Gengems eighth issue

Special Tips For A Blissful Married Life

A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE

RAMADAAN 1429

EIGHTH ISSUE

Woman of substance...

IN THIS ISSUE:

Pious,pure and perfect women Civilized woman!!

An Islamic perspective

Keys to a locked heart Keep Fit...

zul-hijjah Ramadaan Let’s see what’s on offer this month

An annual spiritual workshop

YOUMUL-ARAFAH THE DAY RELIGION WAS PERFECTED AND ALLAH’S FAVOUR COMPLETED

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. WELCOME-------------------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 3 2. VIRTUES OF THE QUR’AAN--------------------------------------------- PAGE 4 3. WINNER’S PAGE------------------------------------------------------------ PAGE 5 4. ALLAH’S MERCY SEARCHING----------------------------------------- PAGE 6 5. REVIVE A SUNNAH--------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 7 6. MUSLIMS LIKE ONE BODY---------------------------------------------- PAGE 7 7. NEXT TO THE ONE YOU LOVE----------------------------------------- PAGE 8 8. TRICKY TAWEEZ / NEGATIVE THINKING--------------------------- PAGE9 9. HEALTH CORNER--------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 10 10. ETIQUETTE------------------------------------------------------------------ PAGE 11 11. EATING HEALTHY---------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 12 12. IMPORTANCE OF HALAAL FOODS----------------------------------- PAGE 13 13. YOMUL ARAFAH ------------------------------------------------------------ PAGE 14 14. UMAR R.A.’S CHOICE----------------------------------------------------- PAGE 15 15. TEN DAYS OF ZULHIJJAH----------------------------------------------- PAGE 16 16. INGREDIENTS FOR A HAPPY MARRIAGE------------------------- PAGE 17 17. VIRTUES OF THE KA’BAA------------------------------------------------ PAGE 18 18. VIRTUES OF MAKKAH MUKARRAMAH------------------------------ PAGE 19 19. CHILDREN’S CORNER--------------------------------------------------- PAGE 20-21 20. MY ROLE MODEL----------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 22 21. WHY I EMBRACED ISLAM----------------------------------------------- PAGE 23 22. UPBRINGING---------------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 24-25 23. TRAVELING WITH THE PASSPORT OF LOVE--------------------- PAGE 26 24..MY CLOTHES FELL-------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 27 25. PROBLEM PAGE------------------------------------------------------------ PAGE 28 26. ADVERT----------------------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 29 27. BIOGRAPHY------------------------------------------------------------------ PAGE 30 28. NEIGHBOURHOOD OF BAITULLAH---------------------------------- PAGE 31 29. VIRTUES OF MAQAME EBRAHIM-------------------------------------------------------------PAGE 31 30. LOOKING FOR A SPOUSE----------------------------------------------- PAGE 32 31. WA AASHIRU HUNNA BIL MA’ROOF--------------------------------- PAGE 33 32. MY DEAR BABY------------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 34 33. PRAISE YOUR WIFE------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 35 34. GENUINE GEMS REPORT----------------------------------------------- PAGE 36 35. HIGHLIGHTS----------------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 37 36. WHY WOMEN CRY--------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 39 37. NEW BRAND OF BEAUTY PRODUCTS----------------------------- PAGE 39 38. VIRTUES OF SALAAT----------------------------------------------------- PAGE 40 39. CONCENTRATION IN SALAAH----------------------------------------- PAGE 41 40. KEYS FOR A LOCKED HEART----------------------------------------- PAGE43 41. DRAWING COMPETITION----------------------------------------------- PAGE 44 42. JOKES-------------------------------------------------------------------------- PAGE 45 43. TITBITS------------------------------------------------------------------------ PAGE 46 The fast is for Me and I am its reward [Hadith Qudsi] O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed upon you as it was prescribed on those before you so that you may learn selfrestraint [2:183]

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AHLAN-WASAHLAN All praises are due to Allah who has again blessed us with an opportunity to benefit from the month of Ramadan. Peace and blessings be upon the final messenger Muhammad Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam forever and ever.

The blessed month of Ramadan along with its dazzling days and its fragrant nights will soon come to an end. Ramadan overflows with‌ the sweetness of the frequent recitation of the Qur'aan, awe-inspiring taqwa, unremitting patience and the downpour of Allah's mercy & forgiveness. However the question is how much of this enthusiasm of continuing with the good deeds will remain after the month has gone?

We have to make sure that we graduate from this spiritual workshop with the certificate of “Taqwa.� During this month we have to inculcate the patience deep into our character so we can apply it to our daily lives even after the month has passed. We ought to achieve steadfastness in obedience and persistence in refraining from breaking Allah's commands. We need to struggle against our souls and base desires to such an extent that in due course we gain victory over them.

Will we leave this spiritual workshop experiencing a change in the condition of our hearts?

Ramadan is a chance for the believers to update their Imaan. It is a spiritual class to attain one's stipulation for the rest of the year and to sharpen one's tenacity. Thus every believer should display signs of gratitude to Allah by emerging from this class with the zeal of obedience and submission. Our pious predecessors wept for six months after the blessed month of Ramadan had ended, begging Allah for acceptance. On the contrary, we return to the boulevard of sins, after being blessed with the conformity and intimate liaison with Allah.

From amongst the signs of the acceptance of deeds is that one is in a better state than he had been and he progresses towards obedience.

Thus when the fasting of Ramadan ends, we can opt for the voluntary fasting. To begin with we can fast for the six days of Shawwal and thereafter try to fast three days in the middle of every month. When the enchanting Taraaweeh salaah comes to an end, then how about standing in prayer for the tahajjud salaah? Reciting the Qur'aan is not only limited to Ramadan, hence let us try to read and contemplate upon it daily.

Wuhayb Ibnul Ward (R.A.) a sahabi, once passed by some people who were indulged in merrymaking on the day of Eid. He turned to them and said, 'Isn't it strange, if Allah has accepted your fast then this is definitely not the way to show gratitude? Moreover if Allah has not accepted your fasting then this is certainly not the conduct of those who are fearful.'

In the end, I pray to Allah that He accepts our fasts, our standing in prayer and all the righteous acts performed during this month and forgives us for all the negligence. I pray to Allah to bless us with many such opportunities to witness the month of Ramadan hopeful that our condition improves after each one.

Jazakumullah Sister Z. Motala

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VIRTUES OF THE HOLY QUR’AAN Hazrat Uthman (Radiallahu Anhu) narrates that the merciful Nabi (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said: “The best person from you is the one who learns the noble Qur'aan and teaches it to others.”

All praise is due to Allah, who created man, gave him the gift of expression and revealed for him the Holy Qur'aan, which is a source of advice, healing, guidance and mercy for those who have faith.

Today Qur'aan Kareem is the only religious book that remains unchanged word for word over the years.

Allah Taala says in the Qur'aan, “Inna Nahnu Nazzalnaz Zikr Wa inna lahu Lahaafizun” (Verily we, it is we who have sent down the zikr (i.e. the Qur'aan) and surely we will guard it (from corruption).)

This incident took place in 1987, near a town called Virginia. The people of that community had appointed a special day wherein various well-known personalities from different religious backgrounds met at a specific place and discussed their respective religion. However, there was no one representing Islam and therefore the facts about Islam remained obscured from them. Hence, after due consideration it was decided that a learned scholar of Islam should be selected to go and represent Islam.

Subsequently in a brief meeting the Muslims of the community agreed that Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.was the most suitable person to represent Islam.

Hazratjee D.B. agreed to fulfill the need of the hour. Eminent people from every religious background attended the convention such as the Rabbi who represented the Jews, the Hindu priest and the Christian Pastor etc.

If a misunderstanding ever arose about Islam, Hazratjee D.B.would not only clarify it but shed some light on the subject as well.

A Jewish Rabbi who sat behind Hazratjee D.B. continually looked at him with a glimmer of curiosity and inhibited admiration. Perhaps he failed to comprehend a Muslim in a garb conforming to the tradition of Prophet Musa (A.S.) ,that is the long robe together with the turban and the Asaa (walking stick). One day being unable to contain himself any longer, the Rabbi remarked, “You always come with a different respective look.” (Subhanallah! Just imagine the degree of awe and magnificence reflecting from Hazratjee D.B.'s personality that even a non-Muslim could feel the magnetism of his Imaan.)

One day, after the gathering Hazratjee D.B. suggested that in the next meeting, every person representing his respective religion should read something from the original text of their Holy Book.

Accordingly, when the next meeting was held Hazratjee was asked to initiate since it was his suggestion. Thus, he commenced with the recital of Surah Faatiha since it is the opening chapter and the essence of the entire Qur'aan which he subsequently translated in English. Next was the Rabbi. He opened a book and started reading in English. Hazratjee D.B. interrupted, “In which language did Allah Ta'ala reveal the torah to Hazrat Musa (Alaihi Salaam)?”

The Rabbi replied, “In Hebrew.”

Hazratjee said, “So why are you reading from the English text? Had it not been agreed upon that in the next meeting our recitation would be from the original text?”

These words stirred up an atmosphere of total silence.

The silence continued for some time then, the Christian priest broke it by saying, “Frankly speaking, the Qur'aan is the only book that is in its original state ever since it was revealed.”

“Inna Nahnu Nazzalnaz Zikr Wa inna lahu Lahafizun” Allahu Akbar! Allah Ta'ala himself has preserved His book, the Holy Qur'aan.

(Taken from the lectures of Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.)

TIME TO SWEEP THE HEART Angels of mercy do not enter a house in which there are pictures of animate objects .Today we have pasted posters and idols of lust and greed in to our hearts, turning it into a trash can. Accordingly how can we expect the Mercy of Allah Ta'ala to descend upon such a soiled place that is flooded with worldly idols? Let us sweep this house clean to accommodate Allah's mercy and blessings. Taken from the quotes of :Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.

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MERAJ WINNER… Fatima Akubat.

WIN WIN WIN WINERS… Uwais Jada Kara.

Aisha Gangat.

VIRTUES OF SALAAT WINNER ZAINAB MOHAMMED MOHAMMED YUSUF MOTALA

PUZZLING PUZZLE WINNER… AHMED MAHOMED

WORDSEARCH ANSWER Hard work and diligence is an essential ingredient for the recipe of success

MOTHER'S COMPETION WINNER UMME-YAHYA ANONYMOUS SISTER

WIN WIN WIN ANSWERS. 1. Hadrat Ali 2. Ammar bin Yasir.

3. Maimoonah binti Haris 4. Abdullah ibn Abbas

WORD SEARCH WINNERS… Umaimah Patel; Chipata.

Fahmeedah Patel; Twatotela School.

Shafeeka Patel; shining star.

Kausa Nanyangwe. Moon rays trust.

DRAWING COMPETITION WINNERS ZAINAB MAHOMED FATIMAH MAHOMED EBRAHIM MAHOMED ZAKERA UGRADAR

PUZZLING PUZZLE ANSWERS… Umar Ali Hassan

ROLE MODEL WINNER-MUNIR S. GADIALI GRADE 1 TWATOTELA SCHOOL

WINNER’S PAGE 5

ALLAH’S MERCY SEARCHING FOR EXCUSES FROM THE LECTURES OF HAZRAT MOULANA ZULFIQAR AHMAD NAQSHBANDI D.B. AN ANNUAL SPIRITUAL WORKSHOP- RAMADAAN In present times professional and experts in every field update their knowledge and skills through an annual workshop. The Qur'aan delivered this concept to humanity 1500 years ago. Allah in His infinite wisdom knew that these souls would lose themselves amid the chaos and struggle of the world. Hence, Allah Ta'ala invited the believers to this annual workshop to renew their deeds and enhance their spiritual conditions. The Almighty convened the believers to recharge their spiritual batteries through recitation of the Holy Qur'aan and performance of good deeds. The purpose of listening to the entire Qur'aan in Taraaweeh was to understand the message of Allah with the intention of practicing upon it with unsullied resoluteness. The aim of this annual workshop is to update our faith and gain amnesty.

Allah's mercy is forever searching for excuses to forgive the believers…

THE TWELFTH ROUND OF THE MATCH- RAMADAAN Eleven months out of twelve Shaytaan incites the servants towards evil thus Allah Ta'ala makes an arrangement for the believers. It is as though we are in a boxing arena with Shaytaan and there are twelve rounds of this match. Shaytaan knocks us out through temptations and evil continuously for the first eleven rounds however Allah Ta'ala holds Shaytaan inflexibly for us in the twelfth round so that we can give him a technical knock out. It is stated in the Hadith that Allah Ta'ala orders the angels to fetter the devils with chains around their necks. This in reality is a great favour of Allah upon the believers who aids His servants in the final round in order for them to defeat Shaytaan. Allah's mercy is forever searching for excuses to forgive the believers…

INCREMENT IN RATES OF VIRTUOUS ACTS DURING RAMADAAN The reward of an optional prayer is increased to the extent of an obligatory prayer. Moreover the reward for an obligatory prayer is increased seventy times. The reward of righteous deeds is increased so that the good deeds of the believers outweigh their bad deeds.

Allah's mercy is forever searching for excuses to forgive the believers…

ACCEPTANCE OF DUAS AT THE TIME OF IFTAARAllah knows that his servants will seek forgiveness at this instant and it will be an ideal moment for Him to forgive them. Thus Allah Ta'ala guarantees the acceptance of the fasting person's duas. Moreover he appoints the angels to say 'ameen' to the duas of the fasting person. Allah's mercy is forever searching for excuses to forgive the believers…

THE NIGHT OF POWER Allah Ta'ala placed a night in this month …it is superior in blessings and spiritual virtue to a thousand nights which is equivalent to eighty years. Think about it…the average age of the people of this ummah does not exceed eighty. Ponder over the mercy of Allah who desires to reward his servant with the reward of worshipping for eighty years in exchange for standing in prayer on that one night.

Allah's mercy is forever searching for excuses to forgive the believers…

THE LAST NIGHT OF RAMADAAN Allah's mercy and forgiveness is at its peak on this night. Bani Qalb Nami was a village on the outskirts of Madinah Munawwarah .Their families owned cattle in immense quantities and subsequently, became very famous for cattle-rearing . The Prophet Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam once said that in every night of Ramadan, Allah ta'ala frees people from Hell in numbers as large as the number of hair on all the sheep of Bani Qalb Nami. However, Allah’s clemency and compassion knows no bounds on this final night and Allah Ta’ala grants emancipation from fire to the amount of people that had been freed from the first of Ramadan to the last. Hence, keeping in mind the estimate of Allah's mercy one who has failed to achieve much in the past twenty- nine days can still beg for forgiveness and earn Allah's pleasure.

Allah's mercy is forever searching for excuses to forgive the believers…

DAY OF EID Finally, when the servants go for the Eid Prayer on the day of Eid Allah Ta'ala asks the angels, “Oh Angels, what is the payment of that employee who has completed his service?” They reply, “O our Sustainer, his imbursement should be paid in full.” To this Allah replies, “O my Angels, verily my servants, the males among them as well as the females have performed the obligatory duty upon them, thereafter they set forth to the Eid-Gah raising their voices in prayer to me. I swear by my grace, by my high position of Greatness, that I shall surely answer the prayer of these people.” Thereafter Allah says (addressing the people), “Return, certainly I have forgiven your sins and have exchanged your evil deeds with righteous ones.” Rasululah (Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Those people then return from the Eid-Gah in a forgiven state.” Allah's mercy is forever searching for excuses to forgive the believers…

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REVIVE A SUNNAH ELEVEN SUNNATS IN QAYAM: 1.To stand straight during Takbire Tahrima without lowering the head.

2.To leave a space of at least four fingers between the feet and keep the toes toward the Qiblah.{Men only) 3.The muqtadi's Takbir should be simultaneous to the Imam's.

4.While saying the Takbir, the hands should be raised till the ears. {Females should raise till the shoulders} 5.The palms should be faced toward the Qibla.

6.To allow the fingers to be free, that is they should neither be tightened nor loosened to extremes.

7.To place the right hand over the left.

8.The little finger together with the thumb should form an arc around the wrist. {Men only} 9.The middle three fingers should be placed on top of the wrist. {Men only} 10.To place the hands below the navel. {Men only} 11.To read Thana.

SEVEN SUNNATS OF QIR'AT 1.To recite Ta'awwuzh( auzu billah) 2.To recite Tasmiyah (bismillah) 3.To say ameen in a silent tone 4.To recite the Tawaale Mufassal in Fajar and Zuhr which means to recite from anywhere in between Surae Hujraat and Surae Burooj to recite Awsaate Mufassal in asr and Esha that is to recite from anywhere between Surae Burooj and lam yakun and to recite Qisaare Mufassal in Maghreb salaah which is from Surae izha zul zila to Surae naas 5.To make the first raka't of Fajr longer 6.One should not hasten markedly nor should one pray at an excessively slow pace it is recommended that one should recite at a moderate pace.

7.To recite surae fatiha alone during the third and firth raka't of the fardh prayer.

In our next issue send in ‘Sunnats of Ruku and Sujood’ .One winner only … hurry don't delay

MUSLIMS ARE LIKE ONE BODY...

Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said, (words to the effect) “ The Muslims are like one body. When the eye experiences pain, the entire body shares the pain, and when the head aches, the whole body aches.”

