Islam: Questions And Answers - Calling non-Muslims to Islam

Islam: Questions And Answers Volume 20 Calling non-Muslims to Islam

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Islam: Questions And Answers Volume 20 Calling non-Muslims to Islam

Muhammad Saed Abdul-Rahman B.Sc., DipHE

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© Muhammad Saed Abdul-Rahman, 2003 ISBN for all volumes 1 86179 080 5 ISBN for volume 20 paperback 1 86179 351 0 ISBN for volume 20 hardback 1 86179 352 9 ISBN for volume 20 pdf eBook 1 86179 353 7 ISBN for volume 20 Microsoft eBook 1 86179 354 5 ISBN for volume 20 Palm eBook 1 86179 355 3 All Rights reserved

British Library Cataloguing in Publication Data. A Catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library

Designed, Typeset and produced by: MSA Publication Limited, 4 Bello Close, Herne Hill, London SE24 9BW United Kingdom

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Contents Introduction .............................................................................. 1 Chapter 1................................................................................... 3 38161: A Christian is asking what is written on the gate of Paradise?........................................................ 3 13253: Married to a Christian woman – what should he do next?........................................................... 8 43483: Obstacles to a Christian woman marrying a Muslim man................................................................ 13 48981: Is giving zakaah to those whose hearts are to be opened to Islam a kind of bribe? .......................... 21 27302: A Muslim whose kaafir family are threatening to hang him because of his being Muslim ................................................................ 22 41006: A Christian asking about repentance ................. 24 43148: The Muslims’ beliefs concerning the Messiah ‘Eesa ibn Maryam ........................................... 31 43164: Praying for kaafirs to be guided ........................ 39 36803: How should he offer advice to a non-mahram woman? .................................................... 44 13986: Good deeds done before saying Shahaadah are not valid ................................................ 45 27196: She became Muslim but her family did not; should she honour her family even though they mistreat her? .............................................. 51 27105: What is the ruling on living with a kaafir mother? ............................................................... 54 27107: She is married to a Muslim and hijab is putting her off Islam ......................................... 57 20959: Should he sit with his colleagues at work when they are drinking alcohol? ...................... 62 20267: A new Muslim wants to learn the religion ........ 66 Chapter 2................................................................................. 69 20920: Her boyfriend has become a Muslim and is making her choose between Islam and splitting up ....... 69 v

11865: How many times should he call a non-Muslim to Islam? ................................................... 71 20849: He married a second wife and they became Muslim – what should he do with his first wife? .......... 73 22852: Should he advise those who frequent pornographic websites? ................................................. 78 20815: A Christian wants to become Muslim and is asking about the prayer ....................................... 79 37653: A Christian woman wants to fast ...................... 82 9232: She wants to become Muslim and she is asking about the etiquette of entering the mosque ........ 84 6581: Christian lady interested in Islam ........................ 91 9020: Accusing the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) of being mentally ill ................ 94 6401: His mother doesn’t practise Islam ....................... 96 7182: References (video and audio tapes and books) for non-Muslims ................................................ 99 2584: Relations with women according to Islam ........ 101 10001: The status of the family in Islam ..................... 105 14418: How to call a Christian to Islam ...................... 109 10469: Questions from a confused Christian .............. 111 31796: She wants to become Muslim but her mother and grandmother are opposed to the idea ....... 118 12734: How can she tell her non-Muslim mother that her husband is going to take a second wife? ........ 123 13810: A Christian woman asks about the Prophet’s birthday and what it means to the Muslims ................ 124 13521: Should he tell a non-Muslim all the details of Islam? .......................................................... 127 26885: A Sikh girl wants to marry a Muslim man ...... 131 26758: He wants to become Muslim in order to marry a Muslim woman .............................................. 134 20239: A Catholic man wants to marry a Muslim woman and is thinking about Islam ............................ 136 14246: Become Muslim first, then do not worry about your past ............................................................ 139 14070: He has been asked to research about Islam vi

and its impact on Europe ............................................. 142 13747: Dating women, and what are evil spirits? ....... 150 13755: The Muslims as seen by themselves and by others ...................................................................... 152 13497: Islamic holy days and special occasions ......... 153 13946: She wants to enter Islam; do her two children have to say the Shahaadah too? ..................... 160 23444: If his wife becomes a Muslim then apostatizes, what should he do? .................................. 160 20756: Islam and Muslims .......................................... 162 Chapter 3............................................................................... 164 21613: A Christian is asking whether it is possible for him to enter Islam .................................... 164 21010: Woman between the honouring of Islam and the humiliation of Jaahiliyyah .............................. 165 10267: When did Islam begin and who started the Muslim tradition? .................................................. 170 10590: The tolerance of Islam ..................................... 171 12283: A Christian woman is asking whether her marriage to a Muslim is valid ............................... 174 12376: Da’wah – calling others to Islam .................... 180 10134: Ruling on those who are not reached by the call of Islam ........................................................... 185 12373: He is very close to Islam ................................. 186 11934: His Muslim wife’s relatives are kaafirs who mistreat her .......................................................... 187 12215: She is in a relationship with a Christian man and she wants him to become Muslim so she can marry him ....................................................... 189 11936: It is not essential to have witnesses in order to enter Islam ..................................................... 190 7453: He became Muslim and he has musical instruments – what should he do with them? .............. 191 11232: Giving a lecture about Islam in a church ......... 192 4036: She wants to embrace Islam but does not want to leave her kaafir husband ................................. 193 8593: If he announces his Islam they will not give vii

him a job; can he conceal his faith? ............................ 196 Chapter 4............................................................................... 198 11819: How To Become a Muslim ? ........................... 198 10232: Ruling on the call for closeness and reconciliation between religions ................................. 203 10213: Ruling on the call to unite all religions ........... 218 10212: Is the fact that Christians live among Muslims sufficient for the Message to have been conveyed to them? .............................................. 228 10199: Is it permissible to give books containing aayaat from the Qur’aan to Christians? ....................... 229 8798: Is it permissible to accept an invitation to a meal from a non-Muslim in order to get close to him? ............................................................... 230 9455: She is thinking of becoming Muslim, and is asking how she could perform the prayers at school ...................................................................... 232 3408: Stories of women who became Muslim and left their kaafir husbands ...................................... 233 1036: It is not permissible to call kuffaar to Islam by means of religious songs (nasheeds) accompanied by musical instruments .......................... 238 7849: asking what is our religion ................................ 239 6706: He wants to become Muslim but he is worried that he will not be able to do the prayers at work ......................................................................... 240 6703: It is easy to enter Islam ...................................... 241 5421: Interested in Islam ............................................. 243 5424: Her sister’s resistance towards Islam ................ 244 5452: She has a tattoo from before she was Muslim ........................................................................ 247 Chapter 5............................................................................... 249 6389: You have to do it: do it and don’t hesitate ............. 249 4685: Feelings of a Christian man of religion towards his daughter’s Islam ....................................... 253 5656: How should a Muslim man make Da’wah to non-Muslim women? .............................................. 254 viii

6018: He is convinced of Islam but is concerned about his parents who are staunch Christians ............. 255 5955: A Jewish boy asking about Islam ...................... 258 2195: A new Muslim is not to make up missed Islamic duties before accepting Islam ......................... 262 4991: She wants to become Muslim but she cannot accept some of the rulings such as hijaab and doing the prayers on time. .................................... 263 6542: She wants to become Muslim but she envisages a problem with regard to Hajj and official papers .............................................................. 266 5019: Response to a request from a kaafir woman for a story of a great Muslim woman .......................... 268 4775: A Christian woman who wants to become Muslim, but her husband is a kaafir and an alcoholic, and she has a relationship with a Muslim man ..................................................... 274 5024: His brother has become Muslim but he is hesitant and wants advice ........................................ 278 4816: She wants to become Muslim but thinks she will have problems with her friends, family and job ......................................................................... 281 4246: becoming a Muslim ........................................... 284 4028: Response to a stubborn disbeliever ................... 285 Chapter 6............................................................................... 293 4319: A Jewish woman thinking about embracing Islam ............................................................................ 293 3143: Why does Islam continue to be successful in the developed world? .............................................. 298 3601: Can he call non-Muslims to Islam with the little knowledge that he has? ................................. 301 3313: Difficulties facing a Christian girl who wants to take the decision to enter Islam..................... 303 749: Wants to embrace Islam but has a girlfriend and children ................................................................. 307 2293: Is there any conflict between entering Islam and playing basketball? ..................................... 309 ix

3100: Clever guess on the part of a Christian woman ......................................................................... 310 2690: A serious dialogue with a Christian................... 310 3023: She is in love with a Muslim and wants to marry him – does she have to become Muslim? ...................................................................... 323 2889: The boss is a gay kaafir ..................................... 325 2847: Wants to become Muslim but lives in drug country ................................................................ 325 1402: Starting-point for one who wants to enter Islam ............................................................................ 327 2875: A Muslim working for an atheist....................... 333 2666: Wants to embrace Islam but is nervous about going to the mosque .......................................... 333 2273: The Ten Commandments .................................. 335 Chapter 7............................................................................... 340 2607: Wants to embrace Islam but fears eating pork without knowing ................................................. 340 3265: Does the father’s country of origin or the mother’s colour prevent their son from becoming Muslim? ...................................................... 341 1656: Thinking about becoming Muslim so her Muslim boyfriend might marry her ....................... 344 2585: Wants to embrace Islam but has been advised to wait ............................................................ 345 284: How a new Muslim should change his name ...... 346 2644: She became Muslim and was cut off by her non-Muslim mother............................................... 347 1984: Young Girl wants to embrace Islam .................. 351 1930: Doubts of one who is interested in Islam .......... 352 1917: Wants to embrace Islam but is married to a non-Muslim .............................................................. 362 655: One who dies believing in Islaam without converting .................................................................... 364 219: The merits of Islaam ............................................ 365 1150: Circumcision and Choosing a Name for a New Muslim ............................................................. 377 x

861: Wants to embrace Islam but there are no Muslims Town ........................................................ 378 758: Wants to accept Islam but fears for her mother’s health ............................................................ 380 703: Converting to Islam as a religion bringing one closer to God ........................................................ 383 Chapter 8............................................................................... 386 378: Declaring shahaadah and performing salaat for a new non-Arabic speaking Muslim ...................... 386 216: Responding to attacks upon and distortions of Islam........................................................................ 388 122: Changing one’s name upon accepting Islam ....... 389 177: A person just accepting Islam should pronounce shahaadah before wudu ............................. 392 83: Obeying a command to do something not permitted in Islam ....................................................... 393 114: What is required to accept and convert to Islam ........................................................................ 394 65: Permissibility of using mubahala with kaafir spouse after divorce .......................................... 398 4: Junob and cannot perform ghusl or tayammum ...... 400

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Introduction Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds, and peace and blessings be upon His last Messenger, Prophet Muhammad, and on his family and his companions. This book, Calling non-Muslims to Islam, is the twentieth volume of a series of authoritative Islamic books entitled Islam: Questions And Answers. The overall series discusses issues relevant to Islam, and present accurate and reliable information based on the true beliefs and practices of the Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allaah be upon Him) and his companions. The objectives of the various books include: to teach and familiarize Muslims with various aspects of their religion to be a source for guiding people to Islam to assist in solving the social and personal problems of the Muslims in an Islamic context The books are directed towards Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Subject areas include, but are not limited to, Islamic fiqh and jurisprudence, Islamic history, Islamic social laws (including marriage, divorce, contracts, and inheritance), Islamic finance, basic tenets and aqeedah of the Islamic faith and tawheed, and Arabic grammar as it relates to the Qur'an and Islamic texts. The books are compilations of questions and responses about Islam, from both Muslims and Non-Muslims. The responses are handled mainly by internationally re-nowned Islamic shaykhs and scholars, including Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah, Ibn Katheer, al-Albaani, Shaykh Ibn Baaz, Ibn al-Jawzi, Ibn al-Qayyim, Al‘Izz ibn ‘Abd al-Salaam, al-Nawawi, Shaykh ‘Abd al-Kareem, al Khudayr, Al-Dhahabi, al-Qurtubi, Al-Sindi, al-Shawkaani and al-Bastawi using only authentic, scholarly sources based on the Qur'an and sunnah. References, which include Haashiyat Ibn Maajah, Sharh Saheeh Muslim, Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 1

Silsilat al-Ahaadeeth al-Da’eefah, Al-Mawsoo’ah fi Ahaadeeth al-Mahdi al-Da’eefah wa’l-Mawdoo’ah, Al-Manaar al-Muneef and Fataawa Islamiyyah, are provided where appropriate in the responses. The book provides the reader with cross references of other pertinent responses not necessarily in the same volume, but also in other volumes of the series. However, each volume is complete in itself. The book records accurately the answers the contributing Sheikhs and scholars gave to the questions put to them. These are not necessarily the answers which other sheikhs and scholars would have given. Depending on circumstances, for example, Islam permits different solutions to some questions The book also provides the reader with cross-references to other pertinent responses not necessarily in the same volume, but also in other volumes of the series. However, each volume is complete in itself. It is intended that this present series of Books will cover the following subject areas (insha-Allah): Aqeedah (Basic Tenets of Faith); Usool ul-Fiqh (Science of evidence that serve as basis for Fiqh), Fiqh (Jurisprudence and Islamic Rulings), Da'wah (Inviting others to Islam), Aadaab (Manners), Akhlaaq (Character and Morals), Tareekh wa ul Seerah (Islamic history and biography), Tarbiyyah (Pedagogy, education, and upbringing) and Mashakil Nafsiyah wa Ijtimaa'yah (Psychological & Social Problems). May Allah reward the owners and maintainers of www.islamqa.com for granting me full, exclusive, assignable and transferable rights to use and display all the questions and answers needed for the compilation of these books. May Allah grant everyone involved in the promotion of this project good in this world and the Hereafter and protection from the fire of hell.

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Chapter 1 38161: A Christian is asking what is written on the gate of Paradise? Question: What is written on the gates of paradise?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: Paradise does not have only one gate, rather it has many gates. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And those who kept their duty to their Lord (AlMuttaqoon – the pious) will be led to Paradise in groups till when they reach it, and its gates will be opened (before their arrival for their reception) and its keepers will say: Salaamun ‘Alaykum (peace be upon you)! You have done well, so enter here to abide therein” [al-Zumar 39:73] There is also evidence narrated in the Sunnah which points to the number of these gates. For example, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “In Paradise there are eight gates, among which is a gate called al-Rayyaan, through which no one will enter except those who fast.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3257; Muslim, 1125. This hadeeth indicates that the number of gates is eight. Secondly: There are some reports which speak of what is written on 3

Calling non-Muslims to Islam

the gate of Paradise. The strongest report that we have found is that which was narrated by al-Tabaraani and alBayhaqi from Abu Umaamah (may Allaah be pleased with him), that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “A man entered Paradise and saw written on its gate ‘Charity receives a tenfold reward and a loan an eighteenfold reward.’” Classed as hasan by al-Albaani. See Saheeh al-Targheeb wa’l-Tarheeb, 1/537. Although some scholars were inclined to accept the attribution of this hadeeth to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), others – including Ibn al-Jawzi, al-‘Iraaqi, al-Manaawi and others – classed it as da’eef (weak), because the narrators who transmitted it from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) include a narrator who is very weak. There is another report which says: “Written on the gates of Paradise is: ‘Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah Muhammad RasoolAllaah ‘Ali akhoo rasool-Illaah (There is no god but Allaah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah, ‘Ali is the brother of the Messenger of Allaah).’ This was written two thousand years before the creation of the heavens and the earth.” But this is a false report which cannot be attributed to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). See al-Silsilah al-Da’eefah, vol. 10, no. 4901. We should also note that speaking about this topic or similar topics that have to do with Paradise, Hell or other matters of the unseen cannot be accepted as correct unless it is based on revelation (wahy) that is proven to be from Allaah, on the lips of His Messenger. 4

Calling non-Muslims to Islam

And we have to ask ourselves: what is the practical benefit of knowing such things? What good things will we be missing out on if we do not know this? The question which we should really be asking is: How can we get to those gates? How can they be opened for us? How can we enter them? This is the decisive question which people should concern themselves with. In truth there is only one way to reach Paradise: the straight path in which there is no crookedness. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And verily, this is My straight path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His path. This He has ordained for you that you may become AlMuttaqoon (the pious)” [al-An’aam 6:153] The first step on that straight path is believing that there is no god but Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah, believing that Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is a Prophet and Messenger from Allaah. This is the matter concerning which Allaah took the covenant and pledge from the Prophets before they were sent. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And (remember) when Allaah took the Covenant of the Prophets, saying: ‘Take whatever I gave you from the Book and Hikmah (understanding of the Laws of Allaah), and afterwards there will come to you a Messenger (Muhammad) confirming what is with you; you must, then, believe in him and help him.’ Allaah said: ‘Do you agree (to it) and will you take up My Covenant (which I conclude with you)?’ They said: ‘We agree.’ He said:

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‘Then bear witness; and I am with you among the witnesses (for this).’” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:81] Allaah called all of those who were given a book before him to believe in this final Prophet and His plain Book. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad) explaining to you much of that which you used to hide from the Scripture and pass over (i.e. leaving out without explaining) much. Indeed, there has come to you from Allaah a light (Prophet Muhammad) and a plain Book (this Qur’aan). 16. Wherewith Allaah guides all those who seek His Good Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to the Straight Way (Islamic Monotheism)” [al-Maa’idah 5:15-16] Allaah tells us that His proof is established against the People of the Book and others by means of this final Prophet. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad) making (things) clear unto you, after a break in (the series of) Messengers, lest you say: ‘There came unto us no bringer of glad tidings and no warner.’ But now has come unto you a bringer of glad tidings and a warner. And Allaah is Able to do all things” [al-Maa’idah 5:19] After he has come, no one can enter Paradise unless they follow him and obey him. 6

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It was narrated that Jaabir ibn ‘Abd-Allaah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: Some angels came to the Prophet while he was sleeping. Some of them said, “He is sleeping.” Others said, “His eyes are sleeping but his heart is awake.” Then they said, “There is an example for this companion of yours.” One of them said, “Then set forth an example for him.” Some of them said, “He is sleeping.” The others said, “His eyes are sleeping but his heart is awake.” Then they said, “His example is that of a man who has built a house and then offered therein a banquet and sent a messenger to invite the people. So whoever accepted the invitation of the messenger, entered the house and ate of the banquet, and whoever did not accept the invitation of the messenger, did not enter the house, nor did he eat of the banquet.” Then the angels said, “Explain this example to him so that he may understand it.” Some of them said, “He is sleeping.” The others said, “His eyes are sleeping but his heart is awake.” And then they said, “The house stands for Paradise and the caller is Muhammad; and whoever obeys Muhammad, obeys Allaah; and whoever disobeys Muhammad, disobeys Allaah. Muhammad separated the people (i.e., through his message, the good are distinguished from the bad and the believers from the disbelievers).” Saheeh al-Bukhaari, 2861. According to a report narrated by al-Daarimi: Rabee’ah al-Jurashi said: Some (angels) came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and it was said to him: “Let your eyes sleep and let your ears hear and let your heart understand.” He said: “My eyes slept but my ears heard and my heart understood.” He said: “It was said to me: A master built a house, then he prepared a banquet and sent a caller (to invite people). Whoever responded to the caller entered the house and ate of the banquet and the master was pleased with him, and whoever did not respond to the caller did not enter the 7

Calling non-Muslims to Islam

house or eat of the banquet, and the master was angry with him.” Allaah is the master, Muhammad is the caller, the house is Islam and the banquet is Paradise.” Sunan al-Daarimi, 11. If you want to study some of the foretelling of the coming of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) that is mentioned in the Torah and Gospel (the Bible), you can refer to the book Izhar al-Haqq by Shaykh Rahmatullah al-Hindi. May Allaah guide us and you to His Straight Path, the path of those on whom Allaah has bestowed His grace, not the path of those who have earned His anger nor of those who went astray. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 13253: Married to a Christian woman – what should he do next? Question: I’m muslem by birth. Except fasting during Ramadan, I haven’t been practicing much else of Islam til about 3 years ago. I married a christian (non practicing) american women about 5 years ago but I’ve known her for 5 more years before that. I’ve been hoping that she’ll see the light and convert to islam but it didn’t happen. We talked about it and she said that converting to islam is out of the question. She’s a very nice person from a very nice family and she helped me a lot since I moved to the USA. She wants to have kids soon (so do I), but it will kill me to see my kids grow up other then muslems. Even though she agrees that the children will grow up as muslems. She said she will teach them Islam and would not confuse 8

Calling non-Muslims to Islam

them by teaching them any other religion. She doesn’t know much about islam and she said she’ll start learning as soon as she gets pregnant. I’m very scared and depressed about this. I tried ending up the marriage 3 times but every time she cried til my heart softened and agreed to give it one more try. I’m running out of time and I don’t think I can go on with having children with her. She’ll resent it if we never have children and we’ll probably end up separated sooner ar later. Please advise me as to what to do. What are my responsibilities towards her if we should divorce?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: We advise you to adhere to Islam and adhere to its obligatory duties such as prayer, zakaah and fasting, and to be an example to your wife so that perhaps Allaah will guide her at your hands and you will achieve much good thereby. Secondly: Your anxieties and fears about your children growing up as non-Muslims – if they are born from this woman – reflects a commendable concern on your part for your religion and the religion of your children. Undoubtedly this good attitude is a good thing. In order to find peace of mind you need to make a great deal of du’aa’ and ask Allaah to protect your religious commitment and that of your children. You have to pray istikhaarah as prescribed in Islam, and ask Allaah to guide you and help you to make the right decision as far as your religious commitment is concerned, and choose whether to stay 9

Calling non-Muslims to Islam

with her and have children with her, or to leave her and marry a committed Muslim woman with whom you will feel confident – by Allaah’s leave – about your children. Be certain that whoever gives up something for the sake of Allaah, Allaah will compensate him with something better than it, as is proven in the hadeeth of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). You can make the most of your wife’s being so attached to you to explain to her that if there is a conflict between your love for her and the soundness of your religious commitment, then the soundness of your religious commitment has to take priority. Perhaps this will motivate her to enter the true religion of Allaah – Islam. You should note that you cannot force her to enter Islam without conviction, because entering the religion of Islam by force will not benefit her, as Ibn Katheer mentioned (1/211). See also The effects of marriage to kitaabi women (i.e., Jewish and Christian women), question no. 20227. Thirdly: If your circumstances are conducive to your raising your children as Muslims and protecting them from religious and moral deviation, and your wife and her family will not be able to influence them in those areas, then there is nothing wrong with trying to have children with your wife, even if she remains a Christian, because having children is also the wife’s right, and that may help her to learn about Islam and look into it as she has promised to do. Fourthly: You should try to move to a Muslim country where you will be able to give your children a sound upbringing, whether you stay with this wife or marry someone else, because staying in the kaafir lands is not permissible 10

Calling non-Muslims to Islam

except in cases of necessity or where it serves the interests of the Muslims – such as staying there to call people to Allaah, or to study and acquire knowledge that the Muslims need but is not available in their countries – so long as one is able to practise Islam openly and call others to Islam, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I disavow any Muslim who stays among the mushrikeen.” Narrated by Abu Dawood, 2645; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood. For more information on this issue please see question no. 13363. Fifthly: In the event of a divorce, then the wife is entitled to the delayed mahr (dowry), if applicable. With regard to accommodation and maintenance, that depends on the type of divorce: If a man has given his wife one revocable talaaq (divorce), then she is entitled to accommodation and maintenance during the ‘iddah; she may also inherit from him and he from her (if either of them dies) during this period, because they are still married. The evidence that a woman divorced by a revocable talaaq is entitled to accommodation is the verse in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O Prophet! When you divorce women, divorce them at their ‘Iddah (prescribed periods) and count (accurately) their ‘Iddah (periods). And fear Allaah your Lord (O Muslims). And turn them not out of their (husband’s) homes nor shall they (themselves) leave, except in case they are guilty of some open illegal sexual intercourse. And those are the set limits of Allaah. And whosoever transgresses the set limits of Allaah, then indeed he has wronged himself. You (the one who divorces his wife) know not it may be that Allaah will afterward bring some new 11

Calling non-Muslims to Islam

thing to pass (i.e. to return her back to you if that was the first or second divorce)” [al-Talaaq 65:1] If she does not go back to him until after the ‘iddah has ended, then she can only go back to him with a new marriage contract. If a man divorces his wife with an irrevocable talaaq, then she is not entitled to accommodation and maintenance during the ‘iddah, unless she is pregnant. Irrevocable divorce is of two types: (i) The “lesser” type, which is divorce before the marriage has been consummated, and the divorce in return for some compensation or payment. (ii) The “greater” type, which is the third of three talaaqs. The evidence that a woman who has been divorced by an irrevocable talaaq is not entitled to maintenance or accommodation is the report narrated by Muslim (1480) from al-Sha’bi who said: I entered upon Faatimah bint Qays and asked her about the ruling of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). She said that her husband divorced her irrevocably and she referred the matter to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to judge with regard to accommodation and maintenance. She said: He did not grant me accommodation or maintenance, and he told me to observe my ‘iddah in the house of Ibn Umm Maktoom. According to another report also narrated by Muslim she said: I mentioned that to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and he said: “You are not entitled to any maintenance or accommodation.” According to a version narrated by Abu Dawood: “You 12

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are not entitled to any maintenance unless you are pregnant.” And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 43483: Obstacles to a Christian woman marrying a Muslim man Question: I allready posted my question yesterday, but in the section “submit feedback” because I didn’t understand why this link wasn’t working. Her followes my problem/question: My boyfriend is a Muslim and has problems with his parents accepting me. They never even have met me, but his mother allready said to him several times that if he doesn’t leave me, he will never set a foot in their house again, she has treatend that they will cut him off. I don’t know what his father thinks, he talkes to his mother most of the time. (I understand that talking to a father is often difficult in the Muslim culture) I know that Muslims can mary Christians and Jews if the’re chaste, and I know that his parents aren’t permitted to cut him off just because they don’t approve of this, but what are we to do when even talking about it is out of the question ? What am I to do when they judge me before they even got to know me ? We are boy- and girlfriend and that isn’t acceptable in Islam, but we would like to mary. (Our kids will be raised as Muslims and I’m planning to learn more about the Islam so that there’s no confusion) My boyfriend doesn’t want to hurt anyone, especially not his parents, he has great respect for them. He can’t make his parents see that he loves me so much and that I’m a good girl. Also I can’t help him and talk to them, because he said that it’s not 13

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allowed to bring a woman/girl into his parents house. How can I help him with this ? Why is’t talking about it possible ? How can you solve problems when you can’t even have a discussion ? Didn’t Allah create people so they would know one another ? I believe in God/Allah, I’m trying to be a good person and pray every day. My parents raised me as a christian, but sinds I got to know a little bit about the Islam I can’t believe in the christian’s ways anymore. I think that the Islam is for me, but my boyfriend and I agreed that we concentrate on this when our problem – accepting of his parents of us - is solved. I want my relation with Allah to be pure and not being influenced by other things; A boyfriend can not be the reason why I should accept the Islam in my life, can it ? Am I to blame when I accept the islam – and keep on believing in Allah as I do now- to make things easyer for us, because the parents want that. I know a good Muslim not only thinks about him-/her-self and has to think about all the people around him/her, but I can’t accept the fact that our love has to end, just because his parents want this. Is this the will of Allah ? Please give us advise on what to do. Why can’t they talk to me ? How can we make them understand that they cannot judge before they even know me ? And do you have any advise for him, is’t going to be a very difficult dicision.

Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We ask Allaah to guide you and to show you the right path, for He is Able to do that. Firstly: We thank you for submitting your question to this Islamic 14

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website, which indicates that you have trust and are keen to find out the correct answer. Secondly: A number of the things that you find strange, as mentioned in your question, are regarded by us Muslims as normal, whereas others find them objectionable. The reason is well known among the Muslims: the attitude of worldview of the Muslim is based on full submission to the rulings of Allaah and His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and total obedience to Allaah, the Creator, the Provider, the Giver of life and death, because He has enjoined that upon us, and He knows best what is right for us. For example: you find it very strange that your boyfriend’s parents denounce the relationship between you, because according to the way you were brought up and what you are used to in the non-Islamic society in which you live, you think that this relationship is something natural and normal, in which two human souls come together and feel at ease with one another and satisfy their physical inclinations; he does things for you and you do things for him in return, and he speaks softly to you and you speak softly to him, and you can exchange gifts, etc. Islam does not forbid kind words, good treatment and gift-giving, but a Muslim man should not be alone with a non-mahram woman [i.e., one who is not a close blood relative] and be intimate with her outside the framework of marriage, because the evil consequences and harm that that leads to, such as loss of chastity, committing zina (unlawful sexual relationship), the violation of honour, conception of illegitimate children and confusion of lineage, are far worse than nice relationships and the exchange of gifts. 15

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If it were not for the intimacy you are seeking from one another, the nice treatment you are giving to one another would not have taken place. Also if there is the firm intention and resolve to get married in the future and have children who will grow up as Muslims, that still does not justify this forbidden relationship which involves many things that are forbidden in Islam. We wonder, if the relationship is so deep and strong, and you have the sincere intention of getting married, why don’t you both repent from this forbidden relationship and immediately enter upon a proper, legitimate relationship as allowed in Islam, based on marriage which Allaah has prescribed. The Islamic marriage contract is not something difficult or complicated, rather it is very easy. See question no. 2127 and 813 for more information about the marriage contract in Islam. Thirdly: It is not true that speaking to one’s father is difficult among Muslims. There is no society that is more distinguished by its strong family ties than the Muslim societies. Indeed, a quick glance at the state of the family in the west will show that sons are far away from their parents and the parents’ rights are not respected, let alone what that leads to of children being neglected and daughters being lost. Islam enjoins children to show respect to their parents, as non-Muslims who do not enjoy such a relationship realize. Because the mother tends to be gentle, loving and compassionate towards her children, and the father tends be to strict and take a rational and unemotional approach towards things, many children find it easier to talk to their mothers than to their fathers, especially with regard to 16

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emotional problems. But that does not mean that it is difficult for Muslims to talk to their fathers. But some people may have been brought up in a way that was not entirely right, which may have affected some of their behaviour and attitudes, but only in a general sense. The Muslim is supposed to love his fellow-Muslim who is a stranger, so what about one who is close to him – what about sons and fathers? Each of them should care about the interests of the other and love that which is best for him. This brings us to the second point: which is that his parents’ objection to this marriage does not mean that they are trying to control their son and does not mean that they have judged you without seeing you. Rather any father – and especially in a Muslim society – wants the best life for his son, and because the father has greater experience of life and has lived longer, and he knows how things are, he does not want his son to do something reckless which he may later regret. The father will try to keep his son away from everything that may be labeled a failure, so he does not want him to embark on something risky such as this marriage, because marriage in Islam is a strong relationship which does not just last for a limited time like the forbidden love of boyfriends and girlfriends; rather it is a relationship between the two spouses which should be ongoing and stable. So the choice (of a marriage partner) should only be made after much serious consideration and consultation with those who know more about life than we do. Naturally the difference of religion will be a cause of division between spouses, or will cause problems in the future, especially when children come along. We have heard of many such problems on this site. Yes, Islam does not forbid a Muslim man to marry a chaste Christian or Jewish woman; Islam allows that, but it does 17

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not encourage it. Our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) urged us to choose a wife who is righteous, religiously committed and has a good attitude. Hence the fact that his parents have rejected this marriage was not a hasty judgement, rather it was because they know how things are. You may say, “My marriage to this man will be different, but they don’t realize that.” Again I say: it will be different, but no father wants his son to go through an experience he does not need, especially when the current relationship between you is forbidden according to Islam. Fourthly: You ask, Will there by any blame on me if I accept Islam – outwardly – and continue to believe in Allaah as I do now? The answer is that this is a serious matter. Our pure monotheistic religion cannot be toyed with, or used for personal motives. Hence one of the basic principles of this religion is: “There is no compulsion in religion. Verily, the Right Path has become distinct from the wrong path. Whoever disbelieves in Taaghoot and believes in Allaah, then he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold that will never break” [al-Baqarah 2:256] If a person enters the religion of Allaah as a game with no serious intent, he deserves the curse of Allaah and he will be with the disbelievers, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 18

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“Verily, the hypocrites will be in the lowest depth (grade) of the Fire” [al-Nisa’ 4:145] Fifthly: This problem may be solved in several ways, the first, best and quickest of which is for you to start to learn what Islam really is, the comprehensive nature of this religion, and how it is in accordance with the sound nature of man. So learn about the religion of Islam, for no other reason than to find out the truth and to get out of the vicious circle of confusing ideas and beliefs that go against sound nature and reason. Then – if you strive hard – you will come to know the clear truth and the light of certain faith, and the matter of marriage will become easy for you – if Allaah wills. There is nothing wrong with your marriage to this man being a reason for you finding out about Islam. But if you take this first step, it is better and more appropriate than getting married and then thinking about Islam. If the family consists of two Muslim spouses from the outset, then Allaah will bless it and care for it, and they will be the basis of a family that is beloved to Allaah, because it is Muslim. Perhaps if you and your boyfriend announce that you have repented and get married according to Islamic sharee’ah, this will reduce his parents’ worries and negative attitude. If you tell them that you have entered Islam, then the One Who is more important than anyone else will be pleased with that, namely Allaah, may He be exalted. If you please Allaah, no matter whom you anger among your family, 19

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He will be pleased with you and will cause people to be pleased with you. It may be appropriate – but you need to think about this and choose the right time– for you to visit his mother yourself, without your boyfriend being with you, so you can tell her that you are keen to enter Islam and repent from this forbidden relationship, and marry her son according to the laws of Allaah. As we have mentioned above, Islam allows marriage to chaste non-Muslim women, so why not start to live a chaste and pure life, far away from any relationship that goes against that? Your saying that your boyfriend cannot be the reason why you accept Islam is true in a sense, in that you will become Muslim not for love of this person but for love of the truth and love of Allaah Who has chosen Islam as the religion for mankind. The evidence for this is clear and does not need a strong emotional motive, because the evidence and proof of the truth is sufficient. We must not forget, before ending this answer, to commend the phrase you used in your question, which is, “Since I got to know a little bit about Islam I can’t believe in the Christians’ ways any more.” This indicates that you are very close to the truth and that your conviction is taking the right shape, and that truth and falsehood cannot reside together in your heart. This is a good sign. Ask Allaah to guide you to the path of truth and to open your eyes to the light. May Allaah guide you to the straight path. And Allaah knows best. For more information please see questions no. 33656, 20884. 2527. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 20

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48981: Is giving zakaah to those whose hearts are to be opened to Islam a kind of bribe? Question: Some people accuse Islam by saying that giving to “those whose hearts are to be softened” (al-mu’allafatu quloobihim) is a kind of bribe and enticing them with money to enter Islam. Is this correct?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Giving money to those whose hearts are to be opened is not a bribe, because a bribe is money which a person gives to someone to help him to avoid a duty or to get something to which he is not entitled. But giving money in order to soften a person’s heart and open it towards Islam is helping them to discover the truth and encouraging them to follow it by entering Islam. It is a kind of jihad using money. Allaah has allocated a share of zakaah for those whose hearts are to be softened, as He says (interpretation of the meaning): “As-Sadaqaat (here it means Zakaah) are only for the Fuqaraa’ (poor), and AlMasaakeen (the poor) and those employed to collect (the funds); and to attract the hearts of those who have been inclined (towards Islam)…” [al-Tawbah 9:60] This share should be taken to the ruler and given to those who he sees are close to accepting Islam. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) gave those whose hearts were to be softened wealth from the spoils 21

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of the battle of Hunayn, which led to entire tribes becoming Muslim. This is an ongoing issue, and one of the means of da’wah that should be revived, because people are naturally inclined to like those who are kind to them: “Be kind to people and you will capture their hearts How often has kindness made people treat you like a master.” al-Qurtubi, al-Jaami’ li Ahkaam al-Qur’aan, 8/181; Ibn al-Atheer, al-Nihaayah fi Ghareeb al-Hadeeth, p. 359; al-Booti, Fiqh al-Seerah, p. 430 The correct attitude for the Muslim, if he sees a clear and unambiguous text concerning some matter – whether it coincides with current custom, or with western culture, or not – is that he should follow it without any kind of embarrassment or fear, and whether he knows the wisdom behind it or not. May Allaah send blessings upon His noble Prophet. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 27302: A Muslim whose kaafir family are threatening to hang him because of his being Muslim Question: I am a Muslim but my family are kaafirs. What should I do with them, when they did not accept me being Muslim and want me to go back to their religion, and they are threatening to hang me? What should I do?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 22

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First of all I would like to give you the glad tidings of the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “There will come a time when the person who is patient in adhering to his religion will be like one who holds on to a life coal.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi from Anas; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani because of corroborating reports. See al-Silsilah al-Saheehah, 957 We ask Allaah to make you steadfast in adhering to the truth and not to let the blame of anyone or the evil of any wrongdoer affect you. Remember the words of Allaah to His Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “but beware of them lest they turn you (O Muhammad) far away from some of that which Allaah has sent down to you” [al-Maa’idah 5:49 – interpretation of the meaning] I advise you to flee for the sake of your religion to a place where you can find people to help you follow the truth. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “He who emigrates (from his home) in the Cause of Allaah, will find on earth many dwelling places and plenty to live by. And whosoever leaves his home as an emigrant unto Allaah and His Messenger, and death overtakes him, his reward is then surely, incumbent upon Allaah. And Allaah is Ever OftForgiving, Most Merciful” [al-Nisa’ 4:100] At the same time, you should pray for your family and ask Allaah to guide them and open their hearts to Islam. Finally, I ask Allaah to make the Muslims happy by supporting Islam and helping the believers and humiliating the kaafirs. May Allaah guide your family to Islam. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 23

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41006: A Christian asking about repentance Question: If a man decides after a life of sinfulness to come to God and promise to reform his life, I understand that Islam says that he will be forgiven and therefore inherit the promises etc. My questions though is what has happened to the weight of this man’s sin, as in sinning he has offended God and therefore this sin has to be atoned for, who is going to atone for his sin, if God is just going to forgive him on the promise of his being good and faithful? Surely as we saw with Adam there has to be a consequence for sin.... Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Praise be to Allaah Who has guided us to Islam, for we would not have been guided had He not guided us. First of all, we thank you for your question, and we ask Allaah to bless you with guidance. Allaah has created us for a great purpose, which is to worship Him Alone with no partner or associate. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And I (Allaah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone)” [al-Dhaariyaat 51:56] This is the purpose of life: to worship Allaah alone. So Allaah has not created us to eat and drink… or to relax and play… or to strive and work hard… rather He has created us to worship Him and not to be ungrateful to Him; to remember him and not forget Him. 24

Calling non-Muslims to Islam

This is the purpose of life, and what a beautiful purpose it is. When man lives to worship his Lord and Master, to serve His religion and establish His command, with his body on earth and his heart with Allaah and the Hereafter, then he understands the reality of this life and how insignificant this world is, and that what is left of this life should not be wasted in passing pleasures and temporary desires. O Allaah, bless us with Your guidance. Because worship requires explanation and guidance, Allaah sent His Messengers: “Messengers as bearers of good news as well as of warning in order that mankind should have no plea against Allaah after the (coming of) Messengers” [al-Nisa’ 4:165] Whoever submits is guided, and whoever turns away is doomed and lost. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, proofs have come to you from your Lord, so whosoever sees, will do so for (the good of) his ownself, and whosoever blinds himself, will do so to his own harm, and I (Muhammad) am not a watcher over you” [al-An’aam 6:104] If a person submits (becomes Muslim), he has chosen happiness for himself: “And whosoever has embraced Islam (i.e. has become a Muslim by submitting to Allaah), then such have sought the Right Path” [al-Jinn 72:14 – interpretation of the meaning] Because man is vulnerable to making mistakes and forgetting, and to falling into sin, Allaah has prescribed 25

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repentance for His slaves and has opened the door of repentance until the Hour begins, and He invites His slaves to repent sincerely. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O you who believe! Turn to Allaah with sincere repentance! It may be that your Lord will expiate from you your sins, and admit you into Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise)…” [al-Tahreem 66:8] “And all of you beg Allaah to forgive you all, O believers, that you may be successful” [al-Noor 24:31] See also question no. 14289. It should be noted that sins are of two types: 1 – Transgressions against the rights of Allaah. 2 – Transgressions against the rights of created beings. With regard to the first type: Transgressions against the rights of Allaah – such as adultery, drinking alcohol, neglecting obligatory duties such as prayer, zakaah, etc. These sins are punishable according to sharee’ah, such as adultery and drinking, for which the hadd punishment is to be carried out on the one who does them, and that is an expiation and a purification for him. If the hadd punishment is not carried out on him, but he repents to Allaah, then Allaah will accept his repentance and turn his bad deeds (sayi’aat) into good deeds (hasanaat). Whoever meets Allaah with these sins, without having repented or had the hadd punishment carried out on him, 26

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is subject to the will of Allaah on the Day of Resurrection: if He wills He will punish him and if He wills He will forgive him. Al-Bukhaari (18) and Muslim (1709) narrated from ‘Ubaadah ibn al-Saamit (may Allaah be pleased with him) – who was present at the Battle of Badr and was one of the prominent figures on the night of al-‘Aqabah – that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, when there was a group of his companions around him: “Give me your oath of allegiance (bay’ah), pledging that you will not associate anything with Allaah, you will not steal, you will not commit adultery, you will not kill your children, you will not fabricate lies and you will not disobey with regard to anything that is right and proper. If you fulfil that, your reward will be with Allaah, but whoever commits any of these actions, his punishment will be in this world and it will be an expiation for him. Whoever does any of these things then Allaah conceals him, it will be up to Allaah: if He wills He will forgive him and if He wills He will punish him.” So they gave their oath of allegiance to him on that basis. According to a report narrated by al-Bukhaari (6416): “Whoever does any of these things will be punished in this world and that will be an expiation for him and a purification.” Al-Haafiz said in al-Fath (1/68): It is understood from this hadeeth that carrying out the hadd punishment is an expiation for sin, even if the person who is punished does not repent. This is the view of the majority of scholars… Ahmad (1365) narrated that ‘Ali (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever commits a sin in this world and is punished for it, Allaah is too just 27

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to punish His slave a second time. Whoever commits a sin in this world then Allaah conceals that and forgives him, Allaah is too generous to go back to something that He has forgiven.” This hadeeth was classed as hasan by al-Arnaa’oot in Tahqeeq al-Musnad, and al-Haafiz classed a similar report from al-Tabaraani as hasan. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And those who invoke not any other ilaah (god) along with Allaah, nor kill such person as Allaah has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse and whoever does this shall receive the punishment. The torment will be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace; Except those who repent and believe (in Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds; for those, Allaah will change their sins into good deeds, and Allaah is OftForgiving, Most Merciful” [al-Furqaan 25:68-70] “Verily, Allaah forgives not (the sin of) setting up partners (in worship) with Him, but He forgives whom He wills, sins other than that, and whoever sets up partners in worship with Allaah, has indeed strayed far away.” [al-Nisa’ 4:116] This verse has to do with the one who does not repent. He is subject to the will of Allaah, unless he commits shirk (the sin of associating other with Allaah), because shirk cannot be forgiven. With regard to the second type of sins:

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Transgressions against the rights of people, such as transgressing against their wealth by stealing it or seizing it by force, etc., or transgressing against their honour by means of gossip and slander, or harming them physically by striking them, etc. Repentance from this type of sin is subject to the condition that the rights be restored to the people, or they agree to forgive the offender. Whoever does not do that will remain subject to the effects of his sin until the Day of Resurrection, when an amount commensurate with his offence will be taken from his good deeds (hasanaat), as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever has wronged anyone with regard to his honour or anything else, let him settle the matter today before there is no dinar and no dirham, and if he has any righteous deeds, an amount commensurate with his wrongdoing will be taken from him, and if he has no good deeds (to his credit) some of the bad deeds of his companion will be taken and added to his burden.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2317. From this we know that the view that the sinner must be punished in this world is a view for which there is no evidence, but if a person is punished (in this world) that will be an expiation for him, and if he is not punished then he repents from his sin, Allaah will accept his repentance. Even more false than this is the view of those who say that the punishment for sin may be borne by someone other than the sinner, as some ignorant people say concerning Adam (peace be upon him), claiming that his progeny – including the Prophets – bore the burden of his sin until God sent down His only son to be crucified and slain to free the world of sin! This is a lie and a fabrication against Allaah and against His Prophets, and is a kind of injustice of which the divinely-revealed laws are free, 29

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because Allaah does not punish anyone for the sins of another. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And no bearer of burdens shall bear another’s burden” [Faatir 35:18] Allaah is too merciful and too just to punish the offspring for the sins of their father, especially since he repented and Allaah accepted his repentance. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Then the Shaytaan (Satan) made them slip therefrom (the Paradise), and got them out from that in which they were. We said: ‘Get you down, all, with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be a dwelling place for you and an enjoyment for a time.’ Then Adam received from his Lord Words. And his Lord pardoned him (accepted his repentance). Verily, He is the One Who forgives (accepts repentance), the Most Merciful” [al-Baqarah 2:36-37] “Then they both ate of the tree, and so their private parts became manifest to them, and they began to cover themselves with the leaves of the Paradise for their covering. Thus did Adam disobey his Lord, so he went astray. Then his Lord chose him, and turned to him with forgiveness, and gave him guidance” [Ta-Ha 20:121-122] So two things apply in the case of Adam: he was punished for his sin, and he repented from it and Allaah accepted his repentance, and He chose him and honoured him. 30

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The point is that whoever lives a life filled with disobedience and sin only has to turn to his Lord, the most Merciful and Most Generous, and seek His forgiveness and repent, in order for Allaah to accept his repentance, as Allaah has promised (interpretation of the meaning): “Say: O ‘Ibaadi (My slaves) who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allaah, verily, Allaah forgives all sins. Truly, He is OftForgiving, Most Merciful” [al-Zumar 39:53] This is part of the kindness that Allaah has made in this tolerant sharee’ah. It was decreed for the Children of Israel that the innocent among them kill the wrongdoers so that their repentance would be accepted [cf. al-Baqarah 2:54], then Allaah lifted this heavy burden from this nation on whom He has had mercy. Finally we ask Allaah to bless the questioner and guide him and open his heart to Islam, so that he may become a member of the Muslim ummah (nation) which accepts Allaah as its Lord, Islam as its religion and Muhammad as its Prophet. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 43148: The Muslims’ beliefs concerning the Messiah ‘Eesa ibn Maryam Question: What are the Muslims’ beliefs concerning the Messiah ‘Eesa ibn Maryam?. 31

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Our beliefs concerning the Messiah ‘Eesa ibn Maryam (Jesus the son of Mary – peace be upon him) are those indicated by the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of our Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). We believe that ‘Eesa (peace be upon him) was one of the slaves of Allaah, and one of His noble Messengers. Allaah sent him to the Children of Israel to call them to believe in Allaah alone and worship Him alone. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And (remember) when ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), said: ‘O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Allaah unto you, confirming the Tawraat [(Torah) which came] before me, and giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad.’ But when he (Ahmad, i.e. Muhammad) came to them with clear proofs, they said: ‘This is plain magic’” [al-Saff 61:6] “But the Messiah [‘Eesa (Jesus)] said: ‘O Children of Israel! Worship Allaah, my Lord and your Lord.’ Verily, whosoever sets up partners (in worship) with Allaah, then Allaah has forbidden Paradise to him, and the Fire will be his abode. And for the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers) there are no helpers” [al-Maa’idah 5:72] ‘Eesa was not a god or the son of God as the Christians claim. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 32

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“Surely, they have disbelieved who say: ‘Allaah is the Messiah [‘Eesa (Jesus)], son of Maryam (Mary).’” [alMaa’idah 5:72] “And the Jews say: ‘Uzair (Ezra) is the son of Allaah, and the Christians say: Messiah is the son of Allaah. That is their saying with their mouths, resembling the saying of those who disbelieved aforetime. Allaah’s Curse be on them, how they are deluded away from the truth!” [al-Tawbah 9:30] The first words that ‘Eesa spoke when Allaah caused him to speak when he was in the cradle were (interpretation of the meaning): “He [‘Eesa (Jesus)] said: ‘Verily, I am a slave of Allaah, He has given me the Scripture and made me a Prophet’” [Maryam 19:30] We believe that Allaah supported him with miracles that proved he was speaking the truth. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “(Remember) when Allaah will say (on the Day of Resurrection). ‘O ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Remember My Favour to you and to your mother when I supported you with RoohulQudus [Jibreel (Gabriel)] so that you spoke to the people in the cradle and in maturity; and when I taught you writing, AlHikmah (the power of understanding), the Tawraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel); and when you made out of the clay, a figure like that of a bird, by My Permission, and you breathed into it, and it became a bird by My Permission, and you healed those born blind, and the lepers by My Permission, and when you brought forth the dead by My Permission; and when I restrained the Children of Israel from you 33

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(when they resolved to kill you) as you came unto them with clear proofs, and the disbelievers among them said: This is nothing but evident magic’” [al-Maa’idah 5:110] We believe that ‘Eesa was born from the Virgin Maryam with no father, and that is not impossible for Allaah Who, when He wills a thing, says “Be!” and it is. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, the likeness of ‘Eesa (Jesus) before Allaah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: ‘Be!’ — and he was” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:59] “(Remember) when the angels said: ‘O Maryam (Mary)! Verily, Allaah gives you the glad tidings of a Word [‘Be!’ — and he was! i.e. ‘Eesa (Jesus) the son of Maryam (Mary)] from Him, his name will be the Messiah ‘Eesa (Jesus), the son of Maryam (Mary), held in honour in this world and in the Hereafter, and will be one of those who are near to Allaah.” He will speak to the people, in the cradle and in manhood, and he will be one of the righteous.’ She said: ‘O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me.’ He said: ‘So (it will be) for Allaah creates what He wills. When He has decreed something, He says to it only: “Be!” and it is’” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:45-47] We believe that he permitted to the Jews some of the things that had been forbidden to them. Allaah tells us that ‘Eesa said to the Children of Israel (interpretation of the meaning):

34

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“And I have come confirming that which was before me of the Tawraat (Torah), and to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden to you, and I have come to you with a proof from your Lord. So fear Allaah and obey me” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:50] We believe that he did not die and his enemies the Jews did not kill him, rather Allaah saved him from them and raised him up to heaven alive. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And because of their (Jews) disbelief and uttering against Maryam (Mary) a grave false charge (that she has committed illegal sexual intercourse); And because of their saying (in boast), ‘We killed Messiah ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), the Messenger of Allaah,’ — but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but it appeared so to them the resemblance of ‘Eesa (Jesus) was put over another man (and they killed that man)], and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely; they killed him not [i.e. ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)]: But Allaah raised him [‘Eesa (Jesus)] up (with his body and soul) unto Himself (and he is in the heavens). And Allaah is Ever AllPowerful, AllWise” [al-Nisa’ 4:156158] We believe that he told his followers of the coming of our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And (remember) when ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam 35

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(Mary), said: ‘O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Allaah unto you, confirming the Tawraat [(Torah) which came] before me, and giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad.’ But when he (Ahmad, i.e. Muhammad) came to them with clear proofs, they said: ‘This is plain magic’” [al-Saff 61:6] We believe that he will come back down at the end of time, and will disprove the claim of his enemies the Jews that they killed him, and will disprove the claim of the Christians that he is God or the son of God, and he will not accept anything from them but Islam. Al-Bukhaari (2222) and Muslim (155) narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “By the One in Whose hand is my soul, soon the son of Maryam will descend among you [according to another report: the Hour will not begin until the son of Maryam descends among you] as a just judge. He will break the cross, kill the pigs and abolish the jizyah, and money will become abundant until no one will accept it.” “Soon” means it will inevitably happen quickly. “will descend among you” means among this ummah. “A just judge” means that he will come down and rule according to this sharee’ah, and that this sharee’ah will remain and not be abrogated, rather ‘Eesa will be one of the rulers of this ummah. “He will break the cross and kill the pigs” means he will declare as false the religion of the Christians by breaking the cross in a real sense and proving false the Christians’ claims and veneration of the cross. “and he will abolish the jizyah”: 36

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al-Nawawi said: The correct view concerning this is that he will not accept it, and he will not accept anything from the kaafirs but Islam. If any of them offer the jizyah that will not make him stop fighting them. Rather he will not accept anything but Islam or death. This is the view of Imam Abu Sulaymaan al-Khattaabi and other scholars (may Allaah have mercy on them). End quote. “Money will become abundant” – the reason for this abundance will be the descent of blessings and the spread of goodness because of justice and the absence of oppression or wrongdoing. At that time the earth will bring forth its treasures, and desire to keep money will decrease because they will know that that Hour is at hand. Then he will die and the Muslims will offer the funeral prayer for him and bury him. Ahmad (9349) narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I am the closest of people to ‘Eesa ibn Maryam because there was no Prophet between him and me…” Then he mentioned his descent at the end of time. Then he said: “And he will remain for as long as Allaah wills he should remain, then he will die and the Muslims will offer the funeral prayer for him and bury him.” Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah (2182). We believe that he will disavow himself on the Day of Resurrection of the claims that he was a god. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And (remember) when Allaah will say (on the Day of 37

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Resurrection): ‘O ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Did you say unto men: Worship me and my mother as two gods besides Allaah?’ He will say: ‘Glory be to You! It was not for me to say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it. You know what is in my innerself though I do not know what is in Yours; truly, You, only You, are the AllKnower of all that is hidden (and unseen). Never did I say to them aught except what You (Allaah) did command me to say: Worship Allaah, my Lord and your Lord. And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up, You were the Watcher over them; and You are a Witness to all things’” [al-Maa’idah 5:116-117] “ ‘Never did I say to them aught except what You (Allaah) did command me to say: Worship Allaah, my Lord and your Lord. And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up, You were the Watcher over them; and You are a Witness to all things’” [al-Maa’idah 5:116-117] This is what the Muslims believe about the Messiah ‘Eesa ibn Maryam (peace be upon him). Al-Bukhaari (3435) and Muslim (28) narrated from ‘Ubaadah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever bears witness that there is no god but Allaah alone, with no partner or associate, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, and that ‘Eesa is His slave and Messenger, a word which Allaah bestowed upon Maryam and a spirit created by Him, and that Paradise is real, and Hell is real, Allaah will admit him through whichever of the eight gates of Paradise he wishes.” 38

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We ask Allaah to make us steadfast in faith and to cause us to die as believers. May Allaah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 43164: Praying for kaafirs to be guided Question: In the answer to question no. 4569, I read that the shaykh was making du’aa’ that the Raafidis be guided. Is this appropriate? Because it is not permissible to pray for the mushrikeen. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: We thank our brother for his interest and for this question about something that is confusing him in some of the answers. Secondly: For more information on rulings concerning the Raafidis and some of their views, please see questions no. 1148 and 10272. Thirdly: Praying for forgiveness for the mushrikeen is undoubtedly haraam, as is indicated by the Qur’aan and Sunnah. 39

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Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “It is not (proper) for the Prophet and those who believe to ask Allaah’s forgiveness for the Mushrikoon, even though they be of kin, after it has become clear to them that they are the dwellers of the Fire (because they died in a state of disbelief). And Ibraaheem’s (Abraham) invoking (of Allaah) for his father’s forgiveness was only because of a promise he [Ibraaheem (Abraham)] had made to him (his father). But when it became clear to him that he (his father) is an enemy of Allaah, he dissociated himself from him. Verily, Ibraaheem was Awwah (one who invokes Allaah with humility, glorifies Him and remembers Him much) and was forbearing” [al-Tawbah 9:113-114] al-Sa’di (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: This means, it is not appropriate or good for the Prophet and those who believe in him to “ask Allaah’s forgiveness for the mushrikeen”, i.e. for those who disbelieve in Him and worship others alongside Him. “even though they be of kin, after it has become clear to them that they are the dwellers of the Fire” Although the Close Friend of the Most Merciful, Ibraaheem (peace be upon him) prayed for forgiveness for his father, that was “was only because of a promise he [Ibraaheem (Abraham)] had made to him (his father)” – when he said, “I will ask forgiveness of my Lord for you. Verily, He is unto me Ever Most Gracious” [Maryam 19:47 – interpretation of the meaning] which was before he knew of his father’s fate. When it became clear to Ibraaheem that his father was an enemy of Allaah who would die in kufr, and his preaching 40

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and reminding was not going to be of any avail, he disowned him, in order to please his Lord. “Verily, Ibraaheem was Awwah (one who invokes Allaah with humility, glorifies Him and remembers Him much)” means, he turned to his Lord in all his affairs, making a lot of dhikr and du’aa’ and always praying for forgiveness. “and was forbearing” means, he was compassionate towards people and was tolerant towards their mistakes; he was not provoked by the attitude of the ignorant, and he did not retaliate in kind against those who offended him. His father said to him, “I will indeed stone you” and he said to him, “Peace be on you! I will ask forgiveness of my Lord for you. Verily, He is unto me Ever Most Gracious” [Maryam 19:47 – interpretation of the meaning] Al-Bukhaari (3884) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) called his paternal uncle Abu Taalib to Islam when he was dying, and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I will pray for forgiveness for you so long as I am not forbidden to do so.” Then the following verses were revealed (interpretation of the meaning): “It is not (proper) for the Prophet and those who believe to ask Allaah’s forgiveness for the Mushrikoon, even though they be of kin, after it has become clear to them that they are the dwellers of the Fire (because they died in a state of disbelief).” [al-Tawbah 9:113] “Verily, you (O Muhammad) guide not whom you like” [al-Qasas 28:56] Al-Haafiz said: 41

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“So long as I am not forbidden to do so” means, so long as I am not forbidden to pray for forgiveness. Muslim (976) narrated that Abu Hurayrah said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I asked my Lord for permission to pray for forgiveness for my mother, and He did not give me permission. I asked Him for permission to visit her grave, and He granted me permission.” Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: This indicates that it is forbidden to pray for forgiveness for the kuffaar. It is clear from these two ahaadeeth that this prohibition applies to praying for forgiveness for them. The same applies to praying for them to be admitted to Paradise and saved from torment. The reason for this prohibition is: “That seeking forgiveness for them in this case (i.e., when it is clear that they are dwellers of the Fire) is a mistake and is of no use, so it is not befitting for the Prophet and the believers to do this, because if they (the mushrikeen) have died in shirk or it is known that they will die in shirk, then the word of punishment has been fulfilled against them and they will abide forever in Hell, and the intercession of those who intercede and the prayers of forgiveness of those who pray will be to no avail. Moreover, the Prophet (S) and those who believe with him are obliged to like that which pleases their Lord and hate that which angers Him; they have to take as friends those whom Allaah takes as friends and regard as enemies those whom Allaah regards as enemies, so praying for forgiveness for those who are clearly dwellers of the Fire goes against that and contradicts it.” 42

