In the Name of Allah, the Most Glorified and Exalted, Who says in the Qur’an,
"Verily, those who say: 'Our Rabb is (only) Allah,' and thereafter stand firm and straight, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.
Such shall be the dwellers of Paradise, abiding therein (forever) – a reward for what they used to do." (46:13-14)
From the first part of the article, insha-Allah, we now understand the importance of coupling faith with actions. But is this enough to achieve salvation?
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported: The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, "Follow the right path of faith strictly, and be steadfast; and keep in mind that none of you can achieve salvation through his (good) actions."
Someone asked, "Not even you, O Messenger of Allah?"
He (SAW) said, "Not even me, unless Allah grants me His Mercy and Grace." (Muslim)
Although the importance of faith and actions is beyond doubt, this Hadith tells us that we cannot depend entirely on this. In particular, this is important because very often there are shortcomings in our actions. It is therefore essential that we pray to Allah that He accept from us our good deeds, that He grant us His Infinite Mercy and that He grant us sincerity because even the greatest noble deed is invalid without it.
Friday, 28 December 2007
12.1, Uprightness and Steadfastness
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, Who says in the Qur’an,
"Verily, those who say: 'Our Rabb is Allah (Alone),' and then they stand firm, on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death) (saying): 'Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!
'We have been your friends in the life of this world and are (so) in the Hereafter. Therein you shall have (all) that your inner-selves desire, and therein you shall have (all) for which you ask.
'An entertainment from (Allah), the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.'
And who is better in speech than he who invites to Allah and does righteous deeds, and says, 'I am one of the Muslims.'" (41:30-33)
The topic of this article is the mark of perfect of faith; uprightness and steadfastness. I intend to cover this topic in two parts: In the first part, to highlight the need to couple faith with actions. In the second part, to make clear that there is another element beyond faith and actions that is necessary to achieve salvation.
Sufyaan bin 'Abdullah (RA) reported: I said, "O Messenger of Allah, tell me something of Islam which I will not ask anyone else about it."
He (SAW) said, "Say, 'I believe in Allah' and then be steadfast." (Muslim)
The advice here is twofold: Firstly, to express belief in Allah and, secondly, to be steadfast upon this belief. But what does this mean, to be steadfast?
Steadfastness means to cling firmly to the instructions of Islam, to do that which we have been commanded to do and to leave that which we have been prohibited from doing, to perform dutifully our obligations and to avoid completely that which is unlawful for us.
It is important to understand that faith is not just an expression of the tongue. Real faith is that which is coupled with practice (i.e. actions). Indeed, the practice of religion is the fruit of faith. Just like a tree that it supposed to bear fruit but does not, has no value, similarly; faith becomes meaningless without practice. Steadfastness is the mark of perfect faith.
"Verily, those who say: 'Our Rabb is Allah (Alone),' and then they stand firm, on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death) (saying): 'Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!
'We have been your friends in the life of this world and are (so) in the Hereafter. Therein you shall have (all) that your inner-selves desire, and therein you shall have (all) for which you ask.
'An entertainment from (Allah), the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.'
And who is better in speech than he who invites to Allah and does righteous deeds, and says, 'I am one of the Muslims.'" (41:30-33)
The topic of this article is the mark of perfect of faith; uprightness and steadfastness. I intend to cover this topic in two parts: In the first part, to highlight the need to couple faith with actions. In the second part, to make clear that there is another element beyond faith and actions that is necessary to achieve salvation.
Sufyaan bin 'Abdullah (RA) reported: I said, "O Messenger of Allah, tell me something of Islam which I will not ask anyone else about it."
He (SAW) said, "Say, 'I believe in Allah' and then be steadfast." (Muslim)
The advice here is twofold: Firstly, to express belief in Allah and, secondly, to be steadfast upon this belief. But what does this mean, to be steadfast?
Steadfastness means to cling firmly to the instructions of Islam, to do that which we have been commanded to do and to leave that which we have been prohibited from doing, to perform dutifully our obligations and to avoid completely that which is unlawful for us.
