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Momodou
Denmark
11723 Posts |
 Posted - 09 Apr 2010 : 21:08:14
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I was cleaning my mailbox today and found the following which were posted to Gambia-L by M.Saidy in May 1999. I hope some of you find it useful in understanding Islam.
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FAITH AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ILLNESS
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord and the Cherisher of the Universe. May the peace and mercy of Allah be upon the holy prophet, Muhammad(PBUH).
Allah, the Exalted, says in the Qur'an: "And We send down in the Qur'an that which is a healing and mercy to those who believe, and to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss"(Q17:82). Islam is a perfect way of life, it teaches things that will make this world and the Hereafter a peaceful abode for mankind. There are many hadith (sayings of the prophet Mohammad(PBUH)) that help Muslims to maintain a healthy life and environment. Islam teaches cleanness, prohibits harmful foods, drinks and acts; and emphasizes the importance of mental balance and fitness to remove, or reduce to the normal level, depression and anxiety that may cause illness.
In a study carried out by the World Health Organization in 1995, the causes of various illnesses are categorized into two groups namely: Physical-malfunction of organs, infections, genetics, etc, and Psychological-depression, anxiety, aggrafobia, boredom, environment, etc. 50 percent of illnesses are caused by psychological related problems in which depression, environment and anxiety are the most prominent. It was acknowledged that nobody is completely free from these psychological problems and that it is normal to experience them but they become a problem when prolonged, and apart from causing illness like hypertension and cardiac diseases, they can lead to psychiatric or mental illness. Some people try to solve their psychological problems by drinking alcohol and smoking cigarette but these on their own can cause illness.
Depression is sadness, gloominess, distress over unfavorable events.
Anxiety is a painful uneasiness, fear or worry of mind over manticipated things or events. Islamic solution for these are:
1. Believe in Preordainment(Qadar)
Allah says: "Glorify the name of your Lord, the Most High, Who created and proportioned it; and Who has measured(preordained each and everything); then guided" (Q87:1-3)."Whatever of the mercy Allah may grant to mankind, none can withhold it, and whatever He withholds, none can grant it thereafter"(Q35:2)
Whatever happens to us is with the knowledge of Allah after we have done what is humanly possible. We should strive to achieve our targets, if we achieve them it has been written that we will accomplish them otherwise, may be, it is not the best for us. We should not be miserable when we fail to achieve our targets and we should not loss hope, we should believe that there is always a better alternative for everything.
2. Reliance on and Trust in Allah (Tawakkul)
" When thou has made up your mind concerning a matter, put your trust in Allah"(Q3:16). " Believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, feel a tremor in their hearts, and when they hear His revelations rehearsed, find their faith strengthened, and put their trust in their Lord"(Q8:2). "Allah is sufficient for him who puts his trust in Him"(Q65:4).
A hadith narrated by Ibn Abbas(RA) and transmitted by Trimidhi in
Mishkat(0062) relates thus: " Once I was riding behind the prophet(PBUH), when he said, ' O boy , I want to teach you something. Be careful to follow Allah's orders steadfastly, and Allah will protect you; safeguard Allah's rights, and you will always find Him with you; if you are in need of anything, ask from Allah; and when you need help, ask Allah alone for that. Know that if all people joined together to grant you some benefits, they would not be able to, excepting in what Allah has decreed for you, and know that if all people joined together to do you harm, they would not be able to, excepting in what Allah has decreed for you. The pens have been
lifted and the ink (of the book of divine decrees) has dried'".
The above verses and hadith are self-explanatory and if well-understood and followed will guide against anxiety.
3. Fear of Allah (Taqwa)
Some people fear poverty, death and powerful men of the world but Islam teaches that only Allah should be feared because He alone has absolute power. He is the Most Merciful and the Most Strict in punishment. No one can safe himself and others from the punishment of Allah except by doing good things and believe in Allah. The punishment of Allah is incomparable with the suffering due to poverty or inflicted by powerful men of the world. All sufferings of the world are temporary while the punishment of Allah is eternal. Again, this teaching guides against anxiety. Allah says:
"It is only the Satan that suggests to you the fear of his votaries; be ye not afraid of them, but fear Me, if you have faith" (Q3:175). "...And for those who fear Allah, He prepares a way out, and He provides for them from (sources) they never could expect. And if any one puts his trust in Allah, sufficient is Allah for him"(Q65:2-3).
