Thinking About Niqab

Yes, it's a photoshopped picture of me wearing niqab. There is something amazing about the feeling with it on. I can't describe it... no wait, I can, there is a word... safe. Safe, subhan Allah, there's something safe about wearing it.

After taking the picture above. I took off the niqab and took a look in the mirror, and it felt like a nakedness.

May Allah give me the strength to do what pleases Him.

Subhan Allah... I thank my friend Zakia for getting me a step closer to it. Big time respect, seriously. :)

Bab al Raja (Eng subs) | Nasheed for the distressed | Muhammad al Muqit

I need to listen to this... all the time

Thinking About Marriage

Today is the day my husband and I had our wedding reception. This was 4 years ago, al-hamdu lillah.

I remember being a little child, probably around 11 years old, sitting in the back seat while my father drove and thinking about what my husband is possibly doing right at that moment, what he looked like, who he was with, etc. etc.

Then at 19 years old, I build up the courage to let my parents know that I would like to get married. I didn't have anyone in mind, but I expressed to them that this is something I am open for. Let's just say they thought that it wasn't appropriate to bring up the subject then.

Many suitors came and one was a disaster, and then, finally, somehow, my husband found his way to me.

I remember feeling so grateful once we had our wedding that I would pray an extra two prostrations each night. I was 24 years old, and before he came, I was almost certain that I would never get married. You see, my family had so many requirements, that it made the process incredibly difficult. My husband and his family, apparently didn't see my parents requests as difficult. Al-hamdu lillah.

During our honeymoon, I remember we took a walk at the beach, it was quite amazing. I've never been out late like before; it was 3 A.M. It was a night I will never forget. The feeling of fear of the night and the protection of my husband all at once.

After one year, we decided it was time to start a family. Here I am almost 3 years later and that dream hasn't come to life. If anything, this process made us stronger. Although my husband doesn't express his feelings to me, I do appreciate that he lets me vent out my feelings and emotions and calms me with Islamic reminders of Allah's decree and our purpose in life.

Marriage is definitely not always easy. We have our good times and our difficult times. It is a process in which we are learning about each other and growing.

This year I went back to school. It really helped me get distracted from thinking about having a family, so I am grateful for that. My husband has been a great support in helping me study and getting me through it with ease.

Marriage. Ups and Downs. Gratefulness. 

Songs About Jannah

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gMFkTrOUqs&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80B7VrM2omk&feature=related

A Better Mind

‎"Do not be people without minds of your own, saying that if others
treat you well you will treat them well, and that if they do wrong you
will do wrong to them. Instead, accustom yourselves to do good if
people do good and not to do wrong (even) if they do evil."
– Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)

HOPE

I typed the word "hope" in a Qur'an search engine and I was reminded of a great reminder 

According to the Qur'an a believer hopes for Allah's: mercy, forgiveness, entrance into Jannah, meeting with Allah, blessing in our invocations, forgiving of faults, trade-gain that will never parish, and a great reward. 

 While hoping a believer: performs righteous deeds, turns to their Lord, pray, create no mischief on the earth, spend in charity, follow the Messenger's (salla Allahu `alayhi wa salam) example, recite the Qur'an, does not despair, are forgiving, speak with soft and kind words, associate no partners with Allah, hasten to do good, humble themselves, and strive hard in the way of Allah.

Subhan Allah, it's amazing how easily it is to get side tracked and to hope for things that don't matter. Allah told us how to use our heart so that it doesn't feel the stings of pain, and if anyone were to hope in something other than what Allah has recommended, indeed, this has the potential to be a source of pain.

May this world not be our greatest worry... because it is fleeting.

It's not easy to stay focused and to do all things we need to to be a better person, but it's an effort that has great rewards and is well worth it.

I want to focus my hopes on those mentioned in the Qur'an. When I worry about when I'll have children, if I'll pass my next exam, and if this year will bring about change, these things only weigh me down. Al-hamdu lillah, patience through all this is a virtue, but it shouldn't weigh me down or frustrate me.

I had to come here and type because I couldn't sleep after suhoor. It is probably the sugar in the juice that left me wide awake.

Allah is Merciful, Loving... there isn't a challenge except that Allah provides for it ease. That is a promise in the Qur'an, so let the believer have hope and never to despair in the Mercy of Allah. 

The Watching Eye

Subhan Allah, when I think about perception, the first thing that comes to mind is how Allah perceives us. I didn't think this way before, it used to be, how do people watching perceive us.

For instance, take an embarrassing situation:You're in front of people and someone humiliates you. It may be that a person will jump to feel embarrassed and close in on themselves, or a better option is to realize who he is embarrassing you in front of.

I'm wondering how great it would be if I fully understood and practiced ihsan. To live life in such a way in which you can see Allah watching. It means having taqwa, and being careful... that's what I understand of it at this point in my life. I'm sure this thought will develop into something else as the years pass.

