Having 86 Wives: Un-Islamic

Having 86 Wives: Un-Islamic

Question
As-salamu `alaykum. Respected scholar, I read in the news that a Nigerian man is having 86 wives, claiming that the Qur'an doesn't place a limit to the number of wives. It is this true ? ( Question By : Ahmad - Malaysia )

Answer

Wa `alaykum as-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear brother, thank you for your important question that shows a keen desire to acquire Islamic knowledge and for the trust you place in us. May Almighty Allah guide all of us to what He wants and show us the right path.

In fact, the claim that the Qur'an doesn't limit the number of wives in the polygamous marriage is groundless and a grave mistake. There is a consensus among Muslim scholars that four is the maximum number of wives a man might have. This is based on the Qur'an itself and the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

Allah says in the Qur'an,[And if ye fear that ye will not deal fairly by the orphans, marry of the women, who seem good to you, two or three or four] (An-Nisa' 4: 3).

All Muslim scholars say that this Qur'anic verse does clearly restrict the maximum number of wives to four.

In response to your question,the eminent Muslim scholar Sheikh `Abdel Khaliq Hasan Ash-Shareef, a renowned scholar and da`iyah, stated,

What this man is claiming is not based on any sound or acceptable source of Shari`ah.
Both the Qur'an the Sunnah are very clear that four is the maximum number of wives a man might have.

When Ghaylan Ath-Thaqafi accepted Islam, he had ten wives. The Prophet (peace and blessings be on him) told him, "Choose four of them and divorce the rest." (Reported by Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah, Ibn Abi Shaybah, Ad-Darqutni, and Al-Bayhaqi)

What this man is doing is in clear conflict with the Muslim scholar's agreement. His wrong understanding has no weight and is totally unacceptable.

Fulfilling One’s Duties as a Wife: How ?

Fulfilling One’s Duties as a Wife: How ?

Question
What are the limits of the duties a wife must fulfill toward her husband so as to be considered doing an act of jihad in the cause of Allah ? ( Question By : Fatimah - Egypt )

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Thanks for your interesting question, and we implore Allah to inculcate love and affection among all Muslims husband and wives. Islam encourages both the husband and the wife to help each other live a happy and righteous life within the boundaries of Islam. The husband is required by Islam to treat his wife kindly, and by the same vein the wife is supposed to please her husband by all means possible. If the wife does so sincerely, then surely she is doing an act of jihad that is generously rewarded by Allah.

Responding to the question, the prominent Egyptian scholar Sheikh Muhammad Husain `Isa, states the following:

A woman can work a righteous deed that is equal in reward to jihad, Hajj, and zakah. This deed is illustrated in the hadith in which Asma’ bint Zayd Al-Ansariyah asked the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) about deeds that women can perform and get rewards equal to those of jihad, hajj, and zakah, which were mostly performed by men. Upon that, Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) ordered her to tell all Muslim women that the wife’s fulfillment of her duties toward her husband had a reward equal to those of all the aforementioned righteous deeds. That was why Asma’ was called “Women’s Spokeswoman,” for she told the Prophet that all Muslim women wanted to ask him the same question and that she spoke on their behalf.

This shows the attitude of women during the lifetime of Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him). They were keen on competing with men for divine rewards and for attaining Allah’s pleasure, not for attaining higher positions or being superior to men at home, as do many women today. The main concern of those true Muslim women was to please Almighty Allah.

Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) guided Asma’ to a deed of great rewards, namely fulfilling her duties toward her husband. These duties are represented in being keen on pleasing her husband, being beautiful in his eyes, caring for him, serving him, assisting him, doing all that pleases him, and fulfilling all his demands.

Among these duties is also being keen on sexually satisfying him, meeting him with a smile and warm welcome when he comes back home from work; tidying the house for him to make him comfortable; preparing the best food for him; and neatening and glamorizing herself for him in their bedroom. In this way, the wife makes her husband attached to her and to their house and makes him disinterested in other women, thus preserving her his chastity and assisting him to be righteous and obedient to Almighty Allah.

Since this is a great deed, the wife’s reward is also great, as stated by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). The wife’s reward for fulfilling her duties towards her husband is equal to those of fighting in the cause of Allah, performing hajj, and giving in charity seeking the pleasure of Almighty Allah, the Lord

Allah’s Absolute Knowledge vs. Doctor’s Knowledge of the Fetus’ Gender

Allah’s Absolute Knowledge vs. Doctor’s Knowledge of the Fetus’ Gender

Question
Dear scholars, as-Salamu `alaykum. The Qur’an tells us that only God knows whether the child will be a male or female. But now with the latest techniques (ultra-sound, x-rays and other modern technologies), doctors can discern whether the fetus is male or female? How can we explain the authenticity of the Qur’an following this scientific achievement ? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Mohammad- Pakistan )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear brother in Islam, we would like to thank you for your interesting question and the great confidence you place in us. We implore Almighty Allah to strengthen our faith and guide us to what pleases Him; He is Oft-Forgiving and Most Merciful!

First of all, we can say that doctors are able to know the gender of the fetus through x-rays and ultrasound scans, but we should realize that this knowledge is still vague and incomplete. They may make mistakes, as has happened on numerous occasions. Even if they know if the fetus is male or female, they do not know whether it will be miscarried or carried to full-term. They do not know the precise length of time that it will stay in its mother’s womb. They do not know how long this person will live, how he will behave or what his provision will be, or whether he will be of the people of Paradise or the people of Hell.

In this context, the prominent Muslim scholar, Mufti Ebrahim Desai, states:

Allah says among the five things that only Allah knows, one is, (And He knows that which is in the wombs.) (Luqman 31: 34) The word ‘that’ in the verse is general and the word ‘wombs’ is plural. Firstly, the scanning machines are not accurate. We have many experiences where the scanning machines were proven incorrect. However, if they are upgraded and are accurate, then too it is not contrary to the verse in the Qur’an. Is there any machine in the world who can simultaneously say how women in the world are pregnant at the same time? And what will be the gender of the child they will be giving birth to?

Assuming that they may produce such a machine that may meet this challenge (albeit farfetched), the world will never be able to produce a machine that can tell us the condition of all the women from the inception of mankind up to the last woman giving birth in this world. The knowledge of all that is only known by Allah and nobody else. To take it one step further, the verse doesn’t speak only about the gender of the child. It may also include the lifespan of the child, being healthy or unhealthy, rich or poor, successful or unsuccessful, all that is best known by Allah. Modern technology will never ever be able to meet these demands.

Elaborating on this issue, Sheikh Muhammad S. Al-Munajjid, a prominent Saudi Muslim lecturer and author, states the following:

Ibn `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) says that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “The keys of the Unseen are five, which no one knows except Allah: no one knows what will happen tomorrow except Allah; no one knows what is in the wombs except Allah; no one knows when it will rain except Allah; no one knows in which land he will die; and no one knows when the Hour will begin except Allah.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari)

Al-Bukhari also reported this hadith with the wording: “The keys of the Unseen are five: ‘Lo! Allah! With Him is knowledge of the Hour. He sendeth down the rain, and knoweth that which is in the wombs. No soul knoweth what it will earn tomorrow, and no soul knoweth in what land it will die. Lo! Allah is Knower, Aware.’ (Luqman 31: 34)” Allah is the only One Who knows the Unseen.

He Almighty says, (Say (O Muhammad): None in the heavens and the earth knoweth the Unseen save Allah; and they know not when they will be raised (again).) (An-Naml 27: 65) The Unseen referred to in the aforementioned verse is the same as that described in surat Luqman mentioned above. Coming more closely to the issue in point, we can say that doctors are able to know the gender of the fetus through x-rays and ultrasound scans, but we should realize that this knowledge is still vague and incomplete. They may make mistakes, as has happened on numerous occasions. Moreover, they can only perform these investigations after the elapse of a certain number of weeks of pregnancy, and not before. Even if they know if the fetus is male or female, they do not know whether it will be miscarried or carried to full-term, or born alive or stillborn. They do not know the precise length of time that it will stay in its mother’s womb. They have nothing but conjecture and uncertainties. They do not know how long this person will live, how he will behave or what his provision will be, or whether he will be of the people of Paradise or the people of Hell. Knowledge of what is in the wombs is not merely a matter of knowing whether the fetus is male or female; it is broader than that, and no one can know it all except Allah.

