Arafat Sermon From Masjid al-Nimrah in Arafat During Covid-19

The followings are the summarized Arafat Sermon – Khutbah delivered from the Masjid al-Nimrah, Arafah, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah – Arafah Day. The Arafah Sermon was delivered by Sheikh Muhammad ibn Hassan Ali-Sheikh, Member of the Council of Senior Scholars and Head of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Complex for Hadiths. Summarized Khutbah at Arafah Only Worship Allah Subhanahu wa Taala. There is no one worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger. Our Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu wa Sallam said he is the seal of the Prophets. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam conveyed the message of Allah. He affirmed the message with other Prophets’ of God. Perfection of Deen On the Arafah Day Allah Subhanahu wa Taala made the announcement of the Perfection of your Deen and showed all His best favours on you. And this Perfection of Deen is to worship only Allah Subhanahu wa Taala and Allah only. This is the Deen of five pillars. The five pillars of Islam comprise: correct beliefs about Allah, His Angels, His Books and His Messengers and the Last Day as well as the correct belief about Allah’s preordainment, its results are perceived to be good or bad. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala said to mankind that We have sent among you a Messenger who is of your own. He read the Qur’an, reciting to you our evidences, purifying you and teaching you the Qur’an and the Sunnah and teaching you what you have no knowledge of. Therefore, make mention of Me, if you do so I will make mention of you; be grateful to Me and do not be ungrateful of My favours.

Perseverance through hardships Therefore, O Believers, seek help from Allah Subhanahu wa Taala by way of patience, perseverance and prayers. Allah is certainly with those who patiently persevere. Thus, after that, Allah Subhanahu wa Taala mentioned the blessings of sending His Messenger. Allah instructed us to mention Him, be grateful to Him and persevere for Him. Another component of Taqwa is persevering through difficulties one faces which may cause him pain. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala said that those who remains patience, remains steadfast at the time of extreme poverty and illnesses, people who have these qualities they are the ones who have been true to Allah and they are the ones who observe Taqwa. Allah will test with fear, hunger My dear audience, life in this world does not free of difficulty. And this is why Allah Subhanahu wa Taala instructed us to persevere and We shall certainly test you with instances of fear and hunger as well as loss of wealth, lives and fruits. However, Messenger of Allah, you are to convey glad tidings to those who patiently persevere they are the people who, when afflicted with adversaries. “say, “We all most certainly belong to Allah alone and to Him alone we will all most certainly return.”

They are the ones whom their Lord will commend and grant mercy, and they are the ones who are soundly guided. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala also said, as for those who persevere, we shall most certainly reward them according to the best deeds they had performed. Allah’s Preordainment and Decree How could a servant of Allah not persevere if he has sound belief about Allah’s preordainment and decree? He unwaveringly believes that anything which befell him would not have missed him; in that even if everyone throughout the entire Earth gather together to avert what Allah decreed to happen to him, they would remain unable. As it has been explained in the Qur’an that anything which happened on earth is predestined and is written and preserved in Tablet in the Book of Allah and that is very easy for Allah Subhanahu wa Taala. All these afflictions and crisis and pandemic we suffer, this only re-enforces our belief and trust in Allah, in the Creator, in the Sustainer of the world. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala said that don’t you see that Allah has put at your service all the things which are in Heaven and Earth. Don’t you see the whole Universe is serving the humanity on turns turning towards Allah Subhanahu wa Taala and all good or bad experiences if you have, they all makers return to Allah Subhanahu wa Taala. And whatever is afflicted on earth it is just to give us the taste of some results of some of our actions and one has to repent as Allah Subhanahu wa Taala says men and women, believers and non-believers - all are put through trials and tribulations for them to pay heed to and ponder on this situations around us. Only the Jannah the final abode on the Day of Judgement will be the place where there are no worries, no hardships, anything to worry and there not to be afraid as Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has written. As it is also informed this in the Qur’an Allah Subhanahu wa Taala said do try with good and bad times and it is re-enforced and reasserted in the Qur’an that after every hardship there is ease, indeed after every hardship there is ease. In another place also Allah said that after hardship there is ease. Allah wants to facilitate for you, make it easy for you, He does not want to put you under stress.

Our Shariah has given enough guidance how to do on this earth in terms of economics, financial activities earning the livelihood, doing businesses and doing hard work to sustain life. And Allah has given all good guidance about fulfilling the promises; about fulfilling the covenants and settling dues and debts and everything which we agree upon in our day to day life, in our livelihood and business transactions. And in terms of expenditure and earnings, apart from earning, Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has also guided us the middle path in expenditures - Allah has warned us – don’t take each other’s properties illegitimate means. And all Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has ordered us to keep record of all the transactions and remake witnesses and fulfil your covenants and promises. Islam prescribed guidance/directives The blessed teachings of Islam have prescribed a number of guidance/directives to ease those outcomes; for instance, Allah has prescribed directives in dealing with adversaries of an economic and financial nature so as to bring a dignified livelihood for people at large. Islamic teachings encourage earnings for more productivity for work and support commerce. According to Islamic teachings trade is permissible – they only prohibit things such as usury, deception and dishonesty in transactions. Islamic teachings prescribe public and private property to protect it that agreements to be honoured and the stipulated terms to be fulfilled.

