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www.alrahmah.co.uk Ramadan 1436 | June 2015 muslim lifestyle magazine 020 8510 9290 Hackney 148 Lower Clapton Rd, London E5 0QJ 0203475 6515 156 Fourt Avenue, London E12 6DR Manor Park Successfully selling and letting in East London since 2006 www.dimension-estates.co.uk Sale | Lettings | Mangement

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Page 1: Al Rahmah Magazine

www.alrahmah.co.ukRamadan 1436 | June 2015

muslim lifestyle magazine

020 8510 9290

Hackney148 Lower Clapton Rd, London E5 0QJ

0203475 6515156 Fourt Avenue, London E12 6DR

Manor Park

Successfully selling and letting inEast London s ince 2006

www.dimension-estates.co.ukSale | Lettings | Mangement

Page 2: Al Rahmah Magazine

On the cover:

Editor in Chief:Zaid Masud

Deputy Editor:Mansur RazaAnas RazaSadiqur RahmanI. Hussein

Co- ordinator:Mustafa RazaMumina ChoudhuryMizna QuraishiAnisah Quraishi

Advert & Sponsorship:Sadiqur RahmanUmm Sulayman

Designers:Anas RazaAamir RawatTanweer Al-Qarni

Web Editor:Aamir [email protected]

Our Supporters:The Qur’an ProjectThe Muslim Lifestyle ExpoDimension EstatesEat HalalIeat Food

Page 20-21

Gate of Al-RayyaanPage 12-13Giving Iftaar

Page 11

AshabeKahf

Page 16-16

MuslimWomen

Page 22-23

Page 27Gift Vouchers Virtues of

RamadaanPage 5-6-7

Smoking& ShishaPage 10

Al Rahmah Magazine:Published by Imax Design Ltdwww.imax-design.com

Dear Brothers and Sisters,Assalaamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakaatuhu,

Many thanks and gratitude belongs to Allah (s.w.t.), The Lord of all. I ask Allah (s.w.t.) to bless and bestow peace on all His prophets & messengers, their families & all those who are on their path.

We congratulate you on entering this holy month of Ramadan. It is the month of mercy in which we ask Allah to help us fast, pray & deliver duties of worship.

This magazine is named Al-Rahmah, as it illustrates the essence of good characteristics as a muslim lifestyle magazine. Rahmah is of the ethics of Islam, which means compassion, kindness, affection & gentleness.

The meaning of Rahmah is mentioned over 200 times in the Qur’an. However, the word Rahmah is mentioned just over 70 times. It is one of Allah's Attributes -“And your Lord is Most Forgiving, Owner of Mercy...” [Al-Kahf 18:58]

Allah said the Qur’an would give us Hidayah & Rahmah. - “O mankind! There has come to you a good advice from your Lord (i.e. the Qur’an, enjoining all that is good & forbidding all that is evil), & a healing for that which is in your breasts, - a guidance and a mercy (explaining lawful & unlawful things) for the believers” [Yunus 10:57]

Allah sent us Rasool (s.a.w.) as Rahmah for mankind “And we have sent you (O Muhammed) not, but as a mercy for the Alameen (mankind, jinns & all that exists)” [Al-Anbiya’ 21:107]

We have dedicated the first issue for the month of Ramadan. Our goal is to spread the teachings of Islam through this magazine. We aim to instil the culture of Islamic values & ethics by learning about the history of Muslims & their stories, as well as by linking the Muslim communities together.

I also take this opportunity to thank all those who helped us in the success of this first issue.

Please visit our website www.alrahmah.co.uk to explore our inspirational articles & exciting activities. If you would like to make your own contributions & comments please send us an email to: [email protected] Allah give us the tawfiq to fast and perform Qiyam-ul Layl with imaan & akhlaq and accept our ibaadah during this blessed month of Ramadan.

Jazakhallahu Khairun

Zaid Masud RazaEditor in Chief

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Dr Mufti Abdur-Rahman

Page 14

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3 – Allaah has made Laylat al-Qadr in this month, which is better than a thousand months, as Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, We have sent it (this Qur’aan) down in the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree).And what will make you know what the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is?The Night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months (i.e. worshipping Allaah in that night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months, i.e. 83 years and 4 months).Therein descend the angels and the Rooh [Jibreel (Gabriel)] by Allaah’s Permission with all Decrees, (All that night), there is peace (and goodness from Allaah to His believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn” [al-Qadar 97:1-5] “We sent it (this Qur’aan) down on a blessed night [(i.e. the Night of Al-Qadr) in the month of Ramadan — the 9th month of the Islamic calendar]. Verily, We are ever warning [mankind that Our Torment will reach those who disbelieve in Our Oneness of Lordship and in Our Oneness of worship]” [al-Dukhaan 44:3] Allaah has blessed Ramadaan with Laylat al-Qadr. Explaining the great status of this blessed night, Soorat al-Qadr was revealed, and there are many ahaadeeth which also speak of that, such as the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There has come to you Ramadaan, a blessed month which Allaah has enjoined you to fast, during which the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the rebellious devils are chained up. In it there is a night which is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived.”Narrated by al-Nasaa’i, 2106; Ahmad, 8769. classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 999.

The Virtues of RamadaanPraise be to Allaah.

Ramadaan is one of the twelve Arabic months. It is a month which is venerated in the Islamic religion, and it is distinguished from the other months by a number of characteristics and virtues, including the following: 1 – Allaah has made fasting this month the fourth pillar of Islam, as He says (interpretation of the meaning): “The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’aan, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan i.e. is present at his home), he must observe Sawm (fasts) that month…” [al-Baqarah 2:185] and it was narrated in al-Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari, 8; Muslim, 16) from the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Islam is built on five (pillars): the testimony that there is no god except Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah; establishing prayer; paying zakaah; fasting Ramadaan; and Hajj to the House (the Ka’bah).”

