3. Remembering Allah & Gratitude, Fear And Hope

IN SAHIH BUKHARI

Sahih Bukhari
BOOK 18: Eclipses

Sahih Bukhari > 18:Eclipsses
CHAPTER 7. To remember Allah during the eclipse.

2:167 Narrated by Abu Musa
The sun eclipsed and the Prophet got up, being afraid that it might be the Hour (i.e. Day of Judgment). He went to the Mosque and offered the prayer with the longest Qiyam, bowing and prostration that I had ever seen him doing. Then he said, “These signs which Allah sends do not occur because of the life or death of somebody, but Allah makes His worshipers afraid by them. So when you see anything thereof, proceed to remember Allah, invoke Him and ask for His forgiveness.”

 Sahih Bukhari >
BOOK 33: Retiring to a Mosque for remembrance of Allah(I’tikaf)

Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
CHAPTER 1. The I’tikâf in the last ten days of Ramadân. And I’tikâf may be practiced in any mosque.

3:243 Narrated by ‘Aisha
(The wife of the Prophet) The Prophet used to practice Itikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan till he died and then his wives used to practice Itikaf after him.

 Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
CHAPTER 2. (A Mu’takif is) not (allowed) to enter the house except for a need.

3:246 Narrated by ‘Aisha
(The wife of the Prophet) Allah’s Apostle used to let his head in (the house) while he was in the mosque and I would comb and oil his hair. When in Itikaf he used not to enter the house except for a need.

 Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
CHAPTER 3. The I’tikaf at night (only).

3:248 Narrated by Ibn ‘Umar
Umar asked the Prophet “I vowed in the Pre-lslamic period of ignorance to stay in Itikaf for one night in Al-Masjid al-Haram.” The Prophet said to him, “Fulfill your vow.”

 Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
CHAPTER 4. The tents in the mosque.

3:250 Narrated by ‘Aisha
The Prophet intended to practice Itikaf and when he reached the place where he intended to perform Itikaf, he saw some tents, the tents of ‘Aisha, Hafsa and Zainab. So, he said, “Do you consider that they intended to do righteousness by doing this?” And then he went away and did not perform Itikaf (in Ramadan) but performed it in the month of Shawwal for ten days.

 Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
CHAPTER 5. Can a Mu’takif go to the gate of the mosque for a need?

3:251 Narrated by Ali bin Al-Husain
Safiya, the wife of the Prophet told me that she went to Allah’s Apostle to visit him in the mosque while he was in Itikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan. She had a talk with him for a while, then she got up in order to return home. The Prophet accompanied her. When they reached the gate of the mosque, opposite the door of Um-Salama, two Ansari men were passing by and they greeted Allah’s Apostle . He told them: Do not run away! And said, “She is (my wife) Safiya bint Huyai.” Both of them said, “Subhan Allah, (How dare we think of any evil) O Allah’s Apostle!” And they felt it. The Prophet said (to them), “Satan reaches everywhere in the human body as blood reaches in it, (everywhere in one’s body). I was afraid lest Satan might insert an evil thought in your minds.”

 Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
CHAPTER 6. I’tikaf in the middle ten days of Ramadân.

3:260 Narrated by Abu Huraira
The Prophet used to perform Itikaf every year in the month of Ramadan for ten days, and when it was the year of his death, he stayed in Itikaf for twenty days.

Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
BOOK 73: Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab)

Chapter 96 : The signs of loving Allah

73:189 Narrated `Abdullah:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Everyone will be with those whom he loves.”

73:190 Narrated `Abdullah bin Mas`ud:
A man came to Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and said, “O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ)! What do you say about a man who loves some people but cannot catch up with their good deeds?” Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “Everyone will be with those whom he loves.”

73:191 Narrated Abu Musa:
It was said to the Prophet; , “A man may love some people but he cannot catch up with their good deeds?” The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Everyone will be with those whom he loves.”

73:192 Narrated Anas bin Malik:
A man asked the Prophet (ﷺ) “When will the Hour be established O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ)?” The Prophet (ﷺ) . said, “What have you prepared for it?” The man said, ” I haven’t prepared for it much of prayers or fast or alms, but I love Allah and His Apostle.” The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “You will be with those whom you love.”

Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
Chapter 105: The most beloved names to Allah ‘Azza wa Jall

73:193 Narrated Jabir:
A boy was born for a man among us, and the man named him Al-Qasim. We said to him, “We will not call you Abu-l-Qasim, nor will we respect you for that.” The Prophet (ﷺ) was informed about that, and he said, “Name your son `Abdur-Rahman.”

Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
Chapter 121 : The saying of Takbir and Tasbih at the time of wonder

73:194 Narrated Um Salama:
(One night) the Prophet (ﷺ) woke up and said, “Subhan Allah ! How many treasures have been (disclosed) sent down! And how many afflictions have been descended! Who will go and wake the sleeping ladyoccupants up of these dwellings (for praying)?” (He meant by this his wives.) The Prophet (ﷺ) added, “A well-dressed soul (person) in this world may be naked in the “Hereafter.” `Umar said, “I asked the Prophet, ‘Have you divorced your wives?’ He said, ‘No.’ I said, ‘Allahu Akbar.’ “

73:195 Narrated Safiya bint Huyai:
The wife of the Prophet (ﷺ) that she went to Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) while he was in I`tikaf (staying in the mosque) during the last ten nights of the month of Ramadan. She spoke to him for an hour (a while) at night and then she got up to return home. The Prophet (ﷺ) got up to accompany her, and when they reached the gate of the mosque opposite the dwelling place of Um Salama, the wife of the Prophet, two Ansari men passed by, and greeting Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) , they quickly went ahead. Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said to them, “Do not be in a hurry She is Safiya, the daughter of Huyai.” They said, “Subhan Allah! O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) (how dare we suspect you).” That was a great thing for both of them. The Prophet (ﷺ) then said, “Satan runs in the body of Adam’s son (i.e. man) as his blood circulates in it, and I was afraid that he (Satan) might insert an evil thought in your hearts.”

Sahih Bukhari >
BOOK 76: Softening the Heart

Sahih Bukhari > 76: Softening the Heart
CHAPTER 11. Hope (that Allah will forgive one’s sins and will accept one’s good deeds) with fear (of Allah).

8:476  Narrated Abü Huraira:
I heard Allah’s Messenger saying: Had a disbeliever known of all the Mercy which is in the Hands of Allah, he would not lose hope of entering Paradise, and had a believer known of all the punishment which is present with Allah, he would not consider himself safe from the Hell-fire.”

 Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
CHAPTER 21. ‘Whoever loves to meet Allah, Allah (too) loves to meet him.’

8:514 Narrated ‘Ubâda bin As-Samit:
The Prophet said, “Whoever loves to meet Allah, Allah (too) loves to meet him and whoever hates to meet Allah, Allah (too) hates to meet him”. ‘Aisha, or some of the wives of the Prophet, said, “But we dislike death.” He said, “It is not like this, but it is meant that when the time of the death of a believer approaches, he receives the good news of Allah’s Pleasure with him and His Blessings upon him, and so at that time nothing is dearer to him than what is in front of him. He therefore loves the meeting with Allah, and Allah. (too) loves the meeting with him. But when the time of the death of a disbeliever approaches, he receives the evil news of Allah’s Torment and His Requital, whereupon nothing is more hateful to him than what is before him. Therefore, he hates the meeting with Allah, and Allah too, hates the meeting with him.”

Sahih Bukhari > 33:Retiring to a Mosque for Dhikr
CHAPTER 22. The stupors of death.

8:518 Narrated ‘Aisha :
Some rough bedouins used to visit the Prophet and ask him, “When will the Hour be?” He would look at the youngest of all of them and say, “If this should live till he is very old, your Hour (the death of the people addressed) will take place.” [Hishâm said that he meant (by the Hour), their death].

IN SAHIH MUSLIM:

Book 32: The Book Of Virtue, Good Manners And Joining Of The Ties Of Relationship (Kitab Al-birr Was-salat-i-wa’l-adab)

Chapter 37: It is forbidden to become frustrated in regard to the mercy of Allah

Book 32: Number 6350: Jundub reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) stated that a person said: Allah would not forgive such and such (person). Thereupon Allah the Exalted and Glorious, said: Who is he who adjures about Me that I would not grant pardon to so and so; I have granted pardon to so and so and blotted out his deeds (who took an oath that I would not grant pardon to him).

Sahih Muslim >
Book 35: The Book Pertaining To The Remembrance Of Allah, Supplication, Repentance And Seeking Forgiveness (Kitab Al-dhikr)

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 1: Exhortation for the remembrance of Allah, the Exalted

Book 35: Number 6471: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying that Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, thus stated: I am near to the thought of My servant as he thinks about Me, and I am with him as he remembers Me. And if he remembers Me in his heart, I also remember him in My Heart, and if he remembers Me in assembly I remember him in assembly, better than his (remembrance), and if he draws near Me by the span of a palm, I draw near him by the cubit, and if he draws near Me by the cubit I draw near him by the space (covered by) two hands. And if he walks towards Me, I rush towards him.

Book 35: Number 6472: This hadith has been narrated on the authority of A’mash with the same chain of transmitters, but there is no mention of these words:” He draws near Me by the space of a hand, I draw near him by the space (covered) by two hands.”

Book 35: Number 6473: Hammam b. Munabbih reported so many ahadith from Abu Huraira and one out of them is this that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) said that Allah thus stated: When My servant draws close to me by the span of a palm, I draw close to him by the space of a cubit, and when he draws close to Me by the space of a cubit, I draw close to him by the space (covered) by two hands, and when he draws close to Me by the space (covered by) two hands, I go in hurry towards him.

Book 35: Number 6474: Abu Huraira reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) was travelling along the path leading to Mecca that he happened to pass by a mountain called Jumdan. He said: Proceed on, it is Jumdan, Mufarradun have gone ahead. They (the Companions of the Holy Prophet) said: Allah’s Messenger, who are Mufarradun? He said: They are those males and females who remember Allah much.

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 2: The names of Allah, the Exalted, and the merit of one who enumerates them

Book 35: Number 6475: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: There are ninety nine names of Allah; he who commits them to memory would get into Paradise. Verily, Allah is Odd (He is one, and it is an odd number) and He loves odd number. And in the narration of Ibn ‘Umar (the words are):” He who enumerated them.”

Book 35: Number 6476: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) as saying: Verily, there are ninety nine names for Allah, i. e. hundred excepting one. He who enumerates them would get into Paradise. And Hammam has made this addition on the authority of Abu Huraira who reported it from Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) that he said:” He is Odd (one) and loves odd number.”

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 5: He who loves to meet Allah, Allah also loves to meet him, and he who dislikes to meet Allah, Allah also abhors to meet him

Book 35: Number 6486: Ubida b. Samit reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: He who loves to meet Allah, Allah also loves to meet him, and he who dislikes to meet Allah, Allah also abhors to meet him.

Book 35: Number 6487: This hadith has been narrated on the authority of ‘Ubada b. Samit through another chain of transmitters.

Book 35: Number 6488: A’isha reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: He who loves to meet Allah, Allah loves to meet him, and he who dislikes to meet Allah, Allah abhors to meet him. I (‘A’isha) said: Allah’s Apostle, so far as the feeling of aversion against death is concerned, we all have this feeling. Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: It is not that (which you construe), but (this) that when a believer (at the time of death) is given the glad tidings of the mercy of Allah, His Pleasure, and of Paradise, he loves to meet Allah, and Allah also loves to meet him, and when an unbeliever is given the news of the torment at the Hand of Allah, and Hardship to be imposed by Him, he dislikes to meet Allah and Allah also abhors to meet him.

Book 35: Number 6489: This hadith has been reported on the authority of Qatida with the same chain of transmitters.

Book 35: Number 6490: ‘A’isha reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: He who loves to meet Allah, Allah also loves to meet him, and who dislikes to meet Allah, Allah abhors to meet him. There is death before (one is able to) meet Allah.

Book 35: Number 6491: A hadith like this has been narrated on the authority of A’isha through another chain of transmitters.

Book 35: Number 6492: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: He who loves meeting Allah, Allah loves to meet him, and he who dislikes to meet Allah, Allah abhors to meet him. I (Shuraih b. Hani, one of the narrators) came to A’isha and said to her: Mother of the faithful, I heard Abu Huraira narrate from Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) which, if it is actually so, is a destruction to us. Thereupon she said: Those are in fact ruined who are ruined at the words of Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him). What are (the words which in your opinion would cause your destruction)? He said that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) had stated: He who loves to meet Allah, Allah too loves to meet him, and he who dislikes to meet Allah, Allah too abhors to meet him, and there is none amongst us who dons not hate death. Thereupon she said: Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) has in fact stated this, but it does not mean what you construe, but it implies (the time) when one loses the lustre of the eye, and there is rattling in the throat, shudder in the body and convulsion in fingers (at the time of death). (It is about this time) that it has been said: He who loves to meet Allah, Allah would love to meet him, and he who dislikes to meet Allah, Allah would abhor to meet him

Book 35: Number 6493: This hadith has been reported on the authority of Mutarrif with the same chain of transmitters.

Book 35: Number 6494: Abu Musa reported Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) as saying: He who loves to meet Allah, Allah too loves to meet him, and he who dislikes to meet Allah, Allah abhors to meet him.

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 6: Merit of remembrance of allah and calling him, and nearness to Allah, the Exalted

Book 35: Number 6495: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him as saying that Allah thus stated: I live in the thought of My servant as he thinks of Me and with him as he calls Me.

Book 35: Number 6496: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) as saying that Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, said: When My servant draws close to Me by the span of a palm, I draw close to him by the cubit and when he draws close to Me by the cubit, I draw close to him by the space (covered) by two hands, and when he draws close to Me by the space (covered) by two hands, I go in hurry towards him.

Book 35: Number 6497: This hadith has been narrated on the authority of Mu’tamar from his father with the same chain of transmitters, with a slight variation of wording.

Book 35: Number 6498: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying that Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, thus stated: I live in the thought of My servant as he thinks about Me, and I am with him, as he remembers Me And if he remembers Me in his heart, I also remember him in My Heart, and if he remembers Me in assembly I remember him in the assembly, better than he (does that), and if he draws near Me by the span of a palm I draw near him by the cubit, and if he draws near Me by the cubit I draw near him by the space (covered by) two hands. And it he walks towards Me, I rush towards him.

Book 35: Number 6499: Abu Dharr reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying that Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, stated:” He who comes with goodness, there are in store for him ten like those and even more than those: ‘And he who comes with vice, ‘ it is only for that that he is called to account. I even forgive him (as I like) and he who draws close to Me by the span of a palm I draw close to him by the cubit, and he who draws close to Me by the cubit I draw close to him by the space (covered) by two hands, and he who walks towards Me I rush towards him, and he who meets Me in the state that his sins fill the earth, but not associating anything with Me, I would meet Him with the same (vastness) of pardon (on My behalf).” This hadith has been transmitted on the authority of Waki’.

Book 35: Number 6500: A hadith like this has been transmitted on the authority of A’mash with the same chain of transmitters and he (further) said: There is for him ten like that (the good he performed) or more than that.

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 8: Merits of the assemblies in which Allah is remembered

Book 35: Number 6505: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) as saying Allah has mobile (squads) of angels, who have no other work (to attend to but) to follow the assemblies of Dhikr and when they find such assemblies in which there is Dhikr (of Allah) they sit in them and some of them surround the others with their wings till the space between them and the sky of the world is fully covered, and when they disperse (after the assembly of Dhikr is adjourned) they go upward to the heaven and Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, asks them although He is best informed about them: Where have you come from? They say: We come from Thine servants upon the earth who had been glorifying Thee (reciting Subhan Allah), uttering Thine Greatness (saying Allah o-Akbar) and uttering Thine Oneness (La ilaha ill Allah) and praising Thee (uttering al-Hamdu Lillah) and begging of Thee. Be would say: What do they beg of Me? They would say: They beg of Thee the Paradise of Thine. He (God) would say: Have they seen My Paradise? They said: No, our Lord. He would say: (What it would be then) if they were to see Mine Paradise? They (the angels) said: They seek Thine protection. He (the Lord) would say: Against what do they seek protection of Mine? They (the angels) would say: Our Lord, from the Hell Fire. He (the Lord) would say: Have they seen My Fire? They would say: No. He (the Lord) would say: What it would be if they were to see My Fire? They would say: They beg of Thee forgiveness. He would say: I grant pardon to them, and confer upon them what they ask for and grant them protection against which they seek protection. They (the angels) would again say: Our Lord, there is one amongst them such and such simple servant who happened to pass by (that assembly) and sat there along with them (who had been participating in that assembly). He (the Lord) would say: I also grant him pardon, for they are a people the seat fellows of whom are in no way unfortunate.

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 10: The merit of pronouncing Tahlil, Tasbih and supplication

Book 35: Number 6508: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: He who uttered these words:” There is no god but Allah, the One, having no partner with Him. Sovereignty belongs to Him and all the praise is due to Him, and He is Potent over everything” one hundred times every day there is a reward of emancipating ten slaves for him, and there are recorded hundred virtues to his credit, and hundred vices are blotted out from his scroll, and that is a safeguard for him against the Satan on that day till evening and no one brings anything more excellent than this, except one who has done more than this (who utters these words more than one hundred times and does more good acts) and he who utters:” Hallowed be Allah, and all praise is due to Him,” one hundred times a day, his sins are obliterated even if they are equal to the extent of the foam of the ocean.

Book 35: Number 6509: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: He who recites in the morning and in the evening (these words):” Hallowed be Allah and all praise is due to Him” one hundred times, he would not bring on the Day of Resurrection anything excellent than this except one who utters these words or utters more than these words.

Book 35: Number 6510: ‘Amr b. Maimun reported: He who uttered:” There is no god but Allah, the One, having no partner with Him, His is the Sovereignty and all praise is due to Him and He is Potent over everything” ten times, he is like one who emancipated four slaves from the progeny of Isma’il. Rabi’ b. Khuthaim narrated a hadith like this. Sha’bi reported: I said to Rabi’: From whom did you hear it? He said: From ‘Amr b. Maimun. I came to ‘Amr b. Maimun and said to him: From whom did you hear this hadith? He said: from Ibn Abi Laila. I came to Ibn Abi Laila and said to him: From whom did you hear this hadith? He said: From Abu Ayyub Ansari, who narrated from Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him).

Book 35: Number 6511: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: Two are the expressions which are light on the tongue, but heavy in scale, dear to the Compassionate One:” Hallowed be Allah and praise is due to Him” ;” Hallowed be Allah, the Great.”

Book 35: Number 6512: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: The uttering of (these words):” Hallowed be Allah; all praise is due to Allah, there is no god but Allah and Allah is the Greatest,” is dearer to me than anything over which the sun rises.