Commercial Islamic teachings give order for commercial cooperation and exchange. They prescribe settling debts as well as documenting liabilities and obligations. They warned extravagant. They obligate giving charity to the needy and they encourage charity during times of adversity and stress. Allah, the Most Exalted, has said people of Iman you must fulfil all your obligations and responsibilities toward others. Trade Allah further said there is no extravagant and misery when you spend; rather they are moderate between these two extremes. Allah also said Allah has permitted trade and forbidden usury. Allah the Most Exalted has further said people of Imaan you must not take property of others or you have no right to do so. However, you may take or use a property of others when there is trade between mutual consent. Allah further said about selling and buying. It is recommended to have witnesses so as to preclude possibility of any mischief or dispute happenings. Allah has also said you must be fair when buying or selling, by giving others the full measure and weight which they are entitled. In addition Allah has said about Jannah, it has been prepared for the people of Taqwa. Among their priorities, they care both during prosperity and hardships. Communities Islam has also prescribed directives for protecting communities as well as resolving social and psychological issues. Islam teachings prescribed upholding ties of kinship and raising children properly. They foster harmony, togetherness and social solidarity. They gave each spouse right; they must be fulfilled by the other and they protect the rights of any human being, was it man, woman, child, elderly, young able-bodied or one special needs. Islam teachings promote giving consideration to the feelings of others; supporting them during their time of hardships, observing same conduct and using wholesome words while speaking. . Parents Islam encourages the promotion of love, harmony and cooperation among people. Allah, the Most Exalted, said Allah Alone has commanded all of you to worship none besides Him and HE has commanded each of you to treat both of your parents well. If one with you or both of your parents reached old age, you must not let either of them hear slightest word – woh – which expresses irritation in any way and not treat either of them harshly; rather be gentleman speak to both of them kindly and honourably; remain humble out of your compassion towards both of them and say: Allah bring mercy to both of my parents, since they mercifully and patiently brought raising me when I was young and weak. Husband-Wife relationship Even husband and wife relationship has been ordered to be based on love, kindness and the fulfilment of their rights. Allah said: ensure that your life with your wife is based on kindness, love and fulfilment of their rights. If you dislike something about them for any mundane reason you must bear them patiently because it may well be that you may dislike something when in fact Allah brings about much goodness about it. Uphold Justice Allah also said indeed Allah commands all of you to uphold justice, worship with best way and deal with the services in the best manner and give relatives what are due to them. HE also forbids you from lousy senses and transgression. He admonishes you and reminds you of the consequences so that you would be mindful of HIS Directives. In addition, Allah said fulfil the rights of relatives by treating them well and upholding the ties of kinship, give to the needy and wayfarers and travellers. Do not spend your wealth extravagantly or use anything which is tantamount to disobeying Allah. Osama bin Sharif, may Allah be pleased on him, said: I witness The Messenger of Allah peace and blessings be upon him, giving sermon to the Farewell Hajj where he was saying give to your mother, to your father, to your sister, to your brother and then those who are next to nearness to you. Other issues for which Islam prescribed various directives include those pertaining to governance and security. Islam prescribed measures which ensure safety and stability of people and their lands and which enable people to perform all of their tasks and duties. Islam Prohibits Spreading Corruption anywhere Islam teachings protect people’s rights, preserve their life and safeguard their properties. They prohibit transgression against others who are sending arms to them. They also prohibit people instigating problem, supplying terrorism and spreading corruption anywhere in the world. They encourage staying clear any path leading to strife. Islam enjoins justice bringing about greatest overall good and achieving accord between people and tried for rectification. Allah the Most Exalted said adhere to the Qur’an and the Sunnah and you must not divide amongst yourselves. Allah also said those who have Iman and do not mix their Iman with the injustice or worshipping others besides Allah, they are the ones who are soundly guided. Allah also said indeed, Allah commanded you to fulfil all the trust, giving them to those who deserve them and to be fair with when you judge between people. Allah Hears all and Sees all. O People of Iman, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those on authority among you. If you have a dispute about something, refer back to Allah and the Messenger if you truly have iman in Allah and the Last Day. Seeking solution is better than disputing or acting based on other opinion and it will produce best outcome. Allah further said don’t be unjust towards others concerning their belongings and do not cause corruption upon the earth after it is set on order; abiding this order is best for you if you accept the Truth from Allah. You must not sit along every path threatening people, hindering people who believe in Allah; following His path and seeking to make Allah’s path appropriate. Reconcile fighting between two groups Allah further said if fighting ever takes place between two groups among the people of iman then you are to reconcile between those two groups. Allah also said people of iman are to be nothing besides brothers to each other. In addition, The Prophet peace be upon him said during his Farewell Hajj – blood, property and honour are certainly the most inviolable to one another, just as the inviolability of the days of yours, the month of yours and the lands of yours. After I have gone, you must not go back rejecting Islam once again striking next to each other. Obey the authority Islamic teachings instructed to obey the authority when he said to worship your Lord, pray your five daily prayers, fast in the month of Ramadan and obey the leaders when he gives you instructions. If you do those things you would be admitted to Jannah which Allah has prepared. In addition to the proceedings, there are directives of Islam prescribing measures. Islamic teachings seek to ensure peoples health and physical well being and that include directives to maintain cleanliness of oneself and to keep the environment clean. Protect communities against epidemic Islamic directives permit wholesome food and prohibit harmful ones. In addition, Islamic teachings prescribe measures to protect communities against spread of epidemics. Allah the Most Exalted said people of Iman when you want to perform prayers but you are in a state of impurity, you must perform wadu by washing your faces, washing your forearms up to and including elbows, passing your hands over your head and washing your feet up to and including your angles. If you are in a state of major impurity, you must first perform ghasl by washing your body entirety. Allah further said purify your garments. Allah also told Prophet Ibrahim has said when I am ill it is Allah who cures me. Allah described Prophet Muhammad saying he will permit wholesome things for them and prohibit them from all that is detestable. Furthermore, the Prophet, May Allah grant recommendations and protections, said, servants of Allah seek cure from illness, since there is no illness which are not curable. Furthermore, the Prophet, Sallallahu wa Sallam, also said: free from a person of leprosy as you are free from a lion as well as do not put one who is ill with one who is healthy. The Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam further said: if there is a pandemic in any land, then if you are inside in don’t go out of it and if you are outside of it, then don’t go inside.” Based on this Hadith which prohibits travelling from one occasion to another during when there is highly contagious diseases spreading the decision was made by the King of Saudi Arabia to limit the number of people perform Hajj this year and only have it consists of individuals from nationality who are already within the nation’s borders. This allows Hajj still to perform was taking all necessary measures for protecting peoples health and maintaining social distancing. Precaution has been put in place to protect life against damage that the pandemic can cause and also safeguarding human life by Allah’s permission. Deep gratitude is also extended to all Muslims for their positive response to comply with the nation’s precaution regulation that is implemented in Makkah and Madinah to protect peoples from the potential effects of the current pandemic. We pray that Allah rewards the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman ibn Abdulaziz as well as his Crown Prince Mohamed ibn Salman and all the individuals of the nation’s leadership under their leadership and guidance, Allah continuing pardoning, continuing forgiving and the Almighty who overpowers all else. He decrees events of many types so that the righteous may be distinguished from the impious. He bestows much goodness and innumerable blessings upon His servants though there may be some occasions when difficulties occur based on Allah’s wisdom and in order to bring about major advantages to people. I testify that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah. HE is completely Unique. HE regulates all matters that occur throughout every night and day. I further testify that Muhammad is Allah’s worshipping servant and chosen Messenger. The Lord of all Creation described him as the Mercy for Mankind and indeed has come as a Messenger amongst yourselves. He is concerned about you and he is kind and merciful to the people of Iman, those who believe and perform rightful deeds. May Allah bestow His blessing to His Messenger as well as to His Messenger’s family, his righteous companions and his followers who set the greatest of precedents and extended goodness and spreading the truth. Dear Muslims I remind all of you as well as myself to observe Taqwa of Allah and fulfilment of His Commands and avoiding His Prohibitions. Observing Taqwa is the instruction that Allah has given to all former and later generations. Allah was perfect in every ways said We most certainly commanded to people of Scriptures prior to you as well as you yourselves. So observer Taqwa of Allah. Ackwledgement: [Courtesy: Manarat al-Haramain, Government of Saudi Arabia And Islam Channel UK]

