Significance of Hajj

~ The virtues of visiting the Holy cities of Mecca and Medina

When the Sputnik series of satellites launched by Russia in the space sent some of the first photographs of the Earth, the world got to see the actual view of the globe, the seas, the landscapes, the continents and the ecosystem from the Almighty’s perspective. But one thing that stood out and has amazed everyone till date was an unexplainable brightness emanating from near the Middle East. The place was Mecca, and the brightness was that of the Holy Land of Kaba, the consecrated place for the Muslims, and their point of orientation for worship, or Qibla. The Holy Kaba is the point directly above which the Heavens are located in the skies.

From the time when Prophet Ibrahim (AS) laid the foundation stone of Kaba along with his son Ismail (AS), till eternity or the Day of Judgment, neither has nor will the counter-clockwise circumambulation of the place stop or pause even for a moment. While many believe that the foundation of Kaba was built by Prophet Adam (AS) and it was Prophet Ibrahim (AS) who first constructed the Holy Kaba in its present form. After the advent of Islam by Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Kaba became the centre of pilgrimage for followers of Islam and cities of Mecca and Medina as the holy places. It was agreed upon by the warring tribes during Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) time at his incest, that Kaba and the place around it be free from all forms of conflict. Kaba unlike perceived by many non-Muslims is not a symbol of worship or an idol, but it is merely a focal point for Muslims all around the world to face while offering Namaz five times a day. So a Muslim praying and submitting himself in prostration to Allah does not have a picture of Kaba, or city of Mecca or Medina or Masjid-e-Nabvi before him, but a person in India will simply face the West direction, person in Africa will face the North direction and a Namazi in America will orient himself towards South West to offer Namaz. To vindicate the non-symbolism of Kaba for worshipping, it is even said that a person not sure of the exact direction of Kaba can assume any direction as Qibla and offer Namaz, and even during the course of his prayers if he realizes that his orientation towards the Qibla is wrong, the person can re-align himself towards the perceived correct direction. One of the interesting things to note here is that, before Kaba, Masjid-e-Aqsa in Jerusalem was the first Qibla for the Muslims to pray towards. It was once during Zuhar (afternoon) Namaz; Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was leading his followers while praying in Masjid-e-Qiblatain in Medina when he got a command from Allah through Jibraee’l (AS), that henceforth Kaba in Mecca will be the Qibla for Muslims. Rather than finishing the prayers, Allah’s apostle Muhammad (SAW) in order to obey the Almighty’s command, immediately turned himself towards Kaba and completed the remaining Namaz towards the new Qibla. Pilgrims visiting Masjid-e-Qiblatain can clearly see that the Masjid has two portions facing different Qibla’s. Its name was hence coined as Qiblatain (Masjid of two Qibla’s).

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and it is ordained that every capable Muslim, physically and financially; must perform Hajj at-least once during his or her lifetime. The money kept aside for performing Hajj should be Halal or earned through legal means as directed in Quran and Hadees. Hajj is performed on the 8th, 9th and 10th day of Zil-Hijj; the last month of Islamic calendar. Embarking upon the journey to Mecca and Medina for Hajj, is itself a great virtue for an individual from the time he makes a commitment to himself to perform the holy pilgrimage. Though it requires great investment from a person in terms of both physical and financial difficulty, the beautiful ordinance from Allah and in the steps of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is not a rich man’s possession. How then do we reason the not performing of Hajj by some of the most prominent Muslims personalities in India from the field of politics, cinema, sports, arts and business who have all the means but have never been fortunate enough to perform Hajj, while many not so well off people I know from my place and far relatives who have been blessed not once but many times over and have came back more contended and prosperous than ever. Perhaps, as truly said that it is totally Allah’s will, who he desires to visit the holy cities and birthplace of his Prophet (SAW), and for performing Hajj.

From the time when Prophet Ibrahim (AS) laid the foundation of the holy Kaba, the ethnic tribes living in the Arabian Peninsula were following discrete rituals and worshipping idols, which were placed all around the Kaba in Mecca. The sacrificial animals, their meat were strewn around the Kaba and the blood was smeared on its walls as an offering to their gods. Men and women would act indecently going around the Kaba and artists and magicians would make the sanctified place a platform for their performance, making the whole exercise a carnival of immorality; instead of submission and prayers. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) prayed to Almighty Allah, to show the correct path of piety to the followers and guide them. It was then blessed by Allah will that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) summoned the tribes into unity and integrity during the three months beginning from Ramzan till Zil-Hijj when the pilgrimage of Hajj would begin. He laid down rules for everyone; that no wars would take place during this time and people would perform Hajj as per Allah’s guidance. The boundaries or Meeqat for the holy pilgrimage were set in all four directions, beyond which no act of immorality or violence would take place. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) culled all the reprehensible practices and removed the idols from the vicinity of Kaba. The sanctity of Kaba was thus restored and it was until the time when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) shown forth the light of Islam through Qur’an and Hadees that we are still following.

The holy pilgrimage of Hajj begins for a Muslim when he makes a will in his heart to do so. A man on reaching the boundaries of the place of pilgrimage, which is also called as Meeqat, has to shun all his worldly desires, in terms of shaving or combing his hair, applying perfume, indulging in false talks, lies and back biting, seeking sexual pleasures in any form, which can even be looking or glancing at any woman with disrespect and killing of any life forms purposefully. It is said that even trampling a blade of grass or plucking a leaf of plant purposefully will make the Hajj of the person unacceptable while he is on Ihram. These obligations are applicable to women as well as appropriate. While in Ihram a man has to drape himself in a two piece unstitched white cloth leaving his head uncovered and wearing footwear which are open from the top. A woman has to wear free flowing garment providing her enough protection to observe her Hijab. These measures ensure that all people present, in submission of Allah are equal before him and there is no discrimination in terms of gender, race, color or prosperity. And it is upon wearing of Ihram when the pilgrims recite, “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik” (Here I am O Lord! Here I am), that they submit themselves to come close to Allah.

The rituals of Hajj begin with performing of Tawaf, seven times around the Holy Kaba and praying of two Rakat Namaz behind the Mukam-e-Ibrahim (the place from where Prophet Ibrahim (AS) first placed the foundation of Kaba). People visiting Mecca have observed that the Tawaf around Kaba does not stop even for a second and they have seen birds performing Tawaf above the holy place. Following Tawaf, the Muslims have to perform Sa’ee between the mountains of Safaa & Marwaa. This is a Sunnah (holy act) of Hajra (RA) wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was left alone in the deserts around these mountains with her infant son Prophet Ismail (AS) with meager provisions of dates and water, upon Allah’s will. As from Qur'an and Hadees, the desperate mother managed with the limited resource for some time but when the dates and water were finished she still fed the toddler with all the milk she had. And when that also finished owing to lack of food and water for her, she tried to make the baby suckle whatever moisture was left on her lips and tongue, when it yearned for water. But the heat of the desert didn’t leave that for long as well and unable to bear the anguish and thirst of the innocent baby, the distraught mother ran across the slopes of Safa and Marwaa in order to see a caravan or Bedouins who might be carrying water, leaving young Prophet Ismail (AS) on the simmering sands. While in between the slopes she was unable to see her baby, Hajra (RA) would run with hurried steps so as to avoid losing sight of the infant. Even to this day the people performing Hajj have been asked to run hurriedly at specific places marked between Safa and Marwaa, to follow what Hajra (RA) had done centuries ago. She ran seven times between the mountains and this act of her pleased Allah so much that he decreed every Haaji (pilgrim) to follow the same and made it a part of performing the Hajj rituals. Distraught, Hajra (RA) came back to her baby only to find that Prophet Ismail (RA), rubbing the heel of his legs on the sand and a tiny fountain of water emanating from the same place. She hastily started building a mound around the source, but the water started flowing with even more vigor, prompting her to say “Zam Zam” in Arabic meaning “Stop Stop”. The sweetest water (people who have tasted vouch for it) was thus named ZamZam and has been flowing out of that source ever since to this day. It is said, had Hajra (RA) not said asked the water to stop, it would have flooded the whole earth. It is indeed a miracle that millions of Haaji’s visit Mecca during Zil-Hijj as well as many others visiting during other times of the year for Umra, drink ZamZam, make ablutions and carry vast amounts in containers for their relatives back home, but never has the water supply decreased nor the source dried, in spite of being right in the middle of the desert. Perhaps it was Allah’s will to create a reason for presenting the people of the desert an eternal source of sweet water, and a foundation for the holiest city of Mecca to be laid, by asking Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to leave Hajra (RA) and Prophet Ismail (AS) in desert. Because it was after this event that people started settling around Safa and Marwah and the holiest city of Mecca came into existence.

