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Hidden Histories: Who were the first Muslims to come to Trinidad?

Many people believe that the first Muslims to come to Trinidad were from India.

Interestingly, there is much evidence to show that Muslims came to the Caribbean much earlier than that. Whether they stayed or not is the true mystery. As Trinidad and Tobago celebrates Indian Arrival Day, join us in uncovering some little known Islamic history. 

On May 30th 1845, the Fatel Razack alighted on our tropical shores and approximately 225 East Indian indentured labourers set foot on our lands. Not in their wildest imaginings could they ever have conceived the way they would shape the future of our resilient twin islands, Trinidad and Tobago. 

It is a popular misconception that Islam first arrived in the Caribbean with the first indentured labourers. In actuality, the Islamic presence made itself known even before then. Christoper Columbus was said to have had two captains of Muslim origin, and the Europeans were recorded to have brought prisoners for manual labour, many of whom were Moors, ie: Muslims. Many historians have even credited the safe arrival of Columbus to the Americas to maps and navigational information acquired by Spanish Muslims. They were known to have voyaged to the West and specifically to the Caribbean. In his book Before Columbus, Cyrus Gordon describes some 8th-century Islamic coins found close to Venezuela. This and much more compelling evidence would indicate that Islam graced the Caribbean prior to Columbus. 

When the African slaves came to Trinidad, one in five of them were of the Muslim faith. They were from Muslim tribes such as the Mandinka, the Fula, the Susu and the Hausa. These slaves were steadfast in their faith, despite the brutalities the Europeans meted out to them in attempts to stamp out their religion. The Europeans resorted to their most effective weapon: the destruction of their families. Even the Mandigo Muslims’ unwavering loyalty could not transcend to a generation that did not know their parents. With their children taken away from them and baptized into another faith, Islam died with the early generations. 

The coming of the Fatel Razack sowed the seed of permanence for the religion of Islam in Trinidad and Tobago. The Fath Al Razzaq translates from Arabic to “The Victory of Allah, The Provider.” It is widely known that the ship was named by its Muslim owner, Ibrahim bin Yussef.

With the abolition of slavery, the lives of the indentured labourers should have been easier, especially with respect to maintaining their faith. However, their public gatherings were met with inhumane punishments and numerous attempts to exterminate their beliefs. They were dissociated from the society of their employers and without much opportunity for family life, as well as the intent to return home, their fastidious efforts to hold on to their culture and religion were replenished. They focused their time and effort outside of work hours, establishing prayer areas made of mud and palm leaves with schools attached to them, solely for the teachings of Islam. Aside from gathering specifically for teaching and learning, they held fast to congregating for Friday prayer, Eid ul Fitr, Eid ul Adha, weddings, funerals, and the breaking of the fast.

Through all of these activities, they were able to do what the Mandigos could not: preserve their religion through their children. By the middle of the 1800s alone, there was a sizeable community of Muslims in Port of Spain, Manzanilla and Quaré. When their contracts ended, Trinidad had become the homeland for many Muslims. They immediately built mosques in every district possible. Ennis B. Edmonds writes in Caribbean Religious History: “They were extremely organized socially and financially. One report indicated that the Port of Spain Muslims not only collectively saved to purchase each other’s freedom but also borrowed from one another to finance commercial and agricultural ventures. The Muslim community in Trinidad was probably one of the largest, most successful and most visible in the Americas.”

Islam arrived at our shores, adding to the diversity and rich culture of our beautiful Trinidad and Tobago. Were it not for the efforts of the progressive minds of our ancestors, Trinidad and Tobago, as an accepting and multicultural society, would not exist. Up until today, even though Muslims make up only around 6 per cent of the population, evidence of the Islamic presence can be found anywhere you look. With over 100 mosques, and the superfluous presence of Islamic clothing stores, Islamic book stores, and an abundance of Halaal food, Trinidad boasts a strong Islamic presence. 

With nationwide support of Islamic functions, efforts to educate the community about Islam, and even a public holiday for Eid ul Fitr, we have come far from the days when Muslims peacefully gathering for Eid celebrations inspired panic and violence. With the development of Islamic primary and secondary schools, students of all races and religions are now allowed to benefit from both a secular education as well as an in-depth understanding of the religion. 

Muslims have long contributed to the economy of Trinidad and Tobago by the establishment of businesses of all types, large and small, even exporting to countries all over the world. 

In the field of politics, Muslims have held many different and important governmental positions, not least of all, head of state. The Honourable Noor Hassanali held this position from 1987 to 1997. He was the second president of Trinidad and Tobago and the first Muslim head of state in the entire Western Hemisphere.

Islam has existed alongside other religions and other cultures since its founding days. The rich heritage of the Muslims in Trinidad and Tobago is undeniable. Our African and East Indian ancestors endured unspeakable hardships in order to forge a better life for themselves and their families and over a hundred years later, we are reaping the benefits of their struggles. They came and they made Trinidad and Tobago their home, earning their place in the magnificent history of this beautiful land. But most of all, they have proved to the world that Islam is a religion that flourishes, not only under the hands of kings but through the tribulations of slaves. They will forever remain living proof that Islam is indeed a religion for one and all. 

