Day 27: The Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr)

                      The Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr)

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters. I wanted to apologize for not blogging for a while. But, I kind of got busy in the day and forgot about my blogs. Sorry about that, but I wanted to blog about Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power) because it is one of the important nights during Ramadan. We have reached Day 27 and we have more 3 more days. I will like to share a hadith with you before I begin: Abu Ayub narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said "Whoever fasts Ramadan, then follows it with six Shawwal, then that is (equal in reward) to fasting every day" (Hadith).

 Abu Huraira reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said "Whoever performs the night prayer on the night of Al Qadr with firm faith and seeking rewards will have all his past sins forgiven. This hadith has been recorded by Bukhari and Muslim. Allah says "We sent the Quran down on a blessed night, verily we are ever warning therein on that night is decreed every matter of ordainment" (Surah ad Dukham Verse 3-4). Therefore it is a blessed night, it possess much good and blessings due to its merit and great rewards awaits. The night of Al Qadr is better than a 1,000 months "the angels and Jibreel (Gabriel) descend by their Lord's permission with all decrees there is peace until the appearance of dawn" (Suratul Qadr Verse 1-5). Ibn Kathir said concerning what Allah says therein descends the angels and it means that the descending of the angels increases during this night due to the vast amount of its blessings and the angels send along blessings and mercy. When the Quran is recited and encompass the gatherings in which Allah is remembered and spread their wings, for the true seeker of knowledge out of respect for Him. Abu Huraria reported the Prophet (PBUH) said "Ramadan has come to you a blessed month, Allah has made it obligatory upon you to fast in it. During this month the gates of heaven are open, the gates of hell-fire are closed and the evil are chained. To Allah belongs a night in it which is better than a thousand months whoever is prevented from its good then he has been deprived". This hadith is recorded by Ahmad.

 We should supplicate much on the nights in which the night of Al-Qadr and we should supplicate what the Prophet (PBUH) instructed. Aisha reported that she asked the Prophet (PBUH) "If I realize Laylatul Qadr what should I supplicate in it?" The Prophet (PBUH) replied "You should supplicate Ya Allah you are the most forgiving and you love forgiveness, so forgive me". This hadith is recorded by Tirmdhi. The night of Qadr is during the last 10 days and its on odd days' like 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 29th. May Allah grant us Laylatul Qadr and give its full rewards to us.

Day 22 of Ramadan: Don't Starve Yourself

                                Don't Starve Yourself

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters we have reached day 22 of Ramadan, we have about a week and a half left. Remember these last 10 days are the crucial part of Ramadan. I will discuss about that if you are not going to try to change your actions don't starve your bodies. I will like to share an hadith: Salim reported on the authority of his father that a person saw Laylatul Qadr on the 27th (of Ramadan). Thereupon the Prophet (PBUH) said "I see that your dreams agree regarding the last ten (nights of Ramadan). So seek it on an odd number (of these ten nights)" (hadith).

 Many of us utilize our time and efforts, we retain the rewards for all the fasting we have done so far. There is one particular hadith that I feel a lot of Muslims faces these days, and the hadith is about fasting. "The one who does not abandon evil in speech and actions, that Allah (S.W.T.) is not needy for this person to leave his food and drink". This is a situation that many of us have. Yes, we are fasting by restricting ourselves from eating and drinking, but the way we act is a form of disobeying Allah (S.W.T.). All we are doing is keeping ourselves hungry and thirsty and fasting is much more than that. A person should be fasting with their eyes, hands, hearts, limbs, and whole bodies. The true fast is the one which is obedient to Allah (S.W.T.) we should stay away from our desires and be careful in our speech and actions. Bad actions can decrease the reward and make you lose the reward that a person could have gained. Allah (S.W.T.) is not in need of our hunger and thirst but we are in need of His mercy and forgiveness. 

 So guys this is the end of my blog. I hope this was beneficial for you. Stay tuned for my daily Ramadan blogs, for the remainder days we have left. May Allah (S.W.T.) forgive our sins and accept all the days we have fasted. As for now Peace and Stay Halal. :D <3

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Day 21 of Ramadan: Facts about the Last Ten Days

                               Facts about the Last 10 Days

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters, we have reached day 21 of Ramadan we have approximately one week left. We have fasted for 20 days in New York and now we just have to fast 10 more days. As I said in my last blog these last 10 days are the crucial part of Ramadan and we shouldn't get week. I will like to share some facts that I have read last night about these last 10 days, and you will feel happy when you read these facts. I will like to share a hadith: Narrated by Abu Hurairah that the Prophet (PBUH) said "No sadaqah is due on a horse or a slave except that given at the breaking of the fast (at the end of Ramadan)" (Hadith).

 Some interesting and important facts to know about Laylatul Qadr. Laylatul Qadr is one night, from maghrib to fajr, let's say that is approximately 9 hours is equivalent to 1000 months. That is 83.4 years. That means 9 hours is approximately equal to 90 years. 1 hour of deeds is considered as 10 years of good deeds, one minute of deed is equal to 2 months of rewards. One second of deeds is equal to one day or 24 hours of rewards. SubhanAllah, and it is written as you did dhikr for 24 hours non stop. Think about it, if you waste one hour in non essential things on Laylatul Qadr you have wasted 10 years. What if we are engaged in a good deed for an hour  than we have gained 10 years of good deeds. Now it times for you to decide where you want to invest your each second of Laytul Qadr.

So guys this is the end of my blog. I apologize that today's blog is a little bit, but in the next few blogs I will discuss a little bit more about Laylatul Qadr. May Allah (S.W.T.) grant us this blessed night and may Allah (S.W.T.) have mercy on all of us. Stay tuned for my daily Ramadan blogs. As for now Peace and Stay Halal :D <3

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Day 20 of Ramadan: Sunnah of the Last 10 days

                          Sunnah of the Last 10 days

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters Alhumdillah we have reached day 20 of Ramadan. We only have 10 more days left, time flies by fast it felt like if Ramadan just started yesterday. I wanted to talk about the Sunnah of the Last 10 days so we can leave Ramadan with a lot of blessings that we can gain during this month. The last days are important because usually get lazy at this point and don't complete much ibadaah, but on these days we should complete more. I will like to now share a hadith: It was narrated that Abu Hurairah said "The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to encourage (us) to pray Qiyam during Ramadan, without insisting on that, and he said: Whoever spends the nights of Ramadan in prayer (Qiyam) out of faith and in the hope of reward, he will be forgiven his previous sins" (Hadith).

  Have you ever wondered how a person should observe Laytul Qadr (Night of Power)? Is it by praying or reading the Quran or by the Prophet's (PBUH) life stories, listening to lectures and lectures and by celebrating it in the masjid?  The Prophet (PBUH) used to strive hard in his worship during the last 10 days of Ramadan, as he never did at any other time. Praying, reading the Quran and making dua (supplication). Imam Bukhari and Muslim narrated from Aisha (RA) "That when the last days of Ramadan came the Prophet (PBUH) would stay up at night ad would abstain from marital relations. The Prophet (PBUH) used to wake up his family for the prayer during the last 10 days and not in other nights. Safyan At-Thawree stated "Praying tahhajud in the last part of the night is beloved to me and that a person strives in it and wakens his family to pray if they are able. The Prophet (PBUH) used to knock on Fatimah and Ali's door at night and say to them will you not wake up Aisha (RA) up at night after he finished praying Tahhajud before he prayed Witr.

So guys this is the end of my blog, I apologize it for being so short today. I hope that you guys can implement these Sunnah's in these 10 days. May Allah (S.W.T.) give us tawfeeq to stay awake the remaining nights of Ramadan and grant us Laytul Qadr. Stay tune for my daily Ramadan blogs. As for now Peace and Stay Halal :D <3

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Day 19 of Ramadan: Imagine the Reward

                               Imagine the Reward

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters we have reached Day 19 of Ramadan, we are almost approaching the last 10 days. 18 down and 11 more to go. Today I will like to discuss about the rewards of reading the Quran. I will like to share a hadith: Abu Huraira reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said "Your (ordinary) fire is one of 70 parts of the Hell fire. Someone asked, O Allah's Messenger This fire would have been sufficient (to torture the unbelievers), The Prophet (PBUH) The (Hell) Fire has 69 parts more than the ordinary (worldly) fire, each part is as hot as this (worldly) fire" (Hadith).

