Worship, Wisdom and War: 17th Taraweeh Summary 2020

 

 

The Impact of Worship, Wisdom & War

Tonight’s Taraweeh consists of juz 21.

The Sûrahs covered are nos. 29-33: the 2^nd half  of Al-‘Ankabût (The Spider), Ar-Rûm (The Byzantine Romans), Lûqmân, As-Sajdah (Prostration) & one-third of Al-Ahzâb (The Confederates).

Sûrah Al-‘Ankabût (The Spider)

Personal Actions.  Social Consequences.

Establishing prayers is a powerful means to “prevent shameful & unjust deeds.”

Indeed “The remembrance of Allah (swt) is the greatest (thing in life).”

If you work hard for the One you remember, He will grow in you a capacity to do further goodness.

Sûrah Ar-Rûm (The Eastern Romans)

Political Actions. Global Consequences.

This Sûrah was revealed when the Persian Empire achieved victory over the Byzantine (Eastern Roman) Empire.

The Byzantine Empire had lost Jerusalem to the Sassanid Persians and Christianity had suffered a great defeat.

Then the surah foretells of a victory in which Byzantium will defeat the Persians ‘and the Believers will rejoice’ at their victory as they were People of the Book.

The prophecy was fulfilled within 7 years, causing many people to convert to Islam.

We then move from the miracle of the Quran to the miracles of creation. Allah (swt)’s creation points to His unique Lordship. Our creation from dust is a masterly act in itself. Then, our social lives begin based on His creation of mates for us. Even the differences in people’s languages and colours show an underlying unity.

Because He is One, His prescribed Religion is One so do not split up into sects.

Allah decides the wealth of man, so give in charity if you wish to be successful. Do not give gifts in the hope that you will receive a larger one in return from the recipient.

But charitable donations given for the sake of Allah’s pleasure will have ‘a manifold increase.’

Mischief spreads but Allah will purify all things in the end. When you obey Allah, be confident that you are doing the right thing because Allah’s promise of success is absolutely true.

Sûrah Luqmân

Words of Wisdom

The Qur’an is full of wisdom. Do not be misled by speech & songs that distract from Allah.

Listen to Luqmân’s wise advice to his son: be thankful to Allah and do not devote yourself to others besides Allah (i.e. shirk). Shirk is a great injustice.

Keep kind company with your parents. Pray regularly; establish what is right and forbid what is wrong. Be patient during hard times; do not give others the cold shoulder.

Be moderate in your stride and speech.

In short follow the “Golden Mean”, rather than extremes. True Wisdom is when one sees Allah’s Purpose in His Creation & admits that Allah’s Wisdom & Law can never be fully understood by men.

Only Allah knows: (1) The Hour of Judgement; (2) Sending of rain; (3) What future holds for the fetus in the womb; (4) what a person will earn tomorrow, & (5) in what land one will die.

Sûrah As-Sajdah (The Prostration)

Remorse

This surah is the last in the series of 4 that begin with Alif Lâm Mîm.

Allah initiated the creation of man from clay then created his descendants from fluid and fashioned him in due proportion.

We are blessed with all the faculties and yet what little thanks we give.

If only you could see the sinners hang their heads before their Lord. The will say, ‘Send us back (to the world), we will do righteous deeds. Now we believe!’

And Allah makes men taste the torments of this world so that they may repent and return to the right path.

‘Is it not guidance for them, how many generations We have destroyed before them in whose dwellings they walk about?’

Allah (swt)’s creation and the remnants of past nations testify to the Truth. So what are you waiting for?

Sûrah Al-Ahzâb (The Confederates)

Divine Aid. Victorious Consequences.

 The Prophet s.a.w is ordered to trust in Allah and not to heed the advice of the disbelievers and the hypocrites.

Abandon pagan customs & call people by their proper names.

“The Prophet is closer to the Believers than their own selves, and his wives are their mothers.”

While blood relatives are more entitled to inheritance, you must support your brothers in faith.

A vivid picture is portrayed of the believers at the Battle of the Trench:

‘ Remember Allahs’ favour….when We sent against (the enemy) a wind

and forces that you saw not..when they came upon you from above and below

and when the eyes grew wild

and the hearts reached to the throats

and you were harbouring doubts about Allah.

There, the believers were tried and shaken with a mighty shaking.’

The Battle of the Trench taught us the following lessons:

(1) Without Allah’s Help, the Muslims would have faced a tragedy;

(2) the Hypocrites are insincere & afraid to fight for Allah’s cause;

(3) Under all conditions the Muslims “have indeed in the Apostle of Allah a beautiful pattern (of behaviour).”

In tonight’s taraweeh, may we truly think of the impact of our actions on ourselves, our world and our future.

 

Abbreviations

s.w.t  – Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

a.s – Alayhis Salam– (Prophets, pious ones) on whom be peace

s.a.w – SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace

Tiny signs. Mighty Lessons. 16th Taraweeh Summary 2020

 

Tiny Signs. Mighty Lessons.

Tonight’s Taraweeh consists of the last ¼  of juz 19 andall of juz 20.

The Sûrahs covered are nos. 27-29 An-Naml (The Ants), Al-Qasas (The Narration), and the first ½ of Al-‘Ankabût(The Spider).