To what degree does this feature of Iman exist in us? How much are Muslims prepared to forfeit and support their Muslim brothers and sisters in various parts of the world?

When we look at the avoidable waste, haraam luxuries and needless expenditure in which most well-to-do Muslims are indulging, we will realize that this noble attribute of iman mentioned by Nabi (sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) is hollow for us. Are Muslims who believe themselves to be concerned Muslims prepared to sacrifice some of the luxury and contribute the money to aid the suffering segment of this Ummah? Whilst most of us are biting into juicy steaks and appetizing deserts millions are dying of hunger.

Whilst a good number of us are going for a weekend out fishing or an exotic weekend at the game park so many of our Muslim brothers are sisters are lying without any medical aid and facilities.

Is there any Muslim ready to sacrifice his Saturday night barbeque…

Sunday Manda Hill shopping… weekend out with friends…Horrid Nintendo and TV games… costly novels and weekly immodest magazines...giving of gifts for haraam purposes...and hand the money in the path of Allah to assist the anguished Ummah of our beloved Prophet Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam?

Are there any Muslims prepared to thrust aside the un- Islamic weddings, functions and donate the huge sum that would have gone wasted, in the cause of Allah to assist the suffering Muslim brothers and sisters everywhere? You are required to search your soul and bring to mind the day of your death. Will your squander and misuse come to your aid when Izraeel alaihis salaam strikes to tear you away from your possessions?

Time for serious reflection...

Read 'Ya Samadu' 125 times after Fajr Namaz. Inshallah all wishes will be fulfilled. (Zaynab Saeed Gadiali. Grade 6A Twatotela School.)

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NEXT TO THE ONE YOU LOVE After brushing her smooth silky hair for the twentieth time and taking one last peek into the mirror, Sakina walks out of the house. Leaving a whiff of the strong fragrance of her designer perfume behind, she thinks over the events of the previous religious gathering. She thinks about the old woman wrapped in a plain white shawl, who was giving a lecture on, 'Hijab' on Tuesday. Wasn't she simply divine!She looked like an angel in white... With a hint of guilt Sakina confesses in her heart that one day she aspires to become like that lady … pure, chaste and full of love, but at present life was full of excitement and fun.

Her sides split as the thought; 'Hasan's eyes will pop out of their sockets when he sees me today.' coated her mind altogether.

Just as she crossed the street, thick fog blurred her vision thrusting her into utter bewilderment and panic. A miasma of dense vapor accompanied by an ear-piercing sound rose towards the sky. People scampered like lost sheep screaming and wailing until all at once, the land stretched out and large scales appeared on the scene. Suddenly, there was pin-drop silence…

Every soul immediately looked away and bowed his head drowned in torrents of sweat. At that instant Sakina realized where she was. It was the last day, the hour she had so often heard about. She took a quick glance and saw herself surrounded by strangers. Where was mum, dad, Shakila and Muhammad? Where were her relatives?

How could they abandon her at such a time? She wanted to cry but in vain realized that her tears had betrayed her too.

The queue was swiftly moving forward. At the end of her group she all of a sudden recognized her close friends Saahira , Iram and Maha. Somewhere along the queue there was that stunning singer and the handsome bollywood actor too. Would it have been another day she would have rejoiced and jumped for joy, but in the present situation every joint and limb froze upon their sight. What did the prophet sallal lahu alaihi wasallam say?

'Al mar'u ma a man ahabba' One will be resurrected with whom one loves on the Day of judgment.

“O Allah! No! Please don't let this be!” She recalled pasting posters of her favourite actors and singers in her room and cupboard. She thought of her zeal and desire to become like them and dress like them which had been beyond explanation. However, bitterness filled every inch of her body upon their mere thought today. All she felt was shame and remorse! How could she have wasted the valuable years of life? If only Allah could give her one more chance… just one more chance “Mum, where are you? Daddy, daddy …” She screamed frightfully within herself as her voice had deceived her.

A few meters ahead, she saw a woman whose face was being smoldered by blazing flames while a voice echoed, 'Are you not the one whose face brightened upon seeing strange men? Are you not the one who dressed to attract the glances of men ' Sakina trembled with fear and looked away only to face another scary scene.

Melted iron was being applied through the eyes of some men and women and it was being said, “You took pleasure in casting lustful glances towards the opposite sex (non-related man / woman (Na mehram), this is your punishment today.”

Thereafter, a voice called out, “Where are those shameful people who walked to meet non-related man / woman (na mehram) to commit the immoral act of adultery? Fetter their feet with chains of fire and drag them towards Jahannum.”

She found herself moving swiftly towards the front. Sweating profusely she remembered how she had dressed up everyday, to win praises from Hassan. Those sweet scenarios of her and Hassan meeting privately in the park appeared before her eyes though the slightest trace of sweetness or charm had at this moment vanished. Her heart was thumping against her rib cage.The endless chatting on the internet, browsing through unlawful sites…the list of her wrongdoing would never end! ‘'O Allah, have mercy on me I have truly lost my case'.” she prayed silently “.O Allah, you are aware of the remorse in my heart I had after committing sins.O Allah I repented over and over again but Shaitan and nafs overpowered me. O Allah I prayed, time and again to be like that old Muallima but temptations conquered my soul...” She could feel the heat of the rising flames, as she moved in the direction of the pit of hell. An angel walked towards her with heated metal rods and chains of fire.

Her eyes were watering, her skin burning and her feet seemed to have lost all feeling of life. Her throat was so dry that it felt as though thorns were pricking inside. 'O Allah, have mercy on me I have truly lost my case' she continued to beg.

As the angel extended his bloodcurdling hands to fetter her feet with chains that were fiery red with heat, a strong gust of wind blew her away. As soon as she regained her senses she found herself with some pious people like the Sheikh she heard so often on the’ Islamic Channel’ and her heart would fill up with reverence ,love and esteem for him... that divine Muallima she time and again desired to be like... her grandma whose devotion and piety generated an indescribable yearning within her to become pious. She cried and cried until she could no longer cry. The Prophet Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam did indeed say, 'Al mar'u ma a man ahabba' one will be resurrected with whom one loves on the Day of Judgment. She wished she had never ever loved and imitated those transgressors even for a split-second of her life.

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TRICKY TAAWEEZ Sumeya lived with her husband and mother-in-law in a small house on the outskirts of town. Their lives were shattered by the constant bickering and quarreling that went on between her and her mother-in-law. As the saying goes that 'the woman has a little restrain over her tongue…'

The situation became worse with each passing day. To rub it in her mother-in-law constantly praised her own daughters and other girls in front of her. One morning, after a lengthy row, Sumeya's mother-in-law decided to pay a visit to a famous Moulana who lived in a near by village.

She dreadfully wanted some kind of Taweez to get rid of her daughter-in-law. Once she met the Moulana, she started crying over her ill fate expressing her desire for a Taweez that would kill her daughter-in-law. The Moulana thought for a while and began to write some verses with saffron on a piece of paper. After folding and sealing the paper, the Moulana handed it to the old woman.

“Listen carefully, this Taweez is very powerful but works over time. Place it somewhere in your daughter-in-law's room and be extra cautious regarding the way you treat your daughter-in-law from now on wards. Your words should be dipped in honey and your actions coated with sugar from today, so that no one suspects you after her death. Agree with all her suggestions and treat her like your own daughter. Understood?”

With a thumping heart the old woman agreed to everything and went home happily. Once home the old woman called out with much feigned love, “Beta… oh Beta…” this continued for over a period of six months until the old woman had to no longer pretend to love her daughter-in-law. As we all know that love generates love… they would sit on the swing like old pals and chat and laugh. Sumeya would try her best to make food that her mother-inlaw liked and her mother-in-law would run short of words praising her in front of people.

Suddenly one night, the old woman remembered the Taweez and panicked. She rushed early in the morning to the Moulana's house and began to cry, but for a different reason this time.

“Molvi saheb, please help me. I don't want my daughter-in-law to die… I love her.”

The Moulana smiled and said that he hadn't given her any such Taweez. He had only written the Asmaul-Husna (the beautiful names of Allah Ta'ala) on the paper. Then the Moulana pointed out that the problem was her extreme dislike for her daughter-in-law and her fault finding nature that never allowed her to get close to Sumeya. Furthermore, he bid the old woman good bye with the following advice, “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you. Love and you will be loved.”

REFRAIN FROM NEGATIVE THINKING An essential element in the endurance of marriage is positive thinking. One should refrain from negative thoughts, as everything regarding a person that one is fond of appears good and likewise everything concerning an individual one dislikes seems bad. If pessimism and negative thinking seeps into the hearts and minds of couples, they regard each other as evil and harmful as poison.

Negative attitude A wife would constantly carp and criticize her husband. Fed up of the wife's endless nit-picking he raised his hands in prayer to Allah (SWT). He supplicated to Allah (SWT) to bestow him the capability to perform such a miracle by which his wife would be impressed and thus respect him. Consequently, Allah (SWT) granted him the ability to fly.

Seizing this opportunity, he flew over his house. When he returned home later that evening, his wife retorted, “You feign to be a great saint don't you? Today I saw a genuine saint! He was flying with the gentle wind.”

When the husband heard this he smiled confidently and replied,” Believe it or not, that was me!”

This was a bit difficult for the wife to assimilate so she thought for a moment and said, “No wonder! I thought to myself why is this person flying in such a crooked manner.”

These are the results of negative thinking.

The couple should refrain from negative thinking and try to win each other's love through good disposition and character. The most destructive element in a marriage is negative thinking.

Different people view things differently.

A pessimist upon seeing a pretty rosebush will mourn about the prickly thorns whereas an optimist will be pleased to view the beautiful roses disregarding the thorns.

It is up to the viewer to focus on the good things in life and ignore the bad.

(Taken from Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s ‘Exemplary married life’)

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Health Corner

B...

THE BLADDER AND ITS DISEASES Cystitis Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder most commonly suffered by women, although men and children also get it. Cystitis occurs when the bacteria in the sectrum, which normally cause no problems, find their way into the urinary track. This can happen when one wipes from back to front after relieving oneself. Bacteria can also enter the urethra in other ways.

Symptoms- wanting to pass through urine frequently and when you do, a scalding sensation is felt. The urine often smells unpleasant and there may be blood in it. You may run a temperature and have a backache.

Treatment- Drink a pint of water every 20 minutes. Dissolve a spoon of bicarbonate of soda in a glass of water and drink. Give a urine sample.

Transitional cell carcinoma

Bladder cancer Tumors of the bladder can be benign or malignant while they can usually be treated effectively. Prompt action is needed to prevent damage to the kidneys due to obstruction of urine flow and in the case of malignancy to other parts.

Causes- Tumors of the bladder. The incidence is higher among workers of dye industry which is due to exposure to certain harmful chemicals.

Management of urinary stones Symptoms- Blood in the urine is usually the first sign followed by Left ureter burning sensations.

Treatment- It is either treated by laser treatment or sometimes if the Bladder cancer has spread out and marred the bladder then the removal of the entire bladder is inevitable.

Cystourethroscope Bladder stones A bladder stone may be a kidney stone that is passed trough the ureter but most bladder stones are formed in the bladder as a result of stagnant urine or those who take calcium supplements.

Causes- the stones are thought to be formed by an over concentration of calcium in the urine, particularly common in hot areas.

Symptoms- include over frequent urge to pass urine and blood in urine with pain.

Treatment- if the stone is too big to pass out naturally it must be removed. This can usually be done by a cystoscope, which is inserted up by the urethra under general anesthetic. An instrument is passed through the cystoscope to draw the stones or crush them in small pieces.

Lithotrpsy with Shock Waves

Shock waves from an energy source travel to the stone and crack it

Removal Through Ureter

A ureteroscope is used to view the stone

Over active bladder Fragmented stones are The stones crumbles into fine sand Frequency- means waking up to eight times during the night to empty withdrawn or passed after thousands of shock waves the bladder.

Urgency- means feeling excessive pressure near the urethra and feeling an urge to empty the bladder.

Incontinence- means not being able to control the flow of urine for a long period of time.

These are all signs of an overactive bladder that need to be resolved through consultation with the urologist,

WOMEN BE ACTIVE Come on ladies, let's be active. For a change let the husbands see fresh and radiant faces when they arrive in the evening. It can't be too exciting to see a tired, weary, sickly wife every evening, who either complains of a head-ache, a back ache or irritable children.

For a start, focus on the activities you take pleasure in, not the activities you should be doing. Exercise includes everything from walking and swimming to biking and running around and playing hide and seek, catches, badminton and ball with your children. Try to be active for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Not only will this strengthen your bones and muscles, but it will aid in reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, breast cancer and hypertension. Moreover this will by and large contribute towards a healthy, pleasurable and idyllic marital life.

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ETIQUETTE BETWEEN STUDENTS AND TEACHERS FROM THE PEN OF HAZRAT MOULANA ASHRAF ALI THANWI R.A.

“In our times nobody else's words proved as effective as the words of the Ustaadhs on the students. The students in those days cherished an unusual degree of devotion and love for their Ustaadhs and the Ustaadhs in turn fostered great affection for them.

However, nowadays the temperaments and dispositions have undergone dramatic changes.The bond that linked the Ustaadhs and students together no longer remains. This in reality is the main reason for the lack of zeal and enthusiasm in learning.The Ilmi capabilities as well as the field of spiritual upbringing both have become languid.

Hence it is essential to nurture the students correctly in the Madaaris along with kindling within them the spirit of serving (khidmah) the ustaadhs.This will play a great role in engendering the attachment between students and ustaadhs.”

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (Rahmatullahi Alaih) further commented that, 'Paying due respect to teachers is also a form of Taqwa. He who fails to value his Ustaadh with the respect he deserves, can not be a Muttaqi.Taqwa is a means of increasing one's knowledge.It is a divine system of Allah Ta’alah that one fails to acquire knowledge without the satisfaction of his Ustaadh. ’ EXCERPTS FROM ; BAA ADAB BAA NASEEB

Imam Ghazali (R.A.) writes in 'Ahya-ul- uloom' that Salaah a worship which entails the submission of the external organs is not valid without external cleanliness , likewise knowledge which is a form of spiritual devotion, cannot be attained without internal purity.

Our pious predecessors have related that a person, who does not abstain from sins as a student, is chastised in three ways by Almighty Allah.

1. Such a person either departs from this world early in life.

2. Or in spite of all his accomplishments such a student wanders about without direction. Hence his knowledge is of no benefit to him or anyone else.

3. Or he suffers the disgrace of serving a king or a well-to-do person, like a slave.

Abdul Rahman Bin Qasim (R.A.) once declared: “I remained in the company of Imam Malik (RA) for twenty years. For eighteen years I was taught etiquettes, moral values and principles, and two years I spent to acquire knowledge of Deen.'

Hadrat Moulana Khaleel Ahmed Sahranpuri (RA) would never use anything belonging to the madressa for personal use. He was cautious to such an extent that he would not even sit on the floor of the madressa unnecessarily.

At one learning institution it was witnessed that a student who was studying after Esha turned off the light he was using and lit another one immediately. Someone asked him the reason for this apparently weird behavior.

The student replied that, “The lamp I was using for studying belonged to the Institution, hence I turned it off after the permitted time expired. Thereafter I lit my own lamp for revision.”’This was the sublime degree of caution exercised by students in those times which was fused with exceeding love and respect for the ustaadhs through which Allah Ta’ala made their chests treasure troves of knowledge.

Hazrat Ali (R.A.) commented regarding the respect and reverence of the teacher, 'I am the slave of a person who has taught me even one word. If he wishes he may sell me or if he desires to set me free he may do so and if he wants to keep me as his slave he may.’

(Excerpts taken from:Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s Baa adab Baa Naseeb)

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EATING HEALTHY The food that a woman cooks enters the stomachs of the entire family. This food has an effect on every member of the family who consumes it. If food is prepared in the state of negligence, then this food will generate darkness instead of celestial light (nur) in the body.

Therefore, the foremost duty of a wife is to cook food with zikr (remembrance of Allah) and fikr (contemplation) in order to dispel darkness from the hearts of the those who consume it. Pious wives keep their tongues moist with the remembrance of Allah whilst cooking.

Once this humble servant was invited for a meal at a friend's house in Karachi. When the food was served, the host said that his wife had recited Surah Yaseen 11 times during the preparation of the meal.

I was amazed as well as pleased that such people do exist in these times, who have adapted the style of the Sahabiyah .

Once a sahabiyah was cooking chapattis in a clay oven, whilst reciting the Holy Qur'aan. By the time her chapattis were done, she realized that she had completed no less than three chapters of the Holy Qur'aan. We learn from this that their tongues were ever busy with the recitation of the Qur'aan even whilst performing their daily chores. As this is the Sunnah of the sahabiyah (RA), we should endeavour to follow it.

Food prepared with the heart and mind engaged in the remembrance of Allah without doubt illuminates the heart. Try it and you'll see that your children will become obedient and your husband will be more loving towards you. Undeniably, food has a great effect on a person.

Our mashaikh say that the journey of a sulook [the Sufi term for traveling towards the pleasure of Allah] can be undertaken with the help of two wings- halal sustenance and truthfulness in speech. Hence women ought to make sure that the food they feed their children is by no means doubtful or haraam.

