NOBLE MESSENGER (S.A.W.A.S.) WELCOMING RAMAZA'AN

Sayyid Ibne Ta’us narrated in his book “Iqbal”, quoting the Infallible Imam Ali al-Reza (a.s.), who heard from his father, who quoted from the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.), who said:

“One day, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) delivered the following Sermon about the Holy month of Ramazaan: “O’ People! The month of Allah with Blessing, Mercy and Pardon has come to you, a month which is the best month among all months before Allah; its days are the best days; its nights are the best nights and its hours are the best hours. It is the month in which you have been invited by Allah for a feast, and has been selected as the recipient of His special favor. Your breathing merits the reward of praise while your sleeping in this month earns the reward of worship. In this month your deeds are accepted and prayers are granted.

Therefore with true intention and pure hearts, beseech Allah to bestow upon you His special favors to be able to observe fasting and recite the Glorious Qur’an. Because the most unfortunate and wretched one is the one who remains deprived from Allah’s pardon during this great month. With your thirst and hunger remind yourself about the thirst and hunger of the Day of Judgment; pay charity to poor and destitute people, pay respect to elders; be kind towards youngsters, and observe the bonds of relationship with your kith and kin.

Watch your tongue, cover your eyes from seeing forbidden objects and prevent your ears from hearing forbidden affairs. Be kind to the orphans of the people so that the others are kind to your orphans. Repent for your sins and at the time of prayer, raise your hands upwards, because these hours are the best hours because Allah looks towards mankind with Mercy and Compassion. Their prayers are granted, their cries are heard. Whatever they ask is bestowed upon them and their prayers are fulfilled.

O’ people your selves are mortgaged against your deeds and therefore, by means of repentance make yourself free. Your back has become heavy due to sins; by prolongation of prostration make yourself light-burdened. Know that Allah has taken the oath of His Majesty and Splendor that He will not punish those who offer prayers and bow down in prostration and on the Day of Judgment will not scare them from Hell Fire.

O’ people! Whoever in this month will make arrangements for the fast-breaking (iftar) of a believer, will be bestowed upon the reward equal to freeing of a slave and all of his past sins shall be pardoned.” He was asked: “O Prophet of Allah! But all of us are not in a position to arrange for the fast-breaking of a fast observer.” The Prophet replied: ‘Protect yourself from Hell Fire and offer fast-breaking even if it happens to be a date with a glass of sherbet.”

“O’ people whoever makes his conduct better in this month, on the Day of Judgment will be bestowed upon the permit for crossing over the “Sira’t”. Whoever opens the knots of difficulties of people’s affairs in this month, Allah on the Day of Judgment will make the accounting of his deeds easier.

Whoever makes people immune from his mischief, Allah on the Day of Judgment will make him immune from His Wrath. Whoever treats an orphan with respect, on the Day of Judgment Allah will treat him with honor. Whoever takes care to strengthen the family bonds with relatives, Allah will extend His Blessings upon him on the Day of Judgment, and whoever will cut-off his family ties, Allah too will deprive him from His Blessings on the Day of Judgment.

Whoever offers supererogatory prayers in this month, Allah will register for him immunity from the Fire. Whoever performs a compulsory deed in this month, will be bestowed the reward of seventy compulsory deeds performed in other months. Whoever offers a lot of salutations (Salawa’at) upon me in this month, on the Day of Judgment, Allah will make his balance of righteous deeds heavier. Whoever recites one single Ayah of the Glorious Qur’an this month will be bestowed the reward of finishing the entire Qur’an in other months.

O’ people! The gates of Paradise are opened in this month; beseech Allah that it should not be closed upon you. The doors of Hell are closed, and ask Allah that they are not opened upon you. The devils are chained in this month, ask Allah not to allow them to take over your control.

Imam Ali (a.s.) said: O’ Messenger of Allah, which one is the best deed in this month? The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) replied: “O’ Abul Hasan! The most supreme deed in this month is the piety and renunciation of divine forbidden acts.”

Reference:

Etiquette of the Holy month of Ramazaan                    by Haj Mirza Javad Agha Maliki Tabrizi (r.a.) 

REWARD OF LOVE FOR THE BELIEVERS DOING GOOD DEEDS

Surah Maryam Ayah 96: “Innal Lazeena A’amanu wa AmelusSaleha’ate Sa’yajal lahur Rahmana Wudda” translated as: “Verily those who believe and do righteous deeds, soon the Beneficent Allah will appoint love for them.”

Faith and righteous deeds has a reflection as vast as the world of existence, and the ray of love emerged from it can cover the whole expansion of creation. Allah, the Pure Essence, loves such believing people. They are beloved with all those who are in the skies. This affection will brighten the hearts of men who are on the earth.

The one who only loves Allah will be heartily loved by all people with the help of Allah. Similarly, one who remembers Allah, Allah will have His favors showered upon him as mentioned in Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 152 which reads: “therefore, remember Me and I shall remember you. Thank Me and do not hide the truth about Me.”

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “When Allah loves one of His servants, He says to His Angel Jibra’eel , that He loves so and so, and asks him to love that person. Jibra’eel loves him and then he calls in the skies that Allah loves so and so, then do love him; and thereafter all those in the skies love him. Then reflection of this love is reflected on the earth.”

Similarly, Allah’s hatred is announced in the skies and on the earth.

The above-mentioned tradition is recorded in many books of traditions especially in “The Commentary Fi-Zalal “ volume 5 page 454 which had been adopted from the major books of traditions like Sahih Muslim, Sahih Bukhari and the book of Ahmad ibne Hambal.

Besides the Shiah books, the other books of traditions and commentary reports that this Ayah was revealed favoring the Infallible Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) notably among them are the following:

                Zamakhshar in Kashaf, Sebtayn al-Jauzi in Tathkira, Ganji Shafi’I, Qurtabi in his                       famous book,  M’ujab -ud-Din Tabari in Zakha’ir-ul-Uqba, Neyshaburi in his well-                     known commentary book, Ibne Sabbaq Maliki in Fusul-ul-Muhimmah , Suyuti in                        Durr-ul-Manthur , Heythami in Sawa’igh-ul-Muhragha, and A’lusi in Rouh-al-Ma’ani

Some of such traditions are:

Tha’alabi in his book narrates from Bara’ ibne Azib: “The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) told Ali (a.s.) : “Say: O’ Allah! Appoint a covenant for me with yourself, and set my love in the hearts of the believers.” Then this Ayah was revealed. This statement exactly or with minor difference was cited in many other books.

