How could a Muslim celebrate Christmas and New Year’s? – By Shaykh Uthaymeen

Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen (rahimahullaah) :

Then what is worse than that; is some Muslims celebrate the New Year, and they glorify it and venerate it, and it is connected to the religious occasion of the Christians; which is; what? The birthday of the Messiah Eesa ibn Maryam peace be upon him. Thus celebrating New Year’s Eve, yes, in relation with the birth of the Messiah; this is rejoicing with their religious rites and practices. And rejoicing with kufr practices—if the person who is pleased with this is safe from disbelief—then it is as ibn Al Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him said in his book, ‘the ruling on the dhimmi’ it is more severe than being pleased with drinking alcohol and worshiping the cross.

Thus the affair is very dangerous O brothers. It is not permissible for the person to celebrate Christmas; if he is a Muslim. And it is not permissible for him to congratulate them for this holiday; if he is a Muslim. And it is not permissible for him to respond to this greeting if they congratulate him for this holiday; if he is a Muslim.

Subhan’Allah! Shall we congratulate them for a holiday which is considered as a religious practice? And is this anything other than being pleased with disbelief? But most of those who congratulate them do not intend to exalt their religion or practices, but rather they only intend what; to be courteous. And this is incorrect.

If someone says; I am courteous to them because they are courteous to me and they congratulate me for Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha. We say: Alhamdulillah. If they congratulate you with Eid Al-Adha and Eid Al-Fitr, then they have congratulated you for legislated holiday, which Allah has made for His slaves. And it is mandatory for Eid Al-Adha and Eid Al-Fitr to be their holidays, because it is obligatory upon them to accept Islam. But if you congratulate them for Christmas then you are congratulating them for a holiday which Allah has not designated as a holiday.

Thus Christmas has no basis in history and it has no basis in the religious legislation. Eesa ibn Maryam did not command them to establish this holiday. Thus it is either that, which was entered into the religion of the Messiah as innovation and misguidance, or it was prescribed in the legislation of Eesa ibn Maryam but it has been abrogated by the legislation of Islam. Therefore it has no basis by any estimation. Because if we said it is from the innovation of the Christians and it is not from their legislation; then it is misguidance. And if we said it is from their legislation, then it has been abrogated; and to worship Allah with an abrogated religion is misguidance; thus it is misguidance by any estimation. And because it is misguidance, how is it befitting for me—while I am a Muslim—to congratulate them for it?!

And we have answered the issue of them congratulating us for our Eid and us not congratulating them for their holiday because our Eid has been legislated by Allah the Exalted; while their holiday is not legislated. This is because it has either been fabricated in their legislation or abrogated by our legislation.  Thus it has no basis in any regard.

Translated by Rasheed ibn Estes Barbee
Masjid Tawheed wa Sunnah

Seeking Refuge From Evils

The Reality Of Thunder

Great wives if the Prophets

by Imâm al-Madîna al-Munawarrah 'Abdul Muhsin Ibn Muhammad al-Qâsim

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All praise is due to Allaah, Lord of all the worlds. Peace and blessings be upon the Messenger, his household and companions.

Fellow Muslims! Fear Allaah as He should be feared. Fear of Allaah is a reminder for His devoted servants and it is safety from His punishment. Dear brethren! Muslim woman attains prosperity by following the path of the best women who lived in the best generation and got nurtured in the house of Prophethood. They are women of high status and outstanding estimation. Allaah praises them in the Qur’aan where He says,

“O wives of the Prophet! You are not like any other women. If you keep your duty (to Allaah), then be not soft in speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease (of hypocrisy, or evil desire for adultery) should be moved with desire, but speak in an honourable manner.” (Al-Ahzaab 33:32)

They are blessed and great women. Foremost among them is that intelligent and wise woman, Khadeejah bint Khuwaylid, the religious and noble woman. She grew up upon virtuous characters and manners. She was chaste and gracious. She was known among Makkah womenfolk as ‘the pure woman’. The Messenger of Allaah married her and she became an excellent wife for him. She supported him with her life, wealth and wisdom. During his sorrowful days, he would seek shelter with her and confide in her.

When the first revelation came to him he went to his wife frightened, and he said, “O Khadeejah, I fear for myself.” But Khadeejah responded to his fear with a firm heart. She told him, “By Allaah, Allaah will not disgrace you.”

Islaam started in her house and she was the first person to embrace it. Ibn al-Atheer said, “Khadeejah was the first person to embrace Islaam, according to the consensus of the Muslims. No man or woman ever embraced Islaam before her.”

At the beginning of the Prophet’s mission, he was faced with many tribulations. But she stood by him compassionately and supported him with her outstanding intelligence. Whenever he heard any undesirable words from the people and came to her, she would strengthen and console him. The Prophet said about her,

“She believed in me when people denied me, she trusted me when people belied me; she supported me with her wealth when people refused to support me and I was blessed with children by her when I was denied children by other women.” (Ahmad)

Khadeejah was a great and dutiful wife to her husband and an affectionate mother to her children. She gave birth to all the Prophet’s children except Ibraaheem. She was extremely good-mannered. She never argued with her husband and she never bothered him. The Messenger of Allaah said,

“Angel Jibreel came to me and said: ‘Give Khadeejah the good tidings that she will have a palace made of hollowed pearls in Paradise and there will be neither noise nor any trouble in it.’” (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim)

As-Suhaylee said, “She was given the glad tiding of a house in Paradise because she never raised her voice over that of the Prophet and she never bothered him.” She was pleased with her Lord and Allaah is pleased with her.

The Prophet said, “Angel Jibreel told me:

‘When you come to Khadeejah, convey my Lord’s greetings to her and mine as well.” (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim)

Ibn al-Qayyim said, “Khadeejah was the only woman known to have this honour.”