The Qur'an talks about that feeling of people watching and how horrible it is to focus on that:

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمنِ الرَّحِيمِأَرَأَيْتَ الَّذِي يُكَذِّبُ بِالدِّينِ ﴿١﴾1.  Have you seen him who denies the Recompense?فَذَلِكَ الَّذِي يَدُعُّ الْيَتِيمَ ﴿٢﴾2.  That is he who repulses the orphan (harshly),وَلَا يَحُضُّ عَلَى طَعَامِ الْمِسْكِينِ ﴿٣﴾3.  And urges not the feeding of AlMiskin (the poor),فَوَيْلٌ لِّلْمُصَلِّينَ ﴿٤﴾4.  So woe unto those performers of prayers (hypocrites),الَّذِينَ هُمْ عَن صَلَاتِهِمْ سَاهُونَ ﴿٥﴾5.  Who delay their prayer from their stated fixed times,الَّذِينَ هُمْ يُرَاؤُونَ ﴿٦﴾6.  Those who do good deeds only to be seen (of men),وَيَمْنَعُونَ الْمَاعُونَ ﴿٧﴾7.  And refuse small kindnesses.

Notice verse 6 in Surah al-Ma`un. There are those who do good deeds to be seen of men. I'm sure this is probably referring to the hypocrites at the time. I'm sure I need to read into it more; however, the concept of altering our behavior because of who is watching is something worth thinking deeply about.

Indeed the only One worthy of us changing out behavior for His sake is Allah.

When this is fully realized, I believe that a person can step away from public shame, pride, and humiliation... and feel a more introverted pain when he or she sins. This inward pain will not be public but will sincerely be from shame that Allah saw us, and any pride that's worth enjoying is the pride of feeling when something has been done secretly for Allah, and humiliation will only be felt if Allah wasn't fully remembered in any situation.

Subhan Allah, may Allah protect us from a heart that is not aware of Him.

May Allah guide us towards what pleases Him.

May Allah make us of those who receive good in this life, good in the hereafter, and protection from the hell-fire. Amin

Ramadan

Every Ramadan is better than the Ramadan before it, in one way or another. This Ramadan, I'm finding taraweeh prayer to be an enjoyment... in the past, I felt it was long and difficult. Subhan Allah, the best things in life take time to learn. 

My regret is that I haven't spent as much time with the Qur'an as I would like, but in sha' Allah I will change that. It's mostly because I've been studying for the CSET, and this has filled many hours of my time up. I haven't even called my mom to say hello as I've been so preoccupied, and this isn't good. 

Just as there are triumphs there are challenges. I ask that Allah eases our challenges and guides us towards all that is good and pure. 

Sweet Song :)

Title in Arabic 12:  ناديت وقلبي منكسر
Transliteration / Title in English: Nadaytu Wa-Qalbi Munkassir
Duration: 4:03
Size:  2.91 MB

'Love & Life' arabic nasheed | English subtitles

Mixed Gratitude and Depression

Whenever sadness settles within me, I try to mix in some gratitude to ease the pain. If gratitude doesn't work, then it is time to submit to the thought of death and the preparation for it. One prepares by doing what is pleasing to Allah. The remembrance of Allah's might and power is overwhelming. It can calm any hardship at any time.

You Will Receive What is Yours

'Abd Allah ibn 'Umar said the Messenger of Allah said:

I told you everything which moves you away from Fire, and I guided you to everything which brings you closer to Paradise.
The Holy Spirit inspired me to say that no person dies until his sustenance is completed; therefore, take it easy in earning your sustenance. Don't let the slowness of your sustenance urge you to seek the bounty of Allah by His disobedience, because Allah's bounty is gained through obedience to Him. Every human being has his sustenance which undoubtedly will come to him, and whoever is pleased with it, it will be blessed for him and it will suffice him, and for whoever is unhappy with it, it will not be blessed for him and it will not suffice him. Indeed, sustenance seeks a man as his fate (death) seeks him.

Reflecting Upon Friendship

Surah TaHa has four verses that sum up what friendship means:


Confirm my strength with him (31) And let him share my task, (32) That we may glorify Thee much (33) And much remember Thee. (34)


These verses are important to reflect upon.


Confirm my strength with him:


The way I see it, we're weak. We need someone to give us that boost to move on and lift our heads. In unity there is strength. This strength comes in many ways too. It comes in the way you feel and in the physical sense. Clearly when you're down sometimes it could be the simplest thing that your friend says that cheers you up. We all need those kind of people in our lives, those strengtheners. Besides that, physically trying to carry weight or fight is hard alone, it's easier with someone by your side. 


And let him share my task:


It's an idea that you're not alone. The effort exerted in work needs support. When a task is shared there is ease in that task. A task done alone will burn a person out, it will tire that person and it will not be productive to say the least. A shared task is beneficial. Take a business for example, you run a business on your own it will only bring you misery; however, hiring a team shares the task and excels the profit ratio and makes your efforts more lucrative. Working alone is burdensome, but it doesn't have to be that way. 


