A Revert on Hijab

This revert gives beautiful views about hijab and its importance. Its amazing how she focuses on the inner hijab as well. Hopefully this will be able to inspire everyone... :)

Realize now?

Today as i was coming towards work, i passed and stopped near a place where a lot of males were going about their work. It was a small market area. As the car was waiting for a bit i felt very uncomfortable to be in this mini market kind of area with so many people.

 Just at this moment the thought of Bibi Zainab(a.s) came in my mind. Me with my hijab, securely locked in the car was having this extremely uncomfortable feeling, imagine what someone like Sayyida Zainab(a.s) felt, who was used to so much pardah that when the women of ahlulbayt(a.s) walked outside, no one could even tell who it was. Imagine a women like this with nothing but makna on her head? All the people staring at her. Can you imagine the feeling, think from the heart of a female...we with our hijabs can't tolerate being in such a crowded area. Imagine the sacrifice she gave... :'(.

Yet have we ever thought how we are repaying her back? When we go out and flaunt our beauty for the general public at weddings, functions, markets etc. Are we being true to Bibi Zainab(a.s)? She gave up the comfort and security of her own house to save Islam, YET what are we doing as females? We are so proud of our beauty/looks that we can't even follow Islam? Have you ever thought that who has given you all this beauty? Did you somehow get it yourself? No, right?! It is an 'amanat' given to you by Allah(swt), then how do you even dare to think you have a right to misuse it?

When those tears fall out of your eyes on hearing the afflictions borne by Bibi Zainab(a.s), think how she must feel to see you bare headed with tight clothes, no covering etc. Can we love someone and YET hurt them this way with our continuous behavior?! Do you remember the words of Imam Zain ul Abideen(a.s) when he said sham  3 times on being asked where he felt the most grief. Imagine he didnt say when Hazrat Ali Akbar(a.s) was martyred or when little Hazart Ali Asghar(a.s) was martyred, or when the arms of Hazrat Abbas(a.s) were cut off...he even didn't mention when Imam Hussain(a.s) was martyred all alone and thirsty in scorching heat of Kerbala! But he just said Sham. Imagine the level of grief at seeing women of Ahlulbayt(a.s) bare headed, out in the eyes of all those na mahrams. Does this make you realize the importance of Hijab?

Think about it real real hard, the next time tears flow out of your eyes on hearing the tragedy of Kerbala.

Who to trust?

I am sure there is hardly anyone who hasn't been betrayed by someone they trusted, or even unintentionally someone has broken their trust. Its situations like these when the closest turn against you that the following verse is realized fully.

لا حول ولاقوة إلا بالله

There is no power nor strength with (anyone) save Allah.

Maybe its human tendency to try and always lean on someone or to search saviors in people. What we usually forget is that no one has absolute selflessness, love or mercy like Allah(swt). At one point or the other when the push comes to a shove, expectations fall flat and we are left grasping in thin air. What remains afterwards is nothing but sadness and hopelessness.
Wouldn't it be so much better that we take some pre-emptive measure and understand that no one can be trusted except Allah(swt)? You can give as much love and trust to anyone you want BUT it would be rather futile to expect the same from people in this world....after all everyone is just human. 
That's why even Imam Ali(a.s) says in this dua:

O' my Allah! preserve (the grace of) my face with easiness of life and do not disgrace my countenance with destitution, lest I may have to beg a livelihood from those who beg from Thee, try to seek the favour of Thy evil creatures, engage myself in praising those who give to me, and be tempted in abusing those who do not give to me, although behind all these Thou art the master of giving and denying.

. . . Verily Thou over all things, art the All-powerful.(Qur'an, 66:8)
ref:http://www.al-islam.org/nahj/

Given the kind of conditions prevalent in this world, place all your trust in Allah(swt). At times it may seem difficult as people can be seen, and it becomes easier to ask them of stuff...BUT then remember the consequences. There is always a chance that someone might not have the zarf to do a good deed and not shove it back in your face.


I remember this narration vaguely, sorry if i don't narrate the exact version. Once one of the Imam's(a.s) was walking and saw a man leaning on the door of some person. Imam(a.s) asked  the guy what he was doing. He replied i am needy and trying to ask for help. The imam(a.s) said let me take you to a better place, he took the man to a mosque and told him to bow down to Allah(swt) and ask for whatever he wanted.


To prevent all the heartaches, disappointments, just prostrate before Allah(swt), raise hands in dua. HE(swt) is the mighty and the powerful who can give peace and none other. InshaAllah may we all always rely on Allah(swt) and not have to bend infront of anyone.

What is your answer...?!

When imam(a.s) was about to leave for the battle of Kerbala, he invited many people. Some were invited through a general invitation, some through a messenger and some personally. There were many who refused, or let go of this opportunity to help Yabna Zahra(a.s). When we think about these people, we feel shocked that how can someone refuse to help Imam(a.s) in his jihad. We wonder at these people and their thought process that they might commit such an immense mistake. But stop, look at yourself and tell me if you aren't refusing imam(a.s)'s invitation for jihad as well....?!

At that time imam(a.s) needed people for physical battle BUT even now imam(a.s)'s invitation is open for us, not for a physical battle but for a mental one, a battle against our nafs, our nafs-e ammara. Are we accepting his invitation to fight this battle, or are we like those people who shock us? Are we also refusing imam(a.s)'s invitation?

Dear brothers and sisters, its the start of Muharam, remember the call of "Hal min nasir yan sur na"...?! That invitation is for all times, to come...don't make the same mistake as people of the past and let go of this opportunity. Take this month to answer imam(a.s)'s call, battle your nafs, let go of your sins and try to become some one whom the imam(a.s) would be proud to call his(a.s) Shia. Become someone who brings a smile to imam(ajtf)'s face and not tears to his eyes.

