A Reader's request

As salaamu alaikum,

I got the following from a reader :

Dear Amatullah Abdulla

First of all let me introduce myself—Iam Shagufta –currently working .Iam 23years of age. As you see iam at the age of getting married –like any other parents—my parents are also worried about my wedding.

I have been the victim of this dowry and know exactly how horrible it feels when somebody judges you in terms of money and break the engagement just for some amount.

When I read your article about Dowry —I thought this could be a right platform for me to raise my voice and to find justice to all those women who has also been the victim of dowry .

I could request you read my article (PFA) and help us to eradicate this system in Islam.

Sr. Shagufta wrote:

DOWRY –THE PRICE WHICH EVERY WOMAN PAYS:
Your article dated Feb 2006 on “The Bride Price Dowry Abuse” ( also entitled Dowry in Islam!? ) have motivated me to raise my voice against the criminal act called DOWRY .In today’s world where every corner the priest are raising their voice for not demanding dowry, nor accepting dowry –still every second family demands the dowry and they are people who are also giving the demanded dowry. Families, who can afford the amount, have no problem but what about the families who cannot afford it. What are the priests doing with such matters? Is there is no law who can stop these people or punish them? Is there is no law in Islam?
Today if we don’t stop such people, nor punish them we can never stop dowry system .In all this cases the girl is the victim where as the boy escapes without any difficulty. Bridegroom’s families break the engagements and at times even the weddings for dowry. Is money is more important than somebody’s life. Does Islam permit this? If NO what are the steps are taken to stop this dowry system. To be honest-no efforts have been taken by any priest except few lectures.
In my opinion, strict laws have to be implemented for both the family who demands it and also to the family who encourages dowry. We have so many good priests who have transformed so many people by their teaching-Why can’t they all come forward and do something about it.
Today marriages is like barter system-if you are rich and can give maximum dowry, you will get better husband and a good family .Most of the Muslims seek fair and beautiful girls, incase they don’t demand dowry they want the wedding to be rich with all the world invited( large wedding parties) or need the maximum gold. Will all these people enjoy what they are doing; will they ever learn a lesson?
Why can’t we women’s have the authority to punish them, as per my knowledge in Islam-Both men and women have given the equal rights then why does the man enjoy the privilege of all the decision. We women who can’t even raise their voice against dowry as we are enclave by the bonds of parents respect. We are advice to stay away from all this. But I could like to put my step forward against dowry and could like to know if any laws-so that we can teach a lesson to all those people who believe in Islam, but never follow the true meaning of Islam.
Kindly let us know what the laws in Islam are for people taking dowry.
Regards
Shagufta.

Julaybib, The Prophet's Companion: A Hope for Desperate Souls

Amatullah Abdullah
There are many outstanding Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who come to mind throughout Islamic history. Some are huge in stature, and others are humble, yet highly respectable or brilliant in some way. Julaybib was a beloved companion of Prophet Muhammad however, not a likely figure to make it in the ranks of celebrated heroes of Islam.

His life and deeds were not sung nor recounted with reverence as they should be but with the meager facts available one sees hope for humble souls through his life.

Julaybib was not tall, or handsome, he was not known to be a gallant warrior on the battlefield before the advent of Islam. His personal attributes appeared so contrary to the normal heroes of old.

Julaybib was an orphan, deformed and extremely short. He was brutally rejected by society because the people were more concerned with his physical appearance and status than integrity.

His story is significant and many lessons can be learnt from it. It shows us a lot about how a human being can be devalued based on superficial things. His life is an example and hope for souls filled with despondency because they do not measure up to the norms set by society. His story touches the hearts of many even today.

Julaybib was an orphan from Madinah and acquired his name before embracing Islam. His name means "small grown" in Arabic which denoted his physical appearance. He was extremely short and could be compared to a dwarf when considering today's definition. It is also noted that he was even described as "damim" in Arabic which means deformed, unattractive or of repulsive appearance. In addition to his physical appearance, another important factor in his mistreatment had to do with his lineage. Lineage was an essential part in the Arab society he lived in, just as it is still important today in many cases. One's lineage determined his or her status in the society. His physical appearance, and unknown lineage, made people shun and spurn him. He was an outcast which caused him much public humiliation and disgrace.

Facing such disdainful treatment, Julaybib was apparently a lonely soul yearning for love and compassion. As he was carrying the burden of prejudice on his shoulder from the time he was born, companionship, love and compassion became alien to him.

There were often times, a question as to whether this man would even taste any compassion or respect in his life. The question cleared with his acceptance of the Prophet Muhammad's message of Islam.

He became a devoted servant of Almighty Allah and beloved companion of Prophet Muhammad. He gained respect and affection from Prophet Muhammad, for his sincerity, integrity and strong Islamic belief. Julaybib earned the honor he yearned and became one of the most valued companions of the Prophet. Prophet Muhammad cared deeply for this soul. He was sensitive of Julaybib's needs, and this is evident from the hadith where the Prophet approached a man from the Ansar (Madinah Muslims who helped the Makkans when they emigrated to Madinah), seeking the hand of his beautiful daughter in marriage on behalf of Julaybib. The Islamic scholar, Imam Ahmad, has recorded this incidents in Julaybib life as follows:

The Prophet went to a man of the Ansar and said:"Give me your daughter for marriage."The man answered excitedly, "Yes, O Messenger of Allah , it would be an honor and a blessing."For which the Prophet said, "I do not want her for myself."The Ansari man asked, "Then for whom, O Messenger of Allah?"And the Prophet answered, "For Julaybib."When the Ansari man heard this, he was shocked and said, "O Messenger of Allah, let me consult her mother." So he went to the girl's mother (his wife) and told her, "The Messenger of Allah is proposing marriage for your daughter."The wife of the Ansari seemed overjoyed and said, "Yes, it would be a pleasure."The Ansari explained to his wife that the Prophet was not proposing to marry their daughter for himself but he is proposing on behalf of Julaybib.His wife was almost shaken and immediately responded, "What! Julaybib? No, by Allah, we will not marry her to him."

When the Ansari prepared to leave to meet the Messenger of Allah and mentioned to him his mother's disapproval, his daughter, a pious Muslim, asked her father, "Who is asking for my hand?"

Her mother told her that the Prophet was asking her hand on behalf Julaybib.

Their daughter instantly asked them, "Are you refusing to follow the command of the Messenger of Allah? Follow his command, for I will not come to any harm."

The following is illustrated in the book Companions of the Prophet by Abdul Wahid Hamid:

Hearing her daughter's word, the Mother's heart being filled with remorse said: "Stop my daughter, don't say another word indeed I have erred I repent and I repent a thousand times over for as of this moment their is no one who I would prefer for you than Julaybib."

