By: Abuu `Abdus-Salaam `Abdulwaasi bin `Abdur-Razzaak Baruwa

DEDICATION Bismillaah, Was-Salaatu Was-Salaam Alaa Rasuulillaah. This book, Spiritual Dryness in Islaam, is dedicated to all Muslims and Muslimahs always wishing to become devoted to Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) in their day-to-day life activities.

<< And those who, when they have committed Faahishah (illegal
sexual intercourse etc.) or wronged themselves with evil, remember Allaah and ask forgiveness for their sins; - and none can forgive sins but Allaah - And do not persist in what (wrong) they have done, while they know. For such, the reward is Forgiveness from their Lord, and Gardens with rivers flowing underneath (Paradise), wherein they shall abide forever. How excellent is this reward for the doers (who do righteous deeds according to Allaah's Orders). >>
[Suurah 3:135-136]

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INTRODUCTION
All the praises and thanks are due to Almighty Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaala), and may the Blessings and Peace of Almighty Allaah be upon the Best of mankind Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), and also upon his households, companions, and those who followed and are following the Prophet's footprints in truth in their daily practices. In today's Muslims world, many Muslims are seriously experiencing Spiritual Dryness to the extent that majority amongst us hardly ever experience the real sweetness of faith. The basic reason why many of today's Muslims couldn't practise this Deen of Paradise (Al-Islaam) as required is due to their sufferings from Spiritual Dryness. It is only after a Muslim could attain Spiritual Wealth that he or she could be able to actually feel or realize what Sweetness of Faith is, in Islaam. In trying to bring into reality, this book tries to treat the subject of Spiritual Dryness in Islaam by actually defining what Spiritual Dryness is, its manifestations, causes and solutions to Spiritual Dryness in Islaam. After defining what Spiritual Dryness in Islaam is, the book went further to bring about eight of the manifestations of Spiritual Dryness in a Muslim's or Muslimah's life. These are signs that if seen in a Muslim's life, then it should be realized that such a Muslim may probably be suffering from Spiritual Dryness. After this, it pinpoints twenty-two of the causes of Spiritual Dryness in Islaam. Finally, the book enumerates thirteen of the solutions to Spiritual Dryness in Islaam, all with commentary on Ahaadeeth from http://www.witness-pioneer.org/vil/hadeeth/riyad/default.htm For any Muslim or Muslimah wishing to save himself or herself from Spiritual Dryness in attaining Spiritual Wealth, this is a recommended book that should be specially studied till he or she ensures that its contents have been well digested, understood and utilized in his or her day-to-day life activities. May Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) makes it easy for each

and everyone of us, Aameen.

Abuu Abdus-Salaam Abdulwaasi bin Abdur-Razzaak Baruwa. Rabeeul-Awwal, 1432 (February, 2011)

Table of Contents
DEDICATION..................................................................................................................... 2 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................... 3 CHAPTER ONE..................................................................................................................6 WHAT IS SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM?..............................................................6 CHAPTER TWO ................................................................................................................ 8 THE MANIFESTATIONS OF SPIRITUAL DRYNESS!...................................................8 [1] Weak Humbleness during the Observance of Act of Ibaadah (Worship), Particularly Salaat (Formal Prayer)......................................................................................................... 8 [2] Feeling of Hard-heartedness.........................................................................................10 [3] Lack of Being Moved While Listening to Or Hearing the Recitation of Al-Qur-aan.. 12 [4] Not Being Inclined to Gathering of Knowledge.......................................................... 13 [5] Drought of the Eyes (of Tears).....................................................................................15 [6] Lack of Remorse after Missing an Obligatory Work, for Example, Salaat (in Jamaaah (Congregation))..................................................................................................................17 [7] Lack of Longing to Visit the House of Allaah in Makkah. ......................................... 19 [8] Ceasing the Recitation of the Holy Qur-aan and Grave-yard Visitation Which Reminds Us of a Day of Meeting With Allaah and So on. ............................................... 22 CHAPTER THREE........................................................................................................... 28 TWENTY-TWO OF THE CAUSES OF SPIRITUAL DRYNESS ............................................................................................................................................28 1- Abandoning the recitation of the Holy Qur-aan............................................................ 28 2 - Abandoning the application of the Holy Qur-aan.........................................................28 3 - Giving wide room for permitted acts above the obligatory ones................................. 29 4 - Abandoning of Tahajjud............................................................................................... 29 5 - Not performing Salaat at their times.............................................................................30 6 - Not performing Salaat in the Masjid in Jamaa`ah (congregation)................................30 7 - Going to Masjid late for Salaat.....................................................................................30 8 - Not attending authentic soul-inspiring gatherings of knowledge.................................31 9 - Concentrating on intellectual readings above spiritual ones........................................ 31 10 - Not giving charity....................................................................................................... 32 11- Not visiting graves, hospitals.......................................................................................32 12 - Spending more than enough time for earning money.................................................32 13 - Marrying to non-religious partner...............................................................................33 14 - Domestic problems.....................................................................................................34 15 - Job related problems...................................................................................................34 16 - Not being attentive to recitation of the Holy Qur-aan. ............................................................................................................................................35 17- Not identifying with righteous companions and mixing with vain people..................36 18 - Too much arguments..................................................................................................36 19 - Lack of self-assessment.............................................................................................37 20 - Too much laughter and jokes......................................................................................37 21 - Not lowering the gaze.................................................................................................37 22 - Underrating sins. And so on....................................................................................... 38 CHAPTER FOUR..............................................................................................................39

THIRTEEN (13) OF THE SOLUTIONS TO SPIRITUAL DRYNESS ............................................................................................................................................39 1- Regular recitation of the Holy Qur-aan with reflection.................................................39 2 - Congregational Salaat...................................................................................................39 3 - Going to the Masjid early for Salaat.............................................................................40 4 - Avoidance of vain talk, arguments................................................................................41 5- Lowering of gaze...........................................................................................................41 6 - Righteous companionship with Muslims..................................................................... 41 7 - Continuous acts of charity (Sadaqah)...........................................................................42 8 - Voluntary fasting...........................................................................................................43 9 - Supplications (Duaa)...................................................................................................44 10 - Morning and Evening remembrance of Allaah (Dhikr)..............................................44 11 - Reflection over sins.................................................................................................... 45 12 - Reading the life history of the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), the Companions (Radiyallaahu anhum ajmaeen) and those who truly followed their footsteps among the past scholars of 'Islaam (Rahimahumullaahu ajmaeen)..................45 13 - Striving to copy the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) and His companions. 46 CONCLUSION..................................................................................................................47 BIBLOGRAPHY:.............................................................................................................. 48 REFERENCES:................................................................................................................. 49

SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM

CHAPTER ONE WHAT IS SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM?

