Husband Smoking Marijuana

Q: What's the faith of a woman who distances herself from a husband who smokes marijuana?

A: A wife has to remain fatihful towards her husband as long as she is married to him. She has to continue to fulfill the rights of the marriage as commanded by Shariah. Therefore, even if the husband is onto drugs or marijuana, she has to still maintain his rights. Perhaps the husband needs help to overcome this problem. The wife could provide some assistance. However, if this habit of the husband causes him to continuously break her rights and not fulfill marital dues, then the wife may seek a divorce or annulment. But that must be determined by local Ulema who will study and judge the case on its merits.
If by "distancing" you mean that the wife remains in nikah but keeps aloof from her husband, then although this is permissible, but she still has to fulfill the rights of nikah. If him being in that state causes grief and anguish to the wife during sexual relations, then she is allowed not to allow him access to her body while he is under the influence of marijuana.

And Allah knows best.

I suggest a couple facing this problem go to local Ulema for counselling and help. May Allah bring about a cure to this evil, aameen.

Falling in Love with Sheikh

Q: When I listen to any sheikh, I fall in love with him. I am 15 years old. What can I do?

A: This is the trick of Shaytaan and the Nafs. By involving you in this 'love' for the Shaykh, Shaytaan is preventing you from the actual purpose of listening to the Shaykh, which is Deeni benefit.
You should observe strict Hijaab from these Shaykhs.
You should refrain from listening to the Shaykhs for a period of time, until you can rid yourself of this malady. Gain knowledge, etc. from female teachers, read Deeni books, etc. This 'love' will eventually make you fantasize, which is Haraam. Save yourself by refraining from listening to them. Recite in abundance:

لَا حَوْلَ وَ لَا قُوَّةَ اِلَّا بِاللهِ
LAA HAULA WA LAA QUWWATA ILLAA BILLAAH

Tell yourself that these Shaykhs may be teaching and reciting beautifully, but are much elder than you, and old enough to be your father. You should respect them as you would respect your father, and not entertain any illicit thoughts regarding them.
May Allah Ta'aala make it easy for you. Aameen.

Prepared by:
Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Belly Piercing

Q: Is belly piercing haraam (prohibited)?

A: Belly-piercing is sinful in Islam because it is practice of belle dancers and prostitutes. The Holy Quran and Noble Hadith of Our Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) prohibit the imitation of cultures and styles of lewd and evil people. Hence piercing of the stomach is not permissible.

Mufti Siraj Desai

Maximum Amount a Lady Can Uncover

Q: What is the maximum amount of herself that a woman can uncover in the presence of ghair-mahrams?

A: In cases of necessity a female may expose her hands and face. However, it is ultimately better that she covers her face, too, for the 'Ulema have ruled that in times of corruption a woman should not even expose her face. The features of the face inevitably attract the looks and attentions of men. (Raddul Muhtaar V26 P398)

Prepared by:
Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Correct Pronunciation of Arabic Letters

Q: What is the correct pronunciation of Arabic letters?

A: Proper pronuniciation of Arabic letters can only be acquired from a qualifed Qaari or Hafiz. This cannot be obtained or learnt from writings. However. there is one point that we can provide guidance on, and that is the Arabic alphabet must not be uttered like the Urdu alphabet. For example one should say Baa, Taa, Thaa, Raa, Zaa, Haa, Khaa, etc., and not Be Te Se, etc.as is normally said for the Urdu letters. Beyond this, I reiterate, one has to go to a qualified Qaari for such learning.

Issued by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

When was the Zaboor (Psalms) Revealed

Q: When was the zaboor (original Psalms) revealed?

A: The zaboor was revealed in the time of Prophet Dawood (David alayhis salam) during the middle of the month of Ramadaan. This has been mentioned by Imam Suyooti in his book Al-Itqaan.

Mufti Siraj Desai

Istikhaara and no Dream

Q: I read istikhara but did not see any dream. What do I do?

A: In istikhara it is not necessary that one will see a dream, or that the dream will clearly show which course of action to take. Sometimes one will be overtaken with a strong feeling to adopt one course of action, then that too, is an answer to the istikhara. Sometimes it depends on what one is making istikhara for.
If you need further clarification then perhaps you should tell us what were you making istikhara for and whether after the istikhara you had expereinced any strong inclination towards a particular action.

Mufti Siraj Desai

Marital Conflict and Seeking Advice

Q: I need to find advice with regard to the situation I find myself in at the moment.It relates to my marriage.Please advise me as to who I can seek some advice and direction from.

A: Seek counsel from the Ulama in your area, or elder members of your family, or elders of your area, especially those who are steadfast on the Deen (religion of Islam).
May Allah Ta'aala grant you ease. Aameen.


Shukran

Father Teaching Son to Shave Pubic Area

Q: I am father. My son is 14 years old and has to shave his pubic area. Can I do it for him once in order to advice him?

A: The father cannot shave the pubic hair of his son since this entails exposure of the satar or private areas. The boy should do it himself. The father can advise him what to do and how to do it, but cannot physically show him. This is haraam.

Was salaam
Mufti Siraj Desai

Dyeing Grey Hair for Husband

Q: I am a woman. Is it haram (prohibited) to dye grey hair to add to my beauty for my hus band to see?

A: It is permissible to dye the hair for the sake of your husband but not black. as this is forbidden by the Hadith of Our Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Also, do not use dye which contains Haraam ingredients.

Mufti Siraj Desai

Wife Leaving Islam

Q: My wife accepted Islam because I asked her, now she doesn't want to be Muslim. Do I leave her?

A: If she has already left Islam, get some learned people to speak to her to remove her doubts and convince her about Islam. If she agrees to come back into the fold of Islam, renew your Nikah with her. During this period of trying to persuade her to come back into the fold, sexual relations and intimacy (kissing, etc) are not permissible. If she refuses to return to Islam then you will have to leave her. You cannot be married to her as long as she remains out of the Deen of Islam.

Prepared by: Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Husband Sucking Wife's Breasts and Drinking Breast Milk

Q: Can a husband suck the milk of his wife's breast and does it effect the Nikkah (marriage)?

A: If the husband sucks the wife's breasts and drinks the breast-milk, the Nikah is not affected in any way. The wife does not become haraam upon the husband. However, even though the nikah remains intact, it is not permissible to drink the wife's breast-milk. (Qaadhi Khan and Fataawa Rahimiyyah v.2 p.112)

Prepared by: Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Identifying Dead Female as Muslim or not

Q: If a dead body of a female is found, how we can recognise that she was a Muslim or a non Muslim?

A: If one is aware that Muslim women in the area use mehndi. or dress in a certain way, or apply a certain makeup peculiar to Muslims then this could be used as signs to determine the religion of the deceased female. Other that this, there is no way to ascertain from her body whether she is Muslim or not.
In that case you need to do the following:
a) Check for identification on her.
b) Ask people in the area where her body was found. Perhaps someone will know her.
c) Find out from the police and the 'Missing Persons Bureau' if someone with her description has been reported missing.
In the absence of proper identification from the above sources, one should use discretion. If the heart strongly feels that the deceased is a Muslim then give her an Islamic burial. If not, then wrap the body in one or two pieces of cloth, dig a hole and bury it. There will be no duas, janaaza salaah, etc.

Prepared by:
Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Females Removing Hair and Nails Before Qurbani

Q: Is it permissable for females to remove hair and cut nails in the 10 days before slaughtering Qurbani (Udhiyyah)?

A: It is permissible for males and females to remove hair during this period. There is no sin in doing so. However, there is reward for leaving the nails and hari till after Qurbani.

Mufti Siraj Desai

Takafol

Q: Can one take out insurance with the company called Takafol South Africa (Pty) Ltd?

A: Takafol Souht Africa is certified and overseen by senior Muftis and local Ulema. So to take out Islamic insurance with Takafol will be permitted.

Leaving Home During Iddat When Life is in Danger

Q: Can a woman leave her home at time of her iddat if her life is in danger?

A: If a woman observing iddat is in real danger of losing life or limb, or she suffers from acute fear when alone, then she may leave her home and stay in a safer place. (Fataawa Hindiyyah V1 P535, Aljauharatun Nayyirah V4 P310)

Mufti Siraj Desai

Reasons for Refusing to Follow a Person in Salaah

Q: What reasons, if any, based upon which you can refuse to follow a particular person in salaah?

A: Only such a person should be appointed as Imaam whom people are pleased with. But their disapproval should be based on valid Islamic grounds, not on personal motives or unsubstantiated claims. If the Imaam falls under the category of 'faasiq', he should be replaced, but as long as he leads the congregation, people should continue to offer salaah behind him. It is better to perform Salaah behind a faasiq than performing it alone. A faasiq is one who commits a major sin openly at least twice, or commits minor sins on a continuous basis without taubah.
If a person holds a kufr belief, such as beliefs of Qadianis, Bahaais, Shias, etc. then he cannot be appointed as Imaam for salaah. In fact salaah behind him is not valid for that man is not a Muslim. The only valid reason for refusing to perform salaah behind an Imaam is if he maintains views and beliefs that are clear-cut kufr (disbelief, apostasy).
And Allah Knows Best

Mufti Siraj Desai

Proofs for Taqleed (Following) a Math-hab

Q: Is it necessary to follow any one the Madhabs? If yes, what are the authenticated Hadheeth proofs?

A: Taqleed of one Alim or Imam can be proven from The Quran-e-Kareem, Ahadeeth of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), and practices of Sahaaba. We cite a few examples:

► Allah Ta'ala states in Surah Ambiyaa, verse 7: "And ask the People of the Book, if you have no knowledge" In this verse Allah Ta'ala commands those who have no knowledge of their Deen to ask those who are learned. This is exactly what taqleed is all about, the non-learned finding out from the learned.
► In Surah Luqman, Allah Ta'ala commands: "And follow the path of he who has turned to Me;" Further on in this treatise we will explain that a math-hab means a path or method of Fiqah. Indirectly, the above verse orders us to follow the 'math-hab' of people who made inaabat ilallah, i.e. turned to Allah in taqwa and good a'maal. Such virtue is not found more prominently in any besides the four great Imams of the past.
► In one hadith Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) commanded: "Speak about the Quran (only) that which you know. As for that which you do not know, leave it to the Alim of the Quran." (Mishkaatul Masaabeeh) The Messenger of Allah also commanded: "And grab hold of the guidance of Ibni Mas'ud ". (Ibid) These statements are clear instructions to make taqleed of one Alim.
► When Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (radhiyallahu anhu) took up temporary residence in Makka, most of the Muslims there made his taqleed in all laws of Shariah, and even gave preference to his fatwas over those of other Sahaaba-e-Kiraam (radhiyallahu anhum) who were permanent residents of Makka Mukarrama. (Al-Hujjatullahil Baaligha)
► When Muslims of Madinah came to Makka for hajj and were faced with a problem regarding the hajj of a woman in her menses, they acted on the fatwa of their Mufti, Hazrat Zaid bin Thabit (radhiyallahu anhu). Meanwhile, the ruling issued by Hazrat Ibni Abbas on the same issue differed with the fatwa of Zaid bin Thaabit, yet the people of Madinah made taqleed of the latter. (Saheeh Al-Bukhari)

These few examples provide irrefutable evidence that taqleed-e-shakhsi, which is the following of one Alim or Imam, is an indispensable part of Shariah.
Ulema of the past two centuries are unanimous that taqleed of a math-hab is wajib, because without following a math-hab one cannot truly practice on one's religion.