He Almighty says, (Allah knoweth that which every female beareth and that which the wombs absorb and that which they grow. And everything with Him is measured.) (Ar-Ra`d: 8) In his Tafsir, Imam Ibn Kathir (may Allah have mercy on him) comments on this verse, saying: ‘Allah is telling us here of His complete knowledge: nothing is hidden from Him and He knows fully what the females of every species carry in their wombs. He Almighty knows whether the fetus is male or female, good or bad, destined for Paradise or doomed to Hell, have a short life or a long one. Allah Almighty says: (He is best aware of you (from the time) when He created you from the earth, and when ye were hidden in the bellies of your mothers.

Therefore ascribe not purity unto yourselves. He is best aware of him who wardeth off (evil).) (An-Najm 53: 32) Ibn Mas`ud (may Allah be pleased with him) says that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “The way that each of you is created is that he is gathered in his mother’s womb for forty days and then for a similar length of time as a blood-clot and then for a similar length of time as a lump of flesh. Then an angel is sent, and he breathes the spirit into him and is charged with four commands: to write down his provision, his life span, his actions, and whether he will be wretched or happy.”

According to another narration, the angel says: “O Lord, male or female? Wretched or happy? How much provision? How long is his life span? And he writes that.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim) Every Muslim should have firm belief, beyond any shadow of doubt, that what the Prophet (peace blessings be upon him) says is ‘wahy’ (Divine Revelation) revealed to him by Allah. Allah Almighty says: (By the Star when it setteth. Your comrade erreth not, nor is deceived;‏ Nor doth he speak of (his own) desire. It is naught save an inspiration that is inspired.) (An-Najm 53: 1-4)

Talking with Friends about Sexual Matters: Acceptable?

Talking with Friends about Sexual Matters: Acceptable ?

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. Is it permissible to socially converse with friends about sexual matters? What is one supposed to do when the topic comes up among friends? Listen, joke around with them, or walk away? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Wahid - Andorra )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, first of all, we’d like to commend you for your eagerness to get acquainted with the teachings of Islam. Thanks for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

Allah created the sexual desire in humans. It is as normal as is the desire for food or shelter. Like other desires that Allah created in humans, it is powerful and can overwhelm a weak human.

Sexual desire, like the desire for food, can be satisfied legally or illegally. But we have to stress that Islam is aware of educating people on the proper way of satisfying their desire in the light of its noble teachings. In seeking this knowledge, shyness does not stand as a barrier in this case, but such knowledge must be imparted in a modest and dignified manner.

Almighty Allah says, “Say (unto them, O Muhammad): Are those who know equal with those who know not? But only men of understanding will pay heed.” (Az-Zumar: 9) If the conversation is such that the topic of sex is taken lightly or joked about, it should be avoided. Also, one should not divulge details of his or her intimate conduct for the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Among those who will occupy the worst position in the Sight of Allah on the Day of Resurrection is the man who has intercourse with his wife and then spreads her secret.” (Reported by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, and Al-Bazzar)

Answering your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:
If such conversations have any meaningful educational purpose, and they are conducted within the permitted limits of Islamic ethics governing such talks, there is nothing wrong with such talks. During the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) men and women used to raise questions relating to sexual matters in public in order to seek Islamic guidance. So you must ask yourself: Are there any tangible purposes or benefits in such conversations?

If the answer is no, then they fall definitely under the category of major sins. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) emphatically stated that there is no salvation possible unless we guard our tongues. He said, “Most people enter hell fire because of what their tongues have harvested!” He also said, “Whoever guarantees me that he will guard his private parts and his tongue and keep them pure and chaste, I will guarantee him/her paradise!” Furthermore, engaging in such conversations may also inadvertently lead people to fornication or adultery. This is why the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “The eyes commit adultery, the tongue commits adultery, the hands commit adultery, the feet commit adultery, the private parts finally either consummate it or repudiate it!” Now coming to the final part of the question: what should a person do when faced with such situations. The answer is: you should walk away from them if possible, or change the topic. If that is not possible either, then occupy yourself with some other business and hate the thing in your own heart. Allah says that one of the traits of the Servants of the Merciful is that “When they pass by idle chatter, they pass by with dignity!” (Al-Furqan: 72).

Women Praying in an Open Space

Women Praying in an Open Space

Question
Respected scholars, as-salamu `alaykum.I'm a Muslim woman regularly attends the musalla [Arabic for: Prayer hall] for salah on my campus.Recently, the barrier separating our musalla from the rest of the mosque was opened to provide an open space for the sisters to pray.Some brothers have objected to the sisters performing Sunnah prayers in that open space, saying it is not right for a sister to pray Sunnah without a barrier. Is this true?Do I have no right to pray sunnah in a barrier-free zone ? Jazakum Allahu khayran. ( Question By : Hind )

Answer
Wa `alaykum as-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, thank you for your question, which reflects your care to have a clear view of the teachings of Islam. Allah commands Muslims to refer to people of knowledge to get themselves well-acquainted with the teachings of Islam as well as all aspects of life.

As far as Islamic Shari`ah is concerned, a Muslim woman is allowed to pray in an open space for the sisters to pray without a barrier. It should be clear that Almighty Allah did not prescribe segregation of males from females in the Qur'an; He only forbade indiscriminate mingling and mixing and khalwah. The woman is required to wear decent clothes that cover her `awrah (Arabic for: parts of the body that must be covered) and at the same time men are required to lower their gaze.

In his response to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, stated,

It is perfectly fine for you to pray in the same hall as men do as long as it is an open space —provided, of course, there is no indiscriminate mingling.

It is important for us to know that during the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), men and women used to pray in the same hall without any barriers. This is amply clear from the sources. Thus, women were able to see the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and they were able to learn the lessons he imparted from the minbar (Arabic for: pulpit) directly from his mouth. How often we read in the sources women saying that they learned such and such surah (Arabic for: chapter of the Qur'an) directly from the mouth of the Prophet, as he was used to reading them during sermons.

Hence, it is only reasonable to state that the barrier separating men and women at mosques today is a later-on innovation; therefore, there is nothing sacred about it.

It is important in this connection to point out that women have every right to see the speaker and imam while delivering the khutbah (Arabic for: sermon).

That the women during the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) were assertive in this is also clear from the sources. For the very idea of setting up a minbar for the Prophet to deliver the khutbah was suggested by a woman. She pointed out to him that she had a carpenter who could carve some wooden steps; if he were to stand on them while delivering sermons, everyone would be able to see him.

Therefore, the right of women to see and hear the speaker directly is a legitimate one. You can continue to pray in the open space without a barrier separating men and women.

Having said this, however, I must also point out that you should have a barrier in front of you to mark your prayer space so that people can pass in front of you, should a need arise. For this purpose, all that is needed is to use a prayer rug or place a book or handbag in front of you. The purpose of it is simply to allow for people to pass in front of the worshipper without distracting him or her.

Excerpted with slight modifications from islam.ca

Going to Beaches in Summer

Going to Beaches in Summer

Question
Dear scholars, As-salamu `alaykum. Is it permissible for a Muslim to enjoy summer at the beach ? And what are the conditions for enjoying the beach in summer ? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Shadi - United States )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear brother in Islam, thanks a lot for your question, which reflects your care to have a clear view of the teachings of Islam. Allah commands Muslims to refer to people of knowledge to become well acquainted with the teachings of Islam as well as all aspects of life.

Going to beaches for recreation is permissible for any Muslim. Practicing Muslims are not to be denied this right. Practicing Muslims, like anyone else, are free to enjoy the fresh air of the sea.

