Ibn Al Qayyim: Figs are excellent for cleansing.

Figs are a blessed fruit by which Allah Azzawajal takes an oath in the Revelation;

"By the Fig and the Olive."

[At Teen 95:1]

Ibn Al Qayyim (rahimullah) said, "Because figs were not known in the Hejaaz or Madinah, they are not mentioned in the Sunnah, but Allah the Exalted swore by them in His Book, because of their great benefits. The correct view is that what is sworn by here is the well known regular fig."

Sheikh Muhammad Mahmoud 'Abdullah says that oaths in the Qur'aan are of two types; either because of the virtue of the object, or because of its benefit. Swearing by figs and olives is because of their benefits to people. They serve as drink, food, healing and condiments. They are mentioned together because they bring complete benefits. Figs plus olives form complete nourishment which supplies man with all that he needs of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.

Ibn Al Qayyim (rahimullah) said that the best kind of fig is the one with a white skin; it clears sand from the kidneys and bladder [reducing the risk of the development of stones] and protects against poison. It is the most nourishing of all fruits. It is good for clearing the throat and chest, cleanses the liver and spleen, and purifies mucus from the stomach. Dried figs are nourishing and good for the nerves.

Figs are regarded as one of the richest fruits in vitamins; especially A, B1, B2, C and Carotene. They also contain high amounts of iron, calcium and copper. These minerals are particularly good for those affected by anaemia because they assist with the production of haemoglobin in the blood.

Reference - Healing with the Medicine of the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam). Darussalam.

Figs have a hot temperament and such fruits are better partners with yoghurt than acidic fruits like berries. Here is my recipe for fig lassi with honey and for this recipe I have used Black Bursa figs which have a purple skin because white figs are not available where I live. It is still a healthy and nutritious drink to serve to your family and guests.

Fresh figs are delicate and highly perishable. Try to pick the fruit on the same day as you are planning to serve it, also preserve it/freeze it on the same day of its purchase.

Fig [Anjeer] Lassi - serves 2-3

Freshly made fig lassi. SubhanAllah, look at it's beautiful colour.

2 cups of yoghurt, homemade yoghurt is best.

7 large ripe figs, washed and chopped roughly. You can peel them if you wish.

Crushed ice or chilled water from the fridge.

Pure honey to sweeten to your taste.

Put the figs, honey and a small amount of water in the blender and blend until it forms a smooth paste. Add the yogurt and remaining water/ice and blend until smooth.

Figs with honey in the blender. I have kept the skins on this time.

Encourage your children to get into the kitchen to help you make this drink, explaining to them how Allah has mentioned this delicious fruit in His Most Exalted Revelation, it is held in high esteem and is also available for the righteous in Jannah.

Serve it straight away to them garnished with chopped fruits, like more figs, apples or pears.

Enjoy!