RAMADHAN ZONE

AS'SALAMU ALAIKUM WA RAHMATU ALLAH WA BARAKATUH (MAY THE PEACE, MERCY AND BLESSINGS OF GOD BE UPON YOU) MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS...
LET US READ ABOUT THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMZAN.

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ALL PRAISE BELONGS TO ALLAH ALONE.. ALLAH ALONE IS THE ALL- KNOWER.

MAY ALLAH ALWAYS HELP US TO UNDERSTAND, FOLLOW AND PROPAGATE ISLAM.

MAY ALLAH FORGIVE ALL OUR SINS.
MAY ALLAH GIVE US ALL WHAT IS GOOD IN THIS WORLD AND IN THE HEREAFTER(PERMANENT LIFE AFTER DEATH)
AND SAVE US ALL FROM HELL FIRE. AAMEEN..

MAKE DUA FOR ALL.

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1.INTRODUCTION:

Ramadhan is a very important part of every Muslim’s life.
Ramadhan is the month of giving and mercy, and during this month Allah blesses the believers with forgiveness and great reward.
This is a time to stop and contemplate, to look inwards and out, it is a time to set our goals. We should ask ourselves what we want to achieve this month, - something we will carry into our futures.

Achievement is accomplished by change. ‘How’ and ‘what’ we change are as important to consider as ‘when’ we change. Ramadhan gives us a huge opportunity to improve ourselves and gain rewards for our actions.

Just consider how precious time is. Our time when used well can gain us much reward, but when wasted we lose something of unimaginable value.

Therefore, whoever is merciful and giving in Ramadhan, Allah will be even more Merciful and Giving towards them and will bestow upon them countless bounties and blessings.
All praises to Allah (SWT), Lord of the worlds. As revealed in the Glorious Qur’an, "Oh you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those who came before you that you may keep your duty to your Lord" 2:185.

There are many actions we can take during the month of Ramadhan which will benefit us immensely. One of these would be to take Sahoor (the pre-dawn meal) as there is great benefit in it. The greatest blessing of Sahoor may be that Allah engulfs those who partake in it with His Forgiveness, showers His Mercy on them, while His angels ask of Him to forgive and pardon them.

Reciting the Quran has much benefit as it was in this blessed month that the Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him).

“Verily! We have sent you (O Muhammad) with the Truth, a bearer of glad tidings and a warner; and there is not a nation but a warner has passed among them," The Holy Quran (35:24).

"Surely this Qur’an' guides to the way that is straightest and gives good tidings to the believers who do deeds of righteousness, that theirs shall be a great reward.” The Holy Quran (17 : 11).

The importance of the Qur’an cannot be presented in a few words. It is not just another book on the shelf, but it is the words of Allah, speaking to every one of us. It is direct contact with Allah Himself. This is what we should keep in mind when we read the Qur'an or think about it.

The Giving of charity also carries much blessing and the rewards, giving during the holy month will increase your reward immensely. Zakah does not only purify the property of the contributor but also purifies his heart from selfishness and greed.

The following shows us the importance of charity:

The Prophet (saas) said: 'Charity is a necessity for every Muslim'. He was asked: 'What if a person has nothing?' The Prophet(saas) replied: 'He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity'. The Companions asked: 'What if he is not able to work?' The Prophet (saas) said: 'He should help the poor and needy persons.' The Companions further asked 'What if he cannot do even that?' The Prophet (saas) said 'He should urge others to do good'. The Companions said 'What if he lacks that also?' The Prophet (saas)said
'They should stop themselves from doing evil. That is also charity.

Charity is not only giving money but following the above example will ensure you are giving charity as well as receiving Allah’s blessing.





2. SOME VERSES OF NOBLE QURAN



Surah Al Bakarah Ayah 184 (2: 184)

(Fast) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (With hardship), there is a ransom: the feeding of one n need (poor). But he that will give more, of his own free will, - it is better for him. And it is better for you that ye fast, if ye only knew.


Surah Al Bakarah Ayah 185 (2:185)

Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur-an, as a guide to mankind, also Clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.


Surah Al Bakarah Ayah 187 (2:187)

Permitted to you, on the night of the fasts, is the approach to your wives. They are your garments and ye are their garments. Allah knoweth what ye used to do secretly among yourselves; but He turned to you and forgave you; so now associate with them, and seek what Allah Hath ordained for you, and eat and drink, until the white thread of dawn appear to you distinct from its black thread; then complete your fast Till the night appears; but do not associate with your wives while ye are in retreat in the mosques. Those are Limits (set by) Allah: Approach not nigh thereto. Thus doth Allah make clear His Signs to men: that they may learn self-restraint.

Surah Al Imran Ayah 133 (3:133)

Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord and for a garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth prepared for the righteous.


Surah Hud Ayah 90 (11:90)

"But ask forgiveness of you Lord and turn unto Him (in repentance): for my Lord is indeed full of mercy and loving-kindness."


