LESSON FOUR | 40 Ahâdeeth | Arba’een | of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه

bismillahh

•   LESSON FOUR   •    DOWNLOAD AUDIO > Hadith 3 | Islam is built on Five Pillars    |   DOWNLOAD NOTES > PDF
 

Lessons from Ahâdeeth Shareef by Moulana Naeem Motala  | Commentary on 40 Ahâdeeth | Arba’een | of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه with emphasis on perfecting one’s character

 

|   LESSON FOUR   |

اَلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ نَحْمَدُهُ وَنَسْتَعِينُهُ وَنَسْتَغْفِرُهُ وَنُؤمِنُ بِهِ وَ نَتَوَ كَّلُ عَلَيهِ ، وَنَعُوْذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنْ شُرُوْرِ أَنْفُسِنَا وَمِنْ سَيِّئَاتِ أَعْمَالِنَا، مَنْ يَهْدِهِ اللَّهُ فَلاَ مُضِلَّ لَهُ وَمَنْ يُضْلِلْ فَلاَ هَادِيَ لَهُ ، وَنَشْهَدُ أَنْ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ ، وَنَشْهَدُ أَنَّ سَيِّدَناَ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ 

Verily all praise is for Allah, we praise Him and seek His aid and ask for His forgiveness and we believe in Him and we place our trust upon Him, and we seek refuge with Allah from the evils of ourselves and our evil actions. Whomsoever Allah guides there is none who can misguide him, and whomsoever Allah misguides there is none who can guide him, and we bear witness that none has the right to be worshiped except Allah alone, having no partner, and we bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger

اَللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى سَيِّدِناَ مُحَمَّدٍ ، وَعَلَى آلِ سَيِّدِناَ مُحَمَّدٍ وَبَارِكْ وَسَلِّمْ

Allahumma Salli ‘ala Sayyidina Muhammad Wa’ala Aali Sayyidina Muhammadin Wa Baarik Wa Sallim | Oh Allah shower blessings and peace upon our Master Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam and upon the family of Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam


|  HADITH 3  |

ISLAM IS BUILT ON 5 PILLARS

 

عَنْ أَبِي عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ عُمَرَ بْنِ الْخَطَّابِ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا قَالَ: سَمِعْت رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم يَقُولُ :  بُنِيَ الْإِسْلَامُ عَلَى خَمْسٍ: شَهَادَةِ أَنْ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَأَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللَّهِ، وَإِقَامِ الصَّلَاةِ، وَإِيتَاءِ الزَّكَاةِ، وَحَجِّ الْبَيْتِ، وَصَوْمِ رَمَضَانَ • رَوَاهُ الْبُخَارِيُ ، وَمُسْلِمٌ

Hazrat Abdullah, the son of Hazrat ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab Radiallahu Anhuma, said:

I heard Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam say, “Islam has been built on five [pillars]: testifying that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, establishing the Salaah (prayer), paying the Zakaat (obligatory charity), making the Hajj (pilgrimage) to the House, and fasting in (the month of) Ramadaan.” [Saheeh Bukhari] [Saheeh Muslim]


|  BRIEF EXPLANTION  |

 

“Islam has been built on five [pillars]

Islam is like a structure built on five pillars. The Kalimah (Imaan) forms the central pillar and the remaining four pillars, give support to the overall structure.

 

testifying that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah

  • The first and most fundamental Pillar (of Islam) is the Kalimah (Imaan). Our salvation in the Aakhirah depends on the acceptance of Islam and Imaan. One has to believe in the Kalimah Tayyibah sincerely and affirm its meaning. This Kalimah is the basis of our entire Deen. Without this Kalimah (Imaan) our good deeds will not be accepted by Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala.
  • When one recites the Kalimah sincerely the doors of the sky are opened for it, until this Kalimah reaches the Arsh of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala [Tirmidhi].
  • If the Kalimah had to placed on one pan of the scale and the skies and the earth in the other pan, the Kalimah will outweigh the latter.
     

establishing the Salaah (prayer),

  • After the Kalimah, the next most important pillar of this structure of Deen is Salaah. The implementation of Salaah becomes a great shield against sins and acts of disobedience. Salaah is a deliverance on the Day of Qiyaamah for those who used to observe it well. The very first A’mal (deed) concerning Huququllah (the rights of Allah) of which man will be will be accountable for on the day of Qiyamah, will be Salaah. If the Salaah is found to be sound, the rest of his deeds will also be satisfactory.

Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala has mentioned in the Noble Qur’aan:

وَالَّذِينَ هُمْ عَلَىٰ صَلَوَاتِهِمْ يُحَافِظُونَ

And they who carefully maintain their prayers – [Surat Al-Mu’minūn 23:9]

  • Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam mentioned : “The coolness of my eyes has been placed in Salaah”.
  • The parting advice of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam just before he left this world were “الصَّلاَةَ وَمَا مَلَكَتْ أَيْمَانُكُمْ” … The prayer; and those whom your (right hands) possess. [Sunan Ibn Majah], which means : Vigilantly observe, guard and establish the Salaah and fear Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala regarding your slaves and your subordinates.

Some of the Virtues of Salaah are the following : (1) Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala will forgive his sins. (2) He will not be counted amongst the Ghaafileen (negligent one’s). (3) His minor sins are shed off his body. (4) It will be a means of Nur (light), Burhan (proof) and Najaat (salvation) for him on the day of Qiyaamah. (5) He will gain the Mercy and blessings of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala. (6) Salaah is a key to Jannah.

 

paying the Zakaat (obligatory charity),

 Zakaat purifies and eliminates the impurities that have accumulated in a person’s wealth.

  • Zakaat also means to ‘grow’ and thus is a means of increasing the barakah of a person’s wealth.
  • When a person does not discharge his Zakaat, this will result in misfortune and calamities settling over him. There will be depletion in wealth and elimination of Barakah. People will suffer famine. And, he will be thrown into Jahannum.
  • It is mentioned in the Ahaadeeth, that those who hoard gold and silver, but did not discharge Zakaat regarding it, will be punished with the same wealth (of gold and silver) for a duration of 50 000 years on the day of Qiyamah.
     

and fasting the month of Ramadan.’”

Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala has mentioned in the Noble Qur’aan : 

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ

O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous. [Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183]

  • The importance of fasting (the fourth pillar of Islam) is abundantly established in numerous verses of the Noble Qur’aan and the Ahaadeeth of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. The superiority of fasting over other deeds, is in relation to certain special characteristics, such as, the degree of sincerity. Fasting has in it a very inconspicuous nature, whereas other acts of Ibaadah (Salaah, Zakaat, Hajj) are conspicuous in varying degrees. Fasting is totally concealed. Only Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala is aware whether the person is fasting or not, hence it Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala mentions in a Hadith-e-Qudsi : الصَّوْمُ لِي وَأَنَا أَجْزِي بِهِ ، Fasting is for Me, and I Myself, will reward the fasting person. [Saheeh Bukhaari]
  • By virtue of fasting, a person is protected from internal and external diseases.
  • A person who is fasting experiences two occasions of delight : (1) When he meets his Rabb and receives his reward for fasting (2) and the other at the time of Iftaar.

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam has mentioned in a Hadith : “الصِّيَامُ جُنَّةٌ” Fasting is a shield. [Saheeh Muslim]. It protects a person from the fire of Jahannum and from sin.

