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Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-26-2012
TRANSLATION EDITED
BY
MUFTI AFZAL HOOSEN
ELIAS
The First Taraaweeh
This summary covers the first one and a quarter paras of the Qur'aan,
beginning with Surah Faatiha and concluding with verse 176 of Surah
Baqara.
START FIRST PARA.
Surah Faatiha is usually referred to as “Al Hamd Shareef.”
Although this Surah was not the first Surah of the Qur'aan to be
... revealed, it is the first to be written in Qur'aanic manuscripts and
the first to be recited when commencing recitation (Tilaawah) of
the Qur'aan.
Surah Faatiha is a du’aa (supplication) that Allaah has taught
mankind. Therefore, when a person recites Surah Faatiha, s/he is
actually making a du’aa to Allaah. The rest of the Qur'aan follows
as a reply to this du’aa. In this du’aa a person pleads to Allaah to
show him the straight path (“Siraatul Mustaqeem”). Thereafter,
Allaah gives man the entire Qur'aan as the guidance he asked for
and as a description of the “Siraatul Mustaqeem” which he wants
to tread.
“Surah Baqara” follows “Surah Faatiha”, in which Allaah says that
the Qur'aan is a guide for people who revere and respect Allaah.
Therefore, The Quraan may be of no use to those who have no
desire for guidance and direction. Such people will be deprived of
its illumination and shall remain deaf, dumb and blind. In Surah
Baqara, Allaah invokes man to believe in the unseen, to establish
salaah and to spend in Allaah’s way from the provisions that He
has granted. The details of Imaan are described as belief in the
Qur'aan, belief in all the Prophets and the previously revealed
Divine Scriptures and conviction in the Hereafter.
Allaah also warns people against hypocrisy, warns the kuffaar
about the punishment of Jahannam, while also conveying the
glad tidings of Jannah to the Mu'mineen. It is in this part of
“Surah Baqara” that Allaah speaks about the creation of Hadhrat
Aadam (A.S) and his appointment as Allaah’s viceroy on earth.
The test between the knowledge of Hadhrat Aadam (A.S) and the
angels is mentioned, together with Allaah’s command do the
angels prostrate before Hadhrat Aadam (A.S). While all the
angels complied, Iblees refused. As a result of this arrogance, he
was cursed and expelled from Heaven. Thereafter, the accursed
Iblees tricked Hadhrat Adam (A.S) and Hadhrat Hawwa (A.S) into
eating from the forbidden tree. They were then sent to live on
earth. They repented to Allaah and were forgiven.
Allaah also speaks of the time when He summoned Hadhrat
Moosa (A.S) to Mount Toor to receive the Torah. In his absence,
the Bani Israa'eel began to worship the calf. However, they were
eventually forgiven for this act. On a daily basis Allaah provided
them with “Mann” and “Salwa” to eat from the heavens, and also
provided water for them from twelve springs that gushed from a
rock. Allaah describes how the Jews were ungrateful for Allaah’s
bounties and how they behaved rebelliously and insolently. This,
together with their hypocritical conduct drew Allaah’s punishment
upon them.
Thereafter, Allaah speaks about Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S) who was
successful in every trial that Allaah placed on him. As a reward
for this, Allaah made him a leader of mankind. Allaah
commanded him and his son Hadhrat Isma'eel (A.S) to construct
the Kaa'ba, which they duly did. Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S) made
du’aa to Allaah to raise a prophet from amongst his progeny who
would be a guide for mankind. Allaah accepted this du’aa by
raising Hadhrat Muhammed (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) as a
messenger to the universe, via whom guidance spread
throughout the world.
END OF 1ST PARA – START OF 2ND PARA
The beginning of the second para discusses the change of Qibla.
Allaah commands the Muslims to face towards the Kaa'ba instead
of Baitul Muqaddas (Jerusalem) when performing salaah.
Consequently, Muslims will always be required to face towards
the Kaa'ba wherever they may be. Allaah also prohibits the eating
of carrion (dead animals), blood, swine and all animals that have
been sacrificed with the name of any being besides Allaah.See More
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-26-2012
*** The Second Taraaweeh ***
This summary of the 2nd Taraweeh begins at the second quarter of the second
para and concludes at the midway into the third para (verse 18) of Surah Aal
Imraan.
To a very large extent, Surah Baqara discusses the complete
message of Islam, dealing with matters such as the rights of
Allaah, the rights of man, the way of life and the principles of
social interaction. It... also outlines the laws pertaining to salaah,
zakaah and hajj. In addition to this, charity, social welfare,
mutual consultation, marriage, divorce, Iddah (waiting period
after a woman is divorced or widowed), bequests, commerce and
giving loans are also discussed. The Surah also presents many
commands and prohibitions, devoting much attention to matters
that are permissible and those that are not. These may be
referred to as a complete code of life.
The details of Imaan and the criteria of Imaan are also discussed
in this part of the Surah. Allaah emphasises that people should
believe in Allaah, His Prophet (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), the
Day of Qiyaamah, the angels, all His other Ambiya (A.S) and all
the Divine Scriptures that were revealed to various Ambiya (A.S)
during their respective periods. Allaah also commands Muslims to
spend generously on their parents, relatives, the poor, orphans,
travellers and slaves who wish to purchase their freedom.
