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The Sacred Month of Zul-Hijjah: A Time of Sacrifice, Devotion, and Charity

The Virtue of Zul-Hijjah

Zul-Hijjah (ذو الحجة) is the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar and one of the four sacred months in Islam. The first ten days of this month are among the most blessed days in the entire year.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

قال رسول الله ﷺ: «ما من أيام العمل الصالح فيها أحب إلى الله من هذه الأيام».
“There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 969)

These days are a time for increased worship, remembrance of Allah, fasting, and acts of charity.

Allah says in the Qur’aan:

وَالْفَجْرِ • وَلَيَالٍ عَشْرٍ
“By the dawn, and by the ten nights.” (Surah Al-Fajr, 89:1–2)

Many scholars interpret these “ten nights” to refer to the first ten days of Zul-Hijjah.

The Legacy of Sacrifice: Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Ismail (AS)

One of the most profound stories associated with Zul-Hijjah is the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Prophet Ismail (AS). It is a story of unwavering faith, obedience, and submission to the will of Allah.

Allah tested Prophet Ibrahim (AS) with a dream in which he was commanded to sacrifice his beloved son. When he shared this vision with Ismail (AS), the young boy responded with remarkable faith:

يَا أَبَتِ افْعَلْ مَا تُؤْمَرُ ۖ سَتَجِدُنِي إِن شَاءَ اللَّهُ مِنَ الصَّابِرِينَ
“O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, among the patient.” (Surah As-Saffat, 37:102)

As Ibrahim (AS) prepared to carry out the command, Allah replaced Ismail (AS) with a ram, signifying that the true sacrifice was their submission to Allah’s will.

وَفَدَيْنَاهُ بِذِبْحٍ عَظِيمٍ
“And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” (Surah As-Saffat, 37:107)

The Act of Qurbani (Sacrifice)

To commemorate this act of devotion, Muslims around the world perform Qurbani (sacrifice) during the days of Eid al-Adha, which begins on the 10th of Zul-Hijjah.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

قال رسول الله ﷺ: «إنها سنة أبيكم إبراهيم، لكل شعرة من شعور الأضحية أجر».
“It is the Sunnah of your father Ibrahim. For every hair of the Qurbani, you receive a reward from Allah.” (Ibn Majah, 3127)

The meat from the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts:
1. One-third for the family.
2. One-third for relatives and friends.
3. One-third for the poor and needy.

Charity and Feeding the Poor

Zul-Hijjah is not only a time for personal devotion but also a time to uplift others through charity. Feeding the poor and supporting those in need is a core part of the Qurbani tradition.

Allah says:

لَن تَنَالُوا الْبِرَّ حَتَّىٰ تُنفِقُوا مِمَّا تُحِبُّونَ
“You will never attain righteousness until you spend from that which you love.” (Surah Aal-Imran, 3:92)

By sharing the meat and giving charity, we embody the spirit of compassion, generosity, and community that Islam teaches.

Conclusion

Zul-Hijjah is a sacred opportunity to renew our faith, follow the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), and serve humanity. Let us use these blessed days to:
– increase our worship and remembrance of Allah
– perform Qurbani with sincerity
– feed the poor and support charitable causes
– reflect on the values of sacrifice, obedience, and compassion

May Allah SWT accept our deeds and grant us the ability to follow in the footsteps of His righteous servants. Ameen

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Islam and Isa AS (Jesus): A Bridge of Respect, Charity, and Unity

In Islam, Isa AS (Jesus) is honoured as one of the greatest prophets of Allah, a servant and messenger sent to guide humanity. His life and mission exemplify the universal message of Islam: worship Allah alone and live with compassion and service to others.
As Muslims, we follow the commandments of Allah and the Sunnah of His final prophet, Muhammad (PBUH). While Isa AS is deeply respected, Islam teaches that he was a human prophet, not divine. This belief unites Muslims under the core principle of Tawheed—the oneness of Allah.

