What does the term “Allah” mean?
The Arabic word Allah is a contraction of the words “al” and “ilah,” and literally means “The God.” Believers in Islam understand the word ‘Allah’ to be the proper name for the Creator as found in the Qur’an. The name Allah is analogous to Eloh, a Semitic term found in the divine scriptures revealed to Muhammad’s predecessors Moses and Jesus (may peace be upon them all).
The use of the term Allah is not confined to believers in Islam alone -Arabic- speaking Christians and Jews also use Allah in reference to God, demonstrating thereby that followers of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism believe in a common monotheistic Creator.
How is God viewed in Islam?
The Qur’an, the divinely-revealed scripture of Islam, contains numerous verses describing the nature of God. The role of human beings as creations of God upon the earth and their relationship with God are also discussed extensively in the sacred text as is shown in the following verses:
“Say: He is God, the One, the Eternal, Absolute. He does not beget, nor is He begotten, and there is none like unto Him.” (Ihlas 112: 1-4)
“It is He who brought you forth from the wombs of your mothers when you knew nothing, and He gave you hearing and sight and intelligence and affections that you may give thanks.” (Nahl 16: 78)
“No vision can grasp Him, but His grasp is over all vision. He is above all comprehension, yet is acquainted with all things.” (An’am 6: 103)
Muslims believe that God has no partners or associates who share in His divinity or authority. Muslims also believe that God is transcendent and unlike His creations, and thus has no physical form. Nor is God believed to exist in (or be represented by) any material object. A number of divine attributes or “names,” which serve to describe God, are found in the Qur’an. Some commonly known attributes include the Most Merciful, the Most Forgiving, the Most High, the Unique, and the Everlasting, among others.
In Islam, human beings, like other creations, are seen as completely unlike God, though they may aspire to exhibit various attributes manifested by God, such as justice or mercy. Furthermore, even while God is believed to be beyond traditional human perception, the Qur’an states:
“He is with you wherever you may be” (Hadid 57: 5).
For Muslims, God’s Oneness heightens the awareness that ultimately all life is bound by Divine Law emanating from a singular source and that life has a meaning and purpose which revolves around the consciousness of God’s presence.
Moreover, belief in a singular Creator compels conscientious Muslims to view all humanity as one extended family, and treat others with justice and equity. Respect for the environment and natural resources also follows from the Muslim view of God, of His unity.
Where is Allah?
We know by experience that we can not perceive every being. For example, in darkness we can not see far more than a hundred metres, but we do not say that there is nothing beyond this distance. Similarly we are intelligent beings, but we can not see our reasons. Likewise, as we can not see the God, we can not say there is no God. A believer is sure that Allah, knows and sees everything and nobody can escape Allah’s ever-watchful eye for a single moment. In fact, Allah is nearer to us than our own jugular-vein. So, a true Believer does not commit a sin either secretly or in the darkness of night, nor does he feels himself alone wherever he is. Because the believer has the firm conviction that Allah sees everything all the time and He (Allah) is everywhere. This can be seen in the following verses:
“Allah is He who created seven firmaments and of the Earth a similar number. Through the midst of them descends His command that you may know that Allah has power over all things and that Allah comprehends all things in (His) knowledge.” (Talaq 65 :12)
“It was We who created man and We know what dark suggestions his soul, makes to him, for We are nearer to him than (his) jugular-vein.” (Qaf 50: 16)
We understand from these verses that Allah has created everything on Earth and in the Heavens for the service and comfort of humans.
“Allah is the Light of the Heavens and the Earth the parable of His light is as if there were a Niche and within it a lamp: the lamp enclosed in glass: Glass as it were a brilliant star... Allah sets forth parables for men and Allah knows all things.” (Nûr 24: 35)
God’s being the Light means that He is everywhere and nothing can escape from His existence. The desire to see God like other objects is a primitive way.
Once, a Bedouin was asked what made an unsophisticated man like him believe in Allah.
Bedouin: “Do you see these marks in the sand?”
Man: “Yes.”
Bedouin: “What do they tell you?”
Man: “A camel went by.”
Bedouin: “Did you see the camel?”
Man: “No, but these footprints in the sand suggest that a camel made them.”
Bedouin: “Do you see these mountains?”
Man: “Yes.”
Bedouin: “They are indicative to me that Allah made them.”
Imam Abu Hanifa was asked by an atheist: “What is the evidence pointing to the existence of Allah?” and he replied, “Forget it! At the moment, I am busy thinking about this ship. People tell me there is a big ship, it contains different goods on board. There is no one to steer it, no one maintaining it. Yet, this ship keeps going back and forth; it even traverses big waves on the oceans; it stops at the locations that it is supposed to stop at; it continues in the direction that it is supposed to head. This ship has no captain and no one planning its trips.”
The atheist who posed the question interrupted and exclaimed, “What kind of strange and silly thought is this? How can any intelligent person think that some thing like this can occur?”
Abu Hanifa said, “I feel sorry about your state! You can not imagine one ship running without someone looking after its affairs; yet you think that for this whole world, which runs exactly and precisely, there is no one who looks after it, and no one owns it.”
Who controls the Universe?
Allah is the Controller of the Universe. Because, the vast and majestic universe with its flawless system clearly indicates that there is One Creator and One Supreme Controller. As we look around in our environment, we see that every family has a head; every school has a principal; every city or town has a mayor. Moreover, we know beyond doubt that every product is the work of a certain producer, and that every beautiful art is the creation of some great artist. All this is obvious, yet it does not satisfy the hunger for knowledge and the curiosity of man about the great things in the world.
One often wonders at the beauties of nature with its scenic charms and marvels; the almost endless horizons in the sky and their far-reaching expansions; the ceaseless succession of day and night in the most orderly manner; the course of the sun, the moon, and the great stars; the world of animate and inanimate objects, the continuous process and evolution of man generation after generation. One often wonders because one would like to know the maker and maintainer of all these things with which we live and which we immensely enjoy.
Can we find an explaination of the great universe? Is there any convincing interpretation of the secret of existence? We realize that no city can prosperously exist without sound administration. We also realize that nothing comes into being on its own. In addition, we observe that the universe exists and functions in the most orderly manner, and that it has survived for hundreds of thousands of years.
When we think about the unique system of the world we find no conflict in it. The Sun, the Moon and the Galaxy obey the same Supreme Authority. Everything in the universe works in harmony and cooperation like various parts of the human body. The limbs of the human body seem to have different functions, but they all serve the same purpose. Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an:
“If there were in the Heavens and on Earth other Gods besides Allah there would be confusion in both.” (Anbiya 21: 22)
Can we, then, say that all this is accidental and haphazard? Can we attribute the existence of man and the whole world to mere chance?
In the world, then, there must be a Great Force in action to keep everything in order. In the beautiful nature there must be a Great Artist who creates the most charming pieces of art and produces everything for a special purpose in life. This force is the strongest of all forces, and this Artist is the greatest of all artists.The true believers and deeply enlightened people recognize this Artist and call Him Allah or God. They call Him God because He is the Creator and the Chief Architect of the world, the Originator of life and the Provider of all things in existence. God signifies his creation and providence over universe in the following verses:
“And We have made, above you, seven tracts (paths of motion in the visible heavens) and we are never unmindful of (our) creation.” (Mu’minûn 23: 17)
“It is Allah who sustains the Heavens and the Earth, lest they cease (to function) and if they should fail, there is none can sustain them thereafter: verily He is most forbearing and forgiving.” (Fâtır 35: 41)
What does Tawhîd mean?
One word in Arabic for saying or affirming that “God is One” is the word Tawhîd. Tawhîd is the affirmation that there is only One Creator who deserves our praise and gratitude and whose guidance needs to be followed for our own good and benefit. Tawhîd has two main parts:
1) To believe in and affirm that there is only One Creator and Sustainer of the universe;
2) To affirm that only the One Creator deserves to be worshipped and obeyed.
The first duty of a conscious Muslim is to declare his faith that “there is no god but Allah, Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.”
Tawhîd is clearly stated in the surah of Ihlas as follows:
“Say: He is God, the One, the Eternal, Absolute. He does not beget, nor is He begotten, and there is none like unto Him.” (Ihlas 112: 1-4)
Tawhîd, i.e. monotheism or unity of God has its counterpart in natural world as monism. That means that there is a unifying principle / telos or aim in nature. For example, to make it possible for a tree to grow; soil, water, sun, etc. come together and serve the one aim: to grow the tree. This unifying principle in nature is set by God, and this is reflection of tawhîd in nature.
“Do they not observe the birds above them spreading their wings and folding them in? None can uphold them except (Allah) most Gracious: Truly It is He that watches over all things.” (Mulk 67: 19)
“There is not any Animal (that lives) on the Earth nor a Being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communicates like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the End.” (An’am 6: 38)
Worshipping to the lifeless objects or to men is the primitive way of acting. So, a faithful can not adore but God.
God Exalted says in our Holy Book:
“Or have they taken for worship (other) Gods, besides Him? Say, bring your convincing proof...” (Anbiya 21: 22)
The objects which are worshipped by people are, essentially, parts of the universe and they are also created by a Supreme Creator. They can not create or sustain anything including themselves. So they can not deserve to be adored.
The Life of Hz. MUHAMMAD (Pbuh) etiketine sahip kayıtlar gösteriliyor. Tüm kayıtları göster
The Life of Hz. MUHAMMAD (Pbuh) etiketine sahip kayıtlar gösteriliyor. Tüm kayıtları göster
Basic Islamic Beliefs
The central concept in Islam, as reflected in the Shahadah, is Tawhîd, or Oneness of God. For Muslims, there is but One God who is Lord and Sovereign of Creation, and devotion, allegiance, and obedience must first of all be to Him. This view serves as the foundation from which the basic beliefs of Islam emanate, since God is recognized as the Source for all knowledge and understanding. More specifically, the beliefs of Muslims are delineated and described in the Qur’an and in the sayings and traditions of Prophet Muhammad. The practice of Islam is based upon belief in One God (Allah), creations (humanly perceived and unperceived) of God, prophetic leadership, revealed guidance, and a Day of Judgement, the details of which are provided below.
The full meaning of Faith and Belief in Islam is not, by any means, something nominal or mere formality. Faith in Islam is a state of happiness acquired by virtue of positive action and constructive conceptions as well as dynamic and effective measures.
The Holy Qur’an and the traditions of Muhammad define these required measures and establish the standards which build up a meaningful Faith. Thus, the true believers are:
1) Those who believe in God, His angels, His Books as completed by the Qur’an, His messengers with Muhammad being the Last of them all, the Day of Final Judgement, the absolute knowledge and wisdom of God.
2) Those who trust God always and enjoy unshakable confidence in Him.
3) Those who spend in the way of God of what He has given them in the form of wealth, life, health, knowledge, experience, and so on.
4) Those who observe their daily prayers regularly as well as the weekly and annual congregations.
5) Those who pay their religious taxes (alms or Zakah) to the rightfull beneficiaries (individual or institutions), the minimum of which is two and a half percent of the annual ‘net’ income, or of the total value of stocks if in business-after discounting all expenses.
6) Those who love God and His Messenger most, and love their fellow men sincerely for the sake of God alone.
7) Those who say the truth and engage in good talk, or else abstain.
It is clear that the very meaning of Faith makes Islam penetrate deeply and constructively into every aspect of life. According to Islam, true Faith has a decisive effect on the spiritual and material lot of man, and also on his personal and social behaviour.
The full meaning of Faith and Belief in Islam is not, by any means, something nominal or mere formality. Faith in Islam is a state of happiness acquired by virtue of positive action and constructive conceptions as well as dynamic and effective measures.
The Holy Qur’an and the traditions of Muhammad define these required measures and establish the standards which build up a meaningful Faith. Thus, the true believers are:
1) Those who believe in God, His angels, His Books as completed by the Qur’an, His messengers with Muhammad being the Last of them all, the Day of Final Judgement, the absolute knowledge and wisdom of God.
2) Those who trust God always and enjoy unshakable confidence in Him.
3) Those who spend in the way of God of what He has given them in the form of wealth, life, health, knowledge, experience, and so on.
4) Those who observe their daily prayers regularly as well as the weekly and annual congregations.
5) Those who pay their religious taxes (alms or Zakah) to the rightfull beneficiaries (individual or institutions), the minimum of which is two and a half percent of the annual ‘net’ income, or of the total value of stocks if in business-after discounting all expenses.
6) Those who love God and His Messenger most, and love their fellow men sincerely for the sake of God alone.
7) Those who say the truth and engage in good talk, or else abstain.
It is clear that the very meaning of Faith makes Islam penetrate deeply and constructively into every aspect of life. According to Islam, true Faith has a decisive effect on the spiritual and material lot of man, and also on his personal and social behaviour.
Faith ( Iman )
What is the declaration of Faith?
A Muslim declares his faith by reciting: “La-ilaha-illal-lah, Muham-madu’r-Rasulullah”
These Arabic words mean: “There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” This declaration is called Kalimah at-Tawhîd. It summarizes whole of Islamic belief. The first part (La-ilaha-illal-lah) is about the ONEness of Allah (Tawhîd in Arabic), while the second part (Muhammad-ur-Rasulullah) concerns the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him).
We already know that we belong to Allah and He is our Master. So, in order to behave like the servants of our Creator we must practise Salah, Zakah, Savm and Hajj faithfully and we must shape our life around Shahadah. If we perform them regularly and correctly we come closer to Allah our Creator and Sustainer.
What are the basic beliefs of Iman (Faith)?
The Basic Beliefs of Iman are to believe in:
1) Allah
2) Angles of Allah
3) Books of Allah
4) Messengers of Allah
5) The day of Judgement
6) Life after death and supremacy of Divine Will (Al-Qadar).
These beliefs have been declared precisely in the faith in detail:
“I believe in Allah, in His Angels, in His Books, in His Messengers, in the Last Day (the Day of Judgement) in the life after death and in the fact that everything good or bad operates under a law laid down by Allah the Almighty.”
The person who confirms these principles by word of mouth and certifies them with his heart is considered as having entered the religion of Islam.
A Muslim declares his faith by reciting: “La-ilaha-illal-lah, Muham-madu’r-Rasulullah”
These Arabic words mean: “There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” This declaration is called Kalimah at-Tawhîd. It summarizes whole of Islamic belief. The first part (La-ilaha-illal-lah) is about the ONEness of Allah (Tawhîd in Arabic), while the second part (Muhammad-ur-Rasulullah) concerns the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him).
We already know that we belong to Allah and He is our Master. So, in order to behave like the servants of our Creator we must practise Salah, Zakah, Savm and Hajj faithfully and we must shape our life around Shahadah. If we perform them regularly and correctly we come closer to Allah our Creator and Sustainer.
What are the basic beliefs of Iman (Faith)?
The Basic Beliefs of Iman are to believe in:
1) Allah
2) Angles of Allah
3) Books of Allah
4) Messengers of Allah
5) The day of Judgement
6) Life after death and supremacy of Divine Will (Al-Qadar).
These beliefs have been declared precisely in the faith in detail:
“I believe in Allah, in His Angels, in His Books, in His Messengers, in the Last Day (the Day of Judgement) in the life after death and in the fact that everything good or bad operates under a law laid down by Allah the Almighty.”
The person who confirms these principles by word of mouth and certifies them with his heart is considered as having entered the religion of Islam.
Angels
How do Muslims view Angels?
Angels are believed to be among God’s many creations, and belief in angels is symbolic of a Muslim’s belief in al-Ghayb, the world of the unseen (a world of which only God has knowledge). Angels are considered heavenly beings created by God to perform various duties. Angels by nature do not deviate from righteousness, as they do not possess an inherent free will as do human beings. They are special creatures of Allah, and they have been created from divine-light (Nûr) to perform specific functions.
Some angels are considered more prominent than others. Jibreel (Gabriel), for example, is known as the “Angel of Revelation,” since he communicated God’s revelations and scriptures to various human prophets, and also announced (much to her surprise and incredulity) to Mary, mother of Jesus, that she would bear the messiah awaited by the Children of Israel. Indeed, Jibreel is uniquely described in the Qur’an as a Spirit (Ruh) from God due to his role in bridging the divine and human spheres.
Muslims also believe that each human being is assigned two angels by God: one to keep track of good deeds, and the other to record bad deeds or sins. Tradition holds that these “personal” angels will present the records of one’s deeds to each individual as he or she stands before God on the Day of Judgement.
Can we see Angels?
We can not see them, unless they appear in human form. Angel Jibrail once appeared before a gathering of the companions of the prophet in order to teach them about Islam.
How do Angels differ from men?
They always obey Allah and can never disobey Him. They do not have free will but men, on the other hand, have been given free will and can choose either right or wrong. This is why men will have to face the test on the Day of Judgement. The angels never get tired, they do not need sleep and they are always ready to obey Allah.
What are the duties of the Angels?
We are informed by the Qur’an that angels do what Allah commands them. They are the innocent servants of Allah’s will. They can not act against the will of God. The angels provide strength to the worshippers, intercede and invoke to God on behalf of human beings. The specific duties of angels are as follow:
Jibreel: Brought the revelation from Allah to the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and to all other prophets.
Izrail: Also called “the Angel of Death” (Malak al-Mawt) is responsible for ending our life.
Israfil: Will blow the trumpet at the time of the End of the world and on the Day of Judgement.
Mikail (Michael): Puts the events of nature in order and maintains them.
Some angels are busy recording all that we do. They are called the Respected Recorders / Kiraman Katibin.
Angels are believed to be among God’s many creations, and belief in angels is symbolic of a Muslim’s belief in al-Ghayb, the world of the unseen (a world of which only God has knowledge). Angels are considered heavenly beings created by God to perform various duties. Angels by nature do not deviate from righteousness, as they do not possess an inherent free will as do human beings. They are special creatures of Allah, and they have been created from divine-light (Nûr) to perform specific functions.
Some angels are considered more prominent than others. Jibreel (Gabriel), for example, is known as the “Angel of Revelation,” since he communicated God’s revelations and scriptures to various human prophets, and also announced (much to her surprise and incredulity) to Mary, mother of Jesus, that she would bear the messiah awaited by the Children of Israel. Indeed, Jibreel is uniquely described in the Qur’an as a Spirit (Ruh) from God due to his role in bridging the divine and human spheres.
Muslims also believe that each human being is assigned two angels by God: one to keep track of good deeds, and the other to record bad deeds or sins. Tradition holds that these “personal” angels will present the records of one’s deeds to each individual as he or she stands before God on the Day of Judgement.
Can we see Angels?
We can not see them, unless they appear in human form. Angel Jibrail once appeared before a gathering of the companions of the prophet in order to teach them about Islam.
How do Angels differ from men?
They always obey Allah and can never disobey Him. They do not have free will but men, on the other hand, have been given free will and can choose either right or wrong. This is why men will have to face the test on the Day of Judgement. The angels never get tired, they do not need sleep and they are always ready to obey Allah.
What are the duties of the Angels?
We are informed by the Qur’an that angels do what Allah commands them. They are the innocent servants of Allah’s will. They can not act against the will of God. The angels provide strength to the worshippers, intercede and invoke to God on behalf of human beings. The specific duties of angels are as follow:
Jibreel: Brought the revelation from Allah to the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and to all other prophets.
Izrail: Also called “the Angel of Death” (Malak al-Mawt) is responsible for ending our life.
Israfil: Will blow the trumpet at the time of the End of the world and on the Day of Judgement.
Mikail (Michael): Puts the events of nature in order and maintains them.
Some angels are busy recording all that we do. They are called the Respected Recorders / Kiraman Katibin.
The Holy Books or Divine Scriptures
What is a “divinely revealed” scripture?
A divinely revealed scripture is a holy book or collection of writings believed to have divine, rather than human, origins. Muslims believe God revealed scriptures to certain prophets to communicate His commandments and guidance to humanity. For Muslims, belief in the original scriptures revealed to Abraham (Scrolls), Moses (Torah, including the Ten Commandments), David (Psalms) and Jesus (Evangelium or original Gospel) is an essential component of faith. Indeed, one can not be considered a Muslim unless he believes in these previous scriptures in their original forms and their historical role in the spiritual development of humankind.
How were divine scriptures revealed?
The angel or heavenly Spirit Jibreel (Gabriel) is believed to have transmitted divine communication from God to human. As such, Jibreel figures prominently in the history of scriptural revelation, culminating with the holy book revealed to Muhammad. In 610 C.E., at the age of 40, while in spiritual retreat in the cave of Hira above Mecca, Muhammad was visited by Jibreel for the first time. During this encounter, Jibreel revealed the first of many divine verses that would eventually comprise the Qur’an. Muslims believe God revealed His holy scriptures to the prophets in their native language. For this reason, the Torah was revealed to Moses in Hebrew, while the Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad in Arabic.
“We have, without doubt, sent down the Message and we will assuredly guard it (from corruption).”(Hijr 15: 9)
“Verily this Qur’an guides to that which is most right (or stable) and give the glad tidings to the Believers who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a magnificient reward....” (Isra 17: 9)
What are the names of the four great-books?
The revealed books which are mentioned in the Qur’an are;
a) Torah (Tawrah) of Moses (Musa)
b) Psalms (Zabur) of David (Dawud)
c) Gospel (Injil) of Jesus (Isa)
d) The Holy Qur’an revealed to Muhammad
What is the QUR’AN?
The word Qur’an literally means “the reading” or “the recitation,” and refers to the divinely revealed scripture given to Muhammad. Since Muhammad is considered the last prophet of God, the Qur’an is believed to be the final revelation from God to humanity. The Qur’an is not only a holy scripture for Muslims throughout the world, but also the supreme classic of Arabic literature. In its 114 surahs or chapters, it comprises the whole revelation believed to have been revealed to the prophet Muhammad as a final expression of Allah to human beings.
The Qur’an is considered by Muslims to be the literal Speech of God given to Muhammad in the Arabic language. The chapters and verses of the Qur’an were revealed throughout Prophet Muhammad’s mission, over a span of close to twenty-three years, from 610-632 C.E. Contrary to common misconception, Muhammad is not the author of the Qur’an. Rather, he is viewed as the chosen transmitter of the revelation and the ideal implementor of principles and commandments contained therein. The personal sayings or words of Muhammad are known as hadith, which are distinct from the divine origin of the content of the Qur’an.
As verses of the Qur’an were revealed to Muhammad and subsequently repeated by him to companions and other fellow Muslims, they were written down, recited and memorized. The Prophet also typically led the formal worship five times daily, during which he recited the revealed verses according to the procedure that he established. The verses were also recited out loud by designated Muslims in the early dawn hours and prior to the worship times and other important occasions. In short, the Qur’anic verses played an immediate and practical role in the spiritual lives of Muslims from the outset. Before he passed away, the Prophet arranged the 114 chapters into the sequence we find in the Qur’an. Scholars, both Muslim and non-Muslim, agree that the Qur’an has remained intact and unchanged to the present. The Qur’an as a scripture stands unique in this regard.
Each word of the Qur’an is a revealed word. It was sent down to Muhammad (pbuh) through the Angel Jibrail. In reciting the Holy Qur’an; piecemeal and completed over a period of twenty three years.
• When you hear God’s name and His attributes, your heart should be filled with awe, gratitude, love and other appropriate feelings.
• When you read of the Day of Judgement, your heart should long for Paradise, and tremble at the very thought of Hell-fire.
• When you read of disobedient persons and nations who went astray and earned God’s punishment, you should intensely dislike being as they were.
• When you read of the righteous whom God loves and rewards, you should be eager to be like them.
• When you read of the promises of good and honour in this world, of forgiveness and mercy, of His pleasure in the Hereafter, let your heart be filled with a desire to work for them and deserve them.
• When you read of those who are indifferent to the Qur’an, who turn away from it, who do not accept it, who do not live by it, you must fear lest you be one of them,
• And when you hear the summons to obey God and strive in His Way, you should be determined to respond and achieve the peace and happiness that come from responding.
How many chapters (surahs) are there in the Qur’an?
The Qur’an has 114 chapters / surahs. Chapters revealed when the prophet was living in Mecca are known Mekki and those revealed in Madinah are called Madani.
When were the first Verses of the Qur’an revealed?
The revelation of the Qur’an began in 610 (CE) at Hira. The first verses are;
1) Read and call in the name of your Lord who created.
2) Created man from a clot blood.
