FRUITS MENTIONED IN THE NOBLE QUR'AN

Since the arrival of Hazrat Adam and Hazrat Hawwa on the earth, human beings only source of food was plants; fruits and vegetables etc. As the civilization moved forward, man started making different types of food with various ingredients and spices.

With the dawn of industrial revolution in Europe, different types of mechanical and electrical appliances are being used. Now the food is baked, fried or other cooking procedures are used.

If we compare the life expectancy of any average country of the world with the earlier man in human history, we see that because of the modern amenities where bodily movements have been curtailed, ages have become shorter.

It is now imperative to return to the Divine Book of Guidance, which claims that every

“dry and wet subject is mentioned in It”

Cucumber:

“When you demanded that Musa provide you with a variety of food, saying, “We no longer have patience with only one kind of food. Ask your Lord to grow green herbs, cucumbers, wheat, lentils, and onions for us….” (2:61)

It is cooling, purifying and diuretic. Keeps you hydrated, skin care, cancer, blood pressure, teeth and gums and bad breath, digestion, joint health, gout, arthritis, diabetes and cholesterol, stimulates hair growth, diuretic and weight loss.

Figs:

“(I swear) by the fig, by the olive, by Mount Sinai, and by this inviolable city, Makkah.”

(95:1-4)

It removes kidney and urinary bladder stone, release intestinal pain, piles etc.

Consumption of figs in moderation prevents constipation, colon cancer, coronary heart disease, breast cancer, helps control diabetes, hypertension, sexual dysfunction, and strengthens bones.

Olives: Strengthen body muscles, slow down aging, clears the blood, piles, tuberculosis, eczema, baldness, kidneys and pancreas pain, common cold, and stomach and respiratory diseases. It is anti-oxidant, anti cancer, cholesterol, bone and heart health, purifying effects on liver and intestines, supplies energy, strength and nutrition, skin health and vision.

“It is He who has sent water down from the sky to let all kinds of plants grow; the vegetables with accumulated grains; palm trees fro which appear clusters of dates within easy reach; vineyards, olive groves, and pomegranates of all types.” (6:99)

“(With this water) He causes corn, olives, palm- trees, vines (grapes) and all kinds of fruits to grow. In this there is evidence (of the existence of Allah) for the people of understanding” (16:11)

Dates: They are good for: Heart and skin diseases, diarrhea, intestinal and labor pains, piles liver disorders, physical strengthening, and sexual weakness.

“In both gardens there are fruits, palm-trees, and pomegranates.” (55:68)

The word date has been used in Qur’an  20 times.

The major ingredients in dates are: Potassium, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Carbohydrates, and Sugars. Other minerals and vitamins are in trace forms.

Pomegranates:

Benefits of pomegranates include prevention of heart disease such as heart attack or stroke, preventing the spread of prostate cancer reducing cholesterol, and reduce the risk of hardening of blood vessels. It prevents heart disease, helps reduce formation of plaque in the arteries, raises HDL and lowers LDL cholesterol levels. A study done at University of California showed that the antioxidants contained in pomegranates may help fight prostate cancer. It may also help fight lung cancer. Studies by Maryland Medical Centre showed that flavonoids in the juice may prevent osteoarthritis.  

“Or you show us that you have your own garden of palm trees and vines (grapes) with flowing streams therein.” (17:91)

Grapes: Kidney and urinary bladder pain, liver and lung disorders, relax body and brain muscles, common cold and cough, cancer, and stomach diseases.

“As for the people of the right hand, how happy they will be! They will live amid the lotus trees without thorns (Ber).” (56:27-28)

Grapes are helpful in asthma, bone health, heart disease, migraine, constipation, indigestion fatigue, kidney disorder, cholesterol, antibacterial activity, breast cancer, eye health including cataract, immune system.

Bananas and Lote-Trees:

“(As for the people of the right hand) they will amid the lote- trees without thorns( Beri) and banana trees.” (56:27-29)

Average banana has 400 mg of Potassium, and some sugar and Vitamin B6.

Bananas are good for heart, nerves, kidneys and bones, a good source of hemoglobin in blood, mood enhancer and sedative.

Honey:

“The garden which is promised to the pious, is the like in which there are streams of unpolluted water, streams of milk of unchanged taste, and streams of crystal clear honey.” (47:15) “From out of their (bees) bellies comes a drink of different color in which there is a cure for the human being.” (16:69)

Although, honey is not exactly a fruit but it is very essential for good health.

It prevents cancer, heart disease, reduces cough and throat irritation, anti bacterial and good for athletic performance, reduces ulcers and gastrointestinal disorders, allergy protection, slows aging, helps digestive system.

Islam is a religion of “Moderation” in every human activity. Hence, the benefits stated above are just guidelines. It is highly recommended to consult your physician before consuming any of the above-mentioned fruits.

References:

The Noble Qur’an

Health Benefits of Grapes, Dates, Pomegranates, Olives, Figs, Bananas, and Honey

ALLAMA HILLI (R.A.)

    HASAN IBN YUSUF IBN ALI IBN MUTAHHAR AL-HILLI (R.A.)

Allama Hilli was born in 648 AH (1250 AD) in the town of Hilla, Iraq. He started to receive religious education at an early age from his father and uncle in Hilla, which was the center of Shiite doctrines in the days of Abbasid Caliphate. His teachers were: al-Qazwini at the observatory at Maraghah in Azerbaijan, Nasir al-Din Tusi in astrology and philosophy, and Maytham al-Bahrani in fiqh.

