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In the Name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful and the Blessings of Imam al-Mahdi [a.s.]<br />
JAFARI OBSERVER MAHE RAMAZAN-SHAWWAL 1436 VOL. VII NO. 6<br />
Patron: Hon’ble Sayyed Mohammed Moosawi Saheb<br />
President, World Ahlul Bayt Islamic League (WABIL)<br />
in this issue . . .<br />
Editorial: Difference between ‘Servant of Allah’ and<br />
‘Enemy of Allah’.......................................................... 4<br />
Cover Feature: Lailatul Qadr - The Night of Destiny... 5<br />
Ahlulbait (a.s.): Why Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (a.s.)<br />
entered into a peace treaty with Muawiyah?............. 9<br />
Personalities: The True Mother of Believers – Hazrat<br />
Khadijah (s.a.)........................................................... 11<br />
Good Manners: Imam Ali (a.s.)’s Will ...................... 15<br />
Nearness to Allah (s.w.t.):<br />
Reward and Recompense for Fasting........................ 17<br />
History: Jannat ul Baqi ............................................. 19<br />
Ethics: Forgive and Forget......................................... 23<br />
Health Guide: Mahe Ramazan : A Month Of Fasting Or<br />
Feasting?................................................................... 25<br />
Taaqibaat: Merits of the Surahs of the Holy Quran.. 26<br />
Snippets.................................................................28<br />
Your Questions Answered.......................................30<br />
To Allah (s.w.t.) belong all months: Mahe Ramazan.....32<br />
Shawwal.................................................................... 33<br />
News - Happenings................................................ 34<br />
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JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
Difference between ‘Servant of Allah’ and<br />
‘Enemy of Allah’<br />
In the traditions, the Holy month of Ramazan has<br />
been given the title - ‘Month of Allah’. Allah (s.w.t.) has<br />
called it ‘month of forgiveness’. It is narrated in the<br />
traditions that the worst person is the one who is not<br />
forgiven in this month.<br />
Supplicating, reciting the Holy Quran, establishing<br />
prayers, etc. have been emphasised a lot in this month.<br />
Similarly, remembering the Holy Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) is also<br />
important. The 10th of this month is remembered as<br />
the Death Anniversary of Lady Khadija (s.a.) - the<br />
illustrious wife of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and the<br />
mother of Sayyedah Fatemah (s.a.), the 15th as the<br />
Birth Anniversary of the Second Holy Imam Hasan ibn<br />
Ali (a.s.), the 19th is the day of Zarbat (striking of<br />
sword) on the head of Ameer al-Momineen Imam Ali<br />
ibn Abi Talib (a.s.) while the 21st as the Death<br />
Anniversary of the Holy Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (a.s.) -<br />
an inestimable loss to the whole of humanity till<br />
Qayamat - for which any amount of mourning can only<br />
be seen as less. It is the mourning on the Martyrdom<br />
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Editorial<br />
Maulana Zaki Hasan<br />
of that Imam (a.s.) for whom the entire universe is<br />
proud. The Holy Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (a.s.) has been<br />
mentioned by the agnomen of ‘Ameenullah’ in the<br />
Ziyaaraat i.e. ‘Trustworthy of Allah’. For acquiring the<br />
trusts of Allah (s.w.t.) one has to come to him (a.s.).<br />
The world is searching here and there for guidance of<br />
Allah (s.w.t.), while it can be obtained from His genuine<br />
representative only. Allah (s.w.t.) has made the Holy<br />
Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (a.s.) ‘leader of the pious’<br />
therefore every person who is adorned with piety has<br />
to mourn for him (a.s.). At the time of ‘zarbat’ Jibraeel<br />
(a.s.) had cried aloud that ‘pillars of guidance’ has<br />
fallen. That is why guidance has to be acquired only<br />
from Imam Ali (a.s.) and the Holy Imams (a.s.) from his<br />
household and none else.<br />
In light of the above discussion it is crystal clear<br />
that the person or the group who killed the ‘trustee of<br />
Allah’ and the centre of guidance - Ameerul Momineen<br />
(a.s.) – is not associated with the religion of Allah. This<br />
is the difference between ‘servant of Allah’ and ‘enemy<br />
Continued on page 22<br />
4
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
JA’FARI<br />
OBSERVER<br />
Rs. 10/- Aug.... Vol....<br />
Cover Feature<br />
Lailatul Qadr - The Night of Destiny<br />
Yasin T. al-Jibouri<br />
The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) said:<br />
“Allah (s.w.t.) has favored Friday all over other<br />
days, the Month of Holy Ramazan over all<br />
other months, and the Night of Destiny<br />
(Lailatul-Qadr) over all other nights and Allah<br />
(s.w.t.) has favored the Holy Quran over all<br />
other Books which he revealed.”<br />
(Muftahul Jannat of al-Ameen, vol. 3, p. 265)<br />
Ibrahim, one of the companions of Imam Ja’far as-<br />
Sadiq (a.s.) asked the Imam (a.s.) about how the Holy<br />
Quran was revealed during Lailatul-Qadr, knowing that<br />
it took more than twenty years to reveal. The Imam<br />
(a.s.) answered by saying:<br />
“The Holy Quran was revealed as a whole<br />
during the Month of Holy Ramazan at the<br />
Ancient House (the Ka’ba), and then from there<br />
it was revealed along the span of (more than)<br />
twenty years.”<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 94, p. 25)<br />
Then he (a.s.) cited the Messenger of Allah<br />
(s.a.w.a.) saying: “The Books of Ibrahim (a.s.) were<br />
revealed on the first night of the Month of Holy<br />
Ramazan; the Torah was revealed on the sixth of the<br />
Month of Holy Ramazan; the Gospel (Injil, i.e. the Bible)<br />
was revealed on the thirteenth of the Month of Holy<br />
Ramazan; the Psalms (Zabur) was revealed on the<br />
eighteenth of the Month of the Holy Ramazan, and the<br />
Holy Quran was revealed on the twenty-fourth of the<br />
Month of Holy Ramazan.”<br />
[Ibid.; Tafseer al-Ayyashi]<br />
The name was used for Lailatul-Qadr because<br />
Allah, the Almighty determines in it for everyone all<br />
what will happen the entire next year. The “Qadr” in<br />
this sense means destiny. According to al-Qummi’s<br />
Tafseer, as explained on pg. 432 vol. 2, such destiny<br />
includes life and death, sustenance, abundance of<br />
crops or famine and everything good or bad. This<br />
means that Allah the Glorified and Exalted determines<br />
in this Night each and every event to occur during the<br />
next year to all of His creation.<br />
Al-Majlisi quotes his father who quoted Imam Ja’far<br />
as-Sadiq (a.s.) saying: “During Lailatul-Qadr, the Angels,<br />
the spirit, and the trusted scribes all descend to the lower<br />
Heavens and write down whatever Allah (s.w.t.) decrees<br />
that year, and if Allah (s.w.t.) wishes to advance something<br />
or postpone it or add thereto, He orders the Angel to<br />
erase it and replace it with whatever He decrees.”<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 94, p. 12)<br />
Sulayman al-Marzawi asked Imam Ali Reza (a.s.):<br />
“Could you please tell us why the Chapter of Qadr was<br />
revealed?” The Imam (a.s.) said:<br />
“O Sulayman! Lailatul-Qadr is the night when<br />
Allah, the most Exalted, the most Great,<br />
decrees what will take place from one year to<br />
another of life or death, good or evil, or<br />
regarding sustenance, and whatever He then<br />
decrees is sure destiny.”<br />
(Oyoon Akhbar al-Reza, vol. 1, p. 182; Behaar al-Anwaar, Vol. 94, p. 14)<br />
Imam Ali (a.s.) said:<br />
“Once the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) asked<br />
me “O Ali! Do you know the implication of<br />
Lailatul-Qadr? “Allah (s.w.t.), the Praised One,<br />
the Most Glorified, decreed in it what will take<br />
place till the Day of Judgment, and among<br />
what He, the most Exalted, the Most Great,<br />
5
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
decreed was your own Imamate and Wilayat<br />
and the Imamate and Wilayat of your offspring<br />
till the Day of Resurrection.”<br />
(Ma’ani al-Akhbar, p. 315; Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 94, p. 18)<br />
When the Chapter of Qadr was mentioned in the<br />
presence of Abu Abdullah Imam Ja’far as-Sadiq (a.s.),<br />
he was asked about its merits over the other chapters,<br />
and he (a.s.) said,<br />
“It was revealed with reference to the Wilayat<br />
of the Commander of the Faithful Imam Ali<br />
(a.s.), and it is the night in which the Heavens<br />
and the Earth were determined, and the<br />
Wilayat of the Commander of the Faithful (a.s.)<br />
was decreed.”<br />
(Ibid.)<br />
Ahmed ibn Muhammad and Ahmed ibn Ishaq, as<br />
recorded on p. 21, vol. 94, of Behaar al-Anwaar, quote<br />
al-Qasim ibn Yahya quoting others citing Imam Abu<br />
Abdullah (a.s.) saying that Ali ibn Abu Talib (a.s.) quite<br />
often used to say,<br />
“We saw the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.)<br />
once in the company of al-Taymi and a friend<br />
of his while the latter was reciting Chapter al-<br />
Qadr. He (s.a.w.a.) was profoundly moved and<br />
he kept weeping to the extent that he (s.a.w.a.)<br />
was asked, ‘How so deeply moved by this<br />
Chapter your heart is!’<br />
He (s.a.w.a.) said, ‘My heart is deeply impressed<br />
because of what my eyes had witnessed, and<br />
what my mind had comprehended, and<br />
because of what the heart of this man [meaning<br />
Ali (a.s.)] will go through after me.’ Both men<br />
asked the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.), ‘Did<br />
you really see all of that?! And what will he<br />
(Ali) see?’ He (s.a.w.a.) would then recite the<br />
verse saying, ‘The angels and the Spirit<br />
descend therein with the permission of their<br />
Lord for every affair; peace, it is, till the break<br />
of the morn.’<br />
Then he (s.a.w.a.) would pause and ask them,<br />
‘Is there anything left after the Almighty having<br />
verbally said ‘every affair’?’ They would both<br />
answer in the negative, and he (s.a.w.a.) would<br />
then ask them, ‘Do you both know regarding<br />
whom it is revealed?’ They would both say,<br />
‘No, by Allah, O Messenger of Allah!’<br />
He (s.a.w.a.) would then say, ‘Yes; is there<br />
going to be a Lailatul-Qadr after me (I.e., after<br />
my demise)?’ They would answer in the<br />
affirmative, and he (s.a.w.a.) would then ask<br />
them, ‘Will every affair descend therein?’ They<br />
said: ‘Yes.’ He then asked them, ‘To whom will<br />
it descend?’ They answered, ‘We do not know.’<br />
He (s.a.w.a.), with his hand on my head, pushed<br />
me gently forward and said, ‘If you do not<br />
know, then it is regarding this person after me.’<br />
Both men, ever since the demise of the<br />
Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.), used to be filled<br />
with awe whenever that night approached.’”<br />
The Almighty says,<br />
“Therein every wise affair is made distinct”<br />
(Surah Dokhaan (44) : Verse 4)<br />
This means that in this night, the Exalted One<br />
decrees everything that will happen next year. It is also<br />
said in Arabic that someone has a “qadr,” a social status<br />
or a certain prestige, which he enjoys among people.<br />
The “Qadr” in this sense, therefore, also connotes<br />
prestige and significance.<br />
The Almighty also says in the Holy Qur’an, “They<br />
did not honor Allah as He ought to be honored,” that<br />
is, they did not glorify Him as He ought to be glorified;<br />
thus, “qadr” in this verse implies glorification. Lailatul-<br />
Qadr, then, is the great night which enjoys a great deal<br />
of prestige and high esteem with Allah and in which He<br />
determines and decrees the fate and sustenance of all<br />
His creation. It has a special status simply because<br />
obedience to Him during it is regarded with great<br />
seriousness and urgency, and a great reward awaits<br />
those who honor the month wherein it falls.<br />
It is also said that it was so named because a Book<br />
from Allah which enjoys greatness of status was<br />
revealed to a Prophet who also enjoys a great honor<br />
6
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
and prestige. Another view is that it was named so<br />
because the earth becomes straitened due to the<br />
number of angels on it. “Qadr,” according to this view,<br />
carries the meaning of straitness due to the fact that<br />
the Almighty has said “... and whoever He decides to<br />
straiten his sustenance...,” and Allah knows best.<br />
The Almighty has addressed His servant and<br />
Messenger, our master, Muhammad (s.a.w.a.), saying,<br />
“And what will make you comprehend what Lailatul-<br />
Qadr is? Lailatul-Qadr is better than a thousand<br />
months;” that is, “How would you know the greatness,<br />
significance, and sanctity of this night which I have<br />
decreed to be better than a thousand months?”<br />
There are indications that the Holy Qur’an was<br />
revealed as a whole to the Messenger (s.a.w.a.). In the<br />
Holy Qur’an, we read:<br />
“Haa, Meem. By the Book that makes (the<br />
truth) manifest, surely We revealed it on a<br />
blessed night”<br />
(Surah Dokhaan (44): Verses 1-3)<br />
and also,<br />
“Surely We revealed it on Lailatul-Qadr.”<br />
(Surah Bayyenah (98): Verse 1)<br />
[Surah Maaedah (5): Verse 3]<br />
Why is Lailatul-Qadr better than a thousand<br />
months? Why not better than ten or a hundred<br />
thousands?!<br />
Al-Qummi indicates on p. 432, vol. 2, of his Tafseer,<br />
that the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) once saw in a<br />
vision monkeys climbing over his pulpit, and he felt<br />
very distressed; thereupon, the chapter of Qadr was<br />
revealed to remove his distress. The period of Banu<br />
Umayyad’s government lasted roughly a thousand<br />
months: from 661 to 750 A.D., with the first ruler being<br />
Abu Sufyan and the last Mu’awiyah al-Himar.<br />
Both al-Kulayni in his Al-Kaafi and al-Majlisi in his<br />
Behaar al-Anwaar quote Imam Abu Abdullah al-Sadiq<br />
(a.s.) saying,<br />
“The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) was shown<br />
in a vision how Banu Umayyah climbed over<br />
his pulpit (like monkeys climb over trees), so he<br />
felt very unhappy, whereupon Jibraeel (a.s.)<br />
descended upon him and asked him why he<br />
was so forlorn.<br />
He (s.a.w.a.) said, ‘I have seen (in a vision)<br />
tonight Banu Umayya ascending my pulpit<br />
after having misled people from the Straight<br />
Path.’ Jibraeel (a.s.) said,<br />
‘I swear by the One Who has sent me (as a<br />
messenger) with the truth, this is something<br />
with which I am not familiar.’ Having said so,<br />
he ascended to the heavens. After a short<br />
