Ramadan Rules and Regulation

Ramadan Rules and Relates Issue

In the name of ALLAH,   the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So, whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan, i.e., is present at his home), he must observe Saum (fasts) that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Saum (fasts) must be made up] from other days. Allah intends for you ease, and he does not want to make things difficult to you. (He wants that you) must complete the same number (of days), and that you must magnify Allah [i.e. to say Takbir (Allahu Akbar: Allah is the Most Great)] for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him.”
(2:185)

Miscellaneous Explications for Diversified issues

1.                   Fasting is compulsory upon every adult, sane and healthy Muslim.

2.                   It is not obligatory for minor children to fast. However, it is preferable to encourage them to fast as they are able to do so, in order for them to become accustomed to it from an early age

3.                   A person who is chronically ill and fears that by fasting, he will suffer further difficulty, or make his illness worse, then it is not necessary for him to fast. Rather he has to make up for those days once he is relieved.

4.                   The same rule is true for women who are pregnant, or breast feeding, or if she fears for herself, or for her infant. Such decisions are to be based upon the expert advice of an honest doctor. They are permitted to break the fast, but later, they have to make up for such missed fasts.

5.                   A woman in her menstruation or postnatal period is exempt from fasting. The postnatal period occurs after childbirth, lasting until the moment the bleeding ceases, the maximum period being forty days. Whenever her bleeding ceases, her cleanliness begins, then she takes a complete bath and performs the prayer or observes fasting accordingly. It is necessary for those who were in menstruation or postnatal period to make up for the missed fasts.

6.                   Those who are physically incapable of fasting, such as the chronically or terminally ill, or those suffering from senility, such are permitted to break the fast. However, later they have to feed a poor person for every missed day. In other words, their expiation of feeding the needy is equal to observing the fast.

7.                   Similarly, one who is insane, in a coma, unconscious, or very old- having lost the faculty of sensation, or those who suffer from psychosis or other mental disorders. These are exempt from the fast.

8.                   Those in extreme conditions or in emergency situations, such as those swimming into deep bodies of water or rescuing victims of fire, they are also permitted to break their fast. This is especially the case when their life saving mission is impossible while fasting. However, they have to make up for these fasts later.

9.                   A traveler, who suffers from the length of the journey, is also allowed to break his fast, but he has to make up for his missed days Similarly, those involved in the permanent duty of continuous traveling, such as drivers of railway and bus transportation, or those executives who travel from one city to another every day. These are also permitted to break their fast, but they have to be made up for later. Such eligibility applies whether their journey is frequent or not. Nevertheless, they are not completely excused from fasting; rather it is obligatory for them to complete the fasts of Ramadan. If they are not able to observe fasting in Ramadan due to their journey, they must make up for those missed days outside of Ramadan.

The Essential Elements of the Fast

1.       The Intention

In the case of the obligatory fast, the intention must be made the night before the fast begins. Allah’s Messenger said:

“Whoever does not determine to fast before the dawn, his fasting is null and void.” (Ahmad and the Four Sunan Compilers, graded authentic by Shaikh Al-Albani in Sahih Al Jami ‘As-Saghir, No. 6539)

Every Muslim must make his intention at night to observe his fasting from early morning the next day, in addition to taking his pre-dawn meal (Suhoor).

2.       Duration of the Fast

Its duration is from dawn to sunset. Before the dawn (Fajr), one has to take his pre-dawn mean (Suhoor) and anstain from everything that invalidates the fast until sunset.

3.       Pre-dawn Meal (Suhoor)

Some people are not serious about the pre-dawn meal, since either they have an adequate dinner at night before going for a deep sleep, or they have a meal during the middle of the night. Either choice is wrong. Allah's Messenger said:

“The difference between our fasting and that of the people of the Scriptures is the Suhoor (Pre-   dawn meal).” (Muslim)

This is because the People of the Book do not eat the pre-dawn meal, while Muslims regularly take the pre-dawn meal. Therefore, taking the pre-dawn meal is essential. Therefore, Allah's Messenger has signified it by describing the pre-dawn meal as a “blessed provision.” (Abu Dawud)

In another Hadith, Allah's Messenger said:

 “Taking the pre-dawn meal in Ramadan is a blessing, so do not leave it, even by drinking a mouthful water. For Allah the Noble and the Mighty, and His angels send blessing over those who have taken the pre-dawn meal.” (Ahmad, graded authentic by Shaikh Al-Albani in Sahih Al-Jami ´ As- Saghir, No. 3683)

 Allah and His angels send blessing' signifies that Allah sends His Grace, Honor, Blessings, and Merey on him, and His angels ask Allah to bless and forgive him.

4.       Hasten to break the Fasting

Hastening to breaking the fast, without delay is from the Sunnah of the Prophet, Hastening means to break the fast immediately after sunset without any further delay.