Issued by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Adulterer Marrying a Chaste Woman

Q: If a man who has comitted zina (adultery) repents and wishes to marry a chaste woman, is this halaal?

A: If one has repented from zinaa and wished to marry a chaste woman or a virgin, this is totally permissible; there is nothing stopping that person from doing so. The nikah will be valid and there is no sin of any sort.

Mufti Siraj Desai

Kissing and Secretions from Private Parts

Q: While husband and wife are simply kissing each other and secretions come out from the private parts, will Ghusal be necessary?

A: This depends on the type of secretion. If the secretion is mazhi, wudhu breaks but ghusl is not necessary. The area will have to be washed and the soiled clothes will either have to be changed or washed. Mazi is a sticky, colourless liquid that is discharged from the private part at the time of arousal. If the discharge was that of mani or semen then ghusl becomes necessary. Mani is a thickish fluid, the colour of which varies from whitish to yellowish, and is discharged through ejaculation or orgasm. The difference between mazhi and mani is that the former emerges gradually and without force, whilst the latter is emitted with force and all at once.

Prepared by: Moulana Yusuf Laher

Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Is Qurbaani Once in a Lifetime

Q: If you have made qurbani before do you have to do every year?

A: Qurbani is an annual act of worship, like fasting and zakaat. It is not a once-in-a-lifetime act, as Hajj. If the conditions that make Qurbani compulsory are found in any year, Qurbani will be compulsory for that year. Making Qurbani previously does not absolve one from Qurbani in the future years.

Prepared by:
Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and approved by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Law Contradicting Qur'aan

Q: If we find some law of our madhab contradicting Quran (like the way of divorce as in Hanafi madhab) should we still follow it ignoring the Quran, or should we follow the word of Allah?

A: Firstly understand that the laws of the Madhab do not contradict the Qur'aan, but are taken from the Qur'aan and Sunnah. Our lack of understanding and in-depth Deeni knowledge makes it seem as if the Madhabs contradict the Qur'aan and Sunnah. This is a false notion.
Furthermore, we are not aware of any method of Talaaq in the Hanafi Madhab that contradicts the Qur'aan. Please elaborate.

Prepared by: Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Qurbani for a New Born Child

Q: If we do Qurbani for our newborn baby, do we get reward?

A: There is no qurbani for a new born baby. Instead the Shariah has ordained aqeeqa for a new born baby. This is mentioned in hadith and The Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) made aqeeqa for his grandsons. Hence, aqeeqa will be more rewarding and it also serves as a means of protection for the child.

Qurbani for a Deceased

Q: Is qurbani allowed on behalf of a deceased person?

A: One is allowed to make Qurbani for a deceased. This is substantiated from the books of Hadeeth and Fiqh.
Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) requested Sayyidina Ali (Radhiyallaahu Anhu) to offer Qurbani on his behalf after his demise, as mentioned in Tirmidhi (V.4, p.84), and Abu Dawood (v.3 p.50.).
It is stated in the Fiqh work Raddul Muhtaar (v. 6, p. 404) of Allaamah Ibn Aabideen that a man is allowed to convey the rewards of his good deeds such as prayers, fasting, charity, hajj, etc. to another.
In Hidaayah, a renowned Hanafi Fiqh book, it is clearly stated that when one offers charity the intention of reward should include all believing men and women.
This is the belief of the Ahlus-Sunnah wal Jamaa'ah.

Prepared by: Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai

Muslim Woman Marrying a Christian Man

Q: Is it allowed in Islam for a Muslim woman to marry a Christian man or one who has converted to Islam?

A: It is not permissible for a Muslim lady to marry a Christian man, unless he converts to Islam. It is reported by Imam Abu Dawood that Abdullah bin Abbas (radhiyallahu anhu), who had divinely been appointed as the Chief of Commentators of the Quran, said: "As regards the verse: 'And do not marry polytheistic women (mushrikaat)', marriage to women of the Ahle-Kitaab have been excluded therefrom, for such women are halaal for Muslim men. However, Muslim females have been prohibited from marrying their (Ahl-e-Kitab) men. The same fatwa has been narrated from Imam Hazan and Imam Mujahid, and it is the view of Hanafi and Shaafi'ee Scholars. (Tafseerul Aaloosi v.2 p.216)

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and approved by
Mufti Siraj Desai

Eating Shark Meat

Q: Is it permissible for us to eat shark meat?

A: Shark falls under the category of fish, hence it is halaal. The hadith mentioned that among sea cretures, only fish is halaal. Therefore, any creature of the sea that belongs to the cateogry of fish, will be halaal for consumption.

Hajj and Menstruation

Q: Can a lady performe haj during menstruation?

A: All the acts of Hajj can be performed during menstruation, i.e. Wuqoof at Arafah, Muzdalifah, stoning, etc., except the Tawaaf. Tawaaf, be it Ziyarat or Widaa', may not be performed in the state of menstruation. The woman will have to wait till she is clean before performing the tawaaf.
Tawaaf and entering a Masjid in the condition of menstruation is not permissible.

Divorced Lady and Qurbani

Q: Is it incumbant upon a single (divorced) female to perform qurbani?

A: If qurbani is wajib (obligatory) upon this dirvorcee then she will be have to do it. Qurbani becomes wajib if one has extra money that is equal to the nisab of zakaat, or one has any item such as furniture, equipment, machinery, etc. that is not in daily use and has a value of the nisab. Find out the exact value of nisaab from your local Imam or Aalim.

Too Much Sex from Wife

Q: How can I stop wanting too much sex from my wife?

A: The hadith states: "Verily, your body has a right over you." Over- indulgence in sex leads to physical and mental weakness, and subsequent failure to fulfil acts of worship and other important social activities. You should spend more time in recitation of the Qur'aan, Zikr of Allah, and reading Deeni books, etc. Although sex with the wife is absolutely permissible, there must be a balance in these matters. Make an effort to wake up daily for tahajjud, for this ibadat has a great effect on the carnal desires.

Men Shaving Chest Hair

Q: Is trimming or shaving of chest hair allowed for Muslim men?

A: It is permissible to remove the hair from the chest; there is no sin in this. However, it is advisable not to do so. It was not the sunnah of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) to shave the chest. (Al-Fatawwal Hindiyyah)

And Allah knows best.

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Women Attending Eidgah

Q: Can women take part in the eidgah?

A: FEMALE ATTENDANCE OF EID SALAH:
OVERVIEW OF THE MATHAA-HIB

The Hanafi View
It is stated in the Fiqh Encyclopaedia of Kuwait that according to the Hanafi math-hab, young girls and attractive women are prohibited from attending the Eid salah. As for old women, they are allowed to attend Eid on condition that they dress inconspicuously, avoid the use of perfume, and do not mingle with men to and from the Eidgah. This viewpoint of the Hanafi School is enunciated in every one of the renowned works of Fiqh, such as Fathul-Qadeer, Raddul-Muhtaar, Al-Bahrur-Raaiq, Al-Badaa’I, Al-Hindiyyah, etc. There is, therefore, no difference on this score according to Hanafis.

The Shaafi View
We once again turn to the book of Imam Nawawi, Al-Majmoo’. He states therein:
“Imam Shaafi’ and Scholars of his math-hab state that it is mustahabb (meritorious) for non-attractive females to attend the Eid salah. As for attractive females and women of exquisite beauty, it is forbidden for them to attend. This is the categorical statement of the math-hab and the definite ruling of the majority of (Shaafi’) Scholars.

Imam Raafi’e mentioned another view, which states that it is not mustahabb even for non attractive women to attend Eid salah. But this view has not been preferred by Ulema. When these (non-attractive) women do attend, they should don clothes that are simple and non-appealing. They should also avoid perfume. This is the ruling for elderly ladies who are past the age of desire. As for the young females and attractive (middle-aged) women, it is forbidden for them to attend the Eid salah due to the possibility of fitnah (zinaa) in their emergence.

If someone argues that this is contrary to the hadith of Umme Atiyyah (radhiyallah anha) (in which Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam allowed females to attend Eid salah), we will respond by quoting the statement of Hazrat Ayesha (radhiyallahu anha) that appears in Saheeh Bukhari and Saheeh Muslim: ‘Had The Messenger of Allah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam witnessed the things women have introduced (after him), he would have prevented them (from the Masaajid) like the women of Bani Israel were banned.’

Furthermore, the fitnah in today’s times are far greater compared to the time of Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam. Imam Shaafi (RA) states in Al-Umm: It is far more desirable to me that elderly ladies attend Eid Salah instead of the other faradh salah.” (Al-Majmoo’ of Nawawi)

It is stated in Al-Mausoo’atul Fiqhiyya (Encyclopaedia of Fiqh, Kuwait):
“The Maliki, Hambali, and Shaafi’ Scholars have taken the view of prohibition for young and attractive females attending the Eidayn, due to the fitnah that lurks in such emergence. When old women emerge they should do so in simple, un-appealing dress.”

In Tuhfatul-Muhtaaj the following appears:
“It is sunnat for elderly women who are past the stage of desire to attend Eid salah and jamaat salah, in shabby, simply clothing, without any perfume. They should cleanse themselves with just water before emerging. If they apply perfume or dress in their finery and ornaments, then for these old women, too, it will be forbidden to attend, like it is forbidden for the young girls and women of fine looks and stature. Instead, these women should offer their salah at home.”