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~ Shaykh al-Sa’di (may Allaah have mercy on him). But praying for the kaafirs to be guided is not included in the prohibition on praying for forgiveness for them. It is proven that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) prayed for some of the kuffaar to be guided. Al-Bukhaari (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in alSaheeh: “Chapter on making du’aa’ for the mushrikeen to be guided so that their hearts may be softened.” Then he mentioned the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: “Al-Tufayl ibn ‘Amr came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and said. ‘[The tribe of] Daws has rebelled and rejected [Islam]. Pray to Allaah against them.’ He said, ‘O Allaah, guide Daws and bring them here.’” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2937; Muslim, 2524). Al-Haafiz said in Fath al-Baari: Al-Bukhaari mentioned the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah according to which al-Tufayl ibn ‘Amr al-Dawsi came (to the Prophet) and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, ‘O Allaah, guide Daws and bring them here.’ The phrase “so that their hearts may be softened” indicates that the compiler [i.e., al-Bukhaari] understood the variations in the Prophet’s attitude, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sometimes prayed against the kuffaar and sometimes prayed for them. He did the former when they were strong and able to do more to the Muslims, and he did the latter when they were not causing any harm to the Muslims and there was the hope that they might enter Islam, as in the story of Daws. Al-Tirmidhi narrated (2739) that Abu Moosa al-Ash’ari said: The Jews used to sneeze in the presence of the 43

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Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), hoping that he would say to them, “Yarhamakum Allaah (may Allaah have mercy on you).” But he would say, “Yahdeekum Allaah wa yuslihu baalakum) (may Allaah guide you and reform you).” Classed as saheeh by alAlbaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi. Al-Haafiz said: The hadeeth of Abu Moosa indicates that they (the kuffaar) are included in the general command to pray for one who sneezes, but there is a special prayer for them in this case, which is to pray that they be guided and reformed, and there is nothing wrong with that. This is different from the prayer said for Muslims when they sneeze, for they are the ones for whom one should pray for mercy, unlike the kuffaar. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 36803: How should he offer advice to a non-mahram woman? Question: I had a female class-mate when I was studying in middle school, but praise be to Allaah I adhered to the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) which say that one should not be alone with a non-mahram woman. My question is: I know that she has some good characteristics, and I want to offer her advice and guide her, but the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) forbade being alone with a non-mahram woman, and Allaah forbids looking at a non-mahram woman. So how can I call her (da’wah)?. 44

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. As you mention, it is haraam to be alone with a nonmahram woman and it is haraam to look at her. If you want to offer her advice, then you can speak to her when she is concealing herself from you, and without being alone with her. You could also give her some useful books and tapes that will help her to learn the rulings of her religion, or write the advice to her, or use other useful means that will not lead to fitnah and will achieve the desired goal. And Allaah is the Source of strength. Al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 14/70. (www.islam-qa.com) 13986: Good deeds done before saying Shahaadah are not valid Question: I will post my question again, I have been reading the Qur’an the past 2 years and am almost through it. In my reading I have become more and more convinced about the truth of the Qur’an and I have this year for the first time started to fast with my friends. My period started on the 2nd fast and I was given conflicting advice by 2 lady friends. One said continue with the fast the other said to stop. I then asked a male friend and he advised me to stop. Yesterday I read an article on Ramadan and it said that if you have not said the Kalimah your fast is not accepted. I am not going to repeat my whole story here, but I have 45

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sent the Kalimah to a friend as an SMS and they all know I do believe. My situation does not permit me to openly live the life of a Muslim and I have begged God to help me. I believe He understands my situation. May I continue to fast or should I stop?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We ask Allaah to open your heart to Islam and to help you to adhere to the rituals of Islam, both outwardly and inwardly. Undoubtedly your keenness to read Qur’aan and to fast indicate that you possess a great deal of goodness and love for righteous deeds. We ask Allaah to give you strength and help you. But you have to realize that this great religion comes from Allaah, the All-Wise and AllKnowing. Whatever is enjoined by Allaah and by His Messenger is Islam, and we can only know Islam through the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), who is the one who conveyed it from Allaah. The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) has told us in more than one hadeeth that Allaah does not accept any righteous deeds until after the person has uttered the Shahaadatayn. Indeed he told his companions not to tell anyone to do any of the rituals of Islam until they had pronounced the Shahaadatayn. In Saheeh al-Bukhaari (7372) and Saheeh Muslim (19) it was narrated that when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sent Mu’aadh to Yemen to call the People of the Book to Islam, he said to him: “You are going to some people from among the People of the Book. Call them to bear witness that there is no god but Allaah and that I am the Messenger of Allaah. If they accept that, 46

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then tell them that Allaah has enjoined on them five prayers each day and night. If they accept that, then tell them that Allaah has enjoined upon them charity [zakaah] to be taken from their rich and given to their poor…” According to a report in Saheeh Muslim he said: “Let the first thing to which you call them be…” Hence it should be clear to you – may Allaah help you to do good – that uttering the Shahaadatayn is the first thing that the Muslim must do if he wants to become Muslim. It is not essential for you to announce that to your family if you are not able to do that and you fear for yourself and your religion. Rather it is sufficient for you to say these words to yourself, until the time comes when you can announce it to others, when you must do so. With regard to fasting, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told menstruating women to refrain from prayer and fasting during menses (the monthly period). When the period ends, a woman has to make up the fasts of the days that she has missed. With regard to prayer, she does not have to make up the prayers. The evidence for that is as follows. A woman asked ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her), why it is that a woman who menstruates has to make up the fasts but not the prayers? She said: “Are you a Haroori?” She said, “No, I am just asking.” ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: “That (menstruation) used to happen to us at the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and we were commanded to make up the fasts but we were not commanded to make up the prayers.” Narrated by alBukhaari, 321; Muslim, 335. This woman wondered why, when her period came and she did not fast or pray, Allaah commanded women to make up the fasts but not the prayers. ‘Aa’ishah (may 47

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Allaah be pleased with her) replied by telling her that this was the command of Allaah and His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and we must accept the command of Allaah and His Messenger without raising objections based on our weak mental capacity which can only encompass a little of the wisdom of Allaah the Most Wise, All-Knowing, which is what Allaah has taught us. The ruling which we have mentioned is agreed upon by all the Muslim scholars. Imam Ibn ‘Abd al-Barr (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in his book al-Tamheed (16/67): “A woman who is menstruating should not pray, and there is consensus on this point.” And he also said (22/107): “… There is consensus that a menstruating woman should not pray during the days of her period, and she should make up the missed fasts but not the prayers, and there is no difference of opinion on any of that.” With regard to the rest of the rituals of Islam, you have to do whatever you can. Whatever you are unable to do because of fear for yourself or your religion, you are not obliged to do, as the scholars have stated, because in that case you come under the ruling of one who has no choice, and Allaah made allowances for the one who is forced to disbelieve (outwardly), so long as his heart remains open to faith and still hates kufr (disbelief). Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Whoever disbelieved in Allaah after his belief, except him who is forced thereto and whose heart is at rest with Faith; but such as open their breasts to disbelief, on them is wrath from Allaah, and theirs will be a great torment” [al-Nahl 16:106] See al-Mawsoo’ah al-Fiqhiyyah, 13/196 But you have to practise as much as you can of the rituals 48

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of Islam, then try to reach a place where you will be able to practise as much as you can of the rituals of Islam. This action is what the scholars of Islam call hijrah (migration for the sake of Allaah), and it is obligatory for every Muslim man and woman if they are unable to establish the rituals of Islam in their own country and they are able to migrate. The evidence for that is the verse in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, as for those whom the angels take (in death) while they are wronging themselves (as they stayed among the disbelievers even though emigration was obligatory for them), they (angels) say (to them): “In what (condition) were you?” They reply: “We were weak and oppressed on the earth.” They (angels) say: “Was not the earth of Allaah spacious enough for you to emigrate therein?” Such men will find their abode in Hell — what an evil destination! Except the weak ones among men, women and children who cannot devise a plan, nor are they able to direct their way” [al-Nisa’ 4:97-98] This indicates that only those who are weak are excused the obligation of migrating. It says in Mughni al-Muhtaaj (6/54): If a person is not able to practise his religion openly or he fears persecution, then it is obligatory for him to migrate, whether man or woman, even if she does not have a mahram (if they are able to migrate), because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, as for those whom the angels take (in death) while they are wronging themselves…” And because of the report narrated by Abu Dawood and others (according to which the Prophet 49

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(peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said): “I disavow every Muslim who stays among the mushrikeen (polytheists, those who associate others with Allaah).” A saheeh hadeeth - al-Irwa’, 5/30. Ibn Rushd said: It is obligatory, according to the Qur’aan, Sunnah and consensus of the Muslims for the one who becomes Muslim in a kaafir country to migrate therefrom and move to a Muslim country; he should not live or settle among the mushrikeen. That applies if he is unable to practise his religion, or he is forced to adhere to the rulings of kufr. From al-Mawsoo’ah al-Fiqhiyyah, 4/264 Even though migration means leaving one’s family and homeland, Allaah will fill the person’s heart with happiness which will make him keen to migrate. Thus it will become clear to you that so long as you are unable to practise the rituals of Islam, then Allaah by His mercy will excuse you, and whatever you are able to do, then you are obliged to do it, even if you do it in secret. If you have to put up with some difficulties that you are able to bear in order to do that, then Allaah will reward greatly the one who patiently bears hardship for His sake and for the sake of His religion. The Book of Allaah is filled with stories that speak of that. Even though uttering the Shahaadatayn is so important, Allaah has made that very easy. So we advise you to utter these words even if you only say them to yourself, because the soundness of your Islam depends on that, as I am sure you understand, until Allaah makes it easy for you to announce it publicly, by His leave. May Allaah help you to do that which is good. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 50

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27196: She became Muslim but her family did not; should she honour her family even though they mistreat her? Question: I became Muslim when I was young. My father threw me out of the house so I moved to a Muslim country with my husband to live there. I still keep in touch with my mother. Is there any sin on me for not keeping in touch with my father, knowing that he tells people I am a prostitute and he is threatening to kill me and my family?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We praise Allaah for having guided you to Islam. Undoubtedly Allaah has blessed you greatly by choosing you from among your family to be the first of them to enter this religion. We ask Allaah to make you the cause of them also entering Islam. What you have done of calling your family to Islam is what Allaah has enjoined upon you; they take priority over others when it comes to da’wah and telling them the truth. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say (O Muhammad): ‘This is my way; I invite unto Allaah (i.e. to the Oneness of Allaah — Islamic Monotheism) with sure knowledge, I and whosoever follows me (also must invite others to Allaah, i.e. to the Oneness of Allaah — Islamic Monotheism with sure knowledge). And Glorified and Exalted be Allaah (above all that they associate as partners with Him). And I am not of the Mushrikoon (polytheists, pagans, idolaters and 51

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disbelievers in the Oneness of Allaah; those who worship others along with Allaah or set up rivals or partners to Allaah)’” [Yoosuf 12:108] “And warn your tribe (O Muhammad) of near kindred” [al-Shu’ara’ 26:214] The person who calls others to Allaah should be gentle and subtle in his approach, especially with his family. Allaah has commanded us to treat our parents kindly, even if they are kaafirs and call us to kufr. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Invite (mankind, O Muhammad) to the way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Revelation and the Qur’aan) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided” [al-Nahl 16:125] “And We have enjoined on man to be good and dutiful to his parents; but if they strive to make you join with Me (in worship) anything (as a partner) of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not. Unto Me is your return and I shall tell you what you used to do” [al-‘Ankaboot 29:8] If any of them does not respond, his misguidance is his own problem and Allaah will not make the daa’iyah accountable for any of his sin. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Whoever goes right, then he goes right only for the 52

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benefit of his ownself. And whoever goes astray, then he goes astray to his own loss. No one laden with burdens can bear another’s burden. And We never punish until We have sent a Messenger (to give warning)” [al-Isra’ 17:15] What you did, migrating to one of the Muslim countries and getting married, was the right thing to do. The Muslim cannot usually maintain his or her religious commitment in a hostile environment where he or she is a stranger; it is especially hard for a woman who has no power and no strength except with Allaah. This difficulty is demonstrated by what your father did, throwing you out of the house when he found out that you are a Muslim, Your keeping in touch with your mother and asking after your father is something for which you deserve praise; this is something that Allaah has enjoined upon you. The rights of parents are great, so do not cut off your ties with them, even if they mistreat you. Try to get in touch with your father and speak kindly to him; perhaps that will be a cause of his being guided and will dispel the hardness in his heart towards you. With regard to your father’s threats, do not pay any attention to them and do not worry about them; nothing will happen to you or your husband or your family except that which Allaah has decreed for you. So take precautions and seek refuge with Allaah, for He is the Best of protectors and He is the Most Merciful of those who show mercy. With regard to his slander and accusations against you, this comes under the heading of the kaafir’s persecution of the Muslim. The honour of our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was slandered when his wife and our mother, the Mother of the Believers 53

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‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) was accused of adultery; and it was said that he was a sorcerer, a soothsayer and a madman. Similar accusations were made against his brother Prophets as well. Be patient and trust that Allaah will give you a way out and will relieve you of your worry; seek His help and always make du’aa’ to Him and turn to Him, for He is the Best of supporters and helpers. We ask Allaah to make you steadfast in adhering to His religion and to increase you in guidance, insight and knowledge. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 27105: What is the ruling on living with a kaafir mother? Question: What is the ruling on living with kafir mother and wanting to move your wife into the home with her?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. There is no reason why a son should not live with his kaafir mother, or her with him. That may be a means of her being guided to Islam, if the son treats her well and gives a good impression of Islam; keeping away from her may be a cause of her coming to Islam being delayed. The Muslim is enjoined to treat his parents well and honour them even if they are kuffaar. It is not permissible for a Muslim to disobey them or treat them badly in word and deed. But that does not mean that he should obey her 54

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in matters that are sinful or show approval of the kufr that she believes in. (a) Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And We have enjoined on man to be good and dutiful to his parents; but if they strive to make you join with Me (in worship) anything (as a partner) of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not. Unto Me is your return and I shall tell you what you used to do” [al-‘Ankaboot 29:8] (b) And Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “But if they (both) strive with you to make you join in worship with Me others that of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not; but behave with them in the world kindly, and follow the path of him who turns to Me in repentance and in obedience. Then to Me will be your return, and I shall tell you what you used to do” [Luqmaan 31:15] (c) It was narrated that Asma’ bint Abi Bakr (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: My mother came to me at the time of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and she was a mushrik. I asked the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) about that, saying, “My mother has come to me and she wants to visit me; should I uphold the ties of kinship with her?” He said, “Yes, uphold the ties of kinship with your mother.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2477; Muslim, 1003) (d) It was narrated from Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqaas that a verse of Qur’aan was revealed concerning him. He said: Umm Sa’d swore that she should never speak to him until he 55

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gave up his religion, and she would never eat or drink. She said, “You claim that Allaah commands you to honour your parents, and I am your mother, and I am telling you to do this.” He said, She stayed like that for three days, until exhaustion overtook her, then one of her sons, whose name was ‘Amaarah, got up and gave her some water, and she started to pray against Sa’d. Then Allaah revealed Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning): “And We have enjoined on man to be good and dutiful to his parents; but if they strive to make you join with Me (in worship) anything (as a partner…”[al-‘Ankaboot 29:8] And He said (interpretation of the meaning): “…but behave with them in the world kindly…” [Luqmaan 31:15] Narrated by Muslim, 1748. (e) There follows a fatwa from Shaykh ‘Abd al-‘Azeez ibn Baaz (may Allaah have mercy on him) regarding the issue of obeying parents with regard to shaving the beard: Question: Regarding obeying your father with regard to shaving the beard. The Shaykh replied: It is not permissible for you to obey your father in shaving the beard, rather you must let it grow, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Trim the moustache and let the beard grow; be different from the mushrikeen.” And he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Obedience is only with regard to that which is good and proper.” Letting the beard grow is obligatory, not just Sunnah, according to fiqhi terminology, because the Messenger 56

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of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded that, and the basic principle is that a command is obligatory. Majmoo’ Fataawa al-Shaykh Ibn Baaz, 8/377-378 See also the answer to question no. 5053 and 6401. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 27107: She is married to a Muslim and hijab is putting her off Islam Question: My husbad is Muslim and has talked frequently about me becoming Muslim myself. I just have one concern... the women being covered. Why do they need to cover themselves and only reveal what is odinarily revealed. I am American, we reveal almost the entire body here. I just want to get an understanding. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. There can be no doubt that Allaah only enjoins that in which there is wisdom, but in some cases the wisdom behind some rulings may be hidden from people, and in some cases it may be quite obvious – such as the prohibition on alcohol which clouds the mind and hinders people from the remembrance of Allaah and from prayer [cf. al-Maa’idah 5:91]. The wisdom behind the prescription of hijab is one of the 57

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most clear, because it is a covering for woman and guards their chastity, and it prevents the foolish from making approaches and harassing them. How often has a woman’s hijab prevented the devils among mankind from harrassing her? How often have unveiled women made a display of their beauty and charms, which has led to their being harrassed by the foolish? Concerning this, Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks (veils) all over their bodies (i.e. screen themselves completely except the eyes or one eye to see the way). That will be better, that they should be known (as free respectable women) so as not to be annoyed. And Allaah is Ever OftForgiving, Most Merciful” [al-Ahzaab 33:59] This verse gives the complete answer to your question, because Allaah mentions here the command to His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to tell his wives and daughters and the believing women to wear hijab, and it mentions the wisdom behind that, which is so that they may be protected and not exposed to annoyance. When women go out showing most of their bodies – as the questioner mentions – this is one of the greatest causes of crime and corruption of men’s morals, and of the spread of immorality. It is also degrading for woman, as we see women becoming cheap products for business-owners and advertisers, who show woman half-naked and devoid of modesty in order to attract customers and market their products. A woman’s body belongs to her and is not to be shared with people. When she gets married it belongs to her 58

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husband and she should not let anyone else have a share in it. What does a woman want when she shows her body and exposes her charms to onlookers? Does she just want them to look and stare, and what is the affect of that on rapists and the foolish? How are you going to stop them from getting what they want by attacking you and trying to rape you. Are you going to show some meat to the hungry and then try to stop them from eating it? In a modern study it was shown that: 65% of female workers are exposed to sexual harassment in their place of work in some European countries. 18% of women in America have been raped or been subjected to attempted rape at some stage in their lives. More than half of victims were under the age of 17. Kitaab Ihsaa’aat, Diraasaat, Arqaam (p. 140). Islamic sharee’ah brought that which is best for men and for women, and for the family and society. It does not impose restrictions on women as some enemies of Islam claim. Islam allows women to work, seek knowledge, engage in business, testify in court, uphold the ties of kinship, visit the sick, and so on, but it has set limits regarding her going out in order to protect her and to prevent the foolish from harassing her. We say to the questioner: Many western women, when they think about it and come to know the reality of Allaah’s laws concerning women, do not hesitate to declare their Islam and enter into the religion of the Prophets and the righteous. In Islam, women are protected and looked after. That is not in return for her staying in the home only, rather that 59

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is because she plays a great role, which is taking care of her husband and raising and caring for children. This is an important role, because the soundness or corruption of society depends on the extent to which mothers are successful in their raising and teaching of their children. One of the largest British insurance companies carried out a study on one million housewives, which produced amazing results. This study showed that the average fulltime housewife spends 19 hours per day meeting the needs of her family, because she is the one who is raising the children, teaching them, looking after family members when they fall sick, and is responsible for the household budget. In addition to that – looking at what the houswife’s value from a purely materialistic point of view, far removed from any emotional criteria – a woman who stays at home is the most valuable thing the family can have. Op. cit., p. 118, 119 It has become clear to many wise women the serious danger posed by the false freedom that they are enjoying and they have finally realized where this path will lead them. It is stated in another study that: 80% of American women think that the freedom that women have gained in the last 30 years is the reason for the promiscuity and violence that are prevalent nowadays. 75% feel worried about the loss of values and the disintegration of the family. 80% have great difficulty in combining their responsibilities at work with their responsibilities towards their husbands and children. 87% said that if the clock was turned back they would 60

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consider the demands for equality as a social conspiracy against the United States and they would resist those who raise the banner of equality. op. cit., p. 147 All it needs is for you to think about the matter a little, and look at real life, and you will see that hijab spares women from evil, harm and crimes. Islam has closed the door to such evils with its laws, including the requirement for women past the age of puberty to wear hijab. Finally we would like to congratulate you on the fact that Allaah has granted you a Muslim husband, so that you will be able to see Islam in practice from him and his Muslim relatives, which may encourage you to enter Islam and which may remove the barrier of fear about entering this great and purely monotheistic religion. Also note that entering this final religion, which Allaah wants for all people, is a great honour of which you may be deprived if you delay and death then overtakes you. So hasten to enter Islam, with submission to the will of Allaah, with eagerness and delighting in this blessing of Allaah. You should note that if you fall short in your observance of hijab because your human weakness or you feel embarrassed in front of your people, this is regarded as a sin. That should not prevent you from doing the great good deed which will lead you to Paradise and save you from Hell, namely embracing Islam. You should also note that the Shaytaan (Satan) is the enemy of all the sons of Adam, and he is the one who is stirring up these doubts in order to prevent you from entering this religion, so that he can increase the number of those who will follow him to Hell. So be strong and courageous in making the decision that will lead to eternal happiness, by Allaah’s leave. We ask Allaah to help you and to give you the will power to enter Islam as our sister in Islam, and to share this blessing. We thank you for your confidence in us. 61

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And Allaah is the Guide to the Straight path. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 20959: Should he sit with his colleagues at work when they are drinking alcohol? Question:

I work for an american company. I am the only muslim. I am forced to be on business trips or functions with people from my work who sometimes drink alcohol. am I doing sin by being with them when I am not drinking or doing anything against my beleives.If I don’t participate in those functions, maybe I will jeopardize my Job. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Allaah has favoured this ummah over other nations in many matters, chief among which is enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “You (true believers in Islamic Monotheism, and real followers of Prophet Muhammad and his Sunnah) are the best of peoples ever raised up for mankind; you enjoin Al-Ma‘roof (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam has ordained) and forbid AlMunkar (polytheism, disbelief and all that Islam has forbidden), and you believe in Allaah” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:110] What you have to do – as you are the only Muslim in 62

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your company, as you say – is to be proud of the teachings [?] of your religion, and strive to apply them, and not to do anything that you are forbidden to do. This is something that will raise you in status and increase your reward. Staying with them even though you are not drinking alcohol yourself is still a sin in itself, because Allaah has commanded us not to sit in places where evil is committed, otherwise what befalls those who are committing the evil action will also befall us. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And it has already been revealed to you in the Book (this Qur’aan) that when you hear the Verses of Allaah being denied and mocked at, then sit not with them, until they engage in a talk other than that; (but if you stayed with them) certainly in that case you would be like them” [al-Nisa’ 4:140] “And when you (Muhammad) see those who engage in a false conversation about Our Verses (of the Qur’aan) by mocking at them, stay away from them till they turn to another topic. And if Shaytaan (Satan) causes you to forget, then after the remembrance sit not you in the company of those people who are the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers)” [al-An’aam 6:68] The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever among you sees an evil action, let him change it with his hand (by taking action); if he cannot, then with his tongue (by speaking out); if he cannot, then with his heart (by hating it and feeling that it is wrong), and that is the weakest of faith.” Narrated by Muslim, 70. This denunciation of the heart refers to the stress and agitation that one feels in the presence of evil. This is an 63

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individual obligation upon all people in all situations, and they have no excuse for not doing this, because no one has any power over the heart. Staying in a place where evil is being committed goes against this required denunciation. Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: The believer has to fear Allaah with regard to His slaves, but their guidance is not his responsibility. This is what is meant by the verse in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O you who believe! Take care of your ownselves. If you follow the (right) guidance [and enjoin what is right (Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do) and forbid what is wrong (polytheism, disbelief and all that Islam has forbidden)] no hurt can come to you from those who are in error” [al-Maa’idah 5:105] Following right guidance means doing all the obligatory duties. If a Muslim does his duty of enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil, as well as other duties, the misguidance of those who are misguided will never harm him. This may be done sometimes with the heart, sometimes with the tongue, and sometimes with the hand. Denunciation with the heart is obligatory in every situation, because no harm can result from it, and whoever does not do that is not a Muslim, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “And that is the weakest of faith.” Majmoo’ al-Fataawa, 28/127 Moreover the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be

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upon him) forbade sitting at a table where wine is being drunk. It was narrated that ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever believes in Allaah and the Last Day, let him not sit at a table where wine is being drunk.” Narrated by Ahmad, 126; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 7/6. See also the answer to question no. 8957; 6992. Finally we remind you of the words of Allaah (interpretation of the meaning): “And whosoever fears Allaah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allaah, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allaah will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allaah has set a measure for all things” [al-Talaaq 65:2-3] So give up these evil things, and those trips and sitting with those people. Seek the reward for that with your Lord. If this leads to your leaving your job, then you will have a great reward with Allaah and you will find goodness, a way out and provision by His Leave. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com)

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20267: A new Muslim wants to learn the religion Question: My questions involves many things..i am a very new convert an at first i was praying all prays as best i could (i dont know arabic)someone told me i should only speak in arabic ...so in the end i have stopped praying ..i think of allah many times in the day ..an follow the teachings ..but some things i know are wrong i cannot stop ..since allah called me i have improved my life immensley an am happier than i have been in a very long time ...i used to be drunk every day ..now i almost dont drink at all ..i used to gamble all my money ..now i almost dont gamble at all .....when i do do these wrong things i can feel it is wrong an dont want to go back to my old ways ...i can feel allah is guiding me in ways i dont understand ..i dont feel guilty i just feel why am i doing this ....i have asked a few muslim people i work with an even a person i met online to teach me to pray properly an help me in other ways ..but because i am australian they dont feel i am being serious about being muslim ..so they have been reluctent..i am not a good person i think ..but i am much better than i have been an with his help an guidence i know i will succeed ..there are many things for me to learn ...please give me your advise ......should i keep trying by myself ..or continue to seek help from other muslims evn though they seem not to want to . Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Praise be to Allaah first and last, and thanks be to Him always. He blesses whomsoever He will with guidance, and deprives whomsoever He will of happiness. He saves 66

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His slave from misguidance and supports His close friends until the Hour begins. My dear Muslim brother, congratulations on your being blessed with guidance. We ask Allaah to make you steadfast until death. It was a great achievement when you decided to embrace Islam and give up the misguidance in which you had grown up and the shirk [association of others with Allaah] which is forbidden. We welcome you as a new brother in Islam and we welcome you as a visitor to this site. First of all, we would remind you that in this world man passes through great tests and trials, which require him to be patient and steadfast, and to stand firm until death. “O man! Verily, you are returning towards your Lord with your deeds and actions (good or bad), a sure returning, and you will meet (the results of your deeds which you did)” [al-Inshiqaaq 84:6 – interpretation of the meaning] One of the trials with which Allaah tests His slaves is the enjoining of obligations and duties such as prayer, fasting, zakaah, Hajj and other acts of worship, and the things that He forbids them to do such as lying, cheating, adultery, homosexuality and all other forbidden things, so as to see the sincere believer who obeys the commands of Allaah, so that He may admit him to Paradise, and the liar and hypocrite who does not obey Allaah, so that He may send him to Hell. Try to do your best to learn what Allaah commands, and do it, and what He forbids, and avoid it. There are many commands, and many prohibitions, and it is impossible to list them or explain them all in one 67

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place. But we refer you to what is mentioned in this site of ours of questions that deal with the teachings of Islam, so you can look at it and read what it says, and may Allaah benefit you thereby. With regard to what you mention in your question about having to learn Arabic, this is true, but you do not have to learn the whole language, rather just what you need for religious purposes. See question no. 6524. The fact that you do not know Arabic does not justify your not praying, because you can learn what you need for prayer in a short period of time, and until you learn it you should still continue to pray regularly on time, and pray according to what you are able to do. “Allaah burdens not a person beyond his scope” [al-Baqarah 2:286]. With regard to how to pray, you will find the answer to that on this site, under Question no. 13340. See also 8580, 2427, 11040. Finally we advise you to look for an Islamic Centre in your city, and to keep company with Muslims who practise their religion. Do not forget to read trustworthy websites, and try to benefit from them as much as you can. We will also be happy to help you and others like you who are looking for things that will benefit them, and we will offer whatever advice we can, so keep in touch with us. May Allaah protect you and take care of you. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com)

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Chapter 2 20920: Her boyfriend has become a Muslim and is making her choose between Islam and splitting up Question: I’m a christian woman and my boyfriend has converted and is a muslim now. We’ve been through so much and made a lot of promises that we always stay together even if I do not become a muslim. I am learning more about Islam. But with my job and my own believes I would never wear a veil. I always wear long sleeves and dress business. So if I would become a muslim am I not allowed to wear business clothes? I’m not scared what others think I just don’t believe in it. Last week my boyfriend told me he would never choose no one over me regardless of what religion I am and yesterday he told me I have to chose either I become a muslim or we break up because he said the e-man said he should be with a muslim woman. All I need is some time to decide what is best for me and I am learning more about the Koran. He basically put me on the spot and is forcing me to chose. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Allaah makes it easy for the one for whom He wills happiness to find it. Perhaps Allaah wills that for you by means of this person who is calling you to Islam and by means of your getting in touch with us so that you may be guided to what is best for you in this life and in the Hereafter. 69

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Islam does not allow any illicit relationship between a man and a woman. Allaah has established marriage as the legitimate means for satisfying sexual desire, and through marriage a man and woman form a family based on the laws of Allaah, and their children are legitimate. We will not tell you that hijab (the veil) is not obligatory, and we will not tell you that Islam excuses you from wearing it. Rather we will tell you that you should not let the idea of wearing hijab form an obstacle to your entering Islam. You have to start by saving yourself from your current situation and enter into that which Allaah loves and is pleased with, which is to believe in Him alone (Tawheed) and to bear witness that Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is His Messenger. After you enter Islam and faith becomes established in your heart, you will have the opportunity to study and find out for yourself everything that Allaah likes, so that you can do it, and everything that He hates so you can give it up and avoid it. We advise you sincerely from the bottom of our hearts to choose that which is best for you, not so that you can marry a Muslim man, but for your own sake, and for your own happiness and salvation from the punishment and wrath of Allaah. What you are going to choose is nothing other than the religion of the Prophets of old. It is the religion of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses and Jesus. All the Prophets bore witness that God is One, and they denied that He has any partner, wife or son. Allaah accepted the Covenant from all the Prophets that they would believe in our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and that they would support him if he was sent during their lifetimes, and He commanded them to tell their nations to do likewise. Allaah made the message of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) a message to all mankind 70

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until the Hour begins [i.e., until the Day of Judgement comes], whereas the Prophets before him were each sent only to their own people. So do not hesitate. Hasten before your time is up and death comes. Choose the path that leads to happiness in this world and in the Hereafter. May Allaah make you a Muslim woman and a righteous wife who will establish a home and family based on Tawheed (belief in the Oneness of Allaah) and obedience. We ask Allaah to guide you and support you. Please also see the answer to question no. 3023. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 11865: How many times should he call a non-Muslim to Islam? Question: For up to many times should we conduct Islamic lectures to a group of non-muslims who seems not interested to what we are conveying. We are a volunteer dawah brothers and we use to visit workshops, factories, hospitals to make dawah. Oftentimes we make a visit which last 4 to 5 times in one place. But we noticed nobody is listening. Some only stayed just because the owner of the establishment ordered (obliges) them to attend. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We ask Allaah to reward you with good, and to bless your work and your efforts. 71

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There is no specific number of times that you should give lectures to those whom you mention. That depends on the number of places you visit and the time that is given to you, and the extent to which the people are responsive. The daa’iyah is required to be wise in giving da’wah. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) would try to choose the right time for preaching to his companions so that they would not get bored, and this is how you should be. Strive to call people to Islam in a way that is better, and choose suitable times and places for da’wah. The daa’iyah should not despair if he makes da’wah time after time and sees little response. Hearts are in the hand of Allaah, and all the daa’iyah has to do is to convey the message. A word that the daa’iyah thinks little of may have an effect on a person’s heart years later, and may be the cause of his being guided. In order for this word to bear fruit, it should be accompanied with a smile, compassion and a sincere desire to save these poor people and bring them forth from the darkness of kufr and atheism. If the daa’iyah can add some money or help to his words, let him do so, for that give credibility to the values and principles to which he is calling people, and may prepare people’s hearts to accept the goodness that comes to them and remove any hatred, resistance and objections. Also strive to solve any problems that these people may have with their bosses at work. This will have a great effect in softening their hearts towards the daa’iyah. Long ago the poet said: Be kind to people, you will win their hearts… Even better than that is the words of Allaah (interpretation of the meaning): 72

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“The good deed and the evil deed cannot be equal. Repel (the evil) with one which is better (i.e. Allaah orders the faithful believers to be patient at the time of anger, and to excuse those who treat them badly) then verily he, between whom and you there was enmity, (will become) as though he was a close friend” [Fussilat 41:34] You should leave with these people something that they can look at in their spare time, when you are not there, such as pamphlets and booklets. If a person thinks about the truth when he is on his own, he is more likely to accept it and submit to it. Part of your da’wah should be addressed to the bosses themselves, advising them to treat these workers well and to show them the good morals and attitudes of Islam. Often that is a cause of the workers embracing Islam, just as the bad attitude of a boss and his mistreatment of his workers may be a cause of their resisting Islam. May Allaah help you to guide others and make you truly guided. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 20849: He married a second wife and they became Muslim – what should he do with his first wife? Question: I would appreciate if you can give an immediate answer to this question which has been bothering my new brother who just professes his faith in Islam. 73

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A man has had a relationship with a woman bearing 2 children during their marriage relationship way back on their own country. In the course of time, the man got a job in Saudi Arabia for contractual basis, leaving his wife and children behind. At the time the man was working in Saudi Arabia, he met a woman and had a relationship with her which bores them 1 child. A civil marriage ceremony was consumated without the knowledge of the first wife which he leave in his own country. Now, the couple who both works in Saudi Arabia recently embraced Islam. Since both are new in the religion, fearing they might commit sins/wrongs which is against the teaching of Islam, could you please give us your advise on the following: 1. what is the Islamic ruling about the relationship mentioned? 2. what is the man’s responsibility as far as to his 2 children from the first wife, and what is his responsibility now to the first wife? 3. what sins are committed and what to do to avoid this sins? Further, please give Islmaic advice as regards the siutation stated above. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: We praise Allaah for having guided them to Islam, and we ask Allaah to make them steadfast in Islam until death, so that they may attain the Paradise of Allaah and His good pleasure. We give them the glad tidings that Islam erases whatever sin came before it. No matter what sins a person may have committed, if Allaah then blesses him 74

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with guidance to Islam, then he will become cleansed and free from sin as on the day his mother bore him. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say to those who have disbelieved, if they cease (from disbelief), their past will be forgiven” [al-Anfaal 8:38] “If they cease” means if they give up their kufr or disbelief by submitting to Allaah alone, with no partner or associate. Tafseer al-Sa’di. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Islam erases whatever came before it” (narrated by Muslim, 121) – meaning, of sin. Secondly: A man does not have the right to form a relationship with a woman who is a stranger (non-mahram) to him. If something of that nature happened before they got married, it is a sin which is recorded against them. If that happened before they became Muslim, then Allaah has forgiven it when they became Muslim. If that happened after they became Muslim, then they have to repent from that. Allaah has promised to accept the repentance of the one who turns to Him in repentance. He says (interpretation of the meaning): “And He it is Who accepts repentance from His slaves, and forgives sins, and He knows what you do” [al-Shoora 42:25] “And He it is Who accepts repentance from His slaves, and forgives sins, and He knows what you do” [Ta-Ha 20:82] 75

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For more information on repentance and its conditions, please see question no. 13990. Thirdly: There is no sin involved in a man’s marrying a second wife. Allaah has permitted a man to have up to four wives, if he is able to treat them fairly and give them all their rights. He does not have to inform his first wife of his desire to marry a second or that he has already done so. Fourthly: With regard to the man’s duties towards his children and first wife, he has to spend on them according to their needs. What really matters is that he should try to guide them and save them from the Fire, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O you who believe! Ward off yourselves and your families against a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones, over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allaah, but do that which they are commanded” [al-Tahreem 66:6] So he must do all that he can to call his wife to Islam and to advise her, and encourage her to embrace Islam. If she refuses then he can still remain married to her and not divorce her if she is from among the People of the Book (i.e., Jewish or Christian). But if she is an idol-worshipper then it is not permissible for her to remain the wife of a Muslim, so in that case he has to divorce her. Please see also question no. 9949. It should be noted that if one of the parents becomes Muslim and his children are still small (i.e., below the age of adolescence), then they are judged to be Muslim 76

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because of his becoming Muslim. But if they are adults or have reached the age of adolescence, then that is not the case. See al-Mughni, 13/115; Ahkaam Ahl al-Dhimmah by Ibn al-Qayyim, 2/507. Based on this, if the small children know that Allaah has blessed him and them with guidance to the true religion, then he has to teach them about tahaarah (purity, i.e., wudoo’) and prayer, and other rulings, so that they will grow up with it and get used to doing it, following the command of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “Teach your children to pray when they are seven years old and smack them if they do not do it when they are ten, and separate them in their beds.” Narrated by Abu Dawood, 495; classed as saheeh by Shaykh al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 5868. See also question no. 10016. He should not stay here for work and leave his young children exposed to loss and deviation; he should try to bring them here to be with him, so that he will be able to do that which Allaah has enjoined him to do of bringing them up well. If he cannot bring them here then he should be in constant contact with them, corresponding with them and guiding them. It is not permissible for him to neglect them and leave them to be lost. He will be responsible for them on the Day of Resurrection. We also encourage our new brother and his wife to learn the rulings of Islam by reading and asking knowledgeable people and reading useful Islamic sites on the internet, and to apply whatever they have learned in the required manner. We ask Allaah to make them steadfast and help them to do that which He loves and which pleases Him. 77

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And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 22852: Should he advise those who frequent pornographic websites? Question: I want to do the will of Allaah and call people to Allaah, by calling kaafirs who frequent pornographic websites. What advice can you offer us? I have a Muslim diary which contains commentary on the Qur’aan in English. What do you suggest we should do?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We advise you to ignore these pornographic websites and not look at them at all. Strive to call people to Islam in your own environment and in your own community. That is best for you. A person may be sure of his religious commitment, and he may get in touch with people who run these websites, and gradually the Shaytaan will cause him to fall into haraam, especially since there are so many of these sites and the people who set them up are so evil. So they may gradually lead this sincere person astray and may flood him with their filthy e-mails. So fear Allaah, and avoid all places of doom. Protect your religious commitment from any temptation. Keep yourself busy with that which will benefit you, such as seeking beneficial knowledge and doing righteous deeds. Note 78

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that warding off bad things takes priority over bringing benefits. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 20815: A Christian wants to become Muslim and is asking about the prayer Question: I have not read about the prayers anywhere yet, at least how they are performed.(movements,speach ie: what is said if anything specific) How can one convert not knowing arabic? Isn’t this the only language the Qu’ran should be read and recitted from? . Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Prayer is the greatest of the pillars of Islam after the Shahaadatayn (twin declaration of faith). What is obligatory is five prayers during the day and night. This establishes a relationship between a person and his Lord, in which a person finds peace, happiness and contentment, as he stands before his Lord and speaks to Him, and calls upon Him and converses with Him, and prostrates before Him, complains to Him of his worries and sorrows, and turns to Him at times of calamity. Whatever has been said to you about the prayer, nothing can really describe how great and important it is, and no one can appreciate it except the one who tastes its joy and spends his nights in prayer and fills his days with it. 79

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It is the delight of those who believe in the Oneness of God and the joy of the believers. Allaah has prescribed purification before the prayer, so that the body is cleansed of impurities and sins are washed away. For the Muslim does not wash any of his limbs but sins are washed away with the water, or with the last drop of water, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us. With regard to how the prayer is done, it involves standing, saying “Allaahu akbar (Allaah is Most Great)”, reciting Qur’aan, bowing and prostrating. All you have to do is go to an Islamic Centre in your country to see how the Muslims pray and learn about it. The fact that a person does not know Arabic does not affect his Islam, and it is not deprive him of the honour of belonging to the faith. How many people’s hearts are opened to Islam every day, who do not know even one letter of Arabic. There are thousands of Muslims in India, Pakistan, the Philippines and elsewhere who have memorized the Qur’aan by heart, but not one of them can hold a lengthy conversation in Arabic. That is because Allaah has made the Qur’aan easy, and has made it easy for people to memorize it, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And We have indeed made the Qur’aan easy to understand and remember; then is there any one who will remember (or receive admonition)?” [al-Qamar 54:17] In the prayer the Muslim must recite Soorat al-Faatihah in Arabic, so he has to learn it. If he is unable to do so but he knows one verse of it, he should repeat it seven times, 80

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which is the number of verses in Soorat al-Faatihah. If he is unable to do that then he should say: “Subhaan Allaah, wa’l-hamdu Lillaah, wa laa ilaaha ill-Allaah, wa Allaahu akbar, wa laa ilaaha ill-Allaah, wa laa hawla wa laa quwwata illa Billaah (Glory be to Allaah, praise be to Allaah, there is no god except Allaah, Allaah is Most Great, there is no god but Allaah, and there is no power and no strength except with Allaah).” See question no. 5410. The matter is easy, praise be to Allaah. How many people have learned to speak a language other than their own very well, even two or three languages, so how can they be unable to learn thirty or forty words that they need in their prayers? If the language was really an obstacle, you would not find millions of Muslims who are not Arabs, who perform the acts of worship with ease, praise be to Allaah. So hasten to enter Islam, for no one knows when his appointed time (i.e. death) will come. May Allaah save you and keep you safe from His wrath and punishment. All you have to do to enter this great religion is to say, “Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu wa Rasooluhu (I bear witness that there is no god except Allaah and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger),” and you will find people among your Muslim brothers who will help you to learn the prayer and other matters of Islam. Please also see the following questions: 219, 12376, 6389, 6706, 378, 2585, 20239, 10590, 4319 And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 81

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37653: A Christian woman wants to fast Question: I’m a christianity but I do not believe in my religion anymore,and i’m sorry for that. I believe in allaah and his prophet. Now I want to do the Rammadan,but I’m still christianity,can I do the rammadan now? I dont know how to be a muslim. I feel it in my heart but I think this is not enough?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We ask Allaah to open your heart to Islam. If you fast without entering Islam, you will not gain anything from it except hunger and thirst, because Allaah does not accept any acts of worship unless they are based on correct belief and sound religious commitment. The most important thing for you – and the most important thing overall – is to start with the right step, which is entering Islam. After that you can start to pray and fast, and read Qur’aan, and do all the acts of worship which will bring life and joy to your heart. It is not difficult for you to enter Islam, all you need to do is to utter the Shahaadatayn (the twin testimony of faith): Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan rasool-Allaah (I bear witness that there is no god except Allaah and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah). The fact that you feel in your heart that you are already Muslim is a good sign, but you have to take the last and 82

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most important step, which will bring you happiness in this world and in the Hereafter. If you do not believe in your religion – as you say in your question – then what is life worth if a person does not have a religion or values or a divine system by which to live? Do you think that the life of this world is no more than leisure, idle pursuits and satisfying desires, then it all comes to an end when you die? No way! For after death comes the reckoning, and after the reckoning comes either Paradise or Hell. So you must hasten to do that which will lead to your salvation. Do not wait or hesitate, for life passes quickly and no one knows when his life will come to an end and he will enter the first stage of the Hereafter, where regret will be of no avail, and a man will wish that he could return to this world so that he could believe and do righteous deeds. “Until, when death comes to one of them (those who join partners with Allaah), he says: ‘My Lord! Send me back, So that I may do good in that which I have left behind!’ No! It is but a word that he speaks; and behind them is Barzakh (a barrier) until the Day when they will be resurrected” [al-Mu’minoon 23:99-100 – interpretation of the meaning] “If you could but see when they will be held over the (Hell) Fire! They will say: ‘Would that we were but sent back (to the world)! Then we would not deny the Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, revelations, etc.) of our Lord, and we would be of the believers!’” 83

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[al-An’aam 6:27 – interpretation of the meaning] “But those who disbelieve (in the Oneness of Allaah — Islamic Monotheism), for them will be the fire of Hell. Neither will it have a complete killing effect on them so that they die nor shall its torment be lightened for them. Thus do We requite every disbeliever! Therein they will cry: ‘Our Lord! Bring us out, we shall do righteous good deeds, not (the evil deeds) that we used to do.’ (Allaah will reply:) ‘Did We not give you lives long enough, so that whosoever would receive admonition could receive it? And the warner came to you. So taste you (the evil of your deeds). For the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers) there is no helper.’” [Faatir 35:36-37 – interpretation of the meaning] We ask Allaah to guide you and to help you to do that which is good for you in this world and in the Hereafter. We are ready to answer any questions you may have in sha Allaah. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 9232: She wants to become Muslim and she is asking about the etiquette of entering the mosque Question: I am in love with a Muslim. We do plan to be married soon, as long as his parents are accepting of it. I plan to pronounce shahaadah soon, and begin the rituals of cleansing and prayer. My question is, what things can I do that will make me a good and virtuous wife to him? What manners should I have and what practices should I 84

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follow? What rules are there about women in the mosque? Also, how should I read the Holy Book?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We praise Allaah Who has lighted the path of truth for you and enabled you to become convinced of Islam which is the true religion. All you have to do now is to utter the twin testimony of faith (the Shahaadatayn) in order to set your affairs straight, and you will be granted divine support in this world and in the Hereafter. So hasten to take this step and I ask Allaah to make you steadfast in adhering to His religion. Praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the Worlds. Secondly: In order to be a righteous wife with whom Allaah is pleased, we advise you, after obeying Allaah, to obey your husband so long as he does not tell you to do anything wrong or sinful, for a wife’s obedience towards her husband is one of the most important principles of marriage propagated in Islam. It was narrated that Mu’aadh ibn Jabal (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “If I were to command anyone to prostrate to anyone else, I would have commanded women to prostrate to their husbands, because of the husband’s great rights. No woman can find the sweetness of faith until she fulfils her husband’s rights, even if he calls her to him when she is atop her camel.” Al-Haythami said: This was narrated in full by al-Bazzaar and in part by Ahmad, and the men of its isnaad are the men of saheeh. Majma’ al-Zawaa’id, 4/309 85

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Thirdly: After that you have to give up the bad customs that you used to engage in before your Islam, that go against Islam and its commandments. That includes tabarruj (wanton display), being unveiled and not wearing proper Islamic hijaab – if you are one of those who do not wear Islamic dress. You also have to give up such customs of the disbelievers as mixing with men, and making friends with men who are not your mahrams. You have to get used to Muslim customs and the commands of their religion which teaches that the Muslim woman is to be protected and not to wander about half naked in the marketplaces and places where there is free mixing with men, because that offends her husband’s honour. Fourthly: With regard to the way of life that you have to follow, that is by adhering to the commands enjoined by Allaah and by avoiding the things that Allaah has forbidden; that includes praying and fasting regularly and remembering Allaah in all situations. In all of that it will help if you read the Qur’aan and useful books which describe Islam and its teachings. Fifthly: With regard to the guidelines on women entering the mosque, they are as follows: 1 – She should not go out wearing perfume, adornment or make-up. This does not apply only to going out to the mosque, rather whenever she goes out of her house, it is haraam for her to go out wearing make up. Her purpose 86

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in going out of the house should be to pray to Allaah or to attend a lesson from which she can learn the rulings of her religion. It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Do not prevent the female slaves of Allaah from going to the mosques of Allaah, but let them go out not wearing perfume.” Narrated by Abu Dawood, 565; classed as saheeh by alAlbaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 529 2 – It is Sunnah for the Muslim, when he leaves his house and heads towards the mosque, to recite the du’aa’ for walking to the mosque: It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abbaas said: “… Then the muezzin gave the call to prayer, and he (the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)) came out, saying, ‘Allaahumma aj’al fi qalbi nooran wa fi lisaani nooran waj’al fi sam’i nooran waj’al fi basari nooran waj’al min khalfi nooran wa min amaami nooran waj’al min fawqi nooran wa min tahti nooran, Allaahummah a’tini nooran (O Allaah, place with my heart light, and upon my tongue light, and within my ears light and within my eyes light, and place behind me light and in front of me light and above me light and beneath me light, O Allaah, bestow upon me light).” Narrated by Muslim, 763. 3 – When he enters the mosque, he should enter with his right foot first, and say the words that were narrated from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): It was narrated that Abu Humayd or Abu Usayd said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When any one of you enters the mosque, 87

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let him say: Allaahumma iftah li abwaab rahmatika (O Allaah, open to me the gates of Your mercy), and when he leaves let him say, Allaahumma inni as’aluka min fadlika (O Allaah, I ask You of Your bounty).” Narrated by Muslim, 713 According to some reports, the words Bismillaah, Allaahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad (In the name of Allaah, O Allaah, send blessings upon Muhammad) are added at the beginning of each. See al-Tirmidhi, 314; Ibn Maajah, 771. Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah, 625 It was narrated that Haywah ibn Shurayh said: “I met ‘Uqbah ibn Muslim and said to him, ‘I heard that you narrated from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Amr ibn al-‘Aas that when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) entered the mosque, he would say, “A’oodhu Billaah il‘Azeem wa bi wajhihi’l-kareem wa sultaanihi’l-qadeem min al-shaytaan il-rajeem (O Allaah, I seek refuge in Your noble countenance and Your eternal authority from the accursed Shaytaan).”’ He said, ‘Is that all?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘And when he said that, the Shaytaan said, “He is protected from me for the whole day.”’” Narrated by Abu Dawood, 466; classed as saheeh by Shaykh al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 441. 4 – When the Muslim enters the mosque, he should not sit down until he has prayed two rak’ahs to “greet the mosque”. It was narrated from Abu Qutaadah al-Sulami that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When any one of you enters the mosque, let him pray two rak’ahs before he sits down.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 443; Muslim, 714 88

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Abu Dawood (455) narrated that ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded that mosques should be built in every neighbourhood, and that they should be cleaned and perfumed. Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 437. 5 – The mosque should be cleaned and perfumed by those who are able to do it: It was narrated from Abu Dharr that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The deeds of my ummah, both good and bad, were shown to me, and I found that among the best of its deeds was removing a harmful thing from the road, and I found among the worst of its deeds leaving phlegm in the mosque and not burying it.” Narrated by Muslim, 555. 6 – Not raising one’s voice in the mosque, even in reciting Qur’aan, because that may disturb one of the worshippers. It was narrated that Abu Sa’eed said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) went into i’tikaaf (seclusion or retreat for worship) in the mosque, and he heard them reciting Qur’aan in loud voices. He pulled back the curtain and said: “Each one of you is conversing with his Lord, so do not disturb one another and do not raise your voices above one another in reciting Qur’aan” – or he said, “in prayer”. Narrated by Abu Dawood, 1332; classed as saheeh by alAlbaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 1183. 7 – He should exit the mosque with the left foot first, and saying the du’aa’ narrated from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: 89

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“When any one of you enters the mosque, let him send blessings upon the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and say, Allaahumma iftah li abwaab rahmatika (O Allaah, open to me the gates of Your mercy). And when he leaves let him send blessings upon the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and say, Allaahumma i’simni min al-Shaytaan il-rajeem (O Allaah, protect me from the accursed Shaytaan). Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 773. This hadeeth was classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 515 Sixthly: With regard to reading Qur’aan, you should read it a lot, because for every letter that you read you will have ten hasanaat (good deeds). It is permissible to recite Qur’aan with or without wudoo’, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to remember Allaah in all situations. (Narrated by Muslim, 373). But it is better to do wudoo’ before reciting Qur’aan. It was narrated from Muhaajir ibn Qunfudh that he came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) whilst he was urinating and greeted him with salaam, but he did not return the greeting until he had done wudoo’. Then he apologized to him and said, “I did not want to mention Allaah when I was not in a state of purity.” Narrated by Abu Dawood, 17 – this version was narrated by him; Ibn Maajah, 350. Classed as saheeh by Shaykh al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 2472. But it is haraam for one who is junub (in a state of impurity following sexual activity) to recite Qur’aan. With regard to a menstruating woman, the correct view is that it is permissible for her to recite Qur’aan. See question no. 2564. 90

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All of that has to do with reciting Qur’aan without touching the Mus-haf. With regard to touching the Mushaf, that is only permissible for one who has wudoo, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “No one should touch the Qur’aan except one who is taahir (pure).” Narrated by Maalik in al-Muwatta’, 419; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 122. If the Muslim wants to read from the Mus-haf and he does not have wudoo’, he should hold the book with something in between, such as wearing gloves on his hands. Seventhly: It is Sunnah for him to be humble and think of the meaning of the verses that he is reading. He should ask about the meaning if he finds the words difficult to understand, so that he will increase in knowledge whilst reading. After that he should strive to act in accordance with what he has learned and apply the rulings of the Qur’aan. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 6581: Christian lady interested in Islam Question: For the last few years, I have been interested in Islam. I have no idea where to begin in further studies. I am a nearly 50 year old woman and am a bit put off by the retractions (seemingly) regarding women. How can I begin to enter the realms of Islam to study? I am open to learning. 91

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. How women are dealt with is something that varies from one culture to another. A woman is usually subjected to the teachings, systems and customs of her society, good and bad alike. Many nonIslamic social systems, customs and ways of life are unfair to women. Anyone who studies them will find that the purpose behind them is to make women a means for men’s enjoyment under the banner of freedom. This is something which goes against the true religion and is contrary to the dictates of common sense and wisdom. Is it wise or fair that a precious pearl should be shared by a number of people when one of them is able to keep it and look after it? Is it wise to uncover that which should be hidden merely for a few moments of fleeting pleasure? Is it wise to open the door to provocation of desires, free mixing and women uncovering their beauty so that men may commit immoral actions with them, which leads to the spread of disease and large numbers of illegitimate children and the mixing of lineages? Is it wise to burden women with work outside the home which results in them neglecting the house and being crowded together with men and neglecting their children, which they are not able to bear, mentally or physically? Look at this simple comparison between the situation of women in Islam and their situation in other systems and religions. Firstly: Islam liberated women from enslavement to human beings and to whims and desires; other religions and systems have subjugated women to the devil and to whims and desires. Secondly: Islam protects women’s honour and dignity; 92

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other religions and systems cheapen their honour and dignity. Thirdly: Islam makes spending on women an obligation so that their dignity may be preserved; other religions and systems make women a product to traded in, and they put too much pressure on women to spend on themselves and go out to work. Fourthly: Islam protects women when they are young and honours them when they are old; other religions and systems make that a burden on society. Fifthly: Islam protects women’s wealth, children and life, and organize her life in a proper manner; other religions and systems neglect all of that. So firstly: you should read the Book of Allaah (the Qur’aan) and study the commentaries on it (tafseer), such as the Tafseer of Ibn Katheer. [Translator’s note: this is now available in English, published by Darussalam, Riyadh] Then read Saheeh al-Bukhaari and Saheeh Muslim [also available in English]. Listen to Islamic tapes, especially those made by the shaykhs of Ahl al-Sunnah (Sunni shaykhs). Secondly: you should go to the nearest Sunni Islamic center to find out what programs they have for teaching women. Thirdly: you can benefit from the many Islamic sites on the Internet which present pure Islam and will be able to answer your questions, and you could write to some of the trustworthy Sunni Islamic institutions and ask them to send you books and magazines that will be of use to you, such as the al-Haramayn Institute and WAMY (World Association of Muslim Youth) – which has a women’s section. 93

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Fourthly: You can get to know some Muslim sisters who could help you and teach you that which will benefit you, because a woman is better able to make another woman understand than a man is. Fifthly: Beware of being deceived by some of those who claim to be Muslims but who in fact have nothing to do with Islam, like the Qadianis (also known as Ahmadis), Shi’ah, Baha’is and Sufis. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 9020: Accusing the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) of being mentally ill Question: Recently, I read an article concerning Prophet Muhammed’s validity. The article explained Prophet Muhammed was insane and suffering from a terribe psychological problem. Is this true? I think it is not, but a majority of people believe so. Is there any way YOU can defend Prophet Muhammed as being a true prophet?. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: The Muslim must realize that there is a difference between defending Islam before Muslims, which is done by quoting from the Qur’aan and Sunnah and other reliable sources, and defending Islam before non-Muslims who do not 94

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believe in the sources of sharee’ah, so we have to address them on the basis of reason and common sense. In order to answer this question we should realize that such things could not be said by a Muslim who believes in the sharee’ah of Islam, and that such words undoubtedly constitute kufr and heresy. Based on that, it is obvious that the people who said this are not Muslims and do not believe in sharee’ah, rather they are kaafirs who do not believe in Allaah or in the religion of Islam. So we should debate with them on the basis of reason, therefore we say to them the following: This claim can only come from one who hates and is jealous of the religion of Islam, for jealousy and hatred only come to a person when he sees an obvious blessing, which gives rise to hatred and envy in his heart. When those who came up with this claim saw the Muslims and the obvious blessings that they enjoy such as peace of mind and tranquility of heart, and the rare occurrence among the Muslims of evils such as adultery and alcohol consumption, and the low numbers of Muslims afflicted by physical and mental diseases which are rampant among them (the non-Muslims), such as AIDS and other illnesses, and when they saw the glowing history of the Muslims and how they were masters of the world when they adhered to Islam, and other manifest blessings to which everyone attests, and they saw how many people were becoming Muslim every day throughout the world, that upset them and they feared the spread of Islam, but they could not resist it except by using the feeble trick of slander. Intelligent people agree that anyone who makes a claim has to produce evidence to confirm the truth of what he is saying, otherwise it is to be rejected and thrown back in his face. Where is the proof of their sinister claims? 95

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If an intelligent man is told that some person managed to convince many people, numbering in the billions, of a specific idea, and that they followed him in that, or that a man on his own was able to succeed in the elections – for example – or to convince the people to vote for him, this intelligent man would attest that this person was brilliant and intelligent and wise. So how about out Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) – may my father and mother be sacrificed for him – whom the Arabs and non-Arabs followed, whose message of Islam spread everywhere and whose message with which Allaah sent him has remained strong until our own times, facts which are attested by everyone? Even those who make these sinister claims believe this deep in their hearts, but their envy and hatred have made them blind. Many of the enemies of Islam, such as the Orientalists who study Islam, affirm the virtues of Islam and the status of our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and they testify that he was wise and perfect. When enemies testify to the virtues of their opponent, this carries great weight. The Muslim should not pay any attention to these people with ulterior motives who lay in wait to attack Islam and its followers, and try to undermine Islam. Islam is not affected by the slurs of such people or by their praise either. And Allaah is the Guide to the Straight Path. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 6401: His mother doesn’t practise Islam Question: My mother was raised as a Christian and does use liqueur 96