By: Noorie K. Khan

 

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Stop Bad Habits
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“Plain talk bad manners”

This is a common Caribbean slang that can be considered an oxymoron. “Plain talk” is not a bad thing, provided it’s done in the right way. For Trinidadians however, the culture of plain talk bad manners often goes way beyond the bounds of Islamic social etiquette. In Islam, your character is an identifying trait that makes you stand out from others. More importantly, it is a measure of the goodness of a person.

The Prophet ﷺ, said, “Nothing is heavier upon the scale of a believer on the Day of Resurrection than his good character. Verily, Allah hates the vulgar and obscene.” (Tirmidhī)

Trini culture is vulgar. There’s no denying that this has been an issue for generations, especially with the dawn of the new age of nudity, alcohol, liming, partying and gyrating in the streets for Carnival. No solution has yet been produced for this problem, though attempts have been made. “Prime Minister Patrick Manning is to engage with the inter-religious organisation to come up with suggestions to at least curb what they consider vulgar aspects of the masquerade.” – BBC Caribbean, 2006.

As ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (RA) has famously said: “Take account of yourselves before you are brought to account (on the Day of Judgment).” Every person should engage in deep self-reflection in every aspect of their lives. Their beliefs, their family life, their social life, and their livelihood should be under constant improvement. A Muslim is never stagnant.

While most Muslims make a conscious effort to stay away from open vulgarity, how many of us indulge in other aspects of Trini culture with little thought for how this affects us as Muslims? Do we recognize our inability to maintain social Islamic manners and etiquette?

Many of the common behaviours of Trinbagonians are not becoming of a dignified society, and certainly do not conform with what our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ outlined for us as acceptable behaviour. While it is impossible to address all of the issues, a few pertinent ones will be highlighted as food for thought.

“Nobody cyah tell meh what to do!”
-Said Ramesh, while being directed by a police officer.

We as a Trinbagonian society have little respect for authority and far less for the laws of the land. Mixed in with shamelessness and a general lack of accountability, this is the recipe for a lawless society. The quality of arrogance – believing that no one is above you – is catastrophic and its destruction is devastating. This evil trait might be commonplace in Trinbagonian culture but is rooted in the volatile trait of kibr (pride) which was the sin of Shayṭān. Furthermore, being subject to criticism is something an arrogant person hates. They are dismayed by the idea of damage to their prestige. When told that they have made an error, rather than solving the problem, they focus on absolving themselves of any blame. The plight of such people is highlighted in the Qur’ān: “Enter the gates of hell to abide in it eternally, evil is the final destination of the arrogant.” (39:72)

“Doh study he. He too dotish!”
-Said Marlon, after being asked about putting his garbage in the neighbour’s yard.

It is a norm in Trinidad that when we disagree with someone’s actions, we very quickly turn to ‘character assassination’. Rather than weighing out the pros and cons of a certain action, logic goes out the window and we start attacking the person themselves. We bring up unrelated things they have done in the past to undermine the person’s character, believing that by making ourselves look better, we will be perceived as being right. The problem often goes unsolved. Going around needlessly destroying peoples’ character and advertising their faults is detrimental to society and completely against Islamic etiquette.

“Whoever conceals the (hidden) fault of his Muslim brother, Allah (SWT) will conceal his faults on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever exposes the fault of his Muslim brother, Allah will expose his faults, until He shames him, due to it, in his (own) house.” (Ibn Majah)

“Yuh get so fat since last time ah see yuh!”
-Said Aminah, after inserting herself into a conversation.
While there is something to be said for speaking plainly, this is plainly insulting. Derogatory comments casually disguised as friendly small talk are the norm in T&T. It is not acceptable to make unconstructive negative comments toward people. “Long time I eh see yuh. You does only call me when you need something.” These types of thoughtless remarks can leave a person in emotional upheaval for days and some of us will never know the damaging impact of our actions. If one intends to correct someone, there is an etiquette to be followed in reforming people. Being “boldfaced” does not fall within those bounds. Instead, the words of the Prophet ﷺ should be taken into account, “Let the one who believes in Allah and the Last Day speak good or remain silent.” (Ṣaḥīḥ Bukhārī)

“Ah jus dey relaxing.”
-Said Mark, after relaxing for the entire year.
Trinidad and Tobago has been named the happiest Caribbean country. Whether this is due to genuine happiness, or a complete lack of work ethic remains to be seen. From prioritising partying and drinking to skiving off work on rainy days, Trinbagonians’ poor work ethics have reached crisis proportions. Educators and sociologists have suggested that part of the problem has to do with the home and society. Islam as a whole pushes Muslims towards a disciplined and productive lifestyle. Islam promotes focus, purpose and ambition, and no Muslim should be stagnant in their deen, their livelihood or any other aspect of their lives.

The solution:
Studies show that a culture shock is the only way to create full societal reform. There are, however, progressive ways to start improving moral and ethical codes, and it starts with you. Below are four simple and effective ways to create the change needed in society:

The Prophet ﷺ left behind a comprehensive code of behaviour that all Muslims should make effort to learn about. Through training and implementation of the Prophetic advice, we as a society need to continuously improve ourselves.

