Pearls Of Wisdom

Untuk Mencapai Kebahagiaan

2006-12-10T21:35:00.000+08:00

Kebahagiaan memiliki tanda-tanda, sebagaimana disebutkan oleh Imam Ibnul Qayyim rahimahullah. Beliau menyebutkan tiga perkara iaitu:

1. Jika mendapat nikmat, dia bersyukur.
2. Jika mendapat ujian, dia bersabar.
3. Jika berbuat dosa, dia beristighfar.

Untuk Mendapat Bahagia

Untuk mencapai kebahagiaan dan kejayaan adalah sebagai berikut, perhatikan perkara berikut:
1. Beriman Kepada Allah s.w.t.

Tidak ada kebahagiaan tanpa iman kepada Allah s.w.t. Kebahagiaan itu akan bertambah seiring dengan bertambahnya iman seseorang kepada Allah s.w.t., dan akan berkurang bersama dengan lemahnya iman kepada-Nya. Apabila iman semakin teguh maka makin memuncak pula kebahagiaannya. Sebaliknya jika iman menjadi lemah, maka jiwanya menjadi goncang dan fikirannya menjadi semakin negatif. Dia akan berasa kehidupan ini amat pahit dan dia akhirnya ditimpa kebinasaan dalam hidupnya.

2. Beriman kepada Kekuasaan Allah s.w.t.

Orang yang beriman bahwa Allah s.w.t. adalah yang Maha Kuasa, tanpa had, maka dia tidak akan dirundung duka. Dia tidak akan disapa kesedihan kerana dia mempunyai tempat bersandar yang kuat ketika ditimpa ujian dan kesulitan.

3. Beriman dengan Ketetapan Allah s.w.t

Iman dengan qadha' dan qadar akan menumbuhkan sikap redha dalam hati, kelapangan jiwa dan ketenangan. Oleh kerana itu Nabi s.a.w bersabda,
"Sungguh menakjubkan urusan seorang mukmin, sesungguhnya seluruh urusannya adalah baik. Jika diberi nikmat maka dia bersyukur dan itu adalah baik baginya. Dan jika ditimpa kesempitan, maka dia bersabar dan itu pun baik baginya. (HR Muslim)

4. Mencontohi Orang yang Berjaya

Yang dimaksudkan di sini adalah orang yang telah menaburkan jasa yang besar dan luar biasa kepada umat manusia dan dia adalah orang yang beriman kepada Allah s.w.t . Yang pertama dan utama adalah ikutan kita Rasulullah Muhammad s.a.w Dengan mengikuti jalannya, maka seseorang akan bahagia dan dengan meninggalkan petunjuk dan sunnahnya, maka seseorang akan celaka.

5. Mengenali Hakikat Kehidupan

Hidup pasti akan berhadapan dengan masalah dan kesusahan dan pasti ada rintangan dan ujian. Semua ini merupakan ketetapan dari Allah s.w.t. terhadap manusia, supaya diketahui siapakah yang lebih baik amalnya. Maka wajib bagi kita untuk mengenal hakikat hidup ini dan menerima sebagaimana sepatutnya dan tidak melarikan diri untuk menghadapi ketentuan Allah dengan ketentuan lainnya, menghadapi yang tidak kita senangi dengan sesuatu yang dapat menghilangkannya. Mengetahui permasalahan ini bukan bererti menyerah kalah dan putus asa, malah bersikap sebaliknya.

6. Mengubah Kebiasaan Negatif Kepada Positif

Doktor Ahmad Al-Bara' Al-Amiri mengatakan bahawa memulai kebiasaan baru yang bersifat aqliyah (mampu digarap dan dipikirkan) itu tidaklah sukar , diperlukan hanya sekitar 21 hari. Dalam hari-hari tersebut kita berfikir, bermuzakarah, lalu berusaha untuk mewujudkan kebiasaan baru itu, dan yang paling akhir kita bayangkan dengan jelas dan sempurna bahwa diri kita telah menjadi seperti apa yang kita inginkan.

Jika kita berfikir bahwa kita telah menjadi orang baru sebagaimana yang kita kehendaki, maka gambaran ini secara perlahan-lahan dan berperingkat akan menjadi suatu realiti. Hal ini seperti diungkapkan bahwa "al hilm bittahallum wal ilm bitta'allum" sikap lembut dicapai dengan selalu berusaha lembut dan ilmu itu diraih dengan belajar. (Durus nafsiyah linnajah wattafawwuq)

7. Tujuan Yang Mulia

Ramai orang yang gagal kerana dia tidak mempunyai objektif dan tujuan tertentu untuk dicapai. Ataupun mungkin dia mempunyai satu tujuan tetapi tujuannya bukan sesuatu yang mulia dan tinggi menyebabkan ia tidak merasa bahagia tatkala berusaha mendapatkannya. Sedangkan tujuan yang mulia akan menjadikan seseorang merasa bahagia ketika sedang berusaha untuk mencapainya.

8. Ringankan Derita

Orang hidup pasti mengalami musibah dan derita, namun tidak sepatutnya musibah itu dianggap sebagai titik noktah kepada segalanya, dan jangan beranggapan bahwa hanya dirinya seorang yang mendapat ujian hidup. Bahkan sepatutntya dia merasa ringan dengan musibah dan tidak terlalu membesar-besarkannya.

9. Jangan Membuatkan Kita Resah Disebabkan Perkara-Perkara Kecil.

Ada sebahagian manusia merasa resah dan kalut dengan kejadian-kejadian biasa dan lumrah dalam kehidupan seharian. Di antara mereka ada yang begitu sedih dengan pecahnya piring atau gelas, saluran air atau kabel yang terputus, baju yang koyak dan lain-lain yang sebenarnya perkara biasa sahaja.

10. Kebahagiaan Ada Pada Diri Anda

Jika bahagia itu ada pada diri kita, maka mengapa mesti mencarinya di tempat yang jauh. Setiap manusia mempunyai kekuatan dan potensi untuk bahagia, tetapi kebanyakan mereka tidak mahu melihatnya. Sebabnya adalah kerana dia tidak pernah memperhatikan diri sendiri, tetapi sibuk melihat orang lain.

Kebahagiaan itu kadang-kadang ada di depan mata, tetapi kita tidak mengetahuinya, sehingga terpaksa mencarinya dari tempat yang jauh dan semakin jauh. (Khalif Muttaqin)

Diadaptasi dari terjemahan dari buku: â€˜Daliluka Ila As-Saâ€™adah An-Nafsiyahâ€™, Dept. Ilmiyah Darul Wathan

Allah Knows Best

2006-12-10T21:31:00.000+08:00

ALLAH knows what is best for us
So why should we complain
We always want the sunshine
But He knows there must be rain.
We always want laughter
and the merriment of cheer
but our heart will lose their tenderness
If we never shed a tear.