He was considered the leading mujtahid in Hilla at the age of 28, after the death of his uncle, Muahaqqeq al- Hilli.

He moved to Persia, Iran in 1305 AD. He was known for his wit and wisdom. He had a solid knowledge of Shiite doctrines. He had contributed to the wide spreading of the teachings and philosophy of AhlulBayt (a.s.). He was able to convert the ruler of Persia into Shi’ism which led to the proclamation of Shiite Islam as state religion.

His masterly handling of different problems became famous especially when the ruler of Persia had divorced his beloved wife three times. The ruler had invited other religious scholars belonging to other school of thoughts and who were determined to sabotage Allama Hilli. In the royal court, Allama Hilli showed eloquence and prudence superior to the rest of the scholars present.

His knowledge and wit at a young Age:    

Once Muhaqqeq Hilli was taking a class and Allama Hilli, who was 6 or 7 years then, was sitting near him. The child played some prank and Muhaqqeq Hilli got up to reprimand him. Allama Hilli ran and the Muhaqqeq pursued him. When he thought that the teacher was about to get him, he suddenly recited an Ayah from Noble Qur’an where prostration is mandatory. Muhaqqeq Hilli immediately fell into prostration. Allama Hilli got a chance to run. He knew that since he was not of the age when prostration is mandatory, he was able to continue running. After the prostration, the teacher again pursued the student! He again recited another Ayah that required prostration. Now the teacher again prostrated and his anger dissipated and he smiled at the cleverness of his student. He went forward and hugged him and said that the child would reach a stage in learning that the people would forget the teacher!

Meeting with Imam-e-Zamana:

As a student in Hilla, Allama Hilli learned that if any one supplicated for 40 nights of Juma’a in Karbala near the grave of Imam Hussayn (a.s.), he would meet the Imam-e-Zamana. When students got vacations, Allama Hilli rode on his mule from Hilla to Karbala and spent 39 nights of Friday supplicating near the grave of Imam Hussayn (a.s.). On the 40^th night while proceeding to the Mausoleum he thought that when he completes the supplication, he would be able to meet the Imam. During his journey, a scholarly question came to his mind. There were many Traditions saying that if someone cried with the thought of hardships faced by Imam Hussayn (a.s.), all his sins would be condoned by Allah. He was not able to understand this Tradition; how only crying could get condonation of sins for a person.

He was riding with this thought in his mind when he came across an Arab riding on a horse. He came near Allama Hilli and started riding side by side and asked him where he was going. Allama Hilli explained and also told the Arab about the question in his mind. The Arab told him about a king who was out hunting, lost his way and reached a small hut in which an old woman lived alone with her sheep. The king was thirsty and the woman served milk from the sheep. Later, the king complained of hunger. The woman slaughtered her only possession and served the king.

While leaving, the king told her who he was and asked her to meet him whenever she visits the capital. The Arab asked Allama Hilli how much the king should serve the woman to compensate for her services she provided to the king in his time of dire need.

Allama Hilli replied that even if the king gave her his entire government it would not be sufficient. The Arab asked again, “Why not ten sheep, fifty sheep or hundred sheep?”

Allama Hilli said that the woman parted with her only possession purely on humanitarian grounds without knowing his status.

The Arab said that the answer to his question lies in that. Imam Hussayn sacrificed every thing he had for the sake of Allah. It would only make sense that in return for his sacrifice, Allah would give everything in his universe for Imam Hussayn.

The Arab told Allama Hilli that the answer to his second question was that the Twelfth Imam was in front of him. Allama Hilli got the blessing of meeting the Imam as return for his supplications for 40 nights. Now, when he turned to look, the Imam had already left.

Books:

Some 500 works are attributed to him. According to some sources, Allama Hilli wrote some 1,000 works (including short treatises and epistles) on Islamic law, jurisprudence, and theology and Qur’anic commentary. Of these about 60 are still available. Yet, only 8 of these are published. They are regarded by “Imami Shiite as the most authentic expositions of their dogma and practice.” He is known to be the first Shiite Imamia scholar to have used the term “Ijtihad”

One of his most famous theological works is “The Eleventh Chapter” (Al-Bab al-Hadi ‘Ashar, which he composed towards the end of his life as a concise summary of Shiite doctrines for the learned lay persons. In the year 1928, William McElwee Miller had translated it in English.

The following books have been translated into Urdu:

(a) Al-fain                                                      on logic

(b) Tehzeeb Aal-e-Muhammad                   on morals

(c) Ahsan ul Aqaid                                        on beliefs

(d) Sharae al-Islam                                       on Jurisprudence

(e) Hidayat ul-Waee                                     on dua

Names of his other famous books are available on line.

Jurisprudence:

Allama Hilli’s role in shaping Shiite Jurisprudence is of great importance. He produced a voluminous legal Corpus. Of this, two of the most important works are “The Disagreement” and “The End”. He also produced a “Summarized Legal Manual”

Allama Hilli died in the year 1325 A.D.

References:

The Shiapedia

Wikipedia

Ziaraat.com

RIZQ OR SUSTENANCE

Human beings are composed of material body and soul. Sustenance for body is in the form of food or drinks while sustenance for the souls is knowledge and true inspirations. The bodies are sustained as long as they are alive while the souls which are sustained by knowledge are for ever.

