ISLAMIC NOTES: From The Prophet Muhammad's Marriages

From the blessed marriages of the Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu ‘alaihi wa sallam to the following noble women, we learn that:

~ To Khadijah bint Khuwailid: a Muslim man may marry his female boss/employer/manager, an older woman -a woman who is several years older than him, a woman of higher economical status or is richer than him

~ To Sawdaa bint Zam’ah: a Muslim man marry a woman who is plump / overweight / heavier than him, a woman who is of darker skin tone, a woman of a different racial background

~ To ‘Aisha bint Abu Bakr: a Muslim man may marry a virgin, a woman who is several years younger than him

~ To Hafsa bint Umar bin Al-Khattaab: A Muslim man may marry his friend’s daughter, a young widow

~ To Zainab bint Khuzaimah: A Muslim man may marry the half-sister of another wife, a Muslim man may get married in the Holy Month of Ramadan while sticking to the rules of fasting

~ To Zainab bint Jahsh: A Muslim man may marry the divorced wife of an adopted son (not the real son), a divorced woman, or a Muslim may have wives who share the same first name

~ To Umm Salama Hind bint Abu Umayyah: A Muslim man may marry a woman who already has children from her previous husband(s), an older widow

~ To Juwairiyah bint Al-Harith: A Muslim man may marry his maid servant, employee or one from a lower social background

~ To Umm Salama Hind bint Abu Umayyah, Umm Habiba Ramla bint Abu Sufyan and Juwairiyah bint Al-Harith: A Muslim man marry the daughter of an ‘enemy’ or someone who may hate him in order to form peace and friendly relations between them

To Umm Habiba Ramla bint Abu Sufyan: A Muslim's marriage may take place in absentia, whose wife may live in a different city/country

~ To Maimoonah bint Al-Harith: A Muslim man may marry a woman who assertively asks him for his marriage, a woman in Islam can propose to a Muslim she likes not directly but through a mutual friend or even parent

~ To Maariyah Al-Qubtiyyah: A Muslim man may marry a woman of lower economical status, who is less wealthy, and a woman who is a Christian who may someday inshaAllah become Muslim

~ To Safiyya bint Huyayy: a Muslim man may marry a Jewess/Jewish woman who may someday inshaAllah become Muslim

Regarding marriage in Islam: 

1. A Muslim man can marry a Muslim, Christian or Jew and no one else of other beliefs, while a Muslim woman can only be married to a true Muslim.

2. In Islam, a Muslim can be married up to four wives on condition that he treats all of his wives fairly. Marrying up to four is allowed in Islam to prevent adultery, divorce and so that all women get to be legally married to a man since the number of women on earth are greater than that of men. Allah knows best.

3. A Muslim woman cannot be married without her agreement and permission. Thus, there is no forced marriages in Islam.

 

4. A righteous Muslim woman is among the best treasures a Muslim can have.

5. Why did the Messenger Muhammad sallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam marry more than four? To teach Muslims whom they are allowed to marry in Islam. Allah knows best :)

May Allah the Most Merciful accept all our good deeds and forgive our faults. Ameen~

ISLAMIC NOTES: Du'a For Someone Who Shared Some Food Or Drinks

One of the signs of a true friend is that they not only like you and care for you but they also honor and like the ones you cherish/love, such as your family. Likewise, If you really love Allah, then you would try your best to show your love at all times to His beloved Messenger Muhammad (SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam) by regularly following his Sunnah/tradition, for the sake of Allah.

Allah knows best. It is a Sunnah to always pray for the host, as their Muslim guest, or for the one who feeds you for Allah's sake. So when someone offers you something to eat or drink and gives you food or some drinks, even a glass of water, it is good manners to pray for them, saying:

In Arabic:

"Allahumma At'em man at'amany wasqi man saqaani. Ameen."

Its English meaning:

"O' Allah, give food to the one who gave me food, and give drink to the one who gave me drink. Amen."

There are a few occasions when a host serves you food in a way that you may think is 'extravagant' or 'too much', that sometimes you feel so obliged to return their extreme generosity and favors. To do that you can insha-Allah say a sincere du'a for them:

In Arabic:

"Allahumma baarik lahum feema razaqtahum, waghfur lahum warhamhum. Ameen."

Its English meaning:

"O' Allah, bless them in what You (Allah) have provided for them, and forgive them and have mercy on them. Amen."

Saying the above du'a/supplications is very much similar to praying,

"O' Allah (God), whoever gives me food, give them food;

whoever gives me drink, give them drink;

whoever shows kindness and mercy to me, be Kind to them too and be Always Merciful;

whoever makes me smile, bless their days with smiles;

whoever does good to me, O' Allah do good to them too."

Allah knows best.

Similar Topic: SHARING FOOD for Allah's sake

TIP: When supplicating or making du'a (whether your du'a is for yourself, for a brother/sister-in-Islam, or for all Muslims) you don't have to say your du'as loudly so that others can hear what you're saying. Allah is the All-Knowing and All-Hearing who knows your innermost thoughts and feelings. So you don't have to be all "I want to make du'a for my hosts but I'm shy that they might hear me or if they hear me supplicating for them they might think I'm showing off."

Also, keep in mind that whenever you sincerely pray for a fellow Muslim, an angel near you always says something like 'for you likewise' meaning, the good du'a you prayed for your Muslim brother/sister will also be returned to you. Allah knows best.

