Monday 4 February 2013

Increase your Love

 Photo: Increase your Love

Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “By Him in whose hand is my soul, none of you will enter Paradise until you believe (have eeman), and none of you will believe until you love each other. Shall I not tell you of something which if you do, will create love among you? Increase the custom of greeting each other with ‘as-Salamu alaykum.’” [Sahih Muslim]

Let us increase our love for each other with this simple formula. Loving our brothers and sisters, will help us gain eeman/belief and belief is the key to Paradise. Additional recommended etiquettes of greeting are that, "The younger person should greet the older one, and the walking person should greet the sitting one, and the small number of persons should greet the large number of persons." [Sahih Bukhari]
Increase your Love

Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “By Him in whose hand is my soul, none of you will enter Paradise until you believe (have eeman), and none of you will believe until you love each other. Shall I not tell you of something which if you do, will create love among you? Increase the custom of greeting each other with ‘as-Salamu alaykum.’” [Sahih Muslim]

Let us increase our love for each other with this simple formula. Loving our brothers and sisters, will help us gain eeman/belief and belief is the key to Paradise. Additional recommended etiquettes of greeting are that, "The younger person should greet the older one, and the walking person should greet the sitting one, and the small number of persons should greet the large number of persons." [Sahih Bukhari]

How Mountains Strengthen The Earth's Crust


 Photo: How Mountains Strengthen The Earth's Crust

The Earth's crust, the surface on which we daily walk and build our houses safely, in fact moves on a layer called the mantle which is denser than the crust. If there was not a system in place to keep this motion under control, continual shocks and quakes would occur on the Earth and the world would be a truly unlivable place. And yet, the mountains and their extensions under the ground greatly decrease underground movements, and hence such shocks.

The Earth's mountains have come about as a result of movements and clashes of huge plates which make up the planet's crust. When two of these plates collide, one usually slides under the other. The plate on top is pushed up and so forms mountains. At the same time, the plate at the bottom proceeds under the ground and forms a deep protrusion. This means that mountains have deep downward protrusions that are as large as those visible on the surface. In other words, mountains are firmly rooted in the Earth's layer called the mantle.

Therefore, mountains effectively clench the Earth's plates by stretching above and below the ground at the conjunctions of these plates. In this way, mountains prevent the crust of the Earth from sliding on the magma layer or between its own layers. In short, we may compare mountains to nails firmly holding pieces of wood together. This characteristic of the mountains, through counteracting the unstable nature of the Earth's crust, prevents shocks to a significant degree.

These magnificent-looking mountains also have other roles to play in maintaining certain balances on the Earth, especially in dispersing heat.

The temperature difference between the equator and the Earth's poles is about 212 F0. If such a difference arose on the surface level, storms at blinding speeds reaching 621 miles per hour would devastate the Earth. However the uneven surface of the Earth blocks strong air currents that such heat differences could cause. These mountain ranges begin with the Himalayas in China, continue with the Taurus mountain range in southern Turkey, and then again up into the Alps of Europe. The mountain ranges of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans also figure into this equation.

Like all other details on the Earth, what is manifested in the mountains is part of the endless art of God. God has created the world where we live in a perfect way. Seeing these magnificent examples, what man must acknowledge is that the most important fact of his life is his duty to serve God and to work for this and this alone. Because man is in need of countless blessings, whereas God is Rich Beyond Need.

How Mountains Strengthen The Earth's Crust

The Earth's crust, the surface on which we daily walk and build our houses safely, in fact moves on a layer called the mantle which is denser than the crust. If there was not a system in place to keep this motion under control, continual shocks and quakes would occur on the Earth and the world would be a truly unlivable place. And yet, the mountains and their extensions under the ground greatly decrease underground movements, and hence such shocks.

Insignificant Good Deed



Insignificant Good Deed

Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: "Save yourselves from the fire of Hell even if it be by giving away a bit of a date, or by uttering a good word." [Sahih Bukhari]

Innocent Till Proven Guilty

 Photo: Innocent Till Proven Guilty

Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Ward off hudood as much as you can. If you find any way out for a Muslim then set him free. If the Imam makes a mistake in granting forgiveness it is better for him than that he should make a mistake in imposing punishment.” [Tirmidhi, Ahmed]

The purpose of exemplary punishment is that it should be an effective deterrent. Having millions of people in jails is not the sign of a good judicial system or a healthy, moral society. In the 1300 years of the Khilafah only a couple of hundred hands were cut off for theft! The low number of thefts this signifies is the sign of a healthy society. Regarding the implementation of hudood, however, many conditions must be met, e.g. theft does not count in a famine. In addition, where evidence is not compelling the Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) laid down the following principle: To free someone criminal mistakenly is better than to punish someone innocent mistakenly.
Innocent Till Proven Guilty

Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Ward off hudood as much as you can. If you find any way out for a Muslim then set him free. If the Imam makes a mistake in granting forgiveness it is better for him than that he should make a mistake in imposing punishment.” [Tirmidhi, Ahmed]

Magnificence Of The Luminous Creatures

Photo: Magnificence Of The Luminous Creatures

One of the best-known luminous creatures is the firefly. Scientists have spent years of research trying to produce a light as efficient as the light produced by fireflies. Fireflies achieve maximum efficiency and lose almost no energy.

