What's the ruling on celebrating anniversaries, like wedding anniversary. Note: I don't mean celebrating in the sense of throwing a large party and stuff. Just an in-house thing with your hubby or you two going out to have a nice time together. is this permissible?

If the husband and his wife want do something(acceptable in the Sharia) to make each other happy, it should be done at any other time or on any appropriate occasion or when there is a reason for doing so. They should not wait for the anniversary of their wedding to make each other happy or exchange gift, because that implies that they are taking this day as an “Eid” (an occasion that is celebrated regularly), and there are no annual Eids for the Muslims except Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. These occasions – wedding anniversaries – came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and his companions, and the salaf (early generations) of this ummah and its imams, but there is no report that they used to do any celebration with their wives or anybody on these days. And all goodness is to be found in following them.

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (may Allaah have mercy on him) was asked: is it permissible for the husband to give a gift to his wife on their wedding anniversary each year, as a renewal of the love between them, noting that this anniversary will be marked only by the giving of this gift and that the couple are not going to celebrate this occasion?

He said:

What I think is that this should not be done, because this year it may be just a gift, but next year it may become a celebration. Moreover, marking this occasion with a gift is regarded as making it an ‘Eid’, because the Eid is that which is repeated. Love does not need to be renewed every year, rather it should be renewed all the time, every time the woman sees something of her husband that makes her happy, and every time the man sees something of his wife that makes him happy, then the love between them will be renewed.
Allaah knows best.

Yes.I am ready for marriage.That is why I'm seeking advice.I don't mean courtship as in dating.I mean courtship as in trying to know eachother.
Please, I need advice on xritical areas to consider;things to look out for and questions to ask.Please help me out.

May Allaah continue to guide our steps. I will suggest you also get a 3-book series covering various aspects of marriage according to the authentic Sunnah:- 1.The Quest for love and Mercy-Regulations for Marriage and Wedding in Islaam.
2.Closer than a Garment-Marital intimacy According to the Pure Sunnah.
3.The Fragile Vessels-Rights and Obligations between the Spouses in Islaam.
The books were written by muhammad al-Jibaly and they are very good books. I think each costs about 300 naira.

I want 2 ask dem 'muslim women' a questn even though am not one.y do y'al wear dis long dres dat covers your head,ears,neck down 2 your knees.dat aside,u wil even wear long skirt.infact some go as fas as wearing black socks even in d heat.sometyms i feel sory 4 dem.hey dnt get me wrong.am nt a fan of indecent dresing bt i min,dnt u tink dose cloths r 2 much just 4 a persn,especialy durin hot seasn.i wana know d reasn 4 such funy dresin n y d socks

Women often have been used as objects of pleasure, means of entertainment, and material for advertising.Million of thanx to Muslim Women who have distinguished themselves esp with the way they dress.

Throughout history religion has been abused and misunderstood. Some people use it as a means of exploitation and suppression, as a pretext for prejudice and persecution. Some other people use it as a source of power and domination over the elite and the
masses alike. In the name of religion unjustifiable wars have been launched, freedom of thought and conscience has been oppressed, science has been persecuted, the right of the individual to maturity has been denied, and man’ s dignity and honour have been
flagrantly debased. And in the name of religion an injustice has been inflicted upon humanity with the result that religion itself has suffered many losses. These are historical facts which no one can deny. But is this the proper function of religion or the right approach to religion?
Could this be the purpose of religion? The indisputable answer is an emphatic no. There are many religions in the world, and
each one claims to be the one and only true religion. Each religion is supposed to have come from God for the right guidance of man. But these claims contradict each other and have caused dissensions among people and vehement reactions to religion – instead of welding mankind into one universal brotherhood under the One Universal Benevolent God. This situation makes any neutral observer confused and perhaps averse to all kinds of religion.
But, come to think of it, could it be possible that Islam, whose light ended the Dark Ages in Europe, now propound the advent of an age of terror? Could a faith that has over 1.2 billion followers the word over, and 7 million in America, actually advocate the killing and maiming of innocent people? Could Islam, whose name itself stands for “peace” and “submission to Allah”, encourage its adherents to work for death and destruction?
For too long, we have relied on images in the popular media for answers to these pertinent questions. It is important we look at the sources of Islam.
Islam considers all life forms as sacred. However, the sanctity of human life is accorded a special place. The first and foremost basic right of a human being is the right to live. The Qur’an says: “…if anyone killed a person not in retaliation of murder, or(and) to spread mischief in the land- it would be as if he killed all mankind, and if anyone save a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind.”[Qur’an Chapter 5 verse 32]
Such is the value of a single human life, that the Qur’an equates the taking of a single human life unjustly, with killing of all humanity. Thus, the Qur’an prohibits homicide in clear terms. The taking of a criminal’s life by the state in order to administer justice is required to uphold the rule of law, and the peace and security of the society. Only a proper and competent court can decide whether an individual has forfeited his right to life by his disregard of the right to life and peace of other human beings.
So, get it clear, religion (Islam) does not enslave but liberates people. If any Muslim is reported to have destroy a person’s life, it is either a baseless propaganda against Islam or the Muslim in question does not understand the teachings of Islam.

My sister, whoever has said that needs to provide evidence for it. The Standing Committee was asked:
What is the ruling on a woman removing hair from her body; if it is permissible, then who is allowed to do that for her? They answered:
It is permissible for her (to remove) everything except her eyebrows and the hair on her head; it is not permissible for her to remove those, or to remove anything from the eyebrows whether by shaving or any other means. She, her husband or one of her mahrams may do that for her, with regard to the parts of the body that they are permitted to see; or another woman may do that, with regard to the parts of the body that she is permitted to see. This is by
‘Abd al-‘Azeez ibn Baaz, ‘Abd al-Razzaaq ‘Afeefi, ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Ghadyaan, ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Qa’ood
Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 5/194

@Nanai

Please put me in your duas.Please pray for me. I desperately need it. I have a huge problem saying what's on my mind and I hope that as time goes on I'll be able to share my problem but there's really not much advice can do for me. What I need is your prayers. I'm praying for all of you.