2 – Allaah revealed the Qur’aan in this month, as He says in the verse quoted above (interpretation of the meaning): “The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’aan, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong)…” [al-Baqarah 2:185] And Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Verily, We have sent it (this Qur’aan) down in the Night of Al-Qadr (Decree).” [al-Qadr 97:1]

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7 – Fasting Ramadaan is a means of expiation for the sins committed since the previous Ramadaan, so long as one avoids major sins. It was proven in Saheeh Muslim (233) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The five daily prayers, from one Jumu’ah to the next and from one Ramadaan to the next are expiation for (sins committed) in between, so long as you avoid major sins.”

8 – Fasting in Ramadaan is equivalent to fasting ten months, as is indicated by the hadeeth in Saheeh Muslim (1164) narrated from Abu Ayyoob al-Ansaari: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan then follows it with six days of Shawwaal, it will be like fasting for a lifetime.” Ahmad (21906) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan, a month is like ten months, and fasting six days after al-Fitr will complete the year.” 9 – Whoever prays qiyaam in Ramadaan with the imam until he finishes, it will be recorded for him that he spent the whole night in prayer, because of the report narrated by Abu Dawood (1370) and others from the hadeeth of Abu Dharr (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever prays qiyaam with the imam until he finishes, it will be recorded for him that he spent the whole night in prayer.” Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Salaat al-Taraaweeh, p. 15

10 – ‘Umrah in Ramadaan is equivalent to Hajj. Al-Bukhaari (1782) and Muslim (1256) narrated that Ibn ‘Abbaas said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to a woman among the Ansaar, “What kept you from doing Hajj with us?” She said, “We only had two camels that we used for bringing water.” So her husband and son had gone for Hajj on one camel, and he left the other for them to use for bringing water.” He said, “When Ramadaan comes, go for ‘Umrah, for ‘Umrah in Ramadaan is equivalent to Hajj.” According to a report narrated by Muslim, “… is equivalent to doing Hajj with me.”

11 – It is Sunnah to observe i’tikaaf (retreat for the purpose of worship) in Ramadaan, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) always did that, as it was narrated in the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to spend the last ten days of Ramadaan in i’tikaaf until he passed away, then his wives observed i’tikaaf after him.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1922; Muslim, 1172.

12 – It is mustahabb in the sense of being strongly recommended in Ramadaan to study the Qur’aan together and to read it a great deal. You may study the Qur’aan together by reciting it to someone else and by having someone else recite it to you. The evidence that this is mustahabb is the fact that Jibreel used to meet the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) every night in Ramadaan and study the Qur’aan with him. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6; Muslim, 2308. Reading Qur’aaan is mustahabb in general, but more so in Ramadaan.

13 – It is mustahabb in Ramadaan to offer iftaar to those who are fasting, because of the hadeeth of Zayd ibn Khaalid al-Juhani (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever gives iftaar to one who is fasting will have a reward like his, without that detracting from the fasting person’s reward in the slightest.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 807; Ibn Maajah, 1746; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 647.And Allaah knows best.

And Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever spends Laylat al-Qadr in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, will be forgiven his previous sins.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1910; Muslim, 760.

4 – Allaah has made fasting Ramadaan and spending its nights in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward a means of forgiveness of sins, as was proven in al-Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari, 2014; Muslim, 760) from the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah according to which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” And al-Bukhaari (2008) and Muslim (174) also narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever spends the nights of Ramadaan in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” The Muslims are unanimously agreed that it is Sunnah to pray qiyaam at night in Ramadaan. Al-Nawawi said that what is meant by praying qiyaam in Ramadaan is to pray Taraweeh, i.e., one achieves what is meant by qiyaam by praying Taraaweeh.

5 – In this month, Allaah opens the gates of Paradise and closes the gates of Hell, and chains up the devils, as is stated in al-Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari, 1898; Muslim, 1079), from the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah who said that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When Ramadaan comes, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained up.”

6 – Every night Allaah has people whom He redeems from the Fire. Imam Ahmad (5/256) narrated from the hadeeth of Abu Umaamah that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “At every breaking of the fast, Allaah has people whom He redeems.” Al-Mundhiri said: there is nothing wrong with its isnaad; and it was classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 987. Al-Bazzaar (Kashf 962) narrated that Abu Sa’eed said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah has people whom He redeems every day and night – i.e., in Ramadaan – and every Muslim every day and night has a prayer that is answered.”

the Prophet ( ) said: “Whoever fasts Ramadaan out of faith

and in the hope of reward,his previous sins will be forgiven.”

(Al-Bukhaari, Muslim)

References: www.islamqa.info

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HoneyThe benefits of honey don’t just stop at the satisfaction of our taste buds. The powerful healing attributes of honey have long been used to promote health and healing. Both the holy Quran and Hadiths (Prophetic traditions) refer to honey as a healer of disease. In the Quran we read, “And thy Lord taught the bee to build its cells in hills, on trees and in people’s habitations… there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colors, wherein is healing for humankind. Verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought.”

Additionally, in Sahih Bukhari we read that the Prophet, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, said: “Honey is a remedy for every illness and the Quran is a remedy for all illness of the mind, therefore I recommend to you both remedies, the Quran and honey.”

Help available toSmokers during Ramadan

09Page

Help is at hand for local Muslims looking to quit smoking during the holy month of Ramadan.

Ramadan, which this the holiest month of the year in the Islamic calendar during which time practicing Muslims observe a period of fasting during daylight hours. This fast extends to smoking and using other tobacco products such as Shisha.