Allaah loved Khadeejah, so did His angels. The Messenger of Allaah also loved her so much. He said,

“I am blessed with her love.”  (Muslim)

Whenever the Prophet remembered her, he would mention her in glowing attributes and would show gratitude for her companionship. ‘Aaishah said, “Whenever the Messenger of Allaah remembered Khadeejah, he would never be tired of praising her and invoking Allaah’s forgiveness for her. He appreciated her love and sincerity and he would honour her friends after her death.” ‘Aaishah said, “

He would often slaughter a goat, cut it into parts and distribute it to Khadeejah’s friends. And whenever I asked him, ‘Are there no other women in the world except Khadeejah?’ He would say, ‘She was this and that and she bore me children.’” (Al-Bukhaaree)

After her death, Allaah’s Messenger heard her sister’s voice. He them became sad and said, “She reminded me of Khadeejah.”

Khadeejah was perfect in her religion, wisdom and conduct. The Prophet said,

“Many men attained perfection, but only three women attained it: Maryam, daughter of ‘Imraan [Jesus’ mother], Aasiyah, Pharaoh’s wife and Khadeejah bint Khuwaylid.” (Ibn Mardooyah)

She preceded the women of this Ummah in righteousness, nobility and splendour. Allaah’s Messenger said,

“Maryam [Mary, Jesus’ mother] was the best woman of her time, and the best woman of this Ummah is Khadeejah.” (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim)

Khadeejah was righteous and made her home righteous. She reaped the fruit of her labour and she and her daughter became the best of the women of the worlds in Paradise. The Prophet said,

“The best f the women of Paradise are: Khadeejah, Faatimah, Maryam [Mary] and ‘Aasiyah.” (Ahmad and An-Nasaa’ee)

She occupied a great place in the Prophet’s heart. He did not marry any woman before her neither did he marry any woman or have any concubine while she was still with him until she died. He was extremely distressed with her death. Adh-Dhahabee said, “Khadeejah was intelligent, gracious, religious, chaste and noble. She is one of the dwellers of Paradise.”

Dear brethren! Another great woman of the house of Prophethood is ‘Aaishah, daughter of Aboo Bakr. She was born in the house of truthfulness and piety and she was nurtured in the house of eemaan. Her mother was a companion and her sister, Asmaa, Lady of the Two Girdles and her brother were also companions. Her father is the truthful man of this Ummah. She grew up in the house of knowledge, for her father was the erudite scholar of Quraysh and the highest authority in genealogy. Allaah endowed her with outstanding intelligence and a sharp memory. Ibn Katheer said, “No nation has produced a woman as sharp, knowledgeable, fluent and intelligent as ‘Aaishah.” She excelled the women of her race in knowledge and wisdom. She was blessed with understanding of Islaamic jurisprudence and memorisation of poetry. She was in fact, a treasure of Islaamic sciences. Adh-Dhahabee said, “The most knowledgeable woman of this Ummah is ‘Aaishah. I do not know any woman from the Ummah of Muhammad or from any other nation more knowledgeable than her.”

She excelled all women with her virtues and beautiful companionship. Allaah’s Messenger said,

“The superiority of ‘Aaishah over other women is like the superiority of thareed [1] over other kinds of food.” (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim)

The Messenger of Allaah loved her; and he did not love anything but that which is pleasant.

‘Amr ibn al-‘Aas once asked Allaah’s Messenger,

“Who is most beloved to you of all people?” The Prophet answered, “‘Aaishah.” And he said, “And among men?” And he answered, “Her father.” (Al-Bukhaaree)

She was the only virgin the Messenger of Allah married, and the revelation did not come to him in other woman’s blanket but hers. She was chaste and devoted to her Lord. She did not go out of her house except in the night so that men could not see her. She said of herself, “We did not use to go out but only in the night.” This is in line with Allaah’s instruction,

“And stay in your houses, and do not display yourselves like that of the times of ignorance.” (Al-Ahzaab 33:33)

Al-Qurtubee said, “There are resplendent evidences in Islaam that require women to stay at home and not to go out except when necessary. And when it becomes necessary for them to go out they should do so with complete covering of themselves and their adornments.”

Allaah puts whomever He wills to test, and the test is in accordance with one’s eemaan. ‘Aaishah was slandered while she was only twelve. She said, narrating her ordeal in this incidence, “I wept and I could not sleep and I just kept weeping until my parents thought that my liver would burst from weeping.” She said that the trial was so severe that she would weep but could not find any more tears to shed.

Ibn Katheer said, “So Allaah decided to defend her honour, and He revealed ten verses to absolve her. This elevated her status and these verses were recited and they shall continue to be recited till the Day of Resurrection. Allaah testified that she was one of the purest women and promised her forgiveness and a generous provision.

She spent nights caring for the Prophet in his illness until he died in her apartment, on her day and in her bosom.

Sawdah bint Zam‘ah is another of the Prophet’s noble wives. She was pure-hearted and the first woman he married after the death of Khadeejah. She was his only wife for about three years. She was gracious and noble, and the purity of her heart manifested when she gave her days with the Prophet to ‘Aaishah out of consideration for her husband’s feelings and in order to earn reward of her Lord.

Another great woman in the Prophet’s household is Hafsah, daughter of ‘Umar. She was given to observing prayers in the night and performing supererogatory fasting. She grew up in a house in which the cause of Islaam was supported and truth was given prominence. Seven members of her family participated in the battle of Badr. ‘Aaishah said of her, “She was my only competitor among the Prophet’s wives.”

There is also Zaynab bint Khuzaymah al-Hilaaliyyah who was very generous and hastened to perform righteous deeds. She lived with Allaah’s Messenger for only two months and then died.

Another distinguished woman in the house of Prophethood is Umm Habeebah daughter of Aboo Sufyaan, the emigrant and the one who was given to performing meritorious deeds. She was the closest to the Prophet of his wives in terms of blood relation. There was no one among his wives who was more generous than her as far as charity giving is concerned. She migrated to Abyssinia, escaping with her religion. The king of Abyssinia paid her bridal gift on the Prophet’s behalf and got her ready for him.

