Purification of the soul. This is a very important aspect of the Muslim's life. Unfortunately, many have neglected this vital right of their souls... "Indeed he succeeds who purifies his ownself (i.e. obeys and performs all that Allâh ordered, by following the true Faith of Islâmic Monotheism and by doing righteous good deeds). " (Surah Ash-Shams [91]:9)

Sub-Categories :

Honouring the Parents Major Sins

Our Provisions for Revival Weeping from the Fear of Allâh

Items in this Category :

Beware of jealousy, for verily it destroys good deeds the way fire destroys wood

The Objectives of Fasting (Maqâsid as-Sawm) #1 by al-'Izz ibn 'Abdis-Salâm - A scholarly extract highlighting the reasons why we fast in Ramadân. Fasting is a means for our sins to be forgiven and a path away from the the torment of the hell fire, as fasting reminds us of the hunger and thirst that these wicked inhabitants will experience and drives us to obey Allâh and avoid this evil destination.

Humility in Prayer by Ahmad ibn Hanbal - You should know - may Allâh have mercy upon you - that when the slave [of Allâh] leaves his house to go to the mosque, that he is going to face Allâh, the Irresistible, the One, the Omnipotent, the Exalted in Might, the Oft-forgiving, in the knowledge that nothing is hidden from Allâh, wherever it might be, and that nothing is hidden from Allâh and that even something as small as a mustard seed is not concealed from Him, nor even something smaller, nor larger - in the seven earths or the seven heavens, in the seven seas or the lofty mountains, fixed and firm.

The Virtues of Patience by ’Abdur-Rahmân ibn Hasan - The word sabr (in the Arabic language) is from sabara - to be patient and to persevere, and it indicates to holding back and restraining oneself. (In the Sharî’ah sense) it implies: restraining the soul from being agitated; restraining the tongue from complaining and restraining the hands from slapping the cheeks, tearing the clothes and doing other similar actions.

Islamic Manners (4): Good Treatment of Parents (Birr al-Wâlidayn) by Abû Rumaysah - From the al-Adâb al-Islâmî (Islamic Manners) series: Disobedience to parents is to oppose them in their desires and objectives that are permissible, likewise to be good to them is to obey them in their permissible goals and objectives. Therefore if one of them, or both of them, order their child with something, it is obligatory upon him to obey them so long as that order contains nothing that would incur disobedience of Allâh.

Islamic Manners (3): Justice (Inŝâf) by Abû Rumaysah - From the al-Adâb al-Islâmî (Islamic Manners) series: The whole of the Islamic Law is just and stands for justice, it promotes it and prohibits its opposite: injustice and wrongdoing

Repentance to Allâh (at-Tawbah ilâ Allâh) by Salih as Sadlan - True Tawbah is not only expressed in feelings from the heart and words on the lips, but also in the penitent individual's actions. He should be driven by his desire for absolution to correct whatever wrong he has done and make amends. Allâh (Azza Wa Jallâh) promises to pardon those who are so inclined.

Islamic Manners (2): Fulfilling the Trusts by Abû Rumaysah - From the al-Adâb al-Islâmî (Islamic Manners) series: The meaning of fulfilling trusts is general to discharging our duties to Allâh, the Muslims, and His creation

Islamic Manners (1): Şidq (Truthfulness) by Abû Rumaysah - From the al-Adâb al-Islâmî (Islamic Manners) series

Encouraging What is Right by 'Abdul-'Azîz Ibn Bâz - Lessons from Sûrat ul 'Asr on Commanding the Good

Forgiveness: The Mark of a Believer by Ibn Taymiyyah - How to develop this important trait.

Al-Istighfâr (Seeking Forgiveness) by Ibn Taymiyyah - The merits and methods of seeking forgiveness

Fruits of Taqwa by Muhammad ibn Sâlih al-'Uthaymîn - This is the English translation of the book Min Thamaraatit-Taqwaa clearly illustrates the excellence of the muttaqee (the one who has Taqwaa) and shows that when Taqwaa affects the soul then changes should become apparent in the believer’s character, priorities and even his voice! It shows how it facilitates the believer in gaining knowledge and remaining strong, and all this is just a brief mention of what is within these covers.

Thankfulness towards Allâh by Yahya Adel Ibrahîm - The Importance of Shukr

The Way to Allâh's Mercy by Abû Anas Muhammed Mûsa Nasr - Ways to be showered in the Mercy of Allâh

The Righteous Action by Muhammad Nâsir ad-Dîn al-Albânî - Al-Ibaanah Issue No.1,Dhul-Qa’dah 1415H / April 1995: This is the reality of this world in the Sharî’ah, it has no value. The similitude of this world is like good food and drink: its outcome is decay. The exceptions arc those things which are done for Allâh whether remembrance of Allâh, knowledge or even food because it helps to support the worship of Allâh...

