Ads by Muslim Ad Network

aaa

Fatwas for Muslims in the West (Live Session)

Sheikh Ahmad Kutty
07 February, 2018

Dear Brothers/Sisters,

 

Thank you very much for joining us in this Live Fatwa session. We would like also to thank our guest, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, for answering the questions directed to him. You will find the answers of your questions below.

Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018 | 20:00 - 23:00 GMT

Session is over.
DISCLAIMER
Views expressed by hosts/guests on this program (live dialogue, Facebook sessions, etc.) are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.  

How should Muslims keep their Islamic values in the West?



Muslims may do well to put in to practice all of the social ethics of Islam.

 

Let me list a few things:

 

1- Living as good neighbors by rendering acts of kindness and helping each other. The prophet lived these ideals before he became a prophet. We have the following testimony from his first wife Khadijah: How can Allah forsake you? You are the one who is ever ready to bear the burden of others; earn for those who are unable to do so, and rush to help those in distress! By Allah, He will never forsake you!!”

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

2- We ought to cooperate with them in acts of justice, virtue, and compassion. Allah orders us in the Qur’an: “And help one another in furthering (the cause of) virtue and God-consciousness, and do not help one another in furthering evil and enmity, and remain conscious of God: for, behold, God is severe in retribution!” (Al-Ma’idah 5: 2)

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

 

Can Muslims support their non-Muslim neighbors?



Good neighborliness is a fundamental teaching of Islam.

 

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Jibreel continued to teach me about my duties towards my neighbor until I thought he would make him my legal heir (to inherit my property).” Therefore, the Prophet (peace be upon him) warned the faithful: “By Allah, he cannot be a believer; he repeated these words thrice…then he said, “A person from whom his neighbors cannot feel safe!”

 

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said in his farewell sermon: “O people, your lord is one and your father is one… And he also said, “Do good to your neighbor you will be a believer; and love for all of mankind what you love for yourself you will be a Muslim.”

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

He also told his companion Abu Dharr: “when you cook a broth or soup, add extra water to it and share it with your neighbor.”

The Prophet’s beloved wife Aishah tells us that whenever the Prophet slaughtered a lamb, he would make parcels and send them as gifts to his neighbors.”

 

So, it behooves us, Muslims, to live the true teachings of Islam by establishing by rendering acts of kindness towards our neighbors and befriending them.

 

We also to cooperate with all people in acts of compassion, virtue and just causes.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

 

What does it mean to be a Muslim in the West?



A Muslim is one who submits to the will of Allah wherever he lives. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The whole earth belongs to Allah, and all people are servants of Allah; so you may settle down wherever you find it comfortable.”

Therefore, a Muslim should feel at home wherever he can practice his faith. It is relatively easy to do so in most of the pluralistic societies today, including Europe and North America. For sure we may face some challenges here and there; that should not stop us from practicing our religion.

We must remember that Islam teaches us to live in peace and harmony with everyone regardless of whether they are Muslims or not. And we are ordered to cooperate with everyone on virtue and acts of justice and compassion.

Islam also teaches us to live in harmony with nature. For Islam is all about living in peace: peace with ourselves, with our Creator, as well as with His creation.

 

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

Almighty Allah knows best.

Salam. Can one pray tahajud at the time of fajar azan?



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

Tahajjud ends with the arrival of Fajr. Therefore, you should not deliberately postpone tahajjud until the fajr time arrives.

If, however, you started the prayer and the Fajr adhan starts, then you can still complete the prayer as long as the congregational prayer did not begin – assuming that you are praying in the mosque, in which case, you ought to join it.

 

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

Almighty Allah knows best.

Salam, I was 9 when I wore the hijab. Since then I have been bullied severely and I have now moved to a Muslim school but even there less than a quarter wear hijab and most of them only wear it to school and take it off at home. I have been diagnosed with clinic depression and anxiety disorder so I have been trying to strengthen my connection with Allah and it’s made me feel hopeful but nothing seems to convince me to continue with the hijab. The bullying was so bad to the point I was suicidal, alhamdullilah I have recovered from that point but I really want to take my hijab off now. I was never a huge fan of it but I was pressured by my dad to wear it. I would still wear modest clothes and follow every other order of the Quran. I have researched deeply about the meaning of the hijab but I can’t seem to get along with it. You may also search the detailed answers on this site if you are still not convinced about the importance of hijab or modest Islamic dress code for women.



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

It seems to me that you are suffering from some inferiority complex. Somehow you hate to wear hijab; you should ask yourself: why do you think that way? If you love Allah and know that it is what Allah wants you to do, then you should be able to do it without any external pressure.

