Spring of Ramadan:

The month of Ramadan is full of blessings and absolution. It is valuable month of earning
blessings, even wealth of the whole world can’t match a single moment spent in it.
Ramadan brings the good news of forgiveness after true “TOBA (repentance)”. With its
inception the value of “Nafal” (supererogatory prayer) is upgraded to “Faraz (obligatory
prayer)” and “Faraz” are multiplied by seventy or more. There is good tidings of
forgiveness for those who fast in the day and pray in the night. Prophet (PBUH) said:

“Whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping for a reward
from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven.”

There is reward of remission of sins for those who pray in the nights of Ramadan with the
sense of faith and accountability. Similarly, ALLAH says:

“O Believers! Fasting have been made obligatory upon you as were made obligatory
upon those before you, so that you may become pious.”

The believers are informed of the obligation of the fasting in this verse, that even its
single moment cannot be restored at the cost of wealth of the whole world. Therefore,
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) introduced Ramadan in the last days of Shabaan in these
words:
“O people, a great month, has come to you.

Its each and every second is full of blessings, mercies and glories. Allah bestows his
adjacency to human beings. Methods of combating devil with words and deeds, is
practiced in this month.
Every man must prove, through his actions that he is living every moment of his life
according to the bidding to Allah. Person who observes fast with this intention, has the
honor of having its bones praising God even in sleep.
The believers of the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) pray to Allah for sending
such valuable moments repeatedly in their lives and ask for the ability of respecting this
divine guest fully, so that they may take the benefit of this holy period. Allah has
bestowed Ramadan for the purpose of making up the deficiency of obedience, devotion
and prayers.

1. It must be kept in mind that the acceptance of all prayers is dependent on faith.
Devout is the one who is good in belief and action.

Every deed is refused in absence of faith. Therefore, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has
stipulated faith and sincerity for forgiveness and blessings in Ramadan.
Unluckily, we are living in the age of innumerable affrays and tumults as predicted by
Prophet Muhammad. Un-Islamic culture is influencing us through modern technology
very rapidly. Quran and sayings of Prophet are interpreted according to personal wishes.
While translating holy Quran no exalted or grand words are used for the names of God,
Prophet and his companions. According to the prediction of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
72 out of 73 sects are busy in their unsuccessful struggle of demoralizing or lessening the
people’s love for their prophet. They also work hard to degrade and bewilder the most
commonly accepted beliefs and customs of majority of Ummah. They try to scare the
youth by various wrong verdicts and drag them towards extremism. We must analyze our
faith in this situation in order to avoid any disregard for religion or any deed of
polytheism and heresy.
Ramadan should be welcomed with true repentance and revival of faith. Struggle for the
approbation of God must be kept up.

2. Human nature is influenced by evils of the environment unwillingly. You combat

habits and wishes the whole day. You do not use even permissible things in these
specified hours for the sole purpose of Allah’s willingness. It provides you the best
opportunity of abandoning the things which are permanently forbidden. Similarly,
refrain from cigarette, betel, chewing tobacco and all other narcotics which snatch
the true happiness of life. Lie, backbiting, deceit, fraud, envy and bribe are the bad
habits that take away all the rewards of fasting. Ramadan provides a best
opportunity for dispelling all such bad habits.
3. If players cash a chance in a match, they will definitely win the game. Same is the
case with Ramadan. It is a chance for man against the devil and evil forces. The
players of the life should cash this chance properly.
The doors of paradise are opened as soon as the moon of Ramadan is sighted and
the doors of hills are closed along with prisoning the indocile devils. That is why,
people are attracted towards goodness easily. Worshipers fill up with the mosques.
“Bodily desire” trained of eleven months still continues its bad intentions.
However, it cannot attack man with the strong force as it does outside Ramadan.
The struggle against self (Nafs) for the whole days makes it weak and as a result
our soul becomes stronger and stronger. Days are spent without lies, backbiting
and bad intentions. The spirit of bearing hunger and thirst increases the patience.
This is how apparent and internal purification goes on in Ramadan.
The meaning of “Saom” is to “refrain from”, such as abstaining from everything
which is desired by self. A person who fasts avoids food and other permissible
things from dawn till dusk for the purpose of purifying his/her soul. The grand aim
of observing fast is to forbear all evil deeds and bad habits which are disliked by
God and his messenger. This must be done with the belief that Allah is watching
all this. One should have the faith that I am being watched by God. One who
observes fast with divine love, fear of God and obedience of prophet is provided
with the following good news by the creator.
“Fasting is for me, and I will give the reward for it.”

It is a covert worship and that is why it holds such a great reward. It cannot be
observed like other worships. It is far away from affectation and insincerity. It is
performed with faith and sincerity and its level of perfection and excellence
depends upon the one who keeps it. Fasting is complete gratuity and benedictions.
The hunger and thirst of whole day suffer body a lot which is too heavy for self
(Nafs). It causes self to become weak resulting in strengthening of soul. Soul
develops and improves as the self goes down. A certain smell of stomach due to
hunger and thirst is felt from the mouth but this smell of the person who observes
fast is liked by God. Therefore, Prophet Muhammad said:

“The smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of
Allah than the smell of musk.”
And then as the time of breaking the fast comes closer, God’s spiritual and internal
love and preference for man increases. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says:
 “There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his
fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased
because of his fasting.”

Worthy person who keeps fast:

It does not mean in any way that we should not clean our mouths. Our Prophet (PBUH)
has declared cleanliness as half the faith. The prayers on ablution (Wazzu) with tooth
brush (Miswak) are ranked 27 times better than without tooth brush. Companion of
Prophet Muhammad say that he used to brush in Ramadan excessively.

It has been narrated in Bukhari that make the Miswak (tooth brush) obligatory for
yourself for it has cleanliness of mouth and propitiate of God. The bad smell spreads
from mouth due to vapors and unnecessary gases produced after sleep and fasting. It
teases the addressee in conversation. It also troubles angels and worshipers in the
Mosque. Therefore, always brush your mouth after breaking the fast. It a sin to enter
mosque without cleaning mouth after eating stinking items such as garlic, cigarette, betel
and chewing gum because it hurt others. According to the saying of prophet Muhammad
(PBUH):

So perform good ablution, wear clean clothes and use fragrance before joining prayers in
mosque. It will bring you more spiritual freshness and consequently nobody will get hurt.
Reciting Holy Quran: Holy Quran has declared Ramadan as the month of Quran. It is
the divine talk which is read and written. Quran is better than all other divine books that
is why it was revealed upon the chief of the prophets who carried the grandeur of divine
talk and presented it to his Ummah with elegance.

Quran is the most read book in the world. In fact reading this book gives pleasure and
reward even if one does not understand it. The person who recites it with understanding
and act accordingly wins the closeness of God and becomes successful in hereafter. Allah
has declared the protection of such person. This is why memorizers of this holy book
(Hafiz e Quran) always existed in the world. This book is source of guidance and a
complete code of life. God provides his closeness to man through Quran and the prophet
(PBUH).

Those who respect and love their prophet and give attention to Quran are blessed with the
companionship and guidance of Allah. They live this life with honor and grace. Similarly,
they are worthy of earning the acquiescence of Allah and prophet in hereafter.

Ummah as a whole is heedless of teachings and guidance of Quran in a true sense.

Materialism has dominated the world. It is difficult for people to manage time for
understanding few verses of this holy book. Worldly knowledge is very much important
for getting a respectable means of earning and a smooth flow of life. Religion encourages
it along with insisting religious knowledge. It keeps the knowledge of Quran and Hadith
(sayings of prophet) above the worldly knowledge so that they may correlate. It enables
us to spend life with high moral values and obeying God. It also brings the pleasure of
God and his prophet (PBUH). Similarly, it also gives the happiness of creator and
creatures, thus the journey of life is completed.

Start Ramadan with at least reciting a “Ruku” (paragraph) from the holy Quran with
translation, understand it and make it your aim to act accordingly. Along with this try to
recite Quran excessively so that you may be able to complete the whole Quran in
Ramadan. Induce your children, wife and fellows to do this because the cure of both
bodily and spiritual diseases lies in the recitation of holy Quran. Those who use this dose
daily will be successful in this life and in hereafter.

NOTE: Some Quranic translations have ascribed unsuitable sentences to Allah, prophet
and other sacred personalities which reflect the mindset of translators. It has been tried to
lessen the importance of “khatam-e-Nubuwaat” (finality of prophet hood) and respect of
prophet which are essential in religion. The teachings and guidance of holy Quran widely
accepted, preached and taught by majority of scholars have been molded for the sake of
misleading the young generation. They are scared by the fear of verdicts of novelty,
polytheism and wickedness. Thus they are dragged towards sectarianism and extremism.
The verses of Quran related to war (Jehad) are presented out of context according to their
own mind and interpretation in order to use the youth for riot and horror.

The youth is requested to ponder about their new interpretation which did not exist
before. In such circumstances we are bound of following companions of Prophet and
other sacred personalities of the past. It has been told that:

“The path of those whom you have favored.”