“People will continue to adhere to good as long as they hasten break the fast.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

5.       How to break the Fast

Narrated Anas:

 “Allah's Messenger used to break his fast before Maghrib (sunset) prayer with three fresh dates; if there were no fresh dates, he would eat three dry dates; and if there were no dry dates, he would take three draughts of water.” (Abu Dawud and others, graded authentic by Shaikh Al-Albani in Sahih Al-Jami ´ As-Saghir, No.4995)

6.       Times responding to the Supplication

Those believers who strive and control themselves, abstaining from those things restricted, such as food, drink, and sexual desire, all day long, to attain the Pleasure of Allah, will definitely have a special status with Allah. Thus, responding to his invocation when breaking his fast is more likely to occur. Allah's Messenger said:

“The supplication of a fasting person upon breaking his fast will not be rejected.” (Ibn Majah, graded authentic by Shaikh Al-Albani in Sahih Sunan Ibn Majah, No. 1432)

7.       What to Supplicate upon breaking the Fast?

There is a well-known invocation related in the hadith in this respect.

 “Allahumma laka sumtu wa-‘ala Rizqika Aftartu.”

(O Allah! For You I have observed fasting and with Your provisions do I break my fasting).

A second supplication is “Allahumma laka sumtu, wa bika amantu, wa-‘alaika tawakkaltu, wa ‘ala rizqika aftartu.”

(O Allah! For you I have observed fasting and in You I have believed and upon You I have relied, and with Your provisions do I break my fasting).

8.       Reward for helping Others to break their Fast

Allah's Messenger said:

“He who provides a fasting person something with which to break his fast, and he who equips a fighter (in the way of Allah with arms, etc.) will learn the same reward as the one who was doing it.” (At-Tirmidi, graded authentic by Shaikh Al-Albabi in Sahih At-Targhib, No.1072)

9.       Shunning Evil Deeds

A fasting person must abstain from the following evil deeds and speech:

           i.         False speech

Allah's Messenger said:

“Whosoever doesn’t give up speaking falsely, and acting on those lies and evil action, Allah does not care for his abstaining from eating and drinking (i.e., Allah will not accept his fasting).” (Al-Bukhari)

         ii.         Vain speech and foul Language

Allah's Messenger said:

“Fasting is not just (abstaining from) eating and drinking, but fasting is also (refraining) from vain speech (Laghw) and foul (or obscene) language (Rafath). If one you is being verbally abused or annoyed, he should say: ‘I am fasting.’” (Al-Bayhaqi in his Sunan, Ibn Khuzaymah in his Sahih, Al-Hakim and others. It was graded authentic by Shaikh Al-Albani in Sahih Al-Jami ‘ As Saghir, no.5376

Permissible things for fasting Person

It is permissible to observe fasting after taking one’s pre-dawn meal while one is in a state sexual impurity. However, it is imperative that such person take a full bath to offer the prayer. Narrated ‘Aishah:

“Allah's Messenger would wake up at Fajr (dawn) in a state of sexual impurity after having intercourse with his wives. So, he would then take a bath and observe fasting.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

It is allowed to clean the mouth using the Miswak (tooth-stick).  There is no harm for the fasting person to sniff water into his nose to rinse it out, if they take care not to let the water reach too far inside the nose. In a normal state, there is nothing wrong in overdoing such sniffing. Allah's Messenger said:

“And if not fasting, sniff water up well inside the nose.” (authenticated by Shaikh Al-Albani)

It is allowed to kiss one’s wife while fasting as well as to embrace her.

It is learnt from hadith that kissing and fondling one’s wife is permissible even if one is fasting. However, this is exclusively limited to those who have self-control and restrain during such passionate moments. Nevertheless, contemporary scholars hold the firm view that if the fasting person is young, then it is undesirable to kiss or fondle his wife while fasting. In case of older individuals, such acts are acceptable. The reason for this distinction is obvious in the case of youths, since the danger of exceeding the boundaries of excitement is more likely than in the case of the more mature person.

Medicinal injections are allowed for the fasting person, as long as such injections are not food or nourishment substitutes. This type of injection should strictly be for medical treatment only. It does not matter if the injection was intravenous or underneath the skin, as it does not reach the stomach through the customary manner (that food does).

Similarly, in a state of fasting, it is permissible to use cupping to drain blood. That is, the process of drawing blood to the surface of the skin by creating a vacuum at that point. Having one’s teeth removed is also permissible.

“The prophet has himself cupped when he was fasting.” (Al-Bukhari)

Applying kohl and eyeliner into eyes, dropping some medicine into eyes or ears, are also permissible, even while fasting, whether some taste from it finds its way to the throat or not. One’s fasting is not invalidated by these actions.

Actions that void Fast

1.       Intentional eating or drinking is among the things that invalidate the fast. Meanwhile, if somebody eats or drink forgetfully, or he is forced to do so, then he should complete his fasting. Allah’s Messenger said:

“If somebody cats or drink forgetfully, then he should complete his fasting, for what he has eaten or drank, has actually been given to him by Allah.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

2.       Intentional vomiting: if a fasting person intentionally vomits, his fasting will be void. However, if one unintentionally vomits, his fast is valid. Allah’s Messenger said:

“Whoever is overcome and vomits is not to make up for the day, and whoever vomits intentionally must make up for the day.” (Related by the Four Sunnah Compilers and others, authenticated by Shaikh Al-Albani in sahih Al-Jami ‘As-Saghir, No.6243)

3.       Sexual intercourse with the wife: if a fasting person purposefully has sexual intercourse, his fast will be null and void and he must make up for the day later, as well as paying the expiation for it. This expiation is to free a slave, observe fast for two successive months, or feed sixty of the poor. (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

4.       If things like gulcose, blood or any type of foodstuff reach one’s stomach, then the fast is invalidated. This is because one has taken them intentionally for consumption.

