The Ramadan Daily Message

‫بســــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــم ال الرحـــمــن الرحيـم‬
The Ramadan Daily Message

Vol. 5 Aug. 11th. 2010/ Ramadan 1st 1431 H No. 1
Ramadan has Begun

It is the present from Allah carries all the means of becoming nearer to Allah. It is only once chance
per year. No one knows if he will be alive or witness next Ramadan or not. That is why we should take
the chance of this Ramadan and offer our selves to be covered by the mercy of Allah and compete for
good deeds.
Before drawing our goals let us remember that:
1. We would like to continue our behaviour on Istiqama and high spirit to do good deeds after
Ramadan.
2. To continue our behaviour on Istiqama after Ramadan, it is important to really increase our
Iman.
3. Two persons may stand in front of Allah in the same row for prayer but the difference in their
prayer is like the difference between the heaven and the earth. These differences are not because
of the differences in body movements but because of the differences in Iman and Khoshoo of their
hearts.
“It is not their meat nor their blood, that reaches Allah: it is your piety that reaches Him” [Al-
Hajj:37]
4. Allah Subhanahu Wataala likes our hearts to be present during our Obedience.
5. The obedience with the presence of heart will be more rewarded In shaa Allah than its absence.
6. If a man has presented for a king many jewels but false and bad; while another man has
presented for the king only one jewel that is real and good; who of them, the two men, will
deserve the love of the king? Be nearer to the king? Be given a lot from him?
If this is the situation, what should be our goals when Ramadan visits us? do you agree with me that
the most important goal should be the revival of the heart and filling it with Iman so that Istiqma
would be continued after Ramadan? Quraan describes this goal:
“O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may
(learn) self-restraint”, [Al-Baqara: 183].
Self-restraining is a sign of alive heart and full of Iman. Let us do our best to attain this goal in
Ramadan.
Ramadan Competition (1)

Allah does not shy to make an example in the form of mosquitoes or lower than that, and by it, someone
mislead, but another one guided.
In the 1st chapter (juz) of Quran, there is one verse mention the same meaning. Mention the name of the
Surah and the number of this verse.
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‫بســــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــم ال الرحـــمــن الرحيـم‬

Vol. 5 Aug. 12th. 2010/ Ramadan 2nd 1431 H No. 2
The Great Virtue of Ramadan

Ramadhan leader of all months; the month of forgiveness, merits and gifts; the month
that gladdens the hearts of righteous people. No wonder that a pious man said on his
death bed, giving a reason for his weeping, “I am only weeping for the fact that people
will continue to be fasting and performing prayers after my death while I will no longer
be in a position to do likewise.” Ramadhan is the month that contains the leader of all
nights; a night that is better than a thousand months. Whoever spends the night in
prayer with faith and hoping for Allah's reward will have all his past sins forgiven. The
Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “When the month of Ramadhan
begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are
chained.” [Reported by Bukhari and Muslim]
Whoever wants eternal prosperity should Endeavour to worship Allah and do good deeds
sincerely. For good deeds done without a sincere intention are of no use. Also, it is a glory
for a believer to wake up in the night and perform prayers, for the best prayer after the
obligatory ones are the prayers performed in the night. In fact, righteous people compete
with one other to make use of its darkness for doing acts of ibadah that bring them closer
to Allah, and they loved this world only because of its nights. Abu Sulayman Ad-Daranee
said, “By Allah! If not because of waking up in the night and performing prayers, I would
not have loved this world; for, the night is precious because of its darkness and
performing the prayers during the night is one of the characteristics of righteous people.”
Al-Hasan Al-Basree said, “Nobody abandons night prayers except that it is regarded as a
punishment for a sin he has committed.” You should also endeavour to supplicate to
Allah during the nights of this noble month because supplication is the link between man
and his Lord; it is an effortlessly clear profit and easy booty; it prevents calamities and
brings forth Allah's treasures and bounties. By supplicating to Allah during the night, He
answers by granting the request asked for. His Hands never get tired of giving.
Muslim recorded that the Prophet said:(The supplication of the servant will be accepted as long as he does
not supplicate for what includes sin, or cutting the relations of the womb, and as long as he does not become
hasty.) He was asked, "O Messenger of Allah! How does one become hasty" He said, (He says, 'I supplicated
and supplicated, but I do not see that my supplication is being accepted from me.' He thus looses interest
and abandons supplicating (to Allah)).
In the 2nd chapter (juz) of Quran, there is one verse mention the same meaning. Mention the name of the
Surah and the number of this verse.
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‫بســــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــم ﷲ الرحـــمــن الرحيـم‬

Vol. 5 Aug. 13rd 2010/Ramadan 3rd 1431 H No. 3
The School Named Ramadan
Holy month Ramadan is full of nuances of education, so worthy when called Syahrut Tarbiyah or
Educational Month. Among the educational values that we can gain from this month are:
1. Self Control
Fasting refrain us from eating, drinking, sexual relationships and all that may broke the fast, from dawn until
sunset. This is an exercise in self-control from low-worldly passions, which is very important as the success
in the world and the hereafter could only be obtained with self-control.
“Men whom neither trade nor sale (business) diverts them from the Remembrance of Allâh (with heart and
tongue), nor from performing As¬Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), nor from giving the Zakât. They fear a Day when
hearts and eyes will be overturned (out of the horror of the torment of the Day of Resurrection).”
(QS. 24:37)
2. Self-purification
Fasting trains us to keep ourselves from forbidden vision, words, feelings, and even sexual desire. This is an
exercise to cleanse and purify ourselves to become Mutathahhiriin, free from disobedience.
"Truly he succeeds that purifies it, And he fails that corrupts it!" (QS. 91:9-10)
3. Taqorrub Ilallah (Getting Closer to Allah)

Qiyamul Lail which is much recommended in Ramadan is one form of taqorrub ilallaah, getting closer to
Allah, make direct communication with Allah.
"And those who spend the night in worship of their Lord, prostrate and standing." (QS. 25:64)
4. Quran Recitations
It is advisable to augment reading the Qur'an, which could increase the spiritual potential, enlighten our
thought, better understanding of the sentence of Allah.
"He it is Who sent among the unlettered ones a Messenger (Muhammad SAW) from among themselves,
reciting to them His Verses, purifying them (from the filth of disbelief and polytheism), and teaching them
the Book (this Qur'ân, Islâmic laws and Islâmic jurisprudence) and Al-Hikmah (As-Sunnah: legal ways,
orders, acts of worship, of Prophet Muhammad SAW). And verily, they had been before in mainfest error"
(QS. 62:2)
Those are the educational values that we can get from the school named Ramadan.
You will not attain righteousness and piety until you spend of that which you love (wealth, efforts, time …)
for the sake of Allah. Allah Know very well what you spend for his sake even minute thing.
Mention the name of the Surah and the number of the verse where similar meaning was mentioned in
the third chapter of Quran.
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Vol. 5 Aug. 14th 2010/Ramadan 4th 1431 H No. 4
10 Great Goals to Set for This Ramadan
1. Eat, drink and be moderate
Let's try to stick to the Prophetic rule on eating: fill our stomachs with one-third food, one-third
water and one-third breathing space, even in Ramadan.
2. Give 100 yen a day in charity...or 500 yen or more
The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, was always generous but even more so
in Ramadan. Whatever you can give, which is calculated is our intention.
3. Read one chapter of the Quran
Quran a day and try to finish it during Ramadan.
Find and make your special time to read Quran. And use your travel time to campus on the train or
bus to read even only 5 minutes.
4. Go to Tarawih prayers
Praying alone is wonderful, but doing it in congregation is fantastic. The community spirit is part of
Ramadan's blessings.
5. Attend the Tarawih prayer in which the recitation of the Quran will be finished
Some masjid or communities have the habit to finish Quran during Tarawih prayer.
6. Stop swearing and/or backbiting – with a special box
Get a box and every time you catch yourself swearing or backbiting put some money in it. It could
be a buck or less. At the end of the month send the money to a charity or buy a gift for the person
whom you've backbitten the most against.
7. Call/email your relatives
Strengthening ties with family members and keeping in touch with friends is part of our way of life
and an act Allah is very pleased with. This Ramadan, call family and friends or at least email them.
8. Go on a technology diet
Avoid checking personal email and surfing the web too frequently during your fast.
9. Memorize 4 new Surahs
Try to memorize one new Surah a week. Start off with a short, easy one.
10. Forgive everyone who has hurt you
Let go of the anger and pain this Ramadan and forgive those who have hurt you.
Muslim recorded Abu Hurayrah saying that the Messenger of Allah said, "We (Muslims) are the last (to
come), but (will be) the foremost on the Day of Resurrection, and will be the first people to enter
Paradise..." until the end of the Hadith. This Hadith conform that Ummat Muhammad are the best of
peoples.
the fourth chapter of the Quran.
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Ramadan, the Month of Quran
Ramadan is known as the Month of the Quran. It is the month of the Quran both in revelation and
propagation. In this month the angel Jibril first descended to Rasool ul Allah (saaw) carrying the Wahyu
(Divine Inspiration) or Quran. This was the point source of all greatness and honor. Life without the Quran
is like vegetation without water. Quran is a source of true healing and mercy.
Allah says:“And We send down from the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe.
And it (the Quran) increases the Zalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers) nothing but loss.” (QS. Al-Isra
17:82)
Several kinds of interaction between us and Quran:
1. Physical Interaction
Only use Quran as decoration, one of collection in bookshelf without read or understanding it.
2. Emotional Interaction
No reading, no memorizing and no practice on it, but if Quran is insulted, he will stand up to defend it.
3. Spiritual Interaction
There is strong spiritual bond between Quran and himself. The values of the Quran had been residing in
his heart, and he feels a peaceful soul. This is the good interaction.
4. Da’iyah & Activity Interaction
Not only spiritual interaction, but he also practices the values of the Quran in his daily life. He also
makes da’wah (preaches) with the values of Quran. Make Quran as his way of life. This is the highest
level of interaction with Quran.
By reading it everyday, try to memorize it, try to understand it, apply it in our daily life, and make da’wah
with it, may Allah help us to achieve the higher level of interaction by this Ramadan, the month of Quran.

