription to www.zain121.wordpress.com for all future posts.

Life is Like A Balloon

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

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.

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.

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

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:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا تُوبُوا إِلَى اللَّهِ تَوْبَةً نَصُوحًا

"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:

The path upon which you are treading is that of Turkey,
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...

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"

[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 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.

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

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:

1. Praise should not be for the sake of merely pleasing another individual and therefore it should be sincere from the heart.


2. 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.

Alhumdulillah, this example, which has also been given by my Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib حفظه الله, made me think of a few points which Shaykh used to advise us with:

1. Refrain from praising people in their presence as this is forbidden by our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم.


2. 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.


3. 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.

May Allah give us all the correct understanding of Deen and save us from the evil disease of pride and arrogance which stem from the praise and criticisms of people. Aameen.

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 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.

Make your Food Salaah

Whilst is Darul Uloom we came across a Hadith which stated along the lines that if Salaah time due and a person was hungry then he should eat first and the same for a person who needed to relieve himself from the call of nature.

The Hadith was explained in some detail whilst the conclusion was that you should not make your Salaah your food.

Meaning that a hungry person who is offering Salaah would make his Salaah his food by constantly thinking of eating and awaiting the end of the Salaah so he could fulfil his need to eat. Therefore, his entire Salaah would primarily be without concentration and his attention would have been on food.

However, some after graduating, whilst in the company of my respected teacher, Maulana Imran Sahib, this Hadith was brought up and Maulana Imran Sahib gave me an explanation, whilst quoting someone, which shows another perspective and the true purpose of this Hadith.

He said:

'Do not make your Salaah food but instead make your food Salaah'

This was in response to those people who take this Hadith to avoid offering Salaah whilst they are hungry and hence giving food preference and priority.

Indeed our Salaah should not be an opportunity to think of our meal and need to eat but at the same time when we are asked to eat it should be such that our food should become Salaah...

With every morsel that we take our attention and concern should be of Salaah and therefore our food becomes Salaah.

This Hadith has been stated for those people who are extremely hungry and cannot wait any longer, or that waiting will cause distractions within their Salaah. However, whilst resolving to eat first, one should eat enough to suffice him to offer Salaah.

Therefore, in such cases one's food should become his Salaah and not vice versa.

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:

تمہاری ‍زندگی ایک ممتاز ‍زندگی ہوني چاہۓ

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.

4th Ramadhan 1429

Hadith 2
كَانَ النَّبيُّ صَلّى اللهُ عليه و سلم يُعْجِبُهُ الْحَلْوَاءُ و الْعَسَلُ

Hadhrat Aishah رضي الله عنها mentions this Hadith which means:

‘The Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم was fond of sweet dishes and honey'

Imam Bukhari رحمه الله has a specific chapter in his Sahih, al-Bukhari, by the name of باب الدواء بالعسل (chapter of seeking medication with honey). And as is the case of all the chapters, he begins the chapter with a relevant verse from the Qur’an:

فِيهِ شِفَاءٌ لِلنَّاسِ

'Within it (honey) is a cure for mankind'

[Surah Nahl:69]

This is just a part of the sixty-ninth verse of the Surah. The name of the Surah is Nahl which means a bee. In the previous verse Allah states:

وَأَوْحَى رَبُّكَ إِلَى النَّحْلِ

'And your Lord inspired the bee'

[Surah Nahl:68]

The verse states the word وحي which is used for revelation as well as to inspire and many other meanings. It is as though the bee also talks and converses with Allah سبحانه و تعالى.

Insha Allah we will continue from here tomorrow as it is Thursday and there is also the collection for the Masjid to take place.

These are just a few words we mentioned as an excuse to present to Allah in order to beg from Him. You may have seen in third world countries such as India and Pakistan that there are beggars on the street doing many different things to attract the attention of the passersby. Some take glasses in the hand and clank them together whilst reciting some poetry; in reality they are not poets and neither is their poetry of any value. However, this is just an excuse to get present from the passerby, after which they say, for the sake of Allah give us something.

In the same manner we are also beggars who say a few words in front of Allah to acquire His attention and after which we beg Allah to accept a few words and forgive us. If the people of the world will give to a beggar then won’t Allah سبحانه و تعالى grant these beggars anything? Of course He will through His infinite mercy.