~Wasalaam

www.wisdom.edu.ph

Wisdom Islamic School

POEM: Take Some Time To Contemplate & Questions To Ask Yourself

When you find yourself alone, sit and think.
Be calm, knowing that God is by your side.
Let your soul question, and your ego shrink.
Ask yourself questions – with answers that guide –

All that you did since you were born till now,
Were most of them good? Done to please Allah?
Can they save you on Judgment Day somehow?
Or do you still need to go very far?

What good deed can you do to please Allah?
Are the intentions of your deeds all clean?
How do you share your knowledge of Islam?
Is some of your ‘pride’ affecting your deen?

More questions like these should be asked each day –
For Allah’s guidance we must contemplate.        

~Written by Mariam Mababaya
www.wisdom.edu.ph
Wisdom Islamic School                    

Some Questions To Ask Yourself Before Going To Bed:

1. What good deed have I done today that inshaAllah pleased Allah?

2. Did I perform all of my obligations to Allah, such as the five salahs did I pray them?
3. Did I do at least one act that is Sunnah to prove my love for the Prophet Muhammad sallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam, like praying a Sunnah prayer such as Dhuha and Tahajjud?

4. Did I erase or compensate for any bad deeds I may have done in the past by seeking Allah's forgiveness or doing a good deed to erase a bad one?
5. Did I say salaam to at least one Muslim or smiled at a fellow Muslim for Allah's sake?
6. If I've offended any Muslim did I apologize to him/her or compensated for that wrongdoing by praying for them / including them in my du'a?

7. How many ayahs/verses from the Noble Qur'an did I recite today?
8. What lessons have I learned today by observing the acts and habits of some people?
9. In what way have we shared Allah's Message or knowledge of Islam? Were my good manners a source of guidance for others too?

May Allah the Most Merciful forgive all of our sins, accept all our good deeds, always guide us to Him and make us among His righteous friends whom He will surely welcome in Heaven near Him and His beloved Prophet Muhammad sallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam. Ameen~

POEM: A-Z Islamic Advice Poem

In the Name of Allah
The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

 

A to Z Islamic Advice Poem

 

A) As-Salamu ‘alaikum to all our fellow Muslims!
B) BismillahirRahman Ar-Raheem before we do anything.
C) Cleanliness is half of faith. Allah loves those who are clean.
D) Do all good deeds for Allah’s sake, to fulfill our good dreams.
E) Even if some hate us, know that we are never alone.
F) For Allah is always with us, since we were in our mom’s womb.
G) Go to the masjid, seek authentic knowledge of Islam.
H) Help each other be better Muslims, as much as we can.
I) Islam: a great gift from God, to every woman and man.
J) Jihad means to strive against the evil self and shaytan.
K) Keep learning about Islam. Know Allah the Creator.
L) Love each other for Allah. Let us forgive each other.
M) Muslims are just and merciful; true Muslims never bully.
N) No lying, no cheating, no stealing, no bragging, no envy.
O) Only the pure and true truth seekers can see Islam’s beauty.
P) Purify your niyah. Allah hates insincerity.
Q) Quickly perform good deeds. Say our good du’as earnestly.
R) Recite from the Qur’an, each night and day wholeheartedly.
S) Show-offs, liars and hypocrites can never hide their sins.
T) True Muslims are truthful all the time, sincere at everything.
U) Unite oh Muslim friends, we are all servants of Allah.
V) Vie with one another for His Love, through faith and Taqwa.
W) Wake up oh Muslims, know that one day we must meet Allah.
X) Cross out and avoid all sins, especially vain Bid’ah.
Y) Yearn for Allah’s Love, our goal is to enter Firdaus/Jannah.
Z) Zealously be proud and thankful that we are Muslims.
As-Salamu ‘alaikum wa Rahmatullah!

 

~Written by Mariam Mababaya

Note: May Allah the Most Merciful accept all our good deeds, forgive all our mistakes and make us among His righteous friends whom He will love to welcome in Heaven near Him and His beloved Messenger Muhammad sallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam. Ameen.

This poem can be read at the start of an Islamic program, circle, class or school assembly.

www.wisdom.edu.ph

Wisdom Islamic School (English Medium / Philippines)



POEM: Some Info About Islam

Let me share with you some information
Some info about the faith I follow.
Because I care, I need you to listen -
Be open-minded. Be not shallow.

Islam is the faith that God gave us all
'Tis the religion that loves peace, not war.
'Tis the only faith that God can accept
- God's gift for all humankind – near and far –

Islam requires that we worship One God
Allah – who created all of mankind –
Islam is a great gift from God who cares
Who gave each of His slaves a thinking mind

I am a Muslim. My faith is Islam.
I believe in One God who made us all
Who sent Prophets to invite people to
Worship One God and answer Allah's Call

Do you know, Abraham's faith is Islam
Islam – the religion of God's Prophets
Prophets like Muhammad – the final one –
Prophets like David, Jesus, and Moses

It makes sense to worship just One God
Allah – the Just King and Owner of all –
The Creator who fashioned all of us
Who made things of various shapes – big and small –

It does not make sense if someone gives you
A gift from where you can learn many things
A gift that brings peace which you can share with
Loved ones – a gift that protects your well-being

It does not make sense if you are given
That special gift and you don't accept it
If you throw it away, you hurt that person
If you reject God's gift, you might regret it

So accept Islam – embrace it with love –
Islam – a gift from God who wants to guide
Islam – the only key to Paradise
Which only the wise and pure souls can find

~Written by Mariam Mababaya

www.wisdom.edu.ph

Wisdom Islamic School

POEM: I am Muslim -I Love Moses, Jesus And Muhammad

I am a Muslim: yes, I love Jesus –
For Jesus was a Prophet of Allah.
Jesus was a Muslim, so was Moses –
With David – their religion was Islam.

