Monday 24 December 2012

The Difference Between Evil Eye and Envy – Shaikh ibn ul-Uthaymeen

Written by Abu Muadh Taqweem Aslam on . Posted in Belief - 'Aqeedah', Monotheism - Tawheed


A very beneficial advice from Shaikh ibn ul-Uthaymeen for all those afflicted by evil eye or envy of others, and to all those who are afflicted by whispers causing them distress in this regard.

Q: “What is the difference between the evil eye and envy and how do we protect ourselves from them?”

A: “There is no practical difference , but the origin of the evil eye is from envy, that is because the one who causes the evil eye – and we seek refuge in Allah – has in his heart envy for the servants of Allah and he does not love any good for anyone. If therefore he sees something from a person that pleases him and he is envious then this emotion eminates from him and afflicts the individual he envies, and that is why Allah said, “و من شر حاسد إذا حسد – And from the evil of the envier when he envies”.

As for protection from the evil of the envier and the evil eye:

1 – Trust and dependence in Allah, and that a person does not turn to these affairs and give them importance and concern, rather he shuns away from them.

2 – Using the beneficial supplications mentioned in the Qur’an and Sunnah for they are the best of protection for a person, just like what has been authenticated from the prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم regarding Ayat ul-Kursee and that the one who recites it at night then there will not cease to be a protector upon him and shaytaan will not approach him until he awakens in the morning.

Regarding this I say this point – The imaginations and misconceptions [whisperings] have increased in people in recent times, so they consider [if anything occurs] it must be evil eye, magic or jinn, to the extent if some of them catch a cold they will say “it is evil eye, magic or jinn”[!]. Turn and shun away from all this [such thoughts] and instead trust and depend in Allah. Do not entertain such whispers so they may depart from you, for indeed whenever a person allows a thought to enter his mind he becomes preoccupied by it, and if only he were to ignore it so it would depart from him and he would not be afflicted by harm. This is like if a person is afflicted by an injury, if he was to ignore it and preoccupy himself with other affairs he would forget the injury and not be focused on the pain,  however if he focuses on it he feels the pain.”

[Summarized from Shaikh ibn ul-Uthaymeen's official website via Sahab]

Grapes: A favor from the Bestower

 

 

Grapes (Arb: 'Inab) 

Allah, the Bestower  mentions grapes eight times in the Qur'aan, as one of the innumerable favors He bestowed upon His creation. Grapes are fruits found both on the earth and in paradise according to The Noble Book and Prophetic traditions. 

First, it is mentioned in Surah Al Anaam: 99  

" And out of the date¬palm and its spathe come forth clusters of dates hanging low and near, and gardens of grapes, olives and pomegranates, each similar (in kind) yet different (in variety and taste). Look at their fruits when they begin to bear, and the ripeness thereof. Verily! In these things there are signs for people who believe." (99) 

Second, we can find it mentioned in Surah An-Nahl:11 

 "With it He causes to grow for you the crops, the olives, the date-palms, the grapes, and every kind of fruit. Verily! In this is indeed an evident proof and a manifest sign for people who give thought."(11)

Third, we can find grapes mentioned in Surah An-Nahl:67 

 "And from the fruits of date-palms and grapes, you derive strong drink and a goodly provision. Verily, therein is indeed a sign for people who have wisdom." (67)


Here in Surah YaSeen:34, 35 "And We have made therein gardens of date-palms and grapes, and We have caused springs of water to gush forth therein. (34) So that they may eat of the fruit thereof,— and their hands made it not. Will they not, then, give thanks?"(35)

 Again, it is mentioned in Surah 'Abasaa: 28 "And grapes and clover plants (i.e. green fodder for the cattle), (28) And olives and date-palms, (29) And gardens, dense with many trees, (30) And fruits and herbage. (31) (To be) a provision and benefit for you and your cattle."

I have recounted five of the eight here. The other places grapes can be found in the Noble Qur'aan are Surah Al-Israa: 91; Surah Al-Kahf:32 and  Surah Al-Mu'minoon:19.  

 From these evidences we can see that grapes have been provided for us to eat. They can be eaten fresh, dried, ripe or even cooked. Grapes can be classified as a fruit, food, a condiment, a drink and a medicine. Botanically, grapes are classified as berries. Domesticated grapes grow in clusters and they range in color from pale green to black ( see the picture above). Green grapes are the sweetest when the color has a yellowish cast, and they are more nutritious than the black variety, even if they are equally sweet.  

In  Medicine of the Prophet, Ibn Al-Qayyim  states that it is better  and more nutritious to eat grapes two or three days old, (when the skin becomes soft),than those harvested on the same day. When eaten the same day of harvesting they produce flatulence and gas in the stomach and intestines. Otherwise, the nutritional benefits of table grapes are similar to those of figs and raisins. . 

Grapes are categorized as one of the 'Three Royal Fruits: namely grapes, figs and dates'.  

Health benefits of eating grapes:  

  • inhibit the growth of cancer cells

  • heart protective antioxidants found in grape seeds such as  proanthocyanidin and resveratrol,contain anti-inflammatory proponents

  • scientists have discovered that the flavonoid, carotenoid lycopene found in red grapes may help fight breast cancer and prostate cancer

  • assist in weight gaining

  • increase body tone

  • seedless grapes have a gentle purgative effect

 

Recipe Spotlight:    Greens with Grapes (courtesy of http://www.freshcaliforniagrapes.com)

Grapes Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup California seedless red grapes, cut in half
3 cups greens, such as radicchio, escarole, frisee, watercress or dandelion greens, or a mix of these, well washed
1 tablespoon red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/8 teaspoon salt
black pepper to taste

Directions

Place the grapes, greens and onion in a large bowl. Dress with vinegar, oil, salt and pepper. Toss gently and serve.

 

 

 

 

Wednesday 19 December 2012

World of Jinn & Magic - by Abu 'Iyaad Amjad Rafiq


Part 1;



Part 2;



Abu 'Iyaad Amjad Rafiq's presentation slides in which there are images of tahweez, the symbols used by magicians, their clothing/garb etc. can be downloaded from here - http://www.learnaboutislam.co.uk/2011/06/26/world-of-jinn-magic/

Ruqyah verses PDF 1 - http://www.dajjaal.com/liar/assets/docs/islamic-ruqyah-magicians.pdf

Ruqyah verses PDF 2 - http://www.dajjaal.com/liar/assets/docs/islamic-ruqyah.pdf

Allah Azzawajal is our Guardian in both the Worlds.