Advice of Hatim al-Asamm by Laila Mabrûk - A Concise dialogue, describing eight valuable characteristics a Muslim should try and achieve

Traps of Iblees by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - from At-Tafseer Al-Qayyim of Shaikh Ibn Al-Qayyim [Al-Hijra magazine]

Safeguarding the Tongue - The Importance of controlling our speech:..If anyone guarantees me whats between his jaws and between his legs, I shall guarantee him Jannah...Prophet Muhammed (saws)

Some Poems to ponder over - A Collection of Beautiful Poems

The advice of Ibraaheem ibn Adham by Laila Mabrûk - On how to control ones desires

Khushoo In Prayer by Ibn Rajab - Regarding how to achieve Khushoo' in Prayer.

Summary of the Effects of Sins - A Comprehensive list of the effects of Sins upon oneself and the ummah

Mending the Rift - Guidelines to help you observe the Fajr Prayer. Written by an anonymous student of Islamic knowledge with an introduction by Sheikh Abdullah Ibn Jibreen

The Great Virtue of Lowering the Gaze by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Taken from 'al-Muntaqaa min Ighaathatul Lufhaan fee Masaayid ash-Shaytaan' [pp.'s 102-105] of ibn al-Qayyim, summarised by Alee Hasan

Extracts from Purification of the Soul - The first three chapters taken from the book “Purification of the Soul”, one of the great books on the matters of the heart. The book is a compilation of the works of Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali, Ibn Al-Qayyim al-Jawziayy and Abu Hamid al-Ghazali

The Intention is the Foundation of Every Action by Ibn Rajab - Translated excerpts from the beautiful work by Imaam Ibn Rajab al-Hanbalee (RH) entitled 'Jaami Al-Uloom wal Hikm' in which he has a detailed commentary on 50 ahaadeeth of the Messenger, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam. (Basically an-Nawawee’s 42 ahaadeeth with 8 added on)

How to Achieve Taqwa by Salîm al-Hilâlî - A brief description of the way to achieve the best of provisions, Taqwa (fear of Allah)

Contemplation by Muhammad ibn Sâlih al-'Uthaymîn - Excerpts from the explanation of one of the classcical works 'Riyaadh as-Saaliheen'. The explanation is by the noble Sheikh Ibn 'Uthaymeen

Repentence - Asking Allah's forgiveness is something that every muslim must engage in throught his/her whole life in order to achieve success insha'Allah

The Waseeyah of 'Ali ibn Abi Talib to Kumail ibn Ziyad an-Nakha'el by Abû Nu'aim - Advise from the fourth Caliph of Islaam, 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, on knowledge and its importance

Tests for the Believers: Fluctuation of Life by Salîm al-Hilâlî - The Sheikh brings many ahadith showing the reality of the meaning of hardships and the blessing that is contained in them.

Al-Wasiyyah As-Sugharaa by Ibn Taymiyyah - The Concise Legacy of ibn Taymiyyah. A throughly comprehensive text regarding the religion of Islaam and advice for the muslims

The Last Sermon of Allah's Messenger (saws) by Prophet Muhammad (salallâhu alayhi wa salam) - The last Sermon delivered by the Messanger of Allah (saws) before his noble death

Leaving that which does not concern you by Nathim Sultân - Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Messenger of Allah, sallallahu 'alayhi wa sallam, said, what translated means, 'A sign of one's excellence in his Islam, is ignoring what does not concern him.' Related by Ahmad, Malik & At-Tirmithi

Creation is in need of Allah by Sâlih as-Sâlih - Based upon an article by Imaam Ibn al Qayyim al-Jawzeeyah in his book, "Igathatul-Lahfan min Massa'id Ash-Shaytaan: The Relief of the Yearning (person) from the Traps of the Devil)"

Forty Hadeeth On: The Islamic Personality by 'Alî Hasan 'Alî 'Abdul Hamîd - A Collection of Forty Hadeeth focusing on the personality/characteristics of the true Believer

Fawaa'id : Points of Benefit by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Beautiful Quotes by Shaykh Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah, in which he highlights six points of benefit, in light of our actions and soul

The Secret Behind Asking Forgiveness After the Prayers by Muhammad Jamalu-Dîn al-Qasîmî - It is asked: Why do the Angels experience fear when they are sinless, sins being the cause for fear? What was the reason for the extreme fear of the Prophet (SAW) despite his knowing that Allah had forgiven his past and future sins and that he was the closest of creation to Allah?

Guidance of the Prophet in Fasting by Aa'id 'Abdullâh al-Qarnî - From the Book 30 lessons for those who Fast: It contains the most pertinent Quranic verses, authentic hadiths, delightful poetry and touching advice. It is, therefore, a book for the righteous when they meet for pleasant converstions. It is also a a gift for the wayfarers when they break their journeys for rest, a treasure for those who share mutual love and respect, when they assemble for picnics...

The Month of Ramadhân: “…in which the Qur’ân was revealed” by Abu Eesa Niamatullah - "So the reciting of the Qur’ân is a ‘business deal’ with Allâh that returns a profit that will never perish, continuing all the time and never ending, but in Ramadhân it is even more greater and emphasised, for the Prophet ( sallallâhu ‘alayhi wa sallam) used to increase his attention to the Qur’ân in this month, for a number of reasons...."

