Tips: Who Are Your Mahrams And Non-Mahrams?

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Something that not many people are aware of yet is that since the male cousins of a Muslim woman are not her mahram, her cousins' sons are also not her mahram. Even if someone complains with "but they call me 'auntie', therefore they're my nephews!" or "wouldn't it be weird to marry your cousin's son?", what Allah the Almighty and His noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam say are much more important than people's opinions.

In Surah An-Noor, verse 31, where a Muslim woman's mahrams are mentioned, her cousins and cousins' sons are not included. This is evidence that a woman's male cousins and "nephews" through her cousins are marriageable, and they can't be counted as a mahram to accompany her on long journeys, travel, Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage. 

🗒️ The following are your mahrams as a Muslimah: 

Your father, your mother's father, your father's father, your grandfather's father, your brother, your brother's sons, your mother's brothers (your maternal uncles), your father's brothers (your paternal uncles), your husband's sons from his other wife, your husband's father or your father-in-law, your sister's sons, the sons of your nephews from your brother or sister, your half-brother (your father's sons from his other wife), your foster brother (who was breastfed by your mother at least five times) and your son-in-law. If you have a daughter and she marries your cousin's son, her husband becomes your legal mahram.

📋 What you can do with your male mahrams: 

1) They can accompany you for shopping, traveling, and performing Hajj or Umrah.

2) They are allowed to see your hair, face and arms.

3) You can shake hands with them.

4) You can briefly hug them if they arrived from travel, if you haven't seen each other in a long time, or if they passed away.

5) They can be your guardian concerning witnessing and signing marriage contract, or accepting or declining marriage proposals from suitors.

🗒️ The following are not your mahrams: 

Your male cousins whether they are your first-degree, second-degree or third-degree cousins, their sons and the sons of their sons, your husband's brothers whether they are his half-brothers, his stepbrothers, or his foster brothers, your sister's husband, the husbands of your nieces from your cousins, the male cousins of your mother and father, and any man who is not closely connected through family ties.

📋 What you must do around non-mahram males:

1) Maintain your hijaab, niqaab and modesty around them.

2) Avoid being too overly friendly and flirtatious towards them.

3) You can't consider them as a mahram, shopping buddy and travel companion.

4) Don't shake hands with them, poke their shoulders, or tap their backs to get their attention.

5) They are marriageable to you and your daughters if one of them is interested in marrying.

~•~

📖 Jabir Ibn Abdullah RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Whoever has faith/Imaan in Allah and the Last Day, let him not be alone with an unrelated woman (non-mahram female) without her guardian (mahram). Verily, the third of them is shaytan."

Source: Musnad Ahmed 14241

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "It is not lawful for a woman who has faith/Imaan in Allah and the Last Day to travel for a day and a night without her guardian (mahram)."

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 1038 

Sahih Muslim 1339

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

📖 Narrated `Uqba Ibn 'Amir RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Beware of entering upon the ladies." A man from the Ansaar said, "O' Allah's Messenger! What about Al-Hamu (the male in-laws of the wife like the brothers of her husband or his nephews etc.)?" The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam answered: "The in-laws of the wife are death itself." 

Reference: Sahih Al-Bukhari 5232In-book reference: Book 67 

Hadith 165USC-MSA web (English) reference: Vol. 7, Book 62, Hadith 159

https://www.abukhadeejah.com/mind-map-illustration-showing-the-mahrams-male-chaperones-of-a-woman-for-travel-and-sittings/

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/15442/%D8%B5%D9%81%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B1%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%B9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AD%D8%B1%D9%85

Note: The Permissibility For The Husband To Suck Or Fondle His Wife's Breasts

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

📜 Question: Can the husband be breastfed by his wife (as part of sexual activity)?

📝 Answer: There is no problem in that. If he sucked her breast, it doesn't harm him, even if he swallowed some bit of breast milk it doesn't harm (it doesn't transform him into her "foster son"), because breastfeeding the adult does not affect anything, according to the majority of scholars. Nonetheless, it is better for a man to avoid it, specially if there is no need for it. 

A husband's act of sucking his wife's breasts whether he does it playfully, as part of foreplay, or to show affection, doesn't harm him even if he was able to swallow some breast milk. She still remains as his wife and he doesn't become his son through breastfeeding. However avoiding it is better for the husband and wife.

From the Fataawa of sheikh AbdulAziz Ibn Baz (May Allah have mercy on him. Ameen.)

~•~

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/25634/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%B1%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%B9%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B2%D9%88%D8%AC-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%AB%D8%AF%D9%8A-%D8%B2%D9%88%D8%AC%D8%AA%D9%87

https://youtu.be/2jLq194Ossw

Note: It Is Permissible To Remember Allah And Say Du'a Even If One Hasn't Performed Wudhu/Ablution

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

📜 Question: Is it allowed/permissible to say Du'a during times outside of prayer, and the person is not in a state of purity (didn't perform wudhu/ablution), for instance when one is at work? Can one's supplication be responded to in this situation?

📝 Answer: Saying Du'a is legislated in every time, and it is not a condition to be in a state of purity. You may say Du'a in all circumstances, whether you are in a state of purity or janaaba (sexual impurity), or you are upon minor impurity (your wudhu/ablution was invalidated), or a woman is having her monthly period (menstruation) or nifaas (postpartum bleeding), saying Du'a is required or encouraged, as well as saying Dhikr. And from the Adhkaar which we can regularly say are: SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Laa ilaaha ilAllah, and Allahu Akbar. Remembering Allah the Almighty can be done in any situation, even a woman is allowed to say Dhikr while she is menstruating or she has nifaas (postpartum bleeding), and the person who is in a state of janaaba (sexual impurity).

 'Aisha RadhiAllahu 'anha narrated that the beloved Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam would remember Allah whenever he could at all times. Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala says, "Verily, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and day are signs for those with reason (understanding, insight, enlightenment)." [Surah Aal-'Imraan verse 190] and Allah the Most Merciful says, "...those who remember Allah standing, and sitting, and on their sides."  [Surah Aal-'Imraan verse 191] 

So it is legislated for the believer to say Du'a in all circumstances. What is specifically forbidden for the person is reciting any verse from the Noble Qur'an while they are in a state of janaaba (sexual impurity). 

And Allah the Most Kind says, "So once the prayer is completed, disperse throughout the land and seek from the bounty of Allah and remember Allah much so you become successful." [Surah Al-Jumuah verse 10] 

The believer is ordered to remember Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala, saying Dhikr, always whether one is standing, sitting or reclining on one's side, and whether one is in a state of purity or not. When it comes to reciting some verses (aayaat) from the Noble Qur'an particularly, the Muslim can only recite if they are in a state of purity.

From the Fataawa of sheikh AbdulAziz Ibn Baz (May Allah have mercy on him. Ameen.)

~•~

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/19913/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D8%B9%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D9%8A%D8%B4%D8%B1%D8%B9-%C2%A0%D9%81%D9%8A-%D9%83%D9%84-%D9%88%D9%82%D8%AA%C2%A0%D9%88%D9%84%D9%8A%D8%B3-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%B4%D8%B1%D8%B7%D9%87-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B7%D9%87%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A9

Poem: Confessions Of A Wife Who Welcomes Polygyny

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Confessions of a wife who welcomes polygyny 

To her husband whom she loves for Allah sincerely:

Dear zawjy, the fact that I'm fine if you remarry 

Doesn't mean my love is fake and it lacks jealousy. 

~•~

I do feel jealous for you now and then, believe me, 

Specially when some wives see their men nearly daily, 

While you and I meet just once a week or bimonthly. 

Nonetheless my respect for your rights proves it's all real.

~•~

If Allah the Almighty permits you to marry 

Another lady, while you have the financial means, 

And you aim to increase the size of your family, 

I'll patiently accept and welcome Allah's Decree.

~•~

Your love for the second wife won't cause mine to decrease.

Instead, my love for you will grow stronger stubbornly, 

Eager to compete regarding patience, piety, 

Good manners and contentment with Allah's Destiny.

~•~

When you and the other wife fight occasionally, 

I won't be hoping that she'll hate you so she can leave. 

I'd say Du'a, pray for you both from behind the scenes, 

That you'll forgive each other so our fam is complete. 

~•~

And when there are moments when you seem to neglect me, 

Due to work or someone else intruding pridefully, 

I'd ask Allah for strength to forgive you readily, 

Not wanting shaytan's tricks nor sorcery to succeed.

~•~

Dear husband and friend whom I love with fierce loyalty, 

I confess I can't control your love's intensity. 

Love your wives as you like, but ensure it's done fairly. 

I don't want you suffering at all because of me.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If a woman prays her five prayers, fasts her month of Ramadan, guards her chastity, and obeys her husband, she will enter Paradise from any gate she wishes."