The following day the marriage was in place, Uthman and Ali, two of the Prophet's Companions, presented Julaybib a gift of money to help arrange the wedding reception, and to purchase necessary accommodation.

So the Prophet married the beautiful daughter of the Ansari to Julaybib who was once rejected by the whole society. The attitude of the daughter of the Ansari was that of a true believer.

The daughter's attitude shows her confidence of a Muslim woman who could not be influenced by the whims of the society. Unlike the parent's of today's world who are more concerned about status and money, her parents' reaction to her approval explains how Islam does not pressure a woman nor does it disregard her right to choose her husband.

Islam gave the happiness Julaybib deserved and he lived happily together with his beautiful wife until he was martyred.

The following hadith is another proof that Julaybib was indeed dearly loved and valued by Prophet Muhammad:

...After a battle, the Prophet asked his Companions:

"Is anyone missing amongst you?"

They said: "So and so and so."

He asked them again: "Is there anyone missing amongst you?"

They answered: "So and so and so."

He asked them for the third time: "Is there anyone missing amongst you?"

They said: "No."

Thereupon the Prophet said:

"But I see that Julaybib is missing."

The Companions searched for him amongst those who had been killed and found him by the side of seven enemies whom he had killed. He had been killed. The Prophet came there and stood by his body and said:

"He killed seven people. Then his opponents killed him. He is mine and I am his."

He then placed him upon his hands and there was none else to lift him but the Prophet Muhammad. Then the grave was dug for him and he was placed in it. ( SahihMuslim)

The man whose life was filled with despair and struggles won the hearts and admiration of many through his pure intentions, traits, and love for Islam and the Prophet. It is really amazing to note how this man of small stature managed to hold a sword and kill his opponent. He was able to accomplish much chivalry through the Prophet's encouragement.

There are so many lessons to be learnt from Julaybib's life. His story is a reflection of Islam. Islam ended his desolate world of disparagement.

The Houston Rockets unveiled a monument to honor the outstanding achievements of Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon,

By Amatullah Abdullah, Iqra Newspaper

The Houston Rockets unveiled a monument to honor the outstanding achievements of Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon, on April 11, 2008. The ceremony took place outside of the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Olajuwon retired after 18 successful years in basketball. He was selected as one of seven basketball icons to be honored by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. There was something different about his Hakeem's monument. Instead of a towering statue with his image frozen in time, in keeping with his Islamic principals, the bronze monument displayed a huge image of Olajuwon's retired jersey number 34.

( Read full article by clicking here : http://iqranewspaper.com/Articles/85A9640C-9582-46B6-965B-77DA1082F490.html)

How to make turkey

Assalaamualaikum,

My friend Karema, who is an American wanted to cook a traditional American dish - Turkey. I have never cooked a turkey before and I was all excited. She instructed me how to prepare the turkey and guided me step by step. It was fun and a new experience for me. I couldn't wait to call my parents in India and let them know I cooked a whole turkey!. We had video taped the whole things and you can view it by clicking here: " How to Make a Turkey"

Cook the Turkey and let me know how it turns out!. Enjoy!

Mother: A Soul to be Cherished

A woman fully attains womanhood when she becomes a mother. Mother is a beautiful word, incomparable beyond means! Regardless of the language used to say it, the beauty of the word ‘Mother’ never dies. In Islam the status of women is unambiguously unique and bears no comparison to any other depiction with regard to women, particularly mothers, in any faith known to mankind.

A mother's love for her unborn child is generally instinctive from the time she learns of her pregnancy. A mother loves and tries all that she can to keep the baby away from harm even before the baby’s arrival. She is ready to risk her life to shield her baby from harm. She is more concerned about the life, which came out of her than her own..

When a mother feeds her baby, she is ready to forgo her comfort and sleep for the baby. A mother sacrifices her comfort and sleeps when she is feeding her baby. This proves she is more concerned about her child than herself. A mother’s worth cannot be measured and her sacrifices for her child are inexhaustible. That is why Islam stresses so much on the importance of a mother.

"We have enjoined on man kindness to his parents; in pain did his mother bear him, and in pain did she give him birth" (46:15)

The following statements of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) refers to the apparent gentleness of mothers and the respect that ought to be paid to them, for in a patriarchal (before Islam), the focus was mainly on the man in his years of strength.

The Prophet Muhammad said, “Paradise lies at the feet of your mother” (Ahmad, Nasai).

Narrated by Abu Huraira:A man came to Allah's Apostle and said, "O Allah's Apostle! Who is more entitled to be treated with the best companionship by me?" The Prophet said, "Your mother." The man said. "Who is next?" The Prophet said, "Your mother." The man further said, "Who is next?" The Prophet said, "Your mother." The man asked for the fourth time, "Who is next?" The Prophet said, "Your father." [Sahih Al-Bukhari]

Narrated by Asma bint Abu BakrDuring the period of the peace treaty of Quraish with Allah's Apostle, my mother, accompanied by her father, came to visit me, and she was a pagan. I consulted Allah's Apostle, "O Allah's Apostle! My mother has come to me and she desires to receive a reward from me, shall I keep good relation with her?" He said, "Yes, keep good relation with her." [Sahih Al-Bukhari]

Every human, as a child , yearns for a mother’s touch and affection but the moment one walks into adolescence one tends to take their mother for granted. If they utter any word against our wish, we start to look at them as a rival instead of realizing that they are trying to protect us and guide us. We seem to forget all that they did right from the time Allah put us in their womb. I completely realized my mother’s worth only after I had a child. Can we imagine what or how our lives would have been without our mother? What would we have done? Who would have changed our diapers? Who would have fed us? Who would have kissed us ? Who would have hugged us? Who would have comforted us when we are going through hardship?…

Our Prophet Muhammad’s beloved mother, Amina, passed away when he was barely six years. His mother took him from his foster mother with the hopes of showering love and affection to her wonderful child. But he was not destined to enjoy the warmth, love and affection of his mother. Just imagine what that tender heart would have felt? With how much hope and dreams he would have left with his mother from his foster mother Halima. Just imagine how much he would have missed his beloved mother.

Reading Prophet’s Muahmmad childhood life would bring tears to people’s eyes.

**Even after losing his mother at such a tender age his perseverance never died. He bore everything patiently. Whenever He visited the grave of his beloved mother, tears used to stream down through his cheeks. Off and on he remembered his gentle mother on memorable occasions.

It is fard (obligation) for every Muslim to seek forgiveness for our parents and to pray for their well-being .

"Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honour. And out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say: ‘My Lord! bestow on them Thy Mercy even as they cherished me in childhood' "(17:23-24).

We have the privilege of enjoying the warmth and affection of our mothers right from our childhood and still lack gratitude for this wonderful soul, which our Creator blessed us with. We should be thankful to Allah for giving us this wonderful opportunity to be with our mother and take pleasure in her affection. Let us acknowledge this blessing and do our best for this beautiful soul. Indeed mothers are the souls to be cherished!

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Copyright Amatullah Abdullah

Being a Woman: Towards Self Understanding & Self Knowledge

As Salaamu Alaikum,


There was a Live Dialog on "Being a Woman: Towards Self Understanding & Self Knowledge "on Islam Online.net (IOL). Here is the link :

Being a Woman: Towards Self Understanding&Self Knowledge

My Love for Allah Awakened

Tears streamed down the face of my friend who sat with her face buried in her hands on the day of her marriage. I looked at her as she sobbed, unsure of what to do, and finally asked her, "Why are you crying?"

“I'm just nervous," she replied, but I knew that she was holding something back. Out of respect for her privacy, I reserved any additional questions I might have had about her situation. However, the ladies around her, family and friends, would not leave her be. They insisted on knowing.

I sensed that my friend just needed some space of her own. This is the day that changed me. Her tears triggered my own memories of an unhappy wedding day, my own.
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My whole family rejoiced on a day which was supposed to be special for every woman- my wedding day! The air fairly tingled with excitement and laughter was the tune for the day.

"You look gorgeous!" my cousin said.

I forced my lips to curve into a smile as I said, "Thanks."

My lips felt so much strain as they were forced to do something they didn't want –SMILE! And this was a pain that I was obliged to grow accustomed to from that day forth, until I found the courage to assert my rights.

Indian culture did not allow my parents to seek my permission for marriage. Custom dictates that the parents of both the groom and bride arrange the marriage, and the children agree without any say in the matter. My heart was not inclined to the man I was married to from the first day of my marriage and I was not able to express my feelings for the fear of being alienated from my family and society. I wanted to please my parents and the community and show them that I was happy, even if I wasn't. I didn’t want to be alienated from them and to add to that, I heard the people, making unpleasant remarks about women who says they are not happy with their husband nor interested in marrying a man their parents choose. This is the South Indian culture: If a woman is married to a man, and has a child from that marriage, she has to live with him no matter what.

“Are you trying to please your parents and the cultural society fearing that they would alienate you and speak ill of you if you told them that your marriage has not brought you any joy? Oh come on! You are no better than a robot!" my heart cried.

My heart was right; I was almost a prisoner to society. I became a lifeless woman from the first day of my marriage like a robot only going through the motions of life. .

I managed to hold on to this joyless marriage for four years. During those four years of unhappy marriage, each time someone asked me how I felt, I would once more force a smile to my lips and say what my heart didn't really feel.

My heart and eyes cried when I was alone. I was finding it too difficult to live with someone to whom my heart was not inclined .I forgot what the word joy meant in life! I begged my Lord and cried, "Ya Allah! Please make me happy …". Allah blessed me with one great gift for my endurance – my son!

Soon after my marriage stepped into its fifth year, my stamina or you could say, the robot's battery started dying. My plight had deteriorated to the point where my heart was no longer able to endure this misery I was going through. My health began to deteriorate. I was unable to pay the right attention to my son . I feared that I would fail in my duty as a mother.


As I sat there watching that pain in my friend's eyes, I was jolted out of my slumber…I awoke and I found myself conscious of my suffering. For the first time the following question ran through my mind: “Why am I suffering so much – I am a prisoner to society! - Why do these people say Islam has given so many rights to a woman and still expect me to be a prisoner?

We have heard people talking about women's right in Islam but what are they? Am I utilizing those rights? If so, then why am I suffering?

Is this what Islam wants from a woman?”

These questions made me ponder…I was a Muslim but I never took any pains to read or understand the Message of Islam. I just listened to people's words and took those words as Islam. I read the Qur'an in Arabic but never did I bother to read or know the meaning.

I thought it was high time that I stopped asking myself these questions and read about the rights of women in Islam.

I began reading and my heart and my eyes opened! The more I learnt and studied Islam, the more I understood the reason for my plight. The reason for my despair and agony was certainly not Islam, but myself as I chose to be a servant to the creation, instead of the Creator. Culture blinds people's perspective towards the true Islam and because of Culture, many suffer.

Islam holds a woman in high esteem. It honors and respects her in all ways. She has all the privileges she needs in life.

The right and duty to obtain an education.
The right to have her own independent property.
The right to work to earn money if she needs it.
We have equality of reward for equal deeds.
The right to express her opinion and be heard.
The right to provisions from the husband for all her needs and more.
The right to obtain divorce from her husband.
An ability to have custody of their children in the event of a divorce.
To refuse any marriage that does not please them.
And many more…

When our Creator (The Most Merciful) has honored women with all the privileges of life, then why do we (Muslim women) have to give in to the societal expectations and lead a prisoner's life? Where is this going to lead us? Misery in this world! And only God knows what our plight would be in the hereafter for choosing the society and culture before His words.

I acquired knowledge of my religion and discovered the beauty of Islam. I realized that I was more than what everyone said I was as a woman.

It was the right time to break the bars of the prison I was living in . Finally I made the choice...to be a servant of my Creator. God gave me the courage to assert my rights and seek Al Khul (divorce initiated by the woman). It was not easy, and the community was cold and stubborn to my assertion. They kept telling me, "You are a woman, you can't speak your opinion like this and you should learn to be patient."

I protested, "I was patient for four years for your sake…But now I want to lead a life for God's sake"

It was a JIHAD (struggle).

I had to bear a lot of ugly names and insinuations such as an sinner, arrogant, masculine, possessed with Jinn etc. I felt I was fighting all alone but I was not … Allah was with me. I was firm not to give up my struggle and finally I got my talaq (divorce pronounced by the husband)!

I felt a great burden was lifted from my heart after the talaq. Of course life was and is not easy as one would have thought. I had to tolerate all kinds of comments, which any woman would not like to tolerate. People of my society said, "You are not being Islamic and not acting like a woman. You are selfish. You are just bothered about yourself and not the child ….No woman should be like you. No matter what when you have a child you should learn to be patient…!"

I am not bothered about these words rather I am more bothered about-facing my Creator … the struggle which I underwent gave me strength and courage.