Allah mentions about obeying Him and His Messenger, like - “O ye who believe! Obey Allah, and obey the
Messenger, and those charged with authority among you. If ye differ in anything among yourselves, refer it
to Allah and His Messenger, if ye do believe in Allah and the Last Day: That is best, and most suitable for
final determination.”
the 5th chapter of the Quran.
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Ramadan, the Month of Night Prayers
"O you who have wrapped up in your garments! Rise to pray in the night except a little,
Half of it or lessen it a little," (QS. Al-Muzammil: 1-3)
Rasool ul Allah (saaw) said: “The one who stands (for night prayers) during the (whole) month of Ramadan
with Iman and Ihtisab (counting on Allah to Reward Him), his previous evil deeds shall be forgiven.”
‘Umar bin Al-Khattab (ra) having understood the importance of night prayers, especially in Ramadan,
ordered ‘Ubai bin Ka‘b (ra) and Tammim ad-Dari (ra) to lead the people in prayer during the month of
Ramadan. They would recite more than two hundred verses in each prostration. They would lead the people
in prayer until Salah tul Fajr was upon them. It is important to point out that if the Imam of the congregation
realizes that the congregation is not fit for such rigorous endeavors, he should make it easier for them.
Ahmed bin Hanbal (ra) said: “The people today are weak, read five, six or seven (verses per prostration).”
Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of
Allaah be upon him) used to encourage us to pray at night in Ramadaan, without making it obligatory. Then
he said, ‘Whoever prays at night in Ramadaan out of faith and the hope of reward, all his previous sins will
be forgiven.’ When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) died, this is how
things were (i.e., Taraaweeh was not prayed in congregation), and this is how they remained during the
khilaafah of Abu Bakr (may Allaah be pleased with him), until the beginning of the khilaafah of ‘Umar
(may Allaah be pleased with him).”
Prophet Musa (a.s) has virtue that Allah spoke to him directly. This is why he is called the Kalim.
Mention the name of the Surah and the number of the verse mentioned about it in the 6th chapter of
the Quran.


Ramadan, the Month of Charity and Generosity
Ramadan is also the month of charity and generosity. The Prophet Muhammad said, “…Whoever draws
nearer (to Allah) by performing any of the (optional) good deeds in (this month), shall receive the same
reward as performing an obligatory deed at any other time; and whoever performs an obligatory deed in
(this month), shall receive the reward of performing seventy obligations at any other time. It is the month of
patience, and the reward of patience is Paradise. It is the month of charity, and a month in which a
believer’s sustenance is increased. Whoever gives food to a fasting person to break his fast shall have his
sins forgiven, and he will be saved from the Hell-Fire, and he shall have the same reward as the fasting
person, without his reward being diminished at all.” (Reported by Ibn Khuzaymah)
Ibn Àbbas, one of the Prophet’s Companions, narrated: “The Prophet was the most generous amongst the
people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadan when Jibreel visited him, and Jibreel used to
meet him on every night of Ramadan till the end of the month. The Prophet used to recite the Holy Qur’an to
Jibreel, and when Jibreel met him, he used to be more generous than a fast wind (which causes rain and
welfare).” (Reported by Al-Bukhari)
Thus Muslims should try to give generously in Ramadan, both sadaqah (optional charity) and zakat al-mal
(obligatory charity). Sadaqah does not only have to be money. It can also be a good deed—such as helping
another person—done for the sake of Allah and without expecting any reward from the person. Even a smile
is considered charity in Islam .
And because of the great reward for feeding a fasting person, in many places iftar (the break-fast meal at
sunset) is served in mosques, with the food donated or brought by individuals to share pot-luck style. Such
traditions will also build a sense of brotherhood and unity in the community. However, sometimes this
generosity is exaggerated so that Ramadan becomes a month of lavish tables and overeating. This goes
against the spirit of Ramadan and should be avoided.
Allah gave some miracles and extraordinary to Prophet Iesa (Jesus) (a.s) such as could speak in the cradle,
make life bird from the clay, healed the born blind, and the lepers, etc.
Mention the name of the Surah and the number of the verse mentioned about it in the 7th chapter of
the Quran.


Ramadan, the Month of Brotherhood
And hold fast, all together, by the Rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided
among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah's favour on you; for ye were enemies and He
joined your hearts in love. (QS. 3:103)
“Fasting in Ramadan develops in a person the real spirit of social belonging, of unity and brotherhood, and
of equality before God. This spirit is the natural product of the fact that when people fast they feel
that they are joining the whole Muslim society (which makes up more than one fifth of world’s population)
in observing the same duty, in the same manner, at the same time, for the same motives, and for the same
end. No sociologist or historian can say that there has been at any period of history anything comparable to
this powerful institution of Islam: Fasting in the month of Ramadan. People have been crying throughout
the ages for acceptable ‘belonging’, for unity, for brotherhood, for equality, but how echoless their
voices have been, and how very little success they have met…”
Fasting is an institution for the improvement of moral and spiritual character of human being. The purpose
of the fast is to help develop self-restraint, self-purification, God-consciousness, compassion, the spirit
of caring and sharing, the love of humanity and the love of God. Fasting is a universal custom and is
advocated by all the religions of the world, with more restrictions in some than in others. The Islamic Fast,
as opposed to mere starvation or self-denial, is an act of worship and obedience to God, thanksgiving,
forgiveness, spiritual training, and self-examination.
In a nutshell, even though the real purpose of the dynamic institution of Fasting is to discipline our
soul and moral behavior, and to develop sympathy for the less fortunate, it is a multi-functional and a
comprehensive tool of change in various spheres of our lives, including: social and economic, intellectual
and humanitarian, spiritual and physical, private and public, personal and common, inner and outer ---
all in one!

Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal recorded that Ibn Àbbas said that the Messenger of Allah said about his Lord,
“Your Lord is Most Merciful. Whoever intends to perform a good deed and does not do it, it will be written
for him as a good deed. If he performs it, it will be written for him as ten deeds, to seven hundred, to
multifold. Whoever intends to commit an evil deed, but does not do it, it will be written for him as a good
deed. If he commits it, it will be written for him as a sin, unless Allah erases it. Only those who deserve
destruction will be destroyed by Allah.”
Mention the name of the Surah and the number of the verse mentioned about similar thing in the 8th
chapter of the Quran.


