A Splendid Paragon: Walking on Eggshells

Sundays are the best day to spend time alone with our husband by going out and do something together. Trips to bookstores, friends’ humble home (who also unfailingly reminds us of Allah Ta’ala in everything that they do) and sometimes just quenching our thirst at the nearest lassi or juice joint- which has always been the highlight of our day, Masha’Allah.

My husband loves buying me books and I love reading them in return, regardless of what he bought me. All of the books he ever bought are on Deen and unfailingly it has always opened up my perspectives, as a guide sent by Allah (in a form of books) whenever I asked of Him. Alhamdulillah. Whenever we go to these bookstores, usually I’ll wait in the car as the bookstores are usually filled with ‘maulanas’. He bought me another 3 books (may Allah reward my husband with khair) and one of it simply titled, “A Gift to the Husband and Wife” by Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi. 

A Gift to the Husband and Wife by Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi

This is the translated version from its original Urdu book and hence, the language is to be excused a little (remember Yoda?), but, we shall never disregard the content. I took the liberty to write down the title for each chapter as it was not readily available (also for better future references).

The first chapter was a brief 2-page recollection of hadiths on the rights of both, husband and wife, and the second chapter reads, "The Importance of Staying Separately After Marriage". I'd say, this is interesting enough to read the rest of the 8-pages of this chapter. 

Its very informative and leads to the fact that Islam is just to its believers, in any situation and predicament.

Islam will not be 'the way of life' if its not guiding us towards achieving 'sukun', Insha'Allah.

Table of Contents

A Splendid Paragon : An Incident of Hadhrat Thanwi rahimahullah
Hadhrat Thanwi narrates: "The moment I got married, my father made me live on my own. Living separately has also been a custom in our family. My father provided a house as well as expenses for the house. I felt very ashamed (to take from him). I was concerned about getting a job. With due gratitude unto Allah Ta'ala, that also got sorted out (in Kanpur). A sum of 25rupees was fixed as a monthly income. I was under the impression that it is a very large sum and a wage of 10rupees should suffice. I remained alone for a few days. Then I called the family over (to Kanpur) as well. Experience proved to me that the sum of 25rupees was not after all surplus. The entire sum used to be spent.

From home, she was always requesting me to build a separate house. I continued averting and putting it off by advising her that we are to live in this world for a short while only. Why build a house? When I went for Hajj, she also followed later on. She complained to Haji Saheb Rahmatullahi alaihi (a reference to Haji Imdaadullah Saheb, the Shaikh of Hadhrat Thanwi) that she asked me to build a house and I am refusing to do so. Haji Saheb said to me, " Your wife is asking you to build a separate house for her. Is there any problem with that? This is quite appropriate as one is more comfortable in one's own house." I thought to myself that the wife devised a very convincing plan to build a house. I finally told Haji Saheb: " Very well. The house will be built." On our return (to India), the house was built and I also wrote to Haji Saheb about it. He replied, "May your house be Mubarak (blessed)."

Hadhrat Thanwi rahimahullah alaihi says, "After building a separate house, I realized that without it there was no peace and comfort. However, if somebody is in dire straits and he is unable to build a house, it is another matter altogether." (Malfoozat page 137-140)


Source taken from:
A Gift to the Husband and Wife, Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi, Kutub Khana Mazhari, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi.

Husband's and Wife's Duties in Islam

The husband’s duties to his wife are as follows: 

First Duty: To financially support his wife. This is a financial right, and includes: food, drink, clothing, and other basic needs. 

Allah says: “Someone who is well off should spend from his fortune, and whoever is poor should spend from what Allah gives him.” 

Islamic Law does not define this expenditure monetarily, but left it to the customary practices of society. 

The Prophet (peace be upon him) says: “Fear Allah when it comes to women, for they are helpers you took in faithfulness to Allah. You also find it permissible to enjoy their femininity lawfully with Allah’s word. You owe it to them to spend money on them for their food and clothes in kindness.” [Sahîh Muslim] 

The expenditure should be within the means of the husband. He should not be asked to spend what he cannot afford. 

Second Duty: To provide appropriate housing within the means of the husband. The wife has a right to her own home wherein she can feel comfortable. Allah says, regarding a newly divorced woman: “House them as you house yourselves as is available.” If this is for the divorced woman, then the wife who is under the marriage contract is worthier. 

Third Duty: Assisting them in their quest for salvation by teaching them their religion and reprimanding them for disobeying Allah. 

Allah says: “O believers! Protect yourselves and your families from a Fire which is fuelled by men and stones.” 

Fourth Duty: To pay a dower. This is a right which precedes the contract. It is a symbol of honoring the woman and it is not permissible to neglect it until after the contract. 

The wife’s duties to her husband are as follows: 

First Duty: Obedience. A wife should be as obedient as she can to her husband. This preserves the family and protects it from collapsing. This is part of Islam’s organizing of the family structure. The Prophet (peace be upon him) was asked: ‘Which women are the best?’ he answered: “The one who pleases him when he looks at her, obeys him when he asks something of her, and is not disobedient in herself or her money in what he hates.” [Musnad Ahmad] 

One should note that a wife’s obedience to her husband falls into one of four categories:

1- To ask her to do something this is commanded by Islam, such as the five prayers. Here the wife must obey her husband, and she would be considered sinful from two perspectives if she fails to obey.

2- To ask her to do something which is beneficial to him, or to refrain from doing something which is harmful to him, such as things which have to do with his food or clothes. She should obey him here unless there is a valid excuse not to.

3- To ask her to do something which falls into her personal affairs, such as asking her to give him money or forbidding her from speaking to a friend for no good reason. Here she can obey him if she wants but she does not have to. She should consider the benefit and harm of such obedience.

4- To order her to disobey Allah’s commands, and here she must disobey her husband.

Second duty: Not to leave the house unless the husband permits it. She should also never sleep outside the house unless she has permission. 

Third duty: To refrain from fasting voluntarily unless she has permission. Abu Hurayrah reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “It is not permissible for a woman to fast while her husband is present unless he permits it, nor is it permissible for her to allow anyone into the house unless he permits it.” 

Fourth duty: Not to let anyone into the house unless he permits it. This is also derived from the above-mentioned hadîth. 

