Group D Grade 4 5 / Age Limit 11 years

Transcription

1 Group D Grade 4 5 / Age Limit 11 years AKHLAQ TOPIC 1: TAHARAT AND UNCLEANLINESS TOPIC 2: CONSIDERATION OF UNDER PRIVILEGED PEOPLE TOPIC 3: ACQUIRING KNOWLEDGE TOPIC 4: PATIENCE/SABR TOPIC 5: JEALOUSY/ENVY TOPIC 6: FORGIVENESS TOPIC 7: VISITING THE SICK FIQH TOPIC 1: CONDITIONS OF WUDHU TOPIC 2: TA QIBAAT OF ASR SALAAT TOPIC 3: ZIYARAT TOPIC 4: USOOL E DIN TOPIC 5: SALAATUL QASR TOPIC 6 CONTEMPORARY ISSUES: TOPIC 7: FASTING WHEN TRAVELLING TAREEKH TOPIC 1: THE BOYCOTT OF BANI HASHIM TOPIC 2: THE FIRST PEOPLE TO BECOME MUSLIMS TOPIC 3: THE BATTLE OF UHUD TOPIC 4: THE PLEDGE OF RIZWAN TOPIC 5: THE DECLARATION OF BROTHERHOOD TOPIC 6: THE DEATH OF ABU TALIB (A) & BIBI KHADIJA (A) TOPIC 7: THE INVITATION OF ZUL ASHIRA

2 TOPIC 10: TAHARAT AND UNCLEANLINESS To be clean means to be free from dirt. To be Tahir (Pak) means to be pure according to Islam. There is a big difference between these two words. It is always a good habit to try and be Tahir (or pure). Our 8th Imam (A) said: "To be pure and clean is amongst the habits of the Prophets." Also, Prophet Muhammad (S) has said "Cleanliness and purity are part of faith." The opposite of being Tahir is being Najis, and the opposite of Cleanliness is Uncleanliness. One should always try to avoid being both Najis and unclean. There are certain ways Islam explains us to be both Tahir and clean at the same time. These are shown below. Wudhu Islam tells us to wash ourselves before praying. This washing is known as Wudhu. Some of the reasons why we do Wudhu are, a. It keeps us clean, b. It refreshes us and we can concentrate and think clearly. If you dress in new clothes, take a shower and put on some perfume or cologne, you will be clean. Then imagine you go to the toilet and do not wash yourself properly. You might still be clean, but now you are Najis. When we go to the toilet, we should wash away the Najasat first, then we should wash ourselves twice better 3 times to make sure that we are Tahir. It is no good using tissue paper BY ITSELF, because this may make us clean, but it will not keep us Tahir. Akhlaq Page

3 Ghusl Means to clean the body, with the Niyyat of cleaning it spiritually. There are times when Ghusl becomes Wajib, i.e. when you touch a dead body. This means that you have to do Ghusl before you can pray Salaat. Daily Bath Islam is a religion, which not only tells you to keep your soul clean, but to also keep your body clean. You should take a regular bath or shower to keep your body clean.. Washing of Face and Brushing Teeth In the morning when you wake up, you should wash your face and brush your teeth. This makes you feel fresh as well as cleaning the dirt that forms overnight. Prophet Muhammad (S) has said, "Upon you is the brushing of the teeth, for surely it purifies the mouth, and pleases Allah, and brightens the eyesight. Indeed the angels hate the odour from a mouth not cleaned after eating food." Clean Clothing A Muslim should never dress with dirty clothes. This does not mean that you wear your best and most expensive clothes. It means that even if you have one piece of cloth to wear, you should keep it clean. When you wear clothes, you should wear it for yourself, and not for others to look at. Akhlaq Page

4 Cutting Nails You should always cut your nails because they grow very long and can get very dirty. If you have long nails, dirt can get trapped underneath. When you eat, you will be putting that dirt in your food and swallowing it. This is very bad for your health and can lead to many illnesses. Looking After Hair One should always comb his hair with a proper parting. You should never leave your hair messy and unkempt. Prophet Muhammad (S) has said that if you can not look after your hair properly, you should shave it off! This shows the importance of caring for your hair. This does not mean that you spend all your time making sure that each hair is in place. You should make sure that your hair is clean and tidy. One important point about the above is that Islam has told us to keep our bodies clean because a clean body leads to a healthy body. If we do not look after our bodies we will get all sorts of illnesses. If you keep your body clean you will feel good, and fresh. The same way we are told to keep our souls Tahir, since a clean soul also leads to a healthy soul. Akhlaq Page

5 TOPIC 9: CONSIDERATION OF UNDER-PRIVILEGED PEOPLE Under-privileged people are those people who are not as well off as we are. This does not only mean wealth and clothes, it also means people who have physical and/or mental problems. Allah has made everybody for a special reason, He has made some people big, some small, some white and some black... all different types. If you are lucky enough to perfectly healthy, you should not be proud because your body was not made by YOU. It has been made by Allah and so you should thank Allah. "All of you are from Adam, and Adam was from dust." Holy Prophet (S) This shows us that there is nothing to be proud of, we should remember that we are made only from dust. If your body is not perfect, you should not complain because there are many other people with even more problems than you. We should ALWAYS HELP those people who are not as fortunate as ourselves in whatever way we can, and NEVER EVER tease them. If we do this, we are being considerate, if not than we are being very unkind and thoughtless. The secret of being considerate is to pretend you were the other person, and try to see how life would be through his/her eyes. At the end of the day, it is good enough just thinking about the under-privileged, we should DO something to help them. Akhlaq Page

6 TOPIC 3: ACQUIRING KNOWLEDGE This means to try and LEARN and UNDERSTAND what people say to you and use it in the future. This is a very good habit. You can always gain knowledge by: watching what other people do; learning from their mistakes; picking up their good habits; picking up good points from books, television when you watch. ALWAYS BE CAREFUL THAT YOU NOTICE BAD HABITS AND AVOID PICKING THESE UP If someone says something to you, you should do three things LISTEN LEARN Never become proud of having Knowledge. No matter how much you know there is always many times more that you do not know UNDERSTAND Places where we learn are: HOME SCHOOL MOSQUE MADRESSA We should always respect these places, by acting properly and trying not just to learn, but also to enjoy learning e.g., at school, we should respect the teacher, and at the same time try and enjoy doing the work. That way we will progress and have fun at the same time. Akhlaq Page 6.7

7 Once the Prophet (S) entered the Mosque, BEFORE THE PRAYER TIME and he found two groups in the Mosque. In one group, some were reading from the Qur'an while others were praying. The other group was in a corner busy learning. They learnt how they read and write and discussed the teachings of Islam and their application to their daily lives. Looking at both, the Prophet (S) said: "They are both engaged in useful pursuits. But I am a teacher. I shall join the group assembled to learn." And so he sat with the group of students. No matter how much you know there is always many times more that you do not know. There was a King in days long gone by, who was very famous. One reason for his fame was that he had a wise old man for his councilor. The councilor was walking down the road when he was stopped by an old lady, the old said "I have a question for you." The wise old man said "How can I help you?" The old lady asked her question and the wise old man sat down and started to think. He scratched his head and moved one way and then another. Finally he said, "I don't know the answer." The old lady said, "Huh, you are supposed to be the King's wise man, and you can not even answer an old woman's question!" The wise old man laughed and replied "The King pays me for the answers that I DO know, if he was to pay me for the answers that I DO NOT know, all the kingdoms on the earth would not suffice." This shows us that no matter how clever a person is, there is always room for him to improve. Knowledge can be of different kinds, we must always seek knowledge to improve our understanding of things around us. Abu Abdullah (A) has said: "The seekers of (sacred) knowledge are of three kinds, so recognize them by their specific qualities and characteristics. - One kind of them seeks it for the sake of ignorance and dispute. - Another kind seeks it for the sake of domination and deceit. - Yet another kind seeks it for the sake of (improving) understanding and intellect. Akhlaq Page 6.8