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on occasion discuss it with her but she will not refrain from this practice. Besides this many other unislamic practices are also done, for instance all food stuff is not halaal with the result these same utensils are used to prepare food for me i am under the impression that this is not permissible. Now I am considering leaving home since this is not something i am in favour of. Also I intend to leave country some time in future (IN-SHA ALLAH) because i cannot go for namaaz as regularly as i must. In short i want to live as a Muslim but as I live in a westernized country it is difficult to live as a Muslim should. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. If your mother is a Christian then you have to call her to Islam with wisdom and beautiful preaching. Tell her about the beauties of Islam and its characteristics and beliefs. Explain to her the falseness of the Christian belief in the divinity of Jesus (peace be upon him). You can also refer to the questions in the Da’wah to Non-Muslims section of this website, so that you can convince her, as well as reading some books which speak of the falseness of Christian doctrines. But if your mother is a Muslim, then you have to call her to give up sin and to repent from it, especially drinking alcohol. Tell her the evidence from the Qur’aan and Sunnah which proves that it is haraam, and that when a command comes from Allaah or His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), the believer has to hear and obey, and hasten to follow the command even if that is contrary to his own whims and desires. Make her fear Allaah and His punishment in this world and in the Hereafter. 97

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You have to be gentle and kind to her, tell her that you are eager that she should be guided and saved from Hell. Perhaps this will be the means of guiding her to the truth. With regard to the cooking utensils with which haraam foods are cooked, if there are others available then it is preferable for you to eat from those. But if no others are available, then you can wash them with water and then eat from them. It was narrated that Abu Tha’labah al-Khushani (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, I live in the land of the People of the Book. Please advise me with regard to their vessels.’ He said, ‘Do not eat from them, unless you cannot find anything else, in which case wash them and eat from them.’” (Agreed upon. Buloogh al-Maraam, p. 23, hadeeth no. 24). With regard to your thinking of leaving home or leaving your country, that may be better if you know that your family will not respond to your words and if staying with them will damage your religious commitment in such a way that you cannot do what Allaah commands. But if you know or you think it most likely that after you call them to Allaah they will respond, then you must stay with them. Imam al-Bukhaari included a chapter in his Saheeh entitled: Baab al-Inbisaat ila’l-Naas (Chapter on being friendly towards people). Ibn Mas’ood said: “Mix with people but beware of damaging your religious commitment.” (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, 5/2270). But if you know from your experience with your family 98

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that this will be futile, then leave them and go and live in a place where you can practice the rituals of Islam. We ask Allaah to make you steadfast in your religious commitment and to keep you safe. We ask Him to guide your mother and all your family to His religion so that the religion of Allaah will be the dearest thing to you all. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 7182: References (video and audio tapes and books) for non-Muslims Question: In our city, we started a new project called “Islamic Information Center”. The main objective of this project is to intoduce Islam for non-muslims. We are trying now to get some information regarding the best materials (Dawa kit) that are suitable for this aim. We started our plan by getting these information as a first step and In Shaa Allah we will follow it by getting many copies of these (Dawa kit) and distribute them in the bublic libraries in our city and so on. We think that the Dawa Kit should consist of the following: a book or at most 2 books, one or two audio tapes, one or two video tapes.So, my questions now are: To your best knowledge: What is/are the best book(s) “remember: for nonmuslims not muslims”? “not more than 2” What is/are the best audio tape(s)? “not more than 2” What is/are the best video tape(s)? “not more than 2” I think that the material should be: 99

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a) attractive, b) not very long, breif. c) simple but not weak. I would be grateful if you answered the above questions. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 1 – Books which we recommend for non-Muslims: 1. Kayfa tadkhul fi’l-Islam (How to enter Islam) by Muhammad Sulaymaan al-Ashqar 2. Laa tahzan (Do not grieve?) by Shaykh ‘Aa’id al-Qarani 2 – Audio tapes which we recommend for non-Muslims: 1. Da’wah li’l-Ta’ammul (Invitation to think) by Shaykh Ali al-Qarani. 3 – Video tapes which we recommend: 1. Innahu’l-Haqq (It is truth) by Shaykh ‘Abd al-Majeed al-Zandaani 2. The debates of Ahmad Deedat the following books, available in English, may also be suitable: For the Seeker of Truth Lessons for New Muslims (A package published by Darussalaam, Riyadh). May Allaah help you to do that which He loves and which pleases Him. 100

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And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 2584: Relations with women according to Islam Question: I am in the processing of becoming a truly practicing Musalman and wonder what is said regarding your life previous to the full integration of Islam. I wonder whether any experiences that I have had would limit me from becoming a follower of the straigth path to Allah? Please forgive my explicitness...but since men and women are not allowed to engage in full-blown relationships, how do I resolve the conflict that prior to it’s integration in my life, I have had different experiences and now have read repeatedly that it is forbidden...how can I possibly reconcile the two dichotomous notions? I recognize that you do receive many questions, please accept my sincere thanks for having this site, regardless of whether I receive an answer or not. May peace be with you...:) Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We cannot conceal our joy and pleasure at the intention expressed in your question of embracing the true religion, Islam. The confusion and hesitation that you describe are quite understandable, because when a person has been indulging in forbidden relationships and then wishes to move to a religion of purity and chastity, it is natural to feel that his own “nafs” (desires) will defeat him and that 101

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he will not be able to do what Islam requires of him in the way of purity and chastity. But we will tell you some things here which we hope will help you to overcome any difficulty that you may be fearing and give a true picture of the situation. When a person follows the true religion, it is expected to have a far-reaching effect on his personality and behaviour, so that it re-forms him and gives him a fresh start and a new direction in life, completely different from the way he was during his “jaahiliyyah” (days of ignorance before his Islam). This radical change will produce morals and values that were not there before, which will purify his heart and fill him with a sense of chastity, so that the new Muslim looks with revulsion and disgust both at his own former deeds and at the ignorant world of promiscuity, infidelity, nakedness and utter corruption that exists in the society around him. He will come back to the sound nature (fitrah – the natural state of man) and purity of heart of which Shaytaan had robbed him during the days when he was a kaafir and sinner. This new direction in life is undertaken freely, by choice, and is accompanied by contentment and acceptance stemming from his total submission to the commands and prohibitions of Allaah, Who revealed this religion of Islam with all its laws. We have two sources of proof to support what we say here, one from the sharee’ah and one from history. The shar’i evidence is to be found in numerous places in the Qur’aan, for example (interpretation of the meanings): “Is he who was dead (without Faith by ignorance and by disbelief) and We gave him life (by knowledge and by faith) and set for him a light (of Belief) whereby he can walk amongst men, like him who is in the darkness (of disbelief, polytheism and hypocrisy) from which he can never come out?…” [al-An’aam 6:122] 102

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“And those who invoke not any other god along with Allaah, nor kill such life as Allah has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse – and whoever does this shall receive the punishment. The torment will be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace, Except those who repent and believe, and do righteous deeds, for those, Allaah will change their sins into good deeds, and Allaah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” [al-Furqaan 25:68-70] Concerning the phrase “Allaah will change their sins into good deeds” the mufassireen (commentators) said: their evil deeds will be replaced by good deeds. ‘Ali ibn Abi Talhah reported that Ibn ‘Abbaas said: “These are the believers, who before they believed did evil deeds, but Allaah wanted them to do something else, so He changed their bad deeds into good deeds…” ‘Ataa’ ibn Abi Rabaah said: “This is in this world: a man may be doing evil but then Allaah replaces it with good.” Sa’eed ibn Jubayr said: “Allaah changed them from worshippers of idols into worshippers of the Most Merciful, and changed them from those who fight the Muslims into those who fight the mushrikeen (polytheists), and from those who marry mushrik women into those who marry believing women.” Al-Hasan alBasri said: “Allaah changed them from evil deeds to good deeds, from shirk (polytheism) to ikhlaas (purity of faith), from promiscuity to chastity, from kufr to Islam.” This is the view of Abu ‘Aaliyah, Qutaadah and a group of others. (Ibn Katheer, Tafseer al-Qur’aan al-‘Azeem). The historical evidence includes a number of stories of Muslims who entered Islam after having been kuffaar 103

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(disbelievers), and how they changed and became righteous. Among these stories is the following: “There was a (Muslim) man called Marthad ibn Abi Marthad who used to smuggle Muslim prisoners-of-war from Makkah (which was the territory of the mushrikeen) to Madeenah (which was the territory of the Muslims). There was also a woman in Makkah, called ‘Anaaq, who was a prostitute. She had been a friend of Marthad’s (before he became Muslim). Marthad had promised to take one of the prisoners from Makkah to Madeenah. He said: “I came to the shade of one of the gardens of Makkah on a moonlit night, then ‘Anaaq came and saw my shadow by the garden. When she reached me, she recognized me and said: ‘Marthad?’ I said, ‘Marthad.’ She said: ‘Welcome! Stay with us tonight.’ I said, ‘O ‘Anaaq, Allaah has forbidden zinaa (unlawful sexual relations).’ She called out, ‘O people of the camp! This man is stealing away your prisoners!’ (i.e., she wanted to take revenge on him because he refused to have unlawful relations with her, so she called the mushrikeen to come and seize him). Eight men pursued me (and he described how Allaah saved him from them).” This event was the reason for the revelation of the aayah (interpretation of the meaning): “Let no man guilty of adultery or fornication marry any but a woman similarly guilty, or an Unbeliever; nor let any but such a man or an Unbeliever marry such a woman; to the Believers such a thing is forbidden.” [alNoor 24:3 – Yusuf ‘Ali’s translation] (Reported and classed as hasan by al-Tirmidhi, 3101). The reason for telling this story is that it illustrates how this man changed after he embraced Islam, and refused to commit the haraam deed with which he was tempted. Another story describes a woman who embraced Islam and became righteous: ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Maghfal reported that there was a woman 104

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who had been a prostitute during the days of ignorance (before Islam). A man passed by her, or she passed by him, and he touched her. She said: “Stop it! (Mah! A word connoting a rebuke or denunciation). Allaah has done away with shirk and had brought Islam.” So he left her alone and went away. (Reported by al-Haakim, who said this hadeeth is saheeh according to the conditions of Muslim, although they did not report it). If you enter Islam and become a truly practising Muslim, adhering to this pure sharee’ah, worshipping Allaah as He wants to be worshipped, obeying His commands and heeding His prohibitions, then in sha Allaah you will not encounter or suffer the difficulties you refer to in your question. Moreover, you will have the means of keeping chaste, such as marriage, which will help you to refrain from doing haraam deeds; marriage is enjoined by this sharee’ah. The one who chooses a pure and clean way has no need to enter the mire (of illicit relationships). We ask Allaah to guide you and make things easy for you, and to keep evil away from you. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 10001: The status of the family in Islam Question: What does Islam teach about the family and the roles of men , women and Children— Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 105

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Before we find out about the role of Islam in organizing and protecting the family, we should first find out what the situation of the family was before Islam, and what it is in the west in modern times. Before Islam, the family was based on mistreatment and oppression. All affairs were controlled only by men or in other words, the males, and women and girls were oppressed and humiliated. An example of that is that if a man died and left behind a wife, his son by another wife had the right to marry her and control her life, or to prevent her from getting married. Men were the only ones who could inherit; women and children had no share. They viewed women, whether they were mothers, daughters or sisters, as a source of shame, because they could be taken as prisoners, thus bringing shame upon the family. Hence a man would bury his infant daughter alive, as is referred to in the Qur ’aan, where Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And when the news of (the birth of) a female (child) is brought to any of them, his face becomes dark, and he is filled with inward grief! He hides himself from the people because of the evil of that whereof he has been informed. Shall he keep her with dishonour or bury her in the earth? Certainly, evil is their decision” [al-Nahl 16:58] The family in the broader sense, i.e., the tribe, was based on supporting one another in all things, even in wrongdoing. When Islam came, it did away with all that and established justice, giving each person his or her rights, even nursing infants, and even the miscarried foetus who was to be respected and prayed for (i.e., given a proper funeral). 106

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When you examine the family in the west today you will find that families are disintegrating and the parents cannot control their children, whether intellectually or morally. The son has the right to go wherever he wants and do whatever he wants; the daughter has the right to sit with whoever she wants and sleep with whoever she wants, all in the name of freedom and rights. And what is the result? Broken families, children born outside marriage, (elderly) mothers and fathers who are not looked after. As some wise men have said, if you want to know the true nature of these people, go to the prisons and the hospitals and seniors’ homes, for children do not remember their parents except on holidays and special occasions. The point is that among non-Muslims the institution of family is destroyed. When Islam came it paid a great deal of attention to the establishment of strong families and protecting them from things that could harm them, and preserving family ties whilst giving each member of the family an important role in life. Islam honoured women, whether as mothers, daughters or sisters. It honoured women as mothers. It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: A man came to the Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and said, “O Messenger of Allaah, who among people is most deserving of my good company?” He said, “Your mother.” He asked, “Then who?” He said, “Your mother.” He asked, “Then who?” He said, “Your mother.” He asked, “Then who?” He said, “Then your father.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5626; Muslim, 2548) Islam honours women as daughters. It was narrated from Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever has three daughters or three sisters, or two daughters or 107

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two sisters, and takes good care of them and fears Allaah with regard to them, will enter Paradise.” (Narrated by Ibn Hibbaan in his Saheeh, 2/190) And Islam honours women as wives. It was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah said: the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best of you are those who are best to their wives, and I am the best of you to my wives.” (Narrated and classed as hasan by alTirmidhi, 3895). Islam gave women their rights of inheritance and other rights. It gave women rights like those of men in many spheres. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Women are the twin halves of men.” (Narrated by Abu Dawood in his Sunan, 236, from the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 216). Islam encourages men to treat their wives well, and gives women the freedom to choose their husbands; it gives women much of the responsibility for raising the children. Islam gives fathers and mothers a great deal of responsibility for raising their children. It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Umar heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say, “Each of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock. The leader is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock. The man is the shepherd of his family and he is responsible for his flock. The woman is the shepherd of her husband’s household and is responsible for her flock. The servant is a shepherd of his master’s wealth and is responsible for his flock.” He said, I heard this from the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 853; Muslim, 1829) Islam paid a great deal attention to implanting the principle 108

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of respect for fathers and mothers, taking care of them and obeying their commands until death. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour”[al-Isra’ 17:23] Islam protects the honour, chastity, purity and lineage of the family, so it encourages marriage and forbids free mixing of men and women. Islam gives each family member an important role to play. So fathers and mothers take care of the children and give them an Islamic upbringing; children are to listen and obey, and respect the rights of fathers and mothers, on a basis of love and respect. Even our enemies have borne witness to the strength of family ties among the Muslims. And Allaah knows best.Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 14418: How to call a Christian to Islam Question: I am inviting someone to islam, i chat to him through the internet.. he lives in brazil and he is 18 years old..i already told him some stuff about islam.. but it appears that he is so religious, and it appears that he doesn’t want to change to islam that easily.. he is christian(prostant),, can u plz tell me a good way to invite him to islam Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Before replying to this question, I would like to say how impressed I am with my brother’s concern to call people 109

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to Allaah, using the developments in computer science to further the mission of the Prophets and Messengers (peace be upon them). May Allaah reward him with the best reward, and record him among His righteous slaves. With regard to the question you asked: The best way to call this man and everyone else is that which is indicated in the Qur’aan, where Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And argue not with the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians), unless it be in (a way) that is better (with good words and in good manner, inviting them to Islamic Monotheism with His Verses)” [al-‘Ankaboot 29:46] “Invite (mankind, O Muhammad) to the way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Revelation and the Qur’aan) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better” [al-Nahl 16:125] And the command which Allaah issued to His Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) when He said (interpretation of the meaning): “Say (O Muhammad): O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians): Come to a word that is just between us and you, that we worship none but Allaah (Alone), and that we associate no partners with Him, and that none of us shall take others as lords besides Allaah” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:64] - Tell him about the innate nature of man (fitrah) which predisposes man to believe in Tawheed or the Oneness of Allaah, and how the doctrine of trinity contradicts that innate human nature and common sense. 110

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- Explain to him the status that ‘Eesa (Jesus – peace be upon him) and his mother have among the Muslims, and that he is the slave of Allaah and His Messenger, and His Word which He bestowed upon Maryam (Mary), and a soul created by Him. - Explain to him that the religion of Allaah is the same from Adam to Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and that it is Islam. Tell him that the differences are in the laws and that Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is the Seal of the Prophets (i.e., the last of them) and that his Book abrogates the rulings which came before and confirms the true beliefs and stories that were mentioned in them. - Answer his questions calmly, and provide him, if necessary, with some of the books and tapes by Shaykh Ahmad Deedaat. Answered by Shaykh Dr. ‘Abd al-Rahmaan al-Qaadi, Imam Muhammad ibn Sa’ood University, al-Qaseem Campus You could also send him Question No. 2690, entitled A serious dialogue with a Christian from this site. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 10469: Questions from a confused Christian Question: I read in the newspaper that 15% of the Koran is about Jesus Christ; and I also read in the English version of Koran that Mohammad believe in Christ, Abraham, The prophets and their writings which preceded Koran. If so, why does the Koran accept some doctrines of the bible, 111

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like the miracles of Christ, his sinlessness, being a prophet, etc. and contradict many of its doctrines like the deity of Christ as written in Isa.9:6 & John 1:1, 3:16, and the atonement both in the old and new testaments? If the Koran is without error, why are there sects in Islam namely, shuhite& shiite respectively? Why does the Koran allows polygamy, while the Bible is against it as written in Gen. 2:24 & Matt. 19:5 ? My soul needs THE TRUTH. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: Allaah often mentions the Messiah ‘Eesa ibn Maryam (Jesus son of Mary) in His Book the Qur’aan for a number of reasons, including the following: 1. He is one of His Prophets, indeed he is one of the Messengers of strong will whom He sent to His creation and His slaves. It is obligatory to believe in him as in all the other Prophets, as enjoined by Allaah in the verse (interpretation of the meaning): “Say (O Muslims): We believe in Allaah and that which has been sent down to us and that which has been sent down to Ibraaheem (Abraham), Ismaa’eel (Ishmael), Ishaaq (Isaac), Ya’qoob (Jacob), and to Al-Asbaat [the offspring of the twelve sons of Ya’qoob (Jacob)], and that which has been given to Moosa (Moses) and ‘Eesa (Jesus), and that which has been given to the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we have submitted (in Islam)” [al-Baqarah 2:36] 112

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2. The first people whom we should be concerned about when calling others to Islam are the People of the Book, i.e., the Jews and the Christians, because they are the closest of later nations to whom the later Messengers were sent. Both the Jews and the Christians knew of the coming of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and his attributes were written in their books, the Tawraat (Torah) and Injeel (Gospel). So they should not deny what they find in their books and they should hasten to believe in him, because they already believe in the Messengers who came before him, unlike other nations who worshipped idols. Because they did not believe in the Last Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) as they were enjoined to do, they had to be refuted and shown how they had distorted the message of divine Oneness (Tawheed). This is why they are frequently mentioned in the verses of the Qur’aan. 3. Tawheed (the Oneness of God) is the basic principle upon which everything else, both religious and worldly affairs, is to be built; through Tawheed people will be saved from Hell and admitted to Paradise. This means affirming that Allaah is One. We see that the Jews and Christians differed concerning ‘Eesa ibn Maryam. The Jews said that he was a charlatan who told lies about God, so he had to be killed. The Christians differed from them greatly; some of them said that he was God, and some of them said that he was the son of God, but was one with Him in the Trinity, so that outwardly he appeared to be the son of God but he was in fact God. And some of them said that he was the third person of the Trinity which is a rejection of Tawheed. Others said that he was a Messenger from God and was human like the rest of mankind, but that Allaah singled him out to perform miracles in order to establish proof against people. The last group are the ones who were right. So it was essential to explain the matter and describe ‘Eesa in befitting terms. As with all 113

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the other Prophets and Messengers, it is not inappropriate to say that he was a human being, created from clay, whom Allaah chose from among all of mankind to be created without a father, as a manifestation of the power of Allaah to create a man outside the usual means. The likeness of ‘Eesa before Allaah is like Adam, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, the likeness of ‘Eesa (Jesus) before Allaah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: ‘Be!’ — and he was” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:59] This is the correct belief concerning the creation of the Prophet of Allaah ‘Eesa, which was a miracle for all the people to see. But the miracle of Adam’s creation is greater. For ‘Eesa (peace be upon him) was created without a father, but Adam was created without a father or a mother, and this is more expressive of the power of Allaah to create; it is more miraculous than the creation of ‘Eesa (peace be upon him). For all these reasons and others, it was essential to explain the issue of ‘Eesa (peace be upon him) and put matters straight. In conclusion, the miracles which Allaah gave to ‘Eesa (peace be upon him) were just like the miracles of all the other Prophets, to prove that he was speaking the truth and that he was truly a Messenger from Allaah. But those who distorted the religion confused the matter for the simple-minded people and used his miracles as a justification to say that he was the son of God or that he was God. All of that is a distortion of the teachings and message of the Messiah (peace be upon him). If everyone who follows a Prophet were to take the 114

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miracles which Allaah bestowed upon him as a sign that he was a god, then all the Prophets would be gods and each Prophet would be different from the others. For the mountains glorified Allaah along with Dawood (David – peace be upon him), but they did not do so with ‘Eesa. The sea was parted for Moosa (Moses – peace be upon him) and he spoke with his Lord and his Lord spoke with him, so he was known as Kaleem-Allaah (the one who spoke with Allaah), but this did not happen to ‘Eesa (peace be upon him). Allaah flooded the earth in response to the supplication of Nooh (Noah – peace be upon him) and that did not happen to ‘Eesa (peace be upon him). Allaah singled out Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to speak to him and to protect his miracle from being lost or distorted; he alone was sent to all of mankind, and he was given miracles that were not given to ‘Eesa. So how could that be taken to mean that they were all gods? Secondly: With regard to the view that if the Qur’aan were not distorted there would not be all these many sects such as the Shi’ah and other groups. The answer to that is that the Qur’aan cannot force people to choose the right path, because the Qur’aan is simply guidance (and it is up to people to choose). Allaah has warned us about these sects and groups, and He has forbidden us to imitate the nations who became divided in religious matters. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “and be not of AlMushrikoon (the polytheists, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allaah). Of those who split up their religion (i.e. who left the true Islamic Monotheism), and became sects, [i.e. they 115

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invented new things in the religion (Bid‘ah), and followed their vain desires], each sect rejoicing in that which is with it” [al-Room 30:31-32] “And be not as those who divided and differed among themselves after the clear proofs had come to them. It is they for whom there is an awful torment” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:105] Allaah has commanded them to adhere to His Book and to follow the Sunnah (way, path) of His Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), as He says (interpretation of the meanings): “And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allaah (i.e. this Qur’aan), and be not divided among yourselves, and remember Allaah’s Favour on you, for you were enemies one to another but He joined your hearts together, so that, by His Grace, you became brethren (in Islamic Faith), and you were on the brink of a pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus Allaah makes His Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.,) clear to you, that you may be guided” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:103] “O you who believe! Make not (a decision) in advance before Allaah and His Messenger, and fear Allaah. Verily, Allaah is AllHearing, AllKnowing” [al-Hujuraat 49:1] i.e., do not say or do anything that goes against the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). What is meant here is that Allaah forbade the people to 116

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split into various groups, and He commanded them to be united, but they followed their own whims and desires, and they cast the Book of Allaah behind their backs, and if they were confused about a verse from the Book of Allaah, they did not refer to the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in order to understand it, rather they let their own opinion and corrupt reasoning be the judge. All of that is not from the Qur’aan and not from the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Thirdly: With regard to the question about plural marriage in Islam and its being forbidden in the New Testament, it should be noted that Allaah gave each Messenger his own laws and path. Allaah enjoined Tawheed (belief in the Oneness of Allaah) upon every single Prophet whom He sent, but the laws varied and some of them abrogated others. Some things that were permissible at the time of Adam (peace be upon him) were abrogated at the time of Nooh (peace be upon him). The laws that existed at the time of Moosa (Moses – peace be upon him) were partially abrogated at the time of ‘Eesa (Jesus – peace be upon him), as Allaah tells us (interpretation of the meaning): “To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way” [al-Maa’idah 5:48] So once this is understood, we will realize that plural marriage did not exist only in the law of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), rather it existed in the laws of all the previous Prophets. For example, Ya’qoob (Jabob – peace be upon him) had two 117

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wives and was married to two sisters at the same time, according to the Old Testament, as it says in the Book of Genesis 29:15-35. The father of the Prophets, Ibraaheem (Abraham – peace be upon him) was also married to two women, Haajar (Hagar) and Saara (Sarah). The Old Testament mentions that the Prophet of Allaah Dawood (David) had seventy or ninety-nine wives, and Sulaymaan (Solomon) had one hundred wives. These and other examples demonstrate that each of the Prophets implemented the laws that Allaah had prescribed. Plural marriage is not only for this ummah (nation – i.e., the Muslims). The fact that the Christians do not allow it may be for two reasons: 1 – This is one of the laws of Allaah which was binding before the time of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) 2 – They introduced their own innovation and went to extremes in this matter, as in the case of monasticism which they invented and which was not prescribed for them, but they sought to earn the pleasure of Allaah thereby. We ask Allaah to guide you and to help you find the true religion, which is Islam, and the path of the Prophet of Mercy (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) according to the understanding of his noble Companions. And Allaah is the Guide to the Straight Path. Islam Q&A (www.islam-qa.com) 31796: She wants to become Muslim but her mother and grandmother are opposed to the idea Question: I have been contemplating Islam since I was 11. I am 118

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now 14 and I am certain that is what I want in life. I have learnt all the words of Salat and Al-Fatihah and try to practise them but I get confused with the prayer positions.I have also chosen an Islamic name for myself. I have told my Mother about my beliefs but she is catholic so is against me becoming Muslim. I have no Muslim friends so there is no one to advise me. Mum says I have to wait until I am 16 and in the meantime go to church etc. I know I am ready to embrace Islam but everytime I mention it, my Granny who I also live with says I am cause trouble and that they don’t belong in England. This upsets meand I do not want to shout at her because I know being disrespectful is very un-Islamic. I want to admit my beliefs openly to my friends but Gran says people will treat me different and make me an outcast. I thought about becoming Muslim in secret but I can’t get to a mosque alone and would not be allowed to wear Hijab or Pray 5 times a day because of my school. I do not know what to do. Please help!!! Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Your question this morning brought us good news and made us very happy. Praise be to Allaah for what we have read in your question. We understand the difficulties that you are facing and how you feel. We will try to offer you some solutions to the problems you are facing. We are impressed by your learning all the words of the prayer and of al-Faatihah even though your language is English, and by your knowing Allaah since the age of eleven and your becoming more convinced and certain of Islam after three years, now that you are fourteen. We tell you the following, and Allaah is the Source of strength: When a person believes in something, he will be prepared 119

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to make sacrifices for its sake, so how about if this thing is Tawheed or belief in Allaah Alone, worshipping Him alone, following His Messenger and obeying His commands? Undoubtedly in this case the sacrifices will be even greater. The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us that Paradise is surrounded with obstacles, and what that means is that there is no way for us to reach Paradise except by overcoming obstacles and putting up with difficulties. For the reward of Allaah is precious and its blessings are immense and never-ending, and life there is eternal and its joys and pleasures will never cease. So the true Muslim will be prepared to sacrifice many things in this transient, passing world for the sake of that blessing; he will be prepared to put up with the insults and slander of people, with their criticism and mockery, for the sake of attaining that blessing. There is something else good about this matter, which is that the more a person is harassed and bears it with patience, the more his reward will increase and the higher he will rise in status before the Lord of the Worlds; indeed, his faith may increase and grow stronger, so that he will enjoy bearing this bitterness with patience for the sake of earning Allaah’s pleasure. The sweetness of striving to please the Lord cancels out the bitterness of people’s anger, insults and criticism. If the harm he faces is just some words of mockery or criticism that he heard, what is wrong with his putting up with that in order to earn the pleasure of the Lord and His reward? In all of that he believes in the promise of Allaah, as He said in his holy Book (interpretation of the meaning): “So be patient. Surely, the (good) end is for the Muttaqoon (the pious)” [Hood 11:49] 120

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He knows that patience can only be achieved by the help of Allaah, so he asks Him to help him and make him steadfast. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And endure you patiently (O Muhammad), your patience is not but from Allaah” [al-Nahl 16:127] He is prepared to announce the truth before people, regardless of who approves and who rejects that. If they reject it, he turns away from them and ignores them, as Allaah said to His Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) (interpretation of the meanings): “Therefore proclaim openly (Allaah’s Message Islamic Monotheism) that which you are commanded, and turn away from AlMushrikoon (polytheists, idolaters, and disbelievers)” [al-Hijr 15:94] “and turn away from the foolish” [al-A’raaf 7:199] Hurtful words from relatives are difficult to bear, worse than a blow from a weapon, but that will become insignificant for one who bears in mind the greatness of Allaah and His reward, and he will continue on his path without turning away or hesitating. Having explained this, we will now answer your question with the following points: 1 – You have done well by not raising your voice to your grandmother, because respecting parents and grandparents is part of Islam. 2 – Try to resist going to the church as much as you can, 121

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because it is a place where the signs of Allaah are rejected and shirk (association of others with Allaah) is proclaimed and a false religion is practiced openly. Since you are female, you are not obliged to go to the mosque as men are, so you will not be falling short if you do not go to the mosque, because the best place for a woman to pray is in her own house. 3 – Try as much as you can to wear hijaab, and put up with insults for the sake of Allaah. Be patient in praying the five daily prayers on time, knowing that they do not all coincide with the time you must be in school. If you pray Fajr after dawn comes, then you go to school, you will be able to pray Zuhr at school before the time for ‘Asr comes. You could find the time for that in a break between classes or at lunchtime, or after coming home. It is important to pray Zuhr after the sun has passed its zenith and before the time for ‘Asr comes. 4 – If you treat people kindly, you will win them over in the end and you will not be rejected, in sha Allaah. 5 – Do not delay entering Islam, do not wait a moment longer. For you do not know when death will come. So utter the words of the Shahaadatayn (the twin declaration of faith) and start praying. You will get used to the number of rak’ahs and the times of prayer, the words to say and how to do it as time goes by, and this will dispel the confusion that you mention in your question. So long as you are prepared to enter Islam, you do not – praise be to Allaah – need the approval of your mother or grandmother, or anyone else, because Allaah has commanded you to follow His religion: “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85] 122

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6 – Look for Muslim sisters with whom you can make friends and be in touch, so that they can help you to learn the religion and remain steadfast in following it. There follows the telephone number of al-Muntada al-Islami in London, so you can call them and ask about the times of women’s classes; this may be a starting point for you, since you live in the U.K. [44-207-7369060] Finally, we want to say again how happy we were to read your question, and we give you the glad tidings of a happy life and good future in the shade of the pure monotheistic religion of Islam. We are prepared to help you as much as we can. May Allaah help us and you to do that which He loves and which pleases Him. And Allaah is the Guide to the Straight Path. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 12734: How can she tell her non-Muslim mother that her husband is going to take a second wife? Question: what is the best way to tell my non muslim mother, who is very critical of islam, that my husband is about to take on another wife? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. There is nothing wrong with you happening to mention 123

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to your mother whilst you are talking to her that your husband is thinking of taking a second wife, and telling her that he has valid reasons for doing so, such as not having any children from you, or that he is not satisfied with one wife, and so on. That will be like an introduction for her if she knows. But do not tell her about the matter now, less that open the door to problems for you that you can do without. If she finds out about that in the future, then you can explain to her, one way or another, that Islam is the religion of justice and does not approve of injustice on anyone’s part, and that in a plural marriage there are many great benefits which the countries which claim to be civilized cannot attain. (See question no. 12528). Even if she is not convinced at first, she will become convinced as the days and years go by. But you should not express too many objections about this matter in front of her, because by doing so you will provoke her to criticize Islam. Rather you have to show her that you accept this and approve of it, and show her that it is not affecting your relationship with your husband. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 13810: A Christian woman asks about the Prophet’s birthday and what it means to the Muslims Question: What is the significance of the Prophet’s Birthday and when and how is it celebrated? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 124

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Firstly, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is the Messenger of Allaah to all of mankind, the one through whom Allaah leads people from darkness into light, from misguidance to guidance. Please see question no. 11575. Perhaps this question is the start of your research into the religion of Islam and your attempt to learn more and read widely about it. Try to find a translation of the meanings of the Qur’aan so that you can learn more about this pure monotheistic religion. No doubt our joy will be multiplied if you become our sister in Islam by entering this religion. Secondly, acts of worship in Islam are based on an important principle, which is that no one is permitted to worship Allaah in any way except that which Allaah has prescribed in his Book or which was taught by His Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Whoever worships Allaah by doing something that Allaah and His Messenger have not enjoined, Allaah will not accept that from him. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us of that, as it was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Whoever innovates something in this matter of ours [i.e., Islam] that is not part of it will have it rejected.’” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, Kitaab al-Sulh, 2499). Acts of worship include festivals. Allaah has prescribed two festivals or Eids for us to celebrate, and it is not permissible for us to celebrate any others. (Please see question no. 486). With regard to celebrating the day on which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was born, it should be noted that he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did not tell us to celebrate this day, and he himself (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did 125

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not celebrate it, nor did his companions (may Allaah be pleased with them). They loved the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) far more than we do, yet despite that they did not celebrate this day. Hence we do not celebrate this day, in obedience to the command of Allaah Who has commanded us to follow the commands of His Prophet. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And whatsoever the Messenger (Muhammad) gives you, take it; and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain (from it)” [al-Hashr 59:7] And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I urge you to adhere to my Sunnah [way] and the way of the Rightly-Guided khaleefahs. Adhere to it and cling tightly to it. And beware of newly-invented matters [in religion], for every newly-invented matter is an innovation and every innovation is a going-astray.” (Narrated by Abu Dawood, al-Sunnah, 3991; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, no. 3851). The extent to which a person loves the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is to be seen in how he follows him with regard to all that he commanded or forbade. That includes following him in not celebrating the day on which he was born. See question no. 5219, 10070. Whoever wants to venerate the day on which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was born should follow the alternative that is based on Islamic evidence, which is that one should fast on Mondays, not just the day that he was born but every Monday. It was narrated from Abu Qutaadah al-Ansaari (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked 126

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about fasting on Mondays. He said, “On that day I was born and on that day the Revelation came to me.” (Narrated by Muslim, 1978). On Thursdays deeds are taken up and shown to Allaah. Conclusion: celebrating the Prophet’s birthday was not prescribed by Allaah or by the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), so it is not permissible for the Muslims to celebrate his birthday, in obedience to the command of Allaah and the command of His Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon h i m ) . We ask Allaah to guide you to the Straight Path. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 13521: Should he tell a non-Muslim all the details of Islam? Question: is it o.k for a muslim boy to tell someone from another religion what islam is all about? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Yes, it is right to tell him what Islam means, but it is not wise to tell him all the details of Islam in one go. Hence the daa’iyah has to exercise wisdom and start with the most important things and understand the priorities of 127

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da’wah. It was narrated in the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) that when the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sent Mu’aadh (may Allaah be pleased with him) to Yemen, he said: “You are going to some of the People of the Book, so let the first thing to which you call them be the worship of Allaah alone. Then when they have learned about Allaah, tell them that Allaah has enjoined upon them five prayers each day and night. After they do that, then tell them that Allaah has enjoined upon them the zakaat to be paid from their wealth and given to the poor. If they obey, then take that from them, but leave the best of their wealth.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1458; Muslim, 19) The Muslim is obliged to call others to Islam, on condition that he knows what he is calling them to, so that he will not make mistakes in his da’wah. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say (O Muhammad): ‘This is my way; I invite unto Allaah (i.e. to the Oneness of Allaah — Islamic Monotheism) with sure knowledge, I and whosoever follows me (also must invite others to Allaah, i.e. to the Oneness of Allaah — Islamic Monotheism with sure knowledge). And Glorified and Exalted be Allaah (above all that they associate as partners with Him). And I am not of the Mushrikoon (polytheists, pagans, idolaters and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allaah; those who worship others along with Allaah or set up rivals or partners to Allaah)’” [Yoosuf 12:108] Baseerah (translated here as “sure knowledge”) means the knowledge with which truth may be distinguished from falsehood.” (From Tafseer al-Baghawi, 4/284). 128

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Ibn Katheer (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in his Tafseer (4/422) in his commentary on this aayah: “Allaah is telling His slave and Messenger to the two races of mankind and the jinn to tell the people that this is his way and his path, which is calling them to bear witness that there is no god except Allaah alone, with no partner or associate, calling them to Allaah in this way with sure knowledge, certain faith and shar’i and rational proof.” You should note that calling people to Islam is obligatory. Our scholars (may Allaah have mercy on them) said: “It is obligatory upon every Muslim and Muslimah to know four things and act upon them: 1 – Knowledge, which means that the slave knows his Lord and his Prophet, and knows the religion of Islam based on evidence. 2 – Acting upon it, which means that he should act upon this knowledge. 3 – Calling others to it, i.e., calling them to what he has learned. 4 – Patiently bearing any difficulties encountered as a result of seeking knowledge, acting upon it and calling others to what he has learned. The evidence for these four things is the verse in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “By Al‘Asr (the time). Verily, man is in loss, Except those who believe (in Islamic Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds, and recommend one another to the truth [i.e. order one another to perform all kinds of good deeds (AlMa‘roof) which Allaah has ordained, and 129

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abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds (AlMunkar) which Allaah has forbidden], and recommend one another to patience (for the sufferings, harms, and injuries which one may encounter in Allaah’s Cause during preaching His religion of Islamic Monotheism or Jihad)” [al-‘Asr 103:1-3] The phrase “Except those who believe” refers to the first issue, because there is no faith or belief without knowledge. The phrase “and do righteous good deeds” refers to the second issue. The phrase “and recommend one another to the truth” refers to the third issue, which is da’wah. And the phrase “and recommend one another to patience” refers to the fourth issue. So you should explain to the non-Muslim what the religion of Islam means, namely submission to Allaah, accepting His commands, and believing in His Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). You should tell him about the beauties of Islam (see question no. 219) so that he will be convinced of Islam and will accept it. If he becomes Muslim, then tell him about the rulings of Islam in detail, explaining it to him gradually, according to his level of understanding. Do not discuss with him things that may cause him to doubt or overwhelm him with too much information. But follow the method of the rabbaaniyeen of whom Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Be you Rabbaaniyyoon (learned men of religion who practise what they know and also preach others), because you are teaching the Book, and you are studying it” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:79] It was said that the rabbaaniyyoon are those who teach people by starting with easy and straightforward issues before they present them with complicated issues. (Tafseer al-Baghawi, 2/60) 130

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i.e., the major principles and issues before the finer details and minor issues. And Allaah is the Guide to the straight path. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 26885: A Sikh girl wants to marry a Muslim man Question: hi my name is amandeep sidhu. i am not a muslim but i like a person who is muslim. he said he will get married to me. but he never did for some reason.i have a question for you that why can a sikh and a muslim get married? is it all wright for them to get married? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. First of all, we thank you for your trust in this site. We feel that your sending this message is indicative of your openness to searching for the truth and not to cling blindly to that which you grew up with. This in itself is a blessing and we ask Allaah to complete it for you by bringing you to the truth which will bring you happiness in this world and in the Hereafter. In order to reach that point, we advise you to read about Islam on this website and to think about it, and to be sincere in your search for the truth. Ask the One Who created you from nothing to guide you to the correct path and the right religion. Note that human life cannot be good and proper without a correct religion to give life and that this human soul cannot be stable without 131

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a proper relationship with its creator, Allaah. Worship of Allaah is the spirit of life, without which there can be nothing but hardship and misery. With regard to your question about your getting married to a Muslim, if you embrace Islam and accept it as your religion – and this is what we ask Allaah to help you to do – then there is nothing to stop you from marrying him. Your guardian for the purpose of marriage should be your closest Muslim relative; if you have no Muslim relatives then your guardian should be the Muslim judge (qaadi) in the city in which you are living, or someone who is responsible for the Muslim community if there is no Muslim qaadi or sharee’ah court. You should note that Islamic law (sharee’ah) forbids a Muslim woman to marry a non-Muslim man, no matter what his religion is, and it forbids a Muslim man to marry any non-Muslim woman apart from women of the People of the Book, namely Jews and Christians; no others are allowed. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And do not marry Al-Mushrikaat (idolatresses) till they believe (worship Allaah Alone). And indeed a slave woman who believes is better than a (free) Mushrikah (idolatress), even though she pleases you. And give not (your daughters) in marriage to AlMushrikoon till they believe (in Allaah Alone) and verily, a believing slave is better than a (free) Mushrik (idolater), even though he pleases you. Those (Al-Mushrikoon) invite you to the Fire, but Allaah invites (you) to Paradise and forgiveness by His Leave, and makes His Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) clear to mankind that they may remember” [al-Baqarah 2:221] This verse makes clear the great wisdom behind this 132

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prohibition, which is to protect Muslim men and women from being influenced in religious matters. But because the man is the one who has the final say in the household, he is less likely to be influenced by his wife than in the opposite situation, hence he is permitted to marry a woman from among the People of the Book only [not from other religions], because their disbelief is less serious than that of others, in general, and because they are followers of a previous divine message, even though it has been distorted, so they are different from others. On this basis, it is not permissible for a Muslim to marry a Sikh woman unless she becomes Muslim. Our advice to you, to which we hope Allaah will open your heart, is that so long as this issue exists, you should make the most of it so that it will be a motive for you to enter Islam, especially since this Muslim man is following his religion. We hope that if you become Muslim, you and he will be able to help one another to be patient and steadfast, because after you become Muslim you will need someone to stand by your side and protect you from those who will not like the fact that you have become Muslim and have left the religion of your forefathers. This is how Allaah tests many of those who enter this pure monotheistic religion, so that it may be a motive for them to remain steadfast, and to show in reality whether they deserve this blessing or not. We ask Allaah to help you find the way to true happiness and to believe in it and adhere steadfastly to it, until it ultimately leads to Paradise as vast as the heavens and the earth. Please also see question no. 3023. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 133

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26758: He wants to become Muslim in order to marry a Muslim woman Question: I was told that if a person was to become a Muslim, to get married to a muslim girl for example, even if not truly out of faith, then it is still accepted by God. Since this way one more person is becoming a Muslim, and especially that his children would be Muslims instead of Christians for example. So what do u say about that? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. The basis of faith is in the hearts, and so the intention plays a major role in Islamic sharee’ah. This is indicated in the hadeeth which the scholars regard as half of the religion of Islam, and with which many scholars begin their books, such as al-Bukhaari (may Allaah have mercy on him) in his Saheeh. He narrated that ‘Umar ibn alKhattab said: “I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “Actions are but by intention and each person will have but that which he intended. So whoever migrated for some worldly purpose or for the sake of a woman whom he could marry, his migration was for the purpose that he intended.” (alBukhaari, 1). According to the version narrated by Muslim, “So whoever migrated for the sake of Allaah and His Messenger, his migration was for the sake of Allaah and His Messenger, and whoever migrated for some worldly purpose or for the sake of a woman whom he could marry, his migration was for the purpose that he intended.” (Muslim, 2530). Based on the above, this matter may be examined from two angles: 134

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The first has to do with the acceptance of this person’s Islam by Allaah. The hadeeth indicates that it will not be accepted if this (marrying a woman) is the only intention that he has and faith has not entered his heart. The second has to do with applying the rulings of Islam to him. If this person utters the Shahaadatayn and follows the teachings of Islam, and does not do anything that would nullify his Islam, then he should be treated like any other Muslim, and his marriage to this Muslim woman may be accepted. That is because we are commanded by sharee’ah to deal with people according to how they appear to be; we are not commanded to enquire into what is in their hearts. It says in the hadeeth of Abu Sa’eed alKhudri that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: I was not commanded to enquire into what is in people’s hearts or to find out their secrets.” (al-Bukhaari, 4004; Muslim, 1763). Perhaps if this person enters Islam, even if it is with this intention, he will look at the perfection of Islam and be encouraged to form a sincere intention, so he will become sincere towards Allaah and become a good Muslim, and Allaah will accept his Islam. Those who are in touch with this person can advise him to make sure that his intention is primarily to seek the pleasure of Allaah and to enter into Islam truly, and his marriage will then be a consequence or a means of his entering into the blessing of Islam, and not an aim in and of itself. This girl could make marriage to her a means of encouraging him to become Muslim, as happened in the case of Umm Sulaym (may Allaah be pleased with her) and her marriage to Abu Talhah (may Allaah be pleased with him). It was narrated that Anas said: “Abu Talhah married Umm Sulaym, and the dowry between them was Islam. Umm Sulaym had become Muslim before Abu Talhah. He proposed marriage to her and she said, ‘I have become Muslim; if 135

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you become Muslim I will marry you.’ So he became Muslim and that was the dowry between them.” (alNasaa’i, 3288; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Sunan al-Nasaa’i, 3133). With regard to the reason for accepting him – as mentioned in the question – being to increase the number of Muslims, this is not correct, because increasing the number of Muslims, even though this is something good and desirable, is not a reason for accepting anyone who claims to be a Muslim but does not really believe in Islam, because Islam is concerned with quality as well as quantity, it is not concerned only with quantity. One person who sincerely believes in the religion is better than a thousand who are lying about it. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 20239: A Catholic man wants to marry a Muslim woman and is thinking about Islam Question: I am a Catholic male and i am interested in marrying a Muslim woman. I have been reading about the religion and i am interseted in converting, how does one go about this? Thank you in advance for your response. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Praise be to Allaah Who has instilled in you the desire to 136

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enter Islam. We thank you for your question about how to enter the religion of Allaah, for no one will be saved on the Day of Resurrection but those who follow it. Allaah says in the Holy Qur’aan: “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85] Entering Islam is very easy and is not a complicated matter. All you have to do is to utter the Shahaadatayn (the twin testimony of faith), which is the key to Islam and the sum and basis of the faith. You have to say “Ashhadu an laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasool-Allaah (I bear witness that there is no god except Allaah and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah)”; then take a bath (ghusl) with the intention of purifying yourself in order to pray and practise the rituals of the Islamic religion, the greatest of which is prayer, which connects the person to his Lord. For more details on how to do that, see Question no. 13340 and 11497. You also have to believe with certainty that ‘Eesa ibn Maryam (Jesus the son of Mary – peace be upon him) is the slave of Allaah and His Messenger, not a god or the son of God; rather he is a human being whom Allaah sent with the Message of Divine Oneness (Tawheed) and that only Allaah is to be worshipped, with no partner or associate. Allaah says (interpretation of the meanings): “No son (or offspring) did Allaah beget, nor is there any ilaah (god) along with Him” [al-Mu’mineen 23:91] “The Messiah [‘Eesa (Jesus)], son of Maryam (Mary), was no more than a Messenger; many were the 137

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Messengers that passed away before him. His mother [Maryam (Mary)] was a Siddeeqah [i.e. she believed in the Words of Allaah and His Books (see Verse 66:12)]. They both used to eat food (as any other human being, while Allaah does not eat)” [al-Maa’idah 5:75] This shows you that Islam respects ‘Eesa (Jesus – peace be upon him) and his mother, without exaggerating about them or falling into shirk (polytheism, the association of others in worship with Allaah). We would also like to point out that although the motive for your becoming Muslim at this stage may be your desire to marry a Muslim woman, if you become Muslim and learn more about this religion and really put it into practice in your life, then your faith will become stronger, your intention will become purely for the sake of Allaah and you will have the conviction that this religion is indeed true and the soul cannot be purified except through this religion. We are optimistic that you will have a happy future, because of the good start you mention in your question, which makes us optimistic, especially when we ponder the words of the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning): “And whomsoever Allaah wills to guide, He opens his heart to Islam” [al-An’aam 6:125] We ask Allaah to open your heart to the religion and help you to enter it. No doubt this will be good news for the Muslim woman whom you will marry, for she will know that she cannot marry you unless you become Muslim, as is the law of the Lord of the Worlds. We welcome you to join us on this site as a questioner or reader, or to cooperate 138

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with us in doing good. May Allaah send blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his family and companions. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 14246: Become Muslim first, then do not worry about your past Question: i’m a young girl, wanting to convert to islam, for me this religion is really the truth. The problem is, that before i discovered islam, i used to live a pretty wild life, I did a lot of wrong things (if not all wrong things). I would like to know if it’s possible for a girl like me to convert, and what should I do regarding my past when converting Answer: Praise be to Allaah. In the name of Allaah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful “The revelation of the Book (this Qur’aan) is from Allaah, the All Mighty, the All Knower. The Forgiver of sin, the Acceptor of repentance, the Severe in punishment, the Bestower (of favours). Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), to Him is the final return”[Ghaafir 40:2-3 – interpretation of the meaning] 139

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Ibn ‘Abbaas – who was one of the companions of the Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) – narrated that some of the people of shirk (polytheism) killed and did a lot of killing, and they committed adultery and they did that a great deal, then they came to Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and said, “What you say and what you are calling for is good. If only you could tell us that there is any expiation for what we have done.” Then Allaah revealed the words (interpretation of the meaning): ‘Say: “O ‘Ibaadi (My slaves) who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allaah, verily, Allaah forgives all sins. Truly, He is OftForgiving, Most Merciful. And turn in repentance and in obedience with true Faith (Islamic Monotheism) to your Lord and submit to Him (in Islam) before the torment comes upon you, (and) then you will not be helped. And follow the best of that which is sent down to you from your Lord (i.e. this Qur’aan, do what it orders you to do and keep away from what it forbids), before the torment comes on you suddenly while you perceive not!” Lest a person should say: “Alas, my grief that I was undutiful to Allaah (i.e. I have not done what Allaah has ordered me to do), and I was indeed among those who mocked [at the truth! i.e. Laa ilaaha illAllaah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allaah), the Qur’aan, and Muhammad and at the faithful believers] Or (lest) he should say: “If only Allaah had guided me, I should indeed have been among the Muttaqoon (the pious).” Or (lest) he should say when he sees the torment: “If 140

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only I had another chance (to return to the world), then I should indeed be among the Muhsinoon (gooddoers).” Yes! Verily, there came to you My Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) and you denied them, and were proud and were among the disbelievers.’[al-Zumar 39:53-59]” ‘Amr ibn al-‘Aas was a mushrik (polytheist, idolworshipper), a sinner and an enemy of Allaah. He said: “When Allaah put the love of Islam into my heart, I came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to pledge my allegiance to him. He stretched out his hand towards me, but I said, ‘I will not pledge allegiance to you, O Messenger of Allaah, until you forgive me my previous sins.’ The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to me, ‘O ‘Amr, do you not know that Islam wipes out whatever sins came before it.’” (Narrated by Imaam Ahmad, 17159). So flee to Allaah and know that there is nothing that you are worried about, but the solution to it is to be found in the texts quoted above. Indeed, these texts are addressed to you; they refer to your situation and contain the answer to your problem. Your Lord is Most Merciful; He accepts repentance and forgives all sins. His Mercy encompasses all things. He calls you and all His slaves to repent and to become Muslim. He has promised you, through the words of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), that all of your previous sins, major and minor, of whatever type, will be wiped out completely when you become Muslim, and you will start with a clean sheet, a new record of deeds that is free of bad deeds. So what are you waiting for? Why delay it any further? Hasten to enter Islam and worship your Lord, and we give you the glad tidings of a happy future and a good life in the shade of Islam. We 141

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were very happy – by Allaah – to receive your question, and we are waiting to hear good news. For more information on how to enter Islam, please look at Questions #703&11936 And Embracing Islam . May Allaah protect you from all evil, for He is the Best of Protectors and the Best of Supporters, and He is the Guide to the Straight Path. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 14070: He has been asked to research about Islam and its impact on Europe Question: Discuss the rise of Islam by exlporing the life and religious ideas of muhammad, as well as development in the century after his death. Explain at lenght Muhammed’s religious ideas, placing them in there historical context. That is, how do these ideas reflect Muhammed’s personal life expiriences and background, and more generally the environment of seventhy century Arabian society? Then explain how and when Islam spred from Arabia to Europe adressing Islam’s inpact on the Christian West as well as arabia and its surrounding regions. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: Our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah 142

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be upon him) did not produce his ideas by himself, rather the message that he brought came from Allaah – it was Revelation (wahy) which Allaah sent to him. Secondly: with regard to his life (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): He was the best of all people on earth in terms of lineage, for he was descended from the noblest line. Even his enemies bore witness to that. Hence his enemy Abu Sufyaan testified to that effect before the Byzantine ruler. The noblest of people were his people; the noblest of tribes was his tribe; the noblest of clans was his clan. His full name was Muhammad ibn [son of] ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib ibn Haashim ibn ‘Abd Manaaf ibn Qusayy ibn Kilaab ibn Murrah ibn Ka’b ibn Lu’ayy ibn Ghaalib ibn Fahr ibn Maalik ibn al-Nadar ibn Kinaanah ibn Khuzaymah ibn Mudrikah ibn Ilyaas ibn Mudar ibn Nizaar ibn Ma’d ibn ‘Adnaan… ibn ‘Ismaa’eel [Ishmael] ibn Ibraaheem [Abraham] (peace be upon them). Allaah sent him as a Prophet at the age of forty, which is the age of perfection. The first sign of Prophethood which was sent to the Messenger of Allaah was dreams: he did not see any dream but it would come true like daybreak. It was said that that lasted for six months. The period of his Prophethood lasted for twenty-three years. These dreams were one of the forty-six parts of Prophethood. Then Allaah honoured him with Prophethood, and the angel came to him whilst he was in the cave of Hira’, where he used to love to go to be alone. The first words (of the Qur’aan) to be revealed to him were: “Read! In the Name of your Lord Who has created (all that exists)” [al-‘Alaq 96:1 – interpretation of the meaning] 143

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His message came in stages. Firstly, he was appointed as a Prophet; secondly, he warned his nearest kinsmen; thirdly, he warned his people; fourthly, he warned the people to whom no warner had ever come, namely all the Arabs; fifthly, he warned all those whom his message reached, both jinns and humans, until the end of time. After that (initial revelation), he spent three years calling people to Allaah in secret. Then the following words were revealed to him: “Therefore proclaim openly (Allaah’s Message Islamic Monotheism) that which you are commanded, and turn away from AlMushrikoon (polytheists, idolaters, and disbeliever” [al-Hijr 15:94 – interpretation of the meaning] See Zaad al-Ma’aad by Ibn al-Qayyim, 1/71 Thirdly: With regard to the message to which our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) called people, it is sufficient to quote what was said by Abu Sufyaan – who was a kaafir (disbeliever) at the time. Heraclius, the ruler of Byzantium, asked Abu Sufyaan, “What does he tell you to do?” Abu Sufyaan said: “He tells us to worship Allaah alone, not associating anything with Him, and he forbids us to worship that which our fathers used to worship. He commands us to pray, to give in charity, to be chaste, to keep our promises and fulfil our trusts.” Heraclius commented on Abu Sufyaan’s words by saying: “This is the description of a Prophet. I knew that he would appear, but I did not think that he would be from among you [the Arabs]. If you are indeed speaking the truth, then soon he will take possession of the place where my feet are standing. If I thought that I could meet him I would 144

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not hesitate to go to him, and if I were with him I would wash his feet.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2782; Muslim, 1773). Fourthly: After the death of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), he was succeeded as khaleefah (leader of the Muslim community) by Abu Bakr alSiddeeq, during whose time a number of major events took place: the dispatching of the army of Usaamah [to Syria]; the wars against the apostates (ahl al-riddah); fighting those who refused to pay the zakaah; the emergence of Musaylimah the liar [a false prophet]; and the compilation of the Qur’aan. Then came ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab, who was one of the earliest Muslims, one of the ten whom the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had testified would enter Paradise, one of the Rightly Guided Caliphs (alkhulafa’ al-raashideen), one of the in-laws of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), one of the greatest scholars and ascetics among the Sahaabah (the Companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)). Many conquests took place during his time, including the conquest of Damascus, Jordan, Iraq, Jerusalem and Egypt. He is the one who decided, in consultation with ‘Ali, that history should be dated from the time of the Hijrah (the migration of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) from Makkah to Madeenah). He was martyred in 23 AH by the kaafir Magian murderer Abu Lu’lu’ah. Then came ‘Uthmaan ibn ‘Affaan, who was also one of the ten whom the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah 145

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be upon him) had testified would enter Paradise. He had also become Muslim in the earliest days. He was one of those whom Abu Bakr al-Siddeeq had called to Islam. He migrated twice, first to Abyssinia (Ethiopia) then to Madeenah. He married Ruqayyah the daughter of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), then she passed away and he married her sister Umm Kalthoom. He ruled as khaleefah for twelve years, then he was martyred in 35 AH at the age of eighty-odd. Then came ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib, who was also one of the ten whom the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had testified would enter Paradise. He was the brother of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) according to the system of brotherhood established when the muhaajiroon (migrants from Makkah) first came to Madeenah, and he was also the Prophet’s son-in-law as he married his daughter Faatimah, the best of all women (may Allaah be pleased with her). He was also one of the first people to become Muslim, one of the greatest scholars, bravest warriors, prominent ascetics and preachers. He was one of those who compiled the Qur’aan and showed it to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Fifthly: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was guided by the teachings of the Qur’aan, indeed his whole attitude was the Qur’aan as the Mother of the Believers ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said. The way our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was in Islam was the same as the way he had been before, but Allaah perfected his character and made it more beautiful. When the first revelation came, [his wife] Khadeejah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said, listing his attributes: 146

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“No, by Allaah, Allaah would never let you down. For you uphold ties of kinship, you help the weak, you give charity to the poor, you honour your guests and you help the deserving calamity-afflicted ones.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4; Muslim, 160) Both his companions and his enemies described him in a befitting manner, as he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) deserved, saying that he was honourable, brave, merciful, well-spoken, worshipped a great deal, was honest and trustworthy, and so on. This was all summed up in the verse: “And verily, you (O Muhammad) are on an exalted (standard of) character” [al-Qalam 68:4 – interpretation of the meaning] His good character and attitude had a great effect, as it was the reason for some of the mushrikeen (pagans, polytheists) coming to Islam. It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah said: “The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sent some cavalry towards Najd, and they brought a man from Banu Haneefah whose name was Thamaamah ibn Athaal and tied him to one of the pillars of the mosque. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came out and said, ‘Untie Thamaamah.’ Then he (Thamaamah) went to grove of palm trees near the mosque and washed himself (did ghusl), then he entered the mosque and said, ‘I bear witness that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah.’” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 4114; Muslim, 1764). Sixthly: 147

