ISLAM - FACTS ONE MUST KNOW
ISLAM - FACTS ONE MUST KNOW -What is Islam?
Islam is not a new religion, but the same truth that Allah revealed through all His Prophets to every people. For a fifth of the world's population, Islam is both a religion and a complete way of life. Muslims follow a religion of peace, mercy, and forgiveness, and the majority have nothing to do with the extremely grave events, which have come to be associated with their faith.
Who are the Muslims?
Over one billion people from a vast range of races, nationalities and cultures across the globe - from the southern Philippines to Nigeria - are united by their common Islamic faith. About 18% live in the Arab world; the world's largest Muslim community is Indonesia; substantial parts of Asia and most parts of Africa are Muslim, while significant minorities are to be found in Russia, China, North and South America, and Europe.
What do Muslims believe?
Muslims believe in One, Unique, Incomparable God; in the Angels created by Him; in the Prophets through whom His revelations were brought to mankind; in the Day of Judgement and the individual accountability for actions; in God's complete authority over human destiny and in life after death. Muslims believe in a chain of Prophets starting with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, Elias, Jonah, John and Jesus (peace be upon them all). But God's final message to man, a reconfirmation of the eternal message and a summing-up of all that has gone before, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, (peace be on him), through Archangel Gabriel.
How does someone become a Muslim?
Simply by saying 'there is no deity apart from Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.' By this declaration the believer announces his or her faith in all messengers of Allah, and the scriptures they brought.
What does 'Islam' mean?
The Arabic word 'Islam' simply means 'submission,' and derives from a word meaning 'peace.' In a religious context it means complete submission to the will of Allah. 'Muhammadanism' is thus a misnomer, because it suggests that Muslims worship Muhammad rather than Allah. "Allah" is the Arabic name for God, which is used by Arab Muslims and Christians alike.
Why does Islam often seem strange?
Islam may seem exotic or even extreme in the modern world. Perhaps this is because religion does not dominate everyday life in the West today, whereas Muslims have religion always uppermost in their minds, and make no division between the secular and the sacred. They believe that the Divine Law, the Shari'ah, should be taken very seriously, which is why issues related to religion are still so important.
Do Islam and Christianity have different origins?
No. Together with Judaism, they go back to the Prophet and Patriarch Abraham (peace be on him), and their three Prophets are directly descended from his sons - Muhammad (peace be on him) from the eldest, Ishmael, and Moses and Jesus from Isaac. Abraham established the settlement, which today is the city of Makkah, and built the Ka'bah towards which all Muslims turn when they pray.
What is the Ka'bah?
The Ka'bah is the place of worship which Allah commanded Abraham and Ishmael to build over four thousand years ago. The building was constructed of stone on what many believe was the original site of the sanctuary established by Adam. God commanded Abraham to summon all mankind to visit this place, and when pilgrims go there today, they say 'At Thy service, O Lord,' in response to Abraham's call.
Who is Muhammad?
Muhammad (peace be on him) was born in Makkah Al-Mukarramah in the year 570, at a time when Christianity was not yet fully established in Europe. Since his father died before his birth, and his mother shortly afterwards, he was raised by his uncle from the respected tribe of Quraysh. As he grew up, he became known for his truthfulness, generosity and sincerity, so that he was sought after for his ability to arbitrate in disputes. The historians describe him as calm and meditative.
Muhammad (peace be. on him) was of a deeply religious nature, and had long detested the decadence of his society. It became his habit to meditate from time to time in the Cave of Hira near the summit of Jabal Al-Nur, the 'Mountain of Light' near Makkah.
How did he become a Prophet and a Messenger of God?
At the age of 40, while engaged in meditative retreat, Muhammad (peace be on him) received his first revelation from Allah through the Angel Gabriel. This revelation, which continued for twenty three years, is known as the Qur'an.
As soon as he began to recite the words he heard from Gabriel, and to preach the truth which Allah had revealed to him, he and his small group of followers suffered bitter persecution, which grew so fierce that in the year 622, Allah gave them the command to emigrate. This event, the Hijrah, 'migration,' in which they left Makkah for the city of Madinah some 420 kilometres to the north, marks the beginning of the Muslim calendar.
After several years, the Prophet (peace be on him) died at the age of 63, and within a century of his death, Islam had spread to Spain in the West and as far East as China.
How did the spread of Islam affect the world?
Among the reasons for the rapid and peaceful spread of Islam was the simplicity of its doctrine - Islam calls for faith in only One God worthy of worship. It also repeatedly instructs man to use his powers of intelligence and observation.
Within a few years, great civilizations and universities were flourishing, for according to the Prophet (peace be on him), 'Seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim.' The synthesis of Eastern and Western ideas and of new thought with old, brought about great advances in medicine, mathematics, physics, astronomy, geography, architecture, art, literature, and history. Many crucial systems, such as algebra, the Arabic numerals, were transmitted to medieval Europe from Islam. Sophisticated instruments, which were to make possible the European voyages of discovery, were developed, including the astrolabe, the quadrant and good navigational maps.
What is the Qur'an?
The Qur'an is a record of the exact words revealed by Allah through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him). It was memorized by Muhammad (peace be on him) and then dictated to his Companions, and written down by scribes, who crosschecked it during his lifetime. Not one word of its 114 chapters, Surahs, has been changed over the centuries, so that the Qur'an is in every detail the unique and miraculous text, which was revealed to Muhammad (peace be on him) fourteen centuries ago.
What is the Qur'aan about?
