Selected hadith (HadeethEnc), Jurisprudence and Juristic Principles

Zaynab, the daughter of the Prophet (ﷺ), passed away. The Prophet (ﷺ) entered upon the women who were to wash her and said to them: Wash her with water and lote leaves an odd number of times—three, or five, or more if needed—and in the final wash, add some camphor. When you finish, inform me. When they finished washing her, they informed him. He then gave his lower garment to the women who washed her and said: Wrap her in it, and make it the garment closest to her body. Then her hair was braided into three plaits.

The washing of a deceased Muslim is obligatory, and it is a communal duty.

A woman is only to be washed by women, and a man only by men—except in the cases of a wife with her husband and a female slave with her master, for each of them may wash the other.

The washing should be done three times; if that is not sufficient, then five times; and if still not sufficient, more may be added as needed, according to what is beneficial and necessary. Afterward, if any impurities come out of the body, the place from which the filth exits should be sealed.

The one performing the washing should make the number of washings odd—three, five, or seven.

As-Sindi said: This Hadīth indicates that there is no fixed number of washings for the deceased; rather, what is required is cleanliness, but the odd number should be observed.

Lote leaves should be used with the water, because they cleanse and firm up the body of the deceased.

The deceased should be perfumed during the final washing, so that the scent is not washed away by water. The perfume should be camphor, because—in addition to its pleasant fragrance—it firms up the body and helps prevent it from decaying quickly.

The washing should begin with the honored parts of the body, namely, the right sides and the body parts required in ablution.

It is recommended to comb the hair of a deceased woman, braid it into three plaits, and place them behind her.

It is permissible to cooperate in washing the deceased, but none should be present except those who are needed.

Seeking blessings through the belongings of the Prophet (ﷺ), such as his clothing, is permissible—but this is something unique to him and does not extend to other scholars or righteous people, because such matters are based on religious texts. The Companions never practiced this with anyone other than him, for doing so with others would lead to Shirk (polytheism) and be a source of trial for the one whom people seek blessing through.

It is permissible to delegate a trustworthy person to carry out a task he has been entrusted with, provided he is qualified for such delegation.

As-Sā’ib ibn Yazīd (may Allah be pleased with him) was a young Companion. He preformed Hajj with his family during the lifetime of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) in the Farewell Pilgrimage. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) approved that young children perform Hajj and said that they would be rewarded for it. However, it is considered a voluntary Hajj, and they must perform the obligatory Hajj after reaching puberty. The child does in his Hajj the same rituals that the adult does, including Ihrām, not wearing form-fitting clothes, saying the Talbiyah, and so on. If the child is unable to do any of the rituals, then his guardian - such as his father or mother - should do it on his behalf.

The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) performed Hajj on the back of a camel without a Mahmal, which is a litter placed on the camel, and he did not have another camel to carry his food and baggage. Rather, he kept his stuff with him on this camel, which shows his asceticism and disdain for this world. The Hadīth does not indicate the prohibition of riding comfortable luxurious means of transportation in Hajj. However, reducing the amount of luxury and comfort in Hajj is preferred, particularly if done with the intention to imitate the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him).

Guarding the borders of Muslim lands for a day and a night protecting Muslims (from their enemies) is better than fasting for a month and standing for night prayer for a month. If a Muslim dies while in Ribāt in the cause of Allah, the reward for his good deeds will continue to be added to his account and not stopped. He will receive provision from Paradise, because he is alive in the Paradise of his Lord and will also enjoy the special privilege of being spared the questioning in the grave by the two angels, because he died while being on guard in the cause of Allah. It is worth noting that Ribāt is a part of Jihad in the cause of Allah, because it means staying at the borders to protect the Muslims from the disbelievers.

On returning from the Farewell Hajj, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to a woman from the Ansār who did not perform Hajj: What prevented you from performing Hajj with us? Her excuse was that they had two camels; one of which her husband and son performed Hajj on, leaving the other to bring them water from the well. Thereupon, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed her that ‘Umrah performed during the month of Ramadan is similar in reward to that of Hajj.

Merit of performing ‘Umrah during the month of Ramadan.

‘Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj in terms of reward, not in discharging the obligation of Hajj.

The reward of deeds increases according to the increase in the excellence of the times in which they are performed. This applies to the deeds performed in Ramadan.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to confine himself to the mosque to worship Allah for ten days in each Ramadan, particularly the middle ten nights of the month, with the hope that he would observe Laylat al-Qadr [Night of Decree] in those days. When he knew that the Night of Decree was in the last ten nights, he confined himself during those ten nights. The year in which he died, he secluded himself for twenty days to worship Allah Almighty more, and to get even closer to Him.

These were marketplaces of the polytheists, where they traded during the days of Hajj. The Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) worried that they would incur a sin if they traded in such places during the days of Hajj. So, Allah revealed this verse to show them that trading in the Hajj season does not invalidate Hajj, especially when the rites are performed as prescribed. Trading during Hajj is allowed. However, it is better to devote oneself to performing the rites of Hajj.

The deeds of any person will end by his death, and no more rewards will be put in his record, except for the one who is garrisoned in the cause of Allah, guarding the Muslim borders. Honoring such a person, Allah the Almighty makes the reward of his deeds ongoing and keeps him safe from the trial in the grave; thus, he will not be questioned by the two angels.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) points out that whoever performs Hajj without engaging in sexual relations and obscene speech, or evil acts, he will return home sinless. Sinning also includes doing the things prohibited while being in ihram. If these things are avoided, he returns from Hajj with his sins forgiven, as a baby is born free from sin.

Although sinning is always prohibited, its prohibition becomes more emphatic during Hajj with respect to its rituals.

Every human being is born free from faults and sins; so, he is not responsible for the sins of others.

The Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) used to consider Jihad in the cause of Allah and fighting the enemies among the best of deeds. Therefore, ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) if women should perform Jihad. He (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) guided them to the best Jihad they could perform, namely the Mabrūr Hajj that conforms with the Qur’an and Sunnah and that is free of sin and ostentation.

Jihad is one of the best deeds for men.

Hajj is better for women than Jihad and it is one of the best deeds for them.

Deeds vary in their merit according to the doer.

Hajj is called Jihad because it involves striving against one's self, sacrificing money, and exerting physical effort. It is, thus, a physical and financial act of worship, just like Jihad, in the cause of Allah.

Mā‘iz ibn Mālik al-Aslami (may Allah be pleased with him) went to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) while he was in the mosque and confessed to having committed adultery. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) turned away from him, hoping that he would retract his statement and repent to Allah in secret. Yet, Mā‘iz was angry with himself, and he was determined to purify his soul through the prescribed punishment. Hence, he went to face the Prophet from the other side and again confessed to having committed adultery. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) once more turned his face to the other side, and he kept doing so until Mā‘iz confessed to having committed adultery four times. Afterwards, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked him if he was suffering from any form of insanity, and he answered in the negative. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) then asked his family about the state of his mind, and they said that he was fine. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) then asked him if he was (currently or previously) married or a virgin, as the punishment of the virgin does not amount to stoning. He told him that he was married. Furthermore, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked him if he had committed complete adultery, and not merely touching or kissing, but the man admitted to having committed complete adultery. After the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had made sure of the veracity of all of those conditions which require the implementation of the legal prescribed punishment, he ordered his Companions to take the man and stone him to death. They took him to Baqī‘ al-Gharqad [a place where the funeral prayer is performed in Madīnah] and stoned him. When he experienced the severity of stoning, he asked to be released and tried to escape death. He ran away as the human soul is unable to bear this. The Companions caught up to him in a place called "Al-Harrah" and continued stoning him until he died (may Allah have mercy upon him and be pleased with him).

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was ready for Jihad and thus observed what could help him undertake it. In this respect, he complied with Allah's saying: {And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of stoods of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy} [Al-Anfāl: 60]. So, he would keep horses under conditions that would make them strong. He would also train his Companions in horse racing in order for them to master the strategies of horse mounting. He also set the distance that trained and untrained horses should cover separately so that each category would receive proper training. In this regard, he made trained horses, which were strong enough because of their feeding system, race six miles. Untrained horses were made to run only one mile. ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) was a young man then, and he participated in the horse race.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that on the Day of Judgment, when Allah Almighty gathers the first and the last for the reckoning, He will set up a sign for every traitor who failed to fulfill a covenant he made, whether with Allah or with people. This sign will expose his betrayal, and he will be called out on that day: This is the betrayal of so-and-so, the son of so-and-so, to expose the evil of his deed before the people of the Gathering.

The prohibition of treachery, and that it is one of the major sins because of this severe warning associated with it.

The betrayal that incurs a severe warning includes anyone who entrusts you with life, honor, secret, or wealth, and you betray him, breaking his trust in your reliability.

Al-Qurtubi said: This is an address from him to the Arabs who used to practice, as they used to raise a white banner for loyalty and a black banner for betrayal, to blame and condemn the traitor. The Hadīth implies that something similar will occur for the betrayer, so he will be known for his trait on the Day of Judgment and condemned by the people of the Gathering.

Ibn Hajar said: This indicates that people will be called on the Day of Judgment by their fathers, as mentioned in his statement: "This is the betrayal of so-and-so, the son of so-and-so.".

A woman had a miscarriage before the delivery was due and lost her fetus as a result of a crime committed against her. It was usual for the just leader ‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) to consult his companions and the knowledgeable among them concerning his affairs and issues. So, when this woman miscarried her incomplete, dead fetus, he was unsure about the ruling concerning its blood money. So, he consulted the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them,) on this matter. Al-Mughīrah ibn Shu‘bah informed him that he witnessed the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) rule that a male or female slave should be given as the fetus' blood money. So, ‘Umar wished to verify this ruling, which was to be a general legislation until the Day of Resurrection. So, he emphatically asked Al-Mughīrah to bring someone who would testify to the truthfulness of his statement and its accurate conveyance. Muhammad ibn Maslamah al-Ansāri testified to the truthfulness of what Al-Mughīrah had said - (may Allah be pleased with all of them).

Sa‘d's mother had died, before fulfilling a vow that was due upon her. Her son Sa‘d asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) whether he could fulfill it on her behalf, and the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessing be upon him) allowed him to do so.

This Hadīth highlights the Islamic ruling on a person who spies over the Muslims while he is one of the combatant disbelievers. Salamah ibn Al-Akwa‘ (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "A spy from among the polytheists came to the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him)." The Arabic version of the Hadīth uses the word "‘ayn" (eye) in reference to the spy because the act of spying depends upon the eye, and because a spy is mainly concerned with and focused on watching, as if his whole body has become an eye. "The spy stayed with the Prophet's Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) and talked with them and then went away. Thereupon, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Pursue and kill him.' So, I killed him." Here, Salamah says that he pursued the spy, caught him, and killed him. "And the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave me his belongings (as an extra share)." The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave Salamah all the belongings of the man, including clothes, weapons, riding mount, and its saddle, along with all the money, gold, and silver which the killed person had.

Two women, co-wives from the Hudhayl tribe fought each other. One of them threw a little stone that does not normally cause death at the other, but it killed her along with the fetus that she had in her womb. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) judged that the blood money of the fetus is a male or female slave, whether the fetus was male or female, to be paid by the killer. Moreover, he judged that blood money was due for the killed woman, as the killing was semi-intentional, and that it should be paid by the killer’s male relatives on the father's side, since their relationship is based upon mutual support and equity, and because the murder was unintentional. Since the blood money was an inheritance related to the killed woman, it was given to her children and other rightful inheritors. However, her male relatives on the father’s side were entitled to nothing thereof. Upon that, Hamal ibn An-Nābighah, the killer’s father, said: "O Messenger of Allah, how could we be obliged to pay blood money for one who died before birth, and he did not eat, drink, or make any utterance so that it could be known THAT he was alive!" He made this statement in an oratory rhymed style. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) apparently disliked this man's statement, which implied his rejection of the Shar‘i rulings and involved use of rhymed phrases resembling those employed by diviners as a means whereby they devour people’s wealth unlawfully.

During the time of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), a girl whose head was crushed between two stones was found while she was still alive. They asked her about the perpetrator by mentioning some names of those who could have done that to her. When the name of a Jewish man was mentioned, she nodded her head, meaning that he was the perpetrator. He was thus accused of killing her. They captured him, and he confessed that he had killed her in order to steal silver jewelry which she was wearing. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered that he should be killed in exactly the same manner in which he killed that girl in retaliation for her. Thus, his head was crushed between two stones.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) commanded the Muslims with seven qualities and forbade them from seven. The ones he commanded them with are: First: visiting the sick. Second: following funerals, participating in the prayer over the deceased, burying them, and supplicating for them. Third: supplicating for the one who sneezes and praises Allah by saying to him: May Allah have mercy upon you. Fourth: fulfilling the oath of the one who swears and believing him, meaning that if someone takes an oath about something and you are able to make it true, you should do so, so that he does not need to expiate his oath. Fifth: supporting the oppressed person by assisting him and preventing any harm inflicted upon him by the oppressor, to the best of your ability. Sixth: responding to the invitation for a meal, such as a wedding feast, ‘Aqīqah (animal sacrificed after the birth of a new baby), or other similar occasions. Seventh: spreading the greeting of peace, offering it, and responding to it. The ones he forbade them from are: First: wearing gold rings and taking it as an adornment. Second: drinking in silver vessels. Third: sitting on Mayāthir, which are rugs made of silk placed on the saddle of a horse or a camel's saddle. Fourth: wearing a garment made of linen mixed with silk, which is called "Qassiy". Fifth: wearing silk. Sixth: wearing Istabraq, which is thick silk. Seventh: wearing Dībāj, which is the best and most precious type of silk.

Clarifying some of the rights of a Muslim over his fellow Muslim.

The basic rule is that everything in the Shariah, whether commandments or prohibitions, applies to both men and women unless it is specified as being a characteristic of men or a characteristic of women.

Other Hadīths indicate that women are prohibited from following funerals.

Other Hadīths indicate that it is permissible for women to wear gold and silk.

A man had drunk alcohol during the time of Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), who hit him with a palm stalk with about forty lashes as a legal punishment for drinking alcohol. In his reign, Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) applied the same number of lashes to a drunkard. When ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) became a Caliph and the Muslims conquered several countries and mingled with others, drinking alcohol became widespread. So, ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him), as usual, consulted the scholars of the Companions on what punishment to apply on the drunkards to deter them from committing that sin. It was ‘Umar's habit to seek counsel on matters of importance that required personal legal reasoning. As the number of drunkards increased during the reign of ‘Umar, ‘Abdur-Rahmān ibn ‘Awf (may Allah be pleased with him) advised ‘Umar to increase the punishment of drunkards to eighty lashes so that it would become similar to the next lightest prescribed punishment, which is applicable to slanderers. So, ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) increased the punishment of drunkards to eighty lashes, forty as a prescribed legal punishment, and forty as an additional discretionary punishment left to the discretion of the ruler (or judge), when necessary.

Allah, the Exalted, protected people’s lives, honor, and money through penalties that deter the aggressors. Hence, the penalty of the thief (who steals money or property from a place where it had been put away) is the amputation of the organ used to take the stolen property. This penalty atones the sin of the thief and deters others who might think of following such despicable ways to earn a living. Alternatively, such people would change their minds and try to make money in legitimate and modest ways. Ultimately, there would be more fruitful work, the world will be cultivated, and souls will be dignified. In order to protect people’s properties and lives, maintain security, and encourage people to invest their money and make profits, Allah, the Exalted, out of His Wisdom, set a certain limit for the value of the stolen money or property, which is a quarter of a gold dinar. This is equal to one gram and one sixteenth of a gram, because the dinar weighs 4.25 grams.

When a man and a woman from among the Jews committed adultery during the Prophet's time, the Jews came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) seeking his judgment in the hope that they would get something lighter than the punishment of adultery in the Torah, which is stoning. So, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked them about Allah's judgment in the Torah, only to expose them, not to act upon it. They lied to him, saying that the judgment was to expose the adulterers. On hearing that, ‘Abdullāh ibn Salām (may Allah be pleased with him) said that they were lying. When they checked the Torah, they found the ruling of adultery, which is stoning the married adulterer. Hence, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) commanded the punishment to be inflicted on the adulterers. Our Islamic law is dominant over any other law and abrogates it. In this Hadīth, however, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked them about the ruling of the Torah on stoning the adulterer in order to establish the argument against them through their own book, which they claimed that it did not include the ruling of stoning the married adulterer. Furthermore, he aimed thereby to show them that all the books of Allah are in agreement on that eternal ruling which involves deterrence to the sinners.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) saw a woman killed in one of the battles, and he denounced killing women and young boys who had not reached puberty.

Those who do not fight, like women and boys and the elderly and monks, should not be killed. An exception is when they advocate and help the fighting against Muslims, in which case they can be killed.

It is prohibited to kill women and boys, for those who do not fight Muslims. The purpose of Jihad in the cause of Allah is to subdue fighters only, so that the Da‘wah of the truth can reach all people.

The Hadīth demonstrates the Prophet's mercy even during battles and wars.

A man attacked another man and bit his hand. The one who was bitten pulled his hand by force from the other man's mouth, causing his two incisors to fall out. They submitted their case to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). The one who bit the man's hand was claiming blood money for his two teeth that fell out, whereas the other man defended himself saying that he only wanted to save his hand from the other man's teeth. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) refuted the claim of the former and expressed his discontent at what he had done, likening that to the attitude of fierce animals. He said: "One of you bites his brother like a male camel does! There is no blood money for you." Because the one who starts is the aggressor.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) was asked about mead, an alcoholic drink made of honey, and his answer was complete and comprehensive, to the effect that the difference of names does not matter as long as the meaning and essence is the same. Every drink that causes intoxication is forbidden wine, regardless of its kind or name. This Hadīth constitutes one of the concise and profound statements made by the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) as he demonstrated the rulings laid down by his Lord. The period of his prophet-hood contained such knowledge that would render all humanity blissful in the worldly life and in the Hereafter.

The Companion ‘Abdullāh ibn Abu Awfa (may Allah be pleased with him) informs in this Hadīth that when the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessing be upon him) met the enemy one day, he waited and did not begin the fighting except after the sun had declined, after which he stood up among them to deliver a speech, something which is usually done after prayer. He prohibited them from wishing to meet the enemy, given the self-conceit involved in this desire, and instructed them to ask Allah, the Almighty, for safety. Thereafter, he said: “And if you meet them, have patience.” In other words, if Allah wills this to happen and you are tested with meeting the enemy, show patience and do not panic; and know that you will get one of two good things: either Allah will help you against your enemy and make you victorious over them, and thus you will win both the victory in the worldly life and the reward in the Hereafter; or you will be defeated after you have tried your best in Jihad, and you will thus have the reward in the Hereafter. “And know that Paradise lies under the shadows of swords”, meaning: Jihad leads to Paradise. Then, the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) invoked his Lord by His Shariah and perfect power to grant the Muslims victory over their enemies. And success can only be attained through Allah, the Almighty.

‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him), standing on the Prophet's pulpit in his mosque, delivered a sermon in which he stated that wine is everything that intoxicates, not just wine that is made of grapes, rather, all intoxicating beverages made of dates, honey or wheat; are all considered wine. ‘Umar also mentioned in his sermon three problematic issues which he wished the Prophet had left a decisive ruling regarding them before his death. They are: the grandfather's share of inheritance, division of the estate of one who leaves neither ascendants nor descendants, and some questions related to usury. Praise be to Allah, the rulings on these three issues are known. This Hadīth does not mean that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did not mention these issues at all, for he had indeed delivered the message and fulfilled the trust and conveyed from Allah matters that are less known and less significant than these three. However, ‘Umar only wished that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had left an explicit statement regarding them that would not be subject to Ijtihād (independent reasoning).

A woman from Banu Makhzūm used to deceitfully borrow things from people and then deny taking anything. She once borrowed jewelry and denied having taken it. Yet, it was found in her possession. News of this reached the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) who resolved to inflict the prescribed punishment on her, by cutting off her hand. She was a noble woman from an honorable family in the Quraysh. Therefore, the Quraysh were concerned about her and the ruling to be executed against her. They consulted each other over who should be chosen as an intercessor before the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) on her behalf, seeking to relieve her from the punishment. They found no one more qualified than Usāmah ibn Zayd, for he was close and beloved to the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him). He talked to him. The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him), became extremely angry with Usāmah and rebukingly said: “Would you intercede regarding one of the punishments prescribed by Allah?" Then, he stood up and addressed the people to clarify to them the gravity of such intercession that aims at suspending the punishments set by the Almighty Lord. This was also because the matter concerned many of them. The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) informed them that the past nations were ruined, in terms of their religious and worldly affairs, because they used to inflict the legal punishments upon the poor and the weak and pardon the rich and the powerful. Therefore, chaos, evil, and corruption spread and prevailed among them, and they incurred the wrath of Allah, the Almighty, and deserved His punishment. In a concluding statement, the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) swore that if his daughter Fātimah, the noblest among all women, committed such an act, he would definitely subject her to the legal punishment prescribed by Allah, the Almighty.

Abu Tha‘labah (may Allah be pleased with him) asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) if they were allowed to eat in the plates of the People of the Book, although they may be impure? "The People of the Book" refers to the Jews and the Christians, who were Abu Tha‘labah’s neighbors. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) permitted him to use these plates for eating or otherwise on two conditions: 1. Failing to find other utensils. 2. Washing them. He then said that they were living in a land full of game and he would hunt with his bow, his trained hound, and his untrained hound. He asked what would be lawful to eat if caught by any of them. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) told him that the game shot by his bow would be permissible to eat on condition that he must mention the name of Allah, the Exalted, when he releases the arrow from the bow. Likewise, it would be permissible to eat the game caught by the trained hound if the name of Allah was mentioned when releasing it. However, it would not be permissible to eat the game caught by the untrained hound, unless the game was found alive and slaughtered in an approved manner.

In this Hadīth, there is a guarantee from Allah for the one who leaves in His cause and for whom nothing other than Jihad is the reason for his leaving, as a sincere believer, that he has a promise from Allah for one of three things or two. If he is killed, then he will have a guarantee from Allah to admit him into Paradise, and if he remains alive, then Allah will return him home with any reward and war booty he obtained, meaning: reward without war booty or both. As for the second narration, which was attributed by the author of Al-‘Umdah to Muslim, and which is agreed upon, it states that the virtue of Jihad in the cause of Allah, meaning: what is like Jihad but exceeds the human ability is that, instead of going out in the way of Allah, one enters one's place of prayer and continuously prays and fasts, and this is why the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "You will not be able to do so."

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and his Companions were on a journey. It appears that they rested in that place "Marr Azh-Zhahrān", the same place where they stopped to rest in the Year of the Conquest of Makkah. While they were there, they disturbed a rabbit. The people chased it to seize it, but they got tired and Anas continued till he caught it. At the time, Anas ibn Mālik was at the peak of his youth, so he seized it and took it to his stepfather, Abu Talhah (may Allah be pleased with him), who slaughtered it and sent its two thighs and hip as a gift to the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), and he accepted it and perhaps ate from it.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) heard clamor at his door, due to people being engaged in dispute and quarrel. He went out to judge between them, saying: I am only a human like you. I do not know the unseen, nor am I informed about hidden matters so that I would recognize the truthful from the liar among you. People come to me to judge between them. My judgment, however, is based on each party's argument, evidence and oaths that I hear. Perhaps some are more eloquent than others and can express themselves better, so I believe them to be truthful and on the right side. Thus, I judge in their favor, although the truth, in reality, is on the other party's side. So, you should know that I give my judgment according to what is apparent and not what is hidden, which does not make the unlawful lawful. Consequently, whoever receives something based upon my judgment that is the right of his brother, while he knows that he is not taking it rightfully, then I am giving him nothing but a piece of fire. So, let him carry it, if he wishes, or leave it. The punishment for this returns upon him, and Allah is lying in wait for those who do injustice to others.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade making a vow, which means that a person obliges himself to do something not ordained upon him by the Shariah. He said: A vow does not advance anything or postpone it. Rather. it is only a means whereby something can be extracted from the miser who only does what is obligatory for him; and a vow does not bring about something that had not been predestined for him.

It is not prescribed in the Shariah to make a vow, but if a person makes one, he is obligated to fulfill it, unless it involves a sin.

The cause for the forbiddance is that "it does not bring good", as it cannot ward off anything decreed by Allah, and lest a vow maker may think that the fulfillment of his need was the result of the vow. Allah Almighty is Free of need for that.

Al-Qurtubi said: This forbiddance lies where one may say, for example: If Allah cures my sick person, I shall give such and such in charity. The reason behind dislike is that when he made the mentioned act of piety dependent upon the mentioned purpose, it appeared that he did not have the intention to draw close to Allah Almighty for what He did, but he took the path of compensation in this regard. This is made clear by the fact that if He did not cure his sick person, he would not give the charity he made conditional upon this cure. Such is the attitude of a miser, who does not give anything of his money without immediate compensation that is mostly higher than the given amount.

Abu Mūsa al-Ash‘ari (may Allah be pleased with him) informs that he went to the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) along with a group of people from his tribe. They aimed to ask the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to give them camels to ride so that they could take part in Jihad. He (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) swore that he would not provide them with mounts and that he did not have any to give them. They went back and stayed for a period of time. Then, three camels were brought to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), who sent them to them. They said to one another: Allah will not bless these camels for us, for the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) swore that he would not provide us with mounts. So, they went and asked him about this issue. Thereupon, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Allah Almighty is the One Who has provided you with mounts, for He has granted help and sustenance. I am only a means through which this has come to pass. Then, he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: By Allah, Allah Willing, I do not take an oath to do or abandon something and then see that another choice is better and preferable except that I choose to do what is better, aleave the thing upon which I swore, and make expiation for my oath.

It is permissible to swear without being asked to, in order to affirm some information, even if it relates to the future.

It is permissible to make an exception by the phrase "Allah Willing" after taking an oath. If the exception is intended and associated with the oath, no expiation is due if the oath is broken.

A Muslim is encouraged to violate his oath if he sees a better choice and make an expiation for his oath.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) mentioned that the first cases to be settled on the Day of Judgment, regarding the injustices committed among people, would be the cases of blood like homicide and the infliction of wounds.

The significance of the cases of blood, for what is most important always comes first.

The gravity of sins depends on the amount of harm they cause, and killing an innocent soul is one of the gravest kinds of harm and nothing is graver than this except disbelief in Allah Almighty and associating partners with Him.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that the hand of a thief should be cut off for stealing a quarter of a dinar of gold, or any amount greater than that, which is equivalent to the value of 1.06 grams of gold.

Theft is of the major sins.

Allah Almighty has determined the thief's punishment, which is cutting off his hand, as He says: {As for the thief, male or female, amputate their hands.} [Surat al-Mā’idah: 38] The Sunnah has clarified the conditions of such amputation.

The word "hand" in the Hadīth refers to cutting off the palm from the joint between it and the forearm.

One of the rationales behind cutting off a thief's hand is to protect people's property and deter other transgressors.

A dinar is a Mithqāl (unit of weight) of gold, currently equivalent to 4.25 grams of 24-karat gold; thus, a quarter of a dinar is equal to a little over a gram.

Hind bint ‘Utbah (may Allah be pleased with her) sought the Prophet's advice regarding her husband, Abu Sufyān (may Allah be pleased with him), who was miserly and very protective of his wealth. He did not provide for her what was enough for herself and her children, except that she secretly took from his money without his knowledge. She asked if there was any sin upon her for doing so. He (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Take from his wealth for yourself and your children the amount that is commonly known to be sufficient, even without his knowledge.

It is obligatory to provide for one's wife and children.

Ibn Hajar said: The meaning of his statement: "Take from his money what is sufficient for you in a reasonable manner," is that he referred her to the customary practice in matters where there is no legal specification.

Ibn Hajar said: This Hadīth is used as evidence for the permissibility of mentioning something about a person that he would not like if it is done for the purpose of seeking legal opinion, complaining, or similar reasons. This is one of the situations in which backbiting is allowed.

Al-Qurtubi said: Hind did not mean to describe Abu Sufyān as being miserly in all of his states; rather, she described her situation with him, that he was stingy with her and her children. This does not necessarily imply overall miserliness, as many leaders do this with their families while favoring foreigners to win their favor.

A man from the Ansār promised that a slave that he owned would be free after his own death although the master had no other property. As the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was told of this, he considered this deal a waste of resources. So, he did not approve of this act. Meanwhile, he sold the slave for eight hundred dirhams and sent the money to the master. The priority for the poor master was to take care of himself and his family rather than emancipate his productive slave, and thus the indigent family would survive on begging. Finally, even though this tradition was applicable at some point in history and has no relevance today, something can be learned from it. Slavery is still practiced in some places like Africa, just as it was practiced since the time of Adam until after the coming of Islam. However, the attitude of Islam toward slavery is to eliminate it.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that staying in the place between the Muslims and the disbelievers to guard the Muslims from them for one day, sincerely for the sake of Allah, is better than the world and everything in it. The area occupied by a whip that is used for fighting in the cause of Allah, in Paradise is better than the world and everything in it. And the reward and recompense of walking the amount of time from the beginning of the day until just before midday, or in the evening from midday until night, in the cause of Allah once, is better than the world and everything in it.

The merit of observing Ribāt in the cause of Allah is that it involves risk to one's life and leads to elevating the word of Allah and supporting His religion. Therefore, the reward of one day is better than the world and everything in it.

The insignificance of this world compared to the Hereafter; because the place that a whip occupies in Paradise is better than the world and everything in it.

The merit of Jihad in the cause of Allah and the immense reward for it, because the reward of a single evening or morning walk in His cause is better than the world and everything in it.

His statement: "in the cause of Allah," indicates the importance of sincerity and that the reward is contingent upon it.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was asked about the corporal punishment prescribed by Shariah for the crime of fornication committed by the unmarried slave girl. So, he replied that she should be flogged, and she deserves to be flogged half the number of times that the free woman receives when committing fornication, which is fifty whips, as Allah, the Almighty, says: {When they are married, if they should commit adultery, they receive half the punishment of free women} [An-Nisā’: 25]. If she fornicates a second time, she should be flogged again fifty times to be deterred from committing this sin again. If she fornicates for the third time and is not deterred by that punishment and does not repent to Allah, the Almighty, and it is feared that she would do it again, then she should be flogged and sold, even at the least price, which is a cheap rope only. This is because there is no good in keeping her and there is no hope in her becoming upright, and her being far away is better than her being close so as not to be a cause of evil in the house where she resides.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was asked about the fighters' different motives, like the one who fights out of valor, chauvinism, or to impress people or for any other purpose. Which of these is in the cause of Allah? The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stated that the fighter in the cause of Allah is the one who fights to make the word of Allah supreme.

Intention and sincerity toward Allah are the criteria for the validity or invalidity of deeds.

If the intention behind Jihad is to make the word of Allah supreme and it is coupled with another valid intention, like taking war spoils, this does not affect one's original intention.

Repelling enemies from homelands and sanctities is a form of fighting for the cause of Allah.

The merit reported regarding the Mujāhids (fighters in the cause of Allah) is peculiar to whoever fights to make the word of Allah supreme.

A religion of ease, Islam gives concession in certain cases of need, i.e. allowing what is unlawful for a valid reason. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) allowed Az-Zubayr and ‘Abdur-Rahmān to wear a silk shirt since it wards off lice by what Allah has naturally created in it; likewise, it is a cure for itching. This concession is for these cases and the like.

Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) slaughtered, with his hand on the day of Eid al-Ad'ha, two male sheep with white horns mixed with black, and said: Bismillāh (in the name of Allah) and Allāhu Akbar; and he placed his foot on their necks.

’Ud'hiyah (animal sacrifice) is prescribed in the Shariah, something Muslims unanimously agree upon.

It is preferable that ’Ud'hiyah be of the same type with which the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) offered ’Ud'hiyah, given its good appearance and more tasty fat and meat.

An-Nawawi said: It is recommended that a person slaughter his ’Ud'hiyah by himself and not delegate someone else to slaughter it unless there is an excuse for that, in which case it is recommended that he witness its slaughter. However, it is indisputably permissible for him to delegate a Muslim to do so.

Ibn Hajar said: It indicates that it is recommended to say Takbīr along with mention of Allah's name while slaughtering, and it is recommended to place one’s foot on the right side of the neck of the sacrificial animal. They agreed that it should be laid down on its left side, so that he places his foot on the right side to make it easier for the slaughterer to take the knife with his right hand and hold its head with his left hand.

It is recommended to sacrifice a horned animal, though it is permissible to sacrifice an unhorned one.

These two Hadīths illustrate the virtue of performing Jihad in the cause of Allah, even for a short length of time as the morning or evening. So, how about Jihad that lasts for long periods of time, which includes perseverance and struggling against the enemy? This is actually the original meaning intended by the statement: "the cause of Allah", which is fighting against the disbelievers with the hand. It must be known that seeking Islamic knowledge is a magnificent type of striving in the cause of Allah. Likewise supporting the truth, and refuting the arguments of the heretics, atheists and the western missionaries who fight against Islam and wish to eliminate it, are also from the greatest types of striving in the cause of Allah. Hence, what is meant by Jihad is to make Islam superior and support it, for suppressing such people is one of the greatest forms of Jihad. O Allah, grant the Muslims success to bring victory to their religion, and supremacy to Your Word. Indeed, You are Close and Ever-Responding.

Huzaylah ibn al-Hārith went to visit her sister Maymūnah bringing with her some gifts, including a roasted lizard. Joining this lunch were Maymūnah's nephews, including Khālid ibn al-Walīd. When the lunch was served and the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stretched his hand to eat, they told him about the type of food he was going to eat. Thereupon, he lifted his hand. So, Khālid asked whether this food was prohibited, and the Prophet replied in the negative, explaining that it was merely not found in the land of his people; that is why he did not feel like it. Then, Khālid began to chew and eat it while the Prophet was looking.

Zahdam ibn Mudarrib al-Jarmi reported that he and other people were hosted by Abu Mūsa al-Ash‘ari, who served them chicken meat. Meanwhile, a man from Banu Taymullāh, who had a red complexion and looked like foreigners, came in. Abu Mūsa invited him to join them. However, he hesitated and showed reluctance. Abu Mūsa then told him that he saw the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) eating chicken meat.

‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) was informed that a man used a trick: He wanted to benefit from alcohol without drinking it. So, he sold it. That was an exposed forbidden trick. Therefore, ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) supplicated against the man, just as the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had done with the Jews, who resorted to similar tricks. ‘Umar said: "May Allah destroy him! Does he not know that resorting to trickery is forbidden?" This is because it features acting deceitfully towards Allah and His Messenger. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "May Allah destroy the Jews," because when Allah prohibited them from consuming animal fat, they sought to benefit from it by means of a trick. They transformed its nature by melting it and then sold it and consumed its price. They claimed that they did not actually eat the fat that was forbidden to them. They think that they deceive Allah, but He is deceiving them.

Prophet Sulaymān ibn Dawūd (peace be upon him) said to his interlocutor that he would have intercourse with seventy wives of his. It was permissible to combine such a number of wives in Sulaymān's time, or it was something specific to him. His intention was that each woman would give birth to a boy would who fight in the cause of Allah. His interlocutor told him to say: "Allah willing!" But he forgot to do so. He had intercourse with his wives, but none of them gave birth, except for one woman who gave birth to a stillborn. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that if Sulaymān had said "Allah willing", he would have fulfilled his oath and realized his wish.

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) tells that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) divided the spoils, allotting two shares to the horse and one share to the soldier. That is because a horse ensures more benefit and enables one to launch severe attacks against the enemy better than a man fighting without a horse. This was alluded to in the Noble Qur'an, where Allah, Glorified and Exalted, says: {launching raids at dawn, stirring up thereby [clouds of] dust, and penetrating into the heart of enemy lines} [Al-‘Ādiyāt: 3-5]. The verses refer implicitly to horses and allude to their usefulness in war. Indeed, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "There will be good in the forelocks of horses until the Day of Judgment." [Al-Bukhāri and Muslim]

Ka‘b ibn Mālik al-Ansāri (may Allah be pleased with him) was one of three Companions who did not join the battle of Tabūk without a valid excuse but without being guilty of hypocrisy. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) came back, he refrained from talking to them and told his Companions to do the same. They remained in that state of abandonment until Allah, the Exalted, revealed that He forgave their fault. The Prophet and the Companions were pleased with this. Ka‘b was so happy with Allah's pleasure and acceptance of his repentance that he wanted to give his entire fortune in charity for the sake of Allah, the Almighty. However, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) instructed him to keep some of his wealth. When Allah, the Almighty, knew about his truthful intention and sincere repentance, He forgave his sins even though he did not actually go through with it. Indeed, Allah does not burden a person beyond his scope. Therefore, Ka‘b gave part of his fortune in charity out of joy with Allah's pleasure and to gain Allah's reward in the Hereafter, and he kept part of it in order to be able to take care of his and his family's expenses. Verily, Allah is Ever-Merciful to His servants.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) warned against swearing an oath by Allah while knowing that one is lying in his oath in order to unjustly acquire someone else's property. Such a person will meet Allah while He is angry with him. Al-Ash‘ath ibn Qays (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said this when there was a dispute between him and a Jewish man over the ownership of a piece of land. They both brought their case to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), who then said to Al-Ash‘ath: You must provide evidence to support your claim. If you are unable to do so, then you only have the oath of your opponent, the one being accused. Al-Ash‘ath said: O Messenger of Allah, then the Jewish man will take an oath without hesitation and take my money. So Allah Almighty revealed confirmation of this in the Qur’an, saying: {Those who trade} and exchange {the covenant of Allah} and His commandment for the believers to fulfill the trust and {their oaths} taken in His name while lying {for a small price} of the worldly gains {they will have no share in the Hereafter} and no portion, and {Allah will neither speak to them} with words that would bring them joy and benefit; rather, He will be angry with them {nor look at them on the Day of Resurrection} with a look of mercy and compassion {nor will He purify them} with beautiful praise, nor will He purify them with forgiveness for their sins and impurities {and for them there will be a painful punishment} and agonizing due to what they have committed.

The prohibition of taking people's wealth wrongfully and deeming that lawful.

The strict prohibition of Muslims' rights, whether in small or large matters.

The proof is on the claimant, and the oath is on the defendant if he denies it.

Two witnesses establish the right. If the claimant does not have evidence, the defendant must take an oath.

The prohibition of the (Ghamūs) oath, which is the false oath taken to seize the right of another. It is one of the major sins that exposes its perpetrator to the wrath of Allah Almighty and His punishment.

The admonition of the ruler to the litigants, especially when an oath is about to be taken.

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to grant some of those whom he sent in a detachment a special share of the war booty, apart from other members of the army, as an encouragement and motivation for Jihad.

When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) emigrated to Madīnah, he found groups of Jews around it. So, he made a treaty with them and called for a truce, so they would continue to follow their religion and not wage war against him or assist his enemies against him. A man from the Companions, ‘Amr ibn Umayyah Ad-Damri (may Allah be pleased with him), killed two men from Banu ‘Āmir, thinking that they were enemies of the Muslims. So, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) assumed the burden of paying the blood money for the two men. He set off for the village of Banu An-Nadīr seeking their assistance to settle the blood money. While he was sitting in one of their markets waiting for their assistance, they broke their treaty and decided to kill him. Revelation of their betrayal came to him from the heavens, so he left the village, pretending that he needed to relieve himself, and set off towards Madīnah. When he was late in coming back, his Companions set out in his footsteps and he informed them of the betrayal of the Jews (may Allah disgrace them). He besieged them in their village for six days, until they reached an agreement that they would go to the Levant, Hīrah, and Khaybar. So, their property was an easy booty, gained without the Muslims facing any hardship, as they did not have to fight with horses or camels. Their property was for Allah and His Messenger. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) put aside the expenses of his family for one year and spent the rest on the general welfare of the Muslims. That was the spendig priority at that time: the preparation of horses and weapons for fighting in the cause of Allah. Every period of time has its own priority of spending, considering the public interest.

Rāfi‘ ibn Khadīj (may Allah be pleased with him) informed that they were with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) at Dhul-Hulayfah when the people were struck by hunger. They had captured camels and sheep as spoils of war from the polytheists. Acting hastily before the booty was divided, they slaughtered some of the animals and set up the pots without seeking permission from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), who was walking at the rear of the group, learned about this and ordered that the pots be overturned, spilling out the stock therein. Then he divided the spoils among them, deeming ten sheep equal to one camel. During this, a camel escaped, and they were unable to catch it. With only a few horses available, one of the men shot it with an arrow, and Allah caused it to stop for them. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Indeed, these domestic animals have instincts like those of wild beasts. Whatever of them overcomes you and you are unable to catch them, deal with it in this manner. Rāfi‘ said: We hope to encounter the enemy tomorrow and fear that using our weapons for slaughtering might dull their edges, while we are in urgent need of slaughtering, yet we have no knives. Can we slaughter using hollow reeds? The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Whatever causes the blood to flow abundantly, and Allah's name is mentioned over it, then eat it—except for teeth and claws. I will tell you about this: as for teeth, they are bones, and as for claws, they are used by the polytheists of Abyssinia.

Manifesting a glimpse of the Prophet’s humility through his walking at the rear of the army, his care for his Companions, his checking on their well-being, and his acceptance of their advice, may Allah be pleased with them.

The leader's disciplining his subjects and soldiers, as the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) disciplined them for their haste and actions before seeking his permission. Their consequence was deprivation of what they had wanted.

The Companions' quick response to the commands of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).

The prohibition of taking from the spoils of war until they are distributed.

Justice, especially in the context of Jihad against the enemies and the disbelievers, for it is one of the causes of victory and triumph over the enemies.

An-Nawawi said: If a domestic animal such as a camel, cow, horse, or sheep becomes wild, or if it strays away, it is treated like a game, and it becomes lawful by shooting.

The slaughter of an animal is required to make it lawful to eat. Conditions to be fulfilled in the animal: 1. It must be permissible to eat. 2. It must be within one's ability to capture; an animal that cannot be captured is treated like a game. 3. It must be a land animal; however, for sea animals, slaughter is not required.

Conditions for the validity of slaughter: 1. The slaughterer must be qualified, meaning he should be rational, discerning, Muslim, or from the People of the Book. 2. The name of Allah must be mentioned at the beginning of the slaughter. 3. The slaughtering tool must be suitable, i.e., it must be sharp and made of any material except for teeth and nails. 4. The slaughter should be carried out by cutting the windpipe, the pharynx, and the jugular veins of the animal.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade flogging anyone more than ten lashes except in case of committing sins. This does not refer to punishments where a specific number of lashes, strikes, or a penalty have been prescribed by the Legislator. The meaning here is that disciplinary beating, such as flogging a wife or child, should not exceed ten lashes.

The limits set by Allah Almighty, which He has commanded or prohibited, have deterrent punishments, which are either decreed by the Legislator or left to the discretion of the ruler based on what he deems beneficial.

Disciplinary action should be light, just enough to guide and intimidate, and should not exceed ten lashes if needed. It is preferable; however, to discipline them without beating, relying instead on direction, teaching, guidance, and encouragement, as this approach is more likely to be accepted and fosters gentleness in teaching. Circumstances vary greatly in this regard, so one should choose what is most suitable.

Allah, the Wise Lawgiver, has forbidden the judge from passing judgment between people when he is angry, for anger affects one's personal balance and probably causes him to pass unjust or wrong judgment. This would be injustice to the litigant against whom the ruling is passed and a sin and a source of regret for the judge.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) says that if someone looks at another from behind a door, from above a wall or something, without his permission, and then one gouges out his eye with a pebble or a skewer, this physical damage will not incur a sin or retribution on its doer. This is because the peeper is the aggressor and guilty for violating the other person's privacy.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) speaks of the merit of Jihad in Allah's cause and of the good reward that one receives by taking part in it. If one is wounded in Allah's cause, then gets killed or recovers, he will come on the Day of Judgment with a sign of his Jihad and sacrifice. His wound will be fresh; it will have the color of blood and the scent of musk.

If a person has a share, albeit small, to the ownership of a slave, male or female, and he manumits part of it, the slave will be manumitted as much as this part. If the manumitter is well-to-do enough to afford to pay the share of his partner, he ought to manumit the slave wholly, assessing his partner's market value and giving it to him. If he is not that rich, however, he can manumit the slave partially, as much as his share in his ownership, with the rest remaining in bondage.

If one of the joint owners of a slave decides to emancipate his share of that slave, he should pay to completely emancipate him, if he can afford that, by paying to his partners the value of their shares of that slave in order for him to be free. However, if he cannot do so, whether because he does not have money, or he has money but it is not enough, or this would harm him, then, in such case, the slave should be given two options to choose from: 1. to remain partly slave and partly free. 2. to work in order to pay for his freedom after a fair price is set for him. This procedure is known as Istis‘ā’.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) warned against keeping dogs except for the purposes of hunting or guarding livestock and crops. Whoever keeps a dog for other reasons will have two Qirāts, which is a specific measure known to Allah Almighty, deducted from the reward of his deeds each day.

