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Welcome to the Halaqa blog. May Allah ﷻ increase us with knowledge, amin.
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The Word “Palestine” in Hebrew and its Usage in Judaic Texts
﷽وصلى الله على سيدنا محمد وعلى آله وصحبه وسلم, ما بعد What is the word for Palestine in Hebrew? Does it show it up in Hebrew texts? Let’s take a brief look. Let’s use the Klein dictionary. It is described as: “A clear and concise work on the origins of the Hebrew words and their … Continue reading The Word “Palestine” in Hebrew and its Usage in Judaic Texts
Hanbali vs ‘Ashari Tafwidh – Selections from Hashiyah al-Muwaffaq ala Lum’ah al-Muwaffaq
﷽وصلى الله على سيدنا محمد وعلى آله وصحبه وسلم, ما بعد Here are some pictures I took from a recently published commentary on Hanbali aqida (book cover as well, if interested). These pages, 10-12, show the Hanbali position on tafwidh and where they (supposedly) disagree with the Ash’aris. This is easily refuted though because they … Continue reading Hanbali vs ‘Ashari Tafwidh – Selections from Hashiyah al-Muwaffaq ala Lum’ah al-Muwaffaq
Types of Hanafi Legal Rulings (Ahkam)
﷽وصلى الله على سيدنا محمد وعلى آله وصحبه وسلم, ما بعد The aḥkām in the context of fiqh are the legal rulings based on the usul al-fiqh of a madhhab. Each madhhab slightly differs in the way it breaks down, defines, and applies the rulings. Below, insha’Allah, I will briefly outline the different aḥkām of … Continue reading Types of Hanafi Legal Rulings (Ahkam)
Hanafi Position on Wiping over Socks and Footgear
﷽وصلى الله على سيدنا محمد وعلى آله وصحبه وسلم, ما بعد In Nur al-Idah we can find the conditions for wiping over socks in Hanafi fiqh: With regards to the question of wiping over footgear like boots and shoes, this has been answered in the following fatawa: https://islamqa.org/hanafi/qibla-hanafi/42625 and https://islamqa.org/hanafi/qibla-hanafi/36346 To read the entire chapter … Continue reading Hanafi Position on Wiping over Socks and Footgear
Pray Behind the Virtuous and Sinful
﷽ وصلى الله على سيدنا محمد وعلى آله وصحبه وسلم There is an important point in Aqida al-Tahawiyah: وَنَرَى الصَّلَاةَ خَلْفَ كُلِّ بَرٍّ وَفَاجِرٍ مِنْ أَهْلِ الْقِبْلَةِ وَعَلَى مَنْ مَاتَ مِنْهُمْ “We consider congregational prayer behind any of the people of qiblah, both the virtuous and the sinful, to be valid. We also pray over … Continue reading Pray Behind the Virtuous and Sinful
Imam Safarini al-Hanbali on Who Are the Ahlul Sunnah Wal Jama’at
Imam al-Safarini (1114-1188 AH) stated: أَهْلُ السُّنَّةِ وَالْجَمَاعَةِ ثَلَاثُ فِرَقٍ الْأَثَرِيَّةُ وَإِمَامُهُمْ أَحْمَدُ بْنُ حَنْبَلٍ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ وَالْأَشْعَرِيَّةُ وَإِمَامُهُمْ أَبُو الْحَسَنِ الْأَشْعَرِيُّ رَحِمَهُ اللَّهُ وَالْمَاتُرِيدِيَّةُ وَإِمَامُهُمْ أَبُو مَنْصُورٍ الْمَاتُرِيدِيُّ. Translation: “Ahl al-sunnah wa’l-jama‘ah is three groups: Atharis, whose leader is Ahmad b. Hanbal, may Allah be pleased with him; Ash‘aris, whose leader is Abu’l-Hasan … Continue reading Imam Safarini al-Hanbali on Who Are the Ahlul Sunnah Wal Jama’at
Yaqeen (Certainty) in Du’a
The following is the answer to a question I posed to Sheikh Walead Mosaad Q: What kind of yaqeen am I supposed to have when making du’a generally?And particularly for seeking shifa? A: Yaqeen that Allah hears your dua and will answer it – but in a manner of His choosing and at a time … Continue reading Yaqeen (Certainty) in Du’a
Wahhabi Takfir of the Ottoman Empire
In Durar 9/291-292 (الدرر السنية في الأجوبة النجدية – ج 9: الجهاد 2 – حكم المرتد) we find the Wahhabis making takfir (excommunication) of the Ottoman Empire, anybody who “worships graves and righteous people” (according to their definition of that), and also anybody who does not agree with them in this takfir. Translation: As for … Continue reading Wahhabi Takfir of the Ottoman Empire
Ahadith Against Extremism