In fact, it is quite amazing that a creature is able to produce light yet, at the same time, is not affected by the heat of this light. Because, as we know, during light production made by today's technology, heat certainly is created and this heat is emitted outside as thermal energy. Therefore, for this reason, creatures which produce light should also suffer harm due to exposure to high heat. However, the creatures producing light are not affected by the heat they produce, because it is weak.

They produce a kind of light called "cold light" and their body structures are designed accordingly.

Fireflies are actually a type of beetle which produces yellowish-green lights by means of chemical reactions inside their bodies. Fireflies, which flash their lights to recognize one another or to give mating signals, use different lengths of flashes according to their species. In addition, in some species, it is the male who flashes first to attract the female, while in other species, the females do the "calling." Some fireflies use their lights in self-defense. They flash to warn enemies that their taste is unappetizing.

Besides fireflies, a number of other insects, various sea creatures, and many other types of species produce their own light. Each species has different characteristics. These include the manner of light production, the fields of their usage of light, and the lengths and kinds of light they produce.

Who furnished these creatures with systems through which they produce the type of light they can make use of, and then maintains the continuation of these systems? It is not, of course, the creatures themselves. It is not possible for complex organs capable of producing light yet not harming the creatures of which they are part in the process to have come into being as the result of coincidences.

All luminous creatures are evidence of the superior power of the creation of Allah. Allah introduces us, through these creatures He has created, to the evidence of His endless knowledge, wisdom and might.

Magnificence Of The Luminous Creatures

One of the best-known luminous creatures is the firefly. Scientists have spent years of research trying to produce a light as efficient as the light produced by fireflies. Fireflies achieve maximum efficiency and lose almost no energy.

Give a Smile Instead of Chocolate

 Photo: Give a Smile Instead of Chocolate

Ibn Jaz said: “I have not seen anyone who smiled more than the Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam).” (Hasan) [Chapters on Al-Manaqib: Jami At-Tirmidhi]

What do you gain when you smile? When you smile, the actual movement triggers the brain’s pleasure points. Smiling causes endorphins, which are known as the body’s natural painkillers, to be released. Not surprisingly, endorphins are also released when laughing, exercising, eating chocolate, getting massaged, meditating, to just about anything that leaves a smile on your face. A smile makes a person feel as good as eating 2000 bars of chocolate. 

Research shows that after being shown pictures of smiling people, the brain and heart activity of participants is equal to that when given 2,000 chocolate bars. So the next time you think of giving someone chocolate, give a smile instead – it will do 2,000 times better.

Research has also shown that women who showed an intense happiness in their smiles indicated a happier future. When we smile our voices project a warmer tone. So if you smile while speaking you are likely to have a better conversation. Smiling is also a ticket to better health. Numerous medical and psychological studies have found that through the triggering of certain hormones, a smile promotes good overall health. This leads to lower heart rates, steady breathing and the ability to smile through stressful situations.

Smiling has been found to boost levels of the neurotransmitter, serotonin. It is a vital part of regulating our moods, sleep, sexuality and appetite. Thus, serotonin helps to keep us healthy and happy which in turn produces more smiles. The physical act of smiling can use as little as 5 muscles or well over 16 and just like any muscle the more you use it, the stronger it is. Body builders shape their physique so their muscles are defined without even flexing. Similarly, maintaining a healthy smile will define an expressive, happy face. Smiling is contagious; when you smile it makes others smile, so you spread the happiness and well being around!