 

So, I would advise you not to do it for your father or anyone else. Instead, you should choose to do it for the sole reason of pleasing Allah: Your creator.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

Having said this, I would also rush to point out: wearing abayah is not an essential requirement of modest Islamic dress code for women. You may wear any loose-fitting clothes that fulfill the requirements. For details, you may access the answer linked below:

https://aboutislam.net/counseling/ask-the-scholar/women-issues/what-are-the-requirements-of-hijab/

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Asalam Alaikum Sheik,Based on what I have read, I know that it is Fitrah to pluck your underarm hair. However is it permissible in Islam for a women to get her underarm hair removed with laser hair removal? And if not, is shaving or waxing the underarm hair permissible?Jakallahu Kahir



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

It is not at all necessary to remove the underarm air by plucking; you may remove them by any other means through shaving, or waxing and even laser treatment. However, you are not allowed to expose your private parts to others in getting treatments.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

Asalaamu Alaykum. I'm interested in finding out what islam says regarding marriage for those who are deemed ugly by society because of a physical deformity. I myself have this problem and my friends and family are right on my case about getting married and having kids now as im 25. However the problem is i don't want to marry a girl and deprive her of the chance to marry a normal looking guy as she might end up resenting myself and indeed our marriage. Also any kids i have will be affected by this as well so thats my dilemma. I want more than anything at the moment to get married and have a family, especially when i see other families out and about but im also trying to protect any potential future family from the disappointment of my deformity. Does islam harbor any leniency regarding getting married in a case like this. Jazak Allah Khairun



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

They say, ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder.’ Islam teaches us that the real beauty is the beauty of character. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Allah does not look at your shape or appearance; rather He looks at your heart (and your actions).”

 

So, as a believer, you should never despise yourself. No matter how you look, you are still valuable in the sight of Allah as long as you are truthful and faithful to Allah. Remember Islamic history is full of people who were considered less than handsome and yet they were valued as real heroes, leaders, and exemplars.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

So, I would urge you to change your self-talk and convince yourself that you are valuable. So, be confident and change your self-talk and you will soon realize that people will start treating you differently. The best way to prove your worth is by excelling in your work and character. You can hope that it will bring you the acceptance of Allah and the people.

So, never give up on marriage. Perhaps by changing your self-talk and proving your worth through your actions and character, you will attract marriage partners with the help of Allah. So, believe in Allah and believe in yourself; Allah can make miracles happen.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Assalamu Alaikum, I know a person and like him a lot. Recently he got diagnosed with ADHD. His behavior towards me is often times inattentive nowadays. But he is still caring like before. I want to marry him so I did Istikhara. I did not see any colors. I saw him treating me bad in my dream. But I feel like I saw whatever was going on inside my head for the last few days. After waking up the only feeling I had was that I should wait to see if things change back to how they were once he goes to therapy. He agreed to go. I know we both have to make adjustments in this situation and I am ready to do that. However, I have heard previously that after istikhara events may unfold in a way that's best for me. I am getting depressed thinking what if Allah takes him away from me. I know it would be for my best but I am very sad. What does my dream mean? How do I interpret this? Was my dream an indication that he is bad for me or was it from the Shayateen? If so, then why am I being inclined towards seeing what happens from now on? The person I like is not very religious, but he is a Muslim.



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

It is not necessary for a person to see visions or dreams after making istikharah. Istikharah is meant to seek the help of Allah in facilitating the task or work you are considering. You are asking Allah: if it is good for me then make it easy for me to achieve. If, on the other hand, it is not suitable for me then turn me away from it and turn it away from me.

 

So, if after istikharah you made the proposal and he accepts the offer, then you should think it as a positive sign.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

If he is suffering from a medical challenge, which is going to affect your married life, then you are not bound to proceed with it unless he gets the necessary treatment. If however, you are willing to accept him as he is then you may do so; it is up to you.

 

For details about istikharah, you may look for the answers posted on this site.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

 

In your forum their was a question “can Imam mosque take salaries and the scholar gave reference of some fatwa and said it’s not haram and and said “Some scholars draw an analogy between the point in question and obtaining money for teaching the Qur’an. They argue that, if we say that the money obtained by the imam and the one who teaches people the Qur’an is haram, then many people will stop teaching others the Qur’an, which is a great loss.” So my question is a) if it’s not haram .. then does that make it surely halal ? Or is it still a matter of confusion and debate ? B) if people who will stop teaching Quran or Imam not go mosque because of money then this is like confirmation that those people are hypocrites and doing haram because they are thinking of only money (worldly gain). C) also in Surah baqrah verse 41 .. (in a small part my understanding is that do not sell ayat for a small price) , so doesn’t it refer to not taking money ( Worldly gain) ?



What you raised above is an issue which has been discussed by scholars in detail. There is no doubt that if someone leads the prayer or reads the Qur’an or calls the adhan and asks those in the congregation specifically for payment, then that is considered as haram.

 

But the case is different from someone who has been appointed as an imam or teacher or mua’ddhin and he is given remuneration for him to support himself instead of his services then that is lawful.

 

It has been the well-established practice of the Muslims down through centuries; the pious caliphs set a precedent and it, has continued through the centuries. They received their salaries form the public treasury or from the endowments or funds of the mosques or institutions.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

The above practice (and ruling) derives its justification from the consideration of maslahah (public interest). We are ordered to establish prayer and maintain the mosques and organize the services as efficiently as possible. Imamah, adhan and teaching the Quran and Islam are essential services which require dedicated people.  And the community has to look after them unless they are well to do and they are not in need of any material support.