Allaah commands that a murderer be executed (Qisaas).
However, if the heirs of the murdered person choose rather to
accept the blood money, it will have to be paid. Fasting is
ordained in this Surah, but people who are unable to fast have
been granted certain concessions. Allaah makes it clear that
marriage of Muslims to Mushrikeen men and women is prohibited.
Children are allowed to be suckled for a period of only two years.
END 2ND PARA – START 3RD PARA
Allaah declares all interest-related transactions to be undeniably
haraam towards the end of Surah Baqara. The Surah also relates
the incidents of two Ambiya (A.S) whose hearts Allaah put at
ease when He demonstrated to them how He resurrects the dead.
Throughout Surah Baqara, Allaah repeatedly emphasises the
importance of pondering over the verses of the Qur'aan. At the
very end of the Surah, Allaah teaches man the method of making
du’aa as well as the words to be used.
The first eighteen verses of Surah Aal Imraan make it clear that
only Allaah is worthy of worship, that the Day of Qiyaamah will
certainly dawn and that the people will definitely be rewarded for
their deeds. Allaah tells mankind that the Qur'aan was revealed
to distinguish between truth and falsehood. Allaah also speaks of
the Battle of Badr in this Surah. If the Mu'mineen were to ponder
about the stunning victory that the Muslims earned in this battle,
they can learn volumes about Allaah’s power. The true Mu'mineen
are defined as people who persevere through hardships, who
spend their wealth in Allaah’s way and awaken during the latter
part of the night to beg pardon from Allaah.
See More
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-27-2012
The Third Taraaweeh
This summary of the 3rd Taraweeh commences at verse 18 of Surah Aal
Imraan and concludes at the end of Surah Aal Imraan.
Allaah speaks of Hadhrat Isa (A.S) and his mother Hadhrat
Maryam (A.S). When she was placed in the care of Hadhrat
Zakariyya (A.S), he noticed that she used to eat fruits that were
not in season. Upon enquiry, she told him that it was from Allaah
Who sustains whomsoever He wills without any restrictions. This
Surah mentions the miraculous birth of Hadhrat Isa (A.S) from
Hadhrat Maryam (A.S) without a father. As an infant in his cradle,
Hadhrat Isa (A.S) spoke to the people and attested to his
miraculous birth. This was just one of his many miracles that are
mentioned in the Surah. Allaah assures people that Hadhrat Isa
(A.S) was neither killed nor crucified, but that he was lifted alive
to the heavens. Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) has informed us that Hadhrat Isa (A.S) shall return to this world just
before Qiyaamah to slay Dajjaal. He will then pass away
naturally. However, the Christians adamantly believe that he was
crucified.
The Christians were just as opposed to Islam as the Jews were.
Therefore, Allaah instructed Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wasallam)
to issue a challenge of Mubaahala to them. The term
“Mubaahala” is a challenge between two opposing factions where
each gathers his family members and they collectively invoke
Allaah’s punishment on the opposite faction saying, “O Allaah!
Curse the party of us that is false and lying.” However, the group
of Christians whom Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)
challenged shrank in fear from the challenge.
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-27-2012
The Fourth Taraaweeh
This discussion begins with the last quarter of the fourth para (beginning of
Surah Nisaa), and concludes with the end of the fifth para (verse 147 of Surah
Nisaa).
This part of Surah Aal Imraan discusses both the Battles of Badr
as well as the Battle of Uhud. During the Battle of Badr the
Muslims were only 313 in number and did not even have
sufficient arms to fight with. On the other hand, the Mushrikeen
were over a thousand and were armed to the teeth. However,
Allaah sent thousands of angels to assist the Muslim army and
they convincingly vanquished the enemy. This battle was a
prelude to all the subsequent battle fought.
Consequently, to avenge their defeat at Badr the Mushrikeen of
Makkah mustered a large force to attack Madinah the following
year. The two armies locked in combat near Mount Uhud. The
Muslims were on the brink of victory when a mishap on the part
of some Muslims lost the battle to the kuffaar. Instead of
remaining at their posts as instructed, they left their posts to
gather the booty. As a result of this, the tide of victory was
converted into a bitter defeat which also left a serious injury on
Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)’s face. The
12
Munafiqeen (hypocrites) also plotted against the Muslims and
made every effort to cause discord within the ranks of the
Muslims. In this part of the Surah, Allaah points out the
weaknesses of the Muslims and details corrective measures to
check these.
Allaah also mentions the people who misinterpret the verses of
the Qur'aan to meet their own ends. Such people are warned
about a terrible punishment from Allaah. Allaah also forbids the
Mu'mineen from taking the kuffaar as their confidantes.
Allaah emphatically prohibits false oaths and miserliness. Allaah
also declares that a person’s family and wealth are a trial for him
and should not be regarded as the criteria for salvation. Salvation
can only be attained only by fostering fear of Allaah and
abstinence from sin. The Mu'min sincerely believes in the
Qur'aan, begs Allaah in all sincerity and does not seek payment
from people for reciting the Qur'aan. The rewards for the pious
Mu'mineen are established with their Rabb, where they will
definitely receive it.
