In The Name Of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
O mankind! We created you from a single soul, male and female, and
made you into nations and tribes, so that you may come to know one
another. Truly, the most honored of you in God's sight is the greatest
of you in piety. God is All-Knowing, All-Aware 49:13)
WHAT IS ISLAM?
Islam is not a new religion, but the same truth that God revealed through all His prophets to every people. For a fifth of the world's population, Islam is both a religion and a complete way of life. Muslims follow a religion of peace, mercy, and forgiveness, and the majority have nothing to do with the extremely grave events which have come to be associated with their faith.
WHO ARE THE MUSLIMS?
One billion people from a vast range of races, nationalities and cultures across the globe -- from the southern Philippines to Nigeria -- are united by their common Islamic faith. About 18% live in the Arab world; the world's largest Muslim community is in Indonesia; substantial parts of Asia and most of Africa are Muslim, while significant minorities are to be found in the Soviet Union, China, North and South America, and Europe.
WHAT DO MUSLIMS BELIEVE?
Muslims believe in One Unique, Incomparable God; in the Angels created by Him; in the prophets through whom His revelations were brought to mankind; in the Day of Judgment and individual accountability for actions; in God's complete authority over human destiny and in life after death. Muslims believe in a chain of prophets starting with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, Elias, Jonah, John the Baptist, and Jesus, peace be upon them. But God's final message to man, a reconfirmation of the eternal message and a summing-up of all that has gone before was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through Gabriel.
HOW DOES SOMEONE BECOME A MUSLIM?
Simply by saying 'there is no god apart from God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.' By this declaration the believer announces his or her faith in all God's messengers, and the scriptures they brought.
WHAT DOES 'ISLAM' MEAN?
The Arabic word 'Islam' simply means 'submission', and derives from a word meaning 'peace'. In a religious context it means complete submission to the will of God.
Mohammedanism' is thus a misnomer because it suggests that Muslims worship Muhammad rather than God. 'Allah' is the Arabic name for God, which is used by Arab Muslims and Christians alike.
WHY DOES ISLAM OFTEN SEEM STRANGE?
Islam may seem exotic or even extreme in the modern world. Perhaps this is because religion does not dominate everyday life in the West today, whereas Muslims have religion always uppermost in their minds, and make no division between secular and sacred. They believe that the Divine Law, the Shari'a, should be taken very seriously, which is why issues related to religion are still so important.
DO ISLAM AND CHRISTIANITY HAVE DIFFERENT ORIGINS?
No. Together with Judaism, they go back to the prophet and patriarch Abraham, and their three prophets are directly descended from his sons Muhammad from the eldest, Ishmael, and Moses and Jesus from Isaac. Abraham established the settlement which today is the city of Makkah, and built the Ka'abah towards which all Muslims turn when they pray.
WHAT IS THE KA'ABAH?
The Ka'abah is the place of worship which God commanded Abraham and Ishmael to build over four thousand years ago. The building was constructed of stone on what many believe was the original site of a sanctuary established by Adam. God commanded Abraham to summon all mankind to visit this place, and when pilgrims go there today they say 'At Thy service, O Lord', in response to Abraham's summons.
WHO IS MUHAMMAD?
Muhammad was born in Makkah in the year 570, at a time when Christianity was not yet fully established in Europe. Since his father died before his birth, and his mother shortly afterwards, he was raised by his uncle from the respected tribe of Quraysh. As he grew up, he became known for his truthfulness, generosity and sincerity, so that he was sought after for his ability to arbitrate in disputes. The historians describe him as calm and meditative. Muhammad was of a deeply religious nature, and had long detested the decadence of his society. It became his habit to meditate from time to time in the Cave of Hira near the summit of Jaba al-Nur, the 'Mountain of Light' near Makkah.
HOW DID HE BECOME A PROPHET AND A MESSENGER OF GOD?
At the age of 40, while engaged in a meditative retreat, Muhammad received his first revelation from God through the Angel Gabriel. This revelation, which continued for twenty-three years, is known as the Qur'an. As soon as be began to recite the words he heard from Gabriel, and to preach the truth which God had revealed to him, he and his small group of followers suffered bitter persecution which grew so fierce that in the year 622 God gave them the command to emigrate. This event, the Hijra, 'migration', in which they left Makkah for the city of Madinah some 260 miles to the north, marks the beginning of the Muslim calendar. After several years, the Prophet and his followers were able to return to Makkah, where they forgave their enemies and established Islam definitively. Before the Prophet died at the age of 63, the greater part of Arabia was Muslim, and within a century of his death Islam had spread to Spain in the West and as far East as China.
HOW DID THE SPREAD OF ISLAM AFFECT THE WORLD?
Among the reasons for the rapid and peaceful spread of Islam was the simplicity of its doctrine-Islam calls for faith in only one God worthy of worship. It also repeatedly instructs man to use his powers of intelligence and observation.
Within a few years, great civilizations and universities were flourishing, for according to the Prophet, 'seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim man and woman'. The synthesis of Eastern and Western ideas and of new thought with old, brought about great advances in medicine, mathematics, physics, astronomy, geography, architecture, art, literature, and history. Many crucial systems such as algebra, the Arabic numerals, and also the concept of the zero (vital to the advancement of mathematics), were transmitted to medieval Europe from Islam.
Sophisticated instruments which were to make possible the European voyages of discovery were developed, including the astrolabe, the quadrant and good navigational maps.
WHAT IS THE QUR'AN?
The Qur'an is a record of the exact words revealed by God through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad. It was memorized by Muhammad and then dictated to his Companions, and written down by scribes, who cross-checked it during his lifetime.
Not one word of its 114 chapters, Suras, has been changed over the centuries, so that the Qur'an is in every detail the unique and miraculous text which was revealed to Muhammad fourteen centuries ago.
WHAT IS THE QUR'AN ABOUT?
The Qur'an, the last revealed Word of God, is the prime source of every Muslim's faith and practice. It deals with all the subjects which concern us as human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship, and law, but its basic theme is the relationship between God and His creatures. At the same time it provides guidelines for a just society, proper human conduct and an equitable economic system.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER SACRED SOURCES?
Yes, the Sunna, the practice and example of the Prophet, is the second authority for Muslims. A Hadith is a reliably transmitted report of what the Prophet said, did, or approved. Belief in the Sunna is part of the Islamic faith.
EXAMPLES OF THE PROPHET'S SAYINGS
The Prophet said:
'God has no mercy on one who has no mercy for others'.
'None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself'.