3) Read your Lord is the most Generous
4) Who taught by the pen
5) Taught man what he did not know. (Alaq 96: 1-5)
Which chapters of the Qur’an are the longest and shortest ones?
The longest chapter (surah) of the Qur’an is the Cow (Surah Al-Baqara) with 286 Verses.
The shortest chapter (surah) is the Abundance (Surah Al-Kawthar), which has three Verses.
What is the last verse of the Qur’an?
The last verse of the Qur’an which was revealed shortly before Prophet’s (pbuh) death is:
“This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed my favour upon you and have chosen for you Islam as your way of life. (Maida 5: 3)
Who suggested the compilation of the Qur’an?
Each and every word of the Qur’an was recorded as soon as it was revealed by Allah to the Prophet through Angel Jibrail. The Prophet’s secretary Zaid bin Thabit and others used to record them exactly as the Prophet told them.
He continued reading it back to the Prophet until 632 (CE). Shortly after the death of the Prophet in 632 (CE) Omar (May Allah be pleased with him ) suggested to caliph Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Qur’an should be compiled in one volume. Up to then, the Qur’an was written down in pieces in order as they were revealed. A Committee was formed under Zaid bin Thabit to gather the scattered material of the Qur’an into one volume. And Abu Bakr ordered the compilation of the Qur’an.
Who were the most famous Huffaz?
Huffaz (plural form of hafiz) are those people who memorised the Qur’an and who can read it by their hearts. Some of the most famous Huffaz are;
1) Mu’az Ibn Jabal
2) Ubadah Ibn Samit
3) Abu Darda
4) Abu Eyyub
5) Ubayy Ibn Ka’b (may Allah be pleased with them).
What is the subject-matter of the Qur’an?
The Quran, the last revealed word of God, is the primary source of every Muslim’s faith and practice. It deals with all the subjects which concern human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship, transactions, law, etc., but its basic theme is the relationship between God and His creatures. Its teachings cover all areas of this life and the life after death. It contains principles, doctrines and directions for every sphere of human activity. It is a guide for all human beings, whether they are muslims or non-muslims. At the same time, it provides guidelines and detailed teachings for a just society and proper human conduct.
A divinely revealed scripture is a holy book or collection of writings believed to have divine, rather than human, origins. Muslims believe God revealed scriptures to certain prophets to communicate His commandments and guidance to humanity. For Muslims, belief in the original scriptures revealed to Abraham (Scrolls), Moses (Torah, including the Ten Commandments), David (Psalms) and Jesus (Evangelium or original Gospel) is an essential component of faith. Indeed, one can not be considered a Muslim unless he believes in these previous scriptures in their original forms and their historical role in the spiritual development of humankind.
How were divine scriptures revealed?
The angel or heavenly Spirit Jibreel (Gabriel) is believed to have transmitted divine communication from God to human. As such, Jibreel figures prominently in the history of scriptural revelation, culminating with the holy book revealed to Muhammad. In 610 C.E., at the age of 40, while in spiritual retreat in the cave of Hira above Mecca, Muhammad was visited by Jibreel for the first time. During this encounter, Jibreel revealed the first of many divine verses that would eventually comprise the Qur’an. Muslims believe God revealed His holy scriptures to the prophets in their native language. For this reason, the Torah was revealed to Moses in Hebrew, while the Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad in Arabic.
“We have, without doubt, sent down the Message and we will assuredly guard it (from corruption).”(Hijr 15: 9)
“Verily this Qur’an guides to that which is most right (or stable) and give the glad tidings to the Believers who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a magnificient reward....” (Isra 17: 9)
What are the names of the four great-books?
The revealed books which are mentioned in the Qur’an are;
a) Torah (Tawrah) of Moses (Musa)
b) Psalms (Zabur) of David (Dawud)
c) Gospel (Injil) of Jesus (Isa)
d) The Holy Qur’an revealed to Muhammad
What is the QUR’AN?
The word Qur’an literally means “the reading” or “the recitation,” and refers to the divinely revealed scripture given to Muhammad. Since Muhammad is considered the last prophet of God, the Qur’an is believed to be the final revelation from God to humanity. The Qur’an is not only a holy scripture for Muslims throughout the world, but also the supreme classic of Arabic literature. In its 114 surahs or chapters, it comprises the whole revelation believed to have been revealed to the prophet Muhammad as a final expression of Allah to human beings.
The Qur’an is considered by Muslims to be the literal Speech of God given to Muhammad in the Arabic language. The chapters and verses of the Qur’an were revealed throughout Prophet Muhammad’s mission, over a span of close to twenty-three years, from 610-632 C.E. Contrary to common misconception, Muhammad is not the author of the Qur’an. Rather, he is viewed as the chosen transmitter of the revelation and the ideal implementor of principles and commandments contained therein. The personal sayings or words of Muhammad are known as hadith, which are distinct from the divine origin of the content of the Qur’an.
As verses of the Qur’an were revealed to Muhammad and subsequently repeated by him to companions and other fellow Muslims, they were written down, recited and memorized. The Prophet also typically led the formal worship five times daily, during which he recited the revealed verses according to the procedure that he established. The verses were also recited out loud by designated Muslims in the early dawn hours and prior to the worship times and other important occasions. In short, the Qur’anic verses played an immediate and practical role in the spiritual lives of Muslims from the outset. Before he passed away, the Prophet arranged the 114 chapters into the sequence we find in the Qur’an. Scholars, both Muslim and non-Muslim, agree that the Qur’an has remained intact and unchanged to the present. The Qur’an as a scripture stands unique in this regard.
Each word of the Qur’an is a revealed word. It was sent down to Muhammad (pbuh) through the Angel Jibrail. In reciting the Holy Qur’an; piecemeal and completed over a period of twenty three years.
• When you hear God’s name and His attributes, your heart should be filled with awe, gratitude, love and other appropriate feelings.
• When you read of the Day of Judgement, your heart should long for Paradise, and tremble at the very thought of Hell-fire.
• When you read of disobedient persons and nations who went astray and earned God’s punishment, you should intensely dislike being as they were.
• When you read of the righteous whom God loves and rewards, you should be eager to be like them.
• When you read of the promises of good and honour in this world, of forgiveness and mercy, of His pleasure in the Hereafter, let your heart be filled with a desire to work for them and deserve them.
• When you read of those who are indifferent to the Qur’an, who turn away from it, who do not accept it, who do not live by it, you must fear lest you be one of them,
• And when you hear the summons to obey God and strive in His Way, you should be determined to respond and achieve the peace and happiness that come from responding.
How many chapters (surahs) are there in the Qur’an?
The Qur’an has 114 chapters / surahs. Chapters revealed when the prophet was living in Mecca are known Mekki and those revealed in Madinah are called Madani.
When were the first Verses of the Qur’an revealed?
The revelation of the Qur’an began in 610 (CE) at Hira. The first verses are;
1) Read and call in the name of your Lord who created.
2) Created man from a clot blood.
3) Read your Lord is the most Generous
4) Who taught by the pen
5) Taught man what he did not know. (Alaq 96: 1-5)
Which chapters of the Qur’an are the longest and shortest ones?
The longest chapter (surah) of the Qur’an is the Cow (Surah Al-Baqara) with 286 Verses.
The shortest chapter (surah) is the Abundance (Surah Al-Kawthar), which has three Verses.
What is the last verse of the Qur’an?
The last verse of the Qur’an which was revealed shortly before Prophet’s (pbuh) death is:
“This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed my favour upon you and have chosen for you Islam as your way of life. (Maida 5: 3)
Who suggested the compilation of the Qur’an?
Each and every word of the Qur’an was recorded as soon as it was revealed by Allah to the Prophet through Angel Jibrail. The Prophet’s secretary Zaid bin Thabit and others used to record them exactly as the Prophet told them.
He continued reading it back to the Prophet until 632 (CE). Shortly after the death of the Prophet in 632 (CE) Omar (May Allah be pleased with him ) suggested to caliph Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Qur’an should be compiled in one volume. Up to then, the Qur’an was written down in pieces in order as they were revealed. A Committee was formed under Zaid bin Thabit to gather the scattered material of the Qur’an into one volume. And Abu Bakr ordered the compilation of the Qur’an.
Who were the most famous Huffaz?
Huffaz (plural form of hafiz) are those people who memorised the Qur’an and who can read it by their hearts. Some of the most famous Huffaz are;
1) Mu’az Ibn Jabal
2) Ubadah Ibn Samit
3) Abu Darda
4) Abu Eyyub
5) Ubayy Ibn Ka’b (may Allah be pleased with them).
What is the subject-matter of the Qur’an?
The Quran, the last revealed word of God, is the primary source of every Muslim’s faith and practice. It deals with all the subjects which concern human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship, transactions, law, etc., but its basic theme is the relationship between God and His creatures. Its teachings cover all areas of this life and the life after death. It contains principles, doctrines and directions for every sphere of human activity. It is a guide for all human beings, whether they are muslims or non-muslims. At the same time, it provides guidelines and detailed teachings for a just society and proper human conduct.
Prophets
What is the role of prophets in Islam?
Muslims believe that God has provided guidance to humanity over the ages through the institution of prophethood. In the Islamic context, prophets are not persons who prophesy (foretell the future); rather they are seen as righteous and truthful messengers selected by God to fulfill the most important mission-calling on people to worship God alone, and teaching them to live righteously, in accordance with God’s commandments. Muslims believe prophets, and the scriptures given to some of them, are the only sure sources of God’s guidance, and that God has chosen, throughout history, thousands of prophets from among all peoples of the earth, culminating with the last prophet, Muhammad.
“Say: We believe in Allah and that which is revealed to us, and in what was revealed to Abraham, Ishmail, Isaac, Jacob, and the tribes, to Moses and Jesus and the other prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Allah we have surrendered ourselves.” (Baqara 2: 136)
Thus, in Islam, the prophets are seen as spiritual brothers one to another. Some commonly known figures who are considered prophets in Islam include Noah, Jonah, Abraham, Ishmail, Isaac, Joseph, Moses, David, Solomon, and Jesus. The chain of prophethood ended with Muhammad (570-632 C.E.), who lived 600 years after his predecessor Jesus.
Essentially, prophets give warnings as well as glad tidings to fellow human beings: warnings of punishment in this world and the next for unjust, immoral people who have turned away from God and His natural order, and glad tidings of reward in this world and the next for those who are conscious of God and follow His guidance as revealed to the prophets.
The Qur’an mentions twenty-five prophets by name, and tradition indicates that many thousands of prophets were chosen by God throughout human history between the time of Adam and that of Muhammad.
Why did Allah send prophets and messengers to every nation at different times?
Throughout the history, human have gone astray and begun torturing one another. They distorted the truth that would guide them. Eventually, both themselves and others have suffered much from this distortion. So, it was necessary to send prophets at different times to bring forgetful human beings back to the Right-Path (Sirât al-Mustakîm).
Why do we need guidance (Prophethood) from Allah?
Since the beginning of the Creation, Allah has sent His guidance for mankind through His selected people. These chosen people are called prophets or messengers. We human beings are weak and frail. We have no knowledge of the future and the knowledge we have is limited. Also we are not perfect. This is the reason why Allah has blessed us with guidance through prophets and messengers.
Muslims believe that God has provided guidance to humanity over the ages through the institution of prophethood. In the Islamic context, prophets are not persons who prophesy (foretell the future); rather they are seen as righteous and truthful messengers selected by God to fulfill the most important mission-calling on people to worship God alone, and teaching them to live righteously, in accordance with God’s commandments. Muslims believe prophets, and the scriptures given to some of them, are the only sure sources of God’s guidance, and that God has chosen, throughout history, thousands of prophets from among all peoples of the earth, culminating with the last prophet, Muhammad.
“Say: We believe in Allah and that which is revealed to us, and in what was revealed to Abraham, Ishmail, Isaac, Jacob, and the tribes, to Moses and Jesus and the other prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Allah we have surrendered ourselves.” (Baqara 2: 136)
Thus, in Islam, the prophets are seen as spiritual brothers one to another. Some commonly known figures who are considered prophets in Islam include Noah, Jonah, Abraham, Ishmail, Isaac, Joseph, Moses, David, Solomon, and Jesus. The chain of prophethood ended with Muhammad (570-632 C.E.), who lived 600 years after his predecessor Jesus.
Essentially, prophets give warnings as well as glad tidings to fellow human beings: warnings of punishment in this world and the next for unjust, immoral people who have turned away from God and His natural order, and glad tidings of reward in this world and the next for those who are conscious of God and follow His guidance as revealed to the prophets.
The Qur’an mentions twenty-five prophets by name, and tradition indicates that many thousands of prophets were chosen by God throughout human history between the time of Adam and that of Muhammad.
Why did Allah send prophets and messengers to every nation at different times?
Throughout the history, human have gone astray and begun torturing one another. They distorted the truth that would guide them. Eventually, both themselves and others have suffered much from this distortion. So, it was necessary to send prophets at different times to bring forgetful human beings back to the Right-Path (Sirât al-Mustakîm).
Why do we need guidance (Prophethood) from Allah?
Since the beginning of the Creation, Allah has sent His guidance for mankind through His selected people. These chosen people are called prophets or messengers. We human beings are weak and frail. We have no knowledge of the future and the knowledge we have is limited. Also we are not perfect. This is the reason why Allah has blessed us with guidance through prophets and messengers.
Day Of Judgement / Akhirah
A day will come when the whole universe will be destroyed and then again the dead will be resurrected to stand before God. That day will be the beginning of the life that will never end, and that day every person will be rewarded by God according to his or her good or evil deed. The explanation that the Quran gives about the necessity of life after death is what moral consciousness of man demands. Actually, if there is no life after death, the very belief in God becomes irrelevant or even if one believes in God, that would be an unjust and indifferent God: having once created man not concerned with his fate. Surely, God is just; He will punish the tyrants whose crimes are beyond count: having killed hundreds of innocent persons, created great corruptions in the society, enslaved numerous persons to serve their whims etc... Man having a very short span of life in this world, and this physical world too being not eternal, punishments or rewards equal to the evil or noble deeds of persons are not possible here. The Quran very emphatically states that the Day of Judgement will come and God will decide about the fate of each soul according to his or her record of deeds:
“The Unbelievers say, ‘Never to us will come the Hour’: Say, ‘Nay! but most surely, by my Lord, it will come upon you;—by Him Who knows the unseen,—from Whom is not hidden the least little atom in the heavens or on earth: nor is there anything less than that, or greater, but is in the Record Perspicuous: That He may reward those who believe and work deeds of righteousness: for such is Forgiveness and a Sustenance Most Generous.’ But those who strive against Our Signs, to frustrate them,—for such will be a Chastisement,- of painful wrath.” (Saba’ 34: 3-5)
Why is belief in Akhirah (The Judgement Day) very important?
In the interest of justice and to fulfill God’s divine plan, a day will come when the present world will be destroyed and the entire human race will be resurrected and assembled before God for individual judgement. One will either be rewarded with permanent bliss in Jannah (Paradise) or be punished with suffering in Jahannam (Hell). However, the infinite mercy of God is demonstrated in the Qur’anic statement that those who have even a mustard seed’s weight of belief in God will eventually be admitted into Heaven.
It is unreasonable to expect that the virtuous and the vicious in this world should be treated in the same manner by the Wise, Just and Merciful Creator. Therefore, it is reasonable and natural to believe in a life after death and a judgement where all will be called to account for their deeds. Man’s responsibility and accountability is thus a major theme of the Qur’an.
The Qur’an asserts that a future life is both desirable and possible. If there is no future life in which the virtuous are rewarded and the vicious punished, there would be no justice and there would be no purpose in creating men with a sense of responsibility and in sending prophets to remind them of their responsilities.
Belief in Akhirah has a tremendous influence on the life of a Muslim. He knows that Allah is watching all his actions and he will have to account for them on the Day of Judgement.
The belief in life after death not only guarantees success in the Hereafter but also makes this world full of peace and happiness by making individuals most responsible and dutiful in their activities. Think of the people of Arabia; gambling, wine, tribal feuds, plundering and murdering were their main traits when they had no belief in life after death. But as soon as they accepted the belief in the One God and life after death they became the most disciplined nation of the world. They gave up their vices, helped each other in hours of need, and settled all their disputes on the basis of justice and equality. Similarly the denial of life after death has its consequences not only in the Hereafter but also in this world. When a nation as a whole denies it, all kinds of evils and corruptions become rampant in that society and ultimately it is destroyed.
A Muslim believes that our life on this Earth is temporary and is meant to be a preparation for Akhirah which is never ending.
A Muslim knows that he will be rewarded in the life after death for all his good actions. He will live in Heaven, a place of eternal happiness and peace. Wrong-doers will be punished on the Day of Judgement and will be sent to Hell.
The Qur’an says:
“Does man think that we shall not assemble his bones? Yes, surely, yes, we are able to restore the very shape of his fingers. (Qiyamah 75: 34)
What is the Muslim view of the Afterlife?
Muslims believe that death is not the end of life, but rather a transitory state. After death, life continues in a different form. Various verses in the Qur’an describe Heaven as a place of blissful gardens and rivers, where all of one’s desires may be fulfilled, while Hell is described as a place of fire and torment. Some scholars believe that such descriptions are in part allegorical, and serve to provide in human terms a symbol for the experience of the afterlife. Even so, no matter what form they take, physical or ethereal, reward and punishment are considered patently real by Muslims.
“O my devotees! No fear shall be on you that Day, nor shall you grieve. Tell those who believe in Our signs and surrender themselves: ‘Enter the Garden rejoicing, both you and your spouses!’ To them will be passed round dishes and goblets of gold; there they will have all that the souls could desire; all that the eyes could delight in; and you shall abide therein forever. Such will be the Garden of which you are made heirs for your good deeds in life.” (Zuhruf 43: 68-72)
“Those who reject Allah, for them will be the Fire of Hell; no term shall be determined for them, that they may die, nor shall its penalty be lightened for them; thus do We reward every ungrateful one.” (Fâtır 35: 36)
When the death comes, human spirit only tastes it as it leaves the body it has enlived till that time. So, material side of human that is his body dies but the essential part, that is his spirit, only tastes the death, it never dies. The Holy Qur’an says:
“Every soul will taste the death.” (Ankabut 29: 57)
How is the Hereafter possible?
While some people may believe in a Supreme God, they can not conceive that their dead and decayed bodies will be resurrected and that they will be called to account for their actions on earth. Their typical questions is this:
“Who shall bring back the bones to life after they have decomposed and become dust?” (Ya-Sin 36: 78)
To this question which comes from a dubious mind the Holy Qur’an replies:
“O mankind! If you are in doubt concerning the Resurrection, (remember that) verily, We have created (every one of) you out of dust, then out of a drop of sperm, then out of a germ-cell, then out of an embryonic lump complete (in itself) and yet incomplete, so that We might make (your origin) clear unto you. And whatever We will (to be born) We cause to rest in the (mother’s) wombs for a term set (by Us), and then We bring you forth as infants and (allow you to live) so that (some of) you might attain to maturity; for among you are such as are caused to die earlier, just as most of you are reduced in old age to a most abject state, ceasing to know anything of what he once knew so well. And (if, o mankind, you are still in doubt as to Resurrection, consider this:) you can see the earth dry and lifeless-and (suddenly) when We send down waters on it, it stirs and swells and puts forth every kind of lovely plant! All this happens because God alone is the Ultimate Truth, and because He alone brings the dead to life, and because He has the power to will anything and because the Hour of Judgement is bound to come, beyond any doubt, and because God will indeed resurrect all who are in the graves.” (Hajj 22: 5-7. Also see: Ya-Sin 36: 77-83)
How is “salvation” viewed by Muslims?
For Muslims, following the straight path laid down by the prophets and exemplified by the last Prophet, Muhammad, whose message has been preserved since its revelation, is the means of safety and salvation. According to Muslim belief, a person who consciously rejects the prophets and their message is rejecting God, and thereby earns His wrath. Those who have not consciously rejected any prophet will be judged according to their belief in God and their good deeds. Ultimately, the Creator is the sole judge, and Muslims believe that no human being can judge another in spiritual terms. A hadith states “A person may appear to be working the deeds of the people of Paradise, while he is among the people of the Fire. And a person may appear to be working the deeds of the people of the Fire, while he is among the people of Paradise.”
For Muslims, belief in accountability to God and responsibility for one’s own deeds gives one a sense of purpose, and every moment and event in life has religious purport. Thus, awareness of God’s presence serves as a deterrent against crime, corruption, immorality and injustice as well as a means of acknowledging the role of God in one’s life.
“The Unbelievers say, ‘Never to us will come the Hour’: Say, ‘Nay! but most surely, by my Lord, it will come upon you;—by Him Who knows the unseen,—from Whom is not hidden the least little atom in the heavens or on earth: nor is there anything less than that, or greater, but is in the Record Perspicuous: That He may reward those who believe and work deeds of righteousness: for such is Forgiveness and a Sustenance Most Generous.’ But those who strive against Our Signs, to frustrate them,—for such will be a Chastisement,- of painful wrath.” (Saba’ 34: 3-5)
Why is belief in Akhirah (The Judgement Day) very important?
In the interest of justice and to fulfill God’s divine plan, a day will come when the present world will be destroyed and the entire human race will be resurrected and assembled before God for individual judgement. One will either be rewarded with permanent bliss in Jannah (Paradise) or be punished with suffering in Jahannam (Hell). However, the infinite mercy of God is demonstrated in the Qur’anic statement that those who have even a mustard seed’s weight of belief in God will eventually be admitted into Heaven.
It is unreasonable to expect that the virtuous and the vicious in this world should be treated in the same manner by the Wise, Just and Merciful Creator. Therefore, it is reasonable and natural to believe in a life after death and a judgement where all will be called to account for their deeds. Man’s responsibility and accountability is thus a major theme of the Qur’an.
The Qur’an asserts that a future life is both desirable and possible. If there is no future life in which the virtuous are rewarded and the vicious punished, there would be no justice and there would be no purpose in creating men with a sense of responsibility and in sending prophets to remind them of their responsilities.
Belief in Akhirah has a tremendous influence on the life of a Muslim. He knows that Allah is watching all his actions and he will have to account for them on the Day of Judgement.
The belief in life after death not only guarantees success in the Hereafter but also makes this world full of peace and happiness by making individuals most responsible and dutiful in their activities. Think of the people of Arabia; gambling, wine, tribal feuds, plundering and murdering were their main traits when they had no belief in life after death. But as soon as they accepted the belief in the One God and life after death they became the most disciplined nation of the world. They gave up their vices, helped each other in hours of need, and settled all their disputes on the basis of justice and equality. Similarly the denial of life after death has its consequences not only in the Hereafter but also in this world. When a nation as a whole denies it, all kinds of evils and corruptions become rampant in that society and ultimately it is destroyed.
A Muslim believes that our life on this Earth is temporary and is meant to be a preparation for Akhirah which is never ending.
A Muslim knows that he will be rewarded in the life after death for all his good actions. He will live in Heaven, a place of eternal happiness and peace. Wrong-doers will be punished on the Day of Judgement and will be sent to Hell.
The Qur’an says:
“Does man think that we shall not assemble his bones? Yes, surely, yes, we are able to restore the very shape of his fingers. (Qiyamah 75: 34)
What is the Muslim view of the Afterlife?
Muslims believe that death is not the end of life, but rather a transitory state. After death, life continues in a different form. Various verses in the Qur’an describe Heaven as a place of blissful gardens and rivers, where all of one’s desires may be fulfilled, while Hell is described as a place of fire and torment. Some scholars believe that such descriptions are in part allegorical, and serve to provide in human terms a symbol for the experience of the afterlife. Even so, no matter what form they take, physical or ethereal, reward and punishment are considered patently real by Muslims.
“O my devotees! No fear shall be on you that Day, nor shall you grieve. Tell those who believe in Our signs and surrender themselves: ‘Enter the Garden rejoicing, both you and your spouses!’ To them will be passed round dishes and goblets of gold; there they will have all that the souls could desire; all that the eyes could delight in; and you shall abide therein forever. Such will be the Garden of which you are made heirs for your good deeds in life.” (Zuhruf 43: 68-72)
“Those who reject Allah, for them will be the Fire of Hell; no term shall be determined for them, that they may die, nor shall its penalty be lightened for them; thus do We reward every ungrateful one.” (Fâtır 35: 36)
When the death comes, human spirit only tastes it as it leaves the body it has enlived till that time. So, material side of human that is his body dies but the essential part, that is his spirit, only tastes the death, it never dies. The Holy Qur’an says:
“Every soul will taste the death.” (Ankabut 29: 57)
How is the Hereafter possible?
