This ring, found at a Viking burial site in Birka, Sweden, holds great historical significance as it suggests direct connections between the Vikings and the Abbasid Caliphate around 1,200 years ago. Made from a silver alloy and decorated with a colored soda-lime glass stone, the ring now resides at the Swedish History Museum in Stockholm.
Discovered in a 9th-century woman's grave during the Viking Age, the ring is unusual due to its unique features. It has an inscribed violet stone in Arabic Kufic script that translates to "For/to Allah". It's believed that the ring saw little use, possibly passing from the maker straight to the Birka woman, with only a few owners in between.
As the only ring with an Arabic inscription found at a Scandinavian archaeological site, it's a truly unique artifact among Viking Age discoveries in Sweden. It provides solid proof of interactions between Viking Age Scandinavia and the Islamic world.
"Why do we need to fear Allah, if He is All-Merciful?"
A sincere student posed this question one day to a wise Sufi.
"See that pot boiling over the fire 🔥. Touch it!" the Sufi suggested.
The student hesitated 😲, fear stopping him from possible harm.
The Sufi smiled understandingly. "You held back because of the potential burn, not the fire itself."
"We appreciate the fire because it gives us:
• Warmth
• Light
• And cooks our meals.
Yet, your respect for its power, your fear, saves you from harm."
Drawing a spiritual parallel, he continued, "Taqwa (fear of God) operates in a similar way.
It is acknowledging God's:
• Divine rule
• Omnipotence
• Wisdom.
Fearing God doesn't undermine His Love and Mercy towards us...
... We fear because it guards us from harm, from the missteps we might make."
"Have taqwa (reverential fear) of Allah in order that you might succeed" (Quran 3:200)
What does Kiswah mean?
In Islamic terminology, Kiswah refers to the black cloth that covers the Kaaba, the sacred building located in the middle of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is a significant part of Islamic tradition and plays an essential role in the pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj.
The Kiswah is a long, wide piece of silk fabric embroidered with verses from the Quran and decorated with golden thread. It is made up of several black curtains that are stitched together and draped over the Kaaba each year, during the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, which is the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar and when the Hajj takes place.
The process of making the Kiswah is a special ceremony that has been followed for centuries. It is traditionally created by skilled artisans in Saudi Arabia. The fabric is usually provided by the government, and the embroidery work is done by hand with intricate designs and calligraphy using gold and silver threads.
Once the Kiswah is completed, it is placed on the Kaaba on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, which corresponds to the day of Arafah during Hajj. The old Kiswah is then removed, cut into small pieces, and often distributed among Muslims as a blessed souvenir.
The Kiswah is a symbol of the sanctity and reverence associated with the Kaaba and acts as a reminder of the unity of the Muslim Ummah (community). Its black color signifies simplicity, modesty, and humility.
It is important to note that the Kiswah is a physical object and should not be worshipped or considered divine in any way. The true significance lies in the Kaaba itself, as it is considered the holiest site in Islam and the direction towards which Muslims pray during their daily prayers (Salah).
What does the word Caliphate mean?
The word "Caliphate" comes from the Arabic term "khilafah," which means "succession" or "to succeed." In the context of Islam, a Caliphate refers to the political and religious leadership of the Muslim community, known as the Ummah. The Caliphate represents the succession of leadership after the death of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and it is based on the concept of a successor or representative of the Prophet.
The Caliphate is considered to be a system of governance in which the Caliph, as the leader, is responsible for upholding and implementing the principles of Islam, maintaining justice, and protecting the rights and welfare of the Muslim community. The Caliph acts as both a political and spiritual leader, ensuring the preservation and propagation of Islamic values and principles.
Throughout history, various Caliphates emerged and played significant roles in shaping the Islamic world. The most notable Caliphates include the Rashidun Caliphate, the Umayyad Caliphate, the Abbasid Caliphate, and the Ottoman Caliphate. However, it is important to note that the concept of the Caliphate and its implementation has evolved and varied throughout history, with different interpretations and practices in different regions.
Who were the "Rightly Guided" Caliphates?
The "Rightly Guided" Caliphs, also known as the Rashidun Caliphs, were the first four successors of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) after his death. They are:
1. Abu Bakr (632-634): He was the closest companion and father-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). Abu Bakr played a vital role in consolidating the Islamic state after the Prophet's death and leading the Muslim community through various challenges, including the apostasy wars and the defense of Islam against external threats.
2. Umar ibn al-Khattab (634-644): Umar was known for his wisdom, justice, and strong leadership. He expanded the Islamic state significantly, conquering lands such as Egypt, Persia, and Syria. Umar implemented various administrative reforms and established a system of governance based on consultation.
