Thursday, September 12, 2013

For those who do not read the Holy Qur'an often


GatewaytoQuran                                  GatewaytoQuran
GatewaytoQuran                                  GatewaytoQuran


Today's article will be in a form of an advice  for those who go without reading the Qur'aan for a month, or even many months, and who have no excuse for such behaviour? However, you will find some of them reading those magazines that contain no benefit for them, and following them up closely! Many of us are like these people. We do not have time to read the Holy Qur'an but somehow we have time to read a evil magazine or book. Or, we may read those articles or literature which neither give benefit to this world or to the Herafter.

Shaykh 'Abdul 'Aziz Ibn Baz says that:

It is recommended for every Believing man and woman to recite the Book of Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)  often, with due contemplation and understanding. This may be done by using a copy of the Qur'aan or from one's memory. Allaah - the Most High - said:

"This is a Book which We have sent down to you, full of blessings, that you may ponder over its Verses, and that men of understanding may remember." [Soorah Saad38:29].

And: "Indeed those who recite the Book of Allah and offer the Prayer perfectly and spend in charity out of what We have provided for them - secretly and openly - hope for a sure trade-gain that will never perish. That He may pay the their wages in full and give them even more out of His Grace. Indeed, He is Oft-Forgiving, ready to appreciate good deeds." [Soorah Fatir 35:29-30]

The aforementioned recitation of the Qur'aan includes both reciting and acting upon it. The recitation is to be done with contemplation and understanding of it. Sincerity to Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) is a means of complying with and acting upon the Qur'aan, and its recitation contains a great reward - as the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam said: "Recite the Qur'aan. For on the Day of Resurrection, it shall come as an intercessor for its companion." This was recorded by Muslim in his Saheeh (no. 804).

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Historical Miracle of the Quran - NUH'S FLOOD

GatewaytoQuran                                                                                          GatewaytoQuran

We sent Nuh to his people and he remained among them for fifty short of a thousand years; yet the Flood engulfed them while they were wrongdoers. (Qur'an, 29:14)
The Prophet Nuh (as) was sent to his people by Allah. They had distanced themselves from the commandments of the Lord and ascribed partners to Him. The Prophet Nuh (as) warned them that they should serve Allah alone and abandon the false worship which they had established in their community. Although the Prophet Nuh (as) called on his people with great eloquence and wisdom, and warned them against the punishment of Allah, they rejected the Prophet and continued to associate partners to Him. At this, Allah told the Prophet Nuh (as) that He would punish the deniers by drowning them. But He also informed His Messenger that His mercy would save the believers, those who embraced true religion and worshipped the One and Only God. The destruction of the people of Nuh and the salvation of the believers is described thus in the Qur'an:
But they denied him so We rescued him and those with him in the Ark. And We drowned the people who denied Our Signs. They were a blind people. (Qur'an, 7:64)
When the time of punishment came, the water in the ground combined with violent rains to cause a giant flood. (Allah knows best.) It is revealed that before the flood came, Allah spoke to the Prophet Nuh (as):
We revealed to him: "Build the Ship under Our supervision and as We reveal. When Our command comes and water bubbles up from the earth, load into it a pair of every species, and your family-except for those among them against whom the word has already gone ahead. And do not address Me concerning those who do wrong. They shall be drowned." (Qur'an, 23:27)
Apart from those who boarded Prophet Nuh's (as) Ark, the entire tribe was drowned. The dead included the Prophet's son who thought he could escape by seeking shelter on a mountain.
It was said, "Earth, swallow up your water!" and, "Heaven, hold back your rain!" And the water subsided and the affair was concluded and the Ark came to land on al-Judi. And it was said, "Away with the people of the wrongdoers!" (Qur'an, 11:44)
Compared to the flood accounts contained in Jewish scriptures, and indeed the various cultural beliefs of other peoples, the Qur'anic account, which was revealed by Allah and is the only divine text to have remained uncorrupted, stands as the most reliable of all these accounts. The Torah, a corrupted text, says that this flood was universal and covered the whole world. On the contrary, it appears from the relevant verses that the flood was a regional one and punished not the whole world but only the tribe that rejected the Prophet Nuh (as). Those who were destroyed in it were the people who rejected the message of the Prophet Nuh (as) and persisted in their denial. There is no indication in the Qur'an that the flood was universal. The verses on the subject read:
We sent Nuh to his people: "I am a clear warner to you. Worship none but Allah. I fear for you the punishment of a painful day." (Qur'an, 11:25-26)
But they denied him so We rescued him and those with him in the Ark. And We drowned the people who denied Our Signs. They were a blind people. (Qur'an, 7:64)
So We rescued him and those with him by mercy from Us, and We cut off the last remnant of those who denied Our Signs and were not believers. (Qur'an, 7:72)