Arafat Sermon from Masjid al-Nimrah

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Arafat Sermon of 1441 Hijri Hajj Arafat Sermon From Masjid al-Nimrah in Arafat During Covid-19 Dr Mozammel Haque The followings are the summarized Arafat Sermon – Khutbah delivered from the Masjid al-Nimrah, Arafah, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah – Arafah Day. The Arafah Sermon was delivered by Sheikh Muhammad ibn Hassan Ali-Sheikh, Member of the Council of Senior Scholars and Head of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Complex for Hadiths. Summarized Khutbah at Arafah Only Worship Allah Subhanahu wa Taala. There is no one worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger. Our Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu wa Sallam said he is the seal of the Prophets. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam conveyed the message of Allah. He affirmed the message with other Prophets’ of God. Perfection of Deen On the Arafah Day Allah Subhanahu wa Taala made the announcement of the Perfection of your Deen and showed all His best favours on you. And this Perfection of Deen is to worship only Allah Subhanahu wa Taala and Allah only. This is the Deen of five pillars. The five pillars of Islam comprise: correct beliefs about Allah, His Angels, His Books and His Messengers and the Last Day as well as the correct belief about Allah’s preordainment, its results are perceived to be good or bad. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala said to mankind that We have sent among you a Messenger who is of your own. He read the Qur’an, reciting to you our evidences, purifying you and teaching you the Qur’an and the Sunnah and teaching you what you have no knowledge of. Therefore, make mention of Me, if you do so I will make mention of you; be grateful to Me and do not be ungrateful of My favours. Perseverance through hardships Therefore, O Believers, seek help from Allah Subhanahu wa Taala by way of patience, perseverance and prayers. Allah is certainly with those who patiently persevere. Thus, after that, Allah Subhanahu wa Taala mentioned the blessings of sending His Messenger. Allah instructed us to mention Him, be grateful to Him and persevere for Him. Another component of Taqwa is persevering through difficulties one faces which may cause him pain. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala said that those who remains patience, remains steadfast at the time of extreme poverty and illnesses, people who have these qualities they are the ones who have been true to Allah and they are the ones who observe Taqwa. Allah will test with fear, hunger My dear audience, life in this world does not free of difficulty. And this is why Allah Subhanahu wa Taala instructed us to persevere and We shall certainly test you with instances of fear and hunger as well as loss of wealth, lives and fruits. However, Messenger of Allah, you are to convey glad tidings to those who patiently persevere they are the people who, when afflicted with adversaries. “say, “We all most certainly belong to Allah alone and to Him alone we will all most certainly return.” They are the ones whom their Lord will commend and grant mercy, and they are the ones who are soundly guided. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala also said, as for those who persevere, we shall most certainly reward them according to the best deeds they had performed. Allah’s Preordainment and Decree How could a servant of Allah not persevere if he has sound belief about Allah’s preordainment and decree? He unwaveringly believes that anything which befell him would not have missed him; in that even if everyone throughout the entire Earth gather together to avert what Allah decreed to happen to him, they would remain unable. As it has been explained in the Qur’an that anything which happened on earth is predestined and is written and preserved in Tablet in the Book of Allah and that is very easy for Allah Subhanahu wa Taala. All these afflictions and crisis and pandemic we suffer, this only re-enforces our belief and trust in Allah, in the Creator, in the Sustainer of the world. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala said that don’t you see that Allah has put at your service all the things which are in Heaven and Earth. Don’t you see the whole Universe is serving the humanity on turns turning towards Allah Subhanahu wa Taala and all good or bad experiences if you have, they all makers return to Allah Subhanahu wa Taala. And whatever is afflicted on earth it is just to give us the taste of some results of some of our actions and one has to repent as Allah Subhanahu wa Taala says men and women, believers and non-believers - all are put through trials and tribulations for them to pay heed to and ponder on this situations around us. Only the Jannah the final abode on the Day of Judgement will be the place where there are no worries, no hardships, anything to worry and there not to be afraid as Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has written. As it is also informed this in the Qur’an Allah Subhanahu wa Taala said do try with good and bad times and it is re-enforced and reasserted in the Qur’an that after every hardship there is ease, indeed after every hardship there is ease. In another place also Allah said that after hardship there is ease. Allah wants to facilitate for you, make it easy for you, He does not want to put you under stress. Our Shariah has given enough guidance how to do on this earth in terms of economics, financial activities earning the livelihood, doing businesses and doing hard work to sustain life. And Allah has given all good guidance about fulfilling the promises; about fulfilling the covenants and settling dues and debts and everything which we agree upon in our day to day life, in our livelihood and business transactions. And in terms of expenditure and earnings, apart from earning, Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has also guided us the middle path in expenditures - Allah has warned us – don’t take each other’s properties illegitimate means. And all Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has ordered us to keep record of all the transactions and remake witnesses and fulfil your covenants and promises. Islam prescribed guidance/directives The blessed teachings of Islam have prescribed a number of guidance/directives to ease those outcomes; for instance, Allah has prescribed directives in dealing with adversaries of an economic and financial nature so as to bring a dignified livelihood for people at large. Islamic teachings encourage earnings for more productivity for work and support commerce. According to Islamic teachings trade is permissible – they only prohibit things such as usury, deception and dishonesty in transactions. Islamic teachings prescribe public and private property to protect it that agreements to be honoured and the stipulated terms to be fulfilled. Commercial Islamic teachings give order for commercial cooperation and exchange. They prescribe settling debts as well as documenting liabilities and obligations. They warned extravagant. They obligate giving charity to the needy and they encourage charity during times of adversity and stress. Allah, the Most Exalted, has said people of Iman you must fulfil all your obligations and responsibilities toward others. Trade Allah further said there is no extravagant and misery when you spend; rather they are moderate between these two extremes. Allah also said Allah has permitted trade and forbidden usury. Allah the Most Exalted has further said people of Imaan you must not take property of others or you have no right to do so. However, you may take or use a property of others when there is trade between mutual consent. Allah further said about selling and buying. It is recommended to have witnesses so as to preclude possibility of any mischief or dispute happenings. Allah has also said you must be fair when buying or selling, by giving others the full measure and weight which they are entitled. In addition Allah has said about Jannah, it has been prepared for the people of Taqwa. Among their priorities, they care both during prosperity and hardships. Communities Islam has also prescribed directives for protecting communities as well as resolving social and psychological issues. Islam teachings prescribed upholding ties of kinship and raising children properly. They foster harmony, togetherness and social solidarity. They gave each spouse right; they must be fulfilled by the other and they protect the rights of any human being, was it man, woman, child, elderly, young able-bodied or one special needs. Islam teachings promote giving consideration to the feelings of others; supporting them during their time of hardships, observing same conduct and using wholesome words while speaking. . Parents Islam encourages the promotion of love, harmony and cooperation among people. Allah, the Most Exalted, said Allah Alone has commanded all of you to worship none besides Him and HE has commanded each of you to treat both of your parents well. If one with you or both of your parents reached old age, you must not let either of them hear slightest word – woh – which expresses irritation in any way and not treat either of them harshly; rather be gentleman speak to both of them kindly and honourably; remain humble out of your compassion towards both of them and say: Allah bring mercy to both of my parents, since they mercifully and patiently brought raising me when I was young and weak. Husband-Wife relationship Even husband and wife relationship has been ordered to be based on love, kindness and the fulfilment of their rights. Allah said: ensure that your life with your wife is based on kindness, love and fulfilment of their rights. If you dislike something about them for any mundane reason you must bear them patiently because it may well be that you may dislike something when in fact Allah brings about much goodness about it. Uphold Justice Allah also said indeed Allah commands all of you to uphold justice, worship with best way and deal with the services in the best manner and give relatives what are due to them. HE also forbids you from lousy senses and transgression. He admonishes you and reminds you of the consequences so that you would be mindful of HIS Directives. In addition, Allah said fulfil the rights of relatives by treating them well and upholding the ties of kinship, give to the needy and wayfarers and travellers. Do not spend your wealth extravagantly or use anything which is tantamount to disobeying Allah. Osama bin Sharif, may Allah be pleased on him, said: I witness The Messenger of Allah peace and blessings be upon him, giving sermon to the Farewell Hajj where he was saying give to your mother, to your father, to your sister, to your brother and then those who are next to nearness to you. Other issues for which Islam prescribed various directives include those pertaining to governance and security. Islam prescribed measures which ensure safety and stability of people and their lands and which enable people to perform all of their tasks and duties. Islam Prohibits Spreading Corruption anywhere Islam teachings protect people’s rights, preserve their life and safeguard their properties. They prohibit transgression against others who are sending arms to them. They also prohibit people instigating problem, supplying terrorism and spreading corruption anywhere in the world. They encourage staying clear any path leading to strife. Islam enjoins justice bringing about greatest overall good and achieving accord between people and tried for rectification. Allah the Most Exalted said adhere to the Qur’an and the Sunnah and you must not divide amongst yourselves. Allah also said those who have Iman and do not mix their Iman with the injustice or worshipping others besides Allah, they are the ones who are soundly guided. Allah also said indeed, Allah commanded you to fulfil all the trust, giving them to those who deserve them and to be fair with when you judge between people. Allah Hears all and Sees all. O People of Iman, obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those on authority among you. If you have a dispute about something, refer back to Allah and the Messenger if you truly have iman in Allah and the Last Day. Seeking solution is better than disputing or acting based on other opinion and it will produce best outcome. Allah further said don’t be unjust towards others concerning their belongings and do not cause corruption upon the earth after it is set on order; abiding this order is best for you if you accept the Truth from Allah. You must not sit along every path threatening people, hindering people who believe in Allah; following His path and seeking to make Allah’s path appropriate. Reconcile fighting between two groups Allah further said if fighting ever takes place between two groups among the people of iman then you are to reconcile between those two groups. Allah also said people of iman are to be nothing besides brothers to each other. In addition, The Prophet peace be upon him said during his Farewell Hajj – blood, property and honour are certainly the most inviolable to one another, just as the inviolability of the days of yours, the month of yours and the lands of yours. After I have gone, you must not go back rejecting Islam once again striking next to each other. Obey the authority Islamic teachings instructed to obey the authority when he said to worship your Lord, pray your five daily prayers, fast in the month of Ramadan and obey the leaders when he gives you instructions. If you do those things you would be admitted to Jannah which Allah has prepared. In addition to the proceedings, there are directives of Islam prescribing measures. Islamic teachings seek to ensure peoples health and physical well being and that include directives to maintain cleanliness of oneself and to keep the environment clean. Protect communities against epidemic Islamic directives permit wholesome food and prohibit harmful ones. In addition, Islamic teachings prescribe measures to protect communities against spread of epidemics. Allah the Most Exalted said people of Iman when you want to perform prayers but you are in a state of impurity, you must perform wadu by washing your faces, washing your forearms up to and including elbows, passing your hands over your head and washing your feet up to and including your angles. If you are in a state of major impurity, you must first perform ghasl by washing your body entirety. Allah further said purify your garments. Allah also told Prophet Ibrahim has said when I am ill it is Allah who cures me. Allah described Prophet Muhammad saying he will permit wholesome things for them and prohibit them from all that is detestable. Furthermore, the Prophet, May Allah grant recommendations and protections, said, servants of Allah seek cure from illness, since there is no illness which are not curable. Furthermore, the Prophet, Sallallahu wa Sallam, also said: free from a person of leprosy as you are free from a lion as well as do not put one who is ill with one who is healthy. The Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam further said: if there is a pandemic in any land, then if you are inside in don’t go out of it and if you are outside of it, then don’t go inside.” Based on this Hadith which prohibits travelling from one occasion to another during when there is highly contagious diseases spreading the decision was made by the King of Saudi Arabia to limit the number of people perform Hajj this year and only have it consists of individuals from nationality who are already within the nation’s borders. This allows Hajj still to perform was taking all necessary measures for protecting peoples health and maintaining social distancing. Precaution has been put in place to protect life against damage that the pandemic can cause and also safeguarding human life by Allah’s permission. Deep gratitude is also extended to all Muslims for their positive response to comply with the nation’s precaution regulation that is implemented in Makkah and Madinah to protect peoples from the potential effects of the current pandemic. We pray that Allah rewards the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman ibn Abdulaziz as well as his Crown Prince Mohamed ibn Salman and all the individuals of the nation’s leadership under their leadership and guidance, Allah continuing pardoning, continuing forgiving and the Almighty who overpowers all else. He decrees events of many types so that the righteous may be distinguished from the impious. He bestows much goodness and innumerable blessings upon His servants though there may be some occasions when difficulties occur based on Allah’s wisdom and in order to bring about major advantages to people. I testify that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah. HE is completely Unique. HE regulates all matters that occur throughout every night and day. I further testify that Muhammad is Allah’s worshipping servant and chosen Messenger. The Lord of all Creation described him as the Mercy for Mankind and indeed has come as a Messenger amongst yourselves. He is concerned about you and he is kind and merciful to the people of Iman, those who believe and perform rightful deeds. May Allah bestow His blessing to His Messenger as well as to His Messenger’s family, his righteous companions and his followers who set the greatest of precedents and extended goodness and spreading the truth. Dear Muslims I remind all of you as well as myself to observe Taqwa of Allah and fulfilment of His Commands and avoiding His Prohibitions. Observing Taqwa is the instruction that Allah has given to all former and later generations. Allah was perfect in every ways said We most certainly commanded to people of Scriptures prior to you as well as you yourselves. So observer Taqwa of Allah. Ackwledgement: [Courtesy: Manarat al-Haramain, Government of Saudi Arabia And Islam Channel UK]

