tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46095030186188274672024-03-08T16:26:55.485-08:00Imam Al Mahdi (a.s)bloggerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01444015052740593442noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-27892284974283762872013-03-08T02:49:00.000-08:002013-03-08T02:53:42.054-08:00A few distinctive characteristics of Hazrat Wali-e-Asr (a.t.f.s)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Allah the Most High has blessed the Imam of the time Hazrat Wali-e-Asr (a.t.f.s.) with innumerable noble traits and distinctive characteristics. This shows the special position held by Imam (a.t.f.s.) near Allah, the Almighty. It is not even possible to list all of these attributes. We have listed below some of these special characteristics.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Light:</span></div>
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During his ascension (Meraj) the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) witnessed the light of the Holy Infallibles (a.s.). Among these, the light of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) was most bright and was the only one in an upright position.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Lineage:</span></div>
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The lineage of our Imam (a.s.) is the most noble and honorable. He is the grandson of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), he is of the family of the pure and holy Imams (a.s.). In addition to this, from his mother’s side his lineage extends to the Caesar (Qaiser) of Rome and further to Shamoon al-Safa, who was the successor of Hazrat Isa (a.s.). Consequently his lineage extends to Hazrat Ibrahim (a.s.) from both of his sons, Hazrat Ishaaq (a.s.) and Hazrat Ismaaeel (a.s.). Thus the supplication of Hazrat Ibrahim (a.s.) reaches fruition through Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.).</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Imam (a.t.f.s.) visiting the skies:</span></div>
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When Imam (a.t.f.s.) was born, two angels took him up to the Throne and there, Allah The Most High spoke to Imam (a.t.f.s.) thus, ‘Welcome my servant, welcome! You are created for helping My religion and for the manifestation of My Glory. O Mahdi of the servants! I swear that I will accept through you, I will reject through you, and because of you will I forgive.’</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Baitul Hamd:</span></div>
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Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) has a house called ‘Baitul Hamd’. Inside this house is a lamp, which is alight from the time of his birth and will remain so till his emergence from occultation.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. The name and agnomen of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.):</span></div>
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It is generally prohibited in traditions for a person to have both the name as well as the agnomen of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). But Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is an exception as his name and his agnomen is the same as that of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a).</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. Termination of Imamat:</span></div>
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Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is the last link in the chain of Imamat. In his holy personality is the culmination of Imamat and successorship.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. Occultation:</span></div>
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From the time of his birth itself, Imam-e-Zaman (a.s.) was concealed from the common people. He was in the care of Hazrat Roohul Qodos (an angel who enjoys a higher position than even Hazrat Jibraeel (a.s.) and Hazrat Mikaaeel (a.s.) as is found in the exegesis of Surah Qadr). In the world of light (Aalam-e-Noor) and an environment of holiness (Fizaa-e-Quds), Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) was always away from the filth of the innumerable sins of men and the Devil (Shaitan).</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. Staying away from unbelievers, sinners and hypocrites:</span></div>
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Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) was never in the company of unbelievers, sinners and hypocrites. In fact none among them have even touched him.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">9. Being free from oppressive governments:</span></div>
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Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) has never been and will never be under the allegiance of any oppressive government.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">10. Seal of Imamat:</span></div>
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As the seal of prophethood was present on the back of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), similarly there is a seal of Imamat and Wilayat on the back of Imam-e-Zaman (a.t.f.s.) as well.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">11. Heavenly Books:</span></div>
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All the heavenly books and revelations of ascension (Meraj) mention the titles of Imam (a.t.f.s.). In fact he (a.t.f.s.) has been referred to, in them with numerous titles.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">12. Signs in the heavens and the earth:</span></div>
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Unique signs were manifest at the time of Imam’s (a.t.f.s.) birth and such will also be seen at the time of Imam’s (a.t.f.s.) reappearance. Imam Sadiq (a.s.) says about the verse,</div>
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<b>‘Soon will we manifest our signs in the worlds and in themselves, so that it is clear for them that this is the truth.’</b></div>
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(Surah Fusselat, Verse 53)</div>
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This verse is regarding the reappearance of Qaem (a.t.f.s.). Up to 400 signs of his reappearance have been narrated. (It must be borne in mind that the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) does not depend on the manifestation of the signs but only and only upon Allah’s will. Then, it is possible that Allah may order for the reappearance, while the signs have not been manifested. For more information regarding this matter please refer to Al-Muntazar 1990 Issue – Awaiting for Imam (a.s.) or for Symptoms and Signs</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">13. Voice from the sky:</span></div>
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Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) says:</div>
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‘(At the time of reappearance) a caller will call from the sky, which will be heard by all the people of the world. If someone is asleep, then by hearing this call he will wake up, the one who is standing will sit down and he who is sitting will stand up due to fear and this call will be given by Hazrat Jibraeel (a.s.).’</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">14. Movement of the skies (planets):</span></div>
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During the rule of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.), the movement of the heavenly bodies will slow down. It is narrated from Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) that Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) will rule for seven years, each of which will be equal to ten years (as calculated today). The narrator inquired ‘How will the day be prolonged?’ Imam (a.s.) replied: ‘Allah will decrease the speed of the rotation of skies.’ The narrator said ‘People say that if the skies were changed, the world will be destroyed.’ Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) replied, ‘This is the saying of the unbelievers (Zindiq). Muslims do not have any choice but to accept it because Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) has cleaved the moon into two parts, the sun was made to return for Yusha bin Nun and nothing has happened. And moreover one day of Qiyamat will be as long as one thousand years of this world.’</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">15. Book of Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.):</span></div>
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After the demise of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.) compiled a book (mus’haf) in which all the things revealed upon the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) as miracles were present without any change or distortion. When the people turned away from this mus’haf, Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.) kept it safely with himself. This Mus’haf of Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.) is with Imam Mahdi (a.s.) and only after his reappearance, people will have access to it.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">16. White cloud:</span></div>
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A white cloud will always hover over Imam Mahdi (a.s.). A caller will call from it and will be heard by everyone across the world, including all the men and the jinn. ‘This is the Mahdi from the progeny of Mohammad peace be on them who will fill the earth with equity and justice like it was filled with injustice and oppression.’ This call is different from the one referred to under point 13.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">17. Imam’s (a.s.) army:</span></div>
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His army will include the jinn and the angels. The companions of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will be able to see them.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">18. Imam (a.s.) will always appear youthful:</span></div>
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The passage of time affects each and every one of us. By its passing we grow from childhood to maturity and consequently to old age. The Holy Quran speaks of the old age of the prophets in the 72nd verse of Surah Hud and 4th verse of Surah Maryam. But when Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will reappear, notwithstanding his age of more than a thousand years, he will appear as a youth of forty years or even younger.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">19. The end of hate and hostility:</span></div>
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Hate and hostility among men is common and among animals, it is even more intense. After the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.s.), there will be no hate or hostility. According to a tradition narrated on the authority of Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.), there will be peace among all animals and for men there will be no fear of hostile animals.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">20. The dead will be resurrected:</span></div>
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Some people like Ashaabe Kahf, Yusha bin Nun (a.s.), Janabe Salman (r.a.) Janabe Abu Zarr (r.a.), Janabe Abu Dujana Ansari, Janabe Malik-e-Ashtar (r.a.) will be raised from their graves for helping Imam Zamana (a.s.). They will be appointed as governors by Imam (a.s.) in various cities. It is found in traditions that if a person recites Dua-e-Ahad for forty days and dies before the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.s.), he will be raised at the time of reappearance and will join the supporters and helpers of Imam (a.s.). One of the sentences of this supplication is as follows</div>
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“O Allah! If there occurs between me and him (Imam’s (a.t.f.s. reappearance) death, which you have decreed for your servants, then raise me from my grave, wrapped in my shroud, my sword unsheathed, my spear bared, answering the call of the caller in the cities as well as the deserts.’</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">21. Treasures of the earth:</span></div>
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The earth will reveal all its hidden treasures to Imam Mahdi (a.s.)22. Abundance of provisions: Rains, vegetation, fruits and crops will be so abundant that it will seem as if the earth has been changed anew and the following promise of Allah in the Holy Quran will actualize:</div>
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“On that day this earth will be changed to another earth ”</div>
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(Surah Ibrahim, Verse 48)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">23. Perfection of intellects:</span></div>
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After his reappearance, Hazrat Wali-e-Asr (a.s.) will place his hand on the heads of the people by which their intellects will become perfect and their hearts will be purified of malice and ill will. The hearts of the believers will become full of knowledge and wisdom. Then no believer will be in need of any help from other believers for gaining knowledge. This will be the manifestation of the following Quranic verse,</div>
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<b>“Allah by His Grace will makeeach of them independent of the others”</b></div>
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(Surah Nisa, Verse 130)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">24. Increased sight and hearing:</span></div>
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The sight and hearing of the companions of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will become so sharp that they will see Imam (a.s.) and listen to him from a distance of our farsakh (approx. 22 kilometers)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">25. Long life:</span></div>
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The companions of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will lead very long lives, so much so that each of them will be able to bear and rear a thousand children.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">26. End of all calamities:</span></div>
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Calamities, afflictions and weaknesses will not be there. The companions of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will not experience fatigue.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">27. Strength:</span></div>
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Each companion and helper of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will have the strength of forty men. Their hearts will be strong like iron and if they so desire, they will be able to uproot mountains.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">28. The sun will not be needed:</span></div>
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The light (noor) of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will make people independent of the light of the sun. This is the explanation of the following Quranic verse:</div>
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<b>‘The earth will be luminescent with the light of its Lord.’</b></div>
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(Surah Zumar, Verse 69)</div>
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The light in the verse refers to Imam’s (a.s.) light and he will be the master of earth.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">29. The banner of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.):</span></div>
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Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) will have the banner of the Holy Prophet of Islam (s.a.w.a.)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">30. The armour of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.):</span></div>
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Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) will have the armour of the Holy Prophet of Islam (s.a.w.a.) and it will fit him as it used to fit the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.).</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">31. Special cloud:</span></div>
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Allah the Almighty has created a special cloud for Imam Mahdi (a.s.) which contains ‘Barq and Raad’. Imam (a.s.) will ride it and it will carry him to the seven heavens and the seven earths.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">32. End of Taqaiyyah:</span></div>
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In the time of Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) there will be no fear for the believers of any kind from the unbelievers and hypocrites. The people of the whole world will worship Allah alone. Then the following promise will be fulfilled.</div>
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<b>‘Allah has promised those of you who believe and do good that He will certainly make them rulers in the earth as He made rulers before them. And that He will most certainly establish for them their religion which He has chosen for them, and that He will most certainly, after their fear give them security, in exchange; (as) they serve Me only and do not associate anything with Me.’</b></div>
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(Surah Noor, Verse 55)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">33. Universal Government:</span></div>
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The whole world will be under the dominion of Imam Mahdi (a.s.). Each and every creature from the skies to the earth will be obedient to Imam (a.s.) and will serve him unconditionally. The Holy Quran informs us about such a situation.</div>
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<b>‘And to Him submits whoever is in the heavens and the earth willingly or unwillingly’.</b></div>
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(Surah Aale Imran, Verse 38)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">34. Justice and equity:</span></div>
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The earth will be filled with justice and equity. Filling the earth with justice is widely acknowledged as it is talked about in most traditions regarding Imam Mahdi (a.s.)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">35. Legal decisions:</span></div>
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Imam (a.s.) will judge among the people on the basis of his divine knowledge as was practiced by Hazrat Dawood (a.s.) and Hazrat Sulaiman (a.s.).</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">36. Establishment of Islamic law:</span></div>
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Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will establish the Islamic law along with those rulings that have not been acted upon till date. For example Imam (a.s.) will kill that irreligious old man who is not paying due Zakat and similarly will also kill the twenty-year-old youth who does not know the Islamic rulings (Ahkam). People who have taken the oath of brotherhood in Alam-e-Zar, will be given each other’s bequests.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">37. Complete knowledge:</span></div>
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When Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will reappear, all sciences will make themselves manifest. Imam Sadiq (a.s.) says,“There are 27 letters of knowledge. The knowledge that is revealed till date through all the Prophets (a.s.) is the interpretation of only two of those letters. When our Qaem (a.s.) will rise, then Allah will reveal the remaining 25 letters and will add to these the two letters already present. In this way knowledge with all 27 letters will become complete.”</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">38. Heavenly swords:</span></div>
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Allah will send swords from the sky for the companions of Imam Mahdi (a.s.).</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">39. Obedience of animals:</span></div>
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All the animals will be obedient to Imam Mahdi (a.s.) and will submit to his authority.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">40. Rivers of water and milk:</span></div>
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Imam (a.s.) has the stone of Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) from which streams had gushed forth. Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) says,</div>
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<b>“When the Qaem (a.s.) reappears from Mecca, and sets forth for Kufa, a caller will call out, ‘Do not take anything for eating or drinking but only take that stone of Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) from which 12 springs had gushed forth. Wherever you camp, fix that stone (on the earth) and the springs will gush forth. When a thirsty man will drink from it, his thirst will be quenched and when a hungry man will drink from it his hunger will be satiated.’ This stone will be with Imam (a.s.) till he reaches Najaf. By this time, milk and water will start flowing from the stone near the outskirts of Kufa.”</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">41. The descent of Hazrat Isa (a.s.):</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is widely acknowledged that when Imam (a.s.) will reappear, Hazrat Isa (a.s.) will descend from the heavens and will pray Namaz behind Imam (a.s.).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">42. Killing of Dajjal:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Dajjal’s evil will be a punishment for the people. Imam (a.s.) will slay Dajjal and end the dissension spread by him.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">43. Takbeer:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To proclaim the takbeer seven times on any funeral is prohibited except for Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.). After Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.), the seven Takbeer are associated only with Imam Zamana (a.s.).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">44. Tasbeeh of Imam (a.s.):</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Specific dates of every month are associated with the Tasbeeh of Masoomeen (a.s.). The 1st of every month is associated with the Tasbeeh of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). Similarly 2nd is for that of Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.), 3rd is for that of Hazrat Fatemah (s.a.), ……. 10th and 11th is for that of Imam Reza (a.s.), 12th and 13th is for that of Imam Mohammad Taqi (a.s.), 14th and 15th is for that of Imam Ali Naqi (a.s.), 16th and 17th is for that of Imam Hasan Askari (a.s.) and 17th onwards till the end of the month is for the Tasbeeh of Hazrat Hujjat (a.s.).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">45. End of oppressive governments:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After the reappearance of Imam (a.s.) no oppressor will survive in the world. The government of Imam (a.s.) will last till the Day of Judgment. Imam Sadiq (a.s.) used to often recite this couplet:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>‘Every one is waiting for the time of his rule,</b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Our government will manifest in last days’</b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
(Al-Hamdo-li-Allah-Rabbil Aalameen)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All the above mentioned characteristics are taken from the book of Muntahal Aamaal by Theqatul Ilm Sheikh Abbas-e-Qummi (r.a.) (author of Mafaatihul Jinan). These characteristics are mentioned in detail in the second volume, from pages 763 to 771of the aforementioned book. May Allah reward the author and have mercy on him. Let us pray that Allah keeps us alive to see the time of reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) or if death overtakes us then may He raise us from our graves to serve Imam (a.s.).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Aameen.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.almuntazar.com/?p=213" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
</div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-28718799505121345982012-11-25T05:13:00.001-08:002012-11-25T05:17:35.284-08:00Hazrat Imam Husain (a.s.) and Hazrat Imam Mahdi (a.s.)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iAT-OHwWDOw/ULIZL5B6LrI/AAAAAAAABDw/Zyqw0PvhKJs/s1600/karbala.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iAT-OHwWDOw/ULIZL5B6LrI/AAAAAAAABDw/Zyqw0PvhKJs/s1600/karbala.gif" /></a></div>
The cries of help raised by Imam Husain (a.s.) on the day of Ashura
didn’t die away in Karbala itself. Indeed, it reverberated with greater
intensity with the passage of time. Those who weren’t present in this
physical world but were yet to come too had said labbaik on hearing his
(a.s.) plea.<br />
There’s a strong connection between the martyrdom of Imam Husain
(a.s.) and the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.s.). In the traditions
narrated by Imam Husain (a.s.) as well as in supplications, we find the
mention of Imam Mahdi (a.s.). Imam Mahdi (a.s.) too has often spoken
about the afflictions that befell Imam Husain (a.s.). In this article we
will try to make a brief analysis.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>(1) Imam Husain (a.s.) in the eyes of Imam Mahdi (A.S) </b></span><br />
<br />
Sa’ad bin Abdullah Qummi states that I inquired from Imam Mahdi (a.s.) the explanation of <span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>kaaf haa yaa ayn saad</b>.</span><br />
<br />
He said: “These are the concealed words with which Allah had
forewarned His servant J. Zakariyyaa (a.s.) and also reiterated it to
Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). J Zakariyyaa (a.s.) had requested Allah to
teach him the five (special) names and Allah had taught him those names
through J. Jibraeel (a.s.). When J Zakariyyaa (a.s.) would take the
names of Muhammad (s.a.w.a.), Ali (a.s.), Fatima (s.a) and Hasan (a.s.)
then the grief within him would subside. But, when he took the name of
Husain (a.s.) his sorrow would intensify. One day he implored Allah, ‘Oh
Allah, when I take four names I find rest and inner peace but when I
take the name of Husain, then sorrow overcomes me and tears start
flowing from my eyes. Allah revealed the significance of these words.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;">‘<b>kaaf</b>’</span> means Karbala,<span style="color: #cc0000;"> ‘<b>Haa</b>’</span> refers to the massacre and martyrdom of the chaste progeny,<span style="color: #cc0000;"> ‘<b>yaa</b>’</span> is for the oppressor Yazeed,<span style="color: #cc0000;"> ‘<b>ayn</b>’</span> stands for thirst and<span style="color: #cc0000;"> ‘<b>saad</b></span>’ is for the patience of Imam Husain (a.s.).<br />
On hearing this J Zakariyyaa (a.s.) became so anguished that he did
not leave his prayer niche for three days. He did not allow anyone to
come near him. Even as he wept incessantly, he kept saying,<br />
<br />
<i>‘O Allah, I am in grief because calamities will befall on the son
of Your best creation. O Allah! Grant me a son who will be a support in
my old age, who will be the light of my eyes, who will be my inheritor
and my vicegerent. And then you involve me in his misery, just like how
You have involved Your beloved messenger Muhammad Mustafa (s.a.w.a.) in
his son’s sorrow.’</i><br />
<br />
Allah granted J. Zakariyyaa (a.s.) a son named Yahya (a.s.) and then
involved him in his suffering. Janabe Yahya (a.s.) and Imam Husain
(a.s.) were born after six months of pregnancy’.”<br />
(Kamaluddin, Vol 2, page 420)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>(2) Imam Mahdi (A.S) in the eyes of Imam Husain (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>) </b></span><br />
<br />
Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) says:<br />
<br />
<i>Haaris al-A’war asked Imam Husain (a.s.) the meaning of “I swear
by the sun and its heat’ (Surah Shams, verse 1)” He (a.s.) replied “It
refers to the Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.).” Then he asked him about
the second verse “I swear by the moon while it follows it”. He said, “It
refers to Hazrat Ameerul Momineen (a.s.), who is after the Messenger of
Allah (s.a.w.a.). Then he asked him (a.s.) about the third verse “I
swear by the day when it manifests itself” He (a.s.) said: “It refers to
Hazrat Qaem of Aale Muhammad, who will fill the earth with justice and
equality” </i><br />
(Tafseer-e-Furaat Kufi, p. 212)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>(3) Imam Mahdi(a.s) the avenger of the blood of Imam Husain(</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>)</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br />
<br />
Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will avenge the brutal and tyrannical killing of
Imam Husain (a.s.) and his companions. While explaining this verse of
Quran,<br />
<br />
<b>“….. and whoever is killed unjustly, We have indeed given to
his heir authority, so he shall not be extravagant in slaying; surely he
is aided” </b>(Bani Israel 33)<br />
<br />
Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) says:<br />
<br />
<i>“The oppressed ones are Imam Husain (a.s.) and his successors.
When our Qaem will reappear he will account for their blood. He will
take revenge in such a way that people will say that he has gone to the
extreme.” </i><br />
<br />
(Tafseer-e-Burhaan, vol 2, p. 419; Behar, vol 10, p. 15)<br />
<br />
‘Going to the extreme,’ means to slay the innocent ones.
Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) is infallible, so there is no question of him
shedding the blood of innocent people. This is the opinion of those who
think that the killers of Imam Husain (a.s.) were present only in
Karbala. On the contrary, in the eyes of Islam, even they are culpable
who agree with the actions of the tyrants, justify it and then go
all-out to prove their innocence. In our times too, we find some
wretched people who praise Yazeed (l.a.) and those involved in the
killing of Imam Husain (a.s.). Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) will take revenge
from all of them.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>(4) Imam Mahdi (a.s.) – in the words of Imam Husain’s (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>) </b></span><br />
<br />
In Ziyarate Ashura, Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) is referred to as ‘Mansoor
(the helped one).’ Esa al-Khashaab inquired from Imam Husain (a.s.),
‘Are you the Master of Affairs?’<br />
He (a.s.) said:<br />
<br />
<i>“I am not the Master of Affairs. Rather he is the one who will be
hidden from the eyes of the people. His dwelling is far away from the
human inhabitants. He’ll be the one to avenge the slaying of his father.
His agnomen will be the agnomen of his uncle. The sword will rest on
his shoulder for 18 months.” </i><br />
<br />
(Kamaluddin, vol. 1, p. 318)<br />
<br />
The words “Tareed” and “shareed” are synonyms. They are used for the
one who has gone far away from the people because they deserted and
abandoned him. The people did not value the blessing of Imam’s (a.s.)
presence. On the contrary, they dishonored him. They made the killing of
his family lawful, used their tongues and pens to oppose him and did
all they could to take his remembrance out of the minds.<br />
‘He’ll avenge the killing of his father.’ This could also mean Imam
Hasan Askari (a.s.) because he was martyred through poison and it could
also mean Imam Husain (a.s.).<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Imam Mahdi (a.s.) and the remembrance of Imam Husain (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>) </b></span><br />
<br />
In Ziyarat-e-Naahiyah, Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) has remembered Imam Husain (a.s.) in these words:<br />
<i>‘You were to the Messenger (s.a.w.a.) a son, an authority on the
Noble Quran and its saviour. You were the pillar and supporter of the
nation. You were diligent in obeying your Lord, a protector of the
covenant and the oath, kept away from the paths of the sinners; were
excessive in your bowing and prostrations. You had turned your face from
the enticements of the world like the one who is departing from it,
looking upon it with fear. </i><br />
<i> </i>(Behaar-ul-Anwaar, vol. 101, p. 239)<br />
<br />
This is how Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) has articulated ten qualities and
specialties of his illustrious grandfather. The truth is that Imam
Husain (a.s.) and Imam Mahdi (a.s.) share a special bond. They both
share the same objective. Imam Husain (a.s.) desired to safeguard the
religion while Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.) will enforce the religion in the
entire world.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Imam Mahdi (a.s.) and the Day of Ashura </b></span><br />
<br />
Just as the title of Ameerul Momineen (a.s.) is exclusively for Imam
Ali (a.s.) similarly the title of Qaem is only for Imam Mahdi (a.s.).
Abu Hamza Thumali asked Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.): “Are you not the
Qaem? And why only Wali-e-Asr is called as the Qaem?” He (a.s.) replied:<br />
<br />
<i>“When my grandfather Imam Husain (a.s.) was martyred the angels
wailed loudly and they pleaded in front of Allah — ‘O Allah, will you
let go the ones who have massacred the best of Your creation – the one
chosen by You and the son of Your chosen one?” Allah revealed to the
angels:</i><br />
<br />
<b>“O My angels, be patient! I swear by My Honour and Might,
verily I will take revenge from these people even if it may be after a
few days. Thereafter Allah removed the veil from the eyes of the angels
and they saw the Imams from the progeny of Imam Husain (a.s.). Seeing
this the angels became happy and they saw that among those Imams there
was one who was in the state of qiyam (standing) and Allah said,
‘Through this Qaem I will take revenge.’ </b><br />
<br />
(Dalaail-ul-Imaamah, Muhammad Ibn Jurair al-Tabari (he is different from the famous Sunni historian), p. 239)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Imam Mahdi (a.s.) and his yearning to help Imam Husain (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>)</b></span><br />
<br />
To be alongside Hazrat Imam Husain (a.s.) and be fortunate enough to
attain martyrdom is the greatest achievement and honour. It is something
which we mention repeatedly in Ziyarat-e-Waaresah,<br />
<i>‘O how we wish we would have been with you and attain this ultimate success.’</i><br />
In Ziyarat-e-Naahiyah, Imam Zamana (a.s.) has expressed this great desire in the following words:<br />
<br />
<i>“O my oppressed father! I came in this world after you and by the
decree of Allah I couldn’t help you. Therefore, I will lament morning
and evening and instead of tears I will shed blood.” </i><br />
<br />
This gives us an idea that in the eyes of Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.), it is
an honour and privilege to help Imam Husain (a.s.). The mission of Imam
Husain (a.s.) will be completed by Imam Mahdi (a.s.) and the religion
for which the Chief of Martyrs (a.s.) sacrificed his life will be put
into practice in the entire world.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Day of Ashura and the Day of Reappearance </b></span><br />
<br />
There’s no particular day fixed for the reappearance of Imam Mahdi
(a.s.). Some traditions, however, do speak of certain days on which
there’s a possibility of Imam (a.s.) reappearing. It means one can hope
and expect the reappearance to happen on these days.<br />
Some reports mention Friday. Some speak of Ashura and some also talk about Saturday.<br />
These traditions can be reconciled broadly as – Ashura and Friday
could be one day on which reappearance may take place while Saturday
could be the day of announcement. So, in this way the day of martyrdom
and reappearance will be Friday. Saturday will be the day of balancing
the things. Thus the day of martyrdom will be the day when the religion
will be stabilized and operational in the whole world. The day of
martyrdom will be the day on which the powers of falsehood will be
annihilated.<br />
<br />
Imam Jafar as-Sadiq (a.s.) says:<br />
<br />
<i>On 23rd day of the holy month of Ramazan there will be a voice in
the sky calling out the name of Hazrat Qaem (a.s.) and the day of
Ashura will be the day when he will rise – the day on which Imam Husain
(a.s.) was martyred. </i><br />
<br />
(Al-Ghaibah of Shaikh al-Tusi (r.a.), p. 474)<br />
<br />
It appears the decision on the reappearance of Hazrat Wali-e-Asr
(a.s.) will be taken in Shab-e-Qadr. He will be informed about his
reappearance and the day of Ashura will be on which he will reappear and
commence his uprising.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Imam Mahdi’s (a.s.) first speech</b></span><br />
<br />
In his first speech after reappearance, Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will
introduce himself in such a way that the deep connect between his
reappearance and the martyrdom will be manifested. When Imam Mahdi
(a.s.) will reappear he will introduce himself in the following way by
standing between Hajar-e-Aswad and Maqam-e-Ibrahim:<br />
<i>‘O people of the world! Be warned, I am the Qaem’ </i><br />
<i>‘O people of the world! Know that I am the sword with which revenge will be taken.’</i><br />
<i>‘O people of the world! Know that my Husain was martyred thirsty.’ </i><br />
<i>‘O people of the world! Know that my Husain was left uncovered without a shroud on the dusty plains.’</i><br />
<i>‘O people of the world! My grandfather Husain’s body was trampled (by horses) after he was massacred </i><br />
(Intezaar, first year, second edition, p. 178)<br />
<br />
Imam Mahdi (a.s.) will first declare that he is the Qaem. Then he
will talk about taking revenge through his sword and then speak about
the tribulations that befell upon Imam Husain (a.s.). Hazrat (a.s.)
will start his oration with the majlis of Imam Husain (a.s.) This will
make it clear to one and all the importance of narrating the
tribulations and sufferings of Imam Husain (a.s.). It also becomes clear
that the objective of Imam Husain’s (a.s.) martyrdom will only be
realized following the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.s.). Besides, it is
evident that those who draw attention to the afflictions that were
faced by the Chief of Martyrs (a.s.), are actually following the path
and tradition of Imam-e-Zamana (a.s.). Thus those who put obstacles in
the way (of Azadari) can now judge their own fate.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Imam Mahdi (a.s.) and the avenging of the killing of Imam Husain (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>) </b></span><br />
<br />
Imam Husain (a.s.) told Imam Zainul Aabedeen (a.s.):<br />
<i>By Allah! My blood will keep boiling until Allah makes Mahdi
apparent. He will avenge my killing and he will slay seventy thousand
transgressors and disbelievers. </i><br />
(Al-Manaaqib by Ibn Shahr Aashoob, vol. 4, p. 85; Behaar ul Anwaar, vol. 45, page 299)<br />
The narrator asked Imam Reza (a.s.): What do you have to say about this tradition wherein Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s.) says:<br />
<br />
<i>‘When our Qaem will rise he will massacre the descendants of the killers of Imam Husain (a.s.) for the crime of their fathers!’</i><br />
<br />
Imam Reza (a.s.) said,<br />
<i>‘Yes it is true.’</i><br />
Then the narrator asked, ’What is the essence of this verse of Quran then:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>‘No bearer of burdens can bear the burden of another,’ </b></span><br />
<b> </b>(Surah Anaam 164)<br />
<br />
Imam Reza(a.s.) replied:<br />
<br />
<i>“What Allah has said is true but these people were happy and
proud over what their ancestors had done. If a person concurs with the
one who performs the action then he too becomes a party in it. If
someone is killed in the east and the people of west are in accord with
it then in the eyes of Allah they too are partners in crime along with
the killers. For that Qaem will execute the sons of the killers of Imam
Husain (a.s.) on the premises that they were in pleased and satisfied
with their predecessors.”</i><br />
<br />
(Elal al-Sharae’, vol. 1, page 219; Oyoon Akhbaar ar-Raza (a.s.), vol. 1, p. 273; Behar ul Anwaar, vol. 52, p. 313)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Imam Mahdi (a.s.) and the Completion of Imam Husain’s (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>) Journey</b></span><br />
<br />
Imam Husain (a.s.) had travelled from Makkah to Kufa because he
wanted to live in Kufa. But, the tyrants of the time didn’t allow him to
complete his journey. They did not let him enter Kufa and instead
martyred him in Karbala. Imam Mahdi (a.s.), after reappearing, will
designate Kufa as his capital. Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) says:<br />
<br />
<i>Mahdi will reappear and then travel to Kufa, which will be his home. </i><br />
(Behaar ul Anwaar, vol. 25, p. 225)<br />
<br />
In another tradition he says:<br />
<br />
<i>When our Qaem will reappear he will go to Kufa. At that time
every believer will live in Kufa or at least will definitely go there. </i><br />
<br />
(Behaar ul Anwaar, vol. 52, p. 385)<br />
<br />
These traditions clearly state that Kufa will be Imam Mahdi’s (a.s.)
seat of power; he will stay and rule over the entire world from there.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Helpers of Imam Husain (a.s.) and Imam Mahdi (a.s.)</b></span><br />
<br />
Along with believers, angels from the skies too will join Imam
Mahdi’s (a.s.) troops. Rayyan ibn Shabeeb narrates from Imam Raza
(a.s.):<br />
<i>“Four thousand angels had descended from the heavens to help and
support Imam Husain (a.s.). But when they reached Karbala, Imam Husain
(a.s.) was already martyred. Since then, those angels have covered
themselves in dust and are lamenting besides the sacred grave of Imam
Husain (a.s.). They will remain in this condition till the reappearance
of Qaem following which they will be among the helpers and their slogan
will be, ‘Revenge for the unjust killing of Imam Husain (a.s.)’ </i><br />
<br />
(al-Amaali of Shaikh Sadooq (a.r.), Speech No. 27, Behaar ul Anwaar, vol. 44, p. 285)<br />
<br />
The aspiration of helping Imam Husain (a.s.) can be met by helping
Imam Mahdi (a.s.). Therefore, every person while reciting
Ziyarat-e-Waaresah wishes that he too should have been present in the
battle of Karbala, can attain this great of blessing by helping Imam e
Zamana (a.s.) – even while Imam (a.s.) is in occultation. He can do that
by spreading the name of Imam e Zamana (a.s.), by increasing the love
of Imam e Zamana (a.s.) in the hearts of the people, by making them
remember him, by erasing the doubts concerning him and preparing them
for his reappearance and waiting for his reappearance devotedly. These
are the ways of helping Imam (a.s.) and in whatever way it is possible
one should step forward and realize the ambition of helping Imam Husain
(a.s.).<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Birthday of Imam Husain (a.s.) and Remembrance of Imam Mahdi (a.s.)</b></span><br />
<br />
The third of Shabaan is the birthday of Chief of Martyrs – Imam
Husain (a.s.). It is a day of joy for the Ahle Bait (a.s.), their Shias
and their friends. For Allah, this is a great day. On this very
distinguished day, Allah had gifted His Messenger (s.a.w.a.) a tradition
luminously etched on a green slate, which is called as Hadith-e-Lauh.