Allaah exhorts the Mu'mineen to remain steadfast on the
battlefield when confronted by the enemy and not to falter in
their tracks. Allaah also praises the gentle temperament and
excellent character of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)
towards the spread of Islam.
The following guidance for social reformation is given:
1. Allaah strictly prohibits unlawful earnings and extorting
money and property from others. For example, Allaah enjoins
people to fully restore the wealth and property belonging to
orphans. Allaah also cautions the guardians of orphans
against substituting the good provisions of the orphans with
their inferior ones.
2. Allaah also makes it clear that a man is limited to only four
wives at a time. Allaah also tells man that he should rather
have only one wife if he fears that he would be unable to deal
justly with them all. Due and amicable payment of dowry is
emphasised in Surah Nisaa along with the specific shares of
inheritance to be received by heirs. Of course, Allaah clarifies before dissolving any estate.
3. To purge society of the filth of adultery and fornication,
Allaah has ordained that when four upright persons testify to
witnessing any of these acts, those found guilty must be
severely punished. Allaah also emphasises the importance of
Taubah (repentance), which will be accepted only when it is
sincerely done before a person’s dying moments.
END OF 4TH PARA – START OF 5TH PARA.
4. The laws pertaining to marriage and dowry are discussed.
Allaah enumerates all those women whom a person cannot
marry, as well as those whom he is allowed to marry. Allaah
also states that the stipulated dowry may be increased or
decreased after marriage with the mutual consent of the
couple.
While it is permissible to take a profit from a mutually agreed
contract of sale, extortion and oppression are forbidden in all
circumstances. Jahannam will be the punishment for committing
these grave sins. When a person abstains from major sins and
carries out good deeds, his minor sins are forgiven.
Allaah also says that a wife may be disciplined if she is
disobedient and cannot be controlled. However, it is a grave sin
to search for her faults so that she can be disciplined. If discord
creeps into marriage and the couple cannot reconcile by
themselves, an arbiter should be appointed to mediate in the
matter.
Furthermore, Allaah states that a humiliating punishment will
seize people who are miserly and ungrateful. With regard to the
laws of salaah, Allaah mentions that salaah may not be
performed in a state of impurity and in a state of intoxication. It
is a major sin to perform salaah in any of these conditions. If
water is not available for wudhu or for a bath, a person may
purify himself for salaah by making Tayammum.
Allaah exhorts Muslims to return the trusts that others place in
their possession, and that they should abstain from oppression
14
and treachery. Allaah also commands the Mu'mineen to wage
jihaad; impresses on their minds that martyrdom is an exalted
position and states that fear for death is an act of cowardice for a
Muslim.
Man is told in this part of Surah Nisaa that testimony should be
given truthfully and in unambiguous terms even though it may
have adverse repercussions on oneself or on one’s family
members. Another statement of extreme importance is the verse
where Allaah declares that although He may forgive any sin, He
will never forgive the act of shirk.
END OF 5TH PARA – START OF 6TH PARA.
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-27-2012
The Fifth Taraaweeh
This summary of the 5th Taraweeh covers the entire sixth para together with
the first quarter of the seventh (up to verse 115 of Surah Maa’idah).
One of the central themes of Surah Maa’idah is that the laws of
the Shari'ah must be revered and upheld. In explaining this, the
following injunctions have been highlighted:
1. Hunting is prohibited after entering into the Ihraam for Hajj.
2. Only Halaal animals may be consumed when they are
slaughtered in Allaah’s name. Carrion is haraam, as is the
flesh of:
• pigs,
• those animals that have been slaughtered in the name of
any being besides Allaah,
• those animals that have been throttled,
• those that were beaten to death,
• those that fell to their deaths,
• those killed by collision, and
• those that died after being attacked by wild beasts.3. Allaah tells man that he should never attempt to foretell the
future by means of omens and other means of divining
because such deeds are the practice of sinners. All good and
evil are in Allaah’s control. Allaah tells the Muslims that they
should have firm faith in their Deen of Islam which Allaah has
perfected, thereby completing His enormous bounty on them.
Therefore, Muslims should uphold the sanctity of Islam’s
injunctions and critically distinguish between the lawful and
the unlawful. Muslims are enjoined to abstain from evil and
to be grateful.
Surah Maa’idah contains laws that pertain to man’s religious,
civil, social and political life. This Surah contains detailed
guidance about : -
• The etiquette of the hajj journey
• Revering the beacons of Deen
• The perimeters of halaal and haraam
• Marriage and interaction with the Ahlul Kitaab (Jews and
Christians)
• The laws of wudhu, ghusl and Tayammum
• Dealing with rebellion
• The punishment for robbery and theft
• The prohibition of liquor and gambling
• The Kaffaara (atonement) for breaking vows and
• The detailed laws concerning testimony
Allaah ordains that the hand of a male or female thief is to be cut
off. The Muslims are also warned against taking the Jews and
Christians as friends. Allaah makes it clear that the belief in the
‘Trinity’ constitutes kufr and that enmity and hatred have been
entrenched into the hearts of the kuffaar till Qiyaamah.
