Visit www.islaminlife.com from now on please

By the Grace of Allah Tala we are moving to our much awaited site: www.islaminlife.com Your Duas are our inspiration. May Allah Tala provide all of us the ability to Serve Deen. May He Provide us to do it in the right way and with Sincerity. May Allah Tala forgive our mistakes and finally Grant us! Ameen.... Please send us your suggestions about the new site at: careislam[at]gmail.com

Dua for Achieving Love of Allah Tala

This Dua is the one described in Hadith. Every Muslim should recite it with Great Enthusiasm to achieve the Love of Allah Tala. Imagine - the Lord of this Universe offering His Love to His servants. What an opportunity for us. O Allah Pour Your Blessing on Hazrat Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam and His blessed Companions Who informed about You to us:

O Allah! Provide me Your Love and Provide me Their Love Whom You Love. Provide me the Deeds which reaches me to (i.e. attains) Your Love. O Allah! Make Your Love to me more Dear than my own self, wealth, family members and cold water. Ameen!

The Three Graves

One pious man describes, Once I saw three graves on a high place. In every grave there were some verses written.

On the first grave it was written: "The person who knows that one day he has to return to Allah Tala- answer for his deeds and would be rewarded or punished accordingly - How can he engage himself in the luxuries of this world?"

On the second grave it was written: "The person who believes that one day death will snatch away all his worldly belongings and all authority and make him a resident of grave - How can such person be absorb in sensual pleasures of this world to such high extent?"

On the third grave it was written: "The person who is well aware that one day it is a must that he has to reach the grave and all his youth, beauty and flesh in the body will disappear, on the reliance of what is he so engrossed in the worldly affairs so lavishly?"

Seeing this the pious man asked a Shaykh about these three graves. The Shaykh informed him that these three are the graves of three brothers. One was a soldier, one a businessman and another was a very pious and noble man. The Shaykh further described:

When the pious and noble man's death drew near, his two brothers brought a huge amount of money and asked him to make Sadaka. The noble brother replied, I do not need your money for Sadaka, however, you make a promise to me. And I hope you would keep the promise. Then he told them, After my death bury me on a high place and write these verses on my grave.
The Shaykh said, the first verses which you read are on the grave of that noble brother. The Shaykh continued, the noble brother also asked his two brothers to regularly visit his grave - at least once a day. After the death of the noble brother, his two brothers continued to do as their brother requested them to. On the third day of visiting the grave of the noble brother, his two brothers heard a very loud metallic noise. The soldier dreamt the noble brother at the very night and asked, what was that heavy sound in your grave dear brother? The noble brother replied, I was then being asked why I hadn't helped one needy, when he was oppressed.

This dream made the soldier very worried. In the morning he called his brother (the business man) and told him that he believes that the verses on their brother's grave are for teaching great lesson. The soldier resigned from his service and started absorbing him in worship of Allah Tala completely.

Then one day death of the soldier drew near. Upon the news of illness of his brother, the business man met him. He asked his ailing brother for some advice. The soldier replied, I do not have any wealth that I can make a will; however, I request you one thing. Bury me beside our brother and write these verses on my grave. The Shaykh continued, you have seen the verses on the second grave - that is the soldier's. Before the death the soldier requested his brother to visit his grave till three days regularly and asked him to make dua. After the death of the soldier, the businessman regularly started visiting the grave and on the third day he started weeping beside his brother's grave. Suddenly he heard a huge sound coming from the grave. Instantly he returned home very frightened. At night the soldier came to meet him in his dreams. The business man asked him, O dear brother have you come to meet us? The soldier replied, Is this the time to meet? I am living in my permanent residence. The business man asked his brother, How did Allah Tala receive you? The soldier replied, Allah Tala has blessed me with great pleasure. Man achieves great blessing through Tawba. The businessman asked him, where is our noble brother? The soldier replied, He is in the place of Pious Imams. The businessman asked, What should I do now? The soldier advised him, Whatever man send in the life hereafter from this world are received by him after death. Therefore, anticipate this life as valuable.