This tradition elucidates the messengership, mastership and leadership
of the Fourteen Infallibles (a.s.). There’s a special mention of Imam
Mahdi (a.s.). The past editions of Al Muntazar have discussed this
tradition extensively and that is why we will refrain from discussing it
further in this issue.<br />
There are exclusive supplications and actions prescribed for this
day. In these supplications there is a special mentioning of Imam Mahdi
(a.s.) along with Imam Husain (a.s.).<br />
<br />
<i>‘O Allah I beseech You for the sake of the son who was born on
this day. I raise my hands in Your presence, on whose birthday the news
of his martyrdom was given; on whose martyrdom, the earth, the sky and
everything that lived in it wept. And in return of the martyrdom,
Imamate was bestowed in his lineage. The dust of his burial place has
healing powers. In whose company lays success and good fortune and in
his lineage is the Qaem for whom occultation has been decreed.” </i><br />
<br />
(Misbah al-Mutahjjid, p. 758; Mafateehul Jinaan, Amaal of 3rd Shabaan)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The day of Imam Mahdi’s (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>) birth and the remembrance of Imam Husain (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>)</b></span><br />
<br />
The night of 15th Shabaan is the greatest and most blessed after
Shab-e-Qadr. On one night the silent Quran was revealed and on the other
the speaking Quran was born. One is the night of ‘Qadr’ which is better
than thousand months and the other night is a practical interpretation
of Shab-e-Qadr. It is better to spend this night, too, in worship. The
best action in this highly significant night is the Ziyarat of Imam
Husain (a.s.) and the one who wants to shake hands with 1,24,000
Prophets then he should recite the Ziyarat of Imam Husain (a.s.).<br />
As if, all the Prophets have come to congratulate Imam Husain (a.s.)
on the birth of his dearest grandson Imam Mahdi (a.s.) this night. To
praise him for the one who will fulfill the purpose for which he
sacrificed himself and spread his religion in the entire world.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Shab-e-Qadr and the remembrance of Imam Husain (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>)</b></span><br />
<br />
Shab-e-Qadr is the most significant of all nights. This night is
specifically related to Imam Mahdi (a.s.) because in this night the
angels appear in the pious presence of Imam (a.s.) with the affairs of
the entire year. The most commendable of actions for this night is
Ziyarat of Imam Husain (a.s.). The one who recites it will have the
honour of shaking hands with the souls of 124,000 Prophets (a.s.).<br />
The day of birth of Imam Mahdi (a.s.), too, is of similar
significance. The visitor will have the honour of shaking hands with
124,000 Prophets. Likewise, the one who does Ziyarat on Shab-e-Qadr will
have the same privilege. Perhaps, the reason for this is that Imam
Mahdi (a.s.) was born on the night of 15th Shaban and that he may
reappear in Shab-e-Qadr. One night is holy on the basis of his birth and
the other is from the perspective of reappearance. Both nights are
categorically connected with Imam Zamana (a.s.) and on both these nights
there is Ziyarat of Imam Husain (a.s.).<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The supplication of Nudbah and the remembrance of Imam Husain (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>)</b></span><br />
<br />
Dua-e-Nudbah is one of the many supplications exclusively related to
Imam Zamana (a.s.). Those who carry the desire of assisting Imam Mahdi
(a.s.) recite this dua every Friday. From the depths of their hearts,
they remember Imam (a.s.) and shed tears on being separated from him.
They keep their hearts fresh with the remembrance of Imam (a.s.). From
the point of legitimacy and on the basis of the actions of the Ulama,
this is an absolutely authentic supplication. Along with Imam Zamana
(a.s.) this dua also refers to Imam Husain (a.s.).<br />
Pay attention to the following words from this dua:<br />
<br />
<i>“Where is Hasan and where is Husain? Where are the sons of
Husain? The virtuous – one after the other?The truthful – one after the
other.’’</i><br />
<br />
Then Imam Husain (a.s.) is especially remembered in this manner:<br />
<br />
<i>“Where is the avenger of the blood of the innocent martyrs of Karbala?”</i><br />
<br />
Thus, along with Imam Zamana (a.s.) the memory of Imam Husain (a.s.) too is revived every Friday.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ziyarate Ashura and Imam Mahdi (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>)</b></span><br />
<br />
One of the most authentic Ziyarats is Ziyarat-e-Ashura. The
Infallible Imams (a.s.) and in particular Imam Zamana (a.s.) have
greatly emphasized that this ziayarat should be recited every day.
Traditions speak of enormous rewards for the one who recites it. In this
Ziyarat too Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is discussed.<br />
<br />
<i>‘O Allah! You give me the opportunity and the good fortune to be
along with the victorious Imam from the descendants of Muhammad
(s.a.w.a.) so that I can seek avenge for him.”</i><br />
<br />
Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.), under the verse… <b>“and if anyone is slain unjustly,”</b> (Bani Israel 33) says:<br />
<br />
“Imam Mahdi is the “Mansoor” (the helped one) just like how the
Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) is referred to as Ahmad and Muhammad and
Janabe Eisa (a.s.) is called Maseeh.”<br />
<br />
This also means that Mansoor is one of the names of Imam Mahdi (a.s.).<br />
<br />
<i>‘‘</i><i>O Allah! You give me the nobility and the opportunity
to be alongside Imam Mahdi (a.s.) when he is avenging the blood of Imam
Husain (a.s.) while he is visible and speaking.”</i><br />
<br />
In this sentence is the prayer for the early reappearance of Imam
Mahdi (a.s.) along with the plea for assisting him rightfully and
avenging the slaying of Imam Husain (a.s.).<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Day of Ashura and the Remembrance of Imam Mahdi (</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A.S</b></span>)</b></span><br />
<br />
Just as the way Imam Mahdi (a.s.) has been mentioned in
Ziyarat-e-Ashura, similarly amongst the recommended acts on the day of
Ashura is to offer each other condolences on the severe tribulations
braved by Imam Husain (a.s.) in the following manner:<br />
<br />
<i>“May Allah grant us the highest rewards due to colossal calamity
that befell Imam Husain (a.s.). May He include us and you amongst those
who take revenge under the Mastership of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) who is from
the progeny of Imam Husain (a.s.).”</i><br />
<br />
Take note, that on this day of severe afflictions, Imam Mahdi (a.s.) is mentioned along with Imam Husain (a.s.).<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Imam Husain (a.s.) and Raj’at (the return)</b></span><br />
<br />
In the light of Islamic teachings, just as the reappearance of Imam
Mahdi (a.s.) is a certainty, similarly Raj’at too is a certainty. Raj’at
means that after the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (a.s.) those who have
left this world will be brought back to life. Only those who don’t
believe in the Day of Judgment will consider Raj’at to be impossible.<br />
Those who believe that the dead will be re-enlivened, are of the view
that when the Day of Judgment nears it will not be surprising if some
people are brought back to life following the reappearance of Imam Mahdi
(a.s.) and his reign, as it is in accordance with the Sunnah of Allah.<br />
Amongst those who will return is Imam Husain (a.s.). According to a
tradition from Imam Sadiq (a.s.), the first person for whom the Earth
will split open to remerge is Imam Husain Ibn Ali (a.s.).<br />
(Behaar ul Anwaar, vol. 53, page 39; Tafseer e Burhaan, vol. 2, p. 408)<br />
<br />
In another tradition Imam Jafar as-Sadiq (a.s.) says:<br />
<br />
<i>“The first amongst those who will return is Imam Husain (a.s.)
and his faithful companions. At the same time Yazeed and his forces too
will return and they all will be killed.”</i><br />
<br />
After this Imam Jafar as-Sadiq (a.s.) recited the following ayat:<br />
<br />
<b>“Then We will make you prevail again and will help you with wealth and children and increase your numbers.” </b>(Bani Israel: 6)<br />
<br />
(Behaar ul Anwaar, vol 53, p. 76; Noorus Saqalain vol 3, p. 140)<br />
<br />
In a tradition from Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) it is mentioned:<br />
<br />
<i>“On the eve of Ashura, Imam Husain (a.s.) told his companions: “…
heaven awaits you, after what will happen with us. Following that we
will rest for as long as Allah wishes. Then Allah will bring us back to
life, when our Qaem will reappear. Then revenge will be taken from the
oppressors. Then you and I will see them chained and tied with ropes and
will witness them facing the severest of punishment.”</i><br />
<br />
(Kefaayah al-Muhtadi, pp. 105-106)<br />
<br />
Have you realized how strong is the bond between Imam Husain (a.s.)
and Imam Mahdi (a.s.)? They are mentioned together at all places. They
gave tidings about each other and will fulfill each others aims.<br />
O Allah! Include us all amongst the sincere servants of Imam
Wali-e-Asr (a.s.) and raise us with the faithful companions. O Lord of
Husain (a.s.)! For the sake of Husain (a.s.), for the tranquility of the
heart of Husain (a.s.), hasten the reappearance of Hujjat (a.s.)!<br />
<br />
Aameen!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.almuntazar.com/?p=1487" target="_blank">Source</a> <span id="goog_1195992582"></span><span id="goog_1195992583"></span></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-9477306160180455942012-08-20T04:01:00.000-07:002012-08-20T04:01:24.460-07:00Praying For Imam Mahdi (A.S.)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O6QS2B7bJVk/UDIWeFLXKKI/AAAAAAAABCs/Qx4VLlFEnPw/s1600/Suplication-Dua.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O6QS2B7bJVk/UDIWeFLXKKI/AAAAAAAABCs/Qx4VLlFEnPw/s1600/Suplication-Dua.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Supplication (dua) is a subject that holds a very significant place in Islam. A lot of emphasis has been placed on embracing it. In light of traditions, we find that supplication is referred to as a 'weapon' by which man can repel calamities and difficulties and can combat all kinds of problems and tribulations. This 'weapon' provides him with tremendous strength and power and with its help a believer can pierce through all the curtains in front of him and scale such a lofty status that he becomes the cause of happiness and satisfaction of the Prophets (a.s) and Imams (a.s).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Traditions of Imams (a.s) highlight numerous benefits that one obtains by supplicating. We mention a few of them over here. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Bonding / Relation:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whenever man is surrounded by difficulties, he generally finds himself alone to deal with them. At such a time, he needs his Creator the most. So it is necessary that his relation with his Creator is exact and enduring and which manifests his humility and modesty before his Lord. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Purpose of Worship:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In times of tribulations, worries, homelessness and such other difficulties, man complains only to his Creator. But it is a human shortcoming that man, in his haste, forgets what Allah desires of him. Allah has very clearly conveyed to his Prophet (s.a.w.a) that </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'I have not created men and jinn except that they should worship Me' </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Surah Zaariyaat (51): Verse 56) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Similarly, Ameerul Momineen (a.s) says, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'Supplication is the essence of worship'.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">But man has become so immersed and polluted in this material world that he has forgotten the sayings of the infallible Imams (a.s). He will have to face the consequences of his deeds in this world as well in the hereafter. As Ameerul Momineen (a.s) asserts, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'…today is the day of action and not of accounting while tomorrow is the day of accounting and not of action'. </b>(Nahjul Balagha; Sermon no 24)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Therefore, it is imperative that we ponder over our actions and take account of ourselves before death overcomes us. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Almighty Allah, in His infinite Grace, has shown His weak and frail servant the method of asking from Him so that he is guided to the right path. He says in the Holy Quran '<span style="font-size: large;">Call out to me and I shall answer you' </span>(Surah Momin (40): Verse 60)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, it is necessary for man to know the manner of supplicating before he actually invokes. When man is aware of the right way to beseech Allah, he will most surely succeed in reaching his aim. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Guidance towards the Right Path:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is essential to utilize the channel of divine representatives so that our prayers are accepted promptly. These divine representatives are the guides to the correct path. They are also referred to as <b>'Door of Allah'</b> since Allah is reached (only) through them. Allah mentions about this in the Holy Quran </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">'And seek a medium to (reach) Him' </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Surae Maidah (5): Verse 53) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Prayers are accepted by sending benedictions and blessings upon these venerated personalities, as it is solely due to them that calamities and difficulties are dispelled from the universe. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Who are these chaste personalities?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">They are the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) and his progeny about whom he (s.a.w.a) had willed </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">'<b>Surely I am leaving among you two weighty things - the Book of Allah and my Ahle Bait (a.s.). If you fasten unto both of them, you will never go astray...'</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Ahle Bait (a.s.) are those respected personalities who are bestowed with the choicest of divine blessings. In today's era, it is Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s) who is the link between the Creator and the creatures and is the access to divine pleasure. These chosen individuals are the ones who have taught mankind the method of worship and prayer. Their speech and assertions rank only below the Words of Allah and are far superior to the words of other creatures. It is for this reason that those who hear their sayings are compelled to confess, 'Your words are light'. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">5. Subjects in Supplications:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is clearly explained in all Islamic teachings that merely asking from Allah is not sufficient. Rather, the prayers should be accompanied by actions, efforts and steadfastness. So, the one who is desirous of sustenance, should actually strive for sustenance, along with his supplications. Same is the case with the one who wants to acquire knowledge and repel ignorance. We find in our supplications various topics connected with ethics and divine laws. For instance, supplications like Jawshan-e-Kabir, Makaaremul Akhlaq are brimming with moral teachings. It is necessary for a true believer that he should adorn himself with the characteristics mentioned in these supplications. Invocations like Abu Hamzah Sumaali highlight the fact that Allah's Mercy and Grace are dominant over His Anger and Displeasure. Dua-e-Nudbah on the other hand exemplifies how divine proofs arrived successively for man's guidance. The supplication makes a mention of the chain of guidance right from the first divine representative - Hazrat Adam (a.s) till the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) and then continues till his last successor - Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s). It also mentions the troubles inflicted upon them. Yet another supplication is Dua-e-Faraj, which states that Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s) is the (rightful) successor of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) and will fill this world with justice and equality like it would have been filled with oppression and tyranny before him. After his reappreance, the slogan of 'There is no God except Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, Ali is Allah's slave' will get universal recognition and Allah will be worshipped in the best possible manner. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">6. Etiquette of Supplication:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In his book, 'Mishkaat al-Anwaar', the great Shia scholar Allamah Majlisi (r.a) writes </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">'Supplication is a conversation with the One to Whom we present all our needs and wants. Thus, it is necessary that man understands the real meaning of supplication and prays to Allah from the depth of his heart. Among the things to be kept in mind while supplicating is adopting a feeling of complete humility and helplessness, which are the two traits that we embrace even when seeking our needs from mere mortals. As a result, it is even more important that we hold fast to these priceless traits while seeking our needs in Allah's Court. Secondly, when a person asks for a favour from another servant of Allah, then he (i.e. the seeker) is willing to do everything for that person (i.e. the benefactor) and is not negligent about it, so that the benefactor is satisfied and happy with him. At the same time, the person who requires the favour will not do anything to upset the benefactor. Precisely, the same attitude is necessary while beseeching Allah. The true worshipper will always strive to perform those actions that are the means of Allah's obedience and proximity. In this regard,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) has said </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">'The one who supplicates (prays) without action is like the archer who shoots without a bow' </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Beharul Anwaar, vol. 93, p. 312) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the requisites for the early fulfillment of supplications is to have a high level of recognition. As the person rises in the levels of recognition, his supplications will be accepted that much faster. A person said to Imam Kazim (a.s) 'O son of the messenger of Allah! We pray to Allah but our prayers are not being answered' Imam (a.s) asked, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'Do you even recognise the one from whom you are asking?' </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another point to be kept in mind while supplicating is that our imploring and beseeching should be accompanied by crying and weeping. The more one expresses his helplessness and humility before Allah's Majesty, the more quickly He will respond. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">The person should keep his prayers only to himself because Allah, the Honourable and Merciful likes the one who prays to Him in privacy. Imam (a.s) says </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">'Pray from your heart and be sure that your prayers will be accepted'</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While supplicating, one should pray for other believers before he prays for himself. Hence, when a person is eager that his supplications be accepted quickly, he should first supplicate for others, which acts as a means for early acceptance of his own supplications. Imam Sadiq (a.s) says in a tradition </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'The one who prays for his forty believeing brothers before he prays for himself then his supplications for others and himself will (certainly) be accepted.' </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Beharul Anwaar vol. 39, p. 383) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">From these traditions, it becomes clear that if we are desirous of our supplications being accepted by Allah, it is necessary that we pray for the Imam of our time - Hazrat Sahebuz Zaman (a.t.f.s). It is because certainly Imam (a.t.f.s.) has been delegated with the task of distributing divine bounties. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">One factor that plays a major role in the acceptance of our supplications is sending 'salawaat' (blessings) upon the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) and his infallible progeny (a.s). Imam Sadiq (a.s) says </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'The supplication remains concealed until 'salawaat' is sent on the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) and his progeny (a.s)' </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Al-Kafi vol. 2, pp. 491-493) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">7. Reason for Praying for Imam-e-Asr (a.t.f.s):</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As we are aware, Allah has promised to avenge the oppression perpetrated on His Prophets and their Successors (a.s.). Particularly, the transgressions and cruelty inflicted on Imam Husain (a.s), the doyen of martyrs. He has also pledged that finally Islam will be the universal religion and polytheism will be wiped out from the face of the earth. Justice demands that once a promise is made it must be fulfilled and this covenant assumes even more serious proportions considering that it is made by none other than Allah, the Almighty. So for an early and swift fulfillment of this divine promise, it is necessary that we pray for Imam-e-Zamana's (a.t.f.s) well-being and earliest reappearance. Imam (a.t.f.s.) has himself urged the Shias </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">'Pray for the early reappearance because in it lies your deliverance.' </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Beharul Anwaar vol. 52, p. 29) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Praying for the earliest reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) is a very important responsibility of the Shias. Besides, there are numerous benefits that emanate when one supplicates for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">8. The benefits of praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s):</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are numerous benefits of praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) in this world as also in the hereafter. Here we enumerate a few of these benefits: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Rewards in this world:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To pray for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) is in fact a way of being attached with the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a). Imam Baqir (a.s) narrates </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">'<b>Joining relations (Sil-e-Rahm) purifies the actions, increases wealth, wards off calamities, makes accounting easy and postpones death.' </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Beharul Anwaar vol. 47, p. 111) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Calamities are turned away and there is an increase in sustenance. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. Our other supplications are answered because of it (praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s)).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. It prepares a person for meeting Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) - whether he is awake or asleep.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">4. It increases bounties. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">5. Allah's Help is always at hand for him and he is able to overpower his enemies. As Allah says in the Holy Quran </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">'If you help (the cause of) Allah, He will help you'</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Surah Muhammad (42): Verse 7) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">6. The Shias will be revived at the time of Imam's (a.t.f.s.) reappearance - as is mentioned in Dua-e-Ahad. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">7. The Shias remain steadfast on religion and are secure from the corruptions of the last era. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">8. The Shias are protected from divine chastisement. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">9. The one who prays regularly for the early reappreance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) is considered like the one who has prepared the grounds for his reappearance. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Rewards in the Hereafter</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Allamah Syed Mohammed Taqi Isfahani (r.a.), in his book 'Mikyalul Makarim' has written numerous advantages of praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s). We mention a few of them hereunder: </div><div style="text-align: justify;">10. The one who prays for the early reappearance of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) becomes entitled to receive the intercession of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) and his progeny (a.s). </div><div style="text-align: justify;">11. He will receive the intercession of Imam Mahdi (a.s) on the Day of Judgment. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">12. His sins will be forgiven </div><div style="text-align: justify;">13. He will receive the reward of avenging the blood of Imam Husain (a.s). </div><div style="text-align: justify;">14. The light of the Holy Quran will guide him. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">15. He will get the honour of being among the nearest servants of Allah. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">16. Seventy thousand of his sins will be forgiven </div><div style="text-align: justify;">17. His heart will be contented on the Day of Judgment </div><div style="text-align: justify;">18. He will get the reward of twenty Hajj and Umra. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">19. One thousand of his wishes will be fulfilled on the Day of Resurrection. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">20. Angels seek forgiveness for the one who prays for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s). </div><div style="text-align: justify;">21. Satan becomes fearful and crestfallen </div><div style="text-align: justify;">22. The person gets 1/3 reward of the entire mankind </div><div style="text-align: justify;">23. He will get glad tidings at the time of his death, in Barzakh and in Qiyamat. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">24. He will get the reward of being martyred while being in the army of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s). </div><div style="text-align: justify;">25. The proximate angels attend gatherings in which there are supplications for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s). </div><div style="text-align: justify;">26. In the light of authentic traditions, praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) during occultation is better than praying for him after his (a.s) reappearance. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Special occasions for praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s):</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the same book, particular instances and times have been mentioned for praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) </div><div style="text-align: justify;">27. Day of Arafah (9th Zilhajj) </div><div style="text-align: justify;">28. Eid-ul -Fitr </div><div style="text-align: justify;">29. Eid-ul -Zoha </div><div style="text-align: justify;">30. Dahyul Arz (25th Zilqad) </div><div style="text-align: justify;">31. Day of Aashoora </div><div style="text-align: justify;">32. Night of 15th Shabaan </div><div style="text-align: justify;">33. Day of 15th Shabaan </div><div style="text-align: justify;">34. Month of Ramazan </div><div style="text-align: justify;">35. 6th night of the month of Ramazaan </div><div style="text-align: justify;">36. 12th night of the month of Ramazaan </div><div style="text-align: justify;">37. 18th & 19th night of the month of Ramazaan </div><div style="text-align: justify;">38. 21st of month of Ramazaan </div><div style="text-align: justify;">39. After mourning for Imam Husain (a.s) </div><div style="text-align: justify;">40. After reciting the ziarat of Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s) </div><div style="text-align: justify;">41. While crying due to the fear of Allah </div><div style="text-align: justify;">42. On acquiring a new bounty or when some difficulty gets solved </div><div style="text-align: justify;">43. At the time of grief and sorrow </div><div style="text-align: justify;">44. At the time of calamities </div><div style="text-align: justify;">45. After reciting Tasbeeh </div><div style="text-align: justify;">46. Before praying for our family members </div><div style="text-align: justify;">47. Day of Ghadeer </div><div style="text-align: justify;">48. Throughout the day and night </div><div style="text-align: justify;">49. In gatherings (majaalis) where affairs of Ahlul Bait (a.s) are discussed and their enemies are cursed. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">50. Praying continuously for forty days. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">51. In the month of Moharram </div><div style="text-align: justify;">52. Places that have been greatly emphasized for praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s): </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just as special occasions have been mentioned for praying for Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s), likewise, particular places have been enumerated for remembering Imam (a.t.f.s.). Some of them are mentioned below: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. In Masjid-ul -Haraam. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. In the planes of Arafah. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. In Sardaab (in the house of Imam Hasan Askari (a.s.) in Saamarraa - Iraq). </div><div style="text-align: justify;">4. In those places that are associated with Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s). Like Masjid-e- Sehlah, Masjid-e-Sa'sah, Masjid-e-Jamkaran, Masjid-e-Kufa, etc. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">5. Near the holy grave of Imam Husain (a.s) </div><div style="text-align: justify;">6. Near the holy grave of Imam Reza (a.s) </div><div style="text-align: justify;">7. In Saamarra, near the holy graves of Imam Ali Naqi (a.s) and Imam Hasan Askari (a.s) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Finally, we pray to Allah that He should accept our humble efforts. We are well aware that our insignificant efforts are of no value. Yet we are hopeful of His Mercy and Forgiveness and pray to Him </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'…O King! We and our entire family have been afflicted by distress. And we have brought with us insufficient measure. So give us full measure and be charitable to us. Surely Allah rewards those who are charitable. </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Surah Yusuf (12): Verse 88) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pens have dried up but tears continue to flow the moment the agony of separation from the beloved is felt in the heart. So much so, that a voice echoes in the ears which says 'Be patient, he will surely come'. Yet a thought keeps crossing our minds, 'But when?' As days keep passing by while praying for Imam (a.s), the vision gets more blurred, the back feels more burdened and the hair gets whiter. Death is hastening towards us at relentless pace and soon will grip us in its clutches. In this silent and dark night, a voice emanates from the heart </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">'When will you see us and we see you while you are seen hoisting the flag of victory.'</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Dua-e-Nudbah)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=4782">http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=4782</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-85295084189449782122012-07-24T11:34:00.000-07:002012-07-24T11:34:12.513-07:00Ramadan al Kareem: Spring of the Holy Qur'an<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YW0Qo9pS3J8/T_8Kus7plcI/AAAAAAAAA7w/h2QlgANtT7E/s1600/Ramadhan-al-muqadas.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YW0Qo9pS3J8/T_8Kus7plcI/AAAAAAAAA7w/h2QlgANtT7E/s1600/Ramadhan-al-muqadas.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In this holy month, we have been fortunate to be given a very good opportunity, one that has been given to us without asking or begging Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>). Many a times, one does not avail a bounty simply because he cannot recognize its significance and cannot appreciate the bounty, and therefore is unable to benefit from these momentary, limited windows of opportunity. On the other hand, the law of opportunities is also very unique. As mentioned in narrations, <b>opportunities come like clouds and pass away the same way. They do not wait.</b> They do not knock repeatedly on someone's door. They do not come back again. When one is fortunate to get such an opportunity, he should be thankful for the bounties given to him in the form of the opportunity. One should welcome it, one should hug it, one should embrace it. The holy month of Ramadan al-Kareem is one amongst those great occasions which Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) has gifted us with.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is not a minor thing that we have just lived though another year and we have again entered the holy month of Ramadan al-Kareem. Whatever the Holy Qur'an says about this holy month of Ramadan al-Kareem is familiar to you; the picture that the Qur'an paints of this month is present in your minds:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"The month of Ramadan</b><span style="text-align: left;"><b> al-Kareem</b></span><b> is one in which the Qur'an was sent down as guidance to mankind, with manifest proofs of guidance and the Distinguisher (between right and wrong)." (2:185)</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Qur'an has declared Ramadan al-Kareem as the month in which the Holy Qur'an descended. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>It is found in the narrations of the Family of the Prophet (peace be upon them all) that Ramadan</b><span style="text-align: left;"><b> al-Kareem</b></span><b> is known as <span style="color: #38761d;">Rabi al-Quloob,</span> <span style="font-size: large;">"Spring for the Hearts".</span> </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just as the earth experiences the season of spring, so does the heart. The season of spring isn't simply the passing of days and night. In fact, you would have felt that during the season of spring, the earth is in a very different state. Hard land, dry land, barren land, deserted land, sandy land, rocky land, waterless land, all these all of a sudden become soft, just by the system of the Creator. Though no one ploughs on this land, dead seeds inside the earth come to life. You may have noticed how grass comes out of the earth, then it becomes dry and its seeds get mixed with the earth in its soil. Throughout the year, these seeds remain inside the soil: summer comes and passes away, autumn comes and passes away, and then the winter comes. In these three seasons, those seeds remain preserved in their dormant state inside the soil. But as soon as the season of spring commences, the same dead seed inside this dead land turns green. By the command of the Creator, the earth becomes soft again. It develops the capability to accept the seed inside it. It develops the ability to grow that seed. With the command of the Creator, it turns green and comes out of the earth, and then on it grows flowers and fruits. What a beautiful sight it is to see! How delicious is the taste of these fruits. How aromatic is the scent of these flowers. Due to the qualities of the season of spring, the same dead seeds from the same dead earth now start to blossom, and this miracle of creation becomes visible to the human being.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>It is mentioned in the narrations that the holy month of Ramadan</b><span style="text-align: left;"><b> al-Kareem</b></span><b> is the spring of hearts, the spring of the Holy Qur'an. </b>This does not refer to that heart which is in our chest, or the heart behind the ribs of our chest, but instead that heart which is of <b><span style="color: #38761d;">our soul,</span></b> that which is the true and sensational heart of the human being. This heart of the soul passes through different seasons as well – spring, summer, autumn, and winter. You have seen the land during winter, when cold air blows, water freezes, and snow falls. Soft things become frozen and hard. Similarly, the human heart also experiences such transitions and such changes. There is a particular human state in which the human heart also becomes frozen. Just like ice, it freezes. In this state, the remembrance of Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) becomes impossible. Sometimes the heart becomes dead like the vegetation in the autumn season – it cannot accept any guidance. In order to freshen up this heart, make it blossom, make it green and lively, this heart of the human being, which is the land of Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) – <span style="font-size: large;">"the heart of a believer is the throne of the Lord"</span> – Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) has established a season called the holy month of Ramadan. The heart softens in this month. In this month, the days that pass have a profound effect. In this month, the state of a person in one day is different to the next. The same sun rises each day, the same days turn into nights, but now, in this holy month, there is a strong and strange feeling. Today, there is a visible readiness, a different preparation. Today, the heart is ready to accept something. It is seeding something.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">What does the heart need? Guidance from Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>). His heart's focus is now towards Allah </div><div style="text-align: justify;">(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) , towards the vicinity of his Lord. His concentration is towards Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>). He is prepared. Hence, Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) the Merciful has established Ramadan al-Kareem for the Qur'an's descent. <u><i><b>Nuzool</b></i></u> (descent or revelation) of the Qur'an is not what we generally think it is. In general, our perception of <u><i><b>Nuzool</b></i></u> is that which we see, the materialistic and physical <u><i><b>Nuzool</b></i></u>, like something lying on the roof coming down or the drop of rain when it comes down from the cloud. We say that it has descended, it has come down. It actually refers to the act of when something comes down to a lower location from a higher physical location, just like an elevator in a building. For us, that is descent. The Qur'an has not descended in the form that it was once in some "higher" location, some bodily form, or it was on the seventh heaven and then it came down because heaven is above us and the earth is below. This is not the way the Qur'an descended. In fact, the Qur'an is light, the Qur'an is guidance, and the Qur'an is the word of Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>). It was never before in any physical location, or after, or at present. If there exists a location for the Qur'an, it is not a physical one. It is a position or a state, and that position is the heart. <b>The heart of a human being is the position of Qur'an.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The meaning of the descent of the Qur'an is that this guidance of our Lord was in such a position that it was beyond our reach. It was not suitable for our understanding. The Qur'an was in the <u><i><b>Lawhe Mahfuz </b></i></u>(Protected Tablet). <b><i><u>Lawhe Mahfuz</u></i></b> is not the name of any frame, the way we see wooden tablets or tablets made from stone. It is not the name of any physical tablet. The <u><i><b>Lawhe Mahfuz</b></i></u> is a position, a status in this entire universal creation, it is one position. And the Qur'an was in that high position, and we are in this position, a very lowly position, to which the Qur'an has referred to as Asfala Safileen: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Then We reverted him to the lowest of the low." (95:5)</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now, when the Qur'an was in the Protected Tablet, it was not suitable to understand for the people sitting in Asfala Safileen. The Qur'an was not suitable to be understood. This does not mean that the Qur'an was complex, or the Qur'an was complicated, or that the Qur'an had some discrepancies. On the other hand, the Qur'an has always been a healer for us, it has always been a call for us, it has always been distinct, always clear, always manifested, and a source of enlightenment. But the capacity of those who want to understand it is limited. Their position is very low; their level of understanding is very low. Hence, they are not able to understand the Qur'an.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Sometimes, if the message of the speaker is beyond the reach of his audience, he is asked to come down a little, lower his level of discussion to one that is understandable, comprehensible, digestible.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The meaning of <b><i><u>Nuzool</u></i></b> is the same: to present something in a form in which it is understandable, at a lower intellectual level. Presenting the same thing in the manner that everyone can understand is referred to as <b><i><u>Nuzool</u></i></b>. The Qur'an was above our level of understanding. In order to enable its essence to reach us, it was dressed in words, whereas previously it was not in the form of words. This is the meaning of <b><i><u>Nuzool</u></i></b> of the Qur'an: to be available in a form where we can understand it, or at least one in which we can possess the capability to understand it. And when does the Qur'an become understandable? The recitation of the Qur'an is not enough to reach an understanding, and similarly, listening to the Qur'an does not get us there either. The center which Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) has granted us to understand the Qur'an is <span style="color: #38761d;">our Qalb</span>, our heart. But on this Qalb, many seasons pass over, and much is harvested over it. It has different states. Sometimes the heart becomes very hard. Sometimes it is even harder than a stone. Sometimes the heart becomes locked, and sometimes on the heart develops dirt and filth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) has granted this opportunity, the holy month of Ramadan al-Kareem, to bring hearts near to the Qur'an, to build an association with it. Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) has blessed us with this opportunity without us asking Him for it. He realizes our needs. Ramadan al-Kareem is the month of spring of the hearts. Those hardened hearts, those harder-than-stone hearts, those locked and sealed hearts – in this month they become tender. This is spring season, and in spring season, every land becomes soft. But if this land is left untended, barren, without planting a seed in this land, without being watered, without any care-taking, then it will remain dead as it was. Spring will come and go; the land remains hard and rocky. The need is for us to make this land a farming field, plant seeds, water it, grow something on it. This is a very tough land, but on the other hand this season of spring is marvelous. Whatever seed you plant, it will sprout, it will grow out. This is why Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) has referred to the holy month of Ramadan al-Kareem as the month of Nuzool of the Holy Qur'an.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Fasting is amongst the essential Adaab or etiquettes of this month. The grandeur and status of the month of Ramadan al-Kareem is not because of fasting. The grandeur of the month of Ramadan al-Kareem is due to the Qur'an. Fasting comes under the category of Adaab for this holy month. It is the discipline of the month of Ramadan al-Kareem to fast in this month. The one who does not fast is an ill-mannered person. But it is not that one who fasts will achieve all the blessings of the Qur'an, or will collect all the blessings of month of Ramadan al-Kareem with just one fast! Fasting makes our hearts tender. Fasting prepares our soul for a better understanding of the Qur'an and enables it to properly accept the guidance.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">You would have heard the responses of many believers when they are asked as to why they did not participate in Qur'anic lessons, Qur'anic commentary lessons, and why Qur'anic lessons were not organized. Their answer: "Because we were fasting, and it left us weak, without stamina, and we couldn't stand up during the fasts." Examine how the objective of fasting is put aside. Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) has made fasting a prerequisite to understand the Qur'an, and we consider fasting as an obstacle in understanding the Qur'an. Why don't you read the Qur'an? Why don't you perform other acts of worship? Why? "Because we are fasting," they say. Why don't you read religious books? "Because we are fasting," they say. Is fasting an obstacle or a prerequisite to attain guidance? Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) has made fasting obligatory to enable us to understand the Qur'an better and also make others understand better. We think fasting is an obstacle to understanding Qur'an, when it is in fact simply a prerequisite to understanding the Qur'an!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hence, this opportunity is a highly bonded opportunity. Its significance is much beyond what imaginations we have in our minds. This opportunity has been granted by Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) to us, without our seeking it, without our invocations. So let us present these tender hearts, these soft lands in Allah's (<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) presence and say,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"O Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>), whatever seed you desire, plant it in this land that I am presenting to you. The seed which Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) will plant is the seed of guidance in the form of the Qur'an. It is essential to read it, understand it. It is necessary to spend day and night with it. It is essential to become associated with the Qur'an. It is essential to become <b><i><u>Mahram</u></i></b> to the Qur'an. The <u><i><b>non-Mahram</b></i></u> cannot understand the Qur'an. Don't become <u><i><b>non-Mahram</b></i></u> to the Qur'an. Become a <u><i><b>Mahram</b></i></u> to the Qur'an. This expression of <u><i><b>Mahramiyat</b></i></u> is a very fine and precise discussion. We only apply the concept of <b><i><u>Mahram</u></i></b> and <b><i><u>non-Mahram</u></i></b> to gender or male-female relationships, but <u><i><b>Mahramiyat</b></i></u> is much broader than that. When you go for Hajj, when you wear the Ihram, you become <u><i><b>Mohrim</b></i></u>. You enter the Haram of Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>), you now become a <u><i><b>Mahram</b></i></u> there. The Mohrim, the one who wears the Ihram, becomes a Mahram of Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>), and hence he says Labbaik ("I have come"). He has entered inside the four walls, he has entered the Haram, he is a <u><i><b>Mohrim</b></i></u> now, and hence <u><i><b>Mahram</b></i></u>. He is now a vicegerent of divine spiritual secrets. In the same manner we should become <u><i><b>Mahram</b></i></u> to the Qur'an. We should not treat the Qur'an as a <u><i><b>non-Mahram</b></i></u>, and behave as <u><i><b>non-Mahram</b></i></u> with the Qur'an. Don't live with the Qur'an as a stranger.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Accept the Qur'an. This is the best possible opportunity. You have seen that vegetation that grows in spring, the harvest which comes out. It remains throughout the year. Even during the summer, some greenery is still visible, some fruits are still present, and some flowers are still seen. They are not the flowers of summer. They are the same flowers of spring which remain preserved over summer, and they are preserved during autumn and winter as well. Those who sleep during the spring time, for them their spring is also autumn, and their spring is also winter. But for those who are awake in the season of spring, all of the other three seasons are brought to life by spring.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is in our control if we desire we can make our autumn a spring, but the condition is that we should realize the value of this month. May Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>) give us all the opportunity in this holy month of Ramadan al-Kareem. Considering the value of this month and by the will of Allah(<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span lang="ar" style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" xml:lang="ar">سبحانه و تعالى</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.571428298950195px; line-height: 18.85714340209961px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"></span>), we will soak ourselves with the guidance of Qur'an.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Sayyid Jawad Naqvi</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.islamicinsights.com/religion/religion/">http://www.islamicinsights.com/religion/religion/</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-61553008259478144902012-07-16T09:58:00.000-07:002012-07-16T09:58:34.833-07:00The Night of Destiny : Lailatul-Qadr<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IXT2dDNUXwg/T_8KxuJ1XfI/AAAAAAAAA8c/P0ihY6LDuPM/s1600/shab-e-Qadr.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IXT2dDNUXwg/T_8KxuJ1XfI/AAAAAAAAA8c/P0ihY6LDuPM/s1600/shab-e-Qadr.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) is quoted on page 265, Vol. 3, of al- Amin's work Miftahul Jannat, saying, <b>"Allah has favored Friday over all other days, the month of Ramadan over all other months, and the Night of Destiny (Lailatul-Qadr) over all other nights." And Allah has favored the Holy Qur'an over all other Books which He revealed.</b> Ibrahim, one of the companions of Imam Abu Abdullah al-Sadiq (as), is quoted on p. 25, Vol. 94, of Bihar al-Anwar, saying that he once asked the Imam (as) about how the Holy Qur'an was revealed during Lailatul-Qadr, knowing that it took more than twenty years to reveal. The Imam (as) answered by saying, "The Holy Qur'an was revealed as a whole during the month of Ramadan at the Ancient House (the Ka'ba), then from there it was revealed along the span of (more than) twenty years." Then he cited the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) saying <b>"The Books of Ibrahim (as) were revealed on the first night of the month of Ramadan; the Torah was revealed on the sixth of the month of Ramadan; the Gospel (Injil) was revealed on the thirteenth of the month of Ramadan; the Psalms (Zabur) were revealed on the eighteenth of the month of Ramadan, and the Holy Qur'an was revealed on the twenty-fourth of the month of Ramadan." </b>This tradition is also recorded on p. 80, Vol. 1, of al-'Ayyashi's Tafsir.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YW0Qo9pS3J8/T_8Kus7plcI/AAAAAAAAA7w/h2QlgANtT7E/s1600/Ramadhan-al-muqadas.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YW0Qo9pS3J8/T_8Kus7plcI/AAAAAAAAA7w/h2QlgANtT7E/s1600/Ramadhan-al-muqadas.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>This name was used for Lailatul-Qadr because Allah Almighty determines in it for everyone all what will happen the entire next year. The "Qadr" in this sense means destiny. According to al- Qummi's Tafsir, as explained on p. 432 of its second volume, such destiny includes life and death, sustenance, abundance of crops or famine and everything good or bad. This means that Allah the Glorified and Exalted determines in this night each and every event to Occur during the next year to any and all of His creation.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Al-Majlisi quotes his father on p. 12, Vol. 94, of his own Bihar al Anwar quoting al-Nadar quoting Yahya al-Halabi quoting Ibn Maskan quoting Imam Abu Abdullah al-Sadiq (as) saying, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"During Lailalul-Qadr, the angels, the spirit, and the trusted scribes all descend to the lower heavens and write down whatever Allah decrees that year, and if Allah wishes to advance something or postpone it or add thereto, He orders the angel to erase it and replace it with whatever He decrees." </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is also confirmed by al-Qummi in his renown Tafsir, exegesis of the Holy Qur'an. On p. 182, Vol. 1, of Uyun Akhbar al-Rida, and on p. 14, Vol. 94, of Bihar al-Anwar, Ja'fer ibn Ali ibn Ahmed quotes al-Hassan ibn Muhammad ibn Ali ibn Sadaqah quotes Muhammad son of 'Umer ibn 'Abdul-'Aziz quoting al-Hassan ibn Muhammad al-Nawfali quoting Sulayman al- Marzawi asking Imam al-Rida (as),</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Could you please tell us why the Chapter of Qadr was revealed?" The Imam (as) said, "O Sulayman! Lailatul-Qadr is the night when Allah, the most Exalted, the most Great, decrees what will take place from one year to another of life or death, good or evil, or regarding sustenance, and whatever He then decrees is sure destiny."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On p. 315 of Ma'ani al-Akhbar, and also on p. 18, Vol. 94, of Biharal-Anwar, Ibn Musa quotes Ibn Zakariyya citing Muhammad ibn al-Abbas quoting Muhammad ibn al-Sary quoting Ahmed ibn Abdullah ibn Yunus quoting Ibn Tareef quoting Ibn Nubatah quoting Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) saying, 'The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) asked me once,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>'O Ali! Do you know the implication of Lailatul- Qadr?' I said, 'No, indeed, O Messenger of Allah!' He (pbuh) said, 'Allah, the Praised One, the Most Glorified, decreed in it what will take place till the Day of Judgment, and among what He, the most Exalted, the Most Great, decreed was your own Imamate and Wilayat and the Imamate and Wilayat of your offspring till the Day of Resurrection."</b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Both Ma'ani al-Akhbar and Bihar al-Anwar quote Sa'd citing the great traditionist Abdullah son of 'Umer ibn al-Khattab quoting Muhammad ibn 'Ubayd ibn Mahran quoting Salih quoting Salih ibn 'Uqbah quoting al-Fadl ibn 'Uthman saying, "When the Chapter of Qadr was mentioned in the presence of Abu Abdullah Imam Ja'fer al-Sadiq (as), he was asked about its merits over other chapters, and he said, 'It was revealed with reference to the Wilayat of the Commander of the Faithful (Imam Ali) (as).' He (as) was asked, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'Do you mean Lailatul-Qadr for which we look in anticipation during the month of Ramadan?' He (as) said, 'Yes; it is the night in which the heavens and the earth were determined, and the Wilayat of the Commander of the Faithful (as) was decreed."'</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ahmed ibn Muhammad and Ahmed ibn Ishaq, as recorded on p. 21, Vol. 94, of Bihar al-Anwar, quote al-Qasim ibn Yahya quoting others citing Imam Abu Abdullah (as) saying that Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) quite often used to say, 'We saw the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) once in the company of al-Taymi and a friend of his while the latter was reciting Chapter al-Qadr. He (pbuh) was profoundly moved and he kept weeping to the extent that he (pbuh) was asked, 'How so deeply moved by this Chapter your heart is!' He (pbuh) said, 'My heart is deeply impressed because of what my eyes had witnessed, and what my mind had comprehended, and because of what the heart of this man [meaning Ali (as)] will go through after me.' Both men asked the Messenger of Allah (pbuh), 'Did you really see all of that?! And what will he (Ali) see?' He (pbuh) would then recite the verse saying, 'The angels and the Spirit descend therein with the permission of their Lord for every affair; peace, it is, till the break of the morn.' Then he (pbuh) would pause and ask them, 'Is there anything left after the Almighty having verbally said 'every affair'?' They would both answer in the negative, and he (pbuh) would then ask them, 'Do you both know regarding whom it is revealed?' They would both say, 'No, by Allah, O Messenger of Allah!' He (pbuh) would then say, 'Yes; is there going to be a Lailatul-Qadr after me (i.e., after my demise)?' They would answer in the affirmative, and he (pbuh) would then ask them, 'Will every affair descend therein?' They said: 'Yes.' He then asked them, 'To whom will it descend?' They answered, 'We do not know.' He (pbuh), with his hand on my head, pushed me gently forward and said, 'If you do not know, then it is regarding this person after me.' Both men, ever since the demise of the Messenger of Allah (pbuh), used to be filled with awe whenever that night approached."'</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Almighty says, <b>"Therein every wise affair is made distinct" (44:4).</b> This means that in this night, the Exalted One decrees everything that will happen next year. It is also said in Arabic that someone has a <b>"qadr,"</b> a social status or a certain prestige, which he enjoys among people. The <b>"Qadr"</b> in this sense, therefore, also connotes prestige and significance. The Almighty also says in the Holy Qur'an, "They did not honor Allah as He ought to be honored," that is, they did not glorify Him as He ought to be glorified; thus, <b>"qadr"</b> in this verse implies glorification. Lailatul-Qadr, then, is the great night which enjoys a great deal of prestige and high esteem with Allah and in which He determines and decrees the fate and sustenance of all His creation. It has a special status simply because obedience to Him during it is regarded with great seriousness and urgency, and a great reward awaits those who honor the month wherein it falls.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is also said that it was so named because a Book from Allah which enjoys greatness of status was revealed to a Prophet who also enjoys a great honor and prestige. Another view is that it was named so because the earth becomes straitened due to the number of angels on it. <b>"Qadr,"</b> according to this view, carries the meaning of straitness due to the fact that the Almighty has said "... and whoever He decides to straiten his sustenance...." and Allah knows best.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Almighty has addressed His servant and Messenger, our master, Muhammad (pbuh), saying, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"And what will make you comprehend what Lailatul-Qadr is? Lailatul-Qadr is better than a thousand months;"</b> that is, <b>"How would you know the greatness, significance, and sanctity of this night which I have decreed to be better than a thousand months?"</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are indications that the Holy Qur'an was revealed as a whole to the Messenger (pbuh). In the Holy Qur'an, we read: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Haa, Meem. By the Book that makes (the truth) manifest, surely We revealed it on a blessed night" (44:1-3),</b> and also, <b>"Surely We revealed it on Lailatul-Qadr" (98:1).</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ibn Abbas is quoted saying, <b>"The Holy Qur'an was revealed as a whole from the Safeguarded Scroll from the heavens to the lower earth on Lailatul-Qadr, then Gabriel (as) used to reveal it unto Muhammad (pbuh) gradually."</b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is well known that the Holy Qur'an was revealed unto the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) in installments during a period of twenty-three years. The first chapter revealed unto the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) at the Cave of Hira was the Chapter of al-'Alaq when Gabriel said to him: "(O Muhammad!) Read!" He (pbuh) said: "I cannot read." He repeated, "Read!" Again the Prophet (pbuh) said, "I cannot read." So he said once more, <b>"Read in the Name of your Lord Who created..." (96:1),</b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">up to the end of the chapter. The last verse of the Glorious Book of Allah revealed unto the Messenger (pbuh) was: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Today have I completed for you your religion, perfected My blessing unto you, and accepted Islam as your religion" (5:3). </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thus, suffices this blessed night the honor and dignity of being particularly chosen by the Glorified and Exalted One for the revelation of His Glorious Qur'an which is the shining and guiding light of the religion of Islam and the constitution of its adherents.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Why is Lailatul-Qadr better than a thousand months? Why not better than ten or a hundred thousands? </b>! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Al-Qummi indicates on page 432, Vol. 2, of his Tafsir, that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) once saw in a vision monkeys climbing over his pulpit, and he felt very distressed; thereupon, the chapter of Qadr was revealed to remove his distress. The period of Banu Umayyad's government lasted roughly a thousand months: from 661 to 750 A.D., with the first ruler being Abu Sufyan and the last Mu' awiyah al-Himar. Both al-Kulayni in his Al-Kafi and al-Majlisi in his Bihar al-Anwar quote Ahmed ibn Muhammad quoting Ali ibn al-Hassan quoting Muhammad ibn al-Walid and Muhammad ibn Ahmed quoting Yunus ibn Ya'qub quoting Ali ibn 'Eisa al-Qammat quoting his uncle quoting Imam Abu Abdullah al-Sadiq (as) saying, 'The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) was shown in a vision how Banu Umayyah climbed over his pulpit (like monkeys climb over trees), so he felt very unhappy, whereupon Gabriel (as) descended upon him and asked him why he was so forlorn. He (pbuh) said, 'I have seen (in a vision) tonight Banu Umayya ascending my pulpit after having misled people from the Straight Path.' Gabriel (as) said, 'I swear by the One Who has sent me (as a messenger) with the truth, this is something with which I am not familiar.' Having said so, he ascended to the heavens. After a short while, he brought him one verse to remove thereby his grief; it said: 'Have you considered if We would let them enjoy themselves for (a few) years, then that with which they are threatened comes to them, so much so that whatever they were permitted to enjoy shall not avail them (in the least)?' (Holy Qur'an, 26:205-207). And he also brought him: 'We revealed it in Lailatul-Qadr, and what will make you comprehend what Lailatul-Qadr is? Lailatul-Qadr is better than a thousand months..., etc."'</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Lailatul-Qadr is a blessed night also because the Almighty brings down during it goodness, bliss, and forgiveness for His servants. One tradition of the greatest of all prophets Muhammad ibn Abdullah (pbuh) states that when Lailatul-Qadr approaches, the Almighty orders Gabriel (as) to descend accompanied by a crowd of angels to the earth with a green banner. He would mount the banner atop the Ka'ba while having six hundred wings one of which is not spread except on Lailatul-Qadr; so, he would spread them during that night, and he and all other angels would greet everyone who is standing for his prayers, sitting, adoring, or reciting the Holy Qur'an. They would shake hands with them and pray the Almighty to accept their pleas, and they would continue doing so till daybreak. It is then that they would ask Gabriel: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"What has the Almighty Allah done with the wishes of the believers among the nation of Muhammad (pbuh)?"</b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He would answer, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"The Almighty Allah has looked upon them on this night and forgiven them, all of them, except the following: one who is addicted to drinking, one who severs his ties with his kin, and one who is a trouble-maker."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Almighty has said, <b>"Lailatul-Qadr is better than a thousand months,"</b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">meaning, mathematically, that this night, which is comprised of a few hours, is honored by Allah the Exalted and Praised over about eighty-three years which is the equivalent of a thousand months. The Umayyads fought Islam since its inception, then they fought the family of the Prophet (pbuh), that is, Ahl al- Bayt, the whole time they were in power. The first self-declared Umayyad ruler was Abu Sufyan, and the last was Mu'awiya al-Himar. If you trace the period extending from the first year during which Abu Sufyan forced his authority on the Muslims until the Umayyad lost grip over power, you will come to a figure equivalent to a thousand months. It is as if the Holy Qur'an is saying that one night in the sight of Allah is better than all the thousand months those corrupt Umayyads ruled the Muslim masses by sheer force.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Almighty has also said, "Peace, it is, till the break of the moon," that is, "Lailatul-Qadr is a night of peace and tranquility against all evils, tribulations, and the mischief of the devils. No evil can take place during it, nor can a demon practice his evil designs. It is peace for the devotees who are greeted whenever they are met by the angels. The angels greet them and greet you, O Muhammad, and so does My Spirit, since the moment they descend from heavens and till the time of daybreak."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">According to the book titled al-Iqbal which cites Kansul Yawaqeet by Abul-Fadl ibn Muhammad al-Harwi, the Prophet (pbuh) has said, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Whoever remains awake during Lailatul-Qadr and spends it in adoration will have his penalty postponed till the next year." According to the same reference, the Prophet (pbuh) says that Moses (as) once addressed the Almighty saying, "Lord! I desire to be near to You." The Almighty said, "Whoever desires nearness to Me is one who remains awake during Lailatul-Qadr (worshipping Me)." He said, "Lord! I wish to earn Your mercy." The Almighty said, "My mercy is granted to anyone who is merciful to the indigent during Lailatul- Qadr." He said, "Lord! I wish to pass on the right path." He said, "This is granted to anyone who spends alms during Lailatul-Qadr." He said, "Lord! I wish to enjoy the trees and fruits of Paradise!" The Almighty said, "This is granted to anyone who praises Me during Lailatul-Qadr." He said, "Lord! I wish to achieve salvation from the fire!" He said, "This is granted to anyone who seeks forgiveness during Lailatul-Qadr." He said, "Lord! I wish to achieve Your pleasure!" The Almighty said, "I shall be pleased with anyone who prays two (optional) rek'ats during Lailatul-Qadr."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The same book quotes the Holy Prophet (pbuh) saying that the gates of heaven will be opened during Lailatul-Qadr; every devotee who performs prayers during it will receive a tree in Paradise for each prostration he makes, a tree under whose shade a rider may keep riding for a hundred years without leaving its shade. And he will receive for each rek'a a mansion in Paradise of pearls, sapphires, chrysolites and diamonds. For each verse he recites he will receive one of the crowns of Paradise. The tradition is lengthy and it contains quite a generous reward indeed.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Al-Dooryasti, in Kitab al-Husna, relying on the authority of Abu Ja'fer al-Jawad who quotes his forefathers quoting Imam al- Baqir, peace be upon all of them, the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) is quoted saying that whoever spends Lailatul-Qadr adoring his Lord will have all his sins forgiven even if they had numbered as many as the stars in the heavens, the weight of the mountains, or the measures of the seas. Al-Harwi reported a similar tradition which is recorded in Kanz al-Yawaqeet.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, is quoted on page 5351 of Al-Sahih al-Jami' citing the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) saying, <b>"Lailatul-Qadr is easy, airy, neither very hot nor very cold; the sun rises on its morning colored pale red." </b>The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) is also quoted saying, <b>"At the morning of Lailatul-Qadr, the sun rises without rays, looking like a washbowl, till it is high."</b> This tradition is reported by Muslim and al-Tirmithi. The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) is also reported saying, <b>"Lailatul-Qadr is a serene night, neither hot nor cold, and no comet is hurled during it. One of the signs of its advent is that the sun rises without a ray."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Zad al-Ma'ad quotes a few scholars who believe in its perpetuity, indicating that some of them say that it is at the conclusion of the year; therefore, it has to be observed during all nights of the year so that one of them will be it. Others say that it is in Sha'ban and the month of Ramadan, while still others say that it is the night of the middle of Sha'ban. Others say that it is the beginning of the month of Ramadan, while others say it is the middle of it; yet others say it is the seventeenth. Still others say it is the twenty-ninth of it, while others say it is the last night of it, and most Sunnis of our time are of the view that it is the twenty-seventh. This proves that the reason why it was not determined exactly is due to the purpose of observing the entire month.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On Lailatul-Qadr did the night journey (israa) to heavens take place, and the Almighty raised Jesus son of Mary (as) to Him. On it, His servant and prophet Moses (as) died, and so did Joshua son of Noon, the wasi of Moses, peace be upon both of them. Also on it was the commander of the faithful Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib (as) martyred.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Relying on the authority of Abu Ja'fer, peace be upon him, a few narrators of hadith have indicated that the Prophet (pbuh) had been asked once about the Night of Destiny (Lailatul-Qadr). So he ascended the pulpit and, having praised the Almighty, he (pbuh) said,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"You have asked me about the Night of Destiny. I have not concealed the knowledge of it from you out of my ignorance thereof. Be informed, O people, that whoever during the month of Ramadan is healthy, and he fasts during its days and performs prayers during a portion of its nights and is punctual regarding the obligatory prayers, and makes an effort to attend congregational prayers on Fridays during it and attends the Eid prayers as well, he will then have honored the Night of Destiny duly, and he will receive his reward from the Creator."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do you need any more clues regarding the greatness of Lailatul-Qadr? Then let us tell you that the authors of Thewab al- A'rnal and Bihar al-Anwar have cited the son of al-Mutawakkil quoting Muhammad al-Attar quoting al-Ash' ari quoting Muhammad ibn Hassan quoting Ibn Mahran quoting al-Bataini quoting his father quoting Abu Busayr quoting Imam Abu Abdullah al-Sadiq (as), the men whose truthfulness is not doubted even by the most skeptic scholar, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>saying that whoever recites Surat al-'Ankabut (The Spider) and Surat al-Rum (Romans) during the 23rd night of the month of Ramadan will secure admission into Paradise without any exception.</b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On p. 19, Vol. 94, of Bihar al-Anwar, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">the Imam (as) is quoted adding, <b>"I do not fear lest Allah should record that I have committed a sin for having said s; surely these two Chapters enjoy a great status with Allah."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.al-islam.org/beliefs/practices/fasting/11.html">http://www.al-islam.org/beliefs/practices/fasting/11.html</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-16062999392696731572012-07-16T09:15:00.000-07:002012-07-16T09:15:38.076-07:00The Sermon Given By The Prophet (S.A.W.W) On The Last Friday Of Sha'ban On The Reception Of The Month of Ramadhan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LtPXEblmzTw/T_mMIhIKLGI/AAAAAAAAA6o/yu7B_waD7ws/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S-Ramdhan.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LtPXEblmzTw/T_mMIhIKLGI/AAAAAAAAA6o/yu7B_waD7ws/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S-Ramdhan.gif" /></a></div>“O People !<br />
<br />
"Indeed ahead of you is the blessed month of Allah. A month of blessing, mercy and forgiveness. A month which with Allah is the best of months. Its days, the best of days, its nights, the best of nights, and its hours, the best of hours. It is the month which invites you to be the guests of Allah and invites you to be one of those near to Him. Each breath you take glorifies him; your sleep is worship, your deeds are accepted and your supplications are answered. So, ask Allah, your Lord; to give you a sound body and an enlightened heart so you may be able to fast and recite his book, for only he is unhappy who is devoid of Allah’s forgiveness during this great month. Remember the hunger and thirst of the day of Qiyamah (Judgement) with your hunger and thirst; give alms to the needy and poor, honor your old, show kindness to the young ones, maintain relations with your blood relations; guard your tongues, close your eyes to that which is not permissible for your sight, close your ears to that which is forbidden to hear, show compassion to the orphans of people so compassion may be shown to your orphans. Repent to Allah for your sins and raise your hands in dua during these times, for they are the best of times and Allah looks towards his creatures with kindness, replying to them during the hours and granting their needs if he is asked...<br />
<br />
"O People! Indeed your souls are dependant on your deeds, free it with Istighfar (repentance) lighten its loads by long prostrations; and know that Allah swears by his might: That there is no punishment for the one who prays and prostrates and he shall have no fear of the fire on the day when man stands before the Lord of the worlds.<br />
<br />
"O People! One who gives Iftaar to a fasting person during this month will be like one who has freed someone and his past sins will be forgiven.<br />
<br />
Some of the people who were there then asked the Prophet (s): "Not all of us are able to invite those who are fasting?"<br />
<br />
The Prophet (s) replied: "Allah gives this reward even if the Iftaar (meal) is a drink of water."<br />
<br />
"One who has good morals (Akhlaq) during this month will be able to pass the ‘Siraat’...on the day that feet will slip...<br />
<br />
"One who covers the faults of others will benefit in that Allah will curb His anger on the day of Judgement...<br />
<br />
"As for one who honors an orphan; Allah will honor him on the day of judgement,<br />
<br />
"And for the one who spreads his kindness, Allah will spread His mercy over him on the day of Judgement.<br />
<br />
"As for the one who cuts the ties of relation; Allah will cut His mercy from him...<br />
<br />
"Who so ever performs a recommended prayer in this month Allah will keep the fire of Hell away from him...<br />
<br />
"Whoever performs an obligator prayer Allah will reward him with seventy prayers [worth] in this month.<br />
<br />
"And who so ever prays a lot during this month will have his load lightened on the day of measure.<br />
<br />
"He who recites one verse of the holy Quran will be given the rewards of reciting the hole Qur’an during other months.<br />
<br />
"O People! Indeed during this month the doors of heaven are open, therefore ask Allah not to close them for you; The doors of hell are closed, so ask Allah to keep them closed for you. During this month Shaytan (Saten) is imprisoned so ask your Lord not to let him have power over you."<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.al-islam.org/Ramadhan/sermon.htm">http://www.al-islam.org/Ramadhan/sermon.htm</a> </div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-18674200563939953762012-07-16T09:09:00.000-07:002012-07-16T09:09:39.504-07:00Imam Sajjad (A.S) Welcomes the Month of Ramadhan ul Mubarak<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4DWhJoAdm88/T_8KwiXZv2I/AAAAAAAAA8Q/N8Wq9UuyWeE/s1600/Ramazaan-ul-mubarak.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4DWhJoAdm88/T_8KwiXZv2I/AAAAAAAAA8Q/N8Wq9UuyWeE/s1600/Ramazaan-ul-mubarak.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Praise be to Allah, who ordained this month, the month of Ramadhan, the month of fasting, the month of Islam, the month of purity, the month of purification, and the month of prayers. In this month the Qur'an was made to descend as a guidance to mankind and contains clear instructions and distinctions. He gave this month superiority over all other months by giving it abundant honor and dignity. He prohibited in it what He has allowed in other months in order to exalt it, and forbade in it food and drink in order to honor it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">O Lord! Bless Muhammad and his family, and inspire us to know this month's excellence, and to honor its dignity, and to abstain from whatever You have forbidden in it. Help us to observe its fast, by restraining our limbs from disobeying You, and by employing them in that which would please You, so that we may not lend our ears to any vain speech, and may not direct our eyes, hands and feet towards anything forbidden, and that nothings fills our stomachs except what You have made lawful, and our tongues may not utter anything except what You have allowed.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">O Lord! Bless Muhammad and his family, and give us grace to perform timely the five prayers with due regard to their limits which You have enjoined, and the rites which You have prescribed. In this respect, raise us to the rank of those who performed them with success, who duly observed their essential points, who always performed them at proper times, in most perfect and complete humility according to the rules laid down by Your Prophet, may You blessings be on him and his family.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And our Lord, give us grace in this month, to show favors to our relations, and do good to them, and to take care of our neighbors and do good to them, to take care of our neighbors with kindness and benevolence, to purge our property of obligations, and purify it by giving charity, and to call back those who have left us, and be just to those who were unjust to us, and make pace with those who were hostile to us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">O Lord! Erase our sins with the disappearance of this month's crescent, and free us from our penalties with the completion of its days, so that the month may pass from us while You have cleansed us of our guilts, and freed us from our sins. O Lord! Fill this month with our worship of you alone, and adorn its moments with our service to You, and help us in the daytime to observe the fast, and at night to pray and beseech You, help us to humble ourselves before you and lower ourselves in Your presence.</div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-51297051755119557802012-07-13T03:34:00.000-07:002012-07-16T10:00:34.398-07:00Laylatul Qadr : Better Than A Thousand Months<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9kuXtf3c5M/T0d1fdhm8gI/AAAAAAAAAvs/Gf14eg3Pgi0/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9kuXtf3c5M/T0d1fdhm8gI/AAAAAAAAAvs/Gf14eg3Pgi0/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9kuXtf3c5M/T0d1fdhm8gI/AAAAAAAAAvs/Gf14eg3Pgi0/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-02.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The month of Ramadhan has been singled out for special worship (`Ibadat) and exclusive favours. It is a month unlike other months. One reason for this, as defined by the Qur'an, is because the Holy Qur'an was revealed in this month. Says Allah in Sura alBaqarah: The month of Ramadhan, that in which the Qur'an was sent down; a guidance for mankind, and clear signs of guidance and distinction (2:185). In fact, according to a hadith of the 6th Imam (a), the other holy books were also revealed in this month.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Among the nights of Ramadhan is one special night, which is better than a thousand months (HQ, 97:3). Good deeds performed on that single night are equal to those performed over a thousand months. It is the Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr), when the Qur'an was revealed. Some commentators believe it was the night when the Qur'an was brought down from Baytul M`amur (Heavenly abode), for Jibrael to reveal in parts to the Prophet (s). Others say it was the night when the Prophet received the entire Qur'an, but was asked to transmit it as and when the occasion demanded.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Laylatul Qadr is a celebration to commemorate the arrival of the final guidance for humans. It is a tribute to the commencement of the message revealed to mankind by their Creator, a message which shows them the way to achieve happiness in both the worlds. Just as the arrival of a child is celebrated, on its birth and then every year, as a bringer of joy and fulfilment for the family, Laylatul Qadr is celebrated as a bringer of light and guidance for mankind. Unlike the birthday which is celebrated with a feast for the senses, Laylatul Qadr includes a feast for the spirit, a feast of worship and prayers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Some Ahadith indicate that the fate of every believer for the coming year is decreed on this night. That is why the Du`as for this night ask for special favours in the decree for the year. Believers are encouraged to stay awake the entire night, and pray for blessings and forgiveness. It is the holiest night of the year, and it would be unwise to be heedless of the tremendous benefits of this night.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>A Night Greater than One Thousand Months:</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xT9RVfGRcJQ/T0d-Yq7xaZI/AAAAAAAAAv8/fHVTXpVEJPg/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xT9RVfGRcJQ/T0d-Yq7xaZI/AAAAAAAAAv8/fHVTXpVEJPg/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-05.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, is the most blessed night of the entire year. Its significance and glory has been described and discussed in the Holy Qur'an itself, as well as in numerous traditions. Can we imagine its full import and can we comprehend its full glory? The Holy Qur'an asks, "And what will make you comprehend what the grand night is?" (97:2) The night is loftier in importance and weightier in blessings than one thousand months! It's the night of determination of our destinies, and the night when the Holy Qur'an was revealed. It's a night of power, of glory, and of blessings.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Some of the salient features of this great night are discussed as follows:</div><div style="background-color: white; height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll; padding: 10px; width: 590px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Revelation of Holy Qur'an</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The verse from Sura Qadr, "Surely We revealed it on the grand night," (97:1) and another from Sura Baqara, "The month of Ramadan is that in which the Qur'an was revealed, a guidance to men and clear proofs of the guidance and the distinction…" (2:185) together signify to us that the Qur'an was revealed on the Laylatul Qadr. Was the Qur'an revealed all at once on this night? Or it was revealed in gradual time periods extending over 23 years of the Holy Prophet's (peace be upon him and his progeny) prophethood?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The scholars of Qur'anic exegesis tell us that the holy Qur'an was revealed in two ways: it was revealed on this great night upon the Holy Prophet's sacred heart, and it was also gradually revealed over a period of 23 years during his prophethood.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The month of Ramadan makes the heart of believers pliant and conducive to accept any guidance. Fasting opens our hearts for acceptance of divine guidance, thus this month is like the spring season of the Qur'an. Just as barren land which is not capable of growing any vegetation becomes fertile in spring when life-giving rains fall on it, so is the effect of Ramadan on our hearts. The Night of Power is the epitome of guidance and blessings, as this night carries the significance of being bestowed with Holy Qur'an.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Determination of Destinies</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is the night when destinies are set, as stated in the Qur'an: "Surely We revealed it on a blessed night – surely We are ever warning – Therein every wise affair is made distinct"(44:3-4). There are many traditions which inform us that on this night, our affairs are set for the whole year.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is worth noting here from the commentary of Aqa Mahdi Puya: "On the Night of Power, the divine wisdom determines the solution of all spiritual pursuits man decides to undertake; therefore the Holy Prophet has advised the believers to pray and seek Allah's mercy throughout this night…Imam Ali (peace be upon him) said: 'People wrongly imagine that destiny is abiding and fate is certain. If it were so, the idea of reward and penalty becomes meaningless, promise and threat a hoax. Allah, the most praised, has given man freedom of thought and action.'</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The freedom of action is conditioned by the laws made by Allah to govern the universe. No one can break them. Imam Ali said: 'While standing, if you want to lift one of your legs you can, and you are free to lift the second leg also – but as soon as your second leg leaves the ground you will fall down, because you have broken the law Allah has so precisely put in operation."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Some Other Related Points About this Great Night</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Which night is the Night of Power?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are different views on which night of the month of Ramadan is the Night of Power. There have been supporters for the1st, 17th, 19th, 21st, 23rd, 27th, or 29th night of the month of Ramadan. There are traditions that Holy Prophet would stay busy with prayers and worship especially during the last ten nights, thus there is more emphasis on those nights. Most of the traditions from the Ahlul Bayt (peace be upon them) point out the 23rd night as the Night of Power, while most of the traditions in Ahlus Sunnah consider the 27th night as Laylatul Qadr.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Why is Laylatul Qadr hidden?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Scholars say that the philosophy behind hiding the Night is so that we pay importance to all the nights of Ramadan and thereby get the maximum spiritual benefit from them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Is there only one Night of Power in all the regions of the world?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We are aware of the fact that the lunar calendar dates are different in different parts of the world. Taking that into consideration, will there be multiple Nights of Power in regions where the dates are different? The answer to this is that the night and day alternate with the revolution of the earth on its axis. So the Night of Power will start from one point and will continue to move over the regions where night is falling. In this way it would be a whole rotation of one night covering each region of the earth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>In conclusion is the following supplication from Sahifa Sajjadiyya:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And praise belongs to God who</div><div style="text-align: justify;">showed favour to us through His religion,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">singled us out for His creed,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and directed us onto the roads of His beneficence,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">in order that through His kindness we might travel upon them</div><div style="text-align: justify;">to His good pleasure,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a praise which He will accept from us</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and through which He will be pleased with us!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And praise belongs to God who appointed among those roads His month,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">the month of Ramadan,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">the month of fasting,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">the month of submission,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">the month of purity,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">the month of putting to test,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">the month of standing in prayer,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">in which the Qur'an was sent down as guidance to the people,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and as clear signs of the Guidance and the Separator!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then He made one of its nights surpass the nights</div><div style="text-align: justify;">of a thousand months</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and named it the Night of Decree;</div><div style="text-align: justify;">in it the angels and the Spirit descend</div><div style="text-align: justify;">by the leave of their Lord upon every command,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a peace constant in blessings</div><div style="text-align: justify;">until the rising of the dawn</div><div style="text-align: justify;">upon whomsoever He will of His servants</div><div style="text-align: justify;">according to the decision He has made firm.