The Drinks of the Holy Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam).

Asalaamu alaykum warahmatullahi wabarakatu and Ramadhan Mubarak to all :)

In this post I wanted to share with you some of the drinks which were consumed by the Holy Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) in his lifetime.

I would recommend everyone to introduce much more of these simple but delicious drinks to their daily diet and the diets of their families seeking the Shifa of Allah and to trade out the Pepsi, Coca Cola and fruit squashes which are loaded with sugars, preservatives, chemicals and artificial sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners have been linked to a wide host of serious illnesses like cancer, premature death and they also have a detrimental effect on the development of the unborn foetus - click here.

There are four primary drinks mentioned by Anas (radhi Allahu anhu) and substantiated in the Saheeh Hadeeth;

"I served drink to Allah's Messenger (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) in this cup of mine: honey, nabeez, water and milk."

Sahih Muslim Book 23, Hadith 4982.

Make a small change by giving these drinks to your family at Sehri and Iftaar, and then be encouraged to continue after Ramadhan insha'Allah.

Water and Zamzam Water.

Drinking water helps maintain the balance of body fluids. Your body is composed of about 60% water. The functions of these bodily fluids include digestion, absorption, circulation, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients, and maintenance of body temperature. All of these are kept in harmony by drinking adequate amounts of pure water. Health experts recommend to drink anywhere between 1litre and 2 litres daily, depending on your level of physical activity and the weather.

There are many narrations regarding the drinking of water so I will not list them here but there are some important Sunnahs to follow regarding the etiquettes of drinking.

Drinking from the mouth of the water skin [bottle] is forbidden.

By drinking directly from the bottle, germs and contagious viruses contaminate the water and are passed onto the next drinker. We must be careful not to cause harm to another Muslim. Tipping up a bottle to the mouth may be considered as lacking humility, so by taking water in a cup and sitting down to drink with three breaths, it is more healthy, humble and modest.

Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that "I heard Allah's Messenger (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) forbidding the drinking of water by bending the mouths of water skins, i.e., drinking from the mouths directly.

Sahih Al Bukhari Vol. 7, Book 69, Hadith 530

Not breathing into the drinking vessel and not drinking from a chipped vessel.

Abu Qatada (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that the Allah's Messenger (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) said, "Whenever anyone of you drinks water, he should not breathe in the drinking utensil, and whenever anyone of you goes to a lavatory, he should neither touch his penis nor clean his private parts with his right hand."

Sahih Al Bukhari  : Vol. 1, Book 4, Hadith 155

And in another narration in Abi Dawood;

Abu sa’id al-Khudri narrated that the Apostle of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) forbade drinking from the broken place (of a cup) and blowing into a drink."

Book 26, Hadith 3713. Classed as Sahih by Sh. Al Albani (rahimullah).

The etiquette of drinking Zamzam.

If you are blessed to visit Masjid Al Haraam, then you should drink as much zamzam water as you can as per the following hadeeth.

It was narrated that Muhammad bin ‘Abdur-Rahman bin Abu Bakr (radhi Allahu anhu) said:

“I was sitting with Ibn ‘Abbas (radhi Allahu anhu), and a man came to him and he [Ibn Abbas] said: ‘Where have you come from?’ He said: ‘From Zamzam.’ He said: ‘Did you drink from it as you should?’ He said: ‘How is that?’ He said: ‘When you drink from it, turn to face the Qiblah and mention the name of Allah, drink three draughts and drink your fill of it. When you have finished, then praise Allah.’ The Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) said: ‘The sign (that differentiates) between us and the hypocrites is that they do not drink their fill from Zamzam.”

Sunan Ibn Majah Book 25, Hadith 3177. Graded as Hasan by the scholars at Darussalaam.

Regarding Standing and Drinking Zamzam - http://audio-islam.com/2013/03/21/is-it-sunnah-to-drink-zamzam-water-while-standing-al-albaani-videoar-en/

Nabeez.

Nabeez is nothing but dates or raisins soaked overnight in water. It was often prepared in a waterskin and presented to the Holy Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) on the following morning.

A'isha (radhi Allahu anha) narrated that dates were steeped for the Apostle of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) in a waterskin which was tied up at the top and had a mouth. What was steeped in the morning he would drink in the evening and what was steeped in the evening he would drink in the morning.