 

making pilgrimage to the House

  • Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is obligatory for a person to make Hajj of the Baitullah (for the sake of Allah). For all those who have the ability and them means to perform the Hajj. Hajj is actually a demonstration of the love of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala and this flavour of love permeates in the different acts of Hajj. A stern warning has been given to those who have ‘the means’ both physically and financially, but neglect this command of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala.
  • Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam has mentioned : Whoever has the provisions and the means to convey him to Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala’s house (the Kaabah) and he does not perform Hajj, then it does not matter if he dies as a Jew or a Christian. [Tirmidhi]
  • Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam has mentioned :Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or transgression shall return [free from sins] as he was on the day his mother gave birth to him”. [Saheeh Bukhaari]

For a Hajj, free from evil, vice and sin, there is no reward but Jannah.

LESSON THREE | 40 Ahâdeeth | Arba’een | of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه

­

bismillahh

 •   LESSON THREE   •    DOWNLOAD AUDIO > Hadith 2 | Hadith-e-Jibra’eel | Islam > Imaan > Ihsaan    |   DOWNLOAD NOTES > PDF

Lessons from Ahâdeeth Shareef by Moulana Naeem Motala  | Commentary on 40 ahâdeeth | Arba’een | of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه with emphasis on perfecting one’s character

|   LESSON THREE   |

اَلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ نَحْمَدُهُ وَنَسْتَعِينُهُ وَنَسْتَغْفِرُهُ وَنُؤمِنُ بِهِ وَ نَتَوَ كَّلُ عَلَيهِ ، وَنَعُوْذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنْ شُرُوْرِ أَنْفُسِنَا وَمِنْ سَيِّئَاتِ أَعْمَالِنَا، مَنْ يَهْدِهِ اللَّهُ فَلاَ مُضِلَّ لَهُ وَمَنْ يُضْلِلْ فَلاَ هَادِيَ لَهُ ، وَنَشْهَدُ أَنْ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ ، وَنَشْهَدُ أَنَّ سَيِّدَناَ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ 

Verily all praise is for Allah, we praise Him and seek His aid and ask for His forgiveness and we believe in Him and we place our trust upon Him, and we seek refuge with Allah from the evils of ourselves and our evil actions. Whomsoever Allah guides there is none who can misguide him, and whomsoever Allah misguides there is none who can guide him, and we bear witness that none has the right to be worshiped except Allah alone, having no partner, and we bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger

اَللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى سَيِّدِناَ مُحَمَّدٍ ، وَعَلَى آلِ سَيِّدِناَ مُحَمَّدٍ وَبَارِكْ وَسَلِّمْ

Allahumma Salli ‘ala Sayyidina Muhammad Wa’ala Aali Sayyidina Muhammadin Wa Baarik Wa Sallim | Oh Allah shower blessings and peace upon our Master Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam and upon the family of Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam


 

|  HADITH 2  |

 HADITH-E-JIBRA’EEL |  ISLAM • IMAAN • IHSAAN

 

عَنْ عُمَرَ رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ أَيْضًا قَالَ: ” بَيْنَمَا نَحْنُ جُلُوسٌ عِنْدَ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم ذَاتَ يَوْمٍ، إذْ طَلَعَ عَلَيْنَا رَجُلٌ شَدِيدُ بَيَاضِ الثِّيَابِ، شَدِيدُ سَوَادِ الشَّعْرِ، لَا يُرَى عَلَيْهِ أَثَرُ السَّفَرِ، وَلَا يَعْرِفُهُ مِنَّا أَحَدٌ. حَتَّى جَلَسَ إلَى النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه و سلم . فَأَسْنَدَ رُكْبَتَيْهِ إلَى رُكْبَتَيْهِ، وَوَضَعَ كَفَّيْهِ عَلَى فَخِذَيْهِ، وَقَالَ: يَا مُحَمَّدُ أَخْبِرْنِي عَنْ الْإِسْلَامِ فَقَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم الْإِسْلَامُ أَنْ تَشْهَدَ أَنْ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَأَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللَّهِ، وَتُقِيمَ الصَّلَاةَ، وَتُؤْتِيَ الزَّكَاةَ، وَتَصُومَ رَمَضَانَ، وَتَحُجَّ الْبَيْتَ إنْ اسْتَطَعْتَ إلَيْهِ سَبِيلًا. قَالَ: صَدَقْتَ . فَعَجِبْنَا لَهُ يَسْأَلُهُ وَيُصَدِّقُهُ قَالَ: فَأَخْبِرْنِي عَنْ الْإِيمَانِ قَالَ: أَنْ تُؤْمِنَ بِاَللَّهِ وَمَلَائِكَتِهِ وَكُتُبِهِ وَرُسُلِهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الْآخِرِ، وَتُؤْمِنَ بِالْقَدَرِ خَيْرِهِ وَشَرِّهِ قَالَ: صَدَقْت. قَالَ: فَأَخْبِرْنِي عَنْ الْإِحْسَانِ قَالَ: أَنْ تَعْبُدَ اللَّهَ كَأَنَّك تَرَاهُ، فَإِنْ لَمْ تَكُنْ تَرَاهُ فَإِنَّهُ يَرَاك قَالَ: فَأَخْبِرْنِي عَنْ السَّاعَةِ. قَالَ: مَا الْمَسْئُولُ عَنْهَا بِأَعْلَمَ مِنْ السَّائِلِ  قَالَ: فَأَخْبِرْنِي عَنْ أَمَارَاتِهَا؟ قَالَ: أَنْ تَلِدَ الْأَمَةُ رَبَّتَهَا، وَأَنْ تَرَى الْحُفَاةَ الْعُرَاةَ الْعَالَةَ رِعَاءَ الشَّاءِ يَتَطَاوَلُونَ فِي الْبُنْيَانِ. ثُمَّ انْطَلَقَ، فَلَبِثْتُ مَلِيًّا، ثُمَّ قَالَ: يَا عُمَرُ أَتَدْرِي مَنْ السَّائِلُ؟ قُلْتُ: اللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُ أَعْلَمُ  قَالَ: فَإِنَّهُ جِبْرِيلُ أَتَاكُمْ يُعَلِّمُكُمْ دِينَكُمْ ” • رَوَاهُ مُسْلِمٌ 

Hazrat ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu, narrates :

While we were sitting with Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam one day, there appeared before us a man dressed in extremely white clothes and with very black hair. No traces of journeying were visible on him, and none of us knew him. He sat down close by Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, rested his knees against the knees of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and placed his palms over his thighs, and said : “O Muhammad! Inform me about Islam”.

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam replied : “Islam is that you should testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger (ﷺ), that you should perform Salaah, pay the Zakaah, fast during (the month of) Ramadan, and perform Hajj (pilgrimage) to the House (the Kaabah at Makkah), if you can find a way to it (ie: find the means for making the journey to it).” He (the man)  said : “You have spoken the truth”.

We were astonished at his questioning him (ﷺ) and then affirming what he (ﷺ) had mentioned, but he went on to say, “Inform me about Iman (faith)”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam answered : “It is that you believe in Allah and His angels and His Books and His Messengers and in the Last Day, and in Divine Decree (Qadr), both in its good and in its evil.” He (the man)  said : “You have spoken the truth.” Then he (the man) said, “Inform me about Ihsaan”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam answered : “It is that you should worship Allah as though you could see Him, for though you cannot see Him yet He sees you”. He (the man)  said, “Inform me about the Hour (Qiyaamah)”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said : “About that the one questioned knows no more than the questioner”. So He (the man) said, “Well, inform me about its signs”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said : “That the slave-girl will give birth to her mistress and that you will see the barefooted ones, naked, destitute, herdsmen of sheep (competing with each other) in raising lofty buildings”.

