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The First Maktab in South Africa –1793

On the 06 April 1780, a prince by the name of Imaam Abdullah ibnul Qadhi, famously known as Tuan Guru was brought to the Cape of Good Hope as a prisoner of the Dutch. He was imprisoned at Robbin Island for fighting against the Dutch Rule in Indonesia. He hailed from Tidore in the Ternate Islands of Indonesia. His lineage traces up to Sayyidinah Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

In prison he wrote a few copies of the Qur-aan Shareef from memory and also authored a book called “Ma’rifatul Islam wal Imaan”, a book on Islamic Fiqh and Aqaaid. This shows the calibre of a Haafiz and an Aalim he was.

After spending 13 years in prison, he was released in the year 1793. He then went to live in Dorp Street, Cape Town.

Imaam Abdullah’s first concern when he was released was the establishment of a Madrasah and the building of a Masjid. He immediately established a Madrasah in a warehouse in Dorp Street which was the very first maktab established in South Africa. There were no specific teaching times as he spent the entire day teaching adults and children. This Maktab / Madrasah became the means of establishing Islam in South Africa as well as spreading Deen throughout our country.

It was for this reason that he gained the title “Tuan Guru” which means “Mister Teacher” in the Indonesian language.

In the year 1794 the government gave some allowance to the Muslims to build a masjid. Tuan Guru wasted no time and converted the Madrasah into a Masjid which became famously known as the Awwal Masjid, the very first masjid established in South Africa.

This Masjid is still standing in Bo-Kaap and a copy of the Qur-aan Shareef which was written by Tuan Guru in the prison of Robbin Island is still preserved in this Masjid.

Ta’limi Board (KZN)

10 Muharram 1445

bilal2023-07-29T06:33:11+00:00July 29th, 2023|Categories: Articles|

Muharram & Aashura

The first month in the Islamic Year is the month of Muharram and the last month is the month of Zul Hijjah. The Islamic year has approximately 355 days. The Islamic calendar is based on the movement of the moon in the sky. When the new crescent is sighted, this means that the new month has commenced.

Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, “After the fasts of Ramadhaan, the best fasts are during the month of Muharram.” It is reported from Ibn Abbaas (radiyallahu anhuma) that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: “The one who observes the fast of the day of Arafah, two years of his (minor) sins will be forgiven and the one who fasts during the month of Muharram, for each day that he fasts, he will receive the reward of fasting for an entire month.”

FASTING IN MUHARRAM

Before fasting became compulsory in the month of Ramadhaan, the fast of the 10th of Muharram was compulsory. This day is known as “The Day of Aashura”. When Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) made Hijrat to Madinah Munawwarah, he noticed the Jews in Madinah fasting on this day. When he asked them why they were fasting on this day, they replied that this was the day when Allah Ta’ala saved Moosa (alayhis salaam) and the Banu Israa’eel (the followers of Hadhrat Moosa alayhis Salaam) from the cruelty and oppression of Fir’oun (the wicked king of Egypt) and his people. Allah Ta’ala destroyed Fir’oun and his army by drowning them in the Red Sea and He saved and protected Hadhrat Moosa (alayhis salaam) and his people. When Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) heard this, he said, “We are closer to Moosa (alayhis salaam) than you.” He then instructed the Sahaabah to fast on this day and ordered them to encourage their children also to fast. The Sahaabah used to make toys for their children out of wool and if any child felt hungry and cried for food, then they kept them busy with these toys until the time of Iftaar.

OPPOSING THE JEWS

This remained the practice of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and the Sahaabah till the end of his life. In the 11th year of Hijri, after the fast of Aashura, before Rasulullah (aallallahu alayhi wasallam) passed away, he commanded the Sahaabah (radhiallahu anhum) to oppose the Jews and to add another day of fasting together

with the tenth. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said that if he lived till the following year, he would fast for two days; either the 9th and 10th or the 10th and 11th of Muharram. To fast on these days is optional and encouraged.

The lesson we learn from this is that we should always oppose the non-Muslims in their ways. As Muslims we are different from the rest of the world. We have our own way of dressing, eating, sleeping, etc. We follow the way of life of our beloved Rasulullah (sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) and not the way of his enemies.