5.       Menstruation and post-childbirth bleeding invalidate the fast.

6.       Purposeful ejaculation of semen invalidates one’s fast. Unintentional ejaculation which occurs by a wet dream will not invalidate the fast, because this action is something beyond one’s control and choice, contrary to the former case.

7.       In the case when someone has lost blood due to an injury or wound, if he is given blood to replenish his blood supply, then his fast will be broken. However, the mere loss of blood does not break the fast.

Issues related to making up for the Fast

1.       The first category includes the sick, or one traveling, or in a period of menstruation and post-childbirth bleeding. Then they should hasten to make up for missed days of fasting immediately after Ramadan. It is not necessary that they be made up in successive days.

2.       Whoever died and missed some obligatory prayers, and then there is no making up for those missed prayers. Similarly, if a person becomes too weak to fast, he must feed an indigent for each missed day during his lifetime. However, making up for those missed days is not required.

3.       Whoever made a vow, swearing to fast, but was unable to do so during his lifetime, his heirs must fulfill the vow for him. Allah’s Messenger said:

“Whoever dies while required to fast, and then his guardians must fast on his behalf.” ( Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Virtuous Deeds of Ramdan

HOW DO WE WELCOME RAMADAN?

                Praise to bee ALLAH. Peace and blessings be upon the messenger of ALLAH, his family, his companions and those who follow him until the Day of Judgment. ALLAH has blessed this month with numerous advantages and virtues over other months, and distinguished it due to the following merits;

·         This is the month in which the noble Qur’an was revealed. ALLAH says:

                “The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an”        (2: 185)

·         In one of the odd nights of the last ten days of this month, there will be night of Decree. Worshipping ALLAH in that night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months. ALLAH says;

               “The night of Al-Qadr (decree) is better than a thousand months.” (97: 3)

One thousand months means 83 years and 4 months, which the average person does not complete. This is one of the best graces that ALLAH has bestowed on this Muslim Ummah, granting us a very tremendous night in this month.

EXCELLENT DEEDS OF RAMADAN

1.      FASTING:

The best deed of this month is fasting. ALLAH’s messenger said: “all the deeds of the children of Adam (people) are from them, and the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times to seven hundred times. ALLAH the All-Mighty and noble say: ‘except for fasting, which is for me, and I will give the reward for it. He has abandoned his food, drink and desires for my sake.’ There are two pleasures for the fasting person; one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord. The smell coming from the mouth of a fasting person is better to ALLAH than the aroma of musk.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

In order version of the Hadith, ALLAH’s messenger said: “Whoever observes fasting in Ramadan with firm belief and hope of reward, his past sins will be forgiven.” (Al-Bukhari)

Those bountiful rewards and merits will not be attained merely by abandoning one’s routine menu of food or drink. Rather it will be achieved only by those who really observe fasting in a proper manner, then shun all evil deeds and vices, such as telling lies, backbiting, false speech, obscene behavior, and absurd acts. ALLAH’s messenger said: “whoever doesn’t abstain from speaking falsely, and acting upon false speech, ALLAH does not care for his abstaining from eating and drinking.”  (Al-Bukhari)

And he said: “Fasting is shield; so on a day that one is fasting, he should not indulge in offensive behavior or arguing; if anyone verbally abuses him or provokes him, he should say; ‘I am fasting’.”   (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

2.      THE NIGHT PRAYER

Another good deed of Ramadan is to perform the night prayer, with utmost humility and obvious reverence to ALLAH. Describing the very qualities of the servants of the most gracious, ALLAH added:

“Whoever prays night prayer in Ramadan, with firm belief and expecting a reward for it, his previous sins are forgiven.”          (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

3.      GIVING IN CHARITY AND DONATIONS

The third good deed of this blessed month of Ramadan is charity and benevolence narrated Ibn Abbas: “the messenger of ALLAH was the most generous of people, and he used to be more so in the monthe of Ramadan when Jibrael (Gabriel) visited him. Jibrael used to meet him on every year in the night of Ramadan until the end of the month. The messenger of ALLAH used to recite the Noble Qur’an to Jibrael, and when Jibrael met him, he was more generous than the fair wind [sent by ALLAH with glad tidings (rain), referring to doing charitable deeds].” (Muslim)

It is well understood from this Hadith that spending in charity and doing kind acts during the blessed month of Ramadan is more virtuous than during the other months.

The goal of giving in charity and donating is to attain the pleasure of ALLAH. This will be achieved by spending wealth, in the way of charity, on those who are poor, needy, indigent, orphans, widows, oppressed and downtrodden people of the community, etc., taking care of their social needs.