“Thereupon the man went off. I waited a while, and then Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said : “O `Umar, do you know who that questioner was?” I (‘Umar) replied : “Allah and His Messenger know better”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said : “That was Jibra’eel (Alayhis Salaam) He came to teach you your Deen (religion)”.

 [Saheeh Muslim]


 

HADITH-E-JIBRA’EEL حديثُ جبريل is probably considered as the most important, expansive and comprehensive Hadith in all Hadith literature. It is a summation of Deen and covers the fundamentals of Deen.

Ulema have explained : Just as Surah Al-Faatihah has been classified as ‘Ummul Qur’aan’ (the essence of the Qur’aan) because it is a summary of the fundamental themes discussed in the other chapters of the Noble Qur’aan, similarly, Hadith-u-Jibra’eel has been classified by some scholars as ‘Ummul Hadith’ (the gist of Ahadeeth) because it is a summary of the fundamental themes mentioned in Hadith Literature.

In this Hadith, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam talks about the internal and external facets of Deen and briefly discusses the basic principles of Shariah, ie :  ‘Islam’ as the outward actions of the limbs, ‘Imaan’ as being associated with the inner actions of the heart (belief, statement and action), and ‘Ihsaan’ (beautifying and spiritually perfecting one’s good deeds) as the highest level to attain.

HADITH-E-JIBRA’EEL |  BRIEF EXPLANTION

 

While we were sitting with Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam one day, there appeared before us a man dressed in extremely white clothes and with very black hair. No traces of journeying were visible on him, and none of us knew him.

  • The love, admiration and respect of the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum for Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam was unparalleled and his lofty position and greatness would leave them awestruck in his presence. Out of reverence for this exalted personality, the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum would be modest in their gaze towards him and could not stare at his face, when addressing him. They would look forward to occasions when someone would attend the gathering and ask questions on certain aspects of Deen. The Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum would seize such opportunities to increase their knowledge.
  • One day, whilst the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum were sitting in the company of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, a man dressed in exceedingly pure, clean and white garments with stark pitch-black hair, suddenly appeared before them.
  • Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala sent forth this person with an immaculate striking appearance, into the company of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum. Traces of journey could not be seen on him, yet, he was not recognized as a resident of Madinah Munawwarah. It is mentioned in the books of Hadith, that the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum looked around at each other, to see if anyone recognized the stranger.
  • • It is deduced from this Hadith that a Muslim should have a good appearance and remain as clean as possible, especially when attending gatherings in the Musjid or when seeking knowledge. White clothing is also preferred, especially for the people of knowledge. In this respect, a student desiring to attain knowledge and a teacher imparting knowledge, must approach it in the proper manner (Adaab), with the correct intention, and respect for the knowledge being gained or imparted. To gain maximum benefit, one must show signs of respect such as, sitting in the Tashahhud position before his teacher.

He sat down close by Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, rested his knees against the knees of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and placed his palms over his thighs, and said : “O Muhammad! Inform me about Islam”.

  • In this narration of the Hadith, it is mentioned that this person, seated himself in a distinct manner beside Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, so that he rested his knees closely upon Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam’s knees and placed his palms (1) upon his own lap; or (2) upon the lap of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and said : “ O Muhammad, tell me about (the essence) of Islam”.

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam replied : “Islam is that you should testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger (), that you should perform Salaah, pay the Zakaah, fast during (the month of) Ramadan, and perform Hajj (pilgrimage) to the House (the Kaabah at Makkah), if you can find a way to it (ie: find the means for making the journey to it).” 

  • Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, explained Islam, as the external actions of the limbs such as words and deeds. The first of which, is that (1) one bears witness (Shahadah) that there is no deity worthy of being worshipped, besides Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala and that Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, is the Messenger of Allah. Then there is (2) establishing the prayer (Salaah); (3) paying Zakaah; (4) fasting in the month of Ramadan and (5) to make pilgrimage (Hajj) to the House of you have the means to do so.

He (the man)  said : “You have spoken the truth”. We were astonished at his questioning him () and then affirming what he () had mentioned, 

  • Hazrat ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu mentioned their astonishment toward this mysterious individual, who asked Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, a question, implying that he (the individual) did not know the answer, and hence asked Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam the question. Then, boldly verified that the answers that were given by Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam were correct.
  • We understand from this Hadith, that seeking knowledge, through asking good meaningful questions (for a better understanding) will lead to valuable knowledge and good action. Asking good questions will result in better learning as well as teaching. Those who are present when the questions are asked will also learn from the answers.
  • Imaam Maalik Rahmatullahi Alayh, a renowned scholar of Hadith and author of Al-Muwatta’ , was a true Aashiq (Lover) of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and Madinah Munawarrah. He was also known as ‘Imam Daril Hijrah’ due to his remaining in Madinah the majority of his life.

When Imaam Maalik Rahmatullahi Alayh would intend to narrate Ahadeeth, he would perform Whudu (ablution), comb his beard, don a clean robe and seat himself respectfully, and say : “I wish to accord respect to the Hadith of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam”.

On one occasion, when imparting knowledge to a huge assembly of people, Imaam Maalik Rahmatullahi Alayh‘s students suddenly saw his facial expressions showing pain, with the colour of his face turning red. Only until the termination of the lesson, and upon removing his Kurta, the students discovered that a scorpion had emerged from within it. Despite being repeatedly bitten on his back by the stinging scorpion, he did not move position, nor pause for a second.

When asked what was the reason for bearing this anguish, he said : “I thought of Hazrat Abu Bakr as-Siddeeq Radiallahu Anhu who thrust his feet into the remaining uncovered holes of the cave of Thaur (during the Hijrah) and because of the love in his heart for his beloved Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam (who had his Mubaaruk head laying on his lap), he never wavered, but bore the effects of the excruciating pain of the poisonous sting of the scorpion, within it. Even though I did not have the Mubaaruk head of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam in my lap, but I had the Ahadeeth of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam in my hand, and therefore I gave it respect…”.

… but he went on to say, “Inform me about Iman (faith)”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam answered : “It is that you believe in Allah and His Angels and His Books and His Messengers and in the Last Day, and in Divine Decree (Qadr), both in its good and in its evil.” He (the man)  said : “You have spoken the truth.” 

  • Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, explained Imaan, as, a Mu’min’s certitude in the belief of the six articles of faith : (1) the Tawheed (Oneness) of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala (with all His Attribute and Qualities); (2) His Angels; (3) His Divine Scriptures; (4) His Messengers (Alayhimus Salaam); (5) The Day of Reckoning and (6) His Divine Decree (Qadr), the good and the bad of it (all).

Then he (the man) said, “Inform me about Ihsaan”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam answered : “It is that you should worship Allah as though you could see Him, for though you cannot see Him yet He sees you” 

  • Ihsaan إحسان‎‎ is a very comprehensive term that can be translated as, ‘to beautify something’. Ihsaan is mentioned in a number of places in the Noble Qur’aan, with various meanings. In this particular Hadith, Ihsaan is defined as, performing every action with the awareness of Allah’s presence being felt in the heart, ie : one worships Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala as though one sees Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala … and if one cannot see Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala, then at least have the feeling that Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala is watching one.*

NOTE : * This sentence of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. can be understood as follows; Ihsaan is that you reach such a degree of devotion, sincerity, godliness, and awareness in your worship as well as in your very being and existence, that you obey Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala and worship Him with this state of mind, as though you are constantly seeing Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala Himself. Not only in Salaah, not only when you recite the Qur’an, not only when you engage in the Zikr (remembrance) of Allah but throughout your life you reach that level of awareness, devotion and concentration in your Ibaadah.