The Qur'an, the last revealed Word of God, is the prime source of every Muslim's faith and practice. It deals with all the subjects which concern us as human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship and law, but its basic theme is the relationship between God and His creatures. At the same time, it provides guidelines for a just society, proper human conduct and an equitable economic system.
Are there any other sacred sources?
Yes, the Sunnah, the practice and example of the Prophet (peace be on him), is the second authority for Muslims. A Hadith is a reliably transmitted report of what the Prophet (peace be on him) said, did, or approved. Belief in the Sunnah is part of the Islamic faith.
Examples of the Prophet's sayings:
The Prophet (peace be on him) said:
'Allah has no mercy on one who has no mercy for others.'
'None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.'
'He who eats his fill while his neighbour goes without food, is not a believer.'
'The truthful and honest businessman will be in the company of the Prophets, the truthful people, and the martyrs on the Day of Judgement.'
'Powerful is not he who knocks the other down, indeed powerful is he who controls himself in a fit of anger.'
'Allah does not judge according to your bodies and appearances, but He scans your hearts and looks into your deeds.'
'A man walking along a path felt very thirsty. Reaching a well he descended into it, drinking his fill and came up. Then he saw a dog with its tongue hanging out, trying to lick up mud and quench its thirst. The man saw that the dog was feeling the same thirst as he had felt so he went down into the well again and filled his shoe with water and gave the dog a drink. Allah forgave his sins for this action.'
The Prophet (peace be on him) was asked: 'Messenger of Allah, are we rewarded for kindness towards animals?' He said: 'There is a reward for kindness to every living thing.'
(From the Hadith collections of Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi and Bayhaqi.)
What are the 'Five Pillars' of Islam?
They are the framework of the Muslim life: faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self-purification, and the pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able.
1. FAITH
There is no god worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad (peace be on him) is His messenger. This declaration of faith is called the Shahadah, a simple formula which all the faithful pronounce.
In Arabic, the first part is 'La Ilaha Illallah - there is no god except Allah'; Ilah (God) can refer to anything which we may be tempted to put in place of God - wealth, power, and the like. Then comes Illallah: 'except God', the source of all creation.
The second part of the Shahadah is Muhammadur Rasulullah: 'Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.' A message of guidance has come through a man like ourselves.
2. PRAYER
Salat is the name for the obligatory prayers, which are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshipper and Allah. There is no hierarchical authority in Islam and no priests, so the prayers are led by a learned person, who knows the Qur'an, chosen by the congregation. These five prayers contain verses from the Qur'an, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation, but personal supplication can be offered in one's own language.
Prayers are said at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim may pray almost anywhere, such as in fields, offices, factories and universities. Visitors to the Muslim world are struck by the centrality of prayers in daily life.
3. THE ZAKAH
One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to Allah, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word Zakah means both 'purification' and 'growth.' Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need, and, like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth.
Each Muslim calculates his or her own Zakah individually. For most purposes this involves the payment each year of two and a half percent of one's capital.
A pious person may also give as much as he or she pleases as Sadaqah, and does so preferably in secret. Although this word can be translated as 'voluntary charity' it has a wider meaning. The Prophet (peace be on him) said: 'Even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is charity.'
The Prophet (peace be on him) said: 'Charity is a necessity for every Muslim.' He was asked: "What if a person has nothing?' The Prophet (peace be on him) replied: 'He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something 'out of such earnings in charity.' The Companions asked: 'What if he is not able to work?' The Prophet (peace be on him) said: 'He should help poor and needy persons.' The Companions further asked: 'What if he cannot do even that?' The Prophet (peace be on him) said: 'He should urge others to do good.' The Companions said: 'What if he lacks that also?' The Prophet (peace be on him) said: 'He should restrain himself from doing evil. That is also charity.'
4. THE FAST
Every year in the month of Ramadhan, all Muslims fast from first light of dawn until sundown, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations. Those, who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women, who are pregnant or nursing, are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year. If they are physically unable to do this, they must feed a needy person for every day missed. Children begin to fast (and to observe the prayer) from puberty, although many start earlier.
Although the fast is most beneficial to the health, it is regarded principally as a method of selfpurification. By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person gains true sympathy with those, who go hungry as well as growth in one's spiritual life.
5. PILGRIMAGE (Hajj)
The annual pilgrimage to Makkah the Hajj - is an obligation only for those, who are physically and financially able to perform it. Nevertheless, about two million Muslims go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for people of different nations to meet one another. Although Makkah is always filled with visitors, the annual Hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that Hajj and Ramadhan fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple, unstitched garments, which strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God.
The rites of the Hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include circling the Ka'bah seven times and going seven times between the hillocks of safa and Marwah as did Hagar during her search for water. Then the pilgrims stand together on the wide plain of Arafah and join in prayers for God's forgiveness, in what is often thought of as a preview of the Day of Judgement.
In previous centuries the Hajj was an arduous undertaking. Today, however, Saudi Arabia provides millions of people with all necessities like foodstuff, water, modern transport, and the most up-to-date health facilities.
The close of the Hajj is marked by a festival, the Eid Al-Adha, which is celebrated with gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This, and the Eid Al-Fitr, a feast-day commemorating the end of Ramadhan, are the main festivals of the Muslim calendar.
What do Muslims think about Jesus?
Muslims respect and revere Jesus (peace be on him), and await his Second Coming. They consider him one of the greatest of God's messengers to mankind! A Muslim never refers to him simply as 'Jesus', but always adds the phrase 'peace be on him.' The Qur'an confirms his virgin birth (a chapter of the Qur'an is entitled 'Mary'), and Mary is considered the purest woman in all creation. The Qur'an describes the Annunciation as follows:
'Behold!' the Angel said, 'Allah has chosen you, and purified you, and chosen you above the women of all nations. O Mary, Allah gives you good news of a word from Him, whose name shall be the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, honoured in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near to Allah. He shall speak to the people from his cradle and in maturity, and shall be of the righteous.