4. Patience, Perseverance and Prayer (Saber and Du'a)
There is a popular saying that: 'To be fore-warned is to be fore-armed '. Islam prepares the minds of Muslims for the worst so that they will not be disappointed or miserable when an unfavorable event happens to them. It is a known fact in Psychology that the worst disappointment that usually leads to depression is that that happens to a person that does not believe it can happen to him/her or the person that least expect it. Allah says: "For sure We shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods, lives and fruits (of your toil), but give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere- who say, when afflicted with calamity: 'To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return'."(Q2:155-156). " So verily, with every hardship there is relief. Verily, with every hardship there is
relief"(Q94:5-6). "What is the matter with you? How judge ye? Or have you a book through which you learn that you shall have all that you choose (or desire)? Or have you an oaths from us, reaching to the day of Ressurection that yours will be what you demand? Ask them which of them will stand surety for that"(Q68:35-40). "O ye who believe! seek help with patient, perseverance and prayer; for Allah is with those who patiently persevere" (Q2:153).
The Holy Prophet, Muhammad (PBUH) was reported to have said: " Be moderate and stand firm in trouble that falls to the lot of a Muslim, for it is an expiation (for his sins) for him, even the stumbling on the path or the pricking of a thorn"(Muslim 6243). "Everything that happens to a Muslim is good. If Allah gives him what he desires, he thanks Allah and Allah will reward him. And if Allah tests him with adversity, he exercise patience and perseverance and Allah will forgive his sins and elevate him spiritually"(Muslim). All these will prevent depression if well understood and followed.
However, some so-called 'religious persons' preach miracle and that it is unusual for people to have problems. This is really strange because if one study the life of all the prophets (PBUT) of Allah (Jesus(PBUH) inclusive) one will be amazed with the problems and trials that befell each of them.
For example, Abraham did not have any child till he became old, and Allah tested him but he exercised patience and perseverance and Allah exalted him and made him the father of faith and a friend of Allah. Similarly, Job was tried with adversity, he became sick and lost all his properties. He did not look for miracle but he exercised patience and perseverance, and prayed then Allah blessed him. So, we should be ready for our own trials. We should pray that Allah should not test us with what we have not the strength to bear and we should know that after every hardship is ease (Q94:5-6).
5. Remembrance of Allah (Dhikr)
Allah says: "Those who believe, and whose hearts find satisfaction in the remembrance of Allah; for without doubt in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find satisfaction"(Q13:28). "...And establish regular prayer: for prayer restrains from shameful and evil deeds; and the remembrance of Allah is the greatest (things in life) without doubt. And Allah knows what you do"(Q29:45)
A popular saying is: "An idle mind is a workshop of Satan". The psychologists say that idleness and/or boredom can cause psychological problem especially in teenagers. Islam teaches Muslims to avoid idleness or boredom by engaging in dhikr which include the five daily obligatory prayers, reading the Holy Qur'an and hadith and saying some words to praise Allah.
If the above teachings of Islam are understood and practiced, one will be free from prolonged depression and anxiety that can lead to illness. May Allah have mercy on us, may He make it easy for us to follow His commandments. Wa salamu alaykum warahamotullahi wabarakatuh.
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Momodou
Denmark
11723 Posts |
Posted - 09 Apr 2010 : 21:17:13
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In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.
THE PILLARS OF ISLAM(2)
Praise be to Allah Who has sent to His Servant(Muhammad) the Book(Qurn) and has allowed therein no Crookedness: (He has made it) Straight (and Clear) in order that He may warn (the godless) of a terrible Punishment from Him and that He may give Glad Tidings to the Believers who work righteous deeds that they shall have a goodly Reward(Paradise). Wherein they shall remain forever: Further that He may warn those (also) who say "Allah has begotten a son": No knowledge have they of such a thing nor had their fathers. It is a grievous thing that issues from their mouths as a saying. What they say is nothing but falsehood! Q18:1-5.
The Second Pillar- The Five Obligatory Prayers (Salah)
This was the first act of worship that was made obligatory by Allah. Its obligation was revealed directly to the Prophet, during his ascension to heaven." Glory to (Allah) Who did take His Servant for Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque whose precincts We did Bless in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for He is the one Who hears and sees (all things).". Q17:1. Also Anas relates, "The prayers were made obligatory on the Prophet, upon whom be peace, the night of his ascension to heaven. At first, they were fifty in number, but were reduced several times until they were five. Then it was proclaimed, 'O Muhammad, the order is not changed. These five are (equivalent) to the fifty.''(Ahmad, an Nasa'i and at-Tirmidhi)
This Salah translated as prayer is different from mere supplication (du) but it entails standing, reciting the Qur'an off hand, bowing, prostrating and sitting. It is obligatory on all matured Muslims, it is so important that it must be observed even during war, sickness and travelling. It differentiates Muslims from non-Muslims and it is the first act of worship that will be examined on the Day of Judgement. 'Abdullah ibn Qart related that the Messenger of Allah, upon whom be peace, said "The first act that the servant of Allah will be accountable for on the Day of Judgement will be prayer(Salah). If it is good, then the rest of his acts will be good.