Sorry for this late reply; I've been away for sometime. I pray, as all bros and sis have been praying that Allaah help you solve the problem. Beside prayer, I feel advice too may help. Great relief can come to a person afflicted with difficulties if he can try to talk it out. Unburdening one’s heart with loyal and sincere Muslim friends is one of the means of obtaining relief from grief and mental tension. Persons in a state of grief must be given the opportunity to relieve their inward tensions by talking about their hardships to conscious Muslim friends in order to get useful advice.
By the time one starts to talk it out to the close friend, he may begin to calm down. At the end of the talk, the person may feel relieved. Has the problem been solved? No, not yet. What can cause the actual relief is getting a little advice and a little human feeling and sympathy. Moreover, when we talk it out, we gain a little better insight into our troubles, and get a perspective. No one knows the whole answer. But all of us know that “spitting it out” or “getting it off our chest” brings almost instant relief.
Thus, if you are unhappy and distressed by your conduct and condition, confide your difficulty to someone that you rely upon and who is a Muslim. Keeping a painful thought, fear, or anxiety to oneself only makes it more persistent and bothersome. Express your secret thought and seek advice from a wise and experienced Muslim. Fear and bad thoughts dwindle and disappear on confronting people. Troublesome thoughts that are consigned to the unconscious will always remain an impediment between us and our mental peace and happiness. Again, may Allaah answer your prayer.

You can use this beautiful name of ALLAH to ask him for what you want. . .

may he grant us all our heart wishes, Ameen!

May Allaah grant our requests. I think it's also pertinent we make good use of times and places where prayer is answered. There follows a summary thereof:
1 – Laylat al-Qadar. It was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah asked the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “If I know what night is Laylat al-Qadar, what should I say during it?” He said: “Say: Allaahumma innaka ‘afuwwan tuhibb ul-‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni (O Allaah, You are forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me).”
2 – Du’aa’ in the depths of the night, the time before dawn, the time when Allaah descends to bestow His bounty upon His slaves, to meet their needs and to relieve their distress, when He says: “Who will call upon Me, that I may answer Him? Who will ask of Me, that I may give him? Who will seek My forgiveness, that I may forgive him?” narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1145.
3 – Following the prescribed prayers. According to the hadeeth of Abu Umaamah, it was said: “O Messenger of Allaah, which du’aa’ is heard?” He said: “In the last third of the night, and following the prescribed prayers.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 3499; classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi.
There was some difference of scholarly opinion concerning the phrase dabr al-salawaat al-maktoobah (“following the prescribed prayers”) – does it mean before the salaam or afterwards?
Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah and his student Ibn al-Qayyim were of the view that it is before the salaam. Ibn Taymiyah said: “The word dabr refers to something that is part of a thing, like dabr al-haywaan (the hindquarters of an animal).” Zaad al-Ma’aad, 1.305. Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said: “What has been narrated of du’aa’ following the prayer is before the salaam and what has been narrated of dhikr following the prayer is after the salaam, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“When you have finished As-Salaah (the congregational prayer), remember Allaah standing, sitting down, and (lying down) on your sides”
[al-Nisa’ 4:103]
See: Kitaab al-Du’aa’ by Shaykh Muhammad al-Hamad, p. 54
4 – Between the adhaan and the iqaamah. It is narrated in a saheeh report that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “A du’aa’ offered between the adhaan and iqaamah is not rejected.” Narrated by Abu Dawood (521) and al-Tirmidhi (212). See also Saheeh al-Jaami’, 2408.
5 – When the call for the prescribed prayers is given and when the ranks are drawn up for battle, as it says in the marfoo’ hadeeth of Sahl ibn Sa’d: “There are two that will not be rejected, or will rarely be rejected: du’aa’ at the time of the call for prayer and at the time of battle when the fighting begins.” Narrated by Abu Dawood; it is a saheeh report. See Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3079.
6 – When rain falls, as it said in the hadeeth of Sahl ibn Sa’d that is attributed to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him): “There are two which will not be rejected: du’aa’ at the time of the call (to prayer) and when it is raining.” Narrated by Abu Dawood and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’ (3078).
7 – At a certain time of the night, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “During the night there is a time when the Muslim does not ask for the good of this world and the Hereafter but it will be given to him, and that happens every night.” Narrated by Muslim, 757.
8 – A certain time on Friday. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) mentioned Friday and said: “During it there is a time when a Muslim slave does not stand and pray and ask Allaah for something, but He will give it to him,” and he gestured with his hand to indicate how short that time is. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 935; Muslim, 852. See also question no. 21748.
9 – When drinking Zamzam water. It was narrated from Jaabir (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Zamzam water is for that for which it is drunk.” Narrated by Ahmad and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 5502.
10 – When prostrating. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The closest that a person is to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so say a great deal of du’aa’ then.” Narrated by Muslim, 482.
11 – When hearing the crowing of a rooster, because of the hadeeth: “When you hear the crowing of a rooster, ask Allaah of His bounty, for he has seen an angel.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2304; Muslim, 2729.
12 – When saying the du’aa’, “Laa ilaaha illa anta, subhaanaka, inni kuntu min al-zaalimeen ([none has the right to be worshipped but You (O Allaah)], Glorified (and Exalted) be You [above all that (evil) they associate with You]! Truly, I have been of the wrongdoers – cf al-Anbiya’ 21:87]).” It was narrated in a saheeh hadeeth that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The prayer of Dhu’l-Noon (Yoonus) which he said when he was in the belly of the whale: ‘Laa ilaaha illa anta, subhaanaka, inni kuntu min al-zaalimeen ([none has the right to be worshipped but You (O Allaah)], Glorified (and Exalted) be You [above all that (evil) they associate with You]! Truly, I have been of the wr

