Quran Talks...
This blog aims to spread the authentic teachings of Islam and to promote the learning of the Holy Quran. Contributing are sisters studying under Dr. Farhat Hashmi at Al Huda Institute Canada, who will be sharing first hand accounts of their learning.

Bismillah

Monday, August 20, 2007

My Journey with the Qur'an

My Journey with the Quran

I always wanted to learn the Quran. At collage I used to ask my teachers how I could understand it, I used to call ISLAMIC UNVERSITY to ask whether they had some course that I could join. But then I thought ---- just ask ALLAH (SWT). It’s true guidance that I want and Allah would make ways InshALLAH. So I prayed and prayed, after marriage I came here and the TQ course started and I enrolled. Dr Farhat was our teacher. May Allah (s.w.t) give her jazaai khair.

The journey started. Most enlightening. At times increasing the love for Allah (s.w.t) and at other times increasing fear of the Supreme Being. How the Quran purifies hearts is marvelous--the strong words catch us --its impossible to escape and finally one ends up submitting to Allah (s.w.t) and that’s the most beautiful part as one achieves a state of tranquility upon the submission or correction of ones own fault. No doubt, it’s A MIRACLE. The way Allah (s.w.t) makes us think--to use our brains. And as one does so, he ends up glorifying ALLAH (s.w.t.). Although we finished the course but its only through the desire of knowing more of Quran, showing more gratitude and practicing more TO GAIN THE PLEASURE OF ALLAH (s.w.t.) inshaAllah.

SubhanAllah---Quran is the biggest blessing---may Allah increase us in our knowledge. Ameen

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


Memories of Al Huda

The time has come, finally we have to part
I knew this course will end, right from the start
What I did not know, how difficult it will be
To part from the ones, I everyday see
This love between us, is not an ordinary one
For Allah’s sake, I love each and everyone
We smiled and laughed, together in class
We sighed and wept, when we heard the Qur'an
The presence of Angels, for sure was felt
Recitation of the Qur'an, our hearts did melt
Our Tajweed improved, day by day
Alhamdolillah we say baareek e and not anymore a
We open our mouths to read, as never before
Our madds are long, even Jaiz is four
We did Rakooh, as well as Sajood together
We fixed our Salah—I hope for ever
By joining our feet, our hearts became close
We corrected each other, without remorse
Asma e Husna, and Asma e surah of the Qur'an
We recited them together, and became good at last
In our Aqeeda class, we were clearly taught
To depend on Allah, and only his help sought
HIS greatness at all times, in our hearts should dwell
On HIS signs all around us, we should reflect
We benefited, from the Grammar, we learned
We should be grateful, our Teacher was concerned
Don’t be content, with what you have learned
Make yourselves better, for perfection do yearn
Allah gave us the honour, to be HIS ambassadors
Don’t let petty setbacks, make you surrender
We are an army of Muslimas, strong and firm
When it comes to protecting our Deen, we should be Stern
Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala’s name, we have decided to Exalt
Nothing will stop us, we’ll overcome our faults
In any situation, never let go of your Akhlaq
Maintain it always, it should for ever last
Please Sisters, don’t give anyone a chance to say
Are these the ones, who used to go to Al Huda everyday?
The Qur'an and the Sunnah, hold on to it tight
Alhamdolillah, now we understand it, and know wrong from right
Haraam and Halaal, in our minds is so clear
Refrain from Haraam, and only Allah do fear
Honour your dear ones, and any Muslim you meet
As well as Non-Muslims, you might meet on the street
Show by your actions, that Muslims are the Best
Convey with Hikmah, and Allah will take care of the rest
My sisters young, InshaAllah you’ll make a difference in this world
If you’re sincerely committed, to you will people turn
Maintain your dignity, with proper Hijaab and Hiya
In obedience to Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala, and not for Riya
This life, can at any time, come to an end
In Akhira, only on our good deeds, we can depend
The blazing fire, or the Gardens Eternal
This Dunya, for the Akhira is a rehearsal
Without the Qur'an, it is so easy to go astray
May we remain steadfast, for this we should pray
We are fortunate to be admonished, while we still have time
I’m Grateful to Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala, and Ustazah of mine
The efforts of our Teachers, Group Incharges and the Staff
Was greatly appreciated, InshaAllah with Allah is their reward

This parting is difficult but I hope for the best
In Jannah, InshaAllah, I hope to meet, and forever dwell

- Fakhri Hameed (Ottawa)


My Journey

It all began just over 20 months ago. I was finishing up with exams after completing my second year of university. I had the next four months off and my mother told me that there was no chance that I was going to sit at home while she was going to be taking classes at Al-Huda. Basically I had to join because I had no other way out. I was incredibly nervous because I always hated to attend Urdu lectures and when I heard that the entire course was going to be in Urdu, my mood had gone down the tube!

Once August came around, I knew that this is what I wanted to do. I wanted to devote myself to the Qur'an fully! But I knew that I had to go back to university and finish off what I had already started. I thought about it for a while, and I knew that if I took the year off from school there was no chance that I would ever go back again. So I decided that I would do the course after I would finish school. Then came our last day before our break and when it came to saying good-bye to our then group incharge Taimiyya, it became extremely difficult to tell her what I had decided, I was really embarrassed. But she said something to me that day that changed me; she said that I shouldn't break my connection with the Qur'an and that I should still continue doing it on the side. That’s what I did; I came back to Al-Huda once the break ended. I was now a full time student at Al-Huda and at York Uni. When people asked me how will you manage it I just replied that I've put my trust in Allah, and I know He will make everything that comes in my way extremely easy. Even the whole challenge of listening in Urdu and translating everything that I heard into English became a breeze!

Alhamdulillah, I finished the course and I'm still in university. Staying in the course was the best decision that I have ever made. The Qur'an is the best thing that anyone can hold on to. Its gives the best advice, the advice no parent can give to their child. It holds all the answers that everyone is looking for. It’s the Glorious Book, the Book of Allah, His words.

I can't seem to thank Allah enough. To Him I am so grateful. He was able to provide one of the best teachers that I have ever come across. He was able to introduce me to the best people I have ever met, and most of all I am grateful to Him the most because now I can understand what He is trying to convey to mankind through His book. Alhamdulillah, thank you Allah!