And if it is evil, then the rest of his acts will be evil." '(at-Tabarani.)
Allah, the Exalted, informs us of the importance of salah in the following verses:
Recite what is sent of the Book by inspiration to thee and establish
Regular Prayer: for Prayer restrains from shameful and unjust deeds; and remembrance of Allah is the greatest (thing in life) without doubt. And Allah knows the (deeds) that ye do.Q29.45
Allah commanded Moses (PBUH): "Verily I am Allah: there is no god but I: so worship thou me (only) and establish regular prayer for My remembrance."Q20:14
Successful indeed are the believers who are humble in their prayers. And who (strictly) guard their prayers.Q23:1&9
So woe to the worshippers. Who are neglectful(heedless) of their Prayers.
Those who (want but) to be seen (of men). But refuse (to supply) (even) neighborly needs.Q107:4-7
Prerequisite for Prayer (Salah)
1. The time of Prayer must have begun. " ... Verily, the prayer is enjoined on the believers at fixed times."Q4:103
2. Free from major and minor impurities." O ye who believe! when ye prepare for prayer wash your faces and your hands (and arms) to the elbows; rub your heads (with water); and (wash) your feet to the ankles.
If ye are in a state of ceremonial impurity bathe your whole body. But if ye are ill or on a journey or one of you comes from offices of nature or ye have been in contact with women and ye find no water then take for yourselves clean sand or earth and rub therewith your faces and hands.
Allah does not wish to place you in a difficulty but to make you clean and to complete His favor to you that ye may be grateful."Q5:6
3. Properly dressed. A man must cover at least from his navel to knees while a woman must cover her whole body except her face and hands." O children of Adam! wear your beautiful apparel at every time and place of prayer: eat and drink: but waste not by excess for Allah loveth not the wasters."Q7:31
4. Facing the Qiblah." To each is a goal to which Allah turns him; then strive together (as in a race) toward all that is good. Wheresoever ye are Allah will bring you together. For Allah hath power over all things.
From whencesoever thou stand forth (for prayer) turn thy face in the direction of the Sacred Mosque; that is indeed the truth from thy Lord.
And Allah is not unmindful of what ye do." Q2: 148-9.
There is also the call to prayer (Adhan) to remind Muslims when it is time for prayer. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was reported to have said that Muslims should pray as they saw him prayed. And Allah, the Exalted, says: " It is not fitting for a Believer man or woman when a matter has been decided by Allah and His Apostle to have any option about their decision: if anyone disobeys Allah and His Apostle he is indeed on a clearly wrong Path."Q33:36. Those that say that they will only follow the Holy Qurn and not the practices(Sunnah) of the Holy Prophet Muhammad(PBUH) should note this. The number of rakas of each salah is not mention in the Quran but is found in the sunnah of the Prophet.
The Third Pillar: Alms Giving (Zakat)
One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word zakat means both 'purification' and 'growth'. Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need, and, like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth. Each Muslim calculates his or her own zakat individually. For most purposes this involves the payment each year of two and a half percent of one's capital.
Zakat is for rich people and it is paid to the Islamic government or the Islamic Organization to which one belongs. The Zakat is use to run the Islamic State and to take care of the poor.
Every Muslim is enjoined to give as much as he or she pleases as charity (sadaqa), and does so preferably in secret. Although this word can be translated as 'voluntary charity' it has a wider meaning. The Prophet (PBUH) said: 'Even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is charity.'
The Prophet (PBUH) said: 'Charity is a necessity for every Muslim.' He was asked: 'What if a person has nothing?' The Prophet (PBUH) replied: 'He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity.' The Companions asked: 'What if he is not able to work?' The Prophet (PBUH) said: 'He should help poor and needy persons.' The Companions further asked 'What if he cannot do even that?' The Prophet (PBUH) said 'He should urge others to do good.' The Companions said 'What if he lacks that also?' The Prophet (PBUH) said 'He should check himself from doing evil. That is also charity.'
The Fourth Pillar - Fasting (Saum)
"O ye who believe! fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you that ye may (learn) self-restraint. (Fasting) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill or on a journey the prescribed number (should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (with hardship) is a ransom the feeding of one that is indigent.
