Day-wise Rewards of Fasting in the month of Ramadhan

Saeed bin Jubair says that he asked Ibne Abbas, "What is the reward of a person who fasts in the month of Ramadan knowing its importance?" He replied, "O Ibne Jubair! Get ready for I am going to narrate such a tradition that you would never have heard with your ears nor it has passed your heart. Get your mind ready for the answer for it is the matter of beginning and the end."

Saeed bin Jubair went away and came back next day at dawn after preparing himself for the answer. After offering Salaat, he reminded Ibne Abbas of the tradition. He looked towards Saeed and said, "Listen carefully to what I say. I have heard the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) say, 'If you had known the reward in the month of Ramadan you would have thanked Allah much more. The Almighty Allah wipes out all the apparent and hidden sins of the people of my Ummah on the first night of Ramadan and increases the position of people by two hundred thousand levels and builds fifty cities in Paradise for them. He grants the reward of worship of one year, the reward of a prophet and the reward of fasting of one year for each step taken on the next day."

Reference:

• Sawaabul A'amaal, English (As-serat Publications)

"Am I the cause of the delay in the re-appearance of my Imam (a.t.f.s.)"

Ali and his family were very pious and religious people, they would visit Islamic Center’s and Masjid’s every Thursday and Friday, they would seldom missed any opportunity as far as “rights of Allah” like performing prayers and other mandatory religious requirements was concerned but the same could not be said when it came to the rights of the oppressed. Not that they did not like to help the oppressed but their “hectic schedule” and “low priority” prevented them from making the necessary effort in that direction.

It was the auspicious night of 15th Shab’an the birth anniversary of Imam Mahdi (ATFS) and Ali was extremely please with himself as he was able to joined the congregation at the Islamic Centre to celebrate the occasion and to perform special prayers, including the supplications invoking Allah (swt) to hasten the advent of Imam Mahdi (ATFS). After staying awake throughout the night in prayers and assuming close proximity of Imam Mehdi (ATFS), he peacefully went to sleep.
Ali woke up on a bright, sunny morning and looked out of the window. It looked like a perfectly normal day, but then he remembered it wouldn’t be as perfect as he would’ve liked it to be. Just this past week, the sun had started rising from the west and setting in the east. The meteorologists at NASA kept saying again and again on the news media that it was only the dust from the severe earthquakes occurring around the world that was causing this outstanding mirage. That it wasn’t the only thing making ‘top headlines’ on the news though. A powerful man was slowly taking over the world under the guise of “war on terror”. Could he be the prophesized “Sufiani” Ali wondered, the evil person appearing before the advent of Imam Mehdi (ATFS) as he sat in his bed trying to remember where he had heard about him before. Was it in one of the Islamic speeches or at “Sunday Madrassa”, Yes, he said to himself  it was at “Sunday Madrassa” that’s where he had heard. But what did they warn us about “Sufiani”? He is a rich, powerful man with plenty of resources. He will buy the high profile people from the Ummah to promote his evil plan while the majority will remain completely oblivious to what is really going on, their primary and only concern would be to satisfy their desires whatever that may be, consumption, sex, love, status, money, etc. In the mean time, Sufiani and his army shall be pulling the strings and profiting from global exploitation with no resistance because the masses were simply mindless zombies.
Ali was just getting ready to get out of bed when he heard a loud voice saying that the one who will rid the world of injustice has come. Just as the voice stopped speaking, Ali heard another voice that spoke to him softly, in a very soothing tone that immediately made him feel very sleepy. “Go back to sleep” it said. “There is no one here your mind is playing tricks on you. Think of how tired you are and how warm your bed is. Go on back to sleep.” Like a fool, Ali listened to the voice and went back to sleep.
The sound of the doorbell woke him up, Ali tried to ignore it but the persistent ringing convinced him that whoever was there was not going away. Finally Ali dragged himself out of the bed to open the door. He saw a handsome young stranger staring at him with kindness. The stranger greeted him in an extremely polite way. Ali usually wouldn’t invite strangers in his house, but something about this man made him to invite him inside. As the stranger stepped in, he said “are you ready to join me in my struggle to spread justice in this world”. On hearing this, Ali was baffled, confused and perplexed, gathering enough courage he asked, “Who are you?” The stranger politely replied, “you always stood-up whenever my name was uttered as a indication of joining me in my struggle, on hearing my name you would place your right hand on your head as a sign of offering your head in my cause” - The time has come, Islam needs your sacrifice in order to restore the justice and peace”. He further continued “I am preparing an army that will help us get rid of these evil people, and restore peace and justice”. On hearing his words, rush of adrenaline soared through Ali’s vein, comprehension dawned on him as he realized that he was in the presence of his Imam. Ali’s knees felt weak as relief washed over him.
Ali replied, “O my Imam, I have patiently waited for you all along during these hard times and I would be highly obliged to join your army if you could solve my simple little problems, you see I just bought my first big house and to pay the “mortgage” for this I and my wife have to work round the clock. The big house without the furniture was worthless so we bought new furniture’s. In this new neighbourhood all my neighbours had new latest car so we got new cars. To watch the annual pilgrimage live from Mecca and “Ashura” live from Karbala we bought new plasma TV, all this recent expenditures has put us in tremendous debt. Than we have this “recurring” expenses of my children’s that are undergoing graduation, can you help me with this small problem. The Imam stood in silence, he did not speak……... 
Ali continued……if my problems could be solve, I would gladly joined you. I know I am sounding similar to my forefathers that left your forefathers stranded before but let me tell you that my forefathers were wrong because they had more time then we have, you see we are terribly swamp at times for weeks together I don’t get time to see my wife or my children’s we just exchange messages on “voice mails” and “emails”. If I had time I would have gladly joined you however I promise you that every evening I will perform additional prayers for your success, please consider me with you spiritually and financially. The Imam looked at Ali walked away towards the door saying, “You are the real cause of my delay, you are still not ready for my mission”.
Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar! Ali opened his eyes, he was jolted awake by the sound of the adhan emanating from his digital alarm clock. He sat up in his bed and looked around his master bedroom. His heart was still beating fast as he realized that it was a tragic dream. A dream that has shattered all his hope, all along he has thought that he was waiting for his Imam but his dream has proved otherwise. He had gathered enough “signs on the appearance” of Imam but failed to meet the “conditions of appearance” he realized how unprepared he was for his Imam’s advent, he cried from the depth of his heart, he fell to the floor crying in shame and saying “O Allah let this tragic dream become wake-up call for my preparation, give me courage and hope to work for the condition that will result in the final uprising of Imam Mahdi (ATFS)”.