After the Tawaf and Sa’ee the Haaji’s move to the camps of Mina, where they get some time to relax as well as utilize most of the time praying and reciting Qur’an. From the camps of Mina the Haaji’s proceed towards Mount Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad (SAW) delivered his last sermon to the Muslims and provided them all the guidance on how to lead their lives and how to uphold the virtues of the beautiful religion of Islam which was a gift to them from Allah. The plains around the Mount Arafat will be the place wherein all the souls from the time the first life forms appeared on earth till perpetuity, will have to assemble forth Almighty Allah on the Day of Judgment and wherein the evaluation of their sins and virtues will take place. While it is said that the people will run from Prophet Adam (AS) to Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to Prophet Musa (AS) to Prophet Isa (AS) (Jesus) and others in quest of solace from the aura of Allah almighty seeking repentance from their sins and asking for forgiveness, they will hear a soothing voice from one corner, which will be that of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) calling all Muslims; sinners and pious, to come under the shelter of his blessings and wherein he will pray and request Allah to forgive his followers and grant them all, the path to Jannat (Heaven). Allah almighty will surely answers to his dearest Prophets prayers and in time the delinquents will be forgiven after repenting for their misdeeds. Haaji’s start for Mount Arafat from Mina early in the morning after the Fajr (dawn) prayers to reach there by the time of Zuhar (noon). They spend the time at the place until the Maghrib (dusk) prayers, repenting and asking for Allah’s forgiveness for all the sins they have committed and pledging never to repeat them. The scene at Mount Arafat on that day is heart wrenching, when millions of Muslims occupy every nook and corner and being closest to Allah; they cry their heart out seeking exoneration for their wrongdoings. And the Almighty Allah the most Beneficent and Merciful, he does answer the prayers of his lovable worshippers, thus emancipating them of all evils. The Haaji’s return to Mina from Arafat and from there onwards proceed to Muzdalifah on their way to the Jamaraat. Muzdalifah is the place where they are required to collect small pebbles for stoning the Shaitaan (Devil). This particular act is the following of Prophet Ismail (AS) who was being carried away for sacrificing by his father Prophet Ibrahim (AS) on Allah insistence. When Allah asked Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his dearest possession, he knew that it was Prophet Ismail’s (AS) sacrifice that the Almighty desired. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) asked his wife to dress up the child in finest clothes as he was taking him to a marriage ceremony. Neatly groomed and excited at the prospect of the ensuring journey, the young boy accompanied his father, unaware of the truth. On their way, Shaitaan appeared before the child and told that it was not the marriage ceremony that Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was taking him to; instead he was being taken to sacrifice at Allah’s command. To which, young Prophet Ismail (AS), all of seven or eight years replied, “Allah has given me just one life, had He desired that I be sacrificed for his will and resurrected a hundred times over I would have happily done so”, and saying that he picked up some pebbles as his small hands would allow him and threw them at Shaitaan. Twice more the devil tried to distract him and every time Prophet Ismail would throw pebbles at him. Allah Almighty was so greatly impressed by the little child demeanor that ever since the Haaji’s have been asked to follow the Sunnah and stone the devils symbol at those three places called the Jamraat. Haaji’s are instructed to pick only small pebbles at Muzdalifah and not big stones so as to emulate young Prophet Ismail (AS). The events afterwards we are well aware, that Allah replaced the boy with a sheep from the heaven when Prophet Ibrahim (AS) tried to sacrifice him and his obedience and subservience to Allah was verily accepted without Prophet Ismail (AS) being harmed, which has been the basis for Eid-ul-Azha for Muslims all around the world.

After stoning the Shaitaan, the Haaji’s return to perform Tawaf one last time and then the men are required to shave their heads and offer an animal in sacrifice culminating on the 10th day of Zil-Hijj and thus completing the Hajj of an individual. It is said that once a person completes his Hajj, he is purified of all the sins and is as innocent, as a child born from his mother’s womb. People going for Hajj also make it a point to include the holy city of Medina in their itinerary and pray at the sacred places as Masjid-e-Nabvi, Masjid-e-Qiblatain and Masjid-e-Aisha (the only Masjid in the world for women, named after Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) wife Aisha (RA)) and Gaar-e-Hira (a cave where Prophet used to pray in seclusion). Visiting the grave of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and offering Salam is also considered propitious for the pilgrims and so is visiting the graves of other relatives and Sahabi (companions of Prophet) of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

One is compelled to ask as to why a Muslim undergoes these ordeals to perform the various rituals of accomplishing the Hajj? Isn’t praying and observing the other 4 pillars of Islam namely Kalma (declaration of faith), Namaz (prayers 5 times a day), Zakat (charity to the poor) and Roza (fasting during Ramzan) with dedication not enough to purify oneself? The answer is “Yes” and that is the reason Allah has mentioned that all financially and physically capable person to perform Hajj. Since accretion of wealth without using it, even if it is from Halal (legal) source is considered unlawful in Islam. And what better way than to spend it for your own benefit and deriving nearness to Allah, visiting the land trudged by his beloved Prophet (SAW), the place where your religion has its roots and where the Holy Qur’an was descended upon by Allah through his Angel Jibraeel (AS). The following article beautifully highlights the ethics and significance of each action performed during the Hajj pilgrimage:
http://www.islamonline.net/servlet/Satellite?cid=1124781357691&pagename=IslamOnline-English-Hajj_Umra%2FHajjE%2FHajjE

It was in the past that people embarking for the Hajj pilgrimage were advised to repay all their debts, seek forgiveness from their elders and all those who they have sinned and pay one last tribute to their near and dear ones, since the journey and the rituals were so tumultuous that very few could return, especially those travelling from distant lands. Also it was a belief, especially amongst people from South and South East Asia that Hajj should be undertaken only after a person reaches old age, is free from obligations towards his kin’s and has no other desire left for the materialistic self. Unlike older times when people had to travel on foot or on camels or horses through the Arabian deserts in order to reach Mecca and Medina, braving hardships of inclement environment and bandits on the way, the present journey is hardly anywhere close to being called an ordeal. Haaji’s reach Jeddah or Medina within hours by plane and perform all their rituals inside posh air conditioned construction, enabled with latest technology at the marked places, thanks to the efforts and investments of Saudi government. Be it Haram Sharif surrounding the Kaba, the Safa Marwaa, the camps at Mina or the Jamaraat all places are laced with the best of infrastructure and facility in terms of transportation, food, sanitation, security and safety. Even the untoward incidents of the past, like stampede and fire in camps have been addressed with proper planning and use of latest scientific application. It is indeed astonishing that over 3 million pilgrims, from various countries, languages and culture congregating in one place and sequentially observing the rituals of Hajj without failure and mismanagement, though the efforts of those in charge and off course by the grace and blessings of Allah.

The significance of Hajj lies in obliteration of any traces of bias amongst the Haaji’s visiting the holy land, leaving behind all their worldly desires and affiliation, with complete dedication to his creator for those few days. With every individual wearing Ihram, it removes any discrimination in terms of pecuniary well being and presenting each one as an equal before Allah. The significance of Hajj lies in the feeling of subservience before Allah, when a person first steps inside the Haram Sharif and sights the Holy Kaba, the Qibla for all the followers of Islam that he has been facing all his life from thousands of miles away and one which he had seen only in pictures and videos. The moment is beyond definition as the amazed person is lost at words for praising the aura and divinity of the place overwhelmed by occasion with thousands of people performing Tawaf around the Kaba. This is from the point of view of my parents, grandparents and other relatives who have been blessed to perform Hajj. When Haaji’s completes their Hajj, they are freed from all sins and attain a level of respect amongst relatives and friends. People look at them with admiration and every act of theirs is closely followed by others. The onus then lies on the Haaji’s to maintain the level of chastity attained, by staying away from lies, spitefulness, anger and arrogance in their deportment.

