SHIKWA OF ALLAMA IQBAL (R.A.) TO ALLAH (S.W.T.)

Allama Iqbal (r.a.) was the poet philosopher and called the “Thinker of Pakistan”. He was Doctor (Ph.D.) from Germany and a Barrister from England. Being a poet, he was deeply concerned about the pathetic condition of the Muslims of British India. With a view to awaken the Muslim Ummah, he compiled a poem of 61 stanza having 6 verses each. He counted the chivalrous deeds of Muslims reminding them of their past glory when they were the leaders and teachers of mankind. They implemented the rule of Allah on earth and brought revolutionary reforms in the areas under their tutelage and ensured that justice prevailed.  It was a sort of complain to Allah (s.w.t.). Although, no translation of any literary master piece can convey completely the essence of the original work, but a selected stanza of his original work in Urdu is translated in English as under:  

                                                            We erased falsehood from the surface of the earth

                                                   We freed humanity from the bonds of slavery

                                                            We prostrated the Holy Ka’ba with our foreheads

                                                            We put Your Qur’an into our hearts

                                                            Still You complain that we are lacking loyalty

                                                            If we are lacking loyalty, You are also not generous

                                                            You tell us who extricated the Gate of Khyber?

                                                            Who captured the city of Kaiser?

                                                            Who broke the idols of kings?

                                                            Who destroyed the armies of infidels?

                                                            Who closed the fireplace of Iran?

                                                            Who revived the worship of Divinity?

                                                            If the time of prayer comes during the battle

                                                            The Muslims prostrated towards Ka’ba

                                                            Master and slave stood shoulder to shoulder

                                                            There was no distinction between rich and poor

                                                            There was no discrimination between haves and have nots

                                                            Muslim brother hood was seen when they were in Your Court

                                                            If we leave You as if we leave the Noble Messenger

                                                            As if we became idol trader leaving the profession of idol                                                                  breaker

                                                            As if we have left the love of Allah

                                                            Leave the ways of Salman Mohammedi and Uwais-e-Qarani

                                                            We still have the fire of Takbir in our hearts

                                                            And love the life style of Bilal of Habash

                                                            We do not complain that their (non-Muslims) treasures are full

                                                            Who do not possess even basic social norms

                                                            Are outrageous that infidels are rewarded with Houries and                                                                    palaces

                                                            And the poor Muslims are only pacified with the promises of                                                                  Houries

                                                            We have been deprived of the past graces

                                                            What is the matter, we do not have the former favors?

Allama Doctor Muhammad Iqbal had authored five books in Urdu viz. Urdu Poetry, Payam-e-Mashriq,

Zabur-e-Ajam, Bal-e-Jibril, Zarb-e-Kalimand five books in Persian viz. Asrar-e-Khudi, Ramuz-e-Bekhudi, Armaghan-e-Hijaz Javid Nama, and Pas Chi Bayad Kard Ay Aqwam-e-Sharq. He also wrote two books in English viz. The Development of Metaphysics in Persia and The Reconstruction of Religious Thoughts in Islam

Source: Bang-e-Dara (Call of the Marching Band)

PROPHET ISA (A.S.) IN THE GLORIOUS QUR'AN

Jesus Christ has been referred in the Glorious Qur’an as Prophet Isa (a.s.)

When Prophet Isa (a.s.) was born without a father, Hazrat Maryam (s.a.) pointed towards the new born, then he (a.s.) said, “I am the servant of Allah. He has given me the Book and has appointed me a Prophet. He has blessed me no matter where I dwell, commanded me to worship Him and pay the religious tax (Zakat) for as long as I live. He has commanded me to be good to my mother and did not make me an arrogant, rebellious person. I was born with peace and I shall die and be brought to life with peace. Worship Allah who is my Lord as well as yours.” (Maryam: 30-36)

“We gave the Book to Moses (Musa) and made the Messengers follow in his path. To Jesus (Isa), the son of Mary (Maryam), We gave the miracles and supported him by the Holy Spirit.” (Baqarah :87)

“The unbelievers plotted, and Allah planned, but Allah is much better planner; He told Jesus (Isa), “I will save you from your enemies, raise you to Myself, keep you clean from the association with the unbelievers, and give superiority to your followers over the unbelievers until the Day of Judgment. To Allah the case of Jesus (Isa) is as that of Adam whom He created from the earth and then said, “Exist” and Adam came into existence.” (Imran :55,59)   

“….and their statement that they murdered Jesus (Isa), son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah, when, in fact, they could not have murdered him or crucified him. They, in fact, murdered someone else by mistake. Even those who disputed did not have a shred of evidence. All that they knew about it was mere conjecture. They certainly could not have murdered Jesus (Isa). Allah raised him up to Himself. Allah is Majestic and All-Wise.” (Nisa: 157)

“People of the Book, do not exceed the limits of devotion in your religion or say anything about Allah which is not the Truth. Jesus (Isa), son of Mary, is only a Messenger of Allah, His Word, and a spirit from Him whom He conveyed to Mary. So, have faith in Allah and His Messengers. Do not say that there are three (gods). It is better for you to stop believing in the Trinity. Allah is only One Lord. He is free of all defects; how can He have a son? To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and the earth. Allah alone is a sufficient guardian for all. “(Nisa :171)

“Jesus (Isa), the son of Mary, was no more than a Messenger before whom there lived many other Messengers. His mother was a truthful woman, and both ate earthly food.” (Ma’idah: 75)

“We gave some of Our Messengers preference over others. To some of them Allah spoke, and He raised the rank of some others. We gave authoritative proofs of Jesus (Isa), son of Mary, and supported him by the Holy Spirit. (Baqarah: 253)

“When Allah asked Jesus, son of Mary, “Did you tell men to consider you and your mother as their gods beside Allah? He replied, Glory be to You! How could I say what I have no right to say? Had I ever said it, You would have certainly known about it. You know what is in my soul, but I do not know what is in Yours. It is You who has absolute knowledge of the unknown.” (Ma’idah: 116)

“We made Jesus, son of Mary, follow in the foot-steps (of the earlier Prophets) and confirm what existed in the Torah (Taurayt) in his time. We gave him the Gospel (Injeel) containing guidance and light, as a confirmation of the Torah and instruction and advice for the pious ones.” (Ma’idah:46)

“Some of the Jews have said that Ezra is the son of Allah and Christians have said the same of Jesus. This is only what they say, and it is like what the unbelievers who lived before them had said.” (Taubah:30)

“When Jesus came with clear proof (in support of his truthfulness), he said, “I have come to you with wisdom to clarify for you some of the matters in which you dispute. Have fear of Allah and obey me. Allah is your Lord and my Lord, so worship Him. This is the right path.” (Zukhruf: 63)

