Arah Tuju Cinta

Assalamualaikum,

“Dan hendaklah takut (kepada Allah) orang-orang yang sekiranya mereka meninggalkan zuriat yang lemah di belakang mereka yang mereka khuatir terhadap kesejahteraannya. Oleh sebab itu, hendaklah mereka bertakwa kepada Allah, dan hendaklah mereka berbicara dengan tutur kata yang benar.” (An-Nisa’: 9)

Sayang rasanya blog ini untuk ditinggalkan ‘berhabuk’ begini. Ada baiknya untuk kali ini saya kongsi sedikit ilmu yang diperolehi dalam Forum Baitul Muslim bersama panelis hebat Tuan Habiburrahman El-Shirazy (Penulis Novel Best-Seller Ayat-Ayat Cinta dan Ketika Cinta Bertasbih) dan Ustaz Hasrizal Abdul Jamil (Blogger di Saifulislam.com) di Dewan Canselor UTP semalam. Buat pertama kalinya dapat melihat dan mendengar mutiara kata daripada dua orang tokoh hebat ini. Terasa begitu bersyukur diberi peluang untuk bersua dengan dua orang tokoh yang saya kagumi (walaupun saya langsung tidak memiliki buku tulisan Tuan Kang Abik… haha). Dalam post ini, hanya berminat untuk membincangkan 2 isi penting yang diulas dengan begitu indah oleh Kang Abik dan Ustaz Hasrizal.

Visi dan misi

Tuan Kang Abik menekankan untuk membina sebuah baitul muslim yang sejahtera, perkara paling penting yang perlu diambil kira ialah visi dan misi yang sama. Beliau memberi beberapa contoh daripada Al-Quran. Antaranya Nabi Nuh dan isterinya. Seorang begitu taat kepada Allah, manakala seorang lagi kafir. Akhirnya mereka terpisah akibat banjir besar yang melanda. Manakala untuk pasangan Abu Jahal dan Ummu Jamil, mereka mempunyai visi dan misi yang sama dalam menegakkan jahiliyyah dan menentang Islam. Mereka ‘bahagia’ dengan saling mendokong menjatuhkan Rasulullah dan akhirnya sama-sama ke neraka. Contoh yang terbaik pastinya Rasulullah SAW dan isteri-isteri baginda.

Membina rumah tangga bukan sesuatu yang mudah. Ia antara hidup dan mati, ia antara bahagia dan duka, ia antara syurga dan neraka. Perlu hala tuju yang sama. Tiada harmonis andai yang satu mahu ke syurga dan satu mahu ke neraka. Pastinya asas untuk kebersamaan ini adalah taqwa.

Kurangkan mencari, banyakkan ‘menjadi’

Ustaz Hasrizal banyak mengemukakan analogi-analogi menarik yang begitu dekat dengan jiwa kami selaku pelajar bidang teknikal. Antaranya berkenaan konsep kebebasan dalam Islam yang dibandingkan dengan analogi lampu isyarat trafik. Idea Ustaz Hasrizal dilihat mempunyai banyak persamaan dengan idea yang dibawa oleh Stephen R. Covey dalam buku beliau yang begitu terkenal ‘7 Habits of Highly Effective People’. Sudah pasti idea-idea sebegitu lebih mudah untuk dihadam oleh golongan professional yang menjadi sebahagian besar audiens dalam majlis tersebut. Beliau mendedahkan satu fakta bahawa dalam kalangan CEO-CEO berjaya di dunia, hanyalah 30% memiliki kehidupan berkeluarga yang bahagia dan produktif sebagaimana syarikat masing-masing. Lalu persoalannya di mana 70% lagi?

Satu lagi konsep yang sangat menarik yang dibawa ialah kurangkan mencari dan banyakkan ‘menjadi’. Tidak dapat dinafikan lagi. Kita suka memilih-milih. Mahu yang cantik, kaya, solehah dan seumpamanya. Namun kita lupa untuk muhasabah diri sendiri. Siapa kita? Sehebat Muhammadkah tatkala mahu mencari wanita sehebat Khadijah? Setampan Yusufkah tatkala mencari wanita secantik Zulaikha? Benar sekali. Banyakkan berusaha untuk menjadi hebat dahulu daripada berfikir untuk pasangan yang hebat. Tatkala kita hebat, ‘semulajadinya’ yang hebat juga akan tertarik. Bukankah Allah telah berfirman:

“perempuan-perempuan yang jahat adalah untuk lelaki-lelaki yang jahat, dan lelaki-lelaki yang jahat untuk perempuan-perempuan yang jahat dan (sebaliknya) perempuan-perempuan yang baik untuk lelaki-lelaki yang baik dan lelaki-lelaki yang baik untuk perempuan-perempuan yang baik……” (An-Nur: 26)

Itu sahajalah sedikit perkongsian kali ini. Maaf tak dapat meneruskan siri Bas Dua Tingkat.

P/S: Tak perlu terkejar-kejar tapi jangan berlengah-lengah. Jodoh perlu diusahakan walaupun sudah ditakdirkan. Tapi perigi mencari timba pun apa salahnya kan? Jangan terlalu jumud. =)

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The Virtues of Muharram and 'Aashooraa'

Written by

Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid

Praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the Worlds, and peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, the Seal of the Prophets and Chief of the Messengers, and upon all his family and companions.

Allah’s sacred month of Muharram is a blessed and important month. It is the first month of the Hijri calendar and is one of the four sacred months concerning which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Verily, the number of months with Allaah is twelve months (in a year), so it was ordained by Allaah on the Day when He created the heavens and the earth; of them, four are sacred. That is the right religion, so wrong not yourselves therein..." [al-Tawbah 9:36]

Abu Bakrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "The year is twelve months of which four are sacred, the three consecutive months of Dhu’l-Qa’dah, Dhu’l-Hijjah and Muharram, and Rajab Mudar which comes between Jumaada and Sha’baan." [Reported by al-Bukhaari, 2958]

Muharram is so called because it is a sacred (muharram) month and to confirm its sanctity.

Allaah’s words (interpretation of the meaning): "so wrong not yourselves therein..." mean do not wrong yourselves in these sacred months, because sin in these months is worse than in other months.

It was reported that Ibn 'Abbaas said that this phrase (so wrong not yourselves therein...) referred to all the months, then these four were singled out and made sacred, so that sin in these months is more serious and good deeds bring a greater reward.

Qutaadah said concerning this phrase (so wrong not yourselves therein...) that wrongdoing during the sacred months is more serious and more sinful that wrongdoing at any other time. Wrongdoing at any time is a serious matter, but Allaah gives more weight to whichever of His commands He will. Allaah has chosen certain ones of His creation. He has chosen from among the angels Messengers
and from among mankind Messengers. He chose from among speech the remembrance of Him (dhikr). He chose from among the earth the mosques, from among the months Ramadaan and the sacred months, from among the days Friday and from among the nights Laylat al-Qadr, so venerate that which Allaah has told us to venerate. People of understanding and wisdom venerate the things that Allaah has told us to venerate. [Summarized from the Tafseer of Ibn Katheer, may Allaah have mercy on him. Tafseer of Surat al-Tawbah, aayah 36]

The Virtue of observing more naafil fasts during Muharram.

Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: "The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: 'The best of fasting after Ramadaan is fasting Allaah’s month of Muharram.’" [Reported by Muslim, 1982]

The phrase "Allaah’s month", connecting the name of the month to the name of Allaah in a genitive grammatical structure, signifies the importance of the month. Al-Qaari said: "The apparent meaning is all of the month of Muharram." But it was proven that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) never fasted any whole month apart from Ramadan, so this hadeeth is probably meant to encourage increasing one’s fasting during Muharram, without meaning that one should fast for the entire month.

It was reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast more in Sha’baan. It is likely that the virtue of Muharram was not revealed to him until the end of his life, before he was able to fast during this month. [Sharh al-Nawawi 'ala Saheeh Muslim]

Allaah chooses whatever times and places He wills

Al-'Izz ibn 'Abd al-Salaam (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: "Times and places may be given preferred status in two ways, either temporal or religious/spiritual. With regard to the latter, this is because Allaah bestows His generosity on His slaves at those times or in those places, by giving a greater reward for deeds done, such as giving a greater reward for fasting in Ramadaan than for fasting at all other times, and also on the day of 'Aashooraa’, the virtue of which is due to Allaah’s generosity and kindness towards His slaves on that day..." [Qawaa’id al-Ahkaam, 1/38]

'Aashooraa’ in History

Ibn 'Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: "The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came to Madeenah and saw the Jews fasting on the day of 'Aashooraa’. He said, 'What is this?’ They said, 'This is a righteous day, it is the day when Allaah saved the Children of Israel from their enemies, so Moosa fasted on this day.’ He said, 'We have more right to Moosa than you,’ so he fasted on that day and commanded (the Muslims) to fast on that day." [Reported by al-Bukhaari, 1865]

"This is a righteous day" – in a report narrated by Muslim, (the Jews said:) "This is a great day, on which Allaah saved Moosa and his people, and drowned Pharaoh and his people."

