EXCEPTIONAL AND UNBELIEVABLE SELF CONTROL

What is self-control? It is the ability to sub-due our emotions and behavior in the face of temptations and impulses in order to achieve longer term goals.

What is anger? It is an emotion that involves an uncomfortable and emotional response to a perceived provocation, hurt or threat.

Normally, it is difficult to control our anger and we spontaneously respond to the situation and react in an unthoughtful way which results in physical or emotional damage to the person causing the anger.

The Quraysh had gathered more than ten thousand warriors to attack Madinah and obliterate Islam once and for all. One of the companions of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), Salman Farsi (later named as Muhammadi), advised him to arrange to dig a trench around the city of Madinah. The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.s.) agreed and a trench was dig out to ward off any attack from the infidels.

The famous Egyptian writer Muhammad Husayn Haykal described the events as follows:

Although the campaign was organized by Abu Sufyan but the fighting man of his army was Amr ibn Abd Wudd.

It is reported by the historians that he was more than a match for one thousand cavaliers.

The attacking army laid a siege of Madinah and all exit routes were closed. One day Amr and three other infidels succeeded in clearing the trench and entered the premises of Madina. He advanced into the Muslim camp and challenged the heroes of Islam to come out and fight with him. There was no answer form the Muslim camp. The idolaters saw in him their hope of victory, the Muslims saw in his challenge the sentence of their death!

Surah al-Ah'zab Ayah 10 describes their condition as , “Behold!They came on you from above you and from below you, and behold, the eyes became dim and the hearts gaped to the throats, and you imagined various (vain) thoughts about Allah.”

Amr ibn Abdu Wudd expressed amazement that the Muslims were not showing any eagerness to enter Paradise where he was ready to send them! It is true that most of the Muslims were terror stricken but there was one among them who was not. He had, in fact , volunteered to accept Amr's very first challenge but the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had restrained him, hoping that someone else might like to face him (Amr). But he could see that no one dared to measure swords with him.

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had no choice but to allow his cousin, Ali, the Lion of Allah, to go and silence the taunts of Amr ibn Abdu Wudd. He (s.a.w.a.s.) gave Ali his own battle dress and Zulfiqar and prayed to Allah as, “O Allah! You have called to your service Obaida bin Harris in Badr, and Hamza bin Abdul Muttalib in Uhad. Now Ali alone is left with me. Be his protector, give him victory, and bring him back safely to me.” When Ali was going towards his adversary, he said, “He (Ali) is the embodiment of all Faith who is going to an encounter with the embodiment of all Unbelief.”The Battle is not being described here in detail but only a part which relates to the Most Bravest Man in human history and his enormous, unbelievable exhibition of his supreme self-control!Amr struck a mighty blow with his ponderous sword which cut through the shield, the helmet and the turban of Ali, and made a deep gash in his forehead. Blood leap out from the wound in a jet but Ali was not dismayed. He rallied, and then struck a counter-blow with the famous Zulfiqar, and it cleft the most formidable warrior of Arabia into two!”

However, Charles Cameron, a former researcher at Boston University, describes the duel with Amr ibn Abdu Wudd as, “Amr hammered blows on Ali's shield and clashed with his sword . Ali dropped his sword and shield to the ground; he leap to grab Amr's throat, and kicked him out of balance. Amr crashed to the ground, with Ali now towering over him. Amr spat over Ali's face, fully expecting death. Ali rose calmly from Amr's chest and stood a few paces away and said, “I only kill in the way of Allah and not for my private motive. Since you spat on my face , my killing you now may be from a desire for personal vengeance. So I spare your life. But Amr lunged at Ali who had enough time to prepare for a fresh assault. Amr's devastating blow shattered Ali's shield, inflicting a shallow cut on Ali's temple. As the second blow blow rose Ali's Zulfiqar decapitated Amr.”

Sources: Psychology today, WIKIPEDIA, Restatement of History of Islam and Muslims by S. Ali Asghar Razvi

Fourteen Stars by Allama Sayyid Najm-ul-Hasan Kararvi

SHAYTAN - THE ARCH ENEMY OF MANKIND

When Allah created Adam and asked the angels to prostrate to him, every one complied except Shaytan (Iblis). Allah expelled him but on his request allowed him a determined time. Shaytan's enmity with Adam and his progeny started from that time. He vowed to distract them all from the right path.

Shaytan's strategy is to first obstruct man in his virtuous deeds. If the man is not trapped in the devil designs, he will next try to influence his intention. For example, if a man wants to give charity, Shaytan will scare him of poverty but if still he gave charity, he will encourage the man to openly remind the person about it so that the person will not get any thawab for the charity.

Is'te'aza is seeking protection from Allah against Shaytan. The verbal portion is by saying “Auzu Billahe Minashshaytanir Rajeem” translated as “I seek protection from Allah against Shaytan, the banished one”

Hence, one should recite “Is'te'aza” before performing any virtuous even recommended deeds.

Even the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) was asked by Allah to recite the Du'a as stated in Surah al-Mu'minun Ayah 97 and 98, “Say, 'Lord, I seek your protection against the strong promptings of the devils (Shaytan). I seek your protection should they approach me.'”

According to the traditions of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), protection from Shaytan is specially recommended on three occasions; in the company of a strange woman, while one is angry, and at the time of dispensing justice.

We cannot see Shaytan but he sees us as stated in Surah al-A'raf Ayah 27, “Children of Adam, do not let Shaytan seduce you , as he caused your parents to be expelled from the garden (Paradise) . Shaytan and those like him see you but you do not see them.”

Shaytan does not force man to commit sins, he misguides and lures man towards the evil. If a man is pious, he will return to Allah and seek His protection and is saved from Satanic actions. But if the man is not pious, he will be trapped in Shaytan's network. Man is independent in his decision for any action and answerable on the Day of Judgment. Surah Ibrahim Ayah 22 says, “When the decree of Allah is issued, Shaytan will say, “Allah's promise to you was true, but I, too, made a promise to you and disregarded it. I had no authority over you. I just called you and you answered. Do not blame me but blame yourselves.”

It is Allah's justice that if He had given Shaytan access to the mankind then He has kept the door of repentance open for the mankind. According to a tradition of Behar-ul-Anwar volume 3, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had said, “Whoever repents one year before his death, Allah will forgive him. Then he said, “If he repents even one month before death he will be forgiven.” He said further, “If he repents one day before his death he is forgiven.” Lastly, he said, “Even one day is too much, if repents before seeing the death, Barzaq and the angel of death, he will be forgiven.” The Mercy and Forgiveness of Almighty Allah may be realized!

Shaytan's only purpose is to deprive mankind from faith on Allah and the Day of Judgment or at least he may not perform any virtue and continue in doing prohibited and bad deeds.

Protection (Is'te'aza) should not be only on our tongue but it should be from the depth of our souls. If we only recite Is'te'aza by tongue and continue to disobey Allah, it has no effect.

Seeking protection from Allah against Shaytan (Is'te'aza) may have three situations; one may recite 'Auzu Billahe Miashshaytanir Rajeem' without knowing its meanings and also not from the bottom of ones soul; next, one may know the meaning but without effecting the soul, which may be evident from the Shaytani acts; lastly one knows the meaning of Is'te'aza recited from the bottom of his heart and being fully aware of the Might and Exaltation of Allah. This is the true Is'te'aza.

Source: 

The Glorious Qur'an

 Is'te'aza by Ayatollah Syed Abdul Husain Dasteghaib

SOCIAL EVIL - PRIDE

Pride (Kibr) is the off-shoot of Ujb. When a person perceives a merit in himself and is overcome by a sense of pleasure, exultation and vanity, that state is called Ujb. Pride is the name of a psychic state in which a person feels a sense of superiority and behaves highhandedly with others.

The sense of pride or “Takabbur” may be for good attributes or even sinful behavior; for true faith or invalid faith, good qualities or praiseworthy attributes, righteous or sinful deeds.

Some of the Ayahs of the Glorious Qur'an are given below:

Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 34, “When We told the angels to prostrate before Adam, they all obeyed except Iblis, who abstained out of arrogance, and so he became one of those who deny the truth.” Surah al-A'raf Ayah 13, “The Lord ordered Shaytan to get out of the garden saying, “This is no place for you to be proud. Get out of this place, for you are worthless.”