Allah – the Only God – The God of all –
Allah sent Prophets to call every one –
To worship One God – answer Allah’s call –
Prophets like Jonah, John, and Solomon –

Also Prophets were Prophet Abraham,
Prophet Ishmael, Jacob, and Isaac –
With Noah – they all believed in Islam –
With Muhammad – as their final and last.

Love Allah, and love His Last Messenger –
Muhammad, who owned the best character.
(SallAllahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) 

~Written by Mariam Mababaya

POEM: The Qualities Of A True Friend (Our True Friend: Allah)

What are the qualities that a friend should
have – that which would make a true friend so true?
A friend is one whom you like to be with
while a true friend insists on being with you.

A friend likes you when you have so much in
common. True friends like you who for who you are.
True friends make you feel as though they are at
all times near, although they are very far.

A true friend is one whom you can always
talk to, even at night when it is late -
when loved ones are asleep, a true friend is
always there to hear what you have to say.

Friends like to share, but a true friend always
gives you – not what you want, but what you need.
The feelings you hide, as well as your thoughts,
and your dreams,  a true friend can always read.

A friend may forgive you or they may not
forgive, for something wrong you’ve done to them.
A true friend forgives even when you don’t
ask. True friends forgive - again and again.

Friends are close when you are close to them. A
true friend wants your friendship to be closer.
A true friend does what is best for you, and
hates that you would end up with the losers.

A true friend teaches you lessons to help
you grow – lessons that are hard and easy.
A true friend is always there - having a
true friend can never make you feel lonely.

Friends may sometimes make mistakes, but a true
friend is always careful not to hurt you.
A true friend is a guide and a teacher.
A true friend knows everything you go through.

The true friend I mention is our God,
who kept you company before you were born.
The friendship of God, if you truly keep
and cherish, you will never feel forlorn.

The true friend we all need is God (Allah) –
the One who guides and can teach us lessons,
the One who hears our calls and understands,
the One always near – in every season –

Allah, as a Friend, never judges us
by the way we look and how we appear.
Allah, as a Guide, if we ask Him for
guidance, He guides us and makes our paths clear.

Allah is with us – each day and each night –
He is always there when all are asleep.
Allah always listens when others don’t.
He gives you comfort when He sees you weep.

Fortunate are those who have Allah as
a Friend. Friendship with God is friendship true.
May Allah bless me with His Friendship and
May Allah’s Friendship be shared with you too.

Ameen.

~Written by Mariam Omar Mababaya

 Wisdom Islamic School

www.wisdom.edu.ph

Wisdom Islamic School @YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/infowishes 

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POEM: Why I love God's Prophet Muhammad (SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam)

 

Why I love the Prophet Muhammad
(SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam)

If you ask me, why do I love him, the
Prophet Muhammad (May Peace be upon him) -
I love him because he cared about us
Muslims, and loving him is a condition –

If you love Allah, then love the Prophet
Muhammad – Allah loved him very much.
He was Allah's Final Messenger, and
The hearts of many did his mercy touch.

His beautiful character makes me admire
Him – his trustworthiness and honesty –
Even before he became God's Prophet,
Disbelievers knew that he was trustworthy.

I love the Prophet Muhammad because
Of good manners he was the best example.
I love how he was patient throughout his life
And how his morals were never skeptical.

He cared about his nation too, thus he taught
Us what we should know about our religion.
When given the chance he'd always educate,
Blessing us with advice through his companions.

As a father and grandfather, the Prophet
Muhammad was kind and tender loving.
His mercy to the poor, widows and orphans –
His good treatment of them is too astounding.

His tolerance, even to non-Muslim
Neighbors, is also something to be admired.
His mercy too was further manifest
Through his kind treatment of the slaves he hired.

As a leader – he was charismatic,
As a warrior – marked with strength and bravery,
As a family man – full of mercy,
And a husband who treated his wives fairly –

As a friend – he was accommodating –
Full of cheer, he brought smiles to people's faces –
Respectful to the old, and kind towards the young –
Mercy was the Prophet Muhammad's basis.

I love how he was merciful – and because
Of his mercy, he always tried to guide.
I love how he struggled to obey Allah,
And how he remained patient all through his life.

I love how he was able to do so much –
So many good deeds, despite his simple life –
How he could survive on mere dates and water,
And yet stand for long hours when praying at night.

I love how he was so thankful to Allah –
How he was always ready to sacrifice.
I love how his character was dignified –
How he was strong and gentle at the same time.

I love the patience of Prophet Muhammad –
In worshipping Allah, in fasting, and praying –
His patience in helping Muslims, and in hard times,
And how he was merciful and forgiving.

Because of my love for Prophet Muhammad,
I try to follow him – and say "you should too" –
If you truly love Allah, then love Muhammad –
Let your following him make your love more true.