 The Quran has an more important significance in the month of Ramadan Allah (S.W.T.) said "The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind and clear proof, for the guidance and criterion that is between right and wrong" (Surat al Baqarah, Verse 185). Jibreel (AS) (Gabriel) used to come to the Prophet (PBUH) every night in the month of Ramadan and studied the Quran with him. This hadith has been recorded by Bukhari and Muslim. Outside of Ramadan there are 10 rewards for reciting each letter of the Quran. The Prophet (PBUH) says whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah (S.W.T.) will receive the reward from it that is his recitation and reward is multiplied by 10. The Prophet (PBUH) said "I do not Alif Laam Meem is considered as a letter rather alif is a letter, laam is a letter and meem is a letter. This hadith is recorded by Tirmidhi and Danmi. Good deeds are multiplied by 70 in the month of Ramadan. The Prophet (PBUH) said "Whoever draws near Allah (S.W.T.) during Ramadan with a single characteristic from the characteristics of voluntary good deeds. He is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times and whoever performs an obligatory act during it (Ramadan), is like whoever performs 70 obligatory acts in other times. This hadith is recorded by Ibn Khuzayman. Each letter of the Quran is rewarded 700 good deeds or more. The greater our intention, and the more sincere we are than our rewards will be multiplied even more. Those who struggle to read get double the reward. They will receive double of the reward minimum of 1400 Good deeds for each letter. Aisha relates that the Prophet said "Verily the one who recites the Quran beautifully, smoothly and precisely. He will be in the company of the noble and obedient Angels. As for the one who recites with difficulty stammering and stumbling through the verse, then he will have twice the reward". This hadith is recorded by Bukhari and Muslim. This hadith shows that people who struggle in the Arabic language get even an higher reward for their extra effort. So, they should never feel down about not being able to recite. Imagine how many rewards it would be for reciting the entire Quran once? or more? So let us recite as much of the Quran during this blessed month.

 So guys this is the end of today's blog I hope you guys have learned something new and feel this is beneficial. Stay tuned for my daily Ramadan Blogs. As for now Peace and Stay Halal :D <3

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Day 18 of Ramadan: Fasting is a Shield

                                Fasting is a Shield

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters we have reached day 18 of Ramadan so far. I apologize for posting so late today but I had a busy day. I know I have said numerous times in my blog that fasting is a shield but today I will to emphasize a little bit more and also how fasting has became obligatory for us. I will like to now share a hadith: Ibn Abbas (RA) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said "Do not observe Saum (fasting) before the advent of Ramadan. Observe Saum at sighting of the crescent of Ramadan and terminate it at sighting the crescent (of Shawwal). If the sky is overcast, complete (the month as) thirty (days)" (Hadith).

 The Prophet (PBUH) has said that "Fasting is a shield" and He commanded that those who had intense desire for marriage, but were not able to marry should fast because it will make it a shield to go against these desires. When the benefits of fasting one will come to realize that Allah prescribed it as a mercy for mankind, goodness for them and a protection from desires that can cause a person harm. The Prophet (PBUH) guidance was the most perfect guidance and the best for reaching the desire. Objective and the easiest on the soul, since restraining the soul from what it loves and desires is one of the most difficult and hardest. Ramadan's obligation was delayed until the middle of Islam. After the Hijrah this was at the point when tawheed and the prayer had become firmly established in the soul of Muslims, when they loved the commands of Allah (S.W.T.) their souls would light to its obligation. Ramadan became obligatory in the second of Hijrah. When the Prophet (PBUH) passed away he had only fasted 9 Ramadans. It was obligated as an option left to the people to choose whether they wanted to fast or to feed needy people everyday. Then the option finally became obligatory for fasting. Feeding the needy people was only an option for the elderly. Fasting had 3 stages: the 1st stage was it being obligated with the option of fasting or feeding a needy person. The 2nd stage only the fasting was allowed, but if the person fasting, he was forbidden from eating and drinking until the following night. The 3rd stage Islam has settled until the Day of Judgement, this is the wisdom and benefits from fasting.

 So guys this is the end of my blog, I hope you guys learned something new in this blog. Stay tuned for my daily blogs about Ramadan. From now on I will post around this time on the weekdays because I am busy during the afternoons on weekdays. May Allah (S.W.T.) give you the tawfeeq to understand. Peace and Stay Halal :D <3

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Ramadan Blog Day 17: Tackling your Weakness

                       Tackling Your Weakness

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters we have reached day 17 of Ramadan. We have almost reached the last 10 days of Ramadan. SubhanAllah time flies by fast I can't believe we are almost done with this blessed month. Today I wanted to talk about our weakness and how we can overcome it. We all have weakness in life and in our Iman (faith) and we need to fix that. In order to fix societal problems one must fix themselves in order to fix the problems that the outside world facing. I will share a exercise that I saw last night in a video and I thought it was beneficial, and thought why I don't share it with my viewers. This exercise you can use for any of your weakness that you face, it doesn't only have to be based on Ramadan, use it to fix your weakness in other parts of your life. Now I will share a hadith with you before I begin: Abu Huraira Verily the Prophet (PBUH) said "The five prayers and from one Friday prayer to the next Friday prayer, and from Ramadan to Ramadan are expiation's for the sins committed in between provided one shuns the major sins" (hadith).

 

 We are victims from our weakness to Iman (faith). We are all individually different, so therefore we have different weakness. I will share an exercise with you so you can define your weakness and then have a plan for overcoming the weakness in your Iman (faith). It's called the Ramadan Circle of Re-enforcement. This exercise begins by drawing a circle on the middle of your page or wherever you want to make your plan and you write your name in the circle. After, that your draw 4 arrows which says each weakness you want to tackle. Be honest about your weakness so you can make an accurate action plan. Once again, you do not have to share it this is for your own self. For example one of your weakness can be is that you get caught up in work, another can be missing Fajr (morning prayer). Another one can be that you feel that you lack confidence in your Iman (faith). The next step is you draw another arrow but this time its away from the circle. One arrow for each weakness that you have. The arrows away from the circle represent the daily actions or habits that you need to implement for you to overcome that specific weakness. Let's say for the example that you get caught up in work, than your action will be get a calendar so you can balance your work and ibadah (prayers). If you keep missing your Fajr (morning prayer) your action plan can be try to go to sleep early. If you lack confidence in your Iman (faith) your action plan can be by going to classes get to know people who have confidence in their Iman (faith) so you can see what they are doing. Now, go make your own Ramadan circle of re-enforcement by defining your weakness and the actions that will help you tackle your weakness.

 So guys this is the end of my blog, hopefully this is beneficial for you and your love ones. Don't forget to share with friends and family. I will post the link of the video that I saw this exercise.  Peace and Stay Halal :D 

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0so2f4WRYtc

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Day 16 of Ramadan Blogs: Setting Goals for Beginners

                             Settings Goals for Beginners

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters we have reached day 16 of Ramadan in New York. We have fasted for 15 days so far and now we only have 15 more left. Not a lot of people set goals during Ramadan and then a person can lose track of their time and should they do. Ramadan is about improving your behavior and try to become a better person. So, today I will talk about how you can set up your goals and give you some examples so you structure your own goals. But, before I go straight to the goals part I will like to share a hadith for you guys: Anas bin Malik (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said "Whoever asks Allah (S.W.T.) Paradise three times Paradise says O Allah admit him into Paradise, and whoever seeks refuge from the Fire three times the Fire says O Allah, save him from the Fire" (hadith). 

 In Surah Adh-Dhariyat Ayah no.5 Allah (S.W.T.) encourages to set goals. There is an Arabic word known as Ahdat which means what are the persons motives and actions are in life and how to direct it towards achieve a change in a persons life. The root meaning of the word is to achieve and can be accomplished on a regular basis. I will like to show you 2 examples of how a person can accomplish their goals this Ramadan. The first example could be that you want to improve your Salah (prayer) this Ramadan, so than you set three small goals that will help you achieve your overall goal which is improving your Salah (prayer). There are three small goals: goals, daily and dua (supplication). For example goal no.1 is reading a book on the virtues of Salah (prayer). The daily goal would be read a chapter a day, and for the dua (supplication) goal set a specific dua (supplication) that will help you. Goal.2 can be learning about the structure of Salah (prayer). Learn a point each day and a specific dua (supplication) to you. Goal no.3 could be doing an online course, and the daily goal will be to complete a module a day and then a learn a specific dua (supplication) to help you out. 