Allaah entreats Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) not to
be grieved about the disbelief of the kuffaar because he is not
responsible for them. Surah Maa’idah also states that Jannah is
forbidden for the Mushrikeen and that oppressors will have none
to aid them against Allaah. Allaah says that those people of the
past who adhered to the divine religions of their times will attain
salvation if they firmly believed in Allaah and in the Day of
Qiyaamah.
16
END OF 6TH PARA – START OF 7TH PARA.
Allaah also draws man’s attention to the fact that the person who
forbids something that Allaah has permitted will be guilty of
following his carnal desires (his nafs) instead of Allaah’s
injunctions. An example of this is the concept of monasticism that
the Christians devised by which they would totally forsake the
world and forbid themselves halaal pleasures. This concept is
incorrect and impermissible.
Allaah reminds the Mu'mineen that they will be taken to task for
every oath that they fail to fulfil. The Kaffaara (atonement) for
breaching such a promise is that a person should either feed ten
poor people, clothe them, set a slave free or fast for three days.
Allaah also urges Muslims not to take intoxicants, not to gamble
and not to divine the future. Allaah declares these acts to be
haraam (temptations) of Shaytaan.
Surah Maa’idah mentions how Allaah will question every prophet
about his nation. They will declare that they only did as they
were told and that Allaah alone knows the reality of all hidden
matters. Surah Maa’idah also makes mention of the penalty due
for hunting an animal while in the state of Ihraam. Of course,
every such situation has its own unique set of circumstances,
which will necessitate a unique ruling. These matters should be
referred to the men of knowledge.
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-27-2012
The Sixth Taraaweeh
This summary of the 6th Taraweeh covers the verses from the second quarter
of the seventh para (verse 116 of Surah Maa’idah), and concludes midway
through the eighth para ( up to the end of Surah An’aam).
On the Day of Qiyaamah Allaah will remind Hadhrat Isa (A.S)
about his miraculous birth, about the various miracles that Allaah
allowed him to perform and about the favours that Allaah
bestowed on him and his mother Hadhrat Maryam (A.S). Allaah
will then ask him, “Oh Isa, son of Maryam, did you tell the
people, ‘Take myself and my mother both as deities instead of Allaah?’” Hadhrat Isa (A.S) will deny that he ever encouraged
this and will accede, “You know what is in my heart … I only
told them what You had commanded me with i.e. ‘Worship
Allaah, Who is my Rabb and your Rabb! … If You punish
them, then verily they are Your slaves, and if You pardon
them, then surely You are the Mighty, the Wise.” [verses
116, 117 and 118 of Surah Maa’idah].
Surah An’aam commences after Surah Maa’idah. Allaah mentions
that it has always been the practice of the kuffaar to ridicule the
Ambiya (A.S) and to call them wizards. However, Allaah’s Deen
will always conquer and rise, while the kuffaar will suffer a
terrible doom for their falsehood.
Whereas Allaah provides sustenance to people and does not
require any reward from them, other gods cannot provide
sustenance for their devotees but rather require sustenance from
them. Allaah exhorts Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)
not to be distressed about the aversion of the kuffaar, but to be
patient because Allaah will definitely assist him. The Surah makes
it clear that none will be required to account for the deeds of
another on the Day of Qiyaamah. Every person will be held
responsible for his/her own deeds, when the kuffaar will come to
learn what their plight shall be. On that day, all kingdom will
belong solely to Allaah and none shall have any say in any
matter.
After describing how Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S) recognised Allaah
as his true Deity, Allaah tells the Quraish if Makkah that his
people denied him just as they (the Quraish) deny the message
of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). The conclusion is
drawn from this that the Quraish also stand to face the same
destructive consequences as the people of Hadhrat Ibraheem
(A.S) did.
Allaah also points out that the worst oppressor is the one who lies
about Allaah and who rebels against Allaah’s commands.
Oppressors will never be successful, especially in the Hereafter.
Allaah has promised that the Day of Qiyaamah shall take place.
Allaah advises the Mu'mineen never to swear the gods of others
so that they do not retort by swearing Allaah.
18
END OF 7TH PARA – START OF 8TH PARA.
Allaah commands Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to
announce to the people, “Certainly my Rabb has guided me to
the straight path … Surely my salaah, all my acts of
worship, my life and my death are for Allaah, the Rabb of
the universe. He has no partner. With this have I been
commanded and I am the first of those who surrender.”
[surah An’aam, verses 161, 162 and 163]
The following aspects have been emphasised in this Surah:
1. Never ascribe any as partner to Allaah.
2. Treat parents kindly.
3. Never slay your children for fear of poverty because Allaah
sustains everyone.
4. Never even come close to acts of promiscuity and immodesty.
5. Never take the life of any person without a legal right to do
so.
6. Be just when weighing and measuring.
7. Always speak the truth and implement justice even though it
may impact negatively on one’s relatives.
8. Keep your word to Allaah and to fellow man.
The Taraweeh recitation concludes with the words: “Verily your
Rabb is Swift in punishment and indeed He is the Most
Forgiving, Most Merciful.”