Surah-al-Nahl Ayah23, “Allah certainly knows whatever you conceal or reveal. He does not love the proud ones.” Surah al-A'raf Ayah 146, “We will deprive those who are wrongly proud in the land of the blessing of revelations.” Surah Luqman Ayah 18,, “Do not show people that you are an inferior person. Do not walk around puffed-up with pride.” Surah al-Gha'fir Ayah 35 and Ayah 76, “Thus Allah cause to go astray the skeptical , transgressing people, those who dispute the revelations of Allah without having received clear authority. This act greatly angers Allah and the believers. Thus Allah seals the hearts of every arrogant oppressor.” “Enter the gates of Hell to live there in forever How terrible is the dwelling of the arrogant ones.” Surah al-Nisa Ayah 36, “Worship Allah and consider no one equal to Him. Be kind to your parents, relatives, orphans, the destitute, your near and distant neighbors, your companions, wayfarers, and your slaves. Allah does not love the proud and boastful ones.” Surah al-Ah'qaf Ayah 20, “On this day you will suffer a humiliating torment for your unreasonably arrogant manners on earth and for the evil deeds which you have committed.” Surah al-Zumar Ayah 60, “On the Day of Judgment you will see the faces of those who had invented falsehood against Allah blackened. Is not Hell the dwelling of the arrogant ones.”

The Infallible imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.) said, “There is no person who does not have a harness on his head, and an angel who attends to it. Whenever he is proud, the angel says, 'Be humble, lest God should disgrace you. Thus he is the greatest of human beings in his own eyes, whereas in other people's eyes he is the smallest of creatures. When he is humble and modest, God removes the harness from his head and the angel says to him, 'Elevate yourself, as God Almighty is elevating you'. Thus he is the smallest of persons in his own eyes, while the most elevated and exalted in the eyes of others.” (Al-Kafi volume 3 page 424)

He (a.s.) further said, “Refrain from pride and self-glorification, since pride is God Almighty's mantle, and one who contests with God regarding His cloak, God will shatter him and disgrace him on the Day of Resurrection.”

(Al-Kafi volume 3 page 424)

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur'an, Al-Kafi by Muhammad Yaqoob Kulayni

MANNER AND MORALS OF THE NOBLE MESSENGER (S.A.W.A.S.)

The Creator Himself has praised His Prophet by saying in Surah al-Qalam Ayah 4, “And most surely you conform (yourself) to sublime morality.” The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) established his unparalleled moral character before inviting the infidels of Makkah to Islam when they gave him the titles of “Siddique” (Truthful) and “Ameen” (Trustworthy). Manner and morals were the most important factors of his popularity and influence.

His morals reflects the Ayahs of the Glorious Qur'an, some of which may be reproduced below:

Surah al-A'raf Ayah 199, “Have forgiveness, preach the truth, and keep away from the ignorant ones.”Surah al-Nahl Ayah 90, “Allah commands to maintain justice, kindness and proper relations with the relatives...”

Surah al-Nahl Ayah 127, “Exercise patience and let it be for the cause of Allah...”

Surah Luqman Ayah 17, “....and bear patiently that which befalls you; surely these acts require courage.”

Surah al-Shu'ra Ayah 43, “And whoever is patient and forgiving, these most surely are actions due to courage.”

Surah al-Ma'idah Ayah 13, “...so pardon them and turn away; surely Allah loves those who do good (to others)”

Surah al-Nur Ayah 22, “Be considerate and forgiving. Do you not Allah to forgive you?”

Surah al-Fusssilat Ayah 34, “Repel (evil) with what is best, you will certainly find that your enemies will become your intimate friends.”

Surah Al Imran Ayah 134, “....and who also harness their anger and forgive the people.”

Surah al-Hujurat Ayah 12, “...and avoid most of suspicion, for surely in some cases suspicion is sin, and do not spy nor let some of you backbite others.”

He (s.a.w.a.s.) was the most generous, brave, truthful, loyal, kind and social person. Whoever encountered him initially was influenced by his awe and after meeting him became fond him.

The Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “He (s.a.w.a.s.) was always cheerful, good-natured and soft spoken, he was never nasty, never disappointed anyone. He had purified himself from three things; vain acts, extravagance, and argumentation. He spoke only when it entailed gaining heavenly rewards.”

He was extremely humble and kind, treated all Muslims equally, respected all and expressed his love for them. He was present in funeral ceremonies and saluted children first. He visited the poor to show his support and interacted with underprivileged and even accepted invitation of slaves. When he entered in an assembly, he would sit at the last row. Abu Zarr said that when he used to sit with his companion it would be difficult to identify him as he did not sit at a conspicuous place.

If he did not see a companion for three days, he would inquire about his well being. The Infallible Imam Ja'far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said, “The Messenger of Allah distributed his attention equally to all his companions and looked at them for equal duration of time.”

He was extremely kind and friendly to his wives and helped them in the family chores. Anas was his servant and he said that the Prophet never said:why did you do this? Or why you did not do that.

His life style was simple. He distributed equitably the funds from public treasury. His and his relative's share was never more than others. Ibn Abbas says: Some times many days and nights passed on the Prophet and his family when they did not have any food.

Source: Prophet hood and the Prophet of Islam by Ayatollah Ibrahim Amini

MUTUAL RIGHTS OF THE BELIEVERS

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “The people will be resurrected thirstier, hungrier, and more naked than they lived. Allah will give heavenly robes to those who have given clothing to believers, and feed heavenly blessings to those who have fed any believers, and will give heavenly drinks to those who have given any thing to drink. (Ali ibne abi Hamze). “Everything related to a believer is respectable including his dignity, his wealth, and his life.”

The Infallible Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) said, “The worth of feeding one of my followers is more than feeding one hundred thousands people.” (Ali al-Miqdam). “A believer should advise his believing brothers.” (Abi Obaydeh al-Haz'zae)

“If a believer expresses his hatred of any other religious brother, they are no longer friends. Whenever he tells his brother he is his enemy, one of them has become an infidel.” (Abi Hamza al Somali)

”The closest thing to becoming an infidel is to remember your believing brother's faults with the intention of blaming him in the future.” (Zurareh)

The Infallible Imam J'far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said, “Whoever gives a scary look to a believer will receive a scary look from Allah on the Resurrection Day.”

“Whoever visits an ill Muslim will be submerged in the sea of divine mercy, and whoever sits with that ill man will be accompanied by seventy thousand angels on his way back home. They will say, 'You have been purified and Heaven will be enjoyable for you.”

“If a believer is asked by another believer to help fulfill one of his vital needs , and he refuses to do so although he is able to directly or indirectly fulfill his needs, he will be resurrected with his hands tied to his neck and has to wait until Allah finishes the reckoning of all His creatures accounts.” (Safvan al-Jam'mal)

“Deliver my greetings to my friends and assure them that I guarantee Heaven for all of them except for the following people: 1. alcoholic. 2. gamblers, 3. people who reject the believers, 4. people who are haughty with the believers, 5. people who block the believers' needs, 6. people who do not help fulfill the needs of a believer who asks them for help, 7. people who do not marry off their daughter to a believer who comes to propose to marry her.” (Abdul Malik al-Nofy)

“Any believer who does not make an effort to help fulfill his religious brother's needs and does not advise him has committed treason against Allah and His Prophet.” (Ibrahim ibn Uthman)

“Cover up any act of stinginess you observe from any of your religious brothers.”

“O' Ishaq! Do you know that whenever two believers meet each other and shake hands, Allah will send down two hundred blessings on them. Ninety Nine blessings are for the one who like the other one more. And whenever they hug each other, Allah's Mercy will encompass them”

“Do not be deceitful with people, since you will lose all your friends.” (Abi Baseer)

“Allah will humiliate you in this world and in the Hereafter if you humiliate your believing brothers while you are able to help them. The reward of helping a believing brother is more than that for fasting for fasting and spiritual retreat to Makkah.” (Ibrahim al-Somali)

“Love for your Muslim brother the same things that you love for yourself.”

“Whenever three believers get together, it is not appropriate for any two of them to whisper in each other;s ear.”

