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The Benefits of Performing Prayers (Part 3)

The Benefits of Performing Prayers (Part 1)
The Benefits of Performing Prayers (Part 2)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “I have considered having a man lead people in prayer and going myself to those who hang back from attending the prayer in congregation to burn their houses down upon them.” (Reported by Bukhari and Muslim)

Behold, this threat cannot be issued unless there is something obligatory left. It was related that once, a blind man came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and said, “O Messenger of Allah, I have nobody to lead me to the mosque.” Then he asked for permission to pray at home. Thereby, the Prophet (peace be upon him) permitted him. But before leaving, the Prophet (peace be upon him) called him and said, “Do you hear the Call

The Benefits Of Performing Prayers (Part 2)

The Benefits of Performing Prayers (Part 1)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Allah does not look to a man who does not raise his back upright and prostrate.” (Reported by Ahmed)

“This is the prayer of a hypocrite who watches the sun until he finds it about to set, then he stands and performs it as quickly as a bird picking the seeds, and he hardly remembers Allah in it.” (Reported by Muslim)

Abdullah AI-Ash’ari related: One day the Prophet (peace be upon him) led the companions in the prayer. After finishing the prayer, someone came in to pray. He started to pray so fast that he could hardly remain

The Benefits of Performing Prayers (Part 1)

The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever keeps on performing the prescribed Prayer, Allah will grant him five honorable rewards: he will lead a happy life, avoid the torment in the grave, receive his record by his right hand, cross Sirat (the bridge on Fire) as swiftly as lightning, and enter Paradise without being reckoned. But who is remiss in performing the Prayer, Allah will make him suffer fifteen kinds of punishment, five in this world, three when dying, three in the grave, and three when being resurrected. The worldly punishments are: he loses the glamor (the blessing) of his life span, the righteous appearance diminishes from his face, he works in vain, he will not have his supplications answered, and he will not make use of the righteous people’s supplications. When dying, he dies humiliated, hungry, thirsty, even if he drinks all the rivers of the world. In the grave, he will be compressed so tightly that his ribs permute, blazing in fire day and night, and will face a bald-headed, poisonous male serpent with two black spots over its eyes, which are created of Fire and the fingernails of iron; each fingernail is equal to the distance covered in a day. It will address the deceased in a very roaring sound like thunder, saying, “I am the baldheaded poisonous male serpent. My Lord commanded me to beat you for missing the Fajr Prayer until sunrise, the Dhuhr until Asr, Asr Prayer until Maghrib, Maghrib Prayer until ‘Isha’, and Isha until Fajr.”

Benefits Of Dates In Ramadan

All the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) kindness to his nation is shown in dates and in recommending them as he explained the useful things even in such matters.

The benefits and utilities of dates are shown as some doctors mentioned the benefits of Iftar on Dates and said: starting Iftar with dates has a lot of healthy and nutritional benefits, some of these benefits are:

  • Dates are easy to digest, so they don’t exhaust the fasting person’s stomach.
  • Dates decrease the great hunger feeling of the fasting person, and so he doesn’t rush into excessive food eating, which causes digestive disorders.
  • Dates prepare the stomach to receive food after being inactive throughout the day by activating the release of digestive secretions and juices.
  • Dates are rich in sugary energy, supplying the body with the most important nutrients, including sugar, which is irreplaceable as a nutrient for brain cells and nerves.
  • Dates protect the fasting person from having constipation as a result of changing meal times or as a result of having low fiber amounts in meals.
  • The alkaline salts in dates adjust the acidity of blood, which results from excessive eating of meat and carbohydrates, which causes a lot of hereditary diseases as diabetes, gout, renal stones, gall bladder inflammations, high blood pressure, and hemorrhoids.

The Messenger (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: “The best Suhoor for the believer is dates.” [Abu Dawood, Al-Baihaqee, and Ibn Hibbaan]

Rasool Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to incite the breaking of the fast with dates, and if he did not find any, he would then break it with water.

Anas Ibn Maalik (Radi Allahu anhu) said: “The Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to break his fast with fresh dates before he prayed. If he did not find fresh dates, then he would use dried dates. If he did not find that, he also drank a few sips of water. [Ahmad and Abu Dawood]

Umm Safoora

Health Benefits Of Honey

Honey is a sweet treat. In fact, it is man’s oldest sweetener. It can be a good substitute for sugar in our drinks and food. But it is also good for many other things and treating many other conditions. Reliance on commercialized medicines that contain too many chemicals can become hazardous to our health. Alhamdulillah, Allah has given us the knowledge that Mother Nature can at least help ease the pain we are suffering from.

Honey comprises sugars like glucose and fructose and minerals like magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium chlorine, sulfur, iron, and phosphate. It contains vitamins B1, B2, C, B6, B5, and B3, all of which change according to the qualities of the nectar and pollen. Besides the above, copper, iodine, and zinc exist in it in small quantities. Several kinds of hormones are also present in it.

Approximately one-half of the human diet is derived directly or indirectly from crops pollinated by bees. Today, honeybees are an essential part of a healthy agriculture economy. If you have allergies, honey can be beneficial. If you eat honey that is local to your area, it may prevent your seasonal allergies. Bees use the pollen from local plants, and eventually, it ends up in your honey.