SPENDING ON ONE’S FAMILY

Besides fasting, we should buy some extra food for our family on the day of Aashura. Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (radiyallahu anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “Whoever spends freely upon his family on the day of Aashura, Allah Ta`ala will bless him with plentiful provisions for an entire year.” No other actions were done by Rasulullah (Sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) or the Sahaabah on this blessed day. Therefore, all other practices which are regarded as acts of Ibaadah and virtues of Aashoorah will be without any benefit or reward, but will be a source of sin and punishment. May Allah Ta’ala protect us from such actions. Aameen

bilal2023-07-24T16:11:21+00:00July 24th, 2023|Categories: Articles|

Aamaal-e-Saalihah (Good Deeds) most beloved to Allah

عَنِ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ رَضِيَ اللّٰهُ عَنْهُمَا قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُوْلُ اللّٰهِ صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ: مَا مِنْ أَيَّامٍ الْعَمَلُ الصَّالِحُ فِيْهِنَّ أَحَبُّ إِلَى اللّٰهِ مِنْ هَذِهِ الْأَيَّامِ الْعَشَرَةِ قَالُوْا يَا رَسُوْلَ اللّٰهِ وَلَا الْجِهَادُ فِيْ سَبِيْلِ اللّٰهِ؟ قَالَ وَلَا الْجِهَادُ فِيْ سَبِيْلِ اللّٰهِ إِلَّا رَجُلٌ خَرَجَ بِنَفْسِهِ وَمَالِهِ فَلَمْ يَرْجِعْ مِنْ ذَلِكَ بِشَيْءٍ . رَوَاهُ التِّرْمِذِىُّ

Hadhrat Ibn Abbaas radiyallahu anhu narrates that Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam said; “There are no days wherein good deeds are more beloved to Allah Ta’ala than on these ten days [of Zul Hijjah]. [The Sahaabah M] enquired, ‘O Rasulullah, not even Jihaad in the path of Allah.’ He H replied, ‘Not even Jihaad in the path of Allah except for that person who went out with his life and his wealth and did not return.’” [Tirmizi #757]

Fasting and staying awake at night in Ibaadah

عَنْ أَبِيْ هُرَيْرَةَ رَضِيَ اللّٰهُ عَنْهُ قَالَ قَالَ رَسُوْلُ اللّٰهِ صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ: مَا مِنْ أَيَّامٍ أَحَبُّ إِلَى اللّٰهِ أَنْ يُتَعَبَّدَ لَهُ فِيْهَا مِنْ عَشْرِ ذِي الْحِجَّةِ يَعْدِلُ صِيَامُ كُلِّ يَوْمٍ مِنْهَا بِصِيَامِ سَنَةٍ وَقِيَامُ كُلِّ لَيْلَةٍ مِنْهَا بِقِيَامِ لَيْلَةِ الْقَدْرِ . رَوَاهُ التِّرْمِذِيُّ

Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah radiyallahu anhu narrates that Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam said; “There are no days wherein Allah Ta’ala loves that He be worshipped, more than the first ten days of Zul Hijjah. Fasting on one day (in these ten days) equals to the fasting of one year and staying awake at night [in ibaadah] equals to staying awake in Ibaadah on the night of Qadar.” [Tirmizi # 758]

From this Hadith we understand the importance of dedicating our time and effort during these days in the ibaadah (worship) of Allah Ta’ala. Who has the ability of fasting for so many years? If a Muslim makes an effort to fast on these mubaarak (blessed) days, he will receive the reward of fasting for so many years.

We try our best to find Laylatul Qadar in the last ten days of the mubaarak month of Ramadhaan. People all over the world sit in I’tikaaf with the hope of finding this Mubaarak night. At the end of Ramadhaan discussions ensue as to which night of Ramadhaan they felt was Laylatul Qadar. However, the exact night of Laylatul Qadar is known only to Allah Ta’ala. In the above mentioned Hadith, Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam is clearly telling us that Ibaadah done on these ten nights equals to the Ibaadah performed on Laylatul Qadar. How unfortunate will we be if we do not take advantage of this golden opportunity and gain great sawaab. May Allah Ta’ala bless us with the Taufeeq (ability) of spending our time profitably in these ten days. Aameen.

Zikr of Tasbeeh, Tahmeed, Takbeer and Tahleel

Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam has encouraged us in these days to recite Tasbeeh (Subhanallah), Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah), Tahleel (Laa-ilaha illallah) and Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) in abundance.[1]

In these ten days one should, as far as possible, keep the zikr of the third kalimah on his tongue. Recite this zikr as much as possible. Whilst walking, working, driving, lying down, etc. keep on reciting this kalimah. You will be rewarded immensely for this.

Clipping of nails and trimming of hair

عَنْ أُمِّ سَلَمَةَ رَضِيَ اللّٰهُ عَنْهَا قَالَتْ: قَالَ رَسُوْلُ اللّٰهِ صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ: إِذَا دَخَلَتِ الْعَشْرُ وَأَرَادَ أَحَدُكُمْ أَنْ يُضَحِّيَ فَلَا يَمَسَّ مِنْ شَعْرِهِ وَبَشَرِهِ شَيْئًا . رَوَاهُ مُسلم

Hadhrat Umm-e-Salamah radiyallahu anha reports that Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam said: “When the ten days [of Zul Hijjah] commence and any of you intend to make Qurbaani, then he should not remove his hair or trim his nails.” [Muslim: # 1977]

To practice on this Hadith, one should clip his nails and remove his hair before the crescent of Zul Hijjah is sighted. Thereafter, for the ten days of Zul Hijjah, he should neither trim his hair nor clip his nails until he has completed performing his Qurbaani. This act according to the Fuqahaa has been declared as Mustahab.