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)


Dearest Ustaza assalaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu!
May Allah bestow great barakat on you, your family, your present and past students and the cause for which you have dedicated yourself, on the occasion of this takmeel-e-Quran. Alhamdulillah, we were with you throughout the night at 26 B, feeling the emotion, the joy and the sorrow that is inevitable when we come to the end of each reading.

Allah’s words fill us with hope and fear, and the only reassurance comes from praying once again that He who is Merciful and Almighty will lead us along this Straight Path again, and again and again till we die, and meet Him with bowed heads and overflowing eyes and hearts, because there is no rest till we return to Him. May Allah forgive our sins and cover us all with His vast Rahmah (Mercy) —Ameen.

Alhamdulillah, the simplicity and normal routine of the class felt so right. The last class is one in which the teacher and staff are, in a way, handing over a burden of responsibility, and the students are overwhelmed by the weight that has been placed on their shoulders. It is such an emotional moment but if it is treated like a “function,” the hustle and bustle of guests and the distraction of organizing places, shoes, food etc. means that many people will be too busy to even say a little prayer for themselves.

I was reading a book called “Even Angels Ask” by Jeffrey Lang which is useful for people doing dawah, because he tells us what converts find disturbing in the Muslim community. But what he writes about the Quran is beautiful. At one point he says that the Quran is that unique Book in which the reader often begins to feel that, in fact, the Quran is reading him. This is so true and Allah’s Words reach each and every one of us in a totally different way. SubhanAllah
After the dua we moved to 2A and had a delicious sehri of parathas and omelettes and other goodies. We stayed a while after fajr prayer till there was enough light to drive home.
May Allah reward you for giving us these memorable moments; I only wish that the time difference had not prevented more people from sharing the experience. But Allah gives whatever He wills to whomever He pleases, and I thank Him for giving me this night.
Please convey my best wishes to everyone. With love and gratitude to you.

Wassalaam
- Ayesha


What I learned from the Quran

There is a lot to learn from the Quran, it teaches all the basic etiquettes of life, the Huqooq-al-Ibaad and the Huqooq-al-Allah (Rights of People and Rights of Allah). I have noticed some changes in me which is what I feel I have learned from the Quran.

Patience, being content with and grateful to what Allah has granted me whether it is against or according to my wishes; sometimes I do go out of the track, respect for parents, importance of Salah - before reading the Quran I used to skip many salahs that I'll pray afterwards, but now Alhamdulillah there is this constant reminder of salah within me- try my best not to engage in useless talk...before I used to find any talk related to Islam or Quran as boring but now Alhamdulillah I can talk about it for hours. I feel that fear of Allah has entered my heart but still have a long way to go to achieve that specific level of fear and love of Allah. Be among the Saliheen, Muhsineen not among the hypocrites - what ever deed we do, our focus should be to please Allah, not people. Tawakul on Allah - I think tawakul has made many things easy for me- I think tawakul and fear of Allah play an important role in increasing Iman therefore may Allah increase our Iman and make us do those deeds that please Him. Ameen

- Sarah Imitiaz (Mississauga)


Bismillah

Did He not find you lost and gave you guidance?” (93:7)

This verse was revealed 1427 years ago for our beloved Prophet, Muhammad, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him. But look at it today in the 21st century; apply it on yourselves on this day when you are finishing the first step of understanding the Book of Allah. Every time we read this verse our eyes need to shed tears out of gratitude to our Rabb. And out of repentance for we can never give Him, His due right of respect and obedience.

“They do not render to Allah the homage due to Him; in fact Allah is the One who is All Powerful, All Mighty.” (22:74)

Congratulations to all of you for completing this task for the sake of Allah (s.w.t.). May Allah increase you in beneficial and sound knowledge and increase the taqwaa in your hearts. Ameen. But remember that this may seem like the end of a beginning. But in reality it is the beginning of another end. This is not the last day of your journey. This is the first day of your conscious journey towards Allah (s.w.t.). The only way we can truly show Allah (s.w.t.) our gratitude is by using this knowledge and spirit, which He has given to us, for His deen, Our Deen. We need to own it. We have abandoned this religion for too long. It’s our most valuable possession. By it getting hurt, we need to feel the pain. The pain that will make us do something for the sake of its appraisal. Not like the rest of the ummah unfortunately who either “say and don’t do” or “don’t even say it”.

I wish you all a very successful life in the hereafter and in this world. And for sure, life hereafter takes precedence over the life of this world. Ustazah once sent all the group incharges this hadith. “He who loves his present life, does damage to his Hereafter, and he who loves his Hereafter, does damage to his present life! So prefer what is lasting, to what is transitory.”

wassalam
- Sarah Tajammul

My journey with the Quran

With All Glory, Praise, and Thanks to Allah (s.w.t.), I was able to come from California to do this Taleem-ul-Quran course in Toronto. Alhamdulillah, I am grateful to my parents for raising me with the teachings of the Deen and realization and importance of learning more. It is only with the help of Allah that I was able to manage the course with the four children that Allah has blessed me with. When I arrived they were 9 months, 2 1/2 years, 6 years, and the oldest was 8 1/2 years old. Allah made it possible for my mother to come and do the course along with me.

My mother staying with me helped me out a lot. My husband needed to stay in California, because of work. He came, helped us settle down, visited whenever possible and Alhamdulillah supported me in many ways throughout the course. Allah sent support in many other forms also; my husband's parents, brother and sister watched the 2 older kids for three months until they finished school and supported us willingly when we needed it.

My father agreed to send my mother, and he and my brothers stayed home patiently managing things with out her. My sister took care of the cooking and other things for my father and brothers while managing her own family of 6 and also taking the same TQ course online, Alhamdulillah.

Before arriving to Toronto Sisters Mubeen and Nasreen were both a great encouragement over the phone. When I showed concern about different issues, both of them told me to just take the step and everything will work out, InshaAllah.

During the course Rahat Baji was of great support, as she managed the office with the kids in the same room and encouraged me a lot. Many other teachers and friends were very helpful. The study groups we had were also very beneficial. This really helped me realize that if you intend to do something for the sake of Allah, regardless of your situation, Allah SWT will give you the ability and the support in many different ways to help make it possible.

When I went to the health office in Toronto to get my heath card and told them I was here temporarily to get an Islamic Education, I was asked, "Why did you travel so far to learn about your religion?" My friends often ask me the same question.