Sue Weston, Smokefree Warwickshire Coordinator at NHS Warwickshire, said: “At this time of year daylight can last for more than 15 hours and even after this amount of time, the benefits of not smoking will start to be felt. These benefits include blood pressure and pulse returning to normal, nicotine and carbon monoxide levels in the blood reducing by half and oxygen levels in the blood returning to normal.

“For a regular smoker going 15 hours without a cigarette is an achievement in itself and we would encourage local Muslim men and women to take that extra step and experience the full range of health and financial benefits of quitting altogether.”

On the subject of Shisha, Sue added: “Many people believe that shisha is not dangerous and that the water filters out any toxins. They believe that as a result it's a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes and is not as addictive. This couldn’t be more wrong as it is primarily tobacco disguised with a mixture of fruit and herbs and the water does not filter out any of the chemicals that cause cancer and other diseases. Whether you have just started Shisha smoking or have been smoking for years, as with cigarettes, it is never too late to quit.”

“The Warwickshire Stop Smoking Service can offer help and advice on giving up smoking during Ramadan and beyond and I’d encourage anyone celebrating the holy feast to get in touch with us to see how we can help them.”

For more information on the Warwickshire Stop Smoking Service please call

0800 085 2917, text ‘LIFE’ to 80800 or go to www.smokefreewarwickshire.org

References:

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The virtue of giving iftaar to one who is fastingPraise be to Allaah.

The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:

“Whoever gives iftaar to one who is fasting will have a reward like his,without that detracting from the reward of the fasting person in the slightest.”

Narrated by al-Tirmidhi

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It was narrated that Zayd ibn Khaalid al-Juhani said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever gives iftaar to one who is fasting will have a reward like his, without that detracting from the reward of the fasting person in the slightest.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 807; Ibn Maajah, 1746. Classed as saheeh by Ibn Hibaan, 8/216 and by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami, 6415.

Shaykh al-Islam [Ibn Taymiyah] said: What is meant by giving him iftaar is giving him enough to satisfy him. Al-Ikhtiyaaraat, p. 194

The righteous salaf were keen to provide food for others and they thought that this was one of the best of righteous deeds.

One of the salaf said: For me to invite ten of my companions and feed them food that they like is dearer to me than freeing ten of the sons of Ismaa’eel from slavery.

Many of the salaf used to give up their iftaar for others, such as ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him), Dawood al-Taa’i, Maalik ibn Dinar and Ahmad ibn Hanbal. Ibn ‘Umar used only to break his fast with orphans and the poor and needy.

There were among the salaf those who used to offer food to their brothers whilst fasting, and they would sit and serve them, such as al-Hasan and Ibn al-Mubaarak.

Abu al-Siwaar al-‘Adawi said: Men from the tribe of Banu ‘Adiyy used to pray in this mosque and not one of them would break his fast on his own; if they found someone to join them they would eat with him, otherwise they would take their food out to the mosque and eat with the people, and the people would eat with them.

From the ‘ibaadah of providing food for people stem many other acts of worship such as creat-ing love and friendship towards those who are given the food, which is a means of entering Paradise, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “You will not enter Paradise until you truly believe, and you will not truly believe until you love one another.” Narrated by Muslim, 54. It also fosters the practice of sitting with righteous people and seeking reward by helping them to do acts of worship for which they gain strength by eating your food.

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It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Allaah says: “Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except for fasting; it is for Me and I shall reward for it.” Fasting is a shield and when one of you is fasting he avoid sexual relations with his wife and quarreling. If somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, ‘I am fasting.’ By the One in Whose hand is my soul, the unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allaah than the smell of musk. The fasting person will have two moments of joy: one when he breaks his fast, and the other when he meets his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting.’” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1771)

Secondly: It is known that Paradise has many gates, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): “‘Adn (Eden) Paradise (everlasting Gardens), which they shall enter and (also) those who acted righteously from among their fathers, and their wives, and their offspring. And angels shall enter unto them from every gate” [al-Ra’d 13:23]

“And those who kept their duty to their Lord (Al-Muttaqoon – the pious) will be led to Paradise in groups till when they reach it, and its gates will be opened (before their arrival for their reception) and its keepers will say: Salaamun ‘Alaykum (peace be upon you)! You have done well, so enter here to abide therein” [al-Zumar 39:73]

In the saheeh ahaadeeth it says that there are eight gates: It was narrated from Sahl ibn Sa’d (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “In Paradise there are eight gates, among which is a gate called al-Rayyaan, which none will enter but those who fast.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3017).

It was narrated from ‘Ubaadah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever bears witness that there is no god but Allaah alone, with no partner or associate, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, and that ‘Eesa is the slave of Allaah and His Messenger, and a word which Allaah bestowed on Maryam and a spirit created by Him (cf. al-Nisa’ 4:171), and that Paradise is true and Hell is true, will have the right to be admitted by Allaah to Paradise through whichever of the eight gates he wishes, because of his good deeds.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3180; Muslim, 41) One of the bounties that Allaah has bestowed upon this ummah is that He opens all the gates of Paradise during the month of Ramadaan, not just one gate. Whoever says that there is a gate in Paradise called Baab al-Radwaan has to produce evidence for that. It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When Ramadaan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained up.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3035; Muslim 1793)

We ask Allaah to make us among those who will enter Paradise. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.