ISLAM STANDS FOR PEACE

The meaning of the word “Islam” is submission to God. The name Islam and the Arabic word for peace, salaam, both come from the same root word ‘salima’ which indicates peace. It may be said that Islam and peace are twins. The Muslims greet each other by saying Salamun Alaikum-peace be on you. Out of Ninety-Nine Names of Allah is ‘Salam’. Many Muslims end their prayers by addressing Him as, “Allahumma Anta Salam Wa Minka Salam Wa Ilayka Ya’udu salam (O Allah! You are peace; from You originates peace and to You it returns)

That is the reason the final abode Allah provided for believers, and to which He invites them, is called “Darus salam” (the

abode of peace). The Glorious Qur’an says:

“They shall have their abode of peace with their Lord” (6:127)

“Allah invites everyone to the House of Peace and guides whomever He wants to the right path.” (10:25)

“And when they shall reach that destination, they shall be greeted by the angels in these words: Peace be on you, because you were patient; how excellent is then the issue of the abode.” (13:24)

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) is the manifestation God’s Mercy for humans on the planet earth.  The Glorious Qur’an brought the Divine Guidance for humanity not restricted to Muslims. In the Glorious Qur’an, at 18 places Allah addresses the man kind as “Ya Auyyuhannas” i.e. “O Mankind” (Baqarah Ayahs 21,168 Nisa Ayahs170, 174 A’raf Ayah158 Yunus Ayahs 104,108,157 Hajj Ayahs 5,49,73 Luq’man Ayah 33 Fa’tir Ayahs 3,5,15 Hujura’at Ayah 13, Infitar Ayah 6 Inshiqaq Ayah 6). Every Surah of the Glorious Qur’an (except Surah Taubah) starts with “Bismillah Rahman Rahim” It may be translated in English as, “In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful”. Allah is Merciful to His entire creations in the universe and He called His Messenger as “Mercy for the Universe as stated in Surah al-Anbiya Ayah 107, “(Muhammad), We have sent you for no other reason but to be a mercy for mankind.”

Law giver and law abider are two different institutions. Every country formulates laws for the benefit of its people. If the citizens of a country do not follow the laws, can we blame the law giver? The logical answer is no.

During his entire life, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) never initiated any war; it was always in self-defense. Even in those defensive battles, he instructed Muslims not to hurt, old, women and children who cannot defend themselves. Never burn the ready harvest of the enemy nor their trees or livestock. Similarly, his (s.a.w.a.s.) true vizier or wasi; the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) always tried his best to avoid bloodshed e.g. In the Battle of the Trench     when their famous hero Amr ibn Abduwudd came to fight with him, Imam Ali (a.s.) offered him 3 conditions viz accept Islam, go back (save your life), and come down from the horse. The Imam (a.s.) always directed his army men “do not start the war”, let the enemy begin the warfare.

Before announcing his Prophet hood, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) was unanimously acclaimed as “Trustworthy” and “Truthful”. Such a personality can never approve of violence against humanity.

When the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) migrated from Makkah to Madinah, he delivered a short sermon on the eve of entering Madinah. He said, “Spread Peace, share meals with others, maintain good relations with your relatives, and pray for a part of the night.”

Sources used: The Glorious Qur’an, islam.ru/en/content/story/feed-greet-pray-prophetic- peace formula (Sahih Bukhari), Four California Lectures by Allama Sayyid Saeed Akhter Rizvi

               

THE ACCURSED UBAID ALLAH BIN ZIYAD L.A.)

Ubaid Allah and his father Ziyad both were illegitimate by birth having been born out of sin. Muawiya accepted Ziyad as his brother. Ubaid Allah’s mother was Marjana hence he was called “Ibne Marjana”. Both Ubaid Allah and Ziyad were brutal and merciless murderers. Hence Muawiya and Yazid utilized their brutal skills to consolidate their rule.

Ubaid Allah was the governor of Basra and later given the charge of Kufa as well. The Kufans had already paid allegiance to Imam Husayn (a.s.) at the Hazrat Muslim bin Aqil’s hands. The crafty Ubaid Allah entered Kufa in disguise and the Kufans were deceived but as soon as he reached the Governor House, he showed his true colors of brutality and bribe. He threatened the Kufans with dire consequences if they did not pay allegiance to Yazid. He started search for Hazrat Muslim bin Aqil and sent a spy as a Shia to deliver money to him. Although Hazrat Muslim bin Aqil fought bravely with hundreds of troops but attained martyrdom. He showed the brutality and asked the troops to throw his body from the top of a building.

He promised the governorship of Rye to Umar ibn Sa’ad but later conditioned it to first fighting with Imam Huasyn (a.s.). Later, he sent Shimr ZilJaushan (l.a.) as a stand by, if Umar ibn Sa’ad refuses to fight then Shimr was to be given the charge of the army. On Ubaid Allah’s orders, the camps were removed from near the river and the supply of water was stopped from Muharram 7. Ibne Marjana is completely responsible for the massacre of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.)’s family at Karbala and ordered to imprison the sacred family and sent to Kufa on camels without seats.

When the daughters of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) were brought to Ubaid Allah, he said, “Allah be praised for He disgraced and executed your family and displayed that what you said was nothing but a lie.”

Sayyida Zaynab (s.a.) said, “Allah be praised for He blessed our family with His Prophet, who was of our family and Purified us. No one would be disgraced but those who are transgressors and would not lie but a wicked person, which is others rather than us. Ubaid Allah said, “Did you see how Allah dealt with your family?”Sayyidah Zaynab (s.a.) replied, “I saw nothing but beauty! Allah ordained them to be killed and they obeyed and hurried after their tombs, and soon Allah will gather you and them (on the Day of Judgment), and they will complain of you to Allah. Now look forward to seeing who wins the claim. May your mother mourn your death, O son of Marjana.”

After the death of Yazid, Ubaid Allah fled to Syria. Amir Mukhtar Saqafi rose against the Umayyads and their faithful Ubaid Allah was sent to fight Amir Mukhtar’s heroic bands who wanted to avenge Imam Husayn (a.s.) brutal massacre. Amir Mukhtar sent a strong contingent of 12,000 soldiers to Mosul under the command of Ibrahim bin Malik Ashtar. He saw some of the assassins of Imam Husayn (a.s.) like; Shees bin Rabiee, Shimr Ziljaushan, Umar ibn Sa’ad. He allowed them to go to Kufa and once in a house, they were planning to attack Amir Mukhtar’s forces, they along with others were arrested and killed and some of them were made captive. Again, Ibrahim bin Malik Ashtar went in search of accursed Ubaid Allah. Both the armies faced each other but soon Umayyads made a bid to escape. But Ibrahim encouraged his soldiers saying, “O partisans of truth and helpers of religion, kill these children of Shaitan.” Then attacking accursed Ubaid Allah, he said, “He is the same who restricted water to Imam Husayn and misbehaved with family of prophet hood and Imamate, made them captive and dragged in the streets of Kufa and Syria.” His words had the desired effect and his forces devastated the Umayyads. Ibrahim killed Ubaid Allah himself and sent his head to Amir Mukhtar.