We need to incorporate self-introspection and sincere du’ā for Allah to rectify our affairs. A simple du’ā by the Messenger of Allah ﷺ:
اللَّهُمَّ وَاهْدِنِي لأَحْسَنِ الأخْلَاقِ، لا يَهْدِي لأَحْسَنِهَا إلَّا أَنْتَ، وَاصْرِفْ عَنِّي سَيِّئَهَا، لا يَصْرِفُ عَنِّي سَيِّئَهَا إلَّا أَنْتَ
خرجه مسلم في الصحيح
Allahumma ahdinī li-aḥsani ‘l-akhlāqi, lā yahdī li aḥsanihā illā anta. Waṣrif `annī sayyi’ahā, lā yaṣrifu `annī sayyi’ahā illā anta.
O Allah guide me to the best of characters for none can guide to it other than You, and deliver me from the worst of characters for none can deliver me from it other than You.

A highly effective propellent of culture change is creating a positive environment. Our environment and the people who surround us have a powerful impact on the way we behave. We must ensure that we keep ourselves in the company of righteous and well-mannered people.

Lastly, we must adopt the practice of tazkiyyah. Constant purification of our hearts and nafs is fundamental in the relationship of a Muslim with his Lord.

By following this advice, we can truly transform ourselves, add weight to our scales, and leave behind a legacy worth remembering.

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The Preparation Equation: Gearing up for Ramaḍān 

اللهم بلغنا رمضان

Oh Allah, allow us to reach Ramaḍān!

This is the duā’ that was constant on the tongues of the Aṣḥāb (companions of the Prophet ﷺ) outside of the month of Ramaḍān. They would beg Allah to allow them to live until the next Ramaḍān, such was their love for the holy month. 

Unlike the Aṣḥāb, many of us do not spend the entire year anticipating the next Ramaḍān. In fact, when Ramaḍān approaches, the thoughts at the forefront of our minds more often reflect worry rather than excitement. How am I going to fast while working in the hot sun? How am I going to manage with tarāwīḥ when I work at night? Can I afford to throw an ifṭār like I do every year? These types of thoughts can leave us worried about our Imān especially when everyone else seems to be excited. 

While joy and excitement should be the disposition of a believer at the thought of Ramaḍān, many may not be at that level of Iman as yet. Everyone has their own challenges to face during the month. It is natural to worry about these things, as long as they don’t amount to a feeling of dread or dislike for the beloved month. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather be one of those showing concern for the month of Ramaḍān rather than being careless and unconcerned at its approach. 

Of course, feelings of excitement and anticipation amount to nothing if they are not accompanied by action. Even though it carries its own virtues, Sha’bān is famously known for being the month of preparation for Ramaḍān. Have you ever heard the old adage, ‘if you fail to prepare then prepare to fail?’ Well, with blessings coming so freely in Ramaḍān, failing would be a difficult achievement. However, to not maximize on the true rewards of the month can be considered a failure in itself. Here are some tips to avoid ‘failing to prepare.’

Make Goals

What do you intend to achieve during the month of Ramaḍān? Here is an example of what your goals can look like:

  • Read a portion of the Qur’ān every day (in Arabic or English)
  • Pray 12 sunnah raka’āt every day
  • Pray all farḍ ṣalāh on time
  • Make duā’ every day before breaking fast
  • Do morning and evening dhikr
  • Memorise a new surah
  • Pray all 20 raka’āt of tarāwiḥ each night
  • Study Qāidah or Tafṣeer every day
  • Give ṣadaqah weekly
  • Whatever you do, just be sure to make S.M.A.R.T goals. 

Every goal you make should be Specific; easily explainable and not ambiguous in any way. You should be able to Measure it (2 raka’āt, 1 juz, $10 in charity). If your aim is not something Achievable – like spending all night, every night praying – then you are setting yourself up to fail. Ensure that you are doing something Relevant to your end result; don’t beat around the bush. When planning, Time is of the essence. You should have a clear start and end date in mind. Apply this rule to any goal and combine it with dedicated action. With Allah’s help, you will achieve any success your heart desires! 

Strategise

You have four weeks in which to start working on these goals. You should start by doing a lighter version of what you eventually want to achieve and increase in amount as each week passes. The key to this is that the increase should be so subtle that there is no chance of overwhelming yourself and giving up. You can start the first week by praying 2 raka’āt sunnah every day. For week 2, increase it to 4 raka’āt every day. Week 3, increase to 8 raka’āt and then finally, to 12 raka’āt in the last week. If you want to read 1 juz of the Quran every day then start with a quarter, increase to half, then three quarters, and in the final week, you should be at 1 juz a day. That way, by the end of the month, you can transition seamlessly into Ramaḍān. These goals are to be applied during the month of Ramaḍān as well. You can start the first 10 days by doing 5 minutes of dhikr, reading etc, then increase to 10 then to 15 minutes in the last 10 days. If this is your first Ramaḍān as a Muslim and you want to try implementing your 5 times daily ṣalāh for the first time, start with one ṣalāh then slowly increase to all five. 

