Tag: Ramadan

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada
In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Tonight’s Tarawee consists of the remaining Surahs of Amma (JUZ 30) and the Surahs to be recited tonight are listed hereunder with brief explanations of their meanings.

SURAH AL DUHA: [The Glorious Morning Light].
In this Surah the vicissitudes of human life are referred to, and a message of hope and consolation is given to man’s soul from Allah’s past mercies, and he is bidden to pursue the path of goodness and proclaim the bounties of Allah. This is the general meaning. In particular, the Surah seems to have been revealed in a dark period in the outer life of the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam, when a man of less resolute will might have been discouraged. But the Nabee S.A.W. is told to hold the present of less account than the glorious Hereafter which awaited him like the glorious morning after a night of stillness and gloom. The Hereafter was, not only in the Future Life, but his later life on this earth, full of victory and satisfaction.

SURAH AL SHARH or Al INSHIRAH: [The Expansion of the Breast].
This short Surah gives a message of hope and encouragement in a time of darkness and difficulty. It was revealed to the Nabee S.A.W. soon after the last Surah [Al Duha], whose argument it supplements. The Nabee S.A.W.’s mind and heart had indeed been expanded and purified; the burden which pressed on his soul had been removed; and his name exalted in this world and the next. For the righteous man there is no trouble but is linked with ease and joy; he must strive at every stage, and look to Allah Alone as the goal of all his hopes.

SURAH AL TIN: [The Fig].
This Surah appeals to the most sacred symbols to show that Allah created man in the best of moulds, but that man is capable of the utmost degradation unless he has Faith and leads a good life. Nature and history and the Light of Revelation, through the ages, show that man, created by Allah can fall to the lowest depths, unless he lives a life of faith and righteousness. Then will he reach his goal: if not he must stand his Judgement – none can doubt – before the Wisest and Justest of Judges.

SURAH AL ALAQ OR IQRA: [The Clinging Clot or Read]
The first five verses were the first direct revelation to the Prophet (SAW), noble is the mission of the Prophet (SAW), chosen to share publicly the message of Allah, the Lord and Cherisher of all His Creation, Whose measureless bounties include the instruction of man in new and ever new knowledge. But alas for man! he fancies himself self-sufficient, turns away from the Path, and misleads others. But nothing is hidden from Allah. He will bring all untruth and sin in rebellion to Judgement, and subdue all evil. The righteous bow in adoration to Allah, and draw closer to Him.

SURAH AL QADR: [The Night of Power and Honour].
The subject matter is the mystic Night of Power [or Honour], in which Revelation comes down to a benighted world – it may be to the wonderful Cosmos of an individual – and transforms the conflict of wrongdoing into Peace and Harmony – through the agency of the angelic host, representing the spiritual powers of Mercy of Allah, and bless every nook and corner of the heart! All jars are stilled in the reign supreme of Peace, until this mortal night gives place to the glorious day of an immortal world!

SURAH AL BAYYINAH: [The Clear Evidence].
The mystic night of Revelation is indeed blessed. But those who reject Truth are impervious to Allah’s Message, however clear may be the evidence in support of it. Faith and Good Life lead straight to the Goal – The Beauteous Gardens of Bliss Eternal!

SURAH AL ZALZALAH: [The Earthquake].
The Hour of Judgement must needs be heralded by a mighty Convulsion. The earth will give up her secrets and tell her tale of all man’s doing. Men will march in companies and clearly see the inwardness of all their deeds. Not an atom of Good or Evil done, but will be shown in the final account of men convinced.

SURAH AL ADIYAT: [Those that Run].
Its subject matter is the irresistible nature of spiritual power and knowledge, contrasted with unregenerate man’s ingratitude, pettiness, helplessness, and ignorance. There are those that fight with eager charge, the hosts of evil, and storm its citadel. But unregenerate Man shows less than gratitude for Allah’s most gracious Bounties. His life bears witness to his treason and his greed. Allah’s Knowledge is all-embracing. All things hidden will be laid bare at Judgement.

SURAH AL QARI’AH: [The Great Calamity].
This Makkan Surah describes Judgement Day as the Day of Clamour, when mankind will be distracted and the landmarks of this world will be lost, but every deed will be weighed in a just balance, and find its real value and setting. Those whose good deeds will show substance and weight will achieve a Life of good pleasure and satisfaction, while those whose good will be light will find themselves Alas, in a blazing Pit of Punishment.

SURAH AL TAKATHUR: [The Piling Up].
This Surah gives a warning against acquisitiveness i.e. the passion for amassing worldly and material things, whether in the good things of this world, or in manpower or in other forms of megalomania, which leave no time or opportunity for pursuing the higher things of life.

SURAH AL ‘ASR: [Time Through the Ages].
This Surah refers to the testimony of Time through the Ages. All history shows that Evil came to an end. But Time is always in favour of those who have Faith, live clean and pure lives, and know how to wait, in patience and constancy.

SURAH AL HUMAZAH: [The Scandalmonger].
This Surah condemns all sorts of scandal, backbiting, and selfish hoarding of wealth, as destroying the hearts and affection of men. The Fire of Wrath will envelop them and wither up their hearts and minds, and consume that largeness of life which is the portion of mankind.

SURAH AL FIL: [The Elephant].
Let no man be intoxicated with power or material resources. They cannot defeat the purpose of Allah. So Abrahah Ashram fired by religious fanaticism led a large expedition against Makkah intending to destroy the Ka’bah with his elephant or elephants. A shower of stones, thrown by flocks of birds, destroyed him and his army almost to a man. The stones produced sores and pustules on the skin, which spread like a pestilence.