Honey may also be good for your skin. It can attract water. You can use honey instead of alpha hydroxy masks because of its high content of the acid. It is also safe for sensitive skin.

You can also use it as a moisturizing mask for your skin as well as your hair. To use it as a conditioner, mix the honey with olive oil. Be sure to wash your hair thoroughly before you go outside.

If you have a sore throat, take some honey. Due to its natural anti-inflammatory effect, it will help to heal wounds more quickly. It also has different phytochemicals–chemicals found in plants and different foods–that kill viruses, bacteria, and fungus, making it a good substitute for wound dressings. The taste may also take your mind off the pain.

There is evidence that honey diluted in water will help with your stomachaches and dehydration.

Health In Islam: Germ-Fighting Properties Germ-Fighting Properties
Do you have a cut? Honey is a natural antiseptic. Medical journals cite more than 600 cases in which honey was employed to treat wounds. By applying honey to your wounds, you prevent infections. Honey contains antimicrobial agents, which prevent infections by killing the bacteria in and around your wounds. When using honey, it may help to heat it before putting it on your wound (caution test the heat before you place it on the wound). Many types of bacteria can’t survive in honey, so wounds heal, swelling eases, and tissue can grow back.

Honey may also be effective in the treatment of your ulcers. In Europe, honey has been used internally to help cure ulcers, particularly stomach ulcers.

Burns, too, heal better with honey, studies show. The advantage of honey is that it not only prevents infections from occurring, it accelerates skin healing. Since the sugar in honey absorbs water, it helps to trap some of the moisture so that the bacteria and other microbes can’t grow as easily as in other food.

Honey: How Does It Help In Healing Wounds? How Does It Help In Healing Wounds?
When honey comes into contact with body moisture, the glucose oxidase enzyme introduced to the honey by the bee slowly releases the antiseptic hydrogen peroxide at a sufficient level to be effective against bacteria but not tissue damage. Not only is honey antibacterial, but it also draws body fluids and nutrients to the area and so assists cell growth, and prevents a scar from forming by drying out the wound.

The osmotic action of the honey draws out and provides a film of liquid between the tissues and the dressing, allowing the dressing to be removed painlessly, without tearing the re-growing cells. There are reports in medical journals of large bed sores, otherwise needing skin grafts, that have healed without scarring after honey treatment.
In treating diarrhea, honey promotes the rehydration of the body and more quickly clears up the diarrhea and any vomiting and stomach upsets. The antibacterial properties of honey, both the peroxide and non-peroxide, are effective in the laboratory against MRSA strains of bacteria which are notoriously resistant to antibiotics and are sometimes responsible for the closing of hospital wards.

Other Benefits of Honey
Easily digested: Because sugar molecules in honey can convert into other sugars (e.g. fructose to glucose), honey is easily digested by the most sensitive stomachs, despite its high acid content. It helps kidneys and intestines to function better.

Good source of antioxidants: It plays a big role in the prevention of cancer as well as heart disease.
Has a low-calorie level: Another quality of honey is that, when it is compared with the same amount of sugar, it gives 40% fewer calories to the body. Although it gives great energy to the body, it does not add weight.
Rapidly diffuses through the blood: When accompanied by mild water, honey diffuses into the bloodstream in 7 minutes. Its free sugar molecules make the brain function better since the brain is the largest consumer of sugar, thus, reducing fatigue.
Supports blood formation: Honey provides an important part of the energy needed by the body for blood formation. In addition, it helps in cleansing the blood. It has some positive effects in regulating and facilitating blood circulation. It also functions as a protection against capillary problems and arteriosclerosis.
Does not accommodate bacteria: This bactericide (bacteria-killing) property of honey is named “the inhibition effect”. Experiments conducted on honey show that its bactericide properties increase twofold when diluted with water. It is very interesting to note that newly born bees in the colony are nourished with diluted honey by the bees responsible for their supervision – as if they know this feature of the honey.
Royal Jelly: Royal jelly is a substance produced by worker bees inside the beehive. Inside this nutritious substance are sugar, proteins, fats, and many vitamins. It is used in problems caused by tissue deficiency or body frailty.

It is obvious that honey, which is produced in much higher amounts than the requirements of the bees, is made for the benefit of man. And it is also obvious that bees cannot perform such an unbelievable task “on their own.”

The Healing Of Honey

More than 1,400 years ago, Allah All-Mighty told us through His Messenger sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) that honey can heal a variety of medical problems. Honey is a remarkable viscous liquid, prepared by bees from nectars of various plants. It has occupied a prominent place in traditional medicine throughout history. The ancient Egyptians, Assyrians, Chinese, Greeks, and Romans employed honey for different diseases.

