Ramadan

Haroon Mosque Khutbah 

Brothers and Sisters,                          Friday August 12^th. 2011
      Fasting in the beginning of Islamic era, the acts of eating, drinking and going in to the wives were forbidden in the night of Ramadan after Isha Prayer or sleeping.  This made hardship for the followers of Rasulullah (Sal) including Umar (Rd.).  He complained to Rasulullah (Sal) regarding this and Allah (Sub) has revealed :
Surah Al-Baqarah 2:187.   It is made lawful for you to have sexual relations with your wives on the night of As-Saum (the fasts). They are Libas [i.e. body cover, or screen, or Sakan, (i.e. you enjoy the pleasure of living with her - as in Verse 7:189) Tafsir At-Tabari], for you and you are the same for them. Allah knows that you used to deceive yourselves, so He turned to you (accepted your repentance) and forgave you. So now have sexual relations with them and seek that which Allah has ordained for you (offspring), and eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night), then complete your Saum (fast) till the nightfall. And do not have sexual relations with them (your wives) while you are in I'tikaf (i.e. confining oneself in a mosque for prayers and invocations leaving the worldly activities) in the mosques. These are the limits (set) by Allah, so approach them not. Thus does Allah make clear His Ayat (proofs, evidences, lessons, signs, revelations, verses, laws, legal and illegal things, Allah's set limits, orders, etc.) to mankind that they may become Al-Muttaqun
      Now these acts are permitted throughout the night before day-dawn.  This relieves the tension as well as fear of the believers.  Since they betrayed themselves by going in to their wives during the night, it was a sinful deed.  They feared Allah’s anger would fall on them.  Allah forgave them by His Mercy and gave permission for the future. 
      Kaffarah is a penalty of atonement when the fasting is deliberately broken, without a valid reason through eating, drinking, smoking and sex.  The penalty is: 1. to set a slave free (or) 2. to fast for sixty consecutive days (or)3. to feed sixty poor people one average meal.  It is better to try not to break our fast without proper reasons. 
      Muslims anyhow are permitted to break the fast of Ramadan when there is a danger to their health. Fidaya or compensation meal will be given to the poor in case one is on traveling or ill and can not fast on that day.   And one’s fast must be made up later of the year.
      It is now permissible to use inhalers (used for Asthma) while fasting since it is not related to food or nutrition.  But if the condition is not improved after the use, then one should break his fast and meet the doctor immediately. 
      There are things that do not break the fast:  1. If anyone forgets that he is fasting and eats or drinks, he should complete his fast.  It is only Allah (Sub) who has fed him and given him drink (reported by Muslim).  2. Bathing. 3. Use of make up or facial cream. 4. Injections which is solely medical and not nutritional.  5. Brushing the teeth. 
      Muslim should be mindful about the time to break fast.  People who live in upper floors of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, with a height of 828 meters have to break their fast 2 minutes time difference in Dubai.  This is because at almost one Km high, they can still see the sun after it has set on the ground.  A similar problem nearly a thousand years ago, when asked if guards atop the Lighthouse of Alexandria should break their fast with the rest of the city.  The answer was that they could only break their fast when they see the sun has gone down by themselves.
      During the time of Taraweeh Prayer, there might be some who relax while the Imam is reciting Al-Quran and only join the prayer when the Imam is about to Rukua or bow.  This act is forbidden.
Surah An-Nisa 4.142. Verily, the hypocrites seek to deceive Allah, but it is He Who deceives them. And when they stand up for As-Salat (the prayer), they stand with laziness and to be seen of men, and they do not remember Allah but little.
      Hope we are energetically ready for these special night prayers of Taraweeh. Narrated Abu Hurairah (Rd) Prophet Muhammad (Sal) said: “The most excellent prayer after that which is obligatory is the (late voluntary) night prayer.”  (reported by Muslim)
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Haroon Mosque Khutbah 

Brothers and Sisters,                              Friday August 5^th. 2011
      It is a manifestation of Allah’s mercy on His slaves that He ordained fasting for us in order to purify ourselves from excessive tastes and to cleanse our hearts from lustful things. These days, Muslims all over the world are receiving the month of Ramadan; the month of forgiveness, merits and gifts; the month that gladdens the hearts of righteous people.
Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183 O you who believe! Observing As-Saum (the fasting) is prescribed  for  you as   it was prescribed   for  those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqun.
      Fasting is prescribed for the people since the time of Adam (a.s).  Nabi Davud (a.s) fasted one day and broke his fast the other day, he fasted alternated days.  Nabi Isa (a.s) fasted for 40 days and 40 nights.  During the time of Rasulullah (Sal), Muslim fasts only 29 to 30 days. There is no fasting during the night.  Islam provides the most convenience way to fast. 
      “When the month of Ramadan enters, gates of Paradise are opened, gates of Hell are closed and devils are chained.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
      Fasting in this circumstance helps Muslim creates good habit.  It is self-restraint.  Fasting reduce the power of self or lust.
      Narrated Abu Huraira (Rd.): Allah’s Messenger (Sal) said, “If one does not abandon falsehood and action in accordance with it and foolishness, Allah has no need that he should abandon his food and drink.” (reported by Al-Bukhari and Abu Daud)
      Allah (Sub) Wish that Muslim practice mental restraint along with physical restraint.  But to control ourselves from backbiting, bad habits, and falsehood is more important than refrain from drinking and eating.  When both mental and physical restraint is achieved, we can become the pious.
      Rasulullah (Sal) emphasized that Sahur (taking a meal) should be taken just before dawn and never delay in breaking one’s fast, as a delayed breaking of fast is the practice of Jews and Christians.
Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185  The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan i.e. is present at his home), he must observe Saum (fasts) that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Saum (fasts) must be made up] from other days. Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you. (He wants that you) must complete the same number (of days), and that you must magnify Allah [i.e. to say Takbir (Allahu-Akbar; Allah is the Most Great) on seeing the crescent of the months of Ramadan and Shawwal] for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him.
      Since  Torah  and  Injeel  was  sent  down  in Ramadan and also Al-Quran.  Then Al-Quran was slowly revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Sal) according to the related situations. Every Ramadan, Gibreel revised the revealed Al-Quran with the Prophet Muhammad (Sal).  And we find this special occasion of Tarawiah Prayer only in Ramadan.  As if it is a symbol of revision of Al-Quran in the Month of Ramadan.  In fact we recite and revise Al-Quran in every month.  
      In Ramadan, Rasulullah (Sal) spend in charity more than any month.  Charity raises one rank in front of Allah and he/she will be under the shade of charity during the day of Resurrection.

