May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him

The Generosity of the Prophet(pbuh)

The Prophet (pbuh) was the most generous person in giving away what he owned, and he would never look at something as being either too big or too insignificant to give up for the sake of Allah.

Nobody would ask him for anything except that he gave it to them, regardless of how big or small it was.

He gave things away in a way that made it seem that he never feared poverty, and generosity and charity were the most beloved things to him.

His happiness and joy in giving something away was more than that felt by those who would accept his gifts. He was the most generous person, and his generosity was like the blowing wind.

If a person in need would approach him, he would always prefer that person to himself. This was sometimes in the form of food, and was sometimes in the form of clothing.

He would have variety in terms of how he would give things away:

Sometimes, he would give it as a small gift, sometimes as charity, and sometimes as a large gift.


He would sometimes buy something from someone then give him back the product itself that he had just paid for, such as what he did with the camel he bought from Jabir.

Sometimes, he would take a loan and then pay back more than he borrowed, or would give back something better or more plentiful than he borrowed.

Sometimes, he would buy something and pay more than its value for it.

He would accept a gift and then repay it with a gift many times more valuable.

This was all done out of his generosity and desire to practice as many types of charity and good as possible.


His charity was in what he possessed, his personality, and his words. He would give whatever he had and command others to give charity and encourage them in this and call to it through his actions and words.

If he saw a stingy person, his mere personality would force that person into being generous and charitable. Whoever interacted with him and accompanied him and observed his lifestyle had no choice but to also be generous and freely giving.

His lifestyle was one of kindness, charity, and goodness. This is why he was the most relaxed of people and the purest and softest of them in heart...

['Zad al-Ma'ad'-Ibn al Qayyim(ra)]

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

Muslims killing Muslims? I am shocked! I bet you are, too.

May the peace and blessings be upon Him

The Prophet's (pbuh)Mercy for Women

Prophet Muhammad (saw) was also very kind and affectionate towards women. Women were treated quite badly in those times. The Noble Prophet (saw) gave them honor and dignity at par with men in the community. Umar (ra) reported, "We did not have much regard for women, while we were at Makkah, but they were better treated in Madinah. Allah's Messenger (saw) established women's rights through his sayings and commandments, which improved their position and status."

Men enjoyed the privilege of the company of Allah's Messenger most of the time while women did not get any time to listen to him or inquire about their problems. Therefore, women requested him to allocate one day for them for this purpose. The Prophet (saw) accepted their request and fixed a day for them. As women are usually of a tender and weak nature, he took special care of them and always treated them with kindness. As a result, women felt free to inquire about their problems without any fear or hesitation.

Once on a journey with the Noble Prophet (saw), Anjasha, an Abyssinian slave was walking ahead of the camels and was singing. Some of the wives of the Noble Prophet (saw) happened to be with him on that journey. While Anjasha was singing, the carriers began moving fast. At that, Prophet Muhammad (saw) said, "Anjasha, take care lest the fragile crystals (women) may break."

Asma bint Amees (ra) was one of those who had immigrated to Abyssinia in the early period of Islam. When during the expedition of Khaybar, while the Muslims were on their way back to Madinah, she also came with them. One day she came to see Hafsah when Umar (ra) was also there. On that occasion, Umar (ra) casually remarked that as they had immigrated before them they had greater claim to Allah's Messenger than others. Asma became angry and said, "Never!you people lived with Allah's Messenger who fed the hungry while we were away from home, living among strangers in Abyssinia who often maltreated us and we were in constant fear of our lives."

While this talk was going on, Allah's Messenger (saw) came and Asma said, "O Allah's Messenger, Umar (ra) has said this." Prophet Muhammad (saw) asked, "What did you reply?" She told the whole story, whereupon the Noble Prophet (saw) said, "Umar (ra) has no more right over me than you have. Umar (ra) and his companions immigrated only once, whereas you people immigrated twice."

When the report of this incident spread in Madinah, Abyssinian immigrants came running to Asma (ra) and listened to Allah's Messenger's words again and again. According to Asma's account, there was nothing more pleasing in the world to the ears of the Abyssinian immigrants than the words of the Prophet (saw).

Once many women relatives of Prophet Muhammad (saw) were sitting around him and talking loudly. When Umar (ra) came they all left, at which the Prophet laughed. Umar (ra) said, "O Allah's Messenger, may Allah keep you smiling. Why did you laugh?" The Prophet (saw) remarked that he was amazed at the behavior of those women, who, on hearing Umar (ra)'s voice, had all hidden themselves from him. Umar (ra), addressing them, said, "You fear me but do not fear Allah's Messenger." They all said, "You are a hot-tempered person in comparison to Allah's Messenger."

Once the Noble Prophet (saw) was sleeping with his face covered in the apartment of A'ishah (ra). It was the day of Eid and young girls were singing. Abu Bakr (ra) entered the house and asked the girls to stop. The Prophet (saw) said, "Let them sing, it is the day of Eid for them."

As a result of Prophet Muhammad's exemplary temperament and kind treatment, women used to ask him questions and the companions were often surprised at their boldness, but he never showed any kind of aversion or displeasure towards them. It is reported by many companions, including Abu Saeed, A'ishah, Anas, Ibn Abbas and Jabir (ra), that Allah's Messenger (saw) said, "Whoever has two or three daughters or sisters and treats them well, will go to Paradise."

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

When is this so called religion of peace going to start doing what they preach? In the meantime, keep killing yourselves, that will make it less for the modern civilizated people to exterminate. Also, they only get 72 grains of white rice, not virgins like some idiots think they will get.

I cannot imagine that someone could carry a bomb that powerful, let alone a concealed bomb.

Why aren't we Droning the hell out of Yemen terrorist hold outs and base camps. The U.S. already has the go ahead to attack anyone around the globe harboring or aiding in terrorist attacks based on the 911 premise threat to the U.S., what's the hold up.

Don't care how many die. Let them all those religious nuts die, the world would be a better place for it.

There is none amongst the believers who plants a tree, or sows a seed, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats thereof, but it is regarded as having given a charitable gift (for which there is great recompense).” (Al-Bukhari, III:513)

The idea of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as a pioneer of environmentalism will initially strike many as strange: indeed, the term “environment” and related concepts like “ecology”, “environmental awareness” and “sustainability”, are modern-day inventions, terms that were formulated in the face of the growing concerns about the contemporary state of the natural world around us.

And yet a closer reading of the hadith, the body of work that recounts significant events in the Prophet’s life, reveals that he was a staunch advocate of environmental protection. One could say he was an “environmentalist avant la lettre”, a pioneer in the domain of conservation, sustainable development and resource management, and one who constantly sought to maintain a harmonious balance between man and nature. From all accounts of his life and deeds, we read that the Prophet had a profound respect for fauna and flora, as well as an almost visceral connection to the four elements, earth, water, fire and air.

He was a strong proponent of the sustainable use and cultivation of land and water, proper treatment of animals, plants and birds, and the equal rights of users. In this context the modernity of the Prophet’s view of the environment and the concepts he introduced to his followers is particularly striking; certain passages of the hadith could easily be mistaken for discussions about contemporary environmental issues.

Three Principles

The Prophet’s environmental philosophy is first of all holistic: it assumes a fundamental link and interdependency between all natural elements and bases its teachings on the premise that if man abuses or exhausts one element, the natural world as a whole will suffer direct consequences. This belief is nowhere formulated in one concise phrase; it is rather an underlying principle that forms the foundation of all the Prophet’s actions and words, a life philosophy that defined him as a person.