Friday 14 December 2012

Costus: Indian Aloe Wood

Anas, Allah be pleased with him, narrated that Allah's Messenger, may the peace and the blessings of Allah be upon him, said: " Some of the best treatments lie in cupping and Kistroot." 
Reported in Sahih Muslim and Sahih Al Bukhaaree, Cf. Cauterization and Cupping, VI; Venesection and Cauterization , VII

Narrated Umm Qais, Allah be pleased with her: 

I went to Allah's Apostle along with a a son of mine whose palate and tonsils I had pressed with my finger as a treatment for a (throat and tonsil) disease. The Prophet said, "Why do you pain your children by pressing their throats! Use Oud Al-Hindi ( Indian aloe wood) for it cures seven diseases, one of which is pleurisy. It is used as a snuff for treating throat and tonsil disease and it is inserted into one side of the mouth of one suffering from pleurisy." 
Sahih Al Bukhaaree, Book of Medicine  no. 5343

There are two kinds of Qust-roots ( Arb. Qust/Kist): 1. the white root of medicinal plant known as the common inula, Arb. Raasin Tibbi; and 2. the aromatic root of Indian aloe tree ( Arb. 'Oud Hindi), commonly known as aloe. 

Qust/'Oud al Hindi/Indian Aloe Wood
 Pictures courtesy of
Yunus Bin Shaddaad Al-Azdi
Inula/Rasin Tibbi/Qust
Kust-roots or costus, commonly known as Indian aloe have hot and dry temperaments in the third degree and provide extra heat. While the white variety, known as the common inula is balmier. Both provide considerable medicinal effects.

  •  Both roots dry out excess phlegm, and help remedy head cold, or acute nasal congestion (catarrh; Arb. zukaam). 
  • Drinking an infusion of costus helps weakness of the liver, weakness of digestion, slackness of the stomach, stomach flu, diarrhea of the liver; and helps as an antipyretic to abate febris recurrence, quells quartan phlegmonous fever.
  • An ointment of it helps backache, or rheumatic pain in the lumbar region (lumbago); also kills ringworm, and to remove dry scales shed by the skin, including dandruff.
  • Costus also can help spasmodic contractions and rigidity of voluntary muscles (tetanus).
  • Costus is used in the treatment of pleurisy.  
  • Costus roots also help asthmatic symptoms and heaviness of the chest. 
  • An inunction of costus mixed with water and honey helps to control skin discoloration on the face and the chest resulting from pregnancy or malnutrition. Also helps the removal of scars, surgical or otherwise. 
  • Be sure to look for costus in shops which sell Indian foods and spices. Some herbal shops might carry this medicinal plant  as well. If not available in your area, search the internet for more information as to how you can obtain it. 

May the Creator give you the best of health and well-being. 

Tuesday 11 September 2012

Sweet Marjoram: Not just a culinary herb

                    Author: Forest & Kim Starr (Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported)


Sweet Marjoram (Arab. Marzanjoosh), botanically known as Origana Marjorana hortensis is a perennial subshrub of the mint family. Its fragrant, fresh or dried leaves are widely used for flavoring many of the meat and fish dishes found in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. When cooking, sweet marjoram leaves can be added to soups, stews, tomato sauce, stuffing, legumes and vegetables. Its aromatic leaves combine well with olive oil, vinegar and a pinch of salt for a light salad dressing.  

The culinary uses of marjoram abound, but it also contains various medicinal properties . As recorded in  Ibnul Qayyim's Medicine of the Prophet:
  •  Smelling it: Marjoram helps to expel gases from the stomach, increases the power of smell and reduces the pain to trifacial neuralgia. Smelling the plant also abates cold headache and other types of headache caused by in-temperament of the phlegm and black bile (humors). 

  • Drinking it: Both marjoram and wild marjoram ( Origanum vulgaris) drank as an herbal tea are used to treat indigestion, nausea, cold symptoms, and abdominal pain. Marjoram also reduces the pain of menstrual cramps, stimulates menstrual period, helps fetation and fertility. It relieves backache, pain of the knee, and it is excellent for relieving exhaustion and loss of strength. 

  • Applying it: A fomentation of grounded marjoram leaves relieves swelling and redness of the inner layers of the eye. An inunction of marjoram mixed with vinegar also can be used in the treatment of scorpion sting.
For those of you who might be interested in growing marjoram in your own kitchen garden, here are some links below.

http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/herb/tips-for-growing-marjoram.htm
 http://www.vegetablegardener.com/item/11814/growing-oregano-in-the-kitchen-herb-garden

Monday 25 June 2012

Tips for fasting healthily and successfully during Ramadhan.


Millions of worshippers offering Taraweeh Prayer during Ramadhan in Masjid'il Haram
The blessed month of Ramadhan is considered by Muslims to be the month of mercy, patience and forgiveness in which the Tranquility of Allah Azzawajal decends upon His servants.  

The fast of Ramadhan is absolute in the sense that Muslims are prohibited from the Halaal (consuming any kind of food or drink, engaging in intimate relations, and talking excessively) as well as the Haraam (the major and minor sins which include lying or backbiting and smoking) from early dawn to dusk for a period of 30 days.

The Fast assists the increase in righteousness and dutifulness to The Creator through practicing restraint of our actions, emotions and general self (nafs).  

Allah the Almighty commanded the Muslims to fast in Ramadhan. The Blessed Qur’an says (translation of the meaning);

"Oh you who believe! Observing fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you [of the people of the Book, meaning Christians and Jews], so that you may become pious." 
[2.183]

In this verse Allah The Exalted is highlighting that the fasting prescribed for previous nations is like an encouragement and motivation for Muslims and that Siyaam (fasting) is a well established method of attaining Taqwa (piety) and inner peace.

And also;

"The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, 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), he must observe fasts that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe (fasts) must be made up] from other days..." 

[2.185]

Although fasting for a month may initially seem tough, particularly when the days are longer due to Ramadhan falling over the summer months, fasting is not really that hard. Your body soon gets used to the changes, and from a health point of view, it is well documented that the fasting process allows the body to detoxify and repair itself.

So what steps can we take to make fasting as spiritually and physically beneficial as possible?

Get into the habit of fasting beforehand.


Fasting at regular intervals throughout the year in the build up to Ramadhan will by the Grace of Allah Almighty provide immeasurable blessings and rewards and can also help the human body to be better prepared for 30 days of abstinence from food and drink.

Muslims are recommended to fast outside of Ramadhan if they are able. It was the Sunnah of the Blessed Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) to fast on Mondays and Thursdays every week, and also during the 13th, 14th and 15th of every lunar month. He (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) also fasted on the Day of Al Arafah and encouraged his nation to fast on the first six days of the month of Shawwal.

More info on voluntary fasting can be found here.

The sighting of the Hilal (new crescent moon) heralding the blessed month of Ramadhan.


The new crescent moon
Whomsoever has an unobstructed view of the horizon to the west is encouraged to go out on the evening of the 29th and/or 30th of Sha'baan to try and sight the new crescent. It will be located close to where the sun has just set and will only stay visible for a few moments after sunset. The testimony of a multitude of people upon the sighting of the Hilal is better than the testimony of just one person.

Muslims are encouraged to congregate and congratulate each other upon the sighting of the Hilal, welcoming the blessed month and seeking Allah Tala's Bounty.

Perfecting the Niyyah (intention) for fasting.


The Niyyah (intention) to fast is a required condition of obligatory fasts (such as that of Ramadhan).
It should be made within the heart (not aloud) and should be based on pleasing Allah'Tala and earning His forgiveness, rather than a desire to lose weight (!). The Niyyah for Ramadhan can be made only once at the beginning of the month and does not have to be repeated on each night before each days fast. The Niyyah can be made at any point during the night right up to a moment before the Fajr prayer on the first day of the month.

Awaking for Sehri (pre dawn meal).


The blessings of the Ramadhan pre-dawn meal are immeasurable and it is the one act which makes the fasting of Muslims distinct from the fasting of the two religions of the Book and although it may seem difficult to get out of bed so early in the mornings, it’s well worth doing so. If you find it beneficial, upon awaking you can wash your face and hands with cold water to help drive away the sleepiness.

Abu Hurairah (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) as saying, "How good is the believers meal of dates shortly before dawn."
Sunan Abi Dawood Book 13, Hadith 2338. Classed as Sahih by Sh. Al Albani (rahimullah).

And also;

'Amr b. al-'As (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated the Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) as saying, "The difference between our fasting and that of the people of the Book is eating shortly before dawn."
Sunan Abi Dawood Book 13, Hadith 2336. Classed as Sahih by Sh. Al Albani (rahimullah).

The blessings of Sehri are so great that it’s not worth missing out on them. After all, none of us know with certainty whether Allah’Tala will bless us with another visitation of Ramadhan next year. Many thousands of Muslims are taken from the World before they can welcome this sacred month again.

Filling the stomach with a large meal at Sehri is not recommended as it will have the effect of making you feel increased hunger during the day and lethargy in the early afternoon. Instead, have a small snack, for example perhaps some fruit, a slice of wholemeal toast, maybe a small paratha or a boiled egg. Protein-rich food choices are better than carbohydrates as they take longer to digest and so should keep you feeling fuller for longer. Don’t forget to have a drink to keep your fluid levels topped up. After eating and drinking in sha’Allah, you will soon feel refreshed and peaceful and ready to start the day.

When eating and drinking, consider the following points;


The Blessed Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) instructed his Ummah to compartmentalize their stomachs into three, whereby they should eat as much as that which will be enough for the first part. Then they should drink as much as that which will be enough for the second part. The third part should be left empty to aid easy breathing. This clearly indicates that the bad habit a lot of Muslims employ of stuffing themselves with food at Iftaar is not beneficial for spiritual or physical well being.


Miqdam bin Madikarib (radhi Allahu anhu) said, “I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) say:‘A human being fills no worse vessel than his stomach. It is sufficient for a human being to eat a few mouthfuls to keep his spine straight. But if he must (fill it), then one third of food, one third for drink and one third for air.’”
Sunan Ibn Majah Book 29, Hadith 3474; classed as Sahih by Darussalaam

It is also greatly beneficial to make use of Sunnah foods and medicines, such as dates, milk, honey, black seed oil, talbinah porridge, barley bread, melon, cucumber etc.

Tea and Coffee can dehydrate rather than hydrate
When Ramadhan falls over the summer months, a key consideration for Muslims is to ensure that they stay as hydrated as possible. Phasing out the consumption of caffeinated drinks will help. Avoid drinking tea/coffee at Sehri and Iftaar as they tend to dehydrate rather than hydrate. Mineral water or unsweetened fruit juices are a better choice. A glass of cold Nabeez is even better than this and it was a drink favoured by Rasool'Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

Break your fast with a date.


Ajwa dates from the blessed city of Medinah, Saudi Arabia
The fast is to be broken immediately after sun has set (a moment before the Azhaan for the Maghrib prayer). In a Hadith narrated by Anas Ibn Maalik (radhi Allahu anhu), he says, "The Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) used to break his fast with fresh dates before praying [maghrib], if fresh dates were not available, he would [eat] dried dates, if dried dates were not available, he would have a few sips of water."
Jami' at Tirmithi Vol. 2, Book 3, Hadith 696. Classed as Hasan.
http://sunnah.com/tirmidhi/8/15

Focus on Prayer and be aware of your words and deeds.



Disconnecting from TV, radio, newspapers and the Internet (particularly social networking) can help you stay focused on the purpose of your fasting. You will be less tempted to spend the blessed time in a wasteful manner. Staying up for a portion of the night, particularly the last third and engaging in Taraweeh is also strongly encouraged.

The night prayer in Ramadhan has a special consideration different from any other time of the year. Imams Bukhari and Muslim reported that the blessed Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, "Whoever offers optional congregational prayers (like Taraweeh prayers) throughout the nights of Ramadan, believing in Allah and seeking His rewards, will have his previous sins forgiven."
[Muslim Book 9, Hadith 1188] Riyaad us Saliheen in the Book of Virtues

Qiyyam of the nights of Ramadan includes the early as well as the late night. So the Taraweeh is considered from the Qiyaam of Ramadhan and so we should perform it.

It was called Taraweeh because the Companions of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and the successors to the Companions used to make a lengthy standing in them and they would take rest by sitting only after offering every four Rak'ah. This is how these came to be named Taraweeh (Rest prayer). (A set of four Rak'ah are called 'Tarweehah').

Increasing Du'a (supplications).