4.      PROVIDING FOR ONE TO BREAK THE FAST:

Another good deed is to provide the food or drink with which one will break their fast. ALLAH’s messenger said: “he who provides a fasting person something with which to break his fasting, will earn the same reward as the one who was observing the fast, without diminishing the reward of the latter at all.”  (Al-Tirmidhi)

In another version of Hadith, ALLAH’s messenger said: “He who provides a fasting person something with which to break his fasting, or he who equips a fighter (with war materials in the way of Allah), will earn the same reward as the one who was doing it.” (Al-Tirmidhi, graded authentic by Shaikh Al-Albani in Sahih Al-Targhib, no. 1072)

5.      INCREASING THE RECITATION FO THE QUR’AN

The blessed month of Ramadan is the month in which the Qur’an revealed. Thus, this blessed month of Ramadan is even more special in relation to the Qur’an, because ALLAH distinguished it by revealing the Qur’an during it. Another reason is that on every night of Ramadan, the angel Jibrael (Gabriel) used to meet the messenger of ALLAH, who would recite the whole Qur’an to Jibrael.

The companions of the Prophet and their successors would concentrate on reciting the Qur’an during this blessed month, completing it within ten, seven, and three or even less days according to their best ability. Some of the scholars are firm in their view that reciting the whole Qur’an in less than three days is prohibited according to an authentic Hadith. This is related to ordinary days and normal circumstances, while, blessed times and sacred venues are exempted from this general rule.

6.      FEAR AND WEEPING WHILE RECITING THE QUR’AN

It is necessary for everyone who recites or listens to the Noble Qur’an to be attentive with a sense of humility. This can be achieved it both the one reciting and the listener are familiar with the translation of its meanings, since reciting the Qur’an in rushed and melodic style is restricted. Nevertheless, the fact is that the Qur’an is not a title disseminating stories and tales; rather it is to be recited with the absolute intention that it is a testament meant for the true guidance of all humanity. Every single verse of the Noble Qur’an, issuing promises and threats, giving good news and admonition, is to be recited contemplatively. Wherever any verse mentions the mercy of ALLAH, begging forgiveness, good news and the bounties that ALLAH grants to the believers, and then it is recommended for one to supplicate to ALLAH to be granted his request. Similarly, wherever there is mention of warning and admonition, punishment and menace, then it is recommended to seek ALLAH’s protection from that. Our pious predecessors were reciting the Qur’an, understanding the contemplating its meanings repeatedly, as if they were submissively standing before ALLAH while doing so. Those who listen to the Qur’an in such a manner, with understanding while contemplating over its meanings are also influenced in such a tremendous fashion.

         

7.      TO PRACTICE I’TIKAF

One of the special deeds of Ramadan is I’tikaf. The Prophet used to pay close attention and give special importance to his good deed. During the last ten days and nights of Ramadan , The one in such a state confines himself to the mosque, concentrating on worship, leaving worldly activities and affairs. The Prophet was very punctual for this practice, ad it is reported that once he missed the practice of I’tikaf, so he performed it for another ten days from the last ten days of the month of Shawwal, (Al-Bukhari). The Prophet used to perform I’tikaf every year in the month of Ramadan for ten days, and during the year of his death, he stayed in I’tikaf for twenty days. (Al-Bukhari).

 Performing I’tikaf means to continue oneself in seclusion in a mosque for the purpose of worshipping ALLAH alone, leaving every worldly and personal affair. One’s mind exclusively concentrates on the goal of pleasing ALLAH. He is engaged in various types of worship, repentance, and beseeching ALLAH’s forgiveness. He offers as many voluntarily prayers as he can. Saying statements of remembrance and invocations to ALLAH, etc. in this sense, practicing I’tikaf is a combination of many acts of worship.

8.      SEARCHING FOR THE NIGHT OF DECREE

The night of Decree: a single night of it is more virtuous and meritorious than one thousand months. This night will occur in one of the five odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. The exact time of its occurrence is an absolute mystery. One of the possible reasons behind its secrecy is that a true believer should endeavor in worshipping during those uneven nights so as to attain all the rich reward and virtue of that tremendous time.

ALLAH’s messenger ahs described its superiority and said:  “whoever prays during the night of decree, with firm belief and expecting reward for it, his previous sins are forgiven.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

In other words, whenever you endeavor in worshipping in the odd nights of the last ten nights, then you will definitely attain the virtues of the night of decree.

9.      PRACTICES OF THE Prophet DURING THE LAST TEN DAYS

It is clear that performing I’tikaf is confined to the last ten days of Ramadan. The night of decree is likely to occur during one of the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan, and by searching for that night it is better to stay awake during the whole night, increasing in all types of worship including the nightly prayer, and the remembrance of ALLAH.

Moreover, the messenger of ALLAH would prepare himself to be more diligent in worship, particularly when the last ten nights of Ramadan began. He would keep awake at night for prayer and devotion, and awaken his family. Narrated Aishah. “When the last ten nights (of Ramadan) began, ALLAH’s messenger would keep awake at night (for prayer and devotion), awaken his family and prepare himself to be more diligent in worship.” (Muslim)

In another version of the Hadith, Aishah said; “ALLAH’s messenger used to strive more (in worship) during the last ten nights of Ramadan than he did during other time.” (Muslim)

Therefore, we also endeavor in these last ten days to devout ourselves in worshipping ALLAH, and seeking his forgiveness.

