Page not found – Dar ul Uloom USA https://duusa.org Helping our Muslim Brethren Mon, 11 Apr 2022 11:03:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.7 https://duusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-Logo-3-32x32.jpg Page not found – Dar ul Uloom USA https://duusa.org 32 32 Adhan Time https://duusa.org/adhan-time/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=adhan-time&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=adhan-time Mon, 11 Apr 2022 11:00:48 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=2685

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Masjid Arafat Successfully Hosts First “Fajr Club” Meeting, Will Host Future Meetings Every Sunday https://duusa.org/masjid-arafat-successfully-hosts-first-fajr-club-meeting-will-host-future-meetings-every-sunday/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=masjid-arafat-successfully-hosts-first-fajr-club-meeting-will-host-future-meetings-every-sunday&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=masjid-arafat-successfully-hosts-first-fajr-club-meeting-will-host-future-meetings-every-sunday Sun, 14 Nov 2021 13:14:30 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=2662 On November 7th 2021, Masjid Arafat hosted its first Fajr Club session, with high turnout. Fajr Club is a fun event for all people, including youth and elders, that involves activities such as: skits, Quran/Hadith readings, reminders, breakfast, and basketball. We plan on holding future Fajr Club meetings every Sunday, after Fajr salah. We hope to see you there!

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Mufti Azeemuddin is Delivering a Khutba on Jan. 10th 2020 at Masjid Arafat https://duusa.org/mufti-azeemuddin-is-delivering-a-khutba-on-jan-10th-at-masjid-arafat/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mufti-azeemuddin-is-delivering-a-khutba-on-jan-10th-at-masjid-arafat&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mufti-azeemuddin-is-delivering-a-khutba-on-jan-10th-at-masjid-arafat Sat, 28 Dec 2019 19:47:02 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=2328 This mufti is coming from Chicago to deliver a Khutba at Masjid Arafat on Friday, January 10th 2020. All Muslims are invited to attend.

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Open House https://duusa.org/open-house/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=open-house&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=open-house Mon, 11 Nov 2019 00:09:36 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=2299 Open House on Saturday November 9 th from 11 to 1 PM for tafheem ud Deen Lunch at 1:30 PM RSVP 2815619191

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Laylatul Qadr https://duusa.org/laylatul-qadr/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=laylatul-qadr&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=laylatul-qadr Mon, 27 May 2019 18:06:44 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=2198 Why is Laylatul Qadr Important?

Laylatul Qadr, often translated as the Night of Power, or Night of Decree, or Night of Glory falls in one of the last ten nights of the month of Ramadan. This is the night in which God began the revelation of the Quran. Worship done in this single night is equivalent to 84 years—basically, a lifetime—of worship outside this night. It has the potential, when approached with sincerity, to gain a person grand forgiveness and mercy from God. One narration says, “Whoever prays on Laylatul Qadr out of faith and sincerity, shall have all their past sins forgiven”[Bukhari and Muslim].

When Is Laylatul Qadr?

The exact date of this night is not known. The Prophet Muhammad (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) told us in narrations to seek Laylatul Qadr out in one of the last ten nights in Ramadan, specifically odd nights. This means the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights of Ramadan all have a high potential of being Laylatul Qadr. There is a beauty in the date not being known, because it gives the opportunity to a person to engage in extra worship throughout the last days of Ramadan in hopes of catching the right date. If one specific night was known, humans would naturally put forth their entire effort on that one night, and likely slack off on the other nights.

What do Muslims do on Laylatul Qadr?

Today, many Muslims spend these nights in the mosque where there are programs dedicated to foster an extra spiritual environment. Some take off days from work to ensure they can stay up all night without having to worry about their jobs. After the Taraweeh prayers, the imams will give a talk encouraging Muslims to tie their belts and hit the ground running in these final days. It is very possible a lot of people feel burnt out toward the end of the month, but this is the time that matters most! The boost is needed from the scholars of the community to ensure people exit the month on a high note.

The worship done in this night takes on many forms. Extra prayers, recitation of the Quran, heartfelt supplications, and glorifying God all have their due place. In particular, the Prophet (may the blessings and peace of God be upon him) advised Muslims to recite a supplication that translates to, “Oh Allah, truly you are The Pardoner, you love to pardon, so pardon me.” A beautiful aspect about this supplication: Muslims are asking God to do something He already loves and wants to do, forgive!

Just as a child who sees something scary, and then runs to his mother out of fear of that thing, we should in the same way run to God away from punishment. Just as the mother is there for her child with open arms, God too is there to receive us with a renewed faith and focus on Him.

To all the Muslims finishing up this blessed month of Ramadan, may God give you the strength to go out on a high note with true faith and sincerity. May this month be a means for you to spiritually cleanse yourself and come out fresh. May God make it easy for you to continue the good habits you developed in this month for the rest of the year and for the rest of your lives!

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7 Ways to Enrich Your Life with the Quran https://duusa.org/7-ways-to-enrich-your-life-with-the-quran/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=7-ways-to-enrich-your-life-with-the-quran&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=7-ways-to-enrich-your-life-with-the-quran Wed, 03 Apr 2019 22:33:37 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=1955 Can the Quran be incorporated in daily life? Can it change man’s behavior and attitude? Yes, indeed, it can enlighten the heart, mind and soul.