A SUMMARY OF THE ABOVE
The ruling of all four Schools of Fiqh emerges quite clearly from the above: In today’s times there lurks great fitnah in the emergence of young and attractive women for Eid salah, hence all mathaa-hib prohibit their attendance for Eid and even for the five daily salah. For old women and ladies who are beyond the stage of being attracted to men or being the cause of attraction for men, the condition for their emergence is that they dress in plain, simple, and old garments, and avoid the use of jewellery and perfume.

QUESTION: How can the Mathaa-hib prohibit women from the Eid Salah when The Messenger of Allah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam allowed them to attend, in fact ordered that they attend, as it appears in the authentic work of Imam Bukhari (RA)?

ANSWER: This objection betrays lack of understanding of sunnah. It must be born in mind that we are commanded to follow the Sunnah, not a particular hadith. Sunnah is the broader picture of Deen, comprising the practices of Rasoolullah and his illustrious Sahaaba. Sunnah is the collective application of different ahadeeth as well as statements of Sahaaba. The big mistake modern-day “mujtahids” and those aligned to the Salafi ideology fall into is the misconception that one must follow ‘hadith’ while disregarding the broader Sunnah of Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam and his illustrious Companions. When following a particular hadith one is bound to discard other ahadeeth on the subject, and end up discarding many authentic ahadeeth. The Imams and Jurists of Islam (may Allah Ta’ala be pleased with them) played a great role in codifying Islam, defining the parameters of Sunnah, and extrapolating the Laws ad Injunctions of Islam from Quran and Sunnah. Through these great efforts today we, the followers of the math-hab, find it easy to practice on Islam, and the Sunnah in particular.

Therefore, in our times no Muslim may use a hadith to contradict or oppose a practice of the Sahaaba, for this infers that a Sahaabi of Rasool is doing something of Deen contrary to his Rasool. This is not possible. How can a Sahaabi, who understood The Messenger of Allah far better than any person from among latter generations, ever dare contradict the command of Rasool sallallahu alaihi wa sallam? How is it possible for people like Umar bin Khattab, a walking Jannati on earth, and Ayesha Siddeeqa, whose chastity was affirmed by not one but ten long verses of the Holy Quran, issue fatwa contrary to the command and instruction of Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam? Who can make the audacious and bold claim that it is preferable to follow a particular hadith of Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam and discard the practice of the bulk of the Sahaaba?

The dazzling star in the firmament of Islam Knowledge, our Mother Ayesha (radhiyallahu anhaa) said: “If Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam only knew what the women of today are getting up to, he would have stopped them (from the Mosques) like the woman of the Bani Israeel were stopped.”(Bukhari) This statement proves that Hazrat Ayesha understood the Messenger of Allah and his decision of allowing females to attend the Musjid and the Eid Salah during his time. She also affirmed that this concession was confined to his time only, and should not apply to times after him. We challenge anyone to answer this statement of Hazrat Ayesha (radhiyallahu anha)

The Messenger of Allah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam also said: “And adopt my sunnah, and the sunnah of the Khalifas after me; hold fast to it. Clutch onto it with your teeth..” (Tirmizhi)

And Allah Knows Best

Prepared and edited by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Cure for Masturbation

Q: I am addicted to masturbation. I can't help myself and I'm only 13 years old. What can I do?

A: Your important query refers. You should seek counsel with a learned (Aalim), pious person in your area, who can assist and advise you. Ponder over a few points; the physical harms of this harmful act, also the spiritual harms. A person, who excessively commits this act, will not be physically fit for marriage in later life, eyes and memory becomes weak, etc.

Sayyidina Ataa' was asked regarding this. He said that a group of people will be resurrected on Qiyaamah and their hands will be pregnant. It will be these people who had been doing this and did not repent. Their fault will be witnessed by everyone on Qiyaamah.

Sayyidina Sa'eed ibni Jubayr says that Allah will punish those people who play with their private parts.

Stay away from seeing, reading, viewing such people (girls), and material which encourages this act, e.g. magazines, such internet sites, etc. Read Deeni books to build up within you love and fear of Allah.

Ponder regularly over these points and seek advice from a learned person you trust.

Sit alone a few minutes every day thinking about the Power and Punishment of Allah.

Spend a lot of time in the company of an elderly Aalim or pious person. Ponder regularly over these points and seek advice from a learned person you trust.

Make thikr of these words as much as possible:

لاَ حَوْلَ وَ لاَ قُوَّةَ اِلاَّ بِالله

Trans: There is no power to do good, nor strength to abstain from evil, but with Allah.

May Allah Ta'aala assist you in your fight against this disease Aameen.

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Hanafis, Shafis, Malikis, Hambalis

Q: We are Muslims ... not Hanafis, Bukharis, Malikis, Hambalis, or Shafis. Let us live according to the Quran.

A: Are you implying that a Hanafi or Shaafi'ee is not a Muslim? There is nothing further from the truth. Many of us are Hanafi Muslims, Shaafi'ee Muslims, etc. We follow one of these great Imams, who understood the Qur'aan and Sunnah, and laid out the laws of Islam for laymen like us. Following one of them IS following the Qur'aan and Sunnah. Where did they derive the laws that they formulated from? It is gross ignorance to believe that by following one of the Imams, one is not following the Qur'aan and Sunnah. In fact, there is the distinct danger of going completely astray by not following one of these illustrious Imams. Experience has proven that those who do not follow one of these great Imams become confused and misled. By living according to their teachings we are living according to Quran. May Allah Ta'aala guide us to His pleasure. Aameen.

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Unpaid Zakaat

Q: If I had not paid zakaat in Ramadaan, can I pay it after Eid?

A: If zakaat was not paid during Ramadaan, you can and should pay it after Eid. It is sinful to delay the fulfilment of Zakaat once it is due, irrespective of the month. Zakaat becomes compulsory after one Islamic year has passed on one's wealth, whether that year ends in Ramadhaan or any other month. People fulfil their Zakaat in Ramadhaan with the hope of gaining extra reward and because it is easier to keep track of the Islamic year. But if one had not fulfilled the zakaat in Ramadaan, it must be done soon thereafter.

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Waxing Hands While Fasting

Q: Is waxing of hands haram (prohibited) while fasting?

A: Waxing is not Haraam while fasting, nor does it break the fast. However, if this is done for purposes of beauty in imitation of non-Muslims style, then it is not permissible whether one is fasting or not. Doing any sin while fasting is obviously a greater crime. In any case, the fast does not break.

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Short Surahs in Taraweeh

Q: Is it permisible to read short surahs in Taraweeh Namaaz?

A: The Sunnah is to recite the entire Qur'aan at least once in Taraweeh. Short Surahs should only be recited if there is no Hafiz available. Notwithstanding this, the Taraweeh is valid if short Surahs are recited, for short Surahs are also part of the Qur'aan-e-Kareem. (Al-Fataawal Hindiyyah, Fiqhul-Ibadaat)

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Cleaning a Child and Wudhu

Q: Does wudu break if you clean a child's urine or faeces, or if you wash its soiled clothes?

A: According to the Hanafi Madhab, wudhu does not break if one cleaned urine or faeces of a child, or cleaned soiled clothes. In the Shaafi'ee Mathhab too, wudhu does not break, unless the inner palm of the person touches the front or anal private part of the child. If this happens, wudhu will break.

And Allah knows best

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Silsila Idreesia and Shaikh Ameen

Q: Please tell about a sufi in Multan, Pakistan. His name is Shaikh Ameen and follows the Silsila Idreesia.

A: It is the first time we heard of this Sufi sahib and the Silsila Idreesia. Can you perhaps find out more about them and write back to us? This will be greatly appreciated.

Why was Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wa sallam Buried in the House of Hazrat Aisha radhiallahu anha

Q: Hazrat Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wa sallam ko Hazrat Aaisha radhiallahu anhu ke Hujre mai supurd e khaak kiya gaya tha. Why?
Trans: [Why was Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wa sallam buried in the house of Hazrat Aisha radhiallahu anha?]

A: Your query refers, and here is the answer. If you cannot understand the English, we can provide a detailed answer in Urdu. Please write back if need be.

Aap (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) ne farmaya ke Nabi jab marjata he to usko wahee dafan kiyaa jaa-egha jaha pe usne wafaat paa'ee. Aur Aap kee wafat Amma Ayesha ke makan me huwi teeh, lihaazha wahee un ko dafnaa diya ghaya.

Trans: Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) said that a Nabi (prophet) should be buried at the same place where he died. Since Rasuloollah (Sallallaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) passed away in the room of Hadhrat Aa'isha (Radhiyallaahu Anhaa), he was buried there. In fact, he was buried at the very spot where he passed away. The body was moved to one side so that the Sahaaba could dig a grave beneath the spot where he passed away. (Al Khasaa'isul Kubraa – Allaamah Suyuti v.2, p.414).

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Long Hair for Men

Q: Is keeping long hair for man prohibited in Islam?

A: Long hair for a man is allowed if it is kept according to the Sunnah of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi wasallam). According to the books of hadith, the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) had three lengths of hair. One length was till the middle of the ear, the second till the ears, and the third till just above the shoulders. Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) never tied his hair into a pony tail nor did he plait his hair. Hence, the long hair must not resemble the styles of the non-Muslim West for the Quran-e-Kareem and Hadith-e-Shareef have condemned the imitation of disbelievers. Furthermore, hair should not be so long that it resembles the hair of a woman, which normally falls down to the waist or middle of the back. Resemblance of a woman by man is prohibited in a hadith of Bukhari Shareef.

And Allah knows best

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by:
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Pregnancy, Fasting and Fidya

Q: I am 3 months pregnant. I cannot fast because I am weak due to the fact that I cannot eat a lot. Can I give Fidyah?

A: If you have been advised by a Muslim gynaecologist or doctor that fasting will endanger your life or the life of your baby, then you may leave out the fasts. You will then have to observe the aadhaa of these fasts when you are clean after the pregnancy.

Fidyah is only for those who leave out the fast because of a sickness, and do not have hope of ever recovering from that sickness. In fact, even if such a person who had no hope of recovery paid the Fidyah and thereafter recovered, he or she will have to observe qadhaa of the missed fasts. Fidyah is also for those who due to old age cannot observe the fast.

Consuming a Little Alcohol

Q: In the Quraan it says not to have alchohol until you get drunk. So are we allowed to have little of it?