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With regard to Islam reaching Europe, it did so in several ways, including the following: 1 – The keenness of the Muslims to convey the truth to all of mankind. Andalusia [in Spain] was conquered by Taariq ibn Ziyaad in 92 AH/711 CE, and the conquests in western Europe continued until they reached southeastern France in 114 AH. 2 – People coming from North Africa, the Middle East and South Asia to look for work and a better future. 3 – Westerners bringing some people from other countries, such as the Germans bringing Turks, to work in their country. 4 – The presence of Muslim daa’iyahs (callers, “missionaries”) in those countries. 5 – The conquests of the Ottoman state of part of Europe. 6 – The conversion of some indigenous Europeans to Islam, who then began to propagate Islam. 7 – Trade links between Muslims and Europe. 8 – Conversion of some Europeans to Islam. 9 – Changes in the European intellectual approaches. 10 – Rejection of the church myths which contradict revelation and the adoption of empirical knowledge whose foundation was laid by the Muslims. 11 – Participation of Muslim communities in the development of research, inventions and companies in Europe, through the work of qualified Muslim professionals, plus the increase in the number of Muslim communities in Europe, which resulted in the increase in the number of mosques, schools and Islamic centers. This 148

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has resulted in increased Muslim influence, to the extent that the enemies of Islam such as the Jews are scared. The Israeli newspaper “Ha-eretz” said, in an issue published in late June 2001 CE, “As is the case in western Europe, the great increase in the number of Muslims in the United States has led to an increase in their political influence… The increase in the number of Muslims and their increasing political awareness, especially the Arab students, who are the most active of the Arabs in the political field, and the decrease in the number of Jews as a result of mixed marriages and their assimilation into American society, will all, in the future, play a role in changing the balance of power and changing the influence that these competing groups have in Washington. This is now something tangible, as can be seen in the activities of the pro-Arab lobbies in Congress. 1. The increase in the number of Muslims in European counties. More than ten years ago the number of Muslims in Europe was approximately 12 million. 2. The spread of mosques, Islamic centers and schools. 3. The spread of hijaab and Islamic dress in the capitals of European countries. 4. The holding of Islamic exhibitions and seminars, and the establishment of companies that take care of halaal slaughter of meat, and burying the dead in the manner prescribed in Islam. And Allaah is the Guide to the straight path and the Source of strength. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 149

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13747: Dating women, and what are evil spirits? Question: 1- What is the role of women and children in Islam? 2- Is there any such thing as a ghost or spirit? 3- Why is it that Muslim people aren’t allowed to date? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. With regard to women, they have the same responsibilities as men; they have to call people to Allaah as much as they can, strive to call women and warn them against imitating the kuffaar, call them to acquire knowledge of Islam and to remember and worship Allaah, warn them against major and minor sins, and be a good example to others. This applies in all places where women meet. With regard to children under the age of ten, their parents are responsible for striving to give them a good upbringing; if they make mistakes or do something that is haraam, then the sin is on the parents, because they should warn them to keep away from drugs, smoking and other things so that they will grow up healthy and sound. Evil spirits are the spirits of the devils, and there are also devils among mankind who have been brought up to love evil and evildoers. They are the ones whose spirits emanate from their bodies and cause harm by means of the evil eye used against those whom they wish to harm. The jinn and the devils are evil and harmful spirits who may cause a great deal of harm to those who rely on them and trust them. But if a person is cautious about their 150

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evil, and seeks refuge with Allaah from the devils of mankind and the jinn, then Allaah will protect him and keep him safe from their evil. Shaykh ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Jibreen It is not permissible for a Muslim man to date a nonmahram woman and go out with her, because Allaah has forbidden the believers to do that as He says (interpretation of the meaning): “Made lawful to you this day are AtTayyibaat [all kinds of Halaal (lawful) foods, which Allaah has made lawful (meat of slaughtered eatable animals, milk products, fats, vegetables and fruits)]. The food (slaughtered cattle, eatable animals) of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) is lawful to you and yours is lawful to them. (Lawful to you in marriage) are chaste women from the believers and chaste women from those who were given the Scripture (Jews and Christians) before your time when you have given their due Mahr (bridal-money given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage), desiring chastity (i.e. taking them in legal wedlock) not committing illegal sexual intercourse, nor taking them as girlfriends. And whosoever disbelieves in Faith, [i.e. in the Oneness of Allaah and in all the other Articles of Faith i.e. His (Allaah’s) Angels, His Holy Books, His Messengers, the Day of Resurrection and AlQadar (Divine Preordainments)], then fruitless is his work; and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers” [al-Maa’idah 5:5] And Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And when you ask (his wives) for anything you want, ask them from behind a screen, that is purer for your hearts and for their hearts” [al-Ahzaab 33:53] 151

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And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “No man is ever alone with a (non-mahram) women but the Shaytaan is the third one present.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2165; classed as saheeh by alAlbaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 1758) And Allaah is the Source of strength. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 13755: The Muslims as seen by themselves and by others Question: How are muslims seen and how do they see themselves? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. The Muslims are those who submit themselves to Allaah, establish His laws, act according to the Book of their Lord and the Sunnah of their Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), do what Allaah and His Messenger have commanded them and abstain from that which is forbidden. When that is the case, their enemies look at them with awe, admiration and respect, because they know that their adherence to Islam and the true religion raises their status before Allaah and enables them to take control over lands and people. So their enemies look at them with awe and respect, and fear them. But when their commitment to Islam becomes weak and they introduce innovations and bid’ahs, then their enemies look down 152

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on them with contempt and loathing and all feelings of fear disappear. With regard to how the Muslims view themselves, they have to check on one another and look at the faults and weakness that have befallen them, and deal with them as much as possible so that their glory and power will be restored, and so that their enemies will fear them. If they check on one another and pay attention to that and put right the things that have gone wrong among them, then Allaah will strengthen them and support them. Shaykh ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Jibreen (www.islam-qa.com) 13497: Islamic holy days and special occasions Question: what holy days does Islam have? what major historical events has Islam had? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. There is a special day in Islam which Allaah has singled out for blessings which are not to be found in any other days. This day is Friday, to which Allaah guided the Muslims and from which He led the Jews and Christians astray. It is the weekly festival of the Muslims, and it has many special features, some of which we will describe here: 1 – It was the teaching of the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to venerate this day, honour it and single it out for special acts of worship that belong exclusively to this day. In Fajr (early morning 153

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prayer) on Friday he used to recite the Soorahs ‘Alif-laammeem tanzeel’ (al-Sajdah, no. 32) and ‘Hal ata ‘ala’linsaan’ (al-Insaan, no. 76). Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to recite these two soorahs in the Fajr prayer on Friday because they refer to what happened and will happen on that day, for they speak of the creation of Adam, the resurrection and the gathering of mankind, all of which happened or will happen on a Friday. So reciting them on this day is a reminder to his ummah (nation) of what has happened and what is yet to come. This is one of the special features of Friday. 2 – It is mustahabb (recommended) to send lots of blessings upon the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) on the ay of Friday and the night before, because he said: “Send lots of blessings upon me on Friday and the night before.” (Narrated by al-Bayhaqi, 3/249; classed as saheeh (sound) by al-Arna’oot). 3 – Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers are held on this day; this is one of the most strongly-affirmed duties of Islam, and one of the greatest gatherings of the Muslims. It is the greatest and most obligatory gathering in which they come together, apart from ‘Arafah [a place near Makkah (Mecca) where the pilgrims stand and pray during the Hajj or pilgrimage]. Whoever neglects Jumu’ah prayers out of carelessness, Allaah will place a seal over his heart. The people of Paradise will be brought closer (to Allaah) on the Day of Resurrection and they will see Allaah sooner, commensurate with how close they were to the imam on the day of Jumu’ah and how early they came to Jumu’ah prayers. 4 – The command to do ghusl (take a bath for the purpose of purification) on Friday; this command is most emphatic. 154

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5 – Wearing perfume on Friday; this is better than wearing perfume on any other day of the week. 6 – Cleaning the teeth with the siwaak (tooth stick); this is better than using the siwaak on any other day. 7 – Going to the prayers early. 8 – Keeping oneself busy with prayer, dhikr (remembering Allaah) and reading Qur’aan until the imaam comes out to give the khutbah (sermon). 9 – Listening attentively to the khutbah, because listening to it is obligatory according to the more correct of the two scholarly opinions. If a person fails to do that he is engaging in idle talk, and whoever does that has not prayed Jumu’ah. In al-Musnad a marfoo’ report [i.e., a report which is attributed to the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings be upon him)] states: “The one who says to his companion, ‘Be quiet and listen,’ has not prayed Jumu’ah.” (Narrated by Ahmad, 2034; classed as hasan by al-Arna’oot. See Haashiyat Zaad al-Ma’aad, 1/377. Also narrated by al-Bukhaari (934) and Muslim (851), with the wording: “If you say to your companion, ‘Be quiet and listen,’ on a Friday when the imaam is delivering the khutbah, then you have engaged in idle talk.”) 10 – Reading Soorat al-Kahf (no. 18) during the day of Friday. It was narrated that the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever reads Soorat al-Kahf on a Friday, light will shine for him from beneath his feet to the clouds of the sky, which will shine on him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will be forgiven from one Friday to the next.” (Narrated by al-Haakim, 2/ 368; classed as saheeh by al-Arna’oot). 11 – It is a festival which is repeated every week. Ibn Maajah narrated in his Sunan that Abu Lubaabah ibn ‘Abd 155

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al-Mundhir said: “The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Friday is the best and greatest of days before Allaah, and it is greater before Allaah than the day of al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice) and the day of al-Fitr (the Feast of Breaking the Fast). It has five characteristics: on this day Allaah created Adam; on this day Adam came down to earth; on this day Allaah caused Adam to die; on this day there is an hour during which no one asks Allaah for something but He will grant it to him, so long as he does not ask for something haraam (forbidden); and on this day the Hour [i.e., the Day of Judgement] will begin, so there is no angel who is close to Allaah, no heaven, no earth, no wind, no mountain and no tree that does not feel some apprehension on Friday.” (Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 1084. Al-Busayri said: its isnaad is hasan, and it was classed as saheeh in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 888). 12 – It is mustahabb (recommended) to wear the best clothes one has on Friday. Imaam Ahmad narrated in his Musnad that Abu Ayyoob said: “I heard the Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say, ‘Whoever takes a bath on Friday, puts on perfume if he has some, wears his best clothes then goes out , walking in a dignified manner until he reaches the mosque, then he prostrates in prayer if he wants and does not disturb anybody, then he remains quiet until the imaam comes out and he prays, that will be an expiation from one Friday to the next.’” (Narrated by Ahmad in alMusnad, 23059; classed as hasan by al-Ana’oot). In Sunan Abi Dawood it is narrated from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Salaam that he heard the Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say on the minbar (pulpit) one Friday: “There is nothing wrong with any one of you if he buys two garments for Friday other than his workaday clothes.” (Narrated by Abu Dawood, 156

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1078; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 953). 13 – It is mustahabb on Fridays to perfume the mosque with incense. Sa’eed ibn Mansoor narrated from Na’eem ibn ‘Abd-Allaah al-Mujmir that ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (may Allaah be pleased with him) commanded him to perfume the mosque of Madeenah with incense every Friday until noontime. This is why Na’eem was called al-Mujmir (from the word tajmeer meaning perfuming with incense). 14 – It is a day on which sins are expiated. In Saheeh alBukhaari it is narrated that Salmaan al-Faarisi said: “The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘No man takes a bath on Friday and purifies himself as much as he can, and makes his hair tidy, and puts on perfume, then goes out, and does not come between two people, then prays as Allaah decrees for him and listens attentively when the imaam speaks, but he will be forgiven for his bad deeds between this Friday and the other.’” (al-Bukhaari, 843). 15 – On Friday there is the “hour of response” which is an hour in which no Muslim asks Allaah for something but He will grant it. In al-Saheehayn it is narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘On Friday there is an hour in which no Muslim asks for something whilst he is standing in prayer, but it will be given to him” – and he demonstrated the shortness of that time with his hands. (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 883; Muslim, 1406). 16 – On Fridays there is the khutbah (sermon) which is intended to praise and glorify Allaah, and to bear witness to His Oneness and to the Messengership of His Messenger, and to remind His slaves of His blessings, to 157

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warn them of His punishment and wrath, to advise them of that which will bring them closer to Him and His Paradise, and to forbid them that which will bring them closer to His anger and Hell. This is the purpose behind the khutbah and of gathering to hear it. 17 – It is the day on which it is mustahabb to devote oneself to worship and it has an advantage over other days by being characterized with all kinds of worship, obligatory and mustahabb. Allaah has made for the followers of each religion a day on which they devote themselves to worship and refrain from worldly work. So Friday is a day of worship, and in relation to other days it is like Ramadaan in relation to other months; the “hour of response” on Friday is like Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) in Ramadaan. Hence whoever gets it right on Friday, his whole week will be good, and whoever gets it right in Ramadan, his whole year will be good, and whoever gets it right on Hajj, his whole life will be good. Friday is the measure of the week, Ramadaan is the measure of the year and Hajj is the measure of one’s life. And Allaah is the Source of strength. 19 – It is the day with which Allaah has exclusively favoured this ummah, and from which He led the People of the Book astray before them, as it says in al-Saheeh, where it is narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The sun has never risen or set on any day better than Friday. Allaah guided us to it and led the people away from it. The people are behind us in this respect. It (Friday) is for us, Saturday is for the Jews and Sunday is for the Christians.” (Narrated by Ahmad, 10305, classed as saheeh by Ibn Khuzaymah, 3/114). 20 – It is the day which Allaah chose from among all the 158

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days of the week, just as He chose Ramadaan from among the months of the year and Laylat al-Qadr from among all the nights, and Makkah from among all places on earth, and Muhammad from all of mankind. With regard to the second question, the Muslims have several special occasions, such as: 1 – The blessed month of Ramadaan, which is a month that has special characteristics. You will find more information in Question no. 13480. 2 – Eid al-Fitr (the Feast of Breaking the Fast). This is the first day of the month of Shawwaal, on which the Muslims express their joy at the blessing which Allaah has bestowed upon them by enabling them to complete the month-long fast of Ramadaan. 3 – The Day of ‘Arafah, which is the ninth day of the month of Dhu’l-Hijjah, the day of the greater Pilgrimage (Hajj), the greatest pillar of the Hajj. It has many virtues, details of which are to be found in question no. 7284. 4 – Eid al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice). The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best of days is the Day of Sacrifice.” This is the tenth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah. It was narrated that ‘Uqbah ibn ‘Aamir said: “The Messenger of Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘The Day of ‘Arafah, the Day of Sacrifice and the Days of alTashreeq [the three days following the Day of Sacrifice] are a festival for us Muslims, and they are days of eating and drinking.’” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 704; classed as saheeh by alAlbaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 620). See Zaad al-Ma’aad, 1/375 (www.islam-qa.com) 159

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13946: She wants to enter Islam; do her two children have to say the Shahaadah too? Question: I’m converting to Islam from Christianity, my question is I have two children, boy age 14 and girl 11 and I’ve been a widow for nine years now; I know that I have to say the Shahada is this also required by my children? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Saying the Shahaadah is an essential condition of entering Islam, but whoever is born to two Muslim parents does not have to utter the Shahaadatayn because he is judged to be a Muslim, unless he does something that nullifies Islam. But whoever is born to two non-Muslim parents must utter these words, like his parents. Shaykh ‘Abd al-Kareem al-Khudayr. (www.islamqa.com) 23444: If his wife becomes a Muslim then apostatizes, what should he do? Question: I am muslim living in USA married to a christian woman and she is planning to convert to islam the question is if she converted to islam and later she turned back of the islam (rideah) should I stay with her or divorse her according to islam what should I do? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Guidance to the religion of Islam is a great blessing, and the one who is the cause of a person 160

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being guided will have a great reward. It was narrated from Sahl ibn Sa’d (may Allaah be pleased with him) that he heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say to ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib: “By Allaah, if one man were to be guided at your hands, it would be better for you than red camels [i.e., the most valuable kind].” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2942 and Muslim, 2404). So you must do your utmost to guide your wife to Islam because of the great good there is in that for you, for her and for your children. With regard to her situation after becoming Muslim, this is a matter that rests with Allaah, because you do not know what will happen to you, will you remain steadfast in Islam or not? For people’s hearts are between two of the fingers of the Most Merciful and He turns them as He wills, so how about someone else? It was narrated from Anas ibn Maalik that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to say often: “O Controller of the hearts, make my heart steadfast in adhering to Your religion.” I [Anas] said: “O Messenger of Allaah, we believe in you and that which you have brought, do you still fear for us?” He said, “Yes, for people’s hearts are between two of the fingers of the Most Merciful and He turns them as He wills.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi (2140); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 2792). We remind you that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to like to look on the bright side. It was narrated from Anas ibn Maalik (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “(There is) no ‘Adwa (no contagious disease is conveyed without Allaah’s permission), nor is there any tiyarah (bad omen from birds). I like fa’l (optimism).” They asked, “What is fa’l?” 161

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He said, “A good word that one of you hears (and takes as a good omen).” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5776; Muslim, 2224). So be optimistic that she will remain in Islam. What you have to do now is to strive to guide her. If your wife becomes Muslim then apostatizes, then in this case it is obligatory to leave her and it is not permissible to stay with her unless she comes back to Islam. We ask Allaah to end our lives with righteous deeds. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 20756: Islam and Muslims Question: What is the difference between Islam religion and the Muslim religion? Or are they the same? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Islam means submitting to Allaah, worshipping Him alone and obeying Him, and shunning shirk (polytheism, associating others with Allaah) and those who believe in that. This is the religion which Allaah approves for His slaves. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Truly, the religion with Allaah is Islam” [Aal- ‘Imraan 3:19] “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will 162

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never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85] The person who enters this religion is called a Muslim (one who submits), because he has submitted (aslama) to all the rulings that have come from Allaah and from the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And who turns away from the religion of Ibraaheem (Abraham) (i.e. Islamic Monotheism) except him who befools himself? Truly, We chose him in this world and verily, in the Hereafter he will be among the righteous. When his Lord said to him, ‘Submit (i.e. be a Muslim)!’ He said, ‘I have submitted myself (as a Muslim) to the Lord of the ‘Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists).’” [al-Baqarah 2:130-131] “Yes, but whoever submits his face (himself) to Allaah (i.e. follows Allaah’s religion of Islamic Monotheism) and he is a Muhsin ( a doer of good who does good deeds solely for the sake of Allaah) then his reward is with his Lord (Allaah), on such shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve” [al-Baqarah 2:112]. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com)

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Chapter 3 21613: A Christian is asking whether it is possible for him to enter Islam Question: Hello my name is XXX and i live in sweden. I am not muslim, but i am wery interested about it. Is it possible for someone like me to become a muslim? I feel that the islam beliefs are just like my thoughts. I want to know more about it. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We welcome you as our guest to this website, and we greatly appreciate your interest in Islam, because this is the means by which you may be guided, if Allaah wills. Your saying that the religion of Islam is just like your thoughts is a sign that your way of thinking is good and sound, and that your nature is good because it is in tune with the truth and ready to accept it. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Allaah’s Fitrah (i.e. Allaah’s Islamic Monotheism) with which He has created mankind”[al-Room 30:30] With regard to your question about whether it is possible to become a Muslim, the answer is yes indeed. Hasten to do so and do not hesitate. We welcome you as a questioner now and as a Muslim brother in the near future, if Allaah wills. We congratulate you for this good start and for opening 164

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your heart to Islam, and for wanting to learn about it. All that you have to do is embrace Islam by uttering the Shahaadatayn (twin testimony of faith), then start to practice Islam and follow its laws. You will find answers to some important questions under the numbers 703, 378, 6703 and 12373. We will be happy to answer any questions in the future and to help you to understand this great religion. Thank you once again. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 21010: Woman between the honouring of Islam and the humiliation of Jaahiliyyah Question: The west accuses Islam of oppressing women. What is the status of woman in Islam? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. In Islam, woman has a high status which no past nation ever achieved and which no subsequent nation has been able to attain, because the honour which Islam gives to humanity includes men and women equally. They are equal before the rulings of Allaah in this world and they will be equal with regard to His reward and punishment in the Hereafter. Allaah says (interpretation of the meanings):

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“And indeed We have honoured the Children of Adam” [al-Isra’ 17:70] “There is a share for men and a share for women from what is left by parents and those nearest related” [al-Nisa’ 4:7] “And they (women) have rights (over their husbands as regards living expenses) similar (to those of their husbands) over them (as regards obedience and respect) to what is reasonable” [al-Baqarah 2:228] “The believers, men and women, are Awliya’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another” [al-Tawbah 9:71] “And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: ‘My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young’” [al-Isra’ 17:23-24] And Allaah says (interpretation of the meanings): “So their Lord accepted of them (their supplication and answered them), “Never will I allow to be lost the work of any of you, be he male or female” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:195] “Whoever works righteousness — whether male or female — while he (or she) is a true believer (of Islamic 166

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Monotheism) verily, to him We will give a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful provision), and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do (i.e. Paradise in the Hereafter)” [al-Nahl 16:97] “And whoever does righteous good deeds, male or female, and is a (true) believer [in the Oneness of Allaah (Muslim)], such will enter Paradise and not the least injustice, even to the size of a Naqeera (speck on the back of a date stone), will be done to them” [al-Nisa’ 4:124] There is nothing in any other religion, nation or law that can compare to the honour which woman gains in Islam. The Roman civilization decreed that woman was a slave who belonged to man, and had no rights at all. In Rome a major synod met to discuss the case of woman, and decided that she was a being who had no soul, and that therefore she would not inherit life in the Hereafter, and that she was evil. In Athens women were regarded as chattels; they were bought and sold, and were regarded as evil, the handiwork of the devil. The ancient laws of India state that disease, death, Hell, snake venom and fire were all better than woman. Her right to life came to an end when her husband’s – or master’s – life ended. When she saw his body burning she would throw herself into the flames; if she did not do so, she would be subject to curses. With regard to woman in Judaism, the ruling on her in the Old Testament is as follows: “So I turned my mind to understand, to investigate and to search out wisdom and the scheme of things 167

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and to understand the stupidity of wickedness and the madness of folly. I find more bitter than death the woman who is a snare, whose heart is a trap and whose hands are chains…” (Ecclesiastes 7:25-26 – New International Version) It is known that the Old Testament is venerated and believed by both Jews and Christians. This was the situation of woman in ancient times. With regard to her situation in the Middle Ages and in modern times, this will be explained by the following: The Danish writer Wieth Kordsten explained the view of the Catholic Church towards women. He said: “During the Middle Ages very little care was given to women, following the teaching of the Catholic church which regarded woman as a second class creation.” In France, a council in 586 CE decided to research the case of woman and whether she was to be counted as human or not. After some discussion, they decided that woman was human, but she was created to serve man. The 217th clause of the French law states the following: “A married woman – even if her marriage is based on the condition of separating what belongs to her and what belongs to her husband – is not permitted to give anything as a gift or to transfer any of her property or use it as collateral, or to take possession of anything whether in return for payment or otherwise, without her husband being a party to the contract or agreeing to it in writing.” In England, Henry VIII forbade the English woman to read the Bible. Until 1850 CE women were not counted as citizens, and until 1882 CE they did not have any personal rights. 168

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(Silsilat Maqaarinah al-Adyaan, by Dr. Ahmad Shalaby, vol. 3, p. 210-213) As for contemporary woman in Europe, America and other industrial nations, she is a creature which is degraded and abused for commercial purposes. She is a feature of advertising campaigns, and things have reached a stage where she takes off her clothes in order to advertise products on posters, and she sells and displays her body according to systems devised by men, so that she is no more than an object of pleasure for them in every place. Woman is cared for so long as she is able to give and contribute physically or mentally. When she becomes old and cannot give any more, society – individuals and institutions – forsakes her and she lives alone in her house or in a mental hospital. Compare this – and there is no comparison – with the teachings of the Noble Qur’aan, in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “The believers, men and women, are Awliya’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another” [al-Tawbah 9:71] “And they (women) have rights (over their husbands as regards living expenses) similar (to those of their husbands) over them (as regards obedience and respect) to what is reasonable” [al-Baqarah 2:228] “And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. 169

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And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: ‘My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young’”[alIsra’ 17:23-24] Since her Lord has honoured her in this way, it is clear to all of mankind that He has created her to be a mother, a wife, a daughter and a sister, so He prescribed laws which apply exclusively to women and not men. From al-Islam Usooluhu wa Mabaadi’uhu by Dr. Muhammad ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Saalih al-Sahyeem (www.islam-qa.com) 10267: When did Islam begin and who started the Muslim tradition? Question: Who began the Muslim tradition, when did this faith start, what are the rules and how do you begin? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. If what you mean by the “Muslim tradition” is the Islamic religion itself, the answer will be given in the second section below. 1- But if what you mean is what the Muslim ummah (nation) has achieved down throughout the ages of prosperity, then this was not achieved in one instant, but it started when Islam started, especially after the establishment of the Islamic state at the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), then it started to flourish and develop as the Islamic conquests spread 170

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and reached the level that they did. If this can be attributed to anyone, it can only be attributed to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), after Allaah. With regard to other people, everyone contributed as much as he could until the structure (of the Muslim civilization) was complete. 2- With regard to the beginning of the religion, it seems that what is meant by religion is the religion of Islam with its beliefs and laws. This started with the mission of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). With regard to the rules of Islam, they are many and it is difficult to list them all here, but the most important of them are: The testimony that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah; establishing regular prayer; paying the zakaah (obligatory charity, a share of one’s wealth to be given to the poor); fasting in Ramadaan; and Hajj or pilgrimage to the Sacred House of Allaah. An individual enters this religion after bearing witness that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah, then after that he is obliged to adhere to the other pillars, prayer, fasting and Hajj. There are many further details involved in these matters. See also Question # 13569 shaykh Sa’d al-Humayd (www.islam-qa.com) 10590: The tolerance of Islam Question: How can we prove to non-Muslims that Islam is a tolerant and easy religion?

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Islam is the religion of mercy and kindness, the religion of tolerance and ease. Allaah has not burdened this ummah with more than it can bear. Whatever good it does, it will be rewarded for it, and whatever evil it does, it will have to bear the burden of that sin, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Allaah burdens not a person beyond his scope. He gets reward for that (good) which he has earned, and he is punished for that (evil) which he has earned” [al-Baqarah 2:286] Allaah has spared the Muslims any difficulty or hardship in all that He has enjoined upon them. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “He has chosen you (to convey His Message of Islamic Monotheism to mankind by inviting them to His religion of Islam), and has not laid upon you in religion any hardship” [al-Hajj 22:78] Every sin that a Muslim commits because he makes a mistake, or forgets, or is forced to do it, is forgiven by Allaah, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Our Lord! Punish us not if we forget or fall into error” [al-Baqarah 2:286] And Allaah says: your prayer is granted. The Muslim will be brought to account for what he does deliberately, not for what he does by mistake, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 172

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“And there is no sin on you concerning that in which you made a mistake, except in regard to what your hearts deliberately intend” [al-Ahzaab 33:5] Allaah is Kind and Merciful. He sent Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) with ease and the tolerant monotheism: “Allaah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you [al-Baqarah 2:185 – interpretation of the meaning] The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded.” (narrated by al-Bukhaari, 39). The Shaytaan is man’s greatest enemy. He makes him forget the remembrance of his Lord (dhikr) and makes his sin attractive to him, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Shaytaan (Satan) has overpowered them. So he has made them forget the remembrance of Allaah. They are the party of Shaytaan (Satan). Verily, it is the party of Shaytaan (Satan) that will be the losers![al-Mujaadilah 58:19] What one’s own nafs (self) says has been forgiven by Allaah, The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah has forgiven my ummah for thoughts that cross their minds, so long as they do not speak of them or act upon them.” (Narrated by Muslim, 127) Whoever commits a sin then Allaah conceals it, it is not 173

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permissible for him to speak of it, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “All of my ummah will be fine except those who commit sin openly.” (Narrated by Muslim, 2990). If a person commits a sin then repents, Allaah will accept his repentance: “your Lord has written (prescribed) Mercy for Himself, so that if any of you does evil in ignorance, and thereafter repents and does righteous good deeds (by obeying Allaah), then surely, He is OftForgiving, Most Merciful” [al-An’aam 6:54 – interpretation of the meaning] Allaah is Generous and Kind, He multiplies the reward for good deeds and forgives bad deeds, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, narrating the words of his Lord: “Allaah has decreed hasanaat (good deeds) and sayi’aat (bad deeds), then He explained that. Whoever intends to do a good deed then does not do it, Allaah will write it down as one complete hasanah; if he intends to do it then he does it, then Allaah will write it down as between ten and seven hundred hasanaat, or more. Whoever intends to do a bad deed, then he does not do it, Allaah will write it down as one complete hasanah; if he intends to do it then he does it, Allaah will write it down as one sayi’ah.” (Agreed upon; narrated by al-Bukhaari, Kitaab al-Raqaa’iq, 81) From Usool al-Deen al-Islami, by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem al-Tuwayjri. (www.islam-qa.com) 12283: A Christian woman is asking whether her marriage to a Muslim is valid Question: I am a Christian woman, recently married to a Muslim 174

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man. Due to our different beliefs, we were married in a courthouse, as opposed to a Mosque. Does the Muslim belief still see this as a “real” marriage? I have researched this, and was surprised to read that the Islam belief does not honor this as a real wedding? Please confirm...I am very much in love with this man! Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: if the marriage contract was done with: 1. the proposal of your guardian – who may be your father or whoever is acting in his place if he is not there, on the condition that he is of the same religion as you – by his saying, for example, “I offer my daughter in marriage to you.” 2. Acceptance on the part of the husband by saying, for example, “I accept.” 3. The contract was done in the presence of two Muslim witnesses – then the marriage is valid. (For more details on the conditions of marriage, see question no. 2127 and the section on conditions of marriage on this web site). If any of these conditions is missing, then the marriage is not valid, and you have to do it again. The place where the marriage contract is done does not have any effect on the validity of the marriage. Secondly: this question caught our attention because of your keen interest in finding out the rules of the Islamic religion concerning this matter. Perhaps this will lead you to enquire about greater realities, the most important of which is, which is the true religion? 175

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Permit us to ask you the following questions: Do you want a happy life? Do you care about finding contentment? Are you looking for the truth? Do you want a good and righteous life for your children? If you do, then please – may Allaah guide you and us to the truth – consider the following: That Allaah has created mankind for a great purpose, which is to worship Allaah alone with no partner or associate. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And I (Allaah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone). I seek not any provision from them (i.e. provision for themselves or for My creatures) nor do I ask that they should feed Me (i.e. feed themselves or My creatures). Verily, Allaah is the AllProvider, Owner of Power, the Most Strong” [al-Dhaariyaat 51:56-58] Allaah sent the Messengers to call mankind to this purpose. He said (interpretation of the meaning): “And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): “Worship Allaah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taaghoot (all false deities, i.e. do not worship Taaghoot besides Allaah).” Then of them were some whom Allaah guided and of them were some upon whom the straying was justified. So travel through the land and see what was the end of those who denied (the truth)” [al-Nahl 16:36] Then Allaah sent the final Messenger, Muhammad (peace 176

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and blessings of Allaah be upon him). He was the last of the Prophets and Messengers. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allaah and the last (end) of the Prophets. And Allaah is Ever AllAware of everything” [al-Ahzaab 33:40] “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah. And those who are with him are severe against disbelievers, and merciful among themselves. You see them bowing and falling down prostrate (in prayer), seeking Bounty from Allaah and (His) Good Pleasure. The mark of them (i.e. of their Faith) is on their faces (foreheads) from the traces of prostration (during prayers). This is their description in the Tawraat (Torah). But their description in the Injeel (Gospel) is like a (sown) seed which sends forth its shoot, then makes it strong, and becomes thick and it stands straight on its stem, delighting the sowers, that He may enrage the disbelievers with them. Allaah has promised those among them who believe (i.e. all those who follow Islamic Monotheism, the religion of Prophet Muhammad till the Day of Resurrection) and do righteous good deeds, forgiveness and a mighty reward (i.e. Paradise)” [al-Fath 48:29] One of the reasons why He sent the Messengers was so as to establish proof against mankind, lest they say, “No Messenger came to us and no one told us that Allaah commanded us to worship Him.” Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, We have sent the Revelation to you (O Muhammad) as We sent the Revelation to Nooh (Noah) and the Prophets after him; We (also) sent the Revelation 177

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to Ibraaheem (Abraham), Ismaa‘eel (Ishmael), Ishaaq (Isaac), Ya‘qoob (Jacob), and AlAsbaat [the offspring of the twelve sons of Ya‘qaab (Jacob)], ‘Eesa (Jesus), Ayyoob (Job), Yoonus (Jonah), Haaroon (Aaron), and Sulaymaan (Solomon); and to Daawood (David) We gave the Zaboor (Psalms). And Messengers We have mentioned to you before, and Messengers We have not mentioned to you, — and to Moosa (Moses) Allaah spoke directly. Messengers as bearers of good news as well as of warning in order that mankind should have no plea against Allaah after the (coming of) Messengers. And Allaah is Ever AllPowerful, AllWise [al-Nisaa’ 4:163-165] We call you, and everyone who does not follow the religion of Islam, to hasten to obey the command of Allaah by believing in Him alone, with no partner or associate, and to believe in His Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), whom Allaah sent to all of creation, men and jinn alike. Allaah has commanded them to do this, as He says (interpretation of the meaning): “O mankind! Verily, there has come to you the Messenger (Muhammad) with the truth from your Lord. So believe in him, it is better for you. But if you disbelieve, then certainly to Allaah belongs all that is in the heavens and the earth. And Allaah is Ever AllKnowing, AllWise. O people of the Scripture (Christians)! Do not exceed the limits in your religion, nor say of Allaah aught but the truth. The Messiah ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), was (no more than) a Messenger of Allaah and His Word, (“Be!” — and he was) which He bestowed on Maryam (Mary) and a spirit (Rooh) created by Him; so believe in Allaah and His Messengers. Say not: “Three (trinity)!” Cease! (it is) better for you. For Allaah is (the only) One 178

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Ilaah (God), glory is to Him (Far Exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. And Allaah is AllSufficient as a Disposer of affairs” [al-Nisaa’ 4:170-171] Allaah has told us in His Noble Book (the Qur’aan) that He does not accept any religion other than Islam. Allaah says (interpretation of the meanings): “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85] “Allaah bears witness that Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), and the angels, and those having knowledge (also give this witness); (He always) maintains His creation in justice. Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), the AllMighty, the All-Wise. Truly, the religion with Allaah is Islam. Those who were given the Scripture (Jews and Christians) did not differ except, out of mutual jealousy, after knowledge had come to them. And whoever disbelieves in the Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allaah, then surely, Allaah is Swift in calling to account [Aal ‘Imraan 3:18-19] Do not forget that if you become Muslim, it will be better for your children, so that they will not be confused or suffer from mental anguish, and say, “Our father is a Muslim and our mother is a Christian, so who should we follow?” Perhaps thinking through these matters more deeply will 179

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lead to a good result, by Allaah’s leave. Strive to read a sound translation of the Qur’aan, which is considered to be the miracle of the Prophet of Islam, then read the biography of the Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and how Allaah granted success to him and his Companions, and how Allaah supported him with miracles, such as making water flow from between his fingers and the splitting the moon, when the mushrikoon (polytheists) asked for a sign – so he commanded the moon to split, and it split in two – and other events which are recorded in his Seerah (biography). And he also spoke of unseen matters which could not be known except by means of Revelation, such as when he said that the empires of the Persians and Romans (Byzantines) would be conquered before it happened, and other matters which are indicative of his Prophethood. We ask Allaah to guide us all. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 12376: Da’wah – calling others to Islam Question: How should we call people to Islam? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Allaah created man and caused him to dwell on this earth, but He did not forsake him. Rather He gave him what he needs of food, drink and clothing, and revealed to him 180

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throughout the ages a path to follow and be guided by. The interests and happiness of mankind at every time and in every place depend upon following the path of Allaah and rejecting all others: “And verily, this (i.e. Allaah’s Commandments mentioned in the above two Verses 151 and 152) is My straight path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His path. This He has ordained for you that you may become AlMuttaqoon (the pious)”[al-An’aam 6:153 – interpretation of the meaning] Islam is the last of the heavenly religions and the Qur’aan is the last of the heavenly Books. Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is the last of the Prophets and Messengers. Allaah commanded him to convey this religion to all of mankind: “this Qur’aan has been revealed to me that I may therewith warn you and whomsoever it may reach”[alAn’aam 6:18] Allaah sent His Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) with Islam to all of mankind, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say (O Muhammad): ‘O mankind! Verily, I am sent to you all as the Messenger of Allaah’”[al-A’raaf 7:158] Da’wah or calling others to Islam is the best of deeds, because it involves guiding people to the Straight Path and to that which will bring them happiness in this world and in the Hereafter: “And who is better in speech than he who [says: ‘My Lord is Allaah (believes in His Oneness),’ and then stands firm (acts upon His Order), and] invites (men) to Allaah’s (Islamic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds, and 181

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says: ‘I am one of the Muslims.’”[Fussilat 41:33 – interpretation of the meaning] Calling others to Islam is an honourable mission. This is the work of the Prophets and Messengers. The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) explained that his mission in life, and the mission of his followers, is to call people to Allaah. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say (O Muhammad): ‘This is my way; I invite unto Allaah (i.e. to the Oneness of Allaah — Islamic Monotheism) with sure knowledge, I and whosoever follows me (also must invite others to Allaah, i.e. to the Oneness of Allaah — Islamic Monotheism with sure knowledge). And Glorified and Exalted be Allaah (above all that they associate as partners with Him). And I am not of the Mushrikoon (polytheists, pagans, idolaters and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allaah; those who worship others along with Allaah or set up rivals or partners to Allaah)’”[Yoosuf 12:108] The Muslims in general and the scholars in particular are commanded to call people to Islam, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good (Islam), enjoining Al-Ma‘roof (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do) and forbidding Al-Munkar (polytheism and disbelief and all that Islam has forbidden). And it is they who are the successful”[Aal ‘Imraan 3:104] The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Convey from me even if it is (only) one aayah.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3461) Calling people to Allaah is an important task and a 182

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glorious mission, because it means calling people to worship Allaah alone. It means bringing them forth from darkness to the light, planting goodness in the place of evil and truth in the place of falsehood. Hence whoever does this needs to have knowledge, understanding, patience, forbearance, gentleness and kindness. He needs to give of his wealth and of himself, and he needs to understand people’s circumstances and habits. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Invite (mankind, O Muhammad) to the way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Revelation and the Qur’aan) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided” [al-Nahl 16:125] Allaah blessed His Messenger with the words (interpretation of the meaning): “And by the Mercy of Allaah, you dealt with them gently. And had you been severe and harshhearted, they would have broken away from about you; so pass over (their faults), and ask (Allaah’s) forgiveness for them; and consult them in the affairs” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:159] The daa’iyah (caller) may be faced with debates in his da’wah activities, especially with the People of the Book. Allaah has commanded us, if it reaches the point of debate, to debate in a manner that is better, which is with kindness and gentleness, explaining the principles of Islam as they came, pure and simple, in a kindly manner and with no element of compulsion. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 183

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“And argue not with the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians), unless it be in (a way) that is better (with good words and in good manner, inviting them to Islamic Monotheism with His Verses), except with such of them as do wrong; and say (to them): ‘We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you; our Ilaah (God) and your Ilaah (God) is One (i.e. Allaah), and to Him we have submitted (as Muslims)’” [al-‘Ankaboot 29:46] Calling people to Allaah is a virtuous deed which brings great reward. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever calls others to guidance will have a reward like the rewards of those who follow him, without that detracting from their reward in any way. And whoever calls others to misguidance will have a burden of sin like the burden of those who follow him, without that detracting from their burden in any way.”(Narrated by Muslim, 2674) If building a physical structure needs effort and patience until it is complete, then building souls and guiding them to the truth also needs patience and sacrifice. The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) called people to Islam, patiently bearing the persecution of the kuffaar, Jews and hypocrites. They made fun of him and disbelieved in him; they insulted him and threw stones at him; they said that he was a sorcerer or a madman; they accused him of being a poet or a soothsayer – but he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) bore all that with patience until Allaah granted him victory and caused His religion to prevail. So the daa’iyah must follow his example: “So be patient (O Muhammad). Verily, the Promise of Allaah is true; and let not those who have no certainty of Faith discourage you from conveying Allaah’s Message 184

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(which you are obliged to convey)[al-Room 30:60 – interpretation of the meaning] The Muslims must follow the example and guidance of their Messenger and call others to Islam, bearing insults and harm with patience for the sake of Allaah, as their Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did: “Indeed in the Messenger of Allaah (Muhammad) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes for (the Meeting with) Allaah and the Last Day, and remembers Allaah much” [al-Ahzaab 33:21 – interpretation of the meaning] The well-being and happiness of this ummah are only to be found in following this religion. Hence Allaah commanded us to convey the message to all of mankind, as He says (interpretation of the meaning): “This (Qur’aan) is a Message for mankind (and a clear proof against them), in order that they may be warned thereby, and that they may know that He is the only One Ilaah (God — Allaah) — (none has the right to be worshipped but Allaah) — and that men of understanding may take heed [Ibraaheem 14:52] From Usool al-Deen al-Islami by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ibraaheem al-Tuwayjri (www.islam-qa.com) 10134: Ruling on those who are not reached by the call of Islam Question: Will the people living in the remotest places on earth like 185

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the rainforests or the south pole, go to hell or heaven, the case being that they never encountered anyone or prophet, who has told them about Allah and Islam ? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. The best scholarly opinion concerning this type of people is that they will be put to the test on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever obeys will enter Paradise and whoever disobeys will enter Hell, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And We never punish until We have sent a Messenger (to give warning)” [al-Israa’ 17:15] Majmoo’ Fataawa al-Shaykh Ibn Baaz (may Allaah have mercy on him), 1/456 (www.islam-qa.com) 12373: He is very close to Islam Question: Iam an hindu and i’ve been ferociouly inclined towards islam.a website like yours is the gift of allah to millions of young people like me.inshallah, i will very soon enter the world of islam.please do pray for me to enter islam. Let the good work of people like you continue by the grace of allah. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We thank you for your commendation and congratulate 186

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you on your decision. We pray that Allaah will cause you to enter this religion sooner rather than later. We say: O Allaah, hasten to guide this slave of Yours to the Straight Path and decree that he be guided soon to the religion of Islam, for You are the All-hearing Who answers prayers. Remember that you have to act upon your decision, for whomever Allaah decrees is to be guided, He will make smooth for him the path of ease (goodness). So respond to your Lord and utter the words of the Shahaadatayn (twin declaration of faith), and do the acts of worship prescribed in Islam. Remember that there is nothing to be gained by waiting any longer, because you do not know when your appointed time (of death) will come. Perhaps you know that delaying entering Islam will cause you to lose a lot of reward which you would have gained if you had done it sooner. The reward for every prayer, act of charity, fast, remembrance of Allaah (dhikr), upholding of family ties, reading Qur’aan etc., will be lost for as long as you delay. So go ahead and do not hesitate; be decisive and do not put if off. You should not think it is too great a step to change your religion, or be too concerned about the objections of family members. Whoever knows the truth will make sacrifices for its sake and will be patient in following it. We wish you strength, guidance and patience in following the truth. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. . Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 11934: His Muslim wife’s relatives are kaafirs who mistreat her Question: Me and my wife are in a delemma about our relatives. 187

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We both are the only muslims in among our families. I’m in very close family they are there when you need help they’re very supportive of me. My wife family isn’t close to her at all nor are they close to our kids.My wife brothers talks to her as she are garbage, they cheat her out of her money by telling her lies of deciet, they drink, and commit adultery, and her sisters on the other hand threaten her a lot by calling “DCFS,” they call her liers about everything, they disregard everything she say, and they have gatherings and she’s not invited, and they all hate Islam and talks negative about it.Where do draw the line and say enough is enough. I know Islam teaches us to be kind to our family members but how do you deal with family that don’t respect you and criticize you all the time. My wife get angry at me when I tell her about them, even though she knows how they are. What makes me very angry is that my wife brothers say things to her and she makes excuses for them about why they treat her this way that if I were to say similar she would blow the roof off the house,and if I asked them why they talk to her that way she would accuse me of making fitna. How do I deal with matter or how should she deal with matter. please advise Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Praise Allaah that your family is closely-knit and that you do not suffer the things that your wife suffers from her family. Appreciating this blessing fully will make you give thanks to your Lord and feel compassion for your wife because of the state of affairs with her family. This will motivate you to console her and stand beside her to ward off mistreatment from her, and boost her morale when she is faced with these attacks. Our advice to your wife is to bear her family’s mistreatment with patience and to strive to call the individuals in her family who are less 188

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evil and more open to accepting the truth. Then if her kaafir family are causing her trouble, she can mix with them less, and make her visits to them brief and for a purpose. No Muslim is obliged to mix with kaafir relatives if he cannot bear their mistreatment, but he should strive to bear their mistreatment with patience and call them to Islam. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 12215: She is in a relationship with a Christian man and she wants him to become Muslim so she can marry him Question: Do you have any way, how to make someone concious about religion.i have problems that i can’t figure out my self. I have woman to man relationship ( now almost take three years ), this friend of mine is a christiant,we are planning to get married but i want him to be a moslem . Pushing is not my intend,i want him to become a moslem sincerelly, i know hidayah is only from allah but we human must try the best...i’m not going to marry him if he is not a moslem...in the same time i want him to be my husband ...help me Answer: Praise be to Allaah. There are many ways of creating interest in Islam, such as reading the seerah (biography) of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), or reading about the miracles of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah 189

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be upon him), or about his prevailing victories and the defeat of his enemies. One may also look at the beauties of Islam, or explain that the sharee’ah of Islam includes everything that is good, and that sharee’ah does not enjoin anything except that which is in accordance with reason and common sense, and it does not forbid anything without explaining what is wrong with it and putting people off it. For this reason people, Arabs and others, entered Islam voluntarily, without being forced. We advise this woman to put an end to her relationship with this Christian man which has lasted for so long and he is still persisting in his kufr. If he chooses Islam of his own free will, then he must be tested after that to be certain that he is sincere. He must also be told that if he goes back to Christianity after becoming Muslim, he is to be killed. (Because the punishment for apostasy in Islam is death. Whoever recognizes the true religion and enters it then leaves it, does not deserve to live. Hence the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “Whoever changes his religion, kill him.” This is what is to be applied if he is living in a country which is ruled by sharee’ah. The point is that this person should be informed of the seriousness of the matter. And Allaah is the source of strength.) Shaykh Ibn Jibreen (www.islam-qa.com) 11936: It is not essential to have witnesses in order to enter Islam Question: My question is one concerning, when a non muslim wants to accept the Shahadah. Do witnesses need to be present? I remember a hadith mentioning a man who killed 99 ppl and was sent to heaven b/c of his intentions of coming towards islam? 190

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. It is not essential for the one who wants to utter the twin testimony of faith (al-shahaadatayn) to have witnesses present. He may simply utter the words with his tongue, and that is sufficient for him to enter Islam. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 7453: He became Muslim and he has musical instruments – what should he do with them? Question: I reverted to Islam in September 99, Alhamdoulillah. I was a guitar player. I would like to know if it is possible for me to sell my guitars? And what about equipment such as microphones, mixers, computers… that actually can be used for other purposes than making music, can I sell these? If I can not sell anything, what shall I do with them? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We put this question to Shaykh ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abd alRahmaan ibn Jibreen (may Allaah preserve him), who answered as follows: If they cannot be used for any permissible purpose – and these things can only be used for haraam purposes in most 191

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cases – then he has to destroy them. Whoever fears Allaah and does his duty towards Him, Allaah will show him a way out and grant him provision from sources he could never imagine. For information on the rulings on music, please see question 5011 And Allaah knows best. Shaykh ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abd al-Rahmaan ibn Jibreen (www.islam-qa.com) 11232: Giving a lecture about Islam in a church Question: Someone has been invited to give a lecture about Islam in a church. Should he accept? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We put this question to Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen, may Allaah preserve him, who answered as follows: This matter needs further examination, because the place is not appropriate, except in the unlikely event that it might be said that the Muslims are so powerful that they can proclaim their religion in the places of worship of the Christians. If this is the case, then it is good. But I am worried that it may be the opposite, i.e., that the Muslims are compelled to speak of their religion in the church. Hence I think that he should not do that, in order to avoid falling into this category (of being weak). And Allaah knows best. 192

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Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen (www.islam-qa.com) 4036: She wants to embrace Islam but does not want to leave her kaafir husband Question: In the Islamic centres and when calling non-Muslim women to Islam, we are faced with the problem of the wife’s attachment to her kaafir husband who does not want to become Muslim. It is difficult for the woman to sacrifice her marriage, especially when the couple has children and the husband treats her well and she feels a great deal of love for him. We know that if a kaafir woman becomes Muslim it is not permissible for her to remain in a marriage with a kaafir man, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “… they are not lawful (wives) for the disbelievers nor are the disbelievers lawful (husbands) for them…” [al-Mumtahinah 60:10]. How should we deal with this problem? Is it permissible for us to focus on the issue of the woman becoming Muslim and ignore the rest of the matter? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We put this question to Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen: A woman says, I want to become Muslim, and my husband is good and I do not want to leave him. What should I do? He answered:

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“She has to leave him, but is it possible for her to call him to Islam? She could say, ‘I want to become Muslim, but if I become Muslim, the marriage will become null and void unless you become Muslim too.’ Hopefully if she says this to him, he will become Muslim too.’” Question: If she become Muslim, can she stay in the marital home while she calls him to Islam, or should she leave? Answer: “If she is hopeful that he will become Muslim, she can stay in the marital home until the end of her ‘iddah (waiting period following the dissolution of a marriage).” Question: Can she uncover herself (go without hijab) during the ‘iddah or not? Answer: “To be on the safe side, she should not uncover, because there is no certainty that he will agree to become Muslim.” Question: And she should not be alone with him? Answer: “And she should not be alone with him.” Question: If telling her about this could turn her away from Islam, is it permissible for us according to sharee’ah to conceal the second part of the answer from her, so that we could tell her, “Become Muslim first, then we will tell you about the ruling on staying with your husband”? 194

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Answer: “No, if we say this, and then we tell her about the ruling and she leaves Islam (becomes an apostate), this will make the problem worse. For this reason the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib, when he sent him to the people of Khaybar: ‘Call them to Islam and tell them what they have to do in the way of duties towards Allaah.’” Question: So now if she continues to live with him after she becomes Muslim she is guilty of a major sin (kabeerah)? Answer: “Yes that is the case, but she should not persist in zinaa (unlawful sexual relationship).” Question: Briefly, how should we answer her? Answer: “Tell her: Become Muslim, and know that if you become Muslim and your husband does not, the marriage will become null and void.” When we are talking to women who will be faced with this issue, we should focus on the following points: Giving priority to love for Allaah and His Messenger over love for anyone else. If she is sincere in calling him to Islam and in praying for him, Allaah may guide him at her hands. - Whoever gives up something for the sake of Allaah, Allaah will compensate him or her with something better. 195

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Allaah will never forsake His slave who gives up something he or she loves for His sake. When a woman like this becomes Muslim and leaves her husband, one of the Muslim brothers should come forward to marry her and take her children into his family, or goodhearted Muslims should undertake the responsibility of spending in charity on her and her children. We ask Allaah to guide us and grant us strength and help us to do the right thing. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad. Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen (www.islam-qa.com) 8593: If he announces his Islam they will not give him a job; can he conceal his faith? Question: I embraced Islam about half a year ago. I’m very happy with all the changes in my life, that occured after having reverted, but I haven’t been “registered” yet officially as a muslim. As I want to be a teacher on day, there is a big problem I face: Germany is not very tolerant towards muslim teachers, thus, it is very unlikely for me to get a job one day. I want to ask you now, if it is possible to hide my muslim faith, until I have my job? Can I practice it in private without telling it any governmental authorities? Answer: We put this question to Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen, may Allaah preserve him, who answered as follows: He does not have to tell them about his being Muslim, 196

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and there is nothing wrong with him concealing his religion if he is afraid for himself. And Allaah knows best. Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen (www.islam-qa.com)

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Chapter 4 11819: How To Become a Muslim ? Question: How To Become a Muslim ? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. All praise be to Allah, the lord of the universe. May peace and blessings of Allah be upon Mohammad, His last messenger. The purpose of this hand-out is to correct a false idea spread among those willing to adopt Islam as their faith. Some people have a wrong notion that entering into th Islamic fold requires an announcement from the concerned person in the presence of high ranking scholars or shaikhs or reporting this act to courts of justice or other authorities. It is also thought that the act accepting Islam, should, as a condition, have a certificate issued by the authorities, as evidence to that effect. We wish to clarify that whole matter is very easy and that none of these conditions or obligations are required. For Allah, Almighty, is above all comprehension and knows well the secrets of all hearts. Nevertheless, those who are going to adopt Islam as their religion are advised to register themselves as Muslims with the concerned governmental agency, as this procedure may facilitate for them many matters including the possibility of performing Hajj (Pilgrimage) and Umrah.