She said: 'O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me?' He said: 'Even so, God creates what He will. When He decrees a thing, He says to it, "Be!" and it is.' (Qur'an, 3:42-47)
Jesus (peace be on him) was born miraculously through the same power which had brought Adam into being without a father.
"Truly, the likeness of Jesus with Allah is as the likeness of Adam. He created him of dust, and then said to him, 'Be!' and he was." (Qur'an, 3:59)
During his prophetic mission Jesus (peace be on him) performed many miracles. The Qur'an tells us that he said:
"I have come to you with a sign from your Lord: I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it and it becomes a bird by Allah's leave. And I heal the blind, and the lepers, and I raise the dead by Allah's leave." (Qur'an, 3:49)
Neither Muhammad, nor Jesus (peace be on them) came to change the basic, doctrine of the belief in One God, brought by earlier prophets, but to confirm and renew it. In the Qur'an, Jesus (peace be on him) is reported as saying that he came:
"To attest the law which was before me, and to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden to you; I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, so fear Allah and obey Me." (Qur'an, 3:50)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) said:
'Whoever believes there is no god but Allah alone without partner, that Muhammad is His messenger, that Jesus is the servant and messenger of Allah, His word breathed into Mary and that Paradise and Hell are true, shall be received by God in Heaven.' (Hadith from Bukhari)
Why is the family so important to Muslims?
The family is the foundation of Islamic society. The peace and security offered by a stable family unit is greatly valued, and seen as essential for the spiritual growth of its members. A harmonious existence of extended families; children are treasured and rarely leave home until the time they marry.
What about Muslim women?
Islam sees a woman, whether single or married, as an individual in her own right, and with the right to own an dispose of her property and earnings. A marriage dowry is given by the groom to the bride for her own personal use, and she keeps her own family name rather taking her husband's.
Both men and women are expected to dress in a way which is modest and dignified. The Messenger of Allah (peace be on him) said: 'The most perfect in faith amongst believers is he who is best in manner and kindest to his wife.'
Can a Muslim have more that one wife?
The religion of Islam was revealed for all societies and all times and so accommodates widely differing social requirements. Circumstances may warrant the taking of another wife but the right is granted, according to the Qur'an, only on condition that the husband is scrupulously fair.
Is Islamic marriage like Christian marriage?
A Muslim marriage is not a 'sacrament,' but a simple, legal agreement in which either partner is free to include conditions. Marriage customs thus vary widely from country to country. As a result, divorce is not common, although it is not forbidden as a last resort. According to Islam, no Muslim girl can be forced to marry against her will.
How do Muslims treat the elderly?
In the Islamic world there are no old people's homes. The strain, of caring for one's parents in this most difficult time of their lives is considered an honour and blessing, and an opportunity for great spiritual growth. Allah asks that we not only pray for our parents, but act with limitless compassion, remembering that when we were helpless children they preferred us to themselves. Mothers are particularly honoured: the Prophet (peace be on him) taught that 'Paradise lies at the feet of mothers.' When they reach old age, Muslim parents are treated mercifully, with the same kindness and selflessness.
In Islam, serving one's parents is a duty second only to prayer, and it is their right to expect it. It is considered despicable to express any irritation when, through no fault of their own, the old become difficult.
The Qur'an says:
"Your Lord has commanded that you worship none but Him, and be kind to parents. If either or both of them reach old age in your life, do not say to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but speak to them in terms of honour and kindness. Lower to them the wing of humility, and say, 'My Lord! Have mercy on them as they did care for me when I was a child." (Qur'an, 17:23)
How do Muslims view death?
Muslims believe that the present life is only a preparation for the next realm of existence. Basic articles of faith include: the Day of Judgement, resurrection,
Heaven and Hell. When a Muslim dies, he or she is washed, usually by a family member, wrapped in a clean white cloth and buried with a simple prayer preferably the same day. Muslims consider this one of the final services they can do for their relatives, and an opportunity to remember their own brief existence here on earth. The Prophet (peace be on him) taught that three things can continue to help a person even after death; charity which he had given, knowledge which he had taught and prayers on their behalf by a righteous child.
What does Islam say about war?
Islam permits fighting in selfdefence, in defence of religion, or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes. It lays down strict rules of combat, which include prohibitions against harming civilians and against destroying crops, trees and livestock. As Muslims see it, injustice would be triumphant in the world, if good men were not prepared to risk their lives in a righteous cause. The Qur'an says:
"Fight in the cause of Allah against those who fight you, but do not transgress limits. Allah does not love transgressors." (Qur'an, 2:190)
"If they seek peace, then seek you peace. And trust in Allah for He is the One that hears and knows all things." (Qur'an, 8:61)
War, therefore, is the last resort, and is subject to the rigorous conditions laid down by the sacred law. The term Jihad literally means 'struggle', and Muslims believe that there are two kinds of Jihad. The other 'Jihad' is the inner struggle which everyone wages against egoistic desires, for the sake of attaining inner peace.
What about food?
Although much simpler than the dietary law followed by Jews and the early Christians, the code, which, Muslims observe, forbids the consumption of pig meat or any kind of intoxicating drink. The Prophet (peace be on him) taught that 'your body has rights over you', and the consumption of wholesome food and the leading of a healthy lifestyle are seen as religious obligations.