 

According to the rules of jurisprudence, if something becomes obligatory and it cannot be completed unless something else is fulfilled, then fulfilling the latter also becomes obligatory.

 

In light of these, no one can find fault with imams or teachers of the Qur’an or muadhins taking salaries for their work – if they are not able to support themselves.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

 

Assalamualaikum my dear brothers.I had an important questionI want to ask if we can pray for the deceased ie make duaThere's a website i read which says the rewards do not reached the deceased as it is a form of intercession. Here is a link to the website:http://www.quran-islam.org/articles/prayers_for_the_dead_(P1169).htmlI also know that there is a hadith of our beloved prophet Muhammad (saws) in which he states that there are three things which can benefit the deceased: 1: knowledge that the deceased left behind. 2: a righteous child who prays for him And i forgot the third one.There's also another hadith which says that a man's status will be raised on the day of judgment. He will ask how did i get here and he will be told that by your son making dua for your forgiveness.Please can you help clarify this issue for me because i don't believe that the prophet can ever lie or getting anything wrong.I also wanted to ask, apart from dua and charity, is there anything else i can do to benefit my muslim granny? Like say if i dig a well and people drank water from it will this count as a charity?Thank you very much for the effort you are all putting in to help knowledge seekers and i pray to Allah that may he reward you all for your efforts.JazakhAllah khairun



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

Praying for those who have passed away is an essential teaching of Islam – confirmed by the evidence of the sources: the Qur’an, the Sunnah and the consensus of Muslims. To cite a few verses from the Qur’an:

“And so, they who come after them pray:  “O our Lord! Forgive us our sins, as well as those of our brethren who preceded us in faith, and let not our hearts entertain any unworthy thoughts or feelings against [any of] those who have attained to faith. O our Lord! Verily, You are the Compassionate, a dispenser of grace!” (Al-Hashr 59: 10)

“And Allah tells us also in the Qur’an that children pray for their parents: “My Lord, have mercy on our parents even as they showed mercy towards me when I was little.” (Al-Isra’ 17: 24)

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

And the Prophet Nuh prayed:

“O My Lord! Grant Your forgiveness unto me and unto my parents, and unto everyone who enters my house as a believer, and unto all believing men and believing women [of later times]; and grant Thou that the doers of evil shall increasingly meet with destruction!” (Nuh 71: 28)

And the Prophet Ibrahim prayed to Allah: “My Lord, Grant Thy forgiveness unto me, and my parents, and all the believers, on the Day on which the [last] reckoning will come to pass!” (Ibrahim 14:41)

The Prophet (peace be upon him) also established the clear precedent of praying for those who passed away through funeral prayers as well as at other times such as visiting graves, etc.

 

Once a man asked the Prophet (peace be upon him) on whether he owes anything towards his parents after they have passed away, he replied:

 

 

Yes, one should pray for them.., fulfill their pledges, honor their friends, and foster their ties of kinship.”

Based on such evidence, the Muslim consensus is that the deceased benefit from prayers and good deeds were done on behalf of one’s parents, relatives or friends.

As for the other types of good deeds, you may access the answer linked below:

https://aboutislam.net/counseling/ask-the-scholar/funeral/what-act-should-i-do-that-will-benefit-my-dead-parents/

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

I live in a 26 storey apartment building. Sometimes, it is inevitable for me to be in the same lift alone with a non-mahram woman. Is this considered khulwa? I can try to wait for an empty lift but it might not be easy especially during peak periods. Even if I do so, non-mahram women can enter on other levels as well. If this happens, am I obliged to leave the elevator or stop them from entering?



It is not considered khalwah if you happen to be in an elevator with a non-mahram since you have no choice. And we are told in the Qur’an that we are not accountable for things we have no control over.

 

However, when faced with a situation like that, you owe it to yourself to turn your mind away from sinful thoughts and stares, and focus your mind on dhikr so that you can guard yourself against falling into sins.

 

This is why we are told to arm ourselves with the weapon of du`aa’ and dhikr while venturing out of home. The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us to supplicate as follows: “Bismillaahi tawakkaltu ala Allah laa hawla walaa quwwata illaa billaah. Allaahumma innee a’oodhu bika an adhilla aw udhal aw azilla aw uzall aw ajhala aw ujhala alayya (In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah; there is no power to seek good or strength to resist evil except by the will of Allah. O Allah, I seek Your protection against going astray or being led astray, or slipping up or being caused to slip up, or acting foolishly or others acting foolishly towards me).

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

And the Prophet tells us that when a person makes the  above supplications three times, the angles will say: you are guarded and protected and Satan keeps a distance from him or her.

