The Essence of Fasting and Its Purpose
Why was Ramadan out of all the other months characterized with repentance?
The month of Ramadan is a true chance for every believer loving Allah and wanting to prove to himself and to his Lord that he loves Him. Every believer knows that Allah wants him to abandon the sins and particularly the great sins. But the human remains weak facing his desires and the call of Satan to him and the call of his peers and his society. Allah gives every believer an extremely precious and great chance during Ramadan. He cuffs the devils, all devils, the ones around you, around your friends and your community, He weakens their effect on you and your friends and surroundings and he weakens your lust and desires with fasting. The reasons behind sin almost fade away and all you have to do is willing to repent and leave the sin which comes from:
1. Your Self and your lust
2. Your devil’s whisperings
3. Your friends and your society encouraging you to commit sins.
All of the above are weakened during the month of Ramadan and repentance is only stopped by one’s own carelessness. Therefore, review the list of Great Sins, and identify your own sins and repent and stop them throughout the month of Ramadan. You will find yourself capable of doing so with the Will of Allah, whereas all of it was extremely challenging before Ramadan.
Source: Kalima Taiba
Abu Huraira (RA) said that the prophet PBUH said: "Indeed, Satan flows through the son of Adam like blood. So narrow his pathways with hunger." (Albukhari)
Major sins, known as "kabair" in Arabic, have a profound impact on an individual's relationship with Allah. They create barriers between a person and their Lord, leading to spiritual disconnection and a sense of distance from divine mercy and guidance. Engaging in major sins can result in feelings of guilt and remorse, and can weaken one's faith, making it harder to perform good deeds and maintain a strong connection with Allah.
Common Major Sins:
Shirk: Associating partners with Allah (idolatry).
Murder: Taking an innocent life unjustly.
Adultery and Fornication: Engaging in sexual relations outside of marriage.
Theft: Stealing or taking what does not belong to you.
False Witness: Lying or bearing false testimony.
Backbiting and Slander: Speaking ill of someone behind their back or spreading falsehoods.
Consuming Alcohol and Intoxicants: Using substances that impair judgment.
Practicing Sorcery or Witchcraft: Engaging in magic or occult practices.
Disobedience to Parents: Not showing respect or obedience to one’s parents.
Neglecting Prayer: Failing to perform the obligatory prayers consistently.
To avoid major sins, one must first increase awareness by educating oneself about these sins and their consequences, as Allah says in the Quran: "And those who do not invoke with Allah another deity or kill the soul which Allah has forbidden, and do not commit unlawful sexual intercourse..." (Quran 25:68). Seeking forgiveness is crucial; regularly repenting and asking Allah for pardon is emphasized in the hadith: "All the children of Adam are sinners, and the best of sinners are those who repent" (Sunan Ibn Majah). Strengthening faith through acts of worship—such as prayer, reading the Quran, and attending religious gatherings—reinforces one’s commitment to righteousness. Surrounding oneself with good company is vital, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "A person is upon the religion of his close friend, so let one of you look at whom he takes as a close friend" (Sunan Abi Dawood). Practicing self-control and being mindful of actions and thoughts, especially in tempting situations, can help prevent slipping into sin. Making du’a (supplication) for guidance and strength is essential, as Allah promises in the Quran: "And your Lord says, 'Call upon Me; I will respond to you'" (Quran 40:60). Finally, reflecting on the spiritual and worldly consequences of major sins can serve as a powerful deterrent, reminding us of the significance of maintaining a pure heart and a strong connection with Allah.
Nutritious Recipe
from my kitchen with love
Mini Syrian Kufta (Mdalaleh) 🍔
Enjoy this delightful Syrian kufta, also known as Mdalaleh, which translates to "luxury meat," and relish the rich flavors of this dish during suhur or iftar! 🌙✨
These mini kufta can also be enjoyed wrapped in pita bread for an extra flavorful experience.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef 80% lean 🥩
1 medium onion, finely chopped 🧅
1 egg 🥚
1/4 cup bread crumbs 🥖
Salt, to taste 🧂
Pepper, to taste 🌶️
Allspice, to taste 🌿
Canola oil, for frying 🛢️
Fresh lemon, for serving 🍋
Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, egg, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and allspice. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2️⃣ Form Patties: Shape the mixture into small patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
3️⃣ Heat Oil: In a deep skillet, heat about 1-2 inches of canola oil over medium heat for frying.