While some people may believe in a Supreme God, they can not conceive that their dead and decayed bodies will be resurrected and that they will be called to account for their actions on earth. Their typical questions is this:
“Who shall bring back the bones to life after they have decomposed and become dust?” (Ya-Sin 36: 78)
To this question which comes from a dubious mind the Holy Qur’an replies:
“O mankind! If you are in doubt concerning the Resurrection, (remember that) verily, We have created (every one of) you out of dust, then out of a drop of sperm, then out of a germ-cell, then out of an embryonic lump complete (in itself) and yet incomplete, so that We might make (your origin) clear unto you. And whatever We will (to be born) We cause to rest in the (mother’s) wombs for a term set (by Us), and then We bring you forth as infants and (allow you to live) so that (some of) you might attain to maturity; for among you are such as are caused to die earlier, just as most of you are reduced in old age to a most abject state, ceasing to know anything of what he once knew so well. And (if, o mankind, you are still in doubt as to Resurrection, consider this:) you can see the earth dry and lifeless-and (suddenly) when We send down waters on it, it stirs and swells and puts forth every kind of lovely plant! All this happens because God alone is the Ultimate Truth, and because He alone brings the dead to life, and because He has the power to will anything and because the Hour of Judgement is bound to come, beyond any doubt, and because God will indeed resurrect all who are in the graves.” (Hajj 22: 5-7. Also see: Ya-Sin 36: 77-83)
How is “salvation” viewed by Muslims?
For Muslims, following the straight path laid down by the prophets and exemplified by the last Prophet, Muhammad, whose message has been preserved since its revelation, is the means of safety and salvation. According to Muslim belief, a person who consciously rejects the prophets and their message is rejecting God, and thereby earns His wrath. Those who have not consciously rejected any prophet will be judged according to their belief in God and their good deeds. Ultimately, the Creator is the sole judge, and Muslims believe that no human being can judge another in spiritual terms. A hadith states “A person may appear to be working the deeds of the people of Paradise, while he is among the people of the Fire. And a person may appear to be working the deeds of the people of the Fire, while he is among the people of Paradise.”
For Muslims, belief in accountability to God and responsibility for one’s own deeds gives one a sense of purpose, and every moment and event in life has religious purport. Thus, awareness of God’s presence serves as a deterrent against crime, corruption, immorality and injustice as well as a means of acknowledging the role of God in one’s life.
Basic Pillars of Islam
What is Islam?
The term Islam derives from the three-letter Arabic root s-l-m, which generates words with interrelated meanings, including “surrender”, “submission”, “commitment” and “peace.” Commonly, Islam refers to the monotheistic religion revealed to Muhammad b. (son of) Abdullah in 610 CE. The name Islam was instituted by the Qur’an, the sacred scripture revealed to Muhammad. For believers, Islam is not a new religion. Rather, it represents the last reiteration of the primordial message of God’s Oneness, a theme found in earlier monotheistic religious traditions. And in this meaning Islam is the religion of all the Prophets with which God sent them for the guidance of His servants.
Though Islam can be described as a religion, it is viewed by its adherents in much broader terms. Beyond belief in specific doctrines and performance of important ritual acts, Islam is practiced as a complete and natural way of life, designed to bring God into the center of one’s consciousness, and thus one’s life. Essentially, by definition Islam is a worldview focused on belief in the One God and commitment to His commandments.
Islam is the way of Universal Peace and Harmony. If we look around, we see that everything including the Sun, the Moon and the Stars, the high hills and the mighty oceans are obeying a law (the law of Allah) we find no disorder or chaos in them. Have we ever noticed any violation of the law of Allah by these objects of nature? Of course not. Then, why? Simply, because they are made to obey Allah. They have no choice but to obey. Allah has given us the knowledge and will to choose between right and wrong. He has also sent messengers and books for our guidance.
Therefore we can summarize Islam as;
a) Islam is an Arabic word which means submission and obedience.
b) Islam is a complete way of life. It is the guidance provided by Allah, the Creator of the universe for all mankind.
c) Islam is the way of universal peace and harmony.
d) Islam is the message of all the prophets and messengers from Adam (peace be upon him) to Muhammad (pbuh). They asked people to obey Allah and none other. This message sent through prophets was completed at the time of Muhammad (pbuh) who was the last of the chain of prophethood.
The prophet Muhammad (pbuh) transmitted Islam from Allah to Human-Being by Qur’an.
e) Islam is the Primordial Religion that based on Divine Unity.
f) Islam is the Universal Religion of brotherhood and solidarity and the Religion of an ideal Social Order.
g) Islam is way to perfection for man from past to future. It shows us the best way to conduct our private, social, political, economic, moral and spiritual affairs of life.
Why does Allah not force us to obey Him?
He does not force us to obey Him, because Allah has given us, the knowledge and will to obey or disobey Him.
Why is this so?
It is because He wants to test us. After this test there will be a day of reward and punishment. This is the Day of Judgement. Those of who have passed the test will be rewarded with permanent happiness and peace in Paradise and those who have failed will suffer a terrible punishment in Hell. We can get this reward and escape punishment by obeying and worshipping Allah.
We already know that there is peace and harmony among other objects of nature. Because those things never disobey Allah. So if we follow the guidance given to us through prophets and messengers, we are sure to have peace in the world we live in.
What is the meaning of Ibadah?
The Qur’anic word for worship is Ibadah. Everything we do comes under Ibadah, if we do them for Allah’s sake. Our purpose in life is to please Allah through Ibadah. Ibadah is the way to reach success and happiness in the life after death.
Worship means total obedience to Allah’s commands. However, ibadah is not confined to these known deeds. Every good and useful thing has to be considered ibadah if it has any use for the muslim individuals and muslim community.
Every action performed in obedience to God’s guidance or in order to please Him is considered an act of ibadah (worship) in Islam. Thus, helping someone with their homework, greeting a stranger, or even hugging one’s spouse are at the same time acts of worship which earn spiritual reward.
However, it is the specific acts of worship commonly termed the “Five Pillars of Islam” that provide the framework for the Muslim’s spiritual life. The observance of these duties is regulated by individual conscience, and consequently, in real life, a spectrum of practice exists among Muslims.
The regular performance of acts of worship, such as salah (formal worship) and sawm (fasting), is essential for acknowledging God’s authority in one’s life and for spiritual growth. While these acts involve specific practices and statements, Islam does not teach blind, ritualistic imitation. Muslims believe that God does not want from His servants absent-minded movement of the tongue and body, rather He wants attention of the heart and sincere actions. Consequently, the intention that one has before fulfilling a particular obligation, counts a great deal. Indeed, a hadith states that “Actions are judged according to their intentions.”
Interestingly, the Arabic word ibadah means “worship” as well as “service.” Thus, to worship God means not only to love and exalt Him but also to serve Him by living in accord with His guidance in every aspect of life, to enjoin goodness among people and forbid wrong-doing and oppression, to practice charity and justice, and to serve Him by serving humanity.
“It is not righteousness that you turn your faces toward East or West; but it is righteousness to believe in God and the Last Day and the Angels and the Scripture and the Messengers; to spend of your wealth, out of love for him, for your kin, for orphans, for the needy, for the wayfarer, and for those who ask, and for freeing slaves; to observe prayer and give charity; to fulfill the contracts that you have made, to be firm and patient in pain and in adversity, and time of stress: such are those who are sincere. Such are the God-conscious.” (Baqara 2: 177)
What is the meaning of Ordering Good (Ma’ruf) and Forbidding Evil (Munkar)?
All Human-Beings by their very nature like good things and dislike bad ones. So we can say that human nature likes the right and dislikes the wrong. Right is Ma’ruf and wrong is Munkar in the language of the Qur’an.
The human being was created with an inbuilt moral sense which allows him to recognize what is true and good from what is false and evil. “Good” may be defined as whatever pleases God and therefore beneficial to man. “Evil” may be defined as whatever incurs the anger of God and is therefore harmful to man. Althoug God created mankind in a naturally good state, He also created him with the capacity or power to do both good and evil. He gave him the freedom to choose between doing good and doing evil. Evil comes from the intentions and actions of man. Evil does not come from God and God is not responsible for evil.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And made his progeny from a quintessence of the nature of a fluid despised. But he fashioned him in due proportion and breathed into him something of his spirit. And he gave you (the faculties of) hearing and sight and feeling (and understanding) little thanks do you give.” (Sajdah 32: 8-9)
“Now let man but think from what he is created. He is created from a drop emitted proceeding from between the backbone and the ribs. Surely He is able to bring him back (to life).” (At-Tariq 86: 8)
“Those whom Allah (in His plan) wills to guide, He opens their breast to Islam. Those whom He wills to leave straying He makes their breast close....” (An’am 6: 125)
“Their intention is to extinguish Allah’s light (by blowing) with their mouths but Allah will complete (the revelation of) His Light even though the unbelievers may detest (it).” (Saff 61: 8)
The term Islam derives from the three-letter Arabic root s-l-m, which generates words with interrelated meanings, including “surrender”, “submission”, “commitment” and “peace.” Commonly, Islam refers to the monotheistic religion revealed to Muhammad b. (son of) Abdullah in 610 CE. The name Islam was instituted by the Qur’an, the sacred scripture revealed to Muhammad. For believers, Islam is not a new religion. Rather, it represents the last reiteration of the primordial message of God’s Oneness, a theme found in earlier monotheistic religious traditions. And in this meaning Islam is the religion of all the Prophets with which God sent them for the guidance of His servants.
Though Islam can be described as a religion, it is viewed by its adherents in much broader terms. Beyond belief in specific doctrines and performance of important ritual acts, Islam is practiced as a complete and natural way of life, designed to bring God into the center of one’s consciousness, and thus one’s life. Essentially, by definition Islam is a worldview focused on belief in the One God and commitment to His commandments.
Islam is the way of Universal Peace and Harmony. If we look around, we see that everything including the Sun, the Moon and the Stars, the high hills and the mighty oceans are obeying a law (the law of Allah) we find no disorder or chaos in them. Have we ever noticed any violation of the law of Allah by these objects of nature? Of course not. Then, why? Simply, because they are made to obey Allah. They have no choice but to obey. Allah has given us the knowledge and will to choose between right and wrong. He has also sent messengers and books for our guidance.
Therefore we can summarize Islam as;
a) Islam is an Arabic word which means submission and obedience.
b) Islam is a complete way of life. It is the guidance provided by Allah, the Creator of the universe for all mankind.
c) Islam is the way of universal peace and harmony.
d) Islam is the message of all the prophets and messengers from Adam (peace be upon him) to Muhammad (pbuh). They asked people to obey Allah and none other. This message sent through prophets was completed at the time of Muhammad (pbuh) who was the last of the chain of prophethood.
The prophet Muhammad (pbuh) transmitted Islam from Allah to Human-Being by Qur’an.
e) Islam is the Primordial Religion that based on Divine Unity.
f) Islam is the Universal Religion of brotherhood and solidarity and the Religion of an ideal Social Order.
g) Islam is way to perfection for man from past to future. It shows us the best way to conduct our private, social, political, economic, moral and spiritual affairs of life.
Why does Allah not force us to obey Him?
He does not force us to obey Him, because Allah has given us, the knowledge and will to obey or disobey Him.
Why is this so?
It is because He wants to test us. After this test there will be a day of reward and punishment. This is the Day of Judgement. Those of who have passed the test will be rewarded with permanent happiness and peace in Paradise and those who have failed will suffer a terrible punishment in Hell. We can get this reward and escape punishment by obeying and worshipping Allah.
We already know that there is peace and harmony among other objects of nature. Because those things never disobey Allah. So if we follow the guidance given to us through prophets and messengers, we are sure to have peace in the world we live in.
What is the meaning of Ibadah?
The Qur’anic word for worship is Ibadah. Everything we do comes under Ibadah, if we do them for Allah’s sake. Our purpose in life is to please Allah through Ibadah. Ibadah is the way to reach success and happiness in the life after death.
Worship means total obedience to Allah’s commands. However, ibadah is not confined to these known deeds. Every good and useful thing has to be considered ibadah if it has any use for the muslim individuals and muslim community.
Every action performed in obedience to God’s guidance or in order to please Him is considered an act of ibadah (worship) in Islam. Thus, helping someone with their homework, greeting a stranger, or even hugging one’s spouse are at the same time acts of worship which earn spiritual reward.
However, it is the specific acts of worship commonly termed the “Five Pillars of Islam” that provide the framework for the Muslim’s spiritual life. The observance of these duties is regulated by individual conscience, and consequently, in real life, a spectrum of practice exists among Muslims.
The regular performance of acts of worship, such as salah (formal worship) and sawm (fasting), is essential for acknowledging God’s authority in one’s life and for spiritual growth. While these acts involve specific practices and statements, Islam does not teach blind, ritualistic imitation. Muslims believe that God does not want from His servants absent-minded movement of the tongue and body, rather He wants attention of the heart and sincere actions. Consequently, the intention that one has before fulfilling a particular obligation, counts a great deal. Indeed, a hadith states that “Actions are judged according to their intentions.”
Interestingly, the Arabic word ibadah means “worship” as well as “service.” Thus, to worship God means not only to love and exalt Him but also to serve Him by living in accord with His guidance in every aspect of life, to enjoin goodness among people and forbid wrong-doing and oppression, to practice charity and justice, and to serve Him by serving humanity.
“It is not righteousness that you turn your faces toward East or West; but it is righteousness to believe in God and the Last Day and the Angels and the Scripture and the Messengers; to spend of your wealth, out of love for him, for your kin, for orphans, for the needy, for the wayfarer, and for those who ask, and for freeing slaves; to observe prayer and give charity; to fulfill the contracts that you have made, to be firm and patient in pain and in adversity, and time of stress: such are those who are sincere. Such are the God-conscious.” (Baqara 2: 177)
What is the meaning of Ordering Good (Ma’ruf) and Forbidding Evil (Munkar)?
All Human-Beings by their very nature like good things and dislike bad ones. So we can say that human nature likes the right and dislikes the wrong. Right is Ma’ruf and wrong is Munkar in the language of the Qur’an.
The human being was created with an inbuilt moral sense which allows him to recognize what is true and good from what is false and evil. “Good” may be defined as whatever pleases God and therefore beneficial to man. “Evil” may be defined as whatever incurs the anger of God and is therefore harmful to man. Althoug God created mankind in a naturally good state, He also created him with the capacity or power to do both good and evil. He gave him the freedom to choose between doing good and doing evil. Evil comes from the intentions and actions of man. Evil does not come from God and God is not responsible for evil.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And made his progeny from a quintessence of the nature of a fluid despised. But he fashioned him in due proportion and breathed into him something of his spirit. And he gave you (the faculties of) hearing and sight and feeling (and understanding) little thanks do you give.” (Sajdah 32: 8-9)
“Now let man but think from what he is created. He is created from a drop emitted proceeding from between the backbone and the ribs. Surely He is able to bring him back (to life).” (At-Tariq 86: 8)
“Those whom Allah (in His plan) wills to guide, He opens their breast to Islam. Those whom He wills to leave straying He makes their breast close....” (An’am 6: 125)
“Their intention is to extinguish Allah’s light (by blowing) with their mouths but Allah will complete (the revelation of) His Light even though the unbelievers may detest (it).” (Saff 61: 8)
What Are The Five Basic Articles Of Islam?
Islam has five basic-duties which Muslims must perform. They are known as the five Pillars of Islam (Arkân al-Islam). These pillars are mentioned in the following Hadith (a saying of Prophet Muhammad):
“Islam is based on five things; declaring that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, performance of Salah, payment of Zakah, Hajj (Pilgrimage), Savm in the month of Ramadan.”
The Five Pillars as mentioned in the Hadith are ;
a) Shahadah: (Declaration of faith)
b) Salah : (Five compulsory daily prayers)
c) Zakah : (Welfare-contribution)
d) Hajj : (Pilgrimage to Mecca)
e) Sawm : (Fasting during Ramadan)
What is the meaning of Testimony / Kalimah Shahadah?
The Shahadah represents the first pillar of Islam, upon which everything else is based. The shahadah is a two-fold declaration or statement; it is a denial of any thing’s worthiness for worship save God, and an affirmation of Muhammad’s prophethood (and thereby the prophethood of all previous prophets, since Muhammad is considered the last). The shahadah states “I bear witness that there is no deity except Allah (God), and that Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger.”
Making the declaration in sincerity formally brings a person into the fold of Islam. Other than repeating the shahadah in the presence of at least two Muslim witnesses, no particular ceremony (such as a baptism) is involved.
The shahadah, being the central theme of Islam, is repeated in the adhan (call to worship) and in the salah (formal worship) numerous times throughout each day. This practice serves to remind Muslims of their commitment to God and effort to live righteously.
“Islam is based on five things; declaring that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, performance of Salah, payment of Zakah, Hajj (Pilgrimage), Savm in the month of Ramadan.”
The Five Pillars as mentioned in the Hadith are ;
a) Shahadah: (Declaration of faith)
b) Salah : (Five compulsory daily prayers)
c) Zakah : (Welfare-contribution)
d) Hajj : (Pilgrimage to Mecca)
e) Sawm : (Fasting during Ramadan)
What is the meaning of Testimony / Kalimah Shahadah?
The Shahadah represents the first pillar of Islam, upon which everything else is based. The shahadah is a two-fold declaration or statement; it is a denial of any thing’s worthiness for worship save God, and an affirmation of Muhammad’s prophethood (and thereby the prophethood of all previous prophets, since Muhammad is considered the last). The shahadah states “I bear witness that there is no deity except Allah (God), and that Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger.”
Making the declaration in sincerity formally brings a person into the fold of Islam. Other than repeating the shahadah in the presence of at least two Muslim witnesses, no particular ceremony (such as a baptism) is involved.
The shahadah, being the central theme of Islam, is repeated in the adhan (call to worship) and in the salah (formal worship) numerous times throughout each day. This practice serves to remind Muslims of their commitment to God and effort to live righteously.
The Salah ( Prayer )
Salah (prayer) is the second pillar of Islam. It refers to the five compulsory daily prayers. Salah (prayer) is offered five times a day individually or in congregation. We offer Salah (prayer) to remember Allah. It brings us closer to Him. The Qur’an says:
“Establish Salah to remember Me (Allah).” (Tâ-Hâ 20: 14)
Salah is the practical proof of our faith in Allah and Islam. It has been made compulsory at certain fixed time. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Salah at fixed times has been enjoined on the Believers.” (Nisâ 4: 103)
When we analyze the Islamic prayer and study its unique nature, it will reveal to us that it is not merely a physical motion or a void recital of the Holy Book. It is a matchless formula of intellectual mediation and spiritual devotion, of moral elevation and physical exercise, all combined. It should always be borne in mind that God does not need man’s prayer, because He is free of all needs. He is only interested in our prosperity and well being in every sense. When He emphasizes the necessity of prayer and charges us with any duty, He means to help us; because whatever good we do is for our own benefit, and whatever offence we commit is against our own souls. Here, too, man is the centre of gravity, and his common interest is the main concern. Here is an explaination of the effectiveness of the Islamic prayer:
1) It strengthens the belief in the Existence and Goodness of God ant transmits this belief into the innermost recesses of man’s heart.
2) It enlivens this belief and makes it constructive in the practical course of life.
3) It helps man to realize his natural and instictive aspirations to greatness and high morality, to excellence and virtuous growth.
4) It purifies the heart and developes the mind, cultivates the conscience and comforts the soul.
5) It fosters the good and decent elements in man, and supresses the evil and indecent inclinations.
What are the five daily prayers and their times?
The five daily prayers are;
Fajr : from dawn until just before sunrise
Zuhr : after mid-day until afternoon
Asr : from late afternoon until daylight ends (dusk)
Maghrib : after sunset until daylight ends
Isha’ : night until midnight or dawn
Our Prophet said that: “All the Earth has been given Me as a place for prayers (prostration) and as a purifier.”
And he also said that: “Tell your children to pray when they are seven and warn them for omission (of Prayers) at ten.”
How can we have purity?
We can have a full bath of the whole body with pure water or have partial ablution, cleaning only parts of the body (Fresh-Wudu). The full bath is called Ghusl and the latter is Wudu (Ablution) in Arabic. Cleanliness of the body and clothes is called Taharah / Purification. We may be clean outwardly and still not be pure. It is especially important to remove all trace of urine or excrement from the clothes worn for Salah / Prayer. We must be clean and pure for Prayer. The holy Qur’an says:
“Surely, Allah loves those who turn to Him and those who care for cleanliness.” (Baqara 2: 222)
Muslims are not allowed to have a shower in the nude in the presence of others.
Why do we need to perform prayer (salah)?
We perform salah to remember Allah our Creator and to be close to Him and to gain His favour and benefaction. The Qur’an asks as to establish Salah to remember God and to purify ourselves inwardly so that we can refrain from all evil things.
What is Qiblah?
Stand upright on your prayer mat facing the direction of Al-Ka’bah. The direction we face to is called Qiblah in Arabic. Qiblah is in the south east from Turkey.
How do you make your Niyyah for prayer?
Before we can begin to perform prayer (salah) we must first prepare ourselves. This preparation includes making sure we are clean and this is done by carrying out Wudu. Wudu (Ablution) is essential for performing Salah. So we can not perfom our salah without first taking Wudu.
These are the steps to take :
After performing the ablution, the worshipper stands up facing Qibla. Prayers begin with the Niyyah (intention), the worshipper’s intention, expressing that he is proposing to pray, for example, the two Fard (obligatory) Rikats. Then he utters the words “Allahu Akbar” “God is the Greatest.” With his thumbs he touches the lobes of his ears, his hands are opened on each side of his face. Then his right hand is placed upon the left over his breast while his eyes look at the ground.
What is Ruku?
Bowing down and saying; “Subhana Rabbiyal A’zim (Transliteration) (Glory to my Lord the Great) three times. This position is called Ruku.
What is Qiyam?
Stand up from the bowing position saying “Sami-Allahu-liman-hamidah (Allah hears those who praise Him). This standing is called Qiyam in Arabic.
What is the Takbirat al-Ihram?
Raising your hands up to your ears (women and girls up to their shoulders) and saying Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest) is called (Takbirat al-Ihram).
What is Sajdah/prostration?
Prostrate on the floor on your prayer mat saying “Allahu Akbar” with your forehead, nose, palms of both hands and your knees touching the floor. Recite “Subhane-Rabbiyal-A’la (Glory to my Lord the Highest) three times. This position is called Sajdah.
What is Adhan (Call to Prayer)?
Adhan informs Muslims about the timing of prayer, and is recited at the beginning of the prayer. It is strongly recommended that wherever possible Muslims should offer their compulsory (Fard) prayers in the Mosque. It is a confirmed Sunna ordered by the holy Prophet.
Who is Muazzin (Caller to Prayer)?
The person who gives the Adhan is called the Muazzin (Caller). While calling for prayer he stands in the Minaret or in the courtyard of the Mosque facing the Qiblah and raises his hands to his ears and calls out;
1) Allahu Akbar (4 times) (God is the Greatest)
2) Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah (2) (I testify that there is no deity save God)
3) Ashhadu anna Muhammadan-Resulullah (2) (I testify that Muhammad is God’s messenger)
4) Hayya ala-s-Salah (2) (Come to prayer)
5) Hayya ala-l-Falah (2) (Come to salvation and prosperity)
6) Allahu Akbar (2) (God is the Greatest)
7) Lailaha-illallah (1) (There is no deity save God)
Who is the first Muazzin (Caller)?
He is Bilal the Abyssinian Muslim who had a melodious voice. He for the first time called the believers to pray in congregation.
What are the units/rikats of prayer?
They are:
Fajr Zuhr Asr Maghrib Isha
2 sunnah 4 sunnah 4 sunnah 3 fard 4 sunnah
2 fard 4 fard 4 fard 2 fard 4 farz
2 sunnah 2 sunnah
3 witr
______________________________________________
4 Rikats 10 Rikats 8 Rikats 5 Rikats 13 Rikats
What is the meaning of Fard-Salah (prayer)?
A Muslim must pray five times a day. These compulsory prayers are called Fard in Arabic. Each unit of prayer is called a Rikat.
What are the fard prayers?
