Spiga

Imam Hussain(a.s):"Verily people are the slaves of the world & their religion is superficial, only on their tongues.They are attentive to it as long as their material benifits are provided,but when they are tested ,the number of true devotees dwindles" Ref Bihar-Ul-Anwar .

What is Eid?


What is Eid?

Eid ul Fitr and Eid ul Azha prayers are obligatory during the time of Imam (A.S.), and it is necessary to offer them in congregation. However during the present times when the Holy Imam is in Occultation, these prayers are Mustahab, and may be offered individually as well as in congregation. The time for Eid prayers is from sunrise till Zuhr. just to convey all readers , the importance of Eid ul fitr ,I would like to start this topic with a sermon of Imam Ali bin Abi Talib (as) delivered on the day of Eid al-Fitr, in which

he said:

"O people! Verily this day of yours is the day when the righteous are awarded and the wretched are losers. It is a day which is similar to the one on which you shall be standing (before your Lord). Therefore, when you come out of your homes to go to places of your prayer, remind yourselves about the day when you (your souls) shall come out of your bodies to go to your Lord. When you stand on places of your prayer, remind yourselves of your standing in presence of your Lord (on the day of Judgement). And when you return to your homes (after prayer), remind yourselves about your returning to your homes in Paradise.(Nahjul-Balaghah)

That is why It is recommended that Eid prayers be performed in the open fields, to walk barefooted to attend Eid prayers and to perform Sajdah on earth and to do Ghusl before namaz, and to place a white turban on one's head.

The Holy Qur'an says:Whoever has done an atom 's weight of good, will see it and whoever has done an atom's weight of evil, will also see it. (Surah az-Zilzal, 99:7,8)

Maula ali (a.s) also said in the same sermon of nahjul Balagha: O Servants of Allah! Verily the minimum reward for those men and women who fasted (during Ramadhan), is an Angel, who calls out to them on the last day of the month of Ramadhan (saying): O SERVANTS OF ALLAH! REJOICE THE GLAD TIDING THAT ALL YOUR PREVIOUS SINS HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN.

Salat al Eid
It is Mustahab that one should have a breakfast after sunrise, pay Zakatul Fitr and then offer Eid prayers. It is Mustahab to walk barefooted to attend Eid prayers, with all the dignity, and to do Ghusl before namaz, and to place a white turban on one's head.

It is also Mustahab that in Eid prayers Sajdah be performed on earth, and hands be raised while saying takbirs and if you are offering salat individually recites prayers loudly. And if you are Riciting Namaz e Eid with Jamat then the follower should recite everything in the Eid prayers, except Surah al-Hamd and the other Surah.

1) Eid prayers has two Rak'ats.

2) In the first Rak'at, a person should recite Surah al Hamd and a Surah

3) and then they say five takbirs, and after every takbir he should recite qunut.

4) After the fifth qunut, he should say another takbir and then perform Ruku and two Sajdah.

5) He should then stand up and recite Surah al Hamd and a Surah like first Rakat.

6) say four takbirs in the second Rak'at, and recite qunut after everyone of these takbirs.

7) Thereafter, he should say the fifth takbir and then perform Ruku and two Sajdah.

8) After the second Sajdah he should recite tashahhud, and then complete the prayers with Salam.

----------------

No particular Surah has been specified for Eid prayers But, it is better that after reciting Surah al Hamd in the first Rak'at, Surah Wash Shams be recited and in the second Rak'at Surah al Ghashiya

Any recital or Dua will suffice in qunut of the Eid Prayers. However, it is better that the following Dua is recited: Allahumma ahlal kibriya'i wal 'azamah, wa ahlal judi wal jaburat, wa ahlal 'afwi war rahmah, wa ahlat taqwa wal maghfirah. As aluka bihaqqi hazal yawmil lazi ja'altahu lil muslimina 'ida , wali Muhammadin sal lal lahu 'Alaihi wa Alihi, zukhran wa sharafan wa karamatan wa mazida an tusalliya 'ala Muhammad wa Ali Muhammad wa an tudkhilani fi kulli khayrin adkhalta fihi Muhammadan wa Ala Muhammad wa an tukhrijani min kulli su'in akhrajta minhu Muhammadan wa Ala Muhammad salawatuka 'alahi wa 'alahim. Alla humma inni as aluka khayra ma sa alaka bihi ibadukas salihun, wa auzubika mim masta aza minhu ibadukal mukhlasun.

Dua’a Khatmul Quran- after finishing Quran



Recite this Duaa after Khitma of the Holy Qur’an, it is narrated by Imam Ali (A.S.)

Bismillaar-Rahmaanir-Raheem. Allaahummashrah Bil Qur’ani Swadree Wasta’amil Bil Qur’ani Badanee Wa Nawwir Bil Qur’ani Baswaree Wa Atliq Bil Qur’ani Lisaanee Wa A’innee Alayhi Maa Abqaytanee Fa Innaahoo Laa Hawla Walaa Quwwata Illaa Bika. ( Dua e ameerul momineen(a.s) Read More

Zakat al Fitrah

It is Wajib to give Fitra to the needy in your hometown first. It is not necessary to tell that the money given to the needy is of Fitra. It is recommended to give preference to one’s relatives when giving fitrah, then to the neighbors and then ahlul ilm people of learning. Read More

Fitrah should not be sent outside the town

Fitrah should not be sent outside the town

Fitrah should not be sent outside the town one resides in if there are deserving people in that town.


“Felicitous is he who purifies himself, celebrates the Name of his Lord, and prays.” (87:14)
“For your fast to be accepted, give zakaat.” (Imam as-Sadiq, as)

According to the Shariah, Fitra becomes incumbent when the new moon of Shawwal is sighted. This is known as Zakat of Fitra, which is Wajib on every Baligh person.
If you have a guest with you, who has arrived at your house before sunset on the eve of Eid ul Fitr, then his/her Fitra is WAJIB upon you.

As per law 1999 of Ayatullah Seestani’s ‘Islamic laws’: “At the time of sunset on Eid ul Fitr, whoever is adult and sane and is neither unconscious, nor poor, or the slave of another, he should give, on his own behalf as well as on behalf of all those who are his dependents, about three kilos per head of wheat or barley or dates or raisins or rice of millet etc. It is also sufficient if he pays the price of one of these items in case”

Some Important Question i am adding here:

WHEN DOES FITRAH BECOME WAJIB? The Fitrah becomes wajib (obligatory) after the sunset on the eve of Eidul Fitr. It should be kept aside and paid on Eidul Fitr before Eid prayers or before midday for those who do not say their Eid prayers. It is essential to have an obligatory intention (niyyat) of paying Fitrah for God’s pleasure only.