Fasting on the 9^th (Day of Arafah)

عَنْ أَبِيْ قَتَادَةَ رَضِيَ اللّٰه عَنْهُ قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُوْلُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَ سَلَّمَ صِيَامُ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ إِنِّيْ أَحْتَسِبُ عَلَى اللهِ أَنْ يُّكَفِّرَ السَّنَةَ الَّتِيْ قَبْلَهُ وَالَّتِيْ بَعْدَهُ وَ فِيْ رِوَايَةٍ اَنَّ رَسُوْلَ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَ سَلَّمَ قَالَ مَنْ صَامَ يَوْمَ عَرَفَةَ غُفِرَ لَهُ سَنَةٌ أَمَامَهُ وَسَنَةٌ بَعْدَهُ

Hadhrat Abu Qatadah radiyallahu anhu narrates that Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam said, “One who fasts on the day of Arafah, I have hope in Allah Ta’ala that He will forgive his sins of the previous year as well as his sins of the next year.” [Tirmizi # 749]

In this Hadith Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam mentions the virtue of fasting on the 9^th of Zul Hijjah. If anyone is unable to fast on the first 8 days of Zul Hijjah, he should at least try to fast on the 9^th of Zul Hijjah and have all his sins forgiven. How merciful is Allah Ta’ala! A person fasts for one day and Allah Ta’ala, The Most Kind, The Most Merciful, forgives all his sins for the past year as well as the coming year.

One Day Equals to a 1000 Days

Hadhrat Anas radiyallahu anhu has mentioned that the Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum would say that each of the first ten days of Zul Hijjah is equal to one thousand days in virtue, while the 9^th (day of Arafah) is equal to ten thousand days in virtue.

Staying awake on the night of Eid

Hadhrat Shaikhul Hadeeth, Moulana Muhammad Zakariyyah (rahmatullahi alayh) has mentioned the following Hadith in his famous book Fazaail-e-Ramadhaan,

عَنْ عُبَادَةَ بْنِ الصَّامِتِ رَضِيَ اللّٰهُ عَنْهُ أَنَّ رَسُوْلَ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ: مَنْ أَحْيَا لَيْلَةَ الْفِطْرِ وَالْاَضْحَى، لَمْ يَمُتْ قَلْبُهُ يَوْمَ تَمُوْتُ الْقُلُوْبُ

Rasulullah sallallahu alayhi wasallam said, “Whoever remains awake for Ibaadah on the nights before both the Eids, his heart shall not die on that day when hearts shall die.” [At Targheeb wat Tarheeb # 1655 & 1657]

This night too should be appreciated. Most of us enjoy our sleep on this night, whereas this night too is a night that should be spent in Ibaadah. “His heart shall not die” means that at the time when evil will overpower all, his heart shall stay alive (guarded against evil). It may also refer to the time when the Soor (trumpet) shall be blown to announce the day of Qiyaamah on that day he will not become unconscious.

[1] At Targheeb wat Tarheeb # 1782

bilal2023-06-16T09:04:14+00:00June 16th, 2023|Categories: Articles|

bilal2023-06-16T08:42:17+00:00June 16th, 2023|Categories: Articles|

Advice of Hadhrat Moulana Ali Mia Nadwi (RA) regrading the importance of the maktab

Moulana Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi’s (rahmatullahi alayh) address to madrasah graduates

“Please forgive me (for saying this). Presently, I am not so convinced regarding the benefits of having Higher-level Arabic Madrasahs (Darul Ulooms) in every small town and village and that every area must have the final year kitaabs and every Madrasah must complete Bukhaari Shareef. There is a greater need now for makaatib (plural of maktab).

As we are sitting here, India is changing very very fast. Everything is being controlled by the government. Presently, it’s the turn of the Muslim universities (to be under their control). Tomorrow it can be the Madrasahs. Thus, it is for this reason that we have to spread out the net of maktabs and make the masjids the centre of a Muslim’s life.

Eventually, it will be in the masjid, where change shall take place. Thus, make such a place your centre where change will reach with a delay, or by the time any change reaches there, Qiyaamat will arrive. Therefore, make the masjids your centres and establish as many maktabs as you can.