Book 35: Number 6513: Mu’sab b. Sa’d reported on the authority of his father that a desert Arab came to Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) and said to him: Teach me the words which I should (often) utter. He said: Utter,” There is no god but Allah, the One, having no partner with Him. Allah is the Greatest of the great and all praise is due to Him. Hallowed be Allah, the Lord of the worlds, there is no Might and Power but that of Allah, the All Powerful and the Wise.” He (that desert Arab) said: These all (glorify) my Lord. But what about me? Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: You should say:” O Allah, grant me pardon, have mercy upon me, direct me to righteousness and provide me sustenance.” Musa (one of the narrators) said: I think he also said:” Grant me safety.” But I cannot say for certain whether he said this or not. Ibn Abi Shaiba has not made a mention of the words of Musa in his narration.

Book 35: Number 6514: Abu Malik Ashaja’i reported on the authority of his father that whenever a person embraced Islam, Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) instructed him to recite:” O Allah, grant me pardon, have mercy upon me, direct me to the path of righteousness and provide me sustenance.”

Book 35: Number 6515: Abu Malik reported on the authority of his father that when a person embraced Islam, Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) used to teach him how to observe prayer and then commanded him to supplicate in these words:” O Allah, grant me pardon, have mercy upon me, direct me to the path of righteousness, grant me protection and provide me sustenance.”

Book 35: Number 6516: Abu Malik reported on the authority Of his father that he heard Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying to the person who bad come to him and asked him as to how he should beg his Lord, that he should utter these words:” O Allah, grant me pardon, have mercy upon me, protect me, provide me sustenance,” and he collected his fingers together except his thumb and said: It is in these words (that there is supplication) which sums up for you (the good) of this world and that of the Hereafter.

Book 35: Number 6517: Mus’ab b. Sa’d reported that his father told him that he had been in the company of Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) that he said: Is one amongst you powerless to get one thousand virtues every day. Amongst those who had been sitting there, one asked: How one amongst us can get one thousand virtues every day? He said: Recite:” Hallowed be Allah” one hundred times for (by reciting them) one thousand virtues are recorded (to your credit) and one thousand vices are blotted out.

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 11: The merit of an assembly for the recitation of the Qur’an or for tiie Dhikr (remembrance of Allah)

Book 35: Number 6518: Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: He who alleviates the suffering of a brother out of the sufferings of the world, Allah would alleviate his suffering from the sufferings of the Day of Resurrection, and he who finds relief for one who is hard pressed, Allah would make things easy for him in the Hereafter, and he who conceals (the faults) of a Muslim, Allah would conceal his faults in the world and in the Hereafter. Allah is at the back of a servant so long as the servant is at the back of his brother, and he who treads the path in search of knowledge, Allah would make that path easy, leading to Paradise for him and those persons who assemble in the house among the houses of Allah (mosques) and recite the Book of Allah and they learn and teach the Qur’an (among themselves) there would descend upon them the tranquillity and mercy would cover them and the angels would surround them and Allah makes a mention of them in the presence of those near Him, and he who is slow paced in doing good deeds, his (high) descent does not make him go ahead.

Book 35: Number 6519: This hadith has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira through another chain of transmitters but with a slight variation of wording.

Book 35: Number 6520: Agharr Abi Muslim reported: I bear witness to the fact that both Abu Huraira and Abu Sa’id Khudri were present when Allah’s Messenger may peace be upon him) said: The people do not sit but they are surrounded by angels and covered by Mercy, and there descends upon them tranquillity as they remember Allah, and Allah makes a mention of them to those who are near Him. This hadith has been narrated on the authority of Shu’ba with the same chain of transmitters.

Book 35: Number 6521: Abu Sa’id Khudri reported that Mu’awiya went to a circle in the mosque and said: What makes you sit here? They said: We are sitting here in order to remember Allah. He said: I adjure you by Allah (to tell me whether you are sitting here for this very purpose)? They said: By Allah, we are sitting here for this very purpose. Thereupon, he said: I have not demanded you to take an oath, because of any allegation against you and none of my rank in the eye of Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) is the narrator of so few ahadith as I am. The fact is that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) went out to the circle of his Companions and said: What makes you sit? They said: We are sitting here in order to remember Allah and to praise Him for He guided us to the path of Islam and He conferred favours upon us. Thereupon he adjured by Allah and asked if that only was the purpose of their sitting there. They said: By Allah, we are not sitting here but for this very purpose, whereupon he (the Messenger) said: I am not asking you to take an oath because of any allegation against you but for the fact that Gabriel came to me and he informed me that Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, was talking to the angels about your magnificence.

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 13: Excellence of remembering Allah in a low voice

Book 35: Number 6526: Abu Musa reported: We were along with Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) on a journey when the people began to pronounce Allah-o-Akbar in a loud voice. Thereupon Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: O people, sh mercy to yourselves for you are not calling One Who is deaf or absent. Verily, you are calling One Who is All Hearing (and) Near to you and is with you. Abu Musa told that he had been behind him (the Holy Prophet) and reciting:” There is neither might nor power but that of Allah.” He (the Holy Prophet), while addressing ‘Abdullah b. Qais, said: Should I not direct you to a treasure from amongst the treasurers of Paradise? I (‘Abdullah b. Qais) said: Allah’s Messenger, do it, of course. Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: Then recite:” There is no might and no power but that of Allah.”

Book 35: Number 6527: This hadith has been narrated on the authority of ‘Asim with the same chain of transmitters.

Book 35: Number 6528: Abu Musa reported that he (and his other companions) were climbing upon the hillock along with Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) and when any person climbed up, he pronounced (loudly):” There is no god but Allah, Allah is the Greatest.” Thereupon Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) said: Verily, you are not supplicating One Who is deaf or absent. He said: Abu Musa or Abdullah b Qais, should I not direct you to the words (which form) the treasure of Paradise? I said: Allah’s Messenger, what are these? He said:” There is no might and no power but that of Allah.”

Book 35: Number 6529: This hadith has been transmitted on the authority of Abu Musa with a slight variation of wording.

Book 35: Number 6530: Abu Musa reported: We were along with Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) on a journey; the rest of the hadith is the same as transmitted by A’sim.

Book 35: Number 6531: Abu Musa, reported. We were along with Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) in an expedition. The rest of the hadith is the same (and there is an addition of these words in that):” He (the Holy Prophet) said: He Whom you are supplicating is nearer to every one of you than the neck of his camel.” And there is no mention of these words:” There is no might and no power but that of Allah.”

Book 35: Number 6532: Abu Musa Ash’ari reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) said to him: Should I not direct you to the words from the treasures of Paradise, or he said: Like a treasure from the treasures of Paradise? I said: Of course, do that. Thereupon he said:” There is no might and no power but that of Allah.”

Book 35: Number 6533: Abu Bakr reported that he said to Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him): Teach me a supplication which I should recite in my prayer. Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: Recite:” O Allah, I have done great wrong to myself.” According to Qutaiba (the words were:) much (wrong) there is none to forgive the sins but Thou only, say:” Grant me pardon from Thyself, have mercy upon me for Thou art much Forgiving and Compassionate.” This hadith has been transmitted on the authority of ‘Amr b. al-‘As that Abu Bakr Siddiq said to Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him): Allah’s Messenger teach me a supplication which I should make in my prayer and in my house. The rest of the hadith is the same except with this variation that he said: Much wrong (Zulman Kathira).

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 18: The reciting of Subhan Allah in the morning and at the time of sleeping

Book 35: Number 6575:Juwairiya reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) came out from (her apartment) in the morning as she was busy in observing her dawn prayer in her place of worship. He came back in the forenoon and she was still sitting there. He (the Holy Prophet) said to her: You have been in the same seat since I left you. She said: Yes. Thereupon Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) said: I recited four words three times after I left you and if these are to be weighed against what you have recited since morning these would outweigh them and (these words) are:” Hallowed be Allah and praise is due to Him according to the number of His creation and according to the pleasure of His Self and according to the weight of His Throne and according to the ink (used in recording) words (for His Praise).”

Book 35: Number 6576: Juwairiya reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) happened to pass by her as she was observing her dawn prayer; or after she had observed her dawn prayer. The rest of the hadith is the same but with this variation that he said:” Hallowed be Allah according to the number of His creation, hallowed be Allah according to the pleasure of His Self, hallowed be Allah according to the weight of His Throne, hallowed be Allah according to the ink used in recording His words.”

Book 35: Number 6577: It is reported on the authority of Ali that Fatima had corns in her hand because of working at the hand mill. There had fallen to the lot of Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) some prisoners of war. She (Fatima) came to the Holy Prophet (may peace be upon him) but she did not find him (in the house). She met A’isha and informed her (about her hardship). When Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) came, she ( A’isha) informed him about the visit of Fatima. Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) came to them (Fitima and her family). They had gone to their beds. ‘Ali further (reported): We tried to stand up (as a mark of respect) but Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: Keep to your beds, and he sat amongst us and I felt coldness of his feet upon my chest. He then said: May I not direct you to something better than what you have asked for? When you go to your bed, you should recite Takbir (Allah-o-Akbar) thirty four times and Tasbih (Subhdn Allah) thirty three times and Tahmid (al-Hamdu li-Allah) thirty three times, and that is better than the servant for you.

Book 35: Number 6578: This hadith has been narrated on the authority of Shu’ba with the same chain of transmitters but with a slight variation of wording.

Book 35: Number 6579: This hadith has been transmitted on the authority of Ibn Abi Laili but with this addition:” Ali said: Ever since I heard this (supplication) from Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him), I never abandoned it. It was said to him, Not even in the night of Siffin (battle of Siffin)? He sad: Yes, not even in the night of Siffin,”

Book 35: Number 6580: Abu Huraira reported that Fatima came to Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) and asked for a servant and told him of the hardship of household work. He said: You would not be able to get a servant from us. May I not direct you to what is better than the servant for you? Recite Subhaana Allah thirty three times, al-Hamdu li-Allah thirty three times and Allah-o-Akbar thirty four times as you go to bed. This hadith has been narrated on the authority of Suhail with the same chain of transmitters.

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 21: The merit of Subhan Allah wa bi Hamdihi

Book 35: Number 6586: Abu Dharr reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) was asked as to which words were the best. He said: Those for which Allah made a choice for His Angels and His servants (and the words are):” Hallowed be Allah and praise is due to Him.”

Book 35: Number 6587: Abu Dharr reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: Should I not inform you about the words liked most by Allah? I said: Allah’s Messenger, do inform me about the words liked most by Allah. He said: Verily, the words liked most by Allah are:” hallowed be Allah and praise is due to Him.”

Sahih Muslim > 35:Pertaining to Dhikr
Chapter 23: Excellence of reciting al-Hamdu li-Allah after eating and drinking

Book 35: Number 6592: Anas b. Malik reported that Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: Allah is pleased with His servant who says: Al-Hamdu lillah While taking a morsel of food tnd while drinking.

FROM RIYADH AL SALIHEEN

BOOK OF MISSELENAS

Chapter 9: Pondering over the Great Creation of Allah, The passing away of Life of the World, the Horrors of the Day of Requital and Laxity of One’s Nafs

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“I exhort you to one (thing) only: that you stand up for Allah’s sake in pairs and singly, – and reflect (within yourselves the life history of the Prophet (PBUH))”. (34:46)

“Verily! in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. Those who remember Allah (always, and in prayers) standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and think deeply about the creation of the heavens and the earth, (saying): ‘Our Rubb! You have not created (all) this without purpose, glory to You! (Exalted be You above all that they associate with You as partners)”. (3:190,191)

“Do they not look at the camels, how they are created? And at the heaven, how it is raised? And at the mountains, how they are rooted (and fixed firm)? And at the earth, how it is spread out? So remind them (O Muhammad (PBUH)), you are only a one who reminds”. (88:17-21)

“Have they not travelled through the earth, and seen..”. (47:10) Ayat of the Qur’an and Ahadith on the subject are many.

Riyadh Al Saliheen > Misselenas
Chapter 50 : Fear (of Allah)

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“And fear none but Me”. (2:40)
“Verily, (O Muhammad (PBUH)) the Grip (punishment) of your Rubb is severe”. (85:12)
“Such is the Seizure of your Rubb when He seizes the (population of) towns  while they are doing wrong. Verily, His Seizure is painful, (and) severe. Indeed in that (there) is a sure lesson for those who fear the torment of the Hereafter. That is a Day whereon mankind will be gathered together, and that is a Day when all (the dwellers of the heavens and the earth) will be present. And We delay it only for a term (already) fixed. On the Day when it comes, no person shall speak except by His (Allah’s) Leave. Some among them will be wretched and (others) blessed. As for those who are wretched, they will be in the Fire, sighing in a high and low tone”. (11:102-106)
“And Allah warns you against Himself (His punishment)”. (3:30)
“That Day shall a man flee from his brother. And from his mother and his father. And from his wife and his children. Every man that Day will have enough to make him careless of others”. (80:34-37)
“O mankind! Fear your Rubb and be dutiful to Him! Verily, the earthquake of the Hour (of Resurrection) is a terrible thing. The Day you shall see it, every nursing mother will forget her nursling, and every pregnant one will drop her load, and you shall see mankind as in a drunken state, yet they will not be drunken, but severe will be the Torment of Allah”. (22:1,2)
“But for him who fears the standing before his Rubb, there will be two Gardens (i.e., in Jannah)”. (55:46)
“And some of them draw near to others, questioning. Saying: `Aforetime, we were afraid (of the punishment of Allah) in the midst of our families. So Allah has been gracious to us, and has saved us from the torment of the Fire. Verily, we used to invoke Him (Alone and none else) before. Verily, He is Al-Barr (the Most Subtle, Kind, Courteous, and Generous), the Most Merciful.”. (52:25-28)

Hadith: 396. `Abdullah bin Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH), the truthful and the receiver of the truth informed us, saying, “The creation of you (humans) is gathered in the form of semen in the womb of your mother for forty days, then it becomes a clinging thing in similar (period), then it becomes a lump of flesh like that, then Allah sends an angel who breathes the life into it; and (the angel) is commanded to record four things about it: Its provision, its term of life (in this world), its conduct; and whether it will be happy or miserable. By the One besides Whom there is no true god! Verily, one of you would perform the actions of the dwellers of Jannah until there is only one cubit between him and it (Jannah), when what is foreordained would come to pass and he would perform the actions of the inmates of Hell until he enter it. And one of you would perform the actions of the inmates of Hell, until there is only one cubit between him and Hell. Then he would perform the acts of the dwellers of Jannah until he would enter it.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith deals with the problem of fate in which Faith is essential. What it means is that Almighty Allah already knows about every person, whether he will be pious or impious, whether he will go to Jannah or Hell. He has already recorded all this. But it does not mean that man is absolutely helpless and is deprived of will and power, as is believed by some deviant sects who have gone astray. Fate is in fact a manifestation of the Knowledge of Allah and it has nothing to do with the will and intention of a person. Allah has not created man as a helpless creature, but has endowed him with the freedom of will and action, because in the absence of these two qualities, there would be no justification for his trial. He could only be put to test if he was granted not only the ability to choose between good and evil but also the freedom to act. For this purpose, Almighty Allah, has clearly indicated to man both the paths and granted him freedom to choose whichever he likes. He has also told him the ultimate end of each. The Noble Qur’an says:
“Verily, We showed him the way, whether he be grateful or ungrateful”. (76:3)
“Then whosoever wills, let him believe; and whosoever wills, let him disbelieve”. (18:29).
But by mentioning this Hadith in the Chapter relating to the fear of Allah, Imam An¬Nawawi has warned that we should be fearful of Allah, pray for His Help, and an auspicious end of our life. He has advised us to adopt whatever means are available to us. In other words, we should make Faith and piety a way of life because one can find the means and resources according to one’s capacity. Since nobody knows the result of his endeavours, one should leave it to Allah and rest assured that He Who has created him with a purpose will also create the ways and means to attain it. He who adopts piety, the ways to piety will open for him; and he who adopts evil, the ways to evil will open for him.
A Muslim should never go towards evil at any stage of his life, lest his life comes to an end suddenly and he is deprived of the reward of all the good deeds he has done during his life and consequently he is consigned to Hell rather than Jannah. May Allah save us from a bad end and such actions which lead one to Hell.

Hadith: 397.  Ibn Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Hell will be brought on that Day (the Day of Resurrection) with seventy bridles; and with every bridle will be seventy thousand angels, pulling it”. [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith deals with the hidden matters relating to the Unseen world. Muslims are ordained by Allah to believe in them. It is wrong to hold them as metaphorical. They are realities but we can not imagine them.

Hadith: 398.  Nu`man bin Bashir (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “The least tortured man on the Day of Resurrection is one underneath whose feet will be placed two live coal, and his brain will be boiling, and he would think that he is the most tortured, while he is the least tortured”, [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: According to the narration in Muslim, the straps of shoes to be worn by the inhabitants of Hell would be of fire which will make their brains boil like a cooker placed on oven. Some narrators have stated that the man alluded to will be Abu Talib, the real uncle of the Prophet (PBUH) and his most kind and sympathetic supporter. But since he had died as polythiest, he will be sent to Hell. May Allah save us from it.

Hadith: 399. Samurah bin Jundub (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Prophet of Allah (PBUH) said, “Among the people of Hell are there those who will be emersed in fire to their ankels, some to their knees, some to their waists, and some to their throats”. [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us that the inhabitants of Jannah will be classified into different categories and enjoy different kinds of luxuries according to their merits. A similar classification will also be made in the inhabitants of Hell and they will suffer torments according to their misdeeds.

Hadith: 400. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: I heard Messenger of Allah (PBUH) as saying, “Mankind will stand before Allah, the Rubb of the worlds (on the Day of Resurrection), some of them will stand submerged in perspiration up to half of their ears”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith gives us a glimpse of the horrible scene of the Resurrection when people will stand in awe before Allah.

Hadith: 401. Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) delivered a Khutbah to us the like of which I had never heard from him before. He said, “If you knew what I know, you would laugh little and weep much”. Thereupon those present covered their faces and began sobbing. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Another narration is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) heard of something about his Companions upon which he addressed them and said, “Jannah and (Hell) Fire were shown to me and I have never seen the like of this day in good and in evil. If you were to know what I know, you would laugh little and weep much”. His Companions experienced such suffering on that day that had no equal. They covered their faces and began to weep. [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary:
1. We learn from this Hadith that Jannah and Hell do exist. The Prophet (PBUH) was shown both of them.
2. Excessive laughing is improper because it indicates that one is careless and forgetful of the Hereafter, while a Muslim is required to be all the time alert and careful about it.
3. To weep out of fear of Allah, is praiseworthy because it indicates that one’s heart is full of fear and he is worried about the Hereafter.

