THE ZENITH OF HUMANITY

Abu Sufiyan was the father of Muawiya. Abu Sufiyan led the majority of wars by the Polytheists of Makkah against the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) had to leave his place of birth-Makkah- to avert an imminent attack by the polytheists of Makkah, lead by Abu Sufiyan, on the eve of the Migration to Madinah. All the wars of defense were fought by the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) when he was in Madinah.

When the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) re-entered Makkah without any bloodshed, rightly called “Victory of Makkah”, the Polytheists reluctantly and outwardly accepted Islam so as to deceive the Muslims. They had witnessed that war-mongering did not pay off and the saw the Divine assistance was all along on the side of Muslims. As a last resort, they encouraged each other to enter the ranks of Muslims secretly keeping their hatred for Islam and Muslims.

When the “Lion of God”, the Commander of the Believers, the Infallible Imam Ali (a.s.) was stormed in his house and the multitude of disheartened Muslims pleaded him to accept the potent Khilafah, he reluctantly accepted to lead the Muslims. At that time, Muawiya was the governor of Syria, called Shaam”. He openly rebelled against the elected Khalifa, Imam Ali (a.s.). He falsely accused Imam Ali (a.s.) for the murder of the third caliph Usman son of Iffan and managed to gather 120,000 people to fight Imam Ali (a.s.). Muawiyah was a clever man. He used the force of false and baseless propaganda against Imam Ali (a.s.) and hypnotized the Shaamis in such a way that when the news of the martyrdom of Imam Ali (a.s.) in the mosque reached Shaam, people inquired if Imam Ali (a.s.) even read prayers!

Muawiya’s 120,000 men confronted Imam Ali (a.s.)’s army consisting of about 60,000 Muslims. The opposing armies gathered at the place called Siffeen in Iraq. Muawiya’s forces captured the banks of River Euphrates and refused to allow Imam Ali (a.s.)’s forces to take water. Imam Ali (a.s.), the symbol of peace and humanity, always believed in dialogue and used force only if attacked; never initiated any assault. He sent his representatives to allow every human being the basic right to access the free supply of water. But Muawiya wanted to use water as a weapon and wished to let Imam Ali (a.s.)’s army perish thirsty without fighting with sword. A cowardly and inhuman act! Ultimately, Imam Ali (a.s.)’s army attacked the water front and routed the Shaami forces and captured the river banks. The King of Martyrs Infallible Imam Husayn (a.s.) and the Commander Abbas son of Imam Ali (a.s.) were among the forces who captured the river Euphrates. Incidentally, after 25 years, Mauwiyah’s unlawfully appointed son Yazid played the same trick with Imam Husayn (a.s.) in Karbala where Imam Husayn (a.s.) and his 72 truthful  warriors were mercilessly deprived of water for 3 days and slaughtered them including an infant of 6 months Ali al-Asghar.

After the recapture of the water banks, the people in “Saqi-e-Kausar” Imam Ali (a.s.)’s army suggested the Imam to use the water weapon the same way as Muawiya planned to annihilate the Muslims. But the Tower of Humanity, the Divine Representative of Allah, the Conqueror of Khyber, the Self (Nafs) of Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), the Spouse of the Lady of Paradise, Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) refused to return evil with evil and declared: “The river belong to God. There is no embargo of water on anyone. God has given you victory because of their injustice and aggression. Certainly the issue is more important than depriving them of water.” Imam Ali (a.s.) sent a message to Muawiya: “We shall not treat you as you treated us. Come to the water, we are equal!”

MUSLIMS ARE EACH OTHER'S BROTHERS

In the Glorious Qur’an, Surah al-Hujaraat Ayah10: “Believers are each other’s brothers. Restore peace among your brothers. Have fear of Allah so that perhaps you will receive mercy.”

Surah al-Imran Ayah 103: “All of you must hold fast to the rope of Allah (the Qur’an and His Messenger), and recall how He favored you when your hostility toward each other had torn you apart. He united your hearts in one faith and through His Grace you became brothers….)

Surah al-Anfal Ayah 46: “Obey Allah and His Messenger. Do not quarrel with each other lest you fail or lose honor. Exercise patience; Allah is with those who have patience.”

Surah al-Tawbah Ayah 71: “The believers, both male and female, are each other’s protectors. They try to make others do virtues, prevent them from committing sins, perform their prayers, pay the religious tax, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah will have mercy on them. Allah is Majestic and All-Wise.”