Spiritual dryness in Islaam is a circumstance or a situation of weak impact of Ibaadah [acts of worship of Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa)] on a Muslim's soul, that is, circumstances of spiritual insensitivity to every matter that has relevance to the Hereafter in belief, words and deeds. In another words, when a Muslim or Muslimah is becoming weak in his or her belief in Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) and His Rasuul (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) or becoming weak in his or her utterances as far as issues of the Deen (Religion) are concerned or becoming weak in his or her actions towards the requirements of Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) and His Rasuul (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), such a Muslim or Muslimah may probably be undergoing Spiritual Dryness. In one of the many verses of the Holy Qur-aan about the qualities of the Muslims or Muslimahs with sound spiritual condition, Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< The believers are only those who, when Allaah is mentioned, feel a fear
in their hearts and when His Aayaat are recited unto them, they (His Aayaat) increase their faith; and they put their trust in their Lord. Who perform the Salaat (formal prayer) and spend out of what We have provided them. It is they who are the believers in truth. For them are grades of dignity with their Lord, forgiveness and a generous provision (Paradise) >> [Suurah 8:2-4] One general solution in attaining Spiritual Wealth is deep understanding of a saying of Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), where he (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: There are three characteristics, whoever attains them has found the sweetness of faith: when Allaah and His Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) are dearer to him than all else, when he loves a man and does Copyright 2011 Abuu Abdus-Salaam
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not love him except for the sake of Allaah, and when he would hate to return to kufr (disbelief) after Allaah has saved him from it as he would hate to be 1 thrown into the fire.

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CHAPTER TWO THE MANIFESTATIONS OF SPIRITUAL DRYNESS!

The following are just eight of the manifestations of Spiritual Dryness in Islaam:

[1] Weak Humbleness during the Observance of Act of Ibaadah (Worship), Particularly Salaat (Formal Prayer).
When a Muslim or Muslimah discovers that he or she is becoming less humble while observing an act of Ibaadah, like during Salaat, talking to parents, dealing with people in accordance with Kitaab and Sunnah's teachings and so on, then such should be an indication to such a Muslim or Muslimah that he or she may be suffering from Spiritual Dryness. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< Verily, those who believe (in the Oneness of Allaah - Islamic
Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds, and humble themselves (in repentance and obedience) before their Lord, - they will be dwellers of Paradise to dwell therein forever. >> [Suurah 11:23]

<< Had We sent down this Qur-aan on a mountain, you would surely have
seen it humbling itself and rending asunder by the fear of Allaah. Such are the parables which We put forward to mankind that they may reflect. >> [Suurah 59:21]

<< And the (faithful) slaves of the Most Gracious (Allaah) are those who
walk on the earth in humility and sedateness, and when the foolish address them (with bad words) they reply with mild words of gentleness. >> [Suurah 25:63]
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SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM

<< And for every nation We have appointed religious ceremonies, that they
may mention the Name of Allaah over the beast of cattle that He has given them for food. And your Ilaah (God) is One Ilaah (Allaah), so you must submit to Him Alone (in Islaam). And (O Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) give glad tidings to the Mukhbiteen [those who obey Allaah with humility and are humble from among the true believers of Islamic Monotheism], Whose hearts are filled with fear when Allaah is mentioned; who patiently bear whatever may befall them (of calamities); and who perform As-Salaat (Iqaamatus-Salaat), and who spend (in Allaah's Cause) out of what We have provided them. >> [Suurah 22:34-35]

<< ... the men and the women who are humble (before their Lord Allaah)... Allaah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise). >> [Suurah 33:35]

<< So We answered his call, and We bestowed upon him Yahyaa (John),
and cured his wife (to bear a child) for him. Verily, they used to hasten on to do good deeds, and they used to call on Us with hope and fear, and used to humble themselves before Us. >> [Suurah 21:90 ] Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: No Salaat is more burdensome to the hypocrites than the Fajr (dawn) prayer and the Ishaa (night) prayer; and if they knew their merits, they would come to them even if they had to crawl to do so (out of humbleness to 2 their Lord). Commentary: Ishaa and Fajr prayers were, and still are, very hard for the hypocrites for the reason that they performed Salaat only to make a show of it and not for the fear of Allaah. Therefore, Muslims should not show any
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laziness in them at all, lest they develop a resemblance with the hypocrites.

[2] Feeling of Hard-heartedness.

This is another manifestation of Spiritual Dryness in a Muslim's or Muslimah's life. This becomes obvious when he or she is finding it difficult, out of his or her own vain desires, to surrender to one or more commandment(s) of Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) and His Rasuul (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam). This is one of the greatest diseases of the heart that could affect a Muslim or Muslimah a lot on the Day of Resurrection. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allaah and His Messenger
(Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision. And whoever disobeys Allaah and His Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), he has indeed strayed in a plain error. >> [Suurah 33:36]

<< But no, by your Rabb, they can have no Faith, until they make you (O
Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) judge in all disputes between them, and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission. >> [Suurah 4:65] Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Everyone of my Ummah will enter Jannah (Paradise) except those who refuse. He was asked: "Who will refuse?'' He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Whoever obeys me, shall enter Jannah, and whosoever 3 disobeys me, refuses (to enter Jannah)
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SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM

Commentary: The word Ummah here stands for the community which accepted the invitation of the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), that is to say, the people who on his call embraced Islaam. Out of this community who follow him faithfully will go to Jannah.

Salamah bin Al-Akwa (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: My father said that a person ate in the presence of Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) with his left hand. He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Eat with your right hand. He said, "I cannot do that.'' Thereupon he (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: May you never do that. It was pride that prevented him from doing it. And he could not raise it (the right hand) up to 4 his mouth afterwards. Commentary: 1. To eat with the left hand without a valid reason, is a repulsive act. Besides eating, every other good action was done by the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) with his right hand. 2. To ignore the Injunctions of Allaah and the practice of the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) out of pride is a serious offence and can endanger even the Faith of a Muslim. In another Hadeeth, the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: None of you [truly] believes until his inclination (ways, picture or manners 5 of practicing the Deen) is in accordance with what I have brought

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[3] Lack of Being Moved While Listening to Or Hearing the Recitation of Al-Qur-aan.
When a Muslim or Muslimah is not being moved, interested, happy, fearful of Allaah, in one way or the other, while hearing or listening to a good recitation of the Holy Qur-aan, then he or she is probably being affected by Spiritual Dryness. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< The believers are only those who, when Allaah is mentioned, feel a fear
in their hearts and when His Verses (this Qur-aan) are recited unto them, they (i.e. the Verses) increase their Faith; and they put their trust in their Lord (Alone) >> [Suurah 8:2]

<< Do you then wonder at this recitation (the Qur-aan)? And you laugh at it and weep not. >>
[Suurah 53:59-60] Ibn Masuud (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said to me, Recite the Qur-aan to me. I said: "O Messenger of Allaah! Shall I recite it to you when it was revealed to you?'' He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: I like to hear it from others. Then I began to recite Suuratun-Nisaa . When I reached the Aayah: << How will it be when We shall bring a witness from every people and bring you (O Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) as a witness against them? >> (Having heard it) He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Enough! Enough! When I looked at him, I found his eyes were overflowing with 6 tears. Commentary: This Hadeeth stresses the need to hear the recitation of the Qur-aan from those who recite it beautifully in order to contemplate over it, as was done by the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) himself. Copyright 2011 Abuu Abdus-Salaam
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[4] Not Being Inclined to Gathering of Knowledge.