It is also reported that a drop of blood from the sacred severed head of Imam Husayn (a.s.) was fallen on the accursed Ubaid Allah’s thigh and penetrated through his body. The wound was never healed and continued to smell very bad and to cover-up for the unpleasant smell of the wound, he always wore musk. This was worldly curse for him!

               Sources used: WIKIPEDIA, The Fate of the Killers of Imam Hussain -Ahle Sunnat (ahle-                                           jannat.WordPress) 

                                       Al-Murtaza.com, Revolvy.com, WikiShia.net

ALL-WISE ALLAH (S.W.T.) COMMANDS BELIEVERS TO LOWER THEIR GAZE

Look is defined by Webster’s Dictionary as, “To direct one’s eyes to see”. Gaze is defined as, “To look steadily; stare”

In one of the traditions of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), it is mentioned that Allah loves His creations more than 70 times than their mothers. Human beings should remember that all the commandments of Allah (s.w.t.) are for their own benefits.

Allah (s.w.t.) directs the believing men in Surah al-Nur Ayah 30, “(Muhammad), tell the believing men to cast down their eyes and guard their carnal desires; this will make them purer. Allah is certainly aware of what they do.”

Surah al-Gha’fir Ayah 19, “Allah knows the disloyalty of the eyes and what the hearts conceal.”

Surah al-Fussilat Ayahs 19- 20, “There will be the day when the enemies of Allah will be made to surge towards the fire and spurred on until (on the brink of it) their eyes, ears, and skin will testify to their deeds.”

Surah al-Ahza’b Ayah 36, “The believing men and women must not feel free to do something in their affairs other than that which has been decided for them by Allah and His Messenger. One who disobeys Allah and His Messenger is in plain error.”

Surah al-Infitar Ayahs 10-12, “But you should know that there are angelic guards  watching over you and these honorable scribes know whatever you do.”  

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “Lower your eyes and you will see wonders.”

The Gateway of Knowledge, the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) was asked what could help in lowering one’s gaze, the Imam Ali (a.s.) said, “Submission to the Power of Him Who is aware of your secrets. The eye is the spy of the hearts and the messenger of the intellect.; therefore, lower your gaze from whatever is not appropriate to your faith, from whatever your heart dislikes and from whatever your intellect finds repugnant (offensive).”

Prophet I’sa (a.s.) said to his disciples, “Beware of looking at forbidden things, for that is the seed of desire and leads to deviant behavior.”

Prophet Yahya (a.s.) said, “I would prefer death to a glance which is unnecessary.”

Our five senses not only influence our body, but they influence our souls. That is one of the reasons why Islam directs its followers to eat and drink halal and pure food. Similarly, the unlawful looks will affect our souls!

Sources:

The Glorious Qur’an

The Lantern of the Path by The Infallible Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.)

Al-Islam.org/Laws and Practices: Why do Muslims have a dress code

Al-Islam.org/ Understanding the month of Glory Lessons in the month of the Ramadan

REVENGE OF THE MASSACRE AT KARBALA BY AMIR MUKHTAR (A.S.)

Hazrat Mukhtar has been credited with the achievement of “Revenge of Massacre at Karbala”. After the tragedy of Karbala, the sacred women of AhlulBayt (a.s.) did not comb their hair. After hearing that Hazrat Mukhtar had severely punished the murders of Imam Husayn (a.s.), his family and companions, they resumed combing the hair. It is narrated that Imam Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) said: “Never say a bad word for Mukhtar as it is thanks to him that the killers of Imam Husayn (a.s.) were punished for their deeds.” Similarly, when the heads of Ibne Ziyad and Umer-e-Sa’d were brought in the presence of Imam Ali Zayn-al- Abedin (a.s.), he prostrated and thanked Allah saying: “I am thankful to God that You have taken revenge of our Holy blood. May my Lord grant Mukhtar for this good deed.”

He was born in 1 A.H. at Ta’if and was martyred in Kufa. He was 12 years old when his father died. He was raised by his mother and uncle, Sa’ad Ibn Masud. He was arrested by Ubaid-ullah ibn Ziyad in 61 A.H. He met, Imam Ali (a.s.)’s companion, Maysam Tammar in the prison. In the meantime, the tragedy of Karbala occurred and Ubaidullah bin Ziyad brought Hazrat Mukhtar and showed him the sacred head of Imam Husayn (a.s.). After seeing Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s head, Hazrat Mukhtar determined to avenge his martyrdom. He was later released on the recommendation of Abdullah bin Umar, his brother-in-law. He bravely defended the Ka’ba” against the Yazidi army. He was again imprisoned in Kufa. He was in contact with the Shias of Kufa who were preparing to revolt against Yazid after the “Massacre at Karbala”.

Hazrat Mukhtar Announces the Revolution:  After release from the prison, Hazrat Mukhtar announced that he will punish the perpetrators of “The Massacre at Karbala” and started inviting the likeminded Muslims to get united.  Hazrat Muhammad bin Hanafiya, one of Imam Ali (a.s.)’s sons, sent his message of support. Ibrahim al-Ashter, the son of Malik-e- Ashter, a brave senior army man, also joined him. The concerned and conscientious Kufans felt the need to erase the blot of treachery on them.  These factors started to build the momentum to avenge Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s martyrdom. Hazrat Mukhtar ordered his supporters to make fires, a sign of revolution.  Street clashes started in Kufa, the ruler’s forces and police surrendered and the ruler himself escaped to Hejaz.

The Yazidi forces advanced towards Kufa. Hazrat Mukhtar sent three thousand fighters under Zayd bin Anas, they defeated the Yazidi forces but Zayd died of natural death. As usual, the Umayyad propaganda machine spread rumors that Hazrat Mukhtar’s fighters were defeated, and the commander was killed! They tried to stir up chaos in Kufa but failed. The Mukhtar’s fighters captured and executed every murderer of Karbala including Hurmala bin Kahil, Sanan bin Anas and Umar bin Sa’ad and executed all of them and sent their impure (najis) heads to Madinah. Shimr bin Zil-Jaushan escaped but the fighters of Hazrat Mukhtar chased him and executed him also. After controlling the situation in Kufa, Ibrahim al-Ashtar’s brave fighters reached al-Khazar River, where he met Ubaidullah bin Ziyad’s army. The righteous army attacked the Umayyads and killed all senior commanders including Ubaid Ullah Bin Ziyad and al-Hussayn bin Numair. Ibrahim al-Ashtar’s small army defeated the huge Yazidi army.