Allah sustains all His creations by whatever means to keep them alive, He sustains the minds with knowledge, hearts with understanding, the souls with manifestations, and bodies with food and water.

The word “Rizq” may be used for means of income, livelihood, sustenance, money, and wealth etc. for the earning of something good, be in this world or hereafter.

The word “Rizq” have been used in the Noble Qur’an 123 times.

Some of the Allah’s Commandments in the Noble Qur’an are:

“It is the pious who believe in the unseen, attend to prayer, give in charity part of what We have granted them.” (2:3)

“People, eat of the good and lawful things on earth. Do not follow the footsteps of Shaytaan; he is clearly your enemy.” (2:168)

“Allah grants sustenance to any one He wants.” (2:212)

“They will have forgiveness (from their Lord) and (will be granted) honorable provisions.” (8:74)

“There is no creature on earth that does not receive sustenance from Allah.” (11:6)

“(It is such servants of Allah) who in their spending were neither extravagant nor stingy but maintain moderation.” (25:67)

“Seek your sustenance from the bounties of Allah. Worship Him. Give Him thanks. To Him you will return.” (29:17)

“Our provision (for you) will never be exhausted.” (38:54)

“In the heaven there is your sustenance.” (51:22)

 “Allah will make a way (out of difficulty) for one who has fear of Him and will provide him with sustenance in a way that he will not even notice.” (65:3)

Sustenance for Martyrs: “Do not think of those slain for the cause of Allah as dead. They are alive with their Lord and receive sustenance from Him.” (3:169)

Rizq or sustenance is anything of benefit to man, animals or plants because they are all “living things”. The word Rizq has numerous meanings. It may include:

Sustenance from heaven and earth, income, livelihood, money, wealth, food, water.

There are two types of Rizq: one sustains the body and the other sustains the soul.

Examples of Rizq for the soul are; knowledge, faith, true inspiration, piety, sincerity,

intellect, love of Allah and AhlulBayt.

The Holy Prophet Muhammad-e-Mustafa (s.a.w.s.) said: “Should I show a weapon that will deliver you from your enemies and increase in your provisions (Rizq)” the companions said: “Indeed”, he said: “Supplicate your Lord, day and night, for the weapon of a believer is supplication.”

Commander of the Faithful, Gateway of Knowledge, Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “My son, remember that sustenance is of two types; one which you pursue and the other which pursues and trace you out.”

Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “When you are in financial need, rise early in the day, for the sustenance is distributed before sunrise. And Allah, Most High, has blessed this Ummah in its early hours.” “So many believers have the intention of committing sin and Allah deprives them of sustenance.” A pious Muslim believes that whatever Rizq Allah has given him is the Grant from Him and is a trust with him for few days of this world. He feels pleasure in sharing it with His creations, like sun, he showers Allah’s blessings without any hope of return from them. The Imam says: “They transmit the knowledge imparted by us to others who need it.”

A good word of wisdom was given by Ayatullah Shaikh Abdulla Mamkani to his son in his “Wasiyatnamah” which says: “Son, whether you have a son or a daughter, do not inculcate the habit of wearing costly dresses and eating high quality food, because if circumstances are not helpful in future, they will be greatly inconvenienced . If you make them follow “middle path” then they will be happy in whatever they get.”

Similarly, the mother of Muqaddas Ardabili (r.a.) was asked  the cause of high status of his son, she said: “I never ate a doubtful food, used to do wudu before giving milk to the baby, I never looked at a “Na Mahram”, later endeavored in his training, observed cleanliness and purity, and made him sit with good children.”

The “Rizq” referred to in Ayaah (2:168) elaborates that Muslims are permitted to eat and drink every thing the Creator has created except those that are clearly prohibited. And also directs against excesses or “Israaf”

The “Rizq” referred to in Ayah (2:212) is regardless of His creature’s faith!

The “Rizq” referred to in Ayah (8:74) explains the enormous benefits in this world and hereafter. In this world they get gains, high status, success, peace and tranquility.

The “Rizq” referred in Ayah (11:6) is confirming that all living things whether mankind or animals or plants; whether an unborn baby in mother’s womb or creatures in the depths of oceans. Because Allah is All-Knowing, He is aware of all creatures on earth or oceans. But human beings are required to work to receive Halal Sustenance; they cannot sit at home and expect the Rizq.

References:

The Noble Qur'an

Allah: Concept of God                          Yasin T. Jabouri

Al-Amili                                                           Shaikh Mufid (r.a.)

Seeking Allah’s Protection from Satan   Ayatullah Dastaghaib (r.a.)

From Marriage to Parenthood                           Abbas and Shaheen Merali

A Commentary on Prayer                                 Muhsin Qara’ati

HAZRAT LAL SHAH BAAZ QALANDAR (R.A.)

The Sufis in the Middle East and South East Asia treat Commander of the Faithful, Imam-al-Aulia as their leader; they may be Suharwardys, Naqshbandys, Qalandars etc.

Hazrat Lal Shah Baaz Qalandar, was born in 1177 A.D. in Marwand, Iran now in Afghanistan.

His father’s name was Syed Ibrahim Kabiruddin Mujab and his mother was a high ranking princess. He was a direct descendant of Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.).

