SeekersHub's Free Islamic Podcast

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains Surat al-Masad from the Qur'an, highlighting the central themes of reverence (ta`dhim) for the symbols of Allah--such as the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), Qur'an, and Guidance; and the dangers of arrogance, anger, and haste.

Using classical commentaries on the Qur'an--including Ibn Ajiba, Qurtubi, and Abu's Su`ud--Shaykh Faraz explains the context of this Sura; its place in the life of the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk); and, uniquely, central lessons we can learn from this Divine rebuke for our own lives.

111. SURAT al-MASAD

(1) May the hands of Abu Lahab be ruined! May he be ruined too!
(2) Neither his wealth nor his gains will help him:
(3) he will burn in the Flaming Fire ––
(4) and so will his wife, the firewood-carrier,
(5) with a palm-fibre rope around her neck.

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Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, of SeekersHub Toronto (http://www.SeekersHub.org) explains a chapter of the Qur'an that the Prophet ﷺ described as being, "A third of the Qur'an."

Shaykh Faraz begins by explaining some of the virtues of Surat al-Ikhlas, and why it is so central to the message of Islam. He then details the context of revelation--and how this Sura was revealed both in Mecca and Medina.

Going through this Sura, Shaykh Faraz explains the meanings of the Divine Name (Allah), and Allah's Names "the Unique" (al-Ahad) and--most critically, in understanding the significance of this Sura and in understanding the distinguishing Islamic understanding of God's Oneness--"the Independent/Eternal/Self-Sufficient/Perfect/Absolute" (al-Samad).

The final two verses then detail the implications of these two distinguishing Divine Names, and emphasize the absolute distinctness and dissimilarity of God.

Shaykh Faraz closes with an important explanation of mainstream Islamic understanding of transendence (tanzih); how unclear verses are understood in light of the clear and decisive verses; how one answers the questions of children and others about Allah; and how all Allah's Attributes are understood from this brief Sura--either by the expression of its text, or by indication, allusion, or implication.

This is an important lesson for anyone seeking to understand a central sura of the Qur'an, and serves as a comprehensive yet concise introduction to the principles of Islamic beliefs (aqida). There are many points of clarification and benefit in it for seekers of knowledge, as well.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani is Executive Director and Senior Instructor at SeekersHub Global (http://www.SeekersGuidance.org), and teaches at SeekersHub Toronto (http://www.SeekersHub.org).

All SeekersHub Global courses and educational services are offered *completely free*, as part of the Knowledge Without Barriers initiative.

Consider supporting and encouraging others to support the SeekersHub Global Bricks and Mortars campaign, to help us sustain and build our capacity to spread free and open access to Islamic Knowledge Without Barriers. Every contribution, even small, helps: http://seekersguidance.org/donate/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page; by searching for SeekersHub in iTunes; or from http://seekershub.podomatic.com

In this lesson at ICNYU, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains key aspects of love. He begins by asking what "love" is, and what "true love" is. Then, he relates love to the five aspects of the human reality (ego, caprice, intellect, heart, and soul), showing how love can arise from any of these five realities--and explains how they interact with each other.

After this, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani touches upon what is means to "love for Allah," which is the distinguishing characteristic of true believers. This "love for Allah" has two aspects: loving for Allah Himself, and loving others "for Allah." Thus, the believer loves others, intensely, yet this love is pure, true love: it is meant to be an expression and pursuit of love for Allah Himself.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani is Executive Director and Senior Instructor at SeekersHub Global (http://www.SeekersGuidance.org) and teachers at SeekersHub Toronto (http://www.SeekersHub.org).

Find out more about the Islamic Center at New York University (ICNYU): http://www.icnyu.org/ and the work of their excellent Chaplain, Imam Khalid Latif: http://twitter.com/KLatif

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Allah (Mighty and Exalted) says, “My love is incumbent for those who love each other for Me; who sit together for Me; who visit each other for Me; and who spend on each other for Me.”

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explained a beautiful hadith qudsi--Divine words inspired to and related by the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him)--on the tremendous reward of loving others purely for the sake of Allah. This hadith also highlights qualities of those beloved to Allah, the spiritual consequences of loving for Allah, and the centrality of love in Islam.