Another outstanding wife of the Prophet was Umm Salamah, the patient and noble woman. Her name is Hind bint Abee Umayyah, one of the earliest emigrants. When she wanted to migrate to al-Madeenah with her husband Aboo Salamah, her clan separated between her and her husband and son. She said, “Every morning I would go to Abtah [a valley in Makkah] and I would keep weeping until evening. I did so for a whole year or close to a year. They later pitied me and gave my son back to me.”

Her sure faith in Allaah was firm-rooted. When her first husband died, she said the invocation that Allaah’s Messenger taught her, so Allaah gave her a better husband in the person of Allaah’s Messenger. Umm Salamah narrated that the Messenger of Allaah said,

“If any Muslim who suffers some calamity says what Allaah has commanded him," We belong to Allaah and to Him we shall return; O Allaah, reward me for my affliction and give me something better than it in exchange," Allah will give him something better than it in exchange.’” When Abu Salamah died she said: ‘Which Muslim is better than Abu Salamah whose family was the first to emigrate to the Messenger of Allaah?’ I then said those words, and Allaah gave me the Prophet in exchange.” (Muslim)

Make this supplication your treasure during afflictions, Allaah will provide you with what is better.

Dear brethren! There is a woman among the Prophet’s wives known as Mother of the Poor. She is Zaynab bint Jahsh whose mother is the Prophet’s aunt. She enjoyed nobility of birth and character. She was described by Aboo Nu’aym as, ‘devoted and contented woman’. Allaah married her to His Prophet through an explicit verse from His Book,

“So when Zaid had accomplished his desire from her (i.e. divorced her), We gave her to you in marriage.” (Al-Ahzaab 33:37)

Her marriage to the Prophet is a blessing to the Muslim women till the day of Resurrection, for it was after her marriage that Allaah ordained hijaab for the women so that it could serve as a symbol of protection for their honour, chastity and 

purity.

Zaynab was extremely generous to the poor and the weak. She was highly charitable. In spite of her nobility and high status, she used to work with her hands, tanning and making beads. And she would spend the proceeds for the poor. ‘Aaishah said, “I have not seen a woman better in her adherence to religion, more pious, kinder to the kith and kin and more generous in giving charity than Zaynab.”

Juwayriyyah bint al-Haarith from the tribe of Banoo al-Mustaliq is another of the Prophet’s distinguished wives. Her father was the influential chief of his tribe. She was in herself blessed as she was blessed to her tribe. ‘Aaishah said, “I have not seen a woman who is greater in blessing to her people more than her.” She was given to performing much acts of worship for her Lord. She sincerely and devotedly worshiped her Lord. She would sit down in her prayer place remembering her Lord after Fajr until mid-noon. She said

,  “The Messenger of Allaah came to me one morning while I was glorifying Allaah. He then went out for some of his needs. When he came back just before mid-noon he said, ‘Are you still there remembering Allaah?’ And I said, ‘Yes.’” (Muslim)

Another honourable wife of Allaah’s Messenger is the beautiful Safiyyah bint Huyayy, a descendant of Prophet Haaroon [Aaron]. She was a noble and intelligent woman. She was highly-placed, religious, deliberate and peace-loving. The Messenger of Allaah told her, “Indeed, you are a daughter of a Prophet [meaning Aaron], your uncle is a Prophet [meaning Moses]; and you are also married to a Prophet.” (At-Tirmidhee)

The feast of her marriage to the Prophet comprised only of butter, cottage cheese and dates. But the marriage was blessed.

Maymoonah bint al-Haarith al-Hilaaliyyah, the woman who was given to being kind to the kith and kin is another eminent wife of the Prophet. She was one of the greatest women. Allaah endowed her with pure heart and performance of much acts of worship. ‘Aaishah said about her, “She was one of the most pious and most generous to the kith and kin among us.”

Fellow Muslims! That is the history of the outstanding women of Islaam, mothers of the faithful. Their virtues are glowing. They had combination of beauties and virtues. It is therefore, incumbent upon Muslim women to make them their models in matters of their religion, their submission to Allaah and His Messenger, their conduct, their consciousness of Allaah, their performance of acts of worship, their truthfulness in words and their spending for the poor. They need to emulate them in their alleviation of other people’s sufferings; and in their efforts to make their children righteous, correct them with patience and in seeking fortification through knowledge and learning from erudite scholars.

They need to emulate them in keeping themselves properly covered, maintaining their chastity, staying at their homes and keeping away from doubtful and lustful things. They should emulate them by avoiding pinning their hopes on this world, heedlessness and forgetfulness or being carried away by outward beauties while the inward is corrupt.

The Muslim women should avoid looking at forbidden things and engaging in amorous conversations with alien men. They should beware of those who are calling to the removal of hijaab and mixing with men.

Muslim woman’s greatness and glory lie in her religion and her hijaab. Allaah says,

“O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e. screen themselves completely except the eyes or one eye to see the way). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed. And Allaah is Ever Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Al-Israa 33:59)

Dear Muslims! The Prophet’s wives lived with him humbly in apartments built of brick and palm leaves, but full of eemaan and piety. They showed patience with the Messenger of Allaah over poverty and hunger. Sometimes, a month or two would pass with no cooking fire kindled in their homes. They would spend days with nothing to eat but only dates and water. Sometimes they would make do with water only. Yet they lived in contentedness and patience upon Allaah’s promise that,

“The Hereafter is better for you than the present (life of this world).” (Ad-Duhaa 93:4)

And His promise,

“And whosoever of you is obedient to Allaah and His Messenger and does righteous good deeds, We shall give her, her reward twice over, and We have prepared for her a noble provision.” (Al-Ahzaab 33:31)

Brethren in Islaam! The Prophet married five of his wives with their ages ranging between forty and sixty. By that he was able to lay an example in taking care of the widow and their orphaned children. He married Khadeejah while she was forty years old, with three children from the previous marriage, while he was unmarried before. He married Zaynab bint Khuzaymah who was an almost sixty-year-old widow. He married Umm Salamah who was a widow with six children. He married Sawdah who was a fifty-five years old widow.