It is not considered as forbidden khalwah if you happen to be in an elevator with a non-mahram since you have no choice. And we are told in the Qur’an that we are not accountable for things we have no control over. However, when faced with a situation like that, you owe it to yourself to turn your mind away from sinful thoughts and stares and focus your mind on dhikr so that you can guard yourself against falling into sins.

That is why we are told to arm ourselves with the weapon of du’a and dhikr while venturing out of the home. The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us to supplicate as follows:

“Bismillaahi tawakkaltu ala Allah laa hawla walaa quwwata illaa billaah. Allaahumma innee a’oodhu bika an adhilla aw udhal aw azilla aw uzall aw ajhala aw ujhala alayya (In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah; there is no power to seek good or strength to resist evil except by the will of Allah. O Allah, I beg for Your protection against going astray or being led astray, or slipping up or being caused to slip up, or acting foolishly or others treating me likewise.)

And the Prophet tells us that when a person makes the above supplications three times, the angles will say: you are guarded and protected, and Satan keeps a distance from him or her.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

As salam mu aliakum! I am a delivery driver for amazon and some times I am required to deliver packages to churches and conventional banks, bare in mind that I have the choice to cancel or report their orders as missing when needed. Is it allowed for me to make such deliveries and is my income halal?



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

As a Muslim, you are obligated to fulfill your duties as an employee. Allah tells us that one of the essential traits of the servants of the Merciful is that they are faithful to their covenants and pledges. And that includes among others performing our duties at work as efficiently as possible; otherwise, the salary we earn becomes unlawful and impure. We should earn our salary through honest work. So, if you are a delivery agent and your job involves delivering items to church or temple or any other place, you ought to deliver them as honestly as possible. If you are remiss in it, then your income is earned through unlawful and unethical ways. You cannot make a false claim and refuse to deliver the same.

 

If you are not happy with the job, you should look for some other job. But as a Muslim, you ought to fulfill your duties as faithfully as possible; otherwise, you are guilty of cheating and fraud.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

Remember our beloved prophet took on the job for his wife Khadijah and earned her trust by doing it with integrity. It was his character that made him her faith, and thus she went out of her way to propose to him, even though he was poor!

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Assalam alaikum charitable scholars,I was raised by an abusive mother who didnt spare me any form of abuse during my childhood. this still haunts to today I ve spent years undergoing psychiatric treatment. Now she is old and not only does islam ask me to be kind to her but also spend on her. I do take care of her financial needs but with so much bitterness. What do you advise me or what does the sheriah say in my situation? Jazakum Lhahu khairan



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

You should not retaliate against your mother; instead, you should forgive her. By doing that you would be standing on a high moral ground. And you would undoubtedly please your Lord as well, and thus you merit greater rewards.

 

The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us to forgive those who offend us and foster ties with those who sever relations with us. If this is a general rule to follow with others, then it should apply to our parents first.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

Your mother perhaps didn’t know any better. Now that you are a mature adult you should not take it on her. You should forgive her and treat her as honorably as you can.

 

The Prophet (peace be upon him) was asked: “I had some blood relations, no matter how good I treat them they act rudely towards me and sever ties with me; should I still try to join relations with them?”, the Prophet (peace be upon him) replied, “Regardless of what they do to you, you should continue to foster ties of kinship!” Allah will reward you, and they will be accountable for their misdeeds.

 

So, regardless of how your mother had treated you in the past, you owe it to her to serve her as best as you can.
Almighty Allah knows best.

I cunfuse about mazi and manni which coming out from the place of urine.Almost all morning when I wake up then I find one or two little drop of liquid but look like mazi that coming out without lust mostly on winter or when sleep for more time.May be this is due to ilness or anything else I dont know.Do it make gussal wajib on me or not.Im very depressed.Plz help me jazak ALLAH khaira.sorry for my english. This is happen mostly on winter or when i sleep more than 6 to 7 hrs.



Maniy is the fluid that is released through the penis during orgasm.

As for madhy, it is pre-seminal fluid; orgasm does not accompany it.

The wetness you experience is not due to semen. Rather it is due to madhy.

In the case of seminal ejaculation, you ought to perform ritual ghusl; in the case of madhy, you need only to wash your genitals and renew your wudu.

