PRAYERS (NAMAAZ)

Prayers are called “Salaat” in Arabic and “Namaaz” in Urdu. Namaaz is the best among all acts of worship. Prayer is the spiritual Ascension of Momin. If namaaz is accepted by Allah (S.W.T.) then other acts of worship are also accepted. Offering five times prayers purifies our souls in the same way as bathing five times a day cleanses our body of all dirt and filth. It is the very first item of Furoo-e-Deen or Branches of Islam. It is obligatory on every Muslim men and women to pray five times every day. It must be performed regularly and punctually. Each namaaz should be performed as soon as the time for that particular namaaz arrives. One should not be lazy and lethargic about it and should not wait till the time of that particular namaaz comes to an end. One should not pray namaaz in haste and hurry. One should remember that he is standing in the court of The Greatest of all. His Might, Majesty, Grandeur and Glory should be in our thoughts. It should be performed humbly and with solemnity and understand the meaning of each and every word. One should concentrate and try to forget about every thing else. Remember the absorption of The Commander of the Faithful when an arrow was pulled out of his foot while praying but he remained unaware of it.

There is a saying in Persian, “Rooz-e-Mahshar Ke Jangudaz Buad, Awwaleen Pursish-e-Namaaz Buad.” Meaning, “The Day of Judgment will be a day of fear when the servants of Allah will be questioned first about namaaz.”

Allama Iqbal, the dreamer of Pakistan, has said, “Ye Aik Sajdah Jise Tu Giran Samjhta Hai, Hazaar Sajdaun Se Deta Hai Admi Ko Najaat”. Meaning, “This one prostration to Allah which looks burdensome to you, will spare you from bending for one thousand times in front of the servants of Allah.

Prayers in Noble Qur’an:

Surah Al-Baqara, Ayat 238, “Pay due attention to your prayers, especially the middle prayers, and stand up while praying, in obedience to Allah (S.W.T.)”

Sura Al-Nisa Ayat 101 & 103, “When you are on a journey, it is no sin to shorten your prayers, if you are afraid of the mischief of the unbelievers…..”

“When you complete your prayer, remember Allah all the time while standing, sitting, or reclining. When you are safe, say your prayers properly. It is a constant duty of the believers”

Surah Al-Anaam, Ayat 92,162  “….Those who believe in the Day of Judgment accept this and are steadfast in their prayers.”

“My prayer, sacrifice, life and death are all for Allah, the Lord of the Universe”

Surah Al-Ra’d Ayat 28, “…and the faithful ones whose hearts are comforted by the remembrance of Allah. Remembrance of Allah certainly brings comfort to all hearts.”

Sura Al-Mu’minun Ayat 10, “….and who are steadfast in their prayer, these are the heirs of Paradise wherein they will live for ever.”

Surah Ta’Ha’ Ayat 14, “I am Allah, the only ‘Ilah (one deserving to be worshiped). Worship Me and be steadfast in prayer to have My name (always) in your mind.”

Surah Al-Ankabut Ayat 45, “(Muhammad) recite to them what has been revealed to you in the Book and be steadfast in prayer; prayer (speaking of Allah) keeps one away from indecency and sins. Allah’s paying attention to the worshiper is (indeed) the greatest (reward for worshiping Allah). Allah knows what you do.”

Surah Al-Ma’arij Ayat 34, “…who do not miss their daily prayers at the prescribed times, such people will receive due honor in Paradise.”

Hadees-e-Qudsi: “And when he (the worshiper) knows that it is time of Prayer and he does not pray, he is indeed careless about Me”

The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.): said, “The first thing that Allah made obligatory on my Ummah was the five prayers and the first thing they will be questioned will be the five time prayers.”

“One who adhere to the five (daily) prayers diligently, they shall be a means of illumination and salvation for him on the Day of Judgment.”

“The prayer of a person is (in reality) a light in his heart, so whoever desires, can illuminate his heart.”

“The prayer is one of the (primary) dictates of religion, in it lie the pleasure of the Lord, the Mighty and the Glorious, and it is the conducts of the prophets.”

“The prayer is the standard of Islam. Whosoever loves prayers, and observes their limits, timings and methods, is a true believer.”

The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (A.S.) said, “If the worshiper knew to what extent His (Allah’s) Mercy surrounded him during prayers, he would never raise his head from prostration.”

“No one but the Messenger (S.A.W.S.) took me the lead in prayers.”

“….Fear Allah so far as prayer is concerned because prayers are pillars of your faith….”

Imam Muhammad Baqir (A.S.): said, “Islam have been founded and established on five things: Prayers, Zakaat, Hajj, Sawm (Fasting), and Wilaya.”

“The prayer is the pillar of religion and its parable is that of a tent – when the prop remains upright, the pegs and ropes remain straight and upright, but when the prop bends or breaks neither the pegs nor ropes remain straight.”

“We command our children to offer prayers when they are five years old, so you too order your children to offer prayers (but only) when they are seven years of age.”

Imam Jaffer Al-Sadiq (A.S.): said, “The first thing for which a person shall be subjected to reckoning is prayers. If they are accepted, all his other deeds (shall) also be accepted. But if prayer is rejected, all his other deeds shall (also) be rejected.”

“Surely, the Angel of Death repels Shaitaan from the proximity of one who had adhered to and guarded his prayers, and makes him speak out the testimony “There is no God except Allah and Muhaamad is the Messenger of Allah” during that terrifying and frightening state of (death)”

We are the followers of the Master of Prostrators and the Chief of Worshippers, Imam Ali Zain-ul-Abedin (A.S.) and the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (A.S.). It is reported that Imam Ali used to pray a good portion of the night, because the neighbors could hear “Allah-o-Akber” one thousand times. Similarly, he was martyred while praying morning prayers. On the same line, on the Day of Ashura, Imam Husayn (A.S.) was martyred while he was prostrating!

It is recommended that namaaz should be performed in congregation as the reward is twenty five times more than reciting alone. Consequently, great importance have been stressed regarding Friday Prayers.

ATTRIBUTES OF ALLAH (S.W.T.)

It is our duty to know Allah. Love follows knowledge. Although, understanding or conceiving Allah is not easy. In our physical world, we comprehend every thing by our five senses. In fact, science’s area of operations is restricted to these five senses which are; seeing, hearing, smelling, touching, and tasting. But religion’s domain spreads far beyond the scientific world of physical senses. A child’s comprehension of the world around him develops in progressive steps; first when he sees an object, he retains the impressions in his mind and remembers the name for it, next time when he sees the same thing, his mind compares new impression with the original impression and recognizes the object. For example if he sees a puppy and he is told that it is called puppy. When he sees any puppy, his mind retrieves the image and name for it. Similarly, we have cognizance of objects, living things etc. with the help of our original information stored in our memory.

Because Allah does not have a body so we cannot comprehend Allah. Once, a man inquired from the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (A.S.) as to whether he had seen Allah to which the Imam (A.S.) replied that he does not worship Allah without seeing Him but with the eyes of his heart.

There is a tradition of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.), “Allah cannot be recognized by any one except Ali and myself, I cannot be recognized by anyone except Allah and Ali, and Ali cannot be recognized by anyone except Allah and me.”

By the Blessings of Chaharda Masoomeen and the Grace of Allah, we will try slowly and step by step to have some basic conception of Allah (S.W.T.).

Allah’s characteristics or attributes may be broadly divided into two groups; positive and negative. The important attributes are given below:

Positive Attributes are called “Sifaat-e-Subutiyyah” which is also “Asmaa-ul-Husna” or one of the 99 “Beautiful Names” of Allah which are explained below:

All-Perceiving (Al-Mudrik):

Allah is All-Seeing and All-Hearing; He can see and hear every thing without any need of eyes and ears.

Living (Al-Hayy):

Allah is always Alive and remains Alive for ever. His creatures are born and remain alive for designated time and then die.

Eternal (Al-Qadeem):

Allah has neither a beginning nor an end. Every life on the earth is destined to perish.

Will Power (Al-Mureed):

Allah has His own Will and Discretion in all affairs. He does every thing without interference. He is the Master of His will.

Omnipotent (Al-Qadir):

He has absolute Power over every thing and every affair. He has complete control on every thing in the universe.

Master of Speech (Al-Mutakallim):

Allah can create speech in any thing, as He did in curtain of light for Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.S.) and in a tree in case of Prophet Musa (A.S.).