(Adapted from the works of the two Shaykhs ibn Bâz and ibn ‘Uthaymîn rahimahumallâh)

The Month of Ramadhân: The Tarâwîh Prayers by Abu Eesa Niamatullah - "To stand in prayer during the nights of Ramadhân is referred to as Salât at-Tarâwîh (the Night Prayer). Linguistically, scholars have mentioned its meaning to be linked to the relaxing and enjoyable nature of this prayer...."

(Adapted from the works of the two Shaykhs ibn Bâz and ibn ‘Uthaymîn rahimahumallâh)

Family Values - The Mother - A well researched article that contains a great admonition regarding our treatment of our parents.

How to Seek Laylatul Qadr by Muhammad Nâsir ad-Dîn al-Albânî - Laylatul-Qadr is the most blessed night. A person who misses it has indeed missed a great amount of good. If a believing person is zealous to obey his Lord and increase the good deeds in his record, he should strive to encounter this night and to pass it in worship and obedience....

Beacons upon the Path - Al Ibaanah Issue No.1, Dhul-Qa'dah 1415H / April 1995: A Collection of Ahaadeeth of Importance to One's Understanding of the Deen and his Character

Symptoms Of the Heart's Sickness & Signs of Its Health - Taken from the book 'The Purification of the Soul': This heart has only one concern: that all its actions, and its inner thoughts and utterances, are obedient to Allah

Allah's Greatness by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - From the beautiful words of the famous Imaam, describing the Greatness of Allah: The hearts are unmasked to Him and the secret is unveiled. His giving and punishing is merely a Command, "Verily, His Command, when He intends a thing, is only that He says to it, 'Be, and it is!'" [36:82]...

How does the Heart fast? by Aa'id 'Abdullâh al-Qarnî - From the Book 30 lessons for those who Fast: The believer’s heart glows like a lamp, shines like the sun and sparkles like the morning light. It increases in faith whenever the believer listens to the verses of the Quran, it grows in conviction when it contemplates, and increases in guidance when it reflects...

Spiritual Awakening (At Tanbeeh) by Umm Muhammad - All things in creation have a beginning, and our beginning is an awakening... the realization that within oneself all is not well. This awakening may come early in life, or it may come quite late. And even, perhaps, there might be several beginnings after periods of stagnation. Yet, each beginning holds the highest potential, and this is a great mercy from Allah.

The Definition of Riyâ' by Abû Ammâr Yasir al-Qadhî - From a Sharî'ah point of view, it means "to perform acts which are pleasing to Allâh. with the intention of pleasing other than Allâh". The intention may be a totally false intention, where the person who does this act has no consciousness of Allâh whatsoever, or it may be a partially false intention, where the person does have Allâh in mind, but at the same time desires praise from other people.

Requirements of the Journey by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - One of the best ways of mutual support (in righteousness and piety) is to help one another on the journey of migration to Allâh and to ar-Rasûl (peace be on him) with hands, tongues and hearts, and by teaching, educating and caring.

Symptoms of Weak Faith - A hard hearted person remains indifferent when he does not perform some good deeds and misses those times of worship that have more reward in them.

Aspects of Increasing Imân by Ibn Taymiyyah - Increasing the Imân which Allâh commands us to have, and which is a trait of His believing worshipers, can be achieved through different means.

The Duâ' of Light - A small hadîth which provides the reader with one of the most beautiful dua's uttered by the Prophet Muhammad salallâhû alayhe wa salam

The Hardening of the Heart by Abû Amînah Bilâl Philips - Advice on how to nurture a soft heart, full of rememberence of Allâh. A transcript of a lecture at Darul Arqâm, Singapore, 26th November 1998

The Night Prayer - Many Qur'anic verses speak about the excellence of Qiyam and the merits of those people, who perform Qiyam al-Layl on a regular basis, for example, Allah describes the believers who deserve Jannah saying: “They (the believers) forsake their beds, to invoke their Lord in fear and hope; and they spend out of what We have bestowed on them.” [Soorah as-Sajdah (32): 16] “They (the pious) used to sleep but little at night.” [Surah ath-Thariyat (51): 17]

The Hajj - A Poem by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - An heart rendering poem on Hajj by the doctor of the soul: Taken from Awdah al-Masalik ila Ahkam al-Manasik by 'Abd al-'Aziz al-Muhammad al-Salman

Hasad- Evil Eye and Envy by Yahya Adel Ibrahîm - This disease of the heart and the sin which is known as hasad was one of the first sins ever committed. It was one of the main things that drove Satan away from his Lord.

Dead Hearts by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - While thousands of Muslims are killed all over the world, and while tens of thousands are imprisoned and tortured for calling to the path of Allah and for enjoining the good and forbidding the evil, most Muslims remain remarkably silent and have no worry except for the material things of life. Their hearts have been filled with the love of this life and the forgetfulness of the Hereafter...