Imam Malik related in the Muwatta that Abu Idris al-Khawalani reports: I entered the Damascus Mosque and found a young man of radiant teeth around whom people had gathered. If they disagreed about anything, they would refer to him and follow his opinion. It was said: This is Mu`adh ibn Jabal.

The next day, I went early but found that he had reached before me and was praying. I waited for him to finish his prayer and came to him, facing him. I greeted him and then said:

“By Allah, I love you for the sake of Allah!” He said: By Allah? I said: “By Allah!” He asked: “By Allah?” I replied: “By Allah!” He again asked: “By Allah?” I replied again: “By Allah!”

He then took my garment from its lower end and pulled me to him, saying: Be of glad tidings, for I have heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) say that,

Allah (Mighty and Exalted) says, “My love is incumbent for those who love each other for Me; who sit together for Me; who visit each other for Me; and who spend on each other for Me.”

----

Four key qualities of those who love for Allah are mentioned in this hadith:
(1) “Love each other for Me”
(2) “Sit together for Me”
(3) Visit each other for Me”
(4) “Spend on each other for Me”

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains how to realize each of these qualities, practically, in our key relationships.

This is from a lesson conducted at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org | 2355 Royal Windsor Dr, Unit 10, Mississauga, ON L5J 1K6 | http://g.co/maps/48urh) SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs -- all classes are completely free and open. All welcome!

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Shaykh Faraz Rabbani shares powerful, practical lessons on living the beauty and excellence of Prophetic character through explanation of ten lines from the Imam Busiri's poem on the Prophet, al-Hamziyya. (Lines 125-135)

These lines summarize the dazzling perfections, beauty, and virtue of the Prophetic character, and Shaykh Faraz touches upon how to bring this excellence into our lives through practical examples and commentary.

Imam Busiri states:

Every quality of his that you mention / He encompasses it in meaning
A master whose laughter was smiling, whose walking / was dignified & whose sleep was light
His character was but a sweet breeze / And his countenance but a rich garden
All mercy, determination, & resolve / With dignity, guardedness, & modesty
Hardship would never find him without patience / Not would joyous matters find him without dignity
His self was noble, so ill would / not occur to his heart, nor vileness
God’s blessings upon him were great / Making other great ones seem small
His people acted ignorantly with him and he overlooked / For the way of the forbearant is to overlook
He encompassed all creation in knowledge & forbearance / So he’s an ocean, unaffected by what they threw at him
He considered your world so paltry you can’t / Ascribe holding back to him, nor giving
A sun of virtue, conviction affirms that / he is the sun in rank and radiance

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani is Executive Director of Seekers Hub Global (www.SeekersGuidance.org) and teaches in Toronto at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org).

All SeekersHub/SeekersGuidance courses and educational programs are completely free: Do consider supporting the SeekersHub Global Bricks and Mortars campaign, to help us sustain and build our capacity to spread free and open access to Islamic Knowledge Without Barriers. Every contribution, even small, helps: http://seekersguidance.org/donate/

Religion revolves around respect and reverence. Surat al-Hujurat summarizes the keys to true religion by outlining the right adab with Allah, His Messenger (peace be upon him), and with Allah's creation. In just 18 verses, believers are given a clear roadmap on how to walk the Straight Path with excellence in conduct and attitude.

In Surat al-Hujurat: A Call to Excellence in Relations, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains some of the numerous lessons of this Surah--so that we can improve our conduct, understanding, and attitude, and gain clear guidance in walking the Straight Path with excellence.

This lesson is an introduction and overview of the entire Surah. You can follow this lesson on Friday nights (7.30 pm Toronto time) in person at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org | 2355 Royal Windsor Dr, Unit 10, Mississauga, ON L5J 1K6 | http://g.co/maps/48urh) or live online at from our Online Classroom (at www.SeekersHub.org). For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

BTW: Do consider supporting and encouraging others to support the SeekersHub Global Bricks and Mortars campaign, to help us sustain and build our capacity to spread free and open access to Islamic Knowledge Without Barriers. Every contribution, even small, helps: http://seekersguidance.org/donate/

In the weekly circle of remembrance at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explained the words of Abu Madyan, a great spiritual master (d. 594 AH / 1179 CE), who said, "Chivalry (futuwaa) is not allowing creation to busy you from the Creator."