In the above Ayah, the phrase “Believers are each other’s brothers” is the basic element of Muslim culture and faith. Irrespective of the geographical or linguistic or national affiliation, every Muslim is a brother of another Muslim. The annual congregation of Hajj is practical demonstration of the Muslim brotherhood. Muslims from every part of the world, of any color or creed, black or white, speaking different languages converges on the holy land of Makkah and Madinah to perform Hajj and visit the Grand Mosque of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). Islam treats every Muslim as a part of one family.

There are many Traditions of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), e.g. “Muslims are brothers of each other, and they never oppress each other, always help each other and do not leave them alone in any catastrophe. They are like hands; washing the other hands, protect their shortcomings.”

Similarly, the Infallible Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “Muslims are brothers of each other. They are like different parts of a body; if one part gets hurt, the other parts also feel the pinch. They are like guides, they never breach their trust, and neither oppresses nor breaks their promises.”

According to an authentic tradition, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) recounted thirty rights of a Muslim over other Muslims:

“He forgives the mistakes, be kind when he is upset or disturbed, protects his secrets, compensates his errors, accepts his apologies, defends him when someone back-bites him, well wisher for him, values his friendship, is lenient with his promises, visits when he is sick, attends his funeral, accepts his invitations, accepts his gifts, and returns his favors, is thankful for his beneficence, makes efforts to help him, protects his respect and family, fulfills his needs, recommends his request to others, says “YarhamakAllah” when he sneezes, guides for recovery of his lost possessions, returns his salutation (Salaam), respects his talks, ratifies his vows, treats his friends as friend, does not cultivate enmity with him, prevents him from oppressing others, helps him regain his rights, does not leave him alone to face difficulties and calamities, wants the same thing in goodness and virtues for him as he would like for himself, does not want evil for him which he does not want for himself.

Source used:

                Tafseer-e-Namoona                                               Ayatollah Nasir Makarem Shirazi  

IMAM ALI (A.S.) IN "ASRAR-E-KHUDI" OF ALLAMA IQBAL (R.A.)

Allama Iqbal (r.a.) was the “Thinker of Pakistan”. He was responsible for the Renaissance of Muslims in the South East Asia. Specially, the Muslims of pre-Partition India were backward in every area of life. They had forgotten their past glory. Lack of education compounded the problem. Allama Iqbal was determined to awaken the sleeping Muslims of India. Hence, he started composing poetry conveying the message of Islam.

Allama Iqbal was born in Sialkot on November 9^th 1877 A.D.  He was a Barrister, which is an honorable degree in Law, from Britain in the year 1906. Later, He was conferred upon with a Doctorate degree in 1908 from Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich Germany. He was a great thinker, philosopher of the mainstream Islam (Sunni).

He had authored the following books in Persian, Urdu, and English as detailed below:

Asrar-e-Khudi, Ramuz-e-Bekhudi, Payam-e-Mashriq, Zabur-e-Ajam, Bang-e-Dara, Bal-e-Jibril, Zarb-e-Kaleem, Javed Nama, the Development of Metaphysics in Persia, the Reconstruction of Religious Thoughts in Islam.

 Asrar-e-Khudi is written in Persian Language. He was a great admirer of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.). He expressed this immense love and appreciation in his Urdu and Persian work. Some of his couplets in Persian and its English translation are given below:

                         Muslim-e-Awwal Shahe Mardan Ali *Ishq Ra’ Sarmaya-e-Iman Ali

               Ali is the First Muslim and the King of men*In Love’s eyes, Ali is the treasure of Faith

              Mursil-e-Haq kardah Namish BuTurab*Haq YadUllaha Khawnad darKitab 

The Apostle of God called him the name Bu Turab*God in the Qur’an called him “Hand of Allah”

                  Zair-e-pash InjahShakuh-e-Khyber Ast*Dast-e-Uo Anja Qaseem-e-Kausar Ast

    Here, the Might of Khyber is under his feet*and in Hereafter, he will distribute the water of Kausar

                       Az Khudagahi, YadAllahi Kunad*Az YadAllahi Shahinshahi Kunad

 Through Self-Knowledge, he acts as God’s Hand*in virtue of being God’s Hand, he reigns over all