The Noble Quran and many Prophetic narrations refer to honey as a great healer of disease. Allah, Almighty, Says (what means): “And your Lord inspired the bee, saying: “Take you habitations in the mountains and in the trees and in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits, and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you).” There comes forth from their bellies, a drink of varying colors wherein is healing for men. Verily, in this is indeed a sign for people who think.” [Quran; 16: 68-69]

Abu Saeed Al-Khudri may Allah be pleased with him related that a man came to the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) and said: “My brother has some abdominal trouble.” The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said to him “Let him drink honey.” The man returned to the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) and said: “O Messenger of Allah! I let him drink honey, but it caused him more pain.” The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) said to him: “Go and let him drink honey!” The man went and let his brother drink honey, then returned and said: “O Messenger of Allah, it did not cause him except more pains.” The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) then said: “Allah has said the truth, but your brother’s abdomen has told a lie. Let him drink honey.” So he made him drink honey and he was cured. [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam (may Allah exalt his mention) also said: “Make use of the two remedies: honey and the Quran.” [At-Tirmithi, Ibn Maajah, and Al-Bayhaqi] Modern medicine is only just learning of this fact.

Benefits of honey:
1. Alleviates inflammation of the cornea if used locally on the eye.
2. An antibiotic if used locally in situations of wounds and burns, and it is used for healing of wounds:
§ In the case of wounds, honey absorbs moisture from the air, facilitates the healing process, and prevents scarring. This is because honey stimulates the growth of epithelial cells that form the new skin cover. In this way, honey may eliminate the need for tissue transplantation.
§ Honey stimulates the re-growth of tissue involved in the healing process. It stimulates the formation of new blood capillaries and the growth of fibroblasts that replace the connective tissue of the deeper layer of the skin and produce the collagen fibers that give strength to the repair.
§ Honey has an anti-inflammatory action, which reduces the swelling around a wound. This improves circulation and thus hastens the healing process.
§ Honey does not stick to the underlying wound tissues, so there is no tearing away of newly formed tissue, and no pain when dressings are changed.
§ Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, honey provides a protective barrier to prevent wounds from becoming infected. It also rapidly clears any existing infection from wounds. It is fully effective, even with antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.
§ Some studies showed that honey is a good treatment against the hospital infection bacteria “superbugs” (MRSA.)

3. As honey does not accommodate bacteria, this bactericide (bacteria-killing) property of honey is named “the inhibition effect.” There are various reasons for this anti-microbial property of the honey. Some examples are the high sugar content that limits the amount of water microorganisms need for growth, its high acidity (low pH), and its composition which deprives bacteria from nitrogen necessary for reproduction. The existence of hydrogen peroxide as well as antioxidants in the honey prevents bacteria growth.
4. Antioxidant: Those are the components in cells that get rid of harmful byproducts of normal metabolic functions. These elements inhibit destructive chemical reactions that cause spoilage of food and many chronic illnesses. Researchers believe food products rich in antioxidants may prevent heart problems and cancer. Strong antioxidants are present in honey: Pinocembrin, pinobaxin, chrisin, and galagin. Pinocembrin is an antioxidant that merely exists in the honey.
5. A treatment for gastric and duodenal ulcers, as honey decreases the secretion of hydrochloric acid to a normal rate, thus helping to heal such ulcers alleviate the related pains, and reduce resultant cases of vomiting and colic. For the treatment to be effective, honey should be taken dissolved in warm water one or two hours before meals.
6. A treatment for involuntary urination at beds. So, if the child is given one small spoon of honey before sleeping, this will have a positive effect, as honey is a sedative for the nervous system, thus helping the cyst to relax and expand during sleep.
7. It supports blood formation: Honey provides an important part of the energy needed by the body for blood formation. It helps in cleansing the blood. It has some positive effects in regulating and facilitating blood circulation. It also functions as a protection against capillary problems and arteriosclerosis.
8. A treatment for colds, flu, and pharyngitis.
9. A treatment for cases of chronic hepatitis, as honey increases the liver stock of glycogen material through the increase of blood glucose, thus helping the liver function properly and relieve it from more burdens.
10. A treatment for insomnia and a sedative for nerves, as it contains some sedative and tonic substances as sodium and potassium at a reasonable rate such.
11. A treatment for alcoholic poisoning. Fructose and vitamin B group in the honey help oxidize the alcohol remaining in the body.
12. A treatment for cough.
13. In cosmetics, a mixture of honey with lemon and glycerin is considered the best old medical prescription for the treatment of skin cracking and roughness, inflammation, and wounds of lips, sunstroke, and dermal pigments.
14. A treatment for muscular spasms of sportive exercises or facial spasms and eyelid muscles, which disappear after having one big spoon of honey for three days after each meal.
15. Has a low calorie level. When it is compared with the same amount of sugar, it gives 40% fewer calories to the body. Although it gives great energy to the body, it does not add weight. Furthermore, the use of honey is safe and has no allergic or side effects.
The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )was right in his prescription for the ailing man. When the fourth treatment of honey was given to the man, he got better. Such is part of the knowledge that the Almighty has revealed to His Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam may Allah exalt his mention).

The Medical Benefits of Taraweeh Prayer

Muslims derive therapeutic and spiritual benefits starting from the Wudu to the physical movements in the Salat – Takbir, Qiyam, Ruku, Sajda, Jalsa, and Tasleems. Muslims perform five daily contact prayers (Salat) and voluntary prayers (Sunnah, Nafl) throughout the year and Taraweeh prayers during the month of Ramadan. This results in moderate physical exercise, particularly to every muscle in the body. Some muscles contract isometrically (same length) and some contract in approximation or isotonically (same tension). The energy needed for the muscle during exercise is met by a process known as glycogenolysis. The rate of muscle metabolism increases during the performance of Salat, resulting in a relative deficiency of oxygen and muscle nutrients. In turn, this deficiency causes vasodilation – and an increase in the calibre of blood vessels – thereby allowing blood to flow easily back to the heart. The temporarily increased load on the heart acts to strengthen the heart muscle and improve the circulation within the heart muscle.