WHAT HAPPENS IF FITRAH IS NOT PAID ON TIME? If one does not pay or set aside the Fitrah within the due time, he should give the Fitrah later, on the basis of precaution, without making the niyyah of adaa or qadhaaa but only Qurbatan Ilallah.

CAN WE GIVE FITRAH IN ADVANCE? Giving Fitrah before the eve of Eidul Fitr is not permissible. However, if you wish to send Fitrah earlier so that it reaches the needy on Eid day, then send it out as a temporary loan to the needy and then change your intention to Fitrah on the eve of Eid.

WHO IS SUPPOSED TO PAY THE FITRA? It is obligatory to pay Fitrah on every Muslim who is mature (baligh), sane, financially able, and conscious on the eve of Eidul Fitr. Fitrah should also be paid on behalf of all dependants (e.g. wife, children) whom one supports financially.

DO WE PAY FITRAH FOR OUR GUESTS? If you invite another person to your house on the eve of Eidul Fitr an d if the guest arrives at your place before sunset ten it is obligatory for you to pay his/her Fitrah. If a person arrives uninvited then it is precautionary obligatory (per Ayatullah As-Sistani) to pay his/her Fitrah. The Late Ayatullah Sayyid al-Khui was of the opinion that it is recommended for the host to pay Fitrah of an uninvited guest.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE GUEST ARRIVES AFTER THE SUNSET ON EID NIGHT? In this case, the guest will pay his/her own Fitrah and it is not obligatory on the host to pay the Fitrah for the guest.

HOW MUCH FITRA SHOULD WE PAY? Fitrah for a person is given on a weight of three kilograms (one sa’a) on any food commodity like wheat, barley, rice, millet, raisins or dates. Some scholars (e.g. Ayatullah As-Sistani) are of the opinion that the item that is not staple food in your place should not be given in Fitrah.

CAN WE GIVE CASH VALUE OF ANY COMMODITY MENITONED ABOVE? Yes, cash value in lieu of any foodstuff mentioned can be given as Fitrah. So, for example, if the price of basmati rice is $2.50 per kg, then the cash value of Fitrah on rice per person would be $7.50.

TO WHOM SHOULD WE GIVE THE FITRAH? It is given to the needy who are unable to meet their own or their dependants annual living expenses, nor do they have the means to do so through earning. According to some scholars (e.g. Ayatollah As-Sistani) such a needy person must be a Shi’ah Ithna Asheri.

WHO CANNOT BE GIVEN THE FITRAH? A needy person who consumes alcohol, does not say his daily prayers (salaat), commits sins openly, or who is known to use the Fitrah in sinful ways does not deserve the Fitrah.


Disposal of Fitra.

ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL RULES THAT WE NEED TO BE AWARE OF?

Following are some important rules:

  1. Fitrah should not be sent outside the town one resides in if there are deserving people in that town.
  2. Fitrah from a non-Sayyid cannot be given to a needy Sayyid; the reverse is permissible
  3. A needy should be given at least one Fitrah.
  4. Amongst the needy, relatives should be preferred over others when giving Fitrah; next in line are neighbors and then the learned.

CAN WE GIVE FITRAH IN ADVANCE? Giving Fitrah before the eve of Eidul Fitr is not permissible. However, if you wish to send Fitrah earlier so that it reaches the needy on Eid day, then send it out as a temporary loan to the needy and then change your intention to Fitrah on the eve of Eid.

FITRA CAN BE GIVEN TO:
Any Shia Ithna Asheri who is poor; but preference has been
given to:
a. Needy blood relations;
b. Needy neighbours;
c. Needy scholars.
3.
It is Wajib to give Fitra to the needy in your hometown first.
It is not necessary to tell that the money given to the needy is of
Fitra.

Note: if there are deserving people in that town and you want to pay it online. Visit.and pay by using Paypal or Credit card.
S.M.MAsoom
www.alqaem.org
www.alqaim.info/project

When to Pray?

The Five Daily obligatory Prayers

Fajr
Say your prayer when the sun declines until the darkness of night and also at dawn. Dawn is certainly witnessed (by the angels of the night and day) (17:78).
Zuhr
To Him belongs all the thanks giving which takes place in the heavens and the earth, in the evenings and the noontime. (30:18).
Asr
Pay due attention to your prayers, especially the middle prayer and stand up while praying, in obedience to God.(2:238).
Maghrib
Say your prayers in the morning, the last portion of the day, and at the beginning of the night. Good deeds do away with the bad deeds. This is a reminder for those who take heed (11:114).

Isha
Believers, your slaves and the immature people must ask your permission three times a day before entering your house: before the morning prayer, at noon time and after the late evening prayer; these are most private times. After your permission has been granted, there is no harm if they come into your presence from time to time. This is how God explains His revelations to you. God is All-knowing and All-wise. (24:58)

Method of Salat Along with Pictures
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Friday (Jumu'ah) Prayers

Believers, on Friday when the call for prayer is made, try to attend prayer (remembering God) and leave off all business. This would be better for you if only you knew it (62:9).

Tahajjud Prayer

Eid Prayers

Funeral (Janazah) Prayers

Namaz e Ayat on lunar and sun exlipse

Helping Others During Ramadan

Helping Others During Ramadan

Salaam alaykum -- greetings in peace!

Ramadan is a time of generosity and sacrifice, a time when Muslims personally experience the hunger and trial of so many throughout the world.

Ramadan is a special time of year , a time when Muslims around the world take a step back from their daily routines and focus on community, charity, fasting, and prayer.

Meet your brothers.

Is there a family in your neighborhood that you haven't seen in a while? A student in a strange new city? A new Muslim who is fasting for the first time? An elderly couple who can't get to the mosque?
Why not invite someone to iftar (dinner to break the daily fast). Even the smallest gesture of kindness can make a huge difference in someone's life.


Help Those in Need

All around the world, and even in your own city, there are people who are suffering from illness, hunger, or desperation. "
Those who spend their property for the cause of God, any time during the day or night, in public or in private, will receive their reward from their Lord. There will be no fear for them nor will they grieve" (Qur'an 2:274).

"
You can never have extended virtue and righteousness unless you spend part of what you dearly love for the cause of God. God knows very well whatever you spend for His cause" (Qur'an 3:92).

support Others

Is your local mosque hosting iftar dinners? Why not help with the planning or clean-up? Is a local charity raising funds for humanitarian aid? Is there a local Islamic school that needs guest teachers? Find out what you can do to help.

Pray for Others

(Muhammad)" if any of My servants ask you about Me, tell them that the Lord says, "I am near; I accept the prayers of those who pray." Let My servants answer My call and believe in Me so that perhaps they may know the right direction" (Qur'an 2:186).
Most importantly, during this very special month, take the time to pray for others - your family, your loved ones, those who are ill, those who live in fear, those who go hungry, those who walk in darkness. May Allah guide all of us upon the straight path of faith, and help us to be filled with piety, patience, humility, and kindness.