That we may glorify thee much:


Allah deserves to be glorified and it is easier to glorify Him when we do it with company. Part of glorifying Him is doing what He loves, and if you're doing it without complaint or burden because the task was shared, it would be better. I know this is a bit of a tangent, but the worst thing a person can do is a task with complaint. Allah deserves our best attitude. He has only given us good. 


And much remember thee:


What's the point of this life if we don't remember Allah. It's good to have a friend that will keep you in that remembrance. It is His remembrance that enhances the peace in our hearts and in our lives. 




Friendship... it is a beautiful thing if it is done right. The Qur'an tells us how it works, it's our job to do it. 

Understanding Gratefulness

I feel grateful to Allah.

Subhan Allah, I went into surgery. I came out having them say there was nothing wrong. Look at that! What was that? Subhan Allah, Allahu Akbar! Indeed Allah is in charge, it is His plan.

I don't know what this all means, but I know my iman is stronger than ever... I'm very happy... I'm very grateful.

Ya Rabbi, You are my Rab! You are the One I turn to! You are the One I trust! The One I seek forgiveness from, and will keep requesting Your forgiveness, because I have sinned beyond measure... and I know your forgiveness is beyond measure.

Oh my Rab, I am grateful, and I want to be ready to meet You one day. Strong faith, equals strong happiness, it is not riya` to express this feeling of love I have for You, for I want the world to know that You are Perfect, Your religion is Perfect, this way of life is perfect... ya Rab, I want the world to know!

al-hamdu lillah... al-hamdu lillah... al-hamdu lillah

----
I realize there is excitement in this post, but this feeling was just as real and exaggerated as it sounds.

Amazing Poem! Nice!

This poem draws my heart closer to Allah. I want Allah, need Allah, feel comfort only with Allah.

Ya Rab! Ya Rab! So NICE!

Allah

I focus on the justice that Allah has on people.

Subhan Allah, being patient, kind, and understanding isn't always easy.

There are people that make life so trying and difficult.

I figure, when something bad happens to me it is my fault. Subhan Allah, if someone treated me badly today it is because there was a time I treated someone badly and I deserve this retaliation.

I don't know how to be kind all the time, so why would I expect people to always be kind with me.

I don't know how to be patient all the time... or understanding.

It's hard to deal with some of the issues with people that this life has. It's not that I have any issues, I'm just reflecting about the emotional state that a simple act of unkindness would do to someone. There's a pain associated to feeling like the person you love doesn't really care for you.

Allah is kind.

The greatest comfort is to know that no matter how hard some people may be towards you. That their bitterness will never do anything to Allah's kindness.

Allah is kind.

Kindness beautifies a person. It is a quality that requires a sincere heart, a soft heart.

Allah's kindness is a different type of kindness, a better kindness.

I trouble myself too much with unnecessary thoughts. I can't help but to take a matter and keep reflecting upon it in an attempt to understand the mercy of Allah.

You see, Allah is our goal, happiness, comfort. He is where we want to go and who we want to please.

Allah understands everything about us, what we're thinking, what we're going through, what our intention was, ... He understands. Allah is not like a human in which you have to sit and explain yourself to, no. Allah knows, sees, hears all that you do, so there is a comfort and peace in that. Allah knows what difficulty you go through, and therefore whatever hardship it is, He is the only One who can truly get you out of it.

May Allah give me patience, and the gift of having kindness, patience, and understanding with those around me. 

Sincerely

I find happiness in the fact that I will one day return to Allah. I know that my judgement is uncertain, but my love for Allah and need for Him is certain. 

Greatest Sadness

Subhan Allah, what is the greatest sadness?

The greatest sadness is despairing in the hope one has in Allah.

There are times when life gets really confusing. It reaches a point in which you feel as though the troubles are crawling up your neck. When thoughts keep pounding on your mind, and you feel as though there is no escape. There is one escape. If you need to escape, go to Allah.

Go to a place in which you can be with Allah alone. A place that you can talk freely with your heart open; who else will listen so intently? Allah is so close. He is so near. He is Allah. Al Baseer. Al Sami`.

Who would love us more than Allah? To be in His embrace, is to be happy.

Who can we turn to that will actually care? It is only Allah.

Bismillah. La illaha illa Allah Muhammad rasul Allah.

I Watch This Over and Over Again..... and over again....

How beautiful! Allah takes care of us. :) al-hamdu lillah

Absolutely Weak

Before we can fully understand Allah's power, we must understand ourselves.

We are weak, truly, weak. We rely on so much to get by. We rely on our faculty of breathing, our heart beat, we rely on whatever knowledge we have.. and the list goes on.