Shaykh Faraz explained who the spiritual roots of the "ugly Islam"--such as the actions of those who destroy the graves of great scholars, or who react in ugly ways to deliberate provocations (whether cartoons or films about the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace))--are rooted in a loss of the spiritual axis around which true religion revolves.

This spiritual axis is rooted in certitude, and manifest in excellence and beauty in both action and response. This is the essence of true chivalry (futuwwa), which was manifest most perfectly in the person of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)...

This lesson is an important reminder of the need to spiritually reorient ourselves; and to embrace, embody, and make manifest the light of Prophetic Good--in our own lives, and around us...

You can also register for other SeekersHub Toronto cass for free--to access resources and past lessons -- from www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/donate

In the opening to Lesson One of the Exploring the Qur'an: Surah Yasin Explained class, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani gives us key background to the surah described by the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) as "the heart of the Qur'an."

This class is held live on Fridays (7.30 pm) at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org for details). To register for the class, please go to: www.seekershub.org/programs

The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) described Surat Yasin as the heart of the Qur’an, because it contains the three essential themes of the Qur’an: (1) a call to Divine Oneness; (2) a consciousness of our duty before God, and the encouragement to turn to Him; and (3) awareness of the reality of death, resurrection, and the afterlife.

Surat Yasin, which the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) encouraged us to recite regularly and reflect upon, gives us reminders of the most important questions of life: why am I here? where I am headed? what should I be doing in life? … and gives us the most beautiful and comprehensive of answers.

By looking at the key themes and verse-by-verse study of this powerful chapter of the Qur’an, Shaykh Faraz will help us understand how to bring Surat Yasin "into" one's heart through encouraging its:

[a] recitation; [b] memorization; [c] reflection; and [d] realization.

Over the ten classes, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani will take the students through the entire chapter, providing commentary on the meanings, spiritual context and numerous everyday lessons that can be derived from each verse.

These classes are suitable for all students: see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

In the weekly Exploring the Qur'an class at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani covered the Qualities of the Servants of the All-Merciful from Surat al-Furqan (25.63-77), on Friday, August 31, 2012. This was based on the recommendation of Imam Afroz Ali, who touched upon these verses the week before.

These verses mention 11 key qualities of true righteous believers--who seek Allah's Mercy and are manifestations of mercy and virtue in their lives. This qualities are:

(1) Humility. (2) Forbearance. (3) Night Worship. (4) Fear. (5) Leaving Excess & Remissness. (6) Leaving Wrong: Shirk, Zina, Killing. (7) Repentance. (8) Leaving Lying. (9) Overlooking Other’s Errors. (10) Accepting Admonition. (11) Turning to Allah [Qurtubi, al-Jami` li Ahkam al-Qur'an]

Some gems shared by Shaykh Faraz in the class:

On humility: "Those that 'tread lightly on earth' do so through their character and in conduct. They don't harm anything--not even an atom."

On avoiding excess (israf): "Excess is using anything beyond benefit or need. Thus, it is understood from the sunna that if you're not driving the car, turn it off; don't use more water than needed in your wudu… always consider how much is enough, and don't go beyond."

On repentance: "One could have sinned their whole life but then repents and worships for two years... they will be as if they spent their whole life in worship... it all depends on intentions... ask for a lot but then strive for it"

On avoiding witnessing the wrong in gatherings: "If you can't stop slander or defend the person, then change the subject…"

With such practical advice, Shaykh Faraz combined classical commentary with useful contextualizing of the teachings.

The Exploring the Qur'an class is held weekly on Fridays, 7.30-9.00pm, and concludes with a communal potluck dinner. All are welcome. Young and old, single and with family. See: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

During the weekly recitation of Habib Umar's Praise of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)--al-Diya' al-Lami`--Shaykh Faraz Rabbani comments briefly on lines describing the state of lovers when the Beloved is mentioned.