10.  SPECIAL INVOCATION FOR THE NIGHT OF DECREE

Aishah said, “I asked ALLAH’s messenger: ‘O messenger of ALLAH! If I realize the night of decree, what should I supplicate in it?’ he replied, ‘you should supplicate:  Allahumma innaka Afuwwun, Tuhibbul-Afwa Fa’fu anni’

O ALLAH! Your are the most forgiving and you love forgiveness; so forgive me.’” (Al-Tirmidhi, graded authentic by shaikh Al-Albani in Sahih Sunan At-Tirmidhi, no. 2789)

11.  PERFORMING UMRAH DURING RAMADAN

Performing Umrah in Ramadan is especially virtuous. Narrated Umm Sanan Al-Ansariyah The Prophet said to a woman: “perform Umrah when Ramadan comes, for Umrah in Ramadan is equal to Hajj (in reward).” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

In another version, with Al-Bukhari; ALLAH’s messenger said to her: “… as it is equal to Hajj with me (in reward).”  (Al-Bukhari)

12.   TO INCREASE THE INVOCATION

ALLAH, the most high has encouraged supplication, as we read in the noble Qur’an, while he mentions the issues and rules pertaining to the blessed month of Ramadan. ALLAH says:

“And when my servants ask you (O Muhammad) concerning me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey me and believe in me, so that they may be led a right.”   (2: 186)

In a  Hadith, ALLAH’s messenger said: “the supplication of a servant continues to be granted as long as he does not supplicate for a sinful thing or for something that would cut off the ties of kinship, and he does not grow impatient.” It was said, “O ALLAH’s messenger! What does growing impatient mean?” he said, “it is one’s saying, ‘I supplicated again and again, but I do not think that my prayer will be answered.’ Then he becomes frustrated (in such circumstances) and gives up supplication altogether.”  (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

The Prophet mentioned a person who is wandering, lost; his hair is disheveled and covered with dust. He lifts his hand towards the sky and thus makes the supplication:

          “O lord! O lord! But his food is unlawful, his drink is unlawful, his clothes are unlawful. And his nourishment is unlawful, how can, then his supplication he accepted?” (Muslim)

It is very obvious that there are certain conditions and manners to be met in order for our supplications to be granted, as mentioned in the following Hadith. Additionally, whoever observes these rules, then he will reap more reward for his actions. ALLAH’s messenger said:      

“whenever a Muslim supplicates – no for sin nor breaking the ties of kinship – ALLAH responds to his supplication in one of three ways. Either his invocation will be answered quickly, or deferred (its reward) from him into the hereafter, or a similar kind of trouble will be averted from him.” Upon this they (companions) said, “what if we ask for a lot?” ALLAH’s messenger said, ALLAH is more plentiful in responding“(Imam Ahmed, and a similar version by Al-Tirmidhi which was graded authentic in Saikh Al-Jami As-Saghir, no. 5714.)

13.  EXCELLENCE OF SUPPLICATING IN ONE’S ABSENCE

People should not only supplicate on their own behalf, but they should also increase in prayer for their friends, relatives and neighbors, in their absence, with sincere heart.

ALLAH’s messenger said; “The supplication of a Muslim for his (Muslim) brother in his absence will certainly be answered. Every time he makes a supplication for good for his brother, the angel appointed for this particular task says ‘ameen! (May it be for you, too).”   (Muslim)

14.  TO AVOID INVOKING CURSES

The human being is naturally feeble-minded and impatient. Once he feels uncomfortable of faces disturbance from anyone, he immediately invokes curses on others, sometimes even on his own children or himself. ALLAH’s messenger said; “do no invoke curses on yourself or on your children, or on your possessions, lest you should happen to do it at a moment when the supplications are accepted, and you prayer might be granted.” (Muslim)

15.  SUPPLICATION OF THE OPPRESSED

It is of paramount importance to remember that no Muslim should unjustly hurt and does not oppress another Muslim, nor any human being, since the supplication of the oppressed is instantly answerable from ALLAH. ALLAH’s messenger said: “Beware of the supplication of the oppressed, for there is no barrier between him and ALLAH.” (Al-Bukhari)

16.  FULFILL THE OBLIGATIONS AND SHUN THE EVIL DEEDS

This month is a special month for seeking forgiveness, repentance, and mercy from ALLAH. In other words, every Muslim should endeavor to abide in repentance to ALLAH, by which ALLAH will excuse his minor sins. Meanwhile, as far as the human rights are concerned, there will be no pardon unless these are fulfilled in this world, case by case. For instance, if you have stolen from someone, you must reimburse him for it. If you abused him or slandered him, you should approach him asking his pardon and apology. If you have possessed some land illegally of have some materials that do not really belong to you, then you must return the same to its proper proprietor. Despite the proper manners, if the rights of others are not fulfilled, then one’s repentance and supplications are not acceptable. Similarly, if he neglected the commandments of ALLAH, being disobedient in all dealings with him, for instance, he takes bribes, or earns money from usury and interest, of deals in illegitimate and forbidden business, of makes deals by swearing with false testimony, lies and threats. These are all evil actions that must be abandoned. Otherwise, ALLAH will not respond to you supplication.

