Categories
Concepts & Innovations
Bid’ah (Innovation in Religion)
Jihad (Striving)
Daily Practices and Worship
The Importance of Honesty and Integrity in Daily Life
The Significance of Daily Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Thing that Invalidates the Salah
- That which invalidates Wudu
- Uncovering the `Awrah on purpose
- Turning away from the Qiblah
- Excessive continuous movement during the prayer
- Omitting one of the pillars of the prayer
- Saying the Salam before completing the prayer
- Laughing out loud
- Eating and drinking
Conditions of the validity of Salah
- Being Muslim
- Being of sound mind
- Discernment
- Being free of ritual impurity
- Removal of tangible impurity
- Covering the ‘awrah
- The time for that prayer should have begun
- Facing the qiblah
- Forming the right intention
Making Niyah (Intention)
Making Dua (Supplication) in Native languages
Etiquettes of Entering the Masjid
- It is Sunnah when you leave your house and head towards the mosque to recite the Du`a for walking to the mosque. Allahumma iftah li abwab rahmatika (O Allah, open to me the gates of Your mercy).
- You should enter the mosque with your right foot first and say the words that were narrated from the Prophet pbuh.
- When you enter the mosque, you should not sit down until you have prayed two Rak`ahs to “greet the mosque”
- You should not raise your voice in the mosque even in reciting the Quran because that may disturb the worshippers.
- You should exit the mosque with the left foot first, and say the Du`a narrated from the Prophet pbuh.Allahumma i’simni min Ash-Shaytan ir-rajim (O Allah, protect me from the accursed satan)
Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah)
Islamic Financial Ethics
Funeral Rites(Janazah)
Voluntary Sawm (Fasting)
The specific days include the following:
- The day of `Ashura which is the tenth of al-Muharram .
- The day of `Arafah , which is the ninth day of Dhu’l-Hijjah.
Periods when it is Sunnah to fast
The periods during which it is Sunnah to fast include the following:
- The month of Shawwal
- The month of Muharram
- The month of Sha`ban
Voluntary Prayers (Salah)
- 2 units (rak'ahs) before the Fajr prayer
- 4 units before the Dhuhr prayer
- 2 units after the Dhuhr prayer
- 2 units after the Maghrib prayer
- 2 units after the Isha prayer
Jumu’ah (Friday Prayer)
Islamic Greeting
Halal and Haram (Permissible and Forbidden)
Islamic Dress Code
- It is not permissible to wear thin or see-through clothing;
- It is haram to imitate the polytheists and unbelievers in their manner of dress;
- It is haram for women to imitate men and men to imitate women in the way they dress.
- Can Not wear Silk for adornment purposes
- Can Not wear Pure Red coloured clothes
- It should cover the whole body;
- It should be thick enough (to conceal the skin);
- It should be loose and not tight;
- It should not be decorated;
- It should not be heavily perfumed in public.
Family & Social Relations
Conflict Resolution Within the Family
The Role of Extended Family in Islam
Ties of Kinship
Mahram and Non-Mahram
Non-Muslim Family
Children
Islamic Manners and Social Conduct
Islamic Etiquette (Adab)
- Purity of Intention: Always ensure that your actions are performed with the pure intention of pleasing Allah. This includes sincerity in worship, work, and interactions with others (Islam Question & Answer).
- Respect and Kindness: Treat others with respect and kindness, whether they are Muslims or non-Muslims. This includes being honest, fair, and just in all dealings (Islam Question & Answer).
- Eating and Drinking: Follow the etiquette of eating and drinking, such as saying "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah) before eating, using the right hand, eating with three fingers if using hands, and avoiding wastefulness. Thanking Allah after meals is also encouraged (Islam Question & Answer).
- Social Conduct: Maintain good manners in social interactions, such as speaking kindly, avoiding backbiting and gossip, and greeting others with "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you). Show respect to elders and compassion to the young (Islam Question & Answer).