The First Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah

The Importance and Significance of the First Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah

 Dr. Mozammel Haque

Every year Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has given hundreds and thousands of rewards or the door of blessings and rewards open for HIS slaves and worshippers – especially on two occasions – the last ten days of Ramadan along with the blessed Night of Power (Lailatul Qadr) immediately followed by a happy day for the worshippers – Eid-ul-Fitr. Similarly, instead of last ten days, this time the first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah is the blessed days – full of blessings and rewards from Allah Subhanahu wa Taala along with Arafah Day (9th of Dhul Hijjah) followed by a happy day – Eid-ul-Adha.

                                  

Eid-ul-Adha is always followed after the Arafah day, the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. This year the first day of the month of Dhul Hijjah starts from Wednesday, the 22nd of July, 2020. The High Judiciary Council of Saudi Arabia announced Eid-ul-Adha on Friday, the 31st of July 2020. Ist of Dhul Hijjah, 22nd of July 2020; 9th of Dhul Hijjah (the Arafah Day) on 30th of July, 2020 and 10th of Dhul Hijjah (Eid-ul-Adha) on 31st of July 2020. The first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah is very important, precious and rewarding. According to Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days (Bukhari). The people asked: “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?” He said, “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah; Except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing.” (Bukhari). 

So what can we do in the best 10 days of the year? Fast on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah. Increase in the praise and glorification of Allah The Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam said: “..so during this time recite a great deal of Tahlil (La Ilaha Illa Allah) (Ahmad), Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) and Tahmid (Alhamdu Lillah) (Ahmad) Fasting specifically on the day of Arafah. These ten days include Yawm Arafah (The Day of Arafah). The fasting on this day will expiate for the sins of two years. (Muslim) Abu Qatada Al-Ansari RA narrated “The Messenger of Allah peace be upon him was asked about fasting on the day of Arafah (9th of Dhul Hijjah). (Muslim) He replied: “Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for the preceding year and the following year.” Offer a sacrifice. The Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu wa Sallam.” said: When you see the new moon of Dhul Hijjah, if any of you wants to offer a sacrifice, then he should stop cutting hair and nails until he has offered his sacrifice . (Muslim) Give charity even if it’s a little bit each day since good deeds on these ten days are more beloved to Allah. 

For my readers, I have summarized briefly the Khutbah of the Haramain – Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi – delivered on last Friday, the 3rd of Dhul Hijjah, 22nd of July 2020 and telecast by Islam Channel UK (Courtsey Islam Channel UK) 

Friday Khutbah from Masjid al-Haram on 3rd of Dhul Hijjah 

By Imam Sheikh Dr. Maher Al-Muaiqly 

While speaking on Hajj, Imam Sheikh Dr Maher said, “Let us contemplate on Hajj. Hajj is one of the important pillars of Islam. It is very important in the life of Muslims who can afford to travel to Hajj; but because of the pandemic and health and other considerations Hajj has been limited this year. The utmost priority of religion is to provide safety for the human being for health and peacefulness. So we are thankful to the Government of Saudi Arabia for whatever guidelines they have issued to perform Hajj this year. Those who are allowed to do Hajj this year, may Allah Subhanahu wa Taala give them reward and they will perform the Hajj. Those who intended to come for Hajj they could not come because of the pandemic external reasons, external factors; May Allah Subhanahu wa Taala reward them – full reward for all their intentions.”

                                                

Speaking on the day of Arafah, Imam Sheikh Dr Maher mentioned, “On the day of Arafah, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah when we fast our Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam has given us a glad tiding. He said, this fast on the Arafah day will wipe out sins of two years – the past year and the future year. So during these ten days of Dhul Hijjah Muslims can virtually enjoy an excellent reward of normal activities like Zikr Allah, Taqbeer, Tahlil, Tasweeh and Sadaqah and all the good deeds. For this they have acquired very very high rewards than anything else – even Jihad is not regarded highest deed in these ten days. 