                 Zaat-e-Uoo Darwaza-e- Shahre Uloom*Zair-e-FarmanishHijaz-o-Cheen-o-Rome

         His person is the Gateway of the City of the sciences*Arabia, China, and Rome are his subjects 

          Murtaza Kaz Taigh-e-Uoo Haq Raushan Ast*Bu Turab Az Fath-e-Aqleem-e-Tan Ast

By Murtaza's sword, splendor of Truth was revealed*Is named Bu Turab from his conquest of body

                     Hark e Dar Afaaq  Gardad Bu Turab*BazGardardandze Maghrib Aftaab

                    Whosoever in the world become a Bu Turab*Turns back the Sun from the West

                 Chun Ali Dar Saz Ba Nan-e-Sha’eer*Gardan-e-Marhab Shikan, Khyber Begeer

             As Ali ate barley, secret of character and strength*Killed Marhab and extricated Khyber

                 Az Rukh-e-Uoo Faal Paighambar Girift* Millat-e-Haq Az Shakuhish Far Girift

     From Ali (a.s.)’s face, the Prophet drew many a fair omen*By his majesty true religion is glorified

                     Shair-e-Haq In Khaak Ra Tasqeer Kard*In Gil-e-Tareek Ra Ikseer Kard

                Ali, the Lion of God, subdued the body’s clay*and transmuted this dark earth into gold.

Allama Iqbal died on April 21, 1938 and was laid to rest in Lahore. After Pakistan was created, a mausoleum was completed on his grave near Badshahi Mosque in Lahore.

ABDUL MUTTALIB SON OF HASHIM (A.S.)

Abdul Muttalib was the grandfather of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). His father was Hashim and Salma was his mother. He was born in Madinah, and his mother named him Shayba .He was very young when his father Hashim died. On the death bed, Hashim told his brother Muttalib to go to Madinah and bring his beloved son Shaybah to him. When Muttalib brought back Shayba, the people thought that Shayba was his slave. People started calling Shayba as “Abdul Muttalib” which means slave of Muttalib. Although Muttalib tried to explain that Shayba was his nephew and not a slave, but the name stuck. After Muttalib became old, Shayba or Abdul Muttalib took over the duties of Saqaya and Rifadah. He had many good qualities and made many changes to the lives of Quraish.

Some of these changes were:

1.       He stopped the old custom of sons marrying their father’s women. Allah prohibited such                   custom in Surah al-Nisa Ayah 22: “Do not marry, from now on, the ex-wives of your                   fathers, for that custom was sinful and abominable.”

2.       As Abdul Muttalib found a treasure, he gave one-fifth as its alms. Allah revealed in Surah al-           Anfaal Ayah 41: “Know that whatever property you may gain, one-fifth belongs to Allah,           the Messenger, the relative, orphans, the needy and those who need money while on a                   journey…”

3.       He was the first man to make a Nazr or vow and fulfill it. Allah revealed in Surah al-Insan               (Hal-Ata) Ayah 7: “The servants of Allah fulfill their vows and are afraid of the Day in               which there will be great wide spread horror.”

4.       He stopped the people from drinking alcohol. Allah prohibited it in Surah al-Baqarah Ayah           19: “(Muhammad), they ask you about wine and gamble. Tell them there is great sin in               them.”

5.       He discouraged the terrible practice of burying daughters alive. Allah warns in Surah al-                   Takwir Ayah 8 & 9:  “Questions are asked about the baby the baby girls buried alive, such         as, “For what crime were they murdered?”  
 6.  He started the rule of cutting off the hand of a thief. Allah orders the hands of a thief in                     Surah al-Ma’idah Ayah 38: “Cut off the hands of a male or female thief as a punishment for       their deed and a lesson for them from Allah.”

Abdul Muttalib’s Nazr: He made a Nazr that if Allah grants 10 sons to him; he will sacrifice one of them. Allah granted him 10 sons. He wanted to fulfill the Nazr; hence it was decided to select the son by drawing lot. The lot came to the name of Hazrat Abdullah, the father of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), who was the youngest and loved by his father. Although, he wished to proceed with the sacrifice but the people begged him find a solution to this. A wise man advised that a lot should be cast between Hazrat Abdullah and 10 camels. In case the lot still fell for Hazrat Abdullah, an additional 10 camels be added and cast again. In those days, the blood money for accidental killing was 10 camels. Finally when a lot was cast for 100 camels it fell on camels. The people were over-joyed but Abdul Muttalib was not satisfied, so he drew lots 3 more time which fell on camels.