All of these things were given to us by Allah, and NONE of it by our own making, because nothing is possible without Allah... and anything is possible with Allah.

With that said, we must understand we are absolutely weak, Allah is absolutely powerful, and we rely on Him and everything we rely on came from Him... and everything we rely on will come from Him.

So it makes sense to focus on our du`a' and trust Him. 

Acceptance

When difficulty has touched me in the past, I would spend time getting closer to Allah to relieve myself of the burdens of negative thought and feelings.

With Allah pain is eased, doubt is removed, and trust is established. 

Sometimes, accepting a hard reality is difficult, especially when it seems as though everyone around you has a fortune in which you are missing. It is important to look away from what other people have and search within yourself, or the signs on earth to find a purpose to this life.

We already know the purpose is to worship Allah, but I'm talking about taking this a step further. 

Not to just worship Allah, but to befriend Him. Love Him. Fear Him..... want Him... and to somehow figure out, how to get the closest to Him.

Once that path to Him is figured out, that's the purpose of doing. Doing that thing that you need to do to get closer.

Perhaps these are all just shades of worship; however, I feel as though getting close and connecting takes an effort. A running effort. An Eager effort. 

Allah Kareem. 

I love this song

There's something about this Sami Yusuf song that speaks to my heart. You came to me... subhan Allah.

I'm thinking about how much Allah has given me, and how He is there when I need Him. So beautiful.

Also, the prophet Mohammed (salla Allahu `alayhi wa sallam) and all the lessons he had taught us with his beautiful example. Ya Rab.

I don't like to listen to songs with musical instruments, and this song is so attractive... akh. Ya Allah.

currency

The currency of this life is patience. 

Thoughts

One life, one chance, before death.

How do you expect to taste the sweetness of iman when you keep making it bitter with your sins?

There is no sickness worse than the sickness of a sin. There is no greater medicine than the medicine of Allah's forgiveness.

Some people don't pick up their phones... others get tired of listening to you talk... but Allah encourages you to call, and is always listening... He doesn't put you on mute, ignore you, or turns His back on you. His knowledge is present wherever you go, and He is aware of every difficulty you have. He knows what you're feeling. He understands you. He is always there for you... to listen... to help... to cure...

Make the best of du`a' to receive the best of answers.

How can I fear anything when Allah can grant anything?

Allah... Thank You

Ya Allah... you were there whenever I needed you. I trust you. 

CLEAN

I feel clean... al-hamdu lillah. This doesn't mean I'm perfect, no. This doesn't mean that I have surrendered my struggle to please Allah, no.

This means that my love for Allah, right now at this moment "feels" pure. This means that my love for His messenger Mohammed (salla Allahu `alayhi wa salam) .. feels pure. As a matter of fact, I saw my reflection in the mirror, and subhan Allah, I had this vision... this, I don't know, feeling... okay this will sound weird, but it was as though the prophet Mohammad (salla Allahu `alayhi wa salam) was here and gave me a gentle hug. ya Allah.

It was as though he was wearing a white thawb, and he came and shined his beautiful presence in my life for just a moment. But this thought, just the thought of the prophet being here, with me, here. subhan Allah. The thought of it, even though strange, it brought me a deep happiness.

The type of happiness you can only get by loving Allah. The kind of surrender of your heart to the love of the only One who can love you back purely.

Love Allah purely so that He may love you.

Why not love the prophet who gave this message to us? Why not surrender your heart willingly happily to the one Allah has chosen to give this message to us... Allah chose him. Subhan Allah, that is enough to make us love the prophet Mohammed (salla Allahu `alayhi wa salam).

Allah is pure, and right now, even though it was a slight bit of time... I felt clean, happiness, pure.

al-hamdu lillah for this. al-hamdu lillah for all good things. Allah Kareem.

Be at Ease

I need to understand what just happened.

By accident, I went on to a toll road... "Oh, no!" I thought, "I don't have any money!"

Driving along, thinking about the ticket I'm about to get I find myself accepting my fate.

Finally, I am at the toll with a heavy heart. Something inside of me just couldn't pass the toll without paying. I opened my trunk, maybe I can find something? While looking around calmly, with a heart that is in trouble, since I don't want to pass that line knowing that it's wrong, I just kept searching.

To my east, I hear a sound, "Do you need money?" I did, I know I did, but I didn't want to take anything from anyone. "I'm not a beggar, I'm not a person who asks, I'm not........ akh, but it's also rude to refuse this from you." Torn, I approached the car. "Take it! Take it!" they insisted.

I give up. I took it, and I'm sure they could see my distress. I told them, "I feel like crying, thank you." Then the lady said, "God bless you." Then, I thought, "Oh Rabbi, they are giving da`wah to 'me'.. " I didn't like this feeling. However, what's wrong with that du`a'? I told them I will put whatever change I have in charity. Sigh.