The Benefits of Fasting
Fasting is a great religious and spiritual act. Its purpose is to teach us self-discipline, piety and consciousness
of Allah. It teaches patience and forbearance. It also teaches consideration, kindness and charity to the poor
and needy.
Fasting has two aspects:
1. To leave food, drink and a few other things that the Shari’ah tells us to avoid during fasting.
2. To avoid everything that displeases Allah. To avoid sins altogether and to live the life of Taqwa
(God consciousness) always.
Fasting has many benefits:
1. It purifies the soul and is healthy for the body.
2. It teaches self-control.
3. It creates the love of Allah and the awareness of His presence with us.
4. It elevates the human beings from mere animal existence to the angelic existence.
5. It turns away the Shaitan from a person.
6. It increases the sympathy with the poor and needy and increases the feeling of charity and generosity
towards them.
7. It motivates a person to do more good deeds.
8. It pleases Allah and it assures us of His forgiveness and Mercy in this life and in the hereafter.

Many of the jinns and mankind will enter the 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, or even worse.


Morals of Fasting
1. Hastening in breaking the fast:

Sahl ibn Sa`d reported that the Prophet said: "The people will always be with the good as long as they hasten
in breaking the fast."
Anas reported: “The Messenger of Allah would break his fast with ripe dates before he would pray. If those
were not available, he would eat dried dates. If those were not available, he would drink some water.”
Sulaiman ibn Àmr reported that the Prophet said: “If one of you is fasting, he should break his fast with
dates. If dates are not available, then with water, for water is purifying.”
2-Supplications while breaking the fast and while fasting:

Ibn Majah related from Àbdullah ibn Àmr ibnul-Àas that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him,
said: “A fasting person, upon breaking his fast, has a supplication that will not be rejected. When 'Abdullah
broke his fast he would say: "O Allah, I ask of You, by Your mercy that encompasses everything, to
forgive me."
It is confirmed that the Prophet would say: “The thirst has gone, the glands are wet and, Allah willing, the
reward is confirmed.”
At-Tirmidhi recorded, with a good chain, that the Prophet said: "Three people will not have their
supplications rejected: a fasting person until he breaks his fast, a just ruler, and an oppressed person."
3-Avoiding Unbecoming Actions:

Abu Hurairah also reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “Allah does not need
the fast of one who does not abandon false speech or acting according to his false speech.” (Related by the
group, except for Muslim.)
4-Being generous and studying the Quràn:

Al-Bukhari recorded that Ibn Àbbas said: "The Prophet was the most generous of people, but he would be
his most generous during Ramadan when he would meet with [the angel] Gabriel. He would meet with him
every night and recite the Qur'an. When Gabriel met him, he used to be more generous than a fast wind."
5-Striving to perform as many acts of worship as possible during the last ten days of Ramadan:
Al-Bukhari and Muslim record from À’ishah that during the last ten days of Ramadan, the Messenger of
Allah would wake his wives up during the night and then remain apart from them (that is, being busy in acts
of worship).
A version in Muslim states: "He would strive [to do acts of worship] during the last ten days of Ramadan
more than he would at any other time." At-Tirmidhi also recorded this from Àli

Allah affirms His perfect justice and fairness in His decisions, for He decided that He will not change a
bounty that He has granted someone, except on account of an evil that they committed.


Misunderstanding the True Meaning of Fasting
Abu Huraira narrated the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) as saying: Ä lot of people
observing fasting get nothing but hunger and thirst from their fasting” (An Nasai; Shahih al Jaami´ 3490).
This is a hard warning from the Prophet (may peace be upon him) that many people misunderstand the true
meaning of the fasting. They think that to observe fasting means only to avoid eating and drinking from the
beginning of dawn to sunset.
Unfortunately, they are wrong. What we must keep in mind is that all about fasting is not only to prevent
consuming food and drink during daylights. The ultimate goal of fasting is to make believing people self-
restrain. The Quran says: Ö ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those
before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint ¨(Al Baqarah[2]:183). The Prophet (peace of Allah be upon
him) said, ¨Fasting is a shield¨ (Shahih al Bukhari). It means that fasting is a shield from committing sins.
Thus, the true meaning of fasting is to restrain ourselves from committing sins. Of course, to avoid
eating and drinking is necessary to fulfill the obligation of fasting, but it is not enough to reach the ultimate
goal of fasting, namely taqwa (self-restrain). We need not only to pay attention to our food and drink, but
also to our feeling, words, and acts. Therefore, people that really understand the meaning of their fasting will
do the following acts.
1. Protecting their eyes from gazing any unlawfully thing
The Quran says : ¨Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that
will make for greater purity for them: And Allah is well acquainted with all that they do¨ (An Nuur[24]:30)
2. Preventing their tongues from telling a lie or backbiting.
Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: Ïf one does not abandon
falsehood and other actions like it, God has no need that one should abandon one's food and drink¨ (Sahih
al Bukhari)
3. Preventing their ears from listening to backbiting person
Someone will not backbite others alone. He will do it only if there is somebody else listening to him and
supporting him. Thus, both the backbiter and the listener to him are committing sin.
4. Preventing themselves from foolish behaviors and from fighting against others
Abu Huraira also narrated Allah´s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying:¨..The person observing
fasting should avoid sexual relation with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if
somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should tell him twice, 'I am fasting´....¨ (Sahih al Bukhari)
5. Being always fearful and hopeful
They are never be confident that their fasting has been perfect. They regard themselves as sinful slaves.
Therefore, they always fear Allah´s anger and hope for His forgiveness and mercy.
People who misunderstand the true meaning of fasting will observe fasting but they keep telling a lie,
backbiting, or fighting with others. They observe fasting carelessly, but they are sure that their fasting will
be accepted by Allah. They destroy their own fasting so that Allah will neither accept their fasting nor
granted them with ajr. This is the meaning of what the Prophet (may peace be upon him) warned us. We
seek refuge in our Lord from being part of them.
The Prophet Muhammad (may peace be upon him) is full of concern and mercy to his ummah.


The Merits of Reciting and Learning Quran
Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance
and judgment (Between right and wrong)--The Quran, Al Baqarah[2]:185
Because of His mercy, Allah the Almighty sent us the Holy Quran in Ramadhan. Allah wanted us not to go astray. He
gives us a guide to lead us the right way. Ramadhan is the best moment to learn the wonderful guidance of Him.
Ramadhan is the most valuable chance to recite the beautiful verses that lead thousands of people to tears and ecstasy.
My brothers, Allah the Merciful has provided great merits for us if we recites and learns the Holy Quran for the sake
of Him.
1. Allah will grant us wages of a sure trade

Trading is always a matter of possibility. Someone who trades with people always has possibility both to gain benefit
and get loss. However, this is not the case when he trades with Allah. If he trades with Allah by reciting the Quran,
performing prayers, and spending in charity for the sake of Allah, he will certainly get benefit from Allah.
The Quran says: "Verily, those who recite the Book of Allaah (this Quran), and perform As-Salaat, and spend (in
charity) out of what We have provided for them, secretly and openly, hope for a (sure) trade that will never perish.
That He may pay them their wages in full, and give them (even) more, out of His Grace. Verily! He is Oft-Forgiving,
Most Ready to appreciate (good deeds and to recompense.)" (Fathir[35]:29-30)
2. We will be the best of people
‘Utsman bin Áffan narrated the Prophet (may peace be upon him) as saying: “The best of you are the ones who learn
the Qur’an and teach it to others” (Shahih Bukhari)
3. We will get reward for each letter
The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said“Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah, he will have a
hasanah (reward). And that hasanah will be multiplied by ten. I am not saying that “Alif, Laam, Meem” is a letter,
rather I am saying that “Alif” is a letter, “laam” is a letter and “meem” is a letter.” (At Turmudhi)
4. Quran will be our intercessor in the day of Judgement
The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said“Read the Qur’an, for verily it will come on the Day of
Standing as an intercessor for its companions.” (Shahih Muslim)
5. Allah will give rewards to someone of us who recites Al Quran with difficulty
‘Aa’ishah relates that the Prophet (may peace of Allah upon him) said: “Verily the one who recites the Qur’an
beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, he will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. And as for the one
who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have two ajr (wages).” (Shahih
Bukhari and Shahih Muslim)
6. Our position in the Paradise will be determined by the last verse we recite
‘Abdullah ibn ‘Amr ibn Al-’Aas heard the Prophet (may peace be upon him) saying: “It will be said to the companion
of the Qur’an: Read and elevate (through the levels of the Paradise) and beautify your voice as you used to do when
you were in the dunyaa! For verily, your position in the Paradise will be at the last verse you recite!” (Abu Dawud
and At-Turmudhi).
Mention the name of the Surah and the number of the verse in the 11th chapter of the Quran
mentioned that Quran narrates the most beautiful stories.