In many Islamic sources, it has been narrated by Ibne Abbas, that the above-mentioned Ayah was revealed in regard to Ali ibne Abi Talib (a.s.) ,which means that Allah appoints his love in the hearts of the believers.(Ihghlaq-ul Hagh 3:83)

Muhammad ibne Hanafiya said: “There is no faithful believer but here is love of Ali and his AhlalBayt in his heart.” (Ihghlaq-ul-Hugh volume 3 page 83 to 86)

The Infallible Imam Ali (a.s.) said: “Even if I strike the nose of a believer with this, my sword, for hating me, he will not hate me, and even if I pile all the wealth of the world before a hypocrite in order that he loves me, he will not love me. This is because it is verdict pronounced by the tongue of the unschooled Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) as he said: ‘O’ Ali!  A believer will never hate you and a hypocrite will never love you.”(Nahjul Balagha saying 45, Rauh-ul-Ma’ani v 16 page 130, Maj’ma-ul-Bayan volume 6 page 533)

In al-Kafi volume 1 page 131 and Tafsir-e-Furat page 247, the Infallible Imam Ja’afar as-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “The love of Amir al-Momineen Ali (a.s.) is a reward that Allah gives to the believers who has righteous deeds .”

GREATER SINS

What is sin? Any act of omission or commission which is against the commands of Allah as detailed in the Holy Qur’an and elaborately discussed by the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). In one sentence, Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) said “Submit to the command of Allah and do not go near the Prohibited”. Some sins are Greater and others are smaller in gravity. All those acts which brings in the wrath of Allah and Hell fire is prescribed are Greater Sins. Their number is more than forty. To refrain from committing sins is more important than performing good deeds. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said “There is an angel who raises the call every night saying ‘whoever engages in the prohibited acts, Allah does not accept any of his deeds, obligatory or recommended’”.

In other words, good deeds are accepted only if accompanied by piety.

Sin is a barrier to the acceptance of invocation (duaa). Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) said “Allah communicated to prophet Musa saying ‘My slave cannot achieve nearness to Me without three things which I like: Practice piety in this world, abstain from sins and cry out of fear (of Me)’. Abstaining from Greater Sins causes the smaller Sins to be overlooked as mentioned in Sura al-Nisa Ayah 31 “If you shun the Greater Sins which are forbidden, we will do away with your Smaller Sins and cause you to enter an honorable place”

A person who commits a Greater Sin and does not repent for it is a transgressor. After death he is liable for Divine punishment. By the Grace of Allah he may yet get salvation by the intercession (Shafa’ah) of Muhammad (s.a.w.a.s.) and his Progeny (a.s.). The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s) said “My intercession is especially for sinful ones among my followers. But those who abstain from Greater Sins, for them there is no accounting (of deeds)”

However, intercession should not prompt one to commit sins.

Imam Muhammad Taqi (a.s.) relates from Commander of the Faithful (a.s.) as “Death occurs to a person in one of three ways: He is given the good news of everlasting bounties or informed of the never ending retribution or he remains in a perpetual state of terror or fear. Then, act (rightly) and obey the commandments of Allah. Do not consider the Divine punishment to be trifle and certainly there are such people who will not be able to receive our intercession till after 300,000 years”. Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) said “All of you (shias) shall enter Paradise by the intercession of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) or his successors on the Day of Judgment. But, by Allah I fear for you for the Barzakh.” Barzakh is the grave. Its duration commences from the time of death to the Day of Judgment.

Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq (a.s.) said “Our intercession is not for those who consider the Prayers (Namaaz) as unimportant.”

It happens, some times, that due to excessive involvement in sins and delay in repentance, faith in religion is erased from the heart. There is no intercession for such people. Sura al-Rome Ayah 10 “ Then evil was the end of those who did evil, because they rejected the communications of Allah and used to mock them.”

Imam Jaffer al-Sadiq said “There is a white spot in every man’s heart. When he commits a sin a black spot emerges from this. If he repents, the blackness goes away but if he persists the blackness goes on increasing till it completely surrounds the whiteness. When this happens, this man will not revert to goodness.”

We should cry for our past sins.Intercession should neither raise false hope nor arrogance but the fear of Allah is necessary.

There is a difference between a Shia and Mohib. Once a person asked Imam Ali (a.s.) as to who is a Shia? Imam Ali(a.s.) replied “ Shias are those whose faces are pale due to excessive worship and the fear of Allah, their backs are bent due to prolong prayers, too much fasting causes their abdomen to touch their backbones, their lips become dry by repeating endless invocations, and their hearts are filled with fear of Allah.”

Sura Baiyyana Ayah 7 “The righteously striving believers are the best of all creatures.” The Noble Messenger  (s.a.w.a.s.) said “O Ali, ‘Khairul Bareeya’ means you and your Shias. On the Day of Judgment, they would be satisfied with what Allah has bestowed upon them and they shall be liked by Allah.”  

One of the factors which prevent Shia from committing sins is the Wilayat or love for Imam Ali (a.s.). The natural consequence of love is to follow in to his foot-steps and avoid things prohibited in Islam. There is tradition by Imam Ali al-Raza (a.s.) “Allah says’ Wilayat of Ali Ibne Abu Talib is My fort, one who enters My fort is safe from My wrath (Ghazab). Verbal claim of love of Imam Ali (a.s.) is insufficient unless it follows by action.