The three most important principles of the Prophet’s philosophy of nature are based on the Quranic teachings and the concepts of tawhid (unity), khalifa (stewardship) and amana (trust).

Tawhid, the oneness of God, is a cornerstone of the Islamic faith. It recognizes the fact that there is one absolute Creator and that man is responsible to Him for all his actions:

“To God belongs all that is in the heavens and in the earth, for God encompasses everything.” (Surah Al Nisa’ 4:126)

The Prophet acknowledges that God’s knowledge and power covers everything. Therefore abusing one of his creations, whether it is a living being or a natural resource, is a sin. The Prophet considered all of God’s creations to be equal before God and he believed animals, but also land, forests and watercourses should have rights.

The concepts of khalifa, stewardship, and amana, trust, emerge from the principle of tawhid. The Quran explains that mankind holds a privileged position among God’s creations on earth: he is chosen as khalifa, “vice-regent” and carries the responsibility of caring for God’s earthly creations. Each individual is given this task and privilege in the form of God’s trust. But the Quran repeatedly warns believers against arrogance: they are no better than other creatures.

“No creature is there on earth nor a bird flying with its wings but they are nations like you;” (Surah Al Anam 6:38)
“Surely the creation of the heavens and the earth is greater than the creation of man; but most people know not.” (Surah Ghafir 40:57)

The Prophet believed that the universe and the creations in it – animals, plants, water, land – were not created for mankind. Man is allowed to use the resources but he can never own them. Thus while Islam allows land ownership, it has limitations: an owner can, for example, only own land if he uses it; once he ceases to use it, he has to part with his possession.

The Prophet recognized man’s responsibility to God but always maintained humility. Thus he said: “When doomsday comes, if someone has a palm shoot in his hand, he should plant it,” suggesting that even when all hope is lost for mankind, one should sustain nature’s growth. He believed that nature remains a good in itself, even if man does not benefit from it.

Similarly, the Prophet incited believers to share the earth’s resources. He said: “Muslims share alike in three things – water, herbage and fire,” and he considered it a sin to withhold water from the thirsty.

“No one can refuse surplus water without sinning against Allah and against man.” (Mishkat al Masabih)

The Prophet’s attitude towards sustainable use of land, conservation of water and the treatment of animals is a further illustration of the humility of his environmental philosophy.

Sustainable Use of Land

“The earth has been created for me as a mosque and as a means of purification.” (Al-Bukhari I:331)

With these words the Prophet emphasizes the sacred nature of earth or soil, not only as a pure entity but also as a purifying agent. This reverence towards soil is also demonstrated in the ritual of tayammum, or “drywudu” which permits the use of dust in the performance of ritual purification before prayer when water is not available.

The Prophet saw earth as subservient to man, but recognised that it should not be overexploited or abused, and that it had rights, like the trees and wildlife living on it. In order to protect land, forests and wildlife, the Prophet created inviolable zones known as hima and haram, in which resources were to be left untouched. Both are still in use today: haram areas are often drawn up around wells and water sources to protect the groundwater table from over-pumping. Hima applies particularly to wildlife and forestry and usually designates an area of land where grazing and woodcutting are restricted, or where certain animal species are protected.

The Prophet not only encouraged the sustainable use of fertile lands, he also told his followers of the benefits of making unused land productive: planting a tree, sowing a seed and irrigating dry land were all regarded as charitable deeds. “Whoever brings dead land to life, that is, cultivates wasteland, for him is a reward therein.” Thus any person who irrigates a plot of “dead”, or desert land becomes its rightful owner.

Conservation of Water

In the harsh desert environment where the Prophet lived, water was synonymous to life. Water was a gift from God, the source of all life on earth as is testified in the Quran:

“We made from water every living thing” (Surah Al Anbiya 21:30)

The Quran constantly reminds believers that they are but the guardians of God’s creation on earth and that they should never take this creation for granted:

“Consider the water which you drink. Was it you that brought it down from the rain cloud or We? If We had pleased, We could make it bitter” (Surah Al Waqi’ah 56:68-70)

Saving water and safeguarding its purity were two important issues for the Prophet: we have seen that his concern about the sustainable use of water led to the creation of haram zones in the vicinity of water sources. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) advocated thriftiness: even if water was abundant; he warned that wudu’ should not be performed more than three times in a row before each prayer; the Prophet himself (peace and blessings be upon him) washed each part only two or three times without ever going beyond three, even if water supplies were abundant. The theologian Al-Bukhari added:

“The men of science disapprove of exaggeration and also of exceeding the number of ablutions of the Prophet.”

The Prophet also warned against water pollution by forbidding urination in stagnant water.

The Treatment of Animals

“If anyone wrongfully kills even a sparrow, let alone anything greater, he will face God’s interrogation.” (Mishkat al Masabih)

These words reflect the great reverence, respect and love that the Prophet always showed towards animals. He believed that as part of God’s creation, animals should be treated with dignity, and the hadith contains a large collection of traditions, admonitions and stories about his relationship to animals. It shows that he had particular consideration for horses and camels: to him they were valiant companions during journey and battle, and he found great solace and wisdom in their presence as the following tradition reveals: “In the forehead of horses are tied up welfare and bliss until the Day of Resurrection.”

Even in the slaughter of animals, the Prophet showed great gentleness and sensitivity. While he did not practice vegetarianism, the hadiths clearly show that the Prophet was extremely sensitive to the suffering of animals, almost as though he shared their pain viscerally. Thus he recommends using sharp knives and a good method so that the animal can die a quick death with as little pain as possible. He also warned against slaughtering an animal in the presence of other animals, or letting the animal witness the sharpening of blades: to him that was equal to “slaughtering the animal twice” and he emphatically condemned such practices as “abominable”.

Conclusion

It is impossible to do justice to the full scope and significance of Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) environmental philosophy in this short article. His holistic view of nature and his understanding of man’s place within the natural world pioneered environmental awareness within the Muslim community.

Sadly, the harmony that the Prophet advocated between man and his environment has today all too often been lost. As we face the effects of pollution and overexploitation, desertification and water scarcity in some parts of the world and floods and violent storms elsewhere, it is perhaps time for the world community as a whole, Muslims, Christians and Jews, Hindus and Buddhists, atheists and agnostics, to take a leaf out of the Prophet’s book and address the current environmental crisis seriously and wisely.

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

May the Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him

Mercy for All

Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) treated everybody, friend or foe, with kindness and taught his companions to do likewise. It is reported by Abu Basra Ghifari that when he was a non-believer he came to Madinah and stayed as a guest of the Messenger of Allah. He drank milk from all his goats at night but the Prophet did not say a word. That night he and all his family slept hungry! The problem of hypocrites in Madinah was a great test for the Prophet and his companions, but he always treated them kindly and with great consideration. Abdullah Ibn Ubayy and his followers embraced Islam, but at heart they were unbelievers and never really accepted Islam.

