Tafsīr Juz' Amma (Touched by An Angel) (Tayybah)

i
DEDICATION
TO
SISTER NOOR BHUIYAN

To Noor Bhuiyan, for being a motivation for us and reminding us of Allah when she
was with us and even now that she has returned to her Rabb.

Many close family members have passed away, but the sadness which arose from Noors passing
was unlike any other. Our relationship with her went beyond the relationship with kin. Scholars
have said, knowledge is like a kinship between its associates. The bond between students of
knowledge is strong because of the desire and motivation to get closer to Allah and to
understand His religion.

On July 2, 2009 not only did we lose a friend, sister, daughter, wife, but we lost someone who
reminded us of Allah through her actions or her words every time she was in our presence.
We lost someone who strove to please Allah in any way she could.

Noor eagerly sought knowledge and supported others on this path as well. Almost every seminar
or event she attended, she brought along with her a car packed with other sisters. Noor was
always the one who raced to be of the first to assist, when help was requested.

Noor was a student of Al-Maghrib, the Foundation of Knowledge and Development, and was
part of the halaqaat in her community. She played a big role in the publication of PPN. May
Allah accept it from her and allow it to weigh heavy on her scales. One of her biggest
goals was to memorize the Quraan. She started this journey with great enthusiasm and had begun
a project to involve other sisters just days before she fell ill.

Allah sends us constant reminders about the Hereafter, and Noors death was one such
reminder. We need to reflect and take a lesson from it. After learning about Noor, a young sister,
who just a month before her death was perfectly healthy, ask yourself: What path am I taking? If
its not the path to the pleasure of Allah , we need to change our path.

May Allah have mercy on Noor, grant her His shade on the day when there will be no
other shade, an abundance of noor as she passes over the Siraat, and make her everlasting abode
in Jannatul Firdaws. May Allah give her family patience and reward them greatly for
everything they have endured. May Allah unite us all with our dear Sister Noor in
Jannatul Firdaws. Ameen.
ii
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Contents

Dedication ........
i
A word of Caution ..
ii
Chapter 1: Surah al-Alaq ........
1
Chapter 2: Surah al-Lahab...............
12
Chapter 3: Surah at-Takweer........
17
Chapter 4: Surah al-Alaa.....
28
Chapter 5: Surah al-Layl...........
39
Chapter 6: Surah al-Fajr...
48
Chapter 7: Surah ad-Duha....
59
Chapter 8: Surah al-Inshiraah........
67
Chapter 9: Surah al-Asr...........................................................
75
Chapter 10: Surah al-Kawthar........................................................
80
Chapter 11: Surah at-Takathur..................................................
91
Chapter 12: Surah al-Maaoon........
103
Chapter 13: Surah al-Kaafiroon.....
111
Chapter 14: Surah al-Feel.............
117
Chapter 15: Surah al-Falaq.......
123
Chapter 16: Surah an-Naas.......
130
Chapter 17: Surah al-Ikhlaas.......
137
Chapter 18: Surah Abasa.......
145
Chapter 19: Surah al-Qadr............
158
Chapter 20: Surah al-Burooj
165
Chapter 21: Surah at-Teen...
179
Chapter 22: Surah Quraish...
184
Chapter 23: Surah al-Humazah......
189
Chapter 24: Surah al-Balad..........
195
Chapter 25: Surah an-Naba.........
203
Chapter 26: Surah al-Mutafifeen...........
218
Chapter 27: Surah al-Bayyinah..........
230
Chapter 28: Surah al-Nasr.........
237
The TBAA Tayybah PPN Crew....
242

Touched by an Angel Chapter 1: Surah al-Alaq - 96

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The Clot

Prophet Muhammad , while having lived in the sacred city of Makkah his whole life and
being a part of the community, did not agree with a lot of their practices. Thus, looking for
answers to the rampant sins and crimes of his society, he would engage in the practice
of isolation. His beloved and supportive wife, Khadijah , would prepare food that he
would take to Ghaar al Hiraa (cave of Hiraa). He would sit there and from his heart and
soul he would call out to Allaah knowing there must be something out there other than
the practices of the Makkans. He continued to sit there until something miraculous occurred.

That special moment marked a new phase, not only in his life, but in the history of
mankind as a whole. One night in RamaDaan, when he was atop Mount Uhud in the
dark cave of Hiraa, he heard iqra (read). Suddenly, he was being squeezed tightly by
none other than angel Jibreel . He was shocked and frightened. An angel was
commanding him to read and after repeating this command thrice, he responded, Ma
ana bi qaari? This phrase has two interpretations. It could either mean, I cannot read, or
What shall I read?

Jibreel then recited the first five ayaat of Surah al Alaq. After this life-changing event,
there was no turning back; Allaah made him a Prophet and from this point on he was to
be the final Messenger sent to proclaim the sacred words of the glorious Quraan. The
command to read was not only for him , but for all of mankind. Now, he had a mission to
accomplish.

2

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lc-d: In tlc -mc ot your lord, Vlo l- rc-tcd ,-ll tl-t cxit,, ,1, Uc l- rc-tcd
m-n trom - lot ,- icc ot tlik o-ul-tcd llood, ,`, lc-d: And your lord i tlc
Mot Ccncrou, ,, Vlo l- t-ult ,tlc writin, ly tlc cn. ,1, Uc l- t-ult m-n
3

tl-t wlil lc kncw not. ,, -y: Vcrily, m-n doc tr-nrc ,in dilclict -nd cvil
dccd,. ,6, Ic-uc lc onidcr limclt cltuttiicnt. ,, Surcly: unto your lord i
tlc rcturn. ,8, U-vc you ,O Mul-mm-d ,SAV,, ccn lim ,i.c. Al }-ll, wlo
rcvcnt, ,', A l-vc ,Mul-mm-d ,SAV,, wlcn lc r-y ,1, cll mc, it lc
,Mul-mm-d ,SAV,, i on tlc uid-nc ,ot Alll, ,11, Or cn}oin icty: ,1`, cll
mc it lc ,Al }-ll, dcnic ,tlc trutl, i.c. tli ur'n,, -nd turn -w-y ,1, Know
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uon li ounil ,ot lclcr,, ,1, Vc will -ll tlc u-rd ot Ucll ,to dc-l witl lim,:
,18, -y: ,O Mul-mm-d ,SAV,,: Do not olcy lim ,Al }-ll,. l-ll rotr-tc -nd
dr-w nc-r to Alll: ,1',
4

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The Clot
The First Revelation The First Revelation The First Revelation The First Revelation

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1. Read! In the Name of Your Lord, who has created (all that exists), 2. has
created man from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood).
The word Rabb is the root of the word tarbiyyah. Therefore, it implicates that He is the
One who nurtures, the One who cultivates, the One who raises and brings out the best in a
person. The Prophet is being told that Allaah is the One who created him and, in
creating him, He also cares for him. The Prophets father died while he was still in
the womb of his mother. Parents toil much to provide for their children and to take care of
them, but the nature of Allaahs care and provisions is miraculous. Ar-Rabb, the One
who out of His Mercy provides for our survival; even while the fetus is still in the womb, at a
time when parents cannot do much for their children, Allaah cares for it. In the first
ayah of this surah, Allaah tells us that He created everything in general and has provided
everything that we need for survival, progress and development.
In the following ayah, Allaah mentions the creation of humans specifically. Alaq refers
to something that clings; it is something that has to attach itself to survive thereby showing that
it is weak and dependent. This shows how dependent we are on Allaah ; we must
depend on Allaah in heart and soul since He , alone, has cared for us and granted
us everything that we have.
A point to note here is that the Quraan is not a book of science, however Allaah
includes scientific facts in it so that those who seek guidance will realize the truth of His Words.
5

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3. Read! and Your Lord is the Most Generous, 4. Who has taught (the writing) by
the pen [the first person to write was Prophet Idrees (Enoch)], 5. Has taught man
that which He knew not

Al Akram is on the structure of afal; mubaalgah wa ism tafdheel. Undoubtedly Allaah is
Generous but He is al Akram (an absolute term), The Most Generous. It is He who has
created you and out of His Love and Generosity, everything that surrounds you is for you.
Allaahs Mercy is manifest and there is nothing amongst creation that denies this fact
except for two: the jinn and humans. Water costs money to buy, however Allaah
doesnt charge us for the water we drink or the air we breathe.

The reality of gifts is that one cannot help but love the one who gives it. Allaah has given
us these gifts to demonstrate His Love and at the same time to cause us to demonstrate our
love for Him.
The reality of iqra is that it is focusing on knowledge. According to scholars, one of the facts
that made Islaam so great is that in order to preserve knowledge it is written down. We dont
have the memory of Imaam Bukhari who memorized countless aHadeeth, yet only recorded
40,000. Therefore, we need to preserve the knowledge we have to the best of our ability.
There are 3 pens being referred to here. The first one is that which Allaah created and
commanded to write everything that would happen. The second are the pens of the angels,
who are writing all that Allaah commands them to; this includes the angels on our right and left
writing down our good and bad deeds.
The knowledge and intellect that Allaah gave us should only affirm the fact that He is Al
Akram and should make us recognize His gifts. Our intellect is a gift from Allaah and it did not
emerge from selective evolution as scientists want to believe. There is a story of an imam who
was going to speak to a group of people. However he was to come across a river to meet them
and was late. While waiting for his arrival, people started to think that he wasnt going to come,
however at that moment, he came on a raft. He explained to them the reason for his lateness
by saying that while he was waiting across the river thinking how he would get to the people, a
raft emerged as a few pieces of wood bound themselves together on their own. People called
him insane because they said inanimate objects cant come together like that. He responded by
saying that if that is hard for them to believe, then our intellect should only affirm that Allaah
created us. Knowledge of what that Allaah has created should increase our
appreciation of Allaahs Power.
6

When Allaah revealed these first five ayaat to the Prophet , he returned home in a
state of terror. He ran to his wife Khadijah seeking comfort, saying, zammilooni,
zammilooni (cover me, cover me). He did not fear the repercussions of telling her what
happened and she responded, Allaah will never disgrace you! Khadijah exhibited that
love was the core of marriage; she negated the fears of the Prophet and affirmed the
truth. How many times do we hurt each other with words? Islaam should refine us. Khadijah
exemplified the idea that behind every great man is a great woman; she was the great
woman behind the greatest man to walk the earth, the Prophet .
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6. Nay! Verily, man does transgress All bounds (in disbelief and evil deed, etc.).
7. because He considers himself self-sufficient. 8. Surely! unto Your Lord is the
return.

The sixth ayah of this surah begins with the word, kallaa, which both affirms and negates.

The ayah points out that mankind can become arrogant and transgress when he forgets how
dependent he is on Allaah . In the case of such people, it is as though the Shaytaan is
dragging them by a leash. However, wealth is something beneficial to a person if he holds it in
his hand and not in his heart. In the Hadeeth of the Prophet Muhammad ,

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Wealth is a blessed thing when its in the hand of the righteous person.
[Al Albani]

Ayahs 7 and 8 were revealed because of Abu Jahl. Allaah consoles the Prophet telling
him that the people, including Abu Jahl, have become tyrants due to their wealth but the return
is to Allaah . It is a source of comfort to realize that this life is so short so the hardship
will not last forever. Wealth is a major corrupting factor in the case of Abu Jahl; he considered
himself to be self-sufficient due to his immense wealth and many children.

7

Wealth is a desire and many people dream of riches but the reality is that few people survive
that test if Allaah gives it to them. The more money people have the stingier they
become. It is like a punishment from Allaah that such people can only foresee poverty
even though their bank accounts are full. When one helps those who are in need, they are
helping themselves. As it is said in the Hadeeth Qudsi,

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On the authority of Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, Allaah said,
Spend O son of Adam out of that which Allaah has given you, Allaah will then
spend upon you.
[Bukhari, Muslim]

Ayah 8 also points out the relativity of time and shortness of life, both of which are mentioned
frequently in the Quraan. Allaah is consoling the Prophet by mentioning this.
This ayah implies that his return will be to Allaah and, thus he shouldnt worry because
these hardships are only temporary and wont last forever.

The core focus of Islaam is self development and mastering oneself so that one is truly able to
submit oneself to Allaah under all conditions at all times. We must refine ourselves
through the control of our nafs. People want to establish an Islaamic state but we find that we
havent established the Islaamic state within ourselves. We are striving to have international
presence without focusing on refining ourselves. The beauty of Islaam emanated from the core
of the early Muslims; if we cannot absorb Islaam into the marrow of our bones, then we have a
lot of work to do. If we want to make a change, we need to start with ourselves. We need to
become the difference we want to see in others. We need to talk less and act more.

Forbidding the Worship of Allaah Forbidding the Worship of Allaah Forbidding the Worship of Allaah Forbidding the Worship of Allaah

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9. have You (O Muhammad (Sal-Allaahu 'alayhe Wa Sallam)) seen Him (i.e. Ab Jahl) who
prevents, 10. a slave (Muhammad (Sal-Allaahu 'alayhe Wa Sallam)) when He prays?

Abu Jahl was doomed because he waged a war against Allaah and His Messenger .
8

When the Quraysh saw the Prophet would pray by the Kabah as Ibrahim did,
they allowed their emotions to overcome them. One of the strongest emotions we have is
anger, which blinds us and clouds our thinking. Shaytaan caused Abu Jahl to be filled with
hatred for someone who everybody else loved. The Prophet had a special place in the
heart of the people but the hatred and rage of Abu Jahl was so great that he threatened the
Prophet with death if the Prophet ever prayed there again.

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11. tell Me, if He (Muhammad ) is on the guidance (of Allh)? 12. or enjoins
piety? 13. tell Me if He (the disbeliever, Ab Jahl) denies (the truth, i.e. This
Qur'n), and turns away? 14. knows He not that Allh does see (What He does)?

By stopping the Prophet from praying, Abu Jahl committed a mortal sin. These series of
ayaat are a means of comfort to us as believers as well. Allaah encourages the believers
to continue along the path of goodness and to not allow people like Abu Jahl, or those who
have characteristics similar to him, to hinder them in their worship. The goal of the believer
should be to seek nearness to Allaah and if he is indeed beloved to Allaah , then
the stance of the whole world for you or against you doesnt matter.

Allaah shows, through these ayaat, that the doings of Abu Jahl do not go unnoticed. The
One who has created him, given him wealth, children and the tribe he prides himself on, is the
same One who can destroy him.

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15. Nay! if He (Ab Jahl) ceases not, we will catch him by the forelock, 16. a
lying, sinful forelock!

Although these ayaat refer to Abu Jahl, they also apply to anyone who has his characteristics.
The qualities that Allaah mentions are a warning for us.
9

Also, Allaah threatens to catch Abu Jahl by the forelock. The forelock is the front portion
of ones hair. This is one of the most humiliating things that can be done to a person. Abu Jahl
used this threat against the Prophet so Allaah issued a warning to Abu Jahl to stop
his tactics.
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17. then, let Him call upon his council (of helpers), 18. we will call the guards of
Hell (to deal with him)!

If Abu Jahl had continued his campaign, Allaah would have commanded the angels
destroy him. Allaah does not want to send people to Hell, rather He allows everyone
the choice- if thats the destination someone chooses for themselves, then Allaah will
give him that.

Furthermore, in these ayaat, Allaah is documenting His curse upon Abu Jahl. Imagine
hearing this verse recited; how many Muslims recite this curse against Abu Jahl everyday? Abu
Jahl is doomed for eternity.

Continue in Your Path and do not Allow Such People to Hinder You Continue in Your Path and do not Allow Such People to Hinder You Continue in Your Path and do not Allow Such People to Hinder You Continue in Your Path and do not Allow Such People to Hinder You

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19. Nay! (O Muhammad )! do not obey Him (Ab Jahl). fall prostrate and
draw near to Allh!
When the Quraan mentions a part of salah, it refers to the salah as a whole. The sujood
represents complete submission and voluntary surrendering to the Creator of the Heavens and the
Earth. This act of voluntary servitude to Allaah places Muslims amongst those who are
the nearest and dearest to Allaah . Our primary goal should be to seek nearness to Allaah
without the desire to impress others or yearn for their approval. There is no obedience to
the creation when it involves disobeying Allaah . If there is someone who is prompting
you to disobey Allaah , dont obey him, yet treat him kindly because you should desire for
him to become an obedient slave of Allaah s as well.
10

QURANIC GEMS

Proof of divine revelation and Prophethood.
Teaching: begin reading the Quraan with the basmAllaah.
Proof of human creation
Proof of Allaahs greatness and generosity.
Relationship between writing & knowledge stresses literacy.
One of Allaahs many blessings upon humans- knowledge.
Wealth is a major corrupting factor.
Dire need for human refinement through iman & taqwa.
It is a mortal sin to prevent others from worshipping Allaah .
Opposites are not alike: being guided & astray, tawhid & shirk, iman & kufr.
Beware: Allaah sees and hears you always and has complete knowledge and
power over everything.
Warning: stop before its too late.
o Do not abuse Allaahs kindness. Do not tread on thin ice.
Allaahs aide to the messenger via angels.
Documentation of Allaahs curse upon Abu Jahl.
Command: do not disobey Allaah for anyone.
Command: pray to Allaah (alone), worship only Allaah .
Command: Seek nearness to Allaah through obedience.
Sujud Telawah
11
12
Touched by an Angel Chapter 2: Surah al-Lahab - 111

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The Flame

The message of Islaam had not yet been proclaimed in public until the command came from
Allaah to Prophet Muhammad to do so. Upon receiving this revelation, Prophet
Muhammad climbed atop Mount Safa and called out to each of the tribes of Quraish. It
was customary to warn against the approach of an army from the same place that Muhammad
stood that day. Their trust in him as someone who only spoke the truth prompted them
to rush and gather around him. He relayed to them the message of Islaam and told them if they
didnt worship Allaah alone, they would suffer something far worse than the army attack
they feared. This was the moment of truth, the moment in which those who would submit
would be separated from those who would reject the message. Ironically, the Prophets
own uncle, Abu Lahab opposed his message. Shaytaan caused his uncle to belittle the truth that
the Prophet was calling towards. Abu Lahab cursed the Prophet and angrily
exclaimed, May you perish! At that prime moment, Allaah defended his beloved
Prophet by revealing Surah Lahab. He defended His most dearest and nearest by cursing
out Abu Lahab in the Quraan. This surah presents eternal damnation for Abu Lahab and his
wife who worked tirelessly against Islaam.

13

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Perish the two hands of Ab Lahab (an uncle of the Prophet ), and perish he!
(1) His wealth and his children will not benefit him! (2) He will be burnt in a Fire of
blazing flames! (3) And his wife too, who carries wood (thorns of Sadan which she
used to put on the way of the Prophet , or use to slander him). (4) In her neck
is a twisted rope of Masad (palm fibre). (5)

14
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The Flame
Cursed are those who oppose the truth Cursed are those who oppose the truth Cursed are those who oppose the truth Cursed are those who oppose the truth

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1. Perish the two hands of Ab Lahab (an uncle of the Prophet), and perish He! 2.
his wealth and his Children (etc.) will not benefit him!

Allaah emphasizes that Abu Lahab is absolutely doomed for eternity. Yada, hands, are
symbolism for power and might. Not only did Abu Lahab curse the beloved of Allaah ,
but he also rejected the truth at a time when many people could have accepted it. By
renouncing it, he affirmed the same in the mind of others and made the task of delivering this
beautiful message harder for the Prophet .

The word Maa, in the second ayah, has two meanings. It can be used to pose a question, hence
in this case it is asking in a rhetorical sense, how has what Abu Lahab acquired benefited him?
Maa is also used as a negation. In this ayah, maa signifies that the mass wealth and many
children that Abu Lahab had would not help him to escape the punishment of Allaah .
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3. He will be burnt In a Fire of blazing flames!

These words describing the torment of Hell may be fathomable, but the reality of the flames of
this Fire is utterly unfathomable. We can never truly grasp the extent of this blazing Fire. In
those days, one of the modes of entertainment for the Arabs was by an exhibit of the Croatian
flames. The sparkling sound emanating from them, the different colors and crackling of the
wood easily ensnared their senses. However, the fire of Hell that Allaah is talking about
will be nothing like they or we have seen before. It is unimaginable torment for the likes of Abu
Lahab who turn people away from the true path.
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4. and his wife too, who carries wood (thorns of Sadan which she used to put on
the Way of the Prophet , or use to slander Him). 5. In her neck is a twisted
Rope of Masad (palm fibre).

Abu Lahab and his wife, Umm Jameel, both decided to be partners in crime. She took charge of
putting thorns along the path of the Prophet and even sold her gold to finance her lowly
tactics against the Prophet . She gave charity fi sabeeli Taaghoot (in the way of
falsehood). The extent of her stinginess was reflected in her doing all these acts on her own
rather than hiring a servant do so. Instead of leaving the Prophet to himself, they
wanted nothing more than to inflict harm on him. Because of that, this ayah clearly shows that
she will be humiliated along with her husband.

Allaah describes the torment Umm Jameel will face in akhirah; this is a reflection of the
gold necklace she sold to use the money against Prophet Muhammad . A comparison
made between Aasiya, the wife of Firawn and Umm Jameel shows that the former did not fall
prey to her husbands acts of oppression against people and Allaah . It shows that she
died for her belief in Allaah , yet Umm Jameel was the opposite of her. She and her
husband raced in doing evil works. This point portrays that spouses can either be a means of
inspiration and good works, or the opposite with results similar to Abu Lahab and Umm
Jameels. Additionally, it should be noted that the influence that people have on each other
can bring forth positive or negative results. Furthermore, people choose to go to Hell because
Allaah has given countless opportunities to do good deeds in this dunya. He wants us to
go to Jannah. However, when people persist in wrong doing, then their end is the horrible
abode of hell which is not oppression for them, but justice, because that was their own choice.

When Allaah proclaims someones destruction in the Quraan, then that persons fate is
sealed and they indeed end up in Hell. To prove the Quraan wrong, Abu Jahl could have
become Muslim. However, he couldnt! He had sealed his fate and thus was given the news of
eternal doom in his lifetime.

QURAANIC GEMS

Allaahs pronounced decree upon Abu Lahab & his wife damnation.
Wealth & children can delude and be in vain
It is Haraam to abuse the prophet specifically and believers in general.
Lineage alone benefits nothing if there is shirk & kufr.
Description of Hells punishment collars and leashes of fire.
16
17
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18
When the sun is wound round and lost its light (is lost and is overthrown). (1) And
when the stars fall; (2) And when the mountains are made to pass away; (3) And
when the pregnant shecamels are be neglected; (4) And when the wild beasts are
gathered together; (5) And when the seas become as blazing Fire or overflow; (6)
And when the souls are joined with their bodies (the good with the good and bad
with the bad). (7) And when the female (infant) buried alive (as the pagan Arabs used
to do) is questioned. (8) For what sin was she killed? (9) And when the (written)
pages [of deeds (good and bad) of every person] are laid open; (10) And when the
heaven is stripped off and taken away from its place; (11) And when Hellfire is set
ablaze. (12) And when Paradise is brought near, (13) (Then) every person will know
what he has brought (of good and evil). (14) So verily, I swear by the planets that
recede (i.e. disappear during the day and appear during the night). (15) And by the
planets that move swiftly and hide themselves, (16) And by the night as it departs;
(17) And by the dawn as it brightens; (18) Verily, this is the Word (this Qur'n
brought by) a most honourable messenger [Jibrail (Gabriel), from Allh to the
Prophet Muhammad ] (19) Owner of power, (and high rank) with (Allh) the
Lord of the Throne, (20) Obeyed (by the angels in the heavens) and trustworthy.
(21) And (O people) your companion (Muhammad ) is not a madman; (22)
And indeed he (Muhammad ) saw him [Jibril (Gabriel)] in the clear horizon
(towards the east) (23) And he (Muhammad ) withholds not a knowledge of the
unseen. (24) And it (the Qur'n) is not the word of the outcast Shaitn (Satan). (25)
Then where are you going? (26) Verily, this (the Qur'n) is no less than a Reminder
to (all) the 'Alamn (mankind and jinn). (27) To whomsoever among you who wills
to walk straight, (28) And you cannot will, unless (it be) that Allh wills, the Lord of
the 'Alamn (mankind, jinn and all that exists). (29)

19
Touched by an Angel Chapter 3: Surah at-Takweer - 81

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The Folding Up

The Apocalypse The Apocalypse The Apocalypse The Apocalypse

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1. when the sun Kuwwirat (wound round and lost its light and is overthrown). 2.
and when the stars shall fall; 3. and when the mountains shall made to pass
away; 4. and when the pregnant she-camels shall be neglected; 5. and when the
wild beasts shall be gathered together; 6. and when the seas shall become as
blazing Fire or shall overflow;

The first word of this ayah, , is known as a conditional article (shart) in the Arabic language.
However its usage in this ayah implies that it is referring to something that will happen in the
future without a doubt. The phenomenon described in the first ayah is unfathomable to us; as
humans we cant even begin to grasp the idea of the sun being rolled and disappearing along
with its warmth and light. Although we cannot truly grasp this image, we believe in what Allaah
is telling us will happen to the sun on the Day of Judgment.

At-Takweer means to gather one part of something with another part of it (i.e., folding). Al-
Àwfi reported from Ibn Àbbas; "It will go away.'' Qatadah said, "Its light will go away.'' Saìd
bin Jubayr said, "Kuwwirat means it will sink in.'' Abu Salih said, "Kuwwirat means it will be
thrown down.'' From these statements of scholars, we have understood that kuwwirat is that
part of the sun that will be folded up into another part of it. Then it will be rolled up and thrown
away. When this is done, the light of the sun will go away.

The falling and disappearing of the stars is another sign that will occur preceding the Day of
Judgment. Ar-Rabi` bin Anas reported from Abu Al-Àliyah, who reported from Ubayy bin Ka`b
that he said, "Six signs will take place before the Day of Judgment. The people will be in their
20

marketplaces when the sun's light will go away. When they are in that situation, the stars will
be scattered. When they are in that situation, the mountains will fall down upon the face of the
earth, and the earth will move, quake and be in a state of mixed up confusion. So the Jinns will
then flee in fright to the humans and the humans will flee to the Jinns. The domestic beasts,
birds and wild animals will mix together, and they will surge together in a wave (of chaos).

Mountains are huge and solid. They act as pegs to hold the earth down. However, that day they
will be as if they never existed. These mountains will become like cotton and fluff. They will
float away like clouds and the earth will be left as a flat, level, plain.

Camels were the main source of wealth among the Arabs. It was the most sustainable thing in
the desert for them. When a camel is pregnant, she is of even more value because of the
abundance of milk and the addition of another camel. However, with the advent of the Day of
Judgment, this she camel will be completely neglected as if she was worthless. The analogy
drawn from this ayah is that, due to the magnitude of that Day, everything and everyone that
mattered to us will be completely ignored.

The animals recognize things that we as humans dont. They will recognize what is happening
and, out of fear, they will herd together. Amongst them, justice will be established. However,
they will be turned into dust thereafter.

The Sun will be thrown into the ocean. Seas will be ignited, just as a cigarette is lit and set
ablaze. The water which extinguishes fire in this dunya will be overtaken by it.

A summary of 6 apocalyptic events to occur in this world is as follows:
1. The sun and its light will vanish
2. Stars will fall and disappear
3. The mountains will crumble
4. Everything precious will be neglected
5. The wild beasts will be gathered together
6. The seas will be set ablaze
The remainder of the signs, as seen in ayaat 8 to 13 will occur in the akhirah.
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7. and when the souls shall be joined with their bodies; 8. and when the female
(infant) buried alive (as the pagan Arabs used to do) shall be questioned. 9. for
what sin she was killed? 10. and when the written Pages of deeds (good and bad)
of Every person shall be laid open; 11. and when the heaven shall be stripped off
and taken away from its place; 12. and when Hell-fire shall be kindled to fierce
ablaze. 13. and when Paradise shall be brought near,

The word nufoos, in ayah 7, carries multiple meanings. Scholars say this is referring to when the
body and soul come together againthe resurrection, which was one of the main aspects of
Islaam in which the kufaar disbelieved. Other scholars say this is in regards to when groups of
believers, disbelievers and hypocrites will be gathered together.

The Jaahiliyyah Arabs killed the girls who were born because they feared that their daughters
might commit some wrong that would bring shame onto their families. They also wanted to
give all of their provisions to their sons in order to raise strong men, therefore they would kill
their daughters. They performed this act of murder in a ruthless way- by burying them alive.
Umar could not hold back his tears in remorse as he recalled how he buried his
daughter.
Even though the infant girl was pure since, as Muslims, we dont believe in original sin, she will
be questioned as well. There will be complete justice for everyone. Even today, we have not
progressed too far Islaamically. Culturally, many feel that if their first child is not a son, they
have been disgraced and that results in ill treatment and neglect of daughters. In some places,
abortion is considered a solution when news of a baby girl is received.
Everyone will be awaiting their books and the level of fear and anticipation during this time will
be intense. No one will know whether they will receive their book in their right hand or left
hand behind the back. Ad-Dahhak said, "Every person will be given his paper in his right hand or
in his left hand.'' Qatadah said, "O Son of Adam! It (your paper) is written in, then it is rolled up,
then it will be distributed to you on the Day of Judgment. So let each man look at what he
himself dictated to be written in his paper.''
The seamless sky that we behold daily will be torn down and ripped off. The fire of Jahannam
will be kindled and prepared to bestow a punishment unlike any other. The believers at that
moment will see the hell-fire and will be so frightened that they will turn to Allaah and
seek His help and protection. They will then see Jennah and will ask Allaah to have
mercy upon them and bless them with Jennah. Ad-Dahhak, Abu Malik, Qatadah, and Ar-Rabi`
bin Khuthaym, all said about ayah 13, "This means it will be brought near to its inhabitants.''
The six apocalyptic events that will occur in this world are:

1. Reunification of body & soul.
22

2. Trial of the innocent female infants buried alive.
3. The book of deeds is given out.
4. The sky will be torn off.
5. Hell will be roused.
6. Heaven is drawn near.

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14. (Then) Every person will know what He has brought (of good and evil).

The preceding twelve signs all point to this one ayah. This is the reason for their occurrence.

At this point, knowledge will be certain and everyone will have absolute awareness of
themselves. On that day, knowledge shall be certain and perception shall match reality.
Everyone will clearly know how they spent their lives and will await accountability in the court
of Allaah . This is something so serious. Believers will enter Jannah out of the mercy of
Allaah and not solely out of the good they performed in this dunya.

Prophethood and Divine Revelation Prophethood and Divine Revelation Prophethood and Divine Revelation Prophethood and Divine Revelation

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15. so Verily, I swear by the planets that recede (i.e. disappear during the Day
and appear during the night). 16. and by the planets that move swiftly and hide
themselves, 17. and by the night as it departs; 18. and by the dawn as it
brightens;

23

Allaah is taking an oath by the planets. Since Allaah created everything, it is
befitting for Him alone to swear by certain objects. Allaah chooses to swear by them due
to their magnificent nature and great magnitude. This is done in order to make us realize the
importance of what is being said. The Prophet said, Whoever wants to take an oath
should take it in the name of Allaah or keep silent.
1
Swearing by other Allaah is
shirk.
With scientific advancements, we should have a greater appreciation when we read that Allaah
swears by the planets. By looking at them with the naked eye, they look like they are
twinkling, but looking at them through a telescope we see that these planets have their own
orbits and move around their own special paths by the decree of Allaah . One opinion is
that these are the stars that withdraw (disappear) during the day and sweep across the sky
(appear) at night.
If one cannot appreciate the greatness of the planets, Allaah then swears by the night as
it ends and the day as it begins.

Asas means to come and to go at the same time; this is a combined opposite. The darkness
of the night is like death and the morning brings life as light spreads throughout thereby
allowing people to seek their livelihood, which in itself is a blessing from Allaah .

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19. Verily, This is the word (this Qur'n brought by) a Most honourable
Messenger [Jibrael (Gabriel), from Allh to the Prophet Muhammad (Sal-Allaahu
'alayhe Wa Sallam)]. 20. Owner of power, and High rank with (Allh) the Lord of
the Throne, 21. obeyed (by the angels), trustworthy there (in the heavens).

Allaah swears by all these things due to those who questioned His Wahy. To accuse the
revelation from Allaah to be false is a very heavy offense. This message comes from an
honorable messenger, Jibreel . Jibree l is a special angel who is very powerful;
angels never disobey Allaah and always fulfill His commands perfectly. The Prophet

1
SaHeeh Muslim
24

was the most honorable man and he did not make mistakes in Islaam, otherwise Allaah
would correct him. This shows that revelation from Allaah is perfect.

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22. and (O people) Your companion (Muhammad (Sal-Allaahu 'alayhe Wa
Sallam)) is not a madman; 23. and indeed He (Muhammad (Sal-Allaahu 'alayhe
Wa Sallam)) saw Him [Jibrael (Gabriel)] In the clear horizon (towards the east).
24. and He (Muhammad (Sal-Allaahu 'alayhe Wa Sallam)) withholds not a
knowledge of the unseen. 25. and it (the Qur'n) is not the word of the outcast
Shaitn (Satan).

The Prophet is not insane. He sees things of the unseen that Allaah has allowed
him to see. In order to reassure the Prophet , Allaah commanded Jibreel
to reveal himself in his true form more than once. He is huge, has 600 wings and, when
Prophet saw him, he covered the entire horizon.
The Prophet was protected by Allaah from making any mistakes in teaching the religion.
The things that he taught were from Allaah . Ayah 24 is clarifying that the Prophet
himself does not know anything of the unseen. Whatever he saw from it was from the blessing
of Allaah .
Contrary to what the disbelievers were saying, the Shayateen were prevented from hearing the
words of Allaah before their revelation. The Quraan is protected from this and this
Word is not from them; it is from a protected source.
Additionally, follow the Messenger who you know is trustworthy and honest and who is
receiving the message from the most honorable of angels.

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26. Then where are You going?
25

This is a serious question directed towards those who are intent on disbelieving in the message
of Islaam. If they continue to disbelieve, follow the lies and false accusations, and continue on
the wrong path, then where do they think they are going? Is there anywhere they can go where
they can hide from Allaah ? No, no one can escape from Allaah so instead we
should run towards Him .
However, by returning to Allaah before its too late, the doors of tawbah will still be
open for them.
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27. Verily, This (the Qur'n) is no less than a Reminder to (all) the 'Alamn
(mankind and jinns). 28. To whomsoever among You who wills to walk straight,
29. and You will not, unless (it be) that Allh wills, the Lord of the 'Alamn
(mankind, jinns and All that exists).

This message is a reminder for all in existence. Alam is the different levels of creation including
Jinn and Humans. It is an inherent trait that we are forgetful and so we need to be reminded.
Even though Allaah allows us to make our own choices, He commands us to follow Him.
And unless it is by the will of Allaah , people will not be guided. We need to realize that
everything is under Allaahs control and if a person is sincere, Allaah will give him
tawfeeq to continue along the straight path.

QURANIC GEMS

Belief in the resurrection and Judgment.

Detail explanation of the cataclysmic events surrounding the Hour.

The road to salvation: correct belief & good deeds.

The road to perdition: idolatry & sins.
26

All the aforementioned 12 signs point to this ayah.

Fact: On that day knowledge shall be certain, perception shall match reality in truth.

Fact: on that day everyone shall have absolute awareness of themselves and their
state.

The permissibility of swearing an oath upon Allaah , His beautiful names and
sublime attributes.

Fact: The Quraan is Allaahs revelation to His messenger Muhammad
via Jibreel

Description of the archangel Jibreel .

Allaah establishess the Prophets innocence and defends him against
false accusations.