The Imam continued, “So let us pause for those who cannot perform Hajj this year intend to do and looking forward to do Hajj and other Islamic pillars. There are other activities even normal activities become very very highly rewardable during these ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam said, “No action has higher reward than these ten days – good deeds – even Jihad. Jihad except if somebody has gone for Jihad himself and with mal and they sacrifice everything for the sake of Allah Subhanahu wa Taala. Apart from that the normal activities of Zikr Allah, Taqbeer, Tahlil, Tasweeh, Sadaqah and fasting becomes highly rewarded during these ten days.” 

While concluding his Khutbah, Imam Sheikh Dr. Maher said, “Let us go into these activities. Let us send peace and blessings to Prophet Muhammad. O Allah send peace and blessings on Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings on Ibrahim alais salam, O Allah send peace and blessings to all Khulafah-e-Rashideen…..” 

Friday Khutbah at Masjid al-Nabawi on 3rd of Dhul-Hijjah 

By Shaikh Abdul Muhsin Al-Qasim 

The imam of Masjid al-Nabawi Shaikh Abdul Muhsin Al-Qasim started with sending peace and blessings on Prophet Muhammad Sallallau wa Sallam. And then said, “I bear witness no one is worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad Sallallahu wa Sallam is His Last Messenger. O Muslims, religion of Islam is a great religion and its basis is to acquire all the goodness and dispel all the dangerous or displeasable things. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has blessed this country with Haramain – the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah.” 

Speaking on Hajj, the Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin said, “The month of Dhul Hijjah has special rewards attached to it. In his Farewell Hajj Sermon, Prophet Muhammad Sallallhu wa Sallam has declared that the time has been reset like Allah Subhanahu wa Taala did the day He created this Heaven and Earth. All the confusion about calendars should be shaded and now it is the month of Dhul Hijjah. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam urged that we should be thankful to Allah and we should exploit whatever we have got – our youth before old age; our health before we get sick; and our life before we Are dead and our prosperity before we become poor.” 

                                                    

Imam Shaikh Dr Abdul Muhsin said, “Allah says I swear by the dawn and the ten nights and these ten nights, according to most of the Mufassirin of the Qur’an, is that these are the ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Our Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam has been reported to say that the best days of the world are the ten days of Hajj. Normal actions such as prayer, Sadaqah and Zikr Allah, and fasting acquire extraordinary rewards, may be on these ten days even outside activities becomes less important. Our Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam has been reported by Abdullah ibn Abbas said that good actions during these ten days have extraordinary rewards than in any other days eeven Jihad during these ten days have inferior rewards except someone who has lost his position, that means he has obtained sahadah, during these ten days . Allah Subhanahu wa Taala likes to repeat Takbeer, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar la illaha illaha and subhanallah and many other. 

Speaking about the good deeds, Imam Dr Al-Qasim mentioned, “Sahabah, the companions of the Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam used to mark these days by indulging themselves in good deeds of Zikr Allah, fasting, Sadaqah and Takbeerat, Zikr Allah, the mention of Allah’s name and this is the purpose of Hajj even. And these ten days if you mention and glorified the name of Allah Subhanahu wa Taala this is more liked than any other good deed. These ten days are the cup of the lists of good deeds and the people who explained the Hadiths like Imam Nabawi who says that doing Zikr Allah and the normal Ibadat becomes extraordinary rewards and the 9th of Dhul Hijjah is the best of them.” 

The Imam Shaikh Dr Abdul Muhsin also spoke about repeating Takbeerat. He said, “And the best thing we can do is reciting the Qur’an and all the other times repeat Takbeer – Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar La Ilaha Illalla Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar wa Lillahil Hamd. Sahabah used to do it during these days in public places and roads and in other gatherings in Masjid and outside Masjid. And generally, we also practice nowadays that from 9th till the Asr of the 13th we do Takbeer at the end of each prayer. So before these days from 1st of Dhul Hijjah you can still do in our personal life and in our private life.” 

Imam Shaikh Dr Abdul Muhsin also mentioned about Taubah repentence. He said, “Apart from the recitation of the Qur’an, Zikr Allah, we should do the Taubah, repentence and regret for all our wrong doings and misdeeds and seek forgiveness from Allah Subhanahu wa Taala . Allah urges in the Qur’an that all Muslims repent to Allah Subhanahu wa Taala and our Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam used to seek forgiveness from Allah Subhanahu wa Taala  at least 100 times every day. Ashtaqfirullah Ashtaqfirullah at least 100 times every day. Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu wa Sallam has been reported to say that the best day of someone is the day when someone repentence like Ubayy ibn Ka'b was given this is the best day that you have been given the acceptance of your Taubah.” 

Imam Shaikh Dr al-Qasim also mentioned, “The importance of these ten days are – because the highest pillar of Islam – Hajj - is during these ten days. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala says those who can afford and those who can come to Hajj, they are obliged to do that. And on the day of Arafah Allah frees greatest number of people from the fire of Jahannum. “10th of Dhul Hijjaj – Qurbani day - is the best day to do many multiple activities locally and Hajj time and globally as a Qurbani. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam has said that the cup of these ten days is the 10 Dhul Hijjah – Eid day and do Qurbani and the next day the people will be moving after Hajj.” 

Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin also mentioned about the Mina days. He said, “During the Mina days 10,11 and 12 Dhul Hijjah Zikr Allah, Takbeer, Tahlil and the Tasbeeh are the highest rewarding activities but these days fasting is prohibited and these are the feasting days from Allah Subhanahu waTaala. It is a global invitation for feasting during 10, 11, 12 and 13 of Dhul Hijjah. And during these 10 to 13 days rhe best thing one can do is to do Qurbani sacrifice animals by buying the best animals they can do and this is the best rewardable activity and there are no other activity which can supersede the sacrifice and Qurbani because Allah Subhanahu wa Taala says Allah does not get from you any flesh or blood or meat. What reaches Allah Allah Subhanahu wa Taala or what is acceptable is this devotion of your hearts, the intentions and your Taqwa, your piety towards Allah Subhanahu wa Taala and your devotion. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam used to choose his Qurbani among the best of Qurbanis one can do.” 

While concluding his Khutbah, Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin made dua, supplication and salam. He said, “During these ten special days of Dhul Hijjah, whenever we are indulging to mention the name of Allah, May Allah Subhanahu wa Taala accept our Zikr, accept our deeds and rewards us abundantly.”

The Importance of the First Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah By Dr Mozammel Haque