During the month of Ramadan, additional prayers are performed after salatul Ishaa, called Taraweeh prayers which vary from 8 Rakat (unit of prayer) to 20 Rakat with a few minutes break after every 4 Rakat for chanting and extolling the Majesty of Allah. After Iftar (breaking of fast) the blood glucose level continues to rise from the food ingested. Just before the Iftar meals, the blood glucose and insulin levels are at their lowest level. After an hour or so after the Iftar meal, the blood glucose begins to rise and also plasma insulin. The liver and the muscles take up the circulating glucose. The blood sugar reaches high levels in an hour or two and the benefits of Taraweeh prayers come into effect. The circulating glucose is metabolised into carbon dioxide and water during the Taraweeh prayers.

Hence the Taraweeh prayers help in expending the extra calories and improve flexibility, and coordination, reduce stress-related autonomic responses in healthy persons, and relieve anxiety and depression.

Physical and Emotional Well-Being
The gentle exercises performed in Taraweeh prayers improve physical fitness, and emotional well-being and increase the longevity of the Namazi (one who performs the Salat or Namaz). When a little extra effort is made, as in performing the Taraweeh prayers, there will be a betterment in endurance, stamina, in flexibility and strength. It was noted that the five daily prayers (Salat) produce the same physiological changes without any undesirable side effects as those produced by jogging or walking at about three miles per hour. Recent research studies performed on 17,000 Harvard alumni who entered college between 1916-and 1950 give strong evidence that only moderate aerobic exercise, equivalent to jogging about 3 miles a day, promotes good health and may actually add years to life. Men who expended about 2000 kcal of energy on a weekly basis (equal to a daily 30-minute walk, run, cycle, swim, etc.,) had one-quarter to one-third lower death rates than classmates who did little or no exercise. In addition to the health-boosting qualities of the Salat, the Namazi will be trained to be ever ready for any unexpected physical exertion such as the sudden lifting of children, chairs, or catching a public transportation vehicle. The elderly will accomplish this more securely and efficiently. Hence this is an advantage for the elderly to maintain their physical fitness for a longer period of time. It has been observed that those who fast and perform the Taraweeh prayers report feeling much convalescing and robust.

The Elderly
As human beings grow older, their physiological activity diminishes, as a result, their bones become thinner and if not taken care of will suffer from osteoporosis (which causes the fractures of the bones when they fall in the elderly due to a loss of bone mineral content and consequent sponginess of the bones. The bone then becomes structurally unstable, brittle and susceptible to fractures). Primary osteoporosis is most common among postmenopausal (due to reduction in oestrogen) women or those who have undergone bilateral oophorectomy (both the ovaries removed).

Women are six times more likely than men to develop Type I osteoporosis. The three major prevention strategies of osteoporosis are a high dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise and oestrogen replacement in postmenopausal women. The skin also becomes fragile and crinkled. The repair processes of the body become slower and immune responses are decreased. In the elderly, their physical activity is reduced as a result they have lower levels of Insulin Growth Factor 1. Reserve functions of all vital organs decrease and the elderly are more susceptible to mishaps and ailments. Because of repeated and regular movements of the body during Salat muscle strength, tendon power, joint flexibility and cardiovascular reserve are improved. Hence Salat and Taraweeh prayers enable the elderly to enrich the quality of life and to meet with unforeseen difficulties such as falls that could injure their bodies. Therefore Taraweeh prayers will improve their endurance, self-respect and self-confidence in being self-reliant.

Adrenaline is secreted even by minor activity. The secretion outlasts the incitement.

Even after the Taraweeh prayers are over the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline are manifest. (Adrenaline also called epinephrine is produced by the adrenal glands. The middle part of these glands, the adrenal medulla, secretes the hormone, which is chemically almost identical to the transmitter substance noradrenaline produced at the ends of sympathetic nerves. Adrenaline secretion into the bloodstream during stress causes acceleration of the heart, constriction of arterioles, and dilation of the pupils. In addition, adrenaline produces a marked increase in metabolic rate thus preparing the body for an emergency.) Even the thought of the intention of performing the Taraweeh prayers is sufficient to activate the sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system (thoracolumbar nervous system) is one of the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system, which supplies motor nerves to the smooth muscles of internal organs and to the heart muscle. Sympathetic nerve fibres arise via spinal nerves in the thoracic and lumbar regions. Their endings release mainly adrenaline, which increases heart rate and breathing rate, raises blood pressure and slows digestive processes, thereby preparing the body for “fight or flight” and antagonising the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. The adrenaline would redistribute the blood in the body to the active muscles, would mobilise liver glycogen if necessary in order to provide glucose for the active tissues, would diminish fatigue in skeletal muscles and would facilitate alveolar ventilation relax the bronchiolar muscle, and would initiate cardiovascular changes. Exercise induces a more effective functioning of beta-adrenoreceptors located on cell membranes.

