We Borrowed This World From Our Children

We are born into an established world, but we enter a relationship with our natural environment with an awareness produced by social life. We approach our natural environment with a style of behavior and thought that we got from our family and close social circle since our childhood. Consequently, we do not see many things not seen or avoided by our social circle. In spite of there being many things in our environment that we need to pay attention to and protect, usually we do not even notice them.
 For either we did not set them up or, seeing them every day, we have become accustomed to them. Only when they no longer exist or become unusable do we notice the air that we breathe every moment; the sun whose light and heat we are dependent upon; greenery that produces oxygen for the air and gives us psychological pleasure; the clear, blue sky that gives us inner expansion; and the sea that attracts people with its emerald green color. We notice them and comprehend at that moment what great value they have for humanity.
This natural order was created by Allah and bestowed upon us. (See Quran 14/32; 16/12, 14; 22/65; 29/61; 31/20; 35/13; 39/5; 45/13.) This is a clear sign of the value Allah gives to man. While the Quran declares that all animate and inanimate creatures on the earth and in the heavens have been created with a certain measure and balance (Al-Hijr 15/16-20; Al-Qamar 54/49), it also points out that man should not destroy this measure and balance while utilizing nature (Al-Rahman 55/7-12). Entering a relationship with nature in a measured and balanced way will result in man's being able to benefit from nature for the longest period of time.
Industrial wastes cause desertification of the land, drying up of our rivers and lakes, and pollution in the seas that prevents fish from living there; forests are destroyed for the sake of urbanization; products are created in the name of civilization, but harm the air. If precautions are not taken against these, the scene confronting us will be terrifying. As an Indian chief said, we did not inherit this world from our ancestors; we borrowed it from our children. Just as we have made the world into a harmful place for ourselves with our irresponsible approach, we are about to leave an uninhabitable world to our children.

It should not be thought that Islam only gives us a number of responsibilities on religious subjects like belief and worship and then leaves other areas of life untouched. Islam gives commands, recommendations and warnings in relation to every aspect of human life. Consequently, there are a number of commands, recommendations and warnings regarding our topic, too. We can list them as follows:

• Islam teaches Muslims to respect all creatures and to not disturb their lives. Every Muslim believes: "The seven heavens and the earth, and all beings therein, declare his glory: there is not a thing but celebrates his praise" (Bani Israil 17/44). In view of this, we can say that Muslims will not/cannot irresponsibly destroy the environment and unconsciously use nature. This matter is an important point in regard to the development of environmental awareness. The relationship with the environment of a person who has this awareness will be measured accordingly. At least he will see the creatures in his environment as his friends and helpers. While benefiting from them, he will be careful not to destroy balance. The statement in the Quran thatwaste is sinful and spendthrifts are brothers of Satan (Al-Araf 7/31; Bani Israil 17/26-27, 29-30; Taha 20/81), and the warning of the Prophet that even running water should not be wasted while taking ablution (Ibn Mace, Ikame, 193) are important bases for the development of environmental awareness among Muslims.
• A Muslim believes that Allah's names are present within himself and that he manifests them. One of God's names is Quddus. Quddus means holy, clean and pure. As a manifestation of this name, Allah constantly cleans natural pollution that appears on earth by means of the ecological system He set up. Thousands of animals that die and plants that dry up every season are chemically changed and cleaned up. In addition, the earth is swept by means of the winds and washed by the rains. At this point a Muslim, as a reflection of the name Quddus, acts with the belief that he, himself, and his environment must be kept clean and does what is necessary. If thought of in relation to this subject, possessing environmental awareness and preventing environmental pollution can be evaluated as taking on the virtues of Allah.
• The Holy Quran declares that Allah has given the duty of re-constructing the world to man. It is said in one verse, "Allah created you in the earth and wants you to build it up" (Al-Hud 11/61). The word "isti'mar" that passes in this verse has been given two meanings by commentators. One of them is: "Allah made you re-constructers of the earth" (Ibn Kesir, Tefsir. 2/450). The second is: "Allah wanted you to re-construct the earth" (Ibd'l-Jevzi, Zadu'l-Masir, Beirut 1984, 4/133). While the first commentary expresses that Allah created man in a form to re-construct the world, the second expresses that He wanted man to re-construct the world. Based on the above verse, Islamic scholars said that it is mandatory for society to do constructive work such as making housing, opening water canals and planting trees (Abu Hayyan, al-Bahru'l-Muhit, Beirut 1992, 6/175). Of course, humans will re-construct the world as a natural or religious duty. But this should be done without damaging nature. Muslim morality demands this.
• Muhammad (pbuh) was an example to Muslims on this subject. Knowing this command well, the Prophet participated in construction activities and tried to make the city where he lived into a developed state. In addition, he declared the Medina and Taif regions as haram in addition to Mecca and prohibited cutting down trees and hunting there. Adiy b. Zaid (ra) related that the Prophet declared a 30 km. area on every side of Medina (approximately 1000 square meters) as a protected grove and prohibited the cutting down of trees and the breaking off of branches (Abu Davud, Menasik, 96). In addition, when the Prophet stopped at Zuraybu't-tawil, a pasture of the Bani Haris tribe near Medina, on his return from the Zu-Qard expedition, they described it as a place where their animals grazed and their women walked around. Our Prophet said, "Whoever cuts down a tree here should definitely plant another in its place" (Belazuri, Futuhu'l-Buldan, Beirut 1987, 17; Ibrahim Canan, Islam ve Çevre Sağlığı, Istanbul 1987, pp. 59-60). When the Taif people were about to become Muslim and sent a delegation to Medina, an article was put in the text of the agreement that the Prophet had prepared to the effect that the Taif region valleys were under protection, that it was prohibited to damage the ground cover there or hunt animals, and that those who did not conform to this law would be punished (Muhammad Hamidullah, Islam Peygamberi, Istanbul 2003, 1/500; Muhammad Hamidullah, al-Vasaiq, Beirut 1969, pp. 236-38, 240; Ali Riza Temel, "Islam'a Gore Insan Cevre Iliskisi," Insan ve Cevre, p. 77). During the caliphate of Omar, Sa'd b. Abi Vakkas (ra) punished someone who did not conform to this law based on this decree (Abu Davud, Menasik, 96). Again, the Prophet forbade the cutting down of the cedar tree in the desert where travelers and animals found shade and he cursed those who cut it (Abu Davud, Adab, 159).