No matter how bad life gets, turn to Allaah because you know that His Will
supersedes all.
27
28
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Glorify the Name of your Lord, the Most High, (1) Who has created (everything),
and then proportioned it; (2) And Who has measured (preordainments for everything
even to be blessed or wretched); and then guided (i.e. showed mankind the right as
well as wrong paths, and guided the animals to pasture); (3) And Who brings out the
29
pasturage, (4) And then makes it dark stubble (5) We shall make you to recite (the
Qur'n), so you (O Muhammad ) shall not forget (it), (6) Except what Allh,
may will, He knows what is apparent and what is hidden. (7) And We shall make
easy for you (O Muhammad ) the easy way (i.e. the doing of righteous deeds).
(8) Therefore remind (men) in case the reminder profits (them) (9) The reminder will
be received by him who fears (Allh), (10) But it will be avoided by the wretched,
(11) Who will enter the great Fire (and will be made to taste its burning). (12) There
he will neither die (to be in rest) nor live (a good living). (13) Indeed whosoever
purifies himself (by avoiding polytheism and accepting Islmic Monotheism) shall
achieve success, (14) And remembers (glorifies) the Name of his Lord (worships none
but Allh), and prays (five compulsory prayers and Nawfil additional prayers).
(15) Nay, you prefer the life of this world, (16) Although the Hereafter is better and
more lasting. (17) Verily, this is in the former Scriptures (18) The Scriptures of
Ibrhim (Abraham) and Msa (Moses). (19)

30
Touched by an Angel Chapter 4: Surah al-Alaa - 87

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The Most High

Exalted be Allaah Exalted be Allaah Exalted be Allaah Exalted be Allaah from all that is ascribed to Him from all that is ascribed to Him from all that is ascribed to Him from all that is ascribed to Him

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1. Glorify the Name of Your Lord, the Most High. 2. Who has created
(everything), and Then proportioned it; 3. And who has measured
(preordainments for each and everything even to be blessed or wretched); Then
guided (i.e. showed mankind the Right as well as wrong paths, and guided the
animals to pasture); 4. and who brings out the pasturage, 5.and Then makes it
dark stubble.

Allaah introduces this surah by commanding the Prophet and us to glorify Him.
This command reflects the fact that Allaah should be the main object of our love and
admiration. He is the Most High and is deserving of praise and glorification and should
be mentioned only in an exalted manner. Since Allaah commands us to glorify Him in
this ayah, we should say subHana Rabi al-Alaa. The Prophet used to interact with the
Quraan.

Allaah did not create us in vain. He created everything in the best form and according to
the best scale. Every variation in our appearances is a manifestation of the perfection of Allaah.

Allaah has sent guidance that stands out from falsehood. Allaah has measured
everything in the most perfect of ways. Allaahs Guidance is the most precious gift. Bilaal
endured persecution and torture to maintain this gift. He was placed outside on his
bare back, as though being placed on a burner, yet he refused to recant his faith in Islaam
because he knew the value of imaan and guidance.
31

, , = ,,~' ,' = ,_ ,, _, , = _. .,,,,',
= ,_ ' .', .,, ..,,., .,- ', ._, ,, _, , = _. , =
,,,,' ', ..~ _' ,,,,., .,- __' ,,' .,,' ,-' ,, ', .,, =
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,, ,, . . , .,,=, ,-', ., ,=' -' -'
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Narrated by Abdullah bin Masud: The first to profess Islaam were seven: The
Messenger of Allaah , Abu Bakr, Ammar bin Yaser, his mother Sumayyah, Suhaib
Ar-Rumi, Bilaal bin Rabah, and Al-Miqdad bin Al-Aswad. As for the Messenger of
Allaah then Allaah has protected him [from the polytheists] through his
uncle Abu Taalib. As for Abu Bakr, then Allaah has protected him through his
people. As for the rest of them (who did not have any patron to protect them from the
wrath of Quraish) they were taken by the polytheists who put iron armors on them and
exposed them to the blazing sun until [their skin] melted. Thereupon, they gave in to
the polytheists except for Bilaal who forsook himself for the sake of Allaah and
who was forsaken by his people. The polytheists then gave him to the boys who
dragged him around the hills of Makkah, but Bilaal kept repeating: "Ahadun Ahad!"
(Allaah is One and Only).
[Ahmed]
Allaah is the One who revives life during the spring and causes the pasturage to wither
away as the winter comes. It is He who brings our hearts to life with His revelation. This
should make us reflect on the cycle of life; soon we, too, will cease to exist. We should also be
thankful to Allaah for causing these cycles, where we are able to grow and reap different
types of crops and hence benefit from them.

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6. We shall make You to recite (the Qur'n), so You (O Muhammad (Sal-Allaahu
'alayhe Wa Sallam)) shall not forget (it) 7. Except what Allh, may will, He
knows what is apparent and what is hidden. 8. And we shall make easy for You
(O Muhammad ) the easy Way (i.e. the doing of righteous deeds).
One of the main differences between the Quraan and previous scriptures is the fact that Allaah
placed the responsibility to safeguard the Quraan upon Himself. The other scriptures
were entrusted to religious leaders however they were changed. Allaah consoles the
Prophet in these ayaat, assuring him that the Quraan will be safeguarded.
Allaah made two promises to the Prophet : Allaah will safeguard the
revelation and Allaah will help the Prophet the entire way. We must realize that the help
of Allaah is near so we should turn to Him. The first thing we do when we have problems
is turn to humans but really we should turn to Allaah and have full dependence on Him.

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9. Therefore remind (men) In case the Reminder profits (them) 10. The Reminder
will be received by Him who fears (Allh), 11. but it will be avoided by the
wretched, 12. who will enter the great Fire and made to taste its burning, 13.
wherein He will neither die (to be In rest) nor live (a good living).

The responsibility of the Prophet was to remind and convey the message to the people.
It may have profited some and may not have done so for others. We cannot convert people
but we have to provide the example of what Islaam is. We must keep this in mind when we are
giving dawah to both Muslims and non-Muslims; it is our job to convey the message, not
convert others. The same principle should be taken in parenting; as parents, do not force
Islaam on children, rather, lead by example by making the home a happy place because you are
following Islaam.

33

The ones who have life and fear of Allaah in their hearts will be the ones who heed the
reminder. They fear being punished by Allaah and fear the Hell fire. The fear of Allaah
encompasses the fear of disappointing Allaah because those who love Him would
hate to disappoint Him.

The truth is not based on the people; the truth is beyond that. The truth is the truth no matter
where it comes from, just as Abu Huraira had learned a truth from Shaytan:

,,, _' = ._
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[_- _,-.]

Abu Hurairah (a companion of Muhammad) said: The Prophet Muhammad put me in
charge of guarding compulsory charity collected in the month of Ramadan. Somebody
34

came and began to take away some food-stuff from it. I caught him and said, I must
take you to the Prophet of God. He replied, I am a needy man with a large family, and
so I have a pressing need. So I let him go. When I saw the Prophet next morning, he
asked me, O Abu Hurairah! What did your captive do last night? I said, O Prophet of
God! He complained of a pressing need and a big family. I felt pity for him and I let him
go. The prophet said, He told you a lie and he will return. I was sure according to the
saying of the Prophet that he would return. I waited for him. He sneaked up again and
began to steal food-stuff from the charity. I caught him and said, I must take you to the
Prophet. He replied, Let go of me, I am a needy man. I have to bear the expenses of a
big family. I will not come back. So I took pity on him and let him go. I went at dawn
to the Prophet who asked me, O Abu Hurairah! What did your captive do last night? I
replied, O Prophet of God! He complained of a pressing need and the burden of a big
family. I took pity on him and so I let him go. The Prophet replied, He told you a lie
and he will return. (That man) came again to steal the food-stuff. I arrested him and
said, I must take you to the Prophet of God, and this is the last of three times. You
promised that you would not come again but you did. He replied, Let go of me, and I
shall teach you some words with which God may benefit you. I asked, what are those
words? He replied, When you go to bed, recite Al-Kursi verse (Quraan 2:255), for
there will be a guardian appointed over you from God, and no devil will be able to
approach you till morning. So I let him go. Next morning the Prophet of God asked
me, What did your prisoner do last night. I answered, He promised to teach me some
words which he claimed will benefit me before God. So I let him go. The Prophet
asked, What are those words that he taught you? I said, He told me: When you go to
bed, recite Al-Kursi verse from the beginning to the end and that by reciting it, there
will be a guardian appointed over you from God who will protect you during the night,
and no devil will be able to come near you until morning. The Prophet said, Verily, he
has told you the truth though he is a liar. O Abu Hurairah! Do you know with whom
you were speaking for the last three nights? I said, No. The prophet replied, That
was a devil.
[Bukhaari]

The message will be avoided by those who have no fear of their Lord; those whose hearts are
cold and lifeless. These people will enter the most horrific of fires where they will remain in this
state forever. They will not be in a state of living, nor will they be dead. They will continually
feel the pain of torment and various types of punishments. They will undergo this great
torment because they rejected the reminder that was sent to them.

35

The Victors The Victors The Victors The Victors

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14. Indeed whosoever purifies himself (by avoiding polytheism and accepting
Islmic Monotheism) shall achieve success, 15. and remembers (glorifies) the
Name of his Lord (worships none but Allh), and prays (five compulsory prayers
and Nawfil additional prayers) 16. Nay, You prefer the life of This world 17.
although the Hereafter is better and more lasting 18. Verily! This is In the former
Scriptures, 19. the Scriptures of Ibrhim (Abraham) and Msa (Moses).

Whoever tries to purify himself, will find his success with Allaah . To be from amongst
the winners in the Hereafter, one must seek to purify himself. The sole reason the prophets
were sent was to purify the people thereby showing the importance of this act. One who
continues to purify himself and does what he must by remembering Allaah constantly
and works toward the perfection of his Salah, is treading the path towards gaining closeness to
Allaah . One must purify himself inside and out. Ibn al-Qayyim states, Ward off passing
thoughts, for if you do not, they will become ideas. Ward off ideas, for if you do not, they will
become desires. Fight them, for if you do not, they will become resolve and determination, and
if you do not ward them off, they will become actions. If you do not resist them with their
opposite, they will become habits and it will be difficult for you to get rid of them.
1

But no! Humans prefer the life of this world, where we have wealth and comfort. We do not
invest our money and resources where we should, such as in Islaamic schools or paying the
teachers well. We do not use the blessings that Allaah gave us for His sake. We envision
things in the short-term; we prefer this life over the Hereafter. Why are we so unfair when it
comes to Allaah ? Our hearts and souls should be for Allaah , not this dunya.

1
Al-Fawaa'id by Ibn al-Qayyim, p. 33
36

Allaah tells us about our psychological qualities. He tells us this to give us the
opportunity to change. The more we are able to take the dunya out of our hearts and put it
into our hands so that we control it and it does not control us, the closer we are to being
successful. In order to purify ourselves, we must reevaluate our priorities and choose the
Hereafter over this life. As long as we prefer this dunya and what is in it, we will not truly be
able to purify ourselves. How can we prefer this dunya when the Akhirah is better and
everlasting?
Allaah will tell the people of Jannah to ask for whatever they want and they will be
unable to even think of what they could possibly want other than the blessing of being in
Jennah. We need to remind ourselves of the beauty of Jennah to assist us towards lessening
our love for this dunya.
This Quraan, what is in it, is not unique; the message of la ilaha ilallah, the glad tidings,
warnings and commands have always been there. They have been sent through the scriptures
of Ibraheem and Moosa before they were sent to Muhammad .
37

QURANIC GEMS
Command: Glorify Allaah from any and all matters that arent true.
Interact with the Quraan and say Subhana Rabbiyal-Alaa when this ayah is recited.
Command: We are to say this in Sujood.
Allaah demonstrates His magnificence through His creation- Tawhid ar-Rububiyyah.
Know the different Sunnan salawaat to recite this surah. [Witr, Jummah, Eid]
Command: Remind humanity
Fact: Reminders benefit those who are conscious of Allaah
Fact: The miserable losers will avoid the reminders
Fact: Hell is the ultimate fire; in it life exists on the verge of death, eternally
Gems for salvation: zakah, dhikr, and salah
Paradigm shift regarding this life and the next.
Continuity of messages within the different Holy books Allaah is one God and He
will always be the one God and the messengers before all called to the same message.

38
39

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40
By the night as it envelops; (1) By the day as it appears in brightness; (2) By Him
Who created male and female; (3) Certainly, your efforts and deeds are diverse
(different in aims and purposes); (4) As for him who gives (in charity) and keeps his
duty to Allh and fears Him, (5) And believes in AlHusna. (6) We will make
smooth for him the path of ease (goodness). (7) But he who is greedy miser and
thinks himself selfsufficient. (8) And gives belies AlHusna (See the footnote of the
Verse No: 6); (9) We will make smooth for him the path for evil; (10) And what will
his wealth avail him when he goes down (in destruction). (11) Truly! on Us is (to
give) guidance, (12) And truly, unto Us (belong) the last (Hereafter) and the first (this
world). (13) Therefore I have warned you of a blazing (Hell); (14) None shall enter it
save the most wretched, (15) Who denies and turns away. (16) And AlMuttaqn
(the pious and righteous see V.2:2) will be far removed from it (Hell). (17) He who
spends his wealth for increase in selfpurification, (18) And who has (in mind) no
favour from anyone, (19) Except to seek the Countenance of his Lord, the Most
High; (20) He surely, will be pleased (when he will enters Paradise). (21)

41
Touched by an Angel Chapter 5: Surah al-Layl - 92

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1. By the night as it envelops; 2. And by the Day as it appears In brightness; 3.
And by Him who created male and female. 4. Certainly, Your efforts and deeds
are diverse (different In aims and purposes).

Allaah begins with an oath. He swears, not just by the night, but by the night that
envelopes. This refers to everything the night entails, including the lack of light, the things that
are apparent and those that have been hidden by the night. The night is also a blessing for us,
since we find rest at this time.

Allaah then goes on to make an oath by the day and its brightness and sunlight. The
blessings of the sunlight are also many as it provides all living things with the nourishment
needed to live and energy necessary to sustain other forms of life.

Allaah then swears by Himself as the one who has created the male and female. The
creation of the male and female includes beasts and humans. This shows us that we have a
finite beginning as humans. This ayah proves that we did not evolve from primordial creatures
(theory of evolution), rather Allaah created us.

Everybody has their own aspirations and goals; everyone progresses in his or her own direction.
However, we should all have one goal: to purify ourselves and worship Allaah alone.

Which Path is Beloved to Allaah Which Path is Beloved to Allaah Which Path is Beloved to Allaah Which Path is Beloved to Allaah ? ? ? ?
42

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5. As for Him who gives (in charity) and keeps his duty to Allh and fears him, 6.
and believes In Al-Husna, 7. We will make smooth for Him the Path of ease
(goodness).
Allaah begins to tell us of two groups of people who differ in how they respond to the
blessings that Allaah has granted them. The one who gives from what Allaah has
blessed him with, and keeps his duty to Allaah and fears him, is striving along the path
that is beloved to Allaah .
Allaah mentions al-Husna in ayah 6. Al-Husna is one of the names of Jennah and believes
in this place and strives to get there. Allaah tells us that He will make the path easy for
those who give in charity and fear Him (are cautious).
Allaah blesses those who obey Him by allowing them to continue along the path of
doing good deeds. Allaah provides ease along this path to those who strive.

Which Path Does Allaah Which Path Does Allaah Which Path Does Allaah Which Path Does Allaah Despise? Despise? Despise? Despise?
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8. But He who is greedy miser and thinks himself self-sufficient, 9. and gives the
lie to Al-Husna, 10. we will make smooth for Him the Path for evil
Allaah now tells us of the path other people take. The miserly person can be greedy
with his wealth, time, knowledge, etc. Greed can encompass any of the blessings that Allaah
has bestowed upon us.
These people belie the belief in al-Husna. Since they have prevented themselves from giving in
charity, they have also chosen an evil path because of their arrogance and miserliness.
43

They prevent themselves from giving for Allaahs sake, and so Allaah prevents
their wealth from gaining barakah therefore their greed for wealth is never satiated. Allaah
is making their path to evil easier and their actions have facilitated that.

The Destruction of He The Destruction of He The Destruction of He The Destruction of He Who Thinks Only Wealth will Save Him Who Thinks Only Wealth will Save Him Who Thinks Only Wealth will Save Him Who Thinks Only Wealth will Save Him

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11. And what will his wealth benefit Him when He goes down (in destruction).
12. Truly! ours it is (to give) guidance, 13. and Truly, unto us (belong) the Last
(Hereafter) and the first (this world). 14. Therefore I have warned you of a Fire
blazing fiercely (Hell), 15. none shall enter it save the most wretched, 16. who
denies and turns away.

How will a persons wealth help him once he passes into the next world? We are being told of
the destruction of he who thinks only wealth will save him. Possession of money will be to no
avail in the grave or in the Hereafter unless it has been used for the sake of Allaah . The
word tarada used in ayah 11 means to fall from a high place, showing that the rich will
leave their palaces of grandeur for a tiny place in the ground. Wealth means nothing unless it is
used for the sake of pleasing Allaah .

Allaah has made the granting of guidance an obligation upon Himself; He is the one who
guides. He makes the rules and laws and its our job to fulfill them. Allaah has
established the rules of worship through two ways:
1. By the message itself revelation - he has given us the books.
2. He has also given us a messenger to show us how it needs to be applied. The book is not
up to just our interpretation, hes also given us our teachers and examples to follow.
44

Allaah is the master and owner of both the dunya and Aakhira and everything they
contain. If you want the wealth of dunya, then understand that it is with Allaah and seek
it in the manner that has been made permissible for you. Remember the rights that Allaah has
upon you and that there should be no compromises when it comes to the obedience of Allaah
when seeking our provisions because it is only Allaah who will provide for us.

Allaah , being the Most Just, reminds us of the punishment awaiting those who take the
path of evil. He gives us so many signs and warnings through which we can protect ourselves
from the Hell Fire. Al-ashqaa are the most miserable people; they are those who have chosen
the path of evil, which will ultimately lead them into the abysmal punishment. The people who
enter the fire must really want to enter it, because out of Allaahs mercy, Islaam has
countless opportunities to gain forgiveness from Allaah .

The salvation of the believer that uses his or her wealth for the sake The salvation of the believer that uses his or her wealth for the sake The salvation of the believer that uses his or her wealth for the sake The salvation of the believer that uses his or her wealth for the sake
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17. And Al-Muttaqn (the pious and righteous) will be far removed from it
(Hell). 18. He who spends his wealth for increase In self-purification, 19. and
have In his mind no Favor from anyone for which a reward is expected In return,
20. except Only the desire to seek the Countenance of his Lord, the Most High,
21. He surely will be pleased (when He will enter Paradise).

After the ayaat about the punishment of those who have rejected Allaahs commands,
we are then told about those who believe. Allaah will remove the believers from the
punishment.
The pious believers mentioned here are those who give for the sake of Allaah from their
wealth in order to purify themselves. This was exemplified through the example of Abu Bakr
who would spend his wealth for the sake of Allaah hoping only for the reward from
Allaah . During one incident, Prophet Muhammad saw Bilaal getting tortured by
45

kuffaar. He went to Abu Bakr saying, I saw Bilaal being tortured. This simple statement led
Abu Bakar to go forth and buy Bilaal, thereby freeing him. The Prophet did not need to
request this directly of Abu Bakr because he understood what he should do without being told.
, ' ., , . . . , ' . ., _ , . ,, ,,' .
' . ,, _' , .,, . ,
The Prophet said: Had we owned anything, we would have bought Bilaal . Abu Bakr
then met with Al-Abbas and said to him: Buy me Bilaal. AlAbbas then bought Bilaal and sent
him to Abu Bakr. Abu Bakr then freed Bilaal.
[Siyaar Alaam an Nubala]

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Narrated Abu Huraira, Allaahs Messenger said: No wealth ever benefited me as
the wealth of Abu Bakr did. Upon hearing this, Abu Bakr cried and said, Am I and
my wealth for anything but you, oh Messenger of Allaah?
[Ahmed]

The Prophet of Allaah also showed that he was in no way attached to the wealth of the
dunya and he was well known for that.
,,' ' , _, . , _ ,, , = _. = ,_
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Musa b. Anas reported on the authority of his father: It never happened that Allaah's
Messenger was asked anything for the sake of Islaam and he did not give that.
There came to him a person and he gave him a large flock (of sheep and goats) and he
went back to his people and said: My people, embrace Islaam, for Muhammad gives so
much charity as if he has no fear of want.
[Muslim]

The surah concludes with Allaah assuring us that, in the long run, the individual who
spends for the sake of Allaah will be pleased in the Hereafter.
46

QURANIC GEMS
Fact: Allaahs greatness is demonstrated in His creation- Tawhid ar-Rububiyyah.
Fact: Our human ambitions are many and different. (It is ok to have these, but we should
never be so engulfed in what we want in this dunya that we forget and neglect the
Akhirah, otherwise our desires will overtake us and only until we die will we stop
wanting more and more.)
Beware of neglecting the Hereafter for this World.
Careful thought makes it clear that this world is replete with the blessings Allaah has
bestowed upon us, many times we dont even know that they are blessings.
Fact: Allaah will ease salvation for the believer who is charitable and cautious.
Command: believe, be charitable and cautious. Allaah tells us to do this.
o Allaah is really commanding us in the most beautiful ways.
Fact: Allaah will ease perdition for the stingy, disbeliever.
Beware: of greed, stinginess and disbelief.
Fact: wealth can make a difference in this world only.
Command: use it for good and it will have a dual positive affect
Fact: Allaah has made the path to salvation clear guidance.
Fact: Allaah is the king and owner of everything so we should seek Him for both.
Beware: the message is proclaimed and the warning too; no excuses.
Abu Bakrs virtues that made him the recipient of paradise.
Fact: Abu Bakr was the best sahabi because he benefitted most from the messenger and
was most like him.
Command: If you want Heaven, then follow their (the Prophet and his companions)
footsteps.
47
48
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49

By the dawn; (1) By the ten nights (i.e. the first ten days of the month of Dhul
Hjjah) , (2) And by the even and the odd (of all the creations of Allh) (3) And by
the night when it departs (4) There is indeed in them (the above oaths) sufficient
proofs for men of understanding (and that, they should avoid all kinds of sins and
disbeliefs)! (5) Saw you (O Muhammad ) not how your Lord dealt with 'Ad
(people) (6) Of Iram (Who were very tall) like (lofty) pillars, (7) The like of which
were not created in the land? (8) And (with) Thamd (people), who hewed out rocks
in the valley (to make dwellings)? (9) And (with) Fir'aun (Pharaoh), who had the
stakes (to torture men by binding them to stakes)? (10) Who did transgress beyond
bounds in the lands (in the disobedience of Allh). (11) And made therein much
mischief. (12) So your Lord poured on them different kinds of severe torment. (13)
Verily, your Lord is Ever Watchful (over them). (14) As for man, when his Lord tries
him by giving him honour and bounties, then he says (in): "My Lord has honoured
me." (15) But when He tries him, by straitening his means of life, he says: "My Lord
has humiliated me!" (16) Nay! But you treat not the orphans with kindness and
generosity (i.e. you neither treat them well, nor give them their exact right of
inheritance)! (17) And urge not one another on the feeding of AlMiskn (the poor)!
(18) And you devour inheritance all with greed, (19) And you love wealth with
much love! (20) Nay! When the earth is ground to powder, (21) And your Lord
comes with the angels in rows, (22) And Hell will be brought near that Day. On that
Day will man remember, but how will that remembrance (then) avail him? (23) He
will say: "Alas! Would that I had sent forth (good deeds) for (this) my life!" (24) So on
that Day, none will punish as He will punish (25) And none will bind (the wicked,
disbelivers and polytheists) as He will bind. (26) (It will be said to the pious
believers of Islamic Monothesim): "O (you) the one in (complete) rest and
satisfaction! (27) "Come back to your Lord, Wellpleased (yourself) and wellpleasing
(unto Him)! (28) "Enter you, then, among My (honoured) slaves, (29) "And enter
you My Paradise!" (30)

50
Touched by an Angel Chapter 6: Surah al-Fajr - 89

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1. By the dawn. 2. By the ten nights (i.e. the first ten days of the month of Dhul-
Hjjah), 3. and by the even and the odd (of All the creations of Allh) 4. and by
the night when it departs. 5. There are indeed in them (the above oaths)
sufficient proofs for men of understanding (and that, they should avoid All kinds
of sins and disbeliefs, etc.)! 6. Did You (O Muhammad (Sal-Allaahu 'alayhe Wa
Sallam)) not see (thought) How Your Lord dealt with 'Ad (people)? 7. Who were
very tall like lofty pillars, 8. the like of which were not created In the land? 9.
And (with) Thamd (people), who cut (hewed) out rocks In the valley (to make
dwellings)? 10. And (with) Fir'aun (Pharaoh), who had pegs (who used to torture
men by binding them to pegs)? 11. Who did transgress beyond bounds In the
lands (in the disobedience of Allh), 12. and made therein much mischief. 13. So
Your Lord poured on them different kinds of severe torment. 14. Verily, Your
Lord is ever Watchful (over them).
51

Allaah begins this surah with an oath. What is al Fajr? Some say this refers to Salatul
Fajr, thus giving this salah a special uniqueness and significance. Another meaning is telling us
about the morning. This word can also mean the point in time when darkness is shattered by
the rays of morning sun.
Allaah then swears by the ten nights. Scholars have said this refers to the first 10 days
of the blessed month of Dhul-Hijjah, which are the most blessed days of the year. Included
within these 10 days of Hajj is the day of Arafat, which is the holiest day of the year and without
which Hajj is not counted.

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It was narrated from Aa'isha that the Prophet said: 'There is no day on
which Allaah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafaah. He comes close
and expresses His pride to the angels, saying, 'What do these people want and seek?
Bear witnness O Angels that I have forgiven them'.
[Saheeh atTargheeb, Albani]

Some scholars believe that this ayah refers to the last 10 nights of RamaDaan.
The even and odd of everything in creation is then sworn by. There are male and female
creations of every sort, including humans, animals, and plants.
Is there not, in all of these signs by which Allaah swears, enough for us to believe? If
these signs arent enough, we are given examples of people from the past.
Allaah tells us of the punishment of the people of Ad. Allaah gave them so much
wealth, power and knowledge allowing them to build architectural marvels and beautiful cities;
however, they were arrogant and ungrateful. They were warned by the Prophet Hud ,
who was sent to them. These people were annihilated because they chose to be disbelievers
after repeated warnings. They were a people north of Medina, and they were famous for
having carved palaces into the mountains.
The Quraysh used to travel and pass through the city of Ad and Thamud along their business
routes. Seeing these remnants of these civilizations would amaze them. This was a warning to
52

the Quraysh showing them that although Ad and Thamud were powerful, Allaah
destroyed them so the Quraysh could also be easily destroyed.
Allaah also provides the example of Pharoah, who used stakes to rip people apart by
their limbs. He, too, was destroyed by Allaah . These ayaat highlight a common factor:
they speak of people of the past who were corrupt and became arrogant as they gained power,
thereby leading to their destruction.
Humanity Shall Be Tested Humanity Shall Be Tested Humanity Shall Be Tested Humanity Shall Be Tested
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15. As for man, when his Lord tries Him by giving Him honor and gifts, Then He
says (puffed up): "My Lord has honored me." 16. But when He tries him, by
straitening his means of life, He says: "My Lord has humiliated Me! 17. Nay! but
You treat not the orphans with Kindness and generosity (i.e. You neither treat
them well, nor give them their exact Right of inheritance)! 18. And Urge not on
the feeding of Al-Miskn (the poor)! 19. And you devour inheritance All with
greed, 20. and You love wealth with much love!
This dunya is a test. Allaah gives His slaves tests in the form of bounties as well as
hardships. Wealth and honor are tests from Allaah ; be aware of how you utilize the
blessings of Allaah . When a trial befalls you, realize that this difficulty is a test. The
Prophet was tested with suffering; each of his sons passed away. However, this didnt
cause him to express displeasure towards Allaah , nor to be impatient with the decree of
Allaah . Many people falter in the face of trials and adversity, whereas the believers
grow in imaan. Sometimes moments of hardships in life are the most blessed in gaining
closeness to Allaah ; it is at these times when we truly realize how dependent we are on
Allaah .
53

Allaah is never unfair. When someone has wealth and bounties but he never used them
to feed the orphans or the poor, he has failed this test. When he was tested with difficulty but
he did not show humility towards Allaah nor did he seek Allaahs help, he has
failed this test.
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21. Nay! When the earth is ground to powder 22. and Your Lord comes with the
angels In rows, 23. and Hell will be brought near that Day. On that Day will man
remember, but how will that remembrance (Then) avail him? 24. He will say:
"Alas! Would that I had sent forth (good deeds) for (this) my life!" 25. So on that
day, none will Punish as He will punish. 26. And none will bind as He will bind.
Allaah emphatically uses the word kalla, which is the nay of certainty, to reaffirm the
truth of the beliefs of the believers while simultaneously negating the disbelievers. The earth
will be turned to dust, which shows the insignificant nature of what we have attached our
hearts to- the dunya.
The angels will descend in rows upon rows. We will be resurrected naked and the fear at that
time will be so great that no one will be worrying about his or her nudity.
On the Day of Judgment Allaah will bring the Hell Fire near:
` ` ,`_ ,, `, ` _.
' .' .,`` , `,, ,,-, _`,`, _ _ _ ,,`,`-, : .' .,`` '
[ _,-. , ]
54

Narrated Ibn Mas'ood: The prophet said: "Hell will be brought forth that day by
means of seventy thousand ropes, each of which will be held by seventy thousand
angels."
[Saheeh Muslim]
On this day the people will be in a state of regret, the disbelievers will regret their rejection of
the message and will hope for a second chance. The believers will regret their lack of attention
to Allaah throughout their lives and the evil acts they did. They will fear being purged
for these sins in the Hell Fire.
There never has been before a punishment like what Allaah has decreed for that Day.
There is no punishment that Allaah has sent upon anyone like the punishment that will
happen on that Day. Even the people that helped the Prophet such as his uncle will not
be able to escape the punishment of Allaah , although he spent his life helping the
Prophet he never accepted Islaam, as the Prophet was asked:
- ,, , = _. _ .=' , . , . : .,'
: ..,, :~,- , . _ . ' .,, . _ _.-. ,
_ ,.
[ _,-. _- ]
Narrated Al-Abbas bin 'Abdul Muttalib: That he said to the Prophet "You have not been
of any avail to your uncle (Abu Taalib) (though) by Allaah, he used to protect you and
used to become angry on your behalf." The Prophet said, "He is in a shallow fire, and
had It not been for me, he would have been in the bottom of the (Hell) Fire."
[Bukhari]
The Believing Soul, Beloved to Allaah The Believing Soul, Beloved to Allaah The Believing Soul, Beloved to Allaah The Believing Soul, Beloved to Allaah
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55

27. (It will be said to the pious): "O (you) the one in (complete) rest and
satisfaction!28. Come back to Your Lord, well-pleased (yourself) and well-
pleasing unto him! 29. "Enter you, then, among my honored slaves, "30. And
enter You My Paradise!"
As Allaah tells us how the people will be punished, the surah is concluded with the
mercy of Allaah . Allaah refers to the believers as you tranquil, peaceful souls. This
is a wonderful description. The believers, after being told of the torment in the Hereafter, are
comforted by news of security and closeness to Allaah .

Allaah will allow the believers to enter into Jannah out of His mercy:

,- _,- _ ,, ', ~ = , .-. .,- ,- _,-. ,
,, ., - , , _ - . .', - ., .' -. ., ,_ ', . ,, ,
,, . , - , , ._ , ,, _~,, - ,-' ,, ., , , ., ,
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-
[ ,, ,-, .]

Al-Haakim mentioned the Hadeeth of The Man of the Pomegranate. This man
worshipped Allaah continuously for 500 years. Every day he would eat a pomegranate
then he would get up to pray. One day, this person supplicated to Allaah that, "Oh
Allaah, bring my death while I am in the state of prostration." Allaah accepted this dua
of his. On the day of Judgment, Allaah will tell the angels to take this individual to
Paradise through His mercy. However, this man will insist that he should enter
paradise through the good deeds that he had performed. Then, Allaah will tell the
angels to compare his good deeds with the blessings that were given to him in the
world. It will be seen that 500 years of his worship does not even equal to the gift of eye
sight that was given to him by Allaah. The angels will be asked to take him towards the
56

hell fire. Then the man will plead, "Oh Allaah! Enter me into Paradise only through
Your mercy." At that point, the following discussion will take place between Allaah and
that man. Allaah: Oh my servant, who created you? The worshipper: Oh Allaah, You
have created me. Allaah: Were you created because of the good deeds you have done or
because of My mercy? The worshipper: Because of Your mercy. Allaah: Who granted
you the ability to worship for 500 years? The worshipper: Oh the Almighty! You have
granted me that ability. Allaah: Who placed you on the mountain surrounded by the
ocean? Who caused a stream of sweet water to flow in between the salty water? Who
caused a pomegranate tree to grow for you? Who granted you death while in the state
of prostration? The worshipper: Oh the Sustainer of the Worlds! You have done all of
these. Then Allaah will say, "All these have happened due to My mercy and you too
will enter Paradise only through My Mercy."
[Shifaa Al-Aleel, ibn al-Qayyim]

QURANIC GEMS
A declaration to the virtue of Dhul Hijjas 1st 10 nights, and the last 10 nights of
Ramadan.
History of previously destroyed people.
Command: Learn from these peoples catastrophic mistakes
Warning: if you dont, then beware of Allaahs punishment.
Materialism is an old disease.
Fact: Allaah tests us with both the good and bad.
Command: social virtues, i.e. caring for orphans and feeding the needy are Islaamic
Command: Inheritance must be distributed according to Islaam.
Warning: beware of being a dunya addict.
Fact: the Day of Judgment is absolute.
57

Fact: the Day of return is absolute
Fact: the Day of regret is absolute
Allaah describes some of the events of judgment day
Beware: save yourself from the worst punishment
Command: Allaah calls the believers in the most beautiful way to return to Him.
Fact: If you live as a sincere & obedient servant, Allaah will make you happy.
Glad tidings from the angels of mercy for the believer upon death Jannah.
58
59
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By the forenoon (after); (1) By the night when it darkens (and stands still). (2)
Your Lord (O Muhammad ) has neither forsaken you nor hates you. (3)
And indeed the Hereafter is better for you than the present (life of this world). (4)
And verily, your Lord will give you (all good) so that you shall be wellpleased. (5)
Did He not find you (O Muhammad ) an orphan and gave you a refuge? (6)
And He found you unaware (of the Qur'n, its legal laws, and Prophethood) and
guided you? (7) And He found you poor, and made you rich (selfsufficient with
selfcontentment)? (8) Therefore, treat not the orphan with oppression, (9) And
repulse not the beggar; (10) And proclaim the Grace of your Lord (i.e. the
Prophethood and all other Graces). (11)
60
Touched by an Angel Chapter 7: Surah ad-Duha - 93
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The Forenoon

The Prophet would look forward to receiving divine revelation because of the tranquility
and peace of mind that accompanied it; but it was not the prophet or the angel Jibreal
who would decide when revelation would be received. After a prolonged amount of
time without any message the prophet felt pained even Khadijah thought that
maybe he had done something wrong. The Quraysh took this as a chance to poke fun at the
prophet . Umm Jaleeb wife of Abu Laahab said to Muhammad , it looks like your
devil has left you, then Allaah revealed:

Allaah Allaah Allaah Allaahhas not abandoned the Prophet has not abandoned the Prophet has not abandoned the Prophet has not abandoned the Prophet
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1. By the glorious morning light 2. And by the night when it is still- 3. Thy
Guardian-Lord hath not forsaken thee, nor is He displeased.
Allaah is swearing by things, we see oath after oath and this is done repeatedly in the
Quran when Allaahwishes to draw attention to the magnitude of what is being said. He
is telling him to look for the light at the end of the tunnel. This was to reassure the
prophet that Allaah has not forgotten or turned the prophet away. Truly
everything is fine.
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61
4. And Verily the Hereafter will be better for Thee than the present. 5. And
soon will Thy Guardian-Lord give Thee (That wherewith) Thou shalt be well-
pleased.
Allaah describes the afterlife as khayroon. The root word khayr means best, but Allaah
placed the subject aakhira (the afterlife) before the adjective khayyrun this pattern
makes it superlative, meaning there is no better than the afterlife.
In the next verse, Allaah is promising that in the near future things will be better and the
prophet will be pleased. The word sawfa is used to denote something in the future. Sawfa
is longer term with seen is also future but short term. The scholars of Quranic interpretation
note that the letter Lam before the word sawfa make this a swear (qaasam) by Allaah.
Hence, Allaah is affirming with emphases that the prophet will be pleased in the
future and this will require patience.
How many of us would go through something patiently for a little while to get something of
amazing magnitude? Few possess the patience to withstand such a test, but this is the essence
of Islam, life is not going to be uphill all of the time and that is from Allaahs wisdom.
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6. Did He not find Thee an orphan and give Thee shelter (and care)? 7. And He
found Thee wandering, and He gave Thee guidance. 8. And He found Thee In
need, and made Thee independent.