ongdoers.’ No Muslim recites this du’aa’ concerning any matter but Allaah will answer him.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi and classed as saheeh in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3383.
In his commentary on the passage (interpretation of the meaning):
“And (remember) Dhun Noon (Jonah), when he went off in anger, and imagined that We shall not punish him (i.e. the calamities which had befallen him)! But he cried through the darkness (saying): Laa ilaaha illa Anta [none has the right to be worshipped but You (O Allaah)], Glorified (and Exalted) be You [above all that (evil) they associate with You]! Truly, I have been of the wrongdoers.”
88. So We answered his call, and delivered him from the distress. And thus We do deliver the believers (who believe in the Oneness of Allaah, abstain from evil and work righteousness)”
[al-Anbiya’ 21:87-88]
Al-Qurtubi said: In this verse, Allaah stipulates that whoever calls upon Him, He will answer him as He answered and saved Dhu’l-Noon (Yoonus). This is what is meant by the words “And thus We do deliver the believers”.
Al-Jaami’ li Ahkaam il-Qur’aan, 11/334.
13 – If a calamity befalls him and he says, Inna Lillaahi wa inna ilayhi raaji’oon, Allaahumma ujurni fi museebati w'ukhluf li khayran minha (Truly, to Allaah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return; O Allaah, reward me in this calamity and compensate me with something better than it). It was narrated by Muslim in his Saheeh (918) that Umm Salamah said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “There is no calamity that befalls one of the Muslims and he responds by saying ‘Innaa Lillaahi wa innaa ilahi raaji'oon, Allaahumma ujurni fi museebati w'ukhluf li khayran minha (Truly, to Allaah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return; O Allaah, reward me in this calamity and compensate me with something better than it),’ but Allaah will compensate him with something better than it.”
14 – The prayer of people after the soul of the deceased has been taken. According to the hadeeth, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) entered upon Abu Salamah (after he had died) and his eyes were open. He closed them and said: “When the soul is taken, the gaze follows it.” Some of his family got upset and he said: “Do not pray for anything but good for yourselves, for the angels say Ameen to whatever you say.” Narrated by Muslim. 2732.
15 – Du’aa’ for one who is sick. Muslim (919) narrated that Umm Salamah said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When you visit a sick person, say good things, for the angels say Ameen to whatever you say…” When Abu Salamah died, I came to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and said: “Abu Salamah has died.” He said: “Say: O Allaah, forgive me and him, and compensate me well.” She said: I said: And Allaah compensated me with one who was better for me than him: Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him).
16 – The prayer of the one who has been wronged. In the hadeeth it says: “Fear the prayer of the one who has been wronged, for there is no barrier between it and Allaah.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 469; Muslim, 19. And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The prayer of the one who has been wronged will be answered, even if he is an evildoer, for his evildoing is only against himself.” Narrated by Ahmad. See Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3382.

17 – The du’aa’ of a father for his child – i.e., for his benefit – and the du’aa’ of a fasting person during the day of his fast, and the prayer of the traveller. It was narrated in a saheeh report that our Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There are three prayers that are not rejected: the prayer of a father for his child, the prayer of the fasting person and the prayer of the traveller.” Narrated by al-Bayhaqi; see Saheeh al-Jaami’, 2032; al-Saheehah, 1797.

18 – The prayer of a father against his child – i.e., to harm him. According to a saheeh hadeeth: ‘There are three prayers that will be answered: the prayer of one who has been wronged, the prayer of a traveller, and the prayer of a father against his child.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1905. See Saheeh al-Adab al-Mufrad, 372.
19 – The du’aa’ of a righteous person for his parents, as stated in the hadeeth narrated by Muslim (1631): “When the son of Adam dies, all his good deeds come to an end except three: ongoing charity, a righteous son who will pray for him, or beneficial knowledge.”

20 – Du’aa’ after the sun has passed its zenith and before Zuhr. It was narrated from ‘Abd-Allaah ibn al-Saa’ib (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to pray four rak'ahs after the sun had passed its zenith and before Zuhr, and he said: “This is a time when the gates of heaven are opened and I want a good deed of mine to ascend during this time.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi and its isnaad is saheeh. See Takhreej al-Mishkaat, 1/337.

21 – Du’aa’ when going to bed at night, and saying the du’aa’ that was narrated for that time. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever goes to bed at night and says Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wa Allaahu akbar wa laa hawla wa laa quwwata illa Billaah (There is no god but Allaah and Allaah is Most Great and there is no power and no strength except with Allaah), then he says: Allaahumma ighfir li (O Allaah, forgive me), or he makes du’aa’, his prayer will be answered, and if he does wudoo’ and prays, his prayer will be accepted.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1154.
The distance between a person's problem and its solution is the distance betwn the knees and the ground for I believe that whoever knees down to Allaah can stand up to face ANY PROBLEM.

Still want more advise to make a decisive decision on what to do next.

Jazakallahu Khairan as you admonish me.