Truthfulness

Haroon Mosque Khutabah
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Brothers and Sisters,                                  Friday June 17^th. 2011

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The essence of truthfulness is sincere in words and deeds, it is also conveying the message of Allah and His Prophet (Sal) to mankind to enjoin truthfulness and forbid falsehood. 

وَالَّذِي جَاءَ بِالصِّدْقِ وَصَدَّقَ بِهِ ۙ أُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْمُتَّقُونَ

Surah Az-Zumar 39:33 And he (Muhammad Sal.) who has brought the truth (this Quran and Islamic Monotheism) and (those who) believed therein (i.e. the true believers of Islamic Monotheism), those are Al- Muttaqun.

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      Prophet Muhammad (Sal) said: “The true believer is the one who when he speaks, he speaks the truth and when he is informed, he believes.”

Truthfulness keeps away from lying and the worst form of lying is to lie about Allah and Islam. Some witless persons represent Islam as violence or injustice way of life.  In fact, Islam is the religion of mercy and compassion.  People judge Muslim from what we practice.  If we practice good deeds, they will know that Islam teaches people to be good.  Muslim must know how to separate good deeds from bad deeds so we can practice only good deeds.  

وَإِذَا قُرِئَ الْقُرْآنُ فَاسْتَمِعُوا لَهُ وَأَنصِتُوا لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ

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Surah Al-Araf 7:204 So, when the Quran is recited, listen to it, and be silent that you may receive mercy.

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      There are some rules and manners about recitation of Al-Quran. There are Sajadah or prostration and Duaa after certain verses.   Though, it is a merit to recite Al-Quran.  But when no one listens to Al-Quran when it is read, the essence of recitation is lost.  How can one receive Mercy from Allah when one disobeys the Command of Al-Quran?

وَلَا تَكُونُوا كَالَّذِينَ قَالُوا سَمِعْنَا وَهُمْ لَا يَسْمَعُونَ

Surah Al-Anfal 8:21 And be not like those who say: "We have heard," but they hear not.

 إِنَّ شَرَّ الدَّوَابِّ عِندَ اللَّهِ الصُّمُّ الْبُكْمُ الَّذِينَ لَا يَعْقِلُونَ

Surah Al-Anfal 8:22 Verily! The worst of (moving) living creatures with Allah are the deaf and the dumb, those who understand not (i.e. the disbelievers).

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      Hearing is not enough but to listen to Al-Quran and concentrate on the meaning is more important.  Prophet Muhammad had never conducted any death anniversary of his loved ones whether his wife or his son.  We should follow our beloved Prophet (Sal) by supplicating to Allah regularly rather than doing it on a specific day. 

الَّذِينَ يَسْتَمِعُونَ الْقَوْلَ فَيَتَّبِعُونَ أَحْسَنَهُ ۚ أُولَٰئِكَ الَّذِينَ هَدَاهُمُ اللَّهُ ۖ وَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمْ أُولُو الْأَلْبَابِ

Surah Az-Zumar 39:18 Those who listen to the Word [good advice La ilaha ill-Allah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah) and Islamic Monotheism, etc.] and follow the best thereof (i.e. worship Allah Alone, repent to Him and avoid Taghut, etc.) those are (the ones) whom Allah has guided and those are men of understanding

      Among the causes of the absence of reflection on the meanings of Al-Quran is the failure to explore and understand the laws of Allah.  Muslim are Bestowed with the best Book and Criterion for life.  Therefore, we must follow the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (Sal) and stop practicing what is against the teachings of Allah and His Messenger.  Al-Quran is full of wisdom that provokes the mind and quickens the heart.  If Al-Quran is sent down on a mountain, it would break into pieces.  So Al-Quran softens the hearts of believers.  Al-Quran moderates the spiritual and material life harmoniously.  We are Muslim and we are the middle nation and the best community.  The sweetest sound we listen is from the recitation of Al-Quran.  It penetrates into the innermost of the heart and soul.

Patience

Haroon Mosque Khutabah

      Friday June 10^th. 2011 

Brothers and Sisters,

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      Allah (Sub) Has made this world a place of trials. All comfort that is enjoyed is temporary. Allah (Sub) Wish to see our steadfastness and perseverance at the time of adverse conditions. Allah (Sub) Love and Reward those who have patience.  

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وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُمْ حَتَّىٰ نَعْلَمَ الْمُجَاهِدِينَ مِنكُمْ وَالصَّابِرِينَ وَنَبْلُوَ أَخْبَارَكُمْ

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Surah Muhammad 47:31 And surely, We shall try you till We test those who strive hard (for the Cause of Allah) and the patient ones, and We shall test your facts (i.e. the one who is a liar, and the one who is truthful). 

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الَّذِينَ إِذَا أَصَابَتْهُم مُّصِيبَةٌ قَالُوا إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ
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Surah Al-Baqarah 2:156  Who, when afflicted with calamity, say: "Truly! To Allah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return."