8 TOPIC 15: SABR - PATIENCE Allah says in the Holy Qur'an, Sura Al-Baqarah, Ayat 153: " Indeed Allah is with those who have Sabr." In the above Ayat we are told that if we have Sabr (patience) then Allah is there with us, and we know that if Allah is with us then we have nothing to worry about. The Holy Prophet (S) has said: Sabr is in three parts: 1. Sabr in times of hardship - when something goes wrong for you. 2. Sabr in regards to obedience - performing all the Wajibaat correctly. 3. Sabr in regards to disobedience - not committing any Haraam acts The perfect example of Sabr is the life of Prophet Ayyub (A). He was blessed with so much (health, children, wealth, land and sheep). Then Shaitan asked Allah for power over Prophet Ayyub's (A) affairs saying that while Prophet Ayyub (A) had all these blessings he would remain grateful but if they were taken away then he would turn away from Allah. Shaitan then destroyed all of Prophet Ayyub's (A) animals and property and worse of all, he killed his children as well. Then he caused Prophet Ayyub (A) to get a horrible disease, and his people forced him to leave his town. Even with all this hardship Prophet Ayyub (A) remained faithful to Allah, praying and thanking Him for everything. Not only did he have Sabr but also Shukr (thankfulness). The Holy Prophet (S) has said that faith is divided into two halves, one half is patience (Sabr) and the other half is thanksgiving (Shukr). The above hadith tells us that to have true faith in Islam not only should we be patient but also thankful. So next time when something bad happens to you not only should you be patient but also thank Allah because Allah knows best. Once a group of people came to our 4 th Imam, Imam Ali Zainul Abideen (A) and said that they were his Shias. Imam (A) asked them what they did when they got something nice. They replied we say "Alhamdulillah". Imam (A) asked them what they did when something nice was taken away from them. They replied that they got upset then they would come to Akhlaq Page

9 terms with it. Imam (A) asked what they did if they did not get anything. They replied that they did nothing. Imam (A) replied that these were not the actions of his Shia. These actions were the same as the actions of the dogs of Madina. When the dogs were given something they would wag their tails in Shukr (thanks). When something was taken away from them they would bark a little (complaining) and then walk away. When they got nothing they did nothing. Imam (A) continued that Shia are those who say: "Alhamdulillah" when they get something, "Alhamdulillah" when something is taken away and "Alhamdulillah" when they get nothing. COMPLAINING WHEN IN DISTRESS This is the opposite of sabr. It is a bad habit, and is one which takes away mercy from Allah. To complain when misfortune falls upon us, shows that we have little faith in Allah. This is because Allah is testing us to see whether we have patience and forbearance. If we try to overcome the problem, and say Alhamdulillah it was not worse, then we will pass the test. If we don't do anything about it and just complain to Allah, and say "Why me!" and "It's not fair!" then we have failed the test, because Allah tells us in Surah 94, Ayat 6: "Verily, with every difficulty there is relief." This means that no matter what difficulties we have in this world, if we have patience and try our best to remove them, Allah will help us, and we will have relief. Many people have a habit of complaining. This is called whingeing. These are the people who when it is winter, complain that it is too cold, and when it becomes summer, they complain that it is too hot. They will always find some reason to complain or criticise. The important thing to learn from this lesson is that if you are in a problem, you should put in the effort to get out of that problem. If you are sincere, then Allah will help you. It may take a long time, but in the long run, you will be successful if your heart and intentions are in the correct place. Akhlaq Page

10 TOPIC 10: JEALOUSY / ENVY Envy = Covet = to want the same as somebody else has. This is a bad habit because it means that you are not satisfied with what Allah has given you. In the Holy Qur'an (Surah 4, Ayat 32) Allah says: "And do not covet those things which Allah has given as gifts more freely on some of you than on others; for men shall have of what they earn, and women will have of what they earn: But ask Allah for his bounty. For Allah has full knowledge over all things." There are three kinds of people in this world: 1. The first group of people do not pay much attention to the fact that someone is doing better than them or has more than them. They just carry on with their own lives. 2. The second group of people, who when they see other people doing well, themselves try harder to achieve success like their friends. 3. The third group of people are those who do not like to see others doing well and being happy. They wish that something bad happens to others. This way of thinking is called Jealousy and is hated by Allah. Although jealousy and envy are often used together, there is a BIG difference between the two. Whereas envy means to crave someone else's position or property; Jealousy (in its worst form) means not to want something that someone else has, but at the same time not wanting him to have it either. There once was a man who had a farm. His neighbour also had a farm. One day the man saw his neighbour milking a beautiful cow. The cow was giving plenty of milk, and the milk was sweet and tasted excellent. The man did not like it and felt very angry that his neighbour should have such a good cow. Then Shaytan came to the man and asked him what the problem was. The man pointed to the cow and said "Look what a wonderful cow my neighbour has." Shaytan replied, "Is that all, I will give you ten cows like that." The man answered "I don't want even one cow like that, I just don't want my neighbour to have it!" This shows how dangerous jealousy can be. It makes people lose their mind. Akhlaq Page

11 Imam Ali (A) has said: "Jealousy eats up good deeds like a fire consumes wood." We know the way in which dry wood is burnt and consumed by a hot raging fire. That is what jealousy does to our deeds. Jealousy hurts you most of all. It makes you unhappy, ungrateful and selfish. The best example of how much damage jealousy can do we only have to look at what happened with the sons of Prophet Adam (A), Haabil and Qaabil: One day, Prophet Adam (A) asked his sons Haabil and Qaabil to bring a gift for Allah, and whose ever gift was accepted by Allah would be the successor of Prophet Adam (A) Haabil who was a shepherd brought the best animal that he had to give to Allah. Qaabil who was a farmer brought some spoilt corn as he thought to himself that Allah does not eat, so why should he take good corn. Qaabil did not realise that although it is true that Allah does not eat, Allah has told us that when you give a gift to anyone, give the best you can give. Allah of course accepted Haabil's gift, who had given the best he could. This made Qaabil very jealous of Haabil. Qaabil was so jealous that his brother was going to succeed his father that he killed his own brother. Only after he had done such a bad thing did he stop to think and was very sorry for what he had done, but it was too late. So you see when you are jealous you do not think and it serves no purpose. eg. By Qaabil killing his brother still did not make him the successor of Prophet Adam (A) Imam Ali (A) also said: "A jealous person can never be a leader of men." This means that if you have a leader who is jealous, he will always be worried about himself, and will never want anyone else to have anything good. This means that his followers will be badly treated and oppressed, so they will leave him. Akhlaq Page

12 TOPIC 6: FORGIVENESS Forgiveness means to "let someone off the hook". It means to pardon someone for their mistakes towards you. Forgiveness is a very good deed and shows that you have a big heart. Allah tells us in Qur'an, Surah 64 ayat 14: Suratut Taghabun Ayat 14. And if you forgive, and over look and cover up (their ills) then verily God is Oft forgiving, The Most Merciful. This shows us that if you are kind enough to forgive someone who has done something against you, Allah, who is The Kindest of all will also forgive you. Prophet Isa (A) said that you should do to others what you would like them to do to you. This means that if you want someone to forgive your sins towards them, you should first forgive their sins towards you. Imam Ali (A) has said: "A person who has asked forgiveness from Allah, that person is like a new born baby." When a baby is born, it is pure and sinless. Everyone loves it because it has done no wrong, and it has harmed no one. When Allah forgives a person, then that person becomes pure as well. Allah makes his heart and soul as clean as that of a new born baby. Imam Musa al-kadhim (A) has said that: "Your activities are like business with God. If one begs forgiveness for a deed before 7 hours have passed, it is better for you." If you treat your actions as if Allah counts them, then the minute you make a sin, you should seek forgiveness for it before you finish the day. That way, when you go to sleep, at least you know that you have settled all accounts with Allah, and so you can sleep happy and at peace with yourself. FURTHER REFERENCE; ANECDOTES OF REFLECTION PART 3 CHAPTER59 Akhlaq Page

