Saturday, December 30, 2006

'Eidul-Adha: A Symbol of Obedience

Gyasi Abu Umar McKenzie


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


‘Eid Al-Adha is preceded by the glorious day of 'Arafah and is one of the important days of Hajj. The main theme and messages of Hajj are willfully submission and obedience in complete peace to Allah Subhanahu wa Ta`ala. In the remarkable stories of Prophet Ibrahim, Prophet Isma'il, and Hajar, [`alaihissalam] we witness extraordinary examples of obedience and submission to Allah Subhanahu wa ta`ala, which is the core meaning of Islam. In fact, submission is the very meaning of the word "Islam". Thus the meaning and essence of Islam are manifested in Hajj, which reminds us of our mission and purpose in life.

'Eid Al-Adha is a symbol of obedience. It signifies submission to Allah Almighty. On this day, we commemorate together the acts of obedience and submission performed by Prophet Ibrahim a.s and his family when he was commanded to take Hajar and their son Isma'il to an uninhabited, barren, distant land and leave them there alone. He submitted and obeyed. When Hajar realized what was happening, she cried out, "Ibrahim! Are you going to leave us in this valley where no people live?" She repeated the question yet she received no answer, so she asked him,

"Did Allah orders you to do this?" He replied, "Yes." So she said, "Then Allah will not let us perish." Thus she submitted.

When his son Isma'il became older, Ibrahim ('alaihissalam) had a dream that Allah s.w.t commanded him to sacrifice him. He duly submitted it as Allah’s command and informed his son and his son obediently accepted it. But Allah replace it with a lamb to performed a sacrifice. The family of Ibrahim was a family of obedience and submission. They were tested and tried again and again, but the result was always submission and obedience; “I hear I obey”. This is the syiar (testimony, message) of the Hajj and Eidil Adha.

Both the 'Eid Al-Adha and 'Eid Al-Fitr come after performing a pillar of Islam and an act of obedience. Hence 'Eid Al-Adha and 'Eid Al-Fitr are annual reminders that this life is a test and we must be obedient if we wish to be successful. Once a year, Muslims of every ethnic group, social status, and culture are reminded and given the message:  Surrender to Allah, submit to Allah. Are we hearing this message?

Just as Prophet Ibrahim a.s was tested throughout his life to see if he would submit or not, we will also be tested to see whether we submit or refuse ourselves to Allah's commands! Know that toils, struggles, and hardships will accompany our quest to obedience. If we obey, we will be in the company of the likes of Prophet Ibrahim a.s and his family in Paradise, as Allah says:

“All who obey Allah S.W.T and the messenger shall dwell in the company of those whom Allah S.W.T has favored with His Grace: the prophets, the sincere lovers of Truth, the martyrs, and the Righteous who do good. Ah! What a beautiful companionship!”

[An-Nisaa' 4:69]

'Eid contains many wonderful messages among which is that 'Eid is an external expression of the testimony of faith "Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah," which means to follow Muhammad in his commandments, abstain from all that he has forbidden, believe in all that he has informed us of, and worship Allah with only that which he has prescribed. Allah says:

“Say: Obey Allah S.W.T and obey the Messenger, but if you turn away, he is only responsible for the duty placed on him and you for that placed on you. If you obey Him, you shall be on the right guidance. The Messenger's duty is only to convey [the message] in a clear way.”

[An-Nur 24:54]

Consequently if you truly desire Paradise, all that is required of you is obedience because the Prophet has guaranteed Paradise for whoever that follows him: "All of my nation will enter Paradise except those who refuse." His Companions said, "Who would refuse?" He answered, "Whoever obeys me enters Paradise and whoever disobeys me has refused."

[Al-Bukhari].

Likewise, Allah warns us throughout the Qur'an of the consequences of choosing to disobey Him. For example Allah says:

“And whosoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, and transgresses His limits, He will cast him into the Fire, to abide therein; and he shall have a disgraceful torment.”