In addition, Muhammad gave orders and recommendations to keep the city where they lived clean, and he was careful about the protection of plants and animals. At this point, commands by the Prophet to clean the masjid and make it smell good with perfume (Tirmizi, Jum'a, 64), to keep the courtyards clean (Tirmizi, Adab, 41), not to make urine in still waters (Buhari, Wudu, 68; Muslim,Taharet, 94-96; Abu Davud, Taharet, 36), and not to dump garbage near drinking water (Servet Armagan, "Islam Cevre Hukukunun Genel Esaslari," Islam ve Cevre, p. 250) should be remembered. Also to be recalled is the news that the man would go to heaven who took water from a well in his shoe and gave it to a dog whose mouth was dried and whose tongue was hanging out from thirst (Buhari, Bed'u'l-halk, 17, Adab, 27) and the news that the woman would go to hell who shut her cat in the house and allowed it to die from hunger (Buhari, Azhan, 90).
These examples show that our exalted Prophet was an example to his followers on the subject of protecting the environment and keeping it clean, as he was on every subject. In addition, these hadiths encouraging the planting of trees are perfect signs of his encouraging sensitivity towards and awareness of the environment: "If you have a sapling and time to plant it close to Doomsday, plant it" (Buhari, Edebu'l-müfred, Cairo 1379, p. 168); "Whoever plants a tree, Allah will write as much merit for him as the produce from the tree" (Ahmed b. Hanbel, Musned, 5/415); "Whoever revives an empty, arid, infertile piece of land will be rewarded for it by Allah. As living creatures benefit from it, charity will be written for the one who revived it" (Munavi, Feyzu'l-kadir, 6/39); "If a Muslim plants a tree, the fruit of that tree that is eaten is definitely charity for that person. Fruit stolen from that tree is again charity for him. Fruit eaten by wild animals is also charity. What birds eat is also charity. Whatever fruit is eaten is charity for the one who planted the tree" (Muslim, Musakat, 7-10, 12; Buhari, Adab, 27; Hars, 1).


http://www.lastprophet.info

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Importance of Sunnah & Hadiths

Rahil Ahmed Khan

Summary

There are two main fundamental sources of knowledge in Islam – The Qur’an and the Hadeeth. Often people associate Islam with teachings and commandments of only Qur’an; this is true for both Muslims and non-Muslims. However this attitude of ignoring the Hadeeth or Sunnah has lead to many misunderstandings about the already misunderstood way of life, Islam. Best example being that of the perception of Islam promoting hatred. Such doubts and baseless allegations arise mostly due to partial study of Islamic literature.

The Qur’an is the directly revealed word of God (Allah) and the Sunnah gives the practical implications of Qur’an. The Sunnah shows how the commandments and teachings mentioned in Qur’an can be put to practice. Sunnah wipes of all the arguments regarding the practicability of Qur’an’s teachings. It leaves no room for something like, ‘It was easy for God to reveal but difficult for people to practice’. As also mentioned in Qur’an 17:94-95 :-

And what has kept people from believing when guidance has come to them, except that they said: “Has God sent a mortal man as the Messenger?”
Say: “If angels had been walking about on earth as their abode, We would surely have sent down upon them an angel from heaven as Messenger.”

Thus by sending a human as messenger for humans God (Allah) left no argument what so ever, and Allah knows the best. Thus the messenger (pbuh)’s life itself acted as a revelation and whatever he did, said or allowed is also from Allah as explained further in this article and mentioned by Allah in Qur’an Surah (chapter) 53, Ayah (verse) 3-4.

DEFINITIONS

Hadeeth: The Arabic word Hadeeth basically means ‘an item of news, conversation, a tale, a story or a report,’ whether historical or legendary, true or false, relating to the present or the past. Its secondary meaning as an adjective is ‘new’ as opposed to qadeem, ‘old’. However, like other Arabic words (e.g. salaah, zakaah), its meaning changed in Islam. From the time of the Prophet (pbuh), his stories and communications dominated all other forms of communication. Consequently, the term Hadeeth began to be used almost exclusively for reports that spoke of his actions and sayings.

Hadeeth and Sunnah: The term Hadeeth has become a synonym for the term Sunnah, though there is some difference in their meanings. Sunnah, according to Arabic lexicographers, means ‘a way; course; rule; manner of acting or conduct of life’.  Sunnah, as a technical term in the Science of Hadeeth, refers to whatever statements, acts, approvals, physical or character descriptions that are attributable to the Prophet (pbuh) along with his biography before or after the beginning of his prophet hood. It is thus synonymous with the term Hadeeth. However, according to Usool al-Fiqh science (legal methodology), Sunnah refers to only the statements, acts and approvals of the Prophet (PBUH). It also refers to whatever is supported by evidence from the sharee‘ah (Islamic laws); the opposite of bid‘ah (innovation). And in the Legalistic science of Fiqh the term Sunnah refers to recommended acts. The Examples of different types of Sunnah as per Science of Hadith could be seen below,

Example of ‘Statement’

Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (saww) said, “Whoever does not give up forged speech and evil actions, God is not in need of his leaving his food and drink (i.e. God will not accept his fasting.)”
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 127 (1903) (Bukhari)

Example for ‘Acts’

Malik b. Huwairith reported: The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) raised his hands apposite his ears at the time of reciting the takbir (i. e. at the time of beginning the prayer) and then again raised his hands apposite the ears at the time of bowing and when he lifted his head after bowing he said: Allah listened to him who praised Him, and did like it (raised his hands up to the ears).  (Muslim 4:762)

Example of ‘Approval’

Narrated Abdullah ibn Umar: I used to sell camels at al-Baqi for dinars and take dirhams for them, and sell for dirhams and take dinars for them. I would take these for these and give these for these. I went to the Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) who was in the house of Hafsah. I said: Apostle of Allah , take it easy, I shall ask you (a question): I sell camels at al-Baqi’. I sell (them) for dinars and take dirhams and I sell for dirhams and take dinars. I take these for these, and give these for these. The Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) then said: There is no harm in taking them at the current rate so long as you do not separate leaving something to be settled. (22:3348) Suna Abu Dawud [Thus Prophet(PBUH) allowed money exchange with condition]

Example of character ‘Description’

Anas b. Malik reported: I served the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) for ten years, and, by Allah, he never said to me any harsh word, and he never said to me about a thing as to why I had done that and as to why I had not done that. (Muslim 30:5720)

IMPORTANCE OF HADITH

1. Revelation: The Prophet’s sayings and actions were primarily based on revelation from Allah (One True God) and, as such, must be considered a fundamental source of guidance along with Qur’an. Allah in the Qur’an said concerning the Prophet (pbuh) -

He does not speak on his own, out of his own desire; That is but a Revelation that is revealed to him.
[Quran 53:3-4]

Therefore, the Hadeeth represents a personal source of divine guidance which Allah granted His Prophet (pbuh) which was similar in its nature to the Qur’an itself. The Prophet (pbuh) reiterated this point in one of his recorded statements, “Indeed, I was given the Qur’an and something similar to it along with it.” [Sunan Abu Dawud]

2. Tafseer: The preservation of the Qur’an was not restricted to protecting its wording from change. Was that the case, its meanings could be manipulated according to human desires, while maintaining its wording. However, Allah also protected its essential meanings from change by entrusting the explanation of the meanings of Qur’an to the Prophet (PBUH) himself. Allah states the following in the Qur’an regarding its interpretation:

(We sent them) with Clear Signs and Books of dark prophecies; and We have sent down unto thee [Muhammad (pbuh)] the Message; that thou mayest explain clearly to men what is sent for them, and that they may give thought. [Qur’an 16:44]

Therefore, if one is to understand the meanings of Qur’an, he or she must consider what the Prophet (PBUH) said or did regarding it. E.g. in the Qur’an, Allah instructs the believers to offer salaah (formal prayers) and pay zakaah (obligatory charity) in Chapter 2, verse 43. However, in order to obey these instructions correctly, one must study the methodology of the Prophet (PBUH) in this regard. Among his many clarifications concerning Salaah and zakaah, he instructed his followers saying “Pray as you saw me pray,”[ Sahih Al-Bukhari, vol. 1, no. 604.] and he specified that surplus wealth, unused for a year, should be given as zakaah.