Omniscient (Al-Alim):

Allah knows every thing. He knows what is in our hearts. Nothing is hidden from Him.

Truthful (As-Sadiq):

Allah is always true in His words and His promises. 

Negative Attributes are called “Sifaat-e-Salbiyyah”

These are the attributes which can not be found in Allah because they are incompatible with His Divinity.

Partner (Sharik):

Allah has no partner. He is the one only and unique.

Place (Makaan):

Because Allah has no body hence He does not need a place as His creatures need. He is every where by virtue of His Knowledge and Power which is apparent in the universe.

Visible (Mar’i):

Allah is not visible. He had not been seen in the past, is not seen now, and will never be seen in future. Because human eyes can only perceive a material body and Allah does not have a body.

Compound (Murakkab):

Allah is neither made of any parts nor composed of any material. He cannot be divided.

Needs (Ehtiyaaj):

Allah is free from wants. He is not deficient in any thing, so He does not need anything.

Incarnation (Hulool):

Allah does not enter into anything or any person nor does anything enter Him.

Change (Haadis):

Allah is not subject to any change. Like human being is first a baby, then man and lastly becomes old. Or human being is healthy then he may become sick.

Acquired Attributes (Sifaat-e-Za’id):

The Attributes of Allah are not separate from His person. Like when we say Allah is

All-knowing, we do not mean His Knowledge is separate from Him. We do not possess knowledge when we are young. We go to school or college to acquire it.

All the above Sifaat-e-Salbiyyah, which cannot be found in Allah, but are found in His creations. We have partners, we need a house to live, we are perceived by five senses, we are made up of flesh and bones, we need food and clothes, we need attention, and we are constantly changing. Our characteristics are separate from ourselves.

SURAH AL-RAHMAN

Surah-e-al Rahman was revealed in Makka and has 78 verses. It narrates about every kind of Blessings. It starts with Allah’s name “Al-Rahman” and ends also with Allah’s name “Zul Jalaal-e-Wal Ikraam”. Allah has narrated and reminded his servants about His Blessings by repetition of verse, “Fabe Ayye Alaae Rabbekuma Tukazzebaan” 31 times.

Man’s gratitude towards Allah is not commensurate with Allah’s tremendous Mercy. This is the central theme in this Surah and also in the whole Noble Qur’an.

Recitation of this Surah will have immense effects on the physical, mental and spiritual well-being on the listeners also.

This Surah is regarded as “The Beauty of the Noble Qur’an”

This is the only Surah of The Noble Qur’an in which besides men the jinn have been directly addressed. It clearly points out that the Message of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) and the Noble Qur’an is meant both for men and jinn.

The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) said, “For every thing there is a bride and the Surah al-Rahman is the bride of the Noble Qur’an.”

Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (A.S.) said, “Reciting this Surah on Friday after morning prayers carries great rewards. Recitation of this Surah removes hypocrisy from one’s heart. On the Day of Judgment, this Surah will come in the shape of a handsome human being and will have a very nice scent. Allah will tell him to point out those people who used to recite this Surah and he will name them. Then he will be allowed to beg pardon for those who he names and Allah will pardon them. If a person dies after reciting this Surah then he is considered a martyr. Writing this Surah and keeping it makes all difficulties and problems vanish and also cures eyes ailments. Writing it on the walls of a house keeps away all types of household pests. If recited at night then Allah sends an angel to guard the reciter until he wakes up and if recited in the day time then an angel guards him until sunset.”

The benefits of each and every verse or Surah of Qur’an can only be achieved if one reads, ponders over the meanings, understands and make every effort to practice in his or her life.

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

1. The Beneficent (Allah)
2. Has taught the Qur’an to (Muhammad)
3. He created the human being.
4. Taught him intelligible speech.
5. The sun and the moon rotate in a prescribed orbit.
6. The plants and trees prostrate before Him.
7. He raised the Heavens and setup every thing in balance,
8. So that you would maintain justice in balancing matters.
9. Therefore, maintain just measure and do not transgress against the Balance.
10. He spread out the earth for the people.
11. There exist all kinds of fruits, palm-trees with sheathed blossoms,
12. Grains with (its) husks and aromatic herbs.
13. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
14. He created man from dry clay like earthen vessels,
15. And He created the jinn of a flame of smokeless fire.
16. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
17. Lord of the two risings and Lord of the two settings.
18. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
19. He has made the two seas to flow freely – they meet:
20. But has created  a barrier between them so that they will not merge totally.
21. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
22. There come forth from them pearls and coral.
23. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
24. And His are the ships reared aloft in the sea like mountains.
25. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
26. Everyone on earth is destined to die.
27. Only the face (Supreme Essence) of your Glorious and Gracious Lord will remain forever.
28. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
29. Every one in the Heavens and the earth depends on Him. His task in preserving His creation is continuous.
30. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
31. Mankind and Jinn, We shall certainly settle your accounts.
32. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
33. O assembly of jinn and men! If you can penetrate the diameters of the Heavens and the earth, then do so, but you cannot do so without power and authority.
34. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
35. The flames of fire and smoke will be sent on you two, then you will not be able to defend yourselves.
36. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
37. (On the Day of Judgment) when the heavens are rent asunder they will have a flowery color as if painted as such.
38. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
39. On that day (certain) jinn and human beings will not be questioned about their sins.
40. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
41. The guilty ones will be recognized by their faces, and will be seized by their forelocks and the feet.
42. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
43. This is the Hell which the guilty call it a lie.
44. They will run around in blazing fire and hot boiling water.
45. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
46. Those who fear of the status of their Lord have two gardens.
47. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
48. They (the two gardens) are full of various trees.
49. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
50. In both of them are two fountains flowing.
51. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
52. In both of them are pairs of every fruit.
53. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
54. Reclining on beds, the inner coverings of which are of silk brocade; and the fruits of the two gardens are within reach.
55. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
56. In them are those who restrain themselves; man nor jinn have not touched them before.
57. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
58. They are as beautiful as rubies and pearls.
59. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
60. Is the reward of goodness but goodness?
61. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
62. And besides these two are two (other) gardens.
63. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
64. Both are dark green in color.
65. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
66. In both of them are two springs gushing forth.
67. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
68. In both are fruits and palms and pomegranates.
69. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
70. There are well-disciplined, beautiful maidens.
71. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
72. They (maidens) have big, black and white beautiful eyes and dwell in tents.
73. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
74. No jinn or man had touched them before them.
75. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
76. They (maidens) recline on plain green and beautifully printed cushions.
77. Which then the Bounties of your Lord will you deny?
78. Blessed be the name of your Lord, the Lord of Glory and Honor!

PARENT'S STATUS - 2

From infancy to maturity, it is unparalleled tender love and care of the parents which brings the child from the stage of weakness and helplessness to perfect strength and independence. A child is a part of his parents especially the mother who undergoes prolong pains and sufferings first to carry him or her for nine months, after his birth her discomfort continues by sleepless nights. During pregnancy, her blood is diverted to the baby. If there is any one, after the Creator, who is directly responsible for the existence and progress of a child, it is the parents. It is for this reason that Qur’an has mentioned the obedience of parents side by side with the worship of Allah.