The Prophet (peace be on him) said: 'Ask Allah for certainty (of faith) and well-being; for after certainty, no one is given any gift better than health!'
How does Islam guarantee human right?
Freedom of conscience is laid down by the Qur'an itself: "There is no compulsion in religion." (Qur'an 2:256)
The life and property of all citizens in an Islamic state are considered sacred whether a person is Muslim or not. Racism is incomprehensible to Muslims, for the Qur'an speaks of human equality in the following terms:
"O mankind! We created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, so that you may come to know one another. Truly, the most honoured of you in Allah's sight is the greatest of you in piety. Allah is AllKnowing, All-Aware." (Qur'an 49:13)
What the Holy Qur'an says?
Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from error: whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy handhold, that never breaks. And Allah hears and knows all things. (Qur'an, 2:256)
"Invite (all) to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: For your Lord knows best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance. And if you punish, let your punishment be proportionate to the wrong that has been done to you: But if you show patience, that is indeed the best (course) for those who are patient. (Qur'an, 16:125)
Say: "O men! Now truth has reached you from your Lord! Those who receive guidance, do so for the good of their own souls: those who stray, do so to their own loss: and I am not (set) over to arrange your affairs.
Follow you the inspiration sent unto you, and be patient and constant, till Allah does decide: for He is the Best to decide." (Qur'an 10:108-109)
"Nor can goodness and evil be equal. Repel (evil) with what is better: then will he between whom and you was hatred become as it were your friend and intimate!" (Qur'an, 41:34)
"(They are) those who, if We established them in the land, establish regular prayer and give regular charity, enjoin the right and forbid wrong: with Allah rests the end (and decision) of (all) affairs." (Qur'an, 22:41)
The Muslim Journal - Vol.29 No. 4
PROPHETS OF ISLAM
Aaron [Harun]
Aaron was Moses's eloquent brother who helped him proclaim his mission to Pharaoh. When Moses went to fulfill the appointment with his Lord on Mount Sinai, Aaron succeeded him in leading the Israelites. During this period a man called Al-Samiri suggested to the Israelites that they make the golden figure of a calf to worship. Thus they went astray and committed a great sin. Aaron persistently tried to convince them to return to the worship of Allah, but they did not listen to him. Upon his return, Moses was angered and blamed Aaron heavily for letting the Israelites divert from the true faith.
هارون : أخو موسى ورفيقه في دعوة فرعون إلى الإيمان بالله لأنه كان فصيحا ومتحدثا، استخلفه موسى على قومه عندما ذهب للقاء الله فوق جبل الطور، ولكن حدثت فتنة السامري الذي حول بني إسرائيل إلى عبادة عجل من الذهب له خوار ، فدعاهم هارون إلى الرجوع لعبادة الله بدلا من العجل ولكنهم استكبروا فلما رجع موسى ووجد ما آل إليه قومه عاتب هارون عتابا شديدا.
Abraham [Ibrahim]
Abraham was the "Close One to Allah" Who preferred him over many others and selected him to be a messenger. Though brought up in a pagan community that worshiped idols, Abraham refused to do so and realized that there must be a greater god of the universe. Allah guided him to the right path and revealed His message to him. He then directed his mission to his people, and called on them to renounce idolatry. He was answered with stubborn refusals. They plotted against him but their schemes were in vain, for Allah, the Almighty, provided support and protection to His servant and prophet, Abraham. Abraham was the forefather of a line of prophets through his two sons Ishmael and Isaac. It was Abraham who began the construction of the Ka`bah with the help of Ishmael.
إبراهيم : هو خليل الله، اصطفاه الله برسالته وفضله على كثير من خلقه، كان إبراهيم يعيش في قوم يعبدون الكواكب، فلم يكن يرضيه ذلك، وأحس بفطرته أن هناك إلها أعظم حتى هداه الله واصطفاه برسالته، وأخذ إبراهيم يدعو قومه لوحدانية الله وعبادته ولكنهم كذبوه وحاولوا إحراقه فأنجاه الله من بين أيديهم، جعل الله الأنبياء من نسل إبراهيم فولد له إسماعيل وإسحاق، قام إبراهيم ببناء الكعبة مع إسماعيل.
Adam
Adam, the first man, was created by the Hand of Allah Who taught him all names, made the angels prostrate before him, and granted him the companionship of Eve with whom he was admitted to Paradise. In Paradise both Adam and Eve were warned against a certain tree, but Satan tempted them to eat from its fruit. As a result, Adam was descended to be Allah's vicegerent on earth, and, together with Eve, was provided with a means of living. As the first apostle of Allah, Adam was ordered to call his children to the worship of Allah the Only and True God.
آدم : أبو البشر، خلقه الله بيده وأسجد له الملائكة وعلمه الأسماء وخلق له زوجته وأسكنهما الجنة وأنذرهما أن لا يقربا شجرة معينة ولكن الشيطان وسوس لهما فأكلا منها فأنزلهما الله إلى الأرض ومكن لهما سبل العيش بها وطالبهما بعبادة الله وحده وحض الناس على ذلك، وجعله خليفته في الأرض، وهو رسول الله إلى أبنائه وهو أول الأنبياء.
David [Dawud]
David was a devout servant of Allah who used to observe fasting on one day and break it the next, besides practicing forms of worship for about two-thirds of the night. Allah revealed the Psalms to David, gave him wisdom and knowledge and granted him a strong kingdom in which mountains were subdued, all birds were assembled and iron was made soft.