This is one of the most obvious signs of Spiritual Dryness in a Muslim's or Muslimah's life. Knowledge here stands for the knowledge of the Qur- aan and authentic Ahaadeeth because this knowledge alone is beneficial for man (as far as Spiritual Guidance is concerned), and it is through this knowledge that correct judgements can be made among the people. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< And who does more wrong than he who is reminded of the Aayaat
(proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of his Lord, then he turns aside therefrom? Verily, We shall exact retribution from the Mujrimuun (criminals, disbelievers, polytheists, sinners, etc.). >> [Suurah 32:22]

<< It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allaah. Verily, Allaah is All-Mighty, Oft-Forgiving. >>
[Suurah 35:28] Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:

The world, with all that it contains, is accursed except for the
remembrance of Allaah, that which pleases Allaah; and the religious 7 scholars and seekers of knowledge. Commentary: This Hadeeth does not mean that this world, and whatever is in it, is really cursed. What it in fact means is that such things of this world are cursed which make a person negligent of the remembrance of Allaah; or it is cursed for those who in their whole life do not remember Allaah. This Hadeeth also established that acquisition of knowledge is essential, to know that such and such work will be a source of winning the Pleasure of Allaah and such and such act will incur His displeasure. This is the reason the teacher and the
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learner (of Qur-aan, authenntic Ahaadeeth and other authentic Islamic knowledge for the Sake of Allaah Alone) have been included in the exemptions from the curse.

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[5] Drought of the Eyes (of Tears).

When a Muslim or a Muslimah CAN'T actually imagine a day that he or she remembered one thing or the other about Allaah as far as fearing Him (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) is concerned or remembered one or more of his or her sin(s) and started crying or almost crying out of fear of Allaah, then such a Muslim or Muslimah should know that he or she is definitely suffering from Spiritual Dryness.

<< And they fall down on their faces weeping and it increases their humility. >>
[Suurah 17:109] Anas bin Malik (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) delivered a Khutbah to us the like of which I had never heard from him before. In the course of the Khutbah, he said: If you knew what I know, you would laugh little and weep much. 8 Thereupon those present covered their faces and began to sob. Commentary: This Hadeeth proves the fact that the Companions of the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to weep out of fear of Allaah when they heard sermons and preachings. It induces us to follow them. Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: One who weeps out of fear of Allaah, will not enter the Hell till milk returns back in the udder; and the dust raised on account of fighting in the 9 path of Allaah and the smoke of Hell will never exist together Commentary: 1 - A person who has such a fear of Allaah that he weeps on account of it, cannot be disobedient to Allaah. Obviously, his life will generally be spent in obedience of Allaah and strict abstinence from sins. It is very true to say that it is as impossible for such a person to go to Hell as the return of milk to the
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udders. 2 - Similarly, Jihaad (striving in Allaah's Cause) is an highly meritorious act for a Muslim. A Mujaahid, who fights for the sake of Allaah, is perfectly safe from Hell because the dust that falls on this way on him, cannot mix with the smoke of Hell. Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Seven people Allaah will give them His Shade on the Day when there would be no shade but the Shade of His Throne (i.e., on the Day of Resurrection): And they are: a just ruler; a youth who grew up with the worship of Allaah; a person whose heart is attached to the Masjid, two men who love and meet each other and depart from each other for the sake of Allaah; a man whom an extremely beautiful woman seduces (for illicit relation), but he (rejects this offer and) says: I fear Allaah; a man who gives in charity and conceals it (to such an extent) that the left hand does not know what the right has given; and a man who remembers Allaah in solitude 10 and his eyes become tearful. Commentary: The fear of Allaah keeps one away from disobedience of Allaah, the reward of which in the Hereafter is Jannah - a world which abounds in the Bounties and Pleasure of Allaah. Abdullaah bin Ash-Shikhkhir (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: I came to Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) when he was performing prayers. He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) was sobbing and his chest 11 sounded like a boiling kettle. Commentary: This Hadeeth tells us how the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to weep in prayer out of fear of Allaah. To weep in the course of supplication and at the thought of one's appearance before Allaah reflects piety.
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[6] Lack of Remorse after Missing an Obligatory Work, for Example, Salaat (in Jamaaah (Congregation)).
Do you ever or always feel bad whenever you miss an obligatory or highly stressed act of Ibaadah (worship), for example, congregational Salaah (formal prayer)? If you, as a man, say No ! Then check yourself against Spiritual Dryness. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< Guard strictly (the five obligatory) As-Salawaat (the formal prayers) especially the middle Salaat (i.e., the best prayer -Asr). >>
[Suurah 2:238]

<< Verily, the prayer is enjoined on the believers at fixed hours. >>
[Suurah 4: 103]

<< Seek the forgiveness of

[Suurah 11:3]

your Rabb, and turn to Him in repentance. >>

<< O you who believe! Turn to Allaah with sincere repentance! >>
[Suurah 66:8] Buraidah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: He who misses the Asr Salaat (deliberately), his deeds will be rendered 12 null and void. Commentary: It is a serious sin to miss any of the prescribed Saalat deliberately. Some people regard it even an act of Kufr. But the wilful omission of Asr prayer is one of the most serious sins. Its omission nullifies one's good deeds. Observing this Salaat is, therefore, highly essential.
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Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: No Salaat is more burdensome to the hypocrites than the Fajr (dawn) prayer and the Ishaa (night) prayer; and if they knew their merits, they 13 would come to them even if they had to crawl to do so. Commentary: Ishaa and Fajr prayers were, and still are, very hard for the hypocrites for the reason that they performed Salaat only to make a show of it and not for the fear of Allaah. Therefore, Muslims should not show any laziness in them at all, lest they develop a resemblance with the hypocrites.

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[7] Lack of Longing to Visit the House of Allaah in Makkah.

If you have never performed Hajj (correctly) or you have never long to visit the House of Allaah in Makkah to observe Hajj according to the Kitaab and Sunnah, and as understood by the pious predecessors (the Prophet's Companions and their true followers), then you need to fight Spiritual Dryness. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< ...and whoever honours the sacred things (like the Qur-aan, the Kabah,
the Prophets and so on) of Allaah, then that is better for him with his Lord.

>>
[Suurah 22:30]

<< And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Kabah) is a duty that
mankind owes to Allaah, those who can afford the expenses (for one's conveyance, provision and residence); and whoever disbelieves [i.e., denies Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah), then he is a disbeliever in Allaah], then Allaah stands not in need of any of the Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists).>> [Suurah 3:97] Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) was asked: Which deed is the best? He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) replied: Faith in Allaah and His Messenger. Then he was asked: "What is next?'' He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) replied: Jihaad (holy fighting) in the Cause of Allaah. Then he was asked, "What is after that?'' He (Sallallaahu 14 Alayhi Wasallam) replied: Hajj Mabruur (an accepted pilgrimage). Commentary: This Hadeeth points out the fact that Hajj is one of the most prominent
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religious acts, provided it is done sincerely and keeping oneself away from sins. Some people have interpreted the word "Hajj Mabruur'' as an accepted Hajj. They say that the sign of an accepted Hajj is that one becomes a true worshipper of Allaah, which he was previously not. Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: The Messenger of Allaah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Whoever performs Hajj (pilgrimage) and does not have sexual relations (with his wife), nor commits sin (intentionally), nor disputes unjustly (during Hajj), then he would return from Hajj as pure and free from sins as on the 15 day on which his mother gave birth to him. Commentary: The true meaning of "Rafath'' is sexual intercourse but it also signifies obscene and frivolous talk and the expression of sexual desire to one's wife. Since coition with one's wife is forbidden during Hajj, so conversation with her on this subject or talking for amusement is also disliked. "Fisq'' means disobedience of Allaah and quarrelling with people. One must avoid both of them during Hajj. The Hajj which is performed with all these restrictions, has the merit that one is totally purged of sins. But this purification is from sins which come in the category of minor sins and which relate to the Rights of Allaah. Major sins relating to the Rights of Allaah and lapses in respect of the rights of people are not pardoned without sincere repentance and compensation to the aggrieved. Aaishah (Radiyallaahu Anhaa) reported: I said: O Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam)! We consider Jihaad as the best deed, should we not then go for Jihaad? Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: The best Jihaad for you women is Hajj Mabruur (i.e., one accepted by 16 Allaah).

