Know Your Deen

Islamic QA for North America

March 28, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
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Interfaith Inquires

Asalamualikum, Br xxxxx:
I appreciate your inquiry. Islam, like any belief system is nuanced and complex, and simplistic answers often fall short. While I can offer an overview to help the individual understand Muslim beliefs, I strongly encourage him to engage in personal conversations with scholars of religion for a deeper understanding. It’s crucial to approach these discussions with an open mind and a willingness to explore the complexities of faith.

The questions touch on common criticisms or misconceptions about Islam. The issues mentioned, such as the marriage of Zainab (RA), the context of actions attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the treatment of prisoners of war are often used as buzzwords or critiques on Islam without delving into the context or the teachings of Islam as a whole.

It’s important to delve deeper into these topics and not to dismiss them based on surface-level criticisms. By seeking knowledge and understanding, we can move beyond misconceptions and appreciate the depth and wisdom of Islamic teachings. In advance I thank your friend for these questions.

Q1  it looks like the prophet Muhammad did a few things that go against the Quran. Example: he married Zainab without a witness, he led offensive wars, he had more than 4 wives at the time of his death, in the Invasion of the Banu Qurayza he killed all the men (people of the book, not pagans) and enslaved the women and children. Why would that happen? Is he supposed to be the ideal man or leader? If he spent so much time with Gabriel, it’s hard for me to understand that he would do such things. Why would he be allowed or given special circumstances against God’s word, if that’s the case?
Answer 1: The actions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) are often misunderstood or misinterpreted, leading to confusion and criticism. Here are some points to consider:
-Marriage to Zainab: The marriage to Zainab bint Jahsh was a unique case that actually upheld Quranic principles. At that time, adoption was common in Arab culture, and Zainab was originally married to Zaid ibn Harithah who was considered the Prophet’s adopted son. However, Islam changed the concept of adoption to maintain lineage integrity. Also when Zainab and Zaid eventually divorced, this marriage also implied strongly, despite Zaid’s close relationship to the prophet (PBUH), he was in no way biologically related to either of them as per religious criteria. The Prophet’s marriage to Zainab served as an example to abolish the pre-Islamic notions of adoption.

-Regarding ‘offensive wars,’ it’s important to understand that the wars led by the Prophet of Islam were primarily defensive in nature, aimed at protecting the Muslim community from aggression and persecution. The Qur’an permits fighting in self-defense, stating, “Permission to fight is given to those who are fought against because they have been wronged” (Qur’an 22:39). The emphasis is on the restoration of justice and the protection of basic human rights. We all would agree, when attacked, one cannot be a coward and let its citizens be in for a slaughter.

Islam, like other comprehensive systems, provides guidance on both peace and war. The Qur’an emphasizes the importance of peace, stating, “Fight in the way of Allah against those who fight against you, but begin not hostilities. Lo! Allah loveth not aggressors” (Qur’an 2:190). It also highlights the value of reconciliation and forgiveness, encouraging Muslims to “repel evil with that which is better” (Qur’an 41:34).

-The concept of defensive warfare in Islam is rooted in the principle of self-preservation and the protection of basic human rights. It is seen as a last resort when all peaceful means of resolving conflicts have been exhausted. The ultimate goal of such defensive wars is to establish justice and ensure the freedom of worship for all people, regardless of their faith.

-The Prophet’s multiple marriages were often strategic, serving purposes such as fostering diplomatic ties, caring for widows, and setting an example. They were not driven by mere lust. Historical records indicate that most of his wives were either widowed or divorced. In modern times, men often seek partners who meet different criteria than those sought by the Prophet, indicating that his marriages were more about bridging communities than about casual relationships.

-The incident involving the Banu Qurayza tribe, though tragic, was a response to their betrayal during a time of war. The punishment meted out to them was in accordance with the prevailing laws of war, which often included harsh measures against those deemed to have committed treachery. Similar incidents can be found in the history of many societies engaged in conflict.