Sûrah An-Naml (The Ants)

The Tiny Ant and The Mighty King

Allah s.w.t reminds us of the story of Moses and the burning bush. Allah blessed him with shining proofs that only the arrogant could deny.

And He blessed the Prophet King Solomon with the gift of understanding the speech of animals.  He rode with his army of jinn, men and birds ‘in order and ranks.’

On one expedition, he heard an ant warn others to move out of the way of the advancing army. Solomon smiled humbly and asked Allah to make him a thankful and righteous man.

Bilqees, Queen of Sheba ruled over a kingdom that engaged in sun-worship.

She was invited to his kingdom and she was reminded of the majestic signs of Allah that lay within Solomon’s palace. She submitted to the Lord of the Worlds became a Muslim.

Then we are given another short glimpse into the actions of the people of Prophet Salih, the Thamud.

Among them were a gang of 9 troublemakers who plotted an assassination attempt on Prophet Salih and his family.

However Allah thwarted their plot and destroyed the nation for its disbelief.

We are asked to consider a basic point, ‘Is Allah better or those you claim share His abilities?’ They can neither cause the growth of a tree, nor the flow of a river. Nor can they guide you on land or at sea.

And fear the Day of  when the Trumpet will be blown and everyone will be terrified except whom Allah wills.

Whosoever receives guidance from the Quran, receives it for his own good. And if one goes astray, tell him, O Muhammad s.a.w, ‘I am just a warner.’

Sûrah Al-Qasas (The Narrative)

Raising Moses

This surah discusses Revelation and its reception, but it also shows how an Apostle is prepared for his mission, even as an ordinary young man.

The story of Moses is related in detail and shows this point. Allah ‘bestowed on him wisdom and knowledge’ when he became a mature youth.

While he was yet a baby, Allah wanted to ‘make him one of (His) Apostles’.

In youth, he prayed to Allah for forgiveness and guidance. In his exile, he found support from his wife and family. When he preached, Allah (s.w.t) gave him strength.

In short, Allah’s Mercy rests with the Apostle from the time of his birth. Allah’s Message is rejected by people who are proud or haughty like Pharaoh.

Muhammad  was also given guidance before he attained Prophethood. His Message was also rejected by the proud Makkans.

Those who want comfort in the hereafter must repent, have faith, and do good; because to Allah belongs all mercy and truth.

Qarun was a man so wealthy that the keys to his treasures could not be lifted by groups of strong men.

Where Prophet Sulaiman became humbly grateful for his resources, Qarun acted arrogantly towards his people.

He was swallowed up by the very earth on which he had strutted and none of his wealth or entourage could save him from the anger of Allah.

 

Sûrah Al-Ankabût (The Spider)

Mighty Tests and The Humble Spider Web

Sûrah Al‘Ankabût is part of a series of sûrahs which begin with the letters Alif Lam Meem and deal with the doctrine of the final return of man to Allah.

Our faith will be tested, ‘and Allah will certainly know those who are true from those who are false,’  just as He tested those before us.

Learn from the past.

Noah’s people remained stubborn for 9 centuries, Abraham’s people threatened to burn him alive.

Lot’s people not only rejected the Message but publicly defied him by doing wrong.

The ‘Ad and Thamûd abused their God given talents and Qârûn, Pharaoh and Hâmân were punished because of their pride.

Taking for your protector any being other than Allah is like having a spider’s house which is very beautiful and interesting, but very weak.

By disbelieving in Allah you might find a little gratification. But this pleasure will be short lived and a detriment to your future.

In tonight’s taraweeh, may we reflect on even the tiniest of Allah’s signs.

 

Seek the Light: 15th Taraweeh Summary 2020

Seek The Light

Tonight’s taraweeh is at the midway point of Ramadan alhamdulillah! It consists of the 2^nd half  of  juz 18  and the 1^st  three-quarters of  juz 19.

The Sûrahs covered are the last three-quarters of no.24 An-Nûr (Light), no.25 Al-Furqân (The Criterion) & no.26 Ash-Shu’arâ’ (The Poets).

Sûrah An-Nûr (The Light) contd

Piety and Privacy

The instructions are straightforward yet far reaching, ‘O you who believe, follow not the footsteps of Satan.’  And when told to pardon and forgive others, we are asked, ‘Do you not love that Allah forgive you?’

We are prescribed the rules of chaste conduct and personal privacy. Severe penalties are described for those who slander chaste women. We are not to intrude on each other’s privacy and must seek permission before entering someone’s home. Our gazes must  restrain themselves from what is forbidden and our dress must be modest.

Allah Almighty reveals the splendid description of His Light (Nur). It is like a niche, within which is a lamp, in a glass, like a brilliant star and the stunning description goes on. Allah guides to His Light to whom He wills. But the state of the disbeliever is like the darkness of a vast deep sea overwhelmed by waves and surrounded by clouds.

Look up at the clouds in the heavens, see how they amass and produce rain, hail and lightning.

It is those who believe and do righteous deeds that are promised succession (to the present rulers) in the earth complete with safety and security.