In the morning the business man woke up and made Tawba from all his sins. He then gave away all his wealth and absorbed in worshiping Allah Tala completely. His son then took control of the business he had. After some time his death drew near. His son came for advice. He advised his son to bury him near his two uncles and write some verses. The Shaykh continued, You have seen the verses on the grave and that is the businessman's. In addition, the businessman advised his son to visit his grave the consecutive three days after his death and seek forgiveness. After the death of the businessman, his son did so as advised. On the third day of visit, the son heard a loud noise in his father's grave. At night he dreamt his father. His father advised him, O Son! You are meeting us soon. However, after death it is not possible that you prepare yourself. Don't waste time in this world being caught in the trial and tests. Many were making big plans in the world. They had to die before their plans came into reality. All the repentance after death could not benefit them. (Be careful!) Your outcome may not be the same. Therefore O Son! Don't neglect! Don't neglect any more!

Waking up in the morning the son called all family members and told them, I think my time has ended. He payed all debts and gave away the rest of his wealth away. On the third day he faced the Qibla and reciting the Kalima Shahadat he passed away.

From Nujhatul Bastin

Dua My Friend - It is Dua

Hazrat Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam has made utmost efforts throughout his noble life to show the Light of Hidayat to His Ummah. His Noble Life has been so vividly depicted in the Hadith described by His Noble-Companions the Sahaba-ye-Keram Radiallahu Anhum! We with all our sins must NOT at all be frustrated and get depressed. Let us make Tawba and strive on the path shown by Our Beloved Nabi Sallallahu Alaiyihi wa Sallam. Dua - my friend is One Great Solution to all problems, worries and obstacles of Muslim Life. No specific time, No specific place, No specific situation is required - Just Make Dua! Allah Tala is listening. He is our ONLY LORD to whom we belong. Allah Tala, in Sura Qiyamah States: Meaning: Towards your Lord is the destiny that day (of everyone) This life is nothing but an Opportunity. Now you are here. in this world, after some moments/days/weeks/years (Don't expect decades and centuries....!!!!) I and you will not be in this world my friend! No one will probably discuss me in his meeting and moments. For that time is the preparation. Going back to our discussion: Dua my Friend - is Solution to all difficulties. Seek the Guidance of Allah Tala! Hazrat Thanvi (R) once said, if one cannot make dua, he should seek the ability to make dua. See what Hazrat Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam informed: "One who has been provided the ability of making dua, for him the door of acceptance has also been opened." In another narration, it has been mentioned, "For him the door of Paradise (Jannah) has been opened." In another narration, it has been mentioned, "For him the door of Blessing (Rahmah) has been opened." A Wonderful Dua: "O Allah! It is Your Ability - Sustain me in bliss and into Your Blessing provide me some room and end my life being on Your obedience and in the best of Good Deeds provide me death and Provide me its reward in Paradise" - (Dua collected from 'Munajate Makbool: the book in which Hazrat Thanvi (R) has collected Dua from Quran and Hadith, available in PDF in www.islamibayanaat.com) We must first make dua for ourselves, then for our near and dear ones. And also for the whole Ummah or Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam. How blessed those servants are who at the middle of night stand in front of their Lord and weep like Genuine Sinners. O myself! Don't ever even think that they are similar to you who after sinning the whole day become tired and sleep like a bitch! They indeed are the Friends of Allah Tala who has attained proximity of Allah Tala. The Love of Allah has entered into their noble heart and made them so unconscious of this trivial world that they become totally oblivion. They are indeed the ones who will be Highly Rewarded. O myself! If you had the bit sense about their status! O Allah! Don't deprive us! Who will forgive us (the sinners) if You only shower Bounty on Your closest of Friends. Definitely You shower Bounty upon us as well. However, for our misdeeds, we cannot understand if. Please provide us the understanding and provide us ability to earn Your Love! Ameen.

How will be my end?

Hazrat Shibli (R) used to say, "O the Lord of Unseen! If I knew what is my status to You? And how would You treat me finally? O the One Who Forgives sins and change the heart! How is going to be my end!"

Then he would recite the following words:

"Oh! Only if I knew how my discussion goes on - is it in positive or negative? Is it with hatred or with praise? By the Lord - Who knows all the secret matters! Oh! if I only knew what would be my situation on the Day of Resurrection? Oh if I knew whether I'll die with belief or with kufr (disbelief)? Do you think whether my request would be accepted or not? Or whether my heart will be broadened? Oh! If I only knew whether I'll enter into Hell or Heaven! You people better stop praising me! Because I know my state quite well."