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">O God,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">bless Muhammad and his Household,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">inspire us</div><div style="text-align: justify;">with knowledge of its excellence,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">veneration of its inviolability,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and caution against what Thou hast forbidden within it,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and help us to fast in it</div><div style="text-align: justify;">by our restraining our limbs</div><div style="text-align: justify;">from acts of disobedience toward Thee</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and our employing them</div><div style="text-align: justify;">in that which pleases Thee,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">so that we lend not our ears to idle talk</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and hurry not with our eyes to diversion,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">we stretch not our hands toward the forbidden</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and stride not with our feet toward the prohibited,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">our bellies hold only what Thou hast made lawful</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and our tongues speak only what Thou</div><div style="text-align: justify;">hast exemplified,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">we undertake nothing but what brings close to</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thy reward</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and pursue nothing but what protects from</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thy punishment!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then rid all of that from the false show of the false showers</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and the fame seeking of the fame seekers,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">lest we associate therein anything with Thee</div><div style="text-align: justify;">or seek therein any object of desire but Thee!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><a href="http://islamicinsights.com/religion/religion/a-night-greater-than-one-thousand-months.html">http://islamicinsights.com/religion/religion/a-night-greater-than-one-thousand-months.html</a> <br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Preparing for Laylatul Qadr! </b></span><b>Is there a need to prepare for Laylatul Qadr?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nSM_i-jgHJQ/T0eBdF3KQYI/AAAAAAAAAwE/7gY8-mkr0Us/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nSM_i-jgHJQ/T0eBdF3KQYI/AAAAAAAAAwE/7gY8-mkr0Us/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-04.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In order to answer this, let us define what the word 'PREPARE' means? Simply, put it means to make ready or fit, to bring into a suitable state, to make one ready for, e.g. when we want to prepare a meal, or go out for an event, we must have a GOAL in mind.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As in what is my end result, the final dish or my final destination where I wish to end up. And as per the subject under discussion i.e. "Preparing for Laylatul Qadr" our GOAL is to take full benefit/make full use of the BOUNTIES and RAHMA that Allah (SWT) bestows opens us in this night of LAYLATUL QADR.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is important that we first understand the significance of LAYLATUL QADR in order that we know what sort of 'ingredients' are required for our preparation to reach the Ultimate Goal which is earning the pleasure of Allah (SWT).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: white; height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll; padding: 10px; width: 590px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">What is Laylatul Qadr or Night of Power therefore?</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">You are all aware of its importance so I will just briefly re-run through it. In surah Al-Qadr Allah (SWT) clearly states:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Surely We revealed it (the Holy Quran) on the grand night. And what will make you comprehend what the grand night. The grand night is better than a thousand months. The angels and Gabriel descend in it by the permission of their Lord for every affair, Peace! It is till the break of the morning." Holy Quran (97:1-5)</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Allah (SWT) is inviting all the believers for a Divine feast; the invitation which has been brought by the messengers. Allah (SWT) is the host, his most favorite angels are the servants and the believers are the guests. The table is spread with Divine blessings containing all sorts of rewards and favors. Though the eyes cannot see them nor the ears hear them not the human hearts imagine them, yet the bounties are all kept in readiness to be awarded to the guests in accordance to his/her actions.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Laylatul Qadr is a blessed night because the Almighty brings down during it goodness, bliss, and forgiveness for His servants. It is a feast which has come with a message that shows one the way to achieve happiness in both the worlds. Laylatul Qadr is a feast for the spirit, a feast of worship and prayers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ahadith indicate that the fate of every believer for the coming year is decreed on this night. When our Prophet Mohammad (saw) was asked how man could enjoy the favors and good grace of proximity to, and mercy of, Allah (SWT) he quoted Prophet Moosa / Musa / Moses (peace be upon him) supplication:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Oh My God, I seek proximity to You; He (Allah) said: Proximity to Me is for him who stays awake on Laylatul Qadr.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh My God, I am in need of Your Mercy; He (Allah) said: My Mercy is for him who shows mercy to the poor on Laylatul Qadr.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh My God, I am in need of the passport to cross the bridge; He (Allah) said: that is for him who give alms on Laylatul Qadr.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh My God, I am in need of the trees in Paradise and their fruits; He (Allah) said: that is for him who seeks forgiveness on Laylatul Qadr.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh My God, I seek deliverance from fire; He (Allah) said: that is for him who remembers Allah on Laylatul Qadr.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh My God, I seek Your good pleasure; He (Allah) said: that is for him who says a two Rakat prayer on Laylatul Qadr."</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On another occasion Prophet Moosa / Musa / Moses (peace be upon him) said: "Oh My God, are You far away that I shout at You, or are You near that I whisper to You?" He (Allah) said: "O Musa, I am sitting together with you!"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What do we therefore have to remind ourselves about Laylatul Qadr?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We have to remind ourselves about Laylatul Qadr that is:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A unique once in a year opportunity to do a life times worth of activity.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A once in a year occasion for influencing our future destiny - "QADR" - Taqdeer.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Full of long lasting blessings.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The night of unsurpassed grandeur when the absolute Grand God revealed the Grand Quran through the Grand Wahy - Jibreel into the heart of the Grand Prophet Mohammad (saw).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Ma'sumeen have explained to us that God in his infinite wisdom had planned the system of the universe in such a way that every persons destiny will be determined on a yearly basis in the angelic spheres through the agency of the Imam of the age. Who is the leader and focus of the whole spiritual world this gives MANKIND a unique opportunity to influence his own future (gain, loss, health, sickness, richness, poverty, etc by performing certain acts, e.g. Dua, Salat, Sadaqah, Jihad, acquiring knowledge, Holy Quran recitation etc.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The night when the whole multitude of angels and the Great Spirit (Ruh) descend on earth, greeting and praying for the believers and conveying messages to the Imam of age.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do we than still need to <span style="font-size: large;"><b>PREPARE OURSELVES FOR LAYLATUL QADR</b></span> after knowing its significance?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yes, Let us imagine for a moment that we are invited for a special feast by the president of our country, who also tells us in advance that he is going to reward us with magnificent gifts as per the way we present and behave ourselves during the feast - What would we do?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After the initial euphoria, we would leave no stone unturned to present ourselves in the best possible manner. Preparations of what to wear, how to get there, what will I speak with the president. If I have to go through his secretary what will I say to him, what sort of gifts will I take with me, what sort of conversation I have with him, all this and more will be thought about, rehearsed and re-rehearsed. Correct me if I am wrong!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">All this 'tension' in honor of an invitation from the President of a country. Laylatul Qadr is an invitation form the President of all Presidents, The Supreme One. Do we need to make preparations for this night?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Undoubtedly, we must start our preparations way ahead of time, after all going by human nature (Fitra), there is more than profit that can be got from this feast of Laylatul Qadr unless out of sheer carelessness we end up amongst those negligent and idle ones, who do not achieve anything except tiredness, loss and eternal doom, who will gain nothing except regret and cry out aloud on the day of Reckoning:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Ah! Woe is me! In that I neglected (my duty) towards Allah." - Holy Quran (39:56)</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What sorts of Pre-preparations are needed before the advent of this grand Laylatul Qadr?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Jibreel was asked; "What has the Almighty Allah (SWT) done on this night with the wishes of the believers among the nation of Prophet Mohammad (saw)?" He answered, "The Almighty Allah (SWT) has looked upon them on this night and forgiven them, all of them, except the following: "One who is addicted to drinking, One who severs his ties with his kin, and One who is a trouble-maker."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We have been advised to beseech Allah (SWT) during the whole year before the arrival of the Night of Power or Laylatul Qadr, to keep us alive for this night:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To bestow upon us the Tawfiq to remain vigilant during this night and pray for blessings and forgiveness.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To bless us that we are able to do the best of deeds on this night.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To comprehend fully the importance of this night which is superior to one thousand months.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To pray that we can become one of the favorites of Allah (SWT) and be blessed with His love, learning, nearness, union, pleasure, together with health, happiness, and welfare.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To yearn and act so that Allah (SWT) be so pleased with us in such a manner, that after this night He would never be displeased us again.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To pray that our Aimma especially the Imam-ul-Asr (as) be pleased with us intercede on our behalf.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">How to prepare oneself for The Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr)?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>(I) Preparing Mentally</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Strive to keep Allah (SWT) at the fore of one's mind the whole night long.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">All the Ibadah (worship) done should be recited in the state of being completely awake, aware, conscious, and with a live heart. If one feels that one will not be able to concentrate then start reciting from now "We are from Allah and towards Him is our return." - Holy Quran (2:156) for it is considered as a tragedy if one can not in this night receive the divine grace in supplications. "Their prayers ascend upwards and reaches Allah (SWT), their words are accepted, and Allah (SWT) loves to listen to their prayers the way a mother likes her own child."</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Is not it shameful that the prayers which ascend upwards should be recited from the tip of the tongue, while the heart and soul remain occupied in worldly affairs?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Many a times, one feels that one cannot 'properly' perform a certain Ibadah and so decided to forgo it. One should not do listen to this 'waswas' instead, one should perform it and more, for acceptance lies in the Hand of the Mercy of Allah (SWT).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>(II) Preparing Physically</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For worshipping in this night a suitable place, dress, and perfume should be arranged in advance (comfortable dress which does not distract us).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Paying alms during this night - to the people who really deserve financial support.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow the translation of the Duas in order to understand what you are reciting for lutf is only got when one knows what one is reciting.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>(III) Preparing Spiritually</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Increase ones eagerness for receiving the promised bounties and blessings.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Select worships and deeds which are more in harmony with ones mood.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When one stands for prayer, or any other Ibadah, to briefly spare a moment to think about the wisdom of that action/its meaning etc for e.g. Why am I standing towards Makkah? To realize that when I stand on my two feet, it indicates my hope and fear about the acceptance of my worship.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Resorting (Tawassul) to Ahlul Bayt (as) - With persistence, supplicating in a polite and soft manner, with words and content arousing their sympathies, should beseech them for bestowing upon us the grace of being vigilant during this night.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Crying and Shedding Tears: that during these nights ones fear, humility, tears, crying, anguish and lamentation be increased as much as possible. The Learned Scholar Hajj Mirza Javad Agha Maliki Tabrizi (ra) in his book (Suluk-i Arifan) Spiritual Journey of the Mystics tell us that One of the best method is that one should tie ones hands around ones neck; should pour dirt upon ones head; should place ones head against a wall; sometimes one should stand and sometimes one should cry; should imagine oneself at the scene of Judgment Day; and the way sinners are rebuked with harshness, then one should imagine and be scared least Allah (the Glorious, the Exalted) orders: "Lay hold on him, then put a chain on him, then cast him into the burning fire, then thrust him into a chain the length of which is seventy cubits." - Holy Quran (69:30-32)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then one should cry: "O' Thou are the most compassionate, and Thou Who are the shelter of unsheltered ones!" "Where is Your vast blessing? Where is Your infinite forgiveness? Where are Your love and benevolence?" Ask for forgiveness of past sins in the most appealing manner with a promise to try never to return to the sins again - a TAWBA in every sense of the word Present ones requests before the Almighty Allah (SWT) with full hope that they will be answered.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Prophet Mohammad (saw) when asked what one should invoke Allah (SWT) during these nights, said: "Ask for your safety (here and in the hereafter)".</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.ezsoftech.com/ramadan/ramadan32.asp">http://www.ezsoftech.com/ramadan/ramadan32.asp</a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Common' A'amaal for Laylatul Qadr</span></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hCpXPi91joc/T0eDyyyCnzI/AAAAAAAAAwM/xVZ0nKlcym0/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hCpXPi91joc/T0eDyyyCnzI/AAAAAAAAAwM/xVZ0nKlcym0/s1600/Laylatul-Qadr-03.jpg" /></a></div>Eve of Destiny (Laylatul Qadr) is the night, which is the most blessed and excellent of all nights. A prayer during this night is superior to the prayer of a thousand months. The destiny for the year is decided on this night. The Angels and Roohul Ameen (a highly dignified Angel) descend on this earth, with the permission of Allah (swt) & call on the Imam of the time, and what is ordained (by Allah) for everybody is presented before the Imam.<br />
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<a href="http://www.duas.org/laylat_aamaal.htm">http://www.duas.org/laylat_aamaal.htm</a> </div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-32172882412253356192012-07-12T12:13:00.008-07:002012-07-12T12:27:03.117-07:00Month of Ramadan ul Mubarak (From Mikyalul Makarim)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp6cZAQxASE/T_8KvxWBxSI/AAAAAAAAA8E/iu5wC0l7DuI/s1600/Ramazaan-al-kareem.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp6cZAQxASE/T_8KvxWBxSI/AAAAAAAAA8E/iu5wC0l7DuI/s1600/Ramazaan-al-kareem.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This month is the best for praying for the reappearance of Imam Zamana (a.t.f.s.), especially its nights, because it is the month of invocations. Hence,traditions have ordered for the same and thus, the significance of reciting Dua Iftetaah have been underlined in the nights of this month. Do not neglect this supplication for indeed, it is a noble and comprehensive prayer, encompassing the needs of both this world as well as the hereafter.Also supporting this matter is that which the chief of narration scholars,Shaykh Sadooq has mentioned in his book, Fadail Sharur Ramadan, through his own chain of narrators from Imam Ali Reza (a.s.) that he said with regard to the merits of the month of Ramadan: Good deeds are accepted in the month of Ramadan and the sins are forgiven. One who recites one verse of the Book of Allah, in the month of Ramadan will get the reward of reciting a whole Quran in other months. One who makes his believer brother smiles in this month, he would not be met except with a smile and given the good news of Paradise on Judgment Day. One who helps his believer brother in</div><div style="text-align: justify;">this month, will be helped by the Almighty when passing over the Sirat Bridge, on the day when his feet would be shaking. For one who controls his anger on this month, the Almighty Allah will keep away His anger. If a person helps an oppressed soul, Allah will help him against one who is inimical to him in this world, and will also help him at the time of the accounting of deeds.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The month of Ramadan is a month of mercy and blessings. It is month of forgiveness and return [to the court of Allah]; and one who is not forgiven in the month of Ramadan, then in which month would he be forgiven?! Thus, beg the Almighty Allah to accept your fasting and that He may not make it your last time. And that He should give you the good sense of obeying Him and protect you from His disobedience, as He is the best of those who are asked. (<span style="font-size: x-small;">Biharul Anwar; Vol. 96, Pg. 341 )</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I say: In Part Five we had stated that praying for an early reappearance and success of our master, Hazrat Hujjat (a.t.f.s.) is a kind of rendering help to him, from the aspect that we are encouraged to help the believers in this month and without any doubt helping the Imam (a.s.) is the best form of help.An evidence for this is a special Dua for this month quoted in Iqbal and Zaadul Maad from the fourth Imam, Imam Zainul Abideen (a.s.) and his son, Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) which begins as follows: <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Al-Kafi, Vol. 4, Pg. 162)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kCi-pmSSE0A/T_8fhJPyaSI/AAAAAAAAA-A/QgUllP_PYK0/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kCi-pmSSE0A/T_8fhJPyaSI/AAAAAAAAA-A/QgUllP_PYK0/s1600/1.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>O Allah, this is the month of Ramadan… I ask You to help the vicegerent of Muhammad and the successor of Muhammad and the one who will establish justice from the successors of Muhammad. Your blessings be upon him and them. Bestow Your help to them. </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Supporting this point also is the traditional report that Thiqatul Islam, Muhammad Ibne Yaqoob Kulaini has recorded in the Chapter of Fasting, in Usool Kafi from Muhammad bin Isa through his own chain of narrators from the Holy Imam (a.s.) that they said: Recite this Dua on the eve of 23rd of Ramadan in Sajdah (prostration), in sitting and standing, and go on repeating it as much as you can. So much so, that you learn it by heart for your life. Thus after praise and glorification of the Almighty Allah recite as follows:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wuZLSzOAuJQ/T_8fhPTZ5nI/AAAAAAAAA98/bhcqfwfpaWo/s1600/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wuZLSzOAuJQ/T_8fhPTZ5nI/AAAAAAAAA98/bhcqfwfpaWo/s1600/2.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>O Allah You be for so and so, at this hour and at every hour a Guardian, a protector, a leader, a helper, a guide and a protector, so that he is at ease and lives on your earth for a long time.</b></div><br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">I say: This tradition proves that praying for the important matter of hastening the reappearance is emphasized on the 23rd eve of Ramadan of all the times and occasions just as the month of Ramadan is more emphasized than other months. It is so because it is the best time for acceptance of supplications and gaining the best rewards. And also the angels and Ruhul Qudus come down on this night and the doors of mercy and success are thrown open and they are not thrown open on other nights. Rather it has been clearly mentioned in some traditional reports that this night is the same night of Qadr (power), which is better than a thousands months. Thus, Thiqatul Islam, Muhammad Ibne Yaqoob Kulaini has stated in Usool Kafi, Chapter of Miscellany, Book of the Merits of Quran through his own chain of narrators from Imam Ja’far Sadiq (a.s.) from the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) that he said: </span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Quran was revealed on the 23rd of the month of Ramadan.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Usool Kafi; Muhammad bin Yaqoob Kulaini; Vol. 2/629 </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> This tradition, along with the verse:<br />
<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iYKXVaMbFN0/T_8by08Ns3I/AAAAAAAAA9I/YCelBAACWHs/s1600/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iYKXVaMbFN0/T_8by08Ns3I/AAAAAAAAA9I/YCelBAACWHs/s1600/3.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Surely We revealed it on the grand night.</b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Surah Qadr 97:1</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><span style="text-align: justify;">…proves that the night of power is the same 23rd eve of the month of Ramadan, as is clear for people with sense. Muhaqqiq Noori, in his book, Najmus Thaqib, has quoted the above mentioned Dua in expanded version from Al-Mazmaar of Sayyid Ibne Tawoos (r.a.). It is as follows: </span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RE1j5p-w9E4/T_8fhnp26EI/AAAAAAAAA-E/ZdL9yHulYuI/s1600/4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RE1j5p-w9E4/T_8fhnp26EI/AAAAAAAAA-E/ZdL9yHulYuI/s1600/4.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>O Allah, be for Your Wali, one who will rise up with Your command, the Hujjat Ibnil Hasan al-Mahdi, upon him and his forefathers, the best of blessings and salutations on this time and at all times, the guardian, the protector, the leader and the helper, the proof and supporter till he lives in Your earth and enjoys its length and breadth. And make him and his progeny from the inheritor Imams. O Allah, help him and help through him (Your religion) and make help from You (special) for him and open upon his face </b><b>to victory and do not give this (rule) to anyone else. O Allah, make Your religion dominant through him and the Sunnah of Your Prophet, may Allah bless him and his family. So that they do not conceal anything from the truth due to the fear of the creatures. O Allah, indeed, I am inclined to the noble rule, in which Islam and its people are honored and hypocrisy and its people are debased. And make us the callers to Your obedience and guides to Your path. And give us good in the world and good in the </b><b>hereafter and save us from the Fire and gather for us all good of both the worlds and repay all our debts. And make for us good in it by Your mercy and generosity in prosperity. Amen, Lord of the </b><b>worlds and increase Your blessings on us and fill up our needs, for all You give is less than Your kingdom and Your bestowals increase Your kingdom.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><span style="background-color: white;">From Book </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #6aa84f; font-family: 'trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Mikyalul Makarim Fee Fawaaid ad-Duaa Lil Qaaim</b></span><br />
22. Whole month of ramadan Pg no. 67 Volume 2<br />
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<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51372397/Mikyalul-MakarimFee-Fawaaid-Ad-Duaa-Lil-Qaaim-Vol2" target="_blank">Link</a><br />
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-50098695886682358202012-07-12T10:37:00.001-07:002012-07-12T10:39:53.080-07:00Is Imam (a.t.f.s.) Observing Us?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzHRLSIrzrM/T_8Ku3W89VI/AAAAAAAAA74/MwsHey-GMMU/s1600/Imam-Mahdi.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzHRLSIrzrM/T_8Ku3W89VI/AAAAAAAAA74/MwsHey-GMMU/s1600/Imam-Mahdi.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The belief in the Imamat of Ahle Bait (a.s) is the basis of all (other) Islamic beliefs and laws. It is on the basis of this belief that one can comprehend the accurate and genuine concept of Tauheed. The real grandeur and magnificence of Prophethood (Nabuwwat) is reflected only in the mirror of this belief. Actions are correctly performed under the guidance of this doctrine and it forms the basis of acceptance of all actions. The one whose heart is devoid of this belief will be in a great loss on the Day of Judgment. Salvation and entry in paradise is restricted to those who subscribe to this belief. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">However, this belief does not imply that we only believe in the existence of our twelve Imams (a.s) and don’t consider them as our guidesand role models. The very fact that we consider these venerable personalities as our Imams (a.s) signifies that we accept them as our guides at every step and tread on their path without any questions. In all facets of our lives- individual or social, commerce issues or complex personal relations, or those dealing with family life and the worship of Allah and gaining His proximity- we should adopt those principles which are enumerated by these honorable personalities as the aim of our life and try to emulate them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This belief also demands that we acknowledge and are convinced that our Imams (a.s) are observing our actions and none of our deeds are concealed from them. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Witness to our actions </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam Sadiq (a.s) was asked about the meaning of the following Quranic verse: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘How will be the condition on the day of judgment when We shall bring forth a witness from every nation and We will make you (O Prophet) as a witness upon them.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Surah Nisa, Verse 41)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam (a.s) replied, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘This verse refers particularly to the nation of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). In every era an Imam from among us is a witness upon them and the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) is a witness upon us.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Al-Kafi, vol. 1, p.190, tradition 1)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another person asked Imam Sadiq (a.s) about the following Quranic verse in which Allah says:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘In this way have We made you as the middle nation so that you be a witness on the people.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Surah Baqarah, Verse 143)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam (a.s) replied:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“We are the ‘middle nation’. We are the witnesses of Allah upon the creation and His Proof upon them.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Ibid, tradition 2)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">From these traditions, it becomes clear that our Imam (a.s) witnesses our deeds. In order to become a witness, it is necessary that the person should have comprehensive knowledge about the thing that he witnesses. Hence when we say that our Imam (a.s) is a witness to our actions, it means that he has encompassing knowledge of all our actions. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Deeds presented before Imam (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A person by the name of Abdullah bin Aabaan az-Ziyaat was in the presence of Imam Reza (a.s). He requested Imam (a.s) that he (a.s) should pray for his well being and that of his family. Imam (a.s) replied, ‘Am I not doing like that? I swear by Allah that your deeds are presented to us every morning and evening.’ Abdullah says ‘I was surprised (to hear that our deeds are presented before Imam (a.s). Imam (a.s) is at one place while he has the information of the entire world!)’ </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam (a.s) replied: <b>‘Have you not read the verse of Quran which says Then do your (good) deeds. Allah and His prophet and the believers are a witness to your actions.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Surah Taubah, Verse 105) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>I swear by Allah (the word) ‘believers’ (in the verse) refers to Ameerul Mo’mineen (a.s).”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Al – Kafi, vol.1 p. 219, tradition 4)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s) used to say, <b> ‘Why are you people troubling the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)?’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One person asked, ‘How is it that we are troubling the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)?’ (i.e. Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) is not amongst us, then how can we hurt or upset him). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam (a.s) replied, <b>‘Are you not aware that your actions are placed before him (s.a.w.a.)? When he (s.a.w.a.) witnesses a sin among your deeds then he (s.a.w.a.) gets distressed and sorrowful. Don’t make the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) unhappy. Instead, try to make him (s.a.w.a.) cheerful.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Ibid., tradition 3)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Imam (a.s.) recognizes each one of us by our names</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">People are familiar with only those individuals whom they see and recognize and the majority consists of those individuals whom we don’t recognize. Therefore a smart and cunning person can deceive others who don’t really know him very well. However, none can deceive the Imams (a.s), because the Imams (a.s) recognize each and every one of us by our names.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam Reza (a.s) once wrote in one of his letters, <b>‘Hazrat Mohammed Mustafa (s.a.w.a.) is the Trusted One (Ameen) of Allah among His creatures. After his (s.a.w.a.) demise, we are his inheritors and are the trusted ones of Allah on this earth. We know who among you will be involved in which examination and calamity and where you will die. We know the lineage of the Arabs. We also know who will be born on the religion of Islam. If we see someone then we immediately recognize how strong is his faith and the amount of hypocrisy in him. And we have the names of our every Shia along with the names of his father.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Ibid., p. 223, tradition 1) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thus simply calling ourselves as Shias is not sufficient. Instead we should beseech Allah that our names should be included in the list of those Shias who are with our Imam (a.t.f.s.) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam (a.t.f.s.) has information of each and everything</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Janabe Mufazzal (r.a) once asked Imam Jafar Sadiq (a.s) <b>‘May I be sacrificed for you! Is it possible that Allah makes the obedience of a person obligatory on everyone but conceals from that person the knowledge of the heavens?’ </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> Imam (a.s) replied, <b>‘No. Allah is more kind, sympathetic and generous upon His servants than that He should make the obedience of an individual obligatory on everyone but should conceal the news of the heavens from him’. </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Ibid., p. 261, tradition 3) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In another tradition, Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s) declares, <b>‘Allah is much higher and greater than this that He makes the obedience to someone as obligatory on everyone else, but conceal from that person the knowledge of the heavens and the earth’.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Ibid., p. 262, tradition 6)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the light of these traditions it becomes clear that every morning and evening, the news of the heavens and the earth is presented before our Imam (a.s). In this way, he is aware of the minutest details of our actions.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Imam (a.s.) is more compassionate and tender than our father</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Not only are our Imams (a.s) aware of all our deeds and actions, but they are also affected by our pains and sufferings. The following incident underlines this fact and shows us how much our Imams (a.s) value and cherishes their Shias. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A person by the name of Rumailah narrates: ‘In the days of Hazrat Ali (a.s) I was severely ill. On Friday I recovered a bit. I thought to myself – how nice would it be if I have my bath today and recite namaz behind Ali (a.s). Hence I got up and after taking a bath, went to the mosque. While Ali (a.s) was delivering the Friday sermon, my condition again deteriorated. After namaz Ali (a.s) went to a place by the name of ‘Qasr’, I too accompanied him. He (a.s) said to me, ‘O Rumailah! Why are you restless?’ I narrated to him (a.s) about my illness and explained to him my condition. Then Imam (a.s) said, ‘O Rumailah! When a believer becomes ill then we too are affected by his illness. If someone becomes sorrowful and distressed then we too become sorrowful. If someone prays then we say ‘Aameen’ for his</div><div style="text-align: justify;">supplication. And when he becomes silent (i.e. he stops praying) then we pray for him.’Rumailah asked Imam (a.s) “My master! Are you referring about those believers who are staying in this place of ‘Qasr’? What about those who stay in the different corners of the earth?’ Imam (a.s) replied,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘O Rumailah! There is no believer – in the east or in the west – who is hidden from us’. </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Basaaer al-Darajaat; part 16, tradition 1) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Through this incident it becomes evident that our Imams (a.s) hold their Shias dearer than a father holds his son. Thus when Imams (a.s) love us so much, then the least that we can do is perform such actions that are a cause of happiness for them and refrain from those deeds which anger and upset them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">A signed letter (Tawqee) from Imam Mahdi (a.s.)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now let us pay attention to this tawqee (a ‘Tawqee’ is a letter signed by Imam (a.s) himself in the time of his occultation) through which we learn that Imam’s (a.s.) knowledge encompasses all our actions. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Every word of the blessed Tawqee addressed to Shaikh Mufeed(r.a) spells out this fact. Those people, who in the time of major occultation are serving the religion of Islam, are defending the laws and beliefs, are taking care of the weak and helpless Shias have been addressed by the one who is the cause of the existence of this Universe , Hazrat Wali-e-Asr (a.t.f.s.) – as “the brother with an upright character and a learned and intelligent friend”. This form of address itself is a proof that our Imam (a.t.f.s.) is aware of our deeds and our character. Imam (a.t.f.s.) (may our lives be sacrificed for him ) states,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“Even though we are residing away from the settlements of oppressors – as Allah has destined this in the best interest of the Shias – yet our knowledge encompasses all your information. Nothing is hidden from us. We are conscious of the problems and the degradation which all of you are enduring right now. The reason for all this is that you are indulging in all those (prohibited) things from which your elders used to abstain and you have abandoned the promise and the pledge that was taken from you as if you have never ever known this promise.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(These words of Imam (a.t.f.s.) reflect his remorse on our heedlessness, negligence and disgraceful actions. But the words that follow are an indication of his fatherly love and his compassion.) Imam (a.t.f.s.) continues</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“We are not negligent of your affairs and neither do we forget your remembrance. If it would have been so, then calamities and difficulties would have encircled you and the enemies would have annihilated you.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">At the end of this Tawqee, Imam (a.t.f.s.) continues, <b>“Then each one of you should perform such actions which will bring you close to our love and should abstain from those deeds which are a cause of our displeasure and anger. This is because our reappearance will occur unexpectedly and at that time your repentance will serve no purpose. Your remorse and your regret will not protect you from our chastisement.” </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Al-Ehtejaaj of Sheikh Tabarsi, vol. 2, p. 497, 498)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another Tawqee In another Tawqee to Janab Sheikh Mufeed (r.a), Imam (a.t.f.s.) declares, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“May Allah grant the ‘Taufeeq’ (grace) to our Shias for His obedience. If our Shias would have remained united and would have been steadfast in fulfilling their pledge, there would not have been any delay in our meeting with them. They would have been blessed with our meeting and our presence through their recognition and their truthfulness. But the thing which has delayed our reappearance and has distanced us from them is the news that we get about their deeds which we dislike and don’t expect from them.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Ibid., p. 499) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is one very important thing that is highlighted from the above discussion – the Imams (a.s.) (particularly the Imam (a.s.) of our time) are aware of our each and every movement. Nothing in this world is concealed from their divine eyes. In the supplication on Fridays related to Imam-e-Zamana (a.t.f.s.) we recite: “Peace be upon you, O the eyes of Allah among His creation!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the presence of an Emperor If a blind individual stands in the presence of a king then he will observe the same etiquette of honor and respect due to a king, which are applicable to the one who is actually seeing the king (even though the blind man is unable to see the king.) This is because the blind man perceives the presence of the king and realizes that he is standing before a king. He himself is unable to see the king, but he is convinced that the king is observing him.The situation is similar during the time of the major occultation. A believer is unable to see his Imam (a.t.f.s.) but he is certain that Imam (a.t.f.s) is observing him. Due to his conviction, he is always aware of the fact that he is standing in Imam’s (a.t.f.s.) presence. He considers Imam (a.t.f.s.) to be a witness to his each and every action. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In Dua-e-Nudbah we recite <b>“May I be sacrificed for you! You are that concealed one who is constantly present in all our gatherings!” </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">True faith and certainty demands that we always realize that we are in the presence of Imam (a.t.f.s.) and hence maintain the decorum of honor and respect. O Allah! For the sake of Your immaculate, infallible friends (a.s) and their sincere followers, grant us such upright faith and perfect certainty. Aameen!</div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-63234815383008133462012-07-12T06:17:00.003-07:002012-07-12T10:38:39.633-07:00Analysing the book Mikyalul Makarim By Shabbar Mehdi<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KSeLzYpuKBU/T_7DGYPBWUI/AAAAAAAAA7c/5j-28vO4LuA/s1600/Mikyalul-Makarim.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KSeLzYpuKBU/T_7DGYPBWUI/AAAAAAAAA7c/5j-28vO4LuA/s1600/Mikyalul-Makarim.png" /></a></div>May Allah have mercy on the great religious scholar <b>Ayatullah sayyid Muhammad taqi Ishfahani(r.a)</b> who has written a comprehensive book on subject of Marefat ( recognisation of Imam e zamana (as.) and the title of the book is Mikyalul Makarim and There are EIGHTY RESPONSBLITIES of shias with regard to Imam(a.s) during ghaibat (occultation).</div><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Analysing the Book Mikyalul MakarimFee Fawaaid ad-Duaa Lil Qaaim:</b></span><br />
<br />
Rebecca Masterton presents a weekly exclusive show on Ahlulbayt TV about the Awaited Imam Mehdi (atf) with respected guests joining us to enlighten us with stories and facts about the Imam of our time.<br />
<br />
This Episode she is joined by <b>Shabbar Mahdi</b><br />
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<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 480;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;"> <td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 221.25pt;" valign="top" width="295"><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Analysing Mikyalul Makarim Part-1</span></div></td> <td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 221.55pt;" valign="top" width="295"><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Analysing Mikyalul Makarim Part-2</span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 221.25pt;" valign="top" width="295"><div class="MsoNormal"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="214" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/n9y1YK5d71M" width="285"></iframe></div></td> <td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 221.55pt;" valign="top" width="295"><div class="MsoNormal"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="214" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/eG5zOzK5wxI" width="285"></iframe></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 480;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;"> <td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 221.25pt;" valign="top" width="295"><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Analysing Mikyalul Makarim Part-3</span></div></td> <td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 221.55pt;" valign="top" width="295"><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Analysing Mikyalul Makarim Part-4</span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 221.25pt;" valign="top" width="295"><div class="MsoNormal"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="214" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9Yna2kj4d8g" width="285"></iframe></div></td> <td style="padding: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; width: 221.55pt;" valign="top" width="295"><div class="MsoNormal"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="214" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/z5mwZ6CUT5s" width="285"></iframe></div></td> </tr>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Mikyalul Makarim Fee Fawaaid ad-Duaa Lil Qaaim</span><br />