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-27-2012
The Seventh Taraaweeh
The summary of the 7th Taraaweeh commences from the second half of the
eighth para (beginning of Surah A’raaf), and concludes three-quarters into
the ninth para (up to the end of Surah A’raaf).
Much of Surah A’raaf concerns the advent of the Hereafter. In this
regard Allaah instructs man to “Follow what has been
revealed to you from your Rabb and, leaving Him aside, do not follow other companions.” [verse 3] Allaah also says, “We
shall definitely question those to whom messengers were
sent and We will surely question the messengers.” [verse 6]
People will be questioned about whether they followed the
teachings of the Ambiya (A.S) and the Ambiya (A.S) will also be
asked whether they fulfilled the task of propagation and about
the attitude of their people. Every person will definitely have to
pass the scales to have his/her deeds weighed.
Allaah draws man’s attention to the fact that rejecting the truth
like Qiyaamah and Risaalah (prophethood) is an act of Shaytaan.
To illustrate this point, Allaah mentions the disobedience of
Shaytaan when he refused to prostrate to Hadhrat Aadam (A.S)
when Allaah commanded him to do so. Allaah warns man not to
act in a similar manner. Allaah also mentions that He granted
man many favours when He settled him on earth and also
granted him honour by commanding the angels to prostrate
before his father Hadhrat Aadam (A.S). However, despite all
these boons, man is still ungrateful.
Later in the Surah, Allaah cautions man not to transgress the
limits that Allaah has set because “Allaah does not like those
who transgress.” Allaah declares that He has forbidden all acts
of immodesty, be they secret or public. He has also forbidden
people from ascribing partners to Him and ascribing such
statements to Allaah which they have no knowledge of. This is
referred to in verse 33 where Allaah says, “and that you say
against Allaah what you do not know.”
In verse 40 Allaah says, “Indeed those who deny our verses
and are arrogant thereto, the doors of the heavens will not
be opened to them and they will not enter Jannah untill a
camel enters through the eye of a needle.” It will therefore
be impossible for them to enter Jannah. On the other hand, the
righteous ones have been promised entry into Jannah. Therefore,
the Mu'mineen should respond to Allaah’s call with hope and
reverence because Allaah’s mercy is definitely close to the
righteous ones.
20
Thereafter Allaah relates the incidents of several Ambiya (A.S)
and states how the nations of these Ambiya (A.S) refused to
accept the truth, thereby inviting Allaah’s punishment to
annihilate them. These incidents are intended to be lessons for
people so that they accept the message of Rasululllaah
(sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam).
END OF 8TH PARA – START OF 9TH PARA.
After narrating these incidents Allaah says, “When your Rabb
extracted from the backs of the children of Aadam their
progeny and called them to witness over themselves
saying, ‘Am I not your Rabb?’ They replied, ‘Certainly! We
attest thereto.’” [verse 172]
Allaah then says that those people who are greedy and live only
to fulfil their desires are like dogs who pant with their tongues
hanging out. Allaah has made Jahannam for these people
because “They have hearts with which they cannot
understand, they have eyes with which they cannot see
and they have ears with which they cannot hear. (In fact)
They are like animals, but even more deviated.” [verse 179]
Allaah tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that if the
kuffaar call him a wizard or a madman, he should not heed their
taunts and should tell them that he is a warner to them and a
bearer of glad tidings to those who will accept his message.
Allaah also explains to Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wasallam)
that he should bear the harassment of the kuffaar with
tolerance so that any reaction of his should not obstruct the
propogation of Islaam.
In verse 199 Allaah enjoins Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wasallam)
saying, “Adopt forgiveness, enjoin what is right and
ignore the ignorant.” In addition to this, Allaah also commands
Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to engage in Dhikr
morning and evening in the heart as well as verbally. We should
pray to Allaah to grant us the ability to accept the prophethood of
Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) both verbally and
practically. May He also grant us conviction in the Hereafter and
make us amongst those who can sincerely ask from Him.Aameen.
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-27-2012
The Eighth Taraaweeh
This Taraaweeh begins from the last quarter of the ninth para (beginning of
Surah Anfaal) and concludes at the end of the tenth para (verse 93 of Surah
Taubah).
Allaah opens the Surah by discussing the distribution of the spoils
of war. Allaah says, “The spoils of war are for Allaah and His
messenger.” (i.e. Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)
would distribute one-fifth of the booty amongst those who were
deserving). Thereafter Allaah invokes man saying, “So fear
Allaah, correct your mutual relations and obey Allaah and
His messenger if you are believers.” [verse 1].
Allaah then described the true Mu'mineen when He says, “The
believers are those whose hearts tremble when Allaah is
mentioned, whose faith (Imaan) increases when His verses
are recited to them and they trust only in their Rabb. They
are those who establish salaah and spend from what We
have provided for them. These are the true believers! For
them shall be ranks by their Rabb, forgiveness and
bountiful sustenance.” [verses 2, 3, 4]
Allaah makes mention of the assistance that He rendered to the
Muslims during the Battle of Badr when He sent thousands of
angels to fight with them. Allaah also cast fear into the hearts of
the kuffaar despite their overwhelming numbers. Allaah then
declares that there awaits a severe punishment for those who
oppose Allaah and His Prophet (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam).