A: Your query refers. What you mentioned in your question is not mentioned anywhere in The Holy Quran. Never did Allah Ta'ala say that you must not have alcohol until you get drunk. In fact, I shall quote two verses of The Holy Quran that strictly condemn alcohol/wine.

1. They ask you about wine and gambling: Say: In these two there is great sin and some benefits for people, but their sin is greater than their benefits. (Al-Quran 2:219)

2. O Believers: Wine, Gambling etc. are filth from the deeds of the Devil, so abstain therefrom so that you may be prosperous. (Al-Quran 5:90)

These verses of Quran do not differentiate between a large amount of a little bit. It states that all amounts of alcohol are haraam. This is also proven from the Hadith of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), who said:
THAT WHICH INTOXICATES IN LARGE AMOUNTS, EVEN A LITTLE OF IT IS HARAAM
(Narrated by Abu Dawood, Nasaa-ee, Ibn Majah, Haakim, Ahmed and others)

In summary, it is totally haraam for a Muslim to consume even such a small amount of alcohol that does not make him drunk.

Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Pig Gelatine

Q: I heard that in the Quraan it says not to eat pig meat. Does it mean we are allowed to have pig gelatine?

A: The pig and all its parts and components are 'Najisul Ayn'. Thus, no part of the pig may be consumed. Gelatine manufactured from pig is, therefore, totally haraam. Allah Ta'ala says in the Holy Quran: "It (the pig) is filth" (Surah 6, verse 145). This verse proofs that every part of the pig is filth and haraam for consumption.

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Pig Meat

Q: In a masjid I attend, I heard that in the Quraan it says not to eat pig meat. Is this true?

A: Yes, verse 173, Surah 2; verse 3, Surah 5; and verse 145, Surah 6, all prohibit the eating of pork.

إِنَّمَا حَرَّمَ عَلَيْكُمُ الْمَيْتَةَ وَالدَّمَ وَلَحْمَ الْخِنْزِيرِ وَمَا أُهِلَّ بِهِ لِغَيْرِ اللَّهِ فَمَنِ اضْطُرَّ غَيْرَ بَاغٍ وَلَا عَادٍ فَلَا إِثْمَ عَلَيْهِ إِنَّ اللَّهَ غَفُورٌ رَحِيمٌ

Prepared by Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and Ratified by
Mufti Siraj Desai, Darul-Uloom Abubakr, Malabar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa

School and Juma Salaah

Q: I am not traveling but I need to go to school. What do I do about Juma Salaat?

A: Juma Salah is faradh upon every baaligh Muslim male, hence it is not permissible to miss out the Juma salah. This has been severely condemned in hadith. If you are schooling, it is necessary for you to ask permission from your school for leave to offer Juma prayers. Many schools do grant this, and we make dua that your school, too, will make a concession for you. aameen. In seeking this permission you can take help from your local Ulema. Let them provide you with a letter stating reasons for leave. If you make the effort sincerely, Allah will make it possible for you to offer the Juma salaah.

Non-Muslim making Ghusl of a Dead Muslim

Q: If a Muslim died and was given ghusl by a non-Muslim relative or non-Muslim funeral parlour, is that ghusl valid?

A: Ghusl of a dead person is valid when clean water is poured over the whole body in such a way that the entire body is wetted. If this happens, the ghusl is valid, even if this was done by non-Muslims. However, if Muslims deliberately allow non-Muslims to bathe their dead, then they all will be sinful. (Raudhatut-Taalibeen)

Is a Shaikh Faradh for Reformation?

Q: Is it faradh to go to a Shaikh for self-reformation? Why can’t one do this on his or her own?

A: If it was possible for a human to achieve spiritual reformation and rectitude on his or her own then there would be no need for Allah to send His Messenger sallallahu alaihi wa sallam to this world. One of the main functions of Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam was to provide tazkiyah or spiritual reformation.

Almighty Allah states in the Holy Quran: “It is He who has sent among the unlettered people a Rasool from among them; he (the Rasool) recites to them the Verses of Allah, and he purifies them spiritually…” (Surah Jumu’ah, verse 2) The As-haab radhiallahu anhum acquired spiritual rectitude and rehabilitation directly from Allah’s Messenger sallallahu alaihi wa sallam, and they in turn reformed other members of the Ummat, and ever since this chain of reformations has continued unabatedly.

The Holy Quran commands: ‘O Believers: fear Allah and associate with the Truthful Ones’ (Surah Taubah) By always associating with pious people, one finds it easy to achieve reformation. Treading the Path of Sulook is like undertaking a journey towards an unknown place. Without a guide this is almost impossible.

Is Bay'ah Compulsory?

Q: Is it compulsory to take Bay’ah at the hands of a Shaikh?

A: Bay’ah is not compulsory, but sunnah.

Cure for Jealousy

Q: I have this bad quality of jealousy for some of my classmates who are more intelligent than me. I make Dua that Allah removes this quality. What else can I do, because it’s destroying me and preventing me gaining knowledge?

A: Firstly, congratulations on your concern for spiritual wellness. Indeed jealousy, according to hadith, destroys good deeds like fire devours (dry) twigs. But let’s make sure whether the feeling you experienced is indeed jealousy. If your heart burns with annoyance at the achievements of your classmates, and you wish they must not achieve what they have, or that something bad should happen to them, then this is definitely a sign of real jealousy. You need to treat this malady urgently. If you do not experience the above; you do not wish bad for your classmates, nor do you burn inside you over their feats; instead you wish to achieve the same as them, then this is not jealousy but envy and is not haraam in Shariah. As for the cure to jealousy, do the following: a) Make regular dua for the people you are jealous of; ask Allah to increase their skills and achievements; b) Sometimes give them gifts, if possible; c) Contemplate that whatever they have achieved, is only through the Grace of Allah, and He has the Right to confer His Grace upon whomsoever He wishes. These few activities are guaranteed to cure the evil trait of jealousy, insha Allah.

Addicted to Masturbation

Q. I am addicted to masturbation. I cannot help myself and I am only 13 years old.

A: You should seek counsel with a learned Aalim, pious person in your area, who can assist and advise you. This is a devastating sickness that takes long to cure. Ponder over the physical harms of this sinful act, as well as the spiritual harms. One who excessively commits this act, will lose his manhood (ability to have sex with a woman) at an early age and will thus not be physically fit for marriage in later life. Masturbation causes the eyes and memory to become weak; it disrupts the body’s digestive system thus always causing build up of winds.

Imam Ataa’ (rahmatullahi alayh) was asked regarding this. He replied: “A group of people will be resurrected on Qiyamat while their hands will be pregnant. They are those who had been doing this act and did not repent (before death). Their fault will be witnessed by everyone on Qiyamat Day.”

Hazrat Sa’eed bin Jubayr (rahmatullahi alayh) says that Allah will punish those people who fiddle with their private parts.

Refrain from reading literature and books that describe sexual acts or that contain pictures of naked and semi naked women. Avoid all forms of pornographic material, as well as websites that show these filth. Read Deeni books to build up within you the love and fear of Allah. Sit alone a few minutes every day thinking about the Power and Punishment of Allah. Spend a lot of time in the company of an elderly Aalim or pious person. Ponder regularly over these points and seek advice from a learned person you trust. Make thikr of these words as much as possible:

لاَ حَوْلَ وَ لاَ قُوَّةَ اِلاَّ بِالله

Trans: There is no power to do good, nor strength to abstain from evil, but with Allah.

May Allah Ta’ala assist you in your fight against this evil, aameen.

Are Terms 'Tasowwuf' and 'Mureed' Bid'ah?

Q: Are the terms ‘tasowwuf’ and ‘mureed’ etc. not Bid’ah, because they are not mentioned in the hadith of Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam? I have heard some Arabs say this.

A: These are technical terms devised by the masters in this subject. Every science of Islam has its own technical terms, which have absolutely no origin in Quran or Sunnah, but have been used by Ulema throughout the centuries without any objection whatsoever. In hadith we have terms such as Saheeh, Hasan, Dha’eef, Mu’dhal, Mursal, Musnad, Muttasil, Munqati’ etc. These terms are not found even in the times of the Sahaaba, but were instead created by the masters in the Science of Hadith. No one terms these words as a ‘bid’ah’. There are numerous similar examples in the other branches of Islamic learning, like Fiqah, Tafseer, Nahu, Sarf, Balaaghah, etc. These technical phrases have become accepted as part of Islam.

Cigarettes and Khabaa-ith

Q: In The Quran Shareef Allah Ta’ala declares khabaa-ith haraam, i.e. substances that are dirty, filthy. Don’t cigarettes fall under khabaa-th?

A: The definition of khabaa’ith varies according to different Ulema. It is, therefore, not so easy to apply the definition of khabaa-ith to cigarettes. In the first place, cigarettes are made from tobacco which is a plant. That in itself is not something filthy or dirty. Tea is also made from plants, and we drink this in abundance. No one has ever considered tea as a filthy or dirty substance. In fact cigarettes are not consumed as tea; instead the smoke of the burnt plant is inhaled. Per se, it cannot be placed under khabaaith. Yes, once it is smoked cigarettes leave behind a terrible odour, but that too, is not sufficient reason to call it khabaa-ith. Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) prohibited people who ate raw onions and garlic from coming to the Musjid without removing the smell. Yet, the two vegetables are halaal and pure and are even mentioned in the Holy Quran. Yes, smoking will definitely be makrooh because of the harm it causes to the body. But one may not classify it as haraam. And Allah Knows Best.

Income from Cigarettes

Q: Is the selling of cigarettes haraam?

A: No, selling of cigarettes is not haraam. Such an income is lawful.

Reading Qur'aan in Menstruation

Q: If a female is in the state of haidh or nifaas, can she read Quran without touching it?

A: It is haraam for a woman in haidh or nifaas to recite the Holy Quran from memory, even if she does not touch or hold the Quran. (Al-Majmoo’)

Zikr with Guidance of a Shaikh

Q: Is it necessary to make zhikr under the guidance of a Shaikh?

A: This is not necessary but preferable, for in most cases a qualified and experienced Shaikh will prescribe thikr that is beneficial for the Mureed’s spiritual progress.

Abdaals, Qutub and Ghowth

Q: Do we the Ahlus-Sunnah believe in Abdaals, Qutub, and Ghowth, or are these titles just fairy tales?