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      The claim to be a true servant of Allah (Sub) has to be proved. Patience is a quality of a true believer who is able to tolerate hardships and difficulties without complaining and losing hope in Allah (Sub).  Bukhari reported that, Rasulullah (Sal) said: “One who adopts the policy of patience Allah (Sub) will grant him patience, and no person has been given a greater and better gift than patience”. When Rasulullah (Sal) was asked as to which people will be given the hardest test, he replied the Prophets and then those who followed them. Another aspect of patience is to be steadfast on obedience to Allah (Sub) as shown in
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وَأْمُرْ أَهْلَكَ بِالصَّلَاةِ وَاصْطَبِرْ عَلَيْهَا ۖ لَا نَسْأَلُكَ رِزْقًا ۖ نَّحْنُ نَرْزُقُكَ ۗ وَالْعَاقِبَةُ لِلتَّقْوَىٰ

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Surah Ta-Ha 20:132  And enjoin As-Salat (the prayer) on your family, and be patient in offering them [i.e. the Salat (prayers)].

      This is one of the duties of the family leader to see to it that the members of the family are steadfast in prayer or Salat.  Rasulullah (Sal) never missed a single Voluntary Prayer before Fajr, therefore, our family members should regularly offer prayers according to the Sunnah of Rasulullah (Sal). 

      There are two conflicting forces inside us.  One force motivates us towards Islam and righteousness while the other drives us towards our vain desires. We have to keep these forces under control by insisting the religious force and reducing the force of lust and it is called “Sabr”. Sabr or Patience is defined as “Maintaining control of the nafs in the face of such things which the nafs dislikes.” There are three types of Sabr.

      The 1^st. Sabru alal Amal. This means to be firm and constant in practicing righteous deeds. The 2^nd. Sabru fil Amal. This means to have Sabr while engaging in the righteous deeds. The nafs or desires are held in control and prevented from diversion while engaged in the act of virtue. Acts of Ibadah will be done correctly by the principles and rules pertaining to such acts. Full attention is derected towards that Ibadat.   And the 3^rd. Sabru anil Amal. This is to have Sabr in the non-commission of any act or to restrain the nafs from indulging in the prohibition of Allah (Sub). 

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الصَّابِرِينَ وَالصَّادِقِينَ وَالْقَانِتِينَ وَالْمُنفِقِينَ وَالْمُسْتَغْفِرِينَ بِالْأَسْحَارِ
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Surah Al-Imran 3:17 (They are) those who are patient ones, those who are true (in Faith, words, and deeds), and obedient with sincere devotion in worship to Allah. Those who spend [give the Zakat and alms in the Way of Allah] and those who pray and beg Allah's Pardon in the last hours of the night.

      These are the people who will receive reward from Allah (Sub).  Heaven with rivers flow beneath them and they will also receive the Pleasure of Allah (Sub) and that is the most valuable reward for good doers.

Picture : Google.

Common term for beleiver

Haroon Mosque Khuthabah

                                          

Friday April 29th, 2011

                                                                                                    
 Brothers and Sisters,     

      Conflict is a part of life. Freedom of thought is Bestowed to man by the Wills of Allah. As conflict grows stronger and turns into pressure. People who do not know how to solve it will turn themselves towards drugs or violence to reduce such pressure. Whenever conflict arises, people usually focus on the differences rather than common term. The differences like richness, cleverness, or even difference in religious faith usually pressurize the life of people. It is much better if people will try to negotiate and discuss on the issues that are common for both the parties. This technique is available in the Quran and the practice of Rasulullah (Sal).

قُلْ يَا أَهْلَ الْكِتَابِ تَعَالَوْا إِلَىٰ كَلِمَةٍ سَوَاءٍ بَيْنَنَا وَبَيْنَكُمْ أَلَّا نَعْبُدَ إِلَّا اللَّهَ وَلَا نُشْرِكَ بِهِ شَيْئًا وَلَا يَتَّخِذَ بَعْضُنَا بَعْضًا أَرْبَابًا مِّن دُونِ اللَّهِ ۚ فَإِن تَوَلَّوْا فَقُولُوا اشْهَدُوا بِأَنَّا مُسْلِمُونَ

Surah Al-Imran 3 : 64  Say (O Muhammad Sal): "O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians): Come to a word that is just (common terms) between us and you, that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partners with Him, and that none of us shall take others as lords besides Allah. Then, if they turn away, say: "Bear witness that we are Muslims."
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      Prophet Muhammad (Sal) sent letters to the Kings and Rulers of Kingdoms and Empires. As narrated by Ibn Abbas (Ra.) that Abu Sufyan told him personally about Heraclius of Byzatine upon receiving the letter from Prophet Muhammad (Sal). Heraclius asked whether anyone knew this man who claimed to be a Prophet. There Abu Sufyan told him that he was the nearest relative. Heraclius asked so many questions about the Prophet (Sal) and then he summarized as follows. Muhammad (Sal) came from a noble family and all the Messengers come from the noblest family.
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Muhammad (Sal) was not seeking to rule the kingdom since his father was not a King. The followers of the Messengers were mostly poor people. Since Muhammad (Sal) never told a lie, Heraclius believed that Muhammad (Sal) could never tell a lie about Allah. All of his followers  were so delighted after embraced Islam and it was true Faith and pleasure would enter the hearts. The numbers of his followers were increasing, that was the way of Faith till it completed. Heraclius told that the war between Muhammad (Sal) and Abu Sufyan was undecided because the Prophet (Sal) would be put to trails and the final victory would be for the Prophet Muhammad (Sal). Then Heraclius asked Abu Sufyan what Prophet Muhammad (Sal) asked him to do. He said, Prophet Muhammad (Sal) asked them to offer prayers, pay zakat, keep good relationship with the kin and to be chaste. Then Heraclius said, “If whatever you have said is true, then he is really a Prophet. I knew that he (Sal) was going to appear, but I never thought that he would be from amongst you.
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If I were certain that I can reach him, I would like to meet him and if I were with him, I would wash his feet and his kingdom will expand (surely) to what is under my feet.” Then Heralius asked for the letter of Allah’s Messenger(Sal) and read :
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      “In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. (This letter is) from Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, to Heraclius, the sovereign of Byzantine. Peace be upon him who follows the Right Path. Now then, I call you to embrace Islam. Embrace Islam and you will be saved (from Allah’s punishment) ; embrace Islam, and Allah will give you a double reward, but if you reject this, you will be responsible for the sins of all the people of your kingdom. “O people of the Scripture! Come to common terms between us and you, that we worship none but Allah (Alone)…. Bear witness that we are Muslims.”
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      Know them know us win all the battles. But for Prophet Muhammad (Sal), he followed a better way. That is to win without any battle. Through kind words and asking people to accept the common terms is a better way than violence or war.