Female Education ~ Vision of Islam

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“He didn’t leave us huge properties or great wealth, but he left us enriched with the greatest wealth of Knowledge and Education, which will never diminish.” I still remember this sentence my sobbing mother conveyed to me, a month after my grandfathers death. True to her words, my late grandfather was one of the zealous exponents of education not only for his children but also for the children in his neighborhood and wherever he went. And the vindication of my mother’s message is evident that all the children of my grandfather are well educated and financially independent. Especially his daughters, all of whom are well educated and in service, and the legacy they have carried forward among their children as well. My mother is and most probably will be the most educated and qualified person in our family (be it amongst male or female members), from either my paternal or maternal lineage. She was the second topper in the division in her matriculation as well as in the University during her graduation. With double post graduation and doctorate degrees (Ph.D) to add to it, I am quite sure, no-one presently in my family has the acumen to match her qualification. My parent have played their part, with my sister having completed her engineering degree and double post graduation with an MBA, and is happily married and has a regular job. This is an account of education of a Muslim family. My mother owes all her achievements to her father, who fought all odds, from financial crunch in initial years to opposition from family, my grandmother included; to guide my mother to achieve the improbable maybe 40 years back. And as I picked up the newspaper today, one of the articles caught my eyes, ‘Extremists in Northern Pakistan destroying and burning Girl’s schools, and have smoldered over 100 of them. They declared it’s un-Islamic for girls to be educated, and they are only following Islamic decree of preventing Muslim girls to be equated with men.’ “How gibberish!” was my instant proclamation; the legacy of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), who was accompanied by such learned women as Aisha Siddiqa’ and Fatima (RA) was being wasted in such a form.

Education among Muslims and more so for females has been one of the most contentious issues. While people perceive that it’s the religion, which binds Muslims women against seeking education and equality with men, which is the most blatant myth. Islam has always regarded education as one of the highest virtues and seeking education is a fundamental duty upon every Muslim. In fact well established Hadiths say, “It is Farz (obligatory) upon every Muslim to seek Knowledge”. In his time Prophet Muhammad (SAW) laid special emphasis to propagate equality amongst men and women in all respects, allowing women to pray in mosques as well as it is mentioned in one of the Hadiths that he kept a special day in the week to answer queries by womenfolk, when they complained that the men were talking to him most of the time. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) has said, “If a man has a girl child and he educated her, took best possible care for her and gave her away in marriage, then he will be rewarded twice”. Interpreting the same, we can surely say that twice the reward should be in comparison for taking care of the male child. This highlights, that Islam clearly gives precedence to women’s education, even above the males. And verily, the reasons for the same was told by our erstwhile Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru that, ‘If you educate a male you educate an individual, but if you educate a female you educate the whole family’. No astonishment that Islam had perceived this 1400 years back.

History of Islam has seen some of the most learned women, with Aisha Siddiqa (RA), wife of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) regarded as ‘Mother of the Faithful’ leading the contribution. She was perhaps the first female Mufti in Islam, as she was the closest companions of The Prophet (SAW) during his later years and perhaps was the most beneficent of his knowledge and teachings. It is evident from her contribution to the Hadiths, which talk about Life and Philosophy of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Scholars regard her (in status) amongst the likes of Abu Bakr, Usmaan, Umar, Abu Hurairah and Hazrat Ali (RA) some of the most devout Sahabi’s (followers/companions) of The Prophet (SAW). Another mention of most prominent woman in spreading equality and knowledge for women and helping the cause of Islam in its heydays was Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) daughter Fatima (RA) – ‘Leader of Women in Heaven’. Not only was she the most adorable amongst Prophet’s (SAW) children, but she was the one with whom he shared most of his learning’s from the Quranic revelations. Khadija (RA), Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) first wife, was also a very learned women and one of the first to accept the faith of Islam. She was the one to provide all the support and assurance to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) during his initial years of prophecy and when the Quran was revealed upon him.

The Indian history has seen some of the most influential and learned Muslim women, who by their wisdom and valor, etched a name in golden letters. Razia Sultan (1205-1240 AD) the successor of her father Iltutmish, was chosen above her brothers as the heir apparent for the throne for her interest in administration and learning warfare. While history remembers her for her affair with a slave, her achievements as a ruler are nevertheless remarkable. She propagated equality amongst all religion and established schools, academies, centers for research, and public libraries that included the works of ancient philosophers along with the Holy Quran and the Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Hindu works in the sciences, philosophy, astronomy, and literature were reportedly studied in schools and colleges. Another example is that of Nurjahan (1577-1645 AD) also known as Mehrunnissa , wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who was the brain behind her husband’s just and virtuous rule, continuing the legacy of Akbar. She remains historically significant for the sheer amount of imperial authority she wielded - the true "power behind the throne," and is known as one of the most powerful women who ruled India. Chand Bibi (1550-1599 AD) is best known for defending Ahmadnagar against the Mughal forces of Emperor Akbar. Begum Hazrat Mahal was endowed with great physical charm and grace as well as organizational skills. During India’s First War of independence (1857-58), she led her supporters against the British, and was even able to seize the control of Lucknow.

Journeying back to the present times, we see the two facets of the society, at one end the extremists and self protagonists of the religion are presenting forth their own decree upon their people wrongly interpreting the teachings of Quran and implicating all possible persecutions to subdue the women. While on the other hand we have women like Noble Prize winner Shirin Ebadi and Later Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto, who set an example for the Muslim women, to come forward and establish themselves on the world forum, creating their individual identity. Women like Najma Heptulla and Mehbooba Mufti are well known in the Indian Political quarters. We have the example of Iram Khan, third topper in Pune Division, class 10th examination 2008, with 95.69%; who fought odds against poverty and social bindings to achieve accolades. Surprisingly it was her grandmothers unwavering support, when she convinced her family to continue her education after middle school. The girl repaid the faith her grandmother put in her, studying in a one room house, she shared with five other family members and in a noisy surrounding. Her efforts are without any tuitions or coaching classes apart from the school. Back home I still remember how my grandfather had a hard time convincing an auto rickshaw driver who lived in the vicinity, to let his daughter continue her studies after her matriculation. The adamant father finally agreed and the meticulous daughter later completed her engineering degree with first division and got a job in a multinational software firm. Her achievements motivated her siblings for higher studies as well. Years later her father died in an accident, and though the family was grieved but they were financially sound thanks to the same girl, who was now supporting the whole family. My grandfather used to say, evidencing the rickshaw drivers daughter’s case, “That Is my most valuable Certificate for all my achievements in life.”

Shab-e-Meraj ~ The Night of Ascension

27th Rajjab

In the Surah al-Isra (Qur'an 17:1), it is mentioned: “Glory be to Him! Who made His messenger (Prophet Muhammad) to go on a night from the Sacred Mosque (Holy Kaaba) to the Farthest Mosque (Masjid-e-Aqsa) of which We have blessed the precincts, so that We may show to him some of Our signs; surely He is the Hearing, the Seeing.

The event in the Islamic calendar being glorified by Allah himself in the Holy Quran is the Night of Ascension or the Shab-e-Meraj. It is marked as one of the golden annals in the growth of the religion of Islam as well as establishing the prominence of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as the Prophet of the prophets. The night of 27th Rajjab of the Islamic calendar, when in an instance of that night Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was ascended to the heavens across the veils of skies and other holy places by angel Jibraeel at the insistence of Allah. It is said that the whole episode was over in the time it takes for a swinging chain (or pendulum) to return to its mean position from its extreme angle. While many others believe that the entire universe stood still from the time when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was wakened up by Jibraeel till he was brought back after traversing the entire creations of Almighty Allah across the skies. The apprehensions of many people doubting this event was clarified by the greatest Islamic scholar Imam Ahmad Raza said in the following verse, “Wo na the to kuch naa tha, Wo na ho to kuch na ho; Jaan hai wo jahan ki, Jaan hai to Jahan hai”. Speaking of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) he said, “When he wasn’t there, there was Nothing, If he isn’t there, there will be Nothing. He is the soul of the entire creations of Allah, and as long as the soul (Prophet Muhammad SAW) is there, the universe will be there.”