I end my talk with this and advice everyone to increase their recitation of Durood, especially tonight as it is the night of Thursday and this has been encouraged. A very beautiful Durood that we should include is:

اللّهُمَّ صَلِّي عَلَى نَبِيِّ الرَّحْمَة

'O Allah, send salutations and blessings upon the Prophet of mercy'

May Allah accept all that has been said and heard. Aameen.

3rd Ramadhan 1429

Hadith 1
مَا أنْزَلَ الله دَاءً إلاَّ أنْزَلَ لَهُ شِفَاءً

For the past couple of days we have been discussing the above Hadith in which our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم clearly states that there is no illness without a cure. I have explained various different issues on this Hadith during the past couple of days.

This Hadith and many of its kind make it known to us that seeking treatment for any disease is not opposing the idea of Tawakkul (concrete trust in Allah). Some people become extreme in Sufism (spiritualism) and have a make-up belief that seeking treatment denotes that a man does not have trust in Allah and therefore had to resort to medication. This is a completely wrong notion and should be avoided.

It is necessary to always remain in the boundaries of Shari’ah; and to seek medication in within the boundaries of Shari’ah as well as Tawakkul. Even within the seeking of treatment there is the element of Tawakkul; if Allah wishes then this treatment will benefit and cure me and if Allah does not wish it then there is no possibility of recovery from any ailment.

Another simple example to explain Tawakkul is the matter of eating and drinking; when we feel hungry we eat and when we feel thirst we drink; neither of these activities defies or contradicts our trust in Allah. These are just means which even our beloved صلى الله عليه و سلم took aid of.

These means were used by our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم in order to educate the Ummah. On the occasion of Hijrah (migration) our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم took refuge in the cave whilst hiding from the enemies; this was also a means of safety which the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم took aid of.

The same applies to working; a person struggles to earn a Halal (permissible) livelihood to sustain himself and his family. This is not only a means but is also a necessity upon each person.

The scholars have stated that to seek treatment from minor and major illnesses and Mustahab (encourage) and Mandoob (recommended). The person who seeks treatment for any illness or disease, with the right intention, will be rewarded.

Imam Shafi’ee and Imam Ahmed ibn Hanbal رحمهم الله have declared the seeking of treatment as Wajib (obligatory) for the simple reason that this body and soul is the property and Amaanah (belonging) of Allah; and no individual has the right to mistreat or neglect his body or soul. It is for this reason that suicide has also been made Haraam (forbidden) and its punishment is so severe that the person will continue to injure himself in the manner which he committed suicide. So if a person was to kill him self by drinking poison then he will continue to drink poison until the day of judgement and if a person was to commit suicide by stabbing himself then he will continue to, and experience the pain of, stabbing himself until he is resurrected. May Allah save us all. Aameen.

Therefore, true Tawakkul is to place your trust in Allah after having made all the arrangements and effort from your own self.

On the topic of Tawakkul I recall an incident which took place; a scholar once came to a town and gave a speech on Tawakkul to such an extent that one of the listeners was inspired by his speech. He therefore went into seclusion to submit himself to Allah whilst having complete trust in Him. However, his trust was flawed from the beginning as he chose to seclude himself in such an area where there was a well and shade of trees; a place where people would frequent and have picnics. Nevertheless, he sat there began his ‘Tawakkul’. After some time a person came and took out his lunch; seeing the person staring at him he was irritated and therefore took his food and walked away. After some while another person came who did the same thing; seeing that this man was staring at him he quickly ate his food and went away.

Now it was starting to get late and another person came have his food where this person had decided to sit. When this third person sat down to eat the man who was observing Tawakkul decided to do something as he knew there was no possibility of someone coming after this; therefore he started coughing and clearing his throat. The person who was eating saw this said, come and eat if you must but stop coughing, to which the person jumped at the chance.

After this incident, the person went back to the scholar and told him, ‘the talk you did on Tawakkul was very inspiring, but you forgot one thing, it should be توكل مع تنحنح (Trust in Allah with the aid of coughing).

As a poet rightfully says:

لَيْسَ لِلإنْسَانِ إِلا مَا سَعَى كو ياد ركہ
كر توّكل پهر تيري تدبير ہي تيري تقدير ہے

'And remember the verse, for man is only that for which he strives,
then striving will be your regarded as your fate'

So my respected brothers, this is not the name of Tawakkul and its reality is far from this. We should therefore take aid from the words of the Qur’an and treat ourselves with it. In fact, if there is no fear of Fitnah (sinning and immorality) and we cannot find a person of the same gender to treat us then we can acquire treatment from the opposite gender. But this is if there is no fear of Fitnah, which is usually the case as a person is worried about his health, life and treatment. This is for the sole reason that the aim is to save your life.