Sunan Abi Dawood Book 26, Hadith 3702. Classed as Sahih by Sh. Al Albani (rahimullah).

Choose organic dates and raisins where possible and make their Nabeez separately from each other.

Most raisins are sprayed with sulfur compounds which act as a preservative. Make sure you rinse them thoroughly before making Nabeez with them.

Find out more about Nabeez here.

Raw Milk.

It is the opinion of some of the pious predecessors that Milk was Rasool'Allah's most preferred drink but indeed Allah knows best.

Allah's Messenger (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) said, "While I was sleeping, I saw myself drinking (i.e. milk), and I was so contented that I saw the milk flowing through my nails. Then I gave (the milk) to `Umar." They (i.e. the companions of the Prophet) asked, "What do you interpret it?" He said, "Knowledge."

Sahih Al Bukhari  : Vol. 5, Book 57, Hadith 30

Abdullah Ibn Abbas (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that he was in the house of Maymunah. The Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) accompanied by Khalid ibn al-Walid (radhi Allahu anhu) entered. Two roasted long-tailed lizards (dabb) placed on the sticks were brought to him. The Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) spat. Khalid said, "I think that you abominate it, Messenger of Allah." He said, "Yes." Then the Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) was brought milk, and he drank (it). The Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) then said, "When one of you eats food, he should say: O Allah, bless us in it, and give us food (or nourishment) better than it. When he is given milk to drink he should say: O Allah! bless us in it and give us more of it, for no food or drink satisfies like milk."

Abu Dawood said: "This is the Musaddad's version."

Sunan Abi Dawood Book 26, Hadith 3721. Classed as Hasan by Sh Al Albani (rahimullah).

The importance of organic milk sourced from cattle fed on a 100% vegetarian diet.

Abdullah Ibn Abbas (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) prohibited to drink the milk of the animal which feeds on filth.

Sunan Abi Dawood Book 27, Hadith 3777. Classed as Sahih by Sh. Al Albani (rahimullah).

Commercial dairy cattle which produce milk for the supermarkets are injected with hormones and vaccines. Their fodder is contaminated with chemical fertilizers and pesticides and these find their way into the meat and milk which we feed to our families. Always choose organic raw milk. If raw milk is not available in your country, organic milk is better than usual milk.

Drinking Milk mixed with water is also from the Sunnah.

The authentic narrations highlight that milk mixed with water was presented to the Holy Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) and his Companion and they both drank from it.

It was narrated that Jabir bin ‘Abdullah (radhi Allahu anhu) said: “The Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) entered upon a man among the Ansar when he was watering his garden. The Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) said to him: ‘If you have any water that has been kept overnight in a water skin, then give us some to drink, otherwise we will drink by putting our mouths in the basin.’ He said: ‘I have water that has been kept in a water skin. So he went and we went with him, to the shelter, where he milked a sheep for him and (mixed it with) the water that had been kept overnight in a water skin. He drank from it, then he did likewise for his Companion who was with him.”

Sunan Ibn Majah Book 30, Hadith 3558. Graded as Saheeh by the scholars at Darussalaam.

It is from the Sunnah to rinse the mouth after drinking Milk.

Find out more about the health benefits of Milk here.

Honey syrup.

Honey syrup is nothing but honey mixed in water. You can vary the ratio of honey to water depending on your taste but always remember to use high quality raw organic honey which still has all the natural enzymes and minerals produced by the bees.

Occasionally give honey syrup to your children who are over 12 months of age instead of fruit squash or juice. Honey's natural enzymes will strengthen their digestive system and build their immunity. Also, it will not damage their teeth.

Don't buy your honey from supermarkets as they sell in vast quantities and there is a high risk of additives in the honey to bulk it out. Find your local beekeeper and buy direct from him/her. Fresh beekeeper's honey can usually be found at farmer's markets.

Locally produced honey is far better suited to your body and is arguably better assimilated because it is produced by bees who process the same pollen that you are exposed to. Over time, locally produced honey can actually cure hayfever by building up the body's exposure to the pollen which cause allergies.

Honey syrup is best made with cold water and drunk in the mornings, particularly on hot days. Let the water from the fridge stand for a short while so that it is not too cold. Vigorously mix the honey into the water with a whisk so that it dissolves.