It was during my teens that I picked up a translation of the Quran in my quest to find my true identity. I wanted to know why I was born, what Allah required of me in the form of duties and responsibilities and how I ought to spend my life in order to win His Pleasure.

Since then, many years on, my heart brims with gratitude at how this Glorious Book has filled up my life with the most beautiful and vibrant colors in order to make it resonate with spiritual fulfillment.

There are many ways in which a Muslim can be connected to the Quran, including the following:

1. Reciting

Why Do You Read the Quran?

Reciting the Quran with correct tajweed (rules of recitation) fills the heart with solace, the soul with peace and the house with blessings.

It makes you feel close to Allah, and alleviates any sorrow or grief due to its immediate stress-relieving effects.

Daily recitation of a few pages of the Quran, especially after Fajr prayer, is the best remedy for keeping oneself on the path of righteousness tied to the rope of Allah.

`Abdullah Ibn `Amr Ibn Al-`As (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The one who is devoted to the Quran will be told on the Day of Resurrection: Read and ascend (in ranks). Recite as you used to recite when you were in the first life (dunia). Your rank will be at the last verse (ayah) you recite.” (Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi)

2. Reading Translation and Exegesis
Reading is one of the most fulfilling pastimes, pursued by millions with zeal. What better to read on a relaxing day than the Quran or its explanation?

A good understanding of reality can be obtained if the Quran is understood by reading its translation and exegesis (tafsir), written by a knowledgeable and specialized scholar, as exegesis helps reveal the secrets of the Quran and sheds light on the hidden meanings of the words, verses and surahs

3. Memorizing

When Should I Start Teaching Quran to My Kids?

`Abdullah Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said,

“He, who does not memorize any part from the Quran, is like a ruined house.” (At-Tirmidhi)

Having Divine words ensconced in your heart enables you to hum them to yourself when feeling low and to stand in long deep supererogatory prayers at night.

Moreover, it makes you feel especially close to Allah when, as you witness incidents in daily life, He replays relevant Quranic words in your mind granting you insight into the reality of the life of this world.

4. Attentive Listening

Whether it’s listening to a Quran recitation or to a scholarly lecture explaining it, whilst traveling in a car, surfing the internet, or attending a live class at an institute or a mosque, one of the best ways of reflecting upon the Quran is listening to it intently when someone reads it and explains it aloud to you.

Any student of Islamic knowledge would testify to the “on-high” feeling of enlightenment that follows a Quran class.

5. Acting upon It

The Quran should be adhered to in our daily life; it is a Book sent as guidance for all mankind. Therefore, all other acts of worship related to the Quran would be of little avail; rather, they could actually bear witness against Muslims on the Day of Judgment, if they did not act upon its commands, or did not intend to act upon them when pursuing its knowledge.

From fulfilling covenants, taking loans, leaving behind inheritance, responding to evil with good, tying the nuptial knot, and calling to Islam; to principles of raising pious children and giving charity – the Quran provides complete guidance to Muslims, on how to lead a peaceful life individually and communally.

6. Teaching It to Others

`Uthman Ibn `Affan (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The best among you is the one who learns the Quran and teaches it (to others.)”(Al-Bukhari)

It sounds very fancy to say, “I teach the Quran”, but in reality, propagating the Quran can be as simple as inviting a few friends over for tea, and reading a number of ayahs out to them in Arabic, followed by translation and exegesis over a period of half an hour. Everyone can then discuss how to apply what they have learned to their lives.

The short surahs of the Quran may be covered, or it may be taught chronologically in its entirety. The point is to open up the Quran for da`wah and reflection on a regular basis. The benefits of this activity – teaching it to others – outweigh those of reflecting upon it in seclusion.

7. Becoming One of Ahlul-Quran
The bond that binds Muslims together on the basis of studying the Quran together is indescribable. It is sincere and unworldly love, solely for the sake of Allah; one that transcends petty motives or gains.

The Quran has filled my life with vibrant colors, enriched my soul with its beneficial knowledge, and guided me to feel the solace of being close to Allah, my Creator. Wouldn’t you also want to go through that beautiful experience?

Source : https://bit.ly/2FYpV7s

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Rewards, Benefits and Virtues of Reciting the Quran https://duusa.org/rewards-benefits-and-virtues-of-reciting-the-quran/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rewards-benefits-and-virtues-of-reciting-the-quran&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rewards-benefits-and-virtues-of-reciting-the-quran Wed, 06 Mar 2019 23:08:55 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=1481 Quran is the 4th and last sacred Holy Book of Almighty Allah. Quran is the Book of guidance for whole mankind. It was revealed on our beloved Prophet (SAW) who is the last Prophet of Allah Almighty. Quran is the Divine book towards which Muslims turn when there is any problem because Quran has the solution to every problem and it is guidance for every aspect of life.

Allah Almighty said about Quran: “This is the Book (the Quran), whereof there is no doubt, guidance to those who are Al-Muttaqoon [the pious]” (Quran, 2:2)

Indeed the Book of Allah is not a book like any other, it is the timeless Speech of Allah, not a created thing, and the study guide for life and death and what comes after. Therefore it deserves a more careful study than anyone else’s speech. So, as a Muslim, we should recite Quran daily with better understanding so that we can earn Allah’s blessings in this life and the hereafter.