It is important to understand that faith is not just an expression of the tongue. Real faith is that which is coupled with practice (i.e. actions). Indeed, the practice of religion is the fruit of faith. Just like a tree that it supposed to bear fruit but does not, has no value, similarly; faith becomes meaningless without practice. Steadfastness is the mark of perfect faith.
From Earth to Sky
Consumed, over the shoulder discarded
Buried in humble dust, trampled and retarded
Out of sight, out of mind
Non-existent, if defined
Deep in dirt, sunk underground
Alone, darkness does surround
Nourished by soil and earth,
Reflections and contemplations are given birth
Steadfastness and patience begin to grow
Wisdom and experience in abundance do flow
Spread far and wide the sky is reached
Providing fruit and shade, a parable is breached
Where are the discarders, where are the trampling feet
scratching their heads in bitter defeat
-----
The above poem was written by a young man currently going through a testing time. My interpretation of his words is as follows: It is a "parable" of a man (the author I would assume) gaining "nourishment" (developing as a person in many unimaginable ways) from the very plots and plans of those intending to defeat, "discard" and "trample" him. The closing two lines are a taunt to the "discarders" and "trampling feet" to let them know that his spirit has not been broken, not in the least.
May Allah alleviate his burden, pour forth upon him patience and make him firm in the face of difficulty.
Buried in humble dust, trampled and retarded
Out of sight, out of mind
Non-existent, if defined
Deep in dirt, sunk underground
Alone, darkness does surround
Nourished by soil and earth,
Reflections and contemplations are given birth
Steadfastness and patience begin to grow
Wisdom and experience in abundance do flow
Spread far and wide the sky is reached
Providing fruit and shade, a parable is breached
Where are the discarders, where are the trampling feet
scratching their heads in bitter defeat
-----
The above poem was written by a young man currently going through a testing time. My interpretation of his words is as follows: It is a "parable" of a man (the author I would assume) gaining "nourishment" (developing as a person in many unimaginable ways) from the very plots and plans of those intending to defeat, "discard" and "trample" him. The closing two lines are a taunt to the "discarders" and "trampling feet" to let them know that his spirit has not been broken, not in the least.
May Allah alleviate his burden, pour forth upon him patience and make him firm in the face of difficulty.
Saturday, 17 November 2007
11.2, Kind Treatment Towards Parents
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Mentioned alongside Shirk (polytheism) on numerous occasions in various sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), there can be no doubt that disobedience to parents is a serious sin; a major sin in fact. In this context, I begin by repeating a verse from the previous part and request you to read knowing that this is a command direct from Allah, the Creator and Lord of you and I and all that exists:
“And your Rubb (Lord) has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: ‘My Rubb! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young’.” (17:23-24)
What if our parents pass away? Are there any acts of kindness or obedience that we can do for them after their death?
Abdullah bin ‘Umar (RA) reported: The Prophet (SAW) said, “The finest act of goodness is that a person should treat kindly the loved ones of his father.” (Muslim)
This Hadith teaches that after the death of our parents, we should maintain contact with their friends and treat them nicely. To forget their friends and break contact with them is a condemned act.
Lastly, Abu Usaid Malik bin Rabee’ah As-Saa’idi (RA) reported:
We were sitting with the Messenger of Allah (SAW) when a man of Banu Salamah came to him and asked, “O Messenger of Allah! Is there any obedience to parents left that I can show to them after their death?”
He (SAW) replied, “Yes, to pray for them, to supplicate for their forgiveness, to fulfil their promises after their death, to maintain the ties of kinship which cannot be maintained except through them, and to honour their friends.” (Abu Dawud)
It is clear from this Hadith that the life of our parents is a blessing because their life provides us with opportunities to serve them wholeheartedly, as ordained by Allah.
If we want to be nice to them after their death we should adopt the methods mentioned in this Hadith, which are to pray for them, to supplicate for their forgiveness, to fulfil their promises after their death, to maintain the ties of kinship which cannot be maintained except through them, and to honour their friends.