'He who eats his fill while his neighbor goes without food is not a believer'.
'The truthful and trusty businessman is associated with the prophets, the saints, and the martyrs'.
'Powerful is not he who knocks the other down, indeed powerful is he who controls himself in a fit of anger'.
'God does not judge according to your bodies and appearances but He scans your hearts and looks into your deeds'.
'A man walking along a path felt very thirsty. Reaching a well he descended into it, drank his fill and came up. Then he saw a dog with its tongue hanging out, trying to lick up mud to quench its thirst. The man saw that the dog was feeling the same thirst as he had felt so he went down into the well again and filled his shoe with water and gave the dog a drink. God forgave his sins for this action'. The Prophet was asked: 'Messenger of God, are we rewarded for kindness towards animals?' He said, 'There is a reward for kindness to every living thing'.
From the Hadith collections of Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi and Bayhaqi
HOW DOES ISLAM GUARANTEE HUMAN RIGHTS?
Freedom of conscience is laid down by the Qur'an itself:
There is no compulsion in religion 2:256)
The life and property of all citizens in an Islamic state are considered sacred whether a person is Muslim or not. Racism is incomprehensible to Muslims, for the Qur'an speaks of human equality in the following terms:
made you into nations and tribes, so that you may come to know one another. Truly, the most honored of you in God's sight is the greatest 49:13)
Five Pillars of Islam
The 'Five Pillars' of Islam are the foundation of Muslim life:
Faith or belief in the Oneness of God and the finality of the prophethood of Muhammad;
Establishment of the daily prayers;
Concern for and almsgiving to the needy;
Self-purification through fasting; and
The pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able.
Iman or Faith
"There is none worthy of worship except God and Muhammad is the messenger of God." This declaration of faith is called the Shahadah, a simple formula that all the faithful pronounce. The significance of this declaration is the belief that the only purpose of life is to serve and obey God, and this is achieved through the teachings and practices of the Last Prophet, Muhammad.
Salah or Prayer
Salah is the name for the obligatory prayers that are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshipper and God. There is no hierarchical authority in Islam and there are no priests. Prayers are led by a learned person who knows the Qur'an and is generally chosen by the congregation.
Prayers are said at dawn, mid-day, late-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. These five prescribed prayers contain verses from the Qur'an, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation. Personal supplications, however, can be offered in one's own language and at any time.
Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim may pray almost anywhere, such as in fields, offices, factories and universities. Oftentimes visitors to the Muslim world are struck by the centrality of prayers in daily life.
A translation of the Adan or Call to Prayer is:
God is Great.
God is Great.
God is Great.
God is Great.
I testify that there is none worthy of worship except God.
I testify that there is none worthy of worship except God.
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God.
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God.
Come to prayer!
Come to prayer!
Come to success!
Come to success!
God is Great!
God is Great!
There is none worthy of worship except God.
Zakah
The financial obligation upon Muslims.
An important principle of Islam is that everything belongs to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word zakah means both "purification" and "growth." Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need and for the society in general. Like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth.
Each Muslim calculates his or her own zakah individually. This involves the annual payment of a fortieth of one's capital, excluding such items as primary residence, car and professional tools.
An individual may also give as much as he or she pleases as sadaqa-h, and does so preferably in secret. Although this word can be translated as "voluntary charity" it has a wider meaning.
The Prophet said, "Even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is an act of charity." The Prophet also said: "Charity is a necessity for every Muslim." He was asked: "What if a person has nothing?" The Prophet replied: "He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity." The Companions of the Prophet asked: "What if he is not able to work?" The Prophet said: "He should help the poor and needy." The Companions further asked: "What if he cannot do even that?" The Prophet said: "He should urge others to do good." The Companions said: "What if he lacks that also?" The Prophet said: "He should check himself from doing evil. That is also an act of charity."
Sawm or Fasting
Every year in the month of Ramada-n, all Muslims fast from dawn until sundown--abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations with their spouses.
Those who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women who are menstruating, pregnant or nursing, are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year if they are healthy and able. Children begin to fast (and to observe prayers) from puberty, although many start earlier.
Although fasting is beneficial to health, it is mainly a method of self-purification and self-restraint. By cutting oneself from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person focuses on his or her purpose in life by constantly being aware of the presence of God. God states in the Qur'an: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may learn self-restraint." (Qur'an 2:183)
Hajj or Pilgrimage
The pilgrimage to Makkah (the hajj) is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to do so. Nevertheless, over two million people go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another.
The annual hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that hajj and Ramada-n fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments that strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God.
The rites of the hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include going around the Ka'bah seven times, and going seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa as did Hagar (Hajir, Abraham's wife) during her search for water. The pilgrims later stand together on the wide plains of 'Arafat (a large expanse of desert outside Makkah) and join in prayer for God's forgiveness, in what is often thought as a preview of the Day of Judgment.
The close of the hajj is marked by a festival, the 'Id al Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This and the 'Id al Fitr, a festive day celebrating the end of Ramada-n, are the two holidays of the Islamic calendar.
Faith or belief in the Oneness of God and the finality of the prophethood of Muhammad;
Establishment of the daily prayers;
Concern for and almsgiving to the needy;
Self-purification through fasting; and
The pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able.
Iman or Faith
"There is none worthy of worship except God and Muhammad is the messenger of God." This declaration of faith is called the Shahadah, a simple formula that all the faithful pronounce. The significance of this declaration is the belief that the only purpose of life is to serve and obey God, and this is achieved through the teachings and practices of the Last Prophet, Muhammad.
Salah or Prayer
Salah is the name for the obligatory prayers that are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshipper and God. There is no hierarchical authority in Islam and there are no priests. Prayers are led by a learned person who knows the Qur'an and is generally chosen by the congregation.
Prayers are said at dawn, mid-day, late-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. These five prescribed prayers contain verses from the Qur'an, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation. Personal supplications, however, can be offered in one's own language and at any time.
Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim may pray almost anywhere, such as in fields, offices, factories and universities. Oftentimes visitors to the Muslim world are struck by the centrality of prayers in daily life.
A translation of the Adan or Call to Prayer is:
God is Great.
God is Great.
God is Great.
God is Great.
I testify that there is none worthy of worship except God.
I testify that there is none worthy of worship except God.
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God.
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God.
Come to prayer!
Come to prayer!
Come to success!
Come to success!
God is Great!
God is Great!
There is none worthy of worship except God.
Zakah
The financial obligation upon Muslims.
An important principle of Islam is that everything belongs to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word zakah means both "purification" and "growth." Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need and for the society in general. Like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth.