Pro tip: Prepare for failure!

Everyone messes up. There will be times when you miss your goal. The true distinction between success and failure is often determined by how you react when things don’t go the way you plan. Do you throw in the towel? Or do you pick yourself up and get back on track the next day? A good rule of thumb is: skip once, but not twice. If you miss one day, that’s fine, but make sure to complete your task the next day. 

Other things you may want to do before the month of Ramaḍān is upon us:

MAKE A WISHLIST 

Have you ever sat down to make duā’ but you couldn’t remember what you wanted? It happens to the best of us. Fasting is a time where duā’s are answered so be prepared for your meetings with Allah. Throughout the month, think of things that you want to include in your duā’s and add them to your “wishlist.” 

STAY AWAY FROM SINS!

This one goes without saying. Backbiting, gossiping, lying, listening to music, smoking etc are all things that you’d want to cut off during Ramaḍān. Don’t wait until the first day of Ramaḍān to start trying to control your nafs (desires). Even better is if you commit to giving up one bad habit completely for the sake of Allah. One small decision for you can equate to one giant step towards Allah. 

GEAR UP FOR FASTING

The Prophet ﷺ fasted the most in this month out of any other month besides Ramaḍān. Look out for special days of fasting like Ayāmul beeḍ (the three white nights), the 15th of Sha’bān, or Monday and Thursday of every week. 

SAVE UP FOR SADAQAH

Planning your finances in advance for Ramaḍān can save you a lot of stress. Imagine being ready to give your ṣadaqah, or feed a fasting person, only to realise you’ve spent all of your money on ‘Īd decorations and presents! Protect the investments towards your hereafter!

MEAL PREP

Start preparing in advance what you’d like your Ramaḍān meals to look like. Try to spend as little time during the month worrying about grocery shopping, ifṭār preparations and the like. It can also be beneficial to start preparing your body for lighter meals, and work on curbing those cravings. Overeating at ifṭār and gorging on junk food is counteractive to the many natural health benefits of fasting. 

HAVE A GREEN RAMADAN

Ramaḍān is a month in which food wastage and plastic consumption run rampant. As Muslims, we have a responsibility towards the environment that should not be ignored. Preparation should be made to lessen down on plastic bottles, plates and cutlery where possible. Food should also be plated in a way that best avoids wastage. “And do not waste, for Allah does not love the wasteful. [Qur’ān 6:141]

Last but never least, make duā’. Make duā’ that Allah looks favourably on your careful preparation for his beloved month and that He draws you closer to him. Make duā’ for a prosperous Ramaḍān and accepted deeds. Make duā’ to live until Ramaḍān, just as the Aṣḥāb did. 

Have you figured out the Preparation Equation as yet?

Knowledge + Preparation = Success

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge, it’s time to put action into place. May Allah grant you an easy path toward Him.

To help you along the way, we’ve included a free printable ‘ibādah tracker. While it’s best to have this somewhere you can see it every day, if you prefer to go digital there are many free apps like habitca, dreamfora, etc. Choose the one you are more likely to use. Shaban Ibadah tracker

Article By Aalimah  Noorie Khan

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The neglected month – Sha’bān?

 

‏ ذَلِكَ شَهْرٌ يَغْفُلُ النَّاسُ عَنْهُ بَيْنَ رَجَبٍ وَرَمَضَانَ وَهُوَ شَهْرٌ تُرْفَعُ فِيهِ الأَعْمَالُ إِلَى رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ فَأُحِبُّ أَنْ يُرْفَعَ عَمَلِي وَأَنَا صَائِم‏

“I said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, I do not see you fasting any month as much as Sha’bān.’ He said: ‘That is a month which people neglect, between Rajab and Ramaḍān. It is a month in which the deeds are taken up to the Lord of the Worlds, and I like that my deeds be taken up when I am fasting.”‘ (Nasa’ī)

Overshadowed by the importance of Ramaḍān, Sha’bān has always been a neglected month. It’s importance should not be overlooked as it is filled with opportunities for good deeds that will be raised before Allah, and it was the month in which the Prophet ﷺ spent the most amount of time fasting. Additionally, it is a month in which many momentous things occurred, like the changing of the prayer direction to the Ka’bah and the revelation of the command to fast in the month of Ramaḍān.

With Ramaḍān on the horizon, let us not be among those who pay little attention to this month.

Here is an article detailing one of the auspicious occasions in the month of Sha’bān By Hadhrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh:

The Significance of Sha’bān

Sha’bān, the eighth Islamic month is second only to Ramadān in virtue, blessings and greatness. It is due to this virtue and greatness that the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam used to emphasise its importance not only verbally but practically too.