In summary, it should be understood that there is no harm in seeking treatment for any disease. Moreover, the treatment should be commenced early and from the beginning of the treatment we should have hope in Allah keep our attention towards him by continuously reciting Tasbeeh, the first Kalimah etc.

Furthermore, if there is a bodily pain or illness then our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم has also given us a method and Du’a to recite:

1. First of all the right hand should be taken and placed on the area where there is pain.

2. Thereafter, بسم الله (Bismillah) should be recited three times.

It should be only بسم الله and not the complete بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم. It should be remembered that whatever words our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم has used it is those words we must also use. On one occasion our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم taught a Sahabi رضي الله عنه a Du’a in which the Sahabi رضي الله عنه replaced the word نبي with رسول, which is not a major change as our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم has both of these statuses. However, our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم refused the Sahabi رضي الله عنه from doing this and to use his exact words.

Therefore, the amount should be the same and also the words should be that as instructed.

3. Then finally the following Du’a should be recited seven times:

أعُوْذُ بِعِزَّةِ اللهِ وَ قُدْرَتِهِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا أجِدُ وَ حَاضِرُ

“I seek refuge in the status of Allah and in His power from that evil which I am experiencing and that which is present”

Whilst reciting this Du’a one should keep a count with his right hand which he has placed over the concerned area.

It should be noted that this Du’a should be commenced from the day one fears an illness or feels a pain. This is what turning our attention to Allah means. Thereafter, let the x-rays and operations take place but remember to pray this Du’a continuously. Insha Allah it will be of great benefit.

May Allah give us all Shifaa (cure from diseases). Aameen.

Some may say, ‘why are you scared?’ We all have to return to Allah one day or another and the pious one is he who awaits the meeting of Allah. But it should be remembered that this eagerness to meet Allah is created by Allah alone; and a servant is granted this eagerness prior to his death, either hours before, days before or months before. But it is not something that is granted to a servant a long time before his death.

May Allah give us all the understanding. Aameen.

2nd Ramadhan 1429

Hadith 1
مَا أنْزَلَ الله دَاءً إلاَّ أنْزَلَ لَهُ شِفَاءً

Continuing with yesterday’s Hadith, it is important to note what the Muhadditheen say in regards to this Hadith. The scholars have clearly mentioned that, like all other things in this world, it is necessary to search for this cure and شفاء in order to acquire it. It is a different matter that some a blessed with a cure whilst others are note. We have seen this on many occasions where two people have the same disease and take the same medication; whilst one is cured the other remains uncured, this is the wisdom of Allah.

May Allah save us all from the trials and difficulties of illnesses and diseases and may He give us Sabr (perseverance) if any illness is written for us. Aameen.

It has come in other Ahadeeth to the meaning that the seeking of a cure and remedy for one’s disease and illness is Mustahab and even Sunnah. Therefore, one should not remain negligent in seeking a remedy for his illness.

Hafidh Ibn Hajar states in his famous commentary of Saheeh Bukhari, Fathul Bari, that undertaking medication does not necessitate that the person becomes healthy regardless of whether the remedy was stated by our beloved Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم; only what Allah سبحانه و تعالى has decreed will take place.

Hadhat Jabir رضي الله عنه has also known to have a narration with the words باذن الله (with the will of Allah) stated within the Hadeeth. Therefore, the ailment will be cured only through the will of Allah.

This is similar to that statement of Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani رحمه الله when he said قم باذن الله.

The episode takes place when a child enrols at the Madrasah of the Shaikh and an old women comes to visit him. She sees the child eating Daal (curry) and dried Roti (chapatti) and saw that he has become thin. She then approaches the Shaikh only to see that he is eating barbequed chicken.

I mentioned this term barbeque; this term did not exist in the earlier errors but its reality and existence is even in the Qur’an. In the twelfth Juz Allah states whilst relating the story of Hadhrat Ibrahim عليه السلام:

وَ لَقَدْ جَآءَتْ رُسُلُنَآ اِبْرَاهِيْمَ بِالْبُشْرِے قَالُوْا سَلاَمًا.
قَالَ سَلمٌ فَمَا لَبِثَ اَنْ جَآءَ بِعِجْلٍ حَنِيْذٍ

“And indeed Our Messengers (angels) came to Ibrahim (عليه السلام) with the glad tidings; they said, Peace! He replied, Peace; and made no delay in bringing a roasted calf.”