To me, there are many things that make this course unique;
1) The main course material comes directly from Allah SWT-- The Quran
2) We are taught to connect ourselves directly to Allah SWT- (not to any leader, teacher, group, organization etc.)
3) The things we are taught are based on evidence from the Quran and Sunnah- (not an opinion of a certain person or group of people)
4) The Quran is explained in the context of our lives, with examples of how we can practically implement it (not just a lot of information to become more 'knowledgeable').
5) There are many other subjects such as: Uloom-ul Quran, Uloom-ul Hadith, Tajweed, Grammar, Aqeeda, Prayer, Zakat, Fasting, Hajj, Comparative Religion and many other things which help you get a good overview of Islam and develop the thirst to learn more.
6) Character building is focused on, as the topics keep coming up in the Quran. The subject Husna Akhlaq, based on the Hadith of the Prophet (saw), is also a great method used to help build character.
7) The special needs of people are taken care of -for example, a separate room is provided for mothers who may need to bring their babies to class. (Without this blessing I wouldn't have been able to come to class)

I learned many things throughout this journey with the Quran:
- I learned the important role the Quran plays in our lives, and the importance of keeping a continuous connection with it.
-I learned the extreme importance of making sure you are doing things to please Allah alone- not for others to appreciate you. Also to do things in the correct way, the way that Allah SWT has taught us through the Prophet (saw)
- I learned to concentrate on my own faults and overlook others' mistakes.
- I learned to not be biased against others, and to not judge people and give them high status because of their wealth, looks, etc.
- I learned the responsibility of practicing the Deen we are blessed with, and sharing it with others.
- I learned the importance of good company/ good friends.
- I learned to think in a positive way about things and leave the negative.
- I learned that we cannot do anything ourselves unless Allah wills and grants us the ability to do it.
- I learned the reality of this life, the hereafter, and of being accountable of every intention, action, saying, etc. which I never realized before, in the true sense.
........ And much more

The Quran has been a great companion on this journey. Many times I would think about asking Ustaza a question about something, and it would be answered in the next lesson or within the next few days. As the problems came up.... the Quran gave the solutions. Most of all, the Quran helped me develop a way of thinking which Alhamdulillah has already helped me go through a lot of situations in a much better way than I would have before. All the confusion inside seems to be more clear. My purpose in life is now clear, Alhamdulillah. These are just some of the many things I learned from the Quran.

May Allah grant Ustaza and her family the very best in this world and the hereafter for all of her efforts in explaining this Word of Allah in a way which has touched our hearts. May Allah forgive all of our shortcomings and give all of us the ability to practice what we have learned and to keep a continuous connection with the Quran throughout our lives. Ameen

- Ayesha Baig (California)



Looking back at the 20 months that I had spent at Al-Huda gaining the knowledge of Quran has shown me that if Allah wills He can join people towards the Quran, Who can show them His path and give them an opportunity to understand the Quran. When this course started in April 2005 my mother asked me if I could join it as well but as usual I made excuses that I have university and I'll be entering the 3rd year and it's going to be hard and I don't want to stay back a year and so on. On the other hand my mother in law also wished if I could join the course and while convincing me one day she started crying so in order to make her happy I decided to join the course only for the summer. But when the summer ended I didn't want to leave the Quran and go back to University. The Quran from which I was running away before, now I was running for it to get most of it.

I feel that Allah made ways for me to stay in the course. During the summer period I had also applied for accounting specialist program because becoming a chartered accountant was one of my biggest dream and passion for a very long time. I worked really hard to get into that program but in Aug when the results were announced I was rejected by 0.06 decimal points. It was a complete shock for me and I spent my entire day crying trying to figure out of what went wrong. At that time I didn't realize that Allah wanted me to understand the Quran which was more important than becoming a CA. If I would have gone for that program then I wouldn't have been able to stay for the course. I was ungrateful at that time but now Alhamdullilah I’m really grateful to Allah that He has given me a great blessing. Then I switched my major to Human resources and alhamdullilah I continued my university along with the Quran course and Allah helped me out from different ways that I didn't even imagine. Many people asked me out of astonishment that how do I cope up with two things - obviously my university grades would have gone down because it's very hard and so on but every single time I replied, Allah helps me out and Alhamdullilah during this period I noticed that even though I was not putting a lot of effort I used to - I was getting good grades in school. With this I felt that my Tawakul (trust) on Allah started to become strong. I used to get tensed up on little things and become impatient but it is the Quran that taught me to be patient and leave things on Allah. Alhamdullilah I’ve seen it that the moment I left things on Allah, the next day things were made easy for me.

Alhamdullilah I completed the course and I didn't lag behind in University but I still feel that I wasn't able to fully commit myself the way other people did in the Quran class. On it's completion I was in a total shock wondering that is it me who has actually completed the journey of Taleem-ul-Quran where as on the other hand I had this fear inside me that I cannot fool around like an ignorant person wasting my time in worldly things. Alhamdullilah I'm grateful to Allah that He gave me an opportunity to understand the Quran and learn from the best teacher and meet such wonderful people - now I have realized that good friends and good company counts the most in shaping a person's personality and increasing his/her Iman- Now since we have completed the course, my only dua is that may Allah give us the istiqamat (steadfastness), make us do the amal (because an aalim is that person who does the amal) and strengthen our tawakal. Ameen

- Sarah Imitiaz (Mississauga)


Walking with the Quran in my heart

When situations don’t turn out the way I like them I remember that it is Allah who is the All Wise and All Knowing


When I yell or laugh really loud I remember that the worst of the voices is of a donkey

When I am too lazy to sit and drink water I remember that if I want Allah to love me and forgive me my sins I must follow His messenger (SAW)

When I have regrets guilt I remember to go seek Allah’s forgiveness and to praise Him

When I get angry I remember what the Prophet (SAW) suggested: “when you get angry, BE QUIET”

When a calamity hits me I remember that I must seek Allah’s help with patience and prayer.

When I am hurt and want to cry, I remembered instead how Nuh (AS) and Ayyub (AS) went and laid out their affairs in front of Allah

Whenever I get a chance of doing a good deed, I remember the prayer of Musa (AS) “O my lord! Truly I am in need of any good that you do send me!”

When ever I receive what I love, I remember that my Lord hears all invocations and I must be grateful.

Whenever Satan whispers to me I remember to seek refuge in Allah

When I fear the tortures of the grave I remember to read Surah Mulk

When ever I fear the dim light on the day of judgment I remember the invocation taught to me in the Qur’an : “O our Lord complete for us our light…”

When ever I am weighed with a burden I think I can not handle I remember Allah never burdens a soul more than its capacity

Whenever a chance to do a good deed comes and I decide to leave it for someone else I remember “The Foremost ones” those who never think twice about doing a good deed.