The weekly circle of remembrance and praise (mawlid) takes place at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains seven spiritual manners related to travel, from a lesson on Sixty Sunnas of Travel.

This is taken from Shaykh Faraz's weekly class on Islamic Beliefs & Worship Explained, in which he is covering "Ascent to Felicity," an excellent manual on faith & worship by Imam Shurunbulali.

This free class is taught on Wednesdays (7.30 pm Toronto time) at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online from www.SeekersHub.org ("Online Classroom).

You can register for class for free at http://seekershub.ticketleap.com/seekers-steps-islamic-beliefs-and-worship/

You can also register for other SeekersHub Toronto cass for free--to access resources and past lessons -- from www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/donate

[Sunnas of Using the Toilet] In lesson six of Imam Ghazali's Beginning of Guidance Explained, held at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), Shaykh Faraz begins Imam Ghazali's continues description of how to structure one's day according to the Prophetic sunna, from waking to sleep.

In this lesson, the sunnas of using the toilet are covered. Many points of propriety are raised, and general religious values--such as modesty, restraint, and avoiding wastefulness--are highlighted.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

[Register--for free--to get access to past lessons, lesson handouts for notes, a class forum, and related resources -- SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs ]

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

In lesson five of Imam Ghazali's Beginning of Guidance Explained, Shaykh Faraz begins Imam Ghazali's description of how to structure one's day according to the Prophetic sunna, from waking to sleep.

The sunnas of waking are covered, and many of the wisdoms related to spiritual routines, discipline, and God-consciousness are explained.

Key properiety (adab) of seekers of knowledge are also touched upon.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

[Register--for free--to get access to past lessons, lesson handouts for notes, a class forum, and related resources -- SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs ]

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

In this session with the radio show "Muslim Perspectives", Shaykh Faraz discusses the central verse of the first chapter of the Qur'an, The Opening (Al Fatiha), which we recite everyday in every prayer.

This chapter is not simply the opening of the Qur'an, but also an opening for us of closeness and relating to Allah. Listen on for what verse it is, and what it signifies.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani teaches regular classes at SeekersHub Toronto, some of which are also broadcasted live online. For details, see: www.seekershub.org/programs

SeekersHub Toronto (http://SeekersHub.org), a new Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area, committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains Imam Ghazali's first chapter of his classic primer on practical spirituality, Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-HIdaya).

Here, Imam Ghazali explains the central importance of the obligatory acts (fara'id) and then the recommended actions (sunnas).

Shaykh Faraz explains the different types of obligatory actions--the personally obligatory and the societal obligations; the outward obligations and the inward obligations; the directly obligatory and the indirectly obligatory.

The principles of prioritizing one's religious actions, with consistent, gradual, sustainable action, are clarified.

Imam Ghazali mentions the famous "hadith of electhood" in which the way of drawing closer to Allah is summarized. Shaykh Faraz explains some of the central lessons of this hadith, including the highest aims of a believer: closeness to Allah; attaining unto the love of Allah; and gnosis (experiential knowledge) of Allah.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains Imam Ghazali's introduction to his classic primer on practical spirituality, Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-HIdaya).

Imam Ghazali differentiates in this section between the seeker who benefits from their knowledge; the one who doesn't benefit; and the one who destroys themselves through their knowledge. Shaykh Faraz explains the characteristics of each type, and some contemporary cautions for seekers of knowledge & the spiritual path.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains Imam Ghazali's introduction to his classic primer on practical spirituality, Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-HIdaya).

Here, Imam Ghazali emphasizes that for knowledge to fulfill its transformative potential--and for it to be a proof for you and not against you--it must be acted upon with submission and sincerity to Allah Most High.

Ghazali warns seekers of knowledge against knowledge that doesn't benefit nor transform one's relationship with Allah Most High.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains that there are two main "ways" in Islamic spirituality--the way of fear and the way of thankfulness--and how Imam Ghazali represents the latter. The need for balance and awareness of context and circumstance in one's spiritual and religious life are emphasized.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

In this opening class in explanation of Imam Ghazali's classic primer on practical spirituality, Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-HIdaya), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the purpose of Imam Ghazali's text and teachings.