A'isha (radhi Allahu anha) narrated that Allah's Messenger (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) was fond of honey and sweet edible things and (it was his habit) that after finishing the `Asr prayer he would visit his wives and stay with one of them at that time. Once he went to Hafsa (radhi Allahu anha), the daughter of `Umar and stayed with her more than usual. I got jealous and asked the reason for that. I was told that a lady of her folk had given her a skin filled with honey as a present, and that she made a syrup from it and gave it to the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) to drink (and that was the reason for the delay).

I said, "By Allah we will play a trick on him (to prevent him from doing so)." So I said to Sa`da bint Zam`a "The Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) will approach you, and when he comes near you, say: 'Have you taken Maghafir (a bad-smelling gum)?' He will say, 'No.' Then say to him: 'Then what is this bad smell which I smell from you?' He will say to you, 'Hafsa made me drink honey syrup.' Then say: Perhaps the bees of that honey had sucked the juice of the tree of Al-`Urfut.' I shall also say the same. O you, Safiyya, say the same." Later Sa`da said, "By Allah, as soon as he (the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam)) stood at the door, I was about to say to him what you had ordered me to say because I was afraid of you." So when the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) came near Sa`da, she said to him, "O Allah's Messenger (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam)! Have you taken Maghafir?" He said, "No." She said. "Then what is this bad smell which I detect on you?" He said, "Hafsa made me drink honey syrup." She said, "Perhaps its bees had sucked the juice of Al-`Urfut tree." When he came to me, I also said the same, and when he went to Safiyya, she also said the same. And when the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam)again went to Hafsa, she said, 'O Allah's Messenger (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam)! Shall I give you more of that drink?" He said, "I am not in need of it." Sa`da said, "By Allah, we deprived him (of it)." I said to her, "Keep quiet." '

Sahih al Bukhari - Vol. 7, Book 63, Hadith 193

More about Honey in Light of the Qur'aan and Sunnah - click here.

Thareed, A dish of Bread and Meat Soup.

Thareed

Tharid is described in the authentic narrations as a dish made of barley bread sopped in a meat soup/stew which was eaten by the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) and he praised the excellence of this type of meal.

As the bread softens in the meat soup, it becomes tastier and easier to digest and this was particularly beneficial in the time of the Holy Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam), when bread was unleavened and made with flour which was more coarsely ground than it is today.

Tharid provides a complete meal of carbohydrates, starches, fibre and proteins and is one of the most superb meals to enjoy. Cooking and eating this simple but nutritious dish enlivens the heart and reminds you of the Shifa and Blessings handed down to the Holy Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) and how gracious Allah Subhanahu Watahala has been in making us of the Ummah of His Final Messenger. Thareed is a hidden pearl of At Tibb an Nabawi which many people do not know about. Try to make it at home for Iftaar and maximise the benefit by sitting on the floor with your family and eating with three fingers as our beloved Messenger did, instead of ordering your next pizza or takeaway and eating in front of the TV.

References to Thareed in the Hadeeth.

Tharid being a superior dish -

It was narrated by Abu Musa Al-Ash'ari (radhi Allahu anhu) that the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, "Many men reached perfection but none among the women reached perfection except Mary, the daughter of ' Imran, and Asia, Pharoah's wife. And the superiority of A'ishah (radhi Allahu anha) to other women is like the superiority of tharid to other kinds of food."

Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 7, Book 65, Number 329

Tharid made with gourd [squash/pumpkin] was served to the Holy Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) -

It was narrated by Anas (radhi Allahu anhu) that, "I went along with the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) to the house of a young tailor of his. The tailor presented a dish of tharid to the Prophet and resumed his work. The Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) started picking the pieces of gourd and I too, started picking them and putting it before him. Since then I have always loved (to eat) gourd."

Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 7, Book 65, Number 331

In another narration in Al Bukhari it suggests that the meat used to make the Tharid was sliced dried meat but if you cannot find dried halaal meat where you live, using normal fresh meat is fine.

Reference to dried meat in Vol. 3, Book 34, Hadith 305.

Although gourd is preferred, you can add any vegetables of your choice - potatoes, turnips, carrots, peas, spinach etc.