(Perfection of morals among the benefits of praying for al-Qaim)<br />
<br />
By <b>Ayatullah Sayyid Muhammad Taqi Musawi Isfahani(r.a.)</b><br />
<br />
Translated by:<br />
<b>Sayyid Athar Husain S.H. Rizvi</b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Read Online:</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://university.etrat.net/file.php?file=%2F1%2FEteam%2FMikyal.pdf" target="_blank">Mikyalul Makarim Volume 1</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/51372397/Mikyalul-MakarimFee-Fawaaid-Ad-Duaa-Lil-Qaaim-Vol2" target="_blank"> Mikyalul Makarim Volume 2</a><br />
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-31052821737326787272012-07-08T07:21:00.000-07:002012-07-08T07:21:06.636-07:00Ramadan Al-Mubarak - Ramadan Al-Kareem<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8cE4ZCg6R3A/T_mMKmUEqjI/AAAAAAAAA7E/a_PwBdzuwhU/s1600/ramzaan.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8cE4ZCg6R3A/T_mMKmUEqjI/AAAAAAAAA7E/a_PwBdzuwhU/s1600/ramzaan.gif" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ramadan Kareem, ninth month of Islamic Lunar Calendar is very dear to Allah (SWT). It is the most august of all months, pure, generous and merciful. Do not let its nights go waste in slumber, its days in careless omission or loss of remembrance of Allah (SWT).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Du'a (prayer) in the month of Ramadan Karim:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The month of Ramadan Kareem is an opportunity given by the gracious Creator for His servants to come close to Him, seek forgiveness for their sins, and fulfillment of their needs. In the Glorious Qur'an, amidst an important discussion on the month of Ramadan Karim, the following ayat (verse), which apparently has no direct connection with Ramadan Kareem, is included: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">"And when my servants ask you about me, then surely I am near. I answer the prayer of the supplicant when he calls upon me, so respond to me, and believe in me, so that they may be led right." </span>(2:186)<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Commentators agree that this is the most poignant of all the verses on the Divine human connection. The whole verse is based on the singular first person pronoun, which is repeated seven (7) times. It is a confirmation of the close relationship between man and His creator, and an assurance that he will be listened to when he calls upon Him.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">That such a verse should be included among the ayats discussing the importance of Ramadan Kareem, and some of its rules (see 2:183-187), are an indication of the important role of Du'a in the month of Ramadan Kareem. Abstaining from fulfillment of physical desires stimulates an increase in spirituality, and creates an inclination for prayers and worship. Believers feel close to Allah (SWT), and Allah (SWT) reminds them that He too is close, and will answer their prayers. The nights of Ramadan Kareem are spent in prayers and supplications. Even those believers, who normally do not have much time for prayers, try to do so during this month. This is because of the emphasis on the sanctity of the month, the promise of multiplied rewards, as well as the assurance of a favorable response. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Says the Holy Prophet Muhammad (pbuh): <span style="font-size: large;">". . . do supplicate with your hands raised . . . as these are the best of times, during which the Almighty looks at His servants with mercy, answers if they supplicate, responds if they call, grants if they ask, and accepts if they plead . . ." </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Prophet's sermon welcoming the month of Ramadan Al-Mubarak).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The best thing a believer can pray for during this month is forgiveness for his past sins. Many of the Du'as special to the month of Ramadan Kareem plead for forgiveness of the huge burden of sins which man carries. Ramadan Al-Mubarak is a glorious chance given to him to have his sins erased, and gain a higher position in the eyes of Allah (SWT). So many people are forgiven in this month that it is only the unfortunates who are deprived. Says the Prophet in the same sermon: "Indeed, miserable is he who is deprived of Allah's forgiveness in this great month." Other things to pray for include fulfillment of needs, removal of afflictions, and success in the hereafter.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Glorious month of Ramadan Kareem: Fasting and Worship</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It was reserved for Islam to prescribe and perfect a formula for spiritual purification for every one of its followers, notwithstanding the state of society he may belong to, and which can be followed without interfering with his normal avocations a Muslim may be engaged in, it does not hinder him from obeying this divine commandment which is one of the five fundamental tenets of Islam.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Muslim fast means a complete abstinence from eating or drinking between daybreak and sunset. The sighting of the thin sickle of the new moon of Ramadan Kareem heralds for the Muslim the beginning of a month of glory and of spiritual elevation, when, Allah's command he voluntarily and of his own free will, denies himself, between daybreak and sunset the blessings of food and drink for a whole month and surrenders himself wholly to Allah (SWT), exercising at the same time complete control over his thoughts, speech and actions.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This month (Ramadan Kareem) means for the Muslims, the triumph of the spiritual and the pure in his nature over all the gross and carnal desires which are an inevitable component of our human structure. The proper observance of the fast is beautifully explained by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the following words: "One who, while fasting, does not guard his tongue from telling lies, does not refrain from doing bad deeds, is not respecting his fast and Allah does not approve of mere abstention from food."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"When you are fasting you should not speak ill of anybody, nor should you be boisterous and noisy. If anybody, speaks ill of you or tries to pick a quarrel with you, return him not, but say unto him that you are fasting."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ramadan Kareem, however, has another special significance for the Muslims, for it was in this month that the first revelation of the Glorious Qur'an was made to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This month, therefore, is dear to the heart of every Muslim. During this month the Muslim applies himself more assiduously to the reading of the Holy Book, which shall remain for all time as the standing miracle of Muhammad, the unlettered Prophet. (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Throughout this month is heard, in every Muslim home, during the day and night, the pleasant and beautiful cadences of Qur'anic recitation.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The fact that great spiritual benefit is derived from the reading of the Glorious Qur'an in this month can be seen in the following saying of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"A man gets the same reward by reading in this month one verse of the Glorious Qur'an as others do by reading the whole of the Glorious Qur'an in other months."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In this Holy month of Ramadan Karim it should therefore be the duty of every Muslim to read and try to understand the meaning of the Glorious Qur'an, and thereby gain an insight into the divine secrets enshrined therein. It brings peace and illumination to the mind, imparts purity to the soul and removes many a curtain hanging between man and God.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Only consistent reading can produce the tremendous amount of joy and pleasure one experience in reading the Glorious Qur'an.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ramadan Kareem is the month of fasting and intensive prayer, a month of sacrifice and divine worship. In this month a devout Muslim spends hours every night in prayer and meditation, realizing all the time the presence of Allah Who is all pervading. Along with the prayers, he fasts during the day for a whole month in the true sense of the word, i.e. not merely denying himself food and water, but also, as the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) explained, exercising strict control over his tongue, his eyes, his ears, his mind, his thoughts and his deeds and canalizing every activity of his towards and for the love of God. Living such a life is an immense spiritual peak and it also realizes the joy and happiness experienced by living a life which is in tune with the Infinite. In short, these joys and these pleasures can be earned by any Muslim who devotes himself to prayer and fasting in the manner taught by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Glorious Qur'an says </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find peace" </span>Sura 13 verse 28. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Peace of mind that passes understanding can only be attained by sincere and continuous remembrance of Allah.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When a man fasts and prays in this holy month of Ramadan Kareem as thought and practiced by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), he can truly say, as stated in the Glorious Qur'an, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Say, lo! My worship and my sacrifice and my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds" </span>Sura 6 verse 162, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">and when a good Muslim reaches this stage, he gets into divine circuits and he can exclaim along with the holy men of Islam as follows: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">"We take our colour from Allah and who is better than Allah at colouring. We are His worshippers" Sura </span>2 verse 138.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-82858617776573745712012-07-08T06:57:00.001-07:002012-07-08T07:04:02.385-07:00To Love Imam Mahdi (a.s.) with our heart<iframe width="610" height="458" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7tVB90R3j2o" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cuTtJ7G_DBI/T_mMH0P3MoI/AAAAAAAAA6c/SB811mayf64/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S-Love-Heart.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cuTtJ7G_DBI/T_mMH0P3MoI/AAAAAAAAA6c/SB811mayf64/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S-Love-Heart.gif" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">In the period of occultation (Gaibat) of Imam Mahdi (a.s.), we all Shiah’s have certain responsibilities and duties to fulfill. Many books have been written on this aspect. A book <b>‘Mikyalul Makarim’</b> enumerates 80 such responsibilities of Shiah’s during Occultation.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here we take a look at one of them, and others will be talked about in subsequent articles. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of this signs of our love for another person is that we tend to favour his (the one we love) desires, his needs and his pleasures over our own. Whatever we like for ourselves, we would also tend to like for him. Whatever we dislike for ourselves, we tend to dislike for him also. In addition, we remember him in his absence.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For example, if we are aware that cigarette smoking irritates our friend, whom we love, then we will surely make all efforts to avoid smoking in his presence. This would be a sign of our love for him. If we smoked deliberately in his presence, it would be a sign that we do not care about his feelings and that we give preference to our comfort over his.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We love Imame Asr (a.s.), but the expression of our love and affection should be unique. We are well aware that all our actions, whether good or bad are presented to him (a.s.) once every week, or as per some traditions, twice every week. We are aware that when he (a.s.) looks at our good actions, he smiles and is pleased with us. But when he notes our sins, he is grieved and cries for us. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now let us ask ourselves these questions – How conscious and sensitive are we to the tears of our Imam (a.s.)? Have we as Shiahs, been created to mourn over the difficulties of the Ahle Bayt (a.s.), or that Imam (a.s.) should mourn over our sins? These questions distress and shame us for surely we have no answer to them. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When we are aware that the Imam of the Time (a.s.) is saddened if we miss the recitation of Namaz e Subh on time, then do we remain asleep while the time for Namaz passes by? When our child cries out at night, we wake up in a flash and rush to his call. Is the love of our child more overpowering than our love for Imam (a.s.)? It is to constantly remind us to this duty that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) said, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">“The faith of any believer is not complete till the time, he prefers me (saw) over himself and my children (Ahle Bayt) over his own.” </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The following incident emphasis why we should love Imame Asr (a.s.) more than anything else. When the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) ascended to the heavens for Me’raj, he was shown the shining Noor of the Imams (a.s.). One of these Noor was in a state of bowing (Ruku). When the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) asked Allah about these Noor, he was told, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“O Mohammed! These are the Noor of your successors (Imams). And the Noor in the center, which is bowing is that of your last successor – The Qaem (a.s.) who will establish your Halal (permissible) as Halaal and your Haraam (forbidden) as Haraam. O Mohammed! You befriend him (a.s.) as surely I am a friend of the one who befriends him.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Kamaluddin, Vol.1; pg 200)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We are indeed fortunate to witness the time of the Last Imam (a.s.). That Imam (a.s.), love for whom has been ordered by none other than Allah Himself. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Learned scholars recommend a simple way to increase the love of Imame Asr (a.s.) in our hearts. We need to frequently remind ourselves and speak out to the Imam (a.s.) that we love him. Yes, it is that simple. Just say to Imame Asr (a.s.), “O Imam, O Sahebuz Zaman! I love you.” If we do this regularly, then surely at some point in time, our conscience will tell us that if you love Imame Zamana (a.s.), then do you consider his pleasure as your pleasure and his grief as your own? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Have you noticed that some times we imagine that we have a headache. We may be completely fine, but after a short period, we actually start feeling a pain in our head! This is a tried and tested method often used by psychiatrists to indicate the effect of what we have in our mind upon our body. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Surely, if we constantly remind ourselves about our love for Imame Zamana (a.s.), then our actions will follow suit.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://shia-world.com/AHLEBAIT/12IMAM/responsibility.htm">http://shia-world.com/AHLEBAIT/12IMAM/responsibility.htm</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-35339873441329638322012-07-08T06:34:00.008-07:002012-07-08T06:53:03.780-07:00End the loneliness of Imam Mahdi (ajf)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eCzfHGQ1OBE/T_mMH6S39BI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/6aUSXUGxY-o/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S-Loniless.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eCzfHGQ1OBE/T_mMH6S39BI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/6aUSXUGxY-o/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S-Loniless.gif" /></a></div>When that familiar time of Muharram comes around, many of us feel that connection once again. Our connection to Imam Hussain (as) is revived, we cry for him, we feel for him, we visit him, we talk to him. This connection is established with educated youth well.. The same youth that lacks a connection, if any, with the Imam of their time, of our time, Imam Muhammad Al-Mahdi (ajf).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It starts with the doubt about our Imam’s existence. Some people don’t really believe it, with the all too familiar questions we ask ourselves, can someone really live that long? Why occultation? Can he be Imam at 5? Some people think it is too idealistic, and that they are realists in not believing in a Messiah. And perhaps the most saddening question; was he really born? The fact is, he was, and the various narrations and explanations suffice to explain all these questions, for the eyes that wish to see. Even these though, aren’t enough. And for those who do believe the Imam is here with all their hearts, do you realise there is none Imam is more upset with than you? You, who knows he is among us, but carry on with your misdeeds; you delay him.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">If we believe in the Thaqalayn, that RasoolAllah (S) left for us two weighty things, the Quran and the Ahlulbayt that will never separate in this world, then that alone should convince us that Imam is here, and waiting. There has to be a proof of Allah on this Earth. In Nahjul Balagha, Imam Ali (as) is talking to Kumail about knowledge, and says the following;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“The earth is never without one who stands for Allah with proof, either apparent and popularly known or hidden in fear so that the proofs of Allah and his commandments may not be voided.”</b> –</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Clearer narrations than this are available though I wish not to turn this into an article proving his existence, but we must end our doubt. However, with all on the Earth and around it proving God’s existence, we still have many Atheists in our societies today. If all we have now is not enough to convince some to believe in God, then the same applies for the Imam, some just don’t want to see. It is not in the fault of the narrations, for there are many that prove his existence and are reliable. It is a fault within us. That level you reach, when you improve in your prayer, you do your obligatory actions, you care for the needy, you spend your Thursday nights in contemplation, you stay up at night reading Munajat Imam Ali (as), you pray Salatul Layl, etc etc, you feel the presence of Allah is always with you. You are no longer in the need for any proof of God, you feel it. The same applies when it comes to the belief in our Imam, we must work to purify ourselves, better ourselves, in order to come closer to him. We need to develop emotional feelings for him.. Dua Nudba. We don’t realise what we have here, in the time we live, the greatest opportunity is passing us by whilst we eat drink and indulge.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Are we really his followers? Speaking on behalf of myself, how can I be, when I can’t even read the Quran properly? Who am I fooling? If I ever had the potential to be there for the Imam, I cut myself off from ever reaching that through my lack of care and misdeeds. Knowing I am delaying the reappearance of someone who I call my beloved makes me feel that which I deserve to feel. I know whilst reading this, you are thinking of your faults too. There are 300 million Shia in this world, and not even 313 of us are worthy… How lonely must he feel, to have not a person by his side? He waits by himself whilst the weight of the world is literally on his shoulders, and he can’t come out to fix it because of the lack of loyalty from us. Imagine him in his mornings, what he thinks of. Imagine him in his nights, what is he praying for? What does he dream of? Imagine he knows about you, and is hoping you can be someone to stand with him, yet you let him down. Imagine him seeing the state of this world, frustrated. How with pity Fridays have passed so quiet and so calm. Under the same beautiful moon I gaze upon night after night, is the man the world is waiting for. You are that sense of loneliness that is always with me, the hidden who is always present. Master, where are you?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Think of all the oppressed people of the world, all the poor and hungry, the enslaved. The only difference between them and us is that we were born into different parts of the world. We ignore them. These people can be saved through our Imam, yet we ignore them and him. This is a heart breaking subject, but one that must be addressed. I know my words aren’t worth much; this is why I want to share a poem, and part of a lecture with you, so that you may understand what exactly it is that we have done, and are still doing, to our Imam..</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I hear a voice from Medina.. The voice says;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“Oh Ummah, I am your Prophet. My Mahdi is in abandonment, I am disappointed in all of you. I am disappointed. My Mahdi is heartbroken and upset. O Muslims, why do you break my beloved’s heart so?”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I hear a voice from Najaf. Listen carefully, the voice says;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> <b>“I am the Walli, the Lion of God, Ali. Mahdi is heartbroken. I am unhappy with all of you. Oh my Shia, why do you torture him so with your misdeeds? When I was upset I would cry into my well. My Mahdi doesn’t have a well. Where should my Mahdi cry to?”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another voice.. from Medina.. Compose yourselves. Whose voice is that? The voice says;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“I am Fatima, daughter of your Prophet. You know very well I’m not happy with your actions. My son, like me, is abandoned. Woe to you. O lovers, I love my son as he loves me. Allah won’t forgive those, who break his heart so. I’m a mother, he’s my son. I don’t have the strength to watch. My Mahdi is heartbroken.. I can no longer bare to see this..”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pay attention and listen carefully. I hear a voice from Baqi. The voice says;..</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“I am Hassan, master of the youth of heaven. Oh Muslims, I am amazed by you. A Shia should work hard, so that his Master isnt abandoned. You dont work for my Mahdi. This is more bitter than the poison that tore my liver to shreds. Dont stop doing dua for him. Maybe Allah will reveal a sign…”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pay attention and listen. I hear another voice. This one.. from Karbala. The voice says;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“I am Hussain, the lover and beloved of Allah. O Shia, what happened to you that you stopped remembering your love? My Mahdi is the one who will avenge mine & my mothers blood. His tears mix with my bloodied shirt & flow endlessly.. why do you leave him?”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And yet, I hear another voice from Karbala.. Respectfully hide your hands, out of our shame in front of the water bearer. The voice says;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“I am Abbas! Where is your honour O you! Why do you leave your master without a friend or helper?! O Shia, what happened to your loyalty?.. Your condition is lamentable…”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Quran says that Prophet Yaqub (as) cried for Prophet Yusuf (as), even though he knew where he was and that he was safe. He knew, and he still cried. For us, who don’t know where the Yusuf of Fatima (as) is, how should we cry? Surely, we need to cry more than Yaqub? Who knows the address of Mahdi (ajf), please tell us. Where is the son of Fatima? Agha! Where are you? Why do I see everyone but you? Cry for Mahdi’s sake, drop tears for him, he is alone, innocent. Cry so that your tears may become insurance for you in the afterlife, the Quran teaches us with Yaqub and Yusuf, crying for Imam is one of our duties.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam AlZaman says;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">“If you remember me, then I will remember you. If you pray for my reappearance, then I will pray for your wellbeing. If you think of me, then I will be thinking of you.”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Who is more ghareeb than Imam Hussain (as)? More ghareeb, more alone, more abandoned than Imam Hussain, Mahdi Al-Zahra. Hussain is the Master of Martyrs, he was killed innocently, but.. Hussain had Abal Fadel. Who is the Abbas of our time? Hussain had Ali Akbar. Who is the Ali Akbar of our time? Hussain had Kassem, Aun, Jaffar, who is the Kassem for Imam AlZaman? Who does our Imam have? Who? Who does he have behind him? Who can he rely on?.. Is he relying on me and you? Our Imam has been alive, and alone, for 1170 years.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do we even ask about our Imam? In the last 24 hours, how many times have you thought about Imam AlZaman? Master, where are you? What are you doing? Are you happy with me? Are you unhappy with me?.. Should the Imam really rely on me and you?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Those of you who say ‘Yabnal Hassan’, and believe in him, why do you continue to sin? Why have your eyes become so unclean? Why do you take away your Imams dignity with your actions? Imam Al-Zaman is heartbroken because of me and you. Me and you. Not because of the Sunnis, nor the Christians, nor the Jews, nor the Hindus. Me and you. Envisage the Imam; “You say Yabnal Hassan, yet you still sin? People sin, and I sit night and day and cry, and say Allah forgive them because of me, as they are the ones who cry for Hussain. The ones that wear black for him. The ones who cry for my beaten mother. For their tears, O Allah forgive them.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mahdi cries for us, so why do we not cry for Mahdi? One has the audacity to claim they are followers of him, yet don’t even wake up to pray two rakaat in the morning. One who goes to sleep without even having prayer on his mind, can he really call himself a Shia of Hujjatebnel Hassan? Our youth have become so concerned with this world, girls in their superficiality and make up, boys in their indulgence and extravagance, both in the opposite sex, those who partake in undignified acts, and know themselves as Shia, does this not break Imam Mahdi’s heart into pieces? Are we not stabbing him in the back with our actions?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Cry. Cry till the point that you have won over your Imam’s heart. Do something for him. Not even a dua do you say for him. Nothing. If you were to strip all your duas and wishes away and leave only those for and about Imam, how many would there be left? Have you taught your child dua Al Faraj? They know all the songs from TV, football players, movie stars, word for word, name for name, but not this dua. We have emptied our love for our Imam, we offer no loyalty.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam AlZaman is heartbroken, but not with those who stand up and say “Yabnal Hassan!” and act as his people. Those who, if they know they wont wake up, stay up the night and perform their prayer. “Imam Zaman, I leave my life in yours hands. Imam, can you put your holy hands on my chest, and wake me so that I may see your beauty?”.. Those people, who fall asleep with his love. Then, when they wake up in the morning, pray their prayer, read Ziyarat Ashura, read Dua AlFaraj. Research the book Mo’ood Nameh, which will show you the value of this Dua. The first 20-30 pages of this book are only about the rewards of Dua AlFaraj! As soon as you recite and raise your hands to say<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“Allahuma kun liwaliekal Hujjatibnel Hassan”, Imam also raises his hands, and says “O Allah, for my sake, give him what he wants. O Allah, he has remembered me, and I have remembered him.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When they leave their houses, the true believers call to Sahibul Zaman,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“O Imam please watch over me today. I don’t want to sin today, you hold my hand and stop me”.. If you give yourself to Imam AlZaman, he will hold your hand. Give him your hand.</b><br />
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<a href="http://lanternofthepath.com/2012/02/21/end-the-loneliness-of-imam-mahdi-ajf-by-hussain-makke/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-11399159103030780202012-07-05T05:22:00.000-07:002012-07-05T05:22:00.097-07:00Wiladat of Imam Mahdi (AS)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VFzSREYKJZg/T_WFznnaxWI/AAAAAAAAA58/7EZgbIFQD-4/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S-Wiladat.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VFzSREYKJZg/T_WFznnaxWI/AAAAAAAAA58/7EZgbIFQD-4/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S-Wiladat.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The highlight of the month of Shabaan – rather of the entire year - is the birth anniversary of the saviour of all of humanity. This noble personality is one whom the various faiths and traditions of the world are awaiting and expecting to arrive for one main purpose – to establish the kingdom and rule of Allah upon this Earth. Through his rule, all forms of tyranny, oppression, injustice and inequality will be removed. Whereas he may be known by various names and titles in various languages, we know him as Imam al-Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Born in the city of Samarrah in the year 255 A.H., his life was immediately in danger. Rather, even before his birth the ruling parties sought to prevent his coming into this world. The `Abbaside rulers knew well the ahaadith of the Prophet of the one who would come in the last days to remove all despotic governments and thus, they did all that they could to prevent his birth. However, they planned and Allah too plans and He is the best of planners and no matter how hard they tried to extinguish the Light of Allah, they were not able to!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We as the Shia and followers of this Imam have many responsibilities on our shoulders in regards to him – the foremost being that of having a Marifat of the Imam. The Prophet has told us that, “The person who dies and does not have a Marifat of the Imam of his time has died the death of those of the days of Ignorance (those who did not accept the message of the Prophet).” However, what does Marifat entail – is it not the same as having “Ilm” or knowledge of the Imam?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To sum this discussion up in one sentence “Ilm” and “Marifat” are two different things. The teachers of ‘Irfan tell us that “Ilm” or knowledge refers to the removal of our ignorance in regards to something through understanding the ‘essence’ of that thing. Thus, to have “Ilm” of the Imam would mean to know his physical being, creation and all other incidental features of the Imam – something which really has no benefit to us. However, to have “Marifat” of the Imam means to know his mission, how he will carry it out, what our responsibilities are and other such topics.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thus, as we gear up to celebrate his birth anniversary this week, let us try and gain maximum knowledge of what he expects from us and what we need to do to live up to the title of being a Shia or follower of Imam al-Mahdi.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.world-federation.org/Secretariat/Articles/Archive/Celebrating_Wiladat_12thImam.htm">http://www.world-federation.org/Secretariat/Articles/Archive/Celebrating_Wiladat_12thImam.htm</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-51211348761517057572012-07-05T05:18:00.000-07:002012-07-05T05:18:12.536-07:00Discussion of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) on the Arsh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9zlrTX4qYAc/T_WF0SjQUSI/AAAAAAAAA6A/VAfUsMQN0uU/s1600/imam-mahdi-Arsh.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9zlrTX4qYAc/T_WF0SjQUSI/AAAAAAAAA6A/VAfUsMQN0uU/s1600/imam-mahdi-Arsh.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Certain conclusions derived from historical events and incidents not only astonish the conscious-minded, the righteous and the knowledgeable, rather, these make them see rays of a firm divine plan or movement which makes man debase himself, his forehead in prostration in front of the Needless Creator, in confession of His Infinite Power and Authority.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It seems beyond intellect and rationale that on one side is the matter of human guidance and on the other is the contamination of the environment in the Arabian Peninsula after the martyrdom of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.). Conditions had become even more wretched when compared to the days of ignorance (Jahiliyya). On one hand, there were a handful of companions, trained by the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and on the other hand, there was the multitude of helpers (Ansaar) and the migrants (Muhajireen). That is why Ameerul Momeneen Ali (a.s.) had said, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘This caliphate is like a she-camel and I have left its reins to itself (i.e. allowed it to go wherever it wants).’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">At times one could hear the complaints of Janabe Fatema Zahra (s.a.) in Masjidun Nabawi on the usurpation of her father’s legacy (Fadak), and at other times, one could see her in the darkness of night, in the House of Grief (Baitul Huzn) lamenting over her father’s (s.a.w.a.) demise. Then again on occasions, one witnesses the successor and brother of Allah’s Prophet (s.a.w.a.) – Ali (a.s.), being dragged with a rope in his neck and then one could see his house being set aflame. Those in the forefront of this repression and tyranny were the ones who had lived their lives in the company of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.). Why such a dramatic change of attitude? This question itself raises many other related queries. For instance, how did the Muslims ignore the immaculate and brilliant traditions that are termed as Hadithe Qudsi (divine traditions)? These traditions that are attributed to Allah Himself, are the best means of guidance and appeal to man’s intellect. These traditions elaborate the irrefutable truthfulness of the Holy Quran and along with it, illumine the path for his deliverance. Even in these divine traditions (Ahadithe Qudsi) the successorship of Allah’s greatest Prophet (s.a.w.a.) has been clearly outlined and defined for the people. If only the people had referred to these traditions, the Muslim community would not have been afflicted with such devastating disputes and conflicts. If they had merely adhered to these holy words, they would have fulfilled the wishes of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and would have gained Allah’s proximity and satisfaction.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Alas! The refusal to submit to these brilliant traditions was one of greatest tragedies to distress Islam. They were revealed by Allah the Almighty to His Noble Prophet (s.a.w.a.), are explicit in their implication and leave no room for any refutation or misinterpretation.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The most significant and resilient belief of the Shias is the concept of Imamat. But today we see that the Islamic community in general has dealt with the topic of the Promised Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) with some injustice by not giving it the place it deserves in Islam. They have breached the trust vis-?-vis this belief, with the result that a large section of the Muslim population is either unaware of this belief or at least, are not well informed about it. Imam Mahdi’s (a.t.f.s.) birth, his holy existence, his glorious personality, his leadership, his successorship of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), his protection of Islam and the Majestic Quran – all these facets are never mentioned to the Muslims. It is a miracle that despite this wide-scale unawareness, the brilliant personality of Imam (a.t.f.s.) glows in the darkness of ignorance. It is among the miracles of Allah the Almighty that He has kept His last proof concealed, yet has made it impossible for men of understanding and intellect to deny his existence.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We shall quote Hadithe Qudsi so that those who believe in Tauheed (Unity of Allah), Prophethood and Imamat understand that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) left no stone unturned in introducing his last successor to the Muslims.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) frequently explained to the Arabs and reminded them about Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). In addition to the Quran, he (s.a.w.a.) showed them proofs from other divine scriptures to establish Imam’s (a.t.f.s.) advent. However, the Arabs were indeed wretched that after listening to all the traditions and seeing all the proofs, they ignored the advent of Imam (a.t.f.s.) and exchanged their hereafter for this world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Noble Quran in the very first verse of Surae Asraa, declares:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“Glory be to Him Who made His servant to go on a night from the Sacred Mosque to the remote mosque of which We have blessed the precincts so that We may show to him some of Our signs.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is apparent that after the incident of ascension (Me’raj), the companions of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) would have asked him about his experience in minute details. And it is also apparent that on every occasion, the Prophet (s.a.w.a) would have described the incident involving his successors. It is indeed miraculous how such prophetic traditions found their way in books of traditions after the total ban on narration of prophetic traditions during the reign of the first three caliphs.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For instance Alqamah b. Qais narrates: ‘Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.) recited the sermon of Loloah in front of us.. One person by the name of Aamir b. Kathir who was seated in the gathering rose and asked Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.), ‘Inform me about the evil leaders of the disbelievers. Then inform me about the righteous leaders of the truthful ones who will succeed you in Imamat.’</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.) replied, <b>‘This is the position which the Prophet (s.a.w.a) conferred on me. He (s.a.w.a) informed me that there would be twelve pure and immaculate personalities who would occupy this position (of Imamat). Of these, nine would be from the lineage of Imam Husain (a.s.). The Prophet (s.a.w.a) informed me:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">‘When I was taken around the heavens, I happened to glance at the foot of Arsh (Throne). I observed that it was engraved on the foot of the Throne -</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘There is no god other than Allah. Mohammad is the prophet of Allah. I have supported him through Ali.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then I witnessed twelve lights. I asked Allah:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘O my Lord, what are these lights?’ It was told to him (s.a.w.s), ‘O Mohammad these are the lights of the Imams from your progeny.</b>’</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then Ameerul Momeneen (a.s.) narrates,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“I asked the Prophet (s.a.w.s), ‘Can you inform me about their names?’ The Prophet (s.a.w.a) revealed, ‘O Ali, you will succeed me. You alone shall pay my debts and fulfill my vows. (Then the Prophet (s.a.w.a) revealed the names of each and every successor as till Imam Ali Naqi (a.s.)). Then your son Hasan Askari (a.s.) will succeed Ali Naqi (a.s.) and will be renowned with the title of ‘Ameen’. Hasan Askari (a.s.) will be succeeded by his son Qaem (a.s.) who will have the same name as I have and will resemble me. He will fill the earth with peace and equity, as it would be fraught with oppression and inequity.’ </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Kifaayatul Asar, p. 213-219, The same tradition can also be found in Behaarul Anwaar) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On the same lines, Imam Sadiq (a.s.) also narrates from his forefathers that when the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) ascended to the heavens for Me’raj, he (s.a.w.a) informed,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘My Lord ordered me to raise my head. When I did so, I saw the radiant light of Ali (a.s.), Fatema (a.s.), Hasan (a.s.), Husain (a.s.), Ali b. Husain (a.s.), Muhammed b. Ali (a.s.), Jafar b. Muhammed (a.s.), Moosa b. Jafar (a.s.), Ali b. Moosa (a.s.), Muhammed b. Ali (a.s.), Ali b. Muhammed (a.s.), Hasan b. Ali (a.s.) and Muhammed b. Hasan – al-Qaem (a.s.). I witnessed that the name of the last Imam was like a brilliant, shining star among all other Imams (a.s.).’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a) asked Allah,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘Whose names are these?’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Allah, the High, replied,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘These are the names of the caliphs of Islam. They are the ones who will make permissible what I have made permissible and will prohibit what I have made forbidden.’</b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Kamaaluddin, vol.1, p. 252, Ch. 23, tradition 2) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam Ali Reza (a.s.) narrates from his ancestors (a.s.) that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) related:</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When I ascended the heavens (Me’raj) I asked, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘O my Lord, who are my successors?’ I heard a voice exclaim – Their names are inscribed on the foot of the Throne. When I glanced towards the Throne, I witnessed twelve rays of resplendent light. Each light was radiating in a ray of green light. The names of the twelve Imams (a.s.) were engraved on the Throne. That the last Imam would be the Mahdi of my nation was also mentioned.’ </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Kamaaluddin, vol.1, p. 254, Ch. 23, tradition 4; Yanaabiul Mawaddah, p. 486) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Umme Salma (a.r.) relates that the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) informed that,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘When I ascended the heavens I asked, O Allah, what is this light that I see? Who does it belong to? Allah replied, O Muhammed, this is the light of Ali (a.s.) and Fatema (s.a.), and the other light is that of Hasan (a.s.) and Husain (a.s.). That light that you see is of the Caliphs of your nation who will be from the progeny of Husain (a.s.). The light at the end is of the ‘Hujjat’ who will establish justice and equity on the earth.’ </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Kifaayatul Asar, p. 185-186; Behaarul Anwaar, vol. 36, p. 348)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Note: In the night of Ascension the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) has mentioned the name of his last successor explicitly on several occasions. Over here we have narrated only a few instances for our readers for the sake of brevity, otherwise there is no scarcity of traditions highlighting the name of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) as Allah’s final Hujjat on the earth.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As explained above, the matter of the Prophet’s (s.a.w.a.) successorship has been established beyond doubt in the night of Ascension. Similarly there are many divine traditions (Ahadith-e-Qudsi) like Hadith-e-Lauh that announce the successors of the Prophet (s.a.w.a.), ending with the name of Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.). Such traditions underline the fact that these leaders alone would guide the Muslims after the Prophet (s.a.w.a.).