The central theme of this work is transformative knowledge: beneficial knowledge being knowledge that results in action that leads to transforming one's relationship with Allah Most High and spiritual realization.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani gives a brief biography of Imam Ghazali, explaining why he was known as the "Proof of Islam" (Hujjat al-Islam), and some of the distinguishing characteristics of his scholarship.

A useful thematic overview of Beginning of Guidance is given.

This class is held on Sundays at 3.30 pm Eastern at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), and broadcast live online. For details, see: SeekersHub Programs: www.seekershub.org/programs

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

In lesson two of his commentary of Imam Busiri's Poem of the Mantle (Qasida Burda), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the opening three lines of the Burda.

These lines express the poet's sense of loss in love, and the pains of yearning and passion. This opening is characteristic of classical Arabic poetry, which often begins with mention of sorrow and yearning for a beloved that has parted.

This class is held on Thursday evenings, 7.30 pm Eastern, at SeekersHub Toronto, and broadcast live online. For details, see: www.seekershub.org/programs

SeekersHub Toronto (http://SeekersHub.org), a new Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area, committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

In lesson one of his commentary of Imam Busiri's Poem of the Mantle (Qasida Burda), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the importance of the praise of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), and introduces the text and author.

He explains how the very name of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) means "the most praise and most praiseworthy," and gives some of the reasons why the Qasida Burda was accepted throughout the centuries across the Muslim world--and commented upon by leading Islamic scholars.

Over the next few weeks, this class will provide a line by line commentary and explanation of this blessed poem. [ Class is held on Thursday evenings, 7.30 pm Eastern. SeekersHub Classes: www.seekershub.org/programs ]

Recorded at SeekersHub (http://SeekersHub.org), a new Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area, committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Video of the lesson: http://youtu.be/pWPEYC_S0UM (full)

A radio interview with Dr Umar F. Abd-Allah, on Muslim Perspectives - a radio program broadcasted on WTOR 770AM Toronto on Saturdays between 3 and 4 pm (streamed on the internet live at www.eawaz.com).

In this interview Dr Umar made some observations and prescriptions for the Ummah with relevance to our role as Canadian Muslims in the context of sustaining a community of believers in our space and time.

Dec 07/2011: Dr. Umar speaks at Lote Tree Learning and Resource Centre - http://lotetree.ca - about the importance of continuity and community wherever muslims live, citing historical examples from different parts of the world.

SeekersHub (http://SeekersHub.org), is an Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

For the latest on Dr. Umar Abd-Allah's tour, please visit http://seekershub.org/2011/11/16/seekershub-hosts-dr-umar-faruq-abd-allah-december-2011/

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Dr. Umar gives a rich, engaging commentary on the aphorisms (hikam) of Ibn Ata'illah, which are one of the greatest summaries of authentic Islamic spirituality (tawassuf/sufism), grounded in deep understanding of the Qur'an and Sunna and mainstream understanding of Islam.

Recorded at SeekersHub (http://SeekersHub.org), a new Islamic learning centre in the Greater Toronto Area, committed to providing a wide spectrum of free learning opportunities and spiritual activities that are open and welcoming to all individuals.

For the latest on Dr. Umar Abd-Allah's tour, please visit http://seekershub.org/2011/11/16/seekershub-hosts-dr-umar-faruq-abd-allah-december-2011/

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani relates and explains Umm Ma`bad's Description of the Prophet at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org).

During the migration from Mecca to Medina, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) and Abu Bakr stopped at the dwelling place of Umm Ma`bad, an elderly lady. She was amazed by the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk), and described him beautifully to her husband. Imam al-Iraqi conveys this in his 1,000-line poem about the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace):