When I heard words like " Every woman is leading a fake life and it is unlady-like to speak out your desires," I felt I should fight for the women in our society. I decided to put my pen to paper and voice my opinion about the evils in the society. I decided to share the little knowledge of Islam I had acquired with my brothers and sisters as I realized despair and agony is all because of ignorance. Only knowledge can cause awareness. If only people knew what Islam says and how it is a guide for the whole humanity, there wouldn't be so much distress in this world.

By facing and witnessing much oppression in the society I became a Writer in Islam!


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© Amatullah Abdullah 2005 -2006

Note:**All Rights Reserved. Please do not repost/reprint items from here without permission from the author.

Ihsan: A Natural Flower with Sweet Fragrance (Part Two)

Faith (religion) has such a control that it keeps the whole humanity away from bended characteristics and mean deeds. It helps us to attain distinguishing morals. When we look into the Qur’an we always find whenever Allah called his servants towards virtue or wanted them to hate evil, He stated that it is an essential prerequisite of the faith in their hearts.

O you who believe! Be afraid of Allâh, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds (9:119)

Likewise when forbidding evil, Allah says:

O you who believe! Intoxicants (all kinds of alcoholic drinks), gambling, Al­Ansâb, and Al­Azlâm (arrows for seeking luck or decision) are an abomination of Shaitân's (Satan) handiwork. So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order that you may be successful.

Shaitân (Satan) wants only to excite enmity and hatred between you with intoxicants (alcoholic drinks) and gambling, and hinder you from the remembrance of Allâh and from As-Salât (the prayer). So, will you not then abstain? (5: 90-91)

From the above verse shows us that Allah warns the people against immorality and substantiate that a Muslim must possess an excellent moral character. Today the morality of a Muslim is in an ambiguous condition. Our character has developed a number of defects due to which we have to face inevitable downfall.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “ Modesty and faith are twins. One who gives up anyone of these would lose the other as well.”
Modesty is divided in to three parts; decent speech, bashfulness and humility

A man who believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak good or keep quite [Bukhari]

The Prophet (pbuh) said, “By God he is not a Mu’min”, he, repeated this thrice. Then when asked about it, he said, “ He from whose misdeeds his neighbours are not safe” [Bukhari]

When someone asked the Prophet, “Which is the best thing given to man?” He replied, “Best moral character” [Trimidhi]

“On the Day of Judgement there will be nothing heavier in the balance/scale of a Mu’min than the goodness of character. Allah (swt) dislikes an obscene and a rude talker. The bearers of good moral character reaches to the level of the carrier of the prayer and fasting on account of his good character.” [Ahmad]

All the above hadith clearly states that it is required for a Muslim to have best Morals

One would have read the philosophies or ethical teachings of great Philosophers like Aristotle and others like him. They have outlined these philosophies after great difficulty. Their teachings seem to be perfect or complete only in certain aspects while in other aspects they appear incomplete but the tradition of Prophet Muhammad is complete in all aspects.

Once a Muslim learned man was asked, “ Have you read the principles of Aristotle?” for which he replied, “ No, I have read the principles of Muhammad bin Abdullah. What or whose principle or philosophy can be more perfect than the principles of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)?”

One of the purpose of the Prophet for being sent down to the world is mentioned in this hadith: -

“I have been sent only for the purpose of perfecting good morals.” [Al – Muwatta]

Prophet’s teachings show that Islam had come to illuminate the lives of the people with the light virtue and good manners. If we collect all the sayings of the Prophet about the importance of good moral character then a voluminous book can be prepared about which many of the great reformers will be ignorant of.

Some might say, “It is easy to teach others but did he follow.” Our answer to them is “Yes he practiced what he preached.”

Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Indeed in the messenger of Allah you have the best of example.” (33:21)

“The messenger of Allah was neither ill mannered nor rude. He used to say that the best people among you are those who are best in character. [Bukhari]

When we perform an act with Ihsan, it becomes a tool leads another person to Iman.
The following are some examples from the life of Sahabah who did deeds with Ihsan:

Once when Umar bin Abdul Azeez was fanned by his slave girl, he dozed off and then when he woke up he saw her sleeping. He took the fan and started fanning and when she woke up and asked him why he was fanning her, as she is just a slave and he is the leader. He said,” You are only a human like me, and the heat affects you as it affects me, so I wanted to fan you and wanted you to feel the soothing breeze as you did for me.”
Once a salaf became angry with his slave girl and decided to punish her. The slave girl said, “ Allah has praised those who suppress their anger.”
He right away said, ” I repress it.” She then said, “ Allah loves those who pardon.” He said, “ I pardoned you.” She also said, “ Allah loves those who do Ihsan.” He without delay said, “ You go now, I set you free.”

Through these acts of Ihsan they won Allah’s love and praise.

“And the emigrants and the helpers, the leaders and the pioneers and those who followed them in well doing, Allah is well pleased with them and they are well pleased with Allah. And he prepared for them garden under which rivers flow as abides there forever. That is the supreme success.” [9:100]

When we look at the Sahabah, we see that just like us they too had face excessive fitnah during their time but they were able to achieve success after the revelation of Qur’an, which is a divine mercy. They had the same Quran, same criteria, same surah that we have but our deeds are still incomplete and we are adamant not to recognize or rectify our defects. How can we win the Paradise when we have given in to these worldly pleasures?

Every religion has its characteristic symbol, which makes it distinct from every other religion. Good character is the symbol of Islam. If any nation loses its honour in the eyes of Allah, it so happens because it is losing good moral character and becoming deprived of decent and honourable traits.

“Corruption have occurred on land due to what men’s hand have earned.” [30:41]

When we possess Ihsan, it leads others to Iman, i.e. through Ihsan we invite people to Islam. The story of Julaybib (ra) is beautiful example for this. Therefore the ultimate result of Ihsan, it invited the other person to Iman.

The following verses from the Quran and hadith affirm that the deeds done with Ihsan will never go waste and will definitely be rewarded.

Aysha (ra) narrated that the Prophet (saw) said, “Allah is Ar- Rafeeq, the soft hearted. He likes Rifq, which means soft heartedness. The reward which He gives for soft heartedness does not give for hardness: -nay such a reward He gives for anything.” [Muslim]


Whenever they (the believers) suffer from thirst, weariness or hunger in the cause of Allah, whenever they tread a place, which enrages the unbelievers, a good deed is recorded in their favour. Allah does cause the work of the Muhsinoon to go waste.” [9:120]


Yes, but whoever submits his face (himself) to Allâh (i.e. follows Allâh's Religion of Islâmic Monotheism) and he is a Muhsin (good-doer i.e. performs good deeds totally for Allâh's sake only without any show off or to gain praise or fame, etc., and in accordance with the Sunnah of Allâh's Messenger Muhammad Peace be upon him) then his reward is with his Lord (Allâh), on such shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. [2:112]

Is the recompense for Ihsan something other than Ihsan.” [55:60]

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Ihsan: A Natural Flower with Sweet Fragrance (Part One)

Our religion (Islam) has three significant aspects: Islam, Iman and Ihsan. To attain Iman one needs to accept Islam whole-heartedly. And when we beautify or perfect our Iman, we achieve Ihsan. When Allah talks about the believers in the Qur’an, He says,

“And that Allah is with the believers.” (Al Qur’an -8: 19)

But whenever Allah speaks about Ihsan, He says He loves those who achieve Ihsan.