  Another example of a big goal is trying to attaining peace in Ramadan. Goal no.1 could be reading a book about patience the daily goal would be to read a chapter a day and then learn a dua to help you. Goal no.2 could be is learning the story about Yusuf (AS), the daily goal will be reading each part a day and then learn dua to help you. For the dua goal you can overall learn 5 duas, you learn 1 dua each day for 5 days and try to memorize it and implement it in your life. Now its time for you to set your own goals, In Sha Allah we can all use this, including myself to become a better person. 

 So guys this is the end of my blog hopefully by reading this blog it was helpful for you. Stay tuned for my daily Ramadan blogs. May Allah (S.W.T.) help you achieve your goals that you have set during this Ramadan. See you guys tomorrow. Peace and Stay Halal :D <3

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Day 15 of Ramadan: Take Advantage Now

                                     Take Advantage Now

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters, today we have reached the first half of Ramadan. We are almost done with this blessed month and we should take advantage of it, if you haven't started already. It is never too late to start anything. I will comparing Ramadan between our Prophet Yusuf (AS) today and how his characteristic matches the characteristic of Ramadan. But, before I begin the comparison I will like to share a hadith: It was narrated by Amr bin Abasah that the Prophet (PBUH) said "Whoever builds a masjid (mosque) in which Allah (S.W.T.) will build for him a house in Paradise" (hadith). Hopefully by the end of this blog you can see the comparison between Ramadan and Prophet Yusuf (AS).

  Yusuf (AS) was the most beloved son to Yaqub, Yaqub had 12 sons. Ramadan is likewise the most beloved month to Allah (S.W.T.). Another point is that if Yusuf (AS) had the mercy and compassion to say What Allah (S.W.T.) said that "There is no reproach for you today". Ramadan is the same, the month of mercy, blessings, goodness, salvation from the fire and forgiveness from Allah (S.W.T.). Another point ti re-evaluate is that Yusuf (AS) came to rely on Him to fix their mistakes, after all those they had made, he met with them with kindness and helped them out. He fed them while they were hungry and allowed them to return. He told his servants to carry their belongings so they won't be able to lose them. One person filled the gaps of eleven others and the month of Ramadan is likewise, its the month that fills the gaps of our actions over the other 11 months. Another point is that Yaqub had 11 sons who were living with him and whose actions he saw daily. His eye sight did not return because of one of their clothing's, instead it returned due to Yusuf''s shirts his eye sight came back strong and he became strong as well. Ramadan is the same when a sinner smells the scent of Ramadan they sit with those who reminded him of Allah (S.W.T.). Recite the Quran. He will become forgiven after he was a sinner, he will become close after he was far. He will be able to see with his heart, he will be blessed with forgiveness when he meets Allah (S.W.T.) and he will be granted the best levels in the garden of Paradise. Take advantage of this greatness during these few days and you will see abundant blessings. 

  So guys I have reached the end of this blog, hopefully you guys learned something about Prophet Yusuf (AS) and how his characteristics are similar as Ramadan. May Allah give us the tawfeeq to understand. Stay tuned for my daily Ramadan Blogs. As for now Peace and Stay Halal :D <3

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Day 14 of Ramadan: What Breaks Your Fast?

                                  What Breaks Your Fast?

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters first I will like to apologize for posting so late today, but I was very busy today. We have fasted for 14 days in New York so far and now we have 16 more left. Ma Sha Allah time flies by so fast. Today I will like to discuss what are the things or actions that can break a persons fast not many now what can break their fast. But before I talk about it I will like to share a hadith: Narrated by Ibn Abbas "The Prophet (PBUH) was the most generous of all the people, and he use to become more generous in Ramadan when Jibreel (Gabriel) met him every night during Ramadan to revise the Quran with him. Allah's Messenger (PBUH) then used to be more generous than the fast wind" (Hadith). Hopefully by the end of this you will learn what breaks your fast and the reason behind it.

 By a person fasting it means keeping all of ones organs free from sin and some points are required for its accomplishments: 1) see not what Allah (S.W.T.) dislikes. You shouldn't see something that will distracts the heart and diverts the attention from the remembrance of Allah (S.W.T.). The Prophet (PBUH) said "The future glance is one of the poisoned arrows of Shaytaan. Whoever forsakes it for the fear of Allah (S.W.T.) will receive from him a faith. The sweetness of which he will find within his heart". Jabir (RA) relates from Anas (RA) that the Prophet (PBUH) said "5 things that breaks a man fast lying, backbiting, gossiping, perjury and lustful gaze". Instead a person should occupy their tongue by reciting the Quran because at least a person is doing something good and remembering Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) said "Fasting is a shield so when one of you is fasting he should not use foul or foolish talk. If someone attacks him or insults him. Let him say I am fasting (2x)" The second point is to take Allah (S.W.T.) with fear and hope. Because none of us know if our fast will be accepted or not and also so that we can find favor with Allah (S.W.T.). This is how one should be at the end of any act of worship. Al Ahnaf Ibn Qays reported that he was once told "You are an old aged elder, fasting would enfeeble you. He replied "I am making ready for a long journey. O believers to Allah (S.W.T.) is easier to endure his punishment". These are the inwardly significant meaning of fasting and what we should avoid while fasting.

 So guys this is the end of my blog. Hopefully this blog has benefited you. May Allah (S.W.T.) give us tawfeeq to understand. Stay tuned for my daily Ramadan blogs. Don't forget to share and comment about any ideas you will like me to discuss about. Till then Peace and Stay Halal.

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Day 13 of Ramadan: The Reward for Fasting

                              The Reward for Fasting

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters today I will like to discuss about the rewards of fasting. A lot of us know what's the reason behind fasting, but not the rewards that Allah (S.W.T.) gives us on this blessed month. We have so far fasted for 12 days in New York and we only 18 more left. But, before I talk about the rewards of fasting I will like to share a hadith: Abu Huraira reported "I heard the Prophet (PBUH) saying Fasting in Ramadan the month of patience, and three days in every month is like fasting a lifetime" (Hadith). Hopefully by the end of this blog you will learn some of the rewards for fasting.

 Ibn Al Qayim Al Jawziyyah said a beautiful remind and advice that I will like to share with you guys today. He said "Where are those pray by night? Where are those who obey our Lord? Where are those who work righteousness? Where are those who are foremost and where are the humble ones? Where are those who Remember Lord? And where are those devoted to him? Where are the truthful ones? Where are the Patient? Where are the charity givers? Where are those who enjoin good? Who saved the trouble one? and who forbid the wrong? Where are those who heed contemplation and who listen to good advice and life lessons?" "By Allah, they have indeed gone with the righteous returned with the believers, settled with the Prophets. Taken residence with the truthful ones. But us we have remain behind with the ignorant, have settled with the wrongdoers and have taken the heedless as our guides. Fasting is a shield of nations, protecting from the hell fire. Fasting is the fortress for whoever fears that fire. "Fasting is a covering for all the people of goodness. Those who fear the burden of blame and sinfulness and this month is the month of the Lord of the Throne". "Their reward lies with the Exalted and Forgiving one, so they came to settle in the everlasting gardens, surrounded by maidens, the rivers, the plantations. Glad tidings to those who obey the Most Merciful King in this month of mercy, this month of Ramadan. Every time you do good in this month, you shall be rewarded for the rest of your life, because righteousness is a habit and evil is stubbornness."

 "Where are you O Fasting one who pray by night come forth to goodness and you shall triumph with everlasting happiness! Apologize and He will accept your apology, seek His forgiveness and He shall forgive your sins. Draw close to him and He shall alleviate your sufferings." "O my brothers (and sisters) in this month all faults and mistakes are concealed. All souls and hearts are softened, sins and burdens are forgiven. Allah (S.W.T.) relieves every sad and troubled one he says to his Angels "O, my angels Look at those dry tongues, how they become moist with remembrance. Look at those hard eyes how they soften and weep out of fear of me. And look at those delicate feet planted firmly in the station of prayer cut of desire for me." "O, my dear brothers (and sisters) whenever you give food to others in this month for the sake of Allah (S.W.T.) you shall be raised to high ranks in Paradise. You will be dotted with complete goodness and stripped of all sin."