Expounding more upon this can be vouched at the instance when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was ascending during Meraj along with Jibraeel. He asked the Leader of the Malaekeen (Angels), “Jibraeel! What is your age?”, to which the holy angel replied, “O Prophet (SAW), I have never kept track of my age, but since the time I was brought into existence by Allah, I have seen a very bright source of light, at the horizons of the Heaven, which comes into existence once in 70,000 years. And I have seen that light 70,000 times in my life. So that will be my age.” The Prophet (SAW) smiled back at him and asked, “Jibraeel, do you know what is that source of light?” The innocent angel replied in negative. “I am that light, it is my soul” said Prophet Muhammad (SAW), “That light is the very first creation of Allah. Had it not been created, nothing would have come into existence. The entire universe, the earth, the life-forms, the angels and all the prophets; they all owe their existence to that source of light, which is my soul.”

Those who doubt the authenticity of the event of Meraj and that it happened in reality when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) made the eventful journey to meet Allah in person and not in his dreams and that the whole episode was over in an instance, can be said that, it is a similar concept of a body and the soul. The body functions as long as the soul is there. Take the case of a watch, and let’s treat it as a body and the cell which runs the watch will be its soul. When you take out the cell from the watch, it stops functioning and its needles come to a standstill there and then. Now if you replace the cell back to its position, after 5 minutes or 5 hours or 5,000 years, the watch (unless tampered or destroyed) will resume its functioning from the instance when its cell was removed. The same was the case on the night of Meraj. The soul of the universe and all life-forms that is Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was called upon by Allah; and as he was raised to the heavens, the whole world came to a standstill. And all the while when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was paying visit to Allah and his creations, the world lay life-less, only to be revived upon his return. So who are we as mere mortal, to doubt the genuineness of Shab-e-Meraj? People have reservations believing the ascension of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) above the skies and his presence forth Allah, in person, but Imam Ahmad Raza said in one of his countless books, “Mankind has wondered, how can Prophet Muhammad (SAW), be raised in person to the heavens in an instance, I have been wondering how the beloved soul and Prophet of Allah spend 63 years of his life on the earth amongst the sinners? His rank is too high and so close is he to Allah that it’s a sin to call him as one amongst ourselves.”

The night of Meraj was a gift of Allah to his Prophet and his followers, for what he returned with was immense knowledge of Allah’s creations and a way of worshipping our Almighty in the form of Namaz. The Prophet was carried upon Burraq, the legendary creature, which took him to places like Tayibbah (Madina), Mount Sinai – the place where Prophet Musa (AS) spoke to Allah, Bethlehem (birth place of Prophet Isa - Jesus) and then to Baitul Muqaddas (Jerusalem) where Masjid-e-Aqsa is situated. (The illustrations of these places can be viewed at - http://www.ezsoftech.com/ebooks/Meraj.pdf ). At each of these places Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Jibraeel performed Namaz with the head of angels providing insight to the importance of these places. That he was informed about Madina by Jibraeel, it clearly tells us that Shab-e-Meraj happened before Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) Hijrat or journey from Makkah to Madina with his followers. There is a reason to this timing as well; it is said that before the night of Meraj, the intolerance of the tribe of Quraish towards Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his teachings on Islam had grown to its extremes and he was now being physically harassed by the barbarians. It was on one of those days he was walking towards his house, when he was showered by stones and sticks, by them and his feet started bleeding and his footwear was drenched in blood. As he sat down in sadness owing to the agony and distress caused upon him, Allah almighty decided to give his beloved Prophet, what we can decipher as a ‘break’. This is similar in the way we go for a vacations after long hectic days of work. Allah Almighty took all the care to provide his Prophet the best of the comfort and knowledge during Meraj, thus asking Jibraeel to accompany him and making Burraq available for him as a mode of transport.

It was in Masjid-e-Aqsa, where all the prophets of the past right from Prophet Adam (AS), Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to Prophet Musa and Isa (AS) and all the approximately 124,000 prophets paid salutations and reverence to Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Here too they all congregated to offer Namaz and stood in rows, when Jibraeel very politely requested Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to lead the prayers as the Imam of all prophets. This event enlightens us of the position held by our Prophet (SAW) amongst all other prophets of Allah. Some scholars however claim that the other prophets met Prophet Muhammad (SAW) at various levels in the skies, with Prophet Ibrahim (AS) meeting him at the last of the levels. And it was at this place wherein Prophet Muhammad (SAW) led the congregation to offer the Namaz.

After the visit to the places in the world, it was now time for ascension for Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to witness Allah’s aura and get all the knowledge of his creations. It was not that The Prophet (SAW) did not have information about Allah’s creation and he just assimilated all that was told to him by Jibraeel, but it was similar to a case where even a most learned historian calmly listens to a tourist guide while visiting a monument. And concerning Allah’s presence, why would his most beloved Prophet not ask all that which he has knowledge about, just to hear his Lord, his Creator speak, and let his words and voice fall upon his ears, which would have been a blessing in itself for even the Prophet of the prophets. Traveling across the skies, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and Jibraeel reached a place called as Sidr-tal-Muntaha; a location above all skies, which is marked by a Berry Tree. Here upon Jibraeel paused in his stride and would not move an inch further, he stood beside the tree and said, “O Prophet (SAW), I have reached my limits and I cannot go further beyond this point, as the charisma of Almighty Allah will burn my wings. This is the place where I have access up to and I attend to Allah commands from here only. You will have to travel alone further.”

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) knew that from herein starts the precinct where none of Allah creation has ever walked upon or seen. He prepared to move forward and out of deference, as he was removing his footwear before entering, Allah’s voice emanated from the surrounding, “Beloved Muhammad (SAW), you do not need to remove your footwear, to walk into my audience. Please come in.” This again tells us the respect and admiration showered upon by none other than Allah himself on Prophet Muhammad (SAW). And the narration of the journey further on as described by Prophet himself, has been described beautifully in his various Hadith’s. It was Prophet Musa (SAW) who for years had begged and pleaded to see a just a flash or glimpse of the Lord’s profile, which blinded him for the moment and burnt Mount Sinai, and here we see Allah himself inviting Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and asking him to not even remove his footwear. He saw Allah Almighty with his own eyes and in person, and when Allah touched upon his shoulders, the Prophet (SAW) felt as if the entire knowledge of the Universe was getting incorporated in his heart. He was shown the Heavens (Jannat) and the Hell (Jahannam), and what the believers and truthful followers of the Prophet would be showered upon in Heavens as well as what tortures and punishment lay in store for the sinners in the Hell.

He came back with the beautiful legacy of Namaz, which was provided by Allah upon the followers of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as a means to remember him and ask for his forgiveness as well as seek Allah’s blessings. Jibraeel took all the care to help Prophet Muhammad (SAW) come back to his abode on the earth, a thing which no other living soul had ever done nor will be able to do till perpetuity. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) resumed his message for Islam and Allah’s lordship to the masses with all the learning he acquired during the night of Meraj.

The importance of Shab-e-Meraj holds high prominence amongst Muslims and commences what is described as the preparation for the holy months of Shaban and Ramzan, which follows the months of Rajjab. The other two nights of prayer are Shab-e-Barat and Shab-e-Qadr, which fall in the following two months. Muslims across the globe are advised to pray as much as possible during the night of Meraj and recite Quran and remember Allah and his messenger Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The blessings showered upon all those who spend major part of Shab-e-Meraj in prayers are immense and keeping a fast on the following day is also beneficial both physically and spiritually. Rajjab, the 7th month of Islamic calendar is regarded as Allah’s month and is the month of seeking forgiveness (Istighfar) and distributing charity in form of Sadqah. And as Allah says in the Holy Quran, it offers a great opportunity for the Muslims to cleanse themselves of all their sins.

Wa bil Walidain e' Ehsaana

Treat your Parents with Utmost Compassion

A mother once brought her young child to a great Imam of that time, requesting him to counsel the kid to refrain from eating too much sweet as it was harming his teeth and gums. The Imam asked the mother to come back after a month. A month later when the duo arrived in the presence of the Imam, he took the child to his side, and calmly asked him not to eat too much sweets and told him some of its ill effects. The mother wondered and inquired the Imam that he could have advised these things earlier also, why asked her to wait one month for just saying a few words of wisdom. To this the Imam replied that, a month ago he too was addicted to eating sweets, and didn’t thought it appropriate to preach what he practiced not, hence asked them to wait for a month during which time he eschewed all his vices of eating sweets.

