Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat Allah Wabarakatu:

At Fajr, I got the girls on the bus for school.  Made the coffee and sat down to check my email and read up what’s going on in this world.  Before I got the scoop on this donia, I ironically was again reminded of the akhira.  Subhan’Allah.  Insha’Allah, I need to share with you, what was shared with me… 

A friend from back home, living now in Maryland sent me of a very recent update written by another sister from Maryland, currently in the grave who completed hajj this past season.  May Allah have mercy on her, pour light in her grave, and grant her Firdous, ameen.  Her letter has been forward throughout the Muslim Ummah of Maryland, USA.  However, I am posting it here (without the use of authentic names*) in hopes the good words she used towards our Ummah, the true spirit of Islam, and ultimately the beauty of Allah’s Rahmah (Mercy) will be considered an ongoing sadaqah charity for her.  Also to include her in your duaa today;  May Allah have mercy on her, pour light in her grave, grant her shade on the Day, and bless her with Firdous. Ameen.

“All-
What can I say?! Hajj was the most blessed, loving and healing experience that I have ever had. Yes, a once in a lifetime dream come true, and that is if I could dream so fabulously. Up until the experience, I thought I could. But this has even exceeded my best of dreams. Alhumdulilah! I’m going to tell you in advance that this update might be long. I’m just thinking that I have soooooooo much to share. So get comfortable and forgive me for being wordy! (smile)From the beginning. My trip began in Egypt. We flew out of JFK, NY and flew Egypt Air. What a horrible flight. It’s cramped and so did my legs and everyone was coughing and hacking and sneezing. The flight is 9 hours and although I wore a mask which many fellow flyers shared with me that that was a great idea. To this day my legs are still recovering. So a little advice, if you every fly Egypt Air I encourage you to get two seats. They don’t charge you more. They understand the need. But unless you ask, forget about it. Some of you know my parents live in Egypt. My dad and my stepmother as well as my niece Laila. And I just fell in love with her. We are now BFF! Gotta love that. She is graduating from high school this year 2008. Wanting to attend my Alma Motta The University of Maryland. And wanting to hang out with her Aunts Moi and my sister Zeinab* who lives less than 15 minutes away from me. Gotta love that even more. In all of these years I have never had one conversation with Leeyan*. And I’ve always wanted to do so. So by the grace of Allah, we got the opportunity and I just love her. We have a shared experience, both being raised by my stepmother. And those of you who know me, know that there has been some shall we say “issues” surrounding that upbringing. Remember when I sent you all that e-mail asking for forgiveness prior to hajj? And thank you for graciously responding. I saw this as an opportunity to talk with my stepmother and do the same. We hadn’t spoken in over 30 years! WOW! I know! I engaged her and she responded. She was hesitant at first, which is understandable since she really doesn’t know me. But we spoke for hours. It was healing and cleansing in that we now have a better understanding of each other. And it was down and dirty as my sister would say. We talked about everything. Leeyan was present which was great in itself, because she like me could benefit from understanding. By the way her name is Maryam* but we call her Ummi, which means mother in Arabic. For years I rejected calling her Ummi. But Alhumdulilah, its cool now. See how blessed this trip was?! Ummi and I embraced like we have never done. I asked her for forgiveness and not only did she forgive me but she turned right back around and asked for my forgiveness. How awesome is that. It was a love/healing fest. Afterwards, Ummi said it was a wonderful “session” which is the perfect word to describe it. Then she hugged and kissed me like she had never done. It was sweet and motherly. How wonderful was that! So this is how my trip began. Healing and love from the very beginning. I neglected to state that Dad and Ummi live in a fabulous home in New Cairo and I would expect nothing less from her. She has always had exquisite taste.It was during this very short visit, about 3 days that I got sick. I completely lost my voice. I mean nothing was coming out. No sound. My legs were cramping and I was a mess! In retrospect it was indeed an ar-rahma = blessing from Allah. That I will explain later. However, Ummi cared for me. Even gave me her warm pjs, which I took with me to jajj. Made me soup and well, It was just beautiful. Really cool. I slept one complete day. Didn’t realize it until I awakened that I had spent no time with father. Insha-Allah, on the way back.So Ummi and Leeyan took us to the airport. We flew from Egypt to Medina and then flew first class to Jeddah. I’ve never flown first class before. So it was a treat. Those reclining seats were as wide as a twin bed. Gave my legs needed stretching room. It was cool. This is where hajj really hits you. Everyone on board is headed to make hajj. We are all reciting aloud a prayer answering Allah’s call to make hajj. That is everyone, even the pilot! So cool. We Muslims believe that only Allah determines who make hajj. In fact when you return you hear of countless stories of folks who never got there; were turned away at the airport or something. So we believe that hajj is an invitation from Allah. And you feel it. You feel as though Allah is calling you home. Now I know I’m just going to cry now. The thought of the realization frankly overwhelms me. I am so grateful for the blessing of hajj.

We traveled with “darelsalam” travel. I highly recommend them to those of you who are thinking of making hajj. They were incredible. They took about 2 thousand American citizens from all over the country. And countless Canadians. It is a little pricy but worth every penny. First class all the way. Including the knowledge and teaching and Love. More love than I could ever describe. At every point of travel, even at JFK, there was a darelsalam representative there awaiting our arrival to assist us. By this time my legs were shot and I had no voice so they were indeed needed. And they rose to the occasion. I’m not sure how many buses there were but we were on bus 27. When hubbie and I entered the bus, the Imam stopped everything and made an announcement. He said to everyone, “I want you all to know that Allah will answer all of your prayers because of YOU! And he looked at me and pointed to me. Now remember, I don’t know this man or anyone else except for hubbie. I looked at hubbie and said, is he talking about me? What did I do. He then responded to me as if he could read the expression on my face since remember, I had no voice. He said yes you, “Sister Jawharah*!”. Allah has blessed us with you. I just started balling. What else could I do. Later I understood what he was saying. I was visibly ill. In Islam, sickness is an ar-rahma=blessing from Allah. Since it brings you closer to Allah and is indeed a cleansing and expiation of sins. That is what Muslims believe. Caring for the ill or sick is also looked at as an ar-rahma from Allah. It is a blessing to care for the sick. So what he was saying was that Allah blessed them with me because Allah has given them me to care for during the very special journey of Hajj. How beautiful is that! And boy did they rise to the occasion. My sisters in Islam were fabulous. I was hugged and kissed and such kind words were said to me. When I wasn’t crying happy tears I was hugging someone. At Arafat, our first stop after paying a visit to the Kaba. Women and men were in separate tents. Our tent was beautiful. The sisters had set up a bed for me in the back. Remember the movie ‘Pretty Woman’ with Julia Roberts? The seen where she is shopping? Well that’s how it was. Except for me they were all doctors surrounding me. Taking my pulse checking my eyes. It was too funny. They all thought that my apparent illness was due to cancer but I had no voice to tell them that I just got ’sick’ in Egypt(-cancer symptoms had literally just begun-)! It was days before I could explain that I walk 3.5 miles a day at home. I’m fine! Just have a cold of some sort! It was just too funny. I later found out that they thought I was much younger. Said I looked like I was in my twenties. Imagine there surprise when I told them that I was 43! Now that was funny. The conversation began, “Sister Jawharah* how long have you been married? It is so obvious how much your husband loves you. Alhumdulilah” To which I responded 15 years. The next question or statement was that I shouldn’t have gotten married so young. They thought I was a newlywed, given Hubbie’s attentiveness. I said no, hubbie is always like this he is just on steroids this trip! But I’m 43 and I did not get married young. That was funny. My sisters were shocked. When they found out that I walk 3 plus miles a day, they were even more surprised. But this gave me opportunity to talk about IBC. To talk about non-traditional healing techniques. Only one out of the many doctors had ever heard of IBC. So through sign language and one sister sitting close enough to both hear and read my lips repeating what I was saying aloud. It was indeed an educational opportunity. And they were all lovingly attentive. Alhumdulilah. So they understood that although I was a metestatic breast cancer patient, I was not symptomatic. Very impressed. And very thankful to Allah. All of them prayed for me the entire trip. And told me so. One sister told her husband who is pictured extensively on Egyptian television. I look up and she is introducing me to him. He asked some question about my health and the next thing I know he is on the mic to the entire group Americans and Canadians, telling them all bout me. Saying a prayer for me and asking them to join him. I’m just balling again. All of these people were praying for me. It was amazing. And everyday, I felt so much love. It was as if Allah was personally embracing me. I felt it. It was like hubbie times a million. A love that I can’t fully describe. Followed up with acts and words of love and kindness from all of these people. It was the most amazing feeling. Remember when I told you that me getting sick in Egypt was an Ar-Rahma from Allah? Well indeed. It felt like not only did Allah want me to feel his love, but he wanted me to in addition feel it from his greatest creation, mankind. They were awesome. The thought of there kindness continues to bring tears to my eyes. Some of the things that were shared and said to me were profoundly loving. So very amazing.