Beneficial effects of Gentle Exercise
The Taraweeh prayer is considered to be a gentle exercise. The beneficial effects of gentle exercise on the body are many which are elaborated on here.

Effects on Skeletal Muscle
Once muscles atrophy in spite of the availability of ample proteins. During the Salat and Taraweeh, every muscle in the body contracts ironically and others isometrically. This gentle exercise also enhances endurance and diminishes tiredness. It helps the incapacitated to make the most of their remnant capabilities. The blood flow in strung muscles is low. During the prayers, the blood flow is greatly increased to the muscles. Blood flow sometimes increases even before the start of Taraweeh prayers, with just the thought of performing the Taraweeh prayers. In addition to needing fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, the human body requires minerals such as Potassium for nerve and muscle activity. It is found in fruits, meats, seafood and milk. Potassium deficiency leads to muscular and neurologic disorders. Potassium is also important in the transmission of nerve impulses and is a major positive ion in intracellular fluids. Potassium is involved in cellular enzyme activities, and it helps regulate the chemical reactions by which carbohydrates are converted to energy and amino acids are converted to protein. Also, Potassium ions cause vasodilation of arterioles. During the Taraweeh prayers, systolic Blood pressure may rise (the larger number in B.P.) a little and the diastolic Blood Pressure(the lower number in B.P.) may remain unchanged or even fall. However after the Taraweeh prayers are over, the B.P. may drop to just below normal levels which is a welcome sign. Taraweeh prayers improve respiratory efficiency; circulation in the capillaries surrounding the alveoli, or air sacs, is increased, and this brings about enhanced gas exchange and deeper breathing. The increase in the maximal consumption of oxygen is what makes the Namazi feel better. Those who perform the Taraweeh prayers, apart from the prescribed Salat, are more alert and active than those who do not perform the

Taraweeh prayers, even after the age of retirement. Taraweeh prayers improve physical strength and joint stability and reduce the risk of injury to the tendons and connective tissues. After age 40, the bone mineral density falls with age. Taraweeh prayers increase bone mineral density in both menopausal and elderly women and prevent osteoporosis and maintain normalcy in bone structures. Osteoporosis results in hip fractures in women after menopause and in elderly men. The risk of osteoporosis is substantially reduced by regular Salat and Taraweeh prayers. The prayers improve lubrication of joints, and movement, and maintain flexibility. Deep vein thrombosis (the most common cause of ulceration of the legs in the elderly) is prevented by performing Salat and Taraweeh prayers.

Metabolic Effects
Salat improves body weight control and expends calories without a proportionate increase in appetite. A combination of moderate dietary restriction, both at the Iftar and Sahur (early morning breakfast before the start of fast) meals, accompanied by the Taraweeh prayers, should achieve weight reduction. This will also reduce both fat and body weight, but the fat-free weight will remain constant or may even increase slightly. Hence during Ramadan, one should not overeat the Sahur and Iftar meals and continue to perform Salat and Taraweeh prayers in order to lose some of the excess weight.

It is well known that exercise prevents coronary heart disease (CHD), increases high-density lipoproteins (HDL or healthy Cholesterol), increases maximum oxygen uptake, slows the heart, lowers the B.P. slightly, decreases ventricular ectopic activity, enlarges the lumen of the coronary arteries and increases cardiac output.

Exercise also improves carbohydrate tolerance and improves late-onset diabetes, and helps cases of chronic respiratory diseases. Beneficial changes have been recorded in the lipid profile, B.P., clotting factors, weight reduction and insulin sensitivity of muscles and other tissues in persons who exercise regularly. Growth Hormone secretion is elevated by fasting and it is further elevated by Taraweeh prayers. As Growth Hormone is necessary for collagen formation, this may be an important factor as to why the skin of those who fast regularly during Ramadan and perform the Taraweeh prayers do not get wrinkled, even when they grow old.

Mental Health
It is a known fact that exercise improves mood, thought and behaviour. Exercise improves the quality of life, induces a greater sense of well-being and energy, reduces anxiety and depression, influences mood favourably and contributes to self-esteem and an aura of confidence; improves memory in the elderly, especially with constant repetition of the Ayaat (verses) from the Glorious Quran and other Ayaat which exalt His Glory. This constant repetition of the Quranic Ayaat would help to screen the mind from incoming thoughts. It has been found by a Harvard University researcher, Dr Herbert Benson that repetition of a prayer, Ayaat of the Quran or remembrance (Dhikr) of Allah or muscular activity coupled with passive disregard of intensive thoughts causes a “relaxation response” that leads to the lowering of Blood Pressure and decreases in oxygen consumption and a reduction in heart and respiratory rates. All these are combined in the Taraweeh prayer which is an ideal condition for “relaxation response.” It combines repeated muscular activity with repetition of Salat, chanting of words of glorification of Allah and of supplications. The Taraweeh prayer puts the mind in a relaxed state. This calm state of the mind may be partly due to the release of encephalins, beta-endorphins (endogenous morphine) and others into the blood circulation. Endorphins are any one of the neuropeptides composed of many amino acids, elaborated by the pituitary gland and acting on the central and peripheral nervous systems to reduce pain. Endorphins are categorised as alpha-endorphin, beta-endorphin, and gamma-endorphin which produce pharmacologic effects similar to morphine. Beta-endorphin found in the brain and GI(gastrointestinal) tract is the most potent of the endorphins and is a powerful analgesic(pain killer) in humans and animals. For example, during childbirth many women release endorphins reducing a woman’s sensation of pain. The release of endorphins is associated with euphoria. During childbirth, women who give birth with little or no medication sometimes label this euphoria a “birth climax.”