3. Uthman ibn Affan (644-656): Uthman, another son-in-law of the Prophet, is known for his generosity and devotion to Islam. During his reign, the Quran was compiled into a standardized form to preserve its authenticity. However, his administration faced opposition from some quarters which eventually led to his assassination.
4. Ali ibn Abi Talib (656-661): Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), was highly respected for his knowledge, bravery, and piety. However, his caliphate was marked by internal conflicts, most notably the Battle of Siffin and the Battle of Camel. Ali was eventually assassinated in 661.
These four Caliphs are revered by Muslims as righteous leaders in the early days of Islam. They played crucial roles in spreading and consolidating the message of Islam, contributing to the growth of the Muslim Ummah (community). Their leadership is considered an exemplary standard by which subsequent caliphs and rulers are often measured.
Patience is a quality of the heart. The more patient you are, the better the outcome. An effective way to strengthen patience is through the link with your Creator. Don't lose that link. Exercise patience for His sake and He won’t let you down in your darkest moments.
I heard sins are forgiven on the Day of Ashura. is that true?
Yes, it is believed by many Muslims that on the Day of Ashura, sins are forgiven. However, it is important to understand the context and significance of this day.
The Day of Ashura is observed on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram. It holds great historical and religious significance for Muslims. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to fast on this day, even before the obligation of fasting during Ramadan was revealed.
In Islamic tradition, it is narrated that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Fasting on the Day of Ashura, I hope, will expiate for the sins of the previous year" (Sahih Muslim). However, it must be noted that this narration does not imply an automatic forgiveness of all sins. Rather, it suggests that fasting on this day is a means of seeking forgiveness and expiation for one's previous sins.
As Muslims, we believe that true repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah are essential for the forgiveness of sins. Fasting on the Day of Ashura is seen as an act of worship and a way to seek closeness to Allah, which can then lead to the forgiveness of sins.
It is crucial to remember that seeking forgiveness and repentance should be an ongoing practice in the life of a believer and not limited to a particular day or time. While fasting on the Day of Ashura is recommended, it is essential to engage in acts of worship and seek forgiveness throughout the year.
Ultimately, forgiveness depends on sincere repentance, seeking forgiveness from Allah, and striving to avoid committing the same sins again. The Day of Ashura provides an opportunity for increased devotion and seeking Allah's forgiveness, but it does not guarantee automatic forgiveness without sincere repentance.
What's so special about the Day of Ashura?
The Day of Ashura is a significant day for Muslims and holds great importance in Islamic history. It is observed on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram. Here are a few reasons why this day is special:
1. Commemoration of Prophet Musa (Moses): Muslims believe that on this day, Allah (God) rescued Prophet Musa and the Israelites from Pharaoh and his army when they were trapped at the Red Sea. It is a day to reflect upon the miracles and lessons from the life of Prophet Musa.
2. Observance of Fasting: Fasting on the Day of Ashura is highly recommended but not obligatory. Muslims fast on this day to express gratitude to Allah for the victory of Prophet Musa, to seek forgiveness, and to remember the hardships faced by the Prophet and his followers.
3. Martyrdom of Imam Hussain: The Day of Ashura also marks the tragic event of the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This event is deeply mourned by the Shia Muslim community. They remember Imam Hussain's sacrifice and his stand against injustice and tyranny.
4. Reflection on Sacrifice and Patience: The events surrounding Ashura teach Muslims about sacrifice, patience, and standing up for truth and justice. It serves as a reminder to uphold these values in their own lives.
It is important to note that the significance and observance of Ashura may differ among different sects within Islam. While it holds immense importance for Shia Muslims, Sunni Muslims also observe fasting on this day, following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad.
Can u draw a map?
I apologize, but as a text-based AI, I am unable to draw or provide visual content. I can, however, describe the general route taken during the Hijrah.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) started their journey from Makkah, heading in a westerly direction. They then turned north, passing through various regions and crossing the desert. They traveled for several days, taking precautions to avoid detection.
Eventually, they reached the Cave of Thawr, located to the south of Makkah, where they took shelter for three days and nights. After that, they continued their journey towards Madinah, eventually arriving at their destination.
Although I cannot provide a visual map, you may find many resources online or in Islamic literature that depict the general route followed during the Hijrah.
I was wondering if we know the route the prophet took when he migrated to Madinah. Do we know the names of the Sahabah he travelled with? The names of the wells or places he stopped at cause I heard it was all kinda secret cause assasins were tracking him.