Jarir ibn Abdullah said: “I did not see the Prophet, since I embraced Islam, without a smile on his face. I saw him smiling when he could not see me and he would smile in my presence.” [Sahih Bukhari]

Give a Smile Instead of Chocolate

Ibn Jaz said: “I have not seen anyone who smiled more than the Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam).” (Hasan) [Chapters on Al-Manaqib: Jami At-Tirmidhi]

THE STRUCTURAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE SUN, THE MOON AND THE STARS


 

THE STRUCTURAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE SUN, THE MOON AND THE STARS

We built seven firm layers above you. We installed a blazing lamp. (Qur'an, 78:12-13)

As we know, the only source of light in the Solar System is the Sun. With advances in technology, astronomers discovered that the Moon was not a source of light but that it merely reflects the light reaching it from the Sun. The expression "lamp" in the above verse is a translation of the Arabic word "sirajan," which most perfectly describes the Sun, the source of light and heat.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MOVEMENT IN SLEEP

 Photo: THE IMPORTANCE OF MOVEMENT IN SLEEP

You would have supposed them to be awake, whereas in fact they were asleep. We moved them to the right and to the left, and, at the entrance, their dog stretched out its paws. If you had looked down and seen them, you would have turned from them and run, and have been filled with terror at the sight of them. (Qur'an, 18:18)

The above verse refers to the People of the Cave, who remained asleep for hundreds of years. In addition, Allah also reveals that He moved their bodies to the left and right. The wisdom of this was only discovered in recent times.

People who remain lying down in the same position for long period of time encounter serious health problems, such as circulation difficulties, sores, and blood clotting in that part of the body in contact with the surface on which they lie.

The resulting sores are known as "bed sores" or "pressure sores." Due to the constant pressure on one part of the body when one is not moving for a long period of time, the blood vessels become constricted and can close altogether. As a result, the oxygen and other nutrients carried by the blood fail to reach the skin, and the skin begins to die. This leads to the appearance of sores on the body. Unless these sores are treated, fat and muscles can also die.

These sores, which form under the skin or tissue, can assume serious dimensions unless treated. If they become infected, they can even lead to death. The healthiest thing to do, therefore, is to change the position of the body every 15 minutes in order to reduce this pressure. Patients who cannot move themselves therefore receive special care and are moved every 2 hours by other people. The fact that these medical facts, only discovered in the last century, are referred to in the Qur'an is yet another of its miracles.



THE IMPORTANCE OF MOVEMENT IN SLEEP

You would have supposed them to be awake, whereas in fact they were asleep. We moved them to the right and to the left, and, at the entrance, their dog stretched out its paws. If you had looked down and seen them, you would have turned from them and run, and have been filled with terror at the sight of them. (Qur'an, 18:18)

Intelligent Retaliation

 Photo: Intelligent Retaliation

Aisha (radi Allahu anha) narrated: “The Jews used to greet the Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) by saying, ‘As-Saamu alaika (i.e., death be upon you),’ so I understood what they said, and I said to them, ‘Alaikumus-saamu wal-la’natu (i.e., death and Allah’s curse be upon you).’ The Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said, ‘Be gentle and calm, O Aishah, as Allah likes gentleness in all affairs.’ I said, ‘O Allah’s Prophet! Didn’t you hear what they said?’ He said, ‘Didn’t you hear me answering them back by saying, ‘Alaikum (i.e., the same be upon you)?’” [Sahih Bukhari]

Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) was aware of what was being said to him. And he retaliated; but intelligently - without causing a big stir. Without using the bad words the Jews used for him, he returned their evil wishes on them. Thus, he set an example of the tone and manner in which a Muslim responds to provocation.

Think of how reactive we are. We immediately jump at the throat of whoever hurts us. Our voices are raised, our tone becomes harsh. Our reproach is not characterized by calmness or gentleness, although it is possible to retaliate in a mild manner as well. Retaliating while forcing oneself to remain in a calm state ensures that we do not transgress the limits of revenge and become sinful ourselves by overstepping the bounds of the lawful.

He who uses foul language should think of himself as a Munafiq (hypocrite) as the use of coarse and evil language, while in a disagreement, is a particular characteristic of the hypocrites. To be a hypocrite is worse than to be a Kafir.

Intelligent Retaliation

Aisha (radi Allahu anha) narrated: “The Jews used to greet the Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) by saying, ‘As-Saamu alaika (i.e., death be upon you),’ so I understood what they said, and I said to them, ‘Alaikumus-saamu wal-la’natu (i.e., death and Allah’s curse be upon you).’


THE MIRACLES OF SMELL AND TASTE

 

THE MIRACLES OF SMELL AND TASTE

Can you remember all the pleasant aromas you have ever smelled over the course of your life? A great many will come to mind: those emitted in spring by roses, carnations, lilac, jasmine, lavender, grass and other plants; those wafted abroad by orange, mandarin and lemon trees; the bewitching scents of certain perfumes; the delightful smells of assorted spices; the rich aromas of fresh or fried bread, tomatoes, eggs, olives, tea, coffee or milk when you come to breakfast in the morning and; the smell of meat sizzling on a barbecue, or a bar of fresh, clean soap . . .