Source: Mishkat ul Anwar fi Ghuralil Akhbar (The Lamp Niche for the Best Traditions)

             by: Hassan ibn Fazl ibn Hassan Tabarsi

TEN COMMANDMENTS IN SURAH AL-AN'AM (THE CATTLE)

In Ayahs 151-153 of Surah al-An'am, the prohibitions and the important Great Sins in Islam has been described as, “ (Muhammad), say, “Let me tell you about what your Lord has commanded: Do not consider anything equal to Allah; Be kind to your parents; Do not murder your children out of fear of poverty for We give sustenance to you and to them: Do not even approach indecency either in public or in private: Take not a life which Allah has made sacred except by way of justice and law. Thus does He commands you as you may learn wisdom: Do not handle the property of the orphans except with a good reason until they become mature and strong: Maintain equality in your dealings by the means of measurement and balance. No soul is responsible for what is beyond its ability: Be just in your words, even if the party involved is one of your relatives, and keep your promise with Allah. Thus does your Lord guide you so that you may take heed. This is My path and it is straight. Follow it and not other paths which will lead you far away from the path of Allah. Thus does Allah guide you so that you may become pious.”

Tauheed or Unity of Allah is the soul of Islam which encompasses both the roots and branches of Islam.

Every command is to be followed in three stages; comprehension, absorption, and pious deeds.

Allah mentions the “Ihsa'an” with parents immediately after emphasizing Tauheed which shows the importance of good behavior with parents.

Indecency is a mufti-facet term. It can be patent (public) or private(latent). The acts we commit inside our homes where none can see us are more important. It may include adultery or any prohibitive acts like seeing obscene pictures, reading books filled with obscenity etc. For this reason the Ayah is emphasizing that even do not go near the obscenity which may lead to the greater sins like adultery etc.

Allah is prohibiting murder of innocent human beings. In Surah al-Ma'idah Ayah 32 says, “We made it a law for the children of Is'rail that the killing of a person for reasons other than lawful reprisal or for stopping the evil in the land, is as great a sin as murdering all of mankind.”

The most delicate members of society are the orphans who have lost their fathers and are susceptible to adverse treatment by other members of the society. It is one of the Great Sins to manipulate and misuse orphan's property In Surah al-Nisa Ayah 10 states, “Those who wrongfully consume the property of orphans are, in fact, consuming fire in their bellies and they will suffer the blazing fire.”

Islam encourages justice and fairplay in Muslim society. Hence it orders its followers to be judicious in weighing the commodities correctly and sell fairly for the agreed price. Prophet Shu'aib warned his people about the dishonest weighing and measurement in Surah Hud Ayah 84 saying, “To the people of Madyan We sent their brother Shu'ayb, who told them, “My people,worship Allah; He is your only Lord. Do not be dishonest in your weighing and measuring. I can see you are safe and prosperous, but I am afraid for you of the overwhelming torment of the (appointed) day.” Similarly, Sura Rahman Ayah 9 states, “Therefore, maintain just measure and do not transgress against the Balance.”

Allah is warning to be just in our word. For example if we are required to testify even against our relatives, always speak the truth!, promises must be kept with Allah or others. We should respect our words.

In Surah al-Hamd, we recite 10 times in daily salaat saying, “Guide us to the straight path.” Allah is saying in the above Ayah that it is His path which is straight. It is to attain piety in this world.

Source used:

The Glorious Qur'an Translation (Urdu) by Ayatollah Nasir Makarem Shirazi

SECRET OF SUCCESS IN THE TWO WORLDS

It is one of the limitless mercy and kindness of Allah (s.w.t.) that He had created Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) as a guide and role model for the humanity! In order to achieve a peaceful and fuller life in this world and attain the intercession of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and his Ahlul Bayt (a.s), one should love them. Naturally, when we (humans) love, we try to emulate our lover in every possible way. Consequently, when we love Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), we should examine their lives minutely and follow their directives. God-wariness and piety is the corner-stone of their love. In reply to a question by Ja'bir Jaufi, Imam Baqir (a.s.) said, “Only the person who is God-wary and obeys Him is our Shi'a. Whoever obeys God will be our friend and whoever disobeys God will be our enemy” Imam Baqir (a.s.) told Fudayl, “Guard your tongue and restrain yourself from commiting sins. Be patient and perform your prayers for God is with the patient.”

Surah al-Shu'ra Ayah 23 says, “(Muhammad) Say, I do not ask of you any reward for it except the affection for (my) relatives.” In both the Sunni and Shia books, the word “relatives” refers to Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)”. Moreover, the word “affection” (Mawaddat) is love coupled with obedience. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “Everything has a foundation, and the foundation of Islam is to love us, the Ahlul Bayt.” Imam Sadiq (a.s.) said, “By God, no one will love us unless God has purified his heart.” The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “God has promised me not to accept the faith of a servant except by the love of my Ahlul Bayt.” Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “Truly, the Prophet promised me that only believers will love me and the hypocrites will dislike me.”

The effects and requirements of loving Ahlul Bayt (a.s.):

1. The Ahlul Bayt said: Whoever loves us will act like us.”
2. Imam Sadiq (a.s.) said, “Whoever loves our friends, loves us.”
3. Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “If along with the love for us, a person loves our enemies, he is not one of us.”
4. Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “Whoever loves us should be prepared for various calamities.”
5. Imam Sadiq (a.s.) said, “Whoever disregards a Muslim disregards us and has insulted God.”
6. Happiness at the moment of death.
7. A follower of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) who had restrained himself from all sins, supported by the Imams at the time of death, will be protected from any punishment in the Hereafter.
8. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “If a person who loves us makes a mistake, in his next step he will be guided until the Day of Judgment when Allah will rescue him.”
9. A person who loves Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) will strive to purify his soul and will endeavor to attain virtues and righteous deeds to get closer to them.
10. Resurrection with Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). Surah al-Nisa Ayah 69 says, “Whoever obeys God and the Apostle, they are with those whom God has blessed, including the prophets and the truthful, the martyrs and the righteous, and excellent companions are they.” The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “Whoever loves us, the Ahlul Bayt, for the sake of God, will be resurrected with us.”
11. Imam Sadiq (a.s.) narrated a story that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) on his journey came down from his camel and prostrated five times and resumed the journey. On inquiry, he explained that Gebra'il informed him that Imam Ali (a.s.) will be among the people of heaven and subsequently he was informed about Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), Imam Hasan , Imam (a.s.) Husayn (a.s.), their lovers will be among the people of heavens. Hence he performed five prostrations.
12. The love of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) is the foundation of the eternal life that begins with a pleasant death, glad tidings from the angel of death, and the Munkar and Nakir, and will be taken to paradise like a bride is taken to her home.
13. Peace and tranquility in this world. Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “ When the Ayah, 'Look! The hearts find rest in God's remembrance' (13:28) was revealed, the Prophet said that this is not merely for those who sincerely loved God, but also His Messenger, and the Ahlul Bayt; he also loves the believers both in their presence and their absence.”

Sources used: The Glorious Qur'an, Love for the Ahlul Bayt by Allama Husayn Ansariyan

HAZRAT BU ALI SHAH QALANDAR (R.A.)

His name was Shaikh Sharafudeen but generally known as “Bu Ali Shah Qalandar” His lineage goes back to one of the four schools of fiqh of Muslims; imam Abu Hanifa. He was born in Panipat, India in 600 A.H. Other reports say that he was born in Ganja, Azerbaijan, former Russian federation.

He was Sufi scholar and as the fact is that all Sufi connections culminate to the Commander of the Faithful, the Chief of Sufis, the Gateway of Knowledge, Imam Ali ibne Abi Talib (a.s.).

He is reported to be praying and meditating a lot; even he used to stand in water for several days. It is said that one day he was meditating, he heard a voice saying, “Sharafudeen, we granted your prayer, say, what do you want?” He replied, “I need none save you.” It is reported that a saint picked him up from water and put him on the soil. It is reported that the saint was the Chief of Sufis, Imam Ali (a.s.) himself. From that day on he was called “Bu Ali Shah Qalandar”

There is another legend that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) visited him in his dream and asked him for his wish. The Qalandar requested for the vilayat to which he (s.a.w.a.s.) replied that Imam Ali was the last Vali. The Qalandar asked for at least the fragrance of Imam Ali (a.s.) which was granted. Hence, from that time he was called “Bu (Fragrance) Ali Qalandar”

It is reported that he received spiritual training from the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.)