  • A contractor working on a construction site is responsible for supervising and overseeing his employees. The employees, under his ‘watchful eye’, assume responsibility and comply with their duties diligently. However, the moment the contractor is ‘out of sight’, the employees will perhaps become negligent and unconcerned with their work.

On the contrary, if they know, that even though they cannot see the contractor, but are still being monitored closely by security cameras on site, or he could secretly be observing them, then to avoid dismissal, they will automatically restrain themselves and be on guard.

Similarly, one must develop this obedience and high level of consciousness that Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala is watching us, through the spiritual stations of :

Mushaahadah (Witnessing) ~ using insight to become aware of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala with the eye of the heart,

and ;

Muraqabah ~ the state of consciousness that Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala is observing and watching, at all times.

Furthermore, the concept of Ihsaan can be seen very easily in the following stories :

1

A Sahaabi, Harithah Radiallahu Anhu was once sleeping in the musjid of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam awakens him and enquires : “O Harithah,”How have you risen this morning?”. Harithah Radiallahu Anhu replied : “I have risen as a true Believer (with strong and firm Imaan) today”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam contended, that for every statement and claim a person makes, there needs to be proof and further enquired : “This needs to be proved”. Harithah Radiallahu Anhu responded : “It is as though I can see the Arsh (throne) of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala in front of me … It is as though I can see the people of Jannah enjoying it’s bounties … It is as though I can see the people of Jahannam yelling and screaming for help!”. This was the high level of Harithah Radiallahu Anhu’s Ihsaan.

 

2

Hazrat Abdullah ibn Dinar Radiallahu Anhu said that he went for a journey to Makkah with Hazrat ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu. They stopped at some place. They saw a young shepherd with a flock of sheep. He came down from a hill. Hazrat ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu wanted to test the honesty of this shepherd.

He said to him : “Sell me one of your sheep”. The shepherd said : “I am a slave working for someone. These sheep are not mine they belong to my master”. Hazrat ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu said : “Tell your master that a wolf attacked and ate one of the sheep”. The shepherd replied : “Fa-ayn Allah? So where is Allah or what about Allah?”.

Hazrat ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu could not hold his tears when he heard this answer from the shepherd. He kept repeating “Fa-ayn Allah?” When he came back to Madinah Munawwarah, he sent someone to find out who was the master of this shepherd. He purchased the shepherd and freed him. Hazrat ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu thereafter said to the shepherd : “This word freed you in this life and I hope it will free you in the Hereafter”.

 Imaam Shaafi’i Rahmatullahi Alayh mentioned : When one is all alone, then do not say, ‘I am all alone’, remember that someone is watching is you”.

He (the man)  said, “Inform me about the Hour (Qiyaamah)”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said : “About that the one questioned knows no more than the questioner”. So He (the man) said, “Well, inform me about its signs”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said : “That the slave-girl will give birth to her mistress and that you will see the barefooted ones, naked, destitute, herdsmen of sheep (competing with each other) in raising lofty buildings”.

  • No one besides Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala knows when the Day of Judgement will occur. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam beautifully answered the last question of this Hadith, saying : “The one questioned about it (Qiyamah) knows no more about it (Qiyamah) than the one who questions”, meaning that both of us have no knowledge regarding the Hour. This indicates that Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala has exclusive knowledge of it.

Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala mentions this in the Noble Qur’aan :

يَسْأَلُونَكَ عَنِ السَّاعَةِ أَيَّانَ مُرْسَاهَا ۖ قُلْ إِنَّمَا عِلْمُهَا عِندَ رَبِّي ۖ

They ask you, [O Muhammad], about the Hour: when is its arrival? Say, “Its knowledge is only with my Lord. [Surah Al-A’raf 7:187]

 

Some of the minor signs of ‘the Hour’ mentioned in this Hadith :

  • 1. On account of mass wars people will be taken as slaves. The slave-girls who have given birth to their owners children will be sold by their owners. There will be so much selling of women that a woman’s daughter will later buy her and not realise it is her mother.  Hence, the one she gave birth to, will become her master.

or

  • It is indicative of disobedience to parents. Children will disobey their mothers, and a child will end up treating his/her own mother like a slave girl, showing her disdain, as though the child is her master.
  • 2. Poor barefooted shepherds will be in control of wealth and will not apply their minds. They will become engulfed in the love of the world and their only concern will be boastfully competing with one another in the construction and decoration of tall buildings (skyscrapers/ lofty structures). This sign means that affairs will be entrusted to the wrong people (those least qualified to be in high positions will become leaders) and as a result, they will squander wealth with extravagance.

“Thereupon the man went off. I waited a while, and then Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said : “O `Umar, do you know who that questioner was?” I (‘Umar) replied : “Allah and His Messenger know better”. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said : “That was Jibra’eel (Alayhis Salaam) He came to teach you your Deen (religion)”. 

After having asked Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam to explain the meaning of Islam, Imaan, Ihsaan and some of the signs of the Hour [Judgement Day], Jibra’eel Alayhis Salaam then left the gathering. The Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum were still unaware at that time that it was the Angel Jibreel (Alayhis Salaam) who had been asking the questions, because he had come to them in the form of a man.

Shortly afterwards, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam enquired from ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu, if he knew who the questioner was? ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu replied : “Allah and His Messenger know best”. This was the answer Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum would give, when they did not know the answer. They did not want to be held accountable for giving wrong answers, and with careful consideration, not say anything that came to their mind. They had the courage to admit that they did not know.

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam then told the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum, that it was the Angel Jibreel (Alayhis Salaam) who had come to them, in order to teach them about their Deen (religion). Deen is a combination of  Islam ~ Imaan ~ Islam.

This incident occurred in the latter part of the life of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, to teach the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum, what Deen is about, practically and theoretically.

LESSON TWO | 40 Ahâdeeth | Arba’een | of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه

bismillahh

 

•   LESSON TWO   •   DOWNLOAD AUDIO > Hadith 1 | Sincerity of Intention |إِنَّمَا الْأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ Innamal a’malu binniyat : Actions are judged by their Intentions    |   DOWNLOAD NOTES > PDF

Lessons from Ahâdeeth Shareef by Moulana Naeem Motala  | Commentary on 40 ahâdeeth | Arba’een | of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه with emphasis on perfecting one’s character

|   LESSON TWO   |

اَلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ نَحْمَدُهُ وَنَسْتَعِينُهُ وَنَسْتَغْفِرُهُ وَنُؤمِنُ بِهِ وَ نَتَوَ كَّلُ عَلَيهِ ، وَنَعُوْذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنْ شُرُوْرِ أَنْفُسِنَا وَمِنْ سَيِّئَاتِ أَعْمَالِنَا، مَنْ يَهْدِهِ اللَّهُ فَلاَ مُضِلَّ لَهُ وَمَنْ يُضْلِلْ فَلاَ هَادِيَ لَهُ ، وَنَشْهَدُ أَنْ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ ، وَنَشْهَدُ أَنَّ سَيِّدَناَ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ 

Verily all praise is for Allah, we praise Him and seek His aid and ask for His forgiveness and we believe in Him and we place our trust upon Him, and we seek refuge with Allah from the evils of ourselves and our evil actions. Whomsoever Allah guides there is none who can misguide him, and whomsoever Allah misguides there is none who can guide him, and we bear witness that none has the right to be worshiped except Allah alone, having no partner, and we bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger

اَللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى سَيِّدِناَ مُحَمَّدٍ ، وَعَلَى آلِ سَيِّدِناَ مُحَمَّدٍ وَبَارِكْ وَسَلِّمْ

Allahumma Salli ‘ala Sayyidina Muhammad Wa’ala Aali Sayyidina Muhammadin Wa Baarik Wa Sallim | Oh Allah shower blessings and peace upon our Master Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam and upon the family of Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam


|  HADITH 1  |

 NIYYAH |  SINCERITY OF INTENTION

 

إِنَّمَا الْأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ

عَنْ أَمِيرِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ أَبِي حَفْصٍ عُمَرَ بْنِ الْخَطَّابِ رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ قَالَ: سَمِعْتُ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم يَقُولُ: ” إنَّمَا الْأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ، وَإِنَّمَا لِكُلِّ امْرِئٍ مَا نَوَى، فَمَنْ كَانَتْ هِجْرَتُهُ إلَى اللَّهِ وَرَسُولِهِ فَهِجْرَتُهُ إلَى اللَّهِ وَرَسُولِهِ، وَمَنْ كَانَتْ هِجْرَتُهُ لِدُنْيَا يُصِيبُهَا أَوْ امْرَأَةٍ يَنْكِحُهَا فَهِجْرَتُهُ إلَى مَا هَاجَرَ إلَيْهِ”.