13 TOPIC 7: VISITING THE SICK If you visit someone who is not well, you make them feel happy. Why do they feel happy? The reason they feel happy is that they know you care. This means that the sick person knows that he/she has not been forgotten, and that there is somebody who worries about how they are feeling. There was once an old woman who used to throw rubbish on Prophet Muhammad (S) everyday when he passed her house on his way to the mosque, but he never ever got angry with her. One day when the Prophet (S) passed the old woman's house, any rubbish did not hit him. He stopped and asked the old woman's neighbour if she was all right because she was not there to throw rubbish on him. The neighbour told him that the old woman was not well and she was in bed. So the Prophet (S) went to visit the old woman because it is good to go and see people who are not well. The old woman thought the Prophet (S) had come to tell her off, and she said: "Why did you wait until I was ill to tell me off. Why didn't you come when I was well and strong?" Prophet Muhammad (S) replied to the old woman: I have not come to tell you off, but to visit you because Allah tells us to look after people who are not well. Akhlaq Page

14 The old woman was so surprised that the Holy Prophet (S) was being so kind to her, after she had been so mean to him, that she decided to listen to him and she became a Muslim. This shows how important it is to visit sick people, you can make them feel very happy and when they get better, they will remember you and like you even more. If so, how did you feel when people came to visit you. What did you feel when they brought you presents and gifts? Why did you feel like that? Akhlaq Page

15 TOPIC 2: INTRODUCTION TO WUDHU Wudhu is a special way of washing that makes us spiritually clean. Wudhu is made up of: - washing the face - washing the two arms (right first then left), - wiping (Masah) the front of the head and - wiping (Masah) the upper part of the two feet (right first then left). Wudhu is Wajib [required] for: Wudhu is Mustahab [recommended] for: MASHHAD - IRAN JANNATUL BAQI - MADINA NAJAF - IRAQ Fiqh Girls Page 6A.5

16 TOPIC 2: CONDITIONS OF WUDHU I am doing Wudhu for the pleasure of Allah, Qurbatan ilallah ALL PARTS OF YOUR BODY THAT YOU DO WUDHU ON SHOULD BE PAK Fiqh Girls Page 6A.6

17 TOPIC 2: STEP-BY-STEP EXPLANATION OF HOW TO PERFORM WUDHU Wudhu is divided into WAJIB ACTIONS MUSTAHAB ACTIONS NIYYAT WASH HANDS WASH FACE GARGLE WASH ARMS WASH NOSE WIPING (MASAH) OF HEAD WIPING (MASAH) OF FEET THESE ACTIONS HAVE TO DE DONE, OTHERWISE WUDHU IS BATIL [WRONG] IF YOU DO THESE ACTIONS YOU GET THAWAAB, BUT IF YOU DO NOT DO IT, YOUR WUDHU IS STILL SAHIH [RIGHT] Fiqh Girls Page 6A.7

18 TOPIC 2: WUDHU STEP BY STEP EXPLANATION OF HOW TO PERFORM WUDHU NIYYAT: WAJIB I am doing Wudhu for the pleasure of Allah, Qurbatan ilallah MUSTAHAB ACTIONS: 1. WASHING YOURS HANDS: 2. GARGLING 3 TIMES: 3. WASHING YOUR NOSE 3 TIMES WAJIB ACTIONS: 1. WASHING YOUR FACE: 2. WASHING YOURS ARMS: 3. MASAH OF THE HEAD 4. MASAH OF THE FEET Fiqh Girls Page 6A.8

19 STEP BY STEP EXPLANATION OF HOW TO PERFORM WUDHU First get some water in your right hand and then pour it onto your forehead, where the hair grows. You have to wash the whole length of your face, beginning from your forehead (where the hair grows) and ending at the bottom of the chin. You have to wash the whole width of your face. You do this by stretching your hand out (from your thumb to your middle finger). To make sure that the whole width has been washed, you should pass your wet hand on either side of your face. Washing of the face once is Wajib. It is Mustahab to wash your face twice washing 3 or more times Is Haraam After that is done, you do Masah of the head and this is THE FACE AND HANDS SHOULD BE WASHED FROM ABOVE DOWNWARDS, AND IF YOU WASH IT THE OPPOSITE WAY, WUDHU WILL BE BATIL 249 Then you wash your arms from the elbow to the fingertips. First the right arm is washed with the left hand, then the left arm is washed with the right hand. To ensure that each elbow is washed thoroughly, you must pour water and begin wiping slightly above the elbow. Washing of the arms once is Wajib. It is Mustahab to wash your arms twice, washing 3 or more times is Haraam done by wiping the wet three fingers of the right hand from the middle of the head up to the edge of the hair, without touching the forehead. The water of the face and head should not join. This is done once only Finally you do Masah of the feet and this is done by wiping the wet fingers of the right hand over the upper part of the right foot from the tip of the toes to the ankle. Then the same is done with the left hand for the left foot. This is done once to each foot Fiqh Girls Page 6A.9

20 THINGS THAT BREAK WUDHU: Going to the toilet. Passing Wind [Stomach Wind] Whoops!! Have to do Wudhu again!! Sleeping Becoming unconscious Fiqh Girls Page 6A.10

21 EXERCISE 2: WUDHU Aasiyah and Fatimah were performing Wudhu when their cousin Zahra came over. They quickly wiped their right hands and went to spend some time with her. After Zahra left 20 minutes later, they continued with their Wudhu. Is their Wudhu valid? Why? Masail No. Yes No Because Muhammad was walking to the tap to perform his Wudhu when he stepped on a wet patch on the carpet. His mum confirmed that earlier her friend s baby had made the carpet Najis. He dried his foot with some tissue and said he would wash the bottom of his foot after performing his Wudhu. Is this ok? Why? Masail No. Yes No Because Fiqh Girls Page 6A.11

22 TOPIC 9-11: TA QIBAAT OF DHOHRAIN SALAAT Dua after Asr Salaat: èsåãẠåìãæáñ,â áråxáw éù èuå áê åìãæ áàãq âlåòâ áf åøäãêãb äáèâïðäãâáb â á åoâwéù ètáòãá{ åìãæáñ,â á åëáöéù èèåãã åìãæáñ,â áxåháö éù ákå áq áoåtâ åâb áàââácåsáb ØäãÊãB äáèâïðäãâáb,â áçåtâöéù èacá âj åìãæáñ ãtékäãxâb ákå áq áaeágéoâbáñ ãpåoá åâb ákå áq á^áoá åâbáñ,ãoåtâ åâb,áàåëãçá èuáçå ãê åìãæ CáËãQ CáÆ ÈâÏðäÃÂáB -áàå áâãb âpåòâwábáñ á½âoã å³áxåsáb,áyåêáf éùãb áððâb áù In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the soul which is not satisfied; the heart which does not fear; the knowledge which does not benefit; the prayer which does not rise; the Du a which is not answered; O Allah I ask You for ease after difficulty; for relief after grief; and comfort after distress; O Allah we have no blessing but from You; there is no god but You; I seek Your forgiveness and turn to You. Fiqh Girls Page 7A.17

23 TOPIC 9-11: ZIYARAT Fiqh Girls Page 7A.18

24 TOPIC 7: USOOL-E-DIN: Just as a tree is made up of roots and branches so is the religion of Islam. Usool-e-din = the roots of the religion Furoo-e-din = the branches of the religion Just as in a tree the roots are more important to the tree then the branches, so in Islam the Usool is more important for our Faith then Furoo. If in a tree the branches of the tree were to be chopped off the tree would still live and the branches would grow back slowly, but if the roots of the tree were to be chopped off, the tree would die. Weak roots Dead tree In the same way if one does not fully understand the Furoo (branches) but does them anyway, the religion (Islam) would still live and the understanding would come slowly. Yet if a person does not understand the Usool (roots) then his Faith would die because these are basic beliefs of Islam. Every Muslim has to understand Usool to the best of their ability. Usool-e-din (roots of religion) are 5: Tawheed - Allah is One. Adaalat - Allah is Just. Nabuwwat - Allah sent 124,000 Prophets to guide us. Imamat - Allah sent 12 Imams to guide us. Qiyaamat - The Day of Judgement. EXERCISE 6: - USOOL-E-DIN: Answer the following: Why are the Usools more important to our Faith than the Furoos? Which Usool teaches us that there is only One God? Which Usool talks about the Day when we will be rewarded for all the good things we do in our lives? Fiqh Girls Page 6A.25