Almighty Allah permits Muslims to enjoy the lawful things He gave to them. Among these lawful things is sightseeing and enjoying the beauty of the universe. Almighty Allah says: (Say: Who hath forbidden the adornment of Allah which He hath brought forth for His bondmen, and the good things of His providing?) (Al-A`raf 5:32). But this should be within the prescribed limits, not to fall into that which is haram.

In his response to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

In Islam, we are warned against sins of nudity, promiscuity, and permissiveness that corrupt the soul as well as the mind. They all lead to temptations, which lead to sins, and sins eventually lead to Hellfire and eternal perdition.

It is therefore imperative that, while enjoying summer at the beach, we specifically avoid areas associated with the above and find locations or times where we will be staying clear of the above completely.

While enjoying summer at the beach as a group, we are not allowed to practice indiscriminate mingling of sexes, nor are we allowed to expose our `awrah to others. Remember `awrah includes all parts of the body that we must keep covered from others (except our lawful spouses).

Finally, while enjoying summer activities we must never forget our Prayers or other essential Islamic duties of worship.

You can assign different areas of the beach for males and females for activities such as swimming, or divide the time by making schedules for them.

Use your creative mind to think of halal (lawful) alternatives, for Allah assures us that for everything He has declared as haram (unlawful) for us, there is always a halal alternative in Islam. Therefore, our challenge is to find the halal alternative.

For as long as the above mentioned factors are taken into consideration, there are no restrictions on enjoying summer at the beach.

Wearing Colored Contact Lenses

Wearing Colored Contact Lenses

Question
As-Salamu `alaykum wa Ramatullah wa Barakatuh! Dear scholars, what does Islam say on wearing colored contact lenses, especially for women? Is it haram ? ( Question By : Salwa )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, we would like to thank you for showing keenness on knowing the teachings of Islam, and we appreciate the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations.

As regards your question, we’d like to cite for you the fatwa issued by Sheikh `Atiyyah Saqr, former head of Al-Azhar Fatwa Committee:

“I think that when men use contact lenses, they use them primarily to cure their sore eyesight. Such form of use both for curing long-sightedness and short-sightedness is purely for a medical purpose. Therefore, there is nothing wrong in using contact lenses in this case because they here resemble normal eye glasses. What applies to men, according to the previous ruling, applies also to women.

However, if women use those contact lenses for the purpose of exposing beauty, drawing men’s attention and causing temptation, there is no doubt that such thing is strictly prohibited.

Here, we would like to refer to an important point, relating to the common habit noticed in some girls wearing colorful contact lenses and choosing the green in particular for the purpose of attraction, and physical appearance. So the ruling on this is based on the purpose and intention. If the aim behind wearing such contact lenses is to cause sedition and obtain gains out of deception, then there is no doubt that wearing such lenses in this case is forbidden."

Shedding more light on this issue, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, Imam and religious director at both the Islamic center of Toronto (Jami mosque) and the Islamic foundation of Toronto, and instructor at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, says:

“The Shari`ah has come to observe three categories of people’s interests (Masalih), namely Daroriyyat (necessities), Hajiyyat (complementary), and Tahsiniyyat (embellishments). In all of its rulings the Shari`ah aims at the realization of one or the other of these Masalih.

As far as the issue of women wearing colored contacts is concerned, I would like to raise this question: under which category of the foregoing interests can we put this act? I cannot say it is Daroriyyat, nor Hajiyyat, or Tahsiniyyat because I wonder why do women think they should do that?

Further, some of these modern cosmetics aim at changing Allah’s creation in some forms like changing the color of the eye. Allah has given each woman a beauty that she can adorn herself and beautify for her husband without going to the extreme and doing something which might be considered repugnant according to the Shari`ah.

I do not say wearing colored contacts is haram since there is no certain operation to be undergone with a view to changing the color of the eyes forever. But I would say it is a kind of excessive beautification which is not recommended in Islam. Islam, as a religion that is based on moderation, does not approve of going to the extreme in anything.

However, if such kind of lenses are used for medical purpose and for the sake of treating sickness in the eyes, then it is a necessity which is given exception in Islam.”

Sheikh Muhammad Saleh Al-Munajid, a prominent Saudi lecturer and author, adds:

“There are two types of contact lenses:
1- Ophthalmic contact lenses: Those that are used to correct sight defects. There is nothing wrong with using this kind of contact lenses on the advice of a specialist oculist.

2- Colored cosmetic contact lenses: These come under the rulings on adornment. If a woman wears them for her husband, there is nothing wrong with it. If she wears them for other to see her, then it should not cause any fitnah or temptation. There is also the condition that they should not cause any harm, and there should be no element of cheating or deceiving, such as a woman wearing them when she meets the man who is proposing marriage to her.“

Giving a Muslim Child a Non-Arabic Name

Giving a Muslim Child a Non-Arabic Name

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. Can you give your child a name that is in a language other than Arabic, as long as it has a good meaning? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Charles - Canada )

Answer

Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

Islam does not oblige Muslim people to choose specific names, Arabic or non-Arabic, for their children, whether boys or girls. It is rather up to people to choose the names for their children. However, selecting names should be pursuant to some Islamic rules that will be stated below. Islam emphasizes that Muslims should have good names and give good names to their children. It is reported in a Hadith that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "You will be called on the Day of Resurrection by your names and the names of your fathers, so have good names." (Reported by Abu Dawud)

Answering your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

“Children are a trust in the hands of parents. Parents, therefore, have a duty to receive this divine gift with a true sense of gratitude and do everything at their disposal to provide the best nurturing. There is nothing better they can do in this regard than by providing them a home filled with love and kindness, and thus contributing to their overall physical, intellectual, ethical and spiritual growth and development. Such a duty begins before the birth of the child and extends all through their lives. Having said this, I must say, that the first important duty when a child is born is to recite the adhan in the right ear in a gentle voice, and give him or her a good name.

As for the choice of names, we are given the following guidelines:
1. We must certainly avoid names that indicate any trace of shirk or association of partners with Allah. Therefore it is forbidden to call someone `Abd al-Ka`bah, or `Abd al-Nabi (servant of the Ka`bah or servant of the Prophet), since all of us are servants of Allah alone.

2. We must also avoid names that imply meanings that are offensive or unpleasant in connotations. The Prophet changed names such as Harb (War) with Salam (Peace), ‘Asiyah (Rebellious) with Jamilah (Beautiful), Sa`b (Difficult) with Sahl (Easy to deal with), etc.

3. We are encouraged to give names that have good or noble meanings or associations, for names may inadvertently inspire a person to do great things or stay away from vices. Choosing names of prophets or great persons who have been role models of virtue and piety is an excellent idea. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) named his son Ibrahim, and he said, “I have called him by my father’s name!”

Having said this, I must add: There is nothing in the Islamic sources to indicate that we are allowed only to give our children Arabic names. Since Islam is a universal religion, there is no such requirement. Any name is okay so long as we keep in mind the above points. But, at the same time, while choosing names, we must strive our best not to compromise our Islamic identity.”

Excerpted, with slight modifications, from: www.islam.ca

Breastfeeding Period for Male and Female Babies

Breastfeeding Period for Male and Female Babies

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. I heard that boys should be nursed (before weaning) for a longer period than girls. Is that true ? Please clarify. Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Samira )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, we appreciate your question and the trust you place in us. We implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

It should be clear that Islam does not sanction any discrimination between children based on gender differences; this is totally un-Islamic. The idea that a baby boy should be nursed for a longer period than a baby girl can be traced to customs of people, while Islam is totally innocent of such discrimination.

Answering the question you raised, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

"Allah says in the Qur’an: “And the mothers may nurse their children for two whole years, if they wish to complete the period of nursing…And if both (parents) decide, by mutual consent and counsel, upon weaning the child, they will incur no sin (thereby); and if you decide to entrust your children to foster-mothers, you will incur no sin provided you ensure, in a fair manner, the safety of the child which you are handing over. But remain conscious of Allah, and know that Allah sees all that you do.” (Al-Baqarah: 233)

Based on the above verses as well as the relevant traditions of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), scholars have concluded that the ideal period of breast-feeding a child is two years. In this respect there is absolutely no difference whatsoever between a baby boy and a baby girl. One should, however, not rush to conclude from this that parents are not allowed to wean a child before two years.