My friend who was with me told me about this being a gift from Allah. She explained how the events were just too perfect to be an accident. I can't help the feeling of shame that remained in me for the hour after that incident, I don't like being on the receiving end. Ya Rab.

In the end, I am grateful this is the most of my troubles tonight, al-hamdu lillah.

I am thankful for those people. They were kind. They encouraged the giving side of me. It is nice to see that other people are generous and helpful. al-hamdu lillah.

After this experience I realized that I need to be more generous. I need to give people before they "ask"... they gave me before I asked for help. I wasn't even going to ask for help; however, they helped me with the knowledge that they knew I needed it.

Ya Allah, make me of those who step forth before being asked. Make me of those that earn your pleasure and give of what you have given us. That money that they gave me was not theirs, it was Allah's, and they gave it to me. Ya Allah... they helped me.

This reminds me of a man I passed by in Palestine on the side of an old gray building. He had his hand out asking for money while reciting verses reminding us of Allah's mercy. I remember not giving him something... may Allah forgive me. I don't remember if I had money or not, but even if I didn't I should of went home, got it and went back.

I guess I want to help everyone before they ask... ya Rab. We need to be more generous!

al-hamdu lillah for this lesson, ya Rab, help me become a better person, a person who will understand that importance of giving always and never shy away from sharing my wealth.

Allah... forgive me, and you Love to Forgive.

Love and Encouragement

This was inspired from a facebook post:

Do not give people criticism, rather, give them love and encouragement.

Calm FACE Calm TONGUE

SUCCESS!

I have tasted success. I found myself sad, and I decided not to show or express this to the one who caused me pain... I left those feelings between Allah and me, and when I saw that person, I saw this person smiling. Before I approached this person, I literally wiped away my tears, made du`a' to make me strong and for Allah to help me with patience...

patience in my facial expressions and patience with my tongue.

When I saw this person, this person saw me as I am, and I decided to smile and be pleasant. This person started smiling and was pleasant and I felt every little ounce of hurt fade away until it had disappeared completely.

Patience has many rewards. One major reward is inner peace.

I realized you have to be an introvert to truly enjoy patience. You cannot always express how you feel. It is important that a person waits before reacting, and by the time you want to react the emotional impulses are gone.

Patience, in its phase of emotional restraint is quite difficult.

Patience is a gift from Allah, so it is important to ask Allah for that gift.

Patience is controlling your face and tongue... not complaining with your face and tongue ... saving all your complaints and grievances and unloading them with Allah, only Allah can actually help you. Even doctors can't help you the way that Allah helps you. Subhan Allah.

Be patient with your facial expressions and your tongue, but before you can be patient, you need to ask Allah for this gift first, because you can do it only with His help.

astaghfirAllah wa alhamdulillah :)

Patience is More than Just Patience

Bismillah

Patience is not something natural. We were born in haste!

We notice, through the hardships, that acting out on emotions or acting out on our desires have horrible results. Therefore, we hold in that annoying pressure within us to act out.

Patience is fighting our weakness. There are all sorts of weaknesses; however, the best among us are the ones who know what their weaknesses are and tread a life correcting them.

Have you ever heard that statement ~ go to your happy place ~ ?

Well, this is a technique that actually helps. Try during a time of annoyance to close your eyes and imagine the Jannah that is waiting for you. If that is too hard, then try to imagine a relaxing place of no annoyances and discomfort.

Patience, hard to do, even harder to live without.

Allah is Near so Thank Him!

Subhan Allah, we know that Allah is closer to us than our jugular vein.

50:16
وَلَقَدْ خَلَقْنَا الْإِنسَانَ وَنَعْلَمُ مَا تُوَسْوِسُ بِهِ نَفْسُهُ وَنَحْنُ أَقْرَبُ إِلَيْهِ مِنْ حَبْلِ الْوَرِيدِ

And indeed We have created man, and We know what his ownself whispers to him. And We are nearer to him than his jugular vein (by Our Knowledge).

So, Allah knows what we are thinking, our desires, what we want... He knows everything. As near as we know Him to be, it's baffling how we continue to live our lives as though He is not watching. When Allah is clearly al-Baseer.

Subhan Allah, it's funny how He is so close, and yet, it's as if we make Him out to be so far. Ya Rab.

An interesting thought occurred after talking to a friend. She explained how people request of Allah and get what they want and then turn their backs to Him in ungratefulness. She used a word in particular that opened my eyes. She said, "People use Allah as their tool," the word tool stuck in my head as she continued, "only to get what they want."

Subhan Allah, so in other words, it's as though we keep using Allah to get our way; however, we do not stop and think to thank Him.

Ah, what does this all mean?

To me, it's just a slap in the face. How can I, Diana, someone who has been given so much sit down and allow myself to fall in ungratefulness? It's unfortunate that I know I could be worshipping Him at a higher level and yet I am not allowing myself the change that I need.