SURAH QURAYSH: [The Tribe of Quraysh].
This Makkan Surah may well be considered as a pendant to the last. If the Quraysh were fond of Makkah and proud of it, if they profited, by its central position and it guaranteed security, from their caravans of trade and commerce, let them be grateful, adore the One True Creator and accept His Message. Who gave the Quraysh their talents for the arts of peace, for trade, for commerce and for journeys south and north at proper seasons, and made their home inviolable in Makkah? Surely they, if any, should adore their Lord and listen to His Message of Unity and Truth.

SURAH AL MA’UN: [The Neighbourly Assistance].
The subject matter is the meaning of true worship, which requires Faith, the practical and helpful love of those in need, and sincerity rather than show in devotion and charity.What remains if you deny all Faith and personal responsibility? Why then help the helpless or teach others deeds of charity? Vain were worship without heart and soul. What do you think of men who make great show, but fail to meet the simple needs of daily life?

SURAH AL KAWTHAR: [The Abundance].
This Surah sums up in the single mystic word Kawthar [Abundance] the doctrine of spiritual Riches through devotion and sacrifice. The converse also follows: indulgence in hatred means the cutting off of all hopes of this life and the Hereafter. To the man of Allah, rich in divine blessings, is granted a Fountain unfailing, they will quench the spiritual thirst of millions. Turn, then, in devotion and sacrifice to Allah, nor heed the venom of Hatred, which destroys its own hopes, alas, of the present and the future!

SURAH AL KAFIRUN: [Those Who Reject Faith].
This Surah defines the right attitude to those who reject Faith. In matters of Truth we can make no sacrifices, but there is no need to persecute or abuse anyone for his faith or belief. The man of Faith holds fast to his faith, because he knows it is true. The man of the world, rejecting Faith, clings hard to worldly interests. Let him mind his worldly interests, but let him not force his interests on men sincere and true, by favour, force, or fraud.

SURAH AL NASR: [The Help].
This beautiful Surah was the last of the Surahs to be revealed as a whole, though the portion of the verse 3 of Surah Al Ma’idah: “This day have I perfected your religion for you” etc., contains probably the last words of the Holy Qur’an to be revealed. The date of this Surah was only a few months before the passing away of the Beloved Nabee S.A.W. from this world, Rabi 1, A.H. 11. The place was either the precincts of Makkah at his Farewell Hajj, Dhu al Hijjah A.H. 10, or Madinah after his return from the Farewell Hajj. Victory is the crown of service, not an occasion for exultation. All victory comes from the help of Allah. Praise and Glory belongs only to Allah: to Him we humbly Turn and pray for Grace, for He is oft-Returning in Grace and Mercy.

SURAH AL MASAD or AL LAHAB: [The Plaited Rope] or [The Flame].
“Abu Lahab: “Father of Flame” – was the nickname of an uncle of the Nabee S.A.W; from his fiery hot temper and his ruddy complexion. He was one of the most inveterate enemies of early Islam. When the Nabee S.A.W. called together the Quraysh and his own family members to come and listen to his preaching and his warning against the sins of the people, the “Father of Flame” flared up and cursed the Nabee S.A.W. saying “Perdition to Thee!” This Surah carries the general lesson that cruelty ultimately ruins itself. The man who rages against holy things is burnt up in his own rage. His hands, which are the instruments of his action, perish, and he perishes himself. No boasted wealth or position will save him. The curses, insults, threats and spite, harmed not the innocent, but hit the wrondoers themselves and branded them with eternal infamy!

SURAH IKHLAS: [The Purity of Faith].
The nature of Allah is here indicated to us in a few words, such as we can understand. Here we are specially taught to avoid the pitfalls into which men and nations have fallen at various times in trying to understand Allah. Keep Faith all pure and undefiled. There is Allah, the One and Only; Eternal, Free from all needs; on Whom depend, to Whom go back all things; He hath no son nor father nor partner. There is no one like unto him.

SURAH AL FALAQ: [The Daybreak].
In Allah’s Created World, there are all kinds of forces and counter forces, especially those put in motion by beings who have been endowed with some sort of will. The forces of Good may be compared to light, and those of evil to darkness. Allah can cleave the depths of darkness and produce light (Surah Al An’am verse 96], and therefore we should cast off fear and take refuge in Divine Guidance and Goodness. Banish fear, and trust His Providence. No danger, the, from the outer world, no secret plottings from perverted wills, no disturbance of your happiness or good, can effect the fortress of your inmost soul.

SURAH AL NAS: [Mankind].
The previous Surah pointed to the necessity of seeking Allah’s protection against external factors which might affect an individual. Here the need for protection from internal factors, mankind being viewed as a whole, is pointed out. This Surah is a pendant to the last Surah, and concludes the Most Glorious and Holy Qur’an with an appeal to us to trust in Almighty Allah Rabbul ‘Aala’meen, rather than man, as our sure shield and protection. It warns us specially against the secret whispers of evil within our own hearts.
Allah is the Heavenly Sovereign Who gives Laws and Allah is the Goal to which we will be returned and Judged. Let man but place himself in Allah’s hands, and never can Evil touch him in his essential and inner life.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 26

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists slightly more than the first half of Amma (JUZ 30) and the Surahs that will be covered are listed individually with brief explanations and their meanings.

SURAH NABA: [The Great News]. The Great News for man, in his spiritual destiny, is the Day of Judgement to come, the Day of Sorting Out. It sets forth Allah’s Loving Care in a fine nature passage, and deduces from it the Promise of the Future, when Evil will be destroyed and Good will come to its own: and invites all who have the will to seek refuge with their Exalted and Most Gracious Lord.