Falling into Sin - This is an excellent article. Quote: "You have already been affected by the dirt of sin, so you might as well keep on going. So many times you have tried to repent, but to no avail. You are weak, there remains no hope for you torepent, and your way is different from that of the pious!" – taken from al-Jumuah magazine

The Feeling of Alienation (Al-Ghurabah) by Umm Muhammad - Taken from her Book, Realities of Faith: Among the realities of faith and facts of life is this, The true adherents to the Straight Path of Allah (as-sirat al-mustaqeem) are a small minority, living as strangers in society....

The Advice of Sufyân ath-Thawrî by Salîm al-Hilâlî - From Al-Ibaanah Issue 1, Dhul-Qa’dah 1415H / April 1995: And he was one of the noble ones of Shâm and their worshippers, and Sufyân ath-Thawrî wrote the famous letter to him, being a testament, and mention of manners, wisdoms, examples and admonitions, taken from Min Wasâyus-Salaf (pp.19-25)

Enslavement of the Hearts by Sulaymân as-Sulaymî - Al-Ibaanah Issue No.1 - Dhul-Qa’dah 1415H / April 1995: Purification of the Soul through understanding the Oneness of Allah...

The Causes of Riyâ' by Abû Ammâr Yasir al-Qadhî - The primary cause of riyâ' is a weakness in خmân. When a person does not have strong faith in Allâh, he will prefer the admiration of people over the pleasure of Allâh. This weakness in îmân causes a person to ignore the blessings and rewards of the Hereafter, and increases a person's desire for fame and prestige in this world.

The light of guidance by Ahmad ibn ‘Abd al-Rahmân al-Swiyân - This seed of goodness is always fighting in man's heart, even when it is covered by layers of whims and desires. When Allâh wills good for His slave, He causes the light of guidance to shine in his heart and guides him to the path of those who are guided.

The Manners of Companionship by Badrud-Dîn al-Ghazzî - The Prophet, May the Peace and Blessings be upon him, said: “A person is upon the religion of his friend, so let every one of you look to whom he keeps as a friend.”

Life is a Fitnah! by Sâlih âl-ush Shaykh - This article describes a number of fitn which are brought to light from Sûrah Al-'Ankabût: 'In this Sûrah, Sûrah Al-'Ankabût, Allâh mentions the varieties of trials and the foundations that they are built upon. He also mentions how a man may be saved from these kinds of trials....That is because this worldly life, in reality, is merely a test and a trial...'

Living Islaam Daily by Husayn al-'Awâyishah - This article list some daily Islamic activities that we should add to our routines.

Warning Signs of Riyâ' by Abû Ammâr Yasir al-Qadhî - Certain actions do not directy fall under riyâ' but are the preliminary steps leading to it. They are like signs. warning of the impending arrival of riyâ'. If a person finds himself involved in any of these actions, he should honestly question his motives in doing them in order to avoid actually falling into riyâ'.

The Mountain Pass by Muhammad al-Sharîf - In Sûrah Balad, Allâh teaches us about the mountain pass that must be climbed in our lives. And this way of climbing that I've just described is very close to how Allâh wants us to overcome this mountain pass - hard and strong! But wait ... what mountain pass?

The Third Parent by Muhammad al-Sharîf - Today - in sha’ Allâh - we would like to speak about TV and it’s dark side. It is not our intention to make you race home to throw the TV off the balcony - although that would be nice. It is our hope that you will leave today in sha’ Allâh with a better understanding of the destructive nature the TV has on a persons life and hereafter, not only his own, but also his family and children.

How to Erase Our Sins - Following is a compilation of Ahadith that deal with ways in which we can erase our sins, InshaAllâh!

The Four Poisons Of The Heart - Taken from the book “Purification of the Soul”, one of the great books on the matters of the heart. The book is a compilation of the works of Ibn Rajab al-Hanbalî, Ibn Al-Qayyim al-Jawzî and Abî Hamîd al-Ghazalî...

How to Read the Books of the People of Knowledge by Sâlih âl-ush Shaykh - Excellent advice on the manners of taking from the books of knowledge. Providing an invaluable guide in avoiding the common mistakes of the youth in this regard.

Repentance by Muhammad ibn Sâlih al-'Uthaymîn - O my brother who has fallen into sins, do not despair from the mercy of your Lord, for indeed the door to repentance is open until the sun rises from the west....

Mercy by Abû Bakr Jâbir al-Jaza'iry - The Muslim is merciful, for mercy is one of the traits of a Muslim, since it is the source of a pure soul and spirit. By being kind, doing righteous deeds, staying away from evil, and shunning corruption, the Muslim's soul abides in purity and his spirit remains in goodness. Since this is the case, then mercy would never separate from his heart at all. It is for this reason that the Muslim loves mercy, he spreads and encourages it and calls others to it.