ALLAH tests us often
with suffering and sorrow
He tests us not to punish us
but to help us meet tomorrow.
For growing trees are strenghtened
if they can withstand the storm
and the sharpness of the chisel
gave the marble its grace and form.

ALLAH tests us often
and for every pain
He gives us
provided we are patient
Is followed by rich gain
So whenever we feel that
everything is going wrong
It is just ALLAH'S way to make our spirit strong.

- Author Unknown

"And When I Am Ill, It Is He Who Cures Me" Surah Al-Shu'ara-Ayah 80.

2006-12-02T00:43:00.000+08:00

Here are some pieces of advice that have been passed down to us from the wise regarding different issues.

Abqaraat said: "Stay healthy longer by working hard, by avoiding laziness, by abjuring drinking, and by refraining from eating too much."

Some of the wise said: "Whoever wants health should eat properly and well. He should drink water moderately. Lying down after eating lunch and walking after dinner are recommended. And one should be wary about taking a shower right after filling oneself with food."

Al-Haarith said: "Whoever wants to stay - and there is no true stay (meaning life is transient and will come to an end) - should eat lunch and dinner early."

Four things weaken the body:
talking too much
sleeping too much
eating too much
engaging in sexual intercourse too frequently

Talking too much weakens the strength and sharpness of the mind and makes one age faster. Sleeping too much blinds the heart, making one lazy and callous. Having intercourse too often weakens one's strength and has harmful effects upon the body in general.

Four things destroy the body:
anxiety
grief
hunger
sleeplessness

Four things bring serenity to the heart:
to look at greenery
to look at flowing water
to see a loved one
to gaze at fruits upon the trees

Four things weaken one's eyesight:
walking barefoot
having a frown on one's face early in the morning and before going to sleep
crying frequently
reading words in small print

Four things strengthen the body:
wearing soft clothing
taking a shower using water of a moderate temperature
eating sweet and rich foods
smelling pleasant odours

Four things take the mirth and freshness out of one's face:
lying
insolence
asking too many questions imprudently
perpetrating evil deeds frequently

Four things bring light and mirth to one's face:
a sense of honour
fulfilling one's commitments
generosity
piety

Four things make others abhor and loathe you:
arrogance
jealousy
lying
spreading false rumours about others

Four things make sustenance come to you freely:
standing up at night to pray
making repentance late in the night
giving charity habitually
remembering Allah in the first and last part of the day

Four things weaken one's mind and understanding:
constantly eating sour foods and fruit
sleeping on one's back
worrying
feeling anxious

Four things help one to improve one's understanding:
having a light heart
not overfilling oneself with food and drink
adding sweet and rich foods in moderation to one's diet
getting rid of extra body fat

Details Taken From - "Don't Be Sad" by Shaykh Aaidh Al-Qarni.

Andainya kasih hendak ku berikan..

2006-11-24T22:47:00.000+08:00

"Kasih manusia sering bermusim, sayang manusia tiada abadi. Kasih Tuhan tiada bertepi, sayang Tuhan janjiNya pasti." Itulah sedikit dari bait-bait lagu Raihan. Lantaran kasih manusia yg sering bermusim dan sayangnya yang tidak kekal lama, kita perlu sentiasa berwaspada terutamanya dalam memilih pasangan. Andainya sikit daripada cinta itu hendak diberi pada seseorang yang boleh digelar suami, pilihlah seorang lelaki yang...

1-Kuat agamanya.
Biar sibuk macamana, solat fardu tetap terpelihara. Utamakanlah pemuda yang kuat pengamalan agamanya. Lihat saja Rasulullah menerima pinangan Saidina Ali buat puterinya Fatimah. Lantaran ketaqwaannya yang tinggi biarpun dia pemuda paling miskin.

2-Baik akhlaknya.
Ketegasannya nyata tapi dia lembut dan bertolak-ansur hakikatnya. Sopan tutur kata gambaran peribadi dan hati yang mulia. Rasa hormatnya pada warga tua ketara.

3-Tegas mempertahankan maruah.
Pernahkah dia menjengah ke tempat-tempat yang menjatuhkan kredibiliti dan maruahnya sebagai seorang Islam.

4-Amanah
Jika dia pernah mengabaikan tugas yang diberi dengan sengaja ditambah pula salah guna kuasa, lupakan saja si dia.

5-Tidak boros
Dia bukanlah kedekut tapi tahu membelanjakan wang dengan bijaksana. Setiap nikmat yang ada dikongsi bersama mereka yang berhak.

6-Tidak liar matanya
Perhatikan apakah matanya kerap meliar ke arah perempuan lain yang lalu-lalang ketika berbicara. Jika ya jawabnya, dia bukanlah calon yang sesuai buat kamu.

7-Terbatas pergaulan
Sebagai lelaki dia tahu dia tak mudah jadi fitnah orang, dan dia tak amalkan cara hidup bebas.

8-Rakan pergaulannya.
Rakan-rakan pergaulannya adalah mereka yang sepertinya.

9-Bertanggungjawab
Rasa tanggungjawabnya dapat diukur kepada sejauh mana dia memperuntukkan dirinya untuk ibubapa dan ahli keluarganya. Jika ibubapanya hidup melarat sedang dia hidup hebat, nyata dia tak bertanggungjawab

10-Tenang wajah
Apa yang tersimpan di dalam sanubari kadang - kadang terpancar pada air muka. Wajahnya tenang, setenang sewaktu dia bercakap dan bertindak.

Berbahagialah kamu jika dicintai calon yang demikian sifatnya. Ya Allah, mampukah aku mendapat keredhaan-Mu dan naungan-Mu di Padang Masyhar kelak...

~ Sumber: Ukhwah.com

Pesanan Roh Kepada Manusia

2006-06-22T15:29:00.000+08:00

Buat tatapan dan peringatan kepada semua.
Apabila roh keluar dari jasad, ia akan berkata-kata dan seluruh isi alam sama ada di langit atau bumi akan mendengarnya kecuali jin dan manusia.

Apabila mayat dimandikan, lalu roh berkata : "Wahai orang yang memandikan, aku minta kepadamu kerana Allah untuk melepaskan pakaianku dengan perlahan-lahan sebab pada saat ini aku beristirahat daripada seretan malaikat maut".

Selepas itu, mayat pula bersuara sambil merayu :"Wahai orang yang memandikan, janganlah engkau menuang- kan airmu dalam keadaan panas. Begitu juga jangan menuangnya dengan air yang dingin kerana tubuhku terbakar apabila terlepasnya roh dari tubuh".

Apabila dimandikan, roh sekali lagi merayu : "Demi Allah,wahai orang yang memandikan jangan engkau menggosok aku dengan kuat sebab tubuhku luka-luka dengan keluarnya roh".