- Entering the Mosque: When entering the mosque, step in with the right foot first and recite the supplication for entering. Perform two Rak’ahs (units of prayer) before sitting down, and maintain cleanliness and respect within the mosque (Islam Question & Answer).
- Seeking Knowledge: Approach the pursuit of knowledge with humility, patience, and dedication. Act upon the knowledge you gain and strive to better yourself and your community through what you learn (Islam Question & Answer).
- Personal Hygiene: Maintain personal cleanliness, including regular bathing, proper grooming, and cleanliness in clothing. This extends to ensuring cleanliness in private acts, such as using the bathroom (Islam Question & Answer).
Respecting Parents
Fundamental Beliefs
Aqeedah, Madhab, and Sects in Islam
- Aqeedah: Islamic creed that consists of the fundamental beliefs held deeply and with certainty in the hearts of Muslims.
- Madhab: A legal school of thought within Islam that interprets Sharia law.
- Sects: Distinct groups within Islam, each with its own interpretation and practice of Islamic teachings.
Aqeedah
Aqeedah involves the core set of beliefs that every Muslim holds with certainty. These include the belief in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and divine predestination. These beliefs are essential and foundational, forming the bedrock of a Muslim's faith and guiding their understanding of the universe and their place within it.Madhab
Madhab refers to a methodology or school of thought that provides interpretations of the Islamic law or Sharia. The four well-known madhabs are Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali each named after the early Islamic scholars who founded them. These schools differ mainly in their methodology of deriving rulings and emphasize different sources and proofs within the Islamic legal tradition. Each madhab provides a unique perspective, allowing Muslims to follow a coherent and consistent interpretation of law that aligns with their community and cultural practices. Legal Schools of Thought in Islam- Hanafi: Founded by Imam Abu Hanifa, this madhab is known for its flexibility and reliance on reason and opinion, making it the most widely followed jurisprudential school in the Muslim world.
- Maliki: Originating from Imam Malik ibn Anas, this school places a strong emphasis on the practices of the people of Medina as a primary source of law, reflecting the practices directly observed by the early generations.
- Shafi'i: Established by Imam al-Shafi'i, this madhab is characterized by its rigorous adherence to the hadiths as the primary source after the Quran, emphasizing a systematic approach to jurisprudence.
- Hanbali: Founded by Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, it is known for its strict reliance on the texts of the Quran and Hadith, with minimal rational interpretation.
Sects
Sects in Islam arose as different groups within the Muslim community interpreted Islamic teachings in varied ways. The Prophet Muhammad mentioned in Sunan Ibn Majah 3992 that his Ummah would split into 73 sects, with only one being on the right path, which he defined as those adhering to his teachings and those of his companions at his time. Among these sects, eight major groups have been historically significant, each with distinct theological views:- Mutazilah: Advocates of reason and free will in theological issues, believing that humans create their actions independently of divine predestination.
- Shia: Followers who emphasize the religious authority of the Prophet Muhammad’s family, particularly his cousin and son-in-law, Ali, and his descendants.
- Khawarij: Initially supporters of Ali in the early Islamic civil wars, they later split from him and are known for their strict and uncompromising views on the purity and governance of the Muslim community.
- Murjiyah: This group emphasizes God’s mercy, believing that faith alone will save a sinner, and actions, while important, do not affect one’s faith.
- Najariyah: Known for their rejection of the orthodox attributes of Allah, interpreting them metaphorically rather than literally.
- Jabariyah: Determinists who argue that humans have no free will and that all actions are predetermined by God.
- Mushabihah: Attributers who liken God’s attributes to human characteristics, contrary to the mainstream Islamic doctrine of tawhid (the uniqueness and oneness of Allah).
- Naajiyah: Often identified with Ahlus Sunnah Wal-Jama’ah, they are considered the group that adheres to the practices of the Prophet and his companions.
Avoiding Major Sins
The Six Articles of Emaan (Faith)
- Belief in Allah: The absolute oneness and uniqueness of Allah.
- Belief in Angels: Spiritual beings created by Allah who perform various tasks.