The Infallible Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) had explained some of the Greater Sins as follows:

1. The Greatest of the Greater Sins is “Shirk”, to attribute partners with Allah. Sura al-Maida verse 72 “Certainly who ever associates (others) with Allah, then Allah has forbidden to him the Garden (Paradise).”
2. To despair from Mercy of Allah. Sura al-Yousuf Ayah 87 “Surely non despairs from Allah’s Mercy except the unbelieving people.”
3. Not fearing the retribution of Allah. Sura al-Araaf Ayah 99 “But none feels secure from Allah’s plan except the people who shall perish.”
4. To disobey ones parents. Sura al-Maryam Ayah 14 “And dutiful to his parents, and he was not insolent, disobedient.”
5. To kill a believer. Sura al-Nisa Ayah 93 “And whoever kills a believer intentionally, his punishment is Hell; he shall abide in it, and Allah will send His wrath on him and curse him and prepare for him a painful chastisement.”
6. Slander a believing man or a woman of adultery (or sodomy). Sura al-Noor Ayah 23 “Surely those who accuse chaste believing woman, unaware (of the evil) are cursed in this world and the hereafter, and they shall have a grievous chastisement.”
7. The usurpation of an orphan’s property. Sura al-Nisa Ayah10 “(As for) those who swallow the property of the orphans unjustly, surely they only swallow the fire in to their bellies and they shall enter burning fire.”
8. To retreat from Jihad (the Holy War). Sura al-Anfal Ayah 16 “And who ever shall turn his back to them on that day-unless he turns aside for the sake of fighting or withdraws to a company-then he, indeed becomes deserving of Allah’s wrath, and his abode is Hell; and an evil destination shall it be.”
9. To take interest. Sura al-Baqara Ayah 275 “One who swallows down usury cannot arise except as one whom Shaitan has prostrated by (his) touch does rise. This is because they say, trading is only like usury; and Allah has allowed trading and forbidden usury.”
10. Magic. Sura al-Baqara Ayah 102 “and certainly they know that he who bought it (the magic) should have no share of good in the hereafter  and evil was the price for which they sold their souls; had they  known this.”
11. Adultery (fornication) Sura al-Furqan Ayahs 68 and 69 “And they who do not call upon another god with Allah and do not slay a soul which Allah has forbidden except in the requirements of justice and (who) do not commit fornication. And he who does this shall find a requital of sin. The punishment shall be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he shall abide therein in abasement.”
12. Taking a false oath. Sura Al-Aale Imran Ayah 76 “(As for ) those who take a small price for the covenant of Allah and their own oaths-Surely they shall have no portion in the hereafter, and Allah will not speak to them, nor will He look upon them on the Day of Resurrection nor will He purify them, and they shall have a painful chastisement.”
13. Betrayal of trust or to act unfaithfully. Sura al-Aale Imran Ayah 161 and 162 “And it is not attributable that he should act unfaithfully; and he who acts unfaithfully shall bring that in respect of which he acted unfaithfully on the Day of Resurrection; then shall every soul be paid back fully what it has earned, and they shall not be dealt unjustly. Is then he who follows the pleasure of Allah like him who has made himself deserving of displeasure from Allah, and his abode is Hell; and it is an evil destination.”
14. Failure to pay Zakat. Sura al-Tauba Ayah 34 “and (as for) those who hoard up gold and silver and do not spend in Allah’s ways, announce to them a painful chastisement.”
15. To bear a false witness. Sura al-Hajj Ayah 30 “…..and avoid false words.”
16. To conceal evidence. Sura al-Baqara Ayah 283 “…..and do not conceal testimony and whoever conceals it, his heart is surely sinful; and Allah knows what you do.”
17. Drinking of wine. Sura al-Baqara Ayah 219 “They ask you about intoxicants and game of chance. Say: In both of them there is Great Sin and means of profit for men, and their sin is greater than their profit.”
18. Willfully avoid prayers. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s) said “One who willfully avoids prayers is away from the protection of Allah and His Messenger”
19. Breaking an oath. Sura al-Baqara Ayah 27 “ Who break the covenant of Allah after its confirmation and cut as under what Allah has ordered to be joined (that is mutual relationship), and make mischief in the land; these it is that are the losers.”
20. To break ties with the relatives. Sura al-Raad Ayah 25 “and cut asunder what Allah has ordained to establish.”  

Imam Ali al-Raza (a.s.) wrote to the caliph Mamun enumerating the Greater Sins. The list included additional sins as under:

Stealing, Eating dead animals, pigs and blood, Homosexuality, Not acknowledging bounties of Allah, Associating and cooperating with oppressors, Lying, Expenditures in ways not permitted by Allah, Persist in committing Smaller Sins, To treat Smaller Sins as trifle.

            Source: Greater Sins by Ayatollah sayyed Abdul Husayn Dasteghaib Shirazi

TURNING AWAY FROM THE RIGHT PATH DURING THE DEATH

Continuing on the “Stages of Life after Death”, a person may run away from Right Path-Siraat-al-Mustaqeem- during the pangs of death. At the time of death, Shaitaan comes to the dying man and as a last resort tries to deceive him and put him in doubt so as to turn him from the faith (Ei’maan), it is recommended that the man should preserve the “Fundamentals of Faith” (Usool-e-Deen). If he can recite the following Supplication”:

                “Allahumma ya arhamarrahemeenah inni qad aw da’toka yaqeeni haad’a wa                               thobaata deeni wa anta  mustaudei’n wa qad amartana be hifzil wad’ae farudduhu                     a’liyya waqta h’zure mauti.”

It is also recommended to recite “Du’a-e-Adeelah” with a pure heart. Shaikh Tusi relates from Muhammad bin Sulayman Daylami asked the Infallible Imam J’afar as-Sadiq (a.s.),” some of your followers’ say that faith (Eimaan) is of two types; permanent and firmly established and one which is given to us as a trust and can be ruined.”The Imam (a.s.) told him to recite the following Du’a after every obligatory prayer:

                Razeetubillahe rabban wa be Muhammadin sallallahu alaihe wa al’lehi nabi wa bil                       Islame deenan wa bil qur’ane kitaban wa bil ka’bate qiblatan wa bil aliyyan walian                     wa imaama. Wa bil hasane wal husayne wa alinil husayne wa Muhammad ibne aliyyin                 wa ja’faribne muhammadin wa moosabne ja’farin wa alibne moosa  wa                                         muhammadibne aliyyin wa aliyyibne muhammadin wal hasanibne ali wal hujjat ibnal                 hasan. Salawatullahe  alaihim a’imma Allahumma inni razeetu behim a’immatan                         farzini lahum innaka ala kulle shayin qadeer.