Conclusion
Islam is the only religion where physical movements of Salat and Taraweeh prayers are combined with spiritual exercise. When Salat and Taraweeh prayers are practised throughout a person’s life, recurring every few hours or so, trains a person to undertake the difficult task of meditation during physical manoeuvres of Salat and Taraweeh prayers so that the Namazi(one who performs the Salat) benefits both from spiritual as well as physical exercise. Salat and Taraweeh prayers are unique in that tension builds up in the muscles during physical manoeuvres on the one hand, while tension is relieved in the mind due to the spiritual ingredient, on the other hand. The following benefits have been noted among those who perform the Taraweeh prayers: burning off calories and losing weight, maintaining muscle tone and body composition, joint flexibility (stiff joints are often the result of disuse, not arthritis), increasing metabolic rate, improving circulation, improving heart and lung function and aerobic capacity, decreasing heart disease risk profile, increasing your sense of self-control, reducing your level of stress, increasing your ability to concentrate, improving your appearance, reducing depression and resistance to depression, helping you sleep better and suppressing your appetite. Evidence is also accumulating that those who perform regular Salat along with voluntary prayers can conserve and actually retard the loss of bone mass in the elderly, thus staving off the ravages of osteoporosis that afflicts both men and women. It is also possible to retard the ageing process and confer some protection to health in later life. Those who have performed Salat (Fard and Wajib), Sunnah and Nafl and Taraweeh prayers throughout life get protection and a positive effect in terms of health and longevity. They reverse the life-shortening effects of cigarette smoking and excess body weight. Even people with high blood pressure (a primary heart disease risk) reduced their death rate by one-half and their risk of dying from any of the major diseases is reduced. They also counter genetic tendencies toward an early death.

Hence Salat (Fard, Wajib), Sunnah, Nafl and Taraweeh prayers are necessary for Muslims to preserve life and their desirable qualities into old age.

Benifits Of Fasting

Ramadan is derived from ramdaa which means ” sun-baked,” perhaps a reference to the pangs of fasting. Almighty Allah says in the Quran “O believers! fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for the people before you so that you may become pious.” {Qur’an chapter 2: verse 183}

Fasting is one of the pillars of Islam. It has been an integral part of all major religions. Its mentioned in (Matthew 4:2) that the prophet Jesus (peace be upon him) fasted for forty days before he was called to prophethood and its mentioned in (exodus 24:18) that prophet Moses (peace be upon him) fasted for forty days and nights before he was given the law.

Fasting in Ramadan is a part of the broader program that Islam prescribes for man to fulfill his moral and spiritual destiny in this world and in the hereafter.

It is the special worship designed to develop in man the ability to exercise self-restraint and patience for the pleasure of Allah, man’s creator, lord, and nourisher.

Its objective is to give man the power to keep in check his unruly desires and tendencies that make him prone to greed, revenge, anger, provocation, and fear; that makes him commit various sins, acts of aggression, cruelty, and oppression.

It seeks to free the human soul and lends it the moral and spiritual strength to promote beauty, harmony, kindness, peace, compassion, and justice. the Quran says: ” we sent our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the balance (of right and wrong ), that men may stand forth in justice.” (chapter 57:verse 25)

What Is The Purpose Of Animals And Plants On Earth?

It should be noted that Allah has created man to worship Him, as He says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And I (Allah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone)”
[al-Dhaariyaat 51:56]

Allah has created for man and has subjugated to him what is in the heavens and on earth, so that he may benefit from it and enjoy it, and meet his needs, and use it to help him to worship Allah.

Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“He is Who created for you all that is on earth” [al-Baqarah 2:29]

“See you not (O men) that Allah has subjected for you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth, and has completed and perfected His Graces upon you, (both) apparent (i.e. Islamic Monotheism, and the lawful pleasures of this world, including health, good looks) and hidden [i.e. one’s faith in Allah (of Islamic Monotheism), knowledge, wisdom, guidance for doing righteous deeds, and also the pleasures and delights of the Hereafter in Paradise]” [Luqmaan 31:20]

|And has subjected to you all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth; it is all as a favor and kindness from Him. Verily, in it are signs for a people who think deeply? [al-Jaathiyah 45:13]

“And He has made the sun and the moon, both constantly pursuing their courses, to be of service to you; and He has made the night and the day, to be of service to you” [Ibraaheem 14:33]

There follow some of the reasons and purposes for the existence of animals and plants on Earth:
Plants are food for people and animals. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Verily, the likeness of (this) worldly life is as the water (rain) which We send down from the sky; so by it arises the intermingled produce of the earth of which men and cattle eat” [Yoonus 10:24]

“Then let man look at his food:
We pour forth water in abundance.
And We split the earth in clefts.
And We cause therein the grain to grow,
And grapes and clover plants (i.e. green fodder for the cattle),
And olives and date palms,
And gardens dense with many trees,
And fruits and herbage.
(To be) a provision and benefit for you and your cattle.” [Abasa 80:24-32]