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If anyone has a real desire to be a muslim and has full conviction and strong belief that Islam is the true religion ordained by Allah for all human-being, then, one should pronounce the “shahada”, the testimony of faith, without further delay. The Holy Qur’an is explicit on this regard as Allah states : “The Religion in the sight of Allah is Islam” (Qur’an 3:19) in another verse of the Holy Qur’an, Allah states : “If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (Submission to Allah), Never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (their selves in the hell fire).” (Qur’an 3:85) In addition, Islam is the only religion prevailing over all other religions. Allah states in the Holy Qur’an : “To thee We sent the Scripture in the truth, confirming the scripture that came before it, and guarding it in safety :…. (Qur’an 5:48) Mohammad, the Prophet of Allah (Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him), said : “The superstructure of Islam is raised on five (pillars) : testifying that there is no God (none truly to be worshipped) but Allah, and that Mohammad is the messenger of Allah, performing the prayer, paying the Zakah (poor-due), fasting the month of Ramadan, and performing Hajj.” The Shahada can be declared as follows : “ASH-HADU ANLA ELAHA ILLA-ALLAH WA ASHHADU ANNA MOHAMMADAN RASUL-ALLAH”. The English translation is :

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“I bear witness that there is no deity (none truly to be worshipped) but, Allah, and I bear witness that Mohammad is the messenger of Allah.” However, it would not be sufficient for anyone to only utter this testimony oraly either in private or in public; but rather, he should believe in it by heart with a firm conviction and unshakeable faith. If one is truly sincere and complies with the teachings of Islam in all his life, he will find himself a new born person. This will move him to strive more and more to improve his character and draw nearer to perfection. The light of the living faith will fill his heart until he becomes the embodiment of that faith. What would be next after declaring oneself a Muslim ? one should then know the real concept underlying this testimony which means the oneness of Allah and meet its requiremants. One must behave accordingly, applying this true faith to every thing one speaks or does. What do the words of the “Shahada” signify? The significant point which every Muslim must know very well is the truth that there is no God (deity) to be worshipped other than Allah. He-glory be to Him – is the only true God, Who alone deserves to be worshipped, since He is the Giver of life and Sustainer and Nourisher of mankind and all creation with His unlimited bounties. Man must worship Allah, Who alone is worthy of worship. The second part of the Shahada “i.e., Wa Ash-hadu anna Mohammadan abduhu wa rasuluh” means that Prophet Mohammad (Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) is the servant and chosen messenger of Allah. No one must have two opinions about this matter. In fact the Muslim has to obey the commands of the Prophet (Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him), to believe him in 200

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what he has said, to practise his teachings, to avoid what ha has forbidden, and to worship Allah alone according to the message revealed to him, for all the teachings of the Prophet were in fact revelation and inspirations conveyed to him by Allah. What is the meaning of worship? It simply means rendering sincere service, showing reverence for Allah. In a deeper shade of meaning, it implies total submission and complete obedience to Allah’s commandments both in utterances and actions of man whether explicit or implicit. Worship fall into two categories : Visible (manifest or outward). Invisible (concealed or inward). Visible worship includes acts such as uttering the two parts of the “Shahada”, performing prayers, giving Zakah (the poor-due), recitation of the Holy Qur’an, supplication, adoring Allah by praising Him, purifying our bodies before prayers, etc. This type of worship is associated with movement of the parts of the human body. Invisible worship is to believe in Allah, in the Day of Judgement (in the Hereafter), in the Angels, in the Books of Allah, in the Prophets of Allah, in the Divine Decree of destiny (that good and bad are determined by Allah alone). This type worship does not involve movement of parts of the body but it surely has bearing on one’s heart which subsequently affects one’s way of life. It should be borne in mind that any worship not dedicated 201

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to Allah alone will be rejected as one form of polytheism and this causes apostasy from the Islamic fold. The next step for a newly revert to Islam is the purify himself by taking a cmplete bath. He should then resolve to comply with the principles and rules of Islam in their entirety. He should disown all forms of polytheism and false beliefs. He should reject evil and be rigtheous. Such rejection of evil and being righteous is one of the requisites of the motto of Islam – that is, Laa ilaha illallah. Allah states in the Holy qur’an : “…whoever rejects evil and believes in the Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy Hand-hold, that never breaks…” (Qur’an 2:256). We have to consider that when declare from our heart that “ there is no god (deity) worthy to be worshipped but Allah”, it implies on our part love, devotion, faith and obedience to the rules of Islamic legislations which are legally binding on all Muslims. It is a requiremant of “there is no god worthy to be worshipped but Allah” to love for the sake of Allah and to reject for the sake of Allah. This is the firmest anchor of belief which materialise the meaning of “AL WALA” and “AL BARA”. It means that a Muslim should love and be loyal to his Muslim brothers. He should, as a practise, dissociate himself completely from the unbelievers and refuse to be influenced by them, both in wordly and religious matters. We conclude with a humble prayer to Allah that may He cleanse the hearts and souls of those who are genuine seekers of truth and may He bless the community of believers. Aameen. 202

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Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 10232: Ruling on the call for closeness and reconciliation between religions Question: Here in America we are trying as best we can to call people to Allaah according to the way of the Pious Predecessors (al-salaf al-saalih). Recently there has emerged a very serious matter, which is the spread of committees to bring together the three heavenly religions – Islam, Christianity and Judaism – whereby each group sends a representative to try to bridge the gaps between these three religions and bring them closer together. They meet in churches and synagogues, and even pray together, as happened following the massacre in al-Khaleel (“Hebron”) in Palestine. These meetings are attended by a not insignificant number of followers from these three religions. Our question is: the Muslims are represented by scholars – or by people who are counted as being scholars – and there has arisen among us an argument as to the ruling on attending meetings such as these, where Muslim scholars shake hands with and embrace priests and monks. There is no opportunity for da’wah in these meetings; they are held in the name of bringing these three religion closer together. Is it permissible for a Muslim who believes in Allaah and the Last Day to attend such meetings, to enter churches and synagogues and to greet and embrace a priest or monk? For your information, this phenomenon has spread across America, and we hope that you can send us the solution, because we have agreed to accept your ruling between us to suppress this fitnah that exists at the national level. Wa’l-salaamu ‘alaykum wa rahmat-Allaahi wa barakaatuhu. 203

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. After studying the matter, the Committee for Issuing Fatwas responds as follows: Firstly: The basic principles of faith with which Allaah revealed His Books – the Tawraat (Torah), Injeel (Gospel) and Qur’aan – to His Messengers, and to which His Messengers – peace be upon them – Ibraaheem, Moosa, ‘Eesaa and other Prophets and Messengers – called mankind, are all the same. The earlier Messengers foretold the coming of those yet to come, and the later Messengers confirmed what their forbears had said, supporting them and pointing out their importance. The details of their laws differed according to the circumstances, times and interests of the people, by the wisdom and justice of Allaah and as a mercy and a favour from Him. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “The Messenger (Muhammad) believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, and (so do) the believers. Each one believes in Allaah, His Angels, His Books, and His Messengers. (They say,) ‘We make no distinction between one another of His Messengers’ — and they say, ‘We hear, and we obey. (We seek) Your forgiveness, our Lord, and to You is the return (of all).’” [al-Baqarah 2:285] “And those who believe in Allaah and His Messengers and make no distinction between any of them (Messengers), We shall give them their rewards; and Allaah is Ever OftForgiving, Most Merciful” [al-Nisa’ 4:152] 204

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“And (remember) when Allaah took the Covenant of the Prophets, saying: ‘Take whatever I gave you from the Book and Hikmah (understanding of the Laws of Allaah), and afterwards there will come to you a Messenger (Muhammad ) confirming what is with you; you must, then, believe in him and help him.’ Allaah said: ‘Do you agree (to it) and will you take up My Covenant (which I conclude with you)?’ They said: ‘We agree.’ He said: ‘Then bear witness; and I am with you among the witnesses (for this).’ Then whoever turns away after this, they are the Faasiqoon (rebellious: those who turn away from Allaah’s obedience). Do they seek other than the religion of Allaah (the true Islamic Monotheism worshipping none but Allaah Alone), while to Him submitted all creatures in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly. And to Him shall they all be returned. Say (O Muhammad ): ‘We believe in Allaah and in what has been sent down to us, and what was sent down to Ibraaheem (Abraham), Ismaa‘eel (Ishmael), Ishaaq (Isaac), Ya’qoob (Jacob) and Al-Asbaat [the offspring of the twelve sons of Ya’qoob (Jacob)] and what was given to Moosa (Moses), ‘Eesaa (Jesus) and the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between one another among them and to Him (Allaah) we have submitted (in Islam).’ And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers” [Aal- ‘Imraan 3:81-85] After mentioning the call of His close friend (khaleel) 205

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Ibraaheem, and the Messengers who were with him, Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “They are those whom We gave the Book, AlHukm (understanding of the religious laws), and Prophethood. But if these disbelieve therein (the Book, AlHukm and Prophethood), then, indeed We have entrusted it to a people (such as the Companions of Prophet Muhammad ) who are not disbelievers therein. They are those whom Allaah had guided. So follow their guidance. Say: ‘No reward I ask of you for this (the Qur’aan). It is only a reminder for the ‘aalameen (mankind and jinn).’” [al-An’aam 6:89-90] “Verily, among mankind who have the best claim to Ibraaheem (Abraham) are those who followed him, and this Prophet (Muhammad) and those who have believed (Muslims). And Allaah is the Walee (Protector and Helper) of the believers [Aal ‘Imraan 3:68] “Then, We have sent the Revelation to you (O Muhammad saying): “Follow the religion of Ibraaheem (Abraham) Haneef (Islamic Monotheism — to worship none but Allaah) and he was not of the Mushrikoon (polytheists, idolaters, disbelievers). [al-Nahl 16:123] “And (remember) when ‘Eesaa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), said: ‘O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Allaah unto you, confirming the Tawraat [(Torah) which came] before me, and giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad’” [al-Saff 61:6] 206

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“And We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the Book (this Qur’aan) in truth, confirming the Scripture that came before it and Mohaymin (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it (old Scriptures). So judge among them by what Allaah has revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging away from the truth that has come to you. To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way” [al-Maa’idah 5:48] It was reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I am the closest of mankind to ‘Eesaa ibn Maryam in this world and in the Hereafter. The Prophets are like brothers (from one father), their mothers are different but their religion is one.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari). Secondly: The Jews and Christians deliberately distorted the meanings, and replaced words with others which were not said to them. In this way they changed the basic principles of their religion and altered the laws of their Lord. For example, the Jews said “‘Uzair (Ezra) is the son of Allaah” [al-tawbah 9:30 – interpretation of the meaning]; they claimed that Allaah got tired after creating the heavens and the earth and everything between them in six days, so He rested on the Sabbath day; they claimed that they crucified ‘Eesaa (peace be upon him) and killed him; they tricked their way into allowing fishing on the Sabbath, which Allaah had forbidden for them; they abolished the punishment for zinaa; they said “Allaah’s Hand is tied up (i.e. He does not give and spend of His Bounty)” [al-Maa’idah 5:64 – interpretation of the meaning]; and other ways in which they altered and distorted their religion in theory and in practice, even 207

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though they knew what they were doing, following their own desires. The Christians claimed that the Messiah ‘Eesaa (peace be upon him) was the son of God, or even that he was a god alongside Allaah; they confirmed the Jews’ claim to have crucified ‘Eesaa (peace be upon him) and killed him. Both groups claimed to be the sons of God and beloved by Him; they disbelieved in Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and in the message he brought, and they hated him out of jealousy. But Allaah had taken a pledge from them that they would believe in him and support him. And there are other scandalous contradictions on the part of both groups. Allaah has told us about many of their lies and fabrications, and how they have distorted the doctrines and laws which Allaah had revealed to them. Allaah exposed them and refuted them in His Book. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Then woe to those who write the Book with their own hands and then say, ‘This is from Allaah,’ to purchase with it a little price! Woe to them for what their hands have written and woe to them for that they earn thereby. And they (Jews) say, ‘The Fire (i.e. Hell-fire on the Day of Resurrection) shall not touch us but for a few numbered days.’ Say (O Muhammad to them): ‘Have you taken a covenant from Allaah, so that Allaah will not break His Covenant? Or is it that you say of Allaah what you know not?’” [al-Baqarah 2:79-80] “And they say, ‘None shall enter Paradise unless he be a Jew or a Christian.’ These are their own desires. Say (O Muhammad ), ‘Produce your proof if you are truthful.’ [al-Baqarah 2:111] “And they say, “Be Jews or Christians, then you will be guided.” Say (to them O Muhammad ), “Nay, (we follow) only the religion of Ibraaheem (Abraham), Haneef 208

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[Islamic Monotheism, i.e. to worship none but Allaah (Alone)], and he was not of Al-Mushrikoon (those who worshipped others along with Allaah).” Say (O Muslims): “We believe in Allaah and that which has been sent down to us and that which has been sent down to Ibraaheem (Abraham), Ismaa’eel (Ishmael), Ishaaq (Isaac), Ya’qoob (Jacob), and to Al-Asbaat [the offspring of the twelve sons of Ya’qoob (Jacob)], and that which has been given to Moosa (Moses) and ‘Eesaa (Jesus), and that which has been given to the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we have submitted (in Islam).” [alBaqarah 2:135-136] “And verily, among them is a party who distort the Book with their tongues (as they read), so that you may think it is from the Book, but it is not from the Book, and they say: ‘This is from Allaah,’ but it is not from Allaah; and they speak a lie against Allaah while they know it [Aal ‘Imraan 3:78] “Because of their breaking the covenant, and of their rejecting the Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allaah, and of their killing the Prophets unjustly, and of their saying: ‘Our hearts are wrapped (with coverings, i.e. we do not understand what the Messengers say)’ — nay, Allaah has set a seal upon their hearts because of their disbelief, so they believe not but a little. And because of their (Jews) disbelief and uttering against Maryam (Mary) a grave false charge (that she has committed illegal sexual intercourse); And because of their saying (in boast), ‘We killed Messiah ‘Eesaa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), the Messenger of 209

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Allaah,’ — but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but it appeared so to them the resemblance of ‘Eesaa (Jesus) was put over another man (and they killed that man)], and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely; they killed him not [i.e. ‘Eesaa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)]: But Allaah raised him [‘Eesaa (Jesus)] up (with his body and soul) unto Himself (and he is in the heavens). And Allaah is Ever AllPowerful, AllWise.” [al-Nisaa’ 4:155-158] “And (both) the Jews and the Christians say: ‘We are the children of Allaah and His loved ones.’ Say: ‘Why then does He punish you for your sins?’ Nay, you are but human beings of those He has created…” [al-Maa’idah 5:18] “And the Jews say: ‘Uzair (Ezra) is the son of Allaah, and the Christians say: Messiah is the son of Allaah. That is their saying with their mouths, resembling the saying of those who disbelieved aforetime. Allaah’s Curse be on them, how they are deluded away from the truth! They (Jews and Christians) took their rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allaah (by obeying them in things which they made lawful or unlawful according to their own desires without being ordered by Allaah), and (they also took as their Lord) Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), while they (Jews and Christians) were commanded [in the Tawraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)] to worship none but One Ilâh (God — Allaah) Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Praise and glory be to Him (far above is He) from having the partners they associate (with Him).” [alTawbah 9:30-31] 210

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“Many of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) wish that if they could turn you away as disbelievers after you have believed, out of envy from their ownselves, even after the truth (that Muhammad is Allaah’s Messenger) has become manifest unto them” [al-Baqarah 2:109] — and there are other outrageous statements and shameless fabrications which never cease to amaze and astound. We have mentioned some examples of what they do as a basis for the following response. Thirdly: On the basis of the above, it is clear that the basic foundation of the laws and religions that Allaah has prescribed for His slaves is one and there is no need to bring them close to one another. It is obvious that the Jews and Christians have distorted and twisted that which was revealed to them from their Lord, to the point that their religions have become falsehood, kufr and misguidance. Because of that Allaah sent Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to them and to other nations in general, to make clear what truth they were hiding and to make known what they were concealing, and to correct the beliefs and laws that they had corrupted, and to guide them and others to the straight path. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad ) explaining to you much of that which you used to hide from the Scripture and pass over (i.e. leaving out without explaining) much. Indeed, there has come to you from Allaah a light (Prophet Muhammad ) and a plain Book (this Qur’aan). Wherewith Allaah guides all those who seek His Good 211

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Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to the Straight Way (Islamic Monotheism).” [al-Maa’idah 5:1516] “O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad ) making (things) clear unto you, after a break in (the series of) Messengers, lest you say: ‘There came unto us no bringer of glad tidings and no warner.’ But now has come unto you a bringer of glad tidings and a warner. And Allaah is Able to do all things.” [al-Maa’idah 5:19] But they resisted the truth and turned away from it in sin, enmity and jealousy, after the truth had become clear to them. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Many of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) wish that if they could turn you away as disbelievers after you have believed, out of envy from their ownselves, even after the truth (that Muhammad is Allaah’s Messenger) has become manifest unto them” [al-Baqarah 2:109] “And when there came to them (the Jews), a Book (this Qur’aan) from Allaah confirming what is with them [the Tawraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)], although aforetime they had invoked Allaah (for coming of Muhammad ) in order to gain victory over those who disbelieved, then when there came to them that which they had recognized, they disbelieved in it. So let the Curse of Allaah be on the disbelievers.” [al-Baqarah 2:89] “And when there came to them a Messenger from Allaah 212

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(i.e. Muhammad) confirming what was with them, a party of those who were given the Scripture threw away the Book of Allaah behind their backs as if they did not know! [al-Baqarah 2:101] “Those who disbelieve from among the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) and AlMushrikoon, were not going to leave (their disbelief) until there came to them clear evidence. A Messenger (Muhammad ) from Allaah, reciting (the Qur’aan) purified pages [purified from AlBaatil (falsehood)].” [al-Bayyinah 98:1-2] How can any rational person who knows about their persistence in falsehood and their continuing to knowingly follow misguidance out of jealousy and their pursuit of their own desires, hope for a closer relationship between them and the truly believing Muslims? Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Do you (faithful believers) covet that they will believe in your religion inspite of the fact that a party of them (Jewish rabbis) used to hear the Word of Allaah [the Tawraat (Torah)], then they used to change it knowingly after they understood it? [al-Baqarah 2:75] “Verily, We have sent you (O Muhammad ) with the truth (Islam), a bringer of glad tidings (for those who believe in what you brought, that they will enter Paradise) and a warner (for those who disbelieve in what you brought, that they will enter the Hell-fire). And you will not be asked about the dwellers of the blazing Fire. Never will the Jews nor the Christians be pleased with 213

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you (O Muhammad) till you follow their religion. Say: ‘Verily, the Guidance of Allaah (i.e. Islamic Monotheism) that is the (only) Guidance. And if you (O Muhammad) were to follow their (Jews and Christians) desires after what you have received of Knowledge (i.e. the Qur’aan), then you would have against Allaah neither any Walee (protector or guardian) nor any helper.” [al-Baqarah 2:119-120] “How shall Allaah guide a people who disbelieved after their Belief and after they bore witness that the Messenger (Muhammad ) is true and after clear proofs had come unto them? And Allaah guides not the people who are Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers).” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:86] Even though they may not be worse in kufr and enmity towards Allaah than their fellow mushrikeen, they are still like them. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “So (O Muhammad ) obey you not the deniers [(of Islamic Monotheism those who belie the Verses of Allaah), the Oneness of Allaah, and the Messengership of Muhammad ]. They wish that you should compromise (in religion out of courtesy) with them, so they (too) would compromise with you [al-Qalam 68:8-9] “Say (O Muhammad to these Mushrikoon and Kaafiroon): ‘O AlKaafiroon (disbelievers in Allaah, in His Oneness, in His Angels, in His Books, in His Messengers, in the Day of Resurrection, and in AlQadar)! I worship not that which you worship, 214

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Nor will you worship that which I worship. And I shall not worship that which you are worshipping. Nor will you worship that which I worship. To you be your religion, and to me my religion (Islamic Monotheism).’” [al-Kaafiroon 109:1-6] The person who thinks of bringing Islam, Judaism and Christianity together, or bringing them closer to one another, is like one who strives to bring together the opposites of truth and falsehood, kufr (disbelief) and eemaan (faith). There is nothing like this except what the poet described: “O you who want Thurayyah (Pleiades) to marry Suhayl (Canopus) [names of stars and constellations], for Allaah’s sake, how could they meet? She appears in the north (lit. the direction of Syria) when she rises, and Suhayl when he rises appears in the south (lit. the direction of Yemen)!” Moreover, the religion of the Jews and Christians has been abrogated by Allaah when He sent the Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and Allaah obliged all the people of the earth, Jews Christians and others, to follow him. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Those who follow the Messenger, the Prophet who can neither read nor write (i.e. Muhammad) whom they find written with them in the Tauraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel) — he commands them for Al-Ma‘roof (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam has ordained); and forbids them from Al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, 215

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polytheism of all kinds, and all that Islam has forbidden); he allows them as lawful AtTayyibaat (i.e. all good and lawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons and foods), and prohibits them as unlawful AlKhabaa’ith (i.e. all evil and unlawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons and foods), he releases them from their heavy burdens (of Allaah’s Covenant with the children of Israel), and from the fetters (bindings) that were upon them. So those who believe in him (Muhammad ), honour him, help him, and follow the light (the Qur’aan) which has been sent down with him, it is they who will be successful. Say (O Muhammad): “O mankind! Verily, I am sent to you all as the Messenger of Allaah — to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). It is He Who gives life and causes death. So believe in Allaah and His Messenger (Muhammad ), the Prophet who can neither read nor write (i.e. Muhammad ), who believes in Allaah and His Words [(this Qur’aan), the Tauraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel) and also Allaah’s Word: “Be!” — and he was, i.e. ‘Eesaa (Jesus) son of Maryam (Mary)], and follow him so that you may be guided.” [al-A’raaf 7:157-158] If they persist in following their religion, which has been abrogated, then they are adhering to falsehood, not to true religion. So it is not permissible for the Muslims to get close to them, because by getting close to them they are approving of their falsehood on the one hand, and misleading the ignorant, on the other. What Muslims should do is expose their falsehood just as Allaah has exposed them in the Qur’aan. And Allaah knows best. Fourthly: Someone might say: can there not be a truce among them, or a peace treaty, so as to avoid bloodshed and the tragedies 216

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of war, and so that people may go about their business and earn a living, and that the world may be developed so that the call to truth and guidance may be given to all people, and so that justice may be established among all people? If someone were to say this, it is fair enough, and any efforts to achieve this would be valuable, for it is a noble aim, because it is possible and it would have a great impact on people. But this applies only when it is not possible to enforce the jizyah system, because Allaah says in Soorat al-Tawbah (interpretation of the meaning): “Fight against those who (1) believe not in Allaah, (2) nor in the Last Day, (3) nor forbid that which has been forbidden by Allaah and His Messenger (Muhammad), (4) and those who acknowledge not the religion of truth (i.e. Islam) among the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians), until they pay the Jizyah with willing submission, and feel themselves subdued” [al-Tawbah 9:29] At the same time, we must also make sure that we are striving to support the truth. This should not be an attempt on the part of the Muslims to appease the mushrikeen or to give up any of the rulings of Allaah, or anything that would entail their compromising their own dignity. The Muslims must retain their pride and their adherence to the Book of their Lord and the Sunnah of their Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him); they must continue to hate their enemies of Allaah and not befriend them, following the guidance of the Qur’aan and of the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “But if they incline to peace, you also incline to it, and (put your) trust in Allaah. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower” [al-Anfaal 8:61] “So do not become weak (against your enemy), nor be 217

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sad, and you will be superior (in victory) if you are indeed (true) believers. [Aal ‘Imraan 3:139] “So be not weak and ask not for peace (from the enemies of Islam) while you are having the upper hand. Allaah is with you, and He will never decrease the reward of your good deeds’ [Muhammad 47:35] Our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) explained that by his actions, and achieved it in his dealings with Quraysh in the year of (the treaty of) alHudaybiyah, with the Jews in Madeenah before alKhandaq and in the campaign of Khaybar, and with the Christians in the campaign of Tabook. Hence it had the great effect of bringing peace and security for everyone. Truth prevailed, he gained power in the land, people entered the religion of Allaah in crowds, and everyone was able to strive for his worldly and spiritual interests. This was a time of prosperity and power, when Islam and peace spread. History and real life provide stronger evidence and a more eloquent testimony to that effect, for those who are open-minded and objective, and who are free from tribalistic and argumentative thought. In that there is a reminder for the one who has a heart or gives ear while he is heedful (cf. Qaaf 50:37). And Allaah is the Guide to the Straight Path; He is Sufficient for us and He is the Best disposer of affairs. Al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 12/284-297 (www.islam-qa.com) 10213: Ruling on the call to unite all religions Question: What are Ruling on the call to unite all religions 218

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah Alone and peace and blessings be upon the one after whom there will be no more Prophets, and upon his family and companions and whoever follows them in truth until the Day of Resurrection. The Standing Committee on Academic Research and Issuing Fatwas (al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah li’l-Buhooth al‘Ilmiyyah wa’l-Iftaa’) has examined the questions which have been submitted to it and the opinions and articles published and broadcast in the media concerning the call to unite the three religions of Islam, Judaism and Christianity; and the call which stems from that, to build a mosque, a church and a synagogue in one place, on university campuses and in public squares; and the call to print the Qur’aan, Tawraat (Torah) and Injeel (Gospel) in one volume, etc.; and the conferences, seminars and meetings on this topic which are being held in the east and in the west. After studying and pondering the matter, the Committee issues the following statement: · (1) One of the basic principles of belief in Islam, something which is obviously a basic principle and on which all the Muslims are agreed (ijmaa’) is that there is no true religion on the face of the earth apart from Islam. It is the final religion which abrogates all religions and laws that came before it There is no religion on earth according to which Allaah is to be worshipped apart from Islam. Allaah says (interpretation of the meanings): “This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islâm as your religion” [al-Maa’idah 5:3] “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islâm, it will 219

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never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85]. After the coming of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), Islam means what he brought, not any other religion. · (2) One of the basic principles of belief in Islam is that the Book of Allaah, the Holy Qur’aan, is the last of the Books to be revealed from the Lord of the Worlds. It abrogates all the Books that came before it, the Tawraat, Zaboor, Injeel and others, and it is a Muhaymin [Muhaymin: that which testifies the truth that is therein and falsifies the falsehood that is added therein] over them. So there is no longer any revealed Book according to which Allaah may be worshipped apart from the Qur’aan. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the Book (this Qur’aan) in truth, confirming the Scripture that came before it and Muhaymin (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it (old Scriptures). So judge among them by what Allaah has revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging away from the truth that has come to you.” [al-Maa’idah 5:48] · (3) It is obligatory to believe that the Tawraat and Injeel have been abrogated by the Qur’aan, and that they have been altered and distorted, with things added and taken away, as Allaah tells us in the Qur’aan, for example (interpretation of the meaning): “So, because of their breach of their covenant, We cursed them and made their hearts grow hard. They change the words from their (right) places and have abandoned a good part of the Message that was sent to them. And you will not cease to discover deceit in them, except a few of them” [al-Maa’idah 5:13] 220

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“Then woe to those who write the Book with their own hands and then say, “This is from Allaah,” to purchase with it a little price! Woe to them for what their hands have written and woe to them for that they earn thereby.” [al-Baqarah 2:79] “And verily, among them is a party who distort the Book with their tongues (as they read), so that you may think it is from the Book, but it is not from the Book, and they say: “This is from Allaah,” but it is not from Allaah; and they speak a lie against Allaah while they know it” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:78] Hence, whatever in the previous books was correct is abrogated by Islam, and everything else is distorted and changed. It was reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) became angry when he saw that ‘Umar had a page with something from the Tawraat written on it, and he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Are you in doubt, O son of alKhattaab? Have I not brought you something shining and pure? If my brother Moosa were alive, he would have no choice but to follow me.” (Narrated by Ahmad and alDaarimi, and others). · (4) One of the basic principles of belief in Islam is that our Prophet and Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is the Seal of the Prophets and Messengers, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): · “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allaah and the last (end) of the Prophets” [al-Ahzaab 33:40] So there is no longer any Messenger whom it is obligatory to follow, apart from Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). If any of the Prophets were alive, 221

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they would have no choice but to follow him, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And (remember) when Allaah took the Covenant of the Prophets, saying: ‘Take whatever I gave you from the Book and Hikmah (understanding of the Laws of Allaah), and afterwards there will come to you a Messenger (Muhammad) confirming what is with you; you must, then, believe in him and help him.’ Allaah said: ‘Do you agree (to it) and will you take up My Covenant (which I conclude with you)?’ They said: ‘We agree.’ He said: ‘Then bear witness; and I am with you among the witnesses (for this).’” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:81] When the Prophet of Allaah ‘Eesaa (peace be upon him) descends at the end of time, he will follow Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and he will judge according to his Sharee’ah. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning); “Those who follow the Messenger, the Prophet who can neither read nor write (i.e. Muhammad) whom they find written with them in the Tauraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel) — he commands them for Al-Ma‘roof (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam has ordained); and forbids them from Al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism of all kinds, and all that Islam has forbidden); he allows them as lawful AtTayyibaat (i.e. all good and lawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons and foods), and prohibits them as unlawful AlKhabaa’ith (i.e. all evil and unlawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons and foods), he releases them from their heavy burdens (of Allaah’s Covenant with the children of Israel), and from the fetters (bindings) that were upon them. So those who believe in him (Muhammad), honour him, help him, and follow the light (the Qur’aan) which has been sent down with him, it is they who will be successful” [al-A’raaf 7:157] 222

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It is also one of the basic principles of belief in Islam that the Message of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is addressed to all of mankind. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And We have not sent you (O Muhammad) except as a giver of glad tidings and a warner to all mankind, but most of men know not” [Saba’ 34:28] “Say (O Muhammad): “O mankind! Verily, I am sent to you all as the Messenger of Allaah” [al-A’raaf 7:158]. And there are many similar aayaat. · (5) One of the basic principles of belief in Islam is that we must believe that every Jew, Christian or other person who does not enter Islam is a kaafir, and that those against whom proof is established must be named as kaafirs and regarded as enemies of Allaah, His Messenger and the believers, and that they are the people of Hell, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): · “Those who disbelieve from among the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) and AlMushrikoon, were not going to leave (their disbelief) until there came to them clear evidence” [al-Bayyinah 98:1] “Verily, those who disbelieve (in the religion of Islâm, the Qur’ân and Prophet Muhammad) from among the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) and AlMushrikoon will abide in the fire of Hell. They are the worst of creatures” [al-Bayyinah 98:6] “This Qur’aan has been revealed to me that I may therewith warn you and whomsoever it may reach” [al-An’aam 6:19] 223

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“This (Qur’aan) is a Message for mankind (and a clear proof against them), in order that they may be warned thereby” [Ibraaheem 14:52]. And there are many similar aayaat. It was reported in Saheeh Muslim that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “By the One in Whose hand is my soul, no one among this nation, Jew or Christian, hears of me, then dies without having believed in that with which I was sent, but he will be one of the people of the Fire.” Hence whoever does not regard the Jews and Christians as kuffaar is himself a kaafir, according to the ruling of Sharee’ah, “Whoever does not regard the kaafir as such after proof has been established against him is himself a kaafir.” · (6) In the light of these basic principles of belief and the rulings of sharee’ah, calling for the uniting of all religions, and for them to be brought close to one another and cast in the same mould, is an evil and crafty call whose aim is to mix truth with falsehood, to destroy Islam and undermine its pillars, and to tempt its followers into total apostasy. This is confirmed by the words of the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning): · “And they will never cease fighting you until they turn you back from your religion (Islamic Monotheism) if they can” [al-Baqarah 2:217] “They wish that you reject Faith, as they have rejected (Faith), and thus that you all become equal (like one another)” [al-Nisaa’ 4:89] · (7) Among the effects of this evil call would be the cancelling out of the differences between Islam and kufr, truth and falsehood, good and evil. It would break down the psychological barrier that exists between the Muslims and the kaafirs, and there would be no sense of al-Walaa’ wa’l-Baraa’ (loyalty and friendship towards Muslims, disavowal and enmity towards kaafirs), or jihaad and 224

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fighting to make the word of Allaah supreme in the earth of Allaah. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): · “Fight against those who (1) believe not in Allaah, (2) nor in the Last Day, (3) nor forbid that which has been forbidden by Allaah and His Messenger (Muhammad( (4) and those who acknowledge not the religion of truth (i.e. Islâm) among the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians), until they pay the Jizyah with willing submission, and feel themselves subdued” [al-Tawbah 9:29] “and fight against the Mushrikoon (polytheists, pagans, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allaah) collectively as they fight against you collectively. But know that Allaah is with those who are AlMuttaqoon (the pious)” [al-Tawbah 9:36] “O you who believe! Take not as (your) Bitaanah (advisors, consultants, protectors, helpers, friends) those outside your religion (pagans, Jews, Christians, and hypocrites) since they will not fail to do their best to corrupt you. They desire to harm you severely. Hatred has already appeared from their mouths, but what their breasts conceal is far worse. Indeed We have made plain to you the Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses) if you understand” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:118] · (8) If the call to unite the religions is made by a Muslim, this considered to be blatant apostasy from the religion of Islam, because it conflicts with the basic principles of belief. It is an acceptance of disbelief in Allaah and a contradiction of the truth of the Qur’aan and its abrogation of all laws and religions that came before it. On this basis, it is an idea that should be rejected from the point of view of sharee’ah, and it is definitely haraam according to the evidence of Islam, Qur’aan, Sunnah and ijmaa’ (scholarly consensus). 225

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· (9) Based on the above: · (i) It is not permissible for a Muslim who believes in Allaah as his Lord, Islam as his religion and Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) as his Prophet and Messenger, to call people to this evil idea, to encourage it or to propagate it among the Muslims, let alone respond to it or join the conferences and gatherings held to promote it. · (ii) It is not permissible for a Muslim to print the Tawraat and Injeel on their own, so how about printing them with the Qur’aan in one volume? Whoever does this or calls for it is far astray, because by doing so he is combining truth (the Qur’aan) with that which is either distorted or was true but has now been abrogated (the Tawraat and Injeel). · (iii) Similarly, it is not permissible for a Muslim to respond to the call to build a mosque, church and synagogue in one place, because this involves recognizing a religion in which Allaah is worshipped other than Islam, and rejecting the idea that Islam should prevail over all other religions, and giving the idea that there are three religions and that it is OK for people to belong to any of these three. This is a kind of equality which implies that Islam does not abrogate the religions that came before it. Undoubtedly, if a person approves of this, believes it or accepts it, this is kufr and misguidance, because it clearly goes against the Qur’aan, the Sunnah and the consensus (ijmaa’) of the Muslims and implies that the distortions of the Jews and Christians come from Allaah – exalted be He far above that. By the same token, it is not permitted to call churches “Houses of God” or to say that the people there are worshipping Allaah in a correct and acceptable manner, because this worship is not done according to the religion of Islam, and Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 226

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· “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85]. · On the contrary, they are houses in which disbelief (kufr) in Allaah is expressed; we seek refuge with Allaah from kufr and its people. Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in Majmoo’ al-Fataawaa (22/162): “They – churches and synagogues – are not houses of Allaah; the houses of Allaah are the mosques. On the contrary, they are houses in which disbelief (kufr) in Allaah is expressed. Even if Allaah is mentioned therein, houses are the same as the people in them, and the people in these houses are kuffaar, so they are the houses of worship of the kuffaar.” · (10) It should be noted that it is obligatory on the Muslims to call the kuffaar in general, and the People of the Book in particular, to Islam through the clear texts of the Qur’aan and Sunnah. But this is only to be done by explaining to them and arguing with them in a way that is better (with good words and in a good manner) (cf. Al‘Ankaboot 29:46), not by compromising any of the beliefs of laws of Islam. This is in order to convince them about Islam and bring them into the religion, or to establish proof against them so that those who are to be destroyed (for their rejecting the Faith) might be destroyed after a clear evidence, and those who are to live (i.e. believers) might live after a clear evidence (cf. Al-Anfaal 8:42). Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): · “Say (O Muhammad ): “O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians): Come to a word that is just between us and you, that we worship none but Allaah (Alone), and that we associate no partners with Him, and that none of us shall take others as lords besides Allaah. Then, if they turn away, say: “Bear witness that we are Muslims.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:64] 227

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· As for debating and meeting with them in order to go along with their wishes and fulfil their aims of destroying Islam bit by bit, this is falsehood which is rejected by Allaah, His Messenger and the believers, and Allaah is the One Whose help is sought against all that they ascribe to Him. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “but beware of them lest they turn you (O Muhammad) far away from some of that which Allaah has sent down to you” [al-Maa’idah 5:49] The Committee has made the above statement to the people. We advise the Muslims in general, and people of knowledge in particular, to fear Allaah and be aware that He is always watching, to guard Islam and to protect the ‘aqeedah (belief) of the Muslims from misguidance and those who promote it and from kufr and its people, and to beware of this idea. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 10212: Is the fact that Christians live among Muslims sufficient for the Message to have been conveyed to them? Question: In a previous answer, you mentioned that whoever among the Jews and Christians hears the Message of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and comes to know of it, then does not follow it, is a kaafir, and they will be dealt with as such in this world and in the Hereafter. As you know, in our country there are many Christians and followers of other religions. Is the fact that they are present in this Muslim country sufficient to convey the Message to them? 228

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. The fact that they are present in a Muslim country means that they will be considered as being among those who have heard the Message of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and the appropriate rulings will apply to them, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “… this Qur’aan has been revealed to me that I may therewith warn you and whomsoever it may reach…” [alAn’aam 6:19] And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “By the One in Whose Hand is my soul, no one of this nation, Jew or Christian, will hear of me then die without believing in that with which I have been sent, but he will be one of the people of Hell.” (Narrated by Muslim). From Fataawaa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 12/252 (www.islam-qa.com) 10199: Is it permissible to give books containing aayaat from the Qur’aan to Christians? Question: Is it permissible for me to give to Christians books which contain aayaat of the Qur’aan that prove the Oneness of Allaah, which are written in Arabic with the translation of the meaning written in English? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 229

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Yes, it is permissible for you to give them books containing aayaat from the Qur’aan and to use (these quotations) to prove various issues, Tawheed and others, whether this is in Arabic or the meanings are translated. This is a deed for which you are to be commended, because giving them or lending them to them is a kind of conveying the message and calling them to Allaah (da’wah). The one who does this will be rewarded if his intention is sincere. From Fataawaa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 12/251 (www.islam-qa.com) 8798: Is it permissible to accept an invitation to a meal from a non-Muslim in order to get close to him? Question: Calling people to Islam means establishing personal relationships with the Kuffaar, in the first place to break the ice and pave the way for da’wah. If one of them invites me to eat or drink something that contains nothing haraam, such as cheese, fish and tea, is it permissible for me to eat or drink it? What if there is the possibility that the vessels have been used before that to serve pork or wine – even though they have been washed with soap and water? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Relationships between people are of different kinds. If the Muslim has a relationship of friendship, love and brotherhood with a kaafir, this is haraam and may be kufr. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 230

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“You (O Muhammad) will not find any people who believe in Allaah and the Last Day, making friendship with those who oppose Allaah and His Messenger (Muhammad), even though they were their fathers or their sons or their brothers or their kindred (people). For such He has written Faith in their hearts, and strengthened them with Rooh (proofs, light and true guidance) from Himself. And He will admit them to Gardens (Paradise) under which rivers flow, to dwell therein (forever). Allaah is pleased with them, and they with Him. They are the party of Allaah. Verily, it is the party of Allaah that will be the successful” [al-Mujaadilah 58:22] And there are other aayaat and ahaadeeth which convey the same meaning. If it is a relationship based on selling or buying, or accepting an invitation to eat halaal food, or accepting a gift of something that is permissible, for example, without that having an influence on the Muslim, then this is permitted and it is permissible to eat the food offered by a kaafir to a Muslim if the food and drink are halaal. Even if it is presented in a vessel which has previously been used for drinking wine or eating pork, etc., it is still permissible to take it, so long as the vessel has been washed after being used for haraam or naajis (impure) things and all traces of them have been completely removed. If this will help to convey the message of Islam, this is a stronger reason why these invitations should be accepted and these relationships upheld, and there is more hope that there will be a reward in this case. From Fataawaa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 12/254 (www.islam-qa.com) 231

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9455: She is thinking of becoming Muslim, and is asking how she could perform the prayers at school Question: I am a teenager who is very interested in Islam. I am thinking of becoming a Muslim, but I do not know how I will be able to do the prayers at school. Please help me. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We thank you very much for sending this question to us, and we urge you to hasten to enter Islam, for Allaah does not accept any other religion. We also give you the glad tidings of a good future and good life if you enter this religion. With regard to your question, we would like to answer it with another question, by which we do not mean anything silly or foolish: If a student needs to go to the bathroom urgently during class, what does he do? The obvious answer is: he asks the teacher for permission and leaves the room. Praying on time is more important than answering the call of nature. We would remind you of the following points: Firstly: the times for prayer in Islam are long, praise be to Allaah. For example, the time for the Zuhr (midday) prayer – which is the prayer time which usually comes during the school day) does not end until the time for ‘Asr (midafternoon) prayer begins, so you can pray Zuhr from the time when the sun is at its zenith until the time when the shadow of an object is equal to its length. This time is a 232

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period of hours, not minutes, so there is bound to be an opportunity to pray within this time. Secondly: there are usually breaks between classes; even if the break is only five minutes, you can make the most of it. There are also breaks for recess and for lunch during which you could pray. Otherwise you could pray after school is over and before the time for the prayer ends. Or you could ask the teacher for permission to leave before the class finishes so that you can go and pray. In some countries there are laws which enable the followers of different religions to practise the observances of their faiths at a specific time during the work or school day, so you could avail yourself of these laws if they exist. Whatever the case, whoever fears Allaah and does his duty towards Him, Allaah will show him a way out and make things easier for him. When Allaah knows that a Muslim is keen to do the obligatory actions, He will help him. Finally, we would like to thank you once again for your question. We ask Allaah to guide you to the way of truth sooner rather than later, and to grant you good health and keep you safe and sound. May He grant you strength and success in your life and keep you safe from all evils. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad and all his family and companions. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 3408: Stories of women who became Muslim and left their kaafir husbands Question: I know that Muslim women are not allowed in Islam to marry non-Muslim men; there is a sister on a converts list who recently became Muslim and who was asking 233

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what to do regarding her non-Muslim husband who accepted her conversion without any problems and who also lets her educate the children the Islamic way. However, when she asked for an advice, most of us told her that the husband has to take shahada or she should not remained married to him otherwise. Unfortunately, some other people don’t believe so and advised her the opposite way, that she just should remain with the husband and so on,.... I would like you to send me concrete cases at the time of the Prophet (SAW) where Muslim women (sahabyate) would leave their non-Muslim husbands if those decided not to convert. I think those cases would be the only proof to convince the people of that list that Muslim women are not allowed to marry or remain married to non-Muslims men even though they are not against the woman’s conversion. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. What you have said in your question about it being haraam for a Muslim woman to marry a kaafir man is correct, and there is no doubt concerning that. · Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And give not (your daughters) in marriage to AlMushrikoon till they believe” [al-Baqarah 2:221] Al-Qurtubi said: “ ‘And give not (your daughters) in marriage’ means, do not give Muslim women in marriage to Mushrik men. The ummah is agreed that a Mushrik should not marry a Muslim woman because this is like putting Islam in an inferior position. (Tafseer al-Qurtubi, 3/72). 234

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· Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “They are not lawful (wives) for the disbelievers nor are the disbelievers lawful (husbands) for them” [alMumtahanah 60:10] Al-Bukhaari (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: Chapter: when a mushrik or Christian woman who is married to a dhimmi (non-Muslim living under Muslim rule) or a harbi (non-Muslim belonging to a people who are hostile towards Islam) becomes Muslim. ‘Abd alWaarith said, narrating from Khaalid from ‘Ikrimah from Ibn ‘Abbaas: if a Christian woman becomes Muslim shortly before her husband, she is forbidden for him… Mujaahid said: if he becomes Muslim during the ‘iddah [waiting period following divorce], then he may (re)marry her. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “They are not lawful (wives) for the disbelievers nor are the disbelievers lawful (husbands) for them” [alMumtahanah 60:10]. Al-Hasan and Qutaadah said concerning two Magians who became Muslim that their marriage was still valid. If one of them had become Muslim and the other had refused, the woman would have been divorced and he would no longer have any rights over her. (Saheeh al-Bukhaari. See al-Fath, 9/421). · Examples of such women include: Zaynab, the daughter of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). She was married to Abu’l-‘Aas ibn al-Rabee’ during the Jaahiliyyah, but when she became Muslim, their marriage was annulled, and she went and stayed with her father (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). When her husband became Muslim, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sent her back to him. 235

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(Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1143; Abu Dawood, 2240; Ibn Maajah, 2009; classed as saheeh by Imaam Ahmad, 1789. Al-Tirmidhi said, there is nothing wrong with its isnaad). The correct view is that the husband can go back to her with no need to renew the marriage contract. If the woman is still in her ‘iddah, he has more right (than anyone else) to marry her. If her ‘iddah has ended, she is free to choose whether to go back to him or not. Al-Tirmidhi said: On the basis of this hadeeth, the scholars said that if a woman becomes Muslim before her husband, then her husband becomes Muslim whilst she is still in her ‘iddah, then the husband has more right to her whilst she is still in her ‘iddah. This is the view of Maalik ibn Anas, alOozaa’i, al-Shaafa’i, Ahmad and Ishaaq. (Sunan alTirmidhi, Hadeeth 1142). Ibn ‘Abd al-Barr said: There is no dispute among the scholars concerning the fact that if a kaafir woman becomes Muslim then her ‘iddah ends, her husband has no rights concerning her if he has not become Muslim during her ‘iddah. (Al-Tamheed, 12/23). Ibn al-Qayyim said: But what the ruling of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) indicates is that the marriage comes to a halt. If he becomes Muslim before the end of her ‘iddah, then she is (still) his wife, but if her ‘iddah ends, then she may marry whomever she wants. If she likes, she can wait for him, and if he becomes Muslim she is his wife and there is no need to renew the marriage contract. (Zaad al-Ma’aad, 5/137, 138) 236

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Al-Qurtubi said: Talhah ibn ‘Ubayd-Allaah was married to Arwaa bint Rabee’ah ibn al-Haarith ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib. They were separated by Islam, then in Islam Khaalid ibn Sa’eed ibn al-‘Aas married her. She was one of the [Muslim] wives of the kuffaar who fled to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) kept her in Madinah and married her to Khaalid. (Tafseer al-Qurtubi, 18/65, 66) It was reported that Anas said: Abu Talhah married Umm Sulaym and the mahr between them was Islam. Umm Sulaym became Muslim before Abu Talhah. He proposed marriage to her and she said, “I have become Muslim. If you become Muslim I will marry you.” So he became Muslim and that was the mahr between them. (Narrated by al-Nasaa’i, 3340) The daughter of al-Waleed ibn al-Magheerah, the wife of Safwaan ibn Umayyah, became Muslim before him, and the marriage was annulled. Then he became Muslim later on, and she went back to him. It was narrated by Maalik in al-Muwatta’, 1132. Ibn ‘Abd al-Barr said: I do not know of any unbroken saheeh isnaad for this hadeeth, but it is famous and well known to the scholars of seerah, Ibn Shihaab, the leader of the scholars of seerah, and alShu’bi. The fame of this hadeeth is stronger than its isnaad in sha Allaah. (al-Tamheed, 12/19) Umm Hakeem bint al-Haarith ibn Hishaam, the wife of ‘Ikrimah ibn Abi Jahl. Her marriage was annulled, then he became Muslim during her ‘iddah, so she went back to her husband. 237

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(Narrated by Ibn Abi Shaybah in al-Musannaf, 4/107) And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 1036: It is not permissible to call kuffaar to Islam by means of religious songs (nasheeds) accompanied by musical instruments Question: When we want to attract Christians to Islam, is it permissible to use religious songs accompanied by music? Is it permissible to have a group called a religious group because they sing religious songs accompanied by musical instruments? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. In my opinion there is no need to attract people in this manner; you should use permissible means such as listening to Qur’aan with proper tajweed and tarteel (correct recitation) and listening to eloquent ahaadeeth which move the listener, and beneficial, moving poems (qaseedahs) and nasheeds. You can also provide clear proof of what is good about Islam and explain its teachings and noble aims which will demonstrate that it is the religion that befits the natural inclinations of man (deen al-fitrah) and encompasses all the interests of mankind. Whoever can only be attracted by things that include 238

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forbidden elements such as singing, instruments and music is no good and I do not think that he can be attracted to Islam at all. And Allaah knows best. From al-Lu’lu’ al-Makeen min Fataawaa Ibn Jibreen, p. 28 (www.islam-qa.com) 7849: asking what is our religion Question: define religion? define whats is the imprtance of society in islam.how other religion Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Our religion is Islam. It is the religion revealed to our Prophet Mohammd, praising and peace of Allah (God) be upon him. He told us to worship non-but Allah and to believe and follow the teaching of the Quran, the Holy Book. He ordered us to do good and stay away from evil. Islam is based on five pillars, which are: To believe there is no god but Allah and that Mohammad is his slave and messenger, to pray five times in a night and day in fixed times, to fast the month of Ramadan, to give alms to the poor and to perform pilgrimage at least once in a life time. Islam rules everything in our lives. A society must go by the teaching of Islam in order to reach perfection. Islam governs the relationship between a Muslim and the environment, the people around him and even the animals. Islam has a say in everything in our lives and the more you apply it to your life, the better you feel. 239

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Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 6706: He wants to become Muslim but he is worried that he will not be able to do the prayers at work Question: I am very interested in Islam and I know for certain that it is the one true religion. But, I am definitely going to join the United States Army. I wouldn’t have time for prayer at the correct times during the day due to training, etc. Still, I want to become a muslim as soon as possible because death could come at any time, but I am unsure I could stick to the strict praying schedule in the Army. Any advice? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. And again, praise be to Allaah for having blessed you with this conviction about the religion of Islam. Hasten to enter this religion now, no matter what your circumstances, and know that entering Islam is the first duty that you must do. A man who was clad in armour came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and said, “O Messenger of Allaah, should I fight or should I become Muslim?” He said, “Become Muslim, then fight.” So the man became Muslim, then he fought, and he was killed. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “He did little but his reward will be great.” (Reported by alBukhaari, 2597). He told him to enter Islam before he 240

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fought to make the word of Allaah prevail, even though the man came to him at the time of battle when the kuffaar had arrived to wage war against the Muslims. So know that there no difficulties should make you delay becoming Muslim, for once you become Muslim Allaah will make it easy for you to do the five prayers on time and other duties, so long as your intention towards Allaah is sincere and you ask Him to help you, as the Muslim always says in his prayer (interpretation of the meaning): “You (Alone) we worship, and You (Alone) we ask for help (for each and everything).” [al-Faatihah 1:5] The times of the five daily prayers are fairly broad, alhamdu Lillaah, and you can do the prayer in any part of the time prescribed. If a person can take a few minutes to relieve himself in the washroom, surely it is more important that he be allowed to take a few minutes to do his prayer. Moreover in many parts of the West the individual is granted the right to freedom of worship, so you could utilize this to demand your right to practise your religion and do your prayers on time. We ask Allaah to open the gates of goodness to you and to make matters easy for you. May He decree for you success in this world and the next, for Allaah is the Owner of great Bounty. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 6703: It is easy to enter Islam Question: My father is African American and my mother is white and i have done a lot of research on this religion i am 16 241

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and i really want to become a muslim i wanted to know if i could be one? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Among the beauties of Islam is the fact that in this religion there are no intermediaries in the relationship between a person and his Lord. Entering this religion does not involve any special ceremonies or procedures that need to be done in front of any other person, nor does it require the consent of any specific people. Becoming Muslim is very easy and anyone can do it even if he is all alone in the desert or in a locked room. All it takes is to say two beautiful sentences which sum up the meaning of Islam and which include the statement that a person is the slave of his Lord and that he submits himself to Him and recognizes that He is his God and Helper and Protector Who decrees for him whatever He wills; and that Muhammad is the slave and Messenger of Allaah whom he must follow with regard to what was revealed to him from Allaah, for obeying the Messenger is part of obeying Allaah. Whoever utters these twin statements of faith, with conviction and believing in them, becomes a Muslim, sharing all the rights and duties that other Muslims have. After that he can start straight away to do the things that Allaah has made obligatory, such as the five daily prayers at the right times, fasting during the month of Ramadaan, and so on. From this it should be clear to you that you can become a Muslim straight away, so get up, have a shower and say: “Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasooluhu (I bear witness that there is no god except Allaah and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger).” For more information, see those who want to become Muslim . May Allaah help you to do all that is good and guide your steps aright. May He decree for you happiness in this 242

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world and the next. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 5421: Interested in Islam Question: I wonder if you could perhaps help me. I am currently studying Islam at school, and have become interested in the religion. I wonder if maybe you could e-mail me your views on the religion, and your thoughts on why I should become a Muslim? I know you are overloaded with questions from Muslims already, but if you could find a moment to email me I would be extremely grateful. Thank you. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Thank you for your nice letter. We are happy to respond to your request, and we are especially pleased to hear of your interest in the religion of Islam. We suggest that if you study the contrast between Islam and other religions, you will see the superiority of this religion over all others, in terms of its comprehensiveness, solid foundations, approach to issues, the soundness of its message and the justice of its rules. (Please also see Questions #s 219 and 3143). This superiority alone is sufficient reason for anyone to embrace Islam, let alone the fact that Islam has superceded all other religions, and Allaah does not accept any other religion from His slaves, as He says (interpretation of the meaning): “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islaam, it will 243

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never be accepted of him, and in the hereafter he will be one of the losers.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85] For more information on this topic, please see Questions #s 4548, 4524, 6389, 2585 and 4319). You are welcome to ask questions at any time and to visit this site and benefit from it. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 5424: Her sister’s resistance towards Islam Question: Al-HAmdu Lillah, Allah has guided me to Islam nine years ago. Now, my sister is also interested in Islam, but she also seems so resistent. She asks questions that are not relevant (like, she asked me why does the women inherit half of what the man does? I said because the man is supposed to support her financially. She said what if she were the one who is working? I said in any circumstance it is the male who is supposed to support her, and when he inherits wealth, then he supports her even if she has an independent income.) she would also ask what happens to souls when you sleep? I said Allah takes them.{according to what I have read}, she said so sometimes we wake up during the night, doesn’t this contradict? I said NO!, and I told her that I am not knowledgeable about those things, and that there are more important things to know, such as matters of Aqeedah, worship, fiqh and so on. She said so how are you supposed to know that you are on the right path? 244

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All these discussions make me feel she is drifting away from Islam. I try to give her books, but she does not read. Yet she always wants me to tell her things. Also, my mother is trying to break up between us because she does not want me to talk to her about ISlam. Today she told me if I continue to talk to my sister about Islam, she will cut all ties between us. My mother also insults ISlam and the Prophet (sallahu alayhe wa salam)infront of me and she is trying to make me remove my niqab. I don’t know what to do? Now my mother is leaving the country and taking my sister with her. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. You have to keep calling your sister to Islam, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Invite (mankind, O Muhammad) to the way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Revelation and the Qur’aan) and fair preaching” [al-Nahl 16:125]. You have to bear your mother’s insults with patience, as Allaah commanded His Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to do, when He said (interpretation of the meaning): “So bear patiently (O Muhammad) what they say, and glorify the praises of your Lord before the rising of the sun, and before its setting…” [Ta-Ha 20:130] Do not feel sad because your sister has turned away, or regret the time you have spent in calling her to Islam if 245

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she does not respond. As Allaah said to His Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) (interpretation of the meaning): “So destroy not yourself (O Muhammad) in sorrow for them)” [Fatir 35:8] “Perhaps you would kill yourself (o Muhammad) in grief, over their footsteps (for their turning away from you), because they believe not in this narrated (the Qur’aan).” [al-Kahf 18:6]. As for your answers to her questions, they are correct. With regard to waking up at night, although Allaah takes people’s souls when they sleep, there is no contradiction between the two, for the One Who is able to take the soul is able to put it back. This is why it is mustahabb for the person who wakes up from sleep to say: “Al-hamdu Lillaah illadhi radda ‘alayya roohi wa ‘afaani fi jasadi wa adhina li bi dhikrihi (Praise be to Allaah Who has returned my soul to me, kept my body healthy, and given me permission to remember Him).” (Classed as Hasan by al-Albaani, Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1/329) With regard to the inheritance of women – as you say, women are not responsible for spending on others; that is the duty of men, who have to pay the mahr and provide accommodation for their womenfolk, etc. Women wait for someone else to take the initiative, unlike men. So it is not fair for them to receive the same share in the case of inheritance. Allaah is the most just of those who are just and the most wise of those who pass judgement. I ask Allaah to make you steadfast (in Islam) and to reward you for your da’wah. You have to be gentle with them and not do anything to provoke them. Do not insult their religion, for that could provoke them to insult the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). And Allaah is the source of strength. 246

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Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 5452: She has a tattoo from before she was Muslim Question: When I was kafir I got a tattoo on my shoulder.Alhumdillah I am now Muslim, My husband is fine about it Alhumdillah, however we would like it removed. To have it removed by laser is expensive and I believe it requires burning of the skin and I do not want to rule out for myself being of thoes who will enter Jena without account. Inshallah I have repented, is there anymore I really need to do? Jazak Allah Khair. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Praise be to Allaah Who has guided you to His Straight Path. I ask Allaah to make you steadfast in following it. As for this tattoo which cannot be removed except through this kind of surgery, you do not have to do this, because it is too difficult and will cause pain and hurt. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning); “… and [Allaah] has not laid upon you in religion any hardship…” [al-Hajj 22:78]. Your regret and dislike of that, and your determination never to do it again is sufficient. Also, Islam wipes out what came before, so in this case leaving it as it is should not cause you any harm, in sha Allaah. May Allaah help you to do that which He loves and which pleases Him. 247

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Chapter 5 6389: You have to do it: do it and don’t hesitate Question: Hello, I’m a 27 year old student from Bloomington, Indiana in the United States. I have discovered through many months of careful study and furious debate with the Christianity I was raised with that Islam is no doubt the clear, complete, and true word of the Almighty God. I had a furious struggle with Jesus but as I began to look upon his actual words in my new testament I found that they were completely, 100% in line with the Qur’an! I have not taken shahada and to be honest, I’m still a bit hesitant to. It is hard to describe the feeling one has toward the Christian faith after it’s been drilled into you from the time of your birth for a solid quarter of a century. I am taking arabic classes this summer and am planning to enroll at Cales in sana’a in Yemen next summer for further study. My question is do I really need to take the final step because the Qur’an says that Christians who are dutiful will receive their reward. I question my ability to adhere to all the elements of Shari’a. The prayers, the mannerisms, the relationships with women, diets, etc. Is it necessary that I take this step and if I did, would I have to take an Islamic name, or is that simply receomended? Following that, would the name Ishmael be appropriate? Thank you Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We appreciate your question and your efforts in studying 249

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and researching very much, especially since you have achieved such great and true results. Although we believe most strongly that it is essential to become Muslim and that Islam is the only religion which Allaah will accept, because He revealed it as the final religion and way, we do understand something of the difficulty involved in leaving that which one is used to. But the wise person knows that he has to follow the truth even if it becomes clear to him after many years and even if he grew up in a different way. Hence Allaah condemned those who refused to follow the truth because they were following the ways of their forefathers. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): ”And when it is said to them: “Come to what Allaah has revealed and unto the Messenger (Muhammad for the verdict of that which you have made unlawful).” They say: “Enough for us is that which we found our fathers following,” even though their fathers had no knowledge whatsoever and nor guidance” [al-Maa’idah 5:104] ”And when it is said to them: “Follow that which Allaah has sent down”, they say: “Nay, we shall follow that which we found our fathers (following).” (Would they do so) even if Shaytaan (Satan) invites them to the torment of the Fire?” [Luqmaan 31:21] ”And similarly, We sent not a warner before you (O Muhammad) to any town (people) but the luxurious ones among them said: “We found our fathers following a certain way and religion, and we will indeed follow their footsteps.” (The warner) said: “Even if I bring you better guidance than that which you found your fathers following?” [al-Zukhruf 43:23-24] The matter will not be too difficult for you - in sha Allaah (if Allaah wills) - for indeed if you believe in Islaam you will be believing in all of the previous Prophets, and you 250

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will be believing in the Divine Books. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): ”O you who believe! Believe in Allaah, and His Messenger (Muhammad), and the Book (the Qur’aan) which He has sent down to His Messenger, and the Scripture which He sent down to those before (him); and whosoever disbelieves in Allaah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, and the Last Day, then indeed he has strayed far away” [al-Nisa’ 4:136] If you become Muslim, you will not be cut off from the sound roots, for every Muslim believes in the Messiah ‘Eesa (Jesus) - peace be upon him - as a Prophet and Messenger, and he believes in the true Gospel - before it was distorted - as a Book that was revealed by Allaah. Maybe it will encourage you to know that everyone who used to believe in ‘Eesa and then believes in Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) will have the reward twice. Hence when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sent his letter to Heraclius, the Christian ruler of Byzantium, inviting him to Islam, he said: ”In the Name of Allaah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. From Muhammad the slave and Messenger of Allaah, to Heraclius the ruler of Byzantium. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. I invite you with the call of Islam. Become Muslim and you will be safe. Become Muslim and Allaah will give you your reward twice, but if you refuse, then the sin of the husbandmen will be upon you. ‘Say (O Muhammad): “O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians): Come to a word that is just between us and you, that we worship none but Allaah (Alone), and that we associate no partners with Him, and that none of us shall take others as lords besides Allaah. Then, if they turn away, say: “Bear witness that we are 251

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Muslims.” [Aal ‘Imraan 64 - interpretation of the meaning].” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 2723) The Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There are three who will be given their reward twice: a man from among the People of the Book who believed in his Prophet, then when he comes to know of the Prophet [Muhammad] (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), then he believes in him and follows him; he will have two rewards…” (The hadeeth was narrated by Muslim, 219). On the basis of the above, the answer to your question is: yes, it is very important, indeed essential, for you to take this step which will change your life, bringing you a life of joy and tranquillity through being close to Allaah and believing in His Oneness (Tawheed), having the pleasure of worshipping and remembering Him, and earning reward by obeying Him and saving these rewards for the Day when man will need every single reward: ”On the Day when every person will be confronted with all the good he has done, and all the evil he has done, he will wish that there were a great distance between him and his evil. And Allaah warns you against Himself (His punishment) and Allaah is full of kindness to (His) slaves” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:30 - interpretation of the meaning] With regard to your name, if it has no meanings that involve Shirk (associating others with Allaah) or Kufr (disbelief), then it is permissible for you to keep your name. The name Ismaa’eel (Ishmael) is very suitable; how could it be otherwise when Ismaa’eel was a Prophet of Allaah of whom Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): ”And mention in the Book (the Qur’aan) Ismaa’eel 252

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(Ishmael). Verily, he was true to what he promised, and he was a Messenger, (and) a Prophet. And he used to enjoin on his family and his people As-Salaat (the prayers) and the Zakaat, and his Lord was pleased with him” [Maryam 19:54-55] We ask Allaah to help us and you to do that which He loves and which pleases Him, and to guide us to the Straight Path, for Allaah guides whom He wills and He knows best those who are guided. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 4685: Feelings of a Christian man of religion towards his daughter’s Islam Question: I am a Christian minister—Yet I feel that after reading your teaching on ,”how to treat your wife”,was exllent in our creators eyes . I know that we have different vieues on The Holy One who has made us.Yet I am a student of the scriptures, but also student to understanding. I have a daughter who married a muslim. I don’t even know if I’m right in ,the case of calling my son-law a musilm. For he is a devoted to the teaching of the Koran. Lately I had a discussion with my daughter. Remember this I do not preach that she has made the wrong mistake, or try to force my oppinion on her.I love her,and my son -inlaw as well. I need to not preach what I believe,but my actions should show love. I thank you and all our brothers ,that we shall know the truth together. Again I hope and pray for peace. Yours in Loving of the Brotherhood … 253