It is not permissible for a Muslim to keep a dog except in the cases that have been excluded.

Keeping dogs is prohibited due to the numerous harm and evil consequences associated with it. It is authentically reported from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) that angels do not enter a house that contains a dog. Additionally, dogs carry an intense impurity that can only be removed by repeated washing with water and dust.

Thābit ibn Ad-Dahhāk al-Ansāri (may Allah be pleased with him) is one of those who gave an oath of allegiance to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) under the tree in Bay‘at Ar-Ridwān on the day of Hudaybiyah. He reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that if someone intentionally swears by a religion other than Islam, he would be as he swore. In other words, he would be a Jew, Christian, Zoroastrian, or a disbeliever, or he would be disassociated from Allah and His Messenger if did such and such. If he falsely makes such an oath intentionally, he would belong to the non-Islamic religion that he had ascribed himself to in the oath. And if someone kills himself with a sword, knife, bullet, or any lethal object, he will be punished with that object on the Day of Judgment. Additionally, if a person makes a vow on something that he doesn't possess, like vowing to free a slave that he does not own or to give charity from someone else's money, such a vow is null and void, because the one making the vow doesn't own what he is making the vow on. Also, cursing a believer is like killing him, because both acts violate what Allah, the Almighty, has prohibited and are considered as sins and warrant a punishment. Furthermore, if someone exaggerates and proudly claims to have what he does not possess, such as wealth, knowledge, family background, position, etc., Allah will increase him in nothing but humiliation and degradation. This is because such a person wants to elevate himself through something he doesn't have. So, he will be punished with the opposite of his objective.

This Hadīth issues a terrible threat to the one who takes someone else's wealth unlawfully by a false oath. Allah shall be angry with such a person when he meets Him. Divine wrath sends one to his doom. To confirm this threat, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) recited a related verse from the Qur’an.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) warns against carrying weapons against Muslims to intimidate or rob them. Whoever does so unjustly has committed a serious crime and a major sin and deserves this stern warning.

The Hadīth gives a stern warning against Muslims fighting one another.

One of the most mischievous acts on earth is to brandish weapons against Muslims and cause corruption by killing.

The warning in question does not apply to just fighting, such as fighting the oppressors, corruptors, and the like.

It is prohibited to scare Muslims with weapons and the like, even if done jokingly.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said on the Day of Hunayn: "Whoever kills someone in battle, having a proof for that, his belongings are his." The proof refers to the clothing, weapons, or the riding animal of the killed person. During that battle, Abu Qatādah killed someone and said to the people around him: "I killed someone." And he implored, by Allah, the ones who witnessed it to testify about it. He said this three times.

Allah, Glorified and Exalted, blessed the Prophet's Companions with seven battles wherein He provided them with locusts because they did not have sustenance, just like He supplied them in another battle with the sperm whale that was cast out by the sea, and they ate from it.

Asmā’ bint Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with her) reports that during the Prophet's lifetime, they slaughtered a horse and ate it. This proves the lawfulness of eating horse meat. Therefore, no one should mistakenly believe that horse meat is unlawful to eat just because horses are mentioned along with donkeys and mules in the verse where Allah, the Exalted, says: {And the horses, mules, and donkeys are for you to ride, and as adornment. And He creates what you do not know.} [An-Nahl: 8]

It is human nature to hasten sometimes and oblige oneself to do what is difficult. Islam has come with moderation and facilitation in the acts of worship so that one can continue performing them. In this Hadīth, ‘Uqbah ibn ‘Āmir's sister asked him to ask the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) about her vow to walk to the Sacred Mosque barefoot. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) knew that she had the ability to walk some of the way. So, he ordered her to walk as long as she could and to ride when she could not.

Jābir ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prohibited eating the meat of domestic donkeys, and permitted eating the meat of horses and wild donkeys. Moreover, ‘Abdullāh ibn Abu Awfa (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that they were afflicted with severe hunger during the Battle of Khaybar. So, after conquering Khaybar, they slaughtered some of its domestic donkeys and cooked them. After they had cooked the meat, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered them to turn over the pots and not to eat from that meat.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade Muslims from seeking authority because whoever is granted authority based on his request will be let down and left to his desire for this world, which he prefers to the Hereafter. On the other hand, whoever is granted authority without seeking or asking for it, Allah shall grant him support to fulfill his duties. Moreover, making an oath should not prevent goodness. So, if the one who made an oath realized that goodness lies in something different from his oath, he should discard that oath through expiation and go for the better alternative.

One of the Companions went out to Qubā' Mosque in the outskirts of Madīnah, and he found that the people there had not received the news of the abrogation of the prayer direction, and were still praying toward the first Qiblah. So, he informed them that the prayer direction was changed toward the Ka‘bah, and that Qur'anic verses relating to that matter had been revealed to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), alluding to the verse where Allah, the Exalted, says: {We have certainly seen the turning of your face toward the heaven, and We will surely turn you to a Qiblah with which you will be pleased. So turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque. And wherever you [believers] are, turn your faces toward it [in prayer]. Indeed, those who have been given the Scripture well know that it is the truth from their Lord. And Allah is not unaware of what they do} [Al-Baqarah: 144]. He also informed them that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was then facing the direction of the Ka‘bah. Thanks to their quick and sound understanding, they turned from the direction of Bayt al-Maqdis in Jerusalem – their first Qiblah – to their second Qiblah, which was the honorable Ka‘bah.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) is urging us here to respond to the Muezzin on hearing him by repeating what he says word for word. So, when he says: "Allāhu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), we should say: "Allāhu Akbar" after him; and when he pronounces the two testimonies of faith, we should pronounce them after him. The only exception is when he says: "Hayy ‘ala as-salāh, hayy ‘ala al-falāh" (Come to prayer, come to success), we should say: "La hawla wala quwwata illa billāh" (There is no might or power except through Allah).

After the first Muezzin finishes the Adhan, one should repeat after the second one, even if there are multiple Muezzins, given the general indication of the Hadīth.

One should respond to the Muezzin in all situations unless he is in the bathroom or answering the call of nature.

In one of his journeys, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was performing ablution. On reaching the part of washing the feet, Al-Mughīrah ibn Shu‘bah (may Allah be pleased with him) stretched his hands to take off the Prophet's leather socks to wash his feet. However, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Leave them and do not take them off, for I had put them on while being in a state of Tahārah (ritual purity). Hence, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) wiped over his leather socks instead of washing his feet.

The permissibility of wiping over the leather socks when performing ablution from minor Hadath (ritual impurity), but when taking a ritual bath from major Hadath, the feet must be washed.

Wiping is done by passing the wet hand once over the surface of the leather sock, not its bottom.

The conditions for wiping over leather socks are: wearing them after having performed a complete ablution where the feet are washed with water, the leather socks must be pure and cover the area that must be washed in ablution, wiping over them in case of minor Hadath not in case of Janābah (impurity due to sexual discharge) or what requires a ritual bath, and wiping over them during the period prescribed by Shariah, namely one day and night for the resident and three days and nights for the traveler.

What applies to leather socks applies also to all footwear including socks and others. It is permissible to wipe over them.

Good moral character of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and his teaching method, as he forbade Al-Mughīrah from taking off his leather socks and told him the reason, that he put them on when his feet were in the state of ritual purity, so that he be reassured and know the ruling.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had two Muezzins: Bilāl ibn Rabāh and ‘Abdullāh ibn Umm Maktūm, who was blind. Bilāl (may Allah be pleased with him) used to make the Adhān for the Fajr prayer before the break of dawn, because this prayer occurs at the time of sleep and people need to get ready for it before its time. Hence, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) notified his Companions that Bilāl (may Allah be pleased with him) would call the Adhān during the night, and ordered them to eat and drink until the break of dawn, when the second Muezzin, ‘Abdullāh ibn Umm Maktūm (may Allah be pleased with him), would call the second Adhān. This was addressed to whoever intended to fast. So, at that point a person should stop eating and drinking, since the time for prayer would start. This is specific to the Fajr prayer, as it is not permissible in any other prayer to call the Adhān before its due time starts. There is a difference in scholarly opinion concerning the first Adhān for the Fajr prayer: Is it sufficient, or is the second Adhān, which indicates the beginning of the prayer time, necessary? The majority of scholars are of the opinion that the first Adhān is permissible, but not sufficient.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) went to Makkah in the sixth Hijri year, along with many of his Companions, to perform ‘Umrah. The Quraysh disbelievers went out to fight him and bar him from the House of Allah, but, a treaty was concluded between the two sides. As stipulated by the treaty, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and his Companions had to return home that year and come back to Makkah the following year to perform ‘Umrah and stay there for three days. They came in the seventh year to perform ‘Umrah. Thereupon, the polytheists, gloating and giving vent to their feelings of revenge, said to one another: There will come to you people who are weakened and enfeebled by the fever of Madīnah. When this reached the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), he, seeking to rebut their statement and vex them, ordered his Companions to quicken their pace as they performed the Tawāf rounds, except between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone Corner, where they could walk normally. He did so out of mercy and pity for them and because the disbelievers, who climbed Mount Qu‘ayqi‘ān to see the Muslims as they performed Tawāf, would not be able see them when they were between the two Corners. Vexed, the disbelievers said: "Indeed, they are but like gazelles." Hence, this jogging became a Sunnah to be observed in Tawāf upon arrival in Makkah, in memory of the situation of our righteous predecessors. This is also to follow their footsteps in their praiseworthy stances, firm perseverance, and the glorious acts they did to support this religion and make the word of Allah superior. May Allah guide us all to follow their example and footsteps!

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) performed the Farewell Hajj and stayed overnight at a place named Dhu Tuwa on the fourth night of Dhu al-Hijjah. In the morning, he entered Makkah from its upper mountain pass. It was easier for him to enter from there because he came from Madīnah. When he completed the rituals of Hajj, he exited Makkah and headed towards Madīnah from the lower mountain pass. This road passes though Jarwal. It is possible that he did this intentionally to change his route, so that he may gain more reward for having done more good acts on different paths. This is similar to what he did on his way to ‘Arafah and his return therefrom, and for the Eid prayer, as well as praying the voluntary prayers in a place other than the one where he prayed his obligatory prayers. The purpose of this alteration is for different spots of the earth to testify to his good deeds on the Day when it will relate its news. It is possible that he entered from one place and left from another because both of them were just convenient for whomever would come from Madīnah or leave for it. Allah knows best.

Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) mentions that one day he went to the house of his sister Hafsah, the Prophet's wife. He went up on the roof of her house and saw the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) answering the call of nature while facing the direction of the Levant and his back was toward the Qiblah. Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with them) said this in response to those who said that one should not face the direction of Jerusalem, while answering the call of nature, and that is why the author mentioned the other version which adds: "...facing Bait al-Maqdis." So, if someone faces the Qiblah while praying within a building, there is nothing wrong with that.

‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb, Commander of the Believers, (may Allah be pleased with him) came to the Black Stone in the corner of the Ka‘bah and kissed it. He, then, said: Verily, I know that you are a stone that can neither harm nor benefit. Had I not seen the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) kissing you, I would not have kissed you.

The permissibility of kissing the Black Stone for those performing Tawāf (circumambulation) when they pass by it, if it can be done easily.

The purpose of kissing the Black Stone is to follow the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).

An-Nawawi said: It means that it has no power to bring benefit or harm; it is a created stone like other creations that neither harm nor benefit. ‘Umar proclaimed this during the season so that people from various lands would hear it and preserve it from him.

Acts of worship are Tawqīfi (determined by divine texts), therefore, nothing thereof is legitimate except what has been prescribed by Allah and His Messenger.

If an act of worship is authentically established, it should be practiced even if its wisdom is not known, for one of the intended purposes is people's compliance and obedience in performing it.

The prohibition of kissing stones or other objects as an act of worship unless prescribed in the Shariah.

As the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) circumambulated the Ka‘bah in his Farewell pilgrimage, people jostled to watch him doing the rites or to only see his noble face. Merciful and just, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) rode a camel so that everyone could see him. He had a hooked stick whereby he touched the Corner and then kissed the stick, as we know from the narration of Muslim.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did not use to touch any of the four corners of the Ka‘bah except the Black Stone Corner and the Yamani Corner. The House has four corners. The eastern corner has two merits: 1. It was built on the foundations of Ibrahīm. 2. It accommodates the Black Stone. The Yamani Corner has one merit: It was built on the foundations of Ibrahīm. The Shami and Iraqi Corners do not have any of these merits. The Black Stone was taken out of the Ka‘bah from their side. It is recommended to touch and kiss the Black Stone, and touch the Yamani corner without kissing it. However, it is not permissible to touch or kiss the other two corners. The laws of Islam are predicated on compliance not innovation, and there is a divine wisdom behind everything in the Shariah of Allah.

Fātimah bint Hubaysh asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) saying: I have a ceaseless flow of vaginal bleeding that continues even outside the menstrual period. Does this have the same ruling of menstruation so I should abstain from prayer? The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) replied saying: It is Istihādah (vaginal bleeding outside the menstrual period), which is a kind of illness caused by the rupture of a vein in the uterus and it is not menstrual blood. Therefore, when the time you used to experience your normal menses, before getting sick with Istihādah, do not pray, fast, or perform any act of worship that the menstruating woman must not perform during her menses. After this period is over, you attain purity from menstruation. So, wash the place from where the blood flows and wash your whole body to remove the state of Hadath (ritual impurity), and then pray.

It is obligatory for a woman to take a ritual bath when her menstruation is over.

It is obligatory for a woman suffering from Istihādah to perform prayer.

Hayd (menstruation): It refers to the normal blood that is discharged by the uterus through the vagina of an adult woman during known days.

Istihādah: It refers to the flow of blood from the nearest part of the uterus, not its bottom, outside its normal time.

The difference between the blood of Hayd and that of Istihādah is that the former is black, thick, and smelly whereas the latter is red, thin, and not smelly.

Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him) reports that he and a servant of similar age would follow the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) when he went to relieve himself. They would carry a stick with a pointed end like a spearhead, which he would insert in the ground to hang a covering as a screen for his privacy or as a Sutrah (barrier) for his prayer, and would carry as well a small leather vessel filled with water. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) finished relieving himself, one of them would hand him the water vessel, and he would cleanse himself with it.

A Muslim arranges his cleaning supplies beforehand when relieving himself, to avoid having to move and get dirty afterward.

Concealing one's ‘Awrah (private parts) while relieving oneself, so that no one may see it, because looking at ‘Awrah is forbidden. Thus, he (the Prophet) would fix the stick in the ground and drape a covering garment over it as a screen.

Teaching Islamic manners to children and raising them upon these values, so they may inherit them.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) commands those who perform the prayer to straighten their rows, not being forward or backward from the row, and that straightening the rows is part of the completion and perfection of the prayer, whereas the crookedness of the row is a flaw and deficiency in the prayer.

Permissibility of paying attention to whatever leads to perfecting the prayer and keeps it far from deficiency.

Wisdom of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) in teaching as he joined the ruling with its cause to clarify the rationale behind the legislation and encourage people to comply.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified some of the Tahārah (ritual purity) rulings including the following: First: Whoever performs ablution must sniff water into the nose by inhaling and then blow it out by exhaling. Second: Whoever wants to clean his private parts from impurities with something other than water, like stones and the like, should do so with an odd number of stones; the least of which is three, and the most of which is what is necessary to fully cleanse the impurities off his body. Third: Whoever wakes up from night sleep should not put his hand in the water vessel to perform ablution until he washes it three times outside the vessel, for he does not know where his hand was during his sleep. It might have been affected by some impurity or the devil might have been meddling with it carrying to it what could either be harmful to man or what could make the water impure.

In Wudū’ (ablution), one must make Istinshāq, which is sniffing water into the nose by inhaling, and one must also make Istinthār, which is blowing water out from the nose by exhaling.

It is recommended to make Istijmār (clean the private parts from impurities using stones or so) with an odd number of stones.

It is prescribed to wash the hands three times after waking up from night sleep.

As the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was leaving ‘Arafah, he heard behind him people shouting, beating their camels; thus camels were making sounds. The scene was typical of the pre-Islamic times, because when people intended to leave ‘Arafah, they would rush so as to leave before the darkness comes. Therefore, they would beat their camels harshly. So, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) pointed his whip towards them to maintain calmness, and told them that there is no good in rushing.

Harshness and ignorance are natural habits of the Bedouins because they live in isolation from learning what Allah, the Almighty, revealed unto His Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). Once, while the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was with his Companions in the mosque, a Bedouin entered and urinated in one corner of the mosque assuming it was an open space. His action offended the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them), due to the mosque's sanctity. As a result, they rebuked him while he was urinating. Knowing the habits of the Bedouins, however, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who was sent with ease and glad tidings ordered them to stop rebuking him, otherwise he would urinate on a larger spot in the mosque, or make his clothes impure, and to avoid harm had he been interrupted during passing urine. Moreover, he would be more inclined that way to accept the advice of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) when he advises him. He ordered them to purify the place where he urinated by pouring a bucket of water over it.

Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him) returned from Syria and people received him because of his high status and wide knowledge. The narrator, who was among the people who received him, saw him pray on on a donkey towards the left side of the Qiblah. He asked him about that, and Anas told them that he had seen the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) do that; otherwise, he would not have done it.

The Hadīth of ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar )may Allah be pleased with him) highlights the recommendation of taking different routes when going to and returning from the Eid and Friday prayers, as well as other acts of worship. For example, a Muslim should leave from the right and return from the left. This is authentically reported to have been done by the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) for the two Eid prayers. Jābir (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that, on the Day of Eid, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to go to the prayer using one route and return using another. The same is indicated in this Hadīth. The scholars have held various opinions about the wisdom of going to the prayer via one route and returning via another. The most well-known of these opinions are the following: 1. The purpose of the two routes is that the routes would be able to bear witness in the person's favor on the Day of Judgment, as the earth will bear witness to whatever evil or good was done over it. So, if a Muslim goes for prayer via one route and returns via another, the two routes will bear witness on the Day of Judgment that he performed the Eid prayer. 2. The two routes are recommended to show that it is the day of the rite of Eid by having the markets filled with crowds of people everywhere. When people spread out through the paths of the city it makes this rite obvious, and the Eid prayer is one of the rites of Islam. This is also proven by the fact that people are ordered to go out in the deserts to show that it is Eid and declare the rite. 3. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to go to the prayer by one way and return by another due to the needy who were to be found in the markets. So, he might find some of them on one way and find others on the other, and would be able to give to them all. The most sound opinion is that it is done to show that it is the day of the Eid prayer by having people going to it from all the roads of the city. As for Hajj, as reported in this Hadīth, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) took different routes when entering and leaving Makkah. He entered through its Higher Pass and left through the Lower Pass. He, may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him, did the same when he went to ‘Arafah, he took one route when he headed towards it and another when he left. The scholars also held different views as to whether the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did that as an act of worship or just because it was easier for him, i.e. that it was easier for him to enter through the Higher Pass and leave through the Lower Pass. The scholars who adopted the first point of view said that it is an act of Sunnah to enter Makkah through the Higher Pass and leave it through the Lower Pass. The same applies to ‘Arafah, according to them. Other scholars maintained that the matter depends upon the convenience of the route. So, one may take the way that is more convenient, no matter whether that is the Higher or the Lower Pass. Whatever the case, if a pilgrim of Hajj or ‘Umrah can easily enter Makkah through its Higher Pass and leave through its Lower Pass, that is a good thing, because, if it is an act of worship, he has done it, but if it is not, there is no blame on him for doing it. If he could not do that easily, he should not burden himself by this. In fact, now, all the routes to Makkah have been brought together in just one and Muslims should not disobey the orders of the Muslim ruler. Praise be to Allah, there is a choice in this matter.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered Umm Habībah to take a ritual bath when she asked him about what she had to do concerning her non-menstrual vaginal bleeding. She, thus, used to do so for every prayer. She remained in this state for seven years. This non-menstrual vaginal bleeding, however, is uncommon among women. The regular blood women discharge is that of menstruation in a number of days monthly. It has signs that women can recognize.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prohibited Muslims from urinating in stagnant water, which is not running, because doing that would cause it to be polluted with impurities and microbes that the urine might be carrying. This, in turn, will harm those who use such water. In addition to that, the one who urinates in stagnant water may use it himself in taking a ritual bath. So, it is not logical to urinate in the water that he will, later on, use in purifying himself. Moreover, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prohibited the one in the state of major ritual impurity from taking a ritual bath in stagnant water, because that causes the water to be polluted with the filth and impurities of the ritual state.

Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) conveys a message regarding how women should be treated. He reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked them to accept his advice that they should treat women in a kind and good manner. This is because women are characterized by some deficiency in their reason, religion, thinking, and all of their affairs, since they were created from a rib. To clarify, Allah created Adam (peace be upon him) from dust without father and mother. When Allah, the Exalted, willed to bring humanity out of Adam, He created his wife (Eve) from his bent rib. If a man wants to benefit from his bent rib, he has to benefit from it with its bending there. If he tried to straighten it, he would break it. Likewise, if a person wants to enjoy a woman, he has to enjoy her while crookedness remains in her and accept the benefits available. However, if he tries to straighten her, she will not be straightened and he will not be able to, because if she becomes straight in her religious matters, she will not be straight in the matters related to her nature. A woman will never behave exactly as her husband wishes. Rather, there must be cases of disagreement and negligence in addition to a sort of deficiency that already exists in her. Therefore, if you try to straighten her, you will break her, and breaking her is divorcing her. In other words, if you try to straighten her in the way you like, you will not be able to, and as a result you will get fed up with her and divorce her.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) led his Companions in the Fajr prayer. When he finished the prayer, he noticed a man that had not prayed with them. Out of his remarkable gentleness and good call to Allah, the Almighty, he did not rebuke the man for having failed to attend the congregational prayer until he could know the reason behind this. So, he asked the man: “O so-and-so, what prevented you from praying with the congregation?” The man clarified his excuse, according to his reasoning. He said that he was in a state of ritual impurity and had no water; that is why he delayed the prayer until he could find water and purify himself therewith. Thereupon, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed him that Allah, the Almighty, out of His kindness, provided a replacement for water when it comes to purification; and that is clean earth. He told him to use it instead of water, which was unavailable.

When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) arrived at Mina on the day of Eid during his Farewell Pilgrimage, he threw pebbles at "Jamarat al-‘Aqabah", and then he went to his tent and slaughtered his sacrifice. Then, he called for a barber to shave his head. He told the barber to start with the right side of his head, and he started from there. Then he called Abu Talhah al-Ansāri and gave him the hair that was shaved off his right side. Then, he shaved the remainder of his head and gave the hair to Abu Talhah, and said: "Distribute it among the people!" He did it. Some people received one hair, some two, and some more than that. This was to seek blessings in his hair. Such act is permissible but exclusive to Prophet Muhammad's belongings.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarifies that this worldly life has a sweet taste and looks green and alluring. Hence, man gets deceived by this worldly life, indulges in its pleasures, and makes it his biggest concern. Allah Almighty has made us successors of one another in this worldly life to see how we behave; and whether we obey or disobey Him. Then he said: Beware of being deceived by the worldly pleasures and adornment that will cause you to abandon Allah's commands and fall into His prohibitions. Among the gravest worldly trials that one must beware of is women's temptation, which was the first temptation the children of Israel fell into.

It encourages adherence to piety without being preoccupied with worldly pleasures and adornment.

Warning against being tempted by women either through gazing, allowing them to mingle with foreign men, etc.

Women's temptation is among the gravest worldly trials.

Taking lessons from the previous nations, such as what happened to the Children of Israel could happen to others as well.

In the case of the wife, a woman's temptation might be by asking her husband what he cannot afford, thus, distracting him from seeking religious affairs and urging him to exert himself in seeking this world. As for the foreign woman, her temptation lies in alluring men and making them deviate from the truth when she goes out and mixes with them, particularly if she is not wearing Hijāb and is exposing her adornment. This might lead to falling into various degrees of adultery. So, the believer must hold onto Allah and ask Him to save him from their temptation.

The Hadīth states that anyone takes an oath to do or not to do something, and then he sees that doing something else is better and more pleasing to Allah than abiding by the oath, then he is recommended to break the oath and do what is better. If the oath is related to something that is obligatory to be done or to be abandoned, such as swearing to abandon the prayer or to drink wine; in this case, he must break his oath and do what is more pleasing to Allah. In other words, he must do what is obligatory and abandon what is forbidden.

Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "We came to the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) when we were young and of about the same age.” That was in the Year of Delegations, 9 A.H. They were young men and they stayed with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) for twenty nights. They came to him to learn the religion of Allah. Mālik said: "The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was merciful and compassionate. He realized our longing for our families. He asked us about our families whom we had left behind and we told him about them. Thereupon, he said: "Go back to your people and stay with them. Teach them (religion) and command them (to adhere to it), pray so-and-so prayer at so-and-so time, and when prayer becomes due, let one of you pronounce the Adhān and let the eldest among you lead you in prayer." Another version by Al-Bukhāri adds: “Pray as you saw me pray.” This indicates that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was famous for his mercy and compassion. He was the most merciful and the most compassionate among people towards people. When he perceived their longing for their families and asked them about their people whom they had left behind and they informed him about them, he ordered them to return home. "And let the eldest among you lead you in prayer" points out that older one should take precedence when it comes to leading prayer. And by the way, this does not contradict the Prophet’s statement: "Let the best reciter of the Book of Allah among the people lead them in prayer.” This is because these young men came to the Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) at the same time and apparently there was no significant difference between them in terms of the Qur’an’s recitation. Hence, he said: "And let the eldest among you lead you in prayer", because they were equal, or almost equal, in reciting the Qur’an. If they were the same in terms of reciting the Qur’an, knowledge of the Sunnah, and making the Hijrah, then the eldest among them should take precedence and lead the prayer. His statement "Pray as you saw me pray" confirms the fact that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) used to teach people their religion by words and deeds. For example, he taught the man who offered prayer hastily, saying: "When you get up to pray, perform ablution perfectly, stand facing the Qiblah, make Takbīr, recite some of what you memorize of the Qur’an, and then bow down." In the case of those young men, he chose to teach by deeds.

‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) clarifies that some of the voluntary prayers he memorized from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) were ten Rak‘ahs, which are called "As-Sunan ar-Rawātib" (regular Sunnah prayers). They are: two Rak‘ahs before Zhuhr and two after it, two Rak‘ahs after Maghrib at his home, two Rak‘ahs after ‘Ishā’ at his home, and two Rak‘ahs before Fajr, and these are ten Rak‘ahs in total. As for the Friday prayer, he used to offer two Rak‘ahs after it.

It is recommended to perform the mentioned Rawātib (regular Sunnah prayers) on a regular basis.

It is permissible to perform the Sunnah prayer at home.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would often use the Siwāk and command the Muslims to use it. This practice was confirmed at certain times, like getting up during the night, as he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would brush and cleanse his mouth with the Siwāk.

The Hadīth affirms that using the Siwāk is prescribed under the Shariah after sleeping at night, as sleep entails a change to the odor of the mouth and the Siwāk is a means of cleaning.

It emphasizes that using the Siwāk is prescribed under the Shariah whenever the mouth has a foul smell, based on the above meaning.

Cleanliness in general is prescribed under the Shariah and it is part of the Sunnah of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and one of the sublime etiquettes.

The Siwāk is used for the whole mouth, including the teeth, the gums, and the tongue.

The Siwāk is a stick cut from the Arak tree or other trees. It is used to clean the mouth and teeth, freshen the mouth, and remove bad odors.

An-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy upon him) said that this Hadīth is one of the general and fundamental principles of Islam on which many significant rulings are built. This principle signifies that ruling of things which one is certain about should remain effective and should not be changed because of doubts or assumptions. Even if doubts are strong, they should not affect the ruling as long as they have not reached the level of certainty or strong probability. This Hadīth is one of the many examples showing application of this principle. If a Muslim is certain about his being in a state of purity, and then he has doubts that something occurred that invalidated his purity, the ruling is that he still remains in a state of purity. Conversely, if a Muslim is certain that something happened that invalidated his purity, and later has doubts about his being in a state of purity, the ruling is that he remains in a state of impurity. The same ruling applies to the clothes and places, which are considered pure by default until their impurity is certainly proved. Another example is the number of Rak‘ahs that one performs in prayer. If a Muslim is sure that he has performed three Rak‘ahs and is doubtful about the fourth one, the basic ruling is that the fourth one is not done and he should perform it. Also, if a man is doubtful about divorcing his wife, the basic ruling is that the marriage remains effective, and so on and so forth.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) went to Makkah during the Farewell Hajj and he Hady (sacrifice). ‘Ali ibn Abi Tālib (may Allah be pleased with him) came from Yemen and also had a Hady. Since the Hady is a charity for the poor and needy, the giver has no right to freely use it or any of its part for exchange, as the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade ‘Ali from giving the butcher any of it in exchange for his work. Instead, he would provide him his wage from something other than their meat, skins, or saddle cloths.

If the Iqamāh for prayer is proclaimed, and food or drink are served, one should start with food and drink; in order to satisfy his appetite, and his mind should not be busy with the food.

‘Imrān ibn Husayn (may Allah be pleased with him) says that Hajj Tamattu‘ was laid down in the Qur'an and the Sunnah. In the Qur'an, Allah, the Almighty, says: {And whosoever performs the 'Umrah in the months of Hajj, before (performing) the Hajj, he must slaughter a Hady such as he can afford} [Sūrat al-Baqarah: 196]. As for its legislation in the Sunnah, this is represented by the Prophet's performance and approval of this act, whereas no Qur'anic verses were revealed to prohibit it, nor did the Prophet forbade it later, till he died. So, ‘Imrān wonders: How can anybody prohibit it after that! By this, he refers to ‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb, who prohibited Hajj Tamattu‘, based on his own reasoning, aimed at boosts the pilgrims' numbers throughout the year. If a pilgrim performs ‘Umrah along with Hajj, he or she will only come during the season of Hajj. So, ‘Umar's ban was not meant as prohibition or abandonment of the application of the Qur'an and Sunnah in this respect; rather, it was a temporary ban for the public interest.

‘Abdullāh ibn Zam‘ah (may Allah be pleased with him) mentions that he heard the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) deliver a sermon from above his camel. This is because it was from the Prophet's guidance not to overburden himself. He would thus not request something that was not available, nor would he reject something that was available, as long as this would not entail negligence or exaggeration in the Shariah. The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) was giving the sermon, and ‘Abdullāh ibn Zam‘ah heard him. He heard him mention the she-camel, which was the miracle of Prophet Sālih (Methusaleh) (peace be upon him). He also mentioned the one who had slain it, whose name was Qudhār, and he was the most wretched among his people. He made mention of some of his descriptions saying that he was unique (in the bad sense of the word) and extremely corrupt and that he enjoyed a high status among his people. Then, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said during his sermon: "Some of you would whip their wives as if they were slaves." This indicates harsh disciplining. The context of the Hadīth indicates the improbability of these two being done by a rational person, i.e. that he would beat his wife severely and then have sexual intercourse with her the same day or night. This is because sexual intercourse normally requires a desire for companionship, love, and affection, whereas the one who is whipped normally shuns the one who whipped him. So, the dispraise of this type of action was pointed out here. If beating is necessary, it should be a gentle beating that does not cause complete repulsion, so one should not exceed the proper limits in both beating and disciplining. Then, he warned them against laughing at the act of passing wind because it is against good manners and because it entails exposing other people. Out of criticism for such an attitude, he said: "Why should any of you laugh at another doing what he does himself?" This is because laughing is normally caused by something strange or astonishing that lead to smiling. If the smile gets stronger and is accompanied by a sound, it will be considered laughter, and if it becomes even stronger than that, it will be called a guffaw. Since passing wind normally happens to all people, then what is the reason for laughing at the one who passes wind?

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade a husband from hating his wife in such a way that would lead him to wrong her, abandon her, and turn away from her. Deficiency is part of man's nature, so, if he dislikes a bad characteristic in her, he will find another good one. He will, thus, be pleased with what he approves of and will patiently endure what he disapproves of the bad characteristics. This will help him remain patient without hating her in such a way that leads him to part with her.

Calling the believer to be fair and refer to reason whenever a dispute arises with his wife without resorting to emotions and temporary feelings.

A believer does not entirely hate a female believer in such a way that drives him to leave her; rather, he should overlook what he hates for what he loves.

Encouraging kindness and good companionship between spouses.

Faith calls to noble morals. Thus, no believing man or woman is free of good morals, as faith requires the existence of praiseworthy qualities in both of them.

Abu Jamrah asked Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with both of them) about Hajj Tamattu‘, and so he ordered him to do it. Then, he asked him about the Hady associated with it, as it was mentioned in the Qur'an: {Whoever performs ‘Umrah [during the Hajj months] followed by Hajj [offers] what can be obtained with ease of sacrificial animals} [Al-Baqarah: 196]. He replied: "You have to slaughter a camel, a cow, a sheep, or one-seventh of a camel or cow." i.e. share the Hady with others. It seems that someone had opposed Abu Jamrah regarding Tamattu‘, so he saw in his dream that someone was announcing: "May Allah accept your Hajj and accept your Hajj Tamattu‘." He went to Ibn ‘Abbās and narrated to him this beautiful vision. Since good visions are considered one part of prophet-hood, Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) was pleased with it. He considered it glad tidings that Allah guided him to what was correct. He thus said: "Allah is the Greatest. That is the Prophet's Sunnah."

Hudhayfah ibn al-Yamān (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) reports that he was with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who wanted to urinate and, thus, entered the dump of some people, i.e., a place where the garbage and the dust swept off homes are thrown. He passed urine while standing, although he would usually urinate while sitting. Hudhayfah moved away, but he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to him: Come close, and Hudhayfah moved close until he was standing behind his heels to act as a barrier for him and let no one see him in such a state. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) made ablution, and on reaching the point of washing the feet, he only wiped over both of his Khuffs - footwear made of soft leather and the like covering the heels—without taking them off.

Permissibility of wiping over leather socks.

Permissibility of passing urine while standing provided that nothing thereof reaches him.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) chose the dump, i.e., the place where garbage and rubbish are collected, because it is usually easy to urinate there without being affected by the urine.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) met Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) on one of the streets of Madīnah. Abu Hurayrah was in a state of Janābah (major ritual impurity). Out of his profound respect for the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), he disliked sitting with him and conversing while in that state, believing himself to be impure. So he discreetly went away and performed Ghusl (ritual bath), then returned and sat down. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked him where he had gone. He informed him of his condition and that he had disliked sitting with him while in a state of impurity from Janābah. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) responded with surprise, saying: "Verily, the believer is pure and never becomes impure under any circumstance—whether alive or dead."

Janābah only prevents one from praying, touching the Qur’an, and staying in the mosque. It does not prevent sitting with or meeting other Muslims, nor does it render the person impure.

The believer is pure, whether alive or dead.

Honoring the people of virtue, knowledge, and righteousness—and keeping their company in the best manner.

The legitimacy of a follower seeking permission from their leader before departing—for the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) reproached Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) for leaving without his knowledge. Indeed, seeking permission is a sign of good manners.

Saying: Subānallāh (Glory be to Allah) upon astonishment.

The permissibility of a person speaking about private matters concerning themselves, when there is a legitimate benefit.

The disbeliever is impure, but his impurity is spiritual, stemming from the corruption of his beliefs.

An-Nawawi said: "This Hadīth also contains etiquettes, that when a scholar notices something from their student that they fear may contradict correct practice, they should inquire about it, explain the proper way, and clarify the ruling to them, and Allah knows best."

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade the one who wants to relieve himself by urinating or defecating from facing the Qiblah and the direction of the Ka‘bah and from turning his back to it by making it behind his back. Rather, he should turn away from that direction towards the east or the west in case his Qiblah is like that of the people of Madīnah. Then, Abu Ayyūb (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that when they went to the Levant, they found the lavatories, which were set up for answering the call of nature, built facing the direction of the Ka‘bah. So, they used to divert their bodies from the Qiblah and seek forgiveness from Allah despite that.

The rationale behind this is to show veneration and respect for the honorable Ka‘bah.

Seeking Allah's forgiveness after coming out of the place of answering the call of nature.

The good teaching of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) because when he mentioned what is forbidden, he guided to what is permissible.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified here some manners as he forbade men from holding their penis with their right hand while urinating and forbade the act of removing impurity from the private parts, front or back, with the right hand because the right hand is meant to be used for noble matters. He also forbade breathing into the vessel from which one is drinking.

Demonstrating how Islam is in the lead when it comes to manners and cleanliness.

Avoiding filth, but if one has to touch it, then let him do so with his left hand.

Highlighting the nobility of the right hand and its superiority over the left one.

Perfection of the Islamic Shariah and comprehensiveness of its teachings.

In these two Hadīths, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade praying after the Fajr prayer up until the sun rises and goes beyond its zenith, as seen by the normal eye for as much as the height of a spear fixed in the horizon. This period is estimated to be between 5 to 15 minutes. He also forbade praying after the ‘Asr prayer up until the sun sets, i.e. few minutes before the Adhān of the Magrib prayer. That is because offering prayer at these two times involves resemblance to the polytheists who worship the sun upon its rising and setting, and Muslims are forbidden from acting like them in their worship, because whoever imitates a people becomes one of them.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) emphasized that if the rows are not straightened in the prayer, Allah will cause dissension amongst the worshippers, thus making them turn their faces away from each other. This occurs when some of them step forward and leave gaps in the rows. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to teach his companions with his words and actions. He straightened them with his hands until he thought that they had learned. Then in a prayer, he saw one of his companions with his chest sticking out from the row. This made him angry and he said: ''Straighten your rows, or Allah will cause dissension amongst you.''

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarifies the serious threat to the one who raises his head in prayer before his Imam, as Allah may transform his head into that of a donkey or transform his shape into that of a donkey.

There are four conditions for a person led in prayer in relation to the Imam, three of which are prohibited and they are: making a movement before the Imam, making a movement simultaneously with the Imam, and delaying in following the Imam. The prescribed condition; however, is: acting immediately after the Imam.

It is obligatory for the one led in prayer to follow the Imam.

The threat to transform the shape of the one who raises his head before the Imam to that of a donkey is possible and is a form of deformation.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade praying in the presence of food, which the praying person craves and wants very much. Also, he forbade praying while resisting the need to relieve oneself of the two filths - urine and stool - for this causes distraction.

Before commencing the prayer, a worshiper should eliminate anything that may distract him during their prayer.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) led his Companions in the Zhuhr prayer. After completing the first two Rak‘ahs, he stood without sitting for the first Tashahhud. The people behind him followed suit. When he performed the last two Rak‘ahs and people were expecting him to make Taslīm, he said ''Allah Akbar'' while sitting and performed two prostrations, which are the two prostrations of forgetfulness, and then he made Taslīm. Those extra prostrations made up for the missed Tashahhud.

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that once he was with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) at Mina during the Farewell Pilgrimage, and he came riding a female donkey. He passed in front of part of the row while the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was leading his Companions in prayer with no wall in front of him. Ibn ‘Abbās thus dismounted and let the female donkey loose to graze and he joined the row. At that time, as he reported, he was about to attain the age of puberty. This means that he reached an age in which he should have been blamed if he had done something wrong that would invalidate others' prayer. However, neither the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) nor any of his Companions objected to what he had done.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to raise his hands to be parallel with or in alignment with the shoulder, which is the part where the shoulder and upper arm bones are connected, in three positions during the prayer. First position: When commencing the prayer and making Takbīrat al-Ihrām (Opening Takbīr). Second: When making Takbīr for Rukū‘. Third: When raising his head from Rukū‘ and saying: Sami‘allāhu liman hamidah, rabbana wa laka al-hamd" (Allah hears whoever praises Him, O our Lord, praise be to You). He would not raise his hands upon making Sujūd or rising therefrom.

One of the rationales behind raising the hands in prayer is that it is an adornment for the prayer and glorification of Allah Almighty.

It was proven from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) that he raised his hands in a fourth position, as reported in the version of Abu Humayd as-Sā‘idi by Abu Dāwūd and others, upon rising from the first Tashahhud in the three-Rak‘ah and four-Rak‘ah prayers.

It was also authentically reported from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) that he used to raise his hands in alignment with his ears without touching them, as reported in the version of Mālik ibn al-Huwayrith in the Two Sahīh Collections: "When making Takbīr, the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would raise his hands until they were in line with his ears."

Coupling Tasmī‘ (saying: Allah hears whoever praises Him) with Tahmīd (saying: O our Lord, praise be to You) is exclusive for the Imam and the one praying alone. However, the one praying behind the Imam should only say: "Rabbana wa laka al-hamd" (O our Lord, praise be to You).

Four wordings were authentically reported from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) regarding the way of saying: "Rabbana wa laka al-hamd" (O our Lord, praise be to You) after Rukū‘ and this is one of them. It is preferable that one follows these wordings and uses them alternately.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) taught Ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) the Tashahhud, which is to be recited in prayer, while holding his hand between both his hands to attract his attention to him, just as he would teach him a Surah from the Qur’an. This signifies how important the Prophet regarded this Tashahhud, its words and meanings. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "At-tahiyyātu lillāh": It means that every word or deed denoting glorification is due to Allah Almighty. "As-salawāt": It means that the known prayers, both the obligatory and the voluntary, are due to Allah Almighty. "At-tayyibāt": It means that the good words, deeds, and attributes that denote perfection are all due to Allah Almighty. "As-salāmu ‘alayka ayyuha an-nabiyyu wa rahmatullāhi wa barakātuh": A supplication for him to be granted safety from every evil and harm and to be granted more of all good things. "As-salāmu ‘alayna wa ‘ala ‘ibādillāhi as-sālihīn": It is a supplication for the one praying and for every righteous slave in heaven and on earth to be granted safety. "Ash-hadu alla ilāha illallāh": It means I firmly acknowledge that there is no true god but Allah. "Wa anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasūluh": I affirm that he is a slave of Allah and His last Messenger. Then, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessing be upon him) urged the one praying to choose whatever supplication he would like.

This Tashahhud is to be recited while sitting following the last prostration in every prayer, and after the second Rak‘ah in the three-Rak‘ah and the four-Rak‘ah prayers.

Tahiyyāt is obligatory in the Tashahhud, and it is permissible to recite any of the wordings of Tashahhud that are authentically reported from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).

Permissibility of supplicating Allah for whatever one wishes for as long as it does not involve sin.

It is recommended to start by oneself when making supplication.

The praying person is standing before his Lord, conversing with Him in privacy and calling upon Him. If someone passes by him in this state, he interrupts this private conversation and disturbs his worship. That is why it is a serious sin on the part of whoever causes disturbance of a person's prayer by passing in front of him. So the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed us that if a person would know the consequences of his passing; meaning: the sin and misdeed that he incurs, he would have preferred to stand in his place for extended periods of time than to pass in front of someone during his praying. Therefore, a Muslim must guard against this action and avoid it.

The Shariah enjoins caution and firmness in all matters. Prayer is the most important among all worldly and religious affairs. Therefore, the wise Lawgiver urges people to take care of it and orders the praying person to use something as a barrier between himself and the people so that they would not render his prayer deficient by passing in front of him as he worships his Lord and communicates privately with Him. If someone tries to pass before him, he should repel him in the easiest way possible. If he does not stop, however, he is no longer deemed inviolable, for he is now a transgressor. In such a situation, the only way to avert his aggression is to fight him by pushing him away forcefully. This is because his action is typical of the devils who seek to spoil people's acts of worship and cause them confusion during prayer.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) set out in the year of Hudaybiyah intending to perform ‘Umrah. Before he arrived at the designated place of Ihrām for the inhabitants of Madīnah, which is Dhu al-Hulayfah, he was informed that an enemy was coming from the direction of the sea-shore intending to fight him. So, he commanded a group of his Companions – among whom was Abu Qatādah – to take the right direction on the sea-shore route in order to avert them. They proceeded toward that direction. When they departed to meet up with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) at his appointed time, they all entered in the state of Ihrām except Abu Qatādah. While they were walking they saw a group of onagers, and they hoped inside themselves that Abu Qatādah would see them since he was not in a state of Ihrām (he could hunt). When he saw them, he chased them and wounded a she-onager. So, they all ate from its meat. Then they felt some doubt concerning the permissibility of their eating from it, while they were in a state of Ihrām. So they carried what was left of its meat until they caught up with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and asked him about it. He asked them if anyone of them ordered Abu Qatādah or helped him by pointing or hinting at it. They replied that nothing of the sort happened. So he assured their hearts by telling them that it was lawful for them, and ordered them to eat what was left thereof. He also ate from it, in order to give comfort to their hearts.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that the sun and the moon are among the signs of Allah, the Almighty, that demonstrate His power and wisdom. He added that whenever their normal system experiences some change, this has nothing to do with the birth or death of great figures, as the people of the pre-Islamic period of ignorance used to believe. Earthly events have no effect upon them. This only aims at frightening the slaves of Allah, the Almighty, and reminding them of their sins and the due punishment, so that they turn to their Lord in repentance and ask for His forgiveness. For this reason, the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) instructed them to rush to prayer and supplication till such a situation ends and the sun or moon brightens. Indeed, the universe abounds with many divine secrets and hidden aspects of the wise planning.