 So guys this is the end of today's blog I know it is a longer reminder but it is beautiful. He mentions almost all of the rewards that this blessed month of Ramadan gives us. I hope this reminder and advice motivates you to fast for the rest of the month. May Allah give us Tawfeeq to understand and follow the month of Ramadan the way it is advised by Imam Ibn Al Qayim Al Jawaziyyah. Stay tune for my daily Ramadan blogs. Peace and Stay Halal.

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Day 12 of Ramadan: Fasting on Hot Days

                            Fasting on Hot Days

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters today I will like to discuss about fasting on hot days. Since, it is summer time and there are some days where their is a lot of heat and some people can't bear the heat. Hopefully by the end of this blog, you guys will become more motivated to fast in the summer and complete the rest of the fasts. So far, we have fasted for 11 days and we only have 19 more to go. But before I share with you guys about fasting in the summer. I will like to share a hadith: Abdullah ibn Abbas (RA) reported one day I was behind the Prophet (PBUH) and he said to me "O young man, I shall teach you some words (advice). Be mindful of Allah (S.W.T.), and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, ask of Allah (S.W.T.); and if you seek help; seek help from Allah (S.W.T.). Know that even in the nation were to gather together to benefit you with something, they would not benefit you with anything except that which Allah has already recorded for you, and that if they gather together to harm you with something, they would not be able to harm you with anything except that which Allah has already recorded against you. The pages have been lifted and the pages have dried" (Hadith). The meaning of this Hadith is that Allah is your protector and will help you if it won't cause you any harm. He is one who has wrote our fate and if he wants to he can change it. Now I will talk about fasting in the summer.

  Ibn Rajab (RA) mentioned something about the virtues of fasting in the heat in his book Latai'f Al Ma'Arif, what he mentioned in his book is "From the act of worship whose reward is multiplied during the heat is fasting". This is because of the thirst that one experiences in the mid-day heat. It is said that Abu Bakar (RA) who was one of the Prophet's (PBUH) close friend would fast in the summer and not fast in the summer and not fast in the winter. Umar (RA) advised his son Abdullah on his deathbed he said "Try to obtain the characteristics of faith". The first characteristic he mentioned was fasting in the intense summer heat. Al-Qasim bin Muhammad said that Aisha (RA) who was the Prophet (PBUH) wife, she would fast in the intense heat and he asked Aisha what drove her to fast in the intense heat. She replied by saying she would take advantage on the days before death. Some of the righteous woman would choose the hottest day and fast on those days. They would say "If the price is low everyone will buy" what they meant was by fasting in the summer heat only a few people would do it because it is more harder to fast in the summer than the other seasons. Abu Mus Al-Ashra was on a boat one day and he heard someone call out "O Passengers stand up" and the person said this 3 times. So Abu Musa replied "How can we stand up? Don't you see where we are? How can we stand up" So the caller said "Let me tell you a rule Allah (S.W.T.) made upon himself whoever makes himself thirsty for Allah's (S.W.T.) sake on a hot day has a right upon Allah (S.W.T.) to have his thirst quenched on the day of resurrection". SO Abu Musa would look forward to the days that were hot and would fast on those days. 

 K'ab said that Allah (S.W.T.) said to Musa (Moses) "I made it incumbent upon myself that whoever is thirsty for the sake will have this thirst quenched on the day of resurrection". Many have said this was written in the Torah "Glad tidings for whoever makes himself hungry in anticipation of the great day where he will have his hunger satisfied" and "Glad tidings for whoever makes himself thirsty in anticipation of the Great day where he will have this thirst quenched".

So guys this is the end of today's blog. I hope this blog has made you more motivated to fast on the days where there is intense heat. Stay tune for my daily Ramadan blogs. May Allah (S.W.T.) accept all of our fasting on the blessed month of Ramadan. Peace and StayHalal

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Day 11 of Ramadan: Blessings in Suhoor & Iftaar

                            Blessings in Suhoor & Iftaar

Blessings in Iftaar

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters today is the 11th day of Ramadan. Today I will discuss the blessings for both suhoor and iftaar. But before I discuss the importance of suhoor and iftaar I will like to share a hadith for you guys: Wathlia ibn Al-Aqsa reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said "The scriptures of Abraham (AS) were revealed on the first night of Ramadan. The Torah was revealed after six nights of Ramadan had passed. The Gospel was revealed after thirteen of Ramadan had passed. The Criterion was revealed twenty-four nights of Ramadan had passed" (Hadith). Now I will begin to discuss about the blessings of both suhoor and iftaar.

 We have heard different virtues of Ramadan but we rarely hear about the virtues of suhoor and iftaar, which are two important aspects during Ramadan. Suhoor and iftaar is not only to fill up our stomachs, rather it is a spiritual aspect. In the following hadith the Prophet (PBUH) said "The one who fasts has 2 moments off happiness, when he breaks his fast and when he meets his Lord". This hadith is recorded by Imam Bukhari. Many scholars have commented on this hadith by saying that this happiness is a natural happiness due to hunger and thirst. There is also another reason why a believer is happy. The reason that the believers were able to complete this great act of worship, and they are pleased that they have fulfilled the command of their Lord by breaking their fast. The Prophet said "The one who eats and is grateful is on the same level as the one who fasts and is patient". This hadith is recorded by Bukhari and Tirmidhi. Another aspect of iftaar that the Prophet (PBUH) was the importance of breaking the fast and not to delay it. The Prophet (PBUH) said "Mankind will continue to remain as long as they hasten to break their fast". This hadith is recorded by Muslim and Bukhari. The Prophet (PBUH) said "The religion will remain to be manifest as long as people hasten in breaking their fast". This hadith is recorded by Abu Dawud. If the Ummah (nation) is eager by following the Sunnah (principles of the Prophet (PBUH) stopping at its boundaries regardless of whether it agrees with their intellect or not. The Prophet (PBUH) said "My Ummah (nation) will continue upon my Sunnah, as long as they do not doing their iftaar until the stars appear". This hadith has been recorded by Abu Dawud. Breaking a fast is a spiritual experience it causes one to feel happy at the fact that they have followed Allah's command. Remember to always thank Allah (S.W.T.) for the food you have been provided. It is an golden opportunity to recognize the blessings of Allah (S.W.T.).

Blessings in Suhoor

 Suhoor is another significant aspect during Ramadan for some it means to store up food for coming days. The Prophet (PBUH) always encouraged his Sahabas (companions) to have suhoor for many reasons. The Prophet (PBUH) said "Have suhoor, for verily there is blessings in it". This hadith is recorded by Bukhari and Muslim. Suhoor is an opportunity to gain some Barakah (blessings). The following are some reasons for the blessings of suhoor: 1) Following the sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) 2) differing from the people of the Book 3) strengthening ourselves for worship 4) repelling bad characteristics that are associated with hunger 5) opportunity to make dhikr and dua. The Prophet (PBUH) said "Indeed it is a blessing that Allah (S.W.T.) has given to all of you, so do not leave it". This hadith is recorded by Nasai. The Prophet (PBUH) said "Have suhoor even if it is a mouth full of water". This hadith is recorded by Ibn hibban. The Prophet (PBUH) also said "Indeed Allah (S.W.T.) and his angels send Salah (prayers) upon those who have suhoor". This hadith is recorded by Tabrani. The salah (prayers) of Allah (S.W.T.) that he mentions, that the person amongst the highest of gatherings whilst the salah (prayer) of the angels that they are making istighfaar (forgiveness) for those who have suhoor. Remember the virtue of any acts of worship helps one to truly benefit spirituality from that act of worship and this applies to suhoor and iftaar.

So guys this is the end of today's blog. Stay tune for my daily Ramadan blogs and don't forget to share. May Allah grant us the ability to benefit from our fast, from dawn to dusk and make us feel the sweetness of worshiping to Allah (S.W.T.) Peace and Stay Halal.