Despite the severity of the punishment, Islamic teachings emphasize kindness and justice, even in the treatment of prisoners of war. The Qur’an instructs believers to fulfill their covenants and promises and to be just even when dealing with enemies (Qur’an 76:8-9). This demonstrates that while the event with the Banu Qurayza may seem harsh by today’s standards, it was a reflection of the norms of warfare at the time rather than a deviation from Islamic principles. Even in warfare, things must be proportionate. As noted, this was awarded to the citizens — woman and children, etc. They were not starved, killed, etc. Once taken, they were given their rights as prevalent at the time in full. Historians would also testify to this.

-Regarding the Prophet spending time with Gabriel, it’s important to clarify that Gabriel’s role was to deliver messages from God to the Prophet, not to engage in casual conversation. Gabriel’s task was to convey divine revelations and he did so faithfully without personal interaction or influence. The Prophet Muhammad’s actions were guided by his understanding of these revelations and his role as a leader, and they were in accordance with the teachings of Islam.

Q2: Jesus in the Quran looks like he was the perfect Muslim – he obeyed God completely and didn’t break any of his rules. Is he the ideal example of a Muslim? Is he considered equal to, less than, or more than the prophet Muhammad?
Answer 2:

-In Islam, Jesus (Isa in Arabic) is highly revered and viewed as one of the greatest prophets, along with other prophets such as Moses, Noah, Abraham, and many others. Each prophet had a specific mission and role in conveying the message of monotheism and guiding their respective communities. Things are not seen as either Him or Him. For us, they both have a special position, including the Virgin Mary.

-While Jesus (pbuh) is revered for his obedience to God and his exemplary life, Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) holds a unique and special position as the final messenger and seal of the prophets. Prophet Muhammad’s mission encompassed not only delivering the message of Islam but also completing and perfecting the guidance for all of humanity. We also follow what Jesus said for us to follow:  And remember Jesus, the son of Mary, said: O children of Israel! I am the Apostle of God sent to you confirming the Torah, which came before me, and giving Glad Tidings of an Apostle to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad (the other name for Mohammad). But when he came to them with Clear Signs, they said: this is evident sorcery. (61:6)

-While Jesus (pbuh) is considered a perfect example of submission to God’s will and a model of piety and devotion, his role differs from that of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). Jesus’ teachings were directed at his specific time and people, while Prophet Muhammad’s message is universal and timeless, applicable to all people and all times.

-Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad’s teachings and guidance encompass all aspects of life, including spiritual, moral, social, and legal matters, making him the ideal example for Muslims to emulate. While Jesus is revered and respected, his status is seen as one of the mightiest prophets, whereas Prophet Muhammad is regarded as the final and most comprehensive example for all of humanity.

Q3:- why would the Quran have stories about Muhammad’s life, if the Quran was given by the angel Gabriel? It doesn’t make sense that the angel would give Muhammad a story of his own life to include in the Quran. (I’m sure there’s a good explanation here – I guess I want to know what specifically the Angel Gabriel revealed in the Quran)  
Answer 3: The Quran doesn’t simply narrate stories of the prophets; it offers profound lessons through their experiences within specific contexts. The story of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) is the only one narrated from beginning to end, but the Quran is replete with lessons intertwined with various contexts. These narratives serve distinct purposes, crucial for understanding the Quran’s message and the role of Prophet Muhammad. They provide guidance, affirm the prophethood of Muhammad, offer historical contexts to relevant issues, and impart moral and comprehensive guidance, which Muslims deeply value and integrate into their lives. Despite their narrative form, these stories are not mere tales about the Prophet’s life; rather, they contain timeless wisdom and guidance for humanity.

It is important to understand that Gabriel’s role was to deliver God’s message, which included guidance on how to live a righteous life according to God’s will. Muhammad’s life in the Quran serves to reinforce the teachings of Islam, provide practical examples for Muslims to follow, and offer guidance for all aspects of life.
Allah Certainly Knows Best.