4️⃣ Fry the Patties: Carefully add a few patties to the hot oil. Fry for a few minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5️⃣ Serve: Remove the patties from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. Serve them hot alongside homemade French fries, cut into rounds, for a delightful meal. 🍟
6️⃣ Add a Zesty Touch: A squeeze of fresh lemon on top adds a delicious zing! 🍋
From One Seed to Seven Hundred: The Power of Giving
A golden rule for both sadaqah (voluntary charity) and zakat (obligatory almsgiving) is to give with a sincere heart and intention, seeking the pleasure of Allah. The value of charity is not measured solely by the amount given, but by the intention and circumstances of the giver.
Key Principles:
Intention (Niyyah): Always clarify your intention to give for the sake of Allah, ensuring that your heart is aligned with the purpose of charity. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will be rewarded according to their intention” (Sahih Bukhari).
Value of Giving: A small contribution from someone in need can be more beloved to Allah than a large donation from a wealthy individual. This is because the poor often give from their limited means, demonstrating greater sacrifice and reliance on Allah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The most beloved deeds to Allah are those that are consistent, even if they are small” (Sahih Bukhari).
Giving with Kindness: Whether it’s sadaqah or zakat, it should be given compassionately, ensuring that the recipient feels respected and dignified. Allah says in the Quran: “And speak to people good [words]” (Quran 2:83).
Support Those in Need: Prioritize giving to those who are most in need within your community. The Quran emphasizes this by stating, “The charity is only for the poor and the needy and those employed to collect [it] and for bringing hearts together and for freeing captives and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the traveler” (Quran 9:60).
The Upper Hand: The upper hand (the giving hand) is better and more beloved to Allah than the lower hand (the receiving hand). The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The upper hand is better than the lower hand, and the best of the two is the one that gives” (Sahih Bukhari).
By adhering to these principles, one can ensure that their acts of sadaqah and zakat are meaningful and impactful, both for the giver and the recipient, while fulfilling the true essence of charity in Islam.
Join Mozaic in supporting a single mother in debt this Ramadan, helping to lift the burden off their shoulders. Together, we can bring hope and light to their sad and dimmed days, offering them the assistance they need to thrive. Let’s make a difference in their lives and show them they are not alone. https://mozaic.kindful.com/?campaign=1352818
Du'a of the Day
دعاء ثبات القلب على الدين
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ الثَّبَاتَ فِي الْأَمْرِ، وَالْعَزِيمَةَ عَلَى الرُّشْدِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ مُوجِبَاتِ رَحْمَتِكَ، وَعَزَائِمَ مَغْفِرَتِكَ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ شُكْرَ نِعْمَتِكَ، وَحُسْنَ عِبَادَتِكَ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ قَلْبًَا سَلِيمًَا، وَلِسَانًَا صَادِقًَا، وَأَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ خَيْرِ مَا تَعْلَمُ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا تَعْلَمُ، وَأَسْتَغْفِرُكَ لِمَا تَعْلَمُ، إِنَّكَ أنْتَ عَلاَّمُ الْغُيُوبِ .
اللهمّ أنت الملك لا إله إلّا أنت ربّي، وأنا عبدك لمت نفسي، واعترفت بذنبي، فاغفر لي ذنوبي جميعًا، إنّه لا يغفر الذنوب إلّا أنت، واهدني لحسن الأخلاق لا يهدي لأحسنها إلّا أنت، واصرف عنّي سيّئها لا يصرف عنّي سيّئها إلّا أنت، لبّيك وسعديك، والخير كلّه بيديك، والشرّ ليس إليك، تباركت وتعاليت، أستغفرك وأتوب إليك. اللهمّ إنّي أستغفرك لكلّ ذنب خطوت إليه برجلي، ومددت إليه يدي أو تأمّلته ببصري، وأصغيت إليه بأذني، أو نطق به لساني، أو أتلفت فيه ما رزقتني ثمّ استرزقتك على عصياني فرزقتني، ثمّ استعنت برزقك على عصيانك فسترته عليّ، وسألتك الزّيادة فلم تحرمني ولا تزال عائدا عليّ بحلمك وإحسانك يا أكرم الأكرمين.