O' Allah, help us obey you, and help us
Follow Muhammad – in this world and to Heaven –
Grant us his companionship in Paradise,
And freedom to drink from his blessed fountain.
Ameen.

Written by Mariam Omar Mababaya

www.wisdom.edu.ph
Wisdom Islamic School

Hadith / The Prophet's Saying: Five Things To be Asked About On Judgment Day

It was narrated that the Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, “The two feet of the Son of Adam will not move from near his Lord on the Day of Judgement until he is asked about five (matters): about his life - how he spent it; about his youth - how he took care of it; about his wealth - how he earned it and where he spent it; and about that which he acted upon from the knowledge he acquired.”.

Allah knows best. On the day of Judgment you will also be asked about five things:

1) About your life - how did you spend your days and nights? The life God (Allah) gave you -did you spend it in worshiping Allah the way Allah wants you to worship Him (Allah) (According to the Qur'an and the Sunnah/tradition of the Prophet Muhammad sallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam)? Did you pray to Allah as He has commanded you to pray to Him (Allah)? Did you know that the main purpose of your living and creation is to worship Allah? Or did you live your life in sins, disbelief and disobedience?

2) About your youth  -did you spend your youth in good deeds and good acts that please Allah? Did you always make sure that you associated only with the right/righteous Muslim friends? Or did you waste your youth in playing games, talking incessantly about nonsense and trying to stay up to date with the latest ‘fashion trends’? Were you among those young Muslims who loved to share Islamic advice? Or were you among those Muslims who cared more about their looks and competed with others’ make-up and hijaab styles? Did you compete with other young Muslims in trying to do as many good deeds as you can? Or were you among those who competed in materialistic things such as buying excessive clothes each week and accessories of various brands?

3) About your wealth -did you earn your wealth through hard work? did you make sure that your wealth was always halaal/lawful? did you make sure that you didn’t owe anybody some money? and if you did borrow money, you always returned it to its owner? or were you among those who stole from others and knowingly involved themselves in forbidden ribaa/’interest’? did you spend your wealth in good deeds that bring you closer to Allah? did you waste your wealth on un-Islamic schools when there were many Islamic schools available, just because of ‘the name’, thus failing one of Allah’s tests? did you take good care of orphans with your wealth and from your wealth you loved to share? or did you waste your wealth on things to show off and put on a false display that you’re financially better?

4) About your knowledge -your ability to think which Allah gave you -with that knowledge what did you do? What kind of knowledge did you seek? Knowledge that helped you become a better Muslim, knowledge that kept you away from feeling spiritually weak? Or knowledge which you sought just because you wanted to debate with some argumentative and debate-loving freak? Did you read about Islam everyday or at least twice or even thrice a week? And whatever knowledge you have acquired, did you truly practice it?

5) About what you did with your knowledge -Did you share your Islamic knowledge with others for Allah’s sake? Did you teach your Muslim friends regularly about Islam so that their Iman (faith) would be kept awake? Did you speak about Islam to at least one non-Muslim stranger or friend? Did you write an Islamic article, an Islamic book or essay solely for Allah’s sake? Did you write Islamic poems or delivered Islamic speeches to prove to others that Islam is a religion of mercy, without a motive to debate? Or did you hide your knowledge because you wrongly thought that sharing Islamic knowledge would be showing off or people would think you’re fake? etc.

May Allah the Most Forgiving forgive all our sins always. Ameen.
May Allah always accept our good deeds and make us among those whom He will welcome in Heaven near Him and His Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. Ameen~

(From my old blog http://muslimarvels.blogspot.com)

Hadith / The Prophet's Saying: Seven Groups Of Muslims Under Allah's Shade

Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:  “There are seven whom Allah will shade with His shade on the Day when there will be no shade except His: the just ruler; a young man who grows up worshiping his Lord; a man whose heart is attached to the masjid; two men who love one another for the sake of Allah and meet and part on that basis; a man who is called by a woman of rank and beauty and says ‘I fear Allah’; a man who gives in charity and conceals it to such an extent that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives; and a man who remembers Allah when he is alone, and his eyes fill up.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

POEM: The Seven To Receive Allah's Shade On Judgment Day

It was narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (sallAllahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said,
On the Day of Judgment, that Day all await,
There are seven groups who’ll receive Allah’s Shade,
That Day when God questions each one of His slaves.
May Allah make us prosper on that Great Day.
                                                                                 Ameen.

First, are those Muslims who get the chance to lead -
Whether parents with kids to care for and feed,
Or rulers who strive to meet their people’s needs -
Or teachers and bosses –they’re fair, without greed,
They’re never unjust, for they know Allah sees.

Second, are those Muslims who were brought up well.
Truth they love. Lies and gossip they never tell.
They’re busy doing good deeds –never idle,
At night, they’re known for praying Qiyaam Al-Layl,
They grew up avoiding sins that lead to Hell.

Third, are those Muslim men who love the masjid,

It’s like their second home where they’re near Allah,
There they pray their five salahs and more Sunnahs,
Recite from the Qur’an and say their du’as,
Their faces shine brightly with every sajdah.

Fourth, are Muslims who always greet with salaam,
Muslim friends who love each other for Allah,

Who advise and strengthen each other’s Imaan,
And include one another in their du’as,
Praying that they’ll meet again inshaAllah in jannah.