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Commentary: In ordinary circumstances, Hajj is the best of Jihaad for women because in Islaam, politics, economy, government, military affairs etc., come in the purview of men and men alone. Women are exempted from all such matters. However, in case of war, if the need arises, women can be engaged for supply of food, first-aid of the wounded etc., on the internal front, provided they can do such works without crossing the bounds of the Islamic veil. But imparting military training to women and dispatching them to war front are sheer imitations of the western nations for which there is no scope in the teachings of Islaam. This Hadeeth also confirms this view.

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[8] Ceasing the Recitation of the Holy Qur-aan and Grave-yard Visitation Which Reminds Us of a Day of Meeting With Allaah and So on.
Do you used to recite the Qur-aan regularly before but have stopped reading it regularly now? If yes, try to fight Spiritual Dryness. Do you have the opportunity of observing the Sunnah of visiting the Muslim's grave-yard for the only reason to remind yourself of the day that you and I will also be placed in our graves but have stopped observing the Sunnah again? If yes, try to fight Spiritual Dryness. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< O you who believe! Let not your properties or your children divert you
from the remembrance of Allaah. And whosoever does that, then they are the losers. >> [Suurah 63: 9]

<< Do you wonder that there has come to you a Reminder (this Qur-aan)
from your Lord through a man from amongst you, that he may warn you, so that you may fear Allaah and that you may receive (His) Mercy? >> [Suurah 7:63]

<< And (remember) the Day when the Zaalim (wrong-doer, oppressor,
polytheist, etc.) will bite at his hands, he will say: "Oh! Would that I had taken a path with the Messenger ( Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam). "Ah! Woe to me! Would that I had never taken so-and-so as a friend! He indeed led me astray from the Reminder (this Qur-aan) after it had come to me. And Shaitaan (Satan) is ever a deserter to man in the hour of need." And the Messenger (Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) will say: "O my Lord! Verily, my people deserted this Qur-aan (neither listened to it, nor acted on its laws and orders). >> [Suurah 25: 27-30]
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Abuu Muusaa Al-Ashari (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Read the Qur-aan regularly. By the One in Whose Hand Muhammad's soul is, it escapes from memory faster than a camel does from its tying 17 ropes. Commentary: To safeguard the Qur-aan means to recite it regularly, because if one fails to do so, he tends to forget it quickly. In the absence of regular recitation, one is bound to forget it more quickly than a camel breaks loose bound with. The breaking loose by the camel to liberate itself is a simile for the quick process of forgetting. Abuu Muusaa Al-Ashari (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: The believer who recites the Qur-aan is like a citron whose fragrance is sweet and whose taste is delicious. A believer who does not recite the Qur-aan is like a date-fruit which has no fragrance but has a sweet taste. The hypocrite who recites the Qur-aan is like a colocynth whose fragrance is so sweet, but its taste is bitter. The hypocrite who does not recite the 18 Qur-aan is like basil which has no fragrance and its taste is bitter. Commentary: This Hadeeth tells us that a believer who recites the Qur-aan and acts upon it, Allaah will grant him a high rank. He is loved by Allaah and also enjoys public esteem. The believer who does not recite it but acts upon its teachings is also loved by Allaah and people. The hypocrite who recites the Qur-aan to have a good show has an evil and dark mind. Last of all comes that hypocrite who does not recite the Qur-aan and has a dark mind and appearance. Umar bin Al-Khattaab (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
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Verily, Allaah elevates some people with this Qur-aan and abases 19 others. Commentary: Only such people will be elevated who act upon the teachings of the Qur-aan and abstain from what is forbidden by Allaah. The Muslims of the early centuries of Islaam were blessed with great honour by Allaah because they loved and applied the Qur-aan. Because of this meaningful attachment with the Qur-aan, they made great achievements in religious and worldly spheres. Those who neglected the teachings of Islaam will be disgraced and humiliated. May Allaah guides and enables us to re-establish our contact with the Qur-aan so that we can regain our past glory. Exaltation and humiliation mentioned in the Hadeeth is bound to happen in both this life and the Hereafter. Al-Baraa bin Azib (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: A man was reciting Suuratul-Kahf, and a horse was tied with two ropes beside him. As he was reciting, a cloud overshadowed him, and as it began to come nearer and nearer, the horse began to trample violently. The man came to the Messenger of Allaah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) in the morning and mentioned the incident to him. He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: That was tranquillity which descended as a result of the recitation of the 20 Qur-aan. Commentary: This Hadeeth brings out two points. Firstly, the excellence of Suuratul-Kahf (The Cave, Suurah 18). Secondly, the descending of tranquillity from Allaah on the pious persons. The appearance of a cloud for the tranquillity of heart on the recitation of the Qur-aan is a supernatural event (honour) to which a pious man does not make any contribution. It entirely depends on the Will of Allaah. Ibn Abbaas (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Copyright 2011 Abuu Abdus-Salaam
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He who does not memorize any part from the Qur-aan is like a ruined 21 house. Commentary: This Hadeeth means that the heart of that Muslim is devoid of grace of spiritualism and Grace of Allaah who does not remember by heart any portion of the Qur-aan, in the same way as a deserted house is deprived of inhabitants and Blessings of Allaah. What we learn from this is that every Muslim must remember some portion of the Qur-aan so that he is safe from the admonition mentioned in this Hadeeth. Concerning reminder about death, Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning):

<< The mutual rivalry for piling up of worldly things diverts you (from the
remembrance of Allaah), Until you visit the graves (i.e. till you die). Nay! You shall come to know! >> [Suurah 102:1-3]

<< Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and
mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children, as the likeness of vegetation after rain, thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller; afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers, evil-doers), and (there is) Forgiveness from Allaah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers, good-doers), whereas the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment. >> [Suurah 57:20]

<< Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the dominion, and He is Able to do all

things. Who has created death and life, that He may test you which of you is best in deed. And He is the All-Mighty, the Oft-Forgiving. >> [Suurah 67:1-2]
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<< Wheresoever you may be, death will overtake you even if you are in fortresses built up strong and high!>>
[Suurah 4:78]

<< Nay, when (the soul) reaches to the collar bone (i.e. up to the throat in
its exit), And it will be said: "Who can cure him and save him from death?" And he (the dying person) will conclude that it was (the time) of departing (death); And leg will be joined with another leg (shrouded). The drive will be, on that Day, to your Lord (Allaah)! >> [Suurah 75: 26-30]

<< And the stupor of death will come in truth: "This is what you have been avoiding!">>
[Suurah 50:19]