‘Ā’ishah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā narrates, “Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam used to fast till we would say that he would never stop fasting and he would abandon fasting till we would say that he would never fast. I never saw Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam fasting for a whole month except the month of Ramadān and did not see him fasting in any month more than in the month of Sha’bān.”(Bukhārī, Muslim, Abū Dāwūd, Nasa’ī)

‘Ā’ishah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā narrates, “Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam used to fast the (whole) month of Sha’bān except for a few days.” (Nasa’ī)

Usāmah radhiyallāhu ‘anhu asked, “O Rasūlullāh! I do not see you fasting in any month as much as in Sha’bān.” He replied, “It is a month people are negligent of between Rajab and Ramadān. It is a month in which deeds are raised towards the Lord of the worlds. Therefore, I like my deeds to be raised whilst I am fasting.”(Nasa’ī)

Fifteenth of Sha’bān

Amongst the days and nights of Sha’bān, there is one night called Laylat-al-Barā’at orShabe Barā’at, a night noted for its great blessings and virtues. The Glorious Qur’ān describes it as the blessed night.

Lo! We revealed it on a blessed night. (44:3)

According to ‘Ikrimah radhiyallāhu ‘anhu and a group of mufassirīn, the ‘blessed night’ referred to in this verse is the fifteenth night of Sha’bān.

Fortunate indeed are those who attain the full blessings and benefits of this night by spending it in performing good and refraining from evil. One must strive his utmost to attend to ‘ibādah (worship) in this auspicious night as this night indeed is a great favour of Allāh ta’ālā for the believers. There are a number of ahādīth in regard to this night.

(1)  ‘Alī radhiyallāhu ‘anhu narrates that Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam said, “When it is the fifteenth of Sha’bān, then stand (in worship) at night and fast during the day. Because Allāh ta’ālā descends in this night at sunset to the first heaven and says: ‘Is there any seeker of forgiveness, that I may forgive him? Is there any seeker of sustenance, that I may sustain him? Is there anyone in affliction, that I may remove his affliction? Is there anyone like this, like that (and so on)’. This continues until Fajr.” (Ibn Mājah)

(2)  Abū Mūsā Al-Ash’arī radhiyallāhu ‘anhu narrates that the Messenger of Allāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam said, “In the fifteenth night of Sha’bān, Allāh ta’ālā manifests and forgives all His creation except for the Mushrik (idolater) and the spiteful.” (Ibn Mājah)

(3)  ‘Ā’ishah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā narrates: “The Messenger of Allāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam came to me (one night) and took off his clothes, but he had hardly sat down when he got up again, put on his clothes and left. A strong ghayrah (sense of honour and self-respect) overtook me as I thought he was going to one of his other wives. I followed him and found him in the graveyard of Baqī’ seeking forgiveness for believing men and women and the martyrs. I said (to myself), ‘May my parents be sacrificed for you. You, (the Prophet) are in want of your Lord and I am in want of the world.’

I returned to my room (quickly) and I was breathless. The Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam arrived shortly and said, ‘Why are you breathless, O ‘Ā’ishah?’ I said, ‘May my parents be sacrificed for you. You came to me and took off your clothes, but you had hardly sat down when you got up and put on your clothes (and left). A strong ghayrah overtook me and I thought you were going to one of your (other) wives until I saw you in (the graveyard of) Baqī’ doing whatever you were doing.’

He said, ‘O ‘Ā’ishah! Did you fear that Allāh and His Messenger will treat you with injustice? Jibra’īl came to me and said, ‘This night is the fifteenth night of Sha’bān. Allāh sets free from Hell during this night, souls equivalent to the hair (and wool) of the goats of Banī Kalb.’ (Banī Kalb possessed the largest number of goats in the Arabian peninsula.)

‘However, Allāh will not look (with mercy) even on this (auspicious) night towards idolaters, one who harbours ill-will against his fellow beings, one who cuts himself off from his near relatives, one who dangles his clothes over his ankles, one disobedient to parents and a habitual drunkard.’”

‘Ā’ishah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā says, “He took off his clothes, then said, ‘O ‘Ā’ishah! Will you permit me to spend this night in worship.’ I replied, ‘Certainly. May my parents be sacrificed for you.’ The Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam got up and remained in sajdah(prostration) for a very long time until I thought he had passed away. I got up to inquire and placed my hand on his feet to feel that he was alive, thus I became happy. I heard him say in his prostration:

‘I take refuge of Your forgiveness from Your punishment. I take refuge of Your pleasure from Your anger. I take refuge from You. Great is Your eminence. I cannot praise You (as You are worthy of praise). Your eminence is exactly as You have praised yourself.’

In the morning I mentioned these words to him. He said, ‘O ‘Ā’ishah! Learn them and teach them (to others) because Jibra’īl taught me and ordered me to repeat them over and over again in sajdah.’”  (Al-Bayhaqī)

Note: Muftī Taqī ‘Uthmānī hafizahullāh states: “Although the chain of narrators of some of these traditions suffers with some minor technical defects, yet when all these traditions are combined together, it becomes clear that this night has some well founded merits, and observing this night as a sacred night is not a baseless concoction as envisaged by some modern scholars who, on the basis of these minor defects, have totally rejected giving any special importance to this night. In fact, some of these traditions have been held by some scholars of hadīth as authentic and the defects in the chain of some others have been treated by them as minor technical defects which, according to the science of hadīth, are curable by the variety of their ways of narration. That is why the elders of the Ummah have constantly been observing this night as a night of special merits and have been spending it in worship and prayers.”