Story of Prophet Sulaiman/Solomon (pbuh) in the Light of Quran by Ibn Kathir

Solomon inherited David's prophethood and dominion. This was not a material inheritance, as prophets do not bequeath their property. It is given away to the poor and needy, not to their relatives. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: "The prophets' property will not be inherited, and whatever we leave is to be used for charity." (Sahih Al-Bukhari).
And indeed We gave knowledge to David and Solomon, and they both said: "All the praises and thanks be to Allah, Who has preferred us above many of His believing slaves!"
And Solomon inherited (the knowledge of) David. He said: "O mankind! We have been taught the language of birds, and on us have been bestowed all things. This, verily, is an evident grace (from Allah)."
And there were gathered before Solomon his hosts of jinns and men, and birds, and they were all set in battle order (marching forwards). (Ch 27:15-17 Quran).
After his father's death, Solomon became king. He begged Allah for a kingdom such as none after him would have, and Allah granted his wish. Besides wisdom, Allah had blessed Solomon with many abilities. He could command the winds and understand and talk to birds and animals. Allah directed him to teach both men and jinns to mine the earth and extract its minerals to make tools and weapons. He also favored him with a mine of copper, which was a rare metal in those days.
During his time horses were the common mode of transportation. They were very essential for defense, to carry soldiers and cart provisions and weapons of war. The animals were well cared for and well trained. One day Solomon was reviewing a parade of his stable. The fitness, beauty and posture of the horses fascinated him so much that he kept on stroking and admiring them. The sun was nearly setting, and the time for the middle prayer was passing by. When he realized this, he exclaimed: "I surely love the finer things of life than the service of my Lord! Return them to me."
Almighty Allah revealed: And to David We gave Solomon. How excellent a slave! Verily, he was ever oft returning in repentance (to Us)!

Saturday, August 31, 2013

Rewards, Benefits and Virtues of Quran and its Recitation 91 COMMENTS



Quran is the book of guidance for a Muslims life. This article is a collection of Quranic verses, Ahadeeth (Prophet’s Saying) and sayings of the salaf (pious people that followed the prophet) on the majesty of Quran, the great virtues for reading and following it.

Watch the following presentation and continue to read the article below:

1. Quran on Quran

To begin with, there are many verses in Quran itself that underscore the majesty of Allah’s verses and the Quran itself –
Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
Say: ‘If the mankind and the jinn were together to produce the like of this Quran, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they helped one another’”[Quran Al-Israa’ 17:88]
Had We sent down this Quran on a mountain, you would surely have seen it humbling itself and rending asunder by the fear of Allah. Such are the parables which We put forward to mankind that they may reflect. [Quran Al-Hashr 59:21]
“This is the Book (the Quran), whereof there is no doubt, a guidance to those who are Al-Muttaqoon [the pious] [Quran Al-Baqarah 2:2]

Friday, August 16, 2013

Qur'anic Prophecies About the Future


These are numerous but we will see the following examples.

1 - The prophecy about the victory of the Romans:
The Almighty Allah, subhanahu wa ta`ala, says:
"The Romans have been defeated. In the nearest land [Syria, Iraq, Jordan and Palestine], and they, after their defeat, will be victorious. Within three to nine years. The decision of the matter, before and after [these events] is only Allah's [before the defeat of the Romans by the Persians, and after the defeat of the Persians by the Romans]..." [Qur'an, 30:2-4]
Seven years later this prophecy became true, and the Romans defeated the Persians.
2 - Prophecy that both al Waleed ibn al Mugheerah and Abu Lahab would die as disbelievers
The Almighty Allah, subhanahu wa ta`ala, says about al Waleed:
"Leave Me alone [to deal] with whom I created lonely [without any wealth or children, i.e. Al Walid ibn Al Mughirah al Makhzumi]. And then granted him resources in abundance. And children to be by his side. And made life smooth and comfortable for him. After all that he desires that I should give more; Nay! Verily, he has been opposing Our Ayat [proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations]. I shall oblige him to [climb a slippery mountain in the Hell-fire called As-Sa`ud, or] face a severe torment! Verily, he thought and plotted. So let him be cursed: how he plotted! And once more let him be cursed: how he plotted! Then he thought. Then he frowned and he looked in a bad tempered way; then he turned back, and was proud. Then he said: "This is nothing but magic from that of old. This is nothing but the word of a human being!" I will cast him into Hell-fire. And what will make you know [exactly] what Hell-fire is? It spares not [any sinner], nor does it leave [anything unburned]!" [Qur'an 74:11-18]
And about Abu Lahab, He, subhanahu wa ta`ala, says:
"Perish the two hands of Abu Lahab [an uncle of the Prophet] and perish he! His wealth and his children will not benefit him! He will be burnt in a Fire of blazing flames!" [Qur'an, 111:1-3]
3 - His prophecy of coming back to Makkah which he left for Madinah. The Almighty Allah, `azza wa jall, says:
"Verily, He Who has given you [O Muhammad] the Qur'an [i.e. ordered you to act on its laws and to preach it to others] will surely bring you back to Ma`ad [place of return, either to Makkah or to Paradise after your death]..." [Qur'an 28:85]
And the Prophet, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam returned to Makkah in the year of the conquest.
4 - The prophecy telling that the Prophet, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam, and the Muslims would enter Makkah in security:
"...Certainly, you shall enter Al Masjid al Haram, if Allah wills, secure, [some] having your heads shaved, and [some] having your head hair cut short, having no fear..." [Qur'an, 48:27]
This prophecy became true and the Muslims conquered Makkah and entered al Masjid al Haram in complete security.
5 - The Prophecy about granting the Muslims succession and authority.
The Almighty Allah says:
"Allah has promised those among you who believe and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to [the present rulers] in the land, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practice their religion which He has chosen for them [i.e. Islam]. And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear [provided] they [believers] worship Me and do not associate anything [in worship] with Me." [Qur'an, 24:55]
The Almighty Allah, subhanahu wa ta`ala, has fulfilled His promise to the Prophet Muhammad, sallallahu `alaihi wa sallam and his nation. He made them successors of great kings and powerful rulers, whose lands and properties were inherited by the Muslims.
www.waytoquran.com

Monday, August 12, 2013

Becoming Companions of the Qur'an

by fara yahya

A Qur’anic Generation
In the spacious courtyard of the masjid, they sat together turning its glorious pages. The rays of sunlight gently bounced from the soft pages of the Qur’an. Humbled by the greatness of its verses and captivated by the beauty of its words, they were often moved to tears but none uttered a word. Tranquility descended over them as individual, melodious recitations began. This was no ordinary study circle and these were no ordinary students, the sight of them alone made eyes turn and hearts were drawn to them. These were young men who had gathered in the courtyard of the masjid – serious students studying the Glorious Qur’an. With a powerful goal in mind and a firm focus, nothing could distract them.