You should not at all be distressed that you were once in a (big) madrasah. You studied this (big kitaab) and studied that (big kitaab). You learnt the different sciences and facts (of Deeni knowledge) and now you are here speaking to villagers and you have to teach little children, thus you have now wasted your knowledge. Don’t ever think like this.

Our goal is the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and the preservation of Islam.”

[paaja suraagh-e-zindagi Page 173/174]

bilal2023-07-24T16:09:25+00:00June 13th, 2023|Categories: Articles|

Hadhrat Talha bin Ubaidillah Radiallahu Anhu

Hadhrat Talha bin Ubaidillah radiallahu anhu, along with some experienced traders, had once set off for a trade journey to the land of Syria. When they reached the city of Busra, the traders rushed to the market place and began trading. Although Talha radiallahu anhu was the youngest and most inexperienced amongst them, he was gifted with intelligence and foresight which put him on an equal footing with the others. This trade journey was meant to be a life-changer for Talha radiallahu anhu and he narrates the following about this trade journey himself:

“Whilst at the market place, a Christian scholar called out to the people, “Oh traders, is there anyone here from the land of the Haram (Makkah)?” I was standing close-by so I rushed forward towards him and replied in the affirmative. He asked, “Has Ahmad bin Abdillah bin Abdil Muttalib appeared before you as a prophet? He is the final messenger and this is the month in which he is expected to appear. He will be commissioned as a Prophet in Makkah and thereafter migrate to the city of Madinah. I urge you to hasten towards him young man!”

The scholar’s words left an indelible impression on his heart. He mounted his camel and set-off for Makkah leaving behind his travelling companions. As soon as he reached home, He asked his family if anything unusual had taken place during his absence. They informed him that Muhammad bin Abdillah has claimed Prophethood and Ibnu Quhaafa (Abu Bakr) has become his follower.

Talha radiallahu anhu says, “I knew Abu Bakr radiallahu anhu very well. He was an easy-going lovable person. We were all attracted to him due to his extensive knowledge of the Quraishi tribes and their lineage. Together with this, he was also an honest trader who possessed sublime character. I set-off to meet him and make further enquiries regarding the Deen of Muhammad sallallahu alayhi wa sallam.”

Abu Bakr radiallahu anhu explained to him the beautiful and pure beliefs of Islam and encouraged him to accept the Deen of Islam. Talha radiallahu anhu then explained to Abu Bakr radiallahu anhu what had transpired in the land of the Shaam and the announcement of the Christian scholar. Together, they proceeded to Nabi sallallahu alayhi wa sallam and narrated the incident to him. Nabi sallallahu alayhi wa sallam presented Islam to Talha radiallahu anhu and recited a few verses from the Qur’aan Shareef. Allah Ta’ala opened the heart of Talha radiallahu anhu to Islam and he took the Shahaadat (accepted Islam).

The Islam of Talha radiallahu anhu struck like a bolt of lightning upon his family. The most grieved was his mother. At first his family tried to turn him away from Islam using love and kindness. However this did not deter him in the least. Hence they changed their approach to that of aggression and punishment. Mas’ood bin Kharaash says, “I was once walking between Safa and Marwa when I saw a youngster whose hands were tied to his neck. A large group of people were following him. Some were beating him on his back whilst others were striking him on his head. Behind them was an old woman screaming and swearing at him. Upon enquiry, I was told that this was Talha bin Ubaidillah and the old woman was his mother.”

Talha radiallahu anhu endured all the persecution patiently and his faith in Allah Ta’ala only increased with each passing day. Eventually he made hijrat (migrated) to Madinah Munawwarah on the command of Rasullullah sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. He participated alongside Nabi sallallahu alayhi wa sallam in the all the battles which took place except the battle of Badr, as he was sent as a spy to check on the caravan of the Quraish. Therefore he was given a share from the spoils of Badr and Nabi sallallahu alayhi wa sallam also gave him the glad-tidings of receiving the reward of those who participated.

He was known to be a mujahid (warrior) par excellence. In the battle of Uhud, he displayed extraordinary sacrifice and bravery whilst protecting the Nabi of Allah sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. In the process of defending Nabi sallallahu alayhi wa sallam, Talha radiallahu anhu suffered over 70 wounds to his body and one of his fingers became paralysed as well. Therefore Abu Bakr radiallahu anhu used to say that the day of Uhud belonged to Talha. He was also given the honourable title of ‘THE LIVING MATYR’.

On one occasion, Talha radiallahu anhu received 700 000 Dirhams from one of his business transactions. At night, he was restless and could not sleep. His wife sensed this and tried to ascertain the cause of his anxiety. He explained to her that how can he sleep when all this wealth is in his home. The next morning, he distributed all this wealth between the poor Muhajireen and Ansaar. This is just one incident of the many regarding his generosity which earned him the title of Talha Al- Khair (the possessor of goodness).

