THE PRAYERS

The word “Sala’t” has been used in the Glorious Qur’an 98 times. Prayer is the first “Branch of Islam” and is obligatory on every adult Muslim. It is performed five times a day.

The Glorious Qur’an starts with these Ayahs: “There is no doubt that this Book is a guide for the pious. It is the pious who believe in the unseen, attend to prayer, and give in charity part of what We have granted them.”Surah Ankabut Ayah 45: “Prayer keeps one away from indecency and sins.”

 Prayer is the connection of man with his Creator; Allah brings about the purity of the soul, cleanliness of the heart, achieves the spirit of piety, trains and makes him wary of sin and disobedience. In order to keep away from sins, one should remember Allah. One who forgets Allah does not think about his actions and to fulfill his desires, never thinks of any limits. Remembrance of Allah keeps us away from sensual desires. Allah is All-Aware; He knows small and big deeds, and also what is in our hearts. Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) said: Remembrance of Allah is a hindrance between the person and the sin.” Surah Taha Ayah 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.”

From the Traditions, it is established that prayer is the most important of all worships. If prayers are acceptable to Allah, He will accept other types of worships other than prayers. When the prayer is rejected, worships other than prayers are also rejected. The Traditions specify that one who prays five daily prayers, is purified from sins just as if one bathes in a river every day and night five times, uncleanness is removed and no impurities remain.

Consequences of deliberately omitting prayers: Intentionally omitting prayer is one of the “Greater Sins”. Surah Maryam Ayah 59: “But there came after them an evil generation, who neglected prayers and followed sensual desires, so they will meet destruction.” The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said: “There is no difference between faith and infidelity except prayer.” He (s.a.w.s.) further said: “A person who neglects prayers and is lazy in its fulfillment is inflicted with 15 calamities by Allah. Of these, 6 are related to this life, 3 are related to the time of death, 3 occur in the grave and 3 calamities strike him in Qiyamah-Day of Judgment.

                Calamities in this life: Almighty Allah reduces his life span, terminates his sustenance, signs of                      righteousness disappear from his face, none of the good deeds are accepted nor rewarded,                          invocations not accepted, and supplications of righteous people will not benefit him.

                Calamities at the time of death: Disgraceful death, die in hunger, unquenchable thirst.

                Punishment in the grave: An angel will squeeze and chastise him; grave will be made narrow,                     darkness.

                Calamities on the Day of Judgment: Drag out of the grave to be witnessed by people, strict                     accounting, Almighty Allah will not look at him with Mercy, will not purify him and given terrible                     punishment.

Because Islam is a complete code of life which encompasses not only individual success and salvation but also collective unity and cohesion, hence more emphases are placed on congregational prayers.  

For the acceptance of the prayers, one should concentrate on it, perform it with humility and fear of Allah considering oneself as an insignificant servant before the Almighty, and understand the meaning of every word one recites.

Our Infallible Imams, while praying used to be completely immersed in the prayer, and became unaware of the surroundings. Once, an arrow was struck in the foot of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s), hence his companions pulled off the arrow from his foot and he did not feel the pain.

Conditions for the acceptance of prayers: In addition to the initial requirements for proper praying, one should seek repentance from his sins and seek forgiveness from Almighty Allah before prayer. Avoid all types of disobedience and sins like back-biting, jealousy, arrogance. All conditions necessary for the peaceful performance of prayers should be implemented. One should wear neat, clean and pure clothes, comb hair, wear perfume and should have the ring of Aqeeq in hand.

The Infallible Imam Zain-al-Abedin (a.s.) said: “The criteria for the acceptance of prayers are the acknowledgment of our Wilayah and dissociating oneself from our enemies.” (Bihar-ul-Anwar volume 84 page 285)

All obligatory prayers should be performed at its earliest time.

In one of the battles, Imam Ali (a.s.) was frequently looking towards the sun. When one of his companions inquired as to why he was looking frequently towards sun, the Imam replied: “I am looking for the time of Zuhr Prayer”. The companion asked: “Are you planning to pray Zuhr?” The Imam (a.s.) replied:”We are fighting for the establishment of prayers!”

Kinds of Obligatory (Wajib) Prayers:

Daily Prayers of five times

Jumah (Friday) Prayer (Wajib Takhyiri in the ghaybah of Imam)

Prayer of Ihtiyat – related to the daily prayers

Prayer for the dead (Salat al-Maiyyat)

Qaza Prayers of the Parents (obligatory on the eldest son)

Prayer of Ijarah. If the eldest son cannot pray for his parents himself, he may ask another person to pray for the dead.

Prayer of Nazar

Prayer of Qasam or oath

Prayer of Ahad (Promise to Gad)

Prayer of Eidayn (Eid-al-Azha, Eid –ul-Fitr) Not obligatory during ghaybah of the Imam

Prayer after wajib tawaf of Ka’bah

Prayer of A’yat (for earthquake, eclipses of sun or moon)

Recommended Prayers: There are many recommended Prayers; some of which are Prayer of: the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.), Imam Ali (a.s.), Lady of Paradise Fatima Zahra (s.a.), Imam of the Time (u.t.f.), Jaffer  Tayyar, Haja’at, Nawafil for five time daily prayers, night prayers (Namaz-e-Shab), for parents salvation etc.

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur’an

Islamic Laws                                                                    by Ayatullah Shaikh Nasir Makarem Shirazi

Survey of Rulings                                                             by Ayatullah Shaikh Nasir Makarem Shirazi

Islamic Studies                                                                 by Allama Saeed Akhter Rizvi

Greater Sins                                                                     by Ayatullah Sayyid Abdul Hussayn DasteGhayb

THE DIVINE TRADITIONS (HADEES-E-QUDSI)

Hadees-e-Qudsi is a pure spring in the land of life, through which we can quench the thirst of our souls, find the right path in the light of Divine Words, and be prosperous under the shade of the unique Gems of Creation!