On similar notes, for many years I contemplated writing something on Respect to Parents and duties of children towards their parents. But every time a voice inside my heart would ask me, are you practicing what you would eventually write? And I would recall all the smallest of the incidents in immediate past and present, wherein I disobeyed or disrespected my parents, only to repent later silently. I do admit I haven’t yet achieved the zeniths of veneration for my parents but I am on course to achieve it to the fullest possible extent.

In between the second Sunday of May and third Sunday of June, gave me time to think are we bounded by special days as Mothers Day and Fathers Day to remember, respect and show gratitude to our parents? Why does Islam say that every day of our Life should be a Parents Day? The answer lies in the way Allah almighty has decreed upon the status unto your parents immediately after he mentions about himself, not once but as many as 11-15 times in the Holy Qur’an. Allah Says. “And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as] 'uff' [i.e., an expression of irritation or disapproval] and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word. And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say: 'My Lord! Have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.” [Quran 17:23-24]

The statement is as strong the words can be, directing the children to care for their parents, when it says you shouldn’t say even an expression of ‘uff’. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, the Jannat (Heaven) lies under the feet of a mother, and parents are your doors to Heaven. Once a man came to Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and asked who amongst his relatives had more right on him or who commanded greatest respect of an individual, to which The Prophet replied, “Your Mother”, after that, “Your Mother”, after that, “Your Mother” and after that, “Your Father”, thus indicating that a mother holds as much as three times right and holds respect over her children, than the father. The reason is because it is she who nurtures the child for 9 months in her womb bearing al the pains and travails of pregnancy. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) once said to followers, your entire life’s dedicated with full time service and obedience and respect to your mother you cannot repay even a second for the moment she had you in her womb during her pregnancy. Thus clarifying that you can never ever repay for the efforts your mother took to bring you in this world.

Allah has said in Qur’an, that a person who finds one or both parents in their old age and does not take proper care for them, is the biggest loser and will never ever enter Jannat, because parents are the doors for a person’s path to Jannat. Narrating an incident on similar lines Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, ‘A man once on his deathbed was writhing in pain, as he was suffering from a grave disease. The situation was so appalling that neither he would come out of it nor his soul would leave his body, so as to relieve him of the agony and distress. People started enquiring about his past and came to know that he was a very pious and honest person in his life, took good care of his children, educated them, gave away charity regularly, was a devote Namazi 5 times a day and had even performed Hajj. They were puzzled as to how such a person could face such austerity at the time of his death. When someone came to know that his mother still lived in the outskirts of the city, and thought it appropriate to call her and help pray for her son’s painless death. However the mother was unrelenting, when people sought her help. She plainly declined to help or pray for her son, as he used to abuse her verbally and physically, when she became old and drove her out of their house on insistence of his wife. People realized that it was the curse of her mother that was the cause for the hardships the man was suffering. They pleaded her and finally laid down the man in front of her house. The stubborn mother tried ignoring, for sometime but her motherly heart finally melted hearing the man’s anguish. She came running out of her house and embraced her son, showering upon him the best of affection and cuddled him in her arms. The surprised man was finally able to move his lips and begged for her mercy and was able to say the Shahada. Immediately his soul left his body and he was relieved of all the pain and agony.’

Prophet Muhammad thus pointed out that no person would ever have a peaceful life or a painless death, as long he earns the wrath of his parents. And on the other hand it is the heart of a mother who would forget all the ill treatment meted out to her by her children and not bear to see them in anguish. One such story which most of us might have heard in our childhood holds stead for this case. ‘A man once lived with his widowed mother and wife. He was always derided by his wife that he loved his mother more than her. She would scold him and threaten to leave him if he did not get rid of the old lady. His mother on the other hand was happy and content in the way she was treated by them. She would ignore all the abuses and ill treatment meted to her by her daughter-in-law and sometimes even by her son, who was blinded by the love for his wife. The old lady would spend most of her time in prayers and would always respond back to them with a smile, which would annoy the man’s wife even more. Unable to stand her presence in the house, one day she thought of testing her husbands love for her. “Would you do anything for me, as you always say”, “Yes, anything, whatever you say” replied back the insane man. “Then bring me your mothers heart in a plate, tonight”, she declared after seeking his swear. Though he felt the anguish that he would feel by killing his old mother, he did not relent. The foolish and indiscreet man he was, he killed the pious mother that night in her sleep, cut open her bosom and took her heart out. As he was carrying the heart to her lady love, he tripped on the way over a stone and fell down, bruising himself. Out came a concerned voice from the mother’s heart lying on the ground, “Son! Did you hurt yourself?” So agonized he was over his act, but alas, he couldn’t repent.’

All these incidents tell us how high the reverence of parents should be in our lives, and how much distress and troubles we cause unto them, their care, concern and love for us would never subside. A man once asked Prophet Muhammad (SAW), what the difference was between parents caring for their children when young and the children in return taking care of their parents, when they are old. “Immense and Incomparable” said The Prophet (SAW) “When you are a small and helpless toddler, your parents take care of you, seeing you grow up and taking pleasure in each and every act. Every passing day is a delightful chapter not just for you but for them as well. They soak the happiness in the development of the tree they are nurturing in form of you, as an asset. However when a son takes care of his parents in their old age, he does so out of a feeling of mercy and favor. He always thinks of them as a liability upon him and feels they are helpless. A person taking care of his parents in old age sees their death as the end of his efforts, but the parents taking care of their children see the whole life and success of their wards as the end of their effort, which however never ceases, even when they become old and helpless” a clear interpretation that the two things can never be equated. Islam lays down clear guidelines on the duties of the children towards their parents and how they should obey and respect them. Allah has equated disrespect and not caring for old parents amongst the greatest of discontent in Islam. Once while climbing upon the steps of the Mimbar (Place in Masjid from where the sermon and Khutbaa is delivered), Prophet Muhammad (SAW) among three other things also said, ‘Disgraced will be that person, who finds one or both his parents in old age and does not enter paradise.’ This is because Islam has indicated that Paradise lies under the feet of your mother, and your father is the door through which you would enter the heaven.

Allah has said one look of disrespect or annoyance towards your parents, could wipe your years of prayers and good deeds, however devout you might be. In the same context one glance of deep reverence with a smile on your face for your parents, could please Allah so much so as to wipe out all your sins and pave the way for your entry in Jannat. Speaking of obedience, this incident narrates how respect for parents can reap rich rewards. Three people while traveling in ancient Arabia were caught in between a furious storm and sought shelter under small cave along way. However rains and mudslides closed the mouth of the cave with a huge stone. The three travelers were trapped in the eerie darkness without food and water and depleting supply of air. All their efforts to push open the blockage went in vain. Tired they turned to Allah and prayed for help, when one of them suggested relating one act of greatness each of the three had done in past, which would please the Almighty. The first one remembered how he had donated pounds of gold towards building a huge Masjid in his town and an orphanage, and immediately the stone at the entrance moved, but just showing a small crevice. The second one remembered how once he kept fast for 60 days and prayed day and night to please Allah. Upon this the stone again moved but only by a few inches. Then the third person related an incident when once his mother woke up in the middle of the night feeling hungry and he broke his sleep to answer to her mothers call. But when he went back to her with a glass of milk, she was asleep again, so he stood there patiently waiting upon her mother, to wake up, but didn’t thought it appropriate to arouse her or go back without attending her in person. He had not just finished with his deed, when with a loud sound the stone moved again, but this time opening the mouth completely, to let out the distraught travelers.