The most honourable and enviable virtue which Talha radiallahu anhu had was that he was from amongst those Sahaaba radiallahu anhum who were promised Jannah in one sitting by Nabi sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. These Sahaaba radiallahu anhum were known as the Ashara Mubashara (the 10 Sahaaba who were given the glad tidings of Jannah in this world). May Allah Ta’ala bless us with their companionship in the hereafter.

bilal2023-05-15T18:24:21+00:00May 15th, 2023|Categories: Articles, Sahaaba|

The Taraweeh of Hadhrat Moulana Yahya (RA)

Taken from Akaabir ka Ramdhaan of Hadhrat Shaikh Zakariyya (rahmatullahi alayh)

Hadhrat Shaikh Zakariyya (rahmatullahi alayh) has written the following about his father Moulana Yahya (rahmatullahi alayh).

My late father on many occasions mentioned to us the following story, “During the last Ramadhaan of Hadhrat Ml Rasheed Ahmad Gangohi (rahmatullahi alayh), I led the Taraaweeh Salaah for him and his attendants. It so happened that because of some reason or the other, Hadhrat’s son, Hakeem Mas’ood was unable to perform Taraaweeh.” For quite some days before the commencement of Ramadhaan Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) said, “Mas’ood Ahmad is reluctant and not able to lead the Taraaweeh Salaah. Who is going to recite the Qur-aan for us in Taraaweeh?” On every occasion, I wanted to offer my services and declare my readiness, but out of respect, I refrained from doing so. Two days before Ramadhaan Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) said, “Molvi Yahya Saheb! You are also a Haafiz of the Qur-aan?” I replied, “Yes Hadhrat, I am indeed. However, I recite the Quran in a Persian tone. You are used to hearing the recitation of Hakeem Mas’ood Ahmad Saheb, who is indeed a fine Qaari.” Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) replied, “No, I have already heard your recitation. You shall lead us in Taraaweeh.” My father says, “On the first day it was a great burden for me. By way of preparation, I had to recite one and a quarter para of the Qur-aan by looking into the Qur-aan. I had memorised the Qur-aan at the age of seven. Thereafter for six months, I had to look into the Qur-aan Shareef and daily recite one full khatam. Since then I have never looked into the Qur-aan to recite it. The first day, in order to prepare myself properly, I recited one and a quarter para from the Qur-aan, but from the second day onwards the fear, nervousness and anxiety disappeared. Thereafter there was no further need for me to look into the Qur-aan and read.”

My late father (May Allah fill his qabr with noor) was indeed a very good Haafiz with tremendous energy to recite the Qur-aan Shareef by heart. He had a bookshop where he himself made up the parcels to be posted and wrote the addresses himself. While doing that he was all the time reciting the Qur-aan Shareef in an audible fashion without ever becoming confused or struggling over the ‘mutashaabihaat’.

Moulana ‘Aashiq Ilaahi (rahmatullahi alayh) writes about him in Tazkiratul-e-Khaleel, “Once, upon my request he was invited to Meerut to lead the Taraaweeh Salaah and recite the Qur-aan Shareef in Ramadhaan. I saw that wherever he went, he was all the time busy reciting by himself so that he finished a whole khatam daily. When it was time for Iftaar, he was reading, “Qul a’oozu birabbin Naas…” When he arrived by rail at Meerut it was Esha time. Being a man who was continuously in a state of wudhu, he entered the Masjid and immediately proceeded to the musalla to lead the Salaah. In three hours, he recited ten paras clearly without any struggle in the difficult parts as if the Qur-aan Shareef was an open book in front of him. So comfortable was his pace of recitation, that he completed a full khatam of the Qur-aan in three nights and departed. So good a hafiz was he that there was no need to revise his reading beforehand neither was there any need for someone to stand behind him and listen with the intention to correct if needed.”

My father also used to say about this visit to Meerut, “When the word got around in Meerut that a certain man was coming to complete a full khatam of the Qur-aan in Salaah within three days, thirty or forty Huffaaz arrived from far and wide to stand behind him and test him.”

My late father never had trouble with fear in Ramadhaan like myself. On the invitations and insistence of friends, he often went to their places to finish a khatam in two or at the most three nights before returning home. In Masaajid, he generally did it in three nights and in other ibaadat-khanas he generally did so in two or even in one night. Once on the invitation of the late Shah Zaahid Husain he completed a khatam at Shah Saheb’s house in two nights.