Each Muslim calculates his or her own zakah individually. This involves the annual payment of a fortieth of one's capital, excluding such items as primary residence, car and professional tools.
An individual may also give as much as he or she pleases as sadaqa-h, and does so preferably in secret. Although this word can be translated as "voluntary charity" it has a wider meaning.
The Prophet said, "Even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is an act of charity." The Prophet also said: "Charity is a necessity for every Muslim." He was asked: "What if a person has nothing?" The Prophet replied: "He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity." The Companions of the Prophet asked: "What if he is not able to work?" The Prophet said: "He should help the poor and needy." The Companions further asked: "What if he cannot do even that?" The Prophet said: "He should urge others to do good." The Companions said: "What if he lacks that also?" The Prophet said: "He should check himself from doing evil. That is also an act of charity."
Sawm or Fasting
Every year in the month of Ramada-n, all Muslims fast from dawn until sundown--abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations with their spouses.
Those who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women who are menstruating, pregnant or nursing, are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year if they are healthy and able. Children begin to fast (and to observe prayers) from puberty, although many start earlier.
Although fasting is beneficial to health, it is mainly a method of self-purification and self-restraint. By cutting oneself from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person focuses on his or her purpose in life by constantly being aware of the presence of God. God states in the Qur'an: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may learn self-restraint." (Qur'an 2:183)
Hajj or Pilgrimage
The pilgrimage to Makkah (the hajj) is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to do so. Nevertheless, over two million people go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another.
The annual hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that hajj and Ramada-n fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments that strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God.
The rites of the hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include going around the Ka'bah seven times, and going seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa as did Hagar (Hajir, Abraham's wife) during her search for water. The pilgrims later stand together on the wide plains of 'Arafat (a large expanse of desert outside Makkah) and join in prayer for God's forgiveness, in what is often thought as a preview of the Day of Judgment.
The close of the hajj is marked by a festival, the 'Id al Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This and the 'Id al Fitr, a festive day celebrating the end of Ramada-n, are the two holidays of the Islamic calendar.
Tribute to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)
Every year we, Muslims, celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in the hope to reflect upon the various challenges which face us as Muslims and the rest of our human family. Such celebrations are truly wonderful and the least we can do to honor such great personality as Prophet Muhammad; a man who had change the course of history forever; a man who had embodied all the attributes of the Supreme Creator of our universe. He taught us how to bring out our humanity above the superficiality of our egoistic self; how to rise above our various human imperfections and to transform them into elements of change and a new hope and a better future.; he asked us to embrace humanity with all of its hidden potentials, the good and the bad, and showed us how to transform the evil traits and inclinations within ourselves and to look at them as mere inevitable realities of what make us human and to utilize them as means to acknowledge our limitations as human beings and hence the need for a positive change in our character.
He took our hands towards the Hands of God in search for hope and tranquility within ourselves. He took the hands of those who wrong themselves and in despair of God’s mercy and who feel stranded at the shore of His Compassion, and he tells them that “do not despair from God’s Mercy and that God forgives all sins-quran”
He introduced a new definition of humanity; a humanity which transcends beyond our race, colors , and our limited ethnic values which divides us into many polarized entities and groups. He restored the dignity of slaves and gave them back their humanity and he restored the sacred status of women and gave it its rightful station in society and he told us that Paradise is honored and humbled to be under the feet of mothers.
He rejuvenated the traditions and teaching of all great prophets of humanity. He gave a different meaning to religion and gave its true definition in respect to life and had given wings to the spirit of religion to free itself from the iron bars of Mosques, churches…; he taught that if you want to feel the breeze of God’s mercy you can feel it through bringing smile to the orphans, to bring hope to the oppressed, to feed the hungry or to honor your parents. He introduced a comprehensive plan of leading a prosperous life from as small as how to brush your teeth and up to how to become righteous leader; and how to embrace all of humanity.
His wisdom was unique and unprecedented in respect to the ocean of wisdom which was already there. Such introduced wisdom pierced the hearts of the most primitive man of the Arabian desert and demolished the arrogance of the most elites of Arabia and the world. His divine wisdom has become a fundamental intellectual principles of all worldly institutions. They are an integral part of the higher intellectual aspect of millions of Muslims and non Muslims. Even those who are considered his cons they stand in salute to his great contributions to the advancements of our human civilizations.
Unfortunately there has been many attempts to distort the beautiful image of Prophet Muhammad which is mostly attributed to the many negative behaviors of Muslims throughout history. Despite all the negative propaganda against Prophet Muhammad which is caused by various reasons, Muslims and non Muslims, however it can not dim the light of Muhammad to shine upon the hearts of those who see the world through their universal eyes, the eyes of the heart; those who look at humanity as colorless and sacred and look at their fellow man as a miracle of the absolute Reality which is unfolding before their eyes and not as mere competition to their existence.
Prophet Muhammad has redefined the notion of leadership when he said “kullukum ra’in wa kullukummas’aoolun ‘an ra’yyatih-everyone is a Shepperd and is responsible for his herd or subjects” He showed us that leadership is not about ruling over the people’s minds and limbs rather is about ruling over the inner core of man; to shift our focus towards the aspect of righteousness vested within us. And he showed that only through this aspect of man, a meaningful leadership is realized.
He also has laid out a great social system through which he offered ways to embraced our mishaps and mistakes as means to draw near towards God, through repentance and seeking forgiveness , and to strive towards expiation of these mishaps and evil conducts through doing righteous actions towards our fellow man and hence he provided a viable social system through which we are enabled to improve our relationship with others and to serve better those whom we are suppose to serve. He brought an awareness of new dimension to man’s reality in respect to his world and his essential relationship to humanity.
He made us aware that we are an important creatures of God and that God is not mere ruthless avenger and destroyer rather he reminded us that God is the most merciful and that His mercy is encompassed all things when he said “God ’s mercy has encompassed everything-Quran”
Furthermore, I would like to point out here that in essence we are engaged in continuous celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s legacy in every given moment of our lives and not necessarily limited to the exact of his day of birth. Honoring our Prophet begins at the inner level of ourselves. We try to emulate his examples of conducts in our dealings with our selves and others on daily basis; our treatment of spouses , children and neighbors. Our desire to establish a healthy bridge of communications with others who share with us humanity. In fact there is no single moment that I could think of in our lives that which prophet Muhammad is not at the center of it.
All humanity are indebted to prophet Muhammad’s knowledge and wisdom which has given our human civilizations the right push to be worthy of itself.