I can’t describe seeing the Kaba for the first time. This is were all Muslims face at least 5 times a day in prayer. All Muslims, no matter where you are in the world. And here you are, standing in front of it with 4 million others from all over the world. The diversity is heart warming. Pilgrims from Tunisia, China, many parts of Africa, Greece, the U.S., Switzerland, etc. You have never seen such diversity ever at a gathering. All dressed in white. Absolutely beautiful. Ummi shared a story during her hajj where she met a family complete with babies and little ones, a pot for cleaning and food preparation, rice and meal, that had walked from Chad! Yes, walked from Chad. It took 2 years but they made it. Amazing! You see the pilgrims all over. They have there tents and sleep in the street. You literally walk over them. And I know what you think. Saudi Arabia is a desert. Well know it isn’t. Mecca is a major city. If you want to see sand you gotta look for it. At night we stayed at The Hilton. Yes, the Hilton, complete with room service. And so did many others. The Kaba is surrounded by high rise buildings/hotels. Name the hotel, it is there. So are KFC, Burger King and McDonalds. Name the fast food restaurant and it is there. I don’t think I saw any sand. It is a major city. Its doors are open to the pilgrims of hajj and they city belongs to us. Shopping is amazing. From the 22 karat gold to the scarves and Islamic clothing. Things that would cost us 440+ dollars here cost 7-10 dollars there. I wasn’t able to do much shopping but hubbie did some. Awesome deals. The dollar may be tanking but it does well in the east.One of the most amazing things for a Muslim in the U.S. is to hear the call to prayer live 5 times a day. Brought tears to my eyes every time. And when it begins, everything stops. I mean everything. The escalator stops running! If you are in the middle of a transaction at the store or restaurant, it stops until after prayer. My sister-in-law coined a fraise; “stop, drop and pray”! There is no other way to describe it. Everyone stops to pray right there and when prayer is over, life continues. As a Muslim all I can say is Alhumdulilah to that. I just loved it.

At the end you say goodbye to the holy city. I didn’t want to leave. I felt the urge to stay. It was strong. Didn’t want to leave that ever embracing love. Alhumdulilah, I still feel it but I want to go back. It was like a Muslim Woodstock with millions more and all the love plus some. So very awesome.

You can only imagine the goodbyes to all of our newly met family. Upon my suggestion we put together a contact list and I’ve received several e-mails already. Hubbie and I were also invited to attend an opening of an orphanage in Egypt. The project and dream of our group leader, Qasim*. There is such a need and he is raising money for it. I pray that Allah will answer his prayers and bless him with this orphanage. It is such a worthy cause. He not only asked us to come as his honored guest when it opens but he asked me to speak. How funny is that. I had no voice throughout the entire trip. And since this opening is scheduled to receive wide media attention internationally, Qasim* said that he would help me use this platform to talk more about IBC and my concern about breast cancer spreading throughout African and the east. How awesome is that. Hear that Dr. Laveen*? That means I need data! Gotta love that. I’ll let you all know when. And if you want to contribute to the orphanage let me know.So we completed hajj and returned to Egypt to hang out with the folks. Well it was very different this time. Although my voice was improving, you could hear some sound. Ummi, Leeyan* and I ran the streets. Talk about shop until you drop. We had a blast. These prices were better than Saudi. And Ummi knew everything. Did I mention that she is as cute as a button and Laila is a very attractive young lady and she has a different look compared to the other Egyptians. Ummi actually looks Egyptian. I can’t tell you how many women I saw at the Egypt airport that looked just like her. Her and Leeyan* speak the language fluently and they are experts in haggling/negotiating price which is part of the culture. It is assumed that you will do so. So between Ummi and Leeyan* I was in great hands. Laila had anyone under 20 years old eating out of her hands. Know that only men are at the stores selling stuff although the women are shopping. Leeyan* would give them that look or pout! They didn’t know what hit them. And everyone else was at Ummi’s mercy. They would simply say to me, how much do you want to spend. Goodness. When I say shopped until I dropped I mean it. We had a blast! I didn’t know Ummi was such a shopper. We could hang out all the time. She is one of us! I told my shopping girls upon my return home that they had to visit. Ummi and Leeyan* are shoppers just like us and they believe in getting the best deal. The hijab that I would buy here costs 30-70 dollars. In Egypt it was 1-3 dollars! Stop the madness. And gorgeous silks and silk blends. I must have purchased at least 50. But don’t tell hubbie! (smile). So needless to say, returning to Egypt was even more bonding at a female level – shopping! Good food and shopping. You might be shocked to hear that the malls are the same here, complete with starbucks and cinibun! By the way, Egypt or New and Old Cairo are the same. Looking for sand you gotta look for it. Visiting the pyramids was as simple as driving down town DC and looking at the monument. Part of the city skyline, the pyramids are magnificent. So we took pictures standing next to them and on a camel. Yes, I got on a camel. As I was doing so with hubbie,my brain said to me, “Jawharah*, what are you doing?! I just asked it to give me a minute and indeed it did, Alhumdulilah. What I neglected to say was this was my first airplane ride since breast cancer and brain surgeries. You know when you are on an airplane and your ears pop? Well my ears didn’t pop but my brain did. I can’t explain it but it is as horrible as it sounds. Alhumdulilah I survived it and I’m home. I feel fabulous. My legs or really its only my left leg is getting better daily and my voice is slowly returning. Saw my naturalpath today and is scheduled to see my PCP this Friday. MRI of the brain is scheduled for Tuesday the 8th Insha-Allah. Insha-Allah. I’m just so grateful. Wow!Now although hubbie and I didn’t take any pictures many did including Ummi of us at the pyramids. So my sisters and brothers in Islam have been sending me pictures. Hubbie and I may be in one or two. So when I figure out how to send you the link, Insha-Allah I will do so. Look for the Update that has pictures in the subject line.Have a happy New Year, Insha-Allah. Love you all.Hajjah Jawharah* – too funny! Alhumdulilah!”

I wonder if she ever got to send those pictures? Maybe not, but hopefully, by Allah’s Mercy she’s viewing more beautiful ones of her placement in Jannah..while she awaits Ressurection Day. Let’s try our best to earn beautiful scenes when we are buried down awaiting in al-barzakh.
                                                  

                                                                                                                              …and Allah Knows Best.