This is a work in progress It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: One who defected from obedience (to the Amir) and separated from the main body of the Muslims – if he died in that state-would die the death of one belonging to the … Continue reading Ahadith Against Extremism
The Ru’ya Twice a Day
﷽ The beautific vision of Allah ﷻ is the greatest reward. Here I will compile the hadith I have found on being given the ru’ya twice a day in Paradise, inshaAllah. Mujahid said, “The lowliest of Heaven’s people shall travel a thousand years in his kingdom, beholding its farthest parts just as he beholds its … Continue reading The Ru’ya Twice a Day
Tafsir Jalalayn – Example of a Sahih Chain and Problematic Matn
Sometimes a hadith can have a sahih chain, but still be rejected. In Tafsir Jalalayn verse 7:190 we find a peculiar narration: Translation: But when He gave them a righteous child they ascribed to Him associates (shurakā’a a variant reading has shirkan meaning sharīkan ‘an associate’) in that which He had given them (by naming … Continue reading Tafsir Jalalayn – Example of a Sahih Chain and Problematic Matn
Wisdom Behind Avoiding Public Affection With Your Spouse
Why do we avoid public affection with our spouses? There’s a deep wisdom behind it.
Leaders Reflect Their People
In the Qur’an we have two verses in surat al-An’am which have a fascinating tafsir about the kinds of leaders we get.
Historical Geography and Timeline of Early Fiqh and Hadith
﷽ Note: insha’Allah, I intend to update this article over time with more details You’ll notice a few things from looking at this map. There’s a complex interplay of time and location between these scholars, which had a significant influence on how they approached their deen. Let’s take a look. Different Eras Imam Abu Hanifa … Continue reading Historical Geography and Timeline of Early Fiqh and Hadith
None More Knowledgeable Than the Scholar of Madina
Abu Musa al-Ash’ari narrated that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “People will go out from East and West in search of knowledge, and they shall find no one more knowledgeable than the knowledgeable scholar of Madinah.” {Related by Imam al-Hakim} Abu Hurayrah who narrated that the Prophet ﷺ said: “Very soon will people beat the flanks of camels in … Continue reading None More Knowledgeable Than the Scholar of Madina
Judaism and the Afterlife
Insha’Allah this will be a continual WIP I’ve found some interesting things in Judaic sources on the afterlife. Mishneh Repentance 8 In the Mishneh Torah, Repentance 8 we find references to Hell and a description of the soul. We also find education on how ephemeral this life is and that the true goal is the … Continue reading Judaism and the Afterlife
What’s the Difference Between an Empire and a Caliphate?
The difference between an empire and a caliphate are clear when you compare European imperialism to Islamic caliphates.
Three Types of Knowledge
There’s 3 types of knowledge: Tajreebi – Experimental. Trial and error. Empirical. ‘Aqli – Intellectual – Like math and logic. Transmitted – Knowledge, history, religious, etc. Prophets (alayhum as-Salaam) give us transmitted religious knowledge (Qur’an and hadith) through chains.
The Maliki-Ash’ari Tradition is the Oldest in The American Continent
A brief review of Islamic history in the West.
Sahih Bukhari Was Written for Scholars, Not Laymen
It is important to note that many of the famous Hadith works we know of were not written for the average Muslim, rather they were written for scholars well versed in the study of hadith.
The God That Failed – Ex-Communists Writings – A Summary
The book “The God That Failed” is a series of six essays written by ex-Communists from Europe and America. Below are summaries of the book which are a good start in refuting Communism as an ideology, which is diametrically opposed to the Shari’a and violates many of its maqasid: the protection of property and religion.