Hadith: 402. Al-Miqdad (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “On the Day of Resurrection, the sun will come so close to people that there would be left only a distance of one Meel”. Sulaim bin `Amir said: By Allah, I do not know whether he meant by “Meel”, the mile of the distance measure or the stick used for applying antimony powder to the eye. (Messenger of Allah (PBUH) is, however, reported to have said:) “The people then will be submerged in perspiration according to their deeds, some up to their ankles, some up to their knees, some up to the waist and some will have the bridle of perspiration (reaching their mouth and nose) and, while saying this Messenger of Allah (PBUH) pointed to his mouth with his hand”. [Muslim].
Commentary: It is not clear whether the Arabic word (Meel) in this Hadith is for the mileage or is the stick used for applying antimony. A mile consists of eight furlongs. Some of the commentators of Hadith hold that it comprises four thousand Dhira`. Hafiz Ibn Hajar is of the opinion that it is equal to twelve thousand human steps. (For detail please see the book `Mir’atul Mafatih’ Chapter Salat-us-Safar). If it stands for the mileage even then it gives an idea of the heat of the sun. Although it is billions of miles away from the earth but one cannot bear its heat in summer. When the sun shall be at a distance of one mile, its heat shall be so intense that people would be immersed in sweat. May Allah save us from it.

Hadith: 403.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “The people will perspire on the Day of Resurrection and their perspiration will be seventy cubits down in the earth and it will reach up to their ears (they will be bridled with it)”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Hadith: 404.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: We were in the company of Messenger of Allah (PBUH) when we heard a bang. Thereupon Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said. “Do you know what this (sound) is?” We said, “Allah and His Messenger know better.” He (PBUH) said, “That is a stone which was thrown into Hell seventy years before and it has just reached its bottom”. [Muslim].
Commentary: One can imagine the torments and horrors of Hell from its depth.

Hadith: 405.  `Adi bin Hatim (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Everyone of you will speak to his Rubb without an interpreter between them. He will look to his right side and will see only the deeds he had previously done; he will look to his left and will see only the deeds he had previously done, and he will look in front of him and will see nothing but Fire (of Hell) before his face. So protect yourselves from Fire (of Hell), even by giving half a date-fruit (in charity)”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith has already been mentioned. Here it has been repeated in the context of the fear of Allah because it also has an inducement for fear of Allah and warning against the horrors of Hell.

Hadith: 406. Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “I see what you do not see and I hear what you do not hear; heaven has squeaked, and it has right to do so. By Him, in Whose Hand my soul is, there is not a space of four fingers in which there is not an angel who is prostrating his forehead before Allah, the Exalted. By Allah, if you knew what I know, you would laugh little, weep much, and you would not enjoy women in beds, but would go out to the open space beseeching Allah”. [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary:
1. This Hadith also highlights the importance of fear of Allah because the more awareness a Muslim has of the Majesty and Magnificence of Allah, the greater shall be the terror in his heart for His punishment and hope of His Mercy. With this state of mind, he will perform greater acts of obedience and abstain more rigidly from sins.
2. The Hadith also mentions the heaven teeming with angels who are all the time prostrating before Allah in worship. When this is the condition of the angels, who do not slack for a moment in the obedience of Allah, how important it is for man to worship Him because he is all the time violating commands of Allah. It is, therefore, incumbent on man to obey Allah and always seek His Help and Refuge.

Hadith: 407. Abu Barzah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Man’s feet will not move on the Day of Resurrection before he is asked about his life, how did he consume it, his knowledge, what did he do with it, his wealth, how did he earn it and how did he dispose of it, and about his body, how did he wear it out.” [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary:
1. This Hadith first of all highlights the importance and value of this transitory life, every breath of which is invaluable. Not a moment of it should, therefore, be wasted in the disobedience of Allah because one shall also be made to account for it.
2. Man shall also be answerable for his knowledge. Here, we find an inducement for acquiring religious knowledge because that alone is beneficial for him. He should make use of his knowledge for winning the pleasure of Allah. If he does not do that then he must think about the justification for not doing so. He must also think how he would be facing Allah on the Day of Resurrection.
3. The question in respect of wealth raised in this Hadith clearly shows that one should earn wealth by legitimate means only and spend it strictly in a lawful manner. If he takes to unfair means of income or squanders it, he will be sinful and required to account for the violation of the Divine injunctions.
4. One should protect his body from everything that is unlawful and force himself to submit to the Divine injunctions. When he is asked to account for neglecting them, it will be difficult for him to escape the consequences of accountability.
In short, this Hadith makes one conscious of the accountability so that one keeps it all the time in view so that he will be saved from humiliation on the Day of Resurrection. How nice would it really be if one bears the accountability of the Day of Resurrection always in mind!

Hadith: 408. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) recited, “That Day it (the earth) will reveal its news (about all that happened over it of good or evil).” (99:4). Then he (PBUH) inquired, “Do you know what its news are?” He was told: “Allah and His Messenger know better”. He said, “Its news is that it shall bear witness against every slave man and woman they did on its back. It will say: `You did this and this on such and such day.’ Those will be its news.” [At-Tirmidhi]
Commentary: This Hadith makes evident the perfect Omnipotence of Allah by telling us that He will bestow power of speech on the earth and it will bear witness to the acts committed on its surface. It has stern warning for people that however they may try to hide their sins from others, they will not be able to save themselves from Allah and His system of accountability.

Hadith: 409. Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “How can I feel at ease when the Angel of the Trumpet, (Israfil) has put his lips to the Trumpet and is waiting for the order to blow it”. He (PBUH) perceived as if this had shocked his Companions, so he (PBUH) told them to seek comfort through reciting: `Hasbunallah wa ni`mal-Wakil [Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us)]”. [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary:
1. This Hadith tells us about the fear of Allah and the fright of the Hereafter entertained by the Prophet (PBUH) and his Companions. It has a lesson for us that how, in spite of being innocent and having the assurance of the forgiveness of Allah, they were always fearful of Allah and the horrors of the Day of Resurrection. As against them, we are immersed in sins, neglect and violate the Divine injunctions day and night but even then we have neither the fear of Allah nor the fright of the Day of Resurrection.
2. In the event of fear and anxiety one should seek the help of Allah and frequently recite the Verse of the Noble Qur’an “Hasbunallahu wa ni`mal Wakil” [Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).]” (3:173).

Hadith: 410. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying, “He who is afraid of the pillage of the enemy, sets out in the early part of the night; and he who sets out early, reaches his destination. Be on your guard that the commodity of Allah is precious. Verily the commodity of Allah is Jannah”.
Commentary: Imam At-Taibi has stated that the Prophet (PBUH) mentioned this example for travellers to the Hereafter, because Satan is sitting on this passage and man’s self and his false desires are his helpers. If a person is wide-awake in his travel and exercises caution in his activities, he is not only saved from the vices of Satan, but his own false desires also do not stand in his way. The Prophet (PBUH) also pointed out that the way to the Hereafter is very hard and littered with great impediments and obstructions and it is by no means easy to traverse it. Jannah is an invaluable gift and unless man gives the sacrifice of his life and wealth, he will not become eligible for entering it. “Allah has purchased the lives and properties of Muslims for Jannah”. (Tuhfatul Ahwadhi).
This Hadith encourages us to observe obedience of our Rubb and to spare no effort to desist from all acts of disobedience in order to achieve the lofty goal of entering Jannah, by Allah’s Leave.

Hadith: 411. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: I heard Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying, “The people will be assembled on the Day of Resurrection barefooted, naked and uncircumcised”. I said, “O Messenger of Allah! Will the men and the women be together on that Day; looking at one another?” Upon this Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “O Aishah, the matter will be too serious for them to look at one another”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith mentions the horrors and torments of the Day of Resurrection which makes its connection with this Chapter obvious. What this Chapter, and Ahadith mentioned in it, make clear is that a Muslim should never be unmindful of the preparations for the Hereafter nor should he ever lose sight of the fact that he has to appear before Allah on the Day of Resurrection and account for all his actions. In order to save himself from the humiliation on that Day, he should lead a life of Faith and fear of Allah. Those who do not do so and lead a life free from fear of Allah and torments of the Hereafter, will have no hesitation in disobeying Allah, which will inevitably lead them to humiliation, disgrace and heavy punishment in the Hereafter.

Riyadh Al Saliheen > Misselenas
Chapter 51 : Hope in Allah’s Mercy

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“Say: O `Ibadi (My slaves) who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins)! Despair not of the Mercy of Allah: verily, Allah forgives all sins. Truly, He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful”. (39:53)
‘(Say:) `Truly, it has been revealed to us that the torment will be for him who denies (believes not in the Oneness of Allah, and in His Messengers), and turns away (from the truth and obedience of Allah)”. (20:48)
“And My Mercy embraces all things”. (7:156)

Hadith: 412.  `Ubadah bin As-Samit (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “He who bears witness that there is no true god except Allah, alone having no partner with Him, that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger, that `Isa (Jesus) is His slave and Messenger and he (Jesus) is His Word which He communicated to Maryam (Mary) and His spirit which He sent to her, that Jannah is true and Hell is true; Allah will make him enter Jannah accepting whatever deeds he accomplished”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Another narration in Muslim is: the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Whosoever testifies that there is no true god except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, Allah (SWT) saves him from the Fire (of Hell)”.
Commentary: This Hadith confirms that all Prophets of Allah were men and thus refutes those who attribute divinity to them and exclude them from the category of men or regard them a part of Allah, as Christians believes Prophet `Isa (Jesus to be Christ) by regarding him Allah or His son, or the Jews do Prophet `Uzair by venerating him as son of Allah. The misconception has also taken hold of a sect of the Muslims. They have invented the belief that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is “Light from the Light of Allah”. Thus further considering to be of him with Divine qualities. They exclude him from the category of men. This Hadith tells us that the belief that Prophets were men constitutes part of Faith and denial of it is the denial of a part of Faith and amounts to evasion from Tauhid – Oneness of Allah.
Prophet `Isa (Jesus) has been referred in the Qur’an as “Kalimatullah” (the Word of Allah) (4:171). What these words really mean is that he was born in an unusual manner, without being fathered by anyone, only on the express fiat of Allah.
This Hadith shows that a major sin does not cast a Muslim out of the fold of Islam, as is believed by certain deviant sects who have gone astray. Such a person does remain a Muslim and his eligibility for admission into Jannah also remains intact but his admission entirely depends on the pleasure of Allah. He may forgive a sinful Muslim and send him to Jannah even in the initial stage or keep him in Hell for sometime and then send him to Jannah. Thus, when it is said that Muslims are protected against Hell, it means that they will not abide in Hell for ever. It will be a temporary phase varying with his sins. When that punishment comes to an end, or even before it, when Almighty, Allah, wills, he will be removed from Hell to Jannah.

Hadith: 413.  Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Allah, the Almighty, says: `Whosoever does a good deed, will have (reward) ten times like it and I add more; and whosoever does an evil, will have the punishment like it or I will forgive (him); and whosoever approaches Me by one span, I will approach him by one cubit; and whosoever approaches Me by one cubit, I approach him by one fathom, and whosoever comes to Me walking, I go to him running; and whosoever meets Me with an earth-load of sins without associating anything with Me, I meet him with forgiveness like that”. [Muslim]
Commentary: This Hadith mentions the infinite Compassion and Mercy of Allah to His obedient slaves and a special expression of which will be made by Him on the Day of Resurrection. On that Day, He will give at least ten times reward for each good deed. In some cases it may be far more than that, seven hundred times or more, as He would like. Such benevolence on His part warrants that a Muslim should never lose hope of His forgiveness.

Hadith: 414.  Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A bedouin came to the Prophet (PBUH) and asked him, “O Messenger of Allah, what are the two imperatives which lead to Jannah or Hell”. He (PBUH) replied, “He who dies without associating anything with Allah will enter Jannah, and he who dies associating partners with Allah will enter the Fire”. [Muslim]
Commentary: This Hadith also holds promise for a Muslim that being a Muslim and Muwahhid (believer in the Oneness of Allah) he will be at last sent to Jannah. Whether he goes straight to Jannah or after suffering the punishment of his sins in Hell, is a separate issue, but he will not remain in Hell for ever. Eternal punishment in Hell is reserved only for pagans, polytheists, and infidels.

Hadith: 415.  Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Mu`adh bin Jabal was riding on the beast with the Prophet (PBUH), when he (PBUH) said to him, “O Mu`adh!” Mu`adh replied, “Here I am responding to you, and at your pleasure, O Messenger of Allah.” He (PBUH) again called out, “O Mu`adh.” He (again) replied, “Here I am responding your call, and at your pleasure.” He (Messenger of Allah) addressed him (again), “O Mu`adh!” He replied, “Here I am responding to you, and at your pleasure, O Messenger of Allah.” Upon this he (the Prophet (PBUH)) said, “If anyone testifies sincerely that there is no true god except Allah, and Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, truly from his heart, Allah will safeguard him from Hell.” He (Mu`adh) said, “O Messenger of Allah, shall I not then inform people of it, so that they may have glad tidings.” He (PBUH) replied, “Then they will rely on it alone (and thus give up good works altogether).” Mu`adh (May Allah be pleased with him) disclosed this Hadith at the time of his death, to avoid sinning for concealing. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: Imam At-Taibi says that the honesty of heart means firmness of faith and arrangement of actions which will provide evidence of Tauhid and Risalah (Oneness of Allah and the Prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH)). Al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar states that Imam At-Taibi has made this elaboration to remove the ambiguity which arises from the wording of the Hadith because it is generally held by Ahadith that one who bears witness to Tauhid and Risalah will not go to Hell, while Ahlus-Sunnah hold that it stands proved by concrete arguments that sinful Muslims will be consigned to Hell and then brought out from it by intercession. It shows that for the determination of real meanings of this Hadith we shall have to keep in view other related arguments as well. These meanings are riveted with good deeds. In other words, one who bears witness to Tauhid and Risalah and fulfills Islamic injunctions and obligations and requirements of Faith and fear of Allah, will not be consigned to Hell. Some scholars are of the opinion that this Hadith refers to such people who truly repented and renounced Kufr and Shirk and wholeheartedly professed Tauhid and Risalah but died soon after that and thus did not get an opportunity to do good deeds. Such people will certainly go to Jannah.
This Hadith leads to the conclusion that ordinary people should not be told things the true meanings of which they find difficult to grasp and accomplish evil deeds relying on such glad tidings.

Hadith: 416. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) or may be Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: On the day of the battle of Tabuk, the Muslims were hard pressed by hunger and they asked Messenger of Allah (PBUH): “O Messenger of Allah, grant us permission to slaughter our camels to eat and use their fat”. He (PBUH) accorded permission. On this `Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) came and said: “O Messenger of Allah, if it is done, we shall suffer from lack of transportation. I suggest you pool together whatever has been left and supplicate Allah to bless it.” Allah will bestow His Blessing upon it. Messenger of Allah (PBUH) agreed and called for leather mat and had it spread out, and asked people to bring the provisions left over. They started doing it. One brought a handful of corn, another brought a handful of dates, a third brought a piece of bread; thus some provisions were collected on the mat. Messenger of Allah (PBUH) invoked blessings, and then said, “Now take it up in your vessels”. Everyone filled his vessel with food, so that there was not left a single empty vessel in the whole camp. All of them ate to their fill and there was still some left over. Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Any slave who meets Allah, testifying there is no true god except Allah, and that I am His Messenger, without entertaining any doubt about these (two fundamentals), will not be banished from entering Jannah.” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith mentions a miracle of the Prophet (PBUH) and the effect of his prayer by means of which a small quantity of food sufficed the whole army. The exact number of Muslims who took part in the battle of Tabuk is not mentioned in any reliable account. Al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar has stated, with reference to some narratives of Fath Al-Bari mentioned in connection with the biography of the Prophet (PBUH) and the wars he had fought in the way of Allah, that they numbered thirty to forty thousand men.
Although these figures are open to question but one can safely infer from these figures that their number was very large. According to Sahih Al-Bukhari: “A large number of Muslims participated with the Prophet (PBUH) in this war. Their number was so large that they could not be described in a register. It was difficult for the Prophet (PBUH) to discover who was absent except that he was informed about him by Allah.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitab Al-Maghazi, Bab Ghazwah Tabuk, Hadith Ka`b bin Malik). This extract goes to prove that although the number of Muslims who took part in this war was very large the provisions weighing a few seers only sufficed for them all.
who is superior in virtue should listen to the advice of those who are inferior to him because there is every possibility that their advice may offer something better. It does not harm either of them. Neither does it detract from the superiority of the superior nor can it be regarded an affront of a junior.

Hadith: 417. `Itban bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported, who was with Messenger of Allah (PBUH) in the battle of Badr: I used to lead my people at Bani Salim in Salat (prayer) and there was a valley between me and those people. Whenever it rained, it became difficult for me to cross it for going to their mosque. So I went to Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and said, “I have weak eyesight and the valley between me and my people flows during the rainy season and it becomes difficult for me to cross it. I wish you to come to my house and offer Salat at a place so that I could reserve that as a Musalla (place for prayer).” Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “I will do so”. So Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and Abu Bakr (May Allah be pleased with him) came to my house the (next) morning after the sun had risen high. Messenger of Allah (PBUH) asked my permission to enter and I admitted him. He did not sit before saying, “Where do you want us to offer Salat in your house?” I pointed to the place where I wanted him to offer prayers. So Messenger of Allah (PBUH) stood up for the prayer and started the prayer with Takbir and we aligned in rows behind him; and he offered two Rak`ah prayer and finished them with Taslim, and we also performed Taslim with him. I detained him for a meal called Khazirah which I had prepared for him. (Khazirah is a special type of dish prepared from barley flour and meat soup). When the neighbours got the news that Messenger of Allah (PBUH) was in my house, they started coming till a large number of men gathered in my house. One of them said, “What is wrong with Malik, for I do not see him?” One of them replied, “He is a hypocrite and does not love Allah and His Messenger”. On that Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Don’t say this. Haven’t you seen that he testified that there is no true god except Allah,’ for Allah’s sake only.” The man replied, “Allah and His Messenger know better, but by Allah, we never saw him but helping and talking with the hypocrites.” Messenger of Allah (PBUH) replied, “No doubt, whosoever testifies that there is no true god except Allah, seeking by so professing the pleasure of Allah only, Allah will safeguard him against (Hell) Fire.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith highlights the following four points:
1. One can offer Salat at home if one has a lawful reason for it.
2. In the event one is obliged to offer Salat at home it is well to reserve a place for it.
3. It is not permissible to suspect a Muslim on the basis of mere doubt.
4. In the end, every Muslim will be sent to Jannah. This point has already been elaborated.