Vol. 5 Aug. 23rd 2010/Ramadan 13th 1431 H No. 13
How Should We Recite the Holy Quran?
1) Spelling every single letter of the Quran correctly
Narrated Qatada: Anas was asked, "How was the recitation (of the Quran) of the Prophet?' He replied, "It
was characterized by the prolongation of certain sounds." He then recited: In the Name of Allah, the Most
Beneficent, the Most Merciful prolonging the pronunciation of 'In the Name of Allah, 'the most Beneficent,'
and 'the Most Merciful”. (Shahih al Bukhari)
2) Beautifying the voice and tone

Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle said, "Allah does not listen to a prophet as He listens to a prophet who recites
the Qur'an in a pleasant tone." (Shahih al Bukhari)
Narrated 'Abdullah bin Mughaffal: I saw the Prophet reciting (Qur'an) while he was riding on his she camel
or camel which was moving, carrying him. He was reciting Surat Fath or part of Surat Fath very softly and
in an attractive vibrating tone.” (Shahih al Bukhari)
3) Reciting slowly, not hastily

The Quran says, “…and recite the Qur'an in slow, measured rhythmic tones.” (Al Muzzammil[73]:4)
Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr: Allah's Apostle said to me, "Recite the whole Qur'an in one month's time." I
said, "But I have power (to do more than that)." Allah's Apostle said, "Then finish the recitation of the
Qur'an in seven days, and do not finish it in less than this period." (al Bukhari)
4) Thinking deeply about the meaning of recited verses

The Quran states,“(This is) a Book (the Quran) which We have sent down to you, full of blessings that they may
ponder over its Verses, and that men of understanding may remember.”(Shad[38]:29)
5) Weeping because of the contemplation

The Quran says,“Do you then wonder at this recitation (the Qur'ân)? And you laugh at it and weep not?”
(An Najm [53]:59-60). Narrated Abdullah bin Mas'ud: The Prophet said to me, "Recite (the Quran) to me." I
said, "O Allah's Apostle, Shall I recite (the Qur'an) to you while it has been revealed to you?" He said, "Yes."
So I recited Surat-An-Nisa' (The Women), but when I recited the Verse: 'How (will it be) then when We
bring from each nation a witness and We bring you (O Muhammad) as a witness against these people.' (4:41)
He said, "Enough for the present," I looked at him and behold! His eyes were overflowing with tears”
(Shahih al Bukhari)

In the Day of Judgement Satan will tell the truth to humankind who became his followers that he had
cheated them with fake promises. He told them to blame none but themselves because they had responded
his calling.
Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 13th chapter of the Quran containing the similar
meaning to the statement.


Seven Steps on the Road of Taqwa
Ramadan has very strong relation to taqwa—God consciousness. We can find this relation in two aspects.
Firstly, Ramadan is the month of fasting, of which the ultimate goal is to enhance taqwa of the believing
people (al Baqarah [2]:183). Secondly, Ramadan is also the month when Allah the Almighty sent down the
Quran as guidance for humankind (al Baqarah [2]:185). However, not every kind of human will get benefit
of the Quran. The Quran will be meaningful as guidance only for al muttaqun—people having taqwa (al
Baqarah [2]: 2).
The Quran mentions characteristics of al muttaqun—people with God consciousness. Among them are as
follow. May Allah help us to be parts of them.
1) Having strong believe in ghaib (unseen)
They have strong belief in Ghaib (al Baqarah[2]:3), something they cannot see by their eyes. They
believe in Allah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, and the Prophets (al Baqarah [2]:177), in which all
are unseen (the Book and the Prophets are based on Wahy—inspiration—that is also unseen). They
believe by certain that, there is another life after the current life although they cannot get any observable
empirical evident of its existence (al Baqarah[2]:4).
2) Performing prayers (Iqamat al shalat)
They always perform prayers (al Baqarah[2]:3,177) on each prayer time with careful prostration, bows,
and recitations. In their prayers, they try hard to present all solemnity and full submissiveness (al
Mu`minun [23]:2)
3) Giving zakat
They always give zakat (al Baqarah[2]:3,177), including zakatul fithr in Ramadan and zakat of their
wealth. Narrated Abdullah bin Abbas,”The Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) prescribed the zakatul
fithr as a purification of the fasting from empty and obscene talk and as food for the poor…” (Abu
Dawood, good isnad)
4) Spending beloved wealth
They also spend parts of their wealth, although they love them to the kinsfolk, to the orphans, to the poor,
to the wayfarer, and to those who ask (al Baqarah[2]:3,177). They spend them both in prosperity and in
adversity (Ali Imran[3]:134).
5) Fulfilling every covenant
They are so trustworthy that whenever they make a covenant, they always fulfill it (al Baqarah[2]:177).
6) Being patient
Their hearths are full of patience in extreme poverty and ailment (disease) and at the time of holy
fighting (al Baqarah[2]:177).
7) Being Merciful
Their hearths are so merciful that they repress anger and pardon people who hurt them (Ali Imran[3]:143).

Allah encourages humankind to observe the flying birds and to think deeply how they are able to keep flying
in the sky. It is because in this are proofs of Him for the believers.
Mention the name of surah and the number of verse in 14th chapter of the Quran containing interpretation
similar to this statement.


Eight Benefits of Taqwa
Allah obliged the believing people to observe fasting in order they reach taqwa (al Baqarah[2]:183). The
Muttaqun—people having characteristics of taqwa—are the pious and righteous persons who fear Allah
much (abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which He has forbidden) and love Allah much (perform
all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained). As described in al Baqarah[2]:177, they own good
character not only in relation to their God, but also to others, and to themselves.
It is no wonder Allah the All-Wise promises great benefits for them. Among them are as follows.
1. They will find the way out from every difficulty
2. They will get provision from sources they never could imagine
The Quran says, “And whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get
out (from every difficulty) And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine.” (Ath
Thalaq[65]:2-3)
3. Their matter will become easy

The Quran says, “Whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make his matter easy for
him. . .” (Ath Thalaq[65]:4)
4. Allah will remit their evil deeds
5. Allah will magnify their reward

The Quran says, “Whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will expiate from him his sins, and
will enlarge his reward” (Ath Thalaq[65]:5)
6. Allah will be always with them

The Quran says, “...And fear Allah, and know that Allah is with Al-Muttaqûn” (al Baqarah[2]:194), “ But
know that Allah is with those who are Al-Muttaqun “ (at Taubah[9]:36)
7. Allah will love them

The Quran says, “Yes, whoever fulfils his pledge and fears Allah much; verily, then Allah loves those who
are Al-Muttaqûn” (Ali Imran[3]:76)
8. They will enter Paradise

The Quran says, “Adn (Eden) Paradise (Gardens of Eternity) which they will enter, under which rivers flow,
they will have therein all that they wish. Thus Allah rewards the Muttaqûn” (an Nahl[16]:31). “Verily, the
Muttaqûn will be in Gardens (Paradise), and Delight” (Ath Thur[52]:17)

Find the name of surah and the number of verse in the 15th chapter of the Quran containing the prohibition to
come near to unlawfully sexual intercourse.


The Merits of Invocations
Ramadhan is very special moment not only for people who observe fasting, but also for those who call
Allah with invocations. Fasting and invocation are closely related each other. You will find the verse in the
Quran addressing invocation between two verses addressing fasting (see al Baqarah[2]:186). In addition,
Abu Huraira narrated that the Prophet (May peace of Allah upon him) said, “There are three groups of
people whose invocations will not be rejected (by Lord): the just leader (imam), someone observing fasting
when he breaks his fasting, and the invocation of someone who is oppressed” (At Turmudhi)
Syaikh Muhammad bin Ibrahim al Hamd mentions some of merits of invocation

1. Invocation is an Allah’s ordain. Thus, invocation is a kind of worship.
“And your Lord said: "Invoke Me, [i.e. believe in My Oneness (Islâmic Monotheism)] (and ask Me for
anything) I will respond to your (invocation)” (Ghafir[40]:60)
2. It can prevent Allah’s anger

Prophet Muhammad (peace of Allah upon him) said, “He who does not supplicate Allah incurs His anger”
(Al-Bukhari)
3. Invocation will help you become relieved.