Their soft recitations died down and silence took over as the teacher spoke…

“This Qur’an.… This is the Clear Book of Allah that is not approached by falsehood neither from before it nor from behind it, sent down by the All-Wise, Worthy of all Praise.

It is the never-ending, ever-lasting miracle that is continuous through the course of Time until Allah inherits the earth and what is upon it.

It is the Strong Rope of Allah, the Straight Path and the Light which guides to the truth and the right way.

In it is news of what was before you, what is to come after you and a source of judgment between you.

Whoever abandons it has indeed been destroyed by Allah and whoever seeks guidance in other than it has been led astray.

Whoever speaks by it has been truthful, whoever rules by it has been just and whoever calls to it has indeed called to the straight path.”


One of the students lowered his head as a tear strolled down his cheek. A young haafidh from the city, he often made his journey setting off early to join the rest of the students – many of whom like him were deeply moved by these sessions and couldn’t afford to miss a single class. He was lost in thought, his mind immersed in recalling the greatness of the Qur’an. As he wept in silence, the rest listened attentively.

“It is our role-model and the leader in our lives…
By it we are guided and to it we surrender.
Its commands and prohibitions we act according to, and at its Hudood (boundaries) we halt with firmness.

It is that which ties the heavens to the earth.
A covenant between Allah and His servants.
The most Noble and honoured from the heavenly Scriptures.
What you have before you is the Way of Allah, the Most Exalted, and the Greatest Revelation sent down to Mankind…”


It’s true.
What we have before us is the Book that many lay claim to but only a few realise its value.

“Had We sent down this Qur’an. on a mountain, you would surely have seen it humbling itself and rending asunder by the fear of Allah. Such are the parables which We put forward to mankind that they may reflect.” [Al-Hashr: 21]
Mountains are often mentioned in the Qur’an. as symbols of great stability, firmness, endurance and integrity. But even with these powerful characteristics, the mountains were unable to bear the Qur’an.… they could not bear the trust.
“Truly, We did offer the trust to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they declined to bear it and were afraid of it. But man bore it. Verily, he was unjust and ignorant.” [Al-Ahzaab: 72]

Sunday, August 11, 2013

Who Wrote the Holy Qur'an?


Quran, in Arabic, could only have been written by ONE of 3 possible sources:
       1.  the Arabs
       2.  Mohammad (peace be upon him)
       3.  God (Allah)
(NOTE: The first part is not meant to be a rigorous proof. It is something to ponder upon. However, the second part, about Mohammad [pbuh] wrote it' contains more extensive proof.)
Besides the above mentioned sources, Quran couldn't possibly have been written by ANYONE else.
No other source is possible, because Quran is written in pure, rich, and poetic Arabic, which was not known to anyone other than the above mentioned sources, at that time.  The Arabic language was at its peak in expression, richness, vocabulary, artistic, and poetic value during the time the Quran was being revealed. Anyone speaking the classical Arabic ( the Arabic of Quran at the time it was revealed) would argue that a non-Arab entity couldn't possibly have written such an extensive and brilliant piece of literature in the Arabic language. Quran could only have been written by an Arabic speaking entity.  An entity, who's knowledge, style, vocabulary, grammar, and way of expression was so powerful that it impacted the entire Arabian peninsula, the east, the west, and continues to impact people all over the globe today!
At no other time, in the history of Arabic language, had it ever achieved its peak in expression, literature, and development, than the time of Arabia during the 6th Century, the time when Quran was being revealed.   At no other time in the history of Arabic language had the language ever achieved its highest potential than the time of Arabia during the 6th Century, the time when Quran was being revealed.  The language reached its peak in richness, artistic value, and poetry,  during that time.  With the Arabic language at its peak, and the best of Arabic writers, poets present in Arabia, it is impossible that a non-Arabic speaking entity would write  a book like Quran and have such a dynamite impact on the Arabs!
So only an Arabic speaking entity could have write Quran. With that in mind, we're left with three choies:
     1  -  the Arabs wrote it
     2  -  Mohammad (pbuh) wrote it
     3  -  Allah (swt) wrote it 

Saturday, August 10, 2013

What does the Quran say about Christians?


