Author: Sabour Al-Kandari

So your exam is in one week, you haven’t studied properly, you’ve skipped classes and homework – and now you’re trying to pull a miracle and slip through the cracks. Feel like a total loser? You should because you are one loser face, maybe you should have read my other article about improving your grades.

But listen here Mr. or Mrs. Loser, there’s no point in lecturing you now about how you should have studied properly, that can’t help you anymore, what you need is some emergency situation advice and that’s just what I have in store for you.

The truth is, even the best of us have been in that situation in one way or another – as in completely unprepared for an exam. Luckily for the screw up in all of us, here are four simple points for pulling out of a nosedive:

1. Don’t Panic!

Rule number one, do not panic. It seems simple enough, but most people who get stuck in a bad situation would prefer to complain and lament about how much the world is out to get them rather than figure out solutions. The world may or may not be out to get you, who cares, what are you going to do about it?

Look at it, planning something diabolical.

True leaders don’t complain, they highlight a problem, find solutions and execute. The best way to understand this point is to picture a person who is guaranteed to be in a plane crash in a few minutes. Does it make sense to spend your last moments cursing out incompetent pilots, or rather doing something productive like saying your shahadah some last du’as and maybe even some good deeds.

Now of course, there’s a difference between panicking and being scared/anxious. Being scared is fine, use that energy to your advantage to get some work done, but don’t let that fire burn you out and ruin the soundness of your judgment by panicking.

2. Don’t get stuck in details.

One of the biggest reasons people get overwhelmed by a subject they don’t understand is getting stuck in the details. If you want to learn a subject quickly, learn the basic point or overview of the material first, then fill in the blanks with details and terminology you didn’t fully grasp after.

If you’re learning history for example, chances are you’re learning about how some person (or people) did something important. What’s the big deal about what happened? WW2 can be summed up by saying gigantic war happened in Europe again, Germany got strong somehow and everyone went crazy. There, you understand the big picture, now you can slowly fill in the specifics about Nazi Political Propaganda and the Invasion of Normandy only after you get the big point.

Same rule goes for example for Chemistry or Physics. Don’t get lost in the terminology or algebra, the basic logic of what’s being done is never complicated. If you do get stuck, always ask yourself, “what do I not know to solve this problem?”  When you answer that question with either math you can’t set up, an equation or fact you didn’t memorize, then you can quickly target what you need to study.

3. The Mark-to-Time ratio.

Of course, your biggest problem is that you’re limited on time. What does any smart person do when they’re limited on resources? They prioritize for the most important.

How do you decide what’s going to cost the most marks before the exam? It’s in the course outline, Einstein (hey that rhymes). If you used rule #2 well, you already get the important points and you can use that to figure out what’s worth more studying. Looking at the other tests, assignments and exams available to you to helps you to see what’s been focused on before.

When you’re in an exam, this is much easier because the amount of marks is right beside each question. If you don’t get something just star it and come back when you have time. Some people get stubborn on tiny one-mark questions as if they were taunted or something, don’t be foolish like that.

What did you say about my momma?

4. The all-nighter.

The oldest trick in the book and the last ace in the hole. The entire point is to buy the time you need to study, and every good all-nighter has the same basic features:

1. Lots of time for studying.

2. Method for staying awake.

3. Method for combating occasional hallucinations.

Remember, there’s no point in an all-nighter if you’re going to waste it on Facebook or reading random pointless articles (like this one). Shut everything out and get to your work, the only thing that needs to be done.

As for staying awake, it’s better to use healthy meals, food and maybe a little physical activity than getting loaded up on coffee because you may actually crash before you need to. Hallucination-wise, just politely let them know you have to work and they’ll understand.

Not now Mr.President, I have work to finish.

The biggest problem with an all-nighter is that you’ll be at less than 100% for the test, which is why it’s a bad idea under normal circumstances. The only reason you would pull one is from a carefully calculated trade-off. To minimize the damage, bring some snacks to have during the test so you can get some last bit of energy to collapse over the finish line.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a few simple points to do the best you can. Of course none of this is going to be pleasant, that’s why it’s a bad situation. Hopefully you’ll learn from this mistake and plan more carefully in the future. Since you’ll probably be back here again somehow, you always have this article you can review =).

Author: Ahmed Saleh

I hope this message reaches you in an excellent state of health and imaan. This article is primarily a reminder to myself.

All praises are due to Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, and only the mistakes have been mine.

———————

Check this.

12:34. Time for Dhuhr. The Athan goes off. Straighten the lines.

It’s still 12:34. 1 meter away from the congregation of Muslim students, on the other side of the room, four non-Muslim students are sitting in a circle, previously socializing now ready to begin their spiritual session.

“Bismillaah ar-Rahman ar-Raheem”

One non-Muslim student leads the other three in a foreign language. On the other side of the room, the Muslims have begun their prayer.

“Allahu Akbar”

The prayer voices among the 4 non-Muslim students simultaneously reach crescendo.  Despite this, the Muslims continue:

“Sami’ allaahu liman hamidah”

The prayer voices are at full blast. Foreign hymns collide with the eternal chatter in our brains. Our physical presence is now like a ship in a storming sea, our conscious struggling and scrambling to put up our sail of sincerity towards Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala. We squint our eyes and hearts, hoping that just maybe; it shall isolate the foreign hymns and align us with our connection to Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala.

“Allahu Akbar”

The voices are thriving but not as loud. Putting our head to the ground, feelings of anxiety climbs up our spine out of fear of breaking the Divine connection, but still we prepare to meet our Creator as we submerge ourselves into sujood.