Developing Love for Allaah by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - ....these are ten matters which cause the lover to reach the station of true love for Allaah, so that he may then reach Allaah - his Beloved

Ramadan: The Month of Standing Up at Night by Aa'id 'Abdullâh al-Qarnî - From the Book 30 lessons for those who Fast: If nights set in, the hearts of the negligent sleep and the spirits of the playful die while the hearts of the believers come to life with wide awakened and fearful eyes. How can one who remembers the repose of the grave, the gathering of mankind and the decisive manifestation ever sleep?...

Goodbye My Beloved by Muhammad al-Sharîf - When death hits so closely to home, to ones so young, many questions arise. For this reason we would like to speak today about this topic: How do we say goodbye?

Contemplating the Case of the Human without Senses by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Consider the case of the human who is deprived of the sense of sight. Think how grave is his bereavement. He does not see where to put his step, does not see what is in front of him, does not distinguish colours and agreeable and disagreeable sights; he does not benefit from the scholarship of books; he is unable to reflect and contemplate the wonders of Allah’s creation.

Satan Hinders the Slave from Acting by Means of Procrastination and Laziness by 'Umar Sulayman al-Ashqar - From the book "The World of the Jinn and Devils "

Be in this life as if you were a stranger or a traveller on a path by Ibn Rajab - ...A believer must not take this life as a homeland or permanent residence, his heart being tranquil and resting assured within it. Rather, he must be in it as if he were on a journey, preparing himself to depart...

I Have Divided... by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - The Noble Imâm's, May Allâh sanctify his soul, commentary On The Hadîth Qudsî: "I have divided the prayer between Myself and My servant"

Love of Allah by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - A Beautiful Poem excerpted from the book An-Nuniyyah, by the great scholar of the past, known as the Doctor of the Soul, At-Tabib an-Nufus

The Definition of Patience by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - In the spiritual sense, patience means to stop ourselves from despairing and panicking, to stop our tongues from complaining, and to stop our hands from striking our faces and tearing our clothes at times of grief and stress.

Different perspectives on patience by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Some people cannot have patience without struggling and facing many difficulties. Others are able to have patience easily. The first type is like a man who wrestles with a strong man and cannot beat him with the utmost effort. The second type is like a man who wrestles with a weak man and beats him easily. Such is the war between the soldiers of ar-Rahmân and the soldiers of Shaytân. Whoever defeats the soldiers of Shaytân can defeat Shaytân himself.

Five Categories of Patience by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Patience can also be divided into categories following the five categories of deeds, namely wâjib (obligatory), mandûb (encouraged), mahdhûr (forbidden), makrûh (disliked) and mubâh (permissible).

Good Patience and Bad Patience by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Bad patience means having patience in keeping away from Allâh and His love and His will, because this prevents a person from fulfilling his potential of attaining perfection and doing what he was created for.

Ways of Strengthening Patience by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - As patience is fard (obligatory), Allâh has provided us with ways and means of obtaining and strengthening the quality of patience, for He has never instructed us to do something without providing us with help and support to do it, and ways and means of achieving it. He has never created a disease without creating a cure for it, and He has guaranteed cure when medicine is used. Even so, patience is difficult, but it is not impossible to attain

Man cannot do without patience by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - At any given moment, a person is in a situation where he has to obey a command of Allâh, or he has to stay away from something which Allâh has prohibited, or he has to accept a decree of Allâh, or he has to give thanks (show gratitude) for a blessing which he has received from Allâh. All of these situations demand patience, so up until the time of death, no-one can do without patience.

What is the most difficult type of patience? by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - The degree of difficulty in abstaining from some things depends on the strength of one’s motive and one’s ability to do the action in question. Whoever has no motive to kill, or steal, or drink alcohol, or whatever, and at the same time in not able to do it, will find it very easy to exercise patience in abstaining from those things. Whoever has a strong motive to commit a wrong action and has the means to do so, will face great difficulty in exercising enough patience to abstain.

Patience in the Qur’ân by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Imâm Ahmad said: “Allâh has mentioned patience in the Qur’ân in ninety places.” Here, we will list the different contexts in which patience appears.

Ahâdîth about patience by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - “The Prophet (SAAS) said: ‘No affliction befalls a Muslim but Allâh forgives his wrong actions because of it, even if it be no more than a thorn’.”

Sahâbah on the virtues of patience by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - ‘Umar ibn al-Khattâb (RA) said: “The best days we ever lived were by virtue of patience, and if patience were to take the shape of a man, he would be a noble and generous man.”

Patience at the time of bereavement by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - The loss of a loved one is a time when a person may be overwhelmed with grief, and many customs surrounding bereavement reflect the depth of the feeling of loss. Wailing, eulogizing (i.e. praising the deceased excessively) and tearing one’s garments are all customs which were well known at the time of Jâhiliyyah, and are still common among some Muslims.

Promises, Promises by Sumayyah bint Joan - No two words can invoke as much hope and confidence as, "I promise." As children we are taught that promises are unbreakable pledges which cannot be defaulted on under any circumstances. But, as we grow older, the old adage of, "promises were meant to be broken," more often justifies the lack of commitment and follow-through placed behind these two words.