25 TOPIC 5: INTRODUCTION TO SALAATUL QASR 7 Conditions to be fulfilled for Salaat-e-Qasr to apply 1. Travelling Distance A traveller should shorten their prayers if the TOTAL distance covered during the journey is 28 miles or more. 2. Town/City Boundary HADDE TARAK KHUS The traveller should be out of the boundary of the town or city. 3. Niyyat Before starting the journey, there must be a firm intention (Niyyat) of travelling 28 miles or more. 4. Purpose of Journey The journey should not be Haraam or for a Haraam purpose. 5. Length of Stay The intention (Niyyat) to stay must be for less than 10 days. The stay of 10 days means staying minimum from: (i) sunrise of 1 st day to sunset of 10 th day; OR (ii) Dhohr of 1 st day to Dhohr of 11 th day. 6. Destination The destination should not be to a place which the traveller has made his/her hometown WATAN. 7. Journey Frequency The travelling is NOT the normal journey which a person does on account of work. When you travel the number of Rakaat you offer for Dhohr, Asr and Eisha is reduced. The table below shows how the different Salaat are affected: The 17 Rakaats are reduced as follows: PRAYER RAKAATS RECITED DAILY RAKAATS RECITED BY TRAVELLER Fajr 2 2 Dhohr 4 2 Asr 4 2 Maghrib 3 3 Eisha 4 2 Total The Niyyat for all the Salaat is the same as usual except that you will add Qasr to it and change the number of Rakaat where required. E.g. for Maghrib: I am praying 3 Rakaat Maghrib Qasr Wajib Qurbatan ilallah E.g. for Eisha: I am praying 2 Rakaat Eisha Qasr Wajib Qurbatan ilallah Fiqh Girls Page 6A.20

26 Rules for travelling in and around London: Below is a map of the City of London. The M25 is London s boundary i.e. HADDE TARAK KHUS. Follow it round with a dark marker so that you can see the M25 clearly. All towns inside M25 are within the City of London. Fiqh Girls Page 6A.21

27 EXERCISE 5 - SALAAT-E-QASR Look up the answers in the Risala and write it down along with the Masail Numbers: Amena forgot to recite her Dhohr & Asr Namaaz before her trip to Isle of Wight and remembered about it at night at their hotel in Isle of Wight. Will she pray Qadha in full or Qasr? Why? Masail No.: Hamida was not sure if she was out of town or not. Will she pray full or Qasr? Why? Masail No.: Captain Hussein is a pilot and therefore tends to travel different parts of the world. How should he offer his Salaat when in different parts of the world? Why? Masail No.: Fiqh Girls Page 6A.22

28 TOPIC 22-25: CONTEMPORARY ISSUES Question: How can we say our obligatory prayers in an aircraft, especially if we do not know the direction of the Qiblah taking into consideration the instability of the floor [because the plane is in motion]? Answer: As for the Qiblah, it is possible to identify its direction by asking the captain or the airhostesses because their answers usually carry validity and are a source of assurance. One should therefore act accordingly. Question: How should we say our Salaat in trains? Is it necessary to do prostration (Sajdah) on something or is it not necessary, in that would bending of the neck be sufficient? Answer: It is obligatory to say Salaat in the usual way where possible. So, one should face the Qiblah in all stages of the Salaat; if not, at least while saying the opening Takbir. Otherwise the condition of facing the Qiblah will be dropped. Similarly, if it is possible to do the bowing (Ruku') and prostration (Sajdah) normally (e.g., in the aisle of the bus or the train), those parts of Salaat should be done normally. But if it is not possible, then one should try to bow normally for Ruku' and Sajdah [for example, from a sitting position on the seat or the berth of the train]. For Sajdah, one has to put the forehead on an item on which Sajdah is valid, even if by lifting that item to the forehead. If bowing normally is not possible, one should just indicate by bending the neck [halfway for Ruku and fully for Sajdah] Question: What is the ruling for a person who travels after noon (Dhohr) during the month of Ramadan while fasting? Answer: [He should complete his fast] and there is no Qadha on him Question: Can I dip my head in water, taking precautions, in the process, not to let water find its way to my stomach? Answer: Yes, you can do that, albeit it is absolutely Makruh Question: While observing fast, can I rinse my mouth with water without swallowing it? Answer: Yes, you can do that. If, however, the intention of rinsing was to seek cooling off and the water found its way to your stomach, you should make up for that day (Qadha). Yet, if you swallowed the water unknowingly, you don t have to do Qadha Question: I did not know whether it will be the start of Ramadhan, and I intend to fast tomorrow. How would this day be treated? Answer: You make your Niyyat as though this day was of Sha ban. If, however, during the day it was announced that it was the first day of Ramadhan, you rectify the Niyyat and your fast shall be in order; i.e. there shall be no need for you to fast instead Question: Would use of a nozzle spray that facilitates breathing invalidate the fast? Answer: If the spray that comes out of the nozzle enters the respiratory tract and not the passage of food and drink, it does not invalidate fast Fiqh Girls Page 7A.38

29 Question: I have heard it from my friends that in a non-obligatory fast, fast can be broken before time, if someone else invites him for meal before the iftar time. I am not sure, if it is right or not? Answer: If fast is non-obligatory (Mustahab) and someone invites you, it is Mustahab to accept the invitation and break the fast Question: Does phlegm, which is developed in the throat, invalidate fast? Answer: It is preferable for the fasting person not to swallow phlegm that has reached the mouth, although it is permissible for him to swallow it. Similarly, it is permissible for him to swallow the saliva that has gathered in the mouth, even in large quantities Question: What is your ruling on washing the teeth with brush and toothpaste? Answer: Washing the teeth with brush and toothpaste does not invalidate the fast as long as the person does not swallow the saliva that has mixed with the toothpaste. However, the lingering flavour or taste of the paste that mixes with the saliva does not affect the fasting Question: Some allergy sufferers use an apparatus which we call an inhalator to assist them in easy breathing. After its placement in the mouth and pressing it, this apparatus emits what is like pressurized gas. Can this apparatus be used at the time of fasting? Answer: Yes. One who uses this (apparatus) remains on his fast and his fast is valid Question: Is the ink that had dried [on our hands, for example] a barrier to perform Wudhu or Ghusl? Answer: If it does not form a mass that would prevent water from reaching the skin, the Wudhu and Ghusl is valid. However, if one has doubt whether it forms a mass or not, it must be removed. Question: Is cream a barrier to water reaching the skin, and if so should it be removed prior to Wudhu and Ghusl? Answer: Apparently the effect left on the skin after it is applied is nothing but just moisture, and so it does not constitute a barrier to water reaching the skin. Question: Some women let their nails grow longer than necessary for beauty. Sometimes a nail breaks up, requiring a cover that must be placed over the broken nail. Knowing that such a cover prevents water from reaching the nail in Wudhu and Ghusl, is it permissible to use it? How should Wudhu and Ghusl be performed with that cover? Answer: Wudhu and Ghusl with such a cover over the nail is not valid; therefore, it is necessary to remove it for ablutions. And the purpose mentioned above for the cover is not justifiable. Fiqh Girls Page 7A.39

30 TOPIC 21: SAUM - FASTING WHEN TRAVELLING 1. Your fast will be broken once you cross the boundary of your hometown. 2. At any place where you pray Qasr, you will not fast. If you have travelled to a place where your stay will be less than 10 days, you will pray Qasr for the prayers of 4 Rakaats, and you will not fast. You will give Qadha later. 3. The people whose job is that of travelling, e.g. pilot, crew, drivers, etc or one who undertakes a journey for a sinful purpose, must fast even while they are travelling, and their prayer will not be Qasr, either. 4. If you travel from the place where you live AFTER the time of DHOHR, you will complete the fast. However, if you travel BEFORE the time of DHOHR, you cannot fast. 5. If a person does not know that a traveller cannot fast and finds out during the fast, his/her fast becomes Batil; however, if s/he does not find out about it until sunset, his/her fast is valid. EXERCISES 18 21: SAUM: VARIOUS MASAILS OF FASTING: Study the following cases and write down the answers. Also include the Masail number from the Risala. The answers must be as detailed as possible. Luqman lives with his wife Raihana, his mother Sakina and his two children Aamina and Hassan Luqman His job involves him travelling at least 3 times a week. He does not fast during the whole month of Ramadhan. a) Is he considered a musafir [traveller] for the purpose of travelling? b) If he is not, does he have to keep Qadha or pay Kaffarra? Fiqh Girls Page 7A.36