"Moosa fasted on this day" – a report narrated by Muslim adds: "... in thanksgiving to Allaah, so we fast on this day."

According to a report narrated by al-Bukhaari: "...so we fast on this day to venerate it."

A version narrated by Imaam Ahmad adds: "This is the day on which the Ark settled on Mount Joodi, so Nooh fasted this day in thanksgiving."

"and commanded (the Muslims) to fast on that day" – according to another report also narrated by al-Bukhaari: "He said to his Companions: 'You have more right to Moosa than they do, so fast on that day."

The practice of fasting on 'Aashooraa’ was known even in the days of Jaahiliyyah, before the Prophet’s mission. It was reported that 'Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: "The people of Jaahiliyyah used to fast on that day..."

Al-Qurtubi said: "Perhaps Quraysh used to fast on that day on the basis of some past law, such as that of Ibraaheem, upon whom be peace."

It was also reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast on 'Aashooraa’ in Makkah, before he migrated to Madeenah. When he migrated to Madeenah, he found the Jews celebrating this day, so he asked them why, and they replied as described in the hadeeth quoted above. He commanded the Muslims to be different from the Jews, who took it as a festival, as was reported in the hadeeth of Abu Moosa (may Allaah be pleased with him), who said:
"The Jews used to take the day of 'Aashooraa’ as a festival. [according to a report narrated by Muslim: the day of 'Aashooraa’ was venerated by the Jews, who took it as a festival. According to another report also narrated by Muslim: the people of Khaybar (the Jews) used to take it as a festival and their women would wear their jewellery and symbols on that day] The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: 'So you (Muslims) should fast on that day.’" [Reported by al-Bukhaari] Apparently the motive for commanding the Muslims to fast on this day was the desire to be different from the Jews, so that the Muslims would fast when the Jews did not, because people do not fast on a day of celebration. [Summarized from the words of al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar – may Allaah have mercy on him – in Fath al-Baari Sharh 'ala Saheeh al-Bukhaari]

Fasting on 'Aashooraa’ was a gradual step in the process of introducing fasting as a prescribed obligation in Islam. Fasting appeared in three forms. When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came to Madeenah, he told the Muslims to fast on three days of every month and on the day of 'Aashooraa’, then Allaah made fasting obligatory when He said (interpretation of the meaning): "... observing the fasting is prescribed for you..." [al-Baqarah 2:183] [Ahkaam al-Qur’aan by al-Jassas, part 1]

The obligation was transferred from the fast of 'Aashooraa’ to the fast of Ramadaan, and this one of the proofs in the field of Usool al-Fiqh that it is possible to abrogate a lighter duty in favour of a heavier duty.

Before the obligation of fasting 'Aashooraa’ was abrogated, fasting on this day was obligatory, as can be seen from the clear command to observe this fast. Then it was further confirmed later on, then reaffirmed by making it a general command addressed to everybody, and once again by instructing mothers not to breastfeed their infants during this fast. It was reported from Ibn Mas’ood that when fasting Ramadaan was made obligatory, the obligation to fast 'Aashooraa’ was lifted, i.e., it was no longer obligatory to fast on this day, but it is still desirable (mustahabb).

The virtues of fasting 'Aashooraa’

Ibn 'Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both) said: "I never saw the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) so keen to fast any day and give it priority over any other than this day, the day of 'Aashooraa’, and this month, meaning Ramadaan." [Reported by al-Bukhaari, 1867]

The meaning of his being keen was that he intended to fast on that day in the hope of earning the reward for doing so.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: "For fasting the day of 'Aashooraa’, I hope that Allaah will accept it as expiation for the year that went before." [Reported by Muslim, 1976] This is from the bounty of Allaah towards us: for fasting one day He gives us expiation for the sins of a whole year. And Allaah is the Owner of Great Bounty.

Which day is 'Aashooraa’?

Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: " 'Aashooraa’ and Taasoo’aa’ are two elongated names (the vowels are elongated) as is stated in books on the Arabic language. Our companions said: 'Aashooraa’ is the tenth day of Muharram and Taasoo’aa’ is the ninth day. This is our opinion, and that of the majority of scholars. This is the apparent meaning of the ahaadeeth and is what we understand from the general wording. It is also what is usually understood by scholars of the language." [al-Majmoo’]

'Aashooraa’ is an Islamic name that was not known at the time of Jaahiliyyah. [Kashshaaf al-Qinaa’, part 2, Sawm Muharram]

Ibn Qudaamah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:

'Aashooraa’ is the tenth day of Muharram. This is the opinion of Sa’eed ibn al-Musayyib and al-Hasan. It was what was reported by Ibn 'Abbaas, who said: 'The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded us to fast 'Aashooraa’, the tenth day of Muharram.’ ]Reported by al-Tirmidhi, who said, a saheeh hasan hadeeth] It was reported that Ibn 'Abbaas said: 'The ninth,’ and reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast the ninth. [Reported by Muslim]. 'Ataa’ reported that he said, 'Fast the ninth and the tenth, and do not be like the Jews.’ If this is understood, we can say on this basis that it is mustahabb (encouraged) to fast on the ninth and the tenth, for that reason. This is what Ahmad said, and it is the opinion of Ishaaq.

It is mustahabb (encouraged) to fast Taasoo’aa’ with 'Aashooraa’

'Abd-Allaah ibn 'Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with them both) said: "When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fasted on 'Aashooraa’ and commanded the Muslims to fast as well, they said, 'O Messenger of Allaah, it is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians.’ The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, 'If I live to see the next year, in sha Allaah, we will fast on the ninth day too.’ But it so happened that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) passed away before the next year came." [Reported by Muslim, 1916]

Al-Shaafa'i and his companions, Ahmad, Ishaaq and others said: "It is mustahabb to fast on both the ninth and tenth days, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) fasted on the tenth, and intended to fast on the ninth."

On this basis it may be said that there are varying degrees of fasting 'Aashooraa’, the least of which is to fast only on the tenth and the best of which is to fast the ninth as well. The more one fasts in Muharram, the better it is.

The reason why it is mustahabb to fast on Taasoo’aa’

Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: "The scholars – our companions and others – mentioned several reasons why it is mustahabb to fast on Taasoo’aa’:
•    the intention behind it is to be different from the Jews, who only venerate the tenth day. This opinion was reported from Ibn 'Abbaas...
•    the intention is to add another day’s fast to 'Aashooraa’. This is akin to the prohibition on fasting a Friday by itself, as was mentioned by al-Khattaabi and others.

"To be on the safe side and make sure that one fasts on the tenth, in case there is some error in sighting the crescent moon at the beginning of Muharram and the ninth is in fact the tenth."

The strongest of these reasons is being different from the People of the Book. Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: "The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) forbade imitating the People of the Book in many ahaadeeth, for example, his words concerning 'Aashooraa’: 'If I live until the next year, I will certainly fast on the ninth day.’" [al-Fataawa al-Kubra, part 6, Sadd al-Dharaa’i’ al-Mufdiyah ila’l-Mahaarim]

Ibn Hajar (may Allaah be pleased with him) said in his commentary on the hadeeth "If I live until the next year, I will certainly fast on the ninth day": "What he meant by fasting on the ninth day was probably not that he would limit himself to that day, but would add it to the tenth, either to be on the safe side or to be different from the Jews and Christians, which is more likely. This is also what we can understand from some of the reports narrated by Muslim." [Fath, 4/245]

Ruling on fasting only on the day of 'Aashooraa’

Shaykh al-Islam said: "Fasting on the day of 'Aashoraa’ is an expiation for a year, and it is not makrooh to fast only that day..." [al-Fataawa al-Kubra, part 5] In Tuhfat al-Muhtaaj by Ibn Hajar al-Haytami, it says: "There is nothing wrong with fasting only on 'Aashooraa’." [part 3, Baab Sawm al-Tatawwu’]

Fasting on 'Aashooraa’ even if it is a Saturday or a Friday

Al-Tahhaawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: "The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) allowed us to fast on 'Aashooraa’ and urged us to do so. He did not say that if it falls on a Saturday we should not fast. This is evidence that all days of the week are included in this. In our view – and Allaah knows best – it could be the case that even if this is true (that it is not allowed to fast on Saturdays), it is so that we do not venerate this day and refrain from food, drink and intercourse, as the Jews do. As for the one who fasts on a Saturday without intending to venerate it, and does not do so because the Jews regard it as blessed, then this is not makrooh..." [Mushkil al-Aathaar, part 2, Baab Sawm Yawm al-Sabt]

The author of al-Minhaaj said: "It is disliked (makrooh) to fast on a Friday alone..." But it is no longer makrooh if you add another day to it, as mentioned in the saheeh report to that effect. A person may fast on a Friday if it coincides with his habitual fast, or he is fasting in fulfilment of a vow, or he is making up an obligatory fast that he has missed, as was stated in a saheeh report.