“As Salaamu ‘alaikum wa rahmatulaah”

The unfamiliar voices cease. Our hearts are screaming Alhamdulillah and Astafirugallah all at the same time. Some of us continue with our personal dhikr. Some of us curse and kiss our teeth at the four students. Some of us wish we could have our own prayer center. The medium-sized Jamaa, within a few seconds after salaat, has exploded into a wide spectrum of emotions in response to the “distraction”.

Distraction.

From a distance, the man saw the figure of ‘Abbad ibn Bishr silhouetted at the mouth of the valley and he knew that the Prophet and his followers must be inside the valley. Silently he drew his bow and let fly an arrow. Unerringly it embedded itself in Abbad’s flesh .

Calmly, ‘Abbad pulled out the arrow from his body and went on with his recitation, still absorbed in his Salaat. The attacker shot a second and a third arrow both of which also found their mark. ‘Abbad pulled out one and then the other. He finished his recitation, made ruku and then sujud. Weak and in pain, he stretched out his right hand while still in prostration and shook his sleeping companion. Ammar awoke. Silently, ‘Abbad continued the Salat to its end and then said: “Get up and stand guard in my place. I have been wounded.”

Ammar jumped up and began to yell. Seeing them both the attacker fled into the darkness. Ammar turned to ‘Abbad as he lay on the ground, blood flowing from his wounds.

“Ya Subhanallah (Glory be to God)! Why didn’t you wake me when you were hit by the first arrow?” “I was in the midst of reciting verses of the Quran which filled my soul with awe and I did not want to cut short the recitation. The Prophet had commanded me to commit this surah to memory. Death would have been dearer to me than that the recitation of this surah should be interrupted.”

Everyday at York University at the Scott Religious Centre, we face the challenge of praying in an area that allows other worships, whether loud or silent, to occur simultaneously. Without a doubt, it has become for difficult for Muslims to establish prayer without excessive noise. But we must not complain and become intolerant; instead we should look into the legacy of the Sahaba. This is no easy task, but we must not be discouraged.

But really brothers and sisters, without further analysis and explain, after reading about ‘Abbad, should we still complain? Do we even have the right to complain? If ‘Abbad was able to pray with arrows in his body, how can we ever complain of a bunch of students distracting us during prayer? Do you have arrows in your flesh during prayer? Even if so, shall you stop praying?

‘Abbad didn’t.

Raise the standards of your khushoo’ in salaat. Raise the standards to the point where, no foreign hymns, not even arrows can hinder your spiritual state of mind during salaat. Let your salaat be like an arrow, seeking a destination without interference from external forces.

The human species has been given the ability to speak. Our mouth and tongue are guards to the human voice so if anything leaves your mouth, let it be beautiful, simple and elegant.

If people are misguided, do not mention them in a bad tone, rather ask Allah to guide them.

Times may be hard, but always remember, your salaat is like an arrow, a force to be reckoned with.

Allah alone gives success.

May Allah increase us in patience.

May Allah grant us sincerity in salaat.

May Allah bestow us guidance in this life.

This poem is dedicated to my friend.
Whose life is struggle right now.
I remember when I first met you.
We were so similar.
We laughed for hours.
We read the same books.
Listened to the same tunes.
We watched the same movies.
Talked for hours.
I want to say:
I love you.
…
Your life is full of so much struggle.
But you are so gallant through it.
Never ever want to make me cry.
But it hurts how much I love you.
Your life is hard.
You hurt.
Burdened right now, but always remember,
It rains in the dessert.
And wherever there is life, God nourishes.
And people are sustained in the remembrance of God.
You are so much of the world’s beauty.
In every way.
Your heart is so pure.
I can see your radiance.
I can see the light in your soul.
You always want the best for people.
You’re an inspiration.
…
You said you no longer dream about the future.
Silently said goodbye to those dreams, wishes and visions you once had.
Because you feel like you are simply stuck in this dreary reality.
You think there is no escape.
You are trying to find your purpose.
Your space.
But precious, God tests those He loves best.
The harder the struggle the stronger you become.
Remember God’s Love.
His Grace.
His Mercy.
His Compassion.
I tell myself before I tell you.
I will make myself believe these words from which I now feed.
They say it is words which we hold on to when we have nothing more.
Because they give us comfort.
And wrap us in love.
…
The wise people, they say that you should make the most of your health and your youth.
But no one ever assumes this might apply to them.
Because we believe that we will live forever.
Because we believe that we have all the time in the world.
Because we never understand the value of something until we no longer possess it.
‘Nothing bad will happen to me, I am such a good person.’
But remember good people are also tested.
Maybe in the hardest ways.
And precious, that’s why I never want you to doubt your faith.
Never underestimate your grace.
You are worth everything.
So very important.
People are working to keep you healthy.
People will strive to make you smile.
You are the colourful paint in their lives.
Remember you are their lovebug.
…
We say its funny how time flies.
But so sad how we always want to do certain things but never get the time.
Sometimes I think our lives dwell on pointless things.
So we never get the chance to,
hold our friends hand.
Or marvel over their eminence.
…
I’ve heard my elders say that reflection is the key to life.
Many times we think that our life is so hard.
There is absolutely nothing wondrous about it.
So we simply can’t go on.
We fail to realize own blessings.
We forget to Thank God for His love.
Because we spend hours imaging everything we don’t have.
In all that time we fail to realize that many people have it harder than us.
Many people face greater tests in this life than maybe we ever will.
…
When I was young my mom said no matter what happens I should always place my trust in God.
Any hurdle I come across can be overcome by believing in the One worth all belief.
I promise to put all my faith in God.
Because trust I’ve learned, comes from Him
…
They said one of the hardest tests given to any human being was given to the Prophet Ayyub.
In times of hardship he had immense faith in the One worth all praise.
He was Grateful,
Sought God’s Help.
And remained Steadfast.
He became an embodiment of hope.
So,
God does not place a burden on you more than you can bear.
You are stronger than the usual.
…
My friend,
Seek happiness from sunsets
and flowers blooming.
From ocean waves singing to the beat of the wind.
From leaves that change colours.
From the beauty of how the day becomes night.
Or how the moon replaces the sun.
Or how we can breathe.
Think.
Hear.
Speak.
Listen.
Smile.
Embrace.
Love.
Seek harmony from every single moment.
Because God is always with you. He will never abandon you.
I guess what I really want to say is this, ‘For those going through hard times, keep pushing because there is a greater purpose in it.’
…
My reader,
We should remember that some people are faced with very difficult tests in this life.
Maybe our purpose is to help them through these trials.
Be a beacon of hope.
A lesson of love.
A pillar they can rely on.
Something they can hold on to when it becomes too much.
Simply to let them know they are loved.
…
This poem is dedicated to my friend.
I will always remember the first time I met you.
And I want you to know I’ll always be there for you.
This poem is also dedicated to you.
Because this poem is so much of us.
You are what I like to call,
Preciousness.

