HAZRAT MUHAMMAD IBN ABI BAKR (R.A.)

Hazrat Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr was the son of the first caliph. His mother was Hazrat Asma bint Umais (s.a.). After the death of the first caliph, she married the Commander of the Faithful; Imam Ali (a.s.) and the Imam adopted Hazrat Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr and treated him like his own son. He was born in Madinah in 10 A.H. After being raised in the Purified shadow of the Imamate, he became one of the staunchest supporters of Imam Ali (a.s.). It requires a huge moral courage to see the truth and stand up against any one even his own sister, Hazrat A’isha, the Mother of Muslimeen, in the Battle of Camel (Jamal).

He had a son named Qasim, who had a daughter whose name was Umme Farwa. She was married to the Infallible Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.). Hence she became the mother of the Infallible Imam Jaffar al-Sadiq (a.s.)

During the Battle of Camel (Jamal), Imam Ali (a.s.) appointed him as the commander of the infantry. He was a brave man and hence fought bravely. When the Imam ordered the feet of the camel on which Hazrat A’isha was leading the war, the Imam told him to go near the camel and protect his sister when the seat falls. After the end of hostilities, Imam Ali (a.s.) respectfully sent her back to Madinah under the protection of Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr and forty respectable women disguised as men. At every occasion, Imam Ali (a.s.) demonstrated the highest degree of humanity, respect for Allah’s creation as a Divinely appointed leader should perform.

Hazrat Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr had written a letter to Muawiya about his behavior towards Imam Ali (a.s.). It is a long letter which exhibits the flair of Imam Ali (a.s.)’ eloquence. Some of the extracts are reproduced below:

                “I saw how you tried to reach his lofty status, though you are what you are, while he is                the one who stood out above the rest as the foremost in doing of anything good and in                  embracing Islam. His conviction was most sincere, his offspring the best among all                        people, his wife the best of all women, whose cousin (the Prophet) was the very best,                   whose uncle was the Master of Martyrs on the day of Uhad, whose father defended the               Messenger of Allah and his mission, while you are the accursed and the son of the                         accursed. You and your  father  have never ceased plotting to undermine the religion of               Allah, trying, both of you, to put out the light of Allah, rallying others behind you,                        spending wealth and seeking the support of other tribes. Woe unto you!  How dare you               set yourself as an equal to Ali while he is the heir of the Messenger of Allah, his wasi,                  the first among the people to follow him, the very closest to him. He shares secrets with               him,  while you are his enemy and the son of his enemy!”

Imam Ali (a.s.) appointed him as the governor of Egypt and sent instructions of governance. Extracts are given below:

                “Treat them (Egyptians) with respect. Be kind and considerate with them. Meet them                cheerfully. Be fair, just, and impartial in your dealings so that even influential persons               may not dare take undue advantage of your  leniency and the commoners and the poor               may not be disappointed in your justice and fair dealings. O’Creature of Allah!                             Remember that the Almighty Lord is going to take an account of each one of your sins,               major or minor  and whether committed openly or secretly. If He punishes you for                       your sins, it will not be an act of tyranny and if He forgives you it will be because of                     his Great Mercy and Forgiveness.”

Muawiya wanted to wrestle away Egypt from Imam Ali (a.s.); hence he sent Amro bin al-Aas with 6,000 people to face Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr. On receiving this information, Imam Ali (a.s.) sent Hazrat Malik al-Ashtar. When he reached Areesh, Muawiya conspired with a landlord to poison him in exchange for his taxes for 20 years will be free. Hence, Malik was martyred before reaching Egypt. Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr fought bravely but was martyred. On instructions from Muawiya, his body was sewed in the Caracas of a donkey and burnt. One can imagine what type of so called Muslims were they! Hazrat A’isha continued to curse Muawiya and Amro Aas for the rest of her life.    

Imam Ali (a.s.) wrote to Abdullah ibn Abbas, Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr’s uncle: “Muhammad died as a martyr. I beseech the reward of Allah for the sorrow I feel and the grief I suffer on account of the martyrdom of this young man who was like a son to me. He loved me. He was faithful to me. For Islam, he was a sharp sword and an impregnable fort.

Sources used:

Sharah Nahjul-Balagha                                                                                  By: Ibne Abul Hadid

Alhassnain.com

WIKIPEDIA

MOTHER OF THE FAITHFUL, HAZRAT UMME SALAMA (S.A.)

Her name was Hind and because she had a son named Salama hence she was called Umme Salama. She was the daughter of Abu Umayyah ibn al-Mughira al-Makhzumi and Atika bint Aamir. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) had married her after the demise of Hazrat Khadija (s.a.). She had distinguish and worthy qualities. She was among the first believers who accepted Islam and who had double migrations; one to Abyssinia and other to Madinah. The Qur’anic Ayah of Purity (33:33) in honor of the “Panjetan” was revealed at her house! She was famous for her kindness, affection and loyalty. The scholars had called her the great, the learned, and the visionary lady who had helped her husband solve the problems of Muslims. Her first husband was her cousin Abu Salamah with whom she had four children; Salama, Omro, Zainab, and Darrah. Her husband was martyred in the Battle of Uhad. Because she possessed qualities of beauty and perfect morals, hence many well-known personalities offered to marry her, but she married the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) for a little dowry. She was able to find an imminent place in his (s.a.w.a.s.)’s heart after the demise of the First Mother of the Faithful, Sayyidah Khadija (s.a.).

She was a pious and learned woman even during the period of Jahiliya (Ignorance) possessing eloquence and rhetoric. She was devoted to her husband and was ready to do anything to remove grief and sorrow from his heart. Therefore, she accompanied him to many battles.

Once, she told the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.): “O Messenger of Allah! Men struggle and participate in the battles, but women don’t, and they cannot be martyred. It is a great blessing that we are losing.”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) explained to her the other substitute for women and said: “The woman’s struggle is in her relations to her husband.”

Ayah 32 of Surah al-Nisa was revealed: “And don’t covet that by which Allah have made some of you excel others; men shall have the benefit of what they earn and women shall have the benefit of what they earn; and ask Allah of His Grace; surely Allah knows all things.” Also Surah al-Ahzab Ayah 35 was revealed.

After conversion to Islam, she struggled to attain eminent morals with the passing of each day and added to her knowledge and faith in the company of her sacred husband. She made continuous efforts to obtain his satisfaction; hence she molded her likes and dislikes to that of her husband. She used to be ready to listen to the Divine Commandments from her husband and she would leave any work she was doing. Hence she had narrated 378 or 518 Traditions from the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). Because of her sincerity, the AhlulBayt trusted her with the custody of “sacred documents”. One day the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) asked Imam Ali (a.s.) to write a document on the leather and secretly gave it to her with the instruction that after him someone will come to retrieve it from her after showing some signs. After 24 years of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)’s demise no one claimed it except Imam Ali (a.s.)

Imam Ali (a.s.) and Sayyidah Fatima Zahra (s.a.)’ wedding was arranged in her chambers. As a grandmother, she took care of their children with love and respect.

Post Prophetic period:

After the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)’s demise, she was staying with Sayyidah Zahra (s.a.) and witnessed every event. She believed in the Imamate of Imam Ali (a.s.). She also went with Sayydah Zahra as a witness to claim the gift of Fidak given to her by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). At the Battle of Camel she sent her son Omro to Imam Ali to represent her and fight his opponents. Later, Imam Ali (a.s.) appointed him as the governor of Bahrain. Imam Ali (a.s.) called Omro back to help him to face Muawiya in the Battle of Siffin. Imam Ali (a.s.) gave the” sacred trusts of Imamate” to Hazrat Umme Salama before proceeding to Kufa. She wrote a strongly worded letter to Muawiya against cursing Imam Ali (a.s.) from the mosques saying as if he was cursing Allah and the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)!

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) had informed her about the tragedy of Karbala and the martyrdom of his beloved grandson, Imam Hussayn (a.s.), in advance. He entrusted her with a glass containing the soil of Karbala and said: “Whenever you see that the soil in the glass changes to blood know that my grandson, Hussayn, has been martyred.”