March 24, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
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Sipping with the Call: Clock in Hand

Q: There have been multiple videos circulating by multiple scholars stating that you can eat all the way up to Fajr. They are quoting the hadith that if you have food in your hand, then you can continue eating until the adhan and even during the adhan. When leading scholars say things, we believe them. What should we do? Let’s say i eat till the end of adhan, would that be okay? Some Muadhin say a 3 to 5 minutes adhan, so would it be fine to eat til the end of it? JAK

A: The hadith you are possibly referring to states: When one of you hears the call to prayer while the vessel is in his hand, let him not put it down until he has fulfilled his need of it. It is important to note that this hadith has a specific context as described by experts of hadith. Our TikTok generation often shares snippets of this hadith without providing us with the proper understanding, leading to a relaxed or extreme approach to fasting.

In our time, we have watches, and astronomers have established fixed times for the start and end of the fast. Humans appear to want it both ways. When it suits us to be modern, we go that route, when it suits us to follow traditional thinking that suits us, we want to go that way. Therefore, just as one does not break their fast merely because it gets cloudy, the same principle applies to the start of the fasting time. We rely on our clocks to determine when to begin fasting and when to end it.

Context: Regarding the hadith in question, during the time of the Prophet (SAW) and subsequent generations, two adhans were often given. The first adhan served as a reminder, while the second adhan was the actual call to prayer. Thus, the first adhan was not for the Fajr salah but rather a signal to stop eating. Also, the Rasool (SAW) is divinely guided, if He said to stop, He knew better. If He allowed the person to continue, He knew better. This is part of our belief. 

Applying this hadith in its proper context, if one had something in their hand when the alarm/adhan/siren for starting the fast went off at its exact time, it would not be forbidden to finish what is in one’s hand. However, it would be incorrect to prolong eating until the end of the adhan. Once the muadhin says Allahu Akbar, one should finish what is in their hand, and hopefully, by the second Allahu Akbar — or by the end of the second Allahu Akbar the fast would have started. Repeating this delaying action to start ones fast intentionally would be incorrect. This would also depend on when your adhan/reminder for fasting occurred. Thus, if your reminder went off on the exact time for the start fast, you would be safe, if your settings were off, then this too would need to be taken into consideration, resulting in a possible repeat of the given fast.

It is also recommended to start the fast a few minutes earlier to avoid any doubt. Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt (hadith). If a delay occurs within the mentioned parameters, the fast would not be invalid.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.

March 20, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
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Life support and Islam

Q: Can we remove a person from life support?

A: In Islam, the sanctity of life is paramount, and decisions regarding life support must be approached with careful consideration and in alignment with Islamic teachings. The Quran and Hadith provide specific guidance on life and support of life, several principles can help Muslims navigate such decisions.

The Quran emphasizes the preservation of life, stating: And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden, except by right (Quran 17:33). This verse underscores the value of human life and implies that taking a life, except when justified by Islamic law, is forbidden.

Additionally, the Hadith encourages seeking medical treatment and utilizing available resources to preserve life. The Rasool (SAW) said: Make use of medical treatment, for Allah has not made a disease without appointing a remedy for it, with the exception of one disease, namely old age (Abu Dawud).

In light of these principles, if medical experts determine that there is no hope of recovery for a patient on life support, it may be permissible to discontinue life support after thorough deliberation and consultation with knowledgeable individuals. However, this decision should not be made lightly, and all efforts should be made to seek alternative opinions and explore all treatment options.

It is prudent, when placing a patient on life support, to state the intention that it is only temporary, until a resolution can be found. Once it is determined that no cure exists, immediate removal from life support is recommended. Delaying removal at this point could be considered a sin, as one would be assuming the role of God.

Allah Certainly Knows Best

P.s. Please contact a good Muslim doctor for deeper insight.

March 15, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
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Fidya — makeup payments

Q: I am terminally ill and have not paid fidya for 5 years. Do I owe for the past? I do have money. Who do i give it to? Anyone? Howmuch? Shukran

A: Yes, it will accumulate and you would need to give for past missed fidya.

Multiply the fast you missed by a minimum of anywhere from $8-$10. Should yo wish to give more, your reward too would be greater, inshaALlah

Under ideal conditions, seek out a needy Muslim, especially if there is a qualifying individual within your family, and provide the fidya to them. By actively searching, you will likely find a deserving recipient. If you choose to donate through a larger organization, be aware that they may deduct fees. To ensure that the needy are not penalized, please cover these fees in addition to the fidya amount you intend to give.