Those who used to fast will be called from the gate of Al-Rayyaan

Praise be to Allaah. Firstly: Allaah has enjoined upon the Muslims fasting the month of Ramadaan, and He has promised a great reward to those who fast. Because the virtue of fasting is so great, Allaah has not specified the reward for it, rather He said – in a hadeeth qudsi – “… except for fasting, for it is for Me, and I shall reward for it.” The virtues of the month of Ramadaan are many. For example, that which Allaah has promised those who fast, namely the gate of al-Rayyaan. This is the name

which was narrated in the hadeeth whose authenticity is agreed upon. Sahl (may Allaah be pleased with him) said

that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “In Paradise there is a gate called al-Rayyaan, through

which those who used to fast will enter on the Day of Resurrection, and no one but they will enter it. It will be said, ‘Where are those who fasted?’ They will get up, and none will enter it but them. When they have entered, it will be locked, and no one else will enter.” (Al-Bukhaari, 1763; Muslim, 1947).

Among the ahaadeeth which explain the reward for fasting are the following: It was narrated from Abu Salamah that Abu Hurayrah said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and

blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Whoever fasts Ramadaan out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.’” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, al-Eemaan, 37).

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References:

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Make this Ramadan the Best Ramadan You have HadRamadan is a month when a number of changes take place in the world. According to a hadith in Bukhari, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “When Ramadan enters, the doors of Paradise are opened, the doors of Hellfire are closed and the devils are chained up.”

Although we cannot see this happening ourselves, we definitely feel the blessing and the mercy around us. People generally feel more righteous and God-conscious during Ramadan and it is easier for them to give up sins and do good deeds instead. My encouragement is that we try to make this Ramadan better than any Ramadan before it. Rather than just fast as we may have done in our past years, let us consciously fast this year for Allah only. Think of Allah multiple times a day.

For instance, each time you feel thirsty, hungry or tired during the day, and feel the urge to have a drink of water or eat something, do not stop yourself by saying it will break your fast. Although, this is technically true, what we should think is, “I am fasting for Allah, and this is worship and hunger exclusively for the love of Allah. O Allah, accept my fast and make it easy for me. O Allah, make it a source of my freedom from Hellfire, and my receiving Your great rewards and happiness in this world and the Hereafter.” When a person thinks like this it makes the worship less mechanical and more spiritual.

The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Whoever fasts in Ramadan with faith [in Allah] and anticipation [of His attention, blessing, mercy and reward], all his previous sins are forgiven” (Bukhari, Muslim). Therefore, we should really build up our faith and anticipation of what Allah can do for us this year.

When a person connects themselves spiritually to Allah, it will have a profound effect on the rest of the family too, insha Allah. Therefore, we can also encourage our children to correct their motivations for fasting. Having sehri and iftari together is helpful in this regard. Encourage the entire family to engage in at least a few minutes of du’a before each iftar, and to perform two to four rak’as of tahajjud prayer each sehri time followed by a few minutes of du’a. Insha Allah, this should help to create more piety in the house and fill it with blessing and light.

May Allah facilitate his worship for us this Ramadan and accept all worships despite our shortcomings.

Dr Mufti Abdur-Rahman Mangera

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Mention of the Ashabe-Kahf by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him)

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was challenged by the Quraysh of Makkah who did not believe in his message to answer three questions passed onto them by the Jews. One of the questions was, “Who were the youth who disappeared, and how many were they?” The Jews knew that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) would only be able to tell the story if he was indeed a prophet.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) had no clue and said that he would answer them tomorrow, hoping for the answer to be revealed to him through Jibraeel (upon him be peace) but forgetting to say Insha’Allah (if Allah wills). According to one narration, no revelation came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) for 15 days, leading the Quraysh to greatly abuse and revile him.

The answer, however, was eventually revealed to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) in a Surah named after the cave (Al-Kahf) of the sleepers. The Quran revealed the exact story that the Jews knew of, and it answered the questions similarly to the information they had. The Quran confirmed that they slept for 309 years, which the Jews knew of. The Quran however, did not give an exact answer as to how many they were.

The Jews themselves did not know exactly how many there were (whether 3,5 or 7) and were astonished when the Quran gave all the possible numbers they had suspected for the number of sleepers.

Eventually they came to a cave in which they made dua to Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) for ease. They decided to take rest there for a while, leaving the dog near the entrance as a guard. Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) caused them and the dog to sleep there for 309 lunar years.

Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) describes their sleeping in the Glorious Quran in Surah Kahf:

And you would think them awake, while they were asleep. And We turned them to the right and to the left, while their dog stretched his forelegs at the entrance. If you had looked at them, you would have turned from them in flight and been filled by them with terror. [18:18]

The Quran further states that the period of time these sleepers spent in the cave was 300 solar years during which the calendar of their people was changed from solar to lunar and, as a result, the period of their sleep calculated at 309 lunar years. When they woke up, they had no idea they had slept for centuries and thought they had only slept a few hours. When they sent one of them to buy food, the shopkeeper was amazed to see such old coins and the reality of the time they had spent in the cave gradually came to light. The present ruling king, whom some scholars have identified as Tandoosees, was a believer who came on foot to see them and seek their blessings. When these young men died they were buried in the cave along with their dog. The bones of these youth and the dog are visible to see inside.

The Ashabe-Kahf (People of the Cave)This is regarded as the cave in which a group of pious youths (equated with the Christian legend of the ‘Sleepers of Ephesus’) sought refuge from a tyrannical pagan king and in which Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) caused them to sleep for 309 lunar years. Their story is mentioned in the Holy Quran in Surah Kahf.

This cave is located in the suburb of Abu Alanda in Amman, Jordan. At one time a small church was built on top of the cave; this was converted to a masjid (mosque) with the mihrab still being visible above the entrance. Many scholars and historians attribute this to be the cave of the Ashabe-Kahf.

The story of the Ashabe-KahfIn around 250 CE there ruled a Roman king called Daqyanoos (Decius) who would annually hold a gathering dedicated to the worshipping of idols and false gods. Many people would attend, dressed in their best clothing. However, one youth believed in the oneness of Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) and the true teachings of Isa (upon him be peace). He shunned pagan worship and rebelled against the practices that were happening in the society. He attracted another youth and then another and soon formed a small group.