Care and caution should be exercised while washing the dishes that they not only appear clean but also are pure in shar'ee terms [paak].Women are usually careless about these seemingly petty things which have a great effect on the house hold.

Many woman cook food whilst listening to music. Will such food contain blessings or will it infuse darkness? After consuming this food if the husband and children turn rebellious and disobedient, who is at fault? Who has to endure this burden of an insubordinate family unit? Instead of enduring such hardships why don't women cook such foods that will instill piety in the entire household?

(Taken from Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.'s :'Exemplary Married Life') Pure and wholesome food is obtained through stringently halal income. Food of this nature is generally accessible within the home. There was an aged person by the name of Abdullah Shah, who made his living as a gardener. His income was very little, however he would save a meager amount from it every month so he could invite the Ulama of Darul-uloom Dewband at the end of the year.

The Ulama would eagerly anticipate this annual dinner that would consist of very simple provisions because they would feel a marked improvement in their worship for forty days after eating it.Sheikh Yaqub Nanotwi R.A.would often remark that the anwaarat of those few morsels of rice, would be evident within the heart for an entire month after eating them. Such are the blessings of pure, halal food cooked in a clean environment of the home.

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IMPORTANCE OF HALAAL FOODS In view of the fact that this issue is generally related to women and marital affairs , let us women remind ourselves that we are special in the eyes of Allah Ta'ala .Above all, Allah has given us the responsibility of managing the household which includes everything from taking care of the husband's needs to bringing up the children. Our duties should not be viewed as extra burdens for the beauty of Islam is that it is sympathetic to the inherent strength and weakness of the female gender. It may appear as though we have extra responsibilities in addition to those of men, but by and large an absolute balance is struck. Islamic laws apply to both genders in a manner that men and women live with incomparable fairness that mortal man could never have invented. Hence, ‘women’s lib’ isn't all about having women truck drivers and men cooking and minding the kids. Rather, it entails virtuous women who produce and rear the children of today into a God-fearing and noble future generation.

To begin with a good wife will convince her husband that a meager amount that is stringently halal is far superior to profuse wealth that is Haram or doubtful. Furthermore a virtuous woman will introduce piety in her home and instill seeds of faith and moral values in the entire household by feeding them pure and halal food.

Today, we complain about the unruliness of the husband and children. Little do we realize the detrimental effects of those chocolate bars, candies or take- way pizzas? It is a proven fact that consumption of haraam undoubtedly leads one towards sin. Imaam Gazali relates from Sheikh Suhail (R.A.) that those who consume haraam are deprived of the obedience of mind. The mind rationally promotes and supports the performance of good actions however due to the effect of haraam food that enters the body and becomes part of the flesh; the limbs are unable to respond.

Allah commands the believers, 'O prophets eat from the pure and wholesome food we have provide for you and perform righteous deeds' Even the noble prophets were explicitly directed to consume halal; because there is a distinct connection between consumption of haraam and compliance to the directives of Allah. The competence to act righteously is directly related to the consumption of halaal. A body nurtured by haraam becomes incapable of submission to Allah.

If we open the refrigerator or take a glance into the pantry there will be numerous items within view that we use daily. Take for instance the cheese in the freezer… are we sure it is certified by Zamha? If not it could possibly contain non-halaal animal rennet. What about the food colouring we use for icings and baking… the colour could perhaps be derived from a crushed beetle? The list never ends; hence we ought to create the awareness within ourselves as well as within our family unit. No food should enter the home prior to being investigated and checked and this habit has to be instilled in the children from a tender age.

Such is our sad state today that we are weighed down with complexity and surrounded by dilemmas. Ceaseless tears are shed in the loneliness of the nights but where are we getting??

Our Master sallal lahu alaihi wasallam said, ' A time will come upon my ummah when people will not be concerned over what they partake.It will not matter to them whether it is haraam or halal.'(Bukhari ) It is further reported that.

'When such a time comes then none of their duas will be accepted' This confirms that the major obstruction for the acceptance of duas as well as the main reason for lack of enthusiasm in virtuous acts and Ibaadah is eating doubtful and haraam foods.Therefore, we need to take the bold step towards the halal campaign and the best place to begin with is within our homes.

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YOUMUL -ARAFAH It is the day on which the religion was perfected and Allah's favour was completed.

In al- saheehayn it was reported by Umar bin Khattab Radiallahu taala anhu that a Jewish man said to him, “O, Ameerul Mumineen there is an ayah in your book which you recite; if it had come to us Jews we would have taken that day as an Eid.” Umar Radiallahu taala anhu asked, “Which ayah is it?”

He said,“ ALYAWMA AKMALTU LAKUM DEENAKUM WA ATMAMTU ALAIKUM NEMATI WA RADEETU LAKUMUL ISLAMA DEENA , (This day I have perfected your religion for you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion .[al Maaidah 5:3 ] )” Umar Radiallahu taala anhu said that we know on which day and place this ayah was revealed to the Prophet (Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam). It was when he was he was standing in Arafah on the day of Friday.

It is the day of Eid for the people present on the plains of Arafah.

It is a day by which Allah took an oath.

The Almighty Allah does not take an oath on anything apart from that which is mighty. Yawmul Arafah is the witnessed day mentioned in the ayah below: By the witnessing day (Friday) and by the witnessed day (Arafah) [Al-Burooj 85:3.

It was reported from Abu Huraira Radiallahu taala anhu, that the Prophet Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam said, the promised day is the day of resurrection, the witnessed day is Arafat and the witnessing day is Friday.

It is reported by Abu Qataadah Radiallahu ta'ala anhu, that the Messenger of Allah Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam has said, (words to the effect) “Fasting on the day of Arafah compensates for the sins of the previous year and of the next year.” The fasting is mustahab for those who are not in hajj. In the case of one who is performing hajj it is not sunnat for him to fast on the day of Arafat because the Prophet sallallahu alaihi Wasallam did not fast on this day (whilst on Hajj).

It is the day which Allah took pledge from the progeny of Adam.

It was reported from Ibn Abbas Radiallahu taala anhu that Nabi sallallahu alaihi Wasallam said, Allah took the pledge from all the souls of the offspring of Adam in Arafat. He addressed them and said, ALASTU BI RABBIKUM - AM I NOT YOUR LORD? QAALU -THEY SAID “BALAA” -YES WE TESTIFY… It is a day of forgiveness of sins, freedom from the fire and pride for the people who are there.

It is narrated from H. Aaisha (Radiallahu anha), that the Prophet (Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam) said, “There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the fire than the day of Arafah.”

On the night of Arafah , Allah Ta'ala’s special mercy descends to the skies of this world and Allah looks at His devoted servants and praises them in the celestial circles of the angels. Allah declares: O my angels, do you see my devoted servants? They have arrived from all directions, disheveled and dust-laden. They are hopeful of my mercy. O my angels, I call you to bear witness that I have forgiven all of them including the sinners, due to the presence of pious people among them.Then Allah addresses his servants and says:O my servants you have all gained abundantly by having all your past sins forgiven,whether they be minor or major, old or new.

MASJIDE -NAMIRAH IN ARAFAH

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UMAR RADIALLAHU TALA ANHU’S CHOICE OF A BRIDE FOR HIS SON Since fear of Allah is the natural product of faith, it then follows that this is the attribute to look for in any potential partner. Without it, you run the risk of condemning your child to a lifetime in a home overwhelmed with conflicts.

This fear and consciousness of Allah Ta'alah is known as Taqwa in Arabic. If you open the Qur'aan and read Surah Nisaa', after every few Ayaat we have been commanded by Allah Ta'alah 'Ittaqullah, Ittaqullah, Ittaqullah' (Fear Allah, Fear Allah, Fear Allah). By reminding us repeatedly Allah Ta'alah is impressing upon us the fact that without Taqwa a husband and wife couldn't lead a peaceful life.

It is a famous story that once Hazrat Umar (R.A.) was patrolling at night. When the sound of Fajar Azaan reached his ears he started walking towards the mosque. As he was walking he passed a house from where he heard raised voices.

He stopped to listen and heard an old woman conversing with a younger woman.

“My dear child, has the goat been milked?”

“Yes mother,” “How much milk is there?”

“Very little, mother” “Well then, add some water to reap the full benefits.”

“Certainly not!” the younger woman exclaimed.

“The Ameerul Mu'mineen {Hazrat Umar (r.a)}is not watching.” said the mother rather annoyingly.

“Mother, even though the Ameerul Mu'mineen is not watching, his Lord the Omnipresent Allah is watching.” the girl reminded her mother.

Hazrat Umar (r.a) carried on. When daylight broke he summoned both mother and daughter. Hazrat Umar enquired about the girl and found that she was not yet married. Hazrat Umar (R.A.) proposed on behalf of his son. The outcome of this incident was that this God fearing girl became the daughter-in- law of Ameerul Mu'mineen Hazrat Umar R.A. Not only that but this same woman gave birth to a daughter who became the mother of Hazrat Umar bin Abdul Azeez (R.A.). (Excerpt taken from Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s Upbringing of Children)

FEEL GOOD & LOOK GOOD Trying to fit in clothes two sizes smaller? Tired and moaning? Well let me tell you this…the starving diet and intense exercise are both as passé as the rib Jane Fonda supposedly had removed, to acquire the body which nature never intended her to possess. If these regimes worked then Jane would have followed her own prescribed methods and would look the way she wanted without surgical help. The truth of the matter is that exercise, fitness and diet are supposed to be about good health. Undeniably they are about shape and tone too but one has to get the motives right. On a happy and healthy note eat a well balanced diet which includes lots of fresh vegetables and establish a fairly light exercise routine. How much exercise and food do you need for fitness? Well, international research says, 'You need a health and fitness program which will encourage perseverance and persistence. This means a burst of vigorous activity three to four times a week; lasting from 15-40 minutes .The function of exercise is to keep the body fit and to protect it from self inflicted damage to muscles and joints. When we overextend ourselves past the pain threshold in the name of exercise we defeat the purpose. Same goes for starving in the name of diet. A well balanced nutritious meal topped with lots of salad will not only leave you energetic but feeling good too. In addition drinking up to eight glasses of water daily flushes the body's system keeping it clean and healthy.”

Once you exercise like this and eat a well balanced diet excluding the fatty foods, chances of making fitness a permanent part of life are maximised. To summarize, fitness is about being practical in terms of allocating time to your chosen schedule blended with sincere dedication. It is about being sensible and persistent in terms of effort out-put, which will slowly increase as your body tone, shape and condition improve. Follow this and positive results are guaranteed.

However, let me remind you, do not imagine yourself magically transforming into replicas of the fantasy figures seen on bill-boards and screens. Advise yourself that these women are in haraam careers supported by countless deceptive camera tricks and believe you me you don't want to be like them!

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VIRTUOUS ACTS FOR THE FIRST TEN DAYS OF ZULHIJJAH The first ten days of Zulhijjah are amongst the most magnificent days in the Islamic calendar.

Ibn Abbas (Radiallahu anhu) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said, “There are not any days in which the doing of righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these days i.e. the ten days of Zul Hijjah.”

So, increase saying Tahlil (La Ilaaha ill Allah) and Takbir (Allahu Akbar) and Tahmid (Alhamdulillah) in them.”

TO PERFORM HAJJ & UMRAH The performance of Hajj and Umrah, are the best deeds that may be done in these days. The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said , “Performance of Umrah is an expiation of the sins committed between it and the previous Umrah, and the reward of Hajj which is accepted

by Allah, Most High is nothing but paradise.”

Rasululah Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam said,(words to the effect) “The Hujjaj (pilgrims) and the Ummaar (those performing Umrah) are the delegation of Allah. He grants them whatever they ask for. He accepts their duas whenever they beseech Him. He compensates them for whatever they spend. For each dirham they spend they are rewarded a compensation equal to seven hundred thousand dirham.”

FASTING DURING THESE DAYS Fasting throughout these days, especially on the day of Arafat is one of the best deeds.

The Holy Prophet Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam has said, “ One who fasts during these days is rewarded a reward equal to the fasting of a whole year and one who worships a night in this period is rewarded a reward equal to the worship in Lailatul Qadr”.

Every Muslim should benefit from this wonderful opportunity by performing as much Ibaadah as possible during this period. Allah says,(Hadith Qudsi) “Fasting is for me and it is I who gives reward for it.”

Abu Qatadah reports that the Messenger of Allah Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam said, that fasting on the day of Arafat will be credited with Allah by forgiving ones sins of the previous year and the following year.

ZIKR AND TAKBIR Allah Tala says in the Qur'aan , (Surah Hajj Ayah 28), “and mention the name of Allah on the appointed days…”

This ayah refers to the first ten days of Zul hijjah. The Ulama consider it to be desirable to increase zikr in these days because the Hadith Ibn Umar Radiallahu taala anhu narrated by Ahmed, Which says in it …

“So increase in these days: the Tahlil, Takbir and Tahmid”.

Bukhari mentioned about Ibn Umar and Abu Huraira Radiallahu taala anhum that, the two used to go to the market place during the ten days of Dhul hijjah saying Allahu Akbar causing the people to say so…”

Ishaq narrated from the scholars of tabi'in that in these ten days they used to also say, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Laailaha illallah, Wa Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wallilahil hamd.

It is a beloved act to raise your voice (not for women) when saying the Takbir in the markets, the houses, streets, the masjid and other places, as Allah says in the Qur'aan (Surah hajj Ayah 37), “That you may magnify Allah for his guidance to you…”

REPENTANCE It is very important to repent from disobedience and all types of sins, because Allah's forgiveness leads one to the performance of righteous deeds. Disobedience and sin distances one away from Allah whereas compliance and good deeds draws one towards Allah.

In the Hadith of Hazrat Abu Huraira (Radiallahu Anhu), he said that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, “Verily Allah has a sense of ‘Ghayrah' (honour, prestige and anger over violation of commands), and Allah's sense of Ghayrah is provoked when a person does that which Allah has made prohibited.” (Bukhari and Muslim) INCREASE RIGHTEOUS DEEDS Doing plenty of voluntary (Nafl) virtuous deeds of worship like prayer, charity, reading the Qur'aan, commanding what is good and forbidding what is evil and other deeds whose virtues are multiplied in these days.

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TAKBIR AL MUQAYYID Takbir al- muqayyid (restricted in specific times and done in a particular manner) is done after the five obligatory prayers which are done in congregation. Women can pray at home silently after all five obligatory prayers.

QURBANI Nothing is more beloved to Allah on these three days (10,11,12,Zilhijjah) than qurbani.The Prophet Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam said, “When a person sacrifices an animal for Allah ,before the animal's blood reaches the ground it is accepted by Allah Ta'ala and becomes a means of attaining closeness to Allah.” It is authentically reported that the Messenger of Allah Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam slaughtered two rams, black and white in colour. Furthermore he slaughtered them with his blessed hands. He mentioned Allah's name (saying Bismillah) and said Takbir then placed his Mubarak feet on their sides (while slaughtering them.)

DO NOT CLIP NAILS HAIR ETC Nabi Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam said that,(words to the effect) those intending to perform Qurbani, should not clip or cut any of their hair and nails.(One can clip hair and nails after the Qurbani has been done.)

EID PRAYER FOR MEN It is incumbent for the Muslim (who is not making Hajj) to make every effort to perform the Eid prayer wherever it is performed and to attend the Khutbah and benefit from it. Eid is a day of gratitude and performing deeds of righteousness. Hence one should not make it a period of breaking the rules and increase in the forbidden things like music and uncontrolled amusement .One should try to avoid doing anything that would could cause all the good deeds performed in these ten days ,to go to waste.

Make the most out of this excellent offer!

TWO ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR A HAPPY MARRIAGE THE PURPOSE OF MARRIED LIFE. Allah Ta'ala states in the Holy Qur'aan, “Wa min aayatihi an khalaqa lakum min anfusikum azwaajal litaskunu ilayha waja ala baynakum mawaddataw warahmah inna fi zaalika la ayaatil liqawmiy yatafakkarun.”

[From the signs of Allah Ta'ala one sign is that He has created you in pairs so that you may derive peace from each other and there may be love and affection between you… ] We deduce from the ayahs of the Holy Qur'aan that the purpose of marriage is to acquire peace and contentment. Couples who lead their lives according to the Shariah and Sunnah often accomplish this tranquility.Homes that are bare of the blessings derived from practicing upon the Shariah and Sunnah consist of daily bickering and squabbling.

HOW TO LEAD A BLISSFUL MARRIED LIFE?!

The Holy Qur'aan states, “wajala baynakum mawaddataw wa rahmah.”

The recipe for a blissful marriage requires two essential ingredients : mawaddah and rahmah.

1.Mawaddah-can be defined as the emotion of amity and friendship. Indeed it has been noted that a young couple often make up after a quarrel or a fight.This is because the urge to fulfil their intimate requirements compels them to get together.We learn from this that during the period of youth the couple put up with each other and adapt a friendly relationship.

2.Rahmah- can be encapsulated as the feeling of affection, fondness and attachment that develops over a period of a lifetime.Once the couple crosses the period of youth and steps into the old age, their physical need for each other decreases.

Look at the beauty of the Qur'aan,at this point in married life the Qur'aan uses the word ' Rahmah' to describe the emotion between the spouses. By using the word,' Rahmah' ,the Qur'aan encourages the couple to take in to consideration the sacrifices and the lifetime they have resided together. Additionally, 'Rahmah' reminds the couple of the thick and thin they have been through jointly in life and asks them to display love and warmth at this point in time.At a time when the elderly couple are in need of moral support from each other,the word “Rahmah” in itself proves to be a mercy!