Sometimes support is needed even if the eeman (faith) exists; hearing serves as a great
reassurance. It is out of Allaahs mercy that he provides this for his servants. An example
62
of this is seen when, Prophet Ibrahim begged Allaah to show him how He
brought the dead back to life. Allaah asked him, Dont you believe? Then Prophet
Ibrahim replied, Yes I do but to make me stronger in faith. Allaah then commanded
Ibrahim to take four birds, slaughter them, then divide each bird into four portions, and
place them on top of four different hills. He was then instructed to call back the birds in
Allaahs name. Ibrahim did as he was told. The birds instantly rejoined with their
original body parts from the different hills and flew back to Ibrahim.
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Remember when Abraham said: "My Lord Show me how You give life to the
dead." Allaah said: "Do you not believe?" Abraham said: "Yes I believe, but to be
stronger in Faith." HE said: "Take four birds, the cause them to incline towards
you (then slaughter them, cut them into pieces) and then put a portion of them
on every hill and call them they will come to you in haste. And know that Allaah
is All Mighty and All Wise.
[AlBaqarah 2:260]

Just as Allaah wished to support Ibrahim, He is reassuring the prophet as well by making
him certain that has been taken care of in the past and that Allaah will not forsake him.
Did Allaah not give refuge to Prophet Muhammad as an orphan? When everyone else
was rejecting him, Allaah softened the hearts of his grandfather and uncle so that they
cared for him. Indeed, Allaah provided this refuge, guidance, and sustenance.
63
Even in matters that go beyond material needs Allaah , has provided for the prophet
. Indeed, it is repulsive and difficult for any individual to be spiritually lost and
emotionally unstable. Allaah reminds the Prophet that it was He who
protected him from the disgrace of shirk; moreover, Allaah made him the leader of
humanity. Dhaalan here does not mean Dhaalal as in someone who is lost in falsehood.
Linguistically, this word normally means lost. Allaah is referring to the time when the
prophet was unaware and would go to a cave to ask Allaah for guidance.
Thereafter, Allaah showed him the light of Islam and made him a means of guidance for
whomsoever Allaah wishes.
Allaah also blessed the prophet with an amazing wife to support him in his other
worldly affairs. Khadijah was a wonderful wife who was kind, generous, and pious. She
literally handed over her business to the Prophet and said this is all yours. This was
earned by him, because she knew him as being As-Sadiq Al-Ameen (the honest and
trustworthy). She also knew that prior to his employment, her caravans never made the kind of
wealth that they made when they were in the care of the Prophet. There is also another
aspect of wealth, this is ghina al-nafs, (the wealth that is internalized in the soul). This is
integrity. It involves being content with whatever little wealth Allaah has given you and
recognizing it as a blessing.
The Prophetwould at times have so little food that he would tie a rock around his belly to
help curb the hunger. Yet, he was still content despite this. Contentment is an invaluable form
of wealth. It is a treasure that is imperishable, never-ending.

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64
9. Therefore, treat not the orphan with harshness, 10. Nor repulse the
petitioner (unheard); 11. But the bounty of the Lord, rehearse and proclaim!
Allaah is reminding the Prophet to be extra kind with the orphans because he was
himself an orphan. So do not be harsh towards the orphan and indeed their care is worthy of
great reward. It was narrated by the Sahl as-Saaidi that the messenger of Allaah said:
= -- ,,,| | . ,= ,,, _ . _==,| -,,.|, _=|
I and the caretaker of the orphan are like this in jannah (two fingers, index/middle,
together, raised).
[AlBukhaari]

When a needy person asks you for something, do not be harsh with them. At the very least, you
should make Duaa for them. You do not know the condition of a person; so do not be cruel or
harsh towards people.

It is permissible to show some of the blessings of Allaah upon us, but we should not be
arrogant and flaunt it. Share in the happiness of others goodness but do not be jealous of each
other. We should be thankful and grateful to Allaah for what we have and we should wish good
for others, while asking for goodness upon ourselves.

QURANIC GEMS QURANIC GEMS QURANIC GEMS QURANIC GEMS
Fact: Allaah declares His absolute love and support for His servant and Messenger
The prestigious status of the final Prophet, Muhammad
Fact: Allaah promises the Prophet that his mission will be successful.
Fact: Allaah promises the Messenger jannahtul firdaws
Fact of life: to live means to suffer hardship.
65
Fact: true belief & obedience to Allaah will suffice you. Understand that to live is
to suffer hardship. To be Muslim is no different so lets not deceive ourselves especially in
dawah. Become Muslim and youll have no problems! We need eeman to help us get
through the hard times. We have nothing if we dont have Allaah.
Command: If you want Allaah to take care of you and yours, then follow the
prophet (saw). Follow the Prophet completely without picking and choosing from
the Sunnah. Dont turn him into a buffet.
Command: social services: caring for the weak i.e. orphans and poor are Islamic. What if
people knew we gave support overseas while our neighbors are starving? Does our
religion teach us this? No this is just our own perversion of justice.
True & sincere gratefulness to Allaah for His blessings is by using the blessings in
a manner that will further earn Allaahs mercy and reward.
Reminders from Allaah of blessings and punishment help live a balanced life.
Allaah loves to see the effects of His blessings upon His servants.

66
67
Touched by an Angel Chapter 8: Surah al-Inshiraah - 94

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The Opening Forth

This surah addresses the Prophet . Allaah uses these ayaat to clarify some things
to the Prophet. Just as surah Duha was sent to reassure the prophet , Allaah
does so as well in the beginning of this surah.

68

, _,= = _

=_== c| _= ,|| 1 =__ c- -= _ ? | =| _
=, 1 =. c| -_ _ + ., .-| _- ., _ 5 _- ., _
.-| ., 6 .= .- ., _ 7 .-_ c`,_ _|, _ 8 _

Have We not opened your breast for you (O Muhammad )? (1) And removed
from you your burden, (2) Which weighed down your back? (3) And have We not
raised high your fame? (4) Verily, along with every hardship is relief, (5) Verily,
along with hardship is relief (i.e. there is one hardship with two reliefs, so one
hardship cannot overcome two reliefs) (6) So when you have finished (your
occupation), devote yourself for Allh's worship. (7) And to your Lord (Alone) turn
(all your) intentions and hopes. (8)

69
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1. Have we not expanded Thee Thy breast? 2. And removed from Thee Thy
burden 3. The which did gall Thy back? 4. And raised high the esteem (in
which) Thou (art held)?
Allaah is telling him, Have we not opened your breast/expanded your chest for you? In
English it may not make much sense, but the usage of this language was common among the
Arabs. The term Nashrah Sadrak - is an expression in Arabic that shows we have given you
peace of mind, tranquility, and calmness in your heart. It refers to having taken away anything
that has constricted your chest or sat in your heart and bothered you.
We here is of Majesty not of plurality. Allaah is only One, but He uses this term
when He speaks formally. This usage in the language was also common among the Arabs. It
was a language of supremacy and way of speech for kings or figures of authority. They would
not speak in the first person. Even in old English this tradition is still preserved. In the writings
of the kings and queens in English in the past they would use We.
Allaah is reminding Prophet Muhammad of the things that He has done for Him.
Not only is there the expanding of the chest but there is actual relief of the burdens and
alleviation from the calamity that was weighing the Prophet down. We can physically feel the
hardships that have mental and emotional roots. The hardships in on our mind and in our heart
take their toll on us physically. Allaah says We are going to cast upon you a heavy word
(Quran). This job is tremendous. However, Allaah has eased for the prophet this
burden and hardship of carrying Islam to the people.
70
In addition, Allaah has raised high the prophets status. Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
wasnt seeking fame but Allaah has raised him to this status. Allaah has given the
prophet such a high rank that we name our children after him. The name Muhammad alone is
extremely common. Ahmad, Mahmoud, and other nicknames of the Prophet are also
popular among the people. Allaah even placed Muhammads name second within
the Shahadah. Nobody else has that! Allah also rewards the believers greatly for sending
peace and blessing upon the prophet .
- _= _- := =- _= = -,- =- =,= . =- -- =- =,= . --_
=- =-_.
Whoever sends upon me one prayer, Allah prays over him ten prayers, and
deducts from his account ten sins, and raises him with it ten levels
[Saheeh Ahmad]

His name is also in the aDhan, which is raised loud when called all over the world. Most people
today would love to be famous, to be remembered and to have a status. They want their name
to be remembered in the halls of fame. The prophet saw was not seeking any of this, but
because of the heavy task he took on with patience and sincerity, Allaah raised his status
in this world and the next and rewarded him with so much more.

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5. So, Verily, with every difficulty, there is relief 6. Verily, with every
difficulty there is relief.

Allaah is telling the Prophet , Certainly, with every hardship there is ease. Inna is
one of the terms in the Arabic language used to verify things and make them absolute and
71
certain. Allaah repeats this ayah, Verily with difficulties there is relief. When the
Prophet received this verse he went to the companions and said Absheerou,
Absheerou. This is to announce the arrival of good news. Allaah uses the word maa
meaning with every hardship there is ease, hence we need to understand that they come
together! Difficulty comes with the ease already attached to it. Hence, the believer should bear
their trials with patience and remember that Allaah does not break his promise. This
verse was repeated twice hence, with one hardship there comes two reliefs; moreover one
hardship cannot overcome two reliefs. If the ease has not come yet, we need to look at our
lives to see if we are doing something wrong to correct it.
If youre going through a hard time the remedy is already there. They have come together
packed and partial, but the believer must have sabr (patience). Ease will not come according to
your terms and your time so it is important to not allow shaytan to deceive us into falling into
despair or into an action that is displeasing to Allaah . With patience, everything will be
okay. Many of us forget there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. Many of us cry out,
When is the relief going to come, it undoubted that Allaah will do His part as He always
keeps His promises but the believers must do theirs.
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7. Therefore, when Thou art free (from Thine immediate task), still labour
hard, 8. And to Thy Lord turn (all) Thy attention.
Allaah then says that even when you have completed your task fansab (then continue to
strive). The scholars of Quranic interpretation note that this refers to standing in prayer. This
standing in prayer also refers to what should be done after completing an act of worship. We
know the extent of the prophet s love for saalah. His happiness and comfort were in
saalah. This is because it was more than a mere series of physical gestures, but something that
he poured his heart into which allowed him to feel its connection with Allaah .
In the last verse Allah commands the believers to turn your intentions and hopes to
Him. Believers should always be striving, they should be motivated, and encouraged to
72
do everything that pleases Allaah . Part of the tarbiyyah (Islamic development) is that we
should always keep ourselves busy and occupied with something beneficial be it saalah, dhikr,
dua, reciting Quran, or fasting. Allah says,
| -,- , ,|,- , \ ,,= | _- = ,| ,, |, = ,, | -|
-,- ., | -| _- _= `,=|
To each is a goal to which Allah turns him; then strive together (as in a race)
toward all that is good. Wheresoever ye are, Allaah will bring you together.
For Allah hath power over all things.
[Baqara:148]
Allaah repeatedly commands that we continue to strive, because the reward is great; and for
every great reward there is great trial. The companions took their time so seriously that when you
hear their stories you almost feel like they could not be human. Some of the scholars valued
the time they spent in prison. They used that time to reflect and produce some of the most
invaluable pieces of Islamic literature. Indeed, it is the scholars that understand best, the value
of time. One scholar had his son recite to him when he went to the bathroom so that none of his time
would be wasted. Time is a precious commodity. There is not one moment that passes that we
can retrieve. We need to plan our time to take part in activities that are pleasing to Allaah
to gain His favor.

Allaah consoles His servant and Prophet Muhammad by expanding his
chest, forgiving him, and exalting his name and mention
o This expanding of the chest is also purification of the heart. His heart was washed
with ZamZam by the Angel Jibreel when he was a child under the care of his wet
nurse. Hence, removing from him the allure of Shaaytan that lies within us all.
Going up in the Miraj, the Prophets heart was again cleaned and purified
and it was filled this time with Mercy and Kindness. We must recognize who the
prophet really is and respect him as Allaah has commanded. Those
with firm belief do not find it hard to love, respect, and defend the Prophet
73

To have a big heart and chest is one of Allaah s great gifts to His servants
granting them strength and forbearance in the path of Allaah
The prestigious status of the final prophet and Messenger Muhammad
Fact each hardship is accompanied by ease, so lighten up
o If there is hardship, ease is already attached with it
o One hardship cannot defeat two eases
o Prophet Muhammad completely gave the message and fulfilled his mission
Command: Islamic tarbiyyah (development, nourishment, and upbringing) necessitates
that you must remain productive, strive for Allaah and dont stop.
Always keep yourself occupied with that which is beneficial and good, the things which
Allaah Loves.

74
75

=-| _,=

=-| 1 .- _| ..,| ., _ ? ,- ,- ,=| |, _
,=|, ,=, `|, ,=, =|=| 1 _

By Al'Asr (the time). (1) Verily, man is in loss, (2) Except those who believe (in
Islmic Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds, and recommend one another to
the truth (i.e. order one another to perform all kinds of good deeds (AlMa'ruf)
which Allh has ordained, and abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds (Al
Munkar) which Allh has forbidden), and recommend one another to patience (for
the sufferings, harms, and injuries which one may encounter in Allh's Cause during
preaching His religion of Islmic Monotheism or Jihd). (3)

76
Touched by an Angel Chapter 9: Surah al-Asr - 103
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The Time
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1. By (the Token of) time (through the ages), 2. Verily man is In loss,

Allaah begins this surah with a verse that mentions one thing Al-Asr. Some of the
scholars of Quranic interpretation say that this refers to the asr prayer. Others say that what it
refers to is time in a more general all encompassing format. Whether Allaah is making
the oath by the saalah or by time they are both tremendous. What is He trying to tell us?
Everything that we do is in the context of time; everything is associated and tied with time. We
are bound by time. Allaah is the only One that is not bound by time. The time of Asr, can
also be used as a reference for us to remember our time.
The word inna is used in this verse to emphasize and affirm the certainty therein that there is
no doubt in what Allaah is about to tell us. He says, verily man is in loss.
Allaah includes all of humanity, everyone, man and woman, old and young. No one is
excluded from being at a loss. Although translated as loss the word Khusr has the greater
meaning of being indefinite. This indefiniteness makes it more comprehensive not specific and
excluding certain entities. Loss here is in reference to a great destruction, one that is inevitable,
and general for everything to come. We know that the Earth and the sky will change to
something different on the Day of Judgment. This verse also necessitates that there is
absolutely something every individual will lose in their life; whether it is income, house, friends,
health, or something else. Ultimately, death comes, and thereafter is Jahannam (hell fire)
waiting for those whom Allaah wishes to punish. This does not refer to Jannah because
there is no destruction in paradise, it is the abode of peace, bliss, and reward for those whom
77
Allaah has mercy upon, but no one should feel at loss for Allaah has given the
recipe for success in the following verse.
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3. Except such As have Faith, and do righteous deeds, and (join together) In the
mutual teaching of truth, and of patience and constancy.

The third and final verse is telling you how to save yourself. Allaah gives us four things
that will inevitably save us from this impending and promised doom. Those who are excluded
from this promise of doom, have secured four things mentioned in this verse. If we have not
attained these things then we should work before the death over takes us or we no longer have
the ability to acquire them. The first two of these entities are personal and they refer to the
believer at an individual level. The next two deal with things at a societal level.
1. To have correct belief because this is the core of everything. La ilaha ilallah. If the core
belief is correct and sincere then it will produce fruits. There can be no forms of shirk,
kufr, or anything else that goes against the tawhid (the oneness) of Allaah. The
affirmation of Allaahs Oneness must be manifested not only in actions, but in our
thoughts, and dealings.

2. Do righteous good deeds. Having sincere and correct belief necessitates actions that are
in accordance to the commands of Allaah . If you want to do something good for
yourself, strive to be close to Allaah. Show Allaah that you want to take
that extra step and go the extra mile. If you saturate your time with the sincere worship
of Allaah you will not have much time to sin and your enemy shaytan will become
week and unable to sway you. Idle or free time is one of the things that cause us to sin.
This is especially true for youth who are healthy and have money.

3. Recommend one another to the truth. Dont keep the knowledge of Allaah and
Islam to yourself. We need to regularly remind each other to work and establish the
truth within ourselves and our communities. This can be carried out in many ways
78
whether by teaching it, helping facilitate the distribution of that knowledge, or
motivating each other to attain and strengthen it.

4. Recommend one another to patience.
Patience is a huge cornerstone in Islam. We need to work on patience with ourselves
and to have patience with each other. According to Ibn AlQayyim there are three forms
of sabr. The first involves being patient in worshipping and obeying Allaah. The
second is to have patience in abstaining from sin and disobedience of Allaah.
Patience is also required when tested by Allaahs decrees. It is indeed with
patience that Allah raises peoples levels.

After firmly establishing these things and maintaining them we will be amongst the people who
are excluded from the inevitable doom that is promised for all of humanity.
(and there is no might or power except from Allaah .


Miraculous surah: contains the ingredients for humanitys success and salvation from
the impending doom in just three verses. What is salvation? That you are saved from
Hell and enter Paradise. Thats what it means to be saved.
Warning: clear loss and destruction await the disbeliever.
Emergency: the only safety is correct belief and to live righteously.

Commandment: The Muslims must mutually cooperate and support each other on truth
and patience.

79
80
Touched by an Angel Chapter 10: Surah al-Kawthar - 108

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A River in Paradise

Surah Al-Kawthar is a conversation between Allaah and Prophet Muhammad ,
which is going back and forth from Surah ad-Duha. After his son Qasim died, the kuffar of
Quraysh were heartless. They were happy that Qasim died and they used this event as a tool to
harm the Prophet even more. They taunted the Messenger of Allah saying, Your
son died, and now you have nothing. You have no legacy. It ends with you, because you have no
sons to inherit your cause after you. If your God was really all that you claim He would have
spared your child. He wouldnt have done this to you.

Even with all this Rasulallah stayed firm, hid his anger, and did not fight back. He did not
even allow Hamza to fight them. He only did what would be pleasing to Allaah . Because
of this, Allaah rewarded the Prophet for his patience with the bushra of receiving
Al-Kawthar as a gift from the Allmighty and warned the disbelievers against harming the one
most beloved to him.

81

,| _,=

,| =,=-| , 1 c`,| = _ ? c= ., _
,|| , 1 _

Verily, We have granted you (O Muhammad ) AlKauthar (a river in Paradise);
(1) Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and sacrifice (to Him only) (2) For he who
hates you (O Muhammad (Peace be upon him)), he will be cut off (from every
posterity good thing in this world and in the Hereafter). (3)

82

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A River in Paradise

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1.Verily, We have granted you Al-Kawthar. 2.Therefore turn in prayer to
your Lord and sacrifice. 3. For he who hates you, he will be cut off.

Allaah starts this beautiful surah with Inna (with certainty!), Verily Al-Kawthar is given to
Muhammad as a gift. Allaah is addressing the Prophet fortifying his heart and
soul, so that he is able to continue on giving the message despite all the hardships and
obstacles he was facing.

What is Al-Kawthar? Imam Al-Qurtubi provided us with 15 tafaseers of what Al-Kawthar could
be. Some of which are Islam, support of the Sahaabah, a river in Jannah, prophethood, the
Quraan etc. There are also specific and general meanings of what Al-Kawthar is.

Specific
Al-Kawthar is a river that Allaah has promised the prophet in Jannah. The
Ahadeeth that follow give specific descriptions of Al-Kawthar.
` '
,`_ `,, ,, `, ` _. _' ,`,~' `,, `,, . `` `'_ __ `, .
,`_ , :-`.' ` `.,`' ', ._,`
,,-`, `-`, ,`,
. `,-`, :`,, . ,`, `,=` ' ` : ,` `,`,'
83

`, `,`, .,`_`' `,`,- `, .-, `, `,_ ,, `,`, ``, .,`' `,`_, `
, `,, `' `, `, ``,- ,` ._ ..` ,`-' ` ``, . `_`-`, `,`,` ``
,' ,, .`' ` `` `._ `, .`-' _` :`
[, _,-.|
"While we were with the Messenger of Allaah in the Masjid, he dozed off into a
slumber. Then he lifted his head smiling. We said, O Messenger of Allaah! What
has caused you to laugh He said, (Verily, a Surah was just revealed to me.) Then he
recited,
(Verily, We have granted you Al-Kawthar. Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and
sacrifice. For he who hates you, he will be cut off.)
Then he said, (Do you all know what is Al-Kawthar) We said, Allaah and His
Messenger know best. He said, (Verily, it is a river that my Lord, the Mighty and
Majestic, has promised me and it has abundant goodness. It is a pond where my
Ummah will be brought to on the Day of Judgement. Its containers are as numerous
as the stars in the sky. Then a servant of Allaah from among them will be (prevented
from it) and I will say: "O Lord! Verily, he is from my Ummah (followers).'' Then He
(Allaah) will say: "Verily, you do not know what he introduced (or innovated) after
you.)''
[Muslim]

` ,` `, `
,`_ ,, `, ` _. `_' _ `,`-, . ` `- `- `,`, `,`,
' ``,, :` ` `.,~' ``,`,` .,,, _ ` `,`,', ` _`-
[, ]
Abdullah bin Umar narrated, The Messenger of Allaah said: al-Kawthar is a river in
Paradise, its banks are of gold and its bed is of pearls and rubies, its earth is more
aromatic than musk, and its water is sweeter than honey and more pellucid than ice.
[Tirmidhi]
84

, ` `` ` ' ,, `, ` _.
, _ ,, `.`,,. .,`, `,- `- ,`,, ' , `- `.- `:` , .. , ,`-
`. .`,' ,,`- , -, `, = `=`' `,`,
[~' ]
Imam Ahmad recorded from Anas that the Messenger of Allaah said: (I entered
Paradise and I came to a river whose banks had tents made of pearls. So I thrust my
hand into its flowing water and found that it was the strongest (smell) of musk. So I
asked, "O Jibril! What is this'' He replied, "This is Al-Kawthar which Allaah, the
Mighty and Majestic has given you.'') Al-Bukhari recorded this in his Sahih, and so
did Muslim, on the authority of Anas bin Malik. In their version Anas said, "When
the Prophet was taken up to the heaven, he said:
`. `,-` ,`, `. `- ,`, _ `.`,' ,,`- , ,`,
(I came to a river whose banks had domes of hollowed pearl. I said: "O Jibreel! What
is this'' He replied: "This is Al-Kawthar.'')
[Al-Bukhari]

`_.`' : `, '
,`_ ' `-_ .' ,, `, ` _. ,`_ `,`, ,, `, ` _.
_ ,=`' `- `,`, ,` ,`' `_,`,~ , . _`-', . .,, '' ,`, .`,
_`,`- `' .=- ``, `,` ,`_ ,`_ , ,` ` _.
`, ,, ,` , ,` `,`' ,
[~' ]
Ahmad recorded from Anas that a man said:
"O Messenger of Allaah! What is Al-Kawthar'' He replied, (It is a river in Paradise
which my Lord has given me. It is whiter than milk and sweeter than honey. There
85

are birds in it whose necks are (long) like carrots.) Ùmar said, "O Messenger of
Allaah! Verily, they (the birds) will be beautiful.'' The Prophet replied, (The one who
eats them (i.e., the people of Paradise) will be more beautiful than them, O Ùmar.)

General:
` ,`,`- `, , ` ` `, `` ` ._
` `, ` `=`' `_ `,`,- `,`, . ,`, ,`,' `. , `' .,```,, ' . `,, `
`- `, ``, ` `=`' ,`,- ` `- `,,`
[_- _,-.]
Al-Bukhari recorded from Saìd bin Jubayr that Ibn Àbbas said, "Al-Kawthar is the
abundant goodness that Allaah gave to him (the Prophet).'' Abu Bishr said, "I said to
Saìd bin Jubayr, Verily, people are claiming that it is a river in Paradise.''' Saìd
replied, `The river which is in Paradise is part of the goodness which Allaah gave
him.'''
[Al-Bukhari]

This explanation includes the river and other things as well. Because the word Al-Kawthar
comes from the word (Katharah) or abundance. So, linguistically, Al-Kawthar, means an
abundance of goodness. From this goodness is the river in Paradise.
Then Allaah says:
c`,| =
2. Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and sacrifice.
What we understand from this ayaah is that Allaah has given the prophet So
many miracles and all that is good in this life and the Hereafter, therefore obey Allaah s
command. What are the commands? Allaah tells us to perform our obligatory and
optional prayers, and to sacrifice (of animals) solely and sincerely for your Lord. Worship Him
alone and do not associate any partner with him. And while you are sacrificing say His Name
alone, without ascribing any partner to Him. The Fa in (.) is for taqeeb, to signify that what
is commanded to be done is to be done immediately.
86

Allaah is commanding the Prophet ; because He has given him Al-kawthar, pray to
your Rabb. What is the correlation between the blessing and prayer? Gratitude. It is not merely
lip service, it is action as well. But true gratefulness and gratitude to Allaah is shown through
obedience to Allaah . Allaah is giving us two ways to be grateful: salaah and
sacrifice. Salaah at its origin also means Duaaa. The nahr is specifically for the camel, the
dhabiha is for sheep, goats, etc. Slaughtering camels requires a lot of work, they are very tough,
stubborn, and when theyre agitated they act up. The scholars also say this refers to salaahtul-
eid and youm el-nahr. Ibadah has to be for Allaah and Allaah alone. (Some scholars said
this means to pray with your hands to your neck and throat. Wa Allaahu Alam.)

Allaah favored the prophet with four things that no one else was favored with:

1. Allaah has given him victory by striking fear into the hearts of his enemies

2. The earth as a whole was made pure for worship and Salaah for him and his ummah.

3. He has been given the role of intercession. And he wasnt only given one type of
shafaah, but several:
a. The Sahaabah were able to ask the Prophet while he was alive to
intercede and make Duaa for them. i.e. Story of Ukaashah.
b. The gate of Jannah will be open only for prophet Muhammad .
Because of the status of Rasulallah (saw) we are the last of Ummahs, but will be
the first to enter in (Nahnoul Akhiroun Al-Awwaloon).
c. He will request from Allaah to start the Day of Judgment.
People will run to Adam, Nuh, Musa, Ibrahim, Isa and all other prophets but
Prophet Muhammad ultimately will be the one with the ability to go to
Allah asking him to start the Day of Judgment.
d. An intercession to help save the sinning Muslims, who will be punished in Hell.

4. Allaah has made spoils of war halaal for him.

In the last Ayaah, Allaah says:

,|| , c= .,
3. For he who hates you (O Muhammad) he will be cut off (from every good thing in
this world and in the hereafter)

87

In the beginning of this Ayaah, again, another Affirmation is given that there is no doubt!
They want to say that you (O Muhammad) are severed in your progeny, and that you have no
sons, however its not true. It is a sign from Allaah that the one who angers and hates
the Prophet will be cut off from all good in this world and the next. Verily, the truest and
best form of progeny is the teachings you leave behind. So, when the sons of the Messenger of
Allaah died they said, Muhammad has been cut off. So they thought in their
ignorance that if his sons died, his remembrance would be cut off. To the contrary, Allaah
preserved his remembrance for the entire world to see, and he obligated all the servants
to follow the prophets teachings. This will continue for all of time until the Day of Gathering
and the coming of the Hereafter. May the blessings of Allaah and His peace be upon him
forever until the Day of Judgment.

It is not about the physical people but about what they left behind. During the battle of Uhud
there was a rumor spreading that the prophet died. When Quraysh exclaimed, We killed
the Prophet! one of the Sahaabah sat down and said what are we going to do? Another
Sahaabi came up to him and said, What are you going to do? If he died then you go and fight
and die as he did!

When the prophet died, it was the darkest day for the Sahaabah. Some of the Sahaabah lost
their sanity. Umar threatened to kill anyone who said he was dead. Abu Bakr brought
back the sanity by what he said. Abu Bakr went to Aisha s house. Upon seeing
the prophet he said, I would sacrifice my mother and father for you, you are just as beautiful
dead as you are alive. He kissed him on the forehead, then he went out and said, If there are
any of you who are following Muhammad then know he is dead, but if it is Allaah
you are worshipping then know that He lives and does not die.
. , = ._
' ,, ,`,' `` ` ._ ` ` , _ _`', `, `, -` - , _`- `,
_ - _`- ` ,` ` ._ ,`, `` ,, `, ` _. _'-` ,`,
`,`, ,- `, ,`-, ` . `.' `, `` `, _, `_`-, ` , .`' ,',
,`` ` :`, `. `, `' `,`, :`, `
88

,`,' ,`-' ` ``, `,` ` ._ .' ,, ,' `` ` ._ _,- `,`,
`` ` ._ ` `,`, `, _,' ``- _,' ``- ,, ,`,' `` ` ._
,,, `` `, ,` ```, `,` . ` ``, `' `-` ,, `, ` _.
., `-` ,, `, ` _. `.,`, - ., ```, . `, . ` _ `
`., , `,.`' _ `,`` `,' .` `,,' `', ` `.- ` ,`_ . ``-` ,
,,.` ` ,`-,, `, `,`., `, _
, _`- ,,`' .' .,``, ,`,, `, ` .' ,, ,`,' `` ` ._ ``
`,, `_``, ``
[_- _,-.]
À'isha said that Abu Bakr came riding his horse from his dwelling in As-Sunh. He
dismounted, entered the Masjid and did not speak to anyone until he came to her [in
her room] and went directly to the Prophet, who was covered with a marked blanket.
Abu Bakr uncovered his face, knelt down and kissed him, then started weeping and
proclaimed, "My father and my mother be sacrificed for you! Allaah will not combine
two deaths on you. You have died the death, which was written for you.'' Ibn Àbbas
narrated that Abu Bakr then came out, while Ùmar was addressing the people, and
Abu Bakr told him to sit down but Ùmar refused, and the people attended to Abu
Bakr and left Ùmar. Abu Bakr said, "To proceed; whoever among you worshipped
Muhammad, then Muhammad is dead, but whoever worshipped Allaah, Allaah is
alive and will never die. Allaah said,
Muhammad is no more than a Messenger and indeed (many) Messengers have
passed away before him. If he dies or is killed, will you then turn back on your heels
And he who turns back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allaah; and
Allaah will reward the grateful.''
[Al Imran 3:144]

The narrator added, "By Allaah, it was as if the people never knew that Allaah had
revealed this verse before until Abu Bakr recited it, and then whoever heard it,
started reciting it.'' Saìd bin Al-Musayyib said that Ùmar said, "By Allaah! When I
heard Abu Bakr recite this Ayaah, my feet could not hold me, and I fell to the
ground''
[Al-Bukhari]
89

QUR QUR QUR QURANIC GEMS: ANIC GEMS: ANIC GEMS: ANIC GEMS:

Allaah consoles his servant and messenger
This surah helped the Prophet deal with the hardships of the people.
Fact: Al-Kawthar is real
Commandment: worship is for Allaah alone, i.e. Salaah and nahr
o The Prophet used to seek refuge from ever knowingly committing shirk. He also used
to seek forgiveness for any shirk he may have committed unknowingly.
Fact: Any and all who hate and abuse the prophet are cursed
Command: love Muhammad
Beware: of ever feeling anything against him.
Discovery: The Quraan has inherently built within it the melodious quality that is a miracle
within itself. The Arabic is special. The better your tajweed rules are, even if you dont have
a beautiful voice, it beautifies the Quraan in a way that is just amazing. Even if we bring the
best of singers in English, it would never compare to the Arabic.
Allaah erases the good deeds of those who dislike what Allaah has decreed of
the religion (47:8-9). This is why we must love prayer, love hijab, and love Islam in all its
aspects.

90
91
Touched by an Angel Chapter 11: Surah at-Takathur - 102

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The Piling Up

This surah discusses the mutual rivalry that exists in this dunya and the human preoccupation
with amassing wealth and material goods. Thus many are diverted from the truth and have no
fear of accountability. So, Allah warns the people about the Day of Judgement and the
fire of Hell.
92

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| ,,|| 1 ,| ,__ _- _ ? .,- =,= _ 1 _
.,- =,= , + _,| ,- .,- ,| _ 5 | _ .
,,| 6 _,| ,- ,| , _ 7 =-,, ||.| , _
,,-| - 8 _

The mutual rivalry (for piling up of worldly things) diverts you, (1) Until you visit
the graves (i.e. till you die). (2) Nay! You shall come to know! (3) Again, Nay! You
shall come to know! (4) Nay! If you knew with a sure knowledge (the end result of
piling up, you would not have been occupied yourselves in worldly things) (5)
Verily, You shall see the blazing Fire (Hell)! (6) And again, you shall see it with
certainty of sight! (7)

93

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The Piling Up

Humans Distracted from the Truth Humans Distracted from the Truth Humans Distracted from the Truth Humans Distracted from the Truth
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1. The mutual increase diverts you 2. Until you visit the graves

In the first two ayaat of this surah, Allaah talks about the result of loving the world and
heedlessness of the hereafter. Allaah says that all are preoccupied by love of the world,
its delights and its adornments, and this distracts you from seeking the hereafter and desiring
it. This diverts you until death comes to you and you visit the grave, thus becoming its
inhabitant.
` `,=` ` ,,'
` .`,' `` _. ` `, ,, ,`, ',, `,,' ` ,` ,, ``,
, : , `, ` : .' .`,' `,' .` .`,`,' `,' .`. .`,.`'
[ _,-. , ]
Narrated Mutarrif from his father who said, "I came to the Messenger of Allaah while
he was reciting The mutual increase diverts you, He (saw) said: The Son of Adam
says, "My wealth, my wealth.'' But do you get anything (of benefit) from your wealth
except for that which you ate and you finished it, or that which you clothed yourself
with and you wore it out, or that which you gave as charity and you have spent it)''
[Muslim]
94

` ,' ,`,,` .' ,`_ _. ` `, ,,
,, `` ` ` ` . ' _' `,' _`,' `,' _=`' _ ,
, : ,`, `. `_, `
[ _,-. , |
Narrated Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allaah said: The servant says "My
wealth, my wealth.'' Yet he only gets three (benefits) from his wealth: that which he
eats and finishes, that which he eats and finishes, that which he wears until it is worn
out, or that which he gives in charity and it is spent. Everything else other than that
will go away and leave him for the people.
[Muslim]
' `, : ,`_ _. ` `, ,,
`_`, .`, `_-`,, . _`,, ` `-, ```, ``' `, `, `_-`,, ``' `, _`,, `
[ _,-. _- ]
Narrated Anas bin Maalik that the Messenger of Allaah said: Three things follow the
deceased person, and two of them return while one remain behind with him. The
things which follow him are his family, his wealth and his deeds. His family and his
wealth return while his deeds remain.
[AlBukhari]

Allaah is drawing our attention to the worldly disease, which is so contagious that He
wants to protect us from it. That plague, illness, disease is the insatiable appetite for the dunya,
which causes you to become heedless and diverts you away from the purpose of creation.
SubhanAllaah we are such competitive individuals. We always want to outdo others, especially
when it comes to matters of the dunya, and it knows no ends. Your desire for more has caused
you to become heedless and it has distracted you from your main purpose in life, which is to
worship your creator. We want bigger and better cars than other people, better houses, higher
salaries, etc. People will compete in these things for their entire life. In reality, theres almost
95

no end to this rivalry. Seeking this rivalry to acquire/gain the dunya to outdo others is one of
the signs of the hour.