Thereafter, Allaah exhorts the Mu'mineen to fight in jihaad with
fervour. Allaah says, “Oh you who believe, when you meet
the disbelievers in battle, do not turn your backs to them.”
[verse 15] Allaah says that the person who flees from the
battlefield because of cowardice shall draw Allaah’s wrath upon
himself. Towards the end of the para Allaah says, “Fight them
till no anarchy (kufr) exists and all religion is for Allaah. So
if they desist (from kufr and shirk), then indeed Allaah is
22
Watchful over what they do. If they turn away then know
that Allaah is your Protecting Friend. What a terrific Friend
and what a terrific Helper!” (verses 39 and 40)
END OF 9TH PARA – START OF 10TH PARA.
The tenth para commences with mention of booty. Allaah
declares, “Know that from whatever spoils of war that you
acquire, a fifth thereof shall be for Allaah, His messenger,
the relatives, the poor, the orphans and the travellers.”
[verse 41] The remaining four-fifths will be distributed amongst
the Mujaahideen (the Muslim soldiers who fought in the battle).
Allaah then discusses certain details about the Battle of Badr. In
this discussion Allaah addresses the Mu'mineen saying, “Obey
Allaah and His messenger and do not fall into dispute with
each other, for then you will become cowardly and your
strength will be lost. Be patient, for verily Allaah is with
the patient ones.” [verse 46]
Allaah commands the Muslims further: “Prepare against them
whatever forces of strength you can muster…” [verse 60] In
addition to amassing weapons and battle provisions, Muslims
must always have conviction in Allaah’s assistance. Allaah then
assures the Muslims: “Whatever you may spend in Allaah’s
way will be given to you in full and you will not be
oppressed.” [verse 60]
Addressing Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), Allaah
says, “Oh Prophet (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), exhort
the believers to fight.” [verse 65]. Allaah informs the Muslims
that if they are righteous, resolute and trust firmly in Allaah, they
will be able to vanquish an army larger than themselves.
Prisoners of war should not be captured merely with the intention
of earning ransom money. Towards the end of the Surah, Muslims
are urged to keep religious objectives in mind when migrating or
when waging jihaad. Earning the booty must never be the
objective. Allaah outlines a principle in inheritance at the end of
Surah Anfaal when He says, “Those who are relatives are
closer to each other in Allaah’s Book.” [verse 75] he next Surah is called Surah Taubah because it contains
mention of the Taubah that Allaah accepted from those who failed
to participate in the Battle of Tabook. It is also called Surah
Baraa’ah because Allaah exonerates Himself and Rasululllaah
(sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) from the kuffaar (The Arabic word
“Baraa’ah” means exoneration).
This Surah makes mention of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah which
the Mushrikeen of Makkah eventually broke. Allaah declares,
“Allaah and His messenger have exonerated themselves
from those Mushrikeen with whom you have made a
treaty.” Consequently, “The proclamation from Allaah and
His messenger (was made) on the day of the greater hajj
that verily Allaah and His messenger are exonerated from
the Mushrikeen.” [verses 1 and 3]
After this declaration, all Mushrikeen were banned from entering
the Haram and from making Tawaaf naked. The Muslims are
urged not to take even their closest relatives as friends if they are
kuffaar. Allaah also advises Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wasallam)
not to accept the lame excuses of the Munafiqeen
(hypocrites) when they are reluctant to fight in jihaad. Their
excuses are all concocted and the oaths that they take along with
the excuses are all false. Allaah assures Rasululllaah (sallAllaahualayhi-
wa-sallam) that the oaths of the sinners and Munafiqeen
are hollow and should be ignored because these people were
never Muslims. Allaah warns Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wasallam)
that the Munafiqeen will desert him as soon as they get
the opportunity. Allaah’s curse is on the Munafiqeen men and
women because they are all birds of a feather. Allaah also
forbade Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) from
performing the Janaazah (funeral) salaah for the Munafiqeen.
This Surah also details the recipients of zakaah as:
1. The poor.
2. Slaves who are buying their freedom.
3. The destitute.
4. Those in debt.
5. The collectors of zakaah.
24
6. Those in “Allaah’s path”.
7. Those who need to be inclined to Islam.
8. Travellers.
In brief, Surah Taubah contains the following subject matter:
1. Certain battles and related incidents.
2. The treaties with the Mushrikeen and the declaration of
exoneration from all kuffaar and Mushrikeen.
3. Prohibition of fighting during the days of Hajj.
4. Restriction of entry into the Haram for non-Muslims.
5. The command for the Ahlul Kitaab to either accept Islam or
pay the Jizya.
6. Reproaching those who were negligent in participating in
jihaad.
7. Specifying the recipients of zakaah.
8. Identifying the Munafiqeen and the Mu'mineen.
May Allaah grant us all the Taufeeq to practise upon the
injunctions detailed in this Surah. Aameen.
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-28-2012
The Ninth Taraaweeh
END OF 10TH PARA – START OF 11TH PARA.
This Taraaweeh begins from the start of the eleventh para and concludes at
the termination of the first quarter of the twelfth para (verse 49 of Surah
Hood).
The ending of the tenth para dealt with those Munafiqeen who
concocted excuses to evade conscription into the Muslim army.