Setelah dimandi dan dikafankan, telapak kaki mayat diikatkan ia pun memanggil-manggil dan berpesan lagi supaya jangan diikat terlalu kuat serta mengafani kepalanya kerana ingin melihat wajahnya sendiri, anak-anak, isteri atau suami buat kali terakhir kerana tidak dapat melihat lagi sampai Hari Kiamat.

Sebaik keluar dari rumah lalu ia berpesan : "Demi Allah, wahai jemaahku, aku telah meniggalkan isteriku menjadi janda. Maka janganlah kamu menyakitinya. Anak-anakku telah menjadi yatim dan janganlah kalian menyakiti mereka. Sesungguhnya pada hari itu aku telah keluar dari rumahku dan aku tidak akan dapat kembali kepada mereka buat selama-lamanya".

Sesudah mayat diletakkan pada pengusung, sekali lagi diserunya kepada jemaah supaya jangan mempercepat- kan mayatnya ke kubur selagi belum mendengar suara anak-anak dan sanak saudara buat kali terakhir.

Sesudah dibawa dan melangkah sebanyak tiga langkah dari rumah, roh pula berpesan: "Wahai Kekasihku, wahai saudaraku dan wahai anak-anakku, jangan kamu diperdaya dunia sebagaimana ia memperdayakan aku dan janganlah kamu lalai ketika ini sebagaimana ia melalaikan aku".

"Sesungguhnya aku tinggalkan apa yang aku telah aku kumpulkan untuk warisku dan sedikitpun mereka tidak mahu menanggung kesalahanku".

"Adapun didunia, Allah menghisab aku, padahal kamu berasa senang dengan keduniaan. Dan mereka juga tidak mahu mendoakan aku."

Ada satu riwayat drp Abi Qalabah mengenai mimpi beliau yang melihat kubur pecah. Lalu mayat-mayat itu keluar dari duduk di tepi kubur masing masing. Bagaimanapun tidak seorang pun ada tanda-tanda memperolehi nur di muka mereka. Dalam mimpi itu, Abi Qalabah dapat melihat jirannya juga dalam keadaan yang sama.

Lalu dia bertanya kepada mayat jirannya mengenai ketiadaan nur itu. Maka mayat itu menjawab: "Sesungguh- nya bagi mereka yang memperolehi nur adalah kerana petunjuk drpd anak-anak dan teman-teman. Sebaliknya aku mempunyai anak-anak yang tidak soleh dan tidak pernah mendoakan aku".

Setelah mendengar jawapan mayat itu, Abi Qalabah pun terjaga. Pada malam itu juga dia memanggil anak jirannya dan menceritakan apa yang dilihatnya dalam mimpi mengenai bapa mereka. Mendengar keadaan itu, anak-anak jiran itu berjanji di hadapan Abi Qalabah akan mendoa dan bersedekah untuk bapanya. Seterusnya tidak lama selepas itu, Abi Qalabah sekali lagi bermimpi melihat jirannya. Bagaimanapun kali ini jirannya sudah ada nur dimukanya dan kelihatan lebih terang daripada matahari.

Baginda Rasullullah S.A.W berkata:

"Apabila telah sampai ajal seseorang itu maka akan masuklah satu kumpulan malaikat ke dalam lubang-lubang kecil dalam badan dan kemudian mereka menarik rohnya melalui kedua-dua telapak kakinya sehingga sampai kelutut.

Setelah itu datang pula sekumpulan malaikat yang lain masuk menarik roh dari lutut hingga sampai ke perut dan kemudiannya mereka keluar.

Datang lagi satu kumpulan malaikat yang lain masuk dan menarik rohnya dari perut hingga sampai ke dada dan kemudiannya mereka keluar. Dan akhir sekali datang lagi satu kumpulan malaikat masuk dan menarik roh dari dadanya hingga sampai ke kerongkong dan itulah yang dikatakan saat nazak orang itu."

Sambung Rasullullah S.A.W. lagi: "Kalau orang yang nazak itu orang yang beriman, maka malaikat Jibrail A.S. akan menebarkan sayapnya yang di sebelah kanan sehingga orang yang nazak itu dapat melihat kedudukannya di syurga. Apabila orang yang beriman itu melihat syurga, maka dia akan lupa kepada orang yang berada di sekelilinginya. Ini adalah kerana sangat rindunya pada syurga dan melihat terus pandangannya kepada sayap Jibrail A.S."

Kalau orang yang nazak itu orang munafik, maka Jibrail A.S.akan menebarkan sayap di sebelahkiri. Maka orang yang nazak tu dapat melihat kedudukannya di neraka dan dalam masa itu orang itu tidak lagi melihat orang di sekelilinginya. Ini adalah kerana terlalu takutnya apabila melihat neraka yang akan menjadi tempat tinggalnya.

Dari sebuah hadis bahawa apabila Allah S.W.T. menghendaki seorang mukmin itu dicabut nyawanya maka datanglah malaikat maut.

Apabila malaikat maut hendak mencabut roh orang mukmin itu dari arah mulut maka keluarlah zikir dari mulut orang mukmin itu dengan berkata:

"Tidak ada jalan bagimu mencabut roh orang ini melalui jalan ini kerana orang ini sentiasa menjadikan lidahnya berziki kepada Allah S.W.T."

Setelah malaikat maut mendengar penjelasan itu, maka dia pun kembali kepada Allah S.W.T. dan menjelaskan apa yang diucapkan oleh lidah orang mukmin itu. Lalu Allah S.W.T. berfirman yang bermaksud: "Wahai malaikat maut, kamu cabutlah ruhnya dari arah lain."

Sebaik saja malaikat maut mendapat perintah Allah S.W.T. maka malaikat maut pun cuba mencabut roh orang mukmin dari arah tangan. Tapi keluarlah sedekah dari arah tangan orang mukmin itu, keluarlah usapan kepala anak-anak yatim dan keluar penulisan ilmu. Maka berkata tangan: "Tidak ada jalan bagimu untuk mencabut roh orang mukmin dari arah ini, tangan ini telah mengeluarkan sedekah, tangan ini mengusap kepala anak-anak yatim dan tangan ini menulis ilmu pengetahuan."

Oleh kerana malaikat maut gagal untuk mencabut roh orang mukmin dari arah tangan maka malaikat maut cuba pula dari arah kaki. Malangnya malaikat maut juga gagal melakukan sebab kaki berkata: "Tidak ada jalan bagimu dari arah ini kerana kaki ini sentiasa berjalan berulang alik mengerjakan solat dengan berjemaah dan kaki ini juga berjalan menghadiri majlis-majlis ilmu."