Parents are allowed to wean a child before the expiry of two years —provided they do so based on consensual agreement and provided doing so would not jeopardize the health of the child. Children vary in their need for breast-milk because of the differences in their development and health considerations. This is why the Shari`ah has not laid down any hard and fast rule in this regard. The decision when to wean a child is left to parents, who are instructed to exercise it by considering primarily the welfare of the child involved.

If, therefore, it has been determined that weaning a particular child before two years is considered detrimental to the normal health of the child, it shall be considered haram (unlawful) for parents to do so, as we are not allowed to jeopardize the wellbeing of a child.
It should be clear from what is stated above that there is no difference in all of these between a baby boy and baby girl. The Qur’anic imperative stipulates that each child must be fed according to his or her needs and health conditions. To discriminate between children based purely on gender differences is not sanctioned in Islam. We must, therefore, consider it as purely un-Islamic. If one asks: Where did such an idea come from? The answer: It can be traced to customs of people, which ironically they often tend to project onto Islam, while Islam is totally innocent of such discrimination. Allah says, “Allah speaks the truth and He guides to the straight way.” (Al-Ahzab: 4)"

Excerpted, with slight modifications, from: www.muslims.ca

Treating Girls Differently

Treating Girls Differently

Question
I am female and my parents treat me different from my brothers. I think they are too strict, but they tell me that they just love me. Is this fair ? ( Question By : Sufia - United Kingdom )

Answer
In The Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, thank you very much for having confidence in us, and we hope our efforts, which are purely for Allah’s Sake, meet your expectations.

As far as Islam is concerned, parents are required to treat their children equally. Parents might seem extra cautious as to the well being and religious upbringing of their children, especially girls. But girls should never think ill of their parents and they should keep in mind that their parents truly care for them and in no way will true Muslim parents treat daughters unfairly. Parents, on the other hand, ought to be thoughtful of their children’s feelings and try their best to treat them justly and fairly. With this, the root of the problem will be removed and the whole atmosphere of love, compassion, tranquility and serenity will replace ill feelings.

In his response to the question, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former president of the Islamic Society of North America, states the following:

Boys and girls both should be treated fairly by their parents and other elders. The rules of halal and haram are the same for boys and girls. It is not Shari`ah, but our cultural mentality that makes some of us think that a loose boy is O.K., but a loose girl is not because she brings shame to the entire family. The un-Islamic behavior brings shame, whether it is of boys or girls. All of us should understand that.

Moreover, parents should be equally concerned with the behavior of their boys and girls. This is the general principle, but girls also have a special need. They need more protection, because very often it is girls who become the victims of assaults, rape and other indignities. In most cases boys can defend themselves, but girls need help.

In America, we see warnings and reminders to girls and women at schools, colleges and universities and everywhere, that they should be extra careful and cautious. They should not go alone in unpopulated areas, especially at night. They are told to be careful when dealing with males, even those whom they know. All these warnings are given for only one reason and the reason is that females need more protection. Thus, it is necessary for girls to receive extra care and attention from their parents as well as their older brothers and other relatives.

Based on this, your parents are true when they say that they love you. It is because of their love for you they want to protect you, but they should not have a double standard of halal and haram. They should not make one standard for boys and another for girls. That is un-Islamic.

Muslim Women Going to Malls: Any Restrictions ?

Muslim Women Going to Malls: Any Restrictions ?

Question
I would like to know whether there is a ruling on going to malls and stores for fun and leisure, especially for women. I heard that there is a curse on it, so I’d like to know more about that. Your answer is greatly appreciated.

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we would like to thank you for showing keenness on knowing the teachings of Islam, and we appreciate the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations.

The ruling of women going to malls, stores, and for having fun and leisure depends on the way they dress, the place they go to, the permission of the husband, as well as the balance woman is supposed to strike between her rights and family obligations.

Generally speaking, there is nothing wrong in a woman’s going out as long as she abides by the Islamic code of dress, obtains her husband’s permission before going out, and the place she wants to go to is not of a suspicious nature, and this would not affect her family duties, otherwise, it is not allowed.

Responding to the question, Sheikh Hamid Al-`Ali, instructor of Islamic Heritage at the Faculty of Education, Kuwait and Imam of Dahiat As-Sabahiyya Mosque, states the following:

What matters here is not the act of going out itself, rather it’s how a woman goes out. It is not allowed for a woman to leave her house except with the permission of her husband. Her husband can either give her a general permission or she can act according to the custom or `urf of people. For example, if it is the custom of people that women can go for meeting necessary needs, visiting her neighbor, going for work (actually if she is doing a legal work), or visiting her relatives, then there is nothing wrong in her going out.

Another important condition for women going out is that they have to abide by the Islamic dress code. Moreover, if a woman goes out, she has to avoid places of temptations or any place that might cause people to think evil of her if she goes without accompanying her husband.

A woman, furthermore, has to strike a balance between her responsibility towards her kids and husband, and her rights to go out and visit people. If the things contradict with each other, it is not allowed to go outside and neglect her family duties. Moreover, women should not go out excessively as that is not recommended.

Marriage within the Family

Marriage within the Family

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. I was told by one of my relatives that it is a part of Islam, not just a part of culture, that when you want to get married, first you should look within your family. Then if there is no one suitable from among your near relatives, you should look to your distant relatives, and if not then within your community, and if not your community then within your race, and finally if this is not possible then within your religion. I understand everything from the community and on, but I was wondering if it is necessary to look within the family first? Jazakum Allah khayran.

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

It is clear that Islam, undoubtedly, permits a man to marry any of his relatives except those forbidden for marriage whom Allah mentioned in surat an-Nisa': 23.. Concerning the issue of preferring a marriage partner from within one’s family before choosing one from outside, this varies from one case to another. Islam is generally keen to widen the circle of social bonds.

Responding to your question, Dr. Muzammil H. Siddiqi, former President of the Islamic Society of North America, states:

“This list of preferences in marriage is not mentioned in the Qur’an or Sunnah. It is simply people’s own preference. It is up to you to follow it or not. Generally people prefer to marry people of their own kind. Marriages among people who are compatible to each other in family background, age, education, looks and habits are more successful. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "A woman is married for four things, i.e., her wealth, her family status, her beauty, and her religion. So you should marry the religious woman; (otherwise) you will be a loser." (Reported by Al-Bukhari)

It is permissible to marry within your own family or relatives, and most people like that. However, as Muslims we must keep in mind that there are some relatives who are haram for marriage. These are mentioned in surat an-Nisa’: 23. Almighty Allah says: “Prohibited to you (for marriage) are: your mothers, daughters, sisters; father’s sisters, mother’s sisters; brother’s daughters, sister’s daughters; foster-mothers (who gave you suck), foster-sisters; your wives’ mothers; your step-daughters under your guardianship, born of your wives to whom you have gone in, no prohibition if you have not gone in; (those who have been) wives of your sons proceeding from your loins; and two sisters in wedlock at one and the same time, except for what is past; for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

It is also forbidden for Muslims to marry non-Muslims. The only exception is that a Muslim male is allowed to marry a chaste woman from among the People of the Book, i.e. Christians or Jews (see al-Ma’idah: 5).

It should also be remembered that forced marriages are not permissible in Islam. Parents should never force their sons and daughters to marry someone against their will. This is haram and it causes many social problems. Parents should advise their children and likewise children should take their parents’ advice seriously, but finally it is the will and consent of those who are getting married that should prevail.”

Husband Doesn't Pray: What to Do ?

Husband Doesn't Pray: What to Do ?

Question
Respected scholars, as-salamu `alaykum. My husband doesn't pray. Every time I talk to him about prayer, he tells me that as long as he doesn't drink or commit adultery, then he's a good Muslim. I keep telling him about the importance of prayer, but he doesn't seem to misunderstand the broader picture.Can you help me with some arguments ? Jazakum Allahu Khayran. ( Question By : Mona - United States )

Answer
Wa `alaykum as-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, thank you for your question, which reflects your concern about Islam and its teachings. Also, we appreciate the confidence you have in us and implore Almighty Allah to bless your efforts in pursuit of knowledge.