Saving Madinah and Alawids against Umayyad and Caliph Abdullah bin Zubair: When Marwan sent a huge army to occupy Madinah, Hazrat Mukhtar sent a strong contingent of three thousand fighters to save and protect the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.)’s Madinah. Abdullah bin Zubair declared himself a caliph and sent two thousand men apparently to protect Madinah but their real aim was to attack Hazrat Mukhtar’s fighters. When his brave fighters were protecting Madinah, the Zubair ds attacked Hazrat Mukhtar’s army.  They killed some of them and brought the rest near Makkah. Hazrat Mukhtar sent five thousand fresh fighters and defeated the Zubair d’s army.

The Last stand: Abdullah Bin Zubair appointed his brother Musaiyyab as governor of Basra who formed a huge army and surprised Hazrat Mukhtar. They besieged him in the palace for four months. Musaiyyab’s cowardly army secretly conspired with Hazrat Mukhtar’s forces inside the palace and offered a deal that if they cooperated with these hypocrites and open the gates, they will pardon them.  Hazrat Mukhtar ordered his men to make street fights, but they disobeyed (because of their treachery). At last he came out with seventeen supporters and fought bravely and died as a martyr of Islam.

The conspirators who were promised pardon were slaughtered by Musaiyyab’s army and paid the price for treachery.

Source:         Behar-ul-Anwar                                                 by Allama Muhammad Baqir Majlisi (a.r.)

LYING IS A GREATER SIN

Lying or its derivatives have been used in the Glorious Qur’an 282 times. Lying is one of the Greater Sins. Some of the Ayahs of the Glorious Qur’an prohibiting lie are stated below:

Allah does not guide the liars and the unbelievers. (Surah al-Zumar Ayah3)

And pray to Allah to condemn the liars among us. (Surah Ale Imran Ayah 61)

Allah is my witness that he is a liar. (Surah al-Nur Ayah 8)

O you who believe! If an evil-doer (liar) comes to you with a report, look carefully into it, lest you harm a people in ignorance, then be sorry for what you have done.” (Surah al-Hujuraa’t Ayah 6)

Only they forge the lie who do not believe in the signs of Allah. (Surah al-Nahal Ayah 105)

In fact, Shaitan was the first liar, when he told a lie to Adam, “I am your sincere adviser” (Surah al-A’raf Ayah 21)

THE NOBLE MESSENGER (S.A.W.A.S.) SAID:

Anas ibn Malik narrates that he (s.a.w.a.s.) said, “Accept six things from me, then I will accept (and guarantee) the entrance of Heaven for you:

               When you speak, tell no lies.

               When you promise, do not break it.

               When you are trusted (by others), be honest.

               Lower your eyes (from committing sin)

               Guard your modesty.

               Hold your hands and tongues. (Khisal al-Saduq page 321)

A man asked the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), “Which action makes highest number of people the inmates of Hell? He (s.a.w.a.s.) replied, “Lying. When a believer speaks a lie, he becomes prone to commit every other sin; and when this happens, he commits kufr (disbelief) which then makes him enter Hell.” (Mustadrak al-Wasa’il)

THE GATEWAY OF KNOWLEDGE, COMMANDER OF THE FAITHFUL, IMAM ALI (A.S.) SAID:

What your eyes sees is truth and what your ears hear is for the most part untruth. Friendship is impossible with a liar. Being mute is better than lying.

THE INFALLIBLE IMAM HASAN AL-ASKARI (A.S.) SAID:

Wickedness was put inside a house, and the key (of its door) was rendered to be lies. (Bihar-ul-Anwar v. 72 page 263)

Haji Nuri has collected many Ayahs and Traditions into forty points which may be seen in the book “The Greater sins” by Ayatollah Abdul Husayn Dasteghaib.

There are Greatest Sins which include uttering falsehood against Allah (s.w.t.), the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), the Imams of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). Every kind of lie is Haram (prohibited), hence interpreting the Qur’anic Ayahs and attributing any saying to the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) to suit oneself is Haram.

Lying has some adverse effects on physical health also. Lying increases worries and stress. It produces Cortisol which in turn increases blood sugar and suppresses the immune system. It also produces Norepinephrine which starts the “flight or fight” response making the heart rate accelerate and blood pressure goes up.

Sources used: The Glorious Qur’an, A Bundle of Flowers by Sayyid Faqih Imani, Greater Sins by Ayatollah Sayyid Abdul Husayn Dasteghaib, ezsoftech.com, Dua-e-Kumayl, Sacredtexts.com 

SILENCE IS GOLD

It is a famous saying, “Silence is gold and speech is silver.”

Silence cultivates one’s spirituality and feeling of nearness to Allah. It promotes tranquility. While keeping silence, reflect about our environment. Silence guards secrets, silence controls tongue, silence gets rid of non-sense, silence sharpens the wits, and silence increases the value of our words.

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said:

You must maintain silence for prolonged periods of time for verily it drives Shaitan away and helps you in matters of your faith. (Bihar al-Anwar volume 71 page 279)

Blessed is the man who speaks good and is triumphant; or keeps silent in the face of evil and is secure. (Tabrasi, Mashkat al-Anwar page 175 second edition)

Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent. (Bukhari and Muslim)

Wisdom consists in keeping silent, and those who practice it are few. (Al-Baihaqi)

If a man is not able to say something useful, he should keep silent from inappropriate words and his silence will keep him far from Allah’s wrath and the harm which might befall him.

The Gateway of knowledge, the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) said:

He who speaks more commits more errors. He who commits more errors becomes shameless. He who is shameless will have less fear of Allah. He whose fear of Allah is less, his heart dies. He whose heart dies enters the fire. The tongue is like a beast. If you let it loose, it will wound someone. Remain silent until you are requested to speak, for that is better than speaking until you are requested to become silent. When intelligence is complete, speech becomes less. A wise man first thinks then speak, while a fool speaks first then thinks. One who guards his secrets has complete control over his affairs. Silence will create respect and dignity.

The Infallible Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said:

Silence is the mark of those who are certain of the realities which have already come to be, and about which the Pen has already written. Allah has made it a veil for the ignorant and an adornment for the man of knowledge. Through silence, patience can be set aside, and with it comes self-discipline, the sweetness of worship, removal of hardheartedness, abstinence, virtuousness and resourcefulness. Therefore, lock your tongue to speech which is not necessary, especially when you do not find anyone worth talking to; except, when you are talking specifically about matters to do with Allah. People’s destruction or salvation lies in speech and silence. Good fortune belongs to those who are given the knowledge of what is incorrect and correct in speech, and the science of silence and its advantages, for it is one of the qualities of the prophets and one of the distinguishing marks of the select. One who knows the value of his speech will also know the value of silence.

Sources used: Nahjul Balagha, Lantern of the path by Infallible Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.), Hadith.net, Virtual mosque, Islamic insight, and The Characteristics of a Muslim by Al-Balagh Foundation  

THE INFALLIBLE IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.), THE INHERITOR OF PROPHET IBRAHIM (A.S.)