Ramadhan holds the promise of the acceptance of Du'as to a much greater degree than at any other time of the year. The best times to offer Du'a are in the last third of the night, a special hour on Fridays or between the Azhaan and the Iqaamah of the Jummu'ah prayer and at the point of breaking the fast;

Abu Hurairah (radhi Allahu anhu) reported that the beloved Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, "There are three people whose supplications are not rejected - the fasting person when he breaks his fast, the just ruler and the supplication of the oppressed."
[At Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah and Ibn Hibban] Classed as Hasan

One of the most superior Du'as for forgiveness is 'Sayyid al Istighfaar';



Allahumma anta rabbee la ilaha illa anta, 
Oh Allah, You are my Lord, none has the right to be worshiped except You,
khalaqtanee wa-ana ‘abduka, 
You created me and I am Your servant,
wa-ana ‘alaa ‘ahdika wawa’dika mas-tata’tu, 
and I abide to Your covenant and promise [to honour it] as best I can,
a’oothu bika min sharri maa sana’tu, 
I seek refuge in You from the evil of which I committed [my sins]
aboo-u laka bini’matika ‘alaya, 
I acknowledge Your favour upon me
wa-aboo-u bizambee, fagh fir lee
and I acknowledge my sin, so forgive me,
fa-innahu la yaghfiruz-zunooba illa ant.
for verily none can forgive sins except You.

Shaddad bin Aus (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) said "The most superior way of asking for forgiveness from Allah is: 'Allahumma anta Rabbi la ilaha illa anta, Anta Khalaqtani wa ana abduka, wa ana 'ala ahdika wa wa'dika mastata'tu, A'udhu bika min Sharri ma sana'tu, abu'u Laka bini'matika 'alaiya, wa Abu Laka bidhanbi faghfirli innahu la yaghfiru adhdhunuba illa anta." The Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) added. "If somebody recites it during the day with firm faith in it, and dies on the same day before the evening, he will be from the people of Paradise; and if somebody recites it at night with firm faith in it, and dies before the morning, he will be from the people of Paradise."
Sahih al Bukhari Volume 8, Book 75, Number 318

Increase in the recitation of the beautiful Qur'an.


What better time for us to re-establish our connection to the blessed Qur'an than in the month when it was revealed?

Abu Umamah (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that, "I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) saying, "Read the Qur'an, for it will come as an intercessor for its reciters on the Day of Resurrection.""
Sahih Muslim in Riyad as-Saliheen Book 9, Hadith 991

Give in charity.


With millions of people living in poverty across the world or stricken by war or disease, it is more important than ever for the Muslims of the West to reassess and strengthen their solidarity with their brothers and sisters who are less fortunate. Ramadhan should be a time when charitable donations are increased and given with a happy heart which is in remembrance of Allah's glorious favours and hopeful of His all-encompassing mercy.

Ibn 'Abbas (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that Allah's Apostle (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) was the most generous of all the people, and he used to reach the peak in generosity in the month of Ramadan when Gabriel (alayhisalaam) met him. Gabriel used to meet him every night of Ramadan to teach him the Qur'an. Allah's Apostle (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) was the most generous person, even more generous than the strong uncontrollable wind (in readiness and haste to do charitable deeds).
Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 1, Book 1, Number 5

Consider your schedule and if possible, avoid strenuous activities.


Fasting within the routines of a normal day can be testing. You're challenged to complete your tasks without that snack or coffee break that you might otherwise be used to taking. It is always important to pace yourself throughout the day, and if strenuous activity can be avoided, then try to do so. In many Middle Eastern countries, work and school days are shortened during Ramadhan. But nowadays, many of us need to do our work while we are fasting, so try and make it physically easier on yourself so that you have enough energy to strive for that spiritual connection with Allah'Tala.

If the opportunity to have a midday nap presents itself, don’t hesitate to take it!
Napping before the Zuhr prayer was the practice of the blessed Companions of Rasool'Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) and there is no harm in it as long as you are sure that you will not miss the Prayer;

Sahl bin Sa'd (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that Allah's Apostle (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) went to Fatima's house but did not find 'Ali there. So he asked, "Where is your cousin?" She replied, "There was something between us and he got angry with me and went out. He did not sleep (mid-day nap) in the house." Allah's Apostle asked a person to look for him. That person came and said, "O Allah's Apostle! He (Ali) is sleeping in the mosque." Allah's Apostle went there and 'Ali was lying. His upper body cover had fallen down to one side of his body and he was covered with dust. Allah's Apostle started cleaning the dust from him saying: "Get up! O Aba Turab. Get up! O Aba Turab (literally means: O father of dust)."
Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 1, Book 8, Number 432

Further reading on the Fiqh of Ramadhan can be found here.


Hope you find this article useful and I wish for all of the viewers of this article a healthy and prosperous Ramadhan!

Tuesday 8 May 2012

Nourishment for the convalescing

Swiss Chard, cortesy of www.JohnHarveyPhoto.com)
Narrated in Sunan Ibn Majah, Umm Al Munthir daughter of Qays al-Ansariyyah, radiya Allahu anhaa said: "The Messenger of Allah, salalahu alaihi wa sallam, entered my tent with 'Ali, radiya Allahu anhu,  who was recuperating from an illness. We had an adjacent palm tree with cluster of dates hanging from it. The Messenger of Allah, salalahu alaihi wa sallam, stood up and ate from it, and 'Ali, radiya Allahu anhu, followed suit. The Messenger of Allah, salalahu alaihi wa sallam, addressed ' Ali, radiya Allahu anhu, by saying: ' Gently, gently, you are still convalescing.' 'Ali, radiya Allahu anhu stopped eating. Immediately, I went and prepared a dish of Swiss card beets cooked with barley for him. The Messenger of Allah, salalahu alaihi wa sallam, then addressed ' Ali, saying ' Eat this food. It is more suitable for your present condition.'
Swiss chard beets, known as Silq amongst the Arabic speaking, is a tall, leafy green vegetable member of the beet family.  Its taste is like a cross between spinach and beets.

      Swiss chard beets ( stalks and leaves) cooked with barley together provide the best nourishment for one who is recovering from an illness, as the Prophetic traditions indicate. This meal protects the digestive juices against putrefaction, while it supplies sustaining nutrients to a delicate stomach. Adding Swiss chard beets to one's diet opens obstruction of the liver and spleen.  Black chard when eaten with lentils reduces stomach burns and helps to prevent peptic ulcers. Caution should be used eating chard in excess, as it can cause constipation and bloating, can produce insulin deficiency ( i.e. diabetes), and biliousness in the blood.  However, vinegar and mustard with the meal balances such effects.