There is no doubt that neglecting prayers out of laziness is one of the most heinous sins in Islam. Indeed, salah is the second pillar of Islam after the two Testifications of Faith (testifying that there is no true god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah). Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Islam is built upon five pillars: testifying that there is no true god except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, performing salah, paying the zakah, making the pilgrimage (Hajj) to the Sacred House, and fasting the month of Ramadan" (Reported by Al-Bukhari).

So, you are advised, dear sister, to do your best to help your husband come back to the right path and understand the essence and importance of Prayer. Try to do that in a wise and kind way seeking the help of the imam of a nearby Islamic center, friends, or influential family members.

In his response to your question, Sheikh Muhammad Nur Abdullah, former president of ISNA (the Islamic Society of North America) and member of the Fiqh Council of North America, stated,

Salah is the second pillar of Islam. It is the distinction between Islam and disbelief. It is reported that "the first thing a person will be asked about on the Day of Judgment is whether he or she fulfiled his or her duty toward salah; if it is good, the rest of his or her deeds would be good; but if it is bad, the rest of his or her deeds would be bad." And the Qur'an, when addressing believers, frequently repeats the command to "establish Prayers."

You should tell your husband that Allah has commanded us to perform certain obligations and refrain from certain prohibitions. We must, therefore, fulfill our obligations and abstain from forbidden acts. Adultery (zina ) and drinking alcohol are forbidden acts; the Prayer is on the top of the obligatory acts.

Keep trying and be gentle in your approach. May Allah guide him to the right path.

Is photography allowed in Islam ?

Is photography allowed in Islam ?

Question
Is photography allowed in Islam ? Bearing in mind that it is not the same as painting or recreating a being, it's rather a capture of image through light and lens. ( Question By : Usamah - Lithuania )

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear brother in Islam, we would like to thank you for showing keenness on knowing the teachings of Islam, and we appreciate the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations, yet we apologize for the late reply.

With regard to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, answers:

"Photography as a medium of communication or for the simple, innocent retention of memories without the taint of reverence/shirk does not fall under the category of forbidden Tasweer.

One finds a number of traditions from the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, condemning people who make Tasweer, which denotes painting or carving images or statues. It was closely associated with paganism or shirk. People were in the habit of carving images and statues for the sake of worship. Islam, therefore, declared Tasweer forbidden because of its close association with shirk (association of partners with Allah). One of the stated principles of usul-u-Fiqh (Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence) is that if anything directly leads to haram, it is likewise haram. In other words, Tasweer was forbidden precisely for the reason that it was a means leading to shirk.


The function of photography today does not fall under the above category. Even some of the scholars who had been once vehemently opposed to photography under the pretext that it was a form of forbidden Tasweer have later changed their position on it - as they allow even for their own pictures to be taken and published in newspapers, for videotaping lectures and for presentations; whereas in the past, they would only allow it in exceptional cases such as passports, drivers’ licenses, etc. The change in their view of photography is based on their assessment of the role of photography.


Having said this, one must add a word of caution: To take pictures of leaders and heroes and hang them on the walls may not belong to the same category of permission. This may give rise to a feeling of reverence and hero worship, which was precisely the main thrust of the prohibition of Tasweer. Therefore, one cannot make an unqualified statement to the effect that all photography is halal. It all depends on the use and function of it. If it is for educational purpose and has not been tainted with the motive of reverence and hero worship, there is nothing in the sources to prohibit it."


Do keep in touch. If you have any other question, don't hesitate to contact us.

How Islam Views Sex outside Marriage

How Islam Views Sex outside Marriage

Question
Some women go unmarried throughout life due to certain social factors against their will. Are these women allowed to have sex outside the wedlock in any way at any time of their life ? ( Question By : Zahid - United States )

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, thank you very much for having confidence in us, and we hope our efforts, which are purely for His Sake, meet your expectations.

In his response to the question in point, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former president of the Islamic Society of North America, states the following:

“It is a very sad thing to see that Muslim women or men suffer unmarried life due to un-Islamic social factors. We must blame our un-Islamic social customs and materialistic outlook that cause some men and women to remain unmarried.

Some young people or their parents have very high expectations for their spouses. They set a very difficult standard of education, profession, wealth or physical features for any prospective suitor. The result is that such women remain single because the suitors fail to meet those standards. We Muslims must emphasize that the best criterion according to Islam is good character. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is reported to have said: “If someone whose faith and morals you trust makes a proposal of marriage to you then marry him, otherwise there will be trials and much corruption in the land.”

As Muslims it is also our duty to help our Muslim brothers and sisters get married. Allah Almighty says in the Qur’an, “And marry such of you as are solitary and the pious of your slaves and maid servants. If they be poor; Allah will enrich them of His bounty. Allah is of ample means, Aware.”(An-Nur :32)

However, if for any reason men or women are not able to marry, then they must observe abstinence. They have no other way. Allah says in the Qur'an that the believing men and believing women guard their private parts from committing any illicit sexual act. He Almighty says, “ Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and be modest. That is purer for them. Lo! Allah is Aware of what they do.” (An-Nur: 30)

He Almighty also says: “ Lo! men who surrender unto Allah, and women who surrender, and men who believe and women who believe, and men who obey and women who obey, and men who speak the truth and women who speak the truth, and men who persevere (in righteousness) and women who persevere, and men who are humble and women who are humble, and men who give alms and women who give alms, and men who fast and women who fast, and men who guard their modesty and women who guard (their modesty), and men who remember Allah much and women who remember Allah hath prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward.” (Al-Ahzab: 35)

Sexual relations are allowed only among the married couples. Sex outside marriage is not allowed in Islam. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is reported to have said, "O young people, whoever among you can afford to marry, let him/her get married, because marriage protects the private parts of the body (i.e. from illicit relations) and it guards the eyes from straying. But those who cannot afford to marry then let them fast, because fasting will curb their sexual urge.”

Education or Marriage: Which Takes Priority ?

Education or Marriage: Which Takes Priority ?

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. Do you think that a girl should at least get her high school diploma before she gets married? My parents say I should get married now but I didn’t even finish high school yet! I would like to wait until I graduate at least before getting married. What should I do? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Amira )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

It goes without saying that in Islam parents have no right to compel their daughter to get married or to stop her from pursuing education. They have every right to advise their child to get married, but the ultimate decision is in the hands of the child. Moreover, every Muslim woman has a right to basic education and skill training.

In his response to the question in point, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

“While parents in Islam have every right to advise their children and persuade them to get married, nevertheless, the ultimate decision when and with whom they wish to get married lies exclusively in their own hands, and not in the hands of their parents. In other words, parents have no right to compel you to get married now, should you choose to do so after completing your course of studies. If you were coerced into it, then such a marriage would be deemed as invalid in Islam.

In Islam every woman has a right to basic education and skill training. Parents cannot stop her from pursuing it. It is important for girls living in this society to get least their basic education and skills training in order for them to function as intelligent mothers as well as to be able to take care of themselves without being a burden on others, should their marriage fail. So have a free and open discussion with your parents on this issue. You should be able to convince them of the following:

1. Marriage in Islam is ultimately your decision, and parents have only the role of a guide or adviser; since you are the person who must live with the person, you must be able to decide for yourself. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) clearly established this precedent in authentic traditions.

2. Education is a necessity in this day and age. Islam exhorts us to get educated in order to be able to face the many challenges of life. In this day and age, no one gets anywhere in life without at least a basic education and skills training. We must learn a lesson from the pious Caliph `Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) who advised parents saying: 'Remember you are born in a different age; so they need to acquire certain skills which you were not required to learn in your time.'

3. It is you and you alone who must decide when you will be ready for marriage. But at the same time, it is not advisable for you to postpone the marriage indefinitely once you have acquired the basic education, or if you wish to enter into a marriage contract which stipulates that you will be allowed to complete your education even after marriage.

