Importance of Zakat in the Light of Qur’an and Sunnah Zakat is the third pillar of Islam and an essential act of worship. It refers to the obligatory charity that every eligible Muslim must give to the poor and needy from their wealth. The term “zakat” literally means “purification” and “growth.” In Islam, paying zakat purifies wealth and fosters social and economic justice. Its importance is repeatedly emphasized in the Qur’an and Sunnah, making it a cornerstone of Islamic faith and practice. 1. Importance in the Light of the Qur’an 1.1 Zakat as a Divine Obligation Allah says in the Qur’an: “Establish prayer and give zakat, and bow with those who bow [in worship].” — (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:43) This verse shows that zakat is mentioned alongside salah (prayer), indicating its high status in the religion. It is not optional but a clear obligation on every eligible Muslim. 1.2 Zakat is a Condition of Righteousness “It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards the East or the West, but righteousness is in one who believes in Allah… and gives wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy…” — (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:177) True piety includes giving wealth to the needy. Zakat is a means of proving one’s sincerity and commitment to Allah. 1.3 Warning for Neglecting Zakat “And those who hoard gold and silver and do not spend it in the way of Allah — give them tidings of a painful punishment.” — (Surah At-Tawbah 9:34) This verse warns against hoarding wealth and neglecting zakat. It indicates that withholding zakat is a serious sin with consequences in the Hereafter. 1.4 Zakat Purifies Wealth “Take from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke Allah’s blessings upon them.” — (Surah At-Tawbah 9:103) Zakat purifies both the wealth and the soul of the giver. It cleanses greed and selfishness, bringing barakah (blessing) in one’s wealth. 2. Importance in the Light of the Sunnah 2.1 Pillar of Islam The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Islam is built upon five: the testimony that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; establishing prayer; giving zakat; fasting Ramadan; and pilgrimage to the House.” — (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim) Zakat is one of the five foundational pillars, without which one’s Islam is incomplete. 2.2 Protection Against Punishment The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever is made wealthy by Allah and does not pay the zakat of his wealth, then on the Day of Judgment, his wealth will be turned into a bald-headed poisonous male snake with two black spots over the eyes. The snake will encircle his neck and bite his cheeks saying: I am your wealth, I am your treasure.” — (Sahih Bukhari) This hadith shows the severe consequences of neglecting zakat and highlights its importance in ensuring salvation in the Hereafter. 2.3 Zakat as a Social Responsibility The Prophet ﷺ said: “Protect your wealth by giving zakat, treat your sick by giving charity, and face the trials with supplication.” — (Tabarani) Zakat is not only a financial obligation but also a way to bless one’s wealth, protect against trials, and support the community. 2.4 Zakat Prevents Misery and Greed The Prophet ﷺ said: “When the zakat is not paid, rain is withheld from the sky, and were it not for the animals, it would not fall at all.” — (Ibn Majah) Neglecting zakat leads to social and environmental consequences. This hadith links charity to societal well-being. 3. Spiritual and Social Benefits Purification of the soul from greed and materialism. Barakah (blessing) in wealth. Closeness to Allah through fulfilling one’s duty. Support for the poor, needy, orphans, and others in need. Reduces economic inequality and prevents hoarding. Builds a strong and caring society where wealth circulates and benefits all. 4. Categories of Zakat Recipients (Asnaf) According to Surah At-Tawbah (9:60), zakat can be given to: The poor The needy Those employed to collect zakat Those whose hearts are to be reconciled To free captives Those in debt In the cause of Allah The wayfarer This system ensures zakat reaches those most in need and serves various social and moral causes. Conclusion Zakat is not just a financial duty — it is a spiritual purification, a social obligation, and a divine command. It is a form of worship that reflects the values of justice, compassion, and generosity in Islam. The Qur’an and Sunnah both emphasize that a society without zakat suffers from injustice and imbalance. By giving zakat sincerely, a Muslim draws closer to Allah, purifies his wealth, and contributes to a just and compassionate world.