In the Quran, Christians are often referred to as among the "People of the Book," i.e. people who have received and believed in previous revelation from God's prophets. There are verses that highlight the commonalities between Christians and Muslims, and other verses that warn Christians against sliding towards polytheism in their worship of Jesus Christ.
Commonalities:
"Surely those who believe, and those who are Jews, and the Christians, and the Sabians -- whoever believes in God and the Last Day and does good, they shall have their reward from their Lord. And there will be no fear for them, nor shall they grieve" (2:62, 5:69, and many other verses).
"...and nearest among them in love to the believers will you find those who say, 'We are Christians,' because amongst these are men devoted to learning and men who have renounced the world, and they are not arrogant" (5:82).
"O you who believe! Be helpers of God -- as Jesus the son of Mary said to the Disciples, 'Who will be my helpers in (the work of) God?' Said the disciples, 'We are God's helpers!' Then a portion of the Children of Israel believed, and a portion disbelieved. But We gave power to those who believed, against their enemies, and they became the ones that prevailed" (61:14).
Warnings:
"If only they [i.e. Christians] had stood fast by the Law, the Gospel, and all the revelation that was sent to them from their Lord, they would have enjoyed happiness from every side. There is from among them a party on the right course, but many of them follow a course that is evil" (5:66).
"Oh People of the Book! Commit no excesses in your religion, nor say of God anything but the truth. Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, was (no more than) a messenger of God, and His Word which He bestowed on Mary, and a spirit proceeding from Him. So believe in God and His messengers. Say not, 'Trinity.' Desist! It will be better for you, for God is One God, Glory be to Him! (Far exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belong all things in the heavens and on earth. And enough is God as a Disposer of affairs" (4:171).
"The Jews call 'Uzair a son of God, and the Christians call Christ the son of God. That is but a saying from their mouth; (in this) they but imitate what the unbelievers of old used to say. God's curse be on them; how they are deluded away from the Truth! They take their priests and their anchorites to be their lords in derogation of God, and (they take as their Lord) Christ the son of Mary. Yet they were commanded to worship but One God: there is no god but He. Praise and glory to Him! (Far is He) from having the partners they associate (with Him)" (9:30-31).
Best wishes

Why God's (Allah's) Book Cannot Contain Error


1. God Revealed It: - “ Those who disbelieve in the Reminder when it comes to them (are guilty), for indeed it is an Honorable Scripture. Falsehood cannot come at it from before it or behind it. (It is) a revelation from the Wise, the Owner of Praise”
[Qur'an 41:41-42]

“ Praise be to Allah* Who has revealed the Scripture unto His slave, and has not placed therein any crookedness(but has made it) straight”
[Qur'an 18:l-2].

“ Allah has (now) revealed the fairest of statements, a Scripture consistent”
[Qur'an 39:23]

2. God Preserves It: God has promised to always preserve His book. He says:

“ Surely We revealed the Reminder [the Qur'an and We verily are it's Guardian]” [Qur'an 15:9].

The Qur'an contains no additions. It remains today - letter for letter - as it was revealed over 1400 years ago -nothing added, nothing taken away. Two of the original manuscripts of the Qur'an prepared 1400 years ago still exist today. o­ne is in the Topkapi Sarav Museum in Istanbul, Turkey, and the other in Tashkent, Russia. Both of these are identical in content with the Qur'an available all over the world today.

3. You Can Examine It: God Says:

“ Will they not then consider the Qur'an with care? If it had been from other than Allah they would have found therein much discrepancy”
[Qur'an 4:82]

Here God challenges people to find an error in the Qur'an. If it contains errors then it cannot be from God. If, o­n the other hand, it bad been the production of a human being it would definitely contain errors. A human writer 1400 years ago would have written o­n the basis of the level of knowledge of his or her day. And many of those ideas would turn out to be false later as humankind learns more, especially in the field of science. But the Qur'an is Remarkably free from error.



[*] Allah: name of the only God - used by Arabic-speaking Christians and Jews, and by Muslims of every language.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

What is the Challenge of the Qur'an with Respect to Arabic Prose & Poetry?




M S M Saifullah, cAbd ar-Rahman Robert Squires & Muhammad Ghoniem

The Qur'an in many places challenges the people to produce a surah like it. It appears that the Christian missionaries who call the challenge irrelevent or an utterly subjective criterion are pretty much unaware of how the Arabic poetry and prose compares with the Qur'an. This article is devoted to deal with one aspect of the Qur'anic challenge of produce a surah like it. What is meant by surah like it with respect to the Arabic prose and poetry?
The verses of the Qur'an dealing with the challenge are given below (Hilali and Muhsin Khan's Translation):
Say: "If the mankind and the jinns were together to produce the like of this Qur'an, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they helped one another." [Qur'an 17:88]
And if you (Arab pagans, Jews, and Christians) are in doubt concerning that which We have sent down (i.e. the Qur'an) to Our slave (Muhammad Peace be upon him ), then produce a surah (chapter) of the like thereof and call your witnesses (supporters and helpers) besides Allah, if you are truthful. [Qur'an 2:23]
And this Qur'an is not such as could ever be produced by other than Allah (Lord of the heavens and the earth), but it is a confirmation of (the revelation) which was before it [i.e. the Taurat (Torah), and the Injeel (Gospel), etc.], and a full explanation of the Book (i.e. laws and orders, etc, decreed for mankind) - wherein there is no doubt from the the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns,and all that exists).
Or do they say: "He (Muhammad(P)) has forged it?" Say: "Bring then a surah (chapter) like unto it, and call upon whomsoever you can, besides Allah, if you are truthful!" [Qur'an 10:37-38]
Or they say, "He (Prophet Muhammad(P)) forged it (the Qur'an)." Say: "Bring you then ten forged surah (chapters) like unto it, and call whomsoever you can, other than Allah (to your help), if you speak the truth!" [Qur'an 11:13]
Or do they say: "He (Muhammad(P)) has forged it (this Qur'an)?" Nay! They believe not! Let them then produce a recital like unto it (the Qur'an) if they are truthful. [Qur'an 52:33-34]
cAbdur Rahim Green mentions that:
These are the sixteen al-Bihar (literally "The Seas", so called because of the way the poem moves, according to its rhythmic patterns): at-Tawil, al-Bassit, al-Wafir, al-Kamil, ar-Rajs, al-Khafif, al-Hazaj, al-Muttakarib, al-Munsarih, al-Muktatab, al-Muktadarak, al-Madid, al-Mujtath, al-Ramel, al-Khabab and as-Saria'. So the challenge is to produce in Arabic, three lines, that do not fall into one of these sixteen Bihar, that is not rhyming prose, nor like the speech of soothsayers, and not normal speech, that it should contain at least a comprehensible meaning and rhetoric, i.e. not gobbledygook. Now I think at least the Christian's "Holy spirit" that makes you talk in tongues, part of your "Tri-Unity" of God should be able to inspire one of you with that!