This isnt just for in reference to the Arabs, as this is happening all over the world. When we
look at our ancestors that came to this country, they say: We came so we can make enough
money to build our house back home then were going to go back home. But when so and so
built a house that had 2 floors in it, he isnt better than me Im going to do such and such, then
the next person make a house with 4 floors, and they build the house and work night and day,
maybe even open liquor stores, but they never go back home because they are too busy
making money. The competition with the dog-eat-dog world has no end to it if you want to
outdo others.

But there is an end to it; the end is in your graves. In the beginning stages of Islam, the Prophet
prevented people from going to the graves for he feared that they may worship the
graves or commit shirk. However, once the Sahaabah were purged of this Jahiliyyah, they were
allowed to go visit the graves to see what awaits them when it is their time. You are going to be
separated from your parents, children, spouse, friends, and house etc. The body is going to
decompose, maggots, worms, insects. This is what should happen.

The level of Ghaflah that the Muslims have reached today is almost astonishing in a bad way.
The Prophet wanted us to go visit the graves so that we could be reminded of the
aakhira and wake up from our slumber. Unfortunately, the sad part today is that some people
go to the cemetery and they; chat, talk, and giggle, etc. They do not even heed the sobering
reality that they will be in their graves.

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3. Nay! You shall come to know! 4. Again nay! You shall come to know! 5. Nay!
If you knew with a sure knowledge 6. Verily, you shall see the blazing Fire! 7.
And again, you shall see it with certainty of sight!

Kalla is an extremely powerful form of negation in Arabic which means Nay, absolutely not.
Thumma indicates things occuring in a sequence, steps, or in order. Kalla comes again followed
by You will (in the future) know the certain reality of things Allaah is warning us with
the threat of seeing the hellfire. Al-Hasan Al-Basree said about these ayaat, "This is a threat
96

after a threat". Allaah repeats the same thing twice? Some say, Yes-to show the
emphasis of how serious things are. Some say, No this here is not a simple repetition. One is
used as a proof for the life of the barzakh (the punishment vs. the bliss thats in the grave), and
then the second is when you will absolutely know again in the hereafter after you are
resurrected standing before Allaah who is going to judge you. The prophet would
have wanted the Sahaabah to hear the punishment of the graves, but he feared that they
would stop burying their dead. Everything can hear this punishment of the grave, except for
mankind and jinn.

Then Allaah tells us if you knew with true knowledge, you would not be diverted by
rivalry for wealth away from seeking the abode of the Hereafter until you reach the graves.' In
The description of Jahannam in verse 6 is the explanation of the previous threats stating that
You shall come to Know. It is a Fire, which if it exhaled one breath, every angel who is near (to
Allaah and every Prophet who was sent would all fall down on their knees due to fear,
awe, and the sight of its horrors.

We will see it absolutely for what it truly is. There is none of us except that he has to cross it
(Jahannam). Everyone will see Jahannam but not everyone will be punished by it. We hope and
pray that Allaah protects us from the punishment in the grave.

The Prophet mentioned about the Siraat that runs over hell. As-Siraat linguistically
means a Clear, straight path. Technically: It is the bridge placed over the Hellfire, over which the
Muslims will pass to enter Jannah. The siraat is sharper than a sword.

` _ _. = , ,,
... , ,`,- `,`- '' ` ,`` '-', ` .`,` `, `., `:-, ...
[ ~' ]
Narrated Ayesha that RasulAllaah said, Hellfire has a bridge that is thinner
than hair and sharper than a sword with hooks and thorns on it
[Ahmad]

In other narrations, when a fox runs it has that jitteriness to it jumping to the left and right, meaning the
bridge will not even stay still for us; it will be moving.

How are we going to cross that bridge? Its not about your balance, strength, and so on, its not
about anything except your deeds and your sincerity. How long is it going to be? The length of
the bridge is unknown. Some are going to cross it faster than a blink of an eye. Imagine that this
will happen when 70,000 chains and 70,000 angels for each chain will be dragging it. Jahannam
97

is huge. It could be light years in distance; it could be miles, we do not know. Others will cross
at different speeds.

` `
,`_ _. ` `, ,, _`,`, ,`,-, `,, , .,`` .' _ _ _
.,`` .' : ,,',`-,
[ _,-. , ]
Narrated Ibn Mas'ood: The prophet said: "Hell will be brought forth that day
by means of seventy thousand ropes, each of which will be held by seventy thousand
angels."
[Muslim]

_' , _- ._ = _ _. = , ,,
... ',`, .,``,` `,= `, `,, _,`,, ,`,=, ,,-', `,- .`,, _
`,` `,``-, `,` `,`, _ ,`,- _`- - .,``,` ` _` ...
[ _,-. , ]
Narrated Abu Said Al Khudri that RasulAllaah said, The believers would
then pass over within the twinkling of an eye, like lightning, like wind, like a bird,
like the finest horses and camels. Some will escape and be safe, some will be
lacerated and let go, and some will be pushed into the fire of Hell till the believers
will find rescue from the Fire.
[Muslim]

To cross the siraat, people will be given light in accordance to their deeds. Some will be the size
of mountains, some, palm trees and some, less than that. Some peoples light will turn on and
off. It will be utter darkness because the fire which is below them will be pitch black that is
the fire of hell. The only thing that will save us on that day is our deeds that we do here. How
fast one crosses Siraat depends on his good deeds in this world. Allaah mentions in the
Quraan that everyone will go over the hell fire but only the muttaqeen will pass and go out. Ibn
Abbas used to cry about this Ayaah because he said Allaah promised the first part and
not the second.

98

_' ,,, .' _
... .,' `,' ` `_,`-, ` `', `', , `,, `,, `-' `', `, `', `,, `,`,
`, , ...
[ _,-. _- ]
Narrated Abu Hurairah, Prophet Muhammad said, I (Muhammad) shall be
the first amongst the Apostles to cross it with my followers. Nobody except the
Apostles will then be able to speak and they will be saying then, 'O Allaah! Save us.
O Allaah Save us.'
[alBukhari]

The hellfire will be covered in fog. It will immediately suck inside it those who are arrogant as
well as those who read the Quraan, donated and fought for other than Allaah they
will be taken from the land of resurrection and punished immediately for they committed the
minor shirk of Riyaa (Showing off). Allaah will be unseen again after this. Allaah
will then call out: Anyone who worshipped anything, they will follow it. Pictures will appear of
all the things that people worshipped: the cross, Jesus, the sun, the moon, everything and
anything. They will be leaving, moving in groups, following all their things and suddenly those
things will disappear and the people will find in front of them the 7 gates of Hellfire open wide,
and the angels will grab the people and throw them inside the Hellfire with their heads first
(upside down). This day, the wrong doer would be separated from the rest of humanity.

Accountability for Every Indulgence Accountability for Every Indulgence Accountability for Every Indulgence Accountability for Every Indulgence

O =F9 > 9#

8. Then, on that day, You shall be asked about the delight (you indulged in, In
This world)!

On that Day you will be questioned concerning your gratitude towards the favors that Allaah
blessed you with, such as health, safety, sustenance and other things. You will be asked
did you return His favors by being thankful to Him and worshipping Him.'
99

` ,' ,`,,`
_,- ,`_ _. ` `, ,, . `,, `,' `, , ,` ,', ,, ,`,
-,`-' ` ,`,`, ` `_,`- , ,`_ ', , ,, -,`-'
-,`-' ,`, ,` ` _' `-_ ` _.`' , ,` `, `,, ` ``'_ '`,
`. -`, `', , ,`_ _. ` `, ,, `,' . `. . `.``,
` . .- '_.`' ,= _ ,`_ _. ` `, ,, `,-., `, ``-
`-' `,, ,' ,`.' ` =` `,`.- , , `,``, `,`, `.~`_, , `
-', ,`` ` ,`_ _. ` `, ,, `, .,-, _, `,`, ,' `
` `, : ,`,,, ` .' ,` ,`,_, ,`_ _. ` `, ,, ,'
,, ,`, , ,, `'`` ` ,,` `,, , `,-,`-' ` `,,`,`, `_,`- `, `,
,`-`, _`- `,,.' `,,`
[ _,-. , ]
Narrated Abu Hurayrah,
"Once while Abu Bakr and Ùmar were sitting, the Prophet came to them and said:
what has caused you two to sit here? They replied, `By He Who has sent you with the
truth, nothing has brought us out of our houses except hunger.' The Prophet said: By
He Who has sent me with the truth nothing has brought me out other than this. So
they went until they came to the house of a man from the Ansar, and the woman of
the house received them. The Prophet said to her, Where is so-and-so? She replied,
`He went to fetch some drinking water for us.' So the man came carrying his bucket
and he said, `Welcome. Nothing has visited the servants (of Allaah) better than a
Prophet who has visited me today.' Then he hung his bucket near a palm tree, and
climbed it and returned to them with a cluster of dates. So the Prophet said: Why
didn't you pick (some of them). The man replied, Ì wanted you to choose with your
own eyes.' Then he took a blade (to slaughter a sheep) and the Prophet said: Do not
slaughter one that gives milk. So he slaughtered a sheep for them that day and they
all ate. Then the Prophet said: You will be asked about this on the Day of Judgment.
Hunger caused you to come out of your homes and you did not return until you had
eaten this meal. So this is from the delights)''
[Muslim]
100

Even though they were starving and were blessed with food, they will be asked about it. We
cannot compare ourselves with their righteousness and the Prophet told them you will
be asked about this (cool water). This doesnt, however, mean that you shouldnt have it, but if
you have it give it its due haqq. We should always be grateful to Allaah .

Is it better to be poor and strive or have wealth and be grateful? The upper hand is better than
the lower hand, the giving hand is better than the receiving hand. Wealth is blessed when its in
the hands of the righteous. How much good did the wealth of Abu Bakr and Uthman achieve
and accomplish for the Ummah? But understand its not always going to be like that, when you
do have it are you always going to be the giving person you need to be, or when you dont have
it are you going to be the patient person you need to be?

Everyones feet will be placed like stone and will not move until they answer these four
questions:
1. Wealth: How you earned it and what you did with it.
2. Time: How did you use it? How did you waste it?
3. Youth: how did you use it? How did you waste it?
4. Knowledge: What did you do with it?

How many of you review before a test? The Prophet is helping us out here. Your money,
your wealth, how you earned it, and what you did with it. Everything Allaah had given
you, how did you use it? how did you waste it? And with the knowledge that Allaah had
taught you and blessed you with, what did you do with it? How did you use it?

QURA QURA QURA QURANIC GEMS: NIC GEMS: NIC GEMS: NIC GEMS:

Beware: materialism is addicting.
o Do not be fooled into thinking that you can handle the fitnah of wealth
Fact: wealth is meant to be used for good and not to be hoarded.
o Your wealth will be used either for you or against you.
o Imagine: Allaah has given you a gift and you use it against Allaah
!
101

o That which we leave behind is ultimately not ours, if we dont use the gifts
Allaah has given us for him, then shaytaan will make sure we use
it for other causes.
o The Prophet said, Is his wealth anything more than what he has
given or used in charity? Or that which he has somehow benefitted from?
o That which you leave behind is not yours. We should still leave for our
kids, but we need to put things in a proper perspective.
Fact: some will die as addicts.
o Some have sealed their fates because they do not want to break their
addiction.
Fact: Reward and punishment in the grave is real.
Fact: belief in the resurrection, judgment, reward and punishment is an absolute.
Command: change or else
Fact: blessings carry responsibility; appreciation is further rewarded while
ungratefulness is punished.
Command: be prepared for questioning. There is no good answer if we dont obey Allaah
.
Do not in anyway be discontent when Allaah takes away a gift. You better have a
very good and convincing answer if you feel self-sufficient
102
103
Touched by an Angel Chapter 12: Surah al-Maaoon - 107

ft{
t@`tt

Small Kindnesses

This Surah was revealed in Madina, where along with the Muslims, there was a faction of
hypocrites, or those who claimed to be Muslim but do not prepare for their akhira. In this
surah Allah exposes the hypocrites by describing the characteristics which belied their
professed belief. They do not support the orphans, give to the needy, and are heedless with
their prayers. Their deeds and their actions are for the people and not for their creator.

104

.,-' _,=

,=|, ==, =| .,|_| 1 ,,,| g=, =| c|= _ ? | _
_.| ;-| _- , 1 _=| ,, _ + - , ,=| _
= .,= ,, 5 ., , ,=| _ 6 .,-| .,-, _ 7 _

Have you seen him who denies the Recompense? (1) That is he who repulses the
orphan (harshly), (2) And urges not on the feeding of AlMiskn (the poor), (3) So
woe unto those performers of Salt (prayers) (hypocrites), (4) Those who delay their
Salt (prayer from their stated fixed times), (5) Those who do good deeds only to be
seen (of men), (6) And prevent AlM'n (small kindnesses like salt, sugar, water). (7)

105

ft{ t@`tt
Small Kindnesses

The Disbeliever and the Hypocrite and their Relationship with their The Disbeliever and the Hypocrite and their Relationship with their The Disbeliever and the Hypocrite and their Relationship with their The Disbeliever and the Hypocrite and their Relationship with their
Brethren Brethren Brethren Brethren

M MM M & && & % %% % ! !! ! # ## # > >> > j jj j 3 33 3 e ee e$ $$ $! !! ! $ $$ $ / // /
1. Have you seen him who denies Ad-Din?

Allaah is calling our attention to the human psychology and the human ramifications
that are intertwined with it. Allaah is saying look and see at this person He is describing.
Allaah is asking, havent you seen? Arent you aware? Dont you know of a person who
rejected, dont know, or denied the Deen? Here the word Deen means the Hereafter, the Final
Reward.

What is this Deen?

Religion of Islam.
Youm al-Deen, the Day of Judgment & the hereafter.
It also carries a third meaning of whats root is, `,. ,dayn), debt. Our debt to Allaah
It can carry all of these meanings; its not necessarily restricted to one meaning.

9 99 9 % %% % ! !! ! # ## # K KK K 9 99 9 # ## # t tt t ? ?? ? $ $$ $ 3 33 3 9 99 9 # ## #

2. That is he who repulses the orphan 3. And urges not the feeding of Al-Miskin

Then Allaah gives us the characteristics of these people. The first characteristic: The
tender issues of those that are so weak, so fragile, so easily exploited, are the orphan. They
repulse the orphan, meaning, they oppress the orphan and do not give him his just due. They
106

do not feed him, nor are they kind to him. There are people who are so cruel that they cannot
even put themselves in the shoes of that young child; instead of showing them kindness they
repulse them. The prophet showed love and affection for these orphans. He used to rub
their heads, and would kiss them. Of course, these days we have to be careful how we do things
as its very sensitive due to cultural differences so we have to be wise in how we apply the
Sunnah. We also know how some evil priests show their affection for orphans and children! We
need to be smart in how we help the orphans, care for them, and defend them.

Another characteristic is that they do not encourage feeding the poor. Not only do they not
have a direct role they wont even encourage, support, and even verbally say something. We
think theres only poverty overseas. Even here in America, the richest country in the world,
People live out of cardboard boxes and eat out of garbage cans. A lot of these people were
veterans and they are in this situation. Yet, people do not encourage feeding the poor. Its not
restricted to Muslim poor or non-Muslim poor.

,j#=j9 %!# E $

4. So, woe unto those performers of Salaah 5. Those who with their Salaah are
Sahun

However, it does not end there, theres more! If you think the above verses apply to a kaafir,
Think Again! Allaah says So, woe unto those performers of Salaah, those who with their
Salaah are Sahun. It includes not just the kaafir. Ibn Àbbas and others have said, "This means
the hypocrites who pray in public but do not pray in private.'' They are those people who pray
and adhere to the prayer, yet they are mindless of it. This may either be referring to its act
entirely, as Ibn Àbbas said, or it may be referring to performing it in its stipulated time that has
been legislated islamically. This means that the person prays it completely outside of its time.
This was said by Masruq and Abu Ad-Duha.
Wayl is a warning of a punishment. It is also described as being a place/valley in jahannam for
those who prayed but delayed their prayers outside of their times. Allah warns us about
this because it is a sign of hypocrisy and Riyaa.
It is important to note that when reciting this Surah in Salaah, we should not stop at Ayaah 4 or
else we would be saying Woe unto those performers of Salaah

These verses are in reference to those who are forgetful when making their prayers. Aan is
a preposition in Arabic called harf Jarr. Some of the scholars like Àtaa' bin Dinar said,
Alhamdulillah that it is Aan salatihim (with their prayer) and not fi salatihim (In their
107

prayer) because the latter would indicate heedlessness inside the prayers. And, then we would
all be doomed. Concentrating during Salaah is a challenge and is very difficult for many people.

These verses could also refer to the beginning time of the prayer, meaning those who usually
delay their prayer to the very last minute, when the time is almost over. It may also refer to not
fulfilling its pillars and conditions, in the required manner. The wording of the Ayaah comprises
all of these meanings. However, whoever has any of these characteristics mentioned then a
portion of this Ayaah applies to him. And whoever has all of these characteristics, then he has
completed his share of this Ayaah, and the hypocrisy of actions is fulfilled in him.

`.` ,`_ _. ` `, ,, ,, ' `, :
: . .` : . .` : . .` ``-, `.`,, .`` _`- `.
`,, `, .=`,` , .,`_' `,, = ,, ,
] _- , , [
Narrated Anas: I heard the Messenger of Allaah say: This is the prayer of the
hypocrite, this is the prayer of the hypocrite, this is the prayer of the hypocrite. He
sits watching the sun until it is between the two horns of Shaytaan. Then he stands
and pecks four (Rakàhs) and he does not remember Allaah (in them) except very
little.
[Bukhaari & Muslim]
This Hadeeth is describing the end of the time for the Àsr prayer, in which it is disliked to pray.
This person stands to pray, moving so quickly through the salah it is like the pecking of a crow.
He does not have tranquility or humility in it at all. It is as if he only stands to pray so that the
people will see him praying, and not because he is seeking the Face of Allaah . This is just
as if he did not pray at all. Allaah says in another part of the Quraan:
. .` .,`.-`, ,`, `,`,`- , ,` _ ,`. ,`
_ .,.,`, ` ., .,`,, . ,
(Verily, the hypocrites seek to deceive Allaah, but it is He Who deceives them.
And when they stand up with laziness and to be seen of men and they do not
remember Allaah but little.)
[An-Nisa 4:142]
108

Salaah is your hope, joy and happiness. It should not be a burden but a way for you to express
how much you love Allah and to show your gratitude. This is the importance of knowing
the Arabic language. The Salaah is in Arabic and cannot be prayed in any other language. For
this reason for many Muslims who do not understand Arabic it has just become a ritual,
something that they know they have to do. This makes it easier for Shaytaan to get to us, since
our connection with Allah is weak. Ibn Taymiyyah said that it was waajib for a Muslim to
learn Arabic. The reason being, the means becomes mandatory if it is the avenue by which the
goal must be accomplished.

What deeds are most beloved by Allaah ? Salah that is prayed on time. On time means
the starting time of the salah. However, if you have a legitimate reason where you cannot pray
it right at the beginning of time when it starts, then you have a legitimate window where you
can make the prayer.

%!# # $ 9#
6. Those who do good deeds only to be seen 7. And withhold Al-Maùn
Allaah is warning us about nifaaq, or hypocrisy and Riyaa, the hidden/minor shirk.
During the time of the Prophet the hypocrites wouldnt attend fajr and isha since it was
so dark no one would realize if they had prayed or didnt. However, during the daylight hours
they would all be present at the Masjid for prayer. We need to reflect on ourselves and the
state of our Iman if in our Masaajid the prayers with the least amount of people standing
behind the Imam are fajr and Isha.
` ` `, ,,` ,`_ _. ` `, ,, ` _` ` ., _`
= , _ .- `,-, ,`.,
[ ~' |
Narrated Àbdullah bin Àmr, the Messenger of Allaah said Whoever tries to make
the people hear of his deed, Allaah, the One Who hears His creation, will hear it and
make him despised and degraded.''
[Ahmad]
109

However if one does a deed solely for Allaah , but the people come to know about it, and
he is pleased with that then this is not considered showing off.
In the last verse, we are told of another characteristic of these people and that is; they dont
engage in small kindnesses. They do not like do favors for others, lend things, or help others
out, even if it be by something very small. Al Maaoon refers to something small and simple in
value. This could be something like lending sugar, or a pen but they do not wish to do so. They
are extremely stingy with little things, and so when it comes to giving Zakah, they are even
worse. These people do not worship their Lord well, nor do they treat His creation well.
May Allah protect us from the characteristics of Nifaq, Ameen.


Fact: disbelief in Islam has clear characteristics.
Beware: of exploiting the weak orphans, widows, the poor, etc.
Command: prayer is to be performed within its prescribed time limit, when its most
preferable.
Beware: of minor shirk. The righteous have to watch out for minor shirk, the desire to show
what you have, what you do, and so on even students of knowledge are not spared from these
things.
Beware: of hypocrisy, not helping out your brother & sister (and others), esp. with simple
things.
Fact: Islam concerns itself highly with social services and commands.
Command: Muslims provide social services, sincerely for Allaah . Social services make a
huge difference in dawah especially when you have no strings attached. Most non-Muslims
have strings attached and they wear their religion on their sleeves. If we cannot help
ourselves, we cannot help the non Muslims. These social services help us advance in our
dawah.
110
111
Touched by an Angel Chapter 13: Surah al-Kaafiroon - 109
ft{
t@^tty|

The Disbelievers

The disbelievers of Makkah came to the Prophet Muhammad and proposed a compromise. They
said they would follow the religion of Rasulallah for one year, and that he should follow their
religion the next year. They offered to raise the status of the messenger of Allah by making him a
king, providing him with wealth, and the most beautiful of women. All of this they promised to give him
on one condition, that he stop speaking badly about their false gods. This Surah proclaims complete
disavowal from the deeds of the idolators and commands total renunciation of what they worship and
practice. Allah's orders Prophet Muhammad to completely separate himself and the
Muslims from the religion of the Mushrikeen of Makkah.

112

.| _,=

.| ,,| , | 1 .=,- - =,-| | _ ? - .=,- ,| | _
=,-| 1 ,=,- - `=,- | | _ + - .=,- ,| | _ =,-| 5 _
,. _| ,,. ,| 6 _

Say (O Muhammad to these Mushrikn and Kfirn): "O AlKfirn
(disbelievers in Allh, in His Oneness, in His Angels, in His Books, in His
Messengers, in the Day of Resurrection, and in AlQadar)! (1) "I worship not that
which you worship, (2) "Nor will you worship that which I worship. (3) "And I shall
not worship that which you are worshipping. (4) "Nor will you worship that which I
worship. (5) "To you be your religion, and to me my religion (Islmic
Monotheism)." (6)

113

ft{ t@^ty|
The Disbelievers

There is Truth, Th There is Truth, Th There is Truth, Th There is Truth, There is Falsehood, and There is N ere is Falsehood, and There is N ere is Falsehood, and There is N ere is Falsehood, and There is No Compromise o Compromise o Compromise o Compromise

..| ,,|, |
1. Say (O Muhammad to these Mushrikn and Kfirn): "O Al-Kfirn
(disbelievers in Allh, in His Oneness, in His Angels, in His Books, in His
Messengers, in the Day of Resurrection, and in Al-Qadar)!
Allah instructs Prophet Muhammad to say, Oh disbelievers! This addresses
every single disbeliever on the face of the earth; however, this statement is particularly
directed towards the mushrikeen of Quraysh. In their ignorance they invited the Messenger of
Allah to worship their idols for a year and they would (in turn) worship Allah for a
year. Therefore, Allah revealed this Surah to Prophet Muhammad to declare disavowal
from any statues and rival gods.
.=,- - =,-| v - =,-| \ - .=,.- ,| v - - `=,- \| v
,=,- - =,-| \- .=,.- ,| v
2. "I worship not that which you worship, 3. "Nor will you worship that which
I worship. 4. "And I shall not worship that which you are worshipping. 5. "Nor
will you worship that which I worship.

And He is Allah Alone, Who has no partner. This is conveyed through the use of the word Ma
(what) in the second ayah which means Man (who). Then Allah continues depicting the
stark difference difference between the two when he tells Rasulallah to say, I do not
worship according to your worship, This means that he does not go along with or follow their
practices. In this ayah, Prophet Muhammad is told to negate anything that they are
involved in, so that nothing can be tainted with shirk.
114

The use of the faail in verse three and five is significant. The fil is used, in regards to something
that is not permanent (Allahu khalaq samawat wal ardh vs Allahu khaaliqu) Faail, on the other
hand connotes permanence. This ayah does not leave any room for compromise because of
the use of the faail. This verse which appears twice in this surah is also an affirmation. The
mushrikeen believed in Allah , but they worshipped and associated partners with him.
Thus, their worship is not the worship of Rasulallah which is tawheed, rather it is all
baatil, because they have tainted it with shirk.

Ibaadah in this surah is referring to tawheed. The kuffar did not have tawheed because they
gave the rights of Allah to other than Allah. They worshipped other idols along with Allah
, so their Ibaadah was in vain. Also, this worship could not be compared to that of the
Prophet Muhammad s worship. So, he is told to declare that he would only
worship Allah in the manner in which He loves and is pleased with. The Mushrikeen of Makkah
did not follow the commands of Allah and His Legislation in His worship rather, they invented
something false and invited Prophet Muhammad to commit the same sin.

Allah says,
;=, | ,,`,_ `- ,\- =| v ;,, - =| v, .,-,, .,
They are but names which you have named you and your fathers for
which Allh has sent down no authority. They follow but a guess and that
which they themselves desire, whereas there has surely come to them the
Guidance from their Lord!
[Surah An-Najm: 23]
And so because of this in the last verse of Surah Kafiroon, Allah instructs the Prophet
to say:
, . _| ,,. ,|
6. "To you be your religion, and to me my religion (Islmic Monotheism)."
The Messenger of Allah and his followers worship Allah, according to what He has
legislated. This is why the shahada states "There is no God worthy of being worshipped except
Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.'' This means that there is noone worthy of
115

worship except Allah and there is no path to Him (i.e., way of worshipping Him) other than that
which was sent with the Messenger of Allah . The idolators worshipped other than Allah,
in a way that Allah had not allowed. This is why in the last ayah there is a declaration of each
partys own religion. It shows that Islam is the true religion and cannot be mixed with
falsehood, and that no one can remove the believers from the truth.
Similarly in another verse, Allah says:
| -| \- .,,, ,| ,- ,| _- _| =,,= .,
.,- `- ;,
And if they belie you, say: "For me are my deeds and for you are your deeds!
You are innocent of what I do, and I am innocent of what you do!"
[Surah Yunus: 41]

The word Kafr comes from the root word Ka-Faa-Ra, which means to cover or conceal. In the
Islamic context the word kafr refers the covering of the truth. A kaafir is one who receives the
message, recognizes the truth, and then rejects Islam. Those who have not been given the
message or been presented with the truth, cannot be called a kaafir, because you cannot reject
something you never received.

QURANIC GEMS

Fact: Humanity is divided up into 2 groups: Muslims & Non-Muslims

Fact: Allah protected the Prophet from ever agreeing to any falsehood from the
disbelievers

Fact: Islam is the clear demarcation between belief & disbelief

Command: Muslims should be clear about their Islam

When dealing with disbelievers Muslims should put themselves in the role of a doctor
rather than a prosecutor, be concerned for their akhira, and endlessly strive to provide
them with the cure (Islam) so that they die on Iman and not on Kufr
116
117
Touched by an Angel Chapter 14: Surah al-Feel - 105

ft{
t@Yxx
The Elephant

Years before the birth of the Prophet Ibrahim made duaa to Allah for the
security and prosperity of Makkah. Thus, by the will of Allah the city flourished and
became a center for trade. This brought along with it much prestige and an elevated status.

Upon seeing this Abraha, a Christian in Yemen very upset. He saw the people
circumambulating the Kaaba in Makkah and decided to build a huge church in Sana to divert
them. The structure was beautifully crafted, and elaborately decorated on all sides. The Arabs
called it Al-Qullays because of its great height. After its completion, he tried to force the Arabs
to make their pilgrimage to this magnificent church, instead of to the Kaaba in Makkah,
however they refused. One man from the tribe of Banu Qinana even went so far as to defecate
in it. On seeing his church defiled, Abraha swore to march to the Kaaba in Makkah and destroy
it stone by stone.

After a group of young men from the Quraysh started a fire inside the church, which resulted in
the entire structure burning down, Abraha set out with a huge and powerful army on his
mission to destroy the Kaaba. He took along a great, powerful elephant that had a huge body
the like of which had not been seen before. This elephant was called Mahmud and was sent to
Abrahah from the king of Abyssinia, particularly for this expedition. His intention was to use this
big elephant to demolish the Kaaba. When the Arabs heard of Abraha's expedition, they tried to
defend the Sacred House and repel the army of elephants but all were defeated. This was due
to Allah's will and His intent to honor and venerate the Ka`bah.
Upon reaching the city, Abraha sent his troops on a foray to capture the camels and other
grazing animals of the Makkans, which they did, including about two hundred camels belonging
to Àbdul-Muttalib. When the two men met, Abraha was so impressed by his appearance that
118

he descended from his seat and sat with him on the ground. However, when the first thing that
Abdul-Muttalib asked about was his camels Abraha lost this respect for him. Àbdul-Muttalib
said to him, "Verily, I am the lord of the camels. As for the House, it has its Lord who will defend
it.'' Àbdul-Muttalib then returned to his people and ordered them to leave Makkah and seek
shelter at the top of the mountains. He then asked Allah to protect his house and to give them
victory over Abraha and his army.
Abraha mobilized his army, and turned the huge elephant towards the Kaaba. However, it
refused to move forward. The men beat the elephant, but to no avail. Then Allah sent
against them birds from the sea, which destroyed the army of Abraha. This incident happened
the same year the Prophet Muhammad was born. Allah consoles the Prophet
while warning the disbelievers with the revelation of this surah.

119

| _,= ,

,| ==|, c,_ - ., ,|| 1 _ , =, -, ,|| _
,= ? ,,,| ,| ,,,- =_| _ 1 - _, ,,,- _
`= , + ,,|- .=- ,,- _ 5 _

Have you (O Muhammad ) not seen how your Lord dealt with the Owners of
the Elephant? [The elephant army which came from Yemen under the command of
Abrahah AlAshram intending to destroy the Ka'bah at Makkah]. (1) Did He not
make their plot go astray? (2) And He sent against them birds, in flocks, (3) Striking
them with stones of Sijjl (baked clay). (4) And He made them like (an empty field of)
stalks (of which the corn has been eaten up by cattle). (5)

120

ft{ t@Yxx
The Elephant

Nothing can outmatch the power of Allah Nothing can outmatch the power of Allah Nothing can outmatch the power of Allah Nothing can outmatch the power of Allah

,| ..=|, c,_ - ., ,|| - ,= _ ,=, -, ,||
1. Have you (O Muhammad not seen how your Lord dealt with the
Owners of the Elephant? [The elephant army which came from Yemen under
the command of Abrahah Al-Ashram intending to destroy the Ka'bah at
Makkah]. 2. Did He not make their plot go astray?

This surah shows the love and and protection of Allah for his beloved Messenger .
He consoles Rasulallah by mentioning the incident of Abraha and his army of elephants.
This occured the year the Prophet was born. When Abraha marched forward confidently
with his elephant, commanding it to destroy the house of Allah, its feet sank into the ground
and it would not budge. However, when it was turned back towards Yemen and in any other
direction away from the Kaaba, it walked quickly. Abrahas men beat it with sticks, but to no
avail. Thus, Allah sends signs but when they persisted in their defiance, then the adhaab
of Allah came down upon them. Allah warns the disbelievers of the fate of those that go
against that which is sacred in the sight of Allah. The Prophet is a great deal more
valuable than stone. So, how severe must be the torment of those who attempt to harm him,
when such a destructive punishment overcame those who tried to destroy the Kaaba?

- ,,,| ,| ,,,- =_| - ,`= `- _, ,,,- - ,,-
,,|- .=-
3. And He sent against them birds, in flocks, 4. Striking them with stones of
Sijjl (baked clay). 5. And He made them like (an empty field of) stalks (of
which the corn has been eaten up by cattle).

121

Allah sent squadrons of small birds to destroy the large and powerful army of Abraha. Each
bird carried in its beak and its claws stones of baked clay. These stones literally pierced through
the bodies of the soldiers, like laser beams, killing them. Some died instantly while others were
torn limb from limb as they tried to escape and run away. The destroyed army of Abraha lay on
the ground like a field of chewed up stalks, eaten by cattle.

Thus, Allah granted victory to the Quraysh. He is the one that blessed the city and
provided them with all that they had. Had Allah not protected them then the outcome
would have been very different. Therefore, Allah is reminding the Quraysh of how he has
provided for them, and yet they continue to disbelieve. Not only that, but they abuse his
Messenger . This surah contains a warning that if they do not desist in their behavior
towards the Prophet Allah will send his torment upon them and destroy them like
he destroyed those before them.

QURANIC GEMS

Allah consoles the messenger to relieve his abuse and suffering incurred by
Quraysh.
Fact: reason for surah.
Fact: Allah destroyed Abraha and his army of elephants to protect the Kaba.
Beware Quraysh. Allah loves the messenger more than the Kabah.
Fact: Allah reminds Quraysh about their livelihood and subtly warns them of His
punishment.
Fact: Allah is the Omnipotent; His will is done on earth just as it is done in
Heaven.
Command: become Muslims.

122
123
Touched by an Angel Chapter 15: Surah al-Falaq - 113

ft{
t@Ytt

The Daybreak

The Prophet had a young jewish servant whom he went to visit when he fell ill. One of
the tribes of Madina decided to use this opportunity to make an attempt on the Prophet
s life. So, they convinced the boy and his father to get the comb of Rasulallah .
Then taking the hair from it, they committed an evil sin and performed black magic on him.
Rasulallah suffered for six months. Of the effects of the magic were that he would
have an illusion that he did something which, in fact he did not do.

