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TAG: Sadaqah

The Austere Life Of Abu Zar (R.A)

Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam said, “If I possessed gold to the extent of mount Uhud, I would not like to keep any of it with me for more than three days, except what I put aside for paying a debt”.

Note: Mount Uhud is well known as the biggest mountain near Madinah. Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam has said that, if he had as much gold as the mountain of Uhud, he would like to give it away within three days and would not keep any portion of it with himself.

This is simply meant to convey that it will take at least three days to distribute that huge amount of gold. Of course, if there was a debt to be paid and the creditor was not present, some portion of gold could be retained till the debt could be paid. This shows that payment of a debt is more important than Sadaqah. It was the noble habit of
Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam not to hoard anything. Anas Radhiallaho anho who was the special attendant of Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam says that he never kept anything for the next day.

Once somebody presented three birds to Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam, one of which he gave to his own attendant. The attendant brought back that bird the following day to Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam who said to him “Have I not told you not to keep anything for the next day? Allah Jalla Shanohu Himself will provide food for the next day.” Samurah Radhiallaho anho quoted Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam as saying that he checked the store cabinet frequently to make sure that nothing was left in it, lest he should die with something left behind.

Abu Zarr Ghifari Radhiallaho anho, a famous and extremely pious Sahabi had a particular aversion to wealth, about which several incidents have been reported, one of which has been related under the Ayat given at Serial No. 11 above. He says, “I was once accompanying Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam when he looked at Mount Uhud
and said,
“If this mountain were to turn into gold and be given to me, I would not like to keep a single Dinaar of it with me for more than three days except that which I put aside to pay a debt”. He added, “Many of those who have much property shall gain scanty rewards, except for those who say, “Take this and this, before them, behind them, on their right and on their left”. (The narrator made a gesture indicating that they spend profusely with both their hands, distributing money to people around them). (Bukhari)

In Mishkaat, another incident has been related to Abu Zarr Radhiallaho anho. Abu Zarr Radhiallaho anho was once sitting with Uthman Radhiallaho anho during the period of the latter’s Caliphate when he told Ka’b Radhiallaho anho that Abdur Rahman Radhiallaho anho had died leaving behind some property and asked him what he thought about it. Ka’b replied that there was no harm in leaving such property if he had given what was due on it to Allah Ta’ala.

Hearing this, Abu Zarr raised the stick he was carrying, struck Ka’b, and said that he had heard Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam saying, “If I possessed gold equal in quantity to this mountain, which I could spend and which were accepted from me, I would not like to leave behind even six ‘Auqias’ (a small weight) of it”. Abu Zarr Radhiallaho anho then turned to Uthman Radhiallaho anho and adjured him three times to tell him if he had not heard Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam saying these words. Uthman said that he had.

Imaam Bukhari Rahmathullah alaihe has related still another story about Abu Zarr Radhiallaho anho, on the authority of Ahnaf Ibne Qais Rahmathullah alaihe, who says, “I was once sitting with a group of the Quraish in Madinah Munawwarah when a man came there.

He had stiff, dry, and disheveled hair, was dressed in coarse cloth, and looked like an ordinary man. He stopped by their side, greeted them saying, ‘Assalam-o-Alaikum’ and then addressing the people, said “Give those who hoard up treasures, tidings of a rock heated in the fire of Jahannam, which will be placed on their breasts; its heat will cause their flesh to melt and to boil over their shoulders. The rock will then be put on their shoulders causing it to flow from their breasts”. Saying this, he went into the Masjid and sat down beside a pillar.

I did not know who this Divine was; so, I followed him, sat near him, and said, “The people gathered there did not pay heed to what you said; they rather seemed to dislike your saying so”. The divine replied, “They are fools who lack proper understanding, my most loved friend once told me”. When I asked him who was his most loved friend, he replied, “Rasulullah Sallallaho alaihe wasallam was my most loved friend who once said to me, ‘Abu Zarr, do you see Mount Uhud over there? I said that I did” (thinking that he wanted to send me on an errand and was telling me how much time remained before sunset.) He then said, “If I had gold to the extent of that mountain I would love to spend all of it except for three Dinaars”.

Other versions of the Hadith explain why he would like to keep three Dinaars. After this Abu Zarr Radhiallaho anho said, “These people have no sense; they go on hoarding wealth. By Allah, I neither expect them to give me any money nor need to ask them anything about my religion! Then, why should I feel afraid or hesitate to tell them
exactly what I believe to be true?” (Fatah)

Refrence:
Book Name: Fazail-e-Sadqaat.
Author Name: Shiekh ul Hadees Maulana Zikariya Sahab.