Source: Sahih Ibn Hibbān 4252

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If I were to order anyone to prostrate to another, I would have ordered a wife to prostrate before her husband."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 1159

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to At-Tirmidhi

Ali Al-Qari said, "That she prostrates to her husband is due to the number of his rights over her and her difficulty in maintaining gratitude for them. This rhetorical point conveys the obligation of the wife to obey her husband in his rights. Indeed, prostration is not lawful to anyone other than Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala."

Source: Mirqāt Al-Mafātih 5/2125

📖 Abdullah Ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The world is enjoyment and the best enjoyment in the world is a righteous wife."

Source: Sahih Muslim 1467

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

Poem: Contented With The Man Whom Allah Chose As My Spouse And Other Half

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Loving my spouse is one of the best gifts Allah gave.

Through my husband I learned not to care what critics say,

While loving him unconditionally night and day.

Despite differences we're the same in many ways.

~•~

As he told me before, his past was not that easy.

To be a doctor he did a lot more than study.

He sacrificed much of his pleasures for his studies.

As his prize, Allah granted him a patient wife - me.

~•~

Though not so romantic nor sweet in how he behaves,

I find strength in being the one to initiate.

Each time I bring his hand to mine he reciprocates,

Letting me love him even more in spite of his age.

~•~

He's like an empty page on which I write love stories.

He's the inspiration to my smiles, love poetry,

And thoughts that remind me to keep loving loyally.

Although not handsome to many, he's enough for me.

~•~

He makes me act like a lawyer defending a case

And client misunderstood by the majority.

Like a savory dish disliked by everybody,

I don't mind loving him; he was meant to be with me. 

📖 Umm Salamah RadhiAllahu 'anha narrated that Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Whoever among women dies while her husband is pleased with her, then she will enter Paradise."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 1078

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to At-Tirmidhi

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If a woman prays her five prayers, fasts her month of Ramadan, guards her chastity, and obeys her husband, she will enter Paradise from any gate she wishes."

Source: Sahih Ibn Hibbān 4252

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If I were to order anyone to prostrate to another, I would have ordered a wife to prostrate before her husband."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhī 1159

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to At-Tirmidhi

Ali Al-Qari said, "That she prostrates to her husband is due to the number of his rights over her and her difficulty in maintaining gratitude for them. This rhetorical point conveys the obligation of the wife to obey her husband in his rights. Indeed, prostration is not lawful to anyone other than Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala."

Source: Mirqāt Al-Mafātih 5/2125

📖 Abdullah ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The world is enjoyment and the best enjoyment in the world is a righteous wife."

Source: Sahih Muslim 1467

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

Poem: Patience For Allah's Sake With The Trials In This World Is Better Than Patience With Hell

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Striving to be patient for Allah's sake in this world 

With all sorts of trials, distress, familial discord, 

Sorrowful and stressful moments, things one can't afford, 

Tiring tasks at home and overloaded stress at work, 

Is better than patience with Hell's intense heat and scorch.

~•~

Patience for Allah in leaving wrongdoings you like, 

In trying your best to worship Allah day and night, 

In distancing yourself from sins that your heart desires, 

And in praying to Allah though at times you feel tired, 

Is easier than patience with minutes in Hellfire.

~•~

Training yourself to stay patient for Allah with grief, 

With instances when your wallet or fridge gets emptied, 

With poverty, with critics' insults and mockery, 

With increasing demands and responsibilities, 

Is more manageable than patience with Hell's entry.

~•~

Maintaining patience for Allah through disappointments, 

New problems piling up after solved tribulations, 

Heartaches in fighting off wrong feelings of attraction,

And annoyance with some people's unjust mistreatment, 

Is much better than patience with Hell's lasting torment.

~•~

Whenever you go through any challenge or problem, 

Recall: Allah loves us, dunya is not permanent, 

Difficulties and hardship expiate previous sins, 

The pious get purified before Jannah's entrance, 

And in Jannah/Paradise there'll be no suffering.

~•~

Note: Reminder to include the Muslim Ummah in your Du'as before Maghreb today Jumuah/Friday.

📖 Anas ibn Malik RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If Allah wills goodness for His servant, He hastens the punishment for him in this world. If Allah wills harm for His servant, He withholds punishment for his sins until he appears on the Day of Resurrection."

In another narration, the Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, with greater rewards come greater trials. If Allah loves a people, He will test them. Whoever is content will be pleasing to Allah, and whoever is displeased will be displeasing to Allah."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 2396

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Al-Nu’man ibn Bashir RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, the most lightly punished of the people of Hellfire on the Day of Resurrection is a man under whose feet are placed two hot coals by which his brain boils."

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 6193 

Sahih Muslim 213

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

📖 Abu Sa’eed RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Death will be brought on the Day of Resurrection in the form of a white ram, and it will be made to stand between Paradise and Hellfire. It will be said to the people of Paradise: 'Do you recognize this?' They will raise their heads, looking towards it, and they will say: 'Yes, it is death.' Then, it will be said to the people of Hellfire: 'Do you recognize this?' They will raise their heads, looking towards it, and they will say: 'Yes, it is death.' Then, the command will be given to slaughter the ram and it will be said: 'O people of Paradise, there is everlasting life for you and no death!' And it will be said: 'O people of Hellfire, there is everlasting life for you and no death!'"

Then, the Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam recited the verse, “Warn them of this day of dismay, when their affairs will be decided, yet they are heedless and they do not have faith,” (Surah Maryam 19:39) and he (SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam) pointed with his hand to the world.

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 4453 

Sahih Muslim 2849

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (authentic) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

📖 Sa’d Ibn Abi Waqqas RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: I said, “O Messenger of Allah, which of the people are most severely tested?” The Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "They are the prophets, then the next best (in terms of righteousness), then the next best. A man is put to trial according to his Deen/religion. If he is firm in his religion, his trials will be more severe. If he is weak in his religion, he is put to trial according to his strength in religion. The servant will continue to be put to trial until he is left walking upon the earth without any sin."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 2398

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

Note: Permissibility To Fast Sunnah Fasts On Friday As Long As One Fasts A Day Before And/Or After It

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

It is allowed and permissible to fast Sunnah fasting on a Friday as long as one fasts a day before and/or after it, such as fasting on the 13th, 14th (today Friday February 26 2021, Rajab 14, 1442) and 15th (the three white days / ayyaam al-beedh of each month) and fasting to compensate for missed obligatory fasts.

📖 Narrated Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: My friend (the Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam) advised me to observe three things: To fast three days of each month; to pray two rak'aat of Duha prayer (forenoon prayer); and to pray Salat Al-Witr before sleeping."
Sahih Al-Bukhari 1981 In-book reference: Book 30, Hadith 88 USC-MSA web (English) reference: Vol. 3, Book 31, Hadith 202
📖 Abu Dharr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "O Abu Dharr, if you are going to fast three days of the month, then fast on the thirteenth, fourteenth, and fifteenth days."
Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 761
Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani
📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The deeds are presented on Monday and Thursday. Thus, I love for my deeds to be presented while I am fasting."
Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 747
Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani
📖 Sahl ibn Sa’d RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, there is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Rayyaan, through which only those who fasted will enter on the Day of Resurrection. No one else will enter it along with them. It will be said: 'Where are those who fasted, so that they may enter?' When the last of them enter, it will be closed and no one else will go through it."
Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 1797
Sahih Muslim 1152
Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim
📖 Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Whoever fasts a day in the way of Allah, Allah will move his face away from the Hellfire by a distance of seventy years."
Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 2685
Sahih Muslim 1153
Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim
https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/28886/%D8%B5%D9%8A%D8%A7%D9%85-%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%85%D8%B9%D8%A9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%BA%D9%8A%D8%B1-%D8%B1%D9%85%D8%B6%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%83%D8%B5%D9%8A%D8%A7%D9%85-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%A7%D9%88-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A9

Note: Some Lessons Learned From Wearing Niqab And Abaya Since I Was Around Twelve Years Old

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Alhamdulillah the first time I wore the niqab with black hijab and abaya was in sixth grade, back in Riyadh Saudi Arabia. I was around twelve years old, a hardworking student at a Saudi public school that had classes with several sections for each grade level and every classroom consisted of almost sixty or so girls. You can imagine how crowded it was during recess and assembly time.

Not to brag but Alhamdulillah I think the fact I was one of the top ten students in class shows how ambitious I was in my studies, especially as the only Filipino student among Saudi and other Arab girls. Anyhow, in the beginning I wasn't confident wearing the niqab to be honest. I wore it because I had to, because my dear mom (Allah yarhamha. Ameen.) who used to do Da'wah at Daar Adh-Dhikr and WAMY (World Assembly Of Muslim Youth) ordered me to wear the niqab, because it was part of the school's dress code when outdoors and because I was a resident in Saudi Arabia at that time, so I figured hey if you're in Saudi, veil your face like the majority of women do.