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat Allah Wabarakatu:

Certainly there are appointed Angels working in these processes, masha’Allah.   Sick of reading gossipish news and things going wrong with the Muslims of today’s Ummah? Get refreshed and check out these articles.  We need to be more motivated and not all fogged up.  Don’t forget the Thikr these days especially…we may not live days in this donia, of this importance again…

http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=104531&d=12&m=12&y=2007

http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=104529&d=12&m=12&y=2007&pix=kingdom.jpg&category=Kingdom

suhaa

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat Allah Wabarakatu:

Masha’Allah, this was one of the best articles I’ve read about Dhul-Hijjah.  Growing up in the US, I was always taught that Eid al-Adha is bigger than Eid al-Fitr, but honestly, I wasn’t too convinced of it because I think for whatever reason it was just downplayed. I wonder if it’s because people seemed to be more motivated for Ramadan as full month while Dhul-Hijjah is only 10 days-ahh, the tricks of Shaitan ar-Rajeem, may Allah protect us from the workers and kufr of Iblees, whom aim at placing our goals in life ahead of our goals for the akhira.

I’ve heard when all the hujjaj are out of Madinah by the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, I might be able to actually enter Masjid an-Nabawi insha’Allah.  2 nights ago we were driving towards there and the streets weren’t busier than usual, so as naieve as I am I said to my husband “Maybe we’ll be able to enter for zamzam tonight insha’Allah.” I mean we weren’t going at the last minute before the Iqama (2nd adhan) or anything, and during Ramadan if we went early enough we could get a spot inside. He’s gone for hajj alhamdulilah, so he looked at me with a smirk and said that if he’s able to pray Isha on the courtyard that would be a blessing from Allah in itself! I remained optimistic though.  We got to underground parking garage & I still thought maybe. I mean we were the only ones on the escalator heading up with the kids.  Buth thinking back, that would make sense because hujjaj tend not to drive here! (DUH!) If I told you that we barely took 10 steps to the right and sat down to await the salah, I would be exaggerating…closer to 5 feet.  We literally prayed infront of the stairwell and the only glimpse I got of Masjid an-Nabawi was when we were driving back home, Subhan’Allah. Being a Hajji-wannabe, it was actually an eman booster to be amongst the millions in these holy cities and reminded me to be more grateful that I can witness such a beautiful array of diversity on a much larger scale my eyes have ever seen-all coming here for one purpose..to worship Allah while sending their peace on our beloved Rasullilah (as). May Allah accept it from them. 

Countdown is on, tomorrow, by Allah’s Will, it begins! Please read, benefit & pass on the knowledge…don’t forget to apply it inshaAllah!

Taken from:  http://www.missionislam.com/knowledge/dhul%20hijjah.htm

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Compiled by Shawana A. Aziz

The month of Dhul-Hijjah is a season of worship, and seasons of worship bring along blessings, benefits and opportunities to correct one’s faith and make up for shortcoming. Every one of these special opportunities involves some kind of worship, which brings the slave closer to his Lord. And Allah bestows His blessings and Favors on whom He wills. The fortunate person is he who makes good use of these special months, days, and hours, while worshiping Allah. He is most likely to be touched by the blessings of Allah. [Ibn Rajab, al-Lataa’if pp. 8]

The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are marked blessed for both, the pilgrims and the non-pilgrims. Rewards of good deeds are multiplied in these days. Imaam Ibn Qayyim (rahimahullah) (d. 751H) said: “Indeed, its days are the most excellent of all the days with Allah. It has been confirmed in Saheeh al-Bukharee from Ibn Abbas (radhi allahu anhu) that the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “No deed are more virtuous than deeds on these days.” The companions asked: ‘Not even Jihad (fighting in Allah’s Cause)?’ He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) replied: “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah, unless a man goes out risking himself and his wealth for the sake of Allah, and does not come back with anything.” [Saheeh al-Bukharee vol: 2, no: 457] And it is these ten days, of which Allah takes an oath saying: “By the dawn; by the ten nights.” [Soorah al-Fajr (89): 1-2] This is why it is recommended to increase in making Takbeer, Tahlil and Tamhid during these days.” [Zaad al-Ma’aad vol: 1, pp: 56]

Yawm al-Arafat: The 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah is the day of Arafat. It is this day when the pilgrims gather on the mountain plain of Arafat, praying and supplicating to their Lord.

The day of Arafat holds great importance in Islam since this is the Day when Allah completed his revelation on His Messenger (sallahu alaihe wa-sallam). It is reported in the Saheehayn (i.e. Saheeh al-Bukharee and Saheeh Muslim), from Umar Ibn al-Khattab (radhi allahu anhu) that a Jewish man said to him: “O Ameer al-Mumineen (O head of the Muslims)! There is a verse in the Qur’aan, which if was revealed on us, the Jews, we would have taken that day as an Eid (festival).” Umar asked: “Which verse?” He said: “This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” [Soorah al-Maidah (5): 3] Umar (radhi allahu anhu) said: “We know on which day and in which place was this verse revealed to Allah’s Messenger (sallahu alaihe wa-sallam). It was when he was standing in Arafat on a Friday.”

Arafat is the day on which Allah took the covenant from the progeny of Adam (alaihis-salaam), it was reported that Ibn Abbas (radhi allahu anhu) narrated: “The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) related: “(When Allah created Adam (alaihis-salaam) Allah took covenant from him in a place Na’maan on the day of Arafat, then He extracted from him all the descendants who would be born until the end of the world, generation after generation, and spread them out in front of Him in order to take a covenant from them also. He spoke to them face to face saying: “Am I not your Lord?” and they all replied: “Yes, we testify to it.” Allah then explained why He had all of mankind bear witness that He was their Creator and only true God worthy of worship. He said: “That was in case you (mankind) should say on the Day of Resurrection, ‘Surely, we were unaware of this. We had no idea that You, Allah, were our Lord. No one told us that we were only supposed to worship You.” …” [(Saheeh) by Shaikh al-Albanee in Silsilah al-Ahaadeeth as-Saheehah vol: 4, no: 1623] Indeed, the day of Arafat is a blessed day and there is no other covenant greater than this covenant!

Arafat is a day of Forgiveness from sins, freedom from the Hell-Fire for the people who are present in the plain of Arafat. Aa’ishah (radhi allahu anha) narrated the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) saying: “There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than the day of Arafat. He comes close and expresses His pride to the angels saying, ‘What do these people (the Hajis) want?’” [Saheeh Muslim]

This Haadeeth mentions forgiveness for the pilgrims. In addition to this, fasting on the day of Arafat is a Sunnah and an expiation of sins for the residents.