When the king heard of their rebellion he became very angry and issued a command for them to be killed. In order to save their iman (faith) they fled and went into hiding. On their escape route they met a young farmer who owned a dog; they gave him da’wah, he accepted and decided to also join them.

Lesson from the story

The story of the Ashabe-Kahf is a wonderful example of how, despite oppression, truth will always dominate over disbelief. Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) will always make successful those who sincerely believe and act in accordance with their belief.

Apart from Amman in Jordan, the location of the cave is also claimed to be in Turkey. And Allah(Glorified and Exalted is He) knows best.

References:Stories of the Prophets – Ibn Kathir

Wikipedia, The Rough Guide to Jordan.Quran translation:

Sahih International

Page 10: Al Rahmah Magazine

0203 519 9891 | www.sakinah.co.uk

And it is among His signs that He has created for you wives from among yourselves, so that you may find tranquillity in them, and He has created love and kindness between you...” (Qur’an 30:21)

Through my experience of working with Muslims from different backgrounds and age groups, I have observed first-hand the challenges faced by many in finding ‘suitable’ marriage partners. Numerous individuals, from both genders, complain regularly about the difficulties and complexities involved in the search process – especially for divorcees and single mothers!

This is where an online matrimonial service can be extremely useful, and at times even more effective than the other traditional methods. As such, using an online service need not be a last resort in one’s hunt for a suitable spouse.

Islamically, there is nothing wrong in using an online matrimonial service where Muslims are able to search for suitable marriage partners. The condition, however, is that it is done with modesty, decorum and proper observance of Islamic guidelines, and that the service is designed with Islamic principles and ethos in mind. There are indeed some online services in which Islamic principles are forfeited; a Muslim conscious of his faith would be wary of using their services.

Sakinah is an online matrimonial service established – under the guidance of reliable scholars – to specifically counter such flaws, where Muslims can search for potential partners with strict adherence to Islamic principles. I have studied the process of its function, and thus fully support and endorse the services provided. I can also confirm that the Sakinah team are in regular contact with me in relation to how they should operate their services.

Sakinah (which means tranquillity) helps Muslims find suitable marriage partners, so that they may find peace and tranquillity in them. This can only happen by starting the process in a correct Islamic manner, because blessings in marriage are only attained by following the commands of Allah and His beloved Messenger (Allah bless him & give him peace).

Muhammad ibn Adam al-KawthariDirector, Darul Iftaa, UK

Muslim Matrimonial websites,halal or haram?

The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him said: «If a slave dies, his work except three: ongoing charity, or beneficial knowledge, or a

righteous son who calls him». Narrated by Muslim.

If you want to continue deeds after your death you must be able to raise your children in order for them to be a righteous child a key factor is to pay attention to them. This is what the prophet taught us, he said: (Teach your children to pray for seven years, & punish them when they're ten, & separate them in their beds) Narrated by Abu Dawood

Talking with your children is important. They should know Ramadan Allah forgives the wrong things that we do throughout the year of lying and all bad deeds this will encourage your children to fast more often.

1) Fasting is something which the parents should train their children to achieve - who will fast for the first time, and the steps that must be took on by the parents until the ending of the month. However the number of hours your child is fasting should increase everyday for example: if you lecture your child to independently fast on the first day for 4 hours without food or water and in the second day of fasting is 5 hours, and so on and so forth you can help them be used to fasting until the end of the day, and eventually by them selves.

2) Secondly, we must show our children that sharing some of their clothes or some of their stories or some pocket money to donate to the poor who do not have anything is key and reflect the attitude of a true Muslim.

Rewarding your children helps them. You can praise them and show your very proud of them. May Allah protect our kids and bless them eternal happiness.

Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Imam Masjid Al-Risaalah

Name: Sumaya Adam-Dirie

Age: 13

Qura’n: 4 Juz

Future Goals: Pharmacist

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Qura’n: 6 Sura’s

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How to Educate your kids about Ramadan?

Our Future Kids

“Whoever fasts

Ramadan and follows it with

six days from Shawwal it

is as if theyfasted the

entire year.”(Sahih Muslim)

Page 11: Al Rahmah Magazine

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Across1/ Our holy Prophet 2/ Old name of Madinah -Munawarah3/ What is the name the first Prophet?4/ First child accepted Islam

Down5/ The first revelation of The holy Quran (First word)6/ In which city our holy Prophet was born?7/ The Secon Fundemental Principle of Islam8/ The surah (Chapter) that does not start with Bismillah9/ The ninth month of the Islamic calendar .10/ The gate of Jannah for those who fast

Can you find the missing numbers?

How can you get to the Masjid?

Crossword Puzzles

Connect the letters on the box

*Each line must total 40

Page 12: Al Rahmah Magazine

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Moroccan Soup

Ingredients Nutrition1 lb lamb, cut into small cubes1 teaspoon turmeric1 teaspoon pepper1 teaspoon cinnamon1⁄4 teaspoon ginger2 tablespoons butter3⁄4 cup chopped celery & leaves2 onions, chopped1⁄2 cup parsley, & cilantro, chopped & mixed1 (2 lb) can tomatoes, chopped salt3⁄4 cup lentils1 cup chickpeas (canned are fine)1⁄4 cup fine soup noodles2 eggs, beaten with the juice of 1/2 lemon

This soup using chicken and was very pleased with it. It's quite hearty and aside from being delicious it will keep you going for a long time.

DirectionsPut the lamb, spices, butter, celery, onion, and parsley/cilantro in a large soup pot and stir over a low heat for 5 minutes.