Fifth duty: To guard his property. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The best women who have ridden camels are those of Quraysh. They are the most tender to a young child and guard what their husbands own.” [Sahîh al-Bukharî] 

Sixth duty: To serve and run the house in a reasonable fashion. This does not mean physical work on the part of the woman if a woman of her standing does not generally engage in physical work. It also does not mean physical work if her health does not permit it.

So, what are other rights of wife towards her husband, if everything has been taken care of for the husband? How would the wife feel useful when the husband don't seem to need her or calling her for anything else?

REFERENCE & SOURCE

1. http://www.al-islam.org/principles-marriage-family-ethics-ayatullah-ibrahim-amini/part-1-duties-women
2. http://sunnah.org/msaec/articles/responsibilities_husband.htm
3. http://en.islamtoday.net/node/570

The Selfless Mother of 4

During the time of 'Umar radi'Allahu anhu in 16 Hijri, the famous battle of Qadisiyah was fought between the Muslim and the Persians. Khansa' radi'Allahu anha, along with her four sons (Yazeed, Mu’awia, Amro and Amrah), took part in this battle.

On the eve of the battle, she encouraged all her four sons, saying, "O my sons! You embraced Islam and migrated of your own free will. By Allah, besides Whom there is no one worthy of worship, you all are the sons of the same father. I never betrayed your father, nor defamed your maternal uncle. I never allowed a blot to come on your high birth nor polluted your pedigree."

"You know what rewards Allah Ta'ala has promised for those who fight against the non-believers in His path. You must remember that the everlasting life of the Akhirah is far better than the transitory life of this world. Allah Ta'ala has said in the His Book:-



"O you who have believed, persevere and endure and remain stationed and fear Allah that you may be successful."- Surah 'Ali 'Imran

"When you get up tomorrow morning, be prepared to contribute your best in the battle. Go ahead into the enemy lines, seeking help from Allah Ta'ala. When you see the flames of battles rising high, get right into the centre and face the enemy chiefs. If Allah wills it, you will get your abode in Jannah with honour and success."

The next day, when the battle was in full swing, all the four sons advanced towards the enemy lines. One by one, they attacked the enemy, reciting the words of their mother in verse and fought till all of them were martyred.

When the mother got the news, she said,"Alhamdulillah, Glory to Allah Who has honoured me with their martyrdom. I hope that Allah Ta'ala will unite me with them under the shade of His Mercy."

Here is a mother of that time! She exhorts her sons to jump into the flames of battle and, when all the sons are killed in quick succession, she glorifies Allah Ta'ala and thanks Him. May we be like Khansa' and let our children travel in the path of Allah, rather than preferring them to be under their nose, at home, fearing for their safety and what not.

When Khansa returned to Madina, 'Umar radi'Allahu anhu went to her house to condole with her over the death of her sons. Khansa merely said: "Congratulate me, Amirul Mominin, 

For verily I am the mother of martyrs." 

Source taken from:-

Fada'il Amal, Stories of the Sahabah, pp 160.

Al-Shindagah, http://www.alshindagah.com/janfeb2002/Woman.htmlhttp://www.alshindagah.com/janfeb2002/Woman.html. Accessed on 3rd August 2014.

The Misunderstood Effort by the Tableeghi Jamaat

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Tableeghi Jamaat. Two words, that often brings much misinterpretation and often disregard as religious extremists movement in much trialed and tested present days. The main aim of tableegh (in Arabic means to convey) is to propagate the Islamic understanding externally and internally. This is a joint effort by group of dai’es (preachers) who are striving to implement the authentic Islamic way of life that was originally observed during the life and times of Rasulullah sallallahu alaihiwasallam and his blessed Companions. Masha’Allah. Tableeghi Jamaat often discouraged by those who have no knowledge about what it is all about, hence we rather keep swimming in the sea of dispute and ignorance, without even knowing we ask of Allah 17x and more for guidance towards the Siratul Mustaqeem. These effort sometimes, often refused even by our own family members.

To involve ourselves in the work of da’wah (inviting others towards Islam) and tableegh (conveying the message to Islam to humanity)is a noble work indeed. In Surah Fussilat (41) verse 33, Allah Ta’ala has said,“And who is better in speech than one who invites to Allah and does righteousness and says, "Indeed, I am of the Muslims."”.It is one of the encouraged act as part of our duty as a khalifah in this Dunya. The work of da’wah and tableegh is not a sole responsibility lies on one shoulder, rather a collective effort of the entire Ummah. The work of da’wah is also not solely should be done by those who are learned, the aalim, or the aalimah, but it is a joint effort by the Ummah. Narrated Anas bin Malik:The Prophet (ﷺ)said, "A single endeavor (of fighting) in Allah's Cause in the forenoon or in the afternoon is better than the world and whatever is in it." – Sahih Bukhari (2792). Imagine the rewards in going out in the path of Allah (concentrating on doing sole tableegh efforts), as narrated by Abu `Abs, (who is `Abdur-Rahman bin Jabir) Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)said," Anyone whose both feet get covered with dust in Allah's Cause will not be touched by the (Hell) fire." Sahih Bukhari (2811).

As how the blessed Sahabahs strove to be the best of Muslims in the era of Khair-ul-Qurun (best period of Ummah) by exemplifying the manner of Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam in piety, ikram, discipline, being selfless andmore, Masha’Allah. The Tableeghi Jamaat noble effort was initiated in the 1920s in India by Maulana Muhammad Ilyas Kandhalwi (from the Kandhlawi’s family that produced the likes of Fada’il Amal, Muntakhab Ahadiths and more). The effort was later succeeded by Muhammad Yusuf Kandhlawi as the Ameer of Tableeghi Jamaat.

We were first introduced to Tableeghi Jamaat in 2013 where we attended the bayans at Masjid Sri Petaling in Malaysia. On a weekly basis, the ladies attended taleem (readings from Fada’il Amal, Muntakhab Ahadith and a short muzakarahat the end of the session) in a sister’s home. The active attendance was forgotten after 3 months, though within those months, our mehram striving to keeping our imaan at par (or more Insha’Allah) by regularly attending the 3-days gathering at the new Karachi Ijtima’ place at Orangi town and giving taleem at home.