وَمَنْ أَحْسَنُ قَوْلًا مِّمَّن دَعَا إِلَى اللَّهِ وَعَمِلَ صَالِحًا وَقَالَ إِنَّنِي مِنَ الْمُسْلِمِينَ

Surah Fussilat 41 : 33 And who is better in speech than he who  invites (men) to Allah's (Islamic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds, and says: "I am one of the Muslims."

Picture : Google

Road map for life

Haroon Mosque Khutbah

              Friday February 11^th. 2011

Brothers and Sisters, 

.Our destination is to return to Allah (Sub) with success.  Our route is like traveling on the road.  Along the path we have to go through rough road, sharp curve and steep narrow road or even off road sometimes.  The signals and road signs provide useful information for us to prevent accident or loss our ways.  The same way we look for signs in our way of life from Al-Quran. 

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Surah Al-Ankabut 29:49. 

بَلْ هُوَ آيَاتٌ بَيِّنَاتٌ فِي صُدُورِ الَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْعِلْمَ ۚ وَمَا يَجْحَدُ بِآيَاتِنَا إِلَّا الظَّالِمُونَ

Nay, but they, the clear Ayat (qualities of Prophet Muhammad Sal.) are preserved in the breasts of those who have been given knowledge.  And none but the wrongdoers deny Our Ayat (signs).   

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     Al-Quran is the Book of Signs.  One of the signs is the qualities of Prophet Muhammad (Sal.).  The Prophet (Sal.) cannot read or write thus the Message he spoke is not from other people’s books.  The Message is Revelation from Allah.  The Revelations and Signs are self-evident for knowledgeable people who have both literary and spiritual insight.  Undoubtedly, believers bear truth and signs in their hearts, minds, and understandings so they never go astray.  On the other hand, the rejecters of signs also reject the truth.  Such rejection is a mark of injustice, dishonest, oppression and perversity.  
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Surah Al-Ankabut 29:50. 

وَقَالُوا لَوْلَا أُنزِلَ عَلَيْهِ آيَاتٌ مِّن رَّبِّهِ ۖ قُلْ إِنَّمَا الْآيَاتُ عِندَ اللَّهِ وَإِنَّمَا أَنَا نَذِيرٌ مُّبِينٌ

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And they say: “Why are not signs sent down to him from his Lord?  Say: “The signs are only with Allah, and I am only a plain warner.” 

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     It is noticeable that even the disbelievers are asking for Signs!  Honestly, they should accept the Commandments of Allah and not their pride and prejudice.  They want Allah to send them Signs so they shall believe.  But the Signs are with Allah and He does what He Please!  Believers will not let their emotion surpass their intellect.  They have the ability to reason intelligently.
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Surah Al-Ankabut 29:51. 

أَوَلَمْ يَكْفِهِمْ أَنَّا أَنزَلْنَا عَلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ يُتْلَىٰ عَلَيْهِمْ ۚ إِنَّ فِي ذَٰلِكَ لَرَحْمَةً وَذِكْرَىٰ لِقَوْمٍ يُؤْمِنُونَ

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Is it not sufficient for them that We have sent down to you the Book (the Quran) which is recited to them?  Verily, herein is mercy and a reminder for a people who believe.  

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People who have faith in Allah will be able to feel the mercy and a reminder of truth whenever they hear Al-Quran.  Al-Quran is universal message and universal truth for everyone.  To recite the Quran in a nice, loud and pleasant tone is the worldly pleasure of the Prophet (Sal.)
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      Narrated Abu Hurairah (rd.) Allah’s Messenger (Sal.) said, “Not to wish to be the like of except two men: A man whom Allah has taught the Quran and he recites it during some hours in the night and during some hours of the day, and his neighbor listens to him and says, ‘I wish I had been given what has been given to so-and-so, so that I might do what he does’ ; and a man whom Allah has given wealth and he spends it according to what Allah has ordained in a just and right manner, whereupon another man may say, ‘I wish I had been given what so-and-so has been given, for then I would do what he does.’”  (Sahih Al-Bukhari).

Ref : google picture.

The Value of man

Haroon Mosque Khutbah

Friday February 4^th. 2011

Brothers and Sisters, 

Ever since man existed on this earth, he has been trying to know himself.  For those who are not guided by Allah (Sub), he gets misguided and confused between two extremes; sometimes he thinks that he is the greatest so he is filled with selfishness, oppressiveness and arrogance that would drive him to disbelieve in Allah.

A model of such people is the people of "Ad”, “Thamud”, or leader like Pharaoh.  In the other extreme, man thought that he was the most belittled, the weakest, and worthless being so he bows down with submission before a tree, a stone, or before the sun, the moon, the stars or a fire and other things. 

Because of these confusions that man has about himself, Islam clarified to man his reality, his origin and the different stages of creation that he goes through. Also, Islam clarified to man his purpose in this life and the relationships between him and the rest of creatures around him.

      The reality of man emanates from two origins:  his first creation is from mud and in the womb of his mother and the second creation is when Allah (Sub) breathed into him life, and made him hear, see, and think.

Surah As-Sajdah 32:7-9 

الَّذِي أَحْسَنَ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ خَلَقَهُ ۖ وَبَدَأَ خَلْقَ الْإِنسَانِ مِن طِينٍ

32:7 Who made everything He has created good, and He began the creation of man from clay.