Jibreel and the angels visited Rasulallah and had a conversation discussing what
was wrong with the Messenger of Allah , who did it, and how. This was for the benefit of
the Prophet so that he would learn what to do. Immediately afterwards, he called
two of his companions and asked them to go to such and such a place and find such and such a
thing and they did. There were twelve knots. Rasulallah recited surah Falaq and untied
each knot, until they were all untied.
The Prophet described the conversation that took place between the angels to his wife
saying,
=- =-| =- .-_ _| -, -,= , _| =| = .| .-| .-=- , _=|_
-| _=|_ =- =| , ._-_ =- -| ,| -| ,, - ,| .`=,,=- .-,| -
124

,| ,=-| , =,,| ,| .- . ..,,,| `.,- ,__ _, - -_ ,| ,, ==- _
,| .-|=- ,| ,| ._. , _ -, -_ . .. --| `.- _ _| ,| =
_|,=| _ , .|.- -- - .| .,,_| .| | ._= = = -|
= | - =-| _- _|
(O À'ishah! Do you know that Allah has answered me concerning that which I asked
Him Two men came to me and one of them sat by my head while the other sat by my
feet. The one who was sitting by my head said to the other one, `What is wrong with
this man' The other replied, `He is bewitched.' The first one said, `Who bewitched
him' The other replied, `Labid bin A`sam. He is a man from the tribe of Banu Zurayq
who is an ally of the Jews, and a hypocrite.' The first one asked, `With what (did he
bewitch him) The other replied, `With a comb and hair from the comb.' The first one
asked, `Where (is the comb)' The other answered, Ìn the dried bark of a male date
palm under a rock in a well called Dharwan.') À'ishah said, "So he went to the well
to remove it (the comb with the hair). Then he said, (This is the well that I saw. It was
as if its water had henna soaked in it and its palm trees were like the heads of devils.)
So he removed it (of the well). Then I (À'ishah) said, `Will you not make this public'
He replied, (Allah has cured me and I hate to spread (the news of) wickedness to any
of the people.)''
[Sahih Al Bukhari]

Magic is a major sin but this incident shows that magic is real, and those involved in it really do
exist. Allah provides a means of protection for people with the revelation of the
Muawwidhatayn.

125

| _,=

.,, ,`' 1 - `, ` 2 ., `, `,
3 ` .` `, `, 4 - - `, `, 5

S-y 'I cck rctuc witl ,Alll, tlc lord ot tlc d-ylrc-k, ,1, 'lrom tlc cvil ot wl-t
Uc l- rc-tcd: ,`, 'And trom tlc cvil ot tlc d-rkcnin ,nilt, - it omc witl it
d-rknc: ,or tlc moon - it ct or oc -w-y, ,, 'And trom tlc cvil ot tloc wlo
r-tic witlr-tt wlcn tlcy llow in tlc knot, ,1, 'And trom tlc cvil ot tlc cnvicr
wlcn lc cnvic.' ,,
126

ft{ t@Ytt
The Daybreak

| =, .,-| | - - - = -
1. Say: "I seek refuge with (Allh) the Lord of the daybreak,

Allah begins this surah by teaching us to seek protection in Him (Qul audhu). Audhu
means to seek protection, refuge, or safety. Allah is the lord of al falaq, the daybreak or
morning. This word is mentioned in another verse,
_,=, |
He is the Cleaver of the daybreak.''
[Al-Anaam: 96]
Allah then specifies what we need to be wary of and seek protection from.
- - = - - .| ., =- = -
2. From the evil of what He has created; 3. And from the evil of the darkening
(night) as it comes with its darkness; (or the moon as it sets or goes away)
Allah s creation can be good or evil. However, we only attribute the good to Allah and
we do not attribute that which is evil to Allah . Among the evil of all created things are
Hell, Iblis and his descendants. The time in which this evil occurs is ghasiqin idha waqab, at
night when the sun sets and the darkness advances. According to another opinion, ghasiq refers
127

to the moon. The evidence for the people who hold this position (that it means the moon) is
the following narration.
Imam Ahmad recorded from Al-Harith bin Abi Salamah who said that À'isha said,
"The Messenger of Allah took me by my hand and showed me the moon when
it rose, and he said,
.| ., =-| = `= - =, .,-
(Seek refuge with Allah from the evil of this Ghasiq when it becomes dark.)''
[At-Tirmidhi & An-Nasa'i]
It is after Maghrib that the shayateen run loose and under the cover of darkness that they lurk,
and conceal themselves as opposed to the daylight hours, when things are more visible. This
includes wild animals as well as humans.

=-| _ ...| = -
4. And from the evil of those who practice witchcrafts when they blow in the
knots

Blowing into knots is one form of magic. Magic and those who practice it actually do exist. Allah
says,

=-| - .-, - =.- =. ,,, ,| _- ,| \-
,, -, .,|`, - ,- .,-, : - , v,, _-
--_ |
Teaching mankind magic and that which was revealed to the two angels in
Babel, Harut and Marut. Nor did they (the two angels) teach it to anyone till
they had said: We are only a temptation, therefore disbelieve not (in the
guidance of Allah). And from these two (angles) people learn that by which
they cause division between man and wife;
128

[Al-Baqarah:102]

Al-Hasan Al-Basri said that this Ayah means, "The angels were sent with magic, so that the
people whom Allah willed would be tried and tested. Allah made them promise that they would
not teach anyone until first proclaiming, `We are a test for you, so do not fall into disbelief.'
However, some were led astray. We ask Allah for protection against all such things.

=.- ., ==- = -
5. And from the evil of the envier when he envies.

Jealousy is a sickness and disease of the heart that is like a cancer, which spreads and
consumes. Most of the time when jealousy exists it has to do with material possessions or
matters of the dunya. It causes a person to wish evil upon the one that has what they
themselves do not. This feeling preoccupies the mind of the envious person and leads to their
destruction in the dunya and the aakhirah.


Command: seek Allahs protection against the devils (jinn and human) alike.
Fact: Tawhid of Allah is the Muslims fortress.
Command: learn and apply the many teaching in the sunnah for protection.
129
130
Touched by an Angel Chapter 16: Surah an-Naas - 114

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t@att

Mankind

The Messenger of Allah would seek protection by reciting the Muawwidhatayn. He
instructed his companions to recite these suwar, saying:
. || -,- , = ,- - ,_,= c-| || .-,- , | ,, || ,_, ] .,-| |
| `=, [ ] | `=, .,-| | [ .| . ,, || ..,- , .,|_ .,
(O Ùqbah! Will you not ride) I was afraid that this might be considered an act of
disobedience. So the Messenger of Allah got down and I rode for a while. Then he
rode. Then he said, (O Ùqbah! Should I not teach you two Surahs that are of the best
two Surahs that the people recite) I said, Òf course, O Messenger of Allah.' So he
taught me to recite (Say: "I seek refuge with the Lord of Al-Falaq.'') (113:1) and (Say:
"I seek refuge with the Lord of mankind.'') (114:1) Then the call was given to begin
the prayer and the Messenger of Allah went forward (to lead the people), and he
recited them in the prayer. Afterwards he passed by me and said, (What do you think,
O Ùqayb Recite these two Surahs whenever you go to sleep and whenever you get
up.)''
[An-Nasa'i & Abu Dawud]

131

| _,=

| =, .,-| | 1 | c- _ ? | -|, _ 1 `= - _
| ,=,| + | _== _ ,=,, =| _ 5 - _
| -| 6 _

Say: "I seek refuge with (Allh) the Lord of mankind, (1) "The King of mankind
(2) "The Ilh (God) of mankind, (3) "From the evil of the whisperer (devil who
whispers evil in the hearts of men) who withdraws (from his whispering in one's
heart after one remembers Allh) , (4) "Who whispers in the breasts of mankind, (5)
"Of jinn and men." (6)

132

ft{ t@att
Mankind

| =, .,-| | - | c- - | -.|,
1.Say: "I seek refuge with (Allh) the Lord of mankind, 2. "The King of
mankind 3. "The Ilh (God) of mankind

In this surah, we learn of three attributes from the attributes of Allah , the Mighty and
Majestic. They are lordship, sovereignty and divinity. Thus, He is the Lord of everything, the
King of everything and the God of everything. All things are created by Him, owned by Him, and
subservient to Him. The first three ayaat contain the concept of tawheed. Protection does not
come from talismans or magicians, but through tawheed in Allah . It is our means of
protection from evil and alleviation from fear. True tawheed necessitates that you align your
heart and soul with Allah and make him the one you turn to first, for everything.

| ,=,| = - - | _== _ ,=,, ;=|
4. "From the evil of the whisperer (devil who whispers evil in the hearts of
men) who withdraws (from his whispering in one's heart after one remembers
Allh) , 5. "Who whispers in the breasts of mankind,

In the next ayah, Allah commands us to seek refuge with the only one who possesses
these attributes, from the evil of the whisperer who withdraws. This whisperer is the devil that
is assigned to every person that beautifies wicked deeds for him. The only one safe from him is
he whom Allah protects.
The Messenger of Allah said,
-,| -, =| |, =-| - ,- - - |, _-|, .,=| -,- _-| = .| |, .,
,,
133

(There is not a single one of you except that his companion (a devil) has been
assigned to him.) They (the Companions) said, "What about you, O Messenger of
Allah'' He replied, (Yes. However, Allah has helped me against him and he has
accepted Islam. Thus, he only commands me to do good.)
It is also confirmed in the Two Sahihs from Anas, who reported the story of Safiyyah
when she came to visit the Prophet while he was performing I`tikaf, that he went out
with her during the night to walk her back to her house. So, two men from the Ansar
met him (on the way). When they saw the Prophet , they began walking swiftly. So,
the Messenger of Allah said,
_,- ., -,= ,, .=_ _- _`, .; =| ;- ;. , - , .=,=| .,
,| | .,= ,,| _ ==, .| .,=- =
(Slow down! This is Safiyyah bint Huyay!) They said, "Glory be to Allah, O
Messenger of Allah!'' He said, (Verily, Shaytan runs in the Son of Adam like the
running of the blood. And verily, I feared that he might cast something into your
hearts -- or he said -- evil.)

Khannaas is that which comes and goes. Shaytan will whisper to you or put a thought in your
head and then leave you with it. Others state that Khannaas means when you mention or are
involved in the remembrance of Allah , Shaytaan immediately leaves but as soon as you
become heedless, forget or sin, shaytan returns to you. Sudoor refers to the mind and heart.
Shaytan is always trying to put things in your mind and heart. He does not even leave you alone
in your sleep. Therefore, he is the worst enemy one can have and Allah commands us to
take him as an enemy.

We, as humans must seek the protection of Allah for Shaytan is deceptive and is
constantly trying to lead us astray through his evil whispers. There is not one among us except
that shaytan casts things into our hearts. He whispers to both the believers and disbelievers. If
you are Muslim, he wants to divert you from your goal and take you off the path to Jannah. For
the disbeliever, he wants to keep them on the path to Jahannam and from ever finding their
way to Allah . His whole purpose is to keep mankind stuck where they are or to bring
them down further. It is important to recognize his whispers for what they are so that you can
rid yourself of them. Shaytan is clever and cunning and has spent his entire existence from the
time of Prophet Adam until now misguiding mankind. Thus, he knows how to
approach us and which methods to use to trick us and trap us into following his footsteps and
disobeying Allah . So, no matter how intelligent we think we are we need to seek
protection against Shaytan, for no one is impervious to his evil whispers.
134

| -| -
5. "Who whispers in the breasts of mankind,

After telling mankind to seek refuge from those who whisper into the breasts of mankind, Allah
tells us the nature of these whisperers. The shayateen are of two forms; those that are
from the jinn and those that are from al-ins (humans). There are humans who are so evil that
Allah includes them in this category. They have lowered themselves so much that they
are mentioned with the vilest of creation that call people to harm.

In another verse in the Quraan Allah says,
_|, ,,=-, _-,, `| , _=.,= =- `_, | -- c|=
,,| =-_ -, _-
O (And so We have appointed for every Prophet enemies -- Shayatin among
mankind and Jinn, inspiring one another with adorned speech as a delusion.)
[Al-Anaam:112]
Imam Ahmad recorded that Ibn Àbbas said, "A man came to the Prophet and said,
Ò Messenger of Allah! Sometimes I say things to myself that I would rather fall
from the sky than say (aloud openly). The Prophet said,
-=,=,| _|, =, ._ =| = =| `,| = .,| =
(Allah is Most Great! Allah is Most Great! All praise is due to Allah Who sent his
(Shaytan's) plot back as only a whisper.)''
[Abu Dawud & An- Nasai]
Shaytaan is evil. When Allah created him He knew Shaytaan would become evil. Even
though He allowed this to happen we only attribute good to him and we do not attribute the
evil to Allah . In reality, Shaytaan is one of the discerning elements that separates the
believer from the disbeliever.

135

QURANIC GEMS

Command: Seek Allahs protection against the devils (jinn and human) alike. Allah
is commanding the prophet to seek protection in him

Shaytaan is our enemy, so treat him like an enemy. He has experience over us that dates
back to Prophet Adam . He is cunning and he knows how to fool us

Tawheed is a Muslims fortress

Tawheed is when we align ourselves with Allah (tawheed ar-ruboobiya, asma wa siffat).
Allah is the first one and only one we need to turn to for protection

Command: Learn and apply the many teachings in the sunnah for protection.
(Knowledge and authentic knowledge is necessary, and when you have this, Allah wipes
away the blindfold of ignorance
Sunnah: take your hands, spit lightly into them, recite surah ikhlaas, falaq, and nas and
wipe them over your body three times. Teach this to your children and implement it in
your household
Keep away from sin and keep yourself purified and involved in the remembrance of Allah,
and you will be under the protection of Allah
136
137
Touched by an Angel Chapter 17: Surah al-Ikhlaas - 112

ft{
t@\~{tt

Purity

Surah al Kaafiroon provides clear disavowal of Qurayshs deeds. Prophet Muhammad
was told to tell them that he would not be responsible for, or take any part in their idolatry. The
prophet was declaring himself innocent of their misdeeds and rejection of Allaah
.This confused some of the Makkan idolaters. Who is this Lord? They wondered. Some even
asked the Prophet, Oh Muhammad, why dont you describe who Allaah is for us? Then
Allaah revealed:

138

, _,= :-

`=-| -| , | 1 ==| -| _ ? =|,, ,| =, ,| _ 1 ,| _
`=-| , -| , + _

Say (O Muhammad ): "He is Allh, (the) One. (1) "AllhusSamad [Allh the
SelfSufficient Master, Whom all creatures need, (He neither eats nor drinks)]. (2)
"He begets not, nor was He begotten; (3) "And there is none coequal or comparable
unto Him." (4)

139

ft{ t@\~{tt
Purity

% u !$# ymr & !$# y9$#
1. Say (O Muhammad "He is Allh, (the) One. 2. "Allh-us-Samad (the
Self-Sufficient master, whom All creatures need, He neither eats nor
drinks)

Allaah is answering the questions of the pagans. He commands the Prophet , by
saying%, to tell the people what is to follow. Allaah says about Himself !$# u (He is
Allaah). This means that no one shares this name with him. Allaah then further calls
Himselfymr&. Ahad means one, but it meaning goes beyond that. The mufassiroon (scholars of
Quraanic interpretation) note that the way the word ymr& is used in this ayah denotes
exclusivity. Here it means that Allaah is unique, the only One. Allaah is not just
One in His being, but also in His attributes. Therefore nothing can be compared to Him in any
way. Hence, this ayah corrects the fallacious notions that the pagans were expressing.

Allaah further describes himself as y9$#. There are several different meanings for As-
Samad. Amongst these is the Master or Leader who has reached perfection in being the Master.
As-Samad also means the most noble and majestic, the epitome, the highest. Allaah is
the One who in everything that He is, He is the Absolute. Nothing has more knowledge, mercy,
wisdom, etc. than Allaah .Hence He is one who is sought after, and this is another
meaning to the word As-Samad. Who better to seek aid and other things from than the One
who is Absolute in His knowledge, ability, mercy, and all of His other attributes. Hence, even the
disbelievers in times of distress would turn to Allaah . Indeed, as-Samad is the one who is
ultimately the core of everything that we seek our needs from and expect to be answered.
140

Imam Ahmad recorded from Ubayy ibn Kaàb that the idolaters said to the Prophet, "O
Muhammad! Tell us the lineage of your Lord.'' So Allaah revealed:
s9 $#t s9u s9 s9u 3t &! #2 7ymr &

3. "He begets not, nor was He begotten 4."And there is none co-equal or
comparable unto him."

In these verses, Allaah answers the pagans and makes it clear that His divinity is His
alone, not shared with anyone. He has no children or progeny what so ever. Nor was He ever
born or begotten. Allaah has no mother, father, or grandparents. Allaah is the
first and the last. He has always been one and will always be one.

These verses provide us with conditions that are necessarily inherent for a God. With this
understanding, the truth becomes clear from falsehood. This then nullifies a key concept in
Christianity and in other past religions. The belief that Jesus was the son of God, or that
Hercules was the son of God cannot make sense, as Divinity cannot be shared. Hence, Allaah
stands alone as a God and He is therefore the only one worthy of worship.

The final verse reinforces and clarifies the previous verse. Allaah says that there is
nothing in existence that can ever be 2 (kufu) to Him. Meaning He is so unique in His
oneness and nothing in existence or in imagination can be in any way like Allaah .

Allaah mentions these specific qualities about Himself so as to make it clear that He has
no partners in His divinity. These verses also provide us with a means of understanding the
characteristics of the true God. These verses and conditions also make it easy to recognize the
shortcomings and inherent falsehood in those claiming to be gods. These lessons in tawheed
(the Oneness of Allaah) are not unique to the Quraan, they are in the Bible and in other books
of faith as well, yet many do not properly understand these lessons.

How many people are worshipping something that is created and yet think that it is The
Creator?

Hindus say they are misunderstood, they claim to believe in one god but say that god manifests
itself in its creation in many different ways. This goes against 7ymr& #2. The Creator cannot
be like His creation in their dependence, limited knowledge, life cycle, deficiencies and other
141

characteristics. People who give Allaah s qualities to saints also fall into the same error,
opposing an aspect of Allaah s Oneness that is mentioned in this chapter.

Al-Bukhaari recorded from Abu Saìd that a man heard another man reciting,
`-' ` ,`

Say: "He is Allaah, One
[Al-Ikhlaas: 1]
And he was repeating it over and over. When morning came, the man went to the Prophet
and mentioned this to him, and it was as though he was belittling it. The Prophet
said,
` ,` ,, , .`, .

By He in Whose Hand is my soul, verily it is equivalent to a third of the
Quraan
[Abu Dawud and An-Nasa'i]

The Mufasiroon note that much of the Quraan focuses on one of three themes, tawheed,
rulings, or stories. Who Allaah is and how to worship Him, His rulings, and the stories of
the Prophets and their struggles all center on tawheed. This chapter focuses on Allaah
and tawheed specifically and is equal to one third of the Quraan. Allaah out of his mercy
has made this surah brief (only 4 verses) and allowed many people to memorize it in their
youth. Despite this, Iblees often tries to belittle this chapter in the eyes of man. However, this
chapter has great magnitude in meaning and even greater when it is truly understood. By
understanding and pondering over the lessons of this chapter, Allaah is nearing you to
him.
It was narrated by À'isha that, "The Prophet sent a man as the commander of a war
expedition and he used to lead his companions in prayer with recitation (of the Quraan). He
would complete his recitation with the recitation of `Say: He is Allaah, One.' When they
returned they mentioned this to the Prophet and he said,
142

: `_`., .` `' `,
Ask him why he does that
So they asked him and he said, `Because it is the description of Ar-Rahmaan and I love to
recite it. So the Prophet said,
'-`, _ = .' `,`,`-'
Inform him that Allaah the Most High loves him.
[Bukhari, Muslim]
May Allaah make us among the people who truly understand His book and allow it to
enter our heart in such a way that it would lead us to love Him and enter Jannah Ameen.

`- , ``, `, `- ``, `.` . ` `,` ` ., `, ` ,`,` `
:
`` .' ` _. ,, `, _- `, , _ ,' . `, `, . ,, ',
,, ,` ` `-' , `.,, ,`' , `.,, ,`' ` _=` ,, `_`, `,
,, '`, - ` . : , - ` ' , ,`-,, '_ _ .`,
[ _- ]

A'isha said that whenever the Prophet would go to bed every night, he
would put his palms together and blow into them. Then he would recite into
them (his palms), `Say: He is Allaah, One', `Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of
Al-Falaq', and `Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of mankind.' Then he would
wipe whatever he was able to of his body with them (his palms). He would
begin wiping his head and face with them and the front part of his body. He
would do this (wiping his body) three times.
[Bukhaari]

143

QURAN QURAN QURAN QURANIC GEMS IC GEMS IC GEMS IC GEMS

Fact: Allaah can only be known through revelation by understanding His
beautiful names and sublime attributes.
Fact: Tawheed is the greatest commandment.
Fact: Allaah has no descendants or ancestors; no children or parents, He is
Absolute and One.
Command: worship Allaah only.

144
145
Touched by an Angel Chapter 18: Surah Abasa - 80

ft{ Tutt
He Frowned

The Prophet made it his life mission to be the example of what Islamic life is suppose to
be like. He was so merciful and compassionate that when he saw someone rejecting the truth it
would hurt him. This is because he knows of the torment that lie ahead of them in Jahanam and
the wrath of Allaah that they justify upon themselves. The relationship between the
prophet and Quraysh can be compared to the relationship between parents and
rebellious children. Parents seek out ways to do good for their children. The child recognizes
this but will still reject what their parents say and mistreat them at times. The parent may
choose to try to appeal to the heart of the child but the child still chooses to be a rebellious
renegade. This is similar to the experience the messenger of Allaah was having with the
Quraysh. They knew nothing but good from him and yet they chose to treat him poorly and
deny what they know to be the clear truth.

One day the prophet was preaching to a leader amongst the disbelievers. The prophet
was trying as best he can to focus his efforts on delivering the message to this man.
During this time, Ibn Umm Maktoom approached the prophet . Ibn Umm Maktoom was a
believer, and he was related to Khadijah. More importantly he was blind. He came to ask the
prophet to teach Him from what Allaah has revealed. The Prophet did not
want to leave his conversation with the man from Quryash at the same time he had a Muslim
asking for knowledge. Allaah recounts how the Prophet reacted in this situation
and gently rebukes him for it.

146
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147
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(The Prophet ) frowned and turned away, (1) Because there came to him the
blind man (i.e. 'Abdullh bin UmmMaktm, who came to the Prophet while
he was preaching to one or some of the Quraish chiefs) (2) And how can you know
that he might become pure (from sins)? (3) Or that he might receive admonition, and
that the admonition might profit him? (4) As for him who thinks himself self
sufficient, (5) To him you attend; (6) What does it matter to you if he will not
become pure (from disbelief, you are only a Messenger, your duty is to convey the
Message of Allh) (7) But as to him who came to you running (8) And is afraid (of
Allh and His Punishment), (9) Of him you are neglectful and divert your attention
to another, (10) Nay, (do not do like this), indeed it (this Qur'n) is an admonition,
(11) So whoever wills, let him pay attention to it. (12) (It is) in Records held (greatly)
in honour (AlLauh AlMahfz). (13) Exalted (in dignity), purified, (14) In the hands
of scribes (angels). (15) Honourable and obedient. (16) Be cursed (the disbelieving)
man! How ungrateful he is! (17) From what thing did He create him? (18) From
Nutfah (male and female semen drops) He created him, and then set him in due
proportion; (19) Then He makes the Path easy for him; (20) Then He causes him to
die, and puts him in his grave; (21) Then, when it is His Will, He will resurrect him
(again). (22) Nay, but (man) has not done what He commanded him. (23) Then let
man look at his food, (24) We pour forth water in abundance, (25) And We split the
earth in clefts, (26) And We cause therein the grain to grow, (27) And grapes and
clover plants (i.e. green fodder for the cattle), (28) And olives and datepalms, (29)
And gardens, dense with many trees, (30) And fruits and herbage. (31) (To be) a
provision and benefit for you and your cattle. (32) Then, when there comes As
148
Skhkhah (the second blowing of the Trumpet on the Day of Resurrection) (33)
That Day shall a man flee from his brother, (34) And from his mother and his father,
(35) And from his wife and his children. (36) Everyman, that Day, will have enough
to make him careless of others. (37) Some faces that Day, will be bright (true
believers of Islmic Monotheism). (38) Laughing, rejoicing at good news (of
Paradise). (39) And other faces, that Day, will be duststained; (40) Darkness will
cover them, (41) Such will be the Kafarah (disbelievers in Allh, in His Oneness, and
in His Messenger Muhammad SAW, etc.), the Fajarah (wicked evil doers). (42)

149

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1. (the Prophet frowned and turned away, 2. because there came to Him
the blind man (i.e. 'Abdullh bin Umm-Maktm, who came to the Prophet
while He was preaching to one or some of the Quraish chiefs) 3. but what
could tell You that per chance He might become pure (from sins)? 4. or that He
might receive admonition, and that the admonition might profit him? 5. as for
Him who thinks himself self-sufficient 6. to Him You attend 7. what does it
matter to You if He will not become pure (from disbelief, You are Only a
Messenger, Your duty is to convey the message of Allh). 8. but as to Him who
came to You running. 9. and is afraid (of Allh and his punishment), 10. of
Him You are neglectful and divert Your attention to another 11. Nay, (Do not
do like this), indeed it (these Verses of This Qur'n) are an admonition 12. so
whoever wills, let Him pay attention to it 13. (it is) In records held (greatly) In
honour (Al-Lauh Al-Mahfz) 14. Exalted (in dignity), purified 15. In the hands
of scribes (angels) 16. honourable and obedient.

150

The Prophet frowned at Abdullah Ibn Umm Maktoom, asked him to wait while he
finished his conversation, and turned away. Here Allaah is teaching the prophet
in the most beautiful of ways. Approach and presentation make all the difference. Allaah
was not belligerent but talked in the third person in regards to Prophet . It is a sign of
love to correct somebody and to prevent them from going down the wrong path. Hence, we
should accept advice when it comes to us, regardless of who it is from and how difficult it might
be to accept.

Although Ibn Umm Maktoom was blind and could not see that the Prophet frowned and
turned away, Allaah teaches us through these verses that there should be an added
sensitivity towards the handicapped. By implementing the lessons from these verses, we
understand that we need to show we care for all those who seek to purify themselves. This care
should not just be in our heart, but should show with things such as the construction of
mosques with handicap entrances and accommodations at other functions, as well.

Prophet Muhammad was concerned with the disbelieving elite of the Quraysh due to
their potential and influence as leaders of Makkah. Here Allaah tells the prophet
that he should not be more concerned with a person because of their wealth or prestige.
Perhaps the poorer person would have purified his soul; moreover, the prophet does not
know whether the men from Quraysh will become purified at all. The companion here is like
the bird that is in a persons hand, while the man from Quraysh is like the bird up in a tree. If
you run after the bird in the tree, you may lose the bird in your hand and there is no guarantee
that you will catch the bird in the tree, hence you may end up with nothing.

Allaah alternates in these verses discussing the one who thought he was self-
sufficient, not really interested in Islam and the one who came to the Prophet hurriedly
and in fear of Allaah s punishment. This juxtaposition makes the differences and the
message clearer and more profound. After presenting the differences between these two
people and the way the prophet dealt with them, Allaah says that Islam is an
admonition which benefit the one who wants it. . !: , meaning whether or not
someone wants to pay attention to this reminder is his or her own choice.

Allaah then mentions the 3 #>. This refers to more than one type of record. One
meaning is the Lawh al Mahfooz (the preserved tablets), the second refers to the Quraan, and
the third is in reference to the books that the angels are writing our deeds in. When the plural
form of the word kareem is used it means honorable and majestic. This is how Allaah
151

describes those who are the scribes or who write down this record. Jibreel and the
angels are all pure, honorable, and free of corruption. This can also be referring to the
companions of the prophet who wrote down various narrations and are honorable and
free of corruption.

The Ungratefulness of Man and His Arrogance to His Creator The Ungratefulness of Man and His Arrogance to His Creator The Ungratefulness of Man and His Arrogance to His Creator The Ungratefulness of Man and His Arrogance to His Creator

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17. be cursed (the disbelieving) man! How ungrateful He is! 18. from what
thing did He create him? 19. from Nutfah (male and female semen drops) He
created him, and Then set Him In due proportion; 20. Then He makes the Path
easy for him; 21. Then He causes Him to die, and puts Him In his grave; 22.
then, when it is his will, He will resurrect Him (again). 23. Nay, but (man) has
not done what He commanded Him.

Allaah now talks about the disbelievers who continue in their disbelief regardless of the
warning and signs presented to them. Here the word . ! has two interpretations. One
poses a question, as in what can cause a person do to reach a level where they would insist on
disbelief against their own sound judgment. The other indicates that a level of amazement and
astonishment at their arrogance and disbelief. These people are indeed cursed.

After mentioning, the strange state of the disbelievers Allaah reminds them of His signs
and of their humble beginnings. They all began from a nutfah. A nutfah is the entity that forms
when an egg is fertilized by a sperm cell. This is a very simple and humble beginning. Most
people would feel that such a mixture is disgusting, but in fact it is pure and Allaah then
fashions a human from it. This is just one miraculous illustration of Allaah s power and
should be should serve as a reminder and humble the person.
152

After fashioning him, Allaah makes the path easier for the person. Path here refers to
the path that the fertilized zygote takes to go from appearing like a small cloudy liquid, to a
fetus, to a full-grown human walking through the Earth. The path also refers to the persons life
in the dunya. Allaah has made a path for us to walk in, he has given us a stable ground to
walk on, he keeps the sky held high and allows rain to fall on the Earth to produce sustenance
for our survival; hence, our path on Earth has been made easier for us. This is all a way of
honoring us. Even in our death Allaah wishes for us, a respectful end. Allaah sent
birds to Qabeel to teach him how to bury Habeel (these were Adams sons).

After all this Allaah calls attention to the day of resurrection when we will be held
accountable for all that we chose to do in our lives. After the signs, the warnings, and the
mercy that Allaah has shown there will be no justification for our actions. Allaah
has shown us times filled with blessing and times of trials so that we can be grateful and reflect.
If after all of this, ingratitude is still expressed then these individuals have justified the torment
of jahanam upon themselves. May Allaah protect all of us from hell fire and grant us a
home in paradise, Ameen.

Finally, Allaah says Kalla (nay) everything will happen and there should be no false
rationalizations. Allaah 's decree is already there. For those who do not want to believe,
they will have a rude awakening.

Examples of Allaahs Encompassing Power Examples of Allaahs Encompassing Power Examples of Allaahs Encompassing Power Examples of Allaahs Encompassing Power to do Anything He to do Anything He to do Anything He to do Anything He
Wishes Wishes Wishes Wishes

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153

24. Then let man look at his food, 25. that we Pour forth water In abundance,
26. and we split the earth In clefts, 27. and we Cause therein the grain to grow,
28. and grapes and clover plants (i.e. green fodder for the Cattle) 29. and olives
and date-palms, 30. and gardens, dense with many trees, 31. and fruits and
Abba (herbage, etc.) 32. (to be) a provision and benefit for You and Your cattle.

After Allaah has spoken of the resurrection He talks about the growth of a seed.
Essentially watching a plant grow is analogous to resurrection. In order for the seed to grow it
must first be dry and dead. It comes to life, and then it will die, and return to the Earth.

Allaah tells them to look at their food. They lived in a desert, life does not grow where
theres no water. In the desert, there is extreme dryness and heat. The moment Allaah
sends down the rain the Earth it touches changes.

,`, `,`, ` ``-,, ., .`, .` `=``, ,- `_` _
` ., , ..' , - ` `_`,`-, `, ,
.,`,``, `,`
It is God who sends forth the winds [of hope], so that they raise a cloud -
whereupon He spreads it over the skies as He wills, and causes it to break up
so that thou seest rain issue from within it: and as soon as He causes it to fall
upon whomever He wills of His servants - lo! they rejoice,]
[Al-Room:48]

The Shaykh who has lived in such climates for some time has seen this with his own eyes. A
patch emerges that looks like a chunk of Mars starts flourishing with greenery. Allaah
causes the earth to split so the greenery would come out.

In the verses that follow Allaah mentions some of the vegetation that have a
tremendous amount of value to the Arabs at that time. The dates, olives, fruits, and seeds are
all vital for the people, the economy, and their animals. Allaahis also reminding them
that He is there Sustainer and that they should be humbled by these signs.

154

Glimpses of the Apocalypse Glimpses of the Apocalypse Glimpses of the Apocalypse Glimpses of the Apocalypse
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33. then, when there comes As-Skhkhah (the Day of Resurrection's second
blowing of Trumpet), 34. that Day shall a man flee from his brother, 35. and
from his mother and his father, 36. and from his wife and his children.
37.Everyman, that day, will have enough to make Him careless of others.

The Generous and Merciful Master that Allaah is after reminding with examples of His
power, our humble beginnings, He tells us about the Day of Judgment so that we can reflect.

Allaah has several different names for the Day of Judgment as He has given so many
different names for Jahannam and Jannah. Things of importance and great merit often have
multiple names and characteristics. Here Allaah describes what happens when As-
Saakhah comes to be. This deafening blast will come from the second blowing of the trumpet.
At this time we will all be waiting for Allaah to judge between us. The sound will be so
powerful it would literally cause people to lose their hearing and become deaf.

`._`, ``` `._ `,`-' , `.,`,` - , ,
`.=` `_ `.,`- `,`-`, , `.,`-` `_- ,

When the sun is folded up. And when the stars fall and lose their luster. And
when the mountains are made to pass away; And when the pregnant she-
camels are neglected; And when the wild beasts are gathered together. And
when the seas become as blazing fire.
[Takweer: 1-6]

On this day many strange things will occur. Images that have never entered the imagination will
be before us. The people, who would give their lives for each other on that Day, will act like
complete strangers. Even the closest of brothers will run away from each other. Everyone will
desperately say, nafsee, nafsee! Caring only for themselves. Even our parents whom we are
supposed to care for while they are alive and honor them after they die will be abandoned on
155

this day. A child can never, except in rare occasions, love their parents as much as their parents
love their kids; especially the heart of the mother, but on this day her child will mean nothing to
her. On this day, all the issues that troubled us and occupied our time, big and small, will mean
nothing because on that day the issue and event that has been waiting for us is taking place.
We will be so preoccupied with ourselves that no one, nothing else is going to matter.

If you claim, you believe in the reality of that day, than this belief should be manifested in the
way you live your life.

Humanity Divided into Two Camps Humanity Divided into Two Camps Humanity Divided into Two Camps Humanity Divided into Two Camps

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38. some faces that day, will be bright (true believers of Islmic Monotheism).
39. Laughing, rejoicing at good news (of Paradise). 40. and other faces, that
day, will be dust-stained; 41. darkness will cover them, 42. such will be the
Kafarah (disbelievers In Allh, In his Oneness, and In his Messenger
Muhammad , etc.), the Fajarah (wicked evil doers).

On that day, some of the faces are going to be illuminated. They will glow brightly with clear
expressions of happiness and joy. There will be others whose faces will be dust-stained. They
will have this expression, even from the beginning, where their faces will be dark and covered
with dirt. They will be feeling heavy from the news of Jahannam.

This description of those who have done evil as having darkened faces on the Day of Judgment
or illuminating faces for good deeds should not be understood in terms of the way we evaluate
color on Earth. Racism is not from Islam and these descriptions refer to what will come after life
on this Earth ends. There can be no such comparison.

May Allaah reserve for all of us an honorable place in Jannah in the hereafter and protect
us from Hells fire-Ameen.