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Day 10 of Ramadan Blogs: Time for forgiveness

                                     Time for Forgiveness

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters today is the 10th day of Ramadan. We have completed 1/3rd of Ramadan. Ramadan is divided into three parts and each of those 10 days have something special attached to it. The first 10 days of Ramadan is the time for the mercy of Allah, the second 10 days of Ramadan is the time for forgiveness; which I will discuss today and the last 10 days of Ramadan is the time of salvation. Before I discuss about the time for forgiveness I will like to share a hadith: Ibn Abbas (RA) said The Prophet (PBUH) said "If anyone constantly seeks pardon from Allah (S.W.T.) Allah (S.W.T.) will appoint for him a way out of every distress and a relief from every anxiety, and will provide sustenance from where he expects not" (Hadith). Now I will discuss about forgiveness during Ramadan.

 Forgiveness leads a telling tale in the hearts of the believers. As believing in Allah says that Allah will forgive whether we do wrong, only if we ask for forgiveness. Allah provides these special 10 days to go ahead and repent from our sins in order to be forgiven. From the Prophet (PBUH) we are reminded that forgiveness is one of the gems that builds a strong relationship between a believer and Allah. Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) (AS) appeared to the Prophet (PBUH) are saying "Woe to Him who found the blessed month of Ramadan and let is pass by without gaining forgiveness". The Prophet (PBUH) replied "Ameen". So by almost entering the middle of Ramadan it is all about forgiveness. Forgiveness is a liberating feeling especially if it comes from Allah. So as Ramadan rolls on lets find time to forgive others and ourselves. We should apologize to those whom we have wronged and to ask Allah to forgive us for doing wrong to others and ourselves. In this blessed month of Ramadan Allah (S.W.T.) "I AM TAU-BAH and AR RAHEEM". The first part means Allah accepts Tau-bah of the people who turn to him.  Tau-bah means to turn in repentance to Allah (S.W.T.). By turning away from ignorance and heading towards knowledge. By turning away from misguidance and become rightly guided. We should turn away from absent-mindedness and turn towards the remembrance of Allah (S.W.T.). AR RAHEEM means that Allah(S.W.T.) is most the Forgiving. The second meaning of Tau-bah is related to us that we are At-Tayyab, which means returning to Allah. At-tayyab means that Allah is infinitely turning towards us, just like the person who makes tau-bah turns toward Allah (S.W.T.). By Allah (S.W.T.) calling himself At-tayyab means he is turning towards the person who is coming towards him.

  So guys this is the end of my blog. Stay tuned for my daily Ramadan blogs. May Allah accept all our sincere repentance toward the middle 10 days of Ramadan. Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters. Peace and Stay Halal :D <3  

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Day 9 of Ramadan Blogs: The Wisdom Behind Fasting

                          The Wisdom Behind Fasting

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters today is the 9th day of Ramadan. We have almost completed 1/3 of Ramadan. Today I will like to discuss about the wisdom and benefits behind fasting. A lot of people don't know the benefits about fasting and how good it is for a persons body and soul. But, before I start to talk about the wisdom and benefits I will like to share a hadith with you guys: Abdullah Ibn Amr Ibn Al'As (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said "The biggest sins are To join others in worship with Allah (S.W.T.), to be un-dutiful to one's parents, to kill someone unlawfully;and to take an oath" (Hadith). Now I will discuss the wisdom and benefits behind fasting.

 The goal behind fasting is to keep the soul away from desires and to prevent it from those things which are beloved to it. It's purpose it to control the soul's strength, so it can prepare to attain what's found in the fast to success and joy for the soul. Throughout the fast, one holds his hunger and thirst and it is reminded of the condition of the hungriest among-st the needy people. Throughout fasting one narrows downs bad deeds that Shaytaan has lead the servant of Allah (S.W.T.). Also, it prevents the forces of the limbs from getting too accustomed to things that are harmful for us in this world and the hereafter. Each of the souls body limbs and energy can seize our rebelliousness to Allah (S.W.T.) and those who fear and obey Allah (S.W.T.) and the shield of those which war against desires. It is a garden for the righteous and devouted servant of Allah (S.W.T.). Fasting is for the Lord of the Worlds over all other actions done to please him. This is since the person who fasts, does nothing he only abandons his desires and food for the sake of those things that the soul loves and desires preferring Allah's (S.W.T.) and it is a secret kept between the servant and his Lord, and no one else is aware of it. Fasting has an beautiful effect and preserving one's outer limbs and inner capacities. As well as protecting the soul from being overtaken by destructive components. Fasting has a remarkable effect in causing all harmful things that returns the soul from being healthy to be emptied. So fasting guards and protects body limbs, and it returns the soul all that the from the greatest way to improve ones Taqwa (God's consciousness). As Allah (S.W.T.) says "O, you who believe fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, in order that you attain Taqwa (God's consciousness). So fasting is actually is to fear Allah so you can do good in life.

 So guys this is the end of my blog. Thank you for reading. May Allah (S.W.T.) give us tawfeeq to understand and practice fasting. Stay tune for my daily Ramadan blogs. Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters. Peace and Stay Halal :D <3

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Day 8 of Ramadan Blog: Treasures of this World

                         Treasures of this World

 Assalaam Alaikum my dear brother sisters, Today is the 8th Ramadan, we have completed one whole week of fasting. 7 down and 23 more to go. Today I will like to discuss the treasures of this world and how they can deceive us and how we should be careful with them to make sure our deen (religion) on the right track. This is an important topic because today generation is all about materialism and unfortunately not a lot of us know how to get to attached to materialistic items. Of course we have to be materialistic at times but we need to know when it is limit and how to balance our life without materialism. But, before I discuss about the deception of the treasures of this world I will like to share a hadith: Abu Dharr (RA) narrated that The Prophet (PBUH) said "If anyone keeps fast for three days every month then that is perpetual fasting. Indeed, Allah (S.W.T.) revealed a confirmation of that in His Book. (Whoever comes with a good deed, receives ten times as much. (Quran:6:10). So each is like ten days" (Hadith). Now I will begin to discuss about the treasures of this world.

  I will discuss about a warning and an advise from Abu Dharr (RA). Abu Nu'aym (RA) mentioned in his book 'Al-Hilyat-Al-Awliya wa Tabagat Al Ashya'. Someone asked Abu Dharr (RA) "Oh, Abu Dharr Why do people leave your company upset every time they visit you?" Abu Dharr (RA) replied "They leave upset because I warn them against gathering together the treasures of this world". This hadith has been narrated by Sufyaan Ath Thawree (RA). Abu Dharr (RA) said " Oh, people I am jandablul ghufani, come here and listen to good advice of your compassionate older brother". Immediately people stopped what they were doing and started to listen what Abu Dharr (RA) had to say. Then Abu Dharr (RA) started his speech "Do you see when one of you plans to travel, doesn't he prepare himself to take with him the needed provisions that will suffice him until he reaches his destination?" The people replied "Indeed, he does". Then Abu Dharr (RA) continued to what he had to say "The Road to the day of judgement is the furthest of your ultimate destinations. Take with you what benefits you most". The people asked "What do you consider most beneficial for such a journey?" Abu Dharr (RA)  replied by saying "Make Hajj to Makkah for your dire needs, fast in the hottest day in contemplation, of the horrific age old standing of the day of resurrection. Pray 2 rakah (prayers) in the darkness of the night in contemplation's of one's bewilderment, loneliness and darkness of the grave. Either say something good or stay silent. Pondering on awesome age long standing in the horrific silence of the day of resurrection spend your money in charity so perhaps you can escape its trials. "Make this world a setting for 2 types of conferences: 1) seek the benefits of the hereafter 2) seek what is permissible, should there be a third criteria of meetings they will be of harm and no benefits to you. Finally, look at your money and divide it into 2 categories: 1) one dirham you spend on family 2) spend for your benefits in the hereafter and should there be left a third dirham it will be of harm and no benefit to you". Abu Dharr (RA) then shouted at the top of his voice and said "Oh, people your craving to accumulate what is beyond your reach will destroy you".

 So, guys this is the end of my blog. Stay tune for my daily Ramadan Blogs. May Allah (S.W.T.) protect us from craving to accumulate what is beyond our reach. I am a photographer so follow my Instagram and Facebook to see my work. Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters and May Allah (S.W.T.) give you the strength to complete the fast. Peace :D and Stay Halal

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Day 7 of Ramadan Blog: Your Story with Allah(S.W.T.)