داوود : آتاه الله العلم والحكمة وسخر له الجبال والطير يسبحن معه وألان له الحديد، كان عبدا خالصا لله شكورا يصوم يوما ويفطر يوما يقوم نصف الليل وينام ثلثه ويقوم سدسه وأنزل الله عليه الزبور وقد أوتي ملكا عظيما وأمره الله أن يحكم بالعدل.
Elijah [Ilyas]
Elijah was a prophet sent to the people of Baalbek, in east Lebanon. He called them to worship only Allah and stop adoring their idol Ba`la. They subjected him to different punishments. Ibn `Abbas said that Elijah was the paternal uncle of Elisha.
إلياس : أرسل إلى أهل بعلبك غربي دمشق فدعاهم إلى عبادة الله وأن يتركوا عبادة صنم كانوا يسمونه بعلا فآذوه، وقال ابن عباس هو عم اليسع.
Elisha [Al-Yasa`]
Elisha was a devout prophet who performed the miracle of resurrecting a dead person. He is mentioned in the Holy Qur'an twice and in the Torah as well.
اليسع : من العبدة الأخيار ورد ذكره في التوراة كما ذكر في القرآن مرتين ، ويذكر أنه أقام من الموت إنسانا كمعجزة.
Ezekiel [Dhul-Kifl]
Ezekiel was a devout prophet who used to observe prayer one hundred times a day. He took it upon himself to stand for justice among his people.
ذو الكفل : من الأنبياء الصالحين، وكان يصلي كل يوم مائة صلاة، قيل إنه تكفل لبني قومه أن يقضي بينهم بالعدل ويكفيهم أمرهم ففعل فسمي بذي الكفل.
Hud
One community, called `Ad, were strong and of huge stature. Allah blessed them in everything, but they were ungrateful to Him and began to worship idols. Allah sent them a messenger from among themselves to guide them. It was Hud who was born into a noble family and grew up virtuous and intelligent. He invited them to follow the way of Allah, and worked hard to counsel them. But they did not believe and were satisfied with the life of this world. They were destroyed by a fierce wind that blew and uprooted trees, demolished houses and flung animals away. It lasted for seven nights and eight days.
هود : أرسل إلى قوم عاد الذين كانوا بالأحقاف، وكانوا أقوياء الجسم والبنيان وآتاهم الله الكثير من رزقه ولكنهم لم يشكروا الله على ما آتاهم وعبدوا الأصنام فأرسل لهم الله هودا نبيا مبشرا، كان حكيما ولكنهم كذبوه وآذوه فجاء عقاب الله وأهلكهم بريح صرصر عاتية استمرت سبع ليال وثمانية أيام.
Idris
Idris was a grandfather of Noah and the first prophet after Adam to receive thirty Divine Scriptures. He called for the Oneness of Allah and was followed by one thousand people. Idris was the first to write, the first to wear sewn clothes and the first to think about astrology.
إدريس : كان صديقا نبيا ومن الصابرين، أول نبي بعث في الأرض بعد آدم، وهو أبو جد نوح، أنزلت عليه ثلاثون صحيفة، ودعا إلى وحدانية الله وآمن به ألف إنسان، وهو أول من خط بالقلم وأول من خاط الثياب ولبسها، وأول من نظر في علم النجوم وسيرها.
Isaac [Ishaq]
Isaac was Abraham's son by his wife Sarah, and the father of Jacob. The tidings of his birth were given to his parents by the angels who had been sent to destroy the city of the people of Lot. The Holy Qur'an referred to Isaac as "a son endowed with wisdom." Isaac was sent as a prophet to guide people to the right way.
إسحاق : هو ولد سيدنا إبراهيم من زوجته سارة، وقد كانت البشارة بمولده من الملائكة لإبراهيم وسارة لما مروا بهم مجتازين ذاهبين إلى مدائن قوم لوط ليدمروها عليهم لكفرهم وفجورهم، ذكره الله في القرآن بأنه "غلام عليم" جعله الله نبيا يهدي الناس إلى فعل الخيرات، جاء من نسله سيدنا يعقوب.
Ishmael [Isma`il]
Ishmael was the first son of Abraham by his second wife, Hajar. In compliance with Allah's command, Abraham moved the mother and her baby to a place in the desert, which came to be known as Mecca, and left them with little food and water. Suffering from lack of provisions, Hajar kept wandering here and there until the water of Zamzam gushed out from under the feet of her baby. The Well of Zamzam attracted many people to dwell in the region. Later, Ishmael helped his father implement the command of Allah regarding the construction of the Ka`bah. Abraham then had a revelation during his sleep, that he should sacrifice his son for the sake of Allah. Both the father and son were images of humility and obedience in their immediate response to the Will of Allah. However, Allah saved Ishmael from being sacrificed. Ishmael was a forbearing knight and was the first to tame horses. He is also said to have been the first to speak Classical Arabic. Prophet Ishmael called for the worship of the Only True God, and enjoined his people to practice prayer and charity.
إسماعيل : هو ابن إبراهيم البكر وولد السيدة هاجر، سار إبراهيم بهاجر - بأمر من الله - حتى وضعها وابنها في موضع مكة وتركهما ومعهما قليل من الماء والتمر ولما نفد الزاد جعلت السيدة هاجر تطوف هنا وهناك حتى هداها الله إلى ماء زمزم ووفد عليها كثير من الناس حتى جاء أمر الله لسيدنا إبراهيم ببناء الكعبة ورفع قواعد البيت، فجعل إسماعيل يأتي بالحجر وإبراهيم يبني حتى أتما البناء ثم جاء أمر الله بذبح إسماعيل حيث رأى إبراهيم في منامه أنه يذبح ابنه فعرض عليه ذلك فقال "يا أبت افعل ما تؤمر ستجدني إن شاء الله من الصابرين" ففداه الله بذبح عظيم، كان إسماعيل فارسا فهو أول من استأنس الخيل وكان صبورا حليما، يقال إنه أول من تحدث بالعربية البينة وكان صادق الوعد، وكان يأمر أهله بالصلاة والزكاة، وكان ينادي بعبادة الله ووحدانيته.