Next time when you start stepping towards a sin, let the echo of hal min nasir yansur na resound in your ear!

Condolences to everyone especially Imam Al-Asr(ajtf) on the start of muharram.

Yet Another day...

Another Friday has come, Yet we are without our master Imam Al-Asr(ajtf).
The world continues to spiral into darkness, misery increases, Yet we are still alone.
How many more breaths till he(ajtf) comes?
How long till we have to tolerate this world and its injustice?
Is their anyone who can end this miserable and unjust existence in this world?
Can anyone get up and claim that they can fix all that is wrong in this world?

If not then how come we sleep at night peacefully and don't ponder over the reasons for delay in his(ajtf) reappearance? How is it that when some loved and dear one is away and we are unable to contact them for some time, we get anxious, sleepless, worried, depressed, yet here the one who matters, the light of every momin's eyes, the peace of heart, the absolute love is missing and we are not bothered? Does it not bring tears to your eyes, to think that the next moment will be without him(ajtf) as well? Does not the heart sink at this thought?

Think about it! Are we responsible for our misery? Is it our sins, our actions?
Think about it before our existence and life becomes more of a hellhole!

Where are you O Imam(ajtf), the heart is empty without you...:'(...?!

Whose isolating?

Yesterday i was listening to this lecture by Ali Murtaza Zaidi and he said a very thought provoking thing. He said that since Satan can't deviate the Aima(a.s) or the Masoomeen(s.a), he tries to deviate the people around them. Here these people are the followers or the potential followers.

If these people get deviated that means, the Aima(a.s) are left without any followers and essentially left all alone. Look at the example of Imam Musa Kadhim(a.s), he spent most of his time in jail and yet none of his followers were able to get him free. If thats not putting the Imam(a.s) in a position of isolation than what is?
Are we doing the same to Imam Al-Hujjah(ajtf) when we let Satan deviate us, when we miss our prayers, lie, manipulate, backbite, don't do hijab, listen to music etc etc. Whose side are we helping, the Imam's(a.s) or the Satan's?!

Please think about it...the enemies have already been a source of sadness for the Ahlulbayt(s.a)...do YOU want to be as well...?!

You can listen to the complete lecture here(in urdu): Self Building - Khud Saazi - Lecture 1 - AMZ - Urdu

Priceless Treasure

The world is in a crazy race to make as much money as they want, reach the highest level of success YET i wonder at these people as they fail to recognize the true treasure. I feel it is one of the most elusive treasures of it all, its nothing other than INNER PEACE. One can have as many material things as they want, as much success as they like but can it guarantee inner peace? No!
One of the reasons the world has become such a messed up place full of anxiety, tension, worries, anger...all the negative emotions one can count is because of a lack of inner peace. As i write this i wish i could achieve that state of inner peace as well where nothing and no one affects me, no matter where i go or with whom i am, i always remain in a state of inner calm and peace. BUT *sigh* unfortunately as i said its an elusive treasure, bestowed upon those lucky few who manage to reach that state of neareness and piety to Allah(swt). We can strive for it i guess, well here are some useful things we can do to try and reach this state:


Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi writes:

A person can achieve inner peace by creating harmony and balance between his main emotions (desire and anger) and his spiritual self. In other words, between his emotions and his conscience.
Human's spiritual power or conscience is not a static phenomenon: it has the ability of growth as well as decadence. God swears by the soul of human being and says, "He inspired to it to understand what is good and what is evil. Prosperous in the person who purifies it, and failed is he who seduces it." (Qur'an; chp. 91, verse 10).

ref:An Introduction to Islam


In Ibid,. Khutab No. 220  it is written that:

He has revived his intellect and slain his self, until his body became lean and its bulkiness shrunk, and stubborness turned into tenderness (of heart). Then an effulgence, like a thunderbolt, descended his heart and illuminated the path before him, opening all the doors, and led him straight into the gateway of Peace. Now his feet, carrying his body, are firmly rooted in the position of safety (on the Sirat) and comfort because he kept his heart busy with good deeds and won the good pleasure of his God. 

As we can see the passage above talks about the self struggle against one's nafs and drowning oneself in piety and righteousness. Its one of the greater Jihad's and thats why achieving inner peace is not easy. It says in the Quran:
Indeed, the hearts are at rest in God 's remembrance.(13:28) 


When one talks about Imam Hussain(a.s) and nafs-e mutmainna, the following lines fit in perfectly to describe his sacrifice and spiritual state:
He did everything only for God, and so God also made him His own.[Ibid, Khutab No. 87]
ref: The Glimpses of Nahj al Balaghah Part III - Suluk and 'Ibadah


Piety is a very important thing which can heal an ailing heart. It sounds strange and at times we have to struggle a lot and the heart still aches BUT it takes time and is a difficult process, as the final reward is not very easy. So its all about striving continuously.


Certainly, fear of Allah (taqwa) is … the cure for the ailments of your bodies…[Imam Ali(a.s)-Ibid]
A person who has taqwa is satisfied with his limits and his rights, feels calm and confident, and has inner peace. This results in a healthier heart; tensions will not cause him to suffer from stomach ulcers and from pain in his intestines. The well-being of his body, social life, and spirit all depend on taqwa.
ref:Taqwa and Health


May we all achieve Inner Peace and tranquility and always remain on the straight path(ameen).

Priceless Pearls

There comes a time in life when a man is left with nothing, no material greatness, no sincere friends, relatives etc. At a time like this its very easy to fall into despair, to look at one's empty hands and feel worthless. It's human to look at others in their adornments and comforts and feel a sense of lowness in one's own self worth.

At times like this we forget a very important treasure which we might not be able to see but it exists nonetheless. It's the treasure of duas.  It's that hidden treasure which we forget we even have. So whenever you feel worthless and empty handed, just raise your hands, pick up these priceless pearls and realize how rich you truly are. This is one treasure that you will never run out of. Ahlulbayt(s.a) have left us with such an immense treasure that it might not even compare to the riches of the whole world combined.