May Allaah continue to guide us. I don't know how exactly you've been approaching the matter with your HOD but I think you still have to sit her down for a 'heart-to-heart' discussion. You need to try to let her know how you feel; not only about the fact that you're feeling overworked and cheated but also about the possible adverse effects her attitude may have on the overall work output and quality.
Sometimes ppl, esp. superiors, don't like to be challenge about what they're not doing properly. They usually see it as an infringement on their authority. Even when they know they didn't assign responsibility with justice, they may remind you, if you complained, of the common clause in most appointment letters e.g. that you've been employed to do a,b,c and , any  other work given to you by your HOD/manager,etc,etc. In other to have a fruitful discussion(insha Allaah) with her, you may need to start with a preamble of the good sides you know of her and pray that Allaah give her the wisdom to continue with such a good thing. After her saying 'amin', bring in the matter while the prayer mood is still on. Mind you, this isn't as if you are begging her. You're only trying to employ diplomacy to achieve a just aim. Let her also be aware(or remind her) of the implications of sayings of the person in question that you ppl are monopolizing the work and turning the work to a Muslim thing.
Being a person that has been wronged, I think you are in possession of a weapon. Which weapon? The weapon of having your prayers answered.  In a hadeeth the Prophet said,: “Fear the prayer of the one who has been wronged, for there is no barrier between it and Allaah.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 469; Muslim, 19. And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The prayer of the one who has been wronged will be answered, even if he is an evildoer, for his evildoing is only against himself.” Narrated by Ahmad. See Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3382.  Pray, not against anybody, but to have things set right. As you await the time things will be in order, I appeal to you to approach every matter with patience and avoid allowing anybody to make you act in a way that will make ppl misunderstand your position. U know well that a good case wrongly handled may turn otherwise. If the work is tiring you out at the moment, I'll like you to take recourse to the prayer Allaah's Messenger(SAW) gave Fatima when she complained

I find it so difficult to finish Suratul Kaf today, my head is aching badly

May Allaah give you good health. I think you still have the chance to complete it before sunset.

Bros, did you pray your Fajr prayer in congregation this morning? You did? Congratulation. It was narrated that Ibn ‘Umar said: The Messenger (SAW) said: “The best prayer before Allaah is Fajr prayer on Friday in congregation.”
Narrated by al-Bayhaqi in Shu’ab al-Eemaan; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1119.
Barka Juma to all.

Could someone in the house shed more light on the islamic activity in Nigeria , I am not as curren tas i used to be and lost touch. Jarus or anyother person could you please help Ify out on this.

Muslim organisations make alot of efforts in educating ppl all over the country. I'm aware of the efforts of the TMC, the Deen Digest brothers in Lagos, the Markaz Dawah in Lagos, the Tadaomun in Ibadan, the Izalatu bid'a in the north, the MSSN all over the country and others that I may not remember to mention. One of the major hindrances is fund to put most of their programms on air.

Somebody might say but things have changed in modern times so polygamy is not needed but i say a big No, there are still more women than men statictics tell us and polygamy exists in many cultures round the world but without guidance on how to practise it.

I agree with you 100% that nothing has changed with regard to the population of male-female with female being more than the males. If you are previleged to know what happens in organisations where there are males and females you will see many women who are needy of husbands. The fact remains that Allaah, Who knows ppl's condition has allowed polygamy has a solution to many problems.
Allaah knows best.

Hello all, sorry I've been away 4 sometime.

I will give u a clue on my age.Im presently doing my PHD.Its not my style to insult but iwaboy started it.[/quotel ]
Toba, I'll like u to point out where I started any insult. If u think your post should not be put under some sane control because you are now on your Phd, then you're wrong. I tell u d truth posts I have received from u put a very BIG question mark this your acclaimed level of education. Moreover, u don't know what others have.

zayhal:

Among fellow muslim sisters, she can expose from her knee downward to her feet and all of her arm, hands, face and head. her chest down to the knees must be covered.

Among nonmuslim ladies, she should dress up completely including the hijab and not expose any part to them except in situations of necessity e.g for medical attention.

Our Alfas in the house will throw more light on it.

Butressing what sis Zayhal has said, I'll say there is general agreement among scholars that she may uncover her hair, face, hands, neck, shoulders, legs from below her knees as well as feet in front of Muslim women.Concerning what she must cover in the presence of non-Muslim women, broadly speaking, there are two views. One may be considered very liberal while the other may be considered very strict. Both scholars of the Maliki and the Hanbali schools generally consider only what is between the navel and the knee as the `awrah(unclothedness) that a woman must cover in front of other women, regardless of whether they are Muslims or non-Muslims.

As opposed to the above view, both the Hanafi and the Shaf`i scholars consider it obligatory for her to cover her entire body except what is normally exposed in ordinary course of daily interaction and domestic work. They consider it a must for her to cover all her body except her face, hands and feet.

The above difference of opinion is based on the differences in interpreting the Qur’anic verse concerning rules of covering in which Allah Almighty says: “And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be modest, and to display of their adornment only that which is apparent, and to draw their veils over their bosoms, and not to reveal their adornment save to their own husbands or fathers or husbands’ fathers, or their sons or their husbands' sons, or their brothers or their brothers' sons or sisters’ sons, or their women, or their slaves, or male attendants who lack vigor, or children who know naught of women's unclothedness. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment. And turn unto Allah together, O believers, in order that ye may succeed.” (An-Nur :31)

According to the scholars of both the Maliki and the Hanbali schools, the phrase “their women” includes all women including non-Muslims, while the scholars of both the Hanafi and the Shaf`i schools say rather it specifically distinguishes Muslim women from others, and, therefore, she must observe stricter rules of covering when appearing before non-Muslim women as opposed to Muslim women.

The last mentioned view that a Muslim woman is absolutely obliged to cover her entire body except her face, hands, and feet in presence of non-Muslim women seems to be a little extreme. Schorlars say there are no evidence in the sources to support such a conclusion. They say there are numerous instances of non-Muslim women, from both Jewish and pagan backgrounds, visiting the wives of the Prophet (SAW), as well as other Muslim women, and yet, there is no mention anywhere that the Prophet (SAW) ever ordered them to observe special rules of covering in their presence. If it had been necessary for them to do so,they reason, it is most unlikely that the Prophet (SAW) would have failed to mention it to them plainly and clearly.