- Belief in the Holy Books: Allah’s revelations given to His prophets, including the Quran, Torah, Psalms, and Gospel.
- Belief in the Prophets: Allah’s chosen messengers to guide humanity, from Adam to Muhammad (PBUH).
- Belief in the Day of Judgment: The day when all individuals will be resurrected for Allah’s judgment based on their deeds.
- Belief in Predestination (Qadar): Divine decree; Allah has knowledge and control over all that occurs.
The Five Pillars of Islam
- Shahada (Faith): Declaring there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.
- Salah (Prayer): Performing the five daily prayers, which are a direct link between the worshipper and Allah.
- Zakat (Charity): Giving a fixed portion of one's wealth to the needy, which purifies wealth and promotes social justice.
- Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan): Abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn till sunset during the month of Ramadan.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca): Performing the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime, if one is physically and financially able.
Understanding the Meaning of the Kalima Shahada
Major Islamic Practices & Observances
Eid in Islam
Umrah
Hajj & its Types
Hajj is one of the best acts of worship. It is one of the pillars of Islam with which Allah sent Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and without which a person’s religious commitment is incomplete. The True Purpose of Hajj
Types of Hajj
There are three types of Hajj: Tamattu’, Ifrad and Qiran.
- Tamattu’ means entering ihram for ‘Umrah only during the months of Hajj (the months of Hajj are Shawwal, Dhu’l-Qi’dah and Dhu’l-Hijjah; see al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 7/62). When the pilgrim reaches Makkah he performs tawaf and sa’i for ‘Umrah, and shaves his head or cuts his hair, and exits ihram. Then when the day of al-Tarwiyah, which is the 8th of Dhu’l-Hijjah, comes, he enters ihram for Hajj only, and does all the actions of Hajj. So Tamattu’ involves a complete ‘Umrah and a complete Hajj.
- Ifrad means entering ihram for Hajj only. When the pilgrim reaches Makkah he performs tawaf al-qudum (tawaf of arrival) and sa’i for Hajj, but he does not shave or cut his hair and does not exit ihram, rather he remains in ihram until he exits ihram after stoning Jamrat al-‘Aqabah on the day of ‘Eid. If he delays the sa’i of Hajj until after the tawaf of Hajj, there is nothing wrong with that.
- Qiran means entering ihram for ‘Umrah and Hajj both together. Or entering ihram for ‘Umrah first then including Hajj in that before starting the tawaf of Hajj. That is done by intending that his tawaf and sa’i will be for both Hajj and ‘Umrah.
The actions done in Qiran are the same as those done in Ifrad, except that the pilgrim doing Qiran has to offer a hadiy (sacrifice) whereas the pilgrim doing Ifrad does not.
Marriage
How to Find a Spouse Islamically
- Intention and Prayer (Niyyah and Du'a) The journey to find a spouse begins with sincere intention and prayer. Making du'a (supplication) to Allah for guidance and seeking His blessings is fundamental. A pure intention aligned with the desire to fulfill half of one’s faith and build a righteous family is essential.
- Consultation and Advice (Shura) Seeking advice from family, friends, and community members can be invaluable. Trusted individuals can offer perspectives, recommend suitable candidates, and provide support throughout the process. Engaging in shura ensures that decisions are made thoughtfully and with collective wisdom.
- Personal and Family Involvement The involvement of family in the search for a spouse is highly encouraged. Parents and elders often play a crucial role in identifying potential matches and facilitating introductions. Their experience and insights can help in making informed and balanced decisions.
- Compatibility and Values Compatibility in terms of religious commitment, character, values, and life goals is crucial. Islam emphasizes the importance of deen (faith) and good character as primary criteria for selecting a spouse. Ensuring shared values and mutual understanding lays the foundation for a harmonious marriage.
- Halal Interaction Interactions between potential spouses should adhere to Islamic guidelines, maintaining modesty and respect. Meetings should be conducted in the presence of a mahram (a male guardian or a female family member) to ensure propriety and avoid situations that may lead to temptation or impropriety.