ACTS THAT PROVE BENIFICAL DURING DEATH: The best deed is to perform prayers (namaaz) on time. It is reported that the Angel of Death (Malek-ul-Maut) looks at every person at five times of prayers during the day. When the time of death of that person comes, the Angel of Death recognizes him and helps him recite the kalemah and shuns away the Shaitaan.

The infallible Imam Ja’far as-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “If you wish to face the death while you are on the right path and wish that your rooh leaves your body while you perform good deeds, then hold Allah’s orders dear to you and obey them, do not waste His bounties by being disobedient to Him, do not take undue advantage of His mercy, nor become arrogant. Honor those who follow us and respect those who love us.”

Recite “Dua-e-Tamjeed” of Sahifa-e-Kamilah (Dua #11)

Recite the following supplication during the month of Zilqad on Sundays after prayers:

Recite “Tasbih-e-Fatima (s.a.)”, which is 34 times Allahu Akbar, 33 times Alhamdulillah, 33 times Subha’anallah.

Wear a ring of Cornelian (Aqeeq, especially of red color)

Recite Surah al-Mo’menoon every Friday.

Recite the following supplication 7 times after morning and evening prayers:

Bismillahir rah’manir raheem Laa h’owla wala quwwata illah billahil a’liyyil a’zeem

Recite 8 units (Rak’at) namaaz on the night of 22 Rajab; in each unit (Rak’at) after Surah al-Hamd recite 7 times Suah al-Tawheed. After namaz recite 10 times Salawaat, and 10 times Astaghferullaha Rabbi wa Atoboo Ilaih .

Sayyid ibne Tawoos relates that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “If a person recites 4 units (Rak’at) of namaz in the month of Sha’baan such that in each unit (Rak’at) after reciting Surah al-Hamd recite 50 times Surah al-Tawheed.

Then during death his spirit will be removed with ease, and his grave will become spacious, and on the Day of Judgment when he comes out of his grave, his will be shining bright like a full moon and “Kalmae Shahadat” will be on his lips.

                Source used: Manazil-ul-Aakhira                                  by Maulana  Shaikh Abbas Qummi (r.a.)

UNGRATEFUL REBELS IN THE GLORIOUS QUR'AN

Surah “Qaf” Ayah 24: “Both of you throw into Hell every ungrateful rebel.”

There are many exegeses about the two persons addressed by Allah (s.w.t.) in this Ayah. In the Arabic language, if the addresses are two it is called “Tasniya”, and if the number of persons addressed are more than two, it is plural. In the Ayah the word “Alqiya” is used which for only two individuals.

According to the senior reporter of Ahadees, Ibne Abbas reports about the revelation of this Ayah: “the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said to me, O’ Ibne Abbas! Follow Ali ibne Abi Talib, for his words are guidance and following him is salvation. Never go against his orders-Woe unto the one who holds enmity with him or is ill-disposed to him. Beware O’ Ibne Abbas! On the Day of Judgment he would admit the people to Hell and Heaven. It is said that the two who would be commanded by Allah to throw the sinners into the hell-fire would be the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and Ali Ibne Abi Talib (a.s.). The criterion of judging the individuals might be the faith in the Last Apostle of Allah (s.a.w.a.s.) and the continuation of his guidance through the divinely instituted Imamate, the first of the Holy Imams being , Imam Ali (a.s.)

As per Musnad-e-Imam Ahmad bin Hambal, Sharik bin Abdullah narrates that they were visiting Muhammad A’mash while he was on his death bed. Imam Abu Hanifa and Ibne Abi Layla also joined us. Imam Abu Hanifa told A’mash, “Have fear of Allah as this is your last day of this world and the first day of hereafter. You had been narrating such traditions about Ali ibne Abi Talib that it would have been better if you kept quite.” A’mash became angry and asked to be made comfortable and then he said, “Abul Mutwakkil narrated to me through Abu Sa’eed Khudri that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “On the Day of Judgment, Allah (s.w.t.) will ask me and Ali ibne Abi Talib to send our friends to Heaven and our enemies to Hell.”

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “Whoever recites Surah Qaf will not suffer at the time of his death, increase his sustenance and makes the accounting on the Day of Judgment easier. Ayah 23 is especially good for eye ailments if the Surah is recited and blown in water and drinks that water.”

If this Surah is written on paper and placed around the neck of a person who is suffering from epilepsy, he would be fully cured.

Sources used:

The Glorious Qur’an (English Translation) by S.V.Mir Ahmed Ali & Ayatollah Agha H.M.M. Pooya

The Glorious Qur’an (Urdu Translation) by Ayatollah Nasir Makaem Shirazi

The Glorious Qur’an (Urdu Translation) by Maulana Farman Ali

www.Imamreza.net & www.al-Islam.org/enlightening commentary

LA ILAHA ILLALLAH

The literal meaning of this component of basic Islamic faith is “There is no deity but Allah”

The main words are “Ilah” and “Allah”. Ilah is one to which hearts are bound by love, fear, hope, tawakkul, help, pray, worship, and sacrifice.

The word “Ilah” is used 2963 times in the Glorious Qur’an.

It is the first part of the “Shahadah” which is “La Ilaha Illlallah Muhammadun Rasoolullah” meaning “There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger”

By surveying the different needs of human beings, one can easily conclude that power who has the capacity to fulfill the needs of His creatures, Who gives them shelter and protection, gives them peace of mind in distress, possesses superiority , authority and power, is hidden from man’s eyes and His creation eagerly turn to Him.

In Surah Maryam Ayah81-82: “They have sought honor from other gods instead of Allah. In fact they can have no honor; their gods will renounce their worship of idols and will turn against them.”