Almighty Allah knows best.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

Assalamu'alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh, Ever since I was young, writing and reading fiction has always been my hobby.I take English Literature in University, and perhaps I will go into book publishing or book editorial afterwards (just a possibility.)Ever since I was young I always wanted to one day publish fiction novels. The genres I enjoy are science fiction, and fantasy.I would like clarity regarding the matter of fiction novel writing in Islam. Some say it is impermissible since it is lying However, as Umm Zakiyah says " " Furthermore, what is the stancr of writing about non-Muslim characters? Even if there is a good moral teaching in the story, and usually with sci-fi or fantasy novels, it teaches you to not look at the world as you see it, but dig deeper and you will find hidden evils and usually some sort of great conspiracy the characters must be aware of and usually aim to confront.In the fantasy stories I write, I do not wish to include occultism and witchery. But things derived from various Mythologies etc. Which are quite obviously all just false stories. I wouldn't dare to mess or incorporate any of the truths that Allah SWT has informed us of, and from personal experience I know and believe in.Alhamdullilah, I pray 5x a day, and I do not let writing etc. get in the way of those religious duties, of course I know I have areas to improve on still. Nor do I allow it to hinder my spiritual growth.Also, I have read, since there is no clear distinction of it being forbidden in Hadiths or the Quran, like drawing images has, then it is permissible? Especially if the stories held some good moral value to them. But also there is a hadith which says if the matter is doubtful to leave it, But also it is a sin to turn what is halal into the haram, and too much deep questioning is what tore apart the religions before us, and so Allah swt send us the Quran and Messenger (PBUH) as a clear guidance. Some say fiction writing is a waste of time, however for those who may be talented in writing, and gain income from it: "the principle of moderation should be pervasive in our thought processes and at the forefront of our reasoning in daily life.We should be moderate when it comes to balancing the duties of religion and the duties of worldly life. Some of the companions complained to the Prophet about the mixed feelings they experienced. When they were in the study circle of the Prophet, their awareness of the Hereafter and its realities would be at its peak, while when they returned to family and work their lives would carry on as usual. The Prophet told them that this was normal and that a Muslim ought to devote time to the Hereafter as well as worldly life. (Source: https://abuaminaelias.com/moderation-and-balance-in-islam/)This is an article by a Muslim fiction author that provided insight on that side of the debate: http://ummzakiyyah.com/writing_fiction/Regarding fiction writing, I know that writing intimate scenes are wrong, because you are distributing and promoting such material is understandably not good to partake in, but what of writing Romance? Am I spreading indecency? What about writing about non-Muslim characters, for example in fantasy genres most characters would be imaginary mythical creatures. Is it wrong to get readers to picture these characters in their minds? My personal conviction is in the word and oneness of Allah, and I strive to be closer to him and understand this clearer. I feel literature is useful, as it helps humans recognise our similarities to each other. Someone might struggle with something, and you find a story character who reflects that struggle and you find ease through it. Whilst growing up, when I had difficulties in my own life, books offered a relief, I didn't go looking for pleasure in the worldly life, because you get to experience countless lives through books, and that for me at least was enough. And all the characters and fantasy worlds I would discover in these books, only helped build my faith in the HereAfter. Yes people have desires for a certain job, or certain outcomes in life etc. But the real, fantastical dreams, people, perhaps writers most of all, imagine these things, and I know it can only ever be true in the HereAfter, where there is what no one could ever even begin to imagine.This article by Ruqqayah Kareem also demonstrates many good insight about writing fiction: www.criticalmuslim.io/the-case-for-fictional-islamFinally, and what if I state clearly in the beginning of the book, that all events are pure imagination, I do not wish to promote or distribute any indecency, and Allah Alone is the Creator, Most Merciful, Most Wise and the Best Judge. _The Prophet (SAW) said:"Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded."Sahih Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 2, Number 38 _ The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said "Make matters easy and do not make them difficult, give glad tidings and do not make people averse," Recorded by Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of Anas. _ Jazak Allahu Khairun.



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

Fiction, poetry and other forms of art are media; and like any medium, it is to be judged by the way we use it and its effects. It is not different from other forms of written or spoken word. We are questioned about how we use them and for what purpose? It is said that Jahiz, one of the greatest writers in Arabic – who also wrote fiction- appeared to someone in a dream. And the person asked him about his work: Jahiz replied, “Do not write with your hands anything that you would have reason to regret about it on the day of judgment.”

So, if your purpose in choosing this genre is to promote virtue then it is indeed a virtuous deed; it is not only permissible; nay, it is a form of jihad meriting great rewards. If on the other hand, its results are the opposite: promoting vice and corruption, then it is haram, and you would have to pay a hefty price for it.

 

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

“There is no good in most of their secret converse, save for him who enjoins charity or kindness or reconciliation between men. And whosoever does that, seeking God’s Good Pleasure, We shall grant him a great reward.” (An-Nisaa’ 4:114)

 

Therefore, ask yourself: What am I seeking to accomplish through this work? Can I convince myself that my work will fall into the category of those that are intended to benefit society in making them more virtuous or moral or compassionate?

 

If the answer is yes, you should go ahead and excel in your work by seeking the help of Allah.

Almighty Allah knows best.