 Chard is an excellent source of vitamin K, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, magnesium, manganese, potassium, iron, Vitamin E and dietary fiber. It is a very good source of copper, calcium, vitamin B2, vitamin B6 and protein. In addition, swiss chard is a good source of phosphorus, vitamin B1, zinc, folate, biotin, niacin and pantothenic acidHealthy Muslim.com

Here are some other  benefits of using Swiss chard for a number of different conditions:

 Alopecia- due to its astringent properties, applying the water of the dark variety of Swiss chard beets to the hair is a treatment for hair loss.
  
Lice: applying the water also kills head lice

Skin discoloration: applying the water is used as a treatment for skin discoloration of the face and chest and reduces large skin markings (lichen)

Impetigo: applying a pomade of crushed Swiss chard leaves mixed with honey is used for treating eruption of the skin pustules


 Swiss chard beets, are both hot and dry carrying a coolness to the body which affects decomposition, dilates the vessels, and promotes bowel movements, thus preventing digestive tract cancer This is a great food which provides nourishment to the body while it aids in complete digestion and proper elimination of the body systems. 



Friday 2 March 2012

Salt – an important dietary additive.


Natural pink Himalayan Crystal Salt.

In Islamic Medicine, salt is considered the stabiliser, architect or the principal substance of the food, and one that plays a dominant role in affecting other substances. Food is considered to be regulated with salt and Imam Ibn Qayyim (rahimullah) reported that most foods do not balance unless they contain salt.

Salt is necessary to sustain the processes of life and it is an essential dietary constituent of all mammals.

Abdullah ibn Omar (may Allah be pleased with him) said, “Almighty God sent down four blessings from the skies; iron, fire, water and salt.”

Salt helps evacuation, decomposition of solid food, transfer of nutrients around the body, elimination of excess moisture in the body, strengthening of the overall constitution and it also helps in preventing putrefaction and toxicity. Salt can also help relieve gastrointestinal malabsorption which can develop into inflammation of the digestive tract (Crohn’s Disease).

Gargling with a solution of salt and warm water can help prevent tooth decay. The same solution helps strengthen the gums, cures mouth sores, reduces mouth infections and also controls skin rashes.

Even a mild deficiency in salt can cause fatigue, weakness and a decreased attention span.

The use of salt as a preservative is recorded in both the Tafseer of the Qur'an and in the Sunnah.


A salted fish for Musa (alayhisalaam).


Ubayy ibn Ka'b (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated to us that he had heard Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) as saying, "Moses had been delivering sermons to his people. And he made this remark: "No person upon the earth has better knowledge than I or nothing better than mine." Thereupon Allah revealed to him: I know one who is better than you (in knowledge) or there is a person on the earth having more knowledge than you. Thereupon he said: "My Lord, direct me to him." It was said to him: Keep a salted fish as a provision for journey. The place where that fish would be lost (there you will find that man)...."
Sahih Muslim Book 30, Hadith 5865

Salt was used to preserve meat in the time of Rasool'Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).


It was narrated by A'ishah (radhi Allahu anha), that "We used to salt some of the meat of sacrifice and present it to the Prophet at Medina. Once he said, "Do not eat (of that meat) for more than three days [indicating that salt-cured meat should not be consumed for more than 3 days straight]." That was not a final order, but (that year) he wanted us to feed of it to others, Allah knows better."
Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 7, Book 68, Number 477

Commercial Table Salt vs. Himalayan Crystal Salt.


So many people are not aware that common table salt is in fact a wholy manufactured product and is packed with various forms of chemicals.

Commonly sold table salt consists of 97.5% sodium chloride and 2.5% chemical compounds such as iodine as well as absorbents, and sugar. Table salt is in addition dried at more than 1,200° Fahrenheit, a procedure that destroys the majority of the organic chemical structures of natural sea salt. Salt, while essential for life as we know it, could be harmful when used in this particular chemical form.

The actual table as well as cooking salt found in the majority of households, restaurants, and all sorts of processed foods, is definitely empty from any nutritional value. It truly is lacking in the valuable minerals, which make salt healthy for all of us. After refinement, sea salt is simply sodium chloride, an artificial chemical type of salt, which our system basically recognizes as a dangerous harmful invader!

Whenever we consume this kind of salt, our system can't dispose of it in a natural, healthy way. This can result in swelling of the skin (water retention), bloating and, over time hypertension can develop.

In addition, refined salt crystals are also energetically dead, since their crystals have been entirely isolated from one another. To help our system process chemical table salt, it requires incredible amounts of energy in order to maintain our entire body at its optimum liquid balance. This produces an unnecessary burdening of the elimination systems within our body. H2o is additionally taken off several other body cells within the system so that they can counteract the abnormal sodium chloride.

Research has revealed that for every single gram of table salt that your system can't process, your entire body will use around 20 times the volume of cellular water in order to counteract the sodium chloride in chemically-treated salt. This leads to bloating, increased blood pressure which leads to an increased risk of stroke, dimply skin, rheumatism, arthritis, gout, as well as kidney and gall bladder stones. With the understanding that the average American eats about 5,000 mg of sodium chloride each day, it really is obvious that the problem is significant and requires resolution.

Himalayan Pink Salt is mined in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains in Pakistan. It contains an almost identical set of elements as those in the human body, in the same proportions as occur in our blood. The distinctive rose pink colour is a result of the naturally high mineral content in the salt (iron, potassium and magnesium). Magnesium is one trace mineral of which most human populations in the West are deficient.

Here in this video, Dr Mercola discusses the excellence of natural Himalayan Salt;

Saturday 21 January 2012

10 Common Medications your Child Should Never Take.

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You can view the original article by clicking here.

Parents want to do everything they can to help their sick child feel better, but they need to be very careful about giving them medications. Many medicines are made for adults only and never should be given to a young child or baby. Even some medications specifically made for children can be dangerous if given improperly or in the wrong dosages. Before giving any medicine to your kids, please review these 10 common medications your child should never take.