Apabila gagal malaikat maut,mencabut roh orang mukmin dari arah kaki, maka malaikat maut cuba pula dari arah telinga. Sebaik saja malaikat maut menghampiri telinga maka telinga pun berkata: "Tidak ada jalan bagimu dari arah ini kerana telinga ini sentiasa mendengar bacaan Al-Quran dan zikir."

Akhir sekali malaikat maut cuba mencabut orang mukmin dari arah mata tetapi baru saja hendak menghampiri mata maka berkata mata: "Tidak ada jalan bagimu dari arah ini sebab mata ini sentiasa melihat beberapa mushaf dan kitab-kitab dan mata ini sentiasa menangis kerana takutkan Allah."

Setelah gagal maka malaikat maut kembali kepada Allah S.W.T. Kemudian Allah S.W.T. berfirman yang bermaksud: "Wahai malaikatKu, tulis AsmaKu ditelapak tanganmu dan tunjukkan kepada roh orang yang beriman itu."

Sebaik saja mendapat perintah Allah S.W.T. maka malaikat maut menghampiri roh orang itu dan menunjukkan Asma Allah S.W.T. Sebaik saja melihat Asma Allah dan cintanya kepada Allah S.W.T maka keluarlah roh tersebut dari arah mulut dengan tenang. Abu Bakar R.A. telah ditanya tentang kemana roh pergi setelah ia keluar dari jasad. Maka berkata Abu Bakar R.A:"Roh itu menuju ketujuh tempat:-
1. Roh para Nabi dan utusan menuju ke Syurga Adnin.
2. Roh para ulama menuju ke Syurga Firdaus.
3. Roh mereka yang berbahagia menuju ke Syurga Illiyyina.
4. Roh para shuhada berterbangan seperti burung di syurga mengikut kehendak mereka.
5. Roh para mukmin yang berdosa akan tergantung di udara tidak di bumi dan tidak di langit sampai hari kiamat.
6. Roh anak-anak orang yang beriman akan berada di gunung dari minyak misik.
7. Roh orang-orang kafir akan berada dalam neraka Sijjin, mereka diseksa berserta jasadnya hingga sampai hari Kiamat."

Telah bersabda Rasullullah S.A..W: Tiga kelompok manusia yang akan dijabat tangannya oleh para malaikat pada hari mereka keluar dari kuburnya:-
1. Orang-orang yang mati syahid.
2. Orang-orang yang mengerjakan solat malam dalam bulan Ramadhan.
3. Orang berpuasa di hari Arafah.

Sekian untuk ingatan kita bersama.

Wassallam.

Ya Allah..

2006-06-19T00:31:00.000+08:00

All praises are for you Allah, how I hope that you are there.
For sinful though I know I am, your displeasure I can not bear.
Never, till this moment, did I realize how much I've strayed.
Never, till now, was I more conscious of all those times when I should have prayed.
For sins are like heavy baggage, that one carries through Life, the airport.
Why didn't I realize sooner, that Earth is but a place of sport?
Ya Allah ! Forgive me. Save me from the fire of Hell.
Forgive me as you did my parents, from Jan'ah though they fell.
Ya Allah ! Protect me. From myself for my soul is weak.
Let me not falter ever, for Jan'ah is the abode I seek.
Ya, Allah! Please help me. For I don't understand and thus, I fear.
What happened to all those moments when I never doubted that you were near ?
My actions once were guided, by my faith which, once, was strong.
Ya Allah! please guide me . What happened, what went wrong ?
Each footstep that I used to take, I took with you ever near my side.
The Quran was my faithful companion, Rasoolallah my beloved guide.
How I yearn for those bygone days Allah, for I know that the day comes near.
When we'll each receive our just rewards, and Truth will stand sparkling clear.
Life is like a spider's web Allah. We get caught in its tricky snare
So thoroughly are we disillusioned, time for salat we can not spare.
I sit here and I wonder, Ya Allah! Why did I fall so low ?
What happened to my faith Allah? Where did my Iman go?
In this earthly life of ours, so often does sin seem right.
Falsehood seems to be the truth, as if days are confused with night.
Man is an imperfect creature. And thus, Man shall always wrong.
For the road to Jannah is rocky, and the journey seems awfully long.
Ya Allah ! Our creator, we are all just pieces of clay.
Please help us with our steps in life, and let us not lose our way.
All praises are for you Allah, I know that you are near.
I know that you have read my heart, and my words I know you hear.

Suara Hati Wanita

2006-05-17T21:45:00.000+08:00

Wanita,
renung dengan mata hati bukan emosi
adakah hadirmu menguntungkan atau sekadar mengisi kekosongan

Wanita,
seringkali engkau berduka
kononnya engkau dipersenda
kerana hakmu diperguna
engkau seolah-olah insan yang hina
hanya berada di belakang pemuda
sehingga timbul pelbagai suara
menuntut hak sama rata

Wanita,
adakah engkau lupa
engkau sebenarnya sangat istimewa
ayuh buka minda dan mata
untuk merenung seketika
agar engkau tidak alpa
bahawa engkau terlalu mulia

Wanita,
engkau bukan dijadikan dari kepala
untuk menjadi ketua segala ketua
engkau juga bukan dijadikan daripada kaki
untuk dihina dan dikeji
tapi engkau dijadikan dari tulang rusuk
yang terletak dekat dgn hati
untuk dikasihi dan disayangi

Wanita,
dari rahimmu yang sempit itulah
lahirnya seorang perdana menteri
lahirnya seorang ulama sejati
lahirnya seorang mujahid berani
lahirnya seorang rasul dan nabi
tidak dari rahim lelaki
tidakkah engkau mengerti
kedudukanmu terlalu tinggi

Wanita,
mentaatimu tiket ke syurga
berbakti kepadamu petunjuk sifat taqwa
mengasihimu lambang akhlak mulia
mengabaikanmu membawa celaka
mengetepikanmu seolah -olah tiada makna

Wanita,
andai pena dijadikan perantaran
untuk membuat segala catatan
untuk membuktikan segala keistimewaan
nescaya tiada kemampuan
kerana engkau terlalu diagungkan
cukuplah jikalau engkau telah membuat persediaan
berlandaskan ilmu dan iman
bukan emosi dan perasaan
pasti engkau dapat menerima kenyataan
bahawa engkau sebenarnya terlalu dimuliakan
mempunyai kedudukan tinggi disisi Tuhan.................

Don't Be Sad

2006-05-17T12:22:00.000+08:00

Safety Is In Contentment

Contentment offers safety in that the contented heart is healthy and free from deceit, corruption, and rancour. And it is only a sound and healthy heart that will be saved from Allah's punishment, a heart that is safe and free from doubt, disbelief, and the various tricks of the devil. Such a heart is only concerned about how to please Allah.

"Say: 'Allah [sent it down].' Then leave them to play in their vain discussions." Surah Al-An'am: Ayah 91.