 

Asalam o Alaikum,!!! I would like to know about the status of this type of nikkah whether it is valid or not. Two people did nikkah only (Ijaab and Qubool) just through text message. There was no witnesses, no legal guardian, no mahr involved. The people never declared themselves husband wife in public nor ever had actual sexual act. So is the marriage in that case valid or invalid. Some muftis say no it is not valid as the offer and acceptance of nikkah is not audible nor were the witnesses present which is the least requirement for nikkah's validity. But then I came across a website which says according to Hanafi Madhb only ijaab and qubool is pillar for validity and other things are prerequisites. So this statement is confusing and somehow clashing with the fatwas of muftis (According to me). But in this case it was a text message just with no other requirement fulfilled. So is there any legal or Islamic status of that nikkah? Now after all this if the girl wants to remarry what should she do? Should she marry WITHOUT ANY DOUBT if the nikkah is invalid? Or should has to ask for divorce. Now I must tell you that getting divorce for her would be very difficult as this happened many years ago and she is not in touch with that man since then and also her family does not know about this. Just her mother knows about it and according to her this type of nikkah is just a JOKE and nothing else. So I would like to ask for you expert opinion on this matter. Jazak Allah



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

It is not considered a valid marriage if a man and woman simply declared themselves as husband and wife no matter whether they refer to it as ijab and qabool (offer and acceptance). Marriage in

 

Islam is a solemn social contract which has both religious and social elements so that it must be distinct from a secret affair or liaison. For details, let me cite her from one of my earlier answers:

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

The minimum conditions for the validity of nikah are the following:

  • The consent of the guardian of the woman
  • presence of witnesses
  • offering and acceptance
  • and mahr (dower).

Once the above conditions have been fulfilled, the marriage will be deemed as valid; but if these conditions are not fulfilled, then it will be considered as being null and void.

 

As far as the consent of guardian is concerned, it can only be dispensed with if the guardian is simply refusing to give consent for considerations other than Islamic, in which case the judge can authorize the marriage after having followed the due process.

 

If, on the other hand, such is not the case and no attempt was made to ascertain the consent of the guardian, then such a marriage would be considered invalid and, therefore, unacceptable in Islam. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “There is no (valid) marriage without a guardian and two reliable witnesses.”

 

By stipulating the above-mentioned conditions for the validity of marriage, Islam insists that a marriage should remain distinct from other loose and immoral lifestyles such as fornication and illicit affairs. Hence, the Prophet insisted on making marriages public.

 

Based on what has been stated above, the concept of a marriage “just for both of you or for Allah” is not tolerated in Islam.

 

Society has a share in marriage in the sense that people should know that both of you are married so that they do not suspect you of maintaining an illicit relationship. According to the teachings of Islam, we are under obligation to do whatever we can to safeguard our religion, honor, and dignity; and as such we should stay away not only from that which is considered as strictly haram or forbidden but also from all that is doubtful and dubious. The Prophet (peace and blessings be him) said, “Whosoever shuns what is doubtful he has protected his religion and honor; but whosoever commits what is doubtful, he may inadvertently fall into haram!”

 

In light of these, there is no need for her to get a divorce as the marriage didn’t take place.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Asalaamu alikum hope u r in a good health I have a question about my brother who want to marry his first cousin. He himself likes that girl but no one else want this to happen. Because my brother was breastfeed by her mother when her elder brother was also breastfeeding and my cousin sister was not born at that time. Is it permissible for them to undergo marriage



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

Your brother is a brother to the daughter of his milk-mother or the woman who breastfed him. Therefore, he is not allowed to marry her since he is her mahram.

 

We read in the Qur’an:

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

“Forbidden to you are your mothers, and your daughters, and your sisters, and your aunts paternal and maternal, and a brother’s daughters, and a sister’s daughters; and your milk-mothers, and your milk-sisters; and the mothers of your wives; and your step-daughters – who are your foster children – born of your wives with whom you have consummated your marriage; but if you have not consummated your marriage, you will incur no sin [by marrying their daughters]; and [forbidden to you are] the spouses of the sons who have sprung from your loins; and [you are forbidden] to have two sisters [as your wives] at one and the same time – but what is past is past: for, behold, God is indeed much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.” (An-NIsaa’ 4:23)

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Assalamu alaikum 1.If I save full beard. it is hala or haram 2.Hijama is True ? Is it Prophet (sal) way?



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

In answering your first question, let me cite her one of my earlier answers:

 

“Growing a beard is considered a great Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). It is also one of the great legacies inherited from all of the previous prophets and messengers of Allah. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) ordered us: “Grow your beards and trim or clip the moustaches.”

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

In light of such precedents, most of the past scholars and Imams go as far as declaring that growing a beard is obligatory on males.

What we stated above makes it clear that no Muslim should take the issue of the beard lightly. At the same time, we must also state categorically that one should not conclude from what has been said earlier that growing a beard in Islam has the same religious significance as that of the other prescribed rituals. This is definitely not the case. Thus it is important for us to recognize that we are not allowed to ostracize men who do not have beards nor are we to question their basic faith.
Since beard is undoubtedly a great Sunnah, every Muslim male should try to practice this Sunnah according to the best of his ability. Allah does not take us to task for what is beyond our power or ability. We are told to fear Allah as best as we can.”

 

As for the 2nd question on Hijamah or blood cupping, you are advised to my detailed answer linked below:

Does Islam Encourage Cupping?

Almighty Allah knows best.