Surah At Tahrim Ayah 8 (66:8)

O ye who believe! Turn to Allah with sincere repentance: in the hope that your Lord will remove from you your ills and admit you to Gardens beneath which Rivers flow on the Day when Allah will not humiliate the Prophet and those who believe with him. Their Light will run forward before them and by their right hands while they say "Our Lord! Perfect our Light for us and grant us Forgiveness; for Thou have power over all things."



Surah Hud Ayah 52 (11:52)

"And O my people! ask forgiveness of your Lord and turn to Him (in repentance): He will send you the skies pouring abundant rain and add strength to your strength: so turn ye not back in sin!"


Surah Al Ahzab Ayah 35 (33:35)

For Muslim men and women, for believing men and women ,for devout men and women ,for true men and women ,for men and women who are patient and constant ,for men and women who humble themselves ,for men and women who give in charity, for men and women who fast (and deny themselves), for men and women who guard their chastity ,and for men and women who engage much in Allah's praise- for them has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward.

Surah Ibrahim Ayah 41 (14:41)

"O our Lord! Cover (us) with Thy Forgiveness me my parents and (all) Believers on the Day that the Reckoning will be established!"


Surah Hud Ayah 114 (11:114)

And establish regular prayers at the two ends of the day and at the approaches of the night: for those things that are good remove those that are evil: This sis a reminder to those who remember (their Lord):


Surah Ibrahim Ayah 40 (14:40)

"O my Lord! make me one who establishes regular Prayer and also (raise such) among my offspring O our Lord! and accept Thou my Prayer.”

Surah An Nisaa Ayah 110 (4:110)

If anyone does evil or wrongs his own soul but afterwards seeks Allah's forgiveness he will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.




3. HADITH


--The messenger of Allah (saws) reported in a hadith al-Qudsi that Allah (SWT) said: "All acts done by the sons of Adam are meant for him, except fasting. It is exclusively meant for Me, and I (alone) will reward him for it"
(Bukhari and Muslim)


--Abu Sa'eed Al-Khudri (raa) the Messenger of Allah (saas) said:
"Sahuur is a blessed meal, do not neglect it even if it is a mouthful of drink. For Allah and the Angels bless those who observe it." (Ahmed)


--Abu Hurairah (raa) relates the Messenger of Allah (saws) said when one Ramadan came:
"A blessed month has arrived. Observing it in fasting is mandated on you (the believers). During this month, the gates of Paradise will be opened and the gates of Hellfire will be closed. The evil ones (Shayaatin) will be handcuffed. In it there is one night, during which worship is better than worship in a thousand months. Whoever is denied its blessings has been denied the biggest blessing." (Ahmed, Nasaae, and Bayhaqi)


--It has been reported by the way of Abu Hurairah (raa) that the Prophet (saas) reported that Allah (SWT) said in a Hadith Al-Qudsi:
"All services of the son of Adam are for him except fasting. It is for Me, and I will reward him for it. Fasting is a shield. On the day you fast, do not use obscenity, nor yell at others, nor act ignorantly towards them. However, if anyone abuses you verbally or attempts to draw you to fight with him, say 'I am fasting' two times. The Prophet (saas) then states: I swore by the One (Allah) in Whose Hand is the soul of Muhammad, the breath of the faster is sweeter to Allah on the Day of Judgment than the scent of musk. The faster experiences enjoyment twice: he is pleased when he breaks his fast, and he is pleased when he meets his Maker" (Muslim)

--Abu Sa'id al Khudri (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: “Every servant of Allah who observes fast for a day in the way of Allah, Allah would remove, because of this day, his face farther from the Fire (of Hell) to the extent of seventy years' distance.” (Sahih Muslim)





--Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported:Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: “When there comes the month of Ramadan, the gates of mercy are opened, and the gates of Hell are locked and the devils are chained.”(Sahih Bukhari)

--Anas (raa) related that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him)said:
"Take your early morning meal for in that is a blessing." (Bukhari, Muslim)

--In a hadith related by Abu Hurairah (raa), the Messenger of Allah (saas) said: "He who spends the night in prayer on the Night of Power, as a sign of His faith, and seeking rewards from Allah, his previous sins will be forgiven." (Bukhari, Muslim)

--Buraydah ibn al-Hasib may Allah be pleased with him, reported:
Once when Bilal (raa) went in to visit Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) while he was having his morning meal he invited him to join him, and when Bilal replied that he was fasting, he (saas) said, "We are eating our provision and Bilal's superior provision is in Paradise. Did you know, Bilal, that the bones of one who fasts extol Allah and that the angels ask forgiveness for him as long as people eat beside him?" (Al-Tirmidhi)

--Anas ibn Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, reported:
Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said that when Laylat al-Qadr comes, Gabriel descends with a company of angels who invoke blessings on ever who is standing or sitting and remembering Allah, who is Great and Glorious. Then when their festival day comes, i.e. the day when they break their fast, Allah speaks proudly of them to His angels saying, "My angels, what is the reward of a hired servant who has fully accomplished his work?" They reply, "Our Lord, his reward is that he should be paid his wage in full." He says, "My angels, My male and female servants have fulfilled what I have made obligatory for them, and then have come out raising their voices in supplication. By My might, glory, honour, high dignity and exalted station, I shall certainly answer them." Then He says, "Return, for I have forgiven you and changed your evil deeds into good deeds." He said that they then returned having received forgiveness.
(Al-Tirmidhi )

--Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported:
When the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated that his people would be granted forgiveness on the last night in Ramadan and was asked whether it was Laylat al Qadr, he replied, "No, but a workman is paid his full wages only when he has finished his work." (Al-Tirmidhi)




4. IMPORTANCE OF QURAN

The Glorious Qur’an is the Book of Allah, the Most Gracious, Most Merciful, Who has promised to safeguard it from any violations in its purity, the most important and sacred book and the ultimate guidance for all. The Qur’an was revealed in the month of Ramadhan to the prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) by the angel Jibrail.

The Qur’an is a source of inspiration for us all and there are many ways in which the Qur’an can be implemented not only throughout Ramadhan but throughout our lives. Below are a few examples of how we could use Qur’an in our lives.

Listen to the Qur’an - this can be done in a number of ways at home. Listen to other members of the family reciting Qur’an, or put a tape on and listen to a recitation. While out and about you can listen in the car, or take a personal stereo player - but remember personal safety at all times.

How much time do we spend waiting for someone or something or in a queue? This time could be put to use, listening to a Qur’anic recitation . This will help you relax and make better use of your time.

Study and understand the Qur’an – this can be done on your own, or with a group of friends. You could set up a study circle which helps make studying easier. The circle could meet regularly, or just as a one off. Remember that during Ramadhan the rewards are increased.

Convey the message of the Qur’an – the Qur’an is useful for everyone. Conveying the message of Islam is compulsory upon all Muslims, and this can be done through the Qur’an, which is beautiful to read. Most translations contain an easy to follow guide.

Make use of the Qur’an in our lives - the Qur’an contains invaluable information that Muslims should use in their personal and communal matters, and at all levels of society.
The Qur’an will help guide us through all the situations in our lives.

Memorise verses of the Quran - Memorisation in Ramadan carries more reward than at any other time in the year. Be sure to check your memorised recitation by reciting it to a Qur’an teacher, or someone who has good knowledge of the Qur’an.

Increase your recitation of the Qur'an in Ramadan – Recitation during Ramadhan carries much reward, and extra recitation should be encouraged. During salah (obligatory prayer) make use of longer surah’s where you might previously have used shorter ones.

Perform Taraweeh prayers in congregation - The completion of the Qur’an takes place over the period of Ramadhan and there is much reward for praying in congregation.

Recite during the night – “Truly the rising by night is most potent for governing (the soul) and most suitable for (framing) the Word (of Prayer and Praise).” The Holy Quran 73:6. Reciting during the day is also beneficial, but night time recitation is easier as there are less distractions and noise.

It is important to look at the Qur’an relating to the verses regarding Ramadan so we can understand the essence of fasting.

Fasting for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill or on a journey the prescribed number (should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (with hardship) is a ransom the feeding of one that is indigent. But he that will give more of his own free will it is better for him and it is better for you that ye fast if ye only knew. THE HOLY QURAN 2 : 184

Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful. THE HOLY QURAN 2: 185

These ayat show us the mercy of Allah (SWT) whose mercy enables us to omit our fast when we are ill or travelling so the fast may not be a burden on us. It also allows us to take part in charity towards those less fortunate then ourselves so that we can appreciate what we have.

Here is a hadith which is narrated by Ibn 'Abbas:
“The Prophet was the most generous person, and he used to become more so (generous) particularly in the month of Ramadhan because Gabriel used to meet him every night of the month of Ramadhan till it elapsed. Allah's Apostle used to recite the Qur'an for him. When Gabriel met him, he used to become more generous than the fast wind in doing good”. Therefore let us also become generous by increasing the amount of Qur’an we recite in the month of Ramadhan.




5. DHIKR DURING RAMADAN

Ramadhan is a very special time for worship, both collectively as well as individually. While study circles, congregational prayers and other activities are carried out collectively there are also many opportunities for individual worship.


Dhikr (or Zhikr) is the remembrance and glorification of Allah in order to become closer to Him. Dhikr is practiced around the globe by Muslims who glorify and praise Allah. Dhikr can be done either silently in your heart, or audibly with a group of people, asking for forgiveness or praising the greatness of Allah.


If we look at our everyday lives we all, in some way or another, participate in Dhikr. Whether it is through a conscious effort after salah, or just at times of distress or happiness – we all feel the need to remember Allah. Dhikr is a form of worship that carries much reward.