4. Should you find yourself unable to communicate with your parents, you may ask help of some wise people or imams who are respected for their sound knowledge and wisdom to talk to your parents. I pray to Allah to guide your steps and bless you in your decisions. Never fail to pray to Allah, for surely Allah is always with those who do the right things. Ameen.”

Engaged Couples Hanging out Together

Engaged Couples Hanging out Together

Question
As-Salamu `Alaykum. Does the religion of Islam permit the engaged man and woman to meet and spend time together before their marriage ? ( Question By : Islam - United States )

Answer
Wa`alaykum As-Salaamu Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.
In The Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, thank you very much for having confidence in us, and we hope our efforts, which are purely for Allah's Sake, meet your expectations.

In his response to the question, Dr. Muzzamil Siddiqi, former president of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), states the following:

“The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, not only permitted but encouraged the young people to see their prospective spouses before engagement. Jabir, may Allah be pleased with him, quoted the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, as saying: “When one of you make a proposal of marriage to a woman, if you can see what can invite you to marry her then do so.”

When Mughirah Ibn Shu'bah, may Allah be pleased with him, made a proposal of marriage to woman, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, asked him, "Have you seen her?" He said, "No." The Prophet said to him, "See her, because this may make your relationship more permanent." (Reported by An-Nasa'i, Ibn Majah and At-Timidhi)

On the basis of these and other similar Hadiths, the jurists have said that it is allowed for a boy and girl who are considering to marry each other to see and meet each other in the presence of their adult relatives. The meetings should be supervised and with proper Islamic dress and etiquette.

They are not allowed to go out alone or to spend time together alone. Even after the engagement or khitbah they should not have any unsupervised meetings.

They may talk to each other on telephone occasionally or they may write to each other, but they should observe modesty in their conversations and must always remember that they are still unmarried and whatever is allowed for married couples is not yet allowed to them.

In the past, some Muslims used to take an extreme position in this matter. They would not allow their boys and girls to see their prospective spouses at all. The first time they would see and meet each other would be on the night of their union. This was just a cultural practice and not an Islamic custom.

Now, the trend has gone to another extreme un-Islamic practice. It is observed in many Muslim, even in some religious, families that boys and girls are allowed to meet freely and go out without any supervision. This is unlawful and it must be stopped. Such practices, if continued, will corrupt Muslim families and weaken our family structure just as it happened to many non-Muslim families.”

Dowry from the Girl’s Side: Permissible ?

Dowry from the Girl’s Side: Permissible ?

Question
Is it wrong to get a dowry from the girl’s side? If this is done when she is getting married, will the marriage become invalid ? ( Question By : Fatimah )

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Thanks for your interesting question, and we pray to Allah to guide us all to the best, and to grant all those who intend to marry a successful marital life.

Actually, man is supposed to pay the dowry to his wife as it is one of her genuine rights. The woman, on the other hand, is not supposed to pay the dowry to her husband but she is permitted to help him with a sum of money in case he is financially straitened.

Responding to the question, Dr. Sano Koutoub Moustapha, professor of Jurisprudence & Its Principles at the International Islamic University, Malaysia, states: "

I shall pray to Allah to make it easy for those who intend to marry.

As far as the dowry (mahr) is concerned, it should come from the man’s side. It is an obligation upon him that he has to pay to the woman, and this dowry is a full right of the woman which totally belongs to her and not to anybody else.

Dowry is considered one of the main conditions for the validity of the marriage contract. It must be paid either at the beginning of the marriage or within the marriage, and nobody should waive it without the consent of the woman.

Therefore, the man has to pay the dowry to the woman, and it is up to them to agree on the time of the payment. However, there is no harm on the part of the girl if she assists the man willing to marry her with a sum of money if he has difficulty getting money to pay the dowry.

I shall point out that the dowry could be in kind as well as in cash. The dowry should be paid because Allah Almighty says: “And give unto the women, (whom ye marry) free gift of their marriage portions; but if they of their own accord remit unto you a part thereof, then ye are welcome to absorb it (in your wealth)” (An-Nisaa’: 4)

The payment of the dowry is not a prerequisite for the marriage; that is, the marriage can take place without the payment of the mahr on the spot, as it can be paid later on, but there must be an agreement on the payment of the dowry."

Do I Need My Husband's Permission to Cut My Hair ?

Do I Need My Husband's Permission to Cut My Hair ?

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. If a woman wants to cut her hair, should she seek the permission of her husband ? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Salwa )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we commend your pursuit of knowledge and your keenness to seek what is lawful and avoid what is not. We earnestly implore Allah to bless your efforts in this honorable way.

It is to be stressed that the relations between the spouses should be based on tranquility, love and mercy. It is the duty of the husband and wife to see that they are a source of comfort and tranquility for each other. They should do everything physically, emotionally and spiritually to make each other happy and comfortable and avoid anything that violates this happiness and comfort.

In response to the question you raised, the European Council for Fatwa and Research issued the following Fatwa:

There is hair trimming that a woman does from time to time and that a husband may not even notice due to the very slight alteration being made. Women usually do this so that their hair does not become so long as to be difficult to manage. This form of hair shortening does not usually require the permission of the husband.

However, there are forms of hair shortening and alteration that completely change the appearance of the woman, which may surprise the husband if he wasn't consulted. This form of alteration requires the agreement of the husband and wife so that their relationship is not affected by this radical change in the woman's appearance. Due to the fact that a Muslim woman does not show her hair in public nor in front of non-mahram men, it is true that the husband has the foremost right to enjoy his wife's hair.

A wise woman would be sure to pursue all means of maintaining love and affection between herself and her husband, ultimately leading to good Muslim households becoming the real basis of good Muslim societies.

Muslim Woman Shaking Hands With Males

Muslim Woman Shaking Hands With Males

Question
Is it permissible for a Muslim woman to shake hands with males at an interview or workplace. This is due to the Western culture of "eye contact and hand shaking."

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.
Thanks for your question, we implore Allah to guide us all to the best and to reward us all for whatever we do for His sake.

The basic rule is that Muslims should avoid shaking hands with members of the opposite sex unless they find themselves in an awkward situation. The issue is primarily governed by one's own conscience.

Responding to the question, Muhammad Al-Mukhtar Al-Shinqiti, Born in 04/12/1966 at Islamic Republic of Mauritania, director of the Islamic Center of South Plains, Lubbock, Texas, states the following:

There are two common hadiths concerning shaking hands with the opposite sex. In the first hadith, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said, "I do not shake hands with women" (Al-Bukhari).

The second hadith is narrated on the authority of Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him), he said, "The female slave from Madinah would take hold of the hand of Allah's Messenger and lead him wherever she wished, without withdrawing her hands from his hands until the Prophet fulfils her need" (Ahmad).

Based on the two hadiths, we conclude that the basic rule discourages shaking hands with members of the opposite sex, but if one were put in an awkward situation, then there would be no harm to shake hands with members of the opposite sex. This ruling applies to Muslims living in the West because of the social customs prevailing in these countries.

Women Praying in an Open Space

Women Praying in an Open Space

Question
Respected scholars, as-salamu `alaykum.I'm a Muslim woman regularly attends the musalla [Arabic for: Prayer hall] for salah on my campus.Recently, the barrier separating our musalla from the rest of the mosque was opened to provide an open space for the sisters to pray.Some brothers have objected to the sisters performing Sunnah prayers in that open space, saying it is not right for a sister to pray Sunnah without a barrier. Is this true?Do I have no right to pray sunnah in a barrier-free zone ?Jazakum Allahu khayran.


Answer
Wa `alaykum as-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, thank you for your question, which reflects your care to have a clear view of the teachings of Islam. Allah commands Muslims to refer to people of knowledge to get themselves well-acquainted with the teachings of Islam as well as all aspects of life.

As far as Islamic Shari`ah is concerned, a Muslim woman is allowed to pray in an open space for the sisters to pray without a barrier. It should be clear that Almighty Allah did not prescribe segregation of males from females in the Qur'an; He only forbade indiscriminate mingling and mixing and khalwah. The woman is required to wear decent clothes that cover her `awrah (Arabic for: parts of the body that must be covered) and at the same time men are required to lower their gaze.