Reading Quran

Why do we read Quran, even if we can't understand a Single Arabic word????

 This is a beautiful story.

An old man lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson. Each morning Grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading his Qur'an. His grandson wanted to be just like him and tried to imitate him in every way he could.

One day the grandson asked, 'Grandpa! I try to read the Qur'an just like you but I don't understand it, and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Qur'an do?'

The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and replied, 'Take this coal basket down to the river and bring me back a basket of water.'

 

The boy did as he was told, but all the water leaked out before he got back to the house. The grandfather laughed and said, 'you'll have to move a little faster next time,' and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again. This time the boy ran faster, but again the basket was empty before he returned home. Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was impossible to carry water in a basket, and he went to get a bucket instead. The old man said, 'I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You're just not trying hard enough,' and he went out the door to watch the boy try again.

At this point, the boy knew it was impossible, but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got back to the house. The boy again dipped the basket into river and ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather the basket was again empty. Out of breath, he said, 'See Grandpa, it's useless!'

'So you think it is useless?' The old man said, 'Look at the basket.'

The boy looked at the basket and for the first time realized that the basket was different. It had been transformed from a dirty old coal basket and was now clean, inside and out.

'Son, that's what happens when you read the Qur'an. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read it, you will be changed, inside and out. That is the work of Allah in our lives.'
If you feel this email is worth reading, please forward to your contacts/friends. Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Aliehe Wasalam) says: 'The one who guides to good will be rewarded equally'.

On Collecting Wealth

The Holy Prophet [p.b.u.h.] said: "At the moment when the coffin of a person is being lifted and carried, the concerning soul follows its corpse and regretfully calls: 'O you my children and my relatives! Beware that the world does not cheat you as it did me. I gathered wealth regardless of it being lawful or unlawful and left all of it for others. Now I am left with its burden upon me while they enjoy the fruit of it; therefore, avoid that which is similar to what happened to me'."

Bihar-ul-Anwar, vol. 6, p. 161

 

Imam Amir ul Mu'mineen Ali [a.s.] said: "How many wretched people there are whose days are being numbered but yet they are laboriously seeking wealth."

Ghurar-ul-Hikam, p. 240

THE EFFECTS OF CHARITY!

A famous scholar, Shaykh Muhammad Hadi al-Amini relates that his father once visited his hometown Tabriz and did not meet an old acquaintance of his, who was a poor and needy man.

 

Upon inquiring, he was told that the man he was asking about was now a wealthy man and no longer poor. Shaykh Amini's father decided to pay a visit to his friend.

 

While conversing with his friend he asked his friend the reason for the change in his economic position. The man replied that he had been very poor to the extent that he was forced to sell some properties that belonged to him, like furniture etc. By selling these things he had collected some money enough to start a business with.

 

On his way back to his house with the capital, he saw a poor lady crying. The man asked the lady the reason for crying, and she explained that she was a widow with orphans who were hungry. The man felt pity on her, and on seeing that she needed the money more than himself, he gave the whole amount of money to her. He returned home and spent the night depressed and worried for his family.

 

The next morning, surprisingly he was summoned to the house of a rich man. When he went to the rich man he was told by the rich man that he had six thousand bags of rice which he feared were on the verge of expiring. The rich man suggested to him to buy the rice at a low price on loan from him. The poor man did so and sold the rice bags quickly. He took some more and in this way was able to make much profit. Soon he became rich and well-to-do.