I can still remember his recitation in the Nawab-wali Masjid in Delhi. Molvi Naseeruddin was busy performing Taraaweeh in the Hakeem Ishaq Masjid. At that time, my father arrived in Delhi from somewhere. He went to rest a little in the resting place of Hakeem Ishaq attached to the Masjid. It so happened that Molvi Naseeruddin was reciting the 14th para and he was making mistakes. He had to be corrected time and again. My father went into the Masjid and as soon as Molvi Naseeruddin made the next salaam, he asked him to move from the spot, and he himself took over. In the next sixteen rakaats he recited sixteen paras. No doubt, the musallis must have found it tiring and exhausting. However, it is a fact that people are more pleased with finishing the Qur-aan Shareef quickly than they are worried about a bit of hardship. To have been able to finish the Qur-aan on the 12th night made them forget their exhaustion.

I can also remember his recitation of the Qur-aan in the house of Ummi Bi in Kandhla. She is Amatur Rahmaan, the daughter of Moulana Muzaffar Hussain, my father’s Nani (maternal grandmother) who was known as Ummi Bi. In answer to her special request, he remained reciting the Qur-aan Shareef throughout the night in Nafl Salaah. Because of the fact, that according to the Hanafis it is not permissible to have more than four muqtadees in Nafl Salaah, the ladies behind him had to be changed continuously, while my father continued reciting.

My late uncle (Moulana Ilyaas rahmatullahi alayh) also used to visit Kandhla in Ramadhaan because of Ummi Bi. In those days, the Qur-aan khatam used to be completed in a single night. At those times, he performed Esha Salaah in the Masjid and thereafter go to the house of Ummi Bi to perform Taraaweeh there from after Esha until Sehri time, thereby completing fourteen or fifteen paras.

Maulana Raooful Hasan Saheb is the maamoo (maternal uncle) of my late father and the father of my late wife. On the 30th Ramadhaan he recited from Alif Laam Meem until Qul a’oozu bi rabbil falaq… in one single rakaat and in the second rakaat he recited only Surah Naas! Then at Sehri time, he told his mother, Ummi bi, “I have now performed two rakaats, will you now perform the other eighteen?” During that time, his mother listened to the Qur-aan Shareef whilst standing behind him in Salaah!

bilal2023-03-07T14:17:25+00:00March 7th, 2023|Categories: Aakaabir, Articles|

The Ramadhaan of Hadhrat Moulana Khaleel Ahmad Sahaaranpuri رَحْمَةُ اللّٰهِ عَلَيْهِ

Taken from Akaabir ka Ramdhaan of Hadhrat Shaikh Zakariyya (rahmatullahi alayh)

Tahajjud
According to different times of the year, Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) used to get up about two or three hours before sehri. He had sehri about half an hour before the time for which he took about fifteen to twenty minutes. Thus, he finished about fifteen minutes before Fajar. It was his habit to recite two paras in Tahajjud Salaah. Sometimes it was a bit more and sometimes a bit less, according to the time available.

After Fajar
Throughout the year after the Fajr Salaah, it was his habit to sit in his place and recite various wazeefaas. In the cold days of winter he did so after entering into the privacy of his own room while during the hot days he sat on a bed in the courtyard of the Madrasah until sunrise. He would sit in deep meditation.

Then from sunrise onwards, he busied himself with his lecturing on Bukhaari Shareef and Tirmzi Shareef. After 1335 Hijri he busied himself at this time with the writing of Bazlul Majhood (a commentary on Abu Dawood Shareef) till one o’clock in the Summer and until 12 o’clock, in the winter. Thereafter he would rest until Zuhr Salaah.

Awwaabeen
There was no difference in the number of rakaats performed as nafl after Maghrib compared to the rest of the year. However, in the manner of his performance there was a definite difference. Generally, he recited one and a quarter paras in Awwaabeen Salaah and during Ramadhaan it was those paras which he was to recite in Taraaweeh later in the evening. After Awwaabeen Salaah, Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) used to return home to have his meal for which he took about twenty to twenty-five minutes, but he ate very little during this meal.

Taraaweeh
Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) himself always led the Taraaweeh Salaah until about two years before he passed away. It was his fixed habit to finish the khatam of the Qur-aan Shareef on the evening of the 29th of Ramadhaan. In the first four nights, he recited one and a quarter paras and thereafter one para per a night.

When Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh)’s age went beyond seventy, it became increasingly difficult for him to continue doing so. He used to say, “When I go into ruku’ the thought comes into my mind that perhaps I will not be able to rise up again for the second rakaat. Then I take the courage and with difficulty I come up. In this manner, I finally complete twenty rakaats, fearing in every rakaat that I may collapse and fall down, and feeling all the time that rising up from sajdah to the standing position is tantamount to climbing a mountain.”