Such is the beauty of Islam that when regarding the married life it takes into consideration both dimensions of the picture,youth and old age.It links the word 'Mawaddah' with youth and 'Rahmah' with old age. Hence we ought to make the teachings of Islam our day to day guide to lead a peaceful life. (Taken from Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s ‘Exemplary married life’)

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VIRTUES OF THE KA’ABA Gazing at the Ka'aba is a form of worship (Ibaadah) and safety from hypocrisy. (Azraqi) Rasululah Sallal lahu Alaihi Wasallam said, whosoever looks at the House of Allah with faith, hopeful of rewards and acknowledgement, will have all his past and future sins forgiven. He will be resurrected on the day of Qiyamah with those who have attained salvation.

Allah Ta'ala will resurrect its residents on the Day of Qiyamah safe from punishment.” (Azraqi's Akhbarul Makkah /Jamiul Latif) “Around the Ka'aba lie the graves of three hundred prophets.”

(Sahih al Bukhari) Rasululah Sallal lahu Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whosoever makes tawaaf around the ka'aba seven times, for every step he takes, Allah elevates his stages seventy thousand times and grants him seventy thousand rewards (in lieu of every step).He also grants him the opportunity to intercede on behalf of seventy thousand Muslims from his family. If Allah wishes, He will accede to his request in this world or else he will store it for him in the hereafter.”(Words to the effect: Sunan Nasai) Rasululah Sallal lahu Alaihi Wasallam said, “The ka'aba is surrounded by seventy thousand angels. They seek forgiveness and blessings for those who make tawaaf.”(Ibn Maajah) Rasululah Sallal lahu Alaihi Wasallam said, “Verily Allah has a tablet made of red pearls. Allah looks into it three hundred and sixty times daily.

One hundred and eighty gazes are gazes of mercy and one hundred and eighty gazes are gazes of punishment. Indeed the first people Allah looks at with mercy are those who are in His holy sanctuary (Haram).

He forgives whomsoever He sees offering salaah standing. He forgives whomsoever He sees making tawaaf. He forgives whomsoever He sees sitting whilst facing the Qibla.

The angels then say (and Allah has full knowledge) “O our Rabb! Only those who are sleeping remain” Allah then says, “I include (in my forgiveness)those who are sleeping around my house together with those who are forgiven.”(Sunan of Dare Qutni)

VIRTUES OF HAJRE-ASWAD “Any one who comes to the Ruknul Aswad and kisses it, it is as though he has taken the Bay'at to Allah Ta'ala and his Rasul (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam).” (Sunan Tirmizi / Ibn Majah) Rasululah (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said: “Verily the Hajre Aswad is the right hand of Allah on earth. Through it, he shakes hands with his devoted servants just as you shake hands with your brother. Anyone who was unable to pledge the Bay'at to Rasululah Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam makes Istilaam (kisses or touches it) of the Hajre Aswad has Indeed pledged the Bay'at to Allah Ta'ala and his Rasul (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam). (Sahih Bukhari/ Sahih Muslim) Rasululah (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said: “Nothing of Jannah remains in this World except Hajre Aswad. If it was not for it being polluted by the filth and impurities of the idolaters, then no ill people would have touched it seeking a cure for an ailment except that they would have been cured.” (Muatta)

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VIRTUES OF MAKKAH MUKARRAMAH Rasululah Sallal lahu Alaihi Wasallam said, “The best city on the face of this earth to Allah is Makkah.”(Sahih al Bukhari) Rasululah Sallal lahu Alaihi Wasallam stated in another Hadith, “The earth was rolled out from Makkah. Allah Ta'ala stretched the earth from underneath it. Thus it is called the mother of all cities. (Sahih al Bukhari) In another Hadith it is stated that “There is no city on earth through which Allah multiplies one good deed by a hundred thousand fold” (Sahih Bukhari/Ibn Hibban) “Whosoever offers salaah therein, then salaah is increased in reward a thousand fold over.”

(Sahih Muslim/Sunan Nisai) “Whosoever fasts for one day therein, for him is written a reward of a hundred thousand fasts.”

“Whosoever gives one dirham charity,Allah writes for him the reward of having spent a hundred thousand dirham in charity.”(Ibn Abi Zubair in Jamiul Latif quoting from Sunan Tirmizi) “Whosoever completes the recitation of the full Qur'aan in Makkah, Allah records for him the reward of a hundred thousand recitations.”(Baihaqi/Ibn Majah) Rasululah Sallal lahu Alaihi Wasallam said, “Whosoever falls ill in Makkah for one day, Allah records for that person the rewards of having done good deeds equivalent to sixty years worship in any place.” (Muatta) “Anyone who endures the heat of Makkah with patience for an hour of the day, Allah will distance that person from the fire of Jahannum by a distance of a journey of five hundred years and bring him closer to Jannah by a distance of a journey of two hundred years. Indeed Makkah and Madinah eject impurities from within them like flames eject rust from iron. Understand carefully, that difficulties and calamities abound in Makkah right from the start. Great ranks are attained by enduring these difficulties.”(Words to the effect) (Sahih Muslim) Rasululah Sallal lahu Alaihi Wasallam said, “If it is possible for anyone to die in any of the two harams, then let him die there. I will be the first to intercede on behalf of such people. They will be safe from the punishment of Allah on the day of Qiyamah. No reckoning will be taken from them nor will they be punished.(Sunan Tirmizi/Ibn Maajah) There is no place on earth in which dua is granted acceptance at fifteen places.

Within the boundaries of the Ka'aba At the Hajre-aswad Behind the Maqame Ibrahim Multazam At the well of Zamzam At Marwah At Mina Between Safa and Marwah Between Marwah and the maqam At Arafah At Mash'arul haraam (Sahih Bukhari, Ibn Hibban/Nasai/Tirmizi/Baihaqi/Mustadraq)

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A I H A B I N

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C B I T B T S

A K H A D I J

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Word search…

Answer the following questions and find their answers in the word search below. Once you find and cancel all the words you will remain with a sentence.

Write that sentence and SMS it to: +260955 926702 ; international: +260977976111.

1To cover the mouth when yawning in salaah is ……………….

2.……… cleanses and earns the pleasure of Allah.

3.During the last days of Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam, an imposter named …… claimed prophet hood.

4.……. Killed the imposter named musailamah al kadhab.

5.Surah ……. is read every night and saves its reader from the punishment of the Qabr.

6.The title given to Khalid bin Waleed (R.A.) by Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam was…….

7.Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam received prophet hood in this cave …..

8.Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam's eldest daughter was Hadrat ……..

9.Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam had an uncle who was a mushrik and would continually th trouble him and due to this a surah was revealed based on him. It was the 6 surah revealed to Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam. Who was he?

10. She was the first Haafiza of this ummah…..

11.The battle in which Hadrat Hamza was martyred…….

12.Adam alaihi salaam's wife was……..

13.The surah which made Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam old is…….

14.…….. was the first wife of Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam.

15…… was the first muezzin.

TWO WINNERS 16….. was the first male to be martyred.

ONLY...HURRY HURRY 17The sahabi known to have a booming voice was……..

DON’T DELAY!!

18.Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam belonged to the tribe of ……

TEXT 19.The Arabic name for paradise is……

20.Musa alaihi salaam talked to Allah on this mountain…..

ON:0955926702/097797611 21.What is the Arabic word for son?

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Y Crossword….

ACROSS 1. The graveyard in Madina Shareef.

2. Which surah in the Qur'aan means, 'Table spread'?

3. Which food was sent to Nabi Musa (Alaihi Salaam)'s People form the heavens?

4. referring to what did Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam say is worse than Zina [ adultery] 5. Which beautiful name of Allah means, 'The giver of death'?

6. Who was the conqueror of Khaibar?

7. Which Nabi killed Jalut?

8. Which Sahabi used to recite the Qur'aan in one Rakaat?

9. Which wife of Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam married him on a certain place and passed away at the same place at the ripe old age of 81?

Y

Down…

1. Which word does Allah use in the Quraan for ‘painful’ when he says; “A painful punishment is for them.”

2. Abubakr RA's son's name was…..

3. Referring to what did Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam say is a branch of Imaan?

4. Which sahabiyah was known as Ummul Fadi [mother of virtues]?

5. Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam went to Taif in the …… year of nubuwah.

6. Imam Abu Hanifah RA's name was…….

7. Who is the founder of Ilmun Nahw?

8. Who was the 1st slave to accept Islam?

2 W I N N E R S

QURAAN QUIZ 5 1.WHICH IS THE MOST OFTEN USED

MINI-PUZZLE Boundaries demarcated by Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam which one cannot cross without donning the ihram.

1st letter in box.

It is three miles Away from Arafat and it is on the western side of Arafat .

5th letter in box.

After donning the ihraam reciting labbaik in full.Put the fifth letter in the box

1.2.

3.4.

LETTER IN THE HOLY QUR'AAN? 2.IN WHICH SURAH IS THE NAME OF ALLAH REPEATED IN EVERY VERSE? 3.IN WHICH SURAH DOES BISMILLAH APPEAR TWICE? 4.IN WHICH SURAH IS THE LONGEST VERSE OF THE HOLY QUR'AAN AND WHICH VERSE IS IT IN? 5.HOW MANY TIMES DOES THE WORD'QUR'AAN' APPEAR IN THE QURAAN?

The day on which religion was perfected and Allah’s favour completed.Youmul ------------1st letter

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W I N N E R S

MY ROLE MODEL MY ROLE MODEL My role model is none other than the last and most beloved messenger of Allah; Nabi Mohammad salallahu alaihi wasallam. This great man has guided humanity towards obeying the one and only Creator, Allah . Every person from within the Ummah should endeavour to follow in his blessed footsteps. Each and every Ummati should try to adopt the qualities of our beloved prophet salallahu alaihi wasallam whose compassion and kind heartedness was so great that he not only forgave the people of Taif who injured him from head to toe but also prayed on behalf of them. How many of us are like that? I'm sure none. He is the man I admire the most and aim to become like. This is because he went through pain and torture not for anyone else but his sinful and ignorant ummah. I will also try to struggle like him till my last breath. Insha-Allah. May the Almighty make me like him.

Musa Abdullah Shining Star Academy My role model is my father. I love my father a lot .I sleep with my father and when we go somewhere in a car I sit with him on the front seat. I can not thank Allah enough for such a great bounty. My heart bleeds for those who have lost their fathers and I sincerely pray that Allah grants them patience and strength. Ameen Munir.S.Gadiali Gr.1A. Twatotela School.

Guess who my role model is. Of course it is none other than my sister. She takes care of me like a first class nurse when my mum is out. She teaches me the difference between right and wrong.

Sometimes I get angry and fight with her but as soon as my anger cools down I realize my mistake and say sorry. I wish everyone had a sister like mine.

Kulsum .S .Gadiali. Gr 3 Twatotela School My role model is the Prophet salallahu alaihi wasallam. He was first to being and last to come. I love Nabi salallahu alaihi wasallam because Allah sent his blessed book through His exalted being, salallahu alaihi wasallam. He was the most righteous being in both worlds. He loved his ummah to such and extent that he prayed to Allah not to destroy his ummah. He forgave his enemy and supplicated for them. He is the Imam-un-nabiyeen. He led all the prophets when he went for Me'raj.

May Allah make me like him, the best of all creations Habibullah Mohammad Mustafa salallahu alaihi wasallam. Ameen. Muhammad Awwal Ibraheem. Nigeria.

My role model is Prophet Mohammad salallahu alaihi wasallam. If Allah had not created him, then He would not have created the sun, moon, nine planets, the seven skies and of course not forgetting the ground that you are standing on. The Prophet salallahu alaihi wasallam was kind and merciful to all creatures. Even a camel would come and lay the complaint of his master to Him salallahu alaihi wasallam. Nabi salallahu alaihi wasallam forbade evil and advised us to be good. He sallallahu alaihi wasallam is the most beloved Nabi to Allah. I wish to follow his exalted way of life. He would feed others while he himself was hungry. May Allah grant me the ability to be like him. Ameen.

Abdul Qadr Abdur- Rasheed. Nigeria.

My role model is a ...

A jeweler, who embeds gems of Allah's love into the heart of every soul.

A doctor, who prescribes zikr and cures with the laser rays of his eyes.

A surgeon, who removes the tumor of sin and plasters the wound with abstinence.

A gardener, who sows seeds of Imaan and irrigates with the water of taqwa .

A designer, whose products are branded by the distinguished mark of 'Sunnah'.

An accountant, who ensures that the balance sheet of good deeds is always more.

A scientist whose perfect blend of ingredients, formulate the, 'Qalbe-Saleem'.

My role model is undoubtedly my Sheikh, Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B. B.B.

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WHY I EMBRACED ISLAM During my visit to America an unusual incident took place one day .As I exited the masjid with my companions after performing salaah, a car passed by at a soaring speed but soon halted a few meters away from where we were standing and reversed.

? ?

We wondered what could have brought this woman back. For a moment it occurred to me that the woman might be lost and had stopped to seek directions for a certain road. Hence I told my companion to ask the lady if she was lost and needed assistance. Consequently he went to the woman and returned in less than two minutes saying that the woman was an American (who was very scantily dressed due to the hot weather). Furthermore, she wanted to know who I was.I told my companion to tell her that I'm a Muslim.

He complied but once again returned to inform me that the woman wanted to embrace Islam.

Hence I stood at a distance from her car and made her recite the kalimah (proclamation of faith) and changed her name upon her request. I gave her the cloth that I usually kept on my shoulder and told her that as a Muslim she should now cover herself .She declared that from now onwards she would cover herself and try to live as Muslim woman.

Moreover she revealed, ‘I had traveled a distance of 400km and was going further when suddenly my gaze fell upon you. I felt within my heart that this is the true image of a human being and at once made up my mind that I wanted to be like you. Hence after finding out you were a Muslim I too proclaimed my faith in Allah and entered the fold of Islam.'

Before she turned to leave she added, 'Well, it's highly unlikely that we will meet again in this life,but I am pretty sure that we shall meet on the Day of Judgment.'

A couplet came to mind: Tere mahbub ki yaa rab shabahat le kar ayaa hu Haqeeqat is ko tu karde me surat lekar aaya hu

My Lord, I have brought the resemblance of Your Beloved (sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) Turn this replication into reality …

What power or force pulled this woman into the fold of Islam? Was it not the externaL beauty of Sunnah?

(Taken from:Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B. ‘S ‘Ham kese Musalmaan huwe’)

At one time I really held Islam in abhorrence. I had no Muslim friends; for Islam was so repulsive to me that I did not want even to associate with its adherents. Little did I dream that a study of books on Islam would make a new man of me. I began to love Islam because of its straight and non mysterious path. It is clean ad simple, yet so full of deep studies that I soon felt the inevitable was drawing near.

The Holy Qur'aan, some passages of which I read, simply struck me with wonder, for I had the idea that there was nothing to rival the Bible. I found, however that I was hopelessly mistaken in this.

Indeed, the Holy Qur'aan is so full of truths, and its teachings so practical and free from dogmatic tenets and mysteries, that I drifted into the religion of 'peace and love' which Islam certainly is.

The Muslim brotherhood, also did not pass me unnoticed. If one wants to see the true realization of 'love ye neighbour the as ye love thyself' it can only be found in the Muslim brotherhood, the greatest and truest union of people the world has ever seen.

What convinced me further was that Islam was not dogmatic. It is ideal and practical, rational and modern. It is also ideal in its conception of one God and in its spirituality. Practical in its tenets, rational in its outlook, it is the one religion for all humanity.

MUMIN ABDUR RAZZAQUE SELLIAH. (CEYLON)

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UPBRINGING OF CHILDRENBY HAZRAT MOULANA ZULFIQAR AHMAD NAQSHBANDI D.B Continued...

DAUGHTERS ARE A DELIGHT. Obedient and pious children are a great bounty of Allah Ta’alah. In various places, parents express extreme joy upon the birth of a boy and feel saddened upon the birth of a baby girl. This had been the detestable practice during the era of ignorance. Moreover, it is within Allah's power to bestow male or female children. Whether the child is a girl or a boy, parents should show their appreciation and be content with Allah's decision. Allah will reward such a person on the Day of Judgement.

Daughters give a lot of moral support to parents and are much more faithful comparatively. A son may support his parents financially but he can't exhibit half the love and affection that a daughter has to offer.

Bear in mind! Most of the Ambiyae Kiram had daughters. The daughters of Hazrat Shoaib (a.s) are mentioned in the holy Qur'aan.

Allah Ta'alah says “Tamshi Alas Tihyaa” Allah Ta'alah praises the way they walked with utmost modesty.

The Qur'aan mentions and praises Bibi Mariam's pure and chaste character. May Allah grant such daughters to everyone that even the Holy Qur'aan bears testimony to their purity of character.Subhanallah.

Our beloved Prophet (sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) was blessed with sons who departed from him in childhood. Thus the Messenger of Allah(sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) passed his life in the company of his daughters. One who has daughters should appreciate Allah Ta'alah as it is a great honour to have a resemblance with the Beloved Master (sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) The Beloved Prophet (sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) said [words to the effect], “Whoever maintains 2 girls until they attain maturity, he and I will be in Jannah like this.' Saying this- he joined his 2 fingers Before the advent of Islam the birth of the baby girl would dampen the spirits of the entire family.