Isa AS in the Qur’an
The Qur’an honours Isa AS as a noble prophet, born miraculously to Maryam (Mary) by the will of Allah. His birth, life, and miracles were signs of Allah’s power and mercy, not evidence of divinity.
Allah says:
إِنَّمَا ٱلۡمَسِيحُ عِيسَى ٱبۡنُ مَرۡيَمَ رَسُولُ ٱللَّهِ وَكَلِمَتُهُ ۥۤ أَلۡقَٮٰهَآ إِلَىٰ مَرۡيَمَ وَرُوحٌ۬ مِّنۡهُ
“The Messiah, Isa, son of Maryam, was only a messenger of Allah and His word which He directed to Maryam and a soul [created at a command] from Him.”
— Surah An-Nisa (4:171)
By Allah’s permission, Isa AS performed miracles to affirm his prophethood, such as healing the sick and reviving the dead. However, these acts were clear signs of Allah’s greatness, not Isa AS’s own power.

Worship Allah Alone
As with all prophets, Isa AS conveyed the message of Tawheed—the worship of Allah alone. The Qur’an records Isa AS as saying:
إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ رَبِّى وَرَبُّكُمۡ فَٱعۡبُدُوهُ ۗ هَـٰذَا صِرَٲطٌ۬ مُّسۡتَقِيمٌ
“Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. This is the straight path.”
— Surah Maryam (19:36)
As Muslims, we follow the teachings of Allah and the final guidance of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), striving to establish prayer, give charity, and serve humanity in obedience to Allah.

The Importance of Charity and Service
In the spirit of following Allah’s commandments, Islam emphasises charity as a way to purify our wealth and help the less fortunate. Acts of kindness and giving in the way of Allah strengthen our bond with Him.
Allah commands:
وَأَقِيمُواْ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَءَاتُواْ ٱلزَّكَوٰةَ وَٱرۡكَعُواْ مَعَ ٱلرَّٲكِعِينَ
“And establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience].”
— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:43)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said:
“The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be their charity.”
— Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 604
Following this example, we encourage all Muslims to support the masjid, donate to the needy, and participate in community initiatives.

A Call to Action: Worship and Community at the Masjid
The masjid is a place where we connect with Allah and fulfil our duties to the community. By attending prayers, supporting the masjid, and engaging in charitable activities, we follow the path laid out by Allah and His final messenger, Muhammad (PBUH).
At Masjid Abu Bakr, we welcome you to join us in:
• Strengthening your relationship with Allah through regular worship.
• Supporting community welfare by contributing to charity.
• Educating the next generation about Islam through classes and activities.
Let us honour the teachings of all prophets, especially Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), by living a life of devotion, service, and charity.
May Allah accept our efforts and guide us all to the straight path.

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The Power of the Five Daily Prayers

Transforming Your Life in This World and the Hereafter

As a Muslim, you may sometimes feel overwhelmed by the pressures of daily life, making it challenging to maintain the five daily prayers (Salah) in your routine. However, these prayers are not just religious obligations—they are powerful tools that can transform your life. In this article, we will explore how Salah benefits you in your worldly life first, before delving into its spiritual significance, its obligation in Islam, and the benefits it brings in the Hereafter. Additionally, we’ll discuss the importance of praying in the masjid and supporting your local mosque.

Worldly Benefits of Salah
1. A Source of Peace and Mental Clarity

In the modern world, we are constantly bombarded with distractions, stress, and anxiety. Salah provides a much-needed break and a moment of calm. Each prayer serves as a time to disconnect from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with Allah, giving you mental clarity and peace. The rhythmic movements of Salah—bowing, prostrating, and standing—are known to have a calming effect on the mind and body. Many people who maintain regular Salah find that it reduces their stress levels, improves their mood, and allows them to feel more centred and focused throughout the day.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology has even shown that engaging in spiritual practices like prayer can reduce anxiety and depression, improving mental health. When you pray, you are momentarily free from the pressures of the world, which can refresh your mind and spirit for the tasks ahead.

2. Boosting Your Discipline and Time Management

The five daily prayers are performed at specific times throughout the day, requiring you to organize your life around them. Salah teaches you discipline, as you must pause your activities to pray, no matter how busy your day is. This structured routine also sharpens your time management skills, helping you prioritize tasks and focus on what truly matters.