And practice Ihsan. Truly, Allah loves the doers of Ihsan." (Al Qur’an -2:195)

In order to win Allah’s love we need Ihsan. Now what is Ihsan? In Arabic, Ihsan means "perfection" or "excellence." In Islam, Ihsan is the Muslim responsibility to obtain perfection, or excellence, in worship, such that Muslims try to worship God as if they see Him, and although they cannot see Him, they undoubtedly believe He is constantly watching over them.

We see this aspect of Islam defined in a hadith narrated on the authority of Omar, who said:
One day while we were sitting with the messenger of Allah there appeared before us a man whose clothes were exceedingly white and whose hair was exceedingly black; no signs of journeying were to be seen on him and none of us knew him. He walked up and sat down by the prophet. Resting his knees against his and placing the palms of his hands on his thighs, he said:"O Muhammad, tell me about Islam". The messenger of Allah said: "Islam is to testify that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah, to perform the prayers, to pay the zakat, to fast in Ramadan, and to make the pilgrimage to the House if you are able to do so." He said: “You have spoken rightly", and we were amazed at him asking him and saying that he had spoken rightly. He said: "Then tell me about Iman."He said: “It is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day, and to believe in divine destiny, both the good and the evil thereof." He said: “You have spoken rightly". He said: " Then tell me about Ihsan." He said: "It is to worship Allah as though you are seeing Him, and while you see Him not yet truly He sees you". Then he said: "O Omar, do you know who the questioner was?" I said: "Allah and His messenger know best". He said: "He was Jebreel (Gabriel), who came to you to teach you your religion." [ Sahih Muslim - Book 001, Number 0001:]

The purpose of our creation is to worship Allah (swt). Allah says,
“And I (Allah) created not the jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone).” [Al Qur’an 51:56]

Simile:

To understand Ihsan more clearly, we can use a simile.

Allah is beautiful and He loves beauty. (Muslim)

Allah gave a soul to each one of us. If a company provided raw material to someone and asked them to make a quality product, it would be obligatory for the one receiving the raw material to make the best product out of this raw material or else he would lose his recompense. If he destroys the raw material, will he be remunerated for that work? Likewise our soul is the raw material Allah has given us. So each one has to strive hard to perfect and beautify the soul. Undoubtedly, one who purifies and beautifies their soul will be victorious and those who spoil their souls are indeed losers.

Let us take another example, the mandatory worship, Salah. People pray for three different reasons:

1. Some pray for people to notice them and win their praise.
2. The second category of people pray because of the fear of Hell or desire for Paradise
3. The third sets of people are people who pray for Allah with the intention to please Him i.e. they pray with Ihsan (excellence).

This can be compared to a flower. The first group who pray for the appreciation of others or for the people is comparable to an artificial flower. The second group is like a real flower without fragrance and the third group is like a real flower with beautiful fragrance. The difference between a natural flower with a sweet fragrance and an artificial flower is like the difference between life and lifelessness. Similarly every deed of ours is like this flower. We should try to make a beautiful garland out of these flowers and adorn our souls with it.

When does Allah accept our deeds?

When someone wants to garland us, how do we accept the garland? By bending down, right? Similarly deeds done with humility would be accepted.

Aim of the Mandatory Worship

The pillars of Islam in their spirit and appearance may vary from one another but in aim and purpose, they are very close to each other. Salah, Zakah, Sawm and Hajj and other mandatory forms of worship are catalyst for real perfection. If these forms of worship do not purify the hearts of mankind, if they do not nourish the best qualities in those who observe them and if they do not improve and build the resolute relationship between Allah and the worshipper, then we should resuscitate our intention and our way of performing those acts. If we do not reform ourselves then we are left with nothing except destruction and devastation.

“ Among the desert Arabs there are some who believe in God and the Last Day and look upon their payment as pious gifts bringing them nearer to God and obtaining the prayer of the Apostle. Aye, indeed they bring them closer to Him; soon will Allah admit them into His mercy. For God is Oft Forgiving and Most Merciful.” (9:99)


With the help of these acts one must attempt to seek Allah’s mercy and love. We need to purify our soul and make it beautiful in turn to emit fresh and sweet fragrance. This fragrance will be overt in two circumstances.

When our souls are taken out – the Angels would say, “ Who is this sweet smelling soul?”
After the questioning in the grave, these deeds will come and stay with us.


Why is Ihsan Important?

A Mu’min (believer) has certain rights (Huqooq) over the people.

Allah's Messenger (SAW) said: "Verily, Allah has prescribed Ihsan towards everything.” (Muslim)

The following are certain deeds done with Ihsan –

Ihsan to: -

Parents and Relatives: Being kind to them
Orphans: Protecting their wealth and maintaining their rights.
Wayfarers: Helping them fulfil their needs.
Workers: Paying them their wages before their sweat dries.
People: Speaking to them in a good manner.
Animals: Feeding them when they are hungry.
Work: Being dedicated and professional.


Deeds without Ihsan

What will happen to deeds done without Ihsan?

For a man who commits the error of performing various forms of worship without understanding their true value and significance, worship will be nothing but a ritual or an imitation. Even a child can copy the movements of Salah and will be able to repeat what is recited during the prayer. These kinds of deeds do not benefit the faith or meet the purpose of worship. Our prayer must stop us from misdeeds.

A person asked the Prophet (peace be upon him), “Oh Messenger of Allah! A certain woman is well known for her prayers, fasting and charities but she talks rudely with her neighbours. Tell me what will be her fate?” Prophet (pbuh) said “Hell.” Then the man asked the Prophet again,” I know another woman who completes her compulsory acts and she does not do much of voluntary acts but she does not harm her neighbours. Tell me what will her fate be.” He replied, “Paradise” [Ahmad]

The deeds of the first lady did not benefit her because she did not perform her huqooqul (rights) correctly and her prayer was not reflected on her deeds. If she had fulfilled her rights correctly, it would have shown on her deeds and in turn it would reflect on people.