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We thank you very much for expressing these kind feelings. The fact that you have not stood in the way of your daughter and her husband in their following of Islam is indicative of your fair mindedness and respect for the beliefs of others. At the same time, we cannot hide our wish that you could join us and your daughter and her husband in following this religion, the great religion of Islam. We know that the matter may appear difficult, especially for a man who represents and studies another religion, but who knows, maybe this study will be followed by a proper study of Islam which will lead to a new conviction. We wish you well always, and pray that Allaah will guide us all to the path of truth and guidance. Thank you once again. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 5656: How should a Muslim man make Da’wah to nonMuslim women? Question: The university that I go to doesn’t have many Muslims and the ones that are there are not that knowledgeable. Many non- Muslim classmates come up to me and ask me questions about Islam and this usually takes place in private. Is this right for the sake of them converting? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 254

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You have to call whoever you can to Islam and to enter the religion of Allaah. You have to show them the strengths and distinctive features of this great religion and explain to them how suited it is to mankind. You have to tell them that it offers brilliant solutions to human problems and tell them, that they have to follow this religion and no other. All of this should be done on the basis of sound knowledge, evidence and proofs of which you have a firm and proper knowledge, and it should be done with wisdom and beautiful preaching, responding to the kaafirs with that which is better. The way you make da’wah and your manners should be in accordance with the rulings of Islamic sharee’ah, so it is not permissible – for example – for you to be alone with a kaafir woman, not even for the sake of Da’wah. You must beware of forming relationships with women, and you should be aware of the ways in which the Shaytaan introduces evil, whereby you efforts to make da’wah and draw closer to Allaah by offering advice to kaafir women may end up with you being tested and tempted by them. Da’wah to non-Muslim women should either be undertaken by Muslim women, or else by a Muslim man giving them tapes and booklets, or by giving public speeches and lectures without deliberately looking at the women. We ask Allaah to help you in your Da’wah and to make your responses correct. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 6018: He is convinced of Islam but is concerned about his parents who are staunch Christians Question: I am a Christian who is highly interested in Islam, in fact

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I think it is the TRUE religion of God . My problem is that my parents are staunch Catholics and get furious on seeing the Koran inside our house. I do not wish to displease anyone and at the same time I want to continue with what is best . Please advise me accordingly. Is there a way out of this dilemma? Would appreciate a quick reply. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We thank you very much for sending this question to us, and we say to you that your deep interest in Islam is what will make you embrace this religion soon, in sha Allaah (if Allaah wills). Your current attitude is an important step towards entering this religion, which Allaah wants and besides which He accepts no other religion. Your conviction that this is the true religion of Allaah means that you must now take the ultimate step and pronounce the Shahaadatayn (the twin declarations of faith). When this reply reaches you, go and take a bath (ghusl) and say: “Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasool-Allaah (I bear witness that there is no god but Allaah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah).” Then start to practice the rituals of this great religion, above all the five daily prayers at the appointed times, as Allaah enjoined them. Know that one of the rules of Islam is that you should love Allaah and His Messenger, and that love for Allaah should take priority over love for anyone else. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say: If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your kindred, the wealth that you have gained, the commerce in which you fear a decline, and the dwellings in which you delight are dearer to you than Allaah and His Messenger, and striving hard and fighting in His 256

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Cause, then wait until Allaah brings about His Decision (torment). And Allaah guides not the people who are AlFasiqoon (the rebellious, disobedient to Allaah)” [al-Tawbah 9:24] The Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There are three things, whoever attains them will find the sweetness of faith: when Allaah and His Messenger are more beloved to him than everything else; when he loves another person he loves him only for the sake of Allaah; and when he hates to return to Kufr as he would hate to be thrown into the fire.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari in his Saheeh, no. 15). This means that love for Allaah must come before love for one’s parents and any other created being. If there is a conflict between pleasing Allaah and pleasing your parents, then pleasing Allaah must take precedence. In your situation, as you have described it, we advise you to do the following with regard to your parents: Address them in the best of terms and treat them in the best manner If they insist that you follow kufr, then conceal your Islam if you fear that you are not able to confront them openly, and pray where they cannot see you Do not think at all that there is any burden or sin on you if they get angry with you for becoming a Muslim. Remember that when a person pleases Allaah even though it makes people angry, Allaah will be pleased with him and will make the people pleased with him. Keep on praying for them to be guided and call them to Islam with wisdom and beautiful preaching. Maybe Allaah will guide them through you. We ask Allaah to help you in this world and the next. 257

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Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 5955: A Jewish boy asking about Islam Question: Hi. I live in a Jew house, but for a long time I’m learning about the islam and the quran. I think the Islam the the right way, and want to learn more about it and maybe to become a muslim. What to do? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. You may be a young man for whom Allaah wills good. We admire you because, although you live in a Jewish family, you have been reading about Islam and the Qur’aan for some time, and you think that Islam is the true religion. All of this is a great achievement and an important step, for which you deserve to be encouraged. Your search for the truth at your age shows that your reasoning is strong and that your thinking is correct. So we congratulate you for the way in which you are thinking, and advise you to read more and to look at good Islamic sites on the Internet. On this site you will find a lot of information and answers to questions from people whose circumstances are similar to yours. Now let us look at the story of a Jewish youth who lived at the time of the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad 258

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(peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): From Anas (may Allâh be pleased with him): a young man from among the Jews used to serve the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). The boy became sick, and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came to visit him when he was on his death-bed. He called him to Islam, and the boy looked at his father, who was standing by his head. His father said, “Listen to Abu’l-Qaasim.” [Abu’l-Qaasim (Father of al-Qaasim) was the kunya or “nickname” of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) – it is an Arab custom to address people as “Father of” and “Mother of” their oldest son – Translator]. So the boy became Muslim, then he died. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came away from him saying, “Praise be to Allaah Who has saved him from the Hell-Fire.” (Reported by Imaam Ahmad, 12896; also narrated in Saheeh al-Bukhaari, 1268). So go ahead and embrace Islam as your predecessor did, so that you will be saved from Hell and will earn the victory of Paradise as great as the heavens and the earth. We also want to present you with the following story which contains an important lesson and a moving account of a young man who looked for the truth, and was helped by Allaah to find it: Haddaab ibn Khaalid told us, Hammaad ibn Salamah told us, Thaabit told us from ‘Abd al-Rahmaan ibn Abi Layla from Suhayb that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There was a king among the people who came before you who had a magician. When the magician grew old, he said to the king, ‘I have grown old, so send me a boy to whom I can teach magic.’ So the king sent him a boy, and he taught him magic. On his way, the boy passed by a monk, so he sat with him and listened to him, and he liked what he said. When he came to the magician, he passed by the 259

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monk and sat with him, then when he came to the magician, he hit him because he was late. The boy complained about that to the monk, who said, ‘If you are afraid of the magician, tell him, ‘I was late because of my family’ and if you are afraid of your family, tell them, ‘I was late because of the magician.’ Whilst this was going on, he came across a huge beast that was blocking the people’s way. He said, ‘Today I will know whether the monk is better or the magician.’ He picked up a stone and said, ‘O Allâh, if the monk’s way is dearer to you than the magician’s way, then kill this beast so that the people may go on their way.’ Then he threw the stone and killed the beast, and the people went on their way. He came to the monk and told him what had happened. The monk said to him, ‘O my son, today you are better than I, you have reached such a level and now you will be tested. If you are put to the test, do not tell anyone about me.’ The young man began to heal the blind and the lepers, and to cure people from all kinds of sickness. One of the king’s courtiers who had become blind heard about him, so he brought him many gifts and said, ‘Whatever I have piled up here is for you, if you heal me.’ The boy said, ‘I do not heal anyone, it is Allaah who heals. If you believe in Allaah and call on Allaah, He will heal you.’ So he believed in Allaah and and Allaah healed him. Then he came to the king and sat with him as he had always done. The king said to him, ‘Who gave you back your sight?’ He said, ‘My Lord.’ The king said, ‘Do you have any lord other than me?’ He said, ‘My Lord and your Lord is Allaah.’ So the king took him and kept touring him until he told him about the boy. So the boy was brought to the king, who said, ‘O my son, I have heard about your magic, that you heal the blind and the leper, and you do such and such.’ The boy said, ‘I do not heal anyone, it is Allaah Who heals.’ The took him and tortured him until he told him about the monk. The monk was brought and was told, ‘Give up your religion,’ and he refused. So a saw was 260

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brought and placed on the top of his head, and he was cut in two. Then the king’s courtier was brought and was told, ‘Give up your religion,’ and he refused. So a saw was brought and placed on the top of his head, and he was cut in two. Then the boy was brought and was told, ‘Give up your religion,’ and he refused. The king gave him to a group of his companions and said, ‘Take him to such and such a mountain, and take him up the mountain. When you reach the top of the mountain, if he gives up his religion (then leave him alone), otherwise throw him down. So they took him up the mountain, and the boy said, ‘O Allaah, protect me from them in whatever manner You wish.’ So the mountain was shaken and they fell down, and the boy came walking back to the king. The king asked, ‘What happened to your companions?’ He said, ‘Allaah protected me from them.’ Then the king gave him to another group of his companions, and said, ‘Take him and put him on a ship, then take him to the middle of the sea. If he gives up his religion (then leave him alone), otherwise throw him overboard. So they took him and he said, ‘O Allaah, protect me from them in whatever manner You wish.’ The boat was turned upside down and they drowned, and the boy came walking back to the king. The king asked, ‘What happened to your companions?’ He said, ‘Allaah protected me from them.’ The boy said to the king: ‘You will not be able to kill me unless you do what I tell you.’ The king said, ‘What is that then?’ He said, ‘Gather the people together in one place and crucify me on a tree-trunk, then take an arrow from my quiver and put it in your bow. Then say, “In the name of Allaah, the Lord of the boy” and shoot me. If you do that, you will kill me.’ So the king gathered the people in one place, crucified the boy on a tree-trunk, took an arrow from his quiver and placed it in his bow. Then he said, ‘In the name of Allaah, the Lord of the boy’ and shot him. The arrow hit his temple (the side of his head), and he put his hand on the side of his head where he had been hit, and died. 261

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The people said, ‘We believe in the Lord of the boy, we believe in the Lord of the boy, we believe in the Lord of the boy.’ Someone came to the king and said, ‘Do you see what you were afraid of? By Allâh, what you were afraid of has happened to you now.’ So he ordered that ditches should be dug at the intersections of the streets, and they were dug and fires were lit in them. Then he said, ‘Whoever does not give up his religion, throw him into them’ or it was said, ‘Throw yourselves in’. They did this until they came to a woman who had a baby with her. She felt scared to throw herself in, but the infant said to her, ‘O mother, have patience, for you are on the right path.’” (Reported by Muslim in his Saheeh, 5327). After telling this moving story about a boy coming to know the truth and believe in it and adhere to it, we would like to say to you if you think that your family will give you a hard time if you become Muslim, then you can keep your Islam secret and do your prayers in secret, until Allaah finds a way for you, for He will find the best way for you. We welcome you as a reader and questioner, and as a future brother in Islam, in sha Allaah. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 2195: A new Muslim is not to make up missed Islamic duties before accepting Islam Question: A man accepts Islam and he is 40 years old. Does he need to make up what he has missed from his prayers? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 262

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One who accepts Islam is not to make what he or she has missed from prayers, fasting, alms (zakaat) during his or her days of disbelief (kufr), as indicated by the verse in which Allaah says (what can be interpreted as): Say to those who have disbelieved that if they cease, what has previously occurred will be forgiven for them… (AlAnfaal:38) And what was related that the Prophet (may the peace and blessings and mercy of Allaah be upon him) said, “Islam annuls what came before it.” (narrated by Muslim in his Sahih, no. 121). Also, the Prophet (may the peace and blessings and mercy of Allaah be upon him) did not command anyone among those who accepted Islam to make up for anything that he previously missed from the rites and rituals of Islam during his days of disbelief, and the scholars of Islam are in consensus about this. (Fatawa Al-Lajnah Al-Daa’imah, Rulings of the Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Rulings, 6/400) (www.islam-qa.com) 4991: She wants to become Muslim but she cannot accept some of the rulings such as hijaab and doing the prayers on time. Question: I was born in a French catholic family. My parents are strong and sincere believers, and I respect that a lot. Now I’m very interested in Islam, but there are a couple of reasons that “prevent” me from converting. For instance, as a woman, I cannot accept polygamy, the fact of stoning people who had an affair, of always depend on a “mahram”... 263

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Furthermore, it’s not “easy” to be and live as a Muslim in a western country : in my job, I wouldn’t be able to wear a veil, not to shake men’s hands anymore, pray 5 times a day... And my parents (especially my mother who is sick) would be very sad seeing me leaving Christianity. So my question is to know how I can convert in such conditions. Is there a kind of “minimum” required ? I mean, considering that there are still things which I don’t accept, wouldn’t it be better for me to wait ? Thanks for your help. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We put the following question to Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al-‘Uthaymeen: A non-Muslim woman is saying, “I want to become Muslim but on the condition that I do not have to do the five prayers until the end of the day, because I cannot do them at work. And also I cannot accept the idea of polygamy.” He answered as follows: Praise be to Allaah. I think that she should adhere to the rulings of Islam if she wants to become Muslim and be saved from the Fire. But as for her choosing what she wants and saying I cannot accept the idea of polygamy – as if she is saying that she cannot accept it as a ruling from Allaah – or saying I cannot pray until I finish my work, this is not acceptable. Question: In the book “Muntaqa al-Akhbaar”, the author says, 264

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“Chapter on the soundness of a person’s Islam when he lays down invalid conditions”, and he mentions the hadeeth of Waheeb, who said: “I asked Jaabir about the tribe of Thaqeef, when they gave their Bay’ah (oath of allegiance) to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allâh be upon him), with the condition that they would not have to pay Sadaqah (charity) or engage in Jihaad. After that he heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allâh be upon him) say, ‘They will give sadaqah and they will engage in jihaad.’” Can we understand from this that if a non-Muslim comes and says ‘I want to become Muslim on the condition that I can do all the prayers together at the end of the day’ this is OK, or is this an entirely different case? Shaykh: This is an entirely different case, because when that was said to the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), he said, “If they become Muslim, they will pray.” This has to do with matters of the Unseen, which we cannot know. (in other words, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) accepted that from them because he knew, from what Allaah taught him of the Unseen, that these people would become good Muslims and would give charity and engage in jihaad, whereas we cannot know the Unseen and how this non-Muslim will be in the future). If we accepted the conditions laid down by the kuffaar, Islam would disintegrate. One may stipulate the condition that we let him engage in zinaa (unlawful sexual activity), another may demand that we let him drink wine, and so on and so forth…. The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allâh be upon him) told ‘Ali, when he sent him to the people of Khaybar: “Tell them what their duties are towards Allaah in Islam.” The condition of Islam is that it must be accepted in totality, as it is. The Prophet 265

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(peace and blessings of Allâh be upon him) told Mu’aadh, “Teach them that Allaah has enjoined five prayers upon them, and if they accept that, then tell them about Zakaah.” So the obligations of Islam have to be accepted. Question: Can we not say that this person’s entering Islam serves a great interest, and that their stipulating that they should be excused a few acts of worship is less harmful? Shaykh: Not at all! Whose interests are being served here? The interests of the person himself? But this is damaging to Islam, because then lazy Muslims will say, “We will only pray when we have finished work, like this person does.” So the harm this would do to Islam is serious. If he really wants to save himself, let him accept Islam in totality. “And whomsoever Allaah leads astray, no-one can guide.” So what we say to you is this: become Muslim and accept Islam in totality. Submit to Allaah in all that He has prescribed, and Allaah will help you and give you the strength to follow His laws, if you are sincere in your intention towards Him. Then if you are faced with something that you cannot do for a genuine reason, or are forced to do something, then if you are sincere, Allaah will not punish you for that. May Allaah help us and you to accept the truth and adhere to it. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 6542: She wants to become Muslim but she envisages a problem with regard to Hajj and official papers Question: I would like to become a muslim but how do I embrace 266

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islam without being a part of a movement? I do realize all that is truly needed is to pronounce the shahada; but what about the Hajj? How do I particpate in that if I do not have a signed document saying that I am a muslim? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Islam is the relationship between a person and his or her Lord, submission to His commands, humbling oneself before Him, loving and fearing Him, placing one’s hopes in Him, and worshipping Him in the manner He has prescribed. Islam also has certain pillars and duties. The key to all of this is to bear witness that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah. With regard to Hajj, it is not a condition for entering Islam, rather it is one of the pillars and duties that come into effect after a person has entered Islam, and it is a duty only for those who are able to do it, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allâh, those who can afford the expenses (for one’s conveyance, provision and residence)” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:97] (See Question # 5261 for details on what constitutes being able to go for Hajj). Obtaining an official certificate from an Islamic centre as proof of your Islam so that you can use it to get permission to go for Hajj and enter the Holy Places is a means which you must use in order to go for Hajj in the future, but it is not a condition that is necessary for you to become Muslim or start to do the acts of worship such as Salaah (prayer) etc. When a person becomes Muslim he becomes a 267

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member of the Muslim Ummah and is connected to all the Muslims who believe in One God by the bonds of Islamic brotherhood which includes friendship and mutual help and support, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islamic religion)” [al-Hujuraat 49:10] “The believers, men and women, are Auliya’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another; they enjoin (on the people) Al-Ma‘roof (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do), and forbid (people) from Al-Munkar (i.e. polytheism and disbelief of all kinds, and all that Islam has forbidden); they perform As-Salaah (Iqaamat-as-Salaah), and give the Zakaah, and obey Allaah and His Messenger. Allaah will have His Mercy on them. Surely, Allaah is All-Mighty, All-Wise” [alTawbah 9:71] So you must hasten to enter Islam. We congratulate you on the keenness that you have shown and we ask Allaah to help us and you to be sincere towards Him, to be strong and to attain success. And Allaah is the Guide to the Straight Path. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 5019: Response to a request from a kaafir woman for a story of a great Muslim woman Question: Hi. I am a 15 year old . I am doing a religion assignment 268

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on the role of women in Islam and I find the information in your website very helpful. I was just wondering, if you don’t mind doing it, if you could send me some more information, maybe one particular woman’s stories? I don’t really know much about Islamic women, and I, like other non - Islamic women/girls, have the perception that an Islamic woman’s life is a bit restricted. I hope that you can put me right on that matter. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We thank you for your interest and your question. We will tell you the story of a great Muslim woman; we hope that you will find what you are looking for, and that this will be a light to guide you to the path of Truth. Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) reported: Maalik ibn Anas said to his wife Um Sulaym – who was the mother of Anas – “This man – meaning the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) – is forbidding alcohol.” So he left Madeenah and went to Shaam (Syria), where he died. (i.e., he fled from Madeenah when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came there, because he did not like the ban on alcohol, and he died as a kaafir or non-believer in Syria). Then Abu Talhah came and proposed marriage to Um Sulaym, and spoke to her about it. She said, “O Abu Talhah, a man like you would not be turned down, but you are a non-believer, and I am a Muslim woman. It is not right for me to marry you.” He said, “This is the chance of a lifetime!” She said, “What chance?” He said, “The yellow and white (i.e., he was tempting her with a mahr or dowry of gold and silver).” She said, “I do not want any yellow or white. I want you to become Muslim. 269

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If you become Muslim, that will be my mahr, and I will not ask you for anything else.” He asked, “Who could help me with that (i.e., to become Muslim)?” She said, “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) will help you.” So Abu Talhah went to look for the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), who was sitting with his Companions. When he [the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)] saw him, he said, “Abu Talhah is coming to you with the light of Islam shining on his forehead.” (This was one of the miracles of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): he knew that Abu Talhah would become a Muslim even before he spoke). Abu Talhah told the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) about what Um Sulaym had said, and he married her on that basis. Thaabit (i.e., Thaabit al-Banaani, one of the people who narrated the story from Anas) said: “We have never heard of any mahr greater than this, she accepted his Islam as her dowry.” So he married her, and she was a woman with nice eyes, rather small. She was with him until she bore him a son, who Abu Talhah loved very much. The child became very ill, and Abu Talhah was very upset and distressed by the child’s sickness. Abu Talhah used to get up to pray the morning prayer, he would go to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and pray with him, and would stay with him for almost half the day. Then [Abu Talhah] would come to take a nap and eat, and when he had prayed Zuhr [mid-day prayer] he would get ready and leave, and would not come back until the time of the ‘Isha’ [night-time] prayer. One evening, Abu Talhah went out to see the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) (according to another report: to go to the mosque), and the child died (during his absence). Um Sulaym said, “No one is to tell Abu Talhah about his child’s death until I have told him.” She covered the child 270

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up as if he were sleeping, and left him in a corner of the house. Abu Talhah came back from visiting the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and brought some people from the mosque with him. He asked, “How is my son?” She said, “O Abu Talhah, from the time he fell sick, he has never been as calm as he is now, and I hope that he is resting.” (She spoke vaguely so as not to upset him; this was not a lie. She was referring to the calmness of death and the child finding relief from the pain of his sickness, but her husband took it to mean that the child’s condition had improved). She brought the meal and they all ate dinner, then the people left. Then he went to bed and lay down, and she got up and put on perfume and adorned herself, making herself more beautiful than she ever had before. (This was a sign of her patience and great faith in the will and decree of Allaah. She was seeking reward from Allaah and concealing her feelings, hoping that she would become pregnant that night to make up for the loss of her child). Then she came and lay down in the bed with him, and when he smelt the perfume, he did as men usually do with their wives (this is the narrator’s polite and circumspect manner of referring to what happened between them). At the end of the night, she said, “O Abu Talhah, do you think that if some people lent something to some others, then they asked for it back, do they have the right not to give it back?” He said, “No.” She said, “Allaah, may He be glorified, lent your son to you, and now He has taken him back, so seek reward with Him and have patience.” He became angry and said, “You left me until I did what I did (i.e., had intercourse), then you tell me that my son has died!” Then he said, “Innaa Lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raaji’oon (Truly, to Allaah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return – the words uttered by Muslims when faced with news of death or calamity) and he praised Allaah. In the morning, he did ghusl (full ablution) then he went to the Messenger of 271

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Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and prayed with him, and told him what had happened. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “May Allaah bless you for last night.” She conceived a child (thus the Prophet’s prayer for them was answered). Um Sulaym used to travel with the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), leaving Madeenah when he left, and returning when he returned. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “When she gives birth, bring the child to me.” He was on a journey, and Um Sulaym was with him. When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came back from travelling, he would never enter Madeenah at night (so as not to disturb the people, and so that wives would have time to get ready to greet their husbands). They reached the outskirts of Madeenah, and her labour pains started. Abu Talhah stayed with her, and the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) went on. Abu Talhah said, “O Allaah, you know that I like to set out with your Messenger when he sets out, and come back with him when he comes back. I have been detained as You see.” Um Sulaym said, “O Abu Talhah, I do not feel the pains as much (this was one of her “miracles”; her labour pains ceased because she had asked Allaah to enable her to catch up with the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)). So they set off, and after they had reached Madeenah, her labour pains started again, and she gave birth to a boy. She told her son Anas, “O Anas, I will not give him anything to eat until you take him in the morning to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him),” and she sent some dates with him. (Because she wanted the first thing to enter the child’s mouth to be food from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him); this was a sign of her great faith, 272

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because the woman’s natural instinct is to hasten to feed the baby as soon as he is born). The child cried all night long, and I [Anas, the narrator of this story] stayed up all night taking care of him. In the morning, I took him to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), who was wearing his burdah (a kind of cloak) and marking the camels and sheep that had been given to him (the animals had been given in charity and he was marking them so that they would not get lost or mixed with other flocks or herds). When he saw him, he said to Anas, “Has the daughter of Milhaan [i.e., Um Sulaym] given birth?” He said, “Yes.” He said, “I will be with you in a minute.” He put down the tool in his hand (with which he had been marking the animals) and took the child, then he said, “Do you have something for him?” They said, “Yes, dates.” The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) took some of the dates and chewed them, mixing them with his saliva (and the saliva of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was blessed by Allaah). Then he opened the child’s mouth and gave him some of the dates, wiping them inside his mouth (this is called Tahneek and is one of the customs among Muslims when a baby is born). The infant began to smack his lips, sucking some of the sweetness of the dates and the saliva of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Thus the first thing that entered that child’s stomach was mixed with the saliva of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). He said, “See how much the Ansaar (the Muslims who were living in Madeenah when the Prophet migrated there) love dates!” I [Anas] said, “O Messenger of Allaah, name him.” He wiped his face and named him ‘Abd-Allaah. There was no young man among the Ansaar who was better than him, and when he grew up he had a lot of sons, and was martyred in Persia (he died as a martyr when the Muslims conquered Persia; all of this happened as a result of the Prophet’s blessed du’aa’). 273

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(The story was reported by Imaam al-Bukhaari, Muslim, Ahmad and al-Tayaalisi; this version was reported by alTayaalisi and others. Al-‘Allaamah al-Albaani collected all its isnaads in his book Ahkaam al-Janaa’iz, p. 20). This is one story of one Muslim woman among the Companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). There are many other stories which show the effect Islam had on the hearts of Muslim women and how the religion of Allaah bore fruits of righteous deeds and good lives. In this there is enough to convince the seeker of truth of the right religion which he must follow. Read it again and think about it; maybe you will take the greatest step of your life. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 4775: A Christian woman who wants to become Muslim, but her husband is a kaafir and an alcoholic, and she has a relationship with a Muslim man Question: I have been studing Islam for a few months now, I have a Quran and am busy reading it and I must admit I am comparing it with the bible. I am almost ready to embrace Islam however I have two major problems. First I am married to a Christian, he drinks a lot and is out of work at this stage, when he drinks I become someone I do not like very much. I do not drink at all and have not for several years. My father was an alcoholic and unfortunately I also married one. I loved him very much when we got married however he has slowly destroyed this love with his manners and 274

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attitude. I do like him, when he is sober he is the kindest and most giving person I know and he would do almost anything for his friends and I think for his family. We have 2 children but they are both very fed up with his drinking. If I had to leave him, he will most definitely land up in the gutter. He will not be able to cope on his own. He has a very low self-esteem at this stage. I am very helpless at this stage and do not know what to do. My second major problem is I am friends with a much younger Muslim man. We have known each other for a couple of years now and I have also come to love him. The major problem here is he is married and has two children, he is much younger than what I am and he is friends with my husband and I am friends with his wife. I have never indicated to him how I feel or what I feel, but I do dream a lot of what may be. I know this is probably wrong. I am not the type of person who will leave my husband for another man but we have not had a proper marriage relationship for almost six years now and I am not dead yet. I would like to embrace Islam but I am afraid that my friend’s attitude may change towards me when I become a Muslimah, we now visit and talk about almost anything ranging from business to religion and I would not like to loose his friendship by committing myself. My friend is a is very staunch in his religion and he is a practising Muslim. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. The conviction that you have reached must be very firm and strong, because it is based on research and study, and comes after you have compared the Bible and the Qur’an. We do not think that that you need to be convinced any 275

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further, but the problems that you talk about have to do with the next step, which is really embracing the religion of Islam and starting to practise it by living an Islamic life. We do not see any real obstacles that would prevent you from taking this step. Let us look at each of these problems in turn. The first problem is: how will your alcoholic husband react to your becoming Muslim? The Islamic ruling is that as soon as you embrace Islam, you start your ‘iddah, which is the waiting period (following dissolution of a marriage). Maalik (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: “According to our opinion, if a woman becomes Muslim when her husband is a kaafir, then he becomes Muslim, then he has more right (to go back) to her as long as she is still in her ‘iddah period, but if her ‘iddah has expired, he has no right to go back to her.” Al-Shaafa’i said: “If one of them (the couple) becomes Muslim before the marriage is consummated, then their separation takes effect instantly when one of them becomes Muslim. If this happens after the marriage has been consummated, then it becomes the matter of waiting until three (menstrual periods) have passed.” This is if the woman has regular periods; otherwise the waiting period is three months. If the other partner becomes Muslim before this time has passed, then their marriage contract remains valid. (Tabyeen al-Haqaa’iq Sharh Kanz al-Daqaa’iq, part 2, Baab Nikaah al-Kaafir). This is because a Muslim woman is not allowed to be married to a kaafir at all, because Islam should prevail and not be prevailed over. So become Muslim, and present Islam to him (your husband). If he becomes Muslim too, then praise be to 276

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Allaah. Maybe this will make him give up alcohol. If he does not become Muslim and the ‘iddah time expires, then leave him, especially as his circumstances are not acceptable and and his alcoholism is causing so much trouble for you and your children, and living with him is unbearable. Do not feel any regrets about him; maybe Allaah will compensate you with someone better than him. If he cannot take care of himself, then he only has himself to blame, because he is bringing it upon himself. If you leave him, this make him feel bad and thus bring him back to his senses; maybe then he will become Muslim and get his wife and children back. The second problem is very serious and dangerous, because it has to do with an Islamically unacceptable relationship between a man and a non-mahram woman who talk together intimately about all kinds of topics, without any controls or restraints. This improper conduct has led to other kinds of improper conduct, namely love and attachment and fear of separation from that person, as well as the weighing up of this relationship against the religion of Islam – even though continuing this intimate relationship is so harmful and entering Islam is obligatory and will bring happiness in this world and salvation from the Fire in the Hereafter. Moreover, we are astonished and wonder how he can be so committed to his religion – as you say – yet he has formed such a relationship with you that you describe him as your friend. You must hasten to enter Islam and advise this person in an appropriate fashion (such as sending him an e-mail, for example). Rest assured that when you become Muslim, Allaah will make for you a way to get out (from difficulty), and He will provide for you from (sources) you could never imagine. So strive to please your Lord, and He will be pleased with you and will make other people pleased with you. May Allaah help us all to do that which He loves and which pleases Him. 277

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Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 5024: His brother has become Muslim but he is hesitant and wants advice Question: I want to become a Muslim, but am very hesitant. My brother converted a few months ago, which caused a lot of problems between him and my parents(both of them being Christian). I have a close relationship with my girlfriend, which doesn’t help me out much either. I don’t know what to do. I know it’ll be a choice of Allah or my parents/girlfriend. I know what the right decision should be, I just don’t know how, or when to make it. I just need some advice. Thanks… Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Congratulations to your brother, congratulations to your brother, congratulations to your brother! Please give him our best wishes and greetings of peace (salaam) and tell him that even though we are thousands of miles away, we are praying he will stand firm in his faith and gain a proper understanding of his religion. Tell him that he has brothers in faith who share his joy at having entered Islam, even though he does not know their names or where they live. This is the relationship of believers with one another, like a structure parts of which support other parts. 278

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With regard to yourself, you say that you know what the right decision is, and that is great. You have come a long way, and all that remains is for you to make the decision which you know you have to make. What is life without religion? What is the point of living and working and striving if it is not for the purpose of pleasing Allaah? Can there be any joy in life or salvation after death or any hope of attaining the bliss of Paradise without entering Islam? If we do not worship Allaah, what are we going to worship? Our whims and desires? Would a wise person accept to be the slave of his sexual desire that will soon come to an end or of some wealth that he will soon leave behind in this transient world? Man has a spirit that will never be at peace unless he worships Allaah. He has a conscience that cannot thrive except in the light of Allaah. He has a soul that can never be at ease unless it is in contact with Allaah, remembering Him, speaking to Him, praying and fasting for His sake, putting its trust in Him and repenting to Him. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Is he who was dead (without Faith by ignorance and disbelief) and We gave him life (by knowledge and Faith) and set for him a light (of Belief) whereby he can walk amongst, like him who is in the darkness (of disbelief, polytheism and hypocrisy) from which he can never come out?…” [al-An’aam 6:122] “And whomsoever Allaah wills to guide, He opens his breast to Islam, and whomsoever He wills to send astray, He makes his breast closed and constricted, as if he is climbing up to the sky…” [al-An’aam 6:125] There is no need for hesitation in this matter, because it is the matter of freedom from the Fire of Hell and salvation 279

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from the wrath of al-Jabbaar (the Compeller, i.e., Allaah), and attaining the victory of happiness in this world and the next. Allaah Who created you and created the heavens and earth is greater, and obeying Him is more important, than the closest of relatives and the dearest of friends. Become Muslim and you will be safe. Allaah will help you with regard to your parents and will give you the strength to stand firm against their pressure. Who knows, maybe you and your brother will be the cause of saving your entire family. Allaah told the Prophet Moosa (Moses) about his brother Haaroon (Aaron), peace be upon them both (interpretation of the meaning): “We will strengthen your arm through your brother…” [al-Qasas 28:35] So together they went to call Pharaoh and his people to worship Allaah. With regard to your girlfriend, do not think that this forbidden relationship will help you adhere to the truth. You have to call her to Islam and to repent to Allaah. If she repents, then marry her in accordance with the Islamic way that is acceptable to Allaah. If she does not, then do not feel any regrets about her. The Prophet of Islam said: “Whoever gives up something for the sake of Allaah, Allaah will compensate him with something better.” We ask Allaah to hasten the blessings of Islam for you, to bless you with happiness in this world and success in the Hereafter, and to protect you from all evil. We look forward to hearing happy news. Peace be with you. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 280

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4816: She wants to become Muslim but thinks she will have problems with her friends, family and job Question: I am a woman studying Islam and have a few questions that need answering: 1. I have a few Muslim male friends, we are very close and they treat me as an equal, if I had to convert to Islam would their attitutes towards me have to change, e.g. when I visit their houses, their wifes are very much in the background while I am allowed to sit with the men and partake in the conversation the wifes are usually busy in the kitchens or else busy with the kids or generally sit and watch TV while we talk; I would not like to loose these special moments with my friends; 2. What will I be able to do about Friday prayers? I work in a place where my situation is very difficult. My collegeus are very prejudice against Muslims and I am afraid that should I convert they will freak. I have read somewhere that you can appoint someone to do the prayers for you, is that true? 3. My family are all very staunch Christians and I was brought up as a christian, I am also married to a christian but he has no objections to my studying and practicing Islam, if I had to convert how can I get my family to leave me alone? 4. Obviously this is a big step for me and I do still have doubts as to whether I am doing the right thing, how can one be 100% sure that you are doing the right thing. In my heart I feel OK about this although my mind has a lot of worries as you can notice from my questions. I am sure of the Oneness of God and have always been. I have read the Choice by Ahmed Deedat and I am sure about 281

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the Prophet (PBUH) and I do and have always believed in life after death but why do I still feel so confused? Am I ready to take the big step? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Is what you want to do the right step? Are you ready to take this great step? From what you say, these are the two important questions to which you have been trying to find the answer. We thank you for consulting us, and we believe that what you are going to do is the right step for sure, because this is the religion of Allaah, and He does not accept any other religion from His slaves, as He says (interpretation of the meaning): “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85] Maybe you have compared (religions, etc.) and read widely and have reached the conviction that this is the true religion which you must follow, but this is not enough and it will not save a person just to believe in the Oneness of Allaah and the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and the resurrection after death. He must also utter the Shahadataayn and practise Islam. It seems to us that your hesitation is not due to lack of conviction of the truth but because of certain fears that have to do with social factors such as friends, family, husband and job. One aspect of the answer may be found under Question # 4775, so please refer to that. As far as your Muslim acquaintances are concerned, you will be sitting with their 282

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wives, not with the men, as is dictated by Islamic teaching. If you find this difficult at first, you will find it easy later on. If these women are too busy, then look for other sincere Muslim women who you can make friends with and encourage one another to adhere to the truth. If you are sincere towards Allaah, He will help you to overcome your difficulties with your husband and family. With regard to Friday Prayers, this is not obligatory for women because the Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “It is a duty for every Muslim to pray Jumu’ah in congregation apart from four: slaves, women, young boys and the sick.” (Reported by Abu Dawood, 901). Women have to pray four rak’ahs of Zuhr prayer on Friday wherever they are. What you have heard about a person delegating someone else to pray on his behalf is not correct at all. Prayer is fard ‘ayn, i.e., an individual duty for each Muslim, and it is not acceptable for one person to appoint someone else as a proxy or for one person to pray on behalf of another. In any case, you have no need for this in the case of Jumu’ah prayers, as you now know. Briefly, all you need in your case is to put your trust in Allaah and strive to please Him. Go ahead and embrace His religion even if it makes other people angry. So long as you accept Him as your Lord and God, and follow His religion, He will never let you down or forsake you. We believe that you are ready to take this great step, in sha Allaah, so remember our advice in brief is “Go for it” and put your trust in Allaah. We ask Allaah to give you strength. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam qa.com) 283

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4246: becoming a Muslim Question: I would like to become a musilim. Is this possible? And if so, how can this happen. I do not know much.I know some things. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Any human being can embrace Islam. You do not need anyone’s permission. You simply say and believe that there is No God except Allah and that Mohammad is his Messenger. Once you say this sentence, you automatically become Muslim. From there, you start carrying on with the duties of Islam. You must do what Allah and His messenger tell you to, and stay away from what they tell you to. Islam does not tell you to do anything unless it is good for you. It also does not tell you to stay away from anything unless it is bad for you. You will notice the change in the way you look at things, the minute you become a Muslim. You will feel more relieved and secure only to think that you are fulfilling the orders of Allah. Doing this, you will clearly see the benefits of it for yourself and for mankind. You can embrace Islam in any Islamic center. This is only a formality. Once you say and believe in the Oneness of Allah and in the message of his Prophet Mohammad, then you are a Muslim. To become a Muslim, simply say the following words: Ash hadu alla ilaha illa Allah, wa ash hadu anna Mohammadan abduhu wa rasuluhu. This means I testify and witness that there is no god worthy 284

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of being worshipped other than Allah and that Mohammad is his Messenger. You must say it and believe in it. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 4028: Response to a stubborn disbeliever Question: Did you know your religion was founded and developed by Catholics? I know Muhammad was your Christ, but let me tell you friend the God you know is not the God of Gods but the Devil of Devils. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We do not wish to respond to slander in kind, but we will answer you, you disbeliever, with quotes from the Word of God (the Qur’aan), if you even believe in the existence of God. O disbeliever, we debate with you in the words addressed by Allaah (the Arabic name of the One True God) to the People of the Book (Jews and Christians) and the disbelievers. He says (interpretation of the meaning): “O People of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Do not exceed the limits in your religion, nor say of Allaah aught but the truth. The Messiah ‘Eesa (Jesus) son of Maryam (Mary) was (no more than) a Messenger of Allaah and His Word (‘Be!’ – and he was), which He bestowed on 285

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Maryam, and a spirit created by Him; so believe in Allaah and His Messengers. Say not: ‘Three (trinity)!’ Cease! (it is) better for you. For Allaah is (the only) One (God). Glory be to Him (Far Exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. And Allaah is All-Sufficient as a Disposer of Affairs.” [al-Nisa’ 4:171] “Say: O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Do you criticize us for no other reason than that we believe in Allaah, and in (the revelation) which has been sent down before (us), and that most of you are faasiqoon (rebellious and disobedient [to Allaah])?” [al-Maa’idah 5:59] “How can you disbelieve in Allaah? Seeing that you were dead and He gave you life. Then He will give you death, then again will bring you to life (on the Day of Resurrection) and then unto Him you will return.” [al-Baqarah 2:28] “… whosoever disbelieves in Allaah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, and the Last Day, then indeed he has strayed far away… Verily, those who disbelieve in Allaah and His messengers and wish to make a distinction between Allaah and His Messengers (by believing in Allaah and disbelieving in His Messengers) saying, ‘We believe in some but not in others,’ and wish to adopt a way in between, They are in truth disbelievers. And We have prepared for the disbelievers a humiliating torment.” [al-Nisa’ 4:136, 150-151] 286

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O disbeliever, do you think that you can do any harm to Allaah by your disbelief? Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “… But if you disbelieve, then unto Allaah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth, and Allaah is Ever Rich (Free of all wants), Worthy of all praise.” [al-Nisa’ 4:131] You will only increase in hatefulness and loss in the sight of Allaah, you disbeliever, for you are one of the worst of living creatures, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, the worst of moving (living) creatures before Allaah are those who disbelieve, - so they shall not believe.” [al-Anfaal 8:55] O disbeliever, are you not going to die? Or do you doubt that as well? Do you know what your position will be when you die, if you die in a state of disbelief? Listen: “And if you could see when the angels take away the souls of those who disbelief (at death), they smite their faces and their backs, (saying): ‘Taste the punishment of the blazing Fire.’” [al-Anfaal 8:50] O disbeliever, woe to you from what will happen to you on the Day of Resurrection! Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “… so woe to the disbelievers from the meeting of a great Day (i.e., the Day of Resurrection, when they will be thrown in the blazing Fire).” [Maryam 19:37] 287

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We have an appointment with you after death, on the Day of Reckoning: “On that day those who disbelieved and disobeyed the Messenger [Muhammad SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)] will wish that they were buried in the earth, but they will never be able to hide a single fact from Allaah.” [al-Nisa’ 4:42] O disbeliever, do you know what Allaah has prepared for you if you die in a state of disbelief? Read: “And whosoever does not believe in Allaah and His Messenger [Muhammad SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)], then verily, We have prepared for the disbelievers a blazing Fire.” [al-Fath 48:13] “Verily, those who disbelieve, and die while they are disbelievers, it is they on whom is the Curse of Allaah and of the angels and mankind, combined.” [al-Baqarah 2:161] “Verily, those who disbelieved, and died while they were disbelievers, the (whole) earth full of gold will not be accepted from any one of them even if they offered it as a ransom. For them is a painful torment and they will have no helpers.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:91] “Surely, those who reject Faith, neither their properties, nor their offspring will avail them aught against Allaah. They are the dwellers of the Fire, therein they will abide.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:116] 288

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Do you know what you will have to drink in Hell if you die as a disbeliever? Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “… But those who disbelieved will have a drink of boiling fluids and painful torment because they used to disbelieve.” [Yoonus 10:5] Do you know what you will have to wear on that Day? Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “… Then as for those who disbelieve, garments of fire will be cut out for them, boiling water will be poured down over their heads.” [al-Hajj 22:19] Do you know what kind of punishment you will endure? “Surely! Those who disbelieved in Our Signs, We shall burn them in Fire. As often as their skins are roasted through, We shall change them for other skins that they may taste the punishment. Truly, Allaah is Ever Most Powerful, All-Wise.”[al-Nisa’ 4:56] “If only those who disbelieved knew (the time) when they will not be able to ward off the Fire from their faces, nor from their backs; and they will not be helped.”[al-Anbiya’ 21:39] O reviler, maybe on the Day of Judgement you will wish that you had been a Muslim in this world. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Perhaps (often) will those who disbelieve wish that they were Muslims.” [al-Hijr 15:2] 289

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O disbeliever, you are among those who have disbelieved and done wrong. Allaah says concerning you and your like (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily those who disbelieve and do wrong, Allaah will not forgive them, nor will He guide them to any way” [alNisa’ 4:168] “Those who disbelieve and deny our signs are those who will be the dwellers of the Hell-fire.” [al-Maa’idah 5:10] There you will have no life, but neither will you be able to find any respite in death. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “But those who disbelieve, for them will be the Fire of Hell. Neither will it have a complete killing effect on them so that they die, nor shall its torment be lightened for them. Thus do We requite every disbeliever!” [Faatir 35:36] O disbeliever, have the glad tidings of a punishment from which you will not be able to ransom yourself: “Verily, those who disbelieve, if they had all that is in the earth, and as much again therewith to ransom themselves thereby from the torment on the Day of Resurrection, it would never be accepted of them, and theirs would be a painful torment.” [al-Maa’idah 5:36] O disbeliever, if you want to mock Islam and its followers, this is nothing new: “Beautified is the life of this world for those who disbelieve, and they mock at those who believe. But those 290

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who obey Allaah’s Orders and keep away from what He has forbidden, will be above them on the Day of Resurrection. And Allaah gives (of His bounty on the Day of Resurrection) to whom He wills without limit.” [al-Baqarah 2:212] O disbeliever, if you think that the light of Islam will be extinguished, then you are living in a world of illusions. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “They (the disbelievers) want to extinguish Allaah’s Light with their mouths, but Allaah will not allow except that His Light should be perfected even though the disbelievers hate (it).” [al-Tawbah 9:32] O disbeliever, do you know that you are cursed if you do not submit to Allaah, so save yourself from this curse: “Verily, Allaah has cursed the disbelievers, and has prepared for them a flaming Fire (Hell).” [al-Ahzaab 33:64] There is still time for you to repent from sin and transgression, so long as you are still alive. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say to those who have disbelieved, if they cease (from disbelief) their past will be forgiven. But if they return (thereto), then the examples of those (punished) before them have already preceded (as a warning).” [al-Anfaal 8:38] Whoever is guided, then it is for his own benefit, and whoever disbelieves, then Allaah has no need of His creation. The curse of Allaah be upon the disbelievers. 291

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Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 4545: She wants to convert to Islam but there are only men in the Islamic centre Question: I am seriously thinking of converting to Islam but the mosque in my town has only male muslims at it .Should I go and give my declaration or find another way? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Firstly, we want to congratulate you for seriously thinking about embracing Islam and entering into the true religion. May you be one of those for whom Allaah wishes good and whom He decrees will be one of those who enjoy happiness. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And whomsoever Allaah wills to guide, He opens his breast to Islam…” [al-An’aam 6:125] Secondly, it is not obligatory to declare your Islam at an Islamic centre, although this may be useful for some official purposes or if you need written proof of your Islam in the future. On this basis, it will be enough for you to pronounce the Shahaadatayn (the declaration of faith) and start to practise the rituals of Islamic worship, such as prayer and following what is commanded by Allaah and His Messenger. We ask Allaah to pour His blessings on you and to guide you to the straight path. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com)

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Chapter 6 4319: A Jewish woman thinking about embracing Islam Question: Salam Aleikum, I have very difficult question and I this is my only hope that you can help me to find the answer. I am Russian Jewish girl and I know this Muslim guy for over a year. The longer we know each other, the more problems and difficulties we face. Not in the religious or cultural ways. We love each other and there is an issue of whether he can marry me or not. He is very good Muslim and he comes from traditional family. I am very found of his believes and believes of his family. I was born in very agnostic country and couldn’t be properly introduced into any religion. It was forbidden. When I came to US I started my research on different religions and found out, that my believes do not really match all jewish sayings. I did a lot of research on Islam and by looking at him and couple other Muslim boys and girls, and by reading Quaran, I have very strong feeling that I could become a good Muslim. I want to go to school to learn the culture and religion more precise, to learn the language. I contacted the mosque and was ready to go... but I faced the issue: would I be accepted as Muslim sister like other people who came from different religions accept Jewish? Jewish and Muslims are in big contradictions and I know that friendship is almost impossible. I am praying to God (in my home language - Russian), to lead me the right way to achieve my believes. Please, help me to find my answers! Thank you very much. 293

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. “I have very strong feeling that I could become a good Muslim.” The way you express yourself so clearly in your message indicates that you are indeed open to the truth and have been sincerely seeking for it. “I am praying to God (in my home language –Russian), to lead me to the right way…” What you say here, at the end of your message, makes the Muslim reader feel deeply moved by the story of a woman who has turned towards Allaah after realizing that He answers the prayers of those who call on Him and ask for guidance to the right way. Allaah says in the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning): “And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them, by My knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led aright.” [al-Baqarah 2:186]. It is a good sign that your heart appears to be open to Islam. Allaah also tells us in the Qur’aan: “And whomsoever Allaah wills to guide, He opens his breast to Islam, and whomsoever He wills to send astray, He makes his breast closed and constricted, as if he is climbing up to the sky…” [al-An’aam 6:125] Please note that Muslims who understand their religion properly will not feel any kind of reservation or resentment towards any brother or sister who embraces Islam, no matter what their origins. The fact that a new Muslim comes from a Jewish or Christian background should not be a reason for any kind of discrimination or prejudice. We will give you two examples from Islamic history of two Jews – one man and one woman – who entered Islam. 294

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The first one is Abu Yoosuf ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Salaam (may Allaah be pleased with him). Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “When ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Salaam heard that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) had come to Madeenah, he came to him and said, ‘I am going to ask you about three things which no one knows except a Prophet. What is the first Sign of the Hour? What is the first food that the people of Paradise will eat? And how is it that a child may resemble either his father or his maternal uncles?’ The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Jibreel has just now informed me about these.’ ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Salaam said, ‘He is the enemy of the Jews among the angels.’ The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘The first sign of the Hour is a fire that will gather the people together from the East to the West. The first food that the people of Paradise will eat will be the caudate (extra) lobe of fish-liver. As for the child resembling one parent or another, when a man has intercourse with his wife, if the man’s discharge precedes the woman’s discharge, the child will resemble the man, and if the woman’s discharge precedes the man’s, the child will resemble the woman.” [‘Abd-Allaah] said: ‘I bear witness that you are the Messenger of Allaah…’” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 3082). Al-Bukhaari also reported: “ ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Salaam came and said: ‘I bear witness that you are the Messenger of Allaah and that you have brought the truth. The Jews know that I am the best of them and the son of the best of them, and I am the most knowledgeable of them and the son of the most knowledgeable of them, so call them and ask them about me before they know that I have become Muslim, for if they know that I have become Muslim, they will say things about me that are not true.’ The 295

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Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sent for them and they came to him. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to them, ‘O Jews, woe to you! Fear Allaah, for by Allaah besides Whom there is no other god, you know that I am truly the Messenger of Allaah and that I come to you with the truth, so become Muslim.’ They said, ‘We know nothing about that.’ He said it three times… He said, ‘What kind of man is ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Salaam among you?’ They said, ‘He is the best of us and the son of the best of us; he is the most knowledgeable of us and the son of the most knowledgeable among us.’ He said, ‘What would you think if he became Muslim?’ They said, ‘May Allaah protect him from that! He would never become Muslim.’ He said, ‘What would you think if he became Muslim?’ They said, ‘May Allaah protect him from that! He would never become Muslim.’ He said, ‘What would you think if he became Muslim?’ They said, ‘May Allaah protect him from that! He would never become Muslim.’ He said, ‘O son of Salaam, come out to them.’ He [‘Abd-Allaah] came out and said, ‘O Jews, fear Allaah! By Allaah besides Whom there is no other god, you know that he is the Messenger of Allaah and that he has come with the truth.’ They said, ‘You are lying!’ The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told them to leave.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 3621) This man’s Jewish origins did not prevent him from being one of those who were given the glad tidings of Paradise before they died. Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “I never heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) saying to any man who walked on the face of the earth that he would be one of the people of Paradise except for ‘AbdAllaah ibn Salaam. Concerning him, the aayah 296

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(interpretation of the meaning) ‘… and a witness from among the Children of Israel testifies that this Qur’aan is from Allaah…’ [al-Ahqaaf 46:10] was revealed.” The Jewish woman who became Muslim was Safiyyah bint Huyay ibn Akhtab, from the Jews of Khaybar, who believed in Allaah as her Lord, Islam as her religion, and Muhammad as her Prophet. This Jewish woman Safiyyah, who embraced Islam, became a mother for all of us Muslims, as Allaah said in the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning): “The Prophet is closer to the believers than their own selves, and his wives are their mothers…” [al-Ahzaab 33:6]. Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stayed between Khaybar and Madeenah for three days when he got married to Safiyyah bint Huyay, and invited the Muslims to his waleemah (wedding feast)… The Muslims said, ‘Is she one of the Mothers of the Believers or is she one of those whom his right hand possesses?’ They said, ‘If he covers her, then she is one of the Mothers of the Believers and if he does not cover her, then she is one of those whom his right hand possesses.’ When he got on his camel, he made her ride behind him, and he put a screen between her and the people.” (Reported by alBukhaari, 4762). Safiyyah (may Allaah be pleased with her) was the one for whom the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came out of seclusion (I’tikaaf) especially to accompany her to her house. (The one who is in seclusion for worship is not allowed to come out except for a valid reason). ‘Ali ibn al-Husayn (may Allaah be pleased with them both) reported that Safiyyah, the wife of the Prophet 297

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(peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told him that she came to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to visit him whilst he was in I’tikaaf in the mosque, during the last ten days of Ramadaan. She spoke with him for a while, then she wanted to go back to her house, so the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) got up and took her back… (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 1894) According to another report: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was in the mosque, and his wives were with him, then they left. He said to Safiyyah bint Huyay, “Don’t rush, I will go with you.” Her home was in the house of Usaamah, and the Prophet (peace and blessin Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 3143: Why does Islam continue to be successful in the developed world? Question: Why has Islam continued to be so successful in the modern world? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Islam continues to be successful in the developed world, and elsewhere, because its call is in accordance with the 298

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fitrah or natural inclinations of mankind, and it advocates the best of human values, such as tolerance, love, mercy, truthfulness and sincerity. Islam educates people and lifts them up to righteous conduct, good manners and virtue. Its call is distinguished from others by its realism, balance and moderation. Islam pays due attention to both the soul and the body. It neither suppresses physical desires nor allows extravagance in this regard; it makes a distinction between the natural inclination to enjoy the pleasures of this world and forbidden desires that come under the heading of depravity and perversion. People embrace Islam because they find security, comfort and peace in it, they see a cure for their problems in it, and through it they are able to get rid of their feelings of confusion, anxiety and loss. Islam is the religion of the fitrah, the natural inclination or pattern on which Allaah has created mankind. For this reason, people of sound minds and upright inclinations embrace Islam, as Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘There is no child who is not born in a state of fitrah (i.e., Islam), then his parents make him into a Jew, a Christian or a Magian (Zoroastrian), just as animals produce whole animals (i.e., the animals are born perfect with no part of their bodies missing). Do you find any born with their ears cut off?’” Then Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “ ‘… Allaah’s handiwork according to the pattern on which He has made mankind: no change (let there be) in the work (wrought) by Allaah: that is the Standard Religion…’ [al-Room 30:30 – interpretation of the meaning – Yusuf Ali’s translation].” (Reported by alBukhaari, 1359). What is meant is that Allaah has created mankind with the potential to learn the truth, accept 299

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Tawheed (pure monotheism) and submit to Allaah. Their natural inclination is to learn Islam and love it, but a bad education, a kaafir (disbelieving) environment, their own whims and desires and the devils among jinn and mankind turn them away from the truth. Mankind is basically inclined towards Tawheed (pure monotheism), as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) reported that his Lord (Allaah) said: “I created all my slaves as ‘hunafa’ (pure monetheists), but the devils turned them away from their religion.” (Reported by Muslim). For this reason the one who becomes a Muslim after having been a disbeliever is described as having “reverted” to Islam, as this is more correct than saying that he “converted.” When Islam enters a country where there is no nationalism or great legacy of jaahiliyah (ignorance), it spreads quickly because of its strength and the small number of obstacles. You may also see that Islam is suitable for all people, educated and uneducated, male and female, old and young; everyone finds in it what he wants and needs. Those who become Muslim in developed countries realize what their country’s civilization and laws, which have been fabricated from men’s whims and desires, have done to them, and they realize the extent of the misery in which people in developed countries are living. They see how prevalent psychological illnesses, nervous breakdowns, insanity and suicides are, despite the technological advances and great number of discoveries and inventions and modern systems of management. This is because all of that is concerned only with the physical and the outward, but it neglects the inward and fails to nourish and nurture the heart and soul. Allaah says of these people (interpretation of the meaning): “They know only the outside appearance of the life of the world, and they are heedless of the Hereafter.” [al-Room 30:7] 300

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Islam will continue to succeed, with the permission of Allaah, so long as those who work for its sake are sincere and its followers adhere to it and believe in it, and apply its laws. The fact that there are those who are not committed or who fall short will not prevent Islam from succeeding, with the permission of Allaah, and nothing can distort its beauty. Its light will not falter because some people abandon it or fail to adhere to it. What Islam has given humanity in the way of progress and civilization, and lifting them up from the darkness of oppression and enmity, is pride enough. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 3601: Can he call non-Muslims to Islam with the little knowledge that he has? Question: Assalam u alaikum. Is it allowed for someone with little knowledge of Islam to inform other people about Islam just the basics i.e. the five pillars and a few brief points on Islam, directing them to more knowledable sources for further discussion e.g. websites. Or am I doing an injustice to these people? By only giveing them a brief intro and leaving them as they are? For I read that everyone will see Islam at some point in their life. That being the case, if I only give someone a brief intro would it be okay? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 301

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There is nothing at all wrong with conveying what you know of the religion of Allaah to non-Muslims, as long as you are certain that it is correct, such as the basics that you mention, like the five pillars of Islam or the pillars of eemaan (faith). Indeed, this is probably obligatory upon you, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good (Islam), enjoining al-ma’roof (i.e., Islamic monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do) and forbidding al-munkar (polytheism and disbelief and all that Islam has forbidden). And it is they who are the successful.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:104] The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Convey from me, even an aayah.” (Reported by alBukhaari). Ibn Hajar (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: He said in the hadeeth, “even an aayah”, meaning one aayah, as if he was saying that every listener should hasten to convey whatever aayaat he heard, even if it is only a few. Some of the Sahaabah set out to call their tribes to Islam when they had only a little knowledge that they had gained during the brief time they had sat with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). But even though their knowledge was so little, it was correct and was blessed, and because of their sincerity, Allaah benefitted others through it. Al-Tufayl ibn ‘Umar went from Makkah to his people Daws with the limited amount of knowledge that he had, then he came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in Madeenah accompanied by eighty families of Daws, all of whom had become Muslim, and among whom was Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him). Know that some non-Muslims may become Muslim for the slightest reason and by hearing the briefest word said to them. Do not think that the knowledge you have is too little for the purposes of conveying the Message. “… invite 302

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them to your Lord. Verily! You indeed are on the (true) straight guidance.” [al-Hajj 22:67 – interpretation of the meaning]. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 3313: Difficulties facing a Christian girl who wants to take the decision to enter Islam Question: I am a young Christian woman and I have been reading about Islam for some months now. I have already read a translation of the Koran and several books about Islam along with articles and other material I have found on the internet and elsewhere. I do not pretend to know or understand everything, there are many things that still confuse me, and I have a hard time accepting some applications and interpretations of Islam that I have read about. However, I do believe in God and I do believe that Muhammad was his prophet and that the Koran is the revealed word of God. The question is what should I do about it? As I said there are still so many things that I do not know or understand and this is a major decision I am trying to make and to tell the truth it feels like an enormous responsibility and it is quite frightening. What worries me the most is that I don’t know how well I could live by Islam if I converted. I have already changed some things in my life, I have stopped drinking, I avoid pork and I try to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants (or skirts) when I go out. But I also know that there are some things I would not be able to do immediately if I converted, for various reasons, 303