By allocating time for each of the prayers, you learn to manage your time more effectively. The breaks provided by Salah give you the chance to re-evaluate your goals and actions, leading to a more productive and purposeful day. For example, the prayer during the day helps you stay focused, while the evening prayer reminds you to reflect on the day’s accomplishments and challenges.

3. Improved Physical Health

The physical postures of Salah—standing, bowing, and prostrating—offer health benefits. Prostration (Sujood) in particular has been linked to improving circulation and relieving pressure on the spine. The movements of Salah also encourage flexibility, increase joint mobility, and help maintain a healthy posture.

Furthermore, Salah can act as a light form of physical exercise. By performing regular physical movements, such as bowing and prostrating, you maintain physical vitality and health, which in turn positively impacts your overall well-being.

4. Strengthening Your Relationships with Others

One of the key benefits of Salah is that it brings you closer to others in your community. When you attend the masjid for congregational prayers, you connect with fellow Muslims, building a sense of unity and brotherhood. This sense of belonging fosters mutual support, compassion, and love among community members. Whether you are helping a fellow Muslim or receiving support, this bond is a direct result of the shared act of worship in Salah.

Praying together in the masjid also reminds you of the importance of community in Islam, reinforcing the idea that you are part of something much greater than yourself. The collective act of worship strengthens your relationship with your fellow Muslims, which is an essential aspect of your faith.

The Obligation of Salah: A Command from Allah

After understanding the worldly benefits, it’s important to remember that Salah is not merely beneficial for this life; it is also an essential act of worship commanded by Allah.

Quranic Verses on Salah’s Obligation

Allah has made Salah an obligation for every adult Muslim, as a means of maintaining your connection with Him. In the Quran, Allah says:

“Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times.”
إِنَّ الصَّلَاةَ كَانَتْ عَلَى الْمُؤْمِنِينَ كِتَابًا مَّوْقُوتًا
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:103)

This verse emphasizes that Salah is not optional; it is a decree for believers. It is a command from Allah that must be observed at its prescribed times, connecting you to your Creator throughout the day.

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah says:

“And establish prayer and give zakah and obey the Messenger – that you may receive mercy.”
وَأَقِيمُواْ الصَّلَاةَ وَآتُواْ الزَّكَاةَ وَأَطِيعُواْ الرَّسُولَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ
(Surah An-Nur, 24:56)

This verse emphasizes that Salah is tied to Allah’s mercy. By establishing prayer, you open the doors to His blessings and mercy in your life.

The Virtue of Praying in Congregation at the Masjid

While praying at home is valid, the reward of praying in congregation at the masjid is far greater. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“The prayer of a person in congregation is twenty-seven times more rewarding than his prayer in his house or in his shop.”
(Sahih Bukhari)

Attending the masjid for Salah allows you to experience the reward of congregational prayer, which strengthens the bonds of the Muslim community and enhances the collective worship. The masjid serves as a place for not just prayer but also community connection, spiritual growth, and education.

Supporting Your Local Masjid

The masjid is the heart of the Muslim community, and it is vital that you support it, both physically and financially. Regularly attending the masjid for prayers helps maintain the masjid as a thriving centre for worship and community activities. Additionally, your financial support ensures that the masjid can continue its services, such as providing educational programs, holding community events, and offering assistance to those in need.

Allah says in the Quran:

“The mosques of Allah are only to be maintained by those who believe in Allah and the Last Day and establish prayer and give zakah and fear none but Allah.”
إِنَّمَا يَعْمُرُ مَسَاجِدَ اللَّهِ مَن آمَنَ بِاللَّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الْآخِرِ وَأَقَامَ الصَّلَاةَ وَآتَى الزَّكَاةَ وَخَشِيَ اللَّهَ
(Surah At-Tawbah, 9:18)

This verse highlights that maintaining and supporting the masjid is not just a physical act but an act of worship and faith. When you contribute to the masjid, you are not just helping to maintain a building; you are investing in your community’s spiritual growth and ensuring that future generations have a place to gather, learn, and worship.