We get to experience firsthand of what it feels like to be part of the Tableeghi Jamaat. The trip was initially unplanned, however, by Grace of Allah, we were sent here, Alhamdulillah. Verily, Allah Ta’ala is the best of planners.

Masha’Allah, Our amazing experience started off at New Lynn(near Waitakere), where we only intend to join the taleem in the morning. By invitation, and for the thirst of knowledge, we decided to stay longer and Alhamdulillah, get to complete the 3-days stay. We learned new terms, new wayof doing things and realized how little do we know about Deen and the Sunnah,most importantly. The jamaat ladies gave karguzari (sharing experiences) about their spiritual journey in spreading Allah’s Deen before our meeting. The karguzari comprises of what they have done in their journey, who they have able to reach out to, places they’ve been to and how the responses are towards the tableegh effort and so on.

In the morning, we’ll take turns to read the Fada’il Amal ranging from the Seerah, Virtues of the Holy Qur’an, Salaat, Zikr, andTableegh. This has been decided in the musyawarah(meeting) between the ladies jamaat’s husbands a day earlier or so. Each of the sisters will take turn to read the selected collection of authentic hadiths pertaining each topic before proceeding to Muntakhab Ahadiths. Timing will be adhered to, for example, Kitabi Qur’an and Fehme Qur’an will take approximately 20 minutes, and everyday, the session will end before Zuhr salat with a 10-20 minutes of muzakarah(where the ladies, will again take turns to present the 6 qualities of the Sahabahs to follow Insha’Allah). The 6 qualities of a Muslim was also emphasizedby Luqman alaihi salam to his son. If we go through Surah Luqman, we will see that he was advising his son about these veryqualities only (concerning imaan, salat, ilm and zikr, ikram Muslimin, ikhlas,da’wah and tableegh).

We then, moved to our next location in the morning after an wholesome breakfast (Masha’Allah, by the host, anda short muzakarah by one of representative from the men’s jamaat before leaving),to Mangere for our little mission on the 31^st May. We’ve stayed there for 3 days and 2 nights. What has been observed during these 3-days was Masha’Allah, the ikram among us (that I never get to personally experience everin my entire life- being selfless), an eye-opener series of bayans by theinvited maulanas, sisterhood and questions and answers session whenever we arefree of khidmat (assigned tasks at the host’s place). The locals usually will join us after Zuhr salat to listen to the bayans, alongside the readings of Muntakhab Ahadiths. Purdah were observed and preserved at all times, where the ladies and men stayed in separate assigned accommodations, no communications with each.Husbands and wives only meet in a designated short duration of time during amulakat (meeting). Purdah were also observed strictly by the ladies jamaat especially, where they’d covered themselves completely (felt embarrassed by being around them, and felt the niqab was nothing)

We departed from the tableeghi jamaat group after 3 days ( 3^rd of June ) as they will commence their blessed journey towards the areas in South Island. We attended a follow-up (jord) on the 8^th of June, again, by invitation(Alhamdulillah, knowing that we are still babies in this work of da’wah and tableegh)



Insha'Allah, today (19th June 2014) we will be continuing our effort (may Allah accept our deeds and intention) for the 10-days jamaat. May Allah ease the path of those in the journey in spreading da'wah, even in gasht by the men). Insha'Allah.

Allah Ta'ala knows best and I know nothing, Alhamdulillah.

REFERENCE

1. Dawat O Tabligh & Islah. http://tablighijamaattruth.blogspot.co.nz/2012/03/mufti-taqi-usmani-on-tablighi-jamaat.html.Accessed on 12th June 2004.
2. Muntakhab Ahadith. http://muntakhabahadith.com/content.html.Accessed on 13th June 2014.
3. Questions Regarding Jama’ah Tabligh.http://www.albalagh.net/qa/tablighqa.shtml.Accessed on 12th June 2014.
4. Sunni Forum. http://www.sunniforum.com/forum/showthread.php?36851-Tabligh-its-our-duty.Accessed on 12^th June 2014.

The Homemakers of Dannemora

Purdah-bound and taqwa-conscience, naturally beautiful but fashionable (for their husbands Alhamdulillah), simplicity at its best, definitely not culture-bound, the madrasah for their children, selfless (Masha’Allah!), reserved but yet comical and animated (among the ladies only, of course); these are the best words to describe the homemakers of Dannemora, one of the suburbs in South Auckland, New Zealand.

Progressive Way, Laidlaw Way

Te Irirangi Drive and Ormiston Road Junction

Stepping into the home of the homemakers of Dannemora  will remind you of the one ummah, united by the kalimah, love for one another for Allah’s sake alone, Subhan’Allah. When most of homes will have a television set in the main hall, we will enter into a small library comprising of the children’s Tas-heel series books, Seerah and salira, the tafseer, the Qur’an, collection of ahadiths, muntakhab ahadith, fada’il amal etc. 

 

Their homes are always open to guests, but, no one has ever taken advantage of it. Attempting at exemplifying the Sunnah way of life in their homes, the homemakers in this part of the suburbs excelled in implementing such conducts , as sternly as possible, regardless of the fact that they choose to settle around the non-Muslims, for the sake of attaining Allah Ta’ala’s pleasure alone, Subhan’Allah. Adorning knee-length khimar at home, even without the presence of the non-Mehrams, the ladies believe that hijab and purdah needs to be observed and instilled among the children, so that they are being nurtured, disciplined according to the Sunnah since at the very young age. The result? It’s amazing, as we could observe these children, as young as 4 years old understanding the difference between mehrams and non-Mehrams. Hijab is not merely about covering our aurat, but also with our voice and even our shadow. In one of the ladies' home, we used to knock as a non-Mehram alert sign, Masha'Allah.