When we traveled abroad outside Saudi Arabia, like to Malaysia and Singapore, there were numerous instances when my nafs would want to discard the niqab as I didn't like the stares which some of the foreign tourists often gave when they'd walk by me. My dear father (Allah yarhamhu. Ameen.) was less strict concerning veiling the face. So he told me I could stop wearing the niqab if I wanted to, even though my Mom insisted on it.

At a hotel in Malaysia I recall not wearing the niqab for only few minutes though, when I didn't like how some guys and others, probably French or so because of the dialect I overheard them talking, kept staring at me much more than when I had the niqab on. An odd aspect of wearing niqab is once you wear it for a long time and decide to take it off, there's this tiny speck of guilty conscience that scolds you with statements like "What are you doing? Put the niqab back on! Your face feels like there's something missing. This doesn't feel right. Wear the niqab now, and do it for Allah, not for the people." Thus I wore the niqab again feeling better, while still feeling somewhat self-conscious whenever strangers would stare or laugh at how I was dressed all in black like a "ninja".

So when we returned in Riyadh city, I went on to do some thorough research on the legislation of covering the face by Muslim women. At the same time I used to watch this Live Fatawa program on Saudi Channel 1 and occasionally send messages through e-mail and the legendary fax machine, asking if wearing the niqab was Sunnah or Wajib/Fardh/obligatory. Many of the answers by the sheikhs, one of them being the Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Abdul-Aziz Abdullah Aal Ash-Sheikh, were similar in agreeing upon the fact that the wives of the noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu alaihi wa sallam and his female companions (many of the sahabiyyaat) used to cover their faces in the presence of non-mahram men. Even during Hajj, if a female Hajj pilgrim should not wear the separate piece niqab, this is evident that in circumstances when she's not in Hajj, a Muslimah is expected to have her face covered.

Whether you hold the opinion that niqab is obligatory or you believe it's just recommended and voluntary, without a doubt there are myriad benefits of Muslim women not showing their faces to non-mahram men in a Muslim community. For instance, husbands in general would appreciate the beauty of their wives more as they're not exposed to the wide variety of pretty faces, while women dressed modestly wouldn't be seen as cheap objects enslaved by the fashion industry.

Alhamdulillah another thing that helped me with my self-esteem is habitually reading motivational articles online on how not to care about what people think. Furthermore when we realize that Allah the Almighty is the Only One Who can rightfully judge us in this temporal world and the next, the ignorant mockery, irrational insults or criticism of the ignorant can't make us feel devalued and upset.

The niqab isn't worn to showcase we're better than hijabis or non-hijabis, but it's one of the noble steps that a Muslimah can take to be closer to Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala, and so her level in Jannah is elevated for striving to pass Allah's different levels of tests.

May Allah the Most Merciful forgive all our sins, accept all our good deeds and guide us to what is best for us in both worlds. Ameen.

📖 ‘Urwah reported: Aisha RadhiAllahu 'anha said, “May Allah have mercy on the foremost women of the Muhaajirun. When Allah revealed the verse, ‘Let them draw their cloaks over their bodies,’ (The Noble Qur'an 24:31) they cut their sheets and veiled themselves with them.”

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 4481

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Bukhari

Hadith: Importance Of Taking Islam Seriously And Avoiding Unnecessary Jokes While Delivering Islamic Lectures

📖 Anas ibn Malik RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Paradise and Hellfire were shown to me and I have never seen such good or evil as I have today. If you knew what I know, you would laugh little and weep often."

Source: Sahih Muslim 2359

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=S9kZHyU64d8

https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCHVVY465eiV4f6E8FJMY7nw/videos

Poem: Who To Take Advice From And Whose "Advice" To Ignore

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Three kinds of people whose "advice" we don't need to take, 

As acting on their tips leads more to loss than upgrade: 

One - The jealous who "advise" so we're misled to fail. 

Two - Pretenders whose actions conflict with what they say. 

Three - The helpless whose conditions differ from our state.

~•~

We're not obliged to listen to misleading pointers 

And warnings from those who are secretly our haters. 

If we believe our choices can make our faith stronger, 

We can ignore sly hints to "do something much better!",

"Find another job!" and "minimize your reminders."

~•~

Gladly dismiss suggestions from confused advisors, 

Whose efforts to assist contradict their behavior. 

They order "be humble" yet they keep judging others, 

Gossiping about this one's looks and that one's odor, 

And they expect instant payment for all their favors.

~•~

Refuse to acknowledge "helpful instructions" from those 

Who don't get you or whose circumstances oppose yours. 

If you're a co-wife, disregard rants of the divorced. 

If a person has never been in your shoes, their words 

Are just their opinions. Take them with a grain of salt.

~•~

As for those whose kind advice we welcome readily: 

Our parents with experience, who care for us truly, 

True friends who really want us in both worlds to succeed, 

And Muslims, of any age, who warn us sincerely 

So together we improve in faith and piety.

~•~

📖 Tamim Al-Dari RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “Religion is sincere good will (Naseeha).” We said, “To whom?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "To Allah, His Book, His Messenger (Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam) the leaders of the Muslims, and their common people."

Source: Sahih Muslim 55

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The believer is a mirror to his faithful brother. He protects him against loss and defends him behind his back."

Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu said, “The believer is a mirror to his brother. If he sees something wrong in him, he should correct it.”

Source: Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 239

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Sa'eed Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Beware of loitering in the roads." They said, “O Messenger of Allah, we have nowhere else to sit and talk.” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If you insist, then give the road its rights." They said, “What are its rights, O Messenger of Allah?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Lower the gaze, refrain from harm, return greetings of peace, enjoin good and forbid evil."

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 2333 

Sahih Muslim 2121

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

Poem: Trust Allah The Almighty And Strive To Be Independent

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Note to orphans, those who can't find someone they can trust, 

And the withdrawn who are selective with whom to love: 

If in your place there's no one who's trustworthy enough, 

Be content knowing that Allah is always with us.

Solitude becomes sweeter with Dhikr and Du'as.

~•~

If sometimes you wake up from a dream and realize 

There's nobody nearby who can help you analyze 

What you dreamt of, as most people are preoccupied 

With the lousy tendency to gossip and tell lies,

Smile. We have Allah whom we can talk to day and night.

~•~

Some strangers made fun of you, and you feel like ranting? 

Don't bother complaining to those who love gossiping, 

Who may twist your words and spread the misinformation.

Attain relief through frequent Qur'an recitation, 

Confide in Allah, and increase your supplications.

~•~

Don't depend on aunts and cousins to solve your problems, 

Specially if they can't improve their own well-being.

No need for guidance counselors, mentors and close friends 

To listen to you when they've got their own afflictions.

We have Allah, be content with trusting Only Him.

~•~

Yes, while some souls may see themselves as your trusted friend, 

Know that certain friendships gradually come to an end. 

Dreams, wishes, concerns and secrets you've told some of them 

May be used against you to spoil your decent standing.

Be content relying on Allah, not His servants.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “Allah the Almighty says: 'I am as My servant expects Me to be and I am with him as he remembers Me. If he remembers Me in himself, I will remember him in Myself. If he mentions Me in a gathering, I will mention him in a greater gathering. When he draws near Me by the span of his hand, I draw near him by the length of a cubit. When he draws near Me by the length of a cubit, I draw near him by the length of a fathom. When he comes to Me walking, I come to him running.'"

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 6970, Sahih Muslim 2675

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

📖 Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Some people from the Ansaar asked the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam and he gave them. Then they asked for charity again and he SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam gave them. Then they asked again and he SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam gave them until all he had was gone. The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If I had anything, I would not withhold it. Whoever refrains from asking others, then Allah will make him content. Whoever would be independent, then Allah will make him independent. Whoever would be patient, then Allah will make him patient. There is no gift that is better and more comprehensive than patience."

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 6105

Sahih Muslim 1053

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

Poem: Seek Authentic Islamic Knowledge To Serve Allah And Never Be Affected By Criticism

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 "Pabibo", "pasikat", "cringe! Pabida masyado", 

"Nosebleed!", "Daming mong alam!", "Feeling matalino!",

"Narcissist!", "Edi wow!", "So you know, and we don't know?", 

"Ikaw na?", and "Mamanti ka!" are some silly slurs 

From someone who fears learning or whose pride was injured.

~•~

Do Da'wah for Allah, and some assume you're acting 

As if you're superior or you desire compliments. 

Enjoin good, forbid wrong, remind Muslims when eating 

And drinking to use their right, to some you're "arrogant" 

Or "Controlling", not letting people do what they want.

~•~

Attend an Islamic class, hear Islamic podcasts, 

Or be caught reading a book, and some may judge you as 

A "nerd" or "know-it-all" who thinks they're a "smart badass". 

Their distaste for those who love learning proves that they lack 

The will to improve themselves or they've got jealous hearts.