The Prophet Ibrahim (a.s.) was called “The Friend of Allah”. He was referred in the Glorious Qur’an as “Hanif”. In the classical Arabic, the word “Hanaf” was used for physical disability. Later, the Arabs started using it to mean deviant, which represent not following the majority at a particular time. Prophet Ibrahim (a.s.) opened his eyes in an environment of Polytheism when everyone worshipping idols. He did not follow blindly but deviated from the prevalent trend. Hence, the word “Hanif” was derived from the root word “Hanaf”.

The word “Hanif “was used 12 times in the Glorious Qur’an. In these Ayahs, the meaning of “Hanif” represent, the deviation from false hood and inclined towards truth.

“They say, ‘Be Jews or Christians (so) you will be guided.’ Say, ‘Rather, (we follow) the religion of Ibrahim, inclining towards truth, and he was not of the polytheists.” (Al-Baqarah Ayah 135)

“Say, Allah has told the truth. So, follow the religion of Ibrahim, inclining towards truth; and he was not of the polytheists. (Ale- Imran Ayah 95)

“And who is better in religion than one who submits himself to Allah while being a good doer of good and follows the religion of Ibrahim, inclining towards truth? And Allah took Ibrahim as intimate friend.” (Al-Nisa Ayah 125)

“Indeed, I have turned my face towards He who created the heavens and the earth, inclining towards truth, and I am not of those who associate others with Allah.” (Al-An’am Ayah 79)

“Say, Indeed, my Lord has guided me to a straight path – a correct religion – the way of Ibrahim, inkling towards the truth. And he was not among those who associate others with Allah.”  (Al-An’am Ayah 161)

“And (commanded), ‘Direct your face towards the religion, inclining towards the truth, and never be of those who associate others with Allah.” (Al-Younus Ayah 105)

“Then We revealed to you, (O Muhammad), to follow the religion of Ibrahim, inclining towards the truth, and he was not of those who associate others with Allah” (Al- Nahal Ayah 123)

In Ziayrat-e-Waritha”, we recite “Peace be upon you, O inheritor of Ibrahim the intimate friend of Allah.”

Prophet Ibrahim (a.s.) was a monotheist. His entire life was focused on preserving and protecting the Unity of Allah. He continued his struggle against the polytheists. The opposing forces tried to punish him by throwing him in a mammoth fire. As his nature was to help others but seek help from the Creator only, while flying to the fire, he did not accept help from Jibril saying Allah knows my status and He will help. Imam Husayn inherited the peace and tranquility in difficulties from Prophet Ibrahim. Although, Imam Husayn (a.s.) was an infallible Imam appointed by Allah through his parents and the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), but it may be linked with the Glorious Qur’an Surah Al-Baqarah Ayah 124, “When His Lord tested Ibrahim and he satisfied the test, He said, “I am appointing you as the leader (Imam) of mankind.” Ibrahim asked, “Will this leadership (Imamate) also continue through my descendants?” The Lord replied, “The unjust do not have the right to exercise My authority.”

Similarly, Imam Husayn (a.s.) inherited the “Great Sacrifice” from Prophet Ibrahim as stated in Surah al-Sa’ffat Ayahs 102 to 108, “When they both agreed, and Ibrahim laid down his son on the side of his face (for slaughtering), We called to him, Ibrahim! You have fulfilled what you were commanded to do in your dream. Thus, We reward the righteous ones. It was certainly an open trial. We ransomed his son with a great sacrifice and perpetuated his praise in later generations.”

In fact, The Master of Martyrs Imam Husayn (a.s.) and his son Ali al-Akbar surpassed the Prophets Ibrahim and Ismail as Imam witnessed the martyrdom of son Ali al-Akbar while Ibrahim blindfolded his eyes preparing to slaughter Ismail. And, Ismail submitting to his father’s dream said that he will be among the patients as one exercises patience in the wake of any calamity, while Ali al-Akbar on way to Karbala, when Imam Husayn (a.s.) said, “Inna Lillahe wa Inna Elaihe Ra’jeoon”, Ali al-Akbar inquired if they were on the Right Path, when Imam Husayn confirmed then Ali al-Akbar said, “then we are not worried whether death takes us, or we fall on death!” Please refer my article “The Great Sacrifice” on this blog.

Sources: The Glorious Qur’an (English translation) by Muhammad Sarwar, WIKIPEDIA, Story of the Holy Ka’ba and its people by S.M.R.Shabbar

THE BEARERS AND THE MEMORIZERS OF THE GLORIOUS QUR'AN

The rewards for those Muslims who learn, memorize and act upon the Glorious Qur’an are great.

The Glorious Qur’an itself recommends association with it:

“We have made the Qur’an easy to understand (remember), but is there anyone who will pay attention” (54:17)

“In fact, Qur’an consists of illustrious verses that exist in the hearts of those who have knowledge. No one rejects Our revelations except the unjust ones.” (29:49)

“Thus, recite from Qur’an as much as possible” (73:20)

The Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) said about the Glorious Qur’an:

If you want a happy life, death of a martyr, salvation, shadow on the day of heat then study Qur’an the Word of Merciful, shield from Satan and heavy weight on the scale of deeds. He is the best of best who learns Qur’an. He told Abu Dharr, “Allah will not punish a heart in which the Glorious Qur’an resides.” Allah will reveal to earth not to eat the flesh of the memorizer of Qur’an. Whoever recites the Qur’an from the book, Allah reduces his parent’s punishments. For calamities from the sky, Allah saves the builders of mosques, reciters of Salat on time and the bearers of Qur’an. A memorizer of Qur’an who acts upon it, Allah will send him to the Paradise and he may intercede 10 family members. There are levels in the Paradise by the number of Ayahs in the Qur’an. It is said to him, “Rise and read for every Ayah a level.” Whoever learns, teaches and implements Qur’an, will be taken to Paradise. The carriers of Qur’an are draped in the light of Allah, who are closest to Allah. The most honorable worshippers to Allah after the Prophets are the scholars, then the bearers of Qur’an, they leave the world just like Prophets, they are resurrected with the Prophets.

The Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali (a.s.) said:

“Learn the Holy Qur’an for it is the best narration, and grasp it for it is the spring of the heart, and heal yourself with its light for it is a remedy for the chests and master its recitation for it is the most beneficial of accounts. There are two kinds of scholars, one who uphold and implements their knowledge, they are saved, and another who disregards their knowledge, they face destruction.

The Infallible Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said:

It is incumbent upon the believer to not pass away till he learns the Holy Qur’an, or be in the process of learning it. It is desirable to the Muslims to recite from the Holy Qur’an every day fifty Ayahs. Whoever recites the Holy Qur’an when he is young believer, the Holy Qur’an will infuse into their blood and flesh and Allah will place him with angels and the Holy Qur’an will shield him on the Day of Resurrection. Three will complain to Allah; A deserted mosque, where its people do not pray, a scholar among the ignorant, and a Holy Qur’an gathering dust and not recited with. The reward for memorization will be double when one faces hardship in memorizing.