Al-Shaarih said in Tuhfat al-Muhtaaj:

"If it coincides with his habitual fast" – i.e., such as if he fasts alternate days, and a day that he fasts happens to be a Friday.

"If he is fasting in fulfilment of a vow, etc." – this also applies to fasting on days prescribed in sharee’ah, such as 'Aashooraa’ or 'Arafaah. [Tuhfat al-Muhtaaj, part 3, Baab Sawm al-Tatawwu’]
Al-Bahooti (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: "It is makrooh to deliberately single out a Saturday for fasting, because of the hadeeth of 'Abd-Allaah ibn Bishr, who reported from his sister: 'Do not fast on Saturdays except in the case of obligatory fasts’ [Reported by Ahmad with a jayyid isnaad and by al-Haakim, who said: according to the conditions of al-Bukhaari], and because it is a day that is venerated by the Jews, so singling it out for fasting means being like them... except when a Friday or Saturday coincides with a day when Muslims habitually fast, such as when it coincides with the day of 'Arafaah or the day of 'Aashooraa’, and a person has the habit of fasting on these days, in which case it is not makrooh, because a person’s habit carries some weight." [Kashshaaf al-Qinaa’, part 2, Baab Sawm al-Tatawwu’]

What should be done if there is confusion about the beginning of the month?

Ahmad said: "If there is confusion about the beginning of the month, one should fast for three days, to be sure of fasting on the ninth and tenth days." [al-Mughni by Ibn Qudaamah, part 3 – al-Siyaam – Siyaam 'Aashooraa’]

If a person does not know when Muharram began, and he wants to be sure of fasting on the tenth, he should assume that Dhoo’l-Hijjah was thirty days – as is the usual rule – and should fast on the ninth and tenth. Whoever wants to be sure of fasting the ninth as well should fast the eight, ninth and tenth (then if Dhoo’l-Hijjah was twenty-nine days, he can be sure of having fasted Taasoo’aa’ and 'Aashooraa’).

But given that fasting on 'Aashooraa’ is mustahabb rather than waajib, people are not commanded to look for the crescent of the new moon of Muharram as they are to do in the case of Ramadaan and Shawwaal.

Fasting 'Aashooraa’ – for what does it offer expiation?

Imaam al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:

"It expiates for all minor sins, i.e., it brings forgiveness of all sins except major sins."

Then he said (may Allaah have mercy on him):

"Fasting the day of 'Arafaah expiates for two years, and the day of 'Aashooraa’ expiates for one year. If when a person says 'Aameen’ it coincides with the 'Aameen’ of the angels, he will be forgiven all his previous sins... Each one of the things that we have mentioned will bring expiation. If there are minor sins for which expiation is needed, expiation for them will be accepted; if there are no minor sins or major sins, good deeds will be added to his account and he will be raised in status... If he had committed major sins but no minor sins, we hope that his major sins will be reduced." [al-Majmoo’ Sharh al-Muhadhdhab, part 6, Sawm Yawm 'Arafaah]

Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: "Tahaarah, salaah, and fasting in Ramadaan, on the day of 'Arafaah and on 'Aashooraa’ expiate for minor sins only." [al-Fataawa al-Kubra, part 5]

Not relying too much on the reward for fasting

Some people who are deceived rely too much on things like fasting on 'Aashooraa’ or the day of 'Arafaah, to the extent that some of them say, "Fasting on 'Aashooraa’ will expiate for the sins of the whole year, and fasting on the day of 'Arafaah will bring extra rewards."

Ibn al-Qayyim said: This misguided person does not know that fasting in Ramadaan and praying five times a day are much more important than fasting on the day of 'Arafaah and 'Aashooraa’, and that they expiate for the sins between one Ramadaan and the next, or between one Friday and the next, so long as one avoids major sins. But they cannot expiate for minor sins unless one also avoids major sins; when the two things are put together, they have the strength to expiate for minor sins. Among those deceived people may be one who thinks that his good deeds are more than his sins, because he does not pay attention to his bad deeds or check on his sins, but if he does a good deed he remembers it and relies on it. This is like the one who seeks Allaah’s forgiveness with his tongue (i.e., by words only), and glorifies Allaah by saying "Subhaan Allaah" one hundred times a day, then he backbites about the Muslims and slanders their honour, and speaks all day long about things that are not pleasing to Allaah. This person is always thinking about the virtues of his tasbeehaat (saying "Subhaan Allaah") and tahleelaat (saying "Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah") but he pays no attention to what has been reported concerning those who backbite, tell lies and slander others, or commit other sins of the tongue. They are completely deceived. [al-Mawsoo’ah al-Fiqhiyyah, part 31, Ghuroor]

Fasting 'Aashooraa’ when one still has days to make up from Ramadaan

The fuqahaa’ differed concerning the ruling on observing voluntary fasts before a person has made up days that he or she did not fast in Ramadaan. The Hanafis said that it is permissible to observe voluntary fasts before making up days from Ramadaan, and it is not makrooh to do so, because the missed days do not have to be made up straight away. The Maalikis and Shaafa’is said that it is permissible but is makrooh, because it means that one is delaying something obligatory. Al-Dusooqi said: "It is makrooh to observe a voluntary fast when one still has to make up an obligatory fast, such as a fast in fulfilment of a vow, or a missed obligatory fast, or a fast done as an act of expiation (kafaarah), whether the voluntary fast which is being given priority over an obligatory fast is something confirmed in sharee’ah or not, such as 'Aashooraa’ and the ninth of Dhoo’l-Hijjah, according to the most correct opinion." The Hanbalis said that it is haraam to observe a voluntary fast before making up any fasts missed in Ramadaan, and that a voluntary fast in such cases does not count, even if there is plenty of time to make up the obligatory fast. So a person must give priority to the obligatory fasts until he has made them up.. [al-Mawsoo’ah al-Fiqhiyyah, part 28, Sawm al-tatawwu’]

Muslims must hasten to make up any missed fasts after Ramadaan, so that they will be able to fast 'Arafaah and 'Aashooraa’ without any problem. If a person fasts 'Arafaah and 'Aashooraa’ with the intention from the night before of making up for a missed fast, this will be good enough to make up what he has missed, for the bounty of Allaah is great.

Bid’ahs common on 'Aashooraa’

Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allaah have mercy on him) was asked about the things that people do on 'Aashooraa’, such as wearing kohl, taking a bath (ghusl), wearing henna, shaking hands with one another, cooking grains (huboob), showing happiness and so on. Was any of this reported from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in a saheeh hadeeth, or not? If nothing to that effect was reported in a saheeh hadeeth, is doing these things bid’ah, or not? Is there any basis for what the other group do, such as grieving and mourning, going without anything to drink, eulogizing and wailing, reciting in a crazy manner, and rending their garments?

His reply was:

"Praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the Worlds. Nothing to that effect has been reported in any saheeh hadeeth from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) or from his Companions. None of the imaams of the Muslims encouraged or recommended such things, neither the four imaams, nor any others. No reliable scholars have narrated anything like this, neither from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), nor from the Sahaabah, nor from the Taabi’een; neither in any saheeh report or in a da’eef (weak) report; neither in the books of Saheeh, nor in al-Sunan, nor in the Musnads. No hadeeth of this nature was known during the best centuries, but some of the later narrators reported ahaadeeth like the one which says, 'Whoever puts kohl in his eyes on the day of 'Aashooraa’ will not suffer from eye disease in that year, and whoever takes a bath (does ghusl) on the day of 'Aashooraa’ will not get sick in that year,' and so on. They also reported a fabricated hadeeth that is falsely attributed to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), which says, 'Whoever is generous to his family on the day of 'Aashooraa’, Allaah will be generous to him for the rest of the year.' Reporting all of this from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is tantamount to lying."

