Gift of Taraweeh

[Muslimah]

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

[Muslimah]

*** 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

[Muslimah]

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.

[Muslimah]

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

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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.

[Muslimah]

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.

[Muslimah]

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.

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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.”

[Muslimah]

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.

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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.

[Muslimah]

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.

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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.

[Muslimah]

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.

[Muslimah]

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.