In his response to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, stated,

It is perfectly fine for you to pray in the same hall as men do as long as it is an open space —provided, of course, there is no indiscriminate mingling.

It is important for us to know that during the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), men and women used to pray in the same hall without any barriers. This is amply clear from the sources. Thus, women were able to see the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and they were able to learn the lessons he imparted from the minbar (Arabic for: pulpit) directly from his mouth. How often we read in the sources women saying that they learned such and such surah (Arabic for: chapter of the Qur'an) directly from the mouth of the Prophet, as he was used to reading them during sermons.Hence, it is only reasonable to state that the barrier separating men and women at mosques today is a later-on innovation; therefore, there is nothing sacred about it.

It is important in this connection to point out that women have every right to see the speaker and imam while delivering the khutbah (Arabic for: sermon).

That the women during the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) were assertive in this is also clear from the sources. For the very idea of setting up a minbar for the Prophet to deliver the khutbah was suggested by a woman. She pointed out to him that she had a carpenter who could carve some wooden steps; if he were to stand on them while delivering sermons, everyone would be able to see him.

Therefore, the right of women to see and hear the speaker directly is a legitimate one. You can continue to pray in the open space without a barrier separating men and women.

Having said this, however, I must also point out that you should have a barrier in front of you to mark your prayer space so that people can pass in front of you, should a need arise. For this purpose, all that is needed is to use a prayer rug or place a book or handbag in front of you. The purpose of it is simply to allow for people to pass in front of the worshipper without distracting him or her.

Faking Marriage & Divorce for Obtaining Green Card

Faking Marriage & Divorce for Obtaining Green Card

Question
As-Salam Alaykum, I am from the Subcontinent and I have a question about marriage and divorce. I came to the United States to set up a business and to become financially well-off. However, I have run into a problem that I cannot get a green card. My question is that would it be permissible for me to divorce my wife from the Subcontinent on paper only so that I can marry an American woman for some time to get the green card ? My intention is to divorce the American woman after I have the green card and remarry my wife from the Subcontinent. Is this permissible in Islam ? ( Question By : Foulan )

Answer
Wa `Alaykum As-Salam Wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

All thanks and praise are due to Allah and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger. Dear questioner! Thanks for your good question which reflects a desire to acquire knowledge and have a clear view of Islamic teachings.

In the very beginning, we would like to stress the fact that Islam aims at creating a stable atmosphere wherein every true believer establishes a stable and good Muslim family. Marriage is meant to be the strong bond of Allah and the lawful means of setting the corner stone of a society.

Brother, you have to keep in mind the fact that marriage contract, in Islam, is so solemn that Shari`ah lays down rules and regulations that guarantee its stability and continuity. Thus, Islam renounces all forms of temporary marriage.

Answering the question in point, the prominent Muslim scholar Dr. Taha Jabir Al-`Alwani, president of the Graduate School of Islamic and Social Sciences and president of the Fiqh Council of North America, (Dr. Al-`Alawani occupies the Imam Al-Shafi’i Chair in Islamic Legal Theory as a professor in his specialty field. Particularly interested in the social implications of Islamic law, he is a major participant in the activities of Muslim social scientists, publishing works such as his Ethics of Disagreement, The Rights of the Accused in Islam, and Linking Ethics and Economics: The Role of Ijtihad, in the Regulation and Correction of Capitol Market (a co-authored occasional paper )states the following:

Allah Almighty declares cheating as prohibited. This applies to any form of cheating, whether to individuals or government. Upon entering the States, you applied for visa. This application is a contract between you and the U.S. government. Being here in the States, you should respect the law and the constitution of the country.

To marry a woman just on papers without having a real intention to establish a family is really an evil deed. Such an act involves telling lies and cheat which are both Haram. Marriage, being a sacred institution, is to be shown due respect and never played with.

At the same time, making paper divorce without having the intention to do so, thinking that this will render the divorce invalid is a total miscalculation, for the divorce is still valid according to the majority of scholars. In the Hadith, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is reported as having said: “Three things are considered valid whether done seriously or jokingly; divorce, marriage and manumitting slaves.”

Even if you find an American lady who accepts such a fake marriage, both of you will be conspiring against the law of the country. You will have only yourself to blame.

I would like to urge all Muslims in the West to be a good examples and representatives of their religion. Muslims are commanded always to be pure and straight forward. In the life of a Muslim, there is no lies, forms of deceit or cheating.”

Wife's Emotional Neglect

Wife's Emotional Neglect

Question
We live about 10 minutes driving distance from the mosque. But whenever my husband decides to go to the prayer, he is usually gone for about an hour. The rest of the day he is at work. I spend most of the time alone up until after `Isha'. I keep telling him that I need to feel the bond of marriage more than this. He knows I am not feeling too well lately, and now mentally this is taking its toll on me. However, he feels there is nothing he can do about this since he has to pray in congregation.

What is your advice to solve this problem? For some reason, I doubt that this was the intent of the Shari`ah for the family. I guess either way one of us feels guilty. What is the right thing to do ?

Answer
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Thanks for your question, and we implore Allah earnestly to guide us all to the best both in this world and in the Hereafter.

Every Muslim husband is ordered by Islam to treat his wife gently and kindly. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "The best among you are the ones who are best to their wives" (At-Tirmidhi). In addition, there is a special consideration to the relationship between the spouses, as Allah says: (And among His Signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): verily in that are Signs for those who reflect) (Ar-Rum 30:21).

With the question in mind, we do call upon the husband to spend more time with his wife and to pray some of his prayers in congregation with her and his children.

Responding to the question, Dr. Sano Koutoub Moustapha, professor of jurisprudence and its principles at the International Islamic University, Malaysia, states the following:

Thank you for your kind question. May Allah bless you and your beloved husband.
Surely congregational prayer is strongly recommended for both males and females. Some scholars do consider it a communal obligation or fard kifayah. Yet, it is definitely an obligation upon husbands to give the rights to their spouses, especially in responding to their emotional and psychological needs, such as spending time with them. In this context, I call upon your beloved husband to spend more time with you and to avoid staying longer in the mosque after praying.

Since prayers take only 10 to 15 minutes, there is therefore no reason for spending hours at the mosque after prayer. Spending time at the mosque is considered optional or recommended; while staying and spending time with the spouse is considered an obligation.
Based on this, I remind your beloved husband that in Islam, obligations come first. In other words, spending enough time with you is considered an obligation upon him. Therefore, he has to refrain from spending longer time outside the house, especially after prayers. Furthermore, there is no harm or prohibition for him to perform some of his prayers with you at home. Thus if you pray together, this prayer is actually considered as a congregational prayer, especially when you have children who can join you in congregational prayer.

Finally, your husband is also advised to to bring you along with him to the mosque in order for you to be able to gain the rewards of the congregational prayer. It is very unfortunate that some Muslims nowadays have decided to exclude Muslim women from congregational prayer while at the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) Muslim women were attending all congregational prayers, especially Fajr Prayer, regardless of the darkness of the night.

Women Praying in Mosques

Women Praying in Mosques

Question
As-Salamu `alaykum, please kindly explain as to which is most preferable for a woman: to pray alone in her house or to follow the congregation in the Mosque.

Answer
Wa`alykum As-Salaamu Warahmatullahi Wabarakaatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.
Dear questioner, we would like to commend you for showing keenness on knowing the teachings of Islam. We hope our efforts meet your expectations.

There is no any hindrance for women to pray in the Mosques along with men. At the time of the Prophet, women used to perform prayers in the Mosque along with men. Not only that, but they used to attend religious classes and share the events such as the `Eid prayers with men. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said, “Do not prevent the she-servants of Allah from Allah's mosques.”

Responding to the question, Sheikh Yusuf al-Qaradawi, states the following:
Women used to attend the jama`ah or congregational Prayers and the Friday Prayers in the Prophet's Mosque. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to urge them to stand in the last rows behind men.