Then he (Ibn Taymiyah) discussed in brief the tribulations that had occurred in the early days of this ummah and the killing of al-Husayn (may Allaah be pleased with him), and what the various sects had done because of this. Then he said:

"An ignorant, wrongful group – who were either heretics and hypocrites, or misguided and misled – made a show of allegiance to him and the members of his household, so they took the day of 'Aashooraa’ as a day of mourning and wailing, in which they openly displayed the rituals of jaahiliyyah such as slapping their cheeks and rending their garments, grieving in the manner of the jaahiliyyah... The Shaytaan made this attractive to those who are misled, so they took the day of 'Aashooraa’ as an occasion of mourning, when they grieve and wail, recite poems of grief and tell stories filled with lies."

"Whatever truth there may be in these stories serves no purpose other than the renewal of their grief and sectarian feeling, and the stirring up of hatred and hostility among the Muslims, which they do by cursing those who came before them... The evil and harm that they do to the Muslims cannot be enumerated by any man, no matter how eloquent he is. Some others – either Naasibis who oppose and have enmity towards al-Husayn and his family or ignorant people who try to fight evil with evil, corruption with corruption, lies with lies and bid’ah with bid’ah – opposed them by fabricating reports in favour of making the day of 'Aashooraa’ a day of celebration, by wearing kohl and henna, spending money on one's children, cooking special dishes and other things that are done on Eids and special occasions. These people took the day of 'Aashooraa’ as a festival like Eid, whereas the others took it as a day of mourning. Both are wrong, and both go against the Sunnah, even though the other group (those who take it as a day of mourning) are worse in intention and more ignorant and more plainly wrong... Neither the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) nor his successors (the khulafa’ al-raashidoon) did any of these things on the day of 'Aashooraa’, they neither made it a day of mourning nor a day of celebration..."

"As for the other things, such as cooking special dishes with or without grains, or wearing new clothes, or spending money on one’s family, or buying the year’s supplies on that day, or doing special acts of worship such as special prayers or deliberately slaughtering an animal on that day, or saving some of the meat of the sacrifice to cook with grains, or wearing kohl and henna, or taking a bath (ghusl), or shaking hands with one another, or visiting one another, or visiting the mosques and mashhads (shrines) and so on... all of this is reprehensible bid’ah and is wrong. None of it has anything to do with the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) or the way of the Khulafa’ al-Raashidoon. It was not approved of by any of the imaams of the Muslims, not Maalik, not al-Thawri, not al-Layth ibn Sa’d, not Abu Haneefah, not al-Oozaa’i, not al-Shaafa'i, not Ahmad ibn Hanbal, not Ishaaq ibn Raahwayh, not any of the imaams and scholars of the Muslims." [al-Fataawa al-Kubra by Ibn Taymiyah]

Ibn al-Haaj (may Allaah have mercy on him) mentioned that one of the bid’ahs on 'Aashooraa’ was deliberately paying zakaat on this day, late or early, or slaughtering a chicken just for this occasion, or – in the case of women – using henna. [al-Madkhal, part 1, Yawm 'Aashooraa’]

We ask Allaah to make us followers of the Sunnah of His Noble Prophet, to make us live in Islam and die in a state of faith. May He help us to do that which He loves and which pleases Him. We ask Him to help us to remember Him and be thankful to Him, to worship Him properly and to accept our good deeds. May He make us of those who are pious and fear Him. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad and all his family and companions.

source: http://www.a2youth.com/articles/special_months_and_times/the_virtues_of_muharram_and_aashooraa/

Faris Al-Muhandisu: Salam Maal Hijrah

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TEC X for My Semester Break

Assalamualaikum w.b.t.

Well, so many things happened in my life in the past 1430H. I can taste the sweet and sour in enduring this hard and challenging life. Some of the events mark the significant 360 degree turnaround in my life. Obviously, it is when I was appointed as the Project Manager of TEC X (formerly known as TEC 2010.. spot the difference if you can.. haha). People say it is the second biggest event in UTP, I say it is the biggest because of its huge impact to the society.

Now, I’m stuck mentally and physically to it. Everything that whirl in my mind is about TEC X (At least until the new sem begin.. hehe). I need to sacrifice my semester break for TEC X, while it is actually my last semester to have a nice rest for almost a month at home before my internship starts. It means, no more break until I’m graduated from this lovely UTP on December 2011. Never mind, I’m used to it.

Just to explain a little bit on TEC X. It is an annual event of UTP. One of the most-awaited events that is jointly organized by MPPUTP and Student Support Services Department (SSSD). Generally, it is held to expose the real scenario of working life and the challenges, equip graduates with skills and competencies needed for local and international job market and as a medium to engage graduating students as well as the public to main industry players (you can expect companies like PETRONAS, Schlumberger, ExxonMobil, Baker Hughes, SHELL, Talisman and etc.).

2010 marks its 10th anniversary of celebration and with the theme “Decade of Renascence”, we are planning to make a few significant changes. Apart from our Series of Career Talk, Academic Seminar and Workshops, TEC X will be introducing new events such as Technology Conference (TEchno-Con), Career Seed, Management Skill Games and Towards Campus Life. We have also embarked collaboration with Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) apart from our current collaboration with Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). Thus, from latest collaboration, you can expect a lot of new things and heart-thumping surprise in TEC X in line with its theme “Renascence” which means “Awakening”. Well, can’t tell more. If not then there’s no element of suspense there.. haha. So far, we’ve just introduced our new logo but you can expect more tricks under our sleeve.

MPP have entrusted me this post while I’ve never asked for it. To be honest, I accept the appointment reluctantly. Why? Because I’m aware of the burden and I know my capability very well. I’ve never been a project manager before. My life in UTP revolves around protocol and public relationship or better known as CNP. I was doing the same job 7 times both as committee and head of department. Until I was considered as CNP “Hardcore” and only few students in UTP have been acknowledged as one. You can count them by fingers. I wonder if I can be a good leader to my team. But Allah said:

“Allah will never burden any soul beyond his capacity. It gets every good that it earns, and it suffers every ill that it earns…..” (Al-Baqarah: 286)

Alhamdulillah, I feel very grateful to be given a very enthusiastic and aggressive team that complements me. We are still at the early stage but already achieved a few milestones. Hopefully we can maintain the momentum that we have built so far for more challenges ahead. Remember, our dream is high and we are still far from that. Keep on climbing to grab the dream.

Quoted from Hannah Montana The Movie, ‘Life is a climb, but the view is great’.

Allah has stated in holy Quran

“Truly Allah loves those who fight in His Cause in battle array, as if they were a solid cemented structure.” (As-Saff: 4)

Therefore, please correct our intention sincerely for Allah. May Allah assists us in what we are doing.

Prayer to lessen the burden

Translation:

"Our Lord! Condemn us not If we forget or fall Into error; our Lord! Lay not on us a burden Like that which Thou Didst lay on those before us; Our Lord! lay not on us A burden greater than we Have strength to bear. Blot out our sins, And grant us forgiveness. Have mercy on us. Thou art our Protector; Help us against those Who stand against Faith."  (Al-Baqarah: 286)

Faris Al-Muhandisu: At last! update jugak.. hehe

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Saya Bangga Menjadi Anak Malaysia

Siapa kata Bahasa Melayu tidak boleh pergi jauh?

Raymond Crooke, warganegara Britain telah menyanyikan lagu lagenda terkenal di Malaysia iaitu P.Ramlee dan Sudirman. Ini memang membuktikan bahasa dan lagu kita boleh pergi jauh dan diterima oleh orang luar. Ini suatu yang membanggakan.

Berikut adalah sedikit info tentang hasil kerja beliau yang dipetik daripada laman youtube

For my Malaysian friends.

Tan Sri P. Ramlee (1929-73) was a famous Malaysian actor, film director and songwriter. He wrote over 360 songs, most of which were used in his movies.

This song, one of his most popular, is from the 1960 movie, Antara Dua Darjat (The Two Classes).

I found it quite difficult to learn this song, as it is not my usual style, but it was a request, so here it is at last. I hope I've got it right.