Their behavior at the time of the Battle of Uhud and on many other occasions was damaging to the cause of Islam, but Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) always treated them with kindness. When Abdulllah Ibn Ubayy died, Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) gave his cloak for his shroud! Some Jews at that time were hostile to Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) and his mission, but he was always kind to them. Once he went to the house of a Jew to visit his sick son. He invited the boy to Islam but the boy looked towards his father for his permission. His father gave permission and the boy embraced Islam. Once when the funeral of a Jew was passing, the Prophet stood up as a mark of respect for the dead. Once a Jew complained to him that a Muslim had slapped him. He called that Muslim at once and reprimanded him. In fact, he treated all people with kindness under all circumstances and never showed any ill-will towards anyone or ill-treated anyone. Makhul (Radhia Allahu Anhu) reported Allah’s Messenger as saying, “The believers are gentle and kind like a pliant camel which, when guided lets itself be guided and when made to sit, even on stones, does so.” Mu’adh (Radhia Allahu Anhu) said, “The last injunction Allah’s Messenger gave him when he put his foot in the stirrup was. “Treat people well, O Mu’adh.”

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

Posted By: Al-Cordoby
Date Posted: 19 September 2009 at 2:38am

The Prophet's Modesty

Muhammad was a perfect model of modesty and humbleness. He never spoke loudly or in an unseemly manner. In the market, he always passed by the people quietly with a smile. Whenever he heard anything undesirable in an assembly, he did not say anything out of respect for the people, but the color of his face showed his feelings and the Companions became cautious. `A'ishah said that she never saw Allah's Messenger laughing so immoderately that she could see his molar teeth, for he only used to smile. ....

The Prophet lived a simple and modest life, both in Makkah as a trader and the Messenger of Allah, and in Madinah as the head of the state and Messenger of Allah. The change in his social status from that of a trader in Makkah to the head of the state in Madinah did not bring any change in his modest living. `Umar reported the Prophet as saying, "Do not exalt me as the Christians have exalted Jesus son of Mary. I am just His servant, so call me Allah's Servant and Messenger." ........

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I contacted (my?) con/sen/rep/pres/state&justice dept over a year ago
and asked
"why does the usa sell arms to repressive governments that turn those arms against their own people stampted
"with made in the usa" stampted on it so now those people hate henry(thats me)?
knock/knock--------------any body home?
once I called the senator and the "doubles as the coffee getter" that answered the phone said--"I didnt know that,here let me look it up on the net.
Then I got a (form) letter thanking me (??) and the weakest flag waiving "bla bla" I herd yet.
NOT one person has givin me an answer ($$$)

Whats wrong henry?? Why are you so upset?

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

`Abd Allah b. al-Hârith said: "I have never seen anyone more in the habit of smiling than Allah's Messenger." [Sunan al-Tirmidhî (3574)]

Even on the day he died, while lying in his sickbed, he did not neglect to smile. While Abû Bakr was getting the people lined up for prayer, the Prophet managed to stand up and move aside the curtain of his room. His face was like a page from a Qur'an manuscript. Yet he smiled at them, a bright full smile. [Sahîh al-Bukhârî (639) and Sahîh Muslim (636)]

The prophet (peace be upon him) saw a smile as a gift of joy an emotional gift, not a material one a gift whose substance is received by the heart.
Smiling is not only prescribed upon meeting someone. His advice to smile applies to every occasion where a smile can bring cheer, lighten the mood, or reduce the stress that people are feeling.

Jarîr b. `Abd Allah said: "Since the time I accepted Islam, the Prophet (peace be upon him) never once failed to notice me. Whenever he saw me, he would smile at me." [Sahîh al-Bukhârî (2809 & 5625) and Sahîh Muslim (4523)]

It was the Prophet's habit to smile. He even smiled at Fadâlah b. `Umayr and on that occasion Fadâlah had come with the intention to kill the Prophet (peace be upon him)!

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

The Holy Prophet’s(pbuh) Sense of Humor

It is well known that the Prophet Muhammad (may Peace and Blessings be upon him) was indeed the perfect man. He was a devoted seeker of Truth, a warner and exhorter, a person of good cheer and pleasantness, a brilliant leader, a courageous and yet reluctant warrior, a statesman par excellence and the teacher of teachers. He was a compassionate ruler and spiritual leader, but many do not know that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (may Peace and Blessings be upon him) had an extraordinary sense of humor!

Indeed, the Holy Prophet (may Peace and Blessings be upon him) would laugh and joke often. He enjoyed playing with children, especially his grandsons Hasan and Husayn (RA). The Prophet allowed his grandson to climb atop his back while he was in prostration as reported by al-Hafid Abu-Na’im (RA) on the Authority of Abu Bakr (RA) saying,

“The Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.) was leading us in prayer. Hasan, who was still a child, would come to him while he was in prostration, and sit on his back or sometimes on his neck. The Prophet (s.a.w.) would lift him tenderly. When the prayer was finished, they (the Muslims) asked him: ‘O Messenger of Allah! You are doing to this boy what you do not do to another person?’ ‘He is my basil,’ he replied.”"

The Prophet’s playfulness was also coupled with a beautiful sense of humor. He smiled often and would make jokes with members of his community. For example,

“Once, an old woman came up to him and asked for paradise. He said, “Old women do not enter the paradise.” The woman started crying. As she started leaving the room, the Prophet, showing his subtle sense of humor, stopped her and said, “Old women will become young before entering the heaven.” (Al Tirmidhi)

Another recording of the Prophet’s life describes him laughing and joking with another man. The hadith says,

“A man broke his fast (intentionally) during Ramadan. The Messenger of Allah (saws) commanded him to emancipate a slave or fast for two months, or feed sixty poor men. He said, “I cannot provide.” The Apostle said, “Sit down.” Thereafter, a huge basket of dates was brought to the Messenger of Allah. He said, “Take this and give it as charity.” He said, “O Messenger of Allah, there is no one poorer than I.” The Messenger of Allah thereupon laughed so that his canine teeth became visible and said, “Eat it yourself.”

The Prophet brought an uplifting spirit that penetrated the hearts of people. There is a story mentioned about the Prophet and a common merchant that tells us just a little about the spirit he carried,

“One of his companions was Zahir, who used to trade in metal objects. Once the Prophet was passing by the bazaar, he saw Zahir and playfully grabbed him from behind and said, “Will anyone buy this slave?” Zahir laughed and said, “O Messenger of Allah, whoever buys this slave will be in loss.” The Prophet smiled and said, “In Allah’s eyes, your value is high.”

On another occasion a man approached the Prophet (may Peace and Blessings be upon him) and asked him for a camel. The Prophet said, “I would give you a camel’s child”. The man said, “O Messenger of Allah. What will I do with a camel’s child?” The Prophet smiled and said, “Is there any camel who is not the progeny of a camel?”

In summary, the Holy Prophet, the perfect man (may Peace and Blessings be upon him) was an image of admiration. He was clear and resolute in matters of importance and obtained the highest character as the Qur’an tells us,

“Verily you are of a high and nobel character.” (68:004)

But he also was a dear friend and beloved companion. His sense of humor brought warmth and love to those who were around him. He never passed someone without a smile and his high achievement of good manners have become the example and traditions of Muslims the world over. This is the Prophet Muhammad (may Peace and Blessings be upon him) and his tradition of good humor.

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

Let me guess. Obama will blame this on Bush, right?

CIA payback for the USS Cole. IROTFLMAO. Notice there was NO American injuries or deaths. Good job.

Do not have to be a Christian, could be a Mormon.

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

The Prophet's(pbuh) lessons in Selflessness (Al 'eethar)

Al-’eethar (selflessness: giving preference to others over yourself and considering their happiness and welfare before your own). It is amazing that some Islamic ethics have vanished and become unknown although Islam calls for them and the Messenger (PBUH) propagated such ethics, applied them and practiced them himself.