He stayed in Panipat, India and spread Islam. The Rajputs living around were the main beneficiaries of his efforts.

He wrote his famous couplet as under:

                                                  Hayderium, Qalandaram, Mustam

                                                  Banda-e-Murtaza Ali Hastum

                                                  Peshwa-e-Tamam Rindan Num

                                                  Kay Sage-Kuo-e-Sher-e-Yazdan Num

Meaning

                                                  I am Hayderi (a follower of Haider, Imam Ali), I am a Qalandar, and I am                                                     intoxicated (with inspiration)

                                                  I am a devote of Murtaza Ali (Imam Ali)

                                                  I am a leader of all Saints

                                                  Because I am a dog of the lane of Allah's Lion (Imam Ali)

One of the hundreds of names of Imam Ali (a.s.) was “Asadullah” Lion of Allah

He died on Ramazan 17, 724 A.H. His tomb is in Panipat, India.

Sources used :

Qalandaria.blogspot.com, Noormahal.in/bu ali shah qalandar, auliasworld.com

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE NOBLE MESSENGER (S.A.W.A.S.)

It is difficult to circumvent the characteristics of the person who received the last Message of Allah to whom Allah praises by saying, “Wa Innaka La Ala Khuluqin Azeem” “You have attained a great moral standard”(68:05)

“Wa Ma Arsalnaka Illah Rahmatan LilA'alameen” “(Muhammad), We have sent for no other reason but to be a mercy for mankind.” (21:107)

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) while still a young boy, did not like to sit idle and wanted to share responsibilities while living with Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) and he shepherd his sheep. He encouraged Muslims to work and said, “ Worship consists of seventy parts, the best of which consists of which is to earn a livelihood by lawful means. The supplication of one who sits at home and who asks Allah for provision without working is not answered.” When praying he always said, “O Allah! I take refuge in you from idleness, laziness.”

While working for Sayyida Khadija (s.a.) on trading trips, he always observed justice and equity and avoided telling lies and fraud.

He became well-known for his truthfulness and honesty. They called him al-Sadiq (the truthful) and al-Amin (the trustworthy). During his prophetic mission, the Quraysh opposed him but still entrusted him with his goods. On the night of Migration to Madina, he ordered Imam Ali (a.s.) to stay in Makkah to return the things people had entrusted him to the owners.

He was very much concerned about the rights of poor and oppressed people and strive hard to reinstate their rights.

He was completely against slavery, by his mature reason and sound conscience that all human beings are alike in the fundamental nature and talents, but could not change the thousand year old custom. He advised the masters and the slaves to regard one another as brothers. He began convincing them that they were all from the same race and were created from clay! He said, “Whites have no natural privilege over blacks. Slaves are your brother. You should feed them of what you eat, dress them of what you dress. Do not ask them to do things beyond their capacity and help them do things. All your men and all your women are servants of Allah, and He is the True Master of all.” Later on, he paved the way for freeing of the slaves by giving different incentives of granting them a reward.

He was interested in cleanliness of body and clothes from his childhood. He was fond of perfume. He possessed excellent manners and social behavior. He was careful to greet every one first, even the slaves and the children. While being addressed, he did not interrupt the speaker and treated his associates in such a manner that the associate would go away thinking himself to be the dearest person to the Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). He did not speak unnecessarily, spoke slowly and clearly and never used bad language.

He was a perfect model of modesty and shyness. He never got annoyed at anyone's behavior but on occasions, but annoyance might appear on his face. He never used to complain or object. He frequently visited the sick and participated in funeral processions. He did not allow anyone to speak against anyone else except for pleading for justice.

He always overlooked the maltreatment and disrespect shown towards him. He did not hold grudge against anyone and never sought to take revenge. He readily pardoned any mistreatment of his sacred person, but he did not disregard those who violated the limits of the divine law.

He judged the people's actions on the following statement, “Actions are judged according to intentions and everyone will be recompensed according to what he intends.”

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur'an, A Glimpse of the Character Traits of the Holy Prophet by Sayyid Abul Fadl

VICE GERENCY OF IMAM ALI (A.S.)

Surah al-Ta'ha Ayah 24 to Ayah 32 states, Rabishrah Sadri wa Yassir le AmriWahlul Uqdata min Lisani Yafqahu Qauli Wajalli Vaziran min Ahli Haruna Akhi Ashdud behi Azri wa Ashrikhu fi Amri kai Nusabbehaka Kasiran wa Nazkuruka KasiranInnaka kunta bina Basira” “Go to Pharaoh! verily' he has transgressed (the bounds). Musa (a.s.) said, “My Lord! Expand me my breast! And make easy for me my task, and loose a knot from my tongue, (that) they may understand my saying, and appoint for me an assistant from my family, Harun, my brother; strengthen my back by him, and associate him (with me) in my affair.”

Surah Inshirah Ayah 1 to Ayah 8 states, “Alam Nashrahlaka Sadrakwa Wazana Anka Wizrak Allazi Anqaza Zahrak wa Rafa'ana laka Zikrak Fa Inna Ma'al Usre Yusra Inna Ma'al Usre Yusra Fa iza Faraghta Fansab Wa ila R.abbeka Farghab”“(Muhammad), Did We not comfort your heart, relieve you of the burden which have been a heavy weight upon your back (by creating Ali ibne Abu Talib to help you against your atrocious enemies), and grant you an exalted reputation. After every difficulty there is relief. Certainly, after every difficulty comes relief. When you are free (from your farewell pilgrimage), appoint (your successor) and commit yourself to be in the presence of your Lord.”

It is mentioned in many Sunni and Shia books of traditions, specially Allama Suyuti in Tafsir Dure Mansur and Allama Tibrisi in Majma-ul-Bayan, that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), “O Allah! I also pray as my brother Musa prayed that expand my breast, make easy my tasks, appoint a vicegerent from my family, Ali and strengthen my back by him......”

It is said that in response to his prayer Ayah 55 of Surah al-Ma'idah was revealed stating, “Only Allah, His Messenger, and the true believers who are steadfast in prayer and pay alms, while they bow down during prayer, are your guardians.” The Ayah clearly speaks of the excellence of Imam Ali (a.s.). Moreover, the position of Imam Ali (a.s) had already been established on the occasion of “Dawat-e-Zul'Asirah” when the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) proclaimed Imam Ali (a.s.) his assistant, Vizier, and the Kali or the Heir (Atari, Ibne Athir, Abul Fida, and the others)

Allama Bahrani in his book “Ghayat-ul-Maram” narrates from 100 traditions by Sunni writers and by 70 traditions by Shia traditions that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) addressing Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “Are you not happy that you are related to me like Harun was related to Musa except that there will not be any prophet after me?”

To make any fundamental changes in any social order requires physical and spiritual preparedness, supreme thoughts, oratory, Divine Guidance, and trust worthy and brave assistant.

The similarities and commonalities between the above two Ayahs are as under:

1. Expansion of breast: Prophet Musa requested for the expansion but Allah, without request from the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), expanded his breast. The Arabic word “Sharh Sadr” means “Great soul, supreme thoughts, strong intellect, and Divine Assistance”
2. Removal of 'burden' and appointment of assistant: In Surah Ta'ha, Prophet Musa asked for an assistant,his brother Ha'run to strengthen his back and share his assignment. In Surah Inshirah, Allah is reminding the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) that He had removed the burden of spreading and protecting Islam by appointing Imam Ali as 'Vizier' or vicegerent. Prophet Musa asked for a vicegerent as Prophet Harun, while Imam Ali was appointed by Allah.

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur'an Translation (Urdu) – Tafsir-e-Namoona by Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi

The Glorious Qur'an Translation (English) by Ahmed Ali & Ayatollah H.M.M. Pooya Yazdi

HAZRAT DA'TA GANJ BAKHSH (R.A.)

Hazrat Da'ta Ganjbakhsh was born in 5^th A.H. in Hajvir which is now in Afghanistan. He was a great Persian Sufi scholar, writer and poet. He significantly contributed to the spread of Islam in South Asia.