اللهمّ إنّي أسألك بأنّي أشهد بأنك أنت الله لا إله إلّا أنت الواحد الأحد، الفرد الصّمد، الّذي لم يلد ولم يولد، ولم يكن له كفوًا أحد، اللهمّ عاملنا بما أنت أهله ولا تعاملنا بما نحن أهله فأنت أهل التّقوى وأهل المغفرة، سبحان الّذي لا يضرّ مع اسمه شيء في الأرض ولا في السّماء وهو السميع العليم.
اللهمّ إنّي أسألك عيش السّعداء، ونزل الشّهداء، ومرافقة الأنبياء، والنّصر على الأعداء، يا سميع الدّعاء، يا ذا قولٍ وعطاء، وجّهت وجهي للّذي فطر السموات والأرض حنيفًا، وما أنا من المشركين، إن صلاتي ونسكي ومحياي ومماتي لله ربّ العالمين، لا شريك له وبذلك أمرت وأنا من المسلمين.
اللهمّ إنّي أستغفرك من كلّ سيّئة ارتكبتها في بياض النّهار وسواد الليل، في ملأ وخلاء وسرٍّ وعلانية وأنت ناظر إليّ، اللهمّ إنّي أستغفرك من كلّ فريضةٍ أوجبتها عليّ في آناء الليل والنّهار تركتها خطأً أو عمدًا أو نسيانًا أو جهلًا، وأستغفرك من كلّ سنّةٍ من سنن سيّد المرسلين وخاتم النبيين سيّدنا محمّد صلّى الله عليه وسلّم تركتها غفلةً أو سهوًا أو نسيانًا أو تهاونًا وجهلًا أو قلّة مبالاة بها، أستغفر الله وأتوب إلى الله ممّا يكره الله قولًا وفعلًا وباطنًا وظاهرًا،
اللهمّ صلّ وسلّم على سيّدنا محمّد وعلى آله وصحبه الطيّبين الطّاهرين. اللهمّ إنّي أعوذ بك من الكفر والفقر، وأعوذ بك من عذاب القبر، اللهمّ إنّي أعوذ بك من الجبن، وأعوذ بك من أن أردّ إلى أرذل العمر، وأعوذ بك من فتنة الدّنيا، وأعوذ بك من عذاب القبر، لا إله إلّا الله وحده لا شريك له، له الملك وله الحمد، وهو على كلّ شيءٍ قدير، اللهمّ لا مانع لما أعطيت، ولا معطي لما منعت، ولا ينفع ذا الجدّ منك الجد.
اللهمّ أنت ربّي لا إله إلّا أنت، خلقتني وأنا عبدك وأنا على عهدك ووعدك ما استطعت، أعوذ بك من شرّ ما صنعت، أبوء لك بنعمتك عليّ، وأبوء بذنبي فاغفر لي فإنّه لا يغفر الذنوب إلّا أنت.
اللهــــم ..ارحمنا إذا بلغت التراقي ،و قيل من راق ، و ظن أنه الفراق ، و التفت الساق بالساق ،إلى ربك يومئذٍ المساق و تأكدت فجيعة الفراق للأهل و الرفاق ، و قد حمَّ القضاء ، فليس من واق
اللهــــم ..ارحمنا إذا حمِّلنا على الأعناق ، و كان إليك يومئذٍ المساق ، وداعًا أبديًا للدور و الأسواق والأقلام و الأوراق إلى من تذل له الجباه و الأعناق
اللهــــم ..ارحمنا إذا ورينا التراب ، و غلقت من القبور الأبواب ، و انفضَّ الأهل و الأحباب ، فإذا الوحشة ، و الوحدة ، و هول الحساب.