Bitterness and resentfulness are concepts that are foreign to the healthy heart, and so, the more one is contented with Allah's Decree, the more healthy and sound one's heart will be, wickedness, corruption, and deceit accompany discontent, while a healthy heart, righteousness, and sincerity accompany contentment. Also, jealousy is another of the fruits of discontent.

Being pleased with Allah is a quality that is like a good tree that is nourished by the water of sincerity in the garden of pure Islamic Monotheism. Its roots are faith and its branches are good deeds, it is a tree bearing fruit that is fresh and sweet. The Prophet Sallalahu Alayhi Wasalam said:

"One has tasted the taste of faith if one is pleased with Allah as his Lord, with Islam as his religion, and with Muhammad as a Messenger."

Dissatisfaction Is The Door To Doubt

Dissatisfaction opens the door that leads to doubt in Allah: in His Decree, in His Wisdom, and in His Knowledge. Rarely is the complainer free from these accompanying doubts that mix within his heart and permeate his being. If he were to delve deep into his self with honest introspection, he would find his faith to be infirm and questionable. Contentment and faith are like brothers that accompany one another; meanwhile, doubt and discontentment have a similar fraternal relationship. Tirmidhi related that the Prophet Sallalahu Alayhi Wasalam said:

"If you are able to show contentment with faith, then do so. If not, then verily there is much goodness in patience with that which the self hates."

So those who are dissatisfied are resentful on the inside, and also angry, even if their anger is not expressed in words. Inside them mingles an assortment of questions, such as why has this happened, or how could this be?

10 Ways of Protection from Shaitan

2006-04-27T23:15:00.000+08:00

Imam Ibn ul Qayyim al Jawziyyah - Summarized from Bida'i` al-Fawa'id (304-308). Translated by islaam.com.

1. Seeking refuge with Allah from Shaytan. Allah the Most High said,"And if there comes to you from Satan an evil suggestion, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Knowing." [41:36]

2. Recitation of the two soorahs al-Falaq and an-Nas, as they have wondrous effect in seeking refuge with Allah from his evil,weakening Shaytan and protection from him. This is why the Messenger, sallallahu`alayhi wa sallam, said: "No person seeks refuge with anything like the Mu`awwidhatayn (soorahs al-Falaq and an-Nas)". [an-Nasaa'i, 5337]

3. Recitation of Ayat al-Kursi (2:255).

4. Recitation of soorah al-Baqarah. The Messenger, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said, "The house in which al-Baqarah is recited is not approached by Shaytan." [Muslim]

5. The final part of al-Baqarah. The Messenger, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said, "Whoever recites the two last verses of al-Baqarah at night they will suffice him." [Muslim]

6. Recitation of the beginning of soorah Mu'min (Ghafir), until His saying, "wa ilayhi-l-maseer" (to Him is the destination). (i.e. "Ha. Meem. The revelation of the Book is from Allah, the Exalted in Might, the Knowing, the forgiver of sin, acceptor of repentance, severe in punishment, owner of abundance. There is no deity except Him; to Him is the destination." [40:1-2])

7. Saying "la ilaha ill Allah wahdahu la sharika lah, lahul mulku walahul hamdu wa huwa `ala kulli shay’in qadir" (there is nothing worthy of worship except Allah, He has no partner, His is the Dominion and Praise, and He is able to do all things) a hundred times.

8. The most beneficial form of protection from Shaytan: abundance of remembrance of Allah, the Exalted.

9. Ablution and prayer, and they are from among the greatest means of protection, especially at the time of emergence of anger and desire.

10. Abstinence from excess speech, food and mixing with people.

Islam and Terrorism

2006-03-16T11:50:00.000+08:00

Received this email from a cuzen of mine. Thought i could share this with you readers.

(Dr. Danial bin Zainal Abidin (M.B.Ch.B. University of Alexandria) is the Managing Director of Danial Zainal Consultancy based in Penang Island, Malaysia. This Consultancy focussed on education and research. He is also a Medical Practitioner based in Penang Island, Malaysia. Besides that he is also an author who, until now, has written altogether ten books. As a motivator, he gives motivation weekly through Mutiara FM (Penang Island Broadcasting Station). He is also a columnist for i-Magazine in Malaysia.)

John (J): Dr Danial (DD), I always wonder why prophet Muhammad taught Muslims to become terrorists. He should teach people to be kind and tolerant.

DD: Actually John, your concept about Islam and Muhammad is wrong. Completely wrong. Prophet Muhammad never taught his followers to be terrorists. On the ontrary, it was the Muslims who were being terrorised by the non Muslims in the era of prophet Muhammad.

For 13 years in Mecca, after being prophet of Islam, Muhammad and the Muslims were harassed and tortured by the Quraisyites. The companions of the prophet, for example, Yasser and Sumayyyah, were killed. The others, for example, Bilal and Ammar, were tortured. And yet the Muslims at that time were asked to be patient and persevere. They were not allowed to fight and raise arms against the non Muslims. Once prophet Muhammad went to Taif to preach about Islam. He got a cold reception from the people there. There cursed him and as if it was not enough, they threw stones and filth towards him.

When the Archangel Jibril came to him to get his permission to demolish the people of Taif, prophet Muhammad said, "Leave them alone. Yes, today the people ignored my message. But I pray that their progeny will be a different group of people. I pray that they will accept Islam." Are these acts and words of terrorism John?

John: But there are verses in the Quran that promote terrorism. These verses instigate the Muslims to kill the non Muslims all over the world. If I am not mistaken, the meaning of one of the verses is, "And kill the non Muslims whereever they are."

DD: Oh, you are quoting the verses from the Quran. If that's the case, you should allow me to quote a few verses from your Bible and Talmud. In Numbers 31:17-18, it was stated, "Now therefore, kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man intimately. But all the girls who have not known man intimately, spare for yourselves." And in Luke 19:26-27, "I tell you that to everyone who has, more shall be given, but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away.

But these enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, bring them here and slay them in my presence." How about one more verse from Matthew 10:34-35, "Do not think that I have come to send peace on earth. I did not come to send peace, but a sword. I am sent to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law." To me these verses are very dangerous. They can instigate people especially the christians to do acts of terrorism!

And please allow me also to quote from the holy book of the Jews, that is the Talmud. I suppose you know that the Talmud is Judaism's holiest book. Its authority takes precedence over the Old Testament in Judaism. It is stated in Sanhedrin 58b, "If a heathen (i.e. non-Jew) hits a Jew, the gentile must be killed." And In Sanhedrin 57a, "When a Jew murders a gentile ('Cuthean'), there will be no death penalty. What a Jew steals from a gentile he may keep." And John, have you read a book written by A. Hoffman II and Alan R. Critchley titled Judaism's Strange God?

John: Err, no.