Follow the way of the major group of Muslims and one who kept apart from the group
will go to hell. Prophet Muhammad said:

“Indeed Allah will not gather my Ummah " - or he said: "[Muhammad's] Ummah upon
deviation, and Allah's Hand is over the Jama'ah, and whoever deviates, he deviates to the
Fire.”

In a second narration Hazrat Anas bin Malik narrates that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
said:
“My nation will not unite on misguidance, so if you see them differing, follow the great
majority.”

So, in order to avoid the incitement and protect our faith and Islam we must act according
to the guidance of holy prophet. Do not join any group or party which disrespects the
sacred personalities of past and their way in any form. The dishonor may be in the form
of speech or written material and it may come from a religious leader or scholar. Try to
part ways with such people because we are supposed to follow no one, except prophet
Muhammad (PBUH). We have read the vocable of Allah and his prophet. Allah like other
obligations has commanded us to respect and honor the holy prophet.

“So that O People you may believe in Allah and His Messenger and pay respect to him
and honor him”

Allah has made it obligatory for us to respect and honor Prophet Muhammad at every
moment of life. He has also made it clear that you will lose all your good deeds in case of
any dishonor or insolence. Therefore, Allah said:

“O believers! Raise not your voices above the voice of the Communicator of unseen (the
Prophet) and speak not aloud in presence of him as you shout to one another, lest your
works become vain while you are unaware.”
It is an established fact that the pictures of prayers lacking respect and honor for prophet
Muhammad (PBUH) are like flowers of paper which are usually made very artistically
but do not have fragrance nor can its fruit be eaten. Same is the case of worships like
prayer, fasting, Charity or alms-giving (Zakat) and pilgrimage. They are not accepted in
the court of Allah if the performer lacks love and respect for Prophet Muhammad. Such
worship is a body without soul. The love of Muhammad is the soul of prayers. We should
take care of the faith of our wife and children as we take care of their lives because life
must end one day but losing faith can bring destruction both to this world and the
hereafter.

In the end I would like to quote a saying of my mentor Allama Pir Alauddin Saddiqui,
who has clearly stated this fact in few lines.

“Piety, knowledge of book, education, teaching, prostration (Sajda), genuflection

(Rukuu), mass meetings, speeches, advice, string of beads and prayer rug all are indeed
items of devotion but if these things lack the luminescence of honor and love for Prophet
Muhammad then they all are deception and fraud.”

Read, understand and act according to Quranic guidance from today. Make arrangements
for your family to learn and understand Quran with orthoepy. This will bring blessings of
God to you and it will work as absolution for you in life after death.

Chastity according to literati and religious scholars is, reading Quran with deep thinking
and understand. Similarly, praying at night and bearing hunger and thirst are true deeds of
good. It purifies the soul of man. We should start the above stated routine in Ramadan
continuing it to the next Ramadan.

Tarawih Prayers (Night prayers in Ramadan):

The season of goodness and virtues starts with Ramadan everywhere. Fast is observed
with praying five times a day. On the other hand people have desire for reciting holy
Quran and sending blessings on prophet. But Tarawih prayer has its own mirth and
satisfaction. This is the most holy divine worship in Ramadan. Prophet offered this prayer
at his home except two or three times, because of the fear that it may not be made
obligatory for Muslims. Prophet advised his fellows to offer it at their homes. Tarawih is
the favorite prayer of Prophet. The first four caliphs made arrangement to offer this
prayer in large gatherings at mosque. Prophet Muhammad said:
“Whoever among you sees that, then he must stick to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the
rightly guided caliphs (Khulafa)', cling to it with the molars”.

Prophet Muhammad also explained the benefits of Ramadan in these words.

Narrated Abu Huraira: “whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and
hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven.”

Narrated Aisha the mother of the faithful believers: “One night Allah's Messenger (‫)ﷺ‬
offered the prayer in the Mosque and the people followed him. The next night he also
offered the prayer and too many people gathered. On the third and the fourth nights more
people gathered, but Allah's Messenger (‫ )ﷺ‬did not come out to them. In the morning he
said, "I saw what you were doing and nothing but the fear that it (i.e. the prayer) might be
enjoined on you, stopped me from coming to you." And that happened in the month of
Ramadan”.
Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbas (R.A.) narrates that:

“Prophet (PBUH) used to pray twenty ‘Rakat’ of Tarawih beside Witr.”

“When Allah's Messenger (‫ )ﷺ‬died, this was the practice, and it continued thus during
Abu Bakr's caliphate and the early part of 'Umar's caliphate.”

Abd ar-Rahman ibn Abd al-Qari said, "I went out with Umar ibn alKhattab in Ramadan
to the mosque and the people there were spread out in groups. Some men were praying
by themselves, whilst others were praying in small groups. Umar said,

'By Allah! It would be better in my opinion if these people gathered behind one reciter.'

So he gathered them behind Ubayy ibn Kab. Then I went out with him another night and
the people were praying behind their Qur'an reciter. Umar said,
'How excellent this new way is.”

And this is how the recitation of Quran in twenty “Rakat” Tarawih behind one Imam
(leader) started for the first time.

Hazrat Yazid bin Romman narrated that:

"The people used to watch the night in prayer during Ramadan for twenty- three rakas in
the time of Umar ibn al-Khattab."

Imam Abu Eisa Tarmidhi in his book Sanan-e-Tarmidhi says that “Majority of scholars
believe in twenty “rakas” of Tarawih prayer which is narrated by Hazrat Ali (R.A),
Hazrat Umar (R.A) and other fellows of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This is also the
doctrine of Sufyan Soori, Abdullah ibn Mubarak and Imam Shafi. Imam Shafi said:

\
During the last fifteen centuries many things changed in Holy Kaaba but offering twenty
“rakat” of Tarawih has not changed. The followers of all the four Imams of Islam are
praying twenty “rakat” of Tarawih in almost every corner of the Islamic world.

Our age has a religious downfall. Religious beliefs are weakening day by day. There has
been a growing trend of abandoning the practices and ways of prophet Muhammad
(PBUH). And it led to decrease in importance of ways/practices of prophet. It is a
dangerous collusion of lessening the value of practices of prophet. The “Sunnat” prayer
(prayed by prophet) which accompanies the five times obligatory prayers, are uncommon
now. They are given up by saying that they are not “Faraz” (obligatory).

Twenty “Rakats” of Tarawih were prayed by the whole Muslim Ummah till 1290 A.H.
Almost 132 years ago a Muslim scholar gave the verdict of eight “rakat” of Tarawih. All
the religious learned men at that time wrote books against his verdict.

The supporters of eight “rakat” of Tarawih argues weakly through these words of Hazrat
Aiysha (R.A.)

“The Messenger of Allah (‫ )ﷺ‬did not observe either in Ramadan or in other months more
than eleven rak'ahs (of the night prayer).”

They make an unsuccessful try of proving eight Tarawih and three “Witr” from these
words. If you look at these lines carefully, there is no possibility of proving eight Tarawih
from here because Hazrat Aiysha (R.A.) is talking about a prayer which was offered both
during and outside Ramadan. Tarawih Prayer is prayed only during Ramadan. Tarawih
has not been mentioned here, rather it is “Namaz-e-Tahajud” (Night Prayer) which was
obligatory for Prophet Muhammad. He used to pray eight “rakat” of night prayer and
three “Witr” always.
Imam Bukhari (author of Sahih alBukhari) also discussed the same in chapter “Qiyam Un
Nabi Fe Ramadan”. He stated clearly that the prayer mentioned here refers to eight
“rakats” of night prayer. It is noteworthy that this narration was in the knowledge of
fellows of prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but they did not present it against Hazrat Umar
(R.A.) or any of other caliph who arranged twenty “rakat” of Tarawih prayer. It never
happened.

Despite the fact that twenty “rakat” of Tarawih were prayed by the companions of
prophet and the whole Ummah, a small group parted their ways for eight “rakat” of
Tarawih about hundred and fifty years ago. Fact of the matter is they did not even come
up with the weak narration of eight “rakat” of Tarawih. It is very much necessary to
avoid every belief which is different from the majority and widely accepted view of Islam
and religious scholars. We are advised to follow the foot prints of ancestors.

“And whoso opposes the Messenger after the right way has become clear and follows a
way other than the way of Muslims, We shall leave him on his own conditions and shall
cause him to enter Hell; and what is an evil place of returning.”

Hazrat Abu Huraira (R.A.) narrates that Prophet Muhammad said:

“There is reward of martyrdom for the one who followed my ways strictly in the state of
turmoil in my Ummah.”
“He who does not follow my tradition in religion, is not from me (not one of my
followers).”

It is evident from the sayings of prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that true faith is following
him and his ways. Loving the practices of prophet is the name of faith and anything other
than this is aberration. So, common Muslims should not be a prey to conspiracies. They
should not be lazy. They should not give up “Sunnat” of their prophet. Prophet
Muhammad has announced good news of paradise for the one who prays 12 “rakat” in a
day-night period.

“Coolness of my eyes was made in the prayer”.