The journey of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Makkah to Madinah is known as the Hijrah, and it took place in the year 622 CE. The migration was indeed a critical and crucial event in Islamic history. While the exact route and specific details of the journey may not be documented in great detail, some general information is available.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his close companion Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) set off from Makkah and headed towards Madinah, which was then known as Yathrib. They took a route that led them westward for some distance before turning north. The migration took approximately 10 to 14 days to complete.
To avoid detection by a group of assassins who were tracking them, the Prophet (peace be upon him) and Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) took several precautions. For instance, they did not take the main roads and instead traveled through relatively unknown and less frequented routes. They sought refuge in mountainous areas during the day and continued their journey at night, making it harder for their pursuers to track them.
The names of specific wells or places they stopped at during the journey are not extensively mentioned in historical records. However, there is mention of significant locations such as the Cave of Thawr, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) and Abu Bakr took shelter for three days and nights to evade capture.
It is important to note that the focus of Islamic teachings is on the message and guidance brought by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) rather than the specific details of his journey. The Hijrah is significant primarily because it marked the establishment of the Islamic state in Madinah and set the stage for the spread of Islam.
As Muslims, we can derive numerous lessons from the Hijrah, such as the importance of sacrifice, perseverance, and trust in Allah, even during difficult times.
Tell me more...
Certainly! Hazrat Uthman ibn Affan (may Allah be pleased with him) was born in the year 576 CE in Makkah. He came from a prominent and wealthy family and was known for his generosity. He was also known as Zun-Nurain, meaning "possessing two lights," as he had the honor of marrying two of the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) daughters, Ruqayyah and later, Umm Kulthum (may Allah be pleased with them).
Hazrat Uthman played an essential role in the early days of Islam. He was one of the earliest converts to Islam and faced persecution for his beliefs. He participated in several significant events in Islamic history, including the migration to Madinah (known as Hijrah) and the battles of Badr and Uhud.
After the assassination of the 2nd Khalifa, Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him), a consultation committee, known as the Shura, was formed to select the next Khalifa. The committee chose Hazrat Uthman as the 3rd Khalifa due to his piety, leadership qualities, and close relationship with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
During his caliphate, Hazrat Uthman oversaw the expansion of the Islamic empire. He ordered the compilation of the Quran into a single standardized book and sent copies to various regions of the Muslim world. His reign was marked by stability, economic prosperity, and the spread of Islam through trade and missionary activities.
However, his caliphate also faced internal challenges. Dissatisfaction grew among certain factions regarding administrative policies and alleged favoritism towards his family members. These tensions eventually led to a rebellion and siege of the caliph's residence in Madinah. Despite Hazrat Uthman's attempts at reconciliation, he was martyred in the year 656 CE.
Hazrat Uthman's caliphate is regarded as a significant period of expansion and consolidation of the early Muslim community. He made key contributions to the Islamic governance structure and leadership practices, leaving a lasting impact on the Islamic world. His martyrdom and the events surrounding it had a profound impact on the Muslim community and became a turning point in the history of Islam.
Do travellers have to fast? Like during Ramadan or Ashura?
In Islam, fasting is obligatory for all adult Muslims except for certain groups, including travelers. Islam acknowledges the difficulty of fasting while traveling and allows for exemptions in specific situations.
Regarding fasting during Ramadan, Allah says in the Quran (2:185), "Whoever of you sights the month [of Ramadan], let him fast it." However, the same verse also provides an exception for travelers, stating, "But whoever is ill or on a journey, then [he should fast] a sufficient number of other days." This means that travelers have the option to either fast or make up the missed days later when they are not traveling.
As for Ashura, it is not obligatory to fast on this day, but it is highly recommended. However, if one is traveling and finds it difficult to fast, they have the flexibility to postpone their fast until they reach their destination or when it becomes more convenient for them.
It is worth noting that in both cases, fasting while traveling is considered a recommended act of devotion for those who are capable and find it feasible to do so. However, Islam emphasizes ease and flexibility in matters of worship, especially when it comes to those who are away from their homes and usual routines.
Ultimately, the decision to fast while traveling is a personal one, and individuals should consider their physical well-being and the challenges they may face during their journey. It is advised to consult with a knowledgeable Islamic scholar for individual circumstances and specific guidance.
Is Music Haram in Islam? All music?
In Islam, the permissibility of music is a topic of debate among scholars. Some scholars argue that all forms of music are haram (forbidden) based on certain hadiths (sayings or actions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) and other textual evidences. They argue that music is distracting, promotes immorality, and can lead to sinful behavior.