God help us all
He took our hands towards the Hands of God in search for hope and tranquility within ourselves. He took the hands of those who wrong themselves and in despair of God’s mercy and who feel stranded at the shore of His Compassion, and he tells them that “do not despair from God’s Mercy and that God forgives all sins-quran”
He introduced a new definition of humanity; a humanity which transcends beyond our race, colors , and our limited ethnic values which divides us into many polarized entities and groups. He restored the dignity of slaves and gave them back their humanity and he restored the sacred status of women and gave it its rightful station in society and he told us that Paradise is honored and humbled to be under the feet of mothers.
He rejuvenated the traditions and teaching of all great prophets of humanity. He gave a different meaning to religion and gave its true definition in respect to life and had given wings to the spirit of religion to free itself from the iron bars of Mosques, churches…; he taught that if you want to feel the breeze of God’s mercy you can feel it through bringing smile to the orphans, to bring hope to the oppressed, to feed the hungry or to honor your parents. He introduced a comprehensive plan of leading a prosperous life from as small as how to brush your teeth and up to how to become righteous leader; and how to embrace all of humanity.
His wisdom was unique and unprecedented in respect to the ocean of wisdom which was already there. Such introduced wisdom pierced the hearts of the most primitive man of the Arabian desert and demolished the arrogance of the most elites of Arabia and the world. His divine wisdom has become a fundamental intellectual principles of all worldly institutions. They are an integral part of the higher intellectual aspect of millions of Muslims and non Muslims. Even those who are considered his cons they stand in salute to his great contributions to the advancements of our human civilizations.
Unfortunately there has been many attempts to distort the beautiful image of Prophet Muhammad which is mostly attributed to the many negative behaviors of Muslims throughout history. Despite all the negative propaganda against Prophet Muhammad which is caused by various reasons, Muslims and non Muslims, however it can not dim the light of Muhammad to shine upon the hearts of those who see the world through their universal eyes, the eyes of the heart; those who look at humanity as colorless and sacred and look at their fellow man as a miracle of the absolute Reality which is unfolding before their eyes and not as mere competition to their existence.
Prophet Muhammad has redefined the notion of leadership when he said “kullukum ra’in wa kullukummas’aoolun ‘an ra’yyatih-everyone is a Shepperd and is responsible for his herd or subjects” He showed us that leadership is not about ruling over the people’s minds and limbs rather is about ruling over the inner core of man; to shift our focus towards the aspect of righteousness vested within us. And he showed that only through this aspect of man, a meaningful leadership is realized.
He also has laid out a great social system through which he offered ways to embraced our mishaps and mistakes as means to draw near towards God, through repentance and seeking forgiveness , and to strive towards expiation of these mishaps and evil conducts through doing righteous actions towards our fellow man and hence he provided a viable social system through which we are enabled to improve our relationship with others and to serve better those whom we are suppose to serve. He brought an awareness of new dimension to man’s reality in respect to his world and his essential relationship to humanity.
He made us aware that we are an important creatures of God and that God is not mere ruthless avenger and destroyer rather he reminded us that God is the most merciful and that His mercy is encompassed all things when he said “God ’s mercy has encompassed everything-Quran”
Furthermore, I would like to point out here that in essence we are engaged in continuous celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s legacy in every given moment of our lives and not necessarily limited to the exact of his day of birth. Honoring our Prophet begins at the inner level of ourselves. We try to emulate his examples of conducts in our dealings with our selves and others on daily basis; our treatment of spouses , children and neighbors. Our desire to establish a healthy bridge of communications with others who share with us humanity. In fact there is no single moment that I could think of in our lives that which prophet Muhammad is not at the center of it.
All humanity are indebted to prophet Muhammad’s knowledge and wisdom which has given our human civilizations the right push to be worthy of itself.
God help us all
Mercy For All Creatures
Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) was kind to all people and asked his followers to be the same. He was especially kind to orphans and asked his companions to be kind to them. Thauban reported Allah's Messenger as saying, "Only supplication averts the decree (of fate), only kindness prolongs life, and a man is deprived of provision for a fault he has committed."
Ibn Omar reported Allah's Messenger as saying, "A Muslim is a Muslim's brother; he does not wrong him. If anyone cares for his brother's need, Allah will take care of his need; if anyone relieves his brother's anxiety, Allah will remove from him one of his anxieties on the Day of Resurrection; and if anyone conceals a Muslim's secrets, Allah will conceal his secrets on the Day of Resurrection."
Abu Hurairah reported Allah's Messenger as saying, 'The best house among the Muslims is one where an orphan is well treated, and the worst house among the Muslims is one where an orphan is badly treated."
Abu Omamah reported Allah's Messenger as saying, "If anyone caresses an orphan by moving his fingers in his hair, doing so only for God's sake, he will have blessings for every hair over which his hand passes and if anyone treats well ail orphan girl or boy under his care, he and I shall be like these two in Paradise," putting two of his fingers together.
Abu Hurairah reported Allah's Messenger as saying, He who strives to serve a widow and a poor person is like the one who strives in Allah's way." He also reported that when a man complained to the Messenger of Allah of being hardhearted he said, "Show affection to the orphans and feed the poor."
Mercy for Enemies & Unbelievers
Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) treated everybody, friend or foe, with kindness and taught his companions to do likewise. It is reported by Abu Basra Ghifari that when he was a non-believer he came to Madinah and stayed as a guest of the Messenger of Allah. He drank milk from all his goats at night but the Prophet did not say a word. That night he and all his family slept hungry.
A similar incident is reported by Abu Hurairah. One night a non-believer stayed as a guest of the Noble Prophet. One by one, he drank milk of all the seven goats, but the Prophet did not show any sign of anger or dislike towards him. Perhaps due to the Prophet's behaviour, next morning, the man embraced Islam and was satisfied with the milk of only one goat.
Abu Hurairah's mother, who lived with him in Madinah was a non-believer. She used to abuse the Noble Prophet, about which Abu Hurairah complained to him, but he prayed for her. Bilal was very close to Prophet Muhammad and managed his household. One day an unbeliever called him a Negro and said that he would not rest until he had made him tend his goats for him. Prophet Muhammad heard this conversation but did not say anything to the unbeliever.
The problem of hypocrites in Madinah was a great test for the Prophet and his companions, but he always treated them kindly and with great consideration. Abdullah Ibn Obayy and his followers embraced Islam, but at heart they were unbelievers and never really accepted Islam. Their behaviour at the time of the
Battle of Uhud and on many other occasions was damaging to the cause of Islam, but Prophet Muhammad always treated them with kindness. When Abdullah Ibn Obayy died, Prophet Muhammad gave his cloak for his shroud.