The Change that I NEED:

1 - To thank Him more, to be in a constant state of saying, "al-hamdu lillah"

2 - To worship more: more nafl, more reading of the Qur'an, basically more doing.

3 - To spread this message more. I have something real, true, tangible... why am I not putting in more effort to spread this gift?

Subhan Allah, before I overwhelm myself with the things I need to do, I need to step back and accept that I am going to change. I am going to tackle this, as much as I can at a time, in sha' Allah.

Astaghfir Allah.

Al-hamdu lillah

Allahu Akbar

Allahu Musta`an.

Seeking Allah's FACE

Subhan Allah, when a person is loved, one thing that swims in the mind is that person's face. However, the love one has towards any person is nothing compared to the love that we must have for Allah, and seeking His face... subhan Allah... His face!

There will be some who have worked so hard in their life that they will earn the position of being in front of Allah. Some will be to His right, others to His left, and those who have earned a grand near status in the forefront.

As it says in Surah al-Waqi`ah

7. And you will be in three kinds

فَأَصْحَابُ الْمَيْمَنَةِ مَا أَصْحَابُ الْمَيْمَنَةِ (٨)
8. So those on the Right Hand. Who will be those on the Right Hand? (As a respect for them, because they will enter Paradise).

وَأَصْحَابُ الْمَشْأَمَةِ مَا أَصْحَابُ الْمَشْأَمَةِ (٩)
9. And those on the Left Hand (i.e. those who will be given their Record in their left hands), Who will be those on the Left Hand? (As a disgrace for them, because they will enter Hell).

وَالسَّابِقُونَ السَّابِقُونَ (١٠)
10. And those foremost (in Islamic Faith of Monotheism and in performing righteous deeds) will be foremost (in Paradise).

أُوْلَئِكَ الْمُقَرَّبُونَ (١١)
11. These will be those nearest to Allah.

فِي جَنَّاتِ النَّعِيمِ (١٢)
12. In the Gardens of delight (Paradise).

Subhan Allah... just to see His face.

Living life with that as our main objective makes all the difference.

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Good Role Model

It is reported that Al-Husayn b. Muhammad said:

Muhammad b. Ismâ`îl Al-Bukhârî was distinguished with three qualities – in addition to the rest of his praseworthy traits: He never spoke much, he never yearned for what people had. He would never occupy himself with other people’s affairs; all his attention was towards knowledge.

Al-Dhahabî, Siyar A’lâm Al-Nubalâ` 12:449



Source: http://www.sayingsofthesalaf.net/#ixzz1QnAQ7586

Fly

Oh, fly in a flight,
with a flutter and a fight,
flee to your Lord,
without a fright.

Qualities of Leadership by Ibn Khaldun

generosity,

the forgiveness of error,

tolerance toward the weak,

hospitality toward guests,

the support of dependents,

maintenance of the indigent,

patience in adverse circumstances,

faithful fulfillment of obligations,

liberality with money for the preservation of honor,

respect for the religious law and for the scholars who are learned in it,

observation of the things to be done or not to be done that (those scholars) prescribe for them,

thinking highly of (religious scholars),

belief in and veneration for men of religion and a desire to receive their prayers,

great respect for old men and teachers,

acceptance of the truth in response to those who call to it,

fairness to and care for those who are too weak to take care of themselves,

humility towards the poor,

attentiveness to the complaints of supplicants,

fulfillment of the duties of the religious law and divine worship in all details,

avoidance of fraud, cunning, deceit,

and of not fulfilling obligations,

and similar things.

These are the qualities of leadership.

(from the book Al Muqadimmah by Ibn Khaldun page 292)

Quotes from Sahabah:

source of these quotes:
http://islamicquotes.wordpress.com

On Sinning:

Abdullah bin Abbas said: “You who commit a sin, do not feel secure about the results, for what goes along with the sin is more serious than the sin itself. Your lack of shame before the angels, who witness you when you commit the sin, is more serious than the sin itself. Your laughter when you sin, as you forget the punishment of Allah is more serious than the sin itself. Your delight if you get a chance to sin, is more serious than the sin itself. Even your disappointment, if you miss a chance to sin is more serious than the sin itself.”

Be content with what you have,Be satisfied with your dwelling place to accommodate your enterprise,Restrain your tongue,And shed tears of regret regarding past sins you committed knowingly, and those you do not recognize… ‘Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud

On Taqwa:

Abdullah bin Mas’ud – “Taqwa is to obey Allah, so that He is not disobeyed, to remember Allah, so that He is not forgotten, and to thank Allah, so that no ingratitude is shown to Him”
----

“Whoever does 4 things is fortunate in this world and in the Hereafter.