[An-Nisaa' 4:14]

And among the messages of 'Eid is that all Muslims are one people and one brotherhood; we gather together for the prayer and shares the blessings of the `Eid. During these days we must try extra hard to strengthen our brotherhood and mend our differences upon the truth.

Muslim youth, take the opportunity of 'Eid to be kind to your parents, and know that obedience to your parents is obedience to Allah provided that it is free of disobedience to Allah. Stay away from alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs, for they destroy the heart, the intellect, and the society.

Women, witness the 'Eid Prayer without displaying and flaunting your beauty or wearing perfumes. Fear Allah s.w.t in regards to your dress code and know that the dress code of the Muslim woman is an honor, not oppression. The dress code is that your clothing should cover your entire body apart from the hands and face; it should not be adorned and attractive in and of itself; it should be loose and opaque. This dress code is to be observed in the masjids as well as in all public gathering places.

We Muslims should take action now toward improving our obedience and submission to Allah, for time is limited. Remember the ones who prayed with us in the last 'Eid Prayer and ones who have now passed away. We will certainly join them one day. Do not therefore be tricked by the life of this world in which happiness does not last. Death spoils the people's pleasure. Therefore, consider this world a place of work toward the hereafter. As Allah says concerning the pursuit of Paradise:

“And whoever desires the Hereafter and strives for it as he ought to strive and he is a believer; (as for) these, their striving shall surely be accepted.”

[Al-Israa' 17:19]

And Allah says:

“And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty.”

[Al-Hijr 15:99]

Allah states that our obedience and submission must be constant and continuous. So hasten to do good deeds before you regret your negligence and failure to act. No one could delay their death until the time they choose to submit and obey Allah. Ibrahim submitted, Isma'il submitted, Hajar submitted, and now we must submit. What are we waiting for? This is the message of Hajj; this is the message of 'Eid. We have heard the message. It's time to submit.

[Via Islam online December 26, 2006]

Solat 'Eidul Adha

The Solāt of  Eidul Adha 
 
In the Name of Allāh, Most Gracious, Most Merciful;
All praise and thanks are due to Allāh, and May Allāh blessings and peace be upon His Messenger.

At the end of the Hajj, Muslims throughout the world celebrate the holiday of Eid al-Adha [Festival of Sacrifice]. On this occasion two important rituals are conducted, the Solāt Eidul-Adha and the Sacrifice.

The Solāt of 'Eidul-Adha as the Solāt ‘Eidil-Fitri is a Sunnah Mu’akad. It is strongly required and an important tradition in Islam and the Prophet Muhammad (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) never neglected it. He is reported to have ordered the men, women and children to proceed to the 'Eid prayer ground. Even menstruating women are encouraged to go to the 'Eid ground but they should keep away from the actual place of prayer.

Self Preparation

It is highly recommended to have Sunnah bath [ghusul] and to put on the most beautiful dresses and the best perfumes one can obtain. Prophet Muhammad (Sallallāhu 'alayhi wa sallam) used to do so. There is also a tradition that one should eat something before going to the 'Eid prayer and possibly.

Time

The time for 'Eid ul Adha is when the sun has risen two meters (7 ft.) above the horizon and the time for 'Eidil- Fitr is while the sun has risen to three meters (10 ft.) above the horizon. 'Eid prayers cannot be said after midday.

Place

it is better to hold 'Eid prayers in an open place or ground if there is no obstacle like rain or bad weather. The Prophet never performed 'Id prayers in the mosque except once due to rain.

No Adzan, No Iqamah

There is neither Adzan nor Iqamah for 'Eid prayers.