Rewards of Reciting the Quran

Muslims will earn great rewards for reciting the Quran and implementing it in their daily life routine. We will discuss below some rewards from Quran and Hadiths in this article. In Hadith Prophet (SAW) stated that: “Whoever recites ten Ayahs (verses) in qiyaam will not be recorded as one of the forgetful. Whoever recites a hundred Ayahs (verses) in qiyaam will be recorded as one of the devout, and whoever prays a thousand Ayahs (verses) in qiyaam will be recorded as one of the muqantareen (those who pile up good deeds).” (Abu Dawood)

The rewards of reciting the Quran are many. In another Hadith, our beloved Prophet (SAW) said: “Verily the one who recites the Quran beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, he will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. And as for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have TWICE that reward.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari). So from this hadith, we can say that a person will get the double reward that is trying hard and doing extra effort to learn and recite Quran for pleasing Allah Almighty. We should try to get hard for reciting Quran in this way Allah will be pleased with us and we will get great rewards in this life and the hereafter.

Benefits and Virtues of Reciting the Quran

Let us look some of the benefits of reciting the Quran on daily basis with understanding so that we can get closer to the majestic words of Almighty Allah. Each benefit acts as enough encouragement to Muslims that they should recite Quran daily with understanding. A Muslim gets to know about the real purpose behind the revelation of Quran it should not like that when a Muslim is in some difficult situation then open the Quran and recite it. This purpose of Quran revelation is mentioned in Quran in the following way: “A Book (the Quran) which We have sent down to you, full of blessings that they may ponder over its Verses, and that men of understanding may receive admonition.” (Quran, 38:29)

It is clear from above verse that the purpose of Quran is to bring blessings to a person and it brings about the spirit of monitoring in the readers. Therefore, if one does not read Quran on daily bases, he or she is actually missing a chance of getting inspiration to examine all the things Allah has created and all the matters of life. Therefore, in order to gain religious reward, a Muslim needs to recite Quran on regularly every day.

  • The Quran will intercede for us on the Day of Judgment: Prophet (SAW) said that: “Read the Quran, for verily it will come on the Day of Standing as an intercessor for its companions.” (Muslim)
  • Cleansing of Heart: When a Muslim recites Quran, it affects the heart and purifies it by cleaning it from all the impurities that stick on it. Allah Almighty says in Quran: “O mankind! There hath come to you an admonition from your Lord and a healing for the (diseases) in your hearts and for those who believe a Guidance and Mercy.” (Quran, 10:57)
  • Be from the best of the people: If you want to be the ones who are best in the eyes of Allah then teach Quran others and learn it too. In hadith, our beloved Prophet (SAW) said: “The best of you are the ones who learn the Quran and teach it to others”(Bukhari)
  • Ten Rewards for each letter recitation from Quran: Hadith related to this is stated in a way that: “Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah, he will have a reward. And that reward will be multiplied by ten. I am not saying that “Alif, Laam, Meem” is a letter, rather I am saying that “Alif” is a letter, “laam” is a letter and “meem” is a letter.” (Tirmidhi). So increase the recitation of Quran to get these rewards.
  • Knowing about matters related to daily life: The Holy Quran does not just comprise of teachings about the past nations but also encloses life transforming instructions and guidelines from the Gracious Lord. In Holy Quran Allah stated that: “And, We have certainly presented for the people in this Qur’an from every [kind of] example – that they might remember.” (Quran, 39: 27). From this verse, we can say that the Sacred Book Holy Quran consists of such examples which are very crucial for one to remember in order to seek constant guidance. So from Quran, we can get any kind of guidance for our daily life problems and all kind of matters.
  • Chance of Communication with Allah Almighty: Quran recitation can be made attractive and in doing so it can initiate a sort of conversation with Allah Almighty. The example of which can be seen in the form of the way Prophet (SAW) read Quran: “And when He (Prophet) recited the verses which referred to the Glory of Allah, He glorified Him, the Great, and when He recited the verses that mention supplication, He supplicated, and when He recited the Verses that mention seeking Refuge of the Rabb He sought (His) refuge” (Muslim).
  • You will get the position in Paradise on the basis of Quran memorization in this life: If you want to get higher rank in Paradise then memorize and recite Quran effectively. The Holy Prophet (SAW) stated related to it as: “It will be said to the companion of the Qur’an: Read and elevate (through the levels of the Paradise) and beautify your voice as you used to do when you were in the dunyaa! For verily, your position in the Paradise will be at the last verse you recite!”(Abu Dawood)
  • Quran will lead to Paradise: Quran recitation will lead all of them who recited it regularly to paradise. Our beloved Prophet (SAW) stated that: “The Quran is an intercessor, something given permission to intercede, and it is rightfully believed in. Whoever puts it in front of him, it will lead him to Paradise; whoever puts it behind him, it will steer him to the Hellfire.”
  • Fulfillment of Religious Duty: The Most Merciful has commanded all the Muslims to reflect on the Quranic Instructions not only to appreciate their significance for it is a Divine Book that leads towards righteousness and morality. It is our religious duty to recite the Quran with understanding.

Daily recitation of Quran brings reward from Allah; it can also bring other benefits in the form of the cleansing of the heart, a chance of communication with Allah and thus becoming a better Muslim every day. The Holy Quran is a highly admired Book of Allah (SWT) that requires proper understanding.