Add the tomato pieces, and continue cooking for 10-15 minutes.

Salt lightly.

Add the juice from the tomatoes, 7 cups of water, and the lentils.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, partially cover, and simmer for 2 hours.

When ready to serve, add the chickpeas and noodles and cook for 5 minutes.

Then, with the soup at a steady simmer, stir the lemony eggs into the stock with a long wooden spoon.

Continue stirring slowly, to create long egg strands and to thicken the soup.

Season to taste. ladle into bowls and dust with cinnamon.

Then there's always those little bowls of extra lemon juice for you inveterate sour pusses.

For Muslim Women: Are You Ready for Ramadan?Muslims all over the world start counting down for Ramadan with unprecedented motivation and high hopes to do many things and to get the maximum of this holy month.

However, intentions are not enough!

Muslim women like everyone else have high expectations for the blessed month, as well as more loads and duties.

Achieving what you want in Ramadan is strongly related to time management and realistic plans.

Women have more duties in Ramadan, especially if they are working, however, they still have several opportunities for getting rewards, which makes it even more important for them to

arrange and coordinate diversity of activities only in one month.

Charity is a widely open door in which women can participate by different ways. Cooking food for needy people, collecting money from relatives and friends for charitable reasons, among other activities.

Women have also a very important and crucial role in helping their children understand what Ramadan is all about, and in organizing activities and entertaining activities relevant to the holy month.

Ramadan is considered an excellent opportunity for kids to live 30 days in a comprehensive experience that includes fasting, praying, playing, and helping others either physically or financially.

Time management is not only how you manage your time in Ramadan, but extends to how you manage to decrease your tasks and duties during the holy month.

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Find us on:

www.purplemangocamberwell.co.ukwww.food.comReferences:

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Page 13: Al Rahmah Magazine

The Forgotten Virtues of

Suhur During the Month of Ramadān I am sure we are all accustomed to hearing about the virtues of Ramadān, the Qur’an, fasting, and so on. However, it is rare to hear about the virtues of two important aspects of fasting that we seldom do remember the spiritual significance of: suhūr and iftār.

For many of us, iftār and suhūr is not a spiritual experience, rather it is simply a means to only fill our stomachs. In this brief article I would like to mention some of the important Prophetic traditions related to these two aspects of our fast and their significance. In one Hadīth the Prophet ( ) said:“The one who fasts has two moments of happiness: when he breaks his fast and when he meets his Lord.”[1]

Hacking FastingStay fuller for longerThe blessed month of Ramadhan is upon us again. My first recollection of Ramadhan was during the summer of 1986, alongside Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ during the Mexico World Cup. I vividly recall the excruciatingly long days and intimidatingly short nights…… Now that Ramadhan is during the longest part of the year, I’ve been requested to blog about what to eat in Ramadhan.

Asian diets are notoriously poor all year around! We tend to eat foods with high fat, salt and sugar (!) and with little or no fresh fruit or fibre. In Ramadhan our diets become worse!!!

Ask yourself…

Is Ramadhan an excuse to binge on fried delicacies and sugary drinks?

Aren’t we defeating the object of fasting? Aren’t we aiming to draw closer to the Lord by refraining from food, drink and our passions for the duration of the day?

My top tips for a healthy RamadhanRehydrate, Rehydrate, Rehydrate………….Two thirds of your body is water. During the course of the day, you’ll steadily lose water. It is essential that water loss is topped up between Iftaar and Sahoor. I usually break my fast with a few Madinah dates and a 500ml bottle of water. Between Magrib and Isha/Taraweeh I will have some fruit and some green/black tea. Don’t hydrate too much during Taraweeh!!!! Visits to the water cooler between prayers may lead to awkward conversations about the state of the national football team and/or benefit caps from the Taraweeh shirkers!

Avoid fatty and fried food at Iftaar So you’ve fasted for the whole day and its time to eat. You need to refuel your body with good quality nutrients.

However, our families spend months preparing tantalizing samosas, pastries and all manner of intricate delicacies.

Samosas and other fried food are high in fat and have very little fibre/other key nutrients and thus become difficult to digest. Not ideal for people who need nutrients quickly.

Thus for Iftaar I usually eat simple carbohydrates from fruits. I tend to eat those fruits that have a high water content such as watermelon, oranges and pineapple.

HaloodieFoodie BioTeaching is one of my many passions in life. And when I’m not busy, you’ll find me on the haloodiefoodie.com blog where I indulge in my enthusiasm for good food, cooking and health…

Eat complex carbs for SahoorAfter Taraweeh is the time to eat. Try to eat complex carbohydrates such as wholemeal bread, wholemeal pasta, brown rice, oats, beans, lentils, cereals etc. Another great example particularly is porridge. These super foods are high in fibre and have a low GI rating, which basically mean that they will fill you up and release their energy slowly, which will help you during the long days.

My father is an insulin dependant diabetic, he has brown rice when fasting and reported back that his hunger was managed well for the duration of the fast!

Healthy Sahoor ideas1. Poached eggs with olive oil, pan fried cherry tomatoes and mushrooms served with wholemeal bread.

2. Porridge, be adventurous by trying different flavour combinations such as date and walnut, cranberry and almond, apricot and banana.

3. Wholemeal/Wholegrain Cereals such as muesli, shredded wheat, fruit and fibre, Weetabix etc.

If you’re ‘old school’ and need a more traditional Sahoor meal

1. Wholemeal Chicken pasta

2. Lentils and brown rice

3. Chicken or meat curry with brown rice or wholemeal pitta/chapatti (rotis)

I hope you found the blog informative, I hope you have a enjoyable and spiritual Ramadhan. Make dua me and for all of humanity, especially at the time of Iftaar, don’t get too distracted by those dainty little triangular treats!!