Subhaana-Allah, such is the Grace and Mercy of Allah: not only will we be rewarded for the virtuous acts we do for our deceased parents but their status will also be elevated in the Hereafter.
Mentioned alongside Shirk (polytheism) on numerous occasions in various sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), there can be no doubt that disobedience to parents is a serious sin; a major sin in fact. In this context, I begin by repeating a verse from the previous part and request you to read knowing that this is a command direct from Allah, the Creator and Lord of you and I and all that exists:
“And your Rubb (Lord) has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: ‘My Rubb! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young’.” (17:23-24)
What if our parents pass away? Are there any acts of kindness or obedience that we can do for them after their death?
Abdullah bin ‘Umar (RA) reported: The Prophet (SAW) said, “The finest act of goodness is that a person should treat kindly the loved ones of his father.” (Muslim)
This Hadith teaches that after the death of our parents, we should maintain contact with their friends and treat them nicely. To forget their friends and break contact with them is a condemned act.
Lastly, Abu Usaid Malik bin Rabee’ah As-Saa’idi (RA) reported:
We were sitting with the Messenger of Allah (SAW) when a man of Banu Salamah came to him and asked, “O Messenger of Allah! Is there any obedience to parents left that I can show to them after their death?”
He (SAW) replied, “Yes, to pray for them, to supplicate for their forgiveness, to fulfil their promises after their death, to maintain the ties of kinship which cannot be maintained except through them, and to honour their friends.” (Abu Dawud)
It is clear from this Hadith that the life of our parents is a blessing because their life provides us with opportunities to serve them wholeheartedly, as ordained by Allah.
If we want to be nice to them after their death we should adopt the methods mentioned in this Hadith, which are to pray for them, to supplicate for their forgiveness, to fulfil their promises after their death, to maintain the ties of kinship which cannot be maintained except through them, and to honour their friends.
Subhaana-Allah, such is the Grace and Mercy of Allah: not only will we be rewarded for the virtuous acts we do for our deceased parents but their status will also be elevated in the Hereafter.
11.1, Kind Treatment Towards Parents
In the Name of Allah, the Glorified and Exalted, Who says in the Qur’an,
“And we have enjoined on man to be good and dutiful to his parents.” (29:8)
In another place of the Qur'an, Allah says,
“And your Rubb (Lord) has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: ‘My Rubb! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young’.” (17:23-24)
And Allah says,
“And We have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness and hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years – give thanks to Me and to your parents.” (31:14)
Caught up in the zeal of youth and the passion for accomplishment, it is very easy to find ourselves attached to all kinds of commitments: studies, jobs, societal work, sports, and so on. We seek from such commitments all kinds of fulfilment and rewards. However, it is very important that such endeavours do not become a cause of neglect for the rights our families have over us, our parents in particular. Hence I would like to use this opportunity to remind us all (myself before any other) of the kind treatment and honour that our parents rightfully deserve.
‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud (RA) reported:
I asked the Prophet (SAW), “Which deed is loved most by Allah?”
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “Salah (prayer) at its proper time.”
I asked, “What next?”
He (SAW) replied, “Kindness to parents.”
I asked, “What next?”
He (SAW) replied, “Jihad in the way of Allah.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
We see here nice treatment to parents mentioned alongside Salah (prayer) and Jihad Fee Sabeelillah, which leaves no doubt as to the importance of this injunction.
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported:
A person came to the Messenger of Allah (SAW) and asked,
“Who among the people is the most deserving of my fine treatment?”
He (SAW) said, “Your mother.”
The man again asked, “Who next?”
The Prophet (SAW) replied again, “Your mother.”
The man asked, “Who next?”
He (the Prophet (SAW)) said again, “Your mother.”
The man again asked, “Then who?”
Thereupon the Prophet (SAW) said, “Then your father.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
This Hadith demonstrates that the rights of the mother are three times more important than that of the father. Among the reasons for this is that the following three troubles are borne exclusively by the mother while the father does not share them with her: Firstly, she carries the baby in her womb for nine months. Secondly, the labour pain which she suffers. Thirdly, the two years of suckling, during which time her sleep at night is disturbed, her health is affected and she has to be very cautious in her food for the welfare of the baby.