                                 Your Story with Allah

 Aslaam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters today is the 7th day of Ramadan, MaShAllah we have fasted for a week already and in a couple of weeks this blessed month will be long gone. Today I will discuss about our connection and story with Allah (S.W.T.) and how we can rebuild it during this month. Also, I will like to discuss an important issue our Ummah is facing and how we can fix it. But, before I talk all about that I will like to share a hadith:"Abou Said (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) No one will enter the Paradise except by the mercy of Allah. The companions said Not even you, O Messenger of Allah?" The Prophet (PBUH) said Not even me, unless Allah covers me with mercy". And he gestured with his hand above his head" (Hadith). Now I will like to discuss about how we can rebuild our connection with Allah (S.W.T.)

 

The first step in Ramadan is knowing the story between you and Allah (S.W.T.). This is a person's personal story with Allah (S.W.T.). These stories are filled with the times when we have worshiped to Allah (S.W.T.) and the connection we have maintained with our Lord. However, sometimes people like that their losing their story and the mercy and blessing of Allah (S.W.T.). When you wake up and you feel that you have no purpose and when you go to sleep feeling like that you are unsatisfied with your life. Then, my brothers and sisters think about what you are doing with your life and implement change. Then the blessed month of Ramadan arrives and gives us the opportunity to get the Barakah (blessings) back. We should all think about our personal stories with Allah (S.W.T.) including myself. We have to think about the ups and downs, from the beginning through the end. When you think about your stories ask these questions to yourselves and see what your story with Allah is. It is important because it allows you to ask your yourself and let's you evaluate your Iman (spiritual belief). Also, to know what brought you to this point in your Iman (spiritual belief), which Muslims tend to reflect on and evaluate during Ramadan. But, it is also important to reflect and evaluate before Ramadan as well. Allah (S.W.T.) says in the Quran "He will not change the condition of a person unless there is a change of what is in themselves". In order to know what that change is we need to think about where our Iman (spiritual belief) is leading, are we on the right way or are we doing the opposite. There are several questions to ask and answer and reflect on the answers you have written for each question. 

Here are the questions a person should ask themselves to see where their story is leading:

1) How did your story begin with Allah? When was the first time you actually truly felt connected to Allah (S.W.T.)

2) How does your current chapter read? What is the current level of your Iman (spiritual belief).

3) How do you want your story to end? What is your ultimate goal with Allah (S.W.T.).

4) What has been the highlights and down-times since last Ramadan?

5) Do you think Allah is pleased with where you are at this stage in your life?

Think about these questions deeply and there is no need to share your answers its for you and how to build your connection with Allah (S.W.T.) and to recharge your Iman (spiritual belief). Think of this as your planner of your Iman (spiritual belief).

 Now I will like to discuss some of the problems in this Ummah that we face and needs to be fixed ASAP before it causes a lot of damage. A problem that Muslims face are the misconceptions and stereotypes because the acts of certain individuals who identify themselves as Muslims. The Muslims are not only facing problems from other religions but they are facing problems within their own people at times. We are an Ummah (community) and we should deal with our problems and become more humble just worship God.As humans we need to be open minded and understanding but sometimes a person becomes close minded because of their surroundings or lack of understanding their community.At the same time within the Muslim communities there can be a lot of prejudices within people from different culture and backgrounds. Within the Muslim Ummah we are facing toward because of problems of what we are and what our purposes are in our community. In Islamic history Muslims were open-minded and were kind to other cultures and religion, but now days the Ummah is becoming prejudice. For instance that an Arab cannot marry a non-Arab or the person has to marry the same caste as the person so it doesn’t create a “problem” for the couple later on in life. But in Islam Allah told us we can marry anyone we want as long as their Muslim, regardless of wherever they came from. Our Prophet himself had wives that had different backgrounds. We need to fix this problem in the Ummah and then we can fix the outside problem such as terrorism and hatred towards us. The day we stand up to the evil and show what Muslims truly are there will be an end of all the hatred between us. But, in order for that to happen we need to stop hating each other and stop acting like we are divided, we are one Ummah don't forget.

My prayers go out to the victims in the gay nightclub in Orlando and May Allah protect everyone and let's hope this heinous crime doesn't happen again. The shooter who did this was a bad man and as a Muslim I don't believe he is a Muslim and part of Islam. He has no religion, a person who kills innocent people I think they are disgusting and need to be ban. These people who do these crimes should never associate themselves as Christians, Jews, Muslims or any other religion because no religion teaches the killings of innocent.

Stay tune for of my blogs. Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters. Peace and Stay Halal :D <3

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Day 6 of Ramadan: 3 Great Acts of Worship

                                  3 Great Acts of Worship

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters. I apologize for posting my blog late today. But, Alhumdillah we have done 6 days of fasting already, 6 down, 24 to go. Today, I will like to discuss 3 great acts of worship, which are generosity, charity and excellence of feeding a fasting person. But, before getting more in-depth with this topic, I will like to share a hadith: Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said "Whoever says SubhanAllah Alhumdillah La ilaha illa Allah Allahu Akbar it is planted for each of these words as a tree in paradise" (Hadith). Now I will like to discuss the 3 great acts.

 The Prophet (PBUH) became even more generous during Ramadan, than he already was. Ramadan is the time for generosity and giving. It is the time we think about the less fortunate than us. We also thank Allah (S.W.T.) for everything he has given us. Ramadan is an honorable and blessed month and the reward of generosity is multiplied in it. The Prophet (PBUH) said "The best charity is given in Ramadan" (Hadith). This hadith has been reported by Imam Tirmdhi (RA). The Prophet (PBUH) further said "Whoever feeds a fasting person will have a reward like that of a fasting person without any reduction in his reward" (Hadith). This hadith has been reported by Imam Ahmad (RA) and An Nasai. Sheikh ul Islam Ibn Taymiyah (RA) said "What is mean by giving iftaar is giving him enough to satisfy him". We should get into the habit of giving and helping those who are less fortunate than us. We should give whenever we can and what we can afford as Allah (SWT) can see our intentions. Surely, we will regret in the Hereafter of what we didn't do to get on the right track for Allah's path.

  The righteous salafs (Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)) always provided food for others and they believed that this was one of the best and righteous deeds. Many of the salafs (Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)) used to give up either iftaar such as Abdullah Ibn Umar (RA), Dawud Al Dae, Malik Ibn Dinar and Ahmed Ibn Humbal (RA). Ibn Umar (RA) used to only break his fast with orphans and the poor. They were also among those who offer food to their brothers while fasting and they would sit and serve them. "Men from the tribe of Banu Abi used to pray in the masjid and not one of them would break their fast on their own. They would break their fast if they found someone to join them they would eat with them. Otherwise they would take their food out to to the masjid and eat with the people, and the people will eat with them. From that you have worshiped, by providing food to others. There are other worships such as creating love and friendship towards those who are giving the food, which means entering Jannah. The Prophet (PBUH) said "You will not truly enter until you truly believe and you will not truly believe until you love one another" (Hadith). This hadith has been recorded by Imam Musum (RA)  . It also practices a person of sitting with righteous people and seeing the reward by helping them to do acts of worship from which they gain strength.

 So guys this will be the end of my 6th blog, SubhanAllah the Sahabs were amazing people that have done so many righteous deeds and did things above and beyond. May Allah give us Tawfeeq to become more generous and give charity, also tawfeeeq to feed a person who is fasting. Stay tune for my daily Ramadan blogs. Please share and comment if you guys like it and have more ideas. Aslaam Alaikum my brothers and sisters. Peace and Stay Halal.

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Day 5 of Ramadan: The Rare Deed

                                   The Rare Deed

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters. Alhumdillah today is the 5th day of Ramadan and it is the First Friday. We have done 4 only 26 more to go.  Today I will discuss about a rare deed that is so easy but unfortunately not a lot of people do it because someone is distracting them. One of human weakness is distraction we are easily distracted by our surroundings when we are not focused or motivated. Before I share what this rare deed I will like to share hadith about Fridays: Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Verily, in Paradise there is a market the people will come to every Friday. The north wind will blow and scatter fragrance on their faces and clothes and will add to their beauty and loveliness. They will return to their families having been increased in beauty and loveliness. Their families will say: By Allah, you have increased in beauty and loveliness after leaving us. They will say: By Allah, you have increased in beauty and loveliness after we have returned" (Hadith, Sahih). Now I will begin to discuss about the rare deed.