Performance of 'Eid Solāt

'Eid prayer consists of two Rak'ah with twelve takbīrs, Allāhu Akbar, seven in the first Rak'ah and five in the second. In the first Rak'ah just after Takbīratul Ihram, say seven Takbīrs lifting your hands with each Takbīr and after finishing seven Takbīrs go on with prayer in the usual way (Imam reading al-Fātihah and surah aloud.) In the beginning of the second Rak'at say five Takbīrs in the usual way. There is no special Dzikir between Takbīrs – but one would say Subhanallah Walhamdu Lillahi Wa Lā Ilāha Illalla Wallāhu Akbar.

Khutbah

After performing the Salāt, the Imam must deliver a khutbah just like al-Juma'at khutbah. But Imam Nawawi and some other scholars say that the khutbah of 'Id is not broken up into two parts with a period of sitting in between.

Returning home

On returning home from the salāt, it is recommended to take a different route than that which was taken to the prayer.

Takbir

Muslims is strongly required to repeat in a loud voice the Takbīr on the way to the Congregation and Eid Solāt and while waiting for the imam:

ALLĀH U AKBAR,
ALLĀH U AKBAR,
ALLĀH U AKBAR,
LA ILAHAILLA HU WALLĀH U AKBAR,
ALLĀH U AKBAR WA LILLAHIL HAMD

Imam or the leader will continue to say:

ALLĀH U AKBAR KABIRA,
WALHAMDULILLAHI KASIRA
WASUBHANALA HIWABUKRATAU WAASILA

LA ILAHAILLA HUWALA NA’BUDU ‘IYYA HUMUKHLISI NALAHUDDIN
WALAUKARIHAL KAAFIRUN
WALAUKARIHAL MUSHRIKUN
LA ILAHAILLA HUWAHDAH
SADAQAWA'DAH
WANASARA`ABDAH
WAA`AZZAJUNDAHU WAHAZAMALAHZA BAWAHDAH

LA ILAHAILLA HU WALLĀH U AKBAR
ALLĀHU AKBAR  WA LILLAHIL HAMD.

One also recommended to Takbīr after every congregational prayer starting from the Fajar, (Dawn prayer) on the day of Wukuf in Arafat on 9th Dzul Hijjah, to the 'Asar (afternoon prayer) on the last of the Days of Tashriq (the thirteenth day of Dzul-Hijjah). For the Pilgrims, the starting time is after the completion Jamrah-al-Aqabah of the Day of Nahr, 10th of Dzul-Hijjah).

This takbir applies to both the 'Eid ul Adha and ‘Eidul Fitri.

No Zakatul Fitr for Eidul Adha

Zakatul Fitr is obligatory for every Muslim man and woman, adult and child before 'Eidul Fitri only and NOT Eidul Adha. Zakatul Fitr is meant to purify the fasting (Saum) and to keep everybody in society happy and pleasant - rich and poor equally - so that nobody should go hungry on that day. Thus, it presents a magnificent example of comprehensive social justice in Islam.

Sacrificial Slaughter (udhiyah)

Udhiyah or sacrificial slaughter is done during 'Eidul Adha and is a sunnah mu’akad. It reflects the fact that the Muslim being a committed, as obedient servant of Allāh is always ready to sacrifice anything, even his life, in Allāh’s way. Udhhiyah is remembrances of the obedience of great sacrifice that Prophet Ibrahim a.s submitted to God by attempting to sacrifice his own son, Isma'il, to fulfil the command of Allāh Almighty.

The Essentials of Sacrifice

i) To say Allāh’s name: Bismillah Allāhu Akbar on commencing the slaughtering.

ii) Udhhiyah cannot be slaughtered before 'Eid prayer. It should be done immediately after prayers and on the three days after 'Eid: Dzul Hijjah 11, 12, 13.

iii) Udhhiyah can be a goat, sheep, cow, bull, buffalo or camel of either sex. Pregnant female animals should not be slaughtered. Seven persons can share in the last named four animals.

iv)  The meat of the slaughtered animal should be divided into three parts. It is essential to give away to the Muslims: one third as gift to the poor and the needy, one third should be given to friends and relatives and one third kept to oneself.

v) For one who intends to make the sacrificial slaughter it is Sunnah not to shave his hair or clip his nails after Dzul Hijjah moon is sighted, until the time of slaughter. (Sahih Muslim)

Enjoyment in 'Eid Days

Islam urges us to enjoy life with every lawful means of enjoyment. Especially on 'Eid days the Islamic spirit of enjoyment and brotherhood becomes manifest. Thus Islam nourishes the spiritual aspirations of mankind along with its physical abilities.