The Fast of the Fifteenth

The fast of the 15th of Sha’bān can only be derived from a hadīth that has a weak narrator in the chain of narration, due to which it cannot be relied upon in the matter of the injunctions of Sharī’ah. Thus, the fast of the 15th of Sha’bān cannot be termed as Sunnah or Mustahab in the strict sense of the term.  Nevertheless the fast could be kept without taking it as a Sunnah or Mustahab considering other factors such as:

a)   The fasts of the first half of Sha’bān have special merits as can be seen from the practice of the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam;

b)  The virtues of the fasts of Ayyām-al-Bīd (i.e. 13th, 14th and 15th of the Islamic month) have been mentioned in the ahādīth.

Recommended Deeds

The following practices are derived from the traditions of the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam which have been mentioned above for Sha’bān and its virtuous  15th night.

(1) It is desirable that one fast in the month of Sha’bān as much as one can. However, if fasting in Sha’bān is going to affect the fasting of Ramadān then one should refrain from it.

(2) Although salāh should be performed in  Jamā’ah (congregation) every day, on this auspicious night, one must participate with deep and solemn care in the Maghrib, ‘Ishā and Fajr Salāh.

(3) Spend as much time of the night as possible in worship individually. No specific du’ā or method of worship has been prescribed. One may engage in dhikr, recitation of the Qur’ān, salāh, learning and teaching or any other form of ‘ibādah. However, one must refrain from worldly talk and wasting time. If ‘ibādah is not possible then at least avoid all sinful and useless acts and go to bed as soon as possible.

(4) In one hadīth it has been mentioned that Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam visited the graveyard of Baqī’. However, one may not establish the practice to be Sunnah as there is no mention of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam making it a general practice of this night. Hence, if one visits the graveyard once in a while it will be permissible.

One must refrain in particular from all those practices that are contrary to the Sunnah. Many of us deprive ourselves of the blessings of such auspicious moments and the Favours of Allāh ta’ālā by following those customary acts which have no basis in the Qur’ān and Sunnah.

May Allāh ta’ālā guide us all on the straight path and enlighten us with the blessings of this sacred month and its blessed night. Āmīn.

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7 Steps to Becoming Debt-Free

Many people, at some point in their lives end up in financial debt. Nobody likes it, but it just happens. Taking loans is perfectly permissible in Islam, as long as it doesn’t entail riba (usury) and it isn’t for a purpose that is against Islam.

Hereunder are seven ways to remove the noose of debt from our necks.

Du’as for the Fulfillment of Debts

1) Dua: Sayyidah ‘Aaishah (radiyallahu’anha) says: “Rasulullah (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam) would seek refuge from debts at the end of his Salah (i.e, before the salam). When he was asked about why he did it so frequently, Rasulullah (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam) said:

“When a man falls into debt, he speaks lies and breaches his promises.”

(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 832 and 2397)

The words of that du’a are:

اللّٰهُمَّ إني أعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ المأْثَمِ وَالمَغْرَم
Allahumma inni a’udhu bika minal ma-thami wal maghram

O Allah! I seek your protection from sin and debts.

Note: If one cannot recite this before the salam, one could recite it after the salam with the hope that Allah Ta’ala accepts it.

 

2) Dua: Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) taught the following du’a to Sayyiduna Mu’ad ibn Jabal (radiyallahu’anhu) for removal of debts:

اللَّهُمَّ مَالِكَ الْمُلْكِ، تُؤْتِي الْمُلْكَ مَنْ تَشَاءُ، وَتَنْزِعُ الْمُلْكَ مِمَّنْ تَشَاءُ، وَتُعِزُّ مَنْ تَشَاءُ، وَتُذِلُّ مَنْ تَشَاءُ، بِيَدِكَ الْخَيْرُ، إِنَّكَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ، رَحْمان الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ تُعْطِيهمَا مَنْ تَشَاءُ، وَتَمْنَعُ مِنْهُمَا مَنْ تَشَاءُ، ارْحَمْنِي رَحْمَةً تُغْنِينِي بِهَا عَنْ رَحْمَةِ مَنْ سِوَاكَ
Allahumma Malikal Mulk, Tu-til mulka man tasha u watanzi’ul mulka mimman tasha u, wa tu’izzu man tasha u, watudhillu man tasha u, biyadikal khayru innaka ‘ala kulli shay in Qadir Rahmanad Dunya wal Akhirati tu’tihima man tasha u wa tamna’u minhuma man tasha u irhamni rahmatan tughni ni biha ‘an Rahmati man siwak

Translation: O Allah! Possessor of the kingdom, You give the kingdom to whom You will, and You take the kingdom from whom You will. You grant honour to whom You will and disgrace whom You will. In Your Hand is all good. Verily, You are able to do all things. [O] Most Merciful of this world and the Hereafter, You grant them to whomsoever You wish and You deprive whomsoever You wish. Shower upon me such mercy, which will make me independent from the mercy of those besides You.’

Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said to Sayyiduna Mu’adh (radiyallahu’anhu): “If you recite this du’a, your debts will be cleared even if they equal to mount Uhud.” (Al Mu’jamus saghir; see Majma’uz Zawa’id vol.10 pg.186).