He was a Hasani and Husayni Sayyid. After the Massacre at Karbala by Yazid (l.a.), his forefathers migrated to the Ghazni which is the modern day Afghanistan.

After completing his basic education, he traveled extensively for forty years to acquire knowledge and pay homage to saints. He visited Persia, Iraq, Azerbaijan, Tabaristan, Kerman, Khorasan, and Syria among other cities.

He had compiled a book in Persian called “Kashf-al-Mahjoob”; it means “Revelation of Mystery”It is held in high esteem as the first important treatise on Sufism. The book was translated in other languages. A.R.Nicholson had translated it into English.

He was ordered by his spiritual leader to go to Lahore, Pakistan, and preach Islam. He migrated to Lahore and settled there for the rest of his life. He had constructed a monastery and a mosque. While the mosque was under construction, the ulemas of the city raised huge cries that the mosque was not exactly facing towards “Ka'ba”. When the mosque was completed, he invited the ulama, Sufis, saints and leading citizens and they all came and offered prayer behind him. After the prayer, he addressed the gathering and said, “People have expressed doubts about the alignment of the mosque. I request you to close your eyes and meditate and then decide whether it is correct or not.” Thereafter he meditated and the curtains were removed from the eyes of the people. All of them saw that the sacred Ka'ba was before their eyes and the mosque direction was correctly aligned.

Hazrat Da'ta Ganjbakhsh passed away on Rabi-al-Awwal 20, 465 A.H. and was buried in the same facility where he lived in Lahore.

The great saint of Ajmer, India, Khwaja Moin-ad-Din Chishty (r.a.) visited his grave side and meditated for 40 days at the altar of his grave. He expressed his love and gratitude in the following couplets:

Ganj Bakhsh-e-Faiz-e-Alam, Mazhar-e-Nur-e-Khuda

Na'qissan Ra Pir-e-Kamil, Kaamilaan Ra Rahnuma

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

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

In his book, Kash-al-Mahjoob”, he says, “One who knows the meaning and reality of a thing, they call him Arif', and the one who knows merely the verbal expression and keeps it in his memory without keeping the spiritual reality, they call him 'Alim'”

Sayings of Hazrat Da'ta Ganj Bakhsh (r.a.):

Out of 112 sayings as stated in the article, some of them are reproduced here under:

Implore God to deliver you from the wickedness of your soul.

Whosoever refrains his soul from lust, verily Paradise shall be his abode.

Knowledge without action is no knowledge.

It is the inward glow that makes the Sufi, not the religious dress.

Our religion takes the middle course between the free will and the predestination.

Whoever bows his head with humility, like servant, God will exalt his state in both the worlds.

Lust is our shackle, and sin is our chain.

Men are ever looking to the Ka'ba, and God is ever looking to the heart.

When a man is satisfied with the God's decrees, it is a sign that God is satisfied with him.

Hunger sharpens the intelligence and improves the mind and health.

The fruit of hunger is the contemplation of God.

Sources used: WIKIPEDIA, Ali Hujwiri (Data GanjBakhsh).Sufiwiki, Madni.org/data

LIFE OF BU ALI SINA

Bu Ali Sina was born in the year 370 A.H. at Bukhara and died in the year 428 A.H. at Hamadan, Iran. He was given the title of “Master of Learning and Erudition”. He was a great physician, philosopher, mathematician and chemist. Even in child hood, he had tremendous memory and the capabilities of observing and understanding. In Europe and the West, he was known as “Avicenna”.He had an exceptional eye-sight as he could see a horse rider from 14 miles! He had written a book on the treatment of ailments called “Al-Qanoon” consisting of about 120,000 sentences. To save his life, he had to leave his city in haste and the book was left behind. At the new place, people wanted to read his book. He asked for two copyists and reproduced those 120,000 sentences from his excellent memory. Later, when the original book was retrieved and compared to the new book, it was observed that it was exactly the same!

Bu Ali Sina had exceptional memory. While he was still a young man, he was staying with his father. His father was transferred to Bukhara and the governor of Bukhara fell seriously ill. All top physicians of the town tried to treat him but failed. Bu Ali Sina offered to treat the governor and he was cured by his treatment. The governor was very pleased and wanted to reward him. Bu Ali Sina wanted the access to his library which was accepted. In those days books were in the form of manuscripts and required very careful handling. Accidentally the library caught fire and all the books were burnt out. Bu Ali Sina offered to dictate the contents of all the books but some of his enemies blamed him for the fire and the opportunity was denied to him.

He had to move from city to city as Mahmud Ghaznavi was a staunch enemy of Shias of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)

Though his family was Isma'ili but he did not subscribe to their faith. He converted to the Shia faith and as soon as he adopted the path of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), he left every social evil, distributed his wealth to the poor and became a true follower of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) and a practicing Shia.

Two persons saw the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) in their dreams. Shaikh Mujaddadeen Baghdadi, a Sunni scholar saw the Messenger of Allah in his dream and asked about Bu Ali Sina, before his convertion to Shia faith. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said that Bu Ali Sina was seeking Allah without accessing him (Prophet) hence he will go to Hell.

Shaikh Baha'i in his “Kashkool” narrates that a faithful used to pass by the grave of Bu Ali Sina in Hamadan and used to pray for the dead buried in the graveyard but did not pray for Bu Ali Sina thinking that he was not on the “Right Path” Once, the man saw the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) in his dream and Bu Ali Sina was sitting near the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). On inquiry, as to how Bu Ali Sina was close to him, he (s.a.w.a.s.) replied, “O Person! Despite your ignorance you know that the faith of the persons following only the Six Imams is not right. Then how is it possible that the erudite, learned Bu Ali Sina would not recognize the “True Faith”?”

Mahmud Ghaznavi also learned that he was also a follower of Ahlu Bayt (a.s.). But Bu Ali Sina was the least worried and was ready to sacrifice his life for the love of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.).

While in Isfahan, Bu Ali Sina witnessed that a small child of 4 years asking an iron-smith for some embers of burning coal for his mother. When the iron-smith asked if he had any container to carry the hot burning coal, the child picked up some sand and carried the red hot coal. Bu Ali Sina was impressed by his intelligence and made him his disciple. His name was Bahman Yar.

There is a law of nature that when a person thinks that he is perfect in his skills, it shatters him and his pride is dashed on the ground. Once prophet Musa had such a thought and he was sent to Hazrat Khizr to experience what the knowledge was. Similar thoughts came in Bu Ali Sina's mind. But he heard that there was a physician in that small town who would tell what the patients had eaten by putting his hand on the pulse of the patient. He was curious to visit him. He went to that physician and sat the whole day with him. In the evening he inquired of the physician about the secret. He replied that the people in the town were very clumsy. Whenever they ate, they spilled the particles of the food on their clothes and with his keen observation in most cases, he would be able tell as to what they had eaten!

Sources: Islamic-Laws.com, Lectures of Maulana Sadiq Hasan, muslimphilosophy.com

WHO ARE THE TRUTHFUL ONES

Surah al-Taubah Ayah 119 states, “Believers, have fear of Allah and always be friend with the truthful Ones.” In the world, it is noticed that opposite and contrast exist in things like day and night, hot and cold, truthful and liars etc. Allah has given examples of truthfulness in the Glorious Qur'an as detailed below:

Surah al-Imran Ayah 61 states, “If any one disputes after knowledge has come to you, say, let us summon our sons and you summon your sons, and we summon our women and you summon your women, and we summon our selves and you summon your selves and then let us invoke and lay the curse of Allah on the liars.”

After the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) brought Imam Ali (a.s.), Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Husayn (a.s.) in the field to Curse the “Liars”, the priests of Najran declined to go ahead with Mubahela thereby accepting that the “Panjetan” were truthful. Consequently, whoever confronts these truthful ones in future cannot be truthful!

Surah al-Hujurat Ayah 15 which states, “The believers are those who believe in Allah and His Messenger, who did not change their belief into doubt, and who strive hard for the cause of Allah with their properties and righteousness persons. They are the truthful ones.”