The words mean something like this:

The stirring of my soul
Bathes my heart with emotion,
By the arranged notes
Of rhythm and song.
If it is only modest,
It doesn't matter.
Perhaps it could awaken you.
Realise this, good man.

Never will they vanish,
Rhythm and song.
Like blossoms,
They will linger forever.
If you separate
The song and the rhythm,
They'll be weak and soulless
And empty.

Klik di sini untuk melayari laman web beliau

Video ke 2 ini pula adalah 'cubaan' seorang pemuda Romania bergelar Mr. Avamon menyanyikan lagu 'Cuba' oleh Faizal Tahir. Wah! Tak sangka penyanyi yang cukup popular di Malaysia, Indonesia dan Singapura ini juga mempunyai peminat di Romania. Haha.

Saya bangga menjadi Anak Malaysia. Saya juga bangga dengan Bahasa Ibunda saya. Anda bagaimana?


Faris Al-Muhandisu: Credit to SyokBlog. pssst.... Adik Faizal Tahir pun popular jugak!

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Supplications for Depression

In al-Saheehayn it was reported from Ibn 'Abbaas that the Messenger of Allah used to say, when he felt distressed:

"La ilaaha ill-Allaah al-'Azeem ul-Haleem, Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah Rabb il-'arsh il-'azeem, Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah Rabb is-samawaati wa Rabb il-ard wa Rabb il-'arsh il-kareem."

(There is no god except Allah, the All-Mighty, the Forbearing; there is no god except Allah, the Lord of the Mighty Throne; there is no god except Allah, Lord of the heavens, Lord of the earth and Lord of the noble Throne)."

And it was reported from Anas RA that the Prophet S.A.W. used to say, when something upset him:

"Yaa Hayyu yaa Qayyoom, bi Rahmatika astagheeth."

(O Ever-Living One, O Everlasting One, by Your mercy I seek help.)

And it was reported that Asmaa’ bint 'Umays RA said:

The Messenger of Allah said to me: "Shall I not teach you some words to say when you feel distressed?"

"Allaah, Allaah, Rabbee laa ushriku bihi shay’an."

(Allah, Allah, my Lord, I do not associate anything with Him.)

It was reported from 'Abd-Allaah ibn Mas’ood that the Prophet S.A.W. said:

"No person suffers any anxiety or grief, and says:

"'Allaahumma innee 'abduka wa ibn 'abdika wa ibn amatika, naasiyati bi yadika, maadin fiyya hukmuka, 'adlun fiyya qadaa’uka, as’aluka bi kulli ismin huwa laka sammayta bihi nafsaka aw anzaltahu fi kitaabika aw 'allamtahu ahadan min khalqika aw ista’tharta bihi fi 'ilm il-ghaybi 'andak an taj’ala al-Qur’aana rabee’ qalbi wa noor sadri wa jalaa’a huzni wa dhahaaba hammi."

"O Allah, I am Your slave, son of Your slave, son of Your female slave, my forelock is in Your hand, Your command over me is forever executed and Your decree over me is just. I ask You by every Name belonging to You which You named Yourself with, or revealed in Your Book, or You taught to any of Your creation, or You have preserved in the knowledge of the unseen with You, that You make the Qur’aan the life of my heart and the light of my breast, and a departure for my sorrow and a release for my anxiety."

"...but Allah will take away his sorrow and grief, and give him in their stead joy."

[Al-Kalim al-Tayyib by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah, edited by Shaykh al-Albaani, p. 72]

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SPM 2009: Good Luck!

Post-SPM 2006: Interview with reporters from Utusan Malaysia and Berita Harian

Hari ini, 18 November 2009 bermulalah detik yang paling mendebarkan pelajar-pelajar tingkatan 5 di seluruh Malaysia. Peperiksaan SPM, ujian yang menentukan arah tuju masa hadapan kini menjelma. Masih segar di ruang minda satu perasaan yang cukup hangat dan menyesakkan di saat detik itu hampir tiba. Terimbau kembali kenangan zaman persekolahan di Maktab Rendah Sains MARA Pengkalan Chepa (MRSM PC) 3 tahun yang lalu.

Masih ku ingat bagaimana dalam tekanan sebagai seorang ketua pelajar, hari-hari yang dilalui terasa begitu pantas bergerak. Betapa sempit ruang untuk mengulangkaji pelajaran. Kadang-kadang tanggungjawab sebagai pelajar diketepikan begitu sahaja. Pernah ketika di tingkatan 4, ponteng kelas selama hampir 2 minggu, minggu pertama kerana menyertai Tunas Saintis Peringkat Kebangsaan di MRSM Pontian, minggu kedua kerana tugas sebagai ahli jawatankuasa Minggu Bahasa Peringkat Kebangsaan. Namun begitu, alhamdulillah, Allah mengurniakan keputusan yang baik dalam peperiksaan, berjaya mengekalkan PNG 3.5 ke atas. Sungguh benar janji Allah

“Jika kamu menolong agama Allah, aku akan menolong kamu dan meneguhkan kedudukanmu.” (Muhammad: 7)

Bersama Mami n Nipi.. Inspirasiku ketika duka

Di tingkatan 5, keadaan sama berterusan. Dikutuk, dikeji itu perkara biasa sebagai pemimpin pelajar. Biasalah orang melayu. Begitu banyak mulut yang mahu mengkritik (mereka kata berfikir kononnya), namun tidak ramai yang mahu berdiri di belakang pemimpin mereka dan melakukan perubahan bersama. Bila diajak untuk menjalankan sebarang inisiatif kebajikan pelajar, begitu banyak alasan diberi. Senario sama berlaku di mana-mana. Bergantung atas definisi perubahan yang diinginkan. Bagi kami, perubahan yang diinginkan berjaya dicapai atas beberapa indikator yang realistik yang kami tetapkan sendiri. Mungkin pada orang lain tidak, ya terserahlah. Matlamat BWP ketika itu tidaklah terlalu jauh memandangkan keadaan yang agak parah yang dibawa dari generasi terdahulu. Alhamdulillah, sekurang-kurangnya batu asas yang kami letakkan berjaya digarap dengan baik oleh BWP seterusnya dan mereka terus berubah dari generasi ke generasi. Pasti ramai MRSM PC Old Boys terkejut dengan budaya pelajar generasi terbaru ini. Sekurang-kurangnya saya sendiri pun terkejut.

Cabaran demi cabaran mendatang. Ketika SPM masih berbaki sebulan, saya terpaksa berulang-alik ke hospital tatkala sedang menghadapi Percubaan SPM. Ini cabaran yang paling dahsyat pernah dialami setakat ini. Tatkala orang lain sibuk menelaah pelajaran, saya terpaksa berehat. Dalam kelas, saya langsung tidak mampu menumpukan perhatian. Saya percaya tiada dalam kalangan adik-adik mengalami apa yang saya alami. Alhamdulillah, janji Allah itu maha benar. Saya masih berjaya mendapat keputusan terbaik dan ditemu ramah oleh RTM dan beberapa media cetak lain dalam sidang akhbar bersama Pengerusi MARA.

Press Conference with Pengerusi MARA Y. B. Brig. Jen. (B) Dato’ Seri Abdul Hamid bin Hj. Zainal Abidin

Natijah daripada kehidupan di MRSM PC, inilah saya. Maybe people want to argue that they are ‘finished’ because of their life in MRSM PC, well I would say they are the one who ‘surrender themselves to the weather’. This pesimistic view of life will let people down all the time until their death.

Nasihat saya kepada adik-adik yang mengambil SPM tahun ni, termasuklah adik saya sendiri:

1. Tingkatkan kebergantungan kepada Allah.
2. Banyakkan berdoa.
3. Tenangkan fikiran.
4. Minta maaf dengan semua orang terutama guru-guru. Masih ada masa selagi keputusan belum keluar.
5. Pastikan anda dah khatam Al-Quran. Pengalaman saya dengan sahabat-sahabat, menunjukkan ada trend pelajar yang skor masa peperiksaan biasa tapi tak skor masa SPM, kebanyakan daripada mereka tak pernah khatam Al-Quran.
6. Walau apa pun yang berlaku, fikir yang positif sahaja.
7. Tawakal hanya selepas berusaha sepenuh hati.
8. Banyakkan buat latihan soalan-soalan tahun lepas daripada mentelaah. Dalam keadaan genting sebegini, output lebih penting daripada input.
9. Cari ruang yang paling senang untuk fokus. Elakkan belajar di bilik.