It is because by invoking Allah, you put your trust on Him. You will not worry anymore.
4. You will certainly get benefit from your invocation

Allah will answer your invocation in one of three ways:
a. Allah will give what you request
b. Allah will prevent you from a badness
c. Allah will give it in Hereafter
However, note that your invocation will be beneficial only if you do not ask something sinful or for breaking
ties of kinship. The Prophet (May peace of Allah upon him) said, “If someone invokes (Allah) with an
invocation, Allah will certainly give him what he requests or prevent him from a badness unless he invokes
for something sinful or for the severance of ties of kinship“(Ahmad and At Turmudhi). The Prophet also said,
"The supplication of any servant of Allah continues to be answered, unless he or she prays for something
sinful or for the severance of ties of kinship and unless he or she is hasty." A question was asked: "How can
one be hasty?" The Prophet answered, "He or she [the supplicant] says, 'I have prayed often, but I have not
seen my prayers answered. He or she then feels aggrieved and stops his or her supplication." (Muslim)

Find the name of surah and the number of verse in the 16th chapter of the Quran containing the statement
that the Paradise is an inheritance to those of people who guard against evil (having taqwa).


Tips to Make Good Invocations
1. Invoke Allah with humility and in secret
The Quran says, “Invoke your Lord with humility and in secret. He likes not the aggressors.” (Al A’raf
[7]:55). Ibnu Jarir at Tabari, a great tafsir Quran scholar commented on this verse, saying that it means we
should invoke Allah with humility. Our heart should be full of submissiveness to obey Him and convinced
that He is One and only. We should not invoke Him loudly only to show off our invocations to people.
(Jami’ al Bayan fi Tafsir al Quran)
2. Invoke Allah with fear and hope

The Quran says, “…and invoke Him with fear and hope; Surely, Allâh's Mercy is (ever) near unto the good-
doers.”(Al A’raf [7]:56)
Ibnu Kathir, another well-known tafsir Quran scholar, commented on this verse. He said, we should invoke
Allah with fear of Allah’s punishment and hope for His reward. Allah’s mercy is ever near unto the good-
doers who implement His ordains and leave His prohibitions. (Tafsir al Quran al Karim)
3. Invoke Allah in Best Times

The Prophet (may peace of Allah upon him) mentioned several best times to make invocations. Among them
are as follows.
a. In the last third of the night
Narrated Abu Huraira, Allah's Apostle said, "When it is the last third of the night, our Lord, the Blessed, the
Superior, descends every night to the heaven of the world and says, 'Is there anyone who invokes Me
(demand anything from Me), that I may respond to his invocation; Is there anyone who asks Me for
something that I may give (it to) him; Is there anyone who asks My forgiveness that I may forgive him?' "
(Shahih al Bukhari)
b. At The End Of The Obligatory Salat
Narrated Abu Umamah, Allah’s Messenger (may peace of Allah upon him ) was asked, “O Messenger of
Allah, which supplication is heard (by Allah)? He said, “The end of the night and at the end of the
obligatory Salat (prayer)” (at-Tirmidhi). This time is after saying 'At-tahyat' , and before making Taslim
(finishing prayer).
c. Between adzan and iqamah
Anas narrated that Allah’s Messenger said: “A supplication made between the Adhan and Iqama is not
rejected.” (Ahmad, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmidhi, an-Nasai,Ibnu Hibban –valid)
d. During Fasting
The prophet (peace of Allah upon him) declared, “Three men whose invocation is never rejected (by Allah)
are: when a fasting person breaks fast (in another narration, the fasting person until he breaks his fast), the
just ruler and the one who is oppressed.”(Ahmad, at-Tirmidzi – good)

Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 17th chapter of the Quran containing the Prophet
Ayyub’s invocation


When Invocations Remain Unanswered
Sometimes we invoke Allah with full of hope for a long time, but what we request has not yet come true. If it
happens, we should remember that Allah is the All-Wise, Knowing. He is aware of every detail of anything occurs.
The Quran says, “And He knows whatever there is in the land and in the sea; not a leaf falls, but he knows it. There is
not a grain in the darkness of the earth nor anything fresh or dry, but is written in a Clear Record.”. (Al An’am[6]:59)
Nothing in the universe will happen without a wise purpose of Him. Therefore, there must be some reasons behind
the delayed answer of our invocations. The followings are among the possible reasons.
1. Allah intends to make a trial of us
Allah says in Quran, “We shall make a trial of you with evil and with good, and to Us you will be returned (Al
Anbiya[21]:35). He delayed answering our invocation in order that we will become patient. The trial is a sign of
Allah’s love. The Prophet (may peace of Allah upon him) said, ”When Allah who is Great and Glorious loves people
He afflicts them (with trial)” (at Tirmidhi—good). When we accept the trial with patience, Allah will remit our sins.
The Prophet said, “No calamity befalls a Muslim but that Allah expiates some of his sins because of it, even though it
were the prick he receives from a thorn.” (Bukhari)
2. Allah wishes us to evaluate ourselves
Allah might delay our invocations due to our sins. Abu Huraira narrated that the Prophet (may peace of Allah upon
him) once mentioned a case of a man who, having journeyed far, is disheveled and dusty and who spreads out his
hands to the sky (saying), "O Lord! O Lord!", whereas his food is unlawful, his drink is unlawful, his clothing is
unlawful, and he is nourished unlawfully, so how can he be answered!” (Muslim)
When someone hopes to get something but he does not have it, he will start evaluating himself. He will ask himself
“What have I done for which my invocation remains unanswered?” Possibly, he consumed unlawfully food, or he
committed sins that Allah has not yet forgiven. When he realized his sins, he repents to Allah of his sins, and then
Allah will forgive him and answer his invocation.
3. Allah will prevent us from a badness instead of giving us our request
The Prophet (may peace of Allah upon him) said, If someone invokes (Allah) with an invocation, Allah will certainly
give him what he requests or prevent him from a badness unless he invokes for something sinful or for the severance
of ties of kinship“(Ahmad and at Tirmidhi—good)
Possibly, Allah knows that what we request will lead us to badness, but we do not. The Quran says, “...it may be that
you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows but you do not
know.”(Al Baqarah [2]:216)

Mention the Surah and the number of verse in the 18th chapter of the Quran implying that Allah does not
create us without any purpose.


Enhancing Belief in Angels
Based on Al Baqarah[2]:185, Ramadhan is the month in which the Quran was revealed. Ibnu Abbas
commented on this verse, saying that it means, verses of the Quran was revealed entirely to the heaven of
dun-ya in one night in Ramadhan, and then revealed to the Prophet (may peace of Allah upon him)
separately in dealing with occurrences. The night was the night of power (Al Qadr [97]:1), the blessed night
(Ad Dukhan[44]:3) (Tafsir Ibnu Katsir). The revelation of the Quran in the night of power recalls us the
existence of the Angels. The Quran says,” Therein descend the angels and the Ruh [Jibril (Gabriel)] by
Allâh's Permission with all Decrees,” (al Qadr[97]:4).
Allah the Almighty created the Angels from Nur (a bundle of light). ‘Aisha reported, the Messenger of
Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “The angels are created from light, just as the jinn
are created from smokeless fire and mankind is created from what you have been told about [i.e. clay]”
(Muslim). The Angels have wings (see Fathir[35]:1). They worship Allah and always obey Him (see An
Nahl[16]:50). The Quran mentioned duties of the Angels. Some of them are as follows.
1. Sending down the Wahy (inspiration) from Allah to the His Prophets
This is the special duty of Jibril (Ruh al Qudus). The Quran says,“Say (O Muhammad SAW) Ruh-ul-
Qudus [Jibril (Gabriel)] has brought it (the Qur'an) down from your Lord with truth…” (an
Nahl[16]102).
2. Taking the soul from human body while he is dying
The Quran says, “Say: ‘The angel of death, who is set over you, will take your souls, Then you shall be
brought to your Lord’" (As Sajdah[32]:11).
3. Recording mankind’s deeds
The Quran says, “But verily, over you (are appointed angels in charge of mankind) to watch you.
Honorable, writing down (your deeds). They know all that you do.” (Al Infithar [82]:10-12)
4. Asking Allah’s forgiveness for believing people and invoking Allah for their benefits
The Quran says, “Those (angels) who bear the Throne (of Allah) and those around it glorify the praises
of their Lord and believe in Him, and ask forgiveness for those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah)
(saying): "Our Lord! You comprehend all things in mercy and knowledge, so forgive those who repent
and follow Your Way, and save them from the torment of the blazing Fire! Our Lord! and make them
enter the 'Adn (Eden) Paradise (everlasting Gardens) which you have promised them, — and to the
righteous among their fathers, their wives, and their offspring! Verily, You are the All-Mighty, the All-
Wise” (Ghafir[40]:7-8)
5. Supporting people who believe in Allah and stand firm on their belief
The Quran says, “Verily, those who say: "Our Lord is Allâh (Alone)," and then they stand firm, on them
the angels will descend (at the time of their death) (saying): "Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad
tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!” (Fushshilat[41]:30)
6. Guarding people in the Hell
The Quran says “O you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families against a Fire (Hell)
whose fuel is men and stones, over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who disobey not, (from
executing) the Commands they receive from Allâh, but do that which they are commanded.(At Tahrim[66]:6)
Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 19th chapter of the Quran describing the day of
Qiyamah, in which the Angels are sent down, descending in rank.