Hadith: 418. `Umar bin Al-Khattab (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Some prisoners were brought to Messenger of Allah (PBUH) amongst whom there was a woman who was running (searching for her child). When she saw a child among the captives, she took hold of it, pressed it against her belly and gave it a suck. Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Do you think this woman would ever throw her child in fire?” We said, “By Allah, she would never throw the child in fire.” Thereupon Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah is more kind to his slave than this woman is to her child”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: Al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar states that the Musnad Ismai`li has the following additional words in the narrative: “After continuous search, she finally found her baby. She took the baby and hugged him”.
It is permissible to illustrate by example what one cannot make others understand by means of reason and senses, the way the Prophet (PBUH) did it in the present case. Since it was not possible to describe the immensity of Allah’s Mercy, he cited the example of that woman to illustrate his point.

Hadith: 419.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying, “When Allah created the creatures, He wrote in the Book, which is with Him over His Throne: `Verily, My Mercy prevailed over My Wrath” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Another narration is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “(Allah wrote) `My Mercy dominated My Wrath”.
Still another narration is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “(Allah wrote) `My Mercy surpasses My Wrath”.
Commentary: Imam Al-Khattabi states that here the word “Kitab” (translated here as `Book’) means the decision of Almighty Allah which He has already made, an instance of which is the following Verse of the Noble Qur’an:
“Allah has decreed: `Verily, it is I and My Messengers who shall be the victorious”. (58:21).
In this Ayah the Arabic word “Kataba” is used in the sense of “Qada’ (decided);” or the word “Kataba” signifies “Lauh Mahfooz” on which He has recorded everything. Almighty Allah is on the ‘Arsh’ (the Throne of Allah) and this Book is with Him. (Fath Al-Bari, Kitab At-Tauhid, Bab: Wa kana Arshuhu `alal-Ma’.)

Hadith: 420.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah has divided mercy into one hundred parts; and He retained with Him ninety-nine parts, and sent down to earth one part. Through this one part creatures deal with one another with compassion, so much so that an animal lifts its hoof over its young lest it should hurt it”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
Another narration is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah has one hundred mercies, out of which He has sent down only one for jinn, mankind, animals and insects, through which they love one another and have compassion for one another; and through it, wild animals care for their young. Allah has retained ninety-nine mercies to deal kindly with His slaves on the Day of Resurrection.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Another narration in Muslim is reported: by Salman Al-Farisi: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah has hundred mercies, out of which one mercy is used by his creation for mutual love and affection. Ninety-nine mercies are kept for the Day of Resurrection.”
Another narration is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah created one hundred units of mercy on the Day He created the heavens and the earth. Each one of them can contain all that is between the heaven and the earth. Of them, he put one on earth, through which a mother has compassion for her children and animals and birds have compassion for one another. On the Day of Resurrection, He will perfect and complete His Mercy”. (That is He will use all the hundred units of mercy for his slaves on that Day).
Commentary:
1. We learn from this Hadith that kind and compassionate treatment is liked by Allah and is in fact His Blessing and Benevolence. This is the reason He has given a part of it to His creatures, and a person who is so hard-hearted, that he is not even aware of it has a defect which is extremely displeasing to Allah. Moreover, it is a sign that such a person is deprived of Divine blessing and mercy.
2. On the Day of Resurrection, Almighty Allah will bestow upon the believers hundred mercies. This news has great hopes and joy for His slaves.

Hadith: 421. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Allah, the Exalted, and Glorious said: `A slave committed a sin and he said: O Allah, forgive my sin,’ and Allah said: `My slave committed a sin and then he realized that he has a Rubb Who forgives the sins and punishes for the sin.’ He then again committed a sin and said: `My Rubb, forgive my sin,’ and Allah (SWT) said: `My slave committed a sin and then realized that he has a Rubb Who forgives his sin and punishes for the sin.’ He again committed a sin and said: `My Rubb, forgive my sin,’ and Allah (SWT) said: `My slave has committed a sin and then realized that he has a Rubb Who forgives the sin or takes (him) to account for sin. I have granted forgiveness to my slave. Let him do whatever he likes”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
The last sentence “let him do..”. means, as long he keeps asking for forgiveness after the commission of sins, and repents, Allah will forgive him because repentance eliminates previous sins”. (Editor’s Note)
Commentary: This Hadith tells us that so long as the heart of a Muslim remains free from willful disobedience of Divine injunctions and he does not deliberately neglect his religious duties, that is to say he goes on committing sins and each time wholeheartedly begs pardon for them, Almighty, Allah will forgive him. The reason being that he is penitent for his wrongs and does not insist upon them for fear of accountability. This condition of his shows that his heart is full of awe and Majesty of Allah and he does not feel any disgrace in showing his utter humbleness before Him. Now this is a merit of the sinful which is pleasing to Allah. Thus, He says that so long as his slave continues submission and prostration He will go on forgiving him.
On the contrary, there is a person who goes on committing sins but he neither repents for them nor seeks pardon for his wrongs; nor has any fear of accountability. Obviously, he is altogether different from the kind of Muslims mentioned before, and he will be therefore treated differently by Allah. The conduct of the former is of a Muslim who, in spite of his sins, is liked by Allah while the second is of that of a rebel for whom He has kept severe punishment ready. May Allah rank us among the former category of people.

Hadith: 422.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “By the One in Whose Hand my soul is, were you not to commit sins, Allah would replace you with a people who would commit sins and then seek forgiveness from Allah; and Allah would forgive them”. [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith also tells us that Allah has a profound liking for such people who are penitent and seek pardon for their sins from Him. So much so that if such people cease to exist who neither commit sins nor seek pardon from Him, He will create people who will do so. It does not, however, mean that He likes sins or the sinful persons. What it really means is that He likes penitence and the penitents. This is the true purport of this Hadith.
It also means that it is natural for man to commit sins, and that Allah loves whenever a slave commits a sin to rush and beg for His forgiveness. (Editor’s Note).

Hadith: 423.  Abu Ayyub Khalid bin Zaid (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Were you not to commit sins, Allah would create people who would commit sins and ask for forgiveness and He would forgive them”. [Muslim].

Hadith: 424.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: We were sitting with Messenger of Allah (PBUH). Abu Bakr and `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) were also there among the audience. In the meanwhile Messenger of Allah (PBUH) got up and left us. We waited long for his return: When we were worried about his safety, and got scared, we got up. I, therefore, went out to look for Messenger of Allah and came to a garden which belonged to the Ansar. He (PBUH) said to me “Go and give glad tidings of Jannah to anyone who testifies `La ilaha illallah (There is no true god except Allah),’ being whole-heartedly certain of it” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith also tells us that ultimately a Muslim will be awarded Jannah. Whether he will go there in the first stage or after suffering the punishment in Hell, is a matter that depends entirely on the Will of Allah.

Hadith: 425.  `Abdullah bin `Amr bin Al-`as (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) recited the Words of Allah, the Exalted, and the Glorious, about Ibrahim (PBUH) who said: “O my Rubb! They have led astray many among mankind. But whosoever follows me, he verily, is of me”. (14:36) and those of `Isa (Jesus) (PBUH) who said: “If You punish them, they are Your slaves, and if You forgive them, verily, You, only You, are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise”. (5:118). Then he (PBUH) raised up his hands and said, “O Allah! My Ummah, my Ummah,” and wept; Allah, the Exalted, said: “O Jibril (Gabriel)! Go to Muhammad (PBUH) and ask him: `What makes you weep?” So Jibril came to him and asked him (the reason of his weeping) and the Messenger of Allah informed him what he had said (though Allah knew it well). Upon this Allah said: “Jibril, go to Muhammad (PBUH) and say: `Verily, We will please you with regard to your Ummah and will never displease you”. [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith makes two points clear:
Firstly, the kindness and mercy which the Prophet (PBUH) had for his Ummah, a full manifestation of which will be seen on the Day of Resurrection.
Secondly, the love that Allah has for His Prophet, Muhammad (PBUH). Both these benefits will then go to the advantage of the faithful Muslims as they will be then blessed with Mercy and forgiveness of Allah. May Allah include us among them.

Hadith: 426.  Mu`adh bin Jabal (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I was riding a pillion with the Prophet (PBUH) on a donkey. He (PBUH) said, “O Mu`adh, do you know what is the right of Allah upon His slaves, and what is the Right of His slaves upon Allah?” I said: “Allah and His Messenger know better”. Upon this the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah’s Right upon His slaves is that they should worship Him Alone and associate nothing with Him; and His slaves’ right upon Him is that He should not punish who does not associate a thing with Him.” He (Mu`adh) added: I said to the Messenger of Allah: “Shall I give the glad tidings to people?” He (PBUH) said, “Do not tell them this good news for they will depend on it alone”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us that ordinary people, who are generally unable to understand the meanings of things in their context, will think that mere verbal profession of Tauhid and Risalah is sufficient to attain forgiveness, and it is not necessary to do what this profession entails. With this notion, they become unmindful of the obligations. Verbal profession does give them the security that they would not abide in Hell forever for ultimately they will go to Jannah. Our people are generally under the impression that all sinful Muslims, like the perfect Muslims, will go to Jannah in the very first instance. According to proofs furnished by other injunctions of Shari`ah, this is not so. This point has been already discussed at length earlier. In any case, the point made here is that no Muslim will go to Hell means that no Muslim will abide in Hell for ever. It does not at all mean that however sinful a Muslim may be, he will not be sent to Hell or suffer its torments.

Hadith: 427.  Bara’ bin `Azib (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “When a believer is questioned in the grave, he testifies that, `there is no true god except Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.’ About him the Words of Allah, the Exalted, are: `Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the firm statement (The Testimony of Faith) in this world and the Hereafter)”. (14:27) [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith mentions both the parts of the Shahadah together, that is to say “La ilaha illallah, Muhammad-ur-Rasulullah” (There is no true god except Allah, and Muhammad (PBUH) is the Messenger of Allah). The questioning in the grave is beyond question and is a part of Muslim Belief. Every Muslim will, by the Grace of Allah, give their correct answers in respect of Tauhid and Risalah.

Hadith: 428.  Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “When an infidel accomplishes any good deed, he is rewarded for it in this world; and in the case of a Muslim, Allah stores up his good acts for him in the Hereafter and provides him with subsistence in this life due to his obedience.”
Another narration is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah does not wrong a believer a good deed because he is given blessings for it in this world and will be rewarded for it in the Hereafter. But the infidel is given in the world the reward for good deeds, he has performed for the sake of Allah and when he comes to the Hereafter, there is no good deed for which he can be rewarded”. [Muslim].
Commentary: The infidels also do in this world many works which are for public welfare, or which come under the category of good deeds. Almighty Allah gives them reward for such good deeds in this world in the form of wealth, sound health, or saving them from some trouble, because Belief is precondition for reward in the Hereafter. Since an infidel is deprived of it, he will also be deprived of their reward in the Hereafter. Thus, we learn that Belief constitutes the basis of every action and is a precondition for the acceptance of any good deed by Allah.

Hadith: 429.  Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “The five daily Salat (prayers) are like a great river running by your door in which you take a bath five times a day.” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith mentions the merits of performing the five-times prescribed Salat (prayer) punctually. A person who takes bath five times daily, cannot have any dirt on his body; similarly, one who performs Salat regularly is washed of all the minor sins. If he repents and makes penitence, his major sins are also pardoned. One who is meticulous about Salat and other obligations, generally does not commit any major sin but if at all he commits it, he does not stick to it. He is sorry for it and abandons it. His minor sins are washed away by his Salat.

Hadith: 430.  Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Any Muslim dies and forty men who do not associate anything with Allah (in worship), perform his funeral prayer, Allah makes them intercede for him”. [Muslim]
Commentary:
1. The acceptance of intercession here means that Allah grants the prayer which they (intercessors) make for the deceased and forgives him, provided he is worthy of it.
2. A large number of Muwahhidun (believers in the Oneness of Allah) in a funeral holds greater promise of the pardon of the deceased.

Hadith: 431. `Abdullah bin Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: There were, about forty of us with Messenger of Allah (PBUH) in a camp when he said, “Aren’t you pleased that you will constitute one-fourth of the inhabitants of Jannah?” We said, “Yes”. He again said, “Aren’t you pleased that you will constitute one-third of the inhabitants of Jannah?”. We said: “Yes.” Upon this he (PBUH) said, “By Him in Whose Hand Muhammad’s soul is, I hope that you will constitute one-half of the inhabitants of Jannah; and the reason is that only Muslims will be admitted into Jannah; and you are no more compared to the polytheists than as a white hair on the skin of a black ox, or a black hair on the skin of a white ox.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith reveals the following two points:
1. As compared with the believers and the faithful, there will be a large number of infidels in Hell.
2. As compared with the followers of other Prophets, there will be a larger number of Muslims in Jannah, to the extent that half of its occupants will be Muslims. This Hadith has glad tidings for the Muslim Ummah and bestows great respect and honour on them. (May Allah include us among them.)

Hadith: 432. Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “On the Day of Resurrection, Allah will deliver to every Muslim, a Jew or a Christian and say: `This is your ransom from Hell-fire.”’
Another narration is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “There would come people amongst the Muslims on the Day of Resurrection with sins as heavy as a mountain, and Allah would forgive them”. [Muslim].
Commentary: “This is your ranson” is interpreted by the Hadith of Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him):”There is a place for everyone in both Jannah and Hell. When the believer occupies his place in Jannah, an infidel will take his place in Hell on account of his infidelity. This also means: “You believers were exposed to Fire, but this infidel is your ransom. Because Allah has prepared a number of His creature for Hell, so when the infidels occupy it on account of their sins and infidelity, they are considered as ransoms for the believers. Allah knows best.” (Editor’s Note)
Commentary: This Hadith tells us about the auspicious end of the believers and a bad one of disbelievers.

Hadith: 433. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: I heard Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying, “A believer will be brought close to his Rubb on the Day of Resurrection and enveloping him in His Mercy, He (SWT) will make him confess his sins by saying: `Do you remember (doing) this sin and this sin?’ He will reply: `My Rubb, I remember.’ Then He (SWT) will say: `I covered it up for you in the life of world, and I forgive it for you today.’ Then the record of his good deeds will be handed to him”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us about the believers who will be treated with special favour by Allah. (May Allah include us among them.) It also shows that the admittance of the sins leads to having them forgiven by Allah. The Hadith also encourages us to cover the sins of the believers as best we can.

Hadith: 434. `Abdullah bin Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A man kissed a woman and he came to the Prophet (PBUH) and made a mention of that to him. It was (on this occasion) that this Ayah was revealed:
“And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-As-Salat), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e., the five compulsory Salat (prayers)]. Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e., small sins)”. (11:114)
That person said, “O Messenger of Allah (PBUH), does it concern me only?”. He (Messenger of Allah (PBUH)) said, “It concerns the whole of my Ummah”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith brings out the following three points:
1. Minor sins are forgiven by virtue of Salat.
2. One must not expose one’s sins.

Hadith: 435. Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A man came to the Prophet (PBUH) and said, “O Messenger of Allah, I have committed a sin liable of ordained punishment. So execute punishment on me”. Messenger of Allah (PBUH) did not ask him about it, and then came the (time for) Salat (prayers). So he performed Salat with Messenger of Allah (PBUH). When Messenger of Allah (PBUH) finished Salat, the man stood up and said: “O Messenger of Allah! I have committed a sin. So execute the Ordinance of Allah upon me”. He (PBUH) asked, “Have you performed Salat with us?” “Yes”, he replied. Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Verily, Allah has forgiven you”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
whose story was also mentioned in the previous Hadith. The sin he had committed was not a major one that is why by Salat it was wiped out.

Hadith: 436.  Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah is pleased with His slave who eats a meal and praises Him for it; and takes a drink and praises Him for it”. [Muslim].
Commentary: One should always say “Al-hamdu lillah” (all the praise and thanks be to Allah) after food and drink. This Hadith has been mentioned in the present Chapter for the reason that it holds fear as well as hope. If one remembers Allah in the meals, he can hope for the Pleasure of Allah. One should also bear in mind that it is He who gives everything. If He likes, He can forefeit all those things or in spite of providing all the riches, deprive one of hunger and thirst, as it does happen in certain diseases. May Allah protect us from such deprivations.