Abu Hurairah reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said:“Allah, the Exalted and Glorious stated: I am near to the thought of My servant as he thinks about Me, and I am with him as he remembers Me. And if he remembers Me in his heart, I also remember him in My Heart, and if he remembers Me in assembly I remember him in assembly, better than his (remembrance), and if he draws near Me by the span of a palm, I draw near him by a cubit, and if he draws near Me by a cubit I draw near him by the space (covered by) two arms. And if he walks towards Me, I rush towards him.” (Hadith from Sahih Muslim & Bukhari)


Supplication (dua) is not only the continuous outpouring of a person’s heart before their Lord, but it is also an expression of their sense of nearness to Allah. We acknowledge the might and power of Allah as well as the grace and blessings we are given. If we could conceive how much a person supplicates, what he supplicates for, and the way that he supplicates, then we could start to understand how much love they have for Allah in their soul.


Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying:
"Whoever says: Lã 'ilãha 'illã 'allãhu wahdahu lã shareeka lahu, lahulmulku wa lahul hamdu wa huwa `alã kulli shay'in qadeerun (There is no 'ilãh except Allah, no partner does He have; his is the Kingdom, and to Him is all Praise, and He is ever-able to do everything.) 100 times
would get the reward of manumitting ten slaves, one hundred good deeds would be written for him, one hundred sins would be remitted from him, it would be a shield for him from the Shaytan that day till night,
and nobody would arrive with better than what he arrived with except for one that had done more than him.
and Whoever says, Subhãna 'allãhi wa bihamdihi
[Subhãna 'allah:- honored is Allah from all things unsuitable to Him i.e. Glorified is Allah. Wa bihamdihi:- and [I am] in celebration of his Praise.]
100 times a day, will be forgiven all his sins even if they were like the foam of the Sea." (Reported in Saheeh 'Al-Bukhãri and Saheeh Muslim)

This hadith shows us how by increasing our remembrance of Allah, we can increase the amount of reward we obtain. Dhikr does not have to be organised, or complicated. It is something which can be done quickly, and if done with sincerity of the heart it can have a huge positive effect. Dhikr can be done at any time, almost anywhere. Here are some verses from the Qur’an encouraging remembrance:

"Truly Allah leaves to stray whom He wills; but He guides to Himself those who turn to Him in penitence. Those who believe and whose hearts find satisfaction in the remembrance of Allah: for without doubt in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find satisfaction.” (13: 27-28)

“Bring your Rabb to remembrance deep in your soul with humility and in reverence without raising your voice, both in the mornings and in the evenings; and be not of those who are heedless.” (7:205 )

“Those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides, and meditate on the creation of the heavens and the earth. Then cry out:" Our Rabb! You have not created this in vain. Glory to You! Save us from the punishment of Fire.” (3:191)

Whatever we are doing, we can always remember and praise Allah. If we remember Allah in all our actions then we will be rewarded not only for the intention, but also for the act that is carried out.

NOTE:[Tahmeed is to say 'Al-hamdu lillãhi, Tahleel is to say Lã 'ilãha 'illã 'allãhu, and Tasbeeh is to say Subhana 'allãhi.,Takbeer is to say Allahu Akbar]


This short poem sums up how our actions can be part of Dhikr and how every part of the body praises Allah:

Dhikr of the eyes, which consists in weeping
Dhikr of the ears, which consists in listening
Dhikr of the tongue, which consists in praise
Dhikr of the hands, which consists in giving
Dhikr of the body, which consists in loyalty
Dhikr of the heart, which consists in fear and hope
Dhikr of the spirit, which consists of utter submission and acceptance.


6. LAYLATUL QADR


In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power: And what will explain to thee what the Night of Power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by God's permission, on every errand: Peace!...This until the rise of morn!
Surah 97 of The Holy Qur’an

The Holy Qur'an contains a short surah dedicated to Laylatul Qadr. Surah Al-Qadr is the 97th surah and consists of five verses. However, these short verses carry great meaning and guidance. They tell us all we need to know about the essence and spirit of Laylatul Qadr.

Laylatul Qadr falls sometime within the last 10 days of Ramadhan.

"Seek it in Ramadan in the last ten nights. For verily, it is during the odd nights, the twenty-first, or the twenty-third, or the twenty-fifth, or the twenty-seventh, or the twenty-ninth, or during the last night." Sahih Hadith Ahmad 5:318

Laylatul Qadr is the most blessed night. A person who misses it has indeed missed a great amount of good. If an individual wants to obey his Lord, increase the good deeds in his record and have all past sins forgiven, they should take part in Laylatul Qadr.

“Whoever stays up (in prayer and remembrance of Allah) on the Night of Qadr fully believing (in Allah’s promise of reward for that night) and hoping to seek reward (from Allah alone and not from people), he shall be forgiven for his past sins.” (Sahih Hadith Bukhari / Muslim)


We should strive to find this night, and then pass it in worship and obedience. If this is done for the sake of Allah, with sincerity, then all past sins will be forgiven. However, if a person misses out on worship during Laylatul Qadr they truly are a deprived person.

This night is full of reward and blessing and is equivalent to a thousand nights of worship. Anyone who takes part in Laylatul Qadr will have worshipped an equivalent of eighty three years and three months. It is as if a person has spent an entire lifetime in non-stop worship.