Author: Umm Aasiyah

We live in a world where we constantly find the need to differentiate. However, the beauty of life is that everyone (despite genetics, culture or any barrier) has received a beautiful gift of health. Such a big concept can be divided further into three realms, the mind, body and soul. This word, health, is seen as the absence of disease to many or can be seen as an empty wooden pallet, left to the owner to fill it with colours.

Let us begin by adding our first colour to our empty pallet. I shall begin with the colour white – symbolized for purity or according to a science student, it is just the perfect colour to represent the brain. MashAllah, the mind is an extraordinary beauty by itself. Such a beauty allows us to recognize objects, ability to make thoughts/decisions and co-ordinate with the body. However, beauty is merely associated with physical appearance and to maintain such an appearance many turn towards products to either enhance one’s features. But what about maintaining the beauty of the mind? Curiosity and quest for knowledge is the answer! As students of this Ummah, we need to increase our knowledge with regards to Islam. The amazing thing about Islam is that there is just so much to learn that it will always have its believer seeking and thriving upon knowledge. Also, knowledge is best when shared; likewise the white paint on the pallet needs to be used and if not, it dries up and starts to crumble. The crumbling could be a sign of memory loss as we age or could possibly lead to a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease in the latter phase of our lives. Ever seen a friend/relative/patient suffer from memory loss or Alzheimer’s disease? Or a closer to home question to ask would be: Ever written a test or exam where you completely went blank or could not remember idea/concepts you had learnt? What if these moments turned into everyday moments that disable your activities of daily living? Thus, Ummah of today rise and maintain that beauty that we in laymen’s term call Mind.

Now, let us rewind our memories to Art class 101; the colour red and blue makes magenta. (I googled this up by the way, as I’m no expert with colours). So, Magenta is the next colour I would like to add to the pallet, and ironically enough red and blue can symbolize arterial and venous blood that runs through our bodies. Thus, lo and behold Magenta can be THE colour that symbolizes our bodies. Our bodies are capable of performing countless number of activities and are meticulously designed by our creator, Subhan’Allah! So, how do we maintain these beautiful bodies? Brothers, I’m not talking about working out, however it definitely is considered part of being healthy. But obvious enough, every York University student is aware about eating healthy and staying fit, thus I will not bother to write about it as I am a culprit first and foremost of not following the healthy regime. But as a health care professional, taking care of patients, is a constant reminder to self about the endless things we have to thank Allah subhana wat’ala about, which I would like to share with you all. Picture yourself confined to a bed due to an illness, unable to go to the washroom and make wuhdu to cleanse yourself before appearing in front of your Lord. Secondly, not being able to go into rukhu or prostrate and submit thyself in front of your Lord; you are just too weak and feeble to even utter the beautiful words of the Qur’an. Yes, one can pray in bed as Allah subhana wat’ala is Most Merciful and Forgiving; however having to ask someone to bring you a washcloth, or a prayer mat to pray, and being dependent on others in order for you to have a moment with your Lord. Can you picture this? Unfortunately these are the lives many people are living today. These are just some thoughts that run through my mind while caring for some of my patients. Thus, first and foremost this piece of writing is a reminder to myself because I have so much to thank Allah subhana wat’ala for that I take for granted; from my hands that allow me to make wudhu, from those legs that enable me to walk to the Masjid, the eyes that allow me to weep, the dry lips in Ramadhan that is a reminder of all the people worldwide unable to have clean water to drink, and this list can go on. Point of it all, if you can leave this article with one message, I would like it to be that we have many things to Thank Allah subhana wat’ala for and let us implement good habits in our lives such as eating healthy, staying fit in order to prevent chronic diseases that take over our bodies and possibly debilitate our physical means but more so our means to speak to Allah subhana wat’ala.

This means of not having to thank Allah subhana wat’ala, or not being able to ask forgiveness for the countless deeds that are accumulating weakens our spirituality. This leads into the perfect colour that I would like to add to our pallet, which will be yellow – representing our souls. This is by far the hardest part to describe because every moment or experience of reviving one’s soul is unique to every individual. Some acts to revive our souls that many perform are: being in solitude in prayers and communicating with the most divine, attending lectures, reading the Qur’an, Dhikr and the list may go on, because there are countless ways. The more important note is that everyone’s intention is to connect with Allah subhana wat’ala and asking for guidance to be on the path that is right. However, the things I mentioned may appear “deep” to some, but there are other ways that please others for example, smiling, being patient, controlling anger/frustration, having humility; basically working on those personality traits that need work and is different to every individual. Also, living in a western world as a Muslim, we will come across many challenges, but remember, if the Prophets (peace be upon them all) prayed with the hardships they went through, we are incomparable but our spirituality is the strength to overcome these hurdles. Thus, my brother and sisters in Islam, spirituality is our drive to make a difference, let us use this and strengthen it to make a positive transformation.