Hunaydah ibn Khaalid reported from his wife that some of the wives of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) used to fast on the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah, on the day of Aashoorah, on three days of each month, and on the first two Mondays and Thursdays of each month.” [(Saheeh) by Shaikh al-Albanee in Saheeh Abi Dawood vol: 2, no: 462]

It is reported in Saheeh Muslim that when the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was asked about the fasting on the day of Arafat, he said: “It expiates the sins of the previous year and that of the following year.” [Saheeh Muslim] This fasting is Mustahabb only for the non-pilgrims and not for the Hajis (the pilgrims) because it was not the practice of Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) to fast on the day of Arafat during pilgrimage and in a narration he also forbade doing so. Imaam at-Tirmidhee (rahimahullah) (d. 275H) said: “The People of Knowledge consider it recommended (Mustahabb) to fast on the day of Arafat, except for those at Arafat.” [Jaami’ut-Tirmidhee (3/377)]

Yawm an-Nahr: The tenth day of Dhul-Hijjah is the greatest day of Hajj. It is known as Yawm an-Nahr (the day of Sacrifice), since it marks the ending of the major rite of Hajj - the Sacrifice. And it is on this day that the Muslims commemorate the bounties and blessings of Allah. It was recorded in a Hadeeth by Imaam Ahmad (in his Musnad vol: 4, no: 350) that the day of Nahr is the most virtuous day to Allah. The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “The greatest day of Hajj (Pilgrimage) is the Day of an-Nahr (Slaughtering).” [(Saheeh) by Shaikh al-Albanee in Irwa al-Ghaleel (no: 1101). Abu Dawood no: 1945]

Imaam Ibn Taymiyyah (d. 728H) said: “The most excellent day of the week is the day of Jumuah (Friday), by the agreement of the Scholars. And the most excellent day of the year is the day of an-Nahr. Some of them said that it is the day of Arafat. However, the first opinion is the correct one, since it is related in the Sunan collections that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “The most excellent days with Allah is the day of an-Nahr, then the day of al-Qarr (the day that the Muslims reside in Mina).” [(Saheeh) by Shaikh al-Albanee in Irwa al-Ghaleel (no: 2018). Related by Abu Dawood no: 1765].” [Majmoo al-Fatawa vol: 25, pp. 288]

The day of An-Nahr is also known as ‘Eid al-Adhaa’ meaning the festival of Sacrifice and it is one of the two festivals which Allah has granted to the Ummah of Prophet (sallahu alaihe wa-sallam). Anas (radhi allahu anhu) narrated, “Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) came to Medina and the people of Medina in the days of Jahiliyyah had two days of play and amusement. So, Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “I came to you and you had in Jahiliyyah, two days of play and amusement. Allah has replaced something better for you. The Day of an-Nahr and the day of al-Fitr.” [(Saheeh) by Haafidh Ibn Hajr in Buloogh al-Maraam. Related by Musnad Ahmad vol: 3, no: 103]

The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “The day of al-Fitr, and the day of an-Nahr, and the days of at-Tashreeq (the three days after an-Nahr) are our days of Eid (festivity); and they are days of eating and drinking.” [(Saheeh) by Shaikh al-Albanee in Saheeh al-Jamee (no: 8192). Related by Musnad Ahmad (no: 1945)]

Glorifying Allah with Takbeer: (Takbeer al-Muqayyid): From the day of Arafat until the Asr prayer of the 13th day of Dhul-Hijjah, one should make Takbeer after every obligatory Salaat. Ibn Abee Shaybah relates that Alee (radhi allahu anhu) used to make the Takbeer beginning after the Fajr prayer on the day of Arafat, until after the Asr prayer on the last day of at-Tashreeq.” [(Saheeh) by Shaikh al-Albanee in al-Irwa. Related by Ibn Abee Shaybah in al-Musannaf]

Shaikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (rahimahullah) said: “The most correct saying concerning the Takbeer - that which the majority of the Salaf (Pious Predecessors), and the Scholars from the Companions and Imams were upon - is to begin making the Takbeer from Fajr (dawn) on the day of Arafat up until the last day of at-Tashreeq (the thirteenth of Dhul-Hijjah), after every Prayer.” [Majmoo al-Fatawa (24/220)]

Imaam al-Khattaabee (rahimahullah) (d. 456H) said: “The wisdom behind saying the Takbeer in these days is that in the times of Jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic ignorance), they used to slaughter for their Taaghoots (false objects of worship). So the Takbeers were prescribed in order to indicate that the act of slaughtering is directed to Allah alone, and by mentioning only His Name.” [Fath al-Baree]

As regards to the actual wording of the Takbeers, then nothing authentic has been related from the Messenger of Allah. However, the following have been reported from the Sahabah:

1. Ibn Mas’ood (radiyallahu anhuma): “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil-Hamd.” [(Saheeh) Irwaa al-Ghaleel (650), Daraqutne, Ibn Shaibah] (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, There is none worthy of worship except Allah. Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest and to Allah belongs all praises)

2. Ibn Abbas (radiyallahu anhuma): “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil-Hamd; Allahu Akbar wa-ajal, Allahu akbaru ala mahadana.” [(saheeh) - Bayhaqee (3/315)] (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest and to Allah belongs all praises. Allah is the Greatest to that which He has guided us to)

3. Salman (radhi allahu anhu) : “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar kabeera.” [(saheeh) - Bayhaqee (3/316)] (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest)

“Increase in these days you Tahlil, Takbeer and Tamhid.” (Takbeer al-Mutlaq)

“…And mention the name of Allah on the appointed Days…” [Soorah al-Hajj (22): 28] This verse has been explained (by some) to mean the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. Scholars consider it desirable to increase Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) in these days, because the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is reported to have said: “There are no days that are greater to Allah or in which deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so increase your Tahlil, Takbeer and Tamhid during these days.” [Musnad Ahmad] Tahlil, Takbeer and Tamhid mean saying ‘La ilaha illa Allah’, ‘Allahu Akbar’ and ‘al-Hamdu lillah’, respectively.

Ishaaq narrates from the scholars of the Taabi’een that in these ten days they used to say: Allahu-Akbar, Allahu-Akbar; Laa-ilaaha-ill-Allah; waAllahu-Akbar, Allahu-Akbar; Wa-lillaahil-hamd.

It is a beloved act to raise the voice when saying the Takbeer in the markets, the houses, the streets, the masjids and other places, because of the saying of Allah Most High in Soorah al-Hajj verse 37: “…that you may magnify Allah for His Guidance to you…” Imaam Bukharee (rahimahullah) said in the book of al-Idayn in the chapter of the Virtue of good) deeds during the days of Tashreeq, Ibn Umar and Abu Hurayrah (radhi allahu anhuma) would go out in the marketplace during the ten days and say Takbeer, and the people would say Takbeer when they said Takbeer.” [Saheeh al-Bukharee]

The Sunnah is to say the Takbeer individually. The saying of Takbeer in congregation, i.e., everyone pronouncing the Takbeer with one voice, is not permissible since this has not been transmitted (to us) from the early generations of the Sahaabah and those who followed their ways. .This is applicable for all Dhikr and supplications, except if the person doesn’t know what to say. In that case he may repeat after someone else until he learns (the words to be said).

What You Can Do in these Blessed Days of Dhul-Hijjah?

The days of Dhul-Hijjah are the most blessed ones; therefore every Muslim should make much from this opportunity. Among the blessings of Allah is that He has given us many ways to perform good deeds and to worship Him, so that the Muslim may be constantly active and consistent in his worship of his Lord. Here are some out of many good deed, which you can perform in these days.Remember, deeds, which are less preferred are made superior and more beloved to Allah in these days, than the superior deeds performed at other times!! This is indicated in the Hadeeth where the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said regarding Jihad which is the most superior of all deeds to be less superior than the voluntary fast in these days, except that the Mujahid, “goes out risking himself and his wealth for the sake of Allah, and does not come back with anything.” [Saheeh al-Bukharee]

• Hajj and Umrah are the best deeds performed in Dhul-Hijjah.
   

  Fasting as many days as possible, especially the day of Arafat, which is a Sunnah. Fasting is one of the best of deeds. Allah chose fasting for Himself from all the good deeds, as is stated in the Hadeeth Qudsee: “All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except for fasting, which is for Me and I am the One Who will reward him for it.” [Saheeh al-Bukharee (1085)]
   

  Takbeer al-Muqayyid: The Takbeer, which is restricted to the time after the five obligatory Salaat. This begins from after Fajr prayer of the day of Arafat (for the non-pilgrims) until the Asr prayer of the last day of Tashreeq.
   