What Is Zakah, Benefits, And Punishment For Not Paying Zakah

What Is Zakah?
Zakah is an obligatory form of “charity” expected from every Muslim individual. Zakat can be defined as that portion of a man’s wealth that is designated for the poor. The term is derived from the Arabic verbal root meaning to increase, to purify, and to bless. “Take Sadaqah from their property in order to purify and sanctify them” (Al-Quran 9:103)

It refers to the purification of a Muslim’s wealth and soul. To “purify” is to purify them from the faults of stinginess, greed and meanness, and lack of remorse towards the needy, and other similar depravities.

“Zakat is for the poor, and the needy, and those who are employed to administer and collect it, and the new converts, and for those who are in bondage, and in debt and service of the cause of Allah, and for the wayfarers, a duty ordained by Allah, and Allah is the All-Knowing, the Wise”. At Taubah 9: 60

Benefits Of Zakah
Zakat is for the welfare of the unprivileged and establishes a society on humanitarian grounds. Zakat also purifies the heart of the recipient from jealousy and hatred toward those who are wealthy in the material sense. Zakat also purifies his heart from selfishness and greed for wealth and is an essential element in attaining mutual love, cooperation, and solidarity among members of Moslem society.

The Messenger of Allah (saws) said: “He who discharges Zakah of his property, his sins shall leave him.”

“The parable of those who spend their substance in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn; it grows seven ears and each ear has a hundred grain. Allah gives manifold increase to whom he pleases.” (2:26)

In the above verse 2:26, Allah has promised that He will repay hundredfold in the hereafter what a believer spent in the way of Allah.

The Nisaab (Minimum ‘Zakatable’ Income)
The Nisaab is defined as the minimum wealth that one must hold for one year, at the end of which Zakat is payable. The Nisaab of gold is three ounces or about 85 grams of pure gold and of silver is 596 grams of pure silver. All Muslims (minor or adult) with a set minimum level of income and assets are expected to pay Zakat of at least 2.5%.

Types Of Zakah

1. Zakah On Business (URAD AL TIJARAH)
In this context, business refers to any form of trading activity that generates income (i.e. Buying and selling, for the sake of profit e.g. foodstuffs, furniture, animals, land, etc). Anyone who owns a business with a minimum working capital (Stock and Cash) must pay Zakat.

Formula: 2.5% x [(Current Assets – Current Liabilities)

2. Zakah On Rental Income
Formula: 2.5% x [Total Annual Rental Revenue – Rental Expenses]

3. Zakah On Agricultural Produce
Zakah On Agriculture Is Due Upon Each Harvest If It Is Equal To 2 Wasq (A Measure That’s Equal To 653 Kg).

Zakat is payable on all agricultural produce including fruits, commercially grown flowers, vegetables, and all types of grains at the time of harvest itself. The Zakat levy on agricultural produce varies according to the way the land is irrigated.

a) The Zakat is 10% of the land produce if the land is irrigated by streams, rivers (running water), or rainfall (without human effort).
b) The Zakat is 5% of the land produce if the land is irrigated by wells (or by artificial canal systems, tank water, or bore well and open well) There is no deduction out of this on any account.
c) For crops dependent partly on rainwater and partly on other water (Irrigation), the Zakat applicable would be 7.5% of produce.

4. Zakah On Personal Income (e.g. Salary)
In this context, personal income refers to the salary/wages, commissions, allowances, bonuses, and monetary gifts earned by a zakah payer through permissible (halal) activities.

Zakat is payable When the total annual salary (i.e. salary per month multiplied by 12 months) earned by an individual is equal to or greater than the price of 596 grams of pure silver.
Formula: 2.5% x [Total Salary for the Year + Any Other Income/allowances]

Narrated ‘Abdullah: The Prophet said, “Who among you considers the wealth of his heirs dearer to him than his own wealth?” They replied, “O Allah’s Apostle! There is none among us but loves his own wealth more.” The Prophet said, “So his wealth is whatever he spends (in Allah’s Cause) during his life (on good deeds) while the wealth of his heirs is whatever he leaves after his death.”