Sometimes it's difficult to believe in what we don't see, or something that's intangible, but isn't that what self struggle is all about? Isn't this the path we need to take to reach a higher spiritual state? If we can truly believe in the existence of these treasures, we will never feel poor or destitute. If you just have sahifa e kamila(sahiffa e sajjadiya), mafatih ul Jinnah etc at homes, consider yourself the richest.

Mirror Mirror on the Wall...

This is not gonna be a long post, just a question i want to ask. Yesterday i was watching the program in which a guy has the ability to see the true nature of people. For example if someone is a killer, thief etc he is able to see. This made me think about how Islam talks about people changing into different animals to reflect their true nature after death.

Have you ever really thought about who you truly are? Are you sure that if you look into a mirror with a clear eyesight you will see a human and not an animal? even if you are fooling the world, can you fool yourself as well? Have you become so deceived yourself that when you look in the mirror you don't see your reality?!

Please be honest and truly look into the mirror to see yourself for who you are, otherwise it might be too late. Rather than being raised as a human after death, you might just be an animal.

It has been recorded from the Prophet (S) of God that some persons will be raised on the Last Day in such a mien that even monkeys and dog flies will appear better looking than that. It is also possible that several forms may be prescribed for one individual in that world. Because that world is not like this world, where one individual cannot acquire more than one form. This account itself is logical as well as self-evident. Because, the criterion of those different forms (of which human form is one) would be the state of soul at the time of death the state in which the soul departs from the body. It is in this very state and form that man's soul enters the realm of Barzakh. At the time of entering the other world, that is, the domain of the Hereafter, the first stage of which is Barzakh, in whichever state one's soul departs from the body, it assumes a form suited to it in the next world also. It is the same form in which he is perceived by the inhabitants of Barzakh and by himself, when he first opens his eyes there, if he has not lost his sight to do so. Because, it is not necessary that man may enter the next world in the same physical state as he had in this world. God Himself says that on the Last Day some of the persons will ask God that why has He raised them as blind while they possessed eyes in the world. God will answer them that as they disregarded His clear signs in the world, they are forgotten and disregarded by God today.

ref:First Hadith: On the Tradition of the Forty Ahadith

Hope

This world has become a difficult place to live in. At times it seems as if every door is closed, we are trapped in something for which no escape seems possible. At such times is their something to give us hope? I was listening to this beautiful lecture which shed light on this topic. I hope it also helps you when you feel their is no hope left.

Female Integrity

What kind of times have come? Day by day i am more shocked and depressed. There was a time when females were synonymous with modesty. It was an understood thing that a wife would be loyal, would guard herself. It was implicit that the most important thing to a female would be her modesty.

BUT what is happening now? Wives are having extra marital affairs, girls are prettying themselves up in immodest fashions just to gain attention. And to top it all up it doesn't even shock anyone anymore. A true reflection of this degradation can be seen from the media. They are showing females in the most disgusting and immoral roles. Its amazing to see that this is being churned out of the so called *Islamic Republic of Pakistan*. I feel sick of this setup and immorality. It seems their is no escape, everywhere you turn its the same. *Sigh* world has become a messed messed up place and Pakistan seems to be at the center of that mess.

Patience & Forebearence

I met a friend recently who has been out of Pakistan for a few years and she made me realize how frustrated and impatient we as a nation have become and therefore i felt it was relevant to write something about this topic. Its true that in current times every step is full of difficulty and calamities, it is very easy to lose patience and become frustrated. Life can seem oppressive at times and it almost seems impossible to move on. It's at these times it's important to keep certain traditions and narrations in mind to help one get over the frustrations and disappointments and be patient.  Below i am relating some of these narrations:

Beware! Your patience should not be like those of ordinary people. Instead of remaining patient, they were more concerned with their exhibition of patience. This is Riyakari. The patience of muttaqi (pious) people should be such in which there is hope of reward in the hereafter. Arifs (those who have knowledge about the qualities of Allah) should be such that at the time of patience, they should enjoy their hardships because these hardships have been given by the Beloved who is aware of its result.

Allah the Most High said: “O you who believe, seek assistance through patience and prayer; surely Allah is with the patient.”

 He also said: “And give good news to the patient. Who, when a misfortune befalls them, say: 'Surely we are Allah's and to Him we shall surely return.' Those are they on whom are blessings and mercy from their Lord, and those are the followers of the right course.” 

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.a.) said: “There are three kinds of forbearance: Forbearance in misfortune, forbearance in obedience and forbearance against disobedience.”

Imam 'Ali (a.s.) the Commander of the Faithful said: “The role of patience in actions is like the role of the head among the organs of the body. If the head is gone the organs become useless and if patience is gone actions are useless.”

And seek assistance through patience and prayer; and most surely it is a hard thing, except for the humble ones (2:45), who know that they shall meet their Lord and that they shall return to Him (2:46). 

Imam As-Sādiq (a. s.) said: "Whenever ‘Alī (a.s.) faced a difficulty, he used to stand up for the prayer and then recite this verse: and seek assistance through patience and prayer." (al-Kāfī) 

Yeah things can seem very difficult at times BUT just remember these traditions and keep in mind the tragedy of Kerbala. How Imam Hussain(a.s) kept on moving even after he had to carry so many bodies, face so many enemies alone, he didn't give up but went ahead with his mission with patience and forbearance.

references:
Al-Mizan-Chapter 13
Living the Right Way by Ayatullah Jawad Tehraani 
WASIYATNAMA (Last Will & Testament) Ayatullah Shaikh Abdulla Mamkani (a.r.)'s will to his children, relatives, well-wishers and friends
 http://www.al-islam.org/short/wasiyatnama/38.htm

Dua by Imam Hussain(a.s)

This is such a short BUT beautiful dua. Each line holds a very deep meaning. Whenever you feel depressed, saddened by this world and hopeless of people just think about these moving words. They will surely help you understand and feel better...:)

In the morning of the day of Āshura the horsemen of the enemy launched an attack on the ranks of the Imam. The Imam(a.s) raised his hands in prayer and said: 


"O Lord! I depend on you in every affliction and am hopeful of Your blessing in every hardship.