RAMADAN AL MUBARAK EVENTS

RAMADAN AL MUBARAK EVENTS

  • 1st IMAM REZA (A.S.) BECAME WALI AHAD. HAZRAT IBRAHIM RECEIVED IMAMAT.
  • 4th TORAH REVEALED UPON MUSA(A.S.)
  • 5th COINS BEARING IMAM REZA’S NAME WERE RELEASED & MASOOM PLEDGED ALLEGIANCE TO IMAM REZA (A.S.)
  • 10th WAFAT OF BIBI KHADIJA (A.S.)
  • 12th INJEEL (BIBLE) REVEALED UPON ISA (A.S.)
  • 15th WILADAT OF IMAM HASAN (A.S.)
  • 17th VICTORY AT WAR OF BADR
  • 18th LAILATUL QADR
  • 19th YOM-E-ZARBAT OF IMAM ALI (A.S.) & The Lailatul Qadar
  • 20th CONQUEST (VICTORY) OF MECCA (FATAH-E-MECCAE) HAZRAT ALI (A.S.) CLIMBS THE SHOULDER OF PROPHET & BREAKS IDOLS. KAABA CLEANED.
  • 21st SHAHADAT OF IMAM ALI (A.S.) & HazratIsa (A.S.) is lifted to the heavens
  • 22nd LAILATUL QADR ( NAZOOL-QURAN)
  • 29th BATTLE OF HUNAYN VICTORY

  • This is the month in which all scriptures (Sohaf) were revealed: Sahifa-e-Abraham on 1st of Ramazan, Taurah On 2nd, Gospel on 12th, the Psalms on 18th while. The Holy Quran was revealed on 23rd of this month.

    The death anniversary of MOHSENA-E-ISLAM Hazrat Khadeeja-tul-Kubra (A.S) on 10th Ramazan is being observed by momineen as Youm-e-gham,

    15th of this holy month is birthday of Hazrat Imam Hasan (A.S), the grandson of Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (P.B.U.H) about whom Hazrat Muhammad said “Hasan (A.S) and Hussain (A.S) are the masters of youngs in paradise”

    while 19th, 20th and 21st, these days as Ayyaam-e-Aza (mourning days) in connection with Martyrdom of Imam-ul-Muttaqeen Hazrat Ali Ibn-e-Abi-Talib (A.S). Laila-Tul-Qadr (the night of glory)

    on 23rd Ramazan which is made better than a thousand months is being observed by momineen as a Youm-e-Dua’a (Prayer day) and Jumma-tul-Wida as Youm-ul-Quds (Alquds day) to express solidarity with oppressed.

    Al-Qaem Ramzan Message

    Ramzan Mubarak

    "O you who believe! Observing As-Sawm (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious)" (Al-Baqarah 2:183)

    "The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong)." (Al-Baqarah 2:185)


    Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh,

    The month of Allah (Ramadan) has approached you with His mercy and blessings.Your good deeds are accepted in this month. So are your invocations. Therefore, you must invoke your Lord, in right earnest, with hearts that are free from sins and evils, that Allah may bless you, observe fast, in this month, and recite the Holy Qur'an

    Verily! The person who may not receive the mercy and benevolence of Allah in this month must be very unfortunate having an end as bad (in the Hereafter). While fasting, remember the hunger and thirst of tomorrow in Qiyamat. Give alms to the poor and the needy. Pay respects to your elders.

    Have pity on those younger than you and be kind towards your relatives and kinsmen. Guard your tongues against unworthy words, and your eyes from such scenes that are not worth seeing (forbidden) and your ears from such sounds that should not be heard by you.

    Be kind to orphans so that when your children become orphans they also may be treated with kindness. Do invoke that Allah may forgive your sins. Do raise your hands at the time of Salat (Prayers), as it is the best time for asking His mercy. When we invoke at such times, we are answered by Him, when we call Him, He responds, and when we ask for anything, it is accepted by Him.

    A believer looks forward to the month of Ramadhan. He enjoys the beauty of spirit that Ramadhan begins, the warmth of carrying out the orders of Allah, the hope of achieving His pleasure, and the happiness at being able to obey the commands of Allah. He is happy when the month arrives and sad when it departs.

    Ramadhan requires that we set aside more time than normal for worship and prayers. A believer plans his time in such a way that in Ramadhan he is not overwhelmed by the demands of the world. He lessens work if possible and cuts down on activities which can be put to a halt for a little while. The chance to earn rewards and blessings from Allah in this special time will only last a limited time. Believers must make sure their daily schedules allow maximum benefit of this special time.

    An important part of worship in Ramadhan includes reciting the Qur'an regularly. A Hadith tells us, Ramadhan is the Spring of the Qur'an. Understanding the word of Allah, and pondering over it should be daily activities in this holy month. A believer makes sure he has a copy of the Qur'an which is easy to read, and which has a simple translation which he can understand. If time permits, he should also read the commentary of the Qur'an. It is also important to have the right books for the Duas and A`amaals for this month.

    Ramadhan is the best time to donate in the way of Allah. To feed the hungry or give to the needy is an act of great reward, especially during the holy month. Before the month of Ramadhan, a believer decides how much he can afford to give, chooses a worthwhile charity and sends his donation. This is a recommended charity, different from the zakatul Fitra which is obligatory for Eid. Hadith tells us that charity cools the anger of Allah and brings down many blessings on the giver. In the month of Ramadhan this rewards is multiplied many times.

    Fastings is not mere abstinence from food and drink, as we have heard many times. It is also staying away from all sins. While fasting, all the organs of the body fast, and refrain from doing anything which would displease Allah. A believer makes a firm decision to avoid all sins that he commits most often, and plans how he will stay away from them during the month. This conscious preparation of a war against sins is a very necessary item in the baggage of a believer in his journey towards Allah

    In his sermon at the approach of the holy month of Ramadhan, the Prophet (s) said: Whoever lightens the work of his workers in this month, Allah will make easy his accounting on the Day of Judgement. This does not only apply to those who have workers working for them. To help and lessen the work of others: parents, siblings, relatives, friends, etc. during the holy month is an act of great virtue. It eases the load of the other person, and brings about kindness and affection. Cooperating and assisting one another is greatly loved by Allah.

    The real aim of fasting is to purify the soul from forbidden desires and customs. Reaching such an aim depends upon renouncing bad habits, and holding on to them is a form of slavery.


    Imam Zaynul Abidin (a): The right of charity is that you know that it is a storing way with your Lord, and a deposit for which you will have no need of witnesses. If you deposit it in secret, you will be more confident of it than if you deposit it in public. You should know that it repels affliction and illnesses from you in this world and it will repel the fire from you in the next world. REF: Risalatul Huqooq by Imam Zaynul Abidin (a)



    The Almighty Lord of the World graced us with the ability to continue our Guidence through Teachings of Islam and Practice of ahlulbayt by online spiritual newsletters and messages, and other activities as mentioned here. Shukr Wa-AlHamdulillah.