Tharid with Talbinah [poured over it] was prepared for the sick/grieving -

Our Mother A'ishah (radhi Allahu anha) narrated that whenever one of her relatives died, the women assembled and then dispersed (returned to their houses) except her relatives and close friends. She would order that a pot of Talbina be cooked. Then Tharid (a dish prepared from meat and bread) would be prepared and the Talbina would be poured on it. A'ishah would say (to the women),"Eat of it, for I heard Allah's Apostle (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) saying, 'The Talbina soothes the heart of the patient and relieves him from some of his sadness.' "

Sahih Al Bukhari Vol. 7, Book 65, Hadith 328

Most of the time, unleavened bread made with coarse barley flour was consumed in the time of the Holy Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam). Wheat bread was hardly ever consumed.

A'isha (radhi Allahu anha) narrated that "Never had the family of Muhammad (sallAllahu alayhi wassallam) eaten to their fill since their arrival in Medinah with the bread of wheat for three successive nights until his (the Holy Prophet's) death."

Sahih Muslim Book 42, Hadith 7083

It is my understanding that our mother meant wheat bread was an expensive luxury which was not eaten by the poor.

Either Barley or Wheat flour dough can be used to make the flatbread (roti) in Thareed depending on what you prefer and any type of halaal meat can be used for the meat soup but I would recommend boneless lamb as in the simple recipe below.

Thareed Stew Recipe.

600g lean boneless lamb cut into small pieces

1/2 bottle gourd cut into chunks

2 tablespoons of pure extra virgin olive oil

1 large sized onion, peeled and chopped finely

3/4 cloves of garlic, chopped finely

1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger root, chopped finely

1 teaspoon of tomato puree

1 large fresh ripe tomato, chopped

Salt and black pepper to your taste. You can use a natural salt like sea salt or Himalayan pink salt.

1/4 teaspoon Turmeric

1/4 teaspoon Chilli powder

1/4 teaspoon Garam Masala powder

1/4 teaspoon Coriander seed powder

1/4 teaspoon Cumin seed powder

1 teaspoon of fresh yoghurt, homemade is best (optional)

1 and 1/2 pints of boiling water.

Handful of fresh coriander leaves and mint leaves, chopped for garnishing.

Gently bring the olive oil up to temperature, ensuring that it does not start smoking. Add the onions, garlic and ginger. Fry them until they turn lightly golden.

Then add the spices and cook the mixture for a minute to remove the raw powdery taste of the spices.

Then add the tomato puree and chopped tomato, along with salt and pepper to your taste and a little bit of water. Cook the mixture until the tomatoes have broken down to a paste and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

Then add the meat. Turn up the heat and cook and stir the mixture to render out the moisture from the meat and brown the pieces.

Then add the boiling water and bring to a boil. Once the mixture is boiling, turn down the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid and cook the meat for 1 and 1/2 hours or until it is tender. Or you can use a pressure cooker.

Be sure to adjust the amount of liquid in the stew by adding more boiling water if you need it.

Once the meat is tender, add the yoghurt if you are using it and the gourd pieces and cook for a further 15 mins until they are soft.

Check the seasoning and once the stew is cooked, you can turn off the heat and garnish with chopped coriander and mint.

Make a chapati/roti flat bread on a tava pan, or you can use a pitta bread. Break it up into pieces and place it in a serving bowl.

Pour the Thareed stew on top and serve it hot. 

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 13^th, 14^th and 15^th 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!

Please don't break your fast with an Israeli date.

Boycott Israeli Dates

Every year, Israel exports millions of pounds worth of dates to the world, which many Muslims unknowingly buy and use to break their fasts.

These dates are grown in illegal settlements in the West Bank and the Jordan Valley, on land that has been stolen from Palestinians. By buying these dates, we are in fact helping Israel to continue its occupation and oppression of the Palestinian people.

Background

In 2004 the International Court of Justice ruled that the Israeli settlements are illegal – they are built on stolen Palestinian land. Growing dates is one of the major agricultural activities carried out by nearly half of the illegal Israeli settlements located in the Jordan Valley – it’s their most profitable crop , and contributes significantly to their economic viability.

Picking of the dates is hard work, so the Israeli settlers bring in Palestinian labourers to do this back breaking work. During the pruning season the workers are dropped on the date palm trees by a hoisting crane at 5 o’clock in the morning, left perched on palms that soar to a height of 10 or even 12 meters – the height of a three- or four-story building, left there swaying in the wind for up to 8 hours without a break and with no means to come down until the crane returns at the end of the day, the workers cling to the tree with one arm and work with the other to meet their quota. They can’t even take a break to go to the toilet. If they complain or fall behind their quota they will lose their jobs and their families will starve.