while, he brought him one verse to remove<br />
thereby his grief; it said: ‘Have you considered<br />
if We would let them enjoy themselves for (a<br />
few) years, then that with which they are<br />
threatened comes to them, so much so that<br />
whatever they were permitted to enjoy shall<br />
not avail them (in the least)?’<br />
(Surah Sho’ara (26): Verses 205-207)<br />
And he also brought him: ‘We revealed it in<br />
Lailatul-Qadr, and what will make you<br />
comprehend what Lailatul-Qadr is? Lailatul-<br />
Qadr is better than a thousand months..., etc.’”<br />
Lailatul-Qadr is a blessed night also because the<br />
Almighty brings down during it goodness, bliss, and<br />
forgiveness for His servants. One tradition of the<br />
greatest of all prophets Muhammad ibn Abdullah<br />
(s.a.w.a.) states that when Lailatul-Qadr approaches,<br />
the Almighty orders Jibraeel (a.s.) to descend<br />
accompanied by a crowd of angels to the earth with a<br />
green banner.<br />
He would mount the banner atop the Holy Ka’ba<br />
while having six hundred wings one of which is not<br />
spread except on Lailatul-Qadr; so, he would spread<br />
them during that night, and he and all other angels<br />
would greet everyone who is standing for his prayers,<br />
sitting, adoring, or reciting the Holy Qur’an. They<br />
would shake hands with them and pray the Almighty<br />
to accept their pleas, and they would continue doing so<br />
till daybreak.<br />
It is then that they would ask Jibraeel (a.s.): “What<br />
7
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
has the Almighty Allah done with the wishes of the<br />
believers among the nation of Muhammad (s.a.w.a.)?”<br />
He would answer, “The Almighty Allah has looked upon<br />
them on this night and forgiven them, all of them,<br />
except the following: one who is addicted to drinking,<br />
one who severs his ties with his kin, and one who is a<br />
trouble-maker.”<br />
The Almighty has said, “Lailatul-Qadr is better<br />
than a thousand months,” meaning, mathematically,<br />
that this night, which is comprised of a few hours, is<br />
honored by Allah the Exalted and Praised over about<br />
eighty-three years which is the equivalent of a<br />
thousand months. The Umayyads fought Islam since<br />
its inception, then they fought the family of the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.), that is, Ahl al-Bayt, the whole time<br />
they were in power.<br />
The first self-declared Umayyad ruler was Abu<br />
Sufyan, and the last was Mu’awiya al-Himar. If you trace<br />
the period extending from the first year during which<br />
Abu Sufyan forced his authority on the Muslims until<br />
the Umayyad lost grip over power, you will come to a<br />
figure equivalent to a thousand months. It is as if the<br />
Holy Qur’an is saying that one night in the sight of Allah<br />
is better than all the thousand months those corrupt<br />
Umayyads ruled the Muslim masses by sheer force.<br />
The Almighty has also said, “Peace, it is, till the<br />
break of the morn,” that is, “Lailatul-Qadr is a night of<br />
peace and tranquility against all evils, tribulations, and<br />
the mischief of the devils. No evil can take place during<br />
it, nor can a demon practice his evil designs. It is peace<br />
for the devotees who are greeted whenever they are<br />
met by the angels. The angels greet them and greet<br />
you, O Muhammad! And so does My Spirit, since the<br />
moment they descend from heavens and till the time<br />
of daybreak.”<br />
The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said:<br />
“Whoever remains awake during Lailatul-Qadr<br />
and spends it in adoration will have his penalty<br />
postponed till the next year.”<br />
(al-Iqbal cites from Kanzul Yawaqeet by Abul-Fadl ibn Muhammad<br />
al-Harwi)<br />
According to the same reference, the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) says that Moosa (a.s.) once addressed the<br />
Almighty saying, “Lord! I desire to be near to You.” The<br />
Almighty said, “Whoever desires nearness to Me is<br />
one who remains awake during Lailatul-Qadr (worshipping<br />
Me).” He said , “Lord I wish to earn your Mercy”.<br />
The Almighty said: “My Mercy is granted to anyone<br />
who is merciful to the indigent during Lailatul-Qadr.”<br />
He said, “Lord! I wish to pass on the right path” He<br />
(s.w.t.) said, “This is granted to anyone who spends<br />
alms during Lailatul-Qadr”. He said, “Lord! I wish to<br />
enjoy the trees and fruits of Paradise”. The Almighty<br />
said: “This is granted to anyone who praises Me<br />
during Lailatul-Qadr.” He said: “Lord I wish to achieve<br />
salvation from the fire!” He (s.w.t.) said: “This is<br />
granted to anyone who seeks forgiveness during<br />
Lailatul-Qadr.” He said: “Lord I wish to achieve Your<br />
Pleasure”! The Almighty said: “I shall be pleased with<br />
anyone who prays two (optional) rakats during<br />
Lailatul-Qadr.”<br />
(Ibid.)<br />
The same book quotes the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
saying that the gates of heaven will be opened during<br />
Lailatul-Qadr; every devotee who performs prayers<br />
during it will receive a tree in Paradise for each<br />
prostration he makes, a tree under whose shade a rider<br />
may keep riding for a hundred years without leaving its<br />
shade. And he will receive for each rak’at a mansion in<br />
Paradise of pearls, sapphires, chrysolites and diamonds.<br />
For each verse he recites he will receive one of the<br />
crowns of Paradise. The tradition is lengthy and it<br />
contains quite a generous reward indeed.<br />
Al-Dooryasti, in Kitab al-Husna, relying on the<br />
authority of Abu Ja’far al-Jawad who quotes his<br />
forefathers quoting Imam al-Baqir, peace be upon all<br />
of them, the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) is quoted<br />
saying that whoever spends Lailatul-Qadr adoring his<br />
Lord will have all his sins forgiven even if they had<br />
numbered as many as the stars in the heavens, the<br />
weight of the mountains, or the measures of the seas.<br />
Continued on page 24<br />
8
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
Ahlulbait (a.s.)<br />
Why Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (a.s.) entered<br />
into a peace treaty with Muawiyah?<br />
Syed Mohammed Saqib<br />
Some Muslims claim that Imam Hasan (a.s.), by<br />
entering into a peace treaty with Muawiyah, submitted<br />
to the latter’s superior claim to caliphate. Thus, by<br />
making peace with other Muslims, we can achieve the<br />
larger goal of Islamic unity.<br />
Reply<br />
Anyone who claims Muawiyah’s superiority is a<br />
poor student of Islamic history. It was Muawiyah who<br />
went to war with Ameerul Momineen Ali b. AbiTalib<br />
(a.s.) in Siffeen and killed Ammar (r.a.) the venerable<br />
companion of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) – thus<br />
fulfilling the prophecy regarding the rebellious group<br />
that would slay him (r.a.). How can Muawiyah, who<br />
had many other crimes to his name, turn superior to<br />
Imam Hasan (a.s.), the Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s son and a<br />
chief of the youths of Paradise?<br />
As regards Islamic unity, the less said the better.<br />
After Jamal, Siffeen, Naharwaan, Karbala in the earlier<br />
era and the numerous conflicts like the Osmani-Safavi,<br />
Iraq-Iran battles of the modern era and the continuous<br />
unabashed slaughtering of innocent and unarmed<br />
Shiites in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Iraq, Syria,<br />
etc. for no other reason except their belief, Islamic<br />
unity is nothing more than a political slogan to achieve<br />
their nigh impossible dream of dominating the Muslim<br />
world!<br />
Regarding the peace treaty, there is an interesting<br />
sermon of Imam Hasan (a.s.) where he explains the<br />
reasons behind the treaty. The sermon should put to<br />
rest all absurd and baseless theories advanced by the<br />
Muslims for the treaty.<br />
Imam Hasan (a.s.) registers his protest against<br />
Muawiya<br />
It is narrated from Sulaym Ibn Qais al-Hilaali, the<br />
trusted companion of Ameerul Momineen Ali Ibn Abi<br />
Talib (a.s.), that one day in an assembly of Muawiya<br />
and the Muslims, Imam Hasan (a.s.) ascended the<br />
pulpit and after glorifying Allah said:<br />
“O People! It is Muawiyah’s false assumption<br />
that I am considering him eligible for caliphate<br />
and preferred him over myself. He has lied. On<br />
the basis of categorical verses of the Holy<br />
Quran and the narrations of the Noble Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.), I am superior and worthier than all<br />
the people for caliphate. By Allah! Had people<br />
paid allegiance to me and helped me by<br />
obeying me, the heavens and the earth would<br />
have blessed them with their auspiciousness. O<br />
Muawiyah! (In such a condition) you would<br />
never have been greedy for it (caliphate) as the<br />
Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) has said – When<br />
people hand over their affairs to such a person<br />
(who is less knowledgeable) whereas more<br />
knowledgeable people are present among<br />
them, their affairs will certainly proceed<br />
towards failure. So much so that they will go<br />
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JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
out of the religion and enter the custom of calf<br />
worship.<br />
The Bani Israel abandoned (Prophet) Haroon and<br />
started worshiping the calf even though they were<br />
aware of the fact that Haroon was the successor of<br />
(Prophet) Moosa (a.s.). In the same way this nation<br />
also abandoned Ali (a.s.) even though they themselves<br />
had heard the Messenger (s.a.w.a.) say – You are to me<br />
as Haroon was to Moosa except that there is no<br />
prophet after me.<br />
The Messenger (s.a.w.a.) himself left his people<br />
and went to the Sheb-e-Abi Taalib while he was inviting<br />
the people towards Allah. If he had helpers and<br />
companions he (s.a.w.a.) would have never taken to<br />
the cave. Likewise, if I would have got helpers I would<br />
have never made peace with you.<br />
When the Bani Israel weakened Haroon so much<br />
so that they were close to killing him, Allah considered<br />
his silence as valid as he also did not have any helper<br />
and friend. In the same way when the Messenger<br />
(s.a.w.a.) did not have any helper, Allah granted him<br />
the freedom to visit the Sheb-e-Abi Taalib. It is the<br />
same for me and my father (a.s.) that when people<br />
abandoned us, paid allegiance to others and we did<br />
not find any helpers, then this (silence) is valid for us<br />
from the side of Allah. Certainly, these types of denials<br />
and arguments (against the treaty) will continue.<br />
O People! If you will search for the progeny of<br />
the Messenger (s.a.w.a.) in the East and the<br />
West, you will find none except me and my<br />
brother who are the children of Allah’s<br />
Messenger (s.a.w.a.).<br />
It is narrated in that when Imam Hasan (a.s.) made<br />
peace with Muawiya the people approached Imam<br />
Hasan (a.s.) and rebuked him, at which he (a.s.)<br />
retorted:<br />
Woe unto you! You all do not know what I have<br />
done. By Allah! I have done what is better and more<br />
suitable for our Shiites than anything over which the<br />
sun rises and sets. Don’t you know that I am your Imam<br />
whose obedience is obligatory upon you?<br />
Have you forgotten that Allah’s Messenger<br />
(s.a.w.a.) had said: I am one of the two Leaders of the<br />
Youths of Paradise?<br />
Everybody said: Yes!<br />
Imam Hasan (a.s.) said:<br />
Don’t you know that when Khizr (a.s.) made a<br />
hole in the boat, repaired the wall and killed a<br />
small child, all these actions proved to be<br />
difficult and tough for (Prophet) Moosa (a.s.)<br />
because the wisdom behind all this was not<br />
clear and apparent for him but near Allah it<br />
was full of wisdom and righteousness?….<br />
(Prophet) Isa (a.s.) will pray behind him (a.t.f.s.)<br />
because Allah will keep his birth confidential<br />
and his personality hidden so that even<br />
momentarily nobody’s allegiance will be upon<br />
his (Qaim (a.t.f.s.)) neck.<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 44, p. 19, Chapter 18 narrating from<br />
Al-Ehtejaaj, vol. 2, p. 289)<br />
Conclusion<br />
1. Imam Hasan’s (a.s.) peace treaty was only<br />
because he could not find helpers and supporters<br />
– a situation also witnessed by his father Ameerul<br />
Momineen (a.s.) and grandfather – the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.) before him.<br />
2. The other reasons attributed to the peace treaty<br />
– like Imam Hasan (a.s.) submitting to Muawiyah’s<br />
superiority or forging unity among the Muslims<br />
is a pack of malicious lies and an allegation<br />
against the Chief of the Youths of Paradise.<br />
3. Imam Hasan (a.s.) being Allah’s Proof has perfect<br />
judgement and doubting him is akin to doubting<br />
Allah’s Prudence. Our thinking must submit to<br />
his actions, we should not make Imam (a.s.)<br />
submit to our thinking.<br />
4. The Imam (a.s.) must be obeyed under all<br />
conditions, be it in peace or in battle.<br />
5. The Imam (a.s.) always charts a course that is in<br />
the best interests of his Shiites even though they<br />
may not realize it initially.<br />
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Personalities<br />
The True Mother of Believers – Hazrat<br />
Khadijah (s.a.)<br />
Islam is the eternal charter of humanity. It has<br />
witnessed many personalities who have participated<br />
in, whatever manner possible, spreading the message<br />
of Islam. In this way, they have earned the respect of<br />
other Muslims for their sacrifice in the way of Islam.<br />
Amongst these great personalities, the eminent<br />
personality of Ummul Momineen – Hazrat Khadijah<br />
(s.a.) stands out for offering everything at her disposal<br />
in the way of Islam and the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.).<br />
Family<br />
Nobility ran in the family of Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.),<br />
the mother of Hazrat Fatimah Zahra (s.a.). Over the<br />
years, her family had earned distinction in the Quraysh<br />
for its knowledge and recognition.<br />
(Al-Rauz al-Anaf, vol. 1, p. 213)<br />
Asad b. Abdul Uza is her bequeather. He is amongst<br />
the associates of Hilf al-Fuzula. And one of the<br />
associates of Hilf al-Fuzula is the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) himself.<br />
(Seerat-e-Ibn-e-Hesham, vol. 1, p. 141)<br />
Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) inherited a lot of wealth<br />
from her father. She ran a flourishing trading business<br />
and there were many people under her employment.<br />
She had more than 80,000 camels. Her business<br />