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Muslim Marriage: Beliefs, Rules & Customs https://duusa.org/muslim-marriage-beliefs-rules-customs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=muslim-marriage-beliefs-rules-customs&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=muslim-marriage-beliefs-rules-customs Wed, 06 Mar 2019 23:04:16 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=1479 Islam is easily the second-largest religion in the world. Well over one billion people practice some form of the faith, and a majority of the faithful put religion at the heart of how they live their lives. Learning more about the diverse community of Muslims and the way they’re expected to conduct themselves throughout the marriage process is a good way to better understand this modern religion.

The Religion of Islam
All Muslims belong to a community of believers called the ummah. This community is—theoretically—united in certain beliefs and practices. For example, all Muslims believe there is no god but Allah, that Muhammad acted as Allah’s messenger, and that the Koran is Allah’s recitation. There are certain customs that all Muslims are expected to follow, but since Islam is interpreted in many ways across many cultures, it is difficult to make sweeping generalizations.

Cultural Variation among Matrimionial Muslim Marriage Rules
Indonesian-muslim-coupleThe vast complexity of Islam is compounded by cultural variations among Muslims. Every race and ethnicity counts some Muslims among its number, and mosques have been built around the world where they absorb local marriage customs. Many Muslim scholars take pains to make it clear that local customs often influence the practice of the religion.

Who May Marry
It’s true that the Koran guides Muslims in seeking a marriage partner and that the relevant passages are often interpreted the same way across the world. A marriage in Islam must be between opposite-sex partners who are not too closely related to each other. Muslim men are permitted to choose wives from among fellow believers or from among other “people of the book”: Christians and Jews. Women are expected to marry only other Muslims.

Polygamy Among Muslims
In Islam, men are often permitted to marry multiple women. The warrant for this is to be found in both the Koran and in the personal life of the Prophet. In many areas where the Koran is open to interpretation, Muslims will look for guidance to the life of Muhammad. In this case, the traditional maximum number of wives is set at four, largely because this is the number of wives the Prophet is said to have had. However, men must show that they’re able to support this number of wives. Women are not permitted to marry more than one man, traditionally because of the difficulty of proving which man fathered which son.

Age of Consent Issues
age-of-consent-issues When in doubt, Muslims will often seek instruction from the life of Muhammad. Such is the case where it applies to the allowable age of consent for marriage. It was written that the Prophet’s favorite wife was Aisha, who was betrothed to him at the age of nine. It is further elaborated that he refrained from consummating this marriage until she had reached the age of twelve. Largely as a result of this account, many Muslim societies have set their age of consent somewhat lower than is common among Western societies. In Yemen, for example, the age of consent—that is, the age at which a girl’s guardian (wali) may consent to her marriage—is nine. In most other majority-Muslim countries, the age of consent is twelve. In some secular Muslim communities, however, local laws and customs determine the allowable age. Such is the case in the United States, where the law generally allows marriage between eighteen year olds or between sixteen year olds with parental consent.

The Differences between Muslim Women and Men
The Koran does not mandate inequality between men and women. Officially, men and women enjoy equal rights and duties in the practice of Islam and also equality in the marriage relationship. This theory, however, is often overridden by local customs and ingrained attitudes among communities. Such is the case in prohibiting polyandry while permitting polygamy, prohibiting interfaith marriage for women but allowing it for men, and allowing the practice of certain courtship rituals. It would be fair to say that in most Muslim schools, women are regarded as being under a kind of guardianship or custody, first of their fathers and then of their husbands. In practice, this affects nearly all aspects of how men and women relate to each other in Islam.

Courtship Among Believers
young-muslim-coupleDating is rare in majority-Muslim countries. What often happens is that a young man of marriageable age will be offered to a girl’s guardian as a prospect. Most of the time, the girl’s consent is sought, and she generally has the right to refuse an unwanted suitor. It should be noted that sometimes her consent is not required to proceed with what her guardian (wali mujbir) feels is a good match. More secular Muslim countries have outlawed forced marriages, while others permit the practice on the grounds that the father or paternal grandfather has the final say in family affairs. This only applies to the prospective husband’s first marriage. Under Islam, the consent of the bride is required to become a second, third, or fourth wife. On reaching agreement, the two families will usually draft a marriage contract that governs the exchange of goods and other property and sometimes even the duration of the marriage itself.

The Marriage Contract
older-muslim-coupleThe marriage contract (aqd-nikah) takes many forms, but its most basic purpose is to cement the bond between the bride and groom. Often, it will contain the details of the mahr, or dowry, the groom must pay the family of the bride. Ratifying this contract usually involves some kind of ceremony—the practice of which varies greatly across Islam.

The Ceremony
The ratification of the mahr can be as simple as a meeting between the groom and his bride’s guardian. The wali intones that he offers his daughter in marriage in the presence of witnesses at the agreed-upon dowry and in accordance with the law (shari’ah). The groom accepts the terms with similar language, and both parties invoke Allah as the “best witness” to the transaction. The ceremony must also be attended by at least two witnesses who are adults of sound mind and can testify to the observance of the law. Many, if not most, Muslim couples go further than this simple ceremony. Muslim marriage sites are often chosen for their proximity to a mosque, although it isn’t a strict requirement that the ceremony be performed there. The Prophet is quoted as calling for marriage to be announced in public and accompanied by the beating of drums, which has led many to believe that a large public ceremony is preferable to the private mahr. After the ceremony, the marriage should be consummated. The Koran even has advice for the marriage night: “One of you should not fall upon his wife like the way an animal does; let there be a messenger between them.”