“The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.”
(NOBLE QURAN 97:3)

"Allah's Messenger, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, looked back at the previous communities and saw that his community lived for a much shorter period in comparison to them. He was concerned about how his community would be able to gain as many rewards as those of the previous communities. So when Allah the Exalted saw the concerns in the heart of His Beloved, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, then he, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, was given Laylatul-Qadr, which is more virtuous than a thousand months." (Imâm Mâlik, Muatta)

Worship during this night can take on many forms. Here are a few suggestions to help you through Laylatul Qadr:

• Plan ahead if you are working. If you are going to spend a night awake in worship, book the following day off.
• Take regular breaks during the night to avoid getting over-exhausted. Try switching between different forms of worship instead.
• Perform Itikaaf (seclusion in a mosque for worship) – If possible, take a vacation for the last 10 days of Ramadhan.. If you cannot spend all 10 days in Itikaaf, then do as many days as you can - even if it is only one day.
• Increase the recitation of the Qur'an, and reflect on the meaning of the verses, especially the verses used in Salah. This will help you concentrate.
• Increase Salah (prayer).
• Find out if there are any events organised, and take your family along.

Doing all of the above activities may be too much to do throughout the night but is far better than social gatherings and meaningless talk that we stay awake for.
If your Arabic is not very strong then there are many good English translations of Qur'an and Hadith, which can be used instead. Other useful reading might include books of tafsir (Qura’n commentary), books on the lives of the Prophets (upon whom be peace), and books of fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) as well as Du’a books.

The days of Laylatul-Qadr are an important time for worship, especially the last 10 days. We should pray sincerely from our hearts in order to be saved from the hellfire. This is a good opportunity not only to pray for ourselves but also for our fellow brothers and sisters, for if we can not do anything else then our prayers will help.

Ibn Abbas (RA) heard the Prophet (SAAWS) advising someone, saying, “Take advantage of five before five: Your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before you become occupied, and your life before your death.”

May Allah help us to purify our hearts, strengthen our faith, and enable us to meet every challenge, and overcome every difficulty in our lives. May Allah allow us to serve Him with sincerity in our work, study, professional, business, family and social lives. When the time comes for us finally to return to Him, may Allah admit us to the companionship of those whom He loves.


FIQH OF FASTING


7. THE ARRIVAL OF RAMADAN

This event is confirmed by sighting the new moon, even if it is seen by only one just person, or by the passage of thirty days in the immediately preceding month of Sha'ban.


Ibn 'Umar (R) said: "The people were looking for the new moon and when I reported to the Messenger of Allah that I had seen it, he fasted and ordered the people to fast." This is related by Abu Dawud, al-Hakim, and Ibn Hibban, who declared it to be sahih.


Abu Hurairah (R) reported that the Prophet (saas) instructed:
"Fast after you have seen it [the new crescent] and end the fast [at the end of the month] when you see it. If it is hidden from you, then wait until the thirty days of Sha'ban have passed."
This is related by al-Bukhari and Muslim.


8. ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF FASTING - THE INTENTION

Allah instructs in the Qur'an: "And they are ordained nothing else than to serve Allah, keeping religion pure for Him." The Prophet (saas), upon whom be peace, said: "Actions are judged according to the intention behind them, and for everyone is what he intended."

The intention must be made before fajr and during every night of Ramadan. This point is based on the hadith of Hafsah (R), that the Prophet (sal) said: "Whoever does not determine to fast before fajr will have no fast" (that is, it won't be accepted). This is related by Ahmad, an-Nasa'i, at-Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud, and Ibn Majah. Ibn Khuzaimah and Ibn Hibban have classified it as sahih.

The intention is valid during any part of the night. It need not be spoken, as it is in reality an act of the heart, which does not involve the tongue. It will be fulfilled by one's intention to fast out of obedience to Allah and for seeking His pleasure.
If one eats one's pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) with the intention of fasting and to get closer to Allah by such abstinence, then one has performed the intention. If one determines that one will fast on the next day solely for the sake of Allah, then one has performed the intention even if a pre-dawn meal was not consumed.

According to many of the jurists, the intention for a voluntary fast may be made at any time before any food is consumed. This opinion is based on 'Aishah (R)’s hadith: "The Prophet came to us one day and said: 'Do you have any [food]?' We said, 'No.' He said: 'Therefore, I am fasting."
This is related by Muslim and Abu Dawud.


9. ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF FASTING; WHO MUST FAST

All scholars agree that fasting is obligatory upon every sane, adult, healthy Muslim male who is not traveling at that time. As for a woman, she must not be menstruating or having post-natal bleeding. People who are insane, minors, and those who are traveling, menstruating, or going through post-natal bleeding, and the elderly and breast-feeding or pregnant women do not need to observe the fast.


For some, the fast is not obligatory at all, for example, the insane. As for young people, their parents or guardians should order them to fast.
Some are to break the fast and make up for the missed days of fasting at a later date, while others are to break the fast and pay a "ransom" (in which case, they are not obliged to make up for the days they missed).