  1. Aspirin – The number one medication to avoid using for kids is aspirin since it’s been linked to Reye’s syndrome. Although most parents know this, they may not be aware of all the products that contain aspirin. Check the ingredients of all medications before giving them to children to make sure they don’t contain aspirin.
  2. Vicks – A common home remedy to relieve congestion in infants was to put Vicks on the baby’s feet or chest. This is no longer recommended for kids under 2 since several children ended up in the hospital with respiratory problems. Never put Vicks around a child’s nose or let them swallow it because it can harm their eyes and is poisonous.
  3. Antihistamines – Many cold medicines contain antihistamines like diphenhydramine or loratidine that have been found to be ineffective for treating cold symptoms in children. Why give your kids something that could cause more harm than good? You should only give children antihistamines if they are prescribed by your pediatrician for allergies.
  4. Sudafed – This common decongestant has also been found to be ineffective for relieving cold symptoms in children. Since Sudafed has no proven benefit for common viral illnesses, it’s generally not worth the potential side effects of irritability, restlessness and nervousness.
  5. Cough medicines – Coughing is how a body clears out the lungs, so cough suppressants are never a good idea for children. You’re much better off treating the underlying cause of the coughing than trying to stop it. You should always check with a doctor before giving your child a cough medicine.
  6. Pepto-Bismol – This common remedy for stomach discomfort and diarrhea should never be given to young children since it contains aspirin. Using Pepto-Bismol to relieve vomiting or diarrhea can definitely do more harm than good.
  7. Alka-Seltzer – Another product that contains aspirin is Alka-Seltzer, so your child should never take this medication. The information on the box clearly indicates that it’s not recommended for children under the age of 12.
  8. Sleeping pills – Most sleeping pills and PM medications contain diphenhydramine which, as previously noted, is not recommended for children. Although this antihistamine is commonly used to cause drowsiness, in children it can have the opposite effect and cause them to become restless, irritable and have difficulty sleeping.
  9. Antibiotics – Although antibiotics have been routinely prescribed for viral infections, the risk can outweigh the benefits. They will not cure or shorten the duration of the illness and overexposure to antibiotics has lead to the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
  10. Pseudoephedrine – This nasal decongestant is a common ingredient in children’s cough and cold medications and is not recommended for children under the age of 2. Pseudoephedrine has never been shown to have any beneficial effect yet it can have significant harmful effects.

Parents should read labels of all OTC (over the counter) medications for the recommended children’s dosages. They will clearly state which drugs are intended for adults and not for children under the age of 12. Also check the ingredients listed to make sure they don’t contain aspirin or any of the other medications that can be dangerous to children. Kids will get sick, but it’s important to remember that common illnesses are only temporary. It’s much better to be safe than sorry and give your child something that will only make them feel worse.

Tuesday 17 January 2012

Melons.


Melons are a popular summer fruit and are packed with antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin A and they contain minerals which help the body to use its natural fluids more effectively. They are excellent for maintaining hydration in hot weather.

Melons, in particular, watermelon is cold and moist and has a cooling effect on the body. It is therefore extremely beneficial if it is eaten during hot weather. It is also particularly good at helping to alleviate symptoms for illnesses which relate to the digestive and urinary tracts as it is considered to be a potent cleanser. It is also associated with reducing the inflammation that contributes to conditions like asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and arthritis.

The consumption of Musk Melon with fresh dates can be traced directly to Sahih Hadith.


It is recorded that our Mother A'ishah (radhi Allahu anha) narrated, "The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) used to eat melon with fresh dates, and he used to say: "The heat of the one is broken by the coolness of the other, and the coolness of the one by the heat of the other.""Classed as Hasan by Al Albani - Sunan Abi Dawood Book 27, Hadith 3827

Musk melon can be grown organically in the UK in a heated greenhouse or outside in the garden in a tunnel - http://www.seedsofitaly.com/BIO_MELON_HALES_JUMBO/p1834925_8313668.aspx

Find out more about the benefits of Dates by clicking here.

Amongst the numerous benefits of rmelons, these below have been specifically recorded in the works of Ibn al Qayyim (rahimullah) with regards to the Prophetic Medicine;
  • It facilitates the hydration of the body and brain, helping to quench the thirst.
  • It eases constipation.
  • It helps to expel bladder and kidney stones.
  • It helps to cleanse the stomach of ailments just as vomiting does.
  • It purifies the vision.
  • It increases the level of spinal fluid.
  • It helps those suffering from inflamed haemorrhoids.
  • It helps reduce the symptoms of the common cold.

Watermelons (and other types of melons) are an excellent nutritious food for women whilst they are pregnant.

Studies have found that the consumption of watermelon can reduce the risk of certain cancers. Research carried out in Korea found that men with a high intake of watermelon, along with other fruit, had a lower risk of colorectal cancer. Another study found that those who consumed watermelon, along with other foods high in carotenoids, had a lower risk of prostate cancer.

Watermelon is most beneficial when it is eaten in season and at room temperature. Though if watermelon is to be served chilled, any possible harm resulting from the coldness of it on the stomach can be balanced by adding ginger to one’s meal.

It is best to eat watermelon before a meal or in the mornings for breakfast.

Sunday 15 January 2012

Healthy Sleeping etiquettes from the Sunnah.


Sleep is just as important to maintaining a healthy body and mind as diet and exercise, and just as some diets can be unhealthy, some types of sleep can also be.

The Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) did not oversleep or deprive his body of necessary sleep, making his method in this regard the most perfect. He used to sleep when sleep is warranted and would lay on his right side and remember Allah in supplication until sleep overwhelmed his eyes. In addition, his body would not be burdened with overeating or overdrinking. He neither slept on the bare floor, or on high beds. Rather, he had mats made of leaves, used to lean on a pillow and would sometimes place his hand under his cheek.

It is accepted by most physicians that a good night's sleep should last anywhere between 4 and 8 hours for those that have reached the age of maturity (baligh). Anything longer than this may be considered excessive.

Al-Fudayl ibn ‘Iyaad (may Allaah have mercy on him) said, “There are two qualities that harden the heart: sleeping too much and eating too much.” Ibn al-Qayyim (rahimullah) also said, “As for the five things that corrupt the heart, they are those that are referred to: mixing excessively with people (so as to gossip and talk a lot), wishful thinking (daydreaming), being attached to anything other than Allah, eating one’s fill, and sleeping a lot.” These five are the greatest corrupters of the heart.

Sleeping too much deadens the heart, makes the body heavy and overweight, makes one lazy in worship and slow in thinking, wastes time, and generates a great deal of carelessness and laziness. Some of it is very Makrooh and some is physically harmful; oversleeping brings no benefit to the body.