<< Say (to them): "Verily, the death from which you flee will surely meet
you, then you will be sent back to (Allaah) the All-Knower of the unseen and the seen, and He will tell you what you used to do." >> [Suurah 62:8]

<< Everyone shall taste death. And only on the Day of Resurrection shall
you be paid your wages in full. And whoever is removed away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise, he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception (a deceiving thing). >> [Suurah 3:185] Abuu Hurairah (Radiyallaahu Anhu) reported: Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Every Muslim has five rights over another Muslim (i.e., he has to perform five duties for another Muslim): to return the greetings, to visit the sick, to accompany funeral processions, to accept an invitation, to respond to the sneezer [i.e., to say: Yarhamukallaah (may Allaah bestow His Mercy on 22 you), when the sneezer praises Allaah].
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Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Remember much that which cuts off pleasures: Death. Since no one remember it in times of difficulty except that things are made easy for him, nor mentions it at times of ease except that the affairs become constricted for him
23

Prayer When Visiting the Graves of the Muslims: Arabic:

Transliteration: As-Salaamu Alaykum ahlad-Diyyaari minal Mu-mineena wal Muslimeen. Wa innaa inshaa Allaahu bikum laa hiquun. Nas-alullaaha lanaa walakumul aafiyah. Translation: Peace be upon you all, O inhabitants of the graves, amongst the believers and the Muslims. Verily we will, Allaah willing, be united with you (soon), 24 we ask Allaah for well-being for us and you.

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CHAPTER THREE TWENTY-TWO OF THE CAUSES OF SPIRITUAL DRYNESS

1- Abandoning the recitation of the Holy Qur-aan.

<<

And the Messenger (Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) will say: "O my Lord! Verily, my people deserted this Qur-aan (neither listened to it, nor acted on its laws and orders). >> [Suurah 25:30]

<< And whosoever turns away (blinds himself) from the remembrance of
the Most Beneficent (Allaah) (i.e. this Qur-aan and worship of Allaah), We appoint for him Shaitaan (Satan - devil) to be a Qareen (an intimate companion) to him.>> [Suurah 43:36] 2 - Abandoning the application of the Holy Qur-aan.

<< Those (who embraced Islaam from Banee Israa-eel) to whom We gave
the Book [the Tawraat (Torah)] [or those (Muhammad's -Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam- Companions) to whom We have given the Book (the Qur-aan)] recite it (i.e. obey its orders and follow its teachings) as it should be recited (i.e. followed), they are the ones that believe therein. And whoso disbelieves in it (the Qur-aan), those are they who are the losers. (Tafseer Al-Qurtubi. Vol. 2, Page 95). >> [Suurah 2:121]

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3 - Giving wide room for permitted acts above the obligatory ones.

<< O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for the
Salaat (formal prayer) on the day of Friday (Jumah prayer), come to the remembrance of Allaah [Jumah religious talk (Khutbah) and Salaat (formal prayer)] and leave off business (and every other thing), that is better for you if you did but know! Then when the (Jumah) Salaat (formal prayer) is finished, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allaah (by working, etc.), and remember Allaah much, that you may be successful.

>>
[Suurah 62:9-10] 4 - Abandoning of Tahajjud.

<< Verily, the rising by night (for Tahajjud prayer) is very hard and most
potent and good for governing (the soul), and most suitable for (understanding) the Word (of Allaah) ..... Verily, your Lord knows that you (O Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) do stand (to pray at night) a little less than two-thirds of the night, or half the night, or a third of the night, and so do a party of those with you, And Allaah measures the night and the day. He knows that you are unable to pray the whole night, so He has turned to you (in mercy). So, recite you of the Qur-aan as much as may be easy for you. He knows that there will be some among you sick, others travelling through the land, seeking of Allaah's Bounty; yet others fighting in Allaah's Cause. So recite as much of the Qur-aan as may be easy (for you), and perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat) and give Zakaat, and lend to Allaah a goodly loan, and whatever good you send before you for yourselves, (i.e. Nawaafil, non-obligatory acts of worship: prayers, charity, fasting, Hajj and Umrah, etc.), you will certainly find it with Allaah, better and greater in reward. And seek Forgiveness of Allaah. Verily, Allaah is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful. >> [Suurah 73: 6, 20]
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5 - Not performing Salaat at their times.

<< Verily, the prayer is enjoined on the believers at fixed hours.>>

[Suurah 4:103]

<< So woe unto those performers of Salaat (formal prayers) (hypocrites), Who delay their Salaat (formal prayers) from their stated fixed times >>
[Suurah 107:4-5]

6 - Not performing Salaat in the Masjid in Jamaa`ah (congregation).

<< And perform As-Salaat (Iqaamat-as-Salaat), and give Zakaat, and Irka
(i.e. bow down or submit yourselves with obedience to Allaah) along with Ar-Raakiuun (those who bow or submit themselves to Allaah).>> [Suurah 2:43]

7 - Going to Masjid late for Salaat.

<< Race one with another in hastening towards Forgiveness from your Lord
(Allaah), and towards Paradise, the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth, prepared for those who believe in Allaah and His Messengers. That is the Grace of Allaah which He bestows on whom He pleases. And Allaah is the Owner of Great Bounty. >> [Suurah 57:21] Ibn Masuud (Radiyallaahu Anhu) narrated: I asked Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam): What deed is most loved by Allaah? He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:

To offer each prayer as soon as it is due.

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I asked him, Then what? He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:

Treating one's parents with honour and respect.

I asked him, Then what? He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:

Jihaad for the sake of Allaah. 25

8 - Not attending authentic soul-inspiring gatherings of knowledge.

<< Are those who know equal to those who know not? >>
[Suurah 39:9]

<< Allaah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge. >>
[Suurah 58:11] The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:

Seeking knowledge (of Qur-aan and authentic Sunnah) is a duty on every 26 Muslim.

9 - Concentrating on intellectual readings above spiritual ones.

<< Nay, you prefer the life of this world; Although the Hereafter is better and more lasting.>>
[Suurah 87:16-17] 10 - Not giving charity.

<< And spend (in charity) of that with which We have provided you, before
death comes to one of you and he says: "My Lord! If only You would give
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me respite for a little while (i.e. return to the worldly life), then I should give Sadaqah (i.e. Zakaat) of my wealth , and be among the righteous [i.e. perform Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah)].>> [Suurah 63:10]

<< And what is the matter with you that you spend not in the Cause of
Allaah? And to Allaah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. Not equal among you are those who spent and fought before the conquering (of Makkah) (with those among you who did so later). Such are higher in degree than those who spent and fought afterwards. But to all, Allaah has promised the best (reward). And Allaah is All-Aware of what you do. >> [Suurah 57:10]

11- Not visiting graves, hospitals.

<< And if you would count the graces of Allaah, never could you be able to count them. Truly! Allaah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.>>
[Suurah 16:18]

<< Say (to them): "Verily, the death from which you flee will surely meet
you, then you will be sent back (to Allaah), the All-Knower of the unseen and the seen, and He will tell you what you used to do." >> [Suurah 62:8] 12 - Spending more than enough time for earning money.