At the beginning, men and women used to enter through the same door. When this caused overcrowding on entrances and exits, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him, said: "(It would be better) if this door is left for women." Upon saying so, the men made that door for women, and it became known up until today as "The Women's Door".

Moreover, women, at the time of the Prophet, used to attend the Friday Prayer; they used to perform the Prayer regularly and listen to the khutbah to the extent that one of them could recite Surat Qaf as she heard the Prophet recite it several times in the Friday khutbah. Women also used to attend the `Eid Prayers and participate in that big Islamic festival that included the old and the young, men as well as women, out in the open, all worshipping Allah.
Umm `Attiyyah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated, "We used to be ordered to come out on the Day of the `Eid and even bring out the virgin girls from their houses and menstruating women so that they might stand behind the men and say takbir along with them and invoke Allah along with them and hope for the blessings of that day and for purification from sins." (Reported by Al-Bukhari)

Moreover, women used to attend religious sermons with men at the Prophet's house and they used to inquire about religious matters that many women nowadays would find embarrassing to ask about. For instance, `A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) praised the women of Al-Ansar for trying to understand their religion without being held back by bashfulness for they used to ask about such matters as major ritual impurity, wet dream, purificatory bath, menstruation, chronic vaginal discharge, etc.

And when women found that men's questions were taking most of the Prophet's time, they plainly requested the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to make a special day for women. So the Prophet dedicated a day for them when he used to give them lessons and sermons. (Narrated by Al-Bukhari)

Shedding more light on the issue, Dr. Muzammil H. Siddiqi, president of the Fiqh Council of North America, adds:

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) explicitly told men not to exclude women from going to the Mosque. It is reported that the wife of `Umar Ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) used to attend the congregational Prayer in the Mosque at Fajr and `Ishaa' Prayers. It was said to her, "Why do you leave home, you know that `Umar does not like that and he feels ashamed (that you leave home at that time)?" She said, "So what prevents him from stopping Me?" The person said, "It is the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) 'Do not prevent the she-servants of Allah from Allah's Mosques.'" (Reported by Al-Bukhari)

It is not obligatory for women to attend the jama`ah or congregational Prayers at the Mosque, because they have other obligations as regards their home and children. However, if they have time and feel safe to attend the Mosque, in proper Islamic dress, then they should not be stopped.

We should rather make our Mosques in such a way that men and women both have equal chance to pray there observing the rules of Prayers.

Some people, in voicing objection against women going to the Mosque, rely on what `A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said in this regard. She is quoted to have said, sometime after the Prophet’s death: "If the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) would have seen what the women do now, he would have stopped them from coming to Mosques."

But the great scholar of Hadith Ibn Hajar states: "This statement does not say very clearly that `A'ishah gave the Fatwa that women are forbidden to come to Mosques." (Fath Al-Bari, p. 928).

It is not known that any Companion of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) or a prominent jurist forbade women from attending the prayers in the Mosque. The custom of preventing women from attending the Mosques started later in times. This unfortunately has negative impact on many of our sisters, drawing them backward and making them ignorant of their faith.

Women in the West go everywhere. They are in the markets, in malls, in restaurants, and in offices. It is ironic that some men allow them to go to all the places of temptation, but they want to stop them from coming to the places where they can pray to their Lord and learn about their faith.

Mixed Gatherings for Weddings

Mixed Gatherings for Weddings

Question
Dear scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. What is the ruling on men and women being together for weddings? Jazakum Allah khayran. ( Question By : Muslim - Belgium )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake.

Islam does not object to events or gatherings where members of the opposite sex are present in the same place as long as all abide by the Islamic teachings and manners. If such gatherings abide by the Shari`ah rulings, then there is nothing wrong with them. What is forbidden is khalwah (seclusion or between two members of the opposite sex); tabarruj (revealing women's attractions and `awrahs and all other forbidden acts such as seductive talk or walk); and physical contact between members of the opposite sex. Therefore, if the mixed wedding sticks to these instructions, it is allowed. But if people do not abide by these conditions—which is common nowadays—then the presence of men and women in the same place is unlawful.

Responding to the question you raised, the European Council for Fatwa and Research issued the following fatwa:

The term “mixed” is one which is not used by either the Qur’an or the Sunnah, while most people believe it to be an unquestionable matter in Islam, as though there were something in the Qur’an or in the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) that states clearly that mixed congregations are haram (forbidden). This is one of the grave mistakes which many Muslims commit today, unfortunately.

Our opinion in this matter is that Islamic Shari`ah did not object to men and women being present in one place on condition that three matters are avoided and refrained from:

First: Seclusion (khalwah), that is, that a man and woman meet in a place where no one else can see them.

Second: Adornment of women, that is, that a woman uncovers what Allah (Mighty and Exalted be He) decreed to be covered of her body, or she wears perfume or jewelry or walks or talks in such a way that draws attention and raises ill-thoughts and feelings.Third: Physical contact.If these three matters are avoided and refrained from, then there remains no legal objection to the congregation, whether it be a marriage ceremony or any other thing else. However, we see that people often do not abide by these conditions in weddings, and thus the presence of men and women in one place becomes unlawful.

Internet Chats Between Males and Females

Internet Chats Between Males and Females

Question
Respected scholars, As-Salamu `alaykum. Many teens seek out boy/girlfriends online, and have actually dated. Furthermore many Muslims are using online chats to seek friends and chat, but as we all know most men and women are seeking more than just friends. They are possibly looking for a future wife or husband. What is the Islamic stance on that ? ( Question Muslimah - United States )

Answer
Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear sister in Islam, you have raised a very important question, which reflects what is common nowadays among youth, or, rather, what has become a vogue on which majority don't even bother to know what are the restrictions dictated by religion, in order to preserve morality in the society. Thanks to the sophisticated means of modern communication, everyone finds himself at the mercy of all what is new in technology.Thus, it's very important for Muslim youth to know where he stands, and to always keep in mind that, as he is given full right to make use of any golden opportunity offered by modern technology, he is also required not to forget the duty he owes the Mighty Power that subjects to Him all such avenues of comfort and prosperity. He must not deviate, whatsoever, from the teachings of his religion, in order to preserve his noble identity.

Answering the questions you raised, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former President of the Islamic Society of North America, states:

You have raised a number of serious questions. First is the question about the Internet chats between males and females. Second is about seeking a matrimonial partner - husband or wife - in this way and talking to the future spouse.Internet chat is very similar to writing letters or talking to someone on phone. Actually it is a combination of both. Muslims have to observe the same rules as they observe in writing letters or making telephone calls. Islam does not permit love letters or intimate conversations between males and females who are not married to each other.In all our correspondence and conversations we must observe haya' or modesty. Boys and girls should not chat with each other just for socialization or passing time. It is haram (unlawful) for a non-mahram Muslim male and female to indulge in long conversations with each other unless it is necessary for education or for business. All conversation must be decent. The Qur'an reminds us again and again that all our words are recorded and we shall be held accountable for our words as well as our deeds on the Day of Judgment. (See Al-Ahzab 33:70; Qaf 50:18)If one finds an interesting partner through Internet and there is a desire to know more about each other in order to get married, then one should involve one's elders in this matter. Let the elders or some responsible friends do the investigation and negotiation on your behalf. Even when you want to talk to that person, it is good to have an elder present in this chat. In Islam the khalwah (privacy) with the non-mahram female (ajnabiyyah) is forbidden. Khalwah of course occurs when a male and a female are alone in person. But a virtual khalwah can also happen through conversation by phone or Internet. Just as men and women should not be alone with each other, in a similar way they should not be alone to talk to each other on phone or via Internet chat, especially if this conversation is about personal matters.

Any communication or chatting between a man and a woman if not for a good cause, it will be a possibility for the cause of Shaytan (Satan). One should always ask him/herself why do I want to write to that man/woman or to talk to him/her? The answer will be helpful to take action. Keep far away from desire as Satan has very complicated approaches to insinuate you deviate from righteousness.