 ثُمَّ جَعَلَ نَسْلَهُ مِن سُلَالَةٍ مِّن مَّاءٍ مَّهِينٍ

32:8 Then He made his offspring from semen of worthless water (male and female sexual discharge).

 ثُمَّ سَوَّاهُ وَنَفَخَ فِيهِ مِن رُّوحِهِ ۖ وَجَعَلَ لَكُمُ السَّمْعَ وَالْأَبْصَارَ وَالْأَفْئِدَةَ ۚ قَلِيلًا مَّا تَشْكُرُونَ

32 : 9 Then He fashioned him in due proportion, and breathed into him the soul (created by Allah for that person), and He gave you hearing (ears), sight (eyes) and hearts. Little is the thanks you give!

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"From worthless fluid," it paints this picture to man to eradicate his oppressive and arrogance potential and makes him humble in his life.

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From the privileges that Allah (Sub) gifted man with, is the ability of man to learn and acquire knowledge, and providing him with the tools of knowledge.  Therefore, man is created to be humble and knowledgeable. 

وَاللَّهُ أَخْرَجَكُم مِّن بُطُونِ أُمَّهَاتِكُمْ لَا تَعْلَمُونَ شَيْئًا وَجَعَلَ لَكُمُ السَّمْعَ وَالْأَبْصَارَ وَالْأَفْئِدَةَ ۙ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَشْكُرُونَ

Surah An-Nahl 16 :78 And Allah has brought you out from the wombs of your mothers while you know nothing. And He gave you hearing, sight, and hearts that you might give thanks (to Allah).

وَلَقَدْ ذَرَأْنَا لِجَهَنَّمَ كَثِيرًا مِّنَ الْجِنِّ وَالْإِنسِ ۖ لَهُمْ قُلُوبٌ لَّا يَفْقَهُونَ بِهَا وَلَهُمْ أَعْيُنٌ لَّا يُبْصِرُونَ بِهَا وَلَهُمْ آذَانٌ لَّا يَسْمَعُونَ بِهَا ۚ أُولَٰئِكَ كَالْأَنْعَامِ بَلْ هُمْ أَضَلُّ ۚ أُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْغَافِلُونَ

Surah Al-Araf 7 :179 And surely, We have created many of the jinns and mankind for Hell. They have hearts wherewith they understand not, they have eyes wherewith they see not, and they have ears wherewith they hear not (the truth). They are like cattle, nay even more astray; those! They are the heedless ones.

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As a result of what Allah (Sub.) blessed man with and distinguished him from the rest of His creation. He entrusted man with the establishment of His deen on earth that is done by implementing His divine laws and purifying submission to Him alone.

وَلَا تَقْفُ مَا لَيْسَ لَكَ بِهِ عِلْمٌ ۚ إِنَّ السَّمْعَ وَالْبَصَرَ وَالْفُؤَادَ كُلُّ أُولَٰئِكَ كَانَ عَنْهُ مَسْئُولًا

Surah Al-Isra 17:36 And follow not (O man i.e., say not, or do not or witness not, etc.) that of which you have no knowledge (e.g. one's saying: "I have seen," while in fact he has not seen, or "I have heard," while he has not heard). Verily! The hearing, and the sight, and the heart, of each of those you will be questioned (by Allah).

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The prophet Muhammad (Sal) said in an authentic hadith reported by Imam At-Tirmithi, "The servant of Allah will be asked about four things on the Day of Judgment: about his life and what he did with it? And about his knowledge and what he did with it? And about his money where he got it from and where he spent it? And about his body how he used it."

Be kind to our parents

Haroon Mosque Khutbah
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                                                          Friday  January 28^th. 2011

Brothers and Sisters, 

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 وَاعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ وَلَا تُشْرِكُوا بِهِ شَيْئًا ۖ وَبِالْوَالِدَيْنِ إِحْسَانًا وَبِذِي الْقُرْبَىٰ وَالْيَتَامَىٰ وَالْمَسَاكِينِ وَالْجَارِ ذِي الْقُرْبَىٰ وَالْجَارِ الْجُنُبِ وَالصَّاحِبِ بِالْجَنبِ وَابْنِ السَّبِيلِ وَمَا مَلَكَتْ أَيْمَانُكُمْ ۗ إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُحِبُّ مَن كَانَ مُخْتَالًا فَخُورًا

Surah An-Nisa 4:36 Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masakin (the poor), the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess. Verily, Allah does not like such as are proud and boastful.

The Command to be dutiful and good to our parents comes directly after the command to submit to Allah and worship Him alone.  Then Allah Command us to be good to relatives, orphans, the needy, neighbors and friends, and wayfarer respectively.  We are not supposed to be stingy with them or not taking good care of them.

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Surah Al-Isra 17:23-24.

وَقَضَىٰ رَبُّكَ أَلَّا تَعْبُدُوا إِلَّا إِيَّاهُ وَبِالْوَالِدَيْنِ إِحْسَانًا ۚ إِمَّا يَبْلُغَنَّ عِندَكَ الْكِبَرَ أَحَدُهُمَا أَوْ كِلَاهُمَا فَلَا تَقُل لَّهُمَا أُفٍّ وَلَا تَنْهَرْهُمَا وَقُل لَّهُمَا قَوْلًا كَرِيمًا

Surah Al-Isra 23. 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.

وَاخْفِضْ لَهُمَا جَنَاحَ الذُّلِّ مِنَ الرَّحْمَةِ وَقُل رَّبِّ ارْحَمْهُمَا كَمَا رَبَّيَانِي صَغِيرًا

Surah Al-Isra 24: 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." 