Out of desperate poverty Palestinian families are forced to take their children out of school and hand them over to the settlers to work for a pittance. (Source: Channel4 news 7 July 2008)

But the Israelis prefer to employ children – even issuing them official work permits, as they are quick and light, can climb trees faster, work for less and it’s easier to cheat and humiliate them.

Most of the Israeli date crop – up to 80%, is exported, mainly to Europe where it has around 10% market share. In 2005, dates were Israel’s leading fruit export.

The two major Israeli companies involved are Agrexco and Hadiklaim. Agrexco, half owned by the Israeli government, handles 60-70% of all goods produced in the illegal Settlements. Its dates have brand names Carmel, Jordan Plains and Jordan Valley. Before the start of Ramadan, Carmel boasted in their press release that they had managed an early crop of dates in order to meet the Ramadan demand for dates from Europe’s Muslims!

Hadiklaim sells 65 percent of the all dates produced in Israel.

It's dates have brand names King Solomon and Jordan River. They also supply Israeli dates to supermarkets and retail chains who market them under their own brand names. These include Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury's, Tesco, and Waitrose.

Sainsburys Medjool Dates produced in the illegal Israeli settlement of Netiv Hagdud in the West Bank

Sometimes they are labelled “Produced in the West Bank” – this just confirms they are grown in the illegal Israeli settlements.

Peace activists who visited the Palestinian village of Fasayl in the Jordan Valley discovered that villagers are slowly being forced off their land by the Israeli army. The only livelihood left open to them is to work for Carmel Agrexco. The activists even spoke to two Palestinian children under the age of 12 who were working for Carmel. The Palestinian workers whose land had been stolen and were forced to work for Carmel in order to feed their families – they had a message for the peace activists, a plea for anyone who would listen – they urged them to take action against Carmel Agrexco and such companies that support Israeli apartheid. What excuse is left for us not to boycott Israel? If you oppose the illegal settlements target their dates. Boycotting can make a real difference.

Please don’t forget to share this article with your family and friends.

The benefits of Fasting from a Health perspective.

The act of fasting, or the imposition of a complete abstinence from food, is the best possible safeguard from the illnesses of the mind, body, heart and soul. Indeed Allah Azzawajjal has put both benefits for Health and benefits for Imaan in Fasting.

This post looks in brief detail at the health benefits and it is understand that fasting from a dietary perspective produces wondrous results in preventative medicine. Western cultures are only just beginning to understand how the human body undertakes healing through fasting, although this is something Muslims were taught over 1400 years ago.

In terms of physical benefits, fasting helps to soften and dissolve obstructions which have accumulated in the intestines over a number of years, which the body cannot readily absorb, or which it cannot expel easily. The main benefits in fasting arise in it being a very effective treatment for acute gastrointestinal obstructions and constipation (fasting is actually better for constipation than the use of purgatives). Dietary fasting also helps to control an excessive desire for food (eating too much, thinking of it too often, dreaming of it at night etc.), and such control balances the body’s energies.

Fasting also helps control the body’s sexual desires when a Muslim fears such desires will overwhelm him or her, and make that person commit sin; Muslim men and women who cannot marry for a legitimate reason have been instructed to fast by the Messenger of Allah (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) as a way of helping them control their desires.

It was narrated by 'Alqama (radhi Allahu anhu) that "While I was walking with 'Abdullah (radhi Allahu anhu) he said, "We were in the company of the Prophet (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) and he said, 'He who can afford to marry should marry, because it will help him refrain from looking at other women, and save his private parts from looking at other women, and save his private parts from committing illegal sexual relation; and he who cannot afford to marry is advised to fast, as fasting will diminish his sexual power."

Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 3, Book 31, Number 129

It is best to fast in moderation (in interrupted sequences, i.e. continuous fasting day and night is forbidden) and when it is religiously required (compulsory fasting during the month of Ramadhan). This is because the human body has a very natural need for a period where we practice abstinence from food. During this time, the stomach and digestive tract have an opportunity to relax, repair and expel toxins. As a result, any illnesses or diseases a person may be suffering from, discontinue to affect the body while it is in a state of fasting.