Jews were extremely hostile to Prophet Muhammad and his mission, but he was always kind to them. Once he went to the house of a Jew to visit his sick son. He invited the boy to Islam but the boy looked towards his father for his permission. His father gave him permission and the boy embraced Islam. Once when the funeral of a Jew was passing, the Prophet stood up as a mark of respect for the dead. Once a Jew complained to him that a Muslim had slapped him. He called that Muslim at once and reprimanded him.
In the valley of Hudaibiyah while Prophet Muhammad was saying the morning prayer with his companions, seventy or eighty unbelievers came down quietly from the mountain of Taneem in order to kill the Muslims during prayer. They were caught and brought before him. He treated them well and released them all.
In fact, he treated all people with kindness under all circumstances and never showed any ill-will towards anyone or ill-treated anyone. Makhul reported Allah's Messenger as saying, "The believers are gentle and kind like a pliant camel which, when guided, lets itself be guided and when made to sit, even on stones, does so." Mu'aadh said, "The last injunction Allah's Messenger gave him when he put his foot in the stirrup was. "Treat people well, O Muadh."
And Those who strive in Our ( Cause ) - We will certainly guide them to Our PATHS: For verily Allah is with those who do right. (Qur'an 29:69)
"Oh Allah, I seek refuge in You lest I misguide others, or I am misguided by others, lest I cause others to err or I am caused to err, lest I abuse others or be abused, and lest I behave foolishly or meet with the foolishness of others". (Abu-Dawud, Ibn Majah, Nasa'i, At-Termithi see also Al-Albani, Sahih At-Tirmithi 3/152 and Sahih Ibn Majah 2/336)
Ibn Omar reported Allah's Messenger as saying, "A Muslim is a Muslim's brother; he does not wrong him. If anyone cares for his brother's need, Allah will take care of his need; if anyone relieves his brother's anxiety, Allah will remove from him one of his anxieties on the Day of Resurrection; and if anyone conceals a Muslim's secrets, Allah will conceal his secrets on the Day of Resurrection."
Abu Hurairah reported Allah's Messenger as saying, 'The best house among the Muslims is one where an orphan is well treated, and the worst house among the Muslims is one where an orphan is badly treated."
Abu Omamah reported Allah's Messenger as saying, "If anyone caresses an orphan by moving his fingers in his hair, doing so only for God's sake, he will have blessings for every hair over which his hand passes and if anyone treats well ail orphan girl or boy under his care, he and I shall be like these two in Paradise," putting two of his fingers together.
Abu Hurairah reported Allah's Messenger as saying, He who strives to serve a widow and a poor person is like the one who strives in Allah's way." He also reported that when a man complained to the Messenger of Allah of being hardhearted he said, "Show affection to the orphans and feed the poor."
Mercy for Enemies & Unbelievers
Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) treated everybody, friend or foe, with kindness and taught his companions to do likewise. It is reported by Abu Basra Ghifari that when he was a non-believer he came to Madinah and stayed as a guest of the Messenger of Allah. He drank milk from all his goats at night but the Prophet did not say a word. That night he and all his family slept hungry.
A similar incident is reported by Abu Hurairah. One night a non-believer stayed as a guest of the Noble Prophet. One by one, he drank milk of all the seven goats, but the Prophet did not show any sign of anger or dislike towards him. Perhaps due to the Prophet's behaviour, next morning, the man embraced Islam and was satisfied with the milk of only one goat.
Abu Hurairah's mother, who lived with him in Madinah was a non-believer. She used to abuse the Noble Prophet, about which Abu Hurairah complained to him, but he prayed for her. Bilal was very close to Prophet Muhammad and managed his household. One day an unbeliever called him a Negro and said that he would not rest until he had made him tend his goats for him. Prophet Muhammad heard this conversation but did not say anything to the unbeliever.
The problem of hypocrites in Madinah was a great test for the Prophet and his companions, but he always treated them kindly and with great consideration. Abdullah Ibn Obayy and his followers embraced Islam, but at heart they were unbelievers and never really accepted Islam. Their behaviour at the time of the
Battle of Uhud and on many other occasions was damaging to the cause of Islam, but Prophet Muhammad always treated them with kindness. When Abdullah Ibn Obayy died, Prophet Muhammad gave his cloak for his shroud.
Jews were extremely hostile to Prophet Muhammad and his mission, but he was always kind to them. Once he went to the house of a Jew to visit his sick son. He invited the boy to Islam but the boy looked towards his father for his permission. His father gave him permission and the boy embraced Islam. Once when the funeral of a Jew was passing, the Prophet stood up as a mark of respect for the dead. Once a Jew complained to him that a Muslim had slapped him. He called that Muslim at once and reprimanded him.
In the valley of Hudaibiyah while Prophet Muhammad was saying the morning prayer with his companions, seventy or eighty unbelievers came down quietly from the mountain of Taneem in order to kill the Muslims during prayer. They were caught and brought before him. He treated them well and released them all.
In fact, he treated all people with kindness under all circumstances and never showed any ill-will towards anyone or ill-treated anyone. Makhul reported Allah's Messenger as saying, "The believers are gentle and kind like a pliant camel which, when guided, lets itself be guided and when made to sit, even on stones, does so." Mu'aadh said, "The last injunction Allah's Messenger gave him when he put his foot in the stirrup was. "Treat people well, O Muadh."
And Those who strive in Our ( Cause ) - We will certainly guide them to Our PATHS: For verily Allah is with those who do right. (Qur'an 29:69)
"Oh Allah, I seek refuge in You lest I misguide others, or I am misguided by others, lest I cause others to err or I am caused to err, lest I abuse others or be abused, and lest I behave foolishly or meet with the foolishness of others". (Abu-Dawud, Ibn Majah, Nasa'i, At-Termithi see also Al-Albani, Sahih At-Tirmithi 3/152 and Sahih Ibn Majah 2/336)
TEARS OF PHROPHET MUHAMMAD (PBUH)
> >Suddenly, there was a person who said salaam
> >
> >
> >
> >"May I come in?" he asked.
> >
> >
> >
> >But Fatimah did not allow him to enter the room.
> >
> >
> >
> >"I'm sorry, my father is ill," said Fatimah, and turned back and closed the
> >door.
> >
> >
> >
> >She went back to her father who had opened his eyes and he asked Fatimah,
> >"Who was he, my daughter?"