Hadees –e-Qudsi are the words of Allah, which are quoted by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and immaculate Infallible Imams (a.s.). It is, as to the meaning, from Allah; as to the wording, from the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.s.). Thus the Glorious Qur’an is superior to it, because besides being revealed, it is His own wordings.

“Truly, I forgive the Muslims who have accepted the leadership of the Just Imam appointed by Allah”

                                                                                                                          (Kafi Volume 1, page 376)

“Do not be angry with the people I gave you power over so that I do not be angry with you.”

                                                                                                                          (Kafi Volume 2, page 303)

“Remember Me privately and in happiness so that I remember you whenever you are in a state of heedlessness”                                                                                                                                       (Amali ul-Saduq, page 254)

“And that is between you and Me: You pray and I answer.”

                                                    (Khesal Volume 1, page 244)

“Whoever intends to do a good deed but cannot, shall have it written as one good deed; and if he can do it, it shall be written as ten like it.”

                             (Kafi Vol.  2, page 440)

“O Musa! Do not have long desires because they harden your heart and whoever is hard-hearted is away from Me.”                                                                                                                                   (Kafi Volume 8, page 42)

“O Musa! Cry for the abundance of your sins, like a guilty one fleeing from his enemy.”

                                                                                                          (Kafi Volume 8, page 42)

“O Musa! Do not be neglectful of Me and do not rejoice in the multitude of your riches.”

                                                                                                          (Kafi Volume 8, page 45)

“O Musa! Hasten in repentance and refrain from committing sins.”

                                                                       (Kafi Volume 8, page 46)

“Do not haste whenever stand to prayer before Me.”

                                                (Kafi Volume 8, page 46)

“O Musa! Welcome sinful people who come to you to seek shelter, and tell them they are relieved. Ask for their forgiveness, truly Allah is Great. And be like one of them for themselves.”

                                                                                                                      (Kafi Volume 8, page 48)

“A good deed has tenfold rewards and a sin is destructive.”

                                                         (Kafi Volume 8, page 49)

“O Adam’s descendants! Be My devoted servant so that I make your heart empty of needs.”

                                                                                                                  (Kafi Volume 2, page 83)

BAHLOOL,THE WISE - 2

Wahab ibn Amr, was one of the followers and companions of the Infallible Imam Musa Al-Kazim (a.s.). He was well-educated and financially well-off. There is one report that the despotic Abbassayad king, Harun had appointed him as the Chief Justice, but he did not want to accept it because of his tyranny, but knew the consequences of rejection. He sought advice from the Infallible Imam (a.s.) who advised him to become insane. He complied with the Imam (a.s.)’s directive and was saved from any punishment! Hence he was called “Bahlool”

DEBATE WITH A JURIST: A jurist came from Khorasan (Iran) to see Harun, who accorded him respectable welcome. Incidentally, Bahlool was also present there. The jurist made some ulterior remarks about Bahlool and he also made some counter remarks. At last, the jurist offered to debate with him on the condition that if Bahlool failed to give the answer to his question, he will have to pay one thousand Dinars in gold coins. The jurist asked the following question to Bahlool:

Suppose a woman was sitting in a house with her husband. And a man was busy in prayers and another person was in a state of fasting. During that period another man entered that house, the marriage of the wife and husband became mutually null and void, while the prayer of the one who was praying and fasting of the one who was fasting also became unacceptable. Who was the person who entered the house?

In reply to the above question, Bahlool promptly answered by explaining that the person who entered the house was the previous husband of that woman. He had gone on a journey and did not return for quite some time. The woman was informed that he had died, so after securing the consent of “Hakim-e-Shariah” (the Executer of Islamic Laws), she married again with the man with whom she was sitting. Besides, she had arranged for other two men on behalf of the husband who was reckoned to be dead.

Now, as soon as her first husband, who was alive, entered the house, the first marriage revived and the second marriage became automatically null and void. And that prayer and fasting on his behalf also became unnecessary, since prayer and fast on behalf of one who is alive is not acceptable in Islamic Sharia. Harun and his courtier were much impressed by this logical answer.

 Bahlool then took his turn and posed the following question to the jurist:

Suppose one bowl is full with sugar syrup while another is full with vinegar. If for the purpose of preparing Sikanjabin (a kind of vinegar syrup), we put them in third bowl and we find a small rat in it. How can we determine that rat originally was in the ball of vinegar or that of sugar syrup?

The jurist had no answer to it. Harun noticing his silence, called for the answer from Bahlool. Bahlool answered:

We should first remove the rat from sugar syrup and wash it with water then tear open its body to see what was there in its tummy. If we find vinegar, we conclude the rat had got into the bowl of vinegar. If, however, we find sugar syrup in its tummy, we conclude that the rat was originally in the bowl of syrup.

On hearing this answer to the question, all those present in the court were awe struck with the remarkable intelligence of Bahlool. Finally, the jurist had to part with a thousand Dinar of gold to Bahlool, who distributed it to the poor.

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said: “He whose knowledge is higher is considered more in value than others.”

A QUESTION FROM HARUN: Once, Harun was enjoying the scenery from his palace. Bahlool happened to be there. Haurn told him: “I will ask a question to which if you reply correctly, then I will gift you a thousand Dinars of gold, otherwise I will throw you in the river Tigress.”

Bahlool replied: “I am not in greed of wealth. If I reply correctly, you should agree release a hundred of my friends from your prison. Otherwise you may throw me into the river.

Harun then put forward this question:

Suppose there is a wolf, a sheep and a heap of grass. How could these be transferred from this bank to the other bank of the river so that neither the sheep eats the grass nor the wolf is able to consume the sheep?