17.  AVOID MUTUAL ENMITY, GRUDGES AND MALICE

It is very essential, to be eligible for ALLAH’s mercy and forgiveness, that we keep away from mutual enmity, holding grudges with each other, having malice towards each other, and we must not break the ties of kinship. If one of us severed relationships due to a dispute over worldly affairs, then we should immediately reconcile unselfishly, and excuse each other for the sake of the relationship. Otherwise, ALLAH will not respond to our player, preventing us from his mercy and forgiveness.

ALLAH’s messenger said; “the gates of paradise are opened on Mondays and Thursdays, then every servant (of ALLAH) is granted forgiveness if he does not associate anything with ALLAH in worship. But the person in whose heart there is rancor against his (Muslim) brother, they will not be pardoned. It will be said about them; ‘hold both of them until they reconcile with each other.’”   (Muslim)

From this Hadith, it is very obvious that mutual enmity and malice between Muslims are grave sins, and therefore they must be shunned. Because of the consequences of these behaviors, ALLAH’s messenger has warned the Muslim from breaking his relationship with another Muslim, and persistently shunning his Muslim brother for more than three consecutive days.    

Beard In Islam

Beard

Shaikh 'Abdur-Rahman As-Sa'idi stated that the Prophet Muhammad Peace Be Upon Him ordered us to trim our mustaches

and grow our beards. He also informed us that to trim it (facial hair) is from the Majus and the polytheists; He warned his nation from following that misguided custom. So, truly it is strange that we see someone who believes in Allah and His Messenger, yet is stingy in following the example of the Prophet Peace Be Upon Him, the Companions, and the Tabi'een (successors of the Companions), Allah has honored men with beards and has made their beauty and character appears in it, so woe to the one who shaves it, for he has disobeyed his Lord openly, Do all of those that shave their beards think that they have achieved a handsome appearance? Surely, they have not, since it shames the face of a man and takes away from its nobility. Following the misguided example of others often makes evil things seem comely. Did the people of knowledge not say that if anyone attacked another by shaving his beard and that if it did not ever grow again, then upon the attacker is the responsibility of paying full blood money? This illustrates the honor and good that Allah (the Exalted) has placed in men who keep beards. In parallel to the previous example, imagine the state of one who assaults his own honor and dignity by removing his beard.

Food as Medicine

The Prophet’s guidance on neutralizing the harm of various foods and fruits

In the Hadith book it is narrated that 'Abdullah bin Ja'far said, "I saw the Messenger of Allah Said, eat ripe dates with cucumbers.

Ripe dates are hot in the second degree, increase sexual desire and add strength to the cold stomach. However, ripe dates rot quickly, induce thirst, harm the teeth, spoil the blood and cause headaches, various clogs and pain in the prostate.

Cucumbers are cold and wet in the second degree and they prevent thirst, have a refreshing aroma and cool the stomach.' When the seeds of the cucumbers are dried then crushed and is boiled with water, they produce a drink that will quench the thirst, help produce urine and soothe the pain in the prostate. When cucumber seeds are crushed and then sifted, they will whiten the teeth when brushed with it. Further, when cucumber plant leaves are crushed and blended with raisin jelly and used as a bandage, they will help against the bite of a hydrophobic dog.

In general , dates are hot while cucumbers are cool, and each is suitable for the other and also neutralizes each other's harm. This is a type of balancing off the harm of one substance by combining it with its opposite or antidote , and these are the goals that preventive science seeks to achieve. In fact, these are the goals that the science of medicine as a whole seeks to achieve.

Combining the foods or medicines with their antidotes or opposites makes the product milder and rids it of any harmful side effects. Consequently, the body will preserve its health, strength and wellbeing.

'Aishah  may Allah be please with her, the mother of believers once said, "They tried to make me fatter using every type of food, but I did not get fatter. But when they fed me ripe dates and cucumbers, I became fatter."

In short, neutralizing the effect of the hot substance with the cold, the cold with the hot, and the dry with the wet and the wet with the dry produces a milder substance that is considered among the best remedies and preventive measures. Prophet's has said, concerning blending Senna and Sanoot (honey and butter) that this method will make the Senna milder. May Allah bestow His peace and blessings on him, who was sent with all that brings life to the hearts and bodies and what brings about their benefit in this life and the Hereafter?

The Prophet’s guidance on treating various illnesses with food and medicine the body is used to

This is also one of the major pillars and the most beneficial parts of the science of medicine. We have stated that this is a pillar of the science of medicine, as the best medical authorities concur. For instance, the renowned Arab doctor, Al Harith bin Kaladah , said, "Diet is the best cure; and the stomach is the home of diseases; give each body what it is accustomed to (of food and medicine) ." In another statement, Al-Harith said, 'Azm is a cure,' [meaning hunger}. In fact, going on a diet is a better cure for plethoric illnesses (having an excess of blood in the body and therefore looking reddish), except when there is a fear that the condition would flare up with septic accumulation and aggravate the illness.

Al-Harith stated that the stomach is the seat or home of diseases. The stomach is a curved organ that looks like a gourd and consists of three layers of delicate and neural components called fibers and surrounded by flesh. The fibers of one layer are arranged longitudinally, while the second layer's fibers are horizontal and the third slanting. The tip of the stomach has more nerves, while the bottom has more flesh and its interior is coated and fuzzy. The stomach is located in the middle of the abdomen, leaning more to the right side, created in this shape by the wisdom of the All-Wise Creator.