<< Those are they who have bought the life of this world at the price of the Hereafter. Their torment shall not be lightened nor shall they be helped. >>
[Suurah 2:86]

<< But of mankind there are some who say: "Our Lord! Give us (Your
Bounties) in this world!" and for such there will be no portion in the
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Hereafter. And of them there are some who say: "Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and save us from the torment of the Fire!" For them there will be allotted a share for what they have earned. And Allaah is Swift at reckoning. >> [Suurah 2:200-202] 13 - Marrying to non-religious partner.

<< And do not marry Al-Mushrikaat (idolatresses, etc.) till they believe
(worship Allaah Alone). And indeed a slave woman who believes is better than a (free) Mushrikah (idolatress, etc.), even though she pleases you. And give not (your daughters) in marriage to Al-Mushrikuun till they believe (in Allaah Alone) and verily, a believing slave is better than a (free) Mushrik (idolater, etc.), even though he pleases you. Those (Al-Mushrikuun) invite you to the Fire, but Allaah invites (you) to Paradise and Forgiveness by His Leave, and makes His Aayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) clear to mankind that they may remember. >> [Suurah 2:221]

<< O you who believe! When believing women come to you as emigrants,
examine them, Allaah knows best as to their Faith, then if you ascertain that they are true believers, send them not back to the disbelievers, they are not lawful (wives) for the disbelievers nor are the disbelievers lawful (husbands) for them. But give the disbelievers that (amount of money) which they have spent [as their Mahr] to them. And there will be no sin on you to marry them if you have paid their Mahr to them. Likewise hold not the disbelieving women as wives, and ask for (the return of) that which you have spent (as Mahr) and let them (the disbelievers, etc.) ask back for that which they have spent. That is the Judgement of Allaah. He judges between you. And Allaah is All-Knowing, All-Wise. >> [Suurah 60:10]

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14 - Domestic problems.

<< O you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire
(Hell) whose fuel is men and stones, over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allaah, but do that which they are commanded. >> [Suurah 66:6] The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:

Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for those under
his care. A ruler is a shepherd; a man is the shepherd of his family; a woman is the shepherd of her husband's house and children. For each of you 27 is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for those under his care.

15 - Job related problems.

<< O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single
person (Aadam), and from him (Aadam) He created his wife [Hawwaa (Eve)], and from them both He created many men and women and fear Allaah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights),...>> [Suurah 4:1]

<< Woe to Al-Mutaffifeen [those who give less in measure and weight
(decrease the rights of others)], Those who, when they have to receive by measure from men, demand full measure, And when they have to give by measure or weight to men, give less than due. Think they not that they will be resurrected (for reckoning), On a Great Day, The Day when (all) mankind will stand before the Lord of the Aalameen (mankind, jinns and all that exists)? >> [Suurah 83:1-6]

<< O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for the
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Salaat (formal prayer) on the day of Friday (Jumah prayer), come to the remembrance of Allaah [Jumah religious talk (Khutbah) and Salaat (formal prayer)] and leave off business (and every other thing), that is better for you if you did but know! Then when the (Jumah) Salaat (formal prayer) is finished, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allaah (by working, etc.), and remember Allaah much, that you may be successful.

>>
[Suurah 62:9-10]

<< Say: If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your kindred,
the wealth that you have gained, the commerce in which you fear a decline, and the dwellings in which you delight ... are dearer to you than Allaah and His Messenger, and striving hard and fighting in His Cause , then wait until Allaah brings about His Decision (torment). And Allaah guides not the people who are Al-Faasiquun (the rebellious, disobedient to Allaah).>> [Suurah 9:24] 16 - Not being attentive to recitation of the Holy Qur-aan.

<< And the Messenger (Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) will

say: "O my Lord! Verily, my people deserted this Qur-aan (neither listened to it, nor acted on its laws and orders). >> [Suurah 25:30]

<< So, when the Qur-aan is recited, listen to it, and be silent that you may
receive mercy. [i.e. during the compulsory Congregational prayers when the Imaam (of a Masjid) is leading the prayer (reciting aloud), and also when he is delivering the Friday-prayer Khutbah].>> [Suurah 7:204] << ...and whoever honours the sacred things (like the Qur-aan, the Kabah, the Prophets and so on) of Allaah, then that is better for him with his Lord. >>[Suurah 22:30]
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17- Not identifying with righteous companions and mixing with vain people.

<< O you who believe! Be afraid of Allaah, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds, that is good Muslims.) >>
[Suurah 9:119]

18 - Too much arguments.

<< And argue not with the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians),
unless it be in (a way) that is better (with good words and in good manner, inviting them to Islamic Monotheism with His Verses), except with such of them as do wrong, and say (to them): "We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you; our Ilaah (God) and your Ilaah (God) is One (i.e. Allaah), and to Him we have submitted (as Muslims)." >> [Suurah 29:46]

<< And if they argue with you (as regards the slaughtering of the
sacrifices), say; "Allaah knows best of what you do. "Allaah will judge between you on the Day of Resurrection about that wherein you used to differ." Know you not that Allaah knows all that is in heaven and on earth? Verily, it is (all) in the Book (Al-Lawhul-Mahfuudh). Verily! That is easy for Allaah. >> [Suurah 22:68-70] The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Do not argue (too much) with your brother, do not joke excessively with 28 him, do not make a promise to him then break it

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19 - Lack of self-assessment.

<< And I swear by the self-reproaching person (a believer). >>

[Suurah 75:2]

<< Verily, those who are Al-Muttaquun (the pious), when an evil thought
comes to them from Shaitaan (Satan), they remember (Allaah), and (indeed) they then see (aright). >> [Suurah 7:201]

20 - Too much laughter and jokes.

<< And you laugh at it and weep not, Wasting your (precious) lifetime in pastime and amusements (music, sinful plays, etc.). >>
[Suurah 53:60-61] Aaishah (Radiyallaahu Anhaa) reported: I have never seen Allaah's Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) laughing so heartily that his uvula could be seen. He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) used to smile 29 only. Commentary: To laugh much is one of the sign of indifference to the remembrance of Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa). Besides, the habit of laughing aloud robs away the dignity and impressiveness of a man. 21 - Not lowering the gaze.

<<Tell the believing men to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden
things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts, etc.). That is purer for them. Verily, Allaah is All-Aware of what they do. And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and
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protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts, etc.) and not to show off their adornment except only that which is apparent (like palms of hands or one eye or both eyes for necessity to see the way, or outer dress like veil, gloves, head-cover, apron, etc.), and to draw their veils all over Juyubihinna (i.e. their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms, etc.) and not to reveal their adornment except to their husbands, their fathers, their husband's fathers, their sons, their husband's sons, their brothers or their brother's sons, or their sister's sons, or their (Muslim) women (i.e. their sisters in Islam), or the (female) slaves whom their right hands possess, or old male servants who lack vigour, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment. And all of you beg Allaah to forgive you all, O believers, that you may be successful. >> [Suurah 24:30-31] 22 - Underrating sins. And so on.