In conclusion, as a health care professional I cannot emphasize the importance of health. The colours on the pallet (white, magenta and yellow) as seen in the picture are at the core, which is why we first need to work with what we have (our primary colours) in order to grow and develop to get to the core of things. Thus, get acquainted with mind, body and soul, as they are independent parts yet quite inter-related.

On this very same note, I would like to share a hadith from Tirmidhi, The Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “A servant of God will remain standing on the Day of Judgement until he is questioned about his (time on earth) and how he used it; about his knowledge and how he utilized it; about his wealth and from where he acquired it and in what (activities) he spent it; and about his body and how he used it.”

Alhamdulillah 2/3 of Ramadan has passed, how have you spent it? Have you spent it gossiping on the phone or keeping your tongue busy reciting the Qur’an? Have you spent it sitting in front of a couch watching television or sitting in the masjid waiting for salaah? If you’re one of those who have yet to take full advantage of this blessed month then I have good news for you … … … it’s not over.

Why are you fasting this month? Really, ask yourself. Some people may fast because everyone else is doing it and they don’t want to feel left out, others may fast because they do not want to be shunned by their parents or spouse, while others may fast with the proper intention; to draw closer to Allah.

On the authority of the Commander of the Faithful Abu Hafs ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab who said:
“I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying: “Surely, all actions are driven by intentions and, verily, every man shall have but that which he intended. Thus, he whose migration was for Allah and His Messenger, [then] his migration was for Allah and His Messenger; and he whose migration was to achieve some worldly benefit or to take a woman in marriage, his migration was for that which he migrated.”
(Hadith #1, the 40 Hadith of Imam Nawawi)

From this hadith we learn that actions are by intentions and each person will be rewarded according to what he intended. So if you are fasting this month to improve your relationship with your creator and sustainer, then may Allah reward you for it. However, if you are fasting with an incorrect intention then you should purify your intention before your deeds go to waste.

While I was spending time with a friend of mine he asked me why Muslims fast during Ramadan. One common answer we hear is “so that we know how the poor feel.” Though this may be one of the wisdoms behind why we fast, Allah tells us the exact reason why we fast. As with everything else in this Deen when faced with an issue we go back to the Qur’an and the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Allah clearly states in the Qur’an:

“O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) taqwa (piety/self-restraint)”
(Surah Al Baqarah 2:183)

Will you be among the Muslims who learn self restraint and thus become more pious during this blessed month, or among those who continue and/or increase in their disobedience to Allah. A friend of mine said a statement which gave me some understanding of why we fast during Ramadan, he said: “one thing I love about Ramadan is the fact that it shows the strength of the human will”. If you can not eat, refrain from sexual intercourse and everything else that we are prohibited from indulging in during the days of Ramadan then surely you can refrain from committing sins throughout the year. If you can leave the acts that Allah has made permissible for one month then you should be able to leave the acts that Allah has made impermissible for 12 months; self-restraint is a pre-requisite of attaining taqwa.

There is 1/3 of Ramadan left, if you have not already, it’s not too late to begin exerting yourself to become among those who have taqwa because Allah says in the Qur’an

“That man can have nothing but what he strives for, that (the fruit of) his striving will soon come in sight, then will he be rewarded with a reward complete, that to thy Lord is the final goal”
(Surah An-Najm 53:39-42.)

Strive to use your time more beneficially during this blessed month and the months that follow. Strive to improve your relationship with the Qur’an because this is the month in which it was revealed and nothing will increase your iman like reciting the Qur’an (and don’t forget to reflect upon it). Strive to increase the amount of deeds you do because Prophet Mohammad (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

“Whoever draws near to Allah during it (Ramadan) with a single characteristic from the characteristics of (voluntary) goodness, he is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times. And whoever performs an obligatory act during it, he is like whoever performed seventy obligatory acts in other times.”

(Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 1887)

Likewise, be sure to say what is good or keep silent and to keep renewing your intention. Time is the most valuable resource in life and as Muslims we should use it effectively. Before we know it Ramadan will be over and some of us may regret how we used our time. Make the intention now that you will take full advantage of this Ramadan before it’s over, that you will exert yourself in trying to get closer to Allah and the Qur’an, and that you will strive to be among those who have taqwa. If you started your Ramadan weak, then end strong, and if you started your Ramadan strong, then end even stronger!

We seek assistance from Allah in all of our affairs because Allah is the best of assisters. May Allah accept our deeds, make us among those who are sincere, among those who humble themselves in salaah, and make us among those who strive to please him, ameen. Success is with Allah, have a blessed Ramadan!

And just like that, we’re 7 days into Ramadan already. Let that sink in for a bit, a whole week in the blink of an eye. It’s scary how fast our time passes from us.

But as with all things, my brothers and sisters, reminder benefits the believer. When life moves as fast as it does, always remember to stop – full stop. Take a breather, take a few minutes of silent contemplation, remember where you came from and remember what you’re here for. And once you re-calibrate your heart and mind, charge back at world full speed.

Allah subhana wata’ala says in the Qur’an:

وَذَكِّرۡ فَإِنَّ ٱلذِّكۡرَىٰ تَنفَعُ ٱلۡمُؤۡمِنِينَ

And remind, for truly reminder benefits the believers.
[51:55]

So remember the words of Allah about our fasting:

يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ كُتِبَ عَلَيۡڪُمُ ٱلصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى ٱلَّذِينَ مِن قَبۡلِڪُمۡ لَعَلَّكُمۡ تَتَّقُونَ

O you who believe, the fasts have been enjoined upon you as they were enjoined upon those before you, so that you may be of those with Taqwa.
[2:183]

Taqwa. Fear of Allah, piety, remembrance of our Creator and consciousness of Him – wherever we may be. A beautiful quality to have, and a beautiful state of mind to be in.