- Istikhara (Seeking Divine Guidance) Performing Salat al-Istikhara, the prayer for seeking guidance, is a recommended practice when making important decisions such as marriage. It involves asking Allah to guide one’s heart towards what is best for their faith and future.
- Practical Considerations Practical considerations such as financial stability, family background, and future plans are also important. Open and honest communication about expectations and life goals helps ensure mutual understanding and realistic planning.
- Formal Proposal (Khitbah) Once a suitable match is identified, a formal proposal or engagement (khitbah) is made. This process includes the agreement of both parties and their families, setting the stage for a respectful and joyous union.
Preparing for Marriage in Islam
The Rights and Responsibilities of Spouses
Divorce
Marrying People of the Book
It is not permissible for a Muslim man to marry an atheist an idol-worshipping woman, etc.
The evidence for that is the verse in which Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“And do not marry Al-Mushrikat (idolatresses) till they believe (worship Allah Alone). And indeed a slave woman who believes is better than a (free) Mushrikah (idolatress), even though she pleases you” [al-Baqarah 2:221]
A mushrikah is an idol-worshipping woman who worships stones, whether from among the Arabs or others.
Muslim woman to marry a non-Muslim man
It is not permissible for a Muslim woman to marry a non-Muslim man from any other religion, whether from among the Jews or Christians, or any other religion.“And give not (your daughters) in marriage to Al-Mushrikun till they believe (in Allah Alone) and verily, a believing slave is better than a (free) Mushrik (idolater), even though he pleases you. Those (Al-Mushrikun) invite you to the Fire, but Allah invites (you) to Paradise and forgiveness by His Leave, and makes His Ayat (proofs, evidence, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) clear to mankind that they may remember.” [al-Baqarah 2:221]
Men Issues
Wet dream & Ghusl
Rights & Ethics
Environmental Ethics in Islam
Ethical Business Practices in Islam
Community and Social Responsibilities
Other Rights
Animal Rights in Islam
Rights of Non-Muslims
Rights of Muslims
Political Rights
Rights of the State
Individual Rights
Inheritance in Islam
- 1- the heir,
- the testator (i.e., deceased)
- what is to be inherited (i.e., the estate)
- Nikah
- Wala
- Nasab
- enslavement
- murder
- difference of religion
- Fard (pl. Fara’id – allocated shares)
- Ta`sib (residual inheritance)
Ritual Purity
The Spiritual Significance of Cleanliness
Handling Impurities and Cleanliness in Islam
How to Make Ghusl for Major Impurity
Tayammum (Dry ablution)
- Say Bismillah.
- Strike the ground once with the palms of the hands
- Wipe the back of the right hand with the palm of the left, and the back of the left hand with the palm of the right.
- Wipe the face with both hands.
Things That Nullify the Wudu (Ablution)
- According to the Hanafi, Shafi’ and Maaliki Madham, the Wudhu will not be nullified But it is recommended to do it.
- The strongest of the statements of the scholars is that touching the wife does not break the wudu unless there is a discharge of sperm. Note : Please be informed that in matters of religious practice, it's acknowledged that certain medical conditions and necessities may exempt individuals from adhering strictly to certain rules, including those related to ritual purification (wudu).
Ghusl (Full Body Ritual Purification)
Doing the obligatory parts of ghusl only, which is making water reach all parts of the body, and includes rinsing the mouth and nose. If a person makes the water reach all parts of his body, by whatever means, then he has removed the major impurity and purified himself properly.
Wudu (Ablution)
How to Make Wudu
With regard to how wudu is to be done, there are two ways; the complete and the acceptable way. Find the details below. 1 – Obligatory parts of wudu, which are as follows:1. Washing the face completely once, which includes rinsing the mouth and nose.