Then once more Allah Almighty prescribes rules of personal privacy concerning the home and the modesty of elderly women.

One is not to address the Prophet like any other man. We are to obey Allah and His Messenger and offer him our fullest respect.

Sûrah Al-Furqân (The Criterion)

Moderation In Due Proportion

One of Allah’s greatest gifts to mankind is the Qur’ân, which is the criterion (Furqan) by which we may judge what is right or wrong. He has created and measured everything in due proportion yet people insist on attributing the powers of Allah to their idols.

All Allah’s Apostles were ordinary men appointed to guide others to the Right Path. The Unbelievers ask,’Why are not the angels sent down to us? (i.e.why an ordinary man instead?)’  & ‘(Why) do we not see our Lord?’ The response it that when they do the see the angels it will be too late, ‘ no joy will there be to the sinners’.

The wrongdoer will be remorseful saying, ‘Would that I had taken a path with the Messenger, if only I had never taken so and so as a friend, he indeed led me astray from this Reminder (Quran) after it had come to me…’

Now pay attention and consider this world of water that we live in. The rain is Allah’s Mercy that revives the dead earth and quenches thirst. Man was made from water and his kindred created by blood and marriage.

Prostrate before the Most Merciful and walk with humility. Be gentle with the foolish and spend in moderation. And the Believers pray to Allah that their families be the comfort of their eyes and they by appointed leaders of the righteous.

Sûrah Ash-Shu’arâ’ (The Poets)

Revelation and Rhyme

We are once more a witness to the mission of Prophets Moses and Aaron. An intense exchange takes place between Moses and Pharaoh. Pharaoh challenges Moses, asserting his kingship over him.  Finally Moses’  Truth prevails over Pharoah whose tyranny is ultimately destroyed.

Abraham challenges his father and his people and shows them the fallacy of their idols and the divinity of the Creator. ‘It is He who guides me, and feeds me and gives me to drink. And when I am ill, it is He who cures me.’ He asks Allah for wisdom, and company of the righteous, that he is mentioned honourably by later generations, that he inherit the Paradise of Delight and that his father be forgiven.

Prophet Noah and his successors warn their people against the distraction of worldly luxuries, personal desires and ancestral traditions. Their rejection of the Truth brings about their destruction. And Allah always sent warners to the communities and was never unjust.

The final revelation was brought down to the heart of the Prophet Muhammad by the Angel  Gabriel in the plain Arabic language. And it was announced in the previous scriptures. The Qur’an is the word of an honoured Messenger, not the word of a poet. The poets (shu’ara) are those who roam about spreading lies and praises based on whim, except for those believers who remember Allah and use verse to defend those who have been wronged.

During tonight’s Taraweeh, may we reflect on Allah’s Guidance and ask that He illuminate our journey in life.

Abbreviations

s.w.t  – Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

a.s – Alayhis Salam– (Prophets, pious ones) on whom be peace

s.a.w – SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace

The Vigilant Believer: 14th Taraweeh Summary 2020

The Vigilant Believer

Tonight’s taraweeh consists of the last ¾ of juz 17 and the first ½  of juz 18 .

The Sûrahs covered are the 2^nd  ½  of no.21 Al-Anbiyâ’ (The Prophets), no. 22 Al-Hajj (The Pilgrimage), no.23 Al-Mu’minûn (The Believers) and the 1^st  ¼  of no.24 An-Nûr (Light).

Sûrah Al-Anbiyâ’ (The Prophets)

The Prophets & Their Lord

All the great Apostles were steadfast against evil and Allah enveloped them in His Mercy.

Feel the faith of Abraham as he emerged unscathed from the fire set up by the disbelievers.

His nephew Lot’s mission was to weed out corruption.

Noah fought against unbelief and was saved from the Flood by Allah.

How wise and powerful were  David and Solomon: leaders of creation, servants of the Creator.

Job was tested with great adversity and saved.

Jonah was rescued from the distress of  darknesses.

Mary, mother of Jesus, demonstrated true chastity: she and her son became a miraculous sign for generations to come.

No good deed is worthless; make them count before you are held to account.

Sûrah Hajj (The Pilgrimage)

Show Your Piety To God

We now begin a new series of 4 surahs. Consider the infant baby during the convulsion of the final Hour. Its nursing mother will be distracted from her child and the pregnant mother will drop her load. Now consider the unborn child, if you doubt life after death. Allah transforms the sperm drop within the womb into different forms of life until it is born. And then it goes through different stages of life until he, once more, knows nothing (becomes senile). So how do you doubt that Allah can bring forth life again?

For spiritual growth Allah  has taught us meaningful practices to show our innermost feelings to our Creator.

The Hajj (pilgrimage) serves many purposes to:

• “Celebrate the Name of Allah”
• Gather men and women from near and far to share in sacrifice.
• Bring about unity of the Ummah.

Sincere sacrifice includes piety of the heart and feeding “the distressed ones in need” is a means to share Allah’s favours.

Do not argue about rites and ceremonies but follow the Straight Path.

Worship Allah alone. Other so-called gods “cannot even create a fly!”

Be humble before Allah, “strive in His Cause”, pray regularly, “give regular charity” and trust in Allah.