Mentioning the Dajjal From the Minbar
Chapter: The Dajjal Will Not Come Out Until The People Neglect* His Mention Rashid ibn Sa’d narrated: When Istakhar (in Persia) was conquered, a caller called: “Hey! Indeed the Dajjal has come!” Then Sa’b ibn Jathamah met them and said: if not for what you said, I would inform you that indeed I heard the … Continue reading Mentioning the Dajjal From the Minbar
Sheikh AHM On the American vs Mongol Invasion of Iraq
Sheikh Abdul Hakim Murad in an interview on his new book: Travelling Home: Essays on Islam in Europe. The Qur’an is very emphatic that believers should fear God alone. And nowadays we find that this kind of discourse of victimhood that a lot of Muslims have succumbed to is based on a real fear. We’re … Continue reading Sheikh AHM On the American vs Mongol Invasion of Iraq
Albani’s criticism of Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahab
الألباني: محمد بن عبدالوهاب فيه غلو وشده Albani considered Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahab a reformer and praised his Da’wah, but he also criticized him for their excessive Takfir. Albani says about Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahab: – He had exaggeration and harshness– His followers inherited that from his teachings– He could not differentiate between authentic [صحيح] and weak [ضعيف] Ahadith– … Continue reading Albani’s criticism of Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahab
Riyadh as-Saliheen on Six Lawful Instances of Backbiting
Imam Nawawi wrote in Riyadh as-Saliheen that there are six instances where backbiting is permissible.
Osama Bin Laden’s Salafi Arguments – Iraq Letter
OBL used a number of Salafi arguments to justify his actions, like telling people not to listen to scholars but instead listen to him.
What Does “Allah Created Adam in His Image” Mean?
﷽ The Jews and Christians understood this anthropomorphically from the Old Testament. They may refer to God as a “perfect man in the sky” or a “big man” and other man-like characteristics. Muslims almost never understood it this way, aside from a tiny few of sectarians. Hadith This hadith has been transmitted on the authority … Continue reading What Does “Allah Created Adam in His Image” Mean?
How America Inspired the Nazis
Many are unaware of America’s role in inspiring the Nazi party.
Muslim Slave Struggles in America – A Story
Our sister’s great-great grandfather’s story of punishment for teaching his children the Qur’an.
Notes: Albani’s Revolutionary Approach to Hadith
Notes on an academic article on sheikh al-Albani’s approach to hadith and his relationship with the Salafi movement. Interestingly, he agreed with them in aqida but staunchly disagreed in fiqh.
Wird of ibn Taymiyyah
What was the wird of ibn Taymiyyah? Ibn al-Qayyim mentions a practice of his in his Madārij as-Sālikīn.
Meccan and Medinan Jesus ﷺ
Christians have only witnessed one side of the life of Jesus ﷺ: the “Meccan” side.
20 Hadiths on Khatam al-Nabuwwah
20 narrations on the finality of prophethood. It is mutawatir, and therefore a part of our aqida.
On Seeking The Elusive Islamic State
There’s a strange idea among parts of the ummah that “there is no Islamic state.”
War Profiteering of Terror
We all know America’s military-industrial complex is replete with war profiteering. But few are aware of the details in the War on Terror.
How Europe “Got Ahead”
Untying the historical revisionism and false narratives of Western colonialism and the industrial revolution.
2 Common Misconceptions Christians Have About Christianity
When engaging in dialogue with Christians, a good portion of your time may be simply spent on dispelling myths, misconceptions, and straw man arguments about not only Islam, but also about Christianity itself. Most laypeople in the world are generally uninformed about religion in general, including their own. I will say that non-Protestants (IE Catholics, … Continue reading 2 Common Misconceptions Christians Have About Christianity
Ilm al-Muamalah and Ilm al-Mukashafah
When studying Ghazali and similar authors, it’s important to understand the division of two types of the knowledge: Ilm al-Muamalah (علم المعاملة): The outward knowledge that can be taught and learned. It is the knowledge of transactions between us and Allah ﷻ, us and our hearts (ex: sincerity), us and other people (ex: being brotherly … Continue reading Ilm al-Muamalah and Ilm al-Mukashafah
Why Uyghurs Are Being Persecuted – A Brief History
Brief Summary: Xinjiang was incorporated into China in the 1800s. After WWII, they split into two factions in the Chinese civil war, the majority supporting the KMT. After the KMT lost through the rest of China, Xinjiang agreed to join the CCP. Mao recanted his promises. Han Chinese were always favored in Xinjiang politically and … Continue reading Why Uyghurs Are Being Persecuted – A Brief History
Refinement of Hearts
Imam Zaid Shakir said that his Sheikh, Mustafa Turkmani, used to frequently say: رجل واحد صاحب الحال يؤثر على ألف رجل وألف رجل بلا حال لا يؤثرون على واحد A single person who has a refined spiritual state can affect a thousand, but a thousand people who lack any refinement in their state cannot affect … Continue reading Refinement of Hearts