He married some relatives from among his cousins. And he married some women who were not his relatives.

He was a compassionate, dutiful and honourable husband to them all. He lived with them in the most beautiful way. He was always cheerful and kind to them.

Therefore, let those who want to prosper emulate the Messenger of Allaah, who is the best of all creatures. Let the Muslim women follow the path of the righteous wives of the Prophet. For, there is no success for any woman except by following the path of these pious ladies in their righteousness and God-consciousness and in their dutifulness to their husband and children.

[1] Thareed is a dish of sopped bread, meat and broth.

Shawwal

Bismillah - In the name of Allah the most Gracious most merciful.

Voluntary Fasting  Author: Abu Abdillah Abdel-Kader Kamel Tayebi al-Athari As we are beginning our new year with the great month of Muharram in which there is the great day of `Ashourah that the Muslims fast in revival of the practice of the Prophet Mousa alaihi as-Salam, I thought sharing with my dear brothers and sisters some important facts regarding voluntary fasting. Fasting in general and voluntary fasting in particular is a great worship of all time. Fasting is not restricted to Ramadhan, it is an act of worship that can be [and should be in some cases] performed at any time and at any place except when not recommended. Indeed, it is a worship that draws the believer closer to Allah and closer to perfection. In prayer most of us pray Sunna [supererogatory/optional/voluntary] prayer before or after mandatory prayer, called Rawatib, such as four Rak`at before and two after, two after Maghrib and `Isha and the two rak`at of Fajr. These are prayers we pray before or after a mandatory prayer. Similarly, there is a mandatory fasting and that is in Ramadhan. Just as the one performs the Rawatib before and after the Fardh prayer one should fast before and after Ramadhan, and just as the Rawatib were set by the Prophet salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam the in some specific manner and amount, the Nafl [optional] Fasting was also set by the Prophet salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam. In this short article we shall review the fasting of some days that were recommended by the Prophet salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam. 1- Six days of the month of Shawwal: Abu Ayyoub reported that the Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam said "Whoever fasts the month of Ramadhan and then follows it by fasting six days during the month of Shawwal will be rewarded as if he had fasted the entire year. [Muslim, at-Tirmithi, Ibn Majah, Abu Dawood and Ahmad by way of Jabir]. These days can be anytime during the month of Shawwal except the first day because it is unlawful to fast the day of Eid. These days do not have to be at beginning of the month nor do they have to be consecutive. Hence, Muslims should seize this opportunity and fast these six days to get Allah's reward. Why the fasting of six days of Shawal after Ramadhan equates that of the whole year? Some `Ulamaa' say that the good deed is rewarded ten times. Thus fasting six days is like fasting 60 days, added to 30 days of Ramadhan times 10 (i.e. 300) it makes it a year. 2- The day of `Arafah: This is for those who are not performing the Hajj (pilgrimage) [1]. Abu Qatadah said : the Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, said: "Fasting on the day of `Arafah is an expiation [of sins] for two years, the year preceding it and the year following it and the fasting the day of `Aashuraa' is an expiation for the year preceding it. [Muslim, an-Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, Abu Dawood]. 3- Fasting three days of every month: `Amr Ibn Sharhabeel said : A man came to the Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, and said : O Messenger of Allah! what do you say in a man who fasts the whole year [time], on this the Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, said : I wish he would not eat anything during the year, he said what about two thirds of the year, he replied "more", he said what about half of it, he said more and then said : Shall I not inform you of what takes away the whispers of the chest, they said yes tell us, he said " fasting three days from every month. [an-Nasaa'i; Sahih] Abu Tharr Al-Ghefari said: "The Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, said "Whoever fasts from every month three days, it is like fasting the whole year, then Allah revealed what backs this in His book "Whoever comes with a good deed, he is rewarded ten folds", one day for ten. [Ibn Majah and at-Tirmithi]. Abu Tharr Al-Ghefari said: "The Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, said "O Abu Tharr! if you fast three days of every month, then fast the 13th, the 14th and the 15th [these are call the al-ayaam al-beedh, the white days]". [Ahmad, an-Nasaa'i and at-Tirmithi; Sahih] 4- Fasting Mondays and Thursdays: `Aa'ishah said : The Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa salam, used to fast Mondays and Thursdays". [an-Nasaa'i; Sahih] Abu Hurairah reported that the most the Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa salam, would fast would be Monday and Thursday. He was asked about that and he said: "The deeds of people are presented to Allah on every Monday and Thursday. Allah forgives every Muslim except for those who are deserting each other. He says: "leave them for later." [Ahmad; Hasan] 5- Fasting Tasu'a and `Aashuraa': Tasu`aa' and `Aashuraa' are respectively the ninth and the tenth day of the month of Muharram. Ibn Abbas reported: "The Prophet came to Madinah and found the Jews fasting the day of Ashura. He asked them: "Why are you fasting this day?" They said: "This is a great day. Allah saved Mousa (Moses) and the tribes of Israel from their enemies on this day and therefore Mousa fasted on it. "The Prophet said: "We have more of a right to Mousa than you." So he fasted on that day also and ordered the people to fast on that day." [al-Bukhari and Muslim]. When the Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa salam, fasted the day of Ashura, the people told him that this day is a day that Jews and Christians honor. The Prophet said: "When the following year comes, Allah willing, we shall fast both the ninth and the tenth day of Muharram (that is to be different from the Jews and the Christians.)" The Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa salam, died before the following year."[Muslim]. 6- Fasting during the month of Muharram: Muharram is the first month of the Islamic year. The month of Muharram is the first month of the lunar year. Abu Hurairah reported: "I asked the Prophet: "Which prayer is best after the obligatory prayers?" He said: "Prayer during the middle of the night." I asked: "Which fast is best after the fast of Ramadhan?" He said: "Fasting during the month of Muharram." [Muslim]. 7-Fasting during the month of Sha`baan Sha`baan is the month before Ramadan Sha`baan `Aa'isha said: "I have never seen the Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa salam, completing the fast of a month as he did for Ramadhan, and I have never seen him fasting so much as he would in Sha`baan." [al-Bukhari and Muslim] Fasting of a woman in her husband's presence. Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, said : "A woman is not to fast [even] for one day while her husband is present except with his permission, unless it is during Ramadhaan." [al-Bukhari, Muslim and Ahmad] Intention for voluntary fasting As opposed to Ramadan, the intention does not have to be made before dawn. The person can intend fasting [and start fasting] after dawn any time [even after noon ] given that he did not eat anything. `Aa'ishah said : The Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, came to us one day and said, "Do you have any [food]?" We said "No". He said: Therefore, I am Fasting". [Muslim and Abu Dawood] Breaking the fast when fasting voluntarily and making up voluntary fasting Ummu Hani reported that the Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, entered her room during the day of the conquest of Makkah. He was offered something to drink and he drank from it. Then he offered it to me [Ummu Hani] and I said :" I am fasting". The Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, said : The one who is fasting voluntarily is in charge of himself. If you wish you may fast and if you wish you may break your fast". [Ahmad, ad-Daraqutni, al-Baihaqi, al-Hakim and at-Tirmithi]. In another narration, Ummu Hani said I am fasting but I dislike to return your leftover. He said: If it [the day you are fasting] is a making up for a day of Ramadhan then make up another day for it, and if it is a voluntary fasting day, then if you wish make it up and if you wish not don't" [Ahmad and Abu Dawood] `Aishah said : The Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, came to us one day and said, "Do you have any [food]?" We said "No". He said: Therefore, I am Fasting and then he came to me after that day and I was gifted some Hais [a kind of food], so I left it for him, and he used to like al-Hais. She said :" O Messenger of Allah! we were gifted some Hais and I left some for you. He said" Bring it closer to me, though I woke up with the intention of fasting, I will eat from it. Then he said: The example of the voluntary fasting is like the man who takes out money [to give] for charity, if he likes he give it and if he likes he keep it. [Ibn Majah; Hasan] Conclusion It is clear that voluntary fasting was something very common among the Sahaba and in the previous nations of believers and the Prophets Dawood and Mousa alaihim as-salaam are good examples. Indeed it is the way of the Believers that we should strive to follow.