Jacob [Ya`qub]
Jacob, son of Isaac, the Prophet, was also called Israel which means "Servant of Allah." His grandparents, Abraham and Sarah, were given the tidings of his piety and prophethood. Jacob was the father of Joseph. His 12 sons became the progenitors of the tribes of Israel.
يعقوب : ابن إسحاق يقال له إسرائيل تعني عبد الله، كان نبيا لقومه، وكان تقيا وبشرت به الملائكة جده إبراهيم وزوجته سارة عليهما السلام وهو والد يوسف.
Jesus Christ [`Isa]
Almost as Adam had been created without a father or mother, Jesus Christ was born without a father. He was Allah's Word inspired to Mary. Allah gave him Clear Signs and endowed him with the Holy Spirit. He was held in honor both in this world and the Hereafter and in the company of those nearest to Allah. Jesus was strong in spirit, and very wise. Allah bestowed upon him the power to speak eloquently while still an infant in his cradle. Indeed, Jesus's miracles were innumerable. Allah taught him the Wisdom and Book, the Torah and the Gospel. Allah made him His Messenger to the Children of Israel. By Allah's leave, Jesus made the figure of a bird out of clay and breathed into it and it became a bird. He could, by Allah's leave, heal those born blind, lepers and even resurrect the dead. Jesus invited his people to worship Allah, the Only True God; but they rejected him and rebelled. Only the poor among them followed him. Allah raised Jesus up unto Himself and saved him from those who plotted to crucify him.
عيسى : مثل عيسى مثل آدم خلقه الله من تراب وقال له كن فيكون، هو عيسى بن مريم رسول الله وكلمته ألقاها إلى مريم، وهو الذي بشر بالنبي محمد، آتاه الله البينات وأيده بروح القدس وكان وجيها في الدنيا والآخرة ومن المقربين، كلم الناس في المهد وكهلا وكان يخلق من الطين كهيئة الطير فينفخ فيها فتكون طيرا، ويبرئ الأكمه والأبرص ويخرج الموتى كل بإذن الله، دعا المسيح قومه لعبادة الله الواحد الأحد ولكنهم أبوا واستكبروا وعارضوه، ولم يؤمن به سوى بسطاء قومه، رفعه الله إلى السماء وسيهبط حينما يشاء الله إلى الأرض ليكون شهيدا على الناس.
Jethro [Shu`aib]
Jethro was sent to the people of Madyan, who used to worship the Wood, usurp other's property and never adhere to due measures and weights. He invited them to adore Allah, give others their rights and deal with justice and equity. However, they not only threatened to banish and stone him, but were stubborn and demanded that he causes the sky to fall upon them in pieces. Thus, they were destroyed by the Mighty Blast.
شعيب : أرسل شعيب إلى قوم مدين وكانوا يعبدون الأيكة وكانوا ينقصون المكيال والميزان ولا يعطون الناس حقهم فدعاهم إلى عبادة الله وأن يتعاملوا بالعدل ولكنهم أبوا واستكبروا واستمروا في عنادهم وتوعدوه بالرجم والطرد وطالبوه بأن ينزل عليهم كسفا من السماء فجاءت الصيحة وقضت عليهم جميعا.
Job [Aiyub]
A descendant of Abraham, Job was a prophet who received Divine Revelation. He was a wealthy man and had many children. However, Allah caused him to lose all his fortune and sons and afflicted him with physical suffering that lasted for 18 years, during which all people deserted him. Only his wife persevered with him and worked to provide for him until he regained his health and was compensated for all he had lost. Job was so great an example of perseverance from suffering that on the Day of Judgment, Allah will make him a standard to refute the excuses of those who did not endure suffering.
أيوب : من سلالة سيدنا إبراهيم كان من النبيين الموحى إليهم، كان أيوب ذا مال وأولاد كثيرين ولكن الله ابتلاه في هذا كله فزال عنه، وابتلي في جسده بأنواع البلاء واستمر مرضه 18 عاما اعتزله فيها الناس إلا امرأته صبرت وعملت لكي توفر قوت يومهما حتى عافاه الله من مرضه وأخلفه في كل ما ابتلي فيه، ولذلك يضرب المثل بأيوب في صبره وفي بلائه، روي أن الله يحتج يوم القيامة بأيوب عليه السلام على أهل البلاء.
Jonah [Yunus, Dhul-Nun]
Jonah was Allah's messenger to the people of Ninawa to invite them to the worship of the Only True God. When they rejected him, he threatened them that punishment would come within three nights. Out of fear of being punished they believed in Allah. Jonah departed his people and later was on board of a sinking ship. After casting lots three times, Jonah was chosen to be thrown in the sea. He was swallowed by a great whale and was disgorged unharmed three days later. He was then sent to more than 100, 000 persons calling them to the worship of Allah.