Akhir kata, semoga berjaya dalam SPM 2009 insyaAllah. Jika saya mampu, mengapa anda tidak?

"Be a light, not a judge. Be a model, not a critic. Be part of the solution, not part of the problem"

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Vacuum Domain of Truth

“O ye who believe! If a wicked person comes to you with any news, ascertain the truth, lest ye harm people unwittingly, and afterwards become full of repentance for what ye have done.” (Al-Hujurat: 6)

The Allegory of the Cave

In this famous theory written by Plato, he imagines a group of people who have lived chained in a cave all of their lives, facing a blank wall. The people watch shadows projected on the wall by things passing in front of a fire behind them, and begin to ascribe forms to these shadows. According to Plato, the shadows are as close as the prisoners get to seeing reality.

Contact

Contact is the key to effective communication. Contact between various members of a society is essential to build strong feelings of love and commitment. Contact within the same universities, schools, classes, organizations, events and other places where people go about their business enables people to get to know each other better, to understand or share in their ideas, beliefs, sorrows and joys.

“Allah does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who have not fought against you on account of religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equity.” (Al-Mumtahanah: 8)

Contacts do not stop at a superficial limit like simply sharing the same universities or working in the same organizations, but it involves more intimate levels like sharing and emphatizing with others’ problems, concerns, happiness, grief, hopes, expectations and disappointments.

Assumptions

No contact means no effective communication. It obviously results in wrong information. People tend to observe from afar. They are not brave enough to catch the right people for the right and credible information. Consequently, people assume anything that may uphold their stance and assumptions tend to be wrong. Just like what is mentioned by Plato in his popular Allegory of Cave long time ago.

There’s where people build a vacuum domain of truth between them. No one dare to try to break into the domain. It needs a very high pressure, temperature, energy and very sophisticated ‘pump’ before the domain can be break. That is when prejudice and hatred come into play.

Battle of Siffin

There are a lot of examples in the olden days for what we have been discussing right now. Obviously, one of them is Battle of Siffin. It was fought between Ali ibn Abi Talib and Muawiyah I, on the banks of the Euphrates river, in what is now Ar-Raqqah, Syria. Following the controversial murder of Uthman ibn Affan, Ali had become Caliph but struggled to be accepted as such throughout the Muslim Empire.

Muawiyah, the governor of Syria, was a kinsman of the murdered Caliph, and just wanted the murderers brought to justice. He is not a rebellion as his enemy wanted people to see. Ali was in difficult situation since the ummah at that time was in chaos without a leader. Muawiyah considered that Ali was unwilling to do this, and so Muawiyah rebelled against Ali, who attempted to put down the rebellion. The result was the engagement at Siffin. It is so confusing that Ali was in Madinah while Muawiyah is in Damascus. What would you expect for two sides without any proper communication system to make a dialogue to understand each other’s position? This is what I mean as ‘Vacuum Domain of Truth’.

Therefore, it is not fair to other side if we throw a lot of accusations merely based on other’s words which could be slanderous. They may have their own agenda or influenced by their emotions. People with high knowledge and credibility also may do the same mistake. No people are free from their emotion; they may use their knowledge as they like to fulfil their agenda. Who knows? So, the solution is to meet the right people, like in the previous case, Ali, listen with an open heart to their explanation.

I write this just for one reason.

“The Believers are but a single Brotherhood: So make peace and reconciliation between your two (contending) brothers; and fear Allah, that ye may receive Mercy.” (Al-Hujuurat: 10)


Reference:


1. Healing Body and Soul - Amira Ayad

2. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen R. Covey

3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allegory_of_the_Cave

4. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Siffin

5. http://saifulislam.com/?p=5874

6. http://ms.langitilahi.com/perkongsian-baiklah-dengan-semua-orang/#more-1811

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Human Body is the Best Chemical Plant

Brain is the best Controlling system

PID Controller

Lung is the best membrane

Membrane

Heart is the best pump

Gear-Oil Pump

Stomach is the best reactor

Plug-flow Reactor

Nerve is best sensor

D40 Sensor

Muscle is the best actuator

Electric Actuator

Intestine is the best sedimenter

Sedimenter

Blood vessel is the best pipe

Stainless Pipe

Kidney is the best heat exchanger

Plate Heat Exchanger

Indeed, human body is the best and most complex chemical plant!

"This day shall We save thee in the body, that thou mayest be a sign to those who come after thee! but verily, many among mankind are heedless of Our Signs!" (Yunus: 92)

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Buat Muslimah Sejati

"Diantara tanda-tanda kekuasaan Allah ialah Dia menciptakan untukmu isteri-isteri dari jenismu sendiri, supaya kamu cenderung dan merasa tenteram kepadanya, dan dijadikan-Nya di antara kamu rasa kasih dan sayang. (Ar-Rum 21)

Bersabda Rasulullah SAW:
"Sebaik-baik perhiasan di dunia ini adalah wanita yang solehah."

Perempuan yang aku sayangi
Adalah pencinta agama Tuhannya
Yang mengalir rasa cinta.. takut dan harap
Terus menguasai perjalanan kehidupannya
Dari waktu ke waktu
Sehingga perjanjian antara jasad dan nyawanya berakhir

Perempuan yang aku rindui
Adalah yang di mata dan wajahnya
Terpancar sinar nur Ilahi
Lidahnya basah dengan zikrullah
Sentiasa muraqabah
Setiap waktu sibuk membaiki diri
Di sudut hati kecilnya sentiasa membesarkan Allah

Perempuan yang aku cintai
Yang menutup auratnya dari pandangan ajnabi
Kehormatan dirinya menjadi mahal nilainya
Mujahadatunnafsi adalah perjuangan yang mesti
Muhasabatunnafsi dilakukan selalu
Disanjung tinggi penduduk langit dan bumi

Perempuan yang aku dambai
Yang mendekatkan hatiku yang jauh dari Allah
Tika aku di sana dilamar duniawi
Hadirnya memperkasa Akhiratku
Sewaktu aku alpa dan leka
Lembut manjanya mentazkirah diri
Di kala aku disapa bahana
Belai kasihnya menginsafkan naluri

Perempuan yang aku kasihi
Yang bersyukur pada apa yang ada
Yang bersabar pada apa yang tiada
Cinta pada hidup yang sederhana
Demi kebahagiaan abadi di sana

Perempuan yang aku sukai
Menjadi dian pada dirinya sendiri
Yang menjadi pelita untuk putera-puteriku
Yang bakal dilahirkan
Untuk menyambung perjuanganku
Menegak kalimah Allah nan qudus
Mendaulat perjuangan suci Junjungan Mulia

Perempuan yang aku impi
Adalah wanita yang luhur haqiqi
Muslimah yang setia sejati
Mu'minah yang taat pada Ilahi

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Boost your Self-esteem!

Prophet Muhammad P.B.U.H said “Do not fear be worthless: you say if people behave well, you behave too and if they misbehave, you do the same. Instead, if people behave well, you behave well too, and if they misbehave, do not act unjustly.” (Tirmidhi)

When we think of someone who has power, we imagine them to be dominant and controlling, but this is not true power. Our power lies deep within our souls. It is reflected in each action, movement and decision. It radiates love, compassion and understanding. It illuminates our surrounding and our world. Being powerful means overcoming our fears and self-doubts, exploring new challenges and fulfilling our duties and responsibilities.

Each of us is blessed with innumerable talents, faculties and potentials, the true challenge is to dig down into our souls to explore these faculties and make the most out of them. You cannot be happy unless you improve your sense of self-worth. That is always the first step to move further forward. By doing that, you unlock your potential and free your creative powers. Studies show that a strong belief in our own abilities significantly increases our satisfaction both at home and at work.

Do not discouraged by other people or try to copy them. Do not fear being different! Another of the Messenger’s wise sayings

“The strong believer is more loved by Allah than the weak one, and there is benefaction both.” (Muslim)

Now, to boost your self-esteem, try following these steps:

1. Believe in your self-worth and self-potential. Think about what your strong points are, write them down and keep the list where you can see to remind yourself. Work on improving and adding them. At the same time, keep your faith in your Creator. Always remind yourself that Allah is with you, that you certainly are on the right path and nothing can defeat you. Believe deep in your soul that your connection with Allah is the true source of your powers.