3. Laws: One of the primary duties of the Prophet (pbuh) was to judge between people in their disputes. Since his judgments were all based on revelation, as stated earlier, they must be considered a primary source of principles by which judgments are carried out in an Islamic State. Allah also addressed this responsibility in the Qur’an saying:

O believers obey Allah, obey the Messenger and those in authority among you. If you dispute about anything, refer it to Allah and the Messenger. [Quran 4:59]

Thus, Hadeeths are essential for the smooth running of the law courts in an Islamic State.

4. Moral Ideal: Since the Prophet (pbuh) was guided by revelation in his personal life, his character and social interactions became prime examples of moral conduct for Muslims until the Last Day. Attention was drawn to this fact in the following verse of Qur’an:

Surely there is for all of you a good example (of conduct) in the way of Allah’s Messenger [Qur’an 33:21]

Consequently, the daily life of the Prophet (pbuh) as recorded in hadeeth represents an ideal code of good conduct.

5. Preservation of Islam: The science of narration, collection and criticism of hadeeth was unknown to the world prior to the era of the Prophet (pbuh). In fact, it was due in part to the absence of such a reliable science that the messages of the former prophets became lost or distorted in the generations that followed them. Therefore, it may be said that it is largely due to the science of hadeeth that the final message of Islam has been preserved in it is original purity for all times. This is alluded to in the Qur’anic verse:

“Indeed, I have revealed the Reminder, I will, indeed, protect it.” [Qur’an 15: 90]

DISASTER OF IGNORING THE SUNNAH

Sunnah is ignored mostly out of arrogance and ignorance. Arrogance is having knowledge about a Sunnah and then ignoring it. Similarly, ignorance is being unaware of an authentic Sunnah.

Arrogant usually have the argument that Qur’an is enough to follow Islam. I’ll like to remind them that Allah takes vows by Himself very few times in Quran (most of the vows are taken by His creation). And one such place where He takes vow by Himself is Chapter4, Verse 65:-

But no, by the Lord, they can have no (real) Faith, until they make thee (Prophet Muhammad [pbuh]) judge in all disputes between them, and find in their souls no resistance against Thy decisions, but accept them with the fullest conviction. [Qur’an 4:65]

According to me there are two main points to note here:-

1)      “…they can have no (real) Faith, until they make thee [Muhammad (pbuh)] judge in all disputes between them…”

2)      “…and find in their souls no resistance against Thy decisions, but accept them with the fullest conviction.”

Thus Qur’an in very clear words state that our lives must be in accordance with the judging of Mohammed (pbuh) or else it leads to DISBELIEF. And once we know the Sunnah there must be no resistance on our part.

A single ayah of Qur’an is enough to make people realize the facts about the graveness of sidelining the Sunnah. However if you need more; here they are (after all Sunnah is the part of Islamic Faith, and no one has real faith unless he follows the Sunnah):-

- How many of our decisions might go against messenger if we don’t know/sideline/reject Sunnah-

It is not fitting for a Believer, man or woman, when a matter has been decided by Allah and His Messenger to have any option about their decision: if any one disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he is indeed on a clearly wrong Path.(33:36 Quran)

-Ignoring Sunnah may lead to punishment here or in hereafter-

Just to give one example through a Hadith,

Salama b. Akwa’ reported on the authority of his father that a person ate in the presence of Allah’s Messenger (pbuh) with his left hand, whereupon he said: Eat with your right hand. He said: I cannot do that, whereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: May you not be able to do that. It was vanity (excessive pride) that prevented him from doing it, and he could not raise it (the right hand) up to his mouth.  (Book 023, Hadith 5011)(Bukhari)

-The very fact of sending messengers?-

We sent not a messenger, but to be obeyed, in accordance with the will of Allah. If they had only, when they were unjust to themselves, come unto thee and asked Allah’s forgiveness, and the Messenger had asked forgiveness for them, they would have found Allah indeed Oft-returning, Most Merciful. (Quran 4:64)

-Take WHAT messenger assigns-

What Allah has bestowed on His Messenger (and taken away) from the people of the townships,- belongs to Allah,- to His Messenger and to kindred and orphans, the needy and the wayfarer; In order that it may not (merely) make a circuit between the wealthy among you. So take what the Messenger assigns to you, and deny yourselves that which he withholds from you. And fear Allah. for Allah is strict in Punishment.(Qur’an 59:7)

http://scanislam.com/articles/importance-of-sunnah-hadiths/

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Economic System of Islam

Islam views life as a compact whole and does not divide it into many separate and conflicting parts. The economic aspect is one of the most important parts of our life, while not being the whole of it. The Islamic system is balanced and places everything in its right place. Islam has given detailed regulations for the conduct of our economic life which concerns mainly the earning and use of wealth.

Man needs bread to live but he does not live for bread alone. This means that earning and spending money is essential for our living, but we do not live only for this. We have a greater purpose in life. We are Allah’s agents (Khalifah) on earth. We not only have a body but we also have a soul and a conscience. Without our soul and conscience, we would be considered little more than animals.

Everything in Islam is for the benefit and welfare of mankind. The economic principle of Islam aim at establishing a just society wherein everyone will behave responsibly and honestly, and not as ‘cunning foxes’ fighting for as big a share of something as possible without regard for honesty, truth, decency, trust and responsibility.

The Islamic Economic System is based on the following fundamental principles:

1. Earning and expenditure by Halal means.

Islam has prescribed laws to regulate earnings and expenditure. Muslims are not allowed to earn and spend in any way they like. The must follow the rules of the Qur’an and the Sunnah:
a. Any earnings from the production, sale and distribution of alcoholic drinks are unlawful (Haram), as are earnings from gambling, lotteries and from interest (Riba) transactions (5:90-91, 2:275).
b. Earning by falsehood, deceit, fraud, theft, robbery and burglary is unlawful. Deceitful acquisition of orphans' property has been particularly banned (2:188, 4:2, 6:152, 7:85, 83:1-5).
c. Hording of food stuff and basic necessities, smuggling and the artificial creation of shortages are unlawful (3:180, 9:34-35).
d. Earnings from brothels and from such other practices which are harmful to society are also unlawful (24:23).

Islam strikes at the root of the evil and wants to establish a just and fair society. A Muslim must earn his living in Halal ways and he should always bear in mind that what ever he does, it is known to Allah. He will be accountable for his actions on the day of judgement. He cannot hide anything from Almighty Allah.
Unlawful expenditure is also not allowed in Islam. It does not at all befit a Muslim to spend money irresponsibly. His actions should be responsible and meaningful. Extravagance and waste are strongly discouraged (7:31, 17:26, 19:27-31, 25:68).

2. Right to property and individual liberty
Islam allows a person to own his earnings. The Islamic state does not interfere with the freedom of speech, work and earnings of an individual provided this freedom is not harmful to the greater good of society. Every individual will be answerable to Allah swt for his or her actions (4:7, 36:71, 16:111).