On these days everyone should be happy with his family, his wife, his children, his Muslim brothers and sisters. Show mutual concern by exchanging gifts, smiling on the face of each other and expressing sincere love and affection to show the bondage of real brotherhood which stems from the belief in Allāh . All Muslims should cherish brotherly feeling in their hearts toward each other, avoid talking behind each other's backs, avoid blaming one another and avoid causing disruption in the Muslim community.

These are the days when we should glorify Allāh and observe His signs to have piety in our hearts.

[Via MSA]

Friday, December 29, 2006

Chronology of Prophet’s Farewell Hajj II


11. ENTERING MAKKAH.
Sunday 4-12-10 A.H. 1-3-632 A.C.

1. The Prophet SAW set off for Makkah, and entered it by way of the upper hill overlooking Al-Hajun. Then, he proceeded until he entered Makkah before noon. He finally reached the door of the Sacred Mosque where he knelt his she-camel and entered through Abd Manaf Gate which people call Banu Shaibah Gate.

2. He looked at Ka'abah, turned his face towards it, raised his hands and said, “O Allah! You are the source of peace. From You comes peace. O Allah! Greet us with peace. O Allah! Endow this House with more honor, dignity and respect, and grant all those who come to it for Hajj or `Umrah honor, dignity, respect and piety."

3. In another narration Prophet SAW said, "O Allah! Grant Your House more honor, dignity respect, righteousness and solemnity." He went directly to the House without performing doing Sunnah solat two raka`ahs as a salutation to the mosque, for the salutation to the Sacred Mosque is, in fact, to perform Circumambulation.

i. Tawaf
Sunday 4-12-10 A.H. 1-3-632 A.C.

1. He laid his gown over his right shoulder while leaving the other uncovered. The Prophet SAW began Circumambulation by touching the Black Stone without shoving others there, and his eyes began to flow with tears.

2. After making four rounds, he kissed the Stone, put his hands on it, then kissed his hands and rubbed them over his face.

3. In the Circumambulation, he jogged from and to the Black Stone three times. And He walked fast taking short steps.

4. Every time he passed the Black Stone, he would touch it with a stick and then kiss the stick. Upon touching it, he would say, "In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest."

5. The Prophet SAW said to `Umar bin Al-Khattab r.a "O 'Umar! You are a stout man. Do not push others while at the Black Stone lest you may hurt a weak person. But if you find an opportunity to reach it in order to kiss it or touch it, do it. If not, turn your face towards it and say, 'Here I am at Your service and Allah is the Greatest'."

6. Between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone, the Prophet SAW is reported as saying the following inclusive supplication: Our Lord! Grant us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and defend us from the torment of the Fire.

7. Having finished his Circumambulation, the Prophet SAW went to the Station of Abraham near the Ka'abah and recited, "And adopt the Station of Abraham as a place of Prayer." He stood at a place where the Station was between him and the House and performed two raka'ats. In the first he recited Al-Fatihah then Surah Al-Kafirun, and in the second raka'ah he recited Al-Fatihah followed by Surah Al-Ikhlas.

8. Concluding his Prayer, he returned to the Black Stone and kissed it. Then he went out through the Banu Makhzum Gate, which is against Al-Safa Hill, to start Sa`ie.

9. The Prophet SAW did not shove to get to the Black Stone, nor did he exceed it to the Yemeni Corner, or raise his hands, or say, "I have intended my Circumambulation this week to be this way or that." Moreover, he did not begin it with Takbir as is the case regarding Prayer.