It is also amazing that there is no exact equivalent for the word “al-’eethar” in any other language like English or French. This is not the case of the word “al-’eethar” only, but also of many other Islamic ethics. The word “Al-haya”, for example, is translated as shyness in English, which does not entirely satisfy the broad sense of the word in Arabic as we have already seen in the lecture of Al-Haia’a. The same can be said about the word “Al-tawadu”, which is translated as humbleness in English; the translation of this word means humility only rather than Al-tawadu with its broad sense. This also applies to the word “al-’eethar”.

Al-’eethar means giving preference to others over yourself and considering their happiness and welfare before your own. That is to say, to relinquish some of the pleasures of life to others; they enjoy them and you lose them. When we say that a person has given preference to another one over himself, it means that he preferred this person to himself for the sake of the reward of the hereafter.

Examples from the life of the Prophet(pbuh)

In a severe winter's night in Al-Madinah, a woman of the Ansar (The Muslims of Madinah who sponsored and defended the Call to Islam) brought a woven velvet cloak to the Prophet (PBUH). The Prophet (PBUH) took it, as he was in need of it to protect himself from the severe cold. Then, the Prophet (PBUH) came out wearing it for the first time, just as you would buy a new suit and wear it for the first time. One of the Companions from the Ansar looked at him and said, “How nice it is! O Messenger of Allah, give it to me”. What would your reaction be if you were in the place of the Prophet? The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Yes” and gave it to him on the spot. Peace be upon you, O Messenger of Allah. Do you realize the meaning of al-’eethar now? The Companions became angry with the Ansari and told him, “the Prophet is in need of it!” The man replied, “I am in need of it more than he is. I want to make it my shroud when I die”.

Here is another example of Al-’eethar:

Twenty three years after the mission of the Prophet (PBUH) had started, Makkah and Khaibar were opened (to Islam) and booty was gained. During this period of the mission, the Prophet and the Companions were suffering hardships and poverty to the extent that the Prophet (PBUH) used to fasten two stones against his stomach out of hunger. After Allah had granted Muslims victory, the Prophet's share of booty was a number of sheep enough to cover the space between two mountains. Imagine! Such a huge number of sheep became the possession of a poor man who had experienced poverty for such a long time. However, the Prophet (PBUH) sought the reward of the hereafter. An Arabian came to the Prophet and looked at the booty. The Prophet asked him, “Do you like it?” The Arabian answered, “Yes.” The Prophet said, “It is yours.” The Arabian wondered, “O Muhammad! Are you serious? The Prophet said, “Yes, take it if you wish”. Do you imagine to what extent one can prefer others to himself? The Arabian ran to the sheep and looking all around him took them all. Then he returned to his people, saying, “Embrace Islam. I have just been with the best man that ever has been. Muhammad gives with the generosity of a person who has no fear of poverty”. The narrator said that the Prophet never retained anything he owned from anyone who asked for it.

A man came to the Prophet (PBUH) and told him that he had nothing to eat. The Prophet sent a messenger to ask his wives if they had food. However, when they were asked, each replied, “No, by Allah I have nothing except water.” The Prophet stood and called his Companions, “Who will entertain this man as a guest?” An Ansari said, “I will, O Messenger of Allah.” Afterwards, the man took the guest and went quickly to his wife and asked her, “Do you have food?” She replied, “We have nothing except the food of my children” - that is to say, the remaining food that could only suffice their children. Then, he told her, “Make your children forget the food, put them to sleep if they ask for supper, and turn the lamp off when the guest comes so that he would think that we are eating and would eat like us.”

Do you see al-’eethar? Nowadays, we see two or three young persons traveling together, each hiding his food in his pocket. They do not eat together as the companions used to, and as the Prophet told us to.

When the guest came, she made her children sleep and turned the lamp off. Then, both of them pretended to be eating while the guest ate until he became full. When they went to pray the dawn prayer, the Prophet (PBUH) said to them, “Tonight Allah wondered at your action”- that is to say, Allah has been pleased with what you have done to your guest this night. Then, Allah revealed what can be translated as “and give them (emigrants) preference over themselves even though they were in need of that” (TMQ 59:9). It means that they prefer others even though they were in toiling, hunger, poverty or need.

They gave preference to their guest although they had nothing. We miss this ethic; we do not hear of it anymore nowadays. Have you ever considered giving preference to anyone over yourself by giving him your new suit for example? Our motto should be the following hadith; the Prophet (PBUH) said, “None of you will have faith till he wishes for his brother what he likes for himself.”This is the motto of al-’eethar. That is to say your faith will be complete only when you wish for your brother what you wish for yourself.

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

The Prophet Muhammad's(pbuh) love of knowledge

One of the distinctive features of Islam is its great emphasis on learning and seeking knowledge. Noble Qur'an and the Islamic Tradition (Sunnah) invite Muslims to seek and acquire knowledge and wisdom and to hold men of knowledge in high esteem. Prophet Muhammad (saw) ordered Muslims to be active in their search for learning, crossing oceans and continents if necessary. "Seek knowledge even in China" he said. The first few verses of Noble Qur'an that were revealed to our Prophet Muhammad (saw) mention the importance of reading, pen, and teaching for human beings. Hence, it is a beautiful prayer for every Muslim to ask always: "O my Lord! Increase me in knowledge." (Noble Qur'an, 20:114)

The only limit set to the acquisition of knowledge in Islam is that Muslims should seek useful knowledge. Our great Prophet Muhammad (saw) is reported as having said: "My Lord, save me from the useless knowledge." Any knowledge helping man in performing his God assigned role in this world is useful, other than that is considered useless knowledge.

The mosque of Medinah (Masjid-E-Nabawi) was not only a place of worship. The believers assembled here to learn. When Prophet Muhammad (saw) was present they heard his words of wisdom, his elucidation on the verses of Noble Qur'an and benefited from his counsel.

And when he was not present, other faithful companions taught what they had heard from Prophet Muhammad (saw).

Once our Prophet Muhammad (saw) entered the Mosque before the prayer time. He found two groups in the Mosque. One group was busy with its own act of worship; some were reading Noble Qur'an while the others were supplicating. The other group was in a corner busy learning. They learnt how to read and write and discussed the teachings of Islam and their application to their daily lives. Looking at both, Prophet Muhammad (saw) said:

"They are both engaged in useful pursuits. But I am a teacher. I shall join the group assembled to learn."

So he (saw) sat with the group of students.

Prophet Muhammad (saw) said: The virtue of knowledge is more beloved with Allah (SWT) than the virtue of worship.

-

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)as a leader

Prophet Muhammad’s unique communication and leadership style led to the spread of Islam, not only within Arabia but also outside to the north, south, east, west and southwest ofArabia . As a leader during wartime or as a leader during peacetime,Prophet Muhammad accomplished his goals in delivering the message of Islam

Prophet Muhammad communicative values of liberty, justice, modesty, and politeness were matched with practical deeds. The people saw this action of his and identified with. Prophet Muhammad' skills as manifested in his speeches demonstrated to the eyes of all humankind that he was indeed a great leader worthy of note. His skillful use of rhetoric demonstrated his commitment for meaningful competent communication for humankind in general. His speeches demonstrated that he sought to see all humankind from the lens of kindness, modesty, moderation, justice, liberty, gentility, generosity and love.

Regardless of religion and political affiliation, Prophet Muhammad use Islam as a channel to preach kindness. . By indicating to his wife Aisha that she should love the poor, it was an indirect way to teach all humankind to share love and kindness regardless of a person’s economic background. This same implication in the speeches of the Prophet can be discerned in his notion of modesty.