3. System of Zakah (welfare contribution).
Compulsory payment of Zakah is one of the main principles of an Islamic economy. Every Muslim who owns wealth more than his needs must pay the fixed rate of Zakah to the Islamic state. Zakah is a means of narrowing the gap between the rich and the poor. It helps the fair distribution of wealth. It is a form of social security. The Islamic state is responsible for providing the basic necessities of food, clothing, housing, medicine and education to every citizen. No-one should have any fear of insecurity or poverty (9:69, 103, 98:5).

4. Prohibition of interest (Riba).
An Islamic economy is free of interest. Islam prohibits all transactions involving interest.Interest is neither a trade nor a profit. It is a means of exploitation and concentration of wealth. The Qur’an says:

"They say, trade is like interest and Allah has allowed trade and prohibited interest." (2:275).
"Whatever you pay as interest, so that it may increase in the property of (other) men, it does not increase with Allah."(30:39).
"O you who believe, do not take interest, doubling and quadrupling, and keep your duty to Allah, so that you may prosper." (3:130).
"O you who believe, observe your duty to Allah and give up what remains (due) from interest, if you are believers. But if you do not do it, then be warned of war from Allah and His messenger; and if you repent, then you shall have your capital. Do not exploit and be not exploited." (2:278-279).

Interest is the basis of modern capitalism. It is completely opposite to Zakah. Zakah channels wealth from the rich to the poor while interest takes away wealth from the poor and hands it over to the rich.

Modern economics are so inter-linked with interest that people may think it is impossible to go without it.
The situation is really very complex. But, we must aim at getting rid of interest. Unless people fight against the tyrant rulers and establish an Islamic state -the problems will still be there. Further, until Islamic state established, it will make us feel impossible to solve this Riba (interest) problem.
Allah swt has not imposed on us something impossible. An interest-free economy will be a boon for all peoples of the world.

5. Law of Inheritance (Mirath).
The Islamic law of inheritance is a wonderful system of stopping the concentration of wealth. It provides very detailed laws regarding the rights of dependents over the property of the deceased person. Suratun Nisa (chapter four) of the Qur’an deals with the law of inheritance in great detail(4:7-12, 4:176).

Conclusion
In addition to the above basic principles Islam has laid down many more rules about economic life. An Islamic state must bring all productive resources into use, including unemployed man-power, unused land, water resources and minerals. An Islamic stare must take steps to root out corruption and all harmful pursuits even if they are economically lucrative. Individual freedom may have to be sacrificed for the social good.
Islam encourages simplicity, modesty, charity, mutual help and cooperation. It discourages miserliness, greed, extravagance and unnecessary waste.
Here, we have discussed the main points of the Islamic economic system and we have no scope to go into the details in depth. It would be better for you to study some standard books on Islamic Economic from reliable sources (ie Islamic book shop etc.) to have a good grasp of this important aspect of our life. 

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Islam and Farrakhanism

Before we delve into how the group Nation of Islam are not of mainstream Islam, a brief history of how the group even formed. The group’s original founder, W. Fard, a Syrian rug merchant of the sort came and found Elijah Poole. Together they founded a organization to help the Blacks. They combined the concept of Black Nationalism, their own ideas as well as Islam to furnish this organization called Nation of Islam. Later when W.D Fard mysteriously disappeared, Elijah Poole(now called himself Elijah Mohammed) became leader of the organization. However upon Mr.PooleD Mohammed and re-formed the Nation of Islam.
So based on those facts, it would be presumably best to call the Nation of Islam, Farrakhanism since its the ideas of Farrakhan that revitalized this non-Islamic group. The following will prove indefinitely that Farrakhanism(Nation Of Islam) is not true Islam and does not convey the teachings of Islam.

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In terms of GOD/ALLAH ALONE:
ISLAM: One Unique, never appeared in any physical form; hence, no physical representation is possible.
FARRAKHANISM: ...Allah (God) appeared in the Person of Master W. Fard Muhammad, July 1930; the long awaited Messiah of the Christians and the Mahdi of the Muslims.

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PROPHET/MESSENGER
ISLAM: Muhammad (S) is the last Prophet and the last Messenger. No messenger or prophet will come after Muhammad (S).
Muhammad is not the father of any man among you, but he is the messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets; and Allah is ever Aware of all things.(30:40)
In many authentic Hadeeths(saying of the Prophet) the same is stated as well:
The Prophet of God (PBUH) affirmed: "My position in relation to the prophets who came before me can be explained by the following example: A man erected a building and adorned this edifice with great beauty, but he left an empty niche, in the corner where just one brick was missing. People looked around the building and marvelled at its beauty, but wondered why a brick was missing from that niche? I am like unto that one missing brick and I am the last in the line of the Prophets." (Bukhari, Kitab-ul-Manaqib). This Hadith has also been related in Muslim, Tirmizi, and Musnad of Ahmad.
The Prophet of Allah (PBUH) affirmed: "The chain of Messengers and Prophets has come to an end. There shall be no Messenger nor Prophet after me." (Tirmidhi, Kitab-ur-Rouya Babu Zahab-un- Nubuwwa, Musnad Ahmad, Marwiyat-Anas bin Malik)
And not only that but repected scholars of previous generations agree on the meaning of this statement:
Imam Ghazali- "This verse is conclusive of the precept that our Prophet (SAW) is the last and that there shall be no Nabi after him. When there shall be no Nabi to follow him the ordainment of a Rasool cannot arise by logic of anterority because the status of a Rasool is more exclusive then that of a nabi. Every Nabi(prophet) is not a Rasool(messenger) but every Rasool is a Nabi. There exists a continuous and unbroken chain of citations of Ahadith from a large number of venerable Sahabah or Companions of the Prophet (Allah be pleased with them), that there shall be no Nabi or Rasool after Muhammad (SAW)". (Tafseer Ibn-e-Khateer vol. 3 p453)
FARRAKHANISM: Elijah Muhammad was a Messenger of Allah. Are there any more messengers or prophets to come? Not clear in their message.
In other words, a fake prophet which fulfills a prophecy by Muhammed(pbuh):
It is related by Hazrat Thauban (RA) that our Prophet (SAW) said, "In my Ummah there shall be born thirty liars (dajjals) each of them will claim that he is a prophet but I am the last of the Prophets; there shall be no prophet after me".(Abu Dawood and Tirmizi)

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THE LAST DAY/THE LIFE HEREAFTER
ISLAM: The life on earth as we know it will come to an end; it will be followed by the life hereafter which includes physical resurrection of the entire humankind, judgement and the life of paradise or hell.
Those who disbelieve say: The Hour will never come unto us. Say: Nay, by my Lord, but it is coming unto you surely. (He is) the Knower of the Unseen. Not an atoms weight, or less than that or greater, escapes Him in the heavens or in the earth, but it is in a clear Record. That He may reward those who believe and do good words. For them is pardon and a rich provision. But those who strive against our revelations, challenging (Us), theirs will be a painful doom of wrath. (34:3-5)
FARRAKHANISM: ...BELIEVE in the resurrection of the dead - not in physical resurrection, but in mental resurrection. No already physically dead person will be in the Hereafter; that is slavery belief, taught to slaves to keep them under control. When you are dead, you are DEAD.
The Quran speaks of people with similar ideas such as followers of Farrakhanism:
They say, There is nothing but our present life; we die, and we live, and nothing but Time destroys us. Of that they have no knowledge; they merely conjecture. And when our revelations are recited to them, their only argument is that they say, Bring us our fathers, if you speak truly. (45:24-25)