Bahlool replied: The sheep should be taken across the opposite bank of the river. Then take the grass heap there, and return the sheep to this side of the river and leaving it here, take the wolf across to that side. Finally returning to this side take the sheep back to that side of the water. In this way, neither the sheep would have an opportunity to eat the heap of neither grass nor the wolf to consume the sheep.

Harun was touched by Bahlool’s intelligence and admired this answer. Bahlool then presented the list of a hundred prisoners, who were the followers and lovers of the Commander of the Faithful, Ali Ibn Abi Talib (a.s.). Breaking his promise, Harun refused to release them. However, finally on persuasion, Harun agreed to release ten of them!

What a profound sense of intelligence as well as a deep concern for the innocent prisoners held by Harun on accusation of professing love of Ali ibn Abi Talib (a.s.) and belief in him as the rightful divinely appointed Caliph!

Bahlool always looked down upon the worldly wealth and never compromised against the principles of righteousness and justice. This fact made him feared by one and all and he proved to be one among the few pious personalities of his time.

 Source:

Bahlool Dana                                                                                                      Scribe

BAB-UL-HAWA'IJ, INFALLIBLE IMAM MUSA AL-KAZIM (A.S.)

Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.) was born at Abwa-between Makkah and Madinah on 7^th Safar 128 A.H. His parents were the Infallible Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) and Hamidah (s.a.). His matchless devotion and worship of Allah had earned him the title of “al-Abdus Salih” (virtuous slave of Allah). Generosity was synonymous with his name which continued even after his Martyrdom. Thus his additional title is “Babul Hawa’ij” (the door to fulfilling needs).

He passed twenty years of his sacred life under the patronage of his sacred father. His inherent genius and gifted virtues combined with the enlightened guidance of Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) reflected in the manifestation of his future personality. Allama Majlisi narrates that once Imam Abu Hanifa came to ask some religious questions from Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.). As he was sleeping, Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.), who was five years old at that time, came out to see Imam Abu Hanifa. After offering him his best compliments, he asked the young Imam (a.s.): “O Son of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.)! What is your opinion about the deeds of a man? Does he do them by himself or does God make him do them?”

The five year old Imam replied at once, in the typical tone of his ancestors, “The deeds of a man are confined to three possibilities. First, that God alone do them while the man is completely helpless. Second, that both God and man equally share the commitment. Third, that man does them alone. If the first assumption is true then it shows the unjustness of God, Who punishes His creatures who did not commit sins with free will. In case of second scenario, God is still unjust because He is equally responsible for the sin. Because God can never be unjust, hence the first two scenarios are out of question. Now we are left with the third scenario in which man is completely responsible for his deeds.

His period of Imamate was 35 years. For the first decade, he discharged his spiritual responsibilities of his sacred office and propagated the Golden Teachings of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.). But thereafter, the kings made his life miserable and being afraid of the people’s love for Ahlul-Bayt placed him in various prisons. He had seen the reigns of Mansur ad-Dawaniqi, al-Mahdi and Harun ar-Rasheed. Mansur and Harun were the despotic kings who put a multitude of innocent descendants of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) to sword.

Ibne Hajar al-Haytami said: “The patience and forbearance of the Imam (a.s.) was such that he was given the title of “al-Kazim” (one who swallows down his anger).” He devoted his nights to the prayer of God and days to fasting. H ealways forgave those who did wrong to him.

The kings of Banu Umaiyyah and Banu Abbas were aware that the Vicegerantship or the leadership of Muslim Ummah rightly belonged to the Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.) and they were the usurpers of their rights. Hence every king tried all possible means to undermine their status, keep them away from the Muslim populace. Consequently, they were subjected to oppression, imprisonment and outright use of military power at the time of Imam Hasan (a.s.).

Harun’s request from the Imam (a.s.): Harun sent his minister, Yahya Barmaki, to the Imam a week before his Martyrdom, this message was in a soft and nice tone: “Send my regards to my cousin and tell him it has been proven to us that you have committed no sin and are blame less. However, I have unfortunately made an oath and cannot break my word. I have made an oath not to free you before you have confessed to sinning and ask me for forgiveness. No one needs to know. It is enough if you confess in the presence of Yahya. I do not want to break my oath. You only need to confess in the presence of Yahya and say ‘I am sorry I have breached and I want the caliph to forgive me.’ I will then set you free.” The Imam (a.s.) replied to Yahya Barmaki: “Tell Harun that there is not much left of my life and that is it!” The Imam (a.s.) was poisoned after a week and was martyred on 25^th Rajab 183 A.H.

Bishr Hafi and the Imam (a.s.): One day, the Imam (a.s.) was passing through the alleys of Baghdad. The sounds of music were exploding from a house. Incidentally, one of the servants came out to empty garbage. The Imam (a.s.) asked the servant: “Does this house belong to a free man or a slave?” The servant replied:” This is the house of Bishr Hafi, one of the authorities and aristocrats, of course he is a free man.” The Imam replied: “Yes, it must belong to free man. If he was enslaved, all these noises would not be coming out of his house.” Bishr asked the servant: “What took you so long?” The servant described the whole conversation. Bishr realized that he must be Imam Musa Ibn Jaffer (a.s.). He asked the servant in which direction the Imam (a.s.) went, and although he was bare-footed, he ran in the direction and threw himself in the lap of the Imam (a.s.) and said: “What did you say?” The Imam replied: “This is what I said.” Bishr said: “Sir, from this very hour I want to be Allah’s slave.”

This news reached Harun. This was why he felt threatened, and said to the Imam: “Basically, your presence (Imam al-Kazim) is sin in my view.”