But he that will give more of his own free will it is better for him and it is better for you that ye fast if ye only knew. Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an as a guide to mankind also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong). So everyone of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting but if anyone is ill or on a journey the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful."Q2:183-5
Allah's Apostle said, "Allah said, 'All the deeds of Adam's sons (people) are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.' Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. If one of you is fasting, he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarreling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, 'I am fasting.' By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, the unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting.(Al-Bukhari)
The Fifth Pillar: The Pilgrimage (Hajj)
The annual pilgrimage to Makkah, the Hajj, is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to perform it. Nevertheless, about two million people go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another. Although Makkah is always filled with visitors, the annual Hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that Hajj and Ramadan fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments which strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God.
The rites of the Hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include circling the Ka'ba seven times, and going seven times between the mountains of Safa and Marwa. Then the pilgrims stand together on the wide plain of Arafah and join in prayers for God's forgiveness. The close of the Hajj is marked by a festival, the Eid al-Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This, and the Eid al-Fitr, a feast-day commemorating the end of Ramadan, are the main festivals of the Muslim calendar.
It is important to mention that fighting in the cause of Allah(Jihad), although it is not a pillar in Islam, is equally very important and every Muslim must be prepared to participate in Jihad when situation demands for it. This is what protects Islamic State and the dignity of Muslims. Allah, the Exalted says, "O ye who believe! shall I lead you to a bargain that will save you from a grievous Penalty? That ye believe in Allah and His Apostle and that ye strive (your utmost) in the Cause of Allah with your property and your persons: that will be best for you if ye but knew! He will forgive you your sins and admit you to Gardens beneath which rivers flow and to beautiful mansions in Gardens of Eternity: that is indeed the supreme Achievement."Q61: 10-12. Abu Huraiah(RA) relates, "The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: One who died but did not fight in the way of Allah nor did he express any desire (or determination) for Jihad died the death of a hypocrite."(Muslim 4696)
There are three levels of Jihad: (1) Jihad of the mind- to hate evil and oppression of people, (2) Jihad of the tongue - to preach against evil and oppression, and (3) Jihad in person - fighting with weapon against evil and oppression.
Alihamdulillah robil 'alamin. Wa solatu wasalamu la nobiyyi Muhammad(SAW).
REFERENCE: AS-SAYYID SABIQ.(Translated by Muhammad Saeed Dabas and M.S. Kayani) FIQH SUNNAH VOL1-5. American Trust Publications, USA.
Source: Unknown - Posted to Gambia-L by M.Saidy 10 May 1999 |
A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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concort
365 Posts |
Posted - 10 Apr 2010 : 09:04:10
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| Thank you for sharing, Momodou. May Allah reward you for your efforts. |
As Salamu Alaikum Waramatullah Wabarakatu |
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tamsier
United Kingdom
557 Posts |
Posted - 12 Apr 2010 : 08:20:08
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‘Islam is a perfect way of life, it teaches things that will make this world and the Hereafter a peaceful abode for mankind.’
‘It is important to mention that fighting in the cause of Allah(Jihad), although it is not a pillar in Islam, is equally very important and every Muslim must be prepared to participate in Jihad when situation demands for it.’
Uuuum!!!!
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Tamsier
Serere heritage. Serere religion. Serere to the end.
Roog a fa ha. |
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Momodou
Denmark
11723 Posts |
Posted - 12 Apr 2010 : 08:22:46
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"There are three levels of Jihad: (1) Jihad of the mind- to hate evil and oppression of people, (2) Jihad of the tongue - to preach against evil and oppression, and (3) Jihad in person - fighting with weapon against evil and oppression."
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A clear conscience fears no accusation - proverb from Sierra Leone |
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tamsier
United Kingdom
557 Posts |
Posted - 12 Apr 2010 : 09:57:19
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So our ancestors were an evil bunch when Islam was forced upon them? The Sereres of Naodourou were also an evil bunch when the villagers committed suicide rather than face conversion at the Battle of Naodourou?
Good to know. |
Tamsier
Serere heritage. Serere religion. Serere to the end.
Roog a fa ha. |
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turk
USA
3356 Posts |
Posted - 13 Apr 2010 : 22:22:12
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Can Muslims here share their knowledge and enjoy their spiritual activities without constantly being attacked and harrassed by this bigot?
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diaspora! Too many Chiefs and Very Few Indians.
Halifa Salah: PDOIS is however realistic. It is fully aware that the Gambian voters are yet to reach a level of political consciousness that they rely on to vote on the basis of Principles, policies and programmes and practices. |
Edited by - turk on 14 Apr 2010 04:59:12 |
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Momodou
Denmark
11723 Posts |
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| Bantaba in Cyberspace |
© 2005-2024 Nijii |
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