DD: Never mind. A. Hoffman II and Alan R. Critchley recently did a thorough research on the contents of the Talmud and what they found surprised them.

In their book, Judaism's Strange God, they said, 'On the surface, it seems that genocide is advocated by the Talmud. In the Minor Tractates, Soferim 15, Rule 10, there is a saying by Rabbi Simon ben Yohai, 'Tob shebe goyyim harog,' which means, 'even the best of the gentiles (i.e. non-Jews) should all be killed.' This passage is taken from the original Hebrew of the Babylonian Talmud as quoted by the 1907 Jewish Encyclopaedia. Israelis annually take part in a national pilgrimage to the grave of Simon ben Yohai, to honour this rabbi who advocated the extermination of non-Jews.'

John, you will agree with me that these verses look very, very violent indeed....

John: But Dr. Danial, I think these verses, especially from the Bible, are
taken out of context. If you read just the text it may look very violent.
But if we read the text in relation with its context, it may be different..

DD: Oh, now you are being very sensible, John. You want the Muslims to read the Bible and interprete it within its context. Good, and I fully agree with you. But, can't you do the same thing to the Quran? Can't you interprete verses of the Quran within its context? As it is now you are not doing that.

You are interpreting the Quran according to your own whims and fancies and that hurts me and the Muslims. By the way, the so called violent verses of the Quran that you mentioned earlier were revealed to prophet Muhammad specifically during the time of war. And war in Islam is an exception and not the norm. The Muslims went to war to defend their honour and country.

Look at what Allah said in chapter The Cow 2:190, which means, "Fight against those who fight against you in the way of Allah, but do not transgress, for Allah does not love transgressors."

It should be emphasized that so many revelations in the Holy Quran came down to provide guidance to Prophet Muhammad and the Muslims based on what they were confronting at that time. Therefore, it is important to understand and know the historic context of the revelations for a proper understanding of these verses.

The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, was the peace maker of his time. He endured torture, hunger and the killing of his loved ones by his enemies, but he remained a merciful person. In his most startling conquest of Mecca, only four people died. And do you know what prophet Muhammad did to the prisoners of war after the conquest of Mecca? He asked the haughty chiefs of the Quraisyites, "What do you expect at my hands?" They answered, "Mercy O generous brother." And the prophet said, "Be it so, you are free." They are free, John. No vengeance being inflicted upon them. No Guantanamo-like prison for them (smile). This is the teaching of Muhammad. And you are telling me that Muhammad taught Muslims to become
terrorists?

John: Yeah, I need to learn more about Muhammad....

(Dr. Danial bin Zainal Abidin (M.B.Ch.B. University of Alexandria) is the Managing Director of Danial Zainal Consultancy based in Penang Island, Malaysia. This Consultancy focussed on education and research. He is also a Medical Practitioner based in Penang Island, Malaysia. Besides that he is also an author who, until now, has written altogether ten books. As a motivator, he gives motivation weekly through Mutiara FM (Penang Island Broadcasting Station). He is also a columnist for i-Magazine in Malaysia.)

Some of the Books Written by Dr. Danial:
Islam The Misunderstood Religion.
Bahan Berdakwah Untuk Remaja Moden.
Kit Kombat Islam.
Perubatan Islam dan Bukti Sains Moden.
Bukti-bukti Sains dan Sejarah Kerasulan Muhammad.
Empayar Minda Muslim.
7 Formula Individu Cemerlang.
Tip-Tip Cemerlang Daripada Quran.

"The most Excellent Jihad is that for the conquest of the self" (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

10 ways of developing love for Allah

2005-12-28T00:23:00.000+08:00

Adapted from Shaykh Ibn Qayyim's (rah) Madarij-us-Saalikeen

Shaykh Ibn al-Qayyim (rah) says: "The reason which cause mahabbah (love) of Allaah to develop, are ten:"

First: Reciting the Qur'aan, reflecting and understanding its meaning and its intent.

Second: Drawing closer to Allaah the Most High through optional deeds, after fulfilling the obligatory duties.

Third: Being continuous in the dhikr (remembrance) of Allaah, with the tongue, the heart and the limbs, under all circumstances. The more continuant the dhikr, the more muhabbah develops and intensifies.

Fourth: Giving precedence to what Allaah loves over personal loves, when being overcome by desires.

Fifth: Contemplating and deliberating over the Names and Attributes of Allaah.

Sixth: Recognizing and remembering the favors and bounties of Allaah, both manifest and hidden.

Seventh: To be humble and submissive before Allaah; and this is the greatest matter.

Eighth: To be in seclusion reciting the Qur'aan, during that time in which Allaah descends to the lowest heaven (which is the last third of every night), finishing this recitation with seeking Allaah's forgiveness and repenting to Him.

Ninth: To sit in the gatherings of the true and sincere lovers of Allaah, reaping the fruits of their speech, and not to speak except if there is benefit in it and that you know that such talk will increase you in goodness and that it will benefit others as well.

Tenth: To stay clear of all those causes which distances the heart from Allaah the Mighty and Majestic.

So these are the ten reasons which cause the person to develop true love for Allaah and to reach the rank of al-muhabbah, by which he reaches his Beloved.

10 Causes That Remove Punishment For A Sin

2005-12-17T13:09:00.000+08:00

Imam Ibn Taymiyyah

Shaykh ul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy on him, said:

The punishment for a sin committed by a believer is removed in ten ways:

He repents to Allah (taubah), so Allah accepts his repentance, for the one who repents from sin is like the one who has no sin.
He seeks forgiveness from Allah (istighfar), so Allah forgives him.
He does good deeds that erase his sin for good deeds erase bad ones.
His believing brethren pray for him or seek forgiveness for his sins during his life or death.
Or they [ask Allah] to bestow on him as gift from the reward for their deeds, with which Allah benefits him.
His Prophet Muhammad, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, intercedes for him.
Allah tests him with trials in this world which expiate his sin.
Allah tests him in al-Barzakh (the intermediate life in the grave, between the death and the Day of Judgment) which expiates his sin.
Allah tests him in the various stages of the Day of Judgment which expiates his sins.
Or the Most Merciful of those who have mercy has mercy on him.

Whoever, then, is missed by these ten cannot blame anyone but himself.

The Life of this World is Fleeting Enjoyment - Imam Ibn Kathir

2005-12-12T10:17:00.000+08:00

"Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. (It is) like a rain (Ghayth), thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller; afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment, and (there is) forgiveness from Allah and (His) pleasure. And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment." [57:20]

Allah the Exalted degrades the significance of this life and belittles it by saying,

"that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children."