Safwan Jammal and Harun: Safwan Jammal was an influential businessman dealing in renting the camels. One day, Harun wanted to go on a trip to Makkah, and signed a contract with Safwan for renting the huge fleet of camels. Safwan was also one of the followers and the companions of Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.). When he came to see the Imam (a.s.), he showed his displeasure over the deal. Safwan sold away the business right away. When Harun came to know about it, he summoned Safwan and wanted to know the real reason for the sale. Harun said that he knew that the Imam (a.s.) had influenced his decision. Harun threatened that because of the long relations with Safwan and his family he was leaving him alone, otherwise, he would have killed Safwan.

Sayings of the Imam (a.s.): No charity is superior than to giving a helping hand to the weak.

Never bother to learning something not knowing of which does not do you any harm, and never neglect to learn something whose negligence will increase your ignorance.

Moderation is half of the livelihood.

Amicability is half of the intelligence.

Hastiness is the true clumsiness.

The one whose two days are equal is a loser.

Never be an arrogant, for one who has a small amount of arrogance in his heart will not enter Paradise.

Make piety your ship to sail safely, faith its cargo, trust in Allah its sails, and intellect its sailor, knowledge its guide, and patience its passengers.

Dua reverts what has been destined and what has not been destined.

A man asked about “conviction”, the Imam replied: “The conviction is to depend upon Allah, submit to Him, consent to His acts, and entrust Him with the affairs.

Sources used:

A Survey into the lives of The Infallible Imams                                    by Ayatullah Murtadha Mutahhari

Brief History of the Fourteen Infallibles                                               by Al-Islam.org

Living Right Way                                                                                by Ayatullah Jawad Tehrani

Sayings of Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.)                                                by Ali Moula.com

INFALLIBLE IMAM ALI ZAIN-AL-ABEDIN (A.S.)'S SUPPLICATION FOR CHILDREN

Infallible Imams, the Progeny of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) were free of any shortcomings. All supplications put forth by them were for the Muslims showing them as to how to pray for different needs and problems of life.

He had showed us to pray on 54 topics in the Zuboor-e-Ale Muhammad, Sahifa-Sajjadia or also called Sahifa-e-Kamila. One of his supplications is “the prayer of Children for their Parents”. And another one is “the Parent’s supplication for children” which is reproduced below:

O Allah! Be kind to me through the survival of my children, setting them right for me, and allowing me to enjoy them.

O Allah! Make long their lives for me, increase their terms, bring up the smallest for me, strengthen the weakest for me, rectify for me their bodies, their religious dedication, and their moral traits, make them well in their souls, their limbs, and everything that concerns me of their affairs, and pour out for me and upon my hand their provisions.

Make them pious, fearing, insightful, hearing and obedient toward You, loving and well-disposed toward Your friends, and stubbornly resistant and full of hate for all Your enemies! Amen

O Allah! Through them strengthened my arms , straighten my burdened back,  multiply my number, adorn my presence, keep alive my mention, suffice me when I am away, help me in my needs, and make them loving toward me, affectionate, approaching, upright, obedient, never disobedient, disrespectful, opposed or offender!

Help me in their upbringing, their education, and my devotion toward them, give me among them from yourself male children, make that a good for me, and make them a help for me in that which I ask from You .

Give me and my progeny refuge from the Accursed Shaitan, for You have created us, commanded us, and prohibited us, and made us desire the reward of what You have commanded, and fear its punishment! You assigned to us an enemy who schemes against us, gave him an authority over us in a way that You did not give authority over him, allowed him to dwell in our hearts and let him run in our blood vessels; he is not heedless, though we be heedless, he does not forget, though we forget, he makes us feel secure from Your punishment and fills us with fear toward other than You.

If we are about to commit an indecency, he gives us courage to do so, and if we are about to perform a righteous deed, he holds us back from it. He opposes us through passions, and sets up for us doubts. If he promises us, he lies, and if he raises our hopes, he fails to fulfill them. If You do not turn his trickery away from us, he will misguide us, and if You do not protect us from his corruption, he will cause us to slip.

O Allah! So defeat his authority over us through Your authority, such that You hold him back from us through the frequency of our supplication to You and we leave his trickery and rise up among those preserved by You from sin.

O Allah! Grant me my every request, accomplish for me my needs, withhold not from me Your response when You have made Yourself accountable for it to me, do not stop my supplication from you, when You have commanded me to make it, and be kind to me through everything that will set me right in this world and the next, in everything that I remember or forget, display or conceal, make public or kept secret!

In all of this, place me through my asking You through You  among those who set things right, those who are answered favorably when they request from you and from whom is not withheld when they put their trust in You, those accustomed to seek refuge in You, those who profit from commerce with You, those granted sanctuary through Your Might, those who are given lawful provision from You by Your boundless bounties, through Your Munificence and Generosity, those who reach exaltation after abasement through You, those granted sanctuary from wrong through Your Justice, those released from affliction through Your Mercy, those delivered from need after poverty through Your Riches, those preserved from sins, slips, and offences through reverential  fear toward You, those successful in goodness, right conduct and propriety through obeying You, those walled off from sins through Your Power, the refrainers from every act of disobedience toward You, the dwellers in Your neighborhood!

O Allah! Give me all of that through Your bestowal of success and Your Mercy, grant us refuge from chastisement of the burning, and give to all the Muslims, male and female, and to all the faithful, male and female, the like of what I have asked for myself and my children, in the immediate of this world, and the deferred of the next!

Verily, You are the Near, the Responder, the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing, the Pardoner, the Forgiving, the Clement, the Merciful!

And give to us in this world good, and in the next world good, and protect us from the chastisement of Fire!

SAYYIDAH ZAYNAB (S.A.) BINTE IMAM ALI (A.S.)

Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.), the third child of the Pure and Infallible Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) and the Lady of Paradise, Sayyidah Fatima Zahra (s.a.); the sister of the Princes of Paradise, Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Hussayn (a.s.).

Her title was Siddiqah-e-Sughra. Her kuniyat was Ummul Masa’ib. Like her brothers, her name was given by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.). Zaynab means “The Adornment of Her Father”.

She was born on 5^th Jamadi-al-Awwal, 5 A.H. in Madinah. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was not in Madinah at that time. On his return, as usual, he went straight to Sayyidah Fatima Zahra’s house and he was given the news of her birth. While he was holding Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) in his lap, Archangel Jibra’eel descended and conveyed the name for the newborn and then he began to cry. On inquiry from the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.), he replied: “O Prophet of Allah! From early on in life this girl will be entangled in trials and tribulations in this world. First she will cry over your separation from her; thereafter she will bemoan the loss of her mother, then her father, then her brother Hasan. After all this, she will be confronted with the trials of the land of Karbala as a result of which her hair will turn gray and her back will be bent.”

After the sad demise of her mother when she was only seven years old, she took care of her father’s household and also looked after her brothers and sister. From young age, she was generous to the poor and orphans.

In her character, she represented the best attributes of those who raised her. In sobriety and sincerity, she was likened to Ummul Momineen Khadija (s.a.), her grandmother; in chastity and modesty to her mother Sayyidah Fatima Zahra (s.a.), in eloquence to her father Imam Ali (a.s.). Her face reflected the awe of her father and her grandfather’s reverence.

After the sad demise of her grandfather, there came the period of distress and hardship. When her mother gave the sermon of Fadak, she was only four years old, but narrated the sermon so lucidly and expressly that the people from Bani Hashim remembered it by heart. She is called Zaynab, the narrator of traditions.

Marriage:  She was married in a simple ceremony to her first cousin Hazrat Abdullah ibn Jaffer Tayyar. Hazrat Jaffer was martyred in the battle, and when Hazrat Abdullah, a young boy was brought to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.), he prayed for his sustenance. He was raised by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and after his death by Imam Ali (a.s.).He grew up into a handsome youth with pleasing manners and was known for his sincere hospitality and selfless generosity to the poor and needy. Imam Ali (a.s.) told Hazrat Abdullah not to prevent Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) from going on a journey with her brother Imam Hussayn (a.s.).

Although her husband was a man of means, yet she lived a modest life, not a life of luxury. The marriage did not diminish her strong attachment to her family. Together this young couple had five children, of whom four were sons; Ali, Aun, Muhammad, and Abbas, and one daughter Umme Kulsoom.

In Madinah, Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) held meetings of women in which she shared her knowledge and taught them the precepts of Islam as laid down in the Glorious Qur’an. Her gatherings were well and regularly attended. She was able to impart the teachings with such clarity and eloquence that she was known as Fasiha (skillfully fluent) and Baligha (intensely eloquent).

In the year 37 A.H., when Imam Ali (a.s.) became the formal Caliph, he moved the capital to Kufa, Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) and her husband also moved to Kufa.  Her reputation as an inspiring teacher had preceded her. There to women would throng to her daily sittings where they all were benefitted from her erudition, wisdom, and scholarship in the exegesis of the Glorious Qur’an. The depth and certainty of her knowledge earned her the name given to her by her nephew, the Infallible Imam Zain-al-Abedin (a.s.), of Alimah Ghayr Mu’allamah, ‘she who has knowledge without being taught.’

Fateful Journey to Karbala: After Imam Ali (a.s.) was martyred by the most evil creature in the world, Imam Hasan (a.s.) succeeded his father. But the crafty Muawiah trapped him by his usual treacherous weapons of money and sword and eventually he managed to poison the “Prince of Paradise” by his wife. Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) witnessed the pieces of her brother’s liver as a result of the poison. In complete contravention of the covenants of peace treaty with Imam Hasan (a.s.), Muawia appointed Yazid as his heir- apparent and expedited efforts to obtain allegiance from influential leaders. When Muwiya died, Yazid ordered the governor of Madinah to either obtain Imam Hussayn (a.s.)’s allegiance or kill him! Imam Hussayn (a.s.) left for Makkah along with his sister Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) and other members of Bani Hashim and his companions. From Makkah the Imam (a.s.) proceeded to Karbala, where this band of the Saviours of Islam, were mercilessly butchered by the hypocrites, not leaving even the Imam (a.s.)’s infant of 6 months. After the massacre, the so-called Muslims desecrated the women, looted and set on fire the camps. Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) took charge of the situation, saved Imam Sajjad (a.s.), consoled and protected the women and children. This “Caravan of Truth” was paraded from Kufa to Damascus with the Daughters of the Prophet without head-cover, their hands were fastened with ropes. The Bani Umayyiyads wanted to disgrace and damage the morally. But the Iron Lady of Karbala delivered bold and daring speeches full of eloquence and uncovered the hypocritetic faces of Yazid and his forfathers. Ultimately, Yazid offered to release the Family of the Prophet of Islam!

Foundation of Majils-e-Aza: When Yazid offered the release and asked for anything he could do, Imam Sajjad (a.s.) asked Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) who said that they could not mourn the Martyrs of Karbala. Hence a house was placed at their disposal and Sayyida Zaynab organized the first Majlis-e-Aza for her brother Imam Hussayn (a.s.) and other martyrs of Karbala. She would describe in detail the events of Karbala and the Shahadat of every martyr. After every majlis, men would offer their condolences to Imam Sajjad (a.s.) and women would condole to Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.). These majalises made quite a stir in the cities, and sounds of crying and beating chests and heads affected the minds of the inhabitants and made them sadder and wiser to the events of Karbala.