Fard Prayers are :
Fajr : 2 Rikats
Zuhr : 4 Rikats
Asr : 4 Rikats
Maghrib : 3 Rikats
Isha : 4 Rikats
Jumu’ah : 2 Rikats Replaces Zuhr on Friday)
19 Rikats totaly
What is the Witr?
The witr prayer is Wadjib (necessary). It consists of three rikats and is performed after night prayer. Witr is performed just like the three Fard rikats of the magrib (sunset prayer), with the difference that in the third rikat, the worshiper recites some verses from the Qur’an after the Fatiha.
What are the Sunnah Prayers?
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) prayed extra Rikats in addition to Fard Prayers. These Prayers are called Sunnah. They are as follows:
Fajr (Morning) 2 rikats before Fard
Zuhr (Noon) 4 before Fard and 2 after
Asr (Afternoon) 4 (optional) before Fard
Maghrib (Sunset) 2 rikats after Fard
Isha (Night) 4 (optional) before Fard and 2 rikats after Fard
What is Tahajjud?
Between Isha and Fajr, a prayer called Tahajjud was regularly offered by the Prophet. It was obligatory for the Prophet. Devout Muslims try to follow this practice, but it is not obligatory for them. Thajjud might be regarded as reading Qur’an at this time of the night, because in the middle of quiteness, it gives a deep and spritual sense of taste to the believer.
Muslims also pray additional prayers other than Fard and Sunnah. These are called Nafilah (Optional).
What are the times when we must not pray?
1) From the beginning of sunrise until after 15-20 minutes later.
2) When the Sun is at it’s height (Zenith) or (Meridian).
3) From the beginning of sunset until it is fully set.
What are the kinds of prayers?
They are;
1) The five compulsory (daily prayers)
2) Friday prayer
3) The Bairam / Eid (religious festival) prayers
4) Funeral prayer
What is Sajdat as-Sahw (Forgetfulness Sajda)?
We perform sajda sahw for two reasons:
1) If we forget to perform one of the Fards of the prayer in the prescribe,
2) When we forget to perform one of the Wadjibs of the prayer in time or when we ignores it totaly.
As soon as the worshipper offers Salam, he performs two Sajdas in the usual prayer and then sits down to recite “Tahiyyat”, “Salawat” and the prescribed prayers as usual. This prayers ends with Salam.
What is the meaning of Friday Prayer?
Muslims are a community. Friday-prayer or Salat al-Jum’a is a community prayer. Friday Prayer is offered in congregation. Each week on Fridays, Muslims living in an area get together to offer this prayer.
People assemble for this prayer immediately afternoon.
Imam (prayer leader) delivers a sermon (Khutbah). After sermon, the Imam leads two rikats fard prayer. After the fard prayer, four Rikats or more Rikats Sunnah Prayers are offered privately by each person.
What is the meaning of Funeral Prayer?
When a Muslim dies, his body is given a wash and then funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah) is offered in congregation. This prayer unlike other prayers has neither any ruku (bowing) nor any Sajdah (prostration) and you do not have to recite tashahhud. Funeral Prayer is collective obligation (Fard al-Kifayah) on all the Muslims of the locality of the dead person. It is a kind that if some people perform it, others escape from responsibility. This is contrary to Individual-Obligation (Fard al-Ayn) which requires everybody to perform it respectively such as daily prayers.
“Establish Salah to remember Me (Allah).” (Tâ-Hâ 20: 14)
Salah is the practical proof of our faith in Allah and Islam. It has been made compulsory at certain fixed time. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Salah at fixed times has been enjoined on the Believers.” (Nisâ 4: 103)
When we analyze the Islamic prayer and study its unique nature, it will reveal to us that it is not merely a physical motion or a void recital of the Holy Book. It is a matchless formula of intellectual mediation and spiritual devotion, of moral elevation and physical exercise, all combined. It should always be borne in mind that God does not need man’s prayer, because He is free of all needs. He is only interested in our prosperity and well being in every sense. When He emphasizes the necessity of prayer and charges us with any duty, He means to help us; because whatever good we do is for our own benefit, and whatever offence we commit is against our own souls. Here, too, man is the centre of gravity, and his common interest is the main concern. Here is an explaination of the effectiveness of the Islamic prayer:
1) It strengthens the belief in the Existence and Goodness of God ant transmits this belief into the innermost recesses of man’s heart.
2) It enlivens this belief and makes it constructive in the practical course of life.
3) It helps man to realize his natural and instictive aspirations to greatness and high morality, to excellence and virtuous growth.
4) It purifies the heart and developes the mind, cultivates the conscience and comforts the soul.
5) It fosters the good and decent elements in man, and supresses the evil and indecent inclinations.
What are the five daily prayers and their times?
The five daily prayers are;
Fajr : from dawn until just before sunrise
Zuhr : after mid-day until afternoon
Asr : from late afternoon until daylight ends (dusk)
Maghrib : after sunset until daylight ends
Isha’ : night until midnight or dawn
Our Prophet said that: “All the Earth has been given Me as a place for prayers (prostration) and as a purifier.”
And he also said that: “Tell your children to pray when they are seven and warn them for omission (of Prayers) at ten.”
How can we have purity?
We can have a full bath of the whole body with pure water or have partial ablution, cleaning only parts of the body (Fresh-Wudu). The full bath is called Ghusl and the latter is Wudu (Ablution) in Arabic. Cleanliness of the body and clothes is called Taharah / Purification. We may be clean outwardly and still not be pure. It is especially important to remove all trace of urine or excrement from the clothes worn for Salah / Prayer. We must be clean and pure for Prayer. The holy Qur’an says:
“Surely, Allah loves those who turn to Him and those who care for cleanliness.” (Baqara 2: 222)
Muslims are not allowed to have a shower in the nude in the presence of others.
Why do we need to perform prayer (salah)?
We perform salah to remember Allah our Creator and to be close to Him and to gain His favour and benefaction. The Qur’an asks as to establish Salah to remember God and to purify ourselves inwardly so that we can refrain from all evil things.
What is Qiblah?
Stand upright on your prayer mat facing the direction of Al-Ka’bah. The direction we face to is called Qiblah in Arabic. Qiblah is in the south east from Turkey.
How do you make your Niyyah for prayer?
Before we can begin to perform prayer (salah) we must first prepare ourselves. This preparation includes making sure we are clean and this is done by carrying out Wudu. Wudu (Ablution) is essential for performing Salah. So we can not perfom our salah without first taking Wudu.
These are the steps to take :
After performing the ablution, the worshipper stands up facing Qibla. Prayers begin with the Niyyah (intention), the worshipper’s intention, expressing that he is proposing to pray, for example, the two Fard (obligatory) Rikats. Then he utters the words “Allahu Akbar” “God is the Greatest.” With his thumbs he touches the lobes of his ears, his hands are opened on each side of his face. Then his right hand is placed upon the left over his breast while his eyes look at the ground.
What is Ruku?
Bowing down and saying; “Subhana Rabbiyal A’zim (Transliteration) (Glory to my Lord the Great) three times. This position is called Ruku.
What is Qiyam?
Stand up from the bowing position saying “Sami-Allahu-liman-hamidah (Allah hears those who praise Him). This standing is called Qiyam in Arabic.
What is the Takbirat al-Ihram?
Raising your hands up to your ears (women and girls up to their shoulders) and saying Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest) is called (Takbirat al-Ihram).
What is Sajdah/prostration?
Prostrate on the floor on your prayer mat saying “Allahu Akbar” with your forehead, nose, palms of both hands and your knees touching the floor. Recite “Subhane-Rabbiyal-A’la (Glory to my Lord the Highest) three times. This position is called Sajdah.
What is Adhan (Call to Prayer)?
Adhan informs Muslims about the timing of prayer, and is recited at the beginning of the prayer. It is strongly recommended that wherever possible Muslims should offer their compulsory (Fard) prayers in the Mosque. It is a confirmed Sunna ordered by the holy Prophet.
Who is Muazzin (Caller to Prayer)?
The person who gives the Adhan is called the Muazzin (Caller). While calling for prayer he stands in the Minaret or in the courtyard of the Mosque facing the Qiblah and raises his hands to his ears and calls out;
1) Allahu Akbar (4 times) (God is the Greatest)
2) Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah (2) (I testify that there is no deity save God)
3) Ashhadu anna Muhammadan-Resulullah (2) (I testify that Muhammad is God’s messenger)
4) Hayya ala-s-Salah (2) (Come to prayer)
5) Hayya ala-l-Falah (2) (Come to salvation and prosperity)
6) Allahu Akbar (2) (God is the Greatest)
7) Lailaha-illallah (1) (There is no deity save God)
Who is the first Muazzin (Caller)?
He is Bilal the Abyssinian Muslim who had a melodious voice. He for the first time called the believers to pray in congregation.
What are the units/rikats of prayer?
They are:
Fajr Zuhr Asr Maghrib Isha
2 sunnah 4 sunnah 4 sunnah 3 fard 4 sunnah
2 fard 4 fard 4 fard 2 fard 4 farz
2 sunnah 2 sunnah
3 witr
______________________________________________
4 Rikats 10 Rikats 8 Rikats 5 Rikats 13 Rikats
What is the meaning of Fard-Salah (prayer)?
A Muslim must pray five times a day. These compulsory prayers are called Fard in Arabic. Each unit of prayer is called a Rikat.
What are the fard prayers?
Fard Prayers are :
Fajr : 2 Rikats
Zuhr : 4 Rikats
Asr : 4 Rikats
Maghrib : 3 Rikats
Isha : 4 Rikats
Jumu’ah : 2 Rikats Replaces Zuhr on Friday)
19 Rikats totaly
What is the Witr?
The witr prayer is Wadjib (necessary). It consists of three rikats and is performed after night prayer. Witr is performed just like the three Fard rikats of the magrib (sunset prayer), with the difference that in the third rikat, the worshiper recites some verses from the Qur’an after the Fatiha.
What are the Sunnah Prayers?
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) prayed extra Rikats in addition to Fard Prayers. These Prayers are called Sunnah. They are as follows:
Fajr (Morning) 2 rikats before Fard
Zuhr (Noon) 4 before Fard and 2 after
Asr (Afternoon) 4 (optional) before Fard
Maghrib (Sunset) 2 rikats after Fard
Isha (Night) 4 (optional) before Fard and 2 rikats after Fard
What is Tahajjud?
Between Isha and Fajr, a prayer called Tahajjud was regularly offered by the Prophet. It was obligatory for the Prophet. Devout Muslims try to follow this practice, but it is not obligatory for them. Thajjud might be regarded as reading Qur’an at this time of the night, because in the middle of quiteness, it gives a deep and spritual sense of taste to the believer.
Muslims also pray additional prayers other than Fard and Sunnah. These are called Nafilah (Optional).
What are the times when we must not pray?
1) From the beginning of sunrise until after 15-20 minutes later.
2) When the Sun is at it’s height (Zenith) or (Meridian).
3) From the beginning of sunset until it is fully set.
What are the kinds of prayers?
They are;
1) The five compulsory (daily prayers)
2) Friday prayer
3) The Bairam / Eid (religious festival) prayers
4) Funeral prayer
What is Sajdat as-Sahw (Forgetfulness Sajda)?
We perform sajda sahw for two reasons:
1) If we forget to perform one of the Fards of the prayer in the prescribe,
2) When we forget to perform one of the Wadjibs of the prayer in time or when we ignores it totaly.
As soon as the worshipper offers Salam, he performs two Sajdas in the usual prayer and then sits down to recite “Tahiyyat”, “Salawat” and the prescribed prayers as usual. This prayers ends with Salam.
What is the meaning of Friday Prayer?
Muslims are a community. Friday-prayer or Salat al-Jum’a is a community prayer. Friday Prayer is offered in congregation. Each week on Fridays, Muslims living in an area get together to offer this prayer.
People assemble for this prayer immediately afternoon.
Imam (prayer leader) delivers a sermon (Khutbah). After sermon, the Imam leads two rikats fard prayer. After the fard prayer, four Rikats or more Rikats Sunnah Prayers are offered privately by each person.
What is the meaning of Funeral Prayer?
When a Muslim dies, his body is given a wash and then funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah) is offered in congregation. This prayer unlike other prayers has neither any ruku (bowing) nor any Sajdah (prostration) and you do not have to recite tashahhud. Funeral Prayer is collective obligation (Fard al-Kifayah) on all the Muslims of the locality of the dead person. It is a kind that if some people perform it, others escape from responsibility. This is contrary to Individual-Obligation (Fard al-Ayn) which requires everybody to perform it respectively such as daily prayers.
The Welfare Contrbution ( Zakah )
The literal and simple meaning of Zakah is purity. It purifies the property of the people and clears it from the shares which do not belong to it any more. When Zakah is payable, a certain percentage of the wealth should be distributed immediately in the right manner, because the owner no longer has moral or legal possession of that percentage. If he fails to do so, he is obviously retaining something which does not belong to him. This is corruption and plain usurpation from every point of view, moral and spiritual, legal and commercial.
It does not only purify the property of the contributor but also purifies his heart from selfishness and greed for wealth. In return, it purifies the heart of the recipient from envy and jealousy, from hatred and uneasiness; and it fosters in his heart; instead, goodwill and warm wishes for the contributor. As a result, the society at large will purify and free itself from class warfare and suspicion, from ill feelings an distrust, from corruption and disintegration, and from all such evils.
Zakah is an act of worship in which eligible Muslims pay a specified amount of money as a tax to be used to assist poor and needy persons in society. The annual payment of zakah “purifies” one’s income and wealth by reminding Muslims that their possessions are in reality a trust and a test from God, to be used not only for personal benefit, but for the benefit of others as well.
What is the rate of Zakah on your cash savings?
The rate of Zakah on our cash savings is two and a half per-cent. This rate applies to cash bank savings and gold and silver, jewellery. The rate for cattle and agricultural product is different.
Who are the due recipients of Zakah?
Zakah is compulsory payment and is neither Charity nor a Tax. Charity is optional and taxes can be used by the State for any purpose. But Zakah has to be spent under fixed headings as follows:
1) The poor Muslims, to relieve their distress;
2) The needy Muslims, to supply them with means whereby they can earn their livelihood;
3) The new Muslim converts, to enable them so settle down and meet their unusual needs;
4) The Muslim prisoners of war, to liberate them by payment of ransom money;
5) The Muslims in debt, to free them from their liabilites incurred under pressing necessities;
6) The Muslims in service of the cause of God by means of research or study.
What lessons do we get from the payment of Zakah?
a) The Payment of Zakah is means of keeping our wealth clear from greed and selfishness.
b) Zakah is a Compulsory Payment.
c) Zakah is an act of “Ibadah” (Worship and Obedience). It includes all activities of life if we do them to please Allah. We pay Zakah to gain Allah’s favour.
d) Zakah is one of the basic principles of economy in muslim society, based on Social-Welfare. Muslims are encouraged in the Qur’an to make voluntary contributions to help the poor and the needy.
It does not only purify the property of the contributor but also purifies his heart from selfishness and greed for wealth. In return, it purifies the heart of the recipient from envy and jealousy, from hatred and uneasiness; and it fosters in his heart; instead, goodwill and warm wishes for the contributor. As a result, the society at large will purify and free itself from class warfare and suspicion, from ill feelings an distrust, from corruption and disintegration, and from all such evils.
Zakah is an act of worship in which eligible Muslims pay a specified amount of money as a tax to be used to assist poor and needy persons in society. The annual payment of zakah “purifies” one’s income and wealth by reminding Muslims that their possessions are in reality a trust and a test from God, to be used not only for personal benefit, but for the benefit of others as well.
What is the rate of Zakah on your cash savings?
The rate of Zakah on our cash savings is two and a half per-cent. This rate applies to cash bank savings and gold and silver, jewellery. The rate for cattle and agricultural product is different.
Who are the due recipients of Zakah?
Zakah is compulsory payment and is neither Charity nor a Tax. Charity is optional and taxes can be used by the State for any purpose. But Zakah has to be spent under fixed headings as follows:
1) The poor Muslims, to relieve their distress;
2) The needy Muslims, to supply them with means whereby they can earn their livelihood;
3) The new Muslim converts, to enable them so settle down and meet their unusual needs;
4) The Muslim prisoners of war, to liberate them by payment of ransom money;
5) The Muslims in debt, to free them from their liabilites incurred under pressing necessities;
6) The Muslims in service of the cause of God by means of research or study.
What lessons do we get from the payment of Zakah?
a) The Payment of Zakah is means of keeping our wealth clear from greed and selfishness.
b) Zakah is a Compulsory Payment.
c) Zakah is an act of “Ibadah” (Worship and Obedience). It includes all activities of life if we do them to please Allah. We pay Zakah to gain Allah’s favour.
d) Zakah is one of the basic principles of economy in muslim society, based on Social-Welfare. Muslims are encouraged in the Qur’an to make voluntary contributions to help the poor and the needy.
The Fasting
Fasting (Sawm) the fourth Pillar of Islam is another Ibadah. All adult Muslim must fast from dawn to sunset every day of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar. This means abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking and conjugal-relations during the hours of Fasting. Travelers and the Sick can defer fasting during Ramadan and make up for it later.
On the spiritual and moral level, Fasting means struggling to develop self-restraint, God-consciousness and piety. Muslim strive in Ramadan to curb all detrimental desires and negative or uncharitable thoughts, and to Nurture love, patience, unselfishness and social consciousness. Here is an explaination of the spritual meaning of the Islamic Fasting:
It teaches man the principle of sincere love; because when he observes the Fasting he does it out of deep love for God. And the man who loves God truly is a man who really knows what love is.
It equips man with a creative sense of hope and an optimistic outlook on life; because when he fasts he hopes to please God and to see His Grace.
It imbues man with a genuine virtue of effective devotion, honest dedication and closeness to God; because when he fasts he does so for God and for His sake alone.
It cultivates in man a sound conscience, because the fasting person keeps his fast in secret as well as in public. In fasting, especially, there is no wordly authority to check man’s behaviour or compel him to observe the Fasting. He keeps it to please God ad satisfy his own conscience by being faithful in secret and in public.
It teaches man patience and unselfishness; because when he fasts he feels the pains of deprivation but endures patiently. Truly this deprivation may be only temporary, yet there is no doubt that the experience makes him realize the severe effects of such pains on others, who might be deprived of essential commodities for days or weeks or probably months together.
What lessons do we get from the Fasting?
Fasting develops self-control and helps us to overcome selfishness, greed, laziness and other faults. It helps us to remain truly obedient to Allah’s commands. That is why the Qur’an says:
“O, you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you that you are expected to be truly obedient.” (Baqara 2: 183)
The Month of Ramadan is a month of forgiveness and mercy.
What is Tarawih?
An additional prayer known as Tarawih is offered during Ramadan after “Isha” (20 Rikats) or (8 Rikats). This is a Sunnah-Prayer in which efforts are made to recite as much of the Qur’an as possible. In Many mosques, the Qur’an wholy is recited in Tarawih-Prayer. This Prayer is generally offered in congregation. Those who can not join a congregation can offer Tarawih at home. A pre-dawn meal known as Sahur is, also, taken in Ramadan.
What is the Eid al-Fitr?
At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, A day of thanks giving and happiness. It is one of the great occasions for the Muslim Community. On this day Muslims offer special prayers in congregation and thank Allah for His Blessings and Mercy.
On the spiritual and moral level, Fasting means struggling to develop self-restraint, God-consciousness and piety. Muslim strive in Ramadan to curb all detrimental desires and negative or uncharitable thoughts, and to Nurture love, patience, unselfishness and social consciousness. Here is an explaination of the spritual meaning of the Islamic Fasting:
It teaches man the principle of sincere love; because when he observes the Fasting he does it out of deep love for God. And the man who loves God truly is a man who really knows what love is.
It equips man with a creative sense of hope and an optimistic outlook on life; because when he fasts he hopes to please God and to see His Grace.
It imbues man with a genuine virtue of effective devotion, honest dedication and closeness to God; because when he fasts he does so for God and for His sake alone.
It cultivates in man a sound conscience, because the fasting person keeps his fast in secret as well as in public. In fasting, especially, there is no wordly authority to check man’s behaviour or compel him to observe the Fasting. He keeps it to please God ad satisfy his own conscience by being faithful in secret and in public.
It teaches man patience and unselfishness; because when he fasts he feels the pains of deprivation but endures patiently. Truly this deprivation may be only temporary, yet there is no doubt that the experience makes him realize the severe effects of such pains on others, who might be deprived of essential commodities for days or weeks or probably months together.
What lessons do we get from the Fasting?
Fasting develops self-control and helps us to overcome selfishness, greed, laziness and other faults. It helps us to remain truly obedient to Allah’s commands. That is why the Qur’an says:
“O, you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you that you are expected to be truly obedient.” (Baqara 2: 183)
The Month of Ramadan is a month of forgiveness and mercy.
What is Tarawih?
An additional prayer known as Tarawih is offered during Ramadan after “Isha” (20 Rikats) or (8 Rikats). This is a Sunnah-Prayer in which efforts are made to recite as much of the Qur’an as possible. In Many mosques, the Qur’an wholy is recited in Tarawih-Prayer. This Prayer is generally offered in congregation. Those who can not join a congregation can offer Tarawih at home. A pre-dawn meal known as Sahur is, also, taken in Ramadan.
What is the Eid al-Fitr?
At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, A day of thanks giving and happiness. It is one of the great occasions for the Muslim Community. On this day Muslims offer special prayers in congregation and thank Allah for His Blessings and Mercy.
Pilgrimage / Hajj
Hajj is the fifth Pillar of Islam. It is obligatory/fard for every adult, wise, strong and rich Muslim to go on the pilgrimage once in his life, walking around the Kaba and paying visits to the holy places. Poor, crippled, and paralysed persons are not obliged to go on pilgrimage.
Muslims are required to perform the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able to do so. Hajj is a time of turning away from the world in order to turn towards God and sincerely seek His forgiveness for past sins and errors. The rites of the Hajj commemorate the trials and sacrifices of Prophet Abraham, his wife Hajar, and their son Prophet Ishma’il. The city of Mecca, in modern-day Saudi Arabia, is the site of the pilgrimage because the Ka’bah, which was built by Abraham and Ishma’il as the first “house of worship” dedicated to the One God, is located there. The Hajj takes place over several days in the early part of twelfth month in the Islamic calendar, called Dhul-Hijjah.
Al-Ka’bah, known as Bai-tullah (House of Allah) is a cube-like, one storey building which is the first House ever built for the sole purpose of the worship of Allah. Allah has blessed this Al-Ka’bah. Muslims who can afford to make the journey and are physically fit come here every year from all over the world.
What are the conditions for Pilgrimage:
1) Putting on Ihram
2) Paying visits and walking around the Kaba (Tawaf)
3) Visiting and staying at Arafah, Mina and Muzdalifah
4) A fast walk between As-Safa and Al-Marwah near Al-Kabah
5) Throwing pebbles at three fixed places in Mina
6) Sacrifice of an animal (sheep, goat, cow or camel)
7) Cutting or shortening hair
What is the meaning of Ihram?
At the time of Hajj, while approaching Mecca, a pilgrim must put on ihram before reaching a point called Miqat (Station). Ihram is two sheets of unseen white cloth for men. This is a very simple form of dress. It represents the severance of all wordly connections. A pilgrim must wear in place of his normal everyday clothes. For a woman, Ihram is her ordinary dress. When he puts on ihram, the pilgrim expresses his intention (Niyyah) by saying “I intend to put on ihram for Hajj.”
What is the meaning of Black Stone (Hacar al-Aswad)?
The Arabic of the Black Stone is (Al-Hajar al-Aswad). It is on the Eastern Wall of the Ka’bah. The Black Stone was regarded as sacred by Muslims, a sacracy involves Muslims to respect it.
What is Talbiyah?
While in Ihram the Pilgrim recites Talbiyah as follows. “Here I am O Lord, here I am, here I am, You have no partner, here I am (3 times). Surely praise, blessings and the kingdom are for you. You have no Partner.”
What is the significance of putting an Ihram during Pilgrimage?
This change is very significant. It reminds the Pilgrim of his position in relation to Allah. He is a humble servant of his Creator. It also reminds him that after death he will be wrapped in white sheets and his favourite or expensive clothes will be left behind.
What lessons do we get from Pilgrimage?