In Surah Ya Sin Ayah74-75: “They chose idols besides Allah in the hope of receiving help from them, but they will not be able to help them. Instead, the unbelievers will be brought into the presence of Allah as the soldiers of the idols.”

In Surah al-Qasas Ayah 88: “Do not worship anything besides Allah. He is the only “Ilah””

In Surah al-Ahqa’af Ayah 28: “Why did the idols, whom they worshiped as a means of pleasing Allah, not help them? In fact they proved to be the cause of their going astray and it was lies which they had falsely invented.”

In Surah al-Nahl Ayah 51: “Allah says, “Do not worship two gods. There is only One Ilah (one deserving to be worshiped). Have fear of me.”

In Suarah al-Taubah Ayah 31: “They observed the rabbis and the monks and worshiped the Messiah, son of Mary, as they should have obeyed Allah. They were commanded to worship no one besides Allah who is the only Lord and who is most Exalted. He cannot be considered equal to any idols.”

In Surah al-Furqan Ayah 43: “How can you be the guardian of those who have chosen their own desires as their Lord”

In Surah al-Zukhruf Ayah 84: “It is Allah who is the Lord of the heavens and is the Lord on earth. He is All-Wise and All-Knowing.”

In Surah al-Nahl Ayah 17&20: “Is the one who can create equal to the one who cannot create anything? Why then will you not consider? Whatever (idols) they worship besides Allah can create nothing for they are themselves created”

In Surah al-Fatir Ayah 3: “Is there any creator besides Allah who could provide you with sustenance from the heavens and the earth? He is the only Ilah (one deserving to be worshiped)

In Surah al-Qasas Ayah 70: “He is Allah, the only Ilah (one deserving to be worshiped) and it is only He who deserves to be given thanks in this world and the in the life to come. Judgment is in His hands and to Him you will return”

“Ilah” does not mean only the worshiped deity, but at times it is used as Creator and at times as Lord.

During the period of caliph Mansoot-e-Dawaniqi, an enemy of the Infallible Imam Ja’afar as-Sadiq (a.s.) made fraudulent documents purporting to be written by the Imam (a.s.). Mansoor called the Imam (a.s.) and presented the fraudulent documents. The Imam (a.s.) denied to be his writing and asked to call man who made those documents and asked him to swear by Allah. The man sweared as followed: “Wallahallazi La Ilaha Illah Huwal Hayyul Qayyum…” The Imam asked him to swear by saying: “Baretu Min Haullillahe Wa Quwwatehi An Lam Yaf’al Jafar Kaza”. Meaning: “If Jafar did not do this then I will be beyond the Power of Allah” The man had just started reciting the swear words that he fell on the ground. The Imam explained that when the liar was using the phrase “La Ilaha Illallah” which is appreciated by Allah hence there was a possibility that Allah’s chastisement might be delayed! We can realize the importance of “La Ilaha Illallah” and should recite it as frequently as possible.

Shaheed-e-Sa’ni reported in “Sharh-e-Lam’a” that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “Whoever recites “La Ilaha Illalah” at the time of his death will enter into Paradise.” 

THE PRIDE OF WORSHIPERS, IMAM ZAYN AL-ABIDIN (A.S.)

Imam Ali, Zayn-al-Abidin, was the son of the King of the Martyrs, Imam Husayn (a.s.). His mother was Shaher Bano, daughter of the last Persian king, Yazdjurd. He was born in Madina on 5^th Shabaan 38 A.H. He was entrusted with the Divine Imamate on the day of Ashura 61 A.H. He led the imprisoned AhlulBayt women and children from Karbala to Kufa and then to Damascus. This was the most painful and humiliating journey.

When Yazid tried to talk in an insulting manner, he bravely spoke the truth whereupon Yazid threatened to kill him but Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) intervened. During this journey, he delivered sermons introducing himself and AhlulBayt and explained the objectives of their sacrifices to save Islam. When the news of Tragedy of Karbala spread far and wide and signs of revolt were apparent, Yazid released the AhlulBayt. Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) asked for a house so as to arrange the mourning of the martyrs of Karbala. This was the first assembly of mourning (Majlis) for the martyrs. Imam Zayn-al-Abidin and the AhlulBayt returned to Madina en route to Karbala.

The Imam (a.s..) led a quite life after his return to Madina. Yazid’s army ruthlessly suppressed the revolt in Madina. His army turned the Sacred Mosque of the Prophet into stable for horses, killed hundreds of innocent Muslims including many companions of the Prophet, and destroyed the chastity of numerous females on the clear instructions of Yazid. These beasts destroyed Madina for three days. The Imam lived 35 years after the tragedy of Karbala. Because of the unfavorable circumstances, the Imam started writing supplications, which demonstrates the immense knowledge of the family of Imam Ali (a.s.)-“The Gateway of Knowledge” His supplications were collected in the famous book, “Saheefa-e-Sajjadia”. The book is next to his grandfather, Imam Ali (a.s.)’ “Nahjul Balagha”.

Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) also compiled a treatise known as “Risalat-ul-Huqooq”-a Treatise of Rights, which contains the rights of human beings, including the rights of every part of the body. If one compares this book with the United Nation’s “Charter of Human Rights”, it appears to have been copied from this Treatise. The Imam would carry bags of bread on his back at night, without showing his identity, would go around in Madina and distribute among the needy. Only his close companions were aware of it.

Hisham bin Abdul Malik, the heir apparent of the caliph, was visiting Makka for Hajj and was sitting in a chair waiting to kiss the Black Stone in Ka’aba, he saw that a young man came towards the Black Stone and the crowd automatically separated to give way to him. The man gracefully came and kissed the Black Stone and left. He knew who the man was. It was Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) but to overcome his embarrassment, he enquired from his companions. The famous poet of Arabia, Farazdaq, compiled a poetry extempore praising the Imam. Some of the stanzas of his poem read as, “He is the one whom the whole Makkah knows.  Every stone in Ka’aba knows him. He is the grandson of Fatima and Ali and the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.).” Hisham became furious and imprisoned him. When Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) came to know about it, he sent some money to Farazdaq who said that he composed that poetry for the sake of Allah and Hereafter and did not want any worldly compensation, but the imam insisted him to accept the gift.