    Thank you for all your suggestions, encouragement and your willingness to continue receiving such religious and spiritual Islamic messages.We also thank all of you who support us time to time and help us in spreading Practices of ahlulbayt. May The Almighty Lord bless, protect, and reward those who do good deeds with goodness for their kindness, both in this world, and an even more excellent reward in the hereafter, Ameen.

    Wa Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakatuh

    Secretary
    mumbai India

    Admin
    mumbai India

    Method of Salat Along with Pictures
    SALAT VIDEO (SHIA ITHNASHREE)

    MAJALIS SHAB E ZARBAT MAULA ALI (A.S)

    MAJALIS SHAB E ZARBAT MAULA ALI (A.S)



    DUA E HAZRAT ALI(A.S), MEESUM ABBAS



    Ya Maula Ali 1429 (2008) Nawha - Mesum Abbas


    INDIAN NAUHA QOTELAL AMEERAL MOMENEE a.s.

    Islamic Teachings Presentations........Beautiful Collection must see

    As-Salamo Alaika Ya Baqiyyatul-Lahe Fee Arzehi!

    Slides are an effective teaching tool in the classroom and to this end, SI Madressa is introducing a series of powerpoint slides.

    Duties towards a Mayyit - Part 1: Sakarat

    Duties towards a Mayyit - Part 2: Rules For Performing Ghusl

    Duties towards a Mayyit - Part 3: The Kafan (shrouding)

    Duties towards a Mayyit - Part 4: Salaat-e-Mayyit and Burial

    Explains the 10 Branches of Religion

    Rules of Fasting

    Halal and Haraam Foods

    Covers all Ghusls Wajib for Men and Women, as well as how to perform Ghusl

    Covers all aspects of Haj from Umra-e Tamattu

    These slides show what to do when one has an Obstruction, Bandage, or Medicine on a Part of Wudhu

    Covers Details on Ghusls which are Wajib only for Women

    Explains Terms used within the Syllabus

    Talks about Compulsory and voluntary Taxes in Islam

    Discusses that which make Najis things Pak

    Explains how one should go about making a Vow, Oath, or Covenant within Shariah

    Discusses Mustahab Prayers which carry a lot of Benefit if offerred

    Discusses those things which are Impure

    Explains how to find the Direction to Pray and what to do if you haven’t got a clue

    Translation of the Dhikr of Salaat in English

    Discusses the Rules of Praying

    Explains when to offer Prayers of Ayaat, and how to offer them

    Explains how to offer Prayers on Eid

    Discussed the benefits of Praying Together and how to do it

    Explains the Rules of Friday Prayers

    Explains Rules of how to Offer Prayers when Travelling

    Explains what to do when in Doubt in Prayers

    Discusses the Attributes of God

    Discusses the Attributes God does not have

    Discusses one of the Responsibilities when becoming Baligh

    Discusses Alternatives to Performing Wudhu or Ghusl

    Explanation of Terminology generally used within the Syllabus

    Discusses the Roots of Religion

    Explains the Compulsory Actions of Prayer

    Explains how to Wash oneself in Preparation for Prayers

    Discusses another Islamix Tax

    Islamic Books@ In Hindi Language

    Namaz, Hadith in HINDI

    wassalam

    As for the fasting, it requires patience and endurance.

    The Holy Month of Ramadhan, which begins after the crescent of the new moon is spotted, is one of the most sacred Islamic observances because it marks the month in which Allah revealed the Holy Qur'an to Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h), bringing with it all the glory. This is the month in which the doors of heavens are kept open, doors of hell are closed and Satan is kept in chains.

    Ramadhan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Abstaining from eating, drinking and sexual intercourse between dawn and dusk is simply the means to attain the spiritual experience, but it is certainly not the ends. Each Ramadhan brings new insights and meanings for the faithful.

    The main purpose of fasting is described in the Qur'an as "so that you may attain taqwa or God-consciousness". Fasting is thus yet another instrument for bringing us closer to our natural state, our state of fitrah and for cleansing this state from the dross of any disobedience and corruption.

    Ramadhan is a month of heightened devotion. In it, Salaat is performed with greater intensity. It is a period of intense reflection and devotion, seeking guidance and forgiveness, and reading the Qur'an. Ramadhan is a great opportunity to get closer to the blessed guidance of the Qur'an which was revealed in this month. Ramadhan is also called the month of the Qur'an.

    The month of Ramadhan is an opportunity to develop qualities of endurance and self-restraint, to control anger and a fiery or malicious tongue.

    Ramadhan is a time to awaken compassion and solidarity with others and in particular with the poor. We are urged to be more liberal in giving during Ramadhan and are required at the end of fasting to give Zakat al Fitr, an amount to enable all to share in the spirit of warmth, affection and brotherhood.

    Ramadhan is above all an opportunity to reorient oneself to the Creator and the natural path of goodness and God-consciousness.

    Fasting has long been revered as a path to holiness among many of the world's religions. But the practice is not as widespread as it once was, except among Muslims, who regard fasting (siyam) as a pillar of faith. For Muslims, Ramadhan isn't considered a hardship, but a time of charity and fellowship, so revered that even those most lax in their faith are observant.

    Jews and Christians share similar beliefs. For instance, the Jewish fast day of Yom Kippur is a time of solemnity as well as joy. Fasting is considered part of the process of atonement.

    The heyday for fasting among Christians was the Middle Ages. In its extreme form, saints such as Catherine of Siena and Clare of Assisi fasted to near starvation and often flogged themselves to gain control over carnal desires and induce mystical visions.

    Fasting is not obligated for the reason of instigating hunger so that other desires are suppressed. Rather, fasting should make the believer closer to Allah (swt) and hence it becomes easier for him to abstain from committing the Haram.

    Here, we must note, any divine rule is associated with some effort or hardship. And some obligations require more hardship than others. For example, Jihad requires more effort and energy than fasting. But the hardship itself is not a reason for the legislation of the obligation. However, Allah (swt) will reward man according how much effort and energy he puts into the fulfilling of the divine rule.

    As for the fasting, it requires patience and endurance. Allah (swt) declared:
    "O you who believe! be patient and excel in patience and remain steadfast, and be careful of (your duty to) Allah, that you may be successful." (Qur'an 3:200)
    The evening of the 23rd day of the month marks the most special day of the year for believers as Laylat-al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) is observed. It is believed that on this night Prophet Muhammad first received the revelation of the Holy Quran. Any prayer or deed is returned manifold and all sins are forgiven

    "To be healthy, one must consume food from the major food groups: bread and cereal, milk and dairy product, meat and bean, vegetable and fruit. During the month long fast of Ramadan the metabolic rate of a fasting person slows down and other regulatory mechanisms start functioning. Body and dietary fat is efficiently utilized. Consuming total food intake that is less than the total food intake during normal days is sufficient to maintain a person's health. Intake of fruits after a meal is strongly suggested. A balanced diet improves blood cholesterol profile, reduces gastric acidity, prevents constipation and other digestive problems, and contributes to an active and healthy life style."