Another example from the saying of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is:


Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: Do you know who is a Muflis (pauper)? They (the Companions of the Holy Prophet) said: The one who has neither dirham with him or wealth. He (the Holy Prophet) said: The poor of my Umma would be he who would come on the Day of Resurrection with prayers and fasts and Zakat but (he would find himself bankrupt on that day as he would have exhausted his funds of virtues) since he hurled abuses upon others, brought calumny against others and unlawfully consumed the wealth of others and shed the blood of others and beat others, and his virtues would be credited to the account of one (who suffered at his hand). And if his good deeds fall short to clear the account, then his sins would be entered in (his account) and he would be thrown in the Hell-Fire. [Muslim]

In the above-mentioned hadith, we saw a man who has Iman and Islam but did not have Ihsan -- he lost all his good deeds. Similarly a person with only Ihsan and no Iman will also be a loser as his Ihsan, does not have any base (Iman) to stand upon. Lack of Iman (belief in Islam) will make any good deed void. Therefore only with Iman one can strive for Ihsan (excellence)

(Continued)

`Uthman ibn `Affan : The Man With Two Lights (Part Two)

`Uthman ibn `Affan:

The Man With Two Lights

(Part Two)

November 29, 2005

In the sixth year after the emigration to Madinah, the Prophet decided to perform the `Umrah, so he set out with 1,400 Muslims in pilgrim’s dress, heading towards Makkah, but the Quraish did not allow them to enter the city. The Muslims halted at a place called Hudaibiyah. From there, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) sent a messenger to the Makkans to tell them that the Muslims were there only to perform `Umrah and had not the slightest intention to fight. But the Makkans humiliated the messenger, and he returned without success. The Prophet then wanted to send someone highly respected by the Quraish, so he chose `Uthman, who was from one of the most powerful families in Makkah, the Umayyah family. The Makkans detained him for three days and a rumor reached the Muslim camp that `Uthman was killed. This outraged the Muslims and, without exception, all of the 1,400 Muslims present pledged that they would stand firm together to avenge `Uthman’s murder. After everybody had taken the pledge, the Prophet placed his own right hand on his left hand and took the pledge on behalf of `Uthman. `Uthman thus secured the unique honor that the Prophet himself took the pledge on his behalf. The Muslims’ pledge pleased Allah and it was revealed in the Qur’an:

[Surely, Allah was pleased with the believers when they took the pledge under the tree. Allah knew what was in their hearts. He sent down tranquility upon them, and rewarded them with near victory.] (Al-Fath 48:18)

Soon they learned that the rumor of `Uthman’s death was false.

`Uthman returned from Makkah in the company of an emissary from the Quraish. When `Uthman came to know about the pledge the Muslims in the camp had taken in his absence, and that the Prophet had taken the pledge on his behalf, he immediately took the pledge in person.

The Treaty of Hudaibiyah
After considerable discussion, an agreement was arrived at, which came to be known as the Treaty of Hudaibiyah. According to the pact there was to be a truce between the Quraish and the Muslims for a period of 10 years. Each party was free to make its own alliances, but they were not to resort to war. Any person who deserted the Muslims and sought refuge with the Quraish was not to be returned, but any person who escaped from the Quraish to the Muslims was to be returned to the Quraish. It was stipulated that the Muslims were to return to Madinah that year without performing the `Umrah, but they could come to Makkah for three days the following year to perform it, during which time the Quraish would vacate the city for them.

After the pact had been signed, the Muslims sacrificed the animals they had brought with them, broke camp, and started on the return journey to Madinah.

On the face of it, the Treaty of Hudaibiyah appeared to be loaded in favor of the Quraish. Some of the Muslims, particularly `Umar, felt dissatisfied with the terms of the pact and expressed their dissatisfaction. `Uthman, however, felt satisfied with the terms of the agreement. He was confident that the pact, though apparently in favor of the Quraish, would ultimately turn out to be against them. He said that the Quraish were fast losing their will to resist Islam, and in pursuance of the pact the Muslims and the Quraish would come into contact, and most of the Quraish were likely to accept Islam. While on the way to Madinah, Allah revealed to the Prophet that the Hudaibiyah pact was indeed a victory for the Muslims, as it would work to their advantage and the disadvantage of the Quraish. When the Prophet told of these tidings to `Umar and his other Companions, all of them felt happy.

The assessment of `Uthman also proved correct, for in the period following the Hudaibiyah pact, many Quraish including such stalwarts as Khalid ibn Al-Walid and `Amr ibn Al-`Aas accepted Islam.

`Uthman’s Generosity
`Uthman’s generosity was boundless. Even before he became caliph, he was always ready to spend in the cause of Islam and to help the needy with his wealth. On two special occasions he proved to be one of the most generous men of his time.

In AH 9 the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) got the news that the Romans were plotting to destroy the newly emerging Islamic state, so he wanted the Muslims to equip themselves and prepare for the attack. That seemed impossible because in that year the Muslims suffered from reduced crops and limited resources, as they had faced an extremely hot summer. They did not have enough resources to meet such a powerful army, and most of the Muslims were poor. This situation did not stop the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). He urged his Companions to prepare for the battle. Every Companion tried his or her best to strengthen the army. The women sold the few jewels they had to help the men prepare for the battle.

Though hundreds of Companions were ready to enter the battlefield, they were short of many things that were required for the battle, such as horses, camels, even swords and spears. The Prophet told them that this was a matter of life or death for the new Islamic state. The Prophet made a loud and clear announcement: “Anyone who provides outfits for the soldiers will have all his sins forgiven by Allah.”

The moment `Uthman heard this, he outfitted two hundred saddled camels that were to travel to Ash-Sham, and presented them all with 200 ounces of gold as charity. He also fetched 1,000 dinars and cast them into the lap of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). Again and again `Uthman gave till his charity topped 900 camels and 100 horses, besides the money he paid. Seeing `Uthman’s generosity, the Prophet made the following statement: “From this day on, nothing will harm `Uthman regardless of what he does.”

In another incident during Abu Bakr’s caliphate, people faced great hardships. The land became arid and very few people could find something to eat. The people of Madinah came to Abu Bakr and asked him to provide them with something that they could survive with.

However, the caliph could not do anything to help them. The treasury was empty and there were no other means to feed the hungry people. At that time, `Uthman received a huge caravan from Damascus carrying food and other goods. All the merchants gathered at his house asking him to sell them some of the items he received so that they could sell them to the people. `Uthman asked them to offer him a good price. Though the merchants offered a high price, he kept asking them for a higher price. They offered him the highest price they could and told him that no merchant would be able to pay more than what they had offered. But `Uthman told them that he would sell the goods to the One Who would pay him 10 times what the merchants had offered, that is, Allah Almighty. `Uthman then gave away the whole of caravan to the starving people of Madinah and did not charge them anything.