رَوَاهُ إِمَامَا الْمُحَدِّثِينَ أَبُو عَبْدِ اللهِ مُحَمَّدُ بنُ إِسْمَاعِيل بن إِبْرَاهِيم بن الْمُغِيرَة بن بَرْدِزبَه الْبُخَارِيُّ، وَأَبُو الْحُسَيْنِ مُسْلِمٌ بنُ الْحَجَّاج بن مُسْلِم الْقُشَيْرِيُّ النَّيْسَابُورِيُّ فِي “صَحِيحَيْهِمَا” اللذَينِ هُمَا أَصَحُّ الْكُتُبِ الْمُصَنَّفَةِ 

Ameer al-Mu’mineen Abu Hafs ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu narrated : I heard Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam say:

“Verily actions are only dependant on intentions, and everyone will get what he intended. Whosoever migrates with an intention for Allah and His Messenger, the migration will be for the sake of Allah and his Messenger. And whoever migrates for any worldly gain, then he will attain it, or to a woman then he will marry her, so his migration will be for the sake of whatever he migrated for.”

[Saheeh Bukhaari] [Saheeh Muslim]

 

‘UMAR BIN AL-KHATTAAB | NARRATOR

إِنَّمَا الْأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّات  is the first Hadeeth of the Arba’een of Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh. It highlights the essence and importance of having a correct Niyyah (Intention).

Umar was his real name. He was the son of Khattaab, and therefore known as عمر بن الخطاب ‘Umar ibnul Khattaab. The second of the four Rightly Guided Khulafaa, his Khilaafah lasted for 10 years, 6 months and 5 days after succeeding the Khilaafah of Hazrat Abu Bakr as-Siddeeq Radiallahu Anhu. His nobility earned him the title of Ameer al-Mu’mineen أمير المؤمنين (Leader of the Believers). He was previously called Khalifa-tu-Khalifa-ti-Rasulillah ﷺ (Vicegerent of the Messenger of Allah) and was one of the ten companions, to be given the glad tidings of a promised Jannah in one sitting of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. Due to his courageous and strong personality, he was given the laqab (cognomen/nickname) Abu Hafs أبو حفص  (hafs meaning lion in Arabic). Yet another title conferred to this honourable leader, was Al-Farooq الفاروق (The one who distinguishes between truth and falsehood). Born in 583 CE and breathed his last in 644 CE, he was a man of equality; good governance ; justice ; tolerance ; wisdom ; compassion and leadership, from the time he accepted Islam until his death.

Unbeknown to ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu, prior to embracing Islam, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam made the following Du’aa to Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala : 

اللَّهُمَّ أَعِزَّ الإِسْلاَمَ بِأَحَبِّ هَذَيْنِ الرَّجُلَيْنِ إِلَيْكَ بِأَبِي جَهْلٍ أَوْ بِعُمَرَ بْنِ الْخَطَّابِ

“O Allah!  Strengthen Islam with whichever of these two men is more beloved to You : Through Abu Jahl or through ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab…” [Jami`at-Tirmidhi]

Consequently, in the sixth year of Nabuwwah (prophecy), Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala granted Islam and Imaan to ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu. After accepting Islam*, ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu, publicly and fearlessly proclaimed his faith. His courage and bold actions strengthened and boosted the morale of the Muslims, who had until then, been forced to worship in the secrecy of Darul Arqam.

* NOTE : ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu coming into Islam [Refer to : Faza’il-e-A’maal Part 1 : Stories Of The Sahaabah / Chapter 1 : Steadfastness in the face of hardships]

‘Umar ibnul Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu had abundant knowledge and Tafaqquh (profound understanding) of Qur’aan and Sunnah. He was most humble and lived a life paired with, justice and truth, strength and courage, asceticism and piety.

Some distinct qualities that attest to the character of ‘Umar Radiallahu Anhu, was that Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala made Haq (truth) flow from his tongue. Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala illuminated his heart with Firasah (Spiritual Foresight) and his sharp insight and contributions in furthering the cause of Islam was unparalleled.

He narrated 539 Ahadeeth of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. On very many occasions, when Mashwarah (consultation) was made and different views were taken, whatever ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu advised, was exactly what Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala desired. Verses of the Noble Qur’aan were revealed according to suggestions of ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu.

When the mantle of Khilaafah had fallen on his shoulders, as Ameer al-Mu’mineen, he was so conscientious not to transgress the rights of individuals and he shed tears, day and night, saying : As the Leader of the Believers … if I will be ‘just’ with matters and affairs of the people, then too, my Hisaab Kitaab (reckoning) will be taken… and, if I ‘oppress’ them, then too, I will be punished.

He established the pillars of justice within his governance and his primary concern was always for the benefit of people, with special empathy and consideration for the weak, sick, orphans and the poor. Coupled with these sensibilities, was ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu’s boldness and confidence that characterized his leadership, and made even Shaytaan fear him. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam mentioned in a Hadeeth :

مَا لَقِيَكَ الشَّيْطَانُ قَطُّ سَالِكًا فَجًّا إِلاَّ سَلَكَ فَجًّا غَيْرَ فَجِّكَ

… whenever Shaytaan sees you (‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu) taking a path, he follows a path other than yours.”[Saheeh Bukhaari]

 

AN AMAZING INCIDENT

Amongst the many Karaamaat (miracles) of ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu, was an amazing incident that stood out. 

Once, an army had been despatched by ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu to one of the neighbouring countries, with the Ameer being a man named ‘Saariyah’ commanding the force. Whilst fighting the enemy (near a mountain), the Muslim army were being attacked, from in front of them and from behind them.

At the time, ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu, was in Madinah Munawwarah delivering the Khutbah on the day of Jumu’ah. Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala revealed the scene of the battlefield to him. It became manifest to him, that the enemy were defeating the Muslims, and that if they put the mountain behind them, they would fight on one front only. ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu began to cry out on the mimbar, “Saariyah, the mountain!” three times.

Saariyah, came a month later and mentioned that their army was being defeated and in that situation they heard a voice crying out from afar, “Saariyah, the mountain! ” three times. Saariyah said, “We turned towards the mountain, and Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala gave us victory.”