On Socratic Ignorance, Double Ignorance, and the Dunning-Kruger Effect
A lot of people nowadays think that what they know is the extent of what can be known. Ustadh Ubaydullah Evans Socrates was known for many things. He rejected the gods of the Greek pantheon and was a monotheist. He held contempt for Athenian democracy and supported the idea of a technocracy. And he was … Continue reading On Socratic Ignorance, Double Ignorance, and the Dunning-Kruger Effect
Separation of Church and State in Islamic History and Freedom
No people on Earth ever had a more successful separation of Church and state than Muslims did. From a very early time, religious scholars became endowed and separated from the state, and critical of it. The state needed them for legitimacy and they did not need the state. Therefore, they always had the ability to … Continue reading Separation of Church and State in Islamic History and Freedom
Seeing the Faults of Others
One of the signs of the khawarij is they obsess over the faults of others–it’s all they see. They never see their own faults. One of the signs of the awliya’ is they are constantly preoccupied with their own faults, which seem endless. They hardly have time to see the fault of others, their schedule … Continue reading Seeing the Faults of Others
Usul and Furu’ – What Makes a Madhhab
When it comes to the concept of a madhhab, a lot of people simply see the furu’ (fruits) of different madhahab, but they don’t see the usul (methodology) behind them, and that’s actually what makes it a madhhab. A madhhab is what happens when a qualified mujtahid (someone who mastered all of the Islamic sciences … Continue reading Usul and Furu’ – What Makes a Madhhab
Hadith: We Returned from the Lesser Jihad to the Greater Jihad
There’s a famous hadith in Bayhaqi that says: الحديث الذي ورد عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم أنه قال لأصحابه لما رجعوا من الغزو : ( رجعنا من الجهاد الأصغر ، إلى الجهاد الأكبر ) ، قالوا : وهل هناك جهاد أعظم من جهاد الكفار ؟ قال : ( نعم . جهاد النفس ) . It was narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon … Continue reading Hadith: We Returned from the Lesser Jihad to the Greater Jihad
Picking Sides in Politics
The dichotomies of American politics have resulted in a number of American Muslims “picking sides” and throwing vitriol in the other direction. Personally, I don’t have a side to pick–which is representative of the prophetic sira where the prophet ﷺ, when presented with old tribal rivalries on who gets to place the black stone in … Continue reading Picking Sides in Politics
Why Are Trump Supporters Obsessed with the Left?
You can hardly get a word in before a rebuttal is being repeated to you, defending Trump’s latest actions. Yet you actually said nothing about Trump, let alone criticized him. You try to start an intellectual, casual conversation about politics, since this gentleman you are talking with seems interested in politics, and yet the only … Continue reading Why Are Trump Supporters Obsessed with the Left?
Two Types of People Often Targeted by Jinn
It’s notable that many people in the world have never experienced jinn, and may even disbelieve in their very existence. Other folks have several stories to share. Why the different experiences? On a basic level, there’s two types of people who are often targeted by jinn: The first is the most obvious (to Muslims at … Continue reading Two Types of People Often Targeted by Jinn
Meanings of Kalla
The particle kalla كلاَّ, like most particles (ahruf) in Arabic, has multiple meanings and usages. Here insha’Allah I’ll translate 4 of them from alMaany‘s online dictionary. Particle that provides dissuasion, rebuke/reprimand, and and disapproval. It is permitted to stop on it or begin after it.{كَلاَّ سَنَكْتُبُ مَا يَقُولُ} “Nay! We will record what he says…” … Continue reading Meanings of Kalla
Early Christian Theologies
This will be a continual work-in-progress over the years of compiling a list of early Christian theologies, focusing mainly on those with Muslim-sounding themes or major turning points in history. No single early theology lines up 100% with what Muslims believe the prophet Jesus ﷺ truly preached. But by looking at different theologies, we can … Continue reading Early Christian Theologies
Tafsir of Surat al-Ikhlas
﷽ Surat al-Ikhlas is one of the most well-known chapters of the Qur’an which describes Allah ﷻ. It answers the question, “who is God?” Surah Title The title of the chapter is سورة الإخلاص, the chapter of “ikhlas.” It is often translated as “sincerity,” but let’s take a deeper look. It is a form 4 … Continue reading Tafsir of Surat al-Ikhlas
Imam Al-Tufi Al-Hanbali – Ijma on Adopting a Madhhab
Imam Al-Tufi Al-Hanbali [d.716 AH]- may Allah have mercy on him – said in: “Sharh Mukhtasar Al-Rawda” (3/686): “Giving preference [tarjeeh] to a school of thought [madh-hab] – in its entirety over another madh-hab – has occurred by consensus [ijmaa’]…
Bukhari’s Teacher – Adopting a Maddhab Began with the Sahaba
Adopting a madh-hab was practised since the time of the Sahabah and the knowledge of all the Sahabah pours into the 4 schools of thought that are preserved until today.