His father Syed Ibrahim used to talk to the King of Martyrs, Imam Hussayn (a.s.) and would get a reply; hence his title “Mujab” meaning the one who received an answer.

One day, he was foretold by Imam Hussayn (a.s.) in a lucid dream “You are devoted and have looked after our shrine in a very good manner. Get married and we will gift you a falcon (Baaz) which was gifted by Allah to my grandfather, Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) on Me’raj (Ascension)”

Hence Syed Ibrahim got married (some say, at the age of 75). The whole city celebrated the marriage with festivity.

When Lal Shah Baaz was born, there were celebrations for 40 days.

He showed signs of deep spiritual nature at an earlier stage. Even as a youth, he showed signs of occult powers. He had learnt by heart the Noble Qur’an at an early age of seven. He had obtained the basic education from his mother.

Later, he went to Madinah and proceeded to Karbala and looked after the shrine of Imam Hussayn (a.s.)

One day, he saw Imam Hussayn in a dream ordering him to go to Hindustan (India).

He visited the Holy Shrine of Mashad, where Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.) is buried, and then proceeded to different cities of India. Finally, he came to Multan. He preached the teachings of Islam and AhlulBayt (a.s.). Apart from the people, the Raja also converted to Islam.

He went to Ajmer, where Khwaja Moin-ud-Deen Chicshti (r.a.) is buried. Ultimately, he settled in Sehwan, a town in Sind Province. Apart from preaching of Islam, he taught the people about how to mourn for the King of Martyrs, Imam Husayn (a.s.) and the details of the tragedy of Karbala. He also talked about how the so called Muslims turned against the Grand son of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.)

When he arrived in Sehwan, he stayed outside Sehwan. He had two disciples whose names were; Boodla Bahaar and Sachal Sarmast. Hazrat Lal Shah Baaz ordered his two disciples to preach inside the city and stand at every corner and say “Ali Haq” meaning Ali is the ultimate truth.

One day, the king ordered Boodla Bahaar to be arrested. When he was brought in front of the king, he asked Boodla Bahaar to stop saying “Ali Haq”. Boodla Bahaar refused to stop saying “Ali Haq” whereupon, the king ordered that Boodla be killed and his flesh be grounded and thrown away.

It is said that whenever Hazrat Lal Shah Baaz used to call Boodla, he would reply “Aya Sarkar” meaning “I am coming my Lord”. When Hazrat Lal Shah Baaz came to know as to what had happened, he called “Boodla Bahaar” and the voice of “Aya Sarkar” came from every particle of his flesh. All the particles got mysteriously collected together and Boodla Bahaar” was re-built again. He again sent Boodla Bahaar for preaching and met the same fate. After third time, he gave Boodla Bahaar his “Mutahir” which was like a base ball bat, and asked him to hold the stick upside down while looking at the fort, and as soon as he turned the stick, the whole fort was turned upside down (this is clear from the remains of the fort)

Hazrat Lal Shah Baaz was a great poet. One of his famous couplets which are engraved on his shrine is:

            Haideraiam Qalandaram Mastam

            Banda-e-Murtaza Ali Hastam

            Peshwa-e-Tamam Rindhanam

            Keh-Saga-e-Koo-e-Sher-e-Yazdanam

Meaning

I am Haidery (Relating to Haider-one of the names of Imam Ali (a.s.), Qalandar (Free, Free of boundries) and Mast (Intoxicated with inspiration)

I am the slave of Imam Ali Murtaza (a.s.).

I am the leader of all saints.

Because I am the dog of the street of “Allah’s Lion”, referring to Imam Ali (a.s.)

Hazrat Lal Shah Baaz belonged to the “Qalandar” branch of Sufism.

A Qawwali, “Lal Meri Pat Rakhio Bhala” was reported to have been written by famous Amir Khusro, and was subsequently modified by the Saint poet Bulleh Shah. This qawwali was sung by all top ranking singers like Madame Noor Jehan, Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, and Abida Parween etc.   

He was 97 years old at the time of his death.

The shrine around his tomb was built in 1356 A.H., gives a dazzling look with its Sindhi Kashi tiles, mirror work and two gold plated doors – one donated by late Shah of Iran and the other donated by Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan.

Reference:

Qalandaria, Brief history of Hazrat Lal Shah Baaz Qalabdar

WIKIPEDIA

WHO ARE JINN?

Scholars of the natural sciences say that the entities which man can perceive by his senses are marginal in comparison to those that cannot be perceived by them.

Prior to the discovery of microscopic organisms, no one would have believed that in one drop of water or blood, there existed hundreds and thousands of living entities that man could not see.

The scientists also state: Our eyes can see a limited range of colors and our ears can hear a limited range of sound waves; the colors and sounds that cannot be perceived by our eyes and ears are more numerous than those that can be perceived by them.

When the state of the world is such, why should an existence of a species of living entities, which we can not be perceived by our senses, be so astonishing?

The Noble Qur’an has informed us of the existence of Jinn, we should disregard the superstitions of the general public in connection with these beings.

The Noble Qur’an says: “It is an entity that has been created from the flames of fire, unlike man, who has been created from earth.” (55:15)

“Possess knowledge, perception, the faculty of logic, the power of reasoning, and can distinguish between truth and falsehood.” (Various Ayahs of Sura al-Jinn)

“Possess religious obligations and responsibilities.” (Various Ayahs of Sura al-Jinn & Sura al-Wa’qia)

Some of them are believers while others are disbelievers.