5. Zakah On Animals:

Goats and Sheep
Up to 39 Goats/Sheep=No Zakat
From 40 to 120 Goats/Sheep=1 goat
From 121 to 200 Goats/Sheep=2 goats
From 201 to 300 Goats/Sheep=3 goats
Thereafter 300 on 1 goat for every 100 Goats/Sheep

Cows and Oxen
Up to 29 cows= No Zakat
From 30 to 39 cows=1 one-year-old male or female calf.
From 40 to 59 cows =1 two-year-old male or female
From 60 to 69 cows =2 one-year-old male or female
From 70 to 79 cows =1 one-year-old and 1 two-year-old male or female
From 80 to 89 cows =2 two-year-old male or female
From 90 to 99 cows =3 one-year-old male or female
From 100 to 109 cows =1 two-year-old male or female
From 110 to 119 cows =2 two-year and 1 one-year-old male or female
From 120 to 129 cows =3 two-year-old or 4 one-year-old male or female
Thereafter 130 on 1 one-year-old for each 30 or 1 two-year-old for each 40.

Please Note:
· The person who owns different types of wealth e.g. animals, commercial goods and gold and silver must give Zakat on each category of wealth separately.

· Zakat must be given in kind, that is, if one’s wealth is in cattle, one must pay in cattle rather than their equivalent in money;

· Items of everyday use that are not meant for trade, such as household utensils, clothes; tools and machinery used for further production or business operation, and animals used in agriculture are not Zakatable

Where Should One Pay His Zakah?
Zakat can be paid at the mosque near you so the mosque committee or the Imaam can distribute it to the poor and needy that are entitled to get it. You can also give it to any Reputable Muslim Charitable Organization of your choice.

Please Also Note: A Muslim’s primary responsibility is to pay the Zakat, not to supervise how it is spent. Refusal to pay the Zakat for fear of it being misappropriated is punishable by Allah as indicated below.

Punishment For Those Who Refuses To Pay Zakah
Allah (The Glorified and the Exalted) has strongly warned those who are negligent in the fulfillment of these duties. Thus He said, “Those who hoard up treasures of gold and silver and spend them not in the way of Allah; give them the news of a painful punishment, on the Day when that (wealth) will be heated in the Fire of Hell and with it will be branded their forehead, their sides, and their backs, (and it will be said to them:) ‘This is the treasure which you hoarded for yourselves. Now taste of what you used to hoard.'” [Al-Quran 9:34-35]

‘Let not those who are miserly with what God has given them of His bounty think that this is good for them. Rather, it is bad for them. That which they withhold shall be hung around their necks on the Day of Arising.’ [Al-Quran 3:180]

Further, At-Tabarani relates, on the authority of ‘Ali, that the Prophet (PBUH) said: “Allah has enjoined upon rich Muslims a due to be taken from their properties corresponding to the needs of the poor among them. The poor will never suffer from starvation or lack of clothes unless the rich neglect their due. If they do, Allah will surely hold them accountable and punish them severely.” (Related by At-Tabarani in Al-‘Aswat and as-Saghir).

Purification Of Wealth

“Establish Salah and pay Zakah and bow down with those who bow down in worship.” Al- Quran [al-Baqarah, 2:43]

Allah has related a story of some people who were earning that which Allah was providing them. However, they believed that they were earning their wealth because of their hard work and they forgot that it is actually Allah who provided them with what they had earned. They said why should we share our wealth with the needy people as it belongs to us because we had been working hard for it. Allah then tested them until they finally returned to their Lord in submission. Allah says in Surah al-Qalam:

“Surely We shall try them as We tried the owners of the garden when they swore that they would pluck its fruit the next morning, without adding any reservation ( such as Insha’Allah, God willing). So a calamity from your Lord came down upon it while they slept, and by the morning it lay as if it had been already harvested. At daybreak they called out to one another, saying: ‘Go out early to your crop if you want to pick its fruit.’ So they went, whispering to one another: ‘ Let no needy person enter upon you in the garden today.’ Thus they went out, fixed in their stingy resolve. But when they saw the garden, they cried: ‘Surely we must have lost our way! Nay, we have become destitute.’ The most upright among them said: ‘Did I not tell you to glorify Allah? Why did you not glorify him?’ Then they said: ‘Glory be to our Lord! Surely we were unjust,”. (And they started blaming one another).