When the sunlight vanished, or partially disappeared, during the Prophet's lifetime, he stood up in panic, as his complete knowledge of his Lord made him constantly fearful and watchful, given the misguidance and transgression of most people on earth or the possible imminence of Doomsday. So, he entered the mosque and led people in the Eclipse Prayer, prolonging the standing and prostration in a way not seen before, a sign of repentance and pursuit of forgiveness from Allah, the Almighty. Having finished his earnest supplication, the Prophet turned to people, exhorting them and explaining that Allah sends these signs to His servants as a lesson, a reminder, and a means of intimidation, so that they may hasten to remember their Lord, invoke Him, and engage in prayer.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to seek refuge with Allah from four things after reciting the last Tashahhud and before ending the prayer, and he commanded us to do the same. First: from the punishment of the grave. Second: from the punishment of Hellfire on the Day of Judgment. Third: from the trials of life, including its forbidden desires and its misleading doubts, and from the trials of death, i.e., the time of dying, including deviation from Islam or from the Sunnah, or the trial of the grave like the questioning of the two angels. Fourth: from the trial of the Antichrist who will come at the end of time as an affliction from Allah to test His slaves. The Antichrist was mentioned in particular because of the gravity of his trial and misguidance.

This form of Isti‘ādhah (seeking refuge with Allah) is among the most important and most comprehensive supplications as it includes seeking refuge from the evils of this worldly life and the Hereafter.

Affirmation of the punishment of the grave and that it is real.

The gravity of the trials and the importance of seeking Allah's help and supplicating Him to be saved from such trials.

Proving the emergence of the Dajjāl (Antichrist) and the severity of his trial.

It is recommended to recite this supplication after the last Tashahhud.

It is recommended to make Du‘ā’ (supplication) after performing a righteous deed.

On making Takbīr to commence the prayer, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would take a brief pause before reciting Surat al-Fātihah. During this pause, he would start his prayer by reciting some supplications. Among the supplications reported in this regard is his saying: "Allāhumma bā‘id bayni wa bayna khatāyāy kama bā‘dta bayna al-mashriqi wa al-maghrib*. Allāhumma naqqini min khatāyāy kama yunaqqa ath-thawbu al-abyadu min ad-danas. Allāhumma ighsilni min khatāyāy bith-thalji wa al-mā’i wa al-barad (O Allah, distance me from my sins as You have distanced the east from the west. O Allah, purify me from my sins as a white garment is purified from dirt. O Allah, wash out my sins with water, snow, and hail)." He supplicates Allah Almighty to keep him far from sins, by helping him not to commit them, in such a way that makes it impossible for them to meet, just as the East and the West can never meet; and to purify him and remove such sins if he commits them, as filth is removed from the white garment; and to wash him from his sins and cool off its flames and heat with such cold purifiers: water, snow, and hail.

The opening supplication is to be recited inaudibly, even if the prayer is audible.

Keenness of the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) to learn about the circumstances of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) in his movements and instants of stillness.

Other wordings of the opening supplication have been reported. It is preferable that one pursues the opening supplications, which are authentically reported from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), and recites them alternately.

Throughout prayer one glorifies Allah with words and actions. This noble Hadīth explains the emblem of prayer: Allah's grandeur and greatness. This was made its symbol only because prayer itself was prescribed for the exaltation and glorification of Allah. When starting the prayer, one says the Takbīr al-Ihrām while standing up. After one recites some Qur'an and bows, one says "Allah Akbar". Then when rising from bowing, one says ''Allah hears the one who praised Him!'' Then one stands up again, praises Allah and glorifies Him while standing. When going down for prostration, one says "Allah Akbar" and does so when rising one's head from prostration. The procedure is observed throughout the prayer, until one finishes. When standing up from the first Tashahhud, one says "Allah Akbar". In taking up a new posture in prayer, one says Takbīr except when rising from bowing.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered that the Zhuhr Prayer should be delayed when the heat is intense, which is from the breathing and blaze of Hellfire, to a time when it is fairly cool, so that one is not distracted by heat and grief from submissiveness in prayer.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) points out that one of the ethics that should be observed by those who attend the Friday sermon is to listen to the preacher to ponder over the delivered lessons and that whoever speaks - albeit the least of words - while the Imām is giving the sermon and tells someone to "keep silent" or to 'listen' has thus missed the merit of the Friday prayer.

It is prohibited to speak while listening to the sermon, even to forbid something wrong, return a greeting, or say tashmīt (saying: may Allah show mercy to you) to someone who has sneezed.

Excluded from this is a person who speaks to the Imām or the Imām speaks to him.

It is permissible to speak between the two sermons if needed.

If mention of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) is made while the Imām is delivering the sermon, you should invoke Allah's blessings upon him inaudibly. The same holds for saying 'amen' after supplications.

Spending the nights of the 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah (Tashrīq Nights) at Mina is one of the obligatory acts of Hajj that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) observed. Indeed, staying at Mina on those nights and days is an act of obedience to Allah, the Almighty, and from the rites of Hajj. Since providing water for the pilgrims is one of the most favorable acts which draw the slave near to Allah, being a service offered to the pilgrims and guests of His House, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) allowed his paternal uncle Al-‘Abbās to leave spending the night in Mina, because he was in charge of providing water for the pilgrims, which was a general benefit. This indicates that other people who are not in charge of similar tasks, and do not have a valid excuse are not entitled to this concession.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) commanded hastening in preparing the funeral, performing the prayer over it, and burying it. If the deceased is righteous, it is good that you are sending him to the bliss of the grave. If otherwise, it is evil that you are removing from your shoulders.

Ibn Hajar said: It is recommended to hasten, but in a manner that does not lead to excessive speed that might cause harm to the deceased or difficulty for those carrying or accompanying the funeral.

Hastening is conditional upon the death not being sudden, where there is a fear it might be a case of fainting; in such situations, burial should be delayed until death is confirmed. Additionally, a slight delay is permissible for a valid reason, such as allowing more people to attend the prayer or for the arrival of relatives, provided there is no concern about the body deterioration.

The encouragement to hasten the funeral is for the benefit of the deceased if he is blissful or for the benefit of those who follow it if he is wretched.

An-Nawawi said: This implies avoidance of the company of idle and unrighteous individuals.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered that moderation should be observed in prostration, in such a way that the one praying adopts a good posture in prostration, with his hands on the ground and his forearms lifted and kept away from his sides. This is because such a posture indicates the energy and eagerness required in prayer, and also because this good posture allows all the prostrating organs to have their share in worship. He forbade spreading the forearms in prostration because it is evidence of laziness and boredom, and it also constitutes imitating the dog, which is an improper imitation.

Opposing the People of the Book as well as eliminating difficulty and hardship are from the objectives of Shariah. Sa‘īd ibn Yazīd (a trustworthy Tābi‘i) asked Anas ibn Mālik if the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to pray with his shoes on, so that he would follow his example. It is also possible that he thought this to be unlikely because of the filth and dirt that shoes normally have. Anas replied in the affirmative, i.e. the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to pray while wearing his shoes and this practice is from his authentic Sunnah. It is not specific to a certain place or certain time.

The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) tells us that a man bought a piece of land from another man and the buyer found gold in it. Out of his strong religious prudence, he returned the gold to the seller because he bought the land, but not the gold. The seller also refused to take it out of his caution and religious prudence, and because he sold the land with everything in it. So, they sought legal settlement and they told the one who judged between them to send someone to take the gold and place it wherever he saw fit. The man refused but asked them if they had children. One of them said that he had a son and the other said he had a daughter. So, he suggested to them to marry the young man to the girl and to use some of the gold for their living expenses and to give some of it in charity.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) relates to us in this Hadīth the story of two women who went out, each with her son. The wolf snatched away one of their two sons. Each of them claimed that the remaining child was hers. They brought their case to Dawūd (peace be upon him), who ruled that the child belonged to the older woman, based on his personal judgment, as the older one might be unable to have children, whereas the younger woman could have another baby in the future. As they departed, they went to Sulaymān (peace be upon him) and related the matter to him. Thereupon, he called for a knife and said: "I will rip him in two halves and give each of you one half." The older woman agreed. But the younger one refused, instead letting the baby be taken by the older one. Upon that, he decided that the baby belonged to the younger woman, based on evidence, as she mercifully preferred that he be taken by the other woman than him being ripped in two halves.

In this Hadīth ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) informs about the Prophet’s Hady, the sacrificial animals sent to Makkah to be slaughtered at the Sacred House as a means of drawing close to Allah, the Almighty, and as an act of Sunnah. The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) sent sheep and camels as Hady. According to the Sunnah, such animals should be slaughtered at the Sacred House, as a means of attaining nearness to the Almighty Lord, and should be distributed among the poor and needy there. As for the Hady that becomes due in Tamattu‘ (performing ‘Umrah during the Hajj season) or Qirān (assuming Ihrām for Hajj and ‘Umrah together) Hajj, or on account of failure to observe one of the obligatory rites of Hajj or because of committing a prohibited act, this is called Fidyah, which is an obligatory Hady. The Hady mentioned by ‘Ā’ishah, on the other hand, is a voluntary one, which a believer may send from his country or purchase on the way and bring to the Ka‘bah, seeking closeness to his Lord, Exalted and Glorified.

A trustee who is Muslim and honest and who carries out what is assigned to him, willingly and cheerfully, will be regarded as one of the two givers of charity. He should be Muslim, for if he is non-Muslim and honest, carrying out what is assigned to him, still he will not be rewarded for that, since non-Muslims will not obtain rewards in the Hereafter for their good deeds. Allah, the Almighty, says: {And We will regard what they have done of deeds and make them as dust dispersed} [Sūrat al-Furqān: 23]. He also says: {And whoever of you reverts from his religion [to disbelief] and dies while he is a disbeliever - for those, their deeds have become worthless in this world and the Hereafter, and those are the companions of the Fire, they will abide therein eternally} [Sūrat al-Baqarah: 217]. If a person performs good deeds and then converts to Islam, he will be rewarded for those past deeds. So, he should be Muslim and honest and should execute what is required of him, and finally he should do so willingly and cheerfully; in other words, he should not mistreat those he gives or remind them of the favors done to them. In this way, he will be regarded as one of the two givers of charity, though he has given nothing from his own money.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to perform the voluntary prayer only on the back of his riding beast, regardless of its direction. He would gesture with his head instead of bowing and prostration and did not bother to dismount to bow, prostrate himself, or face the Qiblah. This applies equally to the voluntary prayers, the regular Sunnah prayers, and other prayers fir specific reasons. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) however, did not do so when performing the obligatory prayers. In addition, he would offer the Witr prayer on the back of his camel.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to honor and sanctify the Ka‘bah. If he was unable to go there himself, he would send a sacrificial animal thereto, out of his reverence for the Ka‘bah, and as an expression of generosity toward its neighbors. Whenever he sent a sacrificial animal, he would mark it and put a collar around its neck so that people would know that it was a sacrificial animal for the House of Allah and they would respect it and not harm it. Here ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) confirmed this practice of the Prophet by mentioning that she used to weave the collars for those sacrificial animals with her own hands. She added that if he sent a sacrificial animal while staying in Madīnah, he would not avoid the things that one who is in the state of Ihrām normally avoids such as women, perfume, wearing form-fitting clothes, etc. Rather, everything remained lawful for him.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered that a vessel be washed seven times if a dog puts its tongue into it. The first of these times should be accompanied by dirt, followed by water, so that it is completely clean from its impurity and harm.

The dog's saliva is extremely impure.

When a dog licks a vessel, this makes it and the water in it impure.

The command to cleanse a utensil with dust and repeat this seven times is only related to the dog's licking, apart from its urine and excrement and anything else it has made dirty.

How to wash a pot with dirt: Put water in the pot and add dirt to it, and then wash the pot with this mixture.

Apparently, the Hadīth applies to all dogs, including those sanctioned by the Shariah to be acquired, like hunting and guard dogs and those associated with cattle.

Soap and potash may not replace dust in this regard, because the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) specifically mentioned dust.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) mentioned five acts that belong to the religion of Islam and the practices of the messengers. First: Circumcision: This is to cut the foreskin of the glans of the male organ and to cut the tip of a female's clitoris. Second: Shaving the pubes. This is to cut the pubic hair, which grows around the sex organs. Third: trimming the mustache. This is to trim the hair that grows on a man's upper lip in a way that makes the lip visible. Fourth: Clipping the nails. Fifth: Plucking the armpit hair.

The messengers' practices that Allah likes, is pleased with, and enjoins lead to perfection, purity, and beauty.

The legitimacy of observing these acts and not overlooking them.

These acts serve religious and worldly benefits, such as: improving appearance, cleaning the body, being heedful about purification, differing from the disbelievers, and complying with the commands of Allah.

Other Hadīths mention more acts of the Fitrah other than these five, like letting the beard grow and using the tooth-stick.

When Allah, Blessed and Exalted, enabled His Prophet to conquer Makkah and purify His Sacred House from idols, statues, and images, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) entered the Honorable Ka‘bah, with two of his servants, Bilāl and Usāma, and the Ka‘bah’s caretaker ‘Uthmān ibn Talha (may Allah be pleased with all of them) and closed the door of the Ka‘bah upon themselves, so that the people would not gather in large numbers when the Prophet went in it, in order to see how he worships Allah, thus they would distract him from the very purpose for which he came to this place; that is to communicate privately with his Lord and thank Him for His favors. When they stayed for long, they opened the door. ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar was keen to follow the footsteps of the Prophet and adhere to his Sunnah. Therefore, he was the first to enter when the door was opened, and he asked Bilāl if the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had prayed inside the Ka‘bah and the latter replied in the affirmative, adding that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) offered prayer between the two Yemeni Pillars. The honorable Ka‘bah had six pillars at the time. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stood with three of the pillars behind him, two of them on his right side, and one on his left. The wall was three cubits away from him. He offered two Rak‘ahs and made supplication in all four corners of the Ka‘bah.

Whenever the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) wanted to enter the place where he would relieve himself, either urinating or defecating, he would seek refuge with Allah and resort to Him to protect him from the evil of the male and female devils. The "Khubuth" and "Khabā’ith" were also said to mean evil and impurities.

It is recommended to say this supplication upon entering the bathroom.

All creatures need their Lord in all of their affairs to ward off whatever could hurt or harm them.

When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) saw a man carrying his sacrificial camel, which he needed to ride, he asked him to ride it. Since sacrificial animals were revered and not bothered in any way, the Companion inquired about its status as a sacrificial animal offered at the Sacred House. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked him to ride it even if it was offered as a sacrifice at the Sacred House. He asked him three times and the third time he ordered him in a stern manner to clarify that it is permissible to ride it even if it was a sacrificial animal, then the man rode it.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that whoever seeks martyrdom and death in the cause of Allah and is sincere and faithful in his intention to Allah Almighty, Allah will give him the ranks of martyrs by his sincere intention, even if he dies in bed, not in Jihad.

The sincerity of intention and doing what is possible is a reason for achieving the intended reward and recompense, even if the required action is not carried out.

The Hadīth encourages Jihad and the pursuit of martyrdom in the cause of Allah Almighty.

Allah Almighty has honored this Ummah, as He rewards their little deeds with the highest degrees in Paradise.

Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) said to ‘Atā’ ibn Abi Rabāh: Shall I show you a woman of the people of Paradise? ‘Atā’ said: Yes. He said: This black Abyssinian woman came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and said: I suffer from an illness that causes me to have seizures, and I become uncovered, revealing parts of my body without my awareness. So supplicate Allah to heal me. He (the Prophet) said: If you wish, be patient and you will enter Paradise, or, if you wish, I will supplicate Allah to cure you. She said: I will remain patient, then she said: Supplicate Allah that I do not become uncovered if I have a seizure, and he supplicated Allah for her.

Patience in enduring worldly trials leads to Paradise.

An-Nawawi said: It contains evidence that one who is afflicted with epilepsy receives the most complete reward.

The chastity and modesty of the female Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) and their keenness on covering themselves, as this woman's greatest fear was that any part of her body might be exposed.

Ibn Hajar said: Choosing the stricter ruling over the concession is better for one who knows about himself that he is capable and is not weakened by adhering to what is strict.

Ibn Hajar said: It indicates that treating all illnesses through supplication and seeking refuge in Allah is more effective and beneficial than medicinal treatments. The impact of this on the body is greater than that of physical remedies. However, its efficacy depends on two conditions: 1. From the patient's side: sincerity of intention. 2. From the healer's side: the strength of their focus and heart through piety and reliance on Allah, and Allah knows best.

Ibn Hajar said: It contains evidence on the permissibility of abstaining from medical treatment.

A Bedouin entered the Prophet's Mosque on a Friday through a gate on the west side of the mosque, facing the house of ‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him), while the Prophet (ﷺ) was standing and delivering the sermon. The man faced the Prophet (ﷺ) and said: O Messenger of Allah, the livestock have perished, and the roads have been cut off because the animals that carry people have died or grown too weak from hunger. So pray to Allah to send us rain. So, he (ﷺ) raised his hands and said: O Allah, send us rain. O Allah, send us rain. O Allah, send us rain. Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him) said: By Allah, we could not see even a small patch of cloud in the sky, and between us in the mosque and Mount Sal‘—to the west of the mosque, from where clouds usually come—no house or building was obstructing our view. Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: Then a cloud rose from behind it, round like a shield—a small disc—and when it reached the middle of the sky over Madīnah, it spread out and then began to rain. By Allah, we did not see the sun because of the rain until the following Friday, when that man entered through the same gate while the Prophet (ﷺ) was standing and delivering the sermon. The man faced him and said: O Messenger of Allah, the properties have perished, and the routes have been cut off, so pray to Allah to withhold the rain from us. He said: So the Prophet (ﷺ) raised his hands and said: O Allah, let the rain fall around us and not upon us. O Allah, on the highlands, the small mountains, the valleys, and the places where trees grow. Anas said: The rain cloud dispersed, and we went out walking in the sunlight.

Taking the means to seek provision—such as supplication and traveling through the land—does not contradict reliance on Allah Almighty.

It is recommended to say this Prophetic supplication when seeking rain.

It is permissible to pray for clear weather—asking for the rain to stop—when the rain causes harm. The Prophet (ﷺ) specified that the rain remain on the hills, small mountains, and valleys because these areas are more suitable for farming and grazing.

It is permissible to ask for supplication from those who are thought to be righteous and pious among the living who are present—this is a permissible form of Tawassul (seeking means to Allah). However, Tawassul through the status or rank of any created being, whether living or dead, is not permissible, as it is one of the means leading to Shirk.

The legitimacy of showing persistence in supplication and repeating it.

It is permissible to speak to the preacher on Friday during the sermon when needed.

The magnificent power of Allah is manifested in His sending down and withholding of rain.

The wisdom of the Prophet (ﷺ) is shown in his supplication for the rain to be withheld only from where it caused harm, and not from where it was beneficial.

The legitimacy of performing Istisqā’ (supplication for rain) during the sermon.

Raising the hands during supplication—because it expresses humility and need, and symbolizes the expectation of receiving; and the scholars have unanimously agreed on raising them in this situation.

A sign from among the signs of the Prophet (ﷺ) proving his prophethood, as his supplication was answered immediately—both in bringing the rain and in causing it to cease.

Al-Barā ibn ‘Āzib (may Allah be pleased with him) describes the Prophet's prayer as he watched him closely to learn how he prayed and follow his example. He mentioned that all the Prophet's postures were in proportion. So, his standing for recitation and sitting for the Tashahhud were proportional to bowing, standing up after bowing, and prostration. He would not prolong his standing and shorten his bowing, nor would he prolong his prostration and shorten his standing. Rather, he would keep each posture commensurate with others. This does not mean that his standing and sitting for Tashahhud were exactly equal in length to his bowing and prostration. It means that he would not shorten one and prolong the other.

While one of the Companions was riding his mount at ‘Arafāt in the Farewell Pilgrimage, he fell from it, broke his neck and died. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered them to wash him with water and Sidr, as the dead are normally washed, and to shroud him in his upper and lower garments which he had worn for Hajj. Since the man was in the state of Ihrām and the traces of worship were still visible on him, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade them from perfuming him or covering his head. He justified that saying that he would be resurrected in the same state he died upon, which was the state of reciting Talbiyah, the slogan of Hajj.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) entered the mosque, and a man entered after him and prayed two quick Rak‘ahs (units of prayer) without being calm in his standing, bowing, and prostration. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was observing him as he prayed. The man then went over to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who was sitting in a corner of the mosque, and greeted him. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) returned his greeting and said to him: Go back and repeat your prayer for you have not prayed. He went back and prayed quickly as he did before, then he came and greeted the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), who said to him: Go back and pray for you have not prayed. He did this three times. The man then said: By the One Who sent you with the truth, I cannot do better than that. So teach me. He (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to him: When you stand for prayer, say the opening Takbīr, then recite the Opening of the Qur’an (Surat al-Fātihah) and whatever else Allah wills for you to recite. Then bow down until you are at ease in your bowing, placing your palms on your knees and straightening your back, allowing your body to settle into the bowing position. After that, rise up and stand upright until your bones return to their joints and you stand straight. Then prostrate until you are at ease in your prostration, by ensuring that your forehead, nose, palms, knees, and the tips of your toes are on the ground. After that, raise yourself until you are at ease sitting between the two prostrations. Do this in every Rak‘ah of your prayer.

These pillars of prayer cannot be waived, whether out of forgetfulness or ignorance, as evidenced by the command for the praying person to repeat his prayer. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did not suffice only to teach him.

Maintaining composure is one of the pillars of prayer.

An-Nawawi said: It indicates that whoever fails to perform any of the obligatory acts of prayer, his prayer is invalid.

An-Nawawi said: It also indicates being gentle with the learner and the ignorant, treating them kindly, clarifying the issue for them, summarizing the main objectives, and focusing on what is essential for them rather than the supplementary aspects that they may not be able to memorize or implement.

An-Nawawi said: This indicates that if a Mufti is asked about something and there is another matter that the questioner needs but did not inquire about, it is recommended for the Mufti to mention it. This should be considered as advising rather than speaking about irrelevant matters.

The merit of admitting negligence is clear in his statement: "I cannot do better than that. So teach me."

Ibn Hajar said: It indicates enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil, as well as the learner's requesting knowledge from the scholar and asking him to teach him.

It is recommended to greet with peace upon meeting someone, and it is obligatory to respond to the greeting. It is also recommended to repeat the greeting if the meeting occurs again, even if it is shortly after the previous one, and a response is required each time.

Jābir ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that a man called ‘Umayr ibn al-Humām asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) during the Battle of Uhud: O Messenger of Allah, tell me: If I fought until I was killed (meaning, if I fought the polytheists and got killed during this battle), what would my final destination be? The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) replied that he would be in Paradise. Upon hearing that, the man threw down some dates that were in his hand and said: "It will be such a long life if I wait until I eat these dates." Then he went forward and fought until he was killed (may Allah be pleased with him).

The Hadīth informs that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would occasionally carry Umāmah, the daughter of his daughter Zaynab, while he was in prayer. He would put her on his shoulder when he was standing and place her on the ground when he bowed or prostrated himself. He did this out of love and affection.

’Umm ‘Atiyyah al-Ansāriyyah (may Allah be pleased with her) reports that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prohibited women from walking with funeral processions. This was due to concerns about potential temptation for them and through them and their limited patience. However, she (may Allah be pleased with her) also mentioned that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did not emphasize this prohibition as strongly as he did with other forbidden matters.

Women are prohibited from following funeral processions—this is a general ruling that applies to following the deceased to where the body is prepared and prayed over, and the cemetery where burial occurs.

The reason for the prohibition is that women often cannot endure such sorrowful scenes and emotionally intense situations, as they might exhibit distress and anxiety contrary to the required patience.

The default ruling of prohibition is that it signifies strict forbiddance. However, ’Umm ‘Atiyyah (may Allah be pleased with her) understood from contextual evidence that the Prophet's prohibition against women following funeral processions was not absolute or emphatic. Nonetheless, there are other Hadīths that indicate stronger restrictions on attending funerals than what this particular Hadīth suggests.

The Ka‘bah is a revered noble House; it is a symbol of worshiping Allah and humbly submitting before Him. It has special awe, sublimity, attachment, and love in the hearts. That is why the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) commanded pilgrims to make Tawāf around the Ka‘bah the last ritual they perform before they leave Makkah. This is called the Farewell Tawāf. The menstruating woman, however, is exempted from this rite, since she might soil the mosque when she enters it. She is not required to offer expiation (slaughter a sacrificial animal) for that. This text refers only to Hajj, so it does not apply to ‘Umrah.

The Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) brought to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) a man who was drinking alcohol. The Prophet ordered them to beat him without specifying the number of beats, so the Companions started beating him, some with their bare hands, some with their sandals to humiliate him, and others with their clothes. They did not use a whip which is used for a prescribed punishment. Then after they ceased beating him; one of them made a supplication against him, saying: "May Allah disgrace you", asking Allah to humiliate and expose him among the people. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) instructed them not to say so as that would be helping the devil against him. If they supplicated Allah to disgrace him, perhaps Allah would answer their supplication, and the devil would thus achieve his purpose and overpower the man. Also, this supplication may alienate the man after he had received the punishment.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) enjoins that the mustache should be trimmed and not be left to grow; rather, it should be cut, and this should be done to a great extent. On the other hand, he enjoins that the beard should be left to grow long.

The prohibition of shaving the beard.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that when a Muslim or a believer performs ablution and washes his face during the ablution, every minor sin he looked at with his eyes comes out of his face with the water falling after washing or with the last drop of water. When he washes his hands, every minor sin he committed with his hands comes out of his hands with the water or with the last drop of water. When he washes his feet, every minor sin his feet walked towards comes out with the water or with the last drop of water, until he comes out cleansed of minor sins by the end of ablution.

The merit of observing ablution and how it expiates sins.

It was the Prophet's practice to encourage people toward acts of obedience and worship by mentioning the recompense and reward associated with them.

Every part of a person's body is involved in certain sins; thus, each sin is attributed to the specific organ that committed it, and is washed away from each organ he has repented from.

Ablution involves physical purification by washing the body parts included in ablution, as well as spiritual purification of the sins committed by those body parts.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) recounts the story of one of the prophets (peace be upon them) who set forth to fight a people against whom he was commanded to make Jihad. However, that prophet forbade from marching with him anyone who had married a woman but had not yet consummated his marriage with her or who had built a house but had not yet raised its roof or who had purchased sheep or pregnant she-camels and was waiting for them to give birth. That is because those people would be preoccupied with those concerns: the married man is preoccupied with his bride whom he has not yet consummated his marriage with and he longs for her. Likewise, the one who built a house and has not yet raised its roof is preoccupied with his house that he wishes to live in with his family. Also, the owner of pregnant she-camels and sheep is preoccupied with them and is waiting for them to give birth. Performing Jihad requires that the person be completely unoccupied, having no concern except fighting in the cause of Allah. Then, this prophet set out for battle, approaching his destination after midday with the night approaching. So, he feared that if darkness fell, he would not be able to achieve victory. He addressed the sun, saying: "You are subservient to Allah and so am I." But the sun's command is a universal command, while his command is a legislative one. He is commanded to fight in the cause of Allah, and the sun is commanded to move as Allah, the Exalted, has commanded it; Allah says: {And the sun runs on its fixed course for a term. That is the decree of the All-Mighty, the All-Knowing} [Sūrat Yāsīn: 38]. Ever since Allah created the sun, it has been moving as it was commanded, neither advancing nor delaying nor changing its altitude. The prophet said: "O Allah, hold it back (from setting) for us." So Allah held the sun back and it did not disappear at its normal time until that prophet conquered the village and gained many spoils of war. In previous nations, the spoils of war were not lawful for the army; rather, the lawfulness of spoils is one of the distinct characteristics of this (Muslim) nation, and all praise is due to Allah. As for the previous nations, they used to gather all the spoils, and if Allah accepted them, a fire would come down from the sky and devour them. Hence, the spoils were gathered, but the fire did not descend upon them or devour them. This prophet then said: "There is some misappropriation of the spoils." Then he commanded that each tribe present one person to pledge allegiance to him, proving that his tribe had not been dishonest with regard to the booty. When they gave him their pledge of allegiance, the hand of one of them stuck to the prophet's hand. Thereupon, he said: "Your tribe is the source of misappropriation." Then he commanded that each person from that tribe pledge allegiance individually, and the hands of two or three men stuck to his, whereupon he said: "You are the misappropriators." Then they brought it out, and they had hidden an amount of gold as big as the size of a bull's head. When the gold was brought and placed with the spoils, the fire devoured them.

Usāmah ibn Zayd (may Allah be pleased with him) recounts that one of the daughters of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) sent him a message that her son was dying and asked that he comes over. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) told the messenger to tell her to have patience and to hope for the reward from Allah; meaning that she should be patient with this calamity while expecting the reward for her patience from Allah. Some people are patient but they do not hope for the reward. If they are patient and intend with their patience that Allah give them reward for it, then this is the meaning of Ihtisāb (expecting the reward from Allah). The Prophet's words "to Allah belongs what He takes and to Him belongs what He gives" is a great statement indeed. If everything belongs to Allah, then if He takes something from you, it is His, and if He gives you something, it is also His. So, how could you be angry and discontent if He takes from you what is originally His? That is why it is an act of Sunnah that when a person is afflicted with calamity he should say: "To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return!" This expression clearly means that we are the property of Allah, Who thus can do what He wills with His property. Likewise are the things we love; if Allah takes them from us, they are ultimately His. So, He is the ultimate owner of what He takes and what He gives. Yo do not own what Allah gives you and, therefore, you cannot dispose of what He has given you except in the way He permitted. Our ownership of what Allah gives us is limited, and we do not have absolute freedom in disposing of it. If this is the case, then how can we be impatient and intolerant when Allah, the absolute Owner, takes back what belongs to Him? This contradicts reason and text (the Quran and Sunnah). The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) added that everything has an appointed term with Allah; meaning that He has a fixed time limit for everything. So, if you believe with certainty that to Allah belongs what He takes and to Him belongs what He gives and that He has fixed an appointed term for everything, you will be convinced without doubt that man cannot change the decreed term of anything, neither by advancing its time nor by delaying it. This conforms with the saying of Allah, the Exalted: {For every nation is a (specified) term. When their time has come, then they will not remain behind an hour, nor will they precede (it)} [Sūrat Yunus: 49]. So if a matter is predetermined by Allah and will neither be advanced or delayed from its appointed time, there is no benefit in impatience and discontent. Even if you are impatient and discontent, you will not change any part of fate. When the Prophet's daughter insisted that he goes to her, he went along with some of his Companions. He arrived when her child was in the throes of death. This made the eyes of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) filled with tears. Sa‘d ibn ‘Ubādah thought that the Prophet was crying out of impatience, so the Prophet told him that he cries out of mercy for the little dying boy, not out of impatience and discontent with fate. Then he added that Allah is merciful to those of His slaves who are merciful to others. This Hadīth indicates the permissibility of crying out of mercy for those who are afflicted with misfortune.

When a Muslim intends to undertake something where the correct course is uncertain, it is prescribed for him to perform the Istikhārah prayer. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to teach his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) this prayer just as he would teach them a Surah from the Qur’an. One should pray two Rak‘ahs other than the obligatory prayer and then supplicate Allah, saying: "O Allah, I consult You" asking for success in choosing the better of the two options, and I ask You "for Your knowledge" that is extensive and encompasses everything, "and I seek strength from You" to make me capable as I have no might or strength except through You "for Your power" as nothing can escape You. "And I ask You of Your great bounty" and Your extensive benevolence, as Your bounty is a favor from You and none is entitled to any blessing from You. "Indeed, You are capable" of everything, but I am weak and powerless "and I am not" capable of anything except with support from You. "And You know" with Your comprehensive knowledge that encompasses the hidden and the manifest, the good and the evil "and I do not" know anything except with Your favor and guidance "and You are the All-Knower of the unseen" as You possess ultimate knowledge and decisive power, while none has such power or knowledge except what You decree or grant. Then the Muslim supplicates his Lord, mentioning his specific need by saying: "O Allah", I have entrusted my matter to You, so "if You know" in Your knowledge of this matter "and let him name his need", such as buying this house, purchasing this car, marrying this woman, or any other matter. If it has already been decreed in Your knowledge that this matter contains "good for me in my religion," which protects my affairs, "my livelihood," in this world, "and the outcome of my affairs," or he said: "in my immediate and future affairs," both in this world and the Hereafter, then "decree it", prepare it, and complete it "for me," and make it smooth and "easy for me," " and then bless it for me", increasing the good within it. "And if You know", O Allah, "that this matter" I have sought counsel for is "evil concerning my religion, my livelihood, and the outcome of my affairs—or he said: in my immediate and future affairs—then turn it away from me, and turn me away from it, and decree for me what is good wherever it may be, and make me content with it," accepting all of Your decrees, whether it pleases or displeases me.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was extremely keen on teaching his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) this prayer because of the great benefit and immense good it contains.

It is recommended to perform Istikhārah and to recite the prescribed supplication afterward.

Istikhārah is recommended in permissible matters regarding which there is hesitation. It is not in obligatory or recommended actions, as they are to be performed in principle. However, one may seek guidance regarding aspects related to these, such as choosing companions for ‘Umrah or Hajj.

One does not make Istikhārah for performing what is obligatory or recommended, nor does one seek counsel when it comes to refraining from what is prohibited or disliked.

The supplication is to be recited after the prayer, as indicated by the Prophet's words: "And then say…", but if it is recited before Taslīm, there is no harm.

One must refer all matters to Allah and must renounce reliance on his own power and strength, as he has no power or strength except through Allah.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) passed by a woman at the grave of her son who had died. She used to love him dearly and could not keep herself from going out to his grave and crying there. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) saw her, he commanded her to fear Allah and be patient. She said: "Leave me alone, for you have not been afflicted with a calamity like mine." Then, it was said to her that this man was the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). So, she felt regret and went to the door of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) where there were no doormen to prevent people from entering. She said: "I did not recognize you." The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) then informed her that true patience, which one is rewarded for, is what he shows at the first strike of a calamity.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) commanded his Muezzin, Bilāl (may Allah be pleased with him), to pronounce the Adhān in pairs, because it is meant to draw the attention of those who are absent from the mosque, so its phrases are to be said twice. This excludes the Takbīr in the beginning, as it was authentically reported as being said four times, and the word of Tawḥīd (lā ilāha illā Allah) at the end, as it is authentically reported as being said once. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) also commanded Bilāl to pronounce the Iqāmah in singles, because it is meant to draw the attention of those in attendance. He was commanded to say each sentence once, except for the Takbīr and "qad qāmat aṣ-ṣalāh" (the prayer has started), as it was authentically reported as being doubled.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) set out to Dhu al-Hulayfah, the Miqāt (place where one assumes Ihrām) for the residents of Madīnah, intending to perform the Farewell Hajj in which he bid farewell to the Sacred House and the rituals of Hajj. He also bid farewell to the people and conveyed his message to them and made them bear witness to that. He assumed Ihrām for both Hajj and ‘Umrah. Thus, he performed Qirān Hajj. Since Qirān Hajj involves Tamattu‘, the people entered into Tamattu‘ along with him. Some people assumed Ihrām for Hajj and ‘Umrah, while others assumed Ihrām for ‘Umrah, intending to perform Hajj next. Some others assumed Ihrām for Hajj only. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) let them choose between the three types of Hajj. He, and so did some of his Companions, drove the sacrificial animals with him from Dhu al-Hulayfah, while others did not do so. When they approached Makkah, some of those who brought the sacrificial animals with them intending to do Ifrād or Qirān Hajj, suggested that they should revoke Hajj and replace it with ‘Umrah. But when they performed Tawāf and Sa‘i, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered them emphatically to shorten their hair, end the state of Ihrām for ‘Umrah, assume Ihrām for Hajj, and offer the sacrificial animals in order for them to perform both Hajj and ‘Umrah on a single journey. He ordered those who could not afford to offer a sacrificial animal to fast ten days: three during the Hajj days, starting from the time they assume Ihrām for ‘Umrah, and seven when they would return home. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) arrived at Makkah, he touched the Black Stone and performed seven rounds of Tawāf. He walked energetically during the first three rounds, which represented the Tawāf of Arrival, and normally in the remaining four rounds. Then he offered two Rak‘ahs behind the Station of Ibrahīm, headed towards Mount Safa, and performed the seven-round Sa‘i between Safa and Marwah. He would run between the two pillars and walk in a normal pace elsewhere. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did not end his Ihrām until he finished Hajj and slaughtered his sacrificial animals on the Day of Nahr. After he had finished Hajj, had thrown the ‘Aqabah pebbles, and had slaughtered his sacrificial animals and shaved his head on the Day of Nahr, in what is known as the first Tahallul, he headed towards the Ka‘bah in the forenoon and performed Tawāf around it. Then he did all the things that were prohibited under Ihrām, including having sexual relations with his wives. Those among his Companions who had driven the sacrificial animals with them followed suit.

Maymūnah, Mother of the believers, (may Allah be pleased with her) informed about the way the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) performed Ghusl from Janābah, as she put water for him to use in his bath and screened him with a screen. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), then, did the following: First: He poured water over his hands and washed them before putting them inside the vessel. Second: He poured water with his right hand over his left hand and washed his private parts to clean them from the traces of Janābah. Third: He struck the ground with his hand and wiped it, then washed it to remove any impurity. Fourth: He rinsed his mouth by taking water into his mouth, moving it around, and then spitting it out; he sniffed water by letting the water into his nose, inhaling it, and then blew it out to clean it. Fifth: He washed his face and arms. Sixth: He poured water over his head. Seventh: He poured water over the rest of his body. Eighth: He moved aside and washed his feet, which he had not washed before, in another place. Then, she brought him a piece of cloth to dry himself, but he did not take it, and he started wiping the water and shaking it off his body with his hands.

The Prophet's wives were extremely careful to describe the minutest details about his life to teach the Ummah.

This manner of Ghusl is one of the manners proven from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) regarding the manner of complete Ghusl from Janābah. As for the valid manner, it is by pouring water over the whole body along with rinsing the mouth and sniffing water.

It is permissible either to dry one's body with a piece of cloth or leave it after performing Ghusl or Wudū’ (ablution).

'Uthmān ibn' Affān (may Allah be pleased with him) practically taught the Prophet's manner of ablution to make it clearer. He asked for water in a vessel and poured water on his hands three times. After that, he entered his right hand into the vessel, took water with it, put it in his mouth and let it out. Then, he sniffed water into his nose and then blew it out. Then, he washed his face three times and then washed his forearms up to the elbows three times. Then, he passed his wet hand over his head once. Then, he washed his feet along with the ankles three times. When he (may Allah be pleased with him) finished, he informed them that he saw the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) perform ablution like that ablution and that he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave them glad tidings that whoever performs ablution like his ablution and offers two Rak'ahs, with presence of mind and humility before his Almighty Lord, Allah will recompense him for this complete ablution and this sincere prayer by forgiving his past sins.

It is recommended to wash the hands before inserting them into the vessel at the beginning of ablution, even if one is not awake from sleep. If one is awake from a night's sleep, washing his hands is obligatory.

A mentor should adopt the best approach whereby the learner can understand knowledge and absorb it in a better way. An example is to teach others by action.

A praying person should repel the thoughts related to worldly preoccupations, for the perfection and completion of prayer lies in the presence of the mind. Indeed, thoughts cannot be avoided altogether, but he should make an effort against them and not follow them.

It is recommended to begin with the right side in ablution.

It is prescribed to follow the order between rinsing the mouth, sniffing water into the nostrils and blowing it out.

It is recommended to wash the face, hands, and feet three times. It is obligatory to wash them at least once.

Forgiving the past sins results from two things together: performing ablution and offering two Rak‘ahs, in the manner demonstrated in the Hadīth.

Each organ of the organs of ablution has a boundary: The boundary of the face extends from the hairline to the lower end of the beard and chin, lengthwise, and from ear to ear, breadthwise. The boundary of the hand extends from the fingertips to the elbow, i.e. the joint between the forearm and the upper arm. The boundary of the head extends from the hairline on the face's sides to the upper neck. Wiping the ears is part of the head. The boundary of the foot includes the whole foot along the joint between it and the leg.

On taking a ritual bath from Janābah, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would start washing his hands. Then, he would make Wudū’ (ablution) as he would for prayer. Then, he would pour water over his body. Then, he would run his wet hands through his hair, and when feeling that water had reached the roots of the hair and had wetted the skin, he would pour the water thrice over his head, then, he would wash the rest of his body. ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: I and the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to bathe from a single container from which we would take water simultaneously.

Ghusl (ritual bath) has two types: valid and perfect. In the valid Ghusl, one intends Tahārah (ritual purification), then washes his whole body with water along with making Madmadah (rinsing the mouth) and Istinshāq (sniffing water into the nose and blowing it out). As for the perfect Ghusl, one takes a bath in the same manner the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did in this Hadīth.

Janābh is used to refer to whoever ejaculated or had sexual intercourse without ejaculating.

It is permissible for the spouses to look at each other's ‘Awrah (private parts) and to take a bath together from the same vessel.

Mulaykah (may Allah be pleased with her) invited the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to come and eat some food that she had prepared. Indeed, Allah, the Exalted, had created him with a propensity for the highest character and morals, such as abundant humility. Despite his lofty rank and high status, he accepted invitations from the old and the young, men and women, and the rich and the poor, intending high objectives and lofty goals, such as: consoling the hearts of the miserable, humility towards the poor, teaching the unlearned, and other praiseworthy goals. He accepted the invitation of this hostess and ate some of her food. He took this opportunity to teach those weaker individuals who may not be able to jostle with the others in attending his blessed gatherings. He told them to stand up so he could lead them in the prayer and they could learn from him how to pray. Anas brought an old reed mat that had turned black from prolonged use and washed it with water. The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stood upon it and led them in prayer. He made Anas and an orphan that was with him stand in a row behind him, and the elderly lady – the hostess – stand in a row behind Anas and the orphan and pray with them. he led them in two Rak‘ahs and then left, after fulfilling his duties of Da‘wah and teaching. May Allah bless us with following his actions and morals!

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) ‎reported that the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and ‎blessings be upon him) said: "If your wife asks your permission to go to the mosque, do not prevent her." This is in order not to deprive her of the merit of ‎performing the congregational prayer in the mosque. The ‎Hadīth highlights the ruling on a woman going out to the ‎mosque for prayer, which is permissible. Bilāl, a son of ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar, was present when his ‎father was reporting this Hadīth and said: "By Allah! We ‎will prevent them." Bilāl said so without any intention to ‎object to the legislator, as his objection was just out of his ‎jealousy and desire to protect the women, whose behavior ‎differed from what was common during the Prophet's lifetime, ‎especially regarding the wide use of adornments and the like. ‎However, his father believed that his objection was out of ‎rejection of the Prophet's Sunnah. Therefore, he angrily insulted ‎him in an unprecedented manner out of his anger and ‎zeal for Allah, the Almighty, and His Messenger (‎may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him), saying: "I am ‎telling you that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace ‎and blessings be upon him) said so, and you say: 'By Allah! We will prevent them'!"‎

Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him) mentioned that in spite of his long companionship with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and staying with him and his Rightly-Guided Successors, he never heard any of them recite "In the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful" in prayer, neither at the start, nor at the end. Rather, they used to start the prayer with {[All] praise is [due] to Allah, the Lord of the worlds} [Sūrat al-Fātihah: 1]. The scholars held different opinions on the ruling of reciting the Basmalah (In the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful) out loud, and the sound opinion is that the praying person recites the Basmalah secretly before reciting Sūrat al-Fātihah in every Rak‘ah of the prayer, whether it is a prayer with silent recitation or one that is recited out loud.

The noble Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed us that among the most wicked people in the sight of Allah on the Day of Judgment is someone who commits a betrayal by divulging the secrets of what goes on between him and his wife; things that no one else would know except the husband and wife. This Hadīth declares the unlawfulness of disclosing what goes on between a man and his wife in relation to sexual intercourse, describing the details, and revealing what the woman says or does. As for just mentioning sexual intercourse, if there is no benefit or need for it, it will be disliked, because it goes against the sense of honor. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day let him say good or remain silent." However, if there is a need to mention it or a benefit in talking about it, such as criticizing a man for shunning his wife or a wife claiming that her husband is impotent, in these cases it will not be disliked to mention it due to the benefit it entails, which has been proven by the Sunnah.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) supplicated to his Lord to not make his grave like an idol that people worship by extolling it and facing it in prostration. Then, he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) mentioned that Allah Almighty banished and expelled from His mercy those who took the graves of their prophets as places of worship, for taking them as places of worship is conducive to worshiping and having faith in them.