31 TOPIC 17: THE BOYCOTT OF BANI HASHIM The chiefs of Quraish were very disturbed to see that the religion of Islam was gaining strength in spite of all their efforts. By now, well respected people like Hamza, the uncle of the Holy Prophet (S), and some powerful men of Quraish had become Muslims. The chiefs could not bear to stand by and watch Islam advancing in this manner and so they held a meeting to plan a way to stop it. They decided to boycott all the Muslims and in this way stop their activities. An agreement was drafted and hung on the walls of the Holy Ka ba, and the community of Quraish was told to act according to it. The agreement stated that: 1. All trade and business with the supporters of Muhammad shall be banned. 2. Any association with them is strictly prohibited. 3. Nobody is allowed to marry their daughters or sons to those of the Muslims. 4. All those who oppose Muhammad should be supported in all circumstances. This agreement was signed by all the chiefs of the Quraish and was put into action straight away. Abu Talib, the uncle of the Holy Prophet (S), pledged the support of the entire Bani Hashim clan to his nephew. He also advised all the Muslims to move out of Makka into a valley in the mountains. Thus, the Muslims moved out of their homes into the place known as the "Valley of Abu Talib", and set up small houses and tents. To protect themselves from a sudden attack from the Quraish, some men were posted as guards. The Muslims were forced to remain in the valley for three years. During this time they suffered terrible hardships. Food was in very short supply, and many had to survive on a single date or less per day. The Bani Hashim were only allowed out of the valley during the special months of Rajab and Zilhaj when fighting was not allowed. Tareekh Page

32 During these times they came to Makka to buy food and other necessities. However some Makkans, like Abu Lahab, made things more difficult for them by encouraging the shopkeepers to raise the price of food so that the Bani Hashim could not afford to buy very much. Throughout their difficult times, the Muslims did not lose heart and remained strongly attached to Islam and the Holy Prophet (S). Finally some of the Makkans began to regret their shameful action against the Muslims, who after all were their relatives. They became ashamed for having signed the agreement and began to look for a solution to the problem. They called a meeting of the Quraish proposing to end the boycott and allow the Muslims to return home. Although Abu Jahl was not in favour of allowing them back, he was outvoted by the rest and had to remain quiet. The chiefs decided to tear down the agreement. When they brought it down from the Holy Ka ba, they noticed that the entire sheet had been eaten away by termites and only the words "In the Name of our Lord" remained. After being informed of the developments by his uncle, the Holy Prophet (S) decided to leave the valley and the Muslims returned to their homes in Makka once again. The patience and reliance on Allah in the face of hardships by these early Muslims is a great lesson to us all. Tareekh Page

33 Now you know The Quraish were being threatened by the activities of the new Muslims and so they drafted an agreement which briefly stated that association with the Muslims by the Makkans is prohibited. The Muslims were advised to move to The Valley of Abu Talib, where they stayed for 3 years suffering many hardships. During the non-fighting months, the Muslims could go to Makka to buy provisions but the Makkans used to make this task very hard for them. The Makkans finally started regretting their actions, and after calling a meeting, the agreement for the boycott of the Muslims was taken down. The Muslims returned back to their homes in Makka. MORAL BOX Through severe difficulties, the Muslims stuck strongly to their faith. We should also do this rather than blaming Allah and turning away from Him when hardships affect us. The Muslims showed complete trust in Allah because they realised that everything is in His power. Allah helps those who put their trust in Him. Tareekh Page

34 TOPIC 13: THE FIRST PEOPLE TO BECOME MUSLIMS When the Holy Prophet (S) returned from the cave in Mount Hira after the first revelation, he immediately went home. As well as his wife Bibi Khadija (A), his young cousin Imam Ali (A) also lived with the Holy Prophet (S) for two reasons: Imam Ali (A) lived with the Holy Prophet (S) because his father Abu Talib could not afford to support all of his four sons and his mother Bibi Fatimah binte Asad had promised to turn over Imam Ali (A) to the Holy Prophet (S), as he had already lost a son. When he reached his home, the Holy Prophet (S) informed his wife about what had happened, and she immediately believed in his mission and became a Muslim. The next person the Holy Prophet (S) spoke to was Imam Ali (A), who was only 12 years old at the time. Imam Ali (A) also accepted Islam on hearing the experiences of the Holy Prophet (S). Thus Bibi Khadija (A) was the first woman to become a Muslim, and Imam Ali (A) the first man. The third person to become a Muslim was Zaid bin Harith, who was the Holy Prophet's (S) freed slave and adopted son. The Holy Prophet (S) received further revelations from Allah and he gradually began to spread the religion of Islam. For the first three years of his mission, he did not make a general invitation to everybody, but selected certain special people who he saw were ready to embrace the religion of Allah. As a result of his limited activity only 30 people became Muslims in these first three years. The Quraish and their leader Abu Sufyan knew what was going on, but they were not bothered by the Holy Prophet's (S) activities at this time. They thought that this new religion would soon die out. During the three years, the Quraish did not harm the Holy Prophet (S), and continued to respect him. In return, he did not openly criticise their idols and remained busy in keeping in contact with his small group of Muslims. The attitude of the Quraish remained relaxed until the day when the Holy Prophet (S) began to preach the religion of Islam openly on the command of Allah. Tareekh Page

35 Now you know Imam Ali (A) lived with the Holy Prophet (S) because his father Abu Talib could not afford to support all of his four sons and his mother Bibi Fatimah binte Asad had promised to turn over Imam Ali (A) to the Holy Prophet (S), as he had already lost a son. Bibi Khadija was the 1 st woman to become a Muslim and Imam Ali (A) was the 1 st man to become a Muslim at the age of 12. Zaid bin Harith, the Holy Prophet (S) s adopted son was the 3 rd person to accept Islam. The Holy Prophet (S) continued to receive revelations and started spreading Islam to selected people after 3 years only 30 people became Muslims. The Quraish leaders were not bothered about the Holy Prophet (S) s activities and continued to respect him. In return, the Holy Prophet (S) did not openly criticise their beliefs. MORAL BOX The Holy Prophet (S) won the trust and respect of the people by showing the best of Akhlaq. Are we fulfilling our duty of being the ambassadors of Islam by also showing good Akhlaq? We should learn from our Holy Prophet (S) and respect everyone including those who do not share our faith, because they are also the creatures of Allah. Living in this country we have an even bigger opportunity to do so. Tareekh Page

36 TOPIC 9: THE BATTLE OF UHUD - PART 1 THE CAUSES: The Makkans were determined to take revenge for their defeat at Badr. Their women could not accept that their brave champions had been so easily killed by the Muslims, and they mocked their men for their weakness. Abu Sufyan wanted to keep the anger of the people high and he forbade any mourning within Makka until they had fully avenged their dead companions. The emotions of the people were further fuelled by some Jews, who composed poems to incite them to war. The final straw was when the Holy Prophet (S) blocked the trade routes of the Quraish to Iraq. The chiefs of the Makkans decided that they now had enough reasons to march against the Muslims. The Quraish traders would regain access for their caravans if the Muslims were defeated, so they agreed to pay all the expenses of the proposed war. THE RESOURCES: Abu Sufyan was aware of the bravery of the Muslims, and he knew that he would have to outnumber them if he wanted to win. He therefore enlisted the tribes of Kanaanah and Saqeef, promising them weapons and full provisions for the journey. A large number of slaves also joined the Quraish army tempted by promises of freedom. Amongst them was Wahshi, an Ethiopian slave. He possessed great skill in the use of the throwing spear, and had been promised his freedom if he killed the Holy Prophet (S), Imam Ali (A) or Hamza. Abu Sufyan managed to prepare a large army of: 700 armour-clad men 3,000 camel soldiers a cavalry of 200 men a group of foot soldiers. This army marched towards Madina and camped at the foot of the hills of Uhud, on 5th Shawwal 3 A.H. The Holy Prophet (S) had already received news of the plans of the Quraish from his uncle Abbas, who lived in Makka. Tareekh Page