The stomach is indeed the residence of the ailments; it is the center of the Digestion and maturing process of all food and drink. After that, the digested food descends to the liver and the intestines. Meanwhile, excess amounts of partially digested substances that the stomach was not able to completely digest remain - either because the amount of nourishment was excessive, spoiled, or was not consumed in the Proper order - or all of these reasons. Some of this undigested food remains in the stomach and the body is not be able to completely discard them, and this is why the stomach is the residence of ailments. AI-Harith indicates the importance of eating less food and preventing the heart from fulfilling its desires.

As for one's being accustomed [to certain things and foods] it is a part of the human nature. Habit has such a great influence on the person and on his body, that if we conduct an experiment on several people who have the same characteristics, the result will vary considerably. For instance, three young, hot-tempered men, one of them is used to eating hot foods, the second is used to cold foods, while the third man is accustomed to mild foods. When the first person eats honey, it would not harm him, unlike the second person, while the third person would be slightly bothered. Habit, therefore, is an important basis on which preserving the health and healing ailments relies. That is why the Prophet ~ said that each person should be treated according to what he is accustomed to of medicine and food .

The Prophets guidance on treating the sick with the simplest types of food

We mentioned that observing the habits and customs of a certain sick person benefits them with a favorable cure and nourishment. The people in Madinah were accustomed to eating barley soup ground not whole, thus making it more nutritious and beneficial for them. The doctors in cities recommend the use of whole barley grains, because the soup in this case is lighter and easier for the ailing person to digest.

The people who live in cities are used to comfort and an easy life and that is why ground barley grain is heavy on their stomachs . Whole grain barley soup is digested quickly, provides good nutrition, and cleanses the stomach, especially when taken while it is still hot.

In this case, its cleansing and digestive qualities are stronger and the soup will also develop its instinctive heat quicker and will soften the outer layers of the stomach.

The Prophet's statement that the milk-like soup takes away some of the sadness refers to the effect of sadness on the mood and in weakening the instinctive wellbeing of a person, which in turn affects the soul and the heart. Milk-like soup brings strength to one's inner energy and thus the body will be able to rid itself of the sadness and grief that has taken over it.

We could also say that some foods bring relief to the heart, such as the type of soup mentioned above, because they possess a special quality that affects people's mood and brings them relief and comfort. And Allah knows best.

We might also say that the sick person's strength becomes weaker because of his grief and sadness that translates to dryness in the body and the stomach due to the scarcity of food. The milk-like soup brings wetness and strength to the stomach, which will also bring relief to the heart. The sick person may complain from an accumulation of harmful flatulence or phlegm in his stomach. The milk-like soup will dissolve these harmful substances or dilute them, so that the pain and harm they cause are diminished, especially for those accustomed to eating barley bread, such as the people of Madinah. During that time, barley bread was the staple diet for the people of Madinah as wheat was scarce at that time.

How to treat Headaches

The Prophet’s guidance on treating headaches and migraines

Headaches are defined as pain that appears in some part of the Head or all of it, but when the headache afflicts one side of the head, it is called migraine. The type that attacks the entire head is sometimes called a helmet, for it resembles the helmet that covers the head.

Furthermore, headaches sometimes afflict only the back or the front side of the head.

There are many types of headaches that result from various conditions. Headaches usually start when the head becomes hot due to the pressure of a septic vapor that accumulates near the head and which seeks a way out of the body, but fails . Then, the pressure of the vapor intensifies, just as a pot when it is heated but the steam is not able to escape from it. It is a fact that when moisture heats up, it seeks more space to expand. Similarly, the vapor accumulates near the head and then causes a headache in the entire head because it is unable to expand or escape from the body as it heats up. This condition causes a type of dizziness.

There are various specific causes for headaches:

When one of the four essential conditions (coldness, hotness, dryness and wetness) becomes predominant

Ulcers of the stomach cause headaches, because the cephalic (relating to the head) nerves and the stomach are connected. Thick flatulence might accumulate in the stomach then later ascend to the head and cause headaches. Headaches are sometimes caused by a tumor in the gastric veins that cause pain in the head, because the stomach and the head are connected.

When the stomach is full of food it sometimes provokes headaches, as some of the food remains undigested. Headaches sometimes occur after sexual intercourse because the body will then be weakened and thus exposed to the heat of the air. Headaches sometimes occur after vomiting due to excessive dryness, or to accumulating gaseous materials (flatulence) that ascend to the head from the stomach.

Sometimes hot weather and air provoke headaches. Headaches are sometimes caused by the cold weather and from the vapor that accumulates in the head and which is unable to decompose. Not having enough sleep also causes headaches. Headaches are sometimes caused due to the pressure exerted on the head, such as when one carries a heavy object on his head. Excessive talking sometimes weakens the mind in a way that causes headaches.

Strenuous movements and sports activity can also provoke headaches. Sadness, depression, obsession and evil thoughts also provoke headaches. Excessive hunger provokes headaches, as in this case; the excess gaseous materials (flatulence) that accumulate in the stomach ascend to the brain and provoke headaches.

