(in the Prescribed Ritual Devotions)

Salah, the five prescribed daily ritual devotions, is the second pillar of Islam. The Messenger Muhammad described it as the main and most important matter of Islam. There are different types of Salah, prescribed ritual devotions, some of which are obligatory, while others are recommended or specific to certain events or circumstances. Salah consists of actions such as standing, bowing and kneeling. It also consists of supplications, verbal devotions glorifying God and the recitation of Quranic passages.

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The lived example and model of the life of the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ, known as the Sunnah, is the second source of knowledge in Islam after the Quran. It compliments and explains the Quran, and gives practical examples explaining the Quranic commandments in context. This is why God sent messengers throughout history before His revelation of scripture. God says, “God revealed to you the Book and wisdom.” [4:113] Wisdom here refers to the example of the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ, the Sunnah.

When God commands us to offer daily ritual devotions or perform the pilgrimage to Mecca in the Quran, it is the lived example and model of the life of the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ that shows us exactly how. The lived example and model of the life of the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ teaches us how to offer the ritual devotions, what to say, how many units to offer, the prescribed timings, and the conditions that need to be met beforehand such as ritual washing. The lived example and model of the life of the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ explains how to perform the rites of the pilgrimage, where to go and when; what to do there and how.

The authority of the lived example and model of the life of the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ stems from the many commands throughout the Quran in which God instructs us to follow His Messenger Muhammad ﷺ. Here are some of the fifty references in the Quran related to this subject: God says, “He who obeys the Messenger has obeyed God; but those who turn away – We have not sent you over them as a guardian.” [4:80] God  commands us to obey the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ and warns us against disobeying him, “O you who have believed, obey God and obey the Messenger and do not invalidate your deeds.” [47:33]

Accepting the Messenger Muhammad’s ﷺ commands, teachings and rulings is an integral part of faith. In fact, the very testimony of faith that brings one to Islam includes the declaration that one would believe in what Muhammad ﷺ brought, obey his instructions, refrain from his prohibitions, and only worship God in compliance with his example. His words and teachings are sanctioned by God and thus must be obeyed as if God Himself commanded them. God says, “By your Lord, they will not truly believe until they make you, (O Muhammad), judge over their disputes, after which they should not find within themselves any discomfort from what you have judged, rather they should submit to it in full willing submission.” [4:65]

Without the lived example and model of the life of the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ, we wouldn’t be able to understand the Quran correctly. This would lead to each person misunderstanding the Quran according to their ideas and desires. which would lead to much confusion and would result in a way different from Islam as intended by God. The Messenger Muhammad ﷺ explained and demonstrated how to understand the Quran and live by it. This is why, when his wife Aeysha was asked to describe his character, she replied that it was the Quran, meaning he embodied its teachings.

The lived example and model of the life of the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ is divinely inspired. God says, “He, i.e. Muhammad, does not speak of his own desire, it is nothing less than a revelation sent to him.” [53:3-4] This means that everything he says in terms of God’s way is mandated by God and has the authority of having come from God. This is why his disciples memorized details of his example and narrated it to others. In properly following the Sunnah, we can understand the Quran and practice Islam the way God wants. May Allah enable us to do so.

Note:

ﷺ – This symbol is a prayer that is written using Arabic calligraphy. It is said/written whenever the Messenger Muhammad ﷺ  is mentioned, as per the command in the Quran 33:56. It means “May Allah honor, bless, and protect him.”

In the depths of faith, a whisper flows,

A phrase profound, where true surrender grows,

La Hawla wa la Quwata illa Billah, we say,

In every breath, in every prayer, it stays.

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God gave His Messenger Solomon a number of unique miracles. Due to his high level of wisdom, he was highly aware of the power of God. He recognized that God was responsible for any condition he found himself in, whether easy or difficult, and he praised God for it. He said, “All praise and thanks is due to God [27:15]. God says that Solomon asked for a kingdom unique to him, and God answered his prayer. “He turned to Us and prayed: ‘Lord forgive me! Grant me such power as no one after me will have. You are the Most Generous Provider.’” [38:35] Read More

In chapter 27 of the Quran, God tells us that on one occasion, Solomon was taking roll call of his army and noticed that a hoopoe bird was absent, “Solomon inspected the birds and said, ‘Why do I not see the hoopoe? Is he absent?” [27:20] When the bird returned, it informed Solomon that its delay was due to it having come across a kingdom ruled by a rich and powerful queen that worshipped the sun instead of God. “I found a woman ruling over the people, who has been given a share of everything- she has a magnificent throne – [but] I found that she and her people worshipped the sun instead of God. Satan has made their deeds seem alluring to them, and diverted them from the right path, they are astray.” [27:23-24] Read More

The Quran, as the divine word of God, deserves utmost respect and reverence. Whether you can read Arabic at present or not, here are some essential etiquettes when engaging with the Quran in written form. The Quran in written form is called a ‘MusHaf.’ As you progress through the faith, God willing,  there may come a time when you can read the Quran in its Arabic written form from a ‘MusHaf.’ Until that time, you should read a translation in your language. You may also find translations that have the Arabic text along with the translation. All the rulings that apply to the Arabic written text of the Quran may not apply to the translations or the copies that have both the Arabic and the translations. We will note below those that are specific to the Arabic Quran in its written form, ‘MusHaf.’ Read More

Ramadan is a month of worship in many different forms. For many of us, Islam is a virtual experience due to a variety of reasons. However, it does not need to be this way for everyone. For those of us who have access to a Muslim community, one major aspect of Ramadan is the social aspects it encourages. We see this in different ways: Read More

Understanding Fasting Times in Islam: Clearing Misconceptions

As a new Muslim, understanding the correct timing of fasting is essential. Unfortunately there are some misconceptions due to false media coverage and lack of correct knowledge of Islamic practices. Let’s delve into the details to ensure clarity and adherence to this fundamental practice.