SURAH AL NAZI’AT: [Those Who Tear Out]. This Surah deals with the theme of Judgement from the point of of Pride and its Fall. The Parable of Fir’aun occupies a central place in the argument. He flouted Allah’s Message specially sent to him, and arrogantly proclaimed: “I am your Lord Most High!” He perished in this life and will answer for his deeds in the next.

SURAH ABASA: [He Frowned]. Men who are not blessed with the good things of this life may yet be earnest seekers of Truth and Purity, and deserve as much attention as those who seem to wield some influence, yet who in their pride are self-sufficient. Allah’s Message is universal and all have a right to hear it. The Surah recapitulates the Mercies of Allah to mankind, and the consequences of a good pr a wicked life here, as seen in the spiritual world to come, in the Hereafter.

SURAH AL TAKWIR: [The Folding Up]. The Surah opens up with a series of highly graphic images portraying the break-up of the world as we know it [verses 1-13] and the enforcement of complete personal responsibility for each soul [verse 14]. This is followed by a passage showing how the Qur’anic Revelation was true, and revealed through Sayyidina Jibra’eel Amin Alayhis Salaam, and not a rhapsody from one possessed. Revelation is given for mankind’s spiritual guidance in verses 14 to 29.

SURAH AL INFITAR: [The Cleaving Asunder]. In subject matter this Surah is cognate to the last, though the best authorities consider it a good deal later in chronology in the early Makkan period. Its argument is subject to the threefold interpretation as referring (1) to the Day of Judgement, (2) to the Lesser Judgement, on an individual’s death, and (3) to the awakening of the Inner Light in the soul at any time, that being considered as Death to the Falsities of this Life and a Rebirth to the true Spiritual Reality.

SURAH AL MUTAFFIFIN: [The Dealers in Fraud]. This Surah is close in time to the last one and the next one. It condemns all fraud – in daily dealings, as well as and especially in matters of Religion and higher spiritual life which will be exposed to view at Judgement, however hidden they may be in this life. Give everyone his due for the record of ill deeds and good is fully kept, and the stains of sin corrupt the soul. Reject not Real Now, nor mock for the time will come when the True will come to its own, and then the mighty arrogant will be abased.

SURAH AL INSHIQAQ: [The Rending Asunder]. This Surah opens with a mention of some cataclysmic events, shows that the present phenomenal order will not last, and Allah’s full Judgement will certainly be established. Mankind should therefore strive for the World of Eternity and True Values.

SURAH AL BURUJ: [The Constellations]. The subject matter of this Surah covers the persecution of Allah’s votaries. Allah watches over His own, and will deal with the enemies of Truth as He dealt with them in the past.

SURAH AL TARIQ: [The Night Star]. The subject matter is the protection afforded to every soul in the darkest period of its spiritual history, The physical nature of man may be insignificant, but the soul given to him by Allah must win a glorious Future in the end. Through the darkest night comes a penetrating light of a glorious Star. Such is the power of Revelation: it protects and guides the erring. For what is man? But a creature of flesh and bones! But Allah by His Power doth raise man’s state to a Life Beyond! – when lo! All things hidden will be made plain. Man’s help will then be but the Word of Allah, which none can thwart. So wait with gentle patience – for His Decision.

SURAH AL A’LA: [The Most High]. The argument is that Allah has made man capable of progress by ordered steps, and by His Revelation will lead him still higher to purification and perfection. Let us look to the Eternal Goal, with hearts and souls of Purity, and glorify His Name: For in this changing, fleeting world, His Word is always True, and will remain through all the ages, ever the same.

SURAH AL GHASHIYAH: [The Overwhelming Event]. The contrast between the destinies of the Good and the Evil in the Hereafter – on the Day when the true balance will be restored. The Signs of Allah even in this life should remind us of the Day of Account, for Allah is Good and Just, and His Creation is for a Just Purpose.

SURAH AL FAJR: [The Dawn]. Its mystic meaning is suggested by contrasts – contrasts in nature and in man’s long history. Thus does it enforce the lesson of Faith in the Hereafter to “those who understand”. Man’s history and legendary lore show that greatness does not last and the proudest are brought low. For enforcing moral and spiritual truths, the strictest history is no better than legend. Indeed all artistic history is legend, for it is written from a special point of view. Man is easily cowed by contrasts in his own fortunes, and yet he does not learn from them the lesson of forbearance and kindness to others, and the final elevation of goodness in the Hereafter. When all the things on which his mind and heart are set on this earth shall be crushed to nothingness, he will see the real glory and power, love and beauty, of Allah, for these are the light of the Garden of Paradise.

SURAH AL BALAD: [The City].This Surah refers to the mystic relation (by Divine sanction) of the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam with the City of Makkah. The Prophet’s own City persecuted him. Honoured by his nativity, it sought to slay him. Yet he loved it and purged it of all that was wrong. What toil and struggle did it not involve? Man is made for toil and struggle. Let him not boast of ease and wealth. He will be called to account for all his doings. Let him use his God-given faculties, and tread the steep path that leads to Heaven’s Heights: The steps thereto are Love, unselfish Love, given freely to Allah’s creatures – all those in need – and Faith in Allah, and Patience joined with self-restraint and kindness. Thus only can we reach the ranks of the blessed Companions of the Right Hand!