1. I heard that it is ok to look at women in unavoidable circumstances like in malls. How do I know whether I have excuse for my gaze? 2. Also i heard that in some circumstances masturbation is permitted. One girl told me that she wants to marry me. But I don't find her attractive. I don't find it easy to approach other girls also. Do I have excuse for my masturbation? 3. Does thinking about a woman because of love and not really sexually come under lustful thoughts? 4. Does following women come under fornication by foot? 5. Are the above sins small or big?



Let me answer the points you have raised in their respective order:

 

1- While coming across or face to face with women you are excused for the first glance, which is unavoidable. However, you are not allowed to stare at them lustfully. You need not turn your face away from a woman you are conversing with as long as you are not flirting around.

 

2- Masturbation is permitted only in extreme cases to guard against falling into fornication or adultery.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

3- We are accountable for lustful thoughts; while we are not accountable for pure thoughts. You should decide it for yourself based on your conscience that fears Allah and the Last Day.

 

4- The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Eyes fornicate, mind fornicates, and the private parts consummate the act or shun it. Fornication of eyes consists in lustful stares; fornication of the mind involves lustful thoughts.”

5- Lustful stares, talks, etc. are minor sins as long as a person does not take them to the next level: fornication. Minor sins are redeemed or washed away by good deeds and istighfaar (asking forgiveness of Allah).

 

I pray to Allah to embellish our hearts with love of faith and virtue and make us hate sins of all kinds: major and minor, open and secret, outward and inward. Amen.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

I had a dream in which Allah was telling me not to marry. There was no image of Allah. I saw open Quran and saw light of Allah which hid the text. There was a message showing text in big letters across both the passage. Though the letters were in English, it meant words in my mother tongue, not to marry. I was not having any income at that time. I was happy to have this dream and felt Allah likes me. Later I married and got divorced. What does this dream indicate or mean?



You should not give importance to such idle dreams; Allah does not appear to people in dream visions.

 

We are not bound to act on dreams in matters of Shari`ah. Shari`ah is based on the twin sources of the Book and the Sunnah and inferences from them.

 

So, if you have a desire for union and you find it hard to save yourself from falling into sins, you should get married whenever the opportunity arises.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

For further details on the status of marriage in Islam, let me cite here one of my previous answers:

 

“Although marriage is generally considered a highly recommended act, yet from the point of view of fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence)—because of diverse circumstances—it can readily fall into one of the four categories listed below: Fard (obligatory) or mustahabb (recommended) or haram (forbidden) or simply halal (permitted).

  1. Marriage is considered fard(obligatory) if a person is so tormented by sexual desire that he/she fears falling into the sin of fornication. Since staying away from fornication is obligatory, and since marriage is the only avenue for legitimate sexual satisfaction, it becomes obligatory on such a person to get married. This is based on the principle in jurisprudence that says: “If an obligatory thing cannot be fulfilled except by fulfilling another, then fulfilling the latter becomes equally obligatory.”
  2. If, however, he or she is not so tormented by sexual desire, and, hence, there is no fear of falling into sin, then it is highly recommended to get married if one has the means to do so. By doing so, one is fulfilling one of the great Sunnahs of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), our perfect role model.
  3. If a person knows for certain that he or she cannot fulfill the duties required in marriage, and there is no fear of his/her falling into sin, then it becomes haramfor such a person to get married. Islam forbids us from doing injustice to another person; this would definitely be the case if one were to neglect his/her spousal duties.
  4. If a person has no means to marry and is, therefore, incapable of fulfilling his spousal duties, but has strong desire, it is permitted for him to get married—provided he tries earnestly to seek an honest source of living. Allah has promised to help such a person. We must also add here a further note that the Muslim community has a duty to assist such people until such time that they become self-reliant.

If, however, no such measures are available, and a person finds himself unable to fulfill his spousal duties, he is advised to curb his desires through the discipline of fasting and other acts of sublimation.”

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Is becoming angry, asking questions to people and lack of sociability sins?



Anger is a normal emotion with humans as long as one does not get carried away with it to do what is hurtful to oneself or others.

 

Asking questions is fine as long as our intention to seek clarification or learn something new. Questioning for the sake of questioning is indulging in frivolities; it is good for us to remember that we will be questioned about our speech, wilful thoughts and actions. The Prophet (peace be upon him)said, “Hold your tongue or restrain your speech!”; whence the companion asked. “Are we accountable for our speech?’, he replied, “most people are in hell because of the harvest of their tongues!”

 

The Prophet (peace be upon him), “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak only that which is good; if not let him remain silent.”

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

“And silence is wisdom; however very people practice it.”

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Scholar told me I have to make double repentance when I force someone into sin. He said I have to urge him to repent. Are not mistakes done under coersion excused? Why should I urge him to repent? Please explain



You owe it to yourself to make double repentance: first on behalf of yourself and second on behalf of the person you have forced to sin.