From 'Nujhatul Basatin" of Hazrat Yafeyi Yamini (R)

Saiyedul Istegfar: Meaning in English

In Hadith it is stated, "One who will recite Saiyedul Istegfar (the Istegfar which has been entitled as Saiyed - Leader of Istegfar) with sincerity once at daytime and at night, will enter into Paradise if s/he passes away in that day or night. (Bukhari)

O Allah! You are my Sustainer. Without You there is none to worship. You are the One Who created me. I am your slave. I rely on Your promises with utmost efforts. I seek refuge to You from self degradation. I admit all Your Bounties on me. I confess my sins. Therefore, forgive me! None is there who can forgive sins without You. (Ameen))

Tawheed - Solution of Life: Part II

Imam Gazzali (R) has explained the concept of Tawheed with an example. He told that a man blamed the sword - you have killed me. Sword replied - What had I to do? I was in the hand. Blame the hand. Then the man told the hand (which was holding the sword), you have killed me. Hand exclaimed and said - How can I do so? I had no strength! It was the willingness who controlled me and directed me to fight. The man then accused willingness. Willingness defended by saying, I was instigated and ispired by the Heart. The heart told the man that I am in the control of someone else.

"The Heart of man is between the Two Fingers of Allah Tala (is contolled by Him)"

This is the reality, which is the purpose of Tawheed in terms of good deed. Whan someone achieves this level of Tawheed, neither does he dare to flatter others, nor does he care other people. He doesn't fear anyone except Allah Tala. The greed of wealth cannot influence him. He doesn't even fear death. Sheykh Sadi (R) has explained in this way:

"Under the foot of Mua'h-hid (One who as achieved Tawheed to satisfactory level)

Let go abundance of wealth;

Or let he be crowned with humiliation & disgrace

He will never - in any condition expect from man;

Do never ever forget this piece of teaching of Tawheed"

The one who attains the Makam (level) of Tawheed will not only comprehend, rather with his very naked eyes he will see that if the whole world wants to provide help to me, without Allah Tala's command that is NOT possible. On the other hand, if the whole world intends to harm me, without Allah Tala's wish it is NOT possible. Therefore, why should I be afraid of anyone? Why should I flatter others? Why should I be greedy? Therefore his fear is to none but Allah Tala. He never bestow his head in front of any being or thing, but Allah Tala. He excepts from none, but Allah Tala. He therefore is busy how to develop a strong bond with Allah Tala. And his slogan is:

"Know Allah Tala One, Read Him One, See Him One and Search Him One and only One."

Now the question comes, how will this level be attained(?)

In belief, all Muslims do posses the concept of Tawheed. However, as the sight is on the things, which outwardly express reasons, there is doubt in the belief mixed. Imam Gazzali (R) has provided an example of this suspension. About a dead body everyone knows and believes that it has nothing to do, completely incapable to do anything. People firmly belief that it cannot move its limbs. However, people fear to sleep with the dead body on the same bed. This fear doesn't imply that they don't believe in the death or incapability of the corpse. But an inner suspension fetch worries in them. In this way Muslims who haven't attained the level of Tawheed, admits the incapablity of things. But their hearts don't have the strength to completely and definitely defend the suspensions surrounding regarding 'doing of the matter'. Because eyes view 'things doing'. Heart is not strong enough to make understand - Doer is NOT the thing. If someone can attain this strength that things don't possess power, he will attain the level of Tawheed which is the discussion point.

The strength of Heart can be attained by various deep meditation. When man rests his eyes on the happening of this world, he can veiw how the plans and programs of men shatter. Gradually, the cloud of suspension drives away from the heart. The Aqida (Belief & Concept) of Tawheed takes place in heart and it finally becomes a habit. However, if this deep meditation is accomplished by the guide of a Spiritual Mentor then the later can save the person from all sorts of violation in works and thoughts.

Violation in the concept of Tawheed needs to be explained within two points.

First point is, though the Creator of all good and evil is none, but Allah Tala, and though all the happiness and sorrow both are from Allah Tala, still there is a conduct of approach while referring to these. The smallest of good should be related to Allah Tala, while the smallest of bad should not be related to Allah Tala.