Think about the fact that Allah “has not placed any difficulties on you in respect of Faith.”

Sûrah Al-Mu’minûn (The Believers)

The 7 Habits

This Sûrah discusses the basics of Islam. To be a successful believer you must (1) be humble and regular (in your prayers), (2) avoid idle talk, (3) give charity, (4) guard your modesty, (5) be faithful to your trusts, (6) honour your promises, and (7) strictly guard your prayers.

Study your own selves or study the Creation around you, and you will see Allah’s truth. Noah and his successors brought Allah ’s message  to their local communities but they were rejected for being too human, too much like their own selves, too human, not angelic enough.

Seek refuge with Allah from the Evil Ones. The wrong-doer will realise his foolishness too late. Once he is dead he will ask “O my Lord! Send me back (to life)” to do good. But it will be too late to prevent him from receiving Punishment. Allah created us for a purpose in this extremely short life. Praise Allah  and seek His forgiveness.

Sûrah An-Nûr (The Light)

Moral Ground

When sexual relations exceed the bounds of a healthy marriage, when chastity is disregarded, when false accusations of adultery are made and when personal privacy is invaded, a person’s spirit suffers.

Allah reprimands the ones who spread the false accusation regarding Aishah, the wife of the Prophet:

“You said with your mouths that of which you had no knowledge and thought it was insignificant while it was, in the sight of Allah , tremendous.

And why, when you heard it, did you not say, “It is not for us to speak of this. Exalted are You, [O Allah ]; this is a great slander”

Allah warns you against returning to the likes of this [conduct], ever, if you should be believers.”

During tonight’s Taraweeh, may we stay vigilant on our spiritual journey in this physical world.

Abbreviations

s.w.t  – Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

a.s – Alayhis Salam– (Prophets, pious ones) on whom be peace

s.a.w – SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace

Knowledge is a Journey: 13th Taraweeh Summary 2020

Knowledge is a  Journey 

Tonight’s taraweeh consists of all of juz 16  and ¼  of  juz 17 .

The surahs covered are the final ¼ of no.18 Al- Kahf (The Cave), no.19 Maryam (Mary), no.20 Tâhâ , & ½  of no.21 Al-Anbiyâ’ (The Prophets).

Surah Al-Kahf (The Cave)

Moses and The Wise Man

We watch the Prophet Moses – Mûsâ – set off on a quest for knowledge along with young Joshua – Yusha ibn Nun. They encounter a wise man (Khadr or Khidr a.s) who is prepared  to teach Moses on one condition. Moses must be patient and ask him no questions until he is ready to explain. However as they start travelling together, Moses witnesses many strange events that prompt him to ask the wise man question after question. Ultimately Khadr feels compelled to part ways due to the impatience of Moses. Khadr had scuttled a boat, killed a child and repaired the wall of a hostile town. Before parting ways he explains the rationale of each unusual event to Moses, then says, ‘And I did it not of my own accord. That is the interpretation of that about which you could not have patience.’

We are given a glimpse into the expeditions of the great military leader, Dhul Qarnain. He reigned over a massive empire wherein he punished the guilty & rewarded the good. He protected the weak from the lawless and thus used his faith and vast resources to serve Allah swt.

Surah Maryam (Mary)

Family values

In this surah Allah the Almighty provides us with insights into the lives of His Messengers and their families. Zechariah – Zakariya – had wanted a son who would spread Allah’s message. He was blessed with a son, the Prophet John – Yahya. ‘He was dutiful to his parents and not a disobedient tyrant.’

Mary – Maryam – was blessed with a miraculous virgin birth. The people accused her of  having an illegitimate child. The infant Jesus – Isâ – cleared her name and affirmed that he was a Prophet of Allah and a dutiful son.

Recall the story of Abraham  who  was ill-treated by his people, including his father, but he turned to Allah, and was blessed with righteous descendants including Isaac who was then blessed with Jacob. Allah in His mercy appointed Aaron – Hârûn –  as a Prophet to assist his brother Mûsâ in his work.  Ishmael and Enoch -Idrîs- are praised as truthful men.

‘These were the ones upon whom Allah bestowed favour from among the Prophets of the descendants of Adam and those We carried with Noah and of the descendants of Abraham and Israel (i.e. Jacob)…When the verses of the Most Merciful were recited to them, they fell in prostration and weeping. ‘

Follow the Prophets’ values and commitment to serve Allah alone and do not claim that He has a son or other divine partners.

Allah Almighty confirms that those who have believed and done righteous deeds then He will create love and affection (from Himself and amongst them).

Surah Tâ Hâ

The Mission of Moses

This is the surah which was said to inspire the companion ‘Umar to convert to Islam during the time of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. The Qur’ân has not been revealed “to distress you but only as a reminder to those who fear Allah”.

We are taken through the story of Moses’ Prophethood when Allah spoke to him in the sacred valley of Tuwâ. He was given two miracles by Allah and on Moses’ request, his brother Aaronwas appointed as his assistant. Allah had been caring for Moses since his infancy when his mother was directed to cast the baby into the river. Under Allah’s supervision he grew up in the house of Pharaoh and then escaped to Madyan.