On the 10^th of Muharram, 61 A.H., she had a dream and saw that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) filled with sorrow wearing  dusty clothes and said: “I am coming from Karbala and my grandson Hussayn has been martyred” She woke up from the dream and saw the soil had turned to blood” She knew that Imam Hussayn has been martyred. She started mourning and crying.

Finally, this distinguished and great lady, at the age of 84, passed away in the year 62 A.H. and buried in Jannat-ul-Baqi.

Sources used:

HAZRAT UMME SALMA                                                                 By: Sayyid Irtiza Abbas Naqvi

Ezsoftech.com

HAZRAT FATIMAH MASOOMAH QUM (S.A.)

Hazrat Fatimah was the eldest of the four daughters of the Infallible Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.) and sister of the Infallible Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.). She was 25 years younger to Infallible Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.). She was born on the first of Zilqaad 173 A.H. in Madinah al-Munawwarah. Her most famous title was “Masoomah”, which was given to her by her brother Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.), because she was a very pious lady.

Sayyidah Fatimah was only ten years old when her father, the Infallible Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.) was martyred in the prison of Baghdad. Now she had only brother Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.) to look up to, this major grief made her very weak but she carried the strength to be alive only for the sake of her brother Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.).Born in the family that was the fountainhead of knowledge, piety, and moral values, she was a pious lady. From the age of 10, she was educated and trained by the Infallible Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.) till the age of 27 years. She had narrated many Traditions of her grandfather, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). Among the ladies of the Infallible Household (a.s.) there are two who enjoy a wide-ranging right of intercession. These two eminent ladies are pure and truthful ones: Sayyidah Fatimah Zahra (s.a.), the daughter of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and Sayyidah Fatimah Masoomah (s.a.), the daughter of the Infallible Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.)

After the martyrdom of the Infallible Imam Musa al-Kazim, Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.) was charged with the responsibilities of Imamate. Mamoon Rashid did not allow Imam Reza to lead a peaceful life and he called the Imam to Iran. The Imam had to leave his whole family in Madinah and proceed to Iran.

For almost one year Sayyidah Fatima put up with the separation from her beloved brother, she could not stand any longer and decided to go to Iran to meet Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.). She took five of her brothers, nephews and few servants. Together they went through many difficulties on the way. When they reached Sava, certain enemies of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) attacked the caravan and martyred 23 persons including her brothers and nephews. After this tragedy, Sayyidah Fatima fell very ill and became very weak.

When the news of this tragedy reached Qum, one of the pious and devout Shia leaders, Moosa ibn Khazraj immediately sent his men to bring respectfully Sayyida Masoomah to Qum. As soon as her caravan reached the city, she observed that everyone was wearing black dresses and black flags were flying everywhere. When she asked Moosa ibn Khazraj the reason for this mourning, he started crying first then offered his condolence for the martyrdom of her beloved brother. She was so deeply hurt by this grief that after arriving in Qum she was alive only for 17 days. The women of Qum performed the ghsul and kafan. At that time two veil-covered horsemen came and one of them entered the grave and the other lowered the body in the grave. After the funeral prayers were conducted, the two mysterious horse men disappeared. It is reported that they were Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.) and Imam Muhammad Taqi (a.s.).

There are certain features common to both Sayyidah Fatimah Masoomah and Sayyidah Zaynab Kubra (s.a.). Both of them are daughters of Infallible Imams (a.s.), sisters of Infallible Imams, and paternal aunts of Infallible Imams (a.s.). Another of their shared features is that they were both intensely attached to their respective brothers. Both of them were born in Madinah but were buried in alien lands.

Every year her holy shrine is visited by millions of Muslims from all over the world. The value of making pilgrimage to the shrine of Masooma Qum is observed by the words of the Infallible Imams as follows:

Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.): “Whoever performs the ziarat of Masoomah Qum will be rewarded by a place in Heaven”

Imam Jaffar al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “If you want to earn a place in Heaven, and then perform the ziarat of Masoomah Qum”

Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.) said: “Whoever attends the ziarat of my sister is like he has performed my ziarat and indeed, he/she will be rewarded a place in Paradise.”

Sources used:

The Benevolent Lady of the Prophet’s Houshold

Sayings of Hazraat Masoomen (Haidryonline) 

PROTECTION FROM THE ENEMY - SHAITAN

We all know that if we can identify our enemy then we try to protect ourselves. But Shaitan is a sworn enemy of human beings who is not visible to our eyes, he can see us we cannot see him, he has easy access to our hearts, we are helpless.

This is ancient enmity which goes back to the first creation of Hazrat Adam. When Allah ordered every angel to prostrate (show respect) the newly created Adam, every one complied except Shaitan, a Jinn, who showed pride and refused to obey based on his concept of superiority of fire over soil. He did not say that after prostrating Allah for thousands of years how he could prostrate Adam made of soil. He relied on his evil intelligence thinking that he was created from fire, which he thought, was superior to Adam who was created from soil. As a result of disobedience, Allah accursed him and threw him out. But he asked for the compensation for his long prayers in the form of control over the mankind to seduce and misguide them. Allah granted him that request. So we know that he is our enemy number one from day one. We cannot protect ourselves from him without Allah’s help. Hence, the concept of “Istighfar”-seeking Allah’s protection from Shaitan, arises.

Does the mere recitation of “Istighfar” sufficient? No. We need to make sure that it comes from the bottom of our hearts. So, “Istighfar” consists of two parts; we need to sincerely seek protection from the accursed Shaitan, and submit to Allah for His help.

The spirit of “Istighfar” has five aspects:

Taqwa or Piety

Tazakkur or Remembrance of Allah

Tawakkul or Trust in Allah

Ikhlas or Sincerity

Aajizi or Humility towards Allah

Surah al-A’raf Ayah 201 refers: “Verily those who guard (themselves against evil) when an evil thought from Shaitan afflicts them, they become mindful (of God and get awakened) then lo! They are forthright.” When the men of piety have fear from Shaitan, they busy themselves in prayers and they instantaneously get enlightened.

Therefore, the very first condition for keeping safe from Shaitan is to become pious. They also realize that Shaitan had fled because of their prayer and that they are in the protection of Allah. Piety covers a large area of our lives which also includes abstention from Haram or forbidden acts, Haram food, and Haram sustenance. One morsel of Haram food is sufficient to pollute the whole body, as the Shaitan’s blood flows in the body. Suarh al-Baqarah Ayah 168: “O Men! Eat the lawful and good things out of what is in the earth, and do not follow the foot-steps of Shaitan; surely he is your open enemy.”

As for the Trust in Allah, Surah al-Nahl Ayahs 98 and 99: “So when you recite the Glorious Qur’an, seek refuge with Allah from Accursed Shaitan, Surely he has no authority over those who believe and rely on their Lord.”  One who has Trust in Allah; Shaitan has no control over him. Shaitan has control over those who do not have Trust in Allah and all their confidence is on the material and worldly concepts of their life. When a person does not Trust Allah, all his pleadings for protection is of no use, Shaitan will have control over him. It is expressed in Surah al-Nahl Ayah 100: “Verily, his authority is only over those who befriend him and those who associate others with Him (Allah).”

Another aspect of “Istighfar” is sincerity. At the time of his expulsion, Shaitan admitted that he will not be able to misguide “the sincere” servants of Allah. Surah Sad Ayah 82 and 83: “He said ‘By Your Glory, I shall seduce all of them (children of Adam) except Your sincere servants among them” At the supreme level of such sincere servants are the Purified and the Infallible Imams of the AhlulBayt (a.s.), but any one may struggle to climb the stairs of sincerity!

Source used:

The Glorious Qur’an

“Istiaza”                                     Shaheed-e-Mehrab Ayatullah Sayyid Abdul Husayn Dasteghaib (r.a.)

MARTYR AYATULLAH MURTAZA MUTAHHARI (R.A.)

Martyr Murtaza Mutahhari was born on 31^st January 1919 at Fariman, in Iran. He was educated by his father, Muhammad Hussayn Mutahhari, and also at an exceptionally early age of twelve, he started the formal religious education in Mashhad.

But in Mashhad, he discovered his great love for philosophy, theology, and mysticism. This love shaped his entire personality.  He attended the Howzah at Qum from 1944 to 1952.He studied Fiqh and Usul under Ayatullah Hujjat Kuhkamary, Ayatullah Sayyid Muhammad Dama’ad, Ayatullah Sayyid Muhammad Reza Gulpaegani, and Haji Sayyid Sader-ad-Din Sadr. But more important than all these was Ayatullah Brujerdi, who succeeded Ayatullah Ha’iri as the director teaching establishment in Qum.

Ayatullah Ruhullah Khomayni was a young lecturer teaching Ethics at Qum. Ayatullah Khomayni was already established himself by the profoundness and comprehensiveness of his Islamic vision and his ability to convey it to others. His other teacher who had influenced Mutahhari’s personality was Ayatullah Muhammad Hussayn Tabataba’i who taught him materialist philosophy and “Shifa” of Abu Ali Sina’a. He viewed the attainment of knowledge and understanding as the prime goal and benefit of religion. Mutahhari adhered to the philosophy of Mullah Sadra, “the sublime philosophy” that seeks to combine the methods of spiritual insights with those of philosophical deductions.

 He returned to Tehran and was invited to lectures on Philosophy at the Tehran University for 22 years. His promotion was hampered by his closeness to Ayatullah Khomayni. He came to this University as an articulate and convinced exponent of Islamic sciences and wisdom, almost as an envoy of the religious institution to the secularly educated.

In addition to building his reputation as a popular and effective University lecturer, he participated in numerous Islamic associations that had come into being under the supervision of Mahdi Bazargan and Ayatullah Taleqani. Mutahhari’s wishes for a wider diffusion of religious knowledge in the society, led him in 1960 to assume the leadership of Tehran Ulema known as the Monthly Religious Society.  For about 8 years he gave lectures at Husseinia Ershad., which was designed to gain the support of the secularly educated youth.

As he felt the need of accurate and systematic understanding of Islam and the consequent problems in the society, Mutahhari single-handedly wrote many books such as Adle Ilahi (Divine Justice), Nizam-e-Huquq-e-Zan dar Islam (The system of Women’s Rights in Islam), Mas’alay Hijab (The Question of the Veil), Ashna’e ba Ulum-e-Islami (An Introduction to the Islamic Sciences), and Muqadama bar Jahanbani-e-Islami (An Introduction to the Worldview of Islam).

While in Qum, he had sought to instill political consciousness in his contemporaries, and was particularly close among them who were members of the Fidayan-e-Islam, the militant organization founded in 1945 by Nawaab Safavi. When the Islamic Revolution reached triumphant climax in 1978 when Ayatullah Khomayni left Najaf for Paris, Mutahhari was among those who travelled to Paris to meet/consult with him. Ayatullah Khomayni appointed Mutahhari as a member of the Council of Islamic Revolution in 1979.

He was martyred by an opponent’s bullets on May 1, 1979. When he was buried in Qum, Ayatullah Khomayni wept openly and described Mutahhari as “his dear son and as a part of my flesh”

He had written many books on different topics. His emphasis was more on teaching rather than writing. After his Martyrdom, his students collected some his lectures and printed them as books. He had authored more than 60 books. Out of love and respect, he had dedicated to his father one of his most popular books; Dastan-e-Rastan (The Epic of the Righteous). The book was later chosen as the book of the year by the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO in 1965.

In the words of the President of the Republic, Ayatullah Khamna’i, “The works of Mutahhari have come to constitute the intellectual infrastructure of the Islamic Republic.”

Sources used:

Islamic Insights

Imamreza.net

Islamic Laws

The Life of Mutaza Mutahhari

WIKIPEDIA

HAZRAT D'ATA GANJBKAHSH (R.A.)

Hazrat Sayyid Hafiz Haji Abul Hasan Ali bin Usman bin Ali Al-Jalabi Al-Hajwiri was also known as “Data’ Ganj Bakhsh”, was a great Persian Sufi scholar, writer and poet, who lived during the 5^th century A.H. He had significantly contributed to the spread of Islam in South Asia. Hazrat Ali Hajweri was born both a Hussayni and Hasani Sayyid! He was blessed with the direct lineage to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) through his father who was a direct descendant of Hazrat Imam Hasan (a.s.) as explained below:

Hazrat Ali Hajweri, son of Hazrat Muhammad Usman, son of Hazrat Abul Hasan Ali, son of, Hazrat Abdul Rahman, son of Hazrat Shah Shuja, son of Hazrat Abul Hasan Ali, son of Hazrat Hasan Asghar, son of Hazrat Zaid, son of Hazrat Imam Hasan (a.s.), son of Hazrat Ali (a.s.). His mother was a descendant of the King of Martyrs, Imam Hussayn (a.s.). She was greatly devoted to religious worship and was committed to the betterment of welfare of the poor and suffering.

After the tragedy of Karbala, many of the descendants of Imam Ali (a.s.), dispersed to foreign lands, and the forefathers of Hazrat Ali Hajweri moved to the Ghaznavid Empire-modern day Afghanistan.

He was born in Ghazni during the reign of Mahmud Ghaznavi between 400 to 406 A.H.

After acquiring basic education, he travelled to different parts of the Middle East in search of a spiritual leader (Murshid) and was accepted by Shaikh Abul Fazl Muhammad. His other associates/teachers were:

Abul Abbas Ahmad, Abul Qasim bin Ali, Abu Ahmad  Muzaffar, and Abul Qasim Abdul Karim.

Arrival in Lahore:

One night, he saw his spiritual leader in dream saying to him: “O’ My son! We have appointed you as Qutb for Lahore.” After reaching Lahore, he constructed a monastery for himself and a mosque. While the mosque was still under construction, the Ulemas of the city raised huge storm of opposition to the effect that the mosque was not aligned exactly towards Qibla. Upon completion of the mosque, he invited all the Ulemas, Sufis, Saints, and the leading citizens and they offered prayers behind him.  He asked the people to close their eyes, meditate and then decide whether it is correct or not. Thereafter, he meditated and curtains were removed from the eyes of the people. All of them saw that the Sacred Ka’ba was before their eyes.

Khawaja Moin-ud-Din Chishti (r.a.) at his Mausoleum:

Hazrat Khawaja Moin-ud-Din Chishti (r.a.), the great saint of Ajmer, India came to Lahore to meditate for 40 days at the altar of Hazrat Ali Hajwiri (r.a.), and after achieving spiritual enlightenment, Khawaja Moin-ud-Din Chishti (r.a.) expressed his gratitude and out of love and devotion uttered the following couplet in Persian:

                                          Ganj Bakhsh-e faiz-e Alam, mazhar-e Nur-e Khuda

                                            Naqisaan ra Pir-e Kaamil, Kaamilan ra Rahnuma

      The giver of bounties, the benefactor of the world (and) the manifestation of the light of God

                            To the imperfect, a perfect spiritual guide, and to the perfect, a guide

This couplet had been written on the head plate of his grave.

Kashf-al-Mahjoob or Revelation of the Veiled:

This is one of the most famous books of Hazrat Data GanjBakhsh. It was written in Persian and has been translated in many languages including Urdu and English. The book is about Sufism starting with a chapter on “Ilm” or knowledge! There are other six books. Kashf al-Mahjoob was translated in English by Reynolds A. Nicholson Litt. D., lecturer in Persian in the University of Cambridge in the year 1911 A.D. There are 25 chapters of the book. Some of the chapters are about the Imams pertaining to the companions, to the House of Prophet, the followers (Ta’biun) etc. There are 11 chapters each for “one Veil”. The “Eleven Veils” are: “Gnosis (Marefat) of God, Unification (Tauheed), Faith, Purification from Foulness, Prayer (Salaat), Alms (Zakaat), Fasting (Saum), Pilgrimage (Hajj), Companionship, Definition of terms, and Audition (Sama’).

There are about 112 sayings of Hazrat Data GanjBakhsh on “Sufiwiki.com”. Some of them are: “Faith and gnosis are love, and obedience is a sign of love. Although hunger is an affliction of the body, it illuminates the heart, purifies the soul, and leads the spirit into the presence of God! Hunger sharpens the intelligence and improves the mind and health. Religion is the root and Sufism is the branch. Eternal life is gained by spiritual sacrifice and by the renunciation of self-interest in fulfilling God’s Commandments. The friends of God behold in every gift and benefit the Giver and the Benefactor. Men are looking to the Ka’aba, but the God is ever looking to the heart! Knowledge is a Divine attribute and action is a human attribute. Human nature is more prone to ignorance than to knowledge. Lust is our shackle, and sins are our chain. Our religion takes the middle course between free will and predestination.

Sources: WIKIPEDIA, SUFI-WIKI.COM, QALANDERIA.BLOGSPOT.COM

IMAMAT ACCORDING TO THE GLORIOUS QUR'AN

According to the Ahlul Bayt News Agency, Dr. Majdi Wahba  Al-Shafi’i, of Al-Azhar University, had established from the Ayahs of the Glorious Qur’an that the number of Imams is twelve and they are Infallible and the Shiite Islam is correct and authentic. This article was published in an Egyptian magazine “Roz al-Yusuf”. 

There is a philosophy in the number of the words; the word “Yom” (Day) has been used in the Glorious Qur’an 365 times meaning the number of days in a year are 365. Similarly, the word “Shhar” (Month) has been used in the Glorious Qur’an 12 times meaning there are 12 months in a year. On the same lines the word “Imam”, either singular or plural, has been used 12 times in the Glorious Qur’an meaning there are 12 Imams in Islam. According to a Tradition of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.): “The number of Imams are 12, the first three are Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.), Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (a.s.), and the King of Martyrs, Imam Hussayn (a.s.) and the balance 9 Imams are from his lineage.

The word “Imam” has been used in the Glorious Qur’an in the following Ayahs:

1.       Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 124; “…..I am appointing you as the Leader (Imam) of mankind…..”

2.       Surah al-Taubah Ayah 12: “Fight against the Leaders (Imams) of the unbelievers……”

3.       Surah al-Hud Ayah 17: “…..a witness who is an imam and a blessing recites it…….”

4.       Surah al-Isra’ Ayah 71: “On the day when we call every nation with their Leader (Imam)….”

5.       Surah al-Anbiya Ayah 73: “We appointed them as Leaders (Imams) to guide the people…..”

6.       Surah al-Qisas Ayah 5: “…suppressed ones in the land by appointing them Leaders (Imams)...”

7.       Surah al-Hijr Ayah 79: “Both people had clear (divine) authority (Imam) among them.”

8.       Surah al-Sajdah Ayah 24: “We appointed some of the Israelites as Leaders (Imams)….”

9.       Surah Ya’seen Ayah 12: “And everything have We confined into a Manifesting Imam.”

10.   Surah al-Qasas Ayah 41: “We made them the kinds of Leaders (Imams) who would invite…..”

11.   Surah al-Furqan Ayah 74: “Our Lord, make our spouses….and appoint an Imam of pious ones.”

12.   Surah al-Ahqaf Ayah 12: “Before this the book of Moses was a Guide (Imam) and a blessing...”

Doctor Majdi had also mentioned the “Hadees-e-Kissa” which is also narrated in different books of the “Saha-Sitta” (The Six True Books”) of our Muslim brothers. The word Kissa or covering has been used in the Glorious Qur’an 5 times which number coincides with the “Five Pure Personalities” (Panjetan Pak).

1.       Surah al-baqarah Ayah 233: “….on the father’s hall be their sustenance and their clothing….”

2.       Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 259: “….how We clothe them with flesh…..”

3.       Surah al-Ma’idah Ayah 89: “…typical of that which you feed to your own people, to clothe them…”

4.       Surah al-Muminoon Ayah 14: “The bones, then, were covered with flesh….”

5.       Surah al-Nisa Ayah 5: “Feed and clothe such people and speak to them in reasonable way”

Doctor Majdi says that from the above Ayahs the number of Imams is confirmed as Twelve and the number of Masoomeen is confirmed Fourteen in which the Lady of Paradise, Fatima Zahra (s.a.) and the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) are included.

HAZRAT HUZAYFAH IBN AL-YAMANI (R.A.)

Hazrat Huzayfah was a loyal, trustworthy companion of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), and Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.). He was one of the seven persons who participated in the funeral of Lady of Paradise, Hazrat Fatima Zahra (s.a.) He participated in all military adventures with the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) except the Battle of Badr. During the Battle of Uhad, he participated with his father al-Yaman. As al-Yaman and Thabit ibn Waqsh were old men, hence the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) did not allow them to take part in the battle and they were left behind. As the fighting intensified, they both decided to join the fight. Thabit ibn Waqsh was killed by the Polytheists. The Muslim did not recognize al-Yaman and attacked him. Huzayfa cried out: “My father! My father!” No one heard him and he was killed in error. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) wanted to pay compensation to Huzayfah for his father’s death but he said: “He was simply seeking shahadah and he attained it. O’Lord! Be witness that I donate the compensation for him to the Muslims.”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) was impressed by three qualities of Huzayfah; his unique intelligence, quick wittedness, and his ability to keep a secret even under persistent questioning. A primary problem was faced in Madinah were the hypocrites who had superficially accepted Islam while simultaneously plotting against the Muslims. Because of Huzayfa’s ability to keep a secret, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) told him the names of the hypocrites, a trust not bestowed upon others. Huzayfah was commissioned to watch their movements and follow their activities. After the sad demise of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), the second caliph indirectly found out who the hypocrites were by watching Huzayfah if he did not attend the funeral, and then the caliph did not recite funeral prayer for the deceased.

Battle of the Ditch:

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) sent Huzayfah into the enemy lines to bring information about their situation and morale. He prayed for Huzayfah: “O Lord! Protect him from front, from behind, from his right side, from his left side, from above and from below.” Huzayfah was already in the enemy camp. It was dark and cold night. Abu Sufyan warned his men to check who is sitting next to you. Huzayfah himself asked the stranger next to him to put him on the defensive. At one stage Abu Sufyan was very close to Huzayfah who could have easily killed him but he remembered the Prophet’s advice not to make any move before he returns to the Muslim camp.

Huzayfah’s Philosophy:

Huzayfah al-Yamani felt the sources of good in life were easily recognizable for those who desire virtues but evil was deceptive and often difficult to perceive. He warned people to struggle against evil with their heart, hands, and tongue. Those who stood against evil with their hearts and tongues and not hands, he considered as having abandoned a part of truth. Those who hated evils only in their hearts but did not combat it with their tongues and hands, forsook two parts of the truth and those who neither detested nor confronted evil with their hearts, tongues and hands, he considered them as physically alive but morally dead.

Victory in the Battle of Nihawand:

The second caliph made him the second in command of the army of thirty thousand Muslims sent to face the Persian forces who were five times stronger. The first commander, Nauman ibn Maqran fell early in the battle, and Huzayfah immediately took charge and instructing that the commander’s death should not be broadcast. Under Huzayfah’s leadership, the Muslims won a decisive victory. Huzayfah also took part in the multi-pronged advance into Armenia, leading a column to Al-Lan Mountains.

Later, when Imam Ali (a.s.) appointed him the governor of Kufa and Mada’in, the crowd went to meet the famous companion of whose great role had already become a legend. As they waited, a lean man approached on a donkey eating a loaf of bread. Huzayfah realized that they were waiting for him to speak and he eventually said: “Beware of the places of fitnah and intrigue; the doors of rulers where some people go and try to make the ruler or governor believe lies and praise him for qualities he does not possess.”

He died just before the Battle of Jamal (Camel) in 36 A.H. and was laid to rest at Mada’ain.

In the year 1932, Huzayfah came in the dream of the King Faisal of Iraq and requested that the graves of Jabir ibn Abdullah Ansari (r.a.) and himself were being flooded, hence remove their bodies to safer place. Please read details in the article “Hazrat Jabir ibn Abdullah Ansari (r.a.)”

Sources used:

WIKIPEDIA, ZIARAAT.COM, EZSOFTECH/MIRACLE OF ISLAM

HIS EMINENCE GRAND AYATULLAH SAYYID ALI AL-HUSAYNI AL-SISTANI

Grand Ayatullah Sayyid Ali al-Husayni al-Sistani was born on 9^th Rabi al-Awwal 1349 A.H. in the Holy City of Mashhad. Eid al-Zahra falls on 9^th of Rabi al-Awwal! He was brought up in a family known for its religious back ground. At the age of 5, His Eminence started learning the Glorious Qur’an. In the beginning of 1360 A.H, he started learning basic Hawzah lessons. In late 1368 A.H., he migrated to Qum to accomplish his studies of Fiqh and Usul. He was benefitted by two well known scholars, Sayyid Husayn Tabatabai and Grand Kuhkamari. In early 1371 A.H., His Eminence left for Najaf al-Ashraf and started attending Ayatullah Khu’i and Shaikh Husayn Hilli’s lectures in Jurisprudence and Fundamentals of Jurisprudence for a considerably long time. Meanwhile, he attended the lectures of other prominent scholars like Ayatullah Hakim and Ayatullah Shahryudi (May Allah Bless them). In 138 A.H., Ayatullah Sistani travelled back to Mashad. During the same year, he was awarded a permit by Imam al-Khu’i and Shaikh Hilli certifying that he has attained the level of Ijtehad-deduction of legal judgment in matters of religion. He was also awarded a diploma by the distinguished traditionalist and scholar Shaykh Agha Buzurg Tehrani testifying to his skill in the science of “Rijal” biographies of Hadees, Prophetic traditions, and narrators of those hadees.

Some professors of Howzah advised late Grand Ayatullah Khu’i to groom someone for the office of Supreme Religious Authority. Hence the choice fell on His Eminence Grand Ayatullah Sistani for his merits, eligibility, knowledge, and impeccable character. Accordingly, he started leading the prayer in Imam al-Khu’i Mosque in al-Khadra in his life time in 1408 A.H and continued leading the prayer until the mosque was closed in 1414 A.H.

His Eminence performed Hajj three times.

The Salient features of His Eminence’s methods of teaching are:

He speaks about the history of the research.

He always connects between the thoughts of Howzah and the contemporary civilizations.

He always looks after the principles in relation to Fiqh.

His believes that a faqih must penetrate into the real meaning behind the text.

He believes that a faqih must be acquainted with Arabic literature, civilizations, oratory, poems, grammar etc.

He always compares his research or discussion with two main centers of knowledge; Mashhad and Qum.

Characteristics of his personality:

He exercises equity and respect for other’s opinions.

He is Polite in discussions.

As a teacher, he regards his work as a heavenly mission practiced with love, care and full responsibility.

He is a pious man leading a simple life.

He is modern faqih with genuine principles.

His work includes books on “Current Legal Issues, A Code of Practice for Muslims living in the West, Hajj Rituals, Islamic Laws, and Jurisprudence Made Easy.”There are thirty two other published works which have to be translated into English.

On March 4, 2014, the Daily Telegraph commentator Colin Freeman published an article naming Grand Ayatullah Sayyid Ali al-Husayni al Sistani, as the most appropriate Nobel Peace Prize candidate. Similarly, The Tehran Times reported that a group of members of the Iraqi Parliament announced that they intend to nominate His Eminence for the 2014 Noble Peace Prize.

There are about 43 Institutions all over the world rendering social, educational, medical, and religious services under His Eminence Grand Ayatullah Sistani.

There is a huge network of web-sites catering to needs of Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Sources used:

WIKIPEDIA

SISTANI.ORG

IRAQ:Grand Ayatullah Ali al-Sistani.com

SCATTERED PEARLS - 1

Extracts from the book “Dastan hai Paragandah” compiled by Ayatullah Sayyid Abdul Hussayn Dasteghaib (r.a.):

The Miracle of “Bismillah hir Rahmaanir Rahim”:

The emperor of Rome had requested cure for his strange headache from the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.). The Imam gave a cap to the emperor’s messenger and advised that whenever he feels headache, he should wear the cap. The emperor wore that cap and surprisingly his headache had subsided. After a few times, he became inquisitive to know as to what was inside the cap. He ordered that the cap should be torn open. When the cap was torn up, they found the following Divine Phrase: “Bismillah hir Rahmaanir Rahim”

Broken Gem:

A goldsmith used to live in the neighborhood of the Infallible Imam Muhammad Taqi (a.s.). The minister of Abbasside Caliph of the time sent a valuable gem and asked the goldsmith to fit it into a ring. As the goldsmith was trying to fix the gem into the ring, it broke into two pieces. He was scared to death and in that condition he came in the presence of the Infallible Imam (a.s.) and told him about the mishap. The Infallible Imam (a.s.) pacified him and told him not to worry about it, be patient, Allah is All-Powerful. After a few days, a messenger came from the minster saying that as he had two wives and the other wife also wants the exact gem in a ring as the first one. Further, the minister did not have another gem of the same quality, hence if he could break the gem and make two rings. The goldsmith made two rings and also received huge rewards. The goldsmith thanked the Imam. Man should always have hopes from only Allah.

Slave’s Confidence:

The Infallible Imam Zain-al-Abedin (a.s.) called his slave for some work but he did not respond, the Imam called him again but he did not reply. The Imam went and finished his work. After wards, he asked the slave: “I called you twice did you not hear it?” The salve replied: “Yes, I did.” The Imam inquired: “Then why you did not reply?” The slave said: “I was tired, and I was confident that you will not scold me!” The Imam raised his hands and said: “O Allah! I thank you that my slave has amnesty and not afraid of any oppression or anger from me.”

Loan in the name of Imam Ali (a.s.):

Ibrahim ibn Mehran narrates in the book “Kalema-e-Tayyaba” as follows: “Abu Jaffar was my neighbor in Kufa. He was a pious man of good manners. He used to pay the needy Sayyids from “Sahme Sadaat”. If any Non-Sayyid comes, he used to tell his slave to pay the needy and charge it “debt on Imam Ali (a.s.)”. After some time he became poor and started reviewing the record and started calling the people to whom he had loaned. Once an enemy of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) was passing near his house and sarcastically remarked: “What will you do about your main debtor Ali Ibn Abi Talib?”That night, he had a dream in which he saw the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) asking Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Husayn (a.s.): “Where is your father?” Imam Ali (a.s.), was seated at his back, said “I am here.” The Prophet said: “Why don’t you pay his right" Imam Ali (a.s.) handed over a woolen bag to the man and said: “This is yours, keep it and you will not face difficulties.” Abu Jaffar says that when he woke up, the woolen bag was still in his hand. He awoke his wife and both saw that there were one thousand gold coins in the bag. When he reviewed his record, he found that the amount in “Loan in the name of Imam Ali (a.s.)” was exactly one thousand gold coins, not one coin less nor more.

Blessings by thankfulness to Allah:

The Infallible Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.) narrates: “There was a pious couple in the Children of Isra’il (Bani Isra’il). The man had a dream in which he was informed “you will live for certain number of years. Half of your life will be financially comfortable and other half will be a financial crunch. You will be given an option which one you want first. The man promised to consult her pious wife and then decide.” In the morning, the man discussed it with his wife. She said: “You opt for the financial comfort in the earlier part of life and with the God’s mercy; He may extend our comforts for the remaining part of our life.” Next night he again had a dream and informed the person to have comfortable life in the earlier part. He was told that it will be as he desired.” The life became very comfortable as wealth started flowing in his life. His wife told him: “You should help your relatives, neighbors, and destitute.” The man continued to spend in the path of God and half of his life passed. Then again he had a dream in which he was told that because he had spend his wealth in the God’s path and was thankful to Him; hence his remaining half of life will continue to be comfortable and full of blessings.

HAZRAT KUMAIL IBN ZIAD AL-NAKHA'I (R.A.)

Hazrat Kumayl ibn Ziyad al-Nakha’i was one of the most pious and loyal companions of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.). During the period of the Caliphate of Imam Ali (a.s.), he flourished and attained a prominent position, learned the secrets of life from his mentor, master, and friend. Imam Ali (a.s.) taught him the famous Dua’a of Khizr, which was subsequently known as “Dua’a-e-Kumayl”, a master piece of Arabic literature bearing the stamp of the “Gateway of Knowledge” of the City of Knowledge-the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.).

He was born in the First Year A.H. in Yemen and belonged to the tribe of Banu Nakha, hence his title of “Al-Nakha’i”

Conversion to Islam: The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) sent Khalid ibn Walid to the people of Yemen to extend invitation to Islam. But he could not convince the people as it very rarely happens that a swords- man can possess line of wisdom. The people began hurling stones at him and he returned to Madinah unsuccessful. Then the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s) sent his “Self” as represented in Glorious Qur’an Ayah “Mubahela”. Imam Ali (a.s.) along with a few Muslims went to Yemen and the people hearing the name of Islam again, started hurling stones at them also. But Imam Ali (a.s.) advised his companions to remain patient. Kumail who was a young man narrates: “Imam Ali (a.s.) explained Islam to us with wisdom, honor, and dignity, and within few moments all of us wanted to join the religion of the Noble Prophet.” They were attracted towards Islam by the fact that although they abused and angered Imam Ali (a.s.), yet he responded by good manners! Hence Banu Nakha, Kinda, Hamadan, and Thaftan tribes accepted Islam. Likewise, Kumayl ibn Ziyad, Malik al-Ashtar, Hujr ibn Adi, and Uwais al-Qarani were also inspired by Imam Ali (a.s.)’s teachings and manners and accepted Islam. Since that time they developed a deep love and respect for the Commander of the Faithful.

Conflict with governor of Kufa appointed by Third Caliph: The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) had sent Walid ibn Uqba (half brother of the third caliph) to collect Zakaat from the tribe of Bani al-Mustalaq. Before converting to Islam there was deep enmity between Walid and Bani al-Mustalaq. When the people heard that a representative of the Prophet was coming, they were over-joyed and rushed to welcome him. Walid thought that because of old enmity they were coming to attack him. Hence without establishing the truth, he returned to Madinah and told a lie that Bani al-Mustalaq had refused to pay zakaat. The Noble Prophet was about to embark upon going to punish them when Ayah 6 of Surah Hujrat was revealed saying: “Believers, if one who publicly commits sins brings you any news, ascertain its truthfulness carefully, lest you harm people through ignorance and then regret what you have done.” The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s) called him a “Fasiq” (An open sinner) and asked him to be exiled. He remained in exile till the third caliph (in open contravention of the Prophetic order) called him back and appointed him as the governor of Kufa!

One day, Walid came to the mosque in a drunken condition to lead the Morning Prayer. He was so intoxicated that instead of two rakat he read four rakat and after completing four rakat he turned back and asked the people if he should continue! This event enraged the Muslims and a group of ten Muslims including Malik al-Ashtar and Kumayl ibn Ziayd complained to Muawiya but he rejected them and quoted Ayah 59 of Surah al-Nisa: “…..obey your Ulil Amr”

Kumayl ibn Ziyad as governor of Hit, Iraq: Imam Ali (a.s.) appointed Kumayl as the governor of Hit and reminded him never to leave Hit. Muawiya attacked Kafarqos city and Kumayl left to protect it. Imam Ali (a.s.)’s letter No.61 of Nahjul Balagha refers to this episode.

Hadees al-Haqiqah: Kumayl was much closer to Imam Ali (a.s) and wanted to acquire as much knowledge as possible. There is a dialogue between the two concerning “What is the Truth”.

Kumayl ibn Ziayad had saved many supplications instructed to him by the “Gateway of Knowledge” and “Khateeb-e-Member-e-Salooni”; Imam Ali (a.s.). The most famous ones are; Dua’a-e-Kumayl and Dua’a-e-Sabah.

When his master, mentor, friend, Imam Ali (a.s.) was martyred in the Masjid-e-Kufa while prostrating in the morning prayers, Kumayl was saddened and cried. Kumayl himself says: “When I lost Ali ibn Abi Talib, I lost the secrets of Allah on earth!” After the martyrdom of Imam Ali (a.s), Kumayl disappeared for forty years. When Abdul Malik ibn Marwan came to power, he appointed Hajjaj ibn Yusuf as the governor of Kufa. Hajjaj’s hatred for Shias may be gauged by his saying: “From now on, in Eid-al-Azha, sacrifice anyone who is named Ali, Hasan and Husayn!” Was he even a Muslim?

Hajjaj asked Kumayl to disown Imam Ali (a.s.) so he will not kill him. Kumayl said: “Show me a better religion than Abu Turab’s religion, I will follow it.” He was martyred by Hajjaj at the age of 84.

Legacy: Kumayl is held in high respect and esteem all over the world for his words of wisdom, Dua’as, stance against oppression/corrupt rulers and martyrdom. His life highlighted that one should be disciplined, firm, have faith in Allah and sacrifice to keep the message of Allah alive.

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur’an-translation                                                  by Ayatullah Nasir Makarem Shirazi

WIKIPEDIA, Shisstudies.net, and Islamic Blessings by Kamal al-Saiyyid

SHAHEED AYATULLAH SAYYID ABDUL HUSSAYN DASTEGHAIB (R.A.)

He was born in Shiraz, Iran in the year 1332 A.H. He belonged to a highly religious family that was known for its intellectual heritage going back to 800 years!  He began his religious education at an early age, and in his late teen years he was already leading prayers in Masjid Baqir Khan in Shiraz. In the year 1353 A.H. he travelled to Najaf al-Ashraf, the renowned seat of learning of Islamic studies. He studied under the most prominent scholars like Sayyid Abul  Hasan Isphhani, Sayyid Ali Qazi Tabatabai, and Shaikh Diauddin al-Iraqi.

Upon completion of his education, he returned to Shiraz. He began fundraising to revitalize the Seminary in Shiraz as it was in decline for centuries.  Along with a few local scholars, he began teaching theology, jurisprudence, and exegesis.

He openly spoke in favor of Ayatollah Khomeini and his revolutionary ideas. Consequently he was frequently placed under house arrest. But he continued his efforts to prepare the people mentally and spiritually for the revolution.

Apart from his academic writings, he also had written dozens of books on morals for the ordinary believers. Several of his books were translated in English and other languages. To mention a few, these were Greater Sins, Iste’aaza (Seeking Allah’s Protection from Shaitan), Qalbe Saleem (Immaculate Conscience),Commentaries on Surah Hujraat and Surah Yaseen, Salaat al- Khashi’een, Nafas al-Mutmainna, biographies of the Lady of Paradise Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) and Sayyida Zainab-e-Kubra (s.a.).

His translated books in Urdu are:

Aalam-e-Barzakh, Sachche Wa’qeaat, Bikhre Moti, Darul Aakhira, Dars-e-Akhlaq, Jawab Hazir Hai, Hairat Angez Waqeaat, Tafsir Surah Hujrat, Maulai Dastanain, Nafsi Mutmainna, Ma’ad (Qiamat)

After the revolution he was elected to the Parliament from Shiraz. He was also appointed the Representative of Ayatullah Khomeini in Shiraz as well as the prayer leader of the Jame’ Masjid of Shiraz. A pious and humble man and excellent model of spirituality with a lofty character, hence he was greatly loved and respected by his entire congregation.

However, there were terrorists working to destabilize the Islamic Government in Iran. They had assassinated several leaders of the revolution including Sayyid Muhammad Beheshti, Sayyid Ali Qazi Tabatabai, Sayyid Asadullah Madani, and Shaikh Murtaza Mutahhari. In the year 1402 A.H. as he was proceeding to lead the Friday Prayers, a powerful explosion shook the city, and the beloved prayer leader of Shiraz was martyred. His body was collected piece by piece, and amid an outcry of grief, he was laid to rest in the city of Shiraz.

Sources used:

Islamic insights

Shianeali.com

HAZRAT BILAL (R.A.), THE FIRST MUAZZIN OF ISLAM

His name was Bilal ibn Rabah. He is also called Bilal al-Habashi.  He was born in a mountainous village in the Western Arabia in the year 578 A.D. His parents migrated from Ethiopia. His father was called Rabah and his mother was known as Hammama. As per some reports, she was a former Princess of Abyssinia, who was captured after the event of A’mul Feel- year of elephant-(an abortive attempt to destroy Ka’aba) and put into slavery. His parents were slave of Umaiyya bin Khalaf of Quraysh of Makkah. He was the first African slave to accept Islam. He had a strong faith in Allah and loved the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.).

When his master came to know about his conversion to Islam, he became very angry and forced him to disown Islam, but he refused. He decided to torture Bilal by flame of fire, whipping, and make him lie in the scorching heat of the desert laying a heavy stone on his chest, but Bilal was determined like a rock and resolutely suffered pain, and would continue to say: “Ahad, Ahad” (God is Absolute/One) When the news of Bilal’s torture reached the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), he ordered Abu Bakr to purchase Bilal to relieve him from this misery. Abu Bakr purchased Bilal and set him free.

He was chosen by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) to be the first Mu’azzin of Islam. Bilal was famous for his beautiful voice with which he used to call the Muslims for prayers.

He was given the honor of carrying the spear of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) to point the direction of Ka’aba for prayers. He took part in all the military expeditions along with the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). In the Battle of Badr, he killed his former master Umaiyyah bin Khalaf.

In the month of January 630 A.D., after the Victory of Makkah, which was achieved by the intelligent planning of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) without any blood –shed, he ordered Bilal to ascend on top of the Ka’aba and called “Azaan” inviting Muslims for prayers. This was the historic moment when for the first time the “Azaan” was called in the most sacred city of Makkah.

In Madinah, Bilal was appointed the Treasurer of the Public Treasury (Bait-ul-Maal). As the Treasurer, he was responsible for the allocation of funds and also used to distribute funds to the widows, orphans, the wayfarers (travelers), and people who could not support themselves.

After the sad demise of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), Bilal was one of those who did not pay allegiance to the first caliph elected at Saqifah. (Sayyid Saeed Akhtar Rizvi, Majalis Muminin by Nurullah Shustari, The Hidden Truth about Karbala by A.K.Ahmad, and Medieval Islamic Civilization by Joseph W. Meri & Jere Bacharach)

The second caliph grabbed Bilal by his clothes and said: “Is this the reward of Abu Bakr; he emancipated you and you are now refusing to pay allegiance to him?”

Bilal replied: “If Abu Bakr emancipated me for the pleasure of Alllah, and then leave me alone for Allah; and if he emancipated me for his service, then I am ready to render him the services required. But I am not going to pay allegiance to a person whom the Messenger of God had not appointed as his caliph!”

Similarly, Sunni writer Yusuf Abdullah writes in “al-Isti’ab”:

Bilal told Abu Bakr: “If you have emancipated me for yourself, then make me a captive again; but if you have emancipated me for Allah, then let me go in the way of Allah.” Umar ibn Khattab replied: “You should not remain here among us.”

After being exiled by Abu Bakr and Umar ibn Khattab, Bilal migrated to Syria. He was among the earlier Shias of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.)

When Bilal’s wife realized that death was approaching Bilal, she became sorrowful and exclaimed: “What a painful affliction!” Bilal corrected her saying: “On the contrary, what a happy occasion! Tomorrow I will meet my beloved Muhammad and his host.” (Alexander D.Knysh, Lebanon).

Bilal died around 20 A.H. and was buried in Damascus, Syria within the Bab-al-Saghir Cemetry.

Sources used:

WIKIPEDIA/ ISLAMIC OCCASIONS .COM

Bilal’s bed time stories                                                                                   by A.H.Sheriff

HAZRAT MIQDAD IBN AL-ASWAD AL-KUNDI (R.A.)

Hazrat Miqdad was from al-Kunda tribe in Yemen. He migrated to Makkah and belonged to al-Aswad bin Abid Yaqut al-Zuhry. A Divine commandment was revealed concerning Hazrat Miqdad saying: “Call them with their father’s name.”When Miqdad was about 24 years old, he heard about Islam and he hurried to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) to accept the new religion. However, he kept his faith a secret and used to see the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) frequently. He was from earlier Muslims.

When directed by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), he migrated to Madinah along with other Muslims. He admired the young Imam Ali (a.s.), who sacrificed his life to save and protect the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) from the swords of the Polytheists of Makkah.

Before the Battle of Badr, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) asked for opinion, one of the companions said: “It’s Quraish and its disloyalty. It has not become a base since it became strong. And it has not believed since it disbelieved.”  Hazrat Miqdad stood up and said with enthusiasm: “Allah’s Prophet! Go on obeying Allah’s orders! We will support you! By Allah, we won’t say as the Jews said to their Prophet. You and your Lord, go on fight! We will stay here. We will say: We will fight with you.”  During the Battle of Badr, he captured the Nadhar bin Harris among other captives. When they were brought before the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), he ordered Nadhar to be killed as he had perpetrated torture on Muslims. But Hazrat Miqdad said: “O Apostle of Allah! Nadhar is my prisoner.” The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) knew that Hazrat Miqdad wanted ransom, hence he prayed to Allah to increase Hazrat Miqdad’s sustenance.  He was satisfied by the prayer and handed over the enemy to the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) for punishment.

In the Battle of Uhad, Hazrat Miqdad was the leader of the Muslim horsemen and fought bravely. Before the battle commenced, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) had posted 50 best bow men at al-Ainan mount to protect the Muslim army from the back. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) ordered to attack the enemy’s banner which was dropped and picked -up by the enemy but ultimately the banner dropped and could not be picked up and the polytheists were defeated and ran away. In spite of the Prophet’s clear instruction not to leave the post, the bowmen left the post to collect the war-booty. A contingent of the Polytheist’s army headed by Khalid bin Walid attacked from behind the unprotected post and played havoc in the jubilant collectors of booty. They attacked the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) who was being protected by Imam Ali (a.s.), Hazrat Miqdad and few other loyal soldiers.

Miqdad deeply believed in Allah and His Apostle so the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “Allah has ordered me to love four persons and that Allah also loves them. The persons are; Ali, Miqdad, Abu Dharr, and Salman.”

After the sad demise of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) when the Muslims did not accept Allah’s clear directive to appoint The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) as his successor, Hazrat Miqdad and other senior companions stood behind Imam Ali (a.s.) and did not pay allegiance to the new caliph.

He continued to fight for Islam when it was in danger. He used to teach the Glorious Qur’an to the people, and his teaching style became famous in Shaam (Syria).

When Abu Dharr was exiled by the third caliph, Muslims were prohibited from having any contact with him. Only Imam Ali (a.s.), Imam Hasan (a.s.), Imam Hussayn (a.s.), Aqil, Abdullah ibn Jaffar, Abdullah ibn Abbas, and Miqdad went to see-off Abu Dharr!

Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 129: “Our Lord! Raise up in their midst a Messenger from among them who shall recite to them Your Revelations, shall instruct them in the Book and in wisdom, and purify them. Indeed You are the Mighty, the Wise.” This Ayah shows that apart from knowledge, wisdom, and guidance, the purification of soul, viz spiritual training, is an essential part of the Prophetic Mission.

In the school of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) a number of people acquired this special training and made a marvelous and dazzling progress. Salman Farsi, Abu Dharr Ghifari, Miqdad bin al-aswad, Ammar ibn al-Yasir, Maytham al-Tammar, Uwais al-Qarani, and many more were among this distinguished group.

Sources used:

Al-Amali                                                                                                       Shaykh Mufid (r.a.)

Miqdad ibn al-Aswad                                                                                    Kamal al-Sayyid

An account of some senior companions                                                          Imamreza.net

Master and mastership                                                                                  Ayatollah Murtadha Mutahhari

AMMAR IBN YASIR (R.A.)

His complete name was Ammar ibn Yasir ibn Amir ibn Malik Abu al-Yaqzan. He was one of the pious Muhajireen in the history of Islam and most loyal and beloved companion of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.). He was the first Muslim to build a mosque. He is also considered by the Shia Muslims to be one of the “Four Companions”.

He was born in Makkah in the Year of Elephant, the same year as his Master the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) was born. He was a friend of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) even before conversion to Islam. He was one of the intermediaries in the marriage of his master and Hazrat Khadija (s.a.). His mother was Sumaiyyah bint Khaiyyat and his father was Yasir ibn Amir. After conversion to Islam, Ammar and his parents were tortured by Abu Jahal. He ordered heavy stones be placed on their chests, red hot spears were penetrated in their bodies and ultimately they attained martyrdom. His mother became the first female martyr of Islam.

Ammar survived but bore the most severe form of mental torture as he was the witness of the brutal martyrdom of his parents. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) pacified the family of Ammar saying: “O’members of the family of Yasir! Be patient. You have been promised Paradise.” Surah al-Zumar Ayah 9 was revealed for Ammar saying: “Can this one be considered equal to one who worships Allah during the night, prostrating and standing, who has fear of the Day of Judgment, and who has hope in the mercy of his Lord? Say, “Are those who know equal to those who do not know? Only the people of reason take heed.”

The opening Ayahs of Surah al-Ankabut was revealed relating to this tragic event. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) would always mention the merits of Ammar by saying: “Ammar is with the truth and truth is with Ammar.”

Ammar fought many battles with the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and his last battle was the Battle of Siffin. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) had foretold Ammar that he would be killed by rebellious people and that his last earthly food will be milk!

After the sad demise of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), Ammar did not pay allegiance to the first caliph, because he believed that the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) was the legitimate successor of the Prophet, whom the Prophet had appointed as his successor. The second caliph had appointed him as governor of Kufa. He criticized the third caliph for not following the Islamic orders practiced by the second caliph. The third caliph did not like his criticism and ordered that Ammar be beaten up.

Battle of Camel: When the events were progressing towards the battle, Imam Ali (a.s.) sent Ammar along with Imam Hasan (as.) to muster support from the people of Kufa. Abu Musa Ash’ari was the governor of Kufa and concocted false traditions to persuade the people of Kufa to remain neutral. Imam Ali (a.s.) had already deposed him but did not leave until Malik al-Ashtar reached Kufa and evicted him from Kufa.

Battle of Siffin: Ammar said on that day: “Let it be known to you that today I will be killed. I will take the deeds of this transient world into the eternal abode. So let it be known to you that the Prince of the Faithful (Imam Ali) is my exemplar and that Allah shall judge between the righteous and the evil from amongst His subjects.” He then spurred his horse forward towards the battlefield saying: “Today I will meet up with the loved ones, Muhammad, and his group.” He fought courageously and at last he was hit by sword on the waist. He was brought back in the tent. He asked for some water. One of the companions brought a bowl of milk and seeing the milk he said: “The Messenger of Allah did not lie!” On inquiry, he said: “The Messenger of Allah had informed me that the last provision from this world would be milk.” He went back in the battle field, again fought bravely and ultimately was martyred. He was 91 years old. Imam Ali (a.s.) eulogizing Ammar said: “We belong to Allah and to Him shall be our return. Whoever does not feel grief over the death of Ammar is not an adult and mature Muslim.  O’ Allah! Be Merciful to Ammar during that time when the Angels will question him in the grave. I did not witness with the Prophet a group of three, without Ammar being the fourth, or a group of four, without Ammar being the fifth. Ammar was not deserving of Paradise only once; he deserved it on many occasions. The everlasting gardens that await him are countless because he was with the truth and the truth was with him and as the Messenger of Allah said: “it (the truth) accompanies him every way which way he turns. “O’Allah! Torture the Murderer, the curser, of Ammar in Hell.”

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “Ammar is one of the four persons whom Paradise is keen to see; Imam Ali (a.s.), Ammar, Salman and Bilal bin Raba.”

His mausoleum in al-Raqqa, Syria was desecrated on March 13, 2013 by the Salafi/Wahabi group.

Sources used:

Ammar ibn Yasir-a companion of the Prophet                                     by Sadruddin Sharfuddin al-Amili

Imamreza.net             WIKIPEDIA

ASMA'A-UL-HUSNA (THE GREAT NAMES OF ALLAH) - AL-ADL

The word “Justice” (Adl) and its derivatives have been used in the Glorious Qur’an 49 times. Adil is one of the 99 Names of Allah called “Asma’a-ul-Husna” Man can only get information about the Divine Being through His Names/Attributes. The knowledge of the Divine Names has several grades. Some of them we can comprehend. Others can be grasped only by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and his Pure Progeny (a.s.).

Purely on materialistic basis, taking the name of Allah when starting any work invites a man to do the work correctly, sincerely, and in upright manner and keeps away from breach of trust and evil. Otherwise, the weak is in need of Allah in every moment of his life. By saying “Bismillah”, one shows his humility and seeks help from All-Mighty possessing immense Powers. In turn, the Merciful, and Powerful Allah put him in His special Grace, Favor, and Attention.

When Adam and Hawwa were sent down on earth, Allah said that His Guidance will be sent on earth and whoever follows the Guide will be rewarded and disobedient will be punished. This is the Divine Justice that no punishment is given before His guidance is provided. Moreover, we can witness His justice in each and every Astronomical creation, animal and plant life and the different systems in the human body.

Adil means the Being Who dispenses Justice. The extensive meaning of Justice is “to put everything in its place” or “in balance or equilibrium”. This is manifested in all created things in the universe; from atom to the universe including sun and earth etc. The other meaning of justice is related to “the individual rights” which entails reward and punishment, equity and oppression towards His creatures. He rewards His servants for good and virtuous deeds and punishes the evil doers or sinners. Everyone is responsible for his deeds; no other person is answerable for other’s deeds. Ash ‘rites say: “Even if Allah sends all of his prophets to Hell and all of the criminals and sinners to Paradise, it is not oppression.” This proposition is vain and baseless.

Justice is not equality. For example, it is not justice to pay the same wages to a highly skilled, efficient, and hard working person and also the same wages to a lazy, dumb and unskilled person. This is injustice.

A person commits oppression for any or all of the following reasons:

(1 ) Ignorance (2) Needs (3) Inability (4) Selfishness

None of the above shortcomings or deficiencies exists in Allah. Allah is “The All-Knowing”, “The Needless”, “The All-Powerful”, and “The Most Kind”. Allah punishes a sinner because of his bad deeds. Surah Younus Ayah 52: “You receive, but the recompense of what you have earned.” Surah al-Anbiya Ayah 47: “We shall maintain proper justice on the Day of Judgment. No soul will be wronged the least. For a deed even as small as mustard seed one will be duly recompensed.” Surah al-Nisa Ayah 40: “Allah does not do even an atom’s weight of injustice.” Surah an-Nahl Ayah 90: “Allah commands justice, the doing of good and kindness to family members and He Forbids all shameful deeds and injustice.” Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 279: “Deal not unjustly and you shall not be dealt with unjustly.”

As far the natural calamities, we should not determine it in a short range or partial picture, but look at the broader picture. For example, in one part of the country there is too much rain and flooding while other part desperately needs it. Events in the world are all linked together like a chain. Hence, putting our finger on only a small part of an issue and judging it is not to have used one’s intellect and logic properly. Human beings are provided with a limited knowledge according to the Ayah 85 of Surah al-Isra: “Of knowledge, it is only a little that is communicated to you.”

Similarly, undesirable events and warning is a sort of ups and downs of life to awaken men from forgetfulness of Allah and return to Him and perform individual duties and responsibilities. It refers to Surah al-Ana’am Ayah 43: “When the sufferings reached them from Us, why then did they not learn humility.” It has been witnessed that in certain individuals, the difficulties and misfortunes have developed them into geniuses. When a nation is attacked by a foreign power, it has emerged as a strong and united nation. A famous Arab historian says: “The blossoming of civilization has appeared throughout history in various parts of the world. It followed a country being attacked by a powerful foreign country, being awakened and mobilizing their forces.”  To a larger extent, the calamities and sufferings of the people have been brought about by man himself by oppression and injustice. The Judicious Allah should not be blamed for it.  

In Shia Islam, the Justice of Allah is so important that it has been considered as one of the “Roots of Islam”.

Sources used:

Justice of God                                                                                  by Ayatollah Nasir Makarem Shirazi

Discursive Theology                                                                         by Dr. Ali Rabbani Gulpaygani