Knee-length khimar

Two homes of these amazing ladies located just less than 2 minutes’ walk from the Dannemora Islamic Centre. Conveniently having an Aalimah as their next door neighbor and whom also teaching their kids at the centre after school, practicing Deen has been rewarding for them so far Alhamdulillah. We can’t help but to remember the Sahabiah and the wives of Rasulullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam by just being around them, Subhan’Allah. We too, can’t help but (not only wishing to) to practice the Deen and bring it to higher level by being around them, the company of the pious. When being asked as to why they prefer to stay at home and be a full time housewife, the ladies,  answered and among many reasons is to take good care of the amanah given to them by Allah Ta’ala; their children. One of them even decided to homeschool her children (she used to teach in a madrasah, Masha’Allah).The nurturing of Deen is apparent in each of these household.  None of these home have a single television set and the children are used to it, so much so that they don’t even bother watching one at someone else’s home. When one of the children is being asked as to why they do not watch television, the answer was amazing – “because it’s a fitna and TV will make me forget the hadiths I’ve memorized “ – Subhan’Allah! Resulting from such Sunnah-way-of-style-upbringing, the children of Dannemora have nothing but good manners Masha’Allah and the number of du’as they’ve memorized since 3 years old are amazing Subhan’Allah!

Dannemora Islamic Centre

Their husband’s humble income does not entice them at all to go out and work (and mixing around with the non-Mehrams), rather, they are more than happy to serve their husbands and the children, just like Saidatina Fatimah radi’Allahu anha, Subhan’Allah. Women only may need to go to work, if and only if, their husband’s income does not suffice to cover their basic needs or when the women themselves are high maintenance, according to them. Their humble home suggests simplicity, but purdah-conscience for the non-Mehrams. This simply means that whenever their husband’s friends or even relatives, are guests to these houses, a room will be already allocated for these men to have their meal and chat, while the women will be in a separate room, making it inaccessible for the non-Mehram to see them, let alone hearing their voices, Masha’Allah. The elder children will be the messengers, the ‘waitresses’ for them whenever meals are ready to be served in these separate rooms.

So, do they ever go out? Well, they do drive out to fetch their kids from school once in a while besides getting groceries (and sometimes, the kids would carpool with other ladies from the same suburb – such amazing ikram) besides taking turn babysitting each other’s children, whenever one of them goes for 3-, 10-, or 40-days masturat jamaat.  Masha’Allah, they never put Deen aside in their busy schedule (even as homemakers!). These ladies connected with the other masturat around the suburbs (East Tamaki, Papatoetoe, Mangere, Onehunga) in taleem and ta’lum, which held every weekend. 

Each of these ladies have their own stories, regardless whether it’s a happy ones or not, being a Muslimah homemakers always keep them happy and ready to serve, for their main aim is only to attain Jannah. Each of them has taught us to be a better Muslimah Alhamdulillah. They will make us realize that this Dunya is nothing … completely nothing as compared to what Jannah has to offer. They are definitely the best role-model to follow in adapting a Muslim home in this tested times and Alhamdulillah we've meet them in order to learn more about ourselves and accepting our mistakes and weaknesses.

May Allah Ta’ala elevate their status in the Dunya and in the Akhirah (and may they all attain Jannatul Firdous) for everything good they’ve done and more for the people around them, Allahumma Aameen.

What would you do...if the Prophet Visited You?

..sallallahu alaihi wasallam.

I wonder……………………

If Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wasallam visited you

Just for a day or two,

If he came unexpectedly,

I wonder what you would do?

Oh I know you would give your nicest room,

To such an honored guest,

And you would serve him your very best.



You would be the very best,

Cause you’re glad to have him there,

That serving him in your home

Would be a joy without compare.



But…when you see him coming,

Would you meet him at the door

With your arms outstretched in welcome,

To your visitor?



Or…would you have to change your clothes

before you let him in?

Or hide some magazines and put

The Qur’an where they had been?



Would you still watch those movies,

Or your T.V. set?

Or would you switch it off,

Before he gets upset.



Would you turn off the radio,

And hope he had not heard?

And wish that you did not utter

your last loud hasty word?



Would you hide your worldly music,

And instead take out Hadith books?

Could you let him walk right in,

Or would you rush about?



And I wonder…if the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam spent, a day or two with you,

Would you go on doing the things you always do?

Would you go right on and say the things You always say?

Would life for you continue

As it does from day to day?



Would your family conversations,

Keep up their usual pace?

And would you find it hard each meal,

To say a table grace?



Would you keep up each and every prayer?

Without putting on a frown?

And would you always jump up early,

For Fajr at dawn?



Would you sing the songs you always sing?

And read the book you read?

And let him know the things on which,

Your mind and spirit feed?



Would you take the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam with you,

Everywhere you plan to go?

Or, would you maybe change your plans,

Just for a day or so?



Would you be glad to have him meet,

Your very closest friends?

Or, would you hope they stay away,

Until his visit ends?



Would you be glad to have him stay,

Forever on and on?

Or would you sigh with great relief,

When he at last was gone?



It might be interesting to know,

The things that you would do.

If Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wasallam came,

To spend some time with you

Source

http://www.onislam.net/english/shariah/muhammad/reflections/423844-prophet-visit-you-birthday-sin-repent.html

Tale-Bearing: A Gravely Major Sin

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It is recorded in the two Sahihs that the Messenger of Allah sallallahu alaihi wasallam is reported to have said that a tale-bearer (to harm others) will not enter Paradise. Fudail Ibn 'Iyad rahmatullahi alaih says that there are three evil deeds of man that destroy all his righteous actions . They are: [I] backbiting; [2] tale-bearing; and [3] lying.'Ata' Ibn Sa'ib rahmatullahi alaih says that he asked Sha'bi rahmatullahi alaih about the Prophetic Tradition in which the Messenger of Allah sallallahu alaihi wasallam is reported to have said:"Three types of people will not enter Paradise: [I] a murderer; [21 a tale-bearer; and [31 a trader who is involved in usury." 'Ata' Ibn Sa'ib rahmatullahi alaih says that I cited this Tradition to Sha'bi and asked him in a surprising tone that the Holy Prophet sallallahu alaihi wasallam has equated 'a tale-bearer' with a murderer and a usurer. He replied: "Indeed, tale-bearing is the root cause of murder and usurpation of wealth." [Qurtubi]

وَامْرَأَتُهُ حَمَّالَةَ الْحَطَبِ

And his wife [as well] - the carrier of firewood. - Surah Lahab (111:4)

Idiomatically, Arabs use this expression to refer to a 'tale-bearer ', that is,one who gathers pieces of gossip and carries them between individuals and families in order to ignite the fires of discord and enmity between people, exactly as one would gather firewood to kindle the fire. This telltale woman improperly carried information concerning the private affairs of the Messenger of Allah sallallahu alaihi wasallam, and the blessed Companions in an attempt to ignite and instigate trouble. In this verse too, the phrase 'the carrier of firewood' has been interpreted by Sayyidina Ibn 'Abbas radi'Allahu anhu,Mujahid, 'Ikrimah rahmatullahi alaih; and a group of commentators to mean that 'She was a tale-bearer' while Ibn Zaid, Dahhak and other commentators rahmatullahi alaih retain it in its original sense, and explain that she literally used to collect thorny branches from the jungle, and place them in the path of the Messenger of Allah sallallahu alaihi wasallam in order to harm him -hence the description: 'carrier of firewood'. [Qurtubi, Ibn Kathir].