~•~

In areas where ignorance has become the "in thing", 

Where stupidity is normalized or so common, 

Those who strive to learn Islam and share what they have learned 

Are oft accused of "arrogance" or "narcissism". 

It's from shaytan's tricks to scare you with not fitting in.

~•~

So to students of knowledge, and Allah's Love we seek, 

Patiently keep learning even if most are displeased. 

Read the Qur'an and listen to lectures frequently, 

Implement what you've studied, practice what you preach, 

And don't be sidetracked by the unlearned majority.

~•~

📖 Anas ibn Malik RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said: "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." 

Source: Sunan Ibn Mājah 224

Grade: Sahih

📖 Mu’awiyah RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said: "If Allah intends goodness for someone, He gives him understanding of the religion."

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 71

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said: "Whoever travels a path in search of knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to Paradise. People do not gather in the Houses of Allah, reciting the Book of Allah and studying It together, but that tranquility will descend upon them, Mercy will cover them, Angels will surround them, and Allah will mention them to those near Him."

Source: Sahih Muslim 2699, Grade: Sahih

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said: "Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to those who follow him, without detracting from their rewards at all.

Whoever calls to misguidance will have sin upon him similar to those who follow him, without detracting from their sins at all."

Source: Sahih Muslim 2674, Grade: Sahih

📖 Ka’b ibn Malik RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Whoever seeks knowledge to impress the scholars, to argue with the foolish, or to attract the attention of people, Allah will admit him into Hellfire."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 2654

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Al-Albani

Poem: Be Patiently Persistent In Loving Your Husband For Allah's Sake

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Even though our marriage is not completely perfect,

For Allah I love my spouse without any regret.

Albeit some of our needs and desires remain unmet,

My husband's best traits and sweet memories I cherish.

~•~

Yet again I reiterate my love stubbornly,

Defending my other half with intense loyalty,

I'll love him patiently till patience gets tired of me -

The strength of my love extends beyond what most can see.

~•~

Whether I'm his only wife or in polygyny,

I choose to love my husband whom Allah chose for me.

To like or admire many I may have tendency,

But my romantic love is for my husband strictly.

~•~

Seriously in countless ways he taught me how to love -

Love unconditionally for just Allah Above.

The feelings I hold for my man I refuse to stop

Ever since he was destined to be my other half.

~•~

Until Allah takes his soul I won't quit loving him,

Even if for myriad decades he goes on living.

Until clouds cry droplets of crystals and cinnamon,

I'll love my husband and withstand his imperfections.

~•~

I want to be that wife who when shaytan whines "Leave him",

I silence his whispers with patience and contentment.

And when shaytan invites me to do what's forbidden

Or give in, I ignore his vile insinuations.

~•~

My spouse, I believe, is from Allah the Almighty.

I can't take for granted the blessing Allah gave me.

You don't need to agree with me; this is my journey.

I pray this leads to Jannah's eternal peace. Ameen.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If a woman prays her five prayers, fasts her month of Ramadan, guards her chastity, and obeys her husband, she will enter Paradise from any gate she wishes."

Source: Sahih Ibn Ḥibbān 4252

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abdullah Ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The world is enjoyment and the best enjoyment in the world is a righteous wife."

Source: Sahih Muslim 1467

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

Poem: Signs Of People Who Are Intimidated By Your Fear Of Allah The Almighty

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Sometimes those who are loved by Allah the Almighty 

Alienate certain people unintentionally.

Despite trying their best not to hurt anybody, 

Striving to be kind when they can, and appear friendly, 

They're viewed by some as "arrogant", "selfish" or "scary".

~•~

It's their confidence that scares those with low self-esteem, 

Their soft hearts that threaten souls who are prone to envy, 

Their eagerness to please Allah that makes the lazy, 

Ignorant or uninspired to assume they're crazy, 

And their strong faith that frightens those who lack piety.

~•~

Signs of those who get intimidated easily 

By your confident vibes and fear of Allah Only:

If they're of the same gender, they can't look directly 

At you, as though they ignore your presence completely. 

They dismiss your salaams or respond unwillingly.

~•~

Instead of approaching you to solve problems clearly, 

They gossip about you on their timeline childishly. 

Then when Allah decrees that each other you would meet, 

Suddenly they get nervous or they're too shy to speak, 

Pretentiously savage online yet offline they're meek.

~•~

Don't let their disrespect and rudeness bring forth worries. 

Their bad conduct indicates their jealousy is real, 

Or they can't handle you're different. So feel sorry 

For them like lions would keep walking while chimpanzees 

Flee upon their arrival to hide behind some trees.

~•~

Continue serving Allah even if you're perceived 

By strangers as a "narcissist" who's full of conceit.

Understand the more you stand out, the more you're unique, 

While you seek Allah the most and He's the One you fear, 

You're a threat to those with tons of insecurities.

~•~

📖 Abu Dharr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Fear Allah wherever you are, follow a bad deed with a good deed and it will erase it, and behave well with good character towards the people."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 1987

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to At-Tirmidhi

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, the most beloved to me are those of you with the best character, soft in nature, friendly and befriended. The most hateful of you to Allah are those who spread gossip, who cause discord (disharmony) between loved ones and seek misery for the innocent."

In another narration, the Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Seeking misery and finding faults with the innocent."

Source: Al-Mu’jam Al-Awsaṭ 7693

Grade: Hasan li ghayrihi according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The strong believer is more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, but there is goodness in both of them. Be eager for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not be frustrated. If something befalls you, then do not say: 'If only I had done something else.' Rather say: "Allah has decreed what He wills." Verily, the phrase ‘if only’ opens the way for the work of shaytan."

Source: Sahih Muslim 2664

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

Poem: To Those Who Enjoy Gossiping, I'm Sorry If My Avoidance Offends You.

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 When you recall that backbiting is a major sin, 

And that spreading rumors is fruitless - not flattering, 

Indicating you forgot that Allah All-Hearing

Hears every statement while His Angels are recording, 

You'd think twice before you ridicule other Muslims. 

~•~

What's the point of discussing someone's imperfections,

Flaws and problems if you're not searching for solutions? 

Why talk offensively about another Muslim

And make fun of them if indulging in gossiping

Only proves you're insecure and lets you gain their sins? 

~•~

Is your life that awful, full of dissatisfaction, 

That you feel the need to gossip for your betterment? 

The wise and observant, who receive Allah's Guidance, 

Know when to speak, explain, excuse, and when to listen. 

Their words aren't meant to cause drama and arguments. 

~•~

Who are you to claim you perceive someone's intention

By accusing them of showing off or arrogance? 

Since when have you become a judge of one's appearance?

Commenting on people's weight like a dietician

Or mocking their hobbies doesn't bring a bright outcome. 

~•~

Typically those who backbite lack self-confidence, 

Or the people whom they verbally abuse often

Trigger their jealous emotions, hence they are threatened. 

As a Muslimah eager to have her faith strengthened, 

For Allah's sake I avoid gossipy discussions. 

~•~

I'd rather discuss topics on self-development, 

Lessons learned from the past, analyze shared experience, 

And explore reminders from some Islamic writings, 

Instead of collecting someone else's wrongdoings

Through careless, meaningless and sinful conversations. 

~•~

Thus pardon my distance if you find it arrogant. 

I prefer learning from few, real, righteous companions, 

Who welcome advice, likewise aim for self-improvement, 

And whose love for Allah outweighs any attachment. 

Talking to them inspires and increases enlightenment. 

~•~

📖 Abdullah Ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: They mentioned a man in front of the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam and they said, “He only eats if he is fed! He only moves if he is made to move!” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "You have backbitten him." They said, “We only said what is true about him.” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "It is enough sin to mention bad things about your brother."

In another narration, the Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If what you said about him were not true, you would have slandered him."

Source: Musnad ‘Abdullah Ibn Al-Mubārak 2

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Al-Mundhiri

Poem: Clear Signs Of Potential Gossipers And Those Who Enjoy Gossiping

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 "Guess what, some people are saying bad stuff about you.", 

"So-and-so said this and that, but I hope they're not true.", 

And "Do you want to know what they said to describe you?" 

Are the kind of questions from someone who gossips too.

~•~

Signs of gossipers whom we should ditch for Allah's sake, 

As their jokes and lies cause our faith to deteriorate: 

They discuss others' faults, dismissing their own mistakes. 

To transmit fake news and rumors they don't hesitate.

~•~

People's words or acts that hurt them they're quick to restate 

And rant on their Facebook timeline as if it's a stage 

Where those whom they misunderstand are put on display, 

Confirming they're childish when they tarnish others' names.

~•~

More signs of those who may backbite about us someday: 

Loudly stating opinions on whatever they hate 

When their feedback won't help anyone in any way, 

Such as "he's not handsome." and "she gained a lot of weight!"

~•~

The mature who loathe gossip don't rewind nor replay 

Scornful, uncertain and pointless things that people say.