Therefore, the view of Maliki and Hanbali schools on this issue seems to be more consistent with the evidences of the sources, as well as the general spirit of the Shari`ah.

Having said this, however, it must be stated clearly: All scholars agree that while normal laws apply in normal circumstances, where there is a suspicion of seduction or temptation or inclination towards vices either due to corruption of society or moral perversion, Muslim women are obliged to take all necessary precautions and thus cover appropriately in order to safeguard their honor, dignity and chastity.”

Allaah knows best.

Do expect my mail. May Allaah guide us.

May Allaah reward you abundantly for all your efforts. I quite appreciate it. I've been trying to compile other evidences to butress my position further but, sth just came to my mind that it's not supposed to be a debate. I'm afraid one may end up confusing ppl instead of making efforts to guide due to differences in opinions of schorlars.

My dear brother i will like you to note that words of scholars could be rejected as they are humans as well and subject to mistakes only the words of the prophet PBUH can never be rejected. We have to use our intelligence to analyse issues and not practise "cut &paste " of hadiths or ayat , I mean literal interpretation.

I think it is a fact widely accepted that all these schorlars are fallible. I do not think I have, at any time in my posts so far, presented any of them as infallible. I agree we have to use our intelligence for the analysis of schorlars opinion. The only thing I asked you for, when u mentioned the view of non-Hambali schorlars, was to get me where I could avail myself of access to their opinion to update what I know about d matter.
Do me a favour, let me know the name of the book(s) in which they expressed this opinion of theirs. I am in possession of Al-maktabatul shaamila; I have it on my pc. Most of the schorlars' books are in it in Arabic form.
May Allaah continue to be with us.

In what qualifies as a dramatic scenerio, Nigerian pilgrims in Israel on Tuesday took to their heels as monks of the Church of the Nativity clashed in Bethlehem.
Read the whole story here:http://www.punchontheweb.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art20091230433715
If these people don’t know how to organize pilgrimage, let them learn from the Muslims who are known to organize peaceful yearly assembly of about two million pilgrims. If our people did not get a good run-for-dear-life tutorial from home, something else could have happened to these good people of our great nation.

In what qualifies as a dramatic scenerio, Nigerian pilgrims in Israel on Tuesday took to their heels as monks of the Church of the Nativity clashed in Bethlehem.
Read the whole story here: http://www.punchontheweb.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art20091230433715
If these people don’t know how to organize pilgrimage, let them learn from the Muslims who are known to organize peaceful yearly assembly of about two million pilgrims. If our people did not get a good run-for-dear-life tutorial from home, something else could have happened to these good people of our great nation

FayeZik:

Salamunllah alaekun Brother Iwa
Thanks for your post. ki olorun se alekun imo gbogbo wa (Amin)
pls help me to understand this better. I know for sure that it is God who blesseth some womb with children and maketh barren some other womb, without these women doing or undoing, (bi o se wun oun olorun ni o ma nse ola). Now, are u saying that the barren women should not know the joy of getting married. Is it a sin not to have children? I don't get it.
I have also heard that somewhere in the Quran, it mentions that 'all material things of the world, including children are wahala and idamu' (sorry, i can't quote where exactly, but i've heard that several times). I am not throwing out any part of your posts, i just want more clarification and enlightenment. Maa salam.

Wa 'alaekum salam, my dear sister,
I really appreciate your post and concern. I'm not saying barren women should not know the joy of getting married. I only made it clear from schorlars' explanation of Prophetic tradition that it is discouraged and not haram to marry infertile women. Remember I also quoted a schorlar who said marrying an infertile man or woman is permissible in Islam. To some it up, it is preferable for us to look at where fertility seems to lie rather than elsewhere. I say seems to lie because we will only be relying on what was known about the person in the past which may not be completely correct.

Lagosboy:

Also, Sheilkh Munajjid is most definately of Hambalis school background and he was a student of Ibn Baz Rahimullah. Al Mughni is the Hamabli manual and encyclopedia of fiqh wa usul ul fiqh. My saying this is just to give a broader view of the understanding as many people just get answers from internet sites understanding it to be the only valid opinion. I have read the sheikhs whole statement on this issue on his website islamicqa but as a student of knowledge i know there is another side to the statement of marrying a barren woman being Makruh, with all due respect to Sheilh Munajid but the prophet PBUH will never do a makruh act and he married women who were childless. Again I state that Umm Salamah was matured and could proabably not concieve again (except by Allahs leave) when the Prophet PBUH married her.

When we have one hadeeth, we have to bring all other available ahadeeth and verses of the qur'an together to make a ruling not literally interpreting a hadith on its own. I am in no way or form close an inch in knowledge to the respected Shaikh Munajjid, but i feel the opinion of other non Hambali scholars on this issue is more valid. Marrying a childess woman is not Makru. Marrying a virgin woman can never be said to be makru if her family had fertility problems. Children is soleley from Allah and I will like to make a categorical statement here although some might find it strannge "No woman is created Barren in Islam" Every woman can have a baby as long as Allah wills it and Zakariyyahs wife plus Sarah are examples to testify this. Medically concieving at that age is medically impossible but Allah made it possible. No matter what medicine says about a woman been unable to concieve, Allah can always make it possible as he did not create any woman barren. Your level of spirituality and knowing how to call on Allah can make a childless woman have children

“To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. He creates what He wills. He bestows female (children) to whomsoever He wills and bestows male (children) to whomsoever He wills, or He bestows both males and females, and He leaves barren whomsoever He wills. He is full of Knowledge and Power.” (Surah al-Shura, V. 49-50)

Now the arabic of this verse 49 " Lilahi mulku samawat wal ard yakhluqu ma yashau . . . ." - To Allah belong the heavens and the earth and he creates what he wills.