Finally, they said: ‘”Woe to us! Surely we had become rebellious. It may be that our Lord will give us in exchange a better garden than this: surely to our Lord do we make our humble petition.’ Such is the punishment in this life, but the punishment in the Hereafter is even greater if they but knew it.” [al-Qalam – 68:17-33]

There is another story in the Qur’an. Qaroon was a wealthy man from Bani-Israael, (” And We gave him of the treasures, that of which the keys would have been a burden to a body of strong men”). His belief was that he had earned all his wealth because of his own intelligence or knowledge, (Qaroon said: “This has been given to me only because of knowledge I possess.”). Allah then destroyed him and all his wealth,” So We caused the earth to swallow him and his dwelling place. Then he had no group or party to help him against Allah, nor was he one of those who could save themselves.” [Surah al-Qasas]

Allah has made Zakah obligatory for Muslims to protect& purify our wealth. Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi was- sallam) said”Allah has made Zakat obligatory simply to purify your remainingproperty,..” [Abu Dawud]. We should know that the one Who favors us can also take back what He had given us. We should also remember that Zakah does not replace Sadaqah. Zakah is obligatory on those who are entitled to pay, whereas Sadaqah (charity) can be given by anyone including those who have a minimum or just a little more than nothing. Even a smile could be a Sadaqah.

“And in their properties, there was the right of the beggar, and the mahroom” [51:19]

Allah says about the Muttaqeen that they spend their income on those who ask them [beggars, lilssaili] as well as on those who are needy but they do not ask for help [Mahroom]. A beggar could be truly in need or could be a habitual one. However, it is the nobility of character that one should always give something when asked by someone. Even if a billionaire asks us for something, we should not let him go without anything, at least give him something. We should give according to our standard. How would you think about a millionaire giving a penny to charity?

“O believers, spend in Allah’s Way the best portion of the wealth you have lawfully earned and that which We have produced for you from the earth, and do not pick out for charity those worthless things that you yourselves would not accept but with closed eyes.
Bear in mind that Allah is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy.” [al-Baqarah – 2:267]

Allah says that those people who are saved from the greediness and love of wealth, it is they who are successful.

“So keep your duty to Allah and fear Him as much as you can; listen and obey; and spend in charity, that is better for yourselves. And whosoever is saved from his own covetousness, (waman yooqa shuhha nafsihi) then they are the successful ones.” [at-Taghabun – 64:16]

“And spend of that with which We have provided you before death comes to one of you and he says: “My Lord! If only You would give me respite for a little while (i.e. return to the worldly life), then I should give Sadaqah (or Zakat) of my wealth, and be among the righteous. [al-Munafiqoon – 63:10]

“And Al-Muttaqoon will be far removed from it (Hell).

He who spends his wealth for increase in self-purification, And have in his mind no favor from anyone for which a reward is expected in return, Except only the desire to seek the good pleasure of his Lord, the Highest; Such persons shall soon be well-pleased with Allah.” [al-Lail – 92:17-21]

Important Notes Regarding Sadaqatul-Fitr

I. Hadrat ibn ‘Umar said, “The Prophet made incumbent on every male or female, free man or slave, young or old, the payment of one Sa’ of dates or barley as Sadaqat-ul-Fitr. The Messenger of Allah commanded that this sadaqah be paid before one goes to perform the Eid prayer.” [Sahih Bukhari – Book on Zakah, Volume 1, Page 204]

II. Hadrat Hasan said: Hadrat Ibn Abbas preached to the people towards the end of Ramadan, standing on the pulpit (in the mosque) of al-Basrah. He said: “Bring forth the sadaqah relating to your fast.” The people, as it were, could not understand. “Which of the people of Medina are present here? Stand for your brethren, and teach them, for they do not know” said Hadrat ibn ‘Abbas. He further added: “The Messenger of Allah prescribed this sadaqah as one sa’ of dried dates or barley, or half a sa’ of wheat payable by every freeman or slave, male or female, young or old.” When Hadrat Ali came (to Basrah), he found that the price had come down. He said: “Allah has given prosperity to you, so give one sa’ of everything (as sadaqah).” [Sunan Abi Dawood – Book on Zakah, Volume 1, page 229]

III. Hadrat ‘Abdullah ibn Tha’laba or Tha’laba ibn ‘Abdullah (narrator cannot recall exactly what the name was) ibn Abu Saghir, who narrates from his father that the Messenger of Allah said, “One sa’ of wheat is enough from every two; young or old; freeman or slave; male or female. Those of you who are rich will be purified by Allah, and those of you who are poor will have more than they gave returned by Him to them.” [Sunan Abi Dawood – Book on Zakah, Volume 1, Page 228]