> >
> >
> >
> >"I don't know, my father. It's the first time I'm seeing him," Fatimah said
> >gently.
> >
> >
> >
> >Then, Rasulullah (SAW) looked at his daughter with a trembled look, as if
> >he wanted to reminisce about every part of his daughter's face.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Know one thing! He is who erases the temporary pleasure; he is who
> >separates the companionship in
> >the world. He is the angel of death," said Rasulullah (SAW).
> >
> >
> >
> >Fatimah bore the bomb of her cry.
> >
> >
> >
> >The death angel came toward him, but Rasulullah (SAW) asked why Jibril did
> >not come along with him.
> >
> >
> >
> >Then, Jibril was called. Jibril was ready in the sky to welcome the soul of
> >Habibullah and the leader of the earth.
> >
> >
> >
> >"O Jibril, explain to me about my rights in front of ALLAH?" Rasulullah
> >(SAW) asked with a weak voice.
> >
> >
> >
> >"The doors of the sky have opened; the angels are waiting for your soul."
> >
> >
> >
> >"All jannats are open widely waiting for you," Jibril said. But, in fact,
> >all that did not make Rasulullah (SAW) relieved. His eyes were still full
> >of worry.
> >
> >
> >
> >"You are not happy to hear this news?" asked Jibril.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Tell me
> >about the destiny of my people in the future?"
> >
> >
> >
> >"Don't worry, o Rasul ALLAH. I heard ALLAH told me: 'I make jannat haram
> >for everyone, except the people of Muhammad" Jibril said.
> >
> >
> >
> >It became closer and closer, the time for Malaekat Izrail to do his work.
> >Slowly, Rasulullah's (SAW) soul was pulled. It seemed that the body of
> >Rasulullah (SAW) was full of sweat; the nerves of his neck became tight.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Jibril, how pain this sakaratul maut is!"
> >
> >
> >
> >Rasulullah (SAW) uttered a groan slowly. Fatimah closed her eyes, Ali sat
> >beside her bow deeply and Jibril turned his face back.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Am I repugnant to you that you turn your face back o Jibril?"
> >
> >Rasulullah (SAW) asked to the Deliverer of Wahyu.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Who is the one who could see the Habibullah in his sakaratul maut,"
> >Jibril said.
> >
> >
> >
> >Not for a while, Rasulullah (SAW) uttered a groan because of unbearable
> >pain.
> >
> >
> >
> >"O ALLAH, how greatest is this sakaratul maut. Give me all these pains,
> >don't to my people."
> >
> >
> >
> >The body of Rasulullah (SAW) became cold, his feet and chest did not move
> >anymore.
> >
> >
> >
> >His lips vibrated as if he wanted to say something, Ali took his ear close
> >to Rasulullah (SAW).
> >
> >
> >
> >"Uushiikum bis shalati, wa maa malakat aimanuku? take care the shalat and
> >take care the weak people among you."
> >
> >
> >
> >Outside the room, there were cries shouted each other, sahabat held each
> >other. Fatimah closed her face with her hands and, again, Ali took his ear
> >close to Rasulullah's (SAW) mouth which became bluish.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Ummatii, ummatii, ummatii?" ? "My people, my people, my
> >people."
> >
> >
> >
> >And the life of the noble man ended.
> >
> >
> >
> >Could we love each other like him? Allahumma sholli 'ala Muhammad wa baarik
> >wa salim 'alaihi.
> >
> >
> >
> >How deep is Rasulullah's (SAW) love to us.
Related Site: Life of Muhammad (PBUH)
> >
> >
> >
> >"May I come in?" he asked.
> >
> >
> >
> >But Fatimah did not allow him to enter the room.
> >
> >
> >
> >"I'm sorry, my father is ill," said Fatimah, and turned back and closed the
> >door.
> >
> >
> >
> >She went back to her father who had opened his eyes and he asked Fatimah,
> >"Who was he, my daughter?"
> >
> >
> >
> >"I don't know, my father. It's the first time I'm seeing him," Fatimah said
> >gently.
> >
> >
> >
> >Then, Rasulullah (SAW) looked at his daughter with a trembled look, as if
> >he wanted to reminisce about every part of his daughter's face.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Know one thing! He is who erases the temporary pleasure; he is who
> >separates the companionship in
> >the world. He is the angel of death," said Rasulullah (SAW).
> >
> >
> >
> >Fatimah bore the bomb of her cry.
> >
> >
> >
> >The death angel came toward him, but Rasulullah (SAW) asked why Jibril did
> >not come along with him.
> >
> >
> >
> >Then, Jibril was called. Jibril was ready in the sky to welcome the soul of
> >Habibullah and the leader of the earth.
> >
> >
> >
> >"O Jibril, explain to me about my rights in front of ALLAH?" Rasulullah
> >(SAW) asked with a weak voice.
> >
> >
> >
> >"The doors of the sky have opened; the angels are waiting for your soul."
> >
> >
> >
> >"All jannats are open widely waiting for you," Jibril said. But, in fact,
> >all that did not make Rasulullah (SAW) relieved. His eyes were still full
> >of worry.
> >
> >
> >
> >"You are not happy to hear this news?" asked Jibril.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Tell me
> >about the destiny of my people in the future?"
> >
> >
> >
> >"Don't worry, o Rasul ALLAH. I heard ALLAH told me: 'I make jannat haram
> >for everyone, except the people of Muhammad" Jibril said.
> >
> >
> >
> >It became closer and closer, the time for Malaekat Izrail to do his work.
> >Slowly, Rasulullah's (SAW) soul was pulled. It seemed that the body of
> >Rasulullah (SAW) was full of sweat; the nerves of his neck became tight.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Jibril, how pain this sakaratul maut is!"
> >
> >
> >
> >Rasulullah (SAW) uttered a groan slowly. Fatimah closed her eyes, Ali sat
> >beside her bow deeply and Jibril turned his face back.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Am I repugnant to you that you turn your face back o Jibril?"
> >
> >Rasulullah (SAW) asked to the Deliverer of Wahyu.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Who is the one who could see the Habibullah in his sakaratul maut,"
> >Jibril said.
> >
> >
> >
> >Not for a while, Rasulullah (SAW) uttered a groan because of unbearable
> >pain.
> >
> >
> >
> >"O ALLAH, how greatest is this sakaratul maut. Give me all these pains,
> >don't to my people."
> >
> >
> >
> >The body of Rasulullah (SAW) became cold, his feet and chest did not move
> >anymore.