Where the Rivers Meet the Sea


We are going to live with a great sign of Gods’ be he Blessed and Exalted which is reflected in the world of seas and rivers as he says…..
We are going to live with a great sign of Gods’ be he Blessed and Exalted which is reflected in the world of seas and rivers as he says (And it is He Who has let free the two seas (kinds of water): this is palatable and sweet, and that is salt and bitter; and He has set a barrier and a complete partition between them)Verse 53 (Al-Furqan)
It is a great sign as God told us about an existing scientific fact between the river and sea in the area called downstream (which is the mouth of the river into the sea), it’s a very sensitive and important areaand scientists didn’t realize its importance except in the last few years.
A few months ago, Scientists from the United States of America had undertaken a new research to study this area, the area where the river pours in the sea, as they brought down their machines into the deepest point in the downstream. And as we know that all rivers pour in seas as each river has got a source from a certain area and it flows till it ends in the sea where it pours this fresh water and this fresh water penetrates the salty water for a few kilometers and throw its water in the salty sea .   

Saturday, August 3, 2013

The Age of Forty


A recent British study has found that the growth of the brain lasts until …
A recent British study has found that the growth of the brain lasts until almost the age of forty and then it stops afterwards.  Another study affirms that the mental capacities start to deteriorate after the age of forty. Amazingly, the holy Qur’an says that man reaches the age of full strength when he becomes forty and then consequently starts deteriorating after wards. Allah, the almighty says in the holy Qur'an:
 “We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents: In pain did his mother bear him, and in pain did she give him birth. The carrying of the (child) to his weaning is (a period of) thirty months. At length, when he reaches the age of full strength and attains forty years, he says, "O my Lord! Grant me that I may be grateful for Thy favour which Thou has bestowed upon me, and upon both my parents, and that I may work righteousness such as Thou mayest approve; and be gracious to me in my issue. Truly have I turned to Thee and truly do I bow (to Thee) in Islam."” Ahqaf: 46: 15

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Earth’s Rotation



It’s a scientific fact that the earth rotates round its own axis in a circular motion and its speed at the equator is about 1670 km per-hour …

It’s a scientific fact that the earth rotates round its own axis in a circular motion and its speed at the equator is about 1670 km per-hour, a speed that’s faster than that of sound which is 1,200 km per-hour, still we don’t feel such rotation. Allah, the exalted says in the holy Qur’an:
Thou seest the mountains and thinkest them firmly fixed: but they shall pass away as the clouds pass away: (such is) the artistry of Allah, who disposes of all things in perfect order: for he is well acquainted with all that ye do.”  Naml or Ants: 27:88

Sunday, July 28, 2013

Blood Journey Through the Body


Have you ever thought about the enormous distances and constant journeys of blood in your …
Have you ever thought about the enormous distances and constant journeys of blood in your veins without stopping to feed the tissues of your body, supply them with the required oxygen, and remove the toxins and waste? Do you have any idea how this happens? Scientifically speaking, the heart whose size is no more than double the fist beats without stopping at an average rate of 100,000 beats a day i.e. 40 million beats a year to pump blood constantly in a strong network of blood vessels that’s known as the circulatory system whose length is about 97,000 km !!! The required time for the blood to travel through the circulatory system is merely twenty seconds. The question is who perfected the creation of such a miraculous system? It’s undoubtedly Allah, the exalted who says in the holy Qur'an:
“Thou seest the mountains and thinkest them firmly fixed: but they shall pass away as the clouds pass away: (such is) the artistry of Allah, who disposes of all things in perfect order: for he is well acquainted with all that ye do." Naml or Ants: 27: 88
--------------------

Friday, July 26, 2013

The Intelligence of Bees


According to a recent study, scientists have found that the nectar of most flowers piles up during the morning. The study also stated that bees are smarter at distinguishing smells during the early hours of the day than the rest of the day. Such feature helps bees collect the nectar and produce honey well. Scientists wonder how bees knew that there's more nectar in the morning to be more efficient at work during that time. Isn’t it god who guides and inspires bees and says to them in the holy Qur’an:
Then to eat of all the produce (of the earth), and find with skill the spacious paths of its Lord: there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colours, wherein is healing for men: verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought.” Nahl or Bees: 16: 69 