10. A HEALTHY RAMADHAN


One of the miracles of Islam is the month of Ramadhan, a month in which we can cleanse ourselves, not only spiritually, but physically as well. Ramadhan is a time of worship, but physical ailments can sometimes cause us to lose our spiritual focus. Here is some useful advice on how to avoid common problems that occur during Ramadhan.


'Detox' yourself
If you are in the habit of drinking several cups of tea, coffee or other drinks that contain caffeine, start cutting back one to two weeks before Ramadhan begins. Tea and coffee contain caffeine which is addictive and can cause severe headaches on withdrawal.

If you are a smoker, start cutting down the amount you smoke one to two weeks before Ramadhan. Ramadhan is an ideal month to stop smoking completely.



Ramadhan Diet
During Ramadhan, your diet should not differ very much from your normal diet and should be as simple as possible. The ideal diet should maintain your normal weight, neither decreasing nor increasing it during the month. However, if you are overweight, Ramadhan is an ideal time to lose weight.

To prepare for a long day of fasting, slow-digesting foods and foods with lots of fibre are better than fast-digesting foods. Slow-digesting foods last between 8 and12 hours, while fast-digesting foods last only for 2 to 4 hours.

- Slow-digesting foods contain grains and seeds. Examples are barley, wheat, oats, millet, semolina, beans, lentils, etc.; whole meal flour; whole meal pasta; unpolished rice. They are also known as complex carbohydrates.

- Fibrous foods contain bran, examples are cereals; whole wheat or whole meal flour; grains and seeds, such as beans and lentils; vegetables such as green beans, peas, marrow, spinach, beetroot leaves which are rich in iron, etc.; fruit with skin, dried fruit, especially dates, dried apricots, figs, prunes, etc.; nuts.

- Fast-digesting foods contain refined carbohydrates such as sugar, white flour, white rice, white pasta, etc.

The ideal diet is well-balanced, containing foods from each food group – fruits, vegetables, meat, chicken or fish, bread, cereals and dairy products.


What to Eat
- Eating complex carbohydrates for suhur will help you fast without feeling too hungry. Examples of complex carbohydrates are muesli, bran-rich cereals, whole meal or brown bread, beans, lentils, etc.;
- Soups can be an excellent source of slow-burning food and protein, especially if made from barley and wheat;
- Dates are an excellent source of sugar, fibre, carbohydrates, potassium and magnesium;
- Almonds are rich in protein and fibre and are not fatty. Ground almonds and milk make a healthy drink;
- Bananas are a good source of carbohydrates, potassium and magnesium;
- Eat oven-grilled samosas rather than fried samosas.


What to Drink
Drink as much water or fruit juices as possible between iftar and bedtime so that your body can adjust fluid levels for the next day.


What to Avoid
- Fried and fatty foods should be avoided, they cause indigestion, heartburn, weight problems and blood circulation problems;
- Spicy foods and sauces;
- Foods containing too much sugar and refined carbohydrates;
- Overeating at suhur and iftar;
- Caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee, fizzy drinks, etc.;
- Smoking.





COMMON HEALTH PROBLEMS

Constipation
Constipation can cause piles (haemorrhoids), fissures (painful cracks in the anal canal) and indigestion with a bloated feeling.

Causes: Eating too many refined carbohydrates, drinking too little water and not eating enough fibre.

Remedy: Eat more fibre and complex carbohydrates, drink more water, use bran for baking, and use brown flour when making bread.

Indigestion and Wind
Causes: Overeating causes indigestion, as does eating too much fried and fatty food, spicy food and food that produces wind, for example, eggs, cabbage, lentils, beans, carbonated drinks.

Remedy: Do not overeat, and drink adequate amounts of water and fruit juices. Avoid fried and fatty foods. Add thymol or celery seeds to lentils and beans.

Lethargy (Low blood pressure)
Symptoms: Weakness, tiredness, lack of energy, dizziness, especially when getting up from a lying or sitting position, a pale appearance and feeling faint. This tends to occur at the end of the day when you need more energy for worship.

Causes: Not drinking enough water, not enough salt in the diet, not eating enough before the fast begins and at iftar.

Remedy: Increase fluid and salt intake. Eat enough to sustain you through the next day. Drink at least one litre of water between iftar and bedtime.

Caution: If you have high blood pressure you may need your medication adjusted for the month of Ramadhan. Diuretics should be avoided.

Headaches
Causes: Caffeine and tobacco withdrawal, doing too much during the day, hunger, stress, lack of sleep etc.

Remedy: Reduce or eliminate caffeine intake one or two weeks before Ramadhan. Herbal teas and decaffeinated coffee can help. Reorganise your schedule so that you have enough time to perform your usual chores and tasks, and make sure you have enough rest.


Low Blood Sugar
Symptoms: Weakness, dizziness, tiredness, poor concentration, trembling, inability to do physical activities, headaches and palpitations.