  

Source: Pursuing Excellence, The Guide to Memorizing the Holy Qur’an by S.L. Al-Hakim (Usul al-Kafi, Man La Yahzarul Faqih, Tahzib ul-Ahkam, Al-Istibsar, Mizan al-Hikmah, Nahjul Balaghah, Mustadrak al-Wasa’il, Sayyid Sistani’s Simplified Jurisprudence, Al-Khisal, Kanzu l-Amal) 

THE GOLDEN HADEES-E-KISA IN THE BOOKS OF AHLE SUNNAT BROTHERS

The Hadees-e-Kisa had been narrated by the Lady of Paradise Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) as described by the trusted companion of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), Jabir ibn Abdullah Ansari.

It may be noted that Allah (s.w.t.) confirms the truthfulness of AhlulBayt in Surah Ale Imraan Ayah 61, “Should anyone disputes with you concerning your prophesy, after the knowledge has come to you, then say, “Come: Let us call our sons and your sons, our women and your women, our souls and your souls, then let us pray earnestly and call down Allah’s curse upon the liars.”

The Hadees-e-Kisa may be narrated in short as; Once, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) came to the Lady of Paradise, Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) and told her that he was feeling weakness. She (s.a.) brought a Yamani cloak and placed it on him. Shortly, Imam Hasan (a.s.) came in and inquired from her that he could feel the sacred fragrance of our Grandfather. She told him that his grandfather (s.a.w.a.s.) was resting under the cloak. He went near the cloak, offered his salutations and sought permission to enter the cloak which was granted, and he joined his grandfather. Subsequently, Imam Husyan (a.s.), Imam Ali (a.s.) and Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) also joined the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) under the cloak. At that time, the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) addressed Allah (s.w.t.) saying, “O Allah! These are my Ahlul Bayt”

Allah (s.w.t.) said to the angels and the residents of Heavens, “I have not created this universe but for the love of these Five persons under this cloak.” The Archangel Jibra’il inquired as to who were those Five persons? Allah (s.w.t.) replied, “They are the Ahlul Bayt of the Prophet and the Assets of the Prophet hood. They are Fatima, her father, her husband and her two sons.” Archangel Jibra’il sought permission if he could join them and he was granted permission. He descended on earth, offered salutations to the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and sought permission to join them which was granted. He then narrated the Ayah of Tatheer, “Indeed Allah desires to repel all impurities from you O Ahlul Bayt, and purify you with a through purification.” (33:33)

It is very important to note from the above narration that Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) described that Allah (s.w.t.) addressed the angels and the residents of Heavens that He (s.w.t.) created the universe but for the love of the Panjetan under the cloak. At this stage the Archangel Jibra’il had not yet descended on the earth. Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.) became aware of Allah (s.w.t.)’s address long before the Divine Messenger-Jibra’il descended on earth!

The Hadees-e-Kisa, which is considered “Mutawatir”, have been reported by hundreds of scholars both Shia and Sunni. Some of the Sunni scholars are as under:

Sahih Muslim volume 3 number 5955 and volume 15 page 190

Hakim in Mustadrak volume 2 page 416

Baihique in Sunan al-Kubra

Tabari in Usd al-Ghabah volume 3 page 33

Tafsir Ibne Kathir volume 3page 485 volume 6 page 369

Allama Suyuti in Tafsir Durr al-Manthur volume 5page 376 and volume 5 page 198 and 605

Sahih Tirmizi

Tahavi in Mushkil al-athar volume 1 pages 332-336

Haitham in Majma al-Zawaid

Masnad Ahmad bin Hambal v1 pages 330-331, v 3 page 252, v4 page 107, v 7 page 415,

Sawa’iq al-Muhriqa by Ibne Hajar Makki page 144

Ibne Athir in Usd al-Ghaba volume 2 page 12 and volume 4 page 79

Tabari in Dalail Imama page 21

Zamakhshari in al-Kashshaf volume 1 pages 193, 368-370

Allama Fakhr ad din Razi in Tafsir al-Kabir volume 8 page 247 and volume 2 page 700

Fadha’il al-Sahaba by Ahmad ibn Hambal volume 2 page 578 #978

Al-Khasa’is by al-Nisa’I page 4 and 8

Tafsir AL-Qurtubi

Tarikh al-Khatib al Baghdadi volume 10

Sources used: WIKIPEDIA, Tafsir by Allama Sayyid Murtadha Askari, WIKISHIA.COM, Yaali.webs.com

WHAT IS SLEEP?

Sleep is translated in Arabic as “Naum”. Naum and its derivatives have been used in the Glorious Qur’an 9 times.

1.      Did the people of the towns think themselves secure from Our Wrath that could strike them at night during their sleep. (Surah al-A’raf Ayah 97)

2.    Allah exists. There is no Ilah (one deserving to be worshipped) but He, the Everlasting and the Guardian of life. Drowsiness or sleep do not seize Him. (Ayatal Kursi; Surah al-Baqarah Ayah 255)

3.    Your sleeping during the night and in the day your seeking His favors are evidence (of the truth) for the people who have hearing. (Surah al-Rum Ayah 23)

4.    It is He who has made the night as a covering for you, sleep as a rest for you, and the day for you to rise again. (Surah al-Furqan Ayah 47)

5.    Allah preserves the souls when they die as well as those which did not die during people’s sleep. He withholds those souls which he has decreed to die and releases the others for an appointed time. In this there is evidence (of the Truth) for the thoughtful people. (Surah al-Zumar Ayah 42)

6.    A visitor from your Lord circled around the garden during the night while they were asleep. (Surah al-Qalam Ayah 19)

7.    …made sleep for you to rest. (Surah al-Naba’ Ayah 9)  

The modern scholars have varied ideas about sleep; some of them regard sleep as reduced blood flow in the brain, some of them treat it as a chemical reaction on the nerves, yet some others call it the strain of muscles. Sleep is related to the spirit or soul. The Glorious Qur’an defines sleep as a partial death when the link between the body and the soul is minimal. Allah the Omnipotent directs this process resulting in the suspension of the consciousness and body movements but keeping the heartbeat, respiration and blood circulation. Ayah 42 of Surah al-Zumr, as stated above describes it. As stated in Tafsir as-Safi and Maj’ma al-Bayan, the Infallible imam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) said, “Whoever sleeps, his “Nafs” ascends towards skies but his “Rooh” or soul remains with the body keeping a connection like solar rays. When Allah decrees for his death, the “Rooh” responds to the call of “Nafs” and joins it. If Allah permits his life for an appointed time, the “Nafs” returns to the “Rooh” in the body.”

The Gateway of Knowledge, the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) directed his companions as, “A Muslim should not sleep in “ritually impure” or “Janabat”, perform wudhu before sleeping. If water is not available, then perform “Tayammum” as the faithful’s soul “Rooh” ascends toward skies. If his time of death had come, He places him in His Mercy. If the time of his conclusive death has not been decreed, then returns it to his body.”

Looked at another way, that our nightly sleep, besides performing the function of rest to our physical life, gives us the foretaste of what we call death, which does not end our personality. Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.) said, “Sleep is the brother of death. Make sleep your last affair in this world; remember Allah with your heart and your tongue.”

Hazrat Ibne Abbas said, “Nafs is the key to the intellect which is separated on sleeping. Rooh is responsible for maintaining the body and it leaves the body on death.”

Sources used: The Glorious Qur’an (Urdu translation) by Maulana Farman Ali (r.a.)

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

                          Lantern of the Path by the Infallible Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (a.s.)

SHIMR ZIL-JUAUSHAN (L.A.), THE MURDERER OF THE KING OF MARTYRS IMAM HUSAYN (A.S.)

Shimr (l.a.) was the son of Shurahbil. He was a Kharijite. Different explanations are given as to why he was called “Zil-Juashan” including that he was the first Arab to wear an armor. He belonged to the tribe of Bani Kilab. He converted to Islam on the eve of “The Victory of Makkah” when polytheists surrendered to the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). He (l.a.) was one of the “Ta’be’in” – one who had seen a companion of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.).

In the Battle of Siffin, he fought with the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali al-Murtaza (a.s.) but later became a Kharijite. When Hujr bin Adi (r.a.), one of the companions of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and Imam Ali (a.s.), was arrested by Muawiya, Shimr (l.a.) was one of the people who falsely testified that Hujr had become an apostate and a rebel.

When Hazrat Muslim bin Aqil (a.s.) went to Kufa in the year 60 A.H., Shimr (l.a.) gave a speech saying that Hazrat Muslim (a.s.) was a rebel and warned the Kufans of Yazid’s army. He (l.a.) also encouraged Ubaididullah ibne Ziyad to be violent towards the grandson of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), Imam Husayn (a.s.).

Shimr (l.a.) arrived in Karbala on the 9^th of Muharram 61 A.H. with 4,000 soldiers. He tried to influence the Commander of Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s forces, Hazrat Abbas (a.s.) with an amnesty for him and his brothers, but he rejected it.

On the Day of Ashura (10^th Muharram), he (l.a.) was the commander of the left wing of Umar ibne Saad’s forces. He (l.a.) tried to approach the Imam (a.s.)’s camps but he was faced with fire-wood around it. Shimr (l.a.) said, “O Husayn! You seem impatient to enter the fire and could not wait for Qiyamat” (Tabari v.4 pages 250-251) When Zuhair bin Qayn was addressing the Kufans inviting them to support Imam Husayn (a.s.), Shimr (l.a.) threw an arrow towards him and insulted him. When Abdallah bin Umayr Kalbi was martyred, Shimr (l.a.) ordered his slave to murder his wife who was sitting next to her husband’s body. When most of the companions of imam Husayn (a.s.) were martyred, the Kufans attacked the camps and Shimr (l.a.) called for fire to burn the tents.

Sibt ibne Jauzi relates in his “Tazkirah” from Hisham bin Muhammad Kalbi that when Imam Husayn (a.s.) saw them persistent on killing him, he brought the Glorious Qur’an and opening placed on his head and called out, “The Qur’an and my grandfather, the Prophet of Allah, are the judge between yourselves and me. O people how do you consider the shedding of my blood lawful? Am I not the grandson of your Prophet? Has not the tradition of my grandfather reached you regarding me and my brother that we are the Masters of the youth of Paradise? Then ask Jabir (ibne Abdullah Ansari), Zaid bin Arqam, and Abu Saeed Khudri. Is not Ja’far at Tayyar my uncle?” Shimr (l.a.) replied, “You shall shortly hasten towards ‘the raging fire (of Hell) (Allah’s refuge).” The Imam (a.s.) said, “Allah is great! My grandfather the Prophet of Allah informed me, that he saw a dog filling his throat with blood of his Ahlul Bayt (a.s.), and I perceive that it is none other than you.”   

Shimr (l.a.) commanded his soldiers to shoot the Imam (a.s.)’s body with arrows, and then attack him. According to al-Waqidi, Shimr (l.a.) stood on the sacred body of Imam Husayn (a.s.) with his horse. According to some reports, Shimr (l.a.) sat on his sacred chest and then cut his holy head from behind. He (l.a.) wanted to murder Imam Sajjad (a.s.) also.

Shimr (l.a.) took the daughters of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and other women of his companions from Karbala to Kufa then to Damascus where he (l.a.) delivered an insulting speech about Imam Husayn (a.s.) and his companions.

Sources used: Tabari, WIKIPEDIA, Nafs al-Muhimma by Shaikh Abbas Qummi, Tazkirah by Sibt ibn Jauzi, Muntazar.com, Wikishia.net  

UMAR IBNE SA'AD, THE COMMANDER OF THE ARMY OF YAZID IN KARBALA

The intention of writing this article is to raise awareness in a spirit of impartiality and cordiality.

Umar ibne Sa’ad was the son of the Companion of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.), Sa’ad bin Abi Waqas. As per the Muslim historians, Umar ibne Sa’ad was considered as among the “Ta’bein”-one who had seen a companion.

In the year 51 A.H., on the request of Ubaiydullah ibne Ziyad, Umar ibne Sa’ad gave testimony that Hujr ibne Aday had become an infidel and Mua’wiya used his testimony to martyr him.

He betrayed Muslim bin Aqeel (a.s.) in Kufa when he spoke to Umar ibne Sa’ad his last will in confidence to let Imam Husayn (a.s.) know the changed conditions in Kufa and not to travel to Kufa. Instead, Umar ibne Sa’ad disclosed the will to Ubaydullah ibne Ziayd, the enemy of Imam Husayn (a.s.).

Ubaydullah ibne Ziyad offered him the governorship of the state of Rey, in Persia, on the condition that he should fight Imam Husayn (a.s.) in Karbala. Umar ibne Sa’ad agreed and arrived in Karbala with 4,000 horsemen on 3^rd of Muharram 61 A.H.

On the 7^th Muharram, he deployed 500 soldiers on the River Euphrates to deprive water to Imam Husayn (a.s.)’ camps.

Before the start of hostilities, Imam Husayn (a.s.) met with Umar ibne Sa’ad and tried to save him from the road to Hell by telling him about Imam’s identity that he was the grandson of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.) and the son of the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali (a.s.) and the Lady of Paradise Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.).