Hadith: 437.  Abu Musa (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Allah, the Exalted, stretches His Hand during the night so that those who commit sins by day may repent, and He stretches His Hand in the day so that those who commit sins by night may repent. He keeps doing so until the sun rises from the West”. [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith has been mentioned before. Allah’s stretching of His Hands is one of His Attributes, and as Muslims we have to believe in this without reasoning, as is the case with His other Attributes. This has been the stand of our pious predecessors (As-Salaf-us-Salih). The process of acceptance of penitence by Allah will continue until the Day of Resurrection when the sun will rise from the West and repenting or accepting Islam will not avail. Therefore, one should not make any delay in penitence.
We must add here that, we must not name or qualify Allah except with what He or His Messenger (PBUH) has named or qualified Him; without changing them or ignoring them completely or twisting the meanings or giving resemblance to any created things:
“The Most Gracious (Allah) rose over the (Mighty) Throne”. (20:5) above the seventh heaven; and He only descends to the first (nearest) heaven during the day of `Arafah (Hajj, i.e., the 9th Dhul-Hijjah) and also during the last third part of every night, as mentioned by the Prophet (PBUH), but He is with us by His Knowledge only, not in His essence (Bi Dhatihi): “There is nothing like Him, and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer”. (42:11)

Hadith: 438.  Abu Najih `Amr bin `Abasah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: In the Pre-Islamic Period of Ignorance, I used to think that people who used to worship idols, were deviated and did not adhere to the true religion. Then I heard of a man in Makkah who was preaching a message. So I mounted my camel and went to him. I found that (this man who was) Messenger of Allah (PBUH) remained hidden because of the persecution by his people. I had entered Makkah stealthily and when I met him I asked him, “Who are you?” He (PBUH) said, “I am a Prophet.” I asked; “What is a Prophet?” He said, “Allah has sent me (with a message)”. I asked, “With what has He sent you?” He said, “He sent me to strengthen the ties of kinship, to destroy idols so that Allah alone should be worshipped and nothing should be associated with Him”. I asked, “Who has followed you in this?” He said, “A freeman and a slave”. (At that time only Abu Bakr and Bilal (May Allah be pleased with her) were with him). I said, “I shall follow you”. He said, “You can not do that now. Do you not see my situation and that of the people? Go to your people, and when you hear that my cause has prevailed, come to me”. So I went back to my people, and while I was with my people, Messenger of Allah (PBUH) emigrated to Al-Madinah. I continued to ask people about him till some of my people visited Al-Madinah. On their return, I asked them, “How is that man who has arrived in Al-Madinah faring?” They said, “People are hastening to him. His own people had planned to kill him but did not succeed.” Then I went to Al-Madinah and came to him and said, “O Messenger of Allah, do you recognize me?” He (PBUH) said, “Yes, you are the one who met me in Makkah.” I said, “O Messenger of Allah, tell me of that which Allah has taught you and of which I am unaware. Tell me about Salat first.” He (PBUH) replied, “Perform the Fajr (morning) Salat, then stop Salat until the sun has risen up to the height of a lance, for when it rises, it rises up between the horns of the devil, and the infidels prostrate themselves before it at that time. Then perform Salat, for Salat is witnessed and angels attend it, until the shadow becomes equal to the length of its object; then stop Salat, for at that time Jahannam (Hell) is heated up. Then pray when the shadow becomes longer, for the prayer is witnessed and angels attend it, until you perform `Asr prayer; then stop Salat till sun sets, for it sets between the horns of a devil. At that time the infidels prostrate themselves before it.” I then asked the Messenger of Allah to tell me about Wudu’, and he (PBUH) said, “When a person begins the Wudu’ and washes his mouth and nose, the sins committed by his face, mouth and nostrils are washed out. Then when he washes his face as commanded by Allah, the sins of his face are washed out with the water from the sides of his beard. Then when he washes his hands up to elbows, the sins of his hands are washed out through his fingers with water. Then he passes his wet hands over his head and the sins of the head are washed out through the ends of his hair with water. Then he washes his feet up to the ankles, the sins of his feet are washed out through his toes with water. Then, if he stands up for Salat and praises Allah, glorifies Him, proclaims His Greatness as He deserves and devotes his heart wholly to Allah, he emerges sin free as the day he was born”.
When `Amr bin `Abasah (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated this Hadith to Abu Umamah (May Allah be pleased with him) a Companion of the Prophet (PBUH), the latter said to him, “Watch what you are saying. O `Amr bin `Abasah, a man will be getting all of this in one shot?” `Amr (May Allah be pleased with him) replied, “O Abu Umamah, I have attained old age, my bones have become dry, my death is approaching and there is no need for me to tell lies concerning Allah and His Messenger (PBUH). Had I not heard this from the Messenger of Allah only once, twice, thrice (and he counted up to seven) I would never have reported it. Indeed I have heard this frequently”.
Commentary: This Hadith makes the following seven points:
1. The preacher should be concerned about the safety of his followers. It is for this reason, the Prophet (PBUH) stressed upon `Amr bin Abasah (May Allah be pleased with him) to stay at home and keep his conversion to Islam secret.
2. No matter how unfavourable are the circumstances and how tough is the opposition, a preacher should always have firm hope of help from Allah and be confident about his victory over his enemy. That is why, the Prophet (May Allah be pleased with him) asked `Amr (May Allah be pleased with him) to come to him when he received information about his domination.
3. It is a proof of his Prophethood that what eventually happened was exactly according to his prophecy.
4. Angels attend the Salat. One should, therefore, perform Salat not only with peace of mind but also with utmost humility and fear of Allah, so that it is reported and becomes more meritorious.
5. The times when Salat is unpraiseworthy are as follows:
a. After the Salat of Fajr to the time of sunrise.
b. At the time when the sun begins to decline.
c. After the Salat of `Asr to the time of sunset.
d. When the sun is rising or setting.
6. Wudu’ and Salat expiate for sins. For this reason this Hadith has been mentioned in this Chapter.
7. Even in the Days of Ignorance (pre-Islamic period), pious and right-minded people were averse to idolatry and thought it a deviation from the Right Path.

Hadith: 439. Abu Mu sa Al-Ash`ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “When Allah intends to show mercy to a people, He collects their Prophet before them and makes him a herald to happiness for them in the Hereafter; and when He intends to destroy a people, He punishes them while their Prophet is alive, and destroys them while he is alive and watches them and makes him witness their destruction because they disbelieved in him and disobeyed his commands”. [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us about a Divine law in respect of Prophets, which is meant to deter people from opposing the Prophet (PBUH) and commands us to follow his footsteps, so that we can benefit from his intercession on the Day of Resurrection.

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Chapter 52 : Excellence of Good Hopes

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“(And the man who believed said:) `… and my affair I leave it to Allah. Verily, Allah is the All-Seer of (His) slaves.’ So Allah saved him from the evils that they plotted (against him)”. (40:44,45)

Hadith: 440.  Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah says: `I am just as My slave thinks of Me when he remembers Me.’ By Allah! Allah is more pleased with the repentance of His slave than one of you who unexpectedly finds in the desert his lost camel. `He who comes closer to Me one span, I come closer to him a cubit; and he who comes closer to Me a cubit, I come closer to him a fathom; and if he comes to Me walking, I come to him running”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith highlights the merits of expecting good treatment of Allah. But this has to be backed by good actions, in the same way as one can hope for good results after ploughing and sowing seeds. It is obvious that one who accomplishes good deeds will expect good consequences, and one who does evil deeds will expect evil consequences. Allah will treat people according to their expectation that are founded on their actions, and the reward will match their deeds.

Hadith: 441.  Jabir bin `Abdullah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard the Prophet (PBUH) saying three days before his death: “Let none of you die unless he has good expectations from Allah”. [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith also tells us that one should always perform good deeds because no one knows the time of his death. At the time of death one must entertain hope for Allah’s Pardon and Mercy which cannot be possible without good actions. Thus, this Hadith conveys the same meanings of the following Ayah: “And die not except in a state of Islam (as Muslims)”. (3:102).

Hadith: 442.  Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah, the Exalted, has said: `O son of adam, I forgive you as long as you pray to Me and hope for My forgiveness, whatever sins you have committed. O son of ‘Adam, I do not care if your sins reach the height of the heaven, then you ask for my forgiveness, I would forgive you. O son of ‘Adam, if you come to Me with an earth load of sins, and meet Me associating nothing to Me, I would match it with an earthload of forgiveness.”’ [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: carelessness, become so numerous that in stacks touch the heights of skies, he should not lose hope in Allah’s Mercy. If he repents wholeheartedly for his sins, makes penitence for them and begs Allah’s forgiveness, he will certainly find Allah’s Mercy open for him.
2. Shirk (polytheism) is an absolutely unpardonable sin. All other sins, how many and how grave they may be, can be forgiven by Allah. He will pardon them if He likes and send the sinful persons straight to Jannah, or keep them for a while in Hell and then shift them to Jannah. In any case, the punishment of Hell will not be eternal for them, as it is for the Mushriks (polytheist).

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Chapter 53 : Combining Hope and Fear (of Allah)

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“None feels secure from the Plan of Allah except the people who are the losers.” (7:99)
“Certainly no one despairs of Allah’s Mercy, except the people who disbelieve.” (12:87)
“On the Day (i.e., the Day of Resurrection) when some faces will become white and some faces will become black…” (3:106)
“Verily, your Rubb is Quick in Retribution (for the disobedient, wicked) and certainly He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful (for the obedient and those who beg Allah’s forgiveness).” (7:167)
“Verily, the Abrar (pious and righteous) will be in Delight (Jannah). And verily, the Fujjar (the wicked, disbelievers, sinners and evildoers) will be in the blazing Fire (Hell).” (82:13,14)
“Then as for him whose balance (of good deeds) will be heavy, he will live a pleasant life (in Jannah). But as for him whose balance (of good deeds) will be light, he will have his home in Hawiyah (pit, i.e., Hell)”. (101:6-9)

Hadith: 443. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “If a believer had full knowledge of the chastisement of Allah, none would covet His Jannah; and were an infidel to know the Mercy Allah has, none would despair of His Jannah”. [Muslim].
Commentary: Divine wrath. These are described to enable a sinner to save himself from them. It also tells about the infinite Mercy of Allah so that one will always be hopeful of.
2. Only such people will receive Allah’s Grace and Mercy who are obedient to Him, while the disobedient will suffer the consequences of His Wrath.

Hadith: 444.  Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “When a dead body is placed on a bier and men carry it on their shoulders, if the deceased was pious, it (the corpse) will say: `Take me in haste’; but if he was not, it will say (to its bearers): `Woe to it. Where are you taking it?’ Everything except man hears its voice. Had a human being heard its voice, he would have surely died”. [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: The speech of a dead is a matter of the realm of the Unseen (or Al¬Ghaib) which is mentioned in this Hadith. A deceased person will certainly say what has been disclosed here. A Muslim must have absolute faith in it. Almighty Allah is certainly capable of endowing the power of speech on a deceased person as he does speak with the angels (Munkar and Nakir) when they come to the dead in the grave and question him. This Hadith is intended to induce people to virtues so that after death, one has not to say: “Woe to me! Where are you taking me?”. One should spend the life in such a manner that after death when he is taken to the graveyard for burial, he should be in a position to say: “Hasten to take me to my grave so that I can enjoy Divine blessings there”.

Hadith: 445.  Ibn Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Jannah is nearer to you than your shoelace, and so is the (Hell) Fire”. [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: Jannah is close to him who adopts the path of righteousness and he can easily attain it. Its opposite case is also equally true. He is close to Hell who takes the path of evil. Thus, this Hadith has an inducement for virtue and warning against evil.

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Chapter 54 : Excellence of Weeping out of Fear from Allah (swt)

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“And they fall down on their faces weeping and it increases their humility.” (17:109)

Hadith: 446. Ibn Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said to me: “Recite the Qur’an to me”. I said, “O Messenger of Allah! Shall I recite the Qur’an to you, when it has been revealed to you?” He (PBUH) replied, “I love to hear it recited by others”. So I recited to him a portion from Surat An-Nisa’. When I reached the Ayah: “How (will it be) then, when We bring from each nation a witness and We bring you (O Muhammad (PBUH)) as a witness against these people?”. (4:41) . He (PBUH) said, “Enough for now”. When I looked at him I saw his eyes were shedding tears. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us that besides the recitation of the Noble Qur’an, a Muslim should also listen to it from others so that he can contemplate further on it. It also makes one weep when one listens to the Noble Qur’an.

Hadith: 447. Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) delivered a Khutbah to us the like of which I had never heard from him before. In the course of the Khutbah, he said: “If you knew what I know, you would laugh little and weep much”. Thereupon those present covered their faces and began to sob. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith has been mentioned in this Chapter for the reason that it furnishes positive proof of the fact that the Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) used to weep out of fear of Allah when they heard sermons and preachings. It induces us to follow them.

Hadith: 448. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “One who weeps out of fear of Allah, will not enter the Hell till milk returns back in the udder; and the dust raised on account of fighting in the path of Allah and the smoke of Hell will never exist together”. [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary:
1. A person who has such a fear of Allah that he weeps on account of it, cannot be disobedient to Allah. Obviously, his life will generally be spent in obedience of Allah and strict abstinence from sins. It is very true to say that it is as impossible for such a person to go to Hell as the return of milk to the udders.
2. Similarly, Jihad is a highly meritorious act for a Muslim. A Mujahid, who fights for the sake of Allah, is perfectly safe from Hell because the dust that falls on this way on him, cannot mix with the smoke of Hell.

Hadith: 449. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah  (PBUH) said, “Seven people Allah will give them His Shade on the Day when there would be no shade but the Shade of His Throne (i.e., on the Day of Resurrection): And they are: a just ruler; a youth who grew up with the worship of Allah; a person whose heart is attached to the mosques, two men who love and meet each other and depart from each other for the sake of Allah; a man whom an extremely beautiful woman seduces (for illicit relation), but he (rejects this offer and) says: `I fear Allah’; a man who gives in charity and conceals it (to such an extent) that the left hand does not know what the right has given; and a man who remembers Allah in solitude and his eyes become tearful”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith has been included in this Chapter for the reason that it highlights the merits of weeping for fear of Allah. The fear of Allah keeps one away from disobedience of Allah, the reward of which in the Hereafter is Jannah – a world which abounds in the Bounties and Pleasure of Allah.

Hadith: 450. `Abdullah bin Ash-Shikhkhir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I came to Messenger of Allah (PBUH) when he was performing prayers. He was sobbing and his chest sounded like a boiling kettle. [Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us how the Prophet (PBUH) used to weep in prayer out of fear of Allah. To weep in the course of supplication and at the thought of one’s appearance before Allah reflects piety.

Hadith: 451. Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said to Ubayy bin Ka`b (May Allah be pleased with him), “Allah (SWT) has ordered me to recite to you Surat-Al-Baiyyinah (98): `Those who disbelieve …” Ubayy (May Allah be pleased with him) asked, “Did He name me?” Messenger of Allah (PBUH) replied in the affirmative. Whereupon Ubayy (May Allah be pleased with him) began to weep. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith highlights the following:
1. The permissibility of crying out of joy when a certain bounty has been bestowed upon one, and out of fear that one fails to show gratefulness to the Bestower of the bounty (i.e., Allah).
2. The superiority of Ubayy bin Ka`b (May Allah be pleased with him) and the high position he occupies with regard to his recitation and memorization of the Qur’an.

Hadith: 452. Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: After the death of Messenger of Allah (PBUH), Abu Bakr said to `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them): “Let us visit Umm Aiman (May Allah be pleased with him) as Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to visit her.” As we came to her, she wept. They (Abu Bakr and `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) said to her, “What makes you weep? Do you not know that what Allah has in store for His Messenger (PBUH) is better than (this worldly life)?” She said, “I weep not because I am ignorant of the fact that what is in store for Messenger of Allah (PBUH) (in the Hereafter) is better than this world, but I weep because the Revelation has ceased to come.” This reply moved both of them to tears and they began to weep along with her. [Muslim].
Commentary: Here, this Hadith has been reproduced to furnish justification for weeping on the departure of virtuous people because their presence is a source of many blessings. With their departure from this world, people are deprived of many graces. Pious people are certainly very much grieved on their death.

Hadith: 453. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: When the illness of Messenger of Allah (PBUH) became serious, he was asked about the leading of Salat and he said, “Ask Abu Bakr to lead Salat.” Whereupon, `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) said; “Abu Bakr is very tender hearted. He is bound to be overcome by weeping when he recites the Qur’an.” Messenger of Allah (PBUH) repeated, “Ask him (Abu Bakr) to lead Salat”.
In another narration: `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) said: “When Abu Bakr stands in your place, he will not be able to recite the Noble Qur’an to the people on account of weeping.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary:
1. This Hadith brings into prominence the distinction of Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (May Allah be pleased with him). It was because of this distinction that the Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) selected him as Khalifah (caliph) after the death of the Prophet (PBUH). On this occasion, `Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) said, “Should we not like him for our (worldly life) political leadership when the Prophet (PBUH) had chosen him for our Deen”.
2. The justification for weeping at the time of the recitation of the Noble Qur’an. This was a special virtue of Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (May Allah be pleased with him) which was a mark of his perfect Faith.

Hadith: 454. Ibrahim bin `Abdur-Rahman bin `Auf reported: Food was brought to `Abdur¬Rahman bin `Auf (May Allah be pleased with him) when he was observing Saum (fast) and he said: “Mus`ab bin `Umair (May Allah be pleased with him) was martyred and he was better than me, but only one sheet was available to shroud him. It was so small that when his head was covered; his feet remained uncovered and if his feet were covered, his head remained uncovered. Then the bounties of this world have been bestowed upon us generously. I am afraid that the reward of our good deeds have been awarded to us in this world.” On this he began to sob and left the food untouched. [Al-Bukhari].
Abdur-Rahman bin `Auf (May Allah be pleased with him) was one of the figures of `Al-Ashratul-Mubash-sharun bil Jannah (the ten Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) who were given the glad tidings of entering Jannah during their lifetime). For this reason, he is superior to Mus`ab bin `Umair (May Allah be pleased with him), but he acknowledged him superior on the consideration of his martyrdom and poverty through which he had passed. He holds Mus`ab bin `Umair (May Allah be pleased with him) better on the grounds that he had confronted the infidels in extremely difficult circumstances and sacrificed his life for the sake of Allah.
The second point which this Hadith brings out is the fear which Abdur-Rahman bin `Auf (May Allah be pleased with him) felt at the abundance of wealth and property, although he used to spend his wealth and riches in the way of Allah and Jihad. Today, the only purpose of our wealth is that we waste it either on foolish customs and ceremonies of marriage or construction of buildings and their decoration. It was this abundance of wealth of which the Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) were afraid. The Prophet (PBUH) had himself expressed great anxiety over it.

Hadith: 455. Abu Umamah Sudaiy bin `Ajlan Al-Bahili (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Nothing is dearer to Allah than two drops and two marks: A drop of tears shed out of fear of Allah and a drop of blood shed in Allah’s way. Regarding the two marks, they are: Marks left in the Cause of Allah and a mark left in observing one of the obligatory act of worship of Allah, the Exalted”. [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: This Hadith mentions the merits of the following:
1. Weeping out of fear of Allah.
2. The blood which flows in the way of Allah.
3. The marks of injuries which are left on the bodies of those who take part in Jihad.
4. The marks of wounds received in the performance of obligations.
The Ahadith on the subject are many.

Hadith: 456. Al-`Irbad bin Sariyah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: One day Messenger of Allah (PBUH) delivered us a very eloquent Khutbah on account of which eyes shed tears and hearts became softened. [Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: Even in the relevant Chapter, the author has only given a reference of this Hadith and not its full text. This has, however, been stated in Chapter 16, bearing the title “Observing the Sunnah and the manners of its obedience”.

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Book Thirteen: The Book of Praise and Gratitude to Allah

Chapter 242: The Obligation of Gratitude

Allah the Exalted says:
“Therefore, remember Me (by praying, glorifying). I will remember you, and be grateful to Me (for My countless Favours on you) and never be ungrateful to Me.” (2:152)

“If you give thanks (by accepting Faith and worshipping none but Allah), I will give you more (of My Blessings).” (14:7)

“And say: `All the praises and thanks be to Allah.”’ (17:111)

“And the close of their request will be: `Al-hamdu lillahi Rabbil-`alamin [All the praise is due to Allah, the Rubb of `Alamin (mankind, jinn and all that exists)].”’ (10:10)

Hadith: 1393. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: On the Night of Al¬Isra (the Night of Ascension) the Prophet (PBUH) was presented with two drinking vessels: one full of wine and the other one full of milk. He looked at them. Then he took the vessel which was full of milk. Thereupon Jibril (Gabriel) said: “Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah) Who has guided you to that, which is in accord with Fitrah (i.e., Islamic Monotheism; pure nature of Islam). Had you selected wine, your people would have gone astray.” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith highlights the following points:
1. Islam is a religion which matches with the pure nature. Every sensible person accepts it instinctively.
2. One who is endowed with the capacity and aptitude to do good should praise Allah.
3. Wine is the root of all evils and for this reason has been regarded the “Mother of Vices”.
4. To take good omen from agreeable signs is Mustahabb (desirable).