Property, Custody, and Other Material Considerations
Muslim-mother-and-sonOnce married, the couple will hold all of their worldly goods in common and share the custody of their children. The law on this subject can get extremely complex, and it varies wildly from one country to the next, but the general trend is toward a partnership in all material things. Even in thoroughly secular countries, the terms of the nikah are usually respected by civil courts. This is true even in countries that lack a strong Muslim influence, such as the United States.

Muslim Divorce
Divorce among Muslims is a much-discussed and argued topic. It’s clear from the Koran that Islam holds a generally positive view of marriage, but the relevant law has always allowed for the possibility of divorce. Islam permits the dissolution of marriage for a number of reasons, such as infidelity and incompatibility. The attitude is neatly summed up by the observation that: “of all the permissible things, divorce is the most disliked by Allah.”

Conclusion
The world’s billion or so Muslims practice a faith that is in many ways similar to the other great religions but that maintains its own unique, sometimes fiercely defended, traditions. In contrast to Christian and Jewish marriage practices, marriage in Islam tends to be less individualistic and come in a wider variety of forms and arrangements. The ceremonies celebrating the union range from something as simple as a meeting and brief conversation to a lavish public spectacle. Islam’s attitude toward divorce is at once realistic and regretful. Where it comes to matters matrimonial, Muslim marriage customs are broad enough to fit nicely into just about every society on Earth.

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How To apply Quran In Daily Life https://duusa.org/how-o-apply-quran-in-daily-life/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-o-apply-quran-in-daily-life&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-o-apply-quran-in-daily-life Wed, 06 Mar 2019 22:35:08 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=1474 Can the Quran be incorporated in daily life? Can it change man’s behavior and attitude? Yes, indeed, it can enlighten the heart, mind and soul.

It was during my teens that I picked up a translation of the Quran in my quest to find my true identity. I wanted to know why I was born, what Allah required of me in the form of duties and responsibilities and how I ought to spend my life in order to win His Pleasure.

Since then, many years on, my heart brims with gratitude at how this Glorious Book has filled up my life with the most beautiful and vibrant colors in order to make it resonate with spiritual fulfillment.

There are many ways in which a Muslim can be connected to the Quran, including the following:

1. Reciting

Why Do You Read the Quran?

Reciting the Quran with correct tajweed (rules of recitation) fills the heart with solace, the soul with peace and the house with blessings.

It makes you feel close to Allah, and alleviates any sorrow or grief due to its immediate stress-relieving effects.

Daily recitation of a few pages of the Quran, especially after Fajr prayer, is the best remedy for keeping oneself on the path of righteousness tied to the rope of Allah.

`Abdullah Ibn `Amr Ibn Al-`As (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The one who is devoted to the Quran will be told on the Day of Resurrection: Read and ascend (in ranks). Recite as you used to recite when you were in the first life (dunia). Your rank will be at the last verse (ayah) you recite.” (Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi)

2. Reading Translation and Exegesis

Reading is one of the most fulfilling pastimes, pursued by millions with zeal. What better to read on a relaxing day than the Quran or its explanation?

A good understanding of reality can be obtained if the Quran is understood by reading its translation and exegesis (tafsir), written by a knowledgeable and specialized scholar, as exegesis helps reveal the secrets of the Quran and sheds light on the hidden meanings of the words, verses and surahs.

3. Memorizing

When Should I Start Teaching Quran to My Kids?

`Abdullah Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said,

“He, who does not memorize any part from the Quran, is like a ruined house.” (At-Tirmidhi)

Having Divine words ensconced in your heart enables you to hum them to yourself when feeling low and to stand in long deep supererogatory prayers at night.

Moreover, it makes you feel especially close to Allah when, as you witness incidents in daily life, He replays relevant Quranic words in your mind granting you insight into the reality of the life of this world.

4. Attentive Listening

Whether it’s listening to a Quran recitation or to a scholarly lecture explaining it, whilst traveling in a car, surfing the internet, or attending a live class at an institute or a mosque, one of the best ways of reflecting upon the Quran is listening to it intently when someone reads it and explains it aloud to you.

Any student of Islamic knowledge would testify to the “on-high” feeling of enlightenment that follows a Quran class.

5. Acting upon It

The Quran should be adhered to in our daily life; it is a Book sent as guidance for all mankind. Therefore, all other acts of worship related to the Quran would be of little avail; rather, they could actually bear witness against Muslims on the Day of Judgment, if they did not act upon its commands, or did not intend to act upon them when pursuing its knowledge.

From fulfilling covenants, taking loans, leaving behind inheritance, responding to evil with good, tying the nuptial knot, and calling to Islam; to principles of raising pious children and giving charity – the Quran provides complete guidance to Muslims, on how to lead a peaceful life individually and communally.

6. Teaching It to Others

`Uthman Ibn `Affan (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The best among you is the one who learns the Quran and teaches it (to others.)”(Al-Bukhari)

It sounds very fancy to say, “I teach the Quran”, but in reality, propagating the Quran can be as simple as inviting a few friends over for tea, and reading a number of ayahs out to them in Arabic, followed by translation and exegesis over a period of half an hour. Everyone can then discuss how to apply what they have learned to their lives.