Parental Status according to the Noble Qur’an:

1. Surah Isra verse 23, “Your Lord has ordained that you must not worship any thing other than Him, and that you must be kind to your parents. If either or both of your parents should become advanced in age, do not express to them words which show your slightest disappointment. Never dispute with them but always speak to them with kindness.”
2. Surah Isra verse 24, “Be humble and merciful towards them and say “Lord, have mercy upon them as they cherished me in my childhood.”
3. Surah Baqarah verse 83, “We made a covenant with the children of Isra’il that they should not worship any one except Me, that they should serve their parents.”
4. Surah Nisa verse 36, “Worship Allah and consider no one equal to Him. Be kind to your parents..." 
5. Surah Inaam verse 151, (Muhammad), say, “Let me tell you about what your Lord has commanded: D o not consider anything equal to Allah; be kind to your parents…..”
6. Surah Luqmaan verse 14, “(Concerning his parents), We advised the man, whose mother bears him with great pain (weakness after weakness) and breast-feeds him for two years, to give thanks to Me first and then to them; to Me all things proceed.”
7. Surah Luqmaan verse 15, “If they try to force you to consider things equal to Me, of whom you have no knowledge, do not obey them. Maintain lawful relations with them in this world and follow the path of those who turn in repentance to Me. To Me you will all return and I shall tell you all that you have done.”
8. Surah Ahqaf verse 15, “We have advised the human being to be kind to his parents; his mother bore him with hardship and delivered him while suffering a great deal of pain. The period in which his mother bore and weaned lasted for thirty months. When he grew up to manhood and became forty years old, he then said, “Lord, inspire me to give You thanks for the bounties You have granted to me and my parents, and to act righteously to please You. Lord, make my offspring virtuous. Lord, I turn to You in repentance; I am a Muslim.”
9. Surah Ibrahim verse 41, “Lord, On the Day of Judgment, forgive me and my parents and all the believers.”
10. Surah Nuh verse 28, “Lord, forgive me, my parents, the believers who have entered my home and all believing men and women.”
11. Surah Ankabut verse 8, “We have advised the human being, “Be kind to your parents. Do not obey them if they force you to consider equal to Me things which you do not know are such.”
12.  Surah Baqarah verse 215, “They ask you what to spend for the cause of Allah. (Muhammad) tell them that what ever you spend, give it to your parents, the relatives, the orphans…..What ever good you do, Allah is certainly aware of it”

Hadees-Qudsi (Words of Allah not included in the Noble Qur’an)  

I swear by My Glory and Power that if a (child is) disobedient to his parents comes to Me with all the good deeds of all the prophets; I will not accept them from him.

Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) said, “The Greatest Sins are ‘Shirk’ and disobedience of parents.”

2. “One who displeases his parents (it is as if) he displeased Allah”

3. “One who hurts his parents, hurts me and one who hurts me hurts Allah. And the one who hurts Allah is accursed.”

4. A young man was on his death-bed, when the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) came and sat beside him and asked him to recite “Shahadatain” but the youth could not speak. The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) asked if his mother was present. A woman who was sitting next to him said that she was his mother. He inquired from her if she was displeased with her son. She replied that she was not speaking with her son for the last six months. The Holy Prophet asked her to pardon him and as soon as she pardoned him he could speak the “Shahadatain”. The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) asked him, “What do you see at this moment?” The youth replied that he was seeing a dark and smelly man was holding him and was not letting him go. The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) said, “Recite the dua: Ya Man Yaqbalul Yasira Wa Ya’fo Anil Kathira Iqbal Minnil Yasira Wa Afo Anil Kathira”. Then asked, “Now what do you see?” He replied, “A fair complexion handsome man is moving towards me” The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) said, “Keep on repeating this dua”. After repeating this dua, he said, “O Prophet of Allah, both of them have disappeared”. After this the face of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) was illuminated with joy. He said, “O Allah forgive the sins of this young man” Then the youth passed away.

5. “By Allah, in whose hands is my life, to serve parents for a day and night is equal to a year of Jihad.”

6. A man came to the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) and said, “I have committed every type of sins. Is there any repentance for me?” The Holy Prophet said, “Go and do goodness to your father so that your sins may be expiated.” After the man had left, he said,” If his mother had been alive, it would have been more meritorious to do good to her.”

7. “There are three types of sins which are punished in this world; the first is “Aq-alWaladain”, second is injustice upon men, and third is thanklessness of favors”

8. “Aq-al-Waladain causes poverty and misfortunes.”

Aq-alWaladain: Means the son or daughter causes disrespect to their parents by speech or action. Or they disobey them in the matters which are reasonable and lawful.

Some time, the parents are pleased with their children during their life-time but become

“Aq” or disown them after their death and vice-versa.

Parent’s rights after their death:

First is to carryout their Wajib acts which they did not perform during their life time like prayers, fasts, Hajj if it became obligatory, and repayment of their debts.

Second is to act upon their Will and Testament.

Third is to perform good deeds for their salvation i.e. give Sadaqa, to perform charitable acts for their “Sawab-e-Jariya”, recite prayers for them.

Respect for the parents: As a mark of respect: one must not address them by name, one must not walk in front of them, while eating meals one must not start before them, while speaking one’s voice must not rise above their voice, one must not do any thing which may bring bad reputation to them, must provide necessities before making them to beg for it.

BENEFITS OF RECITING SURAH AL-YASEEN

Allah addresses mankind through The Holy Qur’an and we address Allah by our supplications. Though the entire Holy Qur’an is a miracle and the words of Allah, the special merits found in this blessed Surah particularly, can be understood by referring to the narrations, describing the extraordinary excellence and benefits available to the faithful through regular recitation of this Surah.

Islam’s foundation is based on “understanding” and the measure of nearness to Allah is the understanding of Truth. The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) is the foremost in knowledge and worship of Allah. Heart of the Universe is the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) as confirmed by The Hadees-e-Qudsi: “Had it not been for you, I would not have created Heavens.” This Surah, which specially pertains to the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.), becomes the heart of the Holy Qur’an just as he himself is the heart of the world. This Surah starts with an address to the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) as the Chief of All Messengers and the Holy Qur’an says on oath that he is among the True Messengers sent by Allah. In a subsequent verse, the Holy Qur’an tells us that all the worlds of existence are wrapped-up and placed in him; that the center and heart of the universe is Muhammad (S.A.W.S.).

A minute study of the whole Qur’an leads us to conclude that its Basic Subjects are related to:

            1. Origin of Life

            2. The Hereafter

            3. Calling people towards religion (Tauheed)

In reality, the heart of this Noble Qur’an is the verses of knowledge about Allah, The Creator and The Recaller.

Surah YaSeen may be divided into four parts:

1. Muhammad (S.A.W.S.), Holy Qur’an, objective of the message, and the lovers of this Message.
2. About the three Messengers of Allah and their invitation towards Tauheed.
3. About The Signs of Allah
4. Relates to the Day of Judgment, accountability, Paradise and Hell.

Who ever recite Surah al-Yaseen solely for seeking the Pleasure of Allah, all his sins will be forgiven and he will be given reward equal to the reward of reciting the whole Holy Qur’an twelve times. If this Surah is recited near a person who is on his deathbed, then for each letter recited, twelve angels are sent for his forgiveness and they will remain even when the soul is being taken by the Angel of Death. The angels also take part in his funeral rites. If this Surah is recited near a person who is on the verge of passing away (Sakarat-ul-Mawt) then an angel brings a drink from Paradise, and as he drinks, he feels greatly eased.

Recitation of this Surah will bring all Good (Hasana) in this life and life here-after and also safety from all evils in this life and in here-after. What ever are the Hajaat (needs) will be answered by Allah when requested after reciting this Surah. The reward of reciting this Surah is compared to performing Hajj twenty times.

Drinking the water in which this Surah is dissolved cures thousand types of illnesses.

The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) said that every thing has its heart and the heart of Holy Qur’an is Surah YaSeen.He also said that if this Surah is recited in a graveyard then all punishment is lifted for that day from all the graves and the reciter gets the reward equal to the sum of all good deeds performed by all those who are buried in that graveyard.

Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (A.S.) said that drinking this Surah after writing it in a mixture of Saffron and rose water for seven days ( it should be written fresh for each day) makes a person have such a good memory that he will never forget what ever he hears only once. If he is a debater then he will win the debate. He will command great respect and attain high status. If a breast-feeding woman drinks it, it will increase the milk.

Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (A.S.) said that whoever recites this Surah in the morning will be protected from all calamities and problems during the day and whoever recites this Surah at night will be protected from Shaitaan by seventy thousand angels. Recitation of this Surah saves the reciter from the squeezing of the grave and its torments. Passing the difficult stages in the hereafter will also be made easy for him.

Whoever keeps this Sura in his possession will be protected from the jealousy of people.

It also acts as a cure from disease.

AMRE BIL MARUF AND NAHI ANIL MUNKAR

     It is the seventh and eighth number in the “Branches of Islam” or “Furoo-e-Deen”.

Any action that is commanded by Allah, the performance of which carries rewards and its neglect is assured punishment is obligatory or Wajib. Amre Bil Maruf and Nahi Anil Munkar is a form of Jihaad.