Quran was sent a guide. Not only for the reward, blessing.

- Sada Mohsin (New York)

Sunday, August 19, 2007

Reflections of December 28, 2006

Man is in loss...

By time, Indeed, mankind is in loss, Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience. [Al-Asr: 1-3]

If I believe, if I do good deeds, if I enjoin another with the truth and patience, I can free myself from loss!

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga
)


Surah Al-Fil

Have you not considered, [O Muhammad], how your Lord dealt with the companions of the elephant? Did He not make their plan into misguidance?And He sent against them birds in flocks, Striking them with stones of hard clay,And He made them like eaten straw. [Al-Fil:1-5]

Nothing can outmatch the power of Allah.

- Maryam Hameed

Reflections of December 27, 2006

Speaking of the Earth

That Day, it (earth) will report its news [Zilzal: 4]

Everything I do in this world is noted. I may not be aware of it at the moment but it is definitely being written down. On the Day of Judgment, do I want the earth to speak against me or for me?

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)


Life of this World


And violent is he in his love of wealth. (8) Does he not know,- when that which is in the graves is scattered abroad (9) And that which is (locked up) in (human) breasts is made manifest- (10) That their Lord had been Well-acquainted with them, (even to) that Day? (11) [Al-Aa'diyaat: 8-11]

Until we sacrifice what we love most in this Dunya, we will not be able to achieve success in the Akhirah.

- Maryam Hameed

Friday, August 17, 2007

Reflections of December 26, 2006

Deen

And they have been commanded no more than this: To worship Allah, offering Him sincere devotion, being true (in faith); to establish regular prayer; and to practice regular charity; and that is the Religion Right and Straight. [Surah Al Bayyinah: 5]

There are two types of ways: 1) the correct way and 2) the innovations
Which one am I on? Does it please me and my Rabb? Is this right? What is it that I am doing wrong? What can I do to correct myself...and when should I correct myself?

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)

Reflections of December 22, 2006

Relief

With every difficulty is ease. We should be grateful for Allah for everything that comes our way even if its hardship because if we are sincerely for Allah, He will create relief for us in everything.

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)

Reflections of December 21, 2006

A content soul

Let’s make sure, before every word we say and all our intentions and actions is what should please Allah (s.w.t). Before going to bed, check ourselves. If we made mistakes, accept them and repent and make sincere intention of not repeating it again--InshaAllah. Making improvement every day, so that when we die we are in peace with a content soul.

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


A Brand New Day

Every day we are blessed with the gift of life, Alhamdulillah. But are we ever grateful? Do we ever think that perhaps we should change the way we are and fully submit to our Creator, Al Khaliq? Everyday Allah gives us the opportunity to mend our ways, everyday He gives us the chance to repent and obey Him the way He has commanded us to do so. When will we jump at this opportunity?

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)

Reflections of December 20, 2006

Purification of the Soul

Today, I was clarified the ways to attain Tazkiyah i.e. purification of the soul.
1-Tazkiya related to Allah (s.w.t); where we should purify ourselves from all sorts of shirk. With Muslims, it’s the minor shirk about which they should be careful.

2-Tazkiya related to Messenger PROPHET Muhammad (s.a.w.); In this we should purify deen from all the extras i.e bida’ats (Innovation)

3-Tazkiya related to our fellow beings; this would include keeping our heart clean from hatred, enmity, jealousies, dishonesties, lying, backbiting etc.

Doing Tazkiya would surely bring us closer to Allah (s.w.t) --- A key to success, InshaAllah.

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Reflections of December 19, 2006

One who Toils

See how a day goes by---wife wakes up her husband and kids. Breakfast is prepared. Meanwhile everybody gets ready for office and school. Mom and dad would have their breakfast from Tim Hortins because there is no time at that moment. They drop the kids to school and go to their jobs. Daddy does more hours so he can be paid more. Then all can go to vacation in the summer. And mom with her pay can get a beautiful crystal piece for decoration in the house which she has been wanting for such a long time. (Wonder when she gets to see it when she is always busy). There should be another car also. Job time is over---now mom does some shopping for kids as they wanted some things for school. Daddy is off and comes to pick her up. It’s almost 7:00 pm now as they go back. Kids are waiting ---there were only some sandwiches to eat---so mom prepares the dinner quickly. At around 9:00 pm some neighborhood children come to study with mom---she makes good money from it, which she is saving for the car.
Ask this family their aim in life---"we have no time to think about it” would be the reply.
An aimless struggle leading nowhere
May Allah (s.w.t) give every one guidance. Ameen

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


This World or the Everlasting Reward

So announce to them a painful punishment (24) except those who believe and do good; for them is a reward that shall never be cut off. (25) [Al-Inshiqaq: 24-25]

What do I want to gain from the deeds of this dunya? I want to gain an everlasting reward and be amongst the righteous ones in Jannah.

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)

Reflections of December 18, 2006

Cheaters!!!

Surah al Mutaffifeen came across to me as a surah which wasn't that big of a deal when I was growing up. However when the tafsir was displayed before my eyes I came to understand that this is in fact a very important surah. Cheating is something which we take very lightly, yet those who cheat even if it’s as small as an atom will be held accountable.

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)

Reflections of December 16, 2006

The Honourable Quran

The Holy Qur'an is very honourable as it is written in surah Abasa: 13-16:

[It is recorded] in honored sheets, Exalted and purified, [Carried] by the hands of messenger-angels, Noble and dutiful.

yet we take it so lightly, as if it were an ordinary book!

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)

Reflections of December 15, 2006

Responsibilities of a Da'ee
  • To establish the link of people with Allah (s.w.t) and to make this relation strong.
  • To purify souls (i.e. to correct ones thoughts and deeds.)
Purification

How can we stop ourselves from wrong desires and thus purify ourselves.
  1. To have fear of Allah (s.w.t).
  2. To work upon achieving pure faith---no major or minor shirk.
  3. Avoid sins, even doubtful things.
  4. Recognize those thoughts and acts which spoil our good deeds and remove them. (E.g. thinking oneself as pious or praying speedily)
  5. To have a sense of accountability before ALLAH (s.w.t).