There were also many proud Munafiqeen who saw no need to
excuse themselves. The opening verse of the para refers to those
Munafiqeen who came to Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wasallam)
after the Battle of Tabook. Addressing Rasululllaah
(sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), Allaah says, “They will make
excuses to you when you return to them. Tell them, ‘Do not
make excuses, we shall never believe you. Allaah has
already informed us about your condition…” [verse 94]Allaah speaks about people who regard zakaah as a burden on
their shoulders. Allaah says, “Of the villagers are those who
consider what they spend as a tax and they await the illfortunes
of fate to befall you. May the ill fortunes befall
them! Allaah is All Hearing, All Knowing.” [verse 98]
After discussing the Munafiqeen, Allaah speaks about the
Mu'mineen in verse 100 when He says, “The first to lead the
way, from the Muhajireen, the Ansaar, and those who
followed them with sincerity; Allaah is pleased with them
and they are pleased with Him. He has prepared for them
such gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they shall
abide forever. This is the ultimate success.”
Thereafter, Allaah speaks about the masjid of harm (Masjid
Diraar), the underlying purpose of which was to promote
hypocrisy and kufr amongst the Muslims. Allaah condemned its
construction and the Muslims destroyed it. The subsequent verses
make reference to the three Sahaaba (R.A) who failed to
participate in the expedition to Tabook. They were boycotted for
fifty days before Allaah announced the acceptance of their Tauba
in this Surah.
Surah Yunus follows Surah Taubah. Surah Yunus also discusses
the three fundamental issues of:
Tauheed (Oneness of Allaah),
Risaalah [the prophethood of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhiwa-
sallam)]
Aakhirah (the Hereafter).
Attention is drawn to these beliefs by using occurrences and
quoting momentous historical reports which serve to engrave
these beliefs into the mind. Therefore, Allaah commences the
Surah by stating, “These are the verses of the wise Book.
Are people surprised that We sent revelation to a man from
amongst them?” Those who respond to the message of the
Prophet (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) will be guided to
salvation, whereas those who reject will be doomed to destruction
and will not be saved by anyone’s intercession. Allaah then
26
proceeds to warn people of Jahannam and convey the glad tidings
of Jannah to the Mu'mineen.
In verse 12 Allaah speaks about ungrateful people when He says,
“When any adversity afflicts man, he supplicates to Us
lying down, sitting or standing. When We avert the
adversity from him, he continues as if he has never
supplicated to Us for the adversity that afflicted him.”
Allaah then relates the incidents of various Ambiya (A.S) like
Hadhrat Nooh (A.S), Hadhrat Moosa (A.S) and Hadhrat Yunus
(A.S). In narrating these, Allaah impresses on man not to fall into
the same trap that they fell for.
At the end of the Surah Allaah declares, “Say, ‘Oh people!
Certainly the truth has come to you from your Rabb. So
whosoever will be guided shall only receive guidance for
himself. Whosoever will go astray shall only go astray to
his own detriment. I have not been commissioned over
you. Follow what has been revealed to you and persevere
till Allaah passes decision. He is the Best of the deciders.”
[verses 108/9]
END OF 11TH PARA – START OF 12TH PARA.
Surah Hood follows Surah Yunus and contains the incidents of
many a past nation, describing the punishments that afflicted
them because eof their disbelief. Thereafter the Surah illustrates
the scene of Qiyaamah and the rewards and punishment to be
received by various classes of people.
Allaah introduces the Surah by saying, “This is a Book, the
verses of which have been consolidated and then
expounded (coming from) The Wise, The Informed.”
Proceeding further Allaah says, “The responsibility for
sustaining every creature on earth rests with Allaah.”
Allaah then describes how He created the universe. Allaah
challenges man to produce Surahs the like of those in the
Qur'aan if they feel that the Qur'aan is an invention of
Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). However, even if they have to call everyone to their assistance they will never be
able to compose anything like the Qur'aan.
May Allaah grant us all the ability to appreciate all the bounties
that He has granted to us and that He includes us amongst His
grateful servants. May Allaah also grant us the Tawfeeq to
hearken to His every instruction and may He save us from
arrogance and pride. Aameen.
Gift of Taraweeh - Muslimah - 07-29-2012
The Tenth Taraaweeh
This Taraaweeh begins from the second quarter of the twelfth para (verse 50
of Surah Hood) and concludes halfway through the 13th para (verse 18 of
Surah Ra’d).
Allaah states, “And to the Aad We sent their brother Hood.”
Just as the people of Hadhrat Nooh (A.S) remained stubborn in
the disbelief, the people of Hadhrat Hood (A.S) did the same.
Instead of listening to the message of Tauheed, the Aad
exclaimed “Who is more powerful than us?” They were
eventually destroyed. The nation of Thamud followed them. When
they refused to accept the message of Hadhrat Saalih (A.S),
Allaah’s punishment destroyed them as well. Mention is then
made of the people of Hadhrat Loot (A.S) who were extremely
lewd and immoral. As a result of their depravity they also
suffered the same fate as their sister nations before them.