Allah Tala states: "The door of Rahmah (Bounty) which Allah Tala opens for someone, others are incapable of closing it; the thing which He closes, without Him, none is its Opener." Sura Fatir: 2

In this Verse, there is a noticable point. It is, with 'opening' - the word Rahmah has been mentioned. However, with 'closing' - only 'the thing' has been mentioned, without any further explanation. Here in this Verse is a teaching, i.e. it is not the conduct to relate Allah Tala with closing of Rahmah. In addition, there is information that if anything in this universe apparantly seems contrary to Rahmah, it will be for good for all.

Hazrat Ibrahim (AM) has followed the mentioned conduct. He used to relate all the goods with Allah Tala. For instance, he used to say, Allah Tala has provided Hidayat to me. He is the One who provides food and clothing to me. He also says: "When I become ill, he recovers me from illness." Sura Ash-Shuwara: 80

Ibrahim (AM) has clearly related 'being ill' to ownself. But related Allah Tala whicle talking of recovery.

Hazrat Khijir (AM) has followed the same rule. He says, "And Allah Tala wished they reach their youth and retain the treasure." Sura Kahf: 82

He has related the good to Allah Tala.

However, when Hazrat Khijir (AM) made hole under the boat of the orphans, he stated, "I wished to damage the boat." Sura Kahf: 79

He related damage to himself.

For this reason, the Fuqaha has written a Ruling - if someone calls Allah Tala only the Creator of dogs and swines, the individual will become a kafir (nonbeliever).

Second point is, though the Doer of every activity in this universe is solely Allah Tala, still the Shariah hasn't completely ignored the discussion of things and means. Allah Tala has affixed some responsiblities to those. Because, definitely Allah Tala is the Doer and the Doer has set the thing to accomplish a task. For this reason if someone is providing support then it is mandetory that the one getting service and support should express gratitude towards the first. Ulama for this reason advise to preserve and take care of the papers, because papers are means to Knowledge.

To what extent should we keep notice to these means and in which cases there should not be any sort of noticing things, the difference between these need to be observed carefully by the Seeker, who wants to attain Tawheed in terms of deed. Practically a Spiritual Mentor will guide the Seeker along this path.

Tawheed - Solution of Life: Part I

Mufti Shafi Saheb (R) - A Star indeed. Allah Tala has blessed us through his works. This extract is one very valuable piece from 'Dil ki Dunya' a must read book for the Seeker of Right Path.

(Note: Anyone reading this part must not miss Part II for clear understanding of Tawheed. Any question regarding such matter must be clarified from Spiritual Mentor or Ulama)

"Know Allah Tala One, Read Him One, See Him One and Search Him One and only One..."

The inner values of man, which have been prescribed essential, amongst those - Tawheed is a major one. To believe in One Allah Tala and match nothing to Him is the foundation of Iman (belief). In Ilm-e Tasawuf, Tawheed has been elaborated much more deeply. It states that the Tawheed which had been achieved conceptually or at a level of belief must be practiced in good deeds in such manner that it becomes human habit. It means, when the believer views the happening of this world he firmly believes that whatever is happening is by the command of Allah Tala. Without His command not a single molecule can turn. At the level of belief every Muslim knows and accepts it. However, in every situation of life where will and woe comes by turn, this very belief doesn't seem to be arouse in mind always. For this reason, when there is means through which happiness or sorrow enters in life, man seem to relate that means with the happiness or sorrow coming. But reality of Tawheed (which is Tawheed in terms of good deed) is - always wake up in heart the actual cause of happenings (i.e. Only Allah Tala's command is the source of all happenings), as if you are seeing it. A devout says in this regard,

"Through your heart if you see the doing of Allah Tala that is Tawheed, only the bearing of witness through tongue is not sufficient."

When man views that behind every occurrence of this world there is One Allah Tala's Hand, man doesn't care to become friendly or inimical to others. Because his firm belief is happiness or sorrow whatever is coming in my life is from Allah Tala. The thing which can be seen as cause is only the means.

"Animosity of enemies and intimacy of friends all are from Allah Tala
Indeed the hearts are in the Hand of Allah Tala."

In Hadit it is stated, when something occurred which was against will, instead of expressing any sort of complain, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam just used to say, "What Allah Tala desired has happened, what He won't desire will not happen."

Fact is that, to relieve the heart at the moment of sorrow and pain, this is indeed the best treatment ever found!