156

QURA QURA QURA QURANIC GEMS NIC GEMS NIC GEMS NIC GEMS

Fact: Indication of Allaahs love for the prophet
Fact: Allaah nurtured and disciplined the messenger in the best way.
Command: Emulate the messenger in dealing with others.
Fact: This surah is another proof of the prophets truthfulness in conveying the entire
message of the Quraan with no personal interest involved.
Fact: Reason for ayahs being revealed, Ibn Ummi Maktoom.
Fact: True knowledge of Allaah entails sincere belief in Him, the messenger and
the message.
Fact: We can never reciprocate for Allaah 's blessings. We can never repay and
will always fall short.
Command: O believers learn from this example.
Fact: The disbeliever is cursed.
Command: believe and live righteously so you're not cursed.
Fact: Allaah created us, and details our creation.
Fact: Allaah controls both life and death.
Fact: Death isn't the end.
Fact: the resurrection, Judgment and Recompense are absolute.
Fact: description of events on Judgment Day: absolute fear and greed, family wont
matter.
Fact: Reality is absolute on that day.
Fact: on that day no one will want to see and face the other, not even the closest of people
and relationships.
Fact: Allaah is the creator and provider.
Fact: Allaah demonstrates His kindness for us.
Fact: knowledge of Allaah necessitates love for Him and a voluntary will to obey
and serve Him.
Command: Surrender your heart, mind and limbs to Allaah
Fact: everyone will be divided into two groups after Judgment Day.
Fact: correct belief and actions result in an illuminated face in the hereafter, while the
opposite occurs to the disbelievers.
Fact: another affirmation of the inevitable life hereafter

157
158
Touched by an Angel Chapter 19: Surah al-Qadr - 97

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The Night of Power The Night of Power The Night of Power The Night of Power

The Prophet mentioned someone from Bani Israel who carried weapons and fought for
the sake of Allaah during the day and would worship Allaah during the night for a
thousand months. The Muslims were astonished to hear this, and so Allaah revealed,

159

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,= .|| - `,- 1 ,, _| -| , _ - ,,`,_ ..,,
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Verily, We have sent it (this Qur'n) down in the night of AlQadr (Decree) (1) And
what will make you know what the night of AlQadr (Decree) is? (2) The night of
AlQadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months (i.e. worshipping Allh in that
night is better than worshipping Him a thousand months, i.e. 83 years and 4 months)
(3) Therein descend the angels and the Rh [Jibril (Gabriel)] by Allh's Permission
with all Decrees, (4) (All that night), there is Peace (and Goodness from Allh to His
believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn. (5)

160
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The Night of Power
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1. Verily! We have sent it (this Qur'n) down In the night of Al-Qadr (Decree)
2. And what will make You know what the night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is? 3.
The night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is better than a thousand months (i.e.
worshipping Allh In that night is better than worshipping Him a thousand
months, i.e. 83 years and 4 months).

Allah gives glad tidings to the believers about the night of Qadr. Indeed the night of
Qadr is a blessing for this ummah. In the first verse Allaah says anzalnaahu. The
scholars of Quraanic interpretation note that the word anzala refers to something that is sent
down in its complete form as opposed to the word nazala where something is sent down piece
by piece. Hence, it was on this night that the Quraan was sent down from the the Lawh el
Mahfooza (the preserved Tablets) to the lower skies of the Earth. Then the Quraan was
revealed over a 23-year period via the angel Jibreel to the Prophet Muhammad .
Allaah also mentions the night of Al-Qadr, and it is the night Allaah decreed for
the Quraan to begin its last stage of revelation towards humanity. Allaah also tells us
about His Qadr (power).
161
In the next verse Allaah uses a repetitive question form, to draw our attention further to
the subject of this verse, the night of Qadr. This affords an intensified sense of magnification of
its rank and value. In Surat ad-Dukhaan Allaah says regarding this night:
-- ',' _ -'- '- ,--- '- '- - - . -, ',
,= - '---= - - '- ,'-- '- - =- - -= -
,'' _,--' ,
We sent it down during a blessed night: for We (ever) wish to warn (against
Evil). (3) In that (night) is made distinct every affair of wisdom (4) By
Command, from Our presence. For We (ever) send (Revelations) (5) As a Mercy
from thy Lord: for He hears and knows (all things)
[ad-Dukhaan 44:2-6]

Allaah called this night a blessed night. It is on this night that the decrees are transferred
from the preserved tablets to the angels that write down the decrees that will occur the next
year including life span, provision, and other events for each individual.
To help us understand how important this night is, Allaah out of His mercy gives us a
number. This night is better than a thousand months, better than 83 years and 4 months. For
some people this may be even greater than their lifespan. Some people mistakenly understand
that by praying this night they are excused for 83 years, this is incorrect. Worshipping Allaah
is obligatory on all the believers, and it is a blessing to have the opportunity to worship
Him and develop a relationship with the One who is the Greatest of all. A true believer would
not find happiness expect in Islam, as the prophet would say:
- = _ _,
All praise belongs to Allaah for the blessing of Islam and that is enough of a
blessing.

A righteous servant named AbdulQadr heard a voice from the sky while traveling. He asked,
Who is this? The voice said, This is your Lord, you have made it. You have reached that
162
special status in which you no longer have to fast or pray. When he heard this, AbdulQadr said
Be despised oh Shaytan. Shaytan was somewhat surprised and asked, How did you know it
was me? This man did not allow his imagination to run wild rather he assessed things in light
of Islam. This is where knowledge comes into play. AbdulQadr responded to Iblees and said:
1. First, you did not say you are Allaah.
2. Secondly, when Prophet Muhammad died, the revelation ended and Allaah
would not speak to humans directly. Further, there are those who are far better
than I, such as the companions, Allaah has not spoken to them and Allaah
will speak to me?
3. The Prophet lived all his life. The command Allaah gave to him was to
worship and continue to worship your Lord until the certainty of death has come to you.
Therefore, how can I have a command different from that?

This method of leading people astray is not new. Many people have been deceived by Iblees
or by someone who claimed to be a god. Iblees repeats his schemes throughout history. For
example, a man named Saul claims to have been riding his donkey. He then fell off it and hit
his head where upon he heard a voice call out to him. Saul responded, Who is this. How do
you know my name? Why do you know my name? The voice allegedly responded, I am
Jesus. Why are you bothering my believers? Then Saul became Paul and Christianity
became as it is today. Paul is the founder of the Christian religion.

These are amongst Iblees tactics. He repeats them throughout time and from them many
false prophets and sects have been introduced. May Allaah protect us from the plan
of the wrongdoers-Ameen.

After Allaah magnifies and informs us of the blessings of this night, he continues to
describe what happens during this night in the following verses:

. 3=9 _9 ! |, h, i e. 9 = . >
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4. Therein descend the angels and the Rh [Jibrael (Gabriel)] by Allh's
permission with All Decrees 5. Peace! (all that night, there is peace and
goodness from Allh to his believing slaves) until the appearance of dawn.
163
Allaah mentions the angels descending onto earth and increasing the blessings of that
night. Although Jibreel is an angel, he is mentioned separately because he has attained a lofty
status. This is not to suggest that he is as the Christians describe him, as a part of a trinity
sharing Allaah s divinity, (and we seek refuge with Allaah from what they have
fabricated). The Ruh is the angel Jibreel. He worships and obeys Allaah as the other
angels do and he is one of the best amongst them.
Allaah also blesses this night by providing peace and tranquility from the night to the
morning. Indeed the night of Qadr is powerful and magnificent in its blessings and events. On
such a night a believer should do their very best to worship Allaah and take full
advantage. Usually during the night in which people suspect is the night of Qadr, the mosques
are packed. However, it is important to remain focused on your goal of attaining the pleasure of
Allaah and not to get carried away with friends and food at the mosque. It should not be
treated as a night of celebration, but as a night of sincere and focused devotion. May Allaah
allow us to witness this night and accept from us our righteous deeds ameen.
A'isha asked regarding this night, "O Messenger of Allaah! If I find the Night of Al-Qadr what
should I say'' He replied,
, `,`, :` , '.-` , `.` `
Say: "O Allaah! Verily, You are the Oft-Pardoning, You love to pardon, so
pardon me.''
[At-Tirmidhi & An-Nasa'i]

Fact: Allaah sent the final revelation for humanity down to the final prophet and
messenger .
Command: Believe in Qada & Qadr
Fact: the virtue of the night of decree and worship in it
Fact: the revelation of Quraan is in 2 stages
Fact: This night is during the odd nights of the last 10 nights of Ramadan.
Command: strive for it and during it.
Fact: During Ramadan we should give the Quraan special attention just as the prophet
and Jibreel did.
164
165
Touched by an Angel Chapter 20: Surah al-Burooj - 85

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The Stars

There are different narrations that explain why this chapter was revealed. Amongst these is
that the king of Persia wanted to marry his own sister. The law at the time did not allow for this.
Many people stood in his way. Then the king set up a blazing ditch that would burn anyone who
objects to his incestuous relationship.

Another narration refers to the children of Bani Israel. At the time, they were being persecuted.
A large pit of fire was set up. The people were told to either commit kufr (disbelieve in their
religion) or be thrown into the blistery fire. Many of them chose to lose their life rather than
leave their faith.

A third narration takes place in Yemen. A king, who claimed to be god, had a magician perform
tricks and aid him in subjugating his people. The sorcerer was becoming old and needed a
successor. A competition that had taken place revealed that there was a young gifted boy in
their midst. They thought he would be a prime candidate and began to train him to be the
kings future magician. Every day the boy would walk from his village to the Kings palace to
learn from the sorcerer. One day as he was on his way to the king, he found a monk on his path.
He asked the monk what are you doing? The monk explained some of his religion and that he
was worshiping the one true God. After realizing where the boy was going, the monk asked the
boy not to tell anyone at the palace about what he learned, since the King claimed to be god.

From then on every time the boy went to visit the sorcerer, he would stop by the monk and
study with him for a little while then continue on his path. Thus, the boy was learning from both
the monk and the sorcerer. After some time he realized that, their philosophies were
contradictory. He then made duaa to Allaah to make the truth clear. The boy was
looking for some sort of sign from Allaah . As he was walking, he found a huge beast
standing in his path, intimidating, and threatening the people. He picked up a stone and said
Oh Allaah if the teachings of that old man (the monk) are true then let this stone kill
that animal. He said bismillah and threw the stone, which killed the beast.

If such a thing were to occur today perhaps, people may have considered it a mere coincidence
or would have found some other way of rationalizing it. Often the signs are right in front of us
and we ignore them, the boy however found this to be a clear response to his supplication. The
166

boy then went to the sorcerer and said he no longer wanted to learn sorcery. He was beaten
and the monk was found, captured, and killed.

The Kings men continued to batter the boy, insisting that he continue his lessons with the
sorcerer, but he refused and so they resolved to execute him. Allaah increased the boys
Imaan and placed in him great blessings so that he becomes a sign for all the people. Every time
they would try to kill this boy, Allaah would save him. Finally, after they had exhausted
much effort the boy asked, do you want to kill me? Of course we do, they responded. The
boy then instructed them to gather the people altogether and to say bismillah in the name of
the God of this boy while shooting an arrow at him, then he will die. The kings men did as they
were told an in front of a large audience the boy died in the name of Allaah . The people
immediately took this as their sign. They rejected the idea that the king is a god, and professed
that their Lord is Allaah . This infuriated the king. He therefore had a ditch built and set it
on fire to burn all the people who rejected the king as god.

Hence this chapter recounts the suffering that the believers in Allaah who came before
the Prophet had endured with patience. Allaah illustrates the enormity of their
oppression in the following verses:

167
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1 .=-|| ==| | _ + .,|,| =. _| _ 5 , ., _
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=,, | ,- 16 ., | .,=- =| _ 17 ., .,- _
18 _ ,=| , _ .,= 19 =,- ,,_ - -| _
?0 `=,- .| , , _ ?1 =,- _,| _ _ ?? _

168

By the heaven, holding the big stars (1) And by the Promised Day (i.e. the Day of
Resurrection); (2) And by the witnessing day (i.e. Friday), and by the witnessed day
[i.e. the day of 'Araft (Hajj) the ninth of DhulHjjah]; (3) Cursed were the people
of the Ditch (in the story of the Boy and the King). (4) Of fire fed with fuel, (5)
When they sat by it (fire), (6) And they witnessed what they were doing against the
believers (i.e. burning them). (7) And they had no fault except that they believed in
Allh, the AllMighty, Worthy of all Praise! (8) To Whom belongs the dominion of
the heavens and the earth! And Allh is Witness over everything. (9) Verily, those
who put into trial the believing men and believing women (by torturing them and
burning them), and then do not turn in repentance, (to Allh), then they will have
the torment of Hell, and they will have the punishment of the burning Fire. (10)
Verily, those who believe and do righteous good deeds, for them will be Gardens
under which rivers flow (Paradise). That is the great success. (11) Verily, (O
Muhammad ) the Seizure (Punishment) of your Lord is severe and painful. (See
V.11:102) (12) Verily, He it is Who begins (punishment) and repeats (punishment in
the Hereafter) (or originates the creation of everything, and then repeats it on the
Day of Resurrection). (13) And He is OftForgiving, full of love (towards the pious
who are real true believers of Islmic Monotheism), (14) Owner of the throne, the
Glorious. (15) (He is the) Doer of whatsoever He intends (or wills). (16) Has the
story reached you of the hosts, (17) Of Fir'aun (Pharaoh) and Thamd? (18) Nay!
The disbelievers (persisted) in denying (Prophet Muhammad and his Message
of Islmic Monotheism). (19) And Allh encompasses them from behind! (i.e. all
their deeds are within His Knowledge, and He will requite them for their deeds).
(20) Nay! This is a Glorious Qur'n, (21) (Inscribed) in AlLauh AlMahfz (The
Preserved Tablet)! (22)

169

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1. By the heaven, holding the big stars. 2. And by the promised Day (i.e. the
Day of Resurrection) 3. And by the witnessing Day (i.e. Friday), and by the
witnessed Day [i.e. the Day of 'Araft (Hajj) the ninth of Dhul-Hjjah]

In these verses Allaah swears by the sky. This is meant to include everything outside of
the earth and beyond the known constellations. In essence Allaah is swearing by
something so great; He is swearing by the universe as a whole. In the second verse he further
draws our attention by swearing again this time by the promised day, the Day of Judgment. In
the third verse Allaah continues to swear by . This refers to the best day of the
week, Jumua (Friday). It is not merely the day of the week were many people take part in the
ritual attendance of a brief lecture and leave their attention with their shoes at the door, but
the great act of worship and devotion that is called for on Fridays. (Mash-hood), refers to
the best day of the year (the day of Arafaat). The words $ (wa shahidin wa mash-
hood) bear a special relationship to each other. $ describes the one that is performing the
verb and the other is the thing that the action is done upon, the adverb. Hence, within
this verse Allaah is swearing additionally by everything that is witnessed and by those
who witness it.

Allaah swore five consecutive times by some of the most tremendous entities. This
illustrates the enormity and provides certainty for that, which Allaah is swearing for in
the next verse:
170

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Cursed were the people of the ditch (the story of the boy and the King). 5. Fire
supplied (abundantly) with fuel, 6. When they sat by it (Fire), 7. And they
witnessed what they were doing against the believers (i.e. burning them) 8.
they had nothing against them, except that they believed In Allh, the All-
Mighty, Worthy of All Praise! 9. Who, to whom belongs the dominion of the
heavens and the earth! And Allh is witness over everything.

In these verses, Allaah tells us that those who built and facilitated the suffering of the
believers in the ditch are cursed. As for those who were burned, they are martyrs. Then Allaah
describes the ditch and the blazing fire that was kindled with fuel and innocent people.
The evildoers sought to make it strong and fierce, there was nothing left behind from these
people except dust. No Muslim should like or support any one who commits such evil. Here
again we see how Iblees uses the same scheme to instigate evil actions throughout history.
Hitler facilitated for a suffering similar to the people of the ditch and no one should have any
inclination towards him or his actions in their heart or profess it with their tongue.

Concerning verse number six there are two explanations. The first is that the people being
burnt were unable to move, they could only sit in the fire. The other notes that this verse is
more likely to be referring to the people who facilitated the burning and then sat back and
watched. This latter explanation is stronger because of the verse following it which indicates
that the people who were sitting are disbelievers as they observed the burning of the people as
if it was a form of entertainment.

The only reason these people were burned is because they believed in Allaah All three of
the narrations mentioned previously involved people who insisted that there is no God worthy
of worship but Allaah (la illaha illa Allaah). To burn someone to death is very grave
171

indeed. To kill or hurt a person especially a believer is indeed a great evil. At the time of Ali,
some of the people referred to him as Al-Ali (the most high). They had apostated from Islam.
When Ali heard this, he told his servants to light a fire to burn the people who say this alive.
Even as these people were in the fire they said, Only Allaah punishes with fire.

Ibn Abbas advised him not to do this because during the lifetime of the Prophet
he had sent an army brigade on a mission ordering them to burn someone, then he later
retracted the request and said:

_ ,,' .' ,,- , . ., _ . ., . = . ., ,-, ,
"I have ordered you to burn so-and-so and so-and-so, and it is none but Allaah Who
punishes with fire, so, if you find them, kill them."
[Bukhaari]

Allaah was aware of the suffering of all of these people as He was aware of Quraysh
mistreating the Muslims. This chapter was revealed during the years of grief when Quraysh had
imposed a severe boycott on the prophet and his companions. No one was to
communicate with them in any way. No one was to marry, sell, provide them with food,
supplies, or interact with them. A treaty was placed on the kaba to inform all the people that
anyone who would dare jeopardize this boycott would suffer. Three families (may Allaah
bless them), secretly supported the Prophet . When this was known they were all
banished to a place in the desert. The prophet and his companions could not find
anything to eat. The companions said, they never experienced a hardship as great as this
boycott. They were eating bark from shrubs and leaves from trees to sustain themselves. A man
who went to urine heard a sound that was unfamiliar to him. He looked down, saw the carcass
of an animal, and was very grateful. The people boiled it and ate it. This is how severe their
condition was. This boycott did not last for three days, or three weeks, or three months, but for
three years; the believers patiently suffered. It was like genocide toward the Muslims.

Hence, Allaah revealed this chapter to tell the believers to be patient. Despite the
torture that the people of the ditch endured, they did not turn their back in the least. They
continued to believe even when they saw a painful death in front of them. This chapter also
serves as a warning to Quraysh who were harsher in their aggression.

172

C CC Cursed is the Tyranny That Did This ursed is the Tyranny That Did This ursed is the Tyranny That Did This ursed is the Tyranny That Did This

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10. Verily, those who put into trial the believing men and believing women
(by torturing them and burning them), and Then do not turn In repentance, (to
Allh), will have the torment of Hell, and they will have the punishment of the
burning Fire.

Allaah is giving a clear warning to Quraysh, that they must repent or pay a great
recompensation as the evil doers before them have. Allaah is also calling them to repent
at the same time. He tells them, they have placed a fitnah on the believers. The word fitnah has
several meanings, however in this verse it takes on the general meaning, to put into trial, this
would include the people who have been harassed, slandered, starved, and put through other
turmoil. This shows how great Allaah s mercy is. Even though the people of Quraysh
have committed great evil and placed a massive trial upon the Muslims and upon those who
are the most righteous to Allaah he still would forgive them, if they were sincere in their
repentance.

This is very deep. Allaah is leaving the door of repentance open for some of the most
prominent evil doers, what about for the believer who has transgressed?

. `` _`,`_ ,`'`, ., ,-', .`,`, ,``- ,` `, ,
`'`,, _`,`_ . ``, .,`,

"O my sons! go ye and enquire about Joseph and his brother, and never give
up hope of Allaah's Soothing Mercy: truly no one despairs of Allaah's
Soothing Mercy, except those who have no faith."
[Yusuf: 87]

173

Allaah is the most merciful and we are always asking Allaah to show us His
mercy and forgive us of our sins, yet many times we refuse to forgive others. In fact, some
people may even go beyond this, take the law into their own hands, and make judgments
themselves, i.e. Honor Killings. Muslims should not be happy to catch others in a sin and feel
enthusiastic about taking the law into their own hands.

In the life of the prophet , there were two cases where people confessed to Prophet
Muhammad that they committed zina (fornication). In both cases the prophet did
not wish to lay upon them the punishment for this sin, so he encouraged them to leave, but
because they could not live with what they did, they insisted on paying for it in this world than
in the hereafter

In the first case Maiz ibn Maalik confessed to this sin and the Prophet turned him away.
Again. Maiz returned and asked the Prophet to purify him. The Prophet asked if
he was drunk. When he stated the third time, the Prophet asked him if he had lost his
mind.

In the second case a girl confessed to this sin and found out that she was pregnant. The Prophet
told her to wait for the birth of the baby. Nine months later, the woman presented
herself to the Prophet with her baby. He instructed her to finish nursing the baby. During
this time, none of the companions made her life difficult.

The families of these people did not excommunicate them, and they did not perform any honor
killings. Allaah s mercy is such that we need to learn from it. Allaah accepts the
repentance of those who commit even the greatest of sins as long as they are sincere in their
regret and desire to repent. We want Allaah to accept our repentance but when it
comes to each other, we can't accept it.

Blessed are the Patient Ones Blessed are the Patient Ones Blessed are the Patient Ones Blessed are the Patient Ones

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174

11. Verily, those who believe and do righteous good deeds, for them will be
Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise). that is the great success.

Allaah is promising Gardens under which rivers flow, but this reward is not for free.
Jannah is entered by a persons Imaan, righteous deeds, and then you place yourself under
Allaah s Mercy. Belief is not enough on its own. Sincere belief necessitates complete
submission to the commands and legislation of Allaah . Your good heart needs to be
followed by good deeds.

It is interesting to note the juxtaposition of hell and paradise in verses 10 and 11. After Allaah
had mentioned the promise and end of the disbelievers, He mentions the final abode of
the believer's. Allaah does this throughout the Quraan. He mentions the opposites
directly one after another to make things clearer and differences more astounding.

Allaahs Power to Avenge Allaahs Power to Avenge Allaahs Power to Avenge Allaahs Power to Avenge

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12. Verily, (O Muhammad the Grip (punishment) of Your Lord is severe.
13. Verily, He it is who begins (punishment) and repeats (punishment In the
Hereafter) (or originates the creation of everything, and Then repeats it on the
Day of Resurrection) 14. and He is Oft-Forgiving, full of love (towards the
pious who are real true believers of Islmic Monotheism) 15. Owner of the
Throne, the Glorious 16. He does what He intends (or wills).

Allaah tells us that His punishment is severe. This is yet another warning to Quraysh.
Essentially, if Quraysh continues in their punishment (=-) of the believing men and women,
then they should be aware that Allaah s (=-) punishment is very severe.

After recounting the patience exerted by believers during dreadful times, warning the Quraysh
of their punishment, and assuring the believers of the reward ahead of them Allaah tells
the prophet Muhammad that He is there for them. Allaah also provides
175

them with a reminder of his attributes. Allaah says that He is the originator and he is the
reproducer. He is the one who causes things to happen and causes them to repeat just as He
created us and will resurrect us on the Day of Judgment. This is a type of (tarheeb)
causing us to fear Allaah In the verse that follows Allaah says He is Oft-Forgiving
and He is (Al-Wadood), meaning the Most Loved by His believing servants; there is no
competition in their hearts. also means He is the Most Loving. This provides the believer
with a sense of hope (targheeb).

Allaah then describes the greatness of His throne.

, , . - ,- .,' , ,,~ _.
Abu Dhar said that he heard Prophet Muhammad say: The Kursi compared to the
Throne is nothing but like a ring of iron thrown in a vast desert
[Kitab At-Tawhid chapter 67]

Indeed Allaah s throne is magnificent, above all creation, and glorious. It is so dense
that it causes light rays to bend.

Then Allaah uses the word $. Here the verb is in the superlative to show that nothing
can ever match Allaah in what He wants and can do.

One of the duas the Prophet would say is:

.- = -, . - ._, _, , ,

None has the right to be worshiped but Allaah alone, Who has no partner. His is the
dominion and His is the praise and He is Able to do all things

176

The Example of Firown and Thamud The Example of Firown and Thamud The Example of Firown and Thamud The Example of Firown and Thamud

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17. has the story reached You of the hosts 18. of Fir'aun (Pharaoh) and
Thamd? 19. Nay! the disbelievers (persisted) In denying (Prophet
Muhammad and his message of Islmic Monotheism). 20. and Allh
encompasses them from behind! (i.e. All their deeds are within his knowledge,
and He will requite them for their deeds). 21. Nay! This is a Glorious Qur'n,
22. (Inscribed) In Al-Lauh Al-Mahfz (the preserved Tablet)!

Allaah once again brings attention to the plight of transgressors from the past. These
past stories have lessons and morals in them that we should study, as Allaah says

`. . `,`, .,`,, .
So relate the story; perchance they may reflect.
[Al-Araaf:176]

The Quraysh knew of the stories of ,= (firawn) and ,-` (thamud), yet they were in a state of
denial, rejecting the clear truth. They are in a state of -,-- (takdheeb). Allaah is fully
aware of this and they will not be able to feign ignorance before Allaah . The insincerity
of the people who deny the truth of Islam is similar to a person who holds a clearly poisonous
bottle and tries to convince himself that it is not poison.

177

QURA QURA QURA QURANIC GEMS NIC GEMS NIC GEMS NIC GEMS

Warning: Allah cursed the disbelievers of the Trench
Fact: the day of Jummah and Arafah are blessed
Command: Believers be patient in your suffering and your reward will be Jannah.
Warning: disbelievers who abuse and harm the believers beware of Hell
Command: become a believer instead, save yourself.
Fact: those who believe and back it up with good deeds shall be rewarded with the biggest
present and reward.
Fact: Allah 's punishment is the worst
Fact: Allah forgives and is Loving
Fact: Allah can do what He chooses, His will is absolutely
Command: return to Allah seeking His forgiveness and love.
Command: learn from the stories in the Quran.
Beware: Allah is All-Powerful and Capable, so be cautious.
Fact: Allah praises the Quran and affirms the main record book in Jannah (Al-
Lawh Al-Mahfuz).

178
179

`| _,= _

.,,| _ | 1 _,= _,| _ ? _-|| =,| = _ 1 =| _
,, .-| _ ..,| - + _= =| .._ , _ 5 |, _
.,- ,- `-| ,, =|=| ,- ,- ,=| 6 c,=, _
,`=|, =-, 7 _| ,-|, -| ,|| _ 8 _

By the fig, and the olive, (1) By Mount Sinai, (2) By this city of security (Makkah) ,
(3) Verily, We created man in the best stature (mould), (4) Then We reduced him to
the lowest of the low, (5) Save those who believe (in Islmic Monotheism) and do
righteous deeds, Then they shall have a reward without end (Paradise). (6) Then
what (or who) causes you (O disbelievers) to deny the Recompense (i.e. Day of
Resurrection)? (7) Is not Allh the Best of judges? (8)

180
Touched by an Angel Chapter 21: Surah at-Teen - 95
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The Fig

The sacredness of the Holy Lands The sacredness of the Holy Lands The sacredness of the Holy Lands The sacredness of the Holy Lands
.,,| _`| - _,= _,| - _-v =,| =.
1.By the fig, and the olive, 2. By Mount Sinai, 3. By this city of security
(Makkah)
As Allah has done in many surahs in Juz Amma, he begins this surah by making oaths. First
Allah swears by the fig and the olive, hence two fruits. These are fruits which contain
benefit, such as the oils they produce.

Then Allah swears by the Mount Sinai. It is a special place because this was where Allah
communicated with Musa . It was where Musa saw the burning tree or bush
from afar ,and he said to his family that he would go and bring back a branch that they can use
to make their own fire.

The fourth oath refers to the city of Makkah. It is known form the history and Quran that
whoever enters into this city, enter into peace and security. It was even respected in Jahiliyyah
so much so that if someone wanted revenge on another person, they would not take that
persons life in Makkah.

Another interpretation of these ayaat states that each oath refers to a particular prophet. It has
been mentioned that Allah is referring to Isa when He speaks about the fig and
the olive because they are fruits of Jerusalem, while Mount Sinai refers to Musa and
the city of security, Makkah, refers to Muhammad .

,, .-| _ .., - =| - _.= =| -..._ ,
4. Verily, We created man in the best stature (mould), 5. Then We reduced
him to the lowest of the low,
181
When Allah created us, the mould that He used, the design is ahsan which is the best. If we say
hasan jamil (beautiful, good), Allah is telling us not only did He create us in a form or fashion
that is good, but that we are actually the most beautiful and the best. The way Allah created us
is intentional by design. This is in regards to the physical creation and the spiritual side as well.
A well maintained man, well built, and well proportioned, is truly a wonderful thing; the same
applies for sisters too. However, if you want to talk about just the physical there are many of
Allahs creation that can outdo us, our spirituality and faith really enhances our outer form. In
Jannah, Allah will bring us back at our prime of 30 years old which is going to be perfection
regarding the way Allah wanted us to be.

There is going to come a time when we will return to the humblest of our existence, the lowest
of the low. One of the meanings that this carries is the natural state of growing older. After
reaching our peak we begin our decline, until some people cannot even feed themselves, cloth
themselves, or control their bodily functions. This is why we see a significant number of nursing
homes. The sad part is that family members are too busy to care for their relatives who are
older. The second meaning is referring to the kuffar that Allah will humiliate them by returning
them to the lowest of the low. This is because anything and everything is a game for them,
since they are not concerned with their akhira. They dont always care for ethics, morality,
virtues, etc, since they are only living for dunya with no regards for deen.

Except Who? Except Who? Except Who? Except Who?

.,- ,- `-| ,, ...=| ,- ,- ,=| v,
6. Save those who believe (in Islmic Monotheism) and do righteous deeds,
Then they shall have a reward without end (Paradise).

The sense of being debased, morally and religiously corrupt is definitely included in the
definition of the previous ayah. However, Allah is going to exclude those who believe and do
righteous deeds from his punishment, protecting them even in the physical state to honor
them. Allah protects His true believers from suffering disease in old age as well. It is indeed an
honor for the believers from Allah .

Open Your Eyes! Open Your Eyes! Open Your Eyes! Open Your Eyes!

,`=|, =-, c,=, - _.| ,-|, -| ,||

182
7. Then what (or who) causes you (O disbelievers) to deny the Recompense
(i.e. Day of Resurrection)? 8. Is not Allh the Best of judges?

Allah is asking, so what is it that causes you to reject and disbelieve in the truth of Islam
after you have seen all of these proofs, signs, etc? We know there are tests in life (fitnah) along
with groups of people, who will tempt you to reject Islam. They will come to you with
conflicting thoughts and desires along with Shaytan, who will come to you from the front, back,
right, and the left! However, none of these things should ever cause us to go astray. There is
not even one good thing in this dunya, except that it reminds us of the eternal pleasures of
Jannah and there is not a pain or evil thing, except that it reminds us of the eternal punishment
and humiliation of Jahannam. We must make sure we align things with what is correct
Islamically.

Allah ends the Surah with a question, is Allah not the Best of judges? To answer a
question that starts with laysa; the affirmative answer will start with ballah and the negative
will be Naam. Obviously we know Allah is the best of all judges so we must do well in this
dunya to attain Jannah.


Fact: Allah swears by three sacred sites and their Prophets.
Fact: Allah has created us in the most beautiful and attractive shape and form.
Beware: Dont fall for yourself.
Fact: Life is in stages.
Beware: Hell anxiously awaits all that earn it.
Fact: To be saved one must believe correctly and live righteously.
Command: Save yourself.
Beware: External factors strive to make us disbelieve.
Fact: False perceptions dont change reality.
Command: Allah is asking a question. Whats the answer?
183
184
Touched by an Angel Chapter 22: Surah Quraish - 106

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Quraish

Allah addresses the Quraish, telling them of the blessings he has bestowed on them. He
elevated their status so they could travel freely, without fear and he provided them with food,
in the midst of the burning heat of the desert. Allah mentions these blessings so that
they may learn to be grateful and turn to Tawheed.
185

| _,= ,

,| =,,| 1 .,=| `=| --_ ,,,, _ ? =_ =,-, _
.,,| = 1 =,- - ,,- g,- - ,,-|| =| _ + _

(It is a great Grace and protection from Allh), for the taming of the Quraish, (1)
(And with all those Allh's Grace and Protections for their taming, We cause) the
(Quraish) caravans to set forth safe in winter (to the south), and in summer (to the
north without any fear), (2) So let them worship (Allh) the Lord of this House (the
Ka'bah in Makkah). (3) (He) Who has fed them against hunger, and has made them
safe from fear. (4)

186
ft{ dt|{
The favor of Allah upon us The favor of Allah upon us The favor of Allah upon us The favor of Allah upon us
,| ..,, - .,=| \`=| --_ ,,.,,
1. (It is a great Grace and protection from Allh), for the taming of the Quraish,
2. (And with all those Allh's Grace and Protections for their taming, We
cause) the (Quraish) caravans to set forth safe in winter (to the south), and in
summer (to the north without any fear)

Li eela is harf ul-jar; this ayah is telling the Quraish the kind of preference they have been given
over others. Allah protected them from Abraha and his army, who were coming to destroy the
Kabah. Since Allah blessed them that they were able to continue in their livelihood, for
example their caravans with which they used to travel. The Quraish were the caretakers of the
Kabah which is a great responsibility. Ibn Jarir said, "The correct opinion is that the letter Lam is
a prefix that shows amazement. It is as though Allah is saying, you should be amazed at
the uniting (or taming) of the Quraysh and My favor upon them in that.''' He went on to say,
"This is due to the consensus of the Muslims that they are two separate and independent
Surahs.''

It has also been said that the meaning of this (Ilaf) is what they would gather during their
journey in the winter to Yemen and in the summer to Ash-Sham, through trade and other than
that. Then they would return to their city in safety during their journeys due to the respect that
the people had for them because they were the residents of Allah 's sanctuary.
Therefore, whoever knew them would honor them. Quraish was able to travel freely without
being harassed or bothered during their travels because of their status. Even those who came
to them and traveled with them would be safe because of them. This was their situation during
their journeys and travels during their winter and summer. Why are only two seasons
mentioned (winter and summer), arent there four seasons in the year? In the desert, there are
only two seasons, they dont really have a spring or fall. The Quraish could travel to the south
of Yemen during the winter and north in the territory of Syria and Jordan during the summer.
Allah mentions the blessings from Him to Quraish, since Allah honored them
above all of the Arabs and their tribes. Imagine living between so many gangs and being able to
walk through them all without encountering issues. The Quraish were untouchable. Allah
is further telling them why they must have Tawhid.
187
.,,| =. =_ =,-, - = ,- `- ,,- g,- `- ,,-|| ;=|
3. So let them worship (Allh) the Lord of this House (the Ka'bah in Makkah).
4. (He) Who has fed them against hunger, and has made them safe from fear.

Allah is their Rabb and provider and yet they do not obey him. They take care of the
Kabah, consider themselves guardians over it, but they forget the source of all their blessings.
They need to recognize that these blessings are from Allah and worship him as one lord.
True belief necessitates that they stop committing shirk and establish tawheed al-Ulooheeyah.

Then Allah directs them to be grateful for his magnificent favor upon them for, He
favored them with safety and gentleness, so they should single Him out for worship alone,
without any partner. They should not worship any idol, rival or statue besides Him. Therefore,
whoever accepts this command; Allah will give him safety in both this life and the
Hereafter. However, whoever disobeys Him will have these blessings taken away.
Allah mentions again after all of this, that He is the one who saved them from hunger and
starvation. When we consider the desert we realize the value of what Ibrahim said
when he left Hajar there, My Lord I have left my family and my offspring in this valley
that has no vegetation in it." Allah has answered Ibrahims duaa and it was from that
point on that Allah has consistently provided for the people of that area. We dont realize the
value or appreciate what it means to live in an area that is not fertile. However, the Quraish
were being provided with abundant provisions from Allah . This all happened because of
Allahs mercy and blessings upon them, yet they were ungrateful.