Conclusion: Embrace Salah for a Better Life and a Stronger Community

The five daily prayers are not just a religious obligation—they are a source of peace, discipline, mental clarity, physical health, and community connection. By prioritizing Salah and attending the masjid, you improve both your personal life and your relationship with fellow Muslims. Furthermore, supporting your local masjid ensures that it remains a vital place of worship and learning for everyone.

So, let us make a conscious effort to establish regular prayers, attend the masjid, and support our local community. Through Salah, we draw closer to Allah, receive His mercy, and strengthen the bonds that unite us as an Ummah. May Allah make it easy for all of us to fulfil this important obligation, and may He grant us success in this life and the Hereafter. Ameen

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Visiting the masjid

Etiquettes of masjid

Everyone entering the masjid should adhere to following key principles:

  • should dress modestly when visiting/entering the masjid covering the arms and legs and not exposing your body in any shape or form
  • female visitors may cover their heads to show respect to other worshippers
  • remove their shoes in certain specific areas around the masjid
  • keep food and drinks out of the masjid, except areas that have been designated as eating areas
  • keep the masjid’s building clean by disposing off litter properly and safely
  • abide by the general rules of the masjid as displayed around the building
  • respect the peace and prayer of worshippers inside the masjid
  • avoid smoking in and around the building including masjid’s carpark area

No parking is permitted at the front of masjid during madrasah hours between 4.45pm and 7.15pm.

Do not park on the grass verge or in front of driveways to avoid inconvenience to others.

Please note that you may asked to leave the premises if any disrespectful or inappropriate behaviour has been observed.

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Month of Muharram

Based on the Islamic culture and traditions, certain days of the year are considered more sacred as compared to others. One of them is the 10thMuharram, or commonly known as “The Day of Ashura.” The virtues of Muharram according to the Quran and Sunnah are as follows:

Virtue 1: Ashura Falls in the Month of Muharram

Not only due to its historical references but also because it comes in one of the four holy months in Islam, the day of Ashura is considered one of the holiest days in Islam. Following the command of the All-Mighty, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) states in one of his Hadith, “The year is twelve months of which four are sacred, the three consecutive months of Dhul-Qa’dah, Dhul-Hijjah and Muharram, and Rajab Mudar which comes between Jumadah and Sha’ban.” (Sahih Al Bukhari)

Though good deeds carry greater rewards in the month of Muharram, sins are considered far worse. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) highlighted the significance of fasting in Muharram by stating,

“The best of fasting after Ramadan is fasting in Allah (SWT)’s month of Muharram.”

(Muslim)

Virtue 2: It Is the Day Allah (SWT) saved the People of Israel

According to Islamic history, the 10th of Muharram was the day when Allah (SWT) miraculously saved Prophet Musa (RA) and his followers from the army of the cruel Pharaoh. It is said that while escaping from the evil Pharaoh (Pheroin) and his army Prophet Musa (RA) and his followers came to a dead-end at the Red sea. With nowhere to go, Prophet Musa (RA) and his followers lost their hope and prayed to Allah (SWT) for help. That’s when on Allah’s (SWT) command, the moment Prophet Musa (RA) struck the sea with his Lathi (wooden sceptre), it miraculously split in half, creating a way for the Israelites to pass through.

Virtue 3: The Journey of Prophet Noah’s Ark Ended at Mount Judi

According to the narration by Imam Ahmad (May Allah have mercy on him), it was the 10th of Muharram when the journey of the ark of Prophet Noah (RA) came to an end on the side of Mount Judi. It’s said that Prophet Noah (RA), on the command of Allah (SWT), built an ark to carry his followers, his family, and pairs of all world animals to a safe location. Though the ark was caught in a dangerous storm, it safely reached its destination on the day of Ashura.

Virtue 4: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Used to Fast on 10th Muharram before Prophethood was Gifted to Him

Imam Malik (may Allah have mercy on him) in his book Muwatta mentions that following the tradition of Prophet Ibrahim (RA) even in the period of Jahiliyyah (ignorance), the polytheists of Makkah would observe fast on 10th Muharram. Therefore, even before prophethood was gifted to him, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to fast on 10th of Muharram. In another narration, Imam Al Qurtubi (may Allah have mercy on him) says, “Perhaps Quraysh used to fast on that day based on some past law, such as that of Prophet Ibrahim (RA).”