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THE QURAN
ISLAM: It was revealed to Prophet Muhammad(pbuh) between 610 and 632 C.E.
It is the last revelation of Allah to mankind since he(pbuh) was the last messenger that was to reveal a holy book to mankind.
The Koran admittedly occupies an important position among the great religious books of the world. Though the youngest of the epoch-making works belonging to this class of literature, it yields to hardly any in the wonderful effect which it has produced on large masses of men. It has created an all but new phase of human thought and a fresh type of character. It first transformed a number of heterogeneous desert tribes of the Arabian peninsula into a nation of heroes, and then proceeded to create the vast politico-religious organizations of the Muhammadan world which are one of the great forces with which Europe and the East have to reckon today. --G. Margoliouth, Introduction to J.M. Rodwells, THE KORAN, New York: Everymans Library, 1977, p. vii.
FARRAKHANISM: Contradictory beliefs. On one side, ...BELIEVE in the Holy Quran and in the scriptures of all the Prophets of God, and on the other side, We, the original nation of the earth ... are the writers of the Bible and Quran. We make such history once every 25,000 years ... it is done by twenty-four of our scientists. Both the present Bible and the Holy Quran must soon give way to the Holy Book...

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SHAHADAH
ISLAM: It means what it says, that is, Allah is Unseen, He is the Creator, the Sustainer. Mankind is accountable to Him Alone, and Prophet Muhammad (S) of Arabia is the final and ultimate ROLE MODEL; no one can substitute for him.
I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, he is alone and has no partner and I bear witness that hazrat Muhammad (P.B.H.) is his messenger
That is the Shahadah.
FARRAKHANISM: A cover up to deceive gullible Muslims. Allah (God) appeared in the person of Master W. Fard Muhammad, and Muhammad of Arabia (S) was one of the prophets, not a role model for our times. The real role model and lawgiver for our times is Elijah Muhammad.

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SALAH
ISLAM: Five times a day is required; SALAH (prayer) includes QIYAM (standing), RUKU (bowing), SAJDA (prostration), JALSA (sitting on the floor) and recitations.
And who (strictly) guard their prayers. These will be the heirs (warithuna). Who will inherit paradise: they will dwell therein (for ever) (Q. 23:9-11).
Guard strictly your (habit of) prayers, especially the middle prayer; and stand before Allah in devout (frame of mind) (Q. 2:238)
FARRAKHANISM: No five times daily SALAH (prayer); prayer, when done has no RUKU or SAJDA. Friday is a major congregational prayer day, not for SALAH, but to say DUA and to listen to a Minister.

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ZAKAH
ISLAM: Required on accumulated wealth after having in possession for one year above the NISAB (certain limits), as defined in SHARIA (Islamic law).
FARRAKHANISM: It is a tax as poor due on income, similar to income tax.
Who benefits?

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SAWM
ISLAM: Fasting is required in the month of Ramadan, ninth month of Islamic calendar.
The month of Ramazan is that in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance to men and clear proofs of the guidance and the distinction; therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein, and whoever is sick or upon a journey, then (he shall fast) a (like) number of other days; Allah desires ease for you, and He does not desire for you difficulty, and (He desires) that you should complete the number and that you should exalt the greatness of Allah for His having guided you and that you may give thanks. (2:185)
FARRAKHANISM: Fasting is required in December only. Fasting in the month of Ramadan is optional.

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HAJJ
ISLAM: Required once in a lifetime if conditions of finances, health, and safety of travel are met.
In it are clear signs, the standing place of Ibrahim, and whoever enters it shall be secure, and pilgrimage to the House is incumbent upon men for the sake of Allah, (upon) every one who is able to undertake the journey to it; and whoever disbelieves, then surely Allah is Self-sufficient, above any need of the worlds.(3:97) FARRAKHANISM: No Hajj requirement. Farrakhan and his cronies take trips to Saudi Arabia, and by the way, to Makkah for the main purpose of image building and to raise funds from gullible rich Arabs.

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LAWFUL (HALAL); UNLAWFUL (HARAM)
ISLAM: Determined by Allah, the God Alone, announced in the Quran(in 5th Sura mostly) and by the Prophet Muhammad (S), recorded in the authentic Hadith sources.
FARRAKHANISM: Determined by W.D. Fard and announced by Elijah Muhammad. The Quran and Prophet Muhammad (S) have no relevance nor authority with regard to lawful and unlawful.

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AUTHENTIC HADITH
ISLAM: An indispensable source of Islamic beliefs and practices, the only source after the Quran. Indispensable for the understanding of the Quran itself.
FARRAKHANISM: Ignored, if not totally rejected by Farrakhanis. However, the leadership, including Farrakhan himself, may invoke Hadith if it suits their purpose to fool gullible Muslims.

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Racism
Islam: No racial distinctions, everyone equal and slaves/servants of Allah.
O you men! surely We have created you of a male and a female, and made you tribes and families that you may know each other; surely the most honorable of you with Allah is the one among you most careful (of his duty); surely Allah is Knowing, Aware.(49:13)
Farrakhanism: Belief of Black as master race and belief that being a black person is being God in effect.
So based on all the overwhelming evidence as shown above, the Nation of Islam or rather Farrakhanism is not true Islam and its followers are not Muslim but rather misguided ignorants that need guiding to true Islam. Source: http://www.angelfire.com/ny/dawahpage/nok.html

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Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem

The most famous Islamic site in Jerusalem is the Dome of the Rock (Qubbat as-Sakhrah). An impressive and beautiful edifice, the Dome of the Rock can be seen from all over Jerusalem. It is the crowning glory of the Haram es-Sharif ("Noble Sanctuary"), or Temple Mount.
The Dome of the Rock is not a mosque, but a Muslim shrine. Like the Ka'ba in Mecca, it is built over a sacred stone. This stone is believed to be the place from which the Prophet Muhammad ascended into heaven during his Night Journey to heaven.
The Dome of the Rock is the oldest Islamic monument that stands today and certainly one of the most beautiful. It also boasts the oldest surviving mihrab (niche indicating the direction of Mecca) in the world.