The world today is far from modest. Political factions and all sorts of social and economic discrimination have segmented the human race. People now think more in terms of class. Modesty is exclusive to ‘members of the club’. If you do not belong you can neither be heard nor seen. Prophet Muhammad speeches on the need for modest behavior and his exemplary behavior have a significant meaning to our lives. When he said that every religion must have some kind of meaningful character, he laid emphasis on the fact that Islam was a modest religion.

On the other hand, he was calling on all Islamic believers to question their conscience whether by following the belief system of Islam, they were practicing its basic tenets of modesty. He who is not has to examine his conscience and choose the rightful path and not be a hypocrite. This is how significant Mohammad’s message is to the world of today. This is what he intended to achieve in his message. Since modesty is akin to moderation, the Prophet’s communication themes also laid emphasis on it.

His speech about abstaining from extremism in the practice of Islam has a greater significance to our world of today. His intended his message about religious extremism to be upheld through out the lifespan of humankind. He was so emphatic about this issue because he believed that by practicing extreme Islamic rituals or ideals, the person or persons doing so would be following something else than Islam and that kind of attitude could send a different signal to his enemies. And the only way to show to potential followers of Islam that by practicing extreme Islam, they were not true followers of Allah, he said: “ Those people who went to extremes( in practicing their religion) were destroyed.” ( This therefore, shows in no ambiguous terms that Prophet Muhammad condones extreme religious practices. )

The findings on the Prophet's values of moderation revealed that he placed a lot of weight on mannerism. Humankind has to match words with deeds. Believers were not to say one thing and do the other. When told by some of his followers that they will abstain from women and devote their entire energy to prayer, he responded by stating that he was married. This was like an indirect way to inform the speaker that there was no room for pretense. By choosing to abstain you open yourself to irresistible temptation. Getting married would therefore serve as the means to shun sin and other forms of temptation. This is certainly the landmark of difference between Muhammad and other spiritual and secular leaders of his time and today. To begin with, some other spiritual leaders remained unmarried and by deciding to do so created a pattern for their followers to follow suit. But experience has shown that most of these followers could not faithfully follow their religion without falling into the temptation of bodily pleasures. This could have been unwelcome by Muhammad. He foresaw this kind of contradiction and so taught by examples. It was like doing justice to natures calling. The Prophet was in essence advocating justice between sexes.

Muhammad suggested Justice for all humankind. Without justice to the weak, the poor, and the women, there could not be peace in the entire world. “….Whether it be against rich or poor…follow not the lust of your hearts, lest you swerve from doing justice.” (Qur’an, 4:135) This powerful statement has become apocalyptic. Humankind today have all prone to worshipping themselves and yielding to mundane pleasures of money and women and as such have resorted to indulging in all forms of corruption at the detriment of justice. The poor and the weak remain poorer and weaker while the powerful -those with influence and affluence have hijacked the world and set wrongful precedence of monetary and political gains. Allah tolerates only justice in his kingdom. He intended this message for all and not only to Arabs.

General human condition, the world over was the main preoccupation in the speeches of Prophet Muhammad. When he spoke lengthily about truthfulness, he was indirectly sending the strong message of truth as the pillar of strong faith in any religious person. The society that we live today is constantly turning its back on truth and replacing it with untruth or multiple truths to justify falsehoods. Humankind has sort of fashion a way to go around truth and honesty by resorting legitimizing falsehood intended to achieve political, social, economic, cultural and spiritual gains. The Prophet’s message about truth serves as a waking call to our consciences about hell and Paradise .

The Prophet’s message of Islam was intended for the Arabs during the seventh century and to all humankind at all times thereafter. He took advantage of the peace treaty between himself and the Quraish tribe, his main enemy, and sent ambassadors to the world leaders of his time. He informed them about the message of Islam. Most of these leaders responded positively. He used Islam as an example to convince and influence other leaders of his time.

The Prophet Muhammad was supremely successful on both the religious and secular level. As a private person, he was a husband, father, friend and businessman; as a public figure, he was a leader, legislator, judge, statesman and general; as a Messenger of God, he was a law-giver, preacher, theologian, saint and mystic. Such a combination is unique in history.

There are sayings from the Prophet related to every activity that a person might encounter during the day or during the night. Islam is a way of life. By exemplifying these qualities that he preached to his people, the Prophet was in essence warning against all other rulers who were saying what they do not practice. He also laid the foundation stone for responsible leadership. A leader was not to be protected by the army and fierce dogs but by the loyalty given by his people. By shaking hands and taking children under his arms, the Prophet made himself human and approachable. This was a lesson that he wanted to teach to all other leaders in the world.

The farewell speech of the Prophet Muhammad was directed to all humankind at all times and for all generations. He laid down the foundation of morality, justice, equality, brotherhood, and accountability. He abolished economic exploitation and human enslavement. In his speeches on liberty, he preached against the institution of slavery. When he witnessed the slave beating episode as reported in Bukhari, The Prophet demonstrated one of the rare instance of humane leadership by letting Abu Mas’ud Ansari, the accused in this instance that only Allah has ‘power and control over human beings’. This served as a powerful lesson to him awakening his conscience to the realization that indeed, he was doing something very wrong. The fact that he let go of the slave by referring to Muhammad that he let the slave go because of his intervention is to show the power of communicative skills of the Prophet. He did not speak harshly or threateningly, rather he used speech in such a subtle way as to prick the conscience of people. This is what most leaders do not do today. His life serves as the panacea for future leaders who want to rule spiritually or secularly.People all over the world are recognizing the power behind his messages and are slowly becoming aware of themselves. He demonstrated how political leadership can be fruitful.

In his political leadership communication, the Prophet’s demonstration of extreme self-control made his followers to love him and his enemies either to give up and join his religion or to fear him and stay away. There was no human being who had his life more scrutinized and documented than the Prophet Muhammad. His behavior toward his companions was perfect and towards his foes was fair. In essence, he was kind of educating them about governance.

In his educational communication, the Prophet used different approaches in dealing with different circumstances. Education and training are not merely the matter of correcting mistakes; they also involve teaching and showing the basic principles of the rules and the regulations and using various methods to establish these concepts firmly in peoples minds and hearts, by example, by exhorting them, by telling stories or by discussing incidents.

Even before his Prophet hood, he was known by “the trusted and the honest one”. By talking of values that are necessary to influence and inspire others, he provided a basis for understanding how he was able to accomplish so much during his brief Prophet-hood. Hundreds of books have been written for that purpose in most languages of the world. The Prophet taught exactly what the ancient Prophets had been teaching. The high and noble aim of preaching such a universal religion is to unite the nations of the world, establish peace, and eradicate all causes of conflict. Today the world is out of joint. People all over the world are searching for peace. The light of scientific knowledge is spreading. But it has signally failed to dispel clouds of hatred and hostility which spread darkness. Every now and then, plans for world peace are put forward. But they prove all to be superficial. The most effective panacea for world peace was proclaimed by the Prophet Muhammad. He forcefully exhorted the people that they should cherish reverence for the Prophets of all nations, and live up to their revealed teachings. This style of speech communication was tried with unparalleled success in Arabia , where the warring tribes were cemented into brotherhood. Belief in the unity of God alone can bring about unity among nations. As this teaching is universal in character, the Prophet who gave it to the world, was rightly entitled "mercy for all people” (Bukhari).