Exceeding the limits set by the Shariah with regard to the graves of the prophets and the righteous people turns them into idols worshiped apart from Allah. So, we should beware of the means leading to Shirk (polytheism).

It is not permissible to visit the graves to show reverence to them and perform worship there, regardless of the closeness of those buried to Allah.

It is prohibited to build mosques over the graves.

It is prohibited to perform prayer at the graves, even if no mosque is built there, except for prayer for a dead person upon whom the funeral prayer has not been offered.

Ali ibn al-Husayn (may Allah be pleased with him) informs us that he saw a man invoking Allah at the grave of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). He forbade the man from doing so based on a Hadīth in which the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade visiting his grave repeatedly, and also forbade non-observance of remembering Allah and worshiping Allah at homes, thereby rendering them similar to graves. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that sending peace upon him will definitely reach him, regardless of the sender's whereabouts.

‘Ali ibn Abi Tālib (may Allah be pleased with him) stated that he would frequently experience the discharge of Madhi, which is a thin and sticky whitish fluid that seeps out of the penis upon sexual arousal or before sexual intercourse. He did not know what he should do about it and was too shy to ask the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) because he was the husband of Fātimah, daughter of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). So, he asked Al-Miqdād ibn al-Aswad to ask the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) about it. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) replied: He should wash his penis, then, perform ablution.

The merit of ‘Ali ibn Abi Tālib (may Allah be pleased with him) who was not prevented by shyness from posing the question through an intermediary.

Permissibility of delegating someone to seek Fatwa on one's behalf.

Permissibility of revealing something personal, about which one feels embarrassed, for the sake of some interest.

Madhi is impure and must be washed off the body and the clothes.

The discharge of Madhi is among the invalidators of ablution.

It is obligatory to wash the penis and the testicles based on another Hadīth.

Umm Sulaym al-Ansāriyyah (may Allah be pleased with her) went to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to ask him about something. But as her question pertained to the private parts, something people would usually feel shy to talk about, she said a few words as a prelude to the question, preparing the attendees for what was to come. She noted that Allah, the Almighty, does not refrain from speaking the true things which people may refrain from due to shyness, as long as mention of such things is useful. After this introduction, she got to the point and asked: Is a woman required to take a ritual bath if she sees in a dream that she engages in sexual intercourse. In reply, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Yes, she is, if she sees vaginal fluid.

This Hadīth affirms the desirability of beginning with the right side in all good things. So, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) exhorts us to start from the right side when we wear our clothes or when we perform ablution. An exception are some organs included in the ablution, namely the two ears, the two palms, and the two cheeks. Each of those pairs is to be washed at the same time, if possible; otherwise, we should begind with the right one.

The Mother of the Believers, ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), informed that a woman came to her with her two daughters, asking for food. ‘Ā’ishah found nothing but a single date, which she gave to the woman. The woman split the date between her two daughters without eating any herself, then left. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) entered, ‘Ā’ishah told him what happened. He said: Whoever is responsible for these daughters and takes care of them and treats them well—educating them, feeding them, giving them drink, clothing them, and enduring all that with patience—they will be a shield and a barrier for him from Hellfire.

Caring for daughters and striving to provide for them are among the finest righteous deeds that shield one from Hellfire.

It is recommended to give charity with whatever one can afford, even if it is small.

The profound compassion of parents toward their children.

Clarifying the condition of the households of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and that his provision was just sufficient.

Illustrating the virtue of altruism, or selflessness, as a hallmark of the believers, for ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) preferred the woman and her two daughters over herself, which indicates her generosity and nobility despite her own dire need.

The blessing of daughters is called 'trial' because of the hardship and fatigue involved in their upbringing, or due to some people's dislike for them, or because they often lack the means of earning and a livelihood.

Islam came to eradicate the detestable practices of the pre-Islamic era, and thus it calls for honoring and caring for daughters.

This reward is attained even in the case of caring for one daughter, as mentioned in some narrations.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was asked: Which deed is dearest to Allah? He said: Offering the obligatory prayer at its appointed time prescribed by the Legislator. Then, being dutiful to one's parents by being kind to them, fulfilling their rights, and refraining from being undutiful to them. Then, making Jihad in the cause of Allah with one's life and wealth to make Allah's word supreme, defend the religion of Islam and its people, and spread its rituals. Ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) said: He informed me of these deeds, and if I had said to him: Then, what comes next? he would have informed me of more.

Deeds vary in their merit according to how dear they are to Allah.

Urging Muslims to be keen on performing deeds according to their degree of superiority.

The Prophet's replies concerning the best of deeds vary according to the various questioners, their conditions, and what is more beneficial to each of them.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) tells about the hypocrites and their laziness when it comes to attending the prayer, especially the 'Ishā' and Fajr prayers, and that if they were to know the amount of reward for attending them along with the Muslim congregation, they would come to it even if they had to crawl like infants upon their hands and knees. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) thought of ordering the prayer to be commenced and appointing someone to lead the people in prayer instead of him. Then he would go, along with people carrying firewood, to men who were not attending the congregational prayer and burn their houses with fire, given the gravity of their sin in doing so. Yet, he did not do that because the houses contained women, innocent children, and others with valid excuses for not attending the prayer - for they committed no sin.

The graveness of the failure to attend the congregational prayer in the mosque.

The hypocrites would seek nothing out of their worship but show-off and reputation, for they would only attend prayers when people could see them.

The reward for offering the ‘Ishā’ and Fajr prayers in the congregation is great, and they are worthy of being attended even if people have to crawl.

Regularly attending the ‘Ishā’ and Fajr prayers protects from hypocrisy, and the failure to participate in them is one of the traits of the hypocrites.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gives his followers the glad tidings that Allah, Glorified and Exalted, will grant them a sign of virtue and honor on the Day of Resurrection that will distinguish them from other nations. When called out, they will emerge, distinct from the rest of people with their radiant faces, hands and feet. This light is from the traces of a great act of worship, i.e. ablution, which they often performed on their limbs. In that they sought Allah's pleasure and reward, hence they will have admirable reward of illumination. Abu Hurayrah recommended to extend this radiance, because washing more space of the body yields more radiance. Indeed, the ornamentation of light reaches as far as the water of ablution reaches. However, in mandatory ablution, one washes the hands up to the elbow and a little bit further, and washes the feet up to the ankles and a little bit further. It is not required to wash the upper arms and shins.

Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) expresses his disapproval concerning the attitude of some people who used to attend his session from amongst the laymen, and who would display fear on hearing Hadīths about Allah's attributes. They would shiver out of their denial of that. They did not duly believe in what was authentically reported from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and whose meaning was known from the Qur'an, although it is the truth about which no believer doubts. Others, however, would interpret them in a way different from that intended by Allah, thereby exposing themselves to ruin.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that every day upon which the sun rises, two angels descend, calling out. One of them says: O Allah, give compensation to the spender, who spends on acts of obedience, on his dependents and guests, and on voluntary acts, and grant him goodness and blessing in return for what he spends. The other one says: O Allah, give the withholder damage and destroy the wealth that he withholds from those entitled to it.

It is permissible to supplicate for the generous person to be granted compensation and to be rewarded with what is better than what he has spent. It is also permissible to supplicate against the miser to lose his money that he has withheld out of stinginess and has not spent in the ways Allah has prescribed.

The angles supplicate Allah to grant the righteous believers, who spend in His way, goodness and blessing and their supplication is answered.

Encouraging the act of spending, whether it is obligatory or voluntary, such as providing for one's family, maintaining kinship ties, and in other fields of goodness.

Clarifying the merit of the one who spends on charitable causes and that Allah will consequently compensate him, as Allah Almighty says: {Whatever you spend in charity, He will compensate for it, for He is the Best of Providers.} [Surat Saba’: 39]

This supplication is against the one who withholds the obligatory expenditures, but the recommended ones are not included because the one who withholds them does not deserve such a supplication.

Miserliness and stinginess are prohibited.

A woman from the tribe of Juhaynah came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) as she was pregnant from adultery. She asked him to apply the prescribed punishment to her. Therefore, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) called her guardian and told him to treat her kindly and then bring her to him after she delivers her baby. When she gave birth, her guardian brought her to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who then ordered that her clothes be tied well around her so that her body would not be exposed, and then ordered stoning her to death. Afterwards, he offered the funeral prayer over her and made supplications for her. ‘Umar wondered why the Prophet prayed over her, despite the fact that she had fornicated. Hence, the Prophet told him that she had made a great repentance that would be useful to seventy sinners from among the people of Madīnah, if it were to be spread over them. That is because the lady came willingly and submitted herself for the sake of Allah, so as to rid herself of her sin. Is there anything greater than what she did?

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) mentions that when the garment of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would become stained with semen, if it were wet, she would wash it with water and he would go out to pray wearing it while the water had not dried. If the semen were dry, she would rub it well off his garment and he would pray while wearing it.

Husayn ibn ‘Abdur-Rahmān (may Allah have mercy on him) informs us about his conversation with Sa‘īd ibn Jubayr (may Allah have mercy on him) regarding Ruqyah. Husayn had been stung by a scorpion and performed the Shariah-approved Ruqyah. After Sa‘īd asked him about his proof for such practice, so he related the Hadīth that he heard from Ash-Sha‘bi which indicates the permissibility of Ruqyah [to resist] the evil influence of the evil eye and poison. Sa‘īd, in return, praised him for it, yet, he narrated to him a Hadīth that recommends leaving it. It is the Hadīth narrated by Ibn ‘Abbās which includes the four characteristics of those who will enter Paradise without account or torment. They do not ask others to perform Ruqyah for them, do not cauterize, refrain from believing in bad omens, and rely sincerely upon Allah, the Exalted. ‘Ukkāshah immediately asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to supplicate Allah to include him among them. Another man stood up, asking the same thing, but the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gently told him that it was not possible in order to stop further requests.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed the Companions that Muslims would win victory over the Jews of Khaybar the following day at the hands of a man to whom he would give the banner, which is the flag the army takes as its slogan. Among the traits of this man is that he loves Allah and His Messenger and Allah and His Messenger love him. So, the Companions spent their night conversing and talking about the one who would be given the banner, hoping to win that great honor. In the morning, they went to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), each wishing to be the one who would win that honor. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked about ‘Ali ibn Abi Tālib. It was said: He is sick suffering from sore eyes. So, he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) sent for him, and when they brought him, he spat his honorable saliva into ‘Ali's eyes and supplicated for him. ‘Ali thus recovered from his sickness as if he had suffered no pain at all. Then he gave him the banner and ordered him to proceed gently until approaching the enemy's fortress, and he should then invite them to Islam. In case they respond to him, he should inform them of what is obligatory upon them. Then, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified to ‘Ali the merit of calling people to Allah and the fact that if the preacher succeeds in guiding one single person, that will be better for him than having red camels, which represent the Arabs' most precious property, to possess or give out in charity.

Superiority of ‘Ali ibn Abi Tālib (may Allah be pleased with him) and the Prophet's testimony for him that he is loved by Allah and His Messenger and that he loves Allah and His Messenger.

The Companions' keenness to pursue goodness and their competing in doing good deeds.

It is a Shariah directive to adhere to good manners in fight, and give up rashness and needless disturbing voices.

Foretelling victory over the Jews and healing the eyes of ‘Ali ibn Abi Tālib, by Allah's permission, are among the signs of the Prophet's prophethood.

Making people embrace Islam is the greatest purpose behind Jihad.

Preaching should be carried out gradually, so the disbeliever should be at first asked to embrace Islam by pronouncing the Two Testimonies of Faith, and then he should be commanded to perform the obligations of Islam.

The merit of calling to Islam and the good it entails for the one called and the caller, as the former might be granted guidance and the latter would be greatly rewarded.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that the reward of the prayer that a man offers in congregation exceeds the reward of the prayer he offers in his home or market, i.e. the prayer which he offers alone, as inferred by comparing it to the congregational prayer, and because the prayers offered at home or in the market are performed individually in most cases. Congregational prayer exceeds the prayer one offers alone by the amount of twenty five times. His statement: "That is because," if "that" here refers to the virtue of prayer in congregation over praying alone, then this necessitates that this virtue is restricted to offering the prayer in congregation in the mosque. His statement: "Because if he," i.e. the person, if he performs ablution thoroughly, i.e. properly by doing the Sunnah acts and observes its etiquettes, then sets out in the direction of the mosque, with nothing causing him to go out but the prayer (if something else causes him to go out, or he goes out because of something else along with the prayer, then he will miss the following merits: He will not take a step except that he is raised one degree by it, and one sin is removed from his account, i.e. the minor sins involving rights of Allah, the Exalted. When he finishes his prayer, the angels continue to supplicate Allah for him, seeking mercy and forgiveness for him, as long as he is in his place of prayer, i.e. sitting therein. It is also probable that it means: as long as he remains in it (the place) even lying down, and does not invalidate his ablution. The praying person remains in prayer as long as he is waiting for the prayer," i.e. the period of time during which he is waiting for it.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that if a person equips a warrior in the cause of Allah and provides him with the means for travel and the necessary provisions, such as the weapon, mount, food, expenses, etc., he is considered to be a warrior in the cause of Allah and obtains the same reward. And if a person takes care of the affairs of a warrior in the cause of Allah and takes his place in looking after his family during his absence, he is considered to be a warrior in the cause of Allah.

Muslims are urged to cooperate in goodness.

Ibn Hajar said: This Hadīth encourages doing good to those who do something in the interest of Muslims or carry out one of their important tasks.

The general rule: Whoever aids someone in obeying Allah Almighty will have the same reward as his, without having this reward diminished in the least.

The Mother of the Believers, ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was never more consistent, diligent, and careful in performing any voluntary prayer than he was with the two Sunnah Rak‘ahs before the Fajr prayer.

Voluntary prayers refer to all prayers beyond the obligatory ones. Here, it specifically means the regular Sunnah prayers associated with the obligatory prayers.

The regular Sunnah prayers are: two Rak‘ahs before Fajr, four Rak‘ahs before Zhuhr and two after it, two Rak‘ahs after Maghrib, and two Rak‘ahs after ‘Ishā’.

The regular Sunnah prayer before Fajr is to be prayed both in residence and during travel, unlike the Sunnah prayers for Zhuhr, Maghrib, and ‘Ishā’, which are only prayed when resident.

The two Sunnah Rak‘ahs before Fajr are strongly recommended, and they should not be neglected.

This Hadīth shows the virtue of praying in congregation over praying alone, because praying in congregation - due to what it contains of great, immense benefit - is more virtuous and increases the reward by twenty-seven times more than praying alone. This is due to the great gap between the two in terms of achieving the target. Without a doubt, whoever misses out on this great profit is deprived.

‘Abdullah ibn Zayd (may Allah be pleased with him) clarified how the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to perform ablution practically. He asked for a small water container. First, he started by washing his hands; he tilted the container, poured water, and washed them thrice outside the container. Then, he put his hand inside the container and took three handfuls of water, and with each handful of water, he rinsed his mouth, sniffed water into his nostrils, and blew it out. After that, he took water from the container and washed his face thrice. Then, he took water therefrom and washed his hands up to the elbows twice each. He again put his hand in the container and wiped over his head with both hands, starting from the hairline and back to the nape, the upper part of the neck, and then returned them to the place where he started from. After that, he washed his feet along with the ankles.

The teacher's conduct is the closest way to understanding and establishing knowledge and this includes teaching by actions.

It is permissible to repeat washing some of the body parts of ablution three times and some two times; however, once is obligatory.

It is obligatory to observe the prescribed order of the body parts of ablution as mentioned in the Hadīth.

The facial limits extend from the natural hairline to the bottom of the beard and chin lengthwise and between the ears crosswise.

The Hadīth of ‘Amr ibn al-Āas (may Allah be pleased with him) which includes the subject of conveying glad tidings and congratulating because it bears a story. The summary of this great story is that some of his companions were present with him while he was in the throes of death. He cried profusely and turned his face towards the wall as he was about to depart this world, so his son said to him: Why are you crying so long as the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had given you the glad tidings of entering Paradise? He said: O my son, I was in three different states (in this world). Then he described these three states. First, he used to hate the Prophet so much and there was no one on the face of the earth who hated him more, and wished he could catch him and kill him, and that was extreme disbelief. He remained like that until Allah instilled love for Islam in his heart. So, he went to the Prophet and said: O Messenger of Allah, extend your right hand so that I may give you my pledge of Islam. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who was the best of all people in terms of manners, extended his hand, but ‘Amr withdrew his hand, not out of arrogance, but rather to ascertain what he was about to say. The Prophet asked him: What is the matter? He said: O Messenger of Allah, I have a condition (for embracing Islam). The Prophet asked: What is your condition? He said: That Allah forgive all my previous disbelief and sins. That was his biggest worry,(may Allah be pleased with him) fearing that Allah would not forgive him due to what he had done previously. So the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to him: Do you not know that Islam wipes out what precedes it, and that migration wipes out what precedes it, and that the pilgrimage wipes out what precedes it? Three things wipe out all sins: Islam: it wipes out what precedes it according to the text of the Qur’an; Allah, the Exalted, says: {Say to those who have disbelieved [that] if they cease, what has previously occurred will be forgiven for them. But if they return [to hostility] - then the precedent of the former [rebellious] nations has already taken place} [Sūrat al-Anfāl: 38]. Hijrah: when one's homeland is a land of disbelief and he emigrates from it, this action wipes out what preceded it. Hajj: it wipes out what preceded it, as the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The accepted Hajj has no reward but Paradise." So ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) pledged allegiance to the Prophet and loved him intensely, so much so that the Prophet became the dearest of all people to him and he could never take a good look at him out of reverence for him. Glorified is Allah who turns the hearts! In the past, he hated him so much that he wished to kill him, and now he is not even able to lift his eyes to him out of reverence for him, and is not able to describe him because he never fully stared at him out of awe and respect. ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) said that if he had died in the first state, he would have been from the dwellers of Hellfire. Then he said that if he had died in the second state, he could have hoped to be from the dwellers of Paradise. Notice his cautious choice of words; he was definitive in saying that if he had died in the first state, he would have been from the dwellers of Hellfire; but when it came to the second state, due to his intense fear, he said that if he had died in that state: "I could have hoped to be from the dwellers of Paradise," and he did not say: "I would have been from the dwellers of Paradise," since the confirmation of admittance to Paradise is a difficult thing to make. Then he said that, afterwards, he was entrusted with many affairs – being a ruler and a leader – and there occurred the incident of the battle with Mu‘āwiyah and others, and ‘Amr ibn al-‘Ās was known to be one of the shrewdest and most intelligent men among the Arabs. So he said: I fear that what had occurred after the second state might have nullified my deeds. Then he gave orders that no wailer (a woman who wails and laments the deceased) should follow his funeral, and that after they bury him, they should remain at his grave for as long as it would take them to slaughter a camel and distribute its meat, until he had answered the questions of the messengers of his Lord, meaning the angels who come to the dead person after he is buried. When the dead person is buried, two angels come to him and make him sit upright in his grave and ask him three questions: Who is your Lord? What is your religion? Who is your Prophet? So, ‘Amr ibn al-‘Ās (may Allah be pleased with him) ordered his family to stand by his grave for a time interval equal to the time it would take them to slaughter a camel and divide its meat, to seek solace and comfort in their presence. This is evidence that the deceased person can sense the presence of his family, and it was confirmed from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) that the deceased person hears the sound of their footsteps when they are leaving after his burial. Though the sound of sandals as they beat the ground is almost inaudible, the deceased hears it as the mourners depart after burying him. It was confirmed from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) in a sound Hadīth that when he buried a dead person, he used to stand over his grave and say: "Seek forgiveness for your brother and ask for steadfastness for him because he is being asked right now." So, when the dead person is buried, it is recommended to stand over his grave and say: "O Allah, make him firm (thrice); O Allah, forgive him (thrice)." Whenever the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said "Salām" (greetings of peace), he used to say it thrice; and whenever he made a supplication, he used to repeat it thrice. In short, the son of Āmr Ibn al-‘Ās said to him: "The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave you the glad tidings of being admitted to Paradise", and he said this as a way of giving glad tidings and congratulating for it.

Mu‘ādhah al-‘Adawiyyah asked the Mother of the believers, ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her): Why does the menstruating woman make up for her missed fasts but does not make up for the missed prayers? She answered her: Are you from the Harūriyyah Kharijites, those who ask excessive questions out of obstinacy and extremism? I said: I am not a Harūriyyah woman, but I am just asking. She said: We used to menstruate during the time of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), and we were commanded to make up for the missed fasts, but not the missed prayers.

Denouncing everyone who asks questions out of obstinacy and argumentation.

Al-Harūriyyah is attributed to a town near Kufa called Harūrā’—a sect of the Kharijites. The comparison to them is due to their extremism in religious matters, their excessive questioning, and their obstinate adherence to it.

The teacher's clarification for those who seek knowledge and guidance.

Responding with the exact text (of the Qur’an or Hadīth) is preferable, because ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) did not address the specific meaning the questioner asked about; this is because replying with the original text leaves no room for objection.

Submission to the ruling of Allah and His Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), even if the servant does not understand the wisdom behind it.

An-Nawawi said: The meaning of ‘Ā’ishah's statement is that a group of the Kharijites were making it obligatory for menstruating women to make up for the prayers missed during their menstrual period, which contradicts the consensus of Muslims. This questioning that ‘Ā’ishah engaged in was a questioning of disapproval, meaning: This is the way of the Harūriyyah, and what a bad way it is!

‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) on the Day of the battle of the Trench after the sun had set, and he was cursing the disbelievers of Quraysh, because they had distracted him from offering the ‘Asr prayer, and he could not pray it until after the sun had set. So the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) swore by Allah, and he is the truthful, that he too had not yet prayed it, in order to calm ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) because it was hard for him. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) got up and performed ablution, and the Companions did so too, and then he offered the ‘Asr prayer after the sun had set, followed by the Maghrib prayer.

Abu Ja‘far Muhammad ibn ‘Ali and his father were visiting the noble Companion Jābir ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) and he had some people with him. One of the men asked Jābir how much water would be sufficient for the ritual bath, and he replied: "One Sā‘ of water is sufficient for you." Al-Hasan ibn Muhammad ibn al-Hanafiyyah, who was one of those people sitting with Jābir, said that this amount was not sufficient for him to take a ritual bath. So, Jābir said that it was sufficient for someone who had more hair than him, and who was better than him, and therefore more careful than him regarding his purity and his religion (referring to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). This is meant to urge Muslims to follow the Sunnah and avoid wasting water while taking a ritual bath. Then Jābir led them in prayer.

Abu Mūsa al-Ash‘ari (may Allah be pleased with him) relates in this Hadīth that he came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) while he was cleaning his mouth with a ripe tooth-stick – a ripe tooth-stick cleans better and does not crumble inside one's mouth and hurt. He was placing the tooth-stick on his tongue and was cleaning his mouth thoroughly, as if he was going to vomit.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) sent 'Ammār ibn Yāsir (may Allah be pleased with him) on an errand. 'Ammār became in a state of Janābah (major ritual impurity), either because of sexual intercourse or the discharge of semen upon sexual arousal, and could not find water to take a ritual bath. He did not know the ruling on performing Tayammum (dry ablution) for Janābah; however, he knew its ruling for minor Hadath (ritual impurity). Based on his Ijtihād (personal reasoning), he thought that just as dirt on the surface of the earth is used to wipe some of the body parts of ablution in case of minor Hadath, then performing Tayammum from Janābah must be done by comprehending the entire body with dirt, in analogy to water. So, he rolled in dirt until it reached his whole body and then prayed. On coming to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), he mentioned it to see whether his actions were right. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified to him the manner of attaining purity from minor Hadath like urine and from major Hadath like Janābah, namely by striking dirt with his hands once, then wiping the right hand with the left one, as well as the back side of his hands and face.

It is obligatory to seek water before making Tayammum.

It is permissible for the one in the state of Janābah to make Tayammum in case he could not find water.

Tayammum for major Hadath is like Tayammum for minor Hadath.

One night, ‘Abdullāh ibn Harām woke his son Jābir and said to him that he had a strong feeling that he would be the first to be killed in the battle they were going to fight along with the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). This happened shortly before the battle of Uhud. Then, he gave him some instructions, reminding him that he had none who was dearer to him than Jābir except for the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). He asked him to pay off a debt that was due upon him. He also commanded him to take care of his sisters. When the battle started, ‘Abdullāh fought and was killed. The number of Muslims who were killed in this battle amounted to seventy men, the thing that made it hard for the Muslims to dig a grave for each man separately. So, they buried in a single grave two or three men. ‘Abdullāh was buried with another man in the same grave; a situation that annoyed Jābir. He did not feel at ease until he placed the dead body of his father in a separate grave. He found his body in the same condition as the day when he had first buried him, except for a small part of his ear which had changed slightly.

The Sunnah regarding the slaughter of cows, sheep, and others is to cut their throats while they are lying on their left sides, facing the Qiblah. As for a camel, then the Sunnah in slaughtering it is to cut the jugular vein in its neck while it is standing with its left leg tied. That is because this position is comfortable for the camel by letting its soul depart the body quickly. For this reason, when ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) passed by a man who wanted to slaughter his camel while kneeling down, he said: Slaughter it while it is standing with one leg tied up, as this is the Sunnah of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who acted upon the instructions of the Qur'an on slaughter as Allah, the Almighty, says: {when they are down on their sides (after slaughter)} [Sūrat al-Hajj: 36]. i.e. fall down, and falling down occurs only when it is in a standing position.

This Hadīth confirms the Islamic principle of gentleness towards the weak, like orphans and women. It is noticed in this Hadīth that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave extra care to the rights of orphans and women because they have no authority to resort to for defending them. So, he declared that whoever usurps their rights is sinful and exposes himself to suffering difficulty and hardship.

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) mentioned that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to recline in her lap and recite the Qur'an while she was having her menses. This indicates that the body of the menstruating woman is pure, and does not become impure because of menstruation.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that no prophet had been sent by Allah to a nation before him except that he had close friends, supporters, and sincere fighters from among his nation who were qualified to succeed him, adopting his way and following his command. These righteous predecessors would, then, be succeeded by people who were void of goodness; claiming what they did not practice and practicing what they were not commanded to do. Whoever strives against them with his hand is a believer, whoever strives against them with his tongue is a believer, and whoever strives against them with his heart is a believer, but beyond that, there is no mustard seed's weight of faith.

Encouraging the struggle against those who violate the Shariah with their words and deeds.

The heart's failure to disapprove of evil indicates the weakness or loss of faith.

Allah Almighty facilitates for the prophets those who convey their message after them.

Whoever seeks salvation must follow the prophets' methodology because every way other than theirs leads to destruction and misguidance.

As the time gap separating people from the time of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and that of his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) grows bigger, people become more liable to abandoning the Sunnah, following their whims, and introducing religious innovations.

Clarifying the levels of Jihad and how it should be carried out with the hand for whoever is capable of change, like the guardians, rulers, and leaders; with the words through demonstrating and advocating the right; and with the heart through disapproving evil, refraining from loving it or being content with it.

It is obligatory to enjoin good and forbid evil.

A man who was set for travel asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him): Which type of Jihad is much rewarded? The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) told him that it is to enjoin an oppressive ruler to do good or to forbid him from doing evil. Jihad is not restricted to fighting the disbelievers; rather, it has levels. The type mentioned in this Hadīth is the highest level in terms of reward, because it makes one vulnerable to being killed or imprisoned because of the ruler's injustice, or because it is seldom that someone takes it upon himself to undertake this perilous task.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) entered the state of Ihrām in the Farewell Pilgrimage for both ‘Umrah and Hajj. He led his sacrificial animal and applied something to his hair that would hold it back from spreading because the period of his Ihrām would be long. Some of his Companions did the same, while some made Ihrām for ‘Umrah (in the months of Hajj) intending to perform Hajj thereafter, and most of them did not lead their sacrificial animals with them, while some of them did. When they arrived at Makkah and made Tawāf and Sa‘i, he ordered those who had not led their sacrificial animals from among those who were performing Hajj only or comibning Hajj and ‘Umrah without a break in between to cancel their Hajj and make it an ‘Umrah only and end their Ihrām. As for him and those who led their sacrificial animals, they remained in the state of Ihrām. Thereupon, his wife Hafsah asked him why people had ended their Ihrām while he had not. He replied: "Because I have applied to my hair that which would make it matted and marked my sacrificial animal and drove it, and this prevents me from ending my Ihrām until the sacrificial animal reaches its place, which is the day that ends Hajj, the Day of Slaughter."

The Companion Jarīr ibn' Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) reports that he was committed and made a covenant with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to adopt Tawhīd (monotheism), perform the five obligatory prayers every day and night, fulfilling their conditions, pillars, obligatory and Sunnah acts; observe the prescribed Zakah, which is an obligatory financial act of worship taken from the rich and given to those who deserve it from the poor and others; obey the rulers; and giving sincere advice every Muslim by being keen on bringing benefit and goodness to him and warding evil off him through words and acts.

The importance of prayer and Zakah and the fact that they are from the pillars of Islam.

The importance of counsel and mutual advice between Muslims to the extent that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) took a pledge from his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) on that.

This Hadīth clarifies the best time to offer the five daily prayers. The Zhuhr prayer: when the sun passes its zenith; this is the beginning of its time. However, if it is too hot in a way that affects the people praying, then it is better to delay the prayer until the temperature is not as severely hot, as proven by other evidence. The ‘Asr prayer: when the sun is still white and clear, when the shadow of everything is equal to it, after the shadow of the zenith. The Maghrib prayer: when the sun sets. The ‘Ishā' prayer: It depends on people. If they attend the congregational prayer at the beginning of its time, when the afterglow disappears, then they should pray. If they do not show up, then they should delay it to the time close to the first half of the night, which is the best time to offer it, as long as there is no hardship involved. As for the Fajr prayer: its time is when light starts to mix with darkness.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) took Mu‘ādh (may Allah be pleased with him) by the hand and said to him: By Allah, I do love you, and I advise you, O Mu‘ādh, never fail to say after each prayer: (O Allah, help me remember You) in every word and deed that brings me closer to an act of obedience; (thank You) for bestowing favors and warding off misfortunes; (and excellently worship You) by being fully sincere to Allah and following the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).

It is permissible to inform someone that you love him for the sake of Allah.

It is recommended to recite this supplication after every obligatory and voluntary prayer.

This brief supplication comprises the demands of this worldly life and the Hereafter.

Exhorting one another to the truth, mutual advice, and cooperation in goodness and righteousness are among the benefits of love for the sake of Allah.

At-Taybi said: Remembering Allah is an introduction to relief in the heart, thanking Him is a means of attaining blessings, and the required excellent manner in worship is to be free of whatever distracts one from Allah Almighty.

The great Companion Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) stated that he slept one night in the house of his maternal aunt, who is the Prophet's wife to learn about the Prophet's late-night prayer. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) got up and stood to pray at night, Ibn ‘Abbās joined him in prayer and stood on the Prophet's left side to follow him in prayer. Since the right side is the most honorable of the two sides and the proper position where the one who prays behind an Imām should stand, in case he is one person, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) took him by the head, turned him from his behind and made him stand on his right.

’Umm Qays bint Mihsan (may Allah be pleased with her) brought her son, who had not yet eaten solid food for being too young, to the Prophet (ﷺ). He (ﷺ) seated the boy on his lap, and the boy urinated on the Prophet's garment. Thereupon, the Prophet (ﷺ) asked for some water, sprinkled it over his garment, and did not wash it.

The noble character and great humility of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Encouragement to show good companionship, humility, and gentleness with children, and to comfort the hearts of adults by honoring their children, seating them on one's lap, and similar acts of kindness.

The urine of a male infant is impure, even if he has not yet eaten solid food out of desire for it.

The action of the Prophet (ﷺ) is called Nad'h (sprinkling), and it applies specifically to a male infant who has not yet begun eating solid food. As for a female infant, her urine must be washed, even if she is a small infant.

The excrement of a male infant who is nourished by his mother's milk must be washed, just like other impurities.

Washing requires something additional beyond merely letting the water reach the area.

It is preferable to hasten in purifying the place of impurity, both to quickly cleanse oneself from filth and to avoid forgetting it.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was in Al-Abtah in upper Makkah. Bilāl came out with the water that was left over from the ablution of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and people were seeking blessing from that water. Then Bilāl called the Adhān. Abu Juhayfah said that he kept watching Bilāl's mouth as he was turning to the right and left saying: “Come to prayer, come to success”, so the people could hear him, as these two sentences are intended to encourage them to come to the prayer. Then a short spear was fixed in the ground for the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to act as a Sutrah for him during his prayer. He performed two Rak‘ahs for the Zhuhr prayer and he continued to shorten the four-Rak‘ah prayers until he returned to Madīnah, because he was a traveler.

If a man sits between a woman's four limbs, i.e. her arms and legs, and he inserts his male organ into her vagina, then it is obligatory on both of them to take a ritual bath in order to remove the major ritual impurity even if no semen is discharged. Penetration on its own necessitates ritual bath.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that Tahārah (ritual purity) is one of the conditions for the validity of prayer. Hence, whoever wants to pray must make Wudū’ (ablution) if he has already nullified his Wudū’ by defecating, urinating, sleeping, etc.

The prayer offered by one who is in the state of ritual impurity is not accepted unless he purifies himself by making Ghusl (ritual bath) in case of major impurity and by performing Wudū’ in case of minor impurity.

Wudū’ means rinsing the mouth with water and spitting it out, then sniffing water into the nose and blowing it out, then washing the face three times, then washing the hands along with the elbows three times, then wiping over the whole head once, and finally washing the feet along with the ankles three times.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) warns against negligence in the performance of ablution and encourages us to perform it perfectly and completely. As the back of the foot (the heel bone) is normally somewhere that water does not reach, it leads to a deficiency in ablution and therefore in prayer, so the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs us that the heel bones, along with the one who is careless about including them in his Shariah-required purification, will be targeted by torment in the Hereafter.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) delayed the ‘Ishā' prayer until part of the night had passed and the women and children, who are likely unable to stay late at night, had gone to sleep. ‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) came to him and said: “Come to pray, for the women and children have slept.” The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) came out of his home and went to the mosque while his head was dripping with water from the ritual bath and he said: "Had it not been hard for my Ummah, I would have commanded them to perform that prayer at this hour." This indicates that it would have been better to delay ‘Ishā' prayer were it not for the hardship that would result from waiting for such a long time.

The polytheists kept the Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and his Companions too preoccupied to offer the ‘Asr prayer till sunset, as they were garrisoned to protect Madīnah against them. Consequently, the Messenger (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon) invoked Allah, the Almighty, against them, asking Him to fill their stomachs, houses, and graves with fire as a punishment for hurting him and his Companions and distracting them from offering the ‘Asr, which is the best prayer.

‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) mentions that the female Companions used to cover themselves with their garments and attend the Fajr prayer with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). They would then return to their homes after the prayer at the time when the darkness of the night mixed with the faint light of the morning, and the one looking at them would not recognize them because of the remaining darkness.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that Allah Almighty says in the Qudsi Hadīth: Every righteous deed offered by the son of Adam is multiplied by ten up to seven hundred times, except for fasting, which is for Me, as it does not involve ostentation, and I give reward for it. So, none but Me knows how great its reward is and how many times it is multiplied. Then he said: (Fasting is a shield), protection, shelter, and a fortified fort against the Fire because it is all about abstaining from desires and committing sins, and the Fire is surrounded with desires. (When it is the day when any of you is fasting, let him not engage in obscenity) at all through sexual intercourse and foreplay or through any obscene speech. (And let him not speak in a loud voice) by quarreling and shouting. (If anyone insults him or fights with him) in Ramadan, let him say: I am a fasting person; perhaps this will deter him. However, if he insists on real fighting, he should expel him with the least violent means first. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) swore by the One in Whose Hand that his soul is that the foul breath of the fasting person resulting from fasting is more pleasant than the smell of musk in the sight of Allah on the Day of Judgment and is a means of receiving a greater reward than that of the musk, which is recommended to be used on Fridays and during the Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) sessions. The fasting person will have two occasions to rejoice: when breaking his fast, he rejoices at breaking his fast that eliminates his hunger and thirst; and he rejoices at completing his fast and accomplishing his act of worship, at the alleviation from his act of worship to his Lord, and at the strength it provides him with for his future fasting. (And when he meets his Lord, he rejoices at his fast), i.e., at its recompense and reward.

The merit of fasting is that it protects the one who observes it from desires in this worldly life and from the punishment of the Fire in the Hereafter.

Abandoning obscene speech and idle talk, enduring people's offense patiently, and responding to their abuse with patience and kindness are among the manners of fasting.

When a fasting person or a worshipper rejoices for completing and finishing his act of worship, this does not diminish his reward in the Hereafter.

Ultimate happiness is achieved by meeting Allah Almighty when the patient and those who used to observe fast will be given their reward without measure.

Informing people of an act of obedience, in case of necessity and benefit, is not deemed ostentation when one says: "I am fasting."

The person whose fasting is perfect is he whose limbs abstain from sins, whose tongue abstains from lying, obscene speech, and words of falsehood, and whose stomach abstains from food and drink.

Emphasis on the prohibition of noise, quarreling, and shouting during the fast, as the non-fasting person is also prohibited from such things.

This Hadīth is part of what the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) narrates from his Lord, and it is called Qudsi or Divine Hadīth. Its wording and meaning are from Allah, yet it does not have the unique characteristics of the Qur'an, including reciting it as a form of worship, getting purified for it, presenting it as a challenge, its miraculousness, etc.

A man came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and said: O Messenger of Allah, what if a man comes to me wanting to take my money? He said: You are not required to submit to him and give him your money. He said: What if he fights with me? He said: You are permitted to fight him. He said: What if he kills me? He said: Then you would be a martyr. He said: What if I kill him? He said: He deserves to be punished in Hellfire on the Day of Judgment.

An-Nawawi said: Defending one's womenfolk is obligatory without disagreement. As for defending oneself to the point of killing, there is a difference of opinion in our school and others; whereas, defending one's wealth is permissible but not obligatory.

The Hadīth is evidence that knowledge precedes action, as this Companion asked the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) about what was required of him before acting.

One should follow a gradual approach in repelling an aggressor—by advising him or calling for help—before resorting to fighting him. But if it starts fighting, the aim should be to repel him, not to kill him.

The blood, wealth, and honor of a Muslim are inviolable.

An-Nawawi said: Know that martyrdom is of three categories. The first is the one killed in battle against the disbelievers due to one of the causes of the fighting. This person has the rulings of martyrs both in the Hereafter and in worldly terms, meaning he is not to be washed or prayed over. The second is considered a martyr in terms of reward only, not in worldly rulings—such as the one who dies of a stomach illness, the one who dies in a plague, the one who dies under a collapsed building, the one killed while defending his wealth, and others whom authentic Hadīths have referred to as martyrs. Such a person is washed and prayed over, yet he receives the reward of martyrs in the Hereafter, though not necessarily equal to the reward of the first category. The third is someone who, for example, stole from the war booty or committed similar acts, and for whom narrations have come denying him the title of martyr, even if he was killed in battle against the disbelievers. This person has the rulings of martyrs in the worldly sense—so he is not washed or prayed over—but he does not receive the full reward of martyrs in the Hereafter.

Salamah ibn al-Akwa‘ (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) passed some of his Companions who were shooting arrows together; competing to see who would win. He approved of what they were doing and even encouraged them by saying: "Practice archery, O progeny of Isma‘īl," urging them to continue practicing archery, as it is one of the favors of Allah, the Exalted, upon the progeny of Isma‘īl, meaning: the Arabs. He said to do so, because their forefather, Isma‘īl, the son of Ibrahīm (may peace be upon both of them), was an excellent and skilled archer.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) used to perform the night prayer, while ‘A'ishah would be asleep in front of him. According to another narration by Al-Bukhāri and Muslim, she said: “The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to perform the night prayer while I would be lying between him and the Qiblah, just as a coffin would be placed.” When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) finished his night prayer, and just before starting the Witr prayer, he would wake her up to pray Witr. A narration by Muslim reads: “When it was time for the Witr prayer, he would say: ‘Wake up, ‘A'ishah and pray Witr.'" A narration of Abu Dawūd reads: “When he wanted to perform the Witr prayer, he would wake her up, and she would perform it." So, the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) would let ‘A'ishah asleep at the beginning of the night. He would not wake her until he was done with his night prayer and only had the Witr to pray. He would wake her so that she would pray immediately and not oversleep and miss the Witr.

‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: I was sleeping beside the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), and I could not find him at night. I touched the place where he used to pray in the room with my hand and found him prostrating with his feet erect, and he was saying: (I seek refuge with) and appeal to (Your pleasure from Your wrath) over me or over my Ummah, (and) I seek refuge (with Your pardon) and Your abundant forgiveness (from Your punishment), (And I seek refuge with You from You) and with the attributes of Your beauty from the attributes of Your majesty, as none can grant protection from You except You, and there is no shelter and no refuge from Allah except in Allah. (I cannot enumerate praise of You), and I am incapable and cannot list or count it because of my inability to enumerate Your favor and benevolence in a way that befits You no matter how hard I try. (You are as You have praised Yourself) as it is You Who have praised Yourself in a way that befits You, so who could praise You duly?!

It is recommended to recite these supplications during the prostration.

Mirak said: One of the versions by An-Nasā’i reads: He used to say this supplication after finishing his prayer and going to bed.

It is recommended to praise Allah by His Attributes and supplicate Him by His Names which are established in the Qur’an and the Sunnah.

It denotes glorifying the Creator in Rukū‘ (bowing) and Sujūd ( prostration).

Seeking refuge with the attributes of Allah is permissible just as it is permissible to seek refuge with His essence.

Al-Khattābi said: This speech bears a subtle meaning, which is: He sought refuge with Allah to protect him from His wrath by His pleasure and from His punishment by His pardon, bearing in mind that "pleasure" and "wrath" are two opposites and the same applies to "pardon" and "punishment." However, upon mentioning what does not have an opposite, namely Allah Almighty, he sought refuge with none but Him from Him. This means: Seeking Allah's forgiveness for falling short of fulfilling His worship duly and praising Him. His statement: I cannot enumerate praise of You, i.e., I am incapable of doing so and cannot attain it.

The best type of charity one can give are these three things: the shade of a tent or canopy, a servant (as a gift or loan), or a young female camel that is ready for mating, whether this charity is given to those fighting in the cause of Allah or other people who are needy. Giving charity to the needy is also considered to be in the cause of Allah. Perhaps these things were specified because of people's need for them at that time, so the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) wished to encourage offering them. As to the current times, the people's need for these things is almost non-existent, or very limited in some places. This meaning is also found in the Hadīth reported by ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) where the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The people of a house without dates are hungry" [Muslim]. Sheikh Ibn Bāz (may Allah have mercy upon him) said: "This Hadīth is intended to mean the people who eat dates often, such as the people of Madīnah in his time (the time of the Prophet), and any people like them whose diet depends on dates."

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was asked what actions in the prayer were the best. They asked this for their eagerness to achieve the most amount of rewards. They meant which part of prayer e.g, bowing or prostration is the best? He answered that it was the long standing in the prayer.

A man came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) wishing to fight in the cause of Allah with him. He was completely covered in an iron armor, but had not yet entered Islam. He said: "O Messenger of Allah, do I fight in the cause of Allah and then enter Islam, or enter Islam then fight in the cause of Allah?" he said to him: "Embrace Islam, then fight in the cause of Allah." So, the man embraced Islam, then fought in the cause of Allah until he was killed. Thereupon, the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: "He did a little but was greatly rewarded", i.e. he did a little and was rewarded a lot in relation to the period he lived as a Muslim, as the time between the man's embracing of Islam and his death was a short one, yet he was rewarded in abundance. That is because fighting in the cause of Allah, Exalted, in order to raise high His Word is one of the most virtuous deeds and most tremendous in reward.

Hadīth explanation: The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stressed using the tooth-stick. He repeatedly advised his followers to use it at all times, as a recommended action and not an obligation, due to the many and great benefits it involves, the greatest of which is that it is pleasing to Allah, Glorified and Exalted, [as mentioned in the famous authentic Hadīth: “The tooth-stick cleanses the mouth and pleases the Lord.”

Mu‘āwiyah (may Allah be pleased with him) relates that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade people from being persistent in asking for something, noting that such persistence removes the blessing from the given thing. Then, the Prophet swore that if someone asked him for something in a persistent manner and he gave it to him reluctantly, that thing would be bereft of blessing due to the persistent asking.