Supplication for Steadfastness of the Heart on Religion
O Allah, I ask You for steadfastness in the matter, determination upon righteousness, and I ask You for the causes of Your mercy, the resolutions of Your forgiveness, and I ask You for gratitude for Your blessings, and excellence in worshiping You. I ask You for a sound heart and a truthful tongue. I ask You for the best of what You know and seek refuge in You from the evil of what You know. I seek Your forgiveness for what You know; indeed, You are the All-Knower of the unseen.
O Allah, You are the King; there is no deity except You, my Lord. I am Your servant; I have wronged myself, and I acknowledge my sins. Forgive all my sins, for no one forgives sins except You. Guide me to good morals, for none guides to the best of them except You. Turn away from me the bad ones, for none can turn them away except You. Here I am at Your service, and all good is in Your hands, and evil is not attributed to You. Blessed and Exalted are You. I seek Your forgiveness and turn to You in repentance. O Allah, I seek Your forgiveness for every sin I have committed with my feet, reached out to with my hands, contemplated with my eyes, listened to with my ears, spoken with my tongue, or wasted from what You have provided me, and then I sought sustenance from You in my disobedience, and You provided for me. Then I sought help from Your provision in disobeying You, and You covered me. I asked You for increase, and You did not deprive me, and I continue to receive from You with Your forbearance and kindness, O Most Generous of the generous.
O Allah, I ask You to bear witness that You are Allah; there is no deity except You, the One, the Unique, the Eternal Refuge, who neither begets nor is born, and there is none comparable to Him. O Allah, deal with us according to what You are worthy of, and do not deal with us according to what we are worthy of, for You are the Lord of righteousness and forgiveness. Glorified is He, who nothing in the heavens or on the earth can harm with His name; He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.
O Allah, I ask You for the life of the happy, the abode of the martyrs, the companionship of the prophets, and victory over the enemies. O Responsive to supplication, O You of great speech and giving, I have directed my face to the One who created the heavens and the earth, inclining towards Him, and I am not of the polytheists. Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living, and my dying are for Allah, the Lord of all worlds. He has no partner, and with this, I have been commanded, and I am of the Muslims.
O Allah, I seek Your forgiveness for every sin I have committed in the brightness of the day and the darkness of the night, in public and in private, and You are watching over me. O Allah, I seek Your forgiveness for every obligation You have imposed upon me during the night and day that I have left behind, whether by mistake, intent, forgetfulness, or ignorance. I seek Your forgiveness for every sunnah of the Master of the Messengers and the Seal of the Prophets, our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), that I have abandoned, whether out of negligence, oversight, forgetfulness, carelessness, ignorance, or a lack of concern. I ask Allah for forgiveness and turn to Allah from what Allah dislikes, in word, deed, and both inwardly and outwardly.
O Allah, send blessings and peace upon our Master Muhammad and his pure, good family and companions. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from disbelief and poverty, and I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the grave. O Allah, I seek refuge in You from cowardice, and I seek refuge in You from being returned to the worst of old age. I seek refuge in You from the trials of this world, and I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the grave. There is no deity but Allah alone; He has no partner. To Him belongs the kingdom and praise, and He is capable of all things. O Allah, there is no one to prevent what You have given, and no one to give what You have prevented, and the efforts of the diligent will not benefit against You.
O Allah, You are my Lord; there is no deity except You. You created me, and I am Your servant; I am on Your covenant and promise as much as I can. I seek refuge in You from the evil of what I have done. I acknowledge Your blessings upon me, and I acknowledge my sins. Forgive me, for no one forgives sins except You.
O Allah, have mercy on us when we reach the throat, and it is said, "Who will heal?" and one believes it is the separation. When the legs are intertwined, to Your Lord will be the gathering. The tragedy of separation is assured for family and companions, and the decree has been sealed. There is no one to save us.
O Allah, have mercy on us when we are carried on shoulders, and to You is the gathering that day. A permanent farewell to houses, markets, pens, and papers, to the One to whom the foreheads and necks humble.
O Allah, have mercy on us when we are buried in the earth, and the doors of the graves are closed, and family and loved ones disperse. When we are faced with loneliness, solitude, and the horrors of reckoning.
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