Allah has regarded respect to parents immediately after his worships, thus holding its reverence over and above any other good deed. None of your prayers, pilgrimage, charity and help will materialize unless you have the blessings and acceptance of your parents. Allah has said he who earns the wrath and insolence of his parents will never be pardoned and never come even near to the scent of Jannat. On the eve of Battle of Badr, when Muslims were enrolling themselves to fight for Islam, a young man came forth Prophet Muhammad (SAW) seeking his permission to fight for Allah’s cause. The Prophet (SAW) enquired if both or either of his parents was alive, to which he replied that his mother is with him. The Prophet (SAW) again enquired, if he had any other sibling or close relative who would take care of his mother in his absence or if he were to die in the battle. The young man responded in negative and said that he was the sole dependent for his mother. The Prophet (SAW) then counseled him, “Go back to your mother and take proper care of her. See to it that she faces no troubles and do not give her a cause of agony, as long as she is alive, and even after her death pray for her and give charity in her name. This will be more rewarding for you than being martyred in the battle for Allah’s cause. Caring and respect for your parents is the greatest Jehad you can perform in Islam.”

Islam directs its followers to care for their parents not only when they are alive but also when they are no longer with you. A man once asked Prophet Muhammad (SAW) how he can care for his parents as both of them were now dead. To which he was advised to visit their grave regularly, pray for them, remember them in his prayers and seek Allah’s blessings for them as long as they are in their graves and for the Day of Judgment. Also distribute charity in their names, and attribute as much as goodness he can do unto others in their name for their benefit. In another case Prophet Muhammad (SAW) advised that under no circumstance should a person rebuke or look upon his parents with impertinence, even if his father is a drunkard, even if they belong to other religion, even if they do not treat him well or even if they do not do justice amongst the siblings. It is upon Allah to punish or guide them through their transgression and not the children. Instead they should try their best to advocate them and make them see what’s right, but with utmost respect and entreats, not by ordering or forceful ways.

The beautiful religion that Islam is it holds Respect for Parents amongst the highest virtues. It guides its followers to pay tribute for the travails and adversity a mother faces in giving birth and a father toils to bring up a child to make him a good human being. Islam makes us to comprehend the fact that life is a vicious cycle and we as parents might have to face the same situation before our children as we would offer to our parents. Who can forget the story of the perturbed pleas of the woman who was ready to give her only child to other woman, than see King Solomon cut it into two.

The Oceans of the Earth would drain, but a Mothers Heart would still beg for more Compassion

Namaz ~ A beautiful Legacy of The Prophet

(Namaz as Exercise and its Other Benefits)

Namaz (or Salat in Arabic) is one of the strongest of the 5 pillars of Islam. Allah has mentioned the benefits and importance of Namaz as many as 67 times in the Holy Qur’an. Apart from the spiritual benefits that Namaz offers to the Muslim worshippers, it is also one of the best forms of exercise that one can have on a regular basis daily and 5 times a day. These prayers for muslim are ordered to be compulsorily performed 5 times at various designated times of the day. Many questions arises in the mind of a person who wants to offer namaz for the first time that "What are prayers?" or "how to pray?" or "when to pray?". Below is answer to these questions about prayers. The five times for namaz are:

Fajr : Early morning just before sunrise. It comprises 4 Rakats.
Zuhar: Afternoon paryers post the period of Zawaal (when sun is perpendicular to earth). It comprises 12 Rakats.
Asar: Post afternoon and before Sunset. It comprises 8 Rakats.
Maghrib: Just after Sunset. It comprises 7 Rakats.
Ishaa: Late evening after the Sunset is complete and darkness of the night is complete and the cooling effect of the atmosphere begins. It comprises 17 Rakats

The various times for namaz in a day and the number of Rakats hold specific meaning and the benefits derived out of it. A Rakat is one complete cycle of Standing, Bending, Prostrations and subsequent Sitting or Standing up again in the Namaz. Each posture of the Namaz has a standard defined procedure and recitations that is observed by every Muslim irrespective of where he is residing and to what race he belongs. We follow the methods as taught to us by Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

There is a specific way and various postures in which Namaz has to be performed as guided by Prophet Muhammad (SAW). It is said that earlier times it was compulsorily 50 times in a day when Namaz had to be performed by an individual. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on the night of Meraj or Shab-e-Meraj or night of prayer ascended to the heavens and requested Allah to reduce the number of times the Namaz to be performed by the Muslims. This was done by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on advice from all the Prophets earlier to him on the way to heaven. Every time he requested Allah, 5 Namaz’ would be reduced when finally it was fixed to 5 times a day. However as he was returning, Prophet Musa insisted that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) request Allah to reduce the Namaz’ further as he had a bitter experience of his followers not obeying and praying to Almighty as commanded. But Prophet Muhammad (SAW) relented this time, saying that he had immense faith in his followers (Muslims) to submit to the authority of Allah in obedience at least 5 times a day. And the legacy of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is carried on in its original form and as directed by The Prophet (SAW) for the past over 1400 years. The various postures of Namaz, their representation and physical benefits can be seen at http://chishti.org/posture_1.htm

The benefits of Namaz are immense, and this can be proved by the innumerable benefits offered by only one action in a Namaz, which is the prostration or the Sajda. A worshipper keeps his forehead touched on the ground along with four other parts of the body which makes his Sujood acceptable; these are the touching of the soft bone of the nose, the palms of our hands pressed on the floor with fingers facing the Kaba, the knees on which we rest our body and the toes of our feet bent and pressed on the ground pointing towards the Kaba. We all have been told that this posture increases fresh supply of blood to our brain, which is but only one of the many benefits of Sajda. Scientific observations give the other following gains from it. The latest results are of a scientific study by Dr. Mohamed Diaa El Deen Hamed, Professor of Biological Sciences and Head of Food Radiation Department in Radiation Technology Center. If you are suffering from exhaustion or tension or permanent headache or nervousness and if you are afraid of tumors, so all you have to do is Sujood (plural of Sajda). Sujood frees you from your psychological and nerves illnesses. It is a common knowledge that a human being is exposed to extra waves of radiation and lives, in most cases, in the middle of electromagnetic fields which affects the cells and increase energy. So, as stated by Dr. Diaa, Sujood frees the body from the extra waves that cause many diseases. Any increase in the electromagnetic waves to which the body is exposed, causes disruption in the cells and consequently the human being is infected by what is called the diseases of the era; such as headaches, muscles pain, neck pain, exhaustion in addition to forgetting things and non concentration. This matter gets worse if the waves are too much and being blocked in the body. In that case, it causes cancer tumors and distortion of fetuses. We have to get rid of these waves out of the body without taking medicines and tranquilizers and their bad side effects. The Solution lies in prostration. There has to be an earthling's connection to free these extra waves and this is to be done by Sujood to Allah Almighty, as we are ordered. This process is done by connecting the forehead to the floor. In Sujood, the negative waves move from the body to the floor which is a negative pole. Consequently, the emptying process happens specially if you done the Sujood by your seven members (forehead, nose, hands, knees and feet). The studies showed that, in order to empty the waves, you have to face the geographical center of the earth, which is scientifically proven to be Mecca. That is what we are all doing in our prayer (facing the Qibla or Kaba). The studies revealed that Mecca is the best direction to free these waves because of facing the centre of the Earth which is effective in freeing the human being from his grieves to feel peacefulness afterwards

Another important observance is the increase in our prayers and additional Namaz or the Taraweeh which is prayed during the month of Ramzan. While we had all these years believed that these additional 20 Rakats were for our spiritual self and gaining manifold the blessings of Allah in the Holy month of Ramzan and from our hearing of the entire Qur’an in the process, which is true, but is also associated with immense medical benefits, about which we had but little knowledge:
· - Muslims observe fasts during Ramzan, which is broken at sunset during Iftaar. We tend to eat high calorie foods in Iftaar to compensate for the lack of food and water for the entire day. As a result the blood sugar level continues to rise from the food ingested. Just before the Iftaar meals, the blood glucose and insulin levels are at their lowest level. After an hour or so after the Iftar meal, the blood glucose begins to rise and also plasma insulin. The liver and the muscles take up the circulating glucose. The blood sugar reaches high levels in an hour or two and the benefits of prayers of Taraweeh come into effect. The circulating glucose is metabolized into carbon dioxide and water during the exercise and the accompanying blood circulation during prayers of Taraweeh. They help in expanding the extra calories and improve flexibility, coordination, reduce stress-related autonomic responses in healthy persons, and relieve anxiety and depression.