Plants remind man that this world will come to an end:
Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Verily, the likeness of (this) worldly life is as the water (rain) which We send down from the sky; so by it arises the intermingled produce of the earth of which men and cattle eat: until when the earth is clad in its adornments and is beautified, and its people think that they have all the powers of disposal over it, Our Command reaches it by night or by day and We make it like a clean-mown harvest as if it had not flourished yesterday! Thus do We explain the Ayaat in detail for the people who reflect”
[Yoonus 10:24]

Allah gives people the likeness of the resurrection of the dead and they are coming forth from their graves, by reminding them of what they see of the earth coming back to life after it was dead. He says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And among His Signs (in this), that you see the earth barren, but when We send down water (rain) to it, it is stirred to life and growth (of vegetations). Verily, He Who gives it life surely is Able to give life to the dead (on the Day of Resurrection). Indeed He is Able to do all things” [Fussilat 41:39]

The man also derives medicines from plants, the greatest of which is the black seed of which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said that it is a cure for every disease apart from death (narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5687); and honey, which is gathered from the nectar of flowers, of which Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): ” wherein is healing for man” [al-Nahl 16:69].

Animals are also food for people.
Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And the cattle, He has created them for you; in them, there is warmth (warm clothing), and numerous benefits, and of them, you eat” [al-Nahl 16:5]

And He is Who has subjected the sea (to you), that you eat thereof fresh tender meat (i.e. fish), and that you bring forth out of it ornaments to wear. And you see the ships plowing through it, that you may seek (thus) of His Bounty (by transporting the goods from place to place) and that you may be grateful” [al-Nahl 16:14]

And animals are a means of transportation and an adornment.
Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And (He has created) horses, mules, and donkeys, for you to ride and as an adornment. And He creates (other) things of which you have no knowledge” [al-Nahl 16:8]

From animals, man makes the tents in which he lives and the clothes that he wears. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And Allah has made for you in your homes an abode, and made for you out of the hides of the cattle (tents for) dwelling, which you find so light (and handy) when you travel and when you stay (in your travels); and of their wool, fur, and hair (sheep wool, camel fur, and goat hair), furnishings and articles of convenience (e.g. carpets, blankets), comfort for a while” [al-Nahl 16:80]

Horses are a means of jihad and will remain so until the Hour begins; the Muslims wage jihad on horseback and achieve victory, acquire war booty, and are rewarded by Allah.
Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And make ready against them all you can of power, including steeds of war to threaten the enemy of Allah and your enemy, and others besides whom, you may not know but whom Allah does know” [al-Anfaal 8:60]

Al-Bukhaari (2852) and Muslim (1873) narrated from Urwah al-Baariqi that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Good will remain (as a permanent quality) in the foreheads of horses (for Jihad) till the Day of Resurrection, for they bring about reward (from Allah) and booty.”

These are some of the benefits of animals and plants. And there are other purposes and benefits which no one knows except Allah.
And Allah knows best.

Nine Great Benefits Of Reciting The Quran

Indeed to reflect on Allah’s verses is a form of worship that will draw one close to Allah Most High. This reflection is not a reckless and wandering one, rather it includes a study of the classical Tafseer of the verses being pondered over, as this would fulfill Ibnul-Qayyim’s great advice, “Such as reflecting over a book which a person has memorized and he expounds it so that he may understand what its author intends by it.”

Indeed the Book of Allah is not a book like any other, it is the timeless Speech of Allah, not a created thing, the study guide for life and death and what comes after. Therefore it deserves a more careful study than anyone else’s speech. It necessitates that its reader return to the early narrations of those who witnessed its revelation and heard its explanation by the one deputed by Allah to rehearse and explain His Words to humanity (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam). For if one would try to ponder over the meanings of the verses without having done this study, then surely the filth of the time that he lives in and his ignorance of the correct application and understanding that the early Muslims had would cause him to understand some things not intended by Allah Most High, and therefore he would go astray, thinking to be worshipping Allah. So every sincere Muslim who hopes to earn Allah’s Love reciting and reflecting over Allah’s Book, then let him hold tight to the meanings explained by the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam), and those taught by the companions and their immediate followers, and the early scholars of Islam.

So dear brother and sister Muslim! Know that reciting and pondering over the Book of Allah, devoting your time regularly to its study and implementation has tremendous benefits in this life and the Next, so let us now look to just a few of them to attach ourselves more firmly to Allah’s Majestic Words. Each benefit stands as enough of an encouragement to shun any laziness we have and dedicate ourselves to the Qur’an.