Allah subhana wata’ala mentions Taqwa and its people in numerous places:

ذَٲلِكَ ٱلۡڪِتَـٰبُ لَا رَيۡبَ‌ۛ فِيهِ‌ۛ هُدً۬ى لِّلۡمُتَّقِينَ (٢) ٱلَّذِينَ يُؤۡمِنُونَ بِٱلۡغَيۡبِ وَيُقِيمُونَ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَمِمَّا رَزَقۡنَـٰهُمۡ يُنفِقُونَ

This Book has no doubt in it – a guidance for the People of Taqwa. Those who believe in the Unseen, and are steadfast in Salah (prayer), and spend out of what We have provided them.
[2:2-3]

وَتَعَاوَنُواْ عَلَى ٱلۡبِرِّ وَٱلتَّقۡوَىٰ‌ۖ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُواْ عَلَى ٱلۡإِثۡمِ وَٱلۡعُدۡوَٲنِ‌ۚ وَٱتَّقُواْ ٱللَّهَ‌ۖ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ شَدِيدُ ٱلۡعِقَابِ

Help each other in Birr (righteousness) and Taqwa (piety), and do not help each other in sin and aggression. Fear Allah, surely, Allah is severe in punishment.
[5:2]

وَسَارِعُوٓاْ إِلَىٰ مَغۡفِرَةٍ۬ مِّن رَّبِّڪُمۡ وَجَنَّةٍ عَرۡضُهَا ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتُ وَٱلۡأَرۡضُ أُعِدَّتۡ لِلۡمُتَّقِينَ (١٣٣) ٱلَّذِينَ يُنفِقُونَ فِى ٱلسَّرَّآءِ وَٱلضَّرَّآءِ وَٱلۡڪَـٰظِمِينَ ٱلۡغَيۡظَ وَٱلۡعَافِينَ عَنِ ٱلنَّاسِ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ يُحِبُّ ٱلۡمُحۡسِنِينَ (١٣٤

Race with one another towards Forgiveness from your Lord and towards a Paradise the width of which spans the heavens and the earth. It has been prepared for the People of Taqwa. The ones who spend (for Allah’s sake) in prosperity and adversity, and those who control anger and forgive people. And Allah loves those who are good in their deeds.
[3:133-134]

The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us the concept of Taqwa and reminded us of it:

عن أبي ذر الغفاري رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم :
اتق الله حيثما كنت. وأتبع السيئة الحسنة تمحها، وخالق الناس بخلق حسن
رواه الترمذي

Abu Dhar Jundub bin Junadah and Abu Abdul Rahman Mu’adh bin Jabal (may Allah be pleased with them) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
“Fear Allah wherever you may be; follow up an evil deed with a good one which will wipe (the former) out, and behave well towards people.”
(Narrated by Tirmidhi who graded it hasan.)

And he (peace be upon him) reminded us of Taqwa in the context of our community relations:

عن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال :
” المسلم أخو المسلم لا يخونه ولا يكذبه ولا يخذله ، كل المسلم على المسلم حرام عرضه وماله ودمه ، التقوى ها هنا ، بحسب امرئ من الشر أن يحتقر أخاه ”
رواه مسلم

It was reported from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
“The Muslim is the brother of another Muslim; he does not betray him, lie to him or forsake him. The whole of the Muslim is sacred to his fellow Muslim – his honour, his wealth and his blood. Taqwa (piety) is here. It is sufficient evil for a man to despise his brother.”
(Narrated by Muslim, no. 4650)

And our righteous predecessors in faith, those who were amongst the earliest generations to the Revelation helped us understand Taqwa:

A man once asked Abû Hurayrah – Allâh be pleased with him, ‘What is al-taqwâ?” He replied, “Have you ever taken a path filled with thorns?” The man replied, “I have.” Abû Hurayrah asked him, “What did you do?” He replied, “When I saw a thorn I would dodge it or pass over it or behind it.” Abû Hurayrah said, “That is al-taqwâ.”
Al-Baihaqî, Al-Zuhd Al-Kabîr p351.

It is reported that Abû Al-Dardâ – Allâh be pleased with him – said:
You will never be pious (a person of taqwâ) until you become knowledgeable, and you will never be beautiful with your knowledge  until you act [by it].
Ibn Ábd Al-Barr, Jâmi’ Bayân Al-’Ilm wa Fadlihîarticle 1239.

It is reported from Maymûn b. Mahrân – Allah be please with him – that he said:
A person cannot be a taqîy (pious man of taqwâ) until he takes account of himself like he would with his business partner; and until he knows where he gets his clothing and food and drink.
Wakî’ b. Al-Jarrâh, Al-Zuhd Vol.1 p270.

Source

The late Shaykh Ibn Baaz (may Allah have mercy on him) commented beautifully about the references to Taqwa:

At first, whoever ponders over the relevant reference to Taqwa in the Book of Allah (the Glorious Qur’an) and the Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet) of His Prophet (peace be upon him) knows for sure that it is the main reason behind every good in both life and the Hereafter (…) Misfortunes, afflictions, ordeals, and punishments are only caused by negligence of or failing to observe Taqwa and not practicing it as a whole or in part. Taqwa is the cause of happiness, salvation, relief of hardship, dignity, and success in life and the Hereafter.
Source

And so, with these few references amongst the many, recharge and rejuvenate. And remember the magnificence, the power, and the honour of this station we seek.

إِنَّ أَڪۡرَمَكُمۡ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتۡقَٮٰكُمۡ‌ۚ

Surely the noblest of you, in Allah’s sight, is the one with the most Taqwa.
[49:13]

إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يُحِبُّ ٱلۡمُتَّقِينَ

Truly, Allah loves the People of Taqwa.
[9:4]

And,

Yes,

That’s the last thing that flashed into my memory.