Meaning, this is the significance of this life to its people, just as He said in another Ayah,

"Beautified for men is the love of things they covet; women, children, much of gold and silver (wealth), branded beautiful horses, cattle and well-tilled land. This is the pleasure of the present world's life; but Allah has the excellent return with Him." (3:14)

Allah the Exalted also sets a parable for this life, declaring that its joys are fading and its delights are perishable, saying that life is,

"Like a rain (Ghayth)," which is the rain that comes down to mankind, after they had felt despair. Allah the Exalted said in another Ayah,

"And He is it Who sends down the Ghayth (rain) after they have despaired." (42:28)

Allah's statement,

"thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller;" meaning that farmers admire the vegetation that grows in the aftermath of rain. And just as farmers admire vegetation, the disbelievers admire this life; they are the most eager to acquire the traits of life, and life is most dear to them,

"afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw."

Meaning, that vegetation soon turns yellow in color, after being fresh and green. After that, the green fades away and becomes scattered pieces of dust. This is the parable of this worldly life, it starts young, then matures and then turns old and feeble. This is also the parable of mankind in this life; they are young and strong in the beginning. In this stage of life, they look youthful and handsome. Slowly, they begin growing older, their mannerism changes and their strength weakens. They then grow old and feeble; moving becomes difficult for them, while doing easy things becomes beyond their ability. Allah the Exalted said,

"Allah is He Who created you in (a state of) weakness, then gave you strength after weakness, then after strength gave (you) weakness and gray hair. He creates what He wills. And He is the All-Knowing, the All-Powerful." (30:54)

This parable indicates the near demise of this life and the imminent end of it, while in contrast, the Hereafter is surely coming. Those who hear this parable should, therefore, be aware of the significance of the Hereafter and feel eagerness in the goodness that it contains,

"But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment, and (there is) forgiveness from Allah and (His) pleasure. And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment."

Meaning, surely, the Hereafter that will certainly come contains two things either severe punishment or forgiveness from Allah and His good pleasure.

Allah the Exalted said,

"And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment."

Meaning, this life is only a form of enjoyment that deceives those who incline to it. Surely, those who recline to this life will admire it and feel that it is dear to them, so much so, that they might think that this is the only life, no life or dwelling after it. Yet, in reality, this life is insignificant as compared to the Hereafter.

Imam Ahmad recorded that `Abdullah said that the Messenger of Allah, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said,

"Paradise is nearer to any of you than the strap of his shoe, and so is the (Hell) Fire." [Ahmad 1:387]

Al-Bukhari collected this Hadith through the narration of Ath-Thawri [Fath al-Bari 11:328]. This Hadith indicates the close proximity of both good and evil in relation to mankind. If this is the case, then this is the reason Allah the Exalted encouraged mankind to rush to perform acts of righteousness and obedience and to avoid the prohibitions. By doing so, their sins and errors will be forgiven and they will acquire rewards and an exalted status. Allah the Exalted said,

"Race with one another in hastening towards forgiveness from your Lord, and Paradise the width whereof is as the width of the heaven and the earth."
Allah the Exalted said in another Ayah,

"And march forth in the way (to) forgiveness from your Lord, and for Paradise as wide as the heavens and the earth, prepared for those who have Taqwa." (3:133)
Allah said here,

"prepared for those who believe in Allah and His Messengers. That is the grace of Allah which He bestows on whom He is pleased with. And Allah is the Owner of the great bounty."

Meaning, "This, that Allah has qualified them for, is all a part of His favor, bounty and compassion." We mentioned a Hadith collected in the Sahih in which the poor emigrants said to the Messenger, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, "O Allah's Messenger! The wealthy people will get higher grades and permanent enjoyment." He asked, "Why is that?" They said, "They pray like us and fast as we do. However, they give in charity, whereas we cannot do that, and they free servants, whereas we cannot afford it." The Prophet, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said, "Shall I tell you of a good deed that, if you acted upon, you would catch up with those who have surpassed you? None would overtake you and be better than you, except those who might do the same. Say, "Glorious is Allah," Allah is Most Great", and "Praise be to Allah", thirty three times each after every prayer." They later came back and said, "Our wealthy brethren heard what we did and they started doing the same." Allah's Messenger, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said,

"This is the favor that He gives to whom He wills." [Muslim 1:416]

Perfecting One's Character

2005-12-11T22:50:00.000+08:00

Imam Ibn ul Qayyim al Jawziyyah

The Prophet sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam used to make a number of supplications related to good character.

"O Allah, guide me to good character, none guides to good character but You..." [Muslim]

"O Allah, I seek refuge in you from bad character, deeds and desires." [at-Tirmidhee]

"O Allah, You perfectly created me, so perfect my character." [Ahmad]

"O Allah, I seek refuge in you from disability and laziness; from cowardice and avarice; from decrepitude and harshness; from negligence and impoverishment, from lowness and humiliation. And I seek refuge in You from poverty and disbelief; from sinfulness, disunity and hypocrisy; from notability and riyaa' (show off)..." [Ahmad, Maalik, Bazaar, Haithami and ibn `Abd al-Barr authenticated it.

The following beneficial excerpt is from "The Magnificent Journey" by ibn ul Qayyim [published by QSS]. It explains three conditions needed to acquire good manners, meaning proper nature, controlling one's nafs and sound knowledge.

Three Conditions to Acquire Excellent Manners

This is one example of the excellent manners with which Allah (ta`aala) has equipped his Messenger (sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam). He described him as,

"Verily, You [Muhammad] are on an exalted standard on character." [68:4]

`Aa'ishah, radhiallaahu `anhu, described him as, "His character was just [a reflection of] the Qur'aan." [Muslim, Aboo Daawood, Ahmad]

Such excellent character cannot be attained without three conditions:

1. The foundation must be good. Inf one has a rough and dry nature, it will be hard for him to submit to this [excellence of character] through knowledge, will, or practice. On the other hand, a mild and smooth nature will be ready and willing to receive the plowing and the seeds [to prepare it for character excellence].

2. The soul must be strong and capable of conquering calls of laziness, transgression, and desire. Those matters contradict perfection, and souls which cannot defeat them will always be defeated and conquered.

3. [One must possess] a discerning knowledge of the truth of matters, enabling one to put them in the rightful position, and to distinguish between flash and cancer - between glass and jewels.

If these three qualities are present in a man, and Allah's facilitation helps him, then he will be among those whom the best (husnaa) has been decreed and for whom Allah's care has been secured.

4 Crucial Tools to Face Life's Tests

2005-12-10T23:47:00.000+08:00

THE FIRST and foremost beneficial tool is the Quran. We need to understand it as much as we can. We should study it every day because we face tests from Allah everyday. The Quran is the textbook or manual to prepare us for the tests.

THE SECOND tool is the history and lives of the prophets, especially Muhammad, peace be upon him, since we have almost all of his life recorded and the history of Sahabas (his companions) and the rightly guided Muslims. Reading and pondering over their lives will give us ideas on how to deal with the tests that Allah puts us through. They are like past exams. They have been through the tests and have passed them.