  The Prophet (PBUH) reported to have said "There are two characteristics that whenever the Muslim maintains then will enter Jannah. The two traits are easy to possess, however only a few people acquire them. The Prophet (PBUH) said say SubhanAllah 10 times, Alhumdillah 10 times, and Allahu Akbar 10 times at the end of each Salah (prayer)". "By doing this deed a person will get 150 rewards for their to tongue, and 1500 for good deeds on the scale. Also, before going to sleep say SubhanAllah 33 times, Alhumdillah 33 times and Allahu Akbar 34 times. By saying this before going to sleep you gain 100 good deeds for your tongue and 1000 deeds for the scale". Sahabas (RA) asked "Ya Rasulallah (PBUH) How is that these deeds are easy yet a few people do them?" Prophet (PBUH) replied by  saying "Right after a person finishes praying, Shaytaan comes to him and reminds him of something that he has to do. Therefore this person gets up and leaves without saying these words. Additionally, when he lies in his bed, Shaytaan comes to him and causes him to fall asleep before he mentions these words". Abdullah ibn Amr Alas (RA) said "I saw the Prophet (PBUH) say these words using his hand to count them". This hadith has been mentioned by Imam Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmdhi, Nisa'i and Ahmad.

  The benefits from this hadith is first the invocations and the mentions of Allah's names are a means for that servant to enter Jannah. Good deeds are multiplied by 10 or more. The scale is a fact, counting the qualification of Allah is done using the hands. Also, the Shaytaan is persistent with his worshipers and the son of Adam (AS) during prayer and at bed time because these are the times a person can get easily distracted. This is the end of my 5th blog. I ask Allah (S.W.T.) to extend his mercy and allow us to practice this deed daily and specially during Ramadan because Shaytaan is locked and no one will be able to distract you. Stay tune for more of my blogs. Assalam Alaikum. Stay Halal and Peace :D <3

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Ramadan Day 4: Overeating During Ramadan

                               Overeating During Ramadan

  Assalam Alaikum my dear brother sisters, Alhumdillah we have reached Day 4 of Ramadan, 3 down and 27 more to go. Today I will like to share a reminder first to myself then to you guys, it is about overeating during Ramadan. I feel this very important for nowadays especially for us young people because we love food so much and sometimes we don't know how to restrain from it and often leads to unhealthy choices. But, before I talk about this reminder and share an example I will like to share a hadith I have read today: "Abou Said Al Khoudn (may Allah be pleased with him) said the Prophet (PBUH) said Allah frees some people from hell fire every day and night during Ramadan and every Muslim has an answered supplication every day and night of Ramadan" (Hadith). Ma Sha Allah what a hadith, this is one of the reasons why this month is so blessed and filled with forgiveness. Now I will like to discuss about the matter of overeating.

 Miqdam ibn Ma'd reported "I heard the Prophet (PBUH) say no human ever filled a vessel worse than the stomach sufficient for any son of Adam are some morsels to keep his back straight. It if then must be then one third for his food, one third for his drink and one third for his praying (salah). This hadith has been written by Ahmed, Tirmidhu, Nasai and Ibn Majah. A person should not overeat when its time for iftaar/iftaari. This is the problem of nowadays we like to consume too much will all the fry stuff and all these unhealthy food. Now I am not saying do not eat pakoras or samosas I am trying to say we should consume less of it and keep it on the moderate level, even for healthy food. Because too much food whether healthy or unhealthy is never good for a persons health. Before we open iftaar/iftaari we prepare so much thinking that we will be so hungry since we haven't eating for 14 hours or more. Then, when its time to open iftaar/iftaari we barely finish half the things we have made and it has all gone to waste and we have wasted all that food. Allah (S.W.T.) wants us to eat less, so we can feel how the unfortunate feel and concentrate on our prayers instead of food and filling up our belly. The point of fasting is to have more discipline in life, also to strength the soul with Taqwa (God's consciousness).

  By breaking your fast, by eating the amount of food you haven't eaten throughout the whole day. That means you gained nothing by fasting, you were just starving your stomach not your soul. Because if you were starving your soul it would have been satisfied by knowledge and Taqwa (God's consciousness) not food. One of the things you shouldn't do while fasting is sleeping until iftaar/iftaari because you still have gained no knowledge and Taqwa (God's consciousness). When you are weak you can concentrate more on your prayers and this will prevent shaytaan from approaching your heart and allowing you to look at whats in the kingdom of the hearts. Especially on the night of Laytul Qadr which I will discuss more in depth on the 27th day. Laytul Qadr is the night in which same kingdom is shown and this is what Allah (S.W.T.) meant. Allah (S.W.T.) has said "Indeed we have descended it on the night of Qadr, and whoever puts a barrier of food between his heart and chest. He will have a barrier put between himself and what is shown from his kingdom". By keeping your stomach free of food will not be enough to lift up this barrier but your mind has be to clear and think about the good things not the bad.

 Al Hasan Al Basri said "The test of Adam (AS) was food and it is your test until Qiyamah". One day Al Hasan Al Basri offered some food to his companion who said "I have eaten, until I am no longer able to eat". Al Hasan replied "SubhanAllah What does a Muslim eat until he is no longer able to eat. 

 This is the end of my 4th blog of this month. Remember to reduce the intake of your food, this is a reminder for first myself than you guys. May Allah give everyone the strength to complete your fast and to gain more Taqwa (God's consciousness) and knowledge. Assalam Alaikum my brothers and sisters. Don't forget to share and comment about what you think and what you will like to me to discuss in more of my blogs. Until then Peace :D <3

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Ramadan Day 3: A Dua from Jibreel(Gabriel)

                                    A Du'a From Jibreel(Gabriel)

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters, Alhumdillah today is the third day for Ramadan. 2 down 28 more days to go. Today I will like to share a du'a (supplication) Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) told the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) before he was going to give his khutbah (speech). I feel this is an important lesson for what du'a (supplication) Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) made. Before, I tell you the story I will like to share a hadith with you:"Sahl ibn Sa'd (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: the Prophet (PBUH) said Surely there is in paradise a gated called Rayyan. Those who fast will enter through it on the day of resurrection. No one else besides them will enter by it. When they have entered, it will be locked. He who enters, will drink. And he who drinks will never experience thirst" (Hadith). SubhanAllah what a beautiful hadith this is one of the blessings in the month of Ramadan. Now I will begin to share the story about the du'a (supplication) Jibreel made.

 One day as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was climbing his min-bar which are steps used as a platform for the Imam (leader) in the mosque. He climbed his min-bar so he can give the khutbah (speech) to the companions. The companions noticed that the Prophet (PBUH) did something strange that he has never done before. When the khutbah (speech) was done the companions approached the Prophet (PBUH) and they asked him what was the thing he did while he was climbing the min-bar. The thing he did was that the companions thought that it was unusual was, while he was climbing the min-bar he said Ameen. Since the Prophet's (PBUH) min-bar had three steps he said Ameen three times. When he climbed the first step of min-bar and said Ameen, the companions thought it was strange, because no one was talking to the Prophet and neither was he making any du'as (supplications). He repeated the same thing twice and the companions looked at each other and said "What is the Prophet (PBUH)?" After the third Ameen the Prophet (PBUH) started his khutbah (speech). The companions asked him "O' Messenger of Allah, you did something you don't usually do when you ascend the min-bar you said Ameen three times, what happened?" The Prophet (PBUH) replied "Yes, Jibreel came to me and he made du'a". Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) made three supplications. The first du'a (supplication) Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) said to the Prophet was "O' Muhammad (PBUH) anyone who lives to witness the month of Ramadan and he doesn't get all his sins forgiven! May Allah (S.W.T.) May he perish in the fire of hell. Say Ameen!" So the Prophet (PBUH) said Ameen. The second du'a (supplication) "O' Muhammad (PBUH) anyone who manages to catch Laytul Qadar (Night of Power) and he doesn't get his sins forgiven. May he perish in hell. Say Ameen!" So the Prophet (PBUH) replied Ameen. The third and last du'a (supplication) "O' Muhammad (PBUH) anyone who manages to catch his parents when they are elderly and they need his help and he is not able to service them properly and get his sins forgiven. May he perish in hell. Say Ameen!" So the Prophet (PBUH) said Ameen.