 

MARTYRDOM

Throughout his Khilaafah, ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu made Du’a to Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala :

اللَّهُمَّ ارْزُقْنِي شَهَادَةً فِي سَبِيلِكَ، وَاجْعَلْ مَوْتِي فِي بَلَدِ رَسُولِكَ صلى الله عليه وسلم‏

O Allah! Bless me with the death of a Martyr (in Your cause), and let my death be in the city of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. [Saheeh Bukhaari]

Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala is indeed kind to whom He wishes and accepted these two requests from him. While standing in the dawn prayer (Fajr) one day, he was stabbed by Abu Lu’lu Al-Fayruz, who was a slave of Mugheerah bin Shu’bah. This Majusi (fire-worshipper), stabbed ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu three times, with a dagger of two poisonous blades. He fell down bleeding copiously. Three days later, he succumbed to his wounds and left this world. He is buried in Madinah Munawwarah, in the Hujrah Mubarakah (house of Sayiddina Ayesha Radiallahu Anha), beside his blessed Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, and his companion Abu Bakr as-Siddeeq Radiallahu Anhu.

It is mentioned : The day ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu passed away, Madinah Munawwarah became dark …”. So much so, that a little child asked his father : Has Qiyaamah begun? ”. The father replied : No my son, Umar has just left this world …”.

This was a glimpse of the life of ‘Umar bin al-Khattaab Radiallahu Anhu.

 

INNAMAL A’MAALU BINNIYAAT |إِنَّمَا الْأَعْمَالُ بِالنِّيَّاتِ

This is an extremely comprehensive, rich, and beneficial Hadith. Imam Bukhaari Rahmatullahi Alayh selected ‘Innamal a’maalu binniyaat’ as his first hadith and introduction to the whole collection of Saheeh Bukhaari Shareef. And, this Hadith appears in 7 different places within various chapters of Saheeh Bukhaari. 

In Arabic, the word ‘Innama’ إِنَّمَا is used for restriction (Hasr), meaning ‘only’. In the first sentence of this Hadith, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam has explained to us that, verily, ‘actions are only judged by their intentions’. Our attention is immediately brought to the fact that our intentions need to be correct and ‘pure’.

Therefore, the one who is seeking (Taalib), the one who is listening and also the one who is reading the book, corrects his intention solely for the pleasure of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala. It reminds the author of sincerity and also warns the reader that good and noble deeds inculcated by the Hadith found therein, will only bear fruit if there is sincerity attached to their intentions and would be worthless if the motive is not sincere.

 

 

THE HIJRAH

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum were often subjected to abuse and persecution by the Mushrikeen (polytheists) of Makkah Mukarammah. Many Muslims were killed and tortured ; Sumayya bint Khabbab Radiallahu Anha was ripped apart with a spear place in the intimate parts of her body ; Bilal ibn Rabah Radiallahu Anhu was placed on the intense heat of the desert sand and whipped and beaten ; and even Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam was not spared from such abuse with the entrails of a sacrificed camel thrown on him whilst praying at the Kaabah.

A time came, when Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala commanded Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam to leave the Land of Kuffar and journey to the Land of Imaan. After receiving divine direction, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam stood on a hillock and he turned his face towards Makkah saying : Oh Makkah I love you, had it not been for your people (the Mushrikeen), I would have never left you …”.

The Muhaajiroon (muslim emigrants) along with their great sacrifices, secretly began leaving Makkah Mukarammah and embarked on Hijrah (migration) to Madinah Munawwarah. Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala had kept tremendous reward for those who made this Hijrah.

Amongst those who made the Hijrah, was one particular Sahaabi (Radiallahu Anhu), who wanted to marry a woman named Umm Qais, but she refused to marry him unless he would migrate from Makkah to Madinah. Therefore, he migrated in order to marry her. And, because his intention was not for Islam, nor for the sake of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala, he was only rewarded with a worldly thing. But, if he made the intention solely for Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala, his reward would have been much much greater.

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and his Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum were so sincere and kind, that they overlooked and concealed the mistakes of others, and therefore, the name of this particular Sahaabi (Radiallahu Anhu) was never mentioned.

NIYYAH |  THE IMPORTANCE OF INTENTION

Ikhlaasإخلاص  means ‘to free something’ ~ Ikhlaas (Sincerity) is the freeing of one’s Niyyah (intention) from all impurities in order to gain closeness to Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala, exclusively for His pleasure. Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala mentions in the Noble Qur’aan that Ikhlaas and Niyyah (sincere intentions) is a pre-condition of acceptance of good deeds :

وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ

 And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion [Surah Al-Bayyinah 98:5]

 

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam mentioned in a Hadeeth :

إِنَّ اللَّهَ لاَ يَنْظُرُ إِلَى صُوَرِكُمْ وَأَمْوَالِكُمْ وَلَكِنْ يَنْظُرُ إِلَى قُلُوبِكُمْ وَأَعْمَالِكُمْ

 Verily, Allah does not look at your appearance or wealth but rather he looks to your hearts and deeds (actions). [Saheeh Muslim]

 

Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala is well aware of what is hidden in the hearts. Free your heart and free your intention from everybody else besides Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala. There must not be a speck of insincerity in our heart.

The nature of our intentions should be purely and solely for the pleasure of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala. Any action we do must be pleasing to Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala and Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and in conformity of the Shariah.

A righteous man used to address himself and say : Oh Nafs! Inculcate ‘sincerity’ within yourself and be pure, so that you may be freed and liberated from the fire”.

 

NIYYAT BETTER THAN ACTIONS | نية المؤمن خير من عمله

Actions depend on intentions. If the intention is good, and for sake of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala the action will also be good and acceptable, otherwise, if the intention is depraved, the action will also be depraved and rejected in the court of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala. 

The excellence of Niyyat is such a thing that there is no pretence in it. Thus it is better than action, because in action there is a possibility of pretence of piety.

Whenever you do a good deed you should purify your intention beforehand. After that, if there remains any doubt it should be understood that this doubt is from Shaytaan and in this way he is obstructing from doing good deed.

 From this, it is clear that the intention of a Mu`min (Believer) is better than his action.

IKHLAAS |  SINCERITY

There are two important ingredients for the acceptance of any Amal (action) performed ; adhering to the Sunnah and implementing Sincerity.

Sincerity (Ikhlaas) is characterised by actions done solely for the pleasure of the Creator, Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala, and not with the intention of pleasing creation, or showing off one’s good deeds to win praise, or seeking admiration of others, ie : Riyaa (show and ostentation).

An Analogy discussed > The roots of a tree are hidden beneath the soil. The presence of roots give rise to the sprouting of branches, leaves and fruit. If the roots are destroyed, the entire tree will decay and become decomposed and will not flourish. Similarly, the roots of the tree represent Ikhlaas … Ikhlaas is the root of all our A’maal (deeds and actions).

One must conceal one’s deeds (like the roots of a tree) to develop Ikhlaas. When Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala loves a person’s action (done with Ikhlaas) then He will bring it to the attention of people without the person striving for it through show (Riya). In Deen we require this Ikhfaa (concealment) and must hide our deeds, and not do things for show and ostentation. Do all your worship in private and conceal it like you would conceal sins.

Yaqoob Alayhis Salaam said: The sign of a sincere person is that he makes as much an effort at concealing his virtuous acts, as he would do for his evil deeds”.

However, we should not let fear of Riya take us to the other extreme and prevent us from doing good deeds. There are also times when we have to perform deeds in public. The example given is of a person who is travelling, and the time for Salaah has set in. One is not going to to hide and read one’s Salaah. If one performs Salaah openly then disbelievers might see the beauty of Salaah and it will be an invitation towards Deen.

These deeds performed privately and in public (solely for the pleasure of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala) together with Ikhlaas (the concealed ‘roots’) brings about the beauty of Islam.

‘Ilm (knowledge) is the seed and Amal (actions) are the crops that grow.

And, the water is Ikhlaas (Sincerity)


ACQUIRING IKHLAAS

When a person inculcates within him, the love of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala and his concern is exclusively to please Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala, then he will negate from his heart, everything besides Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala. In this way, Ikhlaas can be achieved.