She said regarding him with the tongue of a describer / Luminous of face, manifestly radiant
In his form, with no blemish nor protruding stomach / Indeed, nor feebleness
Wide-eyed, with long eyelashes / With slight curves
His neck was long & high, a handsome man / His voice was strong--completely beautiful
His beard was full, his eyebrows were arched & full / The most pleasing of people when close, and most virtuous
The most beautiful & radiance of people from distance / When he spoke, his voice would rise and reach
Likewise, dignity would envelop him when silent / His speech was like stringed pearls
With distinguished words, not excessive / Sweet in his expressions, without blameworthy brevity
Neither excessively tall, nor overlooked due to shortness / Rather, he would be considered great
Due to his radiant appearance and honour / His companions would surround him, with deference
If commanded, they would hasten to obey / If he spoke, they were attentive out of respect
Thus, he was served by his companions / For they hastened to obey him and accompany him
He didn’t frown nor criticize / This is how Umm Ma`bad described him

See also: http://sheikhynotes.blogspot.com/2009/01/umm-mabuds-description-of-messenger-of.html

This class on {Perfect Beauty: the Prophet Described} is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Monday evenings (7-8.30 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Help us continue to provide education without barriers through your ongoing monthly support or a one-time donation: http://seekershub.org/support-us/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name, al-Muhaymin (the Guardian), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name, al-Aziz (the Tremendous/the Triumphant), from the works of Imam Zarruq & Imam Qushayri on the 99 Names of Allah.

Dr. Umar F. Abd-Allah comments on the class, and then shares some insights on the Hajj. He closes with an answer on how to balance keenness to share beneficial knowledge with others and having permission to do so--reminding us of the Prophetic way of striving to gain knowledge, live knowledge, be transformed by knowledge, to exemplify knowledge, and to convey knowledge to others in the best and most beautiful of ways.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern).

For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/ You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Recorded at SeekersHub (http://SeekersHub.org):: Shaykh Faraz Rabbani in his weekly class on Allah's Most Beautiful Names, discusses the Divine Name "Al Aziz". Dr. Umar Abd-Allah shares his comments as well.

Dr. Umar F. Abd-Allah is at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) for the entire month of December. See: http://seekershub.org/2011/11/16/seekershub-hosts-dr-umar-faruq-abd-allah-december-2011/

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name, al-Mu'min (the Faithful), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani of SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) explains lessons for the new Islamic year from the hadith related by Sufyan ibn Abd Allah, who asked the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), "O Messenger of Allah, tell me regarding Islam something I cannot ask anyone besides you." He said, "Say: I believe in Allah--and then remain upright." [Related by Muslim]

This Friday sermon (khutba) was delivered in Milton, ON, as part of SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) community outreach.

عن أبي عمرو ، وقيل أبي عمرة ؛ سفيان بن عبد الله الثقفي رضي الله عنه ، قال : قلت : يا رسول الله ! قـل لي في الإسـلام قـولا لا أسـأل عـنه أحــدًا غـيـرك ؛ قـال : ( قــل : آمـنـت بـالله ، ثـم اسـتـقم ). رواه مسلم

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name, as-Salam (the Peace), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykha Noura Shamma, a distinguished visiting scholar, gave an inspiring and memorable lesson on the way of the Companions--and their passionate love for Allah and the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him)--through stories of famous and less-famous Companions.

This lesson was delivered at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) on Saturday, November 19, 2011.

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) is a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Names, al-Malik and al-Quddus (the Master & the Pure), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

In the fifth lesson on the 99 Names, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Names, al-Rahman and al-Rahim (the All-Merciful and the Compassionate), from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names of Allah.
This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

In the fourth lesson on the 99 Names, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Divine Name "Allah," from Imam Zarruq's work on the 99 Names.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, the Executive Director of SeekersHub (http://www.seekershub.org) and Educational Director of SeekersGuidance (http://www.seekersguidance.org) was invited to deliver the Friday Prayers Sermon on October 28, 2011 at St. James Park – the site of the Occupy Toronto movement.

The following is taken from the closing remarks of the sermon:

Seven Counsels in Closing:

1. Be steadfastly committed to justice and excellence in your own life: fulfill the rights of God and God’s creation, with sincerity, concern, and excellence of character.
2. Be particularly careful about the rights of your parents, spouse/partner, children–then family, friends, neighbours, and community–then those wronged (whoever/whatever).
3. Ignore mass media: focus on becoming an informed citizen–so that you can seek, spread, and safeguard justice and excellence–the beautiful balance.
4. Money matters: look carefully at how you spend your money… make ethical, informed choices–promoting justice and excellence…
5. Time matters: don’t become a mere consumer… consuming products and entertainment and infotainment. “Two blessings many lose out on: health and free time.” – Spend your time in seeking justice and excellence… family, friends, neighborhood, society….
6. Your life matters: don’t just be a slave in the corporate jungle… seek to make your work a promotion of justice & excellence; work of benefit and meaning. Work with purpose. Relate with purpose. From our tradition: working on one’s own terms…
7. Do this for God; do this seeking Mercy; do this out of sincere concern….