 

Even as a person who inspires and sets a good example is rewarded doubly, a person who misleads and compels people sin would also earn double punishment. Allah says:

 

“[And God] will say: “Join those hosts of invisible beings and humans who have gone before you into the fire!” [And] every time a host enters [the fire], it will curse its fellow-host -so much so that, when they all shall have passed into it, one after another, the last of them will speak [thus] of the first of them:  “O our Sustainer! It is they who have led us astray: give, them, therefore, double suffering through fire!” He, will reply: “Every one of you deserves double suffering -but you know it not.” (Al-A`raf 7:38)

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Should we obey our parents in all mundane matters? What if they say against logic or if we have good intentions?



We ought to obey our parents in all matters that are beneficial for them in this world and the next while sparing and protecting them from any form of harm or hurt. Obedience to parents can be compared to obedience to the Prophet (peace be upon him) when Allah tells that the believers should not disobey him in any honorable or any good act : “And would not disobey thee in anything honorable or (any good act).”

 

The scholars have stipulated that we are not bound to obey our parents in the following cases:

 

1- If they order us to disobey Allah and His Messenger.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

2- If they request us to do things that are harmful to ourselves (and are not of any benefit to them in this world or hereafter).

 

3- If they order something silly or unreasonable: prevent us from working or traveling (unless doing so would deprive them of the essential care they need).

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Assalamu alaikum, My mother gets angry or irritated over silly matters like asking anything which she doesnt know or asking to repeat something. I fear it will affect me. So I try to stop her by asking why she gets angry which makes her more angry. What should i do in such situations. Is asking these questions not allowed?



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

You need to exercise patience and treat your mother with mercy and kindness. Allah orders us to pray to Him: My Lord, have mercy on my parents even as they were merciful to me when I was little.”

 

Imagine how patient your mother was towards you when you were a child. She bore everything patiently and attended to all of your needs without complaining.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

That is what we need to keep in mind when we grow up, and our parents attain old age.

 

Allah, therefore, tells us to remember as our parents reach old age, we cannot expect them to be patient as before. That is why Allah orders us to guard against all expressions of protest or disgust while interacting with them:

 

“For Your Lord has ordained that you shall worship none but Him. And do good unto [thy] parents.  Should one of them, or both, attain to old age in thy care, never say “Ugh”(inArabic, uff – a word or sound indicative of contempt, dislike or disgust to them or scold them, but [always] speak unto them with reverent speech, and spread over them humbly the wings of thy tenderness,  and say: “O my Lord! Bestow Your grace upon them, even as they cherished and reared me when I was a child!” (Al-Israa’ 17: 23-24)

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Assalamu alaikum, I committed a big sin in a non-muslim country without knowledge about the sin. If I happen to be in a muslim country, does it have the right to punish me? Do I have to repent for big sins committed under ignorance? Jazak Allahu khayr



 Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

If you sinned without knowledge, then you may be excused. However, you need to ask your conscience: Do you believe that you didn’t know that it was a sinful act? You should know that Allah knows the innermost secrets of our hearts and He warns us that no matter how much excuses we may proffer we are accountable for our voluntary actions.

 

Allah says,

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

“Nay, but man shall against himself be an eye-witness, –  even though he may veil himself in excuses.” (Al-Qiyamah 75:14-15)

 

It is essential for us to know that we must seek a basic knowledge of our religion. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Seeking knowledge is a duty upon every Muslim (whether male or female).”

 

So, there is no excuse for anyone to feign ignorance of our essential duties as Muslims. It should not pose a problem in the modern world -given the abundant resources available for those who look for them.

 

Having said this, I would ask you to turn to Allah in repentance. Here is a supplication you may use consistently:

 

Allahumma ighfir lee dhanbee kullahu diqqahu wa jillahu sirrahu wa alaaniyyathau wa awwalahu wa aakhirahu wa maa alimthu minhu wa maa lam a’lam

(O Allah, forgive for me all of my sins: major and minor, secret and public, the first and the last, and that which I am aware of and that which I am not aware.”

 

As for whether you will be punished for your sins if you were in a Muslim country, it all depends on the type of crimes and the due process of law. So, I cannot comment on this.

 

As a Muslim, you should be more worried about the judgment of Allah more than anything else.

 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Assalamu alaikum, How do we make istikharah if there are more than two options? Like aiming 100 % or 99% or 98 % in an exam. Or adding each point in a graduate application essay. Should we make separate Istrikharah for each choice? Or can it be an istikharah for consulting conscience regarding the essay? Jazak Allahu khayr



Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

 

Istikharah is seeking the help of Allah in making decisions or choices. It is not meant to absolve us of our duty to work hard. The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us against abandoning ourselves to the fate: He told the person who let his camel wander free wander in the desert hoping that God to take care of it: Go and  tie your camel securely, then put your trust in Allah!”

 

So, as a student, you cannot merely make istikharah and wait for the best grade unless you prepare for the exam by putting forth the best of your efforts. Once you have done that, you can make istikharah and ask Allah to bless your efforts.

Ads by Muslim Ad Network

 

There is no need for you to get into such details; instead, it is sufficient to ask Allah to bless your efforts to gain the best grade.

 

For details on the meaning and purpose of istikharah, you may access the answers on this site.

 

Istikharah

 

Almighty Allah knows best.