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


The Departing of the Soul
By those [angels] who extract with violence And [by] those who remove with ease [An-Naazi'aat: 1-2]

The first few verses of surah An Naazi'aat really woke me up. To learn that at the time of death the soul is taken out in different ways put me in awe. The comparison between the extraction of the disbelievers and the believer’s soul really made me think that if my soul was to be extracted at this second, which category would I fall into. Do I want my soul to depart from me violently or do I want it to depart from my body gently? It’s really up to me and my actions! These verses were truly a wake-up call for me.

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Reflections of December 12, 2006

Indeed, the righteous will drink from a cup [of wine] whose mixture is of Kāfūr, A spring of which the [righteous] servants of Allāh will drink; they will make it gush forth in force [and abundance]. They [are those who] fulfill [their] vows and fear a Day whose evil will be widespread. And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [Saying], "We feed you only for the countenance of Allāh. We wish not from you reward or gratitude. Indeed, We fear from our Lord a Day austere and distressful." So Allāh will protect them from the evil of that Day and give them radiance and happiness And will reward them for what they patiently endured [with] a garden [in Paradise] and silk [garments]. [Al-Insaan: 5-12]

Gratefulness and Patience

Make a gratitude journal... where you write five things daily for what you are grateful for from that day... InshaAllah this will help your sense of gratitude grow

- Nabila Naz (New Jersey)


Gratefulness and patience are just like the two wings of a bird. Both are required for flight. Imagine a bird with one wing missing---would it be able to fly?

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


CAN YOU COUNT THE BLESSINGS ALLAH HAS BESTOWED UPON YOU?

- Faiza Bano (Texas)


Gratefulness and patience - the wings of Iman. A believer is not complete without Iman. In the walks of life, a believer suffering a lot flies with the power of gratitude and patience. These two qualities keep the believer high in the air with success after success. Both qualities are needed, if one isn’t present, the success rate is not the same. A believer calling people to Allah needs both patience and gratitude. Every step of the way, one hardship after the other, and the believer utters words only pleasing to His Rabb - being grateful and enduring with patience.

- Ayesha Ahmed (Texas)


Momin's attitude

A momin (believer) either does 'Shukr' (gratitude) or 'Sabr' (patience) in his life. He never forgets Allah in good times, and is patient (and hopeful) in bad times. This leads a momin to higher ranks.

- Salma Ghansar (Mississauga)


Paradise- everything we want in the Dunya, just better and more.

We always have the fear of anything bad happening to us in this Dunya----In Paradise there will be no evil, and Allah (s.w.t.) will protect us from all forms of Sharr.
We are always concerned about our looks, specially women want to look young and pretty----In Paradise, a special light of beauty (Nadrah) and joy will make the faces radiant and glowing. No need of expensive oils and lotions, or anti-aging creams.
We love beautiful, expensive and comfortable clothes----silk garments, light as well as thick, will be the garments in Paradise (raw silk, poth silk or any silk cannot compare to it at all)
We love unique jewelry---- The people of Paradise will be adorned with bracelets of silver. Seldom are we adorned with expensive beautiful jewelry that we like as well. We have to save our own money for that.
We like to relax and be comfortable----The people of Paradise will be reclining on raised couches, much better and comfortable than the day-beds and sofas that are loaded with cushions.
We like to maintain a perfect temperature, which is not possible in this Dunya----In Jannah, there will be neither excessive heat, nor excessive cold, just the perfect weather, and no fighting to adjust the thermostat.
We all love fresh fruit that is ripe as well----In Paradise, the bunches of ripe fruit will hang low within reach all year round, which is unimaginable in this part of the world.
We love to be served in delicate crystal and silver----In Paradise people will be served in Qawareer, which is crystal-clear, made of silver. We can only imagine the fine crystal with the silver trimming, but crystal-clear, made of silver, just imagine how beautiful that will be.
We all love mixed drinks and specially when they are cool----The purifying drinks of Jannah will be mixed with Kafoor and Zanjabil (ginger) and from the spring of Salsabeel. Strawberry Passion, and Mango delight, cannot compare to those drinks.
We love to get attention and be pampered----Young handsome boys with everlasting youth will be serving and attending to their needs in Paradise. When they will disperse to fulfill their needs, they will look like scattered pearls in a beautiful place. In this Dunya we exceed the limits, and try every trick to get attention from others, and still feel neglected.
If we want Paradise, we have to work towards it. We have to improve the quality of our deeds to get the Perfection of Jannah. The Qur'an is our guide and shows us the route to Jannah, step by step, so hold on tight and be grateful to Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala for giving it to us, and making understanding it easy as well. May Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala make us amongst the ones who will dwell in Jannah, InshaAllah.

- Fakhri Hameed (Ottawa)

Monday, August 13, 2007

Reflections of December 11, 2006

The Greatest Reality - Death

Now that the Qur'an is coming to a closure, I am realizing more and more that this is a Book which you just simply can NOT deny!!! Surah al-Qiyamah is about the inevitable reality, the reality of death. It made me think that I don't have much time left, and that perhaps if I want to succeed in the Akhirah I should straighten up. May Allah give us all the taufeeq (ability) to tread the path of righteousness. Ameen

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)


Death is life's biggest reality and most of us don't realize. Death is not something we can escape yet we don't prepare. Death comes without a call but how many of us take heed? As Muslims it’s so important that we be prepared for death at all times. It’s so important we work on doing everything to please Allah. To keep in mind that to Him is our return. Ya Allah! Give us a Beautiful End! Ameen

- Ayesha Ahmed (Texas)


Above all, be true to yourself. Our moral compass guides us in every situation. If we are true to ourselves, it will be easy for us to let things go and it will be easier for us to accept our faults. Some one once said, "Knowing others is knowledge, but knowing yourself is enlightenment".

The biggest greatest reality of life -------- DEATH. So accept it.

- Saba Paracha

Al-Qiyamah [The Resurrection]

Should not the description of Al-Qiyamah be enough to make us realize our deficiencies, all our wrong doings? The reality of death cannot be denied. Then why should we indulge in wrongs and be so lazy in doing good.
Start to prepare for the coming reality which no one can avoid. O Allah (s.w.t) please help us. Ameen

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)



Absorb the Qur'anMove not your tongue with it, [O Muhammad], to hasten with recitation of the Qur'ān. [Al-Qiyamah: 16]

Do not hasten for the 'completion' of Quran. It has been seen that people are more
interested in quickly completing the Quran, rather than absorbing it slowly and nicely. Be it kids doing the recitation for the 1st time, or elders learning tajweed, translation or tafseer.
It is a must on each one of us to recite or learn the Quran and complete it, but not just once but our interaction with the Quran should be a lifetime cycle. Focus on the contents of the Quran and get the true message.