Subhaana-Allah! When we look back and think about all the sacrifices and hardships our parents have gone through to raise, we should be filled with great shame for even the slightest trouble or grief that we may have caused them. We should be filled with great shame and remorse for ever raising our voice against them, for any time we have addressed them in a tone of dishonour or for even the slightest sigh of “uff” that we may have sighed against them.
We ask Allah to forgive us our shortcomings, we make firm our intentions to not repeat past mistakes and we seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our selves.
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported: The Prophet (SAW) said,
“May he be disgraced! May he be disgraced! May he be disgraced, whose parents, one or both, attain old age during his lifetime, and he does not enter Jannah (Paradise) (by being dutiful to them).” (Muslim)
The word “raghaam” mentioned in this Hadith means soil. When a person’s nose is soiled, it is a mark of his extreme humiliation. This metaphor carries a curse for an unfortunate person who does not win the pleasure of Allah by serving and obeying his parents.
Service of parents is essential at every stage of their life - whether they are young or old. This Hadith mentions their old age for the reason that in this period of their life they stand in greater need of care and service. It is a very cold and insensitive offence to leave them at the mercy of circumstances when they are old, senile and depend on others for their needs. To neglect them at this stage of their life is a major sin for which a person deserves to be disgraced.
“And we have enjoined on man to be good and dutiful to his parents.” (29:8)
In another place of the Qur'an, Allah says,
“And your Rubb (Lord) has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: ‘My Rubb! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young’.” (17:23-24)
And Allah says,
“And We have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness and hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years – give thanks to Me and to your parents.” (31:14)
Caught up in the zeal of youth and the passion for accomplishment, it is very easy to find ourselves attached to all kinds of commitments: studies, jobs, societal work, sports, and so on. We seek from such commitments all kinds of fulfilment and rewards. However, it is very important that such endeavours do not become a cause of neglect for the rights our families have over us, our parents in particular. Hence I would like to use this opportunity to remind us all (myself before any other) of the kind treatment and honour that our parents rightfully deserve.
‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud (RA) reported:
I asked the Prophet (SAW), “Which deed is loved most by Allah?”
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “Salah (prayer) at its proper time.”
I asked, “What next?”
He (SAW) replied, “Kindness to parents.”
I asked, “What next?”
He (SAW) replied, “Jihad in the way of Allah.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
We see here nice treatment to parents mentioned alongside Salah (prayer) and Jihad Fee Sabeelillah, which leaves no doubt as to the importance of this injunction.
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported:
A person came to the Messenger of Allah (SAW) and asked,
“Who among the people is the most deserving of my fine treatment?”
He (SAW) said, “Your mother.”
The man again asked, “Who next?”
The Prophet (SAW) replied again, “Your mother.”
The man asked, “Who next?”
He (the Prophet (SAW)) said again, “Your mother.”
The man again asked, “Then who?”
Thereupon the Prophet (SAW) said, “Then your father.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
This Hadith demonstrates that the rights of the mother are three times more important than that of the father. Among the reasons for this is that the following three troubles are borne exclusively by the mother while the father does not share them with her: Firstly, she carries the baby in her womb for nine months. Secondly, the labour pain which she suffers. Thirdly, the two years of suckling, during which time her sleep at night is disturbed, her health is affected and she has to be very cautious in her food for the welfare of the baby.
Subhaana-Allah! When we look back and think about all the sacrifices and hardships our parents have gone through to raise, we should be filled with great shame for even the slightest trouble or grief that we may have caused them. We should be filled with great shame and remorse for ever raising our voice against them, for any time we have addressed them in a tone of dishonour or for even the slightest sigh of “uff” that we may have sighed against them.
We ask Allah to forgive us our shortcomings, we make firm our intentions to not repeat past mistakes and we seek refuge in Allah from the evil of our selves.