SURAH AL SHAMS: [The Sun]. Beginning with a fine nature passage, and leading up to man’s need of realising his spiritual responsibility, it ends with a warning of the terrible consequences for those who fear not the Hereafter. Allah gave the soul the power of choice and the sense of Right and Wrong. Let man keep it pure and attain salvation. Soil it with sin and reach perdition. Inordinate wrongdoing ruined the Thamud. They defied Allah’s Sacred Law and His Prophet, and went to Destruction for their crime.

SURAH AL LAYL: [The Night]. Here we are told to to strive our utmost towards Allah, and He will give us every help and satisfaction. When we consider Allah’s Wonderful Creation, we see many mysteries – many opposites – many differences; the succession of nights and days, the creation of male and female. Can we wonder at the differences in the nature and objectives of man? He is endowed with Will, and he must strive for the Right through all his diverse paths. For the Righteous, the way is made the smoother for bliss: for the arrogant crooked will, the way is the smoother for Misery. But Allah’s Guidance is always near if man will choose it. And what is the goal for those who choose aright? The sight of the Face of Allah Most High: For that indeed is happiness supreme.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 25

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of Tabarakalladhi (JUZ 29). The Surahs that will be covered are: Surah Al Mulk [The Dominion]; Surah Al Qalam [The Pen] or Nun; Surah Al Haqqah [The Sure Reality]; Surah Al Ma’arij [The Ways of Ascent]; Surah Nuh [Noah}; Surah Al Jinn [The Spirits]; Surah Al Muzammil {The Enfolded One]; Surah Al Muddaththir [The One Wrapped Up]; Surah Al Qiyamah [The Resurrection]; Surah Al Insa [Man] or Al Dahr [The Time]; and Surah Al Mursalat [Those Sent Forth].

SURAH AL MULK:
This Surah of 30 verses belongs to the Middle Makkan period. Allah is mentioned here by the name of Al Rahman [Most Gracious], as He is mentioned by the names of Al Rabb [Lord and Cherisher] and Al Rahman [Most Gracious] in Surah 19. Lordship is right and in fact belongs to Allah Most Gracious, Whose Goodness and Glory and Power are writ large on all His Creation. The beauty and order of the heavens above us proclaim Him. Then who can reject His Call but those in pitiful delusion? And who can fail to accept, that truly knows himself and the mighty Reality behind him? The earth and the good things thereof are prepared for man by his Gracious and Exalted Lord, Who guards him from hourly dangers. Who sustains the wonderful flight of the birds in midair? Above, and below, and in midair can we see His boundless Signs. We know that His Promise of the Hereafter is true. The spring and source of the goodness of things is in Him, and will appear triumphant when the Hour is established.

SURAH AL QALAM: [The Pen], or Nun
Our Nabee S.A.W. was the sanest and wisest of men. Those who could not understand him called him mad or possessed. So, in every age, it is the habit of the world to call Truth Falsehood and Wisdom Madness, and, on the other hand, to exalt Selfishness as Planning, and Arrogance as Power. The contrast is shown up between the two kinds of men and their real inner worth. True Judgement comes from Allah, and not from the false standards of men. The Pen is the symbol of the permanent Record, the written Decree, the perfect Order in the government of the world. And by that token, the man of Allah comes with a Plan and Guidance that must win against all detraction. Truth is high above Slander. But men must be tried against selfishness and overweening confidence in themselves such as would lead them to forget Allah and His Providence – like the brothers who built castles in the air above their garden and found it desolate in one night’s storm. But repentance brought them forgiveness: Thus work the Wrath and the Mercy of Allah.

SURAH AL HAQQAH: [The Sure Reality].
In this fleeting world few things are what they seem. What then is sure Reality? Nations and men in the past assumed arrogance and perished because they were unjust, but that destruction was but a foretaste of the Doom to come in the Hereafter, when all creation will be on a new plane, and true values will be fully established. To the Righteous will be Bliss, and to Evil, Punishment. The word of Revelation is not a Poet’s imagination or a Soothsayer’s groping into the future. It is Allah’s Own Message, of Mercy to the Righteous, and warning to those who reject the Truth. Praise and Glory to the name of Allah Most High.

SURAH AL MA’ARIJ: [The Ways of Ascent].

Patience and the mystery of Time will show the ways that climb to Heaven. Sin and Goodness must each eventually come to its own. Man can ascend to the Presence of Allah, but by gradual Ways and in process of Time. But what is Time? A Day is as fifty Thousand years, on two different planes. What seems near is far, and what seems far is near. So will Judgement be, when things as we know them will be transformed completely in a world all new. Evil will come to its own, whatever its masks in this transitory world. And Good will surely reach its goal. The good life is patient, in prayer and well-doing, Faith and the earnest search for the Good Pleasure of Allah, purity and probity. These are the Paths to the Heights and the Gardens of Bliss. No Evil can enter there: For the evil are other ways, leading by steep descent to dark Ignominy!

SURAH NUH: [Noah].
The theme is that while Good must uphold the standard of Truth and Righteousness, a stage is reached when it must definitely part company with Evil, lest Evil should spread its corruption. The story of Hazrat Nuh Alayhis Salaam’s agony is almost a Parable for the prosecution of our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam in the Makkan period by the Pagans.

SURAH AL JINN: [The Spirits].
Two years before the Hijrah, when the Nabee S.A.W; despised and rejected in his native city of Makkah went to the lordly men of Ta’if, they maltreated him and nearly killed him. What caused him greater pain was the maltreatment of the humble and lowly men who went with him. On his return journey to Makkah, a glorious vision was revealed to him – hidden spiritual forces working for him – people not known to him accepting his mission while his own people were still rejecting him. Within two months some strangers from Madinah had privately met him and laid the foundations of that Hijrah which was to change the fate of Arabia and the course of world history.