 

Indeed Noble Qur'an says that:

 

Who is it that will offer to Allah a goodly gift, so He will multiply it to him manifold?

and Allah straitens and amplifies, and you shall be returned to Him.

 

Al Baqarah (2): 245

Leakage of the Heart

These days I have been listening to a series of lectures based on the topic of how to become an excellent teacher of Quran. Surprisingly I have learned things which I had not even expected. For example, the concept that external problems or hurdles are not the real obstacle in the way of success . Rather it is our sins which have the most damaging effect on our lives.


This reminded me of the countless times I have told others that I could not do such and such thing or could not complete the target I had in mind because of this problem or that hurdle. Sometimes blaming people, other times crying over health problems, always a string of excuses which are nothing more than that excuses! Because If I had truly wanted to do something and sincerely asked Allah (SWT), then why would he not let me do things which I want to do only for his sake? Surely there must be something wrong inside my own self?

I remember a few years ago I had gone to visit my parents. The next morning there was no water in the taps ... very strange! Because the night before they had got the water tank refilled ... so where did those gallons of water disappear? Plumbers were called and they began digging to find the leakage ... the whole house was in an uproar, with people coming in and out ... nothing else could be done because everything depends on water. Finally the broken pipe was discovered and repaired, the tank was filled again and life restored back to normal.

But when the same story happens with our tank of faith and knowledge; it never becomes an issue of concern. We fill our hearts and minds with the knowledge of Quran and Hadith ... but the next day when we face any situation and open the tap, nothing comes out ... no patience, no gratitude, no kindness with others ... where did all the faith and knowledge go? No body is worried ... no one tries to find the leakage of the heart ...

But we must realize that just as life stops if there is no water, similarly the soul dies if there is no faith ... our very survival depends on it ... so if the faith and knowledge is not coming out in deeds then it means that there is some serious leakage problem.

For me it remained a mystery for many years but Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah), I just found out that every sin for which we do not feel guilty nor do Taubah (Seeking Forgiveness) nor correct it ... then it creates a crack in our heart from where faith keeps dripping out and we don't even realize it.

So whenever we feel lack of motivation, lack of energy, then immediately we should pray to Allah (SWT) to show us where we went wrong and then honestly and sincerely ask Allah (SWT) for forgiveness. So as to mend the crack and ensure that our tank of faith remains full.

May Allah protect us from our self conceit and give us insight with which we might realize our mistakes and correct our ways. Because no one else can do it for us. Each one of us has to be responsible for his own life.

Moral of the Will Power Story: Knowledge and actions are the two arms of Islam. Just as a bird cannot fly without two wings the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (saw) has said: Knowledge without action is a curse and action without knowledge is deviation.

PRIDE OVER ONE’S PIETY - II

Imam Mohammed Baqir (a.s.) says that two persons entered the mosque. One was pious and the other a transgressor. When they emerged from the mosque after the prayer, the transgressor was pious and the person with piety had turned a transgressor. The reason was that the pious person came out of the mosque with pride at his piety and the transgressor was penitent at his past misdeeds.

 

For the benefit of the readers, the translator is digressing here with a tale:

 

One day Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) was passing through a barren hill. He noticed a pious person busy in prayer sitting in a cave of the hill. Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) felt the urge to meet and talk to the person. He went near and greeted him. The pious person asked disinterestedly, "Who are you?" Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) said, "I am Moosa (a.s.)!"

·         The person asked, " Are you the Prophet Moosa (a.s.)?"

·         Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) said, "Yes!"

·         The person said," Then ask Allah to Grant my wish!"

·         Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) asked, "What is it that you want?"

·         The person said, "Since the last one hundred years I am sitting here praying to Allah. I don't do anything other than the Prayer. Ask Allah, what He will give me for my efforts?"

·         Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) said, " I shall find about it immediately." He immediately climbed up the hill and called aloud, " O Sustainer Allah! This person wants to know about the reward for his prayers! Tell me, what shall I inform him?"

·         He heard the sound, " O Moosa (a.s.)! Tell him, we shall inform him about his reward tomorrow."

·         Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) went to the person and conveyed the message to him

·         The pious man said, " It's fine! Tomorrow is not much of a time!" The pious person was in the habit of going to a nearby canal early every morning for bathing and fetching some water for his use. Therefore, the next morning too he started for the canal but he lost his way and reached somewhere else. Because of the sun's heat he became very thirsty and tired. He sat on a lonely boulder and started thinking about his death. In that time he found a person coming from the other direction. He waved to the person to come to him. When the person came nigh, he asked him to help him with some water.

·         The man said, " Where is any water in this wilderness? Whatever little I have is only for me."

·         The pious person started crying. The other person said, "Fine! What will you give me if I give you a tumbler of water?"

·         The pious man said, " I don't have anything. I have been busy in the cave praying for the last one hundred years."

·         The man said, " If you agree to transfer to me the Rewards for your prayers of one hundred years, I shall give you a tumbler of water."

·         The pious man thought, if he lived, he could pray for a further period to get the Reward from Allah. He said, " I am ready to transfer to you my reward for the hundred years' of my prayers.