Islam introduced civilization to mankind. Therefore, the birth of a daughter is considered a blessing and an event of joy, by the wise and the educated.

On the whole , the husband doesn't oppress the wife as much as the other women folk do upon the birth of a baby girl. This habit of regarding girls as an omen is much more prevalent in women than in men. Often you will see , that the husband is at ease , yet his wife is taunted and harassed by the female in-laws. Besides taunting and reproaching the mother of the baby girl, they treat MALE her with such discourtesy that married life becomes a torture for her. These mothersSpermin-law should bear in mind that the tables can turn, the same could happen to their producing cell own beloved daughters.

GIRL OR BOY? Modern science has proven today that the sex of the baby is determined by the father.

This is based on the fact that the chromosomes present in the man's body are XY: (X which will produce girls and Y which will produce boys) and the chromosomes present in the woman's body are XX. When both the male and female chromosomes meet, then the male XY and the female XX split. If the males X chromosome meets the females X chromosome then the birth of a girl will take place and if the males Y chromosome meets the females X chromosome then the birth of a boy will take place.

Meiosis

Sperms

Half the sperms will contain an X chromosome and half will carry a Y chromosome

There is a possibility that certain men may carry one effective sperm type and thus are capable of producing children of only one sex. There is one factor in a baby's development in which the mother's genetic contribution has no influence what so ever. This is the matter of sex determination, whether the child will be a girl or a boy depends totally on the father's sperm. Therefore, one should bear in mind that the sex of the baby is always determined by the father and not the mother.* Therefore the birth of a girl should not plunge the whole family into mourning, and the mother should neither be disgraced nor tortured by other women folk in the family. Husbands should boldly take the blame and save their wives from all kinds of torture and depression.

May Allah save us all from such ignorance.

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BREAST FEEDING When a child is born, it is a very precious moment for the mother and the first gift she can present the child with is her milk. The child has the right to be fed on the mother's milk unless it has been declared medically unfit. Apart from being nourishing, bonds of love and affection are strengthened through breast-feeding. Some mothers deny their child the right to be suckled due to the fear of losing their beauty and shape, thus they immediately put the child on infant formulas. These children do not feel the tranquil and invigorating warmth of the mother through breast-feeding and naturally grow up without close attachment and love for her as a result.

As the poet says: Fed artificially, educated by The state…

How then does parenthood Exhibit in the child?!

X

In a moment of rage, a mother once said to her son, “How do you disobey me? You owe me for the milk of my bosom.”

He smiled and replied, “Which milk? I only remember the Nido tins.”

Unlike the infant milk formulas, mother's milk is also a source of spiritual nourishment as it affects the personality of the child.

Before breast feeding, the mother should pray Bismillah and whilst feeding she should engage herself in the remembrance of Allah (Thikr). The mother should bear in mind that duas are accepted at this moment; therefore she should ask The Almighty Allah to infuse oceans of wisdom and knowledge into the child with every drop of her milk STORY: 1 The mothers of our elders (mashaikh) always suckled their infants in the state of ablution. By the time Khwaja Moinuddin (r.a) completed his religious tour of Bangladesh; seven million people took the oath of repentance upon his hands (bayt). Upon returning home from the long journey, his mother noticed that he was overwhelmed with joy and asked him for an explanation.

“Mother, Allah has granted me a great honour, seven million non believers have accepted Islam and taken the Oath of repentance upon my hands,” He replied with joy.

Upon hearing this,his mother commented, “My dear son, all the credit is mine. You didn't perform this miracle, I did.”

Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin (r.a) was plunged into deep thought by his mothers reply.

“Indeed mother the credit is yours but if you would kindly explain to me?” he asked modestly.

“My dear son, you were never once suckled without ablution (wudhu) as an infant.”

It was the blessing of breast-feeding in the state of ablution that seven million people repented upon your hands and embraced Islam. Such are the effects of the mother's milk.

STORY 2: Once an Interview of a woman living in the city of Sargoda appeared in the newspaper. She was a mother of 3 brave and courageous sons, who were all colonels in the military army.

The interviewer asked, “It must be a great honour to be a mother of 3 brave colonels. Which special deed of yours earned you this reward of being gifted with such courageous children.''

She replied, “I am an ordinary Muslim woman. However, I had heard a pious servant of Allah once say that children should always be suckled in the state of ablution, thus I never breast-fed any of my children without ablution. Perhaps this small deed was granted acceptance and due to it Allah has granted me such honour.”

It is a great bounty if a mother breast-feeds her child with ablution in present times however if she is unable to do so, she should at least engage herself in the remembrance of Allah. Under no circumstances should the mother breast-feed her child with her eyes glued to the television watching shameless scenes.

Remember! Breast-feeding the child whilst committing sins will make the child disobedient to Allah as well as the parents. ( To be continued in our next issue...Stay tuned for more on breast-feeding and tahneek )

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TRAVELING WITH THE PASSPORT OF LOVE Hazrat Moulana Idrees Kandhalwi (RA), the author of Ma'arif-ul-Qur'aan narrated the following story: There was a young man living in the city of Lahore. He had an intense desire in his heart to go for Hajj. When the Hujjaj returned from their journey of Hajj, this young man would go and ask them about their voyage. He would listen to their stories with love and enthusiasm.

On one occasion, he began his enquiries about Hajj, before the season. He learnt that the Hujjaj embarked from this journey from the city of Karachi.

Hence he found his way to the railway station. Thereafter, he wandered from one place to another requesting each and every person there to show him which train goes to Karachi. He spent several days wandering and searching for the correct train at the railway station. Finally, a conductor felt sorry for the milkman and assisted him by allowing him to board the train. Once the train arrived in Karachi, he dismounted.

Upon reaching Karachi, once again this young man started questioning the people there, about the next measure to take. Someone guided him towards the Hajj camp. The Hajj camp was like a small town with people everywhere. This young man watched the groups of Hujjaj boarding the ship everyday and his desire and longing to go for Hajj increased. His heart yearned and ached as he watched them board the ship. He neither had a passport nor a ticket or money but he possessed the true desire and love in his heart.

As the days passed he noticed that employees wearing special uniforms were allowed to carry goods to the ship.

Hence he made friends with one of the attendants. One day he asked the attendant to allow him to wear his uniform so that he can assist him to carry the luggage on the ship. The attendant agreed and the young milkman grasped the opportunity. He dressed in the attendant's uniform and carried the luggage to the ship several times until no baggage remained. In the end, he sent the attendant's clothes back with someone and hid in one corner of the ship.

There were thousands of people there on the ship so no one paid any attention to him in particular. His heart was immensely saturated in the love of Allah and as a result he traveled with the ticket of emotion and the passport of love. Passengers on the ship were given individual rooms to reside and rest. However this poor young man passed his time hidden in one place where he could only sit comfortably. He made friends with one of the personnel there and requested him to inform him when they reached Jeddah.

After months of sailing, when the ship finally sailed towards the shore and the bright lights shone showing signs of the city of Jeddah approaching, he was informed. The young milkman stood on the deck of the ship and dived into the sea. His friend, the personnel on the ship was startled at the unexpected occurrence that took place and waited for the milkman to appear on the surface. However there was no sign of the milkman and his friend assumed that he had drowned.

The five days of Hajj passed and finally on the fifth day when the Hujjaj performed their Tawaf-e-Ziyarah, the ship employee , saw the milkman dressed like an Arab exiting the Haram Shareef.

He says, “I walked towards him and asked, Are you not the same person who dived into the sea?”

“Yes, I am” Replied the milkman.

“Whatever happened to you?”

“Come with me…” he said.

I paced behind him towards a brand new car that had a well dressed chauffeur on the driving seat. He opened the door for us and we sat in the car. After a while, we reached a beautiful mansion. The milkman took me with him and we walked into a beautiful lounge. He called his worker and asked him to bring some food for me. The servant complied. I could not contain my suspense any longer and asked him how he had survived.

He said, “Imagine that chauffer driven car is mine and this mansion belongs to me too!”

He went on explaining,” my heart was desirous of seeing the house of Allah and I boarded the ship without a ticket or passport. I prayed to Allah that, “Oh Allah, I have come all the way to see your house and now I hand myself over to you” saying this, I dived into the sea. I didn't know how to swim so I kicked myself to and fro until the waves wheeled me towards the shore. I looked around and I saw that there was a fence enclosing the entire shore with locked gates. On one side of the gates was a beautiful mansion.

As I sat and pondered over the events that had taken place, my gaze fell upon two men struggling to milk a cow. Despite their attempts, they failed to milk the cow. They struggled for about half an hour until they

26

were worn out and beat. Since I could not converse in Arabic, I signaled them to let me milk the cow. The tired men realized the gates were locked and went to inform the director.

(The director's wife had given birth to a boy a few months ago and was advised by the doctors to feed him strictly on cow's milk. Hence the director had bought a cow and appointed two milk men to milk it. Since, these two men were not professionally trained they were unable to provide the baby with the adequate amount of milk) The two men notified the director about this man. The director handed over the keys to them. Hence they opened the gates and allowed me in. In view of the fact that this was my profession I was fairly experienced in it. I walked up to the cow, stroked it and thereafter sat down and within no time handed over about 8 litres of milk to them.

This made the director's wife very happy and she insisted that I should be employed. The director asked me who I was and where I came from. I told him that I was an ordinary milkman from Pakistan driven by the extreme desire to perform Hajj. He kept insisting that I should stay there and milk his cows but I told him that I have come to perform Hajj. He said, “Don't worry; you will perform Hajj this year.”

Next day I was summoned by the director's father-in-law who owned a big farm in the country side. I was given the job of milking the cows and on the first day when I finished milking the cows, the milk was far greater in quantity than their daily amount. His father-in-law was so happy that after every few minutes he told me that I should stay with him. I was also adamant and kept insisting that I wanted to go for Hajj. For three consecutive days he persuaded me to stay there but I insisted upon going for Hajj. At the end of the third day he said to me that he would send me for Hajj, on condition that I stayed with him thereafter. I said I would go for Hajj, however I would think over the latter.

Thus, I performed my Hajj, thereafter expressed my desire to reunite with my family before him. He insisted that I would have to stay with him, as he had bought a new house which he would give me, he would also give away his new car and a driver to me. All I had to do is provide my family's details so he could make the arrangements and call my family for settlement. I would then be able to go for Hajj every year. Hence, my family would also be coming in a week's time. Imagine, Allah has blessed me with a new house, a new car, a driver and an opportunity to perform Hajj every year.

(Taken from Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s Khutbaate-Faqeer part 11)

MY CLOTHES FELL...

CONCEALING FACTS CAN LEAD TO MISUNDERSTANDING Generally concealing information from each other creates misunderstanding between spouses. As the saying goes, that a man always hides his salary and a woman always hides her age!

By and large the need for concealment only arises when there is something suspicious. This leads to fights and squabbles in the home.

Couples are therefore encouraged and advised to be sincere with each other. Once they adapt sincerity and truthfulness and gain each other's confidence, Allah Ta'ala makes their lives blissful. How long can one hide something for? One day surely it will come out in the open! Hence couples should be open and honest with each other about everything right from the beginning.

FAMOUS JOKE… Once a woman heard a crashing sound and asked her husband what happened. He shouted from inside, “My clothes fell!”

Surprised, she retorted, “Clothes don't crash on the ground with such a THUD!” At length he replied, “… well, I was inside the clothing!”

Likewise if one hides information partially the other will eventually find out due to curiosity.

Therefore it is better to be truthful right from the beginning.

(Taken from: Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s ‘Exemplary Married Life’)

WIN WIN WIN

1.WHO WAS THE FIRST HORSEMAN IN ISLAM? 2.WHO WAS THE FIRST TEACHER OF ISLAM SENT BY RASULULAH SALLAL LAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM TO MADINA MUNAWARRAH? 3.WHO BUILT THE FIRST PRISON IN ISLAM?

ARTISTS COMP

NEXT DRAWING COMPETITION DRAW ANY FRUIT AND WRITE THE SUNNATS OF EATING ON IT

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PROBLEM PAGE Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuhu May Allah grant you a long healthy life. Ameen. My mind is spinning and I am in total confusion. Last year I got a text from an anonymous boy .I took it as a joke and texted him back. That was the beginning of our communication. He enquired about my personal detail such as my age, my hobbies etc.

Now, I find myself deeply involved in a very unislamic and unlawful relationship with this man. No one knows about this pathetic affair but I can not sleep at night and I feel restless every now and then. I feel ashamed to mention that he is twice my age but I just can not resist being in touch. When I go to religious gatherings, I feel a great feeling of remorse overpowering me and I repent to Allah, but it all fizzles away within a short period of time. Help me I dwell in the dimness of sin and guilt but fail to progress towards the light of truth…

Walaykumus salaam warahmatullahi wabarakatuhu, The Holy Qur'aan says, 'And do not go close to zina…'

Always remember that the definition of zina is not only confined to the revolting act but contains acts of gazing, touching, corresponding whether by speech or text messages or internet, in chatrooms, with any non related member of the opposite sex.

I am grieved to learn about your sorrowful condition. However, I am happy that you have enough remorse in your heart to seek guidance and help. The effect of sin is that it keeps the heart troubled with grief and anxiety. No matter how successfully a sin is concealed, or carried out with secrecy and satisfaction, without fear of reprimand, it will still leave behind a feeling of guilt that will continue to haunt the sinner long after the sin has been committed.

Your dilemma is not new or surprising to me as countless girls fall prey to the unlawful texting, taking it as a joke. Any act that violates the commands of Allah and ignores the teaching of the prophet sallal lahu alaihi wasallam is defined as sin. How can you commit sin and put it neatly in the category of joking? How can you perpetually break the commands of Allah and expect to lead a peaceful life? If he is twice your age then he is more than likely already married…? How can you trample over the rights of another woman? My dear the mind deceives itself when it says, 'It's just a joke or a prank' The mind betrays itself when it searches and flips through the western and nonIslamic catalogues for peace and enjoyment.

Furthermore all his text messages coated with honey are mere baits to which you are groundlessly falling an easy prey .

NEVER regard any sin as small, think of the magnanimity of Your Lord… is it worth disobeying such a Merciful and Compassionate creator? Never regard any sin as trivial as verily small pebbles collectively form mountains.

Thus what you need to do is fulfil the conditions of Taubah, 1.Let the feeling of Regret and shame overpower the heart and make a firm intention not to disobey Allah ever again. Repent sincerely.

2. No matter how strong the desire to text back and keep in touch with this gross man arises in your heart, stand steadfast upon your tauba.

3.Set aside a fixed time daily wherein you can contemplate upon Allah's bounties .Think how one uses the very limbs and organs given by the Creator to disobey Him. Ruminate over the different types of food that you find on the dining table and reflect upon man's trifling nature. How can one disobey the Merciful Allah who feeds him day and night? This contemplation should be an indispensable part of your daily routine.

4.Abandon all bad company 5.Realize that this world is a transient abode and man has been sent here to set up and make provisions for the hereafter. Start preparing for death and the hereafter.

Once you satisfy these conditions you will find your feet walking towards the light of truth away from the darkness of sin. Since whosoever satisfies these conditions undoubtedly comes under the umbrella of “Toubatun Nasuha” as defined by the Mufassireen.

Please do not displease Allah in order to please this idiotic man who has no shame or value for the honour and dignity of a woman.

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BIOGRAPHY OF THE KNIG OF THE UNIVERSE TRANSLATION OF: HAZRAT MOULANA QAMRUZ ZAMAAN DB’S AHSANUS-SIYYAR BAY'AT AL AQABAH OOLA (THE FIRST OATH IN THE VALLEY OF AQABAH) During the Hajj season, Rasoolullah Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam would frequent the tents of the pilgrims at the plains of Mina to invite the pilgrims to Islam. In the first year, six people from Madinah Munawwarah accepted Islam and promised to return the next year. Through these people, Islam and Rasoolullah Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam became the subject of discussion in Madinah Munawwarah, causing twelve more pilgrims to present themselves before Rasoolullah Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam the following year.

They met in a valley near Aqabah (which is about two miles away from Makkah). Rasoolullah Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam invited them to submit to the one and only creator, Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'alah. From the depth of their hearts they cried out, “Aamanna” (we have accepted and believed), and took oath of the following things: !We shall only worship the One Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'alah and we will not ascribe any partner to Him. !We shall not steal. !We shall not indulge in adultery and fornication. !We shall not kill our children. !We shall not slander anyone. !We shall comply with all your orders (we will not disobey you).

These new Muslims now requested Rasoolullah Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam for a teacher and a guide to teach them how to practice on their religion. Rasoolullah Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam sent a practising companion to teach them.

His name was Hazrat Mus'ab bin Umair R.A born in a wealthy and elite family, he had lived in the lap of luxury. He used to tour the streets of Makkah al Mukarramah mounted on pedigree horses as slaves ran circles around him. His garments, scented with different kinds of perfumes, would be worth no less than hundreds of Dirhams per pair.

When he was bestowed with the wealth of Islam, the material wealth of this world became worthless in his eyes. He reached the stage of spiritual upliftment whereby worldly resources now became a burden. Now, this teacher of righteousness covered his body with no more than one single sheet.