The last thing I saw before I dissolved into nothingness.

I lost myself in a daydream.

Do you remember that Ferris wheel?

Gleaming with red and yellow colourful lights against the dark canopy of the night?

The first and last time the carnival came to the streets of Baghdad.

Fireflies ignited lives.

…

To my unborn child,

Resting in the womb.

Precious:

They shot your daddy in the head.

Now,

Innocent blood will fill the streets.

Sweet mercy sing the midnight praises.

And you, my angel will cry.

I remember your rhythmic heartbeat; my ears heard your life.

I won’t get to see your face.

I won’t get to sing your praise.

I won’t get to hold you close.

I won’t get to explain your worth.

I won’t feel your small hands upon mine.

I won’t get to watch your fumbling steps.

I won’t get to hear your beautiful cry.

I won’t get to watch your face light up at the coming of a sunset.

Wont play peek-a-boo with you darling.

There won’t be sweet lullabies.

…

But I am certain, my angel you will cry.

I wish I could hold you close and dry those eyes.

You are a star light beaming so bright in this hell we call life.

Don’t ever lose your way.

Because you are an embankment of love.

The true essence of hope.

The reason I will live on.

Daddy will be with you, always.

…

The rivers are stained with the moons tears.

And the flowers are sad yet they feel it is their duty to blossom gallantly.

The leaves don’t rustle their silent tune.

The sun mourns; it’s defeated by dark rain clouds.

The earth mourns the loss of love.

I want to live, like the strings on a guitar that wants to be strung.

But there is no music.

There is no more air.

…

Don’t ever doubt that daddy didn’t love you.

Daddy was killed because hate is a cruel thing.

And it drives people to do crazy things.

Like killing innocent people who look a certain way.

My life existed only to be misinterpreted.

But please don’t erase my memory.

Can’t you see baby, my dreams are now etched on your palms.

Stay strong for daddy.

…

My angel, remember to look towards the sky sometimes and show me your blessed face.

Heaven knows I was right; you have your mother’s eyes and my hair.

I’m sorry, I was taken away.

If I had even a minute to spend it would be with you.

Stars twinkle, on the dark canvas of the night.

They say death is but a mere melody waiting to be sung.

They say our fingerprints don’t fade from the lives we touch.

So remember me.

And hush now baby,

Sleep tight,

Listen to your mama,

Only God is by your side.

…

And,

Yes,

That’s the last thing that flashed into my memory.

The last thing I saw before I dissolved into nothingness.

I lost myself in a daydream.

It was the Ferris wheel, turning slowly.

Taking its time as if it was savoring every moment.

Every precious millisecond of life.

They say love saves all.

My angel:

You are loved.

Rest in the womb.

Let love stroke your life.

I love you.

I hope it echoes for eternity.

How often do things not go your way? Whether it be missing the last bus, or failing a test even though we made du’ah? How do you deal with the problems that arise every single day? In the moment when you are upset, you are most likely to say things such as “Why is this happening to me?” or “What have I done to deserve this?” The answer is simple; it is the Decree of Allah, ‘Azz wa Jal. How we deal with the trials we face in life is up to us- pleased or displeased. Dealing with them in a way which Allah will be pleased with however, should be our ultimate goal.

Every so often we find ourselves falling into the trap of the shaytaan and are easily swayed if our supplications are not answered. We should remind ourselves, constantly, if need be, not to hasten in supplication. No matter what difficulties have befallen us, whatever our circumstances and situations may be, we should strive to persevere in patience. It goes without saying that we should put aside our problems and difficulties and count our blessings.

It is reported that Shurayh – Allâh have mercy on him – said, “If I am afflicted with a calamity, I praise Allâh for it four times: I praise Him because it wasn’t worse than it was, I praise Him when He gives me the patience to bear it, I praise Him for enabling me to say al-istirjâ’ (‘To Allâh we belong and to him we will return’) in hope of a great reward, and I praise Him for not making it a calamity in my religion.”

Al-Dhahabî, Siyar A’lâm Al-Nubalâ`, in his biography of Shurayh Al-Qâdî. Source.

This serves as a reminder to me, first and foremost, that we should be patient and not lose hope in Allah (Subhanah wa Ta’ala).

Being content with the Qadar or Divine Decree of Allah is of great significance. This Pillar of Faith is something that we all believe in, and is also something that we should all be satisfied with, as Allah, the Most High, has chosen this way for us. For all we know, the reason for our anxieties and difficulties could be trials and tests decreed for us by Allah (Subhanah wa Ta’ala) to make us better Muslims. Patience with that which Allah has decreed is of great reward and is beautiful in the Sight of Allah, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“The greatest reward comes with the greatest trial. When Allah loves a people, He tests them. Whoever accepts that wins His pleasure, but whoever is discontent with that earns His wrath.”
–Narrated by Tirmidhi

Ask yourselves, when it comes to the tests that you face in your day to day lives, are you earning the pleasure of Allah (Subhanah wa Ta’ala) or are you earning His wrath? Wa iyadubIllah, may we be protected from that, aameen. Being discontent with the circumstances we face is not wise, as what initially seems bad for us may turn out to be what is best for us.

Allah, The Blessed and Exalted, says in the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning):

“It may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows but you do not know.”
– Surah Al-Baqarah 2:216

We should really be thankful and grateful for our circumstances. It may be that something you really want is actually the reason that you will be led astray from the path of Allah (Subhanah wa Ta’ala). In truth, missing out on something you’ve been making du’ah for may be a good thing. This may be why He has kept it away from you. Now it may also be that you loathe something which turns out to be beneficial to you for you, both in this life and the hereafter.