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported: The Prophet (SAW) said,
“May he be disgraced! May he be disgraced! May he be disgraced, whose parents, one or both, attain old age during his lifetime, and he does not enter Jannah (Paradise) (by being dutiful to them).” (Muslim)
The word “raghaam” mentioned in this Hadith means soil. When a person’s nose is soiled, it is a mark of his extreme humiliation. This metaphor carries a curse for an unfortunate person who does not win the pleasure of Allah by serving and obeying his parents.
Service of parents is essential at every stage of their life - whether they are young or old. This Hadith mentions their old age for the reason that in this period of their life they stand in greater need of care and service. It is a very cold and insensitive offence to leave them at the mercy of circumstances when they are old, senile and depend on others for their needs. To neglect them at this stage of their life is a major sin for which a person deserves to be disgraced.
Wednesday, 10 October 2007
Superiority of the Humble and Modest
(Article written for Issue 17 of the Noor Magazine)
In the Name of Allah, the Glorified and Exalted, who says in the Qur’an, “And keep yourself (O Muhammad (SAW)) patiently with those who call on their Rubb (Lord) morning and afternoon, seeking His Face; and let not your eyes overlook them, desiring the pomp and glitter of the life of this world; and obey not him whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance, and who follows his own lust, and whose affair (deeds) has been lost.” (18:28)
Here we are, a new year approaching (coincidentally, according to both the Christian and Muslim calendars) and a nice time to think about change, for the start of the Muslim Hijri calendar signifies just that: a change, a move from oppression in Makkah to liberation in Madinah.
The choice, ultimately, that each of us faces is twofold. On the one hand, we can rise in pride, chin raised, chest puffed, conforming to the masses we can walk the earth as kings; you are your own boss and free to do as you please. On the other hand, the more difficult option, we can step back, reflect upon, regret and refrain from past mistakes, and decide that there is a purpose more meaningful; you humble yourself with those who recognise and call on their Lord, morning and evening, seeking His Face.
That is the topic of my article: The superiority of those who humble themselves before God and the excellence of those who choose the path of modesty. To demonstrate the point I have selected just three Ahadith (sayings of the Prophet). The list is by no means exhaustive and there is definitely no shortage of teachings on the matter.
(1) Harithah bin Wahb (RA) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (SAW) saying, “Shall I not inform you about the people of Jannah? It is every person who is modest and humble (before Allah), a person who is accounted weak and is looked down upon but if he calls upon Allah, Allah will certainly give him what he desires. Now shall I not inform you about the inmates of Hell? It is every violent, rude and proud man.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
We see here the distinction of such modest and humble persons who, despite not having any important position in society, are so eminent in piety and trust in Allah that if they were to take an oath for something, Allah Almighty would fulfil it. Not only does this Hadith highlight the importance of modesty, it condemns pride, miserliness and lust for name and fame.
(2) Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said: There was a dispute between Hell and Jannah.
Hell said: “The haughty and proud are my inmates.”
Jannah said: “The modest and the humble are my residents.”
Thereupon, Allah the Exalted and Glorious (addressing Jannah) said: “You are My Mercy, through you I shall show mercy to those whom I wish.”
(And addressing Hell), He said: “You are (the means) of My punishment by which I shall punish such of My slaves as I wish and each one of you would have its fill.” (Muslim)
In this Hadith the people who are termed as ‘modest’ and ‘humble’ are those who are rich in faith and piety, who lead a life of patience and contentment. This Hadith gives glad tidings to such noble people. On the contrary, this Hadith has a threat of Hell for those who disobey the commandments of Allah out of haughtiness and pride, who refuse to bow down their faces in submission of their Lord, Most High. Now, it is entirely our own choice which way we go, and as the old saying goes, there is no time better than the present.
(3) Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “On the Day of Resurrection, there will be brought forth a bulky person whose value to Allah will be less than that of the wing of a mosquito.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
The manifestation of power and splendour, which we consider to be so important, will be of no value to Allah on the Day of Account. In the Hereafter, Allah will judge a person by his faith, devotion and piety. Therefore, over and above all else, it is essential that we concentrate on the reformation of our hearts, and it is vital that we develop a relationship with our Lord, the Most Glorified and Exalted. This Hadith makes it abundantly clear that what really matters with Allah is faith and piety; not lineage nor pomp nor show.