Horses are a source of goodness for the believer until the Day of Resurrection. There is a reward for preparing steeds of war to fight in the cause of Allah, and this a deferred reward that will be realized in the Hereafter. And there is an immediate reward which is the spoils of war that the warrior earns from the possessions of the enemy.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs us that cleaning our teeth with a stick from the Arak tree and the like purifies the mouth from dirt and foul smells. Also, it is one of the means for winning Allah's pleasure, for its use constitutes obedience to Allah and observance of His command, and it brings about cleanliness which Allah Almighty likes.

This points out the merit of using the tooth stick. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged his Ummah to use it often.

When cleaning your teeth with a stick, it is better to use a stick from the Arak tree. A toothbrush and toothpaste can be used instead of a stick.

Martyrdom expiates all sins, the minor and the major thereof, except for the debt. Martyrdom does not expiate the debt, and that is due to the greatness of the rights of people, especially those related to properties, which indeed, are the dearest to them. The same applies to anything pertaining to people's rights; such as theft, usurpation, and treachery. Fighting in the cause of Allah, martyrdom, and other acts of righteousness do not expiate transgression against people's rights, rather, they only expiate neglect of the rights of Allah, the Exalted.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs us that the five prayers prescribed to be performed during the day and night, the Friday prayer every week, and the fasting of the month of Ramadan every year expiate minor sins committed between them, provided that major sins are avoided. As for major sins like adultery and alcoholic drinking, these can only be expiated by repentance.

Some sins are minor and some are major.

The expiation of minor sins is contingent upon the avoidance of major ones.

Major sins are sins for which a legal punishment is prescribed in this world, a warning is issued with regard to the Hereafter by punishment or Allah's wrath, or their perpetrators are cursed, such as adultery and drinking alcohol.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), while delivering a sermon from the pulpit, mentioned charity and refraining from begging; then he said: The upper hand—the one that gives and spends—is better and more beloved to Allah than the lower hand—the one that asks.

It highlights the virtue of giving and spending in good causes and the dispraise of begging.

It encourages refraining from asking others and being self-sufficient and urges the pursuit of noble matters while avoiding lowly ones, for Allah loves lofty aspirations.

There are four types of hands in terms of virtue, ranked as follows: the highest is the giving hand, followed by the one that refrains from taking, then the one that receives without asking, and the lowest of them is the begging hand.

In this Hadīth, Maymūnah bint al-Hārith (may Allah be pleased with her) freed a slave-girl of hers, because of her knowledge of the virtue of freeing slaves for the sake of Allah. She did this without informing or consulting the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him). When it was the day when the Prophet would stay at her house overnight, she told him what she had done. He did not blame her for freeing the slave without first consulting him, but he only informed her that had she given that girl to her maternal uncles, she would have received a greater reward. In other words, he approved of and praised what she did, but told her that had she given it to her uncles from Banu Hilāl, it would have been better and she would have earned a greater reward due to the virtue of giving charity to one's relatives and maintaining good ties with them.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had borrowed a young camel from a man, so the man came to him demanding the repayment of this debt. The man made his demand in a very rude manner that vexed the Companions of the Prophet to the extent that they wanted to hit him because of his rudeness and harshness with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). However, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Let him say whatever he wants and do not harm him in any way, for the one who has a right is entitled to demand his debtor to repay his debt and the like, yet he has to do so within the limits of courtesy. As for cursing, slandering, and insulting, they are not among the manners of the Muslims. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered some of the Companions to give the man a camel of the same age as his. They came back and said: We only found a camel that is older than his (and, thus, of more value). So he said: Give him a camel that is older than his camel, for indeed the best of you in dealing with people and the best in terms of reward are those who fulfill their obligations in the best of ways, whether it is the settlement of a debt or otherwise.

It was from the practice of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to start with the Siwāk upon entering his house, whether at night or during the day.

It is generally permissible to use the Siwāk at all times, but this is even more confirmed on the occasions recommended by the Legislator, including the following: upon entering the house, when praying, when performing ablution, after waking up from sleep, and when having a foul breath.

Showing how keen the Tābi‘is were to ask about the Prophet's states and the ways he adopted to follow his example.

Learning knowledge from those who are qualified and who know more knowledge, as here ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) was asked about the state of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) upon entering the house.

It shows how the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) treated his family kindly as he used to clean his mouth upon entering.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked his Companions which of them loved the wealth of their heirs, which they would inherit from them after their death, more than the wealth they own in their lifetime. The Companions replied that there was none among them who did not love his own wealth, which was in his possession and over which he had absolute control, more, because with the wealth that he possessed can fulfill his desires and aspirations. The Prophet then told them that a person's own wealth is that which he spends during his lifetime on righteous deeds, such as Hajj; an endowment fund; building a school, a mosque, or a hospital; or spending on himself and his family. This indeed is his real wealth, which he will find benefiting him on the Day of Resurrection. As for what he saves during his lifetime and withholds from spending for the sake of Allah, this wealth belongs to his heirs and he has no share in it. There is another Hadīth with a similar meaning that Imām Muslim narrated on the authority of ‘Abdullāh ibn Ash-Shikhkhīr (may Allah be pleased with him). He said: “I went to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and he was reciting: {Competition in increase of [world benefits] diverted you} [Sūrat At-Takāthur: 1]. Then he said: "The son of Adam says: 'My wealth, my wealth.' Do you, son of Adam, own anything of your wealth except what you eat and consume, or what you wear and wear out, or what you give in charity...?" This Hadīth does not mean that one should spend all his money for the sake of Allah and leave his family poor, to beg from other people. What is meant is that a person, in as much as he strives to save money for his heirs after him, should also strive to earn rewards that would benefit him in the Hereafter, by spending from the surplus he has after providing for his wife, children, and parents. Spending on them is obligatory on him, if he did not do so, he would be sinful. The proof for this is the following Hadīth reported by Abu Umāmah (may Allah be pleased with him): “The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: ‘O son of Adam, if you spend the surplus, it is good for you; and if you withhold it, it is evil for you.'" [Muslim]

The Hadīth indicates the recommendation to delay the Witr prayer until the last part of the night. However, the one who delays his Witr prayer to the last part of the night should be cautious to perform it before dawn. The time for voluntary night prayer ends with the break of dawn, so, if dawn broke before he prays Witr, then he misses the virtue of this prayer.

Three types of people will have their reward doubled on the Day of Judgment: 1. A man from the People of the Book; i.e. a Jew or a Christian, who believed in his Prophet, Mūsa or ‘Īsa (peace be upon them), before Prophet Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was sent and before his call reached him. Then when Prophet Muhammad was sent and his call to Islam reached him, he believed in him. Such a person will receive two rewards; one for his belief in his messenger who was sent to him first, and the second for his belief in Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). 2. A slave who worships Allah, the Almighty, and carries out the duties that his master assigns to him in the best manner will receive two rewards. 3. A man who had a female slave, and he raised her well and taught her the matters of her religion, the lawful and the unlawful thereof, then he freed her and married her. He will receive two rewards; one for teaching her and then freeing her, and the second for his kindness to her after freeing her by marrying her and thus sufficing her from need and helping her preserve her chastity.

"A man from among those who were before you was called to account", i.e. a man from the previous nations was held accountable by Allah for the actions he had done. "No good deeds were found in his record", i.e. he had done no righteous deeds that bring one closer to Allah, the Almighty. "Except that he, being a rich man, used to enter into transactions with people", i.e. he used to conduct business transactions with them and give them loans. "And used to command his servants to show leniency towards those who were insolvent", i.e. he ordered his servants to be tolerant with those who cannot pay back their debts by giving them respite or by reducing their debt. "Allah, the Exalted, said: We are more entitled to this (leniency) than him. Pardon him", i.e. Allah forgave him as a reward for his kind treatment of people and his gentleness and leniency with them.

Hadīth explanation: The tribe of Banu Salimah wanted to move from their neighborhood, which was far from the mosque, to a place closer to the mosque. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) disliked that a part of Madīnah be depopulated (as stated in Al-Bukhāri's version of the Hadīth). He rather wished that Madīnah be expanded so that the hypocrites and polytheists see the increasing number of Muslims. He then asked them: "I heard that you all wish to move closer to the mosque?" They replied in the affirmative, so he said to them twice: "Stay in your neighborhood; your footsteps (to the mosque) are recorded for you." He also clarified that for every step they take to the mosque, they will receive a reward or one higher rank. In a relevant report, Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "The ones with the most reward amongst you are the ones who live farthest away (from the mosque)." He was asked: "Why is that, O Abu Hurayrah?" He answered: "Because of the many steps (taken to the mosque)." [Narrated by Mālik in al-Muwatta’, no. 33] The farther the house is from the mosque, the more chances of reward one can receive and the more of one’s sins will be erased. Such reward can be realized if one makes ablution at home, perfecting his ablution, then walks to the mosque, not rides, whether it is a short or a long distance. For every step he takes, two things are written for him: he is raised one rank and one sin is erased from his record of deeds. One of the noble Companions reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "If one of you makes ablution in the best manner, then goes out for the prayer, every time he lifts his right foot, Allah records one good deed for him, and every time he puts down his left foot, Allah erases one sin from his record of bad deeds. So live near or live far" [Abu Dāwud; classified as Sahīh by Al-Albāni]. In another Hadīth, Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "My Lord came to me tonight in the best image - I think he meant in his sleep - and He said to me: 'O Muhammad, do you know what the Higher Assembly (in the heavens) argue about?' I said: 'Yes, they argue about expiation for sins and the raising of ranks.' He asked: 'And what are the expiation of sins and the raising of ranks?' I said: 'Staying in the mosque after the prayers, walking on foot to the congregational prayers, and making ablution when it is difficult.'" [Ahmad; classified as Sahīh by Al-Albāni] This Hadīth indicates that receiving higher ranks is realized by the following: 1. Going to the mosque in the state of ablution. 2. Intending to go to the mosque to receive reward; in accordance with the Hadīth: "Actions are rewarded by intentions, and every person will be rewarded for what he intended." [Al-Bukhāri and Muslim] 3. Leaving one's home with the sole intention of going to the mosque. 4. Walking on foot, not riding, except for someone who has a valid excuse. If a person has a valid excuse, then he may go by car. One full rotation of the car wheel is equivalent to one footstep, since it resembles lifting the foot off the ground then putting it down again. This is yet another benefit of walking to mosques, that every time one goes and returns, his footsteps are rewarded.

It was mentioned before the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) about a man who slept until morning and sunrise and did not get up to perform the obligatory prayer. Thereupon, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: He is a man in whose ear the devil urinated.

Abandoning the night prayer is disliked and the devil is the cause behind that.

Be cautious of the devil who lies in wait for man on every route to prevent him from obeying Allah Almighty.

Ibn Hajar said: His statement: (And did not get up to perform the prayer) refers either to prayer in general or to the covenant, and it means the night prayer or the obligatory prayer.

At-Tībi said: He specifically mentioned the ears, even though the eyes would have been more appropriate in the context of sleep, to indicate the heaviness of sleep. Ears are more associated with attention. He also mentioned urine because it goes easily and quickly into cavities and veins, thereby afflicting the whole body with laziness.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) says a man or a woman deserves Allah's mercy when wakes up at night to pray and wakes up their spouse to pray as well. If one's spouse refuses to wake up because of heavy sleep or laziness, one might sprinkle little water on their face.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs his Companions that lands will be opened for them without fighting, so none of them should fail to learn how to shoot arrows, because it is the most appropriate thing that Muslims can play with, so long as doing this does not entail neglecting a due right. This is because shooting arrows is one of the things that aid them in fighting in the cause of Allah, which is one of the most excellent objectives and most sublime goals. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used the expression 'play' because souls are naturally disposed to like it, so this was taken into account. However, the greater aim for learning archery is to prepare oneself for fighting in the cause of Allah, the Exalted, not to merely play with arrows.

A man from the companions of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was walking through a mountain pass and came across an area that had a small spring of fresh water, which he liked so much. He wanted to seclude himself from the people and live in that place to worship Allah and drink from that fresh water. Nevertheless, he remarked that he would not do this until he would seek the permission of Allah's Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). So, he mentioned that to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who forbade him to do so, because fighting in the cause of Allah was due upon him, so withdrawing from the people for optional worship was regarded as a sin, because it entailed abandoning an obligatory act. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The status of one of you who fights in Allah's cause is better then praying in his house for seventy years." Meaning: Fighting in Allah's cause is better than devoting oneself to prayer for seventy years. This is because the benefit of fighting in Allah's cause extends to all Muslims, while the benefit of prayer is restricted to the individual. "Do you not wish that Allah forgives you and admits you into Paradise?" Meaning: If you like that Allah forgives you and admits you into Paradise, then you have to fight in Allah's cause, with the intention of attaining the reward and while showing patience. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) highlighted the virtue of fighting in Allah's cause by saying: "Whoever fights in Allah's cause for a period of time equal to that between two milkings of a she-camel, then he will surely enter Paradise." Meaning: whoever participates in fighting in the cause of Allah, in order to make Allah's religion superior, even if it is a short period of time, he is guaranteed Paradise.

In this narration, ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) informs us that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that there are ten practices that are part of "Fitrah" or sound human nature. "Fitrah" is the natural disposition upon which Allah, the Almighty, created people. What is intended is the sound "Fitrah" because the "Fitrah" of some people deviates from soundness as a result of the way they are raised. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Every newborn is born with Fitrah, and then his parents either turn him into a Jew or a Christian or a Zoroastrian.” The first act of Fitrah is to trim the mustache or to shave it to the point where the upper lip becomes visible, for the sake of hygiene. When the mustache is too long it comes into contact with the food and drink that the person consumes. An overgrown mustache is an ugly and abhorrent sight for many people. A Muslim man should regularly trim or clip his mustache and not let it grow for more than forty days. Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: A time limit was set for us regarding trimming the mustache, clipping the nails and plucking the pubic hair; that we do not leave that for more than forty nights. The second act of Fitrah is letting the beard grow. The beard is the hair that grows on the chin and jawbones. “Letting it grow” meanings not to shave or shorten it at all. The word "i‘fā’" which is used in the Hadīth in relation to the beard originally means making something plentiful and large. The derivative "‘afaw" is used in the Qur'an to mean increase in the verse: {until they increased and prospered} [Sūrat al-A‘rāf: 95]. There are many Hadīths where the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered the Muslims to grow their beards. He used three different words to command his followers to let their beards grow: "waffiru", "arkhu", and "a‘foo". All three imperatives indicate the command to keep it grown and refrain from taking from it. Accordingly it is impermissible for the Muslim man to shave his beard under any circumstances. Shaving the beard is against the practice of the Prophet, disobedience to his command, and imitation of the non-believers. The third act of Fitrah is to use the tooth-stick. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said about it: "It cleanses the mouth and pleases the Lord." It is recommended to use it at all times, and its use is especially emphasized before ablution, before prayer, after waking up from sleep, when someone’s breath becomes foul, and when the teeth become yellow. The fourth act of Fitrah is rinsing the nose, which literally means sniffing the water (i.e. and then blowing it out). It cleans the nose by removing from inside it what may cause harm. This should be done both in wudu and outside of wudu. Any time a person feels that he needs to clean his nose, he should rinse it with water (by sniffing water in and blowing it out). The frequency of this cleansing may differ from person to person because some may only need to do it in ablution while others may need to do it more frequently. The fifth act of Fitrah is clipping the nails, both finger and toe nails. They should not be left without clipping for more than forty days, based on the narration of Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) mentioned above. And in a narration by Abu Dawūd: "The Messenger of Allah timed for us the shaving the pubes and clipping the nails." The sixth act of Fitrah is washing the finger joints on the outside and inside of the hand. Dirt tends to accumulate in them because they are creased and wrinkled and hence water may not clean them thoroughly when the hands are washed superficially. If the joints of one hand are rubbed by the other hand, water will reach into the areas and clean them thoroughly. Similar to the finger joints is any place on the body where dirt tends to accumulate with or without sweat, such as the ear canal, the inner thighs, and anywhere else that water may not thoroughly reach. The seventh act is plucking armpit hair. The armpits are an area where sweat and dirt gather and cause a stench. They should not be left unshaven for more than forty days, based on the aforementioned narration of Anas (may Allah be pleased with him). It is better to pluck the armpit hair rather than shave it if one is able to do so because that removes the whole hair and weakens the roots and therefore eventually hinders hair growth in that area, which is recommended in the Shariah. If plucking is overly difficult it is acceptable to shave it or to use depilatory (hair removing) creams because the objective is to clean the area which is achieved by shaving or using such creams. The eighth act of Fitrah is shaving the pubic hair, which is the coarse hair that grows around the frontal genitals of both men and women. It is part of sound and wholesome human nature to remove this hair, whether by shaving, plucking, trimming, or using modern products. The objective is to keep that area clean using any available means. It is important not to let the pubic hair grow for more than forty days, based on the above mentioned narration of Anas. The ninth act of Fitrah mentioned in the Hadīth is "intiqās al-mā’", which was interpreted to mean "istinjā’" or washing one's genitals with water after using the lavatory. This interpretation is corroborated by the narration of Abu Dawūd and Ibn Mājah where ‘Ammar ibn Yāsir (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "From the acts of Fitrah are: rinsing the mouth, sniffing water into the nose … and intidāh (i.e. sprinkling water over the genitals)." Istinjā’ is defined as removing any residue of what comes out of the front and back passages of human excretion, (urine and stool, etc.) with a pure substance such as water, stone, cloth, tissue paper, and similar things by which the filth can be removed. Istinjā’ is mandatory before one prays because removal of impurities is a condition for the validity of prayer. The narrator was doubtful what the tenth act of Fitrah was, and said: "...and I have forgotten the tenth, except if it was rinsing the mouth." This is doubt about what he heard from the narrator who preceded him in the chain of narration. The mouth and nose both receive much pollutants and thus it is part of sound nature to clean them regularly. In brief, all of these acts clean, cleanse and perfect the outside of a person's body, and keep him safe from harmful elements and bad hygiene.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs about the devil and his struggle with the person who wants to get up to offer the voluntary night prayer or the Fajr prayer. When the believer goes to sleep, the devil ties three knots at his Qāfiyah, i.e., the back of his head. One knot is undone when the believer wakes up and remembers Allah Almighty without responding to the devil's whisperings. Another knot is undone when he performs ablution. Then the third knot is undone when he rises and prays, and he gets up in the morning active and in a good mood, given his happiness that Allah has guided him to obedience and rejoicing in the reward and forgiveness that Allah has promised him, along with getting rid of the devil's knots and his discouragement. Otherwise, he wakes up in the morning low-spirited, gloomy, and too indolent to offer good and righteous deeds because he is chained with the devil's shackles and far from getting close to the Most Compassionate.

The devil makes constant endeavors in every way to prevent one from obeying Allah Almighty, and nothing can save man from the devil except seeking help from Allah Almighty and utilizing the means of precaution and protection.

Remembering Allah Almighty and worshiping Him provide the soul with energy and bring forth relief in the heart. They dispel laziness and indolence and alleviate distress and hatred because they ward off the devil, who whispers all these things.

The believer feels happy when Allah Almighty guides him to His obedience and feels depressed when he fails to reach the degrees of excellence and perfection.

Heedlessness and reluctance from observing acts of obedience are from the devil's work and an attempt to make man's deeds appealing to him.

These three things—remembering Allah, performing ablution, and praying—drive the devil away.

The devil ties knots particularly at the back of the head because it is the center of powers and their domain of control. Hence, if he ties the knots in that place, he becomes capable of controlling man's spirit and casting sleep on him.

Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalāni said: Mentioning the night in his statement: "Ahead of you is a long night," apparently indicates that this is peculiar to night sleep.

Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalāni said: There is no particular or irreplaceable form of Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) that should be recited here; rather, anything that could be referred to as Dhikr of Allah would be sufficient, including reciting the Qur’an, reading the Prophet's Hadīths, and seeking religious knowledge. However, the best way to remember Allah is clear in the Prophet's statement: Whoever wakes up disturbed during the night and says: "La ilāha illallāh wahdahu la sharīka lah, lahu al-mulku wa lahu al-hamdu wa huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadīr. Al-hamdulillāh wa subhānallāh wa la ilāha illallāh wallāhu akbar wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billāh (None has the right to be worshiped except Allah alone, and He has no partners. To Him belongs sovereignty, and to Him belongs praise, and He is Omnipotent over everything. All praise is due to Allah, glory be to Allah; there is no god but Allah; Allah is the Greatest, and there is no power nor strength except with Allah)", then says: "Allāhumma ighfirli (O Allah, forgive me)" or supplicates, his supplication will be answered, and if he performs ablution, his prayer will be accepted. [Narrated by Al-Bukhāri]

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was asked about the deed that leads to Paradise or about the deeds that Allah loves most. He (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to the questioner: Adhere to prostration frequently during the prayer, for you do not make a single prostration to Allah except that Allah raises you one degree therewith and forgives one of your sins therewith.

Encouraging Muslims to pay good attention to prayer, both obligatory and voluntary, as it includes prostration.

It demonstrates the Companions' good understanding of the religion and their awareness of the fact that Paradise cannot be attained except through Allah's mercy first, then through good deeds.

Prostration during the prayer is among the greatest means of raising ranks and forgiving sins.

If someone is offering voluntary night prayer, and it becomes hard for him to recite the Qur'an because of drowsiness, until he does not understand what he is saying: then let him lie down until his drowsiness goes away, so that he would not alter or change the words of Allah, for perhaps he might fall into prohibition by reversing its meanings or altering its words, or he might make supplications against himself. In Al-Bukhāri, Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "If one of you becomes drowsy during prayer, then let him sleep until he knows what he is reading."

Suwayd ibn Qays and Makhramah al-‘Abdi (may Allah be pleased with him) brought some garments from a town called Hajar to sell them in Madīnah. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon them) went to buy lower garments from them. He bargained with them over the price (An-Nasā’i's narration says: "and he bought lower garments from us", without mentioning the bargaining). In the market, there was a man who had scales to weigh goods in return for a fee. As he was weighing the goods, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to him: "Weigh, and add some more." He ordered the man to add some more to the side of the scales that held the merchandise so that it would be heavier than the other. This does not mean that the difference in weight would be great and might harm the seller. There should be a slight difference so that the buyer can be certain (and clearly see) that he has taken his full right without any deficiency.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that one of the gates of Paradise is called Ar-Rayyān, through which those who fast will enter on the Day of Judgment. No one else will enter through it. A call will be made: Where are those who fast? They will rise and enter, and no one else will be allowed to pass through it. Once the last of them has entered, it will be closed, and no one will enter through it thereafter.

An-Nawawi said: This Hadīth denotes the merit of fasting and the honor bestowed upon those who fast.

Allah has designated a special gate among the eight gates of Paradise for those who fast, which will be closed after they enter.

Clarifying the fact that Paradise has gates.

As-Sindi said: His statement (where are those who fast) refers to those who frequently observe fasting, like the just person and the oppressor; it is said for those who are accustomed to this, not for someone who does so only once.

(Ar-Rayyān) means "the one that quenches thirst," because those who fast often experience thirst, especially during the long, hot days of the summer. So as a reward for them, this gate is called by something unique to them, the Gate of Ar-Rayyān. It is also said that Ar-Rayyān is derived from the form "fa‘lān", indicating abundance in quenching, the opposite of thirst. It was named to reward those who endure thirst and hunger during fasting.

Barīrah's husband was a slave named Mugīth, and Barīrah used to serve ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) before she purchased her, then after ‘Ā’ishah freed her from slavery, she was given the choice whether to stay married to Mugīth or to separate from him (because she had become a free woman while he was still a slave). Barīrah chose to leave him. After this separation, Mugīth used to chase her through the roads of Madīnah crying with his tears flowing down his beard, perchance she would reconsider and go back to him. This was because of his extreme love for her. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to Barīrah: "If you would go back to him, you will receive reward (from Allah) for it." She said: "O Messenger of Allah, are you ordering me to go back to him?" He said: "I am only interceding on his behalf." So she said: "I have no desire or need to go back to him."

‘Abdullāh ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) relates that they were at the battle of Hunayn, which is the battle of At-Tā’if that took place after the Conquest of Makkah. The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) fought them, and gained from them a large amount of booty i.e, camels, sheep, dirhams, and dinars. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) went to Al-Ji‘rānah, which is a place located at the farthest end of the Sacred Precincts of Makkah to the direction of At-Tā’if, and divided the booty between those who participated in this battle. He gave Al-Aqra‘ ibn Hābis 100 camels, and gave ‘Uyaynah ibn Hisn 100 camels. He also gave to some of the nobles among the Arabs in order to attract their hearts towards Islam, because if those people embrace Islam due to the gifts and wealth they received, their followers would embrace Islam, and this would give more strength and might to Islam. As for those who were strong in faith, he left them, trusting the faith that they had. After seeing the attitude of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) in dividing the booty among the heads of tribes and nobles, and leaving some others (without giving them), a man said: "By Allah! This is a distribution in which justice is not observed, and it is not intended for pleasing Allah." When Ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) heard this statement, he rushed towards the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and swore before that if he heard something like that, he would inform him. When Ibn Mas‘ūd informed the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) of the man's statement, his anger intensified and his face changed in color until it was like a pure red dye. Then he said: "Who will observe justice if Allah and His Messenger do not?"; disapproving of the man's statement. Then he said: "May Allah have mercy upon Mūsa; he was hurt more than this but he remained patient.'' When Ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) saw the Prophet's condition (i.e. his anger), he said: "If I hear any kind of improper statement from those people, I will not inform the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) of it, because of what I saw of his intense anger, as long as it does not cause any harm to Islam or the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him)."

Upon reaching the last ten nights of Ramadan, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to exert himself in performing acts of worship and acts of obedience. He used to exaggerate in offering various types of good deeds, different forms of acts of benevolence, and acts of worship more than he would offer at any other time, given the greatness and merit of such nights and seeking the Night of Decree.

Encouraging the frequent practice of benevolence and various forms of acts of obedience generally during the month of Ramadan and particularly during its last ten nights.

The last ten nights of Ramadan start from the twenty-first night until the end of the month.

It is recommended to take advantage of the honorable occasions by engaging in acts of obedience.

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) tells that she used to prepare for the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) his tooth-stick and the water with which he would make ablution at night. Then Allah, Blessed and Exalted, would wake him from his sleep at any time of the night. When he woke up, he would begin with cleaning his teeth with the tooth-stick in order to remove the odor that affects the mouth because of sleep. Then he would make ablution for prayer, then offer voluntary night prayer.

The meaning of the Hadīth: Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) informs about the condition of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) regarding fasting and praying at night. He said that he used to leave fasting in a certain month until a person would think that he has not fasted any day of that month; for not fasting for many days. Conversely, he used to fast in a certain month so many days that one would think that he has not broken his fast at all in that month; for his consistent fasting for many days. Likewise, he has not committed himself to pray at a certain time at night. Rather, he used to pray at the beginning of the night sometimes, other times in the middle, and other at the last part of it; such that if you wished to see him praying at night, you would be able to. And if you wished to see him sleeping at night, you would be able to as well. Therefore, his deeds were moderate between excess and negligence.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) pointed out in this Hadīth that envy is of different types. There is a type that is blameworthy and unlawful under Shariah; that is when a person wishes for the removal of some blessing from his brother. The permissible type of envy is when one sees someone enjoying a worldly blessing and he hopes to have the same for himself. There is also a praiseworthy type of envy which is recommended under Shariah. It is when one sees someone enjoying a religious blessing and wishes to have the same thing for oneself. This is what the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) intended by his statement: "There should be no envy except in two (cases)". This means that envy has different types, and its ruling differs according to its type. It is not praiseworthy and recommended by Shariah except in two cases: 1. When there is a wealthy righteous man whom Allah has given lawful wealth, which he spends in the cause of Allah, the Almighty. So one hopes to be like him, and envies him, the kind of envy that is free from malice, for that blessing. 2. When there is a knowledgeable man whom Allah has given beneficial knowledge which he acts upon, teaches to others, and judges between the people according to. So, he wishes to be like him.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stated that the person who weeps out of fear of Allah will not enter the Hellfire, because fear of Allah usually arises from obedience to Him and refraining from sins. He used the metaphor "until milk returns into the udders" to indicate impossibility. Similarly, the dust raised when someone is fighting for the sake of Allah will prevent him from being exposed to the smoke of the Hellfire, as they (that dust and that smoke) are two opposites, just as the worldly life and the Hereafter are two opposites.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) explained that a person should do any kind of work—even if it means taking a rope, collecting firewood, carrying it on his back, and selling it—so that he can eat from it, give in charity from it, and remain independent of others, protecting his dignity from the humiliation of begging. This is better for him than asking people—whether they give to him or not—because begging brings disgrace, while the believer is honorable and not humiliated.

An exhortation to avoid begging and to uphold one's dignity by refraining from it.

Encouragement to work to earn a living, even if the job is simple or viewed as lowly in the eyes of people.

Islam combats begging and idleness; therefore, it makes striving and working obligatory, even if the work is difficult, such as gathering firewood.

Begging is not permissible for one who is able to work and earn a living.

Asking the ruler is permissible in cases of genuine need, as Allah Almighty says: {Nor is there any blame on those who came to you asking you for mounts to take them along, and you said, “I can find no mounts for you;” they turned away with their eyes overflowing with tears out of grief that they had nothing to spend.} [Surat at-Tawbah: 92]

Whoever is compelled by necessity to ask and is unable to earn through work or even gather firewood is permitted to ask—but without insistence or persistence, as Allah Almighty says: {They do not ask people importunately.} [Surat al-Baqarah: 273]

An-Nawawi said: It contains encouragement to give in charity, to eat from what one earns with his own hands, and to seek a livelihood through lawful means.

The basic rule states that lying is unlawful, for the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Beware of telling lies, for lying leads to wrongdoing and wrongdoing leads to hellfire. A man will keep telling lies and strive to tell lies until he is recorded with Allah as a liar” [Muslim]. However, there are three exceptions where lying is permissible: Lying for the sake of reconciliation between people; lying during war; and lying in what a man says to his wife. The Sunnah has made lying in these three cases permissible, for what it contains of benefits without resulting in any harm, as following: 1. Lying for the sake of reconciliation between two people or two tribes disputing with each other. Here, one conveys good words and narrates to one of the disputing parties that the other praised him and spoke well of him and mentioned him with good attributes. He in fact did not hear so, however, his aim is to bring them together and to remove the aversion and estrangement between them. This is permissible and there is no harm in it as long as one's aim is reconciliation and removing enmity and hatred from the hearts. 2. Lying during war: it is to display strength and say things to empower his companions, and to increase their morale, in order to defeat the enemies. It also includes saying that the Muslim army is big in number and has received strong back up, or saying: Look behind you! So-and-so has come from behind you to strike you! This is also permissible, due to what it contains of enormous benefit for Islam and the Muslims. 3. Lying between spouses: i.e. husband says to his wife "You are the most beloved person to me, and I desire only you” and similar words that induce harmony and love between them; and she says the same. This is permissible as well, due to what it contains of mutual benefits. It is noteworthy that lying between the spouses is limited to what will bring or increase harmony and love between them. It is not permissible in everything. An-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy upon him) said: “Regarding man's lying to his wife and vice versa, it is intended to be a means of displaying love and devotion to one another and similar things. However deception, for the sake of evading duties or taking what is not his or her right, this is unlawful according to the scholars' consensus” [Sharh Muslim by An-Nawawi]. Al-Hafizh Ibn Hajar (may Allah have mercy upon him) said: “They (scholars) agreed that the permissible lying between a wife and a husband is in those things which do not entail the negligence of the duties of any of them or the acquisition of rights that they are not entitled to.”

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) mentions that the one who perfectly maintains the ties of kinship and shows kindness to his relatives is not that person who repays kindness with kindness, but the one who truly and perfectly upholds kinship ties is the one with whom if the ties of kinship are severed, he maintains them; and if they do wrong to him, he responds to them with goodness.

Maintaining kinship ties in the Shariah is when you maintain the ties with those who sever them, forgive those who do wrong to you, and give to those who refuse to give to you; it is not about reciprocating goodness with goodness.

Ties with one's relatives are maintained by showing as much good to them as possible, in the form of money, supplication, commanding the right and forbidding the wrong, and so on, and by averting evil from them to the best of one's ability.

No one would desire to depart from Paradise after entering it and to return back to the life of this world even if he were given the whole earth with everything that it contains of treasures, luxuries, pleasures, huge palaces, and beautiful gardens, with the exception of the martyr. The martyr would love to return to this world ten more times so that each time he would fight in the cause of Allah and be martyred ten times instead of just once on account of the great honor and reward and bountiful blessings that are bestowed on him as a martyr after his death.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave glad tidings that whoever gets his feet covered with dust while striving in the cause of Allah, the Fire will not touch him.

It bears glad tidings for the one who makes Jihad in the cause of Allah that he will be saved from Hellfire.

He mentioned the feet in particular, although dust covers the whole body because most of those who made Jihad at that time were fighting on foot, and so the feet got covered with dust in all cases.

Ibn Hajar said: If the feet are forbidden from the Fire for merely being touched by dust, then how about the one who worked hard and exerted himself and did his best?!

Explanation: When a person is martyred in the cause of Allah, what he suffers from the agony or pain of death is similar to the pain that we feel from the sting an ant. This means that the martyr does not suffer the throes and stupors of death the way other people do; rather, the greatest pain he suffers and feels at the time of his death is similar to the quick pain that we feel from the bite of an ant. This is part of the favor of Allah, the Almighty, upon the martyr. He sacrificed his life for the sake of Allah, considering it a small price to pay, and thus Allah alleviated the pain of death from him.

In both narrations of this Hadīth, the Companions asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) about the deeds that would yield the same reward of going out for Jihad in the cause of Allah. He replied: “You cannot bear it.” He meant that they could not do the deeds that would equal Jihad. When they repeated the question twice or thrice, he kept telling them that they are unable to do it. Then, he clarified to them that the only thing that would equal the reward of Jihad is that they keep performing prayers day and night and reciting the Qur'an continually, which is undoubtedly beyond the ability of humans. In the version narrated by Al-Bukhāri, a man from the Companions of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked him to guide him to a deed that would equal the prestigious status of Jihad and the grand reward it entails, to which the Prophet replied: “I do not find one.” He meant that he could not find any deed that had the same merit of Jihad. Another Hadīth narrated by Al-Bukhāri and Muslim confirms this meaning: “Verily, setting out in the early morning or evening for the sake of Allah is better than this whole world with all its pleasures.” Then, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked the man the following question: When the Mujāhid goes out for Jihad, can you go into your place of prayer and remain therein pray incessantly along with fasting without breaking your fast? If you can do this, then this is the only thing that is equivalent to Jihad (in reward). At that point, the man said: “Who can do that?” He meant that it is undoubtedly beyond the human ability to keep praying without stopping and fasting without eating.

Explanation of the Hadīth: Allah promised in the Qur'an: {And whatever you spend of good - it will be fully repaid to you} [Sūrat al-Baqarah: 272]. So, anyone dedicates a horse to fighting in the cause of Allah, seeking His reward and pleasure and believing in His promise, Allah will definitely reward such a person for everything that the horse eats, drinks, or excretes from urine and dung. Allah will place all that in the scale of his good deeds on the Day of Judgment. In a lengthy Hadīth reported by Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Horses are kept for one of three purposes; for some people they are a source of sin, for some others they are a means of shelter, and for some others they are a source of reward. They are a source of reward for the person who keeps them for the cause of Allah tying them with a long tether on a meadow or in a garden. The result is that whatever the horses eat from the area of the meadow or the garden where they are tied and whatever they excrete from dung and urine will be counted as good deeds for his benefit. If they break the rope and jump over one or two hillocks, then all their footprints and dung will be written as good deeds for him. If they pass by a river with their owner and drink water from it, even though he had no intention of watering them, then he will get reward as much as the water drunk.”

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed Abu Sa‘īd al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him) that whoever believes in Allah, accepts Him as a Lord, God, Owner, Master, and Commander, embraces Islam as a religion, submitting and surrendering to all of its commands and prohibitions, and believes in Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) as a prophet with everything he was sent with and conveyed, Paradise will be guaranteed for him. Abu Sa‘īd (may Allah be pleased with him) was amazed and asked: Repeat it to me, O Messenger of Allah, and he did. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) added: And I have another quality by which Allah raises a slave by one hundred degrees in Paradise; the distance between every two degrees is like that between the heavens and the earth. Abu Sa‘īd asked: What is it, O Messenger of Allah? He replied: Jihad for the sake of Allah, Jihad for the sake of Allah.

Among the causes of entering Paradise is accepting Allah as a Lord, Islam as a religion, and Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) as a prophet.

Highlighting the significance of performing Jihad for the sake of Allah Almighty.

The high rank of the Mujāhid (fighter in the cause of Allah) in Paradise.

In Paradise, there are countless levels and innumerable ranks, and of them, there are one hundred levels for the Mujāhids.

The Companions of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had a love for knowing goodness, its paths, and its causes.

Whoever shoots an arrow at the enemies of Allah the Exalted, he will have the reward of the one who freed a slave in the cause of Allah, whether his arrow hit the enemy or not, as in the narration of An-Nasā'i: "Whoever shoots an arrow in the cause of Allah, the Exalted, whether it hit the enemy or not..." If his arrow does hit the enemy, then he would attain a (higher) degree in Paradise as mentioned in the narration of Abu Dawūd: "Whoever hits the enemy with an arrow in the cause of Allah, the Exalted, will attain a degree," and the narration of Ahmad adds: "in Paradise".

Abu Qatādah al-Ansāri (may Allah be pleased with him) was searching for his debtor, who was hiding from him. When he found him, the debtor said: I am insolvent, and I have no money to repay your debt. Abu Qatādah (may Allah be pleased with him) asked him to swear by Allah that he had no money, and the man swore by Allah that he was telling the truth. Thereupon, Abu Qatādah (may Allah be pleased with him) said that he heard the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) say: Whoever is pleased and delighted to be saved by Allah from the agonies, tribulations, and horrors of the Day of Judgment, let him give an insolvent person respite by postponing or delaying the demand of payment or by reducing the debt or canceling it.

It is recommended to give the insolvent respite until it is easy for him to repay the debt or grant him full or partial remission.

Whoever relieves a believer of a distress of this life, Allah will relieve him of a distress on the Day of Judgment, as indeed, one reaps what he sows.

Rule: Obligatory acts are better than supererogatory ones. However, sometimes the supererogatory is better than the obligatory. Granting the insolvent remission is a supererogatory act, whereas granting him respite and waiting without demanding repayment is obligatory. Here, in this case, the supererogatory act is better than the obligatory act.

The Hadīth is about the insolvent, who has a valid excuse, but as for the procrastinating debtor who has money, it was reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Procrastination in payment of a debt by a rich person is injustice."

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that if a person fasts the month of Ramadan out of faith in Allah and out of belief in the obligation of fasting and the abundant reward Allah Almighty has prepared for those who observe fast, seeking thereby Allah's pleasure, without show-off or pursuit of reputation among people, his past sins will be forgiven.

The Hadīth points out the merit of sincerity and its significance in fasting Ramadan and other righteous deeds.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) encourages the observance of the Bardayn, namely the Fajr and ‘Asr prayers. He gave glad tidings for whoever observes them in their due manner in terms of time, congregation, etc, that they would be a means of admitting him to Paradise.

The merit of observing the Fajr and ‘Asr prayers; is that the Fajr occurs at the time of deep sleep and ‘Asr occurs when one is occupied with his work. Therefore, whoever observes them will observe the rest of the prayers with greater reason.

The Fajr and ‘Asr prayers were called "Bardayn" because of the cold night breeze at the time of the Fajr prayer and the cold daytime breeze at the time of the ‘Asr prayer, even though it is hot at that time yet it is less hot than the time that precedes it; or they were called by way of dominance, as the sun and moon are called: the two moons.

Paradise will be guaranteed for any Muslim who fights in the cause of Allah, even if only for a short while, such as the time duration between two consecutive turns of milking. This period is as short as it allows the she-camel to be milked, then left so that her calf can feed, and then returned to be milked another time. Anyone is injured in the cause of Allah, the Almighty, such as the injury from falling from his horse or from a sword, etc., even if it is a minor injury, he will come on the Day of Judgment with his wound bleeding profusely, except that the blood color will be that of saffron and the loveliest scent of musk will be released from it.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) tells about the merit of Qiyām al-Layl in the Night of Decree, which lies in the last ten days of Ramadan; that whoever engages in a lot of prayer, supplication, Qur'an recitation, and dhikr in this night, believing in it and its reported merit, seeking Allah's reward by his deed, without show-off or pursuit of reputation among people, his previous sins will be forgiven.

The Hadīth points out the merit of the Night of Decree and urges us to perform Qiyām al-Layl therein.

Righteous deeds are not accepted without sincere intentions.

It shows Allah's grace and mercy, for whoever performs Qiyām on the Night of Decree out of faith and in pursuit of reward, his past sins will be forgiven.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar was a righteous man and encouraged him to perform Qiyām. So, since then, he used to sleep very little at night.

The Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stood up and addressed his Companions and told them about the high status of Jihad and that the most noble deeds are jihad for establishing Allah’s religion on this earth and having faith in Allah. A man asked if Allah would forgive his sins if he were to be killed in battle while attempting to establish the dominance of Allah’s religion. The Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) replied in the positive. However, there are conditions. One must be killed while being patient withstanding the pain, sincere in his cause, and without retreating. The Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) exempted debt, declaring that martyrdom is not an exemption to returning people their rights.

There is a story behind this Hadīth, and it is mentioned here in brief. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) bought a camel from Jābir (may Allah be pleased with him). "And he weighed out for him," meaning: the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) weighed the price of the camel. This is said figuratively, since the one who did the weighing in the Hadīth was Bilāl (may Allah be pleased with him) upon orders from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) as stated in the original Hadīth: "So he ordered Bilāl to weigh for me an Uqiyyah (unit of weight) and he weighed it for me, giving me more than its price." That means he paid Jābir (may Allah be pleased with him) more than his due. They used to deal with money by weight not by units, although sometimes they used it by units, but mostly by weight.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) commanded the Muslim to support his fellow Muslim, whether he is an oppressor or oppressed. A man then said: O Messenger of Allah, I support him if he is oppressed by removing the injustice from him, but what if he is the oppressor? How can I support him then? He said: Stop him, restrain him, and prevent him from committing injustice, for it is indeed supporting him against his devil and his own soul that commands evil.

A reminder of one of the rights of faith-based brotherhood among Muslims.

Restraining the oppressor and preventing him from committing injustice.

Islam stands in opposition to the concepts of the pre-Islamic era, where people would support one another whether they were oppressed or oppressors.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that men who wear silk are those who will have no share (of good) in the Hereafter. This statement is a severe threat, because wearing silk is allowed for women only, and it is also the clothing of the people of Paradise. Only the people of arrogance, pride, and vanity wear silk in the worldly life. For this reason, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prohibited men from wearing it. Although this prohibition is specific to natural silk, men should avoid wearing synthetic silk as well given its softness. But it is not prohibited to wear it according to a Fatwa by the Standing Committee (KSA).

‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that on the Day of the battle of Khaybar, some of the Companions of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) came saying: So-and-so is a martyr and so-and-so is a martyr. When they came to a man about whom they said: So-and-so is a martyr, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) remarked: Nay. I saw him in the Fire because of a cloak (from the war spoils) that he had concealed for himself. Thus, he was punished for it in Hellfire and this great attribute of martyrdom in the cause of Allah was negated from him.

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) says that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to sleep at the beginning of night, after praying the ‘Ishā' and would pray Qiyām at the end of the night, which is the second third of night. After finishing his prayer, he used to return to his bed and sleep, and that would be at the last sixth of the night to take some rest after the hard Qiyām. This sleep is also useful to restore one's energy for the Fajr prayer and the morning supplications. With this sleep, one wakes up refreshed. No one will discern that he was doing extra worship at night. Thus, ostentation on part of the worshiper would be out of the question. For this reason, the first call to the Fajr prayer is meant to wake up those who are asleep to pray the Witr if they have not done so and to urge those who are praying to take some rest in order to restore their energy.

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him): I have two neighbors, and I have been ordered to be generous to neighbors in general, but I cannot afford to give a gift to both of them at the same time. So which one should I give a gift to so as to be considered from those who are generous to neighbors? he said: The one whose door is the nearest to you.

A man came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to ask him about the best type of charity. So he said to him: That you give charity when you are in good health and you fear poverty if you live long, and you hope to become rich. Do not defer charity until you are dying and you know that you are about to leave this world and then you say: "For so-and-so I give this amount of money as charity or as a bequest." Lo, the money then belongs to your heir, not to you.