On the Day of Qiyamah, we will be questioned by Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala and be held accountable for our deeds.

There are many Qur’aanic verses and Ahaadith that tell us about these events so that the believers will prepare themselves for the most important, final test and Al-Hisaab (accountability) with their strong Imaan and “sincere” righteous deeds.

On day of Qiyamah, a certain person will see so much of good deeds written for him that he definitely did not perform in this world, eg : extra Haj/ Zakaat etc ; but because he had a genuine and sincere intention, he will still be rewarded.

Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal Rahmatullahi Alayh advised his son : Make good sincere intentions….you will always be in (khair) blessings”.

 

1

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam mentioned in a very lengthy Hadeeth regarding three types of people who will be summoned before Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala on the Day of Resurrection. He spoke of a man who had died as a Martyr  (Shaheed) ; a man who had acquired and imparted knowledge and read the Qur’an (Aalim and Qaari) ; and a generous man to whom Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala had given plenty of wealth. They will all be brought forward and questioned regarding their intentions of their good actions in the world. Allah will remind them of the favours He had bestowed upon them and the men will acknowledge them. However, due to doing the action for the sake of people and to seek their admiration, the command will then be issued for these people to be dragged and thrown into Jahannum. [Saheeh Muslim]

2 

There is a famous Hadith, in which Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam mentioned an incident with three people who remembered Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala and followed His commands when they were free from any troubles, and Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala saved them when they were in distress.

These three people were trapped in a cave, because a rock had covered the entrance, but, due to them performing sincere deeds in their life, Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala, relieved them from their distress and caused the rock to move aside, and they got out freely. [Saheeh Bukhaari]

This Hadith highlights the importance of doing noble and virtuous deeds with sincerity. In every righteous deed, one should seek only the Pleasure of Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala. A deed which is performed without sincerity will not be accepted by Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala.

  

3

In another Hadith, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam mentioned :”There are seven whom Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala  will shade in His Shade on the Day of Qiyamah.

(1) A Just Ruler ; (2) A youth who grew up in the worship of Allah ; (3) A man whose heart is attached to the musjid ; (4) Two men who love each other for Allah’s sake, meeting for that and parting upon that ; (5) A man who is called by a woman of beauty and position but he says: ‘I fear Allah’ ; (6) A man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity. [Saheeh Bukhaari]

The last person in this Hadith, describes the type of person who gives Sadaqah with his right hand and the left does not know, He goes to great lengths to protect himself from Riyaa (ie : doing deeds in order to earn the praise and recognition of people). This sin (Riyaa) destroys all the rewards that lie in all righteous deeds. Therefore, great care has to be taken to ensure that one’s intentions begin and remain pure whenever good actions are being done.

Ibn Al-Qayyim Rahmatullahi Alayh said : Deeds without sincerity are like a traveller who carries ‘sand and stones’ in his leather bag instead of provisions (food and drink). The carrying of it burdens him and it brings no benefit.”

May Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala make us all to follow those, whose deeds are done in accordance with the Sunnah, deeds that are done sincerely for the sake of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala.

 

DUA FOR PROTECTION FROM MINOR SHIRK | RIYA

Riya (ostentation) is the doing of good actions for show, name, fame or recognition. One should make the following Dua :

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ أَنْ أُشْرِكَ بِكَ وَأَنَا أَعْلَمُ، وَأَسْتَغْفِرُكَ لِمَا لاَ أَعْلَمُ

O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowingly associating partners with You,

and I seek Your forgiveness for that which I do not know. [Al Adab ul-Mufrad]

LESSON ONE | 40 Ahâdeeth | Arba’een | of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه

bismillahh

•   LESSON ONE   • DOWNLOAD AUDIO > Introduction | Brief Biography of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه    |   DOWNLOAD NOTES > PDF

Lessons from Ahâdeeth Shareef by Moulana Naeem Motala  | Commentary on 40 ahâdeeth | Arba’een | of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه with emphasis on perfecting one’s character

|   LESSON ONE   |

اَلْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ نَحْمَدُهُ وَنَسْتَعِينُهُ وَنَسْتَغْفِرُهُ وَنُؤمِنُ بِهِ وَ نَتَوَ كَّلُ عَلَيهِ ، وَنَعُوْذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنْ شُرُوْرِ أَنْفُسِنَا وَمِنْ سَيِّئَاتِ أَعْمَالِنَا، مَنْ يَهْدِهِ اللَّهُ فَلاَ مُضِلَّ لَهُ وَمَنْ يُضْلِلْ فَلاَ هَادِيَ لَهُ ، وَنَشْهَدُ أَنْ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ ، وَنَشْهَدُ أَنَّ سَيِّدَناَ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ

Verily all praise is for Allah, we praise Him and seek His aid and ask for His forgiveness and we believe in Him and we place our trust upon Him, and we seek refuge with Allah from the evils of ourselves and our evil actions. Whomsoever Allah guides there is none who can misguide him, and whomsoever Allah misguides there is none who can guide him, and we bear witness that none has the right to be worshiped except Allah alone, having no partner, and we bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger

اَللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى سَيِّدِناَ مُحَمَّدٍ ، وَعَلَى آلِ سَيِّدِناَ مُحَمَّدٍ وَبَارِكْ وَسَلِّمْ
Allahumma Salli ‘ala Sayyidina Muhammad Wa’ala Aali Sayyidina Muhammadin Wa Baarik Wa Sallim | Oh Allah shower blessings and peace upon our Master Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam and upon the family of Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam


Introduction

Arba’een أَرْبَعِينَ in Arabic means ‘40’ and ‘Nawawi’ refers to Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh. This Hadeeth kitaab is a comprehensive collection of 40 authentic Ahaadeeth of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam compiled by Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه

Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh mentions with regard to his Arba’een, that the main point of consideration in the compilation of these all encompassing, all embracing Ahaadeeth, is that, they convey some important Usool (principle) of Deen, upon which the pivot of Islam rotates. If one observes carefully, there are actually 42 Ahaadeeth gathered in total in his compilation.

Many other famous Muhadditheen, were compilers of their Arba’een as well. The first being the great Aalim, jurist, faqeeh, Abdullah bin Mubaruk Rahmatullahi Alayh. Other Arba’een Kitaabs include well known authors namely ; Daraquthni, Haakim (Mustadrak). They composed Arba’een of some specific Usool (fundamental) of Deen pertaining to specific topics eg: 40 Ahaadeeth on Salaah; 40 Ahaadeeth relating to Zuhd (asceticism) ; 40 Ahaadeeth on Adaab (Islamic etiquette) etc.

In every Islamic period, scholars have compiled innumerable Arba’een’s, however, till today, Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala has granted this renowned kitaab of Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh special acceptance.

Mufti Shafee Saheb Rahmatullahi Alayh mentioned that Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh has compiled these Ahaadeeth, because he realised that there is decay in our environment and hence, has brought such Ahaadeeth that will show the prevention and cure from the problems that the Ummah is suffering from.


Why Specifically 40 Ahaadeeth?

قال رَسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : من حفظ على أمتي أربعين حديثاً من أمر دينها،
بعثه الله تعالى يوم القيامة في زمرة الفقهاء والعلماء

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said :“Whosoever memorizes and preserves for my people (Ummah) forty hadith concerning matters of it’s religion, Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala will resurrect him on the Day of Judgment in the company of jurists and religious scholars.” (Kanz ul-`Ummāl)

Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh commenced, with attributing this specific Hadith of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, outlining the noteworthy virtues of a person who memorises and preserves 40 Ahaadeeth, as one of his reasons for his compilation of the Arba’een.