Hadhrat Shaikh Zakariyyah (rahmatullahi alayh) writes in Aap Beeti that, “On the boat en route to Hajj, Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) suffered such dizziness that he could hardly lift his head from the pillow. The same was the case with me in spite of my comparatively youthful age. Apart from that there was a considerable amount of vomiting also. The bad smells of the boat, especially when it was being filled with petrol (diesel) caused one to become dizzy, nauseous and induced vomiting.

On the 29th Sha’baan he told me: “Bhai, what is to become of Taraaweeh?” I replied: “Hadhrat, I will perhaps be able to bear the dizziness and the turning of my head, but what will happen if during the Salaah I should start vomiting?” He replied: “That is all right. If you should vomit, then just go and perform wudhu again.” The boat was a small one and used to roll about a lot. In spite of the rolling about, which made standing up quite an ordeal, and in spite of dizziness and extreme weakness and exhaustion, Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) performed Taraaweeh standing.

After Taraaweeh, Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) used to rest for about fifteen to twenty minutes while some attendants massaged his legs. At this time there used to be some general conversation regarding the Qur-aan Shareef.

For example, someone may have mistakenly corrected him from behind or it may be concerning something which might have happened during Taraaweeh. Some minutes used to be spent on this in a light-hearted manner.

After Taraaweeh and after resting for a while, he used to go home, where for fifteen to twenty minutes he talked to his family members. Some of the women of the area also used to arrive at this time, and he used to advise them for a short while. Thereafter he went to sleep for about two and a half to three hours.

Tilaawat of the Qur-aan
During the Mubaarak month of Ramadhaan, Hadhrat Moulana Khaleel Ahmad Sahaaranpuri (rahmatullahi alayh) used to recite Qur-aan Shareef from after Ishraaq until eleven o’clock. After Zuhr Salaah, Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) recited whatever he was to recite in Taraweeh that night to Hafiz Muhammad Hussain Ujrarwy. This was what Hafiz Saheb used to come to Saharanpur for.

Occasionally when for some reason or the other, Haafiz Saheb was absent and during his stay in Madinah Munawwarah, he used to make ‘dor’ with me (Hadhrat Shaikh Zakariyyah rahmatullahi alayh). After my return from Hajj and it was a time when his work on Bazlul Majhood had also been completed, he developed the habit of daily reciting one para to his wife. It was this para, which he was to recite in Awwaabeen Salaah that night and in Taraaweeh.

Hadhrat (rahmatullahi alayh) once said, “If my brain wishes, it may go and give in and if it wishes, it may stay working soundly, but under no circumstances shall the Word of Allah Ta’ala leave me.”

Apart from reading Qur-aan, the tasbeeh was always in his hands and his tongue all the time busy with zikr. If ever any of his mureeds had to ask something, he would reply to them.

I’itikaaf
Except for the last two or three years of his life when he had grown weak and was plagued by illness, I have never seen him not performing I’tikaaf in the last ten days of Ramadhaan.

bilal2023-03-03T08:48:59+00:00March 3rd, 2023|Categories: Aakaabir, Articles|

Hadhrat Uqbah bin Aamir (radiyallahu anhu) A brief biography

Hadhrat Uqbah bin Aamir explains the manner in which he accepted Islam.

He says; “When Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) came to Madinah Munawwarah, I was busy tending to my flock of goats. As soon as I received the news of his coming, I immediately left my flock and hastened to meet him.”

After taking bay’ah (pledge of allegiance) on the hands of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), Hadhrat Uqbah bin Aamir Al-Juhanee (radiyallahu anhu) returned to his flock on the outskirts of Madinah. Not long thereafter, the attraction to learn directly at the feet of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) overpowered him and he gave up tending to goats. He moved into the city of Madinah, living in Masjidun Nabawi (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), in order to be close to Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

Uqbah (radiyallahu anhu) made a firm resolve to stay close and attach himself to the messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), not knowing that a decade later, he would become one of the great scholars and conquerors of Islam. Uqbah (radiyallahu anhu) had an intense passion for seeking Deeni knowledge and he became a master in all the Islamic sciences. Allah Ta’ala had blessed him with a melodious voice with which he would recite the Qur-aan Shareef, leaving many listeners in tears.

Uqbah (radiyallahu anhu) participated alongside Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) in Uhud and all the succeeding battles. He was an extremely skilled archer who showed great courage in the conquest of Damascus. As a reward for his heroic achievements, the Ameer of the Muslim army, Hadhrat Abu Ubaydah bin Jarraah (radiyallahu anhu), gave him the task of conveying the glad-tidings of victory to Ameerul Mu’mineen, Umar bin Khattaab (radiyallahu anhu). He rode non-stop for eight days and nights, from one Friday to the next, until he reached Madinah Munawarah where he passed on the message of victory. He was also one of the generals who conquered Egypt and he governed Egypt for three years under the rule of Hadhrat Muaawiya (radiyallahu anhu). So great was his passion for Jihaad that he memorised all the Ahaadeeth pertaining to Jihaad and he used to recite it to the Muslims as a form of encouragement in the different expeditions. During his free time, he used to practise archery in preparation for battle.