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(at least that is the way it looks to me at this moment), such as wearing hijab. Also, I am currently studying abroad (in the US, but I am from Europe) but I am going home to my family over Christmas. I don’t think I would be able to tell my family right away if I converted and thus I do not know if I could do things such as pray all the five daily prayers, fast or avoid pork while at home over Christmas. Would it be wrong of me converting knowing that I will not be able to fulfill all the obligations that follow (at least not immediately), and knowing that there are still many issues that I do not understand or have a hard time accepting wholeheartedly (due to lack of understanding and knowledge . Please guide me . Answer: Praise be to Allaah. What you have achieved in your quest for the truth is great indeed. All that remains to be done is the most important step you will ever take in your life, which is to pronounce the Shahaadatayn and enter Islam. We truly appreciate the great efforts you have made by reading the entire Qur’aan in translation, and other books and articles about Islam, and also by already giving up some haraam things such as drinking wine and eating pork. The most important thing that you have achieved is your conviction about Islam, the Prophet of Islam and the Book of Islam. From your question we can sum up the obstacles that you face in two points: some social embarrassment some matters that you do not yet fully understand 304

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With regard to the second point, it is not a condition for becoming Muslim that a person should know the entire religion, because it is a vast ocean. You can become Muslim and then learn the religion and develop full conviction about all the rulings of Islam. At the beginning, it is sufficient to believe in the six pillars of faith in general terms (belief in Allaah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, the Last Day and predestination, both good and bad) and to understand and accept in general terms the five pillars of Islam (testifying that there is no god but Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah, prayer, paying zakaah, fasting in Ramadaan, and performing Hajj to the sacred House of Allaah, for the one who is able and has the means). Realize that knowledge and conviction develop gradually, and that faith increases by doing acts of worship and obedience to Allaah, which in turn leads to a deeper understanding and acceptance of the rulings of Islam. With regard to the first point, we are sure that if you enter Islam and are sincere towards Allaah and do righteous deeds, then Allaah will give you the strength, steadfastness, courage and certainty to face all difficulties and overcome them. The experience of other women who have become Muslim before you gives you a good example of what you could be able to do in the future as regards following the rules of Islam, such as hijaab and other issues, despite being surrounded by an overwhelming atmosphere of kufr. We also say that if any woman were to ask us whether she should become Muslim despite not wearing full hijab or stay a kaafir, we would definitely tell her to become Muslim, because the seriousness and danger of remaining a kaafir is far worse than being a Muslim but committing a sin. We understand totally the difficulties and social embarrassment that you speak of, and we know that going 305

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against one’s family and the society in which one lives are very difficult matters, but Allaah makes every difficult thing easy. Allaah says (interpretation of the meanings): “… And Allaah is the Wali (Protector and Helper) of the believers.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:68] “…And whosoever fears Allaah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty).” [al-Talaaq 65:2] “… Allaah will grant after hardship, ease.” [al-Talaaq 65:7] “As for those who strive hard in Us (Our Cause), We will surely guide them to Our Paths (i.e., Allaah’s Religion – Islamic Monotheism)…” [al-‘Ankaboot 29:69] We also want to tell you that it is possible for a person, if he becomes Muslim and fears unbearable persecution or hardship, to conceal his Islam and keep it a secret, hiding his acts of worship from the people around him although it is difficult to do so. But for the sake of following the truth and saving oneself from the punishment of Hellfire, everything becomes easy and the believer can overcome all difficulties. Finally, we can only thank you for the efforts you have made and for sending this question. We hope that the next step, which you should take immediately, is abundantly clear to you from our answer. We will be very happy to help you with anything you may need in the future, and we ask Allaah to guide you to the path of truth, to help you and to make things easy for you. Allaah is the Guide to the Straight Path. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 306

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749: Wants to embrace Islam but has a girlfriend and children Question: Hello, my name is XXXX, and I have decided to embrace Islam as my way of life.. However my girlfriend and soon to be wife has embraced christianity for her way life and for our two children.. I have no problem with her faith, but she always wants me to go to church with them, and sometimes I do to keep the peace. But I’m not sure how I should handle this reguest after I have become a muslim and have embraced Islam.. Can I still attend her church services’s from time to time? How do I handle this dilemma.. She seems to be supportive of my decision to embrace Islam, but Like many others including myself. Untill I did my own research and discovered this magnificent way of life. She’s a bit apprehensive.. Please guide me in the ways of Islam, so as not to hurt our family relationship.. Thank you.. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. First of all, you should hasten to enter Islam, which is easy to do. An explanation of what is involved may be found under Question 114. (See also Questions 122, 158 and 177). Secondly, if this lady becomes a Muslim or one of the People of the Book (Christian or Jewish), repents to Allaah 307

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for the forbidden relationship, and remains chaste, then it is permissible for you to marry her. Thirdly, the children who were born to this woman outside of marriage are not your children; they cannot take your name and must take her name. However, this should not prevent you from treating them kindly, taking care of them and spending on them. In the future, you should try to call them and their mother to Islaam. Fourthly, going to her church and attending rituals of kufr is not advisable, because of the possible negative consequences. We advise you not to do that, but this should not be any obstacle to your entering Islam. If you were to say that it is a choice of either embracing Islam and going to the church with her, or not embracing Islam at all, we would definitely tell you to embrace Islam. But we would like you to think of the meaning of these two soorahs of the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meanings): ”Say: He is Allaah, (the) One. Allaah-us-Samad (The SelfSufficient Master, Whom all creatures need; He neither eats nor drinks). He begets not nor was He begotten; And there is none co-equal or comparable unto Him.” [al-Ikhlaas 112:1-4] ”Say: O Kaafiroon (disbelievers in Allaah, in His Oneness, etc.)! I worship not that which you worship, Nor will you worship that which I worship. And I shall not worship that which you are worshipping. Nor will you worship that which I worship To you be your religion, and to me my religion (Islaamic monotheism).” [al-Kaafiroon 109:1-6] Finally I advise you, a wise man who is striving to make the right choice, hasten to enter Islam and practise it: Allaah will help you to overcome all obstacles. May Allaah take care of you. 308

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Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 2293: Is there any conflict between entering Islam and playing basketball? Question: I am a non-muslim, and I was wondering if I become muslim can I still play basketball. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Yes, you could become Muslim and still play basketball, so long as there is nothing forbidden or harmful involved. Islam does not forbid sports that exercise the body and strengthen its muscles. Indeed, it is the body’s right that its owner should take care of it, as the Prophet of Islam Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Your body has a right over you.” (Reported by alBukhaari, 4800). One of the benefits of basketball is that it is based on aiming the ball correctly. So there is nothing wrong with playing it, so long as it is not combined with something forbidden such as gambling or deliberately harming or hitting others, and as long as it does not distract a person from praying and so on. By the way, I am sure that you are not unaware that there are a number of internationally known basketball players who have embraced Islam. Our advice to you is: don’t hesitate to enter Islam, for there is nothing to stop you. We ask Allaah to help you to follow the truth and to guide you to the way of goodness, for He guides whom He wills to the Straight Path. 309

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Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 3100: Clever guess on the part of a Christian woman Question: Assalamu Alaikum, I am a Christian who is very interested in Islam and I am currently reading a translation of the Koran in my language. I know that women should not touch the Koran while having their menses but since translations are not regarded as the word of God and therefore not equal to the Arabic text, I’d like to know if not touching the Koran during menses also applies to translations. Thank you very much for your help. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. You have hit the nail on the head: your guess is correct. A translation is not like the Mushaf (Arabic text of the Qur’aan) and the same rules do not apply. A translation is like a tafseer (commentary), and so a menstruating woman is allowed to touch it. Your analysis of this matter demonstrates astute reasoning and excellent thinking skills, which makes us feel that you will soon embrace Islam; may Allaah guide you to all good. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 2690: A serious dialogue with a Christian Question: Hello , my name is XXXX and I was taking a look at your web page . I am interested in it because I am in a 310

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Religious Studies class and I am interested in learning more. I just wanted to know your response to this, if I am correct in saying this... In Islam heaven is thought of as paradise of wine, women and song. It is achieved by living a life in which, ironically, one abstains from the things with which he or she will be rewarded in paradise. In addition to this abstentiion, one must follow the five Pillars of Islam. It seems to me that the Islamic faith is a do-it-yourself proposition. Follow this “way of life”, they say, and you will gain favor with God and eventually achieve salvation. There is NO assurance. I would hate to live like that. I realize that Muslims do not believe in “original sin”, but regardless of wether or not a man is born sinful or not, would you not agree that every man/woman is sinful? How does one pay for his/her sin? I understand repentance. I agree with that...but it seems as though one can NEVER do enough to win favor with God. That is why He sent his Son to die for us. All of our sins past present and future. There is no possibility of assurance in the Islamic faith. I think that would be an awful way to live knowing that I was never gonna make it...not knowing of my salvation until the “day of judgement” whether or not I have done enough “goodworks” or prayed enough...etc. I have asked a couple of Muslims in my class whether or not they were for sure if they were going to “paradise” or “heaven” when they died. I have not yet had one reply in the affirmative. Rather, they referred to the imperfection of their lives as being a barrier to this realization. THERE IS NO ASSURANCE IN ISLAM, BECAUSE THERE IS NO ATONEMENT, AND SALVATION DEPENDS

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WHOLLY ON THE INDIVIDUAL’S GAINING ENOUGH “MERIT” Aslo, if I wanted to become a Muslim, I couldn’t. If Muslims think that they are the “chosen people” then why aren’t they spreading their faith. Do you just have to be lucky enough to be born Muslim? If a person wants to become a Christian they can. ANYONE can become a Christian in a matter of seconds. All they have to do is confess that Jesus Christ is who He said He was and repent and believe...that is all a lot easier said than done. But basically that is it. I wasn’t born Christian...or raised Christians assert that Jesus Chrit is the only way to God because Scritpture says, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12) Jesus Christ said himself ”I am the way the truth and the life, NO ONE comes to the Father except through me...” He didn’t say, I am one way or a way or one truth etc....THE WAY!!! I and the Father are ONE! Jn 5:18 I just don’t understand how anyone could be blind to these facts. Unless they are never told. Which was me. I would just like a little feed back Answer: Praise be to Allaah. We appreciate your question concerning the ideas that you have about Islam, and we hope to discuss what you 312

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have written and correct some of your ideas, so as to arrive at a firm conviction of the truth of the matter. What you have mentioned about the Islamic belief about Paradise, and the enjoyment of wine, women and song therein, falls wide of the mark. The pleasures of Paradise are not merely physical in nature, they also include the joy of feeling safe and secure, and of being content with God and being close to Him. The greatest joy of all in Paradise will be seeing God, may He be glorified and exalted. When the people of Paradise see the Holy Face of God, they will forget all other kinds of pleasures that they have enjoying. There is in Paradise everything that will delight the heart and eye; no dirty or evil talk is heard there, nor sinful speech. “No person know what is kept hidden for them of joy as a reward for what they used to do.” [al-Sajdah 32:17 – interpretation of the meaning]. What I am trying to say is that the delights of Paradise are not limited to the kind you refer to in your question. They are far greater than that. You mention the idea that entrance to Paradise will only be granted to those who heed certain prohibitions, which things they will enjoy in Paradise in the Hereafter as a reward for avoiding it in this life. This generalization is not correct at all. Islam is a religion which commands action, not just abstinence. Salvation can only be attained through fulfilling commands, not just by avoiding things that are forbidden. Moreover, not every luxury in Paradise will consist of something that was forbidden in this world and is now being given as a reward. Some of the delights of Paradise will be things that were allowed in this world, such as marriage, good fruits like pomegranate and figs, etc., drinks like milk and honey, and so on. All of these are permitted in this world, and will be delights to be enjoyed in Paradise. The bad qualities of things that are forbidden in this world will not be present in their 313

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heavenly forms. For example, the wine of Paradise, as Allaah tells us, causes neither ghoul (any kind of hurt, abdominal pain, headache, sin, etc.) nor intoxication (see al-Saffaat 37:47). It does not rob a person of his mental faculties, or cause headaches and stomachaches. It is quite different from its earthly counterpart. The point I am making is that the delights of Paradise do not consist only of allowing things that were forbidden in this world. It is also worth pointing out that there are cases where abstention from prohibited things will not be rewarded by being given their equivalent in the Hereafter, whether those prohibited things are food, drinks, deeds or words. Poison, for example, will not be given as a luxury in Paradise, although it is forbidden in this world. The same applies to sodomy, incest and other things which will not be allowed in the Hereafter although they are forbidden in this world. This matter is quite clear, praise be to Allaah. The idea of being guaranteed Paradise, and that a person’s life will be as horrible and unbearable as you describe if he has no such guarantee, is a misconception which itself leads to the results you mention. If you were to say that every person has a guarantee of Paradise, this would be utterly disastrous, because then everyone would commit all kinds of forbidden acts, feeling safe because of this guarantee. Many of the crimes committed by Jews and Christians have been done on the basis of this guarantee, with documents of forgiveness from their priests. Allaah has told us about such people (interpretation of the meaning): “And they say, ‘None shall enter Paradise unless he be a Jew or a Christian.’ Say, ‘Produce your proof if you are truthful.’” [al-Baqarah 2:111] For us Muslims, Paradise is not the matter of our own 314

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desires or the desires of anyone else, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “It will not be in accordance with your desires (Muslims), nor those of the People of the Scripture (Jews and Christians); whoever works evil will have the recompense thereof, and he will not find any protector or helper besides Allaah.” [al-Nisa’ 4:123] There follows a brief summary of the Islamic view regarding a guarantee of one’s destiny. Islam offers a guarantee to every sincere Muslim who obeys Allaah and remains in this state of devotion until he dies, that he will definitely enter Paradise. Allaah says in the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meanings): “But those who believe and do deeds of righteousness, We shall admit them to the Gardens under which rivers flow (i.e., in Paradise), to dwell therein forever. Allaah’s promise is the truth, and whose words can be truer than those of Allaah? (Of course, none).” [al-Nisa’ 4:122] “Allaah has promised those who believe and do deeds of righteousness, that for them there is forgiveness and a great reward (i.e., Paradise).” [al-Maa’idah 5:9] “(They will enter) ‘Adn (Eden) Paradise (everlasting Gardens), which the Most Beneficent (Allaah) has promised to His servants in the unseen: verily, His promise must come to pass.” [Maryam 19:61] “Say: ‘Is that (torment) better, or the Paradise of Eternity promised to the muttaqeen (pious and righteous persons)? It will be theirs as a reward and final destination.” [alFurqaan 25:15] “But those who fear Allaah and keep their duty to their Lord (Allaah), for them are built lofty rooms, one above 315

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another, under which rivers flow (i.e., Paradise). (This is) the Promise of Allaah, and Allaah does not fail in (His) promise.” [al-Zumar 39:20] Islam also guarantees the disbeliever who ignores the commands of Allaah that he will definitely enter Hell. Allaah says (interpretation of the meanings): “Allaah has promised the hypocrites, men and women, and the disbelievers, the Fire of Hell, therein shall they abide. It will suffice them. Allaah has cursed them and for them is the lasting torment.” [al-Tawbah 9:68] “But those who disbelieve, for them will be the Fire of Hell. Neither will it have a complete killing effect on them so that they die, nor shall its torment be lightened for them. Thus do We requite every disbeliever!” [Faatir 35:36] Allaah will say to the disbelievers on the Day of Judgement (interpretation of the meaning): “This is Hell which you were promised! Burn therein this Day, for that you used to disbelieve!” [Yaa-Seen 36:6364] Allaah will not go back on His promise to either the believers or the disbelievers. He describes how both of them will be at the end of the Day of Judgement (interpretation of the meaning): “And the dwellers of Paradise will call out to the dwellers of the Fire (saying): ‘We have indeed found true what our Lord had promised us; have you also found true, what your Lord promised (warnings, etc.)?’ They shall say, ‘Yes.’ Then a crier will proclaim between them: ‘The Curse of Allaah is on the zaalimeen (polytheists and wrongdoers, etc.).” [al-A’raaf 7:44] 316

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Everyone who believes and does righteous deeds, and dies in this state, will definitely enter Paradise. Everyone who disbelieves and does evil deeds, and dies in this state, will definitely enter Hell. One of the great guiding principles of Islam is that the believer should tread a path between fear and hope. He should not take it for granted that he will enter Paradise, because this will make him complacent, and he does not know in what state he will die. Nor should he assume that he is going to Hell, because this is despairing of the mercy of Allaah, which is forbidden. So the believer does righteous deeds, and hopes that Allaah will reward him for them, and he avoids evil deeds out of fear of the punishment of Allaah. If he commits a sin, he repents in order to gain forgiveness and protect himself from the punishment of Hell. Allaah forgives all sins and accepts the repentance of those who repent. If a believer fears that the good deeds he has sent on before him are not enough, as you suggest, then he will increase his efforts, in fear and hope. No matter how many righteous deeds he has sent on before him, he cannot rely on them and take them for granted, or else he will be doomed. He keeps striving and hoping for reward, and at the same time he fears lest his deeds be contaminated with any element of showing off, self-admiration, or anything that will lead to them being rejected by Allaah. Allaah describes the believers (interpretation of the meaning): “… those who give that (their charity) which they give (and also do other good deeds) with their hearts full of fear (whether their alms and charity, etc.) have been accepted or not), because they are sure to return to their Lord (for reckoning).” [al-Mu’minoon 23:60] So the believer keeps on striving, fearing and hoping, until he meets his Lord, believing in Tawheed (Divine Unity) and doing righteous deeds, and earns the pleasure of his 317

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Lord and Paradise. If you think about the matter, you will realize that these are the right motives for action, and that righteousness cannot be achieved in this life in any other way. As regards what you say about original sin, this matter needs to be approached from several angles. Firstly: The Islamic belief concerning human sin is: the individual bears the responsibility for his own sin; no one else should bear this burden for him, nor should he bear the burden for anyone else. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And no bearer of burdens shall bear another’s burden…” [Faatir 35:18]. This refutes the idea of original sin. If the father commits a sin, what fault is that of his children and grandchildren? Why should they bear the burden of a sin that someone else committed? The Christian belief that the descendents should bear the sin of their father is the essence of injustice. How can any sane person say that the sin should be carried down the centuries by all of humanity, or that the children, grandchildren and subsequent descendants should be tainted because of their father’s sin? Secondly, making mistakes is a part of human nature. Our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “Every son of Aadam is bound to commit sins…” (reported by al-Tirmidhi, 2423), but Allaah has not left man unable to do anything about the mistakes that he makes. He gives man the opportunity to repent, and so the hadeeth (words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) quoted above concludes: “…and the best of those who commit sins are those who repent.” The mercy of Allaah is clear in the teachings of Islam, as Allaah calls His servants (interpretation of the meaning): “Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allaah, verily Allaah forgives all sins. 318

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Truly, He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” [al-Zumar 39:53] This is human nature, and this is the solution to the problem of sin. But to make this human nature, which is bound to make mistakes, a barrier between the servant and his Lord which will prevent him from ever earning the pleasure of God, and to say that the only way to reach God is through His sending His (so-called) son down to earth to be humiliated and crucified while his father looks on, so that mankind could be forgiven, is an extremely odd idea. Just describing it sounds so unlikely that there is no longer any need to refute it in detail. Once, when discussing this issue with a Christian, I said, “If you say that God sent down His son to be crucified to atone for the sins of the people alive at his time and afterwards, what about those who had come before and died as sinners before the time of Christ, and had no opportunity to know about him and believe in the Crucifixion so that their sins might be forgiven?” All he could say was: “No doubt our priests have an answer to that!” Even if they do have an answer, it is bound to be concocted. There is no real answer. If you really examine the Christian teaching on human sin with an open mind, you will see that they say that God sacrificed His only son to atone for the sins of mankind, and that this son was a god. If it was true that he was a god who was beaten, insulted and crucified, and died, then this doctrine contains elements of blasphemy because it accuses God of weakness and helplessness. Is God really incapable of forgiving the sins of all His servants with just one word? If He is Able to do all things (and the Christians do not dispute this fact), then why would He need to sacrifice His son in order to achieve the same thing? (Glorified and exalted be He far above what the wrongdoers say about Him!) 319

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“He is the Originator of the heavens and the earth. How can He have children when He has no wife? He created all things and He is the All-Knower of everything.” [alAn’aam 6:101 – interpretation of the meaning] An ordinary man would not accept anyone harming his child; he would come to his defence, and would never hand him over to an enemy who would insult him, let alone leave him to face the worst kind of death. If this is the attitude of a mere created being, what then of the Creator? Thirdly, the Christian doctrine of original sin has a negative effect because, as you have mentioned, it does not require any duties of man other than to believe that God sent His son to this earth to be crucified and to die to atone for the sins of mankind. Thus a person becomes a Christian and is to earn the pleasure of God and be admitted to heaven. Moreover, the Christian believes that everything that happened to the son of God was only to atone for his sins, past present and future, so there is no need to wonder why Christian societies have seen such an increase in murder, rape, robbery, alcoholism and other problems. After all, did not Christ die to atone for their sins, and haven’t their sins been wiped out, so why should they stop doing these things? Tell me, by your Lord, why do you sometimes execute murderers, or put criminals in jail, or punish them in other ways, if you believe that the criminal’s sins have all be atoned for and forgiven through the blood of Christ? Is this not a strange contradiction? You ask why, if the Muslims are the chosen people of mankind, they do not spread their religion. The fact of the matter is that sincere Muslims have always sought to do just that. How else could Islam have spread from Makkah to Indonesia, Siberia, North Africa, Bosnia, South Africa and all parts of the world, East and West? The faults in the behaviour of some modern Muslims cannot 320

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be blamed on Islam; those faults are the result of going against Islamic teachings. It is not fair to blame the religion for the faults of some of its adherents who have gone against it or gone astray. Are Muslims not being more just than Christians when they affirm that the sinner is threatened with the punishment of Allaah unless he repents, and that for some sins there is a deterrent, a punishment to be carried out in this world as an expiation for the Hereafter, as in the case of the punishments for murder, theft, fornication/adultery, etc.? What you say about it be so easy to become a Christian, as compared to becoming a Muslim, is clearly mistaken. The key to Islam is no more than two simple phrases: “Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wa anna Muhammadan Rasool-Allaah (I bear witness that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah).” With these few words, a person enters Islam in a matter of seconds. There is no need for baptism or priests, or even to go to a certain place such as a mosque or anywhere else. Compare this with the ridiculous procedures of baptism which the Christians do when they want to admit someone to the Church. Then there is the fact that the Christians venerate the cross on which Jesus was tortured and crucified in great pain – as they claim. They take it as a sacred object of blessing and healing, instead of scorning it and hating it as a symbol of oppression and the worst possible way for the son of God to die! Do you not see that the Muslims are closer than others to the truth, because they believe in all the Prophets and Messengers, respecting them all and recognizing that all of them taught the truth of Divine Unity (Tawheed) and that each of them was appointed by Allaah and sent to his people with laws that were appropriate to the time and place? When the fair-minded Christian sees the followers of Islam believing in Musa (Moses), ‘Eesaa (Jesus), and 321

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Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and in the original Torah and Gospel, as well as the Qur ’aan, and sees his own people denying the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and rejecting the Qur’aan, wouldn’t his open-mindedness make him think that the Muslims are most likely to be right? You say that the Messiah said, “No one comes to the Father except through me”. We need, first of all, to be sure that these words can truly be attributed to Jesus. Secondly, this is clearly not true. How then could mankind have known God at the times of Nooh (Noah), Hood, Saalih, Yoonus (Jonah), Shu’ayb (Jethro), Ibraaheem (Abraham), Musa (Moses) and other Prophets? If you were to say that during the time of Jesus (upon whom be peace) and up to the time of the Final Prophet, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) the Children of Israel had no other way to know the religion of Allaah except through the way of Jesus, this would be correct. Finally, you quote the Messiah as saying, “I and the Father are one”. This is clearly not correct. If we examine the matter objectively, without letting our own desires get in the way, it becomes clear that the conjunction “and” in the phrase “I and the Father” implies that two separate entities are involved. “I” is one entity, and “the Father” is another. If you say, “So-and-so and I”, it is obvious to any rational person that they are two separate people. The equation 1+1+1=1 makes no sense to any rational person, whether he is a mathematician or not. Finally, I advise you (and I do not think that you will reject this advice) to think deeply about what you have read, putting aside your background, any pre-conceived ideas, your own desires and feelings of attachment to your religion or culture, and to seek guidance sincerely from Allaah. Allaah Most Generous and will never let any of 322

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His servants down. Allaah is the One Who guides to the Straight Path, and He is Sufficient for us and is the best disposer of affairs.. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 3023: She is in love with a Muslim and wants to marry him – does she have to become Muslim? Question: I am a Christian and is in-love with a 19-year old Muslim boy. He is very nice for accepting me not as a virgin.He proposed marriage to me and I am making plans about it. Is it necessary for me to convert to Islam if I marry him even I don’t like to do so. We talked about the children that they will be Muslims. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Yes, it is very necessary for you to enter Islam. This will solve all the problems, from making the marriage valid, through giving a united direction to the future upbringing of the children, to attaining success and happiness in the Hereafter. Your feelings of unease about taking this step may be due to the difficulty of leaving behind what you are used to and the religion that you have grown up in, or reluctance to go against your family and relatives, or fear of hostility and criticism from others, or concern about losing some worldly advantages. But all these issues will 323

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be easily overcome when you seek the help of Allaah and are determined to follow the truth. The wise person is prepared to make sacrifices and put up with difficulties for the sake of following the truth, because the truth is worth pursuing. Any difficulties encountered will become easy because the result is happiness in this world and the next, and Paradise the width of heaven and earth. Moreover, your marriage will help you to live in love and harmony with your husband (if he repents to Allaah for the forbidden relationship and becomes a religious person of good morals) and his Muslim family. There will be no dispute as to which religion the children will be raised in, and they will not feel that there is any conflict in the family, so they will be able to grow up free of the psychological complexes that result from the parents’ difference of religion. Other people have felt something similar to the feelings that you are experiencing now, as is reflected in the following story, which happened at the time of the Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Anas reported that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to a man, “Become Muslim.” He said, “I feel that I don’t want to.” He said, “Become Muslim, even if you feel that you don’t really want to.” (Reported by Imaam Ahmad, 11618; Saheeh al-Jaami’, 974). This is the correct approach which people should have towards the true religion. For more information on the topic of marriage, please see Questions #3025 and #2527. We wish you every good thing and success. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com)

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2889: The boss is a gay kaafir Question: as salaamu al laaykum, i am recently working for a computer company and i found out that my boss (who is a kaffir) is a gay. i have heard this from one of the other co-workers. until now, i thought he was a normal person but he never bother me. is it allowed for a muslim to work for such a people? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. If your work is permitted (according to Islam), then it permissible for you to continue working for this person, as long as you are careful to watch how he behaves. If you can call him to Islam, and explain to him in a wise and appropriate manner the ruling concerning this evil deed that he is committing (if you are sure that this is indeed the case), then you will have a great reward from Allaah. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 2847: Wants to become Muslim but lives in drug country Question: Dear Sir,

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For a muslim, is it allowed to use drugs like cocaine . Here in Columbia 70 % of the people use it . When I want to become a muslim, must I stop it ? I am waiting for your answer. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. It is a great thing to learn that you are thinking of embracing Islam, although you live in a country where drugs are rife and are not following any religion at present. We were amazed and impressed to know that a man living in such circumstances has reached the point where he wants to become Muslim, but Allaah is able to do all things, and He guides whom He wills to the Straight Path. Perhaps the Divine care has been preparing you to embrace the true religion in spite of the intense darkness, kufr (disbelief) and drug-ridden atmosphere that surround you. The unbelieving man is dead at heart even though his body is alive, but when Allaah guides him to the light of Islam, his heart awakens and he sees a whole new meaning to life as he starts to follow the guidance of his Lord. Allaah says in His Holy Book (interpretation of the meaning): “Is he who was dead (without Faith by ignorance and disbelief) and We gave him life (by knowledge and faith) and set for him a Light (belief) whereby he can walk amongst men, like him who is in the darkness (of disbelief, polytheism and hypocrisy) from which he can never come out?…” [al-An’aam 6:122]. So come to true life, and follow the Light which Allaah has revealed, and you will find that which will delight you and bring you peace of mind, when you worship Allaah. As regards the issue of drugs, no doubt you would expect 326

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this great religion to forbid everything that is harmful and to permit everything that is beneficial, and not to allow man to lose his mind and go crazy, doing all kinds of foolish things without any awareness and destroying his body. This is what happens when people take drugs and prevent themselves from thinking about or worshipping Allaah. This poison opens the door to hostile aggression, and destroys religion, lives, minds, honour and wealth. And so no wise person can doubt that drugs are totally forbidden. We fully understand that addiction is no straightforward matter and that recovery is no simple process, but this should not prevent you from entering Islam and embracing the way of truth with which Allaah has sent His Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Rest assured that when you embrace Islam, this will give you strength and will-power to overcome this addiction and rid yourself of this disease and sin. All of this may take some time, but this should not make you hesitate to embrace Islam. Become Muslim and you will be safe from the problems of this world and the punishment of the Hereafter. We are prepared to stand by you and help you with any difficulty that you may face. We thank you for your question and ask Allaah to guide you soon. Peace be upon those who follow the truth. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 1402: Starting-point for one who wants to enter Islam Question: I want to know is there a starting point for a man who Is 327

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interested in the true religion of Islam. I have been given many different answers. Answer: Yes, there is a very important starting-point, which is to pronounce the Shahaadatayn (Declaration of Faith). This is the only answer to your question. (For more details please see the questions and answers under the heading: ‘Aqeedah (basic tenets of faith) – important matters for those who wish to enter Islam. We extend the warmest of welcomes to you, and offer our congratulations for the new direction you are about to take. May Allaah protect you from all evil. Islam Q&A All praises be to Allah, the Lord of the Universe. May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon Muhammad, His last messenger. The objective of this handout is to correct a false idea spread among those willing to adopt Islam as their faith. Some people face difficulties on the basis of their mistaken belief that entering into the Islamic fold requires an announcement from the concerned person in the presence of high ranking scholars or sheikhs, or reporting this act to the courts or other authorities. It is also thought that the act of accepting Islam, should, as a condition, have a certificate issued by the authorities as evidence to that effect. We wish to clarify that the whole matter is very easy and that none of the above conditions or obligations are required. For Allah, the Almighty is above all comprehension and knows well the secrets of all hearts. Nevertheless, those who wish to adopt Islam as their religion are advised to register themselves as Muslims 328

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with the concerned governmental agency, as this procedure may facilitate many matters for them including the possibility of performing Hajj and Umrah. If anyone has a real desire to be a Muslim and has the full conviction and strong belief that Islam is the true religion ordained by Allah (SWT) for all human beings, he should pronounce the “Shahada” (testimony of faith) without further delay. The Holy Qur’an is explicit in this regard, as Allah (SWT) has stated. “Truly, the Religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.” (3:19) In another verse of the Holy Qur’an, Allah (SWT) has stated: “And whosoever desires a religion -other that Islam, never will it be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who are lost.” (3:85) In addition, Islam is the only Religion prevailing over all other religions, Allah (SWT) has stated in the Holy Qur’an: “And to thee We have sent the Book in truth, (This Qur’an) confirming the scripture that came before it, and a witness over it...” (5:48) Muhammad, the Prophet of Allah (Peace and blessing of Allah be upon him), said: “Islam is based on five pillars: testifying that there is no god worthy to be worshipped but Allah, that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah and His servant; performing the prayer; paying the Zakat (obligatory charity); fasting the month of Ramadan; and performing Hajj.” The Shahada can be declared as follows: “ASH-HADU ANLAA ILAHA ILLA ALLAH WA ASH 329

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H A D U A N N A M U H A M M A D A N A B D U H U WA RASUULUH.” The English translation is: “I bear witness that there is no deity worthy to be worshipped but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger.” However, it would not be sufficient for anyone to utter only this testimony orally either in private or in public. One should believe in it from the heart with a firm conviction and unshakable faith. If he is truly sincere and complies with the teachings of Islam in his daily life he will find himself a newborn person. This will move him to strive more and more to improve his character and draw nearer to perfection. The light of the living faith will fill his heart until he becomes the embodiment of that faith. What should be next after declaring the testimony of faith (Shahada) and then becoming a Muslim? He should know the real concept underlying this testimony, which means accepting the Oneness of Allah and the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), as the last of the Prophets, and meeting its requirements. He must behave accordingly applying this true faith to everything he says or does. What do the words of “Shahada” signify. The significant point which every Muslim must know is the truth that there is no god to be worshipped other than Allah, (Glory be to Him). He is the only true God, Who Alone deserves to be worshipped, since He is the Giver of life and Sustainer and Nourisher of mankind and all creation with His unlimited bounties. Man must worship Allah, Who Alone is worthy of worship. The second part of the “Shahada” i.e. “Wa ashhadu anna 330

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Muhammadan abduhu wa rasuluh” means that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the servant and chosen messenger of Allah. No one should be in any doubt about this matter. In fact, the Muslim has to obey the commands of the Prophet (PBUH), to believe in what he has said, to follow his Teachings, to avoid what he has forbidden, and to worship A11ah alone according to the message revealed to him. What is the meaning of worship? It simply means rendering sincere service; showing reverence for Allah. In a deeper shade of meaning, it implies total submission and complete obedience to Allah’s Commandments both in utterances and actions, whether explicit or implicit and in private or public. Worship falls into two categories: 1. Visible (manifest or outward) 2. Invisible (concealed or inward) Visible worship includes acts such as uttering the two parts of the “shahada”, performing prayers, giving Zakat (obligatory charity), observing the fast in the month of Ramadan, performing Hajj, recitation of the Holy Qur’an, supplication, adoring Allah by praising Him, purifying our bodies before prayers, etc. This type of worship is associated with the movement of the parts of human body, [actions]. Invisible worship is to believe in Allah, in the Day of Judgment, in the Hereafter, in the Angels, in the Books of Allah, in the Divine Decree of destiny (that good and bad are determined by Allah alone) This type of worship does not involve movements of parts of the body but it surely has a bearing on one’s heart which, subsequently, affects one’s way of life (beliefs). 331

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It should be borne in mind that worship not dedicated to Allah alone, will be rejected as one form of polytheism or “shirk”, which amounts to apostasy, from the Islamic point of view. The next step for a devotee newly converted to Islam is to purify himself by taking a bath (total ablution). He should then resolve to comply with all the principles and rules of Islam in their entirety. He disowns all forms of polytheism and false beliefs. He should reject evil and be righteous. Such rejection of evil and being righteous is one of the requisites of the motto of Islam that is, Lailaha Illal Laah. Allah has stated in the Holy Qur’an: “... whoever disbelieves in false deities and believes in Allah, hath grasped the most trustworthy handhold, that will never break...” (2:256) We have to consider that when we declare from our hearts, “there is no god worthy to be worshipped but Allah.” It implies on our part of love, devotion, faith and obedience to the rules of Islamic legislation which are legally binding on all Muslims. It is a requirement of “there is no god worthy to be worshipped but Allah,” to love for the sake of Allah and to reject for the sake of Allah. This is the finest anchor of belief which make material the meaning of “AL-WALA” and “AL-BARA”. It means that a Muslim should love and be loyal to his Muslim brothers. He should, as a practice, dissociate himself completely from the practices of unbelievers and refuse to be influenced by them, both in worldly and religious matters. We conclude with a humble prayer to Allah that He may cleanse the hearts and souls of those who are genuine seekers of truth and may He bless the community of believers. Ameen. By www.Islamunveiled.com (www.islam-qa.com) 332

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2875: A Muslim working for an atheist Question: Salaam. I work for a person who doesnt believe in God. Is it ok to work for him ?? He is ok with me and allows time off for prayers. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. If your work is in a permitted field, there is nothing wrong with your working for him, so long as you continue to obey the commands of Allaah. You should also do your duty of da’wah, calling to Allaah in the best way. Perhaps Allaah will guide him through you. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to ‘Ali (may Allaah be pleased with him) when he sent him to the kuffaar on the day of Khaybar: “Call them to Islam and tell them what they have to do, for by Allaah, if Allaah were to guide one man through you, it would be better for you than red camels.” (Red camels were the most precious form of wealth to the Arabs at that time). (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 2787). Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 2666: Wants to embrace Islam but is nervous about going to the mosque Question: I am very much interested in becoming a righteous Muslim 333

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women and God willing I will be soon declaring my faith. However I am very concerned about the fact that I have never stepped foot inside of a mosque and feel very selfconscious about attending since I am not familiar with the customs. How would you suggest I go about attending service for the first time? How important is it that a Muslim goes to mosque? I am from Brooklyn, NY would you suggest a mosque with a womens group that I could attend? Thank You, Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Praise and thanks be to Allaah for His help and the blessing of your being convinced of Islam and eager to enter this religion. This would not have happened if Allaah had not willed it, for He guides whom He wills to the Straight Path. We are overjoyed to learn that you will soon enter Islam and become our sister in faith. You do not have to go to a mosque in order to enter Islam. It is enough for you to pronounce the Shahaadatayn (declaration of faith) and begin to practice the rituals of Islam straight away. On this web-site you will find a number of questions and answers which will explain how to enter Islam and what the new Muslim should do. If you can go to a reliable Islamic centre to register your Islam and get to know some Muslim sisters, this is good. After you become Muslim, there is nothing wrong with going to the mosque to spend time there, so long as you adhere to the conditions required by sharee’ah, such as not being on your period. Do not worry about not knowing what goes on in the mosque; in sha Allaah you will find some Muslim sisters who can explain to you how worship is conducted in the mosque. We also want to tell you that a woman’s prayer and worship in her own home are better than her prayer in the 334

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mosque, as our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us. We will do all we can to let you know the name of an Islamic centre or mosque in your city as soon as possible. We welcome you warmly to the oasis of Islam. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 2273: The Ten Commandments Question: i’m trying to determine if there is anything in the Quran similar to the Ten Commandents in the Old Testament, particularly the line “thou shalt not kill.” i have been using search functions on several Quran translation sites to no avail. thank you very much Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Thank you for your question, which shows an interest in the Qu’ran. We are happy to answer your question here. There are in the Qur’an certain aayaat (verses) which some scholars call the verses of the Ten Commandments, because they include ten important commandments given by Allaah to mankind. These aayaat are to be found in two passages of the Qur’an. The first is in Soorat al-An’aam, where Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 335

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“Say: ‘Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from: Join not anything in worship with him; be good and dutiful to your parents; kill not your children because of poverty – We provide sustenance for you and for them; come not near to al-fawaahish (shameful sins, illegal sexual intercourse, etc.), whether committed openly or secretly; and kill not anyone whom Allaah has forbidden, except for a just cause (according to Islamic law). This He has commanded you that you may understand. And come not near to the orphan’s property, except to improve it, until he (or she) attains the age of full strength; and give full measure and full weight with justice. We burden not any person, but that which he can bear. And whenever you give your word (i.e., judge between men or give evidence, etc.), say the truth even if a near relative is concerned, and fulfil the Covenant of Allaah. This He commands you, that you may remember. And, verily, this (i.e., Allaah’s commandments mentioned in the above two verses) is my Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path. This He has ordained for you that you may become al-muttaqoon (the pious).” [al-An’aam 6:151-153] The second passage occurs in Soorat al-Israa’, and may be considered as a commentary on the passage quoted above. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one or them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them, but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility 336

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through mercy, and say: ‘My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was small.’ Your Lord knows best what is in your inner-selves. If you are righteous, then, verily, He is ever Most-Forgiving to those who turn unto Him again and again in obedience, and in repentance. And give to the kindred his due and to the poor and to the wayfarer. But spend not wastefully (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift. Verily, spendthrifts are brothers of the shayaateen (devils), and the Shaytaan (Satan) is ever ungrateful to his Lord. And if you turn away from them (kindred, poor, wayfarers, etc. whom We have ordered you to give their rights, but if you have no money at the time they ask you for it) and you are awaiting a mercy from your Lord for which you hope, then, speak unto them a soft kind word (i.e., Allaah will give to me and I will give to you). And let not your hand be tied (like a miser) to your neck, not stretch it forth to its utmost reach (like a spendthrift), so that you become blameworthy and in severe poverty. Truly, your Lord enlarges the provision for whom He wills and straitens (for whom He wills). Verily, He is Ever AllKnower, All-Seer of His slaves. And kill not your children for fear of poverty. We provide for them and for you. Surely the killing of them is a great sin. And come not near to unlawful sexual intercourse. Verily, it is a faahishah [i.e., anything that transgresses its limits (a great sin)], and an evil way (that leads one to Hell unless Allaah forgives him).

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And do not kill anyone which Allaah has forbidden, except for a just cause. And whoever is killed (intentionally with hostility and aggression and not by mistake), We have given his heir the authority [to demand qisaas – Law of Equality in punishment – or to forgive, or to take Diya (blood money)]. But let him not exceed limits in the matter of taking life (i.e., he should not kill except the killer only). Verily, he is helped (by the Islamic law). And come not near to the orphan’s property except to improve it, until he attains the age of full strength. And fulfil (every) covenant. Verily! The covenant will be questioned about. And give full measure when you measure, and weigh with a balance that is straight. That is good (advantageous) and better in the end. And follow not (O man, i.e., say not, or do not or witness not, etc.) that of which you have no knowledge. Verily! The hearing, and the sight, and the heart, of each of those you will be questioned by Allaah. And walk not on the earth with conceit and arrogance. Verily, you can neither rend nor penetrate the earth, nor can you attain a stature like that of the mountains in height. All the bad aspects of these (the above mentioned things) are hateful to your Lord. This is part of al-hikmah (wisdom, good manners and high character, etc.) which your Lord has inspired to you (O Muhammad). And set not up with Allaah any other ilaah (god) lest you should be thrown into Hell, blameworthy and rejected (from Allaah’s mercy).” [alIsraa’ 17:23-39] Perhaps after enjoying reading these verses, you will have a better idea of the Qur’aan than before, and this will be 338

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the beginning of a fundamental change in your life, the start of your way to Islam. May Allaah guide and help you always. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance.. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com)

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Chapter 7 2607: Wants to embrace Islam but fears eating pork without knowing Question: As-salaa-mu ‘alai-kum I would like to convert to Islam but I have my reservations on food, especially pork. I am still staying with my Chinese parents whereby pork is a very regular dish. If I were to convert and still stay at home, I am afraid that I may take pork cooked with say chicken without my knowledge. During family get-together dinners/functions, try as I can, I having been trying to avoid the pork dish and I can just ask for God’s forgiveness when I cannot avoid it. If I were to convert and later have to consume pork, can I still ask for God’s forgiveness? I am really very disturbed with this issue and appreciate your advice. Thank you. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. There is no blessing in this world like embracing Islam, and there is no misfortune, sin or tribulation in this world like staying in kufr (disbelief). The created being must enter the religion of the Creator, and not wish for any other religion except Islam. The Creator knows the situation of His creatures and understands their inabilities, 340

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weaknesses, forgetfulness and mistakes, and so He forgives us for mistakes that are made unintentionally. Allaah does not ask anyone to do anything that is beyond his abilities, as he says (interpretation of the meaning): “Allaah burdens not a person beyond his scope…” [alBaqarah 2:286]. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah will forgive my ummah for their mistakes, and for what they forget, and for what they are forced to do.” (Reported by Ibn Maajah, 2033; see also Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1731). What you have mentioned in your question – that you may eat something haraam without realizing – is not something for which you will be punished. As long as you are going to do your best to avoid what Allaah has prohibited – which is what you have indicated in your question – then there is no sin on you. Even if a person does commit a haraam deed, Islam still offers a way out from every sin, in the form of repentance, remorse, determination not to repeat the sin, and seeking forgiveness from Allaah. This guarantees that the sin will be erased. So go ahead with determination, and do not hesitate. Allaah will be with you and will not let you down so long as you are following the religion with which He is pleased. May Allaah help you and keep you on the Straight Path. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 3265: Does the father’s country of origin or the mother’s colour prevent their son from becoming Muslim? Question: Because my father is puertorican and my mother is white does that stop me from becoming a muslim? 341

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. What you mention does not stop you from becoming a Muslim at all. Islam is the religion for all of mankind, no matter what their colour, land, tribe or language. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is the Messenger to all of mankind, of all origins and countries. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Say (O Muhammad): ‘O mankind! Verily, I am sent to you all as the Messenger of Allaah – to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. None has the right to be worshipped but He; it is He Who gives life and causes death. So believe in Allaah and His Messenger, the Prophet who can neither read nor write, who believes in Allaah and His Words, and follow him so that you may be guided.” [al-A’raaf 7:158]. There is no superiority of anyone over anyone else in Islam, except in terms of taqwa (piety, consciousness of Allaah). Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “O mankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Verily, the most honourable of you with Allaah is that (believer) who has al-taqwa (i.e., is one of the muttaqoon – the pious). Verily, Allaah is AllKnowing, All-Aware.” [al-Hujuraat 49:13] In His wisdom, Allaah has made mankind into different peoples and tribes so that they may know one another, not so that they may despise one another. He tells us that the differences in colour and languages are a sign of His greatness and power in creation. He says (interpretation of the meaning): 342

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“And among His Signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth and the difference of your languages and colours. Verily, in that are indeed signs for men of sound knowledge.” [al-Room 30:22] The Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) affirmed the prohibition of racial discrimination and of despising coloured people, when he said in his famous speech: “O people, your Lord is One and your father [i.e., Adam] is one. There is no superiority of the Arab over the non-Arab, or of the nonArab over the Arab, or of the red over the black, or of the black over the red – except with regard to taqwa.” (Reported by Imaam Ahmad, 22391) When a man insulted his brother (in Islam) for having a black mother, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to him, “You are a man who still has jaahiliyyah (ignorance) in him.” Abu Dharr (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “There was an argument between me and one of my brothers whose mother was non-Arab. I insulted him about his mother, and he complained about me to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). I met the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and he said, “O Abu Dharr, you are a man who still has jaahiliyyah (ignorance) in him.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari and Muslim; this version narrated by Muslim, 3139). Hasten to Islam, and you will prosper. You will find in Islam that which will delight you in this world and the next. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com)

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1656: Thinking about becoming Muslim so her Muslim boyfriend might marry her Question: A very personal and difficult to explain question: I have a boy-friend who is originally from XXX, so he is a muslim. He now lives in the XXX and I live in XXX. I am a christian. He has asked me to marry him and I have agreed. The problem is .... his family. They have arranged a future wife for him, but he does notwish to marry her. But out of respect for his father he will anyway, unles I become a muslim. Then he HOPES his father will agree to our marriage. Once I knew this, I asked him, what his family would do if they found out he intends to marry a European girl. He could not really answer that question. Now my question is: Do you have any idea how the family might react, and is it likely that the father would agree if I am a muslim? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. It is difficult to say what their reaction will be. Most parents want their children to marry in accordance with their wishes, and in most cases they will have chosen a wife for their son from their own country, whose customs and tradition are closer to those of the society in which they live. The idea of their son marrying a western woman may be very strange for them and difficult to accept, especially if they have heard about the widespread 344

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promiscuity in the West and the freedom with which Western women enter into relationships. They may also want their son to be near them, and they may be afraid that if he marries someone overseas they will only see him rarely. They may warn him about the consequences of raising his future children in a non-Islamic environment. On the other hand, they might agree if they hear that their son is going to marry a decent, upright Muslim girl, especially if their son is going to stay on and work in the West after completing his studies, and if they give any weight to their son’s own wishes – which is a matter that differs from family to family. Whatever the case, you will not lose anything by entering Islam, whether you marry this man or not. If you become Muslim and marry this man, after you both repent from the forbidden relationship, then you will have got what you wanted. If this marriage is not destined for you, then maybe Allaah will send you another good, clean Muslim man whom you can marry and be happy with. The most important thing here is that you understand that striving to please Allaah by following His religion is more important than all other considerations. In any case, we hope that you will become Muslim and that your hopes will be realized in accordance with the laws of Allaah. Thank you for your trust and your question. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 2585: Wants to embrace Islam but has been advised to wait Question: I have been researching Islam for the past month and have also started to read the Quran. I personally feel that I am ready to take the Shahaada but some of my Muslim friends 345

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do not feel the same way. They are warning me of making a lifelong commitment so hastily but I feel that I am ready. Could you please advise me on what I need to do so that I can readily accept and declare Allah as the one and only true God with a clear conscious that I did not do anything too soon? Thank you. Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Congratulations to you. We could not conceal our joy when we read your question expressing your readiness to enter Islam. The advice you have received from some people to wait is rather strange, but perhaps they are afraid that you may return to disbelief after embracing Islam if you are too hasty. But isn’t death possible at any time? If your answer is yes, do you not see that the best thing to do is to go ahead and enter Islam immediately, so that if your time should come soon, you will meet Allaah as a follower of His religion, Islam, besides which He accepts no other religion. The best of good deeds is the one that is done without delay. Moreover, you have, al-hamdu Lillaah, read about Islam and read the Qur’aan for a reasonable period, so make haste, and do not deprive yourself of the reward which you will earn the sooner you enter Islam. We ask Allaah to help you and make things easy for you, to open your heart to the truth and help you to adhere to it. And Allaah is the source of strength. (al-Mawsoo’ah al-Fiqhiyyah, 2/309). (www.islam-qa.com) 284: How a new Muslim should change his name Question: I was given the name Tyrone Anthony Parker at birth by my non-muslims parents. After taking shahada, I changed 346

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my name to Bilaal Faaruwq Abdus-Salaam. I have recently found out that I shouldn’t have left my family name and I plan on returning to it. If my parents tell me to return to my given name (Tyrone-has pagan origins ; Anthonymeans flourishing) do I have to do it? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. For the one whom Allaah has guided to Islam, it is sufficient for him to choose an Islamic first name for himself and to keep his father’s name or surname, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did not command the Sahaabah to change their fathers’ and grandfathers’ names when they embraced Islam. However, he did change the first names of those who had names with forbidden or undesirable meanings. Because your first name has pagan origins, your changing it to another name, such as Bilaal, is proper and correct. But you should keep the rest of your name and surname as it is; this will please your parents. May Allah guide them, and may He give us and you strength. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 2644: She became Muslim and was cut off by her nonMuslim mother Question: My mother-who is non moslem- has cut off ties with me 347

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for 13 years If I write she doesn’t respond and she disconnected her telephone. Although I know her present adress I fear that if I go there she ‘ll change her residence as she had done before She has a history of mental illness &has been hospitalized severals times When she is at home she prefers to be “left alone” Whenever someone speaks well of me -to try to reconcile us - she accuses them of taking sides with me, gets angry and criticizes the person. Since she has voiced objection to Islam on different occasions’ I feel that it is really my reversion to islam which disturbs her Please advice me ! may Allah reward you Answer: Praise be to Allaah. The sincere believer knows that one of the things that Allaah does is to test His slaves by means of various kinds of trials in order to demonstrate their patience and virtue, and to raise their status, to increase their reward for their steadfastness, and to test their sincerity in following the truth. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “And surely, We shall try you till We test those who strive hard (for the Cause of Allaah) and the patient ones, and We shall test your facts (i.e., the one who is a liar, and the one who is truthful).” [Muhammad 47:31]. Among the different types of test are the various means which the mushrikeen may employ to try to make a believer give up his faith, so they may apply psychological pressure to annoy him and make him go back to kufr. Allaah, may He be glorified, has mentioned this in His Book and has 348

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pointed out how we should respond. He tells us (interpretation of the meaning): “You shall certainly be tried and tested in your wealth and properties and in your personal selves, and you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you (Jews and Christians) and from those who ascribe partners to Allaah, but if you persevere patiently, and become al-muttaqoon (pious), then verily, that will be a determining factor in all affairs, and that is from the great matters, [which you must hold on to with all your efforts]” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:186]. If what is being said or done by others is causing too much psychological pain, then how much worse must it be when it is done by the closest of people, one with whom you share ties of flesh and blood, the mother who gave birth to you? “The hurt caused by those who are related to you is more bitter and painful/ to the soul than the blow of a sword.” [poetry] But when the believer is exposed to the most painful attacks from the closest of people to him, he does not give in or retreat; he follows the Qur’aan in his dealings with the mother who is hurting him or cutting him off and turning away from him. This is illustrated in the following story: Mus’ab ibn Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqaas reported from his father… the mother of Sa’d swore that she would not speak to him, or eat or drink, until he renounced his religion (Islam) and became a kaafir. She said, “You claim that Allaah tells you to honour and respect your parents. I am your mother and I am telling you to do this.” She stayed like that for three days, until she fell unconscious from exhaustion. One of her sons, whose name was ‘Umaarah, got up and gave her water to drink, and she 349

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began to pray against Sa’d. Then Allaah revealed the following aayah of the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning): “And We have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents… But if they (both) strive with you to make you join in worship with Me other of which you have no knowledge, the obey them not, but behave with them in the world kindly…” [Luqmaan 31:14, 15]. (Reported by Muslim, 4432). The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) also suffered rejection at the hands of some of those who were most closely related to him, such as his paternal uncle Abu Lahab, but this did not stop him from spreading the message and conveying the religion, despite the harshness of the opposition. Rabee’ah ibn ‘Abbaad alDayli, who later became Muslim, said: “I saw the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) with my own eyes in the marketplace of Dhoo’l-Majaaz, saying, ‘O people, say Laa ilaaha illAllaah and you will prosper.’ He was going through the alleyways of the market, and the people were gathering around him. I did not see anyone saying anything, and he did not stop saying, ‘O people, say Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah and you will prosper.’ Behind him there was a man with a squint and a handsome face, and his hair in two braids, saying, ‘He is a Sabian and a liar.’ I asked, ‘Who is this?’ They said, ‘Muhammad ibn ‘Abd-Allaah, who is saying that he is a Prophet.’ I asked, ‘Who is this who is denouncing him?’ They said, ‘His paternal uncle Abu Lahab.’” (Reported by Imaam Ahmad, 15448). So, my sister, you should hold fast to your religion and honour and respect your mother as Allaah commands. If she turns away from you and rejects your kind treatment, there will be no sin on you, even if this hurts you, because you are following the true guidance. Bear this with patient perseverance, for you are on the right path of truth. And Allaah is the Source of strength. 350

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Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 1984: Young Girl wants to embrace Islam Question: I go to a 95% muslim school and I have been talking to them, some girls, about Islam and I really understand the islam religion and the ways of life. I want to know all i can find out about islam but there is one problem . My mom . I want to convert but I’m not sure if I know all I need to know now to convert. What should I learn more about??? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. This is a great effort that you have undertaken, and you are to be congratulated for the results of your research and your questioning of the Muslim girls. What you need to know are the basic matters which are easy to learn, such as the meaning of the Shahaadatayn (the two statements of faith) - which are the key to Islam - and the six pillars of faith (eemaan) and the five pillars of Islam. You should also learn how to pray so that you can begin to pray after you pronounce the Shahaadatayn. You can find a lot of information on these matters on this website, in the section on ‘aqeedah (correct belief), under the headings “Issues relevant to accepting and embracing Islam” and “Basic tenets of Islam for non-Muslims.” As regards your mother, we hope that she will not try to 351

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stop you becoming a Muslim. Treat her with kindness and tell her about Islam in beautiful words - maybe she will embrace Islam too. If you are afraid that she may turn against you if she knows about your Islam, then you do not have to tell her about it. Embrace Islam in secret, and do as much as you can of your duties towards Allaah. Allaah will never forsake you; in fact, He will help you and support you, if you turn to Him. We ask Allaah to help you follow the truth and adhere to it. We are prepared to offer any help that we can. Peace be upon those who follow true guidance. And Allaah knows best. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 1930: Doubts of one who is interested in Islam Question: I am a non-Muslim who is very much interested in Islam. I have been trying to do research on my own. However, I came upon some information that I found rather disturbing. It is regarding the Kaaba and the origin of Islam. I was told that Abraham and Ishmael removed all the idols from the Kaaba, but there was one in particular who’s name meant “diety”. I read that this is where the name “Allah” came from and that this diety was the pagan Moon god. His symbol is the crescent moon and Ramadhan is scheduled around lunar activity. I would like an answer to whether or not such a religion existed and is Islam really connected to this pagan practice?