> >
> >
> >
> >His lips vibrated as if he wanted to say something, Ali took his ear close
> >to Rasulullah (SAW).
> >
> >
> >
> >"Uushiikum bis shalati, wa maa malakat aimanuku? take care the shalat and
> >take care the weak people among you."
> >
> >
> >
> >Outside the room, there were cries shouted each other, sahabat held each
> >other. Fatimah closed her face with her hands and, again, Ali took his ear
> >close to Rasulullah's (SAW) mouth which became bluish.
> >
> >
> >
> >"Ummatii, ummatii, ummatii?" ? "My people, my people, my
> >people."
> >
> >
> >
> >And the life of the noble man ended.
> >
> >
> >
> >Could we love each other like him? Allahumma sholli 'ala Muhammad wa baarik
> >wa salim 'alaihi.
> >
> >
> >
> >How deep is Rasulullah's (SAW) love to us.
Related Site: Life of Muhammad (PBUH)
About Holy Quran
Quran is the best book from God towards mankind. Why Quran is the Best book ? Well, because it is the last book of God provided to mankind through the Last Prophet (Mohammad (Peace Be Upon Him)).
There is no book like Quran because it is in its original form. Even after fifteen hundred years Quran is still in its original form. Quran was written, revised and approved by Prophet Mohammad (P.B.U.H) in his lifetime. In this world there is no data or information more authentic then Quran Kareem. Unlike other religious books, in Quran every word and sentence is from God. How can one be so sure? Well look at each sentence with open heart and open mind and see what is written. You will see God is addressing Mohammad (P.B.U.H) or mankind.
You won't find any statement like " person A was there and he was saying this or that. " or " I was there and I say person A was doing this or that". In other religions, every two years (more or less), there is a revised addition, after three more years there is another revise addition. What does it tell you?
Yes, it tells you that any book that is changed every one or two years can't be perfect and God is perfect. You will find this perfection in only and only one book, Quran Majeed. Perfect God gave Muslims Perfect Book through Perfect Messenger.
About Quran:
There are thirty sections (chapters) in Quran.
First verses of Quran were reveled to Prophet Mohammad (P.B.U.H) when he was forty years old.
First Verses were reveled to Prophet Mohammad (P.B.U.H) in Macca.
Quran Was reveled and completed in twenty three years.
It is the right of Quran on each Muslim that every Muslim should read and finish Quran Majeed (thirty chapters) latest once a years. In Quran Majeed some stories and tales of other Messengers are same as New Testament and Old Testament but if you see any difference in these stories, you know one book has not been changed. In other books people omit and add things every year or so. These books are not authentic because people make changes according to the time and needs of people but Quran had not been changed. God doesn't like when people twist, bent and change the rule of Mighty God to fulfill their needs and desires. God is creator of all creatures and he wants us to adjusts our need by keeping in mind what is our prime duty.
God demands that followers of Islam should compromise and make changes in their plans and life instead of making changes in Quran "the word of God".
If a King or a president of a country wants people to follow the rules of that country. If they don't follow or change the rule of that country, what will happen to them but they gives to fulfill
In programming language, we use " if, then, else " kind of rule. If you follow the rules of God, then you go to Haven, else hellfire.
There is no book like Quran because it is in its original form. Even after fifteen hundred years Quran is still in its original form. Quran was written, revised and approved by Prophet Mohammad (P.B.U.H) in his lifetime. In this world there is no data or information more authentic then Quran Kareem. Unlike other religious books, in Quran every word and sentence is from God. How can one be so sure? Well look at each sentence with open heart and open mind and see what is written. You will see God is addressing Mohammad (P.B.U.H) or mankind.
You won't find any statement like " person A was there and he was saying this or that. " or " I was there and I say person A was doing this or that". In other religions, every two years (more or less), there is a revised addition, after three more years there is another revise addition. What does it tell you?
Yes, it tells you that any book that is changed every one or two years can't be perfect and God is perfect. You will find this perfection in only and only one book, Quran Majeed. Perfect God gave Muslims Perfect Book through Perfect Messenger.
About Quran:
There are thirty sections (chapters) in Quran.
First verses of Quran were reveled to Prophet Mohammad (P.B.U.H) when he was forty years old.
First Verses were reveled to Prophet Mohammad (P.B.U.H) in Macca.
Quran Was reveled and completed in twenty three years.
It is the right of Quran on each Muslim that every Muslim should read and finish Quran Majeed (thirty chapters) latest once a years. In Quran Majeed some stories and tales of other Messengers are same as New Testament and Old Testament but if you see any difference in these stories, you know one book has not been changed. In other books people omit and add things every year or so. These books are not authentic because people make changes according to the time and needs of people but Quran had not been changed. God doesn't like when people twist, bent and change the rule of Mighty God to fulfill their needs and desires. God is creator of all creatures and he wants us to adjusts our need by keeping in mind what is our prime duty.
God demands that followers of Islam should compromise and make changes in their plans and life instead of making changes in Quran "the word of God".
If a King or a president of a country wants people to follow the rules of that country. If they don't follow or change the rule of that country, what will happen to them but they gives to fulfill
In programming language, we use " if, then, else " kind of rule. If you follow the rules of God, then you go to Haven, else hellfire.
Link Exchange with Islamic Sites
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Contact for Advertisment or Link Exchange
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If anyone interested for Link Exchange, Then Please add my link in your page and reply me your link information.
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addmypage{at}yahoo{dot}com
If anyone interested for Link Exchange, Then Please add my link in your page and reply me your link information.
My Link:
Title: All about Islam
URL: http://aboutislamandmuslims.blogspot.com/
The Prophet Muhammad's(PBUH) Last Sermon
The Prophet Muhammad's(PBUH) Last Sermon
After praising & thanking GOD he said:
"O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether, after this year, I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefor listen to what I am saying to you very carefully & TAKE THESE WORDS TO THOSE WHO COULD NOT BE PRESENT HERE TODAY.
O people, just as you regard this month, this city as sacred, so regard the life & property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your LORD, and that HE will indeed reckon your deeds. ALLAH has forbidden you to take usury(Interest), therefor all Interest obligation shall henceforth be waived. Your capital, however, is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer inequity.
Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.
O people it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your waives only under ALLAH's trust & with His permission. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed & clothed in kindness. Do treat your women well & be kind to them for they are your partners & committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friendship with any one of whom you do not approve, as well as never to be unchaste.
O people, listen to me earnest, worship your LORD, say your five daily prayers, fast during the month of Ramadan, & give your wealth to Zakat(Charity). Perform Hajj if you can afford to.