<< What is the matter with you? How judge you? Or have you a Book
through which you learn. That you shall have all that you choose? Or you have oaths from Us, reaching to the Day of Resurrection that yours will be what you judge. Ask them, which of them will stand surety for that! Or have they "partners"? Then let them bring their "partners" if they are truthful! (Remember) the Day when the Shin shall be laid bare (i.e. the Day of Resurrection) and they shall be called to prostrate (to Allaah), but they (hypocrites) shall not be able to do so, Their eyes will be cast down, ignominy will cover them; they used to be called to prostrate (offer formal prayers (Salawaat)), while they were healthy and good (in the life of the world, but they did not). Then leave Me Alone with such as belie this Qur-aan. We shall punish them gradually from directions they perceive not. And I will grant them a respite. Verily, My Plan is strong. Or is it that you (O Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) ask them a wage, so that they are heavily burdened with debt? Or that the Ghaib (unseen here in this Verse it means Al-Lawhul-Mahfuudh) is in their hands, so that they can write it down? >> [Suurah 68:36-47] Copyright 2011 Abuu Abdus-Salaam
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CHAPTER FOUR
THIRTEEN (13) OF THE SOLUTIONS TO SPIRITUAL DRYNESS

1- Regular recitation of the Holy Qur-aan with reflection.

<<

Indeed, there has come to you from Allaah a light (Prophet Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) and a plain Book (this Qur-aan). Wherewith Allaah guides all those who seek His Good Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to a Straight Way (Islamic Monotheism). >> [Suurah 5:15-16]

<< And We send down from the Qur-aan that which is a healing (for body
and soul) and a Mercy to those who believe (in Islamic Monotheism and act on it), and it increases the Zaalimuun (polytheists and wrong-doers) nothing but loss. >> [Suurah 17:82]

<< Verily, in the remembrance of Allaah do hearts find rest. >>

[Suurah 13:28]

2 - Congregational Salaat.

<< Successful indeed are the believers. Those who offer their Salaat (formal prayers) with all solemnity and full submissiveness. >>
[Suurah 23:1-2]

<< Recite (O Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) what has been

revealed to you of the Book (the Qur-aan), and perform As-Salaat (Iqaamatus-Salaat). Verily, As-Salaat (the formal prayer) prevents from AlCopyright 2011 Abuu Abdus-Salaam http://islamicmuslimsproductsfinder.com/ 40

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Fahshaa (i.e. great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse, etc.) and Al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil wicked deed, etc.) and the remembering (praising, etc.) of (you by) Allaah (in front of the angels) is greater indeed [than your remembering (praising, etc.) Allaah in prayers, etc.]. And Allaah knows what you do. >> [Suurah: 29:45] Abdullaah ibn Masuud said: Whoever aspires to meet Allaah as a Muslim, let him uphold the habit of attending prayers whenever the call to prayer is given. Allaah has shown your Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) the way of guidance, and these prayers (in the Masjid) are part of that way. If you pray in your homes like this man who stayed in his home, then you have abandoned the Sunnah of your Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), and if you have abandoned the Sunnah of your Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), then you have gone astray. There was a time when the only type of person who would stay at home at the time of prayer (without valid reason) was the one who is known to be a hypocrite. At that time, a man would be brought 30 supported by two others, until he stood in the row of worshipers.

3 - Going to the Masjid early for Salaat.

<< Race one with another in hastening towards Forgiveness from your Lord
(Allaah), and towards Paradise, the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth, prepared for those who believe in Allaah and His Messengers. That is the Grace of Allaah which He bestows on whom He pleases. And Allaah is the Owner of Great Bounty. >> [Suurah 57:21]

<< In houses (Masaajid), which Allaah has ordered to be raised (to be

cleaned, and to be honoured), in them His Name is glorified in the mornings and in the afternoons or the evenings, Men whom neither trade nor sale diverts them from the Remembrance of Allaah (with heart and tongue), nor
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from performing As-Salaat (Iqamatus-Salaat), nor from giving the Zakaat. They fear a Day when hearts and eyes will be overturned (from the horror of the torment of the Day of Resurrection). That Allaah may reward them according to the best of their deeds, and add even more for them out of His Grace. And Allaah provides without measure to whom He wills. >> [Suurah 24:36-38]

4 - Avoidance of vain talk, arguments.

<<And those who turn away from Al-Laghw (dirty, false, evil vain talk, falsehood, and all that Allaah has forbidden). >>
[Suurah 23:3]

<< And when they hear Al-Laghw (dirty, false, evil vain talk), they
withdraw from it and say: "To us our deeds, and to you your deeds. Peace be to you. We seek not the ignorant." >> [Suurah 28:55]

5- Lowering of gaze.

<< Tell the believing men to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden
things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts, etc.). That is purer for them. Verily, Allaah is All-Aware of what they do. And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts, etc.)...>> [Suurah 24:30-31]

6 - Righteous companionship with Muslims.

<< O you who believe! Take not My enemies and your enemies (i.e.
disbelievers and polytheists, etc.) as friends, showing affection towards
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them, while they have disbelieved in what has come to you of the truth (i.e. Islamic Monotheism, this Qur-aan, and Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), and have driven out the Messenger (Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) and yourselves (from your homeland) because you believe in Allaah your Lord! If you have come forth to strive in My Cause and to seek My Good Pleasure, (then take not these disbelievers and polytheists, etc., as your friends). You show friendship to them in secret, while I am All-Aware of what you conceal and what you reveal. And whosoever of you (Muslims) does that, then indeed he has gone (far) astray, (away) from the Straight Path. Should they gain the upper hand over you, they would behave to you as enemies, and stretch forth their hands and their tongues against you with evil, and they desire that you should disbelieve. Neither your relatives nor your children will benefit you on the Day of Resurrection (against Allaah). He will judge between you. And Allaah is the All-Seer of what you do....Allaah does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allaah loves those who deal with equity. It is only as regards those who fought against you on account of religion, and have driven you out of your homes, and helped to drive you out, that Allaah forbids you to befriend them. And whosoever will befriend them, then such are the Zaalimuun (wrong-doers those who disobey Allaah).>> [Suurah 60:1-3, 8-9]

7 - Continuous acts of charity (Sadaqah).

<< Kind words and forgiving of faults are better than Sadaqah (charity)
followed by injury. And Allaah is Rich (Free of all wants) and He is MostForbearing. O you who believe! Do not render in vain your Sadaqah (charity) by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men, and he does not believe in Allaah, nor in the Last Day. His likeness is the likeness of a smooth rock on which is a little dust; on it falls heavy rain which leaves it bare. They are not able to do
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anything with what they have earned. And Allaah does not guide the disbelieving people. And the likeness of those who spend their wealth seeking Allaah's Pleasure while they in their ownselves are sure and certain that Allaah will reward them (for their spending in His Cause), is the likeness of a garden on a height; heavy rain falls on it and it doubles its yield of harvest. And if it does not receive heavy rain, light rain suffices it. And Allaah is All-Seer of (knows well) what you do.>> [Suurah 2:263-265]

8 - Voluntary fasting.