37 After consultation with the Muslims he decided to meet the enemy outside the city limits of Madina for three reasons. These were: 1. Hand to hand fighting in the narrow streets of Madina would be very disorganised and the soldiers could not be used together against the enemy. Moreover, once the enemy was allowed into the city, the lives of the women and children would be in danger. 2. The enemy could surround the city and control all roads leading out of the city. Such a siege could break the morale of the Muslims. 3. The Holy Prophet (S) did not trust some hypocrites like Abdullah Ubayy, and feared that they might harm the Muslims from within the city. The Holy Prophet (S) came out to meet the Quraish with 1,000 men at Uhud, 3 miles outside Madina. Abdullah Ubayy, who had wanted to fight in Madina, then deserted the Muslim army with 300 of his men. He gave the excuse that the Holy Prophet (S) had taken the advice of younger men over his own. The Holy Prophet (S) was left with only: 600 Men; 100 Armour-clad men; 2 Horses. QUESTION BOX Could we fight with our Imam, even if we were so outnumbered? Or would we also make an excuse and abandon the Imam? THE BATTLE: The Holy Prophet (S) began to set up his army in fighting formations. 50 archers were posted at a pass between the hills of Uhud to guard the army from any attack from the rear. They had strict orders not to leave their post, whatever the outcome of the battle. The Holy Prophet (S) knew that the Muslims would be worried at being outnumbered in the battle, so he strengthened their morale with an address. He said to them: "It is a difficult task to fight the enemy, and only those who are guided and supported by Allah can remain steadfast. Remember that Allah is with those who obey Him, while Shaitan is the companion of those who disobey Him. Remain firm in Jihad and use it to acquire the blessings that Allah has promised you. None dies in this world until Allah decides." He then told them not to start fighting until orders were given to fight. Tareekh Page

38 On the side of the Makkans, Abu Sufyan had divided his army into 3 parts. The armoured men were placed in the middle. Preparations were now complete and the small band of Muslims stood against the large army of unbelievers, ready to give their lives away for the sake of the defence of Islam. Now you know The Makkans were very angry at their defeat at Badr, and this was part of the cause of the battle of Uhud. When the Holy Prophet (S) blocked the trade routes of the Quraish, the Makkans believed they had enough reason to attack. Abu Sufyan knew the strength of the Muslims and enlisted the help of other tribes. He prepared a huge army for the battle. The Prophet (S) decided to meet the enemy outside Madina, and the armies met at Uhud. The Muslims were very worried because they were greatly outnumbered. Tareekh Page

39 TOPIC 10: THE BATTLE OF UHUD - PART 2 The man who began the Battle of Uhud was Talha bin Abi Talha, a great warrior from the army of Abu Sufyan. He entered the battlefield and challenged the Muslims to individual combat. The challenge was accepted by Imam Ali (A) and very soon Talha's dead body lay on the ground. The standard was taken by his two brothers but they were both cut down by arrows from the Muslims. Thereafter nine people of the Makkan army took the standard, one after the other, but every one of them was sent to Hell by Imam Ali (A). After them, an Ethiopian soldier by the name of Sawaab came to the field. He had a frightening figure and on seeing him none of the Muslims dared to come forward. This man was killed by Imam Ali (A) by a single blow. QUESTION BOX If our Imam wanted help in killing a man that could easily kill us, would we be too afraid of death to help our Imam? Seeing his men being so easily killed, Abu Sufyan ordered a general attack. The two armies met and the air was filled with the sound of weapons. From the side of the Muslims, Hamza, Abu Dujana and Imam Ali (A) gave a heroic account of their valour and began to create chaos in the army of Abu Sufyan. At this time, the Ethiopian slave Wahshi got behind Hamza unnoticed. With a swift and accurate throw, the accursed man managed to pierce the abdomen of Hamza and kill him. QUESTION BOX Wahshi was offered freedom to sacrifice his Akhira. Could any such offer tempt us? The Muslims continued to attack the enemy successfully and the Makkans began to lose heart. After losing a lot of men they decided that they had had enough and fled the battlefield. It was at this point that the Muslims made a grave error that cost them dearly. Instead of following the Holy Prophet's (S) orders and pursuing the enemy out of the battlefield, they lay down their own weapons and started gathering the booty. Thinking that the battle was over, the majority of the archers guarding the passage in the hill left their posts to gather the spoils, against the orders of their leader. One of the Makkan commanders, Khalid bin Walid, was fleeing when he saw the opportunity to attack the Muslims from behind. He gathered his men and launched a furious attack from the rear. Tareekh Page

40 The Muslims were taken so much by surprise that they did not know what to do. In the confusion, their ranks became disorganised. The retreating Makkan forces rallied again and began a fresh onslaught from the front. The Muslim army's standard bearer, Mus'ab bin Umair was killed. He bore a great facial resemblance to the Holy Prophet (S) and so the Makkans raised a cry that the Holy Prophet (S) had been killed. This threw the Muslims into further chaos and utter dismay. Many of their famous personalities were disheartened. Some of the weak hearted like Abu Bakr and Umar bin Khattab threw away their swords saying there was no use fighting when the Holy Prophet (S) was no more. Uthman also fled, running so far away that he returned to Madina after 3 days. On the other hand, many valiant soldiers remained faithful and entered the middle of the Makkan ranks determined to fight to their last breath. This went on until a Muslim saw the Holy Prophet (S) and shouted at the top of his voice that he was still alive. The spirit of the Muslims revived but the Holy Prophet (S) now became the chief target of the Makkan forces. The Makkans attacked him and his two upper teeth were broken by the sword of one of them. He had fallen into a pit where Imam Ali (A) found him and protected him against the continuous furious attack of the Makkans. Other faithful companions, including the brave lady Umme Ammaarah, also prevented the enemy from getting too close to the Holy Prophet (S) and shielded him against the rain of arrows. It was in this battle that the reputation of Imam Ali (A) was confirmed and he was acknowledged as a master in the field of sword fighting. He fought so hard that his sword broke. The Holy Prophet (S) then gave him own sword "Zulfiqar". In appreciation of the bravery of Imam Ali (A) the voice of the angel Jibraeel (A) was heard from above saying, "There is no warrior except Ali; there is no sword except Zulfiqar." The Makkan forces had turned the tables but they were too exhausted to push their advantage either by attacking Madina or by driving the Muslims from the heights of the hills of Uhud. They satisfied their desire for revenge by committing horrible brutalities upon the slain and the injured, cutting off their ears and noses and mutilating their bodies. The brave Hamza was amongst the martyrs. His liver was torn out and chewed by Hind, wife of Abu Sufyan. The defeat of the Muslims was a test for them and through the ashes of the battle they emerged more eager and determined to defend their faith and the cause of Islam. Tareekh Page

41 The Muslims: Lost 70 Warriors in battle; A further 70 warriors wounded Including Imam Ali (AS). The Makkans: Lost 22 Warriors in battle; 12 were killed at the hands of Imam Ali (AS)! Now you know Only Imam Ali (AS) stood up to the challenge of the Ethiopian fighter Sawaab. The slave Wahshi sacrificed his Akhira by killing Hamza, because he wanted freedom. The greed of the Muslims soldiers caused them to disobey the prophet, and this caused them to lose the battle. They went after the booty when they thought the battle was over and did not wait as commanded. The first soldiers to throw down their weapons were the weak-hearted including Abu Bakr, Umar and Uthman. The sincere companions of the Prophet (SAW), fought till the end. When the Makkans began to target the Prophet, they risked their lives to save him. Imam Ali (AS) was recognised as the sincere companion of the Prophet and a master of sword fighting. Even Jibraeel(A) acknowledged the bravery and sincerity of Imam Ali (AS) with his famous words. More than half of the Makkans were killed by Imam Ali (AS). The Muslims lost this battle, but came out more determined to defend Islam. MORAL BOX Temptations of this world can be very strong. Wahshi was tempted by freedom and killed Hamza (A). The Muslims were also tempted by the booty and disobeyed the Prophet (AS). Greed can be very destructive, and the Muslims greed cost them the battle, and almost the life of the Prophet (AS)! Tareekh Page