Allah commanded Moses and Aaron to go to the Pharaoh and speak to him ‘with gentle speech that perhaps he may be reminded or fear (Allah).’ Moses said that they feared the repercussions of advising the tyrant, Allah said, ‘Fear not. Indeed I am with you both; I hear and I see.’

Pharaoh stubbornly refused to heed the message of Allah. Pharaoh ordered his magicians to publicly confront and outdo Moses’ miraculous staff, but to no avail. On the contrary they sorcerers recognized the Truth and submitted to the one true Lord despite the fury of Pharaoh. Moses  rescued his people from Pharaoh’s cruelty and led them out of Egypt on a dry path through the sea. But they were led astray by the Samiri who convinced them to worship a golden calf. Moses ordered the Samiri to be shunned and the golden idol was to be burnt to ashes.

Satan has been misleading man since Adam, but whoever follow Allah’s guidance will neither go astray in this life nor suffer in the next.

Towards the end of this surah we are ordered to enjoin the duty of prayer salah upon our families and must remain steadfast in doing so.

Sûrah Al-Anbiya’ (The Prophets)

Distracted Driving

The people’s accountability is coming soon, but they are turning away in heedlessness. When revelation comes to them, they are listening to  it while they are at play, with their hearts distracted.

And how many a city which was unjust have We shattered and produced after it another people. And We sent not before you any messenger except that We revealed to him that, ‘There is none to be worshipped but Me, so worship Me.’

Study Allah’s Creation and pay attention to the signs. Every soul shall taste death. And if as much as a whiff of the  punishment of your Lord should touch them, they would definitely say,’O woe to us. Indeed we have been wrongdoers.’ Allah will ‘set up scales of justice, so that not a soul will be dealt with unjustly in the least and sufficient are We as an accountant.’

During tonight’s Taraweeh, may we pay attention to Allah’s signs with patience and firm faith.

Abbreviations

s.w.t  – Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

a.s – Alayhis Salam– (Prophets, pious ones) on whom be peace

s.a.w – SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace

Sacred journeys of Man: 12th Taraweeh summary 2020

Sacred Journeys of Man

Tonight’s Taraweeh consists of the last ¼  of juz 14 & the whole of juz 15.

The Sûrahs covered are ½ of An-Nahl (The Bee), Banî Isrâ’îl (The Children of Israel) & ¾  of Al- Kahf (The Cave).

Sûrah An-Nahl (The Bee) contd.

Profit & Loss

Allah Almighty reminds us not to compromise our religion for  mere worldly profit. ‘Indeed whatever you have will end but what Allah has is more enduring…whoever does righteousness, male or female, as a Believer – We will surely cause him to live a good life.’ And on the Day of Judgement every soul will come pleading for itself and every soul will be fully compensated for what it did and they will not be treated unjustly.

And remember when the safe and secure city (Makkah) denied the favours of Allah. So Allah made it taste famine and fear due to its rejection of the Messenger s.a.w . We are reminded to eat the lawful and good food that Allah has provided us, ‘be grateful for the favour of Allah, if it is (indeed) Him that you worship.’

Use wisdom and good instruction when inviting people to the way of your Lord. Indeed Allah is with those who fear Him and those who are doers of good.

Sûrah Banî Isrâ’îl

Prophetic Journey

The main theme of the next four Sûrahs is the spiritual history of individuals rather than nations.

The Sûrah begins with the Mi’râj (Ascension of Muhammad s.a.w). He was transported from the Sacred Mosque of Makkah to the Farthest Mosque (of Jerusalem) and shown some of the Signs of Allah (swt). Rasulullah (s.a.w) gained the honour of seeing great mysteries. These are related in the Qur’ân to make Allah’s Signs clear to men & to guide them.

Allah says, ‘If you do well, you do well for yourselves.’ The reverse applies for doing Evil. Allah  bestows His favours freely on all, more on some than on others, but the gifts of the Hereafter are greater in excellence.

Love and serve Allah’s creatures if you want to serve Allah (swt) well: our parents; kinsmen, the needy & wayfarers. Even a word of kindness is charity. Do not kill your children out of fear of need, nor come near to adultery, nor take life – which Allah has made holy – except for a just cause. Do not go near the orphan’s property. Be just in your measuring and weighing and do not walk proudly on the earth.

Say only those things that are good because (otherwise) Satan sows disunity among the people. Hope for His Mercy (but) fear His Anger. Man was honoured above much of Allah’s Creation, & has great responsibilities. Allah addresses the Prophet Muhammad that indeed they (the Makkan polytheists) were about to evict him from the land. But Allah promises that they will  remain there only for a little while longer.

The Qur’ân is a healing & a mercy to the Believers, full of diverse examples. It has been divided up into parts and revealed gradually. Indeed those who knew the scripture of old  fall humbly into tearful prostration upon hearing the words of the Qur’ân.

Sûrah Al-Kahf (The Cave)

Worldly Migrations. Heavenly Destination.

The Qur’ân has been sent down as a warning and bearer of good news. This planet is to test which of us is best in deed.