Those who suffer from a tumor in the cerebral lining sometimes feel as if hammers are constantly pounding on their heads. Fever also provokes headaches because of the intense heat that the body suffers from them. And Allah knows best. Headaches result from changes in the system that affects the cerebral blood vessels.

The weaker side of the brain will accept septic material and the migraine headache will be accompanied by pulsation in the arteries. The pain can be relieved in this case when one tiesa bandage so that the pulsing of the arteries is stopped and thus the pain is lessened.

Abu Naim (may Allah have mercy upon him) said in his book on Prophetic Medicine that migraine headaches used to afflict the Prophet and that it would prevent him from going out of his house for one or two days at a time. Also, Abu Nalm related from Ibn 'Abbasthat he said, " Once, the Messenger of Allah delivered a speech while a cloth was tied around his head. "

The Sahih states that the Prophet Peace Be Upon Him said during the illness that preceded his death ‘O my head!" He used to tie a piece of cloth around his head. Tying a piece of cloth around the head helps soothe the pain of headaches and migraines.

Treating headaches varies to their type and Causes

Hence, headaches could be relieved by inducing vomiting, eating, being calm and staying inactive, using cold compresses, cooling the body, elevating the temperature, avoiding noise, etc.

Knowing these facts, we should mention that treating headaches with Henna is partial and that it cures only some types of headache. If the headache is caused by high fever and not a spoiled substance that requires extraction, Henna helps soothe the headache somewhat. Crushed Henna blended with vinegar and applied to the forehead will relieve the headache.

Henna also soothes the nerves when used as a bandage. Finally, Henna is not only favorable to relieve headaches, but also for the various organs of the body and for the hot tumors and inflammations when used as a bandage.

Henna is cold in the first degree and dry in the second degree. The Henna tree has two special qualities: decomposing due to its warm watery essence, and constipating due to the cold earthly essence it contains.

Henna is useful in treating bums and soothes the nerves when used as a bandage, as we have stated. When chewed, Henna can helps treat cankers and thrush that appear in the mouth. Henna also heals stomatitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth) that appear in the child’s mouth. Using Henna to bandage hot tumors also helps, as it has a similar effect on open sores as the dragon’s blood tree has on them. When the Henna flower is blended with pure wax and rose oil, it helps against the aches of the side (Thatul Janb).

When the symptoms of smallpox start to break out on children and Henna is then applied on the bottom of their feet, the eyes will be immune from the sores that accompany smallpox. When the flower of the Henna is placed between wool clothes , it will perfume it and will prevent mold or mites. Furthermore, when the leaves of the Henna are submerged in fresh water, then squeezed and drunk for forty days, twenty measures each day along with ten measures of sugar while eating the meat of a young ewe, it prevents leprosy with its amazing qualities .

We · were told that a man once complained from fissuring in his fingers and that he offered monetary rewards to whoever could cure him, but to no avail. Later ,,4 I' on, a woman prescribed for him a drink of Henna for ten days but he could not stand the idea of drinking it. Later on, he soaked Henna leaves in water and drank the water and his fingers were healed and regained their beauty.

Henna is also used as an ointment for the fingers, as it polishes and strengthens them. Henna is also useful when blended with butter and then used as a bandage for the hot tumors that drain yellow residue.

Henna also benefits against chronic mange, helps the hair grow, makes it stronger and strengthens the head. Finally, Henna helps against the blisters and the pustules that appear on the legs and feet and the rest of the body in general.

The Prophet’s guidance on treating pain in general with Islamic prayer formulas

Muslim ( Ibn Ma'jah, Ahmad and At-Tabarani) narrated in his Sahih that 'Uthman bin Abu Al-'Aas complained to the Prophet from a pain in his body that he suffered from ever since he became a Muslim. The Prophet said: Peace Be Upon Him

Place your hand on the affected area in your body and say, 'In the Name of Allah,' thrice. Then say, 'I seek refuge with Allah’s Might and Power from the evil of what I am suffering from, and because of which I have become wary', seven times. "

The remedy mentioned here entails reciting Allah’s Name, relating all matters to Him and seeking refuge with His Might and Power from the pain, and will surely eradic ate the pain. Also, repeating the supplication contained in the remedy frequently will make it even more effective and successful just as the case when the medication is frequently administered until the disease is fully eradicated.

In the Sahiha in it is narrated that the Prophet used to visit some of his family members (who were ill) and would touch them with his right hand, saying:

"0 Allah, the Lord of mankind! 00 away with the complaint and bring about the cure. You Alone bring the cure, and there is no cure except Your cure, a cure that does not leave illnesses."

The last Islamic prayer formula includes begging Allah by His Perfect Lordship and Mercy to bring about the cure. The Islamic prayer formula also affirms that Allah is the only One Who brings the cure and that there is no cure except the cure that He brings about. The Islamic prayer formula includes begging Allah by His Oneness, Kindness and Lordship.

Henna is extensively used from the old ages. Originally Henna is Iranian plant presently grown across middle east and Indian Subcontinent.

There are number of uses of Henna. The leaves are used for coloring and medicinal purpose. Flower is used for fragrance. It is very costly natural fragrance used in Arab World. Every part of the Henna has medicinal use.

Henna leaves plaster is used very good in controlling body temperature and also blood pressure. Because of its nature, it is extensively used in for medicinal purpose.