  Takbeer al-Mutlaq: The unrestricted Takbeer; ‘Allahu Akbar’, at all times of night and day until Eid al-Ahda.
   

  Perform plenty of Nafl (voluntary) prayers.
   

  Recite and Memorize the Qur’aan.
   

  Abstain from disobedience and sins, because disobedience is the cause of Allah’s Anger. The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: “Verily Allah has a sense of Ghayrah (honor, prestige and anger over it’s violation), and Allah’s sense of Ghayrah is provoked when a person does that which Allah has made prohibited.” [Saheeh Bukharee and Saheeh Muslim] Whereas, obedience and abstaining from all those things, which Allah has prohibited, is a form of worship and a means to achieve Allah’s Love.
   

  Hasten to make Sincere Tawbah (Repentance) to Allah because repentance means coming back to Allah. It is forgoing all those deed, which Allah dislikes in open and in secret, out of regret for what has passed, abandoning them immediately and being determined not to return to it again. When a Muslim combines repentance with good deeds during the most virtuous days, this is a sign of his success. Allah says: “But as for him who repented, believed and did righteous deeds, then he will be among those who are successful.” [Soorah al-Qasas (28): 67]

  Give Charity

  Attend Salaat al-Eid and the Khutbah.  

Slaughter Udhiyah (Sacrifice) on the day of Eid al-Adha is another good deed which brings the slave closer to his Lord.

There is much to be gained, so make the most of this these invaluable and irreplaceable days.

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat ALLAH Wabarakatu:  

So this ‘Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice’ doesn’t always have a good reputation. There are many negative sterotypes about them actually.  When I was still living in the states, not too long ago I would remember hearing random stories of men patrolling Makkah and Madinah hitting women with sticks if a strand of hair fell out of their hijabs, and men being beaten for hanging out in the streets during prayer time. In all honesty this is not what I’ve seen with them. Don’t get me wrong because I do not intend to praise them either, but to be fair I see them most active separating the men and women’s area outside Masjid an-Nabawi in the courtyard, right their with Red Crescent (like Red Cross-you’d think Saudi would be a little more original and call it Green Crescent or something! when someone ill is needed.  You can see them around Masjid Quba too.  I once was desperate for a plastic bag to put my shoes and the kids shoes in, I didn’t have the stroller with me and I left my canvas bag I usually use in the car.  So I saw one of them and asked, he emptied out his bag, which I didn’t even know he had one, and gave it to me. May Allah reward him because without it I was going to have to struggle bringing in 5 pairs of shoes with me into the Haram.  Not fun when kids keep dropping them, or Piety, my 2 year old decides that its time to put them on!  My point is that they aren’t all that intimidating, and assist the people alhamdulilah.

They are dressed in the traditional Saudi thobe with the red & white checkered head cover the men wear around here..can’t think of the name of them right now.  My husband works with one of them who is a secretary. So the “Muwatta” position is not always a full-time gig. These are men who claim at enjoining good and forbidding evil, but they are a different association than the police, some people may joke and call them the “religious police”. (out-loud mental note): I wonder if my brother is reading this right now, i’m winking if you are Which in a sense can somewhat be a good way to describe them.  They are desperately needed to get the brothers to stop smoking around the haram and surrounding mall-strips. That is just crazy that some people would come from the other end of Earth to land here and end up disrespecting the sanctity.  Alhamdulilah most are not like that.  

The Commission might tell a woman to get an abaya on if her style of hijab is drawing attention to her than not, you know..the tight clothes that reveals her shape in a attention getting way (that’s putting it politely!), I saw this happen. This young 20 something old sister was beautiful masha’Allah but not dressed for the occassion of being at the Prophet’s Mosque, subhan’Allah. No, Muwatta didn’t have a belt or stick to peg her with.  Another time I saw a man entering the female section of the courtyard where many women choose to pray for other reasons than going inside (wasn’t these days during Hajj season) and this poor man was, hmm…shall we say yanked out of there like a piece of gum off the bottom of the shoe. All I could do was think he must be pretty desperate looking for a daughter, a sister or wife.  So although in my limited experience I see they are doing a decent job, I can see how others might perceive them not as hospitable as you’d think they should be. 

Women from around the world often approach them with questions or even fatwa on this or that.  But not the women of Madinah…remember that extreme modesty factor thing.  So I assume men ask them questions too in regards to performing visitions to Rasullilah (as) at Rawdah or where they can fill their jugs with Zamzam.  Not in the men’s section, but I know my husband has asked a few questions and witness some brothers do so too.  They can be an excellent source of knowledge and information on many levels when coming here for Umrah, and now particulary for Hajj.. Read on below, another one from www.arabnews.com. Im glad they are using the international students, masha’Allah…but it would be great if they used some of the women from various hifz schools, or too to help out the sisters in their sections, particularly outdoor. 

May Allah purify our intentions and reward the hujaj with a Hajj Mabroor. Ameen.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Guidelines for Proper Conduct in Makkah and Madinah

by Syed B. Soharwardy

(Wednesday, December 28, 2005)

“It is important to remember that Islam is about the essence of the act, not simply the act alone.”

Introduction

Makkah and Madinah are two sanctuaries of Islam. These cities are the most holy cities for all Muslims. Unfortunately, due to ignorance or just plain carelessness, many Muslims visiting the sacred cities do not observe proper manners. Excellent manners are an essential part of the Islamic Faith. This etiquette is universal and must be exhibited by every Muslim everywhere at all times. However, in Makkah and Madinah they must be extra diligent in showing respect and dignity in their behaviour.

A great number of books and booklets exist, in nearly all languages of the world, about the rituals to be performed in Makkah and Madinah. Some of these books describe in detail the various tasks and activities of Hajj and Umrah. Many others outline countless Du’a (supplications) and Qur’anic verses suitable during Tawaf (circumambulation) of Ka’ba. People have spent a great deal of time and effort compiling du’as for each and every small act of worship. Du’as have been outlined for someone entering in Masjid-e-Haram or while performing Sa’ee (walk between Safa and Marwah hills). People have also written books on the rituals of Madinah outlining the number and manner of prayers to be conducted in Masjid Al Nabawi Sharif even telling which part of the mosque to pray in. Other books explain how to act upon entering in graveyard of Baqee’ and other places to visit while in Madinah. Even though such wealth of information exists about the rituals, sadly, very few books stress decorum while in the holy cities of Islam. In addition, pilgrim escorts and guide also focus primarily on rituals. Many media outlets such as television and radio programs provide information for pilgrims but again the focus is on the acts that must be performed and the readings to accompany them. Very little is said about the etiquette required in Makkah and Madinah. There is a great need for educating Muslims visiting Makkah and Medina to behave in a respectful manner. Furthermore, the unfortunate truth is that an overwhelming majority of Muslim countries are under developed. The literacy rate in most of the Muslim countries is very low. The civic propriety in poor Muslim countries is often non existent. Therefore, when pilgrims come to Makkah and Madinah, they bring with them the same unrefined manner of behaviour so common in such countries.

Regrettably, our pilgrims have missed the teachings of our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as well. The Prophet has said very clearly, “Cleanliness (hygiene) is half of all Faith” He has also said, “Cleanliness (hygiene) are a part of Faith”. In another place, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has said, “The best among you is the one who is best in manners”. For prayers to be accepted by Allah, it is Islam’s requirement that the body, the dress and the place must be clean (TAHARAH).

Similarly, good behaviour is an essential requirement if our prayers are to be accepted. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) forbade pushing or jumping over people in order to make room for another person to pray. He also forbade praying in pathways or walkways in order to avoid inconvenience for people.