Continue reading “Month of Muharram” →
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Muharram: Islamic New Year

  1. What is Muḥarram?
    Muḥarram is the 1st month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commences the new year.
  2. What is the meaning of Muḥarram?
    Muḥarram means “forbidden” or “sacred”. Violating its sanctity is forbidden due to the month being sacred. Conflicts are especially forbidden during this sacred period.
    Being a sacred month, blessings and rewards are excessive in this month.
  3. How is the month sacred?
    Almighty Allāh declared it as sacred in the Qur’ān. (9:36)
    It is dubbed as “Allāh’s month”. (Saḥīḥ Muslim)
    It contains a very blessed day, the 10th, ‘Āshurah day.
    Repentance is accepted this month. (Tirmidhī)
    It is the best month to fast in, after the month of Ramadān. (Saḥīḥ Muslim)
    Each day of fasting in Muḥarram equals 30 days of fasting in rewards. (Ṭabrānī, Targhīb)
  4. What is ‘Āshurah and why is it significant?
    ‘Āshurah is the 10th day of Muḥarram.
    This is the day, Almighty Allāh blessed the Prophet Mūsa (peace and blessings upon him) along with the Israelites, victory and freedom, from the tyranny of the Pharaoh.
  5. Fasting on ‘Āshūrah, what, why and how?
    Prophet Mūsa fasted on this day in appreciation to the Almighty for being saved.
    The Prophet Muḥammad (peace and blessing upon him) fasted on this day and instructed his followers to fast. (Buhkhārī)
    It was a mandatory fast prior to the Ramadān fasting.
    It is mustaḥab (encouraged prophetic practice) to fast on this day.
    One should also fast either on the 9th or 11th along with the 10th if possible. (Abū Dāwūd)
  6. What are the rewards of fasting on ‘Āshūrah?
    Apart from the Muḥarram virtues listed above, the forgiveness of an entire year. (Saḥīḥ Muslim)
  7. What else can one do on ‘Āshūrah?
    Be more generous in spending upon family. This will result in Allāh’s blessings for a whole year. (Bayhaqī)
  8. What about the illustrious Imam Husayn (may Allāh be pleased with him) and the household of the Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) in Muḥarram?
    There is no link with the great personality and Muḥarram apart from the fact that his martyrdom happened to occur in Muḥarram.
    We cherish, respect and love Ḥusayn (may Allāh be pleased with him) and the family of the Prophet (peace and blessings upon him). (Tirmidhī)
    We learn from their lives and teachings.
    We are saddened by the troubled happenings of the past, including the martyrdom of Ḥusayn (may Allāh be pleased with him) however we do not mourn, wail, curse or self inflict torture in memory of any such sad happenings. (Bukhārī)
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Charity: A Path to Jannah

  • in Islam, charity is one of the most important pillars of faith
  • it is a way to show our gratitude to Allah for His blessings, and to help those in need
  • one of the best ways to give charity is to contribute towards building a new mosque
Please donate generously towards masjid’s rebuild project by completing the donation form. You can make a one-off, monthly or yearly donation.

Charity is an act of giving to those in need, without expecting anything in return. It is a way to show our gratitude to Allah for His blessings, and to help those who are less fortunate than us. In Islam, charity is one of the most important pillars of faith. It is mentioned in the Quran many times, and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often encouraged his followers to give charity.

“Those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah and do not follow up their favor with reminders of their generosity or injury, their reward is with their Lord. There will be no fear for them, nor will they grieve.” 

(Quran 2:262)

There are many benefits to giving charity. It helps to purify our hearts, and to increase our love for Allah. It also helps to remove our sins, and to bring us closer to Paradise. In addition, charity can help to improve the lives of those in need, and to make the world a better place.

One of the best ways to give charity is to contribute towards building a new mosque. Mosques are places where Muslims can come together to worship Allah, to learn about Islam, and to build community. They are also important centers for social services, and they can provide a safe haven for those in need.

“And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw yourselves into destruction with your own hands. And do good; surely Allah loves the doers of good.”

(Quran 2:195)
Continue reading “Charity: A Path to Jannah” →