A: The titles Abdaal, Qutub, Ghowth, etc are genuine titles for different categories of Auliyaa (Saints) which appear in authentic hadith. When Sayyiduna Ali radhiallahu anhu was in Iraq then one day someone asked him to curse the people of Syria. Hazrat Ali radhiallahu anhu refused to do so, and remarked: “I heard Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wa sallam say: ‘The Abdaal are in Asia minor (Shaam or Syria are its environs). They are forty in number. Every time one of them dies, Allah sends another in his place. Through them people receive rain, and through them victory is granted over enemies. They are also the cause of punishment being warded off from the people of Shaam.” (Narrated by Imam Ahmad, and declared Saheeh by Allama Suyooti).
Many Scholars of Hadith have mentioned different versions of this hadith but with the same meaning. Some hadith mention words such as Autaad, Nujabaa, and Nuqabaa for different levels of Saints.

Money from Gambling

Q: If someone gives you money that you know is from gambling, can one accept it?

A: If you are certain that the money has been acquired through gambling, it is not permissible to accept such money. If one has already taken the money, it is necessary to give that amount in sadqa without any intention of thawaab.

Shafi Following Hanafi Imam in Eid Salaah

Q: If a Shaafi makes Eid Salah behind a Hanafi Imam, how shall he read his takbeers seeing that the Shaafi says seven takbeers in the first rakaat and five in the second?

A: The Hanafi Imam utters three takbeers in each rakaat, but the Shaafi muqtadee should say the extra takbeers on his own. This is mentioned in most of the books of Fiqah.

Using Sex Aids

Q: Is it permissible for married couple to use sex-aid like a vibrator?

A: It is not permissible in Islam for a female to insert anything into her private organ, and more so if this is done for sexual pleasure. Masturbation is haraam for both male and female. However one spouse may do this to the other and vice-verse but without the use of these aids.

Zikr with Drums

Q: Can zikr be made with the accompaniment of drums?

A: We have established from a previous answer that drums are not allowed in any forum except as permitted by the Hadith of Our Beloved Rasool sallallahu alaihi wa sallam. People who claim to be followers of tasawwuf and adopt this form of zikr have actually deviated from the Siraat-e-Mustaqeem. It is haraam to join such gatherings of zikr.

Iddat and Talaaq

Q: If a woman was given one talaaq and then sits in iddat, do the other two talaaq fall automatically? If the iddat finishes, have the other two talaaq fallen?

A: In the above cases the remaining two talaaq do not fall automatically. The husband has to issue these talaaq in order for them to take effect. Once the iddat is over after having given one talaaq, the couple may remarry if they both agree.

Sunnat Shower in I'tikaaf

Q: Is it permissible to have a sunnat bath or to shower during I’tikaaf?

A: Leaving the place of I’tikaaf for a shower or sunnat bath will nullify the I’tikaaf. If one needs to freshen up during i’tikaaf then when going to make wudhu one may quickly wash the body with a face cloth or rag, in about the same time that it takes to make wudhu.

Women Streaking Hair

Q: Is streaking the hair permissible for a woman?

A: Streaking the hair is a form of dyeing, and this is not permissible. However, using mehndi (henna) to dye the hair is allowed, but not the multi-coloured dyes that have become the fashion of the spiritually mad West.

Duff or Drum in Nasheeds/Nazams

Q: What is the Islamic ruling on the duff or drum that is played in nazams and qaseedas? We hear conflicting views among the Ulema.

A: I came across an interesting article by one Shaikh Abdur-Rahman Saheem of Reyadh, in which he proved the following points through valid and authentic references:

1. That the duff or drum is permissible on only two occasions: Nikah and the circumcision of a boy;
2. That use of the duff on the above two occasions are permissible for little girls only, and not men or young women.
3. That men are prohibited from using the duff under any circumstances;
4.
That use of the duff for songs and other entertainment is not permissible.
We fully endorse this fatwa of Shaikh Abdur Rahman Saheem. Anyone wishing to receive a copy of this Arabic article is welcome to write to us providing postal details.

Divorce and Community of Property

Q: My wife and I are divorced according to Shar’ee rites. However, at the start we had registered our marriage in community of property. Now, based on this law, my wife is demanding half a share of the house where she stayed before the divorce. Is this permissible in Islam, and am I obliged according to Shariah law to give her a half share of the house?

A: To register a marriage in community of property is un-Islamic and incorrect, since this leads to the abandonment and neglect of several Islamic injunctions, not the least being correct distribution of property. We always advise married couples who resorted to this un-Islamic practice to annul such registration or change it to the ante nuptial contract. Even though you were married in community of property, since this is not recognized and accepted by Shariah, it will be haraam (forbidden) for your wife to claim and/or accept any money in lieu of so-called joint ownership of property. This is a western law which militates against Islamic teaching, hence haraam. When a legal claim or western law conflicts with The Law of Shariah, the former must be rejected in its entirety. According to Shariah your wife has no valid claim to any share of the property.

Young Man Greeting a Young Woman

Q: Is it permissible for a young man to greet a young woman with salaam or any other way, and vice versa? If one party greets first, should the other reply, in view of the fact that replying to a salaam is wajib?

A: It is stated in Durr-e-Mukhtaar a famous Hanafi work on Fiqh, that a man shall not speak to a strange woman except if she is advanced in age. If this old woman sneezes or greets, the man may say yarhamu kallah or reply her salaam. This does not apply to young or middle-aged females. It is stated in Khaaniya: “When a woman greets a man, the latter should only reply in an audible voice if the woman is old. If it happens to be a young woman, he shall reply silently (to himself). Similarly, if a man greets a strange woman with salaam, the answer is the reverse.” (That is, an elderly woman would reply his greeting, not the young woman.)

Tying Hair in Salaah

Q: I heard that women should not tie their hair up when making salaah. Is this true?

A: There is no sin in women making salah while the hair is in a bun. Some believe that the hair must also make sajda, so if it is tied in a bun, it does not make sujood. But this is not established from any hadith.

Tying Hair in a Bun

Q: A Muslim magazine stated that women should not wear their hair in a bun as it resembles a camel’s hump. Is this true?

A: A normal bun does not resemble the camel's hump, and this is quite clear through observation. A bun does not sit high on the head. Yes, if the hair is done up in such a manner that it does resemble a camel's hump then this is haraam because the Messenger of Allah r cursed women who adopt this appearance.

Wife Changing Math-hab

Q: Is it permissible for a woman to change to the math-hab of her husband?

A: Changing the mazh-hab for the reason stated in the question is not permissible, since a couple may live harmoniously in spite of difference in mazh-hab. There are only a few areas which demand some caution between Shafi’ee and Hanafi, such as touching each other, for this breaks wudhu, and laws pertaining to iddat and talaaq. If and when the latter situation arises (Allah forbid), consult your local Ulema for guidance. If one is living in a place where only one mazh-hab is prevalent and there is no one to teach the other mazh-hab, then common sense demands that it is necessary to change to the prevalent mazh-hab in order to make amal on the Laws of Shariah. Otherwise, each one should adhere to his or her mazh-hab.
As for the children, the parents should decide before hand which mazh-hab they shall follow. In making this decision, consider convenience of madresa and Deeni tuition, as alluded to in the previous paragraph.

Valid Reasons for Contraception

Q: Please explain the circumstances under which contraception is allowed in Shariah.

A: Contraceptives are allowed for the following reasons:

1. When it is established through experience or expert medical advice that pregnancy will endanger the life of the mother or the foetus-to-be, or she will suffer serious complications to her health.
2. When the mother is unable to cope in the rearing of children for social or economic reasons, such as her having to go out and work for a living when the husband is invalid or not willing to earn an income.
3. When the couple live in such a remote area where they fear for the morals and Deeni upbringing of their kids.
4. Due to physical weakness or terminal illness the mother cannot rear children, and the family is not by the means to employ people for this purpose.
5. The couple intend separating in the near future, or the wife fears her husband may divorce her soon, or desert her.
6. To enable the couple to provide proper education and discipline to their offspring, contraception is used to space out pregnancies.

These are but a few reasons. Other contingencies may arise in different situations. The onus is on the couple involved to ascertain from the Ulema whether any given situation warrants permissibility of the use of contraceptives. However, resorting to contraception for fear of poverty, or to enable the wife to pursue a career, or merely because it is ‘fashionable’ to have small families, is not permissible. Further, the moment the above reasons no longer exist, use of contraception will once again become unlawful.

Female Working

Q: I am a female pharmacist and would like to continue this profession. Am I allowed by Shariah to go out and work?

A: A woman who is self sufficient or is being supported by her husband or family members, is not allowed to work at all. This is totally prohibited. A woman may only work if she has no husband, nor any relative who is prepared to maintain her, or if the husband is present but is unable or refuses to support her for whatever reason.
In your case, in order to keep in touch with the pharmacy profession, try working from home, without having to leave the confines of the home. Since your situations does not fall within the ambit of a Shar’ee need, it will not be permissible to go out and work.

Marital Dispute and Custody of Children

Q: My first wife left our marital home a few years ago, when I married my second wife. I have not divorced the first wife. We (my first wife and I) have 3 children, one son and two daughters. My son is 14 years and daughters are 12 and 10. Who has the right of custody of our children?

A: Since you clearly state that you have not divorced your first wife, your marriage is still intact. The question of custody only arises when a divorce takes place. In your case you claim you never issued a divorce, hence you have all the right over your children. As in a normal marriage you being the father have the right to custody. You may keep your children with you until your wife returns to the marital home, or, if you so wish, you may allow them to live with her. The choice is absolutely yours. Here the age of the children is not taken into account.

Child Born Two Months before Marriage

Q: Will a child who was born 2 months before nikah.marriage inherit from his dad?

A: He will not inherit from his dad. He will inherit from his mother only. (Raddul Muhtaar, 29:480)

Using a Rosary or Tasbeeh Counter

Q: Is the using of rosary beads or a tasbih counter allowed to keep count of Zikr/Tasbeeh?

A: The use of rosary beads or a counter is permissible. (Raddul Muhtaar, 5:53)Counting of the Tasbeehaat is proven from the Sahaaba radhiallahu anhum. Details of this can be found in the book of Imam Suyooti rahiumahullah, Al Musabbihah 1:1.

Female Going for Umrah without Mehram

Q: A female (approx 65 years old) wants to go on Umrah. Her son lives in another country. Can she go with a group?