Surah al-Hashr Ayah 8 states, “The poor immigrants who were deprived of their homes and property, who seek favors and pleasures from Allah, and who help Him and his Messenger will also have a share in the said property. These people are the truthful ones.”

Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 177 which says, “It is not righteous that you turn your faces towards the East and the West, righteousness is rather one who believes in Allah and the Last Day and the angels and the Book, and apostles, and gives his wealth out love for Him to the kindred and the orphans and the poor and the wayfarer and the needy and for those in And established prayer ; And those who fulfill their promise when they make a promise and the patient ones in distress and affliction and in the time of war these are they who are Truthful and these they who are pious.”

All the traits of the righteous ones in this Ayah are distinctly found in the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.). The Muslim world as a whole knows and acknowledge that Imam Ali (a.s.) had earned the title of Mazharul Aja'ib i.e. the Manifestation of Wonders.

The Ayah starts with the direction to have fear of Allah and become “Muttaqi”. Imam Ali (a.s.) is the Commander of the faithful or “Imam -al-Muttaqeen”

Saleem bin Qays narrates in Tafsir Burhan volume 2 page 170, “Can you swear on Allah and know that when the Ayah 119 of Surah al-Tauba was revealed, then Salman inquired from the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) if this Ayah addressed favoring a common man, to which he (s.a.w.a.s.) replied, “It was addressed to all believers but the word “Truthful Ones” is specifically reserved for my brother Ali and his pure vicegerents (Imams) till the Day of Judgment.”

It is clear that the truthful ones must be infallible as Allah will never order the believers to be with fallible committing sins and errors!

Moreover, the Ayah confirms that as long as Islam and the Glorious Qur'an is present in the world, there must be an Infallible Truthful Imam present either visible or invisible like Imam Mahdi (a.s.).

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur'an (English translation) by Ayatollah Agha H.M.M. Pooya Yazdi

The Glorious Qur'an – Tfsir-e-Namoona (Urdu Translation) by Ayatollah Nasir Makrem Shirazi

SAYINGS OF THE KING OF MARTYRS IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.)

Wisdom never attains perfection except by following the truth (obeying the commandments of Allah).

One who loves you prevents you from all evils, while your enemy persuades you to commit wrong or evil.

Act in this world like a person who knows that you will definitely be rewarded for good deeds and punished for sins and crimes.

One who annoys God to please people, God leaves him to the people.

Some people worship God coveting His rewards. This is the worship of merchants. Some people worship God fearing His punishments. This is worship of slaves. Some people worship God thanking His Blessings. This is the worship of free superior persons.

What is poverty? Imam replied, “Avarice and despair.”

What is richness? Imam replied, “To be happy with what suffices you and to have few desires.”

One who accepts your gifts has really helped you in attaining generosity.

One who removes troubles from a believer, God expels troubles from him in this world and in the Hereafter.

Do not seek help from any person except the one who is religious, or generous, or of noble parentage.

Compete for virtuous deeds and hasten to seize opportunities for good deeds.

The most forgiving person is the one who forgives in spite of his ability to punish.

If you hear someone back-biting the people, try to be unfamiliar to him.

Do not speak about your brother (in faith) behind his back except what you like to be spoken about you behind your back.

Salaam has seventy virtues, sixty nine of which are for the one who is first to greet.

Do not allow any one to enter or to speak to you if he does not greet you.

A miser behaves miserly even in greeting salaam to others.

What has he obtained who lost You O' God? And what has he lost who found You?

People are slave of this world and their religion is just like saliva or taste on the tongue. They revolve around religion as long as their material needs are well provided; but when they face difficulties, tests and trials, very few people prove to be stead-fast.

A person came to Imam Husayn (a.s.) and said, “I am a sinner and can not control myself. Please bless me with your admonition to me.”The Imam replied, “Don't eat any food created by God and commit whatever sin you like. Get out of God's realm (universe) and commit what ever sin you like. Find a place where God cannot see you and commit what ever sin you like. When the Angel of Death comes to withdraw soul from your body, make him flee from you and commit what ever sin you like.”

Beware of oppressing a person , who finds no one to revenge against you except God, the Mighty and Majestic.

No one should feel secured on the Day of Resurrection except those who feared God in this world. (Biharul Anwar volume 44 page 192)

One who reveals your faults to you like a mirror is your true friend, and one who flatters you and covers up your fault is your enemy. (Biaharul Anwar volume 78 page 128)

Associating with corrupt people makes you subject to suspicion. Hastiness is foolishness .The most generous person is the one who offers help to those who do not expect him to help. Tolerance is man's ornament, keeping promises is a sign of nobility, and bonding with others is a grace. (Biharul Anwar volume 78 p. 121-122)

Never trust any body except those who fear God. (Balagat-ul-Husayn page 292)

A person asked, “How can we know God?”Imam replied, “By knowing and obeying the Imam of your time.”

(Biharul Anwar volume 5 page 312”

Source used: imamreza.net, sibtayn.com

THE MIRACLES OF THE SACRED HEAD OF IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.)

After the massacre at Karbala of the dearest grandson of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), the eighteen members of Bani Hashim, his brave companions, the orphans and the widows and the Infallible Imam Zayn al-Abidin (a.s.) who was chained down and they were made to sit on camels without seats and the sacred daughters of the Prophet traveled from Karbala to Kufa. On the way the severed head of the King of Martyrs Imam Husayn (a.s.) was reciting the Surah al-Kahf from beginning to Ayah 13.

Ibne Wakida says that he was doubtful whether it was, indeed, the voice of Imam Husayn (a.s.), whereupon, the head stopped the recitation and turned towards him and said: “O son of Wakida! Do you not know that we, the Imams, are living with our Lord receiving our sustenance.” (Sharah Qasidat Abi Firas page 148)

Salama ibne Kahil heard the Imam reciting following Ayah from the top of the spear, Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 137: “Allah is a sufficient defender for you against them, and He is All-Hearing and All-Knowing.” (S. Kadim al-Rashti's Asrar al-Shahada page 488)

Al-Minhal ibn Amr has said, “I saw al-Husain's head was reciting Surah Al-Kahf and when it came to Ayah 9 saying, “Or did you reckon the fellows of the Cave and the Inscription among our amazing Signs.”the head continued in an articulate tongue saying, “More amazing than the fellows of the Cave is killing me and thus transporting me.” (Al-Khasa'is volume 2 page 127 of Al-Suyuti)

Then the head recited Ayah 24 of Surah Noah which says: “They have misled many and the unjust will achieve nothing but more error.” This was heard by the old companion of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), Zayd bin Arqam.

The head was hung on a tree. People assembled around it looking at the dazzling light that emanated from it as it recited the Ayah 227 of Surah Al-Shu'ara': “The unjust will soon know how terrible their end will be.” (Ibn Shahr Ashub volume 2 page 188)

It is reported by Shia and Sunni books that on way from Kufa to Damascus, the bearers of the sacred head of Imam Husayn (a.s.) stopped at the first place, started drinking wine and played with the head. When suddenly a hand appeared from the wall holding an iron pen, and wrote down in blood the following lines : “The nation which has killed Husayn, still hopes that on the day of Qiyamah his grandfather shall intercede for them?” Seeing this they were terrified and left that place.

During the journey to Damscus, the caravan stopped at a monastery. During the night, the monk saw that a wave of light emanated from the sacred head of Imam Husayn (a.s.) and reaching the heavens. He looked at them from above the monastery and asked: “Who are you?”They replied, “We are the associates of Ibne Ziyad”He asked, “Whose head is this?”and they replied, “It is of Husayn, the son of Ali ibne Abi Talib (a.s.) and Fatemah (s.a.), the daughter of the Prophet of Allah (s.a.w.a.s.)”. He asked, “You mean your Prophet?”and they replied in the affirmative. Hearing this he said, “You are among the worst of men. If Maseeh (Prophet I'sa) would have a son, we would have placed him on our eyes (we would have honored him greatly).”

He continued, “Do you desire anything, and could do me a favor?” They asked as to what was it, and he replied, “I have ten thousand Ashrafi (golden coins) with me, you may take it and give me the head. Let it remain with me until the dawn, and when you proceed further, take it back from me.”They gave him the head and he gave them the golden coins.