Islam stipulates to promote good and prevent evil in the Muslim society. The promotion of good is “Amre Bil Maruf” and forbidding or preventing evil is “Nahi Anil Munkar”. Family is the basic social unit; hence this process should start from our homes. If we throw a stone in a pond of water, waves start at the point of contact with water and grow larger and larger. It is smallest at the contact point and is largest at the extreme side of the pond. Hence any type of effort should start from the home. It is a religious, moral and ethical responsibility of every Muslim to perform Amre Bil Maruf and Nahi Anil Munkar. To start with, one should know what is “Maruf” or virtues and also what is “Munkar” or sin. After we know this, we should practice ourselves before preaching to others.

Qur’anic References:

1. Let there be a group among you who will invite others to do good deeds, command them to obey the Law, and prohibit them from committing sins. These people will have eternal happiness. (Aale Imran: verse 104)
2. You are the best nation that ever existed among humanity, as long as you command people to do good, prohibit them from evil, and believe in Allah.                                                                                   (Aale Imran: verse 110)
3. They believe in Allah and the Day of Judgment. They command people to follow good, prohibit others from committing evil and compete with each other in doing good deeds. These are the righteous ones. (Aale Imran: verse 114)
4. Be they male or female hypocrites, they are the same. They make others commit sins, prevent them from doing good deeds and restrain their hands (from spending for the cause of Allah). ( Tawbah: verse 67)
5. The believers, both male and female, are each other’s protectors. They try to make others do good, prevent them from committing sins, perform their prayers, pay the religious tax, and obey Allah and His messenger. Allah will have mercy on them. Allah is Majestic and All-wise. ( Tawbah: verse 71)
6. (The believers) who repent for their sins, worship Allah, praise Him, travel through the land, bow down and prostrate themselves in obedience to Allah, make others do good and prevent them from sins and abide by the laws of Allah, will receive a great reward. Let this be good news for the believer.(Tawbah: verse112)
7. He will certainly help those who, if given power in land, will worship Allah through prayer, pay the religious tax, enjoined others to do good, and prevent them from committing evil. The consequence of all things is in the hands of Allah. (Hajj: verse 41)
8. Believers, do not follow the footsteps of Shaitaan; whoever does so will be made by Shaitaan to commit indecency and sin. (Noor: verse 21)
9. (Muhammad), recite to them what has been revealed to you in the Book and be steadfast in prayer; prayer (speaking of Allah) keeps one away from indecency  and sins. Allah’s paying attention to the worshiper is (indeed) the greatest (reward for worshiping Allah). Allah knows what you do. (Ankabut: verse 45)
10. They did not prevent each other from committing sins nor would they, themselves, stay away from them. Evil was what they had done. (Ma’idah: verse 79)

Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S) said: “A person who sees an evil act being committed should take action to prevent it, if he is capable of doing so, and if he cannot do that, he should speak out against it, but if he is not capable of even doing that, he should at least detest in his heart. It is the lowest stage of faith.” He further said: “My followers will be in good condition as long as they bid each other towards the good, forbid each other from the evil, and cooperate with each other in good deeds. If they do not do this then the heavenly blessings will be lifted from them and some evil ones among them will be imposed over them as a ruler. In that state, they will have no helper, neither on the earth nor in the heaven.

Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (A.S.) said: “He who abandons forbidding what is wrong theoretically and practically (and is indifferent while seeing vices being committed) is a moving corpse among the living.” He further said: “Indeed the Almighty has cursed those who came before you for neglecting Amre Bil Maruf and Nahi Anil Munkar. Thus there is a curse upon the ignorant sinners and the intelligent people who neglect Amre Bil Maruf and Nahi Anil Munkar.”

Imam Ali, Zain-ul-Abedeen (A.S.), who witnessed the tragedy and humiliation of Ahlul Bayt (A.S.) still he did not stop preaching Amre Bil Maruf and Nahi Anil Munkar. He said: “He who leaves enjoining good and forbidding the evil is like him who leaves Allah’s Book behind, unless he shows precautionary decimation. Allah, the Glorified, sent the Prophets and the Trustees (of authority) to speak, not to keep silent.

Imam Mohammad Baqir (A.S.) said: “The Almighty Allah revealed to Prophet Shoaib “I will destroy hundred thousand people from your nation, forty thousand of whom are sinners and sixty thousand are righteous.” On inquiry from Prophet Shoaib, Allah replied,“Because they used to socialize with the sinners and in spite of My dislike, they never disliked the sinners. They never restrained them from sins.”

Master of the Martyrs, Imam Husayn (A.S.), prepared a will and handed over to his brother, Muhammad Hanafiyya. In this will the Imam (A.S.) wrote: “My Mission is to reform the Muslim community which I propose to do by Amre Bil Maruf and Nahi Anil Munkar, inviting them to the good and advising them against evil. It is not my intention to set myself as an insolent or an arrogant tyrant or a mischief-maker.”

Imam Jaffer Sadiq (A.S.) said: “If a momin sees another momin committing sin and is capable of stopping him but did not do so is a dishonest person.”

“When a man commits sin under cover then he is hurting only himself but if he does so openly and is not restrained by others then he is hurting the society.”

MASTER OF THE PROSTRATORS, IMAM ZAIN-UL-ABEDEEN(A.S.)

Imam Ali, Zain-ul-Abedeen, was the son of Master of the Martyrs, Imam Husayn (A.S.). His mother was Shaher Bano, daughter of the last Persian king, Yazdjurd. He was born in Madina on 5^th Shabaan 38 A.H. He was entrusted with the Divine Imamate on the day of Ashura 61A.H. He led the imprisoned Ahlul Bayt women and children from Karbala to Kufa and then to Damascus. This was the most painful and humiliated journey.

When Yazid tried to talk in an insulting manner, he bravely spoke the truth whereupon Yazid threatened to kill him but Hazrat Zainab (S.A.) intervened. During this journey, he delivered sermons introducing himself and Ahlul Bayt and explained the objectives of their sacrifices to save Islam. When the news of Tragedy of Karbala spread far and wide and signs of revolt were apparent, Yazid released the Ahlul Bayt. Hazrat Zaynab (S.A.) asked for a house so as to arrange the mourning of the martyrs of Karbala. This was the first Majlis for the martyrs. Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen and the AhlulBayt returned to Madina en route to Karbala.

The Imam (A.S.) led a quite life after return to Madina. Yazid’s army ruthlessly suppressed the revolt in Madina. His army turned the Holy Mosque of the Prophet into stable for horses, killed hundreds of innocent Muslims, and destroyed the chaste of numerous women. These beasts destroyed Madina for three days. The Imam lived 35 years after Karbala tragedy. Because of the unfavorable circumstances, the Imam started writing supplications, which demonstrates the immense knowledge of the family of “The Gateway of Knowledge”

His supplications were collected in the famous book, “Saheefa-e-Sajjadia”. The book is next to his grandfather, Imam Ali (A.S.)’ “Nahjul Balagha”.

Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen (A.S.) also compiled a treatise known as “Risalat-ul-Huqooq” which contains the rights of human beings. If one compares this book with the United Nation’s “Charter of Human Rights” it appears to have been copied from this Risala.

The Imam would carry bags of bread on his back at night, without showing his identity, would go round in Madina and distribute among needy. Only his close companions knew it.

Hisham Ibne Abdul Malik, the heir apparent of the caliph, was visiting Makka and was sitting in a chair waiting to kiss the Black Stone in Ka’aba, he saw that an old man came towards the Black Stone and the crowd automatically separated to give way to him. The old man gracefully came and kissed the Black Stone and left. He knew who the old man was. It was Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen (A.S.) but to overcome his embarrassment, he inquired from his companions. The famous poet of Arabia, Farazdaq, compiled a poetry extempore praising the Imam. Some of the stanza of his poem reads as, “He is who that whole Makka knows him. Every stone in Ka’aba knows him. He is the grandson of Fatima and Ali and The Holy Prophet.”

Hisham became furious and imprisoned him. When Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen(A.S.) came to know, he send some money to Farazdaq who said that he composed that poetry for the sake of Allah and Hereafter and did not want any worldly compensation.

It is said that after Karbala, the Imam wept and cried for a long time and when someone asked as to how long he was going to cry because martyrdom was the grace and inheritance of Ahlul Bayt. The Imam replied that humiliation was not the inheritance of Ahlul Bayt.