Upon reaching Madinah Munawwarah he was accommodated at As'ad bin Zararah's house R.A and he immediately set about teaching what had already been revealed of the Holy Qur'aan. He would also give detailed commentaries (Tafseer) and enjoin the practice of these teachings. He came to be known as “Muqarri” in the circles of Madinah Munawwarah. (Nabiyye Rahmat; Rahmatul lil Aalameen) BAY'AT AL AQABAH THANI (THE SECOND OATH AT THE VALLEY OF AQABAH) With the efforts of Mus'ab bin Umair R.A the Muqarri of Madinah Munawwarah, and his twelve companions, Islam spread right through Madinah Munawwarah and even extended to Quba in the outskirts of the holy city. Hazrat Mus'ab bin Umair R.A.'s madrassah was a madrassah of love. Everything that was taught here revolved around love, generosity and self sacrifice.

Whereas, 'Fana' (total annihilation of the ego) is the final stage in spiritual advancement to the Mashaaikh of this age, this was stage one in the Khanqah (spiritual sanctuary) of Hazrat Mus'ab bin Umair R.A. The Holy Qur'aan mentions the distinct quality of the believers: “Allatheena Aamanu ashaddu hubbal Lillah” Those that have imaan are staunch in their Love for Allah Rasoolullah Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam has said, “La yu'minu ahadakum hatta akoona ahabba ilayhi min waalidihi wa waladihi wan naasi ajma'een.”

None amongst you can reach perfection in Imaan until I become more beloved to him than his parents, children, and the whole of humanity.

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THE NEIGHBOURHOOD OF BAITULLAH Hazrat Moulana Gulam Habeeb Naqshbandi Rahmatullah alaih once narrated an astonishing incident which occurred during one of his voyages to Haj. “Throughout our stay in Makkah Mukarramah a little boy would often come and sit in our company.

Each time he would come, my wife would give him something to eat. His frequent visits made us very fond of him and he too got accustomed to us. Accordingly, the bond of love between us strengthened with each passing day.

Sensing that the days for our departure were drawing near, my wife informed him with an intimation of concern, 'Sonny, we will be leaving soon …but if you wish to join us you are welcome.' Thereafter, my wife advised him at length about all the luxuries he would attain if he were to accompany us back home.

Hearing this, there was a flicker of hope in the child's eyes and he enquired about the different things he would find there. The child listened to every luring detail as my wife emphasized on the comfort and lavishness of life in our country. He looked dazed and thought for a while. After moments of thought-provoking silence he raised his head and pointed towards the Baitullah and asked, 'Will I find this in your country?'

My wife refused and the boy immediately said, 'In that case I do not want to come…I cannot leave the Baitullah for any luxury of the world! I wish to remain in the neighbourhood of the Baitullah!”

Allahu-Akbar kabeerah! Can you imagine! A little child who barely has the necessities of life knows the value of the Baitullah. He is ready to sacrifice the temporal luxuries of life in order to stay in the neighbourhood of the Baitullah. Subhanallah!

[Taken from Khutbat -e Faqeer part 11]

VIRTUES OF MAQAME-IBRAHIM Allah Ta'ala states, “Accept Maqame Ibrahim as a Musalla” (Surah Baqarah) Anyone who performs Salaah behind the Maqam has attained safety. (Sahih Bukhari) Rasululah (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said, “All the past and future sins of a person who offers two Rakaats Salaah behind Maqame Ibrahim are forgiven. And one who offers two rakaats behind the Mihzab is cleansed of all his sins just as he was on the day his mother gave birth to him.” He further said, “Anyone who offers two rakaats salaah around the Ka'aba is relieved of all his sins just as he was the day his mother gave birth to him. ”

FOUR QUALITIES IN A PIOUS WIFE The Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) has described four characteristics of a good wife.

Obedience- She obeys her husband and satisfies him by accomplishing whatever obligations he requests her to do. Parents should try to instill sentiments of service and obedience into their children from childhood. Young girls are naïve and obstinate, hence they tend to fight with their husbands on trivial issues. Obedience and compliance are commendable attributes found in pious women.

2. Pleasing to the eye- the wife should be a source of satisfaction and contentment to the husband's heart. This means that whenever the husband looks at her his heart is filled with joy and happiness. To achieve this it is important for the woman to stay neat and tidy in the house Woman have a tendency to remain unkempt and disheveled within the house. Moreover, they love to get dressed when going out. They apply sweet fragrances when going out but remain smelly in the house. The Shariah has regarded this totally impermissible and has commanded women to stay orderly and smart within their homes. Furthermore, the Shariah advises women to welcome their husbands with a smile on the face.

3. Fulfills any pledge taken by the husband- if her husband takes a vow or oath then she tries to accomplish it.

4. Protects his wealth and honour-This means that she safeguards her chastity and protects his assets in his absence.

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LOOKING FOR A SPOUSE??

Once there was a very handsome, pious and well educated man whose parents prompted him time and again to get married. They had suggested many marriage proposals which he ultimately spurned .The parents considered his behavior rather ridiculous and suspected that he may have someone else in mind. Each time the parents directed his attention towards a girl he would say, “She's not the one.”

The young man simply wanted a girl who was religious and practicing, thus one evening his mother arranged for him to meet a girl who fit the frame.

On that evening, the young man and girl were left to talk and discuss.

Owing to his refined character, the young man permitted the lady to start the conversation. The young girl asked the man about his life, his education, his friends, his family, his habits, his hobbies, his lifestyle, his enjoyment, his past time, his experiences, his shoe size…..

The young man replied to all her questions without tiring. The young girl virtually took up all of his time and she felt accountable and guilty. Looking somewhat ashamed she asked the young man if he had any questions.

The young man said, “Its ok, I only have 3 questions.”

“Wow” thought the young girl, “only three. “ His first question was: 'Whom do you love the most, someone whose love nothing could overcome?'

She said, “This is an easy question, my mother.”

He then asked her: 'You said you read Qur'aan in abundance, how many surats do you know the meaning of?”

Hearing this she went scarlet with embarrassment and said: “I don't know the meaning of any surah yet but I'm hoping to learn soon… as I've been a bit busy lately.”

The third question: “I have been approached for my hand in marriage, by girls that are a lot prettier than you, why should I marry you?”

The young girl was outraged upon hearing this far-reaching remark; she stormed off to her parents with fury and said I don't want to marry a boy who insults my beauty and intelligence. Moreover, the young man and his parents were once more, left without an agreement of marriage.

This time the young man's parents were truly annoyed and said what did you say to send her off fuming? The family was so good, pleasant and religious just as you had wanted. What did you say that angered her?

The young man said: “The first question I asked her was that whom did she love the most and she said her mother.” The parents said, “So what's so wrong with that?”

He replied, “No one is a true Muslim until he loves Allah and His messenger sallallahu alaihi wasallam more than any thing in the world. If a woman loves Allah and the prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam more than anyone, she will love me and respect me and will remain faithful to me due to the fear and love for Allah in her heart. Moreover, we can share this love because this love is far greater than the diminishing lust for beauty.”

Thereafter, I asked her regarding her claim of abundant recitation of the Qur'aan, if she knew the meaning of any surah.

She said, “I haven't had time yet.”

So I thought of the Hadith, “All humans are dead except those who have knowledge.”

She has lived for twenty years yet has not found time to seek knowledge. Why should I marry a girl who is not aware of her rights and responsibilities, besides what will she impart to my children, apart from negligence. Since the woman is the Madressa (school) for the child and the unsurpassed teacher, it is essential for her to be equipped with the adequate knowledge of Deen. Furthermore, a woman who has no time for Allah will have no time for her husband.

The third question I posed to her was that loads of gorgeous women who were far superior than her in beauty had approached me for marriage, why should I choose her from amongst all?

That is why she stormed off, getting irritated.

The young man's parents said, “That is a horrible thing to say, let's go back to their house and apologize.”

The young man said, “I said this deliberately to test whether she could control her anger. When someone asked the Prophet (Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam) how to become pious; he said, “Do not get angry, do not get angry, do not get angry , because anger is from Shaytaan.”

If a woman cannot control her anger with a stranger she has barely met, do you think she will be able to control it with her husband?

Moral : The attributes to search for in any potential partner are: Love for Allah Ta'ala and his Messenger (Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam) Knowledge of the Deen combined with the commitment to practice upon it.

Having control over oneself in times of anger pooled with the willingness to compromise.

May Allah make every marriage stand on the foundation of Allah's love and grant all married couples a blissful married life. ( Sent by : Sister Farzana Randera U.K.)

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WA AASHIRU HUNNA BIL MA’ROOF Deeds of devoutness that sow seeds of Love…

My Sheikh, Hadrat Moulana Murshide Alam (RA) {Hadrat Moulana Gulam Habib Naqshbandi R.A} related this incident of his life just a year before his demise. He said, “ Once I was performing ablution and my wife was assisting me by pouring the water. Whilst pouring water her attention was diverted and she slightly erred. I scolded her but she remained silent and helped me to complete the rest of the ablution the way I wanted.

Walking towards the mosque the verses, 'wa ashiru hunna bilma'ruf” came to my mind and I reflected upon the events that had just taken place. I thought to myself that without paying heed to Allah's intercession I had harshly told my wife off. I felt guilty and accountable, as the poor woman had not even raised a single word of protest in defense.

Taking into consideration how I could possibly lead the congregational prayer after having dealt severely with my wife and breaking her heart, I turned to leave. I feared in my heart that how such a person's prayers could possibly be accepted.

Hence, I requested the people in the mosque to wait and immediately returned home. As soon as I reached home, I apologized for the way I had behaved. My wife smiled and said she had already forgiven me and had forgotten about it by then! After apologizing and being forgiven, I proceeded to the Masjid and lead the congregational prayer.”

Our pious elders were an ideal example for all of us as they led a 'perfect and blissful married life'.

ILE FRAG ITH CARE They lived with love and harmony.

W E L D AN H

Today even whilst we are hafiz, qari, alim, Sufi or pious Muslims what kind of relationship do we have with our spouses? Have we not made our dwelling places like jahannum with our bad behaviour and misconduct? How do we expect to be forgiven on the Day of Judgment then? May Allah Almighty forgive all our past sins through his infinite Grace and Mercy! Ameen.

After delivering a speech, the lecturer often summarizes his topic in a few words .

We say this is the essence of the topic. Similarly, the Prophet of Allah (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) summarized the teachings of his entire life and summed them up in a few sentences during his final moments. He advised us to remain unwavering regarding our faith by holding steadfast to Tawheed and thereafter he warned us to fear Allah, pertaining to our wives and subordinates.

Mull over this… firstly Allah Almighty interceded on behalf of the wives by saying Wa aashiru hunna bil ma'roof .

Thereafter the Prophet (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) cautioned the men on behalf of them saying wa maamalakat aymaanukum.

Considering the Almighty's intercession as well as the Prophet (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam)'s advice on behalf of the wives, husbands should lead a life of righteousness. As a result, a spray of Allah Ta'ala's blessings will descend upon their homes.

Taken From :Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s ‘Exemplary Married Life’ EVEN A SMILE IS PIETY! It has been stated in a Hadith :( words to the effect) “Allah Ta'ala smiles at the couple who look at each other with affection and smile.”

Hadrat Aisha Siddiqa (RA) said that the Prophet of Allah (SAW) always entered the house with a smile on the face.

Husbands should take heed. They should leave their 'bureau dilemmas' behind at work and enter the house with a smile on their faces. As a result, earning the reward of a Sunnah and a beaming smile in return from the wife!

Similarly, the wife should make an effort to welcome her husband with a cheerful and smiling face.

She should refrain from displaying a frowning and dismal attitude but rather return her husband's smile with love. Taken From :Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s ‘Exemplary Married Life’

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MY DEAR BABY, My dear baby, Firstly, I would like to thank Allah subhanahu Wa Ta'ala for giving me this opportunity to reflect over my past actions and deeds with regards to our relationship; a very special mother- daughter relationship.

Jazakillah my child for opening my eyes so that I can rectify my mistakes before it is too late.

My darling, according to the teachings of our Beloved Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam, children too have rights to enjoy love and affection from their parents. How neglectful of me to forget such a great action. I beg Allah to forgive me.

The Prophet (Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam)'s behaviour towards children was demonstrably kind. Instances of our Prophet (Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam) displaying affection for children are reported in the Hadith: Abu Huraira (Radiallahu Anhu) reported that the Prophet (Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam) kissed his grandson, Hassan Bin Ali (Radiallahu Anhu) in the presence of Al Aqra bin Habis,who witnessing this remarked, “I have ten children and I have never kissed anyone of them.” The Messenger of Allah looked at him and said, “He who does not show mercy to others will not be shown mercy. (Sahih Bukhari.) There are numerous such incidents which reflect the Prophet Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam's love and affection for children..

If our Prophet (Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has such towering levels of love and respect for small children then how can I, a mother who claims to be an Ummati put a deaf ear to all your personal needs? How can I forget the fact that children are a trust from Allah and He will ask on the Day of Judgment regarding the manner in which you were raised? What are luxuries in comparison to quality time spent with children? Yes, I do agree that I have been harsh with you sometimes but my child keep in mind that it is the parents' right to rebuke their children to protect them from physical and moral harm. There have been times when I hated your dressing, talking and actions but instead of listening to me you just ignored my advice and guidance; hence the barrier between us grew.

The Qur'aan says, “O you who believe save yourselves and your families from a fire whose fuel is man and stones.”(Surae-Tahreem) Keeping in context this ayah I tried to discipline you but your sensitive nature and my aggressive moods would often clash making the atmosphere bitter .Hence I gave up on you and resorted to silence .Thereafter I started spending my free time with friends….

My child, so much has dawned upon me; my Saturday afternoons going from one friend's house to another for tea parties, what a waste! And you chatting away with only Allah knows who, what a grave sin! From now on we shall go for taleem and make ourselves part and parcel of the righteous, a group chosen and liked by Allah, the Almighty.

Alhamdulillah, my baby, you are such a gifted child; all those medals and shields lined up in the sitting room cabinet, your taking interest in baking and sewing and how inconsiderate of me to shut you off completely. Form now on every Saturday mornings we will spend time according to your wishes.

Every last Sunday of the month, I grant you permission to invite all your Halqa friends on condition that the dress code will be Islamic. On this day I will give you a treat of your choice, whatever you wish for, the day is all yours. We will enjoy the day together, play lots of games, ask Islamic quiz questions and dish out prizes. Oh! How excited I am feeling to be with you my child.

My child, throw away the T.V, music system, and cell phone. I am prepared to join hands with you to defrost this icy relationship. I am ready to replace the emptiness in your life with unconditional love. Come to me my child, and shed all those tears you have bottled up within you. Embrace me so that the years of frost settled on our hearts melts away .

I love you … Mummy (Umme-Yahya)

My dear baby, Yes, you're still my baby and indeed I love you very much. I want to tell you that I am very lonely and need your vibrant character around me as I unremittingly cherished your witty sense of humor ever since you were young. I miss those hugs and squeezes everyday that I received before you left for school along with the kisses at bedtime. Moreover, I miss those shopping trips when we would diligently hunt for something for your thin slinky body to wear.

Yes, your cell phone rather irritates me, but you begged so much for one that I was left with no other alternative but to buy it for you. In view of that I ended up buying one for your younger brother and sister too. Now all three of you have your heads stuck in it all day. If you don't like it, why do you keep so busy with it all the time? Why don't you just give it back to me?

Whenever I started a conversation with you, you would say, “Just a minute,” as your phone buzzed, and then never returned to complete the conversation… I then gave up calling on you… now again you are blaming me for the relationship you started with that boy saying that I am the one who didn't give you companionship. You lost yourself form me and seemed confident and independent of me.

Besides, the money I gave you was not to fritter away on CDs and perfumes. You were not in for so many meals so I hoped that my baby will at least buy herself, a plate of food. So what on earth have you been surviving on?

About your dressing… jeans and T-shirt is fine with me, and you know, each time you expressed your intention to change, it was coupled with a Dua in my heart, “O Allah, materialize my baby's intention.” I wasn't really scornful; it can only be a build up of insecurity from within your heart that made you feel that way… we can talk about it if you like.

The idiot box was not to entertain you. My dear, you have abused its usage, it was to assist you with your assignments and projects acknowledging your frequent need for a library.

Anyway, I would like to say this to you, “Congratulations for bridging the gap of misunderstanding that was tearing us apart day by day. I am glad that you, on your own accord realized the detrimental effects of the phone, TV and your associates- I was forever aware of the 'intelligent child' deep within you.”

“Welcome back to me, your mummy, your best friend… I invite you to dinner tonight with your favourite meal- Pasta…”

I love you.

Mummy ( Anonymous Sister)

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PRAISE YOUR WIFE!!

The husband should appreciate and praise his wife for the accomplishment of her chores. If the food is delicious, the house is spick and span or things are prepared on time then the husband should commend his wife.

To commend the wife for good cooking is a Sunnah of the Prophet (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam). It has been stated in the Hadith that whenever food was presented to the Beloved Master (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) he would either remain silent if it was not appetizing or he would say 'the food is delicious' if he enjoyed the food.

He would encourage the person who cooked the food by his approving words.