The Prophet laid the foundation and the guidelines for establishing peace and justice among the nations. If any teachings can put an end to conflicts and strengthen the bonds of human brotherhood in these times of crisis, it is the Prophet's teachings.

The Prophet Muhammad’s life and teaching center on the values he espoused in his public communication. His teachings focus on values identified by Burns (1978) who defines a transformational leader and in addition focus on extraordinary values which are gleaned from a textual analysis of his public communication. Bass (1985) explained that transformational leaders “inspire followers to transcend their own self-interests for the good of the group or organization” and that “followers become motivated to expend great effort than would normally be expected” (p. 18) when they are adequately inspired. Muhammad did inspire, and continues today to inspire followers to follow his teachings and public communication and his directives.

Muhammad demonstrated character values of gentleness, good character, humility, kindness, modesty, moderation, politeness, and truthfulness. He suggested community values of charity, forgiveness, hospitality, and mercy. The values he suggested are an excellent complement to the transformational leadership values of liberty, justice, equality, and collective well-being. Muhammad’s interactions with all people, both in spiritual and secular dealings, impressed upon them the importance of his character and values. Because of his strong values, he was believable and trustworthy, encouraging all to follow the will of Allah.

The Prophet was successful in his leadership because he suggested and lived the values important to leadership. His public communication was successful because he provided a living example of his suggestions within his own interactions with family, believers, and non-believers. His daily interactions as husband, father, friend, businessman, public figure, and messenger of God all reinforced his leadership ability and values orientation. The importance of Muhammad’s public communication through history is unquestioned (Hart, 1992).

The life of the Prophet Muhammad was like an open book, especially when he started to deliver the message of Islam. Prophet Muhammad practiced what he preached. The Prophet’s wife Aisha was asked about his moral character. She responded that his morals were based on the Qur’an. It is clear that his extraordinary values, which allowed him to accomplish so much, too were based on the teachings of the Qur’an and the words and will of God.Prophet Muhammad was a farsighted visionary leader. The Hudaybia treaty showed the Prophet’s wisdom in accepting some terms in the treaty that a companion of the Prophet like Omar ibn al Khatab refused. It was proven later on that these terms that the Prophet accepted and Omar refused were for the benefit of Islam. Prophet Muhammad intended for his message of Islam to be global. As soon as he signed the Hudaybia with Quraish, he sent ambassadors to invite kings and states around the Arabia to Islam. The Prophet said “each Prophet used to be sent to his people in particular, while I was sent to all humankind, and Allah, glory to him, the exalted said in the noble Qur’an: “say: humankind! Lo! I am the messenger of Allah to you all, (the messenger) of Him to whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth” (Qur’an, 7:158).

Prophet Muhammad possessed not only transformational leadership values but that he also possessed extraordinary values which made him a unique leader in the history of humankind. The transformational leadership values Prophet Muhammad exemplified are liberty, justice, equality, and collective well being. His public communication also demonstrated the values he espoused. He preached of family values that include affection and kindness for children, children honoring their parents, the importance of educating the children, financial security for wives after the husband’s death, husbands treating their wives with kindness and gentleness, respecting even foster parents, brothers, and sisters, and the importance of loving and honoring relatives. The Prophet Muhammad’s speeches focused also on character values that include gentleness, humility, kindness, moderation, modesty, politeness, and truthfulness. His public communication included the admonition of community values that included charity, forgiveness, hospitality, and mercy.

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

Whenever his followers reaped their first harvest, they brought their fresh fruits to the Prophet peace be upon him as a token of gift. Then he would distribute them among those who sat around him. One morning, a poor man brought a single fruit from his small farm and gave it to the Prophet (pbuh).

He accepted the gift, tasted it and then went on eating it alone while the companions watched. One of those present meekly said:

O Prophet of Allah, you have over looked the right of those who watch while you eat?

The Prophet (pbuh) smiled and waited till the man who had brought the fruit had gone.

He then said:

"I tasted the fruit and it was not yet ripe. Had I allowed you to have some of it, someone would have definitely shown his distaste, thus disappointing the poor man who had brought the gift."

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

Posted By: a well wisher
Date Posted: 25 September 2009 at 6:17pm

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

He regarded the neighbours as brothers and sisters because of their closeness and living in the same vicinity. He once smelt the aroma of the soup cooked by his wife. He told her to give some of it to the neighbours who also smelt it. He said it was not right for a Muslim to sleep with a full stomach after having had a good meal but let his neighbour starve. He laid the foundation for a friendly relation and cooperation among neighbours exemplifying that living as a neighbour one has one’s right and responsibility.

In regard to the rights of a neighbour, the Prophet(pbuh) said:

"Help him if he asks your help; give him relief if he seeks your relief; show him concern if he is distressed and when he is ill; attend his funeral if he dies; congratulate him If he meets any good; sympathize with him if any calamity befalls him; do not block his air by raising your building without his permission and do not harass him."

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

Dude...no one is reading your posts...

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

The Prophet (pbuh) and You

A quick glimpse at our state could easily lead to despair and hopelessness. In fact, many of us are beleaguered at the dark waves of sadness and plight that have swept the Muslim nation away from its high goals and lofty morals. The Prophetic era seems light years away, and many of us are only left to imagine how things must have been. Don't despair! For indeed, at this very moment there exists between you and Allah's beloved (sa) a relationship that can only be called special.

"The Prophet is closer to the believers than their selves "

"Whoever sends blessing upon me, Allah will send ten blessing upon him."

Allah (swt) says:

"Indeed, Allah favored the believers when He sent a Messenger from amongst themselves."

"Don't be sad nor fear."

It is easy, especially during these days, to become depressed and saddened by the condition of Muslims the world over. However, let us take sometime and reflect upon what it means to be a follower of the Prophet (sa). In the Qur'an Allah (swt) calls upon the Prophet (sa) in many different places:

"O Prophet."

"O Messenger"

“O you wrapped in your mantle."

"O covered one."

However, if you look carefully you'll never find:

"O Muhammad (sa)."

But, if you look at the case of the other Messengers and Prophets of Allah you'll find something remarkable:

"And We said, 'O Adam.

"Oh Dawood."

One may ask, why has Allah (swt) addressed the other Prophets and Messengers directly but not the Prophet (sa)? The great Mufasir Muhamad Al-Ameen Shinqiti (ra) stated that Allah (swt) did this to illustrate the status of the Prophet (sa) . Now imagine how lucky you are to be from the followers of the Prophet (sa)! What does it mean to be from His (sa) nation? And how lucky you are to say: "And I bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is the Messenger and Slave of Allah."

Glad tidings! Glad tidings! Glad tidings!

Sometimes we feel far from the Prophetic age and this is a great cause for sadness. It is disheartening to see many Muslims giving up, turning tail and drowning in depression and pessimism. However, our relation with the Prophet (sa) is alive and well. In fact, we, in many ways, are lucky for our relation with the Prophet (sa) can only be called special .

The Prophet (sa) said: "Glad tidings for the one who saw me (sa) and believed in me. And glad tidings to the one who didn't see me, yet believed in me." However, in other narrations of the same hadith we find that our beloved (sa) said: "Glad tidings for the one who saw me (sa) and believed in me. And glad tidings to the one who didn't see me, yet believed in me. And glad tidings to the one who didn't see me, yet believed in me. And glad tidings to the one who didn't see me, yet believed in me."

It is well known amongst the scholars that the word, "Tuba" glad tidings means Paradise. In addition, it is well known that the Prophet (sa) would repeat things in order to show their importance.