Kitab At-Tauhid by Muhammed Abdul-Wahhab

                                             CHAPTER No: 1

                                 At- Tauhid (The Oneness of Allah)

Allah the Almighty said:
"And I (Allah) created not the Jinns and men except they should worship Me (Alone)." (51:56)

And Allah  stated:
"And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): 'Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taghut (all false deities etc. i.e. do not worship Taghut besides Allah).' " (16:36)

And Allah said:
“And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: 'My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was small.' " (17:23, 24)

And Allah said:
"Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship."(4:36)

And Allah said:
"Say (O Muhammad May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him ): Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from: Join not anything in worship with Him; be good and dutiful to your parents; kill not your children because of poverty -We provide sustenance for you and for them; come not near to shameful sins (illegal sexual intercourse, etc.) whether committed openly or secretly, and kill not anyone whom Allah has forbidden, except for a just cause (according to Islamic law), This He has commanded you that you may understand. And come not near to the orphan's property, except to improve it, until he (or she) attains the age of full strength; and give full measure and full weight with justice. We burden not any person, but that which he can bear. And whenever you give your word (i.e. judge between men or give evidence, etc.), say the truth even if a near relative is concerned, and fulfill the Covenant of Allah. This He commands you, that you may' remember. And verily, this is My Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path. This He has ordained for you that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious)." (6: 151-153)

Ibn Mas'ud (May Allah be pleased with him) said:
Whoever wishes to ascertain the very will of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) on which the Prophet has put his seal, let him read the Statement of Allah:
"Say (O Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) ): Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from: Join not anything in worship with Him... (up to) ...And verily, this is My Straight Path."

It is narrated that Mu'adh bin Jabal (May Allah be pleased with him) said:

I was riding behind the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) on a donkey and he said to me "O Mu'adh, do you know what is the right of Allah on his slaves and what is the right of the slaves upon Allah?" I responded: "Allah and His Messenger know best." He continued, "The Right of Allah upon His slaves is to worship Him Alone and never to associate anything with him. The right of slaves upon Him is not to punish any person who does not associate anything with Him." I said: "O Allah's Messenger, may I not give the glad tidings to the people?" He replied: "No. Do not inform them lest they rely on (this promise and lapse in their service to Him)1.” [The above Hadith is mentioned in two Sahih Books (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)].