Promises and Hopes by 'Umar Sulayman al-Ashqar - In their battle against the believers, he (Satan) promised the disbelievers aid, honor and victory. Then he fled from them and left them by themselves.

Patience is half of Imân by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - It is through faith that we know the reality of Allâh’s commands and prohibitions, or reward and punishment, and it is through patience that we carry out His instructions and abstain from that which He has prohibited.

Patience and loving Allâh by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Patience is one of the most important qualities demanded of those who claim to love Allâh, as the degree of patience determines those who are sincere in their claim and those who are not. The degree of patience needed to endure hardship and difficulties in order to please the Beloved proves the sincerity of one’s love.

Gratitude in the Qur’ân by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - Allâh has divided people into two categories, the people of gratitude (shukr) and the people of ingratitude (kufr). The thing most disliked by Him is kufr and the people of kufr, the thing most liked by Him is gratitude and the people of gratitude.

Kindness and Generosity by Abû Bakr Jâbir al-Jaza'iry - Generosity is a characteristic of the Muslim, and kindness is his disposition. The Muslim should not be miserly and stingy, for these are two reprehensible traits whose presence spoils the soul and darkens the heart. The Muslim's faith and righteous deeds purify and radiate his heart, so being stingy and miserly negates the purity of the soul, and the light of the heart. So a Muslim is not miserly or stingy.

The Creator of Death and Life by Muhammad al-Sharîf - Death is a reality isn't it? You can't read the paper or watch the news without being confronted by it. But we are reminded in verse after verse that there is someone who has power over death. That someone is Allah, glorious and most high.

Etiquette of making du’aa’ (supplication) by Muhammad Sâlih al-Munajjid - Allaah loves to be asked, and He encourages that in all things. He is angry with the one who does not ask of Him and He encourages His slaves to ask of Him.

Humility in Prayer by Ibn Rajab - "Verily those who were given knowledge before it (the Qur'ân), when it is recited to them, they fall upon their faces in prostration, and they say, "Glorified is our Lord! Indeed the Promise of our Lord has been fulfilled." And they fall upon their faces weeping, and it (the Qur'ân) increases them in humility." [Sûratul-Isrâ' 17:107-109]

Reliance upon Allah by Abû Bakr Jâbir al-Jaza'iry - A Muslim does not see reliance upon Allah in his deeds as merely a necessity, rather he sees it as a religious obligation, being among the elements of the Islamic creed, since Allah the Almighty has ordered it.

In Search of Sincerity by Muhammad al-Sharîf - When one looks over the text of the Qur’ân and Sunnah, they will come to the realization that Allâh ta’ala and His Messenger – sal Allâhu alayhi wa sallam – speak about sincerity in different aspects: Sincerity in Tawheed of Allâh and sincerity in our intentions. Sincerity in our worship, such as in Salah, Sujood, Fasting, standing in Ramadan, standing in the night of Qadr, sincere love for the Masjid, Zakah, Sadaqah, Hajj, Jihâd, repentance, supplications, recitation of the Qur’ân, and so much more.

The Love of Allâh by Adnan Abdul-Qadir - Do we really love Allâh? Do our actions really convey what we profess with our tongues? How do we fair in comparison with our pious forefathers?

How the Islamic faith encourages worldly advancement - The Muslims are not like anyone else. When they adhere to their religion, they are at the forefront in worldly affairs too, but when they forsake their religion and neglect it, they end up tailing behind others. The Muslims’ religion motivates them to advance, and they fall behind when they fall away from their religion.

Before the Sand Slips Away by Muhammad al-Sharîf - For many living in Western countries, Ramadan is passed daily with 9 to 5 jobs or school - nights where we may or may not go for Taraweeh. A peak at the TV (may Allah protect us) and the night is over. Back to work where all around us people are eating and drinking from crystal water fountains. Blink. Ramadan is over.

The Importance of Giving – Charity Starts Here by Abu Eesa Niamatullah - To give from ones wealth in charity is from one of the greatest actions that Allâh has blessed the Muslim Nation with. To spend in charity or sadaqah as it is known, has been mentioned in numerous Qur'ânic verses and Prophetic narrations. Its importance and necessity simply cannot be emphasised enough

Be in this life as if you were a stranger or a traveller on a path by Ibn Rajab - A believer must not take this life as a homeland or permanent residence, his heart being tranquil and resting assured within it. Rather, he must be in it as if he were on a journey, preparing himself to depart.

The Most Merciful shows Mercy to those who have Mercy on Others by Muhammad Musa Nasr - Allaah has named Himself Ar-Rahmaan and Ar-Raheem, so he is the Most Merciful of this world and the Hereafter (i.e. Ar-Rahmaan) and the bestower and giver of mercy (i.e. Raheem). This is why He has commanded it in every place and in every situation. So every action that is void of mercy, then there is no blessing in it, nor any good. And the servants of Allaah showing mercy towards one another is a cause for Allaah sending His mercy down on them.