The Imam through his quiet teachings by supplications has left many pupils. Abu Hamza al Thamali was one of them. The Imam had taught him a supplication known as “Duae Abu Hamza Thamali”. Abu Makhnuf was another companion who was told by Imam Mohammad Baqir (A.S.) to write the story of Karbala in narrative form which became a part of the majlis all over the world.

Walid ibne Abdul Malik, the monarch at Damascus realized that Imam’s teaching was spreading all over Arabia, hence he poisoned the Imam and he was martyred on 25^th of Muharrum 95 A.H.

Once a person asked Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen (A.S.), “What is the criterion for the acceptance of the prayers? The Imam replied, “Acknowledging our Wilayah and dissociating from our enemies.”

The reason why the Imam was given the title of “Zain-ul-Abedeen” was that one night the Imam was praying and Shaitaan manifested himself as a huge serpent and tried to distract him. When the Imam did not take notice of him, he bite the big toe causing pain to run through him, but despite this act of his, the Imam continued to remain oblivious of him, and carried on with his prayers. When, after completing his prayers, the Imam realized that it was Shaitaan, he cursed him saying, “O’ Accursed! Go away” and once again engaged himself in worship. It was at this moment that he heard an angel call three times: “You are the embellishment of the worshippers.”

Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen (A.S.) said, “The attributes of a believer are: piety in private, donating charity at the time of need, patience when misfortune comes, tolerance at the time of anger, and truthfulness when there is fear.”

During the days of childhood, the Imam fell sick. Imam Husayn (A.S.) inquired about his health and he asked further if he had any wish. The Imam replied, “My only wish is that may Allah count me among those who do not have any wish against His“Divine Decree and Divine Estimation” or “Qaza-o-Qadr”

The Imam used to tremble while praying and his face would turn yellow while performing ablution due to fear of Allah.

Once, Imam was praying and Imam Mohammad Baqir was a young boy. He fell in a well and his mother was upset and calling the Imam to rescue the boy. The Imam peacefully completed his prayer and after finishing it, he went near the well and put his hand in the well and pulled out Imam Baqir without wetting his clothes.

After his return from Karbala, his uncle Mohammad-e- Hanafiyya, asked the Imam to give him the sacred assets of Imamate as he was the elder in the family. The Imam advised him to accompany him to Holy Ka’aba and let the Black Stone decide about the Imamate. By the order of Allah, there was a voice from the Black Stone saying, “Imamate is the right of Zain-ul-Abedeen”

At the time of the destruction of Madina, Marwaan, who was an enemy of Ahlul Bayt, came to the Imam for shelter of his family. The Imam gladly provided the requested shelter.

Similarly, Haseen Ibne Numair, one of the murderers in Karbala, requested to buy food grains from the Imam. The Imam said that he did not want to sell it but can give him free.

One of his Shias from Balakh used to come for Hajj and visit the Imam. Once his wife told him, “You always take gifts for your Imam but has your Imam ever given you anything?” Next year when he visited the Imam the Imam asked him to join him for food. After finishing the food, the Imam wanted to pour water on his hands to wash. When the pot was full with dirty water, the Imam asked him, “What is it?” He said water. The Imam said, “Look carefully” When he looked carefully he saw red gems instead of water. The Imam told him to give it to his wife.

Umer Ibne Abdul Aziz was the only exception in the corrupt Umayyad Dynasty. When he was the Governor of Hejaz, one of the walls of Prophet’s mausoleum fell down. After repair, he invited Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen (A.S.) to perform the opening ceremony of the mosque . He was the one who returned the Garden of Fidak to Bani Hashim and also stopped the derogatory remarks upon the Commander of the Faithful.

SAYINGS OF IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.)

Imam Husayn (A.S.) who was the son of The Gate Way of Knowledge, The Orator of The Pulpit of “Salooni”, The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (A.S.) had shared some Pearls of Wisdom. These are reproduced below:

• The true stingy is the one who refrains from greeting.
• There are seventy advantages for the greeting. Sixty nine is given to the one who greets first and one is given to the one who responds the greetings.
• Habib Ibne Mazahir narrates that once he asked Imam Husayn (A.S.), “What were you before the creation of Adam? Imam replied, “We were the spiritual lights orbiting The Highest Heaven and teaching the angels praising and glorification.”
• The Noble Qur’an has an elegant outward and profound inward.
• When asked, what is affluence? Imam replied, “Decreasing your wishes, and being satisfied with what is enough for you.”
• Commander of the Faithful asked Imam Husayn (A.S.), “O’ Son! What is being honorable? He replied, “Benevolence to family members and bearing their losses”
• Nothing is more disgraceful for the learned than greed.
• Nothing is more disgraceful for nobleman than telling lies.
• Nothing is more disgraceful for the rulers than treating their subordinates cruelly.
• Nothing is more disgraceful for old people than being slaves to their worldly desires.
• Endure difficulties when you walk on the Divine Path, and resist the temptation of worldly pleasures.
• Do not try to find faults with others, instead, when someone makes a small blunder try to cover up for him and justify his mistakes.
• Tears of the eyes and fear of the hearts are among the Graces of Almighty.
• Those who are reduced to tears after hearing sufferings of my family, their tears will protect them from Hell and Allah will place them up in Paradise.
• The Holy Book of Allah contains four items; words, implications, esoteric points, and realities. Words for common people, implications for special people, esoteric points for Divine leaders, and realities for the Prophets.
• O’ Son of Adam! Your life comprises of passing days, with each day passing, a part of you goes away for good.
• Imam was asked as to why Almighty Allah made it compulsory to fast. He replied “To make the rich taste hunger and be merciful towards the needy.”
• Contentment causes the comfort of body.
• Continuous experience increases intellect, honor and piety.
• Death with dignity is better than life with humility.
• In your friend’s absence, speak of him the way you like him to speak of you in your absence.
• The Imam (A.S.) advised Ibne Abbas, “Do not talk about something which does not concern you, because I fear you commit a sin, and do not talk in what concerns you unless there is an occasion for it.”
• Moderation is wisdom.
• Generosity is prosperity.
• Greediness is poverty.
• Silence is an ornament (for men).
• Good manner is (counted as) a worship.
• Aiding (others) is (a sign of) truthfulness.
• Your neighbors are like your relatives.
• People’s secrets are properties held in trust with you.
• Telling lies is a sign of weakness.
• Telling the truth brings about honor.
• Whoever accepts your grants, he has helped you with your generosity.
• Do not assume responsibility for a task, unless you are sure you can handle it competently.
• Spend as much as you earn, not more.
• When a poor man begs for your help, his pride is hurt. Then you do not deal another blow to his pride by letting him down.
• Avoid doing what you might later be asked to apologize for it! Because the believer does not harm and does not ask for apology, while the hypocrite always harms and apologizes.
• Addressing his son, Ali (A.S.), the Imam (A.S.) said, “O’ my son, be afraid of oppressing the one who has no defender except Allah.”
• Those who worship Allah sincerely will be rewarded far more than they have wished and even more than what they deserved.
• Best of wealth is that with which one protects his fame and dignity.
• The Almighty Allah elevates His worshippers for their patience in enduring difficulties.
• Tolerance is a man’s ornament, keeping promises is a sign of nobility, and bonding with others is a grace.
• Your best relation is the one who comes to you and helps you when you have severed relations with him.
• The most merciful person is the one who forgives when is able to take revenge.
• Noble and eminent person controls his tongue and does good deeds.
• A man came to Imam Husayn (A.S.) and said, “I am a sinful man and cannot avoid doing sin, please advise me.” The Imam said, “If you can do these five things, then commit sin as much as you like. First of all: Do not eat the sustenance of Allah. Second: Go beyond the domain of Allah. Third: Seek a site where Allah cannot observe you. Fourth: If the angel of death comes to take away your soul, expel him from you. Fifth: If the angel of Hell was about to throw you in Hell Fire, stop him.
• Associating with corrupt people makes you subject to suspicion.
• Whoever seeks the satisfaction of people through disobedience of Allah, then Allah subjects him to people.

DEFECTION OF HUR FROM YAZID'S ARMY

Hur was a career officer in Yazid’s army stationed at Kufa garrison. He was sent with an army of 1000 men to intercept Imam Husayn (A.S.). Hur knew that the government did not want Imam Husayn ( A.S.) to enter Kufa. But as a professional soldier he did not concern himself with the political issues. His duty was to execute the orders of his superiors. However, an Islamic conscience was lurking in his tough military heart.