On the morning of Ashura, Imam Husayn (a.s.) addressed Umar ibne Sa’ad, “Will you kill me and think that you will become the governor of Rey? By God, I swear that you will not taste the freshness of its waters.” Umar ibne Sa’ad shot an arrow towards Imam Husayn (a.s.)’s camp and said, “Witness that I am the first person who shot an arrow”

After Hazrat Ali al-Akbar (a.s.) went in the battlefield, Imam Husayn (a.s.) cursed Umar ibne Sa’ad saying, “May God cut your lineage and put you under the rule of the who beheads you in the bed.” During the rise of Hazrat Mukhtar, Umar ibne Sa’ad was killed in the bed and his son Hafs was also killed.

When Imam Husayn (a.s.) took his 6 months old infant and asked the so-called Muslims to quench the thirst of the baby, Umar ibne Sa’ad shouted to Hurmula and said, “Silence Husayn” and the arch man sent a three-pronged arrow normally used to slaughter camels which penetrated the infant’s throat who was martyred instantly.

When Imam Husayn (a.s.) was seriously wounded and fell on the ground, Umar ibne Sa’ad approached him and stood above his sacred body and told his soldiers, “Finish him and behead him” After the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (a.s.) and his companions, Umar ibne Sa’ad ordered to trample over their bodies by the horses. He also ordered to loot and set on fire Imam’s tents and snatch the head covers of the daughters of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.)!

Sources used:

Tarihk al-Sagheer (v.1 page 75), Siyar al-Alam al-Nubla by Dhahabi (v4 page 349), WIKIPEDIA, Encyclopedia Britannica, Wickishia.net, Maqtal abi Mukhnaf, Maqtal Abd al-Razzaq Muqarram/Yasin Jibouri, rudabannasir.wordpress.com

THE INFALLIBLE IMAM MUSA AL-KAZIM (A.S.)

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

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

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

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

Ibne Hajar al-Haytami said: “The patience and forbearance of the Imam (a.s.) was such that he was given the title of “al-Kazim” (one who bears up his anger).” He devoted his nights in the prayers and during the days, he fast. Like his ancestors, he always forgave those who did oppressed him.

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

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

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

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

Sayings of the Imam (a.s.):

No charity is superior than giving a helping hand to the weak.

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

Moderation is half of the livelihood.

Amicability is half of the intelligence.

Hastiness is the true clumsiness.

The one whose two days are equal is a loser.

Never be an arrogant, for one who has even a little arrogance in his heart will not enter Paradise.

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

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

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

Sources used:

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

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

Living Right Way                                                                              by Ayatullah Jawad Tehrani

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

            (58/2017)                                                                      TAHAWWUR A MIRZA

THE INFALLIBLE IMAM ZAIN 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, Yazd’jurd. He was born in Madinah on 5^th Sha’baan 38 A.H. He was entrusted with the Divine Imamate on the Day of Ashura 61 A.H. After the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (a.s.) in Karbala, he led the imprisoned women of Ahlul Bayt 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 the AhlulBayt and explained the objectives of their sacrifices which were 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 to mourn the martyrs of Karbala. This was the first assembly of mourning (Majlis) for the martyrs. Imam Zayn-al-Abidin and the AhlulBayt returned to Madinah on route to Karbala.

The Imam (a.s..) led a quiet life after his return to Madinah. Because of the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (a.s.), the Muslim Ummah realized the gravity of the sin and crime of Yazid and the people rose against his tyrannical rule. Yazid’s army ruthlessly suppressed the revolt in Madinah. They turned the Sacred Mosque of the Prophet into a stable for horses, killed hundreds of innocent Muslims including many companions of the Noble Messenger, and destroyed the chastity of numerous females on the clear instructions of Yazid. These beasts destroyed Madinah 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 progeny of the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.). His supplications were collected in the famous book, “Saheefa-e-Sajjadia”. In eloquence, 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” or a Treatise of Rights, which contains the rights of human beings, including the rights of every part of the human body. If one compares this book with the United Nation’s “Charter of Human Rights”, it appears to have been thoroughly influenced by this Treatise. 

He loved and cared for the poor. The Imam would carry bags of bread on his back at night, without disclosing his identity, would go around the streets of Madinah and distribute it among the needy. Even when he gave alms to the needy, he would cover his face not to embarrass the recipient!

Hisham bin Abdul Malik, the heir of the caliph, was visiting Makkah for Hajj and was sitting in a chair waiting to kiss the Black Stone in Ka’ba, 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 about the identity of the young man. 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’ba knows him. He is the son of Fatima and Ali and the Noble Messenger (s.a.w.a.s.).” Hisham became furious, stopped the financial aid and imprisoned him. When Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) heard about it, he sent some money to Farazdaq who said that he composed that poetry for the love of Allah 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 and said, “Martyrdom was the grace and inheritance of Ahlul Bayt”. The Imam replied that humiliation was not the inheritance of Ahlul Bayt!

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 instructed by Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) to write the story of Karbala in a narrative form which he complied. It became a part of the authentic account of the tragedy of Karbala and became a source of majalis all over the Muslim world.

Walid bin Abdul Malik, the Umayyad monarch 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-al-Abidin (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 bite the toe of the Imam (ads.) 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 the worship. It was at that moment that an angel called three times: “You are the embellishment of the worshippers.” Or “Zayn-al-Abidin”

Among the sayings of Imam Zayn-al-Abidin (a.s.) are, “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. His father, Imam Husayn (a.s.) inquired about his health and asked 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 Fate” or “Qaza-o-Qadr” The Imam (a.s.) was very pleased with the answer.

The Imam’s face would turn yellow while preparing for wudu and he would tremble performing prayers due to fear of Allah. Once, Imam was praying and young Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) 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 his clothes being wet.

After his return from Karbala, his uncle Mohammad-e-Hanafiyya, asked the Imam to give him the sacred assets of Imamate as he was then the elder in the family. The Imam first advised him that the imamate is a Divine responsibility and when he disagreed, he requested his uncle to accompany him to the Holy Ka’ba and let the Black Stone decide about the Imamate. Both offered salaam to the Black Stone but his salaam was replied by the Black Stone and further said, “Imamate is the right of Zayn-al-Abidin”

At the time of the destruction of Madinah, Marwan, who was an arch enemy of Ahlul Bayt, 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 told him that he had recognized him and 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 (a.s.) in Madinah. 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 of polluted water, the Imam asked him, “What is it?” He said “water”. The Imam said, “Look again carefully” When he looked carefully he saw the red gems instead of water. The Imam told him to take it and 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. 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 Gardens of Fadak to Sayyida Fatima Zahra (s.a.)’s progeny and ordered to stop the sinful tradition of cursing Imam Ali from the mosques as started by Moa’via bin Abu Sufiyan.

          Source: Behar-ul-Anwar by Allama Baqir Majlisi