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Jaabir b. Abdullah Ansari (r.a.) recounts, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘I visited the house of Janabe Fatema Zahra (s.a.) on the birth of Imam Husain (a.s.). At her house, I happened to catch a glimpse of a tablet (Lauh) that was green like emerald. When I glanced upon its contents, I saw that the writing was white as if written in light. When I asked Janabe Fatema Zahra (s.a.) about the tablet, she remarked: O Jaabir, my Lord has presented this tablet to me. It has in it the names of my father (s.a.w.a.), my husband and both my sons (a.s.) It also has the names of my sons, who will succeed the Prophet (s.a.w.a.). Janabe Zahra (s.a.) offered the green tablet to Jaabir (r.a.) who took it from her and rubbed it against his face (for blessing).’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Many years later, Jaabir (r.a.) related this incident to Imam Mohammad Baaqir (a.s.). Imam (a.s.) told Jaabir (a.s.), </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘Show me your copy of the tablet.’ Jaabir (r.a.) brought a parchment made of thin deerskin. He said, ‘I take Allah the Almighty as a witness that I have recorded exactly what I saw on the green tablet with Janabe Fatima Zahra (s.a.).’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">While Hadith-e-Lauh mentions the name and characteristics of every Imam (a.s.), we have highlighted below the relevant statements pertaining to Imam (a.t.f.s.).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">‘…after that I shall raise Hasan Askari (a.s.) from your (Imam Ali Naqi (a.s.)) progeny. He shall be the treasurer of My knowledge. After him, I shall bring forth his son M H M D (Arabic), who will be mercy for the world. He shall take this world to its perfection. He shall have with him the inspiring awe of Moosa (a.s.), the command of Esa (a.s.) and the patience of Ayyub (a.s.). He will be the leader of My friends and slaves. His occultation will be an adversity upon My friends. Their heads will be sent as gifts, just like the heads of Turks and Dailimites are presented as gifts (by the apostates of that time). They will be killed, burnt and will live in perpetual fear. The earth will be coloured with the blood of these innocent ones and this will raise the shrieks and complaints of their women. Surely they are My friends and beloved ones. For their sake I will rectify every dispute raging on the earth (through My last Proof). I will make steadfast, their trembling feet. I will ward off their calamities and adversities. May Allah have mercy upon them, they are the rightly guided ones.’ </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Jaameul Akhbaar, Al-Jawaaherus Saneeyyah, Irshadul Quloob) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is another narration reported by Abu Mufazzal in five different versions on the authority of Aiyesha. She narrates, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘There was a room in my house which had a stone. Whenever the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) wished to converse with Jibrail (a.s.), he (s.a.w.a.) used to sit on that stone. Once the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was engaged in a conversation with Jibrail (a.s.). Earlier he (s.a.w.a.) had left instructions that no one was supposed to disturb him (s.a.w.a.) in the room. After a while Husain b. Ali (a.s.) entered the house and went directly to his respected grandfather (s.a.w.a.). I was engaged in some work and did not see Husain (a.s.) enter, so I could not stop him. When Jibrail (a.s.) saw Husain (a.s.), he asked the Prophet (s.a.w.a.), ‘Who is he?’ The Prophet (s.a.w.a.) replied, ‘He is my son Husain.’ Then Jibrail (a.s.) informed the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) about Imam Husain’s (a.s.) martyrdom and even showed him (s.a.w.a.) the land of Karbala where Imam (a.s.) would be martyred. Jibrail (a.s.) gave the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) some earth from the land of Karbala. On hearing about the heart-rending incident of Karbala, the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) wept excessively. Jibrail (a.s.) consoled the Prophet (s.a.w.a.) thus, ‘Don’t cry. Don’t grieve. The ninth son from Husain’s (a.s.) progeny will be the Qaem, who will avenge his martyrdom. He (Qaem) will be the son of Hasan Askari (a.s.). Through him, Allah will manifest His good word, truthful tongue and the evident truth. (And Allah declared – he will be My Proof over My creatures.) </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Kifaayatul Asar, Behaarul Anwaar, Abqareeyul Hesaan) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is recorded in Beharul Anwar, Iqbalul A’maal, Abqareeyul Hesaan, that Sayyid b. Tawoos (r.a.) in a detailed explanation, reports from Sahifa-e-Ibrahim: Ibrahim (a.s.) glanced at the last Prophet (s.a.w.a.) and saw Hazrat Ali (a.s.) next to him. Similarly Ibrahim (a.s.) witnessed all the fourteen infallibles and was introduced to them by Allah. Finally Allah introduced Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) thus:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">‘He is My Promised One, through whom My Mercy shall reach every dwelling-place, and through him, I shall adorn My virtuous servants. I shall do this at a time when the despair and hopelessness of My servants reaches its peak, and when they begin to feel that I will no longer heed their supplications.’</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘Then when you remember Mohammad and invoke blessings upon him, also remember My successors and invoke blessings upon them.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Abdullah b. Sulaiman, a great scholar with authority over divine scriptures, narrates: (we have only mentioned the portion relevant to Imam Mahdi (a.t.f.s.))</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hazrat Esa (a.s.) asked,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘O Allah what is ‘Tooba’?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A voice replied, <b>‘It’s a tree that encompasses the entire Paradise. I Myself have nourished it and have watered it with the stream of Tasneem. This is the stream, coolness of which is Camphor, and as delicious as dry ginger. If one drinks one glass from it, he shall never experience thirst again.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hazrat Esa (a.s.) requested Allah,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>‘O My Lord, give me some water from this stream.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Allah the Almighty replied, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">‘A drink from this stream is prohibited for mortals, until My beloved Prophet (s.a.w.a.) drinks from it first. O Esa, I shall raise you to the heavens and you will reside here until the last age, when I will make you descend on the earth once again, so that you may see the exalted and glorious personality of this nation, and contend with Dajjal along with him. I will make you descend on the earth when it is time for prayers (namaz) and you will make way for him to lead the prayers. Indeed this is the nation on which I have bestowed My mercy.’ </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Kamaaluddin, vol1, p. 261, tradition 18, Amaali of Sheikh Saduq (r.a.)) </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> In addition to the traditions mentioned above, it is also necessary for us to refer to the tradition of the covenant. Imam Mohammad Baqir (a.s.) narrates,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>’Allah, the High, took the covenant from the Prophets (a.s.) – ‘Am I not your Lord? Is Mohammad (s.a.w.a.) not My Prophet? Is Ali (a.s.) not the commander of the faithful?’ All the prophets (a.s.) testified to the covenant. This covenant proves the successorship of the Imams (a.s.) after the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.).</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After this, Allah took the covenant from the Ulul Azm Prophets (a.s.):</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>’I am your Lord. Mohammad is My prophet. Ali (a.s.) is the commander of the faithful. And after him, My successors shall be the obedient ones, who will be the manifestation of My knowledge. And the Mahdi (a.t.f.s.) is the one with whose strength and might, I shall reform My religion. Through him I shall manifest the beauty of My Essence. Through him, I shall avenge My enemies, and make My worship prevail across the corners of the world, so that only My reign is supreme. And all this will definitely happen, regardless of whether the people are satisfied with it or are unsatisfied.’</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.almuntazar.com/2000/04/01/discussion-of-imam-mahdi-atfs-on-the-arsh/">http://www.almuntazar.com/2000/04/01/discussion-of-imam-mahdi-atfs-on-the-arsh/</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-41354117814519737642012-06-30T11:07:00.001-07:002012-06-30T11:08:29.480-07:00Shabaan Al-Moazzam<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Etd1RgHeFq0/T-8xg8JH6pI/AAAAAAAAA5E/5TUxccYrZN8/s1600/Shaban.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Etd1RgHeFq0/T-8xg8JH6pI/AAAAAAAAA5E/5TUxccYrZN8/s1600/Shaban.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After Rajab al-Murajab, Shaban al-Moazzam is the second month of Ibadah (worship) in order to make preparations for the grand and majestic month of Ramadhan al-Mubarak - the month of fasting and forgiveness.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Shaban al-Moazzam is a month of high excellence and is dedicated to the Leader of the Prophets, Muhammad (saw). He used to keep fasts during this month and join it with the month of Ramadhan al-Mubarak. He used to say, <b>"Sha'ban is a month dedicated to me. Whoever keeps one fast during my month will definitely go to heaven".</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It has been reported from Imam Ja'far Sadiq (as) that on the commencement of this month, Imam Zainul Abideen (as) would gather his companions and address them, <b>"O my companions, do you know which month this is? It is the month of Sha'ban about which Prophet Muhammad (saw) used to say that it is dedicated to him. So keep fasts during this month in the love of your Holy Prophet (saw) and to attain closeness to your Creator. By Allah (SWT) in whose hands is my soul, I have heard from my father, Hussain ibn Ali (as), that he had heard from Commander of Faithful, Imam Ali (as), that whoever keeps fast during the month of Sha'ban in the love of Prophet Muhammad (saw) and to attain closeness to Allah (SWT) will become a friend to Allah (SWT) and on the Day of Judgement will be close to Allah (SWT) by His grace and Paradise will be assured to him."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is the month of asking for forgiveness of sins, giving alms, charity and fasting. Prophet Muhammad (saw) used to observe fasts during the whole month. Imam Zainul Abideen (as) has said: <b>"Whosoever is in love with Prophet Muhammad (saw), wishes to seek nearness to Allah (SWT) and receive His bounties, favours and rewards in this world and in the hereafter, must connect Shaban with Ramadhan in the matter of fasting and special prayers".</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is also reported from Prophet Muhammad (saw), <b>"Whosoever observes nine fasts in the whole month of Shaban should not fear the interrogation of Munkar and Nakeer. Whosoever observes twelve fasts in the month of Shaban, 70,000 angels will descend over his/her grave on the first night of his burial, the night of Wahshah, to remove his/her fear and loneliness".</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Keeping fast on Thursdays of the month of Shaban also carried great significance. It has been reported that the heavens are decorated each Thursday in the month of Sha'ban and the angles pray to Allah (SWT) to forgive all those who fast on that day and their prayers are accepted. It is stated in the reports of the narrations of Prophet Muhammad (saw) that whoever fasts on Mondays and Thursdays of this month, Allah (SWT) will fulfill twenty of his worldly wishes and twenty of his wishes of the Hereafter.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is recommended to give alms in this month even if it is as small as a half date. Almsgiving in this month brings about rescue from Hellfire. In this respect, it has been narrated that when Imam Ja'far Sadiq (as) was asked about the merits of observing fasting in Rajab al-Murajab, he answered, <b>"Why do you not ask about the merits of observing fasting in Sha'ban." "What is then the reward of him who observes fasting on one day in Sha'ban, Son of the Messenger of Allah?" asked the narrator. Imam Ja'far Sadiq (as) answered, "The reward will be Paradise. I swear it by Allah (SWT)." The narrator then asked again, "What are the best deeds that should be done in the month of Sha'ban." Imam Ja'far Sadiq (as) answered, "Almsgiving and seeking forgiveness are the best deeds in Shaban al-Moazzam. Verily, if anyone of you gives alms in Sha'ban, Almighty Allah (SWT) will breed those alms in the very same way as you breed your small camels. Hence, these alms will be as huge as Mount Uhud on the day of Resurrection."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recommended Fasts for the Islamic Lunar month of Sha'ban:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1st, 2nd and 3rd of Shaaban. 1st Thursday, Mid-Wednesday and last Thursday of Shaaban. 13th, 14th and 15th of Shaaban.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Any Thursday, Friday and Saturday of Shaaban. The last three days of Shaaban to connect with the Holy month of Ramadhan.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Other Aamal for the Islamic Lunar month of Shaban al-Moazzam:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite everyday 70 times: Astaghfirullaha wa as-aluhut Tawbah (I seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT) and beseech Him repentant).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite everyday 70 times: Astaghfirullahal Ladhee Laa ilaaha illa Huwar-Rahmanur-Raheemul-Hayyul-Qayyoomu wa Atoobu ilaihi (I seek forgiveness of Allah who is "There is no god save He", the Beneficent, the Merciful, the Ever-living, the Eternal and I turn repentant to Him).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Give as much Sadaqah (alms) as possible.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Recite Salawaat as many times as possible on Prophet Muhammad (saw).</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite 1000 times the following Dhikr within the month i.e. divide it throughout the month of Shaaban:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Laa ilaaha illallahu walaa Na'budu illa iyyaahu Mukhliseena Lahud-deen walau karihal-mushrikoon (There is no god save Allah, we do not worship save Him, making religion pure for Him only, however much the disbelievers be averse).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Prophet Muhammad (saw) had said that during the night of 15th Shaaban the Almighty Allah (SWT) takes decisions in the matters of sustenance, life and death and welfare of the people.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next to the "Night of Qadr" the night of 15th Shaban, Lailatul Barat is the most auspicious night (also known as Shab-e-Barat or Night of Baraat). According to Imam Muhammad bin Ali Al-Baqir (as) and Imam Ja'far bin Muhammad As Sadiq (as), the Almighty Allah (SWT) has promised to fulfill every legitimate desire put forward to Him tonight.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Night of Bara'ah or Lailatul Barat is a night in which special blessings are directed towards the Muslims as mentioned earlier. Therefore, this night should be spent in total submission to Almighty Allah (SWT), and one should refrain from all those activities, which may displease Allah (SWT).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In order to observe the Night of Bara'ah or Shab-e-Barat, one should remain awakened in this night as much as he can. If someone has better opportunities, he should spend the whole night in worship and prayer. However, if one cannot do so for one reason or another, he can select a considerable portion of the night, preferably of the second half of it for this purpose.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Special Prayers and Aamal for the night of 15th Shaban or Shab-e-Barat:</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do Ghusl (ablution) with the thought of washing away sins and as if it's your last Ghusl</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Keep awake for the full night in prayer as it has many rewards</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Astaghfirullah Tasbih with attention / Dua-e-Tawba (Repentance)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Surah Yaseen</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite Ziyarat of Imam Hussain (A.S.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite Dua-e-Kumayl</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite Dua-e-Nudbah</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Dua-e-Imam al Asr (A.S.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite Tasbih: Subhan Allah (Glory be to Allah) ------------------------- 100 times</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite Tasbih: Alhamdulillah (Praise belongs to Allah) ------------------- 100 times</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite Tasbih: Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest) ----------------------- 100 times</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Recite Tasbih: Laa Ilaha illAllah (There is no lord worthy of worship except Allah) --- 100 times</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.ezsoftech.com/islamic/08.asp">http://www.ezsoftech.com/islamic/08.asp</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-27996303418811711722012-06-30T10:17:00.001-07:002012-08-20T04:09:24.131-07:0015 SHABAAN<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WEHBcP-JA9Y/T-8xgGnfJaI/AAAAAAAAA44/DNumbca4DXA/s1600/Birth-of-imam-Mahdi-A.S.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WEHBcP-JA9Y/T-8xgGnfJaI/AAAAAAAAA44/DNumbca4DXA/s1600/Birth-of-imam-Mahdi-A.S.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Holy Prophet (sa.) had said <b>that during the night of 15th Shaba'an the Almighty takes decisions in the matters of sustenance, life and death and welfare of the people.</b> Next to the “Night of Qadr” the night of 15th Sha’baan is the most auspicious night (also known as “night of Baraat”). According to the Imams Muhammad bin Ali Al Baqir (as.) and Jaa’far bin Muhammad As Sadiq (as.) Allah swt has promised to fulfill every legitimate desire put forward to Him tonight. During this night Allah (swt) bestows on HIS people from HIS bounty & forgives them out of HIS grace & generosity .Of the blessings of this night is that ,at the dawn of this night ,was born the Leader of the Time Imam Mehdi (atfs) in Samarra -Iraq in the yr 255 AH .</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ahadith in the book Iqbalul A‘mal <b>"Therefore, stay awake this night in prayer and worship and encourage your Ummah to also keep awake this night in order to get closer to Allah </b>(Glorified and Exalted is He) through their actions since this is a noble night. This is a night in which not a single person supplicates to Allah except that his prayers are accepted. Nobody asks for a single thing on this night except that it will be given to him. No one asks Allah for forgiveness except that his sins are wiped out. No one turns in repentance to Allah except that He accepts their repentance. Whoever is deprived of the goodness of this night has definitely been deprived of something great."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Almighty Allah has chosen this night for the Ahl al-Bayt, in the same way as He has chosen the Qadr Night for our Prophet—peace be upon him and his Family.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The first thing that that Salik (the Wayfarer on the path towards Allah, Glorified and Exalted is He) must perform on this night is that he must remove the material pleasures and enjoyments of this world from in front of his eyes (and from his heart) and in order to make the most of this special night and ensure that all of his actions are performed properly, he must think to himself that tonight is his last night on this Earth (meaning that tomorrow he shall die) and thus, he will no longer have the opportunity to perform any more good deeds and that tomorrow the Day of Judgment will take place.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Aamal for Night of Fifteenth Shaban</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is advisable to stay awake during this full night in prayer as it has many rewards Ahadith has confirmed that as for one who spends this whole night with acts of worship, his heart will not die when other hearts die.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1) Recite 100 times : </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">سُبْحَانَ اللّهِ وَالْحَمْدُ لِلّهِ وَلا إلهَ إلاَّ اللّهوَاللّهُ وَاللّهُ أَكْبَرُ، ُ</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Subh'aanallah Walh'amdu Lillah Wa-Laa Ilaaha Illallah Ho Wal Allahu Akbar </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2) Take Ghusl (Bath) with the thought of washing away sins & as if its your last Ghusl.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">3) Recite 100 times 'Astaghfirullah ' with attention to seeking forgiveness.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">4) Recite Ziarat of Imam Husayn(as) & Special Ziarat of Imam Husayn(as) for 15 Shaban as all the Prophets & Angels visit the Imam on this night.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As a short salutation ,one may go to the terrace/elevated place, look left, right & towards the sky & recite :-</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">السَّلامُ عَلَيْكَ يَا أَبَا عَبْدِ اللّه السَّلامُ عَلَيْكَ وَرَحْمَةُ اللّه وَبَرَكَاتُهُ </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Peace be upon you; O Aba-`Abdullah! Peace and Allah’s mercy and blessings be upon you. Assalamu Alalika Ya Aba Abdillah Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah e wabarakatoh </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">5) Recite Namaz /Salaat of Jafar-e-Tayyar</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">6) Recite Dua Kumayl for Seeking forgiveness. In Hadith, it is mentioned that Kumayl ibn Ziyad said, "I was sitting with my master Amir al-Mominin ‘Ali ibn Abu Talib (peace be upon him) in Masjid Kufa and a group of companions were also sitting with him. One of them asked him what the meaning of the verse 'Whereupon every wise command is made clear.' (Surah ad-Dukhan, Verse 4) The Imam (peace be upon him) replied, The meaning of this is the night of the 15th of Sha‘ban. I swear by the One who holds the life of ‘Ali in His hands there is not a single servant of Allah except that all the good and bad that will reach him in this year is divided up and handed out on the 15th of Sha‘ban and this good and bad will continue from the 15th of Sha‘ban until the next year on the same night. The servant who stays up this night and recites the Du‘a of Khidr will have his supplications answered." This dua taught to Kumayl ibn Ziad is now known popularly as Dua e Kumayl.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">7) One must seek closeness to Imam al-Mehdi (may Allah hasten his return) the Hujjah of our Time; Wali al-‘Amr; the Greatest Secret (of Allah); the possessor of the divine Occultation and inviter to the message of the Prophet; the Successor of all Prophets and the Successor of all Successors of the Prophets; the physical manifestation of the Justice of Allah; the Flag of Guidance; the one who will destroy all corruption and oppression and those who oppose the truth; the destroyer of the enemies of Allah - the misguided and the disbelievers; the one who will purify the Earth of deviation and worship of the self; the greatest sign of Allah; the one who acts as the connection between the heavens and the earth; our Imam, Master and Qaim, al-Mahdi - may my soul and the souls of all of those in the universe be sacrificed for him.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">8) On this night, one should also be busy in Ziyarat, Munajat and asking our desires and complaining of our separation from our awaited Imam. One may write an Ariza(Letter)to Imam as well .Our supplications and Salat should always be performed with the thought in the back of our minds of the distance from our leader however we should also keep in mind and be thankful to Allah swt that we are blessed with such a guide. Recite the duas relating to the Imam (atfs) Dua Nudba , Ziarat e Imam-Isteghasa & Ziarat Aale Yasin of the Ahlulbayt(as).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>More:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.duas.org/15shabanamal.htm">http://www.duas.org/15shabanamal.htm</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-90547133697598693292012-06-30T10:06:00.003-07:002012-06-30T10:19:35.132-07:00PERFECTION OF FAITH<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1WnOjLTrSf4/T-8xfW1Ft3I/AAAAAAAAA40/dD6UN8tdas0/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1WnOjLTrSf4/T-8xfW1Ft3I/AAAAAAAAA40/dD6UN8tdas0/s1600/Imam-Mahdi-A.S.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since praying for an early reappearance of our master, the Master of the Time (aj) is verbal expression of love to Amirul Momineen (a) it will be an impetus to perfection of faith. In a number of traditional reports, it is mentioned that one who loves His Eminence by the tongue, one-third of his faith is complete. This tradition is mentioned in Tafseer al-Burhan.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In addition to this is a traditional report mentioned in the ninth volume of Biharul Anwar from His Eminence, Abul Hasan ar-Reza (a) from his forefathers, from his venerable great-grandfather Ali (a) that he said:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>My brother, the Messenger of Allah (s) said to me: “One who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that He should look at and not ignore him, he should have Wilayat of Ali. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that He should be pleased with him, he should love his son, Hasan. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that there is no fear on him, he should be among the followers of Husain. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a condition that He has forgiven all his sins, he should be a follower of Ali Ibnal Husain. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime with illuminated eyes, he should be a follower of Muhammad bin Ali al-Baqir. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that his scroll of deeds be given to him in his right hand, he should be a follower of Ja’far bin Muhammad bin as-Sadiq. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that he is purified and clean, he should be a follower of Moosa Kazim. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in a happy and joyful mood, he should be a follower of Moosa ar-Reza. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that his grades be elevated and that his sins be replaced with good deeds, he should be a follower of Muhammad Jawad. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that his accounting is easy, he should be a follower of Ali Hadi. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that he is from the successful ones, he should be a follower of Hasan Askari. And one who wants to meet Allah, the Mighty and Sublime in such a way that his faith is complete and his Islam is good, he should have the Wilayat of Hujjat, the Master of the Time, the awaited one. They are lamps in darkness, the Imams of guidance and signs of piety. Allah guarantees Paradise to one who loves them and has their Wilayat.”[1]</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I say: The point of evidence in this tradition is that the Wilayat of all the Imams must be expressed by the tongue as well as in actions, which are the most liked deeds. Because faith in the Wilayat of all of them is obligatory. And expression of devotion to them has special effects mentioned in this tradition. Without any doubt, Dua for our master, the Master of the Time (aj) and supplicating for his early reappearance from Allah is an expression of love to him. The love which is originally hidden in the hearts. Thus this effect is related to it. And from the aspect that this effect is present in having love with regard to our master, Hazrat Hujjat (a), it is that faith cannot be complete without the recognition of all the True Imams (a). And since the last part is the cause of completion, then faith cannot be complete except through the Wilayat and love for the seal of the Imams, the one who will remove the sorrow of this Ummah. May the Almighty Allah hasten his reappearance.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">[1] Surah Aale Imran 3:103</div><div style="text-align: justify;">[2] Ghayat al-Maraam Pg. 242</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><a href="http://www.maaref-foundation.com/english/library/pro_ahl/imam12_mahdi/mikyal_al-makarim/22.htm#78._Perfection_of_Faith" target="_blank"><em style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Mikyal</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> al-</span><em style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Makarim</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> fee fawaaid ad-duaa lil Qaaim</span></a></b> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ayatullah Sayyid Muhammad Taqi Musawi Isfahani</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Translated by: Sayyid Athar Husain S.H. Rizvi</div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-7059033397649581622012-02-24T04:39:00.000-08:002012-02-24T04:39:12.755-08:00Striving for Perfection:<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-59kYTpCSCUw/T0eEuRpjdxI/AAAAAAAAAwU/aivmYf2UJ9A/s1600/Strving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-59kYTpCSCUw/T0eEuRpjdxI/AAAAAAAAAwU/aivmYf2UJ9A/s1600/Strving.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Imam Ali (peace be upon him) said, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"There is no compensation for the Hereafter, and this life is not a worthy price for the self." (Ghurar al-Hikam)</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yet often we find ourselves selling our "self" short. As Muslims living in the Western world where not everything is Halal (whether it be food, entertainment, environment or otherwise), we tend to do this quite easily and readily.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Islam has laid great emphasis on the constant battle we encounter with our nafs (soul). In fact, we are taught that this is mankind's biggest battle. It is therefore of utmost importance that we make decisions in life that will aid us in this struggle, ones that will allow us to conquer our worldly desires and hence conquer our self.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Today we find ourselves settling for Halal. When we discover something is Halal, i.e. not prohibited, we instantaneously perform that action without letting the following thought cross our mind: Yes it is permissible, but is it really the best choice to make? Will it allow my soul to excel closer to God, or rather will it have the counter effect?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A man once came to our 6th Imam, Imam Jafar as-Sadiq (peace be upon him) and said, "Imam, I want to build a large house, what is your opinion on this?" The Imam replied, "Although there is nothing wrong with it, a mo'min (believer) does not have time for these things." Thus we see that while the Imam acknowledges it was indeed permissible to build the large house, he advised that a true believer does not have time for such things.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We must question, are we selling ourselves short for worldly and materialistic things? Are we making our souls incapable of striving to the highest level, which Allah has made it able to do? If we believe that Allah is our Creator and is "closer to us than our jugular vein", then why do we sell ourselves short?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Sinning is a gradual process. A person does not become a regular sinner, especially in relation to major sins, in a matter of one situation. When our souls become accustomed to sinning and do not feel any regret upon doing so, it is because we constantly allowed the opportunity for our souls to excel, slip away. It then begins to feel comfortable with not having to struggle for the best, slowly becoming accustomed to settling for lower, or even compromising.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We often hear that we must choose between good and bad, between right and wrong. Yet if we open our minds and begin to think critically before we act, we will realize a better judgment is made when we make our options such that the choice is between good and best. For when we choose good over best, our soul feels no need to progress, always remaining content with its current state and forgoing that which will lead it closer to the state of perfection. Should we settle for that? Choosing the best over the good will certainly require ourselves to struggle more, yet the benefits of going above and beyond the bare minimum required of us in order to attain Allah's nearness we cannot even begin to imagine.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Let us take an example from a situation we recently found ourselves in. Although it is not prohibited by Islamic decree to celebrate New Year's Eve if it coincides with our period of mourning for Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), is it the best choice to do so? Will engaging in celebrations and greetings on that day have a positive effect in taking us away from the memory of our Imam and his sacrifice?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ayatullah Dastaghaib Shirazi has mentioned in his book Greater Sins that according to Allama Majlisi, there are four types of Taqwa:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wara at-Ta'biri – to abstain from the prohibited things.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wara as-Salihin – to abstain from doubtful things so that one may not commit a Haram act.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wara al-Muttaqin – to abstain from permissible things so that one is absolutely protected from Haram.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wara as-Sadiqin – to avoid everything that is not religious so that one may not waste precious time in useless acts, even though there may not be any risk of committing a sin.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We therefore see that while it is not Wajib, practicing Ehtiyat (precaution) not only with doubtful things but even those that are permissible, increases one's level of Taqwa (God-consciousness). The spiritual and physical benefits of this are indeed countless and invaluable. So before playing that doubtful musical nasheed next time, purchasing a bag of lollies without consideration of any gelatin content, delaying our prayers until we have completed all our work, running to the newest Halal restaurant in town just because we heard it is Halal – it is a good idea to give it greater thought and reap the benefits of abstaining from the unlawful, taking precaution, and going above and beyond to be closer to our Lord.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Allah has created man as the best of His creation. Are we worthy of being called so? At the end of the day, the choices we make for the betterment of our soul are ours to make. Are we choosing the best, or settling for less?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://islamicinsights.com/religion/religion/striving-for-perfection.html">http://islamicinsights.com/religion/religion/striving-for-perfection.html</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-75147470227484247792012-02-22T03:43:00.000-08:002012-02-22T04:04:24.417-08:00Those who prophesied the reappearance of the Imam of the time (a.s)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-INhq9SX-SR4/T0TQKhZXm4I/AAAAAAAAAvc/m3fxo3EpfjE/s1600/Baqiyatullah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-INhq9SX-SR4/T0TQKhZXm4I/AAAAAAAAAvc/m3fxo3EpfjE/s1600/Baqiyatullah.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Numerous traditions of the Prophet of Islam and the Infallible Imams (a.s) have predicted the reappearance of His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s). And that His Eminence will reappear and straighten the deviations and release humanity from the mischief of oppressors and he would establish peace and security on the earth and spread love and equity among the people and remove fear and anxiety from them. Those who have mentioned such prophecies are as follows:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. The Holy Prophet (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Numerous traditions are quoted from the Prophet of Islam that prophesize the advent of His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s):</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. Huzaifah has narrated from the Messenger of Allah (a.s) that he said, “If only a single day remains from the tenure of this world, the Almighty Allah in that same day, will raise a person from my descendants whose name and manners shall be like mine and his patronymic shall be Abdullah, and people would pay allegiance to him between Rukn and Maqam and the Almighty Allah will revive the religion through him and give him victories and all the people on the earth shall be the reciters of the formula ‘La ilaaha Illallaah’ (There is no God except Allah).”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Salman asked: O Allah's Messenger, which of your sons ?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Holy Prophet (a.s) said, “This son of mine. So saying, he placed his hand on Husain (a.s).”[1]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This tradition means that the reappearance and advent of His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) is from the confirmed and certain matters that it will indeed come to pass even if a single day remains for the world to end.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. Abdullah bin Umar has narrated from the Holy Prophet (a.s) that he said, “In the last age a man from my descendants, whose name is same is mine, shall arise and fill the earth with justice and equity just as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression.”[2]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">According to this tradition, the Master of the Age (a.s) shall spread truth and justice among the people and destroy oppression and injustice from the world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">c. Amirul Momineen (a.s) has quoted the Prophet of Islam that he said, “Mahdi is from my progeny and he has an occultation that many from the communities shall be misguided and deviated and in the end the treasures of the prophets shall become apparent through His Eminence, the remnant of Allah (Baqiatullah). He would establish justice and equity just as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression.”[3]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This tradition proves that His Eminence, the Master of the Age shall have an occultation and that a group of people would deny him and another group shall have faith in him. When he reappears he would be having with him the relics of the prophets and their successors and he would establish justice and truth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">d. Jabir bin Abdullah Ansari has related from the Prophet of Islam (a.s) that he said, “Mahdi is from my progeny and his name and patronymic is same as mine. He shall have an occultation; during which the communities would be lost and deviated. At last, like a brilliant moon he would shine and fill the earth with justice and equality just as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression.”[4]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">e. Saeed bin Jubair has narrated from Ibne Abbas who quotes the Holy Prophet (a.s) to have said, “Indeed, Ali is my successor and His Eminence, the Awaited Qaim, Mahdi (a.s) is from his descendents. And he would fill the earth with justice and equality just as it would be full of injustice and oppression. By the One Who has sent me as a Prophet and warner, those who are steadfast on his Imamate during his occultation shall be more precious than red sulphur.” Jabir asked His Eminence, “O Allah's Messenger! Is there occultation for the Qaim of your progeny ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Holy Prophet (a.s) replied, “Yes, by Allah! So much so, that he would purify the believers and destroy the infidels.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then he said, “O Jabir! This is one of the divine affairs and one of the secrets of Allah, so do not ever doubt it because doubt in a divine affair is disbelief.”[5]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This tradition also explains that those who shall believe in His Eminence, the Master of the Age during his occultation shall be very less and they shall be like red sulphur and their existence is very pure. And the occultation of His Eminence is by way of the test of the people. It is a matter not known to the people and it is in the hands of Allah. It is one of the divine secrets and if one has any doubt about it, one leaves the pale of Islam.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">f. The Prophet of Islam (a.s) said, “The world shall not end but that a man from my Ahle Bayt, whose name shall be same as mine, would have power and authority over all.”[6]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Qaim of the Progeny of Muhammad shall establish justice on the earth and fulfill the aims of the prophets and messengers. He shall hoist the flag of monotheism and he would destroy polytheism and apostasy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">g. Huzaifah bin Yaman has narrated from the Prophet of Islam (a.s) that he said, “O Huzaifah! Even if a day remains from this world, the Almighty Allah would prolong that day till a man from my Ahle Bayt takes over the reigns of power and establishes Islam. And the Almighty Allah never breaks His promise and He is having power over it.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">h. Abi Saeed Khudri has narrated from the Prophet of Islam (a.s) that he said, “In the last age, there would be terrible oppressions for my community from the rulers of that time the like of which have never occurred; so much so, that the world would become narrow for them and the earth shall be replete with injustice and oppression and the religiously inclined people shall not have any refuge. It is the time when the Almighty Allah would raise a man from my progeny and he would fill the earth with justice and equity just as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression. The earth shall become populated and divine blessings shall descend and the people who shall live for a few years would say, ‘If only those who had died were alive to witness this scene.’”[7]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">i. Ali Hilali has narrated from his father that he came to the Prophet of Islam (a.s) to find Fatima (a.s) sitting near his head while he was on his deathbed and she was wailing aloud. The Messenger of Allah (a.s) turned to Fatima and asked, “My dearest Fatima! Why do you weep ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">She replied, “Due to the afflictions after you.” He said, “My dear! The Almighty Allah sent your father for the people of the earth, then He selected your husband and revealed to me to marry you to him. And the Almighty Allah has bestows us, Ahle Bayt (a.s) with seven special characteristics, such that none before or after us shall have them. I am the seal of the Prophets and the greatest of them and the most beloved creature of Allah among them. And I am your father. And my successor is the best successor and the most beloved of them and he is your husband. Among us is the one with two green wings who glides in Paradise with the angels. He is the son of your father's uncle and the brother of your husband. And the two grandsons of this community are from us. And they are your sons, Hasan and Husain and they are the chiefs of the youths of Paradise and their father, by the One who sent me with truth, is the best; and he is from us.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“O Fatima! By the One Who sent me with truth, the Mahdi of this community is from us. When mischief, corruption and troubles shall surround the world and the paths become unsafe and the elders are not kind on the youngsters and the youngsters do not respect the elders, at that time the Almighty Allah will send the one who shall conquer the fortifications of deviation and ignorance and establish the religion just as I had done so in the beginning and he shall fill the earth with justice and truth just as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression.”[8]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">j. His Eminence, Amirul Momineen (a.s) has said, “I asked the Messenger of Allah (a.s), ‘O Allah's Messenger! Is the Progeny of Muhammad from us or from someone other than usa’ He replied, ‘Indeed it is from us. The religion shall be completed on us just as it began with us. People shall be relieved of mischiefs through us, just as they have got relief from polytheism through us. And through us they cultivate love and amity among themselves and their brotherhood is strengthened.’”