The isolation of the youth from surah Kahf from an astray, oppressing nation by Ibn Kathîr - This article extracts points of benefit for those believing youth that find themselves surrounded by a corrupt disbelieving society.

The Inner Secrets of Fasting by Ibn Qudâmah al-Maqdisî - Know, that in the fast (Sawm) is a special quality that is not found in anything else. And that is its close connection to Allah, such that He says: "The fast (Sawm) is for Me and I will reward it." [Sahîh al-Bukhârî and Muslim]. This connection is enough to show the high status of fasting.

Advice after Ramadaan by Muhammad Sâlih al-Munajjid - If a Muslim continues to have the patience to do righteous deeds after Ramadaan, this is a sign that his (fasting) has been accepted by his Lord, the Most Generous, the Bestower of blessings. If he fails to do righteous deeds after Ramadaan, and follows the ways of the Shaytaan, this is a sign of humiliation, meanness, lowly status and being deprived of the help of Allaah.

Etiquette with One's Parents by Abû Bakr Jâbir al-Jaza'iry - A Muslim believes in his parents' rights upon him and his obligation to be good to them, obey them and to treat them in the best way. This is not just because they are the cause for his existence. It is also not just because they did a great deal of good to him that he must repay and respond to in a proper manner. But it is first and foremost because Allah the Almighty has made it obligatory upon him to obey them.

A Reminder about the Virtues of Ramadhan by Muhammad Sâlih al-Munajjid - Allâh has blessed His slaves with certain seasons of goodness, in which hasanât (rewards for good deeds) are multiplied, sayi’ât (bad deeds) are forgiven, people’s status is raised, the hearts of the believers turn to their Master, those who purify themselves attain success and those who corrupt themselves fail. One of the greatest acts of worship is fasting.

Ihsan by Abû Bakr Jâbir al-Jaza'iry - The Muslim does not consider Ihsan - meaning to do things in the best possible manner - to be merely a virtuous trait that beautifies character. Rather he considers Ihsan to be part of his creed and a major part of his Islam, since the religion of Islam is founded upon three matters: faith, Islam and Ihsan.

Bad Characteristics : Oppression by Abû Bakr Jâbir al-Jaza'iry - The Muslim does not behave unjustly, nor should he be dealt with unjustly. He is not the cause of oppression for anyone, nor does he accept being oppressed by anyone.

Bad Characteristics: Envy by Abû Bakr Jâbir al-Jaza'iry - The Muslim does not envy, since envy is not part of the Muslim characteristic, it will not befit the Muslim as long as he has a love of good for others and behaves unselfishly. This is because envy is a contradiction to the love of good for others and selflessness.

Death : A Brief Reminder - This is a short poem serving as a reminder of death and the varying states of those that suffer the inevitable.

From the Weapons of the Believers in Their War Against Shaytan: Sticking to the Book and the Sunnah by 'Umar Sulayman al-Ashqar - "The World of the Jinn and Devils" آ© 1998 al-Basheer Company for Publications and Translations

Manners and Traits Every Muslim Should be Adorned with by Abdul Karim Al-Khodheir - Islam prescribes certain manners and traits for every Muslim to adorn his / her character

Hard-heartedness: Disapproval, Causes and Remedies by Al-Hafidh Zainuddin Abu Al-Faraj Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali - No one has been afflicted with a greater calamity than hardheartedness.

Important Du'âs by Yahya Adel Ibrahîm - Selected Du'âs that one can memorise and use in one's daily life

Censure of this World by Al-Imâm as-Suyûtî - al-Budûr as-Sâfirah fî Aĥwâl al-آkhirah, summarised.

"All praise and thanks are due to Allâh who taught His allies the pitfalls of this world and its dangers, and exposed to them its defects and flaws. As a result, they were able to weigh its good points against its bad and realised that its evil outweighed its good, that what is to be aspired to in it does not equate to what is feared from it, and that none who is raised by it can feel secure that it will not one day disgrace him."

Charity and Relief Works by 'Abdur-Rahmân As-Sudais - O you generous and noble people! Hurry up onto the field of mutual compassion. Console your brethren with your gifts and know that your kindness to them will alleviate their sufferings. Many verses of the Qur’ân and many hadîths encourage you to assist your brethren who are in need. Allâh says: “And whatever you spend in good, it is for yourselves, when you spend not except seeking Allâh’s Countenance. And whatever you spend in good, it will be repaid to you in full, and you shall not be wronged.” (Al-Baqarah 2:272)

Ways To Strengthen One’s Memory by Yahya Adel Ibrahîm - The article summarises practical ways in which one can strengthen one’s memory. Allâh says: “…And remember your Lord when you forget…” [al-Kahf 18:24]

The Righteous Action - Part 2 by Muhammad Nâsir ad-Dîn al-Albânî - Many people unfortunately neglect the first condition (complying with the Sunnah) because they are astray and believe that bid’ah (innovation) is good in the religion. But there are those upon whom Allâh has granted His favour, by guiding them to the Sunnah of the Prophet (sal-Allâhu ‘alayhe wa sallam).