As Muslims, we should realize that we have to be content with our situation and know that whatever He has chosen for us is for the best. Rather than complain to Allah (Subhanah wa Ta’ala) about our problems and why our prayers are not answered, we should count the numerous blessings that have been bestowed upon us and be thankful. How often does something not go our way and suddenly our imaan has decreased? Do we turn away from Allah, ‘Azz wa Jal, or do we say “Alhamdulillah, QaadarAllahu wa maa shaa fa’al” and be pleased?

Allah, The Glorified, says in the Qur’aan (interpretation of the meaning):

“And surely, We gave you authority on the earth and appointed for you therein provisions (for your life). Little thanks do you give.”
– Surah Al-A’raf 7:10

Allah (Subhanah wa Ta’ala) states that He has given us ability to do as we please and has blessed us with provisions to live (i.e. food, shelter) and we are still ungrateful. Is this not our condition? Brothers and sisters do not let the whispers of the shaytaan affect you and lead you every which way. Remember not to worry and always comfort yourself with the words of the Messenger (peace be upon him):

“How wonderful is the situation of the believer, for all his affairs are good. If something good happens to him, he gives thanks for it and that is good for him; if something bad happens to him, he bears it with patience, and that is good for him. This does not apply to anyone but the believer.”
–Narrated by Muslim

May Allah (Subhanah wa Ta’ala) open our hearts to contentment with His Decree, give us peace of mind about our matters and concerns, make our hardships easy, fill our hearts with happiness and grant us satisfaction in our affairs. *Aameen*

Bismillah Al-Rahman Al-Raheem,

The Fajr (or dawn) salah can be one of the most difficult prayers for practicing Muslims to uphold for the obvious reason that it typically falls at a time when most of us are probably in our deepest stages of sleep and comfort. While some may find it surprisingly easy to simply sleep through Fajr, it takes an understanding of the importance and virtues of Fajr, and effective “sleep-hostile” techniques, in order to build a consistent Fajr cycle and to ensure we are fulfilling the obligations that Allah (subhana wat’ala) has placed upon us.

THE VIRTUES OF FAJR

A detailed discussion on the importance of Fajr salah would require an entire discussion on its own, but here are a few sources which speak towards the importance of being consistent in our salah.

The Prophet (salAllahu ‘alayhi wasalam) said:  “The difference between a man (Muslim) and shirk and kufr is the abandoning of salaah.”
(Sahih Muslim: Kitab ul Iman: Book 001, Number 0147)

The Prophet (salAllahu ‘alayhi wasalam) was asked: “Which deed is dearest to Allah?” He replied “To offer the Salat (prayers) at their fixed times”
(Bukhari)

It has been narrated by Abu Hurairah that Nabi (salAllahu ‘alayhi wasalam) said:  “There is no Salaah that is more burdensome on a Munaafiq (hypocrite) than the Fajr and Eshaa Salaah.  If they knew the virtue of these Salaah they would perform them even if they had to come to the Masjid crawling.”
(Muslim)

In Surah al Maun, Allah says, “Woe to the people who pray, those who with their salah are sahun”

According to Tafsir Ibn Kathir:
They are those people who pray and adhere to the prayer, yet they are mindless of it. This may either be referring to its act entirely, as Ibn `Abbas said, or it may be referring to performing it in its stipulated time that has been legislated Islamically. This means that the person prays it completely outside of its time.

From the above sources alone, we can see just how imperative the salah is in Islam. But while it is evident that those of us who call ourselves Muslims must ensure that we are performing our five obligatory daily salawaat, simply praying is not enough- one must also ensure that all of their salawaat are performed at their prescribed times.  This includes, of course, the Fajr salah.

So what can be done by those of us who are finding it difficult to pray Fajr on a regular basis? Here are some techniques that you might find useful and that I would recommend you consider putting into action if you find yourself having trouble performing Fajr salah on a consistent basis:

1) START WITH THE INTENTION

Firstly, ensure that you go to bed with the clear and sincere intention to wake up that night to perform your Fajr prayer. Think about all of the times you have had to wake up early for an important occasion – be it an exam, work, or anything else. Whether or not you realize it, you have always had the intention of waking up and committing yourself to what you had to do, and the same logic can be applied here. When you buy into the sincere intention to wake up, you will be able to adhere to the next pieces of advice quite naturally.

2) SLEEP EARLY

Getting enough shut eye before Fajr is fundamental to ones ability to wake up on time. Those who are able to wake up on a consistent basis will usually tell you that this is probably the most decisive factor; sleep too close to Fajr time, and by the time you’re supposed to wake up, your body will be in such a deep state of sleep that you’ll either sleep through your alarm, or procrastinate after turning it off and fall back to sleep.

3) RELOCATE YOUR ALARM CLOCK

Have you ever had trouble trying to remember a conversation someone claims to have had with you while they were trying to wake you up? It’s an interesting phenomenon, but our minds function in bizarre ways in the state between sleep and wakefulness, which can lead to confusion and even minor amnesia. This often leads many to shut off their alarms without ever remembering it, only to wake up thinking “Why didn’t my alarm go off?!” If this sounds like you, try relocating your alarm clock to a position in your room that requires you to physically get up and turn it off. This will stop your unconscious mind from instinctively turning it off, and give you more time to reach the state of awareness needed to realize that the alarm is meant to wake you up. When it goes off, sit up in bed, say the shahadah, and in one swift motion, turn it off and head directly to make your wudu. I would also advise turning on as many lights on as possible, as light resets our biological rhythms and “turns on” our bodies, so to speak.

Disclaimer: Although this method can be effective, please do not solely rely on this approach, as I know some people who have practiced much more sophisticated methods (such as having an alarm app on their phone which forces them to do a math problem before they can turn the alarm off, or setting up multiple alarm clocks around their room, or both) only to end up shutting off their alarms off and going back to sleep.