Pilgrimage: The occasion may rightly be called the Annual International Muslim Assembly. During Pilgrimage the Islamic brotherhood becomes particularly evident and can be experienced in a special way by everyone who takes part. Barriers of language, territory, colour and race disappear and the bond of faith is upper most. Everyone has the same status in the House of Allah (The status of His servant).
“Help you one another in righteousness and piety but help you not one another in Sin and Rancour. Fear Allah, for Allah is strict in punishment.” (Maida 5: 2)
On the other hand, Hajj has in it all the lessons of Salah, Zakah and Fast and we offer Salah to remember Allah, pay Zakah to please Him and Fast only for His sake. During Salah, we present ourselves to Allah five times a day. But during Hajj we have to think of Allah all the time. At the time of Salah, we face towards Ka’bah but during Hajj we actually go there personally.
Zakah teaches us to pay part of our savings for welfare and other good causes for Allah’s sake. But during Hajj we must sacrifice much more of our money for the pleasure of Allah.
Sawm teaches us to control ourselves during daylight hours from eating, drinking or smoking or having conjugal relations. But in the state of Ihram there are many more restrictions.
Muslims are required to perform the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able to do so. Hajj is a time of turning away from the world in order to turn towards God and sincerely seek His forgiveness for past sins and errors. The rites of the Hajj commemorate the trials and sacrifices of Prophet Abraham, his wife Hajar, and their son Prophet Ishma’il. The city of Mecca, in modern-day Saudi Arabia, is the site of the pilgrimage because the Ka’bah, which was built by Abraham and Ishma’il as the first “house of worship” dedicated to the One God, is located there. The Hajj takes place over several days in the early part of twelfth month in the Islamic calendar, called Dhul-Hijjah.
Al-Ka’bah, known as Bai-tullah (House of Allah) is a cube-like, one storey building which is the first House ever built for the sole purpose of the worship of Allah. Allah has blessed this Al-Ka’bah. Muslims who can afford to make the journey and are physically fit come here every year from all over the world.
What are the conditions for Pilgrimage:
1) Putting on Ihram
2) Paying visits and walking around the Kaba (Tawaf)
3) Visiting and staying at Arafah, Mina and Muzdalifah
4) A fast walk between As-Safa and Al-Marwah near Al-Kabah
5) Throwing pebbles at three fixed places in Mina
6) Sacrifice of an animal (sheep, goat, cow or camel)
7) Cutting or shortening hair
What is the meaning of Ihram?
At the time of Hajj, while approaching Mecca, a pilgrim must put on ihram before reaching a point called Miqat (Station). Ihram is two sheets of unseen white cloth for men. This is a very simple form of dress. It represents the severance of all wordly connections. A pilgrim must wear in place of his normal everyday clothes. For a woman, Ihram is her ordinary dress. When he puts on ihram, the pilgrim expresses his intention (Niyyah) by saying “I intend to put on ihram for Hajj.”
What is the meaning of Black Stone (Hacar al-Aswad)?
The Arabic of the Black Stone is (Al-Hajar al-Aswad). It is on the Eastern Wall of the Ka’bah. The Black Stone was regarded as sacred by Muslims, a sacracy involves Muslims to respect it.
What is Talbiyah?
While in Ihram the Pilgrim recites Talbiyah as follows. “Here I am O Lord, here I am, here I am, You have no partner, here I am (3 times). Surely praise, blessings and the kingdom are for you. You have no Partner.”
What is the significance of putting an Ihram during Pilgrimage?
This change is very significant. It reminds the Pilgrim of his position in relation to Allah. He is a humble servant of his Creator. It also reminds him that after death he will be wrapped in white sheets and his favourite or expensive clothes will be left behind.
What lessons do we get from Pilgrimage?
Pilgrimage: The occasion may rightly be called the Annual International Muslim Assembly. During Pilgrimage the Islamic brotherhood becomes particularly evident and can be experienced in a special way by everyone who takes part. Barriers of language, territory, colour and race disappear and the bond of faith is upper most. Everyone has the same status in the House of Allah (The status of His servant).
“Help you one another in righteousness and piety but help you not one another in Sin and Rancour. Fear Allah, for Allah is strict in punishment.” (Maida 5: 2)
On the other hand, Hajj has in it all the lessons of Salah, Zakah and Fast and we offer Salah to remember Allah, pay Zakah to please Him and Fast only for His sake. During Salah, we present ourselves to Allah five times a day. But during Hajj we have to think of Allah all the time. At the time of Salah, we face towards Ka’bah but during Hajj we actually go there personally.
Zakah teaches us to pay part of our savings for welfare and other good causes for Allah’s sake. But during Hajj we must sacrifice much more of our money for the pleasure of Allah.
Sawm teaches us to control ourselves during daylight hours from eating, drinking or smoking or having conjugal relations. But in the state of Ihram there are many more restrictions.
The Stories of The Prophets
The Merciful God has sent many prophets at different times of history. Every known nation has had one prophet or more. All prophets were of good character and high honour. They were prepared and chosen by God to deliver His Message to mankind.
God intervenes in the world in two ways. One of them is “creation”, the other one is “revelation.” This second is realized by way of sending prophets. The prophets came to lead people to the true way and to help them in accessing the happiness in this world and in the next. Stories of the prophets are presented and dramatized in the Holy Qur’an to lead people to true path and render them ethical devouts in their works. So, God says in the Holy Book:
“There is a lesson for the men of understanding in Their Stories” (Yûsuf 12: 11)
Here is the list of the prophets mentioned in the Holy Qur’an together with their counterparts in the Bible.
As Muslims, we must believe in all prophets and messengers (Baqara 2: 285).
God intervenes in the world in two ways. One of them is “creation”, the other one is “revelation.” This second is realized by way of sending prophets. The prophets came to lead people to the true way and to help them in accessing the happiness in this world and in the next. Stories of the prophets are presented and dramatized in the Holy Qur’an to lead people to true path and render them ethical devouts in their works. So, God says in the Holy Book:
“There is a lesson for the men of understanding in Their Stories” (Yûsuf 12: 11)
Here is the list of the prophets mentioned in the Holy Qur’an together with their counterparts in the Bible.
As Muslims, we must believe in all prophets and messengers (Baqara 2: 285).
The Prophet Adam
Who lived on earth before human-beings?
Long ago, none lived on earth as humans. There were other creatures who fought among them. But they were not humans. Angels and Jinns were created before Adam. Allah then decided to create man to worship Him, to construct the world and to spread the peace over there.
Allah said to the Angels:
“I am going to send my Caliph (Deputy or Agent). The Angels said: “Will you send there someone who will make mischief and shed blood, while we praise you and glorify you. Allah said that “Surely I know what you do not know” (Baqara 2: 30).
The Angels, then, were silent. Allah also said to the Angels
“I am going to create a Mortal (Bashar) from clay. When I have fashioned him and given him life, you must prostrate before him.” (Sâd :38 71)
Who are Adam and Eve (Hawwa)?
Adam is the first Prophet on earth and father of humanity on earth, too. Allah created Adam from clay and gave him the nicest shape. He then commanded the Angels and the Jinn to prostrate before Adam as the sign of greatness of man over other beings.
The Angels obeyed the command but Iblis refused to prostrate Him and disobeyed Allah.
Eve is the wife of Adam and She is the mother of human-beings on earth. Adam (pbuh) was alone in Paradise so Allah created Eve as his wife. Allah created Eve from what He created Adam, not from the rib of Adam. Now, Adam was happy and living in Al-Jannah. Allah said to Adam:
“Live with your wife in Al-Jannah. Eat freely whatever you like there. But do not come close to that tree.” (Baqara 2: 35)
How about “Original Sin”?
Adam and Hawwa (the Arabic name for Eve) are believed to be the first human beings, endowed by God with faculties not found in other earthly creatures. Furthermore, the Qur’an indicates that the first souls of man and woman originated from a single soul cleft in two, demonstrating the spiritual coequality of men and women.
The blissful Garden in which Adam and Hawwa initially dwelt proved to be a testing ground as well. God had warned the two not to eat of the fruit from a particular tree, yet at the insistence of Iblis (Satan), the two succumbed to temptation. Realizing that they had transgressed against God, the two repented and were ultimately forgiven. Thereafter, God placed the two on earth and multiplied the human race in order to test humanity and give humans the opportunity to demonstrate their highest potential in the face of continued temptation from Satan and his minions.
According to the Qur’anic account, both Adam and Eve sinned equally when they disobeyed God’s command to stay clear of the forbidden tree; Eve does not figure as a temptress leading to “man’s downfall.” Furthermore, since God assigns every individual his or her freedom and responsibilities, Muslims do not believe in “Original Sin,” the concept that the sin of Adam is inherited by all humankind. Rather, Muslims believe that each person is personally accountable to God, and will be judged by Him according to their good and bad deeds, independent of those of others.
“Those who believe and work righteous deeds, from them shall We blot out all evil, and We shall reward them according to the best of their deeds.” (Ankabut 29: 7)
Who is Iblis?
Iblis was from the Jinns. Allah asked:
“What prevented you from prostrating before that which I have created?”
Iblis replied:
“I am better than him. You have created me from fire, but him you created from clay.” (A’raf 7: 12) and (Hijr 15: 32-33)
Allah then said:
“Get out of here you are cast out. My curse is on you till the Day of Judgement.” (Hijr 15: 34-35)
“Iblis vowed to misguide Adam and his children.” (A’raf 7: 14-18)
But as you know, Allah has given man knowledge and guidance to distinguish between right and wrong to avoid being misguided.
Although Satan or Devil is the enemy to human-being, he can only do harm to those who are the companions of him. He can not do any harm to believers whatsoever. It is said in the holy Qur’an:
“Verily Satan is an enemy to you; so treat him as a enemy, he only invites his adherents, that they may become companions of the Blazing Fire.” (Fatir 35: 6)
“Did I not enjoin on you, O ye Children of Adam, that you should not worship Satan; for that he was to you an enemy avowed?” (Maryam 19: 68)
What did Allah teach Adam?
Allah then taught Adam some names and asked the Angels to tell those names. The Angels said:
“Glory to you, we do not know more than you have taught us. Surely you are All-Knowing and the most Wise.” (Baqara 2: 31)
“Allah then asked Adam to say those names and He did so.” (Baqara 2: 33)
Turning to the Angels, Allah said:
“Did I not tell you that I know the secrets of heaven and earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?” (Baqara 2: 33)
God’s teaching Adam the names means to promote human above angels and to appoint him as the vicegerent on earth to act and to construct a place suitable to live in peace and harmony.
Why did Allah forbid Adam and Eve from the tree in Paradise?
This was intended to test them and teach them self-control. Allah, also wanted to see whether they used the knowledge given to them to save themselves from the evil tricks of Iblis.
What mistakes did Adam and Eve make when they were in Heaven and why did they ask Allah’s forgiveness?
Iblis was trying hard to misguide Adam and Eve. At last, he succeeded and tempted Adam and Eve to go to that tree. As soon as they approached the forbidden tree, Adam and Eve became bared. Until then, they did not know what bareness was.
They had no cause to be ashamed of it. But now they felt ashamed. They tried to cover themselves with leaves and to hide. But there was nowhere they could hide from Allah, the All-Knowing. Adam and Eve asked Allah’s Forgiveness and it was granted to them. So, some scholars interpreted that eating the forbidden fruit resembles to gain knowledge and awareness or self-consciousness.
What was the prayer of Adam and Eve to Allah after they were deceived by Devil?
They prayed:
“Our Lord we have wronged ourselves, and if you forgive us not and have not mercy on us, surely we are of the lost.” (A’raf 7: 23)
Why did Allah command Adam and Eve to descend to earth?
Because they approached the forbidden tree. He then commanded Adam and Eve to go down to earth and live there. But Allah was very kind and taught them the way to seek forgiveness. (Baqara 2: 38-39)
He also told them that He would send guidance for them, so that they would not deviate from the right-path.
Allah revealed guidance to Adam and He was made the first Prophet on earth.
The fact that Adam had first been in Paradise then he was sent to the world shows that Adam is not only a natural creature like other creatures, but additionally he has some metaphysical characteristics that make him different from others, so human beings, though they live in nature, do tend to keep in touch with beyond nature.
Long ago, none lived on earth as humans. There were other creatures who fought among them. But they were not humans. Angels and Jinns were created before Adam. Allah then decided to create man to worship Him, to construct the world and to spread the peace over there.
Allah said to the Angels:
“I am going to send my Caliph (Deputy or Agent). The Angels said: “Will you send there someone who will make mischief and shed blood, while we praise you and glorify you. Allah said that “Surely I know what you do not know” (Baqara 2: 30).
The Angels, then, were silent. Allah also said to the Angels
“I am going to create a Mortal (Bashar) from clay. When I have fashioned him and given him life, you must prostrate before him.” (Sâd :38 71)
Who are Adam and Eve (Hawwa)?
Adam is the first Prophet on earth and father of humanity on earth, too. Allah created Adam from clay and gave him the nicest shape. He then commanded the Angels and the Jinn to prostrate before Adam as the sign of greatness of man over other beings.
The Angels obeyed the command but Iblis refused to prostrate Him and disobeyed Allah.
Eve is the wife of Adam and She is the mother of human-beings on earth. Adam (pbuh) was alone in Paradise so Allah created Eve as his wife. Allah created Eve from what He created Adam, not from the rib of Adam. Now, Adam was happy and living in Al-Jannah. Allah said to Adam:
“Live with your wife in Al-Jannah. Eat freely whatever you like there. But do not come close to that tree.” (Baqara 2: 35)
How about “Original Sin”?
Adam and Hawwa (the Arabic name for Eve) are believed to be the first human beings, endowed by God with faculties not found in other earthly creatures. Furthermore, the Qur’an indicates that the first souls of man and woman originated from a single soul cleft in two, demonstrating the spiritual coequality of men and women.
The blissful Garden in which Adam and Hawwa initially dwelt proved to be a testing ground as well. God had warned the two not to eat of the fruit from a particular tree, yet at the insistence of Iblis (Satan), the two succumbed to temptation. Realizing that they had transgressed against God, the two repented and were ultimately forgiven. Thereafter, God placed the two on earth and multiplied the human race in order to test humanity and give humans the opportunity to demonstrate their highest potential in the face of continued temptation from Satan and his minions.
According to the Qur’anic account, both Adam and Eve sinned equally when they disobeyed God’s command to stay clear of the forbidden tree; Eve does not figure as a temptress leading to “man’s downfall.” Furthermore, since God assigns every individual his or her freedom and responsibilities, Muslims do not believe in “Original Sin,” the concept that the sin of Adam is inherited by all humankind. Rather, Muslims believe that each person is personally accountable to God, and will be judged by Him according to their good and bad deeds, independent of those of others.
“Those who believe and work righteous deeds, from them shall We blot out all evil, and We shall reward them according to the best of their deeds.” (Ankabut 29: 7)
Who is Iblis?
Iblis was from the Jinns. Allah asked:
“What prevented you from prostrating before that which I have created?”
Iblis replied:
“I am better than him. You have created me from fire, but him you created from clay.” (A’raf 7: 12) and (Hijr 15: 32-33)
Allah then said:
“Get out of here you are cast out. My curse is on you till the Day of Judgement.” (Hijr 15: 34-35)
“Iblis vowed to misguide Adam and his children.” (A’raf 7: 14-18)
But as you know, Allah has given man knowledge and guidance to distinguish between right and wrong to avoid being misguided.
Although Satan or Devil is the enemy to human-being, he can only do harm to those who are the companions of him. He can not do any harm to believers whatsoever. It is said in the holy Qur’an:
“Verily Satan is an enemy to you; so treat him as a enemy, he only invites his adherents, that they may become companions of the Blazing Fire.” (Fatir 35: 6)
“Did I not enjoin on you, O ye Children of Adam, that you should not worship Satan; for that he was to you an enemy avowed?” (Maryam 19: 68)
What did Allah teach Adam?
Allah then taught Adam some names and asked the Angels to tell those names. The Angels said:
“Glory to you, we do not know more than you have taught us. Surely you are All-Knowing and the most Wise.” (Baqara 2: 31)
“Allah then asked Adam to say those names and He did so.” (Baqara 2: 33)
Turning to the Angels, Allah said:
“Did I not tell you that I know the secrets of heaven and earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?” (Baqara 2: 33)
God’s teaching Adam the names means to promote human above angels and to appoint him as the vicegerent on earth to act and to construct a place suitable to live in peace and harmony.
Why did Allah forbid Adam and Eve from the tree in Paradise?
This was intended to test them and teach them self-control. Allah, also wanted to see whether they used the knowledge given to them to save themselves from the evil tricks of Iblis.
What mistakes did Adam and Eve make when they were in Heaven and why did they ask Allah’s forgiveness?
Iblis was trying hard to misguide Adam and Eve. At last, he succeeded and tempted Adam and Eve to go to that tree. As soon as they approached the forbidden tree, Adam and Eve became bared. Until then, they did not know what bareness was.
They had no cause to be ashamed of it. But now they felt ashamed. They tried to cover themselves with leaves and to hide. But there was nowhere they could hide from Allah, the All-Knowing. Adam and Eve asked Allah’s Forgiveness and it was granted to them. So, some scholars interpreted that eating the forbidden fruit resembles to gain knowledge and awareness or self-consciousness.
What was the prayer of Adam and Eve to Allah after they were deceived by Devil?
They prayed:
“Our Lord we have wronged ourselves, and if you forgive us not and have not mercy on us, surely we are of the lost.” (A’raf 7: 23)
Why did Allah command Adam and Eve to descend to earth?
Because they approached the forbidden tree. He then commanded Adam and Eve to go down to earth and live there. But Allah was very kind and taught them the way to seek forgiveness. (Baqara 2: 38-39)
He also told them that He would send guidance for them, so that they would not deviate from the right-path.
Allah revealed guidance to Adam and He was made the first Prophet on earth.
The fact that Adam had first been in Paradise then he was sent to the world shows that Adam is not only a natural creature like other creatures, but additionally he has some metaphysical characteristics that make him different from others, so human beings, though they live in nature, do tend to keep in touch with beyond nature.
The Prophet Noah ( Nuh )
Many hundreds years passed after Adam and the Earth was filled with his children. As time passed, the children of Adam, forgot Allah and started to worship statues made of stones. They became bad and they started to lie, steal and some became mean and greedy.
Allah the most Merciful, sent Noah (pbuh) to these people to bring them back to rihgt path and to His worship. Noah invited the people to come back to Tawhîd. He asked them to give up Idol worshipping and all other vices which they had developed.
He warned them about the Day of Judgement. (A’raf 7: 64)
Noah did his best for many years to make people come worship of Allah. But the people did not listen. They laughed at him, mocked him, despised him and called him crazy and a liar. (Shuarah 26: 118)
Noah lived 950 years and within this long period, only a few people responded to his call. Even his sons and wife did not believe in him. (Ankabut 29: 14)
Noah (pbuh) became so fed up with the stubbornness of their opposition to the truth that he ultimately prayed to Allah.
“Leave not upon the land any one from the unbelievers.” (Nouh 71: 26)
So, He cried unto His Lord saying:
“I am vanquished, so give help” (Qamar 54: 10)
He also prayed to Allah to save him and his followers. And Allah, Almighty, accepted Noah’s prayer and asked him to build an Ark. Noah started to construct the ark. It was not an easy task. But prophet Noah persevered. (Hûd 11: 37)
What did people say when they saw Noah building an ark?
They laughed at him and thought that Noah must have gone mad. They could not see the reason for building so huge an ark, hundreds of miles away from the sea. (Hûd 11: 38) Noah told the mockers that a flood would soon overcome them and they would have no place to take shelter. The people laughed even more. But Allah’s plans soon came true and the disbelievers saw it happened.
Suddenly the skies became dark and thunder and rain followed, it rained and rained and the whole land became flooded. There was water everywhere. Every living thing drowned except those that were in the ark which was floating on top of the water. (Qamar 54: 11-15)
What did Allah order Noah to take into the ark when it was finished?
After many days of hard work the ark was completed and Allah asked Noah to take a pair (one male, one female) of all the animals, into the ark. Noah and his followers boarded afterwards. (Hûd 11: 40-41)
How long did the Flood last?
The Flood lasted five months and it destroyed all the disbelievers, even Noah’s own son, an unbeliever, was not saved. Noah had asked permission of Allah to take his son in the ark but he was refused. He was told that an unbelieving son was no part of his family. Noah felt sorry and Allah forgave him. Noah and his followers were safe in the Ark. (Hûd 11: 45-47)
At last the skies began to clear and the ark halted at Mount Judi. Noah and his followers disembarked. Thus Allah saved Noah and his followers. So, Noah is called the second of our father on earth.
Allah the most Merciful, sent Noah (pbuh) to these people to bring them back to rihgt path and to His worship. Noah invited the people to come back to Tawhîd. He asked them to give up Idol worshipping and all other vices which they had developed.
He warned them about the Day of Judgement. (A’raf 7: 64)
Noah did his best for many years to make people come worship of Allah. But the people did not listen. They laughed at him, mocked him, despised him and called him crazy and a liar. (Shuarah 26: 118)
Noah lived 950 years and within this long period, only a few people responded to his call. Even his sons and wife did not believe in him. (Ankabut 29: 14)
Noah (pbuh) became so fed up with the stubbornness of their opposition to the truth that he ultimately prayed to Allah.
“Leave not upon the land any one from the unbelievers.” (Nouh 71: 26)
So, He cried unto His Lord saying:
“I am vanquished, so give help” (Qamar 54: 10)
He also prayed to Allah to save him and his followers. And Allah, Almighty, accepted Noah’s prayer and asked him to build an Ark. Noah started to construct the ark. It was not an easy task. But prophet Noah persevered. (Hûd 11: 37)
What did people say when they saw Noah building an ark?
They laughed at him and thought that Noah must have gone mad. They could not see the reason for building so huge an ark, hundreds of miles away from the sea. (Hûd 11: 38) Noah told the mockers that a flood would soon overcome them and they would have no place to take shelter. The people laughed even more. But Allah’s plans soon came true and the disbelievers saw it happened.
Suddenly the skies became dark and thunder and rain followed, it rained and rained and the whole land became flooded. There was water everywhere. Every living thing drowned except those that were in the ark which was floating on top of the water. (Qamar 54: 11-15)
What did Allah order Noah to take into the ark when it was finished?
After many days of hard work the ark was completed and Allah asked Noah to take a pair (one male, one female) of all the animals, into the ark. Noah and his followers boarded afterwards. (Hûd 11: 40-41)
How long did the Flood last?
The Flood lasted five months and it destroyed all the disbelievers, even Noah’s own son, an unbeliever, was not saved. Noah had asked permission of Allah to take his son in the ark but he was refused. He was told that an unbelieving son was no part of his family. Noah felt sorry and Allah forgave him. Noah and his followers were safe in the Ark. (Hûd 11: 45-47)
At last the skies began to clear and the ark halted at Mount Judi. Noah and his followers disembarked. Thus Allah saved Noah and his followers. So, Noah is called the second of our father on earth.
The Prophet Abraham ( Ibrahim )
Abraham known as the Khalilullah (Friend of Allah). (Nisâ 4: 125) He lived in the city of Urfa. During his time there were people worshipping to the stars. These people are called in the Holy Qur’an as Sabiins.
Abraham’s father was Azar. He used to make idols and sell them. The people of the area used to worship these idols. They had a temple for these idols in which they worshipped. Abraham once asked his father: “O my father! Why do you worship idols which can neither speak nor hear”? Azar became angry and warned Abraham not to ask such questions.
Abraham was an intelligent boy. It was strange for him to see people bowing down before these stone-made idols which could neither move nor talk. They could not even drive away the flies which sat on their eyes and nose. Abraham wondered why people worshipped such powerless statues.
After thinking much about it, he thought he would give the people a practical lesson. Once when people were busy celebrating a festival, Abraham went to the temple where the idols were kept.
He asked the idols: “How do you do? Here is the food and drink. Why do not you help yourselves?” The stone-idols were silent of course.
Abraham then took an axe and began to break all the idols except the biggest which he spared with a purpose.
When he had finished, he left the axe hanging round the shoulder of the biggest idol. (Anbiya 21: 58)
When people came to the temple to worship the idols, they were astonished to see the pitiful condition of their gods. “Who has done this mischief?” they asked themselves. They thought of Abraham the only one who talked disrespectfully about the idols. Soon Abraham was found out.