A: Travelling for Umrah will only be permissible for her if she has a Mehram to acccompany her on this journey. She will not travel without a Mehram. If she has no Mehram besides her son, he will have to fetch her and take her for Umrah. She cannot travel in a group in which there is no Mehram for her. (Al Fataawa Hindiyyah, 5:462; Sharhul Bahjatul Wardiyah, 7:310)

Imam Standing in the Mihraab

Q: Should the Imam stand inside or outside the Mihraab when making Imaamat? Can he make Sajdah inside the Mihraab?

A: It is Makrooh Tanzeehi for the Imam to stand inside the Mihraab when making Imaamat, without a valid reason e.g. the Musjid being full. His feet should be outside the Mihraab. It is permissible for the Imam to make Sajdah inside the Mihraab. If the Masjid is filled to capacity and because of the need of space, the Imam stands in the Mihraab, it will not be Makrooh. (Raddul Muhtaar, 5:30; Haashiyatut Tahaawi, 1:244)

Hairstyle of the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam

Q: What is the hairstyle of the Prophet Mohammed sallallahu alaihi wa sallam?

A: There are various lengths of his hair mentioned in the Ahaadeeth:
a) Till half of his ear
b) Till his ear lobes
c) Till near his shoulders
d) He also shaved his head.
He would oil his hair often. When combing, he would make a path in the middle. He instructed that hair should be combed occassionally, not on a daily basis. (Shamaa'il Tirmidhi)

Following the Four Imams in Prayer

Q: Can we follow all four Imams in our prayer?

A: The four Madhabs, viz; Hanafi, Shaafi'ee, Maaliki and Hambali are Madhabs of Haq. Thus, one is allowed to follow any one of them in prayers.

Contributing Towards a Christian Funeral

Q: Can a Muslim contribute financially to a Christian funeral or attend the wake keeping?

A: If the donation is towards feeding the family and guests, or towards the needs of the family, etc. it will be permissible to contribute. It will not be permissible to donate towards anything which has a religious connotation or directly connected to the funeral, e.g. the coffin, hearse, etc. It will not be permissible to attend the wake-keeping (vigil).

Pig Gelatine

Q. I heard that in the Qur'aan it says not to eat pig meat, does it mean we are allowed to have gelatine?

A. The pig and all its parts and components are 'Najisul Ayn'. Thus, no part of the pig can be consumed. (Tabyeenul Haqaaiq, 1:26)

Who can See a Widow

Q: Who can see a widow during the period of Iddat?

A: Whether the lady is in Iddat or not, only those classified as Mahram i.e. those who can never marry her, e.g. brother, uncle, etc are allowed to see her.

Giving Zakaat to Brother

Q: Can I give Zakaat to my needy brother?

A: You may give Zakaat to your needy brother. (Al Fataawa al Hindiyyah, Vol 1 Pg 190)

Khatam for a New House

Q: When we move into a new house, do we have to do a Khatam?

A: Having a Khatam when moving into a new house is not established from any verse in the Qur'aan or the Hadith of the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam.

Man Waxing Chest and Back

Q: Can a man wax his chest and back?

A: Although it is permissible to remove the hair from the chest and back, it is not advisable. (Raddul Muhtaar, Vol 27 Pg 34; Al Fataawa al Hindiyyah, Vol 5 Pg 358)

How to Write a Talaq (Divorce)

Q: How do I write a Talaq (Divorce)?

A: Your query refers. Due to high volume of questiions, there could have been a delay in our response. We do apologise.

A talaaq is written as follows:

Islamic Date
English Date
Husbands Name
Address

I (Full name) the undersigned, of sound mind and body, hereby declare that I have given my wife (full name of wife) one talaaq / or one talaaq-e-baain (depending on which type of talaaq the husband intends giving) as from the above date.


Signed:


....................................

There is no need for witnesses. This is just the basic form of talaaq. We advise husbands who intnend to divorce that they consult with their local Ulema for more details.

Female's Wudhu Breaking Through Touching

Q: Do non-Muslim male relatives break a Shaafi female’s wudhu?

A: If a male mehram, Muslim or non Muslim, touches a Muslim female, her wudhu will not break

Reward of Acts of Worship Reaching the Dead

Q: Does the Thawaab of physical Ibaadat reach the deceased?

A: Three types of reward (thawaab) reach the deceased from the actions of the living; (a) a Fardh Haj made on behalf of the deceased, (b) wealth given as Sadaqah or a debt paid on behalf of the deceased, (c) the benefit of Du’aa made by the living. There are two views as to whether the thawaab of Quran recitation reaches the deceased. The preferred view is that it does. One should ask Allah Ta’āla to convey the thawaab of the recital to the deceased. The thawaab of physical Ibaadat, e.g. Salaah, fasting, Nafl Haj, etc. does not reach the deceased. (Majmu, 15:521)

Position of Hands in Salaah

Q: Where will the Shaafi’ee keep the hands in the Qiyaam position in Salaah?

A: He will fold his hands below the chest, above the navel, in the iyaam position in Salaah. (Majmu, 3:313)

Zakaat on Dead Stock

Q: Zakaat was calculated on 'dead' stock that was valued at about R50,000.00 and when auctioned later, was sold for a mere R2000. The zakaat is still being discharged monthly and has not yet been fully paid. Does the amount still remain the same as originally calculated or would it have to be altered?

A: At the time of calculation, you had to value the stock according to its current market-related value. In other words, the true value would be the price those goods would have fetched had it been sold in bulk to a prospective buyer at the time of calculating your zakaat. If you are able to ascertain that value at this stage then adjust your zakaat accordingly.

Menstruation and no Fixed Cycle

Q : After childbirth I have not had an aadat (fixed cycle) for haidh. My last haidh I bled for 10 days and till now have not stopped bleeding. Today is the 15th day of bleeding. From when do I calculate my haidh? From which salah should I stop reading?

A: In this case your aadat or cycle will be ten days and the balance will be istihaadah. In future your monthly cycle will be 10 days full, until a month comes where you bleed for less than 10 days. It will be then be considered as if your aadat or cycle has changed. Resume salaah from the moment 10 days are complete. If bleeding continues indefinitely, then you must work on a cycle of 20/10. This means that 20 days will be considered as clean, and the next 10 will be haidh. During hose 20 days you should offer each salah with a fresh wudhu even if the bleeding continues. When those 20 ‘clean’ days are over, consider your haidh as having begun. The moment there is a change in your pattern, contact us again for the new ruling.

Selling a Waqf Property

Q: A house was given as waqf to a jamaat. A mutawalli sold it below value and invested the money in his own investment? Was it correct to sell waqf property? The other jamaat members were not happy with what he did though he says he will pay the jamaat back. So far he has only paid a little of the money. Should that mutawalli be asked to resign?

A: The Ulema are unanimous that selling waqf property is not permissible. The sale itself is not valid. Steps should be taken to cancel that sale and redeem the Waqf property. As for the trustee, well he has committed a serious breach of trust, on the basis of which he has disqualified himself from being a trustee. It is written in the Hanafi book of Jurisprudence, Raddul-Muhtaar that when a trustee breaches his trust, he is automatically disqualified from acting any longer in that position. He should, therefore, resign. If the sale is cancelled then this trustee has to reimburse the buyer for the price of that house. If due to legal technicalities, this could not be done, then the trustee has to pay the market value of the property back into the trust.

Cutting Nails at Night

Q: Is it permissible to cut one’s nails at night?

A: Yes, this is permissible. It is written in the book Al-Fataawal-Hindiyya that once the King Haroon Rashid asked Imam Abu Yusuf about clipping the nails at night. The great Imam answered: “It is advisable to do so.” The King then asked: “And what’s your proof for this?” The Imam replied instantaneously: “The Hadith of Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam): “A good act is never delayed.”

Marriage Without Sexual Relations

Q: Is nikah valid without sexual intercourse?

A: Even if a couple had no intimate relations after getting married, their nikah is valid and complete. Consummation of the marriage is not a condition for its validity.

Time for Sexual Relations

Q: How long after nikah should the couple have sexual relations?

A: Sexual intercourse can be done any time after nikah, depending on circumstances and the mutual agreement of the couple. But the hadith encourages a wife to respond to her husband if he desires her.

Sexual Intercourse in Room with Sleeping Infant

Q: Is sexual intercourse permissible in the room where an infant is asleep?

A: It is permissible for a couple to have sexual relations in a room where infants are sleeping. But care should be taken that they don't wake up while the husband and wife are engaged in this act. However, even though this is not a sin, but it is not advisable. It is better for the couple to be in another room when having intimate relations, if this is possible.

Removal of Pubic Hair

Q: I am 14 years old. Is it necessary for me to shave my pubic region (front private part) hairs?

A: Once hair grews in the pubic area (around the front and back private parts) then it becomes necessary to shave. It is not permissible to leave the hair for 40 days without shaving. So yes. regardless of your age, when hair appears, it must be shaven. Also note that you need to shave hair around the anus as well (that is, the back private part).
Ref: Raddul-Muhtaar, Alhazr wal Ibaahah

Removal of Body Hair

Q: What does Islam say about the removal of unwanted body hair?

A: When hair appears under the armpits and from below the navel to around the anus, such hair has to be removed. The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (salllallahu alayhi wasallam) said that removal of this hair is among the important teachings of Islamic culture (Bukhari and Muslim). The Muslim Jurists have ruled that one should shave this hair at least once every 40 days. To leave it for longer than 40 days is not permissible.
In the case of a female, she should remove facial hair as well, for it is only men whom are commanded to keep a beard and moustache.
A female is allowed to use ointment or cream to remove any unwanted hair.

Mahram and Umrah

Q: My husband doesn't pray. I want to take him on umrah but he said no. I have no other mahram. What can I do?

A: It is indeed a great act on your part to offer to take your husband for Umrah. Whether he prays his salaah or not, it is his duty to accompany you as a mehram. However, if he refuses to go with you, you cannot force him. The alternative would be to either look for another mehram, such as your brother, father, uncle, nephew, or son (if you have a baaligh son), or else postpone your umrah for another date.
A woman is not allowed to travel without her husband or a mehram. This ruling is mentioned in many hadith of our Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam).

Calculating Mehr (Dowry)

Q: How does mehr work? Does the boy have to give the Mehr e Faatimi?

A: It is not necessary to stipulate the mehr-e-fatimi. This is a sunnat form of mehr for those who can afford it, especially since nowadays the mehr-e-fatimi is quite high. The bridegroom may stipulate any amount of mehr as long as it is more than the minimum mehr.