YOU KNOW HONEY,NO-ONE MAKES PIZZA LIKE YOU...

THE PROPHET (SALLAL LAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)'S TECHNIQUE OF RECTIFICATION. The standard principle is that a person who is rebuked for making mistakes ought to be commended for good performance as well. If a woman is praised generously when she has done well she will inevitably tolerate being criticised for something she has done incorrect and will try to rectify her mistake in future.

The beautiful approach of the Prophet (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) in the rectification of the Sahabaahs, serves as a beacon for all. Once there was a Sahabi in the time of the Prophet (SAW), who failed to get up for Tahajjud (predawn prayer). The Beloved Master (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) summoned him.

When he came, the Prophet of Allah (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) praised him generously and thereafter added that it would be a bonus if he would start praying his Tahajjud too.

The Muhadditheen have indicated that the Beloved Master (Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam) meant to direct the Sahabi towards the performing of Tahajjud salaah. His approach was so tactful that he began by praising the Sahabi. Hence it had a positive effect.

Likewise when the wife accomplishes all the household tasks she deserves her husband's praise. If she acquires this then she will dutifully tolerate a few critical remarks from him as well. However if the husband only criticises her then she will feel that is all he knows and he is not interested in any thing she does.

The technique applied in the training of animals.

Modern day science has proven that animals respond well when they are shown signs of approval.

At a single gesture or blow of a whistle from the trainer, the dolphin jumps high in the air and kicks the ball .As soon as she kicks the ball she comes to the trainer and he rewards her with a few small fish.

What is this? This is a sign of approval and appreciation that promotes premium performance.

Once I happened to visit a friend in America.

Just as I entered the house I was greeted with, 'Assalam-ualaykum!'

I replied and looked around in amazement, as I could not see any one other than the host. Noticing my astonishment he pointed towards a parrot in the cage. He further explained that this parrot greeted all the guests with the words of salaam and bid them farewell with a 'good-bye' When I asked him how he had trained the parrot so well he said, “It is very simple. The best way to train an animal is to reward him for every performance. Hence the first time my parrot spoke a word clearly, I showered him with love and rewarded him with seeds. As a result the parrot learnt swiftly how to speak.” If animals are rewarded and encouraged they are stimulated to perform well then why would human beings not respond to appreciation?

If the husband will show appreciation to his wife for the accomplishment of tasks then she will be motivated to excel.

Once she senses that it makes her husband happy she will endeavour to work harder. If someday the husband returns home and finds his wife on the prayer mat reciting the Qur'aan or Tasbeeh he should voice his approval. It takes only a few seconds to say, 'Don't you look lovely on the prayer mat' but its effects are guaranteed.

The husband will notice that these words of encouragement have motivated his wife WOW! YOU LOOK to spend more time on the prayer mat. She senses that sitting on the prayer mat GORGEOUS gives joy to her husband therefore she tries to devote her time to worship. A small ON THE PRAYER MAT phrase of approval wins the wife's love and motivates her towards Deen. We deduce from this that it is human nature to seek approval and appreciation after accomplishing a task. Hence it is necessary to commend the wife to show appreciation and get love in response. (Taken from Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s ‘Exemplary Married Life’)

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GENUINE GEMS ACTIVITIES REPORT BY ASMA KAPADIA As I walked through the gates of Sister Z.Motala's residence, I pondered over what had drawn me and many other young girls here to spend the entire afternoon. Didn't we have exciting things to do at home or was Allah Ta'ala utilizing this Youth Program as a means of a turning point in our lives? As the first Youth Program started, my query was answered. Muallima Raeesa directed young girls, in her succinct lecture to value their period of youth by describing youth as a blessing of Allah. She pointed out that this blessing of Allah could be utilized in acquiring the bounties of this world and the hereafter collectively. Furthermore, points put across on valuing youth were backed by a very blessed Hadith wherein Rasulullah (Salallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) narrated that one should value youth before old age (Words to the effect). She concluded by saying that youth who grow up in the worship of Allah will be from amongst those who will attain a place under the throne of Allah on the day of Qiyamah.

This was followed by the recitation of a Nasheed, 'Wash away the filth and change my dead heart' by sister Munira in her melodious voice.

Thereafter the editor drew parallels cautioning girls against the consequences of committing sins.

Furthermore, light was shed on the harms of committing sin by the translation of the Qur'aanic verse: “Mayy ya'mal soo an yujza bihi” translated as, “Whosoever commits evil will get punished for it.” This verse was compared to the fact that near a flame, one ought to feel the heat, likewise near ice; a sense of chilliness is felt.

Similarly when a being commits a sin, the consequences are bound to be inevitable. The various consequences of committing sin were put across, specifically: (1) The memory of the sinner is diminished. (2)The body of sinner is weakened. (3) Ecstasy of worshiping and Dua is denied to the sinner by Allah. (4)The sinner is deprived of the pleasure of waking up for Tahajjud. (5) Noor from the sinner’s face is taken away. (6) Allah places little burners of anxiety and depression under the heart of the sinner, always blazing the sinner in a furry of fretfulness and despair. The program ended with a Munajat, 'Me tere samne jukh raha hu Khuda' recited by Sister Munira.

Four weeks later, on the 29th of July, the second youth program was held. The program was started off with a recitation by Haafiza Humaira, followed by a warm welcome forwarded by a Grade 8 student Hajra Qudsiya. Moving ahead, Haafiza Humaira gave a talk encouraging the youth to make Nabi (Salallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) their role model by following each and every Sunnah. Thereafter Muallima Faheema introduced the topic of Islamic dressing, enlightening the girls on the harms of immodest dressing and emulating men. The girls were reminded to be proud of their Islamic identity. Subsequently, the editor delivered a brief but inspiring talk regarding abandoning of sins.

The talk was commenced with the translation of the verse, “Wa zaru zaahiral ithmi wa baatinah” meaning, “Leave all those sins that you commit openly and secretly.”

The editor clarified that when one has cancer, the doctor treats the body part

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that is affected by the tumour, or else there is a high percentage of the tumour spreading. Likewise the effects of perpetually breaking Allah's command result in the cancer of sin amplifying through out the entire body causing spiritual damage. Thus it is particularly necessary to undergo a laser treatment of tauba to be effectively cured.This talk was followed by group discussions ,wherein we were guided on techniques to combat the serious ailment of sin. Refreshments were served and subsequently the girls took part in an impromptu speech competition.This contest was judged

by Sister Khadija Lunat and Sister Khadija Bobat.

Shabnam Patel scored the junior award and the senior award was presented to Maryam Motala. The youth program was concluded by a very touching dua made by Muallima Faheema.

The third youth program was conducted four weeks later .The program commenced with the recitation of a verse from Surae A'raaf by Hafiza Humaira.Thereafter, Sister Tayyeba Dawood gave a brief talk on the harms of watching television. Sister Hajra Qudsiya then followed on by shedding light on the evils of listening to music. The topic of Hijab was touched by a grade 11 student Naeema Patel. As the program gradually gained momentum she exposed her inner feelings and invited the girls towards leading a pure and chaste life. Our next speaker Sister Atiya Motala, another grade 11 student delivered a moving speech on the challenges faced by the youth. She left no stone unturned in advising the youth on methods of coping with these challenges .Our editor finally took the program to its climax by conveying a concise yet stimulating talk wherein the girls were directed towards leading a life in submission to Allah. Examples from the lives of Prophets, and pious predecessors were given to elucidate how Allah supports the righteous. This speech was followed by competitions …'The Best Listener Award' was scooped by Naeema Patel by giving an account of the details of the previous youth programs.

Thereafter pass the parcel was played and Asma Kapadia won. 'Arm Wrestling Award 'was awarded to Sister Fatuma. Refreshments were served and as was the routine after every youth program literature was distributed.

On 10th of August the first Zumratul-Afaaif meeting took place at Shining Star Academy where girls gathered around Zuhr time. Salaah was performed in the block outside after which taleem was conducted from Fazaile-Ramadhaan. Whilst the barbeque meal was being prepared the editor addressed the girls, specifically pointing out the aim and purpose of forming the group which was to make a move towards leading a chaste life since the meaning of 'Zumratul-Afaaif' was a group of chaste women. She further said that to provide entertainment within the confines of the Shariah was another objective .Girls filled in questionnaires, shortly followed by a barbeque lunch.

Thereafter we played outdoor games like chicken in the den and racing. Finally the meeting ended and members departed after an energetic day.

The purpose of these youth programs and meeting was achieved as the girls received a field of learning and assistance towards mending their ways.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE YOUTH PROGRAM EXCERPT FROM THE EDITOR'S SPEECH 29TH JUNE 2008 A simple villager once presented himself before Hazrat Moulana Rashid Ahmed Gangohi R.A and requested to become his disciple by taking the oath. Hazrat Moulana Rashid Ahmed Gangohi R.A accepted his request and imparted the customary advice taught at the time of pledge. He advised him on repentance, abstention from sin, the obligatory prayers and so forth.

When he finished, the villager asked, 'Hazrat, why didn't you make me repent from drugs?'

Hazrat Moulana Rashid Ahmed Gangohi R.A. said, 'How was I to know you take drugs?’ Nonetheless, Hazrat devised an effective method for its gradual elimination since he was well aware that abrupt yielding was not an effortless task. He asked the villager to hand over the amount of drugs he took on a daily basis to which the villager complied. Hazrat Moulana Rashid Ahmed Gangohi R.A.then reduced the quantity and returned it to the villager saying that henceforth he should only take the reduced measure given to him. The villager stood engrossed in profound reflection for a while then took the sachet of drugs and flung it away saying, 'I have repented sincerely, hence I will not take any drugs from now on.' Thereafter , he departed.

As expected, the villager soon suffered from severe infirmity due to absolute withdrawal. During this period he sent a message to his sheikh, Hazrat Moulana Rashid Ahmed Gangohi R.A requesting for duas along with an assurance that he will never to return to drugs again. After passing through critical conditions, through Allah's will the villager recovered.

Once he regained his strength, he came to visit his sheikh and presented two rupees as a gift. Hazrat Moulana Rashid Ahmed Gangohi R.A. initially declined however upon the villager's continual insistence eventually accepted the money.

The villager asked, 'Hazrat, you have not asked me what this amount signifies. This is the money I spent on drugs every month. When I repented, my nafs became very happy that from now on I will save two rupees for personal use. As soon as this thought entered my mind I at once made the intention of handing over this money to you as a gift every month.’

Muslim youth should ponder over the courage of this simple villager's steadfastness upon his repentance and should reflect upon the positive effects of a few seconds spent in the company of the pious.The gaze of the ahlul-lah transforms a person to such an extent that one gains the audacity to give up the worst of sins.

WHY DON THE HIJAB -EXCERPT FROM SISTER NAEEMA’S SPEECH 27TH JULY 2008

From the moment an average man steps out of his home in the morning till the time he returns in the evening, marvels at the beauty of countless dolled up women which then results in an involuntary yet bland and discontent feeling within his family unit. Islam teaches men and women to fulfill their demands with their spouses within the framework of the Shariah and resolutely blocks any avenues to every activity liable to lead to a situation contrary to this. Hijab means a full stop to so many unlawful activities. Therefore, Hijab is the greatest female contribution to the welfare of the society since it plays a vital role in the unity of family life.

Divine wisdom instructs women to be the ones to observe the veil for the sake of modesty.

The Prophet sallal lahu alaihi wasallam opposed the idea of self indulgence where men and women freely look at each other and mingle with the sole intention of attracting each other's attention.

The beloved master sallal lahu alaihi wasallam said: (words to the effect) The zina of the eyes is casting a gaze (at the non mehram woman) Allah has cursed the one who looks (at a non mehram female) and the one who is looked at.

(Mishkat) The gaze is an arrow from amongst the arrows of Shaytaan.

The gaze is such an arrow that poisons the heart.

The Ahaadeeth classify the look as the poisoned arrow of Shaytaan. Once induced the poison does its job. Islam therefore tactfully endeavours to put a stop to this surge of immorality which would result in extra -marital relations, pre-marital love affairs and unwanted pregnancies before marriage.

EXCERPTS FROM THE EDITOR’S SPEECH 29TH JUNE 2008

Whilst walking home an old man passed a group of youngsters,who were fussing over some issue.Hence, they stopped him and asked, 'Uncle we are arguing over something. Can you help us out? We were debating whether Allah's mercy and protection rush towards one who has repented after committing sin in abundance, or does Allah’s mercy hasten towards one who has never erred or slipped. Some of us say that it is the one who has never committed sin whilst others say that it is the one who has repented after erring. What is your opinion uncle?”

The old man said, 'I'm not a very wise or learned person but I weave thread. Through my experience I know that my watchful gaze is always on the thread that has broken before. I am extra cautious with that piece of thread and my attention is always towards it lest it should break again. It is possible that Allah's gaze of mercy is directed more towards one who has repented after committing sin, lest he should slip again.’

It is difficult for us to abstain from sins but it is within Allah Ta'ala's power to safeguard us. It is therefore pertinent that we put our faith in Allah and take this bold step, by repenting and making the firm intention of never returning to the life of transgression. Hence let us repent ,here and now.

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WHY WOMEN CRY...

A Little boy asked his mum,” why are you crying?”

“Because I need to.” she said.

“I don't understand,” he said.

His mum just hugged him and said, “ You never will” Later the little boy asked his father, “Why does mother seem to cry for no reason?”

“All women cry for no reason,” his father answered carelessly.

The little boy still wondering why women cry finally asked the old Sheikh. “He would surely know the answer,” he thought.

“Why do women cry so easily, O sheikh?

The sheikh calmly replied, “ When Allah made the woman she had to be special. He made her shoulders strong enough to carry the weight of the world, yet gentle enough to give comfort.

He gave her an inner strength to endure both child birth and the rejection that many times come from her children.

He gave her toughness, to keep going when everybody else gives up, she takes care of the family through sickness and fatigue without complaining.

He gave her sensitivity, to love her children under any and all circumstances, even when her child hurts her badly.

He gave her strength, to carry her husband through his faults and fashioned her from his rib to protect his heart. He gave her wisdom to know that a good husband never hurts his wife, but sometimes tests her strength and her resolve to stand beside him unfalteringly.

Lastly he gave her a tear. This is hers and hers exclusively to use whenever she needs it.

She needs no explanation, no reason, it's hers.

You see my son, the beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears or the beauty of her face or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be seen in her eyes because that is the doorway to her heart- the place where love resides.”

Article forwarded by: LICEF School .

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Let's face it, pollution and antibiotic, insufficient diet, food additives GOOD-BYE SINS and stress are all guaranteed to throw anyone's GOOD-BYE SINS skin off balance.

Sensitive skin is becoming ever more vulnerable to chemical and environmental assault. But Guess what … The leading factor towards insipid, dull and gloomy appearance of the face is perpetually breaking the commands of Allah. The face of a sinner is swathed in gloom as Allah Ta'ala removes the blossom and radiance from such a face. On the other hand the faces of the pious people radiate light (nur) and gloss that goes beyond description.

Tip: For once say good bye to the years of transgression and adapt the life of piety.

Furthermore praying; Allah-u- Almusawiru Almaliku 111 times after every salaah adds luster and radiance to the face.

THEY ARE YOUR GARMENTS …

The purpose of marriage is to safeguard the couple from sin through this sacred bond and guide them towards a pure and chaste life. No other religion can outline the concept of marriage as summarized in the Holy Qur'aan: Hunna libaasul lakum wa antum libasul lahunna.

(They are your garments and you are their garments.)

WHY USE THE WORD 'GARMENTS'?

1. Garments cover the private organs - hence the couple should conceal each other's faults.

2. Garments enhance the personality and character of a person-likewise the wife should be a source of pride and honour to the man and supplement his personality.

3. Garments are the closest to the body- hence the couple needs to get close to each other and create a bond of love and friendship.

The Qur'aan has sketched the most beautiful concept of marriage by using the word 'garments' for the married couple. TAKEN FROM: HAZRAT MOULANA ZULFIQAR AHMAD NAQSHBANDI D.B.’S EXEMPLARY MARRIED LIFE

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VIRTUES OF SALAAH Before writing any thing I would like you to ask yourself a question; what is salaah? Salaah means to worship Allah in a specific and prescribed manner which includes physical and verbal actions. Salaah is an act of worship, and is a pillar of Islam. Allah mentions in the Qur'aan,” Worship of salaah on fixed times has been enjoined on the believers.” In a hadith it is narrated that when any trouble befell on Nabi sallallahu alaihi wasallam he immediately prayed salaah. “Allah keeps relenting towards a person as long as he is engaged in salaah.”

There are many Ahadith pertaining salaah only few are mentioned above. May Allah Ta'ala give us the ability to pray salaah with sincerity. Ameen. Ahmed kapadia.

If a person really believes in Allah, how will he show it? Furthermore, how will it affect his life? For a Muslim, his faith is primarily demonstrated by the five daily prayers called salaah.Salaah which is the second pillar of Islam holds great value in Islam.Listed below are a few virtues of salaah according to the hadith:Salaah is the first thing to be reckoned for on the day of Qiyamah. Salaah is the key to paradise.Salaah is the light of the heart. Salaah is the light of a mu'min.

Salaah is the best form of jihad. Salaah abases the devil. Salaah is the mark of Islam. Salaah intervenes between men and shirk.