“As for us, some of us are righteous and others are not. We have all followed different ways.” (72:11)

They shall be resurrected. “The deviators from the Truth will be the fuel of Hell” (72:15)

They initially possessed the power to penetrate the skies, but were later prohibited.

“We used to sit nearby and try to listen to the heaven, but shooting flames now await those who try to do that.” (72:9)

They used to establish contact with some of the people and, by means of the limited knowledge of the Unseen that they possessed, endeavored to misguide the people.

“Certain human beings sought refuge with certain Jinn and this increased their loss and failures.” (72:6)

Among the Jinn, some of them possessed great powers.

“A monstrous Jinn said; “I can bring it before you (Prophet Suleiman) even stand up. I am powerful and trustworthy.” (27:39)

They possessed the power to perform some of the tasks that are required by man.

“And of the Jinn there were those who worked before him by the Command of his Lord; and whoever turned aside from our Command from among them, We made him taste of the punishment of burning. They made for him what he pleased of the fortress, and images, and bowls (large) as watering troughs and cooking pots that will not move from their place.” (34:12-13)

Their creation on the earth was prior to man’s creation.

“And the Jinn We created before, of intensely hot fire” (15:27)

All Divine Prophets have been chosen from mankind; moreover many Jinn had believed in Prophets of Allah. Man’s superiority over Jinn was perfected when Allah ordered all angels to prostrate Adam and Shaitan (who was a Jinn) refused.

At times the term Jinn is used in more expansive meaning; one that tends to include a number of invisible entities, including animals.

In the book; “Sheikh Abbas Qummi’s Safinat-ul- Bihar volume 1 page 186; the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) says: “Allah has created Jinn in five kinds – some are like the wind in the air, some are in the form of snakes, some in the form of scorpions, some in the form of insects of the earth while some are like the humans and they shall be subjected to Reckoning and punishment.”

This explains some of the Traditions of Imam Ali (a.s.) reported by Abu Jaffer Yaqub al-Kulaini in “al-Kafi volume 6 page 385: “Do not drink water from the broken portion of the vessel nor from the portion of the handle, for surely, the Shaitan sits upon the handle and the broken portion.” The broken portion of the vessel and its handle are the places of accumulation of numerous microbes.

In many narrations relating to A’imma of AhlulBayt, at many occasions, Jinn dressed like Indian gypsies visited them for acquiring knowledge. On one occasion, when Imam Ali (a.s.) was delivering a sermon, a serpent entered the mosque and went straight to the Imam. The Imam made a gesture for him to wait. When the sermon was over, the Imam inquired to which he replied: “I am Amr ibne Uthman, your deputy among the Jinn. My father has died and I was told by him to take further instructions from you.”

The Imam (a.s.) replied: “I ask you to be pious before Allah and go back and act as the successor of your father among the Jinn. I appoint you as my deputy over Jinn.”

The righteous Jinn wept on the Martyrdom of Imam Hussayn (a.s.) as reported by Umme Salemah, one of the wives of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.)

References:

The Noble Qur’an

Al-Kafi                         Abu Jaffer Yaqub al-Kulaini

180 Questions inquiring about Islam      Ayatulla Shaikh Nasir Makaram Shirazi

Commentary of Surat al-Jinn                  Ayatullah Shaikh Nasir Makaram Shirazi

Tafseer-e-Namoona                                 Ayatullah Shaikh Nasir Makaram Shirazi

We cry for Hussayn (a.s.)                        Yasser al-Madani

EVILS OF CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL

Consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited in Islam. As the saying goes, Allah loves His creatures seventy times more than his mother. As Allah is the Creator of this world and He knows the merits and demerits of all creations, hence, in order to save the lives of human beings, He directed us to avoid this fatal drink.

Young men start this sin under peer-pressure but we must remember that every sin is committed presuming it to be a one time affair but as time passes it becomes habitual and difficult to leave. Hence, it is recommended that the reader will realize the gravity of this sin and become determined not to go near it.

Alcohol consumption is one of the Greater Sins.

Allah says in the Divine Revelation, the Noble Qur’an: “(Muhammad), they ask you about wine and gambling. Tell them that there is great sin in them. Although they have benefits for men, the sin therein is far greater that the benefit.” (2:219)

“Believers, wine, gambling……are abominable acts associated with Shaitanic activities. Avoid them so that so that you may have everlasting happiness. Shaitaan wants to induce hostility and hatred among you through wine and gambling and to prevent you from remembering Allah and prayer.” (5:90-91)

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) had cursed ten types of people relating to alcohol:

“One who plants a sapling with the intention of producing it, who crushes the grapes, who drinks it, who serves it, one who transports it, one who receives the delivery, one who buys or sells it, one who uses the income from its sales.” He further said: “Accursed, accursed is the one who sits on a table where alcohol is being served.”

Consumption of alcohol is the mother of all evils.

Disastrous effects of alcohol:

On brain is that it affects the central nervous system and it may cause brain hemorrhage leading to paralysis or prolonged coma and eventual death.

On the limbs are weak and the body becomes absolutely broken down, the senses become impaired, and sleeplessness increases.