Keep a light stomach for TaraweehThe summer nights are very short and Taraweeh is only an hour after Iftaar. In order to concentrate for the Taraweeh prayer one must keep a light stomach. How many of us would attempt eating to a state of repletion and then going for a run! www.thecim.org.uk

Irrelevant Islam?My greatest worry is Islam will be seen as irrelevant. As the world changes rapidly, new questions emerge in all walks of life which have never arisen before. These are varied and complex, such as:

- Finance: What does a viable and ethical lending system look like?- Economics: How do we achieve unemployment and manage fiscal policies in an Islamic, ethical model?- Politics: How do Muslims engage in a political system where certain components differ from our own ideals?- Social care: How do we develop an islamically ethical method to search for spouses in the face of an increasingly globalised world & a breakdown of traditional communities ... etc

Our scholarship has never been shy in dealing with the most difficult of questions. From the earliest days of Islam, our scholars developed mechanisms to guide to the general public through the turbulent seas of life.

But as the world moves into post modernity and the Muslim world stagnates, our support for scholarship dwindles. Muslim institutions are no longer the leading centres of education in the world, and little support is given to our scholars struggling in these fields. As we neglect our scholarship, it begins to stagnate and collectively we struggle to understand the contemporary problems we face today. Subsequently, the lay folk no longer see religion as the vehicle to answer their ethical dilemmas. Faith becomes confined to the four walls of a mosque, left behind by the people as they encounter questions in medicine, banking, parenting and all other walks of life. Islam is no longer relevant to people as it is no longer adequate for their needs...

The Centre for Islam and Medicine (CIM) is a new initiative set up to tackle this very problem. We are beginning by focusing on medicine, establishing the first UK institution to focus specifically on ethical issues within medicine. We want to develop a framework to answer the new and challenging questions, and empower our scholars to work in addressing these issues. It is the first step towards the intellectual revival of our faith, and will serve doctors, patients, scholars and all those who ever have any interaction with medicine. Examples of such commons scenarios include:

- How do we know when a person is really dead? - How do we know when the soul leaves the body?- How do we view IVF in Islam?- What is the moral status of Organ donation in Islam?- Is depression a mental or spiritual problem?

To find out more about our work and to support us financially, visit www.thecim.org.uk. Help us write the next chapter in the Muslim narrative this Ramadan and revive the rich intellectual tradition of our faith.

Page 14: Al Rahmah Magazine

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6 Tips to Help You Fast From Your Phone this Ramadan

Phones! Every has one and many of us simply can’t live without them. Phones have come a long way and they now allow us to access tons of information from our

finger tips. Our phones are constantly pinging due to notifications from email clients, social media apps, news apps, games and instant messaging apps etc. In the blessed

month of Ramadan, we mustn’t let our phones distract us, let’s use this month to get closer to Allah. These 6 tips will help you ‘fast’ from your phones this Ramadan.

1.Turn off Notifications

2. Leave WhatsApp Groups

3. Leave Your Phone at home

4. Activate Aeroplane Mode

5. Pick up a Mushaf

6. Go retro

Our time in Ramadan is simply too precious to be wasted by checking notifications for the various apps that we have. If you use your phone for work purposes or other important things, not checking your emails may not be an option but what you can do is limit checking. Maybe assign a portion of your day (around 10-15 minutes) to check all your emails and notifications - that way you won’t miss anything important and you won’t have to constantly check every email as they come in.

As for notifications from instant messaging apps, turn them off! Or at least turn off all group notifications and leave on notifications from individuals. This means if someone wants to send you an important message, you’ll see it.

Let’s face it, we’re all probably in so many WhatsApp groups that simply are a waste of time where messages are constantly being sent throughout the day. Go through all the groups in which you have been added to and leave those groups which you think are of no benefit. You won’t regret it, trust me.

Yes, we’ve all done it, we’ve rushed out of our homes only to realise after a short while that we’ve left our phones at home. A feeling of loss and agitation arises – what if someone is trying to call me? What are my friends talking about on WhatsApp? How will I check how many likes my photo of today’s iftar is getting?

The above may well be signs that we are addicted to our phones but the best way to beat an addiction is to just let go of that addiction. One way to do so is that when you go to the Mosque for Taraweeh prayers, leave your phone at home so you can focus during the prayers. During Taraweeh, you’ll see many people checking their phones after every 4 rakats when in fact this time should be used for remembering Allah, reciting adhkar and salawat upon the prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). If we leave our phones at home, we will be saved from being distracted during Taraweeh.

If leaving your phone at home is too difficult then try this…phones have an ‘aeroplane’ mode feature which disables the phone from incoming & outgoing communications. With the feature enabled, no phone calls or texts is received and the internet is disabled. The aeroplane mode is a nifty feature which will allow you to temporary disable your phone without having to power off the entire phone. By disabling certain features on the phone, you can guarantee distraction-free periods in the day.

There are many apps available on the various app stores on which we can read the Qur’an. They are great for when we are out and when we don’t have access to a copy of the Qur’an. But if we’re in the Masjid and there are Mushafs (copies of the Qur’an) available, we should read from them. There is a special barakah that is attained from reading the Qur’an on paper and by reading on the phone, we might get distracted by constant notifications popping up (if we haven’t already disabled them).

If you’re feeling brave and want to go the extra mile, go retro. Many of us probably still have our old phones hidden away in a draw somewhere begging to be loved once again. Going retro will mean you’ll only have access to basic functions such as phone calls and texts. But how will you live without the internet and all those apps? Well, before the arrival of internet-enabled smart phones people got on just fine. And the best part? They last for days without needing to find a charger.