“… And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Indeed Allah has set a measure for all things.” (At-Thalaq: 3)

2. Asses your limitations and work with them. Figure out how you perceive yourself, recognize your own personal limits and acknowledge your human limitations. We are all human and we all have our flaws. Do not be ashamed of yours. Instead, recognize them so that you can figure out how to deal with them.

3. Visualize your personal success. Imagine performing your tasks well. The better you imagine yourself, the bigger the boost you are giving to your confidence.


4. Work to achieve your visualized goal, and remember that your aptitude and performance are directly related to your levels of confidence. When things go wrong, do not get discouraged, perceive it as a challenge and keep trying. Focus on success and always maintain your positive image.

Hope it helps. Thank you and good luck!

Reference:

1. Healing Body and Soul, Amira Ayad.
2. Quran Saintifik, Dr. Danial Zainal Abidin

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Forgive and Forget

“And whosoever is patient and forgives, indeed that is of the steadfast heart of things.” (Asy-Syura: 43)

When we are hurt, insulted or faced with injustice, we have 2 options to deal with our feelings: either to forgive and forget or to hate, harbor grudge and rancor and live to seek revenge. Both choices are hard, but their results are completely opposite. Hatred, bitterness and hostility intoxicate your body. They throw you into frustration, weaken your system and make your nerves tense. It will yield nothing but pain. On the other hand, forgiveness transcends the soul and frees you from your destructive negative energy. Forgiveness heals you not only emotionally but also physically and mentally. Is it not worth it to get rid of the burden of anger, hatred and resentment, to be able to restore your position in social life, giving and receiving support?

Lots of people refuse to forgive, thinking it a sign of weakness; they think that by forgiving they are surrendering to their offenders. On the contrary, by forgiving you cease to be the victim of hatred and anger and you triumph over your own evil. Now comes the most important question:

HOW TO FORGIVE?

It is a challenging task requiring a fight against our own selves, it is considered by Islam as a sacred type of Jihad. Prophet Muhammad S.A.W said

“A mujahid is one who engages in jihad against his own self in obeying Allah.” (Baihaqi)

Therefore, I would like to share a few helpful tips:

1. Allow yourself enough time to heal, let yourself fully express your feelings; do not just deny the pain and turn your back on it, expecting it to disappear on its own.

2. Perform regular breathing exercises: the easiest one is simply to observe your breathing. Do not try to control it or force it, just watch it and relax.

3. Practice thinking that this life is just a transient path and those little events make up the bridge on which we can cross to the next world. So, take what is absolutely necessary for you to cross it and leave what is not.

4. Honour the Divine Wisdom behind every event. Live in harmony with Allah’s will, rather than fighting it.

5. Keep your mind engaged with more important things. Think about Allah’s Oneness, Justice and Mercy, about the rewards of conquering your anger and forgiving the offender\

“Whoever forgives and makes reconciliation, his reward is due from Allah.” (Asy-Syura: 40)

6. Fear the punishment of Allah upon those whose hearts are filled with with anger, hatred and resentment.

7. Consider each event a lesson and every person a teacher, regardless of how you choose to judge their actions, it is useless to hate or blame them for the situation you are in.

8. Hatred is a heavy burden to carry, it does not benefit you or harm your offender in any way. It is a blinding sentiment that can eventually take full control of all your thoughts and actions.

9. Look for the good in everyone. Each person has to have a good side, we are human after all.

10. Know that Allah does not love anger, hatred or revenge.

11. Fill your heart with love and spread it all around you to extinguish the fire of rancor and anger.

Reference:

Healing Body and Soul, Amira Ayad

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Majlis Tilawah Al-Quran Peringkat Kebangsaan ke-52

“Dan berpeganglah kamu semuanya kepada tali (agama) Allah, dan janganlah kamu bercerai berai, dan ingatlah akan nikmat Allah kepadamu ketika kamu dahulu (masa Jahiliyah) bermusuh-musuhan, maka Allah mempersatukan hatimu, lalu menjadilah kamu karena nikmat Allah, orang-orang yang bersaudara; dan kamu telah berada di tepi jurang neraka, lalu Allah menyelamatkan kamu dari padanya. Demikianlah Allah menerangkan ayat-ayat-Nya kepadamu, agar kamu mendapat petunjuk.” (Al-Imran: 103)

Begitulah mafhum ayat yang dibacakan oleh Timbalan Perdana Menteri Malaysia, Tan Sri Muhyidin Yasin dalam ucapan perasmian Majlis Tilawah Al-Quran Peringkat Kebangsaan ke-52 di Dewan Canselor Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS semalam. Ayat ini merupakan teras kepada tema Tilawah kali ini iaitu ‘Wahdah Pemangkin Khaira Ummah’. Jelas sekali tema ini tampil dengan mesej perpaduan yang kukuh dalam kalangan umat Islam ke arah kemajuan.

Majlis Tilawah menampilkan keunikannya yang tersendiri. Dimulakan dengan pembacaan Al-Quran oleh 3 orang yang cacat penglihatan menggunakan Al-Quran Braille. Sejenak kagum melihat mereka yang kurang upaya mampu membaca Al-Quran dengan cukup baik setaraf dengan mereka yang sempurna jasad mahupun akal. Kagum juga melihat gaya ‘Menteri Besar’ Perak yang berucap dengan karisma sebagai seorang ustaz buat pertama kalinya dengan doa pembukaan yang agak panjang dan bacaan beberapa potong ayat suci Al-Quran. Hal yang sama dilihat pada YAB Timbalan Perdana Menteri. Walau bagaimanapun, satu usaha yang baik. Syabas diucapkan.

Dato' Dr. Zambry sedang berucap

Ucapan Tan Sri Muhyidin Yasin

Ketika slot gimik, majlis telah menampilkan seorang kanak-kanak buta berusia 11 tahun berasal dari Kelantan membaca Al-Quran Braille secara bertarannum. Subhanallah, terpacul secara spontan dari lidah ini. Bacaannya cukup menggetarkan jiwa. Jauh lebih hebat daripada suara Agnes Monica ketika menyanyikan lagu ‘Matahariku’. Hampir menitis airmata mendengar bacaannya walaupun tidak sampai 5 minit. Sungguh menginsafkan saya kira bukan diri saya sahaja, malah penonton lain yang menyaksikannya secara ‘LIVE’ mahupun dari kaca TV.

Qari cilik yang buta... bacaan yang mengujakan

Terkenang diri ini ketika usia 11 tahun yang masih merangkak membaca Al-Quran. Suka untuk saya berkongsi sedikit pengalaman ketika menjadi fasilitator Program Khemah Ibadah sekitar akhir tahun 2008 yang disertai oleh pelajar berusia 7-15 tahun. Terdapat satu slot peserta diajar untuk menghafaz Al-Quran dengan cara yang betul. Saya telah diminta oleh seorang fasilitator untuk mengendalikan sekumpulan pelajar yang langsung tiada asas dalam membaca Al-Quran berusia 11 hingga 14 tahun iaitu sebaya dengan qari cilik dalam gambar di atas. Bayangkan mereka langsung tidak tahu huruf-huruf hija'iyyah. Apatah lagi membaca Al-Quran. Pada awalnya saya agak marah. Namun, saya cuba redakan emosi dan menyelami kehidupan mereka satu-persatu. Kebanyakan mereka adalah anak yatim dari sebuah rumah anak yatim di Perak. Selebihnya tinggal bersama ibu bapa masing-masing di rumah dalam keadaan yang mewah. Rumah anak yatim tersebut tidak pernah menyediakan pengajian Al-Quran kepada penghuninya melainkan kepada penghuni yang agak 'senior'. Manakala peserta-peserta yang lebih bernasib baik tadi tidak pernah didedahkan dengan Al-Quran di rumah dan hanya sedikit penekanan di sekolah melalui kelas KAFA dan sebagainya. Mungkin mana-mana badan yang berkemampuan di IPT-IPT sekitar Perak boleh menghulurkan bantuan untuk mengajar Al-Quran kepada anak-anak yatim ini.

Itulah realiti dunia sahabat-sahabat. Lebih sedih apabila mengenangkan ramai sahabat di UTP mahupun di luar sana yang masih tidak mampu ataupun tidak mahu membaca Al-Quran. Al-Quran hanya disentuh mungkin sekali sahaja seumur hidup. Itupun ketika ibu bapa sedang nazak. Maka merangkaklah kita mencari surah Yasin. Mungkin juga seumur hidupnya hanya tahu membaca Al-Fatihah dan surah Yasin kerana dipelajari sewaktu Datuk ataupun nenek meninggal. Lebih malang lagi apabila lagu-lagu tidak bermoral diberi prioriti lebih daripada Al-Quran. Maka apakah nilai kalamullah ini di sisi mereka? Apakah nilai kalamullah di sisi kita?