10. The Prophet SAW neither passed his hands over the Black Stone, nor did he supplicate at the gate or at the back of the Ka'abah. Neither did he dedicate the time of Circumambulation for a certain supplication, nor did he enjoin others to do this. So, people should be cautious of what ignorant people do.

ii. Sa'ie
Sunday 4-12-10 A.H. 1-3-632 A.C.

When he approached Al-Safa he recited "Behold! Al-Safa and Al-Marwah are among the symbols of Allah. So if those who visit the House in the seasons or at other times should compass them round, it is no sin on them. And if any one obeys his own impulse to do good be sure that Allah is He Who recognizes and knows."

He said, "I begin with what Allah began." He ascended Al-Safa until he saw the House. Facing the Qiblah he declared the Oneness of Allah and said, "There is no god but Allah. Allah is the Greatest." He also said, "There is no god but Allah alone, Who fulfilled His promise, helped His servant and alone defeated the Confiderates."

In his Sa'ie, the Prophet said, "Al-Abtah can be crossed only through strain." He said so just to urge people to keep up a fast pace. People were in front of him and he was to their rear pacing so fast that his knees could be seen. Jogging at the bottom of the valley, he said, "O Allah! Grant us pardon and mercy; You are the Mighty, the Glorious." The people crowded around him saying, "This is Muhammad." Even young girls came out of their houses to see him. So, the site became overcrowded with people, and the Prophet mounted his camel. People were not beaten away before the Prophet (to clear a space for him). He mounted his she-camel, Al-Qaswa', and went on performing his Sa'ie. The Prophet was seen uncovering one shoulder and wrapping the other with a Najrani garb during Sa'ie between Al-Safa and Al-Marwah. It is narrated that upon reaching Al-Marwah, the Prophet turned his face towards the House and said, "Allah alone is the Greatest," and did as he had done on Al-Safa.

iii. Annulment Command
Sunday 4-12-10 A.H. 1-3-632 A.C.


1. The Prophet SAW gave his Companions the choice to convert their intention from Hajj to `Umrah. Upon completing his Sa'ie, he commanded his Companions to remove their Ihram; that they may have intercourse with their wives, apply perfume, wear sewn clothes and remain in this state until the day of Al-Tarwiah (the 8th of Dzul- Hijjah).

2. The Prophet SAW did not remove his Ihram because he had brought a sacrificial animal with him from Medina. Thus, everyone removed Ihram except the Prophet SAW and those having sacrificial animals; and among them were Abu Bakr, 'Umar, and Talhah and Al-Zubair r.a.

3. Regarding the women in the Prophet's company, they all removed Ihram except 'A'ishah because her monthly period delayed her from removing her Ihram. Having no sacrificial animal, Fatimah, daughter of the Prophet SAW, removed the Ihram.

4. 'Ali bin Abi Talib came from Yemen with a sacrificial animal and found Fatimah r.a among those who had removed Ihram, put on dyed clothes, and applied Kohl. 'Ali showed his disapproval of this. Whereupon, she said, "My father has commanded me to do so."

5. 'Ali asked the Prophet SAW regarding what she had said. The Prophet said, "She told the truth; she told the truth. I commanded her to do so."

6. 'Ali had put on Ihram while he was in Yemen saying, "O Allah! I put on Ihram for the same purpose your Prophet has put it on."

7. Abu Musa was one of those who came with 'Ali from Yemen, but he drove no sacrificial animal. Thereupon, the Prophet SAW commanded him to remove the Ihram after he had circumambulated and jogged between Al-Safa and Al-Marwah. So he converted his Ihram for Hajj into `Umrah and therefore continued on Hajj to 'Umrah.

iv. The Sermon

Sunday 4-12-10 A.H. 1-3-632 A.C.

1. It came to the ears of the Prophet SAW that some people were saying, "We have proceeded intending to perform Hajj only. When we came to the Prophet, he commanded us to make it `Umrah, and to have intercourse with our wives. We reached Mina in a state as if we had just had intercourse".

