10-30-2003, 11:45 AM
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION I COPIED
Bid'a: This means "Innovation" or "Unauthorized Changes." (A new things in Islam, which contradict Islamic teachings) The Prophet forbade people from making any changes to the teachings or practices of Islam. He said such things and people would go to the Hell fire. But if there is some actions being perform to please Allah (s.w.t) and that is within Shariah limits, those are ok and called Bid’a hasana.
Da'wah: This means calling people (to Islam). If you're talking to someone about Islam you're doing Da'wah. A Da'i is the person who does Da'wah.
Deen: Way of Life. Islam is not a religion, it's a way of life.
Dhikr (Thzikr): This means to remember Allah. When you repeat words or sentences over and over so you can meditate on Allah and cleanse your mind, you are doing or making dhikr. Common dhikr phrases are: "La ilaaha illa Allah" (There is no god but Allah.) "Subahanullah wa Bihumdeehee" (Glory to Allah and His is the Praise.)
Saying that last one 100 times gets all your sins forgiven according to the Blessed Prophet. There are many more. Many Muslims like to get those prayer beads to help them keep count but the Prophet said you get more reward if you do it on your fingers alone.
Du'a: This means to call on Allah. Whenever you ask Allah for something, whether out loud or inside, you are calling on Him. You can make du'a in any words, in any language and Allah has promised to respond, although in a way we might not expect. Many Muslims like to learn some of the du'as that the Prophet said, but you can use your own words to talk to your Maker.