To be continued Inshallah

If Allah Tala decides to Honor

At the time of Khalifa Harunur Rashid (R) there was a young man who possessed the quality of advising right and forbidding wrong. Once this young man made an adverse comment about the Khalifa. Being informed the Khalifa immediately arrested him and put him in a room where there was no provision of air and light, in view the individual be punished severely. After five days one man informed Khalifa Harunur Rashid (R) that he saw the very young man in a garden quite freely wandering about and that he is no more a captive.

Khalifa Harunur Rashid (R) again ordered to arrest the young man. When he was brought in front of the Khalifa, Khalifa asked him, "Who freed you?" The young man answered, "The one who entered me into the garden." Khalifa asked, "Who entered you into the garden?" The young man answered, "The one who made me captive." Khalifa said, "Your words seem very astonishing to me(?)" Instantly the young man replied, "Which task of Allah Tala is NOT astonishing to you?" Hearing this reply of the young man, Khalifa Harunur Rashid (R) started shedding tears.

Then Khalifa Harunur Rashid (R) ordered his men to take this man and mount him on horseback; give him a round across the city; ahead of his horse - let an announcer announce: "Allah Tala has honored this guy; Khalifa Harunur Rashid desired to dishonor and degrade him, however, the Khalifa has failded to do so. Finally he is bound to honor him." (From 'Nujhatul Basatin')

Unlock your heart's door today

O Allah! Unlock the doors of our hearts by Your Rememberance (Zikr) and provide us ability to enjoy Your complete Bounties and provide us Your Full Blessings (Rahmah) and always keep us amongst Your noble servants!

-From Munajate Makbool of Hazrat Mawlana Ashraf Ali Thanvi (R)
The e-book in English with Arabic (Munajate Makbool) is available in the site: http://islamibayanaat.com/EnglishLiterature.htm Download all the ebooks from this site and READ and BUILD UP A LIFE OF MUSLIM!

Note:
Every Muslim should have this book, and every Muslim should read the Duas in it -
Hazrat Thanvi (R) has gathered Supplications of Quran and Hadith in this valuable book.

The reason for my solitude

Taken from Nujhatul Basatin - a Famous Book consisting of Stories of the Freinds of Allah Tala (very beneficial to quench the thirst of the Seekers), written by Hazrat Yafeyee Yameni (R)

One individual came to Hazrat Hasan Basri (R) and informed, "O Abu Sayeed! (Hazrat was called in this name) There is a person in our area, who always remain in solitude. We could not know the reason for his solitude."

Later - one day, Hazrat Hasan Basri (R) went to the place and asked the man (living in solitude), "I think you like solitude and dislike the company of people; however, what is the reason?" The man replied, "I am always busy with my work, for this reason I cannot meet people."

Listening to him, Hazrat Hasan Basri (R) said, "In that place lives a man named Hasan Basri - at least you can sometimes go there and meet Hasan." The man replied, "The reason, for which I cannot meet general people, is the same for which I cannot meet Hasan Basri." Hazrat Hasan Basri (R) asked him, "What is the work in which you are engaged in?" He answered, "When I open my eyes I see the unlimited bounties of Allah Tala over me, on the other hand, I see my large amount of sins. Then I initate Gratitude towards Allah Tala and seek His forgiveness - engaging in Istegfar. Therefore, I get no time for any other job."

Listening to the man Hazrat Hasan replied, "O Abdullah (the slave of Allah)! You are wiser than Hasan; be engaged in what you are."

Note: This state, as of the man in the story, is not permitted for all - i.e. staying a solitude life. Though in many situations solitude is praiseworthy, just as stated in the story. Asking your Spiritual Mentor or an Alim regarding when to do what is important. My Allah Tala guide us!

Firm Intention, Utmost Efforts & Steadfastness

From the lecture of our Beloved Khatib Saheb, Hz Ubaiydul Haq (R), who passed away in the Ramadan of 1428, who was the Light Bearer and Leader of Ulama in Bangladesh, a very Humble Servant of Allah Tala, a Great inspiration for us yet.....;
He studied the complete Bukhari under Hz Hussain Ahmad Madani R and was the classmate of Hz As'ad Madani R in Deoband. Khatib Saheb taught Mufti Taqi Usmani in his childhood! May Allah Tala Bless Him! May Allah Tala Bless us through achieving his lessons and turn those into reality....