Fifth, are special Muslims who, in this dark age,

Remember Allah always and remain chaste,

Loyal to their spouses, know when to lower their gaze,

These Muslims never flirt –evil deeds they hate.
For Allah, they watch what they do, see and say.

Sixth, are Muslims whom Allah has given wealth,
Which they spend on things that make them close to Him -
On building mosques, Islamic schools, seeking ‘Ilm -
These Muslims you can always find them smiling,
Even a sincere smile –rewards it can bring.

Seventh, are Muslims whose love for God is strong,

That a thought of Allah can make them shed tears,
They long to meet Allah whom they love and only fear,
In their du’as, their tears wash away their wrongs,
Hoping that Heaven is where they will belong.

May Allah the Most Merciful make us among His friends,
Whom He will grant His special Shade on Judgment Day,
And whom He will welcome in Firdaus/Heaven near Him.
Ameen.

Written by Mariam Omar Mababaya

http://muslimarvels.blogspot.com (old blog)

www.wisdom.edu.ph
Wisdom Islamic School

POEM: What Makes A True Friend?

What are the qualities that a friend should
have – that which would make a true friend so true?
A friend is one whom you like to be with
while a true friend insists on being with you.

A friend likes you when you have so much in
common. True friends like you who for who you are.
True friends make you feel as though they are at
all times near, although they are very far.

A true friend is one whom you can always
talk to, even at night when it is late -
when loved ones are asleep, a true friend is
always there to hear what you have to say.

Friends like to share, but a true friend always
gives you – not what you want, but what you need.
The feelings you hide, as well as your thoughts,
and your dreams, a true friend can always read.

A friend may forgive you or they may not
forgive, for something wrong you've done to them.
A true friend forgives even when you don't
ask. True friends forgive - again and again.

Friends are close when you are close to them. A
true friend wants your friendship to be closer.
A true friend does what is best for you, and
hates that you would end up with the losers.

A true friend teaches you lessons to help
you grow – lessons that are hard and easy.
A true friend is always there - having a
true friend can never make you feel lonely.

Friends may sometimes make mistakes, but a true
friend is always careful not to hurt you.
A true friend is a guide and a teacher.
A true friend knows everything you go through.

The true friend I mention is our God,
who kept you company before you were born.
The friendship of God, if you truly keep
and cherish, you will never feel forlorn.

The true friend we all need is God (Allah) –
the One who guides and can teach us lessons,
the One who hears our calls and understands,
the One always near – in every season –

Allah, as a Friend, never judges us
by the way we look and how we appear.
Allah, as a Guide, if we ask Him for
guidance, He guides us and makes our paths clear.

Allah is with us – each day and each night –
He is always there when all are asleep.
Allah always listens when others don't.
He gives you comfort when He sees you weep.

Fortunate are those who have Allah as
a Friend. Friendship with God is true.
May Allah bless me with His Friendship and
May Allah's Friendship be shared with you too.

Ameen~

Written by sister Mariam Mababaya

ISLAMIC NOTES: Just An Invite to Islam -The Religion Of Peace From God Allah The Most Merciful

ISLAM THE ONLY WAY TO WORLD PEACE AND ETERNAL PEACE

By

Dr. Norlain Khadija Dindang Mababaya

Islam is the Only Religion and Way of Life for Peace from Allah (The God). Non-Muslims, in general, have misconceptions about Prophet Muhammad صلي الله عليه وسلم   (Allah’s peace be upon him) and Islam. For years the prejudice against Islam (the so-called Islamophobia) has resulted in discrimination, hatred, violence and crimes against Muslims. Many non-Muslims, with their negative attitudes against Islam, and even vilification of Allah’s Messenger صلي الله عليه وسلم  have failed to understand and appreciate the beauty, rationality, practicality, completeness and excellence of Islamic teachings. For those who misunderstood the true divine mission of Prophet Muhammad صلي الله عليه وسلم  branding him  as “the Founder of the World’s Most Intolerant Religion”  or those who associate  Islam with terrorism, let them know the truth - that is the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم   is not the “Founder of Islam” because Islam is the religion of Allah  (The God) which  He sent to His messengers and perfected  (Qur’an, Chapter 5: Verse 3) through Prophet Muhammad صلي الله عليه وسلم  the Seal of all the Prophets (Qur’an, Chapter 33: Verse 40).

For those who do not believe and worship Allah, know that Allah is an Arabic word that comes from two words: “Al” (meaning “The”) and Ilah (meaning “God”)?  Allah, therefore means “The God”. Allah is one of the 99 Beautiful Names and Attributes of God, the Creator. He is the only One whose name means “The God”.  He is the One Who is being worshiped at least five times a day by all Muslims in the world. He is being worshiped 24 hours in the Holy Mosque in Makkah by all races and nations worldwide who come for Umrah  or the minor Pilgrimage, which can be done at all times. He is the Only One Who claims to be the Creator and the One Who commands every one to worship no one but Him:

“That is Allah, your Rabb (Only God, Cherisher and Sustainer)! There is no god but He, the Creator of all things: so, worship Him (Alone) and He has power to dispose of all affairs.” (Qur’an 6:102-103)