[هود - 11:69]

When the angels refused to eat Hadhrat Ibrahim عليه السلام became worried, as in those days if a stranger cam to cause you harm he would not eat from your house; in today’s time people continue eating from you and causing you harm. Nevertheless, the angels informed Ibrahim عليه السلام not to fear them as they did not eat due to being angels.

To continue from where we left; the old women upon seeing the two contrasting situations she asks the Shaikh of when her child would be able to eat chicken like the Shaikh as he has become weak. Upon hearing this statement the Shaikh said قم باذن الله, stand with the will of Allah, to the remains of the chicken. It was at that very moment, with the will of Allah, the remains of the chicken reconstructed and became a chicken once more. The Shaikh then continued by saying, when your son is able to reach this rank then he shall have his fair share of chicken; upon seeing this the old women left.

Time is coming to an end, let me finish by saying that when the King keeps you in his service then don’t boast about being in service to the King; instead show gratitude towards the King for keeping you in his service. The same is with Allah, if we are in His service let us show gratitude towards Him.

May Allah accept our efforts and the time we have spent listening (reading) His words. Aameen

1st Ramadhan 1429

Hadith 1
مَا أنْزَلَ الله دَاءً إلاَّ أنْزَلَ لَهُ شِفَاءً

On the first night of Ramadhan, Hadhrat mentioned that there would be a gathering after Taraweeh for the duration of fifteen minutes to begin with. The topic would be Ahadith and the aim would be to complete forty Ahadith during the month of Ramadhan.

As an encouragement Hadhrat mentioned the following Hadeeth:

عن زيد بن ثابت قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول:
نَضَّرَ اللهُ اِمْرَأً سَمِعَ مِنَّا حَدِيْثًا فَحَفِظَهُ حَتّى يُبَلِّغَهُ غَيْرَهُ

[سنن ترمذي]

The Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم has stated that ‘May Allah illuminate the face of a person who hears my Hadith, memorises it, understands it and teaches it’.

This is a Hadith which becomes true for that person who does the work of Hadith and this is not restricted to the teaching of Hadith but also for that person who listens to it.

On this note, let us begin the first Hadith and make an intention to complete forty Ahadith during the month of Ramadhan for we will be rewarded upon our intention also.

بـــــســــــم الله الرحـــمـــان الرحـــيـــم

عَنْ ‏ ‏أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ ‏ ‏رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ ‏‏عَنْ النَّبِيِّ ‏ ‏صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ ‏ ‏قَالَ
‏مَا أَنْزَلَ اللَّهُ دَاءً إِلَّا أَنْزَلَ لَهُ شِفَاءً ‏

‘Allah has not sent down any disease without its cure’

This Hadith informs us that there is s no disease without a cure. It is different matter that a person is not granted relief from his disease or the fact that man has not yet acquired the cure. For example, at one time tuberculosis (TB) was a life threatening disease which was ‘incurable’ and the same was true for malaria. However, now these diseases have become common and their threat has become minor as the cure for them is known and available. In today’s era the disease of cancer is a great example; once a life-taking disease that had no cure or any hope of survival is now very close to becoming curable through various treatments such as chemotherapy.

This is the statement of our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم which he made over fourteen hundred years ago.

The study of medicine is known in Arabic as طِب and there are two types of medicine:

1. Spiritual Medication (Roohaani)
2. Physical Medication (Jismani / Abdaan)

1. Spiritual Medication

Every prophet عليهم السلام came as a spiritual doctor to cleanse people off spiritual illnesses through the religion of Islam. Even our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم was sent for this.

2. Physical Medication

However, along with spiritual medication our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم was also an expert in physical medication which related to the human body. This was another speciality of our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم and one of his miracles.

Throughout the Saheeh Bukhari examples are found of our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم giving advice on treatment illnesses and diseases through honey, olives and other items.


The fundamental and essential medication and treatment is that of the soul as this is what remains with a person even after his body is buried and decayed.

In Fathul Bari, a famous commentary on Saheeh Bukhari, Imam Ibn Hajar رحمه الله has written many pages on this topic and chapter of طب and medication. This has also been the case with many other scholars who have shown in depth knowledge on the topic of medication.