Hadith: 1394. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Any matter of importance which is not begun with Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah) remains defective.” [Abu Dawud].
Commentary: There is another Hadith to the effect that every important work which is not started with the invocation “Bismillah” is devoid of Allah’s Grace. Sheikh Al-Albani’s opinion about these two Ahadith is that their text is confused and its authority is weak. He has, however, regarded it as acceptable “Mursal” (Ahadith narrated by a student of a Companion deleting the Companion’s name). (For details please see Irwa-ul-Ghalil, vol. I, 1,2). In any case, it is desirable to begin every good work with the Glorious Name of Allah and His Praise.

Hadith: 1395. Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “When a slave’s child dies, Allah the Most High asks His angels, `Have you taken out the life of the child of My slave?” They reply in the affirmative. He then asks, `Have you taken the fruit of his heart?’ They reply in the affirmative. Thereupon he asks, `What has My slave said?’ They say: `He has praised You and said: Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji`un (We belong to Allah and to Him we shall be returned). Allah says: `Build a house for My slave in Jannah and name it as Bait-ul-Hamd (the House of Praise).”’ [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: This Hadith points out the eminence of patience and the merit of praising Allah in the event of a calamity, especially on the death of one’s own child. Rather than weeping and wailing, one should submit himself to the Will of Allah and show perseverance. Such attitude of patience and resignation is highly meritorious and has great reward.

Hadith: 1396. Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah is pleased with His slave who says: `Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah)’ when he takes a morsel of food and drinks a draught of water.” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith has already been mentioned. “Aklah” means to take a meal at one time, whether in the morning, the evening or at any other time. Similarly “Sharba” means to drink water at any time. What the Hadith means is that to praise Allah on eating and drinking every time is a source of Allah’s Pleasure, no matter whether the quantity one consumes is small or large.

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Book Fifteen : The Book of the Remembrance of Allah

Chapter 244 : The Excellence of the Remembrance of Allah

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“And the remembering (praising) of (you by) Allah (in front of the angels) is greater indeed [than your remembering (praising) of Allah in prayers]” (29:45)
“Therefore remember Me (by praying, glorifying). I will remember you.” (2:152)
“And remember your Rubb by your tongue and within yourself, humbly and with fear and without loudness in words, in the mornings and in the afternoons, and be not of those who are neglectful.” (7:205)

“And remember Allah much, that you may be successful.” (62:10)
“Verily, the Muslims (those who submit to Allah in Islam) men and women… (up to)… And the men and the women who remember Allah much with their hearts and tongues. Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e., Jannah).” (33:35)
“O you who believe! Remember Allah with much remembrance. And glorify His Praises morning and afternoon [the early morning (Fajr) and `Asr prayers].” (33:41,42)

Hadith: 1408. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “There are two statements that are light for the tongue to remember, heavy in the Scales and are dear to the Merciful: `Subhan-Allahi wa bihamdihi, Subhan-Allahil-Azim [Glory be to Allah and His is the praise, (and) Allah, the Greatest is free from imperfection)’.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith affirms that man’s actions carry weight. On the Day of Judgement, his actions will be cast into the Balance. At that time Allah will endow these actions with weight, or according to some scholars, those records which register man’s actions will be weighed. This is quite possible for the reason that Almighty Allah is Capable of weighing things without even their physical form. This discussion apart, when actions will be cast into the Balance, the formula mentioned in the Hadith, the utterance of which is very easy, will prove weighty. Every Muslim should make it a practice to repeat them frequently.

Hadith: 1409. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “The uttering of the words: “Subhan-Allah (Allah is free from imperfection), Al-hamdu lillah (all praise is due to Allah), La ilaha illallah (there is no true god except Allah) and Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)’ is dearer to me than anything over which the sun rises.” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith hightlights the fact that the formulas which mention the Praise and Glory of Allah, His Majesty and Oneness are liked by the Prophet (PBUH) more than anything in the world, because this is one of the virtues which will survive and will be rewarded, while the world and all that it has will perish.

Hadith: 1410. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “He who utters a hundred times in a day these words: `La ilaha illallahu, wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa `ala kulli sha’in Qadir (there is no true god except Allah. He is One and He has no partner with Him; His is the sovereignty and His is the praise, and He is Omnipotent),’ he will have a reward equivalent to that for emancipating ten slaves, a hundred good deeds will be recorded to his credit, hundred of his sins will be blotted out from his scroll, and he will be safeguarded against the devil on that day till the evening; and no one will exceed him in doing more excellent good deeds except someone who has recited these words more often than him. And he who utters: `Subhan-Allahi wa bihamdihi (Allah is free from imperfection and His is the praise)’ one hundred times a day, his sins will be obliterated even if they are equal to the extent of the foam of the ocean.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: Here sins mean minor sins and those which do not relate to the rights of people. This point has already been elaborated in the preceding Ahadith.

Hadith: 1411. Abu Ayyub Al-Ansari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said: “He who utters ten times: `La ilaha illallahu, wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahulmulku wa lahulhamdu, wa Huwa `ala kulli sha’in Qadir (there is no true god except Allah. He is One and He has no partner with Him. His is the sovereignty and His is the praise, and He is Omnipotent),’ he will have a reward equal to that for freeing four slaves from the progeny of Prophet Isma`il.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: “Slaves from the progeny of Isma`il” is a simile for very precious slaves. That is, it has the same reward to which the emancipation of four very precious slaves is eligible.

Hadith: 1412. Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said to me, “Shall I tell you the expression that is most loved by Allah?” It is `Subhan-Allahi wa bihamdihi’ (Allah is free from imperfection and His is the praise)’.” [Muslim].

Hadith: 1413. Abu Malik Al-Ash`ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Wudu’ is half of Salat, and the expression: `Subhan-Allah (Allah is free from imperfection)’ fills the Balance, and the expression: `Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah)’ fills the space between the heavens and the earth.” [Muslim].
Commentary: “Tuhur” is purification or Wudu’, while “Tahur” is water or something which is used for purification. According to some scholars, `Faith” means Salat. This is also the sense in which it has been used in the Qur’an: “And Allah would never make your Faith to be lost (i.e., your prayers).” [2:143]. Thus when Salat is the Faith, the purification is a prerequisite for Salat. Salat is not valid without purification. Some scholars are of the opinion that Faith here means Faith in general, as the Shari`ah defines it: To sincerely accept and believe in all that the Prophet (PBUH) came with, i.e., sincere acceptance of Allah and His Prophet (PBUH).

“Purification is half of the Faith” means the acceptance that purification is the most important article of Faith. It is like the saying of the Prophet (PBUH) that “Hajj is `Arafah”, which means that `Arafat (the place where the pilgrims stay on the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah) is the most important element of the Hajj. Thus, this Hadith stresses the importance and merits of purification and offers an inducement for it. It also mentions the eminence of the invocations mentioned in the Hadith by saying that if they are given a form, they will fill the space between the heavens and the earth. In other words, it is a description of the infinite vastness of the Mercy and Grace of Allah.

Hadith: 1414. Sa`d bin Abu Waqqas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A bedouin came to the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and said to him, “Teach me a few words to recite frequently.” He (PBUH) said, “Say: “La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu; Allahu Akbar kabiran, wal-hamdu lillahi kathiran, wa subhan-Allahi Rabbil-`alamin; wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billahil-`Azizil-Hakim (there is no true god except Allah the One and He has no partner with Him; Allah is the Greatest and greatness is for Him. All praise is due to Him. Allah, the Rubb of the worlds is free from imperfection; there is no might and power but that of Allah, the All-Powerful and the All-Wise.)”’ The bedouin said: “All of these for my Rubb. But what is for me?” Thereupon he (Messenger of Allah (PBUH)) said, “You should say: `Allahummaghfir li, warhamni, wahdini, warzuqni (O Allah! Grant me pardon, have mercy upon me, direct me to righteousness and provide me subsistence)’.” [Muslim].

Hadith: 1415. Thauban (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Whenever the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) concluded his prayer, he would beg forgiveness from Allah thrice and then would recite: “Allahumma Antas-Salamu, wa minkas-salamu, tabarakta ya Dhal-Jalali wal-Ikram (O Allah, You are the Grantor of security, and security comes from You. You are Blessing, O You Who have majesty and nobility)!” (Imam) Al¬Awza`i, one of the narrators of this Hadith, was asked: “How forgiveness is to be sought?” He answered: “The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to say: `Astaghfirullah! Astaghfirullah! (I beseech Allah for forgiveness, I beseech Allah for forgiveness)’.” [Muslim].

Hadith: 1416. Al-Mughirah bin Shu`bah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to say at the conclusion of prayer: “La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul-mulku, wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa `ala kulli shai’in Qadir. Allahumma la mani`a lima a’tayta, wa la mu`tiya lima mana`ta, wa la yanfa`u dhal-jaddi, minkal-jaddu (there is no true god except Allah. He is One and He has no partner with Him, His is the sovereignty and His is the praise, and He is Omnipotent. O Allah! None can deny that which You bestow and none can bestow that which You hold back; and the greatness of the great will be of no avail to them against You).” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: “Al-Jaddu” means good luck and richness. That is, good fortune and prosperity will not be of any avail before Allah. What will really benefit a person before Him are Faith and virtuous deeds. The prayer quoted in this Hadith makes a special mention of His Oneness.

Hadith: 1417. It has been reported that `Abdullah bin Zubair (May Allah be pleased with them) used to recite after Taslim at the conclusion of every Salat (prayer): “La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul-mulku, wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa `ala kulli shai’in Qadir. La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah. La ilaha illallahu, wa la na`budu illa iyyahu, Lahun-ni`matu, wa lahul-fadlu, wa lahuth-thana’ul-hasan. La ilaha ilallahu, mukhlisina, lahud-dina, wa lau karihal-kafirun (there is no true god except Allah; He is One. To Him belongs the dominion and to Him is all praise, and He is Powerful over all things. There is no power and might except with (the help of) Allah. There is no God but Allah and we worship none except Him, to Him belongs the bounty and to Him belongs the grace, and to Him belongs all excellent praise; there is no deity but Allah. We reserve our devotion exclusively for Him though the disbelievers may detest it).” Ibn Az-Zubair said: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to celebrate Allah’s Greatness in those terms after every Salat (prayer). [Muslim].
Commentary: The invocation mentioned in this Hadith is ordained by the Prophet (PBUH) and was his practice. To recite Shahadah repeatedly after Salat and to offer benediction and salutations to the Prophet (PBUH) collectively is a self-invented formula and is not consonant with the practice of the Prophet (PBUH). It is, therefore, a heresy and will have no merit. Every Muslim has to follow only the preachings and practice of the Prophet (PBUH).

Hadith: 1418. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The poor Emigrants came to the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and said: “The wealthy have gone with the highest ranks and lasting bliss.” He asked: “How is that?” They replied: “They offer Salat (prayer) as we offer it; they observe fast as we do; (and as they are wealthy) they perform Hajj and `Umrah, and go for Jihad, and they spend in charity but we cannot, and they free the slaves but we are unable to do so.” The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Shall I not teach you something with which you may overtake those who surpassed you and with which you will surpass those who will come after you? None will excel you unless he who does which you do.” They said: “Yes, please do, O Messenger of Allah” He (PBUH) said, “You should recite: Tasbih (Allah is free from imperfection), Takbir (Allah is Greatest), Tahmid (Praise be to Allah) thirty-three times after each Salat.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Abu Salih, the subnarrator of the Hadith said, when Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) was asked about the manner of reciting Tasbih, Tahmid and Takbir, he said, “Recite: “Subhan-Allah, wal-hamdulillah, wallahu Akbar’, till all are recited thirty-three times.
Commentary: This Hadith has already been mentioned, but with a slightly different wording with reference to Sahih Muslim. The elaboration made by Abu Salih apparently seems to indicate that all the three words should be recited in combination while other religious scholars have shown preference for reciting them separately. The purpose is, however, attained in either way. There does arise one question here: Should one recite each of these words thirty-three times or in all for thirty-three times? The wording of the Hadith does not make this clear. Other Ahadith, (which will follow soon) make it clear that each of these words is to be recited for thirty-three times. This is how their aggregate will come to ninety-nine. The Hadith that follows makes this point lear.

Hadith: 1419. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “He who recites after every prayer: Subhan-Allah (Allah is free from imperfection) thirty-three times; Al-hamdu lillah (praise be to Allah) thirty-three times; Allahu Akbar (Allah is Greatest) thirty-three times; and completes the hundred with: La ilaha illallahu, wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul¬hamdu, wa Huwa `ala kulli shai’in Qadir (there is no true god except Allah. He is One and He has no partner with Him. His is the sovereignty and His is the praise, and He is Omnipotent), will have all his sins pardoned even if they may be as large as the foam on the surface of the sea.” [Muslim].

Hadith: 1420. Ka`b bin `Ujrah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “There are some words, the reciters of which will never be disappointed. These are: Tasbih [saying `Subhan-Allah’ (Allah is free from imperfection)], thirty-three times, Tahmid [saying `Al-hamdu lillah’ (praise be to Allah)] thirty-three times and Takbir [saying `Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is Greatest)] thirty-four times; and these should be recited after the conclusion of every prescribed prayer.” [Muslim]
Commentary: “Muaqqibat” means the words of Praise and Glorification of Allah which are recited after Salat. This Hadith says that the words “Allahu Akbar” should be recited thirty-four times.

Hadith: 1421. Sa`d bin Abu Waqqas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to seek (Allah’s) protection after prayers in these words: “Alla-humma inni a`udhu bika minal-jubni wal-bukhl, wa a`udhu bika min an uradda ila ardhalil-`umur, wa a`udhu bika min fitnatid-dunya, wa a`udhu bika min fitnatil-qabr (O Allah, I seek refuge with You from cowardice, miserliness and from being sent back to a feeble age; and, seek refuge with You from the trials of this life and those of the grave).” [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: Some religious scholars are of the opinion that it is better to observe reciting this Du`a after concluding prayers, and that it is better to combine both. Some scholars say that the Prophet (PBUH) used to recite this Du`a just before Taslim, while he used to recite the Du`a mentioned earlier after Taslim.

Hadith: 1422. Mu`adh (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) took hold of my hand and said, “O Mu`adh! By Allah I love you, so I advise you to never forget to recite after every prayer: “Allahumma a`inni ala dhikrika, wa shukrika, wa husni `ibadatika (O Allah, help me remember You, to be grateful to You, and to worship You in an excellent manner).” [Abu Dawud].
Commentary: without His Help and Support. It also shows the superiority of Mu`adh (May Allah be pleased with him) and the Prophet’s love for him.

Hadith: 1423. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “When anyone of you has done his Tashahhud during Salat (prayer), he should seek refuge in Allah against four things and say: “Allahumma inni a`udhu bika min `adhabi jahannam, wa min `adhabil-qabr, wa min fitnatil¬mahya wal-mamat, wa min sharri fitnatil-masihid-dajjal (O Allah! I seek refuge in You from the torment of Hell, from the torment of the grave, from the trials of life and death, and from the mischief of Al-Masih Ad-Dajjal (Antichrist).” [Muslim].
Commentary: “Trials of life” means ordeals which one has to face in life and which can harm his Faith and body. “The trials of death” means the troubles which one has to face before death. “Masih” means Mumsuh-ul-`Ain, one who is squint. Ad-Dajjal (deceiver, impostor) refers to that man with a squint who will appear before the Day of Judgement. This is why he is called Al-Masih Ad-Dajjal. He will make claim of godhood and in order to test the Faith of people, Allah will get some supernatural works done from him. The pious ones would, however, recognize him and will save themselves from his trap. This will be a great trial indeed and one must seek refuge with Allah from it.

Hadith: 1424. `Ali (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: When the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) was in Salat (prayer), he used to supplicate towards the end of prayer after Tashahhud and before the concluding salutations: “Allahum-maghfir li ma qaddamtu wa ma akh-khartu, wa ma asrartu, wa ma a`lantu, wa ma asraftu, wa ma Anta a`lamu bihi minni. Antal-Muqqadimu, wa Antal-Mu’akh-khiru. La ilaha illa Anta (O Allah! Forgive my former and latter sins, which I have done secretly and those which I have done openly, and that I have wronged others, and those defaults of mine about which You have better knowledge than I have. You Alone can send whomever You will to Jannah, and You Alone can send whomever You will to Hell-fire. None has the right to be worshipped but You.” [Muslim].

Hadith: 1425. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) used to recite frequently in his bowing and prostration: “Subhanak-Allahumma, Rabbana wa bihamdika. Allahum-maghfir li (O Allah! You are free from imperfection and I begin with praising You. Forgive my sins).” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Hadith: 1426. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to recite in his bowing and prostration: “Subbuhun Quddusun, Rabbul¬mala’ikati war-ruh [You are the Most Glorious. The Most Holy. You the Rubb of the angels and of Jibril [Muslim].
Commentary: “Subbuh” and “Quddus” are two attributive Names of Allah which denote His Perfect Purity and Uniqueness. “Ar-Ruh” means Jibril (Gabriel). Although he, too, comes in the category of angels but his special mention is made here to emphasize his majesty and honour. In short, the recitation of the prayers mentioned in this Hadith is in keeping with the practice of the Prophet (PBUH).

Hadith: 1427. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “Glorify your Lord in Ruku` (bowing posture) and exert yourself in supplication in prostration. Thus your supplications are liable to be accepted.” [Muslim].

Hadith: 1428. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “A slave becomes nearest to his Rubb when he is in prostration. So increase supplications while prostrating.” [Muslim].
Commentary: Both the Ahadith mentioned above, evidently show that there is greater possibility of acceptance of an invocation which is made in prostration. Therefore, one must do it in the voulntary Salat.

Hadith: 1429. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to say in his prostration: Allahum-maghfir li dhanbi kullahu: diqqahu wa jillahu, wa `awwalahu wa akhirahu, wa alaniyatahu wa sirrahu (O Allah! Forgive all my sins, the small and the great, first and the last, the open and the secret).” [Muslim].
Commentary: Although the Prophet (PBUH) was innocent and free of sins, he used to pray for the forgiveness of his shortcomings out of his gratitude to Allah’s Might and Majesty. Thus, this Hadith has a great lesson for us. In spite of being innocent, he was always fearful of the Wrath of Allah, while we, despite being embodiments of sins, are fearless of Allah.

Hadith: 1430. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: One night I missed the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) from his bed. I searched for him. When I found him he was in bowing or prostrating posture and was reciting: Subhanaka wa bi hamdika. La ilaha illa Anta (You are free from imperfection and I begin praising You. There is no true god except You).”

Another narration is: My hand fell over his feet while he was in prostration with his feet erect. He was supplicating: “Allahumma inni a`udhu biridaka min sakhatika, wa bi-mu`afatika min `uqubatika, wa a`udhu bika minka, la uhsi thana’an `alaika, Anta kama athnaita `ala Nafsika (O Allah! I seek protection against Your Wrath in Your Pleasure. I seek protection in Your Pardon against Your chastisement, I am not capable of enumerating praise of You. You are as You have lauded Yourself).”