(From a lecture broadcasted in Radio Pakistan in 1969-70)

Allah Tala states in the Quran: "Do you think that you have been created just with no objective and you will not return to me? Allah Tala is the Master; free off such words and most High"
By creation human beings inherits desire and attraction to some objectives. Man spend the life to achieve his objectives. However, whatever might be his desire - may it be very little or huge, only by desiring he cannot attain it. Undergoing hardship is necessary to achieve it. And to make the efforts a success firm intention is a prerequisite. 

We need to have Az'm, which means to make firm intention. Isteqlal is another thing needed, which means to be firm in the intention while accomplishing the task; firmness should be such that whatever difficulties and hinderance may impede, be steadfast. Az'm is related to intention and Isteqlal with Deed (Amal). However these two cannot be separted - complementary to each other. Isteqlal is the inevitable consequence of genuine Az'm. Because steadfastness in Deed or Amal is found only when there is firm desire of accomplishment. 

How great and noble desire may man posseses, it doesn't come true overnight. It is patience and perserverance through which man can attain objective, just like the diligent farmer, who undergoes hardship and finally wait for harvest.

Whatever may be the desire, achieve a worldy matter or for the salvation in the life hereafter - all achievement needs a lot of hardship and efforts to be made. Don't lose hope when you have made a good intention and intiated work; carry on continuously.

Quran has used the words 'patience' and 'utmost effort' to indicate 'firm intention and continuous hardship'. Quran has used another word - Isteqamat, which is the jist of Az'm and Isteqlal. To be steadfast on the path of truth, patience and utmost effort is essential. Allah Tala states, "O Prophet! Invite towards Deen (Islam) and be steadfast - just as you have been ordered and do not follow their will". (Sura Shura: 15)

Allah Tala then has given glad tidings for those who remain steadfast on the path of their Prophet and announces - they (the followers) will (surely) come out successfull and have no fear. (see Hameem Shazda: 30)

While accomplishing good deeds there is another name for A'zm and Isteqlal, that is: Mudaowamat, which means - continue the good deed till death. Not that sometimes we will do and sometimes we will not. Rather such steadfastness will come that we will always, i.e. regularly doing it - whatever situation may be encountered. In Hadith it is stated, "Such deed, though very little is liked by Allah Tala that is accomplished regularly".

Obstacle will come into the roads of righteous. Those have to be handled with patience.

Allah Tala has inspired the Believers who stive on the right path and with firm intention keep steadfast: "O Believers! Seek support through Patience and Salat. Certainly Allah Tala is with the patient."

We pray humbly to Allah Tala: "Rabbana Afrig 'Alaiyna Sabra-oo Wa Sabbit Aqdamana Wansurna 'Alal Qa-oomal Kafireen" - Ameen!

The First Step toward Self Rectification

Even if hundred times you break off Tawba - still make a Comeback!

If an individual wants that his inward remains pure, i.e. free from all spiritual diseases; if he wishes that consequently he may achieve the Satisfaction of Allah Tala, then the first step for him is Tawba. For this reason today I discuss about Tawba.

Generally people think that Tawba is to utter the words: Astagfirullaha Rabbi min kulli.....However, this is a very big mistake. The real meaning of Tawba is: Repent for past sins and be ashamed; compensate as much as possible and to make firm intention not to commit the sin again in future.

Imam Gazzali (R) has explained the matter very effectively. He said that, in this world good and evil are mixed. As there are factors which inspire toward Taqwa, there are also things which attract toward sins. There are things which attract you toward good deeds and there are opposite things which attract toward wrongdoings. Your task is to defeat the desire of committing sin and make the enthusiasm of accomplishing good deed the winner. He adds, take for example the gold in which there is some impurity - some impure materials are mixed in the some gold. The way to make such gold pure is to burn it in fire. If such impure gold is burnt in fire, only then it is freed from its baser metal. This is the only way to purify the impure gold. Just in similar way, to free man from sins - burn is a requirement. The burn which can free human from unwanted things (sins) is of two kinds: One is the fire of Jahannam. Because, if a believer is put in Hell-fire, it is to purify him - not only for punishing. Rather the main reason behind burning him there is to take him to Jannah. On the other hand, the non-believers are taken into the Jahannam forever for punishment. The other burn, which wipes out sins and purify is the burn i.e. the repentance and remorse. This is such a burning mean, which in this very world - burns the adulterated materials and purify a human.
Imaam Gazzali (R) said, to purify oneself, one has to burn in either of the two (stated above). Now it is up to him - through which mean does he wants himself to purify. If one feels that it is going to be very hard to be purified through Hell-fire, he may in this world burn his heart in the fire of Repentance. This repentance is Tawba. Just as it is in the Hadith: "Being regretful is Tawba."