As for the spiritual benefits, fasting also protects a Believer from immorality and evil (that of shayateen, men and jinn), balances his/her mind and guides his or her heart to avoid possible trespassing by the devils. It also helps the Believer to perform his or her other religious obligations (such as the prayers, reciting the Qur’an, giving Zakat etc.) more consistently, humbly and beautifully. It also warms the heart to worshipping Allah at night (Qiyaam ul Layl).

Allah Almighty says in the Noble Qur’an; 

“O Believers! Fasting is ordained for you, as it was ordained for those [people] before you as your expression of piety...” 
[2:183]. 

Allah Azzawajjal also says; 

“It is better for you [to fast]...” 
[2:184]

It was narrated by Abu Hurairah (radhi Allahu anhu) that Allah's Messenger (sallAllahu alayhi wasallam) said, "Fasting is a shield (or a screen or a shelter). So, the person observing fasting should avoid sexual relation with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should tell him twice, 'I am fasting." The Prophet added, "By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, the smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. (Allah says about the fasting person), 'He has left his food, drink and desires for My sake. The fast is for Me. So I will reward (the fasting person) for it and the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times."

Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 3, Book 31, Number 118

This is because since fasting is an act of true piety, it is considered by Allah a most beautiful devotion that brings a servant closer to his or her Lord in love and dependence, and this envelops him or her in Allah’s divine protection.

Allah the Almighty has created a very special gate of entry into Paradise, called Ar-Raiyaan, reserved only for His servants who fasted regularly in their lives. Fasting carries a unique and coveted reward with Allah Subhanahu’Watahala.

The Benefits of Dates.

Fresh ripe dates were the food Allah The Exalted provided for our Mother Maryam (on whom be peace) after she gave birth to 'Isaa (alayhisalaam) under the palm tree, as Allah says in the Qur'an;

"And shake toward you the trunk of the palm tree; it will drop upon you ripe, fresh dates."

[19:25]

Dates are considered one of the essential foods from the Sunnah and are prized in Middle Eastern culture for their sweetness and wholesomeness. They have the ability to metabolize quickly in the body, providing an essential energy boost for those who have been fasting all day.

It is recorded in the works of Imaam Al Bukhari (rahimullah) that Dates and Water where the only two foods available in the house of the Messenger of Allaah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) on most days;

Our Mother A'ishah (radhi Allahu anha) said to Urwa (radhi Allahu anhu), "O, the son of my sister! We used to see three crescents in two months, and no fire used to be made in the houses of Allah's Apostle (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) [i.e. nothing used to be cooked]." 'Urwa said, "What used to sustain you?" A'ishah said, "The two black things i.e. dates and water, except that Allah's Apostle had neighbors from the Ansaar who had some milch she-camels, and they used to give the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) some milk from their house, and he used to make us drink it."
Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 8, Book 76, Number 466

Foods which accompanied Dates in the meals of the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

There are a number of authentic Hadith which report that the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) sometimes ate dates with other foods. These foods are considered to be the best accompaniments for dates in terms of balancing their temperament and nutrients.

Fresh Ripe dates with [Snake] Cucumber.

Abdullah ibn Ja'far (radhi Allahu anhu) narrated that, "I saw the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) eating fresh dates with snake cucumbers."

Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 7, Book 65, Number 358

Snake Cucumber may be the same as or similar to Armenian Cucumber and the seeds can be purchased here - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CUCUMBER-ARMENIAN-YARD-LONG-70-SEEDS-/370631247434?pt=UK_HomeGarden_Garden_PlantsSeedsBulbs_JN&hash=item564b58064a

Dates with [Musk] Melon.

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

A drink of dates soaked overnight in water - Nabeez.

Nabeez is a drink made by soaking either dates or raisins overnight in water and it was provided for our Nabi (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) during his lifetime as reported in the authentic narrations. It's easy to make and nutritious and makes a great breakfast drink. More info can be found here - http://prophetic-medicine.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/nabeez.html

Dates with Sawwiq [wholegrain barley flour].

It was narrated by Abu Burda (radhi Allahu anhu) that, "When I came to Medinah, I met Abdullah bin Salam (radhi Allahu anhu) and he said, "Will you come to me so that I may serve you with Sawiq (i.e. powdered barley) and dates, and let you enter a (blessed) house that in which the Prophet (sallallahu alahyi wasallam) entered?"...

Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 5, Book 58, Number 159

Occasions from Qur'an and Hadith relating to when dates were eaten.

As we can see from the above where Allah Azzawajal mentioned how Maryam (as) was provided with dates after having given birth, dates are a highly beneficial energy booster for new mothers.

Occasions from Hadith;

Before proceeding out for the Eid ul Fit'r Prayer [as a breakfast] - 

It was narrated by Anas bin Malik (radhi Allahu anhu) that, "Allah's Apostle (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) never proceeded (for the prayer) on the Day of 'Id-ul-Fitr unless he had eaten some dates. Anas also narrated: The Prophet used to eat odd number of dates.

Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 2, Book 15, Number 73

and also reported as Sahih in Jami` at-Tirmidhi Vol. 1, Book 5, Hadith 543

Dates should be shared with companions in a gathering, particularly if they are hungry - 

It was narrated by Jabala that "We were in Medinah with some of the Iraqi people, and we were struck with famine and Ibn Az-Zubair used to give us dates. Ibn 'Umar used to pass by and say, "The Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) forbade us to eat two dates at a time, unless one takes the permission of one's companions." 

Sahih Al Bukhari Volume 3, Book 43, Number 635

For example, it would be a great blessing therefore to offer dates in the Mosque during Ramadhan at Iftaar for those who have prayed.

Dates for breaking the Fast - 

It was narrated by Anas ibn Malik (radhi Allahu anhu) that the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) used to break his fast before praying with some fresh dates; but if there were no fresh dates, he had a few dry dates, and if there were no dry dates, he took some mouthfuls of water.
Classed as Hasan Sahih by Al Albani - Sunan Abi Dawood Book 13, Hadith 2349

The Sunnah is to consume an odd number [reported as 3 in Riyad As Saliheen, At Tirimithi] and in sha Allaah this is extremely beneficial for our health and should be practiced regularly because it helps not over-eating food at Iftaar time. The body processes the nutritional value of dates very quickly, preventing us from feeling the subsequent need to eat a lot.

http://www.sunnah.com/riyadussaliheen/9/249

Ibn Al Qayyim's commentary on dates.

Ibn Al Qayyim (rahimullah) said that eating fresh dates is particularly beneficial for people who have a cold temperament. They help to rectify a cold, stagnant stomach. But for those who have never eaten fresh dates before or are not used to it, it would cause more harm to start eating them frequently. Dates are beneficial in treating and preventing a number of different illnesses, including constipation, intestinal disorders, weight gain, heart problems, sexual weakness, diarrhoea and abdominal cancers.

In the Middle East, dates are consumed in a number of different ways; like mixing the paste of crushed dates with milk, nuts, yoghurt, or consuming it with bread and clarified butter.

The best dates are grown in the city of Madinah. They are generally sweeter and have a higher fibre content, which helps to provide an important energy boost at breakfast and normalise digestion. 

Dates are said to have the highest fibre content of all dried fruits and a daily serving of 20-35 grams of fibre in dates is recommended by the American Cancer Society. Dates are one of natures most highest sources of potassium; a mineral which is vital to the regular and healthy contractions of the heart muscle. Potassium is also required by the human body to balance the digestive system and nervous system.

It is also said that eating just one date each day guards against weakening eyesight for a lifetime.

The profound blessings of Ajwa' Dates.

Ajwa' dates are smaller and darker in colour and slightly less sweet than other varieties. Ma sha Allaah it is for this reason that I have personally found them more to my liking [easier to eat] than varieties which are larger and sweeter.

There is no doubt that the sand of Madinah where the Ajwa' date palm plantations stand even to this day is blessed and full of Shifa due to the sacred status of this city, and Saad bin Abi Waqaas narrated that God’s Messenger (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “Whoever eats seven Medinah dates [Ajwa'] for his breakfast will suffer from neither poison nor witchcraft for that day.” (Bukhari and Muslim).

King Saud University researchers find Awja Date's cancer prevention properties - http://www.healthymuslim.com/articles/ipgbfzokh-ajwa-dates-contain-cancer-preventing-property.cfm

Purchase Ajwa' dates in the UK - http://www.healthmeanswealth.co.uk/Date_Shop.php