In every difficulty with which I am faced, You are my only remedy and resort. 


There have been many embarrassments which weakened my heart and no remedy for it was available.


The friends did not assist me and the enemies rejoiced at my misfortune.


However, when I ceased to seek assistance from everyone except You and sought the remedy only from You, You provided me solace and relief and removed the difficulty.


Every blessing and goodness reaches us from You and everything should be sought from You only".


Ref:Supplication of Imam in the Morning of Ashura

Round and Round

Has life become like that of  a hamster that runs on a wheel but essentially stays at the same position. Are we going round and round yet not moving a step ahead? Are we at the same place that we started in the morning? Is our life passing this way?
Round and round we go...till when?!

World is a Prison

Holy Prophet(pbuh) has narrated : "This world is a prison for the believer and a paradise for the disbeliever".
No matter how lovely this world might seem to many, its nothing compared to what would be offered in the hereafter.

 Imam Ali(a.s) has narrated  : "To continue, surely, the likeness of this world is that of a snake: it is soft to touch, and deadly poisonous. The ignorant child is distracted by it, and the one with understanding and intellect is cautious of it. So turn away from what fascinates you in it, for how little of it stays with you."

Keep such narrations in mind and do not be attracted by this world. Always view it as an evil thing. Only then will you be able to bear the tests and trials of this world with patience. After all who expects comfort from a prison or soothing effect from poison, right?!

Good disposition

I think having a good disposition is one of the great struggles of these days. Society has become such that we are faced with rude, arrogant, mean people at every turn of our lives. It becomes that much harder when its someone closer to us. Sometimes its our relatives themselves who behave in such a manner that it becomes difficult to maintain good akhlaq. We feel like lashing out, showing our frustration, being rude to them etc. BUT is this the way we should act? I know it's very hard, i only felt the need to write this because sometimes i struggle with this as well. Its obvious that the more closer and attached you are to someone the more power they get over you to hurt you.


Now let us look what Islam teaches us to do in such conditions. We can look at examples from the lives of Ahlul Bayt(s.a) and Quran to learn.

Once A man asked the Holy Prophet: “What is the best of all actions”? The Holy Prophet replied: “Akhlaq”.

The Holy Prophet(saww) has also said: " you should create within yourself the Akhlaq(behavior) of Allah". For example Allah(swt) is merciful: we should be merciful to others. Allah(swt) is forgiving: we should also forgive others when they are at fault. Allah(swt) treats even his enemies with love and magnanimity, we should also do likewise.

ref:On Akhlaq

In a tradition in which Holy Prophet(saww) narrates the true characteristics of a believer he says: ”(The complete true believer is one who) is sweeter than honey; and is stronger than the outside of a rock; and who does not expose the secrets that people confide in him; and if he himself finds out something about other people, he does not expose this information.”
ref:Characteristics of a True Believer– Part V

If we focus on the first part it talks about honey. This means that whoever comes in contact with honey feels a sweetness. Believers should be the same way. Imagine this: if honey was put in something sour, it would turn it sweet. This means that if we come in contact with unpleasant people, we should not let ourselves become unpleasant rather we should act like honey and counter affect their sourness. This is a very difficult thing, but as a wise friend said, practice makes perfect. So the next time, you meet someone rude or mean, think of it as a practice situation.

It may be hard BUT with practice may Allah(swt) give us taufeeq to be patient and kind to those who do wrong unto us....(ameen).

Why?

Is Pakistan not a Muslim country? Was Imam Hussain(a.s) not the grandson of Holy Prophet(saww)? Did the Prophet(saww) not love him? What in the freakin hell is then the problem with people that they kill innocent people just because they love family of Holy Prophet(saww)? Since when has it become a crime?
What is wrong with the people of this nation? Why have they become dead and insensitive to the continuous atrocities? May Lanat fall for eternity on the killers and the like of them...May they rot in hell forever and ever.

Wake up people before its too late. Stand up for your rights and see whats happening. Don't close your eyes, your blood is not cheap. See what the enemy is doing! Please for heaven sake before its too late to counter the damage!

See the pictures below and think about the families who are left behind? Does your heart not cry at these images? Aren't you a little bit saddened? Or are you still going to go on with your frivolous life style, go visit expensive restaurants, spend on designer clothes, dance to Bollywood songs while your sisters and brothers in faith are killed? Are you not becoming part of oppressors as well?

Why limit?

[Shakir 2:156] Who, when a misfortune befalls them, say: Surely we are Allah's and to Him we shall surely return.

The above verse has somehow been limited to being recited when someone dies, how is it that we have failed to understand its true meaning and just limited it to a certain area. Isn't it like the same treatment we have given to Quran? Either we recite it at someone's death or give it as a gift on weddings.


Only if this verse is applied to our lives, we'll bring a revolution within ourselves, our house and our community. The only thing is to understand its true meaning. That's the power of Quran, a single verse is revolutionary and carries an ocean of knowledge and wisdom within it.


You must be wondering how this can change our lives? Well if you truly start believing that we are from Allah(swt) and to him we shall return, would something else matter than? Would we run after this temporary world? would we give in to our desires for the sake of this temporary abode? If we know we are slaves of Allah(swt), people, things, places nothing would hold any meaning. Only the happiness of Allah(swt) would matter because we would know that's the final place we will end up in.