2. Having finished his Sa'ie, Allah's Messenger SAW stood among the people and said, "I have learned that some people say so and so. By Allah, I am more righteous and God-fearing than they. If I were to know what this matter of mine would come to, I would not have brought sacrificial animals with me. Whoever, among you, has no sacrificial animal should remove Ihram for Hajj and make Ihram for 'Umrah." So people at large removed their Ihram.

3. While he was at the bottom of the valley, Suraqah bin Malik bin Ja'tham said, "O Prophet of Allah, is it (this conversion of Hajj into'Umrah) meant only for this year or is it forever? The Prophet intertwined his fingers and said, "It is forever, forever, forever." "'Umrah," he added, "has been joined with Hajj until the Day of Judgment".

4. Jabir bin 'Abdullah reported, "We accompanied the Prophet of Allah SAW on the fifth day of Dzul-Hijjah. We were in the state of Ihram for Hajj; but he commanded us to make it 'Umrah. This (removal of Ihram for Hajj) was so hard for us to bear. When this attitude of ours came to the Prophet's knowledge, he said, 'O people! Remove your Ihram. Had not I had a sacrificial animal, I would have done what you did. 'We did so and went to our wives for intercourse as one not in the state of Ihram might do."

5. On the day of Al-Tarwiah, we went outside Makkah and proclaimed Talbiah for Hajj.

v. The Stay in Makkah [Al-Abtah]

Thursday 8-12-10 A.H. 5-3-632 A.C.

1. Upon completing his Sa'ie between Al-Safa and Al-Marwah and having made his command for those having no sacrificial animals to convert their Ihram, the Prophet SAW proceeded with the people until they reached Al-Abtah, on the eastern side of Makkah. He stayed in a red tent pitched for him where he spent the remaining hours of Sunday, all Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday until he performed the Morning Prayer on Thursday.

2. The Prophet of Allah SAW spent this time at Al-Abtah, and there he led his Companions in performing the Noon, Afternoon and Night Prayers in their shortened forms. Furthermore, he did not return to the Ka'abah on these days.

3. Meantime, Bilal SAW used to announce Adzan and fix a spear for the Prophet SAW to turn to in Prayer, and people were led by him in Prayer. Dogs and donkeys passed behind that spear.

4. Upon ending Prayer, people would stand and begin to put his hand upon their faces. A Companion said, "I took his hand and put it on my face. I found it cooler than ice and more fragrant than musk."

12. HEADING FOR MINA [DAY OF AL-TARWIAH]

Thursday 8-12-10 A.H. 5-3-632 A.C.


1-In the afternoon of the day preceding the Day of Tarwiah, the Prophet delivered a sermon in Makkah.

2-Then the Prophet SAW headed for Mina on Thursday before noon together with the Muslims accompanying him. Those who had removed their Ihram and did not enter the mosque now put on their Ihram for Hajj with Makkah behind them.

3- In Mina the Prophet stopped, performed Noon and Afternoon Prayers and spent Friday night. Then he performed the Dawn Prayer and stayed until the sun rose. Afterwards, the Messenger of Allah SAW proceeded from Mina to `Arafah. When his she-camel moved along, he said, "O Allah! Let this be an accepted Hajj, free of ostentation and showing off."

4- The Prophet SAW took a bypass to the right of the road trodden by people nowadays. Among the Companions, there was some saying Talbiah, others saying Takbir, and the Prophet showed no disaproval to either of them.

13. 'ARAFAH

Friday 9-12-10 A.H. 6-3-632 A.C.