What do we seek? Balance of Justice (`adl) and Excellence (ihsan). That is what makes life beautiful.

And indeed God is Beautiful, and loves Beauty.

In the third lesson on the 99 Names, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani covers an overview of the relationship between the Names and Attributes of Allah, and explains the classical understanding of the Essential Attributes of Allah. He then explains how all the Divine Names return in their meaning to these Essential Attributes, based on Imam Ghazali's work on the 99 Names.

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

In the second lesson on the 99 Names, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani covers Imam Zarruq's introduction, on key investigations related to the Divine Names:

* The different types of Divine Attributes
* What it means to "encompass" the Divine Names
* How one relates to the Divine Names: memorizing, mentioning, knowing, connecting, and characterizing.

The Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk) said, "Allah has 99 Names... whoever encompasses them shall enter Paradise."

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

The greatest expression of one's faith, is the intensity of one's love for Allah and His Messenger, peace be upon him. Shaykh Faraz discusses this in more detail during a gathering of rememberance of God and celebration of His beloved Prophet, at SeekersHub Toronto (http://www.SeekersHub.org).

For a detailed programs listing at SeekersHub, please see http://www.seekershub.org/programs

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a Qur'anic verse (7.199) in which Allah Most High calls the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) to the highest of virtues. This is also a summary of the virtues of the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk).

"Be easygoing; call to the good; and turn away from the ignorant." [Qur'an, 7.199]

This is from the Qualities of the Believers series taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org)

This class is taught on Friday evenings at SeekersHub. See: http://seekershub.org/programs/

In this lesson delivered at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org) Shaykh Faraz Rabbani introduces the author (Shaykh Ahmad Zarruq) of one of the best concise works on the 99 Names of Allah. Then, he covers the author's introduction, in which key introductory issues related to understanding the Divine Names are explained by Imam Zarruq.

The Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk) said, "Allah has 99 Names... whoever encompasses them shall enter Paradise."

This class on Allah's Beautiful Names is taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) on Thursday evenings (7-8 pm Eastern). For full program, see: http://seekershub.org/programs/

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani and Shaykh Yahya Rhodus address the attendees at SeekersHub's fundraising dinner.

Shaykh Faraz addresses the question "What is SeekersHub?", and Shaykh Yahya discusses sustaining new beginnings in our lives and communities through contemplation on the Prophetic Way and how it can invigorate us and our communities.

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic verse on leaving all sin [Qur'an, 6.120]--outward & inward, manifest & hidden, clear & subtle.

Allah Most High says, "Leave outward sin and inward..." [Qur'an, 6.120]

This is part of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org)--a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Umar al-Yafi b. Muhammad al-Husayni was born in the city of Yafa (Jaffa) in Ottoman Palestine in 1759/1173. He was a Ḥanafī who had a deep knowledge of Islamic Law (fiqh), hadith, Arabic grammar, and morphology. He was also a great spiritual guide who had a profound impact on the lives of the great many who were transformed by his teachings. He expressed much of his divine love and wisdoms in the many lines of poetry he composed, which were later collected by his students in what became known as Diwan al-Yafi.

Amongst his most famous compositions is the short prayer for rain below. In a region where water is scarce and rain is considered a blessing whose abundance or scarcity correlates with the good actions and sins of the community, this composition became sung far and wide.

Perhaps, what has distinguished this poem over others is the deep humility and sense of submission to God conveyed in Shaykh al-Yāfī’s plea, “If you are the Helper of only those who are obedient, who will then help those [of us] who are sinful? The mercy of the Most-Merciful is absolute without any restrictions. If none could hope for Your provision other than those who are obedient on Your path, in whom can those [of us] who disobey You seek refuge? For, You are the Guide for those who are astray.”