They asked him, “Who broke the idols?” Abraham calmly replied: “Ask the biggest idol. The people knew that the idols could not talk. They said: “O, Abraham do not you know that the idols can not talk?.” Abraham retorted: “Why do you worship them, then? They can not talk, move or understand anything. Why do you ask them for favour?”
The people had no answer. They were sure that it was Abraham who broke the idols. They could not let the matter go easily. They called people and decided to burn Abraham alive. They had to defend their gods. (Anbiya 21: 59,68)
Allah was in his favour and nothing could harm Abraham as he did the right thing. A big fire was set up and Abraham was thrown into it as the punishment of breaking the idols. But a Miracle happened!
The fire did no harm to him. Allah protected him, people were amazed to see it and they could not believe their eyes. But it was so, Abraham was happy and his persecutors felt sad and helpless. (Anbiya 21: 69-70)
Allah protected Abraham from fire. Because Allah was in his favour.
“Verily God will defend those who believe....” (Hajj 22: 38)
How did Abraham find Allah (cc) by using his reason?
Abraham’s enquiring mind was in search of Allah. He thought and thought. He, initially, thought that the shining Moon might be his Lord. But when the Moon vanished, He said to himself:
“No, a vanishing thing can not be my Lord.” He looked at the Sun and considered it as God. It also went down. Abraham said to himself, “No, this, also, can not be my Lord.” He came to the conclusion that only the ever-lasting, ever-present and All-Knowing, Almighty can be his Lord. The Stars, the moon, the sun can not be Lord.” (En’am 6: 76-79)
In this way Abraham given the light of truth by Allah was a messenger and servant of Allah. (Nahl 16: 120-122) ; (Maryam 19: 41)
What lessons can we learn from the story of the prophet Abraham?
It is narrated in the Qur’an that Abraham couldn’t get a baby from his first wife Sarah, so married to Hajar and promised God that if he had a son he would sacrifice him. After Ishmael was born and grew up, Abraham, as a result of this promise, began dreaming that God wanted him to keep his promise and to sacrifice his unique son. He thought that was an order from God, but in fact it was only a dream. When he attemted to sacrifice Ishmael Allah saved him and his son. This was a big test. Abraham loved Allah more than anything else. He was ready to sacrifice his son Ishmael on Allah’s command. Allah accepted Abraham’s readiness and sent a lamb to be sacrificed instead of Ishmael. (Saffat 37: 101-107) We observe the festival of Eid al-Adha to commemorate this event. After Abraham passed the test, God gave him Isaac as a reward son from Sarah who was bare until then.
Abraham’s father was Azar. He used to make idols and sell them. The people of the area used to worship these idols. They had a temple for these idols in which they worshipped. Abraham once asked his father: “O my father! Why do you worship idols which can neither speak nor hear”? Azar became angry and warned Abraham not to ask such questions.
Abraham was an intelligent boy. It was strange for him to see people bowing down before these stone-made idols which could neither move nor talk. They could not even drive away the flies which sat on their eyes and nose. Abraham wondered why people worshipped such powerless statues.
After thinking much about it, he thought he would give the people a practical lesson. Once when people were busy celebrating a festival, Abraham went to the temple where the idols were kept.
He asked the idols: “How do you do? Here is the food and drink. Why do not you help yourselves?” The stone-idols were silent of course.
Abraham then took an axe and began to break all the idols except the biggest which he spared with a purpose.
When he had finished, he left the axe hanging round the shoulder of the biggest idol. (Anbiya 21: 58)
When people came to the temple to worship the idols, they were astonished to see the pitiful condition of their gods. “Who has done this mischief?” they asked themselves. They thought of Abraham the only one who talked disrespectfully about the idols. Soon Abraham was found out.
They asked him, “Who broke the idols?” Abraham calmly replied: “Ask the biggest idol. The people knew that the idols could not talk. They said: “O, Abraham do not you know that the idols can not talk?.” Abraham retorted: “Why do you worship them, then? They can not talk, move or understand anything. Why do you ask them for favour?”
The people had no answer. They were sure that it was Abraham who broke the idols. They could not let the matter go easily. They called people and decided to burn Abraham alive. They had to defend their gods. (Anbiya 21: 59,68)
Allah was in his favour and nothing could harm Abraham as he did the right thing. A big fire was set up and Abraham was thrown into it as the punishment of breaking the idols. But a Miracle happened!
The fire did no harm to him. Allah protected him, people were amazed to see it and they could not believe their eyes. But it was so, Abraham was happy and his persecutors felt sad and helpless. (Anbiya 21: 69-70)
Allah protected Abraham from fire. Because Allah was in his favour.
“Verily God will defend those who believe....” (Hajj 22: 38)
How did Abraham find Allah (cc) by using his reason?
Abraham’s enquiring mind was in search of Allah. He thought and thought. He, initially, thought that the shining Moon might be his Lord. But when the Moon vanished, He said to himself:
“No, a vanishing thing can not be my Lord.” He looked at the Sun and considered it as God. It also went down. Abraham said to himself, “No, this, also, can not be my Lord.” He came to the conclusion that only the ever-lasting, ever-present and All-Knowing, Almighty can be his Lord. The Stars, the moon, the sun can not be Lord.” (En’am 6: 76-79)
In this way Abraham given the light of truth by Allah was a messenger and servant of Allah. (Nahl 16: 120-122) ; (Maryam 19: 41)
What lessons can we learn from the story of the prophet Abraham?
It is narrated in the Qur’an that Abraham couldn’t get a baby from his first wife Sarah, so married to Hajar and promised God that if he had a son he would sacrifice him. After Ishmael was born and grew up, Abraham, as a result of this promise, began dreaming that God wanted him to keep his promise and to sacrifice his unique son. He thought that was an order from God, but in fact it was only a dream. When he attemted to sacrifice Ishmael Allah saved him and his son. This was a big test. Abraham loved Allah more than anything else. He was ready to sacrifice his son Ishmael on Allah’s command. Allah accepted Abraham’s readiness and sent a lamb to be sacrificed instead of Ishmael. (Saffat 37: 101-107) We observe the festival of Eid al-Adha to commemorate this event. After Abraham passed the test, God gave him Isaac as a reward son from Sarah who was bare until then.
The Prophets Moses ( Musa )
What is the meaning of Banî Israel (The Sons of Israel)?
The followers of the prophet Jacob (Ya’qub), father of prophet Joseph, are called Banî Israel (Israelites). Banî Israel had lived in Egypt since the days of the prophet Joseph.
Who was Pharaoh (Fir’awn)?
The name Pharaoh was a general attribute for the kings and rulers of Egypt. But specifically when the Qur’an refers to name Pharaoh, it means Ramses II to whom Moses was sent. This ruler of Egypt looked upon Banî Israel as foreigners and treated them harshly.
When was Moses born?
Moses, son of Imran, was born in Egypt 450 years after Joseph (Yusuf) during the critical time when the rulers of Egypt were scared that one day the Banî Israel would grow in number and be powerful. So, Pharaoh ordered to kill every male child born in the Family of Israel (Qasas 28: 4-6).
Because the men of Pharaoh were looking for every newly born child of Banî Israel to kill Moses mother wanted to hide him. She managed to conceal him for three months and when she could not manage any more she was inspired by Allah to put Moses into a specially made box and threw it into the river. (Ta-Ha 20: 3 ); (Anfal 8: 39)
Moses’ sister Mary (Maryam) was asked to watch the floating box from a distance to avoid suspicion. (Qasas 28: 11)
When the box reached the other shore, one of the members of Pharaoh’s family picked it up and Moses was then taken to Pharaoh’s wife and she was very glad to have the baby and adopted him. Because he was a lovely baby boy. (Qasas 28: 8-9)
Moses’ sister went to Pharaoh’s palace and suggested a nanny to look after the baby, a woman who would be suitable to suckle him. This woman was none other than Moses’ mother. (Qasas 28: 12)
So Moses came back to his mother’s lap in this way, it has been proved that none could destroy a person whom Allah would protect.
Moses was growing up in Pharaoh’s house and during this time he came across an Egyptian who was beating an Israelite. Moses gave the Egyptian a blow and killed him accidentally (Qasas 28: 15). Thus Moses left Pharaoh’s house and went to Midian.
Moses stayed there (Midian) for ten years before moving on to Tuwa, a valley at the foot of the mountain Tur Sinai. Here Moses was given the Divine-guidance by Allah and was selected as a Messenger of Allah. (Qasas 28: 30)
The Hill of Mountain
at Tur Sinai in Egypt
What did Allah bestow on Moses?
Allah bestowed on Moses two Miracles.
1) A ‘rod’ which when thrown down would turn into a living serpent.
2) And the ability to make his hand shine, after it was drawn out from under his arm. (Ta-Ha 20: 17-22)
Who was Aaron (Harun)?
Aaron is Moses’ brother. Moses begged Allah to make his brother Aaron his helper and Allah granted his prayer. Because Moses had a speech defect, Aaron would help him. (Ta-Ha 20: 24-36)
Why did Moses and Aaron go to Pharaoh?
Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and they argued with him, telling him that Almighty Allah had chosen Moses to save the Israelites (Ta-Ha 20: 47-54) He would rescue them from the oppression of the Egyptians. Pharaoh refused to let the Israelites go.
When Pharaoh made fun of Moses, Moses showed his signs to impress upon that his message was true.
Moses threw his rod on the ground and it changed into a serpent. Moses picked it up and it turned again into a rod. Pharaoh and his followers were amazed to see this. Pharaoh and his magicians could hardly believe their eyes and his magicians bowed to the truth and they professed their faith in Allah.
Thus Pharaoh became angry and began to torture the Banî Israel even more.
When Pharaoh began to torture the Banî Israel. It was during this time that Allah commanded Moses to leave Egypt with his followers (Ta-Ha 20: 77).
Moses asked his followers to get ready and they set out at night to avoid Pharaoh’s notice and reached the shore of the Nile. They were chased by Pharaoh and his soldiers.
When Pharaoh and his soldiers almost reached the Moses and his followers at this moment that (in front of them was the mighty Nile and behind were Pharaoh’s soldiers). Allah ordered Moses to throw his rod in the water. And as he did so, The Nile was divided into two and a road was ready in the middle, allowing the Israelites to cross it. (Shuara 26: 52-65).
Pharaoh was following, but when the Israelites reached the other shore and Pharaoh was in the middle of the Nile, water from both sides suddenly poured in and the road was no longer there. Pharaoh and his soldiers were drowned in this way. This is how Allah punishes transgressors and helps his devout servants.
The followers of the prophet Jacob (Ya’qub), father of prophet Joseph, are called Banî Israel (Israelites). Banî Israel had lived in Egypt since the days of the prophet Joseph.
Who was Pharaoh (Fir’awn)?
The name Pharaoh was a general attribute for the kings and rulers of Egypt. But specifically when the Qur’an refers to name Pharaoh, it means Ramses II to whom Moses was sent. This ruler of Egypt looked upon Banî Israel as foreigners and treated them harshly.
When was Moses born?
Moses, son of Imran, was born in Egypt 450 years after Joseph (Yusuf) during the critical time when the rulers of Egypt were scared that one day the Banî Israel would grow in number and be powerful. So, Pharaoh ordered to kill every male child born in the Family of Israel (Qasas 28: 4-6).
Because the men of Pharaoh were looking for every newly born child of Banî Israel to kill Moses mother wanted to hide him. She managed to conceal him for three months and when she could not manage any more she was inspired by Allah to put Moses into a specially made box and threw it into the river. (Ta-Ha 20: 3 ); (Anfal 8: 39)
Moses’ sister Mary (Maryam) was asked to watch the floating box from a distance to avoid suspicion. (Qasas 28: 11)
When the box reached the other shore, one of the members of Pharaoh’s family picked it up and Moses was then taken to Pharaoh’s wife and she was very glad to have the baby and adopted him. Because he was a lovely baby boy. (Qasas 28: 8-9)
Moses’ sister went to Pharaoh’s palace and suggested a nanny to look after the baby, a woman who would be suitable to suckle him. This woman was none other than Moses’ mother. (Qasas 28: 12)
So Moses came back to his mother’s lap in this way, it has been proved that none could destroy a person whom Allah would protect.
Moses was growing up in Pharaoh’s house and during this time he came across an Egyptian who was beating an Israelite. Moses gave the Egyptian a blow and killed him accidentally (Qasas 28: 15). Thus Moses left Pharaoh’s house and went to Midian.
Moses stayed there (Midian) for ten years before moving on to Tuwa, a valley at the foot of the mountain Tur Sinai. Here Moses was given the Divine-guidance by Allah and was selected as a Messenger of Allah. (Qasas 28: 30)
The Hill of Mountain
at Tur Sinai in Egypt
What did Allah bestow on Moses?
Allah bestowed on Moses two Miracles.
1) A ‘rod’ which when thrown down would turn into a living serpent.
2) And the ability to make his hand shine, after it was drawn out from under his arm. (Ta-Ha 20: 17-22)
Who was Aaron (Harun)?
Aaron is Moses’ brother. Moses begged Allah to make his brother Aaron his helper and Allah granted his prayer. Because Moses had a speech defect, Aaron would help him. (Ta-Ha 20: 24-36)
Why did Moses and Aaron go to Pharaoh?
Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and they argued with him, telling him that Almighty Allah had chosen Moses to save the Israelites (Ta-Ha 20: 47-54) He would rescue them from the oppression of the Egyptians. Pharaoh refused to let the Israelites go.
When Pharaoh made fun of Moses, Moses showed his signs to impress upon that his message was true.
Moses threw his rod on the ground and it changed into a serpent. Moses picked it up and it turned again into a rod. Pharaoh and his followers were amazed to see this. Pharaoh and his magicians could hardly believe their eyes and his magicians bowed to the truth and they professed their faith in Allah.
Thus Pharaoh became angry and began to torture the Banî Israel even more.
When Pharaoh began to torture the Banî Israel. It was during this time that Allah commanded Moses to leave Egypt with his followers (Ta-Ha 20: 77).
Moses asked his followers to get ready and they set out at night to avoid Pharaoh’s notice and reached the shore of the Nile. They were chased by Pharaoh and his soldiers.
When Pharaoh and his soldiers almost reached the Moses and his followers at this moment that (in front of them was the mighty Nile and behind were Pharaoh’s soldiers). Allah ordered Moses to throw his rod in the water. And as he did so, The Nile was divided into two and a road was ready in the middle, allowing the Israelites to cross it. (Shuara 26: 52-65).
Pharaoh was following, but when the Israelites reached the other shore and Pharaoh was in the middle of the Nile, water from both sides suddenly poured in and the road was no longer there. Pharaoh and his soldiers were drowned in this way. This is how Allah punishes transgressors and helps his devout servants.
The Prophet Jesus ( Isa )
What is Islam’s view of Jesus?
Muslims believe that Jesus was a very important prophet of God, and that he was indeed the Messiah awaited by the Jews of ancient Palestine. Like Christians, Muslims believe Jesus’ mission was to reestablish justice among people and rectify deviations that had developed in the religion of the One God. Muslims share with Christians belief in Jesus’ unique birth and various miracles performed by him.
“Lo! The angels said: ‘O Mary! Behold, God sends thee the glad tiding, through a word from Him, of a son who shall become known as the Christ Jesus, son of Mary, of great honour in this world and in the life to come, and of those who are drawn near to God.” (Al-i Imran 3: 45)
However, Muslims do not believe in Jesus’ divinity, and do not consider Jesus the “Son of God”, since to do so would contradict the Qur’anic concept of God’s Unity (Oneness). Furthermore, since the concept of “Original Sin” does not exist in Islam, Jesus (nor any other prophet or person) does not play a redemptive role in human salvation. In other words, there is no concept of “vicarious atonement” in Islam. Moreover, Muslims do not share the Christian belief in Jesus’ crucifixion. According to the Qur’an, Jesus was assumed (taken up) to the realm of God to spare him such a fate.
In the Qur’an, God’s creation of Jesus, who had no father, is likened to His creation of Adam, who had neither father nor mother. Both, fashioned out of earth’s elemental components, are viewed as direct mani-festations of God’s Divine Command: “Be!”
Why did Allah the Merciful send a prophet to the Banî Israel again?
The Banî Israel were given many favours by Almighty Allah. But they were very ungrateful. They violated Allah’s orders, ridiculed the prophets and killed some of them. They started to worship idols and made Allah’s Message a mockery.
Thus Allah the Merciful again sent a prophet to bring them to the right way.
This Prophet was Jesus, son of Mary. (Baqara 2: 87). Allah bestowed Gospel (The New Testament) on him and Jesus confirmed what was in Torah (Tawrat=The Old Testament).
Why was the birth of Jesus (pbuh) a miracle?
Because he was born of the virgin Mary without a father, by Allah’s command (Maryam 19: 17-21). Allah can do anything He wishes. Everything is possible for Him. When Allah wants to get something done He only says, Be and it becomes. We know that Adam was created by Allah without a father and a mother. So, It was easy for Him (Allah) to create Jesus without a father.
How old was Jesus when he received a revelation?
Baby-Jesus born of virgin Mary was able to talk even as a baby. He was commissioned as a prophet when he was 30, and He acted as a prophet for three years. (Maryam 19: 29-34)
What were the miraculous powers that Allah bestowed upon Jesus?
1) Jesus could make living birds out of clay
2) He could heal Leprosy within minutes
3) He could restore the eyes of the blind.
4) He could also make the dead come alive (etc.)
All these Miracles were given to him by Allah. The Qur’an mentions these miraculous powers. (Al-i Imran 3: 46-51)
Did Jesus died on the cross according to Qur’an?
According to the Qur’an, prophet Jesus was not crucified to death, rather he died later and his soul was taken up by Allah, the Almighty and the most wise. (Nisâ 4: 157-158)
What is the Trinity?
In the Qur’an Christians are criticized for saying that God is “the third of three.” (Maida 5: 73) It may be that some Christians at the time believed Jesus and Maryam were gods apart from God. However, the correct Christians belief in Trinity is not a belief in three gods. Christians believe in one God but they believe that God has three essential aspects or attributes. They use metaphoric or allegorical language to express these aspects of the nature of God.
Why do Christians call God “Father”?
By this image Christians mean that God is the loving creator and origin of all things. They do not mean that God is like a human father.
What do Christians mean when they call Jesus “Son of God”?
Christians do not believe that God has any physical attributes so obviously the term “Son of God” is not meant to be literal. It is allegorical or metaphorical. God does not have children in the way human beings have children. Because Christians believe that Jesus is God’s Word, they call him “Son” to emphasize the closeness of the God’s Word to God.
Muslims believe that Jesus was a very important prophet of God, and that he was indeed the Messiah awaited by the Jews of ancient Palestine. Like Christians, Muslims believe Jesus’ mission was to reestablish justice among people and rectify deviations that had developed in the religion of the One God. Muslims share with Christians belief in Jesus’ unique birth and various miracles performed by him.
“Lo! The angels said: ‘O Mary! Behold, God sends thee the glad tiding, through a word from Him, of a son who shall become known as the Christ Jesus, son of Mary, of great honour in this world and in the life to come, and of those who are drawn near to God.” (Al-i Imran 3: 45)
However, Muslims do not believe in Jesus’ divinity, and do not consider Jesus the “Son of God”, since to do so would contradict the Qur’anic concept of God’s Unity (Oneness). Furthermore, since the concept of “Original Sin” does not exist in Islam, Jesus (nor any other prophet or person) does not play a redemptive role in human salvation. In other words, there is no concept of “vicarious atonement” in Islam. Moreover, Muslims do not share the Christian belief in Jesus’ crucifixion. According to the Qur’an, Jesus was assumed (taken up) to the realm of God to spare him such a fate.
In the Qur’an, God’s creation of Jesus, who had no father, is likened to His creation of Adam, who had neither father nor mother. Both, fashioned out of earth’s elemental components, are viewed as direct mani-festations of God’s Divine Command: “Be!”
Why did Allah the Merciful send a prophet to the Banî Israel again?
The Banî Israel were given many favours by Almighty Allah. But they were very ungrateful. They violated Allah’s orders, ridiculed the prophets and killed some of them. They started to worship idols and made Allah’s Message a mockery.
Thus Allah the Merciful again sent a prophet to bring them to the right way.
This Prophet was Jesus, son of Mary. (Baqara 2: 87). Allah bestowed Gospel (The New Testament) on him and Jesus confirmed what was in Torah (Tawrat=The Old Testament).
Why was the birth of Jesus (pbuh) a miracle?
Because he was born of the virgin Mary without a father, by Allah’s command (Maryam 19: 17-21). Allah can do anything He wishes. Everything is possible for Him. When Allah wants to get something done He only says, Be and it becomes. We know that Adam was created by Allah without a father and a mother. So, It was easy for Him (Allah) to create Jesus without a father.
How old was Jesus when he received a revelation?
Baby-Jesus born of virgin Mary was able to talk even as a baby. He was commissioned as a prophet when he was 30, and He acted as a prophet for three years. (Maryam 19: 29-34)
What were the miraculous powers that Allah bestowed upon Jesus?
1) Jesus could make living birds out of clay
2) He could heal Leprosy within minutes
3) He could restore the eyes of the blind.
4) He could also make the dead come alive (etc.)
All these Miracles were given to him by Allah. The Qur’an mentions these miraculous powers. (Al-i Imran 3: 46-51)
Did Jesus died on the cross according to Qur’an?
According to the Qur’an, prophet Jesus was not crucified to death, rather he died later and his soul was taken up by Allah, the Almighty and the most wise. (Nisâ 4: 157-158)
What is the Trinity?
In the Qur’an Christians are criticized for saying that God is “the third of three.” (Maida 5: 73) It may be that some Christians at the time believed Jesus and Maryam were gods apart from God. However, the correct Christians belief in Trinity is not a belief in three gods. Christians believe in one God but they believe that God has three essential aspects or attributes. They use metaphoric or allegorical language to express these aspects of the nature of God.
Why do Christians call God “Father”?
By this image Christians mean that God is the loving creator and origin of all things. They do not mean that God is like a human father.
What do Christians mean when they call Jesus “Son of God”?
Christians do not believe that God has any physical attributes so obviously the term “Son of God” is not meant to be literal. It is allegorical or metaphorical. God does not have children in the way human beings have children. Because Christians believe that Jesus is God’s Word, they call him “Son” to emphasize the closeness of the God’s Word to God.
The Life of Muhammad (pbuh), The Prophet
The Holy Prophet Muhammad was born into the tribe of Quraysh in the city of Mecca in 570 C.E. His father, Abdullah, died before his birth. When Muhammad was six years old, his mother, Amina became ill and died. Thus, at a very young age Muhammad experienced the loss of his parents and became an orphan.
For the next few years Muhammad was entrusted to his grandfather, Abd al-Muttalib. When Muhammad was eight years old, his grandfather also passed away. His uncle Abu Talib, a well-respected member of the Quraysh tribe, took responsibility for him. Muhammad grew up to become an honest and trustworthy businessman. Indeed, Muhammad’s upright and dependable reputation earned him the designation al-Amin (the Trustworthy One) among his fellow Meccans, and even invited a marriage proposal from Khadijah, a businesswoman in Mecca for whom Muhammad worked.
At the age of twenty-five, Muhammad married Khadijah, a widow who was his elder by fifteen or three years. Their marriage lasted twenty-five years, until Khadijah’s death. Muhammad and Khadijah had seven children: two sons died in early childhood, and four daughters lived to bless their household.
While most of his fellow Meccans were polytheists, Muhammad refused to worship the traditional tribal deities and often retreated to meditate and worship the One God of his ancestor, Abraham. At the age of forty, while meditating in the cave of Hira on the mountain above Mecca, Muhammad received the first of many revelations, beginning with the Arabic word Iqra, meaning “Read”, “Recite” and “Summon.” Soon afterwards, he was commanded to convey the Divine message and thus became the last messenger of God, according to the Qur’an.
“Read, in the name of thy Lord, Who created man, out of a clot (embryo). Proclaim! And thy Lord is Most Bountiful, He Who taught the use of the pen Taught man that which he knew not.” (‘Alaq 96: 1-5)
Muhammad spent the remaining twenty-three years of his life receiving revelations from God and advocating the message of Islam among the peoples of the Arabian peninsula and working to implement the principles and teachings of Islam in human society. After suffering severe persecution from the polytheistic Meccans for 11 years, he and his fellow Muslims emigrated to Yathrib, a city 200 miles north of Mecca, where he established Islamic rule. The city was renamed Madinah (short for Madinat an-Nabi, City of the Prophet). In the following years, the message of Islam brought more and more tribes in the Arabian peninsula into the fold, creating a new community based on common religious principles, rather than tribal or other affiliations. Muhammad died in 632 C.E. at the age of 63. His tomb is located adjacent to the Masjid an-Nabawi (Prophet’s Masjid) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, in what used to be his quarters next to the original masjid of the city.