This tradition which lived in the minds and hearts of millions of Muslims, has kept the sacrifices of Imam Hussayn (a.s.) alive, and brought dynamism to every movement that aimed at removing injustice in the world.

She was martyred by yet another hypocrite in the year 62 A.H. and was buried in Damascus, Syria.

Please refer to my articles:

                                                                Imam Ali (a.s.)’s daughter Zaynab (s.a.)

                                                                Bibi Zaynab (s.a.)’s Journey of Courage

  

Sources used:

The Victory of Truth                                                                                              Muna Haeri Bilgrami

A Probe into the History of Ashura                                                                         Dr. Ibrahim Ayati

WIKIPEDIA & Ziraat.org

MIRACLES OF MAZHAR-UL-AJA'IB, IMAM ALI (A.S.) - 2

Jinn in the form of a python: According to a narration by the Infallible Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.): “Once, Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) was delivering a sermon when a huge python entered the mosque. People out of fear wanted to kill him; the Imam (a.s.) stopped them. The python went straight to the Imam (a.s.) but the Imam (a.s.) signaled him to wait till he completes the sermon. After the sermon, the Imam (a.s.) asked him as to who he was.

The python replied in his language that he was Umro bin Usman, Jinn. His father was dead, and before his death he directed the python to see the Imam (a.s.) and solicit his advice. The Imam (a.s.) said: “I appoint you as the successor of your father; hence you go back to your community and take charge of your new assignment. I exhort you to be pious.” The narrator inquired from the Imam (a.s.): “Does that python come to you? And also is it obligatory to do so?” The Imam (a.s.) replied: “Yes” (Al-Kafi, v2p 396, Basa’irul Darajat p 97 hadis 7, Isba’tul Huda v.2 p 404 hadis10)

Water for wuzu from Paradise: The famous Sunni scholar Mufiq bin Ahmad Khawarazami had recorded in his book “Manaqib-e-Amir al Momineen” through Anas bin Malik, who said: “The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) once led the Asr prayer and in the first rakat, performed a very long ruku (bowing) and completed the prayer. After the prayer he looked around and inquired about Imam Ali (a.s.), who was sitting in the last row. Imam Ali (a.s.) went near the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.), who asked the Imam as to why he was late and not praying in the first row. The Imam replied: “I had to renew my ablution and I went to my house but found nobody there. A voice directed me towards a golden water pot. I extended my hand to pick it up when strangely the water from the pot started to flow on my hands. I renewed my ablution and momentarily everything was gone.”  Hearing this, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) smiled and kissed the Imam (a.s.) between his eyebrows and embraced him (a.s.) and said: “O’Abul Hasan! Why should not I share this good news with you that the golden water-pot was from the Paradise? Jibra’il and Mecha’il helped you in ablution. By Allah, until you rejoined the prayer, Isra’feel was holding back my knees preventing me to proceed to prostration. In spite of your this superiority, people blame for your love, while the angels in the skies and the Lord loves you.”  (Manaqib-e-Khawarazami  p. 216, Bihar-ul-Anwar volume 39 ref. Al-Tara’if v. 39 p. 116)

Plucking of the Mammoth gate of Khyber:  Abu Abdullah Jadali narrates in Shaikh Mufeed’s “Al-Irshad” when he reports that Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “When I plucked the gate of Khyber, I converted it as my shield and fought with the Jews. When Allah dishonored them, then I put it on the trench.” One of the Muslims asked him: “O Ali! You must have felt the weight of that huge gate?” The Imam (a.s.) replied: “I felt as if I am holding a shield which I normally carry.”

After the war was over, people wanted to lift the Gate but could not. Only when seventy strong men tried to lift it only then they succeeded. Ibne Shaher Ashoob writes in “Manaqib” that the length of the Gate was 18 hands while the width of the trench was 20 hands. When Imam Ali (a.s.) placed the gate on the trench, the other end of the gate could not reach the other bank of the trench. Hence, Imam Ali (a.s.) entered the trench and held the other end of the gate and asked the Muslim army to cross over it. One of the reports says that there were 8,700 Muslim army men who crossed it. (Allama Mufeed’s Irshad p. 67, Bihar-ul-Anwar v. 21, p. 4, hadees 11)

Hadees of Carpet and conversation with the “Men of Cave”:  Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) narrated: “Once, The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was sitting in the Mosque when the topic of the “Men of Cave” and their lives came for discussion. My grandfather (s.a.w.s.) inquired as to who wants to speak to them? Hazrat Abu baker, Hazrat Umar, Hazrat Usman, and Hazrat Salman showed interest. The Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said: “Darhan bin Malik, come out.” A young man in smart attire wearing pleasing scent appeared.” The Prophet said: “Bring to us the Carpet of Sulaiman”. Momentarily, he brought a white haired Carpet measuring 40 Zara’, placed it in the Mosque and disappeared. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) ordered Bilal and Sauban to spread it and ordered everyone to sit at each corner and asked Imam Ali to sit in the middle. When everyone took their seats, Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “Come on Mansha” and the Carpet started to rise and flew towards the Cave. When it landed at the mouth of the Cave, Imam Ali said to Hazrat Abubakar: “You are the sheikh of Quraish, go and offer your salam to them.” He asked Imam Ali as to how to address them and the Imam showed him the way and he addressed the Men of Cave but there was no reply. Imam Ali then asked Hazrat Umar and Hazrat Usman to address them but there was no reply for them also. Lastly, Imam Ali asked Hazrat Salman to address them. When Hazrat Salman addressed them, there was a voice from inside the cave saying: “You have been tested for faith by Allah, you are on the right path and your end will be better, but we have been prevented from replying to anyone except the Messengers and their vicegerents.” At the end, Imam Ali said to them: “O Selected people on Allah’s earth! Greetings to you, O’ the people! Who are in compliance with the covenant of Allah.” There were many voices emerging out of the Cave saying: “Greetings to you, O Commander of the Faithful. By God! The one who loves you has become successful, and one who hates you is at a loss.” Imam Ali asked them as to why they did not reply to his companions? They replied: “O Commander of Faithful! We are alive but have been prevented from replying to anyone except the Messengers of Allah and their vicegerents.” Everyone returned to Madinah and informed the Noble Prophet (a.s.w.s.) about it.  (Uyoon-ul-Mo’jezat page 14, Bihar-ul-Anwar volume 39, page136)

Source used:

Mo’jezat-e-Ale Muhammad                                                                by Allama Sayyid Hashim al-Bahrani

HAZRAT FATIMA BINT ASAD (S.A.), THE MOTHER OF IMAM ALI (A.S.)