Once our parents reached old age, we have to communicate with them respectfully.  Be courteous with them and avoid all harsh and hard words or words of disrespect.  Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that Abdullah Ibn-Masud asked the Prophet Muhammad (Sal.) "Which action is most favorite for Allah the Almighty?" He (Sal.) answered, "Performing the Salat (or offering Prayers) in time." He asked, "Thereafter?" He (Sal.) said, "Good treatment to parents." He submitted, "Then which next?" He (Sal.) then said, "Al-Jihad or struggling in the way of Allah."  The Prophet (Sal.) also said that to take good care of the parents is as good as jihad. 

وَوَصَّيْنَا الْإِنسَانَ بِوَالِدَيْهِ حُسْنًا ۖ وَإِن جَاهَدَاكَ لِتُشْرِكَ بِي مَا لَيْسَ لَكَ بِهِ عِلْمٌ فَلَا تُطِعْهُمَا ۚ إِلَيَّ مَرْجِعُكُمْ فَأُنَبِّئُكُم بِمَا كُنتُمْ تَعْمَلُونَ

Surah Al-Ankabut 29:8 And We have enjoined on man to be good and dutiful to his parents, but if they strive to make you join with Me (in worship) anything (as a partner) of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not. Unto Me is your return, and I shall tell you what you used to do.

There are times when parents force their sons or daughters to worship others besides Allah.  They still have to behave nicely to their parents but they do not have to set rivals to Allah as their parents suggested.  Especially, when they reached old age, to serve them kindly is a path to paradise on the day of judgement.   Imam Muslim reported that the Prophet (Sal.) said, " May he be humiliated, (He said this three times), who found his parents, one or both, in old age, but did not enter paradise, (by serving them)."  

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And be kind to our parents is a must even if they are disbelievers.   Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that Asma', daughter of Abu-Bakr said, "My mother came to Medina from Mecca to see me, while she was still a disbeliever. She had come to demand something from me. I inquired the Prophet (Sal.), "My mother has come to see me and she is expecting, something from me. May I oblige her?" He said, "Yes. Be kind to your mother."
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Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that Prophet (Sal) said, "cursing one’s parents is a major sin." The companions said, "O Messenger of Allah! Could a person curse his own parents? He answered, "Yes, if he curses another persons father, which would make a person in retaliation curse his father.”

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The right of the parents after their death is to supplicate for Allah’s forgiveness for them and fulfilling their wills. We should also keep good relations with our parents’ blood relatives and to be benevolent towards their friends. 

Miracle of Allah

Khutbah Haroon Mosque 

 

       Friday  January 21^st: 2011

Brothers and Sisters, 

      From the Names of Allah (Sub) "Arrahman and Arrahim" the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful, is an important aspect in the mind of all the Muslims. Allah’s (Sub) Mercy is a beautiful and reassuring concept of relationship between Allah (Sub) and His servants.

 
وَاكْتُبْ لَنَا فِي هَٰذِهِ الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ إِنَّا هُدْنَا إِلَيْكَ ۚ قَالَ عَذَابِي أُصِيبُ بِهِ مَنْ أَشَاءُ ۖ وَرَحْمَتِي وَسِعَتْ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ ۚ فَسَأَكْتُبُهَا لِلَّذِينَ يَتَّقُونَ وَيُؤْتُونَ الزَّكَاةَ وَالَّذِينَ هُم بِآيَاتِنَا يُؤْمِنُونَ

Surah Al-A’raf 7:156 “And ordain for us good in this world, and in the Hereafter. Certainly we have turned unto You." He said: (As to) My Punishment I afflict therewith whom I will and My Mercy embraces all things. That (Mercy) I shall ordain for those who are the Muttaqun (pious - see V.2:2), and give Zakat; and those who believe in Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs and revelations, etc.);

      The Mercy of Allah is of a magnitude that we can not measure.  Imam Bukhari and Muslim reported that the prophet (Sal) said, "Allah has divided mercy into one hundred parts, and He kept ninety-nine parts with Him and sent down one part on the earth, and because of that, one single part, His creatures are merciful to each other….” 

 
 وَلَقَدْ كَرَّمْنَا بَنِي آدَمَ وَحَمَلْنَاهُمْ فِي الْبَرِّ وَالْبَحْرِ وَرَزَقْنَاهُم مِّنَ الطَّيِّبَاتِ وَفَضَّلْنَاهُمْ عَلَىٰ كَثِيرٍ مِّمَّنْ خَلَقْنَا تَفْضِيلًا

Surah Al-Isra’ 17:70 And indeed We have honoured the Children of Adam, and We have carried them on land and sea, and have provided them with At-Taiyibat (lawful good things), and have preferred them above many of those whom We have created with a marked preferment.
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      Allah (Sub) Appoint man as vicegerent on Earth.  Allah (Sub) the Most Merciful Sent down Books and Messengers to lead man to the right path.  Man can acquire knowledge and enlighten his mind that can lead him to the straight path.  And Allah (Sub) Bestow the comprehensive and complete Islamic legislation that would keep man away from hardship and misery. Allah’s mercy is Overlook the sins of sinner who repent.  Allah (Sub.) changes his sins, after his sincere repentance followed by righteous deeds, to good deeds (hasanat).  All this is to prevent the sinners from feeling hopeless of the mercy of Allah (Sub).

إِلَّا مَن تَابَ وَآمَنَ وَعَمِلَ عَمَلًا صَالِحًا فَأُولَٰئِكَ يُبَدِّلُ اللَّهُ سَيِّئَاتِهِمْ حَسَنَاتٍ ۗ وَكَانَ اللَّهُ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا

Surah Al-Furqan 25:70 Except those who repent and believe (in Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds, for those, Allah will change their sins into good deeds, and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

      . Imam Buhkari and Muslim reported that the prophet (Sal.) said, "Allah ordered (the appointed angels over you) how to write the good and the bad deeds. If someone intends to do a good deed and he does not do it, then he gets a full good deed; and if he intends to do a good deed and actually did it, then he gets from ten to seven hundred times to many more times. And If someone intends to do a bad deed and he does not do it, then he gets one good deed, and if he intends to do a bad deed and actually did it, then Allah will write for him one bad deed." Also, Allah (Sub.) erases the sin with the good deed.