SURAH AL MUZAMMIL: [The Enfolded One].
The subject matter is the significance of Prayer and Humility in spiritual life and the terrible fate of those who reject Faith and Revelation. Devote yourself to the service of Allah in the stillness of the night, but not all night. In the world’s persecution rely on Allah, Who will deal with His enemies fittingly. Let not Allah’s service be a matter of difficulty to you: do all your duties in whole-hearted remembrance of Allah, and ever seek His bountiful Grace.

SURAH AL MUDDATHTIR: [The One Wrapped Up].
The subject matter of this Surah is similar to the one before it. Prayer and Praise, and the need of patience in a period of great spiritual stress: the unjust who cause sorrow and suffering now will themselves experience agony in the Hereafter. The Seer, by devotion and contemplation, prepares himself for the duties of Guide and Leader to mankind. When there comes the clear Call, he must stand forth and Proclaim the Message – in purity, unselfish devotion, and patience long-suffering – to save mankind from the Distress of the Final Day.

SURAH AL QIYAMAH: [The Resurrection].
The subject matter of the Surah is the Resurrection, viewed from the point of view of Man, especially unregenerate Man, as he is now, and as he will be then, his inner and psychological history. Eschew all Evil: for man was not created without purpose or without responsibility. The Day of Account will come, and his own conscience bears witness that he must walk straight; for he must face the Realities of That Day. With patience await the unfolding of Allah’s view. Woe unto man that he thinks not now of Allah’s Purpose and the noble Destiny for which Allah gave him Life and all its Gifts.

SURAH AL INSAN: [Man]. or Al DAHR: [The Time].
Its theme is the contrast between the two classes of men, those who choose good and those who choose evil, with special reference to the former. The title of the Surah recalls a Pagan Arab idea, which personified Time as existing spontaneously from eternity to eternity and responsible for the misery or the happiness of mankind. In Verse 45 of Surah Al Jathiyah we read: “They say…..nothing but Time can destroy us.” This attitude is of course wrong. Time is a created thing: it has its mysteries, but it is no more eternal than matter. It is also relative to our conceptions and not absolute. It is only Allah Who is Self Subsisting, Eternal from the beginning and Eternal to the end, the absolute Existence and Reality; We must not transfer His Attributes to any figment of our imagination. This deification of Time [Dahr] as against a living personal God has given rise to the term dariyah, as applied to an atheist or a materialist. The Righteous are patient in Constant Devotion: Allah’s Way is open to all. Whosoever has the Will, may attain to the Perfect Goal.

SURAH AL MURSALAT: [Those Sent Forth].
The theme of this Surah is similar to that of Surah Al Qiyamah. It denounces the horrors of the Hereafter, for those who rejected Truth. The refrain, “Ah woe, that Day, to the Rejecters of Truth!” which occurs ten times in its fifty verses, or, on an average, once in every five verses, indicates the leitmotif. Will man not learn from his own little story, or from nature around him? The Blazing Fire will be indeed an enveloping Punishment. How dreadful the contrast with the Bliss of the Righteous! Learn, you, therefore, Humility, and approach Allah’s Throne in Repentance and Earnest Endevour.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 24

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of Qad Sami-Allahu (JUZ 28) and the Surahs that will be covered are the following: Surah Al Mujadilah [The Woman Who Pleads]; Surah Al Hashr [The Mustering]; Surah Al Mumtahinah [ That Which Examines]; Surah Al Saff [The Battle Array]; Surah Al Juma’ah [Frida]; Surah Al Munafiqun [The Hypocrites]; Surah Al Taghabun [The Mutual Loss And Gain]; Surah Al Talaq [Divorce]; and Surah Al Tahrim [Prohibition].

SURAH AL MUJADILAH: [The Woman Who Pleads].
The subject matter of this Surah is the importance of a woman’s Plea on behalf of herself and her children and a condemnation of all secret counsels and intrigues in the Muslim Brotherhood.

Summary: – All false pretences, especially those that degrade a woman’s position, are condemned – as well as secret consultations between men and intrigues with falsehood, mischief, and sedition. Observe order and decorum in public assemblies, and seek not in selfish pride to engage your leader’s private attention. It is wrong to turn to the enemies of Allah for friendship. They make their oaths a cloak for wrongdoing, and keep back men from the Right. But none can resist the Power or the Judgement of Allah. The Righteous seek only His Good Pleasure, and rejoice therein as their highest Achievement.

SURAH AL HASHR: [The Mustering].
The special theme of this Surah is how treachery to the Ummah on the part of its enemies recoils on the enemies themselves, while it strengthens the bond between the different sections of the Ummah itself, and this is illustrated by the story of the expulsion of the Jewish tribe of Banu al Nadr in Rabi’ al Awwal, 4 A.H. This fixes the date of the Surah.

Summary: – The expulsion of the treacherous Jews from the neighbourhood of Madinah was smoothly accomplished. Their reliance on their fortified positions and on the faith of their allies in treachery proved futile.
But the internal bonds in the Ummah were strengthened. Such is the Wisdom of Allah, Lord of the Most Beautiful Names. There is no god but He! the Good, the Glorious, the Irresistible! All Creation sings His Praise – the Exalted in Might, the Wise!