Election of `Uthman
`Umar ibn Al-Khattab, the second caliph of Islam, was stabbed by a Persian slave Abu Lu’ lu’ a Al-Majussi while performing Fajr Prayer. As `Umar was lying on his death bed, the people around him asked him to appoint a successor. `Umar constituted a committee of six people to choose the next caliph from among themselves.

This committee comprised `Ali ibn Abi Talib, `Uthman ibn `Affan, `Abdur-Rahman ibn `Awf, Sa`d ibn Abi Waqqas, Az-Zubayr ibn Al-`Awam, and Talhah ibn `Ubayd Allah, who were among the most eminent Companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and who had received in their lifetime the tidings of Paradise.

The instructions of `Umar were that the Selection Committee should choose the successor within three days, and he should assume office on the fourth day. As two days passed by without a decision, the members felt anxious that the time was running out fast, and still no solution to the problem appeared to be in sight. `Abdur-Rahman ibn `Awf offered to forgo his own claim if others agreed to abide by his decision. All agreed to let `Abdur-Rahman choose the new caliph. He interviewed each nominee and went about Madinah asking the people for their choice. He finally selected `Uthman as the new caliph as the majority of the people chose him.

Reign of `Uthman ibn `Affan (644–656 CE)
During the reign of Caliph `Umar (634-644 CE), the Islamic state expanded beyond the borders of the Arab Peninsula into Egypt, Syria, and Iraq. In the subsequent reign of Caliph `Uthman, the expansion continued on into Persia, India, Russia, China, Turkey, and across North Africa. The Islamic state became rich and powerful, and many people of these regions accepted Islam and learned the recitation of the Qur’an from the early Muslims.

His Life as a Caliph
`Uthman led a simple life even after becoming the leader of the Islamic state. It would have been easy for a successful businessman such as him to lead a luxurious life, but he never aimed at leading such in this world. His only aim was to taste the pleasure of the hereafter, as he knew that this world is a test and temporary. `Uthman’s generosity continued after he became caliph.

The caliphs were paid for their services from bait al-mal the treasury but `Uthman never took any salary for his service to Islam. Not only this, he also developed a custom to free slaves every Friday, look after widows and orphans, and give unlimited charity. His patience and endurance were among the characteristics that made him a successful leader.

His great love and trust in Allah were steadfast. Whatever happened, he never lost trust in Allah and resigned himself completely to the decree of Allah. He was always mindful of Allah, and that guided his actions.

`Uthman’s love for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was evident from the way he lived his life. He followed the teachings of the Prophet and took them as his source for guidance. As a way of taking care of the Prophet’s wives, he doubled their allowances.

Opposition and the End
During his caliphate, `Uthman faced a lot of hostility. His rivals started accusing him of not following the Prophet and the preceding caliphs. However, the Companions who were true defended him. These accusations never changed him. He remained persistent to be a merciful governor. Even during the time when his foes attacked him, he did not use the treasury funds to shield his house or himself. As envisaged by Prophet Muhammad, `Uthman’s enemies relentlessly made his governing difficult by constantly opposing and accusing him. His opponents finally plotted against him, surrounded his house, and encouraged people to kill him.

Many of his advisors asked him to stop the assault but he did not, until he was killed while reciting the Qur’an exactly as the Prophet had predicted. `Uthman died as a martyr.

Anas ibn Malik narrated the following hadith:
The Prophet once climbed the mountain of Uhud with Abu Bakr, `Umar, and `Uthman. The mountain shook with them. The Prophet said (to the mountain), “Be firm, O Uhud! For on you there is a Prophet, a Siddiq, and two martyrs.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Vol. 5, Book 57, Number 24)

Sources:

• 
  `Uthman bin `Affan, the Third Caliph of Islam by Ahmad, Abdul Basit.
  (Riyadh: Dar-us-Salam Publications, 2000).
• 
  Al-Mubarakphuri, Safi-ur-Rahman. Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum
  (The Sealed Nectar). Riyadh: Dar-us-Salam Publications, 1996.
• “Khalifa Uthman bin Ghani.” Witness Pioneer (http://www.witness-pioneer.org/vil/Articles/companion/00_`Uthman_bin_ghani.htm)

Uthman ibn `AffanThe Man With Two Lights - Part One

Uthman ibn `Affan: The Man With Two Lights

(Part 1)

‘A’ishah reported: The Prophet was lying down in his house with his thighs or his calves exposed. Abu Bakr asked permission to enter and was permitted while the Prophet was in that position and he came in and spoke with him. Then `Umar asked permission to enter. He was granted permission and came in and spoke with him while in that position. Then `Uthman asked permission and the Prophet sat up and straightened his clothing. He was then permitted and came in and spoke with the Prophet. After he had gone, `A’ishah said, “Abu Bakr entered and you did not get up for him or worry about him and `Umar came in and you did not get up for him nor worry about him but when `Uthman came in, you straightened out your clothing!” The Prophet said, “Should I not be shy of a man around whom the angels are shy?” (Muslim).


`Uthman ibn `Affan, one of the close Companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), was the fourth man to accept Islam and the third of the four rightly guided caliphs of Islam. During his reign the Islamic state expanded vastly. `Uthman accomplished a lot during his rule; one of his notable accomplishments was the distribution of single-volume copies of the Qur’an to the Muslim provinces. These copies were made from the master compilation produced under the first caliph, Abu Bakr.

Background
`Uthman came from a wealthy Ummayad clan of the Quraish tribe in Makkah. His father was a well-known and successful businessman. `Uthman’s father provided him with everything he needed to lead a comfortable life. He was brought up in a manner like any other child born into a wealthy family. Thus `Uthman enjoyed luxuries in life right from childhood. He was a distinguished child who had high morals. He was unique in his bashfulness and honesty, which distinguished him from his peers, and he grew up to become a man of great virtue, generosity, integrity, and modesty.

Successful Businessman
After his father’s death, `Uthman—although he was young—took charge of his father’s business and proved to be very efficient and successful just like his father. The business expanded and grew. He was very truthful and honest in his dealings and, unlike others, he spent most of his profits to help the needy. He did all that he could to bring a smile to the faces of the poor and needy, and so he became respected and adored by many.