interests extended up to Ethiopia and Egypt.<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 16, p. 22)<br />
Managing such a huge business underlines her<br />
business acumen and managerial capabilities.<br />
Selecting the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), who was known<br />
for his trustworthiness, for her business manifests her<br />
judgment of character. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
traveled to Syria for business at the age of 25 years.<br />
(Ummul Momineen Khadijah al-Tahera, p. 15)<br />
On employing the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) for her<br />
trading business, she recognized him (s.a.w.a.) even<br />
better over a period of time as a man of extraordinary<br />
character and piety.<br />
Marriage<br />
S.Z.Rizvi<br />
Her business dealings with the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) gave her the opportunity to witness his<br />
(s.a.w.a.) remarkable personality from close quarters.<br />
She was the wealthiest lady of Makkah. Wealthy men<br />
were regularly proposing marriage to her, but she did<br />
not pay any heed to them. She selected the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.) as her life partner despite her<br />
contemporaries mocking her for marrying an orphan.<br />
Selecting a person devoid of worldly<br />
embellishments as her husband underscores that<br />
despite being wealthy, Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) was not<br />
inclined towards the world; rather, she was<br />
predisposed towards ethics and spirituality and hence<br />
chose the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), who outranked all<br />
men in Arabia on this count.<br />
The marriage ceremony was held under the<br />
auspices of the Holy Prophet(s.a.w.a.)’s guardian and<br />
uncle, Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.). He (a.s.) performed the<br />
marriage rites on behalf of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.),<br />
while Waraqah b. Naufal did so on behalf of Hazrat<br />
Khadijah (s.a.).<br />
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JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.)’s role in the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.)’s marriage is a direct response to those who<br />
are skeptical about his faith. He was a monotheist and<br />
if he was anything else, Allah and His Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
would never have allowed him to be associated with<br />
the latter’s marriage to Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.).<br />
Likewise, Waraqah was amongst the scholars of<br />
that era and was not an idol worshipper. Thus, two<br />
monotheists laid the foundation of a marriage which<br />
was to give Islam, a monotheist religion of the highest<br />
order, its most immaculate personalities starting from<br />
Hazrat Fatimah Zahra (s.a.) and ending in Imam Mahdi<br />
(a.t.f.s.).<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 16, p. 65)<br />
When the marriage ceremony concluded, Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.) proceeded towards his house. At<br />
that moment Hazrat Khadijahh (s.a.) declared:<br />
Proceed towards Your house, my house is your<br />
house and I am your slave.<br />
(Safinah al-Behaar, vol. 16, p. 279)<br />
These words of Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) manifest her<br />
recognition of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and her selfsacrificing<br />
personality. Her offering all her wealth to<br />
the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) proves that the temporal<br />
world held no meaning for her and she was constantly<br />
aiming for the hereafter.<br />
Many researchers are of the opinion that Hazrat<br />
Khadijah (s.a.)’s marriage with the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) was her first and only marriage.<br />
The greatest event in the history of humanity<br />
occurred fifteen years after this marriage when the<br />
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) proclaimed. Due to her<br />
enlightened heart, she was the first to declare her<br />
faith in the message of Islam.<br />
Ameerul Momineen Ali b. Abi Talib (a.s.) says:<br />
In those days Islam was observed only in one<br />
house, in which Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and<br />
Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) resided and I was the<br />
third one (in the house).<br />
(Nahjul Balagah, Khutbah-e-Qase’aa)<br />
None but these three personalities could claim to<br />
be the first Muslims.<br />
Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) offered all her wealth to the<br />
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and declared:<br />
Whatever belongs to me is present before you,<br />
and it is at your disposal; you use it as you like in the<br />
path of glorifying the Words of Allah, and for the<br />
propagation of His Religion.<br />
(Ummul Momeneen Khadijah al-Tahera, p. 32)<br />
The harmony in her words and her actions by<br />
offering herself and all the wealth in the way of Allah<br />
is proof of the esteem she accorded Allah and His<br />
Religion. The sacrifices that she offered in the way of<br />
Islam were the cause of Allah conveying salutations to<br />
her through Hazrat Jibrael (a.s.).<br />
Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.)’s contribution can be<br />
summarized as follows:<br />
1. Financial support<br />
Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) offered her wealth without<br />
a moment’s hesitation to the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s.<br />
She never demanded anything in return and never<br />
interfered in his (s.a.w.a.) decisions. On the contrary,<br />
she supported him at each and every step. History<br />
does not mention a single incident wherein she spoke<br />
arrogantly about her wealth or embarrassed the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.) by reminding him (s.a.w.a.) about<br />
her favors.<br />
2. Spiritual support<br />
When the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) commenced his<br />
mission of Islam, there was a storm of opposition<br />
against him. He was attacked spiritually (he was called<br />
insane, magician soothsayer, relations were severed<br />
by near ones etc) and physically (economic boycott,<br />
stone-pelting, etc). At such a crucial juncture, she<br />
supported him and soothed him with her affection,<br />
which in turn energized him to face the opposition. If<br />
she had not created a favorable environment inside<br />
the house and God forbid, he (s.a.w.a) also had to face<br />
opposition from within the family, it would have<br />
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severely impaired his efforts to spread the message of<br />
Islam. She was not just the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s<br />
partner in his (s.a.w.a.) material life; she was also his<br />
(s.a.w.a.) confidante in his (s.a.w.a.) spiritual life. It<br />
will not be an exaggeration to state that she partnered<br />
him (s.a.w.a.) in propagating the message of Islam.<br />
3. Consulting support<br />
Numerous incidents underscore that Hazrat<br />
Khadijah (s.a.) was also involved in critical discussions<br />
with the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). This highlights her<br />
position and the loftiness of her beliefs.<br />
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) got comfort from her and<br />
discussed important matters with her.<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 16, p. 10)<br />
None can deny the role of Hazrat Khadijah’s (s.a.)<br />
wealth in the propagation of Islam. This is the reason<br />
that the famous Maaleki scholar Muhammad b.<br />
Ilamovi claimed:<br />
Islam was established with the sword of Ali<br />
(bravery) and the wealth of Khadijah.<br />
(Manaqib-e- Khadijaht al-Kubra, Preface p. 3)<br />
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) declared:<br />
I have not benefited from any wealth like the<br />
wealth of Khadijah.<br />
(Amaali-e-Shaikh-e-Tusi (r.a.), p. 468)<br />
The noteworthy point of Hazrat Khadijah’s (s.a.)<br />
character is that she never displayed any vanity<br />
despite possessing huge wealth.<br />
Gift of Allah<br />
Allah, the Almighty, bestowed a very precious gift<br />
on Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.). This blessed and precious<br />
gift was the birth of Hazrat Sidiqqah al-Tahera Fatimah<br />
Zehra (s.a.). Allah made a special provision for this<br />
gift. For granting this gift Allah invited Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) to Me’raaj (ascent to Paradise) and conferred<br />
on him a perfumed fruit of Paradise. The Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) handed over this trust to Hazrat Khadijahh<br />
(s.a.). When the time of Hazrat Fatimah’s (s.a.) birth<br />
neared, she sought help from the ladies of the<br />
Quraysh. They declined to help her citing her<br />
stubbornness in ignoring their advice and marrying an<br />
orphan.<br />
At that moment, four ladies entered her room and<br />
introduced themselves thus as Sarah, wife of Hazrat<br />
Ibrahim (a.s.), Aasiya, wife of Firaun, Maryam, mother<br />
of Hazrat Isa (a.s.) and Kulsoom, sister of Hazrat<br />
Moosa (a.s.).<br />
They said, “Allah has sent us to help you and we<br />
bring you glad tidings of a girl. Allah has reserved lot<br />
of bounties in the progeny of this child.”<br />
(Aamali-e-Saduq (r.a.), p. 470)<br />
This depicts the honor enjoyed by Hazrat Khadijah<br />
(s.a.) in front of Allah. When the obstinate women of<br />
this world refused to help her, Allah sent forth the<br />
pure ladies from Paradise to assist her thereby<br />
actualizing the verse of the Holy Quran:<br />
If you help Allah, He will help you.<br />
(Surah Muhammad (47): 7)<br />
Jealousy<br />
Great personalities not only suffer from physical<br />
and spiritual attacks but also from the envy of the<br />
people. Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) enjoyed a unique<br />
position among the wives of the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.). This became a cause of envy for some of the<br />
wives who followed. They manifested their jealousy in<br />
different ways viz. taunts, hurtful comments (directed<br />
at the Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s fond memories of her). On<br />
his part, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) rebutted these<br />
envious comments and praised Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.).<br />
However, even this did little to stem the envy.<br />
Ayesha narrates: “The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
always remembered Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) fondly. He<br />
(s.a.w.a.) used to praise her and often mentioned her<br />
great stature. One day, I could not control myself and<br />
taunted ‘Khadijah was an old woman. Allah has<br />
granted you with much better wives.’”<br />
When he (s.a.w.a.) heard this, he (s.a.w.a.) became<br />
furious and said:<br />
By Allah! Allah has not given me a better wife<br />
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JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
than her. She accepted faith when people were<br />
disbelievers. She verified my truthfulness when<br />
people denied me. She gave her wealth when<br />
people deprived me. Allah has bestowed me<br />
children through her while others have not<br />
been blessed similarly.<br />
(Usud al-Ghaabah, vol. 5, p. 436)<br />
Then Ayesha says I decided that “By Allah! I will<br />
not remember her with venom in future.”<br />
(Tazkerah al-Khawaas, p. 303)<br />
Respect and honor of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
for her<br />
Till the time she was alive, the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) did not marry any other woman as a respect<br />
to her. He married again only after her demise. He<br />
(s.a.w.a.) always remembered her fondly according<br />
much respect to her memories. His respect for her<br />
was to an extent that he never abandoned her friends<br />
so much so that whenever he (s.a.w.a.) sacrificed an<br />
animal he (s.a.w.a.) sent the meat to them.<br />
It is narrated from Anas b. Maalik that whenever<br />
the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) received a gift, he used to<br />
say: Go and give this to so and so person, she was a<br />
friend of Khadijah and Khadijah loved her.<br />
(Safinah al-Behaar, vol. 1, p. 380)<br />
We have already discussed her extraordinary<br />
merits. In this regard, few incidents are notable:<br />
1. Hazrat Jibraeel (a.s.) came in the presence of<br />
the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and informed:<br />
O Muhammad! Khadijah is coming in your<br />
presence; convey salutations of Allah to her<br />
and give her glad tidings that Allah has made<br />
a house for her in Paradise wherein there is<br />
neither grief nor sorrow.<br />
(Tazkerah al-Khawaas, p. 302)<br />
2. Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) informed Hazrat<br />
Khadijah (s.a.)<br />
O Khadijah! Surely Allah, the Almighty prides<br />
Himself, over the respected angels, many<br />
times in a day because of you.<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 16, p. 78)<br />
There are many such traditions that underscore<br />
the outstanding position of Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.) in<br />
front of Allah and His Prophet (s.a.w.a.).<br />
Conclusion<br />
The number of people coming in the fold of Islam<br />
increased because of the efforts of Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.). Similarly, the oppression of the disbelievers<br />
also increased. The zenith of oppression was the<br />
economic and social boycott which forced the Muslims<br />
to take shelter in the Cave of Abu Talib (a.s.). The<br />
difficulties increased by the day. There was a<br />
prohibition on Muslims to interact with the masses.<br />
This continued till the tenth year of Proclamation<br />
(Besat of the Prophet s.a.w.a.). During that difficult<br />
period, the existence of the Muslims hinged on Hazrat<br />
Khadijah’s (s.a.) wealth and Hazrat Abu Talib’s (a.s.)<br />
backing. Finally a situation came when the Muslims<br />
exhausted Hazrat Khadijah’s (s.a.) wealth.<br />
At that time, Islam and Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
suffered a dual setback with the demise of Hazrat Abu<br />
Taalib (a.s.) and Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.). This calamity<br />
was so great that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) named<br />
the year ‘Aamul Huzn’ (Year of Grief).<br />
Over the last fourteen centuries, we have seen<br />
many personalities who have served Islam but we are<br />
hard pressed to find anyone more exemplary than<br />
Hazrat Khadijah (s.a.).<br />
Even though the Salafis have demolished her<br />