Overall the benefits of these islamic prayers are insurmountable as it improves physical fitness, emotional well-being and increase the longevity of the Namazi resulting in betterment in the endurance, stamina, flexibility and strength. It was noted that the five daily prayers produce the same physiological changes without any undesirable side effects as those produced by jogging or walking at about three miles daily. Another major benefit is the prevention of Osteoporosis (weakening of bones and reduction in bone density among the elderly and post-menopausal women). Performing Namaz helps repeated and regular movements of the body, due to which the muscle strength, tendon power, joint, flexibility and the cardiovascular reserve are improved, reducing the chances of Osteoporosis. The repeated movement of joints involves proper circulation of blood and improved lubrication in the joints, thus preventing early onset of Arthritis.

Namaz involves movement and contraction of every muscle of the body in a gentle way, which enhances endurance and diminishes tiredness thus preventing Muscular Atrophy as it increases blood flow in them. Namaz involves increase in Systolic Blood Pressure while reducing the Diastolic Blood Pressure, which improves respiratory efficiency and deep breathing with maximum utilization of Oxygen by the capillaries surrounding the alveoli in the lungs. The overall result is a refreshing feeling by the individual. The benefits are uncountable to be summarized in one article; more of these can be read in details at: http://www.crescentlife.com/spirituality/medical_benefits_of_tarawih.htm

Praying Namaz requires one to be clean in all respects, be it’s the physical self, the surroundings or the intent. No matter how hard a person prays or for how long he lies in prostration (Sajda), unless his intention are clean and motives selfless, the Namaz will not be accepted by Allah. It is required that a person ensures the surrounding is clean and free from sins where he intends to offer Namaz. The Prophet (SAW) advised that except for the washroom or where one relieves himself and the Kabrastan or the graveyard, Allah has made the whole world as a place of worship for his believers. For men, it is advisable to pray in a Masjid in congregation behind an Imam, as it is 27 times more rewarding than praying alone at home, but for women it is equally rewarding whether she prays alone within the confines of her home or in a congregation in a Masjid. The distinction does not signify that Islam discriminates men from women, as during the times of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), men and women would pray inside a same Masjid in separate lines or separate areas marked specifically for women, behind one Imam, and it is practiced even today in many Masjid's around the world the Haram Sharif or the Kaba and Masjid-e-Nabvi included. Read more details on Women in Mosques in: http://fardinq.blogspot.com/2008/01/sania-mirza-unforced-errors.html

One should ensure before praying that the surroundings are clean and also advisable to lay out a clean piece of cloth called the Jahnamaz or Musalla, on which to pray than on bare ground. Another important requirement in preparation for Namaz is the Wazu or the ablutions which requires one to clean his mouth, nose face, hands, head, neck and feet with running water to purify oneself physically. Running water does not mean wasting of water with taps opened as is observed amongst most of us, but to use a minimum and sufficient amount so as to thoroughly clean the afore mentioned parts. The Prophet has even said that in absence of water one can use air and carry out the actions as normally done in Wazu using water to perform the ablutions or use a clean cloth to wipe ourselves to carry out the Wazu as it was observed for the travelers in the desert in parts of Arabia who did not have enough water.

Namaz is basically to purify oneself, seek forgiveness for the sins we commit intentionally and unintentionally, and pledge not to repeat it. It teaches one to have his feet on the ground and submit to will of the Almighty, before whom all are helpless. Namaz makes us compassionate and believe in the equality of mankind. It gives a message that when the Jamaat (congregation) stands before Allah for observing Namaz, there is no distinction between the prince and the pauper. All will stand alongside each other and pray in a similar way and recite the same verses from the same Holy Qur’an. Namaz makes us disciplined and brings feeling of regularity and gives a direction to our daily life, 5 times a day, if we make it a routine to get up on hearing the Azaan, do the Wazu (ablutions) and head for prayers, either in a congregation or alone, we feel a sense of Time Management in our daily chores. I had this personal experience when during our childhood we would religiously pray the Namaz-e-Maghrib regularly, although we skipped the Namaz-e-Asar. The Asar Azaan marks the beginning of evening and cooling of the environment, and that would mean we could go out to play. The Maghrib Namaz begins immediately after the sunset, and as kids we would go out in the playgrounds in evening and the Azaan for Maghrib prayers would be a call to end our games and head towards home. As in the case of other children, there was no need for my mother to shout at the top of her voice from the house asking us to head back home as it would be getting dark soon. The correcting tone of the microphone by the Muazzin from the nearby Masjid for Azaan would be enough indication for us to wind up. It meant a distinction between the Playtime and Study time interspersed with a few minutes for Allah. The same is the case for other times of Namaz as well for those regular Namazi who prays 5 times without fail. I would recall another incident, where a non-Muslim friend of mine said the Azaan for the Namaz-e-Fajr was like an alarm clock for his mother who would begin her day, hearing the Azaan, even before the rooster had opened his eyes to justify the nursery rhymes associated with it. Similarly there are innumerable examples of how to pray Namaz brings discipline in our lives.

A research study conducted by Mohammed Faruque Reza, Yuji Urakami and Yukio Mano, concluded that Namaz or Salat has immense benefits providing for psychological, musculoskeletal and cerebral improvements and also as an aid for rehabilitation as physiotherapy resulting in long term health benefits affecting the brain, heart and the body apart from its spiritual benefits. The benefits are irrespective of age, gender and ability of an individual. Read the full report: http://www.kfshrc.edu.sa/annals/223_224/01-185.pdf

Muharram: Beginiing of Islamic New Year

( The Battle of Karbala & Significance of Yaum-e-Ashura )

1-1-1429; I am not referring to any eventful date in annuls of History but the day is today, 10th January 2008 AD or 1st Muharram 1429 AH (after Hijri); the beginning of the Islamic New Year. Muharram is the 1st month of Hijri calendar which is held in high significance among Muslims for varied reasons. Muharram is renowned for ‘Yaum-e-Ashura’ on the 10th day of this month when the eventful Battle of Karbala took place in 61AH. It marks the remembrance of the sacrifice of Imam Hussein, whence he chose death over acquiescence before the tyrants, to uphold the values of Islam. The Islamic calendar ends with the month of sacrifice (Zul Hijj;
http://fardinq.blogspot.com/2007_12_01_archive.html#4776344024214767109) as well as starts with the month of sacrifice (Muharram) thus epitomizing among the people that it is sacrifice which enthrall the faith of Muslims. Many of us believe that celebrating New Year on 1st Muharram is forbidden in Islam, however the month and Yaum-e-Ashura in particular is of great significance. Muharram which means ‘forbidden’ in Arabic is a month when it is forbidden to wage a fight or war or cause distress to others. The month is also regarded as the one to pay high reverence to one’s parents by being thoroughly obedient and subservient to them if both or either of them is alive. And to pay tributes to those who are dead by reciting the Holy Qur’an and visiting their graves and feeding the poor and giving charity in their name, for their benefit. While many of us party late into nights on the eve of Gregorian New Year and vow resolutions only to be unkempt. The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of another year to bring forth amongst its followers the virtues of good deeds and sacrifice to reap rich rewards in this world and hereafter from Allah.

Historically the month is marked by the beginning of Hijri Calendar, when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) began his journey from Mecca to the city of Medina, when the people of Mecca had conspired against him and opposed his teachings of Islam. However he was openly welcomed by the residents of Medina, which formed the base for the proliferation of the religion of Islam. Some scholars however propose that it was the third month of Hijri calendar (Rabi-ul-Awwal) when he moved to Medina. It was his ‘Hijrat’ meaning journey or migration from Mecca to Medina that the name Hijri was coined for the Islamic Lunar calendar.

Yaum-e-Ashura meaning the ‘10th day’ of Muharram has a marked significance for the Battle of Karbala. As well as it was on this day that Prophet Musa (AS) moved with his followers from Egypt to the promised land of Jerusalem, freeing them from the clutches of the Pharaoh, who had persecuted the Israelis for years. Prophet Musa guided the followers making way through the Red Sea, and when the Pharaoh and his army pursued them, the sea closed upon killing them all. The Jews then settled in Jerusalem under the commandments of Allah guided by Prophet Musa (AS). However what followed was a long period of betrayal and impiety from them in response to the faith reposed in them by Musa and their subsequent punishment at the hands of Allah. The rest we all know is history which resulted in the beginning of conflicts in quest for the Holy city of Jerusalem amongst Jews, Christians and Muslims till date. It was on the 10th Muharram when Prophet Nuh (AS) is said to have docked his ship on Mount Aarat (Judi), after the great floods which wiped out every life form from the face of the earth, excepts for the couples of life forms which were safe on the great ship of Prophet Nuh (AS).