Important issues of the Chapter

1) Wisdom of Allah in creating jinn and mankind.
2) Worship is Tauhid, as, in this issue there had always been dispute (between the Prophets and the polytheists).
3) Those who have not fulfilled the requirements of Tauhid are such as they have not worshippedAllah, and in this sense is the meaning of the verse:
"Nor will you worship that which I worship"
(109:3).
4) The wisdom in sending the Messengers.
5) The message of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) (Tauhid) applies to all nations.
6) All Prophets have brought one and the same religion.
7) The major issue is that the worship of Allah cannot be performed until Taghut is denounced Mu'adh (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated this Hadith avoiding the sin of concealment. [Translator] and rejected. In this meaning is the saying of Allah:
"Whoever disbelieves in Taghut and believes in Allah then he has grasped the     most trustworthy handhold."  (2:256)
8) At-Taghut is inclusive of all that is worshipped other than Allah.
9) The tremendous importance of the three entirely clear verses of Surah Al-An'am (6:151-153) among the early pious predecessors. In these verses are 10 issues, the first of which is the prohibition of Shirk.
10) The clear verses in Surah Al-Isra (17:22-39) have 18 substantial issues. Allah begins them with:
"Set not up with Allah any other ilah (god), (O man) or you will sit down reproved, forsaken (in the Hell-fire)".  (17:22)
And ended with:
"And set not up with Allah any other ilah (god) lest you should be thrown into Hell, blameworthy and rejected." (17:39).
Allah informed us the importance of these issues by saying:
"This is (part) of Al-Hikmah (wisdom, good manners and high character, etc.) which your lord has inspired to you." (17:39)
11) The verse of Surah An-Nisaa (4:36) called "The verse of the ten rights" to which Allah the Most High begins by saying:
"And worship Allah, and join none with Him in worship."
12) We must note the admonition of Prophet Mohammed (May peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) which he made before his death.
13) To recognize Allah's right upon us.
14) To recognize the rights of slaves on Allah, if they fulfill His right.
15) This issue was unknown to most of the Companions of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him).
16) Permissibility to hide some knowledge for the common good (as determined by the Shari'ah).
17) It is desirable to pass the pleasing news to other Muslims.
18) Fear of depending (of the people) upon the expansiveness of Allah's mercy.
19) The statement of one, who is asked on matters that are not known to him: "Allah and His Messenger know the best".
20) It is correct to impart knowledge selectively to someone and not to others.
21) The humility of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) on riding a donkey with a companion behind.
22) It is legitimate to have a second rider behind.
23) Superiority of Mu'adh bin Jabal (May Allah be pleased with him) The great importance of this issue (of Tauhid).

CHAPTER No: 2

The superiority of Tauhid And what it removes of sins

Allah the Most Exalted said:
"It is those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah and worship none but Him Alone) and confuse not their belief with Zulm (wrong i.e. by worshipping other besides Allah), for them (only) there is security and they are guided ones." (6:82)

Narrated Ubadah bin As-Samit (May Allah be pleased with him), that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:

"Whoever testifies that there is nothing worthy of worship in truth (no God) except Allah Alone, Who is without (peer or) partner, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, and that 'Iesa (Jesus) is the slave of Allah, His Messenger, and His Word which He bestowed in Maryam (Mary) and a spirit (created) from Him, and that Paradise & Hell-fire are realities, Allah will admit him into Paradise, whatever his deeds might be." 
(Sahih Al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 3252)

'Itban (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:
"Indeed Allah has forbidden for Hell the person who testifies: 'There is nothing worthy of
worship in truth (no true God) but Allah', seeking thereby nothing but Allah's Face (pleasure)." (Al-Bukhari, Muslim).

Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:

"Musa (Moses) (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said: 'O my Rabb, teach
me something through which I can remember You and supplicate to You.' Allah answered: 'Say, O Musa, La ilaha ilIa-Allah'. Musa said: 'O my Rabb, all your slaves say these words'. Allah said:
'O Musa, if the seven heavens and all they contain other than Me [1] (Ghairy) and the seven earths as well, were all put in one side of a scale and La ilaha ilIa-Allah put in the other the latter would overweigh them.'" [This Hadith has been reported by Ibn Hibban, and Al-Hakim declared it Sahih].
------------------------------------------------------------------

[1]  This phrase (Ghairy)  is the exception from what is in the heavens. It should not be misunderstood that
Allah is contained within the heavens or earth since He has described Himself in the Qur'an as the
Transcendent, Most High, Above All, i.e. in 2:255, 20:5, 25:59 and many places elsewhere in His Book.
Indeed the statement is another proof that Allah cannot be considered within the creation. [Detailed
explanation can be seen in "Fath-ul-Majid Sharh Kitab-ut-Tauhid  -Translator].
--------------------------------------------------------------------
At-Tirmidhi reports from Anas (May Allah be pleased with him): He heard Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) saying:

"Allah the Most Exalted said: 'O son of Adam, were you to come to Me with the world full of sins, and meet Me without making anything partner to Me (Shirk), I would come to you with a similar amount of forgiveness.' "

Important issues of the Chapter

1) Abundance of Allah's favour.
2) The abundant reward of Tauhid towards Allah.
3) Besides earning rewards, Tauhid recompenses sins.
4) Explanation of the verse 82 in Surat Al-An'am.
5) Ponder the five points mentioned in the Hadith narrated by Ubadah (bin As-Samit (May Allah be pleased with him))
6) If you look at the Ahadith from Ubadah and 'Itban (May Allah be pleased with him) and what follows altogether, the meanings of La-ilaha illa Allah become clear to you along with the error of those who are the deceived ones (Al-Maghrurin).
7) Take note of the condition in Itban's Hadith.
8) That the Prophets needed to be apprised of the tremendous virtue of La ilaha ilIa-Allah (There is no true God but Allah).
9) The point of overweighing of the Kalimah (May Allah be pleased with him) in respect to all other creation, though many who enunciate it will not get the full weight in their balance.
10) The text showing that there are seven earths like seven heavens.
11) That the seven earths and heavens are full of creatures.
12) Confirmation of the Attributes of Allah, contrary to the claims of Ash'ariyah.
13) Undoubtedly, if you understand the Hadith of Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) you would understand the statement in the Hadith of Itban (May Allah be pleased with him):

"Indeed Allah has forbidden for Hell the person who testifies: 'There is nothing worthy of worship in truth (no true God) but Allah,' seeking thereby nothing but Allah's Face (pleasure)" that it constitutes abandonment of Shirk practically and not merely confessing La-ilaha ilIa- Allah by the tongue.

14) Reflection and consideration of the shared characteristics of Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) and Iesa (May Allah be pleased with him) both as Prophets and slaves of Allah.
15) Knowing the peculiarity of Jesus (May Allah be pleased with him) being created as Kalimat- Allah (the Word of Allah).
16) Knowledge that Jesus (May Allah be pleased with him) is a spirit from Allah (Ruhan Minhu).
17) Knowing the merits of belief in Paradise and Hell.
18) Knowledge of the meaning of the statement (of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) "... whatever his deeds might be."
19) Knowledge that Al-Mizan (the Scale) consists of two sides.
20) What is meant by the mention of the "Face" (of Allah).