History

The sacred rock over which the Dome of the Rock is built was considered holy before the arrival of Islam. Jews believed, and still believe, the rock to be the very place where Abraham prepared to sacrifice Isaac (an event which Muslims place in Mecca). In addition, the Dome of the Rock (or the adjacent Dome of the Chain) is believed by many to stand directly over the site of the Holy of Holies of both Solomon's Temple and Herod's Temple.
The Dome of the Rock was built by the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik from 688 to 691 AD. It was not intended to be a mosque, but a shrine for pilgrims. According to tradition, the Dome of the Rock was built to commemorate Muhammad's ascension into heaven after his night journey to Jerusalem (Qur'an 17). But there seems to have been more to it than this, since the Dome of the Ascension was later built nearby.
Actually, according to the Oxford Archaeological Guide to the Holy Land, "Abd al-Malik's purpose was more complex and subtle." He wished to erect a beautiful Muslim building that could compete with the majestic churches of Christendom and would be a symbolic statement to both Jews and Christians of the superiority of the new faith of Islam. "His building spoke to Jews by its location, to Christians by its interior decoration." [1]
In the 10th century, the Jerusalem visitor Mukaddasi wrote of the magnificent structure:

At dawn, when the light of the sun first strikes the dome and the drum catches the rays, then is this edifice a marvellous sight to behold, and one such than in all of Islam I have not seen the equal; neither have I heard tell of anything built in pagan times that could rival in grace this Dome of the Rock. [2]

By the 11th century, several legends had developed concerning the Dome of the Rock and its sacred stone, including the following:

They say that on the night of his Ascension into Heaven the Prophet, peace and blessing be upon him, prayed first at the Dome of the Rock, laying his hand upon the Rock. As he went out, the Rock, to do him honor, rose up, but he laid his hand on it to keep it in its place and firmly fixed it there. But by reason of this rising up, it is even to this present day partly detached from the ground beneath. [3]

In the Middle Ages, Christians and Muslims both believed the dome to be the biblical Temple of Solomon. The Knights Templar made their headquarters there during the Crusades and later patterned their churches after its design. [4]
The exterior mosaics that once adorned the Dome of the Rock suffered from exposure to Jerusalem winters. They were repaired in the Mamluk period, and then completely replaced with tiles by Sulieman the Magnificent in 1545. At the same time, he created the parapet wall with its intricate inscription by filling up the thirteen small arches that originally topped each facade. The windows of the Dome of the Rock date from this period as well. The tiling was completely replaced in the last major restoration in 1956-62.

What to See

The extraordinary visual impact of the Dome of the Rock is in part due to the mathematical rhythm of its proportions. All the critical dimensions are related to the center circle that surrounds the sacred stone. For example, each outer wall is 67 feet long, which is exactly the dome's diameter and exactly its height from the base of the drum.
The same principles were used in Byzantine churches of Italy, Syria, and Palestine, but none compare to the integration of plan and elevation seen in the Dome of the Rock.
The great golden dome that crowns the Dome of the Rock was originally made of gold, but was replaced with copper and then aluminum. The aluminum is now covered with gold leaf, a donation from the late King Hussein of Jordan. [6]
The dome is topped by a full moon decoration which evokes the familiar crescent moon symbol of Islam. It is aligned so that if you could look through it, you would be looking straight towards Mecca.
The beautiful multicolored Turkish tiles that adorn the shrine's exterior are faithful copies of the Persian tiles that Suleiman the Magnificent added in 1545 to replace the damaged originals. The lower half of the exterior is white marble.
The Arabic inscription around the octagonal part of the Dome of the Rock are verses from the Qur'an. The inscription dates from the renovation under Suleiman. The tiled area just below the golden dome is the drum. Its glazed tiles were made in Turkey, and its Arabic inscription tells of the Night Journey of Muhammad as described in the Qur'an (surah 17).
Inside the shrine, an arched wall called the octagonal arcade or inner octagon follows the exterior shape. An open space between this and the central circle forms the inner ambulatory around the Rock, carpeted in lush red. The area between the inner octagon and outer octogan (exterior wall) forms a smaller, outer ambulatory, carpeted in green. The two ambulatories recall the ritual circular movement of pilgrims around the Ka'ba in Mecca.
The cupola, the interior of the great golden dome, features elaborate floral decorations in red and gold, as well as various inscriptions. The main inscription in the cupola commemorates Saladin, who sponsored extenstive restoration work on the building.
The mosaics of the interior feature both realistic and stylized representations of vegetation and related themes (Muslim law forbids the representation of living beings in art). The mosaics evoke an exotic garden, perhaps the gardens of Paradise. Rich jewelry is also depicted in abundance, including breastplates, necklaces, and a Persian crown with features gathered at the base. The caliph Omar had conquered Persia in 637, and the mosaics symbolize the Persian crowns he sent to hang in Mecca.
The founding inscription is a monumental 240-meter long line of Kufic script running along the top of both sides of the octagonal arcade inside the Dome of the Rock. On the outer side of the arcade, the inscription quotes Quranic verses glorifying God.
On the eastern side, an inscription gives credit for the building's construction to the Abbasid caliph al-Mamun in the year 72 AH (691 AD). However, al-Mamun reigned from 813-33 AD, so the inscription clearly represents an Abbasid effort to claim credit for the achievement of the previous dynasty.
Much of the inscription on the inner side of the octagonal arcade exhorts Christians to depart from error of the Trinity and recognize the truth of Islam:

O People of the Book! Do not exaggerate in your religion nor utter aught concerning God save the truth. The Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, was only a Messenger of God, and His Word which He conveyed unto Mary, and a spirit from Him. So believe in God and His messengers, and say not 'Three' - Cease! (it is) better for you! - God is only One God. Far be it removed from His transcendent majesty that He should have a son. ... Whoso disbelieveth the revelations of God (will find that) lo! God is swift at reckoning! [5]

The columns supporting the inner octagon and the center circle are of different sizes; they were recycled from previous structures. The crosses on some show them to have been taken from churches. The carved ceilings on either side of the inner octagon were not part of the original design; they first appeared in the 14th century and have been restored since then. The Mamluk star is the dominant motif.
The small, flat mihrab (niche showing the direction of Mecca) belongs to the original building, and is the oldest mihrab preserved in the Islamic world. The wooden screen around the sacred rock was donated by the Ayyubid sultan al-Aziz in 1198. The Crusaders protected the rock from relic-snatching pilgrims by erecting a wrought-iron screen between the columns of the circle; it remained in place until 1960 and is now on display in the Islamic Museum.
The sacred rock that is the central focus of the shrine is a large, ancient rock that may have once stood in the center of Solomon's Temple. For Jews, it is the rock on which Abraham prepared to sacrifice Isaac. For Muslims, it is the rock from which Muhammad's winged horse leapt into the sky, accompanied by the Archangel Gabriel, on the "Night Journey" into heaven (Qur'an 17). The rock is said to bear the horse's imprint. Muslim tradition holds that an angel will come to the rock to sound the trumpet call of the Last Judgment at the end of the world. [7]
The reliquary next to the rock dates from the Ottoman period and contains a hair of Muhammad's beard.
The cavity beneath the rock, accessible by a staircase near the south entrance, is known as Bir el-Arwah, the "Well of Souls." It is said that here the voices of the dead mingle with the falling waters of the lower rivers of paradise as they drop into eternity.
Another legend says that the dead meet here twice a month to pray. In earlier days, those who prayed here after having walked around the rock were given a certificate entitling them admission to paradise; it was to be buried with them.

Quick Facts

Site Information
Names:	Dome of the Rock; Qubbat as-Sakhrah
Location:	Jerusalem, Israel
Faith:	Islam
Categories:	Shrines; Mosques
Date:	688-91
Features:	Oldest; Mosaics
Status:	active
Photo gallery:	Dome of the Rock Photo Gallery
Visitor Information
Address:	Temple Mount, Jerusalem
Coordinates:	31.778097° N, 35.235139° E   (view on Google Maps)
Lodging:	View hotels near this location
Opening hours:	Currently open only to Muslims, 8:30am to 3pm daily. Closed to tourist visits during midday prayers.
Cost:	Combined admission ticket of NIS 38 for Al-Aqsa Mosque, Dome of the Rock, and Islamic Museum.

