Blessed places where Duas are accepted

While writing a letter to the people of Makkah, Imaam Hasan Al-Basri (RA)  advised them of the following 15 places in Makkah where duas are accepted:

  1. Inside the Baitullah
  2. At Multazam
  3. In Arafat
  4. In Muzdalifah
  5. In Mina
  6. While performing Tawaf
  7. While performing Sa’ee
  8. At the hill of Safa
  9. At the hill of Marwa
  10. At the well of Zam Zam
  11. At Maqam of Ibraheem
  12. Under the Meezaab or aqueduct of the Ka’bah.
  13. Near the big Shaytan
  14. Near the middle Shaytan
  15. Near the small Shaytan

In some other narrations places and instances such as Rukne- Yamani, Mataaf (where tawaf is commenced), near Hajr Aswad and on first sighting the Baytullah are also mentioned.

Source: A Guide to Hajj by Maulana Yakub Ismail Patel Kawiwala

Health Guidelines For Hajj And Umrah

The more physically fit you are, the easier it would become to perform the many rituals associated with Hajj and Umrah. If you have decided to perform a walking Hajj, then it would be very important for you to be as fit as possible. This will require walking as much as possible, starting about 6 to 8 weeks before departure, walking greater and greater distances as the time of departure arrives….
The performance of Hajj is obligatory on all adult Muslims who have the means to make the trip to the Holy City of Makkah. Umrah is regarded as a minor pilgrimage with only part of the required rituals performed. Whosoever enters the Mi’qaat (boundary of the Holy Land) has to perform Umrah, which includes Tawaaf (seven circuits around the Holy Kabah) and Sa’i (seven times between Mount Safa and Mount Murwa).

Good health makes it easier not only to enjoy Hajj and Umrah in the pleasure of Allah Subahanahu Wata’ala but also to make maximum use of the opportunity to make as much ibadah as possible.

Health plays a major role in fulfilling the requirements of Hajj and Umrah as Hajj and Umrah can be physically demanding depending on circumstances prevailing at the time.

The following is a guideline and must be accompanied by your own Doctor’s advice pertaining to your own health needs.

PHYSICAL FITNESS
The more physically fit you are, the easier it would become to perform the many rituals associated with Hajj and Umrah. If you have decided to perform a walking Hajj, then it would be very important for you to be as fit as possible. This will require walking as much as possible, starting about 6 to 8 weeks before departure, walking greater and greater distances as the time of departure arrives.

A brisk walk for about an hour three times a week would be sufficient to prepare for a walking Hajj. During Hajj and Umrah, the footwear for men is specified in that the high arch on the top of the foot needs to be exposed. The sandles or slippers that are used need to be broken-in well before Hajj and Umrah. Using your new sandles well before departure helps to make the feet accustomed to the footwear. Women may wear any comfortable footwear. Total distance to walk – approximately 10 – 12 kilometres to Arafat and 10 – 12 Kilometres back to Makkah.

Men are not allowed to cover their heads during Hajj and Umrah. Furthermore, in the case of Hajj, men may have shaven their heads recently from the performance of Umrah. It would therefore be advisable to expose the head to the sun whilst exercising before departure so that the head (scalp and face) and neck can become accustomed to the sun. This can also be done in Saudi Arabia before Hajj starts.

The sooner exercise is started, the better. For those who can, brisk walking, stationary cycling, swimming, etc. would be excellent forms of exercise. Even if one is not performing a walking Hajj, these exercises will help tremendously.

Tawaf – approximately 200 metres to 2 kilometers depending on the crowd present and where it is performed, e.g., 1st floor of the Haram.

Sai (Safa – Marwa) – approximately 3.5 kilometers.

Rasulallah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallum often spoke of the importance of physical fitness in general.

Physical fitness is therefore very important.

CLIMATE IN SAUDI ARABIA
Jeddah is on the coast of the Red Sea and therefore enjoys a slightly humid climate in summer. It becomes less humid in winter.

Makkah is about 70 kilometers inland. It has an escarpment around it. One of the most famous sources of drinking water is from the Holy well of Zam Zam . There is very little vegetation in and around Makkah due to the low rainfall. The Great Arabian Desert is all around Makkah. The climate is dry. Temperatures are extremely high, usually in the forty degree Celsius range and sometimes going into the fifties in summer.

Medina is situated about 500 kilometers north and is about 150 kilometers from the coast. It is a large oasis with the Great Arabian Desert all around it. Because of the numerous wells providing excellent water, it has date orchards spreading out on to the outskirts of the city. The climate is dry and hot, the temperatures not reaching as high as in Makkah. In winter, it can become cool to cold especially around Tahadjud and Fajr times.

DRINKING WATER
Water obtained from bore holes is brought to the hotels in tankers. Water is stored in huge tanks on the top of hotels.