    - (Int. J. Ramadan Fasting Research, 3:1-6, 1999)


    Laylatul Qadr


    qadrfrontpic.jpg

    Pursa le leejiye, Ya Imam Zaman

    Ghadeer Aaakhri Khuta Rasoolillah ka Sun leejiyae

    Zarbat gah of Moula Ali {a.s} Video

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    Zarbat gah of Moula Ali {a.s} Video

    Recite Qur’an as much as possible

    You who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may be mindful of God [Surah al-Baqarah: 183]

    Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh,

    Ramadan is almost here! The build up and excited anticipation leading up to this great month of mercy is difficult to put into words. It is the month of ibaadah (worship). It is the month of discipline.

    It is the month of Qur’an (recite it, read translation of the meanings, implement it). The best way to connect yourself with Allah is to read the Qur’an.

    Shaykh Muhammad AlShareef said: if you want to know what your relationship with Allah is then look at your relationship with the Qur’an

    Recite Qur’an as much as possible
    It is an opportunity to get more reward and wipe out our sins, by increasing our good deeds and decreasing our bad deeds.
    Approach this Ramadan as though it’s your last Ramadan
    No doubt, there are countless books, articles, and multimedia dedicated to Ramadan and fasting. I have selected a few I’ve found useful over the years and some that I’ve discovered recently. The main point is if you have been preparing for Ramadan, then mashaAllah, but if you haven’t, what’s stopping you?! The more prepared and organised you are, the more time you can spend on ibaadah

    Welcoming the Month of Ramadhan

    Welcoming the Month of Ramadhan

    The Sermon Given By The Prophet (s) On The Last Friday Of Sha'ban On The Reception Of The Month of Ramadhan.

    O People!
    Indeed ahead of you is the blessed month of Allah.
    A month of blessing, mercy and forgiveness.
    A month which with Allah is the best of months.
    Its days, the best of days, its nights,
    the best of nights, and its hours, the best of hours.

    It is the month which invites you to be the guests of Allah
    and invites you to be one of those near to Him.

    Each breath you take glorifies him;
    your sleep is worship,
    your deeds are accepted
    and your supplications are answered.

    So, ask Allah, your Lord;
    to give you a sound body
    and an enlightened heart
    so you may be able to fast and recite his book,
    for only he is unhappy who is devoid
    of Allah's forgiveness during this great month.

    Remember the hunger and thirst of the day of Qiyaamah (Judgment)
    with your hunger and thirst;
    give alms to the needy and poor,
    honor your old,
    show kindness to the young ones,
    maintain relations with your blood relations;
    guard your tongues,
    close your eyes to that which is not permissible for your sight,
    close your ears to that which is forbidden to hear,
    show compassion to the orphans of people
    so compassion may be shown to your orphans.

    Repent to Allah for your sins
    and raise your hands in dua during these times,
    for they are the best of times and
    Allah looks towards his creatures with kindness,
    replying to them during the hours
    and granting their needs if he is asked...

    O People! Indeed your souls are
    dependant on your deeds, free it with Istighfar (repentance)
    lighten its loads by long prostrations;
    and know that Allah swears by his might:
    That there is no punishment for the one who
    prays and prostrates and he shall have no fear of the fire on the
    day when man stands before the Lord of the worlds.

    O People! One who gives Iftaar to a
    fasting person during this month will be like one who has freed
    someone and his past sins will be forgiven.

    Some of the people who were there then asked
    the Prophet (s): "Not all of us are able to
    invite those who are fasting?"

    The Prophet (s) replied: "Allah gives
    this reward even if the Iftaar (meal) is a drink of water."

    One who has good morals (Akhlaq)
    during this month will be able to pass the
    ‘Siraat’...on the day that feet will slip...

    One who covers the faults of others
    will benefit in that Allah will curb
    His anger on the day of Judgment...

    As for one who honors an orphan;
    Allah will honor him on the day of judgment,

    And for the one who spreads his kindness,
    Allah will spread His mercy over him on the day of Judgment.

    As for the one who cuts the ties of relation;
    Allah will cut His mercy from him...

    Who so ever performs a recommended prayer in this month
    Allah will keep the fire of Hell away from him...

    Whoever performs an obligator prayer
    Allah will reward him with seventy prayers [worth] in this month.

    And who so ever prays a lot during this month
    will have his load lightened on the day of measure.

    He who recites one verse of the holy Qur'an
    will be given the rewards of reciting the whole Qur’an during other months.

    O People!
    Indeed during this month
    the doors of heaven are open,
    therefore ask Allah not to close them for you;
    The doors of hell are closed,
    so ask Allah to keep them closed for you.
    During this month Shaytan (Satan) is imprisoned
    so ask your Lord not to let him have power over you."

    The objective and subjective merits of the month of Ramadhan

    To describe the objective and subjective merits of the month of Ramadhan, which justify its higher rank over other months, it is more suitable to refer to the words of the Almighty Allah, and His Last Prophet.

    The Holy Qur’an says:

    O you who believe! fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may guard (against evil).

    For a certain number of days; but whoever among you is sick or on a journey, then (he shall fast) a (like) number of other days; and those who are not able to do it may effect a redemption by feeding a poor man; so whoever does good spontaneously it is better for him; and that you fast is better for you if you know.

    The month of Ramazan is that in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance to men and clear proofs of the guidance and the distinction; therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein, and whoever is sick or upon a journey, then (he shall fast) a (like) number of other days; Allah desires ease for you, and He does not desire for you difficulty, and (He desires) that you should complete the number and that you should exalt the greatness of Allah for His having guided you and that you may give thanks. (AL BAQARAH: 183 to 185)
    It is made lawful to you to go into your wives on the night of the fast; they are an apparel for you and you are an apparel for them; Allah knew that you acted unfaithfully to yourselves, so He has turned to you (mercifully) and removed from you (this burden); so now be in contact with them and seek what Allah has ordained for you, and eat and drink until the whiteness of the day becomes distinct from the blackness of the night at dawn, then complete the fast till night, and have not contact with them while you keep to the mosques; these are the limits of Allah, so do not go near them. Thus does Allah make clear His communications for men that they may guard (against evil). (AL BAQARAH: 187)
    And men who fast and women who fast…Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward. (AL AH’ZAAB: 35)
    The Holy Qur’an was revealed to the Holy Prophet (S.A.) in the month of Ramaz’aan.