Fact: Allah expresses to the Quraish His favoring them above others such that they
should be thankful and grateful to Allah, and the consequences of being an ingrate.
Command: Worship Allah only.
Command: Be sincerely thankful to Allah for His priceless blessings; thankfulness
expressed in its fullest form.
Fact: The 2 main qualities that any successful government or country strives for are:
quality of living and safety. Allah had blessed Quraish with both of them and reminds
them of it.
Command: Fulfill Islams teachings sincerely and youll achieve these too.
188
189
Touched by an Angel Chapter 23: Surah al-Humaza - 104

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t@[tt{

The Slanderer

In the time of the Prophet the hypocrites accused his wife, Aisha (ra) of committing
adultery. Although, she was innocent, and her innocence was later proven through revelation,
the slander hurt both her and Rasulallah . In this surah Allah warns of the evil of
backbiting and slandering, and of the punishment that awaits those who involve themselves in
it.
190

_,=

| | , 1 .=- |- _- =| _ ? .| .., _
=-| -|- 1 _ -=| _ .=,,| + | - =_.| - _ -=
5 =|,| -| _ _ 6 =|| _- _= _| _ 7 ,, ,- ,, _
==- 8 .= - =- _ _ 9 _

Woe to every slanderer and backbiter. (1) Who has gathered wealth and counted it,
(2) He thinks that his wealth will make him last forever! (3) Nay! Verily, he will be
thrown into the crushing Fire (4) And what will make you know what the crushing
Fire is? (5) The fire of Allh, kindled, (6) Which leaps up over the hearts, (7) Verily,
it shall be closed upon them, (8) In pillars stretched forth (i.e. they will be punished
in the Fire with pillars). (9)
191
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The Slanderer
The Mocking T The Mocking T The Mocking T The Mocking Tongue ongue ongue ongue
| | ,
1.Woe to every slanderer and backbiter.

Wayl is a place in Jahannam, where a river flows from the puss of the wounds of the people.
The word serves as a warning and a curse for whatever follows it; it is a curse of destruction. Kul
is an all inclusive word; and here it includes all those who possess the two qualities, Humuzah
and Lumuzah. According to the first tafsir by Ibn Abbas : Humuzah is a slanderer, one
that says things that are not true or are true in order to cause fitnah between people.
Whereas, Lumazah is the one who only finds faults in people, organizations, etc

The second tafsir states that Humuzah is the one who backbites, or in Arabic one who commits
ghiba. When Rasulallah was asked what the meaning of this was he said, That you
mention your brother or sister in a way that they would not like. What if there is a truth in
what hes saying? (i.e. that its something thats true.) The Prophet replied, If its true
its still ghiba but if its not its even worse. The punishment in the akhira for the person that
commits ghibah is that they literally become a cannibal and are forced to eat human flesh.

Allah says in the Quraan:

,- ,=| ,,|, v `,, `=| -, ., `=| `- _ ,,-
,- -,-| ,| |, .| ,=-| .,| =-, ,=-, .-, v ,..
`,,-_ `=, -| ., -| , ,
O you who believe! Avoid much suspicion, indeed some suspicions are sins.
And spy not, neither backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the
flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it (so hate backbiting). And fear
192
Allah. Verily, Allah is the One Who forgives and accepts repentance, Most
Merciful.
[Al-Hujuraat: 12]

On the day of Judgement, Allah will take the good deeds of people who committed
ghiba and give them to those whom they spoke about. If in this process, they run out of good
deeds, they will then receive the sins of the other person to compensate. Al Lumazah, the
person that purposely goes around causing problems and abusing people verbally will not enter
Jannah.

The last interpretation refers to the person who says or does things that put himself in the
position of subjugation and ill treatment. This includes people who put themselves in a
situation that will make others want to talk about them due to heedlessness or ignorance.

T TT The worship of wealth he worship of wealth he worship of wealth he worship of wealth
.=- v- _- ;=| - =-| -|- .| ..,
2. Who has gathered wealth and counted it 3. He thinks that his wealth will
make him last forever!
In these ayaat, Allah describes the characteristics of the people, who slander and
backbite. In addition to possessing the traits mentioned in the first verse, they count their
money, are preoccupied with materialism, and thus, are only concerned with the dunya. The
money they have amassed gives them a sense of invincibility. They do not fear death, nor do
they care about deen. Allah follows the description of these people with a description of
the torment that awaits them.

The Torment That Awaits The Torment That Awaits The Torment That Awaits The Torment That Awaits
-=| _ .=,,| : - -=| - =_.| \- - =|,| -| _ -
=v _- _= _| - ==- ,,,- ,, - .=- =- _
193
4.Nay! Verily, he will be thrown into the crushing Fire 5. And what will make
you know what the crushing Fire is? 6. The fire of Allh, kindled, 7. Which
leaps up over the hearts, 8. Verily, it shall be closed upon them, 9. In pillars
stretched forth (i.e. they will be punished in the Fire with pillars).

Here, Allah is allowing us to visualize the severity of the fire of Hell. Al Hutamah is one of
the names of Jahannam; it is so severe and intense that it crushes you. Of its characteristics are
that it crushes, crunches, and chops. This gives a frightening image of Jahannam. Imagine a fire
with the ability to chop and crush; a punishment that will be repeated over and over again,
without even the inevitability of death.

It is the hell that Allah has created and that will be ignited. The fire and flames will
punish a person externally while internally affecting their hearts. The heart and soul will be
punished because these are the faculties used for decision making. They will be sealed in
forever and will not be allowed to escape. Many think theyre tough and can handle pain and
dont think anything of it when disobeying Allah . However, if they were to merely take a
match and place it under their hand until the fire ignites, they would not be able to handle it.
Jahannam is much more severe and so Allah shatters the false perception of those who
think they are invincible with a glimpse of the intensity of the fire of Hell.


Beware: of the backbiter and slander.
Fact: Allah despises these 2 faulty traits (humaza and lumaza)
Fact: Sins perpetuate sins.
Beware: Dont be deluded by the life of this world and its attractions i.e wealth.
Beware: Wealth cannot help in the court of Allah .
Beware: Disbelief is punished in Hell.
Beware: Sinning is punishable in Hell.
Fact: Declaration of Hells severity and intensity.
Command: Save yourself before its too late.
194
195
=,| _,=

=,| =,, ,.|| | 1 =,| =,, - .| _ ? =| - =| _
1 =, _ ..,| - =| _ + -,- _=, | .| ..,| _ `=-|
5 =,| |- .| ,,, _ 6 `=-| , ,| .| ..,| _ 7 ,|| _
,,- -| - 8 ,= .| _ 9 ,=| ,= _ 10 _
-,-| ,| 11 -,-| - =_.| - _ 1? _ -,|_ c 11 _
-,-.- . ;,, _ `;-|, | 1+ -,- . ,, _ 15 ,.- | _
-,- . 16 ,=, ,=|, ,=, ,- ,=| - . , _
--|, 17 ,| ==| c|| _ - 18 ,\, ,=| _
--|=| ==| , 19 ==- `_ ,,,- _ ?0 _

I swear by this city (Makkah); (1) And you are free (from sin and to punish the
enemies of Islm on the Day of the conquest) in this city (Makkah) , (2) And by the
begetter (i.e. Adam A.S.) and that which he begot (i.e. his progeny); (3) Verily, We
have created man in toil. (4) Does he think that none can overcome him? (5) He says
(boastfully): "I have wasted wealth in abundance!" (6) Does he think that none sees
196
him? (7) Have We not made for him a pair of eyes? (8) And a tongue and a pair of
lips? (9) And shown him the two ways (good and evil)? (10) But he has not attempted
to pass on the path that is steep (i.e. the path which will lead to goodness and
success). (11) And what will make you know the path that is steep? (12) (It is) Freeing
a neck (slave) (13) Or giving food in a day of hunger (famine), (14) To an orphan
near of kin. (15) Or to a Miskn (poor) cleaving to dust (out of misery). (16) Then he
became one of those who believed, (in the Islamic Monothsim) and recommended
one another to perseverance and patience, and (also) recommended one another to
pity and compassion. (17) They are those on the Right Hand (i.e. the dwellers of
Paradise), (18) But those who disbelieved in Our Ayt (proofs, evidences, verses,
lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), they are those on the Left Hand (the dwellers of
Hell) (19) The Fire will be shut over them (i.e. they will be enveloped by the Fire
without any opening or window or outlet. (20)

197
Touched by an Angel Chapter 24: Surah al-Balad - 90
ft{ t@Uttw
The City
Humans and the pain of earthly life Humans and the pain of earthly life Humans and the pain of earthly life Humans and the pain of earthly life
=,| =.,, ,.|| v - =,| =.,, - .|
1.I swear by this city (Makkah); 2. And you are free (from sin and to punish the
enemies of Islm on the Day of the conquest) in this city (Makkah)
La is used as a form of negation but is separate from the oath by the city. Allah swears
by Makkah, which is a very important city and Allah s oath is not like the oath of man. In
some cultures people swear by his name unnecessarily, by saying wallahi all the time. This is
not a correct practice for we are commanded to fulfill our oaths, and we should not use Allah
s name lightly in speech.

"Hil" shows the special significance of the city of Makkah. It is the city of the birth of the
Prophet . Allah warns of a severe punishment to those who do wrong or commit sins in
this city. To preserve the sanctity of Makkah many things are made forbidden for this city in
particular, such as fighting and invading. Only RasulAllah was permitted to invade it
during the Conquest of Makkah. Of the blessings of this city is that one prayer in Makkah is
worth 100,000 salawat anywhere else. This is also true for Masjid al Aqsa in Jerusalem and
Masjid An-Nabawi in Madinah.
=| =| - - =, _ .., - =|
3. And by the begetter (i.e. Adam ) and that which he begot (i.e. his
progeny); 4. Verily, We have created man in toil.

Allah swears again, this time by the begetter. Walad can mean either male or female; it is
referring first to Adam and Hawa and then the rest of Banu Adam. Allah is
swearing by the first of his human creation and then the human species as a whole.
198
"La" means certainly or without a doubt and "Qad" refers to something that happened in the
past with surety. Kabad refers to the natural existence we were created with for this dunya,
in a state of hardship and toil. From our very origin, the human birth, and then with infancy,
growing teeth, and then in adulthood, seeking a livelihood, our life is full of difficulty and
hardship. This life will always be full of trials and tribulations and will never be perfect. True
happiness cannot be found in the dunya, and is only found in Jannah in the akhira.

Those that exhausted Those that exhausted Those that exhausted Those that exhausted wealth in hindering this message wealth in hindering this message wealth in hindering this message wealth in hindering this message
`=-| -,- _=, | .| ..,| - =,| v- .| ,,, - .| ..,|
`=-| , ,|
5.Does he think that none can overcome him? 6. He says (boastfully): "I have
wasted wealth in abundance!" 7. Does he think that none sees him?
Allah is telling us something about human psychology. Some people think that because
they have a high status or wealth, they are invincible. However, Allah has the power
over all things and all people, no matter how much money the person has or who they are.

This ayah was revealed in reference to the kuffar in Makkah, who were very wealthy and spent
a great deal of money against Islam and the Prophet . Al-Lubada refers to the wealth that
is spent in large quantities continuously.

Do these people really think that Allah cannot see them or does not know what they are
doing? Allah knows and sees everything, and they cannot hide.

Look at your creation! Look at your creation! Look at your creation! Look at your creation!
,,- -| - ,|| - .| ,= - ,=| -.,=
8. Have We not made for him a pair of eyes? 9. And a tongue and a pair of lips?
10. And shown him the two ways (good and evil)?
199
Allah is asking us to look at ourselves and ponder, don't you think the one who created
your eyes can see you? Allah is the one who created eyes in different shapes, sizes and
colors. He knows all about vision and exactly how the human eye works, and yet people are
fooled into thinking that Allah cannot see them.

Allah also gave us the blessing of the tongue and two lips. Rather than being
appreciative and using the lips and tongue given to us by our Rabb for dhikr and the
remembrance of Allah we use them to disobey Allah in acts such as vain talk, lying or
backbiting.

Allah has clearly shown us the way to true guidance. We know the difference between
good and evil, and Jannah and Jahannam, and it is up to us to decide which path we wish to
take. We must overcome the obstacles of this Dunya so that we can make it to Jannah in the
akhira.

The Resurrection and its hardship The Resurrection and its hardship The Resurrection and its hardship The Resurrection and its hardship
-,-| ,| : - -,-| - =_.| \- - -,|_ c - ; ,, _ `;-|, |
-,-.- ;. - -,- . ,, - -,- . ,.- |
11. But he has not attempted to pass on the path that is steep (i.e. the path
which will lead to goodness and success). 12. And what will make you know
the path that is steep? 13. (It is) Freeing a neck (slave) 14. Or giving food in a
day of hunger (famine) 15. To an orphan near of kin. 16. Or to a Miskn (poor)
cleaving to dust (out of misery).

In this dunya, there are going to be many obstacles that we must overcome to attain Jannah.
Aqaba is the path that we need to overcome and remain focused on so that we do not go
astray. Allah mentions the steepness of the path again in verse twelve, creating
emphasis.

However, after telling us that the path to Jannah is steep Allah then provides us with the
means to overcome the obstacles that stand in our way. The first thing that is mentioned is to
200
free a slave. Islam does not support the subjugation and ill treatment of people. Slaves acquired
from war are to be treated with mercy. The Prophet had slaves so that he could give
them dawah and show them the path to Islam. The one form of slavery however, that should
be accepted is servitude to Allah , and this is the best form of slavery.

The second thing that is mentioned is feeding the hungry. Alhamdulillah we are blessed to have
so many options and varieties of food. This should cause us to be grateful and to give
generously from what Allah has blessed us with. We should not let people starve to
death in times of shortage, and famine. This obligation is towards Muslims and non-Muslims
alike.

The third thing is to support the orphan who is related to you and to not abuse them. If a boy
or girl's father dies before they reach the age of puberty we must assist the orphan, be there
for them and utilize their inheritance for them, in their best interest.

Lastly, we must do what we can to alleviate the hardships of this dunya. When we see others
around us going through hardships we must try to help them in any way that we can.

How do we protect ourselves? How do we protect ourselves? How do we protect ourselves? How do we protect ourselves?

,- ,=| - . , --|, ,=, ,=|, ,=, - c.| |
-,| ..=| - -. =| ..=| , .,., ,=|
- ==- `_ ,,,-
17. Then he became one of those who believed, (in the Islamic Monothsim)
and recommended one another to perseverance and patience, and (also)
recommended one another to pity and compassion. 18. They are those on the
Right Hand (i.e. the dwellers of Paradise) 19. But those who disbelieved in Our
Ayt (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), they are those
on the Left Hand (the dwellers of Hell) 20. The Fire will be shut over them (i.e.
they will be enveloped by the Fire without any opening or window or outlet.

After we overcome the 4 obstacles above, we still strive so that we may remain firm on our
belief and continue on with sabr. We must have patience and perseverance, and help others to
act in the same manner. It is important to have mercy towards others and to help them. If we
are not merciful and compassionate by nature, we should train ourselves to be.

201
The People of Yameen are righteous and blessed; these are the people who have the
characteristics listed above. These people will receive their book in their right hand on the Day
of Judgment since they practiced compassion, mercy, patience and perseverance. The people of
Mash'amah are cursed and they will receive their book in their left hand. They are the opposite
of the people of yameen. May Allah save us from being among them.

The people who receive the book in their left hand will have the fire shut over them and they
will have no way out.

QURANIC GEMS

Encourage the Fact: Sacredness and status of Makkah.
Fact: Revealed during the conquering of Makkah.
Fact: Special status of humans believers.
Fact: Life is a constant state of change and struggling, until death. Then, finality comes
with the outcome of Heaven or Hell.
Beware: Dont be deluded regarding Allah
Fact: Allah is absolute
Command: Examine yourselves; your creation.
Fact: Discover Allahs perfect knowledge, wisdom and power in the process.
Fact: Allah has clearly shown the 2 paths and given us free choice.
3 Qualities that save from punishment:
Freeing a slave.
During a hunger crises: feed the needy; those related and unrelated.
True and sincere faith in Allah , the messenger , and returning to Allah
revives the heart.
Command: Save yourself from Hell by applying these teachings.
Command: Encourage the believers to be patient and steadfast in living Islam, and
encourage the wealthy to be merciful to the needy by relieving their distress.
Fact: If you do this you will be from the companies of the right.
Beware: To those who spend their wealth in sin and encouragement to do the opposite.
Fact: Salvation on Judgment Day can be achieved with spending in Allahs cause, faith,
good deeds and encouraging and supporting each other to do good deeds.
Beware: Against disbelief and the disbelievers.
202
203
,,| _,=

.,|., ,- 1 ,,=-| ,,| - _ ? .,- -, , =| _
1 .,-,= _ + .,-,= , _ 5 _|| - ,|| _
.,- 6 .| ,,| _ 7 -_| ,- _ 8 -- _
,= ,-, 9 =,| ,| -- _ 10 =-- _,| -- _
11 .== -,= ,|, ,, _ 1? - -= -- _
11 _ - - ==-| - || 1+ , ,- -, _| _
15 || =- _ 16 ,- . =| ;,, ., _ 17 ; ,, _
-,| .,| _,=| _ _, 18 ,| . .| . _ ,,
19 ,= . ,,| =`,= _ ?0 .= - . ,,- ., _
?1 ,\- _-=| _ ?? , -| ,, _,| _ ?1 ,, ., |=, | _
,= | ., ?+ |.- ,- |, _ ?5 | - _ ?6 _
,.- .,-, | , ,,, ?7 ,= ,\, ,,= _ ?8 _
, ,=-| _= ?9 ,=- |, ,=, ,|= _ 10 .,_
204
_- _| 11 ,-| =- _ 1? , _ ,| .- 11 _
|. =| 1+ ,= | ,-| ,, .,-., | _ 15 - - _
,.- =- c`,_ 16 -| ,,, - _|| =.| `=_ _
,=- -- .,, | 17 , ;,, _ = -| _| ;, |
,,= ,| -| -| ..| - |, ., , 18 | ;,,| c|. _
,\- -`,_ _|, = = 19 = , ; ,, ,,| ,=- ,_=| , _
, =, .-=| - | , . _ ,| , | ,, +0 _

What are they asking (one another about)? (1) About the great news, (i.e. Islmic
Monotheism, the Qur'n, which Prophet Muhammad brought and the Day of
Resurrection), (2) About which they are in disagreement. (3) Nay, they will come to
know! (4) Nay, again, they will come to know! (5) Have We not made the earth as a
bed, (6) And the mountains as pegs? (7) And We have created you in pairs (male and
female, tall and short, good and bad, etc.) (8) And We have made your sleep as a
thing for rest (9) And We have made the night as a covering (through its darkness),
(10) And We have made the day for livelihood. (11) And We have built above you
seven strong (heavens), (12) And We have made (therein) a shinning lamp (sun). (13)
And We have sent down from the rainy clouds abundant water. (14) That We may
produce therewith corn and vegetations, (15) And gardens of thick growth. (16)
Verily, the Day of Decision is a fixed time, (17) The Day when the Trumpet will be
blown, and you shall come forth in crowds (groups after groups). (Tafsir AtTabari)
(18) And the heaven shall be opened, and it will become as gates, (19) And the
mountains shall be moved away from their places and they will be as if they were a
205
mirage. (20) Truly, Hell is a place of ambush (21) A dwelling place for the
Tghn (those who transgress the boundry limits set by Allh like polytheists,
disbelievers in the Oneness of Allh, hyprocrites, sinners, criminals), (22) They will
abide therein for ages, (23) Nothing cool shall they taste therein, nor any drink. (24)
Except boiling water, and dirty wound discharges (25) An exact recompense
(according to their evil crimes) (26) For verily, they used not to look for a reckoning.
(27) But they belied Our Ayt (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations,
and that which Our Prophet SAW brought) completely. (28) And all things We have
recorded in a Book. (29) So taste you (the results of your evil actions); No increase
shall We give you, except in torment. (30) Verily, for the Muttaqn, there will be a
success (Paradise); (31) Gardens and vineyards, (32) And young fullbreasted (mature)
maidens of equal age, (33) And a full cup (of wine). (34) No Laghw (dirty, false, evil
talk) shall they hear therein, nor lying; (35) A reward from your Lord, an ample
calculated gift (according to the best of their good deeds). (36) (From) the Lord of the
heavens and the earth, and whatsoever is in between them, the Most Gracious with
whome they dare to speak (on the Day of Resurrection except by His Leave). (37)
The Day that ArRh [Jibril (Gabriel) or another angel] and the angels will stand
forth in rows, none they will not speak except him whom the Most Gracious (Allh)
allows, and he will speak what is right. (38) That is (without doubt) the True Day,
so, whosoever wills, let him seek a place with (or a way to) His Lord (by obeying
Him in this worldly life)! (39) Verily, We have warned you of a near torment the
Day when man will see that (the deeds) which his hands have sent forth, and the
disbeliever will say: "Woe to me! Would that I were dust!" (40)
206
Touched by an Angel Chapter 25: Surah an-Naba - 78

ft{ t@atut
The Great News

The Oft The Oft The Oft The Oft- -- -Debated of Life Hereafter Debated of Life Hereafter Debated of Life Hereafter Debated of Life Hereafter

The pagans of Quraish were questioning the reality of the Day of Judegment. When the prophet
spoke of the details that would occur on this day, the pagans caused great commotion.
Due to their denial, Allaah revealed this surah.

.,``, .,`-` , `,` ,,= ,` .,., ,
.,``, `,
1. Concerning what are they disputing? 2. Concerning the Great News 3. About
which they cannot agree. 4. Verily, they shall soon (come to) know! 5. Verily,
verily they shall soon (come to) know!

Allah asks, and He knows best, what is the great news that they are talking
about? The scholars of Quranic interpretation hold three opinions regarding what the great
news that has caused much dispute may be. The first opinion states that they were disputing
about the prophet himself. Some of the pagans were calling him a magician, sorcerer,
poet, and lunatic. They refuse to accept that he is a prophet with divine revelation.
Another opinion suggests that, the news they were disputing is about the Quran. The pagans
questioned whether it was divine revelation, the speech of Shaytaan, or the compilation of
previous scriptures dictated to the Prophet . The final opinion states that the news is in
regards to the life of the Hereafter, the Resurrection, and the Hisaab. Regardless of which
opinion is correct, the pagans debated on all of these issues and Allah is drawing our
attention to it.

Allah says that even if though these people differ, the knowledge of it will come to them
soon. The letter (seen) before Yalamoon indicates that this knowledge will come to them in
the near future. They will soon know about the Quraan, its reality, and realities spoken of
207

therein. Allah says this twice. This is to emphasize the magnitude of the matter and to
make it absolutely clear.
Examples of Allahs Examples of Allahs Examples of Allahs Examples of Allahs All All All All- -- -Encompassing Power Encompassing Power Encompassing Power Encompassing Power

., _.' - ,' - , ,' -' - ,_' ,.-, - - -,
` ,, - ,' -, - -, _,` - ,, ,, ,
- -`, -, -, - ,.'' ,', . . -`- -
, _,-` , '- - ' ..`-,

6. Have We not made the earth as a wide expanse, 7. And the mountains as
pegs? 8. And (have We not) created you in pairs, 9. And made your sleep for
rest, 10. And made the night as a covering, 11. And made the day as means of
subsistence? 12. And (have We not) built over you the seven firmaments, 13.
And placed (therein) a Light of Splendour? 14. And do We not send down
from the clouds water in abundance, 15. That We may produce therewith corn
and vegetables, 16. And gardens of luxurious growth?

The word mahd means a cradle or a bed, Allaah uses this word to refer to the Earth,
meaning He made the Earth a place for us to rest in.

Allaah also mentions some of His miraculous creation. He mentions the
mountains and describes them as pegs. They are only above the Earth in vision but Allaah
tells us that they are like pegs and extend a similar distance below the Earths surface.
This holds the Earths land in place as pegs hold things in place. Today, scientists are just
discovering these scientific miracles in the Quraan, such as this one, meanwhile it has been in
the Quran for nearly 1500 years. Allah is using this Surah to tell us about this amazing
Earth, and to provide a proof of His ability to do whatever He wishes concerning the Hereafter
and other matters as well.

Allah has created us in pairs and this means male and female. Allaah has also
created many other things in pairs such as positive and negative, tall and short, and hot and
cold. Although we may take these for granted now, because we are so familiar with them, we
cannot on our own conjure up any of these pairs or even conceive them. Allaah then
208

describes other more personal blessings that we interact with daily. Allaah also
describes sleep as Soobata. It comes from the root word sabt, which means rest. Yawm as-
Sabt was ordained for Bani Israeel as a day to rest. We all have experienced our bodies longing
for rest after a long day. Sleep is one of Allaah s mercies. Some scholars have noted
uncontrolled insomnia as a type of punishment. Studies have shown that an intoxicated
individual and a severely sleep deprived individual are likely to have similar difficulty with
certain tasks. Hence, in this verse Allaah mentions the miracle and mercy of sleep.

The night is described as clothing-libaasa. The night is like clothing because it conceals us with
its darkness. Without light, many things remain hidden. The night conceals our shortcomings
and for some it conceals our reality. During the day, we are in the publics eye. This may affect
our behavior and compel us to live by a moral standard that is respected by the public. When
we are alone, however, we do not have this standard to live up to; hence, the reality of the
individual becomes apparent, but Allaah conceals this for us and He is all aware.
Clothing is also a source of comfort and relaxation for us, just as the night is!

Then Allaah contrasts night with the day, which is maaasha, which comes from
maeesh. From sunrise to sunset, we seek Allaah s blessings. All of this occurs without
any concern from us at all. These are things we are familiar with then Allaah mentions
the seven heavens. Some have said that the heavens include all spheres of the sky such as the
troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, exosphere, ionosphere, and the
magnetosphere. Other scholars note that this may be in reference to the seven paradises.

Allaah then mentions the sun. The sun is a blazing torch that assists us in taking part in
productive activities during the day. It is shining over all the creation, and gives us light to walk
around and earn a living. If the Earth had been a little closer or further away from the sun, life
may not have existed.
Allaah then uses the word musirat to refer to rain. Linguistically this comes from the
word aseer meaning to squeeze. The rain cloud is so full that all you need to do is squeeze it so
the rain pours forth. Yet no individual can do this, it is only by Allaah s will. Rainwater is
extremely important since it is a source of vegetation and livelihood for the people. We cannot
live without farmers. We are interdependent on them and even if we have nothing to do with
producing these things, we still need them.
It is only Allaah who can release or withhold this blessing, and it is Him who
fashioned the Earth as such, free of error and in perfect harmony with the creation that resides
within it.

209

,. _ - ' . ~ . .~`,' - _ , ` .`,
_' ,.' _- _,= ,
He Who created the seven heavens one above another; no want of proportion
wilt thou see in the Creation of (Allah) Most Gracious. so turn thy vision
again: Seest thou any flaw?
[67:3]

Allah describes his creation as having no types of errors or rifts. This miracle is in front
of them, flawless. After describing the miracles on Earth and illustrating His might and power
Allaah describes the miracles of the afterlife.

. .' ,, . .-, -,' .,`' _,'.' _ `_`, ,, .,
,,' . .`' ,, . -' .,`,`, ,

17. Verily the Day of Sorting Out is a thing appointed 18. The Day that the
Trumpet shall be sounded, and ye shall come forth in crowds 19. And the
heavens shall be opened as if there were doors 20. And the mountains shall
vanish, as if they were a mirage.

The Day of Assembly and Life Hereafter The Day of Assembly and Life Hereafter The Day of Assembly and Life Hereafter The Day of Assembly and Life Hereafter

In the Arabic tradition and throughout the Quran whenever something has great significance, it
has many names. The Day of Judgment is referred to in this verse as the day of al-FaSl. Al-FaSl
means separation between disbelievers and believers. On that day, Allaah will give his
final decree and verdict. Inna is a definitive term of affirmation that assures that this decree will
happen.

The angel Israfeel will blow the trumpet and the resurrection and gathering of groups will
begin. Each nation will come with its messenger or the one whom they took as their leader. This
is the Hashr, or the day of gathering, in which the Day of Judgment is sometimes referred to.
Hajj bears some similitude to the Day of Judgment. All of the people will be dressed uniformly
to come to one meeting spot to stand in front of Allaah .

210

Initially, Allaah had been explaining to us the miracles on the Earth, which we can easily
fathom because we see them. Then Allaah mentions the miracles that are unseen and
will undeniably come on the Day of Judgment. Then Allaah returns to the worldly
miracles He had mentioned earlier and describes what will happen to them. The huge
mountains that are seen daily and hold the Earth in place will be crumble to dust and be blown
away like blades of pollen. The sky will be torn and no longer will we see this peaceful
consistent layer of clouds and sky, rather there will be openings and entrances within it. The
volcano of Mt. St. Helens was so violent and destructive. It changed the lives of thousands for
generations to come. This is what can happen on Earth; imagine what will be on the Day of
Judgment, when Allaah says that it will be like no other.

Hellfire and What Lies in Wait Hellfire and What Lies in Wait Hellfire and What Lies in Wait Hellfire and What Lies in Wait
.,,, ,`-' ,, , , = .`, `. ,`,- .
, .,`-`,, ,` `,`,` , .,- `, ,- ,, , `,, ,
` , , , ``,.`-' .` , , ,, ,`,, ,-
, `,,,

21. Truly Hell is as a place of ambush 22. For the transgressors a place
of destination: 23. They will dwell therein for ages. 24. Nothing cool shall they
taste therein, nor any drink, 25. Save a boiling fluid and a fluid, dark, murky,
intensely cold 26. A fitting recompense (for them). 27. For that they used not
to fear any account (for their deeds), 28. But they (impudently) treated Our
Signs as false. 29. And all things have We preserved on record. 30. "So taste ye
(the fruits of your deeds); for no increase shall We grant you, except in
Punishment."

Allaah uses the word Inna for Hellfire. This is an affirmation of something that is going
to happen with absolute certainty. Hell is not a place where things occur, Hell is something that
is living. It is a place of ambush, waiting for its prey. The people it will ambush are the Tagheen.
This word comes from the verb taghaa, which refers to people who have broken past the limits
Allaah has set. Whether they rejected what the Prophet was calling them to or
did not heed Allaah s warnings, or enjoined each other on evil on that day they will
211

understand what they have been warned of and will know what they have justified upon
themselves. For them Jahanam (Hell) will be their holding place forever. The word huqub
means 80 years. However, the word ahaqaba means for an eternity, meaning forever. On that
Day Allaah will say to Hell:

,,` ,, .'` ,`,- , `,,
"Are you filled?" It will say: "Are there any more (to come)?"
[Qaf:30]

Therein they will drink boiling water with pus that oozes from the wounds of the disbelievers
in Hell. This is the only drink they will have and it will boil and burn away their skins. This is a
punishment that they deserve and have justified upon themselves.

Allaah then explains that these people did not look out for the Day of Judgment.
They belied His signs, and they will not be able to deny the vileness of their actions because it
will preserved in a record. Therein the gatekeeper of Hell Maalik, will be begged by Hells
dwellers:

,, ',_ , , `:.., : .,.` ,` , ,
They will cry: "O Malik! would that thy Lord put an end to us!" He will say,
"Nay, but ye shall abide!"
[Zukhruf: 77]

They will ask him to ask Allaah to end their punishment, but he will say no. This is a place
where you will dwell for eternity.

Paradise and What lies in Wait Paradise and What lies in Wait Paradise and What lies in Wait Paradise and What lies in Wait

_ `` . - - .', - ,,' . ,, - ', -
, .,`, , , , , - ,- . = :`,`_ ` ,- .

31. Verily for the righteous there will be a fulfillment of (the Heart's) desires;
32. Gardens enclosed, and Grape-vines; 33. Companions of Equal Age; 34. And
212

a Cup full (to the Brim). 35. No Vanity shall they hear therein, nor Untruth
36. Recompense from thy Lord, a Gift, (amply) sufficient

After describing the recompense for those who committed evil, Allaah talks about the
reward of those who sincerely believes. In Jannah they will abide, a place that no eye has ever
seen, no heart has ever imagined, and it is only for the MuttaQeen. This is a special category of
believers who protect themselves from sins.

HadaaiQ are gardens and Anaaba are grapevines. Allaah uses things that we are
familiar with on Earth, as a mercy upon us to help us understand. This makes the beauty of
Jannah more tangible and easier for us to imagine.

Wakawaib are spouses. The couples in the Dunyaa will have the same spouses in Jannah. There
will be Hur al Een, but in Jannah the wives of Earth will be far more beautiful. Their husbands
will not even look at Hur al Een. Wives will be the leaders of the Hur al Een. Allaah
doesnt say the verses of the maidens bodies to tempt anyone but to tell us the perfection of
Jannah, even in women and all of its inhabitants. The men will also be in perfect form. No
husband will do anything that is displeasing to his wife.

They will drink from full cups of wine that will not cause them any harm. There will be no laghw,
or talk that is displeasing to Allah . This and much more is the reward that awaits those
who have sincerely believed and done righteous deeds. There is no fleeting pleasure in this
world that can be worth the wing of a fly from Jannah. Jannah holds the ultimate irresistible
pleasure.

Narrated Ibn Mas'ud: Verily the Messenger of Allaah said: The last to enter
Paradise would be a man who would walk once, stumble once and be burnt by
the Fire once. Then when he passes beyond it, he will turn to it and say:
Blessed is He Who has saved me from thee. Allah has given me something He
has not given to any one of those in earlier or later times.

Then a tree would be raised for him and he will say: O my Lord! Bring me near
this tree so that I may take shelter in its shade and drink of its water. Allah, the
Exalted and Great, would say: O son of Adam, if I grant you this, you will ask
Me for something else. He would say: No, my Lord. And he would promise
Him that he would not ask for anything else. His Lord would excuse him
because He sees what he cannot help desiring; so He would bring him bear it,
and he would take shelter in its shade and drink of its water. Afterwards a tree
more beautiful than the first would be raised before him and he would say: O
my Lord! Bring me near this tree in order that I may drink of its water and take
213

shelter in its shade and I shall not ask Thee for anything else. He (Allah)
would say: O son of Adam, if I bring you near it you may ask me for
something else. He would promise Him that he would not ask for anything
else. His Lord will excuse him because He sees something he cannot help
desiring. So He would bring him near it and he would enjoy its shade and
drink its water.

Then a tree would be raised for him at the gate of Paradise, more beautiful
than the first two. He would say: O my Lord! Bring me near this (tree) so that I
may enjoy its shade and drink from its water. I shall not ask Thee for anything
else. He (Allah) would say: O son of Adam! Did you not promise Me that you
would not ask Me for anything else? He would say: Yes my Lord, but I shall
not ask Thee for anything else. His Lord would excuse him for He sees
something the temptation of which he could not resist.

He (Allah) would bring him near it, and when He brings him near it he would
hear the voices of the inhabitants of the Paradise. He would say: O my Lord!
Admit me to it. He (Allah) would say: O son of Adam, what will bring an end
to your requests to Me? Will it please you if I give you the whole world and a
similar one with it? He will say: O my Lord! Art Thou mocking at me, though
Thou art the Lord of the worlds?

Ibn Mas'ud laughed and asked (the hearers): Why don't you ask me what I am
laughing at. They (then) said: Why do you laugh? He said: It is in this way that
the Messenger of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) laughed. They (the companions
of the Holy Prophet) asked: Why do you laugh, Messenger of Allah? He said:
On account of the laugh of the Lord of the universe, when he (the desirer of
Paradise) said: Art Thou mocking at me though Thou art the Lord of the
worlds? He would say: I am not mocking at you, but I have the power to do
whatever I wish.