“Dan sesungguhnya Kami telah mendatangkan sebuah Kitab (Al Quran) kepada mereka yang Kami telah menjelaskannya atas dasar pengetahuan Kami; menjadi petunjuk dan rahmat bagi orang-orang yang beriman.” (Al-A’raaf: 52)

Justeru, saya menyeru sahabat-sahabat untuk sama-sama mendalami Al-Quran bukan sahaja dari aspek tajwid atau tarannum, malah yang jauh lebih penting adalah intipati Al-Quran itu sendiri.

“…Katakanlah: "Adakah sama orang-orang yang mengetahui dengan orang-orang yang tidak mengetahui?" Sesungguhnya orang yang berakallah yang dapat menerima pelajaran.” (Az-Zumar: 9)

Al-Quran Braille

Marilah sama-sama kita menghayati bacaan yang diperdengarkan oleh qari-qari dan qariah-qariah yang hebat-hebat belaka di Dewan Canselor, UTP secara 'LIVE'. Jika tidak mampu, tontonilah TV1 setiap malam sehingga 19 Julai mahupun melalui radio IKIM.fm dan Klasik.fm. Tapi bila tengok LIVE ni, 'feel' dia lebih sikit... hehe..

Wallahua'lam

Nota: 1st time chancellor hall penuh dan melimpah ke luar.... huhuh

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Budaya Dialektik Pemacu Masyarakat Dinamik

Socrates

Kisah Socrates dan Euthyphro

Euthyphro pernah ditanya oleh Socrates, seorang failasuf Yunani terkenal tentang maksud ‘piety’ atau boleh juga diterjemahkan sebagai soleh.

Lalu Euthyphro menjawab “orang yang soleh adalah orang yang disayangi tuhan.”

Socrates bertanya “Bukankah tuhan juga bersifat pemarah?”

Euthyphro membenarkannya sahaja.

“Jadi, mesti ada tuhan-tuhan tertentu yang menyayangi dan tuhan-tuhan tertentu yang marah ke atas sesuatu?” Kata Socrates.

Juga dibenarkan sahaja oleh Euthyphro.

“Oleh itu, pasti ada seseorang yang disayangi tuhan dan dalam masa yang sama dibencinya(soleh dan tidak soleh).” Jelas Socrates.

Sememangnya hal ini tidak boleh diterima oleh akal.Perdebatan ini menyedarkan Euthyphro bahawa huraian maksud perkataan tersebut masih tidak lengkap dan dianggap salah.

Senario di atas memberi gambaran ringkas tentang konsep dialektik yang berakar umbi dari falsafah Yunani kuno. Ia merupakan salah satu kaedah perbahasan antara dua individu yang berbeza pendirian dan pendapat. Matlamat utama kaedah ini adalah untuk mencari penyelesaian melalui perbincangan yang rasional dan seterusnya mencari kebenaran. Perbincangan mengenai dialektik sangat berkait rapat dengan budaya kritis.

Frasa ‘Modal Insan’ yang kerap kali dilaungkan oleh golongan pemerintah banyak merujuk kepada pembangunan kemahiran teknikal dan kreativiti dengan matlamat untuk melahirkan golongan pekerja. Konon kreativiti mampu memacu rakyat menjadi lebih dinamik. Namun, kreatif tanpa dipadankan dengan Kritis boleh mengancam kestabilan intelektual. Hasilnya, lahirlah robot-robot dengan gelaran golongan profesional yang sebenarnya menjadi balaci golongan kapitalis.

Krisis Intelektual

Sejak sekian lama rakyat Malaysia diancam krisis intelektual yang merosakkan akibat tekanan pemerintah. Contoh yang mudah, lihat sahaja golongan pelajar sekolah. Mereka ‘disuap’ dengan segala macam pengetahuan(bukan ilmu) untuk ‘dimuntahkan’ kembali ke atas kertas ketika peperiksaan tanpa memahami apa realiti sebenar di sebaliknya. Kerap kali para pelajar disekat untuk bertanya soalan yang kononnya ‘di luar silibus’ dengan ayat-ayat seperti “Soalan awak tu tak masuk exam.”,”Tak payah tahulah benda tu, awak dah boleh dapat A dah dengan apa yang cikgu ajar ni.” Dan lain-lain. Silibus pula diubah suai untuk memuaskan nafsu golongan pemerintah. Isi-isi yang penting dibuang dan diganti dengan kepalsuan. Pelajar-pelajar pula ‘ditipu’ dengan diberikan keputusan yang cemerlang dalam SPM dan anugerah yang pelbagai untuk ‘memujuk’ rakyat dan menidakkan pembangkang.

Unsur-unsur sebegini jelas menyekat budaya kritis di minda golongan remaja dan menyebabkan mereka menghidap sindrom Dogmatisme yang membarah dari satu generasi ke satu generasi. Bagaimana sekatan tersebut berlaku?

Ia berlaku apabila kritikan yang diberikan dianggap sebagai ancaman kepada kemaslahatan pihak-pihak tertentu. Justeru, harus ditentang dengan apa cara sekalipun termasuk memanipulasi undang-undang untuk menutup ruang idea yang bersifat kontradik ini. Buktinya jelas dengan penggunaan undang-undang ISA ke atas Tan Hoon Cheng, wartawan Sin Chew Daily berkaitan kes Teresa Kok sekitar September 2008. Akibatnya, mereka yang ditahan mengalami trauma.

Memetik kata-kata Dr. Abu Hassan Hasbullah, seorang pensyarah pengajian media Universiti Malaya:

“Kita perlu membina budaya menerima kritikan. Kita perlu belajar untuk menerima kritikan dan hidup dengan budaya ini untuk membentuk masyarakat yang dinamik.”

Sekilas pandang, kata-kata tersebut mungkin tercetus daripada kebimbangan beliau terhadap masyarakat Malaysia terutamanya bangsa Melayu yang takut untuk berbeza pandangan. Ketakutan sebegini sudah pasti berakar dari generasi yang lalu walaupun polarisasi politik baru sedikit sebanyak telah mengubah stigma ini.

Membentuk Budaya Dialektik

Budaya dialektik di Yunani

Mari kita sejenak merenung negara-negara maju seperti Amerika Syarikat, Kanada dan Jepun. Perbezaan pendapat amat diraikan agar mereka dapat duduk semeja berbincang dengan rasional, dan seterusnya mencapai penyelesaian yang terbaik. Malah, pemimpin mereka kerap bertukar-tukar berbanding Malaysia yang masih terperangkap dengan sistem pemerintahan ala-ala feudal. Akhirnya Jepun mampu bangkit sebagai salah satu kuasa besar ekonomi malah mengetepikan Amerika Syarikat.

Begitulah senario yang menunjukkan betapa penting budaya kritis atau dialektik dipupuk dalam diri masyarakat. Namun begitu, adalah diakui segalanya perlu dibatasi. Sebagai Muslim, segala yang bersifat qat’i tidak boleh diperdebatkan lagi. Tetapi yang selain daripadanya dibolehkan selagi berada dalam ruang lingkup yang selamat. Kita bersifat kritikal bukan kerana semata-mata berbeza pendapat, tetapi untuk mencari al-Haq. Kita juga perlu belajar untuk menerima kritikan secara positif dan cuba mengambil isi kritikan tersebut untuk membangunkan diri. Terimalah dengan rasional bukan emosional. Namun begitu, tidak bermakna kita boleh mengkritik semahu-mahunya sehingga melanggar batas kemanusiaan. Adab-adab masih perlu dijaga. Kurangkan penggunaan perkataan bersifat negatif seperti ‘tidak’, ‘bukan’, ‘jangan’, ‘salah’ dan sebagainya. Kaedah dialektik sebagaimana yang dipraktiskan Socrates merupakan salah satu kaedah menarik untuk menjelaskan sesuatu pendapat dan mencetuskan legasi perbincangan yang rasional. Semoga dengan pembudayaan pemikiran kritis mampu membentuk masyarakat Malaysia yang lebih dinamik.

P/S: Luahan perasaan je sebenarnya, juz nak sampaikan dalam bentuk yang boleh difahami walaupun ideanya kurang tersusun. Maaf ye...

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Menghayati Tanda kekuasaan Allah

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