Islam is derived from two root-words: one is salam, meaning peace and the other silm, meaning submission or obedience. By definition, Islam itself is peace as it means the peaceful and complete submission to the Will of Allah, and obedience to His Law, the Shari’ah (Islamic Law). Islam is the Deen (Religion and Way of Life) for Peace from Allah who is the Source of Peace. As the true and perfect Deen (Religion and way of life) from the Only True God, Islam, therefore, is a peaceful religion. One of the beautiful  names and attributes of Allah is As-Salam which means the Peace (That is the Source of Peace or the One Who gives peace). We read in the Holy Qur’an:

"He is Allah, besides Whom there is no (other) deity; knowing the unseen and the visible. He is the Mercy-giving, the Merciful! He is Allah, besides Whom there is no (other) deity, the Sovereign, the Holy, the Peace (the Source or Giver of Peace), the Secure, the Preserver, the Powerful,the Irresistible, the Grandiose: Glory be to Allah ahead of anything they may associate (with Him)! He is Allah, the Creator, the Maker, the Shaper, His are the Finest Names. Everything in Heaven and Earth celebrates Him. He is the Powerful, the Wise. (Qur’an, Chapter 59: Verses 22 to 24.)  

A Muslim is one who peacefully (willfully and sincerely) submits to the Will of Allah. In other words, he or she is one who obeys Allah’s Law, the Shari’ah, which is based on the Qur’an (the Divine Book of Allah) and the Sunnah (Tradition or Practice of Allah’s Messenger, Prophet Muhammad صلي الله عليه وسلم  and the right deductions from these two revealed sources of guidance.

Both the Qur’an and the Sunnah, which includes the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم   ’s authentic Ahadeeth (Teachings and Sayings) serve as the two authentic and divine scriptures of Allah for the guidance of all mankind. Islam guides and trains Muslims to establish and promote peace with their Creator, with themselves, with their families, relatives, neighbors, friends and fellow human beings in and outside the community or society where they belong who go for peace. In fact, even when they read the Qur’an, Allah commands them to have peace. Likewise, whenever they mention and hear the name of the Prophet Muhammad صلي الله عليه وسلم  Allah enjoins them to send greetings of peace to His صلي الله عليه وسلم .  Allah the Almighty says:

“When the Qur’an is read, listen to it with attention, and hold your peace: that you may receive Mercy.” (Qur’an, Chapter 7: Verse 204)

 “Verily, Allah sends blessings upon the Prophet, and His angels ask Allah to bless him. O you who have believed, ask Allah to send blessings upon him, and (you) greet him with peace.” (Qur’an, Chapter 33: Verse 56)

In their daily lives, Muslims as taught by the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  conclude their prayers at least five times a day with the words of peace saying:  السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته “May the peace and mercy of Allah be upon you”.  We read in the following authentic Hadeeth how Muslims send salam (peace) greeting to their fellow Muslims every time they perform salah (prayer):

Abdulah bin Mas’ud رضي الله عنه (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated, “We used to say the greeting, name and greet each other in the prayer. Allah’s صلي الله عليه وسلم  heard it and said: “Say ‘All the compliments are for Allah and all the prayers and all the good things (are for Allah). Peace be on you, O Prophet, and Allah’s mercy and blessings (are on you). And peace be on us and on the good (pious) worshipers of Allah. I testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.) So, when you have said this, then you have surely sent the greetings to every good (pious) worshipper of Allah, whether he be in the Heaven or on the Earth.” (Bukhari 2, Hadeeth 294)

When the Muslims meet their fellow Muslims, they greet them with the invocation of peace sayingالسلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته  “May the peace and mercy of Allah be upon you”.  This greeting of peace, invoking Allah for peace is no doubt far virtuous than the greetings in the West like “Hi!”, “Hello!”, “Good morning!”, or “Good afternoon!”, etc. Muslims’ greeting of peace expresses supplication for peace and mercy from Allah, Who Alone is the Source and Giver of Peace.

Muslims who receive the greeting of peace are expected to respond with the same greeting of peace or even better. This is a divine commandment from Allah the Source of Peace. He says in His Book:

“When a (courteous) greeting is offered you, meet it with a greeting (of peace) still more courteous, or (at least) of equal courtesy. Allah takes a careful account of all things.” (Qur’an, Chapter 4: Verse  86)

Muslims who know Islam learn to promote peace. They learn to extend and answer greetings of peace to their fellow Muslims as the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  taught the importance and virtue of the Islamic greeting as shown in the following authentic Ahadeeth:

Abdullah ibn Amr رضي الله عنه narrated that a man asked the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  “Whose Islam is good or what sort of deeds (or what qualities) of Islam are good.” The Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  replied, “To feed (others) and to greet (with peace) those whom you know and those whom you do not know.” (Bukhari, Vol. 1, Hadeeth 11)

Abu Hurairah رضي الله عنه narrated that the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  said, “The young should greet the old, the passerby should greet (with peace) the sitting one, and the small group of persons should greet the large group of persons.” (Bukhari, Vol. 8, Hadeeth 250)

 Narrated Muawiya ibn Suwaid رضي الله عنه: “I heard Al-Bara ibn`Azib saying, ‘The Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  ordered us to do seven things and prohibited us from doing seven other things.” Then Al-Bara mentioned the following: ‘1. to pay a visit to the sick (inquiring about his health), 2. to follow funeral processions, 3. to say to a sneezer, “May Allah be merciful to you” (if he says, “Praise be to Allah!”), 4. to return greetings (of peace), 5. to help the oppressed, 6. to accept invitations, (and) 7. to help others to fulfill their oaths.’” (Bukhari, Vol. 3, Hadeeth 625)