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Listening to Quran

Listening to recitation is the perfume of the souls, the calmer of hearts, and the food of the spirit. Is is one of the most important psychological medicines. It is a source of pleasure, even to some animals – and pleasure in moderation purifies inner energy, enhances the functioning of the faculties, slows down senile decay by driving out its diseases, improves the complexion, and refreshes the entire body. Pleasure in excess, on the other hand, makes the illnesses of the body grow worse.
Abu Nu’aim states, in his Tib an-Nabbi, that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said that the benefits of listening to recitation are increased when it is understood – that is, when its meaning is understood. Allah Himself says:
…so give good news to My slaves, those who listen to the word and then follow the best of it…(Qur’an: 39.17-18)
Source: As-Suyuti’s Medicine of the Prophet
No doubt, there are multiple and varied ways to make children memorize the Glorious Qur'an but we should mention here that the factor of love and exhortation is the basic and fundamental factor which is counted in this issue after invocation, having trust in Allah, and showing humbleness to Him (Glory be to Him).
Furthermore, the parents are a good example for reaching this goal along with patience and forbearance, kind repetition, and nice follow-up. The parents are equal in that mission, however the mother is the main pillar in this great mission in the sight of Allah (may He be Exalted), here are some guidelines for help:
1- The blessing of listening to the Qur'an for pregnant women:
A number of scientists in USA mentioned that fetus is affected by all cases and conditions of the mother, whether joy or anger. When she reads loudly, the fetus gets affected of what she is reading, so how would be the case if she is reciting the Glorious Qur'an or listening to it frequently?! The comfort which the mother feels returns to her fetus with much goodness. This is confirmed by Dr. Muhammad Ratib An-Nabulsy by saying: "A pregnant mother who recites the Qur'an begets a child so much connected to it." [1]
2- Listening to and reciting the Qur'an during the nursing period.
Scientists mentioned that the baby gets affected much by the surrounding stuff, where the sense of hearing would have started in receiving the surrounding sounds and voices. So, a baby stores these sounds even if it is incapable of using them in this period [of nursing], but later on it uses them. If the nursing mother listens to the Qur'an during this period or recites it loudly, no doubt it will affect her baby very much and make the Qur'an easy for it. Therefore, we see that Allah (Glory be to Him) commands a mother to nurse her baby for two full years and destined that suckling is one of the baby's rights, as we see Allah (Glory be to Him) secures food and clothing for the mother and her baby during these two years as He says in the Glorious Qur'an: "The mothers shall give suck to their children for two whole years, (that is) for those (parents) who desire to complete the term of suckling, but the father of the child shall bear the cost of the mother's food and clothing on a reasonable basis." [Surat Al Baqarah: 233].

Monday, July 15, 2013

The Quran – The Final Revelation


What is the Qur’an?

The Word of God

The Qur’an is the literal word of God, The Almighty (Allah in Arabic), revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the Angel Gabriel.
“The revelation of The Book is from Allah, the Mighty, the Wise.” Qur’an 39:1

Guidance for Mankind

The Qur’an is “a guidance for mankind… and the distinction (between right and wrong).”Qur’an 2:185 It provides direction to help mankind judge between right and wrong, without which, man would surely be in loss.

The Final Revelation

The Qur’an is the last scripture revealed by Almighty Allah (God), confirming what little truth remains in parts of previous scriptures and refuting and correcting fabrications and additions which have crept into current day versions of such scriptures.
“O you who have been given the Scripture! Believe in what We have revealed confirming what is (already) with you…”Qur’an 4:47

How was the Qur’an Revealed?

The Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad (peace be upon him) and exists only in the language in which it was revealed – Arabic. However, the translation of the meaning of the Qur’an is available in many languages.
The Qur’an was not sent down as a complete book in one revelation; rather, the revelation spanned over a period of 23 years.
For this reason, it is essential to know in what circumstances the verses were revealed, in order to have a proper understanding of the Qur’an; otherwise, its teachings could be misunderstood.

Friday, July 12, 2013

The month of fasting and the Qur’an

Dear Readers, As  Salaamu Alaikum!


Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) Says (what means): {It was the month of Ramadan in which the Quran was [first] sent down as guidance for all people, having [in it] clear proofs of [Divine] guidance and the criterion.} [Quran 2:185]
Since that first Ramadan revelation, believers the world over and across history have drawn nearer to Allah Almighty, rejuvenated their faith, found their purpose in life, saved their souls from hellfire, and found the key to eternal happiness in Paradise with their Beloved Lord through the Quran.
Almost exactly 1,433 years ago, the Beloved Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) commenced his journey from Makkah to Madeenah and laid the foundations of the greatest community of believers ever to have lived. Among the foundations of that Community of men and women was a radiant and vibrant faith in Allah Almighty, unflinching love for His Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) and brotherhood and sacrifice for each other. These virtues were implanted in their souls by the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) through the guidance of the Quran. The foundation of that Community was the Quran. The Word of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala was what that blessed Community stood for.

Saturday, July 6, 2013

Benefits of reciting the Quran


Indeed to reflect on Allah’s verses is a form of worship that will draw one close to Allah Most High. This reflection is not a reckless and wandering one, rather it includes a study of the classical tafseer of the verses being pondered over, as this would fulfil Ibnul-Qayyim’s great advice, “Such as reflecting over a book which a person has memorised and he expounds it so that he may understand what its author intends by it.”
Indeed the Book of Allah is not a book like any other, it is the timeless Speech of Allah, not a created thing, the study guide for life and death and what comes after. Therefore it deserves a more careful study than anyone else’s speech. It necessitates that its reader return to the early narrations of those who witnessed its revelation and heard its explanation by the one deputed by Allah to rehearse and explain His Words to humanity (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam). For if one would try to ponder over the meanings of the verses without having done this study, then surely the filth of the time that he lives in and his ignorance of the correct application and understanding that the early Muslims had would cause him to understand some things not intended by Allah Most High, and therefore he would go astray, thinking to be worshipping Allah. So every sincere Muslim who hopes to earn Allah’s Love breciting and reflecting over Allah’s Book, then let him hold tight to the meanings explained by the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam), and those taught by the companions and their immediate followers, and the early scholars of Islam.
So dear brother and sister Muslim! Know that reciting and pondering over the Book of Allah, devoting your time regularly to its study and implementation has tremendous benefits in this life and the Next, so let us now look to just a few of them to attach ourselves more firmly to Allah’s Majestic Words. Each benefit stands as enough of an encouragement to shun any laziness we have and dedicate ourselves to the Qur’an.
1 - Reading and reflecting over the Qur’an fulfils an Islamic duty.
Indeed the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) summarised this Religion with his statement: “The Religion is naseehah (sincerity)!” So then Tameem ibn Aws, may Allah be pleased with him, then said, “We asked, ‘To whom?’” He said: “To Allah, HIS BOOK, His Messenger, the leaders of the people, and their common folk.” [Muslim] The sincerity that is due to the Book of Allah includes its regular recitation, learning the rules of tajweed and reciting it beautifully, learning about its tafseer and the reasons for its revelation, affirming that it is the Truth, the perfect Speech of Allah and not part of the creation, honoring it and defending it, abiding by the orders and prohibitions found in it, teaching it and calling to it. [See Jaami’ul-’Uloom wal-Hikam of Ibn Rajab Al-Hambalee] So by reading and reflecting over the Qur’an, one fulfills an obligation and is rewarded for that. Upon fulfilling this obligation, the Qur’an then becomes a proof for him on the Day of Judgment! And that is our second benefit we will take by embracing this Noble Book...