The monk washed the head, perfumed it and kept it on his lap and wept profusely until the dawn. In the morning he said, “O' head! I do not have any authority upon anything except myself. I bear witness that there is no Deity except Allah and that your Grandfather is the Prophet of Allah. You bear witness that I am your friend and a slave.” Then he renounced the monastery and all that was therein, and entered the ranks of the slaves of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)

Sources: The Glorious Qur'an, Nafs-al-Mahmum by Shaikh Abbas Qummi

Maqtal al-Husayn by Abdal Razzaq al-Muqarram translated by Yasin T. Jibouri

THE FIRST AND THE FOREMOST ONES

Whenever a new revolutionary movement starts, the people who respond to the call are not the same in any way with those who join after the movement is firmly anchored and the original comrades had already born the onslaught of criticism, victimization, oppression etc.

Similarly, when the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) introduced Islam to his near ones, Sayyida Khadija (s.a.) and the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) were the only ones who accepted and practiced Islam.

There are two Ayahs in the Glorious Qur'an relating to this; Surah al-Tawbah Ayah 100 which reads: “Allah is well pleased with the foremost ones of those who left their homes for the cause of Allah, those who helped them after their arrival in Madinah, and those who nobly followed these two groups. He has prepared gardens for them wherein streams flow and wherein they will live forever. This certainly is the supreme triumph.”

Surah al-W'aqia Ayah 10 which says : “The foremost ones (in faith and virtues) – the foremost ones in receiving their reward.”

In the Sunni and Shia books, it is written that the first in Islamic history were three persons i.e. Hizqeel of Ale Fir'aun, Habib Najjar of the time of Prophet Ie'sa and Imam Ali and he was superior to the other two.

The famous writers A'lousi, Al-Suyuti and Hakim of Mustadrak maintained that Imam Ali (a.s.) was the first Muslim.

Some of the writers in order to minimize the bravery and superiority of Imam Ali (a.s.) say that although he was the first Muslim but he was a child.

There was a drought in Makkah and Hazrat Abu Talib had six children. Hence, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.)visited Hazart Abu Talib (a.s.) and offered to raise Imam Ali (a.s.). The Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) describes his early life in Nahjul Balagha Sermon 190: “He used to press me to his chest and lay me beside him, touch his body with mine and make me smell his smell. He used to chew a thing and then feed me with it. From the time of weaning Allah had put a great angel with him to take him along the path of high character and good behavior throughout day and night, while I used to follow him like a young camel following in the foot print of its mother. In those days Islam did not exist in any house except that of the Prophet of Allah and Khadija while I was the third after these two. I used to see and watch the effulgence of divine revelation and message, and smelt the scent of Prophet hood. When the revelation descended on the Prophet of Allah (s.a.) I heard the moan of Satan. I said, O 'Prophet of Allah, what is this moan? And he replied, “This is Satan who lost all hope of being worshiped. O' Ali you see all that I see and you hear all that I hear, except that you are not a Prophet, but you are a vicegerent and you are surely on (the path of) virtue.”

Later, Is'haque commented to Abbasid Caliph Ma'moun “Imam Ali was the first to accept Islam but he was a boy” Ma'moun said “Did Allah asked Ali to accept Islam?” Is'haque “The Prophet asked him” Ma'moun “Prophet did not do any thing except what Allah desires, hence Allah asked the Prophet to ask Ali to accept Islam, hence Allah knew that Ali understands what he is accepting.”

The “foremost ones” were Imam Ali (as.), Sayyida Khadija (s.a.), Umme Ayman, Abu Zar Ghiffari, Ammar-e-Yasir and his parents etc.

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur'an, Tafsir-e-Namoona, Lectures by Ammar Nakshwani

THE AMAZING QUR'AN

The last revelation of Allah -The Glorious Qur'an- sent to the last Messenger (s.a.w.a.s) for the guidance of humanity was not only respected and appreciated by the Muslims but also some of the followers of the last scriptures. It is a testimony to the fact that the Glorious Qur'an is beyond time and place but guidance for the humanity till the last day of this universe.

One such individual is Mr. Gary Miller, a Christian mathematician from Canada. He narrates that some years ago, a merchant marine came to him. He had read the Glorious Qur'an completely and asked about Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) if he was in any way related to the sea. When he was told that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) lived in desert. The man was so impressed that he immediately embraced Islam. He explained that the storm described in Surah al-Nur Ayah 40 assumes that the person (s.a.w.a.s.) must have himself experienced a storm.

Surah al-Nur Ayah 40 states: “Or they (the deeds of the unbelievers) are like the darkness of a deep, stormy sea with layers of giant waves, covered by dark clouds. It is darkness upon darkness whereby even one stretches out his hands he could not see them. One can have no light unless Allah gave him light.”

Mr. Gary Miller further says: Many centuries before the onset of Muhammad's prophet hood, there was a well-known theory of atomism advanced by the Greek philosopher, Democritus. He and the people who came after him assumed that matter consists of tiny, indestructible, indivisible particles called atoms. The Arabic word “Dharrah” commonly referred to the smallest particle known to man. Now, the modern science that this smallest unit of matter can be split into its component parts. This is the development of last century; yet interestingly enough, this information had already been documented in the Quran (Surah Saba, 34:3): “He (Allah) is aware of an atom's weight in the heavens and on the earth and even anything smaller than that....”

Undoubtedly, fourteen centuries ago, that statement would have looked unusual, even to an Arab. For him, the Dharrah was the smallest thing there was. Indeed, this is proof, that the Quran is not outdated.

Source:

The Amazing Quran by Dr. Gary Miller (www,the islamic bulletin.com)

THE PROTECTOR OF THE NOBLE MESSENGER (S.A.W.A.S.) - HAZRAT ABU TALIB (A.S.)

Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) was the great protector of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and the savior of Islam. It is stated that there must be a Hujjah at all time for the guidance, hence there were twelve guides and protectors during the period of Prophet Ie’sa and the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) was the last of that chain. He was called “Hanif” Reciting the kalmah is required if and when one is converting to Islam.

Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) and Hazrat Abdullah (a.s.), the father of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) were born from one mother and the father being Hazrat Abdul Muttalib (a.s.). Hence the promised leadership (Imamate) from the lineage of Hazrat Isma’il (a.s.) continued through these just followers of Ibra’himi faith. Hazrat Abdul Muttalib (a.s.)’s faith was further strengthened when the forces of Abraha attacked the Ka’bah and on his prayers, Allah destroyed the enemy as detailed in Surah al-Feel of the Glorious Qur’an.

There is a famous tradition when the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “I and the man who protects an orphan will be in Paradise together (and he pointed his two fingers jointly)” He further said: “Whoever tapped the head of an orphan, there will be light for every hair he touches on the Day of Judgment.” This should be an eye-opener for those who cast doubts about the faith of Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.)

Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) performed the marriage ceremony (Nikah) of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and said: “I am the one who believes in the Lord of Ibra’him, Is’haq and Dawood.” It is the same as the Shahada. Imam Zain al-Abidin said: “I wonder why people doubt of Abu Talib when a woman cannot continue in her matrimonial alliance with a non-Muslim after she had embraced Islam and Fatima bint Asad was among those women.” Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) said: “The faith of Abu Talib was superior to the faith of many people and Ali, the Commander of the Faithful ordered that Hajj should be performed on his behalf.” (Sharah Nahjul Balagha v. 14 page 76) Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “Abu Talib was like the People of Cave. They had faith in their hearts. For this reason they will be reward twice! (Usul Kafi page 244)

Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) raised exemplary children like the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) and Hazrat Ja’far-e-Tayyiar. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “None resembles me like Ja’far because Allah loves Ja’far for his four qualities during the period of Ja’hiliya which are; when everybody lied he never lied, when everybody drink alcohol he never drank, when everybody committed adultery he never committed adultery, when everybody did idol-worshipping he did not worship idols. Can the father who raised such gems of Muslims be an unbeliever? Moreover, his poetry clearly demonstrates his monotheistic faith.