Abu Ayub Al-Ansari رضي الله عنه narrated that Allah’s Messenger صلي الله عليه وسلم  said, “It is not lawful for a man to desert his brother (Muslim) for more than three nights. (It is unlawful for them that) when they meet, one of them turns away his face from the other, and the other turns his face from the former, and the better of the two will be the one who greets (greeting of peace) to the other first.” (Bukhari, Vol. 8, Hadeeth 100)

Anas رضي الله عنه narrated that whenever the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  asked permission to enter, he knocked the door thrice with greeting (of peace) and whenever he spoke a sentence (said a thing) he used to repeat it thrice. (Bukhari Vol. 1, Hadeeth 94 and Vol. 8, Hadeeth 261)

Sincere and practicing Muslims strive to follow the Islamic teachings of promoting peace as it is part of righteousness. They believe that by being peaceful they become among those who are righteous who deserve Allah’s rewards. Allah the Most Merciful will grant them His Mercy and attain eternal success in the Hereafter and enjoy everlasting peace. They believe in Allah’s supreme rewards for those who believe and do righteous deeds. Allah the Almighty says:

“This is the Way of your Rabb (only God and Sustainer), leading straight. We have detailed the Signs for those who receive admonition. For them will be a Home of Peace with their Rabb (only God and Sustainer). He will be their Friend, because they practiced (righteousness).” (Qur’an, Chapter 6: Verses 126 to127)

“But Allah does call to the Home of Peace: He does guide whom He pleases to a Way that is straight. To those who do right is a goodly (reward) -- Yea, more (than in measure)! No darkness or shame shall cover their faces! They are Companions of the Garden; they will abide therein (for aye)!” (Qur’an, Chapter 10: Verses  25 to 26)

Those who fulfill the Covenant of Allah and do not break the covenant; those who join together those things which Allah has commanded to be joined, hold their Rabb (only God and Sustainer) in awe, and fear the terrible reckoning; those who patiently persevere, seeking the countenance of their Rabb (only God and Sustainer); establish regular prayers; spend, out of the gifts) We have bestowed for their sustenance, secretly and openly; and turn off Evil with good: for such there is the final attainment of the (Eternal) Home Gardens of perpetual bliss: they shall enter there, as well as the righteous among their fathers, their spouses, and their offspring: and angels shall enter unto them from every gate (with the salutation): `Peace unto you for that you persevered in patience! Now how excellent is the final Home!’ (Qur’an, Chapter 13: Verses  20 to 24)

“The righteous will be amid Gardens and fountains of clear-flowing water. (Their greeting will be): `Enter you here in Peace and Security.’ And We shall remove from their departure any lurking sense of injury: (they will be) brothers (joyfully) facing each other on raised couches.” (Qur’an, Chapter15: Verses  45 to 47)

“Except those who repent and believe, and work righteousness: for these will enter the Garden and will not be wronged in the least Gardens of Eternity, those which (Allah) Most Gracious has promised to His servants in the Unseen: for His promise must (necessarily) come to pass. They will not there hear any vain discourse, but only salutations of Peace: And they will have therein their sustenance, morning and evening. Such is the Garden which We give as an inheritance to those of Our Servants who guard against evil.” (Qur’an, Chapter 19: Verses 60 to 63)

“Verily the Companions of the Garden shall that Day have joy in all that they do; they and their associates will be in pleasant shade, reclining on raised couches; (every) fruit will be there for them; they shall have whatever they call for; `Peace!’ -- a Word (of salutation) from a Rabb  (only God and Sustainer) Most Merciful.” (Qur’an, Chapter 36: Verses 55 to 58)

 "As to the Righteous (they will be) in a position of Security, among Gardens and Springs; dressed in fine silk and rich brocade, they will face each other; moreover, We shall wed them to maidens with beautiful, big, and lustrous eyes. There can they call for every kind of fruit in peace and security; nor will they there taste Death, except the first Death; and He will preserve them from the Chastisement of the Blazing Fire as a Bounty from your Rabb (only God and Sustainer)! That will be the supreme achievement!" (Qur’an, Chapter 44: Verses 51 to 55.)

“And the Garden will be brought nigh to the Righteous, --  no more a thing distant. (A voice will say:) `This is what was promised for you for every penitent heedful one, who feared the Most Gracious unseen, and brought a heart turned in devotion (to Him): Enter you therein in Peace and Security; this is a Day of Eternal Life!’ There will be for them therein all that they wish and there is more with us.” (Qur’an, Chapter 50: Verses 31 to 35.)