SURAH AL MUMTAHINAH: [That Which Examines].
The point here is: What social relations are possible with the Unbelievers? A distinction is made between those who persecute you for your Faith and want to destroy you and your Faith, and those who have shown no such rancour. For the latter there is hope of mercy and forgiveness. The question of women and cross-marriages is equitably dealt with. The date is after the Pagans had broken the Treaty of Hudaybiyah about A.H. 8, not long after the conquest of Makkah.

Summary: – The enemies of your Faith, who would exterminate you and your Faith, are not fit objects of your love. Follow Nabee Ebrahim Alayhis Salaam’s example. But with those Unbelievers who show no rancour, you should deal with kindness and justice: marriage between Believers and Unbelievers. Let not Believing women be handed over to Unbelievers. No marriage tie is lawful between them. When women wish to join your society, take their assurance that they yield not to sin or unbeseeming conduct. Take every care to keep your society free and pure, and self-contained.

SURAH AL SAFF: [The Battle Array].
The subject matter here is the need of discipline, practical work, and self-sacrifice in the cause of the Ummah. Its date is uncertain, but it was probably shortly after the Battle of Uhud, which was fought in Shawwal, A.H. 3.

Summary: – Allah’s Glory shines through all Creation: but what discipline can you show to back your words with action? What story can you learn from the stories of Nabee Moosa and Nabee Esa Alayhim Salaam? Help the Cause, and Allah’s Help will come with glorious results. Do you only mock and insult the messengers as they did of old? Nay, trust in Allah and strive your utmost in His Cause, little have you to give, but glorious is the reward that Allah will give you – now and in the Eternal Life to come!

SURAH AL JUMU’AH: [Friday].
The special theme of this Surah is the need for mutual contact in the Community for worship and understanding. The spirit of the Message is for all, ignorant and learned, in order that they may be purified and may learn wisdom.

Summary: – The Revelation has come among unlearned men, to teach purity and wisdom not only to them but to others, including those who may have an older Message but do not understand it: meet solemnly for the Assembly [Friday] Prayer, and let not worldly interests deflect you therefrom. Allah’s care for His creatures is universal. His Revelation is for all – ignorant and lowly as well as learned and high placed – now and forever. None can arrogantly claim exclusive possession of Allah’s Gifts; If they do, search their hearts within, and you will find them afraid of Death and Judgement. Men of Faith! On the Day of Assembly, when you hear the call, hasten earnestly to answer it: leave off business, and join in common worship and devotion. Then you may disperse about your ordinary business, but remember the Praises of Allah always. It is He alone that can provide for your every need, and His Gifts are the best.

SURAH AL MUNAFIQUN: [The Hypocrites].
The special feature here dealt with is the wiles and mischief of the Hypocrite element in any community, and the need of guarding against it and against the temptation it throws in the way of the Believers. The Battle of Uhud [Shawwal A.H. 3] unmasked the Hypocrites in Madinah. This Surah may be referred to some time after that event, say about 4 A.H. or possibly 5 A.H.

Summary: – False are the Oaths of the Hypocrites for they only seek selfish ends. Believers should beware of their wiles and strive devotedly always for the Cause. The Oaths of the Hypocrites are a screen for their misdeeds. They think they deceive with their fair exteriors and plausible talk, but their minds are impervious to the real Truth. They may plot to withhold from men of Allah such things of this world as they may command. They may plot to expel and persecute the righteous; they may call them ill names and slight them. But to Allah belongs the treasures of the heavens and the earth, and He will bestow according to His Wise and universal Plan. Let not the world’s foolish craze divert the Believers from the service of Allah – from good deeds and Charity. Now is the time: all vain will be your pleas and your regrets when the shadow of Death cuts off your last chance of Repentance!

SURAH AL TAGHABUN: [The Mutual Loss and Gain].
The special aspect spoken of here is the mutual gain and loss of Good and Evil, contrasted in this life and in the Hereafter. It is an early Madinah Surah, of the year 1 of the Hijrah or possibly even of the Makkan period just before the Hijrah.

Summary: – Both the Unbelievers and the Believers were created but the One True Creator, Who created all and knows all. Why should Unbelief and Evil exult in worldly gain when their loss will be as manifest in the Hereafter as will the gains of the Believers? The Gainers here will be the losers there, and the Losers Gainers. Some of this exchange you will see even here, in this life, for Unbelievers who deny the Hereafter; but in the Hereafter, full account and true adjustment of good and ill will follow before the Judgement Seat: Nay, Good will get more than its full reward: for Allah is Bounteous, Merciful, Mighty, Wise.

SURAH AL TALAQ: [Divorce].
The aspect dealt with here is Divorce, and the necessity of precautions to guard against its abuse. The relations of the sexes are an important factor in the social life of the Community, and this Surah as well as the following Surah deal with certain aspects of it. “Of all things permitted by Law”, said our Beloved Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam, “divorce is the most hateful in the sight of Allah”. [Abu Dawud, Sunan, 13.3] While the sanctity of marriage is the essential basis of family life, the incompatibility of individuals and the weaknesses of human nature require certain outlets and safeguards if that sanctity is not to be made into a fetish at the expense of human life. That is why the question of Divorce is in this Surah linked with the question of insolent impiety and its punishment.

Summary: – Provision to be made for women in case of Divorce, insolent impiety always leads to punishment.. Use all the precautions to protect the interests of unborn or newborn lives as well as social decency; and close not to the last door of reconciliation. Allah’s Laws must be obeyed: It is man’s own loss if he is deaf to the voice which teaches him, or blind to the Light which guides him. Allah’s universe of beauty and wonder stands strong in wisdom; Let man but tune himself thereto.