It is said that after Karbala, the Imam wept and cried for a long time and when someone asked as to how long he was going to cry as “martyrdom was the grace and inheritance of AhlulBayt”. The Imam replied that humiliation was not the inheritance of AhlulBayt!

The Imam through his supplications had spread the teachings of Islam. Abu Hamza al Thamali was one of his companions. The Imam had taught him a supplication known as “Duae Abu Hamza Thamali”. Abu Makhnuf was another companion who was told by Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) to write the story of Karbala in narrative form which became a part of the authentic account of the tragedy of Karbala and became a source of majalis all over the world.

Walid bin Abdul Malik, the monarch at Damascus realized that Imam’s teachings were spreading all over the Arabia and influencing the Muslims, hence he poisoned the Imam and he was martyred on 25^th of Muharrum 95 A.H.

Once a person asked Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen (A.S.), “What is the criterion for the acceptance of the prayers? The Imam replied, “Acknowledging our Wilayah and dissociating from our enemies.”

The reason why the Imam was given the title of “Zayn-al-Abidin” was that one night the Imam was praying and Shaitaan manifested himself as a huge serpent and tried to distract him. When the Imam did not take notice of him, he bites the toe of the Imam (a.s.) causing great pain, but the Imam remained oblivious of him, and carried on with his prayers. After completing his prayers, the Imam realized that it was Shaitaan, he cursed him saying, “O’ Accursed! Go away” and once again engaged himself in worship. It was at that moment that an angel called three times: “You are the embellishment of the worshippers.” Or “Zayn-al-Abidin”

Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) said, “The attributes of a believer are: piety in private, donating charity at the time of need, patience when misfortune comes, tolerance at the time of anger, and truthfulness when there is fear.”

Once, the young Imam fell sick. Imam Husayn (a.s.) inquired about his health and asked further if he had any wish. The Imam replied, “My only wish is that may Allah count me among those who do not have any wish against His “Divine Decree and Divine Estimation” or “Qaza-o-Qadr”

The Imam’s face would turn yellow while preparing for wudu and he would tremble in prayers due to fear of Allah. Once, Imam was praying and young Imam Mohammad Baqir fell in a well in the house and his mother was upset and called the Imam to rescue the boy. The Imam peacefully completed his prayer and after finishing it, he went near the well and put his hand in the well and pulled out Imam Baqir completely unharmed and without wetting his clothes.

After his return from Karbala, his uncle Mohammad-e- Hanafiyya, asked the Imam to give him the sacred assets of Imamat as he was the elder in the family. The Imam advised him to accompany him to Holy Ka’aba and let the Black Stone decide about the Imamat. By the order of Allah, there was a voice from the Black Stone saying, “Imamat is the right of Zayn-al-Abidin”

At the time of the destruction of Madina, Marwaan, who was an arch enemy of AhlulBayt, came to the Imam for shelter of his family. The Imam gladly provided the requested shelter!

Similarly, Haseen Ibne Numair, one of the murderers in Karbala, requested to buy food grains from the Imam. The Imam said that he did not want to sell it but can give him free.

One of his Shias from Balakh used to come for Hajj and visit the Imam in Madina. Once his wife told him, “You always take gifts for your Imam but has your Imam ever given you anything?” Next year when he visited the Imam the Imam asked him to join him for food. After finishing the food, the Imam wanted to pour water on his hands to wash. When the pot was full with dirty water, the Imam asked him, “What is it?” He said water. The Imam said, “Look carefully” When he looked carefully he saw red gems instead of water. The Imam told him to give it to his wife.

Omer Ibne Abdul Aziz was the only exception in the corrupt Umayyad Dynasty. When he was the Governor of Hejaz, one of the walls of Prophet’s mausoleum fell down. After the repair, he invited Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) to perform the opening ceremony of the mosque. He was the one who returned the Garden of Fadak to Bani Hashim and also stopped the sinful tradition of cursing Imam Ali from the mosques as started by Moa’via bin Abu Sufyanl.

COMMANDER OF THE FAITHFUL AND THE WORLDLY WEALTH

From the general stories about the life-style of the Infallible Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.), people think that he was a poor man. Imam Ali (a,s,) was a wealthy man, but unlike the wealthy men of this world who spend a sizeable amount of their wealth on themselves and their families. Imam Ali (a.s.) generated wealth by his own hands by making wells, gardens of fruits etc. and formed a trust and directed his son Imam Hasan (a.s.) to use the income for general provision of food to poor and needy. He had about 50,000 slaves male and female, who worked on Imam Ali (a.s.) agricultural estates. But the Imam himself led a simple life to the basic standard of the poorest men in Arabia. The names of 18 estates are mentioned in the book “Nau ki Tahreer” by Talat Sayyida. Waqidi reports that the value of these may be assessed by the fact that in the estate of Baghibagha produced 32,400 Kilo Grams of dates. Similarly, Moavia bin Abu Sufyan offered 30 lakh dinars to Imam Husayn (a.s.) for one well dug by Imam Ali (a.s.)

According to Imam Ja’afar al-Sadiq (a.s.), Imam Ali (a.s.) had bought 1,000 slaves in his life-time and set them free. In the book “History of Balazari” Faza’il Ahmad wrote: “One day, Imam Ali (a.s.) distributed 40,000 dinar grains as sadaqa and on the same day he sold one of his swords saying: “If would have sufficient money I would have not sold this sword”

The revered scholars like, Kulayni, Tusi, Majlisi, and Hurre A’mili had reported the details of a Trust which Imam Ali (a.s.) himself had written and witnessed by his companions. The Trust was communicated by Imam Musa-al-Kazim (a.s.). The salient features of the Trust covering 18 agricultural properties are reproduced below:

By the name of Allah, the Beneficent and Merciful. It is my will regarding my estate.