From the speech of wise Muslims: Advice, invites to pray, 

And "Fear Allah! Quit gossiping, as it's not okay.".

~•~

📖 Abdullah Ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: They mentioned a man in front of the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam and they said, "He only eats if he is fed! He only moves if he is made to move!" The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "You have backbitten him." They said, “We only said what is true about him.” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "It is enough sin to mention bad things about your brother."

In another narration, the Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If what you said about him were not true, you would have slandered him."

Source: Musnad ‘Abd Allāh ibn Al-Mubārak 2

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Al-Mundhiri

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Allah does not like for you to waste wealth, nor ask many unnecessary questions, nor spread gossip."

Source: Musnad Al-Bazzār 8463

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 AbdurRahman Ghanm RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The best servants of Allah are those who remind you of Allah when they are seen. The worst servants of Allah and those who spread gossip, separating between loved ones, and causing misery to the innocent."

Source: Musnad Ahmed 17998

Grade: Hasan li ghayrihi according to Al-Arna’ut

https://mjustsharingislam.blogspot.com/2020/04/poem-silence-with-dhikr-is-better-than.html

Poem: Love Your Husband Truly For Allah's Sake And Your Marriage Is Likely To Be Longer-Lasting

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 If you married your husband mainly for his money, 

Your marriage wouldn't last if he got fired suddenly, 

If briefly he started struggling financially, 

And you have little patience to deal with simple means.

~•~

If you agreed to his proposal for his body, 

For your man's overall appearance and sex appeal, 

Can your fierce loyalty last long if Allah decreed 

His injury or if many surpass his beauty?

~•~

If his position and status is why you married, 

Can you guarantee to never leave him in case he 

Became the worst laughingstock in your community? 

Would you be strong enough to support him patiently?

~•~

If you married your soulmate so true love is achieved, 

Will you have the strength to stay faithful devotedly, 

Truly love him for Allah, accept Allah's Decree, 

And be fine with boosting your love to polygyny?

~•~

For a lasting marriage that, with Allah's Will, succeeds 

In both worlds, intend to marry for Allah Only. 

Deeds done to please Allah sincerely are more likely

To go on, despite brief setbacks and difficulties.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If a woman prays her five prayers, fasts her month of Ramadan, guards her chastity, and obeys her husband, she will enter Paradise from any gate she wishes."

Source: Sahih Ibn Hibbān 4252

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If I were to order anyone to prostrate to another, I would have ordered a wife to prostrate before her husband."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 1159

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to At-Tirmidhi

Ali Al-Qari said, "That she prostrates to her husband is due to the number of his rights over her and her difficulty in maintaining gratitude for them. This rhetorical point conveys the obligation of the wife to obey her husband in his rights. Indeed, prostration is not lawful to anyone other than Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala."

Source: Mirqāt Al-Mafātih 5/2125

📖 Abdullah Ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The world is enjoyment and the best enjoyment in the world is a righteous wife."

Source: Sahih Muslim 1467

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

Poem: Advice On How To React Rightly When A Sister In Islam Confesses To You About Confused Feelings

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 "You don't get it, do you? You're the one I'm in love with. 

Each time you mention 'marriage', I feel brokenhearted. 

You pray I'll marry soon, when to you I'm attracted. 

Ever since I noticed your softer side, your kindness, 

And unique perspectives, you've pulled me like a magnet."

~•~

"For years I've had a thing for you too, but suppressed it 

Through acting distant so I wouldn't be distracted 

By how our similar traits to me were magnetic. 

I'd act on this crush, if it weren't prohibited. 

Welcome to dunya where we're differently tested."

~•~

What would you say if a sister in Islam confessed 

To you in a letter, face to face, or text message, 

About their feelings or feeling infatuated, 

And when they're asked to elaborate, they get nervous? 

Sympathize. Pray for them. Admit they're being tested.

~•~

Whether or not you feel the same way, kindly address 

That you love them back for Allah's sake, being honest, 

Tell them, "Lewd thoughts and fantasies which often visit 

Are shaytan's tricks and he wants us to flunk Allah's tests.

Never sacrifice your faith for a forbidden kiss." 

~•~

Remind them, "I love you too for Allah. Please know this, 

We're sisters whose souls with Allah's Will got connected. 

This link shouldn't turn to a haraam relationship 

Wrongly built on lust and shaytan's whispers destructive. 

Deeds that invite fitna should be left and avoided."

~•~

Advise them, "Love for Allah's sake must be moderate.

With yearning to chat with them daily don't be obsessed.

Be sisterly or brief, not flirty, when eyes connect.

Don't go overboard with long hugs, phone calls and visits. 

Pray to Allah that from zina you're both protected."

~•~

Reassure them with, "Allah already selected, 

Reserved and destined for you a spouse. Don't be upset. 

If it's not your Qadr that on earth you'd get married, 

Patiently await Jannah for your perfect marriage. 

Meanwhile, maintain Taqwa and patience to pass all tests."

~•~

📖 Abu Qatadah RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, you will never leave anything for the sake of Allah the Almighty but that Allah will replace it (what you left for Allah's sake) with something better."

Source: Musnad Ahmed 22565

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Jabir RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, what I fear most for my nation is the deed of the people of Lot (Prophet Lut 'alaihis salaam)."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 1374

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Suyuti

Ibn al-Qayyim said, “Sodomy and adultery share in their immorality, for there is corruption in both of them that defies the wisdom of Allah's creation and commandment. Indeed, in sodomy is great corruption whose harms cannot be enumerated.”

Source: Al-Jawāb Al-Kāfī 1/164

📖 Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "A man should not look at the nakedness of another man, and a woman should not look at the nakedness of another woman. A man should not lie with another man under a single blanket, and a woman should not lie with another woman under a single blanket."

Source: Sahih Muslim 338

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

Al-Nawawi said, “Likewise it is forbidden for a man to look at a beardless youth if he has a handsome appearance, whether he looks with passion or not, whether he is safe from temptation or he fears it. This is the correct and preferred opinion of credible scholars, as transmitted from Al-Shafi’i.”

Source: Sharḥ Al-Nawawī ‘alá Sahih Muslim 338

Poem: When Your Husband Disappoints You, Don't Forget His Kindness And The Good Times You've Had Together

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Marriage isn't easy, not something to take lightly, 

Specially if you don't see your spouse regularly, 

If your soulmate works in another city/country, 

Or your romance is more advanced - in polygyny.

~•~

When my husband doesn't answer my text instantly, 

I resist the urge to behave irrationally, 

Recalling he's a doctor who can get real busy, 

And rewinding sweet memories makes me feel relieved.

~•~

I recall how he mostly cooked for us previously, 

Aware I couldn't cook well, despite being twenty, 

How sometimes he'd feed me with his right hand, and how he, 

With Allah's Mercy, from bulimia he helped me heal.

~•~

I recall us discussing me writing 'Anaasheed', 

While he'd play the guitar, sing my words in harmony, 

And we'd form a duet. Nonetheless, Allah decreed 

That wouldn't work when He guided us to piety.

~•~

I remember the car rides he'd give when he was free, 

Showing us where he studied in elementary, 

Answering my weird questions before we'd go to sleep, 

And memorable times when he'd wipe away my tears.

~•~

I still remember how we played occasionally 

Badminton outdoors, in spite of me playing badly, 

How on the phone calls from Makkah he sounded happy, 

And how from most of his trips he'd bring home souvenirs.

~•~

Whenever my husband's absence and delays stress me, 

Three more things I recall, and doing so brings relief:

One - why I married? To please Allah the Almighty.

Two - virtues of patience. Three - after hardship comes ease.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If a woman prays her five prayers, fasts her month of Ramadan, guards her chastity, and obeys her husband, she will enter Paradise from any gate she wishes."

Source: Sahih Ibn Hibbān 4252

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "If I were to order anyone to prostrate to another, I would have ordered a wife to prostrate before her husband."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhī 1159

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to At-Tirmidhi

Ali Al-Qari said, "That she prostrates to her husband is due to the number of his rights over her and her difficulty in maintaining gratitude for them. This rhetorical point conveys the obligation of the wife to obey her husband in his rights. Indeed, prostration is not lawful to anyone other than Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala."

Source: Mirqāt Al-Mafātih 5/2125

📖 Abdullah ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The world is enjoyment and the best enjoyment in the world is a righteous wife."