42 TOPIC 12: THE PLEDGE OF RIZWAAN In 5 A.H. the Holy Prophet (S) received the commandment of Allah making Haj Wajib on all Muslims. In the following year he saw in a dream that he was actually performing the Haj along with his companions. He therefore decided to perform Haj that very year. The Holy Prophet (S) announced to the Muslims that he intended to go for pilgrimage to Makka in the month of Zilqad of 6 A.H. The Muhajireen, who had migrated to Madina with the Holy Prophet (S), were delighted at this opportunity to return to their beloved home town. The Ansar, who were the original residents of Madina, were also keen to undertake this blessed journey. In all, about 1,400 Muslims prepared to accompany the Holy Prophet (S) to Makka. The Holy Prophet (S) left Madina on schedule and sent an advance party to scout the route ahead and to warn him of any threat from the Quraish. He ordered the Muslims not to carry any arms other than swords. Along the journey, the Holy Prophet (S) and his companions put on their Ihram, and chose 70 camels for sacrifice during the Haj. What is an Ihram? QUESTION BOX Meanwhile, the Quraish learned of the advance of the Muslims towards Makka and despatched 200 soldiers to stop them. When the Holy Prophet (S) received word that an ambush awaited them, he asked their guide to take them on a route that would bypass the enemies. Finally, after travelling through rough country, they reached a place where there was a well by the name of Hudaybiya, 10 miles from Makka. Here, the Holy Prophet (S) ordered the Muslims to stop and pitch their tents. He then sent a message to the Quraish that he wished to enter Makka to perform the pilgrimage. He also let them know that he had come in peace and wished to settle matters by discussions. The Holy Prophet (S) then asked Umar bin Khattab, who had not fought the Quraish in any battle, to act as a representative of the Muslims and go to Makka. Umar excused himself, saying that his position was weak. The Holy Prophet (S) therefore sent Uthman bin Affan, who was the nephew of Abu Sufyan, the chief of the Makkans. Because he was related to Abu Sufyan, Uthman was warmly received in Makka. The Quraish told him that he was free to do the Haj himself, but they would not allow the rest of the Muslims to enter the city. Uthman refused to perform the Haj alone, so he was detained in Makka. When Uthman did not return, the Muslims feared that he had been killed. The Holy Prophet (S) said that there was a possibility of battle breaking out, so he took a solemn oath of allegiance from the Muslims that they would support him even in the face of death. This famous allegiance was taken under an acacia tree, and is known as the Pledge of Rizwaan. The event has been mentioned in the Holy Qur'an as follows: Indeed Allah was well pleased with the believers when they pledged their allegiance to you under the tree. He knew what was in their hearts so He sent down peace on them and rewarded them with an immediate victory. Fath, 48:18 Tareekh Page

43 What does Rizwan mean? RESEARCH BOX Soon afterward, Uthman returned from Makka, safe and unharmed. With him was a man called Suhail who was sent by the Quraish with instructions to settle the dispute peacefully. As a result of the discussions between Suhail and the Holy Prophet (S), a peace treaty was signed between the Muslims and the Quraish. The conditions of the treaty were: 1. The Muslims should return to Madina that year without performing Haj. 2. They could return the next year but their stay would not exceed 3 days. 3. The Muslims should not bring any arms with them except sheathed swords. 4. There would be no war between the Quraish and the Muslims for 10 years. 5. Any idolater or Makkan Muslim visiting Madina without permission of his tribe would be sent back to Makka, but a Muslim of Madina going to Makka without permission would not be allowed to return. Any tribe of Arabia would be free to join any of the parties to the treaty and the allies also would be bound by this treaty. QUESTION BOX Why do you think the Muslims were only allowed to stay for 3 days in Makka? At the conclusion of this treaty, the weak-faithed Umar accused the Holy Prophet (S) of selling them short. Although some of these terms seemed to be against the interests of the Muslims, it proved not to be the case. After staying 3 days at Hudaybiya, the Muslims returned to Madina. On the way, the Surah of Fath (Victory), was revealed, which described the treaty as an open victory for the Muslims. The Treaty of Hudaybiya brought welcome peace to Arabia after a long period of unrest. In the 2 years after this treaty, more people accepted Islam than in the whole 19 years since the beginning of the Holy Prophet's (S) mission. Tareekh Page

44 Now you know Haj became Wajib on all Muslims in the year 5 A.H. The Holy Prophet had a dream that he was doing Haj, and as result decided to go on Haj that very year. He intended to go on Haj in the month of Zilqad 6 A.H. About 1,400 muslims joined him, both from the Ansars and the Muhajireen. Along the journey, they wore their Ihram and chose 70 camels for sacrifice. The Quraish found out about the Muslims coming towards Makka and sent 200 soldiers to stop them. When the Muslims found out they took a different rough country route to Makka. They reached a place called Hudaybiya, 10 miles from Makka and pitched their tents. The Holy Prophet sent Uthman bin Affan the nephew of Abu Sufyan (the chief of Makka) in to Makka with a message that the Muslims wanted to come in and perform the Pilgrimage and wanted to settle matters. Uthman did not return so the Muslims were worried he was killed. The Holy Prophet (S) said battle my break out so he took an oath of allegiance from the Muslims of full support till the time of death. This took place under an acacia tree and is known as the Pledge of Rizwan. Uthman returned from Makka unharmed with a man called Suhail who came to settle the dispute. Suhail and the Holy Prophet settled a peace treaty between the Muslims and the Quraish. The conditions were: The Muslims to return to Madina and perform Haj the following year; they could only stay in Makka for 3 days and should not bring any arms with them except a sheathed sword; there would be no war between them for 10 years; and a Makkan Muslim/idolater visiting Madina without permission of his tribe should be sent back; a Muslim from Madina visiting Makka without permission would not be allowed to return. This is called the Treaty of Hudaybiya. On the way back to Madina Sura e- Fath was revealed which described the treaty as an open victory for Muslims. Thereafter there was peace in Arabia and more people became Muslims within two years of the Treaty. MORAL BOX What you plan does not always work out. We always have to remember Allah is the best of Planners. Tareekh Page

45 TOPIC 6: THE DECLARATION OF BROTHERHOOD After his arrival in Madina, the Holy Prophet (S) was faced with a new challenge. For the first time, the Muslims were centralised and arrangements had to be made to run this new Muslim state. The Holy Prophet (S) faced three main challenges. These were: 1. The danger of attack from the Quraish in Makka and other idol worshippers from the rest of Arabia. 2. The presence of the Jews of Madina who lived within and outside the city and possessed enormous wealth. 3. The differences which existed between his own supporters. The Holy Prophet (S) first dealt with the issue concerning the Muslims. There were two main issues: The people who had migrated with him from Makka (Muhajireen) and the local Muslims who lived in Madina (Ansar) had been brought up in different environments and there was a great difference in their thinking and culture. The Ansar themselves were made up of the tribes of Aws and Khazraj, who were sworn enemies of each other and had been fighting for over a hundred years. The first thing the Holy Prophet (S) did was to create peace between the tribes of Aws and Khazraj. He united them on the basis of their common faith in Islam, and told them to forget their old differences. Then, the Holy Prophet (S) turned his attention to the needs of the Muhajireen. These brave Muslims had left all their wealth and possessions in Makka to come with the Holy Prophet (S) to Madina. They had no wealth or property. On the command of Allah, the Holy Prophet (S) established brotherhood between the Muhajireen and Ansar. He paired off each Muhajir with one Ansar and declared them brothers. The generous Ansar gave over one half of their wealth to their new brothers so that they could live comfortably in Madina. QUESTION BOX If our Imam asked us to share everything we owned with someone else, would we do this willingly? Tareekh Page