To be well behaved is a key requirement of the Islamic Faith. This condition must be met for the prayers to be accepted by Allah. As narrated by Abu Shuraih (May Allah be pleased with him), The Prophet (Peace be upon him) said, “By Allah, he does not believe! By Allah, he does not believe! By Allah, he does not believe!” It was said, “Who is that, O Allah’s Apostle?” He said, “That person whose neighbour does not feel safe from his evil.” (Bukhari, Volume 8, Book 73, Number 4). This Hadith clearly describes the civic responsibility of a believer. In the holy cities of Makkah or Madinah we have temporary neighbours and these temporary neighbours have greater rights on us (the pilgrims) than do our regular neighbours at home. In short, in the true values of Islam, treating people with respect is a prerequisite to Allah’s acceptance of our good deeds. However, many Muslims ignore this critical aspect of the religion.

Good Intentions but Bad Behaviour

If a Haji (pilgrim) believes that kissing Hajr-e-Aswad (or the black stone mounted on one of the corners of Ka’ba) will bring him/her the blessings of Allah but s/he does not care how much pain and inconvenience they cause to other people in order to get to the Hajr-e-Aswad on a crowded day, then this person must reconsider seriously. What use does Allah have for his good deeds if his creation is harmed unnecessarily by his seemingly “good” actions? Instead of receiving blessings from Allah for his/her deed, there may only be the displeasure and wrath of Allah waiting for those who misbehave in the most holy places on Earth.

Similarly, in Madinah many people seek to pray in Riyadh-ul-Jannah (an area between the grave and the pulpit of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and they push and jump over the other people in order to make room for themselves. Some people wish to remain in this area for as long as they can thinking that the longer they sit, the greater the reward. These pilgrims selfishly forget that other pilgrims too have the desire to spend a few minutes in this special place. Such behaviour may not bring blessings but anger of Allah for not observing the honours of Masjid Al Nabawi Al Sharif and not being courteous to fellow Muslim brothers and sisters.

It is heartbreaking for me to call your attention to a very disrespectful act of Muslims when in the mosque of our beloved Prophet. Many ill-mannered people talk very loudly in front of the Muwajeh Sharif (the grave of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)) This a severe violation of the standards of honour set out for being in the presence of the Holy Prophet. The etiquette (ADAAB) regarding Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that Qur’an has prescribed for Muslims must be fully observed by Muslims when they are in Masjid Al Nabawi Sharif. Muslims of today seem to regard Makkah and Madinah as casual tourist places OR their focus is to complete certain tasks and rituals as quickly as possible to achieve the most reward in the shortest period of time.

Virtues of Makkah Al Mukarramah

Do we really know what Makkah and Madinah are? I believe that most visiting Muslims do not even begin to understand the superior sacredness of Makkah and Madinah. Makkah is that city about which almighty Allah says;

• “Verily, the first House (of worship) appointed for mankind was that at Bakkah (former name of Makkah), full of blessing, and a guidance for al-Alameen (the mankind and Jinns). In it are manifest signs (for example), the Maqaam (place) of Ibraheem (Abraham); whosoever enters it, he attains security.” (Surah al-Imran (3): 96-97)

Allah swears by the city of Makkah and provides us with the reason thereof; this is the city where the blessed Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to walk. The feet of His beloved Muhammad (peace be upon him) have touched the land of this city.

• “I swear by this City of Makkah. And thou art a freeman of this City”(Surah Balad (90):1-2)
• “By the Fig And the Olive. And by the Mount of Sinai. And by this city (Makkah) of security “ (Surah Teen (95): 1-3)

Following are some of the important virtues of Makkah

• Al-Masjid al-Haraam was the first house of worship ordained for mankind on Earth. Allah has placed several blessings in it, for e.g. the Salaat in al-Masjid al-Haraam has multiplied rewards when compared to the Salaat performed elsewhere. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “One Salaat in my Masjid is better than 10,000 Salaat anywhere else except in al-Masjid al-Haraam.” [Saheeh al-Bukharee and Saheeh Muslim]
• “One Salaat in al-Masjid al-Haraam is better than 100 Salaat in my Masjid.” [Musnad Ahmad]
• Zam-Zam is the name of the famous well inside al-Masjid al-Haraam. This well sprung up when Prophet Ishmael (Isma’eel) (peace be upon him) as an infant struck the earth with his heels struggling in thirst. His mother Hazrat Hajrah (Hager) looked for water, but could not find any. She climbed to the top of Mount Safa and prayed to Allah for help, and then she climbed Mount Marwa and did the same. Allah responded to her supplication and sent Jibreel (peace be upon him) to dig out the well of Zam-Zam. It is Allah’s special blessing and miracle that the well of Zam-Zam gushes fresh and strong in a desert land like Makkah; a place where even today’s advanced scientific technologies can create no wells.
• Another Blessing of Masjid al-Haraam is the al-Hajar al-Aswad (the Black Stone), from where the Tawaaf (circumambulation) initiates and ends. Hajar al-Aswad is a stone of Paradise and it was as the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: “The black stone descended from Paradise whiter than milk, but the sins of the descendants of Adam made it black.” (Musnad Ahmad and at-Tirmidhee no: 2577).
• The virtues of al-Hajar al-Aswad is that touching it causes the (minor) sins to be forgiven, Ibn Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) said: “I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) say: “Touching them both [the Black Stone and al-Rukn al-Yamani] is an expiation for sins.” [(Hasan) by at-Tirmidhee, no: 959 and (Saheeh) by al-Haakim, vol: 1, no: 664]

In summary;

• Makkah is the city where the first house of worship for Allah was built.
• Makkah is the city where the most sacred mosque is located. Prayers in Masjid Ala Haram are rewarded 100,000 times more than the prayers in other mosques.
• The city of Makkah was declared a sanctuary by Allah.
• Most of the Messengers and Prophets of Allah visited this city including Prophet Abraham (Ibraheem) and Prophet Ishmael (Ismaeel).
• This is the city where Hazrat Hajrah (Hager) lived and raised her son Prophet Ishmael (Ismaeel). Prophet Ismaeel spent most of his life in Makkah.
• When Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was migrating from Makkah and going to Madinah, he turned his face towards Makkah and said, “ Makkah I love you and I know you love me but your people have forced me to leave you”.
• This is the city for which Prophet Ibrahim and Ismaeel made du’a to Allah.
• In this city Allah ordered Prophets Abraham and Ishmael to build the Ka’ba, the house of Allah, and invite the entire mankind to come for Hajj of Bait Al Ateeq. Since then countless humans have visited this blessed city and performed their pilgrimage.
• This is the city where our Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was born and raised. This is the city where he first declared that Allah has made him the last messenger and prophet for entire mankind.
• Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) spent most of his life in Makkah.
• This city is truly cradle of Islam.
• This is the city where Zam Zam flows and provides nourishment to those who drink it.
• The miraculous journey of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) towards the Heavens, Al Asra wal Me’raj, started and ended in this city.
• Within the sanctuary of Makkah, there are so many signs of Allah (Sha’a-ir-Allah) and the historical sites such as the fields of Mina, Muzdhalifah, Arafat, the cave of Thore, the graveyard of Jannatul Mu’alla, the hills of Safa and Marwah, the house where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was born, etc.
• This is the city where millions of Muslims yearn to go and millions more visit each year.