The short surahs of the Quran may be covered, or it may be taught chronologically in its entirety. The point is to open up the Quran for da`wah and reflection on a regular basis. The benefits of this activity – teaching it to others – outweigh those of reflecting upon it in seclusion.

7. Becoming One of Ahlul-Quran
The bond that binds Muslims together on the basis of studying the Quran together is indescribable. It is sincere and unworldly love, solely for the sake of Allah; one that transcends petty motives or gains.

The Quran has filled my life with vibrant colors, enriched my soul with its beneficial knowledge, and guided me to feel the solace of being close to Allah, my Creator. Wouldn’t you also want to go through that beautiful experience?

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Norms & Vales In Islam https://duusa.org/norms-vales-in-islam/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=norms-vales-in-islam&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=norms-vales-in-islam Sun, 03 Mar 2019 21:58:20 +0000 https://duusa.org/?p=1303
“Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear – Surah Baqarah – V 286“
Allah

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Akgunduz

Rector of the Islamic University of Rotterdam

 There is a continuing international debate around the world in general and in the Netherlands in particular. There are a lot of views and opinions about globalization of norms and values. The Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende intents to establish a commission to discuss about the norms and values.  We hear the speakers of each religious, political or ideological group profess that their religion, group or ideology, which has a contribution to existing values and norms. So I can imagine that a lot of people wonder in this country about possible contribution of Islam to the existing norms and values What are the basic values of Islam that afford strength to the structure of society, its foundation, and progress? Does it have principles and aims which it specifies from the point of view of the social structure and human relations? Does it take moderation, positive action, tranquility and peace in social life as its basis, or is its aim enmity, blood, and revenge?

Let’s forget the negative publicity of the last months around Islam and everything, which has to do with Islam, because it’s temporary, in my opinion, let’s hope as it is at least. Of course only to hope is not enough, we have to take actions in order to establish or continue the harmony. The Netherlands has a long common history with the world of Islam. Islam has been a scientific study-field of the Dutch academic world for centuries. Both facts have to do with the presence of the Netherlands in the present Indonesia.

The Central Office for the Statistics has figured out that on the first of January 2002, there are around 900.000 Muslims in the Netherlands. In Amsterdam, Islam is the biggest religion with 13% in the same year. It has nothing to do with a high percentage of conversion, but with the presence of Muslim minority groups since the sixties.

The current situation and the future of this arbitrary composed Muslim-society in a secular state like the Netherlands is continuously a topic of the Dutch public, politics and media. A lot of problems around this topic are discussed daily. Unfortunately, the Muslim minority is not emancipated enough, therefore the positive contribution of Islam and Muslims to the norms and values in the Netherlands is also not clear or not in progress yet, although Islam, like other religions, can provide a certain contribution to the harmony and peace.

I will try to expound the view of Islam about norms and values, and discuss which of these values can be useful in this society. The fact that the norms and values are discussed nowadays gives me occasion to research if it has to do something with fading away of the religious factors.

First, we have to make a distinction between religions and followers. For example, while it is obligatory that all attributes of all Muslims should be Muslim, in the reality it is not always thus. We should not refer to Islam all bad or good attributes of Muslims every time.

I- ISLAMIC VALUES CAN BE DIVIDED IN THREE GROUPS

These basic values and needs which define the foundations for good individual and social life, are classified into three levels, or hierarchy, namely (1) necessities (dharuriyyat); (2) convenience (hajiat); and (3) refinements (kamaliat). In the legal theory (usul al fiqh) of Islam there is a maxim “the general aim of legislation” in Islam is to realize values through protecting and guaranteeing their necessities (al dharuriyyat) as well as fulfilling their importance (al hajiyyat) and their embellishments (tahsiniyyat).  The human basic values consist of life (al nafs), reason (al ‘aql), descent (nasab), property (al mal) and religion (al din). Islam protects these primary human values, and prohibits any violation of them.

1. Five Basic Values for All Mankind

According to Islam there are five basic values for humanity, which are advised to be protected every time. Depending on circumstances to build up harmony and universal peace, advises to preserve the five basic values at the lowest level or the barest minimum for an acceptable level of living. These basic values therefore includes the ability to perform moral responsibilities; protection of life, securing food, clothing and shelter, education, the right to earn a living, to set up a family, etc. It is to be understood that at this level, one has enough to live but not necessarily to be in some comfort. Islam preaches to that a human being cannot live without these basic values. Individuals and states are advised to protect or at least to respect these basic values.

A) Life (Physical Self): This includes basic items such as food, clothing, shelter, transport, health etc. In other words, physical self means all those that could provide a healthy body to lead a purposeful life. Islam, holds the human soul in high esteem, and considers the attack against innocent human beings a grave sin, this is emphasized by the following Qur’anic verse: “… whoever kills a human being for other than manslaughter or corruption and mischief in the earth, it shall be as if he had killed all mankind, and whoever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind. Our messengers came unto them of old with clear proofs (of Allah’s Sovereignty), but afterwards lo! Many of them became prodigals in the earth” (the Qur’an, 5: 32). In fact, Muslims serve for life, not for death. In Islam and other religions, all men are equal, regardless of color, language, race, or nationality.