Summary
These Ahadith prove many points. The one that concerns us most here is that we must avoid copying those who are haughty and proud no matter how attractive their appearance is. The pleasure that comes with such imitation is deceptive and short-lived. True success lies instead in humbling ourselves before Allah. We must try to emulate those of virtue, humility and modesty, because seeking the pleasure of people is nothing but a fad. The very people whose pleasure we seek, like us, will be gone tomorrow, leaving this world to stand before their Lord, the Most Great, on a Day when there will be no bargaining, nor friendship, nor intercession.
Subhaana-Allah, those very people whose praise we seek and strive for, will forget us the day we are laid down and flattened in our graves. When that last piece of soil is placed on your grave, the people will all turn around, walk away and return to their jobs and their bills, leaving you alone, all alone, with nothing but your deeds, to answer the question, O Son of Adam, why did you not humble yourself before your Lord, Most High? O Son of Adam, why did you not humble yourself before your Lord, the most deserving of submission?
O Allah, just as You have made our external features beautiful, make our character beautiful as well, and make our faces forbidden for the Hellfire. Ameen.
Rceommended Reading: Riyadh-Us-Saliheen, a compilation of Hadith by Imam An-Nawawi
In the Name of Allah, the Glorified and Exalted, who says in the Qur’an, “And keep yourself (O Muhammad (SAW)) patiently with those who call on their Rubb (Lord) morning and afternoon, seeking His Face; and let not your eyes overlook them, desiring the pomp and glitter of the life of this world; and obey not him whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance, and who follows his own lust, and whose affair (deeds) has been lost.” (18:28)
Here we are, a new year approaching (coincidentally, according to both the Christian and Muslim calendars) and a nice time to think about change, for the start of the Muslim Hijri calendar signifies just that: a change, a move from oppression in Makkah to liberation in Madinah.
The choice, ultimately, that each of us faces is twofold. On the one hand, we can rise in pride, chin raised, chest puffed, conforming to the masses we can walk the earth as kings; you are your own boss and free to do as you please. On the other hand, the more difficult option, we can step back, reflect upon, regret and refrain from past mistakes, and decide that there is a purpose more meaningful; you humble yourself with those who recognise and call on their Lord, morning and evening, seeking His Face.
That is the topic of my article: The superiority of those who humble themselves before God and the excellence of those who choose the path of modesty. To demonstrate the point I have selected just three Ahadith (sayings of the Prophet). The list is by no means exhaustive and there is definitely no shortage of teachings on the matter.
(1) Harithah bin Wahb (RA) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (SAW) saying, “Shall I not inform you about the people of Jannah? It is every person who is modest and humble (before Allah), a person who is accounted weak and is looked down upon but if he calls upon Allah, Allah will certainly give him what he desires. Now shall I not inform you about the inmates of Hell? It is every violent, rude and proud man.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
We see here the distinction of such modest and humble persons who, despite not having any important position in society, are so eminent in piety and trust in Allah that if they were to take an oath for something, Allah Almighty would fulfil it. Not only does this Hadith highlight the importance of modesty, it condemns pride, miserliness and lust for name and fame.
(2) Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said: There was a dispute between Hell and Jannah.
Hell said: “The haughty and proud are my inmates.”
Jannah said: “The modest and the humble are my residents.”
Thereupon, Allah the Exalted and Glorious (addressing Jannah) said: “You are My Mercy, through you I shall show mercy to those whom I wish.”
(And addressing Hell), He said: “You are (the means) of My punishment by which I shall punish such of My slaves as I wish and each one of you would have its fill.” (Muslim)
In this Hadith the people who are termed as ‘modest’ and ‘humble’ are those who are rich in faith and piety, who lead a life of patience and contentment. This Hadith gives glad tidings to such noble people. On the contrary, this Hadith has a threat of Hell for those who disobey the commandments of Allah out of haughtiness and pride, who refuse to bow down their faces in submission of their Lord, Most High. Now, it is entirely our own choice which way we go, and as the old saying goes, there is no time better than the present.