Selections from the Law of Manu
The Law of Manu or Manusmriti is a legal code on dharma in Hinduism. It was used to formulate the Hindu law by the British colonial government. Note that these legal texts are not really read by lay Hindus, who are more likely to read the Ghita and Upanishads. On Caste and Stages of Life … Continue reading Selections from the Law of Manu
Friedrich Nietzsche on Islam
Friedrich Nietzsche writes in his book, Der AntiChrist (the Anti-Christian) in 1888: The whole labour of the ancient world gone for naught : I have no word to describe the feelings that such an enormity arouses in me. And, considering the fact that its labour was merely preparatory, that with adamantine self consciousness it laid … Continue reading Friedrich Nietzsche on Islam
Aqida of Ibn Kathir
What was the aqida of ibn Kathir? Was it the same as ibn Taymiyyah? Ibn Kathir was of the Shafi’i madhhab and a hadith master (who memorized over 100,000 ahadith). Whatever length of time Ibn Kathir studied with Ibn Taymiya, he was in his twenties when the latter died, and his long and fruitful career … Continue reading Aqida of Ibn Kathir
Tahqiq fi Kalimat al-Quran al-Karim
This Shi’a Arabic dictionary is quite an interesting resource when delving further into the Arabic language. Sunnis also refer to his dictionary for deeper elaboration on words. Hasan al-Muṣṭafawī looks into the original word and its application to various resources used in his interpretation of the meaning. http://alfeker.mediafire.com/?7ahbatndj7pkvtb http://alfeker.mediafire.com/?guso84p5yz8ny6l http://alfeker.mediafire.com/?uab8oamxs8oby1h http://alfeker.mediafire.com/?xivcibxyx12xx5c http://alfeker.mediafire.com/?frzex8kbzk4rzfq http://alfeker.mediafire.com/?lzd7pdz2q95nbpx http://alfeker.mediafire.com/?6241ag8ky692of4 http://alfeker.mediafire.com/?15qhbq6x2o668xi … Continue reading Tahqiq fi Kalimat al-Quran al-Karim
Shahada, Deeds, and Paradise
On the Day of Judgement, nothing will weigh heavier than the testimony of faith: ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan rasulullah. Even 99 scrolls of bad deeds will be outweighed by it. Narrated ‘Abdullah bin ‘Amr bin Al-‘As: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Indeed Allah will distinguish a man from … Continue reading Shahada, Deeds, and Paradise
Special Hour of the Night
The following is from page 289 of Islam in the School of Madina: Sayyidi Abd ar-Rahman ath-Tha’alibi – may Allah benefit us by him – has commented on the words of Allah “and let him not associate anyone in the worship of his Lord” (Quran 18:110) saying: “take note: it has been narrated to us … Continue reading Special Hour of the Night
Lunar Names of Days
In ibn Kathir’s tafsir of verse verse 39 of surat Yasin, we find a listing of lunar names of days in a month according to the stages of the moon phase. وَالْقَمَرَ قَدَّرْنَاهُ مَنَازِلَ حَتَّىٰ عَادَ كَالْعُرْجُونِ الْقَدِيمِ – 36:39 As for the moon, We have ordained ˹precise˺ phases for it, until it ends up … Continue reading Lunar Names of Days
Qur’an on Reincarnation
In chapter 23 of the Qur’an, surat al-Mu’minun, a people after Noah ﷺ are mentioned who denied the resurrection and according to ibn Kathir believed in reincarnation. Ibn Kathir states in commenting on Surat Yasin verse 36:31: Do they not see how many of the generations We have destroyed before them? Verily, they will not … Continue reading Qur’an on Reincarnation
Forgiving a Murder in Islam
There’s a hadith in an-Nasa’i about a man who murdered a man’s brother after he insulted him. The prophet ﷺ tried to find a way for his blood money to be paid, and after it wasn’t possible he allowed the man to either forgive him or exact retribution. But if he forgave him, the murderer … Continue reading Forgiving a Murder in Islam
The Wali in Surat Yasin
In surat Yasin we find the story of three messengers rejected by their nation, and a man from the far side of the city comes running, telling his nation to follow the messengers. His nation then kills him and God destroys them. We find in tafsir ibn Kathir that this man is mentioned as “His … Continue reading The Wali in Surat Yasin
What is a Tariqa?