Causes: Excessive sugary foods, for example, refined carbohydrates especially in the morning before the fast begins (suhur).

Remedy: Reduce the amount of sugary foods and drinks you consume, especially for suhur. Eat more complex carbohydrates. This applies people who are not diabetics. Diabetics will need to adjust their medication during Ramadhan. Please consult your doctor.

Muscle Cramps
Causes: Not enough calcium or magnesium in the diet.

Remedy: Eat foods rich in above minerals, for example fruit and vegetables, dairy products, meat, dried fruit and dates.

Caution: If you are on medication for high-blood pressure or are prone to kidney stones, consult your doctor.

Heartburn, Gastritis, Hiatus Hernia and Peptic Ulcers
Heartburn comes as a burning pain in the stomach area and under the ribs radiating up the chest to the throat. Increased levels of acid in an empty stomach during Ramadhan can aggravate heartburn and ulcers.

Causes: Spicy foods, especially sauces, can cause this, as well as coffee, carbonated drinks, and fatty and fried foods.

Remedy: Avoid all the above foods. Do not overeat. Have a few small meals instead of one big meal, eat a little after iftar and another snack after the tarawih prayer for example.

Medication is available to control acid levels in the stomach. These should be taken daily for the whole month of Ramadhan.

Kidney Stones
Kidney stones may not be noticed for months or even years after they are formed.

Causes: Some people are prone to produce stones in the kidney. Even if you are not prone, not drinking enough liquids to flush out the kidneys can cause stones to form.
Remedy: Drink lots of water between iftar and bedtime. If you are prone to kidney stones you must also decrease the amount of calcium you eat by avoiding calcium-rich foods such as dairy products.

Joint Pains
Causes: The extra prayers of Ramadhan can often increase the pressure on the knee joints. In the elderly and those suffering from arthritis, this may result in pain, stiffness, swelling and discomfort.

Remedy: Lose weight so that your knees do not have to carry extra load. Exercise your lower body before Ramadhan by walking 30 to 45 minutes three times a week so that your knees will be prepared for the additional strain.
Being physically fit will help you perform your prayers with ease.

[Source: Dr. Farouk Haffejee ,Islamic Medical Association of South Africa – Durban]

11. RAMADHAN IN HISTORY

The Battle of Badr

In these blessed days, the month of Ramadan, we remember the battle of Badr, which took place in the seventeenth of Ramadan, the second year of Hijrah. The battle plays a great role in the Islamic history as it was to determine the destiny of worshipping Allah on earth, and it was the first of a series of battles later. Muslims were not ready for such a war, they were only three hundreds and thirteen fighters, armed with a few weapons, seventy camels and two horses whereas the disbelievers were nine hundreds and fifty, armed with many weapons, seven hundreds camels, and hundred horses. Yet, Muslims decided to go for the battle with great persistence.

One could wonder how did those Muslims were encouraged to battle in such a critical situation and without hesitation?

It is sincere faith, relying on Allah and entrusting matters to Him. They turned to Allah for aid, implored Him with deep trust that He would never disappoint them. Allah, who never breaks His promise, sent them angels to fight alongside them and it was a great victory.

Achieving victory in war needs preparation, well training and providing weapons, such causes of victory have to be well regarded by Muslims with complete reliance on Allah, Lord of the Universe. Yet there are other causes that man can not interfere in, but are only caused by the Divine Decree, like weather conditions, rain, snow wind, and cloud; all this has great effect on the warfare Besides, men’s hearts are in the hands of their Creator; that’s faith is an essential key to victory, but it is controlled by Allah [swt
Battle of Az-Zallaqah in the Month of Ramadan

In the blessed month of Ramadan, in 479, A.H. broke out the famous battle of Az-Zallaqah between Muslims and European armies. Az-Zallaqah is one of the lands of Andalusia [now Spain], near Cordova. The battle ended with a brilliant victory for the Muslim forces and humiliating defeat for the Europeans. That battle broke out when king Azfounch, Alfounso VI, ruler of the Kashtala, threatened Al-Mu`tamid Ibn Ibad, Muslim ruler in Andalusia, that he would occupy the city of Cordova.

Al-Mu`tamid decided to turn to Yousef Ibn Tashfeen, ruler of Morocco, for aid though his men warned him that the he might aspire the latter to invade Andalusia. Yet Al-Mu`tamid replied with his famous statements: “To breed camel is much better than to breed pigs”. By this he meant that it is better for him to be occupied by Muslims and breed their camels in deserts than to live under the rule of the European king and breed his pigs. In fact Tashfen did not hesitate to help his Muslim brothers, and hastened to respond for their call. Both rulers met and began their mission to save their lands from the hands of the tyrants hoping it to be purely for Allah’s sake.

Al-Azfounsh tried to entrap the Muslims leaders. He sent for them assuring them that they would be no battle on the blessed days of Friday and Sunday. It was clear for Muslims that it was only a trap and decided to make their preparations. Their guesses came to be true for on the night of Friday, the enemies’ forces began their fierce attacks against Muslims. The two forces met in a dreadful fight, where victory seemed to be in the beginning for the side of the enemies and Al-Mu`tamid was severely wounded. Yet Allah never breaks His promise as the course of the battle turned upside down and Tashfeen’s forces began to appear participating in the battle with firm steadfastness and courage. Undoubtedly the battle ended as it used to be with the brilliant victory for Muslims.


The Mission of `Ali Ibn Abu Talib and Khalid Ibn Al-Walid in Yemen

Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, sent `Ali Ibn Abu Talib and Khalid Ibn Al-Walid to Yemen in Ramadan 10 A.H.

Al-Hafiz Al-Bayhaqi narrated on the authority of Abu Is-haq that Al-Bara' said that Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, sent Khalid to people of Yemen to call on them to Islam.


Al-bara' said: I was one of those who went with Khalid and we stayed amongst people there for six months propagating Islam, but nobody answered, so Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, sent us `Ali Ibn Abu Talib and asked him to send Khalid back with his group, unless someone would like to stay. Actually I opted for staying.

After `Ali came we went to the Yemenis and they gave us warm reception. `Ali then led us in a prayer. After that he organized us all in one line and started to read to us Prophet Muhammad’s letter. At hearing the letter all members of the tribe of Hamadan embraced Islam.

`Ali then sent the news of Hamadan’s embracing Islam to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him. On hearing that the Prophet knelt down and prostrated for Allah, showing gratefulness to Him, and he raised his head repeating: “Peace be upon Hamadan, Peace be upon Hamadan.”

Al-Bayhaqi also said that this incident was narrated by Al-Bukhari, but in a shorter narration and from another source.


12. THE PEOPLE YOU HELPED LAST RAMADHAN

Ibn Abbas (r) described the generosity of the Prophet (s) saying: The Messenger of Allah was the most generous of all the people, and he used to reach the peak of his generosity in the month of Ramadhan.

Last year 800,000 people benefited from your generosity during Ramadhan. Islamic Relief staff in 20 countries around the world distributed food packs on your behalf. From Mali to Indonesia, the poor received packs of food containing rice, oil, lentils, sugar and millet. With your help we can distribute even more this year.

The following DATA shows how much food Islamic Relief distributed by country: Country AND Number of people helped

Africa
Chad
80,000 Sudanese refugees in Chad who fled fighting in Sudan's Darfur region received packs of dates during Ramadhan.

Mali
99,241 villagers, nomads, widows and the handicapped received packs of millet, sugar, macaroni and oil.

Sudan
Around 170,000 people in Sudan, including those displaced by the conflict in Darfur, received packs of rice, lentils, beans, sugar, oil and dates.

southern Sudan
8,000 people in southern Sudan received packs of rice, sugar, maize and oil for Ramadhan. Among those who benefited from the distribution were many of the unemployed, refugees and single mothers.

South Africa
12,000 of the poorest people in South Africa and Zimbabwe were given packs of maize, flour, rice, beans, Soya, sugar and oil.


Asia

Afghanistan
57,000 of some of the poorest people – especially widows and orphans – received packs of flour, oil, rice and dates.

Bangladesh
73,000 old people, widows, orphans and the destitute received packs of rice, peas, sugar, lentils, and oil.

China
5,500 poor families in the Muslim provinces of Gansu, Linxia, Monigou, Manisigou and Beiling received food packs.

India
8,600 poor people across India, from Gujurat to Tamil Nadhu, received packs of wheat, rice, pulses, oil and sugar.

Indonesia
15,764 of the poorest people in Indonesia received packs of millet, sugar, rice, macaroni and oil.

Kashmir
20,625 people in the conflict zone of Kashmir received packs of wheat, lentils, oil and sugar.

Pakistan
22,857 people in the drought-prone areas of Balochistan and the Punjab received much-needed packs of wheat, lentils, oil and sugar.


Europe

Albania
14,065 poor people, orphans and attendees of Islamic Relief's community training centres received packs of wheat, rice, oil, macaroni, sugar and beans.

Bosnia
9,046 needy people – orphans, widows, poor families – received packs of sugar, beans, oil and flour.

Chechnya
12,679 displaced people in Ingushetia, Grozny and rural Chechnya received packs of sugar, rice, wheat, macaroni, tinned beef, canned fish and canned milk.

Kosova
12,000 people in Kosova – returnees, orphans, displaced people, refugees, aged, and the sick – received packs of soup noodles, beans, some vegetable broth and a pack of dates.

Middle East
Egypt
21,850 needy people, mainly widows, orphans and impoverished families, received packs of rice, sugar, flour, ghee, macaroni and oil.

Iraq
50,000 people across Iraq, from Mosul in the north to Basra and Karbalah in the south, received chicken, oil, tomato puree, and eggs.

Palestine
126,700 Palestinians received packs of rice, sugar, lentils, beans, halva, dates, tomato puree and oil

Yemen
5,357 people in Yemen received food packs. The distributions targeted the unemployed and single mothers.

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