Abu Talhah (may Allah be pleased with him) was the one who owned the most farms in Madīnah from amongst the Ansār, and he had a garden that was opposite to the mosque of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) which had fresh water. The Prophet used to visit the garden and drink the water. When the following Qur’anic verse was revealed: {Never will you attain the good (reward) until you spend (in the way of Allah) from that which you love}, Abu Talhah hastened to see the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and said: "O Messenger of Allah, Allah has reveled the verse {Never will you attain the good (reward) until you spend (in the way of Allah) from that which you love}, and my most beloved possession is Bayrahā’ - which was the name of that garden - so I have given it to you as charity in the way of Allah and his Messenger." The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said in amazement: "Well-done! Well done! That is a profitable deal! That is a profitable deal! I suggest that you give it to your nearest relatives." So Abu Talhah (may Allah be pleased with him) divided it among his relatives and paternal cousins.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) took a silk garment or a piece of it in his left hand and took gold, jewelry or something similar, in his right hand. Then, he said: Silk and gold are forbidden for men to wear. As for women, they are permissible for them.

As-Sindi said: 'Forbidden' refers to its use as a garment. Otherwise, it is permissible for everyone to use it in terms of disposal, spending, and selling. Moreover, it is forbidden for everyone to make utensils of gold and use them.

The Islamic Shariah provides broad space for women due to their need for adornment and the like.

A man invited the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) with four others to a meal. A man followed them, and thus they became six altogether. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) arrived at the house of the host, he asked permission for the sixth man, saying: "This man followed us. If you wish, allow him to come in, and if you wish, he will go back." So the host allowed the man to join them in honor of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) mentioned that the Shariah rulings fall into three categories: what is left unaddressed, prohibitions, and commands. As for the first: It is what the Shariah has left unaddressed, as there is no ruling, and things, in principle, are not obligatory. During the Prophet's lifetime, it was a must not to ask about something that had not occurred for fear that it might become obligatory or forbidden through revelation, as Allah has left it unaddressed out of mercy towards His slaves. After the Prophet's death, on the other hand, if the question is posed by way of seeking legal opinion or learning about what one needs of the religion, then it is not only permissible but also commanded. However, if the question is posed by way of obstinacy and affectation, then this kind of question should be avoided, and this is what the Hadīth refers to, as it could lead to what happened to the Children of Israel when they were commanded to slaughter a cow. It was sufficient for them to obey the command by slaughtering any cow; however, when they acted obstinately, things were made hard for them. Second: The prohibitions: It is whatever one is rewarded for abandoning and is punished for doing. So, all prohibitions must be avoided. Third: The commands: It is whatever one is rewarded for doing and punished for abandoning. The commands must be carried out to the best of one's ability.

People should be occupied with what is important and necessary, leaving what is not immediately needed, and they should not be preoccupied with asking about what has not occurred.

It is prohibited to ask questions that may lead to the complexity of issues and open the door to suspicious matters that lead to wide divergence.

Commanding that all prohibitions be avoided because avoiding them entails no hardship, and this is why the prohibition here is general.

Commanding that orders be carried out according to the ability, as it could entail hardship or one could be unable to do it. Hence, the command here depends on the ability.

Forbidding the act of asking too many questions. Scholars divided questions into two categories: First: Questions that are meant for learning what one needs of the religion, and this kind of question is required, and an example of this is the Companions' questions. Second: Questions that are asked by way of obstinacy and affectation, and this is the kind of forbidden question.

Warning this Ummah of disobeying their Prophet as what occurred in the previous nations.

Asking frequently about what is not necessary and disagreeing with the prophets lead to destruction, especially when the questions are about what is unattainable, like matters of the unseen, which none knows except Allah, and the events taking place on the Day of Judgment.

Forbidding the act of asking about extremely difficult matters. Al-Awzā‘i said: When Allah chooses to deprive His slave of the blessing of knowledge, He makes him speak fallacies, for I noted that those were the least among people in terms of knowledge. Ibn Wahb said: I heard Mālik say: Arguing about knowledge turns off the light of knowledge in one's heart.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to eat with three fingers, and he wouldn't use his other fingers, except when necessary. And, when he had finished eating, he would lick his fingers.

The Prophet (ﷺ) pointed out that breastfeeding produces the same interdiction as produced by childbirth and blood relationships, like the maternal or paternal uncle or brother, and it permits the same rulings permitted due to childbirth.

The Hadīth represents a principle for the rulings related to breastfeeding.

Ibn Hajar said: His statement: (Breastfeeding produces the same interdiction that childbirth produces), i.e., it gives the same permissibility that childbirth gives. This is held by consensus concerning the prohibition of marriage and its consequences, the spread of prohibition between the infant and the children of the breastfeeding woman, and treating them like relatives in terms of the permissibility of looking, seclusion, and traveling. But this does not entail the rest of the rulings of motherhood, such as inheritance, the obligation of spending, emancipation through ownership, testimony, financial legal liability, and the revocation of legal retribution.

It establishes the ruling of permanent prohibition of marriage on account of breastfeeding.

Other Hadīths indicate that the prohibition of breastfeeding is established by five known sucklings, and that they should be in the first two years.

Women prohibited on account of marriage are: mothers, including grandmothers, and even their ascendants on the father's or mother's side. Daughters, including the daughters of daughters and the daughters of sons, and their descendants. Sisters, whether they are full sisters or half-sisters from the father's or mother's side. Paternal aunts, including all sisters of the father, whether they are full sisters or half-sisters, and also all sisters of grandfathers and their ascendants. Maternal aunts, including all sisters of the mother, whether they are full sisters or half-sisters, and also all sisters of grandmothers and their ascendants, whether they are grandmothers from the father's or mother's side. Daughters of the brother and daughters of the sister, including their daughters and their descendants.

Women who are prohibited due to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding prohibits what is prohibited by marriage. So, the like of every woman who is prohibited by marriage is also prohibited by breastfeeding, except for the mother of his brother and the sister of his son by breastfeeding—they are not prohibited.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) explains a general rule in matters and that they fall under three categories in the Shariah: clearly lawful matters, clearly unlawful matters, and doubtful matters with the rulings on whether they are illegal or lawful being unclear and unknown to many people. So, whoever abandons those suspicious matters keeps his religion safe by avoiding falling into the unlawful and keeps his honor safe from people's criticism of him for engaging in such doubtful things. Whoever does not avoid doubtful matters risks falling into the unlawful or being maligned by people. The Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) provided a parable to demonstrate the condition of a person who engages in doubtful matters, saying that he is like a shepherd who grazes his cattle close to a piece of land protected by its owner; so, his cattle are likely to pasture in this protected land, given its proximity. Likewise, he who engages in a suspicious matter draws near to the unlawful and is likely to fall into it. Then, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that there is a piece of flesh in the body, namely the heart, and when it is sound, the whole body is sound, and if it is corrupt, the entire body becomes corrupt.

The Hadīth urges us to avoid suspicious matters with unclear rulings.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that Allah Almighty prescribed ihsān (kindness/excellence) upon us in everything. Ihsān: It is constantly being heedful of Allah in worshipping Him, doing good, and abstaining from harming other created beings. An aspect of this is ihsān in killing and slaughtering. Ihsān in killing, for legal retribution, is to choose the easiest method which causes the least suffering to the one being killed and the quickest in taking his life. Ihsān in slaughtering animals is to show kindness toward the animal by sharpening the blade and not sharpening it while the animal is looking on, and not slaughtering an animal while another animal is looking.

The Hadīth shows Allah's mercy and kindness toward His creation.

Ihsān in killing and slaughtering is to do it in the manner prescribed by the Shariah.

The Shariah is perfect and comprises all forms of goodness, one of which is mercy and kindness toward animals.

It is prohibited to mutilate a person after killing him.

Anything that causes suffering to animals is prohibited.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that whoever fasts a day in Jihad, and it is said in Jihad or otherwise, sincerely for the sake of Allah, seeking reward and recompense from Allah, then by His grace, Allah will distance him from the Fire seventy years.

An-Nawawi said: The merit of fasting in the way of Allah, and it is meant to apply to whoever is not harmed by it, does not neglect any rights because of it, and does not hamper his ability to fight or fulfill any of the missions of his fight.

Encouraging and motivating the voluntary fast.

It is obligatory to offer the fast sincerely for Allah's sake and seek His pleasure, not for showing off, gaining a good reputation, or any other purpose.

As-Sindi said: His statement (in the way of Allah) may mean simply having a sincere intention or fasting while being a warrior in battle. The second meaning is the more apparent one.

Ibn Hajar said: His statement (seventy falls) refers to fall as a specific time of the year, but here it means a year. Fall is mentioned specifically instead of the other seasons—summer, winter, and spring—because fall is the most fruitful season, as it is the time when fruits are harvested.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that people will remain in a good state as long as they hasten to break their fast, after verifying the sunset, out of compliance with the Sunnah and not crossing its boundaries.

An-Nawawi said: It contains encouragement to hasten the break of fast after verifying the sunset. Its meaning is that the affairs of the Ummah will remain orderly, and they will be in a good state as long as they uphold this Sunnah. If they delay it, this will be a sign of corruption that they may fall into.

The goodness among people persists due to their adherence to the Sunnah, while the corruption of affairs is related to the deviation from the Sunnah.

Opposing the People of the Book and the heretic innovators who delay the break of the fast.

Ibn Hajar said: This clarifies the legal cause in this regard. Al-Muhallab said: The rationale behind this is to ensure that the day will not be extended at the expense of the night, and because it is more convenient for the fasting person and provides him with greater strength for worship. Scholars have agreed that this applies when the sunset is confirmed by sighting or by the testimony of two just witnesses, and also by the testimony of one just witness, according to the more preferred opinion.

Ibn Hajar said: Note: Among the evil innovations that have emerged in this time is the second Adhān (call to prayer) that is made about one-third of an hour before dawn during Ramadan, and extinguishing the lights that serve as a signal for prohibiting eating and drinking for those who intend to fast. Those who introduced this claimed it was for caution in worship, but only a few people know about it. This has led them to the point where they do not call to prayer until after sunset, supposedly to extend the time. Consequently, they delayed breaking the fast and hastened the Suhūr (pre-dawn meal), thus contradicting the Sunnah. As a result, goodness has diminished among them, and evil has increased, and Allah is the One to be sought for help.

The Companions of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) were with him during one of his journeys, and some of them were fasting, while others were not. The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) approved of the action of both parties. On a hot day, they stopped in some place so as to have a rest from the hardship of travel and the scorching heat of noon time. Those who were fasting fell to the ground due to the heat and thirst, and were unable to do any work. Meanwhile, those who were not fasting pitched the tents, watered the camels, and served their fasting brothers. When the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) saw this service that they provided the army with, he encouraged them and said: "Those who were not fasting today have taken all the reward.”

There was a covenant between the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and the disbelievers of the tribe of Quraysh, and he had declared that some of the polytheists were no longer granted immunity by the Muslims. They were nine people only. So, at the time of the conquest of Makkah, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) entered it while being on his guard, so he was wearing a helmet. Some of the Companions found Ibn Khatal (the apostate; one of those who were deprived of immunity) hanging on to the curtains of the Ka‘bah, seeking refuge in its sacredness against being killed, as he knew well how ugly and evil his past actions were. The Companions abstained from killing him before asking the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). When they asked him, he said: "Kill him." So he was killed between the Black Stone and the Maqām Ibrahīm.

Stoning the Jamarāt on the Day of Nahr (10th of Dhu al-Hijjah) and the Days of Tashrīq (11th-13th of Dhu al-Hijjah) is a great act of worship that implies submission to Allah, the Almighty, compliance with His commands, and following Prophet Ibrahīm (peace be upon him). The first ritual that the pilgrim starts with on the Day of Nahr is stoning Jamrat al-‘Aqabah to initiate the great acts on that day. One stands the way the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did by making the Ka‘bah on his left and Mina on his right, then facing the Jamrat and throwing seven stones at it while making Takbīr with every stone thrown. Ibn Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) stood that way and swore that that was the standing place of the one to whom Sūrat al-Baqarah was revealed, in reference to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessing be upon him).

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade fasting on Friday, except when being coupled with fasting a day before it or a day after it, or when it is part of a regular fast.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) sent ‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) to collect Zakah. When ‘Umar asked Al-‘Abbās ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib to pay the share due on him, he refused, and so did Khālid ibn al-Walīd and Ibn Jamīl. So ‘Umar went to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to complain to him about the three men. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that Ibn Jamīl had no excuse for withholding Zakah except that he was poor and Allah made him wealthy, the thing that necessitated his immediate payment of Zakah. As for Khālid, it was unjust to say that he refused to pay Zakah, for he had devoted his armors and war gears to exclusive use in the cause of Allah. By this, he wanted to get closer to Allah by spending something not mandatory on him. So it was impossible that he would withhold a mandatory charity. As for Al-‘Abbās, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that he would pay Zakah on his behalf, probably because of his being held in high esteem as indicated by: “Do you not know that a man’s uncle is like his father?"

Muslims used to give out Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of every young and old person as one Sā‘ of food during the time of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and during the time of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs. Their food was barley, (raisins): dry grapes, (Aqit): dried yogurt, and dates. One Sā‘ is equivalent to four Mudds, and one Mudd is equal to two handfuls of an average person. When Mu‘āwiyah (may Allah be pleased with him) came to Madīnah as a caliph and the Syrian wheat became abundant, he delivered a speech and said: I see that two Mudds of the Syrian wheat (half a Sā‘) is equivalent to one Sā‘ of dates, so the people adopted this opinion. Abu Sa‘īd al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him) said: As for me, I will continue to give it as I used to give it during the Prophet's lifetime for as long as I live.

Clarifying the amount of Zakat al-Fitr during the time of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him); one Sā‘ of food, regardless of the type or value.

All human food is valid to be given as Zakat al-Fitr; however, these four types were particularly mentioned because they were the staple foods during the time of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).

It is not valid to give Zakat al-Fitr in the form of money instead of food.

Commenting on "Sharh Muslim,"  An-Nawawi said: When the Companions differ, the opinion of some is not more valid than that of the others, so we must refer to other evidence. We found that the apparent meaning of the Hadīths and analogy both agree on the requirement of a full Sā‘ of wheat, like other types of food, and thus it must be adopted.

Ibn Hajar said: In the Hadīth of Abu Sa‘īd, there is evidence of his strict adherence to and compliance with the prophetic traditions and avoidance of resorting to personal reasoning when there is textual proof. As for what Mu‘āwiyah did and the people's agreement with him, it indicates the permissibility of Ijtihād (independent reasoning), which is commendable. However, when a clear text exists, Ijtihād is considered invalid.

Some of the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) had Suhūr with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), and then he stood for the Fajr prayer. Anas said to Zayd ibn Thābit (may Allah be pleased with him): How much time was there between the Adhān and the completion of Suhūr? Zayd (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The time it takes to recite fifty medium-length verses, neither long nor short, and neither recited quickly nor slowly.

It is preferable to delay Suhūr until just before dawn because delaying it brings greater benefit to the body and provides it with more energy throughout the day.

The Companions' keenness on getting together with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to learn from him.

The Prophet's kind treatment of his Companions as he used to eat with them.

The time of Imsāk (abstaining from fast invalidators) is the rise of dawn.

His statement: "How long was the time between Adhān and Suhūr,"  i.e., between Suhūr and Iqāmah (the second call to prayer), as he said in the other Hadīth: "How long was the time between their completion of their Suhūr and their entrance into prayer", and the Hadīths explain one another.

Al-Muhallab said: It indicates the estimation of time based on physical activities. The Arabs used to estimate time by activities, such as saying: "the time it takes to milk a sheep" or "the time it takes to slaughter a camel." Zayd ibn Thābit (may Allah be pleased with him) shifted from that to measuring time by recitation, indicating that this time was the time of worship through recitation. If they had measured it by something other than an activity, he would have said, for example: "the time it takes to walk a certain distance" or "one-third of a fifth of an hour.".

Ibn Abi Jamrah said: He (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to consider what was easier for his Ummah and act accordingly. If he did not eat Suhūr, they would follow his example, which would be difficult for some. If he ate Suhūr in the middle of the night, it would also be challenging for those who are overcome by sleep, potentially leading them to miss Fajr or requiring them to struggle to stay awake.

When Allah, the Almighty, bestowed upon His Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) a large amount of war booty in the battle of Hunayn, and after he ended the blockade he had imposed on Taif, he returned to get the booty; the majority of which was in the form of cattle. He had more than 40,000 camels and 120 sheep. So, he gave some people who had recently accepted Islam to attract their hearts and make them firm upon Islam. Some of the Ansār disapproved of this, but the nobles amongst them understood that this action on part of the Prophet was correct. The ones who disapproved said: "The Messenger of Allah is giving the booty to people whose blood is dripping from our swords (i.e. whom we had just fought), and he is not giving us anything." When the Prophet was informed of this statement, he ordered that they be assembled under a large canopy and he addressed them, saying: "What is this statement that has reached me from you?" He admonished them and acknowledged the support they offered to him and to the religion of Islam which he came with. After speaking to them, they were appeased and realized the great reward that Allah had granted them, represented in their companionship of Allah's Messenger and their return home with him accompanying them, in addition to what Allah has prepared for them in the Hereafter because of their support and the efforts they exerted in His Cause. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) also ordered them to show patience when they see other people favored over them after his death.

Abu Sa‘īd al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him) said that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to perform I‘tikāf in the middle ten days of Ramadan, in pursuit of Laylat al-Qadr. One year, he stayed as usual in I‘tikāf up to the night of the twenty-first (of Ramadan). On the morning of that night, he was supposed to end his I‘tikāf. However, he learned that Laylat al-Qadr would be in the last ten nights. So he told his Companions who stayed in I‘tikāf with him the middle ten nights to continue their I‘tikāf the last ten nights. He also told them that Allah, the Almighty, showed him Laylat al-Qadr in his sleep, but later made him forget which night it was. However, in that year he saw in his sleep a sign of that night, which was his prostration in the morning prayer on water and mud. Allah fulfilled the vision of His Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and it rained on the night of the twenty-first. The mosque of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was built like a lattice; its pillars were made of palm trunks and its roof made of palm stalks and fronds. Therefore, the roof leaked from rain, and the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prostrated on water and mud in prayer on the morning of the twenty-first.

Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) informs that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) delivered a sermon on the Day of the Conquest of Makkah. He said that there is no emigration from Makkah, because it has become part of the Muslim lands. He then ordered the Muslims to fight if they are ordered to, in obedience to Allah, His Messenger and the ruler of the land. He then spoke of the sanctity of Makkah, and that it has been made sacred since Allah created the heavens and the earth. He said that it was not made lawful for anyone to fight in before him and that it will not be made permissible for any one after him either, as it was made lawful for him to fight therein for only an hour of the day, and then it returned to its original state of sanctity. He then mentioned that it is not permissible to cut off its thorns or to chase its game, and that no one should pick up lost items found in it except if he wants to announce it. He added that its vegetation should not be cut off, including grass and fodder. He excluded lemongrass because of the benefits it provides to the people of Makkah as it was used by the blacksmiths in starting fire for their work.

‘Ā’ishah, Mother of the Believers (may Allah be pleased with her), informed that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) adhered to I‘tikāf during the last ten days of Ramadan in the pursuit of the Night of Decree. He continued doing so until he died. After his death, his wives (may Allah be pleased with them) adhered to I‘tikāf as well.

The permissibility of practicing I‘tikāf in mosques, even for women provided that they adhere to the Shariah regulations and on condition of safety from temptation.

I‘tikāf is more confirmed in the last ten days of Ramadan given that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did it regularly.

I‘tikāf is an ongoing Sunnah that has not been abrogated, as the wives of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) observed I‘tikāf after his death.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged Sahūr, which is eating in the last part of the night in preparation for fasting, because it contains (blessing), i.e., a great deal of goodness in terms of recompense and reward, waking up in the last part of the night for supplication, gaining strength for fasting, being energized for it, and reducing its hardship.

Having Sahūr is recommended and represents compliance with the Shariah command.

Ibn Hajar said in "Fat'h Al-Bāri": "The blessing in Sahūr is attained in multiple ways: following the Sunnah, differing from the People of the Book, gaining strength for worship, increasing energy, warding off bad morals that hunger might provoke, providing the opportunity for the charity to those who ask or who join in eating, fostering Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and supplication during a time likely for supplications to be answered, and allowing the opportunity to renew the intention for fasting for those who may have forgotten to do so before sleeping.

The good teaching approach of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) as he couples the ruling with the relevant rationale to reassure the listener and make the sublimity of the Shariah known.

Ibn Hajar said: Sahūr is fulfilled with the least amount of food or drink that a person consumes.

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was on a journey and saw a man over whom people had gathered, shading him from the heat of the sun and his intense thirst. The Prophet (ﷺ) asked: What is the matter with him? They said: He is fasting. He said: It is not an act of righteousness to fast while traveling. You should accept Allah's concession that He has granted you.

Highlighting the ease of the Islamic Shariah.

It is permissible to fast while traveling, and it is also permissible to take the concession by breaking the fast.

Fasting while traveling is disliked if it causes hardship, unless it reaches the point of endangering one's life, in which case it becomes forbidden.

An-Nawawi said: It is not from righteousness to fast while traveling—meaning: when it causes hardship or harm. The context of the Hadīth indicates this interpretation.

The Prophet's care and concern for his Companions, and his inquiry about their conditions.

Abu Ad-Dardā' (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that they set out on a journey during the month of Ramadan, and the weather was extremely hot that they would put their hands on their heads to protect them from the heat. None of them was fasting except the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and ‘Abdullāh ibn Rawahah al-Ansāri (may Allah be pleased with him). They both were able to fast and endure severity of the weather, and this is a proof that it is permissible for the Muslim to fast when traveling even with hardship or difficulty that does not lead to one's death.

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that Hamzah ibn ‘Amr al-Aslami (may Allah be pleased with him) asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) if he should fast while traveling, so the Prophet gave him the choice to either fast or not, saying: "If you wish then fast, and if you wish then do not fast." What is intended here is the obligatory fasting, based on the Prophet's statement in another Hadīth: "It is a concession granted by Allah." It is implied here that Hamzah was asking about the obligatory fasting, and the proof for this is the narration in Abu Dawūd in which Hamzah said: "O Messenger of Allah, I own some riding animals and I use them. I myself travel on them and I rent them out. It is possible that this month (meaning Ramadan) comes (while I am traveling) and I find myself strong enough (to fast)." There is also a possibility that Hamzah was asking about fasting in general, the obligatory and the voluntary, as ‘Ā’ishah said: "And he used to fast often." Hence, it becomes clear that not fasting while traveling is a concession from Allah, so whoever takes advantage of the concession is correct and whoever chooses to fast, then this is also permissible, and his fasting fulfills the obligatory fast.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade Muslims from fasting a day or two ahead of Ramadan out of cautiousness for Ramadan, because the obligation of fasting Ramadan is based on sighting the crescent, and there is no need for affectation. However, if someone has a habitual fast, such as fasting every other day or fasting on Mondays or Thursdays, and it coincides with this time, then he may fast. This is not considered a part of anticipating Ramadan. This also applies to obligatory fasts, such as making up for missed fasts or fulfilling a vow.

Affectation is prohibited, and the observance of worship as legislated, without any addition or omission, is obligatory.

Part of the rationale behind this—and Allah knows best—is to distinguish between the obligatory acts of worship and the voluntary ones, to be prepared for receiving Ramadan with energy and eagerness, and for fasting to be the distinctive mark of that virtuous and special month.

Zakah is founded on justice and equality, hence, Allah has made it obligatory upon all types of properties, growing or apt to growth, such as harvested crops and merchandise for sale. As for properties that do not grow, those intended for possession or personal use, no Zakah is due on its owners, because it is a personal item. This category includes what one rides, be that a horse, a camel, or a car. The same rule applies to the slave used for service, one's furniture and utensils made for personal use. However, the exception here is Zakat al-Fitr on the slave, which is obligatory because it is associated with people not properties.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) made Zakat al-Fitr obligatory after Ramadan. Its amount is one Sā’, which is equivalent to four Mudds in weight. One Mudd: two handfuls of an average person of dates or barley due on every Muslim, free or slave, male or female, young or old. This applies to one who has enough surplus beyond his needs for the day and night, for himself and for those whom he provides for. He commanded that it be given before the people go out to the Eid prayer.

Zakat al-Fitr from Ramadan must be paid on behalf of the young and the old, the free and the slave. It is entrusted to the guardian and the master, and a man should give it on behalf of himself, his children, and those whom he is obligated to provide for.

It is not obligatory to give Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of the fetus; rather, it is recommended.

Clarifying what should be given as Zakat al-Fitr and that it is the people's customary staple food.

It is obligatory to give it out before the Eid prayer, preferably on the morning of Eid, and it is permissible to give it out one or two days before Eid.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that it is unlawful for a Muslim woman to travel a distance of one night unless accompanied by a man from her Mahrams.

Ibn Hajar said: The impermissibility of a woman traveling without a Mahram, and this is a consensus except in the cases of Hajj and ‘Umrah, and leaving the land of Shirk (polytheism). However, some scholars have made this a condition for performing Hajj.

The perfection of the Islamic Shariah and its deep concern for safeguarding and protecting women.

Belief in Allah and the Last Day requires submission to the legislation of Allah and abidance by His limits.

A woman's Mahram is her husband or someone who is permanently prohibited from marrying her due to blood relations, breastfeeding, or marriage ties. He must be a Muslim, adult, sane, trustworthy, and reliable, as the purpose of a Mahram is to protect and safeguard the woman and take care of her needs.

Al-Bayhaqi said regarding the narrations related to the duration of travel for which a woman is not allowed to travel except with a Mahram: In conclusion, anything that is called travel, a woman is prohibited from undertaking it without a husband or a Mahram, whether it is for three days, two days, one day, a Barīd (a specific distance measurement), or anything else, due to the general indication of the narration of Ibn ‘Abbās, which is the last of Muslim's previous narrations: "A woman must not travel except with a Mahram." This applies to all that is called travel. End quote. This Hadīth was based on the condition of the questioner and his country.

‘Ā'ishah and Umm Salāmah (may Allah be pleased with both of them) inform us that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to have sexual intercourse with his wives at night, and perhaps the time for Fajr prayer would come while he was in the state of Janābah and had not yet taken a ritual bath. If he were fasting on that day, he would complete his fast without making up for it. They mentioned this as an answer to Marwān ibn al-Hakam when he sent someone to ask them about this matter. This ruling applies in Ramadan and all other months.

In this Hadīth the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade fasting the two days, two types of garments, and two prayers. The two days on which fasting is forbidden are Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Ad'ha, and the wisdom behind the prohibition of fasting these days is that it is not proper to fast on days of feast and delight. The two types of garments are wearing a garment that is void of openings for the hands, and sitting on one’s buttocks while holding his both legs pulled back with his arms in case he wore only one garment, it has been restricted in the narration of Al-Bukhāri: "If there is nothing covering his private parts." The two prayers are any prayer after the Fajr prayer and after the ‘Asr prayer; this is to eliminate any means leading to imitating the disbelievers who prostrate to the sun at the time of its rising and setting. However, it is permissible during this time to perform the obligatory prayer as well as prayers for specific reasons (i.e. entering the mosque and so on).

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessing be upon him) forbade his Companions from Wisāl out of mercy and compassion for them. However, the Companions, out of their love for virtuous deeds and their eagerness to perform deeds that would bring them closer to Allah, wished to practice the Wisāl fast, following the example of the Prophet. They said to him: But you practice Wisāl! So he informed them that he was given (by Allah) what compensates his need for food and drink. He added that whoever wants to continuously fast, then he may do so until the time before dawn. The Islamic Shariah is tolerant and easy and is free of whatever causes hardship and distress, and is also free of extremism and excess, because that would entail torture and exhaustion of the self, and Allah does not charge a soul except with that within its capacity. This is also because ease and facilitation encourage the continuity of deeds and ward off boredom. Moreover, they emphasize the justice that Allah has placed on earth, which is giving Allah what He demands of worship while giving the self its essential needs.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that whoever eats or drinks forgetfully while fasting, whether the fast is obligatory or voluntary, should complete his fast and not break it because he did not intend to break the fast; rather, it is sustenance that Allah provided him with, and it is Allah Who fed him and gave him drink.

The validity of the fast of whoever eats or drinks forgetfully.

Whoever eats or drinks forgetfully incurs no sin because he does not do this by his choice.

The kindness of Allah towards His slaves and how He facilitates things for them and removes hardship and difficulty from them.

The fasting person does not break his fast by any of the fast invalidators unless three conditions are met: 1. Being aware; if he is ignorant, the fast is not broken. 2. Remembering; if he is forgetful, his fast is valid and he does not need to make up for it. 3. Willingness; not under compulsion, meaning he consumes the invalidating means by choice.

As Friday is a day of Eid for Muslims, Allah forbade that we should specifically fast it or perform Qiyām in it, unless we fast the day before or after it, or it coincides with days one usually fasts. Also, this may otherwise lead people to think that it is an obligation to perform more worship on Friday.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade fasting on the days of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Ad'ha. As for Eid al-Fitr, it is the day of breaking the fast after the month of Ramadan, and as for the day of Eid al-Ad'ha, it is the day of eating from the sacrifices.

It is prohibited to fast on the days of Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Ad'ha, and the days of Tashrīq, as they are connected to the day of Eid al-Ad'ha, except for one who does not have a sacrificial animal, as it is permissible for him to fast on the days of Tashrīq.

Ibn Hajar said: it is said: The benefit of describing these two days is to indicate the legal cause for the obligation of breaking the fast therein, which is to distinguish them from fasting and to show the completion of the fast by breaking it afterward. The other cause is the sacrifice that is meant to draw close to Allah by slaughtering it to eat from it.

It is recommended for the speaker to mention in his sermon what relates to the time at hand in terms of rulings and to be mindful of relevant occasions.

Permissibility of eating from the sacrifice.

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Abbās and Al-Miswar ibn Makhramah (may Allah be pleased with both of them) were debating whether the one in the state of Ihrām is allowed to wash his head or not. What made it debatable is that if one moves the hair on his head, it may cause some of the hair to fall. So ‘Abdullāh ibn Hunayn went to Abu Ayyūb and found him washing himself. He said to Abu Ayyūb: Ibn ‘Abbās sent me to ask you how the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to wash himself (while in Ihrām). Abu Ayyūb said to the one who was pouring the water for him: "Pour," after he had lowered the cloth that was screening him until his head was visible, then he moved his hair with his hands, going from back to front and from front to back. Then he said: "This is what I saw the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) doing." When ‘Abdullāh ibn Hunayn informed them (Ibn ‘Abbās and Al-Miswar) that ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Abbās was right - as the Companions always sought to know what the correct thing to do is- Al-Miswar (may Allah be pleased with him) recanted and admitted the virtue of his companion, saying: "I will never argue with you again."

Jābir (may Allah be pleased with him) told that when they came with the Messenger of Allah to perform the Farewell Hajj, many of them only intended to perform Hajj. But Prophet told those who had not brought sacrificial animals with them to change their Hajj to ‘Umrah, so that they would perform ‘Umrah followed by Hajj. And they did so, may Allah be pleased with them.

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) informs that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered the heir of the one who dies while still having some obligatory fasts to observe, such as a vow, expiation, or making up for missed Ramadan fasts; to fast on behalf of his deceased relative because it is a debt, and the relative is the worthiest of fulfilling his debt on his behalf. It is an act of kindness and dutifulness to him and from the maintenance of kinship ties. This command denotes desirability, not obligation.

This Hadīth has two narrations, and it is clear from the context that they were two occasions. The first narration tells about a man who came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and told him that his mother passed away without fasting one month that was due on her, so should he fast it on her behalf? The second narration is about a woman who came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and told him that her mother passed away without fasting a month that she vowed to fast, so should she fast on her behalf? In both cases, the Prophet told them that they should fast on behalf of their parents. The Prophet made an analogy to make the judgment clear by asking if their parents were indebted to a human being, would they pay their debts? They answered in the affirmative. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) told them that this fasting is a debt their parents owe to Allah. Since the debt to humans can be settled, the debt owed to Allah deserves more to be settled.

Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) addressed the people on the Day of ‘Arafah while he was in ‘Arafat. He permitted them to wear Khuff in case they cannot find sandals or slippers, without mentioning cutting the socks below the ankles. He also permitted them to wear Sirwāl for the one who cannot find an Izār, without stipulating cutting the Sirwāl open, as a form of alleviation from Allah, the Exalted, the Most Wise.

Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reports what the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said about the liability for damage caused by an animal or by going down a well or a mine. He clarified that the damage caused by an animal entails no compensation. The same applies to the damage caused by going down a well or a mine and dying therein. This is because the animal, well, and mine cannot be held liable for compensation, nor can their owner be held liable as long as he did not commit any transgression or negligence. Then he mentioned that whoever finds a buried treasure from pre-Islamic times, be it big or small, then he must give out one-fifth of it because he acquired it without any difficulty or burden, and he keeps the rest for himself.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was observing I‘tikāf during the last ten nights of Ramadan. His wife, Safiyyah (may Allah be pleased with her) visited him one of those nights and talked to him for some time. Then she got up to go back home, so the Prophet got up with her to escort her and keep her company. Two men from the Ansār walked by, and when they saw the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) they sped up out of shyness when they saw his wife with him. So the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to them: Slow down for this is only my wife Safiyyah. The two men said in embarrassment: Subhān Allah! Is it even conceivable that someone might have suspicions about you (i.e. suspecting that the woman with him was not his wife)? In reply, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed them that the devil is keen on luring the sons of Adam, and that he is highly capable of doing so, for he runs through their veins just like blood given the subtle ways he sneaks into their hearts and minds. Therefore, he feared that the devil might cast suspicions in their hearts.

The Talbiyah of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), when intending to start the rituals of Hajj or ‘Umrah, was to say: (O Allah, I respond to Your call, I do respond) duly time and again regarding what You have called us to, including sincerity, monotheism, Hajj, and others. (I respond to Your call, You have no partner, I do respond) for You alone are worthy of worship, and You have no partner in Your lordship, worship, names, and attributes.) (Verily, praise), gratitude, commendation, and (blessing) are from You, and You are the One Who gives them; (to You) they are directed in all circumstances, (and sovereignty) also belongs to You. (You have no partner), as they all belong to You alone. Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) used to add: (I respond to Your call, I respond to Your call, and I ask You to make me happy), i.e., make me happy time and again. (Goodness is in Your Hands) all of it and out of Your grace. (I respond to Your call and to You belong desires), requests, and demands, i.e., to the One in Whose Hands goodness lies (and actions), as You are the One worthy of worship.

The legitimacy of saying Talbiyah in Hajj and ‘Umrah is more confirmed in both cases because it is their special slogan, just as Takbīr is the slogan of prayer.

Ibn al-Munīr said: The legitimacy of Talbiyah highlights the honor that Allah Almighty bestows upon His slaves, as their arrival at His House is by invitation from Him, Glorified and Exalted be He.

It is preferable to adhere to the Prophet's Talbiyah, and there is nothing wrong with the addition, given the Prophet's approval of it. Ibn Hajar said: This is the most balanced approach. One should recite what has been transmitted as Marfū‘ (directly attributed to the Prophet) separately, and if one chooses to say something that is Mawqūf (attributed to a Companion) or something he has composed himself that is appropriate, he should say it separately so it does not mix with the Marfū‘. This is similar to the supplication during Tashahhud, where he said: Then let him choose from requests and praises whatever he wishes, i.e., after he finishes reciting the Marfū‘.

It is recommended for men to raise their voice with Talbiyah, as for women, they should lower their voice for fear of temptation.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) saw Ka‘b ibn ‘Ujrah in Al-Hudaybiyah while being in the state of Ihrām, and lice were falling down his face out of his illness. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) felt sorry for him and said he never thought his ailment was that serious. Then he asked Ka‘b: "Can you afford a sheep?" He said: 'No.' So, Allah, Blessed and Exalted, revealed the verse (which means): {And whoever among you is ill or has an ailment of the head [making shaving necessary] must offer a ransom of fasting [three days] or charity or sacrifice.} [Sūrat al-Baqarah: 196] Thereupon, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave him choice either to fast three days, or feed six poor people; each receiving half a Sā‘ of wheat or the like. Both choices are an expiation for shaving his head during the state of Ihrām because he was forced due to the ailment in his head. In the other narration, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave him three options.

Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him) informed us that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) arrived with his Companions at Makkah during the Farewell Pilgrimage in the state of Ihrām to perform Hajj on the fourth of Dhu al-Hijjah. Some of them intended to perform Hajj only, while others intended both Hajj and ‘Umrah. He commanded the ones who did not have a sacrificial animal with them to change their state of Ihrām (from Hajj) to that of ‘Umrah. They thought doing so was very serious, as it involved unconditional exist from the state of Ihrām which would make sexual intercourse permissible, and then enter Ihrām for Hajj. Consequently, they asked the Messenger of Allah about that and he informed them that they should completely end their state of Ihrām, the thing that would make it permissible for them to do whatever they were forbidden from doing during Ihrām. They all complied.

Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) informs that his beloved friend and companion (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) advised and entrusted him with three things: First: Fasting three days of every month. Second: Performing the two Rak‘ahs (unit of prayer) of Duha (forenoon prayer) daily. Third: Performing Witr before sleeping for whoever fears not waking up at the end of the night.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave his Companions different pieces of advice based on his knowledge of their conditions and what suits each of them, as Jihad is suitable for the strong one, worship is suitable for the devoted worshipper, knowledge is suitable for the knowledgeable, and so on.

Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalāni said about his statement: (fasting three days of every month); this apparently refers to the White Days, namely the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the Hijri month.

Ibn Hajar al-‘Asqalāni said: It signifies that it is recommended to pray Witr before sleep for the one who is not confident about waking up.

The importance of these three deeds, given the fact that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), advised a number of his Companions to observe them.

Ibn Daqīq al-‘Eid said about his statement: (the two Rak‘ahs of Duha): Perhaps he mentioned the minimum with which the deed is confirmed, and this indicates that the Duha prayer is recommended and that its minimum number of Rak‘ahs is two.

Time of the Duha prayer: It starts almost 15 minutes after sunrise, and its time extends to almost 10 minutes before noon. Its number: Its minimum number of Rak‘ahs is two; however, there is a difference in opinion regarding the maximum; it is said: eight Rak‘ahs, and it is said: Its maximum has no limit.

Time of Witr: It starts right after the ‘Ishā’ prayer until the break of dawn. Its minimum number of Rak‘ahs is one, and the maximum is eleven Rak‘ahs.

Usāmah ibn Zayd (may Allah be pleased with him) rode behind the Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) on his camel from ‘Arafah to Muzdalifah during Hajj. Therefore, he was the most knowledgeable regarding how he traveled. He said he would travel in a moderate pace when there was a crowd, but when he saw a gap in the crowd, he would increase the speed a bit, since it wouldn't harm anyone then.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged diligence in pursuing and seeking out the Night of Qadr by increasing good deeds. It is more likely to occur during the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan every year, which are: the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights.

The merit of the Night of Qadr and the encouragement to seek it out.

Out of His wisdom and mercy, Allah has hidden this night so that people would be diligent in performing worship, seeking this night, and their reward would, thus, be abundant.

The Night of Qadr is in the last ten nights of Ramadan, and it is more likely to be on the odd nights.

The Night of Qadr is one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. It is the night in which Allah Almighty revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). He made this night better than a thousand months in its blessing, its immense significance, and the impact of good deeds performed therein.

It was named "the Night of Qadr,"  with a silent "d,"  either due to its honor, as one says: "so-and-so is of great 'qadr' (value or status)," making the addition of "night" an attribution of something to its quality, i.e., the noble night, signifying its immense status, grandeur, rank, etc. {Indeed, We sent it down on a blessed night.} [Surat ad-Dukhān: 3] Alternatively, it could be derived from "taqdīr" (decree), making the addition one of a container to what it contains, i.e., it is the night in which the decree for the year is determined. {On that night, every matter of wisdom is determined.} [Surat ad-Dukhān: 4]

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) informs us in this Hadīth that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that the best fast and night prayer in the sight of Allah, the Almighty, are those of His Prophet Dawūd (peace be upon him). He used to fast one day and not fast on the next day, as this manner of fasting fulfills worship and gives the body its share of rest at the same time. He used to sleep the first half of the night to wake up feeling active enough to perform worship. He would then pray one third of the night then sleep its last sixth to be active for the acts of worship that were to be performed in the early morning. This is the way that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged Muslims to follow.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was told that ‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Amr swore to fast every day and stay in prayer all night without sleep for his entire life. So he asked him whether he had said that and he answered that he had. The Prophet told him that such a commitment would be beyond his endurance, so he should combine worship with rest by fasting and eating; praying at night and sleeping and restricting his voluntary fasting to three days a month, which would grant him the reward of fasting the whole year. However, ‘Abdullāh said that he could handle more than that. He kept asking to do more fasting until he reached its ultimate form, which is fasting like Prophet Dawūd, namely fasting every other day. He asked to do more from a desire to do more good deeds, but the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) told him that there was no fast better than that.

In this Hadīth ‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) informs us that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered the killing of five vicious and harmful animals, whether inside the Sacred Precincts boundaries or outside it, and whether the person is in a state of Ihrām or not. Then he mentioned these five animals: the crow, the kite, the scorpion, the mouse, and the mordacious dog (that which is given to biting). These are five types of animals that were described as vicious for being aggressive and harmful, unlike the rest of the animals. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) enumerated them because they differ in the kind of harm they cause, so other animals that resemble them in harm are included, and are to be killed because of their harm and transgression. Their presence inside the Sacred Precincts does not protect them, and the state of Ihrām does not prevent killing them.

The Companions (may Allah be pleased with him) knew that there is a special appearance for the person in the state of Ihrām. For this reason a man asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) about the permissible things that a Muhrim may wear. Since it would be more appropriate to ask about the things that a Muhrim should avoid to wear, because they are limited, and since the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) always used the fewest most precise words to relay the most comprehensive information, he replied by clarifying what to avoid wearing, thus implying that all the rest is permissible to wear and imparting much knowledge (in a few words). The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) started listing what the Muhrim man is forbidden from wearing, with each item implying that what resembles it is also forbidden. He said: He should not wear a shirt and everything that is tailored and sewn with stitches to be form-fitting. He should not wear a turban or anything that covers the head by being attached to it. He should not wear pants. He should not wear anything that covers a part (or parts) of the body, whether sewn or unsewn, like gloves or leather socks or the like. He should not wear on his legs what covers the ankles, like cotton or wool or leather socks. Whoever does not find sandals/slippers to wear during his Ihrām may wear leather socks but he should cut them so that they would be below his ankles and resemble sandals. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) added additional benefits that were not part of the man’s question but were called for by the situation. He clarified what is impermissible for both the male and female Muhrim to wear, saying that they should not wear any clothes, whether sewn or unsewn, that are perfumed with Saffron or Wars (kinds of scents), indicating by this that all kinds of perfume are to be avoided. Then he explained what is necessary for a woman specifically to avoid in her state of Ihrām; namely covering her face and inserting her hands into what covers them; he said: "and a woman should not wear a face cover or gloves."

Some men among the Prophet's Companions saw in their dreams that the Night of Qadr is in the last seven nights of Ramadan. Thereupon, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: I see that your visions have agreed on the last seven nights of Ramadan. So, whoever seeks it and is keen on pursuing it, let him seek it and pursue it with diligence by increasing the good deeds, as it is more likely to be in the last seven, which start from the 24th night if the month of Ramadan is thirty days, or from the 23rd night if the month is twenty-nine days.

The merit of the Night of Qadr and the encouragement to seek it out.

Out of His wisdom and mercy, Allah has concealed this night so that people would be diligent in performing worship, seeking this night, and their reward would, thus, be abundant.

The Night of Qadr is in the last ten nights of Ramadan, and it is more likely to be in the last seven nights.

The Night of Qadr is one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. It is the night in which Allah Almighty revealed the Qur’an to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). He made this night better than a thousand months in its blessing, its immense significance, and the impact of good deeds performed therein.

It was named "the Night of Qadr,"  with a silent "d,"  either due to its honor, as one says: "so-and-so is of great 'qadr' (value or status)," making the addition of "night" an attribution of something to its quality, i.e., the noble night, signifying its immense status, grandeur, rank, etc. {Indeed, We sent it down on a blessed night.} [Surat ad-Dukhān: 3] Alternatively, it could be derived from "taqdīr" (decree), making the addition of the adverb to what it contains, i.e., it is the night in which the decree for the year is determined. {On that night, every matter of wisdom is determined.} [Surat ad-Dukhān: 4]

According to the Shariah, fasting time begins from dawn to sunset. In this Hadīth, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that the time of breaking the fast is when the night comes from the east and the day retreats from the west; i.e. when the sun sets In another narration: "When the night approaches from this side and the day retreats from that side and the sun sets, then it is time for the fasting person to break his fast." When this time comes, the fasting person should break his fast without delay, otherwise he will be blamed for such a delay. So, he should hasten to break his fast in obedience to Allah, the Almighty, and in compliance with His command, and in order to make the time of worship distinct from other times, and to enable himself to enjoy the permissible pleasures of life. “Then it is time for the fasting person to break his fast” has two possible meanings: 1. He is legally considered to have broken his fast once the time of breaking the fast comes, even if he has taken nothing to break it. Thus, the encouragement in some Hadīths to hasten the break of the fast refers to actual breaking, so as to accord with the Shariah meaning. 2. The time of breaking the fast has come, so he is encouraged to promptly break his fast. This meaning is more appropriate and supported by a narration of Al-Bukhāri, which reads: “The time of breaking the fast has come.”