Why Should We Love the Prophet Muhammad (Peace of Allah upon Him)?
1. The Prophet loves us indeed
Allah the Almighty describes the Prophet’s love in us:”Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger
(Muhammad SAW) from amongst yourselves (i.e. whom you know well). It grieves him that you should
receive any injury or difficulty. He (Muhammad SAW) is anxious over you (to be rightly guided, to repent to
Allah, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins, in order that you may enter Paradise and be saved
from the punishment of the Hell-fire), for the believers (he SAW is) full of pity, kind, and merciful.(At
Tauba[9]:128)
The Prophet gave the believers preference over himself. The Quran says, “O you who believe! Enter not
the Prophet's houses, unless permission is given to you for a meal, (and then) not (so early as) to wait for its
preparation. But when you are invited, enter, and when you have taken your meal, disperse, without sitting
for a talk. Verily, such (behavior) annoys the Prophet, and he is shy of (asking) you (to go), but Allah is not
shy of (telling you) the truth….” (Al Ahzab[33]:53)
The Prophet even wished to kill himself due to grief over the refusal of unbelievers. The Quran
says,”Perhaps, you, would kill yourself (O Muhammad SAW) in grief, over their footsteps (for their turning
away from you), because they believe not in this narration (the Quran)”.(Al Kahf[18]:6)
The Prophet wished to see us. The Prophet said, “I wish I could see my brothers”. (the Companions
said) aren’t we your brothers O Prophet of Allah? He replied: No, you are my Companions. My brothers are
those who come after me and believe in me without seeing me.” (Ahmad, sahih)
2. If we love him, we would be along with him in the Hereafter
Anas b. Malik reported that a person came to Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) and said to
Allah's Messenger: When would be the Last Hour? Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: What preparation
have you made for the Last Hour? He said: The love of Allah and of His Messenger (is my only preparation).
Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: You would be along with one whom you love. Anas said: Nothing
pleased us more after accepting Islam than the words of Allah's Apostle: You would be along with one
whom you love. And Anas said: I love Allah and His Messenger and Abu Bakr and Umar, and I hope that I
would be along with them although I have not acted like them. (Shahih Muslim-6380)
3. Someone’s faith is meaningless without love for him
It is reported on the authority of Anas b. Malik that the Messenger of Allah said: “None of you is a
believer until I am dearer to him than his child, his father and the whole of mankind”. (Shahih Muslim-0071)
Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 20th chapter of the Quran confirming that The
Prophet Muhammad (peace of Allah upon him) is on the manifest truth.


Vol. 5 Aug. 31st 2010/Ramadan 21st 1431 H No. 21
Charity in Ramadan
(The likeness of those who spend their wealth in Allah's way is as the likeness of a grain which growth
seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah gives increase manifold to whom He will. Allah is All-
Embracing, All-Knowing.) (Quran 2:261)
Imams Al-Bukhari and Muslim reported that Ibn ‘Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him, had said,
“The Prophet (saws) was the most generous of people. He used to be the most generous in Ramadan when
he would meet with angel Jibreal and study the Quran with him. Angel Jibreal would meet with the Prophet
every night in Ramadan to teach him the Quran. The Prophet was so generous when he met with Jibreal,
more generous than the wind that brings rain.” Imam Ahmad added to this narration, “And nothing he was
asked for but he would give it.” Furthermore, Al-Bayhaqi reported that ‘Aaishah, may Allah be pleased with
her, had said, “When Ramadan would start, the Prophet would release all prisoners of war and fulfill the
need of every person who would ask him for something.”
Generosity and giving are attributes that Allah likes for Muslims to have. Also, Allah is the most
Generous and Giving of all. Indeed, Allah’s Generosity multiplies in Ramadan. Similarly, the Prophet’s
generosity increased in Ramadan, and indeed he is the man whose personality entails all the attributes
mankind seeks and vies for.
This increased generosity of the Prophet in Ramadan has several reasons and indications that we have
to pay attention to, among them are:
1. Ramadan is an honorable and blessed month, and the rewards for generosity are multiplied in it. The
Prophet (saws) said, “The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” [At-Tirmithi].
2. This is a source of help and support, especially the ones fasting. To encourage this, the Prophet said,
“He who feeds a fasting person will gain the same reward as he will, without decreasing from the fasting
person’s rewards.” [Ahmad].
3. Ramadan is the month of giving and mercy, and in it Allah blesses the believers with forgiveness and
being saved from Hellfire. Therefore, whoever is merciful and giving in Ramadan, Allah will be even more
Merciful and Giving, and will bestow upon him countless bounties and blessings.
4. Charity and fasting are a stronger and more effective barrier that will keep the person away from the
Fire. As for fasting, the Prophet had said, “Fasting is a shield and protection from Hellfire” [Ahmad]. He
also said regarding charity, “Charity extinguishes the sin just as water extinguishes the fire. The man’s
prayer late at night has the same effect.”
Abu Hurayrah said, "The Messenger of Allah said: (No child is born except in a state of Fitrah, then his
parents make him a Jew or a Christian or a Zoroastrian, just as each animal produces a perfect animal like
itself -- do you see any among them that are born mutilated)".
Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 21st chapter of the Quran mentions that Allah
created man in a state of Fitrah.


Vol. 5 Sept. 1st 2010/Ramadan 22nd 1431 H No. 22
Blessed Night (Lailatul Qadr)
Lo! We revealed it on the Night of Predestination. Ah, what will convey unto thee what the Night of Power is!
The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the
permission of their Lord, with all decrees. (The night is) Peace until the rising of the dawn. (QS. 97:1-5)
The 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights if Ramadan has been suggested as the night of
Power and Blessing.
Hadrat Anas (Allah be pleased with him) narrated that once in the month of Ramadan, the Holly
Prophet (Peace and blessing of Allah upon him) observed: (A month has come upon you people in which
there is one night which is better than a thousand months. The person who misses offering devotions
in the course of this night deprives himself of all bless. And only that person remains deprived of the Grace
and Blessing of this month who really deserves deprivation.) (Ibn Majah)
I’tikaf (Prayers in seclusion)
If possible, one should observe the total seclusion in the last ten days of Ramadan. The
Messenger of Allah (Peace and blessing of Allah upon him) made it a practice during his lifetime. Hadrat
Aisha (Allah be pleased with him) reports: (The Messenger of Allah (Peace and blessing of Allah upon him)
used to seclude himself for the last ten nights of Ramadan till Allah took away his life. Afterwards his wives
secluded themselves.)
I’tikaf means literary (to stay in place). Technically, it is staying in a mosque for a certain number of
days, especially the last ten days of Ramadan. The idea behind I’tikaf is to exhort the Muslims to devote
themselves exclusively to prayer and devotion at least for a few days during the year in order to
develop deeo God-consciousness, because it is this consciousness which is fountainhead of Muslims’
thought and deed. I’tikaf is in fact the next stage to fasting in spiritual development and purification
of the soul. During I’tikaf, the Mu’takif dissociates himself from all worldly affaira and spends his time in
prayers and supplications.
Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 22nd chapter of the Quran which means that
Allah tells us how Sulayman, peace be upon him, died and how Allah concealed his death from the Jinn.