May Allah (SWT) make it easy for you.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.

March 15, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
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Cremation and Janazah

Q:We have a case in which a man was cremated, can janazah salah be performed. Yes? No?

A: While there may be an academic debate regarding whether such a Janaza prayer would even be considered valid when none of the body remains and only ashes are present, it is important to note that some allow for the performance of the Janaza prayer in such circumstances, especially when the Muslim deceased is not at fault for his cremation.

For those that do allow for a janazah to occur, they should also make clear, if the prayer is conducted, it should be done privately – without public invitation so as to prevent the promotion of such undesirable and prohibited practices within communities. It should also be done by a person that does not have any major religious position in the community. There must never be the perception of approval for such an action.

This is a major sin, we seek Allah (SWT’s) forgiveness.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.

P.s. I am told that a particular scholar allows for it. I personally think its allowance is with conditions as mentioned above.

March 11, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
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“Day of Doubt”

Q: Some of us felt that it was scientifically impossible to spot the moon, according to moonsighting.com as well. However, some people in my family said, “No biggie, we will fast. If we’re wrong, we get a reward; if we’re correct, we get reward.” ‘Some shuyuk’ said to take a position that is ‘evidence based.’ And some refused to follow saudi arabia because of their lack of ‘unity’ and support of our Palestinian bothers and sisters. Also they say to fast as described above is a sin and haram. How can this be? Can fasting be haram? Can you share any light or evidence? We want to do the right thing. Jak

A: I appreciate your inquiry.  Rasool (SAW) said: Fast when you see the new moon and break your fast when you see the new moon, and if you are not sure, then complete the number of Sha’ban as thirty days. (Bukhari)

Ammar ibn Yasir stated: Whoever fasts on the day concerning which there is doubt has disobeyed Abu’l-Qasim (Rasool (SAW)) (Tirmidhi)

Shaykh Muhammad ibn ‘Uthaymin (Rahmatullah) addressed the differing opinions regarding fasting on the day of doubt, stating: The most correct view is that it is haram. However, if it is proven to the ruler (governing bodies, etc.) that fasting on this day is obligatory and he (they) commands the people to fast, (or there would be adverse consequences upon the individual or community) then no one should openly oppose his decision. This means that no one should openly declare that he is not fasting on that day. Instead, a person who holds a different opinion may choose not to fast, (or fast depending on the situation) but he should do so discreetly (to avoid fitna). (Sharh al-Mumti: 6/318)

Based on the above, it is understood that if there is uncertainty about the start of Ramadan, one should refrain from fasting but without creating further discord. Many conflicts arise from individuals seeking validation for their personal choices. In Islam, decisions regarding the start or end of Ramadan are not based on personal preferences but on religious guidelines. I appreciate your effort in seeking evidence.

Ramadan Kareem.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.  

March 11, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
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No Moon or Moon?!

Q: Please help us on this one. I am writing for a family of 25 and we would like you help us out, please! Some have started based on global sighting. Some on calculation, and some refused based on not seeing the moon nationally. Scientifically, it was impossible to see the moon. My brother is at cal tech and his professors also agree that sighting it with the naked eye was impossible.So what does our family and extended family do. Also, would you as the imaam fast monday or tuesday. JAK

A: I am assuming that none of you are fuqaha (Islamic jurists), so you have the following choices regarding the start of Ramadan:

  1. Follow your local Islamic center. If you feel this is an error, schedule a meeting with them after Ramadan. There’s no need to spoil your Ramadan. Go with your proof, you will have plenty to support you.
  2. If you are consistent with local moon sighting, then wait for your first fast to be on Tuesday. If this is your choice, do not feel guilty about it. Organizations like www.crescentwatch.org and chicagohilal.org are reputable and have major scholars on their rosters supporting your decision.
  3. If your center follows calculations, and you feel that this is the best choice, follow it. However, do seek repentance (make tawba) for not following the hadith that states to look for the moon to start Ramadan. (Cal tech appears to be correct on this one.)
  4. If you are a Musaleen (those who pray) at our Musjid, please ask your final question after Ramadan. I understand that many are in pain or even confused, and I do hnot want to downplay anyone’s sentiments or appear to add more salt to the fragile situation.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.