shrine in Jannatul Moalla on the pretext of<br />
‘safeguarding Tauheed’, like they have demolished the<br />
shrines of her children (a.s.) in Jannatul Baqee, her<br />
remembrance is forever fresh in the hearts of those<br />
who feel the pain of Islam and the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.).<br />
We wait for the day when her son, Hazrat Hujjat<br />
Ibn al-Hasan al-Askari (a.s.) will reappear and avenge<br />
the injustice meted out to her and her children!<br />
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Imam Ali (a.s.)’s Will – some selections<br />
Good Manners<br />
The following are from the will of Imam Ali bin Abi<br />
Talib (a.s.):<br />
“I advise the believers to declare that there is<br />
no god but Allah exclusively without any<br />
associate and that Muhammad is His servant<br />
and messenger. He sent him with guidance and<br />
the right religion so as to make it prevail all the<br />
other religions even if the polytheists detest it.<br />
Allah’s blessings and compliments be upon<br />
Mohammed. Then my prayer, sacrifice, life,<br />
and death are all for Allah, the Lord of the<br />
universe. Nothing is equal to Him. Thus are the<br />
commandments, which I have received and I<br />
am the first Muslim (submitted to the will of<br />
Allah)”<br />
“I advise you, O Hasan, as well as all my sons,<br />
family members, and every believer who<br />
receives this will, to fear Allah, your Lord and<br />
do not die before you are Muslims. Cling to the<br />
tie of Allah altogether and do not be discrepant<br />
for I have heard the Holy Prophet (peace be<br />
upon him and his family) saying: “Settlement<br />
of mutual differences is better than the general<br />
prayers and fasting, while the true fatal thing,<br />
which is also the shaver of the religion (deen),<br />
is the rupture of the mutual relations.” All<br />
power belongs to Allah.<br />
Look after your relatives and build good<br />
relations with them and Allah will make your<br />
trial – on the Day of Resurrection - easy.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of orphans. So, they should not be<br />
ruined in your presence. I heard the Prophet<br />
(peace be upon him and his family) saying:<br />
“For him whoever provides for an orphan till he<br />
attains independency, Allah will make Paradise<br />
his inevitable abode as He will make Hell the<br />
inevitable abode of those who wrongfully<br />
consume the property of orphans.”<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of the Quran. No one should excel you<br />
in acting upon it.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of your neighbors, because they were<br />
the subject of the Prophet’s advice. He went on<br />
advising in their favor till we thought he would<br />
allow them a share in inheritance.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of your Lord’s House (Kaaba). Do not<br />
forsake it so long as you live, because if it is<br />
abandoned you will not be spared. The least<br />
thing that the pilgrim will gain after returning<br />
from hajj is the forgiveness of all his past sins.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of prayer, because it is the best of the<br />
{<br />
The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) informed: There is not a hoopoe but it is written under its wings in<br />
the Syriac language – Muhammad’s progeny (a.s.) is the best of creation.<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar, v. 27, p. 261 from Amaali of Shaikh Tusi (r.a.))<br />
15
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
deeds and the pillar of your religion.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of the zakat because it extinguishes the<br />
wrath of your Lord.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of fasting for the month of Ramadan<br />
because it is a protection against the fire of<br />
Hell.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of the paupers and the poor. You should<br />
make them have shares in your livings.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of jihad with the help of your property,<br />
lives and tongues in the way of Allah. Those<br />
who practice jihad are only two categories—<br />
either an imam of guidance or an obedient of<br />
an imam who pursues his guidance.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of the progeny of your Prophet (peace<br />
be upon him and his family). They should never<br />
let them be wronged among you when you are<br />
able to protect them.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of the companions of your Prophet<br />
(peace be upon him and his family) who neither<br />
commit a dissent nor did they succor a heretic.<br />
The Prophet (peace be upon him and his family)<br />
ordered to keep them and cursed those who<br />
commit a dissent or succor a heretic whether<br />
among them or among others.<br />
(Fear) Allah (and) keep Allah in view in the<br />
matter of your women and bondmaids. The<br />
last word of your Prophet was his saying: “I<br />
advise you to keep the two weak— women and<br />
bondmaids.”<br />
Keep the prayers, keep the prayers, keep the<br />
prayers. Do not care for any blame from<br />
anybody in the sake of Allah so that Allah will<br />
protect you against whoever intends to hurt or<br />
wrong you. Use good wording with people as<br />
Allah ordered you.<br />
Do not give up bidding for good and forbidding<br />
from evil lest the mischievous gain positions<br />
over you, and then if you will pray to Allah<br />
against them, the prayers will not be granted.<br />
O my sons, you should keep to a respect for<br />
kinship, spending for others, and mutual<br />
collaboration. Avoid turning away from one<br />
another, severing mutual relations, and<br />
discrepancy. Co-operate with each other in<br />
righteousness and piety, not in sin and hostility.<br />
Have fear of Allah; He is stern in His retribution.<br />
May Allah save you, as a household, and save<br />
your Prophet among you. I deposit you with<br />
Allah and recite upon you peace and Allah’s<br />
mercy and blessings.<br />
He (a.s.) then kept saying: “There is no god but<br />
Allah,” till he passed away.<br />
(‘Tohaf al-Uqool an Aal al-Rasool’ compiled by Abu Muhammad al-Hasan<br />
bin Ali bin al-Husain bin Sho’b al-Harrani; translated by Badr Shahin)<br />
Continued from page 21<br />
q<br />
q<br />
q<br />
q<br />
q<br />
The Raj’at as-Shams Mosque in Madina<br />
The House of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) in<br />
Madina, where he lived after migrating from<br />
Makkah<br />
The complex (mohalla) of Banu Hashim in<br />
Madina<br />
The House of Imam Ali (a.s.) where Imam Hassan<br />
(a.s.) and Imam Husain (a.s.) were born<br />
The house of Janabe Hamza, uncle of the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
We observe the 8th of Shawwal as a Day of<br />
Mourning and Day of Protest against the<br />
Wahabbis’ vandalism, desecration, and<br />
Destruction of the Graveyard of Jannat Al-<br />
Baqi and other Revered Graves/Shrines/Sites<br />
that are held in Reverence and as Sacred by<br />
all Muslims who love the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) and his Pure Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)<br />
It is a 100 Years of Shame for all Muslims that<br />
these Sacred Places lay destroyed to this day.<br />
(The Gems of Ja’fari, Vol. 2, printed by Ja’fari Propagation Centre)<br />
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July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
Nearness to Allah (s.w.t.)<br />
Reward and Recompense for Fasting<br />
The sawm (fasting) is one of the Furu’ al-Din (the<br />
duties to be performed according to Islamic Shari’ah)<br />
of the holy religion of Islam. It is wajib (mandatory)<br />
upon every mukallaf to have sawm in the month of<br />
Ramazan. In order to obey the command of Allah<br />
(s.w.t.), from the time of Salatal-Fajr to the time of<br />
Salat al-Maghrib one must refrain from muftirat<br />
(certain acts which break or invalidate the sawm)<br />
which make the sawm batil (invalid).<br />
In Islam, much importance has been attached to<br />
sawm. Islam maintains a great deal of value for this<br />
holy act. The reward and recompense of sawm is so<br />
vital in Islam that the Almighty Allah (s.w.t.) without<br />
His prior specifying the sawab and the recompense of<br />
sawm, ascribes its reward to Himself.<br />
The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said that Allah (s.w.t.)<br />
stated:<br />
“The sawm is for Me and I will give reward for<br />
it.”<br />
With its specific characteristics, the sawm plays an<br />
exceptionally effective role in the liberation of man<br />
from the servitude of ambitions, carnal desires,<br />
voluptuousness as well as in the purification of the<br />
soul from involvement in sinful acts.<br />
The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) told Jabir ibn ‘Abdillah<br />
Sayyid Muhammad Husayn Tabatabaei<br />
al-Ansari:<br />
“O Jabir, this is the month of Ramazan and the<br />
one who has sawm (observes fasting) during<br />
the day and stays awake at night to commune<br />
with Allah, abstains from eating haram food,<br />
and guards against evils and using abusive<br />
language, gets out of sins as he leaves the<br />
month of Ramazan behind.”<br />
Jabir said: “O Prophet of Allah, what a good news<br />
is it!”<br />
The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) stated:<br />
“O Jabir, how demanding and exacting are the<br />
conditions for the sawm!”<br />
Al-Imam Ja’far ibn Muhammad al-Sadiq (a.s.) has<br />
stated:<br />
“The sawm serves as a strong shield against<br />
the fire of the Hell.”<br />
Ramazan, The Month of Allah<br />
In Islamic ahadith many praiseworthy and<br />
interesting names such as “the auspicious month” and<br />
“the best period for the recital of Qur’an” have been<br />
mentioned for the month of Ramazan. But the name<br />
“the month of Allah” is the most outstanding name<br />
and the most beautiful title which has been used for<br />
the month of Ramazan.<br />
{<br />
Imam Hasan b. Ali (a.s.) said:<br />
I have heard from my grandfather, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) that he used to say: ‘I have been<br />
created from the Light of Allah and my Ahle Bait have been created from my Light and the<br />
lovers of Ahle Bait have been created from their Light. All other people are from hellfire.’<br />
(Hayaat al-Quloob, v. 2, chap. 1)<br />
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JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
In spite of the fact that every month is “Allah’s<br />
month”, this month is specifically called “the month of<br />
Allah” due to its great importance. Thus this name has<br />
in itself endowed this month with a special superiority<br />
and a specific spirituality. In this month, the greatest<br />
Divine Book (the Holy Qur’an) has been revealed.<br />
With the advent of the holy month of Ramazan,<br />
Allah bestows His servants with His blessings. A special<br />
enlightenment and serenity generate in the spirit of<br />
man. For the worshipping of Allah, the purification of<br />
the soul, and moral reformation, a special preparedness<br />
becomes manifest in those who have sawm.<br />
On the last Friday of the month of Sha’ban, the<br />
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) stated the following concerning<br />
the magnificence and value of “the month of Allah”:<br />
“O people, the month of Allah, along with its<br />
blessings and salvation, has revealed itself to<br />
you. It is a month which is regarded as the best<br />
of all the months by Allah. Its days, nights, and<br />
hours are the best of all. It is a month in which<br />
you are invited to be the guest of Allah and are<br />
entitled to His favour and generosity.”<br />
“In this month, your breathing will have the<br />
sawab of tasbih saying “Subhanallah” (Glory<br />
be to Allah) and zikr and your sleeping will<br />
have the sawab of the worship of Allah.”<br />
“If you resort to Allah in this month and worship<br />
Him, Allah will grant your prayers. Therefore, with all<br />
your truthfulness and sincerity and with a pure heart<br />
pray to Allah to grant you His Divine dispensations for<br />
having sawm and reciting the Holy Qur’an, for one<br />
who remains deprived of the forgiveness and blessings<br />
of Allah in this bountiful and blessed month is indeed<br />
unfortunate.”<br />
Sawm Leads To Taqwa<br />
The Almighty Allah states in the Holy Qur’an:<br />
“O you who believe! the sawm is prescribed<br />
for you, as it was prescribed for those before<br />
you, so that you may have taqwa.”<br />
(The Holy Qur’an, 2:183)<br />
Islam enjoins its followers to have sawm for a<br />
complete month (during the month of Ramazan). By<br />
having sawm for one month, Muslims prepare<br />
themselves for the state of taqwa in its entirety,<br />
because when a man refrains from satisfying his<br />
natural physical desires, he can very well abstain from<br />
satisfying his carnal desires.<br />
In order to attain such a degree of perfection, Islam<br />
surely does not consider only abstaining from eating<br />
and drinking to be sufficient for the sawm, rather it<br />
orders a person who has sawm to abstain from<br />
whatever causes indulgence in evils and the<br />
commitment of sins or leads him to satanic temptations<br />
and indulgence in his unruly carnal desires.<br />
Muftirat that Render the Sawm invalid<br />
Several muftirat (certain acts which invalidate the<br />
sawm) render the sawm batil. These include the<br />
following:<br />
(i) Eating and drinking, although these things may<br />
not be usual drinks or eatables such as soil or the<br />
gum of trees.<br />
(ii) The sexual intercourse renders the sawm batil.<br />
(iii) Masturbation, that is, engagement in any sexual<br />
activity which leads to seminal ejaculation.<br />
(iv) Ascribing a lie to Allah, the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.), and the successors of the Holy Prophet<br />
(a.s.).<br />
(v) Allowing thick dust to reach one’s throat.<br />
(vi) Immersing the head entirely in water.<br />
(vii) Remaining in the state of janabah, hayd and nifas<br />
up to the Adhan for Salat al-Fajr.<br />
(viii) Application of an enema with a liquid substance.<br />
(ix) Vomiting, provided that it is done deliberately.<br />
For further information, reference should be made<br />
to al-risalat al-’amaliyyah (Islamic treatises written by<br />
mujtahidin for use by their muqallidin for performing<br />
Islamic duties).<br />
[Source: Imam Reza Network, Shiastudies.net]<br />
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July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
Jannat ul Baqi - History of The Cemetery at<br />
Madina<br />
Jannat ul Baqi - where Sayyedah Fatema (a.s.),<br />