Therefore don't limit this great verse, keep it in your head at all times. We are like trustees of Allah(swt) in this world, so don't mishandle what you have been given. All the tangible as well as intangible are the property of Allah(swt).  Take proper care of it and return them in their true and uncorrupted form to the true Owner.


InshaAllah may we all realize our true destination...ameen.

Home is where...

You know how the phrase goes: "Home is where the heart is"...?! Until we find that home (meaning we find where our heart lies) we can never find peace. We can travel millions of miles, live in the most luxurious of settings, have the best food, best weather etc. BUT still we won't find peace or happiness.
WHY? Because our heart is not there! Can a body exist without a heart?! When their isn't any heart we are no better than zombies. So the questions arises, "are we home", "are we where our heart is"?! Have we ever stopped from this rut of our lives and asked ourselves this question?


The next  point that comes up is where to find our heart, where to find this home? Let us look at the Quran to find an answer. It says in the Quran:


الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَتَطْمَئِنُّ قُلُوبُهُمْ بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ ۗ أَلَا بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ تَطْمَئِنُّ الْقُلُوبُ {28}
[Shakir 13:28] Those who believe and whose hearts are set at rest by the remembrance of Allah; now surely by Allah's remembrance are the hearts set at rest.


This shows that our heart should be where Allah(swt) is, if this won't be so, we will never find peace. So you won't find real home anywhere or you could find it everywhere. This means that if you have Allah(swt) in your heart, the bleakest of places, environment can become your sanctuary. Once when one of the Aima(a.s) was being put in prison he didn't say any thing negative rather stated that he is lucky to be getting so much time alone to worship Allah(swt). See how a heart that has Allah(swt) always remains at peace.
On the other hand look at us, no matter where we go, how many comfortable things we get, we are always looking for something more. We are always in need of that *tiny* little "more" to fill that hole in our heart but unfortunately it never does.


Look at some of these other ayah's, so that the point becomes more clear.
[Shakir 8:45] O you who believe! when you meet a party, then be firm, and remember Allah much, that you may be successful.
Shakir 4:175] Then as for those who believe in Allah and hold fast by Him, He will cause them to enter into His mercy and grace and guide them to Himself on a right path.


Therefore dear brothers and sisters, don't try to find solace in material things, extreme sports, thrilling events, music etc. None of this is going to give you what you desire. Listen to the heart and try to find the true Home. Find the path that leads their and don't stop till you reach Home.


InshaAllah May allah(swt) guide us to our true home and destination...Ameen.

Journey of Love

I don't think i could have described my experience of ziyarat in words but my very talented friend Habib proved otherwise. Here is a poem she wrote for me...=). Go visit her blog(scentedscroll) for more of her poems, mashAllah she is very talented.

The Journey of Love
A lover’s footsteps can be traced along this path,
Wrought with dangers, placed by those who seek;
by their actions and words, to extinguish this love.
But the call has been made; and the lover must obey,
Despite the thorns that wish to make her stumble,
Her anxiously fevered heart cooled by the thought of the return,
Returning her to a land she has never visited,
Except in her dreams…

The first step on the soil of Qom,
Like the resting of one’s head on a mother’s lap,
A shelter of love and affection; yet, at the same time,
A myriad of emotions, like a pandoras box opened up:
Love, Peace, Joy, and Sadness.
Yet, the journey is only beginning,
The source of love has not been visited:
The pure sister of the lonely Imam.

As one approaches the spot where she lays,
The heart is overcome by grief,
And the eyes overflow with tears,
Overwhelmed by the humbling effect of being so close,
To one whose faith and purity was known far and wide,
A reminder like a ray in the dark evil world.

For once the lover feels at home,
Like the heart has found the place of its rest; and
As the head prostrates on the cool marble floor,
Sending out a soothing energy,
The heat within me subsides, extinguished.
Time loses all meaning; and
Hours rushed by like seconds.
A place of new perceptions,
Where problems, hardships and anxiety,
Suddenly look like mirages,
Disappearing at the proximity with the pure ones,
And the heart takes root,
Despairing at the thought of ever having to leave,
For now, heaven’s doors open wide,
For now, the moment is mine.

Dreams only last because they will end,
Reality breaking through, dragging you from home,
The journey to the beloved must come to an end.
Grief like a gushing fountain of water drenches the lover,
Like that of a child torn away from their parents.
The heartbreak subsides only through hope,
That I came once, I will surely return again.
Will you turn away the hopeless who has found peace with you?
Will you chase the beggar whose needs you fulfilled?
I tear my body away with a whispered prayer,
By your grace,
Let me visit again, allow me to return home.

Away from home, the lost is left wandering,
The need to return blots all meaning from life.
How am I to bear this separation?
How is this feeble heart to tolerate this grief?
When will I be back?
When will I cleanse my soul at the waters of your tomb?
How long will I be able to bear the weight of the dust,
Of sins and the pretensions of this world?
How long?
Please make it soon,
Before I am lost…
Lost forever in this dust.

Ready?

This may sound very over dramatic to people but after watching Mukhtar Nameh(The Mukhtar Series) i have literally gotten goose bumps and a very unsettled feeling in the pit of my stomach. Watching the events of that time in live pictures have really brought the message home for me.

We think we have loyalty to Alhulbayt(s.a) and would be willing to sacrifice our lives for them BUT how true is that? Looking at the series when the loyalist of people started questioning the actions of Imam(a.s), when people easily sold their eeman for gold, for security...can we say we have enough strength of eeman to not fall in these traps. When the call is made to choose the right side would we be able to give up the comfort of our house, be willing to sacrifice our lives? Do we have enough strength to go against the majority and even if the future looks bleak be ready to fight for the truth.