March 10, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
0 comments

ONE MOON, ONE UMMAH?!

Q: Sheikh, please do not be offended, at our musjid we had an issue. Saudi said they saw the moon, one brother refused to accpt it. He is one of these facy MIT brothers mshaALlah. Why are some people opposed to Saudi moon sighting when we are one ummah? If they see the moon, why do some reject it?

A: The fact that he is from MIT, it shows that he is possibly scientifically inclined, and I appreciate his knowledge and sensitivity, Alhamdulillah.

The phrase ‘global sighting‘ implies actual sighting, not just a claim. Please let that last phrase sink in!Additionally, we live in a society and a culture where expert testimony carries weight. When astronomers assert that the moon cannot be seen before a given time period, and only in one part of the world is the moon always seen prior to it being visible as per religious and scientific standards, then one can call such claims bogus. Thus, the issue is not Saudi or non-Saudi; it is about matching up the sightings with scientific and religious data. If one notices a consistent flaw when working with societies from a given geographic location, either due to their lack of scientific knowledge, or just sheer ignorance, etc., then following such sightings would need to be placed on hold. Additionally, if one uses global sightings as a method, then global would include, as the word implies, global and not just one country. Sadly, to many global means just one location, and this defeats the purposes of ‘global sightings.’

And no, we are NOT One United Ummah, had we been ONE United Ummah, our babies, mothers and the elderly in Palestine would need to go through what they are going through while much of the Muslim world plays politics and dances around the topic of ending human savagery and brutality! So do not fool yourself on this label of Unity through having one day for Ramadan and Eid(s)! Look at it from a more scientific and probabilities angle, while also including the religious components of it as well.

I do appreciate you taking out the time and sending in your inquiry. Seeking your prayers for one and All.

Ramadan Kareem!

Allah Certainly Knows Best.

P.s. If you are local, please drop by for a deeper conversation on this matter with an appointment. Too many angels to it, hard to respond via a mere blog post. Jazakallah!

March 10, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
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Travel — fast or not to fast

Q: If a person is traveling, for example, I know I will be traveling in Ramadan, should I fast on the day I travel? We are getting mixed information. Some say to fast because travel is made easy, while others say not to fast. One person even said to fast and then break it. What should I (we) do? Please share proof.
A: Asalamualikum:

Thank you for your question and seeking clarification on this important matter.

  1. Allah (SWT) clearly states that if one is sick (according to the advice of a good Muslim doctor) or traveling (as a musafir), then one does not need to fast. (Reference, Quran.)
  2. It is not ideal to break the fast once you have started: Do not invalidate your good actions. (Reference, Quran.)
  3. If someone advises you to fast and then break it, they may mean that you should resemble a fasting person, as it is not good to eat in front of others who are fasting or in public as a Muslim during Ramadan. Maybe they meant this, however, please share the proof of where they got this from, considering I have given you 2 ayah above and a hadith below. I would like to get more insight to this matter for learning purposes.
  4. Aishah (RA) reports that Hamzah ibn Amr al-Aslami (RA) inquired to Rasool (SAW): Should I fast whilst traveling? He was from amongst those that fasted a lot. He (SAW) said: If you want to, then fast; if you do not want to, then do not fast. (Bukhari). Thus, one must choose one: fast or do not fast. One cannot do both simultaneously.
    Allah Certainly Knows Best.

February 23, 2024
by Ml. Muhammed Shoayb
0 comments

Dad leaves debt behind

Q: My father died and has owed people a lot of money. I am 21, I am a stay home mom. I do not have the money. To my name i only 450. I sold my jewery and paid as much of his personal debt. I do not have any more money. It is over 325 000 I am told by those he owed money too that I must pay for him. What do I do? DO I make a payment plan for my fathers debt? My father left nothing at all behind. Please help.

A: May Allah (SWT) make it easy for you.

You have been generous in settling some of your fathers debt.

You are not responsible to settle your father’s debt. (More so when you do not have any resources yourself.)

Allah Certainly Knows Best.