The word tarīqa (طريقة) originally meant method. You have Shari’a and haqīqah, the law and the ultimate reality of things. The method to get from Shari’a to haqīqah and from haqīqah to Shari’a, is the tarīqa. The paths are as many as the breaths of human beings, as the shuyukh used to say. They are … Continue reading What is a Tariqa?
Love of God – What is Irada?
You may have heard the term murīd in Sufism, as in someone who is on a tariqa; a disciple of a spiritual master (sheikh or murshid). But what does it actually mean? In Arabic Lexicon The term murīd is a form 4 اسم فاعل of the word irāda (إرادة). Its trilateral root is ر و … Continue reading Love of God – What is Irada?
Neo-Pagan Manhood Movement
There’s a strange movement among white Western men of this “alpha male.” High testosterone, high energy, strength training, US military culture, and libido are emphasized, with references to both Jesus and Valhalla (despite being completely contradictory) thrown in for good measure. Statues of masculine men from ancient Rome and Greece are practically worshiped and idolized … Continue reading Neo-Pagan Manhood Movement
The Indic Religions and the Vedas
The Indic religions, also known as Dharmic and Indian religions, are comprised of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and others. They are related with similar roots and core beliefs, but flower out in a variety of beliefs and practices. Let’s start with an intro to the history and then get into the Vedic creation story. Note … Continue reading The Indic Religions and the Vedas
Remembrance of God is Greater
Allah ﷻ says in the Qur’an: اتْلُ مَا أُوحِيَ إِلَيْكَ مِنَ الْكِتَابِ وَأَقِمِ الصَّلَاةَ ۖ إِنَّ الصَّلَاةَ تَنْهَىٰ عَنِ الْفَحْشَاءِ وَالْمُنكَرِ ۗ وَلَذِكْرُ اللَّهِ أَكْبَرُ ۗ وَاللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ مَا تَصْنَعُونَ – 29:45 [Prophet], recite what has been revealed to you of the Scripture; keep up the prayer: prayer restrains outrageous and unacceptable behaviour. Remembering God … Continue reading Remembrance of God is Greater
Imam Suyuti’s 15 Qualifications to be a Mufassir
Imam Suyuti mentioned in his compendium on the sciences of the Qur’an, al-Itqan fi Ulum al-Qur’an, that there are 15 disciplines that a person must master in order to be qualified to interpret the Qur’an. They are: Knowledge of Arabic language and its vocabulary Knowledge of Arabic grammar (nahu) Knowledge of Arabic morphology (sarf) Knowledge … Continue reading Imam Suyuti’s 15 Qualifications to be a Mufassir
An Islamic Model of the Heart & Soul
I’ve been thinking about a model of the heart and soul for awhile, and as I learn I develop my understanding. Here’s where my current understanding is, subject to change as my knowledge grows and I ponder things, insha’Allah. Anything written here could very well be wrong. Qalb, Nafs, Waswasah, and Ruh The qalb, or … Continue reading An Islamic Model of the Heart & Soul
The Kingdom’s Failed Marriage
Below is an article on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Wahhabism. The author argues that Saudi Arabia’s use of Wahhabism for state control is no longer useful and actually harmful to the ruling class and rest of the world.