·         The man gave him a tumbler full of water and the pious person returned to his cave.

·         In the morning Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) got a Revelation that the pious person transferred his hundred years' prayers to another person in exchange for a tumbler of water. Ask the man to settle the value of the tumblers of water that he had been drinking during the last hundred years!

·         Therefore, Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) went to the cave and told to the person that he had a message for him from Allah.

·         The man said, : O Prophet (a.s.)! I have already sold my hundred years of penance!"

·         Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) said, " Yes! I know. But Allah has said that when the value of one hundred years of prayer is one tumbler of water, then he must settle the value of the water he had been drinking over the last hundred years."

·         When the pious person heard this, he was shocked and shouted, " O Prophet (a.s.)! Recommend to Allah to forgive my sins! Allah is Beneficent and Merciful!"

·         Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) got the Revelation, " tell the pious person! Your penitence of this moment pleased us more than your prayers of a hundred years and we have given to you rewards for a thousand years of prayers!".

 

AINAL HAYAT by Allama Majlisi : CHAPTER 8 -THE TRAITS-QASAIL

PRIDE OVER ONE’S PIETY

Being proud about ones own piety is a major sin. This pride can make all the prayers and supplications void. If a person understands the Greatness of Allah, then he will not be proud and vain at his exertions at prayer. The endowments of the munificent Allah are so great that it is impossible to count His Blessings.

Imam Moosa Kazim (a.s.) says, " O Son! Don't delay in offering your prayers. Nor should you be over-confident of the acceptance of your prayers and feel proud of your efforts at piety. We cannot offer prayers and obedience to Allah commensurate with His Blessings.

 

Imam Reza (a.s.) says that a pious person from Bani Israel offered intense prayers for forty years. Then he offered a sacrifice to Allah that was not accepted. The person was disconsolate with sadness for his failure. He cursed his psyche blaming it for his failure. He received a Revelation that blaming his psyche and accepting the shortcomings pleased Allah more than the prayers spread over the long period of forty years. For this reason Allah accepted his long years of penance..

 

AINAl HAYAT by Allama Majlisi : CHAPTER 8 -THE TRAITS-QASAIL

Three Tough Questions !!

There was a young man who went overseas to study for quite a long time.
When he returned, he asked his parents to find him a religious scholar or
any expert who could answer his 3 Questions. Finally, his parents were able
to find a Muslim scholar.

Young man: Who are you? Can you answer my questions?

Scholar: I am one of Allah (SubHana Wa Ta`ala )'s slaves and
Insha-Allah (God willing), I will be able to answer your questions.

Young man: Are you sure? A lot of Professors and experts were not able
to answer my questions.

Scholar: I will try my best, with the help of Allah(SubHana Wa Ta`ala).

Young Man: I have 3 questions:
     1. Does God exist? If so, show me His shape.
     2. What is thaqdir (fate)?
     3. If shaitan (Devil) was created from the fire, why at the end
he will be thrown to hell that is also created from fire. It certainly
will not hurt him at all, since Shaitan (Devil) and the hell were created
from fire. Did God not think of it this far?

Suddenly, the Scholar slapped the young man's face very hard.

Young Man (feeling pain): Why do you get angry at me?

Scholar: I am not angry. The slap is my answer to your three questions.

Young Man: I really don't understand.

Scholar: How do you feel after I slapped you?

Young Man: Of course, I felt the pain.

Scholar: So do you believe that pain exists?

Young Man: Yes.

Scholar: Show me the shape of the pain!

Young Man: I cannot.

Scholar: That is my first answer. All of us feel God's existence
without being able to see His shape... Last night, did you dream that you will
be slapped by me?

Young Man: No.

Scholar: Did you ever think that you will get a slap from me, today?
Young Man: No.

Scholar: That is takdir (fate) my second answer........ My hand that I
used to slap you, what is it created from?

Young Man: It is created from flesh.

Scholar: How about your face, what is it created from?

Young Man: Flesh.

Scholar: How do you feel after I slapped you?

Young Man: In pain.

Scholar: Thats it. this is my third answer, Even though Shaitan Devil)
and also the hell were created from the fire, if Allah wants, insha-Allah
(God willing), the hell will become a very painful place for Shaitan

Beautiful Sayings from Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s.)

Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s.) says:

• Indeed, generosity & charity has a quantity, so when it exceeds that it becomes spending lavishly (squandering). And so does forsightedness & caution have a limit & when it exceeds that, then it is cowardice. [Beharul Anwar, vol 78, pg 377]

• The sustenance which has become guaranteed (by Allah) must not refrain & make you so busy so that you do not perform the obligatory practices. [Beharul Anwar, vol 78, pg 374]

Reference :

1. Fascinating Discourses of Fourteen Infallibles, Traditions of Imam Hasan al-Askari (a.s.), Hadees 27,32.

The Shias of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)

One of the traditions concerning the position of the Shias and the lovers of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) states that the fire of Hell cannot scorch them. Thus, these types of traditions impart strength to our hope. Our love for the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) is certainly a surety for us but it should not tempt us to commit sins blatantly. 