Source: Sahih Muslim 1467

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

📖 Narrated Abu Sa`eed Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: On Eid-ul-Fitr or Eid-ul-Adha, Allah's Messenger SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam went out to the Musalla. After finishing the prayer, he delivered the sermon and ordered the people to give alms (charity). He (SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam) said, "O people! Give (charity) alms." Then he went towards the women and said. "O women! Give (charity) alms, for I have seen that the majority of the dwellers of Hellfire were you (women)." The women asked, "O Allah's Messenger! What is the reason for it?" He replied, "O women! You curse frequently, and are ungrateful to your husbands. I have not seen anyone more deficient in intelligence and religion than you. O women, some of you can lead a cautious wise man astray." Then he (SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam) left. And when he reached his house, Zainab, the wife of Ibn Mas`ud, came and asked permission to enter It was said, "O Allah's Messenger! It is Zainab." He asked, 'Which Zainab?" The reply was that she was the wife of Ibn Mas'ud (RadhiAllahu 'anhu). He said, "Yes, allow her to enter." And she was admitted. Then she said, "O Prophet of Allah! Today you ordered people to give alms and I had an ornament and intended to give it as alms, but Ibn Mas`ud said that he and his children deserved it more than anybody else." The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam replied, "Ibn Mas`ud had spoken the truth. Your husband and your children had more right to it than anybody else."

Sahih Al-Bukhari 1462

In-book reference: Book 24, Hadith 65

USC-MSA web (English) reference: Vol. 2, Book 24, Hadith 541

Poem: Reminder To Respect One's Parents Even If They're Not Muslims Yet

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 What's up with young Muslims who disrespect their old folks,

Being nice to their peers yet not doing what they're told

By their loving parents who took care of them before -

Teens talking back at them, whining, snapping, banging doors.

~•~

Funny how they're friendly with their classmates yet so mean

Towards their parents who nourished them in infancy,

Close with those their age, talking to them comfortably,

But in their parents' presence they hesitate to speak.

~•~

Don't they know after Allah's Command to worship Him

Comes the obligation to serve and love one's parents?

Allah Willed that it's through them we came to existence,

And the love which they showed us is for our well-being.

~•~

When our dearest parents raise their voice at us, they care.

They want to ensure we win and not turn to losers.

Being more experienced than us as they are older,

We ought to accept their advice as they know better.

~•~

No matter how much you want some things if they say no,

Specially if your desires go against Allah's Laws,

Obey them, leave the forbidden and don't feel at loss,

Sooner or later you'll learn they were strict out of love.

~•~

Fulfill your job to Allah the Almighty firstly,

Collect as many as you can of good deeds you'll need.

Let kindness to your parents on the Scales be heavy,

Along with Taqwa and good morals they used to teach.

~•~

The more smiles you give to them the more Allah loves you.

Mend them when they're wrong, guide them in what they say and do.

Do your utmost to serve your parents while you stay true,

If you're respectful, your children will respect you too.

~•~

🌻 Allah the Almighty says: "Your Rabb (Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala) has decreed that you worship none but Him, and that you be good towards your parents. Whether one or both of them reach old age with you, do not say to them a word of annoyance (even as minor as disrespectfully saying "uff") and do not repel them, but rather speak to them a noble word. Lower to them the wing of humility for them, out of mercy, and say: 'My Rabb (Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala), have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was small.'" [Surah Al-Israa 17:23-24]

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: A man asked the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam “Who is most deserving of my good company?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “Your mother.” The man asked, “Then who?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “Your father.”

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 5626

Sahih Muslim 2548

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

Poem: Letter To The Young Muslim Reverts And Those New To Islam

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Tribute to Muslim reverts, specially those so young, 

In their teens or twenties who truly embraced Islam: 

May Allah the Almighty keep you strong in Imaan, 

Grant you patience to abandon all the haraam fun, 

And to the Deen of Allah's Prophets guide your loved ones. Ameen.

~•~

It's inspiring to know you try your best to study 

And learn about Islam, while valuing modesty, 

Unafraid of critics from non-Muslim families, 

As you don't aim to please people but Allah Only, 

Who saw your good heart and gifted you with right belief.

~•~

Such a notable deed that you left them all behind - 

Sins you did when Islam you didn't yet recognize, 

From wearing immodest clothes, being too chill with guys, 

Enjoying songs, gossiping, and watching what you liked.

It takes tough souls to sacrifice what the nafs desires.

~•~

I admire your trust in Allah, choice to keep going, 

And refusal to give up despite criticism 

From non-Muslims who think you've made "the wrong decision", 

Peers who assume you're "judgmental" when you advise them, 

And some born Muslims who suspect you're "just pretending".

~•~

Persevere for Allah's sake. Be steadfast, resilient, 

Persistent, determined and patient as a Muslim.

Know the more Allah loves us, the more we'll be challenged 

To be purified from past sins, have Imaan strengthened, 

Till Allah is Pleased that we did our best to serve Him.

~•~

📖 Sufyan Ibn Abdullah RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: I said, "O Messenger of Allah, tell me of a word in Islam I will not need to ask of anyone after you." The Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Say, 'I have faith in Allah,' and then remain steadfast."

Source: Sahih Muslim 38

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

📖 Abdullah Ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "We are now in this day. Blessed are the strangers." It was said, “O Messenger of Allah, who are the strangers?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Righteous people among many evil people. Those who disobey them are more numerous than those who obey them."

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Ahmed Shakir

📖 Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "A Muslim is the one who avoids harming the Muslims with his tongue and hands. And a Muhaajir (emigrant) is the one who gives up (abandons) all what Allah has forbidden."

Reference: Sahih Al-Bukhari 10

In-book reference: Book 2, Hadith 3

USC-MSA web (English) reference: Vol. 1, Book 2, Hadith 10

https://mjustsharingislam.blogspot.com/2020/11/poem-dear-muslim-revert.html

Poem: The More We Remember Death Regularly, Dunya's Pleasures Become Less Appealing

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 It feels good, doesn't it? To vividly visualize 

What it would be like to kiss your crush whom you admire?

To relish all delightful dishes your taste buds like, 

To receive compliments on selfies you post online, 

And get back savagely at each person you dislike?

~•~

It's amazing, sensational, brings massive delight 

To be able to act on your desires, am I right? 

No. It's Allah's rival and our foe who beautifies 

The most abhorrent and wicked acts so they're desired 

By souls who don't know yet about the truth of this life.

~•~

Zina, same-sex affairs, and flirting just gratify 

Those who've forgotten that death can take place anytime.

Major sins, such as gossiping, stealing, telling lies, 

Disrespecting one's parents, and bribery entice 

Those unaware of their rulings and yearn for long lives.

~•~

When shaytan wants your faith spoiled and helps you fantasize 

About kissing someone who can't be your husband/wife, 

Or disclosing the secrets of ex-friends you despise, 

Or living luxuriously like there's no afterlife, 

Realize we're here to serve Allah, not our desires.

~•~

Remind ourselves as often as we can, day and night,

Of our main purpose - to worship Allah the Most Wise, 

Who gave us life to pass His tests, to do what is right, 

And to try our best to be worthy of Paradise.

Be prepared with good deeds. Death can occur anytime.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Remember often the destroyer of pleasures," by which he meant death.

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 2307

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Ibn Umar RadhiAllahu 'anhuma narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler along a path."

Ibn Umar RadhiAllahu 'anhuma would say, “If you make it to the evening, do not wait for the morning. If you make it to the morning, do not wait for the evening. Take from your health for your sickness, and from your life for your death.”

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 6053

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Bukhari

📖 Ibn Umar RadhiAllahu 'anhuma narrated: A man said, "O Messenger of Allah, which of the believers is the best?" The Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Those with the best character." The man said, "Which of the believers is the wisest?" The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Those who remember death often and have best prepared for it with good deeds; those are the wisest."

Source: Sunan Ibn Mājah 4259

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Al-Albani

https://m.soundcloud.com/salafiyyah-1/death-the-destroer-of-lust-desire-hasan-as-somali

Poem: Advice On Dealing With Mockery As A Niqabi Muslimah

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 I understand why some people laugh when I'm outdoors, 

Wearing niqab, 'abaya and face shield at some stores, 

Or in the streets passing by some folks who giggle, scorn, 

And stare with derision at traditions they don't know.

It's sad if they were brought up to be morally low.

~•~

Some find me "strange" or "extreme". To me they're just shallow, 

Ignorant, unaware of different kinds of clothes 

And customs of various religions around the world.

So long as I do something to please Allah alone,

It's not an issue if some think I'm a huge weirdo.

~•~

Let scorners laugh. These "adults" likely haven't yet grown.

Through their mockery their immaturity is shown.

Probably they've never traveled yet around the globe,

People of other cultures and tribes they haven't known, 

Or they're just closed-minded, so to ignorance they're prone.

~•~

For Allah's sake stay patient with their laughter, insults, 

And stares. That they act ignorantly it's not your fault.

Many laugh at what they don't understand, by default.

Thus when you're laughed at for the way you're modestly clothed, 

Note the sneering oafs are insecure or they don't know.

~•~

Da'wah can be done indirectly through modest clothes. 

If you maintain manners, patience, and control ego, 

Some may research Islam when they return to their homes.

Continue serving Allah and His slaves' scorn ignore.