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30 Facts about ISLAM

1) "Islam" means "peace through the submission to God".

2) "Muslim" means "anyone or anything that submits itself to the will of God".

3) Islam is not a cult. Its followers number over 1.5 billion worldwide. Along with Judaism and Christianity, it is considered to be one of the three Abrahamic traditions.

4) There are five pillars of practice in Islam. These practices must be undertaken with the best of effort in order to be considered a true Muslim: A) Shahadah - declaration of faith in the oneness of God and that Muhammad is the last prophet of God. B) Formal prayer five times a day.

C) Fasting during the daylight hours in the month of Ramadan. D) Poor-due "tax" - 2.5% of one's savings given to the needy at the end of each year. E) Pilgrimage to Mecca at least once, if physically and financially able.

5) There are six articles of faith in Islam. These are the basic beliefs that one must have in order to be considered a true Muslim. They are belief in: A) the One God. B) all the prophets of God. C) the original scriptures revealed to Prophets Moses, David, Jesus, and Muhammad. D) the angels. E) the Day of Judgment and the Hereafter. F) the divine decree (or destiny).

6) Islam is a complete way of life that governs all facets of life: moral, spiritual, social, political, economical, intellectual, etc.

7) Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in the world. To become Muslim, a person of any race or culture must say a simple statement, the shahadah, that bears witness to the belief in the One God and that Prophet Muhammad was the last prophet of God.

8) "Allah" is an Arabic word that means "God". Muslims also believe that "Allah" is the personal name of God.

9) Allah is not the God of Muslims only. He is the God of all people and all creation. Just because people refer to God using different terms does not mean that they are different gods. Spanish people refer to God as "Dios" and French people refer to God as "Dieu", yet they are all the same God. Interestingly, most Arab Jews and Arab Christians refer to God as "Allah". And the word Allah in Arabic appears on the walls of many Arab churches.

10) The Islamic concept of God is that He is loving, merciful, and compassionate. But Islam also teaches that He is just and swift in punishment. Nevertheless, Allah once said to Prophet Muhammad, "My mercy prevails over my wrath." Islam teaches a balance between fear and hope, protecting one from both complacency and despair.

11) Muslims believe that God has revealed 99 of His names (or attributes) in the Holy Qur'an. It is through these names that one can come to know the Creator. A few of these names are: the All-Merciful, the All-Knower, the Protector, the Provider, the Near, the First, the Last, the Hidden, and the Source of Peace.

12) Muslims believe in and acknowledge all the prophets of old, from Adam to Jesus. Muslims believe that they brought the message of peace and submission (islam) to different peoples at different times. Muslims also believe that these prophets were "muslims" because they submitted their wills to God.

13) Muslims neither worship Muhammad nor pray through him. Muslims solely worship the unseen and Omniscient Creator, Allah.

14) Muslims accept the original unaltered Torah (the Gospel of Moses) and the original Bible (the Gospel of Jesus) since they were revealed by God. However, none of those original scriptures are in existence today, in their entirety. Therefore, Muslims follow the subsequent, final, and preserved revelation of God, the Holy Qur'an.

15) The Holy Qur'an was not authored by Muhammad. It was authored by God, revealed to Muhammad, and written into physical form by his companions.

16) The Holy Qur'an has no flaws or contradictions. The original Arabic scriptures have never been changed or tampered with.

17) Actual seventh century Qur'ans, complete and intact, are on display in museums in Turkey and many other places around the world.

18) If all Qur'ans in the world today were burned and destroyed, the original Arabic would still remain. This is because millions of Muslims, called Hafiz (or "preservers") have memorized the text letter for letter from beginning to end, every word and syllable. Also, chapters from the Qur'an are precisely recited from memory by every Muslim in each of the five daily prayers.

19) Muslims do not believe in the concept of "vicarious atonement" but rather believe in the law of personal responsibility. Islam teaches that each person is responsible for his or her own actions. On the Day of Judgment Muslims believe that every person will be resurrected and will have to answer to God for their every word, thought, and deed. Consequently, a practicing Muslim is always striving to be righteous.

20) Islam was not spread by the sword. It was spread by the word (Islamic teachings) and the example of its followers. Islam teaches that there is no compulsion in religion (the Holy Qur'an 2:256 and 10:99).

21) Terrorism, unjustified violence and the killing of innocent people are absolutely forbidden in Islam. Islam is a way of life that is meant to bring peace to a society, whether its people are Muslim or not. The extreme actions of those who claim to be Muslim may be, among other things, a result of their ignorance or uncontrolled anger. Tyrant rulers and those who commit acts of terrorism in the name of Islam are simply not following Islam. These people are individuals with their own views and political agendas. Fanatical Muslims are no more representative of the true Islamic teachings than Timothy McVeigh or David Koresh are of Christianity. Extremism and fanaticism is a problem that is common to all religious groups. Anyone who thinks that all Muslims are terrorists should remember that the famous boxer Muhammad Ali, perhaps the most celebrated person of our era, is a practicing Muslim.

22) The word "jihad" does not mean "holy war". Instead, it means the inner struggle that one endures in trying to submit their will to the will of God. Some Muslims may say they are going for "jihad" when fighting in a war to defend themselves or their fellow Muslims, but they only say this because they are conceding that it will be a tremendous struggle. But there are many other forms of jihad which are more relevant to the everyday life of a Muslim such as the struggles against laziness, arrogance, stinginess, or the struggle against a tyrant ruler or against the temptation of Satan, or against one's own ego, etc.

23) Women are not oppressed in Islam. Any Muslim man that oppresses a woman is not following Islam. Among the many teachings of Prophet Muhammad that protected the rights and dignity of women is his saying, "...the best among you are those who treat their wives well." (Tirmidhi)

24) Islam grants women numerous rights in the home and in society. Among them are the right to earn money, to financial support, to an education, to an inheritance, to being treated kindly, to vote, to a dowry, to keep their maiden name, to worship in a mosque, etc., etc.

25) Muslim women wear the head-covering (hijab) in fulfillment of God's decree to dress modestly. From a practical standpoint, it serves to identify one as attempting to follow God in daily life and, therefore, protects women from unwanted advances from men. This type of modest dress has been worn by righteous women throughout history. Prominent examples are traditional Catholic Nuns, Mother Teresa and the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus.

26) Arranged marriages are allowed in Islam but are not required. Whereas "forced" marriages, usually stemming from cultural practice, are forbidden. Divorce is permissible, however, reconciliation is what is most encouraged. But if there are irreconcilable differences then Islam permits a fair and just divorce.

27) Islam and the "Nation of Islam" are two different religions. Islam is a religion for all races and enjoins the worship of the one unseen God who, orthodox Muslims believe, never took human form. The "Nation", on the other hand, is a movement geared towards non-whites and teaches that God appeared in the form of Fard Muhammad in 1930 and that Elijah Muhammad (a man who died in 1975) was a prophet of God. These beliefs clearly contradict the basic Islamic theology outlined in the Qur'an. The followers of "the Nation" adhere to some Islamic principles that are mixed with many other teachings that are alien to Islam. To better understand the difference between the two, read about Malcolm X, his pilgrimage to Mecca and his subsequent comments to the media. Islam teaches
equality amongst all the races (Holy Qur'an 49:13).