Shia and Mohib

The traditions regarding this subject are based on two important points. The first is concerned with 'Shia' and the second 'Mohibs' (Admirers) of the Holy Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). The position and status of those Shias who have achieved excellence in the field of knowledge and good deeds is definitely higher. Even so, such people did not consider themselves fit to be called the Shias of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). Take the example of Muhammad bin Muslim Thaqafi. He was the honourable companion (Sahaabi) of Imam Muhammad Baqir (a.s.) and Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.). Both the Holy Imams (a.s.) have recommended him to the Shias for solving their religious problems. Muhammad bin Muslim Thaqafi has also been mentioned as the greatest Jurist of his time in the books of Rijal (Chain of narrators).

On one occasion Muhammad bin Muslim along with Abu Karibatul Azdi went to see Qazi Shareek. Shareek glared at him in anger and said, "These two are Ja'fari and Fatimi!" [Shias of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)]. Upon hearing this, both of them began to cry bitterly. When the Qazi enquired the reason for their lamentation, they replied, "You have associated us with such a lofty personality [Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.)]!. Are people like us who lack in piety and abstinence to be compared with such an exalted person? What connection does the dust have with the Divine existence? (A Persian saying). We shall be highly obliged to you if you can accept our request (and give us not the title that we do not deserve)." 

The True Shias are Those Who Follow (Obey) the Imams (a.s.)

Yes, we can give the title of 'Shia' to that individual who follows the Imams (a.s.) in all aspects of character and speech. Thus, Bab-ul-Hawaij Imam Musa al-Kazim (a.s.) says:
"Our shias are only those who follow us (in every respect), walk in our footsteps and imitate our actions."
(Behaarul Anwaar) 

Conversation of Ali (a.s.) With Some Shias

On a certain evening Ali (a.s.) was departing from the mosque. The surroundings were bright due to the moonlight. He saw behind him a group of people walking towards him. He enquired as to who they were? They said: "We are your Shias." Ali (a.s.) looked at their faces carefully and said.

"Why is it that your faces do not exhibit any sign of you being a Shia?".

"Master, what are the signs of a Shia?"

"Their faces are pale due to excessive worship and the fear of Allah, their backs are bent due to prolonged prayers, too much fasting causes their abdomen to touch their backbones, their lips become dry be repeating endless invocations, and their hearts are filled with the fear of Allah."
(Behaarul Anwaar, Al-Irshad).
Now I shall quote three traditions for the benefit of the readers:

Mere Claim is not Sufficient

1) Jabir (a.r.) relates from Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.) that he said,
"Is it sufficient for one to associate himself with Shiaism and say that, "I am a lover of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.)? By Allah, our Shia is not, but the one who fears Allah and obeys His Commands."
(Al-Kafi)

2) Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.) told Mufazzal bin Umar,
"If you wish to see one of our devotees then look for that person who abstains from sins and fears more His Creator and remains hopeful of His reward. Whenever you find such an individual then take it for granted that he is one of my devotees."

3) Isa bin Abdulla Qummi entered in the presence of Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.). The Imam said,
"That person is not from us nor do we hold him in esteem, the one who, if he lives in a town of a population of hundred thousand and there is even one non-Shia who is more pious than him."
(Al-Kafi).

Thus the belief, actions and the piety of the Shias of Ahlul Bayt (a.s.) should be such that they should be the best and none should excel them. Allah has defined such people 'Khairul Bareeya' in the Holy Qur'an:
"(As For) those who believe and do good, surely they are the best of men."
(Surah Bayyanah 98:7)

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is reported to have explained that 'Khairul Bareeya' connotes the Shias of Ali (a.s.):
"O Ali, 'Khairul Bareeya' means you and your Shias. On the Day of Judgement, they would be satisfied with what Allah has bestowed upon them and they shall be liked by Allah. (Tafseer Tabarsi, Manaqib Khwaarazmi, Ibne Hajar).

No Intercession for Those Who Regard Namaz Unimportant

Making light of Salaat is counted among the Greater Sins. It is mentioned in some reports that the one who considers the prayers unimportant is not eligible for intercession. 

Thus Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.) said:
"Our intercession is not for those who consider the Prayers unimportant." 

Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.) said:
"Our intercession is not for those who considered the Prayers lightly."
(Behaarul Anwaar vol.3) 

It is related from the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) that he said:
"One who considers prayers unimportant is not from me. By Allah, he is not from me. By Allah, he cannot reach near me at the Haudh-e-Kauthar." (the cistern in Paradise)
(Beharul Anwaar) 

The above discussion makes it evident that not avoiding sins, committing sins blatantly and then repenting in the hope of intercession is foolishness and a sign of arrogance and negligence.