Hafiz Haythami (rahimahullah) has classified its narrators as reliable and ‘Allamah Mundhiri (rahimahullah) has declared the chain as good. (Majma’uz Zawa’id vol.10 pg.186 and Targhib, vol.2 pg.614)

In another narration, Rasulullah (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam) is reported to have taught a similar du’a to Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radiyallahu’anhu). (Mustadrak Hakim, vol.1 pg.515) In a narration of Ibn Abi Shaybah, ‘Abdullah ibn Sabit says: Rasulullah (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam) would himself recite these words and give it great importance. (see Shaykh ‘Awwamah’s footnote on Majalis of Ibn Nasirud Din, pg.201)

The words are:

اللّٰهُمَّ فارِجَ الهَمِّ كاشِفَ الغَمِّ مُجِيْبَ دَعْوَةِ المُضْطَرِّين، رَحْمٰنَ الدنيا وَالآخِرَة ورَحيمَهُما، اِرْحَمْنِي اليَومَ رَحْمَةً وَاسعَةً تُغْنِيْنِيْ بِها عَنْ رَحْمَةِ مَنْ سِوَاكْ
Allahumma Farijal hammi Kashifal ghammi Mujiba da’watil Mudtarrin, Rahmanad Dunya wal Akhirati wa Rahimahuma irhamnil yawma Rahmatan wasi’atan tughnini biha ‘ar Rahmati man siwak

 

3) Dua: Sayyiduna ‘Ali (radiyallahu’anu) said that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) prescribed the following du’a for the settling of debts:

اللهُمَّ اكْفِنِي بِحَلالِكَ عَنْ حَرامكْ، وَأَغْنِني بِفَضْلِكَ عَمَّنْ سِواك
‘Allahummak fini bi halalika an haramik wa aghnini bi fadhlika amman siwak.’

Translation: O Allah! Let the Halal things you provide suffice me from haram, and by Your Grace, keep me independent from all besides You. (Sunan Tirmidhi – Imam Tirmidhi rahimahullah has classified this narration as hasan (sound) – Hadith 3563.)

 

4) Dua: In a narration of Sunan Abi Dawud, Sayyiduna Abu Sa’id (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reported that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) taught an Ansari Sahabi the following du’a for the repayment of his overwhelming debts:

اللهُمَّ إنّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الهَمِّ والْحَزَن، وأعوذ بك مِنَ الْعَجزِ وَالكَسل، وأعوذ بك من الجُبْنِ والبُخْل، وأعوذ بك مِنْ غَلَبَةِ الدَّين وَقَهْرِ الرجال
Allahumma inni a’udhu bika minal hammi wal hazan, wa a’udhu bika minal ‘ajzi wal kasl, wa a’udhu bika minal jubni wa bukhl, wa a’udhu bika min ghalabatid dayn wa qahrir rijal.

Translation: O Allah! I seek refuge in You from worries and difficulty, and I seek refuge in You from inability and laziness, and I seek refuge in You from cowardice and miserliness, and I seek refuge in You from the dominance of debt and being subjected to man. Note: This du’a should be recited morning and evening. (Abu Dawud, Hadith 1550)

 

5) Recite abundantly:

لا حول ولا قوة إلا بالله
La Hawla wala quwwata illa billah

(Sunan Tirmidhi and Mustadrak Hakim, see Targhib, vol.2 pgs. 444 and 617)

 

6) Repentance: Abundant Istighfar (seeking forgiveness) is also a potent way to remove financial and other worries. (surah Nuh, Ayah: 10-11)

Rasulullah (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam) has said: “Whoever steadily recites istighfar (like the words: Astaghfirullah) will find Allah creating ease for him from every difficulty and relief from every worry and Allah will provide sustenance for him from where he cannot fathom” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith: 1513. Imam Hakim has declared this narration as sahih-authentic- see Targhib, vol.2, pg.617)

 

7) Intention– Most important is one’s intention to repay the debt. The Hadith promises Allah’s help for those who sincerely want to settle their debts. (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 2387, also see Targhib, vol.2 pg.598)

May Allah Ta’ala keep us all debt free. Amin.

Article courtesy: https://al-miftah.com/

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We Used to Be Activists

We used to be activists!

The Prophet ﷺ was an activist. He changed the system. A system that in jahiliyyah saw the weak – including women, foreigners, those without rights – oppressed. It saw the leaders do whatever they wanted with impunity. There was no one to stop them from taking another’s wealth, property, and family. The Prophet ﷺ strived against injustice. He enjoined the good and forbade the evil (al-amr bi al-ma`ruf wa an-nahy `an al-munkar). No wonder, those in power hated him and those who were weak loved him. Ask yourself, “Do the weak love us today like they loved him ﷺ yesterday?” Do the weak even know us as they knew him ﷺ?

The four successors to our Prophet ﷺ were also activists. The reign of Sayyiduna `Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) saw him preoccupied with the condition of people. Did the people have food to eat and resources to live? If not, Sayyiduna `Umar went out himself to make a difference. He encouraged his governors to adopt piety and concern for people. He kept them in check. If he noted they were too comfortable in their power, he called them back home. Where is our concern for people? Are we checking our officials? Do we call them back (unelect them) and speak up against them when they become too comfortable in power? Or is this mere dinner-party talk?