I wish I could see our brothers

Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah (sa) came to a graveyard and said, 'Peace be upon you, abode of a believing people. Allah willing, we will join you. I wish that we could see our brothers.' They said, 'Are we not your brothers, Messenger of Allah?' He said, 'You are my Companions. My brothers are those who have not yet come.' They said, 'How can you know someone of your community who has not yet come, Messenger of Allah?' He said, 'Do you not think that if a man had horses with white blazes which were among dark black horses, that he would recognize his horses?' They said, 'Yes indeed. Messenger of Allah.' He said, 'They will come with white blazes from wudu' and I will precede them to the Basin.'"

When you read this hadith you should experience a great sense of happiness and humility. The Prophet (sa) mentioned you to his companions and referred to you as his brothers. Take a few moments, make wudu, and ponder on its implications.

You'll be with those you love

Sometimes I close my eyes and ask myself: "What it would be like to look at the face of the Prophet (sa), to walk with him (sa), to talk with him (sa) and to face his eyes, indeed pearls, and witness the intense glow of his countenance as it penetrates the deep dark caverns of my sin infested soul; illuminating it, bringing it warmth and comfort? Can you imagine the Prophet's radiant face? Can you imagine the pleasure in seeing it? Can you imagine the glow from it?

Jabir bin Samurah (ra) said, "I saw him one night during a full moon. I looked at him. He was dressed in a red garment. I compared him with the moon and found that - for me - he was brighter than the moon."

Ar-Rabi' bint Muawwidh (ra) said: "Had you seen him, you would have felt that the sun was shining."

Longing to be with the Prophet (sa) is from one of the greatest signs of Faith - our faith .

Once a companion came to the Prophet (sa) and stated that when he left the lessons of the Prophet (sa) and sat in his home he would began to cry. The Prophet (sa) inquired for what reason? The Companion (ra) said, "I realize that I'm with you now. But when I die and if I enter the Paradise, then I will not be with you because of your lofty status. Thus, I will be away from you and am overtaken by tears at the thought." The Prophet (sa) turned to him and said, "A person will be with those he loved."

Bilal (ra) upon his death bed was overcome by tears. When asked if he was crying out of grief he stated, "Tomorrow! Tomorrow I shall meet Muhammad (sa) and his companions."

Our mother Aisha (ra) states: "When Abu Bakr was informed that he would be migrating with the Prophet (sa) to Medina he began to cry." She adds, "It was the first time I'd ever seen someone cry out of happiness."

Once a man came to the Prophet (sa) and asked him about a person who loves others, but for some reason could never see them. The Prophet (sa) responded, "A person will be with whom he loves."

Thus, although we are far away from the Prophet's (sa) time. We are still close to him (sa) by our love. Indeed, our love for him (sa) burns in the depths of our hearts creating a great anxiousness to see Him.

Excercising Your Relationship With The Prophet (Sa)

1. Loving the Prophet:

Know, may Allah bless you, that your sincere love for the Prophet (sa) will be a means of being with him (sa) at his fount and drinking from his (sa) noble hands. "A person will be with whom he loves." Anas bin Malik (ra) commented on this hadith by saying: "After Islam there is nothing I hold dearer then this. For I love the Prophet (sa)! I love Abu Bakr and Umar! And a person will be with who he loves!"

2. Learn his (sa) deen:

We should, from this day forward, try our best to learn and practice a new Sunnah every month. As families we can make competitions between ourselves; seeing who acted on the Sunnah the most each month. As Imam Ahmed said, "For every Sunnah practiced an innovation is destroyed."

3. Sending Salwaat:

We should send praises upon the Prophet and ask Allah's prayers for him. This is one of the keys to opening this special relationship. Every time you send salwaat upon the Prophet the following happen:

-Your salams are presented to Him (sa) and he responds to you

-Allah will send ten blessings upon you

-Allah will remove ten of your sins

-Allah will raise your station ten fold

Thus, by sending salawat upon the Prophet (sa), you enact that special relationship. Send salwat upon him now and ponder its implications.

3. Latching on to his (sa) Sirah:

Start a sirah circle in one's home, local MSA, or Masjid. It is said that one talks about what the heart covets. Thus, studying the life of the Prophet (sa) is a sign of one's true love for him. One of the best books available is Muhammad Man and Messenger by Adil Salahi.

4. Reflect on his (sa) countenance:

We should reflect on the face of the Prophet (sa). If he were to see the division amongst us that is tearing us apart, would he smile? Let us practice mercy on issues where differences are valid and avoid harsh words and work on what we agree according to our sacred law.

5. Tauba:

Repent to Allah and renew our commitment to His (swt) faith and our following of the Prophet (sa).

6. Reflect:

We should use these days to strengthen our will; removing depression and anxiety that we have for the Ummah. We should reflect on our lofty status and look towards working at improving our condition on all levels.

I ask Allah to bless all of you and join us with the Prophet (sa) at his fount.

Imam Suhaib D. Webb

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

Posted By: a well wisher
Date Posted: 02 October 2009 at 7:01pm

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

Prophet Muhammad's(pbuh) Gentleness

Aisha(ra) stated that, ‘The Prophet (pbuh) never used foul language and never entertained people with obscene jokes. He was well behaved when he entered the market places. His habit was not to repel evil with mutual evil. He was forgiving and could grant pardon.' (Tirmidhi)

Husain(ra) the grandson of the Prophet(pbuh) asked his father, Ali(ra) , about the Prophet's(pbuh) conduct. Ali(ra) replied, 'He was always cheerful, gentle and mild. There was no rigidity or coarseness in his conduct. He was neither a faultfinder nor a boisterous person and he steered away from any kind of futile engagement.' (Tabarani)

The Prophet(pbuh) encouraged the achievers and never deprived anybody of hope. He refrained from boasting, hoarding wealth and involvement in matters that did not concern him as well as from using sharp rebukes and exposing people with the intention to disgrace and defame. (Tirmidhi)

While speaking, he addressed matters constructively with the objective of good for all. His audience remained motionless as they gave him their undivided attention. Birds could find a safe place to sit on their heads during these sessions (being so preoccupied in his comments). None of his listeners would interrupt while he spoke. They waited until he completed his discussion and the person who then requested to participate was allowed to address the group first, followed by the second and the third and so on. Participants were treated with respect - each was allowed to finish his statement without objection or interference - and everybody would listen to him attentively. Sometimes visitors to Madina were harsh as they questioned him about Islam, but he was always polite and tolerant towards them. When a person spoke in his company, he would not object unless the person spoke incorrectly, and then he would either stop the speaker or stand up and leave the conversation. (Tirmidhi)

The Prophet(pbuh) had a good sense of humour and showed excitement for things that interested his Companions. With regards to the needy, he encouraged those less needy to support them. He objected to being praised excessively and tolerated it only as a way of being shown thanks for his kindness. (Tirmidhi)

Prophet Muhammad(pbuh) smiled so spontaneously that each one of the Companions, as they gathered around him during their visits to his house, thought himself to be the favorite Companion. Jareer Ibn Abdullah(ra) said, 'I have not seen the Prophet (pbuh), since I embraced Islam, without a smile on his face. I saw him smiling when he could not see me and he was smiling in my presence.' ( -Bukhari )

Abdullaah Ibn Haarith(ra) said, 'I never came across a person who smiled as much as the Prophet(pbuh). The Prophet regarded smiling with a brother as an act of charity. (Tirmidhi)

Anas Ibn Maalik(ra) , who served the Prophet(pbuh) for ten years in his house said, "He would listen carefully and attentively to questions or requests. He shifted his focus only after the person in need directed it away or the person left his presence. He held on to the hand that greeted him and waited for the other person to withdraw first. He shook the hand of anybody who extended it." (Abu Nu'aim)

Aisha(ra) related that at receiving news of the wickedness of an individual, the Prophet would ask, 'Why do people transmit such tales?' without accusing the messenger himself. (Tirmidhi)

Aisha(ra) said that the Prophet(pbuh) welcomed gifts offered to him. He rewarded this beautiful gesture by offering a gift in return. ( - Bukhari )

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

When a Muslim hears Muhammad’s name mentioned they ask God to send blessings upon him. Prophet Muhammad was a man, a human being just like any other man, but it is his love for humanity that sets him apart. Muslims love Prophet Muhammad, but it is his love for us, that makes him a man like no other. He longed for Paradise not only for himself but also for all of us. He wept tears not for himself but for his Ummah, and for humanity. He was often heard to cry “O God, my Ummah, my Ummah”.