Death is of Three Types

Imam Muhammad Taqi (a.s.) has related from his forefathers that Amirul Momineen Ali (a.s.) was queried by someone about death. He replied,
"You have come to the knowledgeable (personality)." "Death occurs to a person in one of the three ways:
He is given the good news of everlasting bounties, or informed of the never-ending retribution or he remains in a perpetual state of terror and fear. His affair remains undecided and unpredictable, and it is not known about the kind of future that awaits him. Then (you must know) that our devotee who is obedient of our command and does not sin, is given the good news of everlasting bounties. But our opponent shall forever be involved in Divine punishment. And the person who has been unjust to his soul and who has abused it will be found in an unsure condition. Unaware of what the future will hold. Such a person is a sinner whose death will be accompanied with terror and fear. But Allah will not consider him on the same level as our enemy. Rather he would be removed from Hell because of our intercession.

Then, act (rightly) and obey the commandments of Allah. Do not consider the Divine punishment to be trifle, and certainly there are such people who would not be able to receive our intercession till after 3,00,000 years."(Behaarul Anwaar vol.3 quoted from Ma'aniul Akhbaar) 

I am Concerned About You Regarding Barzakh

Umar ibne Yazid says that, "I asked Imam Ja'far as-Sadiq (a.s.), "I have heard you saying that all our Shia's will enter Heaven however sinful they may be?" Imam replied,
"By Allah I had truly said, they shall all belong to Heaven."

Then I asked, "May my life be sacrificed upon you, even if their sins are great and in large number?" Imam said,
"All of you (Shias) shall enter Paradise by the intercession of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) or his successors on the Day of Judgement. But, by Allah I fear for you the Barzakh."

I asked,"What is Barzakh?"

He replied,
"Barzakh is the grave. Its duration commences from the time of death until the Day of Judgement."
(Al Kafi) 

Tears of Blood

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) called the attention of Ibne Masud and imparted some advice to him. He said in this regard.

"Never imagine a sin to be trifle and small and abstain from the Greater Sins, because, on the Day of Judgement, when the slave beholds his sins, tears of blood and puss shall flow from his eyes. At that moment Allah shall say, "This is the day when everyone shall see his good or bad deeds, and wish there be a great distance between them and their sins."
(Behaarul Anwaar vol.17) 

It is also related from the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) that he said,
"Verily, a person shall be kept imprisoned in Hell for a hundred years for each of the sins (that he commits)."
(Al-Kafi)

Intercession

A person who commits a Greater Sin and does not repent for it, is a transgressor. Namaz is not allowed behind him (he cannot lead a prayer assembly). His testimony is unacceptable. After death, he is liable for Divine punishment. By the Grace of Allah such a person may yet get salvation; and the Grace of Allah that can make this possible is the intercession of Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) and his Progeny (a.s.). 

As the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) says in one of his traditions:
"My intercession has been kept for the sinful among my followers."
(Behaarul Anwaar vol.3). 

He (s.a.w.s.) also said,
"My intercession is specially for the sinful ones among my followers. But those who abstain from the Greater Sins, for them there is no accounting (of deeds)."

That is, they would be admitted to Paradise right away. 

Intercession Should not Prompt one to Commit Sins

There is hardly any doubt regarding the reality of Shafa'at (intercession). Actually it is the right bestowed upon the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and the purified Imams (a.s.), by Allah, to show their greatness and position. The other aim of intercession is to make their respect evident. The people who have committed Greater Sins shall be entrusted to them. By the grace of their intercession the sinful people will be able to ascend the heights like other groups of people. All this is evident from the Holy Qur'an and the authentic reports. It is also clear from Mutawatir (most frequently related) traditions. It would be needless to relate all such traditions for such a short discussion.

Only one point must be stressed at this stage. Intercession should not be taken as a license for committing sins nor should it make one heedless of repentance. 

Suicide in the Hope of Salvation

To sin and not to repent in the hope of intercession is akin to consuming poison or putting ones hand in the snake's mouth with the hope that a doctor would arrive and cure you. It is against logic, because after consuming poison it cannot be taken for granted that medical assistance would be available. Even if a doctor and medicines arrive on time it is still difficult to say that life would be saved. Before the medicine could have any effect the poison may spread to the whole body and death may occur.

In the same way, one who performs lewd actions in the hope that he would be interceded after death; cannot be sure that intercession will come to the rescue immediately.

I wonder...

I wonder how a person can be happy, who is certain of death.

I wonder at a person who is certain of reckoning

(the Day of Judgement), but still accumulates wealth.

I wonder at a person who is certain of going into the grave,

but still smiles without concern.
I wonder at a person who is certain of this world's doom,

but still has tranquillity in loving this world.

I wonder at a person who is certain of the hereafter and its bounties
but he still rests.

I wonder at a person who is knowledgeable in his speech,

BUT ignorant in his heart.
I wonder at a person who cleans him/herself with water,

but does not cleanse his heart.

I wonder at people who look for bad points in others,

but ARE unaware of the same in themselves.

I wonder at a person who knows that Almighty Allah is aware of his
actions, but still commits sins.
I wonder at a person who preaches to the people,

but does not preach to his own soul.
I wonder at a person who knows that he/she will die alone,

go into the grave alone & give accounts alone,

but is still totally engrossed with
people who will not be able to help him/her.