SURAH AL TAHRIM: [Prohibition].
The point dealt with here is: how far the turning away from sex or the opposition of one sex against another or a want of harmony between the sexes may injure the higher interests of society. The date may be taken to be somewhere about A.H. 7.

Summary: – The failings of the weaker sex should not turn away men from normal social life: harmony and mutual confidence should be taught and enforced, and Allah’s blessing will descend on the virtuous even if their lot is cast with the wicked. Respect each other’s confidence, and if you fail, repent and make amends. The good man seeks virtue for himself and his family. If Evil is yoked to Good, it must take the fruit of its own deeds; the worldly tie will profit naught; but good should firmly make a stand and will be saved, for Allah does care for All His true devoted Servants.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 23

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of Kaala Fama Khatbukoom (JUZ 27) and the Surahs that will be covered are:- the concluding second half of Surah Al Dhariyat, Surah Al Tur [The Mount]; Surah Al Najm; Surah Al Qamar [The Moon] Surah Al Rahman [The Most Gracious]; Surah Al Waqi’ah and Surah Al Hadid.

The commentary of Surah Al Dhariyat was covered last night.

SURAH AL TUR; [The Mount]
Surah Al Tur is an early Makkan Surah. All Signs of Allah, including previous revelations and other sacred symbols, point out that Allah’s Final Judgement will take place on the Day of Reckoning. The perpetrators of evil will be severely punished on that day while those who enjoined the good will reap the benefits of Allah’s rewards. All Praise is due to none other than Allah and all the points raised by the disbelievers are without foundation. They have failed to grasp the Divine Message. Praise Allah in the stillness of the night and at the holy hour of dawn as the stars retreat, singing glory to the Maker of their own most glorious Sun.

SURAH AL NAJM: This is an early Makkan Surah.
Summary: – The impression received by the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam in revelation is neither error on his part nor deception by others, nor does he speak from selfish motives. It comes clearly from Allah, Who is not what the vain imaginations of men conceive. He is All-in-All, First and Last, Lord of All, Ample in forgiveness. Those who turn away are petty and ignorant, not knowing that Allah is the source and goal of all things – in men, in nature, and in the events of history – therefore serve Him. He has created all of us, and knows all that we are. It is not for us to justify ourselves, but to offer ourselves totally as we are. Learn from His Revelation and Adore the Lord of your innermost soul.

SURAH AL QAMAR: [The Moon].
This is an early Makkan Surah. The theme of the Surah is explained by the refrain: “Is there any that will receive
admonition?” which occurs six times, at the end of each reference to a past story of sin and rejection of warnings and in the appeal to the simplicity of verses 15, 17, 22, 32, 40, and 51. There is an invitation to listen to the Message and turn to Truth and Righteousness.

Summary: – The Hour of Judgement is nigh, but men forget or reject the Message, as did the people of Nabee Nuh A.S., of ‘Ad, of Thamud, of Nabee Lut A.S.; and of Fir’aun. Is there any that will receive admonition? Will the present generation learn wisdom by warning? Alas! Is there any that will truly receive admonition? The Righteous will dwell in the Gardens of Bliss – in joyful Assembly of realised Truth, in the Presence of their Sovereign Most High.

SURAH AL RAHMAN:
The majority of Commentators consider this an early Makkan Surah, though some consider at least a part of it dating from Madinah. The greater part of it is undoubtedly early Makkan. It is highly poetical and most sublime, and the refrain “Then which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?” is interspersed 31 times among its 78 verses. It is the sixth of the series of seven dealing with Revelation, the favours of Allah, and the Hereafter. Here the special theme is indicated by the refrain. The rhyme in most cases is the Dual grammatical form, and the Argument implies that though things are created in pairs, there is an underlying Unity, through the Creator, in the favours which He bestows, and in the goal to which they are marching.

Summary: – Allah Exalted and Most Gracious has sent Revelation, one of His greatest favours to mankind. His Creation is in pairs, well-balanced; all created things receive His Favours, but they will all pass away, and only Allah will endure through the ages. Ultimately all evil shall return to its destination, as well as all Good, but ever blessed is the name of Almighty Allah, Lord of Glory, Honour and Bounty. Which, then of the favours of your Lord will you deny?

SURAH AL WAQI’AH:
This is the seventh and last Surah of the series devoted to Revelation and the Hereafter. It belongs to an early Makkan period, with the possible exception of one or two verses. The theme is certainly of the Day of Judgement and its adjustments of true Values. Allah’s Power, Goodness and Glory, and the Truth of Revelation.

Summary: – When the Day of Judgement comes, the world as we know it will be shaken to its foundations, and mankind shall be sorted out into three sorts: Those nearest to Allah, in exalted Bliss; the Companions of the Right Hand, in Bliss; and the companions of the Left Hand, in Misery. Surely the Power and Goodness of Allah, of which Revelation is a Sign, should lead man to accept the Message and glorify Him. Glory and Praise to Allah the Beneficent, Supreme to Justice, Mercy and Truth!

SURAH AL HADID:
With this Surah we have now studied the contents of nearly nine tenths of the Holy Qur’an. The comprehensive scheme of building up the new Ummah or Brotherhood and its spiritual implications is now complete. The remaining tenth of the Qur’an may be considered in two parts. The first contains ten Surahs i.e. Surahs 57 to 66 all revealed in Madinah, and each dealing with some special point which needs emphasis in the social life of the Ummah. The second i. e. Surah’s 67 to 94 contains short Makkan lyrics, each dealing with some aspect of spiritual life, expressed in language of great mystic beauty. The present Madinah Surah is chiefly concerned with the spiritual humility and the avoidance of arrogance, and a warning that retirement from the world may not be the best way of seeking the Good Pleasure of Allah.