The Importance and Significance of the First Ten days of Dhul Hijjah Dr. Mozammel Haque Every year Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has given hundreds and thousands of rewards or the door of blessings and rewards open for HIS slaves and worshippers – especially on two occasions – the last ten days of Ramadan along with the blessed Night of Power (Lailatul Qadr) immediately followed by a happy day for the worshippers – Eid-ul-Fitr. Similarly, instead of last ten days, this time the first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah is the blessed days – full of blessings and rewards from Allah Subhanahu wa Taala along with Arafah Day (9th of Dhul Hijjah) followed by a happy day – Eid-ul-Adha. Eid-ul-Adha is always followed after the Arafah day, the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. This year the first day of the month of Dhul Hijjah starts from Wednesday, the 22nd of July, 2020. The High Judiciary Council of Saudi Arabia announced Eid-ul-Adha on Friday, the 31st of July 2020. Ist of Dhul Hijjah, 22nd of July 2020; 9th of Dhul Hijjah (the Arafah Day) on 30th of July, 2020 and 10th of Dhul Hijjah (Eid-ul-Adha) on 31st of July 2020. The first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah is very important, precious and rewarding. According to Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days (Bukhari). The people asked: “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?” He said, “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah; Except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing.” (Bukhari). So what can we do in the best 10 days of the year? Fast on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah. Increase in the praise and glorification of Allah The Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam said: “..so during this time recite a great deal of Tahlil (La Ilaha Illa Allah) (Ahmad), Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) and Tahmid (Alhamdu Lillah) (Ahmad) Fasting specifically on the day of Arafah. These ten days include Yawm Arafah (The Day of Arafah). The fasting on this day will expiate for the sins of two years. (Muslim) Abu Qatada Al-Ansari RA narrated “The Messenger of Allah peace be upon him was asked about fasting on the day of Arafah (9th of Dhul Hijjah). (Muslim) He replied: “Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for the preceding year and the following year.” Offer a sacrifice. The Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu wa Sallam.” said: When you see the new moon of Dhul Hijjah, if any of you wants to offer a sacrifice, then he should stop cutting hair and nails until he has offered his sacrifice . (Muslim) Give charity even if it’s a little bit each day since good deeds on these ten days are more beloved to Allah. For my readers, I have summarized briefly the Khutbah of the Haramain – Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi – delivered on last Friday, the 3rd of Dhul Hijjah, 22nd of July 2020 and telecast by Islam Channel UK (Courtsey Islam Channel UK) Friday Khutbah from Masjid al-Haram on 3rd of Dhul Hijjah By Imam Sheikh Dr. Maher Al-Muaiqly While speaking on Hajj, Imam Sheikh Dr Maher said, “Let us contemplate on Hajj. Hajj is one of the important pillars of Islam. It is very important in the life of Muslims who can afford to travel to Hajj; but because of the pandemic and health and other considerations Hajj has been limited this year. The utmost priority of religion is to provide safety for the human being for health and peacefulness. So we are thankful to the Government of Saudi Arabia for whatever guidelines they have issued to perform Hajj this year. Those who are allowed to do Hajj this year, may Allah Subhanahu wa Taala give them reward and they will perform the Hajj. Those who intended to come for Hajj they could not come because of the pandemic external reasons, external factors; May Allah Subhanahu wa Taala reward them – full reward for all their intentions.” Speaking on the day of Arafah, Imam Sheikh Dr Maher mentioned, “On the day of Arafah, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah when we fast our Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam has given us a glad tiding. He said, this fast on the Arafah day will wipe out sins of two years – the past year and the future year. So during these ten days of Dhul Hijjah Muslims can virtually enjoy an excellent reward of normal activities like Zikr Allah, Taqbeer, Tahlil, Tasweeh and Sadaqah and all the good deeds. For this they have acquired very very high rewards than anything else – even Jihad is not regarded highest deed in these ten days. The Imam continued, “So let us pause for those who cannot perform Hajj this year intend to do and looking forward to do Hajj and other Islamic pillars. There are other activities even normal activities become very very highly rewardable during these ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam said, “No action has higher reward than these ten days – good deeds – even Jihad. Jihad except if somebody has gone for Jihad himself and with mal and they sacrifice everything for the sake of Allah Subhanahu wa Taala. Apart from that the normal activities of Zikr Allah, Taqbeer, Tahlil, Tasweeh, Sadaqah and fasting becomes highly rewarded during these ten days.” While concluding his Khutbah, Imam Sheikh Dr. Maher said, “Let us go into these activities. Let us send peace and blessings to Prophet Muhammad. O Allah send peace and blessings on Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings on Ibrahim alais salam, O Allah send peace and blessings to all Khulafah-e-Rashideen…..” Friday Khutbah at Masjid al-Nabawi on 3rd of Dhul-Hijjah By Shaikh Abdul Muhsin Al-Qasim The imam of Masjid al-Nabawi Shaikh Abdul Muhsin Al-Qasim stated with sending peace and blessings on Prophet Muhammad Sallallau wa Sallam. And then said, “I bear witness no one is worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad Sallallahu was Sallam is His Last Messenger. O Muslims, religion of Islam is a great religion and its basis is to acquire all the goodness and dispel all the dangerous or displeasable things. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala has blessed this country with Haramain – the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah.” Speaking on Hajj, the Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin said, “The month of Dhul Hijjah has special rewards attached to it. In his Farewell Hajj Sermon, Prophet Muhammad Sallallhu wa Sallam has declared that the time has been reset like Allah Subhanahu wa Taala did the day He created this Heaven and Earth. All the confusion about calendars should be shaded and now it is the month of Dhul Hijjah. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam urged that we should be thankful to Allah and we should exploit whatever we have got – our youth before old age; our health before we get sick; and our life before we Are dead and our prosperity before we become poor.” Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin said, “Allah says I swear by the dawn and the ten nights and these ten nights, according to most of the Mufassirin of the Qur’an, is that these are the ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Our Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam has been reported to say that the best days of the world are the ten days of Hajj. Normal actions such as prayer, Sadaqah and Zikr Allah, and fasting acquire extraordinary rewards, may be on these ten days even outside activities becomes less important. Our Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam has been reported by Abdullah ibn Abbas said that good actions during these ten days have extraordinary rewards than in any other days eeven Jihad during these ten days have inferior rewards except someone who has lost his position, that means he has obtained sahadah, during these ten days . Allah Subhanahu wa Taala likes to repeat Takbeer, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar la illaha illaha and subhanallah and many other. Speaking about the good deeds, Imam Al-Qasim mentioned, “Sahabah, the companions of the Prophet Sallallahu wa Sallam used to mark these days by indulging themselves in good deeds of Zikr Allah, fasting, Sadaqah and Takbeerat, Zikr Allah, the mention of Allah’s name and this is the purpose of Hajj even. And these ten days if you mention and glorified the name of Allah Subhanahu wa Taala this is more liked than any other good deed. These ten days are the cup of the lists of good deeds and the people who explained the Hadiths like Imam Nabawi who says that doing Zikr Allah and the normal Ibadat becomes extraordinary rewards and the 9th of Dhul Hijjah is the best of them.” The Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin also spoke about repeating Takbeerat. He said, “And the best thing we can do is reciting the Qur’an and all the other times repeat Takbeer – Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar La Ilaha Illalla Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar wa Lillahil Hamd. Sahabah used to do it during these days in public places and roads and in other gatherings in Masjid and outside Masjid. And generally, we also practice nowadays that from 9th till the Asr of the 13th we do Takbeer at the end of each prayer. So before these days from 1st of Dhul Hijjah you can still do in our personal life and in our private life.” Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin also mentioned about Taubah repentence. He said, “Apart from the recitation of the Qur’an, Zikr Allah, we should do the Taubah, repentence and regret for all our wrong doings and misdeeds and seek forgiveness from Allah Subhanahu wa Taala . Allah urges in the Qur’an that all Muslims repent to Allah Subhanahu wa Taala and our Prophet sws used to seek forgiveness from Allah swt at least 100 times every day. Ashtaqfirullah Ashtaqfirullah at least 100 times every day. Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu wa Sallam has been reported to say that the best day of someone is the day when someone repentence like Obaid bin Kaab was given this is the best day that you have been given the acceptance of your Taubah.” Imam al-Qasim also mentioned, “The importance of these ten days are – because the highest pillar of Islam – Hajj - is during these ten days. Allah Subhanahu wa Taala says those who can afford and those who can come to Hajj, they are obliged to do that. And on the day of Arafah Allah frees greatest number of people from the fire of Jahannum. “10th of Dhul Hijjaj – Qurbani day - is the best day to do many multiple activities locally and Hajj time and globally as a Qurbani. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam has said that the cup of these ten days is the 10 Dhul Hijjah – Eid day and do Qurbani and the next day the people will be moving after Hajj.” Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin also mentioned about the Mina days. He said, “During the Mina days 10,11 and 12 Dhul Hijjah Zikr Allah, Takbeer, Tahlil and the Tasbeeh are the highest rewarding activities but these days fasting is prohibited and these are the feasting days from Allah Subhanahu waTaala. It is a global invitation for feasting during 10, 11, 12 and 13 of Dhul Hijjah. And during these 10 to 13 days rhe best thing one can do is to do Qurbani sacrifice animals by buying the best animals they can do and this is the best rewardable activity and there are no other activity which can supersece the sacrifice and Qurbani because Allah Subhanahu wa Taala says Allah does not get from you any flesh or blood or meat. What reaches Allah Allah Subhanahu wa Taala or what is acceptable is this devotion of your hearts, the intentions and your Taqwa, your piety towards Allah Subhanahu wa Taala and your devotion. Rasullullah Sallallahu wa Sallam used to choose his Qurbani among the best of Qurbanis one can do.” While concluding his Khutbah, Imam Shaikh Abdul Muhsin made dua, supplication and salam. He said, “During these ten special days of Dhul Hijjah, whenever we are indulging to mention the name of Allah, May Allah Subhanahu wa Taala accept our Zikr, accept our deeds and rewards us abundantly.”