1.       Yanbu: All the land at Yanbu which is my property are being managed by my slaves who are now free whose names are Rabah, Abu Naizar, and Jubair. Other workmen on these lands are “Sadaqa” or welfare assets and free to work for 5 years. They are entitled to take for life their reasonable share for sustenance.

2.       Valley of Qura (Wadi-e-Qura): The entire property and the slaves are the property of the children of Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.)

3.       Valley of Tar’a: The property and the slaves are welfare assets.

4.       Azeenah: The entire property and the slaves working on it are the welfare assets (sadaqa)

5.       Faqirain: the property and the working slaves are sadaqa and the income be used in the way of Allah.

The income of all my properties is to be spent for the cause and in the way of Allah. It may also be spent for the welfare of Bani Hashim and Bani Muttalib, near or far relations of mine.

All my trusts will be managed by my son Hasan ibne Ali who may take reasonable amounts for his sustenance. The remaining portion should be spent for the Pleasure of Allah. He may also sell these properties to pay off any debt.

If Hasan ibne Ali’s house is not a part of sadaqat or the trust and if he wants to sell it then the proceeds should be divided into three portions; one part in the way of Allah, one part for Bani Hashim and Bani Muttalib and one part on the families of Abu Talib. If Hasan is martyred in the lifetime of Husayn, then Husayn will take over the Trust and follow the instructions as stated for Hasan.

The properties held by Muhammad ibne Hanafiya and the children of Sayyida Fatima Zahra are excluded from this Trust.

No one who believes in Allah and the Day of Judgment have right to change this Trust in any way neither now or in future.

I have taken this decision at Maskan, a place near Kufa on 10 Jumadi al-U’lah 36 A.H. and witnessed by Abu Shimar bin Abraha, Sasa bin Sauha’an, Yazeed bin Qaise, Miyaj bin Abi Miyaj.

Condensed from: Maula Ali’s 25 years in Madina (from the demise of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s) to Khilafat)

                                                                 By Professor Doctor Sayyid Manzar Husayn Kazmi

BENEFITS OF THE MONTH OF SHA'BAN AL-MOAZZAM

Sha’ban is the eighth lunar month of Hijri calendar. It is the second month of worship to prepare for the grand month of Ramazaan. The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had said: “Sha’ban is a month dedicated to me. Whoever keeps one fast during my month will definitely go to Heaven. Whoever observes nine fasts during Sha’ban should not fear the interrogation of Munkir and Nakeer. Whoever observes twelve fasts during Sha’ban, 70,000 angels will descend over his/her grave on the first night of his/her burial, the night of Wahshah, to remove his/her fear and loneliness Similarly, whoever fasts on Mondays and Thursdays, Allah will fulfill twenty of his worldly wishes and twenty of his wishes for Hereafter.”

Keeping fasts on Thursdays of Sha’ban has great significance as the angels ask Allah for his forgiveness and his prayers are accepted.   This is the month of asking for forgiveness of sins, giving charity and fasting. Similarly, we should fast on the 13, 14, and 15 of Sha’ban.

A’AMAL FOR THE MONTH OF SHA’BAN:

Recite Salawa’at on the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and his Pure Progeny as many times as possible.

Recite 70 times every day: “Astaghfirullah wa as-aluhut Tawbah (I seek forgiveness from Allah and beseech Him repentant).

Recite 70 times every day: “Astaghfirullahal Lazi La Ilaha Illah Huwar-Rahmanur-Raheemul-Hayyul-Qayyoomu wa Atoobu Ilaihi (I seek forgiveness of Allah Who is “There is no god save He”, the Beneficent, the Merciful, the Ever-Living, the Eternal and I turn repentant to Him)

Recite1, 000 the following Zikr, divide through the month of Sha’ban:

“La Ilaaha Illahu walaa Na’budu Illa Iyyaahu Mukhliseena Lahud deen walau Karihal-Mushrikoon” (There is no god save Allah, we do not worship save Him, making religion pure for Him only, however much the disbelievers be averse.)

Give as much Sadaqa (alms) as possible.

SPECIAL PRAYERS AND A’MAAL FOR THE NIGHT OF 15 SHA’BAN (SHAB-E-BARA’AT)

Perform Ghusul with the thought of washing away all sins as if it is your last ghusul.

Keep awake the whole night as it has many rewards.

Dua-e-Taubah, from Sahifa Kamila. Recite “Astaghfirullah” 100 times.

Recite Surah Yaseen and “Ziyarat-e-Imam Husayn”

Recite Dua-e-Imam al-Asr and Dua-e-Nudba

Recite “Tasbihat-ul-Arb’a” as follows:

Subhan Allah (Glory be to Allah)                                                                    100 times

Alhamdulillah (Praise belongs to Allah)                                                          100 times

Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)                                                               100 times

La Ilaha Illallah (There is no Lord worthy of worship except Allah)              100 times

IMAM ALI (A.S.) DURING THE PERIOD OF CALIPHS ABU BAKR AND OMAR

The Infallible Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) loved and cared for Islam and the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). His father Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) had sowed the seed of love and sacrifice for the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) into the heart and soul of Imam Ali (a.s.). During the economic boycott and stay in Shau’b-e-Abu Talib, he used to place young Imam Ali (a.s.) in the Prophet’s bed at night to save the Prophet’s life. During the last days of his life, the Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.s.) had instructed Imam Ali (a.s.) to exercise patience after his sad demise. Hence, Imam Ali (a.s.) continued to discharge his responsibilities to protect Islam and the Muslims. He advised the first three caliphs on the matters of state involving Muslims at large, resolved difficult legal situations when approached by the caliphs.

Caliph Abu Bakr was fully aware of the merits of Imam Ali (a.s.) and was happy for the wise composure about the khilafat in spite of his superior bravery. According to Imam Ghizali in “Sirril A’lameen”, Sibte Ibnal Jauzi in Tazkira Khawas-ul-Ummat page 36, and “Haider-e-Karrar” page 172, Caliph Abu Bakr said: “I am not better than you as Ali is amongst you.”

After the election of the caliph in the Saqifa Bani Sa’dah, Abu Sufyan had approached Imam Ali (a.s.) and offered to flood the streets of Madinah with his troops to snatch the khilafah, but Imam Ali (a.s.) refused his offer. 