It's easy to say Al Ajal Ya Imam(ajtf) or Labbayk Ya Hussain(a.s) BUT do we truly mean it ?! The series has really made me realize how weak a person is, how easy it is to fall prey to the "whispering of the Satan"!

What can we do...how can we strengthen ourselves?! How can we ever be sure we will choose the right path when the push comes to a shove? Is that why Ghaybat doesn't end? Are our Al Ajal Ya Imam(ajtf) not from our heart...are we also like the weak willed people shown in this series?!

Ya Allah(swt) protect us...*cry*...strengthen our faith...Ameen...:(

Reality of this world

Many times the reality of this world confuses us. We often wonder why we have to take certain actions when we don't even see any tangible results for it. Ayatollah Wahid Khorasani in one of his lectures explained it beautifully.

When an embryo is developing in the womb, it develops limbs, eyes, ears, tongue etc. Now if the embryo was given reasoning it would wonder why it would need eyes while its in the womb as there is nothing to see. Why would tongue be needed, when there is no need to speak? Why digestive system, mouth when its not eating anything from there?

It's only after the embryo becomes a baby and is born that it realizes the importance of all the organs. This world is the same as a mother's womb BUT rather than the development of the physical body, its a place for the development of the soul. Actions like speaking the truth, salat, fasts are all actions that help in the development of the soul for the afterlife. Right now it might me difficult to see what the purpose of saying Salat five times a day is, it would be truly appreciated when one dies and the reality becomes clear.

For example someone who doesn't pray would be blinded because he/she would have failed to perform salat which leads to appreciation of Allah(swt) and his attributes and hence towards the development and recognition of the true master. This recognition would help him/her in the hereafter.

This issue of salat is very important for those who think Ahlul Bayt(s.a) would intercede on their behalf no matter what their action. From a narration of Holy Prophet(pbuh) it's said that one who doesn't value salat would not meet him(pbuh) at the pond of kawthar. Sixth Imam(a.s) has also stated that intercession will not reach the one who pays little value to Salat.

Open your eyes and see the reality of this world before its too late and we are left blinded, mute, deaf and dumb in the hereafter.

Propaganda

http://www.thenews.com.pk/TodaysPrintDetail.aspx?ID=65824&Cat=4&dt=9/4/2011

After reading this above item i have been shocked at the level of propaganda. First shia are killed everyday in the country and then they are the ones that are implicated in crimes. And the funniest thing is that hezb which doesnt have any presence in Pakistan is named here.
And even funnier than that is the fact that while shia are killed everyday, some so called fictional shia group would train shia guys to look banks and create mayhem in Karachi while their brothers and sisters die in Parachinar. None of it makes any sense.

While the terrorists roam free and are freed everyday, victims are made out to be the terrorist. MashAllah at the level of justice in the country!

Characteristics of The Shia

Lately seeing different things i had been contemplating writing on the characteristics of Shia as people these days find it so easy to label everyone a shia. A movie was released in Pakistan where some dancing girls were labeled as being a shia. Does anyone even realize what these 4 words entail?! Today is 19th Ramdhan and i think no day could be better than today to state what Imam Ali(a.s) expected from his followers? Just read on and then determine whether its so easy to call ourselves a shia?


Being a Shia is a concept so comprehensive that it encompasses many responsibilities which have been thoroughly explained by the Infalliables (as), under the banner of “Sifatush Shia” - the characteristics of the Shia.

“O' Muyassir!  Should I not describe to you who our Shia (true followers) are?”  Muyassir replied, “But of course, may I be sacrificed for you (O' Imam).”  The Imam continued: “Unquestionably they (our Shia) are like a fortified stronghold; their chests (hearts) are places that preserve the trusts (given to them such as secrets and private information) and are those who have a firm, dignified intelligence; they do not spread rumors that they are told (by others) and are not strict, severe people; nor are they people who show off. During the night time, they are as monks (they stay up in the night, busy in prayer and the worship of Allah) while during the daytime, they are as lions (active, energetic, and involved in the activities of the world and their community).”

From the characteristics that have been mentioned in the tradition under discussion in relation to the Shia is that they do not get angry. Rather they are people who are full of love and possess the traits of elegance and grace; they have the soul and spirit (of action and speech) of 'Ali b. Abi Talib (as) within themselves. They have the spirit of Imam Ja'far b. Muhammad as-Sadiq (as) and the rest of the Infallible Leaders of true guidance within themselves and thus, they even show love and kindness to their enemies!

ref:http://www.al-islam.org/ethical-discourses-vol1/3.htm

Imam Ja'far b. Muhammad as-Sadiq (as) has said, “Test our Shia during the times of the (five daily) Salat - how do they protect them (the Salat) and (also test our Shia) in relation to our (the Ahlul Bait's) secrets - how do they protect them in relation to our enemies; and (also test our Shia) in relation to their money and wealth - how do they spend it among their fellow brothers.”
Salman b. Mahran said, “I entered into the presence of as-Sadiq (as) while there were a group of people from among the Shia in his company and he said the following to them, 'O' assembly of Shia!  Be a beauty for us (the Ahlul Bait) and do not be a source of embarrassment for us. Speak to the people in good ways and protect your tongues. Save your tongues from speaking things that do not need to be said, and which are detested.”

ref:http://www.al-islam.org/ethical-discourses-vol1/5.htm


Ask yourself this: how many of these characteristics are present in us? Does only saying Ali(a.s) Ali(a.s) make us a shia? Do we not have to translate that love into action? Would Imam Ali(a.s) only want us to say his naras and when it comes time for action use foul language, backbite, gossip, not pray? do you think that would make him happy? His enemies made him sad, and now you with your actions are doing the same? Would you want Imam(a.s) to be sad because of you? Think about this the next time you start sinning!