Journey to Islam
During that time the Arabs were worshiping idols and indulging in many evil practices like burying their daughters alive and shedding blood for little or no reason. Racism was prevalent, and this racism made the masters treat their slaves cruelly. Women were also treated badly and were considered as objects. The woman’s sole purpose was giving birth and pleasure.
As a young man, `Uthman was full of energy. He traveled to many places for business. Due to this he got a chance to meet different people from different nations and to learn a lot about other beliefs, which were different from his own. His views about the idols and the lifestyle of the Arabs changed when he got to know the Christian and Jewish beliefs.

One day when `Uthman returned to Makkah after his usual business trip, people were speaking about Muhammad ibn `Abdullah. The whole city seemed to be in a state of chaos because Muhammad presented himself as Messenger of Allah and told everyone that there was only one God worthy of worship and that one should not associate any partners with Him. Muhammad asked them to forgo all the false deities and worship Allah alone. Although the Arabs knew Allah, Muhammad’s message seemed strange, as they had long since worshiped other deities in addition Allah.

`Uthman knew Muhammad very well. Muhammad was a man of remarkable personality and excellent morals. Though he did not accept this belief immediately, he never opposed Muhammad or Islam as the other leaders of the Quraish did. He remembered that on many of his travels he had heard the Christian and Jewish scholars speaking about the coming of the final Prophet in the land of Arabia. Whenever `Uthman heard about the final prophet from the Christian and the Jews, he hoped that this prophet whom they spoke of would lead the Arabs into the light of guidance and knowledge. He pondered over the Christian and Jewish talk on the final prophet and finally he decided to visit one of his friends, Abu Bakr, to find out about this new belief. He knew that Abu Bakr had accepted Islam and that he was very close to the Prophet (peace be upon him). Abu Bakr explained things about Islam. He told him that Islam asked people to worship Allah alone and to give up the worship of all false gods or idols. Then Abu Bakr invited him to embrace Islam. `Uthman felt that Islam was the true religion of Allah and immediately embraced Islam on Abu Bakr’s invitation. After that, `Uthman met the Prophet (peace be upon him) and declared that he accepted Islam.

Those who accepted Islam became prone to hardships, suffering, and oppression. The Quraish tortured the Muslims in every possible way, attempting to force them to leave Islam. `Uthman faced a lot of oppression at the hands of his pagan uncle Al-Hakam ibn Abi Al-`Aas, who was angry with him for leaving their forefathers’ religion. He tied `Uthman up and tried to force him to leave Islam. Nevertheless, `Uthman remained firm in his belief and never gave in to this oppression. Finally, when his uncle realized that `Uthman would never leave Islam, he left him to himself. `Uthman, with all his might, defended Islam and never gave in to the torture and oppression. Right from the time he accepted Islam, he became close to Prophet Muhammad and married the Prophet’s second daughter, Ruqayyah, who was a divorcee. Uthman’s marriage to Ruqayyah was a happy union; they both loved each other and led a blissful life.

Migration to Abyssinia
At that time, most of the people who embraced Islam were the less privileged and poor. The Muslims became a target for the pagans, and they tortured the Muslims, even to death, because they refused to leave Islam. Because of this, some Muslims left Makkah and migrated to Abyssinia (Ethiopia) to seek refuge.

`Uthman along with his wife Ruqayyah migrated to Abyssinia. He was one of the first to do so, and later other Muslims who were agonized by the Quraish to desert Islam followed him.
An-Najashi (the Negus), a Christian king who ruled Abyssinia at that time, was well known for being a just ruler. An-Najashi, in his power, provided the immigrants with all necessary facilities for their stay. The Quraish sent a delegation to Abyssinia and hoped that they would convince the king to expel the Muslims from his state. The king heard both the Quraish and the Muslims, and refused to expel the Muslims. The Quraish delegation saw `Uthman and tried to persuade him to return to Makkah, but their aim failed.

While the Muslims lived peacefully in Abyssinia, `Uthman started a business. Though he faced some difficulties in the beginning, his business flourished because of his hard work. His wife, Ruqayyah, gave birth to a boy whom they named `Abdullah. After this `Uthman came to be known as Abu `Abdullah. `Uthman remained very popular among Muslims because of his generosity to the poor.

He returned to Makkah from Abyssinia because of the false news that had spread among Muslims living in Abyssinia that the lives of the Muslims in Makkah were better, as the Quraish of Makkah had accepted Islam.

In Makkah, `Uthman spent most of his time in the company of the Prophet (peace be upon him). He always tried his best to help the Muslims who were poor and needy.

Death of Ruqayyah
He then again migrated with his wife to Madinah, which was known as Yathrib at that time, in 622. `Uthman carried on his business as a merchant and was successful. `Uthman and Ruqayyah lived on happily for sometime in Madinah.

The Muslims knew about Makkah’s merchant caravan that was coming back from Syria, and was led by Abu Sufyan. They wanted to attack this caravan, but Abu Sufyan was aware of their plan and changed the path of his return to Makkah. At the same time he sent a message to Makkah’s leaders, telling them of the Muslims’ plan.

The Makkans gathered a huge army and headed towards Madinah to put an end to Islam and the Muslims, while the army of the Muslims had only 314 men. The Makkan and Muslim armies met at a place called Badr near Madinah. `Uthman was unable to take part in this battle, as his wife Ruqayyah fell ill. She died after a few days, leaving `Uthman in grief and sadness. At that time, the Prophet (peace be upon him) and the Muslims were fighting with the Quraish at the battlefield of Badr. The Muslims emerged victorious, and the news of victory reached Madinah when Ruqayyah was being buried.

Union With Umm Kulthum
After Ruqayyah’s death `Uthman was deeply saddened. At this time `Umar ibn Al-Khattab proposed that `Uthman marry his daughter Hafsah, who was a widow. He refused the offer, as he knew that the Prophet was going to propose to her. Towards the close of the year 625, the Prophet married Hafsah.

Umm Kulthum was the Prophet’s third daughter and he married her to `Uthman. `Uthman thereby earned the name Dhun-Nurain, “the Possessor of Two Lights,” because he had married the Prophet’s two daughters, one after another. `Uthman’s marriage with Umm Kulthum was as happy as that of the marriage between him and Ruqayyah. Unfortunately, such happiness was shortly lived, for Umm Kulthum died barely six years after her marriage. She bore no children.

A year after the battle of Uhud—two years after the death of Ruqayyah—`Uthman’s son `Abdullah passed away. `Uthman loved his son dearly and his death caused him intense grief. The Prophet consoled `Uthman, and advised him that as a true Muslim, he should accept the will of God.

(Continued....)


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© Amatullah Abdullah 2005.