Muhammad is our great and beloved prophet. It is through Muhammad (pbuh) that Allah has completed the Islamic way of life.
No other person in the history of mankind has left so deep an impact on the life of his followers as Muhammad (pbuh). He is the last Messenger of Allah, his life is the best example for us to follow. He has shown us, how to obey Allah, the Lord of the Universe. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Say (O, Muhammad) if you love Allah, follow me, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Al-i Imran 3: 31)
What was Muhammad’s role as the last prophet?
Islam teaches that Muhammad’s role as the final prophet of God was to confirm the authentic teachings of previous prophets and to rectify mistakes or innovations that followers of previous monotheistic faith traditions had introduced into the original religion of humankind. Muhammad is also viewed as the last ring for the completion of God’s guidance to humanity; the scope of his mission is seen as encompassing all people, rather than a specific region, group or community. Furthermore, his life serves as a perfect model of how to practice Islam fully.
“We have sent you forth to all humankind, so that you may give them good news and warn them.” (Saba’ 34: 28)
Muslims believe that the original revelations or scriptures given by God to prophets such as Abraham, Moses, David, and Jesus had been lost or modified over time. Moreover, the ethno-religious concept of a “chosen people” found in Judaism and the doctrines of Trinity and Original Sin found in Christianity are believed to be later developments that grew away from the original practices and scriptures of previous prophets.
Essentially, Muslims view Islam not as a “new” religion, since it embodies the same message and guidance that God revealed to all His messengers, but rather a reestablishment of the “primordial” religion of humankind, centered around recognizing God’s Oneness and adhering to His commands. The view of Islam as having achieved its final form through the scripture given to Muhammad and his own teachings is an important aspect of faith. Consequently, Muhammad is considered the final messenger of God, the “Seal” of the Prophets. Any claimants to prophethood after Muhammad, ., are not accepted by Muslims.
Is the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) the last and the final Prophet of Allah?
Yes, he is the last and the final prophet of Allah. There will be no prophet after him. So God called him “The seal of the Prophets.” This case is similar to an envelope. If you cover an envelope and seal it, nobody can uncover it. As such prophet Muhammad sealed the chain of the prophets and nobody can claim to be prophet.
“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Apostle of God, and the Seal of the Prophets....” (Ahzab 33: 40)
Qur’an says:
“We sent you (Muhammad) not but as a blessing for the Universe.” (Anbiya 21: 107)
What is the difference between Muhammad and other human-beings?
The difference between Muhammad (pbuh) and us is that he received guidance directly from Allah through revelation but we did not.
Muhammad (pbuh) was not only a messenger but a man as well. He was not a super human-being but a mortal man and the last of the Messengers of Allah. (Kahf 18: 110)
When did the Prophet accompany his uncle on a business trip to Syria?
Muhammad was growing up in the affectionate care of his uncle, Abu Talib. At the age of twelve Muhammad accompanied him on a business-trip to Syria. When their caravan reached Busra, in Syria, a Christian priest called Bahira invited them to a dinner. This was unusual. Abu Talib and his caravan had passed this way before several times but they were never asked in before by priest.
Why did Bahira (a Christian priest) invite all the members of the caravan to a dinner and why did Bahira insist on having Muhammad join in the dinner?
All the members of the caravan went to the dinner, except Muhammad who stayed behind, probably to look after the camels and the merchandise. Bahira insisted on having Muhammad join in the dinner. When Muhammad did, Bahira asked him a few questions and Muhammad answered them precisely.
When he heard the answers, Bahira (a person well versed in Christianity and the Bible) could recognize from his reading that the boy Muhammad was going to be a prophet in the future.
He advised Abu Talib to take special care of his nephew. When they finished their trading Abu Talib lost no time in returning to Mecca with Muhammad.
What is the significance of Alliance for Charity (Hilf al-Fudul)?
When Muhammad was fifteen a local war broke out during the Hajj season between the tribes of Quraish and Hawazin. According to Meccan tradition war was forbidden in the pilgrimage season. Despite this, the war lasted four years with intervals.
The reason for the war seemed silly to Muhammad and he felt quite disgusted at the nonsense bloodshed. He inspired many of them to take steps to stop the war and make peace.
Hilf al-Fudul organisation was formed to help the oppressed, the poor and the needy. Muhammad was present at the meeting. The participation of Muhammad in Hilf al-Fudul is a proof of his concern and interest in the welfare activities, even in his youth.
Why did Allah send his prophets mostly from shepherds?
Muhammad (pbuh) was very proud of having spent his boyhood as a shepherd. He used to say, “Allah sent no prophet who was not a shepherd. Moses was a shepherd, David was also a shepherd.”
The reason for this might be that Allah wanted His messengers to have experience of life as a shepherd to help deal with human-beings, with rare patience, in preaching Allah’s Message. It is very difficult to control a flock of sheep, goats, camels which do not have any understanding or sense of right and wrong. It needs a lot of patience and care to handle animals. The experience was eventually very useful for the messengers in their task of propagating and transmitting the Message of Allah.
What are the physical features of the prophet Muhammad?
Muhammad was a handsome man of medium build neither very tall nor short. He had a large head, very black thick hair, a wide forehead, heavy eye brows and large dark eyes with long eye lashes.
He had a fine nose, well placed teeth, thick beard, a long handsome neck and a wide chest and shoulders. His skin was light coloured and he had thick palms and feet.
He walked steadily with firm steps. His appearance had the mark of deep thought and contemplation. His eyes gave the feeling of the authority of a commander.
When did Muhammad marry to Khadijah?
As Muhammad grew up, he helped in running the business of his uncle who was managing his family with some difficulty. During this time, Muhammad received an offer from a noble lady named Khadijah to look after her business affairs. Muhammad’s fame as an honest and upright young man had now become well known in Mecca. That is why Khadijah made the proposal.
Muhammad accepted the proposal and set out for Syria with the goods of Khadijah. Accompanied by another of her employes called Maysarah, Muhammad’s made second business trip to Syria. Muhammad made big profits for Khadijah on this trip because of his intelligence, skill and honesty. It was almost double what anyone else had earned for Khadijah in the past.
On their return, Maysarah hurried to Khadijah and told her about his experience of Muhammad and about the big profits he made for her. Khadijah, the daughter of Khuwailid, was a determined, intelligent and noble woman. She was deeply impressed by the ability, character and performance of Muhammad (pbuh).
Khadijah decided to send a proposal of marriage to Muhammad (pbuh). On the advice of his uncle Abu Talib. Muhammad consented to the proposal and the wedding ceremony went ahead. Now Muhammad was a family man and the marriage marked the beginning of a new phase in his life.
When and where did the prophet Muhammad receive the revelation first?
The Meccans worshipped idols made by themselves. Muhammad used to think about the stupidity of idol worshipping. The idols could not move, talk or do anything. How could they respond to the request of human-beings?
Cave Hira where the prophet received revelation first
All these appeared nonsense to Muhammad’s thinking mind. The retreat in the Cave Hira was to find answers to these deep-rooted feelings on his own.
Muhammad had reached the age of forty. One night while he was in the Cave Hira in Ramadan the Angel appeared. After transmitting the first verses the Angel Jibrail said: “O Muhammad! You are the Messenger of Allah and I am Jibrail and wherever he looked, Muhammad saw Jibrail flying in the distance. He stood still until the Angel disappeared.
Which verses of Qur’an the Prophet received first?
These verses are:
“Read (and summon) in the name of your Lord who created you.
Created man from a clot of blood.
Read: Your Lord is most Generous.
Who taught by the pen.
Taught man what he did not know.” (Alaq 96: 1-5)
How did Khadijah comfort her husband when he had returned home in panic?
When the Angel hugged the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) again much harder for the third time and then released him the first verses of Qur’an. Muhammad (pbuh) recited these verses and felt as though the words were written on his heart.
Then the Angel disappeared and Muhammad (pbuh) rushed home in a panic and sat close to Khadijah. He told her all that happened. Khadijah, his noble, loving and caring wife had faith in the character of her husband and comforted him saying: “Rejoice, O son of my uncle and be of good heart. I have hope that you will be the Prophet of his people. You have never done any wrong to anyone. You are kind to others and you help the poor. So, Allah will not let you down.”
Who was Waraqah bin Nawfal?
Waraqah bin Nawfal was a Christian and had knowledge of the scriptures of the Torah and the Gospel.
When Muhammad (pbuh) rushed home in a panic, he asked Khadijah to wrap him up with blankets. He was wrapped up and he fell asleep. And when Muhammad woke up, Khadijah took him to her cousin Waraqah bin Nawfal.
Waraqah heard all that happened from Muhammad and said: “This is the same one who keeps the secrets (Angle Gabriel) whom Allah had sent to Moses. I wish I were young and could live up to the time when your people would turn you out.”
Who were the first Muslims?
First; Khadijah, Muhammad’s wife accepted Islam, she encouraged and assured Muhammad (pbuh) about the success of his prophethood and declared her own acceptance of Islam. She thus became the first Muslim.
Second; Ali bin Abu Talib, Muhammad’s cousin.
Third; Zaid bin Harithah, his household-servant outside the household.
Forth; Abu Bakr was the first among Muhammad’s friends to become a Muslim.
How did Muhammad (pbuh) call the Meccans to the Message of Allah?
He climbed on the top of As-Safa and shouted at the people who saw him standing there, gathered below. Muhammad (pbuh) told them: “O men of Quraish! If I were to tell you that I see an army ready to attack on the otherside of the mountain, would you believe me? They answered, “Yes, why not? We trust you and never found you telling a lie.” Muhammad said: “Know, then, that I am a warner and that I warn you of severe punishment. Allah has commanded me to warn you, my nearest kinsmen that I can assure you of good on this Earth and in Heaven, if you declare that “there is no god but Allah.”
Abu Lahab his uncle, became red with anger and spoke bad of his nephew. He said “Damn you! Did you assemble us for this?
Allah revealed:
“May the hands of Abu Lahab perish, doomed he is, his wealth and his properties shall not save him, he shall be thrown into a flaming fire of Hell.” (Tabbat 111: 3)
What were the proposals of Utbah bin Rabiah to the prophet Muhammad?
Utbah bin Rabiah was the leader of the Quraish and put some proposals to the prophet Muhammad. He suggested “If what you want is money, we will gather for you our property, so that you can be the richest of us. If you want honour, we will make you our chief, so that no-one can decide anything apart from you, if you want sovereignty, we will make you king.”
The prophet refused all these suggestions saying:
“O, my uncle and Quraish! By Allah if they put the Sun in my right hand and the Moon in my left, and ask me to give up my mission, I shall not do it until Allah has made it victorious or I perish there in.” And Abu Talib was moved by the firmness of his nephew and said, “Go and say what you please, for by Allah I shall never withdraw my support from you.”
Who were the first Muslims to suffer at the hands of the unbelievers of Mecca?
The first Muslims to suffer of the unbelievers of Mecca were Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas, Bilal bin Rabah and Ammar bin Yathir.
From the women Muslims: Sumaiyyah, Lubainah, Nahdiyyah and Umm Ubais.
For example; Bilal, an Abyssinian’s slave, was tortured by his master as he embraced Islam. He was thrown onto the sand under the burning sun with a heavy stone laid on his chest for no other reason than his acceptance of Islam. Bilal gallantly faced his torture and used to proclaim: “Allah the ONE, Allah the ONE.” Abu Bakr set him free from his infidel master.
Second example; Once Muhammad (pbuh) was almost strangled by an unbeliever while praying suddenly Abu Bakr arrived to rescue him.
Abu Lahab’s wife, Umm Jamil, used to throw rubbish and thorny bushes from her house at Muhammad’s (pbuh) door and way and all that Muhammad (pbuh) was able to do was to remove them.
Muhammad (pbuh) continued his preaching with even more enthusiasm and firmness and the hostility of the unbelievers also intensified.
The Meccans did all they could to stop him and his followers. But nothing worked. Islamic continued to flourish among the Meccans despite the false propaganda.
During these sufferings Hamzah, the young uncle of the Prophet accepted Islam. His acceptance of the faith added strength to Islam. For Hamzah was a brave man. His acceptance of Islam compelled the Quraish to abandon some of their harassment.
Allah commanded the Prophet to tell the unbelievers in clear terms that there could be no such compromise on matters of basic principles. Muhammad (pbuh) was asked to declare them:
“You have your religion and I have mine.” (Kafirun 109: 6)
Where did the Muslims emigrate to first?
Eighty three Muslims, excluding children, emigrated to Abyssinia in groups. It was the first emigration of the Muslims who had to leave their country for the sake of Allah. The first group was of ten people. Abyssinia (Ethiopia) was being ruled by Najjashi (Negus) at that time.
What is the meaning of Boycott?
The Quraish were seething at the gradual increase in the strength of the Muslims. They plotted another assault and decided on a total Boycott of the family of Hashim and Muttalib. The clans of Hashim and Muttalib demonstrated great firmness during the Boycott. The document of Boycott which was kept in the Ka’bah was eaten up by white ants, all except the name of Allah.
The Boycott continued for three years.
Why the Prophet had a very difficult day in Ta’if?
When prophet Muhammad (accompanied by Zaid bin Harithah) went to three important people of Ta’if, a City sixty miles to the west of Mecca, and invited them to Islam, All three refused and insulted him.
Then, the urchins threw stones at the Prophet’s legs and feet. The prophet used to say that the Day in Ta’if was the most difficult day of his life.
What is Al-Isra?
After the severe shocks of the death of Abu Talib and Khadijah and the cruel treatment received at Ta’if, Muhammad longed for some comfort. It was not long before he got it. It happened in the form of a remarkable and eventful Nocturnal Journey to Jerusalem called Al-Isra. There is also a Surah in the Qur’an by this name, and the first verse of the Surah signifies it.
Al-Aqabah in Mecca
When and where was the first Covenant of Al-Aqabah performed?
When Muhammad (pbuh) opened public preaching, he met a group of people from Madinah (then called Yathrib) at the time of Hajj and he invited them to accept Islam. They responded to his call and became Muslims. There were six of them. They returned to Madinah as believers and invited the rest of their tribes to join the new faith.
Next year twelve people from Madinah came during Hajj and the Prophet entered into an agreement with them at a place called Al-Aqabah in 621 CE. This agreement is known as the Covenant of Al-Aqabah.
In this pledge they agreed;
a) To obey none but Allah,
b) Neither to steal nor commit adultery,
c) Neither to kill their children nor commit any evil and not to disobey Allah.
They were told by Muhammad that if they lived under this covenant, Allah would be pleased with them and reward them with Paradise.
When and where did the second-covenant of Al-Aqabah take place?
A second covenant with the Muslims of Madinah was concluded in 622 CE in the same place, Al-Aqabah. In all, seventy-three people including two women took part in this pledge.
They are;
a) This covenant was an extension of the first.
b) It was agreed that the Muslims of Madinah would protect and help the Prophet against all enemies.
c) As they would protect their own women and children.
d) All dangers which would arise out of this covenant were ex-plained by Al-Abbas (Prophet’s uncle) to the Madinite Muslims in clear terms.
But still the Madinite Muslims said “we take him (the Prophet) despite all threats to property, wealth and life. Tell us O Prophet of Allah ! What will be our reward, if we remain true to this oath?”
The Prophet answered “Paradise.” They stretched out their hands to him and he to them, and in this way the covenant was concluded.
The second covenant included clauses about war situations which made it a duty for the Madinite Muslims to defend the Prophet in the event of external attack from Mecca.
With this aggreement Muslims had a place to take shelter, an ally in time of war and danger.
Why did the Prophet (pbuh) change his working strategy after the second Covenant of Al-Aqabah?
Because, for thirteen years, he had tried his best to preach the message of Allah to the people of Mecca. But the Meccan soil was not fertile for this.
Madinah provided him with fresh, receptive ground where he saw the seed of Islam and decided to use evaluate this opportunity.
Why did Muhammad (pbuh) command the Muslims of Mecca to start emigrating to Madinah?
In order to strengthen the bond with the Muslims there the Meccan Muslims started moving to Madinah, individually and in small groups.
The Unbelievers tried ferociously to stop this and became even more malicious.
God praising the believers said in the Qur’an as to emigration:
“Those who believed and those who suffered exile and fought (and strove and struggled) in the Path of Allah, They have the hope of the Mercy of Allah and Allah is oft-forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Baqara 2: 218)
“And say “Truth has (now) arrived and falsehood perished: for falsehood is (by its nature) bound to perish.” (Isra 17: 81)
The Hijrah: Initial steps of forming a new way of life and civilization
“Those who have left their homes and were driven out there from and suffered harm in My cause and fought and were slain. Verily, I will blot out from them their iniquities and admit them into Gardens, with rivers flowing beneath... “ (Âl-i Imrân 3: 195)
“He who forsakes his home in the Cause of Allah. Finds in the Earth many a refuge... For Allah and His Messenger, His reward becomes due and sure with Allah and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful.” (Nisâ 4: 100)
What is the Hijrah (Emigration)?
When the life became very difficult for Muslims in Madine, Muslims were obliged to leave their homes and lands for Makka for the sake of Allah and His Pleasure!
What are the meaning of Ansar (The Helpers) and Muhajirun (The Immigrants)?
a)The Muslims of Madinah are known as Ansar (Helpers).
b)And those of Mecca who emigrated from Mecca to Madinah are known as Muhajirun (Emigrants) in Islamic history.
Why was the Prophet (pbuh) waiting in Mecca with Abu-Bakr and Ali?
He was waiting for permission from Allah to emigrate himself. Abu Bakr, his closest friend stayed behind on the Prophet’s advice. Ali, the cousin of the Prophet, also, stayed behind. Abu Bakr was to accompany the Prophet.
When did the Prophet (pbuh) emigrate to Madinah?
The Unbelievers potted to kill Muhammad (pbuh). The permission to migrate to Madinah also had come.
Muhammad secretly left Mecca at night in 622 CE with Abu Bakr. A specially formed group of unbelievers laid in wait at night around the Prophet’s house to kill him as he came out. Ali was left behind to sleep in the Prophet’s bed and the Prophet quitely left. In the morning they found Ali in the Prophet’s bed and were dumb-founded.
The Unbelievers fooled by the wit of the Prophet now organized a through search on the road to Madinah and offered a prize of 100 camels for the capture of Muhammad. Suraqah was almost successful but failed in the end. His horse fell down three times in his pursuit to kill Muhammad and in the end he gave up his sinister aim, taking the falls as bad Omens then he accepted Islam and became a Muslim.
How many days did they stay in the Cave Thawr?
The Prophet and his companion Abu Bakr had left just before dawn and proceeded to the Cave Thawr, to the south of Mecca. They stayed in the Cave for three days where Abu-Bakr’s servant brought them food in the evenings. They left the Cave on the third day and started for Madinah.
The Cave-Thawr
Where is Quba?
It is a place near Madinah. The prophet spent a few days there before proceeding to Madina. In Quba the Prophet waited for Ali who endangered his life for him. After fulfilling the mission assigned to him, Ali joined the Holy Prophet in Quba. Thus together they started towards Madina.
After a tiresome, exhausting and very difficult journey, the Prophet accompanied by Abu Bakr reached Quba. They stayed there for two weeks and the Prophet founded a Mosque in Quba.
The Quba Mosque which was founded by the Prophet is the first one to be built.
How did the Prophet enter Madinah?
The Prophet got on his camel and entered Madinah. The People of Madinah who had anxiously waited the arrival of Muhammad became very happy and excited when they found him among them.
They gave him a hero’s welcome. Then the Prophet (pbuh) allowed his camel to kneel where it liked. It knelt first in a place which was owned by two orphans and got up to kneel finally in front of the house of Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari which became the first residence of the Prophet in Madinah.
Why the Hijrah of the Prophet is a new chapter in the history of Islam?
Hijrah has two sides ;
a) The sad and heart-breaking scene of leaving the beloved birth place. On the one hand a feeling of security and hope for the work of Islam more freely than before.
b) On the other, the Islamic Calendar started from the day of the Hijrah of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from Mecca to Madinah. Hijrah was the beginning of the new role for the Prophet as a Statesman and a Ruler. Thus his fifty three years of life in Mecca of which he spent thirteen eventful years as the Prophet of Allah ended.
End of Meccan Period
What is the meaning of Madinat an-Nabi?
Madinah was known at that time as Yathrib, it came to be known as Madinat an-Nabi, the Prophet’s city-after Muhammad’s (pbuh) arrival. Later it became known simply as Madinah-Al-Munawwarah (The Illuminated / Enlightened City)
Where is Masjid an-Nabi?
It is in Madinah al-Munawwarah. The Prophet then decided to construct a Mosque in Madinah. Soon, work began at a place which was purchased from it’s Orphan owners.
This was the place where the Prophet’s Camel (Quswa) had first knelt before it finally knelt in front of the house of Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari.
The Prophet’s residence was built next to the Mosque. Muhammad himself took part in the construction as an ordinary labourer.
The Masjid an-Nabi
Muhammad (pbuh) never hesitated to do any ordinary work, he used to mend his own clothes, repair his own shoes, do the shopping etc. In this respect he left for us a shining example.
How the prophet created Islamic brotherhood in Madinah?
The prophet’s first task was to form a solid bond of Faith and brotherhood between the Ansar and the Muhajirun.
He called a meeting of both communities and asked the Ansars to become brothers of the Muhajirun. He also suggested that they should share their property and other belongings with their migrant brothers.
After having settled in Madina and building a mosque which was indeed the military and constitutional base of muslims, the Prophet of Islam took the excellent initiative. He laid the foundation of Islamic brotherhood, so that great unity and sincerity could be created in Muslim society and so the emigrant Muslims would know that though they had lost a number of their friends and relatives and had been forced to leave their homeland, in return, they had gained brothers who were much more loyal and sympathetic from every point of view.
The Ansar did what they were asked by the Prophet. This was a rare event unmatched in human history, such was the powerful influence of Islam.
How many communities were there in Madinah?
The City had these communities:
a) The Ansar (the Helpers) of the tribes of Aws and Khazraj,
b) The Jews from the tribes of Qainuqa, Nadir and Quraizah,
c) The migrants from Mecca,
d) Christian people most of whom were slaves, not learned ones.
e) Other religious groups: Maniheists and Mazdaists.
When did Madinah become the capital of the Islamic Community?
When Muhammad became the leader of the city with the cementing of the bond of brotherhood, he had virtually inaugurated the Islamic Society. Madinah then became the capital of Islamic Community, the first Islamic City State.
The Islamic State of Madinah knew no distinction between the ruler and his subjects. Every citizen belonged to Allah and enjoyed equal rights. Islam doesn’t recognise any preference of one over another except on the basis of piety (Taqwa). In the Islamic State of Madinah, there was no discrimination on the basis of colour, class or descent. Allah’s Messenger made a treaty with the Jews but the Jews did not live up their pledge and later betrayed it.
When was Qiblah changed?
In the second year of Hijrah (the Month of Sha’ban) Qiblah (the Direction of Prayer) was changed by revelation from Bait al-Maqdis in Jerusalem to Al-Ka’bah in Mecca.
For the next few years Muhammad was entrusted to his grandfather, Abd al-Muttalib. When Muhammad was eight years old, his grandfather also passed away. His uncle Abu Talib, a well-respected member of the Quraysh tribe, took responsibility for him. Muhammad grew up to become an honest and trustworthy businessman. Indeed, Muhammad’s upright and dependable reputation earned him the designation al-Amin (the Trustworthy One) among his fellow Meccans, and even invited a marriage proposal from Khadijah, a businesswoman in Mecca for whom Muhammad worked.
At the age of twenty-five, Muhammad married Khadijah, a widow who was his elder by fifteen or three years. Their marriage lasted twenty-five years, until Khadijah’s death. Muhammad and Khadijah had seven children: two sons died in early childhood, and four daughters lived to bless their household.