They are those who know the reality of this condition and adhere to it the best they can. Yet they must pay attention to the second condition, which any group may fail to fulfill, and that is riyâ’ (insincerity and showing-off). No one is exempt from riyâ’ and all people are susceptible to it in their actions.

The Righteous Action - Part 1 by Muhammad Nâsir ad-Dîn al-Albânî - The Prophet (sal-Allâhu ‘alayhe wa sallam) encouraged us to make our actions righteous, whether gaining wealth or other things. However, we must remember that there are two conditions that a Muslim must fulfil in order for the action to be righteous...

Compassion by 'Alî Abd-ur-Rahmân al-Hudhaifî - The Messenger of Allâh said, “Indeed, Allâh created mercy in one hundred parts. And He sent only one part to the earth by which the creatures show compassion to one another. It is out of this one part that you see a horse or a she-camel raises her hoof off her young one lest she crushes it. Allâh withholds the remaining ninety nine parts in order to shower it on His slaves on the Day of Resurrection.” (Al-Bukhârî)

Advising the Students of Knowledge - The Great Shaikh Al-Khatîb Al-Baghdâdî in the introduction of his book, "Iqtidâ-ul-'Ilm Al-'Amal" gives sincere advice to the student of Knowledge.

People of Imân and Piety Readily Accept the Truth by Usâmah Khayyat - Fellow Muslims! It is part of a Muslim’s magnanimity, nobility and good manners to always seek for and surrender to the truth out of desire for the pleasure of Allâh and out of fear of falling into the abyss of arrogance.

Allâh says, “That home of the Hereafter (i.e. Paradise), We shall assign to those who rebel not against the truth with pride and oppression in the land nor do mischief by committing crimes. And the good end is for the pious.” (Al-Qasas 28:83)

Which One Are You? by Yahya Adel Ibrahîm - A Hadîth describing the four kinds of people in this world. It is time for us to question ourselves to see which category we may fall in to.

Strengthening the Motive of Reason and Religion by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah - "In the battle between reason/religion and whims/desires, we have the following weapons at our disposal..."

An abridged translation of "`Uddat as-sabirin wa dhakhirat ash-shakirin"

Remaining Steadfast After Ramadân by Sâlih ibn Fawzân al-Fawzân - "Indeed, steadfastness after Ramadân and the rectification of one's statements and actions are the greatest signs that one has gained benefit from the month of Ramadân and striven in obedience. They are tokens of reception and signs of success. "

From Ahâdîth us-Siyâm: Ahkâm wa Adab

The Last of the Ramadân Warriors by Muhammad al-Sharîf - The Ramadân warrior is the one who fasts only when Ramadân comes. He is the one who does Qiyâm-ul-Layl only on the nights of Ramadân. The generosity and feeding of the hungry is a practice for him that ends with the moon of Shawwal.

Allâh ta'ala tells us in the Qur’ân; a verse that we read so many times in the past month:

"O ye who believe! Fasting was prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you so that you may become pious."

Exerting Oneself During the Last Ten Days of Ramadân by Abdullâh ibn Sâlih al-Fawzân - The last ten days of Ramadân have a special virtue over any other (set of days), in which one should increase in obedience and acts of worship, such as prayer, making dhikr (remembrance) and reciting the Qur’ân.

The Approach of Ramadân by Abdullâh ibn Sâlih al-Fawzân - "Indeed Allaah, the Most High, has made the month of Ramadaan as a competition for His creatures, in which they may race with one another to His pleasure, by obeying Him. Thus, one group comes first and so they prosper and another group comes last and so they fail."

Islamic Manners (5): Joining the Ties of Kinship by Abû Rumaysah - From the al-Adâb al-Islâmî (Islamic Manners) series: 'Joining the ties of kinship (ŝilatu-r-rahim) means to behave well with near of kin as the situation demands. Sometimes this is done by giving them charity, or spending on them, and other times it is done by serving them, or visiting them, or greeting them with the salam, and other such matters.'

Warning against Backbitting and Tale-Carrying by Muhammad ibn Sâlih al-'Uthaymîn - O people! Muslims now suffer two rampant diseases, though immunity from them is easy for those who are protected by Allah. These two diseases are backbiting and tale-bearing.

A Return to Excellence - Al-Ibaanah Magazine Editorial Dhul-Qa’dah 1415H / April 1995: It is hoped that this bi-monthly magazine - which is in the hands of the honourable reader - will convey this original state of affairs, which has as its pure and sweet spring, the Qur’ân and the Sunnah, built upon the understanding of the Salafus-Sâlih - the pious predecessors of this Ummah

Why Our Supplications Are Not Answered? by Ibn Rajab - Why are our supplications not answered even though Allah has told us "And your Lord says: 'Call on Me, I will answer your prayer..."?