Vol. 5 Sept. 2nd 2010/Ramadan 23rd 1431 H No. 23
Ways to Win Blessed Night (1)
After we knew the important of night of power here are some tips of things we can do on the Night of
Power and the time before and after it.
1. Take a vacation for Allah
We take a break from our jobs for almost everything in life. Why not this time to focus on worshiping
and thanking our Creator? If this is not possible at least take a few days off if you can.
2. Do Itikaf
It was a practice of the Prophet to spend the last ten days and nights of Ramadan in the masjid for Itikaf.
Those in Itikaf stay in the masjid all this time, performing various forms of zikr (the remembrance of
Allah), like doing extra Salat, recitation and study of the Quran. They do not go outside the masjid except in
case of emergencies; therefore, they sleep in the masjid. Itikaf of a shorter period of time, like one night, a
day or a couple of days is encouraged as well.
3. Make this special Duaa
Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, said: I asked the Messenger of Allah: ‘O Messenger of Allah, if I
know what night is the night of Qadr, what should I say during it?' He said: "Allahumma innaka àfuwwun
tuhibbul àfwa fa`fu ànnee" (means: O Allah, You are pardoning and You love to pardon, so pardon
me.)’(Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and Tirmidhi).
4. Recite the Quran
Perhaps you can choose Surahs or passages from the Quran which you have heard in Tarawih this past
Ramadan to recite.
5. Reflect on the meaning of the Quran
Choose the latest Surah or Surahs you've heard in Tarawih and read their translation and Tafseer. Then
think deeply about their meaning and how it affects you on a personal level.

Ibn Abi Hatim recorded that Anas bin Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, said, "We were with the
Prophet and he smiled so broadly that his molar could be seen, then he said:
(Do you know why I am smiling?) We said, Àllah and His Messenger know best.' He said:
(Because of the way a servant will argue with his Lord on the Day of Resurrection. He will say, "O Lord,
will You not protect me from injustice'' Allah will say, "Of course.'' He will say, "I will not accept any
witness against me except from myself.'' Allah will say, "Today you will be a sufficient witness against
yourself, and the honorable scribes will serve as witnesses against you.'' Then his mouth will be sealed, and
it will be said to his faculties, "Speak!'' So they will speak of what he did. Then he will be permitted to speak,
and he will say, "May you be doomed! It was for you that I was fighting.'')'' This was recorded by Muslim
and An-Nasa'i.
Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 23rd chapter of the Quran which has similar
meaning with hadits mentions that our mouth will be sealed in the day of resurrection.


Vol. 5 Sept. 3rd 2010/Ramadan 24th 1431 H No. 24
Ways to Win Blessed Night (2)
Here are some other tips to win blessed night (Laylatul Qadr):
6. Night prayer
Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger said: Whoever stands (in prayer) in Laylatul Qadr while
nourishing his faith with self-evaluation, expecting reward from Allah, will have all of his previous sins
forgiven. [Bukhari and Muslim].
Try to make your prayers longer, deeper and meaningful. Reading the translation of quran before the
prayer will help in reflecting on the meaning and thus develop concentration.
7. Make a personal Duaa list.

Ask yourself what you really want from Allah. Make a list of each and everything, no matter how small
or how big it is, whether it deals with this world or not. Allah loves to hear from us.
8. Memorize a different Duaa every night

They don't have to be long. And be sure to know what they mean generally at least, even if you don't
know the exact translation in English.
9. Make long, sincere and deep Duaa

One of the best times to do this is during the last part of the night.
Abu Huraira, may Allah be pleased with him, related that the Prophet said: When the last one-third of
the night remains, our Lord, the Glorious One descends towards the heaven of the earth and proclaims: Who
is that who supplicates for Me, and I grant his supplication? Who is that who begs Me for anything and I
grant it to him? And who is that who seeks My forgiveness, and I forgive him? (Bukhari, Muslim).
10. Do checklist for the Night of Power

This should define how you would like your night, the one better than a thousand months, to be used.
11. Plan for the next year

Once you've done a self-evaluation, you can plan on where you want to go, at least in the next 12
months.
12. Evaluate yourself.

Ask yourself those questions that need to be asked. Do an evaluation of where you are and where you
are going. Let this evaluation lead you to feel happiness for the good you have done and remorse for the bad
you have done.

Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 24rd chapter of the Quran that Allah tells us how
man, when he is suffering from harm, prays to Allah, turning to Him in repentance and calling upon Him,
but when He makes things easy for him, he transgresses and commits sins.


Vol. 5 Sept. 4th 2010/Ramadan 25th 1431 H No. 25
Forgive Others
The Prophet Muhammad (saws) said: Musa, the son of Imran once asked, "Oh my Lord! Who is the
most honorable of Your servants? And He replied, the person who forgives even when he is in a position of
power" (Baihaqi). Peace and blessings be upon the Prophet.
When you get into an argument(s) with a family member, friend, boss, employee, coworker,
classmate, teacher or whoever, you know your facts are right or that you've been wronged with an insulting
remark, sarcastic comment or rudeness. And so, you choose to hold a grudge. After all, you've got a right to.
Nobody should be treated this way. Why should you forgive? You're not the one who started this. You're not
the one who doesn't have the facts straight.
True. You may be right. You may be in that position of power mentioned in the Hadith above. But
forgiving others, apart from positively affecting our health (less stress) and our minds (one less negative
thing to focus on), is a necessary step to closeness to God. How can we move up the ladder of spiritual
development when we hold bitterness and anger towards another person? While we may have been in the
right, is it worth sacrificing our energy on a grudge instead of on growth?
Is there not something strange about asking for God's forgiveness of our sins while withholding our
forgiveness from someone who has hurt us? One of the distinguishing features of Ramadan is forgiveness.
The Prophet explained in one Hadith that Ramadan is a month whose beginning is Mercy, whose middle is
Forgiveness and whose end is freedom from the Hellfire. This makes it a great time to ask God for His
Forgiveness. It's also a wonderful time to open our hearts and cleanse them of grudges and bitterness by
forgiving others.
Let us use these remaining days of forgiveness this Ramadan to open our hearts to those who have
wronged us and forgive them as we beg Allah to forgive us.

It was reported in the Two Sahihs that the Messenger of Allah said: (Death will be brought forth in the
image of a fine ram. It will be made to stand between Paradise and Hell, and then it will be slaughtered. It
will be said, "O people of Paradise, it is eternal, no more death; and O people of Hell, it is eternal, no more
death.'')
Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 25th chapter of the Quran with similar meaning.


Tips to Restrain Anger
Abu Hurairah, radiyallahu 'anhu, reported that a man said to the Prophet, sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam:
"Advise me! "The Prophet said, "Do not become angry and furious." The man asked (the same) again and
again, and the Prophet said in each case, "Do not become angry and furious." [Al-Bukhari; Vol. 8 No. 137]
Here some tips to restrain anger:
1. Seek refuge in Allah (swt)
“And if an evil suggestion comes to you from Shaytan, then seek refugee in Allah, He is hearing and
knowing (Quran 7: 200)
2. Do wudhu (washing specific parts of your body with water) according to the tradition of the Prophet
(SAW). The Prophet (SAW) said, “ Anger from Shaytan; Shaytan from fire; fire is put out by water; so
when angry do wudhu”
3. Change body positions
“ If one of you gets angry while standing he should sit. If he is still angry he should lie down”
To say this hadith in other words:
Lying down is better than sitting
Sitting is better than standing
Standing is better than walking
Walking is better than Sa’y, which is somewhat between walking and running.
4. Cheek to the ground.
Since anger is a product of pride, the Prophet (SAW) said, “whoever gets a little angry should stick his
cheek to the ground”
5. Psycho-physical approach
Diverting attention away from the cause of anger and participate in strenuous physical activity aiming at
letting steam out and relaxing of muscles.
The Prophet (SAW) used this approach to manage the tension of the Sahabah on their way back from the
battle of Bani Al Mustalq. Abdullah bin Ubay – the head of the hypocrites said, “If we return to Al Madinah,
the more honoured (for power) will surely expel there from the more humble” (Quran 63:8)
The Sahabah became angry and the Prophet (SAW) ordered them to continue marching for two days. When
the Sahabah took rest, they slept and forgot the anger.
6. When angry be quiet, don’t speak, and be silent.
“Teach, simplify, don’t complicate and if you get angry be silent”.
7. Positive interpretation of events.