On stomach is that the secretion of saliva decreases, insufficient production of digestive juices, and blood in vomiting, swelling of intestines.

On liver is that it slows down its functions, urine becomes yellow.

On blood circulation is that it destroys white blood corpuscles and it may lower blood pressure.

On respiratory system the effects are the worse. It cause breathlessness and as the tissues of the lungs are inflamed its function becomes sluggish. Calcium is continuously depleted. The damaged lungs are susceptible to tuberculosis.

On kidneys is that 90% of the ailments of kidneys are due to alcoholism. Alcohol is expelled through urine and may cause loss of control of bladder.

On heart is that gradually layers of fats are deposited on heart which may increase in size and weight. The heart beat of an alcoholic is faint and irregular.

On mental faculties the majority of the patients in mental hospitals are long term alcoholics. According to the medical research more than 2,00,000 lunatics in France became mad due to alcoholism. Also 80% of all mental patients have been drunkards. 40% of all ailments that afflict the people are due to alcohol. According to the British scientists 90% of lunatics are so due to alcohol. While under the influence of alcohol, a person cannot distinguish between his wife and his mother!

On the off springs according to a West German research the effect of alcohol last for at least future three generations, even if they abstain from intoxicants.

The effects of alcohol are reflected in the character of the drunkard. Usually, he has low character and uses foul language. Being under the influence, he has no hesitation in committing violent acts and breaks every law whether worldly or spiritual.

Statistics about alcohol related deaths:

Millions of people die world wide per year from an alcohol related death.

1,520,622 people have died this year up to August 10, 2013 and the figure is increasing every minute! (www.Alcoholism Statistics.com)

15,000,000 people are currently affected by alcohol abuse or dependency.

(www.Alcoholism Statistics.net)

Reference:

The Noble Qur’an

Greater sins                                        By: Ayatullah Abdul Husayn Dastaghaib

SHAHEED-E-AWWAL, SHAMSUDDIN MUHAMMAD AL-MAKKI AL-AMILI

He was born in 734 A.H. in Jabal ‘Amel, an area of today’s South Lebanon. When he was 16 years of age, he went to al-Hilla in Iraq and became a student of the pupils of Allama Hilli (r.a.). The Shi’ah schools were banned in Jabal ‘Amel. He was certified by Fakhr-ul-Muhaqqeqeen, the son of Allama Hilli (r.a.).

When he was 21 years old, he returned to Jabal ‘Amel and was already certified to narrate Hadees by many other famous scholars of Shi’a and Sunni doctrines of Najaf, Hebron, Makkah, Madinah, Quds, Damascus and Baghdad. He also built good relations with Sultan Ali bin al-Mu’ayyad of Khorasan.

He came from a very distinguished family, and the generations that succeeded him preserved this honor. He had three sons who were all ulemas and jurisprudents, and his wife and daughter were likewise jurisprudents.

He became a Mujtahid at an early age of 35 years. Over 1,000 Mujtahid obtained their permission for Ijtihad from him, which is unique. He also became a Mujtahid of all Sunni fiqh and he was consulted by Shi’ahs and Sunnis alike.

He became very famous and the other scholars became jealous of him. According to a fatwa of a jurisprudent from the Maliki sect, which was endorsed by a jurisprudent from Shafe’i sect, he was imprisoned for one full year.

Apparently, he did not do any Makrooh, Mubah or Haram deed in his life!

While in prison, he wrote the most famous Shi’ah book of the time and still referenced today; The Damascene Glitter (al-Lum’ah) in which he combined all religious practices according to the Shi’ah school of thought. It is reported that he wrote this book in 7 days!

Other books written by him - “The First Martyr or Shaheed-e-Awwal” are:

Durou, Thikra, Bayan, Alfiyeh, and Qawa’d. All these books are still the priceless work on Jurisprudence.

He was martyred on Thursday the ninth of Jumada al-Awwal 786 A.H. He was killed by the sword then crucified and then stoned in Damascus in the days of Sultan Barquq.

One can imagine the pains, sufferings, hardships and unparallel oppression experienced by Shi’ah scholars to preserve and carry forward the teachings of AhlulBayt (a.s.)

CONCEPT OF EID IN ISLAM

The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “Every day in which you do not disobey Allah is a day of Eid.”

From Shi’a point of view, the event of Mubahilah is the most important of all events. This event clearly established truth of Islam as the last Divine Message to humanity.

Eid-e-Mubahilah: In the year 10 A.H., one year before the demise of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) from this world. A Christian deputation of priests from Najran, located in the Southern part of Arabian Peninsula. They came to discuss about Prophet Iesa. They took the plea of his divinity on the grounds of having no father. A Qur’anic Ayah was revealed saying: “Verily, the similitude of Jesus with God is as the similitude of Adam to God; He created him out of dust then said He unto him BE, and he became.” It means Adam did not have a father and a mother! When they did not agree to this line of reasoning then the famous Ayah was revealed: “And unto them who dispute with you therein after knowledge has come unto you, Say! Let us summon our sons, and your sons, and (we summon) our women and (you) your women, and (we summon) our selves (Nafs) and then let us invoke the curse of God on the liars.”  (3:61) Next morning, The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) came out with Imam Hasan and Imam Husayn followed by the Lady of Paradise, Bibi Fatima Zahra (s.a.) fully covered, and The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) at her back. When the priests saw these “Bright Panjetan”, they refused to proceed with Mubahilah. Incidentally, these were the same “Noorani Panjetan” who were under the Cloak of Tatheer which says: “O People of the House, Allah wants to keep away all kinds of uncleanness from you and to purify you thoroughly” (33:33)