- Salma Ghansar (Mississauga)

Sunday, August 12, 2007

Reflections of December 08, 2006

Arise and Warn

Surah Al-Muzzammil taught us how to strengthen our link with Allah (s.w.t) - by reading the Quran slowly in the hours of the night. Today, surah Al-Muddaththir gave us the next step - to Arise and warn. To come into action and start doing work.

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


قَالُوا لَمْ نَكُ مِنَ الْمُصَلِّينَ

They will say, "We were not of those who prayed
..."[
Al-Muddaththir: 43]

Where neglecting 'Salah' could take us

Each soul is held in pledge for what (evil deeds that) it earns, Except those on the right, (They will be placed) in Paradise (full of bounty); and they will ask one another, About (the destiny of) the sinners, (After seeing the sinners, they will say): “What has brought you into Hell named Saqar?” The guilty ones will reply: “We were not among those who pray; Nor did we feed the poor; And we used to be engaged in vain and mistaken disputes together with those who did so; And we used to deny the Day of Judgment.... [ Al-Muddththir: 38-46]
From these ayahs we come to know the reasons why these people were made to dwell in hell. It is not 'Kufr' or 'Shirk' but they were people who didn't do 'Amal'(good deeds). It is really scary to know the outcome of ignoring prayers. It is rightly said, 'The difference between a Kaafir (disbeliever) and a Momin (believer) is 'SALAH'

- Salma Ghansar (Mississauga)

Sunday, August 05, 2007

Reflections of December 07, 2006

"And recite the Quran with measured tone" [Al-Muzzammil: 4]

With dignity, placidity, poise, serenity, steadiness, thought, tranquility, clarity & beauty.

…With love.

- Aniqa Chohan (Australia)

Tahajjud

Dear Ustazah Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahe Wa Barakatu

As you mentioned in class, some of us read Surah Al Muzzammil everyday as part of the so called Manzil, but are unaware of the beautiful message that Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala is conveying to the ones who read the Qur'an.
The message and command... ‘wake up in the middle of the night for prayer, and stand (to pray) all night, except a little, Half of it or less than that,’ and recite the Qur'an with ‘Tarteel,’ slowly, for that will help in understanding the Qur'an, and contemplating on whatever we read.
How many of us do either of these? InshaAllah we should try, while the Tajweed rules are still fresh in our minds after today's test. No doubt, Tahajjud time or the early morning time, is the best time for Ebadah, especially if someone wants to improve their reading as well as memorizing, no other time is better than this time.
A few years ago I started going to a Qur'an memorization class in my city. It was organized for sisters, and the class used to start at 5:30 in the morning. In the winter, which is more severe than the winter of Toronto, I and my daughter used to leave the house at 5 am. Our teacher Sr. Kulthoom, who is Sudanese and an excellent Tajweed teacher and Hafiza, used to be there, punctual as ever. We had a group of around seven sisters, some times a few more or less. Before Salah tul Fajr, we used to recite what we had memorized, to our teacher, and get the new lesson. After Salah tul Fajr we used to memorize the new lesson, and recited it to one another. Memorization is not easy to do on your own. Our teacher was very strict, and we could not proceed further even if we made a little mistake, and Alhamdulillah we realized that Qur'an is not an ordinary book, and we have to give it its right by reading it the way it is meant to be read. I plan to continue InshaAllah, and wanted to share this as we think that it is not possible to memorize after a certain age.
Wake up in the middle of the night to stand in front of our Creator, to develop a strong connection with Him, and Thanking and Praising Him for all the Naimas that He has given us... The best of them all--- the Qur'an and its understanding----So ‘stand (to pray) all night, except a little, Half of it or less than that,’ [Al-Muzzammil: 2-3], and ‘recite of it what is easy.’ [Al-Muzzammil: 20]
May Allah subhanahu wa ta'aala make us amongst the ones who depend on Him and turn to Him at all times, for Help and Guidance, especially at the time when He listens to our Duas - the time of Tahajjud, InshaAllah.

Jazakillahu Khairan
- Fakhri Hameed (Ottawa)

Tahajjud

Today we learned the importance of the tahajjud prayers. In Surah Al-Muzzamil, Allah (s.w.t.) encourages us to stand up in prayers for a part of the night. The translation for Verses 6-8 are; "Surely the getting up at night for prayer is more effective for controlling the self and most suitable for understanding the word of Allah (the Quran) as well;[6] Because during the day you are hard pressed with worldly affairs.[7] Remember the name of your Rabb and devote yourself to Him with [complete] devotion. [8].
This is the best 'prescription' to reform ourselves and understand the Quran correctly. We need this connection with Allah (s.w.t.), this one to one time...devoting ourselves completely to our Rabb, away from all the noise and commotion of the 'busy' day. This is especially important for a da'ee (one who works to spread the Message of Allah) this is where they get their good understanding of the Quran and this is where they get their 'fuel' to keep going regardless of any hardships they encounter. I think it's amazing how we are learning this now, after we have Alhamdulillah reached the 29th juzz of the Quran. It's like Allah (s.w.t.) wants to prepare anyone who is willing to spread this message they have learned. To guide them as to where they should go, what they should do in case of any hardships along this path. It is up to us to practice what we have learned, to make that effort to sacrifice some sleep to worship Allah (even if it is just 2 rakka’). May Allah (s.w.t.) give us the strength to put into practice all of the beneficial things we learn. Ameen

- Ayesha Baig (California)

Reflections of December 06, 2006

Increase in sacrifice equals increase in steadfastness.
Therefore;
Sacrifice + more Sacrifice = Steadfastness + Infinite reward
Hence;
s + ms =S+I

- Aniqa Chohan (Australia)

Jinn

This is a classic example of being afraid of what you don't know. It is considered "general knowledge" that jinns are creatures to be feared. When in fact, we now learn that there is nothing to be afraid off. True knowledge will always bring you to the same conclusion; there is nothing worth fearing except Allah (s.w.t.)

- Nabila Naz (New Jersey)

Just a Jinn! Why fear?