Virtues of Madinah Al Munawwarah

• Narrated by Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) : The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Medina is a sanctuary from that place to that. Its trees should not be cut and no heresy should be innovated nor any sin should be committed in it, and whoever innovates in it a heresy or commits sins (bad deeds), then he will incur the curse of Allah, the angels, and all the people.” (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 91)
• Narrated Abu Huraira (May Allah be pleased with him): Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him) said, “I was ordered to migrate to a town which will swallow (conquer) other towns and is called Yathrib and that is Medina, and it turns out (bad) persons as a furnace removes the impurities of iron. (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 95)
• Narrated Abu Huraira (May Allah be pleased with him): If I saw deer grazing in Medina, I would not chase them, for Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him) said, “(Medina) is a sanctuary between its two mountains.” (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 97)
• Narrated Abu Huraira (May Allah be pleased with him): Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him) said, “Verily, Faith returns and goes back to Medina as a snake returns and goes back to its hole (when in danger).” (Bukhari Volume 3, Book 30, Number 100)
• Narrated Sa’d (May Allah be pleased with him): I heard the Prophet (peace be upon him) saying, “None plots against the people of Medina but that he will be dissolved (destroyed) like the salt is dissolved in water.” (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 101)
• Narrated Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “There will be no town which Ad-Dajjal will not enter except Makkah and Medina, and there will be no entrance (road) (of both Makkah and Medina) but the angels will be standing in rows guarding it against him, and then Medina will shake with its inhabitants thrice (i.e. three earth-quakes will take place) and Allah will expel all the non-believers and the hypocrites from it.” (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 105)
• Narrated Anas (May Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “O Allah! Bestow on Medina twice the blessings You bestowed on Makkah.” (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 109)
• Narrated Anas (May Allah be pleased with him), Whenever the Prophet (Peace be upon him) returned from a journey and observed the walls of Medina, he would make his Mount go fast, and if he was on an animal (i.e. a horse), he would make it gallop because of his love for Medina. (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 110)
• Narrated Abu Huraira (May Allah be pleased with him)) the Prophet (Peace be upon him) said, “There is a garden from the gardens of Paradise between my house and my pulpit, and my pulpit is on my Lake Fount (Al-Kauthar).” (Bukhari Volume 3, Book 30, Number 112)
• Narrated Zaid bin Aslam from his father (May Allah be pleased with them), Umar (May Allah be pleased with him) said, O Allah! Grant me martyrdom in Your cause, and let my death be in the city of Your Apostle (peace be upon him).” (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 30, Number 114)

Don’ts of Makkah and Madinah

As pilgrims are now aware of these important honours and virtues of Makkah and Madinah; they must now be extra careful in the City of Makkah and Madinah particularly in the vicinity of Masjid Al Haram and Masjid Al Nabawi Sharif. If they do not take care in these sacred places, then they risk loosing the benefit of their good deeds and prospect the reward from Allah. The following principles of honourable behaviour should be followed by every Muslim at all times when in Makkah or Madinah.

Spitting:

Pilgrims should not spit on the streets and pathways of Makkah and Madinah. If anyone needs to spit, they should spit in sinks or garbage containers (available everywhere). If they are unable to find a washroom or a garbage container, then they must keep tissue papers in their pockets and use them and later dispose of them in the garbage containers. Spitting on the streets of Makkah and Madinah is clearly a disrespectful act and insulting for the holy cities. Allah may destroy all the good deeds that the pilgrim has done, if the pilgrim spits on the streets of Makkah and Madinah knowingly that it is disrespectful and unhygienic and may spread diseases.

Cleaning up and disposing garbage:

Some pilgrims after eating or drinking leave bottles, boxes, containers and plastic bags behind in the places where they ate their meals. They do not dispose off their garbage properly. This makes the street and the roads of Makkah and Madinah dirty. It creates environmental pollution in holy cities. It creates hazards for pedestrians and for vehicles. It causes inconvenience to the other pilgrims. Therefore, anyone who does not properly dispose off garbage in Makkah and Madinah will be subjected to the wrath of Allah for insulting and disrespecting Makkah and Madinah.

Prophet Muhammad Peace be upon him) said, “Cleanliness is half of Faith”. When someone destroys the cleanliness of the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah then this person may be loosing more than half of his / her faith.

Kissing the Hajre-Aswad:

Kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad is a very desirable and honourable action. However, pushing, bullying, fighting and quarrelling with people in order to jump the line represent the worst actions a pilgrim can do in the Masjid Al Haram. Sometimes people in AHRAAM fight with other pilgrims, which destroys the spirit of their Umrah OR Hajj. In the state of AHRAAM, fighting, quarrelling, pushing, bullying, hurting people, yelling and screaming is HARAM (forbidden). How do people figure that their Umrah or Hajj will provide them with any benefit when they fight and use vulgar language while in the state of AHRAAM? In fact, this person is simply increases his stock of sins by fighting and yelling in the state of AHRAAM.

It is important to remember that Islam is about the essence of the act, not simply the act alone. One does not have to physically touch the stone in order to gain its benefits. Therefore, if a person is unable to reach the Hajr-e-Aswad due to the large crowds, then this person can symbolically kiss the Hajr-e-Aswad from a distance and his kiss will still be as good as someone really kisses the Haj-e-Aswad. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself did this symbolic kiss many times. He wanted other people to get the chance. Why do pilgrims not look to the Holy Prophet’s (peace be upon him) example? Remember, in Islam the reward of all actions is based upon the intention, not on the actual action. But when you know that you may cause unintentional harm to someone then stay away from that action. Allah will reward you, Insha-Allah, for being careful and being considerate of others.

A person who causes harm to himself or other pilgrims while trying to kiss Hajr-e-Aswad will gain no benefits from his/her kiss. Instead, the person will be committing a sin in Masjid Al Haram - the worst thing a pilgrim could do.

Similarly, standing in HATEEM OR near MULTAZAM is good but it must not be sought at the cost of causing harm or inconvenience to others. There is no reward from Allah for those who push and shove and make room for themselves at these honoured places. They are utterly selfish. People often excuse these actions saying they did not have the intention to harm or cause inconvenience for others but surely they must understand that their actions do cause harm and inconvenience for others. Therefore, they need to recognize that their apparent good deed may put them in trouble with Allah because of their intentional carelessness in recognizing the harm they cause to others.

Allah has ordered to pray at Maqam-e-Ibraheem, however, now the entire Masjid Al Haram is considered Maqam-e-Ibraheem. Therefore, if someone still insists on praying at the actual Maqam-e-Ibrahim and ignore the difficulty this causes for the pilgrims who trying to make Tawaf will gain no benefit from his / her prayer at Maqam-e-Ibrahim. Do these pilgrims truly hope for reward from Allah when they insist on creating a hazard for other pilgrims? Allah likes a prayer conducted with concentration and in a relaxed manner. A pilgrim praying anywhere else in Masjid al-Haram is more likely to perform such a prayer compared to a pilgrim who rushes his / her prayer and cannot concentrate because he is praying where people are making Tawaf.

Sa’ee in Safa and Marwa:

Most of the pilgrims prefer to make Sa’ee on the ground level which overcrowds the area. Now Safa and Marwa hills have three floors. The reward for doing Sa’ee on any of the three floors is the same. Therefore, if the ground level gets crowded, pilgrims should go on to the above floors. Let us assume that someone started Sa’ee on the ground level and he / she completed two or three rounds of Safa and Marwa. As the more and more people join and the person realizes that it is getting very crowded on the ground level then this person should move to the upper level for Sa’ee and complete the remaining rounds on the upper levels. (There are stairs and escalators on the Marwa side for upper levels)

Raml during Tawaf:

During the first three rounds of Ka’ba Muslim men perform what is known as RAML. Raml is to walk at a slightly increased pace with your chest “puffed up” as if you are flexing your chest muscles. Although, Raml is not a requirement but pilgrims follow it as a Sunnah of the Holy Prophet. However, some pilgrims misunderstand the idea of Raml and they start running and pushing people. This hurts women, children and the elderly. In the largest routine gathering of humans with limited space, it is inappropriate to run or walk fast during Tawaf. Raml does not mean that pilgrims have to run or push people. Raml means that the men should broaden their chests in order to express that they are healthy and strong. Therefore, those who try to run or push people during Tawaf, may be the recipients of Allah’s wrath. Sometimes people come in groups and they create a type of fort around themselves by holding hands or cloths causing great inconvenience to other individuals. This is completely inappropriate and should not be done in Masjid Al Haram..