[9]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is understood from this tradition that just as the Holy Prophet (a.s) saved mankind from deviation and polytheism and guided it to the straight path in the same way his last successor, His Eminence, the Remnant of Allah, the great (Baqiatullah Azam) would remove the problems of humanity and establish justice and truth upon them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">k. Jabr bin Nauf says that he told Abu Saeed Khudri, “By Allah! Our each year is worse than the previous one and every ruler and leader who comes is worse than his predecessor.” Abu Saeed said, “I have also heard from the Prophet of Islam (a.s) that he said:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Continuous mischief and calamities shall come on you. So much so that none shall dare to say: ‘God.’ After that the Almighty Allah shall raise a man from my progeny and he would fill the earth with justice and equity just as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression. And the earth shall expose its treasures for him. The economic affair and prosperity of the people shall be at its zenith and Islam shall become stable.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">l. Abu Saeed Khudri has narrated from the Holy Prophet (a.s) that he said from the pulpit, “Indeed the Mahdi is from my Progeny and from my Ahle Bayt. He shall reappear in the last age. The sky shall send its rain for him and the earth shall expose its contents for him. Then he would fill the earth with justice as the oppressors had filled it with injustice and oppression.”[10]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These were some examples of the traditions of the Holy Prophet (a.s) that are narrated and recorded in the books of all sects of Muslims. These traditions prove that the reappearance of His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) is a certainty. They give glad tidings to the Islamic world that His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) will definitely come and he would establish truth, justice and peace; such that no one would have ever witnessed such a period.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. His Eminence, Amirul Momineen (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Numerous traditions have been recorded from the chief of the Progeny of the Messenger of Allah, His Eminence, Ali (a.s) regarding the reappearance of His Eminence, the Awaited Imam Mahdi (a.s). Some of them are presented in the following pages:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. Abu Wail, His Eminence, Ali (a.s) glanced at Husain (a.s) and said, “This son of mine is the chief, just as the Messenger of Allah (a.s) has named him the chief and master. And in the future a man from his progeny having the same name as that of your Prophet's shall appear in the period of heedlessness of the people and non-existence of truth and the appearance of oppression; and the heavenly folks shall be elated by his advent and he is a man with a bright forehead and a high nose.”[11]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The above tradition proves the following points:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) is from the progeny of Aba Abdillah, the chief of the Martyrs, Imam Husain bin Ali (a.s).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. The reappearance of His Eminence shall be sudden and people would be least expecting it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. Suppression of truth and elevation of oppression are the signs of the reappearance of His Eminence.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">4. The tradition has described the excellent physical appearance of the Holy Imam.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">5. When he reappears, he would spread truth and justice in the true sense of the word.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. His Eminence, Ali (a.s) has said in some of his sermons, “A man from my Ahle Bayt shall be my caliph who would command by the order of Allah and strengthen the commands of Allah at a time when mischiefs and calamities would have surrounded human societies and hopes would be cut off and bribing would be commonplace.”[12]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">c. Asbagh bin Nubata has narrated from His Eminence, Ali (a.s) that he said, “In the last age, the Mahdi is from us. There is none in the community who does not wait for his reappearance.”[13]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">d. Imam Husain (a.s) has quoted his father, His Eminence, Ali (a.s) that he told him, “O Husain, your ninth descendent is the Qaim by truth and one who would spread religion and establish justice everywhere.” After that Imam Husain (a.s) asked for more details. In reply, His Eminence said, “Yes! By Allah! Who sent His Eminence, Muhammad and chose him above all, it is so, but he shall have an occultation which shall be confusing and perplexing but only those who are sincere and those who have certainty and from whom the Almighty Allah has taken the covenant of our guardianship (Wilayat) and in whose hearts He has made belief firm, and supported them and blessed them, they shall be steadfast on that Qaim and continue to have faith in him.”[14]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">e. His Eminence, Imam Ali (a.s) said, “Very soon the Almighty Allah shall bring a community that He shall love and they shall also love Allah and anyone who is poor among them shall become powerful. He is that same Mahdi whose appearance…”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These were some examples of the traditions of Ali (a.s) that convey glad tidings of the reappearance of the universal reformer, His Eminence, the Remnant of Allah, the Greatest (Baqiatullahil Aazam). And it is that he shall revive Islam and prove the signs of Allah among the people.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. His Eminence, Imam Hasan Mujtaba (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Numerous traditions are recorded from His Eminence, Imam Hasan (a.s) regarding the subject of His Eminence, the Master of the Age. Some of these traditions were of the time of the forced treaty with Muawiyah. Some partisans of His Eminence criticized him for signing the treaty and he told them, “Woe be unto you! Don't you know that I am your Imam and my obedience is obligatory upon youa And on the basis of the clear statement of the Prophet I am one of the two chiefs of the youths of Paradise ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The replied, “Yes! It is so.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He asked, “Don't you know that when His Eminence, Prophet Khizr made a hole in the boat, repaired the wall and killed that boy, Prophet Musa bin Imran, because he did not know the wisdom of those actions, became upset while all these actions were right and based on wisdom in the view of Allah. Don't you know that all of us are having the allegiance of tyrant of the time on our necks except His Eminence, Qaim (a.s), behind whom the spirit of Allah (Ruhullah) would recite the prayera The Almighty Allah has concealed his birth and kept him in occultation otherwise he too would have been forced to have the allegiance of a tyrant on his neck. That Qaim is the ninth descendant of my brother, Husain, the son of the chief of the ladies of the worlds. Almighty Allah will prolong his age and occultation. After that, by His power, He would make him reappear in the form of a young man aged less than forty years. And He is powerful over everything.”[15]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The above tradition contains some very important points. Some of them are as follows:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. The treaty of Imam Hasan (a.s) with Muawiyah was a necessary step as there was no other solution, because if armed confrontation had started, the victory would have been Muawiyah's. While on the other hand the military prowess of the Imam had been greatly marred due to the previous battles and due to the emergence of the Khawarij beliefs in the people their sloth and inclination towards a life of comfort and luxury had increased. In addition to this, his army was also infiltrated by some hypocritical elements and Muawiyah’s agents. Therefore it was not possible to have a serious military confrontation with Muawiyah and defeat him. So much so, that they were also prepared to abduct the Imam and hand him over to Muawiyah in exchange of monetary favors. Thus there was no other option except to sign a treaty and Imam Hasan (a.s) selected this same option. If he had not done so, Muawiyah would have defeated him and openly announced disbelief and irrelegiousity; like his son, Yazid had done.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. His Eminence, the Master of the Age, will not have the allegiance of any oppressor on his neck. Rather the Almighty Allah has kept him safe and secure away from the tyrant rulers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">c. When His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) reappears, His Eminence, Isa Masih (Jesus Christ) will arrive and recite congregation prayer behind him.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">d. The Almighty Allah has concealed the birth of His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) from the tyrant Abbaside rulers so that they may not get hold of him, as we have already discussed in detail before.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">e. The Almighty Allah shall give to His Wali, a long life and make him reappear as a young man, so that he may establish justice and truth on the earth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">4. His Eminence, Imam Husain (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Many traditions have been quoted from His Eminence, the chief of the martyrs (a.s) regarding the reappearance of the Awaited Imam (a.s). Some of them are presented below:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. Imam Husain (a.s) said, “The ninth of my descendants has a similarity with Prophet Yusuf and a similarity with Prophet Musa (a.s). And he is Qaim of us, Ahle Bayt of the Prophet. The Almighty Allah will improve his affairs in a single night.”[16]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The similarity to Prophet Musa (a.s) is that like him, Imam Mahdi (a.s) also was born unknown to the tyrannical ruler of that time due to his fear. And in the matter of his being concealed from the view of the people, His Eminence was like Prophet Yusuf (a.s), who remained in prison for a long time.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. His Eminence, Imam Husain (a.s) said, “The Qaim of the Ummah (community) is my ninth descendant and he is having an occultation.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">c. His Eminence, Imam Husain (a.s) said, “The twelve leaders are from us. The first of them is His Eminence, Amirul Momineen Ali bin Abi Talib (a.s) and the last of them is my ninth descendant who will arise with truth and rid the earth of barrenness and give life to it and make the true religion dominant even if the polytheists dislike it. Although he has an occultation during which a group will have doubts in him, another group will remain steadfast on it. He shall be in a painful condition (uncomfortable). He would be asked, ‘When would your promise be fulfilled if you speak trutha’ Though the patient ones and his supporters would have forbearance on this denial and falsification. And their reward and recompense is like that of the holy fighters who have fought with the sword, side by side the Messenger of Allah (a.s).”[17]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We come to know from this tradition that people shall be tested and examined through the occultation of His Eminence, the Awaited Imam (a.s). Only one whom the Almighty Allah has blessed and whose heart is made firm with faith would remain steadfast on the Imamate of His Eminence. These people shall be like the holy fighters of early Islam who fought alongside the Holy Prophet (a.s).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">d. Imam Husain (a.s) said, “The master of this affair, that is the Mahdi, has two occultations, one of which shall be longer than the other till some people say that His Eminence has expired.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And some of them shall go out to search for him but they would not be able to trace him. And only the Wise Lord is his guardian and only He is aware of his whereabouts.”[18]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">5. His Eminence, Imam Zainul Abideen (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Numerous narrations are recorded from the Imam of the Pious, His Eminence, Imam Zainul Abideen (a.s) regarding the glad tiding of the reappearance of His Eminence, the Master of the Age. Some of them are presented below:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. His Eminence, Ali bin Husain, Imam Sajjad (a.s) recited the verse of, “that He will most certainly make them inherit the Earth…”[19] and then said, “They are the supporters of us, Ahle Bayt and this “inheritance” shall be through a man from us, and he is the Mahdi of this community. The Holy Prophet (a.s) has said, ‘Even when the entire duration of the world's existence is exhausted, and one solitary day is left to embrace the eve of Doomsday, Allah will prolong that day and make it swell to such a length of time as to accommodate the ultimate reign of a person out of my holy Progeny who will be called by my name and my agnomen (Abul Qasim). He will then make the earth abound with peace and justice as it will have been fraught with injustice and tyranny before him.’”[20]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. His Eminence, Imam Zainul Abideen (a.s) said, “The verse of: Allah has promised...(24:55), is revealed about the Imam Qaim, His Eminence, Mahdi (a.s).”[21]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">c. When His Eminence, Imam Zainul Abideen (a.s) was apparently taken as a prisoner he said inter alia in his sermon, “From us was the Messenger of Allah and his successor, the chief of the Martyrs, Ja'far at-Tayyar in Paradise, the two grandsons of this community and the Mahdi who would slay the Dajjal.”[22]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">d. His Eminence, Imam Zainul Abideen (a.s) said, “Our Qaim has the characteristics of seven prophets: From our forefather Adam (a.s), from Nuh (a.s), from Ibrahim, from Musa (a.s) from Isa (a.s), from Ayyub (a.s) and His Eminence, Muhammad Mustafa (a.s).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As for the similarity with Adam and Nuh (a.s) it is a long life. From Ibrahim is the concealed birth and going away from among the people. From Musa (a.s) it is fear and occultation. From Isa (a.s) it is the controversies that people created about him. From Ayyub (a.s) it is release and success after trials and tribulations. From the Holy Prophet (a.s) is the armed uprising.”[23]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">6. His Eminence, Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Traditions regarding His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) and the certainty of his reappearance are also recorded from Imam Baqir (a.s). Some of them are as follows: Abu Basir has narrated that His Eminence said, “In the Master of this affair are similarities with Prophet Musa, Prophet Isa, Prophet Yusuf and Prophet Muhammad (a.s). As for the similarity with Prophet Musa (a.s) it is fear; from Yusuf (a.s) it is his imprisonment and occultation; from Prophet Muhammad (a.s) it is the taking up of arms. He shall continue to exterminate the enemies of God so that Divine Pleasure is achieved.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Abu Basir asked, “How would it be known that the Almighty Allah is pleaseda”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He replied, “He (God) will put mercy and kindness in his heart.”[24]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence, Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s) mentioned the names of the twelve Imams and successors of the Holy Prophet (a.s) that he had introduced and appointed and said, “The last and the twelfth of them is the one under whose leadership Isa bin Maryam will perform the prayer.”[25]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">7. His Eminence, Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Numerous traditions are quoted from Imam Sadiq (a.s) regarding the subject of the Awaited Imam (a.s) and the fact that his reappearance is certain, some of which are quoted by us as follows:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. The great Sayyid Ismail bin Muhammad Himyari, a prominent poet among the partisans of Ahle Bayt (a.s) says, “I was an extremist (ghulat) for a long time and believed in the occultation of Muhammad bin Hanafiyyah till the time Allah favored me and saved me from hell fire through Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s) and guided me to the true path. When it was finally proved to me with arguments and proofs that His Eminence, Imam Sadiq (a.s) is the proof of Allah on me and all the people and the one whose obedience is obligatory and incumbent. At that time I asked His Eminence, “Traditions are quoted from your respected forefathers regarding occultation and its authenticity; on whom would this occultation take placea”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Imam replied, “This occultation will occur for my sixth descendant who is the twelfth Imam from the Imams of guidance after the Prophet of Islam (a.s). These Imams, the first of whom is Amirul Momineen Ali (a.s) and the last is Mahdi, who will rise with truth. He is the remnant of Allah (Baqiatullah) and the Master of the Age. By Allah! Even if his occultation may be prolonged, he will in the end definitely reappear and fill the earth with justice and equity, as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Sayyid Himyari says, “When I heard this matter from my master, His Eminence, Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s), I repented to Allah and became regretful of my past. Then I composed a panegyric, which begins as follows:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When I saw that people have become deviated in religion</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I said ‘Bismillah’ and became a Ja’fari with the Ja’faris.”[26]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. His Eminence, Imam Ja'far Sadiq (a.s) said, “Our Master, that is Imam Mahdi (a.s) shall reappear and he is from the progeny of this person.” And so saying he pointed towards Musa Ibne Ja'far. “And he shall fill the earth with justice just as it would be full of injustice and oppression and the world shall be reformed through him.”[27]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">c. His Eminence, Imam Ja'far Sadiq (a.s) said, “The Khalaf-e-Salih (The righteous successor) is from my descendants and he is the Mahdi, whose name is Muhammad and patronymic Abul Qasim. He shall reappear in the last period of time. His mother shall be Narjis. There would be a cloud over the head of His Eminence and it would never leave him so that the heat of the sun may not affect His Eminence. The cloud remains with His Eminence and cries out loudly: ‘This is Mahdi, follow him.’”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Narrators have quoted many traditions like this from Imam Ja'far Sadiq (a.s) and all announce the certainty of the reappearance of the Awaited Imam who would establish truth and destroy falsehood.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">8 - His Eminence, Imam Musa Kazim (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Like the other Imams, His Eminence, Musa bin Ja’far has also explained the Imamate of His Eminence, the Master of the Age. Yunus bin Abdur Rahman says that he went to His Eminence, Musa bin Ja’far (a.s) and asked him if he were the Qaim.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Imam replied, “I am indeed the Qaim but the Qaim who would purify the earth from Allah’s enemies and fill it with justices and equity like it would be filled with injustice and oppression is my fifth descendant. He shall have a prolonged occultation such that many people shall deny him and others would have firm faith in him. Congratulations to our Shias who shall remain attached to our guardianship (Wilayat) during the occultation of our Qaim. They shall be steadfast on our guardianship and keep aloof from our enemies. They are from us and we are from them. They are pleased with our Imamate and we are satisfied with their adherence. Therefore, blessed are they. I swear to Allah, that they shall be with us in our rank in Paradise.”[28]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This tradition shows that His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) shall purify the earth of Allah’s enemies and destroy the oppressors.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">9. His Eminence, Ali bin Musa (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence, Imam Reza (a.s) has also given glad tidings to the Muslims that His Eminence, the Remnant of Allah (Baqiatullah) in the earths shall reappear. For example:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. The poet among the partisans of Ahle Bayt, Dibil Khuzai came to Imam Reza (a.s) and recited a panegyric he had composed regarding the afflictions of Ahle Bayt from Bani Umayyah and Bani Abbas. The opening lines were as follows:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Schools divine verses are bereft of recitation place.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Places of divine revelation are empty and the area has become deserted.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When he reached the lines:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Then if it had not been what I desire for today or tomorrow any heart would have broken in the grief of your signs.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence raised up his head to listen to what Khuzai hoped. That hope, which if it had not been there, his longings would have killed him. Dibil continued to recite and when he recited:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Advent of an Imam; it would definitely happen.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He will rise in the name of God and come with the bounties. He will differentiate between who is right and who is wrong.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And give recompense for good and bad.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence, Imam Reza (a.s) began to weep incessantly and turned to Dibil, the poet of the oppressed ones, saying, “O Khuzai! Ruhul Qudus (the angel) has made you recite these two couplets. Do you know who that Imam isa And when he would arise ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Dibil replied, “No my master. I have only heard that an Imam from among you shall arise and purify the earth of corruption and fill it with justice.” His Eminence, Imam Reza (a.s) began to introduce the great reformer, His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s) and said:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“O Dibil after me, my son Muhammad shall be the Imam and after him, his son Ali, and after him, his son Hasan al-Askari, and after him, his son, Al-Qaim who shall be the awaited one during the period of his occultation. When he shall reappear, the believers would follow him. Even if a single day remains for this world, Allah, the Sublime and the Mighty, shall prolong that day till he reappears and fills the earth with justice as it has been filled with tyranny. And as for the time of his reappearance, or to forecast about it, indeed, my father has heard from my grandfather and he from his forefathers from Ali (a.s) who says that the Messenger of Allah (a.s) was asked, ‘O Messenger of Allah, when will the Qaim of your progeny arise ?’</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He replied, ‘His likeness is to the Hour (Qiyamat), that only the Almighty Allah knows about it and it will arrive all of a sudden.’”[29]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. Hasan bin Khalid has narrated from Imam Ali bin Musa ar-Reza (a.s) that he said, “One who has no abstemiousness, has no faith and one who has no dissimulation cannot be a believer. And the most honorable of you near Allah, is the most pious; that is one who is most particular about dissimulation.”[30] His Eminence was asked, “O son of Allah’s Messenger, till what time ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He replied, “Till the appointed day, and that is the day of the reappearance of our Qaim. Therefore, whoever gives up Taqayyah before the reappearance of our Qaim is not from us.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence was asked, “O Son of Allah’s Messenger. Who is your Qaim ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He replied, “My fourth descendant. He is the son of the Chief of the slave maids. He shall purify the earth of injustice and oppression. He is such that his birth will be a matter of doubt for most of the people and he shall have an occultation. And when he reappears he would spread light and he would establish the scales of justice among the people and none shall be oppressed. And he is such that he shall encompass the world and a caller shall proclaim from the sky and call the people towards him and all the people of the earth shall hear that call. The call would be as follows:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“Know that! The proof of Allah has reappeared from the side of the House of Allah! Thus follow him. Because the truth is in him and with him. And it is the statement that He says:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">If We please, We should send down upon them a sign from the heaven so that their necks should stoop to it.”[31]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Almighty Allah has said:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“And listen on the day when the crier shall cry from a near place. The day when they shall hear the cry in truth; that is the day of coming forth.”[32]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“That is the advent of my son, Mahdi Qaim (a.s).”[33]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These were some traditions narrated from Imam Reza (a.s) regarding Imam Mahdi (a.s). The most important point derived from all these traditions is that the Imam of the time shall soon be the source of light of the whole earth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">10. His Eminence, Imam Muhammad Jawwad</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence has also given glad-tidings regarding the perfect reformer, the Master of the Age (a.s) and considered his reappearance a certainty in the following traditions quoted from him:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. The great trustworthy personality, His Eminence, Abdul Azim Hasani says: I came to my master, Muhammad bin Ali (a.s) and wanted to ask His Eminence regarding the word ‘Qaim’, that whether it is for the Mahdi or someone else. I saw that His Eminence began to speak and told me, “O Abul Qasim, indeed the Qaim is from among us, he is that same Mahdi, who should be awaited during his occultation. And when he reappears he should be followed. He is my third descendant. By the God Who sent Muhammad (a.s) and restricted the Imamate to us, if only a day remains from the world, the Almighty Allah shall prolong that same day till His Eminence reappears and fills the earth with justice and equity just as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression. And the Almighty Allah would reform his affairs in a single night just as He reformed the affair of His Kaleem (who conversed with Allah), Musa (a.s) when he went to get fire, but he returned in such a way that he had become a prophet and messenger of Allah.” Then he said: “The best deed of my Shias is to wait for the reappearance.”[34]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the above tradition, Imam Jawwad (a.s) has proved to the Shias and the narrators of his traditions regarding the Awaited Imam that the reappearance of His Eminence is definite and this will indeed come to pass.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. Saqar bin Abu Dalf says: I heard from His Eminence, Abu Ja’far Muhammad bin Ali (a.s) that he said, “The Imam after me is my son, Ali. His command is my command, his saying is my saying. His obedience is my obedience.” Then he fell silent. I asked him, “O Son of Allah’s Messenger! Who is the Imam after Ali ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He replied, “His son, Hasan.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I asked, “Who is the Imam, after Imam Hasan Askari (a.s) ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence, Jawwad (a.s) wept severely and then said, “The son of Imam Hasan will the Qaim with truth and the Awaited one.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I asked His Eminence, “Why is he given the title of ‘Qaim’ ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He replied, “Because his advent (Qiyam) shall be after he is forgotten and after the apostasy of those who had initially believed in his Imamate.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I asked His Eminence, “Why is he given the title of the Awaited one (Muntazar) ?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He replied, “He shall have an occultation, which shall be greatly prolonged, and his sincere followers will wait for him and those who doubt shall reject him. And his deniers will ridicule about him and those who fix the time of his reappearance shall be proved liars. The people of falsehood shall be destroyed and the Muslims and the people of submission shall get salvation.”[35]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">11. His Eminence, Ali al-Hadi (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence, Imam Hadi (a.s) has also given glad tidings regarding the Holy existence of His Eminence, the Wali of Almighty God in the following traditions narrated from him:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">a. Saqar bin Abu Dalf says: I heard Ali bin Muhammad bin Ali ar-Reza (a.s) say, "The Imam after me is my son Hasan and after him, his son Qaim who would fill the earth with justice and equity after it would be fraught with injustice and oppression."[36]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">b. The great religious jurisprudent, Sayyid Abdul Azim Hasani says: I came to my master Ali bin Muhammad (a.s). When His Eminence turned his attention to me he said, "Welcome to Abul Qasim who is our real supporter."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I told him that I wanted to present my religion to him and if he had no objection to it I would remain on it till I meet my Lord. His Eminence said, "You may begin reciting it."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I said: There is nothing like Allah and the Almighty Allah is beyond the two invalid extremes and comparison. He has no shape, form or substance. Rather He is the Creator of all bodies, the maker of faces, the originator of forms and substances. He is the master and Lord, the one who appoints for everything. And His Eminence, Muhammad (s.a.) is the slave and Messenger of Allah and seal of the prophets and no other prophet will come after him. And his Shariah (religious law) is the last Shariah. Till the Qiyamat, no other Shariah will arrive. After the Messenger of Allah (a.s), the Imam, the Caliph and the guardian (Wali) of the affair is His Eminence, Amirul Momineen Ali bin Abi Talib (a.s) after that. Imam Hasan, Imam Husain, Ali bin al-Husain, Muhammad bin Ali, Ja'far bin Muhammad, Musa bin Ja'far, Ali bin Musa, Muhammad bin Ali and after that you are my master!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After this statement, His Eminence, Abdul Azim fell silent. At that time the Holy Imam told him about the Imam after him and said, "The Imam after me is my son, Hasan. Then after him how would the people be with the successor of His Eminencea"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Abdul Azim eagerly asked about the successor of His Eminence, Hasan Askari (a.s). Imam Hadi (a.s) said, "He is the Awaited Imam, who is concealed from the eyes till he reappears and fills the earth with justice and equity as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Abdul Azim confessed to what Imam Hadi (a.s) commanded him and brought faith on the occultation of His Eminence, Imam Mahdi (a.s). After that His Eminence, Hadi (a.s) turned to him and said, "O Abal Qasim! This is the religion Allah likes for His slaves."[37]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">12. His Eminence, Imam Hasan Askari (a.s)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence, Imam Hasan Askari (a.s) has also explained about his son, the Qaim, the awaited Mahdi (a.s). We have mentioned some of his traditions in the foregone pages. One of them was as follows:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The reliable personality, Ahmad bin Ishaq bin Sa'ad Ashari says: I went to Imam Hasan Askari, Abu Muhammad (a.s) and wanted to ask him about his successor. His Eminence, Askari (a.s) began speaking and said,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"O Ahmad bin Ishaq! The Almighty Allah has not left the earth without a Divine Proof since the creation of Adam (a.s) and would not leave it without a Divine Proof till the hour shall be established (Day of Judgment). Through the Divine Proof calamities are repelled from the inhabitants of the Earth, rain falls and the bounties of the earth come out."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After hearing these words Ahmad asked His Eminence, "Who is the Imam and Caliph after you ?" Imam Hasan Askari arose from his seat and hurried inside his house and returned after a short while carrying on his shoulders a young boy, whose face seemed to be like the full moon and it seemed that he was three years old. After that, His Eminence, Imam Hasan Askari (a.s) said,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"O Ahmad! If you were not having a special and exalted position before Allah and the Proof of Allah, I would not have shown this son of mine to you. His name and patronymic is the same as that of the Messenger of Allah (a.s). He would fill the earth with justice and equity, as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression. O Ahmad! In this community his example is like that of Khizr and Dhulqarnain. By Allah! He will have an occultation and none shall be safe from destruction but one whom Allah has kept steadfast in the belief of his Imam and given the divine opportunity (Tawfeeq) to pray for his reappearance."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ahmad immediately asked, "Is there any sign or symbol so that it may satisfy my heart ?"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just then the boy, who looked like a full moon, began to speak,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"I am the remnant of Allah on His earth and the revenge-taker from His enemies; do not demand proof after what is before you…"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After hearing these words of the Proof of Allah, Ahmad went out of the house of Imam Hasan Askari (a.s) in such a condition that his complete being was surrounded by joy. When again he came to Imam Hasan Askari (a.s) after that day he said, "O son of Allah's Messenger! I was very much pleased with the favor you bestowed me that day. Thus what is the continuing practice of Khizr and Dhulqarnaina"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence, Imam Hasan Askari (a.s) said, "Prolonged occultation."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ahmad at once said, "O son of Allah's Messenger, would the occultation of the Promised Imam (a.s) be also prolonged ?"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">His Eminence, Imam (a.s) replied, "By my Lord! Yes, so much so, that even those who had accepted him, would turn away from their belief and none shall remain except one from whom Allah has taken the covenant of our guardianship and in whose hearts is rooted our love and those who support it with their hearts.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">O Ahmad! This is the command of Allah and one of the divine secrets and one of the Unseen matters of Allah. So remember what I am telling you and keep it confidential and be of the thankful ones so that you may reside in the position of Illyeen[38] with us."[39]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here we conclude the prophecies of the Messenger of Islam (a.s) and the Infallible Imams (a.s) regarding Imam Mahdi (a.s). The conclusion derived from all these traditional reports is that the Awaited Imam shall reappear and make the earth replete with justice and equity and he would eradicate all injustice and oppressions. Also that he is the son of Imam Hasan Askari and Her Eminence, Narjis (s.a.). He is the ninth descendant of Abu Abdillah Al-Husain (a.s). His name and patronymic is same as that of the Holy Prophet (a.s).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://maaref-foundation.com/english/index.htm">http://maaref-foundation.com/english/index.htm</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-70131996824892944882012-02-22T03:35:00.000-08:002012-02-22T03:38:20.625-08:00Philosophy of the Delay of Reappearance with the Presence of Conditions<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KErJICDW-qg/T0TSpRaHFZI/AAAAAAAAAvk/O9ZRb1w6pnk/s1600/Delay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KErJICDW-qg/T0TSpRaHFZI/AAAAAAAAAvk/O9ZRb1w6pnk/s1600/Delay.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: red;">QUESTION: </span></b>Throughout history, we sometimes come across conditions and opportunities in which it is assumed the requisites for reappearance are present, for example, the people’s receptiveness to religion, self-sacrifice in the path of Islam, giving their lives, and martyrdom for it was to such an extent or with such fervor and commotion that it appears that rather than 313 people, thousands of people are ready to sacrifice their lives under the command of the Imam (peace be upon him). With the existence of these conditions, what is the secret of the delay of the reappearance?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">ANSWER:</span></b> Regarding the presence of the conditions for the reappearance of the Imam of the Age (may Allah hasten his return): First, no one can claim to know with certainty, that is, say that all the conditions are fulfilled, since this claim itself requires knowledge of all the conditions, since it is possible that the traditions have not comprised an exposition of all of the conditions.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Second, assuming that the conditions are limited to those instances that have come in the traditions, as Shaykh al-Saduq has said, in reality one can still not be sure that those particular 313 companions and the remaining conditions are present.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>This is because if all of the conditions and circumstances apparently indicate the presence of the requisites of reappearance, without denying, for example, the existence of pure individuals who can be counted among the 313 companions of the Imam (peace be upon him), we also cannot claim that all of the individuals are like Salman, Abu Dhar, Miqdad, Rashid Hijri, and the people of Karbala’.</b><br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the present situation, with all the claims that are put forward in our society for returning to and aspiring at Islam, which are certainly a matter of pride, we still see that many bring the Divine laws under question in a large number of political, economical, and social issues. This is to such an extent that they regard some religious commandments that are not exclusive to a particular time or place as being restricted to the Prophet’s (peace be upon him and his family) time and on this pretext free themselves from responsibility. With the existence of such individuals and events, how can we say that the conditions for reappearance are ready, let alone asking about the reason for it delay?<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On this basis, in this issue it is appropriate for us to submit to the command and will of Allah, the All-Knowing, and not forgo the merit of waiting for the reappearance. And as was indicated in the tradition of ‘Ali ibn Mahziyar, we should attribute the concealment of the Imam (peace be upon him) to our own actions and always keep the memory of that personage alive in our hears and try to bring about the requisites of his appearance ever more by reforming our own actions.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Length of the Occultation and Difficult and Formidable Trials</span><br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: red;">QUESTION</span></b>: According to what is well known, during the occultation of Imam Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return), which will be very lengthy, difficult trials will occur such that a person will be a believer in the morning but a disbeliever in the evening. Are these types of trials in the time near the reappearance or will such trials occur throughout the period of occultation?<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>ANSWER</b></span>: According to Islamic principles, the world is a place of tests and trials and people are in a state of being tried during everything that happens to them. During youth and old age, whether wealthy or in need, in health and illness, when in power, when in leadership, they are always in a state of trial; it makes no difference whether the Imam (peace be upon him) is present or in occultation.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Qur’an says in this regard:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>أَحَسِبَ النَّاسَ أَنْ يُتْرَكُوا أَنْ يَقُولُوا آمَنَّا وَهُمْ لاَ يُفْتَنُونَ </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Have the people presumed they would be released upon saying, ‘We believe,’ without being tested?"[76]</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As we know, during the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family) himself, while all of the programs and incidents were a test, sometimes, severe trials would occur, in which none but a few were able to fulfill their obligation. For example, in battle, aside from individuals like ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him) and Abu Dujana and a few others, none were able to stand firm in jihad and defense of Islam and the Prophet. This is because during severe trials, only a limited number of people have the ability to stand firm; many an individual would flee out f fear. It has been related that in on the battles ‘Uthman fled from the battlefield and returned after three days. Or after the Prophet’s (peace be upon him and his family) demise, such a severe trial came to pass that not more than three or seven people were able to successfully perform their duty and remain firm on the line that the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family) had specified. Afterwards as well, such trials continued and shall continue, so that, in the words of the Qur’an:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">لِيَمِيزَ الْخَبِيثَ مِنَ الطَّيِّبِ </span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"…so that Allah separates the impure from the pure."[77]</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These trials have wisdom and many benefits, among which is that the disposition of the people of the world and society become ready for that dignified reappearance in which the resolute and steadfast believers will be separated from the remaining people. Preserving one’s faith during the period of the Imam’s (peace be upon him) occultation is possible by enduring very severe difficulties. Without doubt, millions of people leave this school of trials with pride and heads held high, that is through patience and forbearance and perseverance in difficulties, they succeed in preserving their religion, faith, and honor.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">According to the content of some traditions, during this period protecting one’s religion will become more difficult than holding fire in the palm of one’s hand, and oppression, injustice, corruption, and perversion will become prevalent. Values will be regarded as being against values, and things opposed to values will be regarded as values. Sins will be considered a matter of pride and accomplishment. One’s friends will encourage and induce him to sin and reproach him for not cooperating with oppressors, sinners, and corrupt people.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Women will enter into work exclusive to men. Many wars and natural afflictions will come about. In a tradition of Jabir ibn Abdullah al-Ansari regarding the commentary of the verse:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>أَطِيعُوا اللهَ وَأَطِيعُوا الرَّسُولَ وَأُولِي الأَمْرِ مِنْكُمْ </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"(O you who believe </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those in authority amongst you (the legatees of the Messenger)."[78]</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It has come that the Noble Messenger (peace be upon him and his family) gives news about his khulafa’ and successors from Imam ‘Ali (peace be upon him) until Imam Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return), names them one after one and gives tidings to the people about the conquering of the East and West of the world at the blessed hands of Imam al-Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return), and says, inter alia:</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">ذَالَكَ الَّذِي يُغِيبُ عَنْ شِيعَتِهِ وَأَوْلِيَائِهِ غَيْبَةً لاَ يُثْبِتُ فِيهَا عَلَى الْقَوْلِ بِإِمَامَتِهِ إِلاَّ مَنِ امْتَحَنَ اللهُ قَلْبَهُ لِلإِيمَانِ </span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">."</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"He is the one who will be concealed from his Shi‘a and friends such a concealment that none shall remain firm in belief in his Imamah except one whose heart Allah has tested for faith."[79]</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And Amir al-Mu’minin has also informed about these difficulties and tribulations in Nahj al-Balagha. In one instance, he says;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>مَا أَطْوَلَ هَذَا العِنَاءِ وَأَبْعَدَ هَذَا الرَّجَاءِ </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"How lengthy is this adversity, and how distant is this hope!"[80]</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It has even been related, in another tradition, that:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>إِنَّ لِصَاحِبِ هَذَا الأَمْرِ غَيْبَةً اَلْمُتَمَسِّكُ فِيهَا بِدِينِهِ كَالْخَارَطِ لِلْقِتَادِ </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Verily the Master of this Affair has a such a concealment that one who grips firmly to his religion during it is like one who picks thorns with his hands."[81]</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Therefore, as can be understood from the traditions, the entire period of concealment is a period of trial and examination; of course, the types of those trials are different in the different times and places. The believer during this period must show perseverance in abiding by the commandments of religion and struggling to elevate the word of Islam and honor of the Muslims and to repel the influence and cultural and political domination of foreigners. He must be in combat and jihad with all negative and unhelpful circumstances and conditions and be hopeful of the victory of Islam and the Muslims and the succor of Allah. He must not lose hold of himself in face of the power and strength of the disbelievers or become inclined towards their improper behavior. And at the same time he must have certainty that the promises of Allah and the Prophet of Allah are true and that eventually Islam will be victorious and conquer the world, as a result of which justice and equity shall fill the world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Notes:</div><div style="text-align: justify;">[76] Surah ‘Ankabut (29), Verse 2</div><div style="text-align: justify;">[77] Surah Anfal (8), Verse 37</div><div style="text-align: justify;">[78] Surah an-Nisa’ (4), Verse 59</div><div style="text-align: justify;">[79] A’lam al-Wara, Page 397</div><div style="text-align: justify;">[80]Nahj al-Balagha, Subhi as-Salih, Speech 187, Part 4</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">By: Ayatullah al-Uzma Lutfullah as-Safi al-Gulpaygani </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=8143">http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=8143</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-84363869530985572722012-02-21T09:03:00.000-08:002012-02-21T09:14:15.909-08:00Sayyed Khorasani and Shoaib bin Saleh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEDWoX6G5YE/T0POTFXBOvI/AAAAAAAAAvM/EfMcipKOIUI/s1600/Khorasani-Shoaib-bin-saleh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEDWoX6G5YE/T0POTFXBOvI/AAAAAAAAAvM/EfMcipKOIUI/s1600/Khorasani-Shoaib-bin-saleh.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Sayyed Khorasani:</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The author of 'Eqdud-Durar' in chapter five narrates from Hafiz Abu Abdullah Na'eem - ibn -Hemaad who narrates from Sa'eed-ibn- Musayyeb that the Messenger of Allah (S.A.W.A.)said:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'A person from Bani-Abbass shall emerge from the East and whatever Allah Wishes will be established accordingly. Afterwards, men with small black flags will rise and will battle out with the offsprings of Abu Sufyan. They will prepare the ground for the obedience and submission of Mahdi.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the same chapter of the afore-said book, its author narrates from Na'eem-ibn-Hemaad (from his book 'Fatan') that Muhammad-ibn-Hanafiya said: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'The people of the flag will emerge from Khorasan. Afterwards people of another flag with white will rise. A man from Bani-Tamim called as Tamim-ibn-Saleh will face them.... it will be then that people would seek and desire for Mahdi.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Again, in the same chapter of the same book, its author narrates from Na'eem-ibn-Hemaad and he from Shareey-ibn-Abdullah Rashid-ibn-Sa'ad and Hamza-ibn-Habib as such:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'The people of the East will swear allegiance to a person from Bani-Hashim who shall emerge with the army of Khorasan. A man from Bani-Tamim will face them.... If mountains confront him, he will destroy them. Later he will encounter the army of Sufyani and will defeat them. Fierce battle will take place with them and he will kill them. He will expel them from one place to another until he will defeat them in Iraq. Thereafter an incident shall occur between them as a result of which Sufyani will gain victory and the Hashimi man will escape towards Mecca and Tamim-ibn-Saleh (who is one of the leaders of the army of Hashimi) will escape towards Baitul-Muqaddas. When Mahdi shall reappear, the Hashimi man too will emerge. </b><br />