Brutal Oppression of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang

Systematic Oppression of Uyghur 

Muslims in Xinjiang 

Dr. Mozammel Haque

Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP for Chingford and Woodford Green raised an urgent quest in the House of Commons on 29 June 2020 asking the government to make a statement on the mistreatment by the Chinese Government of Uyghurs in Xinjiang province.

The Minister for Asia Nigel Adams in reply to that said, “We are aware of reports issued today by the Associated Press and the Jamestown Foundation alleging that the Chinese Government are using pregnancy checks and forced intra-uterine devices, sterilisation and abortion to minimise Uyghur birth rates. These reports add to our concern about the human rights situation in Xinjiang and of course we will be considering the report carefully.”

Systematic restrictions on Uyghur 
Culture and the practice of Islam

The Minister for Asia (Nigel Adams)

He also spoke about the broader human rights situation in Xinjiang is of ongoing and serious concern to the Government. The Minister mentioned, “This includes the extrajudicial detention of over a million Uyghur Muslims and other minorities in political re-education camps, systematic restrictions on Uyghur culture and the practice of Islam, and extensive and invasive surveillance targeting minorities. Further reports indicating that forced labour is being used and that children are being forcibly separated from their parents add to the growing body of evidence about the disturbing situation that Uyghurs and other minorities are facing in Xinjiang.

The Minister also mentioned, “The Foreign Secretary raised them directly with his Chinese counterpart, Foreign Minister and State Councillor Wang Yi in March. I also raised the situation in Xinjiang with the Chinese ambassador to London in March. Since 2018, we have played a leading role in raising these concerns at the UN. For example, at the UN Third Committee in October, the UK read out a statement on behalf of 22 other countries drawing attention to the human rights violations and abuses in Xinjiang and calling on China to uphold its obligations to respect human rights. We have consistently raised the issue at the UN Human Rights Council, including at the most recent session in March, when Lord Ahmad, the Minister for human rights, raised the issue in the UK’s opening address.”

“In addition, we advise all businesses involved in investing in Xinjiang or with parts of their supply chains in Xinjiang to consider conducting appropriate due diligence to satisfy themselves that their activities do not support, or risk being seen to support, any human rights violations or abuses. The UK will continue to exercise leadership on this important issue, raising it directly with the Chinese Government and working with partners to do so at the UN,” he added..

Mass Sterilisation of women

Sir Iain Duncan Smith

Sir Duncan Smith mentioned about a recently published research by Professor Adrian Zenz. He said, “The Inter-parliamentary Alliance on China—IPAC—which is made up of 30 other lawmakers from 16 global legislatures, has today published research by Professor Adrian Zenz, the world’s leading expert on the treatment of minorities in Xinjiang province. The report shows that birth rates in the two mostly Uyghur regions plummeted by more than 60% from 2015 to 2018. Across the Xinjiang region, birth rates fell nearly 24% in a single year, compared with just 4.2% nationwide. Worse, it is now clear that this is a direct result of Government actions. Unearthed Government documents mandate that birth control violations that come about “due to the influence of extreme religious thinking”​ should be “dealt with severely”, and that those unable to pay fines should be “dealt with through coercive measures”, including internment.”

“Mr Zenz’s paper concludes that these measures are part of a state-wide crackdown that includes the mass sterilisation of women. This report corroborates the many horrific personal testimonies that many of us have heard. The genocide convention maintains that birth prevention targeted at minority groups is indicative of genocide, and the convention binds individual states to act, not just to rely on the international judicial system. Does my hon. Friend therefore agree that the Uyghur people have been, and are, the victims of mass atrocity crimes?” he said.

Sir Duncan Smith asked the “Foreign Secretary to go to the UN and call for an independent inquiry, but, sadly, I also recognise that the ways to deal with this through the UN will almost certainly be blocked by China. Given that likelihood, will my hon. Friend at least get the UK to make its own legal determination after weighing up this new evidence? Of course the world wants to deal with China, but we cannot continue with business as usual while this sort of blatant activity continues. Furthermore, given the Chinese Government’s appalling record on human rights, their attack on freedoms in Hong Kong, their bullying behaviour in border disputes from the South China seas to India, their blatant breaching of the rules-based order governing the free market and their delayed declaration on covid-19, will the Government now initiate an internal review of the UK’s dependence on China, with a view to significantly reducing that dependence, and call on the free world to come together to ensure that this growing threat from China is dealt with together before, as history teaches us, it is too late?”

Nigel Adams

The Minister for Asia replied, “As I said in my opening statement, these reports add to our concern about the situation in Xinjiang, and we will of course consider them extremely carefully. Any legal determination would be a matter for a competent court. I reiterate that we have raised concerns about the situation in Xinjiang at the UN General Assembly Third Committee and UN Human Rights Council, alongside our international partners. We will continue to make our concerns known directly to China and bilaterally, as well as through the relevant bodies.”

He also mentioned, “On a full Government review, our approach to China remains clear-eyed and is rooted in our values and interests. It has always been the case that when we have concerns we raise them, and that where we need to intervene we will. We have consistently led international efforts to highlight concern about the worsening human rights situation in Xinjiang, and I assure my right hon. Friend that the United Kingdom will continue to do so.”

Uyghurs incarcerated in re-education camps

Stephen Kinnock (Aberavon) (Lab)

Labour Party MP for Aberavon, Stephen Kinnock said, “The Chinese Communist party’s brutal campaign of oppression against the Uyghur people is a scar on the conscience of the world. The Labour party stands with the people of China, including the Uyghur people in Xinjiang, and we condemn any actions by the CCP that infringe their human rights. We know that 1.5 million Uyghurs are incarcerated in re-education camps and subjected to ideological indoctrination courses, where they must learn Mandarin Chinese, recite laws banning unapproved religious practices and sing songs praising the Chinese ​Communist party, and we know that beatings and solitary confinement are routinely used to punish those who fail to comply.”

MP Kinnock also mentioned, “The accounts that have emerged today about the CCP’s draconian measures to suppress birth rates are utterly horrific—women subjected to forced IUD insertions, pregnancy prevention injections, sterilisation. The CCP appears to be engaged in what some experts are calling a campaign of demographic genocide. Will the Minister therefore confirm that the Government will call for an impartial international investigation into what is happening in Xinjiang? Will he confirm that the imposition of measures intended to prevent births within an ethnic or religious group is expressly forbidden under article II(d) of the UN convention on genocide? Will he confirm that any country that is a contracting party to the UN convention on genocide may call upon the UN to take appropriate action under articles IV, V and VI of the convention, and that the UK Government will therefore now make the necessary representations?”

He asked, “Does the Minister recognise that the CCP’s actions in Xinjiang reflect a wider pattern of behaviour of increasingly authoritarian policies at home and aggressive expansionism abroad, including in Hong Kong, Ladakh and the South China sea? Will he set out how the Government intend to defend human rights and the rule of law? Will the Government now engage proactively with the European Union, the US and Governments in the Asia-Pacific region who share our democratic values to lead the international response in building consensus against the CCP’s increasingly belligerent behaviour towards its own people?”