Hur and his 1000 strong army met Imam Husayn ( A.S.) and his companions outside Kufa. Hur and his soldiers were traveling for a long time in the desert and consequently they were thirsty. Hur requested Imam Husayn ( A.S.) for water for his army. Imam Husayn (A.S.) asked Hazrat Abbas (A.S.), Hazrat Ali Akber, Hazrat Qasim and others to provide water to Hur’s army and also to their horses. Water in those days in the desert was a valuable commodity. However, the son of “Saqi-e-Kausar” showed benevolence.

After Hur’s army quenched their thirst, it was time for Zuhar prayers. Congregational prayers were led by Imam Husayn ( A.S.) and Hur and his army prayed behind Imam Husayn (A.S.)!

After the prayers, Hur told Imam Husayn (A.S.) that his orders were to stop the Imam from entering Kufa except if he pays allegiance (Bai’at) to Yazid. Imam Husayn (A.S.) said that he would never give allegiance to a man who was an unjust ruler and was determined to destroy Islam. In any case he was going to Kufa because people had invited him. The Imam produced two sacs of letters and petitions from the people of Kufa who were begging him to go there. Hur said that as his orders were not to allow the Imam to go to Kufa there was nothing he could do save carry out the orders.

From modern military warfare strategies, it is one of the tactics to destroy the enemy’s line of supplies. If Imam Husayn (A.S.) would have been on an adventure to grab power, it was a golden opportunity to deprive water to Hur’s army and let the enemy die of thirst.

But as Imam Husayn (A.S.), like rest of The Ahlul Bayt (A.S.) who always acted not for personal glory but for the sake of Allah.

The Imam told Hur that he will take another route and go away from Kufa. Hur said that his orders were to stop Imam Husayn (A.S.). Saying this, Hur placed his hand on the reigns of Imam Husayn (A.S.)’s horse. The Imam became furious and said, “May your mother mourn your death”. Hur said that he could have replied to him but he could not take Imam’s mother’s name.  And so, followed by Hur and his 1000 strong army, the Imam and his companions rode in the direction away from Kufa.

On the 2^nd. Muharram, they reached Karbala. Imam Husayn (A.S.) purchased a piece of land and pitched his tents. Hur and his soldiers pitched their camps some distance away.

Next day, Umer bin Sa’ad came with an army of 4,000 men. Umer Sa’ad was the commander of the Yazid’s army. He had several meetings with the Imam and he was so impressed with the Imam that he also prayed behind Imam Husayn (A.S.). When Ibne Ziad heard this, he was very furious. He sent Shimer with 10,000 men and wrote a letter to Umer Sa’ad ordering him to take Bai’at from Imam Husayn (A.S.) or kill him. Umer bin Sa’ad immediately changed his attitude towards Imam Husayn (A.S.).

Following his instructions, he imposed restrictions on Imam Husayn (A.S.) and his followers from getting water from the Euphrates, and from the 7^th Muharram, no one from Imam’s camp was allowed near the river Euphrates.

On the Night of Ashura, Hur was very restless. He could hear the children from Imam Husayn (A.S.)'s camp crying because of thirst. His conscience whispered to Hur: “What have you done Hur? Why did you put the son of Fatima (S.A.)in this position? Will Allah ever forgive you?” This was the rising of his dormant Islamic conscience. This career soldier could not sleep the whole night. Within him there was a struggle between his duty as a soldier and his Islamic conscience. He had been a professional soldier the whole life. He believed in his obedience to his superiors and the military discipline. Now the issues were moral and touched the very core of Islam. Hur’s conscience compelled him to consider these issues.

Before dawn he made up his mind. Hur, his slave and his son rode over to Imam Husayn (A.S.)’ camp. The Imam was sitting outside his tent. When he saw this small band of people who had deserted the enemy’s ranks and saw the light of Iemaan and followed their conscience. The Imam called Hazrat Abbas (A.S.), Hazrat Ali Akber and Hazrat Qasim and asked them to go and welcome the visitors. It is reported that Hur had asked his son to fasten his hands like a criminal. Hur came and fell on the feet of the Imam and pleaded for his forgiveness. Imam Husayn (A.S.) took Hur in his arms and said: “Hur I forgive you. I assure you that my grandfather also forgives you. You are Hur in this world and the Hereafter!”

From 7^th Muharrum onwards, when thousands of enemy forces were arriving and no one came to help Imam Husayn( A.S.), one can imagine the state of affair in the minds of every one in the Imam’s camp .Ahlul Bayt are always ready and willing to forgive the true sentiments of regret.

The defection of a commander of 1000 troops from the side of falsehood to the side of truth and righteousness, is a momentous event in the history of Karbala. He chose to move from, a side which in a few hours would be victorious and would shower worldly compensation from his superiors, to the side of a few hungry and thirsty men. This marks a great victory for Imam Husayn (A.S.) and Islam. One can capture the body but not the heart or soul. Over the centuries, Ahlul Bayt (A.S.) had touched and captured the hearts of Millions of human beings, whether Muslim or Non-Muslim.

SAYINGS OF THE MASOOMEEN ABOUT TRAGEDY OF KARBALA

The Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.) said to the Lady of Paradise:

 “On the Day of Judgment, you shall intercede for the ladies, and I shall intercede for the men; every person who has wept over the tragedy of Husayn (A.S.), we shall take him by the hand and lead him into the Paradise”. He further said, “Surely, there exists in the hearts of the Momineen, with respect to the martyrdom of Husayn (A.S.) a heat that never subsides.”

Commander of the faithful(A.S.) said:

 “Surely, Allah has chosen for us followers who assist us and are happy at our happiness and are sad in our sadness.” He said to Ibne Abbas, “(Once, when he happened to passed by Karbala), Isa (A.S.) sat down and began to weep. His disciples were observing him, followed suit and began weeping too, but not knowing the reason for this behavior, they asked him: “O” spirit of God! What is it that makes you weep? Isa (A.S.) said, “Do you know what land this is? The disciples replied: “No” He then said: “This is the land, on which the son of Prophet Ahmad (S.A.W.S) shall be killed.”

Imam Zain-ul-Abedin(A.S.) used to say:

 “Every Momin, whose eyes shed tears upon the killing of Husayn (A.S.) and his companions, such that tears roll down his cheeks, Allah shall accommodate him in the elevated rooms of Paradise.”

Imam Mohammad Baqir(A.S.) said:

 “Those who cannot go for Ziarat of Imam Husayn (A.S.) on the day of Ashura, should mourn over Husayn (A.S.), weep for him and also instruct his family members to do so, the people should meet one another and offer condolences and consolations to each other.” He further said, “Commander of the Faithful, along with two of his companions, happened to pass by Karbala, tears filled his eyes. He said to them, “This is the resting place of their animals; and this is where their luggage will be laid down; and it is here that their blood shall be shed. Blessed are you O’ earth, that the blood of the beloved shall be spilled upon you.” He further added, “He who remembers us, or in whose presence, we are remembered, and tears flow from his eyes, even though they may be in the measure of a mosquito wing, Allah shall construct for him a house in Paradise and make the tears a barrier between him and the Hell Fire”

Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (A.S.) said:

“There is none who recites poetry about Husayn (A.S.) and weeps and makes others weep by means of it, except that Allah makes Paradise incumbent upon him and forgives his sins”

“All praise is for Allah, who has placed amongst the people, those who arrive in our presence, eulogizing us and reciting elegies about us.”

“As for Ali Ibn al-Husayn (A.S.), he cried over Husayn (A.S.) for twenty years never would any food placed before him except that he would begin to weep.”

“He in whose presence we (and our miseries) are mentioned and, as a result, his eyes pour out tears, Allah shall make his face forbidden upon the Fire of Hell.”

“May Allah have mercy upon your tears! Do know that you are regarded as being of those who are deeply concerned about us and of those who are happy at our happiness and aggrieved at our sorrow. Do know that you shall witness the presence of my fathers near you at the time of your death.”

“O’ Lord, have mercy upon those eyes, which have shed tears in compassion for us; and upon those hearts which have been restless and blistered for us; and upon those wailings, which have been for us.”

“He whose eyes shed tears for our blood which has been shed, or for our rights which have been usurped, or for the humiliation meted out to us or to one of our Shiites, Allah shall accommodate him in Paradise for a long time.”