 CHAPTER No: 3

Who purifies Tauhid (from Shirk..etc) will enter Paradise without giving an Account.

Allah the Most Exalted said:
"Verily Abraham (May Allah be pleased with him) was indeed a model, devoutly obedient to
Allah, unswervingly true in faith and he was not of those who ascribed partners to Allah."(16: 120)

And He further said:
"And those who ascribe not anyone (in worship) as partners with their Lord."(23:59)

Husain bin Abdur-Rahman narrated:

Once when I was with Sa'id bin Jubair, he asked, "Who among you did see the shooting star last night?" I answered, "I had seen it," and then explained that I was not at the prayer at the time because I had been stung by a poisonous scorpion. He said, "What did you then do?" I replied, "I used Ruqyah to cure it!" He said, "What compelled you to do that?” I said, "A Hadith I heard from Ash-Sha'bi." He asked, "Which Hadith Sha'bi narrated?" I replied, "He reported from Buraidah bin Al-Husaib, who said that Ruqyah is not allowed except for the treatment of 'evil eye' ('Ain) and (poisonous) sting." He (Sa'id bin Jubair) said, "He has done well by stopping on what he has heard (i.e. to act according to the knowledge as opposed to ignorance). However Ibn Abbas narrated us that the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said, 'All the nations were made to pass before me, and I saw a Prophet with a small group with him, and a Prophet with two or three people and a Prophet with none. Then there appeared a large group of people which I took to be my nation (Ummah). But I was told that those were of Musa and his people. Later, a larger group appeared and I was told that those were my people. Among them were seventy thousand who would enter Paradise without reckoning or punishment.' The Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) then got up and went to his house, and the people went into discussion as to who they might be. Some said, 'Perhaps they are the Companions of the Messenger of Allah.' Others said, 'May be they belong to those who were born in Islam and therefore had never ascribed anyone partner with Allah.' And while they were exchanging their views like this, the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) came out and was informed about the news. He said, 'Those people are those who do not treat themselves with Ruqyah, nor do they believe in bad or good omen (from birds etc.), nor do they get themselves branded (cauterized), but they put their trust (only) in their Lord.' On that 'Ukashah bin Mihsan got up and said (to Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) 'Invoke Allah to make me one of them.' He (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said, 'You are one of them.' Then another man got up and said, 'Invoke Allah to make me one of them.' He (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said, 'Ukashah has preceded you.' "

___________________________________________

1] Translator's footnote: To translate Ruqyah as 'incantation' may bring to mind connotations of magic or sorcery which
are forbidden in Islam. To use the term "By spiritual means" may not convey the meaning in full. [See Ismail L. Faruq's
Translation] Ruqyah is when a person recites part of the Qur'an such as Al-Fatihah or makes supplication using words
transmitted from the authentic Hadith of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) upon
someone. What appears to be a blanket forbiddance of doing so except for the two exceptions mentioned is actually a
strong pronouncement of its allowance in these cases. It is confirmed in the authentic Seerah that the Prophet (May the
peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) himself allowed Ruqyah in other instances, but he (May the peace and
blessing of Allah be upon him) admonished against a person doing so for other than himself. (Ref. Fath-ul-Majid)
_________________________________________

Important issues of the Chapter

1) In Tauhid, people are classified into various ranks.
2) What is the meaning of 'purification of Tauhid'.
3) Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) was praised by Allah for he was not of the polytheists.
4) Allah praised all those Auliya for they did not make anyone with Him as the partner (did not practice polytheism).
5) Keeping away from cauterization and Ruqyah is the fullest purification of Tauhid.
6) Possessing these characteristics (traits) is Tawakkul (trust in Allah Alone).
7) The deep knowledge of the Companions of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) who knew that such degree of trust (Tawakkul) in Allah could not be attained without action.
8) This shows how earnest the Companions were in doing good deeds.
9) The superiority of the followers of Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) quantitatively as well as qualitatively.
10) The superiority of the Ummah (followers) of Musa (May Allah be pleased with him).
11) All the Ummah (nations) will be paraded before Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) .
12) Every Ummah (nation) will be accompanied by its respective Prophet.
13) Generally, few people responded to the call of Prophets.
14) The Prophets, whom nobody responded to, will come alone before Allah.
15) The substance of these facts is that man should not worry about numbers, neither must he feel proud about huge numbers nor be disheartened by less numbers.
16) The permission of using Ruqyah to treat effects of evil eye and poisonous sting.
17) By the Hadith "He has done well by stopping on what he has heard”, the depth of knowledge of the predecessors is known, and it is also known that the first Hadith does not contradict the second.
18) The avoidance of the predecessors of praising anyone undeservedly.
19) The Prophet's statement that 'You are one of them' is a sign of Prophethood.
20) The excellence of Ukashah (May Allah be pleased with him)
21) Using Ma'areed (to mention something casually among other things, or a description open to various interpretations).
22) The excellent manners of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him).

                                   CHAPTER No: 4
                        Fear of Shirk (Polytheism)

Allah the Almighty said:

"Verily, Allah forgives not that partners should be set up with Him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases." (4:48, 116)
Prophet Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) said:

"And keep me and my sons away from worshipping idols." (14:35)

It is narrated in the Hadith that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:

"What I fear most for you is a form of Shirk." When asked about it, he said, "Ar-Riya (showing oft)."

Ibn Mas'ud (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated that Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:

"Whoever dies while ascribing partners to Allah, enters the Hell-fire." (Al-Bukhari)

Muslim reports from Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:

"Whoever meets Allah (on the Day of Judgement) not having associated anyone with Him (in worship), shall enter Paradise; and whoever meets Him having committed Shirk in any way will enter the Hell-fire."