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the most important acts of worship in Islam. It is the fourth pillar of Islam and holds a central place in the life of a believer. The significance of fasting is emphasized in both the Qur’an and the Sunnah (teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ). It serves not only as a physical act of abstaining from food and drink but also as a spiritual journey toward self-purification, taqwa (God-consciousness), and moral discipline. 1. Importance in the Light of the Qur’an 1.1 Obligation of Fasting Allah says in Surah al-Baqarah (2:183): “O you who have believed, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain taqwa.” This verse clearly shows that fasting is a divine obligation upon the believers, and its main objective is to develop taqwa — a sense of awareness and fear of Allah in every action. 1.2 Connection with the Qur’an In Surah al-Baqarah (2:185), Allah says: “The month of Ramadan is that in which the Qur’an was revealed — a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the criterion (between right and wrong).” This highlights that Ramadan is not only a month of fasting but also a month of spiritual reflection and connection with the Qur’an. 1.3 Allah’s Nearness and Mercy Immediately after the verses on fasting, Allah says in Surah al-Baqarah (2:186): “And when My servants ask you about Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the call of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.” This shows that Ramadan is a special time when Allah’s mercy is abundant, and prayers are more readily accepted. 2. Importance in the Light of Sunnah 2.1 Pillar of Islam The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Islam is built upon five things: the testimony that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah; establishing prayer; paying zakah; fasting in Ramadan; and pilgrimage to the House (Ka’bah).” — (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim) 2.2 Forgiveness of Sins The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever fasts in Ramadan out of faith and seeking reward (from Allah), all his previous sins will be forgiven.” — (Sahih Bukhari) 2.3 Special Reward for Fasting The Prophet ﷺ said: “Every action of the son of Adam is for him except fasting; it is for Me and I shall reward it.” — (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim) This hadith shows the unique value of fasting — it is a private act of worship between the servant and Allah, and only He knows its true reward. 2.4 Gates of Paradise The Prophet ﷺ said: “When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.” — (Sahih Bukhari) 3. Spiritual and Moral Benefits Fasting builds taqwa and helps control desires. It cleanses the soul and softens the heart. It encourages patience, humility, and sincerity. It trains the believer to stay away from sins such as lying, anger, and backbiting. 4. Social and Community Benefits Fasting promotes empathy for the poor and hungry. It encourages generosity, especially through zakat and sadaqah. It strengthens the bonds of community through collective worship like Taraweeh and iftar. It fosters discipline and time management. Conclusion Fasting in Ramadan is a comprehensive form of worship that benefits the individual spiritually, morally, and socially. It is not only about staying hungry and thirsty but about drawing closer to Allah, improving one’s character, and becoming a better human being. The Qur’an and Sunnah clearly show that Ramadan is a month of mercy, forgiveness, and guidance. Every Muslim should strive to make the most of this blessed month by increasing worship, reading the Qur’an, and seeking Allah’s pleasure.

  Importance of Salah in the Light of the Qur’an and Sunnah  Introduction Salah (الصلاة) is the second pillar of Islam and the most emphasized act of worship after the declaration of faith (Shahadah). It is a direct link between the servant and his Creator. Both the Qur’an and Sunnah repeatedly stress its importance, its obligatory nature, and its role in purifying the soul and strengthening faith. Importance of Salah in the Light of the Qur’an Salah as a Divine Command وَأَقِيمُوا۟ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَءَاتُوا۟ ٱلزَّكَوٰةَ وَٱرْكَعُوا۟ مَعَ ٱلرَّٰكِعِينَ “And establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship].” Surah Al-Baqarah (2:43) Salah Prevents Immorality and Evil إِنَّ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ تَنْهَىٰ عَنِ ٱلْفَحْشَآءِ وَٱلْمُنكَرِ ۗ وَلَذِكْرُ ٱللَّهِ أَكْبَرُ ۗ “Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing. And the remembrance of Allah is greater.” Surah Al-‘Ankabut (29:45) Salah as a Characteristic of True Believers قَدْ أَفْلَحَ ٱلْمُؤْمِنُونَ ۝ ٱلَّذِينَ هُمْ فِى صَلَاتِهِمْ خَـٰشِعُونَ “Certainly will the believers have succeeded: those who are humble in their prayers.” Surah Al-Mu’minun (23:1-2) Neglecting Salah is a Trait of Hypocrites إِنَّ ٱلْمُنَـٰفِقِينَ يُخَـٰدِعُونَ ٱللَّهَ وَهُوَ خَادِعُهُمْ ۖ وَإِذَا قَامُوٓا۟ إِلَى ٱلصَّلَوٰةِ قَامُوا۟ كُسَالَىٰ “Indeed, the hypocrites [think to] deceive Allah, but He is deceiving them. And when they stand for prayer, they stand lazily.” Surah An-Nisa (4:142) Destruction for Those Who Neglect Salah فَوَيْلٌۭ لِّلْمُصَلِّينَ ۝ ٱلَّذِينَ هُمْ عَن صَلَاتِهِمْ سَاهُونَ “So woe to those who pray but are heedless of their prayer.” Surah Al-Ma’un (107:4-5) Importance of Salah in the Light of the Sunnah Salah is the First Deed to be Accounted for قال رسول الله ﷺ: “أول ما يحاسب به العبد يوم القيامة الصلاة، فإن صلحت صلح سائر عمله، وإن فسدت فسد سائر عمله.” “The first deed for which a servant will be held accountable on the Day of Judgment will be his prayer. If it is sound, the rest of his deeds will be sound. If it is corrupt, the rest of his deeds will be corrupt.” Tirmidhi, 413 Salah as a Pillar of Islam قال رسول الله ﷺ: “رأس الأمر الإسلام، وعموده الصلاة، وذروة سنامه الجهاد.” “The head of the matter is Islam, its pillar is the prayer, and its peak is Jihad.” Tirmidhi, 2616 Salah is a Distinction between Muslim and Non-Muslim قال رسول الله ﷺ: “العهد الذي بيننا وبينهم الصلاة؛ فمن تركها فقد كفر.” “The covenant that distinguishes between us and them (non-believers) is the prayer; whoever neglects it has committed disbelief.” Tirmidhi, 2621 Salah Erases Sins قال رسول الله ﷺ: “أرأيتم لو أن نهرًا بباب أحدكم يغتسل فيه كل يوم خمس مرات، هل يبقى من درنه شيء؟ قالوا: لا يبقى من درنه شيء. قال: فذلك مثل الصلوات الخمس، يمحو الله بهن الخطايا.” “If there were a river at the door of one of you and he bathed in it five times a day, would any dirt remain on him?” They said, “No dirt would remain.” He said, “That is the example of the five prayers by which Allah removes sins.” Bukhari, 528; Muslim, 667 Conclusion Salah is not just a ritual but a spiritual necessity. It is the means of attaining nearness to Allah, maintaining moral discipline, and securing success in this life and the hereafter. The Qur’an commands it repeatedly, and the Sunnah stresses its significance as the foundation of faith and the ultimate expression of servitude. الصلاة عماد الدين، من أقامها فقد أقام الدين، ومن تركها فقد هدم الدين “Salah is the pillar of religion. Whoever establishes it has established the religion, and whoever abandons it has demolished the religion.”

The Pahla Kemla is the pahla kalema

Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic religion that teaches submission to the will of Allah (God). It is based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who is considered the last prophet in a long line of prophets that includes Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all). Here’s a brief overview: 🔹 Meaning of “Islam” The word Islam comes from the Arabic root س-ل-م (S-L-M), which relates to peace and submission. Islam literally means “submission” — specifically, submission to the will of Allah — and its followers are called Muslims. 🔹 Core Beliefs (The Six Articles of Faith – إيمان) Belief in Allah – the One, unique, and incomparable God. Belief in the Angels – created by Allah, they perform various duties. Belief in the Books of Allah – including the Qur’an (final revelation), Torah, Psalms, and Gospel. Belief in the Prophets – Allah sent prophets to guide humanity; Muhammad ﷺ is the final prophet. Belief in the Day of Judgment – life after death, accountability, Heaven and Hell. Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar) – everything happens by Allah’s knowledge and will. 🔹 The Five Pillars of Islam (أركان الإسلام) Shahada (شهادة) – Declaration of faith: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.” Salah (صلاة) – Performing five daily prayers. Zakat (زكاة) – Giving a portion of one’s wealth to the needy (obligatory charity). Sawm (صوم) – Fasting during the month of Ramadan. Hajj (حج) – Pilgrimage to Makkah at least once in a lifetime (if able). 🔹 The Holy Book The Qur’an – The final and complete revelation from Allah, preserved in Arabic, revealed over 23 years to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. 🔹 Purpose of Life in Islam To worship Allah, live a righteous life, follow divine guidance, and strive for success in both this world and the Hereafter. 🔹 Major Branches Sunni Islam – The largest group, emphasizing the Sunnah (tradition) of the Prophet. Shia Islam – Emphasizes the leadership of the family of the Prophet, particularly Imam Ali. 🔹 Islamic Ethics & Law Governed by Shari’ah (Islamic Law) based on the Qur’an and Hadith (Prophet’s teachings). Emphasizes justice, mercy, honesty, modesty, and the rights of others.