Hazrat Fatima Bint Asad was the daughter of Hazrat Asad ibn Hashim (a.s.). She believed in the Unity of Allah, all previous Sacred Books like Zuboor, Taurait, and Injeel; she followed the religion of Prophet Ibrahim (a.s.). On the dawn of Islam, she was the first woman, after Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.), to formally and openly declare Islamic faith. She was married to Hazrat AbuTalib (a.s.), who was also following the religion of Prophet Ibrahim. From the time of Hazrat Adam to the last Prophet (s.a.w.s.), every prophet preached and practiced Islam. According to the need of the time and the level of human intellect, Allah sent various scriptures and books. At the end, the Glorious Qur’an was revealed to the last Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) which is the final Divine revelation till the Day of Judgment.

She had the privilege of raising the Five Sacred Souls; the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.), Imam Ali (a.s.), Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), Imam Hasan (a.s.), and Imam Hussain (a.s.). As the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) lost her mother at an early age, hence she provided and replaced the motherly love to him. She took a special care of him and preferred him to her own children. She and her husband Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) would shift young Muhammad from his bed to other places for his safety and let their other sons sleep at his place. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) had lauded her motherly care, which stretched to 20 years. The Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) continued that sacrificial intention of his parents and slept in the Prophet’s bed on the night of Hijrah.

Imam Ali (a.s.)’s birth:  On Friday, the 13^th day of the Sacred month of Rajab, 12 years before the ordainment of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.), as Allah’s Messenger, she went to Holy Ka’abah and while she was circumambulating, she felt the pains of delivery. She prayed to Allah: “O Allah! I believe in You, and in the Messengers and Scripts You have sent. I believe in what my grandfather, Ibrahim who built the Ancient House (Ka’abah). So, for the sake of the Builder of this House, and for the sake of the child in my womb, who talks to me and who is my helper and friend, I implore You to make my labor easy. The child I am carrying is a sign of Your Greatness and Power.” (Al-Arbili, Kashf Al-Ghummah, volume 1 chapter on Imam Ali)

Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) leaned against the wall of Ka’abah to rest. Miraculously, the wall opened. Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) entered and the wall closed behind her. Abbas ibn Abdul Mutallib, the Prophet’s uncle witnessed this miracle. He and his companions rushed to the gate of the Sacred House, which was locked, and tried in vain to open it. Understanding that the Divine was at work there, he and his companions ceased to interfere. The news of this miracle spread throughout Makkah.

Imam Ali (a.s.) was born within the Ka’abah with his eyes closed and his body in humble prostration before the Almighty Allah. Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) stayed in Ka’abah for three days and as the fourth day approached, she stepped out carrying her baby in her arms. She found the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) waiting to receive the new-born child in his anxious arms. So the first face that little Ali (a.s.) saw in this world was the smiling face of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.).

No one has ever born or will ever be born inside the Sacred House of Allah. This unique distinction was reserved for Imam Ali (a.s.). Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) had said about this special privilege Allah had granted to her and said: “Allah preferred me to all women before me. Assiyah (wife of the Pharaoh) performed the acts of worship in seclusion where Allah did not like to be worshiped except in case of necessity. Mary (s.a.), the daughter of Imran, shook the trunk of the Pam- tree and ripe dates fell upon her. I entered the House of Allah and ate fruits of Paradise, when I was about to leave the place, I heard the Divine call: O Fatima! Name your son Ali because he is high and his Lord Most High. I gave him a name derived from My Own Name. I cultured him the way I willed. I made known to him the intricacies of My Own Omniscience. He is the one to crush the idols in My House. He is the one to call the people to prayer from the roof of My House. He worships Me. Blessed are those who love him, and woe to those who are his enemies.”

We know that Mary (s.a.) lived in the Masjid-al-Aqsa (within the House of Allah), but was not allowed to deliver her child inside the House of Allah.

Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.)’s death:

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was much grieved on hearing the sad demise of Hazrat Fatima bint Asad (s.a.) on 23^rd Safar. He immediately proceeded to the house of Hazrat AbuTalib and sat besides the dead body, prayed for her. According to the Commander of the Faithful: “When my mother died, the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) wrapped her body in a shirt of his own and said prayer upon her and said: “Allah is the Greatest “-seventy times. The Prophet (s.a.w.s.) then went into the grave, touched the walls as if he wanted to widen the grave. When he came out of the grave, the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) wept bitterly and addressed the grave to be kind to her body.”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said: “May Allah bless your noble soul. You were to me like my own mother. You fed me while you yourself went hungry. Your aim in doing so was to please Allah by your deeds. O Allah! Life and death is in your hands. You alone will never die. Bless my mother Fatima bint Asad, and give her a mansion in Heaven. You are the most Merciful. My dear mother, may Allah keep you under His Protection.

She was buried in the Jannat-al-Baqi, Madinah.