Supererogation and “Sunnat” prayers let you go close to God and gain his love. Cash this
opportunity of Ramadan. Pray “Nafal” (voluntary prayers which are not compulsory).
You can add “Prayer of Wazu”, “Prayer of Mosque” “Awwabeen” and “Tahajjud” to
your habits in Ramadan because you wake up early in the dawn for breakfast.

Sheikh Ul aalam once said:

“If you wake up early in the dawn and pray at least two “Rakat” of Tahajjud, your name
will be added to the list of those who pray “Tahajjud”.”
“The lord of earth and sky is pure. Pure is God who has honor and greatness, who has
power and influence, who has reverence and veneration. Pure is the God who is alive, He
never dies nor does he sleep. He is pure and holy. He is our creator and the creator of
angels and ROOH. O God! Save us from hell. O savior! O savior! O savior!”

The following prayer should be read while starting a fast.

“I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan.”

Obligatory Aspect:
Ramadan was prescribed in the 2nd year of Hijra. Fasting means to abstain "completely"
from foods, drinks, intimate intercourse and smoking, before the break of the dawn till
sunset with the intention of rewards. Apparently this month seems just like the rest of the
months but it has no match in the whole year with respect to holiness, rewards and value.
Although the day and night timings remain the same like other months but it has much
importance religiously. Things which are forbidden during day time are permissible in
the night till dawn. Tarawih prayer which is termed as “Qiyaam” can be offered till dawn.
Every night is composed of three parts. The last part is of high value. Special
announcements of blessings and closeness are made in the last part of the night. Persons
who observe fast pray to God and spend their time in asking forgiveness and blessings
from Allah. They succeed in earning the will of God. They wake up for pre-dawn meal.
They remain busy in eating and drinking in order to prepare for keeping fast the whole
day. Waking up and eating something as pre-dawn meal is “Sunnat” (way of prophet).
The houses of such people seems as bright as stars to angels from sky. This is very
interesting time. We should make a permanent habit of waking up this time.
In UK the conditions remain immoderate from 15th May to 30th July during night.
The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon that occurs during summer. One can
experience sunlight even at 11 p.m., 12 p.m., 1 a.m. or 2 a.m. in the night. Therefore,
almost fifty years ago, religious scholars developed a calendar. This calendar is
developed while keeping in view the nearby timings carefully. The purpose of developing
this calendar is to make sure that Muslims pray their obligatory prayers and observe fast
with proper correct timings. According to fifty years old calendar “ISHA” time begins
after one and a half hour of sunset and fast begins one and a half hour before the sun rise.
According to “‫( الدین یسر‬Religion is simple)” it is easy and therefore, all mosques of UK
are following this calendar. Few problems and differences have being created during last
few years however, no one has yet said that observing fast except these timings is not
acceptable. Even after several attempts of few Islamic Casuist to change the routine,
majority of the mosques, TV channels, radios in UK follow the fifty years old calendar
timings. Even if Fast begins with three or quarter to 3’o clock, it reaches to a duration of
more than nine hours. All renowned, wise and pre-eminent religious scholars follow this
time table. Therefore, majority of Muslims still follow this calendar.

Note: To start fast from 1 a.m. or 2 a.m. is not an issue, the problem is related to sleeping.

Some of our brothers try to go out of this fifty years old system. I seek Refuge with
Allah, they even give up praying the prayer of “Isha” (night). However, there is only two
hours gap between Tarawih Prayer and dawn in UK and Europe during these two and a
half months. If you are tired then take rest but wake up for pre-dawn meal so that you
may receive the spiritual and internal blessings. You can observe fast without pre-dawn
meal just by vowing from the night but do wake up for the pre-meal meal and take bodily
meal along with spiritual diet. Our prophet used to take pre-dawn meal regularly during
Ramadan.
Narrated Anas bin Malik:
The Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬said, "Take Suhur as there is a blessing in it."

Brush your mouth as soon as you wake up for “Sahari” (Pre-dawn meal). After reciting
“Kalma” (creed) read “Darood” (send blessing upon the prophet Muhammad). Along
with this read “‫( ”هللا اکبر‬Allah is great) ten times, “‫( ”الحمد هلل‬All praise to Allah) ten times,
“”‫ وهللا اكبر‬,‫ وال اله إال هللا‬,‫ والحمد هلل‬,‫ سبحان هللا‬one time, “‫ ”سبحان الملک القدوس‬three times, but
read the “‫ ”القدوس‬a bit aloud.

After reading “‫( ”اللهم اغفر لی‬O Allah! Forgive us) turn towards “Qibla” (Direction of
Kaaba) and pray two “rakat” of Waddu-prayer. Then read three times “ ‫يم‬ ِ ‫يع ا ْل َع ِل‬ َّ ‫أَعُوذُ بِاهللِ ال‬
ِ ‫س ِم‬
‫يم‬
ِ ‫الر ِج‬ ِ ‫ش ْي َط‬
َّ ‫ان‬ َّ ‫”منَ ال‬
ِ (I seek refuge in Allah the All-Hearing, All-Knowing, from the accursed
Shaytan). After doing this recite the last verses of “Surah Al-hashar” from the holy Quran
and pray to God with the hope of acceptance. The dawn time is highly recommended for
acceptance and acknowledgement of prayers during Ramadan and outside Ramadan
during the whole year. Sins are forgiven at dawn. Our Lord descends to the lowest
heaven in the last third of every night and sends his special blessings to us. A little effort
from man’s side can result in the God’s favor and protection. So, we should take benefit
of this opportunity. Ask forgiveness for your sins. Ask for Allah’s love and pleasure.
Pray for yourself and whole Ummah. Ask for the mediation of Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH).

According to religious scholars begging and praying to Allah during dawn is very
fruitful. It helps the Muslim to gain the pleasure of Allah. It also disciplines the heart of
Muslim.
My mentor “Shiekh Ul aalam” also use to say:
“Dawn is the time of earning. The lovers of Allah and prophet fill their sacks at dawn and
distribute it in visitors and disciples for the rest of the day.”

Try not to sleep after Tarawih prayer if possible, and keep yourself busy in reciting holy
Quran and offering other prayers. It is a little time, we should utilize it in praying eight
“rakat” of Tahajud, which prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to pray always. A small
group has abandoned praying the twenty “rakat” of Sunnat Tarawih prayer pretending
that Tahajjud prayer is the Tarawih prayer. Thus they have deprived themselves from a
grand blessing and they also try to deprive other common people from this blessing as
well.
Spend time in pursuit of Allah’s pleasure:
The Muslims who wish to earn pleasure of Allah, have too much in a day for apparent
and spiritual purity. Meeting Prophet Muhammad is the ascension of a Muslim. It is the
biggest wish of a Muslim. It is the guarantee of success both in world and in hereafter.
Pray for the mediation of Prophet Muhammad in the hereafter. Spend some time for
earning this opportunity after Tarawih. I am writing the verified words suggested by my
mentor to me. If one takes care of all the norms and recite it with full attention regularly,
he will be blessed with the glimpse of prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Insha Allah!

It should also be remembered that seeking the glimpse of prophet is a blessing in itself.
What else can be better than praying to Allah for a look of holy prophet? Such prayers
step towards acceptance gradually. Have faith! Your prayer will be accepted and
answered one day in life and you will get successful both here in the world and in the
world after death. Insha Allah!

“Say you, He is Allah, the one. Allah the Independent, Care free. He begot none' nor
was He begotten. And nor anyone is equal to Him.”

Make fresh ablutions, apply fragrance and go to a lonely and peaceful place. Imagine
Holy Kaaba and recite “Surah Ikhlas”. Then imagining yourself present in the court of
prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recite this “Darood” one hundred times out of extreme
love and huge respect.

Imagine that Prophet himself is watching you and he is also listening to you. If you
lose your concentration in the middle, recite ‫ امنت باهلل و رسوله‬three times and return
back to that spiritual imagination while continuing the “Darood”. One day you will
meet your aim Insha Allah.
 Following are the words by my mentor and guide who received it from the court of
prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Include it in your prayers. Insha Allah this will bring
you better results.

Pre-dawn meal is the start of observing a fast. It is the best time for gaining spiritual
blessings and energy for physical power. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) insisted that
do not miss pre-dawn meal even if it is a sip of water. Taking meal in the late hours of
dawn was the routine practice of prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It is also a Sunnah.

Those who take pre-dawn meals too early miss this Sunnah because late pre-dawn
meal and early “Aftar” (opening/breaking the fast) was the routine of Prophet
Muhammad for his whole life.

Narrated Sahl bin Saad: Allah's Messenger (‫ )ﷺ‬said, "The people will remain on the right
path as long as they hasten the breaking of the fast."

“Niyat” is the intention of heart to do something. It is more commendable if uttered

through mouth. One can say in mother tongue such as Urdu, Hindko or English etc.
Following are the words in Arabic.
“I intend to observe obligatory fast tomorrow in the month of Ramadan this year because
of Allah.”