(3) Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “On the Day of Resurrection, there will be brought forth a bulky person whose value to Allah will be less than that of the wing of a mosquito.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
The manifestation of power and splendour, which we consider to be so important, will be of no value to Allah on the Day of Account. In the Hereafter, Allah will judge a person by his faith, devotion and piety. Therefore, over and above all else, it is essential that we concentrate on the reformation of our hearts, and it is vital that we develop a relationship with our Lord, the Most Glorified and Exalted. This Hadith makes it abundantly clear that what really matters with Allah is faith and piety; not lineage nor pomp nor show.
Summary
These Ahadith prove many points. The one that concerns us most here is that we must avoid copying those who are haughty and proud no matter how attractive their appearance is. The pleasure that comes with such imitation is deceptive and short-lived. True success lies instead in humbling ourselves before Allah. We must try to emulate those of virtue, humility and modesty, because seeking the pleasure of people is nothing but a fad. The very people whose pleasure we seek, like us, will be gone tomorrow, leaving this world to stand before their Lord, the Most Great, on a Day when there will be no bargaining, nor friendship, nor intercession.
Subhaana-Allah, those very people whose praise we seek and strive for, will forget us the day we are laid down and flattened in our graves. When that last piece of soil is placed on your grave, the people will all turn around, walk away and return to their jobs and their bills, leaving you alone, all alone, with nothing but your deeds, to answer the question, O Son of Adam, why did you not humble yourself before your Lord, Most High? O Son of Adam, why did you not humble yourself before your Lord, the most deserving of submission?
O Allah, just as You have made our external features beautiful, make our character beautiful as well, and make our faces forbidden for the Hellfire. Ameen.
Rceommended Reading: Riyadh-Us-Saliheen, a compilation of Hadith by Imam An-Nawawi
Sunday, 7 October 2007
10.2, Superiority of the Humble and Modest
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “On the Day of Resurrection, there will be brought forth a bulky person whose value to Allah will be less than that of the wing of a mosquito.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
The manifestation of power and splendour, which we consider to be so important, will be of no value to Allah on the Day of Account. In the Hereafter, Allah will judge a person by his faith, devotion and piety. Therefore, over and above all else, it is essential that we concentrate on the reformation of our hearts, and it is vital that we develop a relationship with our Lord, the Most Glorified and Exalted.
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said, “None spoke in the cradle but only three (persons)..."
The Hadith then continues and after mentioning the first two, the Prophet (SAW) told of the third baby who spoke in the cradle:
“… There was a baby who was sucking at his mother’s breast when a person dressed in fine garment came on a priceless riding animal’s back. The child’s mother said: ‘O Allah, make my child like this one.’
The baby left suckling, looked at the man and said: ‘O Allah, don't make me like him.’
He then returned to the breast and resumed suckling… There happened to pass by them a slave girl who was being beaten and the people were saying: ‘You have committed fornication and theft.’
The girl was saying: ‘Allah is enough for me and He is my Good Protector.’
The baby’s mother said: ‘O Allah, don't make my child like her.’
The baby left suckling, looked at her and said: ‘O Allah! Make me like her.’
This was followed by a conversation between the mother and child. She said: ‘A good looking man happened to pass by and I said: O Allah, make my child like him, and you said: O Allah, don’t make me like him, and there passed a girl while the people were beating her and saying: You committed fornication and theft, and I said: O Allah, don’t make my child like her, and you said: O Allah, make me like her.’
The child said: ‘That man was a tyrant, and I said: O Allah don't make me like him; and they were saying about the girl: You committed fornication, whereas in fact she had not committed that and they were saying: You have committed theft, whereas she had not committed theft, so I said: O Allah, make me like her.’” (Bukhari and Muslim)
This Hadith tells of three babies who spoke in the cradle. All three babies were from Banu Israel and their story is mentioned in Sahih Muslim in the story of AsHaab-ul-Ukhdud.