<< Verily, the Muslims (those who submit to Allaah in Islam) men and
women, the believers men and women (who believe in Islamic Monotheism), the men and the women who are obedient (to Allaah), the men and women who are truthful (in their speech and deeds), the men and the women who are patient (in performing all the duties which Allaah has ordered and in abstaining from all that Allaah has forbidden), the men and the women who are humble (before their Lord Allaah), the men and the women who give Sadaqaat (i.e. Zakaat, and alms, etc.), the men and the women who observe Saum (fast) (the obligatory fasting during the month of Ramadaan, and the optional Nawaafil fasting), the men and the women who guard their chastity (from illegal sexual acts) and the men and the women who remember Allaah much with their hearts and tongues (while sitting, standing, lying, etc. for more than 300 times extra over the remembrance of Allaah during the five compulsory Congregational prayers) or praying extra additional Nawaafil prayers of night in the last part of night, etc.) Allaah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise). >> [Suurah 33:35] In an Hadeeth Qudsi, the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) reported that Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) said:

< ... My slave continues to draw near to Me with supererogatory works so

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that I will love him. When I love him, I am his hearing with which he hears, his seeing with which he sees, his hand with which he strikes, and his foot with which he walks. Were he to ask (something) of Me, I would surely give it to him; and were he to ask Me for refuge, I would surely grant him it. > [Al-Bukhaaree] 9 - Supplications (Duaa).

<< And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi

Wasallam) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led aright. >> [Suurah 2:186]

<< And your Lord said: "Invoke Me, [i.e. believe in My Oneness (Islamic
Monotheism)] (and ask Me for anything) I will respond to your (invocation). Verily! Those who scorn My worship [i.e. do not invoke Me, and do not believe in My Oneness, (Islamic Monotheism)] they will surely enter Hell in humiliation!" >> [Suurah 40:60] 10 - Morning and Evening remembrance of Allaah (Dhikr).

<< O you who believe! Remember Allaah with much remembrance. And
glorify His Praises morning and afternoon [the early morning (Fajr) and Asr prayers]. >> [Suurah 33:41-42]

<< And remember your Lord by your tongue and within yourself, humbly
and with fear without loudness in words in the mornings, and in the afternoons and be not of those who are neglectful.>> [Suurah 7:205]
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SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM

11 - Reflection over sins.

<< And those who, when they have committed Faahishah (illegal sexual
intercourse etc.) or wronged themselves with evil, remember Allaah and ask forgiveness for their sins; - and none can forgive sins but Allaah - And do not persist in what (wrong) they have done, while they know. For such, the reward is Forgiveness from their Lord, and Gardens with rivers flowing underneath (Paradise), wherein they shall abide forever. How excellent is this reward for the doers (who do righteous deeds according to Allaah's Orders). >> [Suurah 3:135-136]

<< Verily, those who are Al-Muttaquun (the pious), when an evil thought
comes to them from Shaitaan (Satan), they remember (Allaah), and (indeed) they then see (aright). >> [Suurah 7:201] The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: Any servant (of Allaah, i.e. a Muslim) who commits a sin and as a result (feels ashamed and), performs ablution, prays two rakahs of formal prayer 31 and then seeks Allaah's forgiveness, Allaah would forgive him.

12 - Reading the life history of the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam), the Companions (Radiyallaahu anhum ajmaeen) and those who truly followed their footsteps among the past scholars of 'Islaam (Rahimahumullaahu ajmaeen).

<< And We left for them (a goodly remembrance) among generations (to
come) in later times; Verily, thus do We reward the Muhsinuun (good-doers see S.2:112).>> [Suurah 37:119,121]
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SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM

<<Truly, this is the supreme success! For the like of this let the workers work. >>
[Suurah 37:60-61] 13 - Striving to copy the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) and His companions.

<< Indeed in the Messenger of Allaah (Muhammad - Sallallaahu Alayhi

Wasallam) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allaah and the Last Day and remembers Allaah much.>> [Suurah 33:21]

<< And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger (Muhammad Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and follows other than the believers' (the Prophet's Companions) way. We shall keep him in the path he has chosen, and burn him in Hell - what an evil destination.>> [Suurah 4:115]

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SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM

CONCLUSION

Allaah (Subhaanahu Wata Aalaa) says (interpretation of the meaning): << O you who believe! Answer Allaah (by obeying Him) and (His) Messenger (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) when he (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) calls you to that (Striving in Islaam) which will give you life (Spiritual Wealth), and know that Allaah comes in between a person and his heart (i.e. He prevents an evil person to decide anything). And verily to Him you shall (all) be gathered.>> [Suurah 8:24]
May Allaah (Subhaanahu Wataaalaa) assist you and I, and help us overcome Spiritual Dryness in Islaam, Aameen.

Very Important and Highly Useful Islamic Books for You:

(1) Allaah His Introduction. (2) Muslim Prayers for Everyday Success.

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SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM

BIBLOGRAPHY:
1 - The Noble Qur-aan translated into the modern English Language by Dr. Muhammad Taqi-ud-Din Al-Hilali, Ph.D. & Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan. 2 Riyaadus-Saaliheen, Compiled By Al-Imaam Abuu Zakariyya Yahyaa bin Sharaf An-Nawawee Ad-Dimashqee (See: http://www.witnesspioneer.org/vil/hadeeth/riyad/default.htm) 3 Islamic Affairs Council, MSSN OAU ILE-IFE, NIGERIA.

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SPIRITUAL DRYNESS IN ISLAAM

REFERENCES:
1 - Narrated by Al-Bukhaaree (16) and Muslim (43) 2 - Al-Bukhaari and Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, Chapter 192, Hadeeth # 1073. 3 - Al-Bukhaaree, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 16, Hadeeth #158 4 - Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 16, Hadeeth #159 5 - An-Nawawee's Forty Hadeeth No. 41 (p. 124) 6 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see Riyaadus-Saaliheen, Chapter 182, Hadeeth # 1008. 7 - At-Tirmidhee, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, Chapter 241, Hadeeth #1384. 8 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see also, Riyadus-Saaliheen, chapter 54, Hadeeth # 447. 9 - At-Tirmidhee, see also, Riyadus-Saaliheen, chapter 54, Hadeeth # 448. 10 - Al-Bukharee and Muslim, see also, Riyadus-Saaliheen, chapter 54, Hadeeth # 449. 11 - Abuu Daawuud and At-Tirmidhee, see also, Riyadus-Saaliheen, chapter 54, Hadeeth # 450. 12 - Al-Bukharee, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 188, Hadeeth # 1052. 13 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 188, Hadeeth # 1073. 14 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 233, Copyright 2011 Abuu Abdus-Salaam
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Hadeeth # 1273. 15 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 233, Hadeeth # 1274. 16 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 233, Hadeeth # 1276. 17 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see also Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 181, Hadeeth #1002. 18 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 180, Hadeeth # 995. 19 - Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 180, Hadeeth # 996. 20 - Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 180, Hadeeth # 998. 21 - At-Tirmidhi, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 180, Hadeeth # 1000. 22 - Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, chapter 144, Hadeeth #895. 23 - Saheehul Jaami'us-Sagheer, no. 1222. 24 - Muslim 2/671 25 - Bukhaaree and Muslim 26 Bukhaaree 27 - Bukhaaree and Muslim 28 - Reported by Al-Bukhaaree in al-Aadab al-Mufrad 29 - Al-Bukhaari and Muslim, see also, Riyaadus-Saaliheen, Chapter 93, Hadeeth # 703. 30 Muslim
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31 - Saheeh Al-Jaami 5/173

Subhaanallaahi wabihamdihi, Subhaanakallaahumma wabihamdik, Ashhadu anlaa ilaaha illaa Anta, Astaghfiruka Wa Atuubu ilayk.

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