Consider the story of the young Believers who were fleeing from a cruel leader. They asked Allah for Mercy & prayed to Him to ease their problems. They received refuge in a cave where they lay asleep for many years.  Once they awoke they asked one another, ‘How long have we stayed here?’  Someone speculated, ‘(Perhaps) a day, or part of a day’. Eventually they all agreed, ‘Allah knows best how long we stayed here’.  The incident shows us that the life of the Companions of the Cave is a mystery that can be understood by only a few. Man’s knowledge is uncertain. Only Allah is the All-Knower; therefore, learn from the Qur’ân.

Allah tells us the story of the man who was obsessed with his rich and abundant lands. His arrogant beliefs made him feel almost invulnerable.  So Allah destroyed this property to make the man realise the Truth. This life is as uncertain and variable as rain-water which falls on the ground but soon vanishes. Good deeds are best as rewards & foundations for our hopes.

What does your journey look like this Ramadan and beyond?

Abbreviations

s.w.t  – Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

a.s – Alayhis Salam– (Prophets, pious ones) on whom be peace

s.a.w – SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace

Hearts At Peace: 11th Taraweeh summary 2020

 

Hearts at Peace

Tonight’s taraweeh consists of the second ½  of  juz 13 & ¾  of juz 14. The Sûrahs covered are 2/3 of no. 13 Ar-Ra’d (Thunder), no.14 Ibrâhîm (Abraham), no.15 Al-Hijr (The Stone Valley) & half of no.16 An-Nahl (The Bee).

Sûrah Ar-Ra’d

Hearts at peace with Allah’s remembrance

Allah Almighty promises Gardens of perpetual residence for the Believers. They will enter them with their family members who were righteous, while the angels will call out greetings of peace. Surely in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest and reassurance.  But the consequence for the Disbelievers is the Fire.

Sûrah Ibrâhîm

Prayer for Security & Roots of Stability

Here Allah swt’s Message through revelation is explained through the stories of the Prophets Moses & Abraham.

He sent down His message in the language of the people in order to make it clear to them. Moses, like the other Prophets was offered more or less the same excuses by the naysayers. But the deeds of disbelief will amount to nothing, like ashes swept away in a storm.

Consider that a word of faith is like  a good tree with roots that are stable and fruit that is constant. While a word of disbelief is like a bad tree that is unstable and uprooted.

Allah Almighty then tells us about the famous prayer of Prophet Abraham. He asked His Lord that Makkah be kept secure and that he and his family be safe from idolatry. Not only did he pray for his family, who is to establish prayer in Makkah, but he prayed for the city and the forgiveness of all believers.

Sûrah Al-Hijr (The Stone Valley)

Do not give up on Allah’s Mercy

Allah swt confirms that most definitely He will guard His Revelation. But His signs & revelations are not meant for those who mock. Look at the majesty, beauty & order in His creation, including men and jinn.

But Iblis, who was of the jinn threatens that he will make sin attractive to mankind. But Iblis will not be able to misguide the chosen ones. Indeed the righteous will be instructed to enter gardens and springs of peace and safety. No resentment will they feel nor fatigue.

The same angels sent by Allah to destroy the corrupt people of Lot’s community were sent to Abraham with a message of Allah’s Mercy. Prophet Abraham mentions to the angels, ‘And who despairs of the mercy of His Lord except for those astray?’

Allah would have been Merciful to the People of the Thicket (Madyan) and of the Stone Valley (Thamud) had they obeyed Allah’s signs.Do not dwell on the temporary enjoyment of the disbelievers, rather look forward and worship your Lord until the time of certainty (death).

Sûrah An-Nahl ( The Bee)

Follow the Signs

This Sûrah looks at how nature points to its Creator. Everything in creation glorifies Allah (swt). He has created various animals & made subject to us the night and the day, the sun, the moon, the sea, the mountains. These are signs of Allah “for men who are thoughtful”. Yet there are people who have always tried to plot against Allah’s natural way, but they failed. They were punished in unexpected ways by the elements of nature. Everything in Allah’s creation from the shadows to the angels prostrates itself humbly to Allah. And consider that Allah inspires the bees to construct hives and  produce honey with powers of healing. Indeed in that is a sign for people who reflect.

May we crave peaceful hearts, secure lives and eternal guidance from our Lord in tonight’s taraweeh.

Abbreviations

s.w.t  – Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

a.s – Alayhis Salam– (Prophets, pious ones) on whom be peace

s.a.w – SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace

Ancient History: Modern Lessons. 10th Taraweeh Summary 2020

Ancient History. Modern Lessons.

Tonight’s Taraweeh consists of  3/4 of juz 12 & first 1/2 of juz 13.

Sûrahs no. 11 Hûd (last part), no. 12 Yûsuf (Joseph) & the first 1/3  of Ar-Ra’d (Thunder).

Sûrah Hûd

The efforts of the believers to reform ancient societies

Hûd a.s preached to his people, the ‘Ad, to worship Allah alone.  He reminded them of the worldly benefits, ‘Repent to Him. He will send (rain from) the sky upon you in showers & increase you in strength.’ But when they turned away, Hud warned them that Allah s.w.t will replace them with another nation. ‘And when Our command came, We saved Hud and those who believed with him…and We saved them from a harsh punishment.’