Sources used:

Al-Muntazar.com

WIKIPEDIA

Duas.org

ImamReza.net 

IMAM ALI (A.S.), THE WALI ALLAH

                                                           

Wali is the root word for Wila, Walayah, Wilayah, and Mawla. The word Wali has been used in various forms in the Glorious Qur’an; 124 times as a noun and 112 times as a verb. Usually it means nearness, special or spiritual affinity, intimacy, friendship, being in charge, being in control. In all these cases, there exists a kind of personal contact. Its derivatives carry many meanings; e.g. the word Mawla carries 27 meanings.

There are two kinds of “Wila”; positive and negative.

Negative Wila: Friendship with non-Muslims falls into this category.

Positive Wila with a general meaning:  Allah wants Muslims to be a strong society superior to others. Faith is the foundation of friendship, love and fraternity wila of the believers. Surah al-Tawbah Ayah 71 which reads: “And the believers, the men and the women, are friends (wali) one to the other; they bid to good and forbid evil…”

Positive Wila with a special meaning: It is the Wila of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). There is a complete unanimity among the scholars of our Sunni brothers and the Shi'ahs that the following Ayah 23 Surah al-Shura: “I do not ask you for any reward for my preaching except the love of my near relatives.” It is also present in the uncontested Tradition of Ghadeer, when the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said: “For whomsoever I am his Mawla, Ali is his Mawla”. Also in Surah al-Ma’idah Ayah 55 which says: “Only Allah is your Wali and His Messenger, and those who believe, those who keep up prayers and pay the poor-rate while they bow.” The great Sunni scholars az-Zamahshari and Fakher-uddin-Razi said: “This Ayah was revealed concerning Ali (a.s.)”

Benefits of love of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.): In the above Ayah, Allah is directing to His Messenger to tell the Muslims to love the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is infallible and according to Ayah 3-4 of Surah al-Najm: “Wa Ma Yentiqa Anil Hawa In Howa Illah Wahian Yuha.”Meaning the Messenger does not speak by his own like or dislike but only according to the revelation. Hence the benefits of love for his Ahlul Bayt are for ourselves.

One of the four schools of our brothers Sunni Muslims; Imam Shafi’I says: “If love of the Household of Muhammad is heresy (Rafz), then Jinn and Men are witness that I am a heretic (Rafzi). O’Household of the Prophet of Allah, love for you is an obligation from Allah revealed in the Qur’an. It suffices as the best of honor bestowed on you that his prayer is as nothing who does not include in it praises for you.”

Fakhruddin Razi quote az-Zamahshari that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s) said: “Whosoever died in the love of the Household of Muhammad has died a Martyr; whosoever died in the love of Muhammad has died in forgiveness, a believer and in perfection of his faith.” (Tafsir al-Kabir of Razi, volume 27 page 166)

Wila – Imamate or leadership: It is the position of authority in faith, that is a position which others should follow, should take as an example for their actions and behavior. Such position demands that the person should be Infallible. Surah al-Ahzab Ayah 21: “Certainly you have in the Messenger of Allah, an excellent example for him who have hope in Allah and the Day of Judgment and who remembers Allah very often.” Surah al-Imran Ayah 31: “(Muhammad), tell them, “If you love Allah, follow me. Allah will love you and forgive your sins.” This Ayah is a clear proof of his immunity from sins and errors. This position was given by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s) to his AhlulBayt after him, when he declared in the famous Tradition: “I leave among you two precious things: The Book of Allah and my AhlulBayt. These two will not be separated until they encounter me at the Pool of Kausar. Do not run ahead of them, for you will be ruined; do not neglect them or you will be ruined. And do not seek to instruct them, for they are wiser than you.

Wila-Political Leadership: This position requires that the parson takes the reins of a government, directs social affairs and destinations of the people and is the ruler (Ulil Amr). The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was such a leader granted by the Omnipotent Allah according to the Ayah 59 of Surah al-Nisa: “Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority among you.”, Ayah 55 of Surah al-Ma’idah: “Only Allah, His Messenger, and the true believers who are steadfast in prayer and pay alms, while they bow down during prayer, are your Guardians.”, and Ayah 6 of al-Ahzab : “The Prophet has more authority over the believers than themselves.”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) demonstrated his leadership in action and speech supported by the Divine Commandment; Ayah 7 of Surah al-Hashr: “Whatever the Messenger gives you, accept it, and from whatever he forbids you, keep back.”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.s.) also held the Judicial Wila; in other words, his judgment was binding in legal differences and internal disputes. The following Ayah supports this Wila; Ayah 65 of Surah al-Nisa: “I swear by your Lord that they will not be considered believers until they let you judge their disputes, and then they will find nothing in their souls to prevent them from accepting your judgment, thus submitting themselves to the will of Allah.”

Spiritual Wila: It is an extra-ordinary creative ability and mastery. It is the hidden faculties in this creature and the amazing accomplishments he possesses. It is the relationship of this creature to Allah. The purpose of spiritual Wila is that man, as a result of travelling on the path of submission, achieves the station of Divine Nearness, becomes the leader of the caravan of spirituality, the commander of the hearts, the testifier of actions and the Proof of the Age.

The earth is never void of a Wali or a Perfect Man (Insan-e-Kamil)

The Commander of Faithful, the Conqueror of Khyber, the Lion of Allah, the Nafs-e- Rasool (in Mubahelah), the Father of the Princes of Paradise, the husband of the Lady of Paradise, the soul who was born in Allah’s House (Ka’bah), the one who was martyred in the House of Allah (Masjid-e-Kufa), the Mawla of Ghadeer-e-Khumm, Purified (Ayah of Purity), Ali ibn Abi Talib (a.s.) is the one who justifies all the above situations.

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur’an

Wilayah                                                                                Shaheed Ayatullah Murtaza Mutahhari (r.a.)