 
وَأَقِمِ الصَّلَاةَ طَرَفَيِ النَّهَارِ وَزُلَفًا مِّنَ اللَّيْلِ ۚ إِنَّ الْحَسَنَاتِ يُذْهِبْنَ السَّيِّئَاتِ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ ذِكْرَىٰ لِلذَّاكِرِينَ

Surah Hud 11:114 And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e. the five compulsory Salat (prayers)]. Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). That is a reminder (an advice) for the mindful (those who accept advice).

      The prophet (Sal.) made utmost effort to clarify the reality of the Mercy of Allah (Sub) with His servants so that Muslims will be merciful among one another and be merciful with others, and know that this mercy is the way to gain the Mercy of Allah (Sub.). Imam Abu Dawud, At-Tirmithi reported that the prophet (Sal.) said: "The merciful people will have mercy bestowed upon them by Allah (Sub.). Be merciful with those on earth, so He who in the heaven (Allah) will have mercy on you." Imam Bukhari, Muslim and At-Tirmithi reported that the prophet (Sal) said: "Allah will not have mercy on the one who does not have mercy on people." The Prophet (Sal) said “Allah (Sub) will forgive a fornicating woman for her kindness with a thirsty dog, because she gave it water to drink.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

Congregational prayer and manner in Islam

Khutbah Haroon Mosque

       Friday  January 14^th. 2011



Brothers and Sisters,
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مَا كَانَ لِيَ مِنْ عِلْمٍ بِالْمَلَإِ الْأَعْلَىٰ إِذْ يَخْتَصِمُونَ

Surah Sad 38:69 "I had no knowledge of the chiefs (angels) on high when they were disputing and discussing (about the creation of Adam).

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      Rasullulah (Sal) had not heard anything about the disputes among the Angels.  He knew only what had been revealed to him.   Related to the above verse and the knowledge revealed to Rasullulah (Sal), Imam At-Tirmithi reported that Prophet Muhammad (Sal) said:   “The deeds that wipe out the sins are walking for the congregational prayer, remaining still in the masjid after the prayers, and making a lengthy ablution in times of hardship.", and he continued "providing food to the people, gentle talk, and the prayer at night while the people are asleep."  This Hadith also shows the importance of righteous deeds that Allah (Sub) wipes out sins and wrongdoings, and elevates with them to higher degrees on the Day of Judgment. 

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    The first good deed is the steps that a Muslim takes toward the masjid for the prayer in jama'ah congregational prayer.  The more steps he takes toward the masjid, the more benefits he gets from this good deed in wiping out the sins. Prophet Muhammad (Sal) recommended to the people of Bani Salamah when they wanted to relocate closer to the masjid that they should remain in their places and do not leave, they will have more rewards in coming to the masjid. 

Next is remaining in the masjid after the prayers to remember Allah (Sub) or waiting for the next prayer. Reported by Imam Bukhari that Rasullulah (Sal) said: "....If a man prays, the angels keep praying upon him as long as he is in the prayer location, saying: Oh Allah pray onto him, Oh Allah have mercy on him." Then the prophet (Sal) added: "The one among you who is waiting for prayer is considered to be in prayer."

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    Prophet Muhammad  (Sal) reconfirmed to his companions that: "Would I not show you what wipes out the sins and elevates to higher degrees?" they replied: "Yes, Oh messenger of Allah.", he said: "Making lengthy wudu' in times of hardships, taking many steps to the masjid, and waiting for the next salat after a salat, and this is the Ribat (Guarding land against enemies)." Reported by Imam Muslim.
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وَيُطْعِمُونَ الطَّعَامَ عَلَىٰ حُبِّهِ مِسْكِينًا وَيَتِيمًا وَأَسِيرًا

Surah Al-Insan 76:8 And they give food, inspite of their love for it (or for the love of Him), to Miskin (poor), the orphan, and the captive,

      Offering food to the people imply to everyone poor or non-poor.  If it is for the poor, it would be better.  Rasullulah (Sal) said: “"Oh people, convey my salam, and offer food and pray at night while people are asleep, you will enter Paradise peacefully." Imam At-Tirmithi reported.

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    As to gentle talk with people, this was from the manners of the prophet (Sal) who orders us to follow him. It is general with Muslims and non-Muslims even with the enemies. As in a case when Mushrikeen suggested Rasullulah (Sal) to a compromised plan that Rasullulah (Sal) worship their gods along with them for one year and in return they will worship Allah (Sub) along with Rasullulah (Sal) for one year too.  Rasullulah (Sal) made no reply until Surah Al-Kafirun 109. was revealed to him and that was a gentle but firm rejection.

 

Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:17-18
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كَانُوا قَلِيلًا مِّنَ اللَّيْلِ مَا يَهْجَعُونَ

17: They used to sleep but little by night [invoking their Lord (Allah) and praying, with fear and hope].

وَبِالْأَسْحَارِ هُمْ يَسْتَغْفِرُونَ

18 : And in the hours before dawn, they were (found) asking (Allah) for forgiveness, Offering night prayer or plan to do good deed at night is much better than joining in idle activities.  And offering prayer before dawn is good for asking forgiveness.

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Imam Muslim reported that Prophet Muhammad (Sal) said: "....The best prayer after the obligatory prayer is the night prayer."

Understanding and reflecting of the Quran

Haroon Mosque Khutbah 

                                               

                                                                Friday  January 7^th. 2011

Brothers and Sisters,    

Taqwa of Allah (Sub) means: taking protection from the anger of Allah (Sub) and His punishment.  By doing what Allah (Sub) Command and refraining from what Allah (Sub) Forbid.  Obeying Allah (Sub) is to increase genuine love of Allah (Sub) as well as genuine fear of Him. 

      Reciting Al-Quran and reflecting upon its meanings and implementing its verses is the way to achieve Taqwa of Allah (Sub).