Sâlih appealed to his people, the prosperous community of Thamud, to go back to the worship of Allah alone. They began to make excuses about him. They said how they used to hold him in high regard but ever since he challenged their traditions, they have started to doubt him. They were tested with a miraculous she-camel that was not to be harmed. Instead, they hamstrung her. ‘So when Our command came, We saved Salih and those who believed with him..from the disgrace of that day..and the blast seized those who had wronged…as if they had never prospered therein.’

Abraham pleaded for the corrupt people of Lot’s community to be saved from Allah’s Punishment. Lût (as) asked them to change their promiscuous ways, but to no avail. The angels instructed Lût to set out with his family at night as the punishment was to arrive in the morning. Shu’aib’s people, the Madianites, were also warned against corruption. But they refused to give up idolatry and fraudulent business practices.

‘And when Our command came, We saved Shu’ayb and those who believed with him…and the blast seized those who had wronged..as if they had never prospered therein.’

Allah reminds us of the importance of social reform. If only there had been more than just those few ‘people of discernment who forbade corruption. But those who did wrong pursued what luxury they were given therein, and they were criminals. And your Lord would not have destroyed the cities unjustly while their people were reformers.’

Sûrah Yûsuf

A dream come true

This surah takes us through the story of Joseph (Yûsuf ), one of the 12 sons of  Jacob (Ya’qûb). It is called ‘the most beautiful of stories’ as: (1) it is the most detailed story in the Qur’ân; (2) it is full of the ups & downs of human fortune which everyone can relate to (3) it describes fully with their moral meanings, the different walks of life & people’s attitudes.

We see the elderly Ya’qûb’s love for  his young son, the elder brothers’ jealousy of Yûsuf, their plot & their father’s sorrow. We see lust contrasted with purity & modesty, innocence raised to honour. We learn about Yusuf’s ministerial policies and his remembrance of Allah  even as a high ranking official.

Jealousy had caused Yusuf’s brothers to plot his disappearance. After being sold into slavery, a high court official in Egypt (‘Azîz) bought & adopted Yusuf. The ‘Azîz’s wife tried without success to seduce him. Because he refused she decided to take revenge on him. He was falsely accused & sent to jail. Even there he taught the truth & was known for his kindness.

The King had a dream, which Yûsuf interpreted. The King wanted to release him, but before his release Yûsuf made it clear that all gossip against him should be publicly cleared. The King was much impressed & made Yûsuf his Chief Minister. His brothers came to Egypt to buy grain as there was a drought in Canaan. He treated them kindly without making himself known to them. He detained his youngest brother Benjamin by means of a plan which then led to Yûsuf revealing his identity to them. He forgave them & sent them to bring the rest of the family to Egypt. Thus was Ya’qûb reunited with his long lost son. Surely, Allah is the loving protector of the believers in both worlds.

Sûrah Ar-Ra’d: This Sûrah details Allah’s signs in the natural wonders of the world. Firstly Allah reveals His message through His creation: the earth & the sky. He also reveals His message by revelation. One can see life & death following each other at all times; after the lifelessness of winter comes spring. Astonishingly the Unbelievers ask: ‘When we are dust, shall we actually then be a new creation?’  They mock the idea that Allah will punish them because Allah’s punishment has not reached them yet for their wrongs. They want to see signs of His Power rather than of His mercy. Hear then the mighty thunder that praises Allah, as do the magnificent angels: both serve Him and deal with mankind as He wills. 

During tonight’s Taraweeh, as we complete 10 nights of Ramadan alhamdulillah, may we reflect on Allah’s power over the wrongdoers and His protecting care for the believers in the most unexpected ways.

Abbreviations

s.w.t  – Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

a.s – Alayhis Salam– (Prophets, pious ones) on whom be peace

s.a.w – SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace

Turning back to God: 9th Taraweeh summary 2020

 

Turning Back To God

Tonight’s Taraweeh consists of juz 11 & first ¼ of juz 12.

Sûrah no. 9 At-Taubah (Repentance) verse 93-end.

No.10 Yûnus (Jonah) & the first ½ of no.11 Hûd.

Sûrah  At-Taubah:

Sticking to the Path

Allah s.w.t mentions His pleasure with the believers who followed the Prophet s.a.w during a period of severe stress (the intense heat & scarce supplies during the Battle of Tabuk). A group of them had almost inclined to doubt, but they repented and Allah forgave them. He also accepted the repentance of the 3 who were left behind and were regretful to the point that ‘the earth closed in on them despite its vastness…indeed Allah is Accepting of repentance, the Merciful.’

People who continue with their unfaith, hypocrisy & mischief have no hope of Allah’s mercy. A few Muslims must remain behind when the others go out to fight for the Cause of Islam, so that ‘they may devote themselves to studies in religion & warn the people.’ Every sûrah increases the faith of the Believers, ‘but for those in whose hearts is a disease, it will add disbelief to their disbelief.’