Hadith: 1431. Sa`d bin Abu Waqqas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: We were with the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) when he asked, “Is anyone of you unable to earn a thousand good deeds?” One of those present asked: “How can one earn thousand good deeds in a day?” He (PBUH) replied, “By saying: Subhan Allah a hundred times, then one thousand good deeds will be recorded for him or one thousand sins will be blotted out from his record.” [Muslim].
Commentary: One thousand good deeds in return for saying the word “Subhan¬Allah” is a minimum reward under the promise that says i.e., ten-fold reward would be given for each good deed. The words “Au yuhattu” is open to disagreement among the religious scholars. Some of them have mentioned it with “Au” which means one gets one thousand good deeds or a thousand sins are forgiven; while others have mentioned this Hadith with the word “Wa yuhattu”, that is, one is given a thousand virtues and a similar number of sins are pardoned.

Hadith: 1432. Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Every morning charity is due from every joint bone of the body of every one of you. Every utterance of Allah’s Glorification (i.e., Subhan-Allah) is an act of charity, and every utterance of praise of Him (i.e., Al-hamdu lillah) is an act of charity, and every utterance of profession of Faith (i.e., La ilaha illallah) is an act of charity, and every utterance of His Greatness (i.e., Allahu Akbar) is an act of charity; and enjoining good is an act of charity and forbidding what is disreputable is an act of charity; and two Rak`ah prayer which one offers in the forenoon (Ad-Duha) will suffice for all this.” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith has already been mentioned. See Hadith No. 118. It brings into prominence the distinction of the two Rak`ah of Ad-Duha as it is a means to express one’s gratitude to Allah for 360 joints in one’s body. Similarly, the Praise and Glorification of Allah, the declaration of His Oneness, enjoining good and forbidding vices are all Sadaqah of man’s body.

Hadith: 1433. Juwairiyah bint Al-Harith (May Allah be pleased with her) reported, the Mother of the Believers: The Prophet (PBUH) came out from my apartment in the morning as I was busy in performing the dawn prayer. He came back in the forenoon and found me sitting there. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Are you still in the same position as I left you.” I replied in the affirmative. Thereupon the Prophet said, “I recited four words three times after I had left you. If these are to be weighed against all you have recited since morning, these will be heavier. These are: Subhan-Allahi wa bihamdihi, `adada khalqihi, wa rida nafsihi, wa zinatah `arshihi, wa midada kalimatihi [Allah is free from imperfection and I begin with His praise, as many times as the number of His creatures, in accordance with His Good Pleasure, equal to the weight of His Throne and equal to the ink that may be used in recording the words (for His Praise)].” [Muslim].
Commentary: The recitation of the words quoted in this Hadith is highly meritorious and rewarding because they are full of Praise and Glorification of Allah.

Hadith: 1434. Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The similitude of one who remembers his Rubb and one who does not remember Him, is like that of the living and the dead.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: Lack of remembrance of Allah is akin to death. When a person dies, he is unable to do anything. Similarly, a person who does not remember Allah goes so far from Him that he cannot do anything which can benefit him.

Hadith: 1435. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah the Exalted says: `I am as my slave expects me to be, and I am with him when he remembers Me. If he remembers Me inwardly, I will remember him inwardly, and if he remembers Me in an assembly, I will remember him in a better assembly (i.e., in the assembly of angels).” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: “I am as my slave expects me to be” means that one should have the conviction that He accepts repentance, grants pardon, relieves people of their tensions and emancipates them from their troubles. Along with this conviction one should do good deeds which please Allah and avoid such deeds which have been prohibited by Him. With this conduct, one should hope for the best from Allah. This approach is similar to that of a cultivator who ploughs his land, sows the seed, waters it, takes every possible care of it and then cherishes hope for a good crop. It can also be linked to the endeavours of a person who intends to become a scholar, or a physician or an engineer. The first and foremost requirement to pursue his ambition is to study the books through which he can gain the required knowledge. For every work one intends to do, one has to first make a foundation and then acquire the means essential for it. It is only then that one can hope to achieve one’s aim.

Similar is the case of associating good hopes with Allah. Unless a person does not furnish the foundation of Faith and good deeds for it, it will be unwise to associate good hopes with Allah. A slave who rather than serving his master runs away or annoys him and still hopes that his master being so kind will not take him to task for his excesses would be called stupid by the people. The same is true of Allah, who is certainly the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful and Forgiving. But for whom is He so? The answer is for His faithful and obedient slaves and not for those who are followers of Satan. For Satan and his followers, Allah’s Decision is that: “I will fill Hell with you (Iblis) and those of them (mankind) that follow you, together.” (38:85).

Hadith: 1436. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “The Mufarridun have gone ahead.” He was asked, “Who are the Mufarridun?” He (PBUH) replied, “Those men and women who frequently celebrate the remembrance of Allah.” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith highlights the following two points: First, the eminence of plentiful remembrance of Allah. People who have this quality will be ahead of others in reward on the Day of Judgement. Second, people who remember Allah and are obedient to Him, be they men or women, will be rewarded equally. In the matter of reward no distinction will be made on the basis of their gender.

Hadith: 1437. Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying, “The best way to celebrate the remembrance of Allah is to say: La ilaha illallah (there is no true god except Allah).” [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: Since the Shahadah is the basis of Islam, its repetition in abundance has the greatest eminence. Some religious scholars regard only La ilaha illallah as eminent, while others hold that the second part of it (Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah) is also included in it. Thus, in their opinion both these parts of the Shahadah should be recited together.

Hadith: 1438. `Abdullah bin Busr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: One of the Companions said, “O Messenger of Allah. There are many injunctions of Islam for me. So tell me something to which I may hold fast.” He said, “Keep your tongue wet with the remembrance of Allah.” [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: Shara’i` is the plural of Shari`ah Shari`ah is in the sense of Mashru`ah, that is the Divine injunctions. These Divine injunctions are of various kinds, i.e., some of them are obligatory, some desirable and some voluntary. The obligatory ones are compulsory and their compliance is indispensable. What is termed as Mustahabbat (desirables) are also highly important for gaining the Pleasure of Allah. Similarly, voluntary acts are a means of getting close to Allah. Ordinary people are sometimes puzzled by the abundance of the latter and want to adhere to the first two, that is obligations and what comes in the category of desirables. A desire to this effect is mentioned in this Hadith. The Prophet (PBUH) answered the query in this matter by saying to the inquirer, “Keep your tongue wet with the remembrance of Allah.” Keeping the tongue wet with the remembrance of Allah here means its abundant recitation. In other words, one should make the remembrance of Allah a permanent feature. If one is not able to do many voulntary good works, which some people find difficult, the remembrance of Allah will make up the deficiency in that regard.

Hadith: 1439. Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “For him who says: `Subhan-Allahi wa bi hamdihi (Allah is free from imperfection, and I begin with praising Him, and to Him),’ a palm-tree will be planted in Jannah.” [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: Jannah is so vast that we cannot even imagine its vastness. The planting of trees in return for the Praise and Glorification of Allah is, therefore, neither something difficult nor surprising. So, there should not be any hesitation in accepting it as a fact. Some people take it is as a metaphor for a plentiful reward.

Hadith: 1440. Ibn Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “I met Ibrahim (PBUH) on the Night of Ascension (Al-Asra), and he said to me: `O Muhammad, convey my greetings to your Ummah, and tell them that Jannah has a vast plain of pure soil and sweet water. It is a plain levelled land. The plants grow there by uttering: Subhan-Allah, Al-hamdu lillah, La ilaha illallah and Allahu Akbar (Allah is free from imperfection; praise be to Allah; there is no true god except Allah; and Allah is Greatest).” [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: Qi`an is the plural of Qa` which means plain levelled land that does not have any tree. Trees grow on the plain land of Jannah in return for remembrance and Glorification of Allah. The more one remembers Allah, the greater is the number of trees which grow on the piece of land that will be awarded to him.

Hadith: 1441. Abud-Darda (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Shall I not inform you of the best of your actions which are the purest to your Rubb, which exalt you to the high ranks, which are more efficacious than spending gold and silver (in charity), and better for you than you should encounter your enemies whom you will smite their necks and they will smite your necks?” They said, “Certainly.” He (PBUH) said, “Remembrance of Allah the Exalted.” [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: This Hadith also tells us about the eminence of remembrance of Allah, as the basis of every good deed is remembrance of Allah and expression of one’s devotion and obedience to Him. Without these two, even the greatest virtue is useless and is of no value. Thus, we must always bear it in mind that remembrance of Allah is superior to everything else.

Hadith: 1442. Sa`d bin Abu Waqqas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and I went to see a woman. She had date-stones or pebbles in front of her, and she was counting and reciting Tasbih. [`Subhan-Allah’ (Allah is free from imperfection)]. He said, “Shall I not inform you of what is easier or better than this for you?” You should say: `Subhan-Allahi `adada ma khalaqa fis¬sama’, wa subhan-Allahi `adada ma khalaqa fil-ardi, wa subhan-Allahi `adada ma baina dhalika, wa subhan-Allahi `adada ma Huwa Khaliqun, wallahu Akbaru mithla dhalika, wal-hamdu lillahi mithla dhalika, wa la ilaha illallahu mithla dhalika, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billahi mithla dhalika (Subhan-Allah, equal to the number of what He created in the heaven; and Subhan-Allah, equal to the number of His creatures in the earth; and Subhan-Allah, equal to the number in between them; and Subhan-Allah equal to the number of those He will create).’ Then say: `Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is Greatest) in the same way. Then say: `Al-hamdu lillah’ (praise be to Allah) in the same way. Then say: `La ilaha illallah’ (there is no true god except Allah) in the same way. Then say: `La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah’ (there is no change of a condition nor power except by Allah) in the same manner.” [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: Sheikh Al-Albani has accepted this Hadith as Hasan because of the defect in its authority. He has stated that the original narration of it is without any reference to gravels and stones (of fruits) and that is “Sahih” and has been mentioned by Imam Muslim in his Sahih with reference to Jawairiyah (May Allah be pleased with her). (See Riyad-us-Saliheen, edited by Sheikh Al-Albani).

Hadith: 1443. Abu Musa (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said to me, “Shall I not guide you to a treasure from the treasures of Jannah?” I said: “Yes, O Messenger of Allah!” Thereupon he (PBUH) said, “(Recite) `La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah’ (There is no change of a condition nor power except by Allah).” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: In this Hadith the invocation “La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah” has been regarded a treasure of Jannah or one of the most precious stores of Jannah. The reason for its high eminence seems to be that through it, one makes a confession of his utter weakness and helplessness and attributes all power and authority to Allah, and this is very much liked by Allah. This statement is an outright admission that man has no power and if he can prevent himself from any mischief or do any good deed, it is only by the Will of Allah and His Permission.

Riyadh Al Saliheen > 15: Remembrance of Allah
Chapter 245 : Remembrance of Allah in all Conditions

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. Those who remember Allah (always, and in prayers) standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides..” (3:190,191)

Hadith: 1444. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to remember Allah at all times. [Muslim].
Commentary: Such religious scholars take support from this Hadith who hold that the recitation of the Qur’an is permissible in a state of Janabah (resulting from coition) and menses. Imam Al-Bukhari is also included among those who hold this view. They say that the words “at all times” clearly means that. The Prophet (PBUH) used to remember Allah (which includes the recitation of the Qur’an also) no matter whether he was in a state of minor or major pollution. For this reason, Sheikh Al¬Albani has objected Imam An-Nawawi’s mentioning these two exceptions (pollution resulting from coition and menses) in the relevant title, and has stated that there is no Hadith in support of these exceptions. In fact, the Hadith narrated by `A ishah (May Allah be pleased with her) contradicts this view. In the opinion of this school of thought, the Ahadith which prohibit the remembrance of Allah when a person is in the state of Janabah are weak in authority and are open to discussion. Thus, such Ahadith do not prove the prohibition. In the opinion of the second school of thought, which holds the opposite view, such Ahadith carry weight despite being weak in authority, because their weakness is not serious. Some of them even believe that such Ahadith come to the level of Hadith Hasan. So far logic is concerned, the viewpoint of the first school carries more weight but the reverence of the Qur’an also calls for caution. The best way to create conformity between the two views is that in inevitable situations one may go by the first view but in the ordinary circumstances it is better to follow the second view. Allah Alone knows what is right.

Hadith: 1445. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “If anyone intends to have (sexual intercourse) with his wife, he should say: “Bismillah! Allahumma janibnash-Shaitana, wa jannibish-Shaitana ma razaqtana (In the Name of Allah, O Allah! Keep us away from Satan and keep Satan away from what You have bestowed upon us);’ and if Allah has ordained a child for them, Satan will never harm him.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: One should recite the prayer mentioned in this Hadith before one cohabits with his wife. This will save him and his offspring from the evil effect of Satan. But it must be borne in mind that this prayer is to be recited before the intercourse and not during it.

Riyadh Al Saliheen > 15: Remembrance of Allah
Chapter 246 : Supplication at the time of going to Bed and Waking up

Hadith: 1446. Hudhaifah and Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Whenever the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) went to bed, he would supplicate: “Bismika-Allahumma amut wa ahya (With Your Name, O Allah, I die and return to life)”; and when he woke up, he would supplicate thus: “Al-hamdu lillahilladhi ahyana ba`da ma amatana, wa ilaihin-nushur (All praise belongs to Allah Who has restored us back to life after causing us to die; and to Him shall we return).” [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: The greatest benefit of such Du`a is that one always remembers Allah and keeps Him all the time in mind.

Riyadh Al Saliheen > 15: Remembrance of Allah
Chapter 247 : The Excellence of Gathering in which Allah is Remembered

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“And keep yourself (O Muhammad (PBUH)) patiently with those who call on their Rubb (i.e., your companions who remember their Rubb with glorification, praising in prayers, and other righteous deeds) morning and afternoon, seeking His Face; and let not your eyes overlook them.” (18:28)

Hadith: 1447. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Allah, the Exalted, has teams of angels who go about on the roads seeking those who remember Allah. When they find some people remembering Allah they call to one another and say, `Come to what you are looking for;’ and they surround them with their wings till the space between them and the lowest sky is fully covered. Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, asks them (although He is best informed about every thing): `What are my slave saying?’ They say: `They are glorifying Your Tasbih, Tahmid, Takbir, Tamjid, (i.e., they were declaring Your Perfectness, praising, remembering the Greatness and Majesty of Allah).’ He asks: `Have they seen Me?’ They reply, `No, indeed, they have not seen You.’ He asks: `How would they act if they were to see Me?’ Thereupon they reply: `If they were to see You, they would engage more earnestly in worshipping and glorifying You and would extol You more.’ He would say: `What do they beg of Me?’ They say, `They beg You for Your Jannah.’ Allah says, `Have they seen My Jannah?’ They say, `No, our Rubb.’ He says: `How would they act if they were to see My Jannah?’ They reply, `Were they to see it, they would more intensely eager for it.’ They (the angels) say, `They seek Your Protection.’ He asks, `Against what do they seek My Protection?’ They (the angels) say, `Our Rubb, from the fire of Hell.’ (He, the Rubb) says, `Have they seen the fire of Hell?’ They say, `No. By Your Honour, they have not seen it.’ He says: `How would they act if they were to see My Fire?’ They say: `If they were to see it, they would more earnest in being away from it and fearing it. They beg of Your forgiveness.’ He says: `I call you to witness that I hereby grant pardon to them and confer upon them what they ask for; and grant them protection against what they seek protection from.’ One of the angels says: `Our Rubb, there is amongst them such and such slave who does not belong to the assembly of those who are participating in Your remembrance. He passed by them and sat down with them.’ He says: `I also grant him pardon because they are the people by virtue of whom their associates will not be unfortunate’.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

(The narration in Muslim is also the same with minor changes in wordings).
Commentary: What kind of circles and gatherings of remembrance of Allah are referred to here? Obviously not those in which Allah is remembered in the ways invented by the participants themselves, i.e., repetition of the slogans “Allah-Hu”, “Haq-Allah”, etc.,which have not been mentioned in any Hadith. The repetition of any specific word, in a specific manner and in a peculiar surrounding (such as by putting the lights off) – this manner of conducting the remembrance of Allah is also not evident from the practice of the Prophet (PBUH) and his Companions. The circles and gatherings mentioned in this Hadith are those in which, the Prophet’s Sunnah is fully observed. The words such as Subhan-Allah, Al-hamdu lillah, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar etc., are recited and Praise and Glorification of Allah are done after Salat. The groups are quietly engaged in the remembrance of Allah, and those who attend the sermons and speeches delivered in mosques on Friday also come in this category of meetings and gatherings as these are ordained in Islam. This Hadith also highlights the distinction of Muslims who are engaged in the remembrance of Allah and the Du`a they recite on the suggested times and occasions.

Hadith: 1448. Abu Hurairah and Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “When a group of people assemble for the remembrance of Allah, the angels surround them (with their wings), (Allah’s) mercy envelops them, Sakinah, or tranquillity descends upon them and Allah makes a mention of them before those who are near Him.” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith also highlights the merits of remembrance of Allah and the high grades of the people indulging in it.

Hadith: 1449. Abu Waqid Al-Harith bin `Auf (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) was sitting in the mosque with his Companions when three people came to him. Two of them stepped forward to the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and the third went away. Those two men stood by the side of Messenger of Allah (PBUH). One of them found a space in the circle and he filled it, while the other one sat behind him. When the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) finished, he said, “Shall I not inform you about these three people? One of them sought refuge with Allah and Allah gave him refuge; the second one felt shy and Allah showed kindness to his shyness (and so he was accommodated in that meeting), and the last one averted, and so Allah turned away His Attention from him.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith highlights the following three points:

1.The inducement for participation in the meetings held for the remembrance of Allah.

2.The merit of avoiding anything that causes inconvenience to people and distinction of those who are bashful.

3.The condemnation and evil consequences of avoiding, without any genuine reason, the meetings or gatherings which are held to remember Allah or to disseminate religious knowledge.

Hadith: 1450. Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Mu`awiyah (May Allah be pleased with him) came to an assembly in the mosque and asked them: “What has made you sit together?” They replied, “We are sitting here to remember Allah.” He said, “I adjure you by Allah to tell me whether nothing else has made you to sit together.” They replied: “By Allah! We are sitting only to remember Allah.” Then he said, “I did not adjure you because I suspected you. No one of my rank in the eyes of the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) is the narrator of so few traditions as I am. The fact is that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) went out to a circle of his Companions and said, `What has made you sit there?’ When they replied that they are sitting together to remember Allah and to praise Him for guiding them to Islam and bestowing favours on them, he (PBUH) said, `I adjure you by Allah to tell me that nothing else has made you sit together.’ On their reply that there was certainly no other purpose, he (PBUH) said, `I did not adjure you because I suspected you, but Jibril (Gabriel) came to me and told me that Allah was talking proudly of you to the angels.”’ [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith, like those preceding it, mentions the merits of the meetings which are held for the remembrance of Allah as well as the distinction of those who participate in them.