Summary: – Allah’s Power and Knowledge extend to all things: Follow His Light direct, without doubt or fear or half-heartedness, but with humility, generous charity, and faith, and not in a life of isolation from the world.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Taraweeh Salaah – Night 22

By Sheikh Abdul Hamid Lachporia – Canada

In the Name of Almighty Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Tonight’s Tarawee consists of Ilayhi Yuraddu (JUZ 25) and the Surah’s that will be covered are: the concluding section of Surah Fussilat or Ha Min; Surah Al Shura; Surah Al Zukhruf; Surah Al Dukhan; and Surah Al Jathiyah.

SURAH AL SHURA:
The theme is how evil and blasphemy can be cured by the Mercy and Guidance of Allah, which come through His Revelation. Men are asked to settle their differences in patience by mutual Consultation which explains the title of this Surah.

Summary: – The Contrast of blasphemy against Revelation, Unity and Faith as relying on the Signs and Mercy of Allah. Evil comes through men’s own deeds, of which they cannot avoid the consequences, but Guidance comes through Allah’s Mercy and Revelation. Inspiration is part of the Glory and Goodness of Allah. His Unity is shown in His Creation. Yet man will turn to false gods, and dispute about Religion. Faith has been one at all times. But sects and divisions rose through selfish contumacy. Let all contention cease, and conduct weighed by the just balance of Allah’s Word. The Just and the Unjust will all be brought before Allah, Whose Mercy and Bounty are writ large in the Signs in His Marvellous Creation – one, yet diverse! What we call the ills of life is due to our own ill deeds; and many of them are forgiven by Allah. His Plan can never be frustrated. This life is but a stage of conscience. Live true and resist all wrong, but learn the best way to do so. Rely only on Allah, else no protector will you find. Allah’s Revelation comes as a Guide and Mercy. It shows the Straight Way, the Way of Allah All-Wise.

SURAH AL ZUKHRUF:
This Surah deals with the contrasts between the real glory of Truth and Revelation and the false glitter of what people like to believe and worship. It cites the examples of Nabee Ebrahim A.S; Nabee Moosa A.S; and Nabee Esa A.S. as exposing the False and holding up the Truth. The keyword [Zukhruf, Gold Adornments) occurs in verse 35, but the idea occurs all through the Surah.

Summary: -The Book of Revelations makes things clear, even though the ignorant and foolish mock at it and ignore Allah’s Signs: it will last, while its rejecters will perish will perish. Nabee Ebrahim exposed the falsehood of traditional worship: the glitter and adornments of this world will not last: what was the end of Fir’aun in his arrogant fight with Nabee Moosa A.S.? If Christians go back to Nabee Esa A.S.. he was but a man and a servant of Allah. He came to to still the jarring sects, not to create a new one. He preached the One True Creator, his Lord. So give up disputing and join in devotion to Allah. This is the Way to the Garden of Bliss, but the opposite leads to the Fire. Beware! the Truth has come, and Allah knows how you receive it. He is the Lord of power and mercy. The Truth must prevail: resist it not.

SURAH AL DUKHAN:
The theme of this particular Surah is how worldly pride and power are humbled in the dust if they resist spiritual forces, and how Evil and Good find their true setting in the Hereafter. The title word DUKHAN occurs in verse 10. It means smoke or mist, and may refer to a drought or famine. The “smoke” or “mist” is interpreted on good authority to refer to a severe famine in Makkah, in which men were pinched with hunger that they saw mist before their eyes when they looked at the sky. Ibn Kathir in his Tarikh mentions two famines in Makkah, one in 8th year of the mission, say the fourth year before the Hijrah, and another about the 8th year after the Hijrah. But as either or both of these famines lasted as many as seven years, the dates are to be taken very roughly. It is even possible that the two famines were continuous, of varying severity from year to year. Bukhari mentions only the post Hijrah famine, which was apparently so severe that men began to eat bones and carrion. Abu Sufyan (about 8 A.H.) approached the Nabee Sallallahoo Alayhi Wasallam to intercede and pray for the removal of the famine, as the Pagans attributed it to the curse of the Nabee S.A.W.

Summary: – Revelation explains clearly how worldly pride and arrogance may come to naught, even at long odds, against spiritual truths. A people may be given all blessings and may fall in its trust, as did the Bani Is’rail: will the Quraysh learn the lesson of Good and Evil? The children of Bani Is’rail were granted gifts and favours but they became arrogant and fell. Can the Quraysh escape the doom for sin? We created the world for just ends. The Day will come when good and evil will be sorted out. Each will meet the fruits of its own deeds. Give good heed to the Message revealed, and wait and watch.

SURAH AL JATHIYAH:
Summary: – The title, Al Jathiyah [“The Kneeling Down” or “Bowing the Knee”] taken from verse 28, expresses the leading idea in the Surah. In this life, in spite of the Signs of Allah, and the evidence of His Goodness all around, men go about in Unfaith, and mocking at Faith, but the end will bring them all to their knees. The Signs of Allah are everywhere. His Power, Wisdom, and Goodness are shown through all creation and in revelation. How can man be so ungrateful as to reject true Guidance, reaping thus the fruits of evil? But men of Faith have patience and forgive their weaker brethren, and trust in the final justice of Allah. Form no sects, as was done aforetime, nor make your lusts your gods. The future is sure, and in the hands of Allah, to Whom all will bend the knee, when Truth will shine in all its glory. So praise and glory to Allah, the Lord and Cherisher of all the worlds.

Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net