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Eat Real Food, Not Processed and Junk Foods

Sure, processed foods can seem convenient, but they're usually filled with unhealthy things like high-fructose corn syrup, MSG (to enhance flavor), lots of sodium and typically all the wrong heart-clogging oils. If you're in a hurry, there are healthy and halal-convenient options that are particularly good for breaking the fast, so get to know the halal food businesses that make and serve them (see my top picks at the end of this article).

Junk foods like chips, candies, and more are basically void of nutrients and should not be used as a side dish (believe me, I've seen it before). How will you have any energy to get you through a long day of fasting and long night of prayer if your food gives you nothing in return for eating it? Instead, shop for locally produced fruits and veggies from farmers markets and grocery stores, which are now following the trend of sourcing ingredients from local vendors. Because of a higher demand for such goods, the prices are finally coming down somewhat. Furthermore, when you eat food that is wholesome and packed with nutrition, you'll feel more satisfied. In fact, you may even find yourself needing to eat less of it than filler foods that hardly satisfy the stomach and make you crave more and more of them.

Avoid "White" Foods

White foods (i.e., white bread, white rice, white sugar, etc.) can fall into some of the above categories, but they're worth the mention for what not to eat. White breads are made from white flour, which is processed and stripped of the nutrition that should be in bread and the same goes for rice and even the type of sugar you use. Instead, choose breads from whole grains and organic brown rice (even basmati). Surprisingly, they don't have to break the bank, either, since much of this is available in bulk at quality grocers like Whole Foods.

Avoid Fried & Sugary FoodsIn an effort not to spoil any cultural traditions in Ramadan foods, I'm not advocating that everyone forgo their favorite samosas or empanadas at I12ftar. I love them, too! But, I do know that it's possible to bake them instead of fry, so consider that an option. Fried foods are heavy in oil and that makes them harder to digest, especially when they're the first foods to be eaten after a long fast.

Let's save the sweets for 'Eid ul Fitr (the celebration that comes after the month of fasting) and try to hold off on as many desserts as possible to avoid any sugar crashes later in the day. If you must have something sweet, make it natural -- use real honey or natural raw cane sugar (turbinado) in your recipes, or eat fruits that are a bit more on the sweet side to satisfy the craving... naturally.

Healthy Eating During a Ramadan

“Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (Radi Allahu ‘anhu) narrates that Rasulullah ( ) said:‘Was it not for my fear of imposing a difficulty on my Ummah I would have ordered that the Miswak be used for every Salaat, and delay in Ishaa prayer ‘.” (Bukhari)

“Ibn Umar (Radi Allahu ‘anhu) narrates that the Messenger of Allah ( ) said:‘Make a regular practice of the Miswaak, for verily, it is healthy for the mouth and it is a Pleasure for the Creator (i.e. Allah is pleased with the Muslim who uses the Miswaak)’.” (Bukhari)

Hadhrat Ayesha (Radi Allahu ‘anha) narrates that Rasulullah( ) said:The reward of Salaah (Prayers) is multiplied 70 times if Miswaak was used before it.

The importanceof Miswak

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Lesson from the story

The story of the Ashabe-Kahf is a wonderful example of how, despite oppression, truth will always dominate over disbelief. Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He) will always make successful those who sincerely believe and act in accordance with their belief.

Apart from Amman in Jordan, the location of the cave is also claimed to be in Turkey. And Allah(Glorified and Exalted is He) knows best.

Page 16: Al Rahmah Magazine

PAY, PURIFY, PROSPERAND PROTECT

Zakat is a pillar of Islam, its regular payment being the single most important act in the life of a Muslim after the five daily prayers.It is symbolic that the word “Zakat” comes from an Arabic root word that has connotations both of purification as well as growth. We all know the famous saying of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that, “Charity does not decrease wealth.” Furthermore God says, “…and that which you give in Zakat, seeking the Countenance of God, (will increase): those are the ones who will have their recompense multiplied.” (Chapter30, ar-Rum, Verse 39).

So if and when you pay your Zakat this Ramadan, remember that you are not only completing the most important pillar in Islam after the five daily prayers; you are also engaging in a beautiful act of purification.

Moreover, you should take the opportunity to fulfil the rights of the poor and needy in the streets & neighbourhoods around you, right here in the UK. Poverty here may have a completely different look and feel to what we are used to seeing on charity adverts & on TV screens, but it is increasingly prevalent & is eating away at the fabric that binds our community.

Articles across the mainstream press in recent times inform us that the demand for foodbanks is increasing at an alarming rate with over three million households expected to experience food poverty in the next few years.

Who will take responsibility to house the homeless Muslim women on the streets of London, Birmingham and Manchester? Who will protect those who end up here abandoned or without any contacts and with no recourse to public funds? Who is looking after new Muslims who are disowned by their own families?

The majority of the scholars of Islam agree that when one intends to pay Zakat, then priority should be given to one’s own neighbourhood. This is based largely on the Prophetic tradition, narrated by Ibn Abbas as follows, ‘When the Prophet sent Mu’adh to Yemen, he said to him, “You are going to a nation from the people of the Scripture…tell them that Allah has enjoined on them Zakat of their properties and it is to be taken from the rich among them and given to the poor among them…”’

The Prophet specifically instructed his companion Mu’adh to distribute the Zakat of Yemen within Yemen, not to send it anywhere else.

To learn more about how you can put your Zakat into action on your doorstep visit www.nzf.org.uk, or call 020 8902 1180 to donate today.

Pay your Zakat

Purify your wealth

Prosper in all your affairs

Protect those who are in need on your doorstep

For too long we haveneglected Muslims whoare struggling to makeends meet in the verycountry in which we live.Let us not forget themthis Ramadan!

Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan