Winds of Knowledge

Author: Anjem Choudary

The deployment and role of Prince Harry in Afghanistan fighting against the Taleban is a cause of shame for Britain and its Royal Family. Afghanistan is Muslim land, which is currently being occupied by foreign forces, namely the Americans and British, in order to further their foreign policies of dictating how Muslims should live their lives i.e. according to Western ‘Values’ and in order to secure Western economic, strategic and military interests in the region. The crimes committed by the British and Americans in Afghanistan have included carpet bombing innocent men, women and children with B52 bombers soon after 9/11 and the use of weapons of mass destruction leading to the murder of hundreds of thousands of Muslims.

After changing their mind about sending Harry to participate in the atrocities against Muslims in Iraq the Ministry of Defence eventually decided to send this representative of the Queen and her Muslim-hating family to Afghanistan where he has already ordered bombing raids against Muslims and has even been filmed firing at them. The excuse that he is a soldier and is keen to do his job is utter rubbish. Many real men before him have refused to engage in wars which they objected to on the grounds of conscience whereas in contrast Harry has shown himself to be overly keen to reach Muslim land where he can co-operate in killing Muslims and continuing the occupation.

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are fought between Muslims and non-Muslims, where the non-Muslims (i.e. the UK and US and their allies) pretend that they want to establish ‘democracy’ and ‘freedom’ and eradicate ‘terrorism’ but in reality want to ensure Islamic law i.e. the Shari’ah is not implemented and are therefore trying to eradicate Islam. In the war effort the non-Muslims also feel that there are no boundaries when it comes to violating the sanctity of Muslim life, honour and wealth, hence the torture and inhumane treatment in Guantanamo Bay and in Abu Guraib and the numerous draconian laws which have been introduced in order to try to silence any opposition to the fascist policies of the non-Muslim camp back home.

To cover up Harry’s participation as ‘doing his job’ and to refer to him as ‘brave’ is absurd when you consider the list of atrocities which have been committed against Muslims in Afghanistan and which continue to be committed. Let us remind ourselves and Harry of the reality of the Afghanistan occupation:

Among those murdered by the British army in Afghanistan is an 8 year-old girl called Hanan Saleh Matrud, an eyewitness said that Hanan was killed when a British soldier aimed and fired a shot at her from around 60 meters away. Moreover from the limited press reports that we have we know that recently the United States and NATO have stepped up air attacks, which are notoriously inaccurate and carry a large toll for Afghan men, women and children on the ground.

Tens of thousands of Muslims have been killed in Afghanistan simply because of the US bombardment which includes the use of fuel-air explosives (FAE), cluster bombs, bunker-busting bombs and carpet-bombing. - these things wipe out complete areas. A U.S. officer aboard the US aircraft carrier, Carl Vinson has described the use of 2,000 lb cluster bombs dropped by B-52 bombers as follows ‘A 2,000 lb. bomb, no matter where you drop it, is a significant emotional event for anyone within a square mile.’

The British Royal family like to portray themselves as ‘defenders of the faith’ and apolitical but the example of Harry proves yet again that they are with the British government every step of the way in the crimes they commit and the war they are engaged in against Muslims, just like their ancestors who sent crusaders to occupy Jerusalem and murder Muslims in the past. This, despite the fact that many of their own ‘subjects’ which they claim to represent were demonstrating against the war on the streets in London and other major British cities.

The film crews which followed Harry in Afghanistan and his prompt return suggests that there is an element of attempting to bolster the image of this heir to the British throne as patriotic, brave and courageous however the reality of Afghanistan and the atrocities being committed there show this to be a grave miscalculation. Prince Harry must now realise that Afghanistan is not a village north of Birmingham which he was visiting but rather Muslim land under illegal occupation.

“Truly, the Muttaqun (the pious and righteous persons) will be amidst Gardens and water-springs (Jannah). (It will be said to them): `Enter therein (Jannah), in peace and security.’ And We shall remove from their breasts any deep feeling of bitterness (that they may have). (So they will be like) brothers facing each other on thrones. No sense of fatigue shall touch them, nor shall they (ever) be asked to leave it.”
(15:45-48)

“(It will be said to the believers of Islamic Monotheism): `My slaves! No fear shall be on you this Day, nor shall you grieve. (You) who believed in Our Ayat (proofs, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) and were Muslims (i.e., who submit totally to Allah’s Will, and believe in the Oneness of Allah). Enter Jannah, you and your wives, in happiness.’ Trays of gold and cups will be passed round them; (there will be) therein all that inner-selves could desire, and all that eyes could delight in and you will abide therein forever. This is the Jannah which you have been made to inherit because of your deeds which you used to do (in the life of the world). Therein for you will be fruits in plenty, of which you will eat (as you desire).”
(43:68-73)

“Verily, the Muttaqun (the pious), will be in place of security (Jannah). Among Gardens and springs. Dressed in fine silk and (also) in thick silk, facing each other. So (it will be). And We shall marry them to Hur (fair females) with wide, lovely eyes. They will call therein for every kind of fruit in peace and security. They will never taste death therein except the first death (of this world), and He will save them from the torment of the blazing Fire. As a bounty from your Rubb! That will be the supreme success!”
(44:51-57)

“Verily, Al-Abrar (the pious and righteous) will be in Delight (Jannah). On thrones, looking (at all things). You will recognise in their faces the brightness of delight. They will be given to drink of pure sealed wine. The last thereof (that wine) will be the smell of musk, and for this let (all) those strive who want to strive (i.e., hasten earnestly to the obedience of Allah). It (that wine) will be mixed with Tasnim. A spring whereof drink those nearest to Allah.”
(83:22-28)

“Verily, those who believe and do deeds of righteousness, their Rubb will guide them through their Faith; under them will flow rivers in the Gardens of Delight (Jannah). Their way of request therein will be Subhanaka Allahumma (Glory to You, O Allah!) and Salam (peace, safety from evil) will be their greetings therein (Jannah)! and the close of their request will be: Al-hamdu lillahi Rabbil-`Alamin [All the praises and thanks are to Allah, the Rubb of `Alamin (mankind, jinn and all that exists)].”
(10:9,10)

“The inhabitants of Jannah will eat and drink therein, but they will not have to pass excrement, to blow their noses or to urinate. Their food will be digested producing belch which will give out a smell like that of musk. They will be inspired to declare the freedom of Allah from imperfection and proclaim His Greatness as easily as you breathe.”
[Muslim].

“Allah, SWT, has said: `I have prepared for my righteous slaves what no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and the mind of no man has conceived.’
[Bukhari]

“The first group (of people) to enter Jannah will be shining like the moon on a full-moon night. Then will come those who follow them who will be like the most shining planet in the sky. They will not stand in need of urinating or relieving of nature or of spitting or blowing their noses. Their combs will be of gold and their sweat will smell like musk; in their censers the aloes-wood will be used. Their wives will be large eyed maidens. All men will be alike in the form of their father `Adam, sixty cubits tall.”

Another narration is: The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “Their utensils will be of gold, their perspiration will smell like musk; everyone of them will have two wives; the marrow of the bones of the wives’ legs will be seen through the flesh out of excessive beauty. They (i.e., the people of Jannah) will neither have difference, nor enmity (hatred) amongst themselves; their hearts will be as if one heart, and they will be glorifying Allah in the morning and in the afternoon.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

“Musa (Moses) (SAW) asked his Rubb: `Who amongst the inhabitants of Jannah will be the lowest in rank?’ He said: `It will be a person who will be admitted into Jannah last of all when all the dwellers of Jannah have entered Jannah. It will be said to him: Enter Jannah. But he will say: O my Rubb! How should I enter while the people have settled in their apartments and taken their shares? It will be said to him: Will you be satisfied and pleased if you have a kingdom like that of a monarch of the world? He will say: I will be content, my Rubb. Allah will say: For you is that, and like that and like that and like that and like that. He will say at the fifth time: I am well-pleased, my Rubb. Allah will say: It is for you and ten times more like it. You will have whatever your soul desires and whatever your eyes could delight in. He will say: I am well-pleased, my Rubb.’ Musa (SAW) said: `Who will be of the highest rank in Jannah.’ Allah said: `They are those whom I chose and I established their honour with My Own Hand. I attest with My Seal that they will be blessed with such bounties as no eye has seen, no ear has heard and no human mind has perceived.”’
[Muslim].

“I know of the last of the inhabitants of the Hell to be taken out from there and the last one to enter Jannah. He is a man who will come out of the Fire, crawling on all fours. Allah, the Rubb of glory and honour will say to him: `Go and enter Jannah.’ He will go to it and think that it is full up. He will then come back and say: `O my Rubb, it is full up.’ Allah will say to him: `Go and enter Jannah.’ He will again go to it and think that it is full up. So he will turn back. Allah will again say: `Go and enter Jannah. For you have what is equal to ten times the world.’ He will say: `Are You making fun of me while You are the King?” At this I (i.e., the narrator) saw the Messenger of Allah (SAW) laugh till his premolars were visible and he said, “Such man will be the last dweller of Jannah in its lowest rank.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

“In Jannah the believer will have a tent made of a single hollowed pearl of which the length will be sixty miles in the sky. The believer will have his wives with him and he will visit them and they will not be able to see one another.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

“There is a tree in Jannah that is so huge that if a rider of a swift horse has to cover its distance from one end to another in one hundred years, he will not be able to do so.”

Another narration from Abu Hurairah (RA) is: The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, “A rider will not be able to cross its (the tree’s) shade even after travelling for one hundred years.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

“The dwellers of Jannah will look at those in the upper abodes above them as you look at a shining star which remains in the eastern or western horizon; such will be the difference in superiority which some of them have over others.” The Messenger of Allah (SAW) was asked: “Will those be the dwellings of the Prophets which no one else will be able to reach?” He (SAW) replied, “Yes, but by Him in Whose Hand my soul is! men who believed in Allah and acknowledged the truthfulness of the Messengers will reach them.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

“A space in Jannah equal to the distance between the middle and the end of a bow will be better than all that upon which the sun rises and sets.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

“In Jannah there is a market to which the people will come every Friday. The northern wind will blow and shower fragrance on their faces and clothes and, consequently, it will enhance their beauty and loveliness. They will then return to their wives who will also have increased in their beauty and loveliness, and their families will say to them: `We swear by Allah that you have been increased in beauty and loveliness since leaving us.’ Thereupon they will reply: `We swear by Allah that you have also been increased in beauty and loveliness since we left you.”’
[Muslim].

“When the dwellers of Jannah enter Jannah, an announcer will call: (You have a promise from Allah that) you will live therein and you will never die; you will stay healthy therein and you will never fall ill; you will stay young and you will never become old; you will be under a constant bliss and you will never feel miserable.”
[Muslim].

“The lowest place of any of you in Jannah will be that Allah will tell him to express his wish. He will wish and wish again. Allah will then ask him: `Have you expressed your wish?’ He will answer: `Yes, I have.’ Allah will say: `You will have what you have wished for and the like thereof along with it.”’
[Muslim].

“Allah, the Rubb of honour and glory, will say to the inhabitants of Jannah: `O inhabitants of Jannah!’ They will respond: `Here we are! At Your service, O our Rubb. All good is in Your Hand!’ He will ask them: `Are you pleased?’ They will reply: `Why should we not be pleased, O Rubb, when You have given us what You have not given to any of Your creatures?’ Allah will say: `Shall I not give you something better than that?’ They will ask: `O Rubb! What can be better than that?’ Allah will say: `I shall bestow My Pleasure upon you and I shall never be displeased with you.”’
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Jarir bin `Abdullah (RA) reported: We were sitting with the Messenger of Allah (SAW) when he looked at the full moon and observed, “You shall see your Rubb in the Hereafter as you are seeing this moon; and you will not feel the slightest inconvenience in seeing Him.”
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

“When the inhabitants of Jannah enter Jannah, Allah, the Glorious and Exalted, will say to them: `Do you wish me to give you anything more?’ They will reply: `Have You not made our faces bright? Have You not brought us into Jannah and delivered us from the Hell?’ And Allah will remove the Veil. The (dwellers of Jannah) will feel that they have not been awarded anything dearer to them than looking at their Rubb.”
[Muslim].

As Muslims we have been ordered to obey Allaah and His Messenger in all spheres of life from the age of puberty till the day we are rested in our graves and as we live our lives many of us indulge in sin and disobedience to Allaah. Many people commit sins of various levels, knowingly and unknowingly. But due to this shortcoming people fall into despair and become extremely pessimistic by giving up in thinking that they may not be forgiven even though Allaah has legislated repentance upon his believing slaves.

Repentance means turning back from disobeying Allaah to obeying Him. The importance of repentance is emphasised in the saying of the Prophet:

“If you did not commit sins, Allaah would have taken you out existence and replace you by another people, who would commit sins, ask Allah’s forgiveness and He would forgive them.”
[Saheeh Muslim]

Repentance is beloved to Allaah and also a means to purify ones self, as He says:

“Verily, Allaah loves those who repent and those who purify them selves.”
[Al-Baqarah: 222]

Repentance is also an obligation on every believer as Allaah says:

“O you who believe! Turn to Allaah in sincere repentance!”
[At-Tahreem: 8]

Repentance is from the means of attaining success as Allaah says:

“And O believers, all of you, repent to Allaah in order that you may be successful.”
[An-Noor: 31]

Success is when someone gets what he is looking for and is saved from what he is running from.

“O people, repent to your Lord, for verily I seek forgiveness from Allah and repent to him more than seventy times in a day.”
[Saheeh Bukharee]

“I seek forgiveness one hundred times in a day.”
[Saheeh Muslim]

• Conditions of Repentance

Sincere repentance must meet four conditions (in order to be accepted), which are:

1. Sincerity to Allaah: This is done by the person doing it sincerely for the sake of Allaah (alone) and seeking His reward and salvation from His punishment.

2. Remorse: for the sin that was committed, such that he is sad he did it and wishes he had never done it.

3. Ceasing: to commit the sin immediately. If the sin was against Allaah, then he should (1) stop doing it if it was an unlawful act, or (2) hasten to do it if it was an obligation that he abandoned doing. And if the sin was against a created being (such as humans), then he should hasten to free himself from it, whether by returning it back to him or seeking his forgiveness and pardon.

4. Determination: to not go back to doing that sin again in the future.

An important factor in seeking repentance is that the doors of repentance will be of no avail at the time of death as in the example of Fir’awn and the other time when seeking repentance is pointless is when Allaah by his infinite power allows the sun to rise from the west as assign of the Hour.

Ever-since the attacks on the World Trade Centres in 2001, George Bush and his allies have succeeded in convincing the world to believe that reality has given birth to a new era. The era being the war between the world itself and the terrorists.

It is indeed about time mankind woke up to see for themselves what this war is based on. Is it really based on granting the people justice, by riding the ‘terrorists’ off the face of the earth? Or is it based upon eradicating the word of truth from its core?

My dear brothers and sisters, we must realise that this war includes you and I. We as Muslims are part of the clash between the truth and falsehood! From history we can see that there will always be this clash, there will always be this war until yawmul qiyaamah, therefore we must stand and follow the footsteps of the anbiyah and the saaliheen.

Unfortunately the masses have openly accepted the claims of the shayateen. Which leave only a minority convinced that they are indeed liars.

Oh Muslims! Do not be fooled into thinking that they are at war with the ‘terrorists’ only; know that they are by fact at war with a specific type of people, who carry a special identity; The identity of La Ilaaha Illallah.

This is an identity which even if the whole world was to gather upon it, they would not be able to harm it. As we have the example of Ibraheem (AS), how he on his own was a threat to the whole of society, and it was because of the tawheed did they plot to kill him. When Ibraheem (AS) was thrown into the fire, the people looked in surprise –how was it possible for him to be amidst the flames yet alive, without a single burn?!

Another example is that of Bilal (RA). The man who was the slave of Umayyah ibn Khalaf. When Bilal declared his shahadah, it became clear to the people that although he (Bilal) was tortured heavily in the desert, his master was now the slave and Bilal himself was the master. This was simply due to the fact that Umayyah felt jeopardized by Bilal. He found it hard to hear the words of ‘Ahadun ahad, Ahadun Ahad’ released from his slaves mouth.

And we must not forget the example of the Messenger Muhammad (SAW), when he called the people of Makkah and asked them ‘If I told you behind me is a strong army coming to invade you, would you believe me?’. At this moment in time, everyone declared ‘yes’ and that Muhammad (SAW) always spoke the truth. But when Muhammad (SAW) continued, and called them to adopt the kalimatul Laa ilaaha illallah, the identity of the Muslim, the people turned back, and began to attack rasoolallah. They began to label him as an extremist, majnoon, fanatic and even a terrorist – just like the labels people use today.

There are many lessons we can derive from such examples. A lesson of starting off weak, and ending in the position of the complete opposite; and not to forget the lesson of the hardship one must go through in order to be a carrier of such a superior identity.

Oh Muslims! We must accept and realise the fact that the whole world has gathered against us, and we on the other hand are on our own. Remember, that as Muslims we have nothing to do with the dunya (world) as the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said:

“Be in this world as if you are a stranger or a traveller passing by”

Therefore do not fail yourselves by claiming to be part of the world; you on earth are just like a messenger – here to carry the message to the naive, weak and dumb and then leave after your mission has come to an end.

So my dear brothers and sisters! It is indeed the identity we carry which they are a war with – not the ‘terrorists’, Al Qaeedha, the Talibaan or the Mujahideen as they claim. Rather they are at war with anyone who declares their walaa towards the identity of the anbiyaah, the saaliheen, the saabireen, the shuhudhaa, the sahaabah and etc.

Ask yourselves, was it the talibaan who wore the nikabs when Jack Straw called for its ban? Was it Bin Laden who wore the Hijaab when they called for its ban? - we all know as a matter of fact that it was you and I who wore the Nikaab and Hijaab, it was you and I who grew our beards and were refused our jobs and it was you and I who were murdered by the kufaar whilst we rested at our homes.

The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said:

“The Muslim ummah is like one body; When one part of it gets hurt, the whole body feels the pain.”

This means, that when your sister Faathima in Abu Ghraib prison was raped, it was YOU who was raped, and when your brother was tortured, it was YOU who was tortured. For this reason oh Muslims – when they declare war upon your brothers, know that they have declared war upon you.

To conclude, the only reason why they have declared this war, is due to the mere fact that we hold the very same identity as Ibraheem (AS), as Bilal (RA) and as the Messenger Muhammad (SAW).

And to end this message oh brothers and sisters, remember that every Muslim is on the frontier of Islaam, so do not let the Kufaar attack your deen from your side!

Your sister is Islaam
Umm Sawtul Haq

The Muslim (submitter) should never make Jannah (Paradise) his only goal in life. Verily, the consequence of doing such an action will result in individuals no longer being concerned with whether or not their Lord is pleased with them. Instead, they will always be concerned with and dream about entering Paradise rather than thinking about if they are really eligible for it or not, and what they have done to deserve it.

The only ghaayah (aim and target) of a Muslim should be to seek the pleasure of Allah, whilst hoping to be rewarded by his Lord (with Paradise) for doing so. Thus, Paradise is not the sole objective in his life; rather, it is seeking the pleasure of Allah.

However, this Paradise which we are speaking of requires a huge amount of sacrifice and willpower, and this has been confirmed by the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) who said in a famous hadeeth:

“When Allah created paradise and hell, he sent Jibreel (Gabriel) to paradise, saying: ‘Go and look at it and the things I have prepared therein for its inhabitants.’ So he went and looked at it and at what Allah had prepared therein for its inhabitants. He then came back and said: ‘By your glory, whosoever will hear of it will long to enter it.’ So he ordered that it be surrounded by forms of hardship, and said to Jibreel: ‘Go back and look at what I have prepared therein for its inhabitants.’ So he went back and found that it was surrounded by forms of hardship. Then he came back and said: ‘By your glory, I fear that no-one will enter it.’

Then he sent him to the fire of hell saying, ‘Go and look at it and what I have prepared therein for its inhabitants.’ So he looked at it and saw that it was in layers, one above the other. Then he came back and said: ‘By your glory, whoever hears of it will never try to enter it.’ So he ordered that it be surrounded by passions and desires, and said: ‘Go and see what I have prepared therein for its inhabitants.’ So he went and looked at it, then came back and said, ‘by your glory, I fear that no-one will escape from entering it.’” (Muslim, Abu Daawood and Imaam Ahmad)

And the Messenger of Allah (SAW) also said:

حجبت النار بالشهوات، وحجبت الجنة بالمكاره

“The Fire is surrounded by shahawaat [desires], and paradise is surrounded by hardship.” (Al-Bukhaari and Muslim)

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, after knowing these ahaadeeth how can we expect the road to Jannah to be simple, easy and test free? We know very well that the only way to please Allah (SWT) and enter Paradise is by following the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his Companions, yet how similar is our life to theirs?

The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his Companions were extradited from their homeland, mocked at, tortured, ridiculed, boycotted, killed, slandered and attacked - how much of this do we suffer? The moment we lose a bit of wealth, are shouted at by our parents, are labelled by the Kuffaar or face a bit of criticism from so-called Muslims, we completely give up our da’wah, ‘aqeedah and zeal to work for Allah’s Deen.

It is vital for us to understand this concept properly in order for us to remain steadfast and firm in the Deen. Allah (SWT) will always test the believers; sometimes He may test us through our families or wealth, and other times He may test us with the Kuffaar, munaafiqeen, deviant Muslims or even with our close friends. This is a promise from Almighty Allah (SWT); therefore, we should always be expecting it.

Dear Muslims, never lose hope in your Lord. Always remember that whatever test you face, the Sahaabah were faced with much worse scenarios. Ibn Taymiyyah, Abu Haneefah, Ahmad bin Hanbal and many other great ‘ulamaa (scholars) were put behind bars, but they never compromised their call. ‘Ammaar bin Yaasir (RA) witnessed by his own eyes the torture and killing of his mother; Hamzah was mutilated; Bilaal was tortured; Abu Bakr was beaten to near death; ‘Uthmaan was assassinated; and the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) was strangled and suffocated. What kind of similar hardship have we faced in our life for the sake of Allah?

If you hear a munaafiq or corrupted person say, “Yes but that was at their time. The reality has changed and we are living in a different situation now”, do not listen to him for he has a disease in his heart. No person will ever enter Paradise without to face severe tests from Almighty Allah (SWT) in every sphere of life, for Allah will test those who He loves:

“When Allah wishes good for someone he will test him.” (Al-Bukhaari)

We have heard many people who have the attributes of the munaafiqeen often saying in regards to the mujaahideen and those sincere Muslims who have lost their limbs for the sake of Allah or have been imprisoned: “Allah has punished these people. Had they not made such statements then they would be free today.” We would like to remind them of one verse where Allah (SWT) says:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لا تَكُونُوا كَالَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا وَقَالُوا لإخْوَانِهِمْ إِذَا ضَرَبُوا فِي الأرْضِ أَوْ كَانُوا غُزًّى لَوْ كَانُوا عِنْدَنَا مَا مَاتُوا وَمَا قُتِلُوا لِيَجْعَلَ اللَّهُ ذَلِكَ حَسْرَةً فِي قُلُوبِهِمْ وَاللَّهُ يُحْيِي وَيُمِيتُ وَاللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ بَصِيرٌ

“O you who believe! Be not like those who disbelieve [hypocrites] and who say to their brethren when they travel through the earth or go out to fight: ‘If they had stayed with us, they would not have died or been killed,’ so that Allah may make it a cause of regret in their hearts. It is Allah that gives life and causes death. And Allah is All-­Seer of what you do.” (EMQ Aali ‘Imraan, 3:156)

One day you may have no food to eat, no clothes to wear, no home to live in, no family to ask for help, and no limbs to help you work. If you are ever tested by Allah (SWT) and find yourself to be in this situation, then the best and only thing you could do is say, “Al-Hamdulillaah (all praises are for Allah).” Be grateful to your Lord in ease and in hardship. Verily, the one who is ungrateful to his Lord will live a miserable life in the dunyaa, and in the Hereafter he will be disgraced and humiliated.

أَمْ حَسِبْتُمْ أَنْ تَدْخُلُوا الْجَنَّةَ وَلَمَّا يَأْتِكُمْ مَثَلُ الَّذِينَ خَلَوْا مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ مَسَّتْهُمُ الْبَأْسَاءُ وَالضَّرَّاءُ وَزُلْزِلُوا حَتَّى يَقُولَ الرَّسُولُ وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مَعَهُ مَتَى نَصْرُ اللَّهِ أَلا إِنَّ نَصْرَ اللَّهِ قَرِيبٌ

“Or think you that you will enter Paradise without such [trials] as came to those who passed away before you? They were afflicted with severe poverty and ailments and were so shaken that even the Messenger and those who believed along with him said, ‘When [will come] the help of Allah?’ Yes! Certainly, the Help of Allah is near!” (Al-Baqarah, 2:214)

أَحَسِبَ النَّاسُ أَنْ يُتْرَكُوا أَنْ يَقُولُوا آمَنَّا وَهُمْ لا يُفْتَنُونَ

وَلَقَدْ فَتَنَّا الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِهِمْ فَلَيَعْلَمَنَّ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ صَدَقُوا وَلَيَعْلَمَنَّ الْكَاذِبِينَ

“Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: ‘We believe,’ and will not be tested?”“And we indeed tested those who were before them. And Allah will certainly make [it] known [the truth of] those who are true, and will certainly make [it] known [the falsehood of] those who are liars, [although Allah knows all that before putting them to test].” (Al-’Ankaboot, 29:2-3)

وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُمْ بِشَيْءٍ مِنَ الْخَوْفِ وَالْجُوعِ وَنَقْصٍ مِنَ الأمْوَالِ وَالأنْفُسِ وَالثَّمَرَاتِ وَبَشِّرِ الصَّابِرِينَ

الَّذِينَ إِذَا أَصَابَتْهُمْ مُصِيبَةٌ قَالُوا إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ

أُولَئِكَ عَلَيْهِمْ صَلَوَاتٌ مِنْ رَبِّهِمْ وَرَحْمَةٌ وَأُولَئِكَ هُمُ الْمُهْتَدُونَ

“And certainly, we shall test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives and fruits, but give glad tidings to as-Saabireen [the patient ones].”“Who, when afflicted with calamity, say: ‘Truly! To Allah we belong and truly, to Him we shall return.’”

Press Release Dated 8th February 2008
SHARI’AH IS THE FUTURE FOR BRITAIN

Following the archbishop of Canterbury’s comments yesterday that some elements of Shari’ah seem unavoidable there has been a barrage of attacks against any concept of Shari’ah ever being introduced on the shores of Britain by some and a compromising position being taken by others who have suggested that with checks and balances and as long as British law and values remained paramount then perhaps they might consider Shari’ah law in family matters for example.

Let us absolutely clear about this. Islam is not subject to dilution, compromise or relegation. It is the perfect system sent to mankind from Allah (SWT) with the last Messenger Muhammad (saw). The Shari’ah is a complete way of life which has rulings on all matters in life from ruling, social and economic relations and even on how the foreign policy should be formulated. There is no room whatsoever for even one law not to based upon the divine text of the Qur’an and the traditions (Hadeeth) of the Messenger Muhammad (saw). For any Muslim to even suggest that the Shari’ah should not be implemented in its entirety is an act of apostasy. The Messenger Muhammad (saw) said clearly that Islam is superior and will never be surpassed.

The idea of non-Muslims offering to implement aspects of Islamic law is not a new phenomenon however. Even in the lifetime of the Prophet the Quraish of Mecca, who were polytheists, offered to mix their own non-Islamic law with the Islamic law, in response the Messenger Muhammad (saw) said: ‘O Kaffirs (non-Muslims) I do not worship that which you worship and nor will you worship that which I worship, and I shall not worship that which you worship and nor will you worship that which I worship, to you be your way of life and to me be mine’ [Chapter 109]

In other words the two systems of secularism and Islam are diametrically opposed, you cannot say that sovereignty and supremacy is for man on the one hand and also that sovereignty belongs to Allah on the other. One must take precedence, and that is Islam. Christians and secularists agree to give unto Caesar what belongs to him and unto God what belongs to him, this is the basis of secularism i.e. the separation of religion from life’s affairs, on the other hand Muslims believe Caesar must be a Muslim implementing Islamic law!

Moreover Islamic jurists agree that even if Gordon Brown were to, for example agree to cut the hand of the thief, unless he did so in response to the command of Allah and in worship to him, it would still be considered kufr (non-Islamic) law, for we have a principle that whatever (in non-Islamic law) agrees with Islam is kufr and whatever disagrees with Islam is kufr.

The implementation of Islam on State level is called the concept of the Khilafah. The Khilafah system of governance existed ever since the lifetime of Messenger Muhammad when he established the first Islamic State in 622 CE. There was then an unbroken chain of Islamic States for 1302 years until the destruction of the Ottoman Khilafah in 1924. The Khilafah system is not implemented anywhere in the world today, rather every country in the Muslim world today implements a form of capitalism, monarchy or other form of dictatorship or secular system. Ever since the destruction of the previous state at the hands of the British stooge Kemal Ataturk in 1924, Muslims have witnessed the conspiracies and plots of the Western governments and in particular the British and French, as they divided the remnants of the Islamic State amongst themselves after the First World War.

With this in mind is it any wonder that eyebrows are raised at the mere suggestion of the Shari’ah having any legitimacy whatsoever. Proponents of secularism realise that once the Khilafah is established on Earth all the corruption from which they benefit will be eradicated, this includes the pornography and fashion industries which exploit the procreation instinct, the consumption of drugs and alcohol which befog the mind would be illegal and monopolising wealth or commodities and engaging in usurious transactions will also be outlawed. In addition there would be a foreign policy of annexing other nations under its rule leading one day to the complete domination of the world by Islam i.e. Izhar ud-Deeen, as prophesized by the Messenger Muhammad (saw) himself.

Hence the hatred spouted against Islam and Muslims and the constant attack against the Khilafah system is no surprise. In fact, it would not be an overstatement to say that the biggest nightmare that the capitalist camp could envisage for the future of its interests in Muslim countries and indeed for its own future is once again having to confront the might and majesty of the Khilafah system of governance. Allah (SWT) tells us clearly in the Qur’an that: Never will the Jews nor the Christians be pleased with you (O Muhammad Peace be upon him ) till you follow their religion. Say: ‘Verily, the Guidance of Allâh (i.e. Islâmic Monotheism) that is the (only) Guidance. And if you (O Muhammad Peace be upon him ) were to follow their (Jews and Christians) desires after what you have received of Knowledge (i.e. the Qur’ân), then you would have against Allâh neither any Walî (protector or guardian) nor any helper [EMQ 2:120] Muslims therefore must believe that the comments of the archbishop are designed to take them away from the true understanding of Islam and to adopt his own religion of secularism. This is also evident in his attack against the penal system implemented in some Muslim countries.

In conclusion, the introduction of some elements of Islam will not function properly, for example without the social, economic and ruling justice of Islam the penal code cannot be implemented. Rather to introduce one or two elements may just engender hatred towards the Shari’ah as a whole, as we saw in the case of Turabi in Sudan and also with the monarchy system in Saudi Arabia, which may very well be the ultimate objective of Dr Rowan Williams and his ilk.

Anjem Choudary – 07956 600 569

Judge of the Shari’ah Court of the UK & Lecturer at the London School of Shari’ah

Allah (SWT) said:

“And certainly, We shall test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives and fruits, but give glad tidings to As-Saabireen (the patient, steadfast ones, etc.).” (EMQ al-Baqarah, 2:155)

And Allah (SWT) also says:

“…And We shall make a trial of you with evil and with good, and to Us you will be returned.” (EMQ al-Anbiyaa’, 21:35)

And in another Aayah, Allah (SWT) says:

“Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: “We believe,” and will not be put under trial (tested).” (EMQ al-‘Ankaboot, 29:2)

And the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said:

“The greatness of the reward matches the severity of the test (trial). Verily, when Allah loves a people He will test them (with trials and afflictions). So he who is pleased (with the decree of Allah), his reward is His (Allah’s) pleasure, and he who is displeased (with Allah), his reward is (Allah’s) anger.” (Sunan ibn Maajah, Book 36, Chapter 23, Hadeeth no. 4031)

No doubt, those with high Imaan will be tested more than others. It is reported that Sa’d bin Abee Waqqaas (Radiyallahu ‘Anhu) asked the Messenger Muhammad (SAW), “O Messenger of Allah, who of the people is subjected to the severest of trials?” Allah’s Messenger (SAW) replied:

“(The people who are tested most are) the Prophets, and then those who are righteous, and then those who are similar to them. A man will be put to trial according to his Deen. If his Deen was strong, his test will be more severe. But if his Deen was weak, then he will be tested according to it. And the calamity (tests) will continue to afflict the servant until it leaves him to walk on the earth free from sins.” (Sunan ibn Maajah, Book 36, Chapter 23, Hadeeth no. 4023)

Dear brothers and sisters, we know that many brothers today have been tested and afflicted with severe trials, and as a consequence they are now behind bars; we have seen them and heard about them – Abu Baraa’, Abu Wala’, Abu Maryam, Abu Yahya, brother Fahad, and not to mention our beloved brothers, Sheikh Abu Qatada, Sheikh Abu Hamza, Sheikh Faisal, and many other brothers. We have seen how they have been tested. And it has been proven that their Deen is much better than our Deen, because the one who is tested and suffers more because of his Deen, his Imaan is greater than anyone else’s, as mentioned in the hadeeth.

Source:
OBM Online

Author: Unknown

Today we live in a world where the Muslims do not even know why they are Muslims. Many people today are just Muslims by name and they have no understanding of what Islam is or the basics of Islam. It is important that we study our aqeedah (belief) which is Islam. Islam is a beautiful deen (way of life) where there is no room for blind following. Allah (swt) in the Quran encourages us to learn about this deen as much as possible. Allah (swt) commands us to seek knowledge in Surah TaHa, 20:114

“…And say: My Lord increase me in knowledge.”

Allah (swt) also says in Surah Fatir, 35:28

“…It is only those who have knowledge among His servants that fear Allah…”

So we see in this ayah that Allah (swt) says that those amongst the Muslims who have knowledge are indeed the ones who fear Allah (swt). We also see that the Messenger of Allah (saw) made it fard upon us to see knowledge: Anas Ibn Malik reported that the Prophet (saw) said,

“Seeking of knowledge is incumbent upon every Muslim….”
(Ibn Majah 1/224 and Tirmidhi 218)

From numerous ayahs and ahadith we can see that learning our deen is fard upon every single Muslim and is vital in order to practice Islam.

Many things triggered the loss of the Muslim Identity within the Ummah. One of the biggest things is the fall of the Islamic State (Khilafah). The whole state in which Islamic culture was applied throughout daily life had collapsed in 1924. We also see the Kuffar of the West always trying new tactics and brainwashing the youth. The lack of Islamic culture in families results in blind following youth whom are raised to be what the society molds them to be. Allah (swt) says that the Kuffar will never be pleased with us until we astray from our deen and follow their way of life. Allah (swt) says in Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:120

“Never will the Jews nor the Christians be pleased with you (O Muhammad Peace be upon him) till you follow their religion…”

Thus we see today the Muslim youth being attracted by worldly materialistic things of the Dunya and copying the kuffar bit by bit which is leading to the decline of understanding of Islam. Indeed the Prophet prophesized that this would happen one day: In the Saheeh of Bukhaari and Muslim, there is a hadeeth on the authority of Abu Sa`eed that the Messenger said,

“You will certainly follow the ways of those nations who were before you, span by span and cubit by cubit, so much so that even if they entered a lizard’s hole, you would follow them.” They said, “O Messenger! (Do you mean) the Jews and the Christians?” He said, “Who else?”

It’s important to note the distinction of the youth in Islam and the youth of the West. In the West children are raised as immature, even when they are in their teens until they reach the age of eighteen or twenty one. Eighteen and twenty one is when the society in the west starts holding them responsible for their actions. Such bazaar ideas like the one mentioned above is imposed on the youth of the West which make them act like blind sheep. The main concerns of the youth in the west are: pop idols, sports, Brittney Spears, Madonna, fashion, hair styles, clothes, Jay-Z, and so forth. In Islam the treatment of the youth is completely different. In Islam when one has reached the age of puberty, he/she is considered to be mature. The mature individual in Islam is required to follow certain obligations and duties. Unlike concerns for Madonna, fashion, and Brittney Spears, Islam focuses the concerns on that which is relevant to the individual’s life. The purpose of human beings, the hereafter, the acts of obedience to Allah (swt), etc. is all addressed. Therefore the actions, characteristics, and concerns are completely different from the youth of Islam to that of the West.

We as Muslims cannot continue to raise generations of dumb, blind and deaf children. We must make our Youth strong because they are the future hufaaz, scholars, fighters and revivalists of Islam. The fall of the Khilafah and loss of the Islamic identity should be a lesson for all of us. We must culture ourselves about the Aqeedah of Islam and identity of the Muslims as much as possible. This is one of our greatest obligations and priorities at the moment which cannot be neglected. Imagine if Allah were to take your life right this second, you will have no excuse in front of your Lord about why you didn’t learn about your deen. If you’re going to call yourself a Muslim, then actually look into Islam and see what a servant of Allah is truly supposed to be like and act upon it!

Unlike society today where the role models for young youth are people like Brittney Spears, Madonna, Eminem, Maryilen Monroe, etc; the Youth in Islam look up to the best example of mankind which is the Prophet Muhammad (saw). In Islam Allah (swt) blessed the Muslims and gave us a Prophet so that we may be guided by him. Allah (swt) says in Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:21

“Indeed in the Messenger of Allâh (Muhammad SAW) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allâh and the Last Day and remembers Allâh much.”

The Youth in Islam are encouraged to follow the people of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jammah. Ahlus Sunnah wal Jammah is composed of the belief that the Prophet Muhammad (saw), the Sahaba (companions), Tai’been (students of the Sahaba), Tabbi Tai’been (students of the students of the Sahaba) and so forth were on. Narrated by Aishah:

A person asked Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him) as to who amongst the people were the best. He said: Of the generation to which I belong, then of the second generation (generation adjacent to my generation), then of the third generation (generation adjacent to the second generation).
[Book 30, Number 6159]

At the time when Islam was first introduced to mankind it attracted a major number of the Youth. We see amazing examples of the true Muslims at that time and look up to them. The Prophet (saw)’s wife and the mother of the believers, Aishah (ra) was only 18 when she became a Mujtahida. She was also the first Muslimah to memorize the whole entire Quran. Aishah (ra) is a source that we look back to learn and understand our deen, she narrated many ahadith. Many scholars of that time used to travel from distant places just to attend her halaqas (classes) and learn about Islam. Arwa Bin Zubair said:

“I did not find anyone more proficient than Aishah in the knowledge of the Qur’an, the Commandments of Halal (lawful) and Haram (prohibited). That is why even senior companions of the Prophet used to consult Aishah in resolving intricate issues.”

Indeed she was one of a kind and sisters should look unto her as a great example of a Muslimah.

If we see the attitude of Zayd Ibn Thabit (ra) we can understand how serious the youth were about Islam and how well they understood it. When Rasoolullah (saw) was getting ready to fight at Badr, Zayd not even thirteen years old yet was quick to fight Fe Sabilellah. Zayd Ibn Thabit said to Rasoolullah (saw)

“I dedicate myself to you, Messenger of God. Permit me to be with you and to fight the enemies of God under your banner.”
Since he was so young Rasoolullah (saw) refused to enlist him. The Prophet Muhammad (saw) said to Zayd Ibn Thabit: “Zayd, learn the writing of the Jews for me,” Zayd was quick to respond: “At your command, Messenger of Allah.”

Observing just some of these examples we see how quick, enthusiastic, motivated and pious the youth were of that time. There is no doubt that the Muslim youth today should take these great motivating Sahabiyat as examples to follow.

When we look back at these great companions of Rasoolullah (saw) and compare them to ourselves, it’s very different. Let’s ask ourselves how much did we know about Islam at the age of eighteen? How much were we willing to sacrifice for Allah’s sake at age thirteen? It’s important to try and copy the Salaf us Salih as much as possible. Abdullah ibn Amru narrated:

“The Prophet (saw) said: “My Ummah will face what bani Israel faced step by step, even if one of them approached his mother publicly (sexually) there will be one of my Ummah will approach his mother. The people of Israel divide into divided into 72 sects, my Ummah will divide into 73 sects, all of them are in the hellfire, and one of them is in paradise.” We asked “which one is saved?” the Prophet (saw) said: “the one that is Me and my companions.”"
[Tirmizi 2565]

We must remember to spend our youth for the sake of Allah wisely before Death over takes us, then it will be too late. Once you become old, weak, and feeble it’s extremely hard to do certain things that would normally be easy for the youth. Take your energy, build motivation, use your body, mouth, eyes, hands, legs, all for the sake of Allah (swt) Alone and InshaAllah Allah will reward you. The Youth of Islam today are the ones who will revive the Islamic State, protect Islam and the Muslims. It is a great honor and once in a lifetime opportunity for the youth to manage their energy and time wisely for the sake of Allah and His deen. We are accountable for every second we spend in our life, so InshaAllah make every second count. The Prophet of Allah (saw) said:

“Value five things before the other five comes to pass: Value youth before old age, health before illness, affluence before poverty, leisure before becoming too busy and value life before death.”
[Tirmithi]

On the authority of Abdullah bin Abbas, who said : One day I was behind the prophet and he said to me:

“Young man, I shall teach you some words [of advice] : Be mindful of Allah, and Allah will protect you. Be mindful of Allah, and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, ask of Allah; if you seek help, seek help of Allah. Know that if the Nation were to gather together to benefit you with anything, it would benefit you only with something that Allah had already prescribed for you, and that if they gather together to harm you with anything, they would harm you only with something Allah had already prescribed for you. The pens have been lifted and the pages have dried.”