While most of his fellow Meccans were polytheists, Muhammad refused to worship the traditional tribal deities and often retreated to meditate and worship the One God of his ancestor, Abraham. At the age of forty, while meditating in the cave of Hira on the mountain above Mecca, Muhammad received the first of many revelations, beginning with the Arabic word Iqra, meaning “Read”, “Recite” and “Summon.” Soon afterwards, he was commanded to convey the Divine message and thus became the last messenger of God, according to the Qur’an.
“Read, in the name of thy Lord, Who created man, out of a clot (embryo). Proclaim! And thy Lord is Most Bountiful, He Who taught the use of the pen Taught man that which he knew not.” (‘Alaq 96: 1-5)
Muhammad spent the remaining twenty-three years of his life receiving revelations from God and advocating the message of Islam among the peoples of the Arabian peninsula and working to implement the principles and teachings of Islam in human society. After suffering severe persecution from the polytheistic Meccans for 11 years, he and his fellow Muslims emigrated to Yathrib, a city 200 miles north of Mecca, where he established Islamic rule. The city was renamed Madinah (short for Madinat an-Nabi, City of the Prophet). In the following years, the message of Islam brought more and more tribes in the Arabian peninsula into the fold, creating a new community based on common religious principles, rather than tribal or other affiliations. Muhammad died in 632 C.E. at the age of 63. His tomb is located adjacent to the Masjid an-Nabawi (Prophet’s Masjid) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, in what used to be his quarters next to the original masjid of the city.
Muhammad is our great and beloved prophet. It is through Muhammad (pbuh) that Allah has completed the Islamic way of life.
No other person in the history of mankind has left so deep an impact on the life of his followers as Muhammad (pbuh). He is the last Messenger of Allah, his life is the best example for us to follow. He has shown us, how to obey Allah, the Lord of the Universe. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Say (O, Muhammad) if you love Allah, follow me, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Al-i Imran 3: 31)
What was Muhammad’s role as the last prophet?
Islam teaches that Muhammad’s role as the final prophet of God was to confirm the authentic teachings of previous prophets and to rectify mistakes or innovations that followers of previous monotheistic faith traditions had introduced into the original religion of humankind. Muhammad is also viewed as the last ring for the completion of God’s guidance to humanity; the scope of his mission is seen as encompassing all people, rather than a specific region, group or community. Furthermore, his life serves as a perfect model of how to practice Islam fully.
“We have sent you forth to all humankind, so that you may give them good news and warn them.” (Saba’ 34: 28)
Muslims believe that the original revelations or scriptures given by God to prophets such as Abraham, Moses, David, and Jesus had been lost or modified over time. Moreover, the ethno-religious concept of a “chosen people” found in Judaism and the doctrines of Trinity and Original Sin found in Christianity are believed to be later developments that grew away from the original practices and scriptures of previous prophets.
Essentially, Muslims view Islam not as a “new” religion, since it embodies the same message and guidance that God revealed to all His messengers, but rather a reestablishment of the “primordial” religion of humankind, centered around recognizing God’s Oneness and adhering to His commands. The view of Islam as having achieved its final form through the scripture given to Muhammad and his own teachings is an important aspect of faith. Consequently, Muhammad is considered the final messenger of God, the “Seal” of the Prophets. Any claimants to prophethood after Muhammad, ., are not accepted by Muslims.
Is the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) the last and the final Prophet of Allah?
Yes, he is the last and the final prophet of Allah. There will be no prophet after him. So God called him “The seal of the Prophets.” This case is similar to an envelope. If you cover an envelope and seal it, nobody can uncover it. As such prophet Muhammad sealed the chain of the prophets and nobody can claim to be prophet.
“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Apostle of God, and the Seal of the Prophets....” (Ahzab 33: 40)
Qur’an says:
“We sent you (Muhammad) not but as a blessing for the Universe.” (Anbiya 21: 107)
What is the difference between Muhammad and other human-beings?
The difference between Muhammad (pbuh) and us is that he received guidance directly from Allah through revelation but we did not.
Muhammad (pbuh) was not only a messenger but a man as well. He was not a super human-being but a mortal man and the last of the Messengers of Allah. (Kahf 18: 110)
When did the Prophet accompany his uncle on a business trip to Syria?
Muhammad was growing up in the affectionate care of his uncle, Abu Talib. At the age of twelve Muhammad accompanied him on a business-trip to Syria. When their caravan reached Busra, in Syria, a Christian priest called Bahira invited them to a dinner. This was unusual. Abu Talib and his caravan had passed this way before several times but they were never asked in before by priest.
Why did Bahira (a Christian priest) invite all the members of the caravan to a dinner and why did Bahira insist on having Muhammad join in the dinner?
All the members of the caravan went to the dinner, except Muhammad who stayed behind, probably to look after the camels and the merchandise. Bahira insisted on having Muhammad join in the dinner. When Muhammad did, Bahira asked him a few questions and Muhammad answered them precisely.
When he heard the answers, Bahira (a person well versed in Christianity and the Bible) could recognize from his reading that the boy Muhammad was going to be a prophet in the future.
He advised Abu Talib to take special care of his nephew. When they finished their trading Abu Talib lost no time in returning to Mecca with Muhammad.
What is the significance of Alliance for Charity (Hilf al-Fudul)?
When Muhammad was fifteen a local war broke out during the Hajj season between the tribes of Quraish and Hawazin. According to Meccan tradition war was forbidden in the pilgrimage season. Despite this, the war lasted four years with intervals.
The reason for the war seemed silly to Muhammad and he felt quite disgusted at the nonsense bloodshed. He inspired many of them to take steps to stop the war and make peace.
Hilf al-Fudul organisation was formed to help the oppressed, the poor and the needy. Muhammad was present at the meeting. The participation of Muhammad in Hilf al-Fudul is a proof of his concern and interest in the welfare activities, even in his youth.
Why did Allah send his prophets mostly from shepherds?
Muhammad (pbuh) was very proud of having spent his boyhood as a shepherd. He used to say, “Allah sent no prophet who was not a shepherd. Moses was a shepherd, David was also a shepherd.”
The reason for this might be that Allah wanted His messengers to have experience of life as a shepherd to help deal with human-beings, with rare patience, in preaching Allah’s Message. It is very difficult to control a flock of sheep, goats, camels which do not have any understanding or sense of right and wrong. It needs a lot of patience and care to handle animals. The experience was eventually very useful for the messengers in their task of propagating and transmitting the Message of Allah.
What are the physical features of the prophet Muhammad?
Muhammad was a handsome man of medium build neither very tall nor short. He had a large head, very black thick hair, a wide forehead, heavy eye brows and large dark eyes with long eye lashes.
He had a fine nose, well placed teeth, thick beard, a long handsome neck and a wide chest and shoulders. His skin was light coloured and he had thick palms and feet.
He walked steadily with firm steps. His appearance had the mark of deep thought and contemplation. His eyes gave the feeling of the authority of a commander.
When did Muhammad marry to Khadijah?
As Muhammad grew up, he helped in running the business of his uncle who was managing his family with some difficulty. During this time, Muhammad received an offer from a noble lady named Khadijah to look after her business affairs. Muhammad’s fame as an honest and upright young man had now become well known in Mecca. That is why Khadijah made the proposal.
Muhammad accepted the proposal and set out for Syria with the goods of Khadijah. Accompanied by another of her employes called Maysarah, Muhammad’s made second business trip to Syria. Muhammad made big profits for Khadijah on this trip because of his intelligence, skill and honesty. It was almost double what anyone else had earned for Khadijah in the past.
On their return, Maysarah hurried to Khadijah and told her about his experience of Muhammad and about the big profits he made for her. Khadijah, the daughter of Khuwailid, was a determined, intelligent and noble woman. She was deeply impressed by the ability, character and performance of Muhammad (pbuh).
Khadijah decided to send a proposal of marriage to Muhammad (pbuh). On the advice of his uncle Abu Talib. Muhammad consented to the proposal and the wedding ceremony went ahead. Now Muhammad was a family man and the marriage marked the beginning of a new phase in his life.
When and where did the prophet Muhammad receive the revelation first?
The Meccans worshipped idols made by themselves. Muhammad used to think about the stupidity of idol worshipping. The idols could not move, talk or do anything. How could they respond to the request of human-beings?
Cave Hira where the prophet received revelation first
All these appeared nonsense to Muhammad’s thinking mind. The retreat in the Cave Hira was to find answers to these deep-rooted feelings on his own.
Muhammad had reached the age of forty. One night while he was in the Cave Hira in Ramadan the Angel appeared. After transmitting the first verses the Angel Jibrail said: “O Muhammad! You are the Messenger of Allah and I am Jibrail and wherever he looked, Muhammad saw Jibrail flying in the distance. He stood still until the Angel disappeared.
Which verses of Qur’an the Prophet received first?
These verses are:
“Read (and summon) in the name of your Lord who created you.
Created man from a clot of blood.
Read: Your Lord is most Generous.
Who taught by the pen.
Taught man what he did not know.” (Alaq 96: 1-5)
How did Khadijah comfort her husband when he had returned home in panic?
When the Angel hugged the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) again much harder for the third time and then released him the first verses of Qur’an. Muhammad (pbuh) recited these verses and felt as though the words were written on his heart.
Then the Angel disappeared and Muhammad (pbuh) rushed home in a panic and sat close to Khadijah. He told her all that happened. Khadijah, his noble, loving and caring wife had faith in the character of her husband and comforted him saying: “Rejoice, O son of my uncle and be of good heart. I have hope that you will be the Prophet of his people. You have never done any wrong to anyone. You are kind to others and you help the poor. So, Allah will not let you down.”
Who was Waraqah bin Nawfal?
Waraqah bin Nawfal was a Christian and had knowledge of the scriptures of the Torah and the Gospel.
When Muhammad (pbuh) rushed home in a panic, he asked Khadijah to wrap him up with blankets. He was wrapped up and he fell asleep. And when Muhammad woke up, Khadijah took him to her cousin Waraqah bin Nawfal.
Waraqah heard all that happened from Muhammad and said: “This is the same one who keeps the secrets (Angle Gabriel) whom Allah had sent to Moses. I wish I were young and could live up to the time when your people would turn you out.”
Who were the first Muslims?
First; Khadijah, Muhammad’s wife accepted Islam, she encouraged and assured Muhammad (pbuh) about the success of his prophethood and declared her own acceptance of Islam. She thus became the first Muslim.
Second; Ali bin Abu Talib, Muhammad’s cousin.
Third; Zaid bin Harithah, his household-servant outside the household.
Forth; Abu Bakr was the first among Muhammad’s friends to become a Muslim.
How did Muhammad (pbuh) call the Meccans to the Message of Allah?
He climbed on the top of As-Safa and shouted at the people who saw him standing there, gathered below. Muhammad (pbuh) told them: “O men of Quraish! If I were to tell you that I see an army ready to attack on the otherside of the mountain, would you believe me? They answered, “Yes, why not? We trust you and never found you telling a lie.” Muhammad said: “Know, then, that I am a warner and that I warn you of severe punishment. Allah has commanded me to warn you, my nearest kinsmen that I can assure you of good on this Earth and in Heaven, if you declare that “there is no god but Allah.”
Abu Lahab his uncle, became red with anger and spoke bad of his nephew. He said “Damn you! Did you assemble us for this?
Allah revealed:
“May the hands of Abu Lahab perish, doomed he is, his wealth and his properties shall not save him, he shall be thrown into a flaming fire of Hell.” (Tabbat 111: 3)
What were the proposals of Utbah bin Rabiah to the prophet Muhammad?
Utbah bin Rabiah was the leader of the Quraish and put some proposals to the prophet Muhammad. He suggested “If what you want is money, we will gather for you our property, so that you can be the richest of us. If you want honour, we will make you our chief, so that no-one can decide anything apart from you, if you want sovereignty, we will make you king.”
The prophet refused all these suggestions saying:
“O, my uncle and Quraish! By Allah if they put the Sun in my right hand and the Moon in my left, and ask me to give up my mission, I shall not do it until Allah has made it victorious or I perish there in.” And Abu Talib was moved by the firmness of his nephew and said, “Go and say what you please, for by Allah I shall never withdraw my support from you.”
Who were the first Muslims to suffer at the hands of the unbelievers of Mecca?
The first Muslims to suffer of the unbelievers of Mecca were Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas, Bilal bin Rabah and Ammar bin Yathir.
From the women Muslims: Sumaiyyah, Lubainah, Nahdiyyah and Umm Ubais.
For example; Bilal, an Abyssinian’s slave, was tortured by his master as he embraced Islam. He was thrown onto the sand under the burning sun with a heavy stone laid on his chest for no other reason than his acceptance of Islam. Bilal gallantly faced his torture and used to proclaim: “Allah the ONE, Allah the ONE.” Abu Bakr set him free from his infidel master.
Second example; Once Muhammad (pbuh) was almost strangled by an unbeliever while praying suddenly Abu Bakr arrived to rescue him.
Abu Lahab’s wife, Umm Jamil, used to throw rubbish and thorny bushes from her house at Muhammad’s (pbuh) door and way and all that Muhammad (pbuh) was able to do was to remove them.
Muhammad (pbuh) continued his preaching with even more enthusiasm and firmness and the hostility of the unbelievers also intensified.
The Meccans did all they could to stop him and his followers. But nothing worked. Islamic continued to flourish among the Meccans despite the false propaganda.
During these sufferings Hamzah, the young uncle of the Prophet accepted Islam. His acceptance of the faith added strength to Islam. For Hamzah was a brave man. His acceptance of Islam compelled the Quraish to abandon some of their harassment.
Allah commanded the Prophet to tell the unbelievers in clear terms that there could be no such compromise on matters of basic principles. Muhammad (pbuh) was asked to declare them:
“You have your religion and I have mine.” (Kafirun 109: 6)
Where did the Muslims emigrate to first?
Eighty three Muslims, excluding children, emigrated to Abyssinia in groups. It was the first emigration of the Muslims who had to leave their country for the sake of Allah. The first group was of ten people. Abyssinia (Ethiopia) was being ruled by Najjashi (Negus) at that time.
What is the meaning of Boycott?
The Quraish were seething at the gradual increase in the strength of the Muslims. They plotted another assault and decided on a total Boycott of the family of Hashim and Muttalib. The clans of Hashim and Muttalib demonstrated great firmness during the Boycott. The document of Boycott which was kept in the Ka’bah was eaten up by white ants, all except the name of Allah.
The Boycott continued for three years.
Why the Prophet had a very difficult day in Ta’if?
When prophet Muhammad (accompanied by Zaid bin Harithah) went to three important people of Ta’if, a City sixty miles to the west of Mecca, and invited them to Islam, All three refused and insulted him.
Then, the urchins threw stones at the Prophet’s legs and feet. The prophet used to say that the Day in Ta’if was the most difficult day of his life.
What is Al-Isra?
After the severe shocks of the death of Abu Talib and Khadijah and the cruel treatment received at Ta’if, Muhammad longed for some comfort. It was not long before he got it. It happened in the form of a remarkable and eventful Nocturnal Journey to Jerusalem called Al-Isra. There is also a Surah in the Qur’an by this name, and the first verse of the Surah signifies it.
Al-Aqabah in Mecca
When and where was the first Covenant of Al-Aqabah performed?
When Muhammad (pbuh) opened public preaching, he met a group of people from Madinah (then called Yathrib) at the time of Hajj and he invited them to accept Islam. They responded to his call and became Muslims. There were six of them. They returned to Madinah as believers and invited the rest of their tribes to join the new faith.
Next year twelve people from Madinah came during Hajj and the Prophet entered into an agreement with them at a place called Al-Aqabah in 621 CE. This agreement is known as the Covenant of Al-Aqabah.
In this pledge they agreed;
a) To obey none but Allah,
b) Neither to steal nor commit adultery,
c) Neither to kill their children nor commit any evil and not to disobey Allah.
They were told by Muhammad that if they lived under this covenant, Allah would be pleased with them and reward them with Paradise.
When and where did the second-covenant of Al-Aqabah take place?
A second covenant with the Muslims of Madinah was concluded in 622 CE in the same place, Al-Aqabah. In all, seventy-three people including two women took part in this pledge.
They are;
a) This covenant was an extension of the first.
b) It was agreed that the Muslims of Madinah would protect and help the Prophet against all enemies.
c) As they would protect their own women and children.
d) All dangers which would arise out of this covenant were ex-plained by Al-Abbas (Prophet’s uncle) to the Madinite Muslims in clear terms.
But still the Madinite Muslims said “we take him (the Prophet) despite all threats to property, wealth and life. Tell us O Prophet of Allah ! What will be our reward, if we remain true to this oath?”
The Prophet answered “Paradise.” They stretched out their hands to him and he to them, and in this way the covenant was concluded.
The second covenant included clauses about war situations which made it a duty for the Madinite Muslims to defend the Prophet in the event of external attack from Mecca.
With this aggreement Muslims had a place to take shelter, an ally in time of war and danger.
Why did the Prophet (pbuh) change his working strategy after the second Covenant of Al-Aqabah?
Because, for thirteen years, he had tried his best to preach the message of Allah to the people of Mecca. But the Meccan soil was not fertile for this.
Madinah provided him with fresh, receptive ground where he saw the seed of Islam and decided to use evaluate this opportunity.
Why did Muhammad (pbuh) command the Muslims of Mecca to start emigrating to Madinah?
In order to strengthen the bond with the Muslims there the Meccan Muslims started moving to Madinah, individually and in small groups.
The Unbelievers tried ferociously to stop this and became even more malicious.
God praising the believers said in the Qur’an as to emigration:
“Those who believed and those who suffered exile and fought (and strove and struggled) in the Path of Allah, They have the hope of the Mercy of Allah and Allah is oft-forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Baqara 2: 218)
“And say “Truth has (now) arrived and falsehood perished: for falsehood is (by its nature) bound to perish.” (Isra 17: 81)
The Hijrah: Initial steps of forming a new way of life and civilization
“Those who have left their homes and were driven out there from and suffered harm in My cause and fought and were slain. Verily, I will blot out from them their iniquities and admit them into Gardens, with rivers flowing beneath... “ (Âl-i Imrân 3: 195)
“He who forsakes his home in the Cause of Allah. Finds in the Earth many a refuge... For Allah and His Messenger, His reward becomes due and sure with Allah and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful.” (Nisâ 4: 100)
What is the Hijrah (Emigration)?
When the life became very difficult for Muslims in Madine, Muslims were obliged to leave their homes and lands for Makka for the sake of Allah and His Pleasure!
What are the meaning of Ansar (The Helpers) and Muhajirun (The Immigrants)?
a)The Muslims of Madinah are known as Ansar (Helpers).
b)And those of Mecca who emigrated from Mecca to Madinah are known as Muhajirun (Emigrants) in Islamic history.
Why was the Prophet (pbuh) waiting in Mecca with Abu-Bakr and Ali?
He was waiting for permission from Allah to emigrate himself. Abu Bakr, his closest friend stayed behind on the Prophet’s advice. Ali, the cousin of the Prophet, also, stayed behind. Abu Bakr was to accompany the Prophet.
When did the Prophet (pbuh) emigrate to Madinah?
The Unbelievers potted to kill Muhammad (pbuh). The permission to migrate to Madinah also had come.
Muhammad secretly left Mecca at night in 622 CE with Abu Bakr. A specially formed group of unbelievers laid in wait at night around the Prophet’s house to kill him as he came out. Ali was left behind to sleep in the Prophet’s bed and the Prophet quitely left. In the morning they found Ali in the Prophet’s bed and were dumb-founded.
The Unbelievers fooled by the wit of the Prophet now organized a through search on the road to Madinah and offered a prize of 100 camels for the capture of Muhammad. Suraqah was almost successful but failed in the end. His horse fell down three times in his pursuit to kill Muhammad and in the end he gave up his sinister aim, taking the falls as bad Omens then he accepted Islam and became a Muslim.
How many days did they stay in the Cave Thawr?
The Prophet and his companion Abu Bakr had left just before dawn and proceeded to the Cave Thawr, to the south of Mecca. They stayed in the Cave for three days where Abu-Bakr’s servant brought them food in the evenings. They left the Cave on the third day and started for Madinah.
The Cave-Thawr
Where is Quba?
It is a place near Madinah. The prophet spent a few days there before proceeding to Madina. In Quba the Prophet waited for Ali who endangered his life for him. After fulfilling the mission assigned to him, Ali joined the Holy Prophet in Quba. Thus together they started towards Madina.
After a tiresome, exhausting and very difficult journey, the Prophet accompanied by Abu Bakr reached Quba. They stayed there for two weeks and the Prophet founded a Mosque in Quba.
The Quba Mosque which was founded by the Prophet is the first one to be built.
How did the Prophet enter Madinah?
The Prophet got on his camel and entered Madinah. The People of Madinah who had anxiously waited the arrival of Muhammad became very happy and excited when they found him among them.
They gave him a hero’s welcome. Then the Prophet (pbuh) allowed his camel to kneel where it liked. It knelt first in a place which was owned by two orphans and got up to kneel finally in front of the house of Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari which became the first residence of the Prophet in Madinah.
Why the Hijrah of the Prophet is a new chapter in the history of Islam?
Hijrah has two sides ;
a) The sad and heart-breaking scene of leaving the beloved birth place. On the one hand a feeling of security and hope for the work of Islam more freely than before.
b) On the other, the Islamic Calendar started from the day of the Hijrah of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from Mecca to Madinah. Hijrah was the beginning of the new role for the Prophet as a Statesman and a Ruler. Thus his fifty three years of life in Mecca of which he spent thirteen eventful years as the Prophet of Allah ended.
End of Meccan Period
What is the meaning of Madinat an-Nabi?
Madinah was known at that time as Yathrib, it came to be known as Madinat an-Nabi, the Prophet’s city-after Muhammad’s (pbuh) arrival. Later it became known simply as Madinah-Al-Munawwarah (The Illuminated / Enlightened City)
Where is Masjid an-Nabi?
It is in Madinah al-Munawwarah. The Prophet then decided to construct a Mosque in Madinah. Soon, work began at a place which was purchased from it’s Orphan owners.
This was the place where the Prophet’s Camel (Quswa) had first knelt before it finally knelt in front of the house of Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari.
The Prophet’s residence was built next to the Mosque. Muhammad himself took part in the construction as an ordinary labourer.
The Masjid an-Nabi
Muhammad (pbuh) never hesitated to do any ordinary work, he used to mend his own clothes, repair his own shoes, do the shopping etc. In this respect he left for us a shining example.
How the prophet created Islamic brotherhood in Madinah?
The prophet’s first task was to form a solid bond of Faith and brotherhood between the Ansar and the Muhajirun.
He called a meeting of both communities and asked the Ansars to become brothers of the Muhajirun. He also suggested that they should share their property and other belongings with their migrant brothers.
After having settled in Madina and building a mosque which was indeed the military and constitutional base of muslims, the Prophet of Islam took the excellent initiative. He laid the foundation of Islamic brotherhood, so that great unity and sincerity could be created in Muslim society and so the emigrant Muslims would know that though they had lost a number of their friends and relatives and had been forced to leave their homeland, in return, they had gained brothers who were much more loyal and sympathetic from every point of view.
The Ansar did what they were asked by the Prophet. This was a rare event unmatched in human history, such was the powerful influence of Islam.
How many communities were there in Madinah?
The City had these communities:
a) The Ansar (the Helpers) of the tribes of Aws and Khazraj,
b) The Jews from the tribes of Qainuqa, Nadir and Quraizah,
c) The migrants from Mecca,
d) Christian people most of whom were slaves, not learned ones.
e) Other religious groups: Maniheists and Mazdaists.
When did Madinah become the capital of the Islamic Community?
When Muhammad became the leader of the city with the cementing of the bond of brotherhood, he had virtually inaugurated the Islamic Society. Madinah then became the capital of Islamic Community, the first Islamic City State.
The Islamic State of Madinah knew no distinction between the ruler and his subjects. Every citizen belonged to Allah and enjoyed equal rights. Islam doesn’t recognise any preference of one over another except on the basis of piety (Taqwa). In the Islamic State of Madinah, there was no discrimination on the basis of colour, class or descent. Allah’s Messenger made a treaty with the Jews but the Jews did not live up their pledge and later betrayed it.
When was Qiblah changed?
In the second year of Hijrah (the Month of Sha’ban) Qiblah (the Direction of Prayer) was changed by revelation from Bait al-Maqdis in Jerusalem to Al-Ka’bah in Mecca.
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