IV. Hadrat ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas reported that the Messenger of Allah prescribed Sadqatul Fitr, so that the fasts (kept throughout the month of Ramadan) may be purified from any falsehood, wrongdoing or evil talk, and (at the same time) it shall assist to feed the poor and the needy. [Sunan Abi Dawood – Book on Zakah, Volume 1, Page 227]

V. Hadrat ‘Amr ibn Shu’aib reports from his father, who reports from his grandfather that the Holy Prophet sent a person that he calls out loud in the streets of Makkah al-Mukarramah that Sadaqat ul Fitr is Wajib (necessary) upon every Muslim male or female; freeman or a slave; young or old. [Sunan Tirmidhi – Book on Zakah, Volume 1, Page 146]

Important Notes:
1. Sadaqa-e-Fitr is Wajib upon such a person who owns assets, which equal the value of the Nisab. Such individuals should give Sadaqa-e-Fitr on their behalf and on behalf of their children if they do not own assets equal to the value of Nisab. Yes, however, if the children do own assets which are equal to or more than the Nisab limit, then the Sadaqa-e-Fitr shall be given from their own wealth. [al-Durr al-Mukhtar, Bahar-e-Shari’at]

2. The owner of Nisab in the ruling as regards Sadaqa-e-Fitr is such a person who has 7 ½ Tola gold (93 grammes 312 milligrammes,) or 52 ½ Tola silver (653 grammes 184 milligrammes), or equivalent value in money or any other form of asset. Or, one owns a business or non-business stock equivalent to that value, and these goods are added to the basic necessities of living (Hajat-e-Asliyyah).

3. For the Sadaqa-e-Fitr to become Wajib it is not necessary that one has fasted. Therefore, if anyone did not fast due to any excuse valid in the eyes of the Islamic Law; such as one is a Musafir (travelling to a destination which is at a distance of approximately 57 ½ miles or 92 kilometres), or is ill such that his illness shall become worse if he fasts, or because of weakness caused by old age, or – Allah forbid! – one did not keep the fasts due to any non-valid reason, then the Sadaqa-e-Fitr is still Wajib upon the person. [Radd al-Muhtar – Vol. 2 Page 76 and Bahar-e-Shari’at]

4. If the father is so poor (that he cannot give his own Sadaqa-e-Fitr let alone on behalf of his children,) or has passed away, then it is Wajib on the grandfather to give Sadaqa-e-Fitr on behalf of his grandchildren. [al-Durr al-Mukhtar]

5. If one wants to give anything besides wheat, barley, dates or raisins; for example, rice, millet or any other linseed, then the price of 1 sa’ of wheat or ½ sa’ of barley should be taken into consideration.

6. In terms of weight, one Sa’ is four pounds, six and a half ounces (4lb 6.5 oz) and half a Sa’ is two pounds, three and a quarter ounces (2lb 3.25 oz).

7. It is Mustahab (an act of great reward) to give the Sadaqa-e-Fitr on the morning of Eid day (after the beginning time for Fajr), before going to the Eidgah to perform the Eid prayer. [Fatawa-e-‘Alamgiri – Vol. 1, Page 180]

8. It is permissible to give Sadaqa-e-Fitr prior to the month of Ramadan or in Ramadan before the day of Eid. [Fatawa-e-‘Alamgiri – Vol. 1 Page 179 and al-Durr al-Mukhtar]

Extracted From Anwaar al-Hadith, Pages 146 to 148
by Hadrat Allama Mufti Jalal al-Din Qadiri al-Amjadi

Joining In Charity With Non-Muslims

Islam is a religion that cares for the welfare of all humans and calls for participating in volunteer activities and services for people without awaiting any reward from them but only from Allah.

In this sense, volunteering is deep-rooted in Islamic teachings and practices. In Islam, doing voluntary acts is not restricted to a certain race or religion but it encompasses all human beings and even all creatures.

Every voluntary act by a Muslim to bring about a material benefit or happiness for a human being is regarded as an act of worship. Several Ahadith of the Prophet (peace be upon him) designated several forms of social services as kinds of charity: removing a harmful thing from the road or street, enjoining what is good, forbidding what is evil, reconciling two people, receiving a Muslim brother with a smile, a good word, and so on.

Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) made helping others a human and social duty upon every Muslim, saying, “There is a (compulsory) sadaqah (charity) to be given for every joint of the human body (as a sign of gratitude to Allah) every day the sun rises. To judge justly between two persons is regarded as sadaqah; and to help a man concerning his riding animal, by helping him to mount it or by lifting his luggage on to it, is also regarded as sadaqah; and (saying) a good word is also sadaqah; and every step taken on one’s way to offer the compulsory prayer (in the mosque) is also sadaqah, and to remove a harmful thing from the way is also sadaqah.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim with a sound chain of transmission).

Volunteering refers to doing an activity of one’s own will without being paid for it or without expecting any material reward for it.

As for Muslims, they are strongly recommended to do many volunteer acts and they should do so for the sake of Allah and with the hope of getting His rewards in Hereafter.

In fact, there is no harm for Muslims living in the West to undertake volunteer activities with non-Muslims. Furthermore, they are strongly recommended to do so in order for them to introduce Islam to non-Muslims during these activities in a very kind and peaceful manner. Muslims have to mix with non-Muslims as much as they can in order for them to call them to Islam and introduce to them the beauty and greatness of the wonderful religion, Islam.

The Prophet (peace be upon him), said, “The believer who mixes with the people and has patience and tolerance with them is better than the believer who doesn’t mix with the people.”

Da’wah (calling others to Islam) should not be limited and focused on Muslims only, it has to move around and look for opportunities and seize the chances. Indeed, there are many verses in the Qur’an which call upon Muslims to interact with non-Muslims. Almighty Allah says: “Allah does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion nor drove you out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equity.” (60: 8)

He also says: “And if anyone of the Mushrikun (polytheists, idolaters, pagans, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah) seeks your protection then grant him protection so that he may hear the Word of Allah (the Qur’an) and then escort him to where he can be secure, that is because they are men who know not.” (9: 6)

There are also other verses which urged the Prophet (peace be upon him) him to call the People of the Book to Islam and its teachings. Furthermore, the biography of the Prophet (peace be upon him) is full of occasions that he benefited from and used for the interest of da’wah. It was reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) visited a young Jewish boy who fell sick. At the end of his visit, the Prophet called him to Islam and the father of the boy advised him to obey the Prophet (peace be upon him). The boy converted to Islam.

There are many practical examples that urge Muslims to seize various opportunities to serve the cause of Islam. All in all, Islam recommends participation in volunteer activities with Muslims as well as with non-Muslims.

Some Of The Symptoms, Avoidance And Cures Of Sins

Narrated by Abu Huraira, The Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said “Avoid the seven great destructive sins” the people asked O Allah Messenger ! what are they? He said, “To join others in worship along with Allah, to practice sorcery, to kill the life which Allah has forbidden except for a just cause, to eat up Riba (usury, interest), to eat up an orphan’s wealth, to show one’s back to the enemy and fleeing from the battlefield at the time of fighting and to accuse chaste women, who never even think of anything touching their chastity and are true believers”.[19]

Narrated by Abdullah bin Amr that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said “Whoever has the following four (characteristics) will be a pure hypocrite and whoever has one of the following four characteristics will have one characteristic of hypocrisy unless and until he gives it up.

1. Whenever he is entrusted, he betrays (proves dishonest).
2. Whenever he speaks, he tells a lie.
3. Whenever he makes a covenant, he proves treacherous.
4. Whenever he quarrels, he behaves in a very imprudent, evil, and insulting manner.” [20]

Narrated by ‘Aishah that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said “The most hated person to Allah is the one who is most quarrelsome of the opponents” [21]

Narrated by Abu Huraira that Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said “Part of a man’s good observance of Islam is that he leaves the things which do not concern him” ( i.e. avoiding interference with other’s matters).[22]

Narrated by Ibn Abbas that Allah Messenger (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) passed by two graves and said “Both of them are being tortured, and they are not being tortured for a major sin. This one used not to save himself from being soiled with his urine, and the other used to go about with calumnies” [23]

The Qur’an: Narrated by Uthman, The Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: “The best among you (Muslims) are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it (to others).” [24]