All mankind are from Adam & Eve, an Arab has no Superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has superiority over an Arab;ALSO a white has no superiority over a black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety & good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to another Muslim & that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood.Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow muslim unless it was given freely & willingly. Do not therefor, do unjustice to yourselves.
Remember, one day you will appear before the GOD & answer for your deeds. So beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.
O people, NO PROPHET OR APOSTLE WILL COME AFTER ME & NO FAITH WILL BE BORN. Reason well, therefor, O people, understand words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, The QURAN & my examples the Sunnah & if you follow these you will never go astray.
All about Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): Life of Muhammad (PBUH)
Tolerance in Islam
Tolerance
Written by Sheikh Salman al-Oadah
Written by Sheikh Salman al-Oadah
Tolerance is a beautiful word in every language and according to every culture. On a personal level, the word is often used to convey the idea of pardoning someone who does something wrong to you, transgresses against you, or differs with you in an inappropriate manner. According to this understanding, it is a great moral value. Its exercise is a moral victory for the spirit of goodness and decency over the spirit of evil that a person might be impelled to give in to.
Tolerance is the basis for the conduct that should govern people's dealings with one another. A person who persistently rejects tolerance is a person who insists upon causing harm, to himself as well as to others.
Religious Tolerance
We often hear the word tolerance used in the context of interactions between different faiths. In this respect, we find that the Prophet of Islam (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever wrongs someone with whom we have a covenant, or renounces him, or burdens him with more than he can bear, or takes anything from him without his cheerful consent – I will be his disputant on the Day of Judgment." [Sunan Abî Dâwûd]
It is a well-known fact of history that members of other faiths – including Jews, Christians, Magians, and Sabians – lived under Islamic rule for many centuries with their honor intact. Their rights and pledges were upheld. This can be compared to the way that King Ferdinand treated the Muslims of Spain when he wrested power from the Muslims who had ruled there for centuries. During the Spanish Inquisition, he expelled or killed the Muslims living under his rule.
The Muslims, throughout their history, did not treat then non-Muslims in that way, though they were in full power over vast expanses of land for over a thousand years. The non-Muslims always lived alongside the Muslims and were free to practice their faith. What theory can be better than what was actually put into practice by Islam for this long stretch of time?
Allah says: "Tell those who believe, to forgive those who do not look forward to the Days of Allah: It is for Him to recompense (for good or ill) each People according to what they have earned." [Sûrah al-Jâthiyah: 14] The Muslims here are instructed to forgive the polytheists who do not look forward to the meeting with their Lord. Allah also says: "Then bear with them (O Muhammad) and say: 'Peace'. They will come to know." [Sûrah al-Zukhruf: 89] "
We did not create the heavens, the earth, and all between them, except for just ends. And the Hour is surely coming. So overlook (their faults) with gracious forgiveness." [Sûrah al-Hijr: 85]
"Keep to forgiveness and enjoin kindness, and turn away from those who are ignorant." [Sûrah al-A`râf: 199]
"And the servants of (Allah) Most Gracious are those who walk on the earth in humility, and when the ignorant address them, they say, 'Peace!'" [Sûrah al-Furqân: 63]
The commandments given in these verses of the Qur'ân are decisive. They show us that religious tolerance is an essential principle of Islam. It is a moral value set forth in the Islamic teachings and enjoined upon the Muslims long before the philosophy of tolerance entered into the discourse of modern Western thought.
The Prophet's Conduct
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) showed tolerance not only towards non-Muslims but also towards the hypocrites whose hypocrisy was blatant and manifest, and whose enmity for Islam was clear. They were an enemy from within the Muslim community. Yet, the Prophet (peace be upon him) pardoned Abû Salûl, one of the leaders of the hypocrites, numerous times. He even visited him when he fell ill. When abû Salûl died, the Prophet (peace be upon him) went down to his grave and dressed him in his own shirt. This was the man who openly abused the Prophet (peace be upon him) by scandalizing his family.
When `Umar saw the Prophet's conduct, he said: "Are you going to pray his funeral prayer for this man when he did all those things?"
The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied: "O `Umar, I was given a choice and have chosen. (Allah) says: 'Seek forgiveness for them or refrain from doing so. If you beseech their forgiveness seventy times, Allah will never forgive them.' Yet, if I knew that if I were to do so more than seventy times that he would be forgiven, then I would do so." [Sahîh al-Bukhârî]
Though permission for the Prophet (peace be upon him) to offer prayers for these known hypocrites was later repealed by the verse: "And never (O Muhammad) pray for one of them who dies, nor stand by his grave." [Sûrah al-Tawbah: 84] – the principle of tolerance embodied in his conduct remains.
Once a man came upon the Prophet (peace be upon him) with his sword raised, ready to strike. He sneered: "Who can stop me from killing you now, Muhammad?" Then the sword fell from his hand.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) picked up the sword, and said: "And now, who can stop me?" However, he did not harm the man. Instead, he then took the man to his Companions and had him swear a covenant neither to fight against the Prophet nor join with those who fight against him. The clemency and tolerance exhibited by the Prophet (peace be upon him) won the man's heart.
Cultivating a Tolerant Heart
If you want to know the true value of tolerance and clemency, think about all the wrongs that you have committed towards others. Think about how desperately you need Allah to pardon you.
Allah says: "Let them forgive and overlook. Do you not wish that Allah should forgive you?" [Sûrah al-Nûr: 22]
This verse was revealed on the occasion where Abû Bakr swore not to provide for Mustah b. Athâthah due to Mustah's involvement in slandering the Prophet's family.
Muslim scholars and preachers need to promote this great Islamic principle. Tolerance needs to be promoted and put into practice by all members of society, by people in all walks of life. It needs to be inculcated in those who govern and those who are governed. It needs to be addressed in sermons, in the classroom, and in public lectures. Muslim scholars and preachers, in their conduct, should be living examples of tolerance. They need to inculcate this noble trait in those who listen to them.
We need to speak about tolerance with those who share our views and interests as well as with those who disagree with us and criticize us. We need to show tolerance to them.
Each of us needs to learn how to show some clemency to his or her self. Some people are so distraught by the errors that they have made in the past that they carry the burden of their mistakes and never let go of it. They need to learn to let that burden go and put their past mistakes behind them. Likewise, they need to do the same for others. Learn to give, in charity, some of your dignity to those who wrong you. You will find that your heart will grow for it. You will feel happier. You will sigh with relief and not be so stricken by what they say.
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