[Sahih Muslim]

This narration is amongst the proofs that Jannah has multiple levels and that everyone gets
exactly what they want and more. Mazeed or Ziyaada is to be able to see Allah the most
beautiful.

214

,.`' `.`_ _.', . ,, , `, .~`,' ,, ,=- ` .,,
.'', `_,',' `,, . .,`, , `.~`,' ` .'
,,' : ,,. '-' ` `,_ _ -`' . . , ` _' ,.
,, ,, , ,'' `,=, .` . ,` `. _,., `,' ,,, `, ,

37. (From) the Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all between (Allah)
Most Gracious: none shall have power to argue with Him. 38. The Day that
the Spirit and the angels will stand forth in ranks, none shall speak except any
who is permitted by (Allah) Most Gracious, and he will say what is right. 39.
That Day will be the sure Reality: therefore, whoso will, let him take a
(straight) Return to his Lord! 40. Verily, We have warned you of a Penalty
near the Day when man will see (the Deeds) which his hands have sent forth,
and the Unbeliever will say "Woe unto me! Would that I were (mere) dust!"

Allaah is the True Lord of everyone and everything in the heavens and in the sky. He
is the ultimate Creator, Provider, Cherisher and Sustainer of his creation. The
names Allaah and Ar-Rahman are particular to Him that it is impermissible to name a
child one of these two names, even is the alif and the lam are removed from the beginning. On
that Day none will have the ability to argue for themselves.
The magnitude of this Day will silence all except for whom Allaah wills. The Angels will
line in rows and none will do anything, not even flinch, without Allah granting them
permission.

This is important to note because several people have come forth recently claiming to be
intercessors who have a special connection with Allaah . They are wrongfully obeyed, but
on that day even the most magnificent of angels, Jibreel will not be able to speak.

It is out of Allaah s mercy that He allows certain people to intercede as
mentioned in the authentic sunnah. The truth will be clear benefit will come to the people who
strove for it in the Dunyaa. Allaah says to us that if we want, we should be serious and
diligent in the worship of your Lord. Allaahs will is there to guide you in the path to
righteousness.

215

In the last verse, Allaah uses the word inna, the letter nun here is the nun of kingship or
majesty. Innaa meaning you have certainly been warned of the severe punishment that is near.
Allah is again affirming the reality of this day. Everyone will see their own actions and
will know what they have earned. They will say: Yaa laytanee. This is a statement of regret,
meaning if only I could turn to dust; in order to escape the enormity of this Day and of what is
to come. On this Day however, there will be no injustice. Everyone will receive their due
recompense, even the animals. Allaah will resurrect the animals and if any animal had
been wrongfully attacked by another animals horn, it as well will have justice on this Day.
Indeed, not even the animals will be able to get away from the thulm (injustice) they have
committed on this Earth. After the reckoning has ended for the animals, Allaah will turn
them to dirt and they will cease to exist. The rest of creation will see this and they too will wish
that they were dirt. Other scholars of Quranic interpretation note that shaytaan will say that he
wishes to be dirt. This is because when Allaah created Adam from dirt, shaytaan said he
was from fire and therefore he was better, but when shaytaan sees the reality of this day, he
will wish he was the dirt that he belittled and became arrogant over.


Fact: The Disbelievers question Allah , the message, and the Messenger despite
undeniable proofs.

Just because you cant smell, hear, feel, touch or taste something doesnt mean that it is
not a reality.

Fact: They will know for sure

Shaykh ul-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah said that learning Arabic is Waajib on every
Muslim. He said because the Quraan is in Arabic, you need to know the Quraanic
language to gain guidance. Whatever leads you to that which is obligatory
(understanding the Quraan), is obligatory itself (Arabic language).

Fact: This Sura highlights Allah s ability, knowledge, wisdom and mercy in these
signs of the creation.

Fact: If you acknowledge these things, acknowledge TawHeed and be Muslims.

216

Fact: Resurrection, Recompense, Prophet-hood, Gods oneness are true so do not differ on
them.
Fact: Allah describes some of the events on that day.

Fact: Upon death, absolute reality becomes clear and we do not differ. But by then, it
becomes too late.

Fact: Beware to the Rebellious: punishment is made clear. These are warning you need
because this is serious.

Fact: Resurrection is absolute.

Fact: We are being recorded.

Fact: Disbelievers will be punished in Hell and it is eternal punishment.
Fact: The status of the righteous and their rewards.

Fact: Believers get anything they want in Jannah.

Fact: Beware: It is caution against lying and speaking wrongly.

Fact: Jannah is not all the same and has levels.

Fact: Allah s court is in complete order. Muslims should have this order too but
we have chaos. There are even churches today that have a set number of people who will
have salvation and there is no space for joining the church.

Fact: All will remain standing throughout.

Command: Seek refuge and safety with Allah from now.

Beware: The warning has been given; no excuses. When we are given a warning, then it
means we have removed liability from ourselves and we have no excuse in front of Allah
.
217
218
Touched by an Angel Chapter 26: Surah al-Mutaffifeen - 83

ft{
t@`tyy|yxx

The Defrauders

Usually Allah reveals the Madani Suras with very distinct characteristics of societal law,
establishment of the Shariah and verses related to the Jews and hypocrites. However, Ibn
Abbas said: This Surah was revealed because of the Ansar. Prior to Prophet , they used
to work with Kayl and Wazn (measurement), purchasing at full measure and selling at lower
prices.

219
=' _,= _

_=| , 1 .,,., | _- ,| ., ,=| _ ? ., _
.., ,,_ | ,,| 1 -,- ,,| c|| =, || _ .,, + _
,,=- ;,,| 5 _| -| `=| | ;,, ;,, _ 6 _ = .,
_`= _| _| 7 `_`= - =_.| - _ 8 `;,|- `= _
9 _,=| =-,, , _ 10 .,,=, ,=| _ ,`=| ;,,, 11 _
,,| =-- |, -, ==, - 1? _|=| ,| , -,- _ ., _
_| || 11 _ , - ,,,,| _- ._ .,,., , 1+ _
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16 .,,= -, , =| = ,, , _ 17 = ., _
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.=, c_|| ?1 ,,-| = ,,,- _ =- _ ?+ _
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220
| .,. ?6 ,,. - --- _ ?7 ,, ==, ,- _
.,,| ?8 .,=, ,- ,=| - , ,--| ,=| ., _
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_=- ,,,- ,=_| 11 ., =, _| - ,- ,=| ;,,| _
1+ _ .=, c_|| _- 15 _| =`, _ .,-, , -
16 _

Woe to AlMutaffifun (those who give less in measure and weight). (1) Those who,
when they have to receive by measure from men, demand full measure, (2) And
when they have to give by measure or weight to (other) men, give less than due. (3)
Do they not think that they will be resurrected (for reckoning), (4) On a Great Day,
(5) The Day when (all) mankind will stand before the Lord of the 'Alamn (mankind,
jinn and all that exists)? (6) Nay! Truly, the Record (writing of the deeds) of the
Fujjr (disbelievers, polytheists sinners, evildoers and wicked) is (preserved) in Sijjn.
(7) And what will make you know what Sijjn is? (8) A Register inscribed. (9) Woe,
that Day, to those who deny. (10) Those who deny the Day of Recompense. (11)
And none can deny it except every transgressor beyond bounds, (in disbelief,
oppression and disobedience to Allh), the sinner! (12) When Our Verses (of the
Qur'n) are recited to him he says: "Tales of the ancients!" (13) Nay! But on their
hearts is the Rn (covering of sins and evil deeds) which they used to earn (14) Nay!
Surely, they (evildoers) will be veiled from seeing their Lord that Day. (15) Then,
verily they will indeed enter (and taste) the burning flame of Hell. (16) Then, it will
be said to them: "This is what you used to deny!" (17) Nay! Verily, the Record
221
(writing of the deeds) of AlAbrr (the pious and righteous), is (preserved) in
'Illiyyn. (18) And what will make you know what 'Illiyyn is? (19) A Register
inscribed. (20) To which bear witness those nearest (to Allh, i.e. the angels). (21)
Verily, AlAbrr (the pious who fear Allh and avoid evil) will be in Delight
(Paradise). (22) On thrones, looking (at all things). (23) You will recognise in their
faces the brightness of delight. (24) They will be given to drink of pure sealed wine.
(25) The last thereof (that wine) will be the smell of Musk, and for this let (all) those
strive who want to strive (i.e. hasten earnestly to the obedience of Allh). (26) It (that
wine) will be mixed with Tasnm. (27) A spring whereof drink those nearest to
Allh. (28) Verily, (during the worldly life) those who committed crimes used to
laugh at those who believed. (29) And whenever they passed by them, used to wink
one to another (in mockery); (30) And when they returned to their own people,
they would return jesting; (31) And when they saw them, they said: "Verily, these
have indeed gone astray!" (32) But they (disbelievers, sinners) had not been sent as
watchers over them (the believers). (33) But this Day (the Day of Resurrection) those
who believe will laugh at the disbelievers (34) On (high) thrones, looking (at all
things). (35) Are not the disbelievers paid (fully) for what they used to do? (36)

222

ft{ t@`tyy|yxx
The Defrauders

The Curse of Those who Deal in Business Fraud The Curse of Those who Deal in Business Fraud The Curse of Those who Deal in Business Fraud The Curse of Those who Deal in Business Fraud

`,, =` ,1, , , _ ` .,`,`, ,`, , `,`, ,'
` ,`,`_`, .,`,`-`, ,, ' '=, :,' ,`,`' .,,``` ,1,

1. Woe to Al-Mutaffifin [those who give less in measure and weight (decrease
the rights of others)], 2. Those who, when they have to receive by measure
from men, demand full measure, 3. And when they have to give by measure
or weight to men, give less than due. 4. Think they not that they will be
resurrected (for reckoning),
Mutaffifeen comes from the word Tafee, which means light. Here Allah addresses the
situation of giving short measure in Madina. Business was not being done properly and was
being taken lightly. People were not getting the rights that they deserved.

These individuals were fiddling with measurements and weight to rip people off. Some were
involved in business practices that were unethical. Others asked for the full amount of money
from customers while they offered them less material.

Allah asks that do they not know that they will be resurrected? If they are ignorant and
dont know; now they do. Cheating people is not from Islam. Today, Muslims are so treacherous
that people dont want to deal with them. Its sad that Muslims will want to deal with Non-
Muslims instead of Muslims because the Non Muslims are more likely to abide by the rules.

`,, ,,= ,, `,, `,, `` `. , ,6,

223

5. On a great day, 6. The Day when (all) mankind will stand before the Lord
of the 'Alamn (mankind, jinns and All that exists)?

The End of Those who chose the Evil Path The End of Those who chose the Evil Path The End of Those who chose the Evil Path The End of Those who chose the Evil Path

. . _`- `- ,, , _`' ``- ,8, `. `,`,`
,', `,, `,, ,` ,1, , .,`,`, `, ,, ,` ,11, , `.`, ,
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.,`,` ,1,

7. Nay! Truly, the record (writing of the deeds) of the Fujjr (disbelievers,
sinners, evil-doers and wicked) is (preserved) In Sijjn. 8. And what will
make You know what Sijjn is? 9. A Register Inscribed. 10. Woe, that day,
to those who deny [(Allh, his angels, his Books, his Messengers, the Day of
Resurrection, and Al-Qadar (Divine Preordainments)]. 11. Those who deny
the Day of recompense. 12. And none can deny it except Every transgressor
beyond bounds, (in disbelief, oppression and disobedience of Allh, the
sinner!) 13. When Our Verses (of the Qur'n) are recited to Him He says:
"Tales of the ancients! 14. Nay! but on their hearts is the Rn (covering of
sins and evil deeds) which they used to earn. 15. Nay! Surely, they (evil-
doers) will be veiled from seeing their Lord that Day. 16. Then, Verily they
will indeed enter and taste the burning flame of Hell. 17. Then, it will be
said to them: "This is what You used to deny!"

Allah mentions the Sijjin in this Ayaah and there are two meanings given for Sijjin:

a) It is the name of the place for the Fujjar.
b) It is the name of the holding place for the books in Jahannam.

224

Allah mentions Sijjin twice. Why? It is to emphasize the concept and call your attention
to something very serious and very important. It is a book with all of the perfect points in the
record-keeping and documentation possible.

So Allah curses them if this is their preservation of their record. These people are those
who lie about Allah and deny him. Then they spread this false lie about the Day of Judgment
and the life hereafter. Today, the trend of Atheism is on the rise for certain European countries
like Netherlands and Sweden. They think their intelligence is enough to say religion is not true.
But this may be true for everything but Islam.

They practice Atheism or deny religion because of their own religions that failed like Christianity
and specifically Catholicism. They also deny this religion because of the corrupt Muslims they
see. They hold the idea that if Islam was good and true, Muslims wouldnt act the way they do.
Most people are sheep and flock to whatever direction they want.

They say they are stories of old. They are tales of antiquity and old news. Are they? These, to
them, are stories that are really a waste of time and have no value to them. This is their claim
though the mistakes they make are the same ones over and over again.

We are not learning from history and the same thing is being repeated over and over again.
Kalla and Bal following, means it is the absolute truth and an affirmation. Their hearts have evil,
arrogance and stubbornness- Allah is thus covering and sealing their hearts. It is as if
their fates are sealed and the verses that are supposed to transform humans just bounce off of
them.

On the Day of Judgment, they will not see their Lord and they will be put into a blazing inferno.
This is what they used to deny and it has come to them today: Accountability and the
Resurrection.

The The The The End of Those who Chose the Righteous Path End of Those who Chose the Righteous Path End of Those who Chose the Righteous Path End of Those who Chose the Righteous Path

. . _,`,' `, ,18,

18. Nay! Verily, the record (writing of the deeds) of Al-Abrr (the pious who
fear Allh and avoid evil), is (preserved) In 'Illiyyn.

225

After He mentions the villains, He mentions the heroes. He mentions it as
Haqqan or reality again with Kalla.

, _`' .,', ,1', `. `,`,` ,`, ``,`, .,`,`,` ,`1,

19. And what will make You know what 'Illiyyn is? 20. A Register
Inscribed. 21. To which bear witness those nearest (to Allh, i.e. the
angels).

Illiyun is mentioned and it is from the roots Ali or al-Uloow, which means a high place. Some
have said it is a high place in Jannah. SubHanAllah, the righteous will be witnesses of this
record.

There are two opinions as to exactly what the righteous people will witness. Some scholars say
Illiyun is the reality of the book itself. Others say Illiyyun is the reception of the book and what
it contains for those whom it records.

. _,`,' ,, ,``, _ :_' .,`,=, ,`, `,` `,,,`-`,
,`. ,,` ,`1, .`,``, ,-`_ ,``-` ,`,

22. Verily, Al-Abrr (the pious who fear Allh and avoid evil) will be In
delight (Paradise). 23. On thrones, looking (at All things). 24. You will
recognize In their faces the brightness of Delight. 25. They will be given to
drink pure sealed wine.

When you think of Jannah, you relate it to this Dunya. Naeem or Bliss- isnt it something that
we all seek? However, Jannah will be nothing like this world. The inhabitants of Jannah will be
reclining on thrones observing their surroundings and they will all be full of joy and their faces
express this. Their smiles will gleam and beam and be undeniable in its notice. It will emanate
and shine on the faces of the righteous.

Nectars and the best types of drinks will be there. It is not specified by Allah as to what
types of drinks they will be. Wine in Jannah? Yes, there will be a whole river of wine and river of
milk. But this wine will have no intoxication. Why is wine Haraam now and Halaal later?

One of the reasons is because Allah willed it and he is most just. The second reason is
that the wine is not like the one in the Dunya. The third reason is that we can handle things in
226

the hereafter that we cannot handle now. Musa wanted to see Allah in this
Dunya. Instead of granting this wish immediately, Allah showed himself to a mountain
and the mountain collapsed.

``- `:` , : , .,`` ,`6, ``-,, ,,` `,
(27) `, `.,`, ,, .,`,`, ,`8,

26. The Last thereof (that wine) will be the smell of musk, and for this let (all)
those strive who want to strive (i.e. hasten earnestly to the obedience of
Allh). 27. It (that wine) will be mixed with Tasnm. 28. a spring whereof
drink those nearest to Allh .

Jannah is like nothing we have ever seen before. It contains in it that which will delight and
amaze us. The drinks in Jannah will not be like the drinks of this dunya. There will be no
intoxicatin or foul odors. They will be like Zamzam, that which you will never tire of drinking.
This is what we need to strive for. Not for the temporary things of the Dunya. Even if you get
these things in the world, they will not be yours forever.

Some people only worry about what others are doing and so if they are not doing good, they
point to others and say: Well, I am doing more than he or she is. Dont compete with anybody
else; just compete against yourself because our value is not about beating other people. Its
about how you, yourself, are striving to get closer to Allah .

Whos Laughing Now? Whos Laughing Now? Whos Laughing Now? Whos Laughing Now?

. , ,`,`-' ,` , ,` .,-`., ,`', , ,', `,,,
.,`,, ,, , ,` _ `,,`' ,` , ,1, , `,``,'_ , .
.`, .,. ,`, , ,`_' `,,`, =- ,, `,, , ,`
227

_ .,-`., ,1, _ :_' .,`,=, ,, .`, `_ ,`
.,, ,6,
29. Verily! (during the worldly life) those who committed crimes used to
laugh at those who believed. 30. And whenever they passed by them, used to
wink one to another (in mockery); 31. And when they returned to their own
people, they would return jesting; 32. And when they saw them, they said:
"Verily! These have indeed gone astray! 33. But they (disbelievers, sinners)
had not been sent as watchers over them (the believers). 34. But this Day (the
Day of Resurrection) those who believe will laugh at the disbeliever 35. On
(high) thrones, looking (at All things). 36. Are not the disbelievers paid
(fully) for what they used to do?

Allah tells us the reality of the villains and the troublemakers. They belittle the righteous
and the believers. When they walk past good people or see them walk past, they would laugh.
They would think: They (believers) are giving up all these nice things in Dunya for this
Hereafter and Jannah

ShayTaan has made them pay attention to others and forget themselves. There are people who
do Gheeba and so they dont worry about reforming themselves. They do not see the faults in
themselves but are quick to criticize others. The Yahood, Munafiqoon, and the Mushrikoon are
those who behave in this way. The Yahood used to say to the Mushrikoon that they were more
upon the truth than Muhammad . When you forget about Allah , how will you
remember yourself?

However, Allah comforts the Believers, saying that in the akhira the Believers will be on
high thrones and couches, looking down into Hell. They will see those who used to laugh at
them and mock them and then they will feel joy and laugh at the disbelievers. Each will get
what he deserves and what he set forth they were in the dunya.

QURANIC GEMS

Beware: Do not cheat on business transactions.
Beware of double standards, Muslim or non-Muslim. For some, it is not about ethics but
whatever gives them more money.
228

Beware: of the Resurrection and the Recompense.
Beware: of being rebellious and sinning.
Fact: The record book of the immoral is in storage below in the 7
th
basement of Hell.
Beware: To all those who deny Allah , his signs and meeting him. There are those
who take philosophy classes and Muslims might become Atheists and agnostics through
this. They can be a career person but dont have Islam. So what will their life be worth?
Fact: The Disbelievers will not see Allah .
Fact: Be believers if you want to see Allah .
Fact: Believers will see Allah in the hereafter.
Fact: Allah gives an incredible description of the righteous, their status and
rewards.
We need to yearn for Jannah. Where are we in regards to Jannah? Where do we want to
be? What can we do to please Allah ?
Command: Compete for Paradise.
Fact: Allah exposes the disbelievers and hypocrites.
Fact: In the Hereafter, believers shall laugh at the Disbelievers in Hell.
Fact: Allah honors the believers and humiliates the disbelievers.
Beware: The Disbelievers will be taken to Hell.

229
230
,| _,= , -

,,,| _- _- _=| =| | - ,=| , ,|
- ,,| 1 ,=- = ,, -| - ,,=_ _ ? ,, _ -`,| `.
1 -`,,| ,,- - =-, - |, =| ,| ,=| 3 - _ + _
, , =| ,,, - ,`=| -| _=- -| =,-,| |, -| -
| . c|. -`,| , 5 =| | - ,=| ., _
,, ,=|- ,,- _ _ _=| -,,| = , c|| 6 ., _
-,,| ,- , c|| =|=| ,- ,- ,=| 7 _ - ,
=,| ,, ,=|- _,|| , - .=- =- ,,`,_ =- _=_
- ,=_ ,,- -| - -,_ _=- | c|. 8 _

Those who disbelieve from among the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)
and AlMushrikn, were not going to leave (their disbelief) until there came to them
clear evidence (1) A Messenger (Muhammad ) from Allh, reciting (the Qur'n)
purified pages [purified from AlBtil (falsehood)] (2) Wherein are correct and
straight laws from Allh. (3) And the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)
differed not until after there came to them clear evidence. (i.e. Prophet Muhammad
231
and whatever was revealed to him). (4) And they were commanded not, but
that they should worship Allh, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from
ascribing partners to Him), and perform AsSalt (IqmatasSalt) and give Zakt:
and that is the right religion. (5) Verily, those who disbelieve (in the religion of
Islm, the Qur'n and Prophet Muhammad ) from among the people of the
Scripture (Jews and Christians) and AlMushrikn will abide in the Fire of Hell.
They are the worst of creatures. (6) Verily, those who believe [in the Oneness of
Allh, and in His Messenger Muhammad ) including all obligations ordered by
Islm] and do righteous good deeds, they are the best of creatures (7) Their reward
with their Lord is 'Adn (Eden) Paradise (Gardens of Eternity), underneath which
rivers flow, They will abide therein forever, Allh will be pleased with them, and
they with Him. That is for him who fears his Lord. (8)

232
Touched by an Angel Chapter 27: Surah al-Bayyinah - 98

ft{ t@Ut|t{
The Clear Evidence

The Position of Ahl Al The Position of Ahl Al The Position of Ahl Al The Position of Ahl Al- -- -Kitaab Regarding the Prophet Kitaab Regarding the Prophet Kitaab Regarding the Prophet Kitaab Regarding the Prophet
` 9 99 9 3 33 3 % %% % ! !! ! ` `` ` . .. . . .. . 3 33 3 9 99 9 . .. . : :: : 9 99 9 3 33 3 ` `` ` . .. . > >> > ` `` ` . .. . ! !! ! . .. .
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. .. . % %% % ! !! ! . .. . . .. . 3 33 3 9 99 9 | || | - -- - , ,, , ! !! ! ` `` ` : :: : l ll l > >> > , ,, , 9 99 9

1. Those who disbelieve from among the people of the Scripture (Jews and
Christians) and among Al-Mushrikn, were not going to leave (their disbelief)
until there came to them clear evidence. 2. A Messenger (Muhammad )
from Allaah, reciting (the Quraan) purified Pages [purified from Al-Btil
(falsehood, etc.)]. 3. Containing correct and Straight laws from Allaah. 4. And
the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) differed not until after there
came to them clear evidence. (i.e. Prophet Muhammad and whatever was
revealed to Him).

In these beginning verses, Allaah talks about the clear evidence, TawHeed, or Allaahs
Oneness. The people of Ahlul Kitaab compromised this and refused to abandon their disbelief
of associating others with Allaah . In the case of Christians, they developed the trinity,
while the Jews gave characteristics of Allaah to creation.

Mounfak, in the first ayah, means to separate and distance from. When it came to distancing
themselves, the people of Ahlul Kitaab separated themselves from the mushriqeen. The Jews
used to threaten to destroy Aws and Khazraj of the Quraysh when the Messenger arrived.
However, when the truth came, they allied with the mushrikeen instead. The people of Ahlul
Kitaab did not separate or distance themselves until the arrival of the Prophet .
233

Allaah tells us that al-bayyinah is both the Messenger and the Message he recites
to them, the Quraan, itself. Bayyinah also means a piece of evidence that stands in the court
of law. Allaah promises the disbelievers that the Prophet will be brought as a
witness against them on the Day of Judgment.

Ibn al-Qayyim said: Allaah sends hundreds of books to all the different Prophets. All of these
books can be combined into 5 books. All of these 5 books can be combined into the Quraan. All
of the Quraan can be combined into one Surah: the FaatiHaH. All of the FaatiHaah can be
combined into one Ayaah: Iyyaka nabudu wa iyyaka nastaeen. In other words, all of Islaam
and the religions of the Prophets come back to the purity of the intention of those who wish to
follow the Message.

When Muhammad came with the message, you would think they would have accepted.
Instead, they joined the ranks of the Mushrikeen. We can try to relate this to a modern
example. When Windows 95 was released, thereby replacing 3.1, people were happy to see
Windows 95 come out; the new version was better than the earlier one. Then when Windows
98 was released, people recognized it as the next step. The succession of the Prophets was the
same; in fact this was even clearer.

The Prophet said: The prophets ruled over the affairs of the children of Israel,
whenever a Prophet died another prophet succeeded him, but there will be no
Prophet after me. There will be khulafaa and they will number many. [Bukhari,
Muslim]

Some of the Jews used to say about the Prophet: We know you and are surer of you than our
own children. There were signs regarding him and characteristics in their own books that made
it clear who Muhammad was. The Prophet and his connection to the Jews was
absolutely clear, but they refused to accept him.

In All Aspects of Life, Purify Your Intention In All Aspects of Life, Purify Your Intention In All Aspects of Life, Purify Your Intention In All Aspects of Life, Purify Your Intention

! !! ! ' '' ' | || | , ,, , - -- - 9 99 9 < << < . .. . = == = ` `` `& && & ! !! ! $ $$ $! !! ! ! !! ! ` `` `> >> > ) )) )` `` ` = == = . .. .9 99 9 . .. . ` `` `
. .. . 9 99 9 7 77 7 9 99 9 ) )) ) 9 99 9
5. And they were commanded not, but that they should Worship Allaah, and
Worship none but Him alone (abstaining from ascribing partners to him), and
perform As-Salt (Iqmat-as-Salt) and give Zakt: and that is the Right
religion.
234

When Allaah sent the Prophet with the message of Islaam, he came to the people
with the same core teachings that were evident in their beliefs. They were commanded to
worship none other than Allaah , to believe in Him alone and to establish prayer and
charity. These were the same fundamental principles of their own beliefs so they should have
naturally accepted the message; however, they denied it.

The End of the Losers, whether Ahl Al The End of the Losers, whether Ahl Al The End of the Losers, whether Ahl Al The End of the Losers, whether Ahl Al- -- -Kitaab or Mushrikeen Kitaab or Mushrikeen Kitaab or Mushrikeen Kitaab or Mushrikeen

| || | % %% % ! !! ! ` `` ` . .. . . .. . 3 33 3 9 99 9 . .. . : :: : 9 99 9 ! !! ! > >> > $ $$ $ # ## # > >> > ! !! !
7 77 7 9 99 9` `` ` . .. . 9 99 9
6. Verily, those who disbelieve (in the Religion of Islaam, the Quraan and
Prophet Muhammad )from among the people of the Scripture (Jews and
Christians) and Al-Mushrikn will abide in the Fire of Hell. They are the
worst of creatures.

Verily, those who disbelieved, and died on that disbelief, will be the worst of all things on the
face of this Earth. However, does this give us the right to verbally abuse them or physically
mistreat them? Can we go around saying to them, You Kaafir. Absolutely not! The question
we should be asking ourselves is: Have we done anything to help them to understand the true
message of Islaam?

The End of the Victors, the People of Imaan The End of the Victors, the People of Imaan The End of the Victors, the People of Imaan The End of the Victors, the People of Imaan

| || | % %% % ! !! ! ` `` ` = == = - -- - > >> > = == = . .. .9 99 9 7 77 7 9 99 9` `` ` / // /` `` ` > >> > 9 99 9 > >> >
s ss s , ,, , > >> > s ss s > >> > ! !! ! . .. . > >> > ` `` ` { {{ { $ $$ $ # ## # > >> > ! !! ! , ,, , . .. .
< << < ] ]] ] s ss s . .. . s ss s 7 77 7 9 99 9 9 99 9 : :: : > >> > , ,, ,
7. Verily, those who believe [in the Oneness of Allaah , and in His
Messenger Muhammad ) including all obligations ordered by Islaam]
and do righteous good deeds, they are the best of creatures.
235

8. Their reward with their Lord is 'Adn (Eden) Paradise (Gardens of Eternity),
underneath which rivers flow, they will abide therein forever, Allaah
well-pleased with them, and they with Him. That is for him who fears his
Lord.

After speaking about the punishment of those who have disbelieved, Allaah tells us of
the reward of the believers. The best people on Earth, the righteous, will be rewarded with the
Garden of Eden, a place of everlasting and unfathomable beauty.

Heraclius was the Byzantine emperor who received the message of Islaam through Abu
Sufyaans testimony. Abu Sufyaans caravan was passing through the area so Heraclius asked
questions regarding Islaam and the Prophet . After asking these questions he said that
the Prophets kingdom would stretch far. The members of the caravan encouraged him to
embrace Islaam, saying aslim tuslim. He believed in the message, however, he feared the
reaction of his people if they discovered his desire to embrace Islaam. He spoke with his
advisors about this and realized that he would lose his authority if he became Muslim.
Heraclius knowingly turned his back on the Truth because of his love for his kingdom and his
fear of losing it.

QURANIC GEMS

Fact: Allaah declares that religions other than Islaam are corrupted and therefore
unsuitable for mankind.
Fact: There is only one true religion
Fact: Historically, the people of the book were awaiting the arrival of the final Prophet,
but when he came they differed into believers & disbelievers.
Command: The people of the book should be the closest and most receptive of people to
Islaam.
Fact: Tawheed, Salaah and az-Zakaah are core aspects of all the religions.
Fact: Tawheed is, and always has been, the core teaching of true faith and religion.
Fact: Those who choose to disbelieve after they have received the message are eternally
doomed; they are the worst people.
Fact: Declaration of heaven to those who whole-heartedly enter into Islaam.
236
237
Touched by an Angel Chapter 28: Surah an-Nasr - 110

ft{
t@at

The Victory The Victory The Victory The Victory

The Prophet attained victory over the people of Mecca. He entered humbly into Mecca
and achieved the victory over all of his enemies who had tortured him and the Muslims for
years. He had strived to gain the success that he did and under this context, this Surah was
revealed.

This Surah is the last Surah of the Quraan. Prophet Muhammad had also just returned
from the Battle of Hunain and its difficulties and he had come back to the core of what
Ibraheem had established- Masjid al Haraam.

238

=| _,=

_| -| = - ., 1 -| ,. _ .,-=, | .,|_ _
-,| ? -= c`,_ =, _`,. _ ,, . -, 1 _

When there comes the Help of Allh (to you, O Muhammad against your
enemies) and the conquest (of Makkah), (1) And you see that the people enter Allh's
religion (Islm) in crowds, (2) So glorify the Praises of your Lord, and ask His
Forgiveness. Verily, He is the One Who accepts the repentance
and Who forgives. (3)

239
ft{ t@at
The Victory The Victory The Victory The Victory

-_--' '' -- '=
'=, '' , ,'=-, '-' -,
1.When comes the Help of Allah (to you, O Muhammad (Peace be upon
him) against your enemies) and the conquest (of Makkah), 2. And you see
that the people enter Allah's religion (Islam) in crowds,
Idhaa is something that is a condition and whatever follows it will definitely happen in the
future. The victory or Fath mentioned in this Ayaah refers to the takeover of Mecca for the
Muslims. Allah gave RasulAllah the authority and the ability to take the center of
polytheism and revert it back to its original state of tawheed as established by Prophet Ibrahim
People began entering Islam in large numbers. There was a chain reaction of people
becoming Muslims after witnessing the victory of the Muslims and realizing that Islam is the
truth.

How Should We React? How Should We React? How Should We React? How Should We React?

'-,- ' - ---- =- --=- _--
3. So glorify the Praises of your Lord, and ask for His Forgiveness. Verily,
He is the One Who accepts the repentance and forgives.
When you attain success and victory from Allah, glorify Allah and ask him for
forgiveness. When the Messenger of Allah entered, he lowered his head and thanked
240
Allah . He did not take vengeance on anyone and was not unjust. This showed the
disbelievers his honor and character. In contemporary times and in the past when military
forces conquered people it was never this peaceful.
The Khaleefah Umar ibn al Khattab was sitting with young Ibn Abbas and other men.
The men complained about why a boy like Ibn Abbas was sitting with them when their own
children were not there? Umar wanted to show them that knowledge is not bound by age.
He asked all of them the Tafseer of this Surah. They all gave the basic meanings of the Surah
which could be found in the Ayaat themselves. Then he asked Ibn Abbas the Tafseer. He said
this was revealed in regards to the fact that the Prophets death is near. his mission is
finishedhis purpose has come to an endthat means he is going to leave us. When the other
Sahabah heard this, they cried. It showed Ibn Abbas special status.
Though the Prophet has left, his mission continues today for us to spread. He has left us
as the conveyers of his message. Each and every one of us need to take on this role of calling
people to the truth and spreading Islam. When giving dawah seems too difficult for us we
should remember the hardship and difficulty that our beloved Prophet went through to
propogate this deen. Ultimately, he attained victory by the will of Allah. Nothing is impossible
or unattainable for the believer if he has the help of Allah .
The purpose of teaching this course, Tafseer Juz Amma, was not to give a complete Tafseer. It
was not to make us of the Mufassireen. Rather, its objective was to allow us be touched by the
Quraan and to give us opportunities to look at these chapters of the Quraan in ways we never
have before.

QURANIC GEMS
Fact: It was revealed during the conquering of Mecca.
Fact: Allah promises this to the Prophet
241
TBAA TBAA TBAA TBAA PPN Family PPN Family PPN Family PPN Family
Gluestick Gluestick Gluestick Gluestick Compilation Compilation Compilation Compilation Compilers Compilers Compilers Compilers- -- -in in in in- -- -Charge Charge Charge Charge
Khaatib El7oor Khaatib El7oor Khaatib El7oor Khaatib El7oor
Vapor Vapor Vapor Vapor AmaturRehman AmaturRehman AmaturRehman AmaturRehman
Afiya Afiya Afiya Afiya
The Lion and Warrior of The Lion and Warrior of The Lion and Warrior of The Lion and Warrior of
The Ummah The Ummah The Ummah The Ummah
Bint AbdulGhani Bint AbdulGhani Bint AbdulGhani Bint AbdulGhani
Editing Editing Editing Editing Hidaya Hidaya Hidaya Hidaya Design and Graphics
Umm Ishaaq
Komal Komal Komal Komal Maestro ViSualante Maestro ViSualante Maestro ViSualante Maestro ViSualante
Vapor
Sibgha_z Sibgha_z Sibgha_z Sibgha_z Bint AbdulGhani Bint AbdulGhani Bint AbdulGhani Bint AbdulGhani
Hidaya
Asma Asma Asma Asma

Brooklyn
AR Aqeedah AR Aqeedah AR Aqeedah AR Aqeedah Hadith Scouts
Dust
Dina Dina Dina Dina
Dust Dust Dust Dust

A A A A special thanks special thanks special thanks special thanks extended to the following: extended to the following: extended to the following: extended to the following:
Qabeelat Tayybah Note Qabeelat Tayybah Note Qabeelat Tayybah Note Qabeelat Tayybah Note- -- -takers takers takers takers
Qabeelat Nurayn Qabeelat Nurayn Qabeelat Nurayn Qabeelat Nurayn
Qabeelat Durbah Qabeelat Durbah Qabeelat Durbah Qabeelat Durbah
Banu Boston Banu Boston Banu Boston Banu Boston
And everyone else who participated

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- ,-. .| =- = =_ _'-|
242

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