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Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Welcome to a lady who is seeking the true religion and is interested in Islam. We ask Allaah to show you the truth and help you to follow it, and to protect you from Shaytaan and his doubts, and the misguidance of the enemies of Islam. Before I answer your question, I would like to remind you that the way to find out the truth about a religion is to refer to its authentic sources, which in the case of Islam means the Qur’aan, which is the Word of Allaah, and the Sunnah, which is the words of the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), to whom Allaah sent Revelation. One of the mistakes made by some of those who investigate Islam is to refer to sources that are not authentic or material written by those who have ulterior motives and who are enemies of Islam spreading lies about it, to put people off and lead them astray from the Way of Allaah. Turning to your question about the Ka’bah, and Ibraaheem and Ismaa’eel (upon whom be peace), it is very strange to say that they removed all the idols from the Ka’bah except one. This contradicts the historical facts, and does not make sense, because it is known that Ibraaheem and Ismaa’eel were the ones who built the Ka’bah, on the command of Allaah – how could they then have taken idols out of it? How could there have been any idols in it when they were supervising its construction and maintenance by remembering Allaah and calling people to perform Tawaaf around it and come on pilgrimage to it only for the sake of Allaah? The idols came many years afterwards, when some of the Arabs travelled to the kaafir 353

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lands outside the Arabian Peninsula and brought back idols, some of which were placed around the Ka’bah. Then the mushrikeen added more idols until there were 360 of them around the Ka’bah. This remained the case until Allaah sent Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). This was the dawning of the light of Tawheed which drove out the darkness of idolatry. Through him, Allaah defeated the mushrikeen; he broke the idols and purified the Sacred House, thus restoring the Ka’bah to the pure worship of the One God, as it had been at the time of his forefather Ibraaheem, the Friend (Khaleel) of Allaah. There follows an account of the building of the Ancient House, from the Qur’aan and the Ahaadeeth of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). We will begin by quoting from the Qur’aan, where Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): ”And (remember) when Ibraaheem said: ‘My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allaah and the Last Day.’ He (Allaah) answered, ‘As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst indeed is that destination!’ And (remember) when Ibraaheem and (his son) Ismaa’eel were raising the foundations of the House (the Ka’bah), (saying): ‘Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.’ ‘Our Lord! And make us submissive unto You and of our offspring a nation submissive unto You, and show us our manaasik (all the ceremonies of pilgrimage –Hajj and ‘Umrah), and accept our repentance. Truly, You are the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful. ‘Our Lord! Send amongst them a Messenger of their own, 354

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who shall recite unto them Your Verses and instruct them in the Book and al-Hikmah (full knowledge of the Islamic laws and jurisprudence or wisdom or Prophethood, etc.), and sanctify them. Verily, You are the All-Mighty, the AllWise.” [al-Baqarah 2:126-129] ”And (remember) when We showed Ibraaheem the site of the (Sacred) House, (saying): ‘Associate not anything (in worship) with Me, and sanctify My House for those who circumambulate it, and those who stand up for prayer, and those who bow (submit themselves with humility and obedience to Allaah), and make prostration (in prayer, etc.)’ And proclaim to mankind the Hajj (pilgrimage). They will come to you on foot and on every lean camel, they will come from every deep and distant (wide) mountain highway (to perform Hajj).” [al-Hajj 22:26-27] As regards the story of the construction of the Ka’bah in the Sunnah, Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) narrated the story of Haajar, the wife of Ibraaheem and the mother of his son Ismaa’eel. In his report, he said: ”… Ibraaheem brought her and her son Ismaa’eel, while she was still breast-feeding him, and left them in a place near the Ka’bah (meaning near the place where the Ka’bah was later built) under a tree on the spot of Zamzam (meaning the place where Zamzam later appeared), at the highest place in the mosque. In those days there was noone in Makkah nor was there any water. So he left them there and placed near them a leather bag containing some dates, and a water-skin containing some water, then he set off for home. Ismaa’eel’s mother followed him and said: ‘O Ibraaheem, where are you going, leaving us in 355

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this valley where there is no person whose company we may enjoy, nor is there anything (to enjoy)?’ She said this many times, but he did not look back at her. Then she asked him, ‘Has Allaah commanded you to do this?’ He said, ‘Yes.’ She said, ‘Then He will not forsake us,’ and returned, while Ibraaheem went on his way. When he reached al-Thaaniyah, where they could not see him, he turned to face the Ka’bah, raised his hands and offered the supplication: ‘O Our Lord! I have made some of my offspring dwell in an uncultivable valley, by Your Sacred House in order, O Our Lord, that they may perform alSalaat (iqaamat al-salaat), so fill some hearts among men with love towards them, and (O Allaah) provide them with fruits so that they may give thanks.’ [Ibraaheem 14:37] Ismaa’eel’s mother went on suckling Ismaa’eel and drinking from the water (she had). When the water in the water-skin had all been used up, she became thirsty and her child also became thirsty. She started looking at him tossing in agony; she left him because she could not endure looking at him, and found that the mountain of al-Safaa’ was the nearest mountain to her on that land. She stood on it and started looking at the valley keenly so that she might see somebody, but she could not see anybody. Then she descended from al-Safaa’ and when she reached the valley, she tucked up her robe and ran in the valley like a person in distress and trouble, till she crossed the valley and reached the mountain of al-Marwa, where she stood and started looking, expecting to see somebody, but she could not see anybody. She repeated that (running between al-Safaa’ and al-Marwa) seven times.” Ibn ‘Abbaas said: “The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘This is the origin of the tradition of al-Sa’ee (the walking) of people between them (al-Safaa’ and alMarwa).’ When she reached al-Marwa (for the last time), she heard a voice and she made herself quiet and listened attentively. She heard the voice again and said, ‘O 356

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(whoever you may be)! You have made me hear your voice; have you got something to help me?’ And behold! She saw an angel at the place of Zamzam, digging the earth with his heel (or his wing), till water flowed from that place. She started to make something like a basin around it, using her hands in this way, and started filling her water-skin with water from her hands, and the water was flowing out after she had scooped some of it.” The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) added: “May Allaah bestow mercy on Ismaa’eel’s mother! Had she let the Zamzam (flow without trying to control it) (or had she not scooped from that water) (to fill her water-skin), Zamzam would have been a stream flowing on the surface of the earth.” The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) further added: “Then she drank (water) and suckled her child. The angels said to her: ‘Don’t be afraid of being forsaken, for this is the House of Allaah which will be built by this boy and his father, and Allaah never forsakes His people.’ The House at that time was on a high place resembling a hillock, and when torrents came, they flowed to its right and left. She lived in that way until some people from the tribe of Jurhum or a family from Jurhum passed by her and her child, as they (the Jurhum people) were coming through the way of Kadaa’. They stopped and stayed in the lower part of Makkah where they saw a bird that had the habit of flying around water and not leaving it. They said, ‘This bird must be flying around water, although we know that there is no water in this valley.’ They sent one or two messengers who discovered the source of water, and returned to inform them about it. So, they all came (towards the water).” The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) added: “Ismaa’eel’s mother was sitting near the water. They asked her, ‘Do you allow us to stay with you?’ She replied, ‘Yes, but you will have no right to possess the water.’ They agreed to that.” The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) 357

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further added: “Ismaa’eel’s mother was pleased with the whole situation, as she used to love to enjoy the company of the people. So, they settled there, and later on they sent for their families who came and settled with them so that some families became permanent residents there. The child (Ismaa’eel) grew up and learnt Arabic from them, and (his virtues) caused them to love and admire him as he grew up. When he reached the age of puberty, they made him marry a woman from amongst them. After Ismaa’eel’s mother had died, Ibraaheem came after Ismaa’eel’s marriage in order to see his family that he had left before … Then Ibraaheem came and saw Ismaa’eel under a tree near Zamzam, sharpening his arrows. When he saw Ibraaheem, he stood up to welcome him and they greeted one another as a father greets his son or a son greets his father. Ibraaheem said, ‘O Ismaa’eel, Allaah has given me an order.’ Ismaa’eel said: ‘Do what your Lord has ordered you to do.’ Ibraaheem asked, ‘Will you help me?’ Ismaa’eel said, ‘I will help you.’ Ibraaheem said, ‘Allaah has ordered me to build a house here,’ pointing to a hillock higher than the land surrounding it.” The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) added: “Then they raised the foundations of the House (Ka’bah). Ismaa’eel brought the stones and Ibraaheem was building, and when the walls became high, Ismaa’eel brought this stone and put it for Ibraaheem, who stood on it and carried on building, while Ismaa’eel was handing him the stones, and both of them were saying: ‘Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.’ [alBaqarah 2:127]. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) added, “Then both of them went on building and going around the Ka’bah saying, ‘Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily! You are the AllHearer, the All-Knower.’” (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, 3113) Having outlined the historical details of the building of 358

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the Ka’bah, we move on to the idea mentioned in your question that the name of Allaah was derived from the name of an idol. This is an extremely odd idea. How can the name of the Creator, the Evolver, the First, the Almighty, the Compellor be derived from the name of a created idol that could neither benefit nor harm anyone? Allaah says, rebuking the mushrikeen (polytheists) (interpretation of the meaning): “Yet they have taken besides Him other gods that created nothing but are themselves created, and possess neither hurt nor benefit for themselves, and possess no power (of causing) death, nor (of giving) life, nor of raising the dead.” [al-Furqaan 25:3] ”You worship besides Allaah only idols, and you only invent falsehood. Verily, those whom you worship besides Allaah have no power to give you provision, so seek your provision from Allaah (Alone), and worship Him (Alone), and be grateful to Him. To Him (Alone) you will be brought back.” [al-‘Ankaboot 29:17] Allaah describes how Ibraaheem (upon whom be peace) rebuked his father and his people for worshipping idols (interpretation of the meaning): ”When he said to his father: ‘O my father! Why do you worship that which hears not, sees not and cannot avail you in anything?” [Maryam 19:42] ”And recite to them the story of Ibraaheem, when he said to his father and his people: ‘What do you worship?’ They said: ‘We worship idols, and to them we are ever devoted.’ He said, ‘Do they hear you, when you call (on them)? Or do they benefit you or do they harm (you)?’ They said, ‘Nay, but we found our fathers doing so.’ He said, ‘Do you observe that which you have been worshipping, - you and your ancient fathers? – Verily! They are enemies to 359

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me, save the Lord of the ‘Aalameen (makind, jinn and everything that exists), Who has created me, and it is He Who guides me.” [Al-Shu’araa’ 26:69-78] Concerning Ibraaheem’s destruction of his people’s idols, Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): ”Then he turned to their gods and said, ‘Will you not eat (of the offering before you)? What is the matter with you that you speak not?’ Then he turned upon them, striking (them) with (his) right hand. Then they (the worshippers of idols) came towards him, hastening. He said, ‘Worship you that which you (yourselves) carve? While Allaah has created you and what you make?’” [al-Saaffaat 37:9196] After reading all this, how can it be said that Ibraaheem left one idol near the Ka’bah, and that the name of Allaah is derived from the name of an idol? Do you know what “Allaah” means and where this name is derived from? The blessed name “Allaah” is derived from the Arabic verb alaha/ya’lahu/ma’looh [the root of which is the three letters alif, laam, haa’]. This verb includes the meaning of love as well as worship. Allaah, may He be glorified and exalted, is the One Who is loved, glorified and feared by the believers, and they put their hope in Him. As regards to your last question, about whether Islam has anything to do with the worship of idols or heavenly bodies, this is a strange matter indeed. Islam proclaimed the absolute unity of Allaah (Tawheed) and taught that He Alone is to be worshipped, with no partners or associates. Islam came to fight idolatry and put an end to it, so how can it possibly be connected to idol-worship? Perhaps you have read in the Qur’aan the story of the hoopoe who believed only in Allaah; he knew Who his 360

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Lord was, and denounced the worship of stars and planets. Allaah says, relating how His Prophet Sulaymaan (upon whom be peace) conveyed the story to the queen of Yemen at that time (interpretation of the meaning): ”[The hoopoe said] ‘… and I have come to you from Saba’ (Sheba) with true news. I found a woman ruling over them, and she has been given all things that could be possessed by any ruler of the earth, and she has a great throne. I found her and her people worshipping the sun instead of Allaah, and Shaytaan has made their deeds fair-seeming to them, and has barred them from (Allaah’s) Way, so they have no guidance, so that they do not worship (prostrate before) Allaah, Who brings to light what is hidden in the heavens and the earth, and knows what you conceal and what you reveal. Allaah, none has the right to be worshipped but He, the Lord of the Supreme Throne!” [al-Naml 27:22-26] There is also the story of how Ibraaheem rebuked his people for worshipping heavenly bodies, the sun and moon, which Allaah has told us in Soorat al-An’aam (the sixth soorah). The fast of Ramadaan is not connected to the moon because we worship the moon, but because the Lord of the moon has made it a marker of time for us, by which we may organize our worship and other affairs. So we look for the new moon of Ramadaan so that we may worship Allaah Alone by fasting, and we look for the new moon of the following month to mark the end of this annual act of worship. We also look for the timings of Hajj and other acts of worship in a similar way. We hope that this has helped you understand anything that was not clear to you before. Note that this is a serious 361

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issue, and it is not something to be taken lightly. The only religion with Allaah is Islam, which He has chosen for His slaves, and He will not accept any other religion. Come and join the religion of truth, and follow what your Lord has revealed. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 1917: Wants to embrace Islam but is married to a nonMuslim Question: Assalamu Alaikum I have been practicing Islam for a while now and I want to insha-Allah embrace it but there are serious problems that I am encountering. My husband and I have been having marital problems for a while now and even though things are going alright I don’t trust that it would be like this forever because he has these violent ourbursts of rage and I have seriously considered divorcing him after I was advised to do so by our councellor. The problem is that I don’t love him anymore and moreover he won’t allow me to embrace Islam and he refuses to embrace it as well. He said that we would rather break up rather than me becoming Muslim. The other problem is that I have two daughters who are attending a Hindu School and what does the Sharia say about what happens after I convert with regards to my daughters. I have met a wonderful Muslim man and we love each other very much and he asked me twice already to marry him. I did not go to bed with him and that is not our intention. 362

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We love each other for who we are and he is willing to accept my children if they convert as well. He said that he will wait until the end of the year before he goes on with his life because there are other women who he can settle down with but I am his first preference. Please advice me and in English please because I do not understand Arabic. I need to take action about so many things, yet I feel guilty and I feel sorry for my husband because he is trying to make our marraige to work. Unfortunately the religion is a big problem. Your urgent help and co operation will be highly appeciated. Jazak Allah Answer: Praise be to Allaah. Your husband is preventing you from embracing Islam, and does not want to become Muslim himself. He prefers divorce to Islam, although you have tried to persuade him of the truth to no avail. This means that this man is no good. Moreover, you say that he is bad-tempered and violent, that any improvement is only temporary, and that you do not love him at all. If this man is as you say, he is no good from either a religious or a worldly point of view, and there is no use in staying with him. Our advice to you in this case is to leave him immediately, and try hard to gain custody of your two daughters so that they may grow up in Islam. According to Islamic sharee’ah, in such cases custody should be awarded to the Muslim parent, because Islam should prevail, not be prevailed over. As regards the second part of your question, and this man 363

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whom you say is a Muslim, you must make sure that he is a chaste man, not one who is immoral or corrupt. Do not establish any relationship with him before marriage. If you find out for sure that he is chaste and solidly religious, I advise you to marry him as soon as your ‘iddah (waiting period after divorce) is over. I ask Allaah to take care of you by His mercy, to make the right thing easy for you, to help you enter this religion and to save you from kufr and its followers. Remember the story of Pharaoh’s wife, who was Muslim although her husband was a kaafir. Allaah said about her (interpretation of the meaning): ”And Allaah sets forth an example for those who believe, the wife of Pharaoh, when she said: ‘My Lord! Build for me a home with You in Paradise, and save me from Pharaoh and his work, and save me from the people who are zaalimoon (polytheists, wrong-doers and disbelievers in Allaah).’” [al-Tahreem 66:11] May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 655: One who dies believing in Islaam without converting Question: Non-muslim dies, and I know him/her. As far as I know this person beleived and accepted Islam, but died before they could convert. What does Islam say about such a person, is he/she forgiven by Allah or still considered as one of the “kaffar”? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. 364

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If a person does not pronounce the Shahaadatayn and enter Islaam, we cannot say that he is a Muslim, even if he admired Islaam and recognized that it the best religion, a great religion, and so on. Abu Taalib, the uncle of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) died a kaafir, and Allaah forbade His Prophet to pray for forgiveness for him, even though he used to defend the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and said in his poems: ”I do know that the religion of Muhammad is better than all other religions of mankind; were it not for fear of blame or slander, you would find me accepting it completely.” If a person accepts Islaam out of conviction, and begins to practise it, then he is a Muslim, even if he does not register his Islaam officially, or go to a court or Islaamic centre to obtain documentation, or announce it to others. If such a person dies, then we hope for Paradise for him and pray for mercy for him. And Allaah is the One Who sees all that His slaves do. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 219: The merits of Islaam Question: There are many religions. Why do Muslims think that Islam is true. Is there any factual basis? 365

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Answer: Praise be to Allah. This is a reasonable enough question for one who has not entered Islam, but one who believes in and practices this religion already knows the blessings which are his because of this religion. There are many reasons for this, which include the following: (1) The Muslim worships One God, Who has no partner, and Who has the most beautiful names and the highest attributes. Thus the Muslim’s focus and aim is concentrated, focused on His Lord and Creator; he puts his trust in Him and asks Him for help, patience and support; he believes that Allaah is able to do all things, and has no need of a wife or son. Allaah created the heavens and earth; He is the One Who gives life and death; He is the Creator and Sustainer from Whom the slave seeks provision. He is the All-Hearing Who responds to the supplication of His slave, and from Whom the slave hopes for a response. He is the All-Merciful and AllForgiving, to Whom the slave turns in repentance when he has committed a sin or fallen short in his worship of Allaah. He is the Omniscient and All-Seeing, who knows all intentions and what is hidden in people’s hearts. The slave feels ashamed to commit a sin by doing wrong to himself or to others, because his Lord is watching over him and sees all that he does. He knows that Allaah is All-Wise, the Seer of the Unseen, so he trusts that what Allaah decrees for him is good; he knows that Allaah will never be unjust to him, and that everything that Allaah decrees for him is good, even if he does not understand the wisdom behind it. (2) The effects of Islaamic worship on the soul of the Muslim include the following: Prayer keeps the slave in contact with his Lord; if he enters it in a spirit of humiliation and concentration, he will feel 366

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tranquil and secure, because he is seeking a “powerful support,” which is Allaah, may He be glorified and exalted. For this reason, the Prophet of Islaam, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to say: “Let us find relaxation and joy in prayer.” If something distressed him, he would hasten to pray. Everyone who finds himself faced with disaster and tries prayer finds strength, patience and consolation, because he is reciting the words of his Lord, which cannot be compared to the effect of the words of a created being. If the words of some psychologists can offer a little comfort, what do you think of the words of the One Who created the psychologist? Now let us look at zakaat, which is one of the pillars of Islaam. Zakaat purifies the soul from stinginess and miserliness, and accustoms people to being generous and helping the poor and needy. It will bring a great reward on the Day of Resurrection, just like other forms of worship. It is not burdensome, like man-made taxes; it is only 25 in every thousand, which the sincere Muslim pays willingly and does not try to evade or wait until someone chases him for it. Fasting involves refraining from food and sex. It is a form of worship, and a way in which one can feel the hunger of those who are deprived. It is also a reminder of the blessings of the Creator, and it brings rewards beyond measure. Hajj is the Pilgrimage to the sacred House of Allaah, which was built by Ibraaheem (Abraham, upon whom be peace). By performing Hajj one is obeying the command of Allaah and the call to come and meet Muslims from all over the world. (3) Islaam commands all kinds of good and forbids all kinds of evil. It encourages good manners and proper 367

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treatment of others. It enjoins good characteristics such as truthfulness, patience, deliberation, kindness, humility, modesty, keeping promises, dignity, mercy, justice, courage, patience, friendliness, contentment, chastity, good treatment, tolerance, trustworthiness, gratitude for favours, and self-control in times of anger. Islaam commands the Muslim to fulfil his duty towards his parents and to uphold family ties, to help the needy, to treat neighbours well, to protect and safeguard the wealth of the orphan, to be gentle with the young and show respect to the old, to be kind to servants and animals, to remove harmful things from the road, to speak kind words, to forgive at the time when one has the opportunity to take revenge, to be sincere towards one’s fellow-Muslims, to meet the needs of the Muslims, to give the debtor time to repay his debt, to prefer others over oneself, to console others, to greet people with a smiling face, to visit the sick, to support the one who is oppressed, to give gifts to friends, to honour his guest, to treat his wife kindly and spend on her and her children, to spread the greeting of peace (salaam) and to seek permission before entering another person’s house, lest one see something private that the other person does not want one to see. Some non-Muslims may do these things out of politeness or good manners, but they are not seeking reward from Allaah or salvation of the Day of Judgement. If we look at what Islam has prohibited, we will find that it is in the interests of both the individual and society as a whole. All these prohibitions serve to safeguard the relationship between the slave and his Lord, and the relationship of the individual with himself and with his fellow-man. The following examples demonstrate this: Islam forbids the association of anything in worship with Allaah and the worship of anything other than Allaah, 368

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because this spells doom and misery. Islaam also forbids visiting or believing soothsayers and fortune-tellers; magic or witchcraft that may cause a rift between two people or bring them together; belief in the influence of the stars on events and people’s lives; cursing time, because Allaah is directing its affairs; and superstition, because this is pessimism. Islam forbids cancelling out good deeds by showing off, boasting or reminding others of one’s favours; bowing or prostrating to anything other than Allaah; sitting with hypocrites or immoral people for the purposes of enjoying their company or keeping them company; and invoking the curse or wrath of Allaah on one another or damning one another to Hell. Islaam forbids urinating into stagnant water; defecating on the side of the road or in places where people seek shade or where they draw water; from facing the qiblah (direction of prayer) or turning one’s back towards it when passing water or stools; holding one’s penis in one’s right hand when passing water; giving the greeting of salaam (peace) to one who is answering the call of nature; and putting one’s hand into any vessel before washing it, when one has just woken up. Islaam forbids the offering of any nafl (supererogatory) prayers when the sun is rising, when it is at its zenith, and when it is setting, because it rises and sets between the horns of Shaytaan (Satan); praying when there is food prepared that a person desires; praying when one urgently needs to pass water, stools or wind, because that will distract a person from concentrating properly on his prayer. Islam forbids the Muslim to raise his voice in prayer, lest it disturb other believers; to continue offering supererogatory prayers at night when one feels drowsy 369

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such a person should sleep then get up; to stay up all night in prayer, especially one night after another; and to stop praying when there is doubt as to the validity of one’s wudoo’ - unless one hears a sound or smells an odour. Islaam forbids buying, selling and making “lost and found” announcements in the mosque - because it is the place of worship and remembrance of Allaah, where worldly affairs have no place. Islam forbids haste in walking when the iqaamah (call immediately preceding congregational prayer) is given, and prescribes walking in a calm and dignified manner. It is also forbidden to boast about the cost of building a mosque; to decorate a mosque with red or yellow paint or adornments which will distract the worshippers; to fast day after day without a break; and for a woman to observe a supererogatory fast when her husband is present without his permission. Islaam forbids building over graves, making them high, sitting on them, walking between them wearing shoes, putting lights over them or writing on them. It is forbidden to disinter the dead or to take graves as places of worship. Islam forbids wailing, tearing one’s clothes or leaving one’s hair unkempt when a person dies. Eulogizing the dead in the manner of the times of Ignorance (Jaahiliyyah) is also forbidden, although there is nothing wrong with informing others that a person has died. Islaam forbids the consumption of riba (interest); all kinds of selling which involve ignorance (of the product), misleading and cheating; selling blood, wine, pork, idols and everything that Allaah has forbidden - their price, whether bought or sold - is haraam; najash, which is offering a price for something one has no intention of buying, as happens in many auctions; concealing a product’s faults at the time of selling; selling something 370

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which one does not own or before it comes into one’s possession; undercutting, outbidding or out bargaining another; selling produce before it is clear that it is in good condition and free of blemish; cheating in weights and measures; and hoarding. A partner who has shares in a plot of land or a date palm tree is forbidden to sell his share without consulting his partners. It is forbidden to consume the wealth of orphans unjustly; to bet or gamble; to take anything by force; to accept or offer bribes; to steal people’s wealth or to consume it unjustly; to take something for the purpose of destroying it; to undermine the value of people’s possessions; to keep lost property which one has found, or to keep quiet about it and not announce it, for it belongs to the one who recognizes it; to cheat in any way; to ask for a loan with no intention of repaying it; to take anything of the wealth of a fellowMuslim, unless it is given freely, because what is taken because of another person’s shyness is haraam; and to accept a gift because of intercession. Celibacy and castration are forbidden, as is marrying two sisters, or a woman and her aunt (paternal or maternal), whether he marries the aunt after marrying her niece or vice versa, for fear of breaking the ties of kinship. It is forbidden to make deals in marriage, such as saying “Let me marry your daughter and I will give you my daughter or sister in marriage.” Such reciprocal deals are a form of oppression and injustice, and haraam. Islaam forbids mut’ah (temporary marriage), which is a marriage contract for a period of time agreed by the two parties, at the end of which the marriage expires. Islaam forbids intercourse with a menstruating woman, until she has purified herself (by taking a bath after her period ends), and also forbids anal intercourse. A man is forbidden to propose marriage to a woman when another man has already proposed to her, unless the other man withdraws his proposal or gives him permission. It is forbidden to marry a previously371

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married woman without consulting her, or a virgin without seeking her permission. It is forbidden to wish (a newly married couple) “Bi’l-rafaa’ wa’l-baneen (a joyful life and many sons),” because this is the greeting of the people of Jaahiliyyah, who hated daughters. The divorced woman is forbidden to conceal what Allaah has created in her womb (if she is pregnant). A husband and wife are forbidden to speak (to others) about the intimacies of married life. It is forbidden to turn a woman against her husband or to take divorce lightly. It is forbidden for a woman to ask for another’s divorce, such as asking a man to divorce a woman so that she can marry him. A wife is forbidden to spend her husband’s money without his permission, or to keep away from his bed without good reason, because the angels will curse her if she does that. A man is forbidden to marry his father’s wife, or to have intercourse with a woman who is pregnant from another man. It is forbidden for a man to practise ‘azl (coitus interruptus) with his free wife without her permission. It is forbidden for a man to return home from a journey late at night and startle his family, unless he has previously notified them when he will arrive home. A man is forbidden to take anything of his wife’s mahr (dowry) without her consent, or to keep annoying his wife so that she will give up her wealth. Islaam forbids women to make a wanton display of themselves (tabarruj). It also forbids extreme forms of female circumcision. Women are forbidden to admit anyone into their husband’s home without his permission; his general permission is acceptable so long as they stay within the limits of sharee’ah. It is forbidden to separate a mother and child (in case of divorce); to let one’s womenfolk behave foolishly (in an immoral fashion) and not say anything; to let one’s gaze wander everywhere; and to follow an accidental glance with an intentional glance. 372

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Islaam forbids the eating of dead meat, regardless of whether it died by drowning, strangulation, shock or falling from a high place; eating blood, pork and anything slaughtered in a name other than that of Allaah or for idols; eating the flesh or drinking the milk of beasts that feed on filth and waste matter; eating the flesh of every carnivorous beast that has fangs and every bird that has talons; eating the meat of domesticated donkeys; killing animals by keeping them and throwing stones at them until they die, or detaining them without food until they die; slaughtering with teeth or nails; slaughtering one animal (for food) in front of another; or sharpening the knife in front of the animal to be slaughtered. In the area of clothing and adornment, men are forbidden the extravagance of wearing gold. Muslim are forbidden to be naked or to expose their thighs; to leave their clothes long (below the ankles) and trail them on the ground for the purpose of showing off; and to wear clothes that will attract attention. It is forbidden to bear false witness; to make false accusations against a chaste believing woman; to accuse someone who is innocent; to utter lies; to slander and backbite; to call people by offensive nicknames; to spread gossip and malicious slander; to make fun of the Muslims; to boast about one’s status; to shed doubts on a person’s lineage; to utter slander, insults and obscenities; to speak in an indecent or rude manner; or to utter evil in public, except by one who has been wronged. Islaam forbids telling lies; one of the worst kinds of lie is to lie about dreams, like fabricating dreams and visions in order to prove one’s virtue, or make some material gains, or to frighten an enemy. Muslims are forbidden to praise themselves, or to talk in a secret way: two may not converse secretly to the 373

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exclusion of a third, because this is offensive. It is forbidden to curse a believer or someone who does not deserve to be cursed. Islaam forbids speaking ill of the dead; praying for death; wishing for death because of some suffering that one is passing through; praying against one’s self, one’s children, one’s servants or one’s wealth. Muslims are told not to eat the food that is directly in front of others or to eat from the centre of the dish or platter; rather they should eat from what is directly in front of them or thereabouts, because the barakah (blessing) comes in the middle of the food. It is forbidden to drink from a broken edge of a vessel, because this could cause harm; or to drink from the mouth of a vessel; or to breathe into it. It is forbidden to eat while lying on one’s stomach; to sit at a table where wine is being drunk; to leave a fire burning in one’s house when one sleeps; to sleep with Ghamr in one’s hand, like an offensive smell or the remainder of food (grease); to sleep on one’s stomach; or to talk about or try to interpret bad dreams, because these are tricks of the Shaytaan. It is forbidden to kill another person except in cases where it is right to do so; to kill one’s children for fear of poverty; to commit suicide; to commit fornication, adultery or sodomy (homosexuality); to drink wine, or even to prepare it, carry it from one place to another, or sell it. Muslims are forbidden to please people by angering Allaah; to offend their parents or even to say “Uff” (the slightest word of contempt) to them; to claim that a child belongs to anyone but his real father; to torture by means of fire; to burn anyone, alive or dead, with fire; to mutilate the bodies of the slain; to help anyone commit falsehood; or to cooperate in wrongdoing and sin. It is forbidden to obey any person by disobeying Allaah; 374

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to swear falsely; to swear a disastrous oath; to eavesdrop on people without their permission; to invade people’s privacy or look at their private parts; to claim something that does not belong to one or that one did not do, for the purpose of showing off; to look into someone’s else’s house without permission; to be extravagant; to swear an oath to do something wrong; to spy on others or be suspicious about righteous men and women; to envy, hate or shun one another; to persist in falsehood; to be arrogant or feel superior; to be filled with self-admiration; to be pleased with one’s arrogance. Islam forbids taking back one’s charity, even if one pays to get it back; employing someone to do a job without paying him his wages; being unfair in giving gifts to one’s children; bequeathing everything in one’s will and leaving one’s heirs poor - in such a case the will should not be executed; writing a will that concerns more than one third of one’s legacy; being a bad neighbour; or changing a will to the detriment of one or some of one’s heirs. A Muslim is forbidden to forsake or shun his brother for more than three days, except for a reason sanctioned by sharee’ah; to hold small stones between two fingers and throw them because this could cause injury to eyes or teeth; to include his heirs in a will, because Allaah has already given heirs their rights of inheritance; to disturb his neighbour; to point a weapon at his Muslim brother; to hand someone an unsheathed sword, lest it harm him; to come (walk) between two people except with their permission; to return a gift, unless there is some shar’i objection to it; to be extravagant; to give money to foolish people; to wish to be like someone to whom Allaah has given more of something; to cancel out his charity by giving offensive reminders of his giving; to wilfully conceal testimony; or to oppress orphans or scold one who asks for help or money. It is forbidden to treat with evil medicines, because Allaah would not create a cure for this ummah which includes something that He has forbidden. It is forbidden to kill women and children 375

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in warfare; to boast to one another; or to break promises. Islaam forbids betraying a trust; asking for charity that one does not need; alarming a Muslim brother or taking away his possessions, whether jokingly or seriously; changing one’s mind after giving a gift, except in the case of a gift from a father to his child; practising medicine without experience; or killing ants, bees and hoopoe birds. A man is forbidden to look at the ‘awrah (private parts) of another man, and a woman is forbidden to look at the ‘awrah of another woman. It is forbidden to sit between two people without their permission; or to greet only those whom one knows, because the greeting is to be given to those whom you know and those whom you do not know. A Muslim is forbidden to let an oath come between him and good deeds; he should do what is good and make expiation for the oath. It is forbidden to judge between two disputing parties when one is angry, or to judge in favour of one party without hearing what the other has to say. It is forbidden for a man to walk through the marketplace carrying something - like a sharp weapon - that could harm the Muslims, unless it is properly covered. A Muslim is forbidden to make another person get up, so that he can take his place. There are more commands and prohibitions which came for the benefit and happiness of individuals and mankind as a whole. Have you ever seen any other religion that can compare to this religion? Read this response again, then ask yourself: is it not a great pity that I am not one of them? Allaah says in the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning): “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85] Finally, I hope that everyone who reads this will be guided 376

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to the correct way and to follow the truth. May Allaah protect you and us from all evil. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 1150: Circumcision and Choosing a Name for a New Muslim Question: Assalam alaikum I am a young man from Denmark, who for some time have been interested in Islam. I have now reached a point where I am absolutely sure that I want to become a Muslim. My questions are as follows:Since I would have to be circumcised to become Muslim (this I gladly accepts) I would like to know how this comes about. Is it done by a doctor, an imam or by oneself? - I feel changing my name as I become Muslim is a truly happy occasion. But I would like to now which of the following names you find to be most suitable as my new first name? Qasim Aasim Taymullah or Sayyid I will be very grateful indeed to get a response to my letter. Sincerely 377

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Answer: All Praise is due to Allah, All Praise is due to Allah for having guided you to this path which you would not have been guided to without Allaah’s Guidance. Your interest in embracing our religion is very pleasant news for us tonight. We pray to Allaah that you successfully embrace Islam and become steadfast on it. As for your first question, if circumcision does not cause you harm, you can have it performed by a surgeon who’s experience and skill you trust. If it would cause you harm, then you don’t have to do it and that will not adversely affect your Islam, InShaa’a Allah (Allah Willing). As for changing your name, note that the most beloved names to Allah are: Abdul-llah (The Slave/worshipper of Allah) and Abdul-Rahman (The Slave/worshipper of the Most Merciful – one of the names of Allah). This came to us in the authentic Hadeeth (sayings) of the Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon Him) which was narrated by Muslim (hadeeth number 3975). If you want us to choose one of the names that you have listed, you can use Aasim which means: protector – preserver – defender – guarder. We pray to Allaah for you to have a Blissful and Pleasant life in the shadow of the Great Islam. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 861: Wants to embrace Islam but there are no Muslims Town Question: I am very interested in learning more about and embracing the religion of Al-Islam. My problem is that I live in an 378

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area that has no Muslim community at all. No places of worship, no study groups, nothing. What is the best way for me to get started learning what I should know? Answer: Al hamdulilah As soon as you have come to know, dear noble inquirer, that Islam is the true religion of righteousness and the straight path, you should hasten to embrace it and begin practicing the Islamically-prescribed obligations, such as the prayer, etc. Your earning to learn about Islam is a wonderful thing for which you should be commended. Your unfortunate complaint regarding the absence of a helpful surrounding and a righteous environment is certainly a valid one and to a degree a problem; however, this obstacle no doubt can be overcome by the will of Allaah. For example there are several pages on the Internet that you can use to gain knowledge and benefit. You can also correspond to the various Islamic organizations and publishing houses to get valuable and informative books about Islam. There may be an Islamic center in your town or in a nearby town that you can go to, even if only once a month, to get to know your fellow Muslim sisters and to get advice from them and work with each other in enjoining righteousness and good deeds. Perhaps you can use the internet as an avenue to find out the addresses of Islamic centers in any particular city or state. If it is possible for you to move to a city where there is a Muslim community or an Islamic center which adheres to true, mainstream Islam (followers of the Sunnah and the united Islamic community), this would be very good. If, in the worst case, may Allaah forbid, lets suppose you don’t find even a single Muslim about you, this would 379

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not ever prevent you from holding fast to the religion of Islam. In Islam you have an ever-persistent relationship with your Lord; you worship Him and talk to Him and ask Him for guidance, support, and aid in adhering to His religion; you feel His company and security by your prayers to Him your seeking refuge in Him—to an extent that will compensate you more than the absence of anybody else, and will allay your loneliness and the inability to meet fellow sisters in faith and religion. Consider the situation of the followers of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) who embraced Islam at its inception. They remained alone and estranged among their tribes and people, each one worshipping Allaah from his place until the Prophet migrated to al-Madinah, at which time they migrated with him and supported him in establishing the Islamic state. We ask Allaah for your guidance and for you to reply quickly to the call of Allaah and his Prophet (peace be upon him), and we wish you happiness in this life and the hereafter. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 758: Wants to accept Islam but fears for her mother’s health Question: I am not a muslim but have respect and faith for the religion. Though non-muslims are regarded as nonbelievers I do believe in ALLAH, but will not be able to convert because my mother, who is unwell, might not be able to bear losing her only daughter.I am in love with a 380

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muslim man and we want to get married. I have promised with my sincerest intentions that if we do get married and have children, they will follow Islam. Is there any way of us getting married without me converting and I would also appreciate if I could be told where I can read more on this subject. Thank You. Answer: All Praise be to Allaah. To the noble inquirer: You have traversed an important part of the path to the truth and directing yourself towards it. From what I have been able to gather from your question, I understand that you wish to embrace Islam but what is preventing you from doing so is fear for your sick mother’s health upon hearing the news. I want you to know that overcoming this obstacle is an easy matter, as it is possible for you in a practical way, to conceal your acceptance of Islam and not divulge it. You are not required to announce your acceptance of Islam in an Islamic center or anywhere else; all that is required is the pronouncing of the two testimonies of faith (see question(s) ) and the initiation of practicing the rites of the religion. You can pray in private, undisclosed places, for example. In addition, fasting will not be difficult as you can easily advance any appropriate excuse for not eating if something is offered to you during the daylight hours of the month of fasting. Now, I would like to remind you of two things: Firstly, that the driving factor and underlying truth regarding wanting to embrace the religion must be to gain the pleasure and acceptance of your Lord—Allaah, the 381

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Most Glorified and All-High, who does not accept any religion other than Islam, as He has said in his Glorious Book (the Qur’aan), [interpretation of the meaning]: “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam—it will never be accepted from him, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers.” (The Family of Imran, verse 3:85) It has been narrated by Abu Hurairah, may Allaah be please with him, that Allaah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: “By Him in whose hand Muhammad’s soul is (i.e., God, Allaah), there is none from amongst the Jews and the Christians (of these present nations to whom I have been sent) who hears about me and then dies without believing in the message with which I have been sent (i.e. Islamic monotheism), but he will be among the dwellers of the Hellfire.” (Sahih Muslim, Book of Faith, #240). Thus, your objectives in entering Islam are to save yourself from being among the permanent dwellers of Hell in the Hereafter, and to achieve the fantastic reward of the bliss of Heaven, the vastness of which is greater than that of the earth and the skies. Your overriding motive for accepting Islam should not be emotions stemming from your relationship with the Muslim man with whom you are in love. Your embracing Islam is something necessary for yourself whether you marry this man or not. Secondly, obeying God (Allaah) and His Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has a higher priority than your closest relative and most beloved dear one even if it is your mother or your spouse or anyone else. The Prophet of guidance has said : “There are three qualities, for which whoever is characterized by them will relish the sweetness of faith: one to whom Allaah and His Messenger are dearer than all else; one who loves a man only for Allaah’s sake; and one who abhors returning to apostasy after Allaah has rescued him from it as he abhors 382

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being cast into Hell.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Faith, #15). He also said: “No worshipper (and in the hadeeth narrated by ‘Abdul-Warith, no person) is a truthful believer, until I am dearer to him than the members of his household, his wealth and the whole of mankind.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Faith #14). I ask Allaah to hasten you to Islam and to help you firmly establish yourself in it, and to grant you a righteous and successful marriage as well as a blessed family. Indeed, Allaah is the One who guides to the path of truth, success, and righteousness. Please see Subject area :Issues Relevant to New Muslims and Accepting Islam. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 703: Converting to Islam as a religion bringing one closer to God Question: I am very interested in the Islamic religion. What can I do in order to convert to becoming a Muslim? I have always been in search of a religion that makes me feel closer to God, like Islam does. Thank You for allowing me to submit a question. Answer: All praise be to the one, singular Lord, God Almighty, Allaah. 383

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It brought us great joy to hear from the noble inquirer expressing interest in accepting Islam. It is indeed the religion that links the human being to his Lord directly via the belief in the oneness of God and through various acts of worship. It instills peace of mind and an inner serenity to the created human being, embodied in a unique relationship and devout tranquillity, encompassing love for, fear of, hope from, and submission to, God Almighty, Allaah. Indeed, this essence is the true meaning of worship, which comprises and combines acts of the heart with acts of the tongue in remembering God, in addition to the acts of the physical organs. This is manifested through prayer, fasting, paying zakaat (requisite charitable donations to the needy), and reading the Holy Qur’aan, among other acts, which you will find resulting in positive and benevolent effects in yourself, God willing (in shaa’ Allaah). No doubt that if you decide to accept Islam that the conclusion which you will have reached was due to two things: (1) a sound mind and (2) success granted from God (Allaah). As for converting to Islam, it is a very simple and easy thing, consisting of your pronouncing the two testimonies of faith (al-shahaadatain). You will find the details regarding this as well as other relevant information in the answer to question# 114, 179, and 378. Finally, we say to you that you are sincerely welcome as a sister to us in Islam, and we are in the utmost readiness to provide you with any service or information possible. We ask Allaah to fulfill, perfect, and complete His grace and benevolence upon you, and to grant you perseverance in holding fast to the truth. For indeed, Allaah is the One who guides to the path of truth and light. P.S.: If you would like us to assist in guiding you to a reliable local source from which you can learn in person or obtain books, please inform us of your city or town, 384

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and we will try, God willing, to help find you an appropriate contact. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com)

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Chapter 8 378: Declaring shahaadah and performing salaat for a new non-Arabic speaking Muslim Question: I have read the many pages of your web site that instructs a non-believer. I believe that there is only Allah (one God). Ibelieve that Muhammed is the seal of the prophets. History bears this out. My question is: How do I declare this (shahadah) if I do not speak arabic? How do I perform the five daily prayers (salah) without understanding arabic? Finally would I have to change my name? Answer: Praise be to Allaah. To the dear inquirer:I welcome you with a warm greeting. I was besieged with great joy as I discovered your question while browsing through the ten questions which arrived during the past hour today, and it was the dearest question for me. This fact is not surprising, as how could our hearts not open to a wise man who has discovered the truth and has acknowledged and confirmed it for himself—one who wishes to embrace Islaam and asks about the next steps? In reality, everything that poses a problem for you is actually an easy matter, and can be solved simply, God willing (in shaa’ Allaah), so let’s take them one by one: First: all that is required of you to embrace this religion right now as you are reading these lines is to pronounce al-shahaadatain, or the two confirmations and attestations of faith, to the best of your ability. Perfect pronunciation 386

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of the Arabic letters is not required, and the following is a transliteration of the phrases with English letters to help you: ash-hadu an laa ilaahah illallaah (I bear witness and attest that there is no god worthy of worship but the One God Allaah) ash-hadu anna muhammad-ar-rasool ullaah (I bear witness and attest that Muhammad is the messenger of Allaah) After pronouncing them, you should promptly hasten to take a shower to purify yourself and prepare to start performing your regular prayers which will be an obligation as soon as you have declared your belief. Second: If you have not yet learned the manner and characteristics of performing the prayer (i.e. at least the movements and positions), appended to this message is a description from which you can learn. What is requried from you for the time being is to say in the beginning of the prayer and between each movement between positions “Allaahu ak-bar” (a glorification of Allaah). While standing, bowing, prostrating, and sitting, you should say “subhaan allaah wal-hamdu lillaah wa-laa ilaaha illallaahu wallaahu akbar.” (Glory be to Allaah, and praise and thanks be to Allaah, and there is no god but Allaah, and Allaah is the most Exalted and Great.) Then conclude the prayer by turning your head to the right then left, each time saying “as-salaamu alaikum.” This way of performing salaat is permissible for you until you can learn and memorize what should be said in each movement and position of the salaat. Third: You are not required to change your name, and in fact, a number of scholars among the forefathers and modern-day Muslims have indicated declared that your name is in fact the name of one of the prophets! I ask Allaah to aid you and ease your affairs, and to bestow 387

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upon you the blessing of Islaam and perseverence in adhering to it. We are ready and willing to assist in explaining or helping to solve any problem or difficulty you may face, and to provide support and aid in any way possible. Click here to view detailed description of how the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) prayed Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 216: Responding to attacks upon and distortions of Islam Question: I found an offensive site to Islam. Can we do something to explain the truth? Shukran Jazillan Answer: You have discovered pages at a particular site, for which you have asked a proper rejoinder, that indeed show hostility towards the religion of Islam, ridicule the personality of our Prophet (peace be upon him) and carry false accusations and distortions. However, the matter is as said by Allaah (azza wa jall) (interpretation of the meaning): “They want to blow out, with their mouths, the light that Allah has sent, but Allah has decided to bring this light to a completion even though the disbelievers do not like it” (Al-Tawbah 9:32) 388

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I do not see any point in announcing the URL of their page in any other Islamic page which Muslims visit frequently. We should not propagate its existence or invite people to it even by indirect means. What I see as important is that some capable persons should send the proper translation of meanings of the following verse of Qur’an and other such verses to them: “Those who disbelieve spend their wealth in distracting people from the right path, will continue to spend until it becomes a source of regret for them and then they will be overcome. And the disbelievers will be resurrected towards Hellfire so that Allaah may distinguish the evil from the righteous” It should be enough to send them this and similar verses of Quran in rejoinder and to raise their anger. Doing so will be an act of worship and nearness to Allaah as Allaah (azza wa jall) has informed about the true believers (interpretation of the meaning): “They suffer neither thirst nor fatigue, nor hunger in the Cause of Allaah, nor they take any step to raise the anger of disbelievers nor inflict any injury upon an enemy but is written to their credit as a deed of righteousness. Surely, Allaah wastes not the reward of the righteous”(AtTawbah, 9:120) I ask Allaah to reward you for your religious spirit and protect and support you. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 122: Changing one’s name upon accepting Islam Question: Assalamu’alaikum. I am very in love with my girlfriend, a Chinese non-muslim.We’ve been together for 5 years 389

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and planned to be wed soon. The problem is she is the eldest in her family and by tradition has to look after her parents who are non-muslim.I have tried to convert them to the islamic faith but they refused to submit to islam.As a muslim, i respect their decision but will i be doing a sin if they continued to livewith my girlfriend and I after we wed.I deeply love and respect them even though they rejected our religion as they are my girlfriend’s parents. They however were understanding enough to not keep idols and dieties in the house after we wed but they love to eat pork (just like any other chinese) What am i supposed to do? My girlfriend doesn’t eat pork anymore and she has submitted to islam willingly but she is concerned about changing her name as her parents want her to keep her original name(ie Wong Wan Pei). Can this be allowed? Answer: All praise is due to Allah. First of all, we praise Allah the most glorified that He guided this woman to Islam and that you are now allowed to marry her under Islamic law (shari’ah). May Allah the Almighty help you to remain firm toward your faith. Out of compassion and caring for your sake, please allow me to reproach a particular aspect of your question, which is that you did not indicate any regret on your part regarding the sinful and forbidden relationship of taking a girlfriend and continuing with her in a friendship that angers and displeases Allah regardless of the extent of that friendship. Your question focused on a secondary issue regarding the ruling on changing one’s name which is not as serious as what you have practiced for the past five years. Allah the most glorified has forbidden such an indecent relationship in the Qur’an (interpretation of the meaning, ) 390

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“…not committing fornication, nor taking them as lovers (i.e. girlfriends)…” (Al-Maa’ida, 5:5) So, it is obligatory upon you to repent to Allah and to regret what has passed and to have the firm will not to return to the same action again, and to do good deeds and perform acts of worship to expiate the evils of that sin, and Allah is surely forgiving and merciful. (Please see also similar discussion of this issue in question #61) As for your statement: “I deeply love my girlfriend’s parents even though they rejected our religion,” by Allah it is extremely astonishing how a Muslim man that believes in Allah and the last day can love people who are non-believers that don’t believe in Allah and the last day and don’t forbid what Allah forbids and don’t practice the religion of truth and also refuse the religion of Islam??! Is this not a clear violation of Allah’s statement in the Qur’an in surat al-Mujadlilah 58:22 (interpretation of the meaning): “You will not find any people who believe in Allah and the Last Day, making friendship with and loving those who oppose Allah and His Messenger (MuhammadPeace and Blessings of Allah be Upon Him), even if they are their fathers or their sons or their kindred…” We are not saying to you curse them or pick up arms against them; however, it is obligatory upon you to abhor them for their disbelief and their denial of the Lord of the worlds and to hate the invalid and untruthful religion that they are practicing. On the other hand, there is no objection for you to treat them with kindness—while disliking them in your heart—and to be amicable towards them so that perhaps Allah will guide them through you. You will find no conflict or contradiction between these two ideas if you consider them carefully. 391

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Furthermore, there is no objection to her parents living with you after marriage if they do not perform forbidden acts in the home (e.g., eating pork, drinking alcohol, etc.) As for the question raised at the end of your letter regarding changing her name, the answer is: if the name of the person has a forbidden meaning, like the name of an idol or one of their deities or a name that means worshipping other than Allah, such as Abdul-Maseeh (worship per of Jesus the messiah) or Abdul-Hussain (worshipper of Hussain) then it is mandatory to change it. However, if its meaning is permissable and not objectionable, e.g. if it means one of the colors such as red or green or a vocation like carpenter or baker, then it is OK and it is not obligatory to change it. However, if changing the name in official documents would cause the person much distress or harm, then it suffices to change it amongst his family and acquaintances. Finally, I ask Allah to give you and this woman a halaal (lawful and good) and blissful life, full of imaan (faith) and taqwa (piety - God-fearing) and enriched with righteous posterity. All success is from Allah. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 177: A person just accepting Islam should pronounce shahaadah before wudu Question: When a non-believer becomes Muslim, should he pronounce the two testimonies of faith, al-shahaadatain, or perform wudu’ (ablution) first? 392

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Answer: He should say al-shahaadatain first, then he should purify himself for Salat and he can perform ghusl (complete bath) because the prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) ordered some of his companions to perform it when they accepted Islam. See question #179 for an explanation of the two testimonies of Islamic faith. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 83: Obeying a command to do something not permitted in Islam Question: What should one do if one is asked to perform something at work that he feels is contrary to the teachings of Islam? Answer: If a person is ordered to perform a certain assignment at his work, he should consider it—if the act does not involve any disobedience to Allah (subhaanahu WA ta’aala) he should execute it. Otherwise, if it does involve some disobedience to Allah (subhaanahu WA ta’aala), he should not obey the command, or else he will be a partner in sin and wrong-doing. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “A human must not be obeyed if that (i.e., obeying the human) causes disobedience to Allah (subhaanahu wa ta’aala). Indeed, obedience is only in righteous deeds” (Sahih Al-Bukhari with Fath Al-Bari, 13/121; Ahmad, 1/ 393

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91; and the context is found in Al-Silsilah As-Sahihah, No. 181) And Allah (subhaanahu wa ta’aala) said (about the people who went astray) in the Qur’an (an interpretation of the meaning): “They will say: Our Lord! We followed in the footsteps of our leaders and elders and they misguided us from the right path”. From the book What Should You Do in the Following Situations... ? (www.islam-qa.com) 114: What is required to accept and convert to Islam Question: I have a dear friend that has converted to Islam. I am in support of her decision, but would like to understand the way this religion goes about dating. Could you explain the process? Also, how does one go about converting to Islam? What is the process? How long does it take? Answer: To the venerable Ms. (name withheld) (may Allah protect you from every evil), Please accept from me a goodintentioned greeting! I was extremely pleased to receive your questions regarding the nature of the relationship between men and women in Islam and how one goes about embracing this 394

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religion. I also commend and appreciate your wise and mature sense of judgment in supporting your friend’s decision to accept Islam. It shows admirable wisdom and a balanced sense of sagacity and understanding of this blessed event. Regarding the issue of dating in Islam, one must first define what is meant by “dating.” If it is understood to mean how a man and a woman get to know each other for the purpose of marriage, then there are certain guidelines and established procedures which can be discussed. However, if it is understood to refer to casual relationships between men and women who for the purpose of “fun” or “going out” and the such, then there is no provision for this in Islam. Such a situation is not considered respectful for neither the man nor the woman, nor is it constructive for the concept or the building of the family or society or social responsibility. Opening the door to relationships of love and infatuation and passion and premarital sex is categorically prohibited in Islam. It does not lead to the establishment of a family nor to proper and virtuous upbringing of children nor to stability and mutual care and tranquility and peace of mind between a man and woman. Rather, it leads to disorder, the disgracing of one’s honor and dignity, and to a lifestyle similar to that of animals, and to that of illegitimate children who are subjected to life of vagrancy and loss. (Please see question # 61 which addresses the issue of prohibition of pre-marital relationships). As for the former case, regarding how a man and a woman come to know each other for the purpose of marriage, it varies from circumstance to circumstance. Normally if a man has the desire to marry and has the ability to accept the responsibility, and he does not have anyone in mind, he will ask his friends, family, and relatives if there is a lady that may be suitable for him and his expectations 395

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among their acquaintances and relatives. If someone is suggested, he normally asks about her extensively, about her religious observance, her personality, her knowledge, strengths, weaknesses, suitability as a wife willing to accept all the relevant responsibities, etc. If preliminary information seems appealing, then normally she is told that there is someone interested in meeting her and she is likewise given relevant information about him. At this point, assuming the man and the woman as well as both families involved agree that there is potential, then the man usually visits the woman’s family, often accompanied by members of his own. They are given the opportunity to see each other and sit and talk together, to converse modestly (but not in complete solitude) regarding whatever is relevant to making an informed judgment. The intention for this meeting should be for them to be able to make a decision whether or not they feel are mutually suitable. Afterwards, they each evaluate their own and their families’ reactions, and pray to Allah that He guides them to what is in their best interest, and to make them accept the outcome. When both sides feel comfortable and feel they know everything they need to, based on all that has been mentioned such as asking about the other person, knowing their family, meeting in person, etc., they can make a final decision whether to carry on with marriage or not. As for your second question regarding the procedure for embracing the religion of Islam, it is actually an extremely simple process, without complication or prolongment. This is because it is something between a person and his Lord and there are no other parties involved. All that is required of a person in order to embrace Islam is that he or she pronounce the two testaments of belief in the Islamic creed, believing in their meaning, then to take a complete bath with the intention of (ritual) purification 396

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in order to start performing prayers (note to ensure complete cleanliness one should shave pubic and underarm hair, and a man should be circumcized if he is not already—Islam places great emphasis on proper hygiene and personal cleanliness). As for the two testimonies of creed, the first is “ash-hadu an laa ilaaha illa allah” (I testify that there is no deity other then Allah), which means that one believes and confirms that there is nothing to be worshipped other than Allah and that one is prepared to implement His divine rulings and guidlines (shari’a) for all aspects of life. The second is “ash-hadu anna muhammad ar-rasool ullah” which means the belief that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the seal of the prophets (i.e. the final one), whom Allah has sent with the Islamic religion to supercede all other previous religions and that it is obligatory to comply with what he has enjoined, and to abstain and renounce all that he has prohibited and restrained. I tend to gather from your question that there is a degree of pondering on your part or inclination towards embracing the Islamic religion, joining the example of your friend. I would invite you to carry through with it without excessive delay and reluctance, for one does not know when one’s fate will come. So why not meet one’s unavoidable fate as a believer in Allah (God) and the Hereafter, a member of the religion of Islam? It is the religion which Allah has specified that He will not accept any other religion besides it, and He will not save anyone from Hell besides its followers. And no doubt that this step will be the greatest thing ever that you will have experienced during your 33 years of life. Surely you will not regret it at all and Allah will help you to surmount the difficulties you perhaps may face in your path after accepting Islam, such as the scorn of some relatives or family members or the alientation of some friends. 397

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However, the step in fulfilling your destiny is much more important and significant that all this. We pray for you to be bestowed with grace, and may Allah guide you to success in what is the most true and right. Waiting for glad tidings in the near future, may Allah guard and protect you. Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islam-qa.com) 65: Permissibility of using mubahala with kaafir spouse after divorce Question: An American brother who embraced Islam about 3 years ago is asking about ‘MUBAHALA’. His question briefly: After he became a Muslim his wife (a very rigid Catholic) divorced him by the law. He had two children who were given to the mother by the court. He is worried about the accountability in front of Allah for those two children(4 & 5 years old), he wanted to make another trial to take his children but he his lawyer told him that he will definitely loose. Now he is thinking to invite his ex-wife, who can’t afford the cost of appealing and all the hassle of courts, to MUBAHALAH : that is to pray to Allah ‘that God’s curse be on the wrong one and give the children to the one who deserves to keep them’.... he thinks that she will accept to do that as she is a believer of God!! Now what is your opinion? Can he make this? Any other suggestions... he is very upset for his children. Jazak Allahu Khayran 398

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Answer: Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah). Before answering this question, it is important to warn the Muslim brothers residing in countries of the kuffar (unbelievers) of the danger in marrying unbelieving women from these countries which enforce their man-made system of laws. And much of what is ruled upon regarding possession of children is in the favor of the unbelieving mother, due to the consideration that she is a citizen of this country or perhaps any other factor, such as her role as a mother, regardless of her religion. Unfortunately, via this way many Muslim children have been lost and have been converted to Christians. There is a clear violation of a principle of shari’a in this case which asserts that al-islam ya’loo wa laa yu’laa ‘alaih, i.e. Islam must be always given the preference and the highest priority in consideration and nothing can come above it. Accordingly, the child must be given to the Muslim parent when there is a separation between a husband and wife and one of them is Muslim and the other kaafir (unbeliever). So a very urgent advice to the those brothers who are compelled to live in the countries of the kuffar and to submit themselves to many rulings of the jaahiliyya (era of preIslamic ignorance), is that they should not get themselves caught in a bind with such marriages to unbelievers, after which follows much distress. As for the question—what is the ruling regarding inviting the unbeliever wife to make mubaahala—the calling of the unbelievers from ahl il-kitaab (People of the Book) to mubaahala has been revealed in the Qur’an, as in surat Aal ‘Imran, verse 61 (a translation of the meaning): “If anyone disputes in this matter with you now, after what (full) knowledge has come to you, say, ‘Come! Let us gather together—our sons and your sons, and our women and your women, and ourselves and yourselves—then let 399

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us earnestly pray and invoke the curse of Allah on those who are the liars.’ ” (3:61) And mubaahala is a type of ibtihaal (supplication) and it is: the endeavor in making duaa’ for cursing etc, actively performed by two or more parties so that it falls upon one of the two parties. And its definition according to shari’a is the gathering of people when they differ on an issue and the calling for Allah’s curse on the transgressor among them. And the Muslim father’s calling of this woman to mubaahala for Allah’s curse and revenge to descend upon whoever is guilty of falsehood of the two parties would be something prescribed and he can do it so that perhaps it may affect the woman. It is essential and important advice in this aforementioned case that the father maintains a consistent link between himself and his two sons via visits and fosters friendly relations through various gifts and toys so that the children remain on good ties with their father. This will be helpful for him to win them over to the Islamic religion. We ask Allah for protection and to guide our brother’s children to Islam and to inspire his integrity in action and to guide us all to what is correct. Wallahu a’lam (and Allah knows best). Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid (www.islamqa.com) 4: Junob and cannot perform ghusl or tayammum Question: What about the case of one who is traveling by plane on 400

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a long trip and encounters janaba, and is not able to perform ghusl, and there is nothing on the plane that allows him to perform tayammum. If one waits until reaching the final destination, the time for salaat would be over (i.e., salaat that is not combinable with another salaat like fajr, or the time for combining the two salaat like dhuhr and asr would be over), since one may start travel before fajr and not arrive until after sunrise, or start travel before dhuhr and not arrive until after maghrib. So what should one do? Answer: If we assume that he can not make ghusl on the airplane, then this is a case known to scholars of fiqh as the case of the one faqid al-tahoorain “missing the two purifications” (i.e. water for wudu’ and soil for tayammum), and their sayings in this matter differ. Imam Ahmad and the majority of narrators say that the person should pray in his impurity, since this is what is within his capability and ability, and that Allah does not burden a soul more than it can bear. The evidence in this situation is what Imam Muslim narrated in his authentic collection of hadith that the Prophet (peace be upon him) sent some people to search for a necklace that Aa’isha had lost, during which the time for prayer had entered, so they prayed without wudu’ (due to the absence of water). Afterwards they went to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and mentioned this situation to him. The verse allowing tayammum was then revealed.1 The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not disapprove their action and did not command them to repeat the prayer. A similar situation can happen to patients that cannot move their limbs completely (a paralyzed person who has no one to assist him) or prisoners in some cases of being tied-up or hung-up. The intention is one’s prayer should performed and not delayed from its 401

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prescribed time depending on his situation and one is not required to repeat it. This is the most appropriate, as Allah did not burden us with religion. From the book What Should You Do in the Following Situations... ? 1

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