(Indeed, Allah will surely support those who support Him (His cause).) (Q.S.22:40)


Taqwa: Valuable Fruit of Ramadan
The Islamic fast is unique and different from other types of fasting observed in other religions. It is
obligatory, for a specific period of time from dawn to dusk, and in a specific lunar month, Ramadan.
It involves a voluntary renunciation of all appetites and desires of the flesh during that month for defined
hours, with a cheerful and willing acceptance of this beneficial divine mandate.
Sunset signifies the achievement of one s victory over his self during the day. This blessed month of
Ramadan inculcates a spirit of fortitude and gratitude. The atmosphere of the month is such that positive
thoughts are automatically invoked on a 24-hour basis. Such thoughts, which wish the welfare of one
and all, Muslims as well as non-Muslims, including those who have wronged us!
A stable monotonous environment of eating three times daily tends to produce stereotyped
reactionary patterns. Fasting gives a variable environment with rigid strategies and sufficient degrees of
freedom to cope with the changing conditions.
Some of us may be habituated to a particular type of vice or wrong-doing - e.g. gambling, smoking,
drinking, backbiting, fraud, hot temper, domestic violence, etc. Whatever foul we are habituated to, becomes
our routine and it becomes difficult to resist.
Fasting helps to overcome such habits either gradually for some of us or immediately for those with
a stronger will power, especially if supported by constant supplications seeking Allah's assistance. The usual
antidote is to put an entirely opposite thought in the mind to displace the negative trend. This act of self-
restraint in Ramadan strengthens the will and hence, the will power. This extra will power helps to
overcome obsessions and addictions. In fact, fasting also reduces a criminal surge to commit dangerous
crimes. During the Islamic fast, every organ in the body that has been given to us as trust by Allah is put to a
critical test.
Taqwa is the most valuable fruit of fasting. Just as plants have their own season of flowering, so is
Ramadan the season of the year for blossoming of goodness, virtue and piety in the Muslim ummah (nation).
Not one, but millions of people jointly water the garden of virtue in the same lunar month, all over the world.

He has created everything, and has measured it exactly according to its due measurements (Faqaddarahu
Taqdir). (Q.S.25:2)


Keep the Spirit of Ramadan Alive All Year
As we enter upon the end of Ramadan, let us not leave off the many acts of worship we have
performed during the blessed month of Ramadan. Ramadan, for most of us is a time of renewal and
reestablishment of our commitment to Allah and His religion.
We fast, give charity, read the Qur'an and perform the night prayer. We avoid gossip, slander and
every evil that would invalidate our fasts and additional acts of worship. But now that Ramadan is about to
be over, the majority of us unfortunately will put the Qur'an back on the shelves, will suspend fasting until
next year and will abandon the night prayer. This is not the way it should be, because all of these acts of
worship carry rewards and are of benefit to us throughout the year, in addition to the fact that there is no
divine prescription limiting them to Ramadan.
The Qur'an: It's sad, true, that many of us have fallen into the bad habit of only reciting the Qur'an during
the month of Ramadan. Reading the Qur'an is the best way to remember Allah, it is a protection from the
Satan and in it are cures for what ails us. Allah says, "Oh mankind, there has come to you a protection from
your Lord and a healing for what is in your hearts and for those who believe, guidance a mercy." (QS.10:57)
The Night Prayer: Many of us pass the nights of the month of Ramadan, especially the last ten, standing in
prayer before Allah. Just because Ramadan is over does not mean that Allah does not see us now if we stand
in the night prayer. He says, "Surely your Lord knows that you stand (in prayer) two thirds of the night or
half of it, or a third of it." (Qur'an 73: 20).
Fasting: The Prophet {saws} said: "Whoever fasts a day in the way of Allah, Allah will place between him
and the Fire a trench like that between the heavens and the earth." (Tirmidhi). The Prophet {saws} explained
to us that fasting protects us from our unlawful desires, shields us from the hell fire and draws us closer to
Allah and His Paradise. He {saws}, also encouraged us to fast at least three days each month. The best days
for this optional fasting are Mondays and Thursdays, or the thirteenth, fourteenth and fifteenth days of the
lunar month.

Allah allowed Muslims to spread throughout the earth and seek bounty after the Friday prayer is finished.
Mention the name of Surah and the number of verse in the 28th chapter of the Quran with that meaning.


Being Thoughts on Eid
Many people wonder why we celebrate Eid at the end of Ramadan. Are we happy that Ramadan has
finished? How can we be happy that such a great month of ALLAH, with all its blessings and mercies, has
gone away? The actual reason we celebrate Eid is not because we are glad the holy month is over, but
because we are thankful to ALLAH for giving us the chance and the strength to carry out His commands in
the blessed month. We are happy that we were able to fast and pray in Ramadan, and have hopefully
attained Taqwa, the goal of fasting.
Imam Ali (a) has a very beautiful hadith about Eid in which he says: Eid is for him whose fasts have been
accepted by ALLAH, and whose worship has been appreciated by ALLAH. Everyday in which you do not
disobey ALLAH is a day of Eid. This hadith is something to think about. Every day in which we do not
commit a single sin, is actually a day of Eid for us.
The day of Eid is meant for remembering ALLAH. The Holy Prophet (s) says: "Give beauty to your Eid by
doing Takbir". It is said that the Prophet (s) himself used to come out of his home on the day of Eid, reciting
the Takbir and glorifying ALLAH in a loud voice.
Celebrating Eid unites Muslims. As a community, they get closer to work together to make it a memorable
occasion. Eid prayers, and other programs held to celebrate it allow Muslims to meet and enjoy the
company of one another.
To deepen this brotherhood among us, the prophet (S.A.W.) ordered us to be merciful, help in clearing the
Hardships and distresses, and help in satisfying the needs, He (S.A.W.) said what was reported by Imams
Bukhari and Muslim in two hadiths. First, "He who is not being merciful with the people, ALLAH will not
be merciful with him." In the Second hadith, "The Muslim is a brother to another Muslim. He does not
oppress him, He does not abandon him when he needs help; whoever helps his brother when he is needed,
and ALLAH will help him at the time of his need. And whoever clears a distress for a Muslim, ALLAH will
clear for him one of the distresses of the Day of Judgment."
“We have shown man the path, whether he be grateful or disbelieving. “



Steadfast After Ramadan
Sufyaan ibn Àbdillaah radhiallahu ànhu said: "O Messenger of Allah, tell me something about Islam,
which I cannot ask anyone else besides you." He said: "Say: 'I believe in Allah' and then be steadfast (upon
that)." [Saheeh Muslim (38)]
The hadeth is proof that the servant is obligated, after having eman in Allah, to persevere and be steadfast
upon obeying Him by performing the obligatory acts and avoiding the prohibited ones. This is achieved by
following the Straight Path, which is the firm Religion without drifting away from it, to the right or to the
left. If the Muslim lives through Ramadan and spent his days in fasting and his nights in prayer and he
accustomed himself to doing acts of good, then he must continue to remain upon this obedience to Allah at
all times. This is the true state of the slave, for indeed, the Lord of the months is One and He is ever
watchful and witnessing over his servants at all times. Indeed, steadfastness after Ramadan and the
rectification of one's statements and actions are the greatest signs that one has gained benefit from the month
of Ramadan and striven in obedience. They are tokens of reception and signs of success.
Furthermore, the deeds of a servant do not come to an end with the end of a month and the beginning of
another, rather they continue and extend until he reaches death. Allah says:
And worship your Lord until the certainty (death) comes to you. Al-Hijr: 99
If the fasting of Ramadan comes to an end, then indeed the voluntary fasting is still prescribed throughout
the entire year. If standing in prayer at night during Ramadan comes to an end, then indeed, the entire year is
a time for performing the night prayer. And if the Zakaat-ul-Fitr comes to an end, then there is still the
Zakaah that is obligatory as well as the voluntary charity that lasts the whole year. This goes the same for
reciting the Qur'aan and pondering over its meaning as well as every other righteous deed that is sought, for
they can be done at all times. From the many bounties that Allah has bestowed upon his servants is that He
has placed for them many different types of righteous acts and provided many means for doing good deeds.
Therefore, the ardor and zeal of the Muslim must be constant and he must continue to remain in the service
of his Lord.

“O man! Verily, you are returning towards your Lord with your deeds and actions (good or bad), a sure
returning, so you will meet (i.e. the results of your deeds which you did).”


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‫بســــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــــم ال الرحـــمــن الرحيـم‬