Reference: Al Hadith al Qudsi - A Word of Allah, Ansariyan

Parents

Allah, the Wise, has said:

فَلاَ تَقُل لَهُما اُفٍّ وَ لاَ تَنْهَرهُما

Say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them.

[Holy Qur'an, ch. Al-Israa (17), vs. 23.]

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) said:

بِرُّ الْواَلِدَينِ اَفضَلُ مِنَ الصَّلاةِ وَ الصَّومِ وَ الْحَجِّ وَ الْعُمْرَةِ وَ الْجِهاَدِ فِی سَبِيلِ اللهِ

Kindness towards parents is better than prayers, fasts, Hajj, U'mrah and jihad in the path of Allah.

[Jaame' al-Sa'adaat, vol. 2, pg. 264.]

Short Explanation

In (several places in) the Qur'an, God has spoken about the very subtle issue of 'kindness towards the parents', attaching such immense importance to it that He has even said: Say not to them (so much as) "Ugh" nor chide them, and speak to them a generous word.

It is evident from this that it is not only forbidden to annoy parents in any way but it is obligatory to exhibit goodness and kindness towards them.  People who hurt their parents, even occasionally, must seek their forgiveness and happiness before they suffer the evil consequences. They should remember that their children, in turn, would ill-treat them too.

As for the repercussions in the Hereafter, the holy Prophet has said that if for every instance of hurting others one door of Hell opens up for man, then two doors of Hell will open up for he who causes inconvenience to his parents.

The Truthful Barber

The distinguished scholar, Sheikh Baqir Kadhimi, who lived near Najaf-e-Ashraf, narrates that a truthful barber, once related the following story:

I had an old father, whom I served diligently.  I exercised such great care never to be neglectful towards him, that I would even place water for him in the toilet and remain in wait outside till he emerged.  All throughout (the week) I would be watchful of him, except on Wednesday evenings when I would proceed to Masjid-e-Sahlah hoping to meet Imam Mahdi (a.s.).

One Wednesday I was very busy and did not find a spare moment until it was almost sunset.  Nevertheless, I set off towards Masjid-e-Sahlah alone in the dark.

It was a moonlit night and I still had one third of the journey to cover when suddenly I observed an Arab, seated on a horse, coming towards me.  I said to myself, "This Arab is surely going to loot me", but when he had come closer, he spoke in the local dialect, and sought to know where I was heading for.

I told him that I intended to go to Masjid-e-Sahlah, whereupon he inquired if I had anything with me to eat. When I replied that I did not, he spoke with some sternness, and said:

"You have some food in your pocket".

Putting my hand into my pocket, I found some raisins, which I had purchased for my son but had forgotten to give him.

The Arab then said:  "I recommend you to serve your father", and, repeating this three times, he suddenly disappeared.

It was only later that I realized that it was Imam Mahdi (a.s.) himself that I had seen and that he was not pleased that I stopped serving my father, even for the purpose of going to Masjid-e-Sahlah on Wednesday evenings.

Reference:

• Anecdotes For Reflection (Published by World Federation), Vol 1, Parents, Anecdote 4

Sickness

Allah, the Wise, says:

وَ اِذاَ مَرِضْتُ فَهُو يشْفِينِ

 And when I am sick, then He restores me to health.

[Holy Qur'an, ch. Al-Shua'raa (26), vs. 80]

Ameeral Momineen (a.s.) has said:

 اَشَدُّ مِنَ الْفاَقَةِ مَرَضُ الْبَدَن

More calamitous than poverty is the sickness of the body.

[Nahjul Balaghah]

 

Short Explanation

One of the treasures of Paradise, which reaches a Mu'min in this world, is sickness.  If a Mu'min, occasionally and unintentionally, falters and commits sins, Allah does not like him to return to Him carrying the burden of his sins; He thus afflicts him with illness in order that his sins are forgiven.

A person who suffers from illness, beseeches and supplicates to Allah to restore his good health and Allah likes this state of a sick person, for He desires His servant to converse and communicate with Him.  At times, Allah afflicts a person with sickness in order to elevate him in spiritual rank and status.

The best amongst those who are ill is one who exercises patience in this suffering, conceals his pain and desists from complaining about his disease to others until he regains his health and acquires the maximum reward ordained for him.

 

The Rank of a Worshipper who Suffers from Illness

One day, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) raised his head towards the heavens and then laughed.  One of his companions asked him the reason for his laughter to which the Prophet (s.a.w.) replied saying:

"My laughter was out of my astonishment.  Two angels had descended from the heavens to record the deeds of a righteous Mu'min. They always found him on his prayer mat, engaged in worship, but this time, they noticed that he was not there.  He was in his bed, having been afflicted with sickness.  They ascended towards the heavens and said to Allah: "O' Lord! We did not find Your servant in his usual place of worship but instead, found him lying on his bed in a state of sickness."
 

Allah said to them:  "Until he regains his health, record for him all acts of worship and deeds of goodness that he used to perform when healthy.  It is necessary for Us, for as long as he remains in the captivity (of sickness), to grant him rewards of all the good deeds that he used to perform, when possessing soundness of health". 