Medication for the Bewitched

For example, one narration states that a person who has been bewitched then his cure is to take the fruit of the Lote Tree (Nettle Tree, Celtis Australis) and crush it with stones to an extent where it can be diluted with water; the water should then be poured over the person who has been bewitched and it will cure him.

When I was in Malawi I would wake up and see these trees daily; it was a time when Maulana Imran and Maulana Ahmed Ali were small children.

Time has come to an end and I would like to remind everyone that if you cannot wake up for Tahajjud then perform two Rakaats of Salaah prior to sleeping with the intention of Tahajjud and Insha Allah you will receive the reward of Tahajjud.

May Allah accept our efforts. Aameen

Turning to Allah & the 15th Night of Sha'ban

Another episode which my Hadhrat chose to mention during his talk on the 15th of Sha’ban is the one that follows. As mentioned previously, Hadhrat mentioned the reality of the 15th night of Sha’ban by stressing the importance of forgiveness and its power to convert a sinner into the friend of Allah within a blink of an eyelid.

The following incident is an indication of Allah’s love and mercy and how His slaves and creation should turn to Him at all times.

Hafidh ibn al-Qayyim رحمه الله is a great scholar whom many great Muffasir and Muhaddith quote and refer too.

He states that once I was going past a village when I saw a child being thrown out the house by his mother and he was being scolded at and receiving a good beaten. The scholars have even mentioned that this boy was the age of eight or nine. The mother threw the child out and closed the door on him telling him not to return. Hafidh Ibn Qayyim رحمه الله states that when I saw this I felt that I should interfere but then decided to watch what the child decides to do and how the matter continues.

The child remained in the veranda of the house and thereafter he strayed a little down the street and returned back to the house. The child seemed to be tired and therefore he placed his head on the doorstep of the house and fell asleep. After a short time the mother came out to see her son sleeping on the doorstep; she again kicked him and told him to leave and then again closed the door.

Hafidh Ibn Qayyim رحمه الله states that he continued to watch what happens to the child and how the child and mother both respond to the incident that was occurring. After a few moments, the mother once again opened the door to find the child still sitting there. Seeing him the mother asked him, have you not left yet? The child replied, O mother, when you first threw me out I wandered around for a while thinking that what is there at home apart from shelter and food and therefore I realised I could get a good job and fulfil these requirements. I wandered in the streets looking at jobs that I could possibly acquire. However, I could not find the motherhood which I find here neither the love of my mother or her mercy. Hearing this the mother burst into tears and took her son in her arms.

After seeing this incident Hafidh Ibn Qayyim رحمه الله says O you who believe in Allah and the mercy of Allah; that Allah who is so forgiving and so merciful. If you leave His doorstep then you will remain wondering around being pushed around from here to here. Now is the time, hold steadfast to his doorstep by seeking His forgiveness.

This is the reality of the 15th Night of Sha’ban.

May Allah give us all the inclination and strength to hold steadfast to His doorstep and through the medium of a sincere forgiveness. Aameen.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mufti Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari

Mufti Muhammad Sahib is my teacher in Zaadut Taalibeen, Sunan Ibn Majah, Hidaayah, and Sharh Manzoomatul Bayqooniyyah. He is a scholar of great calibre and of a sensitive nature. He explained the lessons of Fiqh in great detail ensuring that each ruling was understood and various incidents occurring in today's society which were related to the ruling. His nature in class was unique; an understanding, relaxed and open teacher who enjoyed discussions and questions, especially those that indicated that the student was bright, alert and keen to learn. His sensitive nature challenged the individual to draw a line between being open and relaxed and being respectful; a skill and manner which is essential for a student of knowledge.

He is the youngest son of my Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib and has a great zeal for knowledge which has taken him to travel many countries for the sake of acquiring knowledge, these include Syria, and Pakistan.

He dedicates his time towards the work of Deen through various means; he teaches at the Darul Uloom, gives various speeches across the United Kingdom as well as abroad and allocates a great portion of his time into the service of people through the Darul Iftaa.

Alhumdulillah, being in close contact with him allows me increase my knowledge through his extensive reading and experience from the Darul Iftaa and various other sources. I feel indebted towards him, as I do towards all my other teachers, for being a part of my life and shaping my charachter and contributing towards the present me.

May Allah bless him and grant him Jannatul Firdaus. May he increase him in knowledge and in all aspects. I pray to Allah that I can continue to benefit from the knowledge of Mufti Muhammad Sahib for as long as Allah has granted me life. Aameen.

Further Biography.

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

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.