50 is "Aw yuzawijuhum dhukra ana wa innatha wa yajal mon yashau aqiymon innahu alimun qodirun" - He bestowes male or female offspring and he renders barren who he wills.

Now in arabic Khalq (creation) and Yajal (changing of form/state) means different things. The making of a statue will not be said to be khalq but the word yajal will be used because the statues was from sand/stone which is the creation of Allah and humans only changed the form. Sometimes Allah also changes the form of his creatures like when Allah said in surah baqara vs 22 " Alledhi ja'ala lakum al ard firasha . . ."
" me have made the earth as a resting place (by spreading it and making it balance for man to walk on)." Note Allah did not use khalq , he did not say we created the earth for you as a resting place because the earth had been created before Adam for purposes only known to Allah but Allah said we made (ja'ala) m meaning we changed it is form for you.

Now to the issue at hand the creation of Adam is khalq and every woman was created with the ability to concieve and no woman was created barren. Allah only changes the form of whoever woman he pleases not to have children and he can reverse it back if he wills through dua and sorts. That is why Allah did not say in 42 verse 50 " Wa yakhlaqu mon yashau aqiymon" rather he said yajal.

I do not like going very deep into issues like this so as not to confuse people but on this occassion I just had to, so as as to butress the point.

Marrying a barren woman cannot be said to be Makru (frowned upon) as the Prophet PBUH never said so expressly, and he married women who were childless. Also no woman was created barren so why should anyone descriminate on women on that basis. It is encouraged to marry fertile women I accept, However fartility cannot be proven until after marriage so the application of this rule is theoretical for virgin women.The hadeeth quoted was a specific case and dangerous to generalise hence I disagree with the term of makru for marriage to barren women, It can only be said to be mubah.

And God knows best.

May Allaah reward you abundantly for your effort.
I want us to remember that the Prophet (SAW) was allowed by Allaah to do certain things which are, by sharia (Islamic jurispundence), either makru or even haram for the rest of us. His marrying more than four wives which is haram for the rest of us is just one of such permissions his Lord granted him.
As to people using the internet taking what's there as the only valid opinion is unfortunate. I think such people should try to read wide so that we can all learn. Concerning other views as to the sharia stand on marrying infertile women, I expected you to quote these non-Hambali Schorlars so that we can all learn from them. Most of the issues that seem new today are not reaaly new, I mean schorlars have made extensive pronouncements on them. If you look at Adabus-Sifaf, al-Albaani too dwelt on it. For this reason, I usually feel more comfortable looking deep at schorlars opinion before forming mine cos I'm not a mufti but a poor student of knowledge.
Please, concerning the commentary you gave on Surah al-Shura, V. 49-50, I'll be grateful if you can send me the name of the tafseer or mufaseer that presented the explanation in that manner.
To really be able to say if the Prophet (SAW) meant marrying an infertile person was makroo or not, we may need to look at the hadith of Ma’qil ibn Yasaar (quoted in earlier post) and its sharih from schorlars of hadith who I think are more qualified than us. To say whether a hadith is 'am(general) or khas(specific) needs some proper understanding of the science of hadith.
Some statements may sound to us as being discriminatory but, in the light of adequate and well informed commentory from our eminent schorlars, the actual intent of it will be clearer. For example, what will one say of a hadith in Sahih Muslim in which Abu Hurayrah said: "I was with the Prophet (SAW) when a man came and told him that he had married a woman of the Ansaar. The Messenger of Allaah (SAW) said to him, 'Have you seen her?' He said, 'No.' He(SAW) said, 'Go and look at her, for there is something in the eyes of the Ansaar." Can one say that's a discrimination against th Ansaari women? Of course not. How do we know with certainty? Through the explanation of our eminent shorlars of hadith.

May Allaah continue to enrich us with knowlegde and strenghten our imaan.

May Allaah guide us all.
Let me start by saying the hadith in question can be found as narrated by al-Nasaa’i (3227) and Abu Dawood (2050). I feel it’s also pertinent I let it be known that it’s not only al-Albaani that authenticated the hadith. It was also authenticated by Ibn Hibbaan (9/363). So saying one disagrees with al-Munajid’s ‘ interpretation’ that we should (or are encouraged to) marry women who are fertile is tantamount to disagreeing with the Prophet(SAW) who made the statement- “Marry those who are loving and fertile,…”. The hadith in question was narrated by Ma’qil Ibn Yassar. This hadith is not strange for it was also narrated that Anas ibn Maalik (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to say: “Marry the one who is loving (wudood) and fertile (wulood), for I will feel proud of your large numbers before the other Prophets on the Day of Resurrection.” Narrated by Ahmad (12202). Classed as saheeh by Ibn Hibbaan (3/338) and by al-Haythami in Majma’ al-Zawaa’id (4/474).
I think your perception that the Prophet’s advice is discriminatory is very wrong. Concerning the second hadith Sham al-Deen Abaadi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in ‘Awn al-Ma’bood (6/33-34); “Wudood (loving) means she loves her husband. Wulood (fertile) means the one who bears many children. These two conditions are mentioned together because if a fertile woman is not loving, her husband will feel no desire for her, and if a loving woman is not fertile, the desired aim will not be achieved, which is to increase the numbers of the ummah by producing many children. These two characteristics may be known in the case of virgins from the behaviour of their relatives, because in most cases relatives are similar in behaviour and characteristics.”
If you look at the text of the 1st hadith, the man was prohibited but, mark you, this prohibition does not mean that it is haraam, rather it is makrooh. The scholars stated that choosing a fertile woman is mustahabb, not obligatory. Ibn Qudaamah said in al-Mughni: “It is mustahabb that she be from a family whose women are known to bear many children.”
Al-Manaawi said in Fayd al-Qadeer (6. hadeeth 9775): “Marrying a woman who is not fertile is makrooh.” But, just as it is permissible for a woman to marry an infertile man, it is also permissible for a man to marry an infertile woman. Rather than a discriminatory stance, I see it as an advice that emphasizes one of the fundamental significances of marriage.
Al-Haafiz said in al-Fath: “As for one who cannot have children or who has no desire for women or for intimacy, this (marriage) is permissible in his case, if the woman is aware of that and agrees to it.”
I will be expecting the outcome of your research on the hadith, bro Lagosboy, so that we can all learn.
Allaah knows best.