Elderly:

One has to be very careful with the elderly people. The elderly people must be protected by others. The elderly walk slowly and must not be pushed. If by mistake someone causes any inconvenience to anyone then that person should seek immediate forgiveness of that person. Many people do not care when they have elbowed someone and just continue on, which is against Islamic teachings and moral values. We must be extra courteous and kind to one another especially in the House of Allah; the merciful and the most kind.

Non Mahram:

Although, it is logistically impossible to keep a reasonable distance among individuals but each individual, man or woman, must try his/her best to keep a reasonable distance between themselves and other non-Mahram people. The key is show Allah a reasonable effort to avoid contact with non Mahram individuals if one is to safeguard their Hajj or Umrah.

Sleeping and resting in Masjid Al Haram and Masjid Al Nabawi:

First of all people should not be sleeping in Masjid Al Haram and Masjid Al Nabawi except during the period of I’tikaf. They should have arrangements for their stay such as hotels, etc. However, people do get tired after Tawaf and Sa’ee and they want to sit and rest for few minutes. Many pilgrims treat Masjid Al Haram and Masjid Al Nabawi as casual places when they take their rest. Some men and even women lay down in any position they like and show no HAYA (modesty). This is certainly a greatly negligent act of the pilgrims in the holy mosques. Masjid Al Haram and Masjid Al Nabawi and their surroundings are always filled with millions of people. While people sleep among these great number of people walking around them at all times, they sometimes, accidentally and of course, unknowingly, have their AOWRAH (parts of body that must be covered in public) exposed to other people, especially for men in AHRAAM (its only two sheets). Therefore, it’s not a good idea to sleep in Masjid Al Haram or outside Masjid Al Haram on a side walk or pathways OR in Masjid Al Nabawi. If someone is in need of rest for a few minutes, then they must ensure that they are properly covered at all times.

Quarrelling, using inappropriate language in Makkah:

Many pilgrims quarrel and use very inappropriate language with other Muslims. Sometimes they are in AHRAMM and they still fight with others OR use inappropriate language (vulgarity and vanity) when they speak. If a pilgrim quarrels or uses inappropriate language in AHRAAM, he/she must pay a penalty (KAFFARAH) by sacrificing an animal. Their Umrah or Hajj will not be accepted unless they offer the KAFFAARAH (penalty). If someone is not in the state of Ahraam but is still present in the city of Makkah, this person must still not fight or use inappropriate language with anyone. It is a sin against his soul and destroys his good deed.

Anger:

No doubt, pilgrims are under enormous stress and greatly fatigued because performing Hajj or Umrah is not easy for everyone. Umrah and Hajj require physical work to a considerable extent. Hajj requires far more physical movements than Umrah. Therefore, people get tired and cranky and loose patience. In case of a dispute or disagreement, some pilgrims become very angry. This is what exactly Shaitan (Satan) looks for. Pilgrims go to Makkah to please Allah, which makes Shaitan unhappy. However, when a pilgrim gives himself up to anger and quarrels with another pilgrim, Shaitan is certainly pleased while Allah is surely displeased with this pilgrim’s act.

Parents and Children:

Some parents when they get angry at their children they curse at them (BADDU’A). They forget that they are in Makkah where supplications and Du’a are accepted very fast. Therefore, parents should control themselves and never curse at their children in the city of Makkah and Madinah. They should be making du’a for their children. Similarly, children must obey their parents and serve them to their best, which will be rewarded by Allah.

Speaking Loud and listening or participating in useless talks:

Some pilgrims talk very loudly inside Masjid Al Nabawi sharif. This destroys all good deeds of a person. Some pilgrims laugh, make jokes and tell stories in Masjid Al Haram / Masjid Al Nabawi. I have seen so called scholars and those who claim that they love Allah and His Prophet (peace be upon him) more involved in jokes and worldly discussions in side both mosques than ordinary Muslims. This must be avoided inside both the Holy Mosques. Allah says in the Holy Qur’an;
“O ye who believe! Raise not your voices above the voice of the Prophet, nor speak loud to him in talk, as ye may speak aloud to one another, Lest your deeds become vain and ye perceive not.” (Surah Al Hujurat (49): 2)

The respect and honour of Masjid Al Nabawi remains the same as exemplified by the companions’ behaviour in the presence of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Professional Beggars:

For the past few years many professional beggars have started coming to Makkah and Madinah. They come to Makkah / Madinah in order to make money through begging. Some of them lie and fabricate stories. These liars and thieves lie and steal in the house of Allah and the city of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). They are subject to the severest punishment from Allah. There are individuals and companies in a few Muslim countries, who export beggars to Makkah and Madinah during Hajj and Umrah season and make tons of illegitimate money. These people are brought into Saudi Arabia on Umrah OR Hajj visa. Saudi government cannot do much. It is the duty of each pilgrim to identify such culprits. However, we must be careful because there are genuine, needy people who deserve our charity and help. But we must be vigilant about the professional beggars. There are also people who pick pockets and steal people’s wallets in and around Masjid Al Haram and Masjid Al Nabawi. These people will get the most severe punishment from Allah.

Politicians and Government Officials:

Many politicians perform Umrah and Hajj for public relations. When these government officials (presidents, prime ministers, etc..) arrive inside the HARAM, many pilgrims loose their concentration and start paying attention to these leaders. In both the Holy Mosques, Allah and His Prophet (peace be upon him) deserve our attention, not political leaders. For the past five years, during Ramadan, a Pakistani politician visits Masjid Al Nabawi sharif and as soon as he arrives with his servants and body guards several Pakistanis stop their rituals and start looking at him and talking about him. This politician also chooses a place in Masjid Al Nabawi where he likely to receive maximum exposure. Pilgrims must try to avoid such worldly matters with strong resolve and develop their soul’s spirituality while in such sacred places.

If the reward for doing good deeds in Masjid Al Haraam and Masjid Al Nabawi is the highest and the second highest compared to other places in the world then the punishment for doing bad deeds in Masjid Al Haraam and Masjid Al Nabawi will be the worst as well.

Let us learn the best manners and behaviour to conduct ourselves with great dignity in Makkah and Madinah. We must look to the Holy Prophet for true guidance, outling excellent etiquette for Allah’s and the Prophet’s own city. In addition, we must try to bring these refined manners back home with us. We should reflect in our lives how the visit to the Makkah and Madinah has changed us. We should become the model citizens of our communities.

May Allah accept our Hajj and Umrah and visit to Madinah Al Munawwarah. Ameen

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Author’s Request & Acknowledgement:

If you like this article, please translate it into your language and distribute it to pilgrims who may be going for Hajj. Thank you very much. I am very thankful to Nadia Ahmed for proof reading this article. May Allah reward her with the best of both worlds. Ameen

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taken from: http://usa.mediamonitors.net/content/view/full/24506 , may Allah also reward the author of this, haven’t read a better article on the importance of ettiquette in these most sacred spots. please be sure to circulate this to those going for Umrah and/or Hajj…jazakAllah kheir.