At the same time, sleeping too little is also unhealthy as Shaykh Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-Safaareeni (may Allah have mercy on him) said, “It is not right to resist sleep a great deal and stay up late often. Resisting and avoiding sleep will lead to other problems such as bad moods, muddled thinking, and exhaustion that prevents one from understanding and working properly, and it can lead to many fatal illnesses.”

Creation is based on balance and whoever adheres to moderation has achieved all goodness in sha’Allah.

Here in this post I have used the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah to collect evidence which highlights the impact of correct and incorrect sleeping etiquettes on mental and physical health.

Better quality sleep.


There are some important points in daily life and prior to sleeping that need to be focused on;

Heavy meals in the evening should be totally avoided, as should drinking caffinated drinks before bed (like tea, coffee, cola etc). The last meal of the day should be a light one and it should be taken at least two hours before sleep.

We should all have a regular sleeping habit. One of the conditions for enjoying quality sleep is to sleep and wake up at the same hours. It is particularly important to have regular sleep on week days. The disruption of this regularity at the weekend is one of the stumbling blocks standing in the way of a quality sleep.

One should lie on the right side. Lying flat on one’s back or lying prone can bring certain problems. Snoring or interruption of respiration only occurs while lying flat on one’s back.

The most suitable position for sleeping is to turning to the right side. A person unconsciously moves and changes position 10 or 15 times during his or her sleep as a result of Allah's Divine Mercy.

Here, one remembers the verses of the Holy Qur’an about the sleeping positions of the “people of the cave” as Allah the Beneficent says,

"We caused them to turn over to the right and the left..." 
(Surah al Kahf 18:18).

Moreover lying on one’s right is also the tradition of Allah's Beloved Messenger (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

Conducting Wudhu (ablution) before sleeping.



Doing Wudhu (ablution) before going to sleep is one of the things which is highly recommended.

A hadith was narrated to this effect, in which the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “When you go to bed, do Wudhu’ as for prayer.” (Narrated in al-Bukhari, 247; and in Muslim 2710).

Ibn Hajar said, “The apparent meaning is that it is recommended for everyone who wants to go to sleep to renew his Wudhu, even if he already has Wudhu. It may be interpreted as applying only to the one who has broken his Wudhu.”

The supplication which Rasool'Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) taught us to recite;

Al-Bara 'bin 'Azib (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said to me, "Whenever you go to bed perform ablution like that for the prayer, lie or your right side and say, "Allahumma aslamtu wajhi ilaika, wa fauwadtu amri ilaika, wa alja'tu Zahri ilaika raghbatan wa rahbatan ilaika. La Malja' wa la manja minka illa ilaika. Allahumma amantu bikitabika-l-ladhi anzalta wa bina-biyika-l ladhi arsalta" (O Allah! I surrender to You and entrust all my affairs to You and depend upon You for Your Blessings both with hope and fear of You. There is no fleeing from You, and there is no place of protection and safety except with You O Allah! I believe in Your Book (the Qur'an) which You have revealed and in Your Prophet (Muhammad) whom You have sent). Then if you die on that very night, you will die with faith (i.e. or the religion of Islam). Let the aforesaid words be your last utterance (before sleep)." I repeated it before the Prophet and when I reached "Allahumma amantu bikitabika-l-ladhi anzalta (O Allah I believe in Your Book which You have revealed)." I said, "Wa-rasulika (and your Apostle)." The Prophet said, "No, (but say): 'Wanabiyika-l-ladhi arsalta (Your Prophet whom You have sent), instead."
Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 1, Book 4, Number 247

Al-Nawawi said, “If a person has Wudhu, that is sufficient for him, because the point is to go to sleep having Wudhu, lest he die in his sleep, and so that his dreams will be more true, and so that the shaytaan will be less likely to play with his dreams and terrify him.”

Best times of the day or night to sleep.


According to Ibn Qayyim (rahimullah), the closer sleep is to either the very beginning or the end of the day, the less beneficial it is and the more harmful, especially sleeping between As'r and Maghrib, and sleeping at the very beginning of the day (before the sunrise), except in the case of one who has stayed up late and is overwhelmed with sleep.

The best and most beneficial times of the night to sleep is during the first half of the night (immediately after Ishaa) and this is the best sleep according to experienced Hakeems. In their view, anything more or less than that will have a proportionately detrimental effect on the body.

A kind of sleep that is of no benefit is sleeping straight after sunset, until the twilight has disappeared (Maghrib). The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) disliked sleeping at this time, therefore it is considered makrooh according to Shari’ah and is naturally disliked.

Some of the Salaf (Companions of the Holy Prophet) disliked sleeping after the Faj’r prayer.

The practice of the Blessed Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and his Companions after praying Faj’r (the time between early dawn and sunrise) was to remain sitting in the place where they had prayed until the sun rose, as is reported in Sahih Muslim (1/463) in the hadith of Sammaak ibn Harb, who said, “I asked Jaabir ibn Samurah, ‘Did you used to sit with the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)?’ He said, ‘Yes, frequently. He would not get up from the place where he had prayed until the sun rose. When the sun rose, he (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) would get up. They used to talk about things that had happened during the Jaahiliyyah, and they would laugh and smile.’”

As far as a person’s sleeping after praying Faj’r is concerned, no text (from either the Qur’an or hadith) has been reported to indicate that this is prohibited, so the general principle applies (i.e., everything is permitted except that which has been expressly forbidden).

It is important to note however, that the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) asked his Lord to bless his Ummah in the mornings, as is reported in the hadith of Sakhr al-Ghaamidi, who said, “The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “O Allah, bless my Ummah in the mornings.’ Whenever he sent out troops or an army, he would send them at the beginning of the day.’” Sakhr was a trader, and he used to send out his caravans at the beginning of the day, and he did very well as a result and made money.” (Reported by Abu Dawood, al-Tirmidhi and Ibn Maajah, with an isnaad in which there is some jahaalah (i.e., one narrator is unknown); corroborating evidence is to be found in a hadith narrated by ‘Ali, Ibn ‘Umar, Ibn ‘Abbaas, Ibn Mas’ood and others, may Allaah be pleased with them all.)

For this reason some of the Salaf disliked the idea of sleeping after Fajr. Ibn Abi Shaybah reported in his Musannaf (5/222, no. 25442) with a saheeh isnaad from ‘Urwah ibn al-Zubayr that he said: “Al-Zubayr used to forbid his children to sleep in the morning.” ‘Urwah said: “I do not hear of any man who sleeps in the morning, but I lose interest in that person.”