FayeZik:

On the topic at hand. I don't think there is any where in the Quran that gives direction as to how many children we should have, but personally, I think 3 or 4 is more ideal in this world of today. In the olden days, it doesn't take much to raise a kid.
Starting from when a baby is born:-
Breastfeeding ,water and 'eko/ogi' has now been replaced by breastfeeding and baby formulas or formula alone which is very expensive.
Clothing a baby in those days was by using old papa/mama clothes and make little babies clothes from them or using some 'irepes'.
Diapering is the same thing - cutting off old clothes and using 'aha' (little bowls) put in between the thighs of mama and sit baby's behind in it.
Baby bottles were not even needed. Remeber how they did it !
Growing up, kids nowadays go to day cares, baby sitters, private schools - all these cost a lot.
Now they are teenagers, they need uniforms, shoes, computers, games, ipods, even cell phones!!!
Now if they were born and bred in Nigeria, they are trying to go abroad, parents are now looking for a way to get visas and then ticket money. If born and live abroad, they want their Michael Jordan's, Nike 's and all those $200 gym shoes. Should I go on Kids are just too expensive. Why not put what u can chew in your mouth so that swallowing will be more easier. That's just how I see it.
It is true that God will not give us any problem that we cannot handle, but must we look for troubles?

My mother has 10 children, I am no. 2. I've been there, done that. It's tough!!!.

Family planning in a religious way, and no abortion, then leave the rest to God.

I think it is wrong for anyone to refer to having many children as "looking for troubles" The Messenger of Allaah(SAW) is wiser than any of us and his advice was relevant during his life time, it's relevant today and will never lose its relevance till the end of time. If one goes into sayings of Prophet Muhammad(SAW), it'll be seen that he actually promised that marriage and having children warranted God's provisions and bounty, and he encouraged people to get married and to have children and raise them well. He also advised us to have many children.
Abu Dawood narrated that Ma’qil ibn Yasaar said: A man came to the Prophet (SAW) and said, “I have found a woman who is of good lineage and is beautiful, but she does not children. Should I marry her?” He said, “No.” Then he came again with the same question and he told him not to marry her. Then he came a third time with the same question and he said: “Marry those who are loving and fertile, for I will be proud of your great numbers before the other nations.” Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 1784. In his explanation, Shaikh Salih ai-Munajid said,"This hadeeth indicates that it is encouraged to marry women who are fertile, so that the numbers of the ummah will increase, and so the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) will feel proud of his ummah before all other nations. This shows that it is encouraged to have a lot of children."
As for it being tough for some ppl, we should view poverty in densely populated nations as a problem of mismanagement of resources and disturbing the natural balance, rather than a result of the number of children born into each family.
Allaah knows best.







Consequently, we should view poverty in densely populated nations as a problem of mismanagement of resources and disturbing the natural balance, rather than a result of the number of children born into each family.

focused123:

@poster :

I will never attend such Jihad gathering. These Islamist are worst than psychotic donkeys

U do not have to attend such a gathering if u still value d falsehood u carry about. If u attend it, those guys will beam a powerful light of informed truth on christianity and u will see d unclothedness of its uselessness. Den u will either become convinced of Islam or confused of christianity. I bet u'll never be the same again. U mark my word.

It was proven from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) that the best fasting after Ramadaan is fasting in the month of Muharram. It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best fasting after Ramadaan is the month of Allaah Muharram, and the best prayer after the obligatory prayer is prayer at night.” Narrated by Muslim, 1163.
With regard to the phrase “the month of Allaah”, mentioning the month in conjunction with Allaah is a sign of its great status. By this fact, the more one fasts in Muharram the better. Allaah is the source of strength.

Fasting in Muharram shouldn't be restricted to Tasuu'a and Ashoora alone. After Ramadhan, the best month of fasting is the month of Allaah called Muharram.

Jairzinho:

Why? Sunnis (and most especially the wahabbi school of Sunnis) are responsible for 99% of the religious violence in the world today. Shia are more accomodating.

You sound to me like a shite that's doing Tuqya. If that's the case, it's unfortunate.

I think I need not worry myself. Each time I raise an important point, u usually have recourse to an escape route; irrelevant digression. As it has become dawn on me and whoever follows this thread that u're beref of facts and simple reasoning faculty, I deam it necessary to allow u to stall (for time). Whoever argues with a stammerer may end up killing him!

Another BLUNDER, Toba. If u mean u didn't join d thread to talk about the subject It Is Haram To Celebrate New Years! and u also think d actual subject should be ignored, then it's quite a pity. Talking only about criticism or otherwise of the gregorian calendar which is not the bone of contention is enough to show the pathetic level of your [b]mumu[/b]lity. It's been very nice chatting with u. In fact it will qualify u for a very nice place in d best 100 mumus in nairaland. For the best mumu award, u have my vote.
When u attended school, were u told d importance of anything like topic/subject. Kai Toba, u've really exposed your intelectual blankness! Don't u know that completely changing d thread subject/topic is like allowing your chatting plane to chrash-land into the dangerous ocean crude digression? May be u don't know, if u desire to talk about sth different u need to start a fresh thread.
Toba, u really need some forms of tutorials so that u can measure up with intelligent ppl. I mean it.