Narrated by Tirmidhi, who said it is true and fine hadith

In a version other than that of Tirmithi it reads:

“…Be mindful of Allah, you will find Him before you. Get to know Allah in prosperity and He will know you in adversity. Know that what has passed you by was not going to befall you; and that what has befallen you was not going to pass you by. And know that victory comes with patience, relief with affliction, and ease with hardship.”

Nowadays, many true, humble, devout and sincere Muslims are labelled as “minorities” or even “lunatic fringes”. Some people have even sunk down to the level of making haraam into halaal based upon what the majority of people say. Is this valid in Islam? Should we really follow what the majority of people believe in and follow, or should we stand with the haq (truth), regardless of how many people follow it?

Since we are Muslims (submitters), it is vital (and in fact an obligation) for us to refer back to the Qur’aan and Sunnah and see what our Lord has to say about this issue. The Almighty says in His Book:

“And if you obey the majority who are on earth, they will lead you far astray from the path of Allah. They follow nothing but conjectures and they are nothing but liars.” (EMQ 6:116)

This verse is very clear and explicit for us all to see. Allah (SWT) informs us that the majority of people follow nothing but conjectures (doubt) and they do nothing but lie. This verse annihilates any kind of idea or concept which involves seeking the permission, satisfaction and pleasure of the majority of people on earth. Therefore, those who say that we (the Islamists) do not represent the majority of people and that we are a minority, we would like to say to them, indeed! The majority are misguided and the majority will enter the Fire.

The truth is not with the majority and this is something which is very well known to those who are on guidance from Allah (SWT). We know the truth from the evidence (i.e. the divine texts – the Qur’aan and Sunnah) and not by the sayings of the majority. In fact, the Shaytaan (devil) made a promise to Allah (SWT) that he will mislead the majority of His slaves and only a minority of believers who are sincere will be able to combat the evil whispering he has to offer. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’aan:

“[Iblees (Satan)] said: ‘By Your Might, then I will surely mislead them all, except your chosen slaves amongst them (who are true believers in Islam and worship Allah exclusively).’” (EMQ 38:82-83)

Therefore, what the majority, say, do or believe in should never be a criterion for a Muslim to judge what is right and what is wrong, what is evil and what is good. Our only criteria are the Qur’aan and the Sunnah, in accordance with the understanding of the Sahaabah – this is what we follow regardless of how many people hold on to it. It has been authentically reported that the Sahaabi Abdullah bin Mas’ood (RA) said:

“Be with the Jamaa’ah (the Haq) even if you are by yourself.”

In fact, during the time of Ahmad bin Hanbal (RH), he was the only one who had the courage to stand with the truth and declare that the Qur’aan was the sayings of Allah and not His (SWT)’s creation, despite the fact that the majority of people said otherwise and didn’t have the audacity to openly declare what he did.

Furthermore, the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said:

“…And this nation (of Muslims) will split into seventy-three sects. All of them will be in the Fire except one sect (the Saved Sect).” They (the Companions) asked, ‘Who are they (the Saved Sect) oh Messenger of Allah?’ He (SAW) said, “Those who are upon what I and my Companions are upon.” (Sunan at-Tirmidhi)

Therefore, the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) prophesised and informed us that this Ummah will be divided into sects. The majority of them will go to Hell, and only a minority will be saved – and they are those who strictly follow none other than him (SAW) and his companions; not the customs of the people or the sayings of the majority. Furthermore, another hadeeth in Saheeh al-Bukhaari also proves this fact that the majority of people will be in Hellfire:

The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said: “Allah will say (on the Day of Resurrection), ‘O Aadam.’ Aadam (AS) will reply, ‘Here I am, with full submission and all good is in your hand.’ Allah will say, ‘Bring out the people of the Fire.’ Aadam will say, ‘O Allah! How many are the people of the Fire?’ Allah will reply, ‘From every one thousand, take out nine hundred and ninety-nine.’” (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, Book: Stories of the Prophets, chapter 7 hadeeth no.3348)

Therefore, as we have already mentioned before, this issue is something which is very clear to those who are on guidance from their Lord. And those who say that we do not represent the majority; we believe that they are absolutely correct! The majority of people are misguided and the majority will enter the Hellfire – we never want to represent the people of Hellfire.

In fact, these same people who say that we are a minority are actually minorities themselves. Ask the Muslim Ummah if they believe groups such as the MCB represent them; it is more than likely that only a minute percentage would say that they do – based upon surveys which we have carried out ourselves. However, this is not the method of Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah (the Saved Sect) to judge between what is right and wrong. Whether the majority or minority agree with us, we do not care – so long as we are following the divine texts. Those people who seek the pleasure and satisfaction of the people will burn in the Fire which Allah (SWT) has created, and Allah (SWT) will make them be detested by the whole of mankind:

The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said: “Whoever seeks Allah’s pleasure at the cost of the majorities’ displeasure, will win the pleasure of Allah, and Allah will cause men to be please with him. And whoever seeks to please the majority at the cost of Allah’s displeasure, will win the displeasure of Allah, and Allah will cause men to be displeased with him.” (Musnad al-Imaam Ahmad)

The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his companions were a minority in Makkah, yet due to their uncompromising hard work and efforts, they succeeded in destroying the kufr system of the Quraysh and Allah (SWT) granted them authority on earth. Allah (SWT) says:

“…How often has a small group overpowered a mightier host with the permission of Allah?” And Allah is with as-Saabireen (those who are firm and uncompromising).” (EMQ 2:249)