Abraha’s invasion of Ka’ba:

In the year 570 A.D., Abraha who was the ruler of Yemen invaded Ka’ba and camped outside Makkah. He sent some of his men to capture the camels of Makkans which included 200 camels belonging to Abdul Muttalib. Later, on the invitation of Abraha, Abdul Muttalib along with other leaders went to see him. Abdul Muttalib talked about the return of his camels only which surprised Abraha. In response to Abraha’s remarks, Abdul Muttalib gave the historical reply, saying: “I am the owner of the camels. The House (Ka’ba) too has Master who looks after it.” Abdul Muttalib advised his people to go in the hills for safety and prayed to Allah to protect them and the Ka’ba. The next morning Abraha prepared to march towards Makkah. Suddenly a huge flock of birds appeared from the Red Sea, holding tiny stones in their claws and beaks. They dropped the stones on Abraha’s army which killed the elephant and many soldiers and also the head of Abraha. He panicked and ordered his army to retreat. This dreadful and miraculous event is narrated in Surah al-Fil: “Did you not see how your Lord dealt with the people of the elephant? Did He not caused their evil plots to fail by sending against them flocks of swallows which hit them with small pebbles of clay turn them into (something) like the left over grass grazed by cattle?

THE MOON OF THE HASHIMITES - AL ABBAS SON OF IMAM ALI (A.S.)

The “Qamar-e-Bani Hashim” Al-Abbas was born on 4^th Sha’baan 26 A.H. His father was the “Lion of Allah”, “The Conqueror of Khyber”, the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.). His mother was Sayyida Umm-ul-Banin (s.a.), belonging to one of the most celebrated families in the field of honor, nobility, courage and bravery. Al-Abbas (a.s.) was the eldest and his other brothers were Abdullah, Jafar, Usman, and Muhammad. All of them were martyred in Karbala before Hazrat Al-Abbas (a.s.)

After the sad demise of the Chief of the women of the world and the Lady of Paradise, the Infallible Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), Imam Ali (a.s.) asked his brother Hazrat Aqil (a.s.) to look for a brave family for marriage so that she will give birth to a courageous hero to protect the “King of Martyrs” Imam Husayn (a.s.) and the Ahlul Bayt in Karbala.

Abbas means the lion, from whom the other lions fear and escape. His epithets (Kuniyyah) were: Abul-Fazal, Saqqa, Babul Husayn, Qamar-e-Bani Hashim, Bab-ul-Hawa’ij, Hamil-ul-Liwaa or Alamdaar, Kebsh ul-Kateba (unique courage and bravery to protect), and Abd-us-Salih. Imam Ali (a.s.) predicted while he was still a baby, when he kissed his little hands and wept. He pacified Hazrat Umm-ul-Banin (s.a.) when she cried to hear about the severance of his hands in Karbala and informed her about his great position with Allah.

Hazrat al-Abbas (a.s.) was raised under a mother who nurtured him on faith, loyalty, knowledge, devoutness and high principles. The father was the bravest man in history, a copy of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.). His brothers were the “Chief of the Youths of Paradise” and the nephew, the Infallible Imam Ali Zayn al-Abidin (a.s.). This sacred environment molded Hazrat Al-Abbas (a.s.) into a brave, courageous, knowledgeable, pious and loyal person. His loyalty and love with Imam Husayn (a.s.) was matchless. He was to Imam Husayn (a.s.) as Imam Ali (a.s.) was to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.).

QAMAR-E-BANI HASHIM IN THE EYES OF THE IMAMS (A.S.):

The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) had already told his family members that his son (Al-Abbas) will shoulder the responsibility of protecting his brother (Imam Husayn) and his harem, and his sisters and would sacrifice his life for Islam. These predictions are regarded as commendations for Hazrat al-Abbas whose mission was divinely identified and prepared. He did not disappoint his father.

Historians have narrated many reports showing the close and unique relationship between Al-Abbas (a.s.) and his brother Imam Husayn (a.s.). In one of many situations in Karbala, Imam Husayn (a.s.) said to his brother Al-Abbas: “Ride on, May I be your sacrifice”. Hazrat Al-Abbas (a.s.) always called Imam Husayn (a.s.) as “Master” and he never addressed him as “Brother”. In Karba,when Hazrat Al-Abbas (a.s.) was breathing his last in the lap of Imam Husayn (a.s.), the Imam (a.s.) said: “Now, my spine is broken and I have become helpless, and my enemies are rejoicing at my misfortune. The whole life, you never addressed me as a brother, it is my wish that at least now you call me brother!”

Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) was one of the founders of true piety and virtue in Islam. He (a.s.) used to refer his uncle with the finest words of admirations and commendations. He (a.s.) said: “May Allah have mercy upon my uncle, Al-Abbas. He preferred his brother to himself, and sacrificed himself for his brother until he lost his two hands. Allah will give him two wings to fly with the angels in Paradise. In the sight of Allah, the Blessed, the Exalted, al-Abbas enjoys a peculiar rank for which all the shahids will be hopeful for if they had its like on the Day of Resurrection.”

The Infallible Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.) said: “Salaam be upon Abul Fazal al-Abbas, son of Amir al-Momineen (Ali). He preferred his brother to himself, supplied himself with (opportunities of) today for (rewards of) tomorrow, sacrificed himself for his brother, protected him, and hurried for fetching him water, and his two hands were cut off for this. May Allah curse his killers!”

BIRTH OF THE KING OF MARTYRS, THE INFALLIBLE IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.)

As reported by “The Trustworthy Authority of Islam”Shaikh Kulaini, the Infallible Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “The time between the birth of the Infallible Imam Hasan (a.s.) and the Infallible Imam Husayn (a.s.) was six months and ten days.” He was born on the 3^rd. of Sha’baan 3 A.H. in Madinah.

The Infallible Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “Once, the neighbor’s of Lady Umme Aiman’s neighbors came to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and complained that the night before she did not sleep as she cried the whole night. When the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) inquired from her the reason for crying she explained to him (s.a.w.a.s.) that she had a dream that a part of his (s.a.w.a.s.) body was thrown into her house. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) replied: “Your eyes have slept, but you visioned a good thing. Umme Aiaman! Fatima will give birth to al-Husayn and you will bring him to me.” The wife of the “Moon of Bani Hashim” Umm al-Fazal (s.a.) also had a similar dream.

Hazrat Safia bint Abdul Muttalib, Hazrat Asma bint Umais, and the Mother of the Momineen Hazrat Umme Salma were present when the Infallible Imam Husayn (a.s.) was born. When the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) asked Hazrat Safia (his aunt) to bring the new born she said: “We have not cleaned him yet.” The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) replied; “You clean him? Surely Allah the Exalted has cleaned and purified him”

The Arch-angel Jibra’il, along with scores of other angels descended to the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and revealed to him the Divine Command to name the new born as “al-Husayn”. Al-Husayn is the Arabic version of the old Hebrew name Shabbir, which was Prophet Haroun’s second son’s name. He congratulated the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and also consoled him for the new born’s expected martyrdom! The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) addressed the infant and said: “O My dear son! May Allah curse the people who will kill you.” He repeated it three times. Hazrat Safia asked; “May my parents be your ransom! Who will kill him?” He (s.a.w.a.s.) replied: “The oppressive group to emerge from among the Bani Umayyad”. It is reported that the new born did not suckled any milk but instead he suckled the tongue of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) until he grew old enough to eat. Because of this his characteristics were exactly those of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.).

According to Shaikh Abbas Qummi, when the Chief of the women of the world, the Lady of Paradise, Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) became pregnant with the Infallible Imam Husayn (a.s.), Allah the Exalted sent felicitations to His Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and also condoled him for the expected martyrdom. When she was told about the expected martyrdom, she was grieved. Then the Ayah 15 of Surah al-Ahqaf was revealed which is: “With trouble did his mother bear him and with trouble did she bring him forth, and the time of bearing and the weaning of him was thirty months.” Normally a woman’s period of pregnancy is nine months, and no child born in six months can survive, except Prophet I’sa (a.s.) and Imam Husayn (a.s.)

The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) recited Azaan in his right ear and Iqamah in his left ear, and on the seventh day Aqiqah was performed and silver was given as charity equivalent to the weight of his hair.

Fitrus was one of the angels who was expelled by Allah due to laziness in complying with certain commands and was thrown on an island. When Arch-angel Jibra’il was descending towards earth to convey felicitations on the birth of Imam Husayn (a.s.), Fitrus requested to accompany him. When the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) was informed about Fitrus, he commanded Fitrus to touch his body to the new born Imam Husayn (a.s.) and as soon as he touched the body, he regained his wings and flew away saying: “Who is similar to me? For I am freed one of Husayn (a.s.), the son of Ali (a.s.) and Fatima (s.a.), whose grandfather is Ahmad (s.a.w.a.s.). Shaikh Tusi reported a supplication by the Awaited Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.), part of which says: “O Allah! I ask you in the name of the one who was born this day ……….Fitrus took shelter under his cradle, and we seek shelter after him under his grave.” Sayyid ibn Tawoos reported that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) prayed: “O Allah! Forsake him, who forsakes Husayn (a.s.), and slay him who slays Husayn (a.s.), and do not bestow abundance to the one who wishes to derive advantage from his death.”

Sources:

Fatima, the Gracious by Abu Muhammad Ordani

Nafsul Mahmum by Shaikh Abbas Qummi

THE EIGHTH ISLAMIC MONTH - SHA'BAAN

Sha’baan is the eighth month of the Islamic Calendar. The important events of this month are:

Ist. Birth of Shareekat-al-Husayn (a.s.), Sayyida Zaynab bint Ali (a.s.)

3^rd. Birth of the King of Martyrs, the Infallible Imam Husayn (a.s.)

4^th. Birth of the “Moon of Bani Hashim” Hazrat Abbas ibn Ali (a.s.)

5^th. Birth of the Infallible Imam Ali Zayn-al-Abedin (a.s.)

7^th. Birth of Hazrat Qasim ibn Hasan al-Mujtaba (a.s.)

8^th. Start of Ghaibat-e-Sughra of the Imam al-Asr (a.t.f.)

10^TH. Birth of Hazrat Ali –al-Akbar (a.s.)

13^th. Ayyam-e-Bayz

14^th. Ayyam-e-Bayz and also A’maal-e-Neema-e-Sha’baan in the evening

15^th. Ayyam-e-Bayz and also Birth of the Infallible Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.)

27^th. Fasting in the last three days of Sha’baan

28^th. Fasting in the last three days of Sha’baan

29^th. Fasting in the last three days of Sha’baan

The Noble Prophet used to say that Sha’baan is a month dedicated to him and whosoever fasts at least one day in this moth will definitely go to Heaven. As per the Infallible Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) the best deeds to be performed during this month are alms-giving and seeking repentance for ones’ sins.

The Infallible Imam Ali, Zain-al Abedin (a.s.) had said: “Whosoever is in love with the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.), wishes to seek nearness to Allah (s.w.t.) and receive His Bounties, favors and rewards in this world and in Hereafter, must connect Sha’baan with Ramazaan in the matter of fasting and special prayers.”

It is also reported that the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “Whosoever observes nine fasts in the whole month of Sha’baan, should not fear the interrogation of Munkar and Nakeer. Whosoever observes twelve fasts in the month of Sha’baan, 70,000 angels will descend on his or her grave on the first night of his burial, the night of Wahshah, to remove his or her fear and loneliness.”

A’maal during the month of Sha’baan:

Recite 70 times every day: “Astaghfirullahal Lazi Laa Ilaha Illah Howar Rahmanur Rahimul Hayyiul Qayyium Wa Atubu Ilaih. (I seek forgiveness of Allah who is ‘There is no God save Him’ the Beneficent, the Merciful, the Ever-living, the eternal, and I turn repentant to Him)

Recite Salawaat as much as possible. Give as much alms (Sadaqa) as possible.

Recite 1,000 times the following Zikr during the month:

La Ilaha Illahu Wa La Na’budu Illah Iyyiyahu Mukhleseena Lahuddina Wa Lau Karihal Mushrikun (There is no God save Allah, We do not worship save Him, making religion for Him only, however much the disbelievers be averse)

Shab-e-Baraat is the night of 15^th. Sha’baan: Do Ghusul with the intension of washing all sins. Keep awake the whole night in prayers as it has many rewards. Recite Astaghfirullah tasbih with attention or Dua-eTawassul. Recite Surah al-Yaseen, Ziyarat-e-Imam Husayn (a.s.), Dua-e-Kumayl, Dua-e-Nudbaa, and Dua-e-Imam Asr.

Recite 100 times Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest), Alhamdulillah (All praise belongs to Allah), Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah), and La Ilaha Illallah (There is no Lord worthy of worship, except Allah)

Surces used:

Islamiccompanions.org, Ziaraat.com, Islamicoccasions.com

THE NOBLE PROPHET (S.A.W.A.S.)'S ASCENSION (ME'RAAJ)

If we compare the general level of intellect of mankind as it existed 500 years ago with the modern level, we find a drastic change and upward progress. If anyone would talk about flying in the air, it appered impossible. Now the modern commercial air planes are flying from U.S.A. to Europe in about 8 hours. Man have landed on the Moon hence the problem of over-coming the Gravity, speed, breathing in outer space etc. have been resolved.

When Allah took his Messenger (Abd) to the Heavens, the people at that time-about 1,400 years back-refused to believe the Journey of Ascension. Unfortunately, the hypocrites, who reluctantly and outwardly accepted Islam at the time of “The Victory of Makkah”, planned to belittle the Grand Status of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) and established a factory to create traditions falsely labeling as hadith. In this vicious venture, they fabricated traditions (ahadith) to down grade the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s) and also his Pure Progeny specially the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.). There were arguments whether it was an Ascension in dream, or only soul or both body and soul. In the Ayah below, the word “Abd” is normally used for body and soul.

Ascension (Me’raaj) has been described in the Glorious Qur’an in two Surah; Surah al-Isra’ and Surah al-Najm.          Surah al-Isra’ Ayah 1: “Allah is the Exalted One who took His servant one night for a visit from the Sacred Mosque (in Makkah) to the Aqsa’ Mosque (in Jerusalem). Allah has blessed the surroundings of the Aqsa’ Mosque. He took His servant on this visit to show him (miracles) of His (existence). It is He Who is All-Hearing and All-Aware.

In Surah al-Najm Ayah 8 to 18 may be mentioned: “He (the Noble Prophet) then drew near and near until he was as close as the distance of two bows, or even less (to the point where from Allah’s words came). He then revealed to His servant whatever He wanted to reveal. His (Muhammad’s) heart did not lie about what he had witnessed. Do you then argue with him even about what he observed (and saw)? He certainly saw it (revelations) during his other descent. To the Lotus tree (in the seven heavens) near which is Al-Ma’wa’- Paradise. Even though, a covering covers the Lotus-tree. (Muhammad’s) eyes did not turn blind, nor did they lead him to falsehood. He certainly saw some of the greatest signs (of the creation) of his Lord.”

In this Surah, the nearness to Allah is “Shuhood-e-Batini” or cryptic witnessing as Allah has no physical body and can never be seen by the human eyes.

The Ascension commenced from the house of Lady Umme Ha’ani, the sister of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.). The whole city of Makkah was considered as “Masjid-al-Haram” in those days. The Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) along with the Arch-Angel  Jibra’il went to the Aqsa’ Mosque in Jerusalem and then proceeded to the heavenly journey on a special animal called “Buraq”. There he conversed with the souls of the previous prophets; saw the system of the world. He also saw the Paradise and the Hell from close quarters. Consequently, he became fully aware of the secrets of creation, the extent of the universe, and the signs of the Omnipotent Allah. He continued his journey and reached “Sidratal-Muntaha” and found it fully covered with splendor, magnificence and grandeur. It is also reported that the five times Salaat was made obligatory during his Ascension.

It is reported by Ibne Babawayh through authentic chains of narrators that the Infallible Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “He is not a true Shia who denies one of these four doctrines: the Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.)’s ascension to heaven; angel’s questioning the dead in the grave; the existence of Paradise and Hell; and the intercession of the Prophet on the Day of judgment.”

Sources used:

Hayat al-Qulub                                                                                    Allama Muhammad Baqir Majlisi

Al-Miraj, the night of ascension                                                          Mullah Faidh al-Kashani

Fourteen Luminaries                                                                            Ahamad Ahmadi Birjandi

Life of Muhammad                                                                              Sayyid Saeed Akhtar Rizvi

THE 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 Hazrat Hamidah (s.a.). His matchless devotion and worship of Allah had earned him the title of “al-Abdus Saleh” (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.a.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 by 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.a.s.). But thereafter, the kings made his life miserable and being afraid of the people’s love for Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.), 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 killed numerous innocent descendants of the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.).

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 in the prayer of God and days in fasting. He always 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 the Infallible 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 Yahiya 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 at the feet of the Imam (a.s.) and said: “Sir, from this very hour I want to be Allah’s slave.”

This news reached Harun. That is 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