1 – Reading and reflecting over the Qur’an fulfills an Islamic duty.
Indeed the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) summarised this Religion with his statement: “The Religion is naseehah (sincerity)!” So then Tameem ibn Aws, may Allah be pleased with him, then said, “We asked, ‘To whom?'” He said: “To Allah, HIS BOOK, His Messenger, the leaders of the people, and their common folk.” [Muslim] The sincerity that is due to the Book of Allah includes its regular recitation, learning the rules of tajweed and reciting it beautifully, learning about its Tafseer and the reasons for its revelation, affirming that it is the Truth, the perfect Speech of Allah and not part of the creation, honoring it and defending it, abiding by the orders and prohibitions found in it, teaching it and calling to it. [See Jaami’ul-‘Uloom wal-Hikam of Ibn Rajab Al-Hambalee] So by reading and reflecting over the Qur’an, one fulfills an obligation and is rewarded for that. Upon fulfilling this obligation, the Qur’an then becomes proof for him on the Day of Judgment! And that is the second benefit we will take by embracing this Noble Book…

2 – The Qur’an will be proof for us on the Day of Judgment.
This is due to the statement of the Messenger: “And the Qur’an is a proof for you or against you.” [Muslim] So one of two things will occur with this proof, the Book of Allah. It will either be in your favor, a proof for you on the Day when you will need every single good deed, or it will be something standing against you, the very Speech of your Creator, a proof against you! Who could be saved from the terrors of that Day if Allah’s own Speech is against him?! Think carefully, dear Muslim brother or sister, about your position with the Qur’an! Are you neglecting it, contradicting it, being heedless of its orders and prohibitions, are you thinking deeply over it?! Will it be on your side on the Day of Judgment.?! O, Allah! We ask you, by Your Glorious Speech and the rest of your beautiful Names and Attributes, to make the Qur’an a proof for us! O, Allah! Don’t make the Qur’an a proof against us on that Day, and save us from the hellfire! For if Allah makes the Qur’an a proof in our favor on that Day, then it would also be an intercessor for us when NO intercession will take place except by His Permission.

3 – The Qur’an will intercede for us on the Day of Judgment.
The proof: Aboo Umaamah relates that the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said: “Read the Qur’an, for verily it will come on the Day of Standing as an intercessor for its companions.” [Muslim]

4 – Your status in this life will be raised.
In Saheeh Muslim, we find a lovely story, about how a man from the people of Jannah, ‘Umar ibn Al-Khattaab, understood this principle. Some men came to question him during his Khilafah about the leadership of Makkah, they asked, “Who do you use to govern Makkah?” He said, “Ibn Abzaa.” They asked, “And who is Ibn Abzaa?” Umar replied, “A freed slave from those we freed.” They remarked, “You left a freed slave in charge of the people of the Valley (the noble tribes of the Quraysh)!?” So he answered them, “Verily he is a reader of the Book of Allah and is knowledgeable about the obligations of the Muslims. Haven’t you heard the statement of your Messenger: “Verily Allah raises some people by this Book and lowers others by it.”

5 – You will be from the best of the people.
‘Uthmaan, may Allah be pleased with him, said that the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said: “The best of you are the ones who learn the Qur’an and teach it to others” [Al-Bukhari]

6 – There are ten rewards for each letter you recite from the Qur’an.
As an authentic hadith in At-Tirmithee proves: “Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah, he will have a reward. And that reward will be multiplied by ten. I am not saying that “Alif, Laam, Meem” is a letter, rather I am saying that “Alif” is a letter, “laam” is a letter and “meem” is a letter.” So increase your recitation of the Qur’an to gain these merits, and to gain the following merit as well.

7 – The reciters of the Qur’an will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels.
‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, relates that the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said: “Verily the one who recites the Qur’an beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, he will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. And as for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have TWICE that reward.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

So dear brother or sister Muslim, do not let the Shaytaan give you false excuses, such as “I am not an ‘Arab,” or “It is not my language.” This hadith is firm proof against these whisperings. Dedicate yourself to the Book of Allah, whether you are an ‘Arab or not! The excuses have been eliminated and the pathway has been cleared for you to embrace the Book of Allah without holding back or offering excuses! And surely you will not hesitate to seek a teacher or a study circle for the Qur’an once you hear the last and perhaps greatest benefits of reading and contemplating over the Qur’an…

8 – Your position in Paradise is determined by the amount of Qur’an you memorize in this life!
‘Abdullaah ibn ‘Amr ibn Al-‘Aas heard the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) saying: “It will be said to the companion of the Qur’an: Read and elevate (through the levels of the Paradise) and beautify your voice as you used to do when you were in the Dunya! For verily, your position in the Paradise will be at the last verse you recite!” [Aboo Daawood and At-Tirmithee, saheeh]

9 – The Qur’an will lead you to Paradise!
The Prophet said: “The Qur’an is an intercessor, something has given permission to intercede, and it is rightfully believed in. Whoever puts it in front of him, it will lead him to Paradise; whoever puts it behind him, it will steer him to the Hellfire.” [An authentic hadith found in At-Tabaraanee, on the authority of ‘Abdullaah ibn Mas’ood] Know, dear brother or sister, that these nine benefits from the many benefits available can only be attained by a sincere commitment to the Book of Allah, not by a person’s mere statement, “I love the Qur’an, it’s beautiful.” Rather the heart must be sincerely attached to Allah’s Book and the limbs and tongue will follow in this attachment. You must know that we only mentioned a few of the numerous benefits of reading and reflecting on the Qur’an. There are many benefits that await your reading in the Qur’an and books of hadith, like the chapter of the Qur’an that will argue on your behalf in the grave, and that it is physical healing, a source of rest and relaxation for your heart, among many other things. And Allah knows best. (Taken from Look 4 Islam)