REFERENCE

1. Ma'ariful Qur'an, Surah Lahab (111), Mufti Muhammad Shafi Usmani Rahimahullah pg 911-912

2. The Meanings of the Noble Qur'an with explanatory notes, Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani

Reality Bites!

Its in the reality that we are born as a Muslim but we deliberately choose not to lead a life as how a Muslim should according to the Qur'an and Sunnah. We recite, ponder and cry over the meanings of the Qur'an and thats all there it is. We can cry and follow a novel attentively, until we take it with us to the washroom! If only we are as that attentive with Qur'an and Hadiths (not saying we are encouraged to take these to the washroom though!).Its disheartening to see Muslims around us take these for granted...take Akhirah for granted. Qur'an were being picked, ready to be recited and as soon as our favourite show on television starts, we put the Qur'an aside. Astaghfirullahaladzim! That's how valuable Qur'an is in our life :'(

That's just Qur'an, how about the Sunnah? We, women questions about hijab (can we imagine about niqab?), questioning blindly of Allah's commandment, with the excuse 'I'm not ready' or 'Allah haven't granted me the Hidayah' (Hidayah needs to be asked by us, not waited for). We women, too, find such entertainment and enjoyment to discuss and backbite about others, with such filthy, obscene language being used to express our feelings and let them known to public just for attention sake. Of course, Shaytan clapped his hands harder everytime saying, "Good job! However I will leave you alone in the Akhirah though you have enjoin me in evil".

Then comes Seerah, how many of us would take that time to learn and follow the life of our Blessed Rasulullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam, the women in his time, and his Blessed Companions? How many of us know the details of their struggle? Which war he did not participated in? The blessed people who are already granted Jannah? Which Sahabah assisted in compiling the Qur'an? Why Qur'an were revealed in stages and not arranged according to its revelation? Instead, we keep track of which singers just released their latest albums, the new boutique in town to visit, who is the best team in EPL? Who won the golden boot last year? Astaghfirullahaladzim.

Allah Ta'ala has regard us, His favourite, because we are the Ummah of Rasulullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam, but what are we doing for our Akhirah? Do we live up to the Love and Mercy that Allah Ta'ala has given us???TIME is ALL that we have and time is ALL that we're wasting on.Indeed, we have been mentioned, discussed, and showed as an example (good or bad) in the Qur'an? Does that not make you tremble enough as yet???"I swear by the time, Most surely man is in loss, Except those who believe and do good, and enjoin on each other truth, and enjoin on each other patience."- Surah Al-'Asr (103:1-3)  

Now, ever wonder why our du'as are not being accepted? Allah knows best and I know nothing. 

#thevalueofAkhirah #fulltimeMuslim #IslamIsEasy

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• Where mom is!
• You pick on your sister and mom still siding you..
• You never spend a second alone (‘cuz mom will always come to your room, lie beside you on your bed, play with your nose and ask, “What are you doing?”)
• When you put on make-up on dad’s face while he’s in deep sleep!
• Where you don’t need to ask permission to use things...ever!
• When you open the fridge and mom says, “Hungry? Me too!”
• Where laughter never ends
• Where you have dozens of pillows you don’t really need
• Where coffee is 24/7!
• When we only cry if we laughed too much!
• When mom just hugs you for no reason
• Where you sings in shower on Saturdays
• When you sing outloud and the neighbor join you in the harmony
• When mom takes care of you when you're sick as if you're dying
• Where you pick vegetables from your own little garden
• Feeling excited to go to the market with mom at 5.30a.m!
• Blocking dad’s way while he’s brisk walking at home.
• You clean your own mess or else mom will scream at you
• Where you feel carefree
• Where we baked the cake with mom with blue icing!
• Where, when you shut the door for hours and dad calls you for dinner, “Here birdie birdie, dinner is here”
• Nobody will question you if you have broken a glass
• Where everyone is a morning person
• Drinking your coffee on the saucer just like a cat does
• Exploring recipes with mom
• Where the conversation goes on and on…
• McDonalds for breakfast when mom wants a sundae!
• Looking at mom singing while making food
• Staring at dad doing his Copacabana moves
• When dad calls for a request ‘Mariah Carey, please sing a song for us’
• You sleep anywhere when the relatives have a sleep over
• Looking at mom watering her plants with such joy in the morning.
• Doing tricks to dad’s newspaper while he’s reading it
• Where you painted your own home
• When your parents admires you for the littlest of things that you do.
• When dad stares sarcastically at your face while you’re making that lame jokes
• When you go for a 2 hours’ drive just because mom wants and very much adamant to see the seaside :D
• Your parents don’t really bother looking at your report cards
• Where we shuts the television volume and make our own scripts
• Sit and talk for hours with your next-door neighbours
• Wake up early just to get that favorite 'nasi lemak'

Note: based on true story :D

In the Grapevine

Remember that game we used to play when we were young? The little game where we will sit in a circle, spaced about arm’s length apart, the game begin as soon as a message whispered once from the originator to the person sitting next to him or her until it reaches the last person in the circle (who would sit next to the originator). Finally, he or she will then say the message outloud. Seldom does the message arrive in its original form. Messages often altered by someone in the circle, or out of anxiety (one of the possible causes). The game is often known as the Telephone game, the Secret Message game, Gossip or the Grapevine game. 

We have this little experiment on this game with the International School's kids during a break from our drama practice. The students were told to keep in mind on these three things; Who's fault was it that the message came out wrong? Was the message too long or too short? What is the problem in this method of communication (whispering, that is), and can we trust the messenger?. [3] 



WHO'S FAULT WAS IT?

Nobody knows. How do we know if one of the players alters the message? Can we really point a finger to a specific individual just to close the case? Even after listening to the messenger and the originator, we can’t really decide as whatever that had happened, it happen in the grapevine. Similarly when we watch that gossip show on television on the local scene; Melodi, Galaksi, HipTV, just to name a few, that often begin their interview with,”You know, we heard from someone,..not sure if its true, can you please verify?…” or in Malay language, “Ada orang kata.. adalah orang yang katakan,..kita tak tau la betul ke tidak, bole jelaskan?..”  
It was narrated that Abu Qalaabah radi’Allahu anhu said: Abu Mas’ood said to Abu ‘Abd-Allaah, or Abu ‘Abd-Allaah said to Abu Mas’ood: What did you hear the Messenger of Allaah sallallahu alaihi wasallam say about saying “they say…”? He said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah sallallahu alaihi wasallam say: “How bad it is for a man to keep saying, ‘They say…’. ” al-Silsilah al-Saheehah, 866.

Hence our righteous forebears were keen to establish proof and were wary of rumours.

And the students had answered after looking at each other, “We don’t know”. 


WERE THE MESSAGE TOO LONG/ TOO SHORT?

It was narrated that al-Mugheerah ibn Shu’bah said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah has forbidden you to disobey your mothers, to bury your daughters alive, to not pay the rights of others and to beg from others. And He dislikes gossip for you, asking too many questions, and wasting money.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2231.

There are three points of view as to the meaning of this hadeeth [1]:

1 – That it indicates that it is makrooh (disliked) to speak too much, because it leads to mistakes.

2 – That it refers to wanting to pass on what people say and looking for that in order to tell others of it, so that one can say, “So and so said such and such, and Such and such was said…” The prohibition on this is either a rebuke for doing too much of it or it refers to a particular type of talk, which the person spoken of dislikes to have mentioned.

3 – That it refers to narrating differences of opinion concerning religious matters, such as saying, “This one said such and such and that one said such and such.” The reason why this is disliked is that speaking of such matters may lead to mistakes. This applies especially to those who transmit such views without verifying them, merely imitating those whom they hear without exercising any caution. I say: this is supported by the saheeh hadeeth, “It is enough sin for a man to speak of everything that he hears.” (narrated by Muslim).

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM IN THIS METHOD OF COMMUNICATION?

Whispering is the devil’s weapon. Let’s not blame on the game entirely. Whispering often can cause sadness or hurt the person who are not in the ‘game’.

It is improper for two people to talk secretively in the presence of a third person. This behavior might cause the third person to feel bad or excluded. Imams Bukhari and Muslim reported that the prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) said, “If you were three, then do not whisper between the two of you ignoring the third till the number increases. This is because whispering will sadden him.” [5]

The kids’ responses were, “They shouldn’t be whispering”, “Some can’t even pronounce the word right, not fair”, “The person sitting next to me have a bad breath”, “I can’t hear her voice, its too soft”, “His saliva is all over my ear”



CAN WE TRUST THE MESSENGER? OR THE WITNESS(ES)?

Zaid b. Khalid al-Juhani reported Allah's Apostle (ﷺ) as saying: “Should I not tell you of the best witnesses? He is the one who produces his evidence before he is asked for it.” Sahih Muslim, 1719, Book 30, Hadith 25/ Book 18, Hadith 4268. [4]

“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah , ” .. that is to carry out justice for the sake of Allah’s pleasure alone, only then it will be true and just in the real sense, free from diversion,  changes, and lies. “even if it be against yourselves”..become a just witness even though it will harm yourself. If we are being asked for something, answer with the truth even if we know it will give us the bad outcome, because Allah Ta’ala will provide ways for things to be solved for those who obeys Him. “or parents and relatives. ”.. And even when we have to become a witness against our own blood, do not protect them, but be a witness for what is true, even when it will cause them harm, for the truth will be the ending for every soul. “Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. “..do not protect them due to their wealth, and do not pity them just because they are poor, for Allah will take care of them. He’s More Paramount for either both of you and He Knows better what’s good for both of them. ”- Surah An-Nisa (4:135). [4]

“So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. ”.. do not follow our nafs, fanatic feeling,  or hatred in giving fair judgement as a witness in every matters. Keep a strong will on being just  in any situation.” And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.”.. So, be fair and just, for it is near to Taqwa (righteousness) -Surah Al-Ma’idah(5:8). [4]

From Quran.com “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah , witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah ; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.”- Surah Al-Ma’idah(5:8)[4] 

Unanimously,  the final response from the kids was, “We shouldn’t trust anyone, especially strangers!” RIGHT!

Allah knows best and I know nothing, Alhamdulillah!  

REFERENCE

1. Beware of Rumours at times of Crisis, http://islamqa.info/en/14212 , Accessed on 28th Feb 2014.
2. Commentaries (italicize) – Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Tafsirul Quranil ‘Azimi Jilid 4, 1421 H/ 2000 M:309-310. 
3. R.E.A.L International School, Class 5 and 6, Bukit Jelutong, Cahaya SPK, Selangor.
4. Tafseer and Terjemah Al-Haramain,pp 100. 
5. The Islamic Manners of Gatherings,http://islam1.org/khutub/Manners_of_Gathering.htm, Accessed on 28th February 2014.

Be a Sponge and Do the Right Thing

“O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” – Surah Al-Baqarah (2:153)

In despair and feeling dejected, your tears starts to fall and when your heart begin to channel your sadness in a trembling voice, your lips cried , “Oh Allaah!”. Quickly, the Adzan calls for prayer and indeed, Allaah call for us FIVE times a day and we don’t even realize it most of the time, and at that very moment of needing a shoulder to cry upon, we feel so much that Allaah is comforting us, “I’m here, confide in Me in your prayers”. We ignore His call mostly because either we’re busy with the Dunya, or we just ignore His calls for no reason.

CONFIDE IN ME IN YOUR PRAYERS (SALAT/ NAMAZ)

How many of us really understand that, through prayers, is when we are actually communicating with Allaah? How many of us would understand, acknowledge it or even know what we are actually asking for in our prayers? How many of us do actually cry incessantly in our prostration, the time when we are the most near to our Creator? And how many of us often rush in performing our prayers because our break time is almost over at work, or fear missing the final minutes of a game on the sports channel?

Seems like we have been taking prayers for granted; just as a ritual. Prayers are not only for the oppressed, the poor or the distressed. Prayers are meant for everyone including those who are blessed with everything. Alhamdulillah. It is sad to know and realize that we only remember Allaah when we’re afflicted by trials. And most of the time when we are fine and dandy, we are far away from Allaah.

رَبِّ إِنِّي لِمَا أَنزَلْتَ إِلَيَّ مِنْ خَيْرٍ فَقِيرٌ

“My Lord, indeed I am, for whatever good You would send down to me, in need.” (Surah Al-Qasas:28:24)

Remember that feeling when we received our first job salary? Probably, we have a list of things we wish to get with that ‘big’ amount of money. Out of joy and excitement, we spend it hastily and end up asking ourselves with all the shopping bags and gifts unwrapped, with things arranged at its place, “That’s it? What actually did I bought and use the money for?”



WITH HARDSHIP COME EASE

With prayers, we need to accompany it with being patient. According to Imam Ahmad Rehmatullah Alaih, “Allaah has mentioned patience in the Qur’an in ninety places.”

Don’t ever give up as Allaah has assured us in the Qur’an from Surah Ash-Sharĥ (94) TWICE, in ayat 5-8, that with hardship come ease. After we have tried our best and done what is needed, then the next thing to do is to leave it to Allah alone, in prayers. It’s easy to choose to dwell in vulnerability but, let’s look at the next ayat from Surah Ar-Rad (13:11), “…Indeed, Allaah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves….” . Just like any other verses of the Qur’an, often we mistakenly, and take it for granted by digesting the tafseer and terjemah in a worldly context, often quoting it in its literal meaning, in its obvious letters. We can truly accept that, changing the condition of oneself simply means the change solely comes from your heart, alone i.e., our intention. Be kind to those who are unkind towards us. Allaah does not need our prayers, He don’t look at how comfortable our life is after struggling to accumulate wealth, our worldly achievements. By our sincere and pure intention, He wishes to see how we benefit others with our gain. As indeed, Allaah’s favourite are those who are among the poor. Have a lot of patience by being around them. And with patience, we persevere.


BE A SPONGE!

The thing about us, the slaves of Allaah Ta’ala is that we wish to see instant results- the favorable outcomes and often in the process, we turn to others and complain to others, instead of Allaah. We express ungratefulness of Allaah’s Mercy by often overlooking the blessings in each and everything in life. We complain on how we do not own or get certain things we wished for. That’s when perseverance sets in. Let’s follow the examples of Rasulullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam or Nabi Ayyub alaihi salam.

With Rasulullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam, “Despite being exiled from his home, losing his loved ones, being abused and suffering near starvation, he never wavered in his character. He was patient in doing good, patient in refraining from evil even when he was tempted with wealth and women, and he was patient when afflicted with calamity. All of his children died in his lifetime except Fatima (ra). He lost his wife and two of his uncles whom he loved dearly. Those who followed him were tortured. Yet he persisted in praying in the night, was described as always smiling and never hesitated to help people. His patience was in perseverance and never questioning the will of Allah.

As of Nabi Ayyub alaihi salam, who was not only patient with his affliction but he was content! He lost all 14 of his children, his wealth and the companionship of the people because of his disease. Yet when he was asked to supplicate for Allah to heal him, he said “Allah gave me 50 years of blessings, should I not be patient with the same number of years of hardship?” Subhan’Allah! He never complained of his illness. Of course, we should always ask Allaah to help us but what we should take from this, is he wasn’t angry with Allaah and never questioned His will.”

TELL IT TO ALLAAH,… only!

Say, "O My servants who have believed, fear your Lord. For those who do good in this world is good, and the earth of Allah is spacious. Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account."- Surah Az-Zumar (39:10) 

Some people that we meet will remind us of Allaah in various perspectives. There are those who reminded us of Allaah in terms of their deeds, amal and ibadah, and some others would remind us by being a test for us themselves. It is actually up to us and how we perceive it that determines the outcome of our own good deeds In Shaa Allaah. May Allaah Ta’ala guide us on this temporary Dunya journey with patience, perseverance and in prayers always, In Shaa Allaah.

Allaah knows best and I know nothing, Alhamdulillah.

REFERENCE

1. Huda, Patience, Perseverance and Prayer,http://islam.about.com/od/prayer/a/patience.htm. Accessed on 17th February 2014.
2. Ibn al Qayyim rahimahullah,Allaah Has Mentioned It 90 Times!,http://istighfar.wordpress.com/Allaah-has-mentioned-it-90-times/. Accessed on 17th February 2014.
3. Jinan Bastaki, Allah is with the Patience,http://www.suhaibwebb.com/personaldvlpt/character/allah-is-with-the-patient/ . Accessed on 23rd February 2014.
4. John (Yahya) Ederer, Patience, Perseverence, and Fortitude,http://www.suhaibwebb.com/personaldvlpt/character/patience-perseverance-and-fortitude/, Accessed on 19th February 2014.
5. The Virtues of Patience and Prayer, http://www.qtafsir.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=281&Itemid=36. Accessed on 20th February 2014.
6. Yusra Owais (Amatullah), Six Benefits of Patience from the Qur’an,http://www.suhaibwebb.com/personaldvlpt/character/six-benefits-of-patience-from-the-quran/comment-page-1/. Accessed on 19th February 2014.

The Jokes is On You

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Joking around is encouraged in Islam, in a permissible way, in order to create sustainable bond and warmth in relation. This is encouraged especially among family members, relatives, friends, and among colleagues, classmates and so on (excluding the mixing of non-Mehrams, of course). Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam do jokes around whenever he’s being in the company of his wives and the Companions. Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam said: ‘No old woman will ever enter heaven.’ The woman turned away crying. Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam said to those nearby: ‘Tell her that no woman goes into heaven as an old woman.’ He then read the Qur’anic verses: “We have created (their Companions) of special creation, And made them virgin - pure (and undefiled), “ – Surah Al- Waqiah (56: 35-36). Sadly that these days, the jokes revolves around making fun of people, belittling them, mocking at their physics, calling nicknames, more often than not involve backbiting, and most of the time, lies often involved to spice things up a little bit.


Islam is perfect Masha’Allaah that it gives us guidance, a perfect, fine and transparent blueprint for EVERY SINGLE thing for us to apply in our daily life. And that guidance described completely in Qur’anul Kareem. Subhan’Allaah. Even topics or guidelines for any single act, as trivial (perhaps to some) as making jokes. Now, imagine, all of our lives, how many foul jokes we’ve made on people, and have we ever consider (if we do have some conscience) how the other person actually feels? And all that we care about is being a famous comedian in the crowd.


Anas ibn Malik reports: “A man asked the Prophet to give him a mount. The Prophet said to him: ‘I will give you a she-camel’s baby.’ The man said: ‘What use do I have for a she-camel’s baby?’ The Prophet said: ‘What camel is not born to a she-camel?’” (Related by Ahmad, Al-Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood and Al-Bukhari in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad). Here we see the Prophet making a joke, as he tells the man who requests a mount that he would give him a she-camel’s son. The man takes it literally and thinks that the Prophet is giving him only a young camel that is not fit to travel any distance carrying a man on his back. But the Prophet explains that every camel is the baby of a she-camel [2]

Joking, Laughing and Having Fun the Shariah Way

So, what are the permissible ways in making jokes in Islam? As long as it DOES NOT…

i)    make fun of any aspect of Islam. This involves making jokes of the Qur’anic verses, The Blessed Prophets, Malaikats, the commandments of Allaah (making fun of covering aurats, following Sunnah). The most feared of all as this may nullify one’s belief and can make a person becomes a Kafir (Sheikh Al-‘Uthaymeen). Allaah Ta’ala says,” And if you ask them, they will surely say, "We were only conversing and playing." Say, "Is it Allaah and His verses and His Messenger that you were mocking?” Make no excuse; you have disbelieved after your belief. If We pardon one faction of you - We will punish another faction because they were criminals.”- Surah At-Tawbah (9:65-66)

ii)  jokes pertaining Haram matters

iii) make us invent lies after lies. We often do this whenever we wish for our children to listen to us. Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam): “Do you joke with us?” Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam replied: “I do, but I only say that which is true” (Al-Bukhari, Tirmidhi) and in another hadith, Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam said, “Woe to the one who speaks and tells a lie in order to make the people laugh at it. Woe to him. Then again, woe to him.”(Al-Tirmidhi)

iv)    ridicule people. And Allaah Ta’ala says,” “O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them. And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames. Wretched is the name of disobedience after [one's] faith. And whoever does not repent - then it is those who are the wrongdoers.”-Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11). So, how many times have we did make fun of people with physical disabilities, with speech impairment, and so on?

v)     make us feel glad/ happy to see others being afflicted with misfortune. Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam said, “Do not express malicious joy towards your brother’s misfortune, for Allaah may have mercy on him and you may be stricken by the thing you made fun of.” (Al-Tirmidhi). Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam said,” ‘It is not permissible for a Muslim to frighten another Muslim.’” (Narrated by Abu Dawood).   
“Some people make fun of a person’s appearance, manner of walking or vehicle. But there is the fear that Allaah may requite the one who makes fun of others because of that. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “Do not express malicious joy towards your brother’s misfortune, for Allaah may have mercy on him and you may be stricken by the thing you made fun of.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi).”[2]

vi)    involve backbiting. “(Backbiting is) your mentioning about your brother something that he dislikes.” (Muslim). According to Ibn Kathir “What is meant here is looking down on them, belittling them or making fun of them. This is haraam and is counted as one of the characteristics of the hypocrites.”  

vii)   lead us to having excessive laughter while joking around. Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam said: “Do not laugh too much, for laughing too much deadens the heart.” (Sahih al-Jaami). ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab radi’Allaahu anhu said: “Whoever laughs too much or jokes too much loses respect, and whoever persists in doing something will be known for it.”

viii) the time is right. Sufyaan ibn ‘Uyaynah radi’Allaahu anhu said, “ It (joking) is Sunnah, but only for those who know how to do it and do it at the appropriate time.”. Some of us jokes around, uttering foul words while having food.. imagine the du'a we're making while having food and once we have the food, it will be part of us. Sometimes we jokes around in serious matters too. May Allaah Ta'ala forgive us Aameen.

ix)  no foul language is being used. Rasulullah sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam said: “The Muslim does not slander, curse, speak obscenely or speak rudely.” (Al-Tirmidhi).

x)     we do not discriminate them based on status. We make fun of politicians, ‘ulama, teachers, our relatives (who are older than us), or even those who are younger than us. ‘Umar ibn ‘Abd al-‘Azeez said: “Fear joking, for it is folly and generates grudges.”


It’s a constant challenge every day to be around people who are not Deen-inclined and walking away is often the best thing to do rather than sit around, swallow the nonsense and getting sins for free. We are encouraged to choose righteous companions, those who keeps reminding us of Allaah Ta’ala, who will keep and help us in being steadfast in our ibadah, and whose examples we can follow.

A reminder for myself, first and foremost, Allaah knows best and I know nothing, Alhamdulillah.

REFERENCE 

[1] Conditions of permissible joking- Fatwa No.22170, Abd al-Malik al-Qaasim.http://islamqa.info/en/22170. Accessed on 13th February 2014.

[2] Frightening a Muslim, Backbiting, Truth and Lies, Safeguarding the TongueBahishti Zewar (Heavenly Ornaments), Maulana Muhammad Ashraf Ali Thanvi (2009). pp 491,492,457. Darul Ishaat Urdu Bazaar, Karachi.

[3] 11 Rules in Islam On Joking, Muslimah, Sept 14th,http://amuslimsistermaria200327.wordpress.com/2009/09/14/15-rules-in-islam-on-joking/. Accessed on 13th February 2014.