“O’Zurarah! The sky had cried for forty days over the martyrdom of Husayn (A.S.)”

“The breath of one who is aggrieved upon the injustice and oppression subjected to us, is ‘tasbeeh’ (glorification of Allah), and his grief for us is ‘ibadah’ (worship of Allah) and his concealing our secrets, is ‘jihad’ in the path of Allah. The Imam (A.S.) then added: This tradition ought to be written in gold.”

“Allah has appointed to the grave of Imam Husayn (A.S.), four thousand anguished and grief-stricken angels, who weep over him (and shall continue to do so) up to the Day of Judgment”

“The zaair (pilgrim) of Imam Husayn (A.S.) turns back (from his pilgrimage) such that not a single sin remains upon him.”

(Regarding the zaair of Imam Husayn (A.S.) he said, “One who weeps for Imam Husayn, surely, the Imam (A.S.) observes him and seeks forgiveness for him and requests his Holy Fathers to (also) seek forgiveness for him”

“He (Imam Husayn) sees those who come to his shrine, and he knows them by their names, their father’s name and their ranks in the eyes of Allah, The Mighty, The Glorious, better than you know your children”

Imam Ali al-Raza (A.S.) said:

“The one for whom the day of Ashura is a day of tragedy, grief and weeping, Allah the Mighty, the Glorious, shall make the day of Judgment, a day of joy and happiness for him”

“With the advent of the month of Muharram, my father Imam Kazim (A.S.) would never be seen laughing; gloom and sadness would overcome him for the first ten days of the month, and when the tenth day would dawn, it would be a day of tragedy, grief and weeping.”

“If you desire that for you to get the reward equivalent to that of those martyred along with (Imam) Husayn (A.S.), then whenever you remember him say: O! Would that I have been with them! A great achievement would I have achieved!”

“O’ Son of Shabib, If you have to cry over something, then do so over Husayn Ibne Ali (A.S.) for surely, he was slaughtered in the manner a ram is slaughtered.”

“He who sits in a gathering in which our affairs (and our path and aims) are discussed and revived, his heart shall not die on the day (Day of Judgment) when hearts shall die of fear”

“O’ Son of Shabib! If it makes you happy (and you desire) to be with us in the elevated ranks of Paradise, then be sad in our grief and happy at our happiness”

“One who refrains from seeking his worldly desires on the Day of Ashura, Allah shall grant him his desires of the world and hereafter.”

MASTER OF THE MARTYRS IN THE EYES OF NON-MUSLIMS

The Grand son of The Prophet of Islam, Imam Husayn (A.S.) is revered and respected by the Muslims for centuries for his matchless sacrifice in the annals of human history.

Imam Husayn (A.S.) did not belong to Muslims only. As the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.)

said, “Hussayno Minni Wa Ana Minal Husayn “meaning “Husayn is from me and I am from Husayn”. As the Prophet of Islam was sent by Allah as “Rehmat” for the universe, hence Imam Husayn’s sacrifice had universal appeal. Imam Husayn was introduced to NON-Muslims on the eve of Mubahalah when Christians from Najran came to Madina and discussed about unity of God.

Another case of a non-Muslim influenced by Imam’s stand for truth and righteousness was a Christian, Wahab Al-Kalbi who met the Imam on the way to Karbala. When his mother learned about Imam Husayn (A.S.), she narrated that when she was pregnant, the physicians told her that the delivery will be fatal. Wahab’s father went to Imam Ali (A.S.) and requested him to pray who agreed to do so. Hence Wahab was born safely. She persuaded Wahab to go and sacrifice his life for the Imam. Infact, Wahab was married for two months but ultimately the whole family joined the Imam at Karbala. Wahab sacrificed his life first and his wife followed by becoming the first female martyr of Karbala.

In the court of Yazid, when he was misbehaving with Imam Husayn (A.S.)’s head, the ambassador of Rome was watching it. He enquired from Yazid as to whose head was that. On learning his connection with the Prophet of Islam he told Yazid that he was from the lineage of Prophet Dawood and that people still respect him and it was tragic that Holy Prophet (S.A.W.S.)’s grandson was being disrespectedby Muslims. Yazid threatened to kill him whereupon the Christian ambassador said that was not afraid of death and that he had seen the Prophet of Islam in his dream. He bravely declared his conversion to Islam.

 Reproduced below are the compliments of Non-Muslims about him:

Mahatma Gandhi of India:

            I wanted to know the best of the life of one who holds today an undisputed

            sway over the hearts of millions of mankind…I became more than ever

            convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days

            in the scheme of life. It was the rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement

            of Hussain, the scrupulous regard for pledges, his intense devotion to his

            friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in

God and in his own mission to save Islam. During the famous “Salt March” 

Mahatma Gandhi took 72 companions with him to achieve victory!

Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru of India (The first prime minister):

            Imam Hussain’s sacrifice is for all groups and communities, an example of

            the path of righteousness.

Dr. Radha Krishnan (Former President of India)

            Though Imam Hussain gave his life years ago, but his indestructible soul

            rules the hearts of people even today.

Rabindranath Tagore (Freedom fighter of India)

            In order to keep alive justice and truth, instead of an army or weapons, success

            can be achieved, by sacrificing lives, exactly what Imam Hussain (A.S.) did.

Charles Dickens (English Novelist)

            If Hussain wanted to quench his worldly desires…then I do not understand

            why his sister, wife and children accompanied him. It stands to reason

            therefore, that he sacrificed purely for Islam.

Thomas Carlyle (Scottish historian and essayist)

            The best lesson which we get from the tragedy of Cerebella is that Hussain and

            his companions were rigid believers in God. They illustrated that the numerical

            superiority does not count when it comes to the truth and the falsehood.

            The victory of Hussain, despite his minority, marvels me!

Edward Gibbon (English historian and Member of Parliament)

            In a distant age and climate, the tragic scene of the death of Hosein will

            awaken the sympathy of the coldest reader.

Edward G. Brown (Professor at the University of Cambridge)

            “…..a reminder of the blood-stained field of Karbala, where the grandson of

            the Apostle of God fell, at length, tortured by thirst, and surrounded by the

            bodies of his murdered kinsmen, has been at any time since then, sufficient to

            invoke, even in the most lukewarm, and the heedless, the deepest emotion,

            the most frantic grief, and an exaltation of spirit before which, pain, danger,

            and death shrinks to unconsidered trifles.” (A Literary history of Persia, London)

Antoine Bara (Lebanese writer)

            No battle in the modern and past history of mankind has earned more

            sympathy and admiration as well as provided more lessons than the

            Martyrdom of Hussain in the battle of Karbala. (Husayn in Christian Ideology)

Dr. Rajendra Prasad (The First President of India)

            The sacrifice of Imam Hussain is not limited to one country, or nation

            but it is a hereditary state of the brotherhood of all mankind.

THE YOUNG MARTYRS OF MUSLIM BIN AQEEL(A.S.)

Aqeel (A.S.) was one of the brothers of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (A.S.).

Muslim (A.S.) was the son of Aqeel (A.S.). Muslim (A.S.) had two sons aged about 10 and 12 years. The name of older son was Muhammad and the younger one was Ibrahim.

There are two versions of their whereabouts. One version states that they were with their father Muslim bin Aqeel (A.S.) in Kufa at the time of his martyrdom. The second version says that they were with Imam Hussayn (A.S.) in Karbala and subsequently imprisoned in Kufa. But it is confirmed that they were in Kufa and imprisoned. They were in prison for about one year. They underwent extreme hardships. They were provided barley bread and one cup of water every day.

After a year they talked to each other and decided to disclose their identity to the jailor. When the jailor came to know that they were from Ahlul Bayt and belonged to the Hashemite tribe, he apologized to them and set them free. He also gave them some provisions and direction to Madina. As it was becoming dark, they lost their way to Madina. They were tired and exhausted and approached an old woman who was sitting outside her house and requested for shelter for the night. When she learnt that they were from Prophet’s family, she was very kind to them. But she was worried about her son-in-law, Harith who was a supporter of Ibne Ziyad, the governor of Kufa. Earlier, the Governor had proclaimed that two prisoners had escaped from prison and offered to pay two thousands Dirham to any one who would bring the heads of the sons of Muslim bin Aqeel.