1. Reciting Laa ilaaha illallaah Muhammadur-Rasoolullaah; Inna lillaahi wa inaa ilaihi raaji’oon when any mishap befalls them;
2. saying la hawla wa laa quwwata illa billahil ‘azeem – alhumdulillahi rabbil alameen when any gift is bestowed upon them;
3. saying bismillahir-rahmaanir-raheem when beginning any work; and
4. saying astaghfirullahil ‘azeem wa atoobu ilayhi when any sin is noticed.”

['Abdullah bin 'Amr bin al-Aas]

My Heart Sings Ramadan

Al-hamdu lillah... Al-hamdu lillah... Al-hamdu lillah

Ramadan of 2010 is here, and we are observing it!!! Al-hamdu lillah!

Being able to fast, and worship during this month should bring a believer into a state of great happiness... euphoria. Subhan Allah, it's so surreal, so beautifully surreal.

The mouth is dry, the energy is weak, but the spirit is rejoicing.

The heart is alive.

The connection towards Allah is real.

May Allah accept our Ramadan fasts... our du`a'... our efforts.... may Allah forgive us... and reward us with success, and He is the One who rewards His believers with success. Amin.

Attitude Towards the Qur'an

The Qur'an is a book that should be loved by the believers. This book is filled with guidance, comfort, lessons, and most importantly, it is Allah's words! Subhan Allah.

It is "easy" to memorize something you love, to read something you love, and to want something you love.

Let's not forget that our attitude should not only be of love; however, there should be deep fear too. The believer is one in which the warnings of Allah cause their heart and skin to shiver, causes their eyes to weep, and their heart to soften.

A believer believes in this message, thus the strong reactions.

The Qur'an brought us glad tidings, and warnings, and when we come across the two we are either hopeful or fearful.

These oft-repeating verses that strengthen our tawheed, our love, hope, and fear should be a part our lives.

The Qur'an should not be a tool to boast to others about, as an arrogant person may want to show to others what he had memorized or learned as an act of "accomplishment", wanting the praise of others... though memorizing, and learning is quite important, the intention behind the two should sincerely be for the sake of Allah - always!

All one needs to do is to look deep into their heart and pray that Allah accepts their efforts, it's as easy as that. A simple dua (supplication) can cure a wicked heart.

The heart is a struggle at times, it's hard to make it firm on belief and to destroy its wants of people's awe... however, when a person reaches a point in which Allah is the main objective in his or her life, that's when true freedom of the heart rests in that human body.

Allah Kareem, we ask Him for His love, mercy, and guidance.

Praising without Breaking

Praise has to be balanced and effective. A good word can go a long way, and criticism has to be done with kindness and tact.

Praise should not be overwhelming, too much praise can have two negative consequences. One is that the person will lose interest in their work conceiving it as being already good and there is no need to improve it. Another problem with praise is the ego. It can give some people this feeling of, accomplishment that may set off a "I must be better than so and so, and so and so," which is not going to lead to good consequences, as people can see right through that attitude and grow in disgust towards that person.

Praise needs to be done right. Something as simple as, "I appreciate the work you're doing, may Allah accept it from you," is enough. This way, you're appropriately thanking the person and keeping their heart on the right track with the reminder of Allah. Furthermore, an even better complement, is "Jazakum Allahu khayran."

As for advice, I'm going to be simple, make sure it's kind and tactful.

Sweetness =)

Allah brings good people in our lives, al-hamdu lillah. =)

Dhikr to Reflect

Hadith Qudsi

This hadith helps me draw nearer to Allah. I hope it does the same for you:

In the Hadith Qudsi (Sacred Hadith), the Prophet (PBUH) mentioned that Allah (God) (SWT) said,

“Myself, Mankind and Jinn are in a great serious state.

I create them, then they worship other gods that they make for themselves;

I bless them with my bounties, then they thank someone else for what I sent them;

My Mercy descends to them while their evil deeds ascend to Me;

I endear them with my gifts even though I have no need to any of them while they alienate themselves from Me with their sins even though they are desperate for my help. Whoever returns to Me, I accept him no matter how far he is;

and whoever turns away from Me, I approach him and call on him. Whoever leaves a sin for my sake, I reward him with many gifts and whoever seeks to please Me, I seek to please him.

Whoever acknowledges My Will and Power in whatever he does, I make the iron bend for his sake.

My dear people are those who are with Me (i.e. whoever would like to be with Me, let him supplicate to Me and remember Me).

Whoever thanks Me, I grant him more blessings;


whoever obeys Me, I raise him and endear him more. Whoever disobeys Me, I keep the doors of My Mercy open for him;

if he returns to Me, I bestow him with My Love since I love those who repent and purify themselves for My Sake. If he does not repent, I still treat him by putting them in hardship to purify him.

Whoever favors Me over others, I favor them over others.

I reward every single good deed ten times over or seven hundred times over to countless times over. I count every single bad deed as one unless the person repents and ask for My Forgiveness in which case I forgive even that one. I take into account any little good deed and I forgive even major sins.