    Fasting throughout the month has been made obligatory.

    Fasting is one of the "Waajib" (obligatory) rules of conduct laid down by Islam.

    Shayk Suddooq (R.A.) quotes Imam Ali bin Moosa Ar Riza (A.S.) that he received from his Holy ancestors, on the authority of Imam Ali ibna Abi Taalib (A.S.), the text of the speech the Holy Prophet used to deliver at the advent of the blessed month of Ramaz’an:

    The Holy Prophet (S.A.) said:
    "O men and women! Draws near unto you the blessed month, overflowing with advantages, merciful, ready to put up your sins of omission and commission to Allah for obtaining His forgiveness. Its days, nights and hours, in the estimation of Allah, are more select, refined and important than the days, nights and hours of other months. It surpasses all months in merits and favors".
    In this month you are the guests of Allah, enjoying His hospitality, you are from among His favorites, your breathing is "praise of Allah", your sleep is His worship, your prayers receive His approval, your invocations are sanctioned. So, sincerely, free from evil and sinful thoughts and actions, with clear conscience, pray and request that He may give your heart and confidence to observe fast and recite the Holy Qur’an and dua’as throughout this month.

    He who does not receive mercy and forgiveness in this month is really an ill-fated unfortunate, condemned to everlasting unhappiness and deprivation.

    Thirst and hunger you undergo, feel and live through, her and now, bring to your memory the severity and sharpness of the drought and starvation that will be the order of the day on the Day of Judgement.

    Give alms to the poor and the destitute.
    Treat your parents and elders with respect.
    Be kind and loving to your children and juniors.
    Take care of and look after your kith and kin.
    Keep from giving tongue to that which should not even be whispered.
    Shut your eyes to that which is indecent to have an eye for.
    Turn a deaf ear to that which is too slanderous to be all ears.
    Be compassionate, gentle and benign unto orphans so that after you, your children, if need be, receive the same treatment from others.
    Turn repentant to Allah and seek His nearness.

    After every prayer recite dua’s to invoke His mercy and forgiveness because the most suitable time to get fulfillment of desires is when you have prayed a salat, the Almighty gives answer to His servants who call Him in these moments.

    O People! In truth and fact your bodies and souls are held in pledge, strike a bargain to set them free by asking forgiveness of Allah. Your backs are burdened with a hard to endure load of sins, prostrate yourselves in adoration of Allah, a great deal, to make the drag less heavy, because the Lord of the Worlds has given His word, in the Name of His Might and Honor, not to take to task those who pray and prostrate in this month, the flames of the fire will not frighten them.

    O People! Whoso provides a meal to a faithful, at the time of breaking the fast, earns the recompense of setting an enslaved human being free.

    O People! In this month, whoso makes better his or her morals will cross the "Bridge of Siraat" with ease and finesse, where people, at every step, would stumble and fall; whoso gives leisure and respite to his or her employees will receive equivalent leniency on the Day of Reckoning; whoso takes care of and looks after the orphans and relatives will be treated mercifully on the Day of Judgement; whoso prays optional salats will get the immunity from Hellfire, and praying of obligatory salats, in prime time, multiply the good in leaps and bounds; whoso recites even one verse of the Holy Qur’an, obtains the reward of a full recital of the whole Book in the other months.

    O People! In this month, beyond a shadow of a doubt, the doors of the everlasting bliss and happiness are thrown open, so beseech Allah not ever to shut them off to our face; and the traps of the eternal curse are unhinged, so make a request to Allah to remove them from your path for ever; the devils are held in chains, so pray to Allah not to set them free for leading your astray.

    The month of Rama’zan is very dear to Allah. It is the most august of all months, pure, generous and merciful.

    Do not let its nights go waste in slumber, its days in careless omission or loss of remembrance of Allah.

    Things which invalidate the Fast

    Things which invalidate the Fast

    1. Eating and drinking.
    2. Ascribing false things to Allah, Prophet (S) or with the successors of the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H.).
    3. Making dust reach one's throat.
    4. Immersing one's head completely in water.
    5. *Not fulfilling Ghusls that are Wajib upon you before Azan of Fajr prayers.
    6. Vomiting.
    7. Sexual relations.
    8. Doing any such thing by which semen comes out.

    * To intentionally remain in a state of impurity caused by Janabat, Haidh or Nifas up to Subhe Sadiq of a month of Ramadhan fast or its Qaza.

    Things to avoid when Fasting

    1. Eyedrops or Surma, etc whose taste or smell can be felt in the throat.
    2. Actions which would make you physically weak.
    3. Keeping a wet cloth on the body for the sake of cooling.
    4. Snuff and fragrance from sweet plants and flowers.
    5. Tooth extraction or any other action which will cause you to bleed.
    6. A wet tooth brush for brushing.
    7. Putting water or using any kind of mouthwash unnecessarily.

    The above 7 things do not break your fast if you do them but it is better if you do not do them.

    Types of Fasts

    Types of Fasts

    • Islam has made fasting obligatory for all men and women who have attained the age of Bulugh.
    • To kill our low instincts and to help us acknowledge that we have a will power which enables us to abstain from certain things which if done will invalidate the fast. As a result it helps us to strengthen our will power against those things which are Haraam and cause us to commit sin if we do them.
    • Brings about Unity amongst you and those living near you, in that while you are fasting you are aware that there are others close by who are also fasting and in the same way when you have Iftar there are others doing the same. It creates a feeling of brotherhood.
    • As you feel hungry you begin to realise how the people who are poor and cannot afford food suffer daily in their lives and as a result of your fasting you may feel that you should do something for them. However, sadly we tend to forget all about our hunger at the time of Iftar when we eat a lot to make up for fasting; for this we have been advised by our Holy Prophet (S) to eat only enough to kill the hunger and not more.

    WAJIB FASTS

    1. Fast during the month of Ramadhan.
    2. Qaza fast for the month of Ramadhan.
    3. Fast becoming wajib on account of Kaffara.
    4. Qaza fasts of a dead person becoming wajib on the eldest son.
    5. Fasts becoming Qaza due to Nazar, Qasam or Ahad.
    6. Fast is broken or left out intentionally.

    SUNNAT FASTS

    1. On all days of Rajab and Shaban or on as many as is possible to fast, even if it is only one day.
    2. On 13th, 14th and 15th of every Lunar month.
    3. The day of Nawroz (21 March)
    4. From the 4th up to the 9th of Shawwal.
    5. The 25th and the 29th day of Zilqad.
    6. The first and last Thursday of every month AND the first Wednesday after the 10th of every month.
    7. From the 1st day to the 9th day of the month of Zilhajj.
    8. The 18th of Zilhajj - Eid-e-Ghadeer.
    9. The 24th of Zilhajj - Eid-e-Mubahela.
    10. The 1st, 3rd and 7th day of Muharram.
    11. The 17th of Rabiul Awwal - Birthday of our Holy Prophet (S).
    12. The 15th of Jamadiul Awwal.
    13. The 27th of Rajab - the appointment of the Holy Prophet (S) to the prophetic mission (Bi'that).