If the elite who have devoted their entire lives to God implore Him as such, we are reminded of how much more we are utterly dependent on God’s mercy and guidance.

------

Taken from http://www.nursacredsciences.com/

A full writeup, along with the complete text and an excellent translation, may be found at: http://www.nursacredsciences.com/shaykh-umar-al-yafis-supplication-for-rain/

The verse on believers' intense love of Allah (Qur'an, 2.165) being their distinguishing characteristic is explained by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani from the Tafsir of Ibn `Ashur (al-Tahrir wa'l Tanwir)--a 20th Century tafsir that is accepted as one of the greatest Qur'anic commentaries ever written.

The meanings of love, godhead, and yearning are brought out, with reference to other classical commentaries and scholarly works.

This is part of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org)--a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani continues commenting on the verse on "intense love of Allah" (Qur'an, 2.165), this time from the tafsir of Imam al-Alusi, the great 19th Century jurist and exegete from Baghdad.

This is lesson 24 of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught b Shaykh Faraz at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the Qur'anic verse on believers' "intense love for Allah" (2.165) from the brilliant commentary of one of the foremost Islamic theologians & Qur'anic exegetes, Imam Fakhr al-Din al-Razi--who brings out beautiful nuances from the verse.

This is lesson 24 of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

You can subscribe to the SeekersHub free Islamic podcast from the SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) page, or directly through iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/seekershubs-free-islamic-podcast/id450995414

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a verse (2.165) on "intense love for Allah" as being one of the distinguishing characteristic of true believers. This verse is explained over the next few lessons, from a number of classical Qur'anic commentaries. In this lesson, Shaykh Faraz looks at the explanations of two great Andalusian scholars--Imam Qurtubi & Imam Ibn Juzayy.

"Among the people are those who take other than Allah as partners with Him. They love them as Allah should be loved . But those who believe are more intense in love for Allah." [Qur'an, 2.165]

This is the 23rd lesson of "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an," taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org)--a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

In the first Eid khutba at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains that the central lesson of Ramadan--learned through the fasting, prayer, recitation of Qur'an, and other spiritual acts in the month--is seeking closeness to Allah.

It is this meaning of seeking closeness that we celebrate and express thankfulness for on the day of Eid, and which we must strive to nurture past Ramadan, in all our actions of devotion & life.

It is through realizing our neediness to Allah that we can attain this closeness; and it is only through this realization that we can be truly thankful & find purpose in life.

SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org) is a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains the sunnas of Eid: [1] the sunna of worship on the night before Eid; [2] the sunnas before Eid prayer; [3] some of the sunnas of the Eid prayer itself; and [4] having a post-Ramadan spiritual plan.

Taught at SeekersHub (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a Qur'anic verse (6.32) on the reality of worldliness as being mere play and idling--and that true life is life of the Hereafter. The meaning of "dunya" is explained as not being this life itself but, rather, worldliness--namely, being attached to worldly matters in ways that entail disobedience, disadvantage, or distance from Allah and the Next Life. The meanings of true intelligence (`aql) are discussed...

“What is worldly life except for play & idling? Indeed, the Next Abode is better for those mindful. Will you not understand?” [Qur’an: 6.32]

This is lesson 22 of the series on Qualities of the Believers in the Qur'an, taught by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

Shaykh Faraz Rabbani explains a Qur'anic verse (5.119) on the consequences of being true, and the tremendous reward & success entailed by this virtue. The reality of sincerity (ikhlas) and being true (sidq) are explained, from the explanation of great spiritual masters such as Ibn Ajiba and Qushayri.

“Allah says: This is the day when the true will benefit from their trueness. They shall have Gardens under which rivers flow, residing there forever. Allah is pleased with them, & they with Him. This is great victory.” [Qur’an, 5.119]

This is lesson 21 of the series on "Qualities of the Believers in the Qur’an" taught at SeekersHub Toronto (www.SeekersHub.org), a project of SeekersGuidance (www.SeekersGuidance.org).

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