Imam Hasan (a.s.), Imam Ali ibn Husain (a.s.), Imam<br />
Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) and Imam Ja’far as-Sadiq<br />
(a.s.) are buried<br />
On 8th Shawwal, Wednesday, in the year 1345<br />
A.H. (April 21, 1925), the Mausoleums in Jannatul al-<br />
Baqi (Madina) were demolished by ibn Saud. In the<br />
same year (1925), he also demolished the Tombs of<br />
Holy personages at Jannat al-Mualla (Makkah<br />
Mukarama) where the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s mother,<br />
wife, grandfather, and other ancestors are buried.<br />
Destruction of sacred sites in Hijaz by the Saudi<br />
Wahhabis continues even today. According to some<br />
scholars, what is happening in Hijaz is actually a<br />
conspiracy plotted by the Jews against Islam, under<br />
the guise of Tawheed. The idea is to eradicate the<br />
Islamic legacy and heritage, and to systematically<br />
remove all its vestiges so that in the days to come,<br />
Muslims will have no affiliation with their Religious<br />
history.<br />
The Origins of Al-Baqi<br />
Literally, “al-Baqi” means a garden of trees. It is<br />
also known as “Jannat al-Baqi” due to its sanctity, since<br />
in it are buried many of our Prophet’s relatives and<br />
companions.<br />
The first companion buried in al-Baqi was Usman<br />
b. Madhoon who died on the 3rd of Sha’ban in the 3rd<br />
year of Hijrah. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) ordered<br />
certain trees to be felled, and in its midst, he buried his<br />
dear companion, placing two stones over the grave.<br />
In the following years, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s<br />
son Ibrahim (a.s.), who died in infancy and over whom<br />
the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) wept bitterly, was also buried<br />
there. The people of Madinah then began to use that<br />
site for the burial of their own dead, because the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.) used to greet those who were buried<br />
in al-Baqi by saying “Peace be upon you, O Abode of<br />
the faithful! Allah willing, we should soon join you. O’<br />
Allah, forgive the fellows of al-Baqi”<br />
The site of the burial ground at al-Baqi was<br />
gradually extended, nearly seven thousand companions<br />
of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) were buried there, not to<br />
mention those of the Ahlul-Bayt (a.s.). Imam Hasan b.<br />
Ali (a.s.), Imam Ali b. al-Husain, Imam Muhammad al-<br />
Baqir (a.s.) and Imam Ja’far as-Sadiq (a.s.) were all<br />
buried there. The other relatives of the Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) who were also buried at al-Baqi include his<br />
Aunts Safiya, and Aatika, and his Aunt Fatima bint<br />
Asad, the Mother of Imam Ali (a.s.). The third caliph<br />
Uthman was buried outside al-Baqi, but with later<br />
extensions, his grave was included in the area. In the<br />
later years, great Muslim scholars like Malik bin Anas<br />
and many others were buried there too. Thus, al-Baqi<br />
became a well-known place of great historic<br />
significance to all Muslims.<br />
The First Destruction of Al-Baqi<br />
History<br />
Iqbal Husain<br />
The Wahhabis believe that visiting the graves and<br />
the shrines of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), the Imams<br />
(a.s.) or the saints was a form of idolatry and totally<br />
19
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
un-Islamic. Those who did not conform to their belief<br />
were killed and their property confiscated. Since their<br />
first invasion of Iraq, and in fact even to this day, the<br />
Wahhabis, as well as other rulers of self-proclaimed<br />
Muslim states, have been carrying out massacres from<br />
which no Muslim who disagreed with them was<br />
spared. Obviously, the rest of the Islamic world viewed<br />
those graves with deep reverence. Had it not been so,<br />
the two caliphs Abu Bakr and Umar would not have<br />
expressed their desire for burial near the grave of the<br />
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.).<br />
From 1205 A.H. to 1217 A.H., the Wahhabis made<br />
several attempts to gain foothold in Hijaz, but failed.<br />
Finally, in 1217 A.H., they somehow emerged victorious<br />
in Taif where they spilled the innocent blood of<br />
Muslims. In 1218 A.H., they entered Makkah and<br />
destroyed all sacred places and domes there, including<br />
the one which served as a canopy over the well of<br />
Zamzam. In 1221 (circa 1806 A.D.), the Wahhabis<br />
entered Madina to desecrate al-Baqi as well as every<br />
Mosque they came across. An attempt was even made<br />
to demolish the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s tomb, but for<br />
one reason or another, the idea was abandoned. In<br />
subsequent years, the Muslims from Iraq, Syria, and<br />
Egypt, were refused entry into Makkah for Hajj. King<br />
Al-Saud set a pre-condition that those who wished to<br />
perform the pilgrimage would have to accept<br />
Wahhabism or else be branded as non-Muslims,<br />
thereby becoming ineligible for entry into the Haram<br />
(Holy Precincts).<br />
Al-Baqi was razed to the ground, with no sign of<br />
any grave or tomb whatsoever, But the Saudis were<br />
still not quite satisfied with doing all of that. Their King<br />
ordered the three African attendants at the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s shrine to show him where the<br />
treasure of valuable gifts was stored. The Wahhabis<br />
plundered the treasure for their own use.<br />
Thousands of Muslims fled Makkah and Madina in<br />
a bid to save their lives and escape from the mounting<br />
pressure and persecution at the hands of the Wahhabis.<br />
Muslims from all over the world denounced this Saudi<br />
savagery and exhorted the Caliphate of the Ottoman<br />
Empire to save the sacred shrines from total<br />
destruction. Then, as it is known, Muhammad Ali<br />
Basha attacked Hijaz and, with support of local tribes,<br />
managed to restore law and order in Makkah and<br />
Madina, dislodging the Al-Saud clansmen. The entire<br />
Muslim world celebrated this victory with great fanfare<br />
and rejoicing. In Cairo, the celebrations continued for<br />
five days. No doubt, the joy was due to the fact that<br />
pilgrims were once more allowed freely to go for Hajj,<br />
and the sacred shrines were once again restored.<br />
In 1818 A.D., the Ottaman Caliph Abdul Majid and<br />
his successors, Caliphs Abdul Hamid and Mohammed,<br />
carried out the reconstruction of all sacred places,<br />
restoring the Islamic heritage at all important sites. In<br />
1848 and 1860 A.D. further renovations were made at<br />
the expense of nearly seven hundred thousand<br />
pounds, most of which came from the donations<br />
collected at the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s tomb.<br />
The Second Plunder by the Wahhabis<br />
The Ottoman Empire had added to the splendor of<br />
Madina and Makkah by building religious structures of<br />
great beauty and architectural value. It became as a<br />
small beautiful city resembling Istanbul, with white<br />
walls, golden slender Minarets and green fields.<br />
In 1924 A.D., the Wahhabis entered Hijaz for a<br />
second time and carried out another merciless plunder<br />
and massacre. People were killed in the streets. Houses<br />
were razed to the ground. Women and children too<br />
were not spared. Awn bin Hashim (Sharif of Makkah)<br />
writes: “Before me, a valley appeared to have been<br />
paved with corpses, dried blood staining everywhere<br />
all around. There was hardly a tree, which didn’t have<br />
one or two dead bodies near its roots.”<br />
In 1925, Madina was surrendered to the Wahhabis<br />
onslaught. All Islamic heritages were destroyed. The<br />
only shrine that remained intact was that of the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
Ibn Jabhan said: “We know that the tomb standing<br />
20
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
on the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s grave is against our<br />
principles, and to have his grave in a Mosque is an<br />
abominable sin.”<br />
Tombs of Janabe Hamza and other Martyrs were<br />
demolished at Uhud. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)’s<br />
Mosque was bombarded. On protest by Muslims,<br />
assurances were given by Ibn Saud that it will be<br />
restored but the promise was never fulfilled. A promise<br />
was given that Hijaz will have an Islamic multinational<br />
government. This was also abandoned.<br />
In 1925 A.D. Jannat al-Mu’alla, the scared cemetery<br />
at Makkah was destroyed along with the house where<br />
the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was born. Since then, this<br />
day is the day of mourning for all Muslims.<br />
It is not strange that the Wahhabis find it offensive<br />
to have the tombs, shrines and other places of<br />
importance preserved, while the remains of their<br />
Saudi kings are being guarded at the expense of<br />
millions of dollars.<br />
Protest from Indian Muslims<br />
In 1926, shocked Muslims held protest gatherings<br />
all over the world. Resolutions were passed and a<br />
statement outlining the crimes perpetrated by<br />
Wahhabis was issued and included the following:<br />
The destruction and desecration of the Holy places,<br />
i.e. the birthplace of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.),<br />
the graves of Banu Hashim in Makkah and in<br />
Jannat al-Baqi (Madina)<br />
q The refusal of the Wahhabis to allow Muslims to<br />
recite Surah al-Fatiha and Ziyarah at those graves<br />
q The destruction of the places of worship i.e.<br />
Masjid Janab-e-Hamza, Masjid Janab-e-Abu<br />
Rasheed, in addition to the Tombs of Imams<br />
(a.s.) and the Sahaba (Prophet’s companions)<br />
q Interference in the performance of Hajj rituals<br />
q Forcing the Muslims to follow the Wahhabi<br />
innovations and to abandon their own ways<br />
according to the guidance of the Imams they<br />
follow.<br />
q<br />
q<br />
The massacre of Sayyids in Taif, Madina, Asha,<br />
and Qatif<br />
The demolition of the grave of the Imams (a.s.)<br />
at al-Baqi, which deeply offended and grieved all<br />
Shias<br />
Protest from other Countries<br />
Similar protests were lodged by Muslims in Iran,<br />
Iraq, Egypt, Indonesia, and Turkey, all of them<br />
condemned the Saudi Wahhabis for their barbaric<br />
acts. Some scholars wrote tracts and books to tell the<br />
world the fact that what was happening in Hijaz was<br />
actually a conspiracy plotted by the Jews against Islam,<br />
under the guise of Tawheed. The idea was to eradicate<br />
the Islamic legacy and heritage and to systematically<br />
remove all its vestiges so that in the days to come,<br />
Muslims will have no affiliation with their Religious<br />
history.<br />
A partial list of the demolished graves and shrines<br />
apart from Jannat al-Baqi:<br />
Al-Mualla graveyard in Makkah including:<br />
q The grave of Sayyida Khadija Kubra bint Khuwailid<br />
(a.s.), the wife of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
q The grave of Janabe Amina bint Wahab, Mother<br />
of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
q The grave of Janabe Abu Talib, uncle of the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and father of Imam Ali (a.s.)<br />
q The grave of Janabe Abdul Muttalib, grandfather<br />
of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
q The grave of Janabe Hamza, uncle of the Holy<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.) at Uhud<br />
q The graves of the other martyrs of Uhud<br />
q The grave of Bibi Hawa (Eve), the mother of all<br />
mankind, at Jeddah<br />
q The grave of Abdullah ibn Abdul Muttalib, the<br />
father of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) in Madina<br />
q The House of Sorrows (Bayt al-Ahzan) of Sayyida<br />
Fatima (a.s.) in Madina<br />
q The Janabe Salman al-Farsi Mosque in Madina<br />
Continued on page 16<br />
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JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
Continued from page 4<br />
of Allah’. The killer of the representatives of Allah (a.s.)<br />
is the ‘enemy of Allah’. Even today, some people with<br />
the same guile appearance are seen. They consider<br />
those who demolished the shrine of Samarrah and<br />
intend to demolish the shrines of Karbala and Najaf as<br />
‘true’ Muslims. Which religion can the group which<br />
sheds the blood of the innocents and disrespects the<br />
dead bodies represent? Which school can they be<br />
affiliated to? Islam has suffered enormously by these<br />
mercenary pens and sold-out consciences in the past<br />
and is still suffering to this day. The need of the hour is<br />
that the people should stand up against these lumpen<br />
group and express their distaste otherwise they will<br />
have to regret as per the proverb ‘whoever digs a pit<br />
will fall into it’.<br />
O Allah! Protect the land of Iraq in this holy month<br />
and include us in amongst the best of the servants.<br />
Aameen.<br />
Pain of the honoured (month of) Shawwal<br />
Nobody in the world is more oppressed than the<br />
Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). Before their martyrdom they were<br />
the target of oppression but even after their martyrdom<br />
they do not get tranquillity. Whether it is the Dome of<br />
Jannatul Baqee in Madinah or Samarrah where the<br />
shrine of the Holy Imams (a.s.) were destroyed.<br />
Similarly, futile efforts to destroy the shrines of Karbala,<br />
Najaf and Syria are seen arising in recent times. The<br />
notorious group ‘ISIS’, has made the territory of Iraq<br />
‘the land of no peace’ and they consider the views and<br />
ideologies of all religions other than their own as false<br />
and harbor special hatred for the beliefs of the school<br />
of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). Their ambition is to destroy the<br />
shrines of the Holy Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) and also they have<br />
plans to demolish the Holy Kaaba. History has testified<br />
that after the martyrdom of Imam Husain (a.s.), Yazeed<br />
ibn Moawiyah had performed two additional dark<br />
feats: One is the devastation of Madinah and the other<br />
– setting fire to the Holy Kaaba. Following suit of his<br />
OUR REPRESENTATIVE IN BANGALORE, INDIA<br />
Mr. Sohil Merchant<br />
House No. 11, 2nd A Cross, Anepalya, Bangalore - 560030. Ph - +919742241350<br />
grandfather the so-called ‘caliph’ Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi<br />
has desired to destroy Makkah and Madinah. When<br />
the Saudi government – who themselves destroyed<br />
the Holy Shrines of Ahlul Bait (a.s.) in Baqee, Madinah<br />
– heard the ISIS’s declared intention of destroying the<br />
Holy Kaaba, they immediately gave comments against<br />
the ISIS and declared them terrorist group. These<br />