Independence Day

Yet another 14th August has gone by, it was the 64th Birthday of Pakistan. I feel like writing a lot yet words have gotten stuck in my mind. I dont know what to write, its as if the words are not going to make any difference. Hopelessness has set in, year by year this day passes and we as a nation keep falling. I don't know where to go, where to run?! Can't rid myself of this Pakistaniat(is that a word?) even, it runs deep in my blood! how to become carefree, how to stop caring so that this deep hurt at seeing the nation being destroyed doesnt destroy me as well? Is there a way? Does anyone have a solution?!
*sigh* i am tired of constant political analysis, of hoping things might become better. It has really become unbearable. I see a headache coming, so long for now then. Maybe some miracle!

Can anyone hear?

The noose tightens, the screams ebb
Does anyone hear?
The walls are closing in, the windows are shuttered, darkness is prevailing
The screams bounce off the walls.
Does anyone hear?
These silent screams are killing me from inside, killing the heart...
Does anyone hear? Does anyone care?

Suddenly a ray of light breaks the dark clouds, warms the heart, silences the screams
peace descends.
Someone does care!Someone does hear!

Sentiments of a shia pakistani...

I think these words truly depict how i feel at least. Whenever people ask me about Pakistan i always struggled with an answer BUT finally i found the words that explain all.

Yahan Har Shakhs, Har Pal Target Hone Se Darta Ha [ everyone is afraid of becoming a target]
Khilona Hai Wo Mitti Ka Fana Hone Se Darta Ha  i[he is toy of clay which is afraid to die]

Ghar Ke Kisi Kone Me Ik Masoom Sa Bacha   [an innocent kid in one corner of the house]
Barron Ki Dekh Kar Lashen Bara Hone Se Darta Hai  [is afraid to grow up after seeing the dead bodies of his elders]

Ajab Hai Zindagi Ki Qaid Me Es Sheher Ka Insan  [The person of the city is in a strange trap]
Rihai Mangta Hai Aur Riha Hone Se Darta Ha  [He asks for freedom but is afraid to be free]

Mohabbat Itni Gehri Hai Ke En Weeran Galiyon Se  [ His love is so deep for these lonely streets]
Nikalna Chahta Hai Par Juda Hone Se Darta Hai   [ wants to leave but is afraid of the separation]

Rights and Responsibilities

Whats the most common thing that is heard?

Isn't it usually someone demanding their rights or claiming that they had a right to something but didn't get it?!
Whenever we hear this or say this ourselves, do we stop and consider that have we fulfilled our own responsibilities?!

Allah(swt) create responsibilities and rights in equal proportion. The more the responsibility the more the rights, and vice versa. That's why Prophets(s.a) have more rights over people as their responsibility is also greater. If you feel you have so many rights, then also learn to own up to your responsibility. Try and incorporate this into your life and you might get into lesser conflicts and expect less from people.

It's usually the case that its easier to ask for something than to give! Don't forget the proportionality rule the next time you whine about your rights.

Peer Pressure

I was listening to this noha and some lyrics struck me. They went something like this:

 Marr gayee jiye Hussain(a.s)[They died, Hussain(a.s) lived]

 Jii ker marr gaya Yazeed(l.a) [Yazeed(l.a) died even while being alive]

Ajeeb tarz sey jahan ko dars e bandagi diya[lesson was taught to humanity in a very unique way]

naha kay apnay khoon mein Khuda ka shukar ada kiya[ After being covered in his(a.s) blood hethanked Allah(swt)] 

Tarap tarap kay samnay jawan laal marr gaya[Son died in front of his eyes]

 Ali kay laal nay magar na sir ko apnay kham kiya[But the son of Ali(a.s) did not bow his head]

At face value these words seem normal and simple BUT if you ponder over them they hold a very deep meaning. These words have the potential to change our lives.

It is we who are always pressurized into doing things because of society, friends and family etc. Just look at these words, Imam Hussain(a.s) sacrificed his precious son but still didn't bow his head. He was pressurized in so many different ways, through family, friends, Religion etc. BUT he went ahead with his mission and values. Never once did he look back or think about compromising.

Now lets analyze ourselves, we smoke , we don't wear Hijab, we gossip, we slander, we backbite,we act rude, watch immoral stuff...WHY?? Just because of peer pressure and to look cool.

Is this the lesson taught by Imam Hussain(a.s)??? Read these lines over and over again and try to comprehend what he showed us. Its not the society or its norms that matter, rather its the Happiness of Allah(swt).

As the saying goes sometimes its better to be the exception than the rule! Don't compromise on your values just to please others....its never going to make you happy!

Humbleness

Once a Jew came to Imam Ali(a.s) in time of his khilafat and pointing at his chain mail armor said this is mine. He said he won't leave till Imam Ali(a.s) presented this matter to a judge. Imam(a.s) went with him and the judge seeing the chain mail armor in the hand of the Jew declared it to be his. Imam Ali(a.s) handed the armor to the Jew.
The Jew seeing this fell at the feet of Imam(a.s) and said i just acted this way to see if this is indeed the religion propehsized by Hazart Musa(a.s). And said that this armor is indeed yours, i laid a false claim.

Think about this incident! If this isn't the height of humbleness then what is?! This man who held the khilafat over Rome and Persia. This man about whom the Holy Prophet(pbuh) said that all the prophets are under my banner and this banner is held by Imam Ali(a.s). Imagine...he not only had the spiritual superiority but also this worldly superiority YET he was humble enough to go along with someone when they even laid a false claim.

Can you comprehend this?

Ponder over this and think about it when you feel superior and look down upon people just because you learned 5 things about Islam. Learn a lesson from the life of Imam Ali(a.s) instead of just paying lip service. True love comes not from words BUT from displaying some action!

Ramdhan

Ramdhan Mubarak everyone.