28) All Muslims are not Arab. Islam is a universal religion and way of life which includes followers from all races of people. There are Muslims in and from virtually every country in the world. Arabs only constitute about 20% of Muslims worldwide. Indonesia has the largest concentration of Muslims with over 120 million.

29) In the five daily prayers, Muslims face the Kaaba in Mecca, Arabia. It is a cube-shaped stone structure that was originally built by Prophet Adam and later rebuilt by Prophet Abraham. Muslims believe that the Kaaba was the first house of worship on Earth dedicated to the worship of one god. Muslims do not worship the Kaaba. It serves as a central focal point for Muslims around the world, unifying them in worship and symbolizing their common belief, spiritual focus and direction. Interestingly, the inside of the Kaaba is empty.

30) The hajj is a simultaneous pilgrimage to the Kaaba made by millions of Muslims each year. It is performed to commemorate the struggles of Abraham, Ismail and Hagar in submitting their wills to God.

 Source: islamondemand.com 

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Best Deeds

It is narrated on the authority of Abdullah bin Mas'ood (may Allah be pleased with him), who observed:
"I asked Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) which deed was the best." He (the Holy Prophet) replied: 'The Prayer at its appointed hour.' I (again) asked: "Then what?" He (the Holy Prophet) replied: 'Kindness to the parents.' I (again) asked: "Then what?" He replied: 'Earnest struggle (Jihad) in the cause of Allah.' I refrained from asking any more questions for fear of annoying him. (Sahih Muslim: 120)

Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) was asked about the best of deeds. He observed: "Belief in Allah." He (the inquirer) asked: 'What next?' He (the Holy Prophet) replied: "Jihad (struggle to the utmost) in the cause of Allah." He (the inquirer) again asked: 'What next?' He (the Holy Prophet) replied: "Pilgrimage accepted into the grace of the Lord." (Sahih Muslim: 118)

Abu Dharr (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that I asked the Messenger of Allah: "Which of the deeds is the best?" He (the Holy Prophet) replied: 'Belief in Allah and Jihad in His cause.' I again asked: "Who is the slave whose emancipation is the best?" He (the Holy Prophet) replied: 'One who is valuable for his master and whose price is high.' I asked: "What if I cannot afford to do it?" He (the Holy Prophet) replied: 'Help an artisan or make anything for the unskilled (laborer).' I (Abu Dharr) said: "O Messenger of Allah, you see that I am helpless in doing some of these deeds." He (the Holy Prophet) replied: 'Desist from doing mischief to the people. That is your own charity for your self.'
(Sahih Muslim: 119)
SOME OF THE HUMAN QUALITIES ALLAH, THE ALMIGHTY LOVES
"Say (O Muhammad to mankind): "If you (really) love Allah, then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic monotheism, follow the Quran and the Sunnah), Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Quran: 3:31)

Patience
"And Allah loves as-Sabirun (the patient)." (Quran: 3:146)

Justice and Dealing with Equity
"Be just: that is nearer to piety; and fear Allah." (Quran: 5:8)

Putting Trust in Allah
"Certainly, Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him)." (Quran: 3:159)

Perfection of One's Work
The Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves that if one does a job he perfects it."

Rescuing
Abu Ya ‘la Dailami and Ibn Asakir narrated: Abu Hurairah and Anas Ibn Malik said: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves rescuing the one who needs rescue."

Being Kind and Gentle to Others
Baihaqani narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah is kind and gentle (to others)."

Kindliness
"Aisha narrated: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves kindliness in all matters." (Bukhari)

Repentance
"Truly, Allah loves those who turn unto him in repentance." (Quran: 2:222)

Piety
"Verily, then Allah loves those who are al-Muttaqun (the pious)."
(Quran: 3:76)

Good-doing
"Truly, Allah loves Al-Muhsinun (the good-doers)." (Quran: 2:195)

Body Purification
"And Allah loves those who make themselves clean and pure [ i.e. who clean their private parts with dust (which has the properties of soap) and water from urine and stools, after answering the call of nature]." (Quran: 9:108)

Humility of the Rich
Muslim narrated: Sa'd Ibn Abi Waqqas said: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves the believer who is pious and rich, but does not show off."

Belief and Work
Al-Tabarani narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves the slave who believes and acquires a career (or work)."

Reflection of Allah's Grace
Al-Tirmidhi narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves from amongst his slaves, the one who has a sense of zeal or honor."

Magnanimity
Al-Hakim narrated: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "Allah is All-Generous and He loves generosity in sale, purchase and judgment."

Virtuosity
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: " Allah loves the slave-believer who is poor but virtuous enough to refrain from begging though he has many children." (Muslim and Ahmed)

Loftiness
Al-Tabarani narrated: the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves lofty matters and superiority and hates inferior matters."

Justice
Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah loves that you be just toward your children even when kissing them." (Ibn Al-Najjar)

Strength
Muslim narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The strong believer is better and more loved by Allah than the weak one, but they are both good."

Love for the Sake of Allah
Al-Tabarani, Ibn Ya'la, Ibn Hibban and Al-Hakim narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "If two men love each other for the sake of Allah, the stronger in love to his brother will be more loved by Allah."

Forgiveness
Ibn Iday narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah is All-Forgiving and He loves forgiveness."

Continuous Performance of Righteous Deeds
Bukhari and Muslim narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The best loved deeds to Allah are the ones that are continuous even if they are not very many."

Loving and Visiting Believers
Malik narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah said: My love is due to those who meet for My sake, visit one another and make any effort for My pleasure."

Exhortation and Advising
Abdullah, the son of Imam Ahmed narrated: It was said: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The best loved slaves to Allah are those who exhort their slaves."

Love of Virtuous Deeds
Ibn Abi Al-Dunya narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The best loved slaves to Allah are those who are made to love virtue and loving virtuous deeds is made lovely to them."

Good Manners and Conduct
Al-Tirmidhi narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "The best loved by me and the nearest to me on the seats on the Day of Resurrection are those who have the best manners and conduct amongst you, who are intimate, are on good terms with others and are humble, and the most hated by me and who will be on the furthest seats from me are those who are talkative and arrogant."

Love of Allah is the basis of worship that should be directed to Him alone. Any other love should be for His sake too. The real love of Allah is to do whatever He ordained and to abandon whatever He forbade, in addition to following the Prophet's Sunnah.

Whoever obeys someone or something other than Allah and His Messenger, or follows any saying other than theirs, or fears other than Allah or seeks the pleasure of other than Allah, or puts his trust in other than Him, does not love Allah, nor does he love His Messenger. Muslims should also love one another and wish the best for one another. Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said:

"One will not be a true believer unless he loves for his brother what he loves for himself." (Bukhari, Muslim, Nasa'i, Ahmed and Ibn Majah)

Imam Malik and Imam Ahmed narrated: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "Allah said: My love is due to those who love one another for My sake."


Source: 4newmuslims.org

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