remarks is not due to religious feeling but due to the<br />
fear that if the House of Allah, the Holy Kaaba is<br />
destroyed, Muslims will stop coming to Hajj and the<br />
amount which is gained in the form of tax from the<br />
Hajis shall not be received by the Saudis. Evidently this<br />
is not religious pain but commercial pain. Otherwise<br />
disgust from ISIS was not possible for Saudi because<br />
both have the same goal and destination. Both have<br />
hatred towards the lovers of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) and both<br />
have the mission to destroy the tombs and shrines of<br />
the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) and oppressing the Shias - the true<br />
lovers of the Holy Ahlul Bayt (a.s.).<br />
But people should know that there is a limit to<br />
wrongdoing. As per the Holy Qur’an:<br />
“And they who act unjustly shall know to<br />
what final place of turning they shall turn<br />
back.”<br />
(Surah Shoa’ra (26): Verse 227)<br />
Soon the stage of oppression will be turned. Just<br />
government will be established. Reappearance of<br />
Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is near and leadership of the<br />
school of Ahle Bait (a.s.) is soon to come. On that day<br />
victory will be for justice and equity. There will remain<br />
neither oppression nor the oppressed, only the<br />
government of the just Twelfth Imam (a.s.) will prevail<br />
in complete peace where the lion and the goat will<br />
drink water from the same pond. The goat will not fear<br />
the lion nor will the lion look at the goat.<br />
O Allah! Hasten the return of Your representative.<br />
OUR REPRESENTATIVE IN U.K.<br />
Mrs. Nighat Panjwani<br />
125, Goshawk Drive, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 8AP, England, U.K. Tel. : (0245) 35 7577<br />
22
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
Ethics<br />
Forgive and Forget<br />
Whether it is personal, family, or community,<br />
grudges hold us back from so much progress. Forgiving<br />
someone, and being able to reunite, is a fight against<br />
the ego.<br />
It’s that time again: the month of forgiveness, the<br />
month of blessings, the Holy month of Ramadhan. We<br />
are constantly told that this is the special month in<br />
which Allah (s.w.t.) has invited us to beseech His<br />
forgiveness for all of our wrong actions and that we<br />
will be forgiven. How awesome is that? We have a<br />
whole month to cleanse out our past year of slips and<br />
mistakes, and Allah (s.w.t.) is going to be cool with us!<br />
He really is Merciful. It is a shame that we cannot take<br />
those qualities into our own lives.<br />
We are told that one who knows himself knows his<br />
Lord. And when one begins to know himself and his<br />
Lord, in which we can refer to His 99 names, one begins<br />
to adopt those qualities in one’s life. For example, if a<br />
person begins to know himself and his/her stance, or<br />
“level of” generosity, introspection will allow the<br />
person to realize how beautiful a characteristic<br />
generosity is, as we see in the Grace of Allah (s.w.t.).<br />
Imam Ja’far as-Sadiq (a.s.) says in ‘Lantern of the<br />
Path’,<br />
“‘They should pardon and turn away. Do you<br />
not love that Allah should forgive you? And<br />
Allah is forgiving, merciful.’ (The Holy Qur’an,<br />
24:22) If you do not pardon another mortal like<br />
yourself, how can you hope for the pardon of<br />
the Compelling King?”<br />
Whether it is personal, family, or community,<br />
Shaikh Muslim Bhanji<br />
grudges hold us back from so much progress. Forgiving<br />
someone, and being able to reunite, is a fight against<br />
the ego. When we do not feel like, or are not willing to<br />
forgive someone, we are placing ourselves very high<br />
above. If Allah (s.w.t.) forgives His creations for their<br />
every mistake, how can we not forgive our own brother<br />
or sister for a mistake against us? Are we comparing,<br />
or placing, ourselves on the same level as Him? I will<br />
never forget our Sunday school shirt one year. On the<br />
back in bold letters it said, “God Gives and Forgives,<br />
Man Gets and Forgets.” It’s true, isn’t it? We forget<br />
who we really are sometimes, or think we’re something<br />
we are not.<br />
Of course it is a hard process, but doing good things<br />
always has to be forced. Naturally, it is hard for someone<br />
to let go of the pain they are feeling due to someone<br />
else’s slip, mistake, or misunderstanding. The reasons<br />
are many, but we all know it is the right thing to do. It is<br />
what will prepare us for bigger trials and tribulations.<br />
For if we lose our brothers and sisters over minute<br />
infractions, mishaps, and situations, we do not<br />
understand the true message that Ashura has left us.<br />
We need to be able to see the bigger picture. The<br />
stronger our ties are with our brothers and sisters, the<br />
stronger our communities and, Insha’Allah, our<br />
Ummah. If we continue to hold grudges, spite, and<br />
dislike for our own people, whatever the reason, it will<br />
take us a long, long time to get anywhere as a<br />
progressing Ummah which will spread and teach Islam<br />
around the world.<br />
Sometimes it is better to look at it in a different<br />
light. Instead of thinking “they hurt me so bad, how<br />
23
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
can I forgive them?”, we need to think of it in a manner<br />
as to why did the situation occur. This will then allow<br />
us to go back to the narration which states:<br />
“Ubayy ibn Ka’b said, ‘When you see a quality<br />
which you disapprove of in one of your brothers, then<br />
give it seventy interpretations and see if your heart<br />
can be at peace with one of them. If it is not, then<br />
blame yourself if you cannot excuse him. If you yourself<br />
have a quality which will easily make for seventy<br />
interpretations, then you should disapprove of yourself<br />
more than you do of him.’”<br />
(Excerpt from Lantern of the Path, “On Pardon”)<br />
Seventy excuses! Wow! Let us all think back to how<br />
Continued from page 8<br />
Al-Harwi reported a similar tradition which is recorded<br />
in Kanz al-Yawaqeet.<br />
Zad al-Ma’ad quotes a few scholars who believe in<br />
its perpetuity, indicating that some of them say that it<br />
is at the conclusion of the year; therefore, it has to be<br />
observed during all nights of the year so that one of<br />
them will be it. Others say that it is in Sha’ban and the<br />
month of Ramazan, while still others say that it is the<br />
night of the middle of Sha’ban.<br />
Others say that it is the beginning of the month of<br />
Ramazan, while others say it is the middle of it; yet<br />
others say it is the seventeenth. Still others say it is the<br />
twenty-ninth of it, while others say it is the last night of<br />
it, and most Sunnis of our time are of the view that it is<br />
the twenty-seventh. This proves that the reason why it<br />
was not determined exactly is due to the purpose of<br />
observing the entire month.<br />
On Lailatul-Qadr did the night journey (Israa) to<br />
Heavens take place, and the Almighty Allah raised<br />
Prophet Isa (a.s.) son of lady Maryam (a.s.). On this<br />
night, His servant and Prophet Moosa (a.s.) died, and<br />
so did Joshua son of Noon (a.s.), the wasi of Moosa<br />
(a.s.). Also on it was the Commander of the Faithful<br />
Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (a.s.) martyred.<br />
Relying on the authority of Abu Ja’far (a.s.) a few<br />
narrators of hadees have indicated that the Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.) had been asked once about Lailatul-Qadr. So<br />
often we have done so. My point being, that instead of<br />
crying “poor old me”, and thinking “why would my<br />
own brother/sister do this to me”, will create a thought<br />
process in which we begin to realize that everyone is<br />
human, everyone makes mistakes, and we are in this<br />
world to make it a better place, not to dislike each<br />
other. There really are bigger fish to fry!<br />
Insha’Allah in this blessed month, but not only in<br />
this month, we will take the time to sit back, look at<br />
ourselves, and also try our best to be patient and<br />
strong when it comes to our situations and scuffles.<br />
Forgiveness: one small step for you, one huge step<br />
for the Ummah – be the first.<br />
he (s.a.w.a.) ascended the pulpit and, having praised<br />
the Almighty, he (s.a.w.a.) said,<br />
“You have asked me about the Night of Destiny.<br />
I have not concealed the knowledge of it from<br />
you out of ignorance thereof. Be informed, O<br />
people, that whoever during the Month of Holy<br />
Ramazan is healthy, and he fasts during its days<br />
and performs Prayers during a portion of its<br />
nights and is punctual regarding the obligatory<br />
Prayers, and makes an effort to attend<br />
congregational Prayers on Fridays during it and<br />
attends the Eid Prayers as well, he will then<br />
have honored the Night of Destiny duty, and he<br />
will receive his reward from the Creator.”<br />
Do you need any more clues regarding the<br />
greatness of Lailatul-Qadr? Then let us tell you that the<br />
authors of Sawaab al-A’amaal and Behaar al-Anwaar<br />
have cited Imam Abu Abdullah al-Sadiq (as), the men<br />
whose truthfulness is not doubted even by the most<br />
skeptic scholar, saying that whoever recites Surah al-<br />
Ankabut and Surah al-Room during the 23rd night of<br />
the month of Ramazan will secure admission into<br />
Paradise without any exception.<br />
On p. 19, vol. 94, of Behaar al-Anwaar, the Imam (a.s.)<br />
is quoted adding, “I do not fear lest Allah should record<br />
that I have committed a sin for having said s; surely these<br />
two Chapters enjoy a great status with Allah.”<br />
(Excerpts from the book ‘Fast of the Month of Ramazan”)<br />
24
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
Mahe Ramazan : A Month Of Fasting Or<br />
Feasting?<br />
Mahe Ramazan is the ninth month in the Islamic<br />
calendar. During the whole month, faithful observers<br />
of Islam fast from sunrise (Sahour) to sunset (Iftar).<br />
During the fast, no food or drink is consumed, and<br />
thoughts must be kept pure. Followers of Islam believe<br />
that fasting helps the Muslim learn patience, modesty,<br />
and spirituality. Mahe Ramazan is not just about fasting<br />
but also about overcoming their temptation for food<br />
and all other wrong desires. Apart from physical health,<br />
Mahe Ramazan is more about your spiritual well being.<br />
During meal times in Mahe Ramadan, Muslim<br />
families will typically gather round to enjoy a rich<br />
spread. After all, there is no better way to mark the<br />
start or end of fasting than with your favorite savory<br />
foods. Or is there?<br />
When deciding what to eat during Mahe Ramadan,<br />
remember that Iftar and Suhoor help sustain your fast<br />
the following day, so consuming the right food is<br />
important.<br />
Consuming wrong kind of food, will only make you<br />
feel heavy and bloated and not provide you with the<br />
essential nutrients required during this period.<br />
Here is a list of foods that one can consume for the<br />
entire month, it is absolutely general and for healthy<br />
individuals.<br />
Sehri - Starter (As soon as you wakeup): One Glass<br />
of water is compulsory first thing as you wake up. One<br />
Fresh Fruit (Banana) or Handful of nuts (almonds/<br />
walnuts) /Dates<br />
Benefits: Antioxidants, Protein, Omega-3<br />
Sehri - Main Course: Eggs / Vegetables + Toast /<br />
Health Guide<br />
foodnutrihealth.blogspot.in<br />
whole wheat bread or Rice flakes / Oats Porridge or<br />
Dosa / Veg or plain Paratha/pancakes + Curd / Plain<br />
Milk / Milkshake / mixed sprouts<br />
Benefits: Proteins, Fibre, probiotics<br />
lftaar - Starter: Dates + Fresh Fruits or fruit yoghurt<br />
(homemade) + Buttermilk/lemon water/Fresh coconut<br />
water/Fresh fruit juice(homemade)<br />
Benefits: Iron, Vitamin C, probiotics, potassium<br />
lftaar - Main Course: Chicken / Fish / Lean Meat /<br />
Cooked Vegetables (any) with cottage cheese / Whole<br />
wheat bread / Rice / Veg Pulao + Pulses (dal) /beans +<br />
Vegetable or sprout salad with curds /buttermilk<br />
Benefits: Proteins, Fibre, Iron, Omega-3<br />
Later Post Prayers: Fruit custard / Pudding or<br />
Milkshake / Sweet Lassi / Curd<br />
Total Water Intake: At least 2-2.5 Litres between<br />
Iftaar & Sehri<br />
Benefits: Add Electrolytes if dehydrated.<br />
This Balanced meal plan will help maintain your<br />
energy levels and also provide you with the necessary<br />
calories, proteins, fats, vitamins & minerals required.<br />
Things to be kept in Mind this Mahe Ramazan:<br />
r Do not over consume or in excess anything.<br />
r Avoid oily, fried items.<br />
r Avoid outside food or any Junk food in suhoor,<br />
iftaar or anytime during Ramadan. Consume<br />
homemade food.<br />
r Increase your Water intake, and if dehydrated<br />
add electrolytes to it.<br />
r Restrict consuming carbonated beverages,<br />
sodas, colas or any sugary drink during Ramadan.<br />
r Restrict packed and processed food items as it<br />
25
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
Taaqibaat<br />
Merits of the Surahs of the Holy Quran<br />
Surah Mulk<br />
1. Ibne Baabwayh has related through his own<br />
authorities from Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) that he<br />
said: Whoever recites Surah Mulk before sleeping<br />
would remain in Almighty Allah’s protection and<br />
safety till morning; and the reciter of Surah Mulk<br />
is in Almighty Allah’s protection uptil the Day of<br />
Judgment till Almighty Allah the Glorious makes<br />
him enter Paradise.<br />
2. Muhammad bin Yaqub has written through his<br />
own authorities the tradition that Imam<br />
Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) said: Whoever recites<br />
Surah Mulk this Surah provides him protection<br />
from the chastisement of grave. This is written in<br />
Taurait. Whoever recites Surah Mulk in the night<br />
would achieve much of what he seeks and he<br />
would not be included among careless persons<br />
during that night. Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.)<br />
says: My father Imam Zainul Abedeen (a.s.) used<br />
to recite Surah Mulk in the day as well as in the<br />
night. And whoever recites Surah Mulk and dies<br />
and Angels Munkar and Nakeer enter his grave<br />
and stand towards his feet the feet say to them:<br />
You two have nothing to do here because this<br />
man gets up and sits with our help and used to<br />
recite Surah Mulk in the day as well as in the<br />
night. When Munkar and Nakeer turn towards<br />
his stomach it says to them: What have you to do<br />
here? This man always fed me by reciting Surah<br />