2. Washing the arms up to the elbows , once.
3. Wiping the entire head , including the ears.
4. Washing the feet up to the ankles, once .
What is meant by once in all the above is that the entire part of the body mentioned must be washed thoroughly.1. This must be done in order, so one washes the face first, then the arms, then wipes the head, then washes the feet, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did wudu in this order.
2. This must be done continuously, i.e., the parts of the body must be washed one after the other with no lengthy interruption between washing one part and the next.
These are the obligatory parts of wudu which must be done in order for wudu to be sound. Learn MoreSources of Guidance
The Impact of Knowledge on Personal Development and Community Building
Traditional and Contemporary Islamic Education
The Role of Scholars (Ulama) in Islam
Seeking Knowledge
Jurisprudence
- The Quran
- Summary: The Quran is the primary source of Islamic law.
- Explanation: It contains the divine revelations given to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), providing comprehensive guidance on all aspects of life.
- The SunnahThe Sunnah includes the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It complements the Quran by providing context and elaboration on its teachings, serving as a practical example of how to implement Islamic principles.
- Ijma (Consensus)Ijma refers to the consensus of Islamic scholars on a particular issue. When the scholars of a certain generation agree on a legal ruling, it becomes a binding source of Islamic law, reflecting the collective understanding and application of Sharia.
- Qiyas (Analogical Reasoning)Qiyas involves deriving legal rulings for new situations by comparing them to similar cases in the primary sources. It uses analogy to extend the principles found in the Quran and Sunnah to contemporary issues, ensuring the flexibility and relevance of Islamic law.
- Ijtihad (Independent Juristic Reasoning)Ijtihad is the process of making a scholarly effort to interpret and apply Islamic law. Qualified scholars use their expertise to address new issues by interpreting the primary sources and considering the context.
- Urf (Custom)Urf refers to the customary practices of a community. When these customs do not contradict Islamic principles, they can be considered in legal rulings to ensure the law is relevant to the cultural context.Learn More
Women Issues
Menstruation Dos and Don’ts
Dos | Don'ts |
---|---|
You can relax and take a self-care holiday. | Do not stress due to menstruation; consider it a holiday. |
You can put on nail polish, jewellery or makeup for your husband or within the privacy of your house. | There is no prohibition on wearing good, colorful clothes or gold during menstruation. |
You can enter the kitchen, meet relatives, and go to school/work. | Do not burden yourself with extra work or physical exertion that may cause you harm. |
You can eat comfort food. | There is no need to eat simple or bland food during menstruation, and you are not prohibited from eating meat during menses. |
You can go to weddings, funerals, or any other halal gathering. | It's best to refrain from staying in the mosque or prayer place during menstruation unless necessary. |
You can take a shower and a bath to relieve pain. | Do not neglect your hygiene during menstruation. |
You can laugh, smile, have fun, play games, and live life as normal. | It is highly discouraged for you to fall into despair due to menstruation. |
You can use sanitary pads and other feminine hygiene products. | There is no need to wash your disposable feminine hygiene products after use. |
You can take medication to ease menstruation-related pain after consulting a doctor. | There is no extra reward in suffering through period pain on purpose. |
You can show intimacy, affection, cuddle, and sleep in the same bed with your husband. | Do not have intercourse with your husband during menstruation. |
You can breastfeed your baby. | Do not delay ghusl after becoming pure during prayer time without a valid reason. |
You can learn and preach Islam. | Abstain from offering both obligatory and voluntary salah. |
You can engage in Dhikr. | Do not fast, but make up for the missed fasts later. |
You can send salutations on the Prophet (PBUH). | Divorcing during your menses is discouraged, except in specific cases. |
You can make supplications (Dua). | Avoid performing tawaf around the Ka'bah. |
You can listen to and read the Quran without touching the mushaf (book physically) or from memory or on an electronic device. | Performing tawaf al-wada' (farewell tawaf) during menstruation is not recommended. |
You can marry during your mensturation cycle | |
You can listen to Islamic lectures. | |
You can give charity, monetary or otherwise. | |
You can participate in Hajj and Umrah rituals except for tawaf around the Ka'bah. |