وَأَنَّهُ كَانَ رِجَالٌ مِّنَ الْإِنسِ يَعُوذُونَ بِرِجَالٍ مِّنَ الْجِنِّ فَزَادُوهُمْ رَهَقًا
And there were men from mankind who sought refuge in men from the jinn, so they [only] increased them in burden.[Jinn: 6]

Be thankful to Allah, by not fearing the Jinns. Allah (s.w.t.) has made us the best 'makhlooq' (creation), our grade is above that of the Jinns. So, we should not fear them. Why should we fall below the level/grade that Allah has gifted us. It is not a minor thing to fear the Jinns instead of Allah, this is a major spoil of belief (aqeeda), causing the loss of our Aakhirah and sufferings in this world too. We in turn make them more confident and rebellious.
DO the masnoon duas of safety regularly, InshaAllah no harm will afflict us.

- Salma Ghansar (Mississauga)


It was really fascinating to know about jinns today. One of the students commented that we mostly listen to bad things about jinns, but after reading surah jinn there was a feeling of closeness. And its right, this link is established correctly by Quran, where Allah (s.w.t) has guided us about different jinns and there character also. Anyway, to think that Jinns are also fascinated by Quran---our salaam (regards) to them. May Allah (s.w.t) keep the believing jinns in His mercy.

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


Jinn
Surah- Al-Jinn
Verse- 1-4

Today we went over the tafseer of Surah Jinn. Jinn?.....kind of scary,.. they usually haunt houses and scare people... right? That's about all I used to know about them... the negative.
I would wonder, why did Allah (s.w.t.) name an entire Surah after them? As we learned today, the fact is that there is a lot we can learn from them. The first few verses of this Surah talk about their reaction after hearing a few verses of The Quran; "Say, [O Muhammud],"It has been revealed to me that a group of the jinn have listened and said,'Indeed, we have heard an amazing Quran. It guides to the right course,and we have believed in it. And we will never associate with our Lord anyone. And [it teaches] that exalted is the nobleness of our Lord; he has not taken a wife or a son. And that the foolish one [i.e., Iblees] has been saying about Allah an excessive transgression."(V.1-4)
Their reaction was amazing, they heard the Quran, believed right away and quickly summarized so much in just a few sentences! They recognized the wonder and uniqueness of the Quran, it's purpose and it's teachings.The Oneness and Exalted Nobleness of Allah (s.w.t.). They even recognized their enemy,Iblees!! We have heard the Quran many times but how many of us use our ability to perceive with such sharpness? We just read it over and over for 'barakah', and expect to get blessings! There is so much we can learn from this species... much more than just spooky stories. And best of all, we can get the information through an authentic source, The Quran.

- Ayesha Baig (California)

Reflections of December 05, 2006

An Ideal Da'ee - Nuh(as)

He (Nuh) said, "My Lord, indeed I invited my people [to truth] night and day. But my invitation increased them not except in flight. And indeed, every time I invited them that You may forgive them, they put their fingers in their ears, covered themselves with their garments, persisted, and were arrogant with [great] arrogance. Then I invited them publicly. Then I announced to them and [also] confided to them secretly. [Nuh: 5-9]


I love the way he just talks to Allah (s.w.t.) to let out his feelings and sorts out his problems. He didn't go to other human beings with his problems, he went straight to Allah, no wonder he had the strength to do dawah for 950 (plus) years!! He not only worked in the day, but 'night shift' also. How many of us would be willing to do that? We can hardly set aside a few hours a month for dawah! Imagine if we were talking to someone and they put their fingers in their ears and a cover over themselves out of arrogance, would we ever try to explain anything to them again? If one way didn't work Nuh(as) tried another, if not openly then secretly, if warnings didn't work he tried good tidings. He exhausted his efforts to convey the Message of Allah(s.w.t.). We should learn from his dedication and remind ourselves when we do dawah, that the problems we face are nothing compared to what Nuh(as) went through. And that if we want that same 'energy' we must have strong connection with Allah(s.w.t.). May Allah(s.w.t.) give us the ability to learn from this example of an ideal da'ee....Nuh(as). Ameen

- Ayesha Baig (California)


Da'ee - Best Job Ever

Talk to Allah about your problems, sorrows, complaints, love, joy, thoughts, hatred, enmity, rejections, family problems, friends, exhaustion's, envy, loneliness, regrets, edginess, hostility, bitterness, grudge, resentment, excitement, concerns.....etc, etc....SO MUCH TO TALK TO ALLAH ABOUT.....why depend on people...let Allah be the first to know....O Turner of the hearts, turn our hearts towards Your Deen. Ameen

- Saba Paracha (Pakistan)


Da’ee

There were many things to learn about how we can be devoted to Allah’s work.
1. Work day and night
2. Use all resources
3. Invite people to do I’badaat (Worship)
4. Ask them to seek forgiveness
5. Explain to them the benefits that are obtained by following deen
6. Talk about signs of Allah - make others recognize His Greatness and Mercy
7. Also pray for ourselves and our families and other believers.
May Allah help us all in conveying the best way. Ameen

- Ayesha Ahmed (Canada)

Reflections of December 04, 2006

Sabrun Jameel [A Beautiful Patience]
So be patient with gracious patience. [Al-Ma'arij: 5]

Upon hearing someone yell at you, mock at you, ignore you, stare at you - just smile.
You may be grinding your teeth with anger, your face all red, ready to smack that person down, but just smile and keep on smiling. Not only in these harsh circumstances but also while you are working, e.g. studying or cleaning - keep smiling. With the intention of doing sabrun jameel for your LORD; He will See and His Pleasure is the best to gain.

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


Sabrun Jameel - implement it and the result you get: AN EXCELLENT REWARD. InshaAllah!