4) SET UP A NETWORK

If all else fails do not despair. You are not alone. Why not set up an agreement with a group of friends to call each other for Fajr to ensure each is awake? This can be practiced for a few days or weeks until everyone in the group becomes consistent. In fact, the MSA here at York University already has a framework set up called the Fajr Network, where a local brother or sister will give you a personal wake up call everyday. Perfect!

http://yorkmsa.ca/blog/programs/fajr-network/

5) GIVE YOURSELF RESPONSIBILITY

I have personally found that I am much more likely to wake up if I force my parents and siblings to keep their alarms off and entrust me to act as a global alarm clock for the household. This puts the onus on me to wake everyone else up for prayer, and makes me that much more determined to wake up on time. InshaAllah practicing this method will not only lead to you being rewarded for your efforts in calling others to prayer, but you might even become motivated to ensure that you are not to blame for everyone missing their salah.

6) KNOW THIS…

And finally, know for certain that those among us who obey the commands of Allah and His messenger have been promised victory in this world and/or the next (and Allah knows best). These commands include, but are not exclusive to, praying the five daily prayers at their prescribed times. Take a minute to think about that for a moment; Allah, the All-Mighty and Most-High, has promised us victory and success in this life and the next, inshaAllah, and Allah always keeps His promises, especially to His slaves who struggle and strive in His path. For those of us hoping to attain some goal in this life, and the ultimate goal of Jannah in the next, know for certain that being consistent in salah- the first thing we will be asked about on the Day of Resurrection- will have a direct correlation to our success.

Research shows that, on average, it takes approximately 2 months to make a habit (Lilly et al. 2009), so make sure to put in a real and honest effort to wake up on a consistent basis if you haven’t yet established a routine.

Is there anything here that I missed, or are there any specific techniques that you use which you find effective in helping you wake up for Fajr? Please feel free to share them with us in the comments section below. Who knows, someone may end up using your advice for the rest of their lives!

As-Salaamu ‘alaykum Wa Rahmatullahi Wabarakatu,

Bismillah, Wa-alhamdulillah, wasalatu wasalam ‘ala Rasoolillah.

Islam Awareness Week is upon us again, alhamdulillah! A lot of brothers and sisters are really excited to take advantage of another opportunity to do their part and convey the beautiful message of Al-Islam. The purpose of this short post is to, insh’Allah, provide some additional and timely beneficial reminders to keep everyone charged up for da’wah for the rest of the week.

Let’s start from the top; the word da’wah (دعوة) itself refers to calling, or inviting. That’s an important thing to keep in mind, because a lot of brothers and sisters sometimes think IAW stands for Debating-People-Into-A-Corner-Week. Think about it, how do you behave when you’re inviting someone over to your house? Do you make the person feel comfortable and welcome with simple and straightforward speech, or do you try to pull out your tabulated statistical data of past invite declines paired with the mean travel distance, standard deviation (all with sample calculations in the appendix, of course) down their throats? Of course there is a time and a place to debate, but chances are if you try to debate everyone you see you’re going to get frustrated pretty fast and end up eating all of our shahadah candy.

Speaking of shahada’s, it’s easy for us to get overwhelmed when we don’t see the results we’d like. Our duty is very clear; it is only to convey the message as best as possible. Allah (subhana wat’ala) says in the Qur’an:

مَّا عَلَى ٱلرَّسُولِ إِلَّا ٱلۡبَلَـٰغُ‌ۗ
“The Messenger’s duty is but to convey the Message.”
[al-Qur’aan, al-Maai`dah 5:99]

Look at the examples of the Prophets, they went through trial after trial, hardship after hardship, but remained determined and steadfast upon their noble duty. Nuh (‘alayhi salam) spent 950 years calling to tawheed! Take that in for a second, nine-hundred and fifty years! And even after that, Allah says in the Qur’an:

وَمَآ ءَامَنَ مَعَهُ ۥۤ إِلَّا قَلِيلٌ۬
And none believed with him, except a few.”
(Al-Qur’an, Hud 11:40)

This should be enough for us to seriously question why we get discouraged so fast after just a couple of minutes of dealing with a philosopher who thinks everything is a dream. Even without direct results, we are rewarded for our intentions; in fact there are countless rewards for the one striving in da’wah.

The Prophet sualAllahu ‘alayhi wasalam said:

من دعا إلى هدى كان له من الأجر مثل أجور من تبعه لا ينقص ذلك من أجورهم شيئاً , ومن دعا إلى ضلالة كان عليه من الإثم ، مثل آثام من تبعه لا ينقص ذلك من آثامهم  شيئاً

“Whoever calls others to guidance will have a reward like the rewards of those who follow him, without that detracting from their reward in any way. And whoever calls others to misguidance will have a burden of sin like the burden of those who follow him, without that detracting from their burden in any way.”
(Narrated by Muslim, 2674)

Allah (subhana wat’ala) has given us a very powerful incentive not only to be very hesitant in our speech, but to also be really enthusiastic in our efforts to spread haqq. Imagine if Allah guides someone to Islam through you, or one brother or sister through you to establish their salah, or to remove a serious sin from their life.  Ponder for a moment, if Allah guides someone to start praying through you, and that person then has the same effect on two other people (and so on), that’s multiplied by a factor of Σ2ⁿ for each kink in the chain, so for 10 people that’s like x2047! This is just loose-pondering and I don’t want to start some sort of reward calculator trend (so don’t try to make an iPhone app), but just reflect on the immensity of the bounties that Ar-Rahman showers us with!

Finally, we can’t forget that da’wah includes educating Muslims as well, so remember to really go the extra mile in being inviting to Muslims you haven’t seen around, or those that you see but don’t know too well.

May Allah accept from us our efforts, and make us amongst those who strive in his cause. Ameen!