Riyadh Al Saliheen > 15: Remembrance of Allah
Chapter 248 : Remembrance of Allah in the Morning and in the Evening

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“And remember your Rubb by your tongue and within yourself, humbly and with fear and without loudness in words in the mornings, and in the afternoons and be not of those who are neglectful.” (7:205)

“And declare the perfectness of your Rubb before the rising of the sun, and before its setting.” (20:130)

“And declare the perfectness of your Rubb and praise Him in the `Ashi (i.e., the time period after the midnoon till sunset) and in the Ibkar (i.e., the time period from early morning or sunrise till before midnoon).” (40:55)

“In houses (mosques) which Allah has ordered to be raised (to be cleaned, and to be honoured), in them His Name is mentioned in the mornings and in the afternoons or the evenings. Men whom neither trade nor sale diverts from the remembrance of Allah (with heart and tongue).” (24:36,37)

“Verily, We made the mountains to declare the Perfectness of Allah with him [Dawud (David)] in the `Ashi (i.e., after the midday till sunset) and Ishraq (i.e., after the sunrise till midday).” (38:18)

Hadith: 1451. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “He who recites in the morning and in the evening the statement: `Subhan-Allahi wa bihamdihi (Allah is free from imperfection and I begin with praising Him)’ one hundred times, will not be surpassed on the Day of Resurrection by anyone with better deeds than one who utters the same words or utters more of these words.”

Hadith: 1452. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: A man came to the Prophet (PBUH) and said, “What a trouble I suffered from a scorpion which stung me last night!” He (PBUH) said, “Had you said in the evening: `A`udhu bikalimatillahit¬tammati min sharri ma khalaqa (I seek the protection of Allah’s Perfect Words from the evil of whatever He has created),’ it would not have harmed you.” [Muslim].
Commentary: Kalimat means the Words of Allah, His Decisions and His Power. At¬Tamat being free from every defect and shortcoming. Thus, it means “I seek the protection of Allah, by means of faultless Words, Decisions and Power of Allah, from the mischief of every living being”. It is the best prayer for protection from dangerous animals, insects and people.

Hadith: 1453. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) used to say in the morning: “Allahumma bika asbahna, wa bika amsaina, wa bika nahya, wa bika namutu, wa ilaikan-nushur (O Allah! With Your Power we have come to the morning, with Your Power we come to the evening, with Your Power we live, and we die, and to You will we return).” In the evening he would say: “Allahumma bika amsaina, wa bika nahya, wa bika namutu, wa ilaikan-nushur (O Allah! With Your Power, we have come to the evening, by You do we live, by You do we die, and to You is the return).” [At-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud].

Hadith: 1454. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Abu Bakr asked, “O Messenger of Allah! Teach me some words so that I may recite them in the morning and in the evening.” The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Recite these words: `Allahumma fatiras-samawati wal-ardi, `alimal-ghaibi wash-shahadati, Rabba kulli shai’in wa malikahu. Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Anta, a`udhu bika min sharri nafsi, wa sharrish-Shaitani wa shirkihi (O Allah! Creator of the heavens and the earth! Knower of the hidden and the exposed! Rubb of everything and every one. I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped but You. I seek Your Protection from the evil of my own self from the evil of Satan and from the evil of Shirk to which he calls).”’ The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) added: “Recite these words in the morning and the evening and when you go to bed.” [Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].

Hadith: 1455. `Abdullah bin Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: When it was evening, the Prophet (PBUH) used to supplicate: “Amsaina wa amsal-mulku lillah, wal-hamdu lillah. La `ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lahu (We have entered upon evening and the whole kingdom of Allah, too, has entered upon evening. Praise is due to Allah. There is none who has the right to be worshiped but Allah, the One who has no partner with Him).” He (the narrator) said: I think that he (PBUH) used to follow the recitation with these words: “Lahul-mulku, wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa `ala kulli shi’in Qadir. Rabbi as’aluka khaira ma fi hadhihil-lailati, wa khaira ma ba`daha; wa a`udhu bika min sharri ma fi hadhihil-lailati, wa sharri ma ba`daha; Rabbi a`udhu bika minal-kasali, wa su’il-kibari; Rabbi a`udhu bika min `adhabin fin-nari, wa `adhabin fil-qabri (His is the sovereignty and to Him is all praise due, and He is Omnipotent. My Rubb, I beg of you good that lies in this night and good that follows it, and I seek refuge in You from the evil that lies in this night and from the evil of that which follows it. My Rubb! I seek refuge in You from lethargy and the misery of old age. O Allah! I seek Your Protection from the torment of Hell-fire and the punishment of the grave).” When it was morning, he (PBUH) would recite the same, replacing the words: “We have entered upon evening and the whole kingdom of Allah, too, has entered upon evening” with “We have entered upon morning and the whole kingdom of Allah entered upon morning.” (Replace the words “Amsaina, amsa, hadhihil-lailati, ma ba`daha with Asbahna, asbaha, hadhal-yaumi, ma ba`dahu, respectively.) [Muslim].
Commentary: It is desirable to recite the invocations cited in the Hadith in the morning and the evening and also when one goes to bed and awakes. The purpose is that the concept of Allah’s Providence and Divinity remains alive all the time in one’s mind. With these words one seeks Allah’s Protection in life and the Hereafter from things which are harmful. One also begs for his safety and guidance in this life and the Hereafter. This Hadith fully expresses one’s recognition of Allah’s Godhood and Lordship.

Hadith: 1456. `Abdullah bin Khubaib (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said to me, “Recite Surat Al-Ikhlas and Al¬Mu`awwidhatain (Surat Al-Falaq and Surat An-Nas) three times at dawn and dusk. It will suffice you in all respects.” [Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: “Recite Surat Al-Ikhlas and Al-Mu`awwidhatain (Surat Al-Falaq and Surat An-Nas) three times at dawn and dusk. It will suffice you in all respects” means that then one would not need any other recitation for the remembrance of Allah. Moreover, by virtue of these three Surah, Allah will protect the reciter from every dangerous thing. In other Ahadith, it is stated that after lying in the bed, the Prophet (PBUH) used to recite these Surah, then blow on his hands and rub them over his body to the extent he could.

Hadith: 1457. `Uthman bin `Affan (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “He who recites three times every morning and evening: `Bismillahil-ladhi la yadurru ma`as-mihi shai’un fil-ardi wa la fis-sama’i, wa Huwas-Sami`ul-`Alim (In the Name of Allah with Whose Name there is protection against every kind of harm in the earth or in the heaven, and He is the All-Hearing and All Knowing),’ nothing will harm him.” [Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: The prayer cited in this Hadith means that “I seek the Protection of Allah by means of which one can save himself from every vice, whether it is an animal or man, a jinn or Satan because He is Aware of everyone’s condition and Capable of hearing everybody’s petition. He who comes in His Protection none can harm him, except that which He wills.”

Riyadh Al Saliheen > 15: Remembrance of Allah
Chapter 249 : Supplication before going to Bed

Allah, the Exalted, says:
“Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. Those who remember Allah (always, and in prayers) standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and think deeply about the creation of the heavens and the earth.” (3:190,191)

Hadith: 1458. Hudhaifah and Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to supplicate when he went to bed at night: “Bismik-Allahumma ahya wa amut (With Your Name, O Allah, I expire and return to life).” [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: Every person sleeps at night and gets up in the morning. Thus, in a way, sleep is death and reawakening is gaining life again. This life and death, like the literal life and death, lie in the Hands of Allah. The prayer cited in this Hadith engraves this concept in mind and when one recalls it every night it remains alive in his mind that “this life is for Allah and I am alive with His Will. Whenever He wills, the light of my life will be extinguished. Therefore, I should spend these few days of life lent to me by Him in accordance with His Will and not in His disobedience”.

Hadith: 1459. `Ali (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said to me and to Fatimah (May Allah be pleased with her) (Ali’s wife and the Prophet’s daughter), “When you go to bed, recite: Takbir (Allahu Akbar) thirty-three times and Tasbih (Subhan-Allah) thirty-three times and Tahmid (Al-hamdu lillah) thirty-three times.”
Another narration is: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Recite Tasbih thirty-four times.”
Another narration is: The Messenger of Allah(PBUH) said, “Recite Takbir thirty-four times.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: It is apparent from the difference in the narrations of this Hadith that the aggregate of the wordings has to be one hundred. For this purpose, one of these invocations should be recited thirty-four times. It will be quite in order if one recites either of the three for thirty-four times because the Ahadith on the subject say this number for any of them. In this connection two Ahadith have been mentioned by Imam An-Nawawi and the reciting of “Al-hamdu lillah” thirty-four times occurs in An-Nasa’i. This formula of Glorification, Praise and Elevation of Allah’s Name is to be recited after every obligatory Salat and before going to bed.

Hadith: 1460. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “When any of you goes to bed, he should shake off (or dust off) his bedsheet because he does not know what might have fallen on it after he had left it. Then he should recite: `Bismika Rabbi wada`tu janbi, wa bika arfa`uhu, in amsakta nafsi farhamha, wa in arsaltaha fahfazha bima tahfazu bihi `ibadakas¬salihin [With Your Name, my Rubb, I place my side (upon the bed) and with Your Grace I will raise it up. If You withhold my soul (cause me to die), have mercy on it but if You let it go (let me live), guard it against which You guarded Your pious slaves].”’ [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith calls our attention to a very important matter that before going to bed, we must shake off our bed-sheet, mattresses, etc., because it is quite possible that some poisonous insect might have passed over it in our absence and the effects left by it may prove harmful to us. One should recite this prayer after shaking off the bed-sheet, mattresses, etc.

Hadith: 1461. `A ishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: Whenever the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) went to bed, he would blow upon his hands recite Al-Mu`awwidhat; and pass his hands over his body. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: “Al-Mu`awwidhat” the Surah which give protection) are the three Surah of the Qur’an which have been mentioned in this Hadith. They are so named because the request for granting of protection is made to Allah by means of them. The last two Surah of the Qur’an, that is Surat Al-Falaq and Surat An-Nas, are called “Al-Mu`awwidhatain” which means “Two Surah which give protection”. One must recite these Surah of the Qur’an before going to sleep so that one may, on the one hand, follow the practice of the Prophet (PBUH), and on the other one, finds the Protection of Allah.

Hadith: 1462. Al-Bara` bin `Azib (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, “Whenever you intend to go to bed, perform Wudu’ as is done for Salat (prayer); and then lie down on the right side and recite: `Allahumma aslamtu nafsi ilaika, wa fawwadtu amri ilaika, wal-ja’tu zahri ilaika, raghbatan wa rahbatan ilaika, la malja’a wa la manja minka illa ilaika, amantu bikitabik-alladhi anzalta, wa binabiyyik-alladhi arsalta [O Allah! I have submitted myself to You. I have turned my face to You, entrusted my affairs to You and relied completely on You out of desire for and fear of You (expecting Your reward and fearing Your punishment). There is no resort and no deliverer from (hardships) except You. I affirm my faith in Your Book which You have revealed, and in Your Prophet whom You have sent].’ If you die during the night, you will die in the true religion. Let these words be your last words at night.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith has already been mentioned. See Hadith No. 80. It points out the desirability of performing Wudu’ before going to bed and reciting this Du`a which show the genuine worship and complete submission to Allah.]

Hadith: 1463. Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Whenever the Prophet (PBUH) went to his bed, he would say: “Al-hamdu lillah-illadhi at`amana wa saqana, wa kafana wa awana, fakam mimman la kafiya lahu wa la mu’wiya (Praise is due to Allah Who has fed us, provided us drink, satisfied us and gave us protection. Many are those who have no one to provide for them, or give them shelter).” [Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith impresses upon us that Almighty Allah is sufficient for mankind. That is, He saves us from our enemies, gives us sustenance, and provides us facilities of residence and living. Due thanks should be addressed to Him alone.

Hadith: 1464. Hudhaifah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Whenever the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) intended to go to sleep, he would place his right hand under his (right) cheek and supplicate: “Allahumma qini `adhabaka yauma tab`athu `ibadaka (O Allah! Guard me against Your punishment on the Day when You will resurrect Your slaves).” [At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: This Hadith has a warning that one should never be unmindful of Allah’s Wrath. In fact, one should always seek Allah’s Protection and do such virtuous deeds which please Him so that one may be saved from the Divine retribution on the Day of Judgement.

FROM ADAB AL MUFRAD

Book 38: General Behaviour

Chapter 402. A man saying, “Glory be to Allah!” when he is amazed

902. Abu Hurayra said, “I heard the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, say, ‘While a shepherd was tending to his sheep, a wolf came and snatched one of the sheep. The shepherd went after the wolf which turned to him and said, ‘Who will look after them on the ‘Day of Wild Beasts’? They will have no shepherd but me.’ People said, ‘Glory be to Allah!’ The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, ‘I believe it I, Abu Bakr and ‘Umar.'”
Grade: Saheeh (Authentic)
Commentary: ‘The Day of Wild Beast’ refers to the time of trials and tribulations when people will be forced to abandon their herds without any shepherd to the wild beasts. 2. The hadeeth highlights the virtue of the two great Shaykhs, Abu Bakr and ‘Umar (radiya Allahu anhuma). In another version in Saheeh al-Bukhaaree, it said, “And they were both not present there (at the time).” 3. The point in this hadeeth in relation to the chapter heading is the companions’ statement, Subhaanallah; Glorious is Allah, because they were surprised at the narration.

903. ‘Ali said, “The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was in a funeral procession an he picked up something and began to scratch the ground with it. He said, ‘There is none of you who does not have his seat written either in the Fire or in the Garden.’ They said, ‘Messenger of Allah, then should we not rely on what is written for us and abandon action?’ ‘Act.’ he said. ‘Every thing is easy if you were created for it.’ He added, ‘As for someone who is one of the people of happiness, it is easy for him to perform the actions of happiness. As for someone who is one of the people of wretchedness, it is easy for him to perform the actions of wretchedness.’ Then he recited, ‘As for him who gives out and has taqwa and confirms the Good É’ (92:5-10)
Grade: Saheeh (Authentic)
Commentary: Allah the Mighty and Sublime has absolute knowledge of all things – generally and specifically – ever before (which negates been preceded by Ignorance) and everlastingly (which negates forgetfulness) whether it has to do with His actions or those of His creatures. All these are written down in the Laoh al-Mahfooz (the Preserved Tablet). This definitely includes where every person will endup – whether in the Fire or the Garden. This clearly refutes the wrong position of the Qadarites that Allah has no knowledge or record of events before they occur! 2. The Prophetﷺ ordered the people to “Act”; that is, carry out Allah’s commands and abstain from His prohibitions by way of giving servitude to Him showing that they have will and ability to actually obey or disobey. Thus, it refutes the position of the Jabarites who hold – albeit wrongly – that the servant does not have will or ability and that they carry out acts of obedience and disobedience under coercion! Every mentally balanced person knows the difference between the actions they perform out of their own volitions and those they perform out of coercion.

Adab Al Mufrad >
Book 49. Mornings and evenings

Adab Al Mufrad > 49: Morning and Evenings
Chapter 573. What to say in the morning

1199. Abu Hurayra said, “In the morning, the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, would say, ‘O Allah, We enter the morning by You and we enter the evening by You. We live by You and we die by You and to You is gathering.’ In the evening, he would say, ‘O Allah, we enter the evening by You and we enter the morning by You and we live by You and we die by You and to You is the return.'”
Grade: Saheeh (Authentic)

1200. Ibn ‘Umar said, “The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, did not omit saying the following words in the morning and evening: ‘O Allah, I ask you for well-being in this world and the Next. O Allah, I ask you for forgiveness and well-being in my deen and in this world and in my family and my property. O Allah, veil my faults and calm my fears. O Allah, give me protection in front of me and behind me, on my right and my left and above me. I seek refuge by Your might from being overwhelmed from under me.'”
Grade: Saheeh (Authentic)
Commentary: The Prophetﷺ sought Allah’s protection, mentioning all the directions from which afflictions reach man. The narration encourages being brief and encompassing in supplications.

1201. Maymuna, the wife of the Prophet, said, “I heard Anas ibn Malik say that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, ‘Whoever days in the morning, “O Allah, we bear witness to you and we bear witness to the bearers of You Throne and Your angels and all Your creation. You are Allah. There is no god but You alone with no partner and Muhammad is your slave and Messenger”, by that Allah will free a quarter of him from the Fire on that day. If someone says it twice, Allah will free half of him from the Fire. If he says it four times, Allah will free him completely from the Fire on that day.'”
Grade: Da’eef (Weak)

Adab Al Mufrad > 49: Morning and Evenings
Chapter 574. What to say in the evening

1202. Abu Hurayra reported that Abu Bakr said, “Messenger of Allah, teach me something that I can say morning and evening.” The Prophet said, “O Allah, Knower of the Unseen and the Visible, Creator of the heavens and the earth, everything is in Your hands. I testify that there is no god but You. I seek refuge with You from the evil of myself and the evil of shaytan and his (encouragement to) associate others (with You).” Say it in the morning and the evening and when you go to sleep.”
Grade: Saheeh (Authentic)
Commentary: Regarding the expression, “wa shirkihi”, Imam al-Khattaabee (rahimahullah) said, “It has been reported in two wordings: with a kasra below the Shin (shirkihi), meaning the invitations and insinuations of Shaytan including joining partners with Allah; that others besides Allah benefits or fulfill his needs. Secondly, with a fatha over both the sheen and raa (sharakihi) meaning, the traps and webs of Shaytan.”

1203. A similar report from Abu Hurayra in which he said, “The Lord of everything and its Master.” He said, “The evil of shaytan and his encouragement to associate.”
Grade: Saheeh (Authentic)

1204. Abu Rashid al-Hayrani said, “I came to ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar and asked him to relate to us what he had heard from the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. He handed me a paper and said, ‘This is what the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, wrote for me.’ I looked at it and it read: ‘Abu Bakr as-Siddiq asked the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, “Messenger of Allah, teach me what to say in the mornings and evenings.” He said, “Abu Bakr, say, ‘O Allah, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, the Knower of the Unseen and Visible. the Lord of all things and their Master. I seek refuge with You from the evil of shaytan and his encouragement to associate and that I bring evil on myself or bring it on another Muslim.'”‘”
Grade: Saheeh (Authentic)

FROM HISNUL MUSLIM (SUPPLICATIONS)