Deeds for Allah don't decrease by people's jokes and slurs.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The strong believer is more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, but there is goodness in both of them. Be eager for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not be frustrated. If something befalls you, then do not say: 'If only I had done something else.' Rather say: 'Allah has decreed what He wills.' Verily, the phrase ‘if only’ opens the way for the work of shaytan."

Source: Sahih Muslim 2664

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim

Hadith: Best Du'a / Supplication For Seeking Allah's Forgiveness ('Sayyid Al-Istighfaar')

📖 Shaddad bin Aus RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The best supplication for seeking forgiveness ('Sayyid-ul- Istighfaar') is to say: 'Allahumma Anta Rabbi, laa ilaaha illaa Anta, khalaqtani wa ana 'abduka, wa ana 'alaa 'ahdika wa wa'duka mastata't, a'udhu Bika min sharri maa sana't, abu'u Laka bini'matika 'alayy, wa abu'u bidhanbi faghfir lee, fa innahu la yaghfirudh-dhunooba illaa Anta. (O Allah! You are my Rabb (Lord, Cherisher and Sustainer). There is no true god except You. You (Allah) have created me, and I am Your slave, and I hold to Your Covenant as far as I can. I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done. I acknowledge the favours that You (Allah) have bestowed upon me, and I confess my sins. Pardon me, for none but You (Allah) has the power to pardon).' He who supplicates in these terms during the day with firm belief in it and dies on the same day (before the evening), he will be one of the dwellers of Paradise; and if anyone supplicates in these terms during the night with firm belief in it and dies before the morning, he will be one of the dwellers of Paradise."

[Sahih Al-Bukhari]

Reference: Riyad As-Salihin 1875

In-book reference: Book 19, Hadith 7

Poem: Friendship With INTJs - What Are INTJ Friends Like?

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 What kind of friend would an INTJ Muslim make?

How do INTJ friends generally behave?

What are their habits when they love you for Allah's sake?

People whose MBTI type is INTJ 

Are strictly selective with who they associate.

~•~

Since they're fine with solitude, they don't investigate 

And desperately search for friends with similar traits.

Nonetheless, if they've found in you quirks they can relate 

To, while your authenticity you kindly display, 

They'll reach out, initiate talks and reciprocate.

~•~

Gossiping, bullying, discussing people's mistakes, 

Narrating lies and rumors are nonsense that they hate.

Tease them sometimes? They'll forgive. But if you irritate 

Them purposely, they'll sense you're toxic and walk away 

Gladly, to preserve their well-being, morals and faith.

~•~

To share frank opinions and feedback they're unafraid. 

Quick to defend you when some try to humiliate 

Or besmirch your name, they won't cowardly hesitate 

To back you up with comebacks against bullies untamed.

Though they avoid conflict, they're not fearful of debates.

~•~

INTJ friends are willing to cooperate 

With you if your projects aren't logically debased.

Human flaws and innocent faults they can tolerate.

What they can't stand is when someone's dishonest and fake, 

Pretending to like them just to attain selfish gains.

~•~

To maintain friendship with those who are INTJ:

You'll need profound patience when their replies are delayed.

Don't feel distressed if at your jokes they can't laugh always, 

If they harshly critique so your skills you can upgrade, 

And if they're not touchy-feely - let them instigate.

~•~

To annoy and disconnect from an INTJ: 

Rudely roll your eyes when there's something they want to say. 

Doubt their intention, gossip, childishly misbehave, 

Call them "arrogant", proudly repeat your epic fails, 

And betray them - Do those? They'll dump you without dismay.

~•~

📖 Abu Umamah RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Whoever loves for the sake of Allah, hates for the sake of Allah, gives for the sake of Allah, and withholds for the sake of Allah has perfected the faith."

Source: Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4681

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Love whom you love moderately, perhaps he will become hateful to you someday. Hate whom you hate moderately, perhaps he will become your beloved friend someday."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 1997

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "A man is upon the religion of his close friend, so let one of you look at whom he befriends."

Source: Sunan At-Tirmidhi 2378

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Nawawi

http://www.michaelcaloz.com/personality/

https://introvertdear.com/news/10-things-intjs-absolutely-must-have-in-a-friendship/

https://personalitygrowth.com/intj-friendships-how-the-intj-is-as-a-bff/

Poem: To Those Who Suspect Others' Niyyah And Accuse Without Proofs

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 To those who project their wicked traits onto others, 

Who act like they read minds, see hearts and unseen matters, 

Who accuse people of "riyaa" when they're the braggers, 

And who claim we tell lies whilst they're the frequent liars:

Do you get paid to be fault-finders and accusers?

~•~

Is that your hobby or habit to search for errors 

In others to conceal your guilt of those same matters?

How you interpret a Muslim's actions uncovers 

Your inner thoughts, upbringing, and actual character.

Naturally you'd spot things that seem, to you, familiar.

~•~

So if you instantly assume someone's a "boaster" 

Who's "desperate for attention" or who's "insincere", 

Perhaps you're the one who's eager for more likes and shares, 

Who sometimes utters words that are untrue or unclear? 

Traits you notice in others may be things you hold dear.

~•~

The similitude of those who like to point fingers 

And blame others is that of a shameful shoplifter, 

Who steals what he wants then accuses other shoppers 

Of the very same thing he does before departure.

Such awful tactic befits the weak and insecure.

~•~

A closeted gay would accuse you of being "queer", 

Those who've stolen before may theorize you're the "thief", 

And one with pride may guess you're "arrogant" or "snobby".

Critics' wrong impressions describe their reality 

Usually when they're guilty of intense jealousy.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "The believer is a mirror to his faithful brother. He protects him against loss and defends him behind his back." 

Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu said, 'The believer is a mirror to his brother. If he sees something wrong in him, he should correct it.' 

Source: Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 239 

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Al-Albani 

📖 Ibn Mas’ud RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: The Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam was distributing charity when a man from the Ansaar said, “By Allah, Muhammad did not intend to please Allah with this!” I came to the Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam and told him about it, then anger could be seen on his face. The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Moses (Prophet Musa 'alaihis salaam) was hurt by more than this, yet he remained patient."

In another narration, the Prophet Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Who will be just if not Allah and His Messenger?"

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 5712, Sahih Muslim 1062

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

📖 Abu Dharr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "A man does not accuse another man of wickedness or disbelief except that it will be turned against him, if his companion is innocent."

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 5698

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Bukhari

Poem: Tribute To Every Confident Muslimah Who Strives To Serve Allah The Almighty

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Because she knows Allah is watching, and she trusts Him,

She walks among the crowd not caring what people think.

With her hijab, niqab and long abaya flowing,

She's like a queen whose strong Imaan keeps her confident.

~•~

It's okay if spectators laugh as she passes by.

The wise don't interact with those whose tactics hold lies.

Scowls and spiteful remarks simply make her smile inside,

Grateful for the rewards she earns when haters deride.

~•~

Maybe she's quiet while brave modesty speaks for her.

Her hijab is a statement that she isn't bothered

To be up to date with fashion and its low standards.

Meeting Allah in Jannah is what truly matters.

~•~

Her jilbab, khimar and abaya speak volumes too,

Confirming she loves Allah the most with gratitude,

Not minding if like-minded friends range from none to few,

Concerned only with Allah's Love as her faith stays true.

~•~

A Muslimah with a mission to deserve Jannah,

She does whatever she can to please Only Allah,

By obeying Allah's Commands, loving the Sunnah,

And surviving each trial with patience and Taqwa.

~•~

📖 Ubadah ibn As-Samit RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated that Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, among the best of faith is that you know Allah is with you wherever you are."

Source: Al-Mu’jam Al-Awsat 8791

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Ibn Taymiyyah

📖 Abdullah Ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "We are now in this day. Blessed are the strangers." It was said, “O Messenger of Allah, who are the strangers?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Righteous people among many evil people. Those who disobey them are more numerous than those who obey them."

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Ahmed Shakir

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Islam began as something strange and it will return to being strange, so Tooba (or glad tidings) to the strangers."

Source: Sahih Muslim 145

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Muslim 

📖 Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: A man said to the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam him, “What is Tooba (Qur'an 13:29)?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "It is a tree in Paradise as wide as a hundred years of travel. The clothes of the people of Paradise will come from its leaves."

Source: Sahih Ibn Ḥibbān 7573

Grade: Sahih li ghayrihi according to Al-Albani 

Poem: Quick Reminder To Fellow Orphans

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Quick letter of comfort to fellow orphan adults,

Who every once in a while miss their beloved folks:

No worries - You'll see your Muslim parents again soon

In Jannah for their faith and good deeds they used to do.

~•~

Even if you were unable to tell them goodbye,

Keep praying to Allah in Jannah you'll reunite.

In Jannatul Ferdaus you can bond with them again,

With Allah's Will. Strive to do good and repent from sins.

~•~

Of the best actions you can do for your parents are

Sincerely mentioning them in your daily Du'as,

Praying that Allah forgives them, accept their good deeds,

Charity on their behalf, treating their friends nicely.