The two brothers slept in a dark room. Both the brothers saw their father in the dream. They woke up and started crying and sharing their dream with each other. Harith had returned home and was sleeping when he heard the crying voices. He searched the whole house and found them. He bound their feet together and attached to a pillar.

Next morning, Harith ordered his slave to take them to the river, kill them and bring back their heads. The slave refused to comply when he learnt that the boys were from Ahlul Bayt. He asked his son to kill them but he also refused. Finally, the man took the boys to the Euphrates River to kill them. They pleaded with him to sell them as slaves rather than kill them. But he refused. They again pleaded with him to take them to Ibne Ziyad, and let him decide their fate. But the cruel and greedy man would not listen. He said, “I better earn his nearness by spilling your blood and also collect the prized Dirham. They finally requested permission to offer prayer, which was granted.

After the prayers, they looked up towards heaven and prayed, “O’ Thou Alive, O’ Thou Wise, O’ Who is the best of all the Judges. Thou judge us and him with justice.” Then the evil man killed the older brother first and threw his head-less body in the river, the body waited for the younger brother. When the younger brother was also killed and thrown his body in the river then both the brothers bodies swept away simultaneously.

The man wrapped their heads in a cloth and took it to the court of Ibne Ziyad to collect two thousand Dirham in bounty. Their tomb is at Musaiyab, a place about 10 miles from Karbala.

It is to be noted that the children of Ahlul Bayt also remember prayers in the face of any catastrophe.

It is an irony that Imam Ali at the age of about 11 years offered to help the Holy Prophet to assist him and defend Islam at the First Feast in Islam called “Dawat-e-ZulAshira” in Makkah, when Allah directed his Prophet to warn his kin’s and community members. As time passed, Imam Ali(A.S.)’s Zulfiqar saved and protected not only Islam but the Holy Prophet(S.A.W.S) at the battles of Uhad, Badr, Khandaq, and Khyber, to name a few. He saved the Prophet of Islam on the night of Hijra by sleeping in the Prophet’s bed. On that night, who ever slept on that bed was sure to be killed. The Quraish were waiting to kill the Prophet in the morning. In return for these valiant and brave services to Islam and the Prophet of Islam, Imam Ali and his Ahlul Bayt were made to pay dearly. This onslaught reached the zenith at Karbala. Allah says in Qur’an, “Hal Jaza-al- Ehsaan Illal Ehasn?” meaning is it not the reward of gratefulness or favor, gratefulness? History narrates that instead of respecting and loving Ahlul Bayt, the Muslims mercilessly killed, tortured and imprisoned the Ahlul Bayt from Imam Ali (A.S.) to Imam Hasan al-Askari (A.S.)!

.

EID-E-MUBAHELAH

In the early days of Islam, Najran was a big centre whose inhabitants were idol-worshippers.

Subsequently, they accepted Christianity as their religion. Najran is still there in Saudi Arabia, south of Jeddah. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) had sent letters to the heads of different countries inviting them to Islam. One such letter was sent to the Christians of Najran.

It read as follows:

In the name of the God of Ibrahim, Ishaaq and Yaqoob. This letter is from Muhammad, the Prophet and Messenger of Allah to the Bishop of Najran.

Praise be to the God of Ibrahim, Ishaaq, and Yaqoob. I invite you to worship Allah instead of His servants. I invite you to come out of the rule of servants of Allah and into the rule of Allah Himself.

It is also stated that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) included the following verse of the Noble Qur’an:

“Say, (O’Muhammad) O People of the Book (Bible), come to an agreement between us and you; that we shall worship none but Allah and that we shall claim no partner to Him, and that none of us shall take others for lords besides Allah”

And if they turn away, then say, “Bear witness that we are Muslims (those who have surrendered to Allah).

This was the event of 10 A.H. Sixty very learned priests headed by their chief monk priest, Abdul Masih came to Madina and went straight to meet the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.)dressed in silken clothes. The Prophet did not like their attire and turned his face away from them.

The Commander of the faithful, Maula Mushkil-Kusha came to their rescue and advised them to dress in simple clothes. When they returned wearing simple clothes, the Prophet

warmly welcomed them.

 Following conversation took place:

The Holy Prophet: I invite you towards the belief of Tauheed and the worship of one God and submission to His will. (Then he recited verse 64 of Sura al-Aale Imran.)

Abdul Masih: If Islam means faith in the one God of the universe, we already believe in Him and follow His commands.

The Holy Prophet: Islam has a few signs and some of your actions show that you have not accepted true Islam. How do you claim worship of one God when you worship the cross and do not abstain from eating pork and believe that God has a son?

Abdul Masih: Certainly he [Isa (a.s.)] was the son of God because his mother Mary [Mariyam (s.a.)] had given birth to him without marrying any one in the world. Therefore, obviously his father is the God of this universe. And also because he used to bring dead back to life, cure the sick and create birds from clay and make them fly. All this points to the fact that he is God.

The Holy Prophet: No, he was the servant and creature of God, and placed in the womb of his mother Maryam (s.a.). All his power and strength was granted to him by God.

At this time, Archangel Jibra’eel brought the following verse of Noble Qur’an:

“Surely the example of Isa to Allah is like that of Adam; He created him from dust and the said to him, “Be” and he was” (Noble Qur’an 3:59)

This meant that if Isa (a.s.) could be called the son of God because he was born without father, then Adam (a.s.) deserves this title more because he was born without a father and mother. The priests could not reply to this argument and continued to argue out of obstinacy.

Then the following verse was revealed:

              “And whoever argue with you in this matter after what has come to you of knowledge then say, come, let us call our sons and your sons, and our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves, then let us humbly pray (to our Lord) and invoke the curse of Allah upon the liars” (Noble Qur’an 3:61)

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) produced this verse before the priests and challenged of “Mubahala”. The priests consulted each other and accepted the challenge. It was agreed between the two parties that the contest would take place the next day in the open desert outside Madina. On 24^th Zilhajj, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) came out for Mubahala. He was holding Imam Hussayn (a.s.) in his arms, and held Imam Hasan (a.s.) by his hand. Lady of Paradise Bibi Fatima (s.a.) was behind him, while behind her was the Lion of Allah, Imam

Ali (a.s.). The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said to them, “When I pray you should say Ameen”.

In obedience to verse of Mubahala sent by Allah, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) brought Imam

Hasan and Imam Hussayn (a.s.) as his “SONS”, Bibi Fatima (s.a.) as his “WOMEN” and Imam Ali (a.s.) as his “SELF”

The priests by seeing these beautiful and shining faces were spellbound. Their hearts trembled and they began to shake on seeing the power radiating from Ahlul Bayt (a.s.).

Their leader asked someone “who are these persons who have come with Muhammad”

The man told their names and their relationship with the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.)

He could hold his patience no longer and he cried out:

“By God, I am seeing such faces that if they were to pray to God to move the mountain, God Almighty would move the mountain for them. O You People of Najran, if you contest with Muhammad in this prayer of invoking curses on the liars, then I warn you that all of you will be destroyed and not a single soul will remain on this earth. I feel that it would be better to surrender to them and obey them”

When the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) heard these words, he remarked:

“By God, had the Christians of Najran contested with us, they would have been transformed into monkeys and swines. Fire would have rained over them”  

It is a historic event of a unique triumph of Islam. This event unquestionably establishes the truth about the spiritual purity of the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). It proves beyond doubt as to who are the members of The House of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.).

There is a point to remember that Allah had provided the place for three or more than three persons in the categories of “SONS”, “WOMEN”, and “SELVES”. But the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) had to decide as to who were the persons who were “TRUTHFUL” and never lied in their life time, because Mubahala would bring Allah’s curse up on the “LIARS”. Hence, he picked-up Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Hussayn (a.s.); only two persons for the place in “SONS”. While in the place of “WOMEN”, he picked-up his daughter, The Lady of Paradise, Bibi Fatima Zahra (s.a.). Similarly, in the place of “SELVES”, he picked up The Conqueror of Khaiber, ImamAli (a.s.).

After the sad demise of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.), at one time, when Bibi Fatima (s.a.) claimed back her gifted property of Fidak, the Caliph did not accept her testimony and that of Imam Ali (a.s.) nor The Hasnain (a.s.). These were the same Panjetan, whose Truthfulness was accepted by Allah on the eve of Mubahala!