    Fasting is Mustahab on all the days of the year except on those days on which it is Haraam to observe fast. Some are mentioned below.

    HARAAM FASTS

    1. Eid-ul-Fitr.
    2. Eid-ul-Hajj.
    3. A fast kept despite illness.

    MAKRUH FAST
    It is Makruh to fast on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura Day).

    Sufferings of the True Believers

    Sufferings of the True Believers

    The true believers in Imamate and the teachings of the Holy Imams were subjected to such atrocities that I am at a loss to understand from where I should begin and where I should end them. But since our purpose is to refer to them, we should like to content ourselves with mentioning some of them.

    (i) Social Injustice: By taking the Fadak, which yielded sufficient income in those days, from Imam Ali his financial condition was purposely weakened.

    (ii) Slandering: Our oppressed Imams were subjected to slanders of the worst kind so much so that when the people of Syria heard of the martyrdom of Imam Ali in the Kufa mosque they started asking for what purpose he happened to go to the Masjid? Was he amongst those who went there to offer prayers?

    (iii) Patronizing the Imams' Enemies: In order to weaken the position of the Imams, their enemies were given full support and encouragement.

    (iv) Injustice to Thinking and Understanding: By raising the slogan "Qur'an is enough for us" the people were prevented from listening to the traditions of the Holy Prophet. The infallible Imam were forced to remain tight-lipped. By this the very source of knowledge and wisdom was cut off from the people.

    (v) Deprivation of the Well-wishers: The kinsmen and the ahlul bayt of the Holy Prophet were deprived of their due share from the Public Treasury.

    (vi) Fictitious Traditions: Through man like Abu Hurayra the traditions from the Holy Prophet were concocted and fictitious traditions were produced for the purpose of extolling Bani Umayyah and disparaging Bani Hashim. Fictitious traditions were concocted in such a large number that it became difficult to sort out the authentic and genuine traditions.

    (vii) Tampering with the Facts: The narrations about Imamate and guidance were so tampered with and misinterpreted that the people failed to realize their importance.

    (viii) Distorted Concept of Imamate: The institution of Imamate which was established according to the covenant of Allah, was degraded to such an extent that it was brought to the level of Yazid's barbaric rulership.

    (ix) The Ignorant Substituted for the Learned: All the Divine values and standards were brought to naught. Everyone by dint of power and authority changed the course of society according to his own whims and wishes. Instead of following the leader who used to say, 'Ask me what you want, I will answer you' they followed the leader who used to say, 'Don't ask me; I don't know, leave me alone'. The people instead of going towards Imam Ali, the 'gate of knowledge' followed the caliph Umar, who after facing difficulties in all types of problems used to seek the advice of Imam Ali and used say, "If Ali had not come to my rescue, I would have been ruined".

    (x) Excuses and Animosity: One excuse that was put forward was that Imam Ali was younger in age and of lively nature. Many Muslims had a grudge against Imam Ali because in the Battles of Khaybar, Badr, Uhud and Hunayn he had put the disbelieving ancestors of the converted Muslims to death. That deep-seated rancour and animosity had forced Imam Ali to go into seclusion so much so that he said that he was subjected to oppression from the very first day. The fact remains that the high attributes and virtues of Imam Ali have been so expressively and widely narrated that no other companion of the Holy Prophet can equal him in these attributes but despite this highly exalted position, he was ignored! Truly speaking, can a person of lively nature not be an able man? Did the Holy Prophet in his last days not depute Usama, an eighteen year old young man, as the Commander of the Army to lead the expedition to Syria despite the presence of Abu Bakr and Umar? Is the old age a eondition for becoming a leader? Has not the Holy Qur'an made knowledge, piety, jihad, migration, dedicated services, sincerity and honesty the criteria of human values and virtues? Then for what other reasons did we go against Divine principles of judging the merits and adopted a different standard altogether?

    (xi) Imam Himself Remained Aloof: The most important thing is that the people say that Imam Ali had contented himself with the religious and spiritual leadership of the people only and left the political and military leadership to others. It is difficult to understand that the exhortations of the Holy Imam in Nahjul Balaghah (Peak of Eloquence, ISP, 1984) were only for the people coming to him for the solution of religious problems only. Does anyone need to owe allegiance for seeking an advice on religious matter? The Holy Imam several times complained of the violation of his political rights. He never complained that the people did not consult him on religious matters, for the people were compelled to ask him about religious problems.

    (xii) Reason Behind Forsaking the Imam: It is highly painful to note that the people say how it was possible that all the people were in the wrong by forsaking the Imam and owing allegiance to others? They say that in fact when the people forsook the Imam there must have been some good reason behind it. The answer to this is that first of all not all the people forsook Imam Ali and secondly the majority is not the proof of truth. Should the clear-cut injunctions and commandments of the Holy Qur'an be abandoned and people's conduct should be viewed only? It seems that these people have totally forgotten the last verses of Surah Jumu'a which say that while the Holy Prophet was busy in delivering his Friday sermon a party of merchants arrived and on the beating of the drum, many of the people detached themselves from the congregation and swarmed round the merchants and only a few of the people remained there to listen to the Holy Prophet. Was leaving the Holy Prophet under such circumstances a correct thing?

    Novel Forms of Tyrannies and Oppression

    Imam Ali was subjected to continuous oppressions. From the time the Holy Prophet asked for the pen and paper and was insolently rebuffed the Holy Imam after the Prophet's demise, had been treated with excessive tyranny up to his last days. Let me be allowed to say that even up to the present time the position of Imam Ali has not been recognized and he remains still as the oppressed one. His words compiled in Nahjul Balaghah has also not been truly understood. Therefore, oppression to him was not confined to his lifetime only but it spreads round the entire period of history.

    The persecutions that our infallible Imams had to suffer were from external sources as well as from their own unworthy people. The oppressions that were done to Imam Ali were not worth complaining because by that the very foundation of the Islamic government would have been demolished and, therefore, he kept patient like one who had a thorn in his eyes or whose throat was choked with a bone. The oppression that was done to the Holy Imam was not by heart, speech, action, or pen alone, but it was of all types which are beyond description. The oppression that was done to our Holy Imam was done in the name of religion and for the purpose of securing the proximity with Allah, so much so that the people in their sermons, on the pulpit, publicly and privately, and even in prayers used to abuse him. The oppression that was done to our Holy Imams was from the same source which they had obtained from them (the Imams) as they obtained strength, knowledge and position from them and used the same on them. The oppression to the Holy Imams was done by unwise friends as well as by wise enemies. On the one hand there were timid, ignorant and foolish friends and on the other there were clever and hypocritical enemies.