~•~

Never get tired of talking about them to Allah,

Your parents can benefit from your loving Du'as.

Let your tears that fall when you miss them erase past sins.

Keep praying that Allah reunites you in Heaven.

~•~

If you couldn't do enough to show your parents love

Back then, don't give up - compensate with lots of Du'as.

May Allah the Most Just grant our dear parents Mercy,

And make Jannah the place we finally meet. Ameen.

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, Allah the Almighty will raise the status of His righteous servants in Paradise and they will say: 'O Allah, what is this?' Allah will say: 'This is due to your child seeking forgiveness for you.'"

Source: Musnad Ahmed 10232

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Al-Albani

Note: Importance Of Doing Good Deeds Only To Please Allah, Not His Servants.

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala knows best. "Riyaa" is to do a good deed for the sake of people when it should be done solely to please Allah the All-Knowing. "Riyaa" is doing righteous actions which Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala commanded, not to obey Him but to impress His servants or show off that one is more superior in terms of piety and religiousness.

🔹Examples of "Riyaa":

1] Doing charity and giving relief goods to the needy, while taking photos of themselves to upload the pictures on social media mainly to display they're generous or wealthy enough to assist others financially. Pleasing Allah the Almighty and trying to inspire others to do the same so they can be closer to Allah are not what they intend to do.

2] Taking a photo of your prayer mat after you've prayed Taraweeh or Tahajjud then uploading it so your stalkers can be impressed by how pious you appear.

3] Offering free Islamic lectures not to spread Allah's Message and advise others for Allah's sake, but to portray how much Islamic knowledge you have and showcase your ability to understand Arabic language.

4] Posting selfies with a verse from the Noble Qur'an or a Hadith with the purpose of gaining many fans as though you're some sort of religious celebrity.

5] Cooking a special exotic dish and handing it to a particular somebody with the goal of proving your culinary skills or highlighting your expertise at preparing fancy international dishes. Your motive isn't to feed the hungry and fasting for Allah's sake but to make them realize you're a competent, creative and charitable chef.

6] Typing status updates to demonstrate how linguistically capable and intelligent you are, instead of sincerely doing Da'wah and striving to call others towards Allah's Way.

7] Sharing Islamic posts and links not to encourage Muslims to seek authentic knowledge of Islam and join you in the path to Jannah, but actually doing so to gain likes and followers.

🔶Tips to avoid "Riyaa" / showing off:

1] Before doing anything, pause and actively purify your niyyah/intention. Ensure that all your good deeds are done only to please Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala Who sees His slaves' hearts and conditions.

2] Say Du'a and beg Allah the Most Merciful that He keeps you sincere, accepts your good deeds and that the rewards of serving Him aren't wasted.

3] Do more good deeds for the sake of Allah Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala in private which do not require an audience. Pray Qiyaam Al-Layl and Salat Ad-Duha often, feed birds and stray cats, fast Sunnah fasts regularly (every other Monday and Thursday etc.) without letting anybody know you're fasting, and give what you can of financial assistance to the poor without broadcasting your generosity.

4] Even if you're falsely accused of showing off and "Riyaa", steadfastly continue doing the good deeds which you believe can lead you closer to Allah's Love.

5] One of shaytan's traps to prevent Muslims from their duty to enjoin right and forbid evil is threatening them with the likelihood of committing "Riyaa". Don't listen to shaytan's waswaas. If you are certain that an action can lead to Jannah Paradise, especially if it is a Sadaqah Jaariyah, then keep doing it for Allah's sake with pure intention, regardless of critics' wrong assumptions.

~*~

Major Sins - Showing off in Acts of Worship (Ar-Riya) - Abu Hakeem Bilal Davis

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-iAFRRaSrE

📖 Mahmud Ibn Labid RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “Verily, my greater fear for you is the lesser idolatry (minor shirk/polytheism).” They said, “What is the lesser idolatry, O Messenger of Allah?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “It is ostentation. Allah the Almighty will say to them on the Day of Resurrection, when people are being recompensed for their deeds: 'Go to those for whom you made a show in the world and look, do you find any reward with them?'"

Source: Musnad Ahmed 23119

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: The Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam came to us while we were discussing the False Messiah (the dajjaal). The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “Shall I not tell you about my greater fear for you than the False Messiah?” We said, “Of course!” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “It is hidden idolatry (riyaa), that a man stands for prayer and beautifies his prayer when he sees another man looking at him.”

Source: Sunan Ibn Mājah 4204

Grade: Hasan (Fair) according to Al-Albani

📖 Umar Ibn Al-Khattab RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Verily, deeds are only with intentions. Verily, every person will have only what they intended. Whoever emigrated to Allah and His Messenger, his emigration is for Allah and His Messenger (SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam). Whoever emigrated to get something in the world or to marry a woman, his emigration is for that to which he emigrated."

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 54, Sahih Muslim 1907

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

Poem: Don't Compare Your Life Journey To Others' Lives Which Allah Gave

💐 In The Name Of Allah The Most Gracious The Most Merciful

💌 Visualize characters represented by letters, 

Unsatisfied with the wisdom in Allah's Qadr. 

No matter what they have of gifts and worldly pleasures, 

They can't be happy if they keep envying others.

~•~

"A" is jealous of "B" as "B" was kindly offered 

A promotion as an executive director. 

"B" jealously resents "C" who is much wealthier, 

Founder of halal restaurants with frequent diners.

~•~

"C" envies "D" for the way "D" inspires listeners 

To be confident, and many books she has authored.

"D" can't deny she's jealous of "E" who's a mother 

Of two sets of twins who look as good-looking as her.

~•~

"E" admits she envies "F" for having a lover

Who's readily available and sweeter than hers. 

"F" confirms she's jealous of how "G" is popular 

Online and how she has tons of YouTube subscribers.

~•~

"G" knows she's envious of how "H" has supporters 

From her fam while "H" has many sisters, unlike her.

"H" acknowledges she admires "I", a wise teacher 

Who does her job well and students can confide in her.

~•~

"I" jealously resents "J", a creative baker 

Who works from home with many supportive customers. 

"J" knows she's jealous of "K" who married a doctor 

And as her husband's assistant they work together. 

~•~

"K" realizes she envies "L" who's prettier, 

Who's taller and exotic with an Arab father.

"L" agrees she's slightly jealous of "M", a daughter 

Whose mom is still alive, while after birth she lost hers.

~•~

"M" senses some jealousy each time "N" delivers 

News that numbers embraced Islam after her lectures. 

"N" can't deny her envy whenever "O" gathers 

The poor to clothe and feed them. In kindness, she's better.

~•~

"O" gets jealous of her half-sister "P" whenever

"P" gets to spend more quality time with their father. 

"P" confirms she envies "Q", one of her co-workers 

Who knows many languages, as a fluent speaker.

~•~

"Q", "R", "S", "T" and "U" - all regular travelers 

Oft find themselves envying those they deem "superior", 

Unaware that "V", "W" and "X" from afar 

Envy their lives that also leave "Y" and "Z" triggered.

~•~

Regardless of what Allah gave of joys and favors, 

Every once in a while on earth we may encounter 

People who have more, which trains us to practice Sabr. 

Those with less teach us to thank Allah, without kibr.

~•~

Tips to not feel defeated by envying others: 

Believe that what Allah gives and to whom He offers 

His blessings, and what He withholds, are from His Qadr.

As Muslims, pass Allah's tests with Sabr and Shukr.

~•~

The winners in both worlds aren't those who are richer, 

Prettier or who most enjoy life's toys and treasures, 

But the best of believers are those who don't suffer 

From envy. Soft hearts help them win in the Hereafter.

~•~

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Look to those below you and do not look at those above you, for it is the best way not to belittle the favors of Allah."

Source: Sahih Al-Bukhari 6125

Sahih Muslim 2963

Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi (Authenticity agreed upon) according to Al-Bukhari and Muslim

📖 Abdullah Ibn Amr RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: I said, “O Messenger of Allah, who are the best people?” The Messenger of Allah SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, “One with a heart swept clean and truthful in speech.” We said, “O Messenger of Allah, we know truthful in speech. What is a heart swept clean?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "One that is mindful of Allah and pure, in which there is no sin, nor aggression, nor envy." We said, “Who shows a sign of it?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "One who hates worldliness and loves the Hereafter." They said, “And who shows a sign of it?” The Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "A believer with good character."

Source: Shu’ab Al-Imān 4457

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani

📖 Abu Huraira RadhiAllahu 'anhu narrated: Allah's noble Messenger Muhammad SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Faith and envy do not combine within a believing servant."

In another narration, the Prophet SallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam said, "Greed and faith are never combined in the heart of a servant."

Source: Sunan Al-Nasā’ī 3109

Grade: Sahih (Authentic) according to Al-Albani