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Giving Priority to the Qur'an


Hudhayfah said:The Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam) related matters to us. I have seen one of them, and I am waiting for the other. He (sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam) informed us: "Trustworthiness was sent down in depths of the heart of the people, then they learnt it from the Qur'an, then they learnt it from the Sunnah" (2) 

Al-Haafidh Ibn Hajar (852H) said: "His (`azza wa jall) saying: 'then they learnt it from the Qur'aan, then they learnt it from the Sunnah' So it occurs in this narration with the repetition of "then", which contains and indication that they would learn the Qur'aan before learning the details of the sunnah. And what is meant by the details of the sunnah is anything that they would learn from Prophet (saallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam) whether it was obligatory or recommended." (3) 
Al-Maymoonee said:I asked Abu 'Abdullaah Imaam Ahmed which is more beloved to you, that I should I begin teaching my son the Qur'aan or the hadeeth He said: "No! The Qur'aan." I said: Shall I teach him all of it? He replied: "Unless that is difficult, in which case teach him some of it." Then. he said to me: "If he begins reciting first, then he will learn correct recitation and will persevere in it." (4)

Ibn Muflih said: "Upon this are the followers of Imaam Ahmad right up until our time." (5)

Ibn Taymiyyah (d. 718H) said: "As for seeking to memorize the Qur'an then this is to be given preference over many of the things that the people consider to be knowledge, but are -in reality - either totally useless, or having little benefit. It is also to be given precedence in learning especially by those who wish to acquire knowledge of the Deen, its principles and its particulars. Since what is prescribed for such a person at this time is that he should begin by memorizing the Qur'aan, as it is the foundation of the branches of knowledge of the deen. This is contrary to what is done by many of the people on innovation, in that one of them will preoccupy himself with superfluous parts of knowledge; such as kalaam (rhetorical speech) and argumentation; or very rare matters of differences; and blind following, which there is no need for; or very strange and rare ahaadeeth which are not established, nor of benefit; and many discussions do not establish proofs. And he abandons memorizing the Qur'aan which is more important than all of this." (6) 

Monday, July 1, 2013

Ramadhan activities


There is very strong link between Ramadhaan and the Tilaawat of the Qur’aan. Almost all Allah  great holy books were sent down in this  month. Similarly,  in this month the Qur’aan was brought down from  the  ‘lowhul  mahfoozh’  (preserved  tablet)  to  the  ‘samaaud  dunyaa’  (Earthly sky),  from where  it was  revealed bit by bit  to Rasulullah j  in a period of twenty three years. 
There is a great connection between the Qur’aan and the month of  Ramadhaan.  For  this  reason,  as  much  Tilaawat  of  the  Qur’aan  as  possible should be made during this month. Such was the habit of our  pious people of the past. Jibraeel  used to recite the whole Qur’aan  to  our  Nabi j  in  the month  of  Ramadhaan.  In  some  reports  it  is  stated that Rasulullah j used to recite and Jibraeel  used to listen. 
The Ulama’ have said that it is Mustahab to read Qur’aan in such  a manner that while one recites the other  listens. Thereafter, another  recites while others  listen. So recite  the Qur’aan as much as possible.  Whatever time remains thereafter should not be wasted. 
Rasulullah j drew our attention  to  four  things and advised  that  we should practice them as much as possible. They are the recitation  of  Kalimah  Tayibbah,  istighfaar,  begging  for  Jannah  and  asking  safety  from  Jahannam. Therefore,  it must  be  regarded  an  honour to spend as much time as possible reciting these. This will be  the  true  appreciation  of  the  teachings  of  Rasulullah j. What  is  so  difficult about keeping the tongue busy with the recitation of Durood  (salawaat)  or  ‘Laa  Ilaha  illallah’  while  being  engaged  in  our  daily  works? 
In the same Hadeeth, Rasulullah j said a few more things; Ramadhaan is the month of patience. So if great difficulty is experienced in fasting, one should bear it with patience. One should not complain as people are fond of doing during hot days. If by chance sehri is missed then too one should not complain. Similarly, should any difficulty or trial be experienced, one should bear it with patience; otherwise, these deeds may possibly be empty of barakah (blessings). When we avoid the worldly pleasures and give up oureating and drinking, then for the sake of Allah’s  pleasure what are  these difficulties. 