Eid-e-Ghadeer: The next important event was the Coronation of Imam Ali (a.s.) at Ghadeer-e-Khum. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.), along with about 100,000 companions was returning from Makkah after performing his last Hajj. Divine messages were being sent to the Messenger of Allah about the Coronation of Imam Ali (a.s.) but the Messenger was reluctant proceed further in that direction. At Ghadeer, a crossroad from where roads are split in different directions and was the last chance of the mammoth congregation of companions to be at one place. A revelation was sent to the Messenger saying: “O Apostle! Deliver what has been sent down to you from your Lord; and if you don’t do it, you have not delivered His Message (at all); and Allah will protect you from people.”

(5:67). Upon receiving this message, the Messenger delivered a long sermon in the scorching heat of the desert enumerating the summary of his Message. At the end, he raised Imam Ali (a.s.) so that every one recognized him thoroughly and said: “For whomever I am his Leader (Mawla), Ali is his Leader (Mawla). O God love those who love him, and be hostile to those who are hostile to him” Immediately after he finished his speech, the last revelation was sent saying: “Today I have perfected your religion and completed my favor upon you, and I was satisfied that Islam be your religion.” (5:3)

Eid-ul-Azha: It is the reminder of the matchless sacrifice offered by Prophet Ibrahim of his son Prophet Isma’il. The story has been narrated in the Noble Qur’an: “Ibrahim said I will go to my Lord who will guide me and he prayed ’Lord, grant me a righteous son’. We gave him the glad news of the birth of a forbearing son. When his son old enough to work with him, he said: “My son, I have had a dream that I must sacrifice you. What do you think of this?” He replied: “Father, fulfill whatever you are commanded to do and you will find me patient, by the Will of Allah.” When they both agreed and Ibrahim laid down his son on the side of his face (for slaughtering). We called to him: “Ibrahim, you have fulfilled what you were commanded to do in your dream. Thus do We reward the righteous ones. It was certainly an open trial. We ransomed his son with a great sacrifice and perpetuated his praise in later generations. Peace be with Ibrahim. (37:99-109)

Prophet Ibrahim sacrificed the dearest possession he had. We, the Muslims, should ponder over this event and see what we can do. At least we can try to sacrifice our bad habits to attain nearness to the Creator!

Eid-ul-Fitr: It is the day when the Muslims thank Allah for having given the will, the strength and endurance to observe fast and obey His commandment during the holy month of Ramazaan. It affords an opportunity to ponder over the strength or weakness of our will power. If we can protect our eyes, ears, mouth, hands, and our feet from disobeying Allah’s Commandments, we should be a true faithful Muslim. It enjoins the well-to-do Muslims to share their assets with the deserving ones even after Ramazaan. Assets include money, time, attention and influence.

 To bid farewell to this month of piety, our Imam, Sayyid-us-Sajideen and Zain-ul-Abideen had provided us with a Supplication. An extract from the Supplication is reproduced below:

            “How much did we long for you yesterday; and how much intense will be

            our eagerness for you tomorrow. Peace be on you and your excellence of

            which we have been deprived, and your blessings which will no longer be

            with us.”

Majority of our “Branches of Islam” or Furoo-e-Deen relate to Allah’s creatures. Allah loves those who love and care for his creations. Hence, with a firm conviction and sincerity, we should examine our behavior to other human beings and strive for improvement.

Birthdays of the Holy Fourteen:

When AhlulBayt (a.s.) are happy, we are happy. Hence Birthdays of Holy Fourteen or

Chaharda Masoomeen (a.s.) are days of Eid for Shia Muslims.

ANGER MANAGEMENT IN ISLAM

Anger is a very powerful emotion that can stem from feelings of frustration, hurt, annoyance, or disappointment. Anger can be helpful or harmful depending upon how it is expressed. Problem occurs if people fail to recognize and understand their anger. Anger is laudable if it is to resist oppression and defend one’s rights.

Suppressed anger can be underlying cause of anxiety and depression. Anger that is not appropriately expressed can disrupt relationships, affect thinking and behavior patterns, and create a variety of physical problems. Long term anger has been linked to health issues such as high blood pressure, heart problems, headaches, skin disorders, and digestive problems. In addition, anger can be linked to problems such as alcohol, substance abuse, crime, emotional and physical abuse, and other violent behavior.

Dr. Dale Carnegie said; “If it becomes clear to us that we deserve punishment, then isn’t it better for us to admit our mistakes.”

In case of the diseases of the body following rules are followed:

1. Identify the disease.
2. Ways of treatment are determined.
3. Dispensing appropriate medications and avoidance of harmful things.

In case of the diseases of the soul, similar procedure is followed. By the way, the diseases of the soul are caused when its powers trespass the bounds of modrations, moving towards the extremes of either deficiency or excess. Anger is a disease of the soul resulting in foolhardiness.

Clinical steps to manage anger:

Deep breathing, self-talk and stopping angry thoughts.

Express anger in appropriate ways.

Talk through your feelings.

Put yourself in other man’s place.

Learn to laugh on yourself.

Develop good listening skills.