Wives and Children of the Prophet ﷺ
The first among the wives of the prophet ﷺ was Khadija bint Khuwaylid (رضي الله عنها). The prophet’s ﷺ marriage with Khadija(رضي الله عنها) took place before the beginning of revelation when he was 25 and she was 27 or 40 (scholars differ on her age). Being deeply devoted to the prophet ﷺ, she supported … Continue reading Wives and Children of the Prophet ﷺ
Bible Verses on Jesus and Monotheism
Here is a compilation of Bible verses on monotheism and the prophethood of Jesus ﷺ. Exodus 20:3 “You shall have no other gods before Me.” Exodus 20:4-5“You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down … Continue reading Bible Verses on Jesus and Monotheism
Mushaf Hints for Idgham and Ikhfa’
Some may not be aware that the mushaf itself has hints for indicating idgham (ادغام) and ikhfa’ (اخفاء). The first tanwin kasra ً is parallel, whereas the second one is crooked, indicating idgham. The first and third tanwin dhamma ٌ is a double loop indicating idgham, whereas the second is a single loop with a … Continue reading Mushaf Hints for Idgham and Ikhfa’
The Disconnected Letters – Tafsir
The following is a very brief summary of what several tafasir say (from Furqan.co) about the disconnected letters ( حُرُوف مُقَطَّعَات ) in the Qur’an. الحروف المقطعات:1) الم = أحد أسماء الله2) أحد أسماء القرآن3) ليجعل المشكين يستمعون4) لافتتاح السورة5) بيانا لعجزنا عن معارضته6) قسم من أقسام الله7) كل حرف رمز إلى كلمة. الم: أنا الله أعلم. … Continue reading The Disconnected Letters – Tafsir
Jews Between Revelation
When you study the history of Judaism in the period of the gap between the last two prophets Isa ﷺ and Muhammad ﷺ, you find quite a bit of peculiarities. The Three Jewish–Roman Wars The Jews had just denied the prophet Isa ﷺ and tried to have him killed in 30 CE. Then they started … Continue reading Jews Between Revelation
There Is No Kosher Torah
Something that surprises me is how many Jews still believe the Torah is kosher. Some Jews can debate ad infinitum about various issues in their law, perhaps even to the point of overturning basic principles of faith as is convenient for modern issues. What many are unaware of is the fact that there is no … Continue reading There Is No Kosher Torah
Voluntourism and Postcolonialism
From my time abroad and learning from educated friends, the reality of the world is quite eye-opening compared to what I used to think. It’s kind of disturbing to learn this, actually. But I think it’s important. It’s basically become a business. Abusing children abroad to collect donations from back home, which may just wind … Continue reading Voluntourism and Postcolonialism
Obscenity in Art and Media
These answers are from a Q&A session from a panel of scholars whom I will keep anonymous. Scholar 1: In film, the amount of images out there desensitize us, even Muslims, to sex and violence. Sometimes I see in my news feed people talking about the latest Game of Thrones episode and they’re enamored with … Continue reading Obscenity in Art and Media
Identity, Nationalism, and Denial
Imagine that your brother Donny lives with you in your house. You’ve always been told Donny is a good guy. He loves helping others, feeding the poor, and works hard for his money. Then one day someone tells you otherwise about Donny: that he’s actually a drug dealer, feeds on the poor, destroys communities, and, … Continue reading Identity, Nationalism, and Denial
A Brief History of the Temple of Jerusalem
The first temple was built by the prophet Solomon ﷺ, and he built it virtually identically to the tabernacle. When the children of Israel were wandering in the desert, according to the Bible, they had a tabernacle, a big tent, and that was their temple. It was divided into two sections and the tent was … Continue reading A Brief History of the Temple of Jerusalem
Terrorism Was Never Mainstream Sunni Islam
Summary: “Sunni” Muslim terrorism is rooted in non-traditional Islam, such as the Salafi and Modernist movements. Traditional, orthodox Sunni Muslims have always rejected this behavior and rejected terrorism, from the advent of Islam to today. American Imperialism is a major root of resentment and it fuels terrorism. Terrorism hurts everyone, both Muslims and non-Muslims, though … Continue reading Terrorism Was Never Mainstream Sunni Islam
The Legacy of Our Pious Predecessors
The following is a publication from the Darul Uloom Azaadville publications.
Imam Shatibi on Tasawwuf
In Majalla al-Muslim: al-Ashira al-Muhammadiyya, Sayyid Abu al-Taqi Ahmad Khalil penned an article with the title: “Imam al-Shatibi: the Sufi-Salafi.” He said: “The book, al-Itisam, is one of the books the would-be Salafis consider as a reference work for their views, and they believe that imam Abu Ishaq al-Shatibi is one of their imams. In … Continue reading Imam Shatibi on Tasawwuf
Imam Fakhr ad-Din ar-Razi on Tasawwuf
The great ‘allama and famous Qur’anic exegete, Imam Fakhr ad-Din ar-Razi (تعالى رحمه الله), said in his book, “Itiqadat Firaq al-Muslimin wal-Mushrikin” (The Belief of the Muslim and Pagan Groups): “The eighth section regarding the states (أحوال) of the Sufis: Know, that most of those who enumerated the groups within the umma, did not mention … Continue reading Imam Fakhr ad-Din ar-Razi on Tasawwuf
Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal on Tasawwuf
Before imam Ahmad (رحمه الله تعالى) kept the company of the Sufis, he used to advise his son, Abdullah (رحمه الله تعالى): “Dear son! Upon you are hadith, and beware of sitting with those who call themselves Sufis, for perhaps one of them will be ignorant of the rulings of his religion.” After he [Ahmad] … Continue reading Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal on Tasawwuf
Imam Shafi’i on Tasawwuf
Imam ash-Shafi’i (رحمه الله تعالى) said: I kept the company of the Sufis and I benefited in only two statements from them (and in one narration three statements): “Time is a sword; if you do not cut it, it will cut you.” And their statement: “If you do not busy yourself with the truth, it … Continue reading Imam Shafi’i on Tasawwuf
Imam Malik on Tasawwuf
Imam Malik (رحمه الله تعالى) said: “He who gains knowledge in jurisprudence (fiqh) without tasawwuf then he will certainly become corrupt (fisq), and he who practices tasawwuf without gaining knowledge in jurisprudence will become a heretic (tazandaqa), and he who gathers between the two has proven true (tahaqqaq).” Source: Hashiya of al-Adawi upon imam al-Zurqani’s … Continue reading Imam Malik on Tasawwuf
Imam An-Nawawi on Tasawwuf
Imam an-Nawawi (رحمه الله تعالى) said in his work, “al-Maqaasid (المقاصد): The usul (fundamentals) of the tariqa (path) of tasawwuf are five: Taqwa (fear) of Allah privately and publicly Adherence to the sunnah in speech and action Indifference to whether the creation accepts or rejects (you) Being content with Allah in scarcity and abundance Turning … Continue reading Imam An-Nawawi on Tasawwuf
Ibn Taymiyyah on Tasawwuf
“Ibn Taymiyyah said in volume 10 of his majmu’ page 516-17, speaking of the adherence of the sufiyya to the kitab and sunnah:‘As for those who are upright (mustaqimun) from the salikeen (spiritual wayfarers), such as the majority of the mashayikh as-salaf, such as al-Fudayl ibn Iyad, Ibrahim bin Adham, Abu Sulayman ad-Darani, Maruf al-Karkhi, … Continue reading Ibn Taymiyyah on Tasawwuf
Evolution of Jesus in Early Christianity – Notes
Arius believed Christ was God, but how could Christ be God and God be God? And how could Christ be All-Mighty and God also be All-Mighty? Only one could be All-Mighty. So Arius said that in eternity past, God existed but wasn’t the father yet, so then he begot a son, a secondary level being, … Continue reading Evolution of Jesus in Early Christianity – Notes
What Is a “Good Person?”
Many, nowadays, are deluded by the notion that they don’t need God, because they’re “just a good person.” Firstly, if the one saying this had his/her book of deeds laid out right in front of them that very moment, they would likely be severely deficient in terms of their good and bad deeds. If you … Continue reading What Is a “Good Person?”
Paul Does Not Qualify to be a Narrator
Narrated Abu Huraira: I heard Allah’s Apostle saying, “I am the nearest of all the people to the son of Mary, and all the prophets are paternal brothers, and there has been no prophet between me and him (i.e. Jesus).” [Bukhari and Muslim] According to Islamic standards, Paul does not qualify to be a hadith … Continue reading Paul Does Not Qualify to be a Narrator
Khalid ibn al-Walid: Seeking Blessings Through the Prophet’s ﷺ Hair
It is narrated in al-Bayhaqi’s “Dala’il Nubuwwa” and al-Hakim in the Mustadrak, and others with chains of narration: That Khalid ibn al-Walid lost his skullcap (qalansuwah قلنسوة) on the day of Yarmouk. He said, “find it!” Then they did not find it, then they searched/asked and found it. Khalid said: The messenger of Allah ﷺ … Continue reading Khalid ibn al-Walid: Seeking Blessings Through the Prophet’s ﷺ Hair
The Italian Takeover of Kufra
The Frankfurter Zeitung reporter and author Muhammad Asad interviewed a man from Kufra after its seizure by the Italians in his book The Road to Mecca. “How did Kufra fall?” With a weary gesture, Sidi Umar [al-Mukhṭār] motioned to one of his men to come closer: “Let this man tell thee the story…He is one … Continue reading The Italian Takeover of Kufra
Islam & Race
One thing I love about Islam is there is no “superior” culture or race. Every culture has its positives and negatives, and Islam beautifies it by removing the bad and leaving the good. This is the attitude of the ummah and of our forefathers, and this attitude is in stark contrast to the attitudes of … Continue reading Islam & Race
The Hippie Trail: Afghanistan Before the War
Back in the mid-1950s to the late 1970s, Afghanistan was, in fact, a major tourism destination. A variety of folks would be found in the plethora of hotels and tourism agencies in Kabul and other cities. The “hippie trail,” as it was known in Europe, crossed a multitude of Muslim countries, causing a boom in … Continue reading The Hippie Trail: Afghanistan Before the War
Halaqa 