Mulk day and night When Munkar and Nakeer<br />
turn to his tongue it says: I have nothing for you<br />
because this man used to recite Surah Mulk day<br />
and night with me (i.e. with the tongue).<br />
3. In the book “Khawaassul Quran” it is said that<br />
the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said: Whoever recites<br />
Surah Mulk becomes protected against<br />
chastisement of the grave. There is another<br />
tradition from the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) that<br />
for the reciter of Surah Mulk there is reward like<br />
the man who spends the whole of the night<br />
preceding Eid-ul-Fitr in worshipping. And<br />
whoever memorizes Surah Mulk, the Surah<br />
becomes his companion and consoler in the<br />
grave and wards off every chastisement that is to<br />
be given to him in the grave, and saves him from<br />
all these hardships upto the Day of Judgment, it<br />
intercedes for him before Almighty Allah and<br />
remains near him till it sees him enter Paradise in<br />
peace and safety, and the man enters Paradise<br />
remaining safe from the desolateness and<br />
loneliness of the grave.<br />
4. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said: If someone<br />
memorizes Surah Mulk then Surah Mulk would<br />
be his companion and consoler in the grave and<br />
would intercede for him before Almighty Allah till<br />
it would take him to Paradise with peace and<br />
safety. And if one recites Surah Mulk and presents<br />
its reward to his brothers-in-faith it reaches them<br />
with the fastness of lightning, consoles them and<br />
serves as the cause for diminution of chastisement<br />
in the grave.<br />
5. Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) said: If Surah Mulk is<br />
26
ecited on a dead body Almighty Allah would<br />
allow comfort and ease for that dead person and<br />
remove his hardship. If Surah Mulk is recited and<br />
presented to a dead person it would reach him<br />
with the fastness of lightning.<br />
Surah Qalam<br />
1. Ibne Baabwayh has written through his own<br />
authorities that Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) said:<br />
Whoever recites Surah Qalam in his obligatory or<br />
supererogatory Namaz Almighty Allah would<br />
ever keep him safe and protected from destitution<br />
and poverty, and when that man dies Almighty<br />
Allah would grant him exemption from<br />
chastisement.<br />
2. In the book “Khawaassul Quran” it is said that<br />
the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said: Whoever recites<br />
Surah Qalam Almighty Allah would give him<br />
reward like those persons whose good wishes<br />
are likeable in His view. And if Surah Qalam is<br />
written and hung in the neck of a person who<br />
might be having pain in his teeth because of<br />
some injury, by Command of Almighty Allah his<br />
pain would disappear instantly.<br />
3. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said: If one writes<br />
Surah Qalam and hangs it in the neck of a person<br />
who has pain in his teeth, by Command of<br />
Almighty Allah, the pain would instantly subside.<br />
4. This tradition is also related from Imam Ja’far<br />
Sadiq (a.s.) namely that: If someone has pain in<br />
the teeth and Surah Qalam is written and hung in<br />
his neck, then by Command of Almighty Allah he<br />
would become comfortable.<br />
Surah Haaqqah<br />
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
authorities that Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) said:<br />
Recite Surah Haaqqah very often because<br />
recitation of Surah Haaqqah in obligatory and<br />
supererogatory Namaz is the sign of belief in<br />
Almighty Allah and belief in the Holy Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.), and this Surah came down about<br />
Imam Ali (a.s.) and Muawiya, and the religion of<br />
its reciter would not remain doubtful and<br />
uncertain till he meets Almighty Allah.<br />
2. It is said in the book “Khawaassul Quran” that<br />
the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) said: Whoever recites<br />
Surah Haaqqah Almighty Allah would shorten his<br />
Reckoning on the Day of Judgment. And if Surah<br />
Haaqqah is written and put in the neck of a<br />
pregnant woman, then whatever is in her womb<br />
would remain in protection (i.e. the child would<br />
remain safe). And if Surah Haaqqah is written<br />
and washed with water and that water is made<br />
to be drunk by a child at the time of his weaning,<br />
that child would become very intelligent and he<br />
would be able to memorise every word and<br />
everything (some people take it to mean that the<br />
child would become a memoriser of the Holy<br />
Quran).<br />
3. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) also spoke out the<br />
same tradition with the addition that: Whatever<br />
that child would hear he would keep it in memory<br />
and would not forget it.<br />
4. Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) said: When Surah<br />
Haaqqah is written and hung in the neck of a<br />
pregnant woman the child in her womb would<br />
remain quite safe, by Command of Almighty<br />
Allah, and when the child is born then by<br />
Command of Almighty Allah its growth would be<br />
on the soundest lines.<br />
1. Ibne Baabwayh has written through his own<br />
{<br />
The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) informed: …Allah ordained that after me, till Judgment Day,<br />
caliphate should remain in my Ahle Bait. So anyone who disbelieves in my words has disbelieved<br />
in Allah.<br />
(Hayaat al-Quloob, vol. 2, chap. 9)<br />
27
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
Snippets<br />
Hazrat Faatemah Zahra (s.a.) and Shab-e-Qadr<br />
The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) informs that in<br />
the world of souls, under the Arsh (Throne), Hazrat<br />
Faatemah Zahra (s.a.)’s nourishment was praising and<br />
glorifying Allah, which is commonly referred to as the<br />
Tasbeeh of Faatemah Zahra (s.a.) and hence, the<br />
nomenclature ‘heavenly tasbeeh’.<br />
The light of Hazrat Zahra (s.a.) was preserved in<br />
the treasures of Arsh; her food was praising and<br />
glorifying Allah. Likewise in this world, she would be so<br />
engrossed in worship in the payer-niche that her feet<br />
would become swollen.<br />
There was none in this nation who would<br />
worship more than Faatemah (s.a.). She would<br />
stand and worship so much that her feet would<br />
swell.<br />
(Al-Manaaqeb of Ibne Shahr Aashoob vol 3 p. 389)<br />
Her worship in this world points towards the fact<br />
that she continued to praise and glorify Allah in the<br />
same vein as she did in the world of souls.<br />
Imam Sadiq (a.s.) informs,<br />
The one who is fortunate to gain the real<br />
recognition of Hazrat Faatemah Zahra (s.a.)<br />
then he has discovered (the real) Night of<br />
Destiny (Shab-e-Qadr).<br />
(Behaar al-Anwaar vol 43 p. 66; Tafseer al-Furaat p. 581)<br />
The Noor (light) of Lady Fatema Zahra (s.a.)<br />
overcomes the new moon of month of Ramazan<br />
From the book “Fazail of Shahr-Ramazan of Shaikh<br />
Sadooq”<br />
Imam Raza (a.s.) said (part of a lengthy narration):<br />
“When the new moon of the month of<br />
Ramadhan would come up, the noor (light) of<br />
Fatema Zahra (s.a.) would over come the new<br />
moon and the moon would be hidden and<br />
when she (s.a.) would go then the moon would<br />
become visible.”<br />
[Behaar al-Anwaar, Vol. 43. p. 57]<br />
Necessity of Tabarra against Enemies of<br />
Ameerul Momineen (a.s.) whoever they may<br />
be<br />
One hears the strangest of objections when it<br />
comes to Tabarra against the enemies of Ameerul<br />
Momineen (a.s.). One group claims that we should<br />
avoid Tabarra because the enemies of Ameerul<br />
Momineen (a.s.) are revered by some sections of the<br />
Muslim community. These Muslims are likely to get<br />
offended by Tabarra. So for the sake of these Muslims<br />
and the broader demands of ‘Muslim Unity’, we must<br />
avoid Tabarra against enemies of Ameerul Momineen<br />
(a.s.) and on the contrary, we should respect them<br />
because they are revered by their followers!<br />
Reply<br />
To the proponents of this suggestion, we have only<br />
question:<br />
Are these Muslims willing to forgive and forget<br />
when it comes to their own opponents and enemies?<br />
Why do they hunt down their own enemies,<br />
imprison them and even kill them?<br />
Are they bigger than Ameerul Momineen (a.s.),<br />
whose enemies must be loved while their own enemies<br />
must be killed?<br />
Let us turn to an incident involving Imam<br />
Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) which highlights the<br />
28
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
importance of Tabarra, making it obligatory for all<br />
lovers of Ameerul Momineen (a.s.).<br />
Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) on Tabarra<br />
‘…then Imam Baqir (a.s.) told him: (O servant<br />
of Allah), how excessive is the oppression of<br />
this nation against Ali b. Abi Talib (a.s.) and<br />
how little is their justice towards him (a.s.)!<br />
They deprived him (Ali (a.s.)) of virtues (instead)<br />
granting it to the companions, although Ali<br />
(a.s.) was the best of them. Then, how can they<br />
keep Ali (a.s.) away from this position that they<br />
have bestowed on others?<br />
He (a.s.) was asked: How was that, O son of Allah’s<br />
Prophet (s.a.w.a.)?<br />
Imam Baqir (a.s.) said: You accept the mastership<br />
of the lovers of Abu Bakr b. Abi Quhaafa and do Tabarra<br />
against his enemies, whoever they may be.<br />
Likewise, you accept the mastership of Umar b.<br />
Khattaab and do Tabarra against his enemies, whoever<br />
they may be.<br />
Also, you accept the mastership of Usman b. Affaan<br />
and do Tabarra against his enemies, whoever they may<br />
be.<br />
Until the matter reaches Ali b. AbiTalib (a.s.) when<br />
they say – you have Wilayat of his friends but don’t do<br />
Tabarra against his enemies, rather (you claim) we love<br />
them!<br />
And how is it permitted for them to claim thus<br />
when the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) has said regarding Ali<br />
(a.s.) – ‘O Allah love him who loves Ali (a.s.) and take as<br />
an enemy who takes Ali as an enemy and help him<br />
who helps him and abandon him who abandons him.’<br />
Then do you see them – they do not take as enemy<br />
the enemy of Ali (a.s.), nor they abandon them (those<br />
who have abandoned Ali a.s.)?<br />
This is not justice!<br />
Another (injustice) is that when the virtues, with<br />
which Allah has distinguished Ali (a.s.) with the prayers<br />
of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and his nobility near Allah the<br />
Almighty, are mentioned they deny it. But whatever is<br />
mentioned for the companions of the Prophet<br />
(s.a.w.a.), they accept it. What is it that has made them<br />
reject it for Ali (a.s.) and attribute it to the other<br />
companions of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)?<br />
(Tafseer Imam Hasan Askari (a.s.), p. 562; Al-Ehtejaaj, vol. 2, p. 330;<br />
Behaar al-Anwaar, vol. 21 p. 239 narrating from Tafseer al-Ayyaashi<br />
under the verse of Surah Taubah (9): Verse 118)<br />
It is evident from this and many other reports that<br />
Muslims do not have any way out but to do Tabarra<br />
against the enemies of Ameerul Momineen (a.s.),<br />
regardless of the status and respect of the enemies. If<br />
these enemies include the companions and wives and<br />
are revered by certain sections of Muslims so be it.<br />
Doesn’t Allah order in the Holy Quran<br />
‘It is not (fit) for the Prophet and those who<br />
believe that they should ask forgiveness for<br />
the polytheists, even though they should be<br />
near relatives, after it has become clear to<br />
them that they are inmates of the flaming<br />
fire…. but when it became clear to him that<br />
he was an enemy of Allah, he declared himself<br />
to be clear of him…’<br />
(Surah Taubah (9): Verses 113 and 114)<br />
If even one’s nearest relatives are not to be spared,<br />
where is the question of respecting the enemies of Ali<br />
b. Abi Talib (a.s.) or as outrageously suggested to even<br />
love them?<br />
Continued from page 25<br />
r<br />
r<br />
r<br />
r<br />
contains more sodium, which will trigger more<br />
thirst.<br />
Don’t drink large amounts of water at iftaar time.<br />
Take sips at iftaar then a glass of water after<br />
every 1-2 hours gap.<br />
Consume more of whole carbohydrates like<br />
whole cereals, good quality protein like chicken,<br />
fish, eggs or pulse & cereal combination and<br />
whole vegetables and fruits for fibre, vitamins<br />
and minerals.<br />
Avoid Exercising immediately after iftaar. Exercise<br />
after 2 hours of eating.<br />
Remember Fasting is about controlling your<br />
temptations.<br />
29
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
Your Questions Answered<br />
Answers by Allama Sayyed Mohammad Moosawi Saheb<br />
Q. What if a person were to travel three or four<br />
times a week during the year, not because his<br />
job demands travelling, but for other purposes<br />
like sight-seeing and tourism or for treating a<br />
patient, visiting the shrines of the Imams (a.s.),<br />
etc. What is the ruling on his prayers?<br />
A. He should perform complete prayers and<br />
observe the fasts, since given his situation he is<br />
considered a frequent traveller according to<br />
convention. If he were to travel twice a week<br />
and stay five days in his hometown [then it is<br />
obligatory for him to offer both the short (qasr)<br />
and the complete (prayers); and, in the month<br />
of Ramazan, to combine observance of the fasts<br />
in it (Ramazan) and their qaza after it].<br />
Q. Can one swim during the fasting of month of<br />
Ramazan wearing a plastic cap?<br />
A. Yes. Fasting will not be invalidated.<br />
Q. Can a Muslim forgo fasting in the month of<br />
Ramazan if the nature of work entails<br />
hardship?<br />
A. The Muslim who cannot work if he observes<br />
fasting should abstain from working. He may<br />
take a loan, if need arises, but he is not<br />
permitted to forego fasting in the month of<br />
Ramazan.<br />
Q. I cannot concentrate in my studies if I were to<br />
fast in the month of Ramazan. My final exams<br />
are near. Can I keep Qaza for the Ramazan<br />
fasts later on?<br />
A. The fasts of the month of Ramazan are wajib<br />
(obligatory) and the reason you have mentioned<br />
cannot justify your not fasting. Your fears are<br />
baseless. If you obey Allah Ta’ala, He will help<br />
you in your studies.<br />
Q. What should a person do who had deliberately<br />
not kept fast for 3 months of Ramazan?<br />
A. The person will have to give Kaffara (expiation)<br />
for every day of the month of Ramazan fasting<br />