Sunday, June 30, 2013

Learning The Holy Quran From A Good Quran Tutor Online




Recitation of Holy Quran is the duty of each and every Muslim. This book contains the words of Almighty Allah. Learning to Recite the Holy Quran properly requires some effort. But with the advancement of technologies, there are now lots of programs that will help you in the recitation of this Holy Book. Now it has become possible for every person to learn, read and understand the Holy Quran by sitting at home. Various Online Quran Learning programs are available that are specifically designed for various users and a good Quran tutor online will help you in better and quick learning of Holy Quran. There are lots of qualified tutors that teach  Holy Quran with Tajweed.

The significance of learning Quran can be understood from the following verse of Holy Quran:
“The best among you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”
Learning Quran with Tajweed:
Meaning of the word Tajweed is to make better. It is necessary for all Muslims to apply proper rules of pronunciation during the recitations. This was done by the last messenger Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) and all his Muslim companions. There is a lot of audio and video material available for all those who wish to learn Holy Quran with Tajweed and it can be used for learning to recite the Holy Quran properly. There are lots of qualified tutors available which will help in correcting the mistake during the recitation.
Because of the advancement in technology, unavailability of the local tutors cannot stop any person from learning Holy Quran. Many male and female tutors are available that provide you LEARN QURAN ONLINE FREE

Saturday, June 29, 2013

What are you Missing if you don’t Understand the Quran

Dear Readers,
Assalam o Alaikum!

The Quran is a guide to humanity. Since none of us want to be misguided, it is paramount not only to read or recite the Quran, but to understand and implement it in our lives as well.
Following are the top 10 things you are missing every day in your life if you don’t understand the Quran:

1. The Purpose of Revelation

If you don’t understand Qur’an and keep on reading it, the very purpose of revelation is lost. Allah SWT says: “ (Here is) a Book which We have sent down unto you (O Muhammad!), full of blessings, that they may mediate on its Signs, and that men of understanding may receive admonition [38:29].”
How can we do that if we don’t understand the Qur’an! One cannot and does not carry translation always, especially while listening to it in Salah!

2. The Garden of Mind

The mind is like a garden. If we don’t sow flowers, weeds will grow. Even if we sow flowers, weeds will still grow. We will need to remove the weeds continuously.
Flowers are the Guidance and the weeds are satanic thoughts. Allah SWT sows flower seeds into our brain every time we listen to Qur’an, especially in Salah/Namaz. If we don’t water them (ponder), they will be wasted and weeds may grow.

3. The Objectives of Recitation

There are 5 objectives of Reading Qur’an:
  • to receive rewards from Allah;
  • to gain knowledge;
  • to take action based on what Allah SWT is asking us to do;
  • to cure our heart and mind; and
  • to talk to Allah SWT!
How can we achieve all of these, especially the last four, if we don’t understand the Qur’an.

4. The Cleaning of Heart

People know that Fajr is compulsory but very few come to Masjid. Why? Not because they don’t know but because their hearts are rusted. We have a major misconception that Qur’an is a book of commandments only. The verses that deal with commandments constitute less than 10% of the total verses. The rest 90% is for the heart and mind. The heart keeps rusting and deviating because of sins. We need de-rusting and re-alignment.
Adam (A) was asked not to go near the tree. Allah says: “but he forgot; and We did not find in him any determination.” We humans have these weaknesses. We have several fitnahs (trials) surrounding us. We need continuous reminders and warnings which come to us only through daily recitation and listening to the Qur’an. Allah says about the Qur’an: “a healing for the (diseases) in your hearts” [10:57]. Can there be a better cure than what Allah has prescribed for us?

5. The Strengthening of heart

The Qur’an was revealed to the prophet (PBUH) in pieces. “And those who disbelieve say: Why has not the Quran been revealed to him all at once? Thus, that We may strengthen your heart by it and We have arranged it well in arranging. [25:32]. Heart should be firm in belief to His promises and warnings. Continuous pondering of the Qur’an everyday during and after Salahs helps us strengthen our hearts.

6. Daily ‘Talk’ (Munajaat) with Allah SWT

Prophet Muhammed (PUBH) used to interact with the recitation. “And when he 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 Rubb, he sought (His) Refuge.” [Muslim].
Can we live without talking at least five minutes every day to our near and dear ones? Allah is most beloved to us. He loves us more than seventy times that of our mothers. Still we live without bothering as to what Allah SWT said today to us during Salah!

7. Live Guidance

Whatever we read or listen to the Qur’an, remember that it is a live guidance from Allah SWT to each individual when he or she listens to Qur’an. It is a HUGE loss only if one can appreciates the value of live guidance from Allah, our own Creator. A wise man can never neglect this.

8. Relationship with Allah SWT

There are different dimensions to the relationship with Allah – His Love, Sincerity, Trust in Him, Remembering Him directly and whenever we see His signs in creation, Pondering His creation and in His names, not complaining of Qadaa, etc. This relationship is strengthened over time. It requires slow and steady cooking with regular heat coming from Qur’an.

9. Qu’ranic Character

According to Aisha (R), “His (the Prophet, pbuh) morals were the Qur’an”. The Qur’an is theory and the Prophet’s life was practical demonstration of that theory (thee Qur’an). We need to study the Seerah of the Prophet pbuh and keep relating the verses that we study to his life. This is a project in itself and requires one to ponder the verses every day along with the Seerah of the Prophet, pbuh.

10. Qur’anic Vision

As a patient starts describing his problems, the doctor’s mind starts working on diagnosis and comes up with the relevant medicines. Similary, we come across many situations in our life. We should be able to see solutions in the Qur’an corresponding to these situations. Only through continuous pondering and relating it to the daily life, one can attain this vision.
Best wishes
GatewaytoQuran