46 At the end of all the pairings, only Imam Ali (A) was left. He asked the Holy Prophet (S) who his brother would be. The Holy Prophet (S) declared, "O Ali, you are my brother in this world as well as the next." By this simple method, the Holy Prophet (S) ensured the unity of the Muslims and this unity also enabled him to concentrate on the other two problems. The next issue that the Holy Prophet (S) decided to tackle concerned the security for all citizens of Madina from the Jews. He, therefore, drafted an agreement to establish peace between the Muslims and the Jews. The contents of that document represented a great leap forward for the unprincipled Arabs. For the first time, the Arabs were introduced to a constitution that outlined the principles of freedom, order and justice. A part of that agreement is quoted below: In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Most Merciful Anybody from amongst the Jews who embraces Islam shall be entitled to the assistance of the Muhajireen and the Ansar. There will be no difference between such a person and any other Muslim, and nobody shall oppress him or be his enemy. Groups of Muslims should go for Jihad (Holy War) alternately, so that the blood shed in the path of Allah is divided equally. The authority of resolving differences shall always rest with Allah and Muhammad. When the Muslims fight for the defence of Madina, the Jews must pay their share in the expenses of war. The Muslims and Jews are free to practise their law and religion. Lives of neighbours and those who have been granted asylum are like our own lives, and must be respected. No asylum shall be granted to the Quraish or their allies. The signatories of this agreement take joint responsibility for the defence of Madina. When the Muslims invite the Jews to conclude peace with the enemy, they should accept the proposal. The Muslims should also accept any such proposal made by the Jews, except when the enemy is opposed to the religion of Islam. Allah is the Protector of the good and the pious, and Muhammad is His Prophet." Tareekh Page

47 This document was gladly accepted by most people in Madina. The few Jews who rejected it at first also added their signatures at a later date. Having made arrangements to secure Madina, the Holy Prophet (S) could now concentrate on the threat of the Quraish of Makka. Now you know The three main problems that the Holy Prophet (S) faced in Madina: 1. Danger of attack from the Quraish in Makka 2. The presence of the Jews of Madina 3. The which existed between his own supporters. The first thing the Holy Prophet (S) did was to unite the two tribes of the Ansar called Aws and Khazraj because of their common faith in Islam. He then established brotherhood between the Muhajireen and Ansar by pairing off each Muhajir with one Ansar and declaring them brothers. At the end of all the pairings the Holy Prophet (S) himself paired up with Imam Ali (A) and declared, "O Ali, you are my brother in this world as well as the next." Finally the Holy Prophet (S) introduced an agreement between the Jews and the Muslims that outlined the principles of freedom, order and justice. MORAL BOX There is no point in sticking to your petty differences and quarrelling but is better to unite with your Muslim brothers and sisters like the Aws and Khazraj. We should learn from the generosity of the Ansar who shared all they had with the Muhajireen for the sake of Islam. Tareekh Page

48 TOPIC 18: THE DEATH OF ABU TALIB (A) AND BIBI KHADIJA (A) After the 3-year boycott on the Muslims had been lifted, they returned to their previous lives in Makka, and looked forward to improving their condition. However, certain events occurred that year that left the Holy Prophet (S) extremely sad and the Muslims also shared in his sorrow. In that year the Holy Prophet (S) first lost his uncle Abu Talib (A), and then one month later, his wife Bibi Khadija (A). His sorrow and grief knew no bounds and he named this year "Aamul Huzn", the Year of Grief. Abu Talib (A) had been the supporter and defender of the Holy Prophet (S) since the death of his father, Abdul Muttalib. He treated him better than his own sons. In order to protect the Holy Prophet (S) from being murdered by his enemies, Abu Talib (A) used to make one of his sons, usually Imam Ali (A), sleep in the bed of the Holy Prophet (S). Abu Talib (A) believed so much in the excellence of the Holy Prophet (S) that he used to request the blessings of Allah by using his nephew's name. Once, when the Quraish were faced with a terrible drought, they came to Abu Talib (A), begging him to pray for rain. Abu Talib (A) held the hand of the Holy Prophet (S), who was then only a young boy, and raised his head to the skies, saying, "O Lord, send down rain for the sake of this young boy, and favour us with your blessings". This prayer was hardly over when rain began to fall heavily. RESEARCH BOX What is it called when we supplicate to Allah through someone else? What Dua do we recite on Tuesdays in which we do this? When the Holy Prophet (S) declared his mission, Abu Talib (A) stood faithfully by his side, never stepping back from the defence of his nephew. Although Abu Talib (A) began to lose his position amongst the Quraish because of his support for the Holy Prophet (S), he did not for one moment think of asking him to hold back the message of Islam. QUESTION BOX Abu Talib (A) let his position be under threat for the sake of the truth. Would we be too attached to our worldly desires to support the truth? Tareekh Page

49 The actions of Abu Talib (A) throughout his life confirm that he was a Muslim and believed in the religion of Allah. However, some people still claim that he was an unbeliever. This is actually a false accusation because we know that Abu Talib was the one who recited the marriage formula for the Holy Prophet (S) and this can only be done by a Muslim. It is a fact of history that Fatimah binte Asad was one of the first women to accept Islam. She was also the wife of Abu Talib (A), and remained his wife till he died. If he had not been a Muslim, it would have been unlawful for her to remain his wife. It was no wonder that the Holy Prophet (S) missed his uncle so much. Abu Talib (A) had been his guardian for 50 years. In the same year, the Holy Prophet (S) lost his dear wife Bibi Khadija (A), the mother of his beloved daughter, Fatimah Zahra (A). Thereafter, she gave her entire wealth for the sake of Islam. The double tragedy was a bitter blow to the Holy Prophet (S), at a time when he needed the encouragement and support of his loved ones. Now you know In the year after the boycott, the Holy Prophet (S) lost both his uncle Abu Talib (A) and his wife Bibi Khadija (A) and he called that year "Aamul Huzn", the Year of Grief. Abu Talib (A) had been his supporter and defender. Bibi Khadija, who married the Holy Prophet (S) at the age of 40 was the first woman to become a Muslim and gave her entire wealth for the propagation of Islam. She stood by him with firm faith till her death. Tareekh Page

50 TOPIC 14: THE INVITATION OF DHUL ASHIRA Three years after his mission had started; the Holy Prophet (S) received the following revelation from Allah: And warn your nearest relatives... Shu'ara, 26:214 When this command came, the Holy Prophet (S) called Imam Ali (A) and instructed him to arrange a meal and to invite the sons of Abdul Muttalib so that he could deliver to them the words of Allah. Following the invitation, some forty men from the children of Abdul Muttalib gathered near the mountain of Safa. Amongst them were the Holy Prophet's (S) uncles Abu Talib, Abbas, Hamza and Abu Lahab. The Holy Prophet (S) commanded Imam Ali (A) to serve the food to the guests. Imam Ali (A) kept the food - which was hardly enough to feed even one man - in front of the assembled guests. The Holy Prophet (S) blessed the food with the Name of Allah and asked the people to eat. Every one of the forty guests had his fill and yet the food remained the same. After the feast was over, the Holy Prophet (S) wished to speak to the assembly, but Abu Lahab said to the people that the Holy Prophet (S) had displayed great magic and so the people all left. The next day, the Holy Prophet (S) asked Imam Ali (A) to make the same preparations as before, but again the same thing happened. On the third day, the Holy Prophet (S) again invited the same group for a meal. This time, he stood up immediately the eating was over and said to the gathering: "O sons of Abdul Muttalib! I swear by Allah, besides Whom there is no god, that I have been sent by Him as His Messenger. O my relatives! One day you will die as if you were going to sleep and some time later you will be brought back to life to be judged according to your deeds. The good people will live in Heaven, while those who are evil-doers will be put in Hell forever. No human being has ever brought a better thing for his people than that which I have brought for you. My Lord has ordered me to invite you towards Him. Which one of you will support me so that he may become my brother and successor after me?" When the speech of the Holy Prophet (S) reached this point, the entire assembly remained silent. Suddenly Imam Ali (A), who was only 15 years old, stood up and said, "O Prophet of Allah! I am prepared to support you." The Holy Prophet (S) asked him to sit down, and repeated the question three times. Each time, however, none but Imam Ali (A) stood up to support him. After the third time the Holy Prophet (S) hugged Imam Ali (A) and holding his hand up high, he said, "People! This young man is my brother and successor amongst you. Listen to his words and follow him." Tareekh Page