The spiritual environment of Ramadan starts with “Ashara e Rahmat”. (First ten days of
Ramadan are the days of Mercy and blessing). During Ramadan man is safe from many
mischiefs and paranoids which are usually created by the powerful enemy, Satan. But
there is an enemy too dangerous than Satan and it is “Nafs e Ammaara”, the self of man.
“Nafs e Ammara” continues its activities but luckily Allah has provided a training course
in the form of annual Ramadan for combating it.
Many people who are usually influenced and circled by Satan in normal days incline
towards purity and they spend their time in praying to Allah while repenting on their past
deeds. Those who did not pray before, offer prayers in Ramadan. Mosques are filled up
with those people who do not usually attend mosques. They live a life of negligence
before Ramadan but they strive for earning the pleasure of their creator in Ramadan. And
so they stand against their “Nafs e Ammara” or self. They are determined to struggle
against the evil wishes and desires of self and thus they succeed in getting back to their
creator, Allah.
Those who struggle against their own self always succeed in life. They do not lose any
opportunity to triumph in life’s game. They always wish the pleasure of Allah and
glimpse of holy prophet. They bear everything in this journey. Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH) has termed it “Jihad e Akbar” (The Great Struggle) and said “‫صو ُمو ت ُ ِصحو‬ ُ ”
“observe fast and you will find good heath”.
Holy Quran also has good news of bodily and spiritual health for those who observe fast.
Medical research has proved that observing fast leads to excretion of waste products from
the body. It also benefits the digestive system. A large number of small diseases are cured
automatically and life gets a new color. But the real color comes to spiritual life. The
guest from the court of Allah (Ramadan) comes every year for our purification and carry
us closer to Allah and his prophet. Ramadan has the following purposes.

 To purify us
 To help us in controlling the desires of “Nafs” self and organs
 To keep us hungry and thirsty for few hours in order to feel the situation of poor.
 It has been declared as “month of virtue/welfare”. The rich are also forbidden from
eating during the day so that the poor may be encouraged whose children do not
have access to meal twice a day.
  Permissible things are also forbidden for a certain period of time in order to
strengthen the sense of patience which will work as a dose for the life outside
Ramadan.

Permissible actions are prohibited for some time. The person who observes fast
refrains from doing it even in solitude because Allah is watching him. This exercise is
practiced for the whole month so that he may protect himself from evil actions for the
rest of his life. For instance bribe, fraud, lies, backbiting and other immoral acts, evil
deeds and forbidden things.

It was narrated from Abu Hurairah that the Messenger of Allah (‫ )ﷺ‬said:
“There are people who fast and get nothing from their fast except hunger, and there are
those who pray and get nothing from their prayer but a sleepless night.”

Muhadditheen (That scholars who have enough knowledge of both wordings as well as
the meanings of Hadith) explain that Fast is a shield which protects its observer from
evils and wrong doings because such deeds reduce his rewards.
It is also shield in a sense that man protects himself from the desires of “Nafs” (self)
through it, and similarly it will work as a shield against the fire of hell on the day of
judgement.
We should examine ourselves at the time of opening/breaking every fast (Aftar). Do we
observe fast in a true sense? Do we take care of all the things in fast? Can it work for us
as a shield? Can it lift us up to the position where the mouth smell of “Faster” (one who
observes fast) is better than the fragrance of musk? We must try our best to observe fast
with all our organs in a true sense. We should pray humbly at the time of “Aftar” to
Allah. “O Allah! My deed is not capable of earning your pleasure. I ask for your
blessings and forgiveness.”
Break/open the fast as soon as the sun sets. There is no need of waiting for siren or Azaan
(Call for prayer). Observe the time table. Open fast with dates or a sip of water (if date is
not available) and then read this prayer.
“O Allah, I have fasted for you and in you I believed and with your provision do I break
my fast”.

You have started your daily routine in the month of Ramadan so first have a look at the
routine of prophet Muhammad (PBUH). If you start sending blessings upon Prophet
Muhammad (saying “Darood”) and imagine deeply the environment of Madinah as
explained and stated in the sayings/narrations of prophet, you will find Muhammad
(PBUH) praying along with his followers.
When the Holy Prophet would see the new moon of Ramadan, he would say the
following:

Narrated Qatadah:
When the Prophet of Allah (‫ )ﷺ‬saw the new moon, he said: "a new moon of good and
right guidance; a new moon of good and right guidance; a new moon of good and right
guidance. I believe in Him who created you" three times. He would then say: "Praise be
to Allah Who has made such and such a month to pass and has brought such and such a
month."
The prayers and offerings of Prophet Muhammad would increase in Ramadan as compare
to normal routine. The love and humility of prophet would increase in Ramadan. He
would remain busy in praying Tarawih, Tahajjud and offering prayers.

According to a narration of both Bukhari and Muslim, Hazrat Jabrail (A.S.) would come
to see prophet Muhammad (PBUH) every night in Ramadan for reciting Holy Quran.
Both would recite Quran to each other. This practice continued till Muhammad (PBUH)
passed away. He continued this practice of reciting Quran for his whole life. Allah, the
almighty says:
“The month of Ramadan in which Quran was sent down”

Ramadan and Quran have a deep relationship. On the day of judgement both (Quran and
Ramadan) will intercede for those who respected and valued them and their mediation
will be accepted. So include a calculated portion of holy Quran in your daily routine in
order to complete one whole Quran in the month of Ramadan. One gets close to Allah
when he/she reads Quran with understanding and acts according to it. It results in
absolution of man.
Lucky people are those who ask for the special blessings of Allah during “Ashra e
Rahmat” (first ten days of Ramadan are Mercy). We can get blessings and mercy only
with the help of Allah. We depend on Allah for gratuity. Therefore, say the following
prayers.

The second Ashra (ten days) of Ramadan are days of forgiveness. It is call from the court
of Allah that all the sins being committed by man can be remitted if the person repents
and ask forgiveness with the intention of not repeating it in future. All the sins will be
remitted and replaced with blessings. Moreover, all such men will be blessed with purity
and chastity and included in favorite men. As Iqbal said:

Allah, the almighty says:

“No doubt, Allah likes the constant repentance and likes cleansers.”
“‫ ”توبه‬is a gerund from “‫ ”تاب یتوب توبت‬in Arabic language and grammar which means
“coming again” or “returning back”. So giving up sins, turning back to Allah,
determination to obey Allah and refraining from disobedience is known as “Toba”. Time
and again Quran turns our attention towards “Toba”. Even it is advised that:

“'O believers! Turn towards Allah in such a way that it may become an admonition for
future.”
Repenting of all previous sins, apologizing for the evil deeds, and begging Allah to earn
his pleasure is termed as “Astaghfar” (To seek Allah's forgiveness).

It is clear that it is impossible for everyone to go and remain at Madinah always. The
religious scholars while explaining this verse said that Prophet Muhammad is blessing for
the whole world. He is a big means of forgiveness for all the sinner in the court of Allah.
Wherever you are, Madinah is far away from you but the favor of Prophet is not far away
from you.

“This prophet is the owner of the Muslims even more than their own selves”
(Surah Al-Ahzab verse 6)

Pray two “rakat” of “Salat e Tawba” (prayer of repentance), imagine your death near to
you, and ask forgiveness from Allah repeatedly with humility and dignity. Do “Sajda”
(lying stretched out on the ground) if possible and say these words in “Sajda”.

Repeat it many times and then ask forgiveness from Allah. Also include the following
prayer in it.

Ask closeness, pleasure and blessing of Allah.

Have faith that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is aware of my situation with the power
bestowed upon him by Allah and has asked remission of sins for me (as stated in “ ‫واستغفر‬
‫ )”لهم الرسول‬which has resulted in my forgiveness. Give some charity if possible and
continue this routine on daily basis.

Despite the fact that our holy prophet was impeccable, he used to ask forgiveness seventy
times a day. He did this solely as an example for his Ummah because he was pure and
free of sins. Even his followers and those who get a spiritual or internal connection with
him are purified and protected from sins. Therefore, his purpose of asking forgiveness
was to go up higher. It also indicates a sense of thankfulness from the Holy Prophet to
Allah, the creator of all.
There is a huge difference between the “Astaghfar” of prophet and a common person.
Considering prophet as similar to us is a big sin and an evil thought. Allah forgives the
sinner because of his sake. Start reading this prayer with abeyance and submission 100
times daily.

Time and again repeat these words.

Make a habit of saying it three times after each obligatory “Faraz” prayer because
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has announced good news for those who say these words
after obligatory prayers, his/her sins will be obliterated even if they are equal to the extent
of the foam of the ocean. And he who recites “Ayat ul Kursi”, the distance between
heaven and him is just the death. Similarly, do not forget to say these words before
ending a gathering.

After ablutions (Wazu) recite these words.

Prophet has announced good news related to these words. Sins of all organs are remitted
and all eight doors of heaven welcome such person.

In short, repentance and asking forgiveness should be our habit. Start this beautiful
activity in the second phase (Ashra-e-Maghfirat) of Ramadan and continue it for the rest
of the month. Your heart will remain pure and free of impurities. You will be blessed
with spiritual purity. Protecting your apparent bodily organs from sins and similarly
avoiding bad intentions and thoughts will enable you to receive the blessings of Allah
gradually. But perfect purity comes only, when you are lucky enough to get the
company, spiritual attention and tuition of a spiritual counselor and guide.