Internationalized crimes are threatening life like drug trafficking and the trafficking of women and children which became much more difficult to control today because of their international character. Like crime, disease has also become globalizes and threatens the life. AIDS is one of those epidemics spreading in the world, which can only be brought under control through a global effort. The porous borders of today’s world have made it all the more difficult to check all kinds of contagious disease.

B) Religion: Religion is considered as a basic value or fundamental right of every individual. One is free to practice the religion of his choice. There should not be any compulsion in choosing one’s religion, nor obstruction to practice it. The religion is for providing guidance, peace, tranquility, comfort and purpose in life. The religion is for teaching man to uphold truth, justice, and all the virtues. The religion is for teaching man to avoid the vices. There is no coercion in Islam; Islam came with the just word of our creator. In Quran 2:256; God said “Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from Error…”

According to many scholars, religion will be one of the prime factors of the 21st Century. Huntington, in his theory The Clash of Civilizations” analyzed the present international conflicts in terms of clash of civilizations -conflict between the two cultures two civilizations -Islamic and Western civilizations. But this is not true.

In the world of humanity, from the time of Adam up to now, two great currents, two lines of thought, have always been and will so continue. Like two mighty trees, they have spread out their branches in all directions and in every class of humanity. One of them is the line of prophet-hood and religion, the other the line of philosophy in its various forms. Whenever those two lines have been in agreement and united, that is to say, if the line of philosophy, having joined the line of religion, the world of humanity has experienced a brilliant happiness and social life. Whereas, when they have become separated, goodness and light have been drawn to the side of the line of prophet-hood and religion.

C) Intellect or Knowledge (Al Aql): The intellectual nature of man is made up of mind or intelligence or reasoning power. To this aspect Islam pays extraordinary attention and builds the intellectual structure of man on most sound foundations. Islam classifies knowledge into two, the basic or fundamental which must be secured by every individual and the specialized knowledge which should be secured by only a few in a society.

D) Family Life and Offspring (Al Nasab): In a time when values tend to be turned upside down, family life as the very heart of society was attacked just as much as many other handed-down traditions. About ten years ago, when it become fashionable for young torchbearers to live in “communities”, share sex and children and earnings, many people feared that this might mean the end of family life. Fortunately, this is not so. In the end, the overwhelming majority of young women still dream of having a wedding ring on their finger, living in a comfortable flat as “Mrs. So-and-so” and bringing up their children in an orderly home, just as young men prefer to introduce “her” with the words” “This is my wife”. Neither socialism nor any other “isms” were able to uproot what has been implanted into human nature from time immemorial.

E) Wealth (Al Mal): Wealth is obviously a fundamental human value. White-collar crimes such as money laundering, embezzlement and corruption “transcend frontiers and have become similar everywhere” and threatening this value. Due to the globalization process, the maximum wealth of the world is now accumulated in few hands. Less than one billion people now possess 79% of the total wealth and 11.2% people are controlling 62.5% income of the world. US (4.6% population) are getting 25.7% of the world income, which is 26% of the total wealth. Unfortunately the total income of the whole Muslim world (total population 20.5%) is only 3.5% and they control only 5.3% of the world trade.

There is erosion in this value. The immoral character of the global economy is becoming even more apparent in yet another sphere. Globalization, aided and abetted by the removal of national controls over cross-border financial flows and the computer revolution, has resulted in short-term capital entering and exiting markets at lightning speed. Because this capital is as massive as it is volatile, it is capable of wreaking havoc upon an economy, which may not have the mechanisms to deal with it. The dramatic outflow of capital from the region, triggered off to a large extent by currency speculation, has had a devastating impact upon undeveloped countries’ economies. Millions of women and men have lost their jobs; millions more are struggling to survive as hunger and poverty ravage home and hearth. It is not just the tragic consequences of capital volatility that religion would regard as a blot on the human conscience.

2. Secondary Values: Conveniences (al hajiyyat)

Conveniences comprise all activities and things that are not vital to preserve the five foundations, but rather, are needed to remove difficulties or impediments in life. Examples include the use and enjoyment of things that man can do without, but with difficulty, such as the use of some mode of transport (a car), a carpet in winter, etc.

3. Luxury Values: Refinements (al tahsiniyyat)

This category includes items that are beyond those for convenience. They do not only remove difficulty but improve the comfort. For example, if a car is considered as an item of convenience, than a chauffeur-driven car is obviously a refinement.

II- ISLAMIC NORMS

Islam has paid great attention to norms, which can protect basic values. We can’t explain all Islamic norms relating to basic values, which we have mentioned above. But we would like to mention five important norms here as examples:

1. Self Interest vs Selfsacrifice

While the present economic order, right from a small level player to Trans National Companies, is self-centered, Islam advocates the concept of selfsacrifice. It accepts that secret of progress lies in self-sacrifice, and in holding the nation’s benefit above personal benefits. Every Muslim should expend all his effort and energy for the society he belongs to. Such efforts of his would be rewarded by Allah not only in this world but hereafter also. ‘Should I die, let my community live, for I have an everlasting life in my community’.

2. Extravagance vs Frugality

The present economic world order generates profit as well as consumer in a cyclic manner. It has produced a society, which believes and practices a wasteful or extravagant life-style and considers it their right to “use” because they “have” it. This is in total contrast to Qur’anic model of modesty, simplicity and frugality.