Nigel Adams

Nigel Adams replied, “We have played a leading role in raising these concerns bilaterally and at the United Nations.”

He also mentioned, “We have concerns about the detention and human rights abuses, with more than a million Uyghur Muslims and other minorities detained in political re-education camps—some people may refer to them as other things—and we deplore the systematic restrictions on their culture and practice of Islam, alongside the targeted surveillance of minorities.”

He also said, “On 10 March, at the 43rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, we raised our concerns specifically about the violations and with regard to forced labour in Xinjiang, under our item 4 statement. On 9 March, the Foreign Secretary raised the same concerns about Xinjiang with his Chinese counterpart. As I said in my statement, I have spoken directly to the Chinese ambassador to raise our concerns about human rights in Xinjiang. On 25 February, at the 43rd session of the UN Human Rights Council, the Minister responsible for human rights, Lord Ahmad, directly raised his concerns about Xinjiang during his opening address at the conference. We call on China to allow the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights unfettered access to the region.”

Alicia Kearns (Rutland and Melton) (Con) [V]

Conservative MP for Rutland and Melton, Alicia Kearns said, “Forced sterilisation of women; children ripped from their families; detention centres to treat the so-called pathology of religious and cultural beliefs; forced labour; rape, and DNA databases. In our history, we have learned that we ​must all take a stand against systematic and industrialised efforts to eradicate religious and ethnic minorities,”

She asked, “will my hon. Friend commit to using Magnitsky-style sanctions to bring to justice Chinese Communist party officials who perpetrate and profit from this cultural genocide of the Uyghur people?”

Nigel Adams

The Minister replied, “My hon. Friend speaks with a great deal of experience in this area. Of course, she will be aware that the Foreign Secretary has committed to making a statement about our sanctions regime. That will be done before the summer recess. We have made clear our deep concern about this report and the human rights situation in Xinjiang. My hon. Friend will forgive me; of course, we will not speculate on who will be sanctioned under the new regime, particularly as the legislation is not yet in force, but she should not have too long to wait.”

Afzal Khan (Manchester, Gorton) (Lab) [V]

Labour MP for Manchester, Gorton, Afzal Khan, said, “It is clear that the situation in Xinjiang has deteriorated over the past years. The systematic oppression of a whole ethnic minority group, who are physically abused and psychologically indoctrinated, must be condemned. I am certain that this pandemic has only worsened the conditions ​in the internment camps and has created a double emergency for the Uyghur community. Will the Minister condemn the persecution of Uyghur Muslims to the fullest? Has he considered using Magnitsky powers for personal sanctions?

Nigel Adams

The Minister replied, “I refer him to the answer I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Rutland and Melton (Alicia Kearns) on Magnitsky-style sanctions. The legislation will be cleared before the summer, so I am afraid the hon. Gentleman will have to wait a little longer in that regard. However, I can assure him how seriously the United Kingdom takes these human rights violations and abuses in Xinjiang—demonstrated not least by the statement at the UN Third Committee in October drawing attention to these violations, which was signed by 22 international partners. We will continue to call on China—we do so from here today—to uphold its obligations to respect human rights.”

Ms Lyn Brown (West Ham) (Lab) [V]

Labour Party MP for West Ham, Ms Lyn Brown, said, “The Uyghurs have been systematically persecuted for decades. Concentration camps have been built for millions and we now have clear evidence that the Uyghur population is being reduced through the forced sterilisation of women: so many early warning signs of genocide.”

She said, “I do not want to use any company that enables that and I would support any public body that felt exactly the same, but the Government intend to ban public bodies from expressing their condemnation through boycotts. Will they now reconsider?”

Nigel Adams

The Minister answered, “Our experience is that political freedom and the rule of law are vital underpinnings for long-running prosperity and stability, and that by having a strong relationship with China, we can have open and sometimes difficult discussions on a range of issues, including human rights. We have had very open and difficult discussions directly with our counterparts in China.”

Yasmin Qureshi (Bolton South East) (Lab) [V]

Labour MP for Bolton South East, Yasmin Qureshi, said, “I declare an interest as the chair of the all-party group on the Uyghurs. This new evidence shows that the Chinese state regularly subjects Uyghur women—hundreds of thousands of women—to pregnancy checks, forced sterilisation and even abortion. Some 25 years ago, we watched as the genocide took place in Bosnia and in 2017 we saw that of the Rohingya in Myanmar, and now it is the Uyghurs in China.”

She said, “It is about time that our Government—our Prime Minister—went to the United Nations and asked for a resolution from the Assembly to establish an independent investigation into the situation in Xinjiang region.”

Nigel Adams

The Minister Nigel Adams replied, “I thank the hon. Lady, the chair of the APPG on this matter, but she will be aware—I have referred to it several times during my answers today—that we have been leading on this at the United Nations. There is an issue with these resolutions being blocked, as she will be aware, but I think the United Kingdom can in some ways proudly declare that we have been on the front foot in ensuring that these human rights violations receive international attention, and the joint statement with 22 other countries was testament to that.”

​

Tracy Brabin (Batley and Spen) (Lab/Co-op)

Tracy Brabin MP said, "The condemnation of the demographic genocide is widespread, but the only reason we are debating this today is the bravery of those Uyghur Muslim women who spoke to journalists about their horrific experiences. So while I, of course, press the Minister for more information about the representations he is making to the UN to get investigators into those communities to find out exactly what is going on, I also ask this: what is being done to ensure that those women who shone a light on this abuse are being protected and will not pay the ultimate price for telling the truth about this horrific genocide?"

Nigel Adams

The Minister for Asia Nigel Adams replied, "At the risk of repeating myself, let me say that we have raised this issue several times at the UN and bilaterally with China. This report, which we have seen in the past 24 hours, adds considerably to our serious concerns about what is going on in Xinjiang. It is incredibly difficult to get access, and she will be aware that the lack of NGO presence and our inability to provide support, through whichever Government Department, affects that direct contact with the Uyghur women. It is heartbreaking to read that report, which contains incredibly personal tales—we have all seen that in the past few hours—and it adds to our concerns about what is going on in Xinjiang."

Chi Onwurah (Newcastle upon Tyne Central) (Lab)

Labour MP for Newcastle upon Tyne Central, Chi Onwurah, said, “The Uyghurs are singled out because they are Muslim, so their treatment reflects global Islamophobia as well as Chinese racism. The terrible persecution they suffer is often facilitated by technology, with local companies developing facial recognition and other surveillance technologies that they will then try to sell to us. The Minister talks vaguely about encouraging due diligence, but what will he do to enforce the elimination of human rights abuses from the technology supply chain?”

Nigel Adams

The Minister for Asia replied, “The hon. Lady speaks with great knowledge of the sector. She must be aware that we have made it absolutely clear to any British firm wishing to do business in that particular region that they must they apply due diligence—it is essential that they do so. We will continue to press UK firms in that regard, because it is the right thing to do.”

Saqib Bhatti (Meriden) (Con)

Conservative MP for Meriden, Saqib Bhatti, said, "Time and again, we hear reports of torture, rape, concentration camps, systematic brainwashing, forced sterilisation and now forced labour ​camps that feed into our global supply chain. The Chinese, of course, deny all those reports. Will my hon. Friend call for an international delegation to visit Xinjiang, so that we can find out the truth? Does he agree that global brands which may have these forced labour camps in their supply chain need to look long and hard at how and where they source their materials?"

Nigel Adams

The Minister Nigel Adams replied, "Yes, they absolutely have to look long and hard at their supply chains, for the reasons that I have given during this session. As I said, we have raised these concerns, and the report we have seen in the last 24 hours adds fuel to our serious concerns about human rights violations in Xinjiang."