The opponents of Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s) refer two Ayahs of the Glorious Qur’an to allege his non-believing. They refer Surah al-An’am Ayah 26 which says: “They keep away from the faith and forbid others to accept it. They destroy no one except themselves, yet they do not realize it.” There is no record in history that Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) stopped anyone from Islam. The famous Zamakshary in his Book “Kashshaf” said that this Ayah was revealed about a man called Nuzur who wanted to convert to Islam while Waleed ibn Muhgeera the father of Khalid bin Walled and Abu Sufiyan the father of Muawiya would discourage him to become a Muslim. Hence Allah condemned Waleed and Abu Sufiyan.The next Ayah is 113 Surah al-Tawbah which say: “After it was made clear that the pagans are to be dwellers of Hell, the Prophet and the believers should not have sought forgiveness from Allah for them even though they may have been relatives.” Surah al-Tawbah was the last Surah revealed in Madinah 13 years after Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) death in Makkah. Barar bin Ma’oon died in Madinah and the Noble Messenger recited the Sala’t al Mayyat for him.

It was a planned conspiracy of the Banu Abbas against the family of Hazrat Abu Talib. Banu Abbas were the descendants of Abbas bin Abdul Muttalib who was born of a slave woman. They became jealous that the family of Hazrat Abu Talib had a conspicuous status; hence they deployed resources to downgrade the family of Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) and falsely accused him of being an unbeliever. The major books of Muslims like Sahih Bokhari, Sahih Muslm, and Nisai’ were compiled in Banu Abbas time. In reply to a question about his father, Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “Allah has given me the honor of splitting the Heaven and the Hell and I know where my father will go. If my father wants to do Shafa’h for anyone, Allah will do it. On the Day of Judgment, my father will exceed the light of everyone except the Panjetan.”

Ibn Abil Hadid-e-Mu’tezili said: “If Abu Talib and his son (Ali) had not been there, the religion (Islam) would not have been successful. He supported and protected Muhammad in Makkah, and his son (Ali) dived in the whirlpool of death in Yathrib for him.”

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur’an, The Message by Ayatollah Ja’far Subhani, Lectures of Ammar Nakshwani

AMR BIL MA'ROOF AND NAHI ANIL MUNKAR

The root word of “Ma’roof” is “Urf” comprising of three Arabic words “Ain” “Ra’” and “Fa’”. Urf means identify. Similarly, Munkar means which is not identified.

This obligation had been referred to in the Glorious Qur’an:

Surah Ale-Imran Ayah 104 as: “Let there be a group among you who will invite others to do good deeds, command them to obey the Law, and prohibit them from committing sins. These people will have eternal happiness.”

Surah Ale-Imran Ayah 110“You are the best nation that ever existed among humanity, as long as you command people to do good, prohibit them from evil, and believe in Allah.”

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

Surah Luqman Ayah 17: “My son be steadfast in prayer. Make others do good. Prevent them from doing evil.”

Surah Al-Asr: “(I swear) by the time, human beings are doomed to suffer loss (and fail), except the righteously striving believers who exhort each other to truthful purposes and to patience.”

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “The world is like a ship and mankind its passengers. The welfare of all depends upon the safe conduct of each. If anyone is found making a hole in the side of the ship, he must be stopped. He who does ‘amr bil ma’roof and nahi anil munkar’ is the vicegerent on the earth of Allah, His Messenger and the Book.”

The Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “All virtuous deeds including struggle in the path of Allah in comparison to amr bil ma’roof and nahi anil munkar are like spitting in the sea!”

The Infallible Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) said: “Amr bil ma’roof and nahi anil munkar are the most important obligations because upon them depends the performance of all other obligations. If amr bil ma’roof and nahi anil munkar are done, the earth will be a safe place, enemies will be subdued and all other affairs are discharged satisfactorily.”

These obligations are in two phases; in the first phase everyone is responsible to observe others and in the second phase it is the collective responsibility of a group to be assigned for this task, which is the “Wajib-e-Kifa’I”  

There are three requirements for these obligations:

1.       The person himself should have complete knowledge of what is good and what is bad.

2.       The person performing these obligations believes that the other person will listen and follow his advice.

3.       The person performing these obligations is satisfied that by his efforts, no personal or financial suffering is caused to any third party.

These obligations may be performed orally with a good intention at a reasonable occasion by persuading in a very polite manner. Surah Al-Nahl Ayah 125: “Call to the path of your Lord through wisdom and good advice and argue with them in the best manner.”Similarly, Surah Ale Imran Ayah 159:”Only through the divine mercy have you (Muhammad) been able to deal with your followers so gently. If you had been stern and hard hearted, they would all have deserted you a long time ago.”

The King of Martyrs, the Infallible Imam Husayn (a.s.) had recorded his will and gave it to his brother Hazrat Muhammad Hanafiya which states: “I did not revolt for the cause of evil tyranny or corruption, but to reform my grandfather‘s nation. I want to enjoin the good and denounce evil (amr bil ma’roof and nahi anil munkar), and take the course of my father (Imam Ali) and grandfather (the Noble Messenger s.a.w.a.s.)

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur’an (Urdu translation) – Tafsir –e-Namoona  by Ayatollah Naser Makarim Shirazi

Tawzeeh-ul-Masa’il by Ayatollah Ruhullah Khomeini & Ayatollah Gul Pa’igani (al-islam.org/Aalim Network)

THE NOBLE MESSENGER (S.A.W.A.S.), HIS PROGENY AND THE GLORIOUS QUR'AN

Sayings of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.):

“The one who recites the Qur’an and the one, who listens to it, have an equal share in the reward”

                                                                                        (Mustadrak ul Wasa’il volume 1 page 193)

“The best among you is the one who learns the Qur’an and then teaches it to others.”

                                                                  (Al-Amali of Shaikh Tusi volume 1 page 5)

“These hearts rust just as iron rusts; and indeed they are polished through the recitation of the Qur’an”

                                                                                                                   (Irshad al-Qulub page 78)

“Nothing is harder for Shaytan to bear than a person who recites the Qur’an by looking at the pages (of the Qur’an)”                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        (Thawab-ul-Amal page 231)

“One who recites ten Ayahs of the Qur’an every night will not be counted among the negligent ones (Ghafilin); and one who recites fifty Ayahs of the Qur’an will be written as those who remember Allah (Dhakirin); and one who recites one hundred Ayahs will be written down as the obedient and worshipper of Allah (Qanitin)”

                                                                                                                (Thawab-ul- Amal page 232)

“I advise you to recite the Qur’an and remember Allah, for surely the Qur’an will remember you (do your dhikr) in the Heavens and it will be a Divine Light (nur) for you on the Earth.”

                                                                                                                              (Al-Khisal page 525)

“Whoever recites the first four Ayahs of Sura Al-Baqarah, Ayatul Kursi (Ayahs 255 to 257 upto Hum Fiha Khaledun), and the last three Ayahs of the same Sura, will not see any bad or sorrow in his life or his wealth; Shaytan will not come near him; and he will not forget the Qur’an”

                                                                                                                 (Thawab-ul-A’mal page 234)

“Surely this Qur’an is the rope of Allah, and a manifest Light (Nur), and a beneficial cure. Therefore, busy yourselves with its recitation, for Allah-the Mighty and Glorious- grants the reward of ten good deeds for very letter recited.”

                                                                                                     (Bihar-ul-Anwar volume 92 page 19)

Sayings of the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.):

“Learn the Qur’an for it is the best of narrations, and understand it thoroughly for it is the best blossoming of the hearts"                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          (Nahjul Balagha Sermon 110)

“Recite the Qur’an and seek assistance from it for surely Allah will not punish one who has memorized it.”                                                                                                                                   (Bihar-ul-Anwar volume 92 page 19)

Sayings of the Infallible Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.):

“Three things will complain to Allah: A deserted Masjid in which the people of the town did not recite salaat; an Alim who was among the ignorant ones (who did not make use of him); and the Qur’an which was not read and was left for dust to collect on it.”

                                                                                                               (Usul Kafi volume 2 page 613)

“Surely the Qur’an is not to be read in a rush or very quickly but recited slow and measured portions. Whenever you reach an Ayah which talks about Heaven, then stop and ask from Allah for the bounties of Heavens. And whenever you reach an Ayah which speaks about Hell, then stop and seek protection from Allah from Hell Fire (and the punishment)”

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   (Usul Kafi volume 3 page 301)