The Start of Fasting

• Fajr (Dawn): The beginning time for the Fajr ritual devotion (Salah) is the start of the time for fasting. Fasting begins at Fajr, which is dawn time, at the break of dawn. It’s the moment when the first light appears on the horizon, signaling the start of a new day. At this point, Muslims must stop eating, drinking, and engaging in intimate sexual activity.

●     Sunrise vs. Fajr

• Misconception: Some people confuse the start of fasting with sunrise. However, they are distinct moments over an hour apart.
• Clarification: Fasting begins at Fajr, not sunrise. Fajr occurs before the sun rises, during the twilight phase. Fajr time window ends with sunrise.
• Pre-Dawn Meal (Suhur): It’s recommended to have Suhur (the pre-dawn meal) in the last half-hour before Fajr. This should sustain you throughout the day.

3. The End of Fasting

• Maghrib (Sunset): Fasting concludes at Maghrib, precisely after the sun sets. This is also the starting time for the Maghrib ritual devotion (Salah). As soon as the sun sets you can eat and drink to complete the fast for the day.

Conclusion

Understanding the correct timing for fasting is essential for practicing this pillar of Islam. Remember to set your intention, start the fast before Fajr time, and complete your fast promptly at Maghrib. May your fasting be accepted, blessed and spiritually enriching!

As a new Muslim, embarking on your spiritual journey can be both exciting and challenging. The last 10 nights of Ramadan hold immense significance, and understanding their importance can deepen your connection with Allah. Let’s explore how perseverance and gratitude can help you during this period.

1. The Significance of the Last 10 Nights

The last 10 nights of Ramadan are a time of heightened spirituality and divine blessings. Among these nights lies the Night of Special Status, which is a night that is better and higher in rank than 1,000 months. (Quran 97:3). Imagine the magnitude of blessings and forgiveness available during this time!

2. Perseverance: A Steadfast Journey

What Is It?

Perseverance (Sabr in Arabic) is not merely enduring difficulties; it’s about maintaining steadfastness and trust in Allah even when faced with challenges. For New Muslims, this resilience is essential as you navigate the intricacies of Islamic practices which may at times seem daunting.

How Can New Muslims Practice Perseverance?

• Learn Gradually: Don’t overwhelm yourself. Take small steps in learning the basics of prayer, fasting, and other acts of worship. Seek guidance from well- grounded, knowledgeable individuals and reliable resources familiar with your situation.
• Embrace Imperfection: Understand that perfection isn’t the goal. Allah appreciates sincere efforts. If you stumble during prayer or forget something, know that Allah knows your genuine intention.
• Seek Support: NMA is here to support you in this journey. Reach out to us if you need help
• Build your perseverance: Use the last 10 nights of Ramadan to build up your resilience. Seeking the Night of Special Status in these last 10 nights requires a lot of dedication. If possible, set aside time each night to spend in devotional acts. Try to put in as much time as you can without exhausting yourself.
• Scale up: You could start with a lesser amount of time in the first of the 10 nights and gradually keep increasing. Perseverance will play an important role in this gradual building up of your capacity.

3. Gratitude: A Heartfelt Expression

What Is Gratitude?

Gratitude (Shukr in Arabic) is acknowledging Allah’s blessings and expressing heartfelt thanks. It’s recognizing that every breath, every moment, is a gift from Him.

How Can New Muslims Practice Gratitude?

• Start with Basics: Use these 10 nights to thank Allah for all the good things you have in life – food, shelter, and health. Thank Him for bringing you to Islam, allowing you to reach this Ramadan, and enabling you to worship Him in it.
• Reflect on Blessings: Each night, take a moment to ponder the blessings you’ve received since embracing Islam. Your faith, supportive people online or offline, and your newfound purpose in life are all gifts.
• Thank Allah for achievements: Gratitude softens the heart and strengthens faith. These last 10 nights are a good time to thank Allah for all that you have achieved in life, whether it’s on the work front, personal life, or even the worship that you have been able to do this Ramadan.

Conclusion

Dear new Muslim, embrace perseverance/resilience, and gratitude. Allah knows your struggles, and He appreciates your sincere efforts. The last 10 nights are a golden opportunity to draw closer to Him. May your journey be filled with blessings, understanding, and love.

Remember: You are not alone. Allah is with you every step of the way.

The Quran contains guidance for humankind. It covers everything that people need to find true happiness and success in this life and the next. A major part of that is the social teachings of the Quran. The foremost duty of people is to know the One True God properly and to worship Him alone according to His terms and conditions. A part of that is obedience to God and living in a way pleasing to Him. A major part of pleasing God is our social interactions. The Messenger Muhammad said that the best of people are those most beneficial to others. Read More