To say “Sayed Ul Astaghfar” (Leading words of forgiveness) is not lesser than a felicity.

If you follow the aforementioned instructions, then surely you are getting closer to fulfill
the conditions of complete forgiveness. However, there is one condition remaining. It is
about any negligence or carelessness in the obedience of Allah or any misconduct or ill
treatment with his creation. For instance robbery, fraud etc. The remedy for this is to
compensate the loss with the determination of not repeating this in future. If you have
lapses in obligations, complete it. Offer “Qaza” of prayers and fasts. If “zakat” is due,
pay it. Perform Hajj (Muslims’ pilgrimage to Makkah). Return back the assets of others.
Return any property of others if you have encroached. Ask forgiveness from oppressed.

In short, try your best to compensate all such deeds in every possible way. Allah forgives
his rights but the rights of other people are subject to their own will. Therefore, avoid any
laziness and try every possible manner. At the same time ask forgiveness from Allah as
well, so that he may send his blessings upon you and accept your repentance.
The one who repents from sin is like one who did not sin. May Allah include us in the list
of those people whose remorse is accepted. Include these words in your prayers.

The major aim of observing fast is piety. Observing fast provides the best exercise of
chastening heart and removing each and every impurity from soul. Charity has great
importance in religious life. Islam made a complete system of helping each other. One of
the symbol of pious person is:

“And spend in our path, out of our provided subsistence.”

Pious people distribute and share all divine favors of Allah such as wealth and knowledge
in those who do not have these blessings. Indigence makes life difficult for people and
they cannot contribute too much to the society. Allah has allocated a portion of resources
and wealth for all the needy poor people in the resources and wealth of rich. Allah has
commanded us:

“And give the obligatory charity (Zakat)”.

Zakat is a religious obligation for all Muslims who meet the necessary criteria of wealth
(Nisab). It is compulsory for rich to pay zakat to the deserving people. Finding and
handing them over the Zakat is not a favor with them rather the rich should be thankful to
them for their availability which fulfills their obligation. Zakat is a religious obligation
for all Muslims who meet the necessary criteria of wealth (Nisab). And “Sahib e Nisab”
means the one, who possess certain amount of wealth above and beyond his immediate
needs. Immediate needs include residential house, house hold goods, clothes, servant,
weapon and books (for religious scholars). All those things which are necessary for a
comfortable life or come with a status and time are immediate needs.
Zakat is obligatory on additional funds and wealth other than immediate needs. 2.5
pounds zakat will be paid for 100 pounds. Allah has given us this wealth and Zakat
should be paid from it. Those who avoid paying Zakat due to miserliness or negligence
will face detraction in the world and hereafter. Zakat must be paid completely because
each and every penny will be counted in it. Wealth without paying zakat will be curse
and pest for the owner in the hereafter.

Allah's Apostle said, "Whoever is made wealthy by Allah and does not pay the Zakat of
his wealth, then on the Day of Resurrection his wealth will be made like a bald-headed
poisonous male snake with two black spots over the eyes. The snake will encircle his
neck and bite his cheeks and say, 'I am your wealth, I am your treasure.'" (Bukhari).

Zakat is unpaid if it is given to those who do not deserve it. It is wrong to give zakat to
any institution or organization which disrespects Holy Prophet (PBUH) and does not
follow the path of the previous pious people and religious scholars. If one gives his Zakat
to any such organization, he will be equally responsible for all the misdeeds of killing
people or spreading hatred in the hearts of people because his zakat supports the
organization.
Islam cures the diseases of extreme love for wealth, misery, and cupidity through
“Sadqa” and “Khairat” (charity) and thus an arrangement is made for fulfilling the basic
needs of poor, needy and sick people. This is why Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) has made
“Fitarana” obligatory even for his servants. Zakat al-Fitr is charity given to the poor at the
end of the fasting in the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Narrated Abdullah ibn Abbas:

The Messenger of Allah (‫ )ﷺ‬prescribed the sadaqah (alms) relating to the breaking of the
fast as a purification of the fasting from empty and obscene talk and as food for the poor.
If anyone pays it before the prayer (of 'Id), it will be accepted as zakat. If anyone pays it
after the prayer, that will be a sadaqah like other sadaqahs (alms).

Therefore, any lapse in Ramadan fasting is compensated through this. It is also obligatory
on the “Sahib e Nisab”. There is no condition of one year time. It is compulsory for the
householder to pay it for a baby who is born even on that day.
Rate and Amount of Zakat Al-Fitr:

Wheat and Grapes 2.25 seer

Other grains 4 seer

It is better to give Zakat Al-fitr equal to the current price of these items. Man loves his
wealth but the love of Allah and his prophet is much needed for the relish of faith. One
can have this limitless blessing through charity. Ramadan is the month of compassion and
compathy. The whole Muslim Ummah shows sympathy and love for poor and needy
people. Prophet Muhammad always helped poor and needy. He would fulfill the needs of
people but as compare of common days his charity would increase sharply in the month
of Ramadan. He would fed the hungry and would provide clothes to the needy. The
Muslim Ummah usually increase its charity during Ramadan because Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH) persuaded them to earn more blessing. He said:

"Whoever provides the food for a fasting person to break his fast with, then for him is the
same reward as his (the fasting person's), without anything being diminished from the
reward of the fasting person."

It was asked that every one of us cannot afford to provide food for a fasting person.
Prophet replied:

“Allah gives this rewards to one who provides a date or water or a sip of milk to the
person fasting”

Moreover, he said:
“Whosoever lightens the burden of his servant (in Ramadan), Allah will forgive his sins
and preserve him from Hellfire.

We ought to spend in the way of Allah during Ramadan to seek his love and blessing,
help others with the spirit of compassion and compathy and make the environment of our
homes peaceful and friendly.

Third Phase (Third “Ashra”):

Third Ashra is known as Safety from the Hell, it means Nijat. Those who fast with
blessings and forgiveness in the previous two phases (stages) of Ramadan enter this third
phase with good news of safety from the hell. Their inner sense tells them that they are
safe from hell. Allah provides them the opportunity to say:

In these last days of Ramadan pray for your parents, friends, family and whole Muslim
Ummah. Ask their safety from the hell. Allah himself provides this opportunity to the
Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In fact, it is an opportunity given by Allah to us
for blessings and forgiveness.

The last Ashra (stage) of Ramadan demands the excess of prayers.

And

Pursuit of Shab-e-Qadar (the Night of Power):

“Laylat-Ul-Qadar lies in the odd nights of this Ashra (ten days). This is bestowed upon
Prophet Muhamad (PBUH) to allay the lesser ages and deeds of the Ummah as compare
to other Ummah. Quran start to reveal in “Shab-e-Qadar”. This night is better than
thousand months because Allah revealed Holy book of Quran on Holy Prophet in this
Holy night. Now whoever prays in this night with faith and sense of reward, his previous
sins are forgiven.

During this night Jibrail (A.S.) and a number of other angels descend and join the
gathering of prayers of Ummah and pray for them. The spiritual scene starts with the
sunset in the evening.

Hazrat Aiysha (R.A.) narrates that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Look for (seek) Lailat-Ul-Qadar in the last ten (odd) nights of Ramadan.” According to
another narration “seek it in the last seven odd nights of Ramadan”.

It is not disclosed according to some divine scheme. It is a night among 21st, 23rd, 25th,
27th and 29th Ramadan. It is kept secret so that Muslims may pray at least five full nights
in Ramadan for earning the blessings of Allah. However, according to majority of
religious scholars 27th is the “Lailat-Ul-Qadar”.

Aishah narrated:
“I said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, what is your view if I know when the Night of Al-Qadr
is, then what should I say in it?” He said: ‘Say: “O Allah, indeed You are Pardoning,
[Generous,] You love pardon, so pardon me (Allāhumma innaka `Afuwwun
[Karīmun], tuḥibbul-`afwa fa`fu `annī).’”

ITIKAF:
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to sit for Itikaf regularly when he was informed to
seek “Lailat-Ul-Qadar” in the last ten days of Ramadan.

“A'isha (Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Messenger of Allah (may peace he
upon him) used to observe i'tikif in the last ten days of Ramadan till Allah called him
back (to his heavenly home). Then his wives observed i'tikaf after him.”

Word “‫ ”اعتکاف‬is derived from “‫ ”عکوف‬which means to obligate oneself. To stop and
control. From religious point of view it is an Islamic practice consisting of a period of
staying in a mosque for a certain number of days, devoting oneself to worship during
these days and staying away from worldly affairs. It is an old, unique and liked worship
of Allah. It is disconnection from people and worldly affairs for a period of time and
setting lonely for getting close to Allah. Mosque is the favorite place of Allah. Itikaf is
Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad. An aim of Itikaf in Ramadan is to find Shab-e-Qadar. It
is a sit-in in the court of Allah for his blessings. Prophet Muhammad said:

It was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbas that:

The Messenger of Allah (‫ )ﷺ‬said concerning the person observing I’tikaf. “He is
refraining from sin and he will be given a reward like that of one who does all kinds of
good deeds.”