It is said in 'Bahjatun- nufus' that once a sahabi was offering tahajjud salaah when a thief came and took away his horse.

He did not break his salaah even though he discerned this. Someone asked him as to why he did not break his salaah and catch the thief. He replied that he was engaged in something far more valuable than the horse.There are many stories pertaining to pious people spending nights in salaah but due to lack of space, I have only mentioned a few. If we would ever come to know about the reality of salaah we would forget the Dunya and focus on salaah. May Allah give us true understanding of salaah and May He give us the hidayat to pray salaah correctly and at fixed times. Ameen.

Zainab Mahomed.

Uthman RA narrates that he heard the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam say, Every Muslim who performs ablution with humility and bows down well at the time of obligatory salaah ,will gain exoneration from his previous sins. Provided that he does not commit a major sin he will remain in that state . ' Zaid bin Khalid juhani RA narrates that the Prophet Sallallahu alaihi wasallam said, “One who performed ablution well and then offered two rakats Salaah, not forgetting therein, all his previous sins will be forgiven.'

Jabir RA narrates that a man came to Rasulullah Sallallahu alaihi wasallam and asked, “Oh Nabi of Allah sallallahu alaihi wasallam, which salaah is the best? The nabi of Allah Sallal lahu alaihi wasallam replied, “In which your standing is long.”

Anas bin Malik RA narrates that the Prophet Sallallahu alaihi wasallam said, “One who offers Fajr prayer with jamaat then sits remembering Allah until the sun rises, subsequently offers two rakats, will be bestowed with the reward of a hajj and umrah. He repeated this statement thrice.”

Mohammed Yusuf Below, I've listed some advantages of salaah:Salaah creates love between the servant and Allah.

Salaah is said to be one of the pillars of Islam.

ESSAYS ON IMAN On the Day of Judgment, every person will be questioned regarding salaah first.

IN THE NEXT ISSUE The face of a person who performed salaah regularly will shine like the sun.

Allah will forgive the person who performs salaah.

ONE WINNER ONLY The Qur'aan says that whosoever prays salaah will go to heaven.

Above, I've listed few advantages of salaah which I hope will be of great benefit to the reader. Inshaallah Hajrabibi Maherban.

THE PRAYER…… THE PRAYER “Oh you who believe! Seek help in patience and prayer.” [Al Qur'aan; 2:153] If you are weighed down with fear or anxiety, stand up right now and pray, your soul will find comfort and solace.

Provided that you perform the prayer sincerely, with a wakeful heart, it is guarantied to have its effects on you.

Whenever the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam was afflicted with any hardships he used to say:” Oh Bilal, give us comfort and call for the prayer”. The prayer was his joy and pleasure; it was the delight of his eyes. The prayer of fear which is performed during the battle was recommended in circumstances wherein limbs are severed , skulls fly, and souls depart from their bodiesa time when strength and resolution can only be derived from heartfelt prayer.

By earnestly performing the five daily prayers we achieve the greatest reward and blessings, specifically an atonement for our sins and an increase in rank with our lord. Prayer is also an effective remedy for our ailments for it instills faith in our soul. As for those who keep away from the mosque and from prayer, unhappiness, dejection and embittered life are eventually their lot.By entrusting one's matters to Allah hence solely depending on Him, believing in His promise, being content with His decree, thinking favorably of Him, waiting patiently for his assistance, the finer fruits of faith are harvested as well as the more prominent characteristics of the believer are exhibited.

Once these qualities are incorporated into the character, one will be at peace concerning the future owing to the absolute reliance on the Lord for everything. As a result one will find ease, help, protection and victory. Naushaba M.A.Nadwi

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PROSTRATION- SCIENTIFIC BENEFITS Your Body receives a huge amount of Electromagnetic waves daily!

Electromagnetic waves penetrate through the Electrical Equipments that are used in addition to the various equipments which one can not do without! These waves are infiltrated through the electrical lights which can not be switched off for merely an hour in certain cases! You are a source which receives vast amounts of Electromagnetic waves! In other words, you are charged with electromagnetic waves without realizing it.

You have a headache! You feel uncomfortable! Laziness, in action and pain in different places… Why do you feel some of these symptoms ? What is the solution from all this??!!

A non Muslim Scientist (from Europe) conducted a research from which he concluded that the best way for the body to eliminate the positive Electromagnetic charges which hurt the body is: By putting the forehead on the ground more than once, so that the ground will discharge the positive harmful Electromagnetic charges! This is similar to the grounding of the buildings where any positive electrical signals (Like thunder) would be discharged through the ground. So, put your forehead on the ground to discharge the positive electrical signals!

What makes this research more amazing is that: The best way is to put your forehead on the ground is while you are positioned to the center of the Earth! This is because you will be able to discharge the Electromagnetic signals in a better and more efficient way!

Furthermore what is more astonishing is that: it is better to put your forehead on the sand. Makkah is scientifically proven to be the center of the Earth! Besides, the Kaa'ba is the exact center of the Earth .Amazing isn't it??

So in a nutshell, “Prostration” in your prayers is: The best way to discharge the harmful electromagnetic signals from your body! It is also the ideal way to be very close to the Almighty who created this universe in such a resourceful way! Allah Almighty always asks us to do things for our own benefit!

There are cases when one won't know the reason for a certain act, but sooner or later, one might be able to find the reason! In any case, you should trust the Almighty Allah and know that whatever you do for Him, is best for you .We do not prostrate to discharge the electromagnetic waves, but to obey the Almighty Allah!

We trust that in His commands, there is always wisdom! Our trust is because He is the Creator, He knows everything!

However, a scientific reason is presented, to clarify that no action prescribed by the Almighty is devoid of wisdom and benefit for his servants. Sent by: Sister Farina Shamsi

THE WOMAN SHOULD TREAT THE INFECTION THAT SLOWLY PUTREFIES HER MARRIAGE Through experience, I believe that men are accountable for mistreating or neglecting the wife.

However, I think that the woman is to be partially blamed for her condition too. Once she sees there is a problem then there is no point in crying and mourning about it. She should put her wits to work and think of a solution for the problem. If her husband is not affectionate towards her or does not take much interest in her then she should try to get to the bottom of this quandary herself She ought to come up with techniques to win her husband back.It is obvious that her neighbor or relative is not going to come and solve her problems, she has to do it herself.

If there is a wound, the best thing is to dress it. Otherwise, it will not heal. If there is severance then the woman has to think of ways to change this condition into one of proximity. There is absolutely no gain in sitting depressed and feeling sorry for herself.

If the woman finds out that her husband is involved in an unlawful relationship then she has two options in front of her. a) She gives him more love than before to create closeness between them b) She starts picking a fight every time he comes home.

Many women opt for the second choice and ruin their relationship further by fighting and quarreling.

(Taken from: Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s “Exemplary Married Life”)

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KEYS FOR A LOCKED HEART??

If for some reason the woman finds that her husband’s heart is locked then she gain entry using the following keys...

FIRST KEY- EYES...

Eyes are keys to a locked heart. The wife can easily gain entry into her husband's heart by using this key. Two twinkling and cheery eyes win over the husband's heart.

A warm melting gaze often conveys a message of love. The wife ought to look at the husband with warmth and compassion in her eyes. The husband will receive the penetrating rays,which will melt his heart and generate love.

SECOND KEY-SOFT SPEECH To use the right expressions and language at the correct instant pulls the cord of romance in the husband's heart and unlocks his sealed heart.

It has been observed that western women are exceedingly open in expressing their feelings (to such an extent that one can feel embarrassed.) whereas the eastern bride remains withdrawn and introvert. This is a grave mistake. Remember to lead a blissful married life the wife has to put her feelings across to her husband. She can be shy and reserved where everyone else is concerned but she must learn to express her emotions to her husband. If her husband seems upset or worried, then she can go near him and say, 'Why does my beloved seem so quiet and silent?'

He will appreciate her concern dipped in soft words and smile. It will change his mood instantly.

Alternatively, upon his arrival she can say, 'I always feel restless until I see you'. Such a statement will cause buds of love to bloom in the husband's heart.

LOOK OUT FOR MORE KEYS IN “EXEMPLARY MARRIED LIFE” COMING OUT SOON, INSHA-ALLAH

When he calls her, she can say, 'At your beck and call'

Such sweet expressions of love and emotion will unite your husband's heart to yours. Furthermore using effective emotional language conveys the message of love.

This is an essential weapon for the wife in addition to two cheery and warm eyes.

THIRD KEY-FRAGRANCE...

Beautiful and appealing fragrance is a key to the bolted doors of the husband's heart .Men and women both welcome and appreciate fine fragrance. Our Beloved Prophet (SAW) loved fine fragrance.

Therefore, the wife should apply light and pleasant fragrance as it revives the heart and generates emotions of love.

Taken from Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.b.’s Exemplary Married Life.)

100 HAJ...

On one occasion, when the respected luminary, Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad D.B. went for Hajj, he read in the news paper about a 120 year old sheikh from Yemen who had come to perform hajj as well.

During his stay there, the old sheikh gave a lecture in which he told the audience that he had performed his first hajj at the age of 20 and since that day, through the Almighty's grace had performed hajj every single year of his life. Can you imagine how much sincerity he had that Allah Ta'ala accepted his presence there and invited him to his house over and over again?

How fortunate he was to have performed 100 hajj!!!

Allahu-Akbar! [From : Khutbat e Faqeer part 11]

QUESTIONS FROM ZAINAB GADIYALI

1.WHICH PROPHET’S CAMEL WILL GO TO JANNAH? 2.WHICH PROPHET’S FISH WILL GO TO JANNAH?

ANSWERS1.HAZRAT SALEH A.S. 2.HAZRAT YUNUS A.S.

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ALLAH’S NAME IS ALREADY ENGRAVED IN THE HUMAN HEART. ALLAH-U-AKBAR!!

EBRAHIM MULLAH

MARYAM BIBI DUDHIA

ASMA

DESAI

UMAIMA NAASIR

MUNEERA

RAEESA MOHAMMED

AISHA BIBI ADAM

MOHAMMED I. MAHERBAAN

AMINA MOTALA

KHADIJA DHUDHIA

ZAINAB S. ITOWALA

NABEELA MUSA

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HUMAIRAA MUSSA

RAFIA MOHAMMED

AMINA S .DAYA

AATIKA GANGAT

RAAZIYA SAYYED

ROSMINA MAHERBAAN

FATIMA PATEL

AFSHEEN KHATRI

JOKES RIDDLES AND FUN PAGE

XX X

Shazeen: I think my teacher loves me.

Nabeela: How can you tell?

Shazeen: She keeps putting kisses by my sums.

Mum: Come on, Luqman, eat your breakfast; you'll be late for school.

Luqman: I don't want to go to school. The teachers don't like me, the children don't like me- even the caretaker doesn't like me!

Mum: All the same, you must go.

Luqman: Why should I? Mum: Well for one thing you're forty-five years old and another you're the headmaster!

If two's a company three's a crowd what's four and five?

Nine.

One day in the jungle there was a football match between the elephants and the insects. By half time, the elephants were winning 39-0 then in the second half a centipede came on to play for the insects.

He was a brilliant player. The elephants could find no way to stop him, and by the end of the match, the score was 46-39 to the insects. As they were leaving the field, the captain of the elephants said, “What puzzles me is, why you didn't play that centipede in the first half?”

“We would have,” said the captain of the insects. “The only trouble is, it takes him an hour to get his boots on.”

Teacher: You're late; you should have been here at nine.

Suleiman: Why Miss - what happened?

There is a story of an Imam who got up after Friday prayers and announced to the people: “I have good news and bad news. The good news is, we have enough money to pay for our new building program. The bad news is, it's still out there in your pockets.”

Sadiah Umar, Malawi An Imam shocked his community when he announced that he was resigning from that particular Masjid and moving to a drier climate. After the session, a very distraught lady came to the Imam with tears in her eyes, “Oh Imam, we are going to miss you so much. We don't want you to leave.”

The kind hearted Imam said, “Now, now, Sister, don't carry on. The Imam who takes my place might even be better than me.”

“Yeah,” she said with a tone of disappointment in her voice, that's what they said the last time too…”

Aamenah Badat Malawi What does the ocean say when it sees the shore?

Nothing, it just waves.

Why don't aliens starve in space?

They can find a mars and a milky way Which fish go to heaven when they die?

Angel fish Teacher: Who was the fastest runner?

Which fish only swims at night?

Star fish Zakariyya: Adam (Alaihi Salaam). He was the first in the human race.

What holds up the moon?

Moon beams.

Two cats were looking at a bird in the cage.

Why was the crab arrested?

“That's not a canary,” said the first cat. “It's green.” He was pinching things.

“You never know,” said the second one. “Maybe What do whales eat?

Fish and ships. it's not ripe yet.”

What did the astronaut cook for lunch?

Teacher: If I had ten oranges in one hand and seven An un identified frying object Zainab Patel. Twatotela School. in the other, what would I have?

Shakera: Big hands

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SMALL DEED-BIG REWARD Zubeida was a a pious woman who had a valley built for the pilgrims which was then named after her. After her demise, someone saw her in a dream strolling amid the gardens of Jannah.

This is the conversation that took place, The person: Zubeida, are these the fruits of your piety ? How did you manage to get such a lofty status in Jannah?

Zubeida: No, the deeds that I had thought of as very great and worthy were not even glanced upon by Allah Ta'alah, but the deed which I regarded as trivial was accepted by Allah Ta'alah and became a source of forgiveness for me.

The person: Really?What was that?

Zubeida: The moment the words of Azhan reverberated in my ears I covered my head completely due to respect and stopped all conversation. Allah Almighty forgave me for the esteem and respect I had for the Azhan and granted me high ranks in Jannah.(Taken from Hazrat Moulana Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi D.B.’s Khutbaate-Faqeer)

SECRET BEHIND A HAPPY MARRIAGE Once X asked Y , 'What is the secret behind your happy married life?'

Y said, “You should share responsibilities with due love and respect to each other. Then there will be no problems.”

X asked, “Can you explain?”

Y said, 'In my house, I take decisions on bigger issues whereas my wife decides on smaller issues. We do not interfere in each others decisions.”

Still not convinced, X asked Y, “Give me some examples.”

Y said, “Smaller issues like which car we should buy, how much amount to save, when to visit hometown, which sofa, air conditioner, refrigerator to buy, monthly expenses, whether to keep a maid or not etc are decided by my wife. I just agree to it.”

X asked, “Then what is your role?”

Y said, “My decisions are only for big issues, like whether America should attack Iran, whether Britain should lift sanction over Zimbabwe, whether to widen African economy, whether Sachin Tendulkar should retire etc. Do you know one thing? My wife never objects to any of these.”

Article forwarded by: Farina Shamsi

Salaams Apa, it was really nice. Had lots of fun. Jazakallah for the effort. May Allah reward you abundantly. Next time please make a point at my house. It would be nice to have it again.

Insha-Allah. Please make lots of Dua for me. Salaams to all and Jazakillah for the effort. Safiya Suleiman.

Salaams. I really enjoyed myself and learnt a lot from you. I met some lovely Muslim ladies and felt at home. Thank you very much. Mariam Ahmed.

Jazakillah for inviting us. It was a good and very educative program. We are looking forward to the next program.

Jazakillah once again. Asma Kapadia.

Asallamu alaikum. The program was so-o-o good. Jazakillah for everything. Take care. Naeema Patel.

Asalamu alaikum. Sa'adat ki nishan wali nure chashmi Zaheda, aap ki ijtema ki khabar sun kar khushi huwi. Mubarak ho or Salaam.Respected Father.

Asalamu alaikum. Mubarak on conducting the Youth campaign. Allahumma Zid Fa Zid. As long as you remain conscious that Allah who can give can deprive as well, Shaytaan will not gain inroads into your work. Brother Shahid.

Salaams sister. I received Genuine Gems and for the past hour read it from cover to cover. I was shocked when I saw the sms I sent you along with my name. Please text me whenever you have your Youth get togethers. Hafeeza and I would love to be part of them. May Allah accept your efforts and grant you a high status in the world and the hereafter. Uhibbuki Fillah!!!

Khadija Lunat.

Asalamu alaikum. My beloved sister, I just wanted to say your Genuine Gems is always such a pleasure to read and it's something that I and the kids always look forward to. May Allah give you the ability to continue touching the hearts of many. May He bless you and bless your entire home and family. We love you. Keep up the wonderful work. Kareema Gilmore.

EXCERPT FROM HAAFIZA HUMAIRA’SSPEECH 27TH JULY 2008 Read and ponder over the life of our Beloved Master Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam. Don't you want to be like the one; whose hair is described as 'wall layli' and Whose handsome face is described as ''wadduhaa” in the Qur'aan, When he looks towards the sky Allah gazes at him lovingly and said “Qad naraa taqalluba wajhika fis samaa…” …let every action and deed from his exemplary life seep into the depth of our hearts.

Feel the magnetism and magnificence of our Nabi Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam's character…stir the heart to life with the love of the Beloved Master Sallal lahu alaihi Wasallam.

Adorn yourselves with the embellishment of the Sunnah. Then you will realize that ADORN YOURSELF the glitter and glamour of the west is WITH SUNNAH nothing but a deception. The gleam and attractions of the western world are mere

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