It's a normal concept that in the month of Ramdhan Satan is bound BUT the important thing to ponder over is that why do we still commit sins? Isn't it so that its our nafs that has actually taken the place of Satan? Our nafs has been so much trained by Satan that now it doesnt need its master, rather it compels us to sin all on our own.

Dear brothers and sisters Ramdhan is very important in this regard. This is the time when we can train our nafs and control it rather than have it control us.I know its Ramdhan and everyone's tired so for now i am not going to write something very long.

Just some food for thought about how we can better ourselves. Try to capitalize on this holy month and train yourself. You have 30 days, make good use of it. Don't let it go to waste, we never know if its the last chance we get.

Stay happy and have a blessed month!

CSIH-Confused Sisters In Hijab

I think urban dictionary needs a new entry. My friend Sakina with her creative streak and input by Akbar came out with this very valuable and relevant term for current times.

CSIH-Confused Sisters In Hijab

Characteristics:

1.   Does Hijab but isn’t sure and worries about peer pressure.
2.    Feels it’s not bad to show the front hairline.
3.    Likes see-through scarves.
4.   Thinks it’s ok to wear scarves till shoulders without covering chest.
5.   Loves putting on loads of makeup especially eye makeup.
6.  Puts on Hijab-less pictures on Social networking sites.
7.   Thinks it’s ok to wear short sleeves and/or tight clothes with Hijab.
8.  The famous Mickey Mouse Hijab-where the hair is fully covered yet the ears are adorned with earrings.
9. Believes humps shouldn't be restricted to camels but should be added to hijabs as well...so don't freak out if you see a hugggge hijab.  

So people i hope when you see the next one, recognition would be easier.

Oppressors

I know many of you would object or be amused by this comparison but ideas and guidance could come from any kind of sources. Yesterday i had gone to watch Harry Potter and it made me ponder on the point that what power does the oppressor hold if not for his/her supporters?! If in the movie, no one would have supported Voldermort, would he have managed to wreak the destruction he did, or would he have been resurrected?

There are many kinds of oppressors in this world, some in the world politics, some in the country, some in the community and some even in our homes. Have we ever thought that we might be the ones from whom the oppressors are deriving their power?! Have you ever stopped and considered whose side are you supporting?

Many times we think that we might not be able to make a difference, but just look how one action of lying to Voldermort by Draco's mother helped the cause of Harry. The events might have taken a very different turn if she had told that Harry was alive. So never belittle the power you might have to change the course of history.

We always complain about oppression but BEWARE that it might be you that's providing the lifeline to the oppressor. So please STOP and THINK!

Call of God

Usually whenever we hear the sound of Azaan, we keep on sitting and go pray salat at our time of leisure. This often happens when we have watched our favorite TV shows, talked to friends on phone/internet etc. Have we ever stopped and pondered that what exactly is the sound of azaan? Its a call to us by Allah(swt). As one scholar put it when our cell rings, do we delay in picking up or do we do so at the first bell? Why is it so important to accept the call of a person at the first instant and Allah(swt) call at the most delayed time.

Imagine how much effort people make to meet prime ministers, presidents, high ranking officials etc. So many calls and connections need to be made in order to get just 5 minutes of their time. Imagine how many lines people stand in just to get a chance to meet these people and ask for their need. Now look at Allah(swt), the highest authority, the Creator, yet its his rehmat that he allows us audience with him 5 times a day. What effort do we have to make? Just that...do ablution(wudhu) and stand in front of him. Pray about anything we want. Yet we dont utilize this opportunity. Makes one wonder at our stupidity...doesn't it?! We have a chance to meet the most Powerfull, the Almighty yet we let it go, we don't jump at the opportunity.

Isn't it time we asked ourselves(me including) that what in the world is wrong with us? why can't we see the truth.
O Master of Time, Imam Al-Asr(ajtf) please intercede on our behalf and remove this veil of darkness from our hearts which doesn't let us realize whats the best thing for us...Ameen.

Riyya

Riyya could be termed as the act of trying to show off for others while engaging in worship. Its something that many of us might suffer from while not even being aware. Its a problem and sometimes it scares me to think that after death we might realize that all our worship had been based on riyya.
While reading an article about the life of Aytollah Behjat(r.a) some lines really struck me. Here is the excerpt:

Agha Behjat stated in reply, “Riya is only relevant in acts of worship (‘ibadat). And any act of worship that has riya associated with it is a sin, and it makes the act null and void.
However, riya itself can become a counter and cure for riya, by simply changing the focus of who one is trying to impress! If a man can approach a president to sort out his problem directly, would he waste time in trying to convince the president’s servants? In the same manner, if a man has sense, he would raise his sights from the people, and attempt to impress and perfect his actions for God, who is the Creator of man - this attitude would itself become the cure for his riya.”
At another time, he said, “About riya, there is a hadith that says, “Whoever tries to impress the people by his manner of prayers (salat), will be resurrected in the form of a donkey.” And this is quite true because what can be more donkey-like than a man trying to impress the slaves of God instead of directing his attention to God Himself?! Now, if someone calls us a donkey, we feel insulted, but why should we feel insulted, if night and day our acts resemble those of a donkey?”

ref: Biography of Ayatollah Behjat

Even apart from riyya, we focus too much on what people think, or how they may react to us doing certain things. For example we sometimes nod our heads while people are gossiping just to be part of a group, or we have issue wearing hijab, keeping a beard or giving up music. We worry about the labels people might put on us. But what Ayt. Behjat(r.a) said was so simple, just change the focus. When we are getting the approval of the highest Authority, the one that matters the most, the Creator, Allah(swt) then why do we need to worry about anyone else? If he is happy with us what do others matter?
Please next time someone upsets you, insults you or stereotypes you...just remember that no one's opinion matters except that of Allah(swt). Just make it an aim to please him and no one else.