<a href="http://www.almujtaba.com/books/ahlulbayt/imammahdi/43.htm" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Source</span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-size: x-large;">Shoaib bin Saleh:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Commander of the Faithful (‘a) said: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“The Sufyani and the bearers of the black banners will confront each other while among the latter there will be a young man from the Bani Hashim in the palm of whose left hand would be a black mole. He would be in front of his soldiers and would be from the tribe of Bani Tamim. His name is Shu‘ayb ibn Salih.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hasan al-Basri said: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“In the land of Rey a person named Shu‘ayb ibn Salih will appear having broad shoulders, a dark complexion, and beardless. There will be an army of four thousand men under his command whose garments will be white and their banners will be black. They will constitute the vanguard of the Mahdi’s army.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">‘Ammar ibn Yasir said: <b>“Shu‘ayb ibn Salih is the standard-bearer of Hadrat al-Mahdi.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Shablanji said: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“The commander of the advance forces of Hadrat al-Mahdi (‘atfs) will be a man from the tribe of Bani Tamim with a slight beard and who will be called, Shu‘ayb ibn Salih.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Muhammad ibn Hanafiyyah said: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“An army will set out from Khurasan that will wear black belts and white shirts. One of the army’s vanguards will be the commander called Shu‘ayb ibn Salih or Salih ibn Shu‘ayb who is from the tribe of Bani Tamim. They will defeat the soldiers of the Sufyani and drive them away; they will arrive in Bayt al-Muqaddas and pave the ground for the government of Hadrat al-Mahdi.”</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=9090" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Source</span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Appearance of Sayyed Khorasani and Shoaib bin Saleh </b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">There are many questions about the personality of Shueyb and Khurasani. The most important is his personality and whether the purpose of Khorasani in these narratives is specific person or means Iranian leader that will be at the time of Imam's appearance?</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">But the narratives about the Khorasani in the Sunni's sources and later in the Shiite's sources have been quoted clearly imply that the person is from children of Imam Hassan (AS) or Imam Hussein (AS) and he has been called Hashemi Khorasani and his physical attributes has been expressed and says that he has a bright face and a mark in his right check or right hand ... to end. </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">But the narratives that can be find in the primarily sources of Shiite about this person, maybe introduced him as a supporter of Khorasanians or leader of Khorasani people or chief commander of Khorasan's forces. Because these narratives has named him only "Khorasani" and not Hashemi Khorasani. But there are some available evidences that imply he will appear simultaneously with the exit of Sfyany and Yemeni and he sends his forces to Iraq to defeat Sfyany's forces.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Among some questions that are raised about these two characters, is whether both name of Khorasani and Shueyb are two symbolic names and not real? in the response we can say that: the narratives about Khorasani have not mentioned his name so there is no reason to consider it a password. Yes, we can say that his relationship to Khorasan does not mean that he most be from State of Khorasn, because in the beginning of Islam, Khorasan used to refer to all the East which include Iran and other Islamic regions that used to be under control of Soviet Union. So the person of Khorasani could be from any district in this range, and his relation to Khorasan is correct. And primary sources of Shiite do not indicate that he is Hassani or Hosseini as the narratives in the sources of our Sunni brothers have been expressed.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">But about the Shueyb bin Saleh or Saleh bin Shueyb must say that narratives have mentioned some traits and features such as, he is young and skinny with thin beard. He has insight and certainly in his personality with great determination and supervision. He is an invincible man that can destroy the mountains in his way and passes... to end. Of course there is a possibility of covering his name for his safety until God wants to do so. Also it is possible that his name and the name of his father are similar to Shueyb and Saleh or something like that. Some narratives say that he is from Samarkand under occupation of Russia but most of narratives say that he is from Ray or is from tribe of Bani-Tamim or maybe part of Bani-Tamim named (Mahrom) or he is a servant from Bani-Tamim. Any way if this is correct, he should originally be from south of Iran, because there is still some tribes of Bani-Tamim or maybe from some tribes of Bani-Tamim who are living in the state of Khorasan since the beginning of Islam and today most of them became part of Iranians people and just a few village remains from them and are near Mashhad and speak Arabic or have relationship with Arabs.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Another question is about the time these two characters appear. In the first season we mentioned that apparently their appearance going to be simultaneous with exit of Sfyany and Yemeni in the year of appearance. Of course, it is possible that this narrative that says " the time between exiting Shueyb and handing over the official power to Imam is seventy-two months" could be true. So in this case the time appearance of Khorasani and Shueyb will be six years before the appearance of Imam Mahdi (AS) .But the time between the starting the government of Imam's base providers (the Iranians) by the powerful hands of a man from Qom and appearance of Khorasani and Shueyb as we said before is unknown. Unless some mentioned signs and indications that could determine the time in general. Among these indications is a narrative about the city of Qom and its events such as global status, religious status of this city and also that " it is close to the appearance of Imam " and has quoted in the Bihar v. 60, p. 213...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">There is a narrated from Imam Sadiq (AS) in Bihar v. 52, p. 243 has quoted that he said: "If I get to that time, I will keep myself for the master of this matter" and it is indicate that the time between appearance of Imam (AS) and establish of Eastern government and entering into a war with their enemies is not more then a normal life of human.Among narratives in this field, is a Hadith that was quoted from Bihar v. 52, p. 269:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">"God will grant the power to a man from family of Prophet (PBUH) who rule them base on justice and guide the people. He does not accept bribe when he judge between people. I swear to God I know him, his name and his father's name, then that the big man with Short body who has a spot in his face as well as two other marks in his body's skin. He is a righteous leader that protects and guard over what god deposit with him. He will fill the world with the justice, like it was full of oppression."</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">The narrative implies that the government of Imam Mahdi (AS) began by the noble man from descendant of Prophet's family and that probably means, Imam Khomeini, or after his age and before the appearance of Imam, could be one or more persons because as we said the narrative is incomplete...So Seyed Khorasani, is the last person before appearance of Imam Mahdi (AS) who rules Iran or is contemporary with the last person who would be king of Iran. </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">And the last question is raised about the Sayed Khurasani is whether he has official or religious authority or a political leader beside a religious authority such as a president or one of the great companions and advisers of the authority who lead people?</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">What can be understand from the narratives about him, is that he is a great leader in the East, but the only possibility that remains is that he takes the political responsibility of the country base on the command from his great leader, which could be possible. God knows better.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">And soon, we will mention some of the miracles and supernatural powers that God reveals by him and also the developing science during his time according to the narratives. Such as that, Imam chooses, "Sahleh", from the side of Karbala near Kufa for him and his family to live and some narratives been mentioned about this matter. Another thing about Imam is the long time that he stays in Iraq:</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">"Then he comes to Kufa and stay there until God wants so"</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">It look like the reason for his long staying, in addition to stabilizing the domestic situation in Iraq and choosing Iraq as the center of his government, is gathering all his assistances, especial companions from around the world in Iraq and organizing his military forces and sending them from Iraq to other territories, then among his army, move toward Quds to release it. Form Imam Baqir (AS) has been narrated that he said:</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">"when the up riser (Imam) enters the Kufa, no believer stay unless to be there or wanted to go there. And this is speech of commander of believers (Imam Ali ) (AS) to his companions to move with them to destroy this tyrant(Sfyany"(1)</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And also he said:</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">"Now I can see the up riser (Imam Mahdi ) in Najaf among five thousand angels came from Mecca to there while Gabriel (AS) is on his right side and Michael on his left side and believers moving in advance of him and he is spreading his forces around the cities"(2)</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">And in one narrative has expressed that:" Shueyb bin Saleh is his advance-guard"</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">He is the chief commander of Imam's forces. According to some narratives the first army that Imam will send to battle, will fight Turks. From bin-Hamad about this matter has quoted that :"Sfyany will fight with Turks, but their end will be by the hands of Imam Mahdi (AS) and that will be the first army that Imam will send to them" (3)</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Nearly the same theme has mentioned in the book of Malahem and Faten from Ibn-Tavous, p. 52 that he quoted seventy pages or more of Ibn-Hamad in his book... we said in the section of Turks that the meaning of Turks in these narratives is unbelievers of Turks not their Muslims. In some narratives there are group of Turks or their brothers that perhaps means Russians.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Appearance of Khorasani and Shueyb in Iran (p.130)</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://epochofappearance.persiangig.com/AsreZohoor/EpochoftheAppearance.pdf">http://epochofappearance.persiangig.com/AsreZohoor/EpochoftheAppearance.pdf</a> </div></div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-73645678614733188722012-02-21T04:46:00.000-08:002012-02-21T04:50:07.464-08:00The Remembrance of Imam-e-Asr (A.S.)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30ETc0DcPuk/T0OSLPCWDHI/AAAAAAAAAvE/vTx1FcxGjd4/s1600/al-mahdi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30ETc0DcPuk/T0OSLPCWDHI/AAAAAAAAAvE/vTx1FcxGjd4/s1600/al-mahdi.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Allah, the Blessed and the High says in the Holy Quran:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'O you who believe! Be patient and excel in patience and remain steadfast and be careful of (your duty to) Allah, that you may be successful.' </b>(Surah Aale Imran, Verse 200)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the interpretation of the above verse, Hafiz Qunduzi Hanafi, the famous scholar of the Ahle Sunnah, narrates a tradition from Imam Baqir (a.s.) in his book 'Yanabiul Mawwadah' pp. 5-6,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Be patient in complying with the obligatory acts and remain steadfast against the cruelties and oppression of enemies and establish contact with your Imam, Imam Mahdi al-Muntazar (the Awaited One)'.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A similar exegesis is also narrated from Imam Sadiq (a.s.), which is mentioned in various books like 'Ma'anil Akhbaar', 'Tafseer-e-Ayyaashi', 'Usul-e-Kafi', etc. Imam Saadiq (a.s.) says:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>'Be patient concerning your religion and be patient against your enemy and establish contact with your Imam'. </b>(Tafseer al-Meezan, by Allamah Tabatabai, pg. 201)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is no doubt that Allah, the Blessed and the High desires that His creatures on the earth should be in touch with His Proof and their Imam in every moment of their life. History is a witness to the fact that in the past, people failed to establish contact with Imam of their time. As a result, they could not acquire his recognition and consequently, refused to accept the caliphate of Hazrat Ali (a.s.), threw arrows on the bier of Imam Hasan (a.s.) and brutally killed Imam Husain (a.s.) in Karbala. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Each and every Imam (a.s.) was tortured and oppressed. The light of guidance did not reach the hearts of the people. As time went by, the situation turned for the worse. Today Muslims are living in a situation where there is no recognition of Imam and the true Islam. In fact, in the name of religion and justice, irreligiousness, injustice and oppression is widespread in Islamic society. Islam, which had come to enliven the people, has itself become lifeless. Imam Reza (a.s.) says in this regard:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">'May Allah bless the one who enlivens our affairs."</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The narrator inquired, 'How are your affairs enlivened?' Imam (a.s.) replied,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"By learning our traditions and teaching them to the people."</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thus, according to the above quote of Imam Reza (a.s.), Islam can be enlivened only through the acquisition of knowledge as subscribed by the Ahle Bait (a.s.) and acting upon it. For this, it is essential that one remains steadfast on his religion and maintains contact and relations with the Imam of his time and at the same time, prepare the ground for others to acquire the same knowledge. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Moreover, Islam cannot be enlivened unless one does not teach the knowledge of the Ahle Bait (a.s.) to others and the same cannot be achieved till one obeys the aforementioned verse of Quran by being steadfast in maintaining contact with the Imam (a.s.). The aim behind the above injunction is that no doubt, there is widespread unawareness concerning Islam in the society but there exists even more ignorance regarding the Imam of the time who is alive and active. Therefore, it is obligatory upon us to hold such gatherings. There are various ways and means to enliven Islam through such congregations, a few of which are mentioned hereunder: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1) The recognition of the real divine proof is gained. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">2) Such congregations are by themselves, worship of Allah. This fact has been testified by none other than the great Messenger of Allah (s.a.w.a.) himself when he (s.a.w.a.) declared,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Remembrance of Ali (a.s.) is worship." </div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Jaame' al-Sagheer, p. 16; Kunooz al-Haqaaeq, p. 120; Khair al-Bareeyyah, p. 51).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Today, Imam Mahdi (a.s.) enjoys the same divine position and status that Ameerul Momineen (a.s.) enjoyed during his time. Thus, the remembrance of the former too is divine worship. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">3) The love for their Imam (a.s.) will increase in the hearts of the people when their knowledge about him (a.s.) will be augmented. When they realize that the world exists because of him (a.s.), and that they themselves exist due to his existence. This dawn of this reality on the people will itself make people proximate to their Imam (a.s.) and their love, affection and respect for him (a.s.) will increase manifold. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">4) The very mention of this holy persona will make the people near to goodness and piety. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">5) The aim of the Holy Prophet's (s.a.w.a.) messengership is this very act. He (s.a.w.a.) declares,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"I have been raised so that I may complete the nobility of morality."</div><div style="text-align: justify;">6) People will be trained for the obedience of Imam (a.s.). The efforts of such gatherings to prevent the occurrence of situations that led to the battles of Jamal and Siffeen. The attention of the people will be particularly drawn to the fact that Imam-e-Zaman (a.s.) should not face that situation which Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (a.s.) had to encounter. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">7) As Imam-e-Zaman (a.s.) is Allah's sign, people attending such congregations will learn to respect the signs of the Almighty. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">8) Through such gatherings, people will get the taufeeq (grace) to pray for the early reappearance of Imam-e-Zaman (a.s.), a desire explicitly expressed by the Imam (a.s.) himself,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"And pray more for (my) early reappearance, for in it only is your salvation."</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Muntakhabul Asar, pg. 348)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">9) The possibility of an early reappearance will increase just as Allah had brought early respite for the Bani Israel from the clutches of the oppressive Firaon, due to their excessive pleadings and supplications. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">10) People will always be attentive towards the fact that they should be ready to sacrifice all that they have of their lives and their wealth for the sake of their Imam (a.s.) at any given time. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">11) Through Imam (a.s.), people will gain the recognition of Allah, which is the main aim behind creation. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">12) Such gatherings will lead to the recognition of the Imam (a.s.) by its participants. Therefore, even if they die before the reappearance, their death will not be one of ignorance, as announced by the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.),</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"One who dies without recognizing the Imam of his time, has died the death of ignorance."</div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Behaarul Anwaar, vol. 51, pg. 38)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Apart from enlivening Islam, such gatherings and meetings are also beneficial for the believers. Following are some of the benefits for the participants:<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1) There is a tradition the gist of which is as follows: Certainly a scholar who teaches people religion and invites them towards their Imam, is better and superior than seventy thousand worshippers. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Mikyaal al-Makaarim, vol. 2, pg. 389)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2) Imam Sadiq (a.s.) says,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"One who recites even one eulogy in the praise of his Imam in such gatherings, Allah will construct one house for him in paradise." </div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Wasaael al-Shiah, vol. 1, pg. 467; Mikyaal al-Makaarem, vol. 2, pg. 243)</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In another tradition Imam Sadeq (a.s.) says,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"None recites a poem in our glorification but that he is praised and glorified by the mighty angel Rooh al-Qodos himself." </div><div style="text-align: justify;">3) As such gatherings are a medium for the preparation of the reappearance of Imam-e-Zaman (a.s.), Imam Sadiq (a.s.) says,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"It is necessary that each one of you should prepare for the reappearance of his Imam (a.s.) even if it is with one arrow. If one even intends for the same, Allah increases his age."</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">(Mikyaal al-Makaarem, vol. 2, pg. 583)<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Come, in this 15th Sha'baan, let all of us act on the following injunction of Allah's Book, </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>"Then compete with each other in goodness."</b><br />
<b><br />
</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is a very critical command. The life of Islam depends on it. All of us should strive to outdo each other in our performance in such gatherings as these are embellished with the remembrance of our beloved Imam-e-Zaman (a.s.). By this insignificant service, may be, we can help him in the achievement of his lofty aim.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<a href="http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=4831">http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=4831</a> </div></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4609503018618827467.post-66867178876963344552012-02-21T04:37:00.001-08:002012-02-24T03:40:27.780-08:00The Title “Al-Qa’im” (The Riser)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a96Rq2ECzmY/T0d3GhNOw-I/AAAAAAAAAv0/z24phOSLv2k/s1600/The-Qaim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a96Rq2ECzmY/T0d3GhNOw-I/AAAAAAAAAv0/z24phOSLv2k/s1600/The-Qaim.jpg" /></a></div><b><span style="color: red;">QUESTION</span></b>:</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As everyone knows, one of the titles of the Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return) is “Al-Qa’im” (The Riser). A tradition has been related regarding the reason for his being given this title that requires contemplation, since it apparently indicates that this title was given because that personage will reappear after death. Yet we have over approximately one thousand traditions regarding that personage, his occultation, and long life, in view of which that tradition cannot be relied upon. However, if some clarifications about its narrators, text, and meaning can be given, it would be useful.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #274e13;">ANSWER</span></b>:</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The great scholar Shaykh al-Tusi narrates an unreliable tradition that apparently indicates that the “Qa’im” was given this title because he will arise after death. Shaykh al-Tusi has provided a bit of explanation about this tradition, but before we enter this topic, we consider it necessary to mention the basics of Imamah in Shiaism, which verses of the Noble Qur’an, traditions, and rational proofs affirm. These principles are as follows:<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Imamah is a Divine covenant, and individuals—who are worthy of bearing it—are specified and appointed by Allah, and this Divine selection and appointment is announced to the people by the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family).<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. The most important conditions of the Imam are sinlessness and being more knowledgeable than all other people, such that all be in need of his knowledge, guidance, and direction, which he be free of need of all, as has been related about Khalil ibn Ahmad that he said about the Imamah of Amir al-Mu’minin (peace be upon him):</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“The dependence of all others on him and his independence from all others are proof that he is the Imam of all.”[66]<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. The earth will never be without a Divine Proof and Imam, and whoever dies without having recognized the Imam of his time dies the death of ignorance.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">4. The Imams, as per the text of mutawatir traditions from the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family), are twelve personages.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">5. They are twelve and all are from the Ahl al-Bait (peace be upon them) of the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family), and according to the meaning of the mutawatir traditions of Thaqalayn (The Two Weighty Things), they are equals of the Qur’an and shall never part from the Qur’an.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">6. The Imams possess all of the religious and administrative stations except prophethood, which was sealed with the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his family). And as Imam ‘Ali (peace be upon him) has said in Nahj al-Balagha, they are قوام الله, or the Divine Guardians[67] over the creation, and on the basis of another tradition, they are the ship of salvation.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“None shall enter Paradise except one who recognizes them and whom they recognize, and none shall enter Hell except one who denies them; they are the ships of salvation and refuge of the ummat from deviation and discord.”[68]<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">7. The name, qualities, and order of the Imamah of the Imams (peace be upon them) was specified by the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family), and in addition, each Imam specified the following Imam.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These are among the important foundations of belief in the principle of Imamah, and for every Muslim who believes in the unseen world and in Allah, messengership, and the messengership of the Seal of the Prophets (peace be upon him and his family), the criterion of truth of these fundamentals is a rational proof, Qur’anic verse, or definite and mutawatir tradition. And most of these fundamentals can be proven by all three means.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Th e fact that Imamah is a Divine covenant and Allah specifies it has been argued by rational and Qur’anic proofs and the consecutively-narrated sunnat. ‘Allamah Hilli has established one thousand proofs of this issue in Alfain, and in fact this issue has its roots in the unity of Allah, and like the principle of Divine Unity, it comprises unity of rulership and authority over creation:<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“His is the command and rule, He is the King and the Ruler and the One in authority, He is the one who is cognizant of the interests of His servants. Commanding and Forbidding is for none save Him.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the issue of the necessity of sinlessness and being the most knowledgeable as well, abundant rational, Qur’anic, and narrational proofs exist, among which is this verse:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<b>“Then is one who guides to the truth more worthy to be followed, or one who does not find guidance except by being guided?”[69]</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>The late ‘Allamah has also established one thousand proofs about the issue of the necessity of sinlessness.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Regarding the principle that the earth shall not remain without a Proof and Imam, in addition to verses such as:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“And every people has a guide.”[70]</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“And certainly we conveyed them the verses of Qur’an continuously.”[71]</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“The day when We will call every people with their leader.”[72]</b><br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mutawatir traditions are also found, among which is the well-known tradition of Kumail ibn Ziyad from Amir al-Mu’minin (peace be upon him) which has been mentioned in Nahj al-Balagha and all other books of Zaydi and Twelver Shi‘a and even in the reliable books of the Sunnis, such as Tadhkirat ul-Huffaz. From this it is known that all are agreed that the earth will never be empty of a Proof; of course, it makes no difference whether the Proof is apparent or hidden.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And in Sawa`iq and other books of the Sunnis, a discourse has been related from Imam Zain al-`Abidin (peace be upon him) in which it has been explicitly mentioned that the world is not without an Imam from the Ahl al-Bait (peace be upon them).<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These principles have even been explicated in the supplications of the Imams from Ahl al-Bait (peace be upon them). In this regard, we will suffice with only a portion of the supplication of the day of `Arafah from Imam Zain al-‘Abidin (peace be upon him). That personage says:<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>“Allah! You have supported your religion in every age with an Imam whom You established as a standard for Your servants and a beacon in Your lands, after You linked his covenant with Yours and made him the means of Your pleasure, made obligatory his obedience and cautioned against his disobedience, commanded to execute his commands and shun what he forbids and that none should precede him nor stay back from him. Thus he is the guard of those seeking refuge and the recourse of the believers, handle of those who grasp (guidance) and the glory of the inhabitants of the universe.”[73]</b><br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyone who looks carefully at this portion of the supplication will both come to recognize the Shi‘a viewpoint regarding the principle of Imamah and will also understand that this station and these affairs were established for the Imam from the beginning and no one has added anything to them.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As for the issue that “Whoever dies without recognizing the Imam of his time dies the death of ignorance,” this is also a principle which reliable traditions have conveyed explicitly. The reliable traditions of Thaqalain (the two weighty things), Safina (the ship of salvation), and Aman (safety) all indicate this point.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And it has been explicitly mentioned in mutawatir traditions that the Imams are twelve personages, all of whom are from the Ahl al-Bait of the Prophet, and eleven of them are from the progeny of ‘Ali and Fatimah (peace be upon them), the first of them being Amir al-Mu’minin (peace be upon him), and after him Imam Hasan al-Mujtaba (peace be upon him), followed by the Prince of Martyrs Imam Husayn (peace be upon him), and after him nine people from his progeny, of whom the ninth—who is the twelfth Imam—is Imam Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return).<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thus, since these principles have been established with firm proofs, eminent scholars such as Shaykh al-Tusi, Shaykh al-Mufid, Ibn Babawayh, ‘Allamah Majlisi (Allah’s mercy upon them all) have refuted by relying on these principles the statement of anyone who, previous to their time or subsequent to it, has said something to the contrary or given attention to a rare and unaccepted tradition. This is because the buttress of the proofs of these principles is reliable to an extent that it can even be claimed that after the principle of Divine unity and prophecy, no principle is so reliable.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In view of all this, no Shi‘a scholar has held that the rising of the Qa’im (may Allah hasten his return) will occur after his death. And if anyone has brought up baseless possibilities, taking into account the points mentioned and since they are completely against objective realities, they must not be given any attention, since they have no scientific value.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">After this preface and explanation of this point, the life and long occultation of the Imam has been established on the basis of these principles. There remains no room for this tradition that says the Qa’im (may Allah hasten his return) will rise after death, since this notion would result in the severing of the thread of Imamah, the earth’s remaining without the existence of a sinless Imam, and the refutation of many traditions which indicate the life and long occultation of that personage.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Aside from all of these objections, the above-mentioned tradition’s chain of narrators is not reliable, and none of the `Ulama’ or Fuqaha’ (jurists) has relied on such traditions in even a single secondary issue. This is because one of the narrators is Musa ibn Sa`dan al-Hannat, whom scholars of rijal (the science of the study of narrators) have described as weak and whose narration they consider unreliable. He has narrated this tradition from ‘Abdullah ibn Qasim, whom they have titled “The Ever-Lying Hero.” He in turn narrates from Abu Sa`id al-Khurasani, and if we don’t consider his existence unknown according to reference books of rijal, then his position—in terms of being truthful or dishonest—is unclear.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Now, contemplate; how can this tradition—whose narrator is the champion of fabrication—be relied upon in opposition to those firm fundamentals and hundreds of reliable traditions?<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As for the reason for employing the title “Al-Qa’im” for the Imam of the Age (may Allah hasten his return):</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“Al-Qa’im” means “the one who rises.” The Imam shall rise against political conditions and religious and social deviations and fill the world with justice and equity after it had become filled with injustice and oppression. Additionally, the issue of rising with the sword and armed struggle is also understood from that title.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nevertheless, since “rising” has weak and strong degrees, it can be understood from traditions that all of the Imams were قائم بالأمر“Qa’im bi ’l-amr” (upholders of the affair), and it is proper and befitting to employ this title for all of them, in accordance with the positions they had. But since the rising of Imam Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return) is a world uprising that subsumes all social, individual, political, and economical conditions of humanity and brings to fruition Allah’s promises to His prophets and the prophets’ prophecies to their people, this title is used without qualification for that personage. Thus, anytime they say “al-Qa’im” and their is not context that another one of the Imams is intended, Imam Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return) is understood from that.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In a tradition that Shaykh Saduq narrates in the book Kamal al-Din from Imam Muhammad at-Taqi (peace be upon him), the ninth Imam, it has come:</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“The Imam after me is my son ‘Ali - Imam ‘Ali al-Naqi (peace be upon him) - whose command is my command, whose speech is my speech, and obedience to whom is obedience to me. And the Imamah after him has been placed in his son Hasan - Imam Hasan al-‘Askari (peace be upon him). His command is his father’s command, his word is his father’s word, and obedience to him is obedience to his father.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
The narrator says, After that the Imam fell silent.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I asked, O’ son of the Messenger of Allah, then who is the Imam after Hasan (peace be upon him)?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Imam at first wept to a great extent and then said, After Hasan, his son is the Establisher of Truth, the Awaited</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I said, O’ son of the Messenger, why has that personage been named “Qa’im” (The Riser)?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Imam replied, because after his name and remembrance is forgotten and most of the believers in his Imamah turn back from their creed, he shall rise.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I said, Why has he been named “Muntazar” (The Awaited)?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He replied, because he has an occultation with a very long duration, such true believers will wait for his advent and appearance, but people of doubt and uncertainty will deny and rejecters will ridicule him. Those who specify a time for it will become many and those who are hasty during that occultation will be destroyed, but the Muslims—those who submit—will achieve salvation.”[74]</div><div style="text-align: justify;">‘Allamah Majlisi has said, the meaning of “death” that has come in that weak tradition is that that personage will arise after his name and memory has been forgotten.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
And Shaykh Mufid relates a tradition from Imam as-Sadiq (peace be upon him) in al-Irshad in which he says,"سمي القائم لقيامه بالحق" “He was named the ‘Qa’im’ because he shall arise with truth.”[75]</div><div style="text-align: justify;">And from some narrations another reason that is understood is that the Imam was given this title by Allah because, in the worlds before this world, he used to stand and pray.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Regarding the entitling of that personage with the title “Al-Mahdi” as well, appropriate reasons have been mentioned. Of course, it is not the case that “Al-Qa’im” is the original title and “Al-Mahdi” is a secondary title. Both are titles and the usage of each name has a separate reason. Rather, it can be said that since the concept of the “Mahdi” is “the one whom Allah has guided” (من هداه الله), according to rank, a person must be “Qa’im” whom Allah has guided.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
That is, the “Qa’im” must be “one whom Allah has guided,” but it is not necessary that “one whom Allah has guided” must always be “Qa’im.” However, the actions, reforms, movement, uprising, and stand that will take place by the Mahdi (may Allah hasten his return), such as establishment of a world government, are dependent on rising and the becoming actualized of the title “Qa’im.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
These titles are not classified into primary and secondary, and all have been heard from the blessed tongues of the Prophet (peace be upon him and his family) and pure Imams (peace be upon them); nor do they have “old” and “new.” Each has its own particular concept and each has been used with attention to a particular aspect. In texts, sometimes all of these titles are mentioned, sometimes one, and another time one title is mentioned before another.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In any case, application of these titles is on the basis of essential and actualized titles, all of which that personage possesses.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">By: Ayatullah al-Uzma al-Hajj ash-Shaykh Lutfullah as-Safi al-Gulpaygani</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=6577">http://www.imamreza.net/eng/imamreza.php?id=6577</a> </div><br />
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