From 'Dil ki Dunya' - Mufti Shafi Saheb R

Best treatment for poverty and distress

Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (Radi) reports, Rasulullah Sallahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam said, One who will abundantly perform Istegfar (seek forgiveness to Allah Tala) will be freed from all worries, will be provided magnanimity in all constraints and will be provided Rizk beyond ones comprehension.

- From 'Musibat ke B'ad Rahat' by Mufti Shafi Saheb (Rah)

Easy Prescription on Changing Life

Extracted from a Bayan  of  Hazrat Manzur Numani (R): (delivered in 1374 Hijri, at Ahmadabad)

I would like to tell you a word in short, that is: make two decisions regarding your life. First is, start making efforts on shaping your life right – rectify yourself. Secondly, make efforts to help change others’ lives as much as possible. To initiate efforts to develop life (in terms of Iman & Amal) is not at all hard, rather very easy. Whatever wrongdoings had been committed against the command of Allah Tala and His Rasul Sallallhu Alaiyhi wa Sallam, should be compensated through Tawba (sincere repentance). Make firm intention of obeying Allah Tala’s orders. If you again make mistake, i.e. if again you commit sin – keep on making Tawba. Through Tawba you will always be able to establish the broken relationship between you and Allah Tala.

Besides making Tawba, make dua. There are men & women who cannot make Tawba for lack of courage. They think that there are so and so sins which we cannot refrain from right now. These people should at least pray to Allah Tala, “O Lord! Cleanse us and provide us the courage that we can refrain from these sins forever.” Besides dua, make efforts to refrain from the sins too. By the Rahmah of Allah Tala it is hopeful that to decide on refraining from the sins will become very easy.

To be steadfast on Tawba you may keep yourself steadfast on some deeds. Recite Kalima Taiyiba “La Ilaha Illallahu Muhammadur Rasulullah” regularly with sincerity. This would always refresh Iman – inner belief. Every day in the morning and afternoon read it 100 times, if not – at least ten times – with complete attention.

Surely you all say your prayers. Say prayers (Salat/Namaz) regularly – attentively. The least level of saying prayers is: the love and fear of Allah Tala is present in your heart and you contemplate on Allah Tala is seeing you (definitely He is!)

Make a habit of regular Zikr. Rasulullah Sallallhu Alaiyhi wa Sallam taught the following words: “Subhanallah walhamdulillah wa laa-ilaha illallahu wallahu akbar”. Many glad tidings have been reported for doing this Zikr. Read this 100 times a day. If anyone among you wants to do much more Zikr, you make contact a Sahebe-Zikr (A Spiritual Guide for Zikr), who can provide you more. In rectification of life, Zikr plays a vital role. The condition is that we do it attentively, that is: ruminate sincerely what we utter.

The final thing you must do is, everyday make a little time to engulf yourself in meditation on death. Remove your thoughts from all and think over on point –one day I have to leave this world, just the way life terminates for all. My soul will depart – it will be taken away. Then the body will be showered and after Janaza prayers it will be buried under the soil. Then on the Judgment Day I have to stand in front of Allah Tala with my Book of Deed. Alas! What will happen? – Keep on think over these incidents, as if all are in front of your very eyes. Think that it is only through the Blessing of Allah Tala, I would be able to get free. With firmly believing so you must repent sincerely – make Tawba and pray for Allah Tala’s shelter and support.

These four points which I mentioned are not complete Deen. Don’t think that through this you can be completely pious. Rather, if you accomplish these deeds continuously the bondage between you and Deen will become stronger day by day. By the Grace of Allah Tala your life will develop high.