(Imam Zain-Ul-Abedeen) Hazrat Ali bin Hussain says his father Hazrat Imam Hussain
(A.S) narrates from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):

“To perform I'tikaf of the last ten days of Ramadan is equivalent to the reward of
two Hajj and two Umrah.”

Poor people should not think that rich can go and offer Hajj (pilgrimage) while we cannot
go. Islam teaches that if you enter into the mosque of your own street and sit for Itikaf in
Ramadan, you will be rewarded equivalent to the reward of two Hajj and Two Umrah. A
huge reward is blessed without journey, expenditure and tiring struggle. It is obvious that
such a highly rewardable Itikaf must have some conditions, terms and protocols. Islamic
law has few rules and regulations for it.

Before all, “Mutakif” (who sits for Itikaf) makes a commitment with Allah that I am
sitting in your house for your pleasure. A “Mutakif” will get nothing in reward if he
forgets his aim during stay and waste his time in useless talks, do not take care of
cleanliness or the etiquettes in the mosque, do not have a desire for Shab-e-Qadar and do
not observe the manners of Itikaf. Such carelessness can bring him curse and trouble. It is
permissible to fulfill necessary needs during Itikaf because one cannot live without it.
Attending washroom, taking bath (if necessary) are allowed in Itikaf. However, one
cannot wash himself regularly for the sole purpose of fighting the heat or refreshment.
There is no harm in taking bath after every two or three days for the purpose of
cleanliness. Itikaf will break if Mutakif goes out of mosque for smoking. Smoking during
Itikaf will reduce his reward even if he smokes in washroom. It would be better to avoid
all such bad habits in Itikaf.

To set inside a tent in mosque is the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad. It is a practice for
the lonely house of grave. It also provides a pacific spiritual environment for prayers and
remain busy in praising Allah. Gossips, meeting, using cell phones, listening news and
various analysis and reports during Itikaf will ruin the reward of Itikaf. There is no
benefit of setting in the mosque away from family.

According to a narration (from Prophet) worldly meeting and chats in mosque increases
the tyranny and darkness of grave. Such habits result in losing the blessing of Allah.

Recite Quran with translation, study other religious books, and say “Tasbeeh” and other
prayers daily. Similarly, send blessings upon prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Try to give
away all bad habits. Itikaf provides opportunity for its practice. Offer “Nafal” (not
obligatory) prayers other than obligatory prayers. In addition to that offer “Nafal” prayers
of “Awwabeen” “Tahajjud” “Tahiyat Ul Masjid, Tahiyat Ul Wadu” “Ishraq” and
“Chasht” regularly. It brings you blessings and pleasure of Allah. This practice should
continue till the next Ramadan.

On one hand Ramadan is the month for getting blessings and mercy of Allah. On the
other hand it is a test of Muslims’ beliefs and training because all the activities of this
month encompass the keys for success of humanity.
Extremism is an external provocation:
It is an age of commotion. Tumults are appearing like drops of rain. Self-made beliefs
and thoughts are presented as Islam. There is a struggle for changing the beliefs and
narratives which existed here for centuries. The plain and clear doctrines which have their
roots in Holy Quran and in sayings of Prophet, preached and practiced by Muslim
scholars and common people for centuries, are victimized according to planned toil.
Small sections from Quranic verses are presented and molded according to personal
needs. Holy verses of Quran are interpreted according to personal views, thus dragging
the youth towards extremism.

The youth is thought wrongly that the whole Ummah is following mistaken path and it is
your duty to go out for Jihad (war) against them. This perilous thought is propagated by
Satanic organizations and wicked institutions for the purpose of misleading the Muslim
Ummah and creating anarchy in believers. They want Muslims to start fighting against
each other. You know that for the last one hundred and fifty years, a persistent struggle
continues to diminish the love and respect of believers for their prophet. Cartoons,
sarcastic phrases and ironic statements on social media are examples of this struggle. This
is a big challenge for all the true believers and followers of prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
It is a huge success to live and die with faith during such times. Persistent struggle and
continuous toil for achieving this huge success is the “Jihad e Akbar”. It is a combat
between right and wrong. It is a fight against Satan and his forces. Real Muslims are
steadfast and follow the way of Prophet Muhammad and his followers. Those who
acquire a belief other than this are doomed and sentenced to terrible fate.

Therefore do not forget to ask prayers for true faith and right path. All our good deeds
depend on faith and faith is dependent upon beliefs. If deeds are good but faith is wrong,
it does not count in good. On the other hand if belief is right but deeds are bad, again one
cannot be listed in pious men. The saying of Quranic scholars advocate it:

Remember that false belief leads to faithlessness and wicked deeds make one sinful.
Those who are sinful will be forgiven by Allah but those who did not believe will be sent
to hell.

Therefore, do not go near any speech, writing or thought which disrespect Prophet,
Sahaba (his companions) and other religious leaders of Islam. Avoid everyone who
preaches and propagates such teachings. It may be in the form of a religious leader, a
mentor, teacher or a friend. Protect your faith because we have surrendered ourselves to
Allah and not to a religious leader or priest. We have to protect our faith and our action.
Quran has stated that “Sirat-e-Mustaqeem” is the right path to success.

“Guide us in the straight path. The path of those whom you have favored.”

Success is following the path of Prophet Muhammad, his companions and their pious
followers, all else is poor penitence. We recieved Quran and sayings of Prophet
Muhammad through these religious pious scholars so it is our duty to praise and respect
them. Now-a-days the evil forces are trying to keep away the youth from their ancestors
through various conspiracies and disconnect the spiritual link between them. It has been
tried to keep the youth ignorant of the achievement and sacrifices of their ancestors. The
newly established doctrine is working hard to impose their own agenda and spread their
say among the youth. They are busy in the propagation of their self-made explanations
and interpretation.

These scholars explain and interpret Quran and sayings of Prophet in a purely new way,
which has not been addressed in the past fifteen centuries by any religious scholar. They
present their evil thoughts as Islam. The way followed by companions of Prophet and
other religious scholars for the previous fifteen centuries is declared as innovation and
wrong. Thus, they create sectarianism in the society. They consider all other Muslims as
“Mushrik” non-believers. They do not hesitate to commit suicide attacks on common
Muslims. This dangerous thought and narrative have put all the Islamic countries on fire.
The lives of the whole Ummah are in danger. It is difficult to protect life and wealth of
Muslims. Here in the west, there is a good care of law and order. The government policy
and police protect you completely. Even Muslims are attacked as reaction to this.
Therefore, boys and girls feel unsafe while attending colleges and universities.

We cannot ignore the problem we have. It is the duty of true religious scholars to raise
voice against these false beliefs and ideologies.

The international conspiracies and un-Islamic thoughts supported these organizations and
institutions. Therefore, this mindset has prevailed over a large area spreading disunity and
disharmony. We need to avoid such beliefs and doctrines. Quran obligates us to follow
the way of Prophet Muhammad and his companions. We pray five times daily to remain
on true path and follow our ancestor.

Disunity has caused obvious losses of Muslim Ummah. We need to consider the sayings
of Prophet Muhammad mentioned in “Sihah-e-Sitaa” (six famous books of Hadith) and
other hadith books regarding “Fitna-e-Khwarij” (Traits of Deviants). Prophet has clearly
mentioned that these people will call the Muslims as “Kafir” (non-believers) and they are
termed as wolves and dogs of hell. Even it has been explained that their prayer will make
you look down upon yours. They will recite the Quran but it will not go beyond their
throats (they will not act on it). They will be sweet in words but their hearts will be hard.

The sayings of Prophet have the news that Ummah will divide into 73 sects and 72 of
them will go to hell.

It was narrated from Anas bin Malik that the Messenger of Allah (‫ )ﷺ‬said:
‘The Children of Israel split into seventy-one sects, and my nation will split into seventy-
two, all of which will be in Hell apart from one, which is the main body.”

These are harsh ground realities. We are living in an age where all the sects exist. These
merchants of faith play with the beliefs of common people. Social media is a global plate
form for them. The saying of prophet that “where a man is a believer at night and
becomes an infidel in the morning” is exactly for this age.

These 72 sects are working on a same agenda, to diminish the love of Prophet
Muhammad in the hearts of Muslims. Therefore, every deed and belief which respects
and honors Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is considered as “Shirk” and “Bida’at”
(innovation) by them even if it is proved and verified by Quran and sayings of Prophet.

So, every true Muslim should try to spread the true picture of Islam. The message of
peace and blessing given by Muhammad (PBUH) should be propagated. Allah should be
believed as one and only creator of the universe and matchless in all his attributes. The
message of holy Prophet should be conveyed to everyone around the globe in order to
discharge one's obligation and remain faithful. All the companions and fellows of
prophet, our ancestors and worthy scholars should be highly respected and should never
be defamed or scorned. Avoid the company all those who defame or disrespect these
worthy personalities. Allah says:

“Then sit not you after recollection with the unjust people.”

These people are ruining the true peaceful picture of Islam with the stains of extremism,
murderer and killings. Do not let them achieve success and propagate the peaceful
message of Islam and holy Prophet.