Sûrah Yûnus

Heed The Message & The Messenger

To the amazement of people, Allah has revealed His message of Oneness to a (mere) man of their own race. The disbelievers condemn Allah’s Messenger as an ‘obvious magician.’ Yet it is in the perfect creation of the universe & the great uses of creation that one can feel the presence of Allah’s Message & His signs. He has created the sun and the moon ‘that you might know…the count (of time).’  Allah enables you to travel  by ship and when the disbelievers think they are doomed at sea they turn to Allah with full sincerity. But as soon as He has saved them they disbelieve and ‘commit injustice on the earth.’

‘And it was not possible for this Quran to be produced by other than Allah, a confirmation of what was before it.’ No people can ever claim that Allah did not reveal His Truth to them because ‘an Apostle (was sent) to every people.’ Allah’s Justice will be seen clearly when Allah punishes the wicked. “Surely Allah will not deal unfairly with man in any matter: it is man that wrongs his own soul.”

Allah revealed Himself through Noah – Nûh – (a.s) but his people rejected him; so they perished. A similar fate was earned by Pharaoh during Moses – Mûsâ’s – time. Pharaoh repented, but it was too late. But in the case of Jonah – Yûnus – his people accepted the Truth and Allah was merciful to them.  Follow Allah’s Truth & be patient. Surely Allah is the best Judge.

Sûrah Hûd

The Message is for all, not specfic groups.

Allah says that the Messenger instructs us, ‘Seek forgiveness of Your Lord and repent to Him, He will let you enjoy a good provision for a specified term and give every doer of favor his favor (i.e. reward). But if you turn away, then indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a great Day.’

The Prophet Noah  humbly preached the Truth of Allah (swt) for centuries. Those from the upper classes who rejected him said they see him as just a man like themselves ‘and you are only followed by the lower classes.’ Noah said that he is not interested in material gain,’my reward is from only Allah…I see that you are a people behaving ignorantly.’ He was mocked and rejected while he built his Ark under Allah’s directions. He and the believers were saved, with peace & blessings, while the rejecters were drowned in the flood.

May we turn our hearts humbly towards Allah, the All Forgiving, during tonight’s Taraweeh.

Abbreviations

s.w.t –  Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

a.s – Alayhis Salam– (Prophets, pious ones) on whom be peace

s.a.w – SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace

Steadfast In a Storm: 8th Taraweeh summary 2020

 

Steadfast In a Storm

Tonight’s taraweeh consists of the last quarter of Juz 9 and all of Juz 10. The Sûrahs covered are no. 8 Al-Anfâl (The Spoils of War) and no. 9 At-Taubah (Repentance) till verse 92. At-Taubah is the only Sûrah that begins without the prefixing of Bismillâh (In the Name of Allah).

Sûrah Al-Anfâl

If you are patient & steadfast, Allah is on  your side  

This sûrah begins a new series. The lessons of the Battle of Badr are re-emphasised with instructions on: (1) the question of the war booty; (2) the good qualities needed for fighting in the Path of Allah (swt) ; (3) victory against great odds; (4) merciful treatment of enemies in the hour of victory. An analysis of the Battle of Badr shows that even if your enemies are greater in number and have better weapons and war tactics, you will gain victory if Allah is on your side.

Those who help Allah’s cause will be helped by Him, since “there is no help except from Allah ”. “Never turn your backs to the enemies (i.e. flee).” Regard the eventual victory as Allah’s, not yours. Therefore obey Allah and His Messenger. Be steadfast, stay united and remember Allah much that you may be successful.”  “And if they incline to peace, then incline to it (also).” Treat non- Muslim captives with honour and kindness. Do not argue about the spoils of war because they are “at the disposal of Allah and the Messenger (s.a.w).”

Sûrah At-Taubah

Breaking peace treaties

A very important question is dealt with: what must be done if the enemy breaks the peace treaty and is guilty of wrongdoing? “Dissolve (treaty) obligation with the Pagans,” if they keep on breaking their treaties. But give the Pagans 4 months to change their habits and to repent. If there is no change, fight them. But if any asks for protection “grant it to him,” so that he may hear “Allah’s word.” Now only believers will have the right to come to the Sacred Mosque (in Makkah).

Don’t be a couch potato

“O believers, what is the matter with you that, when you are told to go forth in the cause of Allah, you cling heavily to the earth? Are you satisfied with the life of this world rather than the hereafter? But what is the enjoyment of worldly life compared to the Hereafter except a little.”

Spend your wealth for the greater good. Do not hoard it or misuse it – otherwise there will be consequences.

Tears of sincerity

“Do not offer excuses like the Hypocrites did – do your duty. The hypocrites’ efforts were rejected as they lacked sincerity, were lazy about their prayers and would mock Allah’s Messenger. Do not let their wealth & families impress you, they will be tried by them in this life. The hypocrites enjoined what is wrong and forbade what is right and closed up their hands.

Rather, be like the obedient believers who enjoined what is right, forbade what is wrong and gave generously. Those who are sincere but without means are not to be blamed. When they came to the Messenger, he had no more mounts for them, so “they turned back while their eyes overflowed with tears out of grief that they could not find something to spend (for Allah’s cause).”

May we reflect on these lessons of steadfastness and sincerity tonigh.

Abbreviations

swt   Subhanahu wa Ta’ala – (Allah) The Glorious, the Exalted

saw  SalAllahu alayhi Wa sallam – (Muhammad) on whom be peace