Abu Dharr Al-Ghifariy[radhiallaahu anhu]   In the ninth year of Hijra, the Master was leading an expedition to Tabuk. One evening as the army was encamping, people saw someone trudging on, with baggage on his back. "Who could this fellow be, coming on foot, all by himself?" remarked some of the men. "It must be Abu Dhar," said the Master. People looked carefully and shouted out, "O Messenger of Allah! surely this is Abu … [Read more...]

Rajab: A Momentous History There are momentous times in the history of all peoples. Momentous days, weeks and months. The Muslims are no exception. To the contrary, Islamic history overflows with events and occurrences worthy of the mention, and indeed worthy of remembrance. Such comes with no surprise given the fact that the Islamic civilisation brought a new dawn to the world of the 7th century, as it established itself in the Middle East … [Read more...]

    Imam Ibn al-Qayyim (RA) On Khushoo' Allaah, Most High, says, "Has not the time come for the hearts of those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah - Islamic Monotheism) to be affected by Allah's Reminder (this Quran), and that which has been revealed of the truth, lest they become as those who received the Scripture [the Taurat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)] before (i.e. Jews and Christians), and the term was prolonged for … [Read more...]

Imam Malik (RA) Teaches A Lesson In Humility   Eid had arrived and the takbeer and tahleel echoed through the streets of Madeenah. The Ameer of Madeenah, 'Abdul Malik Ibn Saalih (رحمة اللہ علیه), emerged boastfully clad in armour and surrounded by guards and flags. When Imam Malik (رحمة اللہ علیه) noticed this, he displayed his displeasure and remarked, "To Allaah we belong and to Him is our return! Nabi (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and the … [Read more...]

Imam Ahmad's (RA) Respect For Imam Shafi'ee (RA)   Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal رحمه الله says: "I haven't slept for the last 30 years without having supplicated for Imam Shafi'ee and seeking forgiveness for him." 'Abdullah رحمه الله, the son of Imam Ahmad رحمه الله says: "I asked my father, 'What type of person was Imam Shafi'ee? For I hear you supplicating a lot for him.' He replied, 'O son! Imam Shafi'ee was like the sun to this world, … [Read more...]

True Worth of Worldly Empires   Haroon as-Rasheed رحمه الله, the Khaleef of the Muslims, requested the righteous Ibn Simak رحمه الله for some advice. Ibn Simak رحمه الله noticed that Haroon ar-Rasheed رحمه الله had a glass of water in his hand and asked, "Ameerul Mu'mineen, if you were deprived of the bounty of drinking water, would you be prepared to exchange your entire kingdom for it?" "Yes, I will certainly be happy to do so," … [Read more...]