Ibn Masood reported that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) once said: “Whoever reads a single letter from Allah’s Book will receive a blessing and each blessing is worth ten times its value.”[25] Abu Umaamah reported that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said “Recite the Qur’an for verily on the Day of Resurrection it will act as an intercessor for its companions (those who read it often).[26]

Prayer ( Salat ) [27] To offer salat at its appointed time as narrated by Abdullah ibn Masud ‘I asked the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) Which deed is the dearest to Allah? He said, “To performs-Salat at their early fixed times……. “[28] Bearing in mind salat is to performed as the prophet ordered us to pray “Perform your salat the way you see me performing them” [29]

Fasting (Saum) and Charity (Sadaqah)[30] Mu’adh bin Jabal narrates: “The Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said to him “May I show you the gates of goodness? (They are) Fasting is a screen from hell, As-Sadaqah extinguishes the sins as the water extinguishes the fire, Standing in prayer by a slave of Allah during the last third part (Tahajjud) of a night” Then the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) recited (V.32:16) “Their sides forsake their beds”.[31]

Abu Huraira narrates that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said “Every day two angels come down from heaven and one of them says ‘O Allah! Compensate every person who spends in your cause,’ and the other (angel) says, ‘O Allah! Destroy every miser.'” [32]

Seeking Knowledge
Reported by Anas “Seeking knowledge is obligatory on every Muslim” [33]

Reported by Abu ad-Dardaa that he heard the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) say “If anyone travels on a road in search of knowledge, Allah will cause him to travel on one of the roads of paradise. The angels will lower their wings because of their pleasure with one who seeks knowledge, and forgiveness will be asked for him by the inhabitants of the heavens and earth and the fish in the depth of the oceans…” [34]

Adhering to the Sunnah
Reported by Abu Huraira that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said “I have left with you two things, if you hold on firmly to them, you will never go astray; Allah’s Book and my Sunnah.” [35] Abu Huraira narrates that Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said, “All my Ummah will enter paradise except those who refuse” They asked O Allah’s Messenger! who will refuse? He Said “Whoever obeys me will enter paradise, and whoever disobeys me is the one who refuses (to enter paradise)” [36]

Avoiding Bidah (Innovation)
Abdullah ibn Masoud relates that Allah’s Messenger (Pubh) drew a line for them one day and then Said “This is Allah’s path”, then he drew several lines (branching off) to the right and to the left and said, “These are the paths (of Misguidance) on each of which is a devil inviting people to follow it” and then he recited (the verse) “Verily this is my path, leading straight, so follow it. And do not follow the (other) paths for they will scatter you about from (Allah’s) path. This is His Command to you in order that you may be conscious of Allah.[37]”[38]

Aisha reported that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said “Whoever introduces something new into this religion of ours which does not belong in it will have it rejected” [39] (i.e., it will not be accepted by Allah.

Imitating the Kufaar
The Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) has warned us in regards to imitating the Kufaar, Abu Saeed al-Khudree reported that Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: “You will follow the practices of your predecessors, inch by inch and yard by yard, so much so that if they were to enter a lizard’s hole you would also follow them.” He then asked if he meant the Jews and the Christians and He replied “Who Else?” [40] The Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) also warned us saying: “Whoever resembles a people, he is one of them” [41] The Prophet (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) also cursed men who tried to resemble woman and women who tried to resemble men.[42]

We ask Allah, the Highest, that He turns the misguided of this Ummah back to the guidance, and that he makes us all support one another and aid one another in carrying out good and righteousness until we return to this Ummah its lost glory and honor, Indeed He is fully able and have the power to do that.

Sayings Of The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Narrated by Imran ibn Husayn(Radhiallaho anho): Allah’s Messenger (sallAllaahu `alaihi wasallam) said : If anyone swears a false oath in confinement, he should make his seat in Hell
on account of his (act).
Sunan of Abu-Dawood 3236

Narrated by AbuSa’id al-Khudri(Radhiallaho anho): Allah’s Messenger (sallAllaahu `alaihi wasallam) said :A man giving a dirham as sadaqah (charity) during his life is better than giving one hundred dirhams as sadaqah (charity) at the moment of his death.
Sunan of Abu-Dawood 2860

Narrated by Ibn Abbas (Radhiallaho anho): Allah’s Messenger (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam)said, “There are two blessings which many people lose: (They are) health and free time for doing good.”
Sahih Al-Bukhari Vol. 8 : No. 421

Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallaho anho): Allah’s Messenger (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said, ” “Whoever believes in Allah and His Apostle, offers prayer perfectly and fasts the month of Ramadan, will rightfully be granted Paradise by Allah, no matter whether he fights in Allah’s cause or remains in the land where he is born.” The people said, “O Allah’s Apostle! Shall we acquaint the people with this good news?” He said, “Paradise has one-hundred grades which Allah has reserved for the mujahidin who fight in His cause, and the distance between each of two grades is like the distance between the Heaven and the earth. So, when you ask Allah (for something), ask for Al-Firdaus which is the best and highest part of Paradise.” (i.e., The sub-narrator added, “I think the Prophet also said, ‘Above it (i.e. Al-Firdaus) is the Throne of Beneficent (i.e. Allah), and from it originate the rivers of Paradise.”)
Sahih Al-Bukhari Vol. 4 : No. 48 Hadith

Narrated by Abu Huraira (Radhiallaho anho): Allah’s Messenger (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said, “Angels come to you in succession by night and day and all of them get together at the time of the Fajr and ‘Asr prayers. Those who have passed the night with you (or stayed with you) ascend (to the Heaven) and Allah asks them, though He knows everything about you, well, “In what state did you leave my slaves?” The angels reply: “When we left them they were praying and when we reached them, they were praying.”
Sahih Al-Bukhari Vol. 1 : No. 530

Hidden Sadaqah Extinguishes Allah’s Wrath

Sadaqah (optional charity) refers to helping others in any way, by giving them in charity, by spending some time with them, listening to them attentively, directing them to the right path, feeling for them, smiling to them, removing whatever may harm them in streets, etc. All these are instances of sadaqah in its comprehensive sense.
Hidden sadaqah is what one gives in secret with no one but Almighty Allah knowing about it. When one gives charity to a needy person in secret, one spares the needy person the feelings of inferiority he may experience if given charity in front of other people.

Hidden sadaqah will help the needy meet their needs and will also help them get rid of the negative feelings of envy and grudge they might have harbored towards the rich people.

Feelings of love and respect would grow then between the needy and rich people, and this, in turn, would positively reflect on the unity of society and bind its members with the bonds of love and cooperation.
When the poor’s needs are met in an atmosphere that preserves them their dignity, the tension they would live in because of need will decrease and their energy for work will increase. This will reflect positively on their social relations with others.

There are many poor people who are in dire need, yet they restrain from asking for charity. Hidden sadaqah will help them a lot and spare them exposure to humiliation.

Allah Almighty says about that kind of people: [(Alms are) for the poor who are straitened for the cause of Allah, who cannot travel in the land (for trade). The unthinking man accounteth them wealthy because of their restraint. Thou shalt know them by their mark: They do not beg of men with importunity.] (Al-Baqarah: 273)
As for he who gives hidden sadaqah, the process of giving itself provides him with great happiness and purifies his soul. It helps him get rid of selfishness and develop feelings of cooperation with others. It is also a means of protecting his wealth, [for when he gives others, he wins their love, and thus spares himself the influence of their envy.] In essence, giving sadaqah reflects on the giver and benefits him [as much as it benefits the recipients].

Allah Almighty says: [….. And whatever you spend in good, it is for yourselves, when you spend not except seeking Allah’s Face. And whatever you spend in good, it will be repaid to you in full, and you shall not be wronged.)…] (Al-Baqarah: 272)

Furthermore, hidden sadaqah helps its givers get rid of feelings of depression that they may experience. When one gives the poor, one feels deep happiness, especially when one hears them praying for one and expressing gratitude for one.

Contemplate the image Allah Almighty gives in the following verse that describes the example of the one who gives generously in charity: [And the example of those who spend their wealth seeking means to the approval of Allah and assuring [reward for] themselves is like a garden on high ground which is hit by a downpour – so it yields its fruits in double. And [even] if it is not hit by a downpour, then a drizzle [is sufficient]. And Allah, of what you do, is Seeing..] (Al-Baqarah: 265)

Based on the above lines, the psychological analysis of the influence of hidden sadaqah on both the giver and the recipient shows that it extinguishes the humiliation of the recipient and the embarrassment of the giver. It creates between them such an atmosphere of peaceful coexistence that Almighty Allah is pleased with. Moreover, it extinguishes the wrath that Allah Most High may have towards the giver, for there is a divine hadith to the effect that ?the hidden sadaqah extinguishes Allah’s wrath.