*Introduction:* Muharram is the *first month* of the Islamic calendar and one of the *four sacred months* (أشهر حرم) in which good deeds carry greater reward and sins are considered more serious. Allah ﷻ says in the Qur’an: > *إِنَّ عِدَّةَ الشُّهُورِ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ ٱثْنَا عَشَرَ شَهْرًا فِي كِتَـٰبِ ٱللَّهِ يَوْمَ خَلَقَ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَاتِ وَٱلْأَرْضَ مِنْهَا أَرْبَعَةٌ حُرُمٌۚ* > “Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve \[in a year], in the register of Allah, from the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred.” > — *Surah At-Tawbah (9:36)* The four sacred months are *Dhul-Qa’dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab*. — ### *1. Muharram – “The Month of Allah”:* The Prophet ﷺ referred to Muharram as *”Shahrullāh” – the Month of Allah*, indicating its special status. > *أَفْضَلُ الصِّيَامِ بَعْدَ رَمَضَانَ، صِيَامُ شَهْرِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلْمُحَرَّمِ* > “The best of fasting after the month of Ramadan is in the Month of Allah – al-Muharram.” > — *Sahih Muslim: 1163* This shows that fasting in this month brings immense spiritual benefit, second only to Ramadan. — ### *2. The Fast of Ashura (10th of Muharram):* Fasting on *‘Ashura* (10th of Muharram) has great merit. > *صِيَامُ يَوْمِ عَاشُورَاءَ، أَحْتَسِبُ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ أَنْ يُكَفِّرَ ٱلسَّنَةَ ٱلَّتِي قَبْلَهُ* > “Fasting the day of Ashura, I hope from Allah, expiates for the sins of the previous year.” > — *Sahih Muslim: 1162* Just *one day of fasting* can bring forgiveness for *a whole year of minor sins*. — ### *3. Ashura – The Day Allah Saved Musa (AS):* When the Prophet ﷺ migrated to Madinah, he saw the Jews fasting on the 10th of Muharram. Upon inquiry, they said it was the day Allah saved Prophet Musa (AS) from Pharaoh. > *نَحْنُ نَصُومُهُ تَعْظِيمًا لَهُ* > “We fast this day in honor of it.” The Prophet ﷺ replied: > *نَحْنُ أَحَقُّ بِمُوسَىٰ مِنْكُمْ، فَصَامَهُ رَسُولُ ٱللَّهِ ﷺ وَأَمَرَ بِصِيَامِهِ* > “We have more right to Musa than you.” So the Messenger of Allah ﷺ fasted on that day and ordered Muslims to fast as well. > — *Sahih al-Bukhari: 2004* This shows the *continuity of prophetic tradition* and our connection with previous prophets. — *4. Fasting Two Days – 9th and 10th:* The Prophet ﷺ intended to *add the 9th day* of Muharram to distinguish Muslims from others. > لَئِنْ بَقِيتُ إِلَىٰ قَابِلٍ، لَأَصُومَنَّ ٱلتَّاسِعَ* > “If I live until next year, I will certainly fast the 9th (of Muharram).” > — *Sahih Muslim: 1134 Therefore, the Sunnah is to fast either: 9th and 10th*, *Spiritual Lessons from the Fasts of Muharram:* 1. *Taqwa and Discipline*: Fasting purifies the soul and increases God-consciousness. 2. *Commemoration of Divine Help*: Reflect on Allah’s rescue of Musa (AS) and his people. 3. *Gratitude*: Fasting is a way to thank Allah for His past blessings. 4. *Imam Hussain (RA): Although not directly linked to the fast, **his stand for truth and justice at Karbala* inspires Muslims to uphold righteousness. — *What Should a Muslim Do in Muharram?* * *Fast* on the 9th and 10th following the Sunnah. * *Avoid innovations (Bid‘ah)* and mournful rituals not supported by authentic Islamic sources. * *Increase good deeds*: fasting, prayer, charity, Qur’an recitation, repentance. * *Reflect on sacrifice and justice*, especially the legacy of Hussain (RA) and the spirit of Karbala. — *Conclusion:* The fasts of Muharram, especially on *Ashura, are not just acts of worship – they are lessons in **faith, perseverance, gratitude, and truth*. They connect us with the legacy of the prophets, the struggle for justice, and the path of spiritual growth. Let us use this sacred month to *renew our connection with Allah*, seek forgiveness, and walk the path of righteousness.