Muslims also believe in the same Prophets mentioned in Jewish and Christian traditions, including Noah, Moses, Abraham and Jesus, and they believe that all prophets came with the same message – to worship God alone, without partners, sons or daughters. There is a difference, however, between all other prophets and Prophet Muhammad. Before Muhammad, prophets were sent to particular people in particular places and periods. Muhammad however, is the final Prophet and his message is for all of humankind.

God tells us in Quran that He did not send Prophet Muhammad except as a mercy for humankind.

“And we have sent you O Muhammad, not but as a mercy for humankind and all that exists.” (Quran 21:107)

God did not say Muhammad was sent to the people of Arabia, or to men, or to the people of the 7^th century. He made it clear that Prophet Muhammad was a prophet like no other, one whose message would spread far and wide and be applicable in all places for all times. Muslims love him, respect him and follow him. They hold him in such regard that for many it is emotionally painful to see or hear their beloved mentor ridiculed or disrespected.

Throughout history and around the world non-Muslims have shown great respect and honour to Prophet Muhammad and he is considered influential in both religious and secular matters. Mahatma Ghandi described him as scrupulous about pledges, intense in his devotion to his friends and followers, intrepid, fearless, and with absolute trust in God and in his own mission. Prophet Muhammad taught Islam as a way of life, founded an empire, laid down a moral code and instituted a code of law focusing on respect, tolerance and justice...

What is it about Prophet Muhammad that inspires such devotion? Is it his gentle and loving nature, his kindness and generosity or is it his ability to empathise with all of humanity? Muhammad was a selfless man who devoted the last 23 years of his life to teaching his companions and followers how to worship God and how to respect humanity. Prophet Muhammad was acutely aware of just how much responsibility had been thrust upon him by God. He was careful to teach the message just as God had prescribed and warned his followers not to adulate him the way Jesus, son of Mary was praised...

Muslims do not worship Prophet Muhammad; they understand that he is only a man. However, he is a man worthy of our utmost respect and love. Prophet Muhammad, may God praise him, loved humanity so much that he would weep out of fear for them. He loved his Ummah with such deep and profound devotion that God remarked on the depth of his love for us in Quran.

“Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad) from amongst yourselves. It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He (Muhammad) is anxious over you (to be rightly guided, to repent to God, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins, in order that you may enter Paradise and be saved from the punishment of the Hell-fire), for the believers he is full of pity, kind, and merciful.” (Quran 9:128)

Prophet Muhammad taught us to love God and to obey Him. He taught us to be kind to each other, to respect our elders, and care for our children. He taught us that it was better to give than to receive and that each human life is worthy of respect and dignity. He taught us to love for our brothers and sisters what we love for ourselves. Prophet Muhammad taught us that families and communities are essential, and he pointed out that individual rights although important are not more important than a stable, moral society. Prophet Muhammad taught us that men and women are equal in the sight of God and that no one person is better then another except in respect to his or her piety and devotion to God.

Who is Prophet Muhammad? Quite simply he is the man who will stand before God on the day of Requital and beg God to have mercy on us. He will intercede for us. Muslims love him because he is the slave and messenger of God, he is a mercy to humankind and his gentleness and devotion to humanity is unprecedented.

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

Posted By: a well wisher
Date Posted: 04 October 2009 at 6:00pm

May the Blessings and Peace of Allah be upon him

Prophet Muhammad's (pbuh)Quest for Social peace

The Qur'an emphasizes peace and reconciliation as basic to all social and even international relations. As mentioned in the Qur'an, Paradise, which is the reward for the pious, is a place of serenity. One of the ninety-nine names of God is Salaam, which means peace.

In Islam, the right to life is an absolute value: He who kills a soul unless it be (in legal punishment) for murder or for causing disorder and corruption on the earth will be as if he had killed all humankind; and he who saves a life will be as if he had saved the lives of all humankind (Qur'an 5:32).

When the Messenger of God (peace be upon him) explained Islam's potential to contribute to safety and peace in society, he specified one goal in his time as the following: "A rider will travel from Sana'a (a city in Yemen) to Hadhramaut (a region in the southwest of the Arabian peninsula) fearing none but God, or a wolf as regards his sheep."

If we consider the troubles due to the extreme violence Muslims were exposed to both in the Medinan and Meccan periods, we can understand how meaningful was this message expressed by the Prophet. It does not include any desire for revenge against any person or any group; instead, it only expresses an ardent desire for a violence-free world for all.

The Prophet commanded us to maintain social solidarity and cooperation, to open our hearts to our fellows, and to help one another at all times. He said, "Do not cut relations between each other! Do not turn your backs on each other! Do not grow hatred between each other! O God's servants! Become brothers and sisters!"

Peace, reform, and virtuous deeds

The Arabic terms islah (reform) and sulh (peace) are from the same root. Islah means one's reach of peace and serenity while leaving conflicts and deviations; in other words, it refers to leaving confusion by settling a dispute between two people or two sides.

The Seerah of the Prophet (pbuh) teaches us that good deeds are actions that are beneficial for people and society, as well as actions that are taken to establish peace and serenity. This concept not only includes offering worship and spending in a good cause but also smiling, behaving warmly to others, establishing friendships, pleasing people by kind words, exchanging greetings, having warm conversation, and controlling bad feelings such as pride, arrogance, anger, envy, animosity, hypocrisy, rancor, and burning ambition. Thus, essentially, virtuous deeds are acts that purify humankind of aggression and bring them to peace.

In the Qur'an, it is recommended to cease disagreements by peace and not to commence further disputes, fights, confusion, and discord; in addition, people are asked to take a balanced approach and seek justice (Qur'an, 8:1; 49:9–10). It is forbidden to spoil peace and tranquility by corruption; there are penalties for those who do.It is possible to apply the verse, Peace is better (Qur'an, 4:128) which was specifically revealed to eradicate disagreements between couples, to all kinds of human relations. Islam recommends a united and mutually helpful society, and this vision does not only refer to the level of nation, but includes international relations, too. In this sense, from an Islamic perspective, international law should take the establishment of peace as a foundation.

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La ilaha ill-Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah

Sad, but inevitable. Living in the 8th century always was tough....it's like watching an ant farm or bee colony. Maybe we could send Sean Penn over to check it out for us....

Those followers of the Crescent Moon god sure know how to throw a parade

Thank goodness for the scroll wheel. This poon-tang whada-ya-callit is a freak.