which he has deliberately not observed. The<br />
expiation for one day is either to set free a<br />
slave, feed sixty poor people or fast for 60 days,<br />
of which 31 days must be fasted consecutively.<br />
The person will also have to keep one day’s fast<br />
as Qaza for each day of the Ramazan fast.<br />
As a precaution, the Qaza of the fasting of<br />
Ramazan should not be delayed upto the next<br />
Ramazan. If one has to fast the Qaza for two or<br />
more complete Ramazan, a fidyah (ransom) will<br />
be incumbent on him for each day of the<br />
Ramazan month of the year or years before the<br />
last Ramazan. The fidyah is three quarters of a<br />
kilogram of food or a kilogram & a half for each<br />
day.<br />
Q. Is it Wajib (obligatory) for a person, to pay for<br />
the Kaffara of the fasting before embarking for<br />
the Hajj?<br />
A. If the person has sincere intentions of keeping<br />
fasts as Kaffara for the Ramazan & other fasting,<br />
he can proceed for Hajj. But if he has intention<br />
of feeding the poor as Kaffara, it will be Wajib<br />
(obligatory) for him to fulfill the Kaffara first,<br />
which is similar to a debt on the person, before<br />
embarking for the Hajj.<br />
Q. A person can either give Kaffara or go for Hajj.<br />
Can he proceed for Hajj if the time for Hajj (i.e.<br />
30
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
from Shawwal onward) has neared, without<br />
paying the Kaffara?<br />
A. The person should pay the Kaffara, irrespective<br />
of the fact that the months for the Hajj rites<br />
have arrived. It will not be proper to proceed<br />
for Hajj without giving the Kaffara.<br />
Q. Which is the time for performing Umra-e-<br />
Mufrada? I am told that if we perform after<br />
the 1st of Shawwal then Hajj is Wajib<br />
(obligatory) for that year. Please clarify this.<br />
A. If you have already performed Hajj, then it will<br />
not be Wajib (obligatory) again on you to<br />
perform Hajj. But if you have never performed<br />
Hajj, and you performed Umrah in Shawwal,<br />
then this means that you can perform Hajj also.<br />
This makes Hajj Wajib (obligatory) on those<br />
who did not perform Hajj before.<br />
Q. A lady wishes to know that while performing<br />
Namaz, is it permissible to prostrate<br />
immediately after Ruku’ without standing up?<br />
A. If one deliberately goes into Sajdah after Ruku’<br />
without standing up, the Namaz will be void. If<br />
it is done unintentionally, it will not affect the<br />
Namaz.<br />
Q. If a Muslim who is fasting on the 30th of<br />
Ramzan comes to know that today is Eid after<br />
Zohr, what should he do?<br />
A. As soon as he comes to know about Eid whether<br />
before Zohr or even before Maghrib, he should<br />
immediately break his fast. The time of Namaze-Eid<br />
is from sunrise up to noon-time. Eid<br />
Namaz cannot be prayed after Zohr. If he comes<br />
to know after Zohr, there is no Namaz-e-Eid for<br />
him. Moreover it is not Wajib (obligatory) in the<br />
Ghaybat of Imam-e-Zaman (a.t.f.s.). Performing<br />
Namaz-e-Eid on the next day is haraam. It is like<br />
praying Namaz-e-Jumah on Saturday.<br />
Q. A person doing taqlid of a Marja who expires<br />
faces a new problem. Can he do taqlid of a live<br />
Marja completely or in that which concerns<br />
new problems?<br />
A. The person has to do taqlid of the Marja who is<br />
alive, concerning new problem.<br />
Q. What is the fate of non-Muslims in aakherat<br />
[hereafter] who love Imam Husain (a.s.)?<br />
A. The primary requirement is to believe in<br />
‘wahdaniyat’ (Unity) of Allah and to accept<br />
Prophet Mohammad (s.a.w.a.) as Allah’s<br />
prophet. Of course Allah is just and any good<br />
done by any one will be compensated by him<br />
either in this world or in the hereafter. May be<br />
he is compensated in this world for his good<br />
action.<br />
Q. Will it amount to backbiting if I discuss the<br />
behaviour of my brother with other members<br />
of the family?<br />
A. Gheebat is that which is disliked by the person<br />
who is being discussed. As long as it does not<br />
amount to “Gheebat”, the discussion will be<br />
permissible.<br />
Continued from page 33<br />
recommended to have a breakfast of dates. Zakat-e-<br />
Fitrah should be paid before Namaz-e-Eid.<br />
The important historical days of this month are:<br />
1. Idd-ul-Fitr, Pisar Saad died<br />
8. Holy Shrines in Jannat-ul-Baqi destroyed by Ibne<br />
Saud in 1343 A.H. (1925 A.D.)<br />
10. Ghaibat (occultation) of Imam Saheb-uz-Zaman<br />
began 328 A.H. (939 A.D.)<br />
15. Martyrdom of Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s.) 148 A.H.<br />
(765 A.D.) (Mafatih, Behar)<br />
- Wafat of Hazrat Abu Talib (a.s.) at the age of 80<br />
years 10 Be’sat (According to Al-Yaqubi, Tarikh-e-<br />
Khamis & Kasir-e-Tawarikh)<br />
20. Imam Musa Kazim (a.s.) was imprisoned by<br />
Khalifa Harun al-Rashid. (Al-Kafi)<br />
25. Martyrdom of Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s.) 148 A.H.<br />
(765 A.D.) (Al-Mizan, Saazmane Tabligha-e-Islami<br />
and Allama Jawadi)<br />
31
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
To Allah (s.w.t.) belong all months<br />
Mahe Ramazan<br />
The month of Ramazan is the most august of all<br />
months and is very dear to Allah (s.w.t.). The importance<br />
of this month can be gauged with the fact that this is<br />
the only month which has been mentioned in the Holy<br />
Qur’an with its name.<br />
In Surah al-Baqarah, Allah (s.w.t.) says,<br />
“The month of Ramazan is that in which the<br />
Qur’an was revealed...”.<br />
(2:185)<br />
The examplary virtues of this month can’t be<br />
counted. The obedient servants of Almighty Allah<br />
eagerly look forward to its commencement. Do not let<br />
its nights go waste in slumbers its days in careless<br />
omission or loss of remembrance of Allah.<br />
Fasting throughout the month has been made<br />
obligatory. The sawab (reward) of fasting is in the<br />
treasures of Allah (s.w.t.), it is a zakat of the body,<br />
protection against hell and Satan and cause for the<br />
achievement of paradise. There are supplications to be<br />
recited at all times and those on particular days and<br />
nights. Pledging to discard all sinful activities, giving<br />
charities to poor Mo’menin recitation of Durood a<br />
great deal every day and reading the complete Qur’an<br />
are some of the highly recommended activities in this<br />
month.<br />
Common Aamaal (supplications)<br />
of Shab-e-Qadr<br />
As either the 19th or the 21st or the 23rd night of<br />
this month is the ‘Laylatul Qadr’, there are aamaal<br />
which should be done during all the said nights. It is<br />
sunnat (desirable) to have bath on all the three nights.<br />
On Shab-e-Qadr one should perform two Rak’at<br />
namaz in each rakat after the recitation of Surah al-<br />
Hamd, recite Surah Ahad 7 times and after finishing<br />
the namaz to recite 70 times ‘ASTAGHFERULLAAHAA WA<br />
ATOOBO ELAIHE.’<br />
Then to open Qur’an and place it before you and<br />
say: ‘ALLAAHUMMA INNEE ASALOKA BE KETAABEKAL MUNZAL<br />
WA MAA FEEHE WA FEEHIS MOKAL AKBAR WA ASMAAOKAL<br />
HUSNAA WA MAA YOKHAAFO WA YURJAA AN TAJ-A’LANEE MIN<br />
O’TAQA’AEKA MENAN NAAR. WA TAQZEYA HAWAAEJI LID-DUNYA<br />
WAL AAKHERAH.’ (Then invoke Allah to fulfill your<br />
legitimate desires).<br />
Afterwards keep the Holy Qur’an on your head and<br />
say : ‘ALLAAHUMMA BE HAQQE HAAZAL QUR’AN WA BE HAQQE<br />
MAN ARSALTAHU BEHI WA BE HAQQE KULLE MOAMENIN<br />
MADAHTAHU FEEHE WA BE HAQQEKA A’LAYHIM FALAA AHADA<br />
AA’ARAFO BE HAQQEQA MINKA.’<br />
Then say each of the following ten times : BEKA YAA-<br />
ALLAAH, BE MOHAMMAD, BE ALI, BE FAATEMAH, BIL HASAN, BIL<br />
HUSAIN, BE ALI-IBNE-HUSAIN, BE MOHAMMAD-IBNE-ALI, BE<br />
JA’FAR-IBNE MOHAMMAD, BE MOOSAA-IBNE JA’FAR, BE ALI-<br />
IBNE-MOOSAA, BE MOHAMMAD-IBNE ALI, BE ALI-IBNE-<br />
MOHAMMAD, BIL-HASAN-IBNE-ALI, BIL-HUJJATE ALAIHIS<br />
SALAAM. (Then invoke Allah to fulfill your legitimate<br />
desires).<br />
Reciting Ziarat of Imam Husain (a.s.) on all the<br />
three nights is Sunnat-e-Mowakkeda (highly desirable).<br />
It is also highly desirable to remain awake and pray<br />
dua’s and salaats in these nights. One should beseech<br />
Allah (s.w.t.) for mercy and forgiveness for one’s<br />
ownself, parents, relatives, living and dead sisters and<br />
brothers-in-faith.<br />
Once someone asked the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)<br />
32
July 2015 • JAFARI OBSERVER<br />
what to ask from Allah (s.w.t.) in the ‘night of Qadr’ if<br />
he got a chance. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) advised<br />
him to beseech Almighty Allah for his deliverance (on<br />
the day of Judgement).<br />
Pray 100 raka’t namaaz like Fajr Namaz in two<br />
Raka’ts. In each rakat, after surah al-Hamd to recite<br />
Surah Ahad and after each two rak’ats to say salaam. If<br />
one’s prayers are in pending (Qaza) it is better to<br />
perform those during these nights.<br />
Aamaal of the night of 19th Ramazan<br />
In addition to above-mentioned common Aamaal<br />
one should also perform the following:<br />
1) To recite 100 times, ‘Astaghferullaha wa atoobo<br />
elaihe.’<br />
2) To recite 100 times: ‘Allaahummal an qatalata<br />
Ameeril Mo’menin.’<br />
Recitation of Surah Ankaboot, Dukhaan and Room<br />
and 100 times surah Qadr, Dua-e-Jawshan-e-Kabir and<br />
Dua-e-Maqaaremul Akhlaaq from Sahife-Kaamelah<br />
have also been highly recommended on the night of<br />
23rd.<br />
For some of the most beneficial Dua’s and<br />
recommended prayers, kindly refer to ‘Mafaatihul<br />
Jinaan.’<br />
The important historical days of this month<br />
are:<br />
1. Khalifa Mamun-al-Rashid appointed Imam Ali<br />
Reza (a.s.) his crown prince. 201 A.H. (Taqwimul-<br />
Mohsenin & Maulana Najmul Hasan)<br />
10. The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) conquered Mecca 8<br />
A.H. (Tarikh-e-Khamis, Vol. 2, p. 92)<br />
- Death of Ummul Mo’menin Sayyeda Khadija (the<br />
first wife of Holy Prophet s.a.w. & the first lady in<br />
Islam) at the age of 65 years (10 Be’sat) The year<br />
was declared by Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) as<br />
Aammul Huzn.<br />
15. Birth of Imam Hasan (a.s.) 3 A.H. (11-3-625 A.D.)<br />
(Unanimous)<br />
17. Battle of Badr was conquered.<br />
19. Imam Ali (a.s.) wounded in the mosque at Kufa,<br />
40 A.H.<br />
20. Mecca was conquered.<br />
21. Martyrdom of Imam Ali (a.s.) 40 A.H. (28-1-661<br />
A.D.) (Unanimous)<br />
23. Shab-e-Qadr, The Holy Qur’an was revealed.<br />
Shawwal<br />
The night preceding Eid is of great sanctity and<br />
profound virtues, and should be spend in prayers; dua,<br />
seeking forgiveness and in wakefulness. Taking ghusl<br />
(bath) at sunset is also recommended.<br />
The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) said :<br />
“One who offers six raka’t prayer on this night<br />
reciting in each raka’t surah al-Hamd and<br />
Surah Tawhid five times, Allah (s.w.t.) will<br />
pardon his sins.”<br />
Recite the following Takbeeraat at the end of<br />
Maghrib and Isha prayers and also on Eid day after Fajr<br />
and Eid prayers :<br />
‘ALLAHO AKBAR ALLAHO AKBAR LAA ELAAHAA<br />
ILLALLAAHO WALLAAHO AKBAR WA LILLAAHIL HAMD<br />
ALHAMDO LILLAAHE A’LAA MAA HADAANAA WA<br />
LAHUSH SHUKRO A’LAA MAA AWLAANAA.’<br />
After maghrib prayers and its ‘Naafelah’ raise your<br />
hands towards sky and say :<br />
‘YA ZAL MANNE WAT TAWLE YA ZAL JUDE YA<br />
MUSTAFEYA MOHAMMADIN WA NAASERAHU SALLE<br />
A’LAA MOHAMMADIN WA AALE MOHAMMADIN WAGH-<br />
FIR LEE KULLA ZANBIN AHSAYTAHU WA HOWA INDAKA<br />
FEE KITAABIN MUBEEN.’<br />
Then prostrate and say 100 times in Sajdah,<br />
‘Atoobo Elallaah.’<br />
Then invoke Allah (s.w.t.) to fulfil your legitimate<br />
desires.<br />
Eid day : Ghusl on Eid day is sunnat. Fasting on this<br />
day is haraam. Before offering Eid Namaz it is<br />
Continued on page 31<br />
33
JAFARI OBSERVER • July 2015<br />
News – Happenings<br />
Ayatollah Hajj Sheikh Mehdi Asefi Passed<br />
Away<br />
Ahlul Bayt News Agency - “Ayatollah Hajj Sheikh<br />
Mehdi Asefi”, a member of the Supreme Council of the<br />
Ahlulbayt (a.s.) World Assembly and a representative<br />
of Iran’s supreme leader in Iraq, died today on age 78<br />
after suffering various diseases.<br />
The statement of his office is as follows:<br />
“It is with great sadness that we announce the<br />
death of longtime companion of Ayatollah Khomeini<br />
and representative of Iran’s supreme leader in Iraq,<br />
Ayatollah Hajj Sheikh Mehdi Asefi, to the Iranian<br />
nation, especially the scholars and seminaries of the<br />
Islamic world.”<br />
His funeral ceremony will be held tomorrow (June<br />
5, 2015) in Qom and after that his body will be<br />
transferred to Najaf for burial.<br />
Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi: People should not<br />
be divided over nuclear talks, parliamentary<br />
elections<br />
Senior cleric Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi<br />
said on Wednesday that discord is a fatal poison and<br />
advised people to be watchful that the ongoing nuclear<br />
talks or even parliamentary elections would divide<br />
them.<br />
Addressing a group of clerics in Qom, he said<br />
discord under such sensitive circumstances will be<br />
regarded as a fatal poison in dealing with avarice<br />
polices of the enemies who wish to collapse nuclear<br />
deal between Iran and the west.<br />
Our enemies bring many new excuses even after<br />
clinching the final nuclear deal, he said and expressed<br />
the hope that the Iranian nation to take advantage of<br />
holy month of Ramadan to purify themselves.<br />
‘We are in dire need of unity more than ever,’ he<br />
said adding that it will be naive to assume that after<br />
final agreement in nuclear talks the avarice and<br />
bullying western states to leave us alone as they will<br />
put the issue of human rights on the table.<br />
‘As long as Iran has not given in and has not<br />
recognized the Zionist regime, the enemies will never<br />
leave us alone,’ he warned.<br />
The enemies never lets a powerful and independent<br />
Iran stand against them in the Middle East region as<br />
our independency and government bother them, he<br />
said.<br />
The Americans have recently advised the Iraqi<br />
government not to allow Jihadi people to take part in<br />
the war on ISIL in a bid to prepare grounds for the<br />
defeat of Iraqi army and disintegration of the country,<br />
Ayatollah Makarem said.<br />
{<br />
Ibn Abbas said: I asked the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) about the words by which Adam’s prayers were<br />
accepted when he repented.<br />
The Prophet (s.a.w.a.) replied: Adam (a.s.) asked Allah to accept his repentance by the<br />
rightfulness of Muhammad, Ali, Fatima, Hasan and Husain!<br />
(Al-Khesaal, chap. 5, trad. 8)<br />
34