Drinking water has to be bought in the form of bottled water. However, Zam Zam is available freely in Makkah and in Medina. Since this is an opportunity to drink as much Zam Zam water as possible, plastic containers easily obtainable can be filled with Zam Zam water and brought to the room.

Because of the hot weather conditions, it becomes necessary to drink water in abundance. Less urine is passed due to the hot conditions. The body conserves water by concentrating the urine. It is not good to pass very concentrated urine for a variety of reasons. Drink enough water so that the urine is clear. Passing clear urine indicates good hydration.

Drinking brackish water can causes a sore throat, stomach cramps and a cough from the irritation in the throat. The sore throat can be confused with a throat infection. Zam Zam water is abundantly available in both the Haramain. Zam Zam water is also available from taps outside the Haram Shareef. Plastic containers may be purchased outside the Haram Shareef, either empty or full of Zam Zam water. Zam Zam water that is available in storage containers in the Harram Shareef is cooled in cooling chambers. Ice is not added to the Zam Zam water. Every group of Zam Zam water containers in the Haram has one container that does not have cooled water. Arabic writing on the container would indicate which container has Zam Zam water that is not cooled.

Although the authorities provide disposable cups for drinking Zam Zam in the Haram, people unfamiliar with this practice often mix the used cups with the unused ones resulting in confusion. If one is unsure, rinse out the cup well before use. It is through the sharing of cups that infections can spread from one pilgrim to another. People come from all parts of the world with different hygienic control. What one may find offensive may be quite normal for another. The important thing to do is to avoid picking up infections from this source.

The Hajj authorities in Saudi Arabia do an excellent job of keeping the Zam Zam water area and containers as clean as possible. Clean drinking cups are always available. Despite hundreds of thousands of people going through the Harram, the authorities keep the facilities exceptionally clean.

Drink adequate amounts of fluids especially water throughout your stay.

CONTROL OF EXISTING HEALTH PROBLEMS
It is very important for anyone who takes regular medications to have enough supplies available for use during their stay in the Holy land.

Medications are available from Pharmacies. Please take a prescription from your doctor with you in case your medication gets misplaced or runs out. The names of the medications may be different and can be confusing. It is far better to take adequate supplies of your own medications. Make sure that you continue to take your medication regularly.

Arthritis
Arthritis needs to be controlled well before departure. Your Doctor is the best person to ask for guidance on medication. Please do not take advise from people who are not properly qualified. The treatment of the arthritis would involve decreasing the inflammation in and around the joints that are affected. Once the inflammation has settled, then light exercises to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint would help tremendously. Again be guided by a Doctor with the help of a Physiotherapist.

Start treatment well before departure.

People who suffer from arthritis of the weight-bearing joints should lose weight if they are overweight. Less weight would result in a decrease in load bearing on the joints.

Control arthritis well before departure.

Care of the back
Most people would travel with heavy suitcases when going overseas. Going to Makkah is no exception. In most cases, it will be found that most of the clothes taken will not be used. Travel light.

Back strain is a common problem. Most people suffer some back pain during their lifetime. Back strains take time to heal sometimes up to a month. Prolapsed discs take longer to heal. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that every precaution be taken not to strain the back unnecessarily.

If it were necessary to buy new luggage, then it would be better to spend a little more and acquire bags with wheels. These can be pulled along without being carried.

Proper lifting of heavy articles involves not bending the back but bending the knees and lifting with a straight back. It will be better to allow others who are not going to Hajj to do the lifting, e.g., relatives who are not going, hotel staff, porters, etc.

If a back problem already exists, extra care needs to be taken not only in lifting but also in sitting in awkward positions or on very low chairs, bending and twisting awkwardly, etc.

Remember, back strains take up to a month to heal. If a disc becomes prolapsed, this would take longer to heal, sometimes requiring operations.

In conclusion

1. Travel light.
2. Lift luggage correctly.
3. Find others who are not performing Hajj or Umrah to lift the luggage if possible.

Fungal Infections of the feet
Fungal infections of the feet present as either a dry scaly very itchy rash or little fluid-filled blisters between the toes or under the feet or around the heel. Fungal infections thrive in moist conditions, as between the toes or under the feet after bathing and after wudhu. The fungi cannot grow without moisture. It is therefore a good habit to dry the feet and the areas between the toes with a paper towel or tissue and to wear open sandals were possible so the feet may dry out. Fungal infections are contagious.

If a fungal infection is present, this must be attended to especially if diabetes is present. Fungal infections of the feet resulting in cracks or maceration of the skin can get secondarily infected with other bacteria causing a spreading cellulites. This can take up to a week or two to resolve with antibiotics and leg elevation.

Fungal infections can be treated with an anti-fungal agent until cured. Please consult a Doctor or Pharmacist for the most appropriate one to use.