The All-Compassionate Creator desires THANKS in return for the bounties He bestows on mankind, while wastefulness is contrary to thanks, and slights the bounty and causes loss. Frugality, however, shows respect for the bounty and is profitable. Yes, frugality is both a sort of thanks, and shows respect towards the Divine mercy manifested in the bounties, and most definitely is the cause of plenty.

3. Greed vs Contentment:

“Excess and wastefulness lead to greed, and greed has three consequences:” The First is dissatisfaction. As for dissatisfaction, it destroys endeavor and enthusiasm for work, and causes the dissatisfied person to complain instead of giving thanks, and makes him lazy. Such a person abandons possessions which though few in number are licit and seeks possessions which are illicit and free of trouble. And he sacrifices his self-respect on that way, and even his honor. The Second Consequence of Greed is disappointment and loss. The greedy person drives away what he wishes for, is found disagreeable, and is deprived of assistance and help. He even confirms the saying: ‘The greedy person is unsuccessful and suffers loss.’ The ThirdConsequence: Greed destroys sincerity and damages actions in regard to the Hereafter. For if a God-fearing person suffers from greed, he will desire the regard of others. And someone who considers the regard of others cannot have complete sincerity. This consequence is extremely important and worth noticing.

Excess and wastefulness leads to lack of contentment. And lack of contentment destroys enthusiasm for work; it causes laziness, opens the door to complaining about life, and makes the dissatisfied person complain continuously.

4. Generalizing a Crime vs Personality in Criminal Law

The “fundamental norm” in Islam that is explained the Qur’anic verse: ‘No bearer of burdens can bear the burden of another’ which he used in its meaning of “No one is answerable for another’s faults or errors’. One of the most basic principles of “some human politics”, was “Individuals may be sacrificed for the good of the nation and society. Everything may be sacrificed for the sake of the country.” This “fundamental human law” had resulted in appalling crimes throughout history, including the two World Wars this century, which had “overturned a thousand years of human progress”, and had given the license for the annihilation of ninety innocents on account of ten criminals. Whereas the verse taught the principle that no one was responsible for another’s crimes. And no innocent person could be sacrificed without his consent, even for the whole of humanity. It establishes true justice for mankind.

We must not forget what the Qur’an states: “Namely, that no bearer of burdens can bear the burden of another” (6: 164). There is a universal rule of law: No one can be punished without evidence. Another important rule: Freedom from guilt is principal, i.e. everybody is innocent unless the opposite is proved. The Prophet is reported to have said, “A believer remains within the scope of his religion as long as he doesn’t kill another person illegally.

5. Peace and Forgiveness

In first step, Islam treats of peace in the eschatological sense, as the ultimate goal of human life, almost synonymous with salvation. A second way in which the Islam looks at peace might be called the psychological sense, as tranquility and peace of mind, an inner confidence born of faith that enables the religious believer to face adversity without anxiety or despair. Particularly when one is facing the approach of death, the believer can attain a peace of mind, which will enable the person to overcome spiritual turmoil and fear. A third aspect of peace is universal peace.  It reflects the widespread conviction of the time that humankind can sink no lower in criminality towards its own kind and expresses the hope for a time of peace and prosperity for all mankind. According to Sayings for our Prophet, the virtues of civilization will prevail, the face of the earth cleaned of filth, and universal peace be secured.

Islam commands that “one believer should not be vexed with another believer for more than three days,” and that so long as there is no reconciliation, both sides perpetually suffer the torments of fear and revenge.”  Islam advices us like that: ‘Look at the defect in your own soul that you do not see or do not wish to see.  Deduct a share for that.  As for the small share which then remains, if you respond with forgiveness, pardon, and magnanimity, in such a way as to conquer your enemy swiftly and safely, then you will have escaped all sin and harm.’  Thus, self-awareness should lead to repentance, repentance to forgiveness, forgiveness to reconciliation and the seeds for a lasting peace are laid.

CONCLUSION

Religion in general and Islam in particular can play positive role in reviving common values for mankind and uniting people for justice and equality, particularly the weaker sections.

Today, people should interact with each other much more than the past. There should be cultural exchanges and greater understanding of other values and norms. Within each cultural and national values and norms there should be universal attempt to address problems of social inequalities, gender inequalities and human rights. We must work for global solidarity, and struggle against injustice and for the protection of human rights. Global solidarity is necessary for the protection of the environment, to respond to natural calamities and to tackle poverty. For all these concerns, one needs an international perspective and outlook, which overcomes the narrow nationalist outlooks, which are inadequate to address global environmental concerns, concerns for common values, human rights and gender inequalities. Addressing issues of violations of human rights, gender inequalities and environment go beyond boundaries and over ride nationalist concerns.

I can declare here, on the contrary of some pretexts about Islam and Muslims, Islam attaches great importance to the health and moderation of the social structure, and works to establish general peace and well being. It does not countenance at all movements that are destructive and divisive. It sees positive action as a duty and mark, and does not permit negative action. It makes firm love and brotherhood in the structure of society, and puts forward the necessity of union and unity. It rejects decisively movements, which destroy the common values and sincerity between members of society, like tribalism, racialism, and negative nationalism.

Source : https://islam.uga.edu/norms_values.html
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