Thereafter, Allaah speaks about the preaching of Hadhrat Shu’aib
(A.S) to the people of Madyan and then about the preaching of
Hadhrat Moosa (A.S) to Fir'oun and his people.
After citing all these incidents Allaah says, “Such is the grasp of
your Rabb when He seized a town that is oppressive.
Indeed His grasp is painful and severe.” [verse 102]
Addressing Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), Allaah
says further, “We narrate to you all the narratives of the
messengers so that your heart may be strengthened
thereby. In these narratives the truth has come to you, as
28
well as an advice and reminder for the believers.” [verse
120]
Allaah then concludes the Surah by saying, “To Allaah belongs
the unseen things of the heavens and the earth and unto
Him alone will all matters return. So worship Him and rely
on Him only. Your Rabb is not unaware of what you do.”
[verse 123]
Surah Yusuf follows Surah Hood. Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhiwa-
sallam) was not aware of the story of Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S), so
the Jews decided to test his prophethood by asking him about
this story. They thought that he would be unable to narrate the
story to them. However, Allaah revealed Surah Yusuf to
Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), thereby stunning the
Jews with its detailed account.
As a boy, Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S) once saw in a dream that eleven
stars, the sun and the moon were prostrating before him. The
eleven stars denoted his eleven step-brother, while the sun and
moon denoted his parents. When he informed his father Hadhrat
Ya'qoob (A.S) about the dream, his father advised him not to
relate the dream to his brothers because they would then become
his sworn enemies.
His brothers had always been jealous of Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S) and
finally threw him in a well one day, making the excuse to their
father that a wolf had devoured him. Some travellers took him
out of the well and sold him as a slave to the chief minister of
Egypt. The minister’s wife was infatuated with Hadhrat Yusuf
(A.S)’s beauty and attempted to seduce him. It was when he
refused to respond to her charms that she had him imprisoned.
While in prison he accurately interpreted the dreams of two fellow
inmates. When one of them was released, he (after some time)
referred the king’s dream to Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S), who interpreted
it correctly and even provided a solution for the problem at hand.
As a result, Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S) became a trusted advisor to the
king and practically ruled Egypt.
END OF 12TH PARA – START OF 13TH PARA. When a severe drought struck Egypt and the surrounding areas,
Egypt had no shortage of grains because Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S) had
proposed to the king from before that they should keep grains in
store from the previous years. Therefore, people from the
neighbouring areas began to flock to Egypt for food. Amongst
those who arrived in Egypt were the brothers of Hadhrat Yusuf
(A.S). Although they failed to recognise him, he recognised them
and returned their money to them without their knowledge. He
also insisted that they bring their youngest brother along on the
next trip.
When they arrived home and found that their money was
returned to them they said, “Oh our father! What more can
we want? Here are our funds returned to us.” [verse 65] On
the next trip they took their youngest brother along with them.
As they started to return home, Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S) detained his
youngest brother in Egypt on some pretext. Hadhrat Ya'qoob
(A.S) turned blind because of excessive weeping over his lost
child. Allaah says, “His eyes turned white with sorrow.”
[verse 84]
When the brothers returned to Egypt for the third time and
Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S) informed them about who he was, they cast
their gazes down in embarrassment and regret. Hadhrat Yusuf
(A.S) told them, “The fact is that whoever adopts taqwa and
is patient (through adversities), then Allaah surely does not
put to waste the reward of those who do good.” [verse 90]
When the brothers begged his forgiveness, Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S)
displayed exemplary character and put them as ease by saying,
“There shall be no reproach on you today. May Allaah
forgive you. He is the Most Merciful of those who show
mercy.” [verse 92]
Upon the request of Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S), Hadhrat Ya'qoob (A.S)
and his entire family arrived in Egypt. When the family was
reunited, they all fell in prostration before Hadhrat Yusuf (A.S).
Thus, the dream he saw in childhood was realised.
At the end of the Surah Allaah states that there are great lessons
in the narratives of the Ambiya (A.S) for people of understanding.
30
Allaah says, “In their narratives there is certainly a lesson
for people of intelligence. This Qur'aan is not a fabricated
tale, but a confirmation to all the scriptures before it, a
detailed explanation of all things, a guidance and a mercy
for the believing folk.” [verse 111]
Surah Ra’d follows Surah Yusuf. This Surah establishes the truth
of the Qur'aan, of Tauheed, Risaalah and Qiyaamah. It also
provides details concerning resurrection. Allaah warns the kuffaar
of severe punishment in the Hereafter, but also states that He
overlooks many sins for which He could well punish people.
Allaah makes it clear that He is Aware of everything that man
does and even has knowledge of what changes take place in the
womb of an expectant mother.
Allaah also emphasises: “Undoubtedly Allaah does not
change the conditions of a nation till they change the
condition within themselves.” [verse 11] Allaah has never
changed the conditions affecting any nation that did not make an
attempt to change their behaviour. Furthermore, Allaah exhorts
man to ward off sins by carrying out good deeds because the
bounties of the Hereafter have been made for the Mu'mineen.
May Allaah grant us the capacity to effect a revolution within our
live styles and make us a means of effecting a favourable change
to our surroundings. May Allaah also grant us the guidance to
carry out good deeds to attain the eternal bliss of Jannah.
Aameen.