In line with the above very inspiring Qur’anic verses, the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم , further encouraged Muslims to learn to spread the Salam (greeting of peace) and make it their day-to-day practice because they know that by doing so they earn rewards that entitle them to enter Paradise in peace. Here are some quoted teachings of peace from Allah’s Prophet صلي الله عليه وسل:

Abu Hurairah رضي الله عنه narrated that the Allah’s Messenger صلي الله عليه وسلم   said: “You shall not enter paradise so long as you do not affirm belief (in all those things which are the articles of faith) and you will not believe as long as you do not love one another. Should I not direct you to a thing which, if you do, will foster love amongst you: (give currency to (the practice of paying salutation to one another by sayingالسلام عليكم  ورحمة الله وبركاته May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon you.” (Muslim, Hadeeth 96)

Abu Yusuf Abdullah ibn Salam  رضي الله عنه narrated that he heard the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  said: “O people! Spread the Salam (peace greetings), feed (the poor and needy), behave kindly to your blood relations, offer prayer when others are asleep, and (thus) enter Paradise in peace.” (Tirmidhi 849)

To promote peace, Islam teaches fair treatment, respect and justice in dealing with the people of the book (the Jews and the Chritians).  It prohibits Muslims from disputing and fighting with them. Allah the Almighty says:

“This day are (all) things good and pure made lawful unto you. the food of the people of the Book (the Jews and the Christians) is lawful unto you and yours is lawful unto them. (Lawful unto you n marriage) are (not only) chaste women who are believers, but chaste women among the People of the Book, revealed before your time, when you give them their due dowers, and desire chastity, not lewdness, taking them as lovers. If any one rejects faith, fruitless is his work, and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (all spiritual good). (Qur’an 5: 5)

“And dispute not with the People of the Book, except in the best way; unless it be with those of them who do wrong but say, “We believe in the Revelation which has come down to us and in that which came down to you; our God and your God is One; and it is to Him we submit (in Islam).’”(Qur’an 29: 46)

“Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loves those who are just. Allah only forbids you, with regard to those who fight you for (your) Faith, and drive you out of your homes, and support (others) in driving you out, from turning to them (for friendship and protection). It is such as turn to them) in these circumstances), that do wrong.” (Qur’an 60: 8-9)

Likewise, killing innocent people is never allowed. It is more of saving lives not killing. Read how beautiful and serene Allah’s injunctions in the Qur’an:

 “…If anyone  kills a person, it would be as if he has killed the whole people, and if anyone  saves a life, it would be as if he has saved the whole people.” (Qur’an, 5:32)       

Allah the Most Merciful has prohibited the taking of life, which He has made sacred, except by way of justice and law (Qur’an 6: 151). A believer should never kill a believer; but (if it so happens) by mistake, then, compensation is due (Qur’an 4: 92). If a man kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell (Qur’an 4: 93).

To promote peace and avoid any dispute, Islam enjoins mankind to observe the law of equality and justice as shown in the following Qur’anic injunctions and prophetic hadeeth:

 “In the Law of Equality there is (saving of) life to you, O you men of understanding that you may restrain yourselves.” (Qur’an 2: 179)

“Allah does command you to render back your Trusts to those to whom they are due; and when you judge between people that you judge with justice. Verily how excellent is the teaching, which He gives you! For Allah is He Who hears and sees all things.” (Qur’an 4: 58)

“O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor: for Allah can best protect both. For not the lusts (of your departure), lest you swerve, and if you distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do.” (Qur’an 4: 135)

“O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just: that is next to piety. And fear Allah for Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do.” (Qur’an 5: 8)

“Allah commands justice, the doing of good, and giving to kith and kin, and He forbids all indecent deed, and evil and rebellion, He instructs you that you may receive admonition.” (Qur’an 16: 90)

Anas Bin Malik رضي الله عنه narrated that the Prophet صلي الله عليه وسلم  said: “The prescribed Law of Allah is the equality in punishment (i.e. Qisas).” (Bukhari, Vol. 6 Hadeeth 26)

Very clearly both the Qur’an and the Sunnah stress the importance of peace. Peace in Islam serves as one of the important keys to our peaceful entrance in Paradise. Therefore, we need to establish peace with Allah by submitting ourselves to Him in Islam. We need to establish peace within ourselves, our family members, relatives, neighbors, friends, the society or community where we belong and the rest of mankind in the international body-politic as a whole by knowing and applying the fundamental teachings of Islam and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad صلي الله عليه وسلم . Islam is a religion based on divine teachings, which we need to learn, apply and share to others in order to promote universal peace and enjoy everlasting peace in the eternal life hereafter. It is the only religion that Allah has chosen and perfected for us. It is the only religion that is acceptable to Him and hence, the only religion and way to peace both in this world and in the everlasting life hereafter. Allah the Almighty clearly says:

“...This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” (Qur’an 5: 3)

“If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah), never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (all spiritual good).” (Qur’an 3: 85)

Think and reflect peacefully on the clear and enlightening teachings of Islam about peace.  Is there a god other than Allah (The God) whose name (one of the beautiful names) is As-Salam (The Peace)? Is there any religion other than Islam that comes from the word salam (peace)? Is there any religion other than Islam that enjoins its followers to greet each other with the greeting of peace? Is there any religion other than Islam that ends its daily prayers with the greeting of peace? Is there any religion other than Islam that teaches all virtuous teachings of justice and righteousness and forbids all evil deeds in order to establish peace with Allah and promote peace with His creations who go for peace? Is there any religion that promises all peaceful and righteous believers with everlasting peace? In short, Is there any religion and way of life that teaches about peace better than Islam? What does your religion say about peace in this world and in the eternal world?  For your eternal peace, join the millions of non-Muslims worldwide who peacefully reverted to Islam -- the Religion and Way of Life that enjoins mankind to promote peace with Allah and all His creations who go for peace. Verily, Islam is the peaceful religion from Allah (The God who is the Peace, the Source and the Giver of Peace) is the only way to world peace and eternal peace.

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