As a prophylaxis and also as treatment in some cases, a cheap anti-fungal in the form of a generic anti-fungal can be useful. More expensive preparations, which are cosmetically better, are available and may be in a spray or powder form. The spray and powder form can be used inside shoes and sandles where the fungus may still be present.

Treatment must start well before departure so that the infection can be treated adequately.

Only prophylactic treatment may then be needed. Treat fungal infections well before departure to prevent complications.

Diabetics
Tea ordered from a take-away place may have sugar added to it.

Fruit juices that are made in take-away places have large amounts of sugar added to them to make the juice taste sweet. It is not wise to assume that the fruit juice that is available has not had sugar added to it. Please read labels of fruit juice containers to make sure whether sugar is added or not.

Diabetics must make sure that no sugar is added. Fruit juices are plentiful and extremely tempting.

Please make sure that diabetic control is at its optimum. Together with a Doctor’s help optimal diabetic control should start at least two months before departure to make sure that control is good and the correct medication is taken. Take your glucose monitor (glucometer) with you and enough strips to last you for the duration of your stay. Test your glucose level regularly and write down the results. This becomes important if a Doctor needs to be consulted.

A proper diabetic diet is very important. Some people would have their food included in their accommodation package. The hotels provide food for many people who do not have special dietary requirements. Diabetics should make their own arrangements where possible, e.g., use brown bread which can be bought easily instead of the tempting white-flour rolls or bread that may be on offer, or the abundant white rice that may be prepared.

Diabetics must take extra care of their feet. Treat scratches and even tiny cuts and fungal infections promptly with an antibiotic cream like Bactroban until they heal.

Apply extra moisturiser to keep the skin supple and elastic. Urea-based moisturizers are the best.

Care of nails on feet is also important. Remember that open sandals will be worn for the duration of Hajj. Nails should be well trimmed and not “catch” on clothes.

When walking, allow enough space in front so that feet are not trampled. If a fidgety or panicky person is in front of you, move to another place.

Complications from wounds can easily arise in diabetics resulting in unnecessary pain and discomfort and a possibility of missing Hajj.

Following a diabetic diet is very important always but especially before and during Hajj. Correct medication and good control must be maintained throughout your stay. Take your glucose monitor with you with enough test strips to last you for the duration of your stay.

High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure must be well controlled. Start at least three months before departure. Visit your Doctor regularly so that if a change in medication is necessary, it can be introduced and established before your departure. It is not enough to have your blood pressure checked at a Pharmacy or a nursing sister. Your whole body would need to be checked.

Have your blood pressure checked regularly whilst you are there.

Gout
Those who suffer from gout must make sure that they continue their preventative medication. They should also take with them a supply of medicines that usually helps them during an attack of gout. Gout usually affects the feet causing swelling and severe pain.

Asthma
Those who suffer from asthma must ensure that their asthma is well controlled with preventative medications. Good control must be achieved before departure. Adequate supplies of medications must be taken, especially preventative medications, broncho-dilator inhalers and tablets.

If well controlled, asthma should not pose a problem during Hajj and Umrah.

Both Makkah and Medinah have a dry climate. There is very little pollen in the air. Due to the dry climate, house dust mite population is also low. Cockroach allergy may cause a problem for those who are allergic to cockroach droppings. Those with hyper-reactive airways sensitive to other pollutants should ensure that they control their asthma well. Asthmatics must seek medical attention as soon as their normal medication stops helping them.

Good asthma control is essential for a hassle-free Hajj and Umrah.

Itchy conditions of the skin
People who suffer from skin conditions which cause intense itching, e.g., eczema, lichen planus, psoriasis, etc., are advised to visit their doctor to bring their condition under control to their best ability well before departure. Medications, both tablets and creams can be taken to stop the itching for the duration of the state of Ihraam.

Moisturizers must be used liberally throughout the stay in the Holy land, especially during Hajj. Make sure that the moisturizers do not contain perfumes as perfumes are not allowed whilst in the state of Ihraam.

Moisturizers have different strengths of oil in them. This affects their ability to moisturize. The more the oil content, the more the ability to moisturize. If a moisturizer is not moisturizing adequately, then a “stronger” one is necessary.

Going from weak to strong, the following is a guide:

Aqueous cream – Cream E45 – Vaseline – Nutraderm – Nutraderm Plus – Heal balm.

For itchy conditions of the skin, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.

Dental Care
There is nothing worse than having pain during Hajj. It can take all your energy and concentration away. A toothache is one such condition that can cause intense pain. To find a dentist during the Hajj period will be very difficult. A dental check is essential well before departure to make sure that all the teeth and gums are normal. If you are unfortunate enough to suffer a toothache whilst you are there, a course of a broad spectrum antibiotic will help the pain until you can have it attended to after Hajj, Insha-Allah.

Have a dental check before departure to make sure that your teeth and gums are all in order.

Eye care
People who have an eye problem, e.g., glaucoma, must make sure that they take enough medication with them.

Those people who need reading glasses and those that cannot see well without glasses should take a spare set of spectacles with them. If your glasses break for some reason or is lost, it will not be possible to find another suitable pair.

The white marble around the Haramain shine brilliantly in sunshine. It can be over-whelming. Sun glasses can be used for those with sensitive eyes.

PROBLEMS THAT MAY ARISE

The Prevention of Infections
In situations where there are crowds of people, infections are bound to spread. Germs spread by droplets from our mouth as we speak or when we cough or sneeze especially if phlegm is present, or by direct contact as in kissing or sharing a cup, spoon, fork, etc.

Germs also spread via the faecal-oral route, as in the case of diarrhoea or gastro-enteritis and hepatitis A. Protect children, as they are the ones who come closest to us. Cover your mouth before you cough so as not to spread the infection further. The unhygienic act of spitting phlegm onto the pavement is a sure way of spreading germs! Signs that show that spitting on floors is prohibited are stuck on walls in all Muassasah’s offices. Large open bins are situated in strategic places for those that want to spit. Rather there than on the floor.

Thorough washing of hands with soap helps tremendously in preventing the spread of infections.

Avoid close contact with people who are ill. Visit them by all means but keep your distance. Spend as little time as possible with the ill person.

Use a mask if necessary.

If you are ill and are fortunate enough to have a visitor, protect your visitor by staying a fair distance away. Avoid close contact and tell visitors that the illness may be contagious.

People who are ill should try not to mix with people who are well. In this way, the illness can be contained.

If you suffer from any condition which results in decreased immunity, e.g., following chemo-therapy, please use a mask. Avoid people who are ill. Avoid crowded conditions.

If you need an antibiotic, please consult a Doctor there to get the most appropriate antibiotic at the correct dose.

Diarrhoea and vomiting
If one has diarrhoea, one must drink extra fluids, preferably oral re-hydrating fluids, like hydrol or rehidrate, which are easily available there. Try not to take any medication to stop the diarrhoea unless one is having very frequent diarrhoea (more than 6 times in 12 hours for an adult is a reasonable guide). In this case, one may take either lomotil or Imodium or their generic equivalents as directed in the package insert. These are easily available in Saudi Arabia. Diarrhoea is a method by which the body is trying to get rid of the germs. By stopping it, one may be helping the germs to stay in the body causing one to become more ill. Stomach cramps can occur. Anti-spasmodic agents such as buscopan can be used for pain relief. If there is appetite loss, the forced intake of food may cause the person to become more ill. If an appetite is present, one may eat food, but take in carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables only. Avoid protein foods such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs, dairy products and fried and fatty foods for the first 48 hours. Then, a normal diet may be resumed.

The fruit bought may have insecticides or pesticides sprayed on them. Thorough washing of the fruit before eating must be done to minimize infection. Peel the fruit to be safer. Fruit that need to be peeled are safer e.g., oranges, mandarins, bananas, etc.

When diarrhoea and vomiting are present, drink extra fluids preferably with electrolytes.

Constipation
Due to a change in the diet and the hot weather resulting in water depletion, constipation can be a real problem. Constipation may result in haemorrhoids and fissures. These may result in bleeding. Constipation, haemorrhoids and fissures can be very distressing. It can affect normal activities resulting in loss of valuable time in Makkah and Medinah.

Maintaining a high fibre diet, e.g., a high fibre breakfast cereal, wholemeal bread, dried fruit like prunes and apricots, drinking adequate amounts of water can avoid constipation.

To avoid constipation, eat a high fibre diet and drink adequate amounts of liquids.

Skin Care
Because of the harsh, dry conditions that can be encountered, dryness of the skin can become a problem.

Saudi Arabia, being in the Northern Hemisphere has its winter when the southern hemisphere is having its summer. Hence, those people travelling from the southern hemisphere are confronted by a big change in the external environment.

Going from a humid climate to dry conditions will have a major effect on the skin. The skin will not have the time necessary to acclimatise. Cracking of the skin is common. If this happens on the feet, it can cause deep fissures resulting in pain and discomfort with the possibility of infection developing. This is especially important for diabetics.

A good moisturizer applied two or three times a day starting as soon as possible after arrival in Saudi Arabia will help the skin retain moisture and slowly acclimatise. The moisturizer need not be expensive. A good heel balm would be ideal. To allow the feet to retain the moisture in the skin, it may be necessary to wear a pair of socks to avoid the evaporation of water. Extra care should be paid to the feet, as performing Hajj with painful feet would add an unnecessary burden. A suitable heel balm will also help to smoothen out the thick skin around the heels.

Good care must be taken of the skin, especially the skin on the feet.

Scafing or scuffing of the inner thigh and scrotum
As men are not allowed to wear underwear, inflammation of the skin on the inner side of the thigh and scrotum can occur especially if the person is over-weight. The sweat and the rubbing of the thighs and scrotum during walking can cause a very painful rash and excoriation of the skin in this area.

To prevent this condition, men are advised to use vaseline or any other non-perfumed moisturiser liberally to the inner side of the thighs frequently throughout the state of Ihraam. If this problem does occur, a mild steroid cream will help in soothing the area until healing takes place, Insha-Allah.
Prevention is better than cure.

Swelling of feet
Due to the intense heat, it is not uncommon for the feet to swell. In healthy people, this is transient and is due to the dilatation of blood vessels in the lower limbs from the heat. As the body acclimatises to the hot conditions, the swelling should subside, Insha Allah. If one suffers from any illness, especially heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure, then one should seek the advice of a Doctor. Acclimatisation usually takes about 5 to 7 days. Those that spend a short time in Saudi Arabia before Hajj may find their feet swollen during Hajj. Not much can be done about this as the body needs time to adjust.

It would help to elevate the legs at every opportunity so that the dependent fluid in the feet can go back into the circulation.

Medicines
Most medicines that we find here are obtainable in Saudi Arabia. Take adequate and extra amounts of the usual medicines that you need in case departure from Saudi Arabia is for some reason delayed. These would include medications for High blood pressure, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Glaucoma, raised cholesterol, etc. Besides the usual medicines taken, one may take small quantities of a pain killer such as panado or suncodin and whatever else one may feel is needed. Codiene-containing preparations are not available in Saudi Arabia as codeine is addictive. Pharmacies in Saudi Arabia do not require prescriptions for medications that usually require control here. This is done to make medication easily accessible to the millions of people that come there without the need to look for a doctor. The pharmacists are usually very helpful and will give you whatever you need. Take a presctription of your medications from your Doctor to make it easier for the Pharmacist there. Do not hesitate to take the advise of a Doctor or a Pharmacist who may be traveling with you.

The Holy Mosques in Makkah and Medina have extensive marble floors inside and outside. When the smooth marble is wet, as after rain or after washing, it becomes very slippery. Walking on slippery floors must be done with extra care as slipping and falling hard onto the marble can cause some serious injury to the back, hips, elbows and wrists.

Fractures usually result from these falls.

Take extra care when walking on wet marble floors in and around the Haramain.

THE FIVE DAYS OF HAJJ
We must not lose sight of the primary aim of our journey and that is to perform Hajj. We can become engrossed in daily activities in Makkah and Medinah without realising the closeness of Hajj. The whole purpose of our journey is to perform Hajj. We must therefore be physically and spiritually ready to undertake the Pilgrimage.

If you are ill, get adequate treatment so that you can recover well before Hajj actually starts. If you are not ill, make sure that you look after yourself so that you do not become ill, e.g., avoid coming too close to people who are ill, dress adequately so that you do not get cold or wet if it rains. exercise your body to keep well in peak condition. Take special care of your skin and your feet. Try out your footwear to make sure they fit. Walk with them for a few days or all the time to “break” them in and allow your feet to become accustomed to the footwear.

Have a positive attitude during this time. You are a guest of Allah Ta’ala. Look forward to going out of Makkah to show Allah Ta’ala that you would prove to Him that you are worthy of returning to Makkah for Tawaful Ziyarah, that you reject Shaitaan with enthusiasm and contempt and not return to the ways of Shaitaan. It would be more productive to go out there and perform the rituals with enthusiasm. A positive attitude towards helping other pilgrims in whichever way possible can help you to have a very fulfilling Hajj, Insha-Allah. Please help out in which ever way you can and don’t expect things to be done for you by others.

DURING HAJJ
Spend ALL your time in Ibadaat. The time in Mina is mainly for reflection, on your life so far and on Allah Ta’ala, on Zikr and reading appropriate parts of the Quran.

The Day of Arafat is the most important day of Hajj. Use it to the maximum. You may not get another chance. Take full advantage of standing outside during Waquf to tell Allah Ta’ala how Great He is and to thank Him for all that He has done for you and your family and friends.

Ask Him for whatever your needs are with humility and confidence. If you have prepared well, standing in the hot sun for two to three hours would not be a difficult task Insha Allah.

Please remember to take your medications on time. If you are on a diet, stay strictly on the diet. This is not the time to get sick because you did not take your medication or follow your diet. Besides compromising your own Hajj, you may inconvenience other Hajees.

Do not over eat. Eat small meals, take adequate liquids

Do not rush to stone the Shaitaan. This must be done deliberately with a lot of emotion. Wait for a suitable opportunity. Stand at a safe spot and observe the scene. Do not rush into the crowd. Insha-Allah, a suitable opportunity will present itself. Women should be protected from the pushing. There can be a lot of pushing. Please do not push as it worsens the situation. If you lose your footwear and if it is very crowded with people pushing and shoving, leave your footwear. Do not try looking for your footwear in the crowd. A little push can throw you to the ground. People can get trampled in this rush.

If an injury is sustained on the feet, treat it well with an antiseptic such as savlon regularly and apply Mercurochrome or a suitable antiseptic cream if the wound is deeper until medical help is available. Do not ignore it as Hajj is yet incomplete. There is still Tawaful Ziyarah to be done sometimes under very trying conditions. There is no need to rush. Insha-Allah, there will be plenty of time to complete Hajj.

Pharmacies are available at Mina during Hajj.

IMMUNISATIONS
Yellow Fever Immunisation is recommended only for people traveling through Africa. South Africa is not regarded as a yellow fever endemic area. Therefore, South Africans traveling straight to Saudi Arabia need not take yellow fever immunization. However, some airlines travelling from South Africa to Saudi Arabia make an unscheduled stop in Central Africa, usually Nairobi. If this happens, then Yellow Fever Immunisation becomes necessary. Therefore, it would be advisable to take the Yellow Fever Immunisation. This vaccine lasts 10 years.

Menningo-coccal meningitis vaccine (4 strain – A,C,W135,L- only) is also recommended and required by the Saudi authorities as this infection can be picked up from fellow travelers. This is compulsory for everyone above 2 years old.

This vaccine lasts for 3 years.

Menningo-coccal meningitis can be carried by people who have been vaccinated. To prevent pilgrims from taking the germ home where it can infect other people, all pilgrims are required to take one dose of CIPROBAY 500mg before departure (GENERIC AVAILABLE). This can be obtained from a pharmacy. The tablets are purchased in packs of ten tablets.

Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver resulting in jaundice. It is transmitted via the faecal-oral route by infected food from infected food handlers. The incubation period is 2 to 3 weeks from the time of contact. It can be a serious illness. Hepatitis A vaccine can be taken at least two weeks before departure. Immunity derived from this vaccine can last up to two years. If a booster vaccine is taken after six months, the immunity to hepatitis A will last 10 years. This vaccine is optional.

It is recommended that the Influenza vaccine be taken by all pilgrims before departure for Hajj. Influenza spreads very fast in the crowded situations. This is most important for the elderly, and for people who have chronic illnesses like asthma, diabetes, etc.

Immunisations can have side effects. For this reason, it is better to take the injections well before departure. This will allow for good immunity to develop as well as for the injection site to heal.

CONCLUSION
Adequate preparations to keep your health in good condition will, Insha Allah make the performance of Hajj and Umrah a spiritually uplifting and memorable experience. Invoking Allah Ta’ala’s help, in duas, in keeping illness and injury away and in protection from ill-health cannot be over-emphasised.

Author: Dr. Farouk Haffejee
Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Virtues of Hajj

by Shaykhul Hadeeth Muhammad Zakariyya
Abu Hurayrah radhiyallahu anhu reports that Rasoolullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam said “Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of pleasing Allah and therein utters no word of evil, nor commits any evil deed, shall return from it as free from sin as the day on which his mother gave birth to him.”

When a child is ushered into this world, it enters this life without any blemish and is free from any form of sin. Now, when the Hajj has been performed with utmost sincerity for Allah’s sake, the pilgrim returns to that sinless state.

When we speak of forgiveness of sins as in the Hadeeth mentioned above, we actually refer to minor sins. However, the contents of this Hadeeth have been noted in such numerous Ahaadeeth that some learned Ulaamaa are of the opinion that minor as well as major sins are included in this pardon from Allah.

In this Hadeeth under discussion, three things are mentioned. In the first place we read that Hajj should be for Allah’s sake, and that there should be no worldly object and no ulterior motive prompting this holy deed, neither should it be for the show of things, nor for personal fame. Many people proceed to Makkah for the sake of personal honour and show. Such people have indeed wasted whatever they have spent by way of wealth, health and energy. For them there shall be no reward. We admit that when a person has performed his Hajj even for the sake of showing others, his obligation has been carried out. But how foolish it is indeed that a person should deny himself such great virtue and reward (in the form of Allah’s great pardon) merely because of his desire to be noted among some people.

Rasoolullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam once said, “Near the time of Qiyaamah the rich ones from amongst my Ummah will perform Hajj for the sake of travel and holiday; (like having a holiday in Hijaaz instead of one in London or Paris). The middle class will perform Hajj for commercial purposes, thereby transporting goods from here to there while bringing commercial goods from there to here. The Ulamaa will perform Hajj for the sake of show and fame; (to outdo and surpass Maulana so and so, or any rival shaykh who had performed Hajj a certain number of times). The poor will perform Hajj for the purpose of begging.” (Kanzul Ummaal)

The Ulamaa have stated that should a person perform a “Hajje Badal” on behalf of someone else for a specific price, so that he derives worldly benefit from such a Hajj, he too is included among those who perform Hajj for commercial purposes.

In another Hadeeth we read “that the kings and rulers will perform Hajj for the sake of having pleasurable holidays; the wealthy ones for the sake of business; the poor ones for the sake of begging; while the learned ones will come for Hajj for the sake of show.” (It’haaf)

In the first of these two Traditions, we read that the wealthy ones will perform Hajj for the sake of having a tour and a holiday. In the second Hadeeth we read again that they will do so for the sake of business. In actual fact there is no contradiction here even though it apparently seems so. In the former case, those mentioned as wealthy ones are actually those very rich ones who in the second Hadeeth are called sultaans or rulers. In actual fact they are slightly lower that the rulers. For this reason they are also called the middle class.

Once Umar radhiyallahu anhu was standing between Mount Safaa and Marwah. A group of people came along, alighted from their camels and proceeded to perform tawaaf around Ka’bah. They then came for the sa’ee between Safaa and Marwah. Umar radhiyallahu anhu inquired from them as to who they were. They replied that they were from Iraq. When Umar radhiyallahu anhu inquired as to whether they perhaps had any other intention, e.g. to claim an inheritance, to reclaim a debt to them, or for any other business purpose. They replied: “No”. Then Umar radhiyallahu anhu said: “In that case restart your deeds (like people who have done no evil deeds)”.

What Umar radhiyallahu anhu implied was that having come to the Holy House solely for Allah’s sake, their previous evil deeds were forgiven. They can now start anew. The second point that becomes clear from the Hadeeth under discussion is that no evil word shall be spoken. The Ulamaa have explained that the word “rafath” (evil speech) includes every single form of words which are unseemly, nonsensical and unnecessary to such an extent that even the mention of sexual relations with one’s wife is also included. To indicate or insinuate such actions with hand signs or the eyes, should be refrained from. All such actions and others which stir passions and lust are condemned.

The third point towards which attention is drawn is “fusooq”, which here signifies every single form of disobedience to Allah’s will. One should especially avoid any form of argument and dispute. In one Hadeeth our Rasoolullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam has said: “The beauty of Hajj is attained by speaking amicably with others and to feed them.” To argue with fellow Hujjaaj and to fight with them is the opposite of amicable speech. Hence it is the duty of a Haajji not to criticise his fellow Hujjaaj, to meet everyone with love, humility and humbleness, and to deal with them in a most friendly manner. Some Ulamaa have explained that to meet others in a friendly manner does not only mean that one should not hurt or trouble one’s fellow men. It means that one should (without retaliation) bear and pardon the hurt that comes from their side to you.

The word safar (a journey) means in actual fact “to expose”, “to make clear”. The Ulamaa informs us that a journey is called safar in Arabic because on a journey one’s character is exposed and becomes clear.

Once Umar radhiyallahu anhu asked a man whether he knew a certain person to which the man said that he knew him. Then Umar radhiyallahu anhu inquired, whether the man had been on a journey with that person, to which the man said that he had not. Then Umar radhiyallahu anhu said: “You do not know him.” In one Hadeeth it is stated that a person praised another in the presence of Umar radhiyallahu anhu. Umar radhiyallahu anhu asked: “Did you travel with him?” He replied: “I did not travel with him.” Umar radhiyallahu anhu asked: “Did you have any dealings with him ?” He answered: “No, I had no dealings with him.” Umar radhiyallahu anhu then said: “You do not know that person.” (It’haaf).

There can be no doubt about it that only after having been with a person in similar cases can one truly know a person’s character and his reactions to situations. On a journey there is always a certain amount of inconvenience which inevitably leads to arguments and it is for this reason that the Qur’aan especially mentions: “And let there be no arguments in Hajj.”

Source: Shariah Program

Me, Myself & I

‘Me, Myself and I’ talks delivered by shaykh abu Yusuf Riyadh ul Haq.

The Prophet (s) – A Mercy for the Worlds

This discourse provides a comparative insight and contemporary description of the many ways in which the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is a mercy to the Muslims, non-Muslims and to the whole of mankind.

The Prophet (ﷺ): A Mercy for the Worlds – Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq

As the state of humanity sank deeper into the world of darkness during the sixth century there had never been a greater need for a benefactor and saviour; a saviour who would emerge to rescue mankind from the moral and spiritual decadence that was spiralling humanity towards eminent disaster.

The fiercely independent Arabs, who had previously been ungovernable and were not ruled by any of the super powers of that time, were amazingly overwhelmed and defeated by the sheer force of this one man’s personality, compassion of character and mercy. Decades of enmity and hatred fell apart and transformed into love, compassion and brotherhood.

Laylatul Qadr

(The Night of Power)

Crowning Glory

Laylatul Qadr is the crowning glory of the holy month of Ramadhaan. It is associated with the sending down of the Qur’an Majeed, the last Book of Allah on His last Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), for the guidance of mankind. The Qur’an Majeed describes this Night.

إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةِ ٱلْقَدْرِ
وَمَآ أَدْرَاكَ مَا لَيْلَةُ ٱلْقَدْرِ
لَيْلَةُ ٱلْقَدْرِ خَيْرٌ مِّنْ أَلْفِ شَهْرٍ
تَنَزَّلُ ٱلْمَلاَئِكَةُ وَٱلرُّوحُ فِيهَا بِإِذْنِ رَبِّهِم مِّن كُلِّ أَمْرٍ
سَلاَمٌ هِيَ حَتَّىٰ مَطْلَعِ ٱلْفَجْرِ
“We have indeed revealed this (message) in the Night of Power: And what will explain to you what the Night of Power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the Angels and the Spirit (Jibraeel) by Allah’s permission, on every errand: Peace! This until the rise of Morn!” (Surah 97)

The Night of Power is the night of spiritual bliss. Our Nabi (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) is reported to have said concerning Ramadhaan:

“Verily this month has come to you; and therein is a night which is better than a thousand Months. Whosoever is deprived of it, is deprived of all good; and none is deprived of its good except a totally unfortunate person”. (Ibn Majah)
“Whosoever stands up (in prayer) at the Night of Power out of faith and hopeful of reward, all his past sins will be forgiven.”
(Targhib)

Better than a thousand months

A thousand months are equivalent to 83 years and 4 months. Fortunate is the person who spends this night in prayer. The man or woman, who prays for the whole night during this Night, will deserve blessings and reward for the period as if he or she had been praying for eighty three years and four months consecutively. Since the Night of Power is better than one thousand months no one can actually measure the extent as to how much better it is.

Exclusive

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: “Laylatul Qadr has been bestowed by Allah to my Ummah (People). It was not given to any people before this.” (Dur-Mansoor).

How manifest and replete the special bounties and mercies of Allah Ta’ala are upon this Ummat is quite really beyond imagination. It will therefore be extremely foolish to allow ourselves to be deprived of these great blessings at the expense of sheer laziness and a few hours of extra sleep.

Which Night is it?  When is Laylatul Qadr?

Although there are different reports in different traditions regarding the exact night, it is almost unanimous that the blessed night occurs in one of the last ten nights of Ramadhaan and more probably in one of the last ten odd nights i.e. 2lst, 23rd, 25th 27th or 29th night.

The popular opinion is, however, in favour of the 27th Night of Ramadhaan but that is not absolutely certain. The traditions indicate that it is to be sought in one of the last ten nights and preferably in the last three odd nights. It was therefore the practice of the Holy Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) and his companions to make I’tikaaf in the Mosque for the whole time offering Divine service during the last ten days of Ramadhaan.

Hazrath Aisha (Radhiallaahu Anha) reported that the Apostle of Allah said: “Search for the Blessed Night in the odd (nights) from the last ten (nights) of Ramadhaan” (Bukhari).

What to do on Laylatul Qadr?

Hazrath Aisha has narrated another saying:
“I asked: O Messenger of Allah! Tell me if I were to find a Night of Power, what should I recite therein?” Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) advised her to recite:

Al-laa-hum-ma in-na-ka ‘afoow-wan tu-hib-bul-‘af wa fa-fu ‘an-ni.
O Allah! You are Forgiving, You love forgiveness, so forgive me. (Bukhari).

Special attention should therefore be given to the excessive recitation of this dua on the blessed night. Furthermore one may engage in lengthy rakaats of Tahajjud salaat, Tilaawat of the Qur’an, Dua, Zikr, etc.

The worship and the vigil of the Night of Power are a treat to the soul. The heart tends to melt into tears of heartfelt gratitude. The body is in a state of angelic ecstasy The soul strives to reach nearer to Almighty Allah. In this holy month of Ramadhaan let us strive to seek the Night of Power and its bliss. May Allah reward us with His bountiful blessings. Aameen.

Source: Jamiatul Ulama

Laylatul Qadr

Four Things To Do On Laylatul Qadr

Shaykh Hassan Ali suggests four things we can do on Laylatul Qadr which will make you amongst the richest people in the hereafter.

Heavenly Food

The body is earthly and its nourishment comes from the earth. The spirit, however, is celestial and its nourishment comes only from Heaven.

In Ramadan we should deny our overindulged bodies their earthly gratification and instead provide heavenly food for our malnourished souls.
Shaykh Riyadh ul Haq 

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