The salaf al-saliheen too were activists after the four successors. Sufyan al-Thawri once came across the khalifah of the time during Hajj. He said to Sufyan, “O Sufyan, how can I help you?” “Fear Allah, for you have filled the earth with injustice,” Sufyan boomed. “You have reached your position on the backs of those who fought and died before you. Now, their descendants die of hunger. So fear Allah, and give them their rights,” he continued. “Sayyiduna `Umar performed Hajj, and he spent a little over ten dirhams. I see so much wealth here with you that even a mountain could not hold it!” came the final deafening statement. The khalifah lowered his head in acknowledgement—even rulers at that time had humility. Do our officials hear us as they heard our predecessors? We have become a muted voice. We left the iman of actions and words and adopted the weakest kind.

The great Shafi`i scholar, Imam Nawawi, wrote:

The act of encouraging good and forbidding wrong has mostly been abandoned for a long time. Only small token actions are left from it…When vile people become many, then both righteous and irreligious people will suffer. If they are not taken away at the hands of the oppressor, then perhaps Allah will include them in His Punishment instead

فَلْيَحْذَرِ الَّذِينَ يُخَالِفُونَ عَنْ أَمْرِهِ أَن تُصِيبَهُمْ فِتْنَةٌ أَوْ يُصِيبَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ

“So let those beware who dissent from the Prophet’s order of a fitnah striking them or a painful punishment.”

We can be activists. There are too few of us that have taken on this responsibility and followed in the footsteps of those before us. Here are a couple steps to get started:

  1. Pick a cause. Whether it’s fighting against gun violence or for social equality, pick a cause that excites you and ignites your passion. It’s the collective passion of motivated individuals that leads to success.
  2. Find an organization. There are numerous organizations, both Muslim and non-Muslim, that act in accordance with Islamic values. Working alongside non-Muslims, leading them or fighting on behalf of them will do far more to change the negative perceptions of Islam than anything else. Ask others who are active in your field of interest. Research organizations online, and then, take it offline. Often times, online activities give us a good feeling and then, don’t translate to any real change.

We need to all get involved in community activism as an Islamic obligation so we aren’t pointing fingers at one another when we are asked about it by Allah. Let the people of every class and background know Muslims stand for the weak, for the oppressed, and for the good. We ask Allah for tawfiq and one another for du`ah.

by Shaykh Dr. Mateen Khan (Trenton, New Jersey)

 

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Ten Out of Ten: The First Ten Days of Dhul Ḥijjah

As the warmth of Ramaḍān fades and we get back to our routine, the 10 days of Dhul Ḥijjah can come as a surprise. Ramaḍān enters loudly, but these auspicious days steal upon us so silently that by the time many of us look up, they are almost gone. While Ramaḍān is collectively welcomed with anticipation and planning, these days are marked by the quiet exertion of a slave who patiently awaited its arrival. 

“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” The Prophet ﷺ described these days in Ṣaḥīḥ Bukhārī, without making any exception for the days of Ramaḍān and as such, scholars have concluded that they are even more magnanimous than even the month of Ramaḍān. 

For that reason alone, we should search for these days with the same fervour with which we anticipate the crescent moon of Ramaḍān. Allah has honoured these days and sworn by their nights. The reward of good deeds during this time is unlike any other. No true servant of Allah should be comfortable letting these days pass by without some sort of acknowledgement. Read more

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When the dust settles: being steadfast after Ramaḍān

“Indeed, those who say, ‘Our Lord is Allah!’ and then remain steadfast, the angels descend upon them (saying), ‘Do not fear, nor be grieved! Receive the good news of the paradise, which you have been promised.” (Qurān 41:30)

Ramaḍān is a month in which we upgrade ourselves. We spend the month challenging our normal ability to worship. We amaze ourselves by doing acts of ‘ibādah (worship) that we never thought we could ordinarily do. When Ramaḍān ends, we have greats plans to carry on these actions throughout the year and meet the next Ramaḍān ready and prepared.  Read more

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Tell Me About Eid?

Approaching the day of ‘Eid, there should be mixed emotions for Muslims divided between the sorrow of the departing of Ramadhan and the happiness of welcoming the Islamic celebration of ‘Eid notwithstanding the obvious “lockdown”
Ramadhan is a blessed month that brings about the best in our worship, good actions, spending and taqwa.
The celebration of Eid is due to religious achievement. Therefore, with recharged spiritual batteries, we now have the determination to optimise our performance and celebrate the blessed day in the method shown to us in the Sunnah.
Here are some Sunnah practices and guidelines that will be rewarding to us in particular to the day: Read more

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Appeal 2021

Be part of a noble effort and help preserve the Deen of Allah SWT at Al-Ihsaan Institute & Al-Ihsaan Private School. Keep watching to learn more about all our different programs and initiatives and how you can help and be a part of it all!
Account name: Al-Ihsaan Institute
Account no: 40725001205732 or 407251205732
Bank: Scotia bank, San Juan, Trinidad & Tobago
Type: Chequing
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