Surah Al-Baqarah 2:121.
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Those (who embraced Islam from Bani Israel) to whom We gave the Book [the Taurat (Torah)] [or those (Muhammad's Peace be upon him companions) to whom We have given the Book (the Quran)] recite it (i.e. obey its orders and follow its teachings) as it should be recited (i.e. followed), they are the ones that believe therein. And whoso disbelieves in it (the Quran), those are they who are the losers. (Tafsir Al-Qurtubi).

      Umar (rd) said: “They (the ones who recite Al-Quran) are the ones who, when they pass by a verse of mercy, asked it from Allah (Sub), and when they pass by a verse of punishment, they seek refuge from it, like the Prophet Muhammad (Sal) used to do.

Surah Fatir 35:28.

And likewise, men and Ad-Dawabb [moving (living) creatures, beasts] and cattle are of various colours. It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah. Verily, Allah is All-Mighty, Oft-Forgiving.
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      The companions of Rasulullah (Sal) when they received Al-Quran they recited and implemented it in their way of life and because of doing this they achieved great benefits in life.  Their lives changed from being the ignorant nation they became the best generation.  Even non-Muslim writers acknowledge the achievements of the companions of the Prophet Muhammad (Sal).

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     Muslims today also recite Al-Quran frequently with less positive effects due to lacking of pondering its meaning and emphasizing only on the pronunciations. It is only half done. It is also necessary to understand the Halal and Haram, and the verses of glad tidings of Paradise and the verses of warning of Hell Fire etc.

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      May be we are weak in the belief and because of absent-mindedness when reciting Al-Quran.  Another drawback is weakness in Arabic language.  Many native Arabs still do not understand many words in Al-Quran and for non-Arabic it is even worse.  To solve this problem we should refer to more than one translation. 

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      Allah (Sub) Remind us about Allah’s Attributes and His Existence and Allah (Sub) also Challenge the human race to find a reason not to believe in Allah (Sub). 

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Surah Ar-Rahman 55:13.


Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you both (jinns and men) deny?
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Allah Teach Al-Quran with His Mercy.  Allah Create man and Teach man his eloquent.  All the planets, stars and Galaxies travel according to the Command of Allah. The earth is grounded for creatures and plants and fragrances.  Then Allah ask: “Which of the Blessings of your Lord will you both deny?” The meaning is after all the kindness that Allah (Sub) Bestow to mankind, is there any reason for a man to disbelieve?  Allah (Sub) Ask this question 31 times in this Surah.  And the answer is none to disbelieve.  Indeed, reciting Al-Quran comprehensively leads to Taqwa of Allah (Sub), and every verse in Al-Quran increases the belief of the believers.

Religion and Celebrations

Haroon Mosque Khutbah

                                                           Friday  December 31^th. 2010

Brothers and Sisters,  

Every nation in the world has her holidays and celebrations that are characteristics or landmark of that nation.  Of course, there are reasons behind every celebration.  Songkran or water festival refers to the commencement of new agricultural season and Thai New Year.  Islam prohibits any act of worship according to the methods of Unbelievers. It depends on your judgment and Islamic Scholar to see whether the activity is or is not against any act of worship the Oneness of Allah.

      There is a great mix-up between religious holidays and celebrations that have no Islamic foundation.  It is worsening when some of these non-religious functions take on a religious appearance, which made it very hard for any common Muslim to distinguish between what is authentic and what is not. And sometimes, Muslims think that these unauthentic celebrations are an essential part of Islam.
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Surah An-Nur 24 : 47-48 and 51-47 : They (hypocrites) say: "We have believed in Allah and in the Messenger (Muhammad Sal.), and we obey," then a party of them turn away thereafter, such are not believers. 48 : And when they are called to Allah (i.e. His Words, the Quran) and His Messenger (Sal), to judge between them, lo! a party of them refuse (to come) and turns away.   51 : The only saying of the faithful believers, when they are called to Allah (His Words, the Quran) and His Messenger (Sal), to judge between them, is that they say: "We hear and we obey." And such are the successful (who will live forever in Paradise).
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      We can tell that a celebration is an act of ebadah (worship) in Islam.  Imams An Nasa’i and Ibn Hibban reported and narrated by Anas that when The Prophet (Sal.) came to Madinah and saw people have two days in celebrations.  The Prophet (Sal.) said: "Allah (Sub.) did replace these two holidays with better ones. The day of Fitr (after the month of Ramadan) and the day of sacrifice (in the pilgrimage season)."

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      Also Imam Muslim reported that the Prophet (Sal) used to say :"The best of the speech is embodied in the Book of Allah, and the best of the guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad. And the most evil affairs are their innovations; and every innovation is straying away from the guidance."

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       Is celebrating the messenger’s birthday a proof of our love for him? If the answer is "yes" then how come that none of the companions of the prophet or even the guided Caliphs after him celebrated his birthday? They were the most loving and respected to the prophet (Sal.). They showed their love and respect, however, in a different way. They followed his example in every aspect of their lives. This is the true celebration. We can show our love and respect the same way good companions did.

Surah An-Nur 24 : 36. In houses (mosques), which Allah has ordered to be raised (to be cleaned, and to be honoured), in them His Name is glorified in the mornings and in the afternoons or the evenings,

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     We are ordered to celebrate Allah’s Name and Glorify Him. So let’s see why in Thailand there is an official birth day celebration for Prophet Muhammad (Sal).  In the past when Thai Muslims were not well accepted and recognized in the eyes of the Government servants, things seemed to be difficult.  Therefore, a group of prominent Muslims in Thailand suggested hosting a grand celebration of Prophet in the distinguished place like palace.  His Majesty the King or His Royal Highness also presided at the ceremony.  Since then, Thai Muslims receive better treatment. And the relationship between the Thai Buddhists and Muslims are very much improved.  This is a valuable tradition that has been functioning till today.