In your second to the last post you said:"Up to date some christians dnt celebrate xmas,while others do". Thank u for admitting this fact. These are the questions I have for you: Why didn't you crucify them for not celebrating christmas that some ppl had been celebrating b4 they were born? Why do u only want to die because Muslims say they won't be part of d new yr celebration? Is this not irrationality?
Also why don't you tell those christians to either 'enforce' the cancellation of christmas celebration or 'for ever remain silent till death on' christmas celebration. The more u post the more u reveal to d world dat dia is hardly anything u ppl do dat has a sound basis. It's either a left-over from idolatory or paganism or d date isn't correct. Do u think it's proper to base the whole of your life on uncertainties and paganistic absurdities. Pls, Toba, put on your thinking cap.

Every discerning follower of this thread can really say who is myopic btwn u and I. I don't think we need to hook up b4 we know who is who cos every post u send u present one blunder or another. Isn't that enough for u to know your IQ needs to be given a lift so that u can measure up with intelligent ppl?
U said your idol-inclined calenda had been dia from time immemorial. Fine, but does that make it the right thing? For how many years were Istraelites in darkness b4 Jesus was sent to them? Why don't u say it was wrong for Jesus to preach to them they had to worship God and not idols? Why didn't him leave them to continue with the status quo since they had been in it for quite a long time even b4 Jesus and even his mother were born? He would'nt do that because he was sent to bring about a positive change and not to just look at ignorance with complacency simply because it's been there for long.
Mind u, let me correct d erroneuos impression u created i n you last post; Muhammed(SAW) is not the saviour of Muslims. Allaah is the saviour of all of us. Even Jesus is nobody's saviour! The Bible attests to this. Check the book of Isaiah 43:10-11 "Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour.

The last post refers.
Sorry, dia seems to be a mistake in d e-mail included. Send any question on it to the moderator; Jarus.

Dear sister, I really pity your condition although it isn't strange to me. No doubt; this is a clear case of jin possession. Don't allow that to scare you. There isn't a problem dat lacks solution. Your problem will soon become history, insha Allaah.
If it occurs that you have started having some hatred for the one you want to marry, don't tell him off; it's one of the handiworks of jinns when things like this occur. DON'T EVER take any suggestion that involves d use of charms to nulify the effect for this may (if at all) only bring temporary relief and definately bounce back in an aggravated form.
1st Step
The first step towards providing solution to this problem is the recitation of Ruqya (Qur'aanic verses) used for exorcism. This should be done by Muslims who do not associate partners with Allaah and follow the sunnah of the Holy Prophet(SAW). It should be done in the presence of at least one of your mahrams(persons that the Sharia do not allow to marry you). The person to recite the Ruqya will place his right hand on your head, you and him will be in ablution, you'll be properly dressed preferably you have to cover the whole of your body and face the qiblah. The Ruqyah should be done at least 3 tikmes.
If there is any reaction, he should make attempts to force the jinn out. If there is no reaction, then the second step should be followed.
2nd Step
Get a bucket full of pure water (I mean water one can drink). Let some1 help you recite the following into it. The person has to move his mouth close to the water so that the air that comes from the person's mouth while reciting goes directly into the water. The following are to be recited:
Aayatul Ruqya(completely)-1 time, A'udhubikalimaati'llahi taamat, (to the end)-3 times, Audhubikaliaati'llahit-taammaati min gadhabihi wa 'iqaabihi, (to the end)-3 times, Allahumma Rabban-naas adh-hibilbaas, (to the end)-3 times, Bismillaahi arkiiki wa'llaahu yashfeeki, (3 times).
After all the recitation, drink little from the water. Use the remaining one to take a shower. Before taking the shower, put a big bow down so that most of the water that fall off your body will go into it. After this, sprinke little of the water in the rooms you live in. Pour the remaining water away in a clean place(NOT IN THE TOILET) in your compound. Do this for 7 days.
Make sure you are always dressed in accordance with shariah. Always do all the necessary adhkaar(for sleeping, b4 entering toilet, etc). Needless I tell you that observance of your 5 daily prayers at their prescribed times must not be joked with.
If all these are properly done, you will have reasons to be grateful to Allaah, insha Allaah. If any aspect is not clear, feel free to ask [email]engrluqman@yahoo.com[/email]. Allaah is the source of strength.

Lagosboy. Pls let me know when d debate will take place. I'll like to be available too. I think this Usisky needs help. He's a victim of a pathetic consequence of ignorance and blind followership of pseudo-schorlars.

Toba. If u are in doubt. Pls check it out here:- http://www.newyearfestival.com/origin-of-new-year.html. PLs and pls, Toba, shake off sentiments. Seek and accept the truth. The TRUTH shall set you FREE.

Toba. For your in4mation, D Roman emperor Julius Caesar officially declared January 1 to be a New Year in 46 B.C. Romans worshiped god Janus who had two faces, one looking forward and the other looking backward. The month of January was named after this Roman god and it gave an idea to the emperor to establish January as a gate to the New Year. How do you see this? Would u like to be associated with d double-face-idol Janus? I'm sure you wouldn't. but, don't 4get dat the fact that january was named after dis Roman god(Janus) gave d emperor, Julius Ceaser, d idea to establish January as a gate to d new year. D same new year u celebrate year in year out. I don't blame u for so doing. My position is dat Muslims, who are not slaves to Janus, should not join you to celebrate d so called new year.Period.