My Mercy supersedes My Anger;

My Tolerance supersedes My Blame;

My Forgiveness supersedes My Punishment as I am more merciful with My slaves than a mother with her child.”

AWESOME Arabic in English! =)

This is Hilariously Awesome! =) You'll see when you watch this! =)

You may need to fast forward a bit of the beginning. I recommend starting at 3:00 min. =)

For the Sake of Allah's Pleasure...

I absolutely love this article on "Best Deeds" from: Islamicfinder.org

SOME OF THE HUMAN QUALITIES ALLAH, THE ALMIGHTY LOVES
"Say (O Muhammad to mankind): "If you (really) love Allah, then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic monotheism, follow the Quran and the Sunnah), Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Quran: 3:31)

Patience
"And Allah loves as-Sabirun (the patient)." (Quran: 3:146)

Justice and Dealing with Equity
"Be just: that is nearer to piety; and fear Allah." (Quran: 5:8)

Putting Trust in Allah
"Certainly, Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him)." (Quran: 3:159)

Perfection of One's Work
The Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves that if one does a job he perfects it."

Rescuing
Abu Ya ‘la Dailami and Ibn Asakir narrated: Abu Hurairah and Anas Ibn Malik said: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves rescuing the one who needs rescue."

Being Kind and Gentle to Others
Baihaqani narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah is kind and gentle (to others)."

Kindliness
"Aisha narrated: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves kindliness in all matters." (Bukhari)

Repentance
"Truly, Allah loves those who turn unto him in repentance." (Quran: 2:222)

Piety
"Verily, then Allah loves those who are al-Muttaqun (the pious)."
(Quran: 3:76)

Good-doing
"Truly, Allah loves Al-Muhsinun (the good-doers)." (Quran: 2:195)

Body Purification
"And Allah loves those who make themselves clean and pure [ i.e. who clean their private parts with dust (which has the properties of soap) and water from urine and stools, after answering the call of nature]." (Quran: 9:108)

Humility of the Rich
Muslim narrated: Sa'd Ibn Abi Waqqas said: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves the believer who is pious and rich, but does not show off."

Belief and Work
Al-Tabarani narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves the slave who believes and acquires a career (or work)."

Reflection of Allah's Grace
Al-Tirmidhi narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves from amongst his slaves, the one who has a sense of zeal or honor."

Magnanimity
Al-Hakim narrated: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "Allah is All-Generous and He loves generosity in sale, purchase and judgment."

Virtuosity
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: " Allah loves the slave-believer who is poor but virtuous enough to refrain from begging though he has many children." (Muslim and Ahmed)

Loftiness
Al-Tabarani narrated: the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves lofty matters and superiority and hates inferior matters."

Justice
Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves that you be just toward your children even when kissing them." (Ibn Al-Najjar)

Strength
Muslim narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The strong believer is better and more loved by Allah than the weak one, but they are both good."

Love for the Sake of Allah
Al-Tabarani, Ibn Ya'la, Ibn Hibban and Al-Hakim narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "If two men love each other for the sake of Allah, the stronger in love to his brother will be more loved by Allah."

Forgiveness
Ibn Iday narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah is All-Forgiving and He loves forgiveness."

Continuous Performance of Righteous Deeds
Bukhari and Muslim narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The best loved deeds to Allah are the ones that are continuous even if they are not very many."

Loving and Visiting Believers
Malik narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah said: My love is due to those who meet for My sake, visit one another and make any effort for My pleasure."

Exhortation and Advising
Abdullah, the son of Imam Ahmed narrated: It was said: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The best loved slaves to Allah are those who exhort their slaves."

Love of Virtuous Deeds
Ibn Abi Al-Dunya narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The best loved slaves to Allah are those who are made to love virtue and loving virtuous deeds is made lovely to them."

Good Manners and Conduct
Al-Tirmidhi narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The best loved by me and the nearest to me on the seats on the Day of Resurrection are those who have the best manners and conduct amongst you, who are intimate, are on good terms with others and are humble, and the most hated by me and who will be on the furthest seats from me are those who are talkative and arrogant."

Love of Allah is the basis of worship that should be directed to Him alone. Any other love should be for His sake too. The real love of Allah is to do whatever He ordained and to abandon whatever He forbade, in addition to following the Prophet's Sunnah.

Whoever obeys someone or something other than Allah and His Messenger, or follows any saying other than theirs, or fears other than Allah or seeks the pleasure of other than Allah, or puts his trust in other than Him, does not love Allah, nor does he love His Messenger. Muslims should also love one another and wish the best for one another. Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said:

"One will not be a true believer unless he loves for his brother what he loves for himself." (Bukhari, Muslim, Nasa'i, Ahmed and Ibn Majah)

Imam Malik and Imam Ahmed narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah said: My love is due to those who love one another for My sake."