Although, he refused to return the “Fadak” to Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) but later had written the title of Fadak to her but Caliph Omar torn it away. In spite of all these, Imam Ali (a.s.) had provided sound advice whenever the caliph asked for it as he (a.s.) was the “Imam” of the time.

In the year 21 A.H., the Persians were preparing to invade the Islamic state. The Muslims panicked. The advisory council recommended withdrawing troops from the Syrian front and the caliph Omar wanted to lead the Muslim army. Imam Ali (a.s.) advised that it was not a good move to withdraw army from Syria as the Romans might be tempted to attack and if the entire army from Madina was sent to Iran then the Bedouins might play havoc. Imam Ali (a.s.) advised to send two-third of the forces from Basra and Kufa. He also strongly advised against caliph Omar leading the army to Iran as the enemy might try to eliminate him with full force. Caliph Omar agreed with Imam Ali (a.s.)’s advise and sent Nu’maan bin Muqrin as the commander of Muslim forces.

Imam Ali (a.s.) advised about the land reforms and taxation. When the Christians offered to an agreement on Jerusalem, they insisted that the Caliph should personally sign the agreement. Usman bin Iffan advised to reject the proposal but Imam Ali (a.s.) advised Caliph Omar to go to Jerusalem and he agreed with his advice. Imam Ali (a.s.) advised the Caliph to acquire the new calendar year from the year of Migration of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and the caliph agreed to it. Imam Ali (A.S.) enhanced the Arabic language. He also manually paved the road for about 17 miles.

When Iran was conquered, all the wealth in the form of jewel, gems golden ornaments etc. were brought to Madina. Caliph Omar  wanted to place it in the “Bait-ul-Maal” but Imam Ali (a.s.) advised him to distribute among the Muslims who fought and the people of Madina unanimously approved Imam Ali (a.s.)’s advice which was accepted by the caliph.

The emperor of Rome sent a question to the caliph Omar saying: “Which is the Surah in the Glorious Qur’an which had seven Ayahs but does not contain seven letters?” The Huffaz (who had learnt the Qur’an by heart) could not identify the Ayahs. The caliph sought Imam Ali (a.s.)’s help and the Imam (a.s.) right away said: “It is Surah Hamd which does not have Tha, Jeem, Khay, Zay, Sheen, Zuay, and Fa.”

Source: Scribe.com/Imam Ali Madine me pachhees saal by Syed Manzar Husayn Kazmi

INFALLIBLE IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.)'S REMINDER ABOUT THE PANJETAN (A.S.)

According to Saleem bin Quays, the Infallible Imam Husayn (a.s.) along with Abdullah ibne Abbas and Abdullah ibne Jafar visited Makkah to perform Hajj. In Mina, Imam Husayn (a.s.) invited a huge gathering of about seven hundred “Ta’be’in” and about two hundred companions of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). Imam Husayn (a.s.) stood in front of the gathering and delivered a sermon as detailed below:

“Praise be to Allah. You all are aware of what Mua’wiya had done to us and our Shias. I want to ask you a question and if I say the truths then you testify it and if you do not agree then you may reject it. Please keep it secret with you and when you go back home then disclose it to your trusted ones so that when truth becomes old then it would be forgotten although Allah will protect its light. Imam Husayn (a.s.) recited the Ayahs of the Noble Qur’an and the Traditions of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) about Imam Ali (a.s.), Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) and himself. The audience testified every question and said: “By Allah, we had heard it and testify it.”

“Can you swear by Allah, that my grandfather (s.a.w.a.s.) at the time of making brother hood among his companions, made my father Ali ibne Abi Talib (a.s.) as his brother and said: “O Ali! You are my brother and I am your brother in this world and Hereafter.”

“Can you swear by Allah, that all the doors of the companions were closed into the mosque except the door of my father Ali ibne Abi Talib (a.s.) on the orders of Allah (s.w.t.)”

“Can you swear by Allah, that on the Day of Velayat of my father Ali Ibne Abi Talib (a.s.) at Ghadeer-e-Khum, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “Whoever’s I am Maula, Ali is also his Maula”

“Can you swear by Allah, that on the eve of the Battle of Tabuk, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said to my father Ali ibne Abi Talib (a.s.): “Your status with me is the same as Harun was to Musa”

“Can you swear by Allah, that on the eve of Mubahelah, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) took no one else except my father Ali ibne abi Talib (a.s.), my mother Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.), my brother Hasan (a.s.) and me.”

“Can you swear by Allah, that on the eve of the Battle of Khyber, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said: “I will give the standard of Islam to a man whom Allah and His Prophet love and who loves Allah and His Prophet and will not run away from the battle field and bring Victory to Islam.” My father was the Conqueror of Khyber.

“Can you swear by Allah, that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) gave the “Ayahs of Sura-e-Bara’at” and had said: “This can only be delivered by me or the one who is from me.”

“Can you swear by Allah, that I am the most important among the progeny of Adam, my brother Ali is the Chief and Leader of Arabs, my daughter Fatima Zahra is the leader of the women of Paradise, and Hasan and Husayn are the chief of the Youths of Paradise.”

“Can you swear by Allah, that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had asked my father Ali ibne Abi Talib to bathe him after his apparent demise from this world and that Archangel Jibra’eel will assist him.”

“Can you swear by Allah, that on the last sermon of his apparent life in this world, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had said: “I am leaving behind two weighty and priceless things; the Glorious Qur’an and my Progeny and that will not get astray if you are attached to both of them.”

“Can you swear by Allah, that the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) had said: “Whoever professes that he is my friend but cultivates hatred for Ali, is a liar. It is impossible to love me and hate Ali at the same time. Because I am from him and he is from me. Whoever loves Ali loves me and whoever loves me loves Allah. Similarly, whoever hates Ali hates me and whoever hates me hates Allah.

Condensed from: Hayat-e-Imam Husayn (a.s.) by Hujjat-ul-Islam wal Muslimeen Sayyid Hashim Rasuli Mahallati