يونس (ذو النون) : أرسله الله إلى قوم نينوى فدعاهم إلى عبادة الله وحده ولكنهم أبوا واستكبروا فتركهم وتوعدهم بالعذاب بعد ثلاث ليال فخشوا على أنفسهم فآمنوا فرفع الله عنهم العذاب، أما يونس فخرج في سفينة وكانوا على وشك الغرق فاقترعوا لكي يحددوا من سيلقى من الرجال فوقع ثلاثا على يونس فرمى نفسه في البحر فالتقمه الحوت وأوحى الله إليه أن لا يأكله فدعا يونس ربه أن يخرجه من الظلمات فاستجاب الله له وبعثه إلى مائة ألف أو يزيدون.
Joseph [Yusuf]
Joseph was the favorite son of Jacob. Once in a dream he saw eleven stars and the sun and the moon all bowing down to him. He went to his father and told him about his dream. He was happy, but advised his son not to tell his brothers about that dream. The brothers envied Joseph for his father loved him much more than any of them. They plotted to throw him in a well, and told his father that he had been killed by a wolf. Then, he was picked up by caravans who sold him to the Egyptian King for a low price. The king took care of Joseph, who preferred to be imprisoned rather than to yield to the lustful desires of the King's wife. Having been proved innocent, Joseph was released from prison and was appointed administrator of Egypt's grain storehouses which he managed wisely during the years of famine. During this period, Joseph's brothers came to Egypt seeking grain. Joseph made himself known to them and asked them to bring their family, including his father, to Egypt. They came and bo wed down to him as a fulfillment of his first dream.
يوسف : ولد سيدنا يعقوب وكان له 11 أخا وكان أبوه يحبه كثيرا وفي ذات ليلة رأى أحد عشر كوكبا والشمس والقمر له ساجدين، فقص على والده ما رأى فقال له ألا يقصها على إخوته، ولكن الشيطان وسوس لإخوته فاتفقوا على أن يلقوه في غيابات الجب وادعوا أن الذئب أكله، ثم مر به ناس من البدو فأخذوه وباعوه بثمن بخس واشتراه عزيز مصر وطلب من زوجته أن ترعاه، ولكنها أخذت تراوده عن نفسه فأبى فكادت له ودخل السجن، ثم أظهر الله براءته وخرج من السجن ، واستعمله الملك على شئون الغذاء التي أحسن إدارتها في سنوات القحط، ثم اجتمع شمله مع إخوته ووالديه وخروا له سجدا وتحققت رؤياه.
Lot [Lut]
Lot was Abraham's nephew. Allah sent him to a transgressing people who used to commit all abominable acts and indulge in their lusts with men rather than women. Lot frequently preached to them to abandon such heinous crimes and come to the right course of Allah, but they never obeyed him. Being disappointed in them, Lot prayed Allah to destroy them, but save the believers among them. Because Lot's wife was apparently not a believer, her previous sympathy for the sinful people destined her to a miserable end along with her people.
لوط : أرسله الله ليهدي قومه ويدعوهم إلى عبادة الله، وكانوا قوما ظالمين يأتون الفواحش ويعتدون على الغرباء وكانوا يأتون الرجال شهوة من دون النساء فلما دعاهم لوط لترك المنكرات أرادوا أن يخرجوه هو وقومه فلم يؤمن به غير بعض من آل بيته، أما امرأته فلم تؤمن ولما يئس لوط دعا الله أن ينجيهم ويهلك المفسدين فجاءت له الملائكة وأخرجوا لوط ومن آمن به وأهلكوا الآخرين بحجارة مسومة.
Moses [Musa]
Moses was sent to call Pharaoh and his people to believe in the Oneness of Allah. He was strengthened by a number of miracles. Allah instructed Moses to throw down his staff which miraculously turned into a huge snake and swallowed all the snakes which the magicians of Pharaoh had made appear. Moses was also instructed to put his hand in his pocket, and it came forth radiantly white, without stain. The Pharaoh promised severe punishments to the followers of Moses. Moses was commanded to leave Egypt with his people by night. Moses's followers were to cross the Red Sea towards Sinai in a huge procession. They were reassured not to fear the Pharaoh, nor the sea, nor the vast unknown desert of Sinai into which they were venturing. They crossed the Red Sea - after Moses struck the sea with his miraculous staff and made it split into dry passage - while the Pharaoh, who had pursued them with his troops, was overwhelmed by the sea.
موسى : أرسله الله تعالى إلى فرعون وقومه، وأيده بمعجزتين، إحداهما هي العصا التي تلقف الثعابين، أما الأخرى فكانت يده التي يدخلها في جيبه فتخرج بيضاء من غير سوء، دعا موسى إلى وحدانية الله فحاربه فرعون وجمع له السحرة ليكيدوا له ولكنه هزمهم بإذن الله تعالى، ثم أمره الله أن يخرج من مصر مع من اتبعه، فطارده فرعون بجيش عظيم، ووقت أن ظن أتباعه أنهم مدركون أمره الله أن يضرب البحر بعصاه لتكون نجاته وليكون هلاك فرعون الذي جعله الله عبرة للآخرين.
Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Muhammad, the Arab Prophet of Islam, was born in Mecca a few months after the death of `Abdullah, his father. Aminah, his mother had died when he was six. Thus he was brought up by `Abdul-Muttalib, his grandfather, then by Abu Talib, his uncle. He worked as a shepherd for a time. At the age of 25 he married Khadijah, who gave him optimum support. When he came to the age of forty, Muhammad received the Divine Revelation and started to invite the people of Mecca to believe that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger. Suffering severe persecution in Mecca, he allowed his followers to migrate to Yathrib (now Medina). This took place in the year 622 A.D. which, later on, became the starting point of the Hijri calendar. In Medina, the Prophet Muhammad established a state which was the nucleus of the Muslim empire. In the 10th Hijri year, he went to Mecca and performed the Farewell Hajj, shortly after which he died at the age of 63.