The Hadith mentioning the merits of preserving the 40 Ahaadeeth has been narrated by the following illustrious Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum : Ali bin Abi Taalib Radiallahu Anhu ; Abdullah bin Mas’ood Radiallahu Anhu ; Muadh bin Jabal Radiallahu Anhu ; Abu Darda Radiallahu Anhu ; Ibnu Umar Radiallahu Anhuma ; Ibnu Abbaas Radiallahu Anhuma ; Anas bin Maalik Radiallahu Anhu ; Abu Hurairah Radiallahu Anhu and Abu Sa’eed Al Khudri Radiallahu Anhu.

Other narrations, that mention further merits, are as follows : Whosoever from my Ummah memorizes forty Ahaadeeth regarding matters pertaining their Deen ;

بعثه الله يوم القيامة فقيهاً عالماً
• Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala will resurrect him on the Day of Judgment as a jurist and religious scholar.

كنت له شفيعا أو شهيدا يوم القيامة
 On the Day of Judgment, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam shall be an intercessor or a witness for him.

 كتب في زمرة العلماء وحشر في جملة الشهداء
• He will be written in the company of religious scholars and he will be resurrected with the group of martyrs.

 قيل له: ادخل من أي أبواب الجنة شئت
• It will be said to him by Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala : Enter by whichever of the doors of paradise you wish.

NOTE : Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh and the vast majority of scholars have mentioned that this Hadith is da’if (weak). However, they have agreed, that this Hadith has gained strength due to it being narrated via various chains of narrations, and has been accepted by very many Muhadditheen.

The Ulema explain, that a da’if (weak) Hadith does not imply that the Hadith should be discarded. One can acknowledge and use weak Ahaadeeth’s highlighting Fadhaail (virtuous deeds), with conditions.

Indeed, a Hadith which is maudu (fabricated) can never be accepted and is rejected.


Brief Biography of Imaam Nawawi رحمة الله عليه

(631-676 A.H)

Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh was one of the foremost scholars of the Shafi’i Madhab. His title was Muhyiddin (reviver of Deen) and his complete name is Abu Zakaria Yahya ibn Sharaf An-Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh. He was born in 631 A.H in the month of Muharram at Nawa in Hauraan, close to Damascus (Syria), and passed away at the age of 45, on the 24th of Rajab 676 A.H.

Despite his short and limited life span, he was incredibly productive and able to achieve great contributions towards Deen, with his compilations of vast volumes of scholarly books and academic works. His lasting legacy through his momentous works, some of which include, these 40 Arba’een, the famous Riyadh as-Saaliheen and a commentary on Sahih Muslim, have made him respected in all Madhabs, despite him being of Shafi’i jurisprudence.

From a very young age he showed signs of great intelligence, and other boys of his age used to force him to play with them, but Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh would always avoid play and would remain busy with the recitation of the Noble Qur’aan. When they tried to domineer and insisted on his joining their games, he bewailed and expressed his no concern over their foolish actions saying to them : “Have we been created for this purpose?”.

Before attaining puberty, Imam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh memorized the Noble Qur’aan, and in his early teens, on account of his endless thirst for knowledge, pursued his studies at Madrasah Rawahiyah in Damascus and acquired knowledge of Imaam Abu Is-haq al-Shirazi’s, Al-Muhazzab. Amongst memorizing many other kitaabs, his intelligence, hard work, love, devotion and absorption in his studies, amazed his teachers and they became fond of him and began to praise and admire him.

Once, whilst studying Ilm-e-Deen, a thought came to Imam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh to study a course in medicine. He mentioned : “I purchased a copy of the ‘Qanun’ of Ibn Sina and began to study it, whereupon darkness filled my heart … Upon realizing that this was not meant for me, I again devoted time and attention to gaining knowledge of Ilm-e-Deen, which brightened my heart again! ”.

To understand the caliber of this Zaahid (ascetic), we discover that he did not live a luxurious or ostentatious life but instead followed the way of the Sahaabah Radiallahu Anhum and opted for a simple life. His clothes consisted of a small turban and patched garments. He sufficed on just one simple meal for the day. As a routine, he used to sleep very little at night and spent the hours of darkness studying and drinking from the fountains of Qur’aan, Ahaadeeth and Fiqh.

His famous student, Imam Ibn al-‘Attar Rahmatullahi Alayh has mentioned : “I had seen such great qualities in An-Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh, that if I had to compile all these talents and virtues in him, it will not be held within one book but will require volumes …”

Imaam Al-Yafee Rahmatullahi Alayh has mentioned in his kitaab, Miraat-al-Jinaan, that : “It is very difficult to find a person parallel to Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh, in his Zuhd (becoming aloof from the world), in his piety, in his etiquettes, in his beautiful character …”

Taj al-Din al-Subki Rahmatullahi Alayh, in his masterpiece Tabaqat-Al-Shaafi’iyyah, (a compilation of the biographies of the a great Shaafi’i scholars), has mentioned : “Eyes have not seen a greater Zahid (ascetic) than Imaam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh…”

There was no extravagance in his life and he broke himself from the attractions of the world to such an extent that in addition to this modest lifestyle, he never married, for fear of the responsibilities of Nikah and not being able to fulfil the rights of a wife, taking him away from his engrossment in studies.

During his studies, Imam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh embarked on Hajj with his father. Departing from Shaam (Syria), they proceeded to Madinah Munawwarah, where they spent a month and then to Makkah Mukarramah on pilgrimage. For the entire duration of the journey, Imam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh was ailing and extremely ill with fever. His father mentioned that he never complained, even once! Such was the excellent Akhlaaq (character) portrayed by this great servant of Islam.

He adorned his life with Taqwa (piety) of a very high level ; forbearance ; sacrifice ; humility ; simplicity ; spending his time correctly ; remaining in solitude and aloof from the world ; contemplating on the Akhirah ; focusing and turning to Allah Subhaanahu Wa Ta’ala ; acquiring knowledge and imparting Deen and making Amr bil Maroof and Nahi anil Munkar (enjoining good and forbidding wrong).

He was a beacon of guidance and was unanimously accepted and praised by the scholars of his time and even those after him. He had distinctive commendable qualities as a person, and scholars have written that people as far as the east and west have born testimony to his virtue and knowledge, good character, piety and honesty that stood against, even the Kings and judges of the time. He was fearless in addressing those in power and admonished those in authority when they were unjust and cruel or exceeded the limits of Shariah.

He was once summoned by one of the Kings and told to sign a document, passing a verdict, in which there was a Fatwa (ruling) legalizing something that was Haraam in Islamic law. Imam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh refused. The King became furious and told his subordinates to strip this man of his rank. The people said : “Oh King! This man has no high standing for us to demote him from …”. The King further ordered that this person be removed from his dwelling and to raze it to the ground. The people said : “Oh King! This man has no home … He lives in Dar-ul-Hadith in a small room …”. The King further ordered that the wealth and riches of this person be seized. The people said : “Oh King! This man has no money and owns nothing …”.

“That person who owns nothing, nothing can own him”

Imam Nawawi Rahmatullahi Alayh had the goal of Aakhirah in front of him, and clearly understood that we are all travellers on this journey from Dunya which is Faaniyah (transient) towards Aakhirah which is Baaqiyah (everlasting). And therefore, he mentioned, that the essence of the choice of Ahaadeeth in his kitaab ‘Riyadh as-Saaliheen’, centred around the theme of Tazkiyah-al-Nafs (purification of the self) and Tahzeeb-ul-Akhlaaq (polishing of the heart), for the betterment of humankind.

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