Zakah is a means of support given by the rich to the poor. Hence, it is not due on anyone who is not rich or has enough resources. Allah, the Almighty, has stated the minimum amount on which Zakah is due. Anyone owns less than the minimum amount is considered poor, and nothing is to be taken from him. Thus, no Zakah is due on the owner of silver unless he has five ounces. Likewise, no Zakah is due on the owner of camels unless he has five camels or more. There is no Zakah on less than five camels. Finally, no Zakah is due on the owner of grains and fruits unless he has five Wasqs (total of 300 Sā‘s).

‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) vowed in the pre-Islamic era that he would seclude himself for worship one night in the Sacred Mosque. So he asked the Prophet about the ruling regarding his vow, which he had made before embracing Islam. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered him to fulfill his vow.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) pointed out the sign that marks the beginning and end of the month of Ramadan, saying: Fast when you see the crescent of Ramadan, but if the clouds prevent you from seeing it, then count thirty days for the month of Sha‘bān. Break your fast when you see the crescent of Shawwāl, but if the clouds prevent you from seeing it, then count thirty days for the month of Ramadan.

Sighting the crescent, not the calculations, is what counts in affirming the beginning of the lunar month.

Ibn al-Mundhir reported scholarly consensus that fasting is not obligatory if the beginning of the month of Ramadan is determined only by calculations without sighting the crescent.

It is obligatory to complete Sha‘bān thirty days in case the crescent of Ramadan cannot be seen due to clouds or the like.

The lunar month is either twenty-nine or thirty days.

It is obligatory to complete Ramadan for thirty days in case the crescent of Shawwāl cannot be seen due to clouds or the like.

Whoever finds himself in a place where there is none to check on Muslims' affairs in fasting, or he does not pay attention to this, then he should be careful about it and should seek it through someone who affirms it either by sighting it himself or by sighting it by one whom he trusts, and he can thus fast and break his fast accordingly.

Jābir ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) describes the Hajj of the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessing be upon him) saying that he and his Companions assumed Ihrām for Hajj. None of them brought sacrificial animals except the Prophet and Talhah ibn ‘Ubaydullāh. ‘Ali ibn Abi Tālib was in Yemen, so he came for Hajj, and out of his profound religious understanding, he assumed his Ihrām and made his intention for Ihrām the same as that of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). When they reached Makkah, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ordered them to dissolve their Ihrām for Hajj and make it for ‘Umrah, and make their Tawāf and Sa‘i for ‘Umrah, then shorten their hair and end their Ihrām. This was for those who did not bring a sacrificial animal. As for the ones who brought a sacrificial animal with them –and the Prophet was one of them – they had to keep their Ihrām after making Tawāf and Sa‘i. The ones who were ordered to alter their Ihrām from Hajj to ‘Umrah said out of astonishment and their sense of the seriousness of the matter: How can we end our Ihrām and have sexual intercourse with our wives then head to Mina for Hajj while we had recently been ritually impure (after intercourse). This reached the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and the fact that they found it difficult, so he calmed them by saying: If I had known what I know now, I wouldn’t have brought the sacrificial animal that prevented me from ending my Ihrām like you all have. So they were satisfied and reassured by his words. ‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) got her menses when they approached Makkah, so she became Qārinah (performing Hajj Qirān), because her menses prevented her from making Tawāf. She performed all the Hajj rituals except Tawāf and Sa‘i. Then when she became pure after her menses ended, and she made Tawāf for her Hajj, she felt sad because the majority of the Companions –including the wives of the Prophet– performed the rituals of ‘Umrah separately and the rituals of Hajj while she had to merge her ‘Umrah with her Hajj. So she said: O Messenger of Allah, you all are leaving after having performed both Hajj and ‘Umrah, and I am leaving with Hajj only. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) consoled her and ordered her brother ‘Abdur-Rahmān to take her to Tan‘īm, and she performed ‘Umrah after Hajj.

Jābir ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) heard the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) say in the year of the Conquest, while he was in Makkah: Allah and His Messenger have forbidden the sale of wine, dead animals, pork, and idols. It was said: O Messenger of Allah, is it permissible to sell the fat of dead animals? It is used to coat ships and daub hides, and people light their lamps with it. He said: No, selling it is forbidden. Then, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: May Allah destroy the Jews and curse them. When Allah forbade them the fat of animals, they melted it and then sold its fat and consumed its price.

An-Nawawi said: Dead animals, alcohol, and swine: Muslims unanimously agreed over the prohibition of selling each of them.

Al-Qādi said: This Hadīth indicates that what is not lawful to eat and utilize is not permissible to sell or consume from its profits, as is the case with the fat mentioned in the Hadīth.

Ibn Hajar said: Its context gives a strong feeling, as interpreted by the majority of scholars, that "it is forbidden" refers to selling, not utilizing.

Every means that leads to making something unlawful as lawful is wrong.

The scholars said: Falling under the general prohibition of selling dead animals is the prohibition to sell the dead body of a disbeliever, if we kill him and the disbelievers ask to buy him or pay compensation for him. It is reported in a Hadīth that Nawfal ibn ‘Abdullāh al-Makhzūmi was killed by Muslims during the battle of the Trench, and the disbelievers paid to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ten thousand Dirhams for his body, but he did not take it, and he gave the body to them.

Some of the Prophet's poor Companions complained to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) about their poverty and inability to give money in charity to attain abundant rewards, as those attained by their wealthy brothers, and to perform good deeds like them, for they pray as we pray, fast as we fast, and give charity from their surplus wealth, but we do not! The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) guided them to charities they could afford, as he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Has Allah not provided for you that which you can give as charity for yourselves?! Saying (Subhānallāh) (Glory be to Allah) is counted as charity for you; also saying (Allāhu Akbar) (Allah is the Greatest) is charity; saying (Alhamdulillāh) (praise be to Allah) is charity; and saying (La ilāha illallāh) (There is no god but Allah) is charity. (Enjoining good) is charity, and (forbidding evil) is charity, and even if one of you has sexual intercourse with his wife, there is charity. They were amazed and said: O Messenger of Allah, does one of us fulfill his desire and receive a reward for it?! He said: Do you not see that if he were to fulfill it in a forbidden way, like adultery or otherwise, would he incur a sin? Similarly, if he fulfills it lawfully, he will have a reward.

The Companions competed with one another in doing good deeds and were keen on attaining great rewards and favor from Allah Almighty.

The abundance of the fields of goodness and the fact that they include every act that a Muslim does with a righteous intention and for a good purpose.

The ease and simplicity of Islam, for every Muslim can find something to do in obedience to Allah.

An-Nawawi said: This is evidence that permissible actions can become acts of obedience through sincere intentions. Sexual intercourse with one's spouse becomes an act of worship if the person intends to fulfill the rights of the wife, treat her kindly as Allah Almighty has commanded, seek a righteous child, maintain one's or the wife's chastity, or prevent both from looking at the forbidden, thinking about it, or desiring it, or for any other righteous purpose.

Giving examples and using analogies to make the topic clearer and of a stronger impact on the listener.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) commanded that one should leave whatever words or deeds he has doubts about, whether they are prohibited or not, unlawful or lawful, and choose instead what is not doubtful—things whose goodness and lawfulness he is certain about, as such things bring tranquility and comfort to the heart, whereas whatever is doubtful sows anxiety and confusion in the heart.

A Muslim should set up his affairs upon certainty and leave whatever is doubtful and should be insightful regarding his religion.

The prohibition of falling into suspicious matters.

If you are seeking tranquility and comfort, then abandon what is doubtful and leave it aside.

Allah is Merciful to His slaves, as He has commanded them with what brings comfort to the soul and mind and has forbidden them from what causes anxiety and confusion.

Zirr ibn Hubaysh came to Safwān ibn ‘Assāl (may Allah be pleased with him), asking him about wiping over the leather socks. Safwān said: What has brought you here, O Zirr? He replied: The pursuit of knowledge. Safwān said: Indeed, the angels lower their wings for the seeker of knowledge, in approval of and honor for what he does. Zirr then said: I have some doubts in my heart about wiping over the socks after defecation and urination, and you are one of the Companions of the Prophet (ﷺ), so I have come to ask you whether you heard the Prophet mention anything about that. Safwān said: Yes. He used to command us when we were traveling, not to remove our leather socks for three days and nights due to minor impurity—such as defecation, urination, or sleep—except in the case of Janābah, for then they must be removed. I (Zirr) said: Did you hear him mention anything about love? He said: Yes. While we were with the Prophet (ﷺ) on a journey, a Bedouin called out in a loud voice: O Muhammad! The Prophet (ﷺ) answered him in a similarly loud voice, close to his tone, saying: Come here. We said to the Bedouin: Woe to you! Lower your voice, for you are in the presence of the Prophet (ﷺ), and you have been forbidden to raise your voice before him. Because of his roughness, the Bedouin replied: By Allah, I will not lower it. Then he said: O Messenger of Allah, a man loves righteous people but has not done deeds like theirs—what about him? The Prophet (ﷺ) said: A person will be with those he loves on the Day of Judgment. Zirr said: Safwān continued telling us until he mentioned a gate of repentance in the direction of the Levant (Shām), which Allah created on the day He created the heavens and the earth—its width is such that a rider could travel across it for forty or seventy years, and it will not be closed until the sun rises from the west.

The virtue of seeking knowledge, the high status of the seeker of knowledge, and the honor and care that the angels show toward him.

Clarifying the great keenness of the Tābi‘is (the generation after the Companions) to seek knowledge from the noble Companions (may Allah be pleased with them).

The permissibility of wiping over the leather socks, with its duration being three days and nights for the traveler, and one day and night for the resident.

Wiping over the leather socks is permitted only in the case of minor Hadath (ritual impurity).

It is permissible for a questioner to ask a scholar whether his answer is based on a textual proof or on reasoning and personal judgment, and the scholar should not be embarrassed by such a question.

Showing proper manners with scholars and righteous people, and lowering one's voice in the knowledge assemblies.

Teaching the ignorant good manners and proper rules of conduct.

Encouragement to follow the example of the Prophet (ﷺ) in his forbearance, excellent character, and in addressing people according to their knowledge and understanding.

Al-Mubārakfūrī said: The Prophet (ﷺ) raised his voice out of compassion for the Bedouin, so that his deeds would not be rendered void by the verse: {O you who believe, do not raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet}. Thus, he excused him due to his ignorance, and the Prophet (ﷺ) raised his voice to be like his or louder, out of great mercy and compassion toward him.

The importance of keeping the company of righteous people, staying close to them, and loving them.

An-Nawawi said: It does not necessarily entail that being with them means having the same rank and reward as them in every respect.

Opening the door of hope and optimism, giving glad tidings of salvation, and showing gentleness in admonition.

The vastness of Allah's mercy and His opening of the door of repentance.

Encouragement to hasten in repentance, hold oneself accountable, and return to Allah Almighty.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) says that when a Muslim prays in a congregation, his prayer is twenty-something times better than his prayer in his house or his market. Then, he mentioned the reason, saying that when a man makes ablution and perfects it and then goes out to the mosque seeking nothing but prayer, with every step he takes, he is raised one degree and rank, and one sin is erased for him. When he enters the mosque and sits waiting for the prayer, he takes the reward and recompense of prayer as long as he is waiting for the prayer, and the angels supplicate for him provided that he remains in his place where he performed the prayer, saying: "O Allah forgive him! O Allah, have mercy on him! O Allah, accept his repentance!" as long as he does not break his ablution or does not do something that may harm the people or the angels.

The prayer of the one who prays alone in his house or workplace is valid; however, he is held sinful for abandoning the congregation without a valid excuse.

The prayer in congregation at the mosque is twenty-five, twenty-six, or twenty-seven times better than one's prayer alone.

Supplicating in favor of the believers is from the duties of the angels.

The merit of performing ablution before going to the mosque.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) pointed out that we should avert harm from ourselves and others in all its kinds and manifestations. It is equally impermissible for anyone to harm himself or harm others. It is also not permissible to respond to harm with harm, for harm will not be removed with harm, except by way of legal retribution, without transgression. Then, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) warned that whoever harms people will be harmed, and whoever makes things hard for people will find hardship.

It is prohibited to respond to harm with more than its equivalent.

Allah did not enjoin upon His servants anything harmful to them.

It is prohibited to cause or reciprocate harm with words, deeds, or lack of action.

Recompense is of the same type as the deed. So, whoever causes harm, Allah harms him, and whoever makes things difficult, Allah makes things difficult for him.

One of the Sha‘i rules is that "harm should be removed", for the Shariah disapproves of harming and condemns harming.

The Prophet (ﷺ) clarified that a Muslim is inviolable unless he commits one of the three: First: He who commits adultery after being legally married, it is lawful that he be stoned to death. Second: He who intentionally kills an inviolable person unlawfully is killed with the relevant conditions. Third: He who separates from the Islamic body, either by leaving his religion of Islam altogether by apostatizing, or departs from it by abandoning part of it, without apostasy, like those who engage in transgression, highway robbery, and rebels such as the Kharijites and others.

It is prohibited to do any of these three things. He who commits any of them deserves the death penalty, either for Kufr (disbelief), which applies to apostates from Islam, or as a legal punishment, which applies in the cases of a married adulterer and an intentional murderer.

It is obligatory to safeguard our honor and keep it untainted.

The Hadīth indicates that it is obligatory to respect Muslims and that their blood is inviolable.

We are urged to stick to the Muslim community and not to separate from it.

The excellence of the Prophet's method of teaching (ﷺ) as his speech is sometimes divided into points, such that the issues are listed and combined. This is quicker to memorize.

Allah legislated legal punishments to deter criminals, protect society, and preserve it from crimes.

Implementation of the legal punishments lies within the authority of the ruler.

The causes that warrant killing are more than three, but they do not fall outside these categories. Ibn al-‘Arabi al-Māliki said: They never go beyond these three under any circumstance; for whoever practices sorcery or insults a Prophet of Allah has committed disbelief, and thus falls under the category of the one who has abandoned his religion.

Yazīd ibn al-Akhnas left some dirhams with a man in the mosque to give them in charity to the poor. His son Ma‘in came and took them, so Yazīd said to him: "I did not intend to spend these dirhams in charity on you." So they went to seek judgment from the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who said to them: "For you, Yazīd, is the reward of what you intended, because your charity reached a poor Muslim. So the reward is due to you for your intention. And for you, Ma‘in, is what you took, because you took it rightfully." His son was, indeed, from among those who deserved charity.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) pointed out that if people were to be given on the mere basis of their claims without proof or evidence, people would claim the property and blood of others. However, a plaintiff is required to produce evidence and proof for his claim. If he has no proof, the claim shall be presented to the defendant, and in case he denies it, he is required to take an oath, after which he shall be acquitted.

Ibn Daqīq al-Eid said: This Hadīth constitutes one of the fundamentals of rulings and the best reference when dispute and conflict occurs.

The Shariah came to protect people’s property and blood from manipulation.

A judge should not rule according to his knowledge, but he should refer to clear evidence.

If anyone claims without evidence, it shall be rejected, whether it pertains to rights and transactions or the issues of Imān and knowledge.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed us that if he forbade us from something, we must avoid it without exception, and if he ordered us to do something, we have to do it as much as we can. He then warned us against being like some of the previous nations, who asked their prophets excessive questions and disagreed with them, so Allah punished them with different types of destruction and ruin. We should therefore avoid being like them, so we will not be destroyed in the ways that they were.

It enjoins compliance with the commands and prohibitions.

We are not permitted to do anything of the prohibitions. With regard to the commands, however, we are required to comply according to our abilities. This is because the abandonment of something falls within one’s capacity, whereas taking a certain action requires ability.

It is prohibited to ask a lot of questions. The scholars divided questions into two types, one of which aims at learning things needed in the religion. This type is required, and it applies to questions the Companions used to ask. The other type is such questions that are posed by way of obstinacy and affectation, which is prohibited.

It warns the Ummah of disobeying the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him), as happened in the past nations.

When something is prohibited, this applies to any part of it, great or small, for avoiding it requires avoidance of the action altogether. For example, we are prohibited from usury, and this applies to any amount of it, big or small.

We are required to shun the means conducive to something prohibited, for this falls under the meaning of avoidance.

Man has certain capacity and ability, as indicated by his words: “As much as you can.” This refutes the claim by the Jabriyyah (Determinism) doctrine that man has no ability because he is forced to do whatever he does; even when a person moves his hand during his speech, this, according to them, is out of his control and he is compelled to do so. This view is undoubtedly wrong, and it results in great evils.

When a person hears a command from the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him), he should not ask whether it is obligatory or recommended; for he said: “Do it as much as you can.”

Whatever the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) commanded or prohibited is part of the Shariah, whether it exists in the Qur’an or not. We should observe the Sunnah if introduced something not in the Qur’an, be it a command or a prohibition.

One of the means to ruin is posing a lot of questions, especially about things that cannot be realized, like matters related to the unseen, the names and attributes of Allah, and the events on the Day of Judgment. Do not ask a lot about such matters, lest you ruin your life and become an obstinate and unnecessarily inquisitive person.

The past nations were ruined due to their frequent questioning and disobeying their prophets.

Allah, Glorified and Exalted, presented the deeds of all Muslims to our Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and he found the removal of harmful things from the road among the good deeds, and spitting in the mosque and not removing the spit by burying it or by any other way is among the bad deeds.

If the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) missed the voluntary night prayer because of sickness or something else, he would make it up in the daytime. At night he would pray eleven Rak‘ahs as Witr, but since the Witr time passed, he would pray it as an even number, i.e. twelve Rak‘ahs instead of eleven.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to stand and pray at night until the skin on his feet would crack. ‘Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said to him - thinking that he was worshiping Allah out of fear of sins and seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah, while Allah has already forgiven his sins and he is in no need of that - "Why are you doing this, O Messenger of Allah, while Allah has forgiven your past and future sins?" He replied: "Should I not be a thankful slave." So this worship was an expression of his gratitude towards Allah for His forgiveness.

Abu Burdah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that his father, Abu Mūsa al-Ash‘ari (may Allah be pleased with him), got severely sick and lost consciousness. His head was in the lap of a woman from his family, so she screamed and wailed, but he could not respond to her because of being unconscious. When he regained his consciousness, he said that: He dissociates himself from whoever the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) dissociated himself from, and he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) dissociated himself from the: Sāliqah: a woman who raises her voice in wailing upon calamity. Hāliqah: a woman who shaves her hair upon calamity. Shāqqah: a woman who tears her garment upon calamity. This is because they are from the practices of the pre-Islamic era of ignorance. Instead, one is commanded to be patient in times of calamity and to seek reward from Allah for it.

Tearing the clothes, shaving the hair, and raising the voice in wailing when calamities strike are prohibited and are considered major sins.

Grief and crying, without wailing and raising the voice, are not forbidden, as they do not contradict patience with the decree of Allah; rather, they are a form of mercy.

It is prohibited to express discontent with Allah's painful decrees through speech or actions.

Patience is obligatory in times of calamity.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) forbade the one who ate garlic or onion from going to the mosque so as not to offend his brothers, attending the congregational prayer, with their smell. It is a prohibition of Tanzīh (what is not strictly forbidden) from going to the mosque, not from eating them because they are from the permissible foods. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was brought a pot containing vegetables, and when he sensed an odor therein and was informed of what it contained, he refrained from eating it and brought it near to one of his Companions to eat from it; however, he disliked eating from it in imitation of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), who said upon seeing him: Eat, for indeed, I converse with the angels through the revelation. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that the angels are offended by unpleasant odors just like people.

It is prohibited for whoever ate garlic, onion, or leek to go to mosques.

The same ruling applies to everything that has an unpleasant odor that those praying find offensive, such as the smell of smoke, tobacco, and the like.

The cause of prohibition is the odor. If such an odor no longer exists due to excessive cooking or anything else, then it is no longer disliked.

It is disliked to eat these things for one who has to attend prayer in the mosque, so that he does not miss the congregation in the mosque, as long as he does not eat them as a ploy to escape the obligation of attending, in which case it is prohibited.

The Prophet's abstention from eating garlic and the like is not by way of prohibition but because of conversing with Jibrīl (Gabriel) (peace be upon him).

The Prophet's excellent approach in teaching, as he coupled the ruling with the clarification of its cause to reassure the addressee by letting him know the rationale behind such a ruling.

Al-Qādi said: Based on analogy, scholars decided that this applies to places, other than mosques, where people gather for prayer, like the Eid praying area, funerals, and their likes from places where people gather for worship. The same applies to knowledge and Dhikr assemblies, banquets, and the like. However, this does not apply to markets and similar places.

Scholars said: This Hadīth includes evidence on forbidding one who has eaten garlic and the like from entering the mosque, even if it is empty because it is the angels' place and given the general indication of the Hadīths.

Jābir ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) informs in this Hadīth that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) offered the funeral prayer in absentia for the Negus, and he was amongst those who joined this prayer; however, he does not remember whether he was in the second or the third row, in case he is the one in doubt, and not a sub-narrator.

Messengers of Allah have the most perfect reasons, the firmest hearts, and the best endurance, and they are the best in terms of fulfilling the rights of Allah, the Exalted. Yet, they never went beyond the limits of human nature. The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was the most perfect in all these characteristics. However, he once forgot due to his human nature, so that Allah would legislate for His slaves the rulings regarding forgetfulness in prayer. Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) led his companions in Zhuhr or ‘Asr prayer. Abu Hurayrah actually defined this prayer, but the sub-narrator Ibn Sirīn forgot it. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prayed the first two Rak‘ahs, he finished the prayer by making Taslīm. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) is a perfect man and feels contented only with the perfect work. Therefore, he felt there was a sort of deficiency or fault, but he did not know the source of such feeling. So, he went toward a piece of wood lying across Qiblah of the mosque, leaned upon it, and interlaced his fingers. Those who were in a haste left the mosque through its gates while discussing with one another that something had happened, which was that the prayer had been shortened. Perhaps they thought that forgetfulness could not occur to the one who is a Prophet. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was highly respected, and thus no one dared to discuss this crucial issue with him. Even Abu Bakr and ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with both of them) did not dare to ask him particularly they had seen him in a state of anxiety and depression. A man from the companions called Dhu al-Yadayn broke the silence by asking the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him): "O Messenger of Allah, have you forgotten or has the prayer been shortened?" He did not could not assure any of the two probabilities since both were possible to take place at that time. he to the best of his thought said: "I neither forgot nor was it shortened." When Dhu al-Yadayn realized that the prayer had not been shortened, and he was certain that he prayed only two Rak‘ahs, he knew that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) had forgotten, so he said: "Rather, you have forgotten." The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) wanted to confirm the accuracy of Dhu al-Yadayn's claim, which contradicted his thought that his prayer was complete, so he sought someone to support his statement and asked his companions around him: "Is what Dhu al-Yadayn has said true – that I only prayed two Rak‘ahs?" When they answered in the affirmative, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stepped forward and prayed what he had missed of the prayer. After reciting Tashahhud, he made Taslīm then said: "Allah Akbar" while he was sitting, then prostrated as he normally did or longer. Then he raised his head from prostration and said: "Allah Akbar," then he said it again and prostrated as he normally did or longer. Then he raised his head and said: "Allah Akbar" and ended the prayer by making Taslīm without saying Tashahhud.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that the most beloved places to Allah Almighty are the mosques, for they are houses of worship and acts of obedience and are built upon piety. And the most hated places to Allah are the marketplaces, because they are often filled with deception, fraud, usury, false oaths, broken promises, and heedlessness of the remembrance of Allah.

The sanctity and high status of the mosques, for they are houses in which the Name of Allah is frequently mentioned.

An encouragement to adhere to mosques and to frequent them often in pursuit of Allah's love and pleasure, and to minimize visits to marketplaces except when necessary, to avoid falling into things that incur divine displeasure.

An-Nawawi said: The mosques are places where Allah's mercy descends, while the marketplaces are their opposite.

Upon the start of the last ten days of Ramadan, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) would revive the whole night with various acts of obedience. He would wake up his family to pray. He would exert himself in worship more than he usually did, and he would devote himself entirely to worship and avoid having intimate relations with his wives.

Encouraging the act of taking advantage of honorable times by performing righteous deeds.

An-Nawawi said: As clear from this Hadīth: it is recommended to increase the acts of worship in the last ten days of Ramadan, and it is recommended to revive its nights with acts of worship.

One should be keen on his family's interest by ordering them to engage in worship and be patient with them.

Doing righteous deeds requires resolve, patience, and perseverance.

An-Nawawi said: Scholars held different opinions regarding the meaning of (tightened up the lower garment). It is said: it refers to increasing his efforts in acts of worship beyond his usual practice (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) at other times, i.e., showing diligence in acts of worship. The expression: "I tightened up my lower garment for this matter" means: I am entirely devoted to it, and I give it all my time. It is also said: it is a metaphor for abstaining from women to focus on acts of worship.

Karkara, a man who was in charge of the Prophet's belongings, died, and the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed that he would be in Hellfire being punished for his sin, or that would be the case if Allah did not forgive him. So, the Companions went to find out the reason, and behold! They found in his place a cloack which he had stolen from the war booty.

This Hadīth indicates the permissibility of using ploys and deception in the course of war with the disbelievers; as this would cause harm to the disbelievers and avert losses for Muslims. This is not frowned upon in the Shariah; on the contrary, it is something recommended and desirable. Ibn al-Munayyr (may Allah have mercy upon him) said: "The good war, which attains its complete objective, is the one involving deception, not confrontation, for confrontation involves danger, while deception achieves victory without risk." Treachery and violation of agreements between Muslims and their enemies do not fall under the permissible deception, however. Allah, the Almighty, says: {If you [have reason to] fear from a people betrayal, throw [their treaty] back to them, [putting you] on equal terms. Indeed, Allah does not like traitors} [Sūrat al-Anfāl: 58]. In other words, if you have an agreement with some people and you want to revoke it, you should notify them before going to war against them, so that both of you should become on an equal footing.

Umm Salāmah (may Allah be pleased with her) asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) if she would get a reward in the Hereafter for providing for her children from Abu Salāmah, thus not letting them spread in pursuit of sustenance, or she would not be rewarded because she does that out of compassion for her children. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) told her that she would be rewarded.

Sa‘īd ibn al-Hārith asked Jābir ibn ‘Abdullāh (may Allah be pleased with him) about making ablution after eating food that was touched by fire, i.e. cooked or grilled or the like, whether it was obligatory or not? Jābir replied that it was not obligatory. Then he cited evidence for that. He said that during the lifetime of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) such food was rare. If they happened to find it and eat it, they didn't have napkins to wipe away the grease; rather, they would lick their fingers then rub them in their palms, forearms, and feet. Then they would pray without making a new ablution.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that Jibrīl continued to instruct him that the neighbor, who lives next to one's house, be he a Muslim or a disbeliever, should be taken care of, not hurt, and treated kindly, his rights should be observed, and harm from them should be endured, to the extent that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) thought, due to the great attention given to the neighbor's rights and Jibrīl's repeated instruction about this, that there will come down revelation that gives his neighbor part of his inheritance after his death.

The Hadīth points out the significance of the neighbor's rights and the duty to observe them.

The repeated instruction regarding the neighbor's rights entails that we should honor him, treat him in a kind and benevolent manner, avert harm from him, visit him if he gets sick, congratulate him upon the occurrence of something pleasant, and give him solace upon affliction.

The closer the neighbor's door is, the greater the emphasis upon his right.

The Hadīth shows the perfection of the Shariah and its teachings that achieve the well-being of society, such as kindness to the neighbors and averting harm from them.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) likened the five prayers every day and night and their effect on removing and expiating minor sins and misdeeds to a river at one's door wherefrom he takes a bath five times every day and, thus, nothing of his dirt or filth remains.

Such merit is exclusive to expiating minor sins, whereas major sins require repentance.

The merit of performing the five prayers and observing them while fulfilling their conditions, pillars, obligatory and Sunnah acts.

The martyrs, in general, are five: one who is afflicted with a plague (a deadly epidemic) and dies of it, one who dies from an ailment in his abdomen, one who dies from drowning provided that he went to the sea for a lawful purpose, one who dies from debris, such as a wall falling on him, one who is killed while fighting for the sake of Allah, which is the highest level of martyrdom, and also one who dies in the way of Allah but not in the physical fight. The first four martyrs mentioned are considered martyrs in the Hereafter, meaning that they are not subject to the rulings pertaining to martyrs in this worldly life, so their bodies are washed and funeral prayer is offered over them. The number of martyrs mentioned in the Hadīth is not all inclusive.

The story of ‘Āsim ibn Thābit al-Ansāri and his companions (may Allah be pleased with all of them) shows a clear miracle that was granted to a group of the Companions of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). The Prophet dispatched ten of his Companions to spy on the enemy and report their news to him. As they approached Makkah, some of the Hudhayl tribe came to know about them, so they sent a hundred master archers to deal with them. They tracked them down until they were able to surround them. They pledged not to kill them if they surrendered, but ‘Āsim swore that he would never believe the pledge of a disbeliever, because the disbelievers betrayed Allah, the Exalted, and anyone who betrayed Allah could also betray Allah's servants. They shot at them with their arrows, leaving ‘Āsim and six others dead. The remaining three companions agreed to surrender. The raiders captured them and tied their hands up. Upon seeing this, one of the Companions said that this was the start of them breaking their pledge and swore that he would never go with the raiders; so they killed him. They sold Khubayb and his comrade as slaves in Makkah. A family, whose leader had been killed by Khubayb in the battle of Badr, bought Khubayb believing that this was their opportunity to avenge their leader's death and they kept him as a prisoner. One day, one of the children from the family came up to Khubayb, may Allah be pleased with him. Khubayb felt compassion towards the child, so he lifted him up onto his knee, because the mother was busy with something else. He had previously borrowed a razor from the family to shave his pubic hair, so when the mother saw her child with Khubayb, she was afraid that he would kill him. However, he (may Allah be pleased with him) sensed her fear and assured her that he would never harm him. That mother used to say that she swore by Allah that she had never seen a prisoner better than Khubayb. She said that she saw him eating a bunch of grapes one day, at a time when Makkah had no grapes. She knew this was a blessing granted by Allah to Khubayb while he was a prisoner in Makkah. Nonetheless, the family whose leader had been killed by Khubayb decided to kill him, but out of respect to Makkah, they decided to kill him outside the Sacred Precincts. He asked them to let him pray two Rak‘ahs. After he had finished praying, he told them he that he had wanted to pray more but only prayed two Rak‘ahs because he did not want them to think he was prolonging the prayer because he was afraid of death. He then made the following supplication against them: "O Allah, remove them altogether; slay them one by one, and spare none of them." Allah accepted his supplication and they all died within a year. He recited the following poetic verses: "I do not care how I will be killed as long as I will die in the cause of Allah, as a Muslim. This is for Allah's sake, and if He so wills, He may bless torn and amputated limbs." As for ‘Āsim ibn Thābit (may Allah be pleased with him) who had been killed; a family from the Quraysh whose leader had been killed by ‘Āsim heard about his death. They sent some people to bring a identifiable part of his body [to ensure that he was dead], but Allah, Exalted and Glorified, sent a swarm of bees to hover over his body like a cloud to protect him from them; so they couldn't get close to him and their attempt was vain. This was another miracle that Allah, the Exalted, granted to ‘Āsim (may Allah be pleased with him). Allah, the Exalted, protected his body after his death from the enemies who wanted to mutilate his corpse.

Whenever the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) offered the funeral prayer over a deceased person, he would say what means: "O Allah, forgive all of the Muslims, the living and the dead, the young and the old, the males and the females, the present and the absent. O Allah, whoever of us You give life, let him live while holding firmly to the teachings of Islam, and whoever of us You take his soul in death, let him die in a state of faith. O Allah, do not deprive us of the reward of bearing the calamity of his death, and do not let us go astray after his death."

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) performed the funeral prayer over a deceased from among the Muslims. Then, he said what means: O Allah, so-and-so the son of so-and-so is under Your safety, protection, and seeking Your forgiveness. Make him firm during the questioning and examination in the grave and save him from the torment of the Fire. Indeed, You do not break Your promise and You are worthy of truth. O Allah, forgive him and be merciful to him. You are Oft-Forgiving of sins and Most Merciful by accepting acts of obedience and multiplying rewards.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) called upon his son Ibrahīm when he was near death. The eyes of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) started to flow with tears. ‘Abdur-Rahmān ibn ‘Awf said in astonishment: "And you too O Messenger of Allah?" Meaning: The people are not patient in the face of calamities, and are you too doing as they do? It was as if he was surprised to see the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) in such a state, as he had always been known to encourage patience and forbid impatience. So, he answered him by saying that it was a mercy, meaning: the condition in which you see me is the softness of my heart towards the boy. He followed this with another statement: “Indeed, the eyes shed tears and the heart is grieved, and we do not say except what pleases our Lord,” meaning: we do not show displeasure, rather we show patience. “And indeed, over your departure, O Ibrahīm, we are grieved.” Therefore mercy does not contradict patience or belief in the divine decree.

This Hadīth explains that acts of worship are restricted to matters that have textual evidence. A Muslim is only allowed to perform acts of worship in the way that the pure Shariah has dictated. The Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) explained to the man who asked him to be allowed to travel for the sake of worship - which is a habit of the Christians – that the tourism of the Muslims is to spread Islam across the world and to perform Jihad in the path of Allah to elevate His religion.

This Hadīth encourages spending in the cause of Allah, especially in matters which contribute to the war effort such as horses, she-camels or the like. Allah multiplies the reward for such spending seven hundred times. In the Qur'an, Allah, the Almighty, says: {The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.} When animals are bridled, this enables their owner to control them better. So, it was kind of that man to give bridled she-camels, and as a result Allah rewarded him with seven hundred she-camels, all of which were bridled.

The ritual prayer is a communication between the servant and Allah. So in prayer, one should not allow anything to distract him from this private communication with Allah. Zayd ibn Arqam (may Allah be well pleased with him) says that the Muslims, at the beginning of Islam used to talk to each other during ritual prayers as much as they needed. So one would talk to his companion beside him during the prayer. The Prophet knew of that, but he did not disapprove of it. Since one converses privately with Allah during prayer, no contact should be made with humans. Hence, Allah, the Exalted, commanded the Muslims to observe their prayer with silence, saying: {Maintain with care the [obligatory] prayers and [in particular] the middle prayer and stand before Allah, devoutly obedient} [Sūrat al-Baqarah: 238]. So the Companions came to know from this verse that talking during the prayer is forbidden, and they refrained from talking from that moment on.

Sulayk al-Ghatafāni entered the Prophet's mosque while the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was giving the sermon on Friday. He sat down to listen to the sermon without performing the two-Rak‘ah mosque-greeting prayer. He was either unfamiliar with the ruling on that payer or thought that listening to the sermon was more important than performing it. The Prophet's engagement in giving the sermon did not prevent him from teaching Sulayk; rather, he addressed him asking if he had prayed in the corner of the mosque before he spotted him. When Sulayk said that he had not prayed, the Prophet commanded him to get up and pray two Rak‘ahs. According to a report in Sahīh Muslim, the Prophet asked him to pray two short Rak‘ahs. The Prophet gave instructions to the man in the presence of a big gathering for two reasons: to teach him something that he needed to learn at the time of need and to educate others as well. So for anyone entering the mosque while the Imām is giving the sermon, it is prescribed for him to pray before sitting to listen to it. This Hadīth is evidence for it, along with another Hadīth that reads: "If one of you comes to the mosque on Friday while the Imām is giving the sermon, let him pray two Rak‘ahs and keep them short." Commenting on this Hadīth in his explanation of Sahīh Muslim, An-Nawawi said: "This is an explicit text that may not be subjected to interpretation. I do not think that a scholar who is informed of this wording and believes in its authenticity would go against it."

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) led his Companions in a military expedition. Most of them were walking barefoot, and when their feet became sore from walking, they wrapped rags around them. No fighting took place but the Muslims scared away their enemies. As this Hadīth indicates, the enemies were not in the direction of the prayer as they came from the east of Madīnah. Therefore, the Prophet divided Muslims into two groups: one group stood to pray with him while the other group stood facing the direction of the enemies at the back of the praying group. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prayed one Rak‘ah with the group that was with him then rose for the second Rak‘ah but remained standing while they completed the second Rak‘ah and made Taslīm. They then left to stand facing the direction of the enemies while the other group came and prayed with the Prophet the second Rak‘ah. He remained sitting in the second Rak‘ah while they rose to perform one more Rak‘ah thus completing their prayer, then he made Taslīm with them. Thus, the first group said the opening Takbīr with the Prophet while the second group said the Taslīm with him. So both groups were even, as each had the merit of praying in congregation with the Imām. At the same time, they did not give the enemy a chance to attack them while they were engaged in prayer.

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) mentioned that he accompanied the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) on his journeys and that he accompanied Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, and ‘Uthmān (may Allah be pleased with them) in their travels as well, and all of them used to shorten the four-Rak‘ah prayers into two and never exceeded this number of Rak‘ahs. In other words, they never offered four Rak‘ahs in the obligatory prayers and never performed the supererogatory prayers while on a journey. He mentioned Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, and ‘Uthmān to prove that this ruling was not abrogated – rather, it was applied after the death of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) – and that there is no preponderant objection to that ruling. It is permissible to not shorten the prayer on a journey; however, shortening is preferable, for Allah, the Almighty, says: {When you are on a journey, it is no sin to shorten your prayers.} [Sūrat An-Nisā': 101] The negation of sin here implies that this is a concession and not the original ruling, which is praying the four Rak‘ahs. It is preferable for the traveler to act upon that concession and shorten the prayer in order to comply with the Sunnah of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and avoid the relevant difference in opinion among the scholars, as some of them considered it obligatory, and because it is the opinion preferred by the majority of the scholars.

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) mentioned that they performed Hajj with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) on the Farewell Hajj, and after they had finished their rituals, they moved on to the Sacred Mosque to perform the Tawāf of Ifādah. His wife Safiyyah (may Allah be pleased with her) was with them. When it was the night of departure, Safiyyah got her menses, and the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) desired from her what a husband desires from his wife. ‘Ā'ishah told him that Safiyyah was having her menses. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) thought that she had got her menses before she made the Tawāf of Ifādah. Since this Tawāf is a major pillar of Hajj without which Hajj is not complete, thus, she would prevent them from leaving Makkah until she attained purity from her menses and made Tawāf. So, he, may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him said: "‘Aqra Halqa!", which is a famous statement pronounced without intending its true meaning. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) then asked whether she was going to detain them until she attained purity from her menses and made her Tawāf for her Hajj. They told him that she had already performed it before she got her menses. So, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said that she could depart with them, since nothing was left for her to do except the Farewell Tawāf, which she had a concession to leave off.

Offering prayer over the deceased is a right that is due for every Muslim who dies; male or female, young or old. Samurah ibn Jundub says that he prayed behind the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) the funeral prayer of a woman who had died in her postpartum period, and he stood in line with the middle of her body while leading the prayer.

‘Ā’ishah, Mother of the Believers (may Allah be pleased with her), informs that upon the revelation of {When there comes Allah’s help and the conquest} to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), he complied with the command in the Qur’an and hastened to obey the command of Allah Almighty in His saying: {Then glorify the praise of your Lord, and ask His forgiveness}. Therefore, he used to frequently say in his Rukū‘ (bowing) and Sujūd (prostration) during the prayer, "Glory be to You," and may You be Exalted above any deficiency that does not befit You. "And praise, O Allah, our Lord," praise that is rightfully due to You for the perfection of Your essence, attributes, and actions. "O Allah, forgive me" and erase and overlook my sin.

It is recommended to say this supplication frequently in Rukū‘ and Sujūd.

Seeking forgiveness at the end of one’s life serves as a reminder to conclude acts of worship—especially the prayer—with seeking forgiveness to make up for any shortcomings that might have occurred in them.

The best thing to use in imploring Allah for accepting supplications is mentioning His praises, exalting Him, and declaring Him free from imperfections and flaws.

The merit of seeking Allah's forgiveness and pursuing it in all conditions.

The perfect servitude of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and his compliance with the command of Allah.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) appointed a man in charge of an army unit to be in charge and judge between them so that everything take place in an orderly fashion and without chaos. He chose the most religious, knowledgeable, and expert one of them. For this reason, rulers and scholars were to lead the prayers due to their knowledge and religion. He always concluded his recitation with Sūrat al-Ikhlās in the second Rak‘ah of every prayer because of his love of Allah and His names and attributes. It is natural whenever someone loves something that he increases its remembrance. When they returned to Madīnah, they reported this to the Prophet. So he said: "Ask him why he does this!" Is it a coincidence, or is there a special reason? The leader said: "I do this because this Sūrah contains the attributes of the Most Merciful and I love to repeat it because of this. So the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Inform him, just as he repeats this Sūrah - because of what it contains of Allah's beautiful names and attributes and because he loves it - Allah loves him as well."

An eclipse of the sun occurred during the lifetime of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), so he sent a caller through the streets and markets to call people to pray and invoke Allah, Blessed and Exalted, to forgive them, have mercy on them, and maintain His apparent and hidden blessings upon them. They gathered in his mosque, and he stepped forward to his place where he leads them in prayer. He led them in a prayer that was different from that they were accustomed to due to the occurrence of an extraordinary universal sign. There was no Iqāmah. He began the prayer by saying Takbīr and performed two Rak‘ahs each containing two bows and two prostrations.

The sun eclipsed during the lifetime of the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him). As that was something unfamiliar to the people, he led them in a prayer that was also unfamiliar in its appearance and its manner. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) stood for a long time, bowed for a long time, and then he raised his back up and his recitation was long, but not as long as his first recitation. Then he bowed again, but this time it was shorter than the first time and then he prostrated and prolonged the prostration. He repeated the same thing in the second Rak‘ah, even though it was a little shorter. Every pillar of the prayer was shorter than what preceded it, until he completed bowing four times and performed four prostrations in two Rak‘ahs. Then he finished the prayer, and by that time the sun had appeared again. He delivered a sermon to the people, as he usually would on special occasions. He started by praising Allah and glorifying Him. It happened that the day on which the eclipse occurred was the same day as his son Ibrahīm died. So some of the people said: “The sun eclipsed because Ibrahīm died”, as in the pre-Islamic era they had thought that the sun only eclipsed due to the death or birth of a great person. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) intended to remove such superstitions from their minds and benefit the people through his advice and sincerity in conveying his message, as those beliefs were not based upon authentic textual proofs or sound logic. He wanted to clarify the wisdom behind the eclipse of the sun and the moon, so he said during his sermon: “The sun and the moon are two of the signs of Allah; they do not eclipse on the death or life of anyone”, rather Allah, the Almighty, makes these things occur by His omnipotence to scare His Servants and remind them of His blessings. So if you see an eclipse, turn to Allah, the Almighty, in repentance, supplicate to Him, say Takbīr, pray, and give charity, as such acts can repel anticipated affliction and descending punishment. he then started to explain in detail some of the grave major sins, such as fornication, that cause corruption in society and morals, and necessitate the Wrath and punishment of Allah. He, swore in this sermon, and he is the truthful one, saying: “O followers of Muhammad, by Allah! No one gets more jealously protective than Allah when His male or female servant commits adultery.” The Prophet explained that they knew only a little about the punishment of Allah, and if they knew what he knew, they would be obsessed by fear, they would only laugh a little and cry a lot, and they would be filled with grief. However, Allah has concealed this from them, out of His wisdom.

In this great Hadīth, ‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) described how the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to pray, in order to disseminate the Sunnah and convey the knowledge. The Prophet used to open the prayer with Takbīr of Ihrām; He would start the recitation with the opening chapter of the Qur'an (Sūrat al-Fātihah), which starts with: "All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds." When he bowed from the standing position, he would neither raise nor lower his head, but he would keep it in line with his back. When he rose from bowing, he would stand upright before prostrating. When he lifted his head from prostration, he would not prostrate (again) until he had sat upright. When sitting after every two units, he would say the Tashahhud: "Salutations, prayers, and all good things are for Allah". When he sat, he would spread his left foot out and sit on it and raise his right foot. He used to forbid sitting in the manner of the devil, meaning: resting two feet on the ground with the backs of the feet on the ground and sitting on the buttocks or raising both feet and placing the buttocks between them on the ground. Likewise he forbade resting the forearms on the ground while prostrating, as lions do. Just as he opened the prayer with the Takbīr, he ended it with the Taslīm; the greeting of peace for everyone: the angels, worshipers, and the rest of Allah's servants. So every Muslim who prays should take note of these generalities in his supplications.

‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said that she used to sleep in front of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) when he was praying at night. Due to the narrowness of their home, she would stretch her legs between him and his place of prostration. As long as the Prophet stood praying, ‘Ā'ishah would stretch her feet. When he wanted to prostrate, he would prod her to withdraw her feet. If she had been able to see him sitting down to prostrate, she would have withdrawn her feet by herself, and there would have been no need for poking. However, there were no lights at their home at that time, thus she was not able to see the Prophet and save him the trouble of having to prod her.

The Mother of the Believers ‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) mentions the time when the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to pray Witr at night. He used to pray it at any time at night, without restricting himself to a certain time. Sometimes he would pray it at the beginning of the night after praying ‘Ishā'. Sometimes he would pray in the middle of the night after the first third of the night had passed. Sometimes he would pray in the last part of the night after two thirds had passed, even in the last hour of the night.

The Commander of the Believers ‘Umar ibn al-Khattāb (may Allah be pleased with him) appointed Sa‘d ibn Abi Waqqās (may Allah be pleased with him) as the governor of Kufa, but its people complained to ‘Umar about Sa‘d. They lodged many complaints against Sa‘d and even alleged that Sa‘d did not know how to perform the prayers properly, despite the fact that he was a revered Companion of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and one of the ten who were promised Paradise. Accordingly, ‘Umar sent for Sa‘d and told him that the people of Kufa filed many complaints against him and that they even claimed that he did not pray properly. Sa‘d (may Allah be pleased with him) replied that he used to perform the prayer with them exactly as he learnt it from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) i.e. prolonging the first two Rak‘ahs of the ‘Ishā' prayer and shortening the last two. He mentioned the ‘Ishā' prayer, most likely because it was specifically mentioned by the complainers. ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) commended Sa‘d and praised him saying: "That is what I thought of you, O Abu Is'hāq.” In other words ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) confirmed that Sa‘d was trustworthy, and that he was sure that he used to lead the people in prayer and perform it exactly as the Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him). Nevertheless, ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) investigated the issue by sending men to the people of Kufa in order to inquire about Sa‘d and how he used to carry out his duties, because he knew well that he was responsible as a ruler of all Muslims. Those men went there and did not leave any mosque without asking about Sa’d (may Allah be pleased with him). All the people praised him till they came to the mosque of the tribe of Banu ‘Abs. When they asked the people there, a man stood up and said: "Since you asked; I am bound to tell you that Sa‘d never personally marched in Jihad, nor did he ever divide the spoils of war fairly, nor was he ever fair in judging between people!" The man made three serious accusations against Sa‘d (may Allah be pleased with him) who decided to make three invocations against that man. He asked Allah, the Exalted, to prolong the life of that man, make him poverty stricken throughout the course of his life, and afflict him with trials. Nevertheless, before making these invocations, Sa‘d (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “If this slave of Yours is a liar and got up for showing off and speaking boastfully.” Allah, the Exalted, answered the supplication and that man lived long until his eyebrows became shaggy and fell over his eyelids, because of old age, and suffered poverty as well as trials. Despite his old age, he used to wink at the young girls as they pass by in the roads. This man also used to tell people that he was an old man subjected to trials because of Sa‘d’s invocation.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that the father should command his children - boys and girls - to pray when they are seven years old, and he should teach them what they need to establish prayer. On reaching ten, he should add the beating if they show negligence in observing the prayer. Moreover, he should separate them in beds.

Teaching young children before reaching the age of puberty matters of religion, the most important of which is prayer.

Beating should be for the sake of discipline, not torture, so he should beat in a way that suits the child's circumstance.

The Shariah cares about protecting people's honor and blocks all means that may lead to corruption.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) pointed out that doing certain things constitutes polytheism, including: First: Incantation: The words that involve polytheism, which the people of jāhiliyyah would recite for treatment. Second: Amulets made of beads and the like: They are hung on children, animals, and other things to protect against the evil eye. Third: Love potions: They are made to endear one of the two spouses to the other. These things fall under polytheism, for they turn certain objects as causes, whereas they are neither Shar‘i causes established by proofs nor material causes proved by experiment. As for the Shar'i causes, like the recitation of the Qur'an, or the material ones, like the medicines proved by experiment, they are permissible, provided that we should believe that they are mere means. In contrast, benefit and harm are in Allah's Hands.

The Hadīth urges the preservation of monotheism and creed from anything that may tarnish it.

It is prohibited to use polytheistic incantations, amulets, and love potions.

A person's belief that these three things are causes is minor polytheism, for he considers something to be a cause whereas it is not. As for the belief that these things bring about benefit and cause harm of their own accord, this is major polytheism.

The Hadīth warns against engaging in polytheistic and prohibited causes.

Incantations are prohibited and a form of polytheism, except the ones permitted by the Shariah.

Our hearts should be attached to Allah alone, for the benefit and harm come from Him alone, with no partner. No one brings about benefit, but Allah Almighty and no one averts harm except Him.

Permissible incantations should meet three conditions: 1. The belief that they are mere causes and do not bring about benefit except by Allah's permission. 2. They should involve the Qur'an, the names and attributes of Allah, and Prophetic and legitimate supplications. 3. They should contain understandable words, not hieroglyphs, talismans, or jugglery.

Allah, the Exalted, tests His slaves with many types of trials, so that they will invoke Him alone and remember Him. So, when the earth became barren during the lifetime of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) he went out with the people toward the place where Eid prayer is performed in the desert to ask for rain from Allah, the Exalted, and in order to show more humbleness and need to Allah, the Exalted. So, he faced the direction of Qiblah, where supplication is more likely to be answered, and began to invoke Allah to send down rain for the Muslims and to remove the drought that afflicted them. Out of optimism that their situation would change from drought and hardship to fertility and life of ease, he turned his upper garment inside out, then led the people in Istisqā' prayer. The prayer consisted of two Rak‘ahs in which his recitation of the Qur'an was out loud, because it was a largely congregational prayer.

This Hadīth clarifies the symbol of prayer, which is affirming greatness and glory for Allah, the Almighty, by making Takbīr. Here, Mutarrif narrates that he was praying with ‘Imrān ibn Husayn behind ‘Ali ibn Abi Tālib, who made Takbīr when prostrating and then again when raising his head from the prostration. When standing up after the first Tashahhud, he made Takbīr as well while standing up. Many people have abandoned saying the Takbīr aloud in these positions. After he had finished praying, ‘Imrān took Mutarrif's hand and told him that the prayer of ‘Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) reminded him of the prayer of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who used to make Takbīr in these positions.

‘Ā'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) informed us about the shroud of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) its color, and its number. He was shrouded in three white shrouds made in Yemen. He was not shrouded in a shirt nor a turban. The reason for the increase in the number of shrouds is to cover the deceased as it demands more care, and it is more important than covering the living.

It was the habit of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to recite long Sūrahs in the Fajr prayer, short Sūrahs in the Maghrib prayer, and medium-length Sūrahs in the rest of the five prayers. However, he would sometimes change that habit for the sake of showing the permissibility or for other purposes. This applies to the Hadīth in hand, which mentions that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) recited Sūrat At-Tūr, which is a one of the longer Sūrahs of the "Mufassal" section of the Qur'an in the Maghrib prayer.

It was the habit of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and the rightly guided caliphs to lead the Eid prayer in both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Ad'ha, then they would give the sermon. They would pray first then give the sermon, and Muslims kept doing so until Marwān's era came, so he rose over the pulpit and gave the sermon before the prayer.

The Shariah of our Prophet Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) is distinguished from the other divinely-revealed religions by its tolerance, ease, and the removal or alleviation of all aspects of difficulty and hardships from those competent for religious duties. One of the alleviating aspects is the combining of two prayers that occur within the same range of time. In principle, these prayers should be prayed each in their own specified time. However, it was the custom of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) when he went on a journey to combine the Zhuhr and ‘Asr prayers, either praying them in the time of the Zhuhr prayer or in the time of the ‘Asr prayer. He would also combine the Maghrib and ‘Ishā' prayers, either praying them during the time of the Maghrib prayer or the time of the ‘Ishā' prayer. He would take into consideration what was easier for him and the people who were accompanying him on his journey. So his journey was a reason for combining the prayers during the time of one of them, because the time becomes the time for both prayers. Travel involves a lot of hardship, either in stopping or in proceeding with the journey, so the concession of combining the prayers was only legislated to make matters easy during travel.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) urged Abu Dharr al-Ghifāri (may Allah be pleased with him) that when he cooks broth, he should increase its water and its stock, and he should take care of his neighbors and check on them therewith.

Encouraging kind treatment of neighbors.

It is recommended to exchange gifts among neighbors, as it fosters love and increases affection. This exchange is especially encouraged if the food has a pleasant smell and the need of the neighbor is known.

The encouragement to do good and offer whatever is possible, even if it is little, and to bring joy to fellow Muslims.

This Hadīth highlights the prohibition of extravagance in terms of food, drink and clothes. It is also a command to avoid ostentation and seeking fame when giving charity. Extravagance refers to exceeding the limit in every act or saying: but it is more commonly practiced in spending. The Hadīth corresponds to the verse where Allah, the Almighty, says: {Eat and drink and be not extravagant} [Sūrat al-A‘rāf: 31]. In addition, the Hadīth indicates the prohibition of pride and arrogance. This Hadīth combines all virtues related to one's management of his own affairs. It combines what is good for the soul and body in this world and in the Hereafter. Extravagance in everything is harmful to the body and the way of living. It leads to waste that harms the soul if it follows the body most of the time. As for pride, it harms the soul because it fills it with conceit and it, thus, negatively affects one's afterlife, because it urges him to sins. Pride also badly affects his life because it makes people hate him. Al-Bukhāri reported the following on the authority of Ibn ‘Abbās: "Eat whatever you want and drink whatever you want as long as you avoid extravagance and pride."

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) points out the prohibition of cursing the dead and speaking ill of their honor, and that this is considered among the bad manners. This is because they have reached the result of what they have done, be it righteous or evil. Moreover, cursing the dead does not reach them, but it only hurts the living ones.

The Hadīth proves that cursing the dead is prohibited.

Refraining from cursing the dead serves the living people's interest and protects society from mutual malice and hatred.

The wisdom behind the prohibition of cursing the dead is that they are already facing the consequences of their deeds, and cursing them will avail nothing, and it will only hurt their living relatives.

One should not speak useless words that serve no interest.

The Companions asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) how to invoke Allah's blessings upon him after learning how to greet him in At-Tahiyyāt: "As-salāmu ‘alayka ayyuha an-nabiyy wa rahmatullāhi wa barakātuh (O Prophet, may the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you)..." The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed them of the manner of invoking Allah's blessings upon him and its meaning: "O Allah, bestow Your grace upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad," i.e., mention him, as well as those who follow his religion and the believers from among his relatives, with good praise among the highest assembly of angels. "Just as You bestowed Your grace upon the family of Abraham." As You bestowed Your favor upon the family of Abraham (peace be upon him), namely Abraham, Ismā‘īl (Ishmael), Is-hāq (Isaac), and their offspring and their followers from the believers, so bestow Your favor upon Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). "Verily, You are Praiseworthy, All-Glorious," i.e., You are the Praiseworthy in Your essence, attributes, and acts; the All-Encompassing in Your greatness, sovereignty, and bounty. "O Allah, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad just as You blessed the family of Abraham," i.e., grant him the greatest of goodness and honor and increase it and establish it.

The righteous predecessors used to gift each other with knowledge-related matters.

It is obligatory to invoke Allah's blessings upon the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) during the last Tashahhud in prayer.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) taught his Companions how to greet him and invoke Allah's blessings upon him.

This is the most perfect form of invoking Allah's blessings upon the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him).

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clarified that the prayer is invalid without reciting Surat al-Fātihah, which is one of the pillars of prayer in every Rak‘ah (unit of prayer).

Reciting any Surah instead of Surat al-Fātihah, despite the ability to recite it, is insufficient.

The Rak‘ah in which Surat al-Fātihah is not recited, whether intentionally, ignorantly, or forgetfully, is invalid because it is a pillar and pillars never cease to be due.

The one led in prayer is exempted from reciting Surat al-Fātihah if he catches up with the prayer while the Imam is in the state of bowing.

‘Ā’ishah, Mother of the Believers, (may Allah be pleased with her) informed that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said during his illness that became severe and led to his death: May Allah curse the Jews and Christians and expel them from His mercy, for they took the graves of their prophets as places of worship by building over graves, praying at them, or facing them in worship. Then she (may Allah be pleased with her) said: If it were not for that prohibition and warning from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), and the Companions' fear that his grave might be treated the way the Jews and Christians treated the graves of their prophets, his grave would have been made apparent and prominent.

This is one of his final advices, which indicates its significance and the need to give it careful attention.

The emphatic prohibition and strict forbiddance of taking graves as places of worship or intentionally praying at them, except for the funeral prayer, as this leads to venerating the deceased, circumambulating his grave, touching its corners, or calling upon his name—all of which are acts and means of Shirk (polytheism).

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was so attentive and careful about Tawhīd (monotheism) and fearful about venerating the graves, for this leads to Shirk.

Allah Almighty protected His Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) from having acts of Shirk committed at his grave. He inspired his Companions and those who came after them to safeguard his grave by keeping it from being made prominent.

The Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) adhered to the Prophet's advice and were diligent in preserving Tawhīd.

The prohibition of imitating the Jews and Christians, and that building over graves is one of their practices.

Offering prayer at the graves or towards them falls under taking the graves as places of worship, even if no mosque is built there.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to command people to adopt facilitation, and he used to invite them to that by words and actions. An aspect of facilitation is shortening the prayer while, at the same time, giving the act of worship its due right of completion and perfection. Anas ibn Mālik stated that he never prayed behind an Imām whose prayer was shorter than that of the great Imām, Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) due to his making things easier for those praying behind him so that they would not leave the prayer while wishing to complete it. At the same time, no prayer was more perfect than that of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who used to perform it in the most perfect and complete manner, without neglecting any part; rather, he would perfect it by performing what is obligatory and what is recommended, and this was from the effects of his blessing.

Abu Qilābah said that Mālik ibn al-Huwayrith, who was one of the Companions, approached them in their mosque saying that he had come to them to lead them in prayer, with the intention of teaching them practically how the Messenger (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) prayed. He did that because seeing a practical demonstration of something is easy to understand and lasts a long time in people’s memories. The narrator asked Abu Qilābah how Mālik ibn al-Huwayrith prayed. He replied telling him that it was the same way as their sheikh, Abu Zayd ‘Amr ibn Salāmah al-Jarmi, prayed. The sheikh would sit briefly when he raised his head from prostration and before standing up.

The dwellings of Banu Salāmah, the clan of Mu‘ādh ibn Jabal al-Ansāri (may Allah be pleased with him) were located at the outskirts of Madīnah. Mu‘ādh (may Allah be pleased with him) was earnestly eager to do good deeds. He was keen to attend the prayer with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) due to his love for knowledge and desire to learn it. He took a habit of offering the obligatory prayer in congregation with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). Then he would go to his people and lead them in the same prayer that he had just offered with the Prophet, may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him; in which case it was a voluntary prayer for him but an obligatory one for his people. Mu‘ādh did this with the knowledge of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) who approved this action of his. However, Mu‘ādh prolonged the recitation of the Qur’an in the prayer one time. It is a matter of fact that the Islamic legislation is characterized by tolerance and ease without complicating things for people because this leads to negative consequences, among which is causing aversion to people. When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) learned that Mu‘ādh prolonged the recitation of the Qur’an, he instructed him to shorten the recitation whenever he was leading the people in prayer. He gave him examples of the medium length Sūrahs of Al-Mufassal, such as Sūrat al-A‘la, Sūrat Ash-Shams, and Sūrat al-Layl, to recite in prayer given the fact that the elderly, the weak, and those who had urgent needs prayed behind him. Since prolonging the prayer would cause hardship to such people, it was better to adopt a lenient attitude with them without burdening them with a lengthy prayer. However, if a Muslim is praying alone, he may prolong the prayer as he wishes.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) tells about the merit of going early to the Friday prayer. Earliness starts from sunrise to the coming of the Imām. This is five hours, to be divided into five parts across the time from the rise of the sun to the entering of Imām and ascending the pulpit to deliver the sermon: First: He who takes a complete bath, like the one taken after sexual impurity, and then goes to the mosque on Friday at the first hour is like the one who gives a camel in charity. Second: He who goes at the second hour is like the one who gives a cow in charity. Third: He who goes at the third hour is like the one who gives a horned ram - a male sheep - in charity. Fourth: He who goes at the fourth hour is like the one who gives a chicken in charity. Fifth: He who goes at the fifth hour is like the one who gives an egg in charity. When the Imām comes out, the angels standing at the doors stop recording the names of those who enter the mosque and come to listen to the Dhikr and sermon.

The Hadīth urges us to bathe on Friday, before going to the prayer.

It highlights the merit of going early to the Friday prayer at the first part of the daytime.

It urges us to hasten to perform righteous deeds.

The angels attend the Friday prayer and listen to the sermon.

Angels stand at the doors of mosques, writing down the names of those coming to the Friday prayer, in order as per their arrival.

Ibn Rajab said: His words "Whoever takes a bath on Friday and then goes" indicate that the time of the recommended bath for Friday starts from dawn and ends upon going to the Friday prayer.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) affirms that it is recommended for whoever wants to attend the Friday prayer to take a shower like that which he takes from Janābah (major ritual impurity).

Affirming the Friday Ghusl (ritual bath) and the fact that it is Sunnah for the believer on Friday, preferably just before going to the prayer.

Keenness on being clean and having a pleasant smell is among the Muslim's morals and manners, and this is more emphatic when meeting and sitting with people, especially during the Friday and congregational prayers.

The Hadīth addresses those upon whom the Friday prayer is obligatory because they are the ones who attend it.

It is recommended for the one who attends the Friday prayer to be clean. So, he should take a bath to remove the foul odors from his body, and he should wear perfume. However, if he makes ablution only, it will be sufficient for him.

The Negus, king of Abyssinia, did the Muslim emigrants a generous favor. When Quraysh in Makkah oppressed Muslims, they sought refuge in Abyssinia before there was a Muslim community in Madīnah. There in Abyssinia, the Negus received them well and treated them with hospitality. His sincere intention and lack of arrogance led him to accept the truth and convert to Islam. He died in his country without seeing the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). Because of his favors to Muslims, his high esteem, and dying in a land where no Muslim prayers were said over him, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informed his Companions of his death and took them out to the prayer place to say prayers on him. By this, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) declared that the Negus had converted to Islam and also paid him tribute for his position and generosity. The Prophet's prayer with the Muslim congregation would be an intercession with Allah, the Almighty, in favor of the Negus.

Allah, the Almighty, is kind towards His slaves and He wills to facilitate for them the means of forgiveness. Hence, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) urged us to join the funeral procession and prayer, for this is a type of intercession that leads to mercy. Allah, the Almighty, has made the reward of whoever attends the funeral prayer equal to one Qirāt, and whoever attends the funeral till burial another Qirāt of reward. Such is a great reward whose specific amount is known to our Lord. Since the Companions (may Allah be pleased with him) had no knowledge about how much this reward was, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) tried to bring it closer to their understanding, stating that each Qirāt is like a huge mountain. Such an act entails a great reward because it involves the fulfillment of the rights of one's fellow Muslims, supplication for them, a reminder of death and the Hereafter, giving solace and comfort to the relatives of the deceased, as well as other benefits.

Salāmah ibn al-Akwa‘ (may Allah be pleased with him) mentioned that they used to attend the Friday prayer with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). They used to perform it early to the extent that they would listen to the two sermons, finish the prayer, and go home at a time when the walls had no enough shadow for them to take shelter in. The second version of the Hadīth states that they used to perform the Friday prayer with the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) after the sun passes the meridian then they would return to their homes. Scholars have agreed that the due time of the Friday prayer ends at the same time Zhuhr prayer ends. It is preferable, though, to perform that prayer after the sun passes the meridian because this is what the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to do most of the time. Scholars also unanimously agree on that time. However, it is permissible to perform that prayer just before the sun passes the meridian in case there is a need for that, like in extremely hot weather and there is no shadow to take shelter in, or when people want to set out for Jihad before or around the meridian time.

Friday is a large all-inclusive gathering for the people of a town, and that is why, out of his wisdom, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) used to deliver two sermons on Friday to direct the people towards good and warn them against evil. He used to give the two sermons while standing on the pulpit in order to be more eloquent in teaching and reminding them, in addition to the fact that standing displays the strength and splendor of Islam. When he concluded the first sermon, he would sit for a short while in order to rest, thereby separating the first sermon from the second. Then he would stand and give the second sermon; (he did this) so that the orator would not tire and the listeners would not become bored.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) began the Day of An-Nahr with prayer, then delivered the sermon, and then slaughtered. He used to bring and slaughter the animal in the area of Eid prayer; in order to demonstrate the rituals of Islam, as well as to teach Muslims this ritual. He taught them a condition and a ruling of slaughtering: The one who slaughtered before praying Eid prayer should slaughter another one instead, because the first one was not valid; and whoever has not yet slaughtered should do so while mentioning the name of Allah, so that slaughtering be valid and the slaughtered animal becomes permissible to eat. This Hadīth proves the validity of only this order of these rituals. This Hadīth indicates that the slaughtering time starts after the Eid prayer is concluded; neither by the time of the prayer, nor by slaughtering of the Imām, except the one who is exempted from the Eid prayer, i.e. a traveler.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) delivered a sermon on the Day of Eid al-Ad'ha after having offered the prayer. He explained the rulings of slaughtering and its prescribed time on the day of Eid to the Companions. He added that whoever offered prayer and sacrificed in the same manner as the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) did, his ritual would be properly observed. However, if someone slaughtered his animal before the prescribed time of slaughtering started, then his sacrifice would be considered normal slaughtering for the sake of meat, and not an accepted rite or act of worship. When Abu Burdah heard this, he asked: "O Messenger of Allah, I slaughtered my sheep before the prayer. I know that today is a day of eating and drinking, so I liked to have my sheep as the first thing to be slaughtered at my home. I slaughtered it and ate before coming to the prayer." The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) told him that this was not the prescribed sacrifice and that it would be considered as an animal slaughtered to make use of its meat only. Abu Burdah then told the Prophet that he had a young she-goat which was dearer to him than two sheep; and he asked if slaughtering it would be considered a valid sacrifice for the sake of Allah? The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Yes, but this ruling is for you exclusively and is not generalized for the rest of the Ummah, as a little she-goat is not valid for sacrifice until it has completed one year of age.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) warned against falsely swearing by Allah, knowingly, to unjustly take the right of a Muslim person. The punishment for this is to be deserving of Hellfire and to be deprived of Paradise, and it is considered one of the major sins. A man said: O Messenger of Allah, even if the thing being sworn about is something insignificant? He (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: Even if it is a tooth-stick taken from the Arāk tree.

Being cautious of taking others' rights and being keen on fulfilling them to their rightful owners, no matter how insignificant they are. Moreover, a ruler's erroneous judgment does not permit a person to take what does not belong to him.

An-Nawawi said: The strict prohibition of Muslims' rights, with no difference between a small right or a large one based on the Prophet's statement: "Even if it is a twig of Arāk."

An-Nawawi said: This punishment is for the one who seizes a Muslim's right and dies before repenting. However, the one who repents, regrets his action, returns the right to its owner, seeks his forgiveness, and resolves not to return to such behavior is absolved of sin.

Al-Qādi said: The "Muslim" is specifically mentioned because Muslims are the ones addressed and generally involved in dealing with the Shariah, not because the ruling is different for non-Muslims; rather, the same ruling applies to them in this matter.

An-Nawawi said: Lying is conveying information contrary to reality, whether done intentionally or forgetfully, whether the information pertains to the past or the future.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that if a Muslim performs ablution properly, fulfilling its obligatory elements and observing its Sunnahs and etiquettes, and then goes to the Friday prayer and listens attentively to the preacher, refraining from idle activity, Allah will forgive for him the minor sins committed in ten days, from this Friday prayer to the next Friday prayer, in addition to three days. This is because the reward for a good deed is multiplied tenfold. Then, he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) warned about the lack of attention to the admonitions given in the sermon and any physical diversion, like touching the pebbles and so on, saying that whoever does so has engaged in idle activity, and whoever engages in idle activity does not attain the complete reward of Friday prayer.

The Hadīth urges us to perform ablution completely and perfectly, and regularly observe the Friday prayer.

It highlights the merit of the Friday prayer.

It is obligatory to listen attentively to the Friday sermon and not be distracted from it by talking or anything else.

If a person engages in idle activity during the sermon, the Friday prayer remains valid and the obligation has been fulfilled, though the reward is deficient.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that whoever offers the Fajr prayer is preserved, guarded, and protected by Allah, defending and supporting him. Then, he warns that whoever violates and revokes this covenant, either by failing to perform the Fajr prayer or by harming or attacking one who has performed it, has infringed upon this protection and is therefore worthy of the stern warning that Allah will seize him, due to his failure to observe Allah's right. He will throw him on his face in Hellfire.

The Hadīth shows the significance and merit of the Fajr prayer.

It gives a stern warning against hurting anyone who has offered the Fajr prayer.

Allah Almighty takes revenge against those who harm His righteous servants.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) gave glad tidings to whoever came to the mosque for worship or seeking knowledge or for any other good purpose at any time, be it in the early morning or at the end of the day, that Allah has prepared for him a place and an accommodation in Paradise whenever he goes to the mosque at night or in the morning.

The merit of going to the mosque and encouraging Muslims to observe the congregational prayer therein. One who does not go to mosques misses a great deal of goodness, favor, reward, and the accommodation that Allah Almighty prepares for those who come to His house.

People treat those who visit them in their houses generously and serve them food, and Allah Almighty is, indeed, more generous than His creation. Hence, whoever comes to His house, He treats him with bounty and prepares for him a great and huge abode.

One should feel happy and joyful about going to mosques because an abode is prepared for him every time he goes there in the morning or the evening according to the number of times he goes there.

Whoever passes through mosques, markets, and places where Muslims gather while he has a weapon with him, such as arrows or the like, he should hold it by its head well, in a firm grip, lest it injures any of the Muslims.

Hizb means part of something, like the Hizbs (parts) of the Qur’an. So if one is used to performing the (voluntary) prayer during the night, but he falls asleep and misses it completely or partially, and he then makes up for it between the Fajr prayer and the Zhuhr prayer, it will be as if he prayed it during that night. However, if one is used to perform Witr prayer at night, he must not perform it during the day in case he makes up for what he missed at night. Rather, he should add another Rak‘ah to the Witr. In other words, if he usually prays three Rak‘ahs as Witr, then he should make it four, or if he usually prays five, then let him make it six, and so on. The evidence for this is the Hadīth of ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) who related that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) when he was overcome by sleep or pain during the night, would pray twelve Rak‘ahs during the day. It should be noted that making up (for the missed night prayer) should be done after the sun has risen and has reached the height of a spear's length in order to avoid praying during the time that this is forbidden.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked his family to bring him some food to eat it with bread. They replied that they had nothing but vinegar. So he asked them to bring it and started eating while praising vinegar and saying: "What an excellent dip vinegar is! What an excellent dip vinegar is!" This is a praise of vinegar. Although it is a drink, it is referred to as food. It is acceptable in Arabic to refer to anything that has a taste to be savored as food, as in the Qur'anic verse: {"Indeed, Allah will be testing you with a river. So whoever drinks from it is not of me, and whoever does not taste it is indeed of me.} [Sūrat al-Baqarah: 249]

This Hadīth proves the virtue of mixing with people and socializing with them. It also proves that the believer who mixes and socializes with people, and who patiently bears any harm he may suffer as a result of offering them advice and guidance is better than the one who does not mix or socialize with people preferring to live alone. That is because the latter does not bear the people’s annoyance or harm.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) points out that charity does not decrease wealth. Rather, it protects it from misfortunes and brings great compensation from Allah for its doner. So, it constitutes an increase, not a decrease. And Allah does not increase a person who forgives others, while he has the ability to take revenge or inflict punishment, except in power and honor. And that whoever humbles himself for the sake of Allah, not out of fear from anyone or a desire to flatter him or seek some benefit from him, Allah will reward him by elevation and honor.

All goodness and success lies in complying with the Shariah and doing good, even if some people think otherwise.

When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) came to Madīnah and the people saw him, they rushed toward him. Among them was ‘Abdullāh ibn Salām (may Allah be pleased with him), who was a Jew. As he saw him, he knew that his face was not one of a liar, given the light, beauty, and true awe that appeared on it. The first thing he heard from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was that he urged the people to perform deeds that lead them to enter Paradise, such as the following: First: Spreading and proclaiming the greeting of peace and frequently doing it, greeting those you know and those you do not know. Second: Feeding people through charity, gift, and hospitality. Third: Upholding kinship ties from the father's or mother's side. Fourth: Offering the supererogatory prayer of Qiyām al-Layl while people are asleep.

It is recommended to spread the greeting of peace among the Muslims. As for a non-Muslim, we should not initiate the greeting of peace with him. If he gives the greeting, saying: Assalāmu ‘alaykum (peace be upon you), the response should be: Wa‘alaykum (and upon you).

Anas ibn Mālik (may Allah be pleased with him) called Thābit al-Bunāni and said to him: “Shall I not perform for you the Ruqyah of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him)?” He used to supplicate his Lord on behalf of the sick person to remove the illness, its severity and pain, and to grant him a cure after which no trace of illness remains. Scholars unanimously agree on the permissibility of using Ruqyah when three conditions are met: 1- It is made by reciting the words of Allah, or mentioning His Names or Attributes. 2- It is in Arabic or any other language whose meanings can be clearly identified. It is preferable to use expressions reported in Hadīths. 3- It must be believed that the Ruqyah in itself cannot be effective, rather it may be so only by the decree of Allah, the Exalted.

Whenever the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) visited a sick person, he would supplicate for him saying: O Allah, (remove) and eliminate (the harm) and severe sickness, (Lord of the people), their Creator, and their Sustainer, (and heal) this sick person, (for You), may You be exalted, (are the Healer). I implore You by Your name, the Healer. (There is no healing) that can occur to the sick (except Your healing) and Your well-being, (a healing) that completely (leaves behind) and retains (no illness) or any other sickness.

The Healer is Allah Almighty while the doctor and medicine are merely means that neither benefit nor harm except by Allah's permission.

Visiting the sick is one of the rights among Muslims, and it is even more deserving when it comes to family members.

Encouraging those who visit a sick person to supplicate for him with this blessed and transmitted supplication.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) practiced treatment through the Shariah-approved Ruqyah (faith-healing/incantation) with the Qur’an and good supplications. When he (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) became ill, he would perform Ruqyah on himself, his family members, and others who were unwell.

Ibn Hajar said: There is confusion in supplicating for the recovery of the sick even though illness contains expiation for sins and a source of reward, as affirmed by the Hadīths. The answer is: Supplication itself is an act of worship and does not contradict the reward and expiation of sins, for these are obtained at the onset of illness and through dealing patiently with it. The supplicator is in a win-win position: either he attains his goal or is compensated with some benefit or protection from harm—all are from the grace of Allah Almighty.

The Ash‘aris, who are the people of Abu Mūsa al-Ash‘ari (may Allah be pleased with him) if they ran short of food or they were fighting for the sake of Allah, they would gather their food and divide it evenly among themselves. For this reason, they were most deserving to be ascribed to the Messenger of Allah, (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him); meaning that they belonged to him in terms of honor and love. He also belonged to them in terms of his adherence to these same great morals of altruism and obedience (to Allah).

The Hadīth shows altruism of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and how he preferred that man to have the mantle although he himself was in need of it. The fact that he actually wore it indicates that he was in extreme need of it. A woman came and gave the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) a mantle as a gift. Then a man approached the Prophet and said: 'How beautiful it is!" and asked the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) to give it to him. So the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) took it off, folded it, and gave it to him. Some Hadīth commentators mentioned that one of the lessons learned from this Hadīth is that it is permissible to seek blessings from the traces of the righteous. However, that is not the case. Rather, it is seeking the blessings specifically from the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and none else can be compared to him in terms of virtue and righteousness. Also, the Companions never did that with anyone except the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) neither during his lifetime nor after his death. Had there been any good in it, they would have preceded us in doing it.

A woman from the tribe Juhaynah came to the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) while she was pregnant from adultery and said to him: "O Messenger of Allah, I have committed a sin liable to the legal punishment, so execute the legal punishment on me." She wanted the Prophet to subject her to the prescribed punishment for adultery, which is stoning to death because she was a married woman. So the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) called her guardian and said to him: "Treat her kindly, and bring her to me after she delivers (her baby)." The Prophet ordered him to treat her kindly for fear of what he and her family might do to her because of the disgrace her sin had brought upon them all. So the Prophet told him to be kind to her to prevent them from harming her and as mercy for her since she repented of her sin. He encouraged kindness towards her because people commonly shun the likes of her and might speak to her harshly. After delivering her child, she was brought to the Prophet who ordered her to wait until she weans the child. When she had weaned it, she came to the Prophet so he ordered that the punishment be executed on her. He also ordered that her clothes be secured so that they would not become disarranged during the stoning and thus reveal her body. She was then stoned to death and he offered the funeral prayer over her.

Angel Gabriel (peace be upon him) came to the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and asked him: O Muhammad, are you suffering from illness? He said: Yes. So Gabriel recited Ruqyah on the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), saying: "In the Name of Allah" seeking His aid, "I recite Ruqyah over you" and seek refuge for you "from everything that harms you", whether small or big, "from the evil of every soul" that is malicious "or the eye of an envier" to afflict you, "may Allah cure you", guard you, and protect you from all diseases. "In the Name of Allah, I recite Ruqyah over you" is repeated for emphasis, and it begins and ends with it to signify that none can bring benefit or harm except Allah Almighty.

It is permissible to inform others about one's illness as a way of stating the reality of one's condition, not out of complaint or resentment.

Ruqyah (faith healing) is permissible with the following conditions: 1. It must be done using the Qur’an, or the remembrance of Allah Almighty, and prescribed supplications. 2. It must be in Arabic or in another language whose meaning is known and understood. 3. One must believe that Ruqyah does not have any effect on its own, but that it is merely a means, and that its effectiveness is only by the permission of Allah Almighty. 4. It must be free from any form of Shirk (polytheism), prohibited practices, innovations, or anything that leads to them.

Affirmation of the harm caused by the evil eye, and that it is real, thus one should seek Ruqyah (spiritual protection) against it.

It is recommended to perform Ruqyah with the supplication mentioned in the Hadīth.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), like other human beings, experienced what others experience, including illness.

Allah's care for His Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), His protection for him, and His appointing angels to guard him.

Abu Ash-Sha‘thā' relates in this Hadīth that they were sitting with Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) in the mosque, and the Muezzin proclaimed the Adhān. Then, a man stood up and walked. Meanwhile, Abu Hurayrah kept looking at him to know whether he would leave the mosque or what. Then, when it became clear that the man was actually leaving, Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) stated that this act runs counter to the Prophet’s guidance.

‘Abdullāh ibn ‘Abdur-Rahmān ibn Abi Sa‘sa‘ah reported: Abu Sa‘īd al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him) said to me: "I see that you like sheep and wilderness. So whenever you are with your sheep - or in the wilderness - and you want to call the Adhān, raise your voice, for whoever hears the voice of the Muezzin, whether that be a human being, a Jinn, or any other creature, they will testify in his favor (the Muezzin) on the Day of Judgment." It is said that "any creature" applies to whoever's testimony can be accepted. It is also said that it may generally apply to anything that can hear, even from among the animals, excluding inanimate objects. They will testify that he was one of those who called the Adhān, indicating his merit and highlighting his reward thereby.

One of the aspects of the excellent moral character of the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was that he never flattered people at the expense of Allah's religion; but he never failed to soothe their hearts as well. While the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was in a state of "Ihrām", he happened to pass by As-Sa‘b ibn Jaththāmah (may Allah be pleased with him) who was a skillful archer and runner. So, when the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) passed by him, he hunted a zebra and offered it to him, whereupon the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) refused to accept it. This hurt As-Sa‘b so much; as how would the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) refuse his gift? So, his face changed (due to grief). When the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) noticed that, he soothed his heart, and told him that he only refused it because he was in a state of "Ihrām", and a person in such a state cannot eat from any game that was hunted on his behalf.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was asked who the best of men is. He stated that it is the man who strives in the cause of Allah with his wealth and his life. When asked about the next best man, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "It is the man who isolates himself in a valley to worship Allah and let people be safe from his evil." This means that the man is busy worshiping Allah, keeping away from people, and preventing his evil from coming to them.

While a man was walking through a barren land, he heard a voice coming out of a cloud, saying: “Irrigate the garden of so-and-so.” Thereupon, the cloud drifted in a certain direction and discharged its water over a rocky plain. The streamlets flowed into a channel. This man followed the channel until it reached a garden and he saw the owner of the garden standing in its center, working with his spade to change the course of the water. He asked him: “O slave of Allah, what is your name?” He told his name, which was the same as he heard from the cloud. The owner of the garden then asked him: “O slave of Allah, why did you ask my name?” He replied: “I heard a voice from a cloud which poured down this water, saying: 'Irrigate the garden of so-and-so.' I would like to know the good you do with your garden that made you deserve such an honor.” He said: “Now that you asked me, I will tell you. I estimate the produce of the garden and distribute one-third of it in charity, spend one-third on myself and my family, and invest one-third back into the garden, for cultivation and development.”

When a man calls his wife to fulfill his sexual desire, she should immediately respond to him, even if she is busy doing something that none but her can do, such as baking or cooking.

It is disliked to overburden oneself with worship. If a worshiper feels that sleepiness will overcome him while praying, he should discontinue his prayer or complete it, then lie down and rest lest he unintentionally supplicates against himself because of exhaustion.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) appointed a man named Ibn al-Lutbiyyah to collect the Zakah from the tribe of Banu Sulaym. When he returned to Madīnah, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) held him accountable for what he had collected and how he had spent it. So Ibn al-Lutbiyyah said: This is your wealth, which I collected as Zakah, and this is a gift that was given to me. He (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said to him: Why do you not sit in the house of your father and mother to see whether gifts will be given to you if you are truthful? The rights and duties you were tasked with were the reason for those gifts being offered to you. If you had remained in your home, nothing would have been gifted to you. So, it is not permissible for you to consider it lawful simply because it reached you in the form of a gift. Then the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) ascended the pulpit angrily and delivered a sermon. He praised Allah and glorified Him, then said: To proceed, I appoint one of you to a duty—to oversee what Allah has entrusted to me of Zakah and war spoils. Then he returns from his assignment and says: This is for you, and this was given to me as a gift! Why does he not sit in the house of his father and mother to see if his gift will come to him? By Allah, no one takes anything unlawfully from what is given to him except that he will meet Allah on the Day of Judgment carrying it on his neck—whether it is a groaning camel, a mooing cow, or a bleating sheep. Then he raised his hands forcefully until those sitting saw the whiteness of his armpits, and he said: O Allah, I have conveyed Your ruling to them. Then Abu Humayd as-Sā‘idi (may Allah be pleased with him) informed that: This is what his eyes saw and his ears heard.

The ruler must clarify to those working under him what is required of them and what is prohibited in their duties.

A threat to those who take people's wealth unjustly.

There is no oppressor except that he will come on the Day of Judgment carrying what he wronged others with.

It is obligatory for any employee in any government position to fulfill the responsibilities assigned to him. He is not permitted to accept gifts related to his work. If he receives such gifts, he must place them in the public treasury, and he is not allowed to keep them for himself, because such gifts are a means to evil and a violation of trust.

Ibn Battāl said: This Hadīth indicates that a gift given to a public official is usually offered either as a token of gratitude for a favor, or to win his affection, or out of hope that he will show bias in applying the law. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) pointed out that in such gifts, the official is just like any other Muslim—he has no special privilege over them—and it is not permissible for him to take such gifts exclusively for himself.

An-Nawawi said: This Hadīth makes clear that gifts given to public officials are unlawful and considered a form of Ghulūl (stealing from the spoils of war), because the official has betrayed his trust and responsibility. This is why the Hadīth mentions the punishment: that he will carry what was gifted to him on the Day of Judgment, similar to the punishment for one who steals from the war booty. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) clearly explained in the same Hadīth the reason for the prohibition of the gift: it is due to his position of authority. This is in contrast to a gift given to someone who is not a public official, for such gifts are recommended.

Ibn al-Munayyir said: It is understood from his statement: "Why does he not sit in the house of his father and mother" that it is permissible for a person in public office to accept gifts from someone who used to gift him before assuming that position. Ibn Hajar added: This is, of course, only allowed if the gift does not exceed what was customary before.

The prophetic method in giving advice is to speak generally, not to expose individuals.

Ibn Hajar said: It indicates the legitimacy of holding accountable those who are entrusted with responsibilities or public duties.

Ibn Hajar said: It denotes the permissibility of rebuking the one who makes a mistake.

Raising the hands in supplication is recommended.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that the most perfect people in terms of their faith are those who possess excellent manners, have cheerful faces, do good, speak kind words, and refrain from hurting others. And that the best believers are those who are kindest to their womenfolk - their wives, daughters, sisters, and other female relatives - for they are among the worthiest of good treatment.

The Hadīth points out the merit of good manners and that they are part of faith.

Good deeds are part of faith, and faith increases and decreases.

Islam honors women and encourages kindness to them.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that worldly life and what it contains is but a thing enjoyed for a while and then comes to an end and that the best worldly enjoyment is the righteous wife: when her husband looks at her, she pleases him; if he asks her for something, she obeys him; and when he is away from her, she safeguards him regarding herself and his wealth.

It is permissible to enjoy worldly good things Allah has made lawful for His servants without excess or pride.

A man is encouraged to choose a righteous wife, for she helps him in obeying his Lord.

The best worldly enjoyments are those used in obeying Allah or they are helpful in this regard.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) informs that Allah Almighty said: O son of Adam, spend - the obligatory and recommended spending - and I will increase your sustenance and give you compensation for that and bless it for you.

The Hadīth urges us to give charity and spend in the cause of Allah.

Charitable spending is one of the greatest means for multiplying one's sustenance, attaining blessing therein, and getting compensated by Allah for what was spent.

This is one of the Hadīths the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) narrated about his Lord. They are called qudsi or divine Hadīths, and their wordings and meanings are attributed to Allah. However, qudsi Hadīths do not possess the traits of the Qur'an that distinguish it from anything else, like reciting it as a form of worship, getting purified for it, presenting it as a challenge, its miraculousness, etc.

A Bedouin man got up and started to urinate inside the Prophet’s Mosque. So, the people attacked him with their tongues, not with their hands; i.e. they shouted at him in scorn. So, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked them to leave him alone, and when the man finished urinating, the Prophet ordered them to pour a bucket of water over the place where he urinated, and explained to them that they were callers to facilitating matters, not to making matters difficult and thus causing people to turn away from guidance.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) slaughtered a sheep then they gave all of it in charity except its shoulder. So he said to ‘Ā’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) that all of the sheep remains for them with Allah, the Almighty, as a reward that they will receive in the Hereafter, because it was given out in charity. As to the part that was not given out in charity (the shoulder), it is actually not left for them because it is not rewarded.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) mentioned some types of expenditure, saying: A dinar you spent in striving in the cause of Allah, a dinar you spent on freeing a slave from slavery and servitude, a dinar you gave in charity to a needy and poor person, and a dinar you spent on your family and dependents. He then informed that the greatest reward with Allah is the dinar you spent on your family, dependents, and those for whom you are financially responsible.

Numerous ways of spending in the cause of Allah.

Giving priority to those who are more deserving in terms of spending when there are more people to spend on, such as spending on one's family when one cannot spend on all others.

An-Nawawi, in his explanation of Sahīh Muslim, said: Encouraging spending on one's dependents and pointing out the great reward in doing so. Among them are those whose support is obligatory due to blood relations, some for whom it is recommended and is deemed charity as well as a means of maintaining ties, and some for whom it is obligatory due to marriage or ownership of a slave. All of this is highly commendable and encouraged, and it is superior to voluntary charity.

As-Sindi said: His statement (a dinar he spent on his dependents) means that if one intends it for the sake of Allah and intends to fulfill the rights of one's dependents, for example.

Abu Qilābah said: Who could obtain a greater reward than a man who spends on small dependents and saves them from want, or Allah benefits them through him and makes them self-sufficient?!