    Oppression by Pen

    It is not known as to why many famous scholars from Ahlus Sunnah who were contemporaries of Imam Musa Kazim never cared to quote any tradition of the Holy Prophet from his source. Was Imam Musa Kazim not better than an ordinary narrator? I also cannot understand that why an important book like Sahih Bukhari of Ahlus Sunnah which also includes many traditions originating from the Kharijites, and which contains traditions from over a hundred anonymous writers, and which gives them the stamp of authenticity does not quote any tradition of the Holy Prophet from Imam Ja'far Sadiq and the Holy Imams who followed him? Do all people not know that the Holy Prophet introduced to the people his ahlul bayt together with the Holy Qur'an?

    Leaving aside these differences which are too many, we should overlook them and become united against our common enemy. There are differences of opinion on religious matters among Ahlus Sunnah also, and so they are among the Shi'ah scholars, but these differences should not become the bone of contention and the seed of discord as the flame of disunity and discord may engulf the Ummah in a devastating inferno.

    Allegations Against the Shi'ah

    It is also not understood why the people do not restrain themselves from impugning the Shi'ah and levelling false allegations against them. In reply to these innumerable allegations and calumnies that have been levelled against the Shi'ah we have defended our faith in the pages of thousands of books and in the Masjids and this humble writer, who is just a mere student, has also defended our faith on the Iran Radio and television and which I still repeat. I mean:

    (i) That the Shi'ah do not believe that the Holy Qur'an has been tampered with.

    (ii) That the Shi'ah do not consider their infallible Holy Imams as deities.

    (iii) That the Shi'ah do not consider Bahais and Babis (followers of Bahaullah and Muhammad Ali Bab) as Shi'ah.

    (iv) That the Shi'ah do not consider it obligatory to act upon the four books (al-Kafi, Man la yahzaruhul Faqih, Tahzib and Istabsar) though they consider them good among the good books but they do not believe that whatever is written in them is irrefutable.

    (v) That the Shi'ah do not consider all the companions of the Holy Prophet as renegades and apostate but they believe that just as during the lifetime of the Holy Prophet there were true Muslims and the hypocrites also in the same way they also existed after the passing away of the Holy Prophet. The passing away of the Holy Prophet cannot make the hypocrites as true believers. Thus, those, who claim that all the companions of the Holy Prophet were true believers and just, should tell us as to where the hypocrites of the time of the Holy Prophet disappeared.


    Rights of the Imam on the people

    Imam Ali said to the people, "You and I have rights on each other. My rights on you are:

    (i) You should stick to your oath of allegiance to me.

    (ii) You should remain my well-wisher both in my presence.

    (iii) You should answer me as soon as I summon you, and your rights on me are:

    (i) Sympathy with and wishing well to you

    (ii) Security of the Public treasury

    (iii) Education and training". (Biharul Anwar, vol. XXVII)

    Fitrah According to Fataawa of Ayatullah Sayyid Ali al-Husayni Seestani

    (According to Fataawa of Ayatullah Sayyid Ali al-Husayni Seestani)
    1. Payment of fitrah becomes wajib (obligatory) after sunset on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr on a person who is baligh (attained puberty), aqil (sane), and is neither needy, nor indigent nor unconscious for himself and all his dependants wherever and whoever they are.

    2. For the purpose of fitrah, dependants include guests who are present at the host’s house at the time of sunset on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr. However, if a guest comes without the consent of the host, his fitrah becomes wajib upon the host on the basis of ehtiyat wajib (obligatory precaution). This ruling also applies to a person who is forcibly made to maintain another person. The fitrah of a guest arriving after sunset even if he was invited earlier is not upon the host, unless he is a dependant of the host. (Ehtiyat Mustahab to pay for uninvited guest or one forcibly maintained.)

    3. Fitrah should be given from wheat, barley, raisins, rice or millet or its cash value at the rate of one sa’a (about 3 kg.) per head. On the basis of obligatory precaution (ehtiyat wajib), one should not give fitrah from that food which is not staple in his place, even if it be wheat, barley, dates or raisins. (Staple food has not been made a condition).

    4. Fitrah is given to a needy person who, according to the shari’a is a faqeer, that is, a person who is not able to meet his living expenses for himself and for his dependants for one whole year, nor does he possess the means to earn a livelihood for himself and his dependants. It is ehtiyat wajib that the fitrah is given to a faqeer who is a Shia Ithna-Asheri. (Ehtiyat Mustahab to give to a Shia Ithna-Asheri Faqeer.)
      Note: The faqeer to whom fitrah is given need not necessarily be adil, but it is ehtiyat wajib that fitrah should not be given to a person who drinks liquor, or one who does not perform his daily salaat or one who commits sins openly or one who will use the fitrah in a sinful way.


    5. A non-Seyyid cannot give fitrah to a Seyyid even if he maintains a Seyyid and pays his fitrah.

    6. It is ehtiyat mustahab (recommended precaution) that a faqeer be given a minimum of one full fitrah. More can be given to one person also. (Ehtiyat Wajib to give a minimum of one full fitrah to a person).

    7. I
      f a servant is employed on the condition that the employer will pay all his expenses, then the servant’s fitrah becomes wajib upon the employer. But if the condition is the payment of the salary only, then his fitrah is not wajib upon the employer.


    8. If the price of one type of grain is double that of the other, one cannot give half the measure of the better grain nor its cash value as fitrah.

    9. It is recommended to give preference to one’s relatives when giving fitrah, then to the neighbors and then ahlul ilm (people of learning). Preference, however, can be given to another category of people if there is a good reason to do so.

    10. For those who pray Salatul Eid, it is ehtiyat wajib to give the fitrah before the Eid prayers and for those not praying Salatul Eid the time extends up to before Dhuhr. If fitrah is set aside but not distributed by Dhuhr, then whenever it is disbursed, the niyyah (intention) of fitrah should be made. If one does not give out or set aside the fitrah within the due time, he should give the fitrah later, on the basis of precaution, without making the niyyah of adaa or qadhaa but only qurbatan Ilallah.

    11. An item set aside for fitrah cannot be used or substituted by another item.

    12. On the basis of ehtiyat wajib, fitrah should not be sent outside the town one resides in if there are deserving people in that town. If one does so and the fitrah gets spoiled or lost then it must be given again.

    13. Fitrah cannot be given before the month of Ramadhan and it is better not to give it during the month of Ramadhan. However, if a loan was given to a person who deserves to receive fitrah, then when the fitrah becomes due that amount can be set off against the fitrah.

    14. If fitrah is given from a thing which is inferior or defective, it will not be sufficient.


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