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)


To endure with graceful patience;
to encounter
to endure
to swallow
to bear
to tolerate
to withstand
to experience
to face
to embrace
to win

- Aniqa Chohan (Australia)

Character of a Musallee

Before today's lesson, I never realized how interconnected a persons ibadah (worship) is with his character. In Surah Al-Ma'arij after explaining some of the terrors people will be going through on the Day of Judgment, and the bad characteristics of the disbelievers, Allah (s.w.t.) says: “Except the Musalleen (those who observe the prayer). Those who remain steadfast in their prayer"(V.22-23), after this their other characteristics are mentioned such as; sharing wealth with the needy, fulfilling their promises, etc. Again at the end of the description: “And those who strictly guard their Prayer". The Question is; Why is the first and last quality of this persons character (who is saved from the terrors of this Day) the fact that he prays?
What we learned today, and tend to forget is that; prayer is actually a means of reforming and building a person's character. We usually think of ibadah and character as two separate things. We sometimes do one and leave the other. We must have a balance between the two. Ibadah can ofcourse help only if we perform it in the correct manner. If we are steadfast in our prayers (as mentioned in V.23) - not only regular - but physically steadfast; not swinging back and forth, looking here and there etc.- this can teach us how to be focused. The fact that we are standing before the Owner of the Day of Judgment creates an awareness and fear which helps us keep up good character until the next prayer. If we pray with full concentration and are humbly submissive during our prayers this can, InshaAllah, lead us towards good character and who knows... maybe we can be counted amongst the Musalleen. InshaAllah

- Ayesha Baig (California)


It is those who shall have honor in Paradise

As the course is reaching its end, and we are ever nearing to the end of the 29th Para, I have been reflecting much on myself. What have I gained? Lost? Changed? improved?... while I was sitting in class today, listening to tafseer, recitation of the ayahs...I realized that how ever much Quran you want to absorb that’s how much will go in. When our minds and hearts are occupied elsewhere, when our inner compass is broken and we no longer point to our true north - then we are unable to understand the Quran. This is the worst thing, the inability to understand the Quran - because if you cannot delve into the words of Allah - how will you grow? How will you become some one who loves Allah, and Allah loves you? I have come to realize that every day when we lie down to sleep we must empty our hearts of all the rubbish we accumulate during the day. Every morning when we rise we must keep our intention, our purpose for doing what we do at the fore front of our minds. When we sit down to study tafseer - we have to open our hearts. Really and sincerely - free ourselves of everything else and sincerely place ourselves before this Quran. "Janaathin mukramoon"- I believe this is a place for those people who learn that a part of honoring the Quran is to make it the essence of everything you do. We have such, such little time left- I really pray that Allah gives us the tawfeek (ability) to make the most of it. Ameen

- Thanzila Naz (London)

Reflections of December 01, 2006

That Day, you will be exhibited [for judgement]; not hidden among you is anything concealed. [Al-Haaqqah: 18]

Stop cloaking
Stop concealing
Stop covering
For my cache of sins which will be unmasked, uncovered and unconcealed...

- Aniqa Chohan (Australia)


Glimpses of the Hereafter

We are in the 18 floor of the apartment building. The sky as well as the roads and houses below can easily be viewed. A beautiful blend of different shades of color of green and blue can be observed.
To imagine the land with everything on top of it, as big as mountains will be lifted up and crashed in a single blow. The sky splitting apart. I felt the power of Allah (s.w.t.)
I remembered how sahabas (r.a.) dreaded this day when all of us will be presented before Allah (s.w.t)---The All Mighty.
May Allah make that day easy for us. Ameen

- Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


In Surah Al-Haaqqah the description of the inmates of Hell is extremely terrifying. To read the verses makes one shudder with disgust and fear. The part that really struck me today was from Verse 36: "He will have no food except from gisleen (the discharge of wounds)."
We can hardly look at the discharge of wounds let alone trying to eat it! Imagine pus and blood together as a meal. It is unimaginable, but a reality. We must believe in the Hereafter with true conviction and wake up today while we still have a chance!

- Ayesha Baig (California)


Throughout the Quran we have come across various Surahs that have warned us about the Akhirah...the good and the bad. We all want the good, yet we still incline towards the evil in the dunya. We've been warned about the hell fire a numerous amount of times, and we fear it when we read about it but we still go back to our original ways. When will we change? May Allah (s.w.t) give us all the taufeeq to be guided on to the straight path. Ameen

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)

Reflections of November 30, 2006

Don't give in to pressure

As we finish the course with the light of Quran in our hearts, Allah (s.w.t.) is reminding us that when we go forth to share with others what we have, we will face opposition and pressure. It's not a pleasant thought, but it's better to be aware. If the Prophet (s.a.w.) had not worked so hard, with the support of Allah (s.w.t.), how would the message have reached us today?

- Rushda Haq (Mississauga)


A Character, One Great

Prophet Mohammad (saw) had a great character. Surah Al-Qalam, Verse 4 Allah (SWT) says: “And indeed, you are of a great moral character” We know that his own family members witnessed to this. He not only had good character in front of strangers but also at home. He didn't put on a fake character outside and another inside. His good character was a part of him. He even dealt with his enemies in the best way. The Prophet (saw) was a role model for us; we should follow his footsteps and have good character become a part of us; to the point where our close family members can witness to it. We can look into the Seerah and Hadith to find out more about this. The Ahadith about good character are categorized in a great way in our Husn-e-Akhlaq book, with audio lectures on the website. We should review this from time to time and InshaAllah try our best to practice it.

- Ayesha Baig (California)


Character: Of Prophet MUHAMMAD (S.A.W.)


Faced by scorn and abuse of the people, he (s.a.w.) never once lost his composure. With patience and forbearance, gravity and dignity, nobleness of bearing coupled with deep humility and compassion, whenever the noise grew too loud he would simply move to another place and attempt to address the people again.
Anis, Abu darr’s (r.a.) brother had never before seen such composure. He had seen courage but always coupled with arrogance, had seen dignity of a sort but always alongside conceit, had seen humility but never without weakness and lack of commitment, had seen compassion but only in the eyes of his mother. That was our beloved Prophet (s.a.w.)
Taken from: the Islamic rebel (life and time of Abu DARR ru ghafari ru.) by: Salman Hills.

-Ayesha Ahmed (Etobicoke)


"They desire you to compromise a little, so they too would compromise. Neither yield to any mean oath- monger. Mischief making slanderer. opponent of good, transgressor, sinful, wicked oppressor" [Al-Qalam: 9-13]

As people wish not to have such company and surroundings I worry and pray that I’m not one of them, that I don't be a hindrance for anyone. That I don't stop anyone from being a better person. That I don't stop anyone from spreading the message of Allah in anyway... not even by my heart.

- Sada Mohsin (New York)


The Importance of saying InshaAllah

The companions of the garden although believers made one mistake and their blessings were taken away from them. They forgot to say INSHAALLAH! This is a great reminder for us that when ever we plan or intend to do something we should say InshaAllah, because if Allah wants us to do something He will make sure that it gets done. InshaAllah!

- Fatima Malik (Mississauga)