However, there are other scholars who believe that not all music is haram. They consider the context, content, and effects of the music in determining its permissibility. If the music promotes immoral behavior, obscenity, or includes explicit and sinful content, it would be considered haram. On the other hand, if the music is morally uplifting, educational, and does not incite sinful behavior, it may be considered permissible or even praiseworthy.
It is important to note that the majority of scholars agree that certain instruments, such as those associated with drinking alcohol or those that are specifically designed for sinful activities, are prohibited. Additionally, any music or lyrics that contain disrespect towards Allah, His Messenger, or Islamic values are strictly forbidden.
Ultimately, the decision regarding the permissibility of music may vary depending on the scholar you follow. It is recommended to consult a knowledgeable and trustworthy scholar to understand their view and guidance on this matter.https://youtu.be/318ZDSy3zn4
After patience, great things await.
What does Islam say about liars?
Islam views lying as a serious sin and condemns it. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of truthfulness and warned against falsehood in various hadiths (sayings):
1. "Be truthful, for indeed, truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. And a man continues to be truthful until he is written with Allah as a truthful one." (Sahih Muslim)
2. "Beware of lying, for lying leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to Hellfire. A person keeps lying until they are written with Allah as a liar." (Sahih Muslim)
These hadiths highlight the detrimental consequences of lying, including its potential to lead a person away from righteousness and towards the Hellfire.
In Islam, honesty and integrity are highly valued, and Muslims are encouraged to strive for truthfulness in all aspects of life. Exaggeration, false promises, deceit, and any form of dishonesty are considered sinful.
However, it is important to note that Islam acknowledges the possibility of certain permissible instances where lying may be allowed, such as in cases of saving a life, reconciliation between people, or preserving harmony. These exceptions are limited, exceptional, and subject to strict conditions.
Overall, Islam strongly promotes truthfulness, honesty, and sincerity, while discouraging and condemning lying in all its forms.
What are the pillars of Islam?
The pillars of Islam are the five essential acts of worship that every Muslim is obligated to follow. They are:
1. Shahada (Testimony of Faith): The first pillar is to bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is His final messenger. This declaration shows one's belief and commitment to the Islamic faith.
2. Salah (Prayer): Muslims are required to pray five times a day, facing the Kaaba in Mecca. These prayers, known as Salah, are performed at specific times throughout the day: Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (midday), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (sunset), and Isha (night). Prayer strengthens the bond between a person and Allah, and provides spiritual rejuvenation.
3. Zakat (Charity): Muslims are obliged to give a portion of their wealth to those in need as an act of purification and social duty. This mandatory charity, known as Zakat, is typically 2.5% of the individual's excess wealth accumulated over a year. It aims to assist the less fortunate and promote social justice.
4. Sawm (Fasting): During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn till sunset. This involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs, while focusing on spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and increasing acts of worship. Fasting is a means to attain self-control, empathy for the poor, and to purify oneself physically and spiritually.
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage): Hajj is the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, performed once in a lifetime if physically and financially able. It involves specific rituals and acts of worship at various locations in and around Mecca. Hajj symbolizes unity, equality, and the culmination of faith. It serves as a reminder of the Day of Judgment and the equality of all humanity before Allah.
These five pillars form the foundation of Islamic belief and practice, and adherence to them helps Muslims in establishing a strong connection with Allah and leading a righteous life.
What's Islam's take on Riba?
In Islam, Riba refers to the concept of usury or interest. It is explicitly prohibited in the Quran and Hadith (the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him). The prohibition of Riba is mentioned in several verses of the Quran, including Surah Al-Baqarah (2:275-278) and Surah Al-Imran (3:130).
The Quran describes Riba as an unjust and exploitative practice that leads to economic inequality and social injustice. Islam encourages a fair and just financial system that promotes equality and cooperation among individuals. Instead of seeking profits through lending money, Islam encourages investment in productive and tangible assets.
Islamic finance provides alternative methods for financial transactions that are free from Riba. It promotes principles such as profit-and-loss sharing, partnership-based contracts, and asset-backed transactions. Examples of these financial instruments include Musharakah (partnership), Mudarabah (trust financing), and Murabaha (cost-plus financing).
It is important to note that the prohibition of Riba primarily relates to lending and borrowing money with interest. However, Islam permits trade and business transactions where profit is generated from the selling of goods/services at a higher price than the cost price. This is known as Halal profit and is considered lawful in Islam.
Islamic scholars and financial institutions have worked on providing Sharia-compliant financial products and services that adhere to the principles of Islamic finance, avoiding Riba and promoting ethical financial practices. It is recommended for Muslims to seek such alternatives when conducting financial transactions to align with the teachings of Islam.