A beautiful deed in Muslim Ummah is “Eisal-e-Sawab”, sending Sawab to the dead

(requiem) which has been narrated in Quran and Hadith. The spiritual status of pious
people is raised while the sins of sinner are remitted through it. Therefore, everyone who
pray should say these words:

“O Lord! Forgive me, my parents and other Muslims in the hereafter”.

The act of sending Sawab and asking forgiveness for the deceased also existed in
previous Ummah.
“And those who came after them submit, O our Lord! Forgive us and our brothers who
preceded us in the faith”

Like other acts this also existed in previous Ummah. Muslims pray for their deceased
ones after recitation, praying, charity or other good deeds. “Urs” (The date of demise of
the Friends of Allah is called Urs), “Barsi” (death anniversary) “Khatam” (recitation of
complete Quran for the soul of deceased one) and “Chalishwa” (40th Night of death) all
are examples of “Eisal-e-Sawab”.

We should send “sawab” (Eisal e Sawab) for our deceased one in these holy days of
Ramadan. If we remember them in our prayers today, we will be remembered by our
children in their prayers tomorrow. If we arrange gatherings for sending blessings upon
the holy Prophet, his companions and other liked people of Allah, it will create love in
our hearts for them and a relationship will be developed. The others will not succeed in
their agenda. It is good to arrange a gathering in the memory of a religious personality at
mosques and Madrassas after “Aftar” (breaking the fast) wherein his life, beliefs and
services are discussed. If the person is from “Ahl-e-Baith, then explain his status while
referring to Quran and Hadith and if he/she belongs to the companions of Prophet then
discuss his/her bravery, sacrifice and loyalty towards Prophet Muhammad in the light of
Quran and Hadith. Similarly if he is another scholar of Islam, talk about his love for
Allah and prophet and his services.

Thus, we will develop a deep relationship with our ancestors and prophet Muhammad
(PBUH). All praise to Allah! Arrangement of Eisal-e-Sawab programs is our routine. It
shows our relationship with our worthy and pious ancestors. It a step towards getting
close to them in the hereafter.

Because Allah says:

“O believers! Fear Allah and be with the truthful.”

Study “Tafsir” (Tafsir is a body of commentary and explication, aimed at explaining the
meanings of the Qur'an), translation of Quran, and books of religious scholars of the
Ummah for spiritual growth and protection of faith.

Arrange “Mehfil-e-Milad” on Monday, Thursday and Friday after “Aftar” during

Ramadan and send blessings upon prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It would be even better
to read “Khatam-e-Khwajagan” at the start of the program.

Along with mosques and Madrasa arrange “Eisal-e-Sawab” gathering at “Aftar” in your
homes. Organize “Khatam-e-Khwajagan” and say “Darood” along with your family. Try
to arrange it at least on Saturday, Sunday and Monday and read it with children if it is
difficult for the whole week. Insha Allah! It will brings blessings and pleasure of Allah in
your home and there will be peace and harmony at your house.

Following is the Khatam-e-Khwajagan.

Khatam-e-Khwajagan:

(Meditation for few minutes) Do “Zikar” few times.

1. “‫”ال اله اال هللا‬

2. “‫”اال هللا‬
3. “‫”هللا هو‬

Say these words at the time of Aftar “breaking the fast”.

 “Catch not us if we forget or miss the mark! O our Lord! And place not heavy burden
on us as you had placed on those before us. O our Lord! Put not that burden onus of
which we have no strength to bear! And pardon us and forgive and have mercy on us.
You are our Master; then help us against the infidels.”

Following are the names of holy men, holy events and days for your ease. So that we
may act according to “‫ ”و ذکرهم بایام هللا‬and be able to remember these special days.

 3rd Ramadan - Wisal (passing away) of Bibi Fatima (R.A.)

 10th Ramadan – Hazrat Khadija tul Kubra (R.A.)
 17th Ramadan - 1st battle of Islam (Ghazw-e-Badar)
 17th Ramadan - Wisal of Hazrat Aiysha (R.A.)
 20th Ramadan - conquest of Mecca
 21th Ramadan - Martyrdom of Hazrat Ali (R.A.)
 27th Ramadan - Laila-tul-Qadar
 29th Ramadan - Laila-tul-Aljaiza (spiritual Night)

The rest of the days also have Wisal of one or another holy man. Therefore, praying for
all of them include all Muslims, family and relatives. 1st Ramadan marks the holy birth
day of Sheikh Abdul Jilani (R.A) and “Giyarween Shareef” is arranged every month for
his Eisal-e-Sawab.
Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar where the night comes first before day. Last Ashra
(stage, ten days) of holy month comprises of 9 or 10 days. Therefore, the discussion
about the observance of Eid starts in the very beginning of our gatherings. Common
people wish to have Eid on holidays.

Some self-claimed and so called “Mufti” try to become popular these days. They do not
follow a religious principle and disobey it. They earn a short-term fame. There are some
evidences of grants behind such unlawful announcements.

A huge pressure of mosque committee and common people builds up on such occasion
but a religious leader/scholar has responsibility here. He has to choose from the
temporary pleasure of his followers or pleasure of Allah and his Prophet which lies in
obeying the rules of Islamic law. The scholar of Islam is the representative of religion.
Any negligence, laziness or carelessness can degrade and put him in the list of worldly
and materialistic scholars. Therefore, Islamic scholar should respect and take care of the
throne of inheritance of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). People’s praise and criticism
should be one and the same thing for him. His aim should be the pleasure of Allah and
his Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has given a clear principle for the start and end of
Ramadan.

“Whenever you sight the new moon (of the month of Ramadan) observe fast, and when
you sight it (the new moon of Shawwal) break it, and if the sky is cloudy for you, then
observe fast for thirty days.”

Islamic jurists have set up some principles regarding Hadith of moonsighting. The most
important thing is “seeing the moon with eyes”. If it was not possible then eye witness is
the basic principle. If the sky is cloudy, then a single, upright, Muslim witness suffices.
“Shahadat” or moon sighted of two Muslims is necessary for Eid.

If the sky is clear, the moon must be witnessed by a group of Muslims, so the testimony
of a two witnesses is not acceptable.
It is a great Sunnah to start and end Ramadan with moonsighting. The reward of keeping
a Sunnah alive is equivalent to rewards of 100 martyrs in this age. A great care must be
taken while following this Sunnah. The judge must observe the statement of the witness
for truth and lies. He is not there to accept the witness only as it comes.

Qazi must complete all the lawful conditions first. He is not eligible to announce if there
is no support or this witness is not corroborated by near country. Thirty days must be
completed in this condition.

We must follow the Sunnah of moonsighting at every cost in order to keep this centuries
old Sunnah alive. It get us close to the court of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and leads to
the failure of those who do not follow Sunnah of Prophet.

The Last “Aftar” of Ramadan marks the end of this guest month and the “Itikaf” of
Muslims also reaches its end. Muslims feel interesting emotions due to departure of
Ramadan and arrival of Eid. The effect of worship, prayers, patience and courage during
Ramadan can make us successful in every matter of life, if we take care of purity and
piety. Now we should avoid evil deeds and bad habits as we avoided it in Ramadan and
during “Itikaf”. Remember that our enemy Satan is free now. Now it’s time to make use
of the spirit (combating Satan and self), which we have developed in the training of
whole month. We should analyze ourselves right from “Laila-Tul-Jaaeza” while
celebrating the happiness of Eid and spend rest of the year like this with asking the
following prayer.
Eid al-Fitr:
When a Muslim gets the pleasure and forgiveness of Allah after struggle and worship, he
celebrates Eid al-Fitr (“festival of breaking the fast”) to show gratitude to Allah for
material and spiritual favors granted and having given him the will and strength to
observe fast during the holy month of Ramadan.

Every year on Eid day Allah pours his countless and limitless blessings upon his servant
(man). The doors of forgiveness are opened. As soon as the believers who fasted in
Ramadan come out of houses for Eid prayer, Allah announces the remission of their sins
making angels witness to this.

“That you should complete the counting and speak of the Greatness of Allah, as He
guided you and so that you may be grateful.”

Eid is not an occasion to sin and disobey Allah or to waste time. It is not an occasion to
engage in shameful and reprehensible behavior in the name of celebration. We should
remember that celebration does not mean committing sin, but rather it involves
remembering Allah and being grateful to Allah for showering His Mercy and Bounties
upon us. That is why, Muslims perform two “rakaat” of prayer, meet one another,
embrace and give charity to the poor and needy.

Reconcile between each other and end hostility. According to Hadith there is
immense reward of 80 years worship for those who settle disputes and reconcile their
difference amicably, for the sake of Allah. It also ends pride and arrogation. Help those to
celebrate happiness of Eid who cannot celebrate it due to poverty. Their prayers will
bring infinite happiness and spiritual satisfaction. Make arrangement for celebrating the
happiness of Eid according to your affordable level, not only for yourself but also for
family, relatives and friends. Earn the prayers of your parents and ask forgiveness if you
have disobeyed them.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to go to the Eid Prayer location by one route and
would return through another route. He would recite this “Takbeer” on the way.