The Hadith proves many points. The one that concerns us today is that we must avoid copying those who are haughty and proud no matter how attractive their appearance is. The pleasure that comes with such imitation is deceptive and short-lived.
True success lies instead in humbling ourselves before Allah. We must try to emulate those of virtue, humility and modesty, because seeking the pleasure of people is nothing but a fad. The very people whose pleasure we seek, like us, will be gone tomorrow, leaving this world to stand before their Lord, the Most Great, on a Day when there will be no bargaining, nor friendship, nor intercession.
Subhaana-Allah, those very people whose praise we seek and strive for, will forget us the day we are laid down and flattened in our graves. When that last piece of soil is placed on your grave, the people will all turn around, walk away and return to their jobs and their bills, leaving you alone, all alone, with nothing but your deeds, to answer the question, O Son of Adam, why did you not humble yourself before your Lord, Most High? O Son of Adam, why did you not humble yourself before your Lord, the most deserving of submission?
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “On the Day of Resurrection, there will be brought forth a bulky person whose value to Allah will be less than that of the wing of a mosquito.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
The manifestation of power and splendour, which we consider to be so important, will be of no value to Allah on the Day of Account. In the Hereafter, Allah will judge a person by his faith, devotion and piety. Therefore, over and above all else, it is essential that we concentrate on the reformation of our hearts, and it is vital that we develop a relationship with our Lord, the Most Glorified and Exalted.
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said, “None spoke in the cradle but only three (persons)..."
The Hadith then continues and after mentioning the first two, the Prophet (SAW) told of the third baby who spoke in the cradle:
“… There was a baby who was sucking at his mother’s breast when a person dressed in fine garment came on a priceless riding animal’s back. The child’s mother said: ‘O Allah, make my child like this one.’
The baby left suckling, looked at the man and said: ‘O Allah, don't make me like him.’
He then returned to the breast and resumed suckling… There happened to pass by them a slave girl who was being beaten and the people were saying: ‘You have committed fornication and theft.’
The girl was saying: ‘Allah is enough for me and He is my Good Protector.’
The baby’s mother said: ‘O Allah, don't make my child like her.’
The baby left suckling, looked at her and said: ‘O Allah! Make me like her.’
This was followed by a conversation between the mother and child. She said: ‘A good looking man happened to pass by and I said: O Allah, make my child like him, and you said: O Allah, don’t make me like him, and there passed a girl while the people were beating her and saying: You committed fornication and theft, and I said: O Allah, don’t make my child like her, and you said: O Allah, make me like her.’
The child said: ‘That man was a tyrant, and I said: O Allah don't make me like him; and they were saying about the girl: You committed fornication, whereas in fact she had not committed that and they were saying: You have committed theft, whereas she had not committed theft, so I said: O Allah, make me like her.’” (Bukhari and Muslim)
This Hadith tells of three babies who spoke in the cradle. All three babies were from Banu Israel and their story is mentioned in Sahih Muslim in the story of AsHaab-ul-Ukhdud.
The Hadith proves many points. The one that concerns us today is that we must avoid copying those who are haughty and proud no matter how attractive their appearance is. The pleasure that comes with such imitation is deceptive and short-lived.
True success lies instead in humbling ourselves before Allah. We must try to emulate those of virtue, humility and modesty, because seeking the pleasure of people is nothing but a fad. The very people whose pleasure we seek, like us, will be gone tomorrow, leaving this world to stand before their Lord, the Most Great, on a Day when there will be no bargaining, nor friendship, nor intercession.
Subhaana-Allah, those very people whose praise we seek and strive for, will forget us the day we are laid down and flattened in our graves. When that last piece of soil is placed on your grave, the people will all turn around, walk away and return to their jobs and their bills, leaving you alone, all alone, with nothing but your deeds, to answer the question, O Son of Adam, why did you not humble yourself before your Lord, Most High? O Son of Adam, why did you not humble yourself before your Lord, the most deserving of submission?
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