Reference:

• Anecdotes for reflection, Vol 1, Sickness, Anecdote 1

On Reliance and Trust in Allah (s.w.t.) [Tawakkol]

Imam Mohammad al-Baqir (a.s) [Alaihis Salaam : Peace be upon him]

"The most deserving person is one who trusts in Allah, and has recognized Allah. Anyone who is pleased with what Allah has destined for him shall receive it, and Allah will grant him a great reward! But if anyone is not pleased with what Allah has destined for him shall receive that which Allah has destined for him, but Allah will cancel his reward."
Imam Mohammad al-Baqir (a.s)

"Whoever relies on Allah will never be defeated, and whoever takes refuge in Allah will never fail."

Reference :

Mishkatul Anwaar, Chapter 4, Hadees 42,45.

Misfortunes

Allah, the Wise, has said:

And as for man, when his Lord tries him, then treats him with honor and makes him lead an easy life, he says: My Lord has honoured me.

[Holy Qur'an, surah Al-Fajr (89), ayat 15]

 

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.) has said:

Surely, misfortune for an oppressor is a (corrective) chastisement and for a Mu'min, a trial.

[Jaame' al-Akhbaar, pg. 113]

 

Short Explanation

For someone possessing intellect, misfortunes are a means of ornamentation and esteem.  Exercising forbearance when faced with misfortune and being steadfast during trials, strengthens one's faith.

One who bears hardship with patience, shall acquire the Grace of Allah and, as dictated by the Divine Wisdom, shall attain salvation and comfort, either in this world or in the hereafter.

From within the flames of misfortune and calamity, emerge the esoteric lights.  A person who regards misfortune and calamity as a trial, and combats it successfully, will become that much wiser as a result of the extra knowledge and perception acquired.   It is not good practice to constantly complain of worldly misfortunes like poverty, illness, family problems, and so on.

 

A Long Life is Associated with Misfortunes

It has been reported that once Jibraeel (peace be upon him) approached Prophet Sulaiman (a.s.), bringing with him a bowl containing the Water of Life and said to him: Your Lord has given you the choice that if you so choose, you can drink this water and remain alive till the Day of Judgment.

Sulaiman (a.s.) placing this issue before a group of men, jinn and animals, consulted them and all of them recommended him to consume the water so that he could become eternal.

Sulaiman (a.s.), after some reflection realized that he had not conferred with the porcupine and so sent a horse to call him, but the porcupine did not arrive.  He then sent a dog after him, whereupon he arrived immediately!

Sulaiman (a.s.) said to him, "Before I confer with you about my issue, I would like to know why, when I sent the horse, the most honorable of all animals after man, you did not arrive, but when I sent the dog, the most vile of all the animals, you presented yourself immediately?" 

The porcupine replied, "The horse, in spite of being an honorable animal, does not possess loyalty, whereas the dog, despite being the most despicable, possesses it; if it receives a loaf of bread from someone, it would remain loyal to him all throughout its life."

Sulaiman (a.s.) then said, "A bowl containing the Water of Life has been sent to me and I have been given the choice of either accepting it or refusing it.  All the others have advised me to drink it in order that I become eternal."

The porcupine said, "Is this Water of Life only for you or are your children, family and friends permitted to consume it too?"

He said, "No!  It is solely for me."

The porcupine then advised, "It is advisable that you do not accept it, for when you acquire a long life, all your children, relatives and friends shall depart before you, every passing day bringing you face to face with misfortune and sorrow thereby making your life miserable for you. Sulaiman (a.s.) approved of this advice and heeding it, returned the Water of Life.

 

Reference:

• Anecdotes for reflection, Vol 1, Misfortune, Anecdote 5

How to create khuzu wa khushu?

Imam Jafar e Sadiq (a.s.) was asked by someone,

" O son of the Prophet! How to create khuzu wa khushu (humility and fear of Allah) in prayer?"

The Imam (a.s.) replied," During prayer keep your eyes focussed on the point where you prostrate with your forehead."

Again someone asked the Imam (a.s.) the same question and he told him that during the prayer he should have the thought in his mind that he might die immediately after the prayer.

 

After some more days another person asked the Imam the same question. The Imam said that during the prayer the person should concentrate on the thought that he is witnessing Allah; but since Allah does not have any physical appearance, He cannot be seen with the eyes. The thought must be there during the prayer that Allah is looking at the worshipper.

 

A thought comes to the mind that the Holy Imam (a.s.), instead of giving three different replies, could have given only one reply, which he thought was the best. But this thinking is wrong. As a matter of fact, the Imam was replying to every individual keeping his capability in mind. The reply given to the third and the last person is for the knowledgeable, and the most knowledgeable are the Infallible members of the Prophet's progeny. They are on record praying to Allah thus, " We have not been able to justify Your Mystic knowledge.(ma arafnak haq marafatak)

 

 AINAL HAYAT by Allama Majlisi : CHAPTER 2 -THE STEPS