 These are the three golden opportunities that a person shouldn't miss during Ramadan. Some of you may think it is extreme but it is not because if you think about Ramadan is about the month of forgiveness and changing yourself and if Allah (S.W.T.) is giving you the chance to change yourself while the Shaytaan (Devil) who always tempt the person to sin is locked, why not take that chance to change yourself. The parents one everyone should take of their parents just like when they took care of you when you were younger. They stayed up all night when you were sick, they made food for you even when you were sick, also they made you choose the right choice, so when they are old it should be your duty to help them just like they did to you.

 So guys, this is the end of my third blog. Stay tuned for more of my blogs for more stories about Ramadan. If you have any ideas please comment and Don't forget to Share. Assalam Alaikum my brothers and sisters and May you have the strength to complete your fast.

Peace :D <3

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Day 2 of Ramadan: A Story of A Man Who Changed During Ramadan

               A Thief Who Changed During Ramadan

 Assalam Alaikum my dear brothers and sisters, we have reached Day 2 of this blessed month. 1 down 29 more to go. Today, I will like to share a story I heard last night while I was watching an Islamic video on YouTube. I believe the story is amazing and very valuable. It is about a man who repented to Allah (S.W.T.) and changed into a good person. Often, people think that when they sin Allah(S.W.T.) will never forgive them and then to begin to believe they are a bad person. But, Allah (S.W.T.) is the Most Merciful and Forgiving He will forgive and forget no matter what you did. I will like to share Hadith which mentions how forgiving Allah(S.W.T.) is:

"O son of Adam, as long as you call upon Me and put your hope in Me, I have forgiven you for what you have done and I do not mind. O son of Adam, if your sins were to reach the clouds of the sky and then you would seek My forgiveness, I would forgive you. O son of Adam, if you were to come to Me with sins that are close to filling the earth and then you would meet Me without ascribing any partners with Me, I would certainly bring to you forgiveness close to filling it.(40 Hadith Qudsi).

 I will like to share story with you guys know it is about a thief and a man name Malik Bin Dinar. The thief went to Malik Bin Dinar's house in the night to find something to steal and claim as his treasure. When the thief went inside he didn't find anything worth stealing and was disappointed. Malik Bin Dinar was performing his Salah (prayer) he realized that he had an unexpected guess in his house so he quickly finished his Salah (prayer). Malik Bin Dinar faced the thief he expressed no fear and instead of getting angry and threatening him. Instead he said Salaam (greetings) to him very calmly and said to the thief "My Brother, May Allah (S.W.T.) forgive you. You entered my house and found nothing worth taking, yet I do not want you to leave without taking away some benefits". Malik Bin Dinar left the room for a moment and he came back with a jug filled with water in his hand. He then told the thief "Make Ablution (Wu'du) and perform 2 units (rakah) of prayer. If you do so you will leave my house with a greater treasure than you had initially sought". The thief agreed because he wanted the greater treasure that was his purpose for the night. After doing the Wu'du (Ablution) and praying his 2 rakah (units) he replied "Oh, Malik would you mind if I stay for a while for I want to stay to perform 2 more rakahs (units) of prayer". Malik replied 'Stay for whatever amount of prayer Allah Decrees for you to perform now". The thief decided to stay the whole night and he spent the whole night in prayers. The next morning Malik said to him "Leave now and be good". The thief didn't want to leave and he asked Malik permission if he can stay for one more day because he made an intention to fast. 

 Malik Bin Dinar said "Stay as long as you wish". The thief stayed for a couple of days and kept Malik Bin Dinar company. The thief would pray during the late hours of nigh and fast during the day. When the thief decided to stay farewell to Malik Bin Dinar he said to Malik "Oh Malik, I have made a firm resolve to repent for my sins and for my former way of life". Malik then replied "That is in the hands of Allah (S.W.T.). After that the thief truly changed, he became a better person and lead a righteous life and became obedient to Allah (S.W.T.).  One day the thief who repented met a fellow thief asked him if he got his treasure. He said to the man "My Brother what I found is Malik Bin Dinar. I went to steal from him but it was he who ended up stealing my heart. I have indeed repented to Allah (S.W.T.) and I will remain at the door of his mercy and forgiveness until I achieve what his obedient loving slaves have achieved".

 Ma Sha Allah what a story of how one night has changed a man's life and he became and had no regrets. I believe this story has so many lessons that we can learn. One of them is to learn how to help people and not to judge them. As you can see how calmly Malik acted with the thief that he changed his heart. Malik had a lot of patience to have a stranger in his house as now a days people will take it as a burden. But he didn't. So guys this is the end of my second blog. In Sha Allah tomorrow I will find another story that will be beneficial and that occurred during Ramadan. Comment what you think about the story and if you have anything else to share. As for now Assalam Alaikum my brothers and sisters and be strong.

 Peace :D <3

Day 1 of Ramadan 2016

                        The Beginning of Ramadan 

 Assalam Alaikum everyone, Alhumdillah today was the first day of Ramadan and we have approached the blessed month. I will like to tell you some information about the month of Ramadan and why this month is very important to Muslims. Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and this is the month were Allah (SWT) revealed the Quran to Muhammad (PBUH) through the Angel Jibraeel (Gabriel) on the night of Laytul Qadar (Night of Power) which is on the 27th day of Ramadan. I will further discuss about Laytul Qadar on the 27th day. During this month Muslims abstain from eating,drinking,smoking,sex,anger and all sinful behaviors or that is one bad for oneself and others. Muslims don't eat till sunset. Muslims keep their fast by having breakfast in the morning called suhoor/sehri and stop eating before the morning prayer, Fajr. Then, we open our fast when it is sunset which is known as Iftar/Iftaari before the evening prayer which is known as Maghreb.

 The purpose of Ramadan is to reconnect with the book of Allah which is the Quran. As you know a lot of people lose their connection from their Creator, so this will be a good month to start reconnecting and making the bond more stronger with your Lord. It's also the month were a person tries there best to become a better person and become more humble and to get rid of all of the bad habits. In the month of Ramadan people often let go of their ego and anger and ask forgiveness for the people they have wronged. Ramadan also shows what potential a Muslim person has , so they can change their life in a good way. As you know people sin whether its big or small; we all sin its part of human nature and that's how a person grows, by their mistakes. In this month the Shaytaan (Devil) is locked for the whole month, so he can't tempt to sin. It makes a person realizes that when he/she sins are they doing it through their own actions or are they really being tempted by Shaytaan (Devil). Also, we learn how people with no food or water feel, by that we gain sympathy. It makes you feel the hunger and thirst that millions of people face today.

 In this month we reflect what is in the Quran so the person's heart can become pure and be filled with knowledge and try to contribute that knowledge through societal issues. That's why there is a special prayer known as Taraweeh which Muslims pray every night between the time of Isha and Fajr prayer. It is an obligatory prayer during Ramadan and it is highly suggested to pray in congregation. The Imam (leader in the Mosque) will recite a Surah (Chapter) during the prayer and will take breaks which is known as rukho. In this month it is highly suggested to finish the Quran since it is month based and have more emphasize of the Quran. That's why there is taraweeh because the Imam (leader of the Mosque) reads all the Surahs (Chapters) in the Quran. I will like to share a hadith about the Taraweeh prayer:

Narrated Abu Salama bin 'Abdur Rahman: that he asked 'Aisha "How was the prayer of Allah's Apostle in Ramadan?" She replied, "He did not pray more than eleven Rakat in Ramadan or in any other month. He used to pray four Rakat ---- let alone their beauty and length----and then he would pray four ----let alone their beauty and length ----and then he would pray three Rakat (Witr)." She added, "I asked, 'O Allah's Apostle! Do you sleep before praying the Witr?' He replied, 'O 'Aisha! My eyes sleep but my heart does not sleep." 

This is the end of my first blog. Stay tuned for more of my blogs about Ramadan. Peace and Assalam Alaikum Everyone :D <3