Important issues of the Chapter

1) Fear of Shirk (polytheism).
2) Showing off (Riyaa) is a type of Shirk.
3) Showing off is a lesser type of Shirk.
4) Falling into minor Shirk (Riyaa) is more fearful to the righteous and pious people than other matters (because of the ease, one can fall into it due to its being so subtle).
5) Nearness of Paradise and Hell.
6) Combination of the nearness of Paradise and Hell has been stated in the same Hadith.
7) Whoever meets Allah (on the Day of the Judgement) having associated nothing with Him, shall enter Paradise; and whoever dies while committing Shirk with Allah in any way shall enter Hell, even though he might have been a great worshipper.
8) The important issue of the invocation of Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) for himself and his progeny, being the protection from worship of idols.
9) The acknowledgement of Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) of the condition of most people that “O my Lord, they have indeed led astray many among mankind."
10) An explanation of the meaning of (the Kalimah) (May Allah be pleased with him) "There is nothing deserving of worship in truth besides Allah" as reported by Al- Bukhari.
11) The superiority of one who is free from Shirk.


                                  CHAPTER No: 5
The Call to testify that there is nothing deserving of Worship in truth except Allah

Allah the Exalted said:
"Say you (O Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) : 'This is my way; I invite unto Allah (i.e. to the Oneness of Allah –Islamic Monotheism) (with sure knowledge), I and whosoever follows me (also must invite others to Allah i.e. to the Oneness of Allah -Islamic Monotheism) with sure knowledge. And Glorified and Exalted is Allah (above all that they associate as partners with Him), and I am not of the polytheists.' " (12: 108)

Ibn Abbas (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated:

When Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) sent Mu'adh (May Allah be pleased with him) to Yemen, he said, "You will come upon the People of the Book, let your first act be to call them to testify that -There is nothing worthy of worship in truth but Allah."

And in another version of this tradition (it is said):

"To single out Allah Alone in the worship, i.e. actualize the Oneness (Tauhid) of Allah-if they obey you in this, inform them that Allah has prescribed for them to offer 5 prayers (Salat) every day and night. If they obey you in this, then inform them that Allah has imposed upon them the duty of Sadaqah (Zakat) to be levied from their rich and distributed to the poor, If they obey you in this, then be careful not to take the best of their properties (as payment of Zakat), and safeguard yourself against the supplication of those who have suffered injustice because there is no veil between his supplication and Allah,"  [Al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 1389/1425 and Muslim]                                                                                      

Both collectors have also reported that Sahl bin Sa'd (May Allah be pleased with him) said:

On the day of Khaibar, Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) asserted, "Tomorrow I shall indeed give the flag to a person who loves Allah and His Messenger and is loved by Allah and His Messenger. Allah will grant victory under his leadership." The people spent the night absorbed in discussing as to whom might the flag be given! In the morning they came eagerly to Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) each of them hoping to be given the flag. Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) asked, "Where is Ali bin Abi Talib?" They replied, "He is suffering from an eye ailment." He was sent for and brought. Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) then spat in his eyes and prayed for him, where upon he was cured as if he had no previous pains. Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) then gave him the flag and said, "Advance with ease and gentleness until you arrive in their midst, then call them to Islam and inform them of their duties to Allah in Islam. By Allah, if He may guide through you a single man to Islam then it is better for you than the red camels."

Important issues of the Chapter

1) It is the way of the followers of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) to call people to Islam.
2) Stress upon sincerity of intention, for many who supposedly call to the truth merely call to themselves.
3) Calling people to Allah with sure knowledge is obligatory.
4) Of the signs of the beauty of Tauhid is its being free of any blasphemy towards Allah.
5) The ugliness of Shirk is that it vilifies Allah.
6) Of the most important issues of the chapter is that a Muslim must and should remain aloof from polytheists in order to not become like them even if he does not himself commit Shirk.
7) Having Tauhid (and calling towards it) is the foremost obligation.
8) We must first begin with Tauhid before everything, even Salat.
9) The meaning of singling out Allah Alone in worship and being sincere in His Oneness is the
meaning of the Shahadah "La ilaha illa-Allah ".
10) Among the people of the Scriptures are some who either have no knowledge of Tauhid, or if they do, they don't follow it accordingly.
11) Stress on teaching step by step.
12) The most important issues must be explained first.
13) How to spend Zakat (obligatory charity).
14) The scholar (learned) must try to clear away misunderstandings of the learner.
15) The best properties of people must not be taken for Zakat (obligatory charity).
16) Beware of the supplication of the oppressed.
17) We are informed that there is no barrier to the supplication of the oppressed one (to be accepted).
18) The afflictions, hardship, hunger and epidemics suffered by the head of all the Prophets and the best of those close to Allah (May Allah be pleased with him) are nothing but exact
evidences of Tauhid.
19) The Prophet's assertion: "I shall indeed give the flag ..." is a sign from among the signs of Prophethood.
20) Applying spit to the eyes of Ali (May Allah be pleased with him) and the subsequent cure he received, is another sign of the Prophethood.
21) The superiority of Ali (May Allah be pleased with him)
22) The merits and virtues of the Companions (May Allah be pleased with him) that they kept speculating among themselves throughout the night (as to whom the flag might be handed over to) and their preoccupation with it over the news of lasting victory.
23) An illustration of the faith in Qadar -how the predetermined occurs to those who do not seek
it and denial to those who wished it all along the night.
24) The manner of the Prophet's advice to Ali (May Allah be pleased with him) "Go to the people
with ease and gentleness."
25) Calling to Islam before waging war.
26) Legitimacy of fighting with those who were previously called to Islam but rejected it.
27) Preaching Islam with wisdom as evidenced in his (May Allah be pleased with him) words:
"Inform them of the obligations upon them".
28) Recognizing the duty to Allah in Islam.
29) The reward of a person by whose hand a single man is guided.
30) To swear in support of a juristic verdict.