Learn to assert yourself.

Professional help.

Most of the decisions which are taken in a state of anger are always followed by regret and remorse. Anger is a flame from the fire of Shaitaan and is his most important tool.

People commit heinous crimes in a state of rage.

The power of anger created by Allah in every man is a Blessing; however, it must be used in proper way. Consequently, we understand that anger is of two types: the unbefitting form of anger and the praiseworthy and obligatory anger. Therefore, when a person must command others to righteous deeds and forbid them from evil (Amre Bill Marouf and Nahi Anil Munkar”, become angry when sins are being committed, leaving that area, is a “praiseworthy and obligatory” act.

The Noble Qur’an says: “Paradise, vast as the heavens and the earth, is prepared for the pious, who spend their property for the cause of Allah in prosperity as well as in adversity, and who also harness their anger and forgive the people.” (3:133-134)

“Give money for the cause of Allah but do not push yourselves into perdition” (2:195)
"(This reward will be for) those who keep away from major sins and indecency, who forgive when they are made angry,......"  (42:37) 

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said: “O ‘Ali! Allah will grant the one who swallows his anger – while he is able to act out his rage – with protection and faith on the Day of Judgment whose pleasure the person will taste. The strong person is not the one who can lift heavy weights. Rather, the strong person is the one who is in control of his soul while in state of anger. Any time you get angry keep quiet. Any time if one of you get angry, he should wash his face with cold water.”

The Commander of the faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “I advise you in regards to anger since the beginning stage of it is insanity and the final stage is remorse. Anger is a fire which is burning away. The one who is able to swallow it is the one who has extinguished it, while the person who permits his anger is to be free is the person who shall be burnt by it. A strong feeing of anger changes the way a person speaks; destroys the pillars of logic and makes a person’s comprehension scattered and disturbed. The staunchest of enemies for a person are his anger and lower desires. The person who is able to take control of these two shall have the greatest rank and shall be able to reach the pinnacles of humanity.”

Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “Anger spoils faith just as vinegar spoils honey. Anger is the key to all evils.”

Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.) said: “The one who controls his anger over people, Allah shall control His anger over that person on the Day of Judgment.”

Islamic ways of managing anger:

Following steps are recommended to manage anger:

1. Change your position or place when you become angry or excited by sitting if you are standing, standing if you are sitting or leaving the place for another open place and breathing as deeply as possible while raising and lowering the hands slowly.
2. Think of the greatness of Allah and His ability to punish criminals and of His Patience and Forgiveness if they repent and do good.
3. If you can drive out your anger from you shout or some tears shed in private, it would be better for you.
4. Look forward to the reward of Allah and think of the good end that Allah has promised the patient ones.
5. Impartially study the problem that has caused you to become angry, and even if the cause is not yours, confess your mistake and turn back to your reason. This will comfort you because sincerity is the way to deliverance.
6. In your study of anger, ask yourself the following questions and reflect deeply on the answers:
1. Is the matter so important that it justifies all this sufferings?
2. Does the problem disappear with anger, anxiety, and pain?
3. Is your personality more important or responding to anger and taking revenge?

Reference:

Noble Qur’an

Ethical Discourses                                   by Ayatullah Shaikh Nasir  Makaram Shirazi

For A Better Future                                 by Abdul Azeem al-Muhtadi al-Bahrani

Jami’ al-Sadat                                          by Muhammad Mahdi al-Naraqi

IMAM ALI (A.S.)'S WILL TO HIS SONS

The Commander of the Faithful, The Gateway of Knowledge, The Most Pious, The Superb Dispenser of Justice, The Lion of Allah, The Orator of the Pulpit of “Salooni” shared his valuable experiences of life in the form of a “Will” which is reproduced as under:

My advice to you is to be conscious of Allah and steadfast in your religion. Do not desire the world, and do not be seduced by it. Do not resent anything you have missed in it. Proclaim the truth; work for the next world. Oppose the oppressor and support the oppressed.

I advise you, all my children, my relatives, and whosoever receives this message, to be conscious of Allah, to remove your differences, and to strengthen your ties. I heard your Grandfather, peace be upon Him, say: “Reconciliation of your differences is more worthy than all prayers and all fasting.”

Fear Allah in all matters concerning orphans. Attend to their nutrition and do not forget their interests in the middle of yours.

Fear Allah in your relations with your neighbors. Your Prophet often recommended them to you, so much so that we thought he would give a share in inheritance.

Remain attached to The Qur’an. No body should surpass you in being intent on it, or more sincere in implementing it.

Fear Allah in relation to your prayers. It is the Pillar of your religion.

Fear Allah in relation to His House; do not abandon it as long as you live. If you should do that, you would abandon your dignity.

Persist in Jihad in the cause of Allah, with your money, your souls, and your tongue.

Maintain communication and exchange of opinion among yourselves. Beware of disunity and enmity. Do not desist from promoting good deeds and cautioning against bad ones.

Should you do that, the worst among you would be your leaders, and you will call upon Allah without response.

O Children of Abdul Muttaleb! Do not shed the blood of Muslims under the banner

: The Imam has been assassinated! Only the assassin should be condemned to death.

If I die of this stab of his, kill him with one similar stroke. Do not mutilate him! I have heard the Prophet, peace be upon Him, say: “Mutilate not even a furious dog.”

Reference: Nahjul Balagha