There is no harm in celebrating Eid with all activities of your interest which do not have
squander. Avoid immoral gatherings and activities. Entertain each other. It is the Sunnah
of Prophet to say “Salam” and shake hands while meeting. Tamim Dari narrates that:

Nafi Bin Zubair Narrated from Abu Huraira:

Narrated Abu Huraira:
I was with Allah's Messenger (‫ )ﷺ‬in one of the Markets of Medina. He left (the market)
and so did I. Then he asked thrice, "Where is the small (child)?" Then he said, "Call Al-
Hasan bin `Ali." So Al-Hasan bin `Ali got up and started walking with a necklace (of
beads) around his neck. The Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬stretched his hand out like this, and Al-Hasan
did the same. The Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬embraced him and said, "0 Allah! l love him, so please
love him and love those who love him." Since Allah's Messenger (‫ )ﷺ‬said that nothing
has been dearer to me than Al-Hasan.

Therefore, Islamic scholars say that there is no restriction for “shaking hands” with
Muslims. Whenever you embrace or shake hands with Muslim, it is Sunnah. Abu Ishaq
has narrated that:

Narrated Al-Bara' ibn Azib:

The Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬said: Two Muslims will not meet and shake hands having their sins
forgiven them before they separate.

And hundred blessing are sent for hand shake; Ninety nine for the initiator and one for
the responder.

Let us promise to spend life with such pure love which has peace for ourselves and all
others around us. Where ever we go, we represent Islam and Muslims and our character
must show that we are true Muslims. United Kingdom is a multi-cultural and multi-faith
country. Followers of almost every religion and sect live here. We have to abide by the
rules and principles of Islam with patience and firmness. We should depict the beauty of
“Khulq-e-Muhammad (Manners of Muhammad) and let them feel it. Along with this, we
should protect ourselves from the extremists and those who conspire against Islam and
Muslim Ummah.

We should join the group of Allah and his Prophet and raise the flag of “Azmat-e-Rasool
(Greatness of Prophet Muhammad) after purifying our apparent and spiritual self. Please
Allah by continuous worship and prayers. Follow the right way of our religious mentors
and ancestors who paved this way for centuries and avoid all those who do not follow
them. Deal every human with love and respect. Spread love instead of hate, anger and
invectives. Try to create an atmosphere of brotherhood and fraternity.

We end this book with seeking intercession of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in

supplication to Allah.

Answers to few questions asked in the month of Ramadan:

 It is permissible for a fasting person to take medicine by intramuscular injection.

 Nosebleed does not invalidate the fast.
 Having a wet dream during the day in Ramadan does not invalidate the fast.
However, take care while gargling.
 Lie, backbiting and wrong thoughts do not invalidate fast but deprives one of its
true reward.
 The fasting person does not break the fast by having blood taken for a test.
However, take care if it causes fasting person weak.
 It is not right to inhale steam while fasting.
 A pregnant woman and a nursing mother, both of them are allowed to miss the fast
of Ramadan when they fear harm for their child.
 The person who is unable to fast because of a sickness which he hopes will go
away is not obliged to fast and can make up later. But if the sickness is permanent
and there is no hope of recovery, then you have to feed one poor person for each
day that you did not fast in this Ramadan. (Fidya).
 All types of smoking invalidates the fast.
 If a person voluntarily swallows remnants of food that are left between his teeth
equal to or bigger than size of a chickpea when it is possible to spit them out, then
he invalidates his fast by doing that.
 He who takes medicine in the nose or puts oil in the ears and it went into the
throat, his fast is invalidated.
 If one invalidates his fast unintentionally then he should abstain from matters that
invalidate fasting for the rest of that day out of respect for the sanctity of
Ramadan.
 Taking bath, pouring water on head, washing mouth (rinsing), simple Miswak
(wooden tooth brush), applying oil on body or eyeliner on the eye and
wearing/smelling fragrance do not invalidate the fast.
 If one used a colored thing and its color appeared and dominated saliva, then
swallowing such saliva will invalidate fast.
Acknowledgment of Reality:

World of spirituality and faith celebrates and welcome the arrival of Ramadan. The
spiritual happiness it brings is inexpressible. But it also causes a pain in my heart that my
spiritual mentor “Shiekh ul Aalam” left us for his heavenly abode in this month.

Ramadan used to be the month of my attendance in his court during all the previous years
of my life. Whenever his gloomy prayers would surface during darkness of night or
journeys, light of day, pre-dawn meal or “Aftar”, I would say “Ameen” while bowing my
head in their feet. I was able to write “Hamd” and “Naat” because of his blessings and
spiritual guidance particularly his lecture of “Masnavi” feed my soul.

Ramadan arrived with all these feelings but heart bleeds and eyes are full of tears. A
moment of separation seems like centuries, and years spent in your company went like
few moments.

Usually I used to go to their holy abode in Ramadan after “Dars-e-Quran” (Teaching of

Quran) but now I have decided to spend more time here. I am blessed to sit in “Itikaf”
now. All these blessed days are passing very quickly. Every moment is valuable. The
blessings of Allah are pouring down these days. If we spend our Ramadan without taking
benefit of it, it would be a huge loss and bad luck.

A small booklet has been published which do not have issues related to Ramadan.
However, the importance of Ramadan has been explained in order to succeed in earning
apparent and spiritual benefits of it. I hope it will get the spiritual attention of “Shiekh-
Ul-Alaam” and this little effort will be accepted by Allah and his prophet Muhammad
(PBUH). I hope it will become popular in public and the coming generations will benefit
from it thus becoming a means of relief for me. Insha Allah!

I acknowledge my little knowledge and laziness. It is impossible to carry out this work in
its fullest measure but I started it with the aim to include my name in the travelers of this
holy caravan. I have gleaned from the books of our nobles and extended their say.

In the end I am thankful to all friends who helped me in completion of this book. May
Allah bless them all, particularly Jalil Ahmad Hashmi (president compilation wing
FMRi) who made time for me and dedicated this book to Hazoor Shiekh Ul Aalam
connecting me to him spiritually. What else can be a blessing for me than this? I consider
this favorable review as benevolence of Hazoor “Shiekh Ul Aalam” on this little book
and hope for its general acceptance.
Dedication:
I dedicate this book to all those holy moments and accepted prayers, which I spent in the
company of Shiekh Ul Aalam during Ramadan. These moments are the achievements in
my life whose memories sneak out of my eyes and roll down because they cannot fall to
my lot again.

Humbled servant of Shiekh Ul Aalam (RA)

Muhammad Nawaz Siddiquee Hazarvi

 Review:
The writer Allama Muhammad Nawaz Siddiquee Hazarvi is the chairman of Siddiquee
Educational Complex. His real recognition is being the beloved and true servant of
Hazoor Shiekh Ul Aalam. Whenever the name of Hazoor Shiekh Ul Aalam comes, his
devotion is worth seeing. Sheikh Ul Aalam preached and trained the souls of his disciples
throughout his life. This book of Allama Nawaz Siddiquee is the sub-sequence of that
benevolence. He is working for promoting religion (Islam) in the society which has its
own cultural values. The desire to keep his countrymen inclined towards the basic
religious values in this free cultural environment, is evident from his writing.

As the name suggests, this effort is named after Ramadan Kareem but his pen is not
confined to this topic only. He has tried to cover several religious topics in it. Therefore,
along with long discussions on every aspects of Ramadan, he has jotted down his views
about beliefs, faith, spirituality, ethics, extremism, terrorism, modern technology and its
use in un-Islamic, immoral, disbelief and materialism. He also wrote about cultural clash
and provided answers to common question about Ramadan. However, his emphasis
remained on Ramadan. So, Tarawih, Qiyam-Ul-Lail, Zikar and Wazaaif (prayers),
repentance and importance of asking forgiveness are stated particularly. The writing style
has dominant colors of “Tassawuf” (Mysticism) because writer is the caliph of Shiekh Ul
Aalam. Numerous prayers have been included for the readers to control the desires of
“Nafs” (self) and grow spiritually. Several activities and exercises are suggested for
spiritual purification during the three stages of Ramadan. He has also thrown light on
“Itikaaf” and “Lailat-Ul-Qadar in the last Ashra (ten days) of Ramadan.

Extremism is an external provocation which is spreading like pestilence in common

illiterate Muslims, and Ummah is becoming a prey to it. It is bringing disaster to Ummah.
The writer has pointed out the importance of peace while analyzing this topic. Indeed, it
is need of the day.

The love of prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the basis of our faith. This single base has
put whole Muslim Ummah altogether. No one can defeat Muslims until there is a spark of
love for Prophet Muhammad remaining in their hearts. Therefore, the enemies of Islam
are trying to remove this spark out of Muslims’ heart at first. That is why, the writer has
emphasized on this topic and discussed various manners for keeping this flame alive and
strong proving himself a true lover.

The months and years spent with his mentor particularly Ramadan, have been mentioned
in the book in a very moving manner. No doubt his expression of such love, and
narrative of his separation reflect his esoteric experiences which are visible between the
lines in his book.

Jalil Ahmad Hashmi

President compilation wing FMRi