Let all miss you; let not you miss the world

You may miss the train, bus or plane. You may miss parties or a HOT job. You may miss your dear ones and many/much more favorite things when you stay far away from them. You may miss so many things for which you craved for and make sounds like: Ah! Uh! Aha! You often miss phone calls… One day: will you have to miss the world? (!) Will you miss your model? Will you miss your passions? What actually will you miss when YOU will be missing? One Saint was asked, “O Hazrat! Why do we fear death so much? Why do we not want to abandon this world?” The reply from him was, “Very simple to understand! Would someone like to travel toward a place where he hasn’t built a house? – definitely not. You fear death because you haven’t built a house in the life hereafter. You know it well too. Because your efforts and energy has been spent to harvest this wordly life’s residence. Therefore, your soul attracts the world – where you have your home (certainly very temporary one). There is no preparation of living in the life hereafter (whereas, one has to live there forever). And death is the incident which will make you homeless!” Oh Dear! Don’t miss Allah Tala’s Love Don’t miss the intercession of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam Don’t miss your prayers Remember the wise poet’s words: When I came into this world I was in tears – crying; all around me had smile faces. When I would die, may all around me be in tears! And may I be smiling; may my face be in glazes… My request is dear brother, NOT ONLY emotions for Islam. Be a Muslim. Build up a life of our Model Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam. This needs emotion, motion & patience. The closeness of Lovers of Allah Tala is the easiest of paths. Just test once! Revive the Sunnah & refrain from sins – see how this worldly life becomes heaven for you! By Allah…This world is our Lord’s. He even would never had given opportunity to a disbeliever (to His enenmy) drink a sip of water from this world, if He valued this world equivalent to a mosquito wing! Ah.. only if we (the believers) could realize! Give up temporary feelings and instigate eternal feelings. Discover what you actually should be missing!

Dua for Halal Rizk, Knowledge of Deen & Good Deeds

"O Allah! Provide me Halal Rizk and beneficial 'Ilm (Knowledge of Deen that is useful in life) and Good Deeds which are accepted (by You)!"

Hazrat Ali (Radiallahu anhu)'s Sayings

1. How helpless man is! He doesn't know when death would come. He doesn't know what is in his fate. Even a tiny mosquito is flying after him to bite.

2. Engage yourself in good deeds. If you keep yourself away from good deeds, the field will never be vacant. Allah Tala definitely will make the work done by someone. And in your fate there will remain only distess. (May Allah Tala save me and you!- Ameen)

3. Allah Tala has provided man with knowledge only so that he may pass the arduous test of the Day of Judgment.

4. The level of attaining Pure Character is: Taqwa - Fear of Allah Tala.

5. The heart fetches all the things which eyes see. If eyes do not take lesson from an incident that

provides some teaching, those eyes are ill.

6. Do not judge a person only by one quality; do consider his other characteristics.

7. Social contact is helpful at the time of difficulties.

8. Barakah (blessing) is never closed for a grateful servant. The door of Tawba is never closed for one who always seek forgiveness.

9. Whatever plan may you make regarding yourself, finally that is certainly to take place what Allah Tala wishes (decides for you). Therefore, while accomplishing every task, it is wise to rely on Allah Tala.

10. To forgive is the best revenge.

11. The more a heart becomes greedy, the farther it is from Allah Tala’s faith and reliance.

12. One who cannot guard oneself, he cannot be safe even if he is guarded by others.

13. Until you talk to someone don’t underestimate him.

14. The one who can control anger can accomplish most good deeds.

15. If it is difficult for someone to commit sin, it can be concluded that he is under the special blessing of Allah Tala.

Abu Bakr (Radiallahu anhu)'s Sayings

1. Ibadat is like a profession. Its industry/shop is: Solitude; its capital is Taqwa (refrain from sins in Fear of Allah Tala); its profit is Jannah.

2. After committing sin, Tawba is Wajib (mandatory) . However, refraining from sins is a greater Wajib.

3. Surprising is the ups and downs of time. More surprising is - not taking lesson from the ups and downs taking place in front of our own eyes!

4. Every good deed has its limit. However, Sabr (patience) is such a good deed that is limitless.

5. One who devotes himself in the path of Allah Tala, Allah Tala is enough for him.

6. Enough is the Ilm (Knowledge) attained by a Mu'min (believer) that creates Fear of Allah Tala in mind.

Seek Allah Tala's Assistance

O Allah! I seek your Fear to such extent that I can refrain from Your disobedience; as a result, I may obey you to such an extent that You become pleased with me; and so that I may purely regret (make Tawba) in Your Fear and being shameful toward You I abide by Your Orders and also serve Your Deen in good intention and rely on You on all matter and always keep good faith on You!

From: Munajate Makbool - Hazrat Thanvi (R)