THE THIRD tool is Ibadah (worship) through Salah (prayers), Sawm(fasting), Hajj (pilgrimage), Zakah (charity), etc. They are like homework to prepare us for the tests. They give us the moral strength to pass the tests Allah puts us through.

THE FOURTH tool is our company with the righteous people. They will comfort us when we face calamities and will remind us of our duties when we are relatively comfortable. It is very difficult to go through some tests alone. Like we do with academic tests, we need to be with those who remind us of Allah and of our responsibilities. Righteous companions are like study groups to help us pass the tests.

[Taken from the article,"Tests We Go Through in Our Lives", by Abul Ala Morshed]

Di hari persandinganmu

2005-12-10T18:04:00.000+08:00

Pada suatu masa yang ditetapkan...
Kita pasti dirisik..
Pertunangan sejak azali..
Di hujung hidup nanti..
Berlangsungnya perkahwinanmu dengan maut..
Hantarannya..sakit dan nazak..
Tamu bertandang menghadiahkan esak tangis..
Pengantin dimandikan..
Dipakaikan baju cantik putih..
Wangian gaharu dan cendana..
Keranda jadi pelaminan..

Pengantin bersanding sendirian..
Di arak keliling kampung..
Berkompangkan azan dan kalimah kudus..
Akad nikahnya bacaan talkin..
Berwalikan liang lahat..
Saksi pula nisan-nisan..
Siraman air mawar..
Keluarga terdekat menepung tawar..

Tiba masa pengantin..
Menunggu sendirian..
Malam pertama bersama KEKASIH..
Di kamar bertilamkan tanah..
Dan Dia menuntut janji..
Sucikah kita tatkala berpadu..
Pernahkah taubat sepanjang hayat..
Atau terkubur bersama dosa-dosa...
Dan Dia Kekasih itu..

Menetapkanmu ke syurga..
Atau melemparkan dirimu ke neraka

Mistakes in Ramadhan

2005-12-10T11:31:00.000+08:00

1) Focusing on food; to the extent that people begin to worry about eating more then actually fasting. This also goes along with spending tons of money on Iftaars even though a person does not need to eat that much food.

2) Making Suhoor way before Fajr. Some people eat Suhoor a few hours after Taraweeh or Isha Salah, this is wrong. It should be eaten closer to the time of Fajr.

3) People don't make Niyyah (intentions) to fast for Ramadan. This is something in the heart and does not need to be verbal. Also it only needs to be done once, at the beginning of Ramadan and not every single day.

4) If you find out late that Ramadan started, you should stop eating and fast for that day, making that day up after Ramadan/Eid ends.

5) Many people don't think you pray Taraweeh on the first night of Ramadan (such as tonight). They believe you pray it after the first day you actually fast. They forget that the Islamic calendar runs on the moon, maghrib is the start of the new day.

6) Many people believe if you eat or drink on accident this breaks your fast. This is false, if you do this on accident then you continue fasting and do not need to make up the day.

7) Some people take the opinion that if they see someone eating or drinking they should not remind the person that he/she is fasting. According to Sheikh Bin Baz (ra), this is incorrect and it is an order from Allah for us to ordain the good and forbid the evil. Thus we tell the person, because we are forbidding the evil this way.

8) Many sisters believe they cannot use Hennah while fasting. This is incorrect, they are allowed to use it during Ramadan.

9) Some people believe when you are cooking you cannot taste the food to see if it has the right spices/flavors. This is false, and allowed in Islam as long as the person cooking is not eating the food. Rather they can taste it to see if it needs salt, or more spices.

10) Many people think you cannot use a Miswak or toothbrush during Ramadan. This is false, for the Prophet(saw) used to use a miswak during Ramadan. Also you CAN use toothpaste; the reasoning by the scholars is that the Miswak has flavor, thus toothpaste is okay to use (if you are not eating it).

11) Some people make the Fajr Adhan early. They do this so people will stop eating before Fajr and not invalidate their fast. This is wrong and something we should not do.

12) Some people make the Maghrib Adhan late. They do this so people will start eating late, just in case Maghrib has not come in yet. This too is wrong and we should not do this.

13) Many many people believe you cannot have intercourse with your spouse during the whole month of Ramadan. This is false, you cannot do this only during the times when you are fasting. Between Maghrib and Fajr it is permissible to do.

14) Many women believe that if their period has just ended and they did not make ghusl, they cannot fast that day (considering their period ended at night, and they went to bed without Ghusl, waking up without having a chance to make it). This is incorrect, if a women has not made Ghusl she can still fast.

15) Many men believe that if he has had intercourse with his wife and did not make ghusl (similar to the above) then he cannot fast the next morning. This is also incorrect, for he can fast even if he has not made Ghusl.

16) Some people pray Dhur and Asr prayers together during Ramadan. (mainly in Arab countries) This is incorrect and should be avoided.

17) Some people believe you cannot eat until the Muadthin is done calling the Maghrib Adthan. This is incorrect, as soon as he starts a person can break their fast.

18) Many people don't take advantage of making dua before they break their fast. This is one of the three times when Allah accepts a person dua.

19) Many people make the mistake of spending the later part of Ramadan preparing for Eid, neglecting Ramadan. This is incorrect and these people lose the concept of what Ramadan is about.

20) Many parents do not let their children fast during Ramadan (young children). This is something counter productive to a child. By allowing him to fast he will grow up to know he must do this act.

21) Many people think Ramadan is just about not eating and forget about controlling their tempers and watching what they say. In actuality we are supposed to control our tempers and mouths even more during Ramadan.

22) People often waste their time during Ramadan. They go to sleep during the day and get nothing done. We should be taking advantage of this blessed month by doing extra Ibaadat.

23) Some people don't go on trips or travel during Ramadan. They think they have to break their fast when traveling. This is actually optional, if you want to break your fast while traveling you can (with making it up later), and if you don't you can continue fasting.

24) Many people who are able don't make Itikaaf at the masjid. We should take advantage of our good health and spend lots of time at the Masjid, especially the last 10 days of Ramadan.

25) Some people believe they cannot cut their hair or nails during Ramadan. This is also false.

26) Some people say you cannot swallow your spit during Ramadan. This too is false. However you cannot swallow mucus that has entered your mouth.

27) Some people say you cannot use scented oils or perfumes during Ramadan. This too is false.

28) Some people believe bleeding breaks the fast. This is not true.

29) Some people believe if you throw up on accident it breaks your fast. This is not true, however if you do it intentionally it does.

30) Some people think you cannot put water in your nose and mouth during wuduh in Ramadan. This too is incorrect.

"Mankind, indeed, is doomed except for those who believe, and do righteous deeds, and admonish with the Truth and admonish with Patience." [103.2,3]