محمد (صلى الله عليه وسلم) : النبي الأمي العربي، من بني هاشم، ولد في مكة بعد وفاة أبيه عبد الله بأشهر قليلة، توفيت أمه آمنة وهو لا يزال طفلا، كفله جده عبد المطلب ثم عمه أبو طالب، ورعى الغنم لزمن، تزوج من السيدة خديجة بنت خويلد وهو في الخامسة والعشرين من عمره، دعا الناس إلى الإسلام أي إلى الإيمان بالله الواحد ورسوله، بدأ دعوته في مكة فاضطهده أهلها فهاجر إلى المدينة حيث اجتمع حوله عدد من الأنصار عام 622 م فأصبحت هذه السنة بدء التاريخ الهجري، توفي بعد أن حج حجة الوداع.
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Noah [Nuh]
Noah was a pious, sincere and truthful man. Allah chose him to guide his people who were idol-worshipers. Noah tried hard to make his people abandon idols and worship Allah alone, but only the poor followed him. Allah kept the rain from them, and Noah called them to accept the true faith so that Allah may give them rain and blessing. They feigned acceptance, but when Allah finally sent the rain to them and blessed their crops and children, they reverted to infidelity. After nine hundred and fifty years of persistent preaching, Noah despaired of those people and invoked Allah against them. Allah answered his prayer and ordered him to construct the Ark in which he and his followers would be saved. Then came the Flood which destroyed the blaspheming people completely.
نوح : كان نوح تقيا صادقا أرسله الله ليهدي قومه وينذرهم عذاب الآخرة ولكنهم عصوه وكذبوه، ومع ذلك استمر يدعوهم إلى الدين الحنيف فاتبعه قليل من الناس، واستمر الكفرة في طغيانهم فمنع الله عنهم المطر ودعاهم نوح أن يؤمنوا حتى يرفع الله عنهم العذاب فآمنوا فرفع الله عنهم العذاب ولكنهم رجعوا إلى كفرهم، وأخذ يدعوهم 950 سنة ثم أمره الله ببناء السفينة وأن يأخذ معه زوجا من كل نوع ثم جاء الطوفان فأغرقهم أجمعين.
Salih
Salih was Allah's prophet to the people of Thamud, who were endowed with abundant riches. Not only were they ungrateful for these blessings but they neglected the Lord, worshiped idols and boasted of their might. Allah sent Salih to warn them, but they asked for a miracle to support his allegations. Allah granted Salih a miraculous She-camel, and he warned his people against hurting it. Nevertheless, they persisted in their blasphemy and slaughtered the She-camel. They were destroyed by the Mighty Blast, but Salih and his followers were saved.
صالح : أرسله الله إلى قوم ثمود وكانوا قوما جاحدين آتاهم الله رزقا كثيرا ولكنهم عصوا ربهم وعبدوا الأصنام وتفاخروا بينهم بقوتهم فبعث الله إليهم صالحا مبشرا ومنذرا ولكنهم كذبوه وعصوه وطالبوه بأن يأتي بآية ليصدقوه فأتاهم بالناقة وأمرهم أن لا يؤذوها ولكنهم أصروا على كبرهم فعقروا الناقة وعاقبهم الله بالصاعقة فصعقوا جزاء لفعلتهم ونجى الله صالحا والمؤمنين.
Solomon [Sulaiman]
Solomon was a prophet of knowledge and wisdom. He had power and authority not only over men but the Jinn as well. Allah had bestowed upon him the ability to understand the means of communication among birds, beasts and ants. Solomon had a story with a hoopoe bird, that informed him about the Yemeni Kingdom of Sheba, whose people used to worship the sun. They were satisfied with their own human achievements, instead of looking to Allah, the True and Only God. Solomon invited Balqis, Queen of Sheba, to join the true Faith and bask in the light of Allah. Eventually, she accepted the Faith and joined Solomon in praising Allah.
سليمان : آتاه الله العلم والحكمة وعلمه منطق الطير والحيوانات وسخر له الرياح والجن، وكان له قصة مع الهدهد حيث أخبره أن هناك مملكة باليمن يعبد أهلها الشمس من دون الله فبعث سليمان إلى ملكة سبأ يطلب منها الإيمان ولكنها أرسلت له الهدايا فطلب من الجن أن يأتوا بعرشها فلما جاءت ووجدت عرشها آمنت بالله.
Yahya [John the Baptist]
Yahya, the son of Zechariah, was born in fulfillment of his father's supplication that Allah might grant him a righteous child. The sign of his birth was that his father would not speak to anyone for three days, though he was not dumb. Yahya was a devout prophet who was given wisdom at a young age.
يحيى : ابن نبي الله زكريا، ولد استجابة لدعاء زكريا لله أن يرزقه الذرية الصالحة فجعل آية مولده أن لا يكلم الناس ثلاث ليال سويا، وقد كان يحيى نبيا وحصورا ومن الصالحين ، كما كان بارا تقيا ورعا منذ صباه.
Zechariah [Zakariah]
Zechariah was a devout prophet who called for the True Religion. He took care of Mary the Virgin, and prayed Allah to grant him a virtuous child. Allah gave him John the Baptist [Yahya], who also called for the right way of Allah.
زكريا : عبد صالح تقي أخذ يدعو للدين الحنيف، كفل مريم العذراء، دعا الله أن يرزقه ذرية صالحة فوهب له يحيى الذي خلفه في الدعوة لعبادة الله الواحد القهار.
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