In summary then, people should make the most of this time which can bring many benefits and blessings in this world and in the Hereafter, but if a person sleeps at this time to gain strength to do his work, there is nothing wrong with this, especially if it is not easy for him to sleep at any other time of the day.

Ibn Abi Shaybah reported in his Musannaf (5/223, no. 25454) from the hadith of Abu Yazeed al-Madeeni who said, “Umar came to Suhayb one morning and found him sleeping, so he sat down until he woke up. Suhayb said, ‘The Ameer al-Mu’mineen is sitting in his place and Suhayb is sleeping!’ ‘Umar said to him, ‘I did not like to disturb your sleep that could be beneficial for you.’”

What to recite before sleep.


The best things to recite before sleeping are Ayat ul Kursi and the following three Surah’s of the Holy Qur’an three times each;

Surah Al-Ikhlaas (112)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Say: He is Allah, the One!
Allah, the eternally Besought of all!
He begetteth not nor was He begotten.
And there is none comparable unto Him.

Surah Al-Falaq (113)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Say: I seek refuge in the Lord of the Daybreak.
From the evil of that which He created;
From the evil of the darkness when it is intense.
And from the evil of malignant witchcraft.
And from the evil of the envier when he envies.

Surah An-Naas (114)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Say: I seek refuge in the Lord of mankind.
The King of mankind.
The God of mankind.
From the evil of the sneaking whisperer.
Who whispers in the hearts of mankind.
Of the jinn and of mankind.

Then blow into cupped hands, thereafter wiping on the body three times, starting at the front of the body with the head as reported in Al Bukhari;


The other very effective prayer formula is Ayat ul Kursi;

Ayat ul Kursi (from Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 255)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Allah! There is no God save Him, the Alive, the Eternal.
Neither slumber nor sleep overtake Him.
Unto Him belong whatsoever is in the Heavens and whatsoever is in the Earth.
Who is he that can intercede with Him save by His leave?
He knows that which is in front of them and that which is behind them, while they encompass nothing of His knowledge save what He wills.
His Throne includes the heavens and the earth, and He is never weary of preserving them.
He is the Sublime, the Tremendous.

(2:255)

It was narrated by Abu Said Al-Khudri (radhi Allahu anhu) that the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, "If while you are praying, somebody intends to pass in front of you, prevent him; and should he insist, prevent him again; and if he insists again, fight with him (i.e. prevent him violently e.g. pushing him violently), because such a person is (like) a devil." Narrated Muhammad bin Sirin: Abu Huraira said, "Allah's Apostle put me in charge of the Zakat of Ramadan (i.e. Zakat-ul-Fitr). Someone came to me and started scooping some of the foodstuff of (Zakat) with both hands. I caught him and told him that I would take him to Allah's Apostle." Then Abu Huraira told the whole narration and added "He (i.e. the thief) said, 'Whenever you go to your bed, recite the Verse of "Al-kursi" (2.255) for then a guardian from Allah will be guarding you, and Satan will not approach you till dawn.' " On that the Prophet said, "He told you the truth, though he is a liar, and he (the thief) himself was the Satan."
Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 4, Book 54, Number 495

Keeping the Awrah covered.


It is not recommended to sleep naked, even when sleeping in the same bed as one’s spouse or if the whole body is coved by a blanket.

According to the Islamic Scholars, the Awrah must be covered in all circumstances except when it is necessary to uncover it, such as when bathing, having marital relations, relieving oneself, etc. But when there is no reason, the awrah must remain covered, even for young babies and the elderly, because of the report narrated by Bahz ibn Hakeem from his father, from his grandfather, who said: “O Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), what should we do about our awrahs?” He said, “Guard your awrah except from your wives and those whom your right hand possesses (concubines).” He asked, “What about when a man is with another man?” He said, “If you can manage not to let anyone see it, then do that.” He asked, “What if one of us is alone?’ He said, “Allah is more deserving that you should feel shy before Him.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2769, and Ibn Majah, graded as Hasan by Darussalam).

Based on the above, it is not permissible for Muslims to sleep with no clothes on that would cover their awrahs, whether they are sleeping with or without their spouses. This is particularly true for ladies.

It is Sunnah to dust off the bed before sleeping.


It is highly recommended to dust down the bed before lying down on it. It can be dusted down with the edge of one’s garment, or with something else, like a small towel or piece of cloth.

Al-Bukhari (6320) and Muslim (2714) narrated that Abu Hurayrah (radhi Allahu anhu) said, “The Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “When one of you goes to his bed, let him dust off his bed with the inside of his lower garment, for he does not know what came onto it after he left it. Then let him say ‘Bismika Rabbee wada’tu janbi wa bika arfa’uhu wa in amsakta nafsi farhamhaa wa in arsaltahaa fahfazhaa bimaa tuhfaz bihi ‘ibaadika al-saaliheen’ (In Your name, my Lord, I lie down, and in Your name I rise. If You should take my soul then have mercy on it, and if You should return my soul then protect it as You protect Your righteous slaves).”

Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said in Sharh Muslim, “The ‘inside of his lower garment’ means its edge. What is meant is that it is recommended to dust down his bed before lying on it, lest there be a snake, spider or scorpion or other harmful thing on it. And he should dust it down with his hand covered by the edge of his lower garment, lest something bad happen to his hand if there is anything there.”

Never sleep on the stomach.


The Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) expressly forbade people from sleeping on their stomachs as it is the same way in which the dwellers of Hellfire will lie.

Ya’eesh ibn Tihfah al-Ghifaari reported that his father said, “I stayed as a guest with the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) with those of the poor of whom he hosted. The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) came out in the night to check up on his guests, and saw me lying on my stomach. He prodded me with his foot and said, ‘Do not lie in this manner, for it is a way of lying that Allah hates.’” According to another report, the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) prodded him with his foot and woke him up, and said, “Do not lie like this, for this is how the people of Hell lie.” (Reported by Ahmad, al-Fath al-Rabbaani, 14/244-245; by al-Tirmidhi, no. 2798, Shaakir edn.; and by Abu Dawood, al-Sunan, Kitaab al-Adab, no. 5040, al-Da’aas edn. Also reported in Sahih al-Jaami’, 2270-2271).

It is also advised never to put babies and toddlers to sleep on their stomachs. Regardless of what conventional western medicine mentions on the topic, this method of sleeping increases the risk of cot death and childhood allergies.

The Beloved Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) left no good thing but he told us about it and left no evil thing but he warned us against it.

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