Delaying Witr Salaah until Tahajjud Time

Q: Is it jaaiz (permissible) to delay witr salaah until tahajjud time?

A: If one is sure of waking up for tahajjud then it is actually better to delay the witr salaah and perform it after completing tahajjud but before subuh sadiq. If one does not have this assurance then better to perform it before sleeping.

Iemaan and Throwing Down the Qur'aan

Q: Will a person’s iemaan leave him if he throws the Quraan down due to anger?

A: If this was done deliberately out of disrespect for the Holy Quran then such a person loses his iemaan. However, if it was done out of anger and not in violation of the sacredness of the Holy Quran, then though the person remains a Muslim, but the act is very serious and a major sin for which abundant istighfaar must be made.

Masturbation and Adultery

Q: Is masturbation equal in sin to zinaa (adultery)?

A: Masturbation is definitely a form of zinaa, and is haraam, but is lesser in gravity than the actual zina between male and female. Allah Ta’ala states in the Holy Quran: “And whoever seeks any other (avenue of lust) besides these (the wife and female slaves), they are the transgressors.” Surah Muminoon (23) verse 7. This verse makes haraam any form of sexual activity besides sex in marriage and sex with females slaves. The latter obviously does not exist today.

Widow Wearing Imitation Jewellery

Q: Can a widow wear imitation jewelry?

A: If the widow is in iddat, she may not wear any jewelry or adornment. If she is not in iddah then the law that applies to all women (widows, divorcees, single, married) is that they may wear any type of imitation jewelry except rings. Finger-rings must be of either gold or silver.

How does one know if Allah is Pleased?

Q: How would an individual know if Almighty Allah is pleased with him/her?

A: Allah has described true guidance as that which was brought by The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) in turn promised salvation for those who follow his Path and the Path of his Sahaaba. Hence, if one is acting on the teachings of Allah’s Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and following the sunnat of His sahaaba, then such a person has pleased Allah, and Allah is pleased with him. Add to this continuous repentance and istighfaar for mistakes and sins that we always fall prey to, and you have the formula of pleasing Almighty Allah.

Forgetting Sajda Sahu

Q: If one had to make sajda sahu for a particular salaah, but forgot to do so. What is the position of that salaah? Must qadha be made for it?

A: If one forgot to make sajda sahu and realised this immediately after the salaah, then it is waajib to repeat that salaah if the time of the salaah is still valid. However, once the time expires, there is no qadha to be made, because the faradh has been discharged.

Missing a Rakaah and Salaam with Imam

Q: I joined the jamaat after missing one rakaat. When the Imam made salaam at the end of the salaah, by mistake I also made salaam. Realising my mistake, I immediately stood up. I had turned my head completely when making the salaam. I then proceeded to fill in the missed rakaat. Was my salaah valid?

A: Your salaah was valid but you had to make sajda sahu for that error.

Reading Tasbeeh on Fingers

Q: What is the correct option when reading tasbeeh on the fingers; should one use only the right hand or can you use both hands?

A: One is allowed to use both hands, although some books mention preference for using the right hand only. In practice let us do both at different times.

Working at a Bank

Q: A boy intends to marry me but he works at bank. How do I advice him about leaving that job?

A: Working in a bank is not totally Haraam. Some types of work in the banking industry are lawful. If his work entails involvement in riba (interest) then such work is Haraam. Our advice for him is to look out for another job as a matter of urgency, but in the meantime continue working at the bank. However, if he is working in an Islamic bank, then his job is totally lawful and permissible. In this case he doesn’t have to leave the job. If you need any advice on the Islamic banks, please contact us again.

Beef Bone Gelatine

Q: Is the ruling of beef skin gelatine also applicable to gelatine from beef bones?

A: Animals that are not slaughtered according to Islamic requirements are Haraam. This includes the meat, bones, skin, etc of such animals. Therefore, gelatine made from beef bones will have the same ruling as gelatine made from the skin. If slaughtered Islamically it will be Halaal, if not then it will be Haraam. If Halaal animals are mixed with Haraam animals then all will be considered as Haraam.

Disposal of Placenta other Childbirth Issues

Q: After child birth what has to be done with the placenta etc? How do we calculate the seventh day? What has to be done on the seventh day?

A: 1) The placenta must be burnt or buried. 2) The seventh day is calculated from the day of birth. The day baby is born is counted as day one. So if a baby is born on Monday during the day, the seventh day will be Sunday till before Maghrib. 3) On the seventh day the baby’s hair should be shaved, aqeeqa should be made, and parents should begin calling the child by the name chosen for it. Weigh the hair and give the value of the hair in Sadqah.

Wakeel for a Revert Lady

Q: Who should be a wakeel for a revert Muslim woman who is marrying a Muslim man? All her relatives are non-Muslims. Can any Muslim be her representative for nikah at the musjid?

A: A non-Muslim cannot act as a wakeel in nikah for a Muslim woman. In this case, any responsible Muslim male should act as her representative for nikah in the Musjid.

Learning Karate

Q: Is it permissible to learn karate?

A: It is permissible to learn this form or martial arts as a means of self defence. However, when learning these martial arts and self-defence techniques, observe restrictions of Shariah, such as dressing without exposing the satr, not training during salah times thereby missing the salaah, avoiding forms of protocol and deference observed by proponents of this art such as bowing, kneeling, etc.

Parents' Consent for a Marriage

Q: I would like to know what are the primary requirements of nikah? Is the parents’ consent compulsory?

A: In the Shaafi’ math-hab a girl cannot marry without the consent of her father, or the consent of her wali in the absence of her father. Such a marriage is null and void. In the Hanafi math-hab a nikah without the permission of the father is valid on three conditions: 1) The boy must be capable of supporting the girl he intends marrying. This means that he be capable of providing the mehr (dowry) which she is entitled to, and monthly maintenance. 2) The boy must possess Islamic morals or character that is similar to or better than that of the girl. 3) If the girl is a Muslim by birth, the boy too, must be a Muslim by birth. If these conditions are not met then even in the Hanafi math-hab such a nikah is not valid without the consent of the wali. Furthermore, even if these conditions are met, for moral, spiritual, and social success, the parents’ consent and approval are absolutely necessary. By marrying outside the fold of this approval our youth are destroying their morals and weakening their Islamic foundations.

Working for a Liqour Store

Q: Can a person work for a bottle (liqour) store making safes?

A: No, this is haraam. The Holy Quran prohibits us to aid and abet sin.

Why is Music Haraam?

Q: Why is music haraam? Why is percussion acceptable? What about other instruments? What make them unacceptable?

A: Music is haraam for the following reasons: Allah Ta’ala says in The Holy Quran:
"And among mankind there are those who purchase idle talk (i.e. music and singing) to mislead (men) from the Path of Allah without knowledge, and make it (the path of Allah or the verses of the Quran) a mockery; for such people there will be a humiliating punishment (in the fire of hell).” (Surah Luqman, verse 6) Imaam Ibni Katheer (rahmatullahi alayhi) states in the Tafseer (commentary) of this verse: “Hazrat Abdullah Bin Masood (radhiyallahu anhu) said on oath that lahwal-hadeeth or ‘idle talk’ means music. He repeated this thrice. Hazrat Ibni Abbaas, Jaabir, Ikramah, Saeed Bin Jubair, Mujaahid, Makhool, Amr Bin Shuaib and Ali Bin Bazheema (radhiyallahu anhum) have all given the same commentary on this verse as Hazrat Abdullah Bin Masood (radhiyallahu anhu). Hazrat Hasan Basri (rahmatullahi alayhi) states that this (verse) was revealed for the condemnation of musical instruments. Qurtubi, Bagawi, Khaazin, Mudaarak, Mazhari and many other works on tafseer have mentioned the same. Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "Allah sent me as a Mercy and Guidance to the world. And My Lord has commanded me to eradicate musical instruments and singing….” (Ahmed and Tabarani) From this we learn that instruments that are designed to created musical sounds and melodies are not permissible in the Shariah of Islam, regardless of what those instruments are and how they work. Percussion is the striking together of two objects to produce sound or noise. In this regard, if the sound resembles a musical melody and the purpose of the exercise is to produce musical sounds then that too, is unacceptable and abominable (makrooh), though the sin will not be as severe as using actual musical instruments

Transferring Deceased to Another Country

Q: If the body of a deceased is being transferred to another country, should the ghusl and janaaza be done in the country of death or in the country of destination?

A: Firstly, a person should be buried in the country where he has died. It is not permissible to transport the body long distances because this causes a delay in the burial, and the hadith forbids delaying the janaaza. However, if such transportation of a deceased becomes necessary then the ghusl and kafan should be done before transporting the body. Thereafter the Janaaza Salah should be read in the country of destination, before proceeding to the cemetery.

Women Doing Business During Juma

Q: Can Muslim women do business during Juma salah?

A: Muslim women should not be doing business at any time, let alone the time of Jumu’ah. According to the hadith it is among the signs of Qiyaamah that women will aid their husbands in business and trade. Muslim businessman should rather close their businesses at the time of Jumu’ah instead of leaving their womenfolk to run the business. In view of today’s escalating crime wave, it is also in the interests of our physical and emotional well-being not to leave our womenfolk alone in businesses.

Labour and Missed Salaah

Q: A woman was in labour and missed 5 salaah. She was bleeding all the time since before birth. Is this nifaas or must she make qadha of the salaah?

A: This is not nifaas but istihaadha. Hence the lady has to make qadha of the salaah that she missed.

Females and Wet Dreams

Q: Is ghusl (a bath) necessary on a female if she experiences a wet dream?

A: Yes, it is compulsory on her to take a bath.

Solar Heated Pool

Q: We are buying a house with a solar heated pool. Please inform me if it is haraam to swim in a solar heated pool.

A: It is not haraam to use solar-heated water, but avoiding this is better. The mention of this in the hadith was purely for medical reasons. The prohibition in the hadith does not mean haraam; it is instead a discouragement. Some Ulema applied this hadith to countries around the equator where there is excessive heat, Arabia being one of them. Today the scientists have discovered the harm of too much exposure to ultra violet rays of the sun. This harm was referred to by Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) when he discouraged the Ummat from using water heated by the rays of the sun.

Removing Spider Veins

Q: Can you please tell me if having spider veins removed from your legs is haraam? The veins are not threatening to one’s life.

A: Removing spider veins is totally permissible.