However it is the sacrifice of Imam Hussein, son of Fatima (RA) and Ali and grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), for which the month of Muharram perhaps holds reverence amongst all other months of the Hijri calendar after Ramzan. The eventful day of Yaum-e-Ashura in 61AH, historically was the culmination of a period of treachery by the Umayyad dynasty. The ruler of Umayyad, Muawiya had made a treaty of peace with the Hazrat Ali (RA) and his son Imam Hasan, after they tried to unsettle and attacked the Arab kingdom and opposed the caliphate under the followers of Islam and Prophet Muhammad (SAW). After their death the ruler of Umayyad in Damascus, Yazid son of Muawiya annulled the treaty and claimed his own authority over the region and started persecution of Muslims and followers of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as well as threatened the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Imam Hussein opposed the authority of Yazid and defied him by refusing to submit to the demands of the tyrant. It was at that time when the people of Kufa (present day Iraq) sent a message to Imam Hussein seeking help from the tyranny of Yazid which threatened their faith and their lives. They also promised allegiance and support to Imam Hussein. The message compelled Imam Hussein to seek the people of Kufa in the time of their distress and he along with his family and followers set forth for Kufa. He sent a messenger named Muslim ibn Aqeel, his cousin in advance, who was however murdered by the governor of Basra, ibn Zayd who threatened the people of Kufa with dire consequences if they sided with Imam Hussein. The timid dwellers of Kufa submitted to the commands of ibn Zayd, a wily commander under Yazid.

Imam Hussein by then unknown of the happenings continued upon his journey. He was asked by Yazid to pay allegiance to him as the ruler of the kingdom and submit to his commands, whence he would be spared and provided with a safe passage to Medina or face death over his opposition from the forces of Yazid. But Imam Hussein, the true grandson of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) he was, refused to go back on his promise to the people of Kufa and marched forward with 72 men as his relatives and followers and the women and children, most of them being the descendants of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Unaware was he of the fact that it was the same people for whom he was going, who had betrayed him. It was on the 1st of Muharram 61 AH when Imam Hussein reached the plains of Karbala (presently in central Iraq), with the river Euphrates on one side and vast plains of dry, semi-arid land around. Once here Imam Hussein came to know about the betrayal of inmates of Kufa and the murder of his cousin Muslim ibn Aqeel. Further movement of the descendants of Prophet Muhammad was blocked by Yazids army of over 20,000 strong cavalry and infantry, led by a commander named Hurr, who later joined Imam Hussein against Yazid with 32 of his faithful cavalry to make it 72 men along with the 40 of Imam Hussein and his relatives and followers, who laid down their lives in the Battle of Karbala (some historians however refute this, saying the 72 martyred were the original followers of Imam Hussein who left Medina).

Imam Hussein was forced to pitch camp in this desert area by Yazid who increased the might of his forces with every passing day such that it reached strength of over 40,000 against sparsely armed 72 men from Imam Hussein’s camp on Yaum-e-Ashura. On the 7th day of Muharram, Yazid cut of the access of water for them, when all negotiations, harassment and allurements to deviate Imam Hussein from the path of Islam and force submission failed. For three days the children of Prophet and women, elderly and even infants weren’t spared a drop of water to drink. When on the 9th day the camp was completely surrounded by the army, Imam Hussein knew that battle was inevitable and he dug trenched around the camp and lit fire in it to protect the women and children from the savages. The battle began on the 10th day of Muharram early morning after Imam Hussein and his followers offered the Fajr prayers. Yazids forces fired arrows on to them from all sides as they were aware that face to face confrontation with the believers would inflict heavy losses on them. Imam Hussein’s camp was bejeweled with the most fearsome warriors in Abbas ibn Ali his brother, Zuhair ibn Qain, Habib ibn Muzahir and Imam Hussein himself. They charged the enemy with such brute force that each of Imam Hussein’s followers killed hundreds from Yazids troops before laying down his life. Zuhair ibn Qain is said to have single handedly killed more than 4000 of the enemy fighters and Abbas ibn Ali even many more.

It was towards late afternoon when the women in Imam Hussein’s camp asked him for water for the infants and small children who had not a drop of water for over 3 days. Imam Hussein asked Abbas to get water for the women. Abbas surmounted a horse and tearing through the army build up reached the river to fill the water skin. He however did not drink water himself as he was aware that Imam Hussein and other men were fighting the battle with parched throats. As he was returning to the camp with water, Yazid ordered over 10,000 of his men attack Abbas in unison and prevent him from taking water. Abbas fought courageously and when both his hands were cut off, he still tried to reach the camp with the water bag held with his teeth. The barbarians however foiled his intentions and he was martyred without being able to provide water to the thirsty descendants of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Unable to bear the loss of all his men and the plight of the infants dying of thirst, Imam Hussein took his 6 month (2 months as per some scholars) old son Ali Asghar in his arms and walked towards the enemy to at least have mercy on the innocent. But the tyrant he was, Yazid asked an archer to shoot an arrow towards the baby which pierced his throat and Imam Hussein’s infant son died in his arms, without a drop of water on his lips.

The last man surviving he was, Imam Hussein charged the enemy with all his might and defeated anyone who came before him. Finally Yazid’s men attacked him from back and showered arrows at him, one of which struck right into his heart and he fell from his horse. Imam Hussein pulled out the arrow as a fountain of blood sprang out. But he still continued to fight when a large spear hit him into his abdomen and with the name of Allah on his lips and blessings from his grandfather, Imam Hussein was treacherously martyred. The savage Yazid cut of Imam Hussein’s head trampled his severed body with horses and captured all the women and children who were tortured and imprisoned and taken to Damascus. On the way to the prison, Zainab, sister of Imam Hussein preached the people of the cities from wherever they passed through telling them about the atrocities of Yazid, his false claim to rule over the kingdom and the teachings of Islam and Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The effect was a growing resent from the people and he was forced to release the prisoners after a year.

The Battle of Karbala tragically ended in physical defeat for Muslims where 72 truest men of Allah lost their lives fighting for the cause of Islam. They chose death over submission before a tyrant and showed us the path to sacrifice for the sake of safeguarding their promise for the suppressed. The valiant men also showed courage in the face of adversity as was evident that more than 10.000 of the enemy camp were killed at the hands of 72 valiant descendants of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

One distasteful tradition been followed by some Muslims and Shia’s in particular, around the world is the taking out of processions in the form of Taziya (replicas of tombs and other monuments) and men beating their bodies with hands, chains and knives, inflicting pain and injury upon themselves to relive the memories of the atrocities faced by Imam Hussein and his followers on that eventful day. Though the intentions of these people might be an act of reverence for the 72 martyrs, the methodology of expression is clearly uncalled for. The teachings of Islam clearly despises such acts of violence and carrying out of replicas and monuments; instead the day should be passed in remembrance of the events, narrating others about it as well as learning from their sacrifice. It is also recommended that a fast be kept on Yaum-e-Ashura as well as on either the 9th or the 11th day of Muharram in commemoration and seek blessings from Allah. It is said the rewards of keeping this fast is second only to the fasts kept in Ramzan. It is also advised to read the Dua-e-Ashura on the day of 10th Muharram, which has immense benefits. The Dua-e-Ashura can be accessed at the following link.
http://fardinq.blogspot.com/search/label/Dua%20e%20Ashura

More details about the prayers and significance of Yaum-e-Ashura can be read at:
http://fardinq.blogspot.com/2007_03_01_archive.html#8100681240090322405

The detailed events of the Battle of Karbala can be read by downloading the pdf version of the book: The Karbala @ the following link:
http://www.ezsoftech.com/ebooks/TheKarbala.pdf

The Front Cover of the Book