When the time of his death drew near, Hadhrat Uqbah (radiyallahu anhu) called his sons and gave them his final wasiyyat (parting advice) saying, “My beloved sons, I forbid you from three things, so be sure to stay away from them. Never accept any Hadith of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) without being sure of its authenticity. Never incur any debts, even if you are dressed in worn-out clothing. Do not compose poetry lest it distracts your hearts from the Qur-aan Majeed.” The only possessions which he left behind were seventy bows, each with a quiver and arrows. He had made a bequest that all of it should be used in the path of Allah.

bilal2023-02-25T06:22:26+00:00February 25th, 2023|Categories: Articles, Sahaaba|

Hadhrat Abdullah Al-Muzani radiallahu anhu

Hadhrat Abdullah Al-Muzani radiallahu anhu

In the mountain ranges of Warqaan which is located between Makkah Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah, there lived a tribe known as Muzainah. A baby boy was born to parents, from this tribe, who were extremely poor. They named him Abdul Uzza. Not long after his birth, his father passed away leaving behind the young child as an orphan. However, this boy had a paternal uncle who was extremely wealthy and had no children of his own. Therefore he took the innocent young child under his care and showered him with love and kindness as though it was his own child. The youngster grew up to be an adult of fine manners and beautiful conduct. These qualities made him even more beloved to his Uncle.

This young man only came to know about Islam when Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam made Hijrat (migrated) to Madinah Munawwarah. He was intrigued by this new Deen (Religion) and the final messenger of Allah Ta’ala. This spurred him on to gain whatever information possible regarding this ‘new Deen’. In a short period of time, Allah Ta’ala opened up his heart towards the beauty and perfection of Islam leading him to accept Islam without even setting his eyes on Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. Initially he concealed his Islam and used to worship Allah Ta’ala in secrecy, away from the gazes of people. He had great hope that his uncle would also be guided to the beautiful Deen of Islam but it was not to be. Eventually, he could not contain himself anymore and openly proclaimed his belief in the Oneness of Allah and the risaalat (prophethood) of Nabi Muhammad Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. The desire to meet Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam had consumed his heart and mind.

The news of his Islam caused his uncle to go into a fit of rage and he immediately threatened to withdraw all the privileges which he had afforded to the young man. This could not deter this fine lad as Imaan had penetrated deep into the recesses of his heart. He opted for the company of Rasullullah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam and gave up everything. With only a coarse cloth covering his body, he headed towards the blessed city of Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. The excitement and enthuaism grew within him as he approached Madinah Munawwarah. He reached Madinah Munawwarah at night and spent the evening in the Masjid. At the time of fajr salaah, he finally fulfilled his dream of seeing Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam.

After the Fajr salaah, Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam called him and asked him who he was and from where he had come. Thereafter Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam changed his name from Abdul Uzza to Abdullah. Abdullah radiallahu anhu then took up residence in the blessed city of Madinah Munawwarah in the company of Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. The world had called him towards it but he chose to close his ears to its call and turned all his attention to the eternal life of the Aakhirah.

Abdullah radiallahu anhu, after migrating to Madinah, participated in all the battles which Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam had set out for. During the expedition of Tabuk, Abdullah radiallahu anhu asked Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam to make dua for him to blessed with matrydom. Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam made dua in his favour that he be hounoured with matrydom in such a way that he is protected from the sword of an enemy. Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam also explained to him that a person who falls ill and passes away through that illness will be considered a Shaheed (martyr) as well. Within a day after this dua, Abdullah radiallahu anhu developed a fever and passed on into the mercy of Allah Ta’ala.

He passed away as a muhajir (one who migrates) for the sake of Allah Ta’ala, A mujahid (warrior) in the path of Allah, in a strange land far away from his family and friends. The Sahaabah radiallahu anhum dug his Qabr (grave). Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam himself went down into his Qabr. Abu Bakr and Umar radiallahu anhuma passed his body to Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam who lowered him with his own Mubarak hands into the Qabr. Thereafter Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam made the following dua, “Oh Allah, indeed I was pleased with him, so you be pleased with him”

Abdullah bin Mas’ood radiallahu anhu stood by the graveside witnessing this amazing sight and said; “If only I was the inmate of this Qabr. By Allah! I wish I was in his place even though I had accepted Islam 15 years before him.” Allah Ta’ala surely recompensed him in the most beautiful of ways.

bilal2023-02-04T08:02:02+00:00February 4th, 2023|Categories: Articles, Sahaaba|