Two Wives and Inheritance

Q: If a man who has two wives dies, do they inherit one eighth each, or must you divide one eighth between the two wives?

A: The one eighth must be shared between two or more wives.

Applying Perfume Before Ihram

Q: Is it permissible to apply itr (perfume) before putting on ihram for haj and umrah?

A: Yes, this is permissible. In fact, it is part of the etiquette and aadaab of Ihram to do so.

Wife Wearing Tight Clothes in the House

Q: Is it permissible for a wife to wear tight fitting tops and pants in the house on the husband's command?

A: This is permissible on two conditions: 1) She must not dress like this in front of her children no matter what age they may be; 2) She must not appear like this in front of other males who may enter the home or who live there, whether they are mehram or non-mehram.

Marriage Without an Aalim/Sheikh

Q: If nikah is made between a couple without the presence of a Moulana, what would the procedure be?

A: Due to discrepancies that have arisen in the past, we do not allow marriages without the presence of a Moulana or Imam. Any couple wishing to get married must seek the assistance of a Moulana or Imam.

Killing a Lame Horse

Q: One owns a horse which is lame and weak. Vet suggests we put the horse down. Is it allowed?

A: If the horse is not going through any visible pain or torture then you are not allowed to kill it. Care for it to the best of your ability and let it die its natural death.

Viewing DVDs

Q: Is it permissible to view a CD or DVD on the Chechen struggle?

A: CD’s or DVD’s of this nature display pictures and images of human beings, which are not permissible to view. We are of the view that pictures appearing on computer or TV screens fall under the Shar’ee definition of photography. When Rasollullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) conquered Makka, he ordered the Sahaaba to wash off pictures that were painted on the walls inside the Holy Ka’ba. This is proof that pictures on flat surfaces are also not allowed, contrary to the belief that only three-dimensional images have been prohibited in the hadith. While we fully understand that Muslims would love to view the losses inflicted on the enemy by the Mujaahideen, let us in the interests of our Islamic principles, confine ourselves to the printed stories.

Not Attending Juma

Q: If a person does not attend Juma salah, is his income halaal?

A: Presumably you are referring to one who trades during the time of Jumu’ah and thus misses his Jumu’ah. If this is so then know that one who misses Jumu’ah has committed a major sin. According to some Ulema a male who misses three Juma’s in a row for no valid reason, loses his iemaan. Though his income will be halaal, there is no blessing and good luck in such an income. It is devoid of barakaat, and such a business is doomed to failure.

Extended Guarantee on Items

Q: Is it permissible when purchasing an item to purchase an extended guarantee? Normally the guarantee is for one year, but pay an extra R250 (for example) and it will be extended to 3 years.

A: If this amount is included in the overall price, which amount is paid at the time of collecting the item, then such a deal is permissible. In other words, at the time of taking possession of the article, one pays a single price inclusive of all costs related to the article. If this extra amount is paid separately or after taking the possession of the article then it is not lawful.

Bungy-Jumping

Q: Is it permissible to go bungy-jumping?

A: This is not permissible. Any act which endangers one's life and does not bring any worldly or religious benefit, is not allowed. If due to a mishap, should one die while bungy-jumping, it will be tantamount to suicide, hence from the very outset this act should be forbidden.

Istikhaara Salah and Dreams

Q: When a person performs isthikharah namaaz, how should one interpret the dream? Is there any colour or object that indicates acceptance? Must the dream be interpreted by a Maulana? If the person sees a dream the same night, does he continue reading the salaah on other nights?

A: In most cases, interpretation of the dream comes naturally to the person involved. After having made istikhara, one may wake up the next morning with a feeling of conviction, a positive feeling that you should go ahead with the proposed venture or idea. The feeling is obvious. At times one does not see any dream, but still gets up in the morning with this strong inclination. Sometimes one will need to have the dream interpreted by an Alim. One will see a very vivid dream and know exactly that in it lies the answer, but is unable to interpret the dream. For this you need to refer to an Alim who has the ability to interpret dreams.
There is no particular colour or object to look for. However, if one has a dream in which a specific colour is seen, the interpreter may explain the significance or connotation. As for the last part of your question, once you have received your answer, either in a dream or from an interpreter, you discontinue the istikhaara salaah, even if it's after just one night.

Fiance's Terrible History

Q: A friend of mine is getting married and her fiancé has a terrible history, and there is suspicion that he continues to take part in these haraam activities. Is it my duty to notify her, anonymously of course?

A: It is definitely your Islamic duty to inform her of whatever information you have about the person she intends marrying, especially since she is courting that person as well. This is not gheebat or scandalising, provided your information is correct.

Issuing Medical Certificates Under False Pretences

Q: I am a medical practitioner and we usually issue medical certificates to sick patients. Sometimes patients are not really ill, but seek a certificate out of fear for losing their jobs should they fail to produce one as reason for their absence. Is it permissible for us doctors to issue a certificate under false pretences?

A: To certify a patient as ill when he is not really so, is tantamount to giving false evidence. No matter what valid reason an employee has for staying out of work, the doctor cannot falsely certify him or her as sick. The doctor will have to explain the Islamic and moral position to the patient and kindly refuse. If money is taken in lieu of such untrue certificates then the sin is even bigger.

Wudhu with a Nose-Ring

Q: Can one make wudhu with a nose-ring?

A: One may make wudhu while wearing the nose-ring, but it must be rotated so that water gets into the hole. If the ring is so tight that water will not reach beneath it then the rings must compulsorily be removed, otherwise your wudhu will not be valid.

Wudhu with Earrings

Q: Can one make wudhu with earrings on? If I do will my wudhu be accepted?

A: Wudhu could be made while wearing ear-rings because it is not compulsory to wash the ears in wudhu. However, when making a faradh ghusl, if the ear-rings are loose then you may wear them but make sure the water goes into the holes. Otherwise, it is necessary to remove the ear-rings for ghusl.

Woman Cutting Hair

Q: Is it permissible for a Muslim woman to cut her hair?

A: CUTTING OR TRIMMING THE HAIR OF A WOMAN

The first rule in this regard is the shaving of the female hair, which is totally prohibited. The word used in the hadith is halq, which means to shave. Proof for this is the hadith narrated by Tirmizhi, Nasaa-ee and Bazzar: "Rasoolullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) prohibited a woman from shaving her hair." (Adhwaa-ul Bayaan) Ulema are unanimous that shaving for a woman is haraam and a major sin. (Fat-hul Baari)
The second rule pertains to the cutting or trimming of the hair for a female, which is the object of your question. The Shariah has allowed a woman to cut or trim her hair on only one occasion, and that is when she has to release herself from Ihraam. The Jurists of Islam are unanimous that on this occasion she will clip the end portion of her hair locks. Some have stipulated that she should clip the amount of a finger tip from each lock. (Raddul-Muhtaar; Adhwaa-ul Bayaan)
Besides the occasion of Hajj a Muslim female is not allowed to cut her hair for any reason barring serious illness or disease, in which case even shaving will be permissible. Under normal circumstances she is not permitted to trim the hair. We furnish several proofs for this ruling.

1. The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) cursed men who imitate women and he cursed women who imitate men. (Bukhari, The Book in Dressing). On the strength of this hadith Commentators of Hadith state that it is haraam for a member of one sex to imitate the dress, style, fashion, and behaviour of the opposite sex. (Umdatul Qaari of Allama Aini) Women who cut their hair short will obviously resemble men, especially those men who sport long hair. It is sunnah for a man to keep hair till the shoulders. Women who cut their hair shorter than this will be guilty of imitating the hair-style of men, an act that Islam has forbidden.

2. It appears in another hadith that The Messenger of Allah forbid a free woman from a jummah hair-style, and he forbid a slave woman from keeping plaited hair. (Majma'uz Zawaaa-id) Jummah means hair that falls onto the shoulders.(Faizul-Qadeer; Adhwaa-ul Bayaan) If a woman is prohibited from keeping hair till her shoulders, it necessarily follows that her hair has to be longer than that. The reverse is blatanly false, for then it will mean the woman has to keep her hair above the shoulders, and none of the Ulema of Islam ever took such a view as regards the length of the woman's hair. It is unreasonable and illogical to infer from this hadith that since a female is prohibited from keeping haIr till the shoulders, her hair has to be above the shoulders or shorter than this, for then it conflicts with proof number one, wherein it was emphasized that she is not allowed to resemble the male hair-style. We explained earlier that the jummah hair style is sunnah for men, not for women. The purport of the above hadith is that the female hair should be longer than her shoulders, from which we can safely conclude that she may not shorten her hair.


3. Shariah has also prohibited Muslims from imitating the fashions and styles of non-Muslims. We cite a few examples from Quran and Hadith for this prohibition.
Almighty Allah states in Surah Hashr, verse 19: "And do not be like those who have forgotten Allah, and they are the transgressors." In Surah Jaathiya, verse 18: "Then We established you on a Shariah regarding matters (of Deen), so follow it, and do not follow the desires of those who have no knowledge." In Surah Hud, verse 113: "And do not incline towards those who have done injustice, lest the Hell-fire touches you...."
It comes in the hadith compilation of Imam Abu Dawood that The Messenger of Allah said: "He who imitates a nation is one of them"
He also said: "He is not among us who practices on the trends/styles/fashions of those foreign to Islam." Another hadith states: "Do not adopt the imitation of the Jews and the Christians." (Ahmed and Tirmizhi)
These citations are a few among many which conclusively prohibit Muslims from emulating the fashions and styles that are peculiar and specific to the West (Yahood and Nasaara). It is an established fact that the short hairstyle adopted by woman nowadays is a trend that was initiated and promoted by the Western kuffar. Muslim women of former times never knew what it was to trim and shorten the hair. This is a fitnah of modern eras.
It must be born in mind that we are are not speaking of mere trimming and cutting of the female hair; the matter is deeper than that. The idea of shortening female hair is actually a whole new and foreign concept espoused by the West and promoted by their agents, and it involves a great number of different styles and trends related to female hair. There is, therefore, no doubt that when a Muslim women cuts her hair, her motive is none other than imitating a particular hairstyle that was developed by non-believers. In the light of the aforementioned quotations, such an act is haraam.

It comes in the hadith that the angels make the following tasbeeh: "Glory be to That Being who has adorned men with beards and beautified women with locks of hair." One hadith states that the angels make istighfaar for women who have long, flowing locks. (Narrated by Haakim, from Ayesha (radhiyallahu anha)