1. In the Pre-Islamic period, the Quraish used to halt at the Sacred Monument. When the Prophet of Allah SAW moved from Mina to Namirah, he found that a tent had been pitched for him. There he stayed until the sun declined towards the west. He then commanded that his she-camel, Al-Qaswa', be brought and saddled for him. He rode to the bottom of the Valley of 'Arafah, stood at the rocks and said, "All 'Arafah is equally good as a stopping place (on this particular day) except the bottom of the valley called 'Uranah."

i. The Sermon
2. The Prophet SAW delivered a great sermon. As Rabi'ah bin Umaiah bin Khalaf Al-Jumahi, who had a loud voice, was appointed to repeat after the Prophet SAW to convey Prophet's words to the people. From atop his she-camel The Prophet said to him, "Raise your voice and say: O people! Allah's Messenger SAW says: Do you know what month it is? ...etc."

After praising, and thanking God, this is what the Allah Messenger said:

"O People! Lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year, I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefore listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and take these words to those who could not be present here today.

"O people! Verily your blood and your property are as sacred and inviolable as the sacredness of this day of yours, in this month of yours, in this city of yours. Verily you will meet your Lord, Who will ask you about your deeds. I have conveyed the message.

If anyone among you is given a thing on trust, the trustee must faithfully discharge his trust. Behold! Everything pertaining to the Days of Ignorance is under my feet and completely abolished. The first claim for blood-revenge which I abolish is that of Ibn Abi Rabi'ah bin Al-Harith bin 'Abdul-Muttalib who was wet-nursed in the tribe of Sa'ad bin Bakar and killed by Huzail. All forms of usury are abolished. You will have your capital sums; deal not unjustly, and you will not be dealt with unjustly. Allah has judged that no usury (is legal). And the first form of usury which I abolish is that of Al-'Abbas bin 'Abdul-Muttalib. It is all abolished.

Now then, O people! The Devil has forever lost hope of being worshipped in this land of yours. But if he sought something else, he would be content with the deeds that you consider trivial. So ward him away from your religion.

O people! Verily the transposing [of a prohibited month] is an addition to the Unbelief; Unbelievers are led to the wrong thereby, for they make it lawful one year, and forbidden another year to adjust the number of months forbidden by Allah and make such forbidden ones lawful and make the lawful ones forbidden. Verily time has rotated as the day on which Allah created heavens and earth. The year is twelve months as ordained by Allah the day He created the heaven and the earth, of which four are Sacred. Three are consecutive: Dzulkaedah, Dzulhijjah and Muharram, and Rajab that is between Jamadilakhir and Sha'ban].

O People! Fear Allah concerning women! It is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah's trust and with His permission. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. They have obligations towards you, and you have obligations towards them as well. Their obligation towards you is that they should not allow anyone, whom you do not like, as well as never to be unchaste. Also their obligation is that they should not display lewd behavior. But if they do, Allah has permitted you to desert them in beds, beat them but not severely. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness and fitting manner.

O people! Mind my words! Verily I have conveyed the message. I have left behind me two things [in another narration: a clear thing] for you; in case you hold fast to, you will never go astray: the Book of Allah, Exalted and Almighty, and the Sunnah [Tradition] of His Prophet.

O people! Listen and mind my words! All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor does a black have any superiority over white except by piety and good action.Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves. And be aware that hearts never harbor malignity as long as there are three (things): performing good deeds for the sake of Allah, Exalted and Almighty, offering sincere advice to those charged with authority, and adherence to the Muslim community, for the blessing of their supplication reaches whoever belongs to them. He who makes this world his sole concern, Allah will make his poverty fixed to his eyes and scatter his property. He will get nothing but that which Allah has decreed for him. [And he who makes the Hereafter his sole concern, Allah will put his richness in his heart and make him content with his property. Hence, the worldly bounties will come to him at his order.]

[Pay attention to] your slaves, [pay attention to] your slaves; feed them from what you eat, clothe them with what you wear. If they commit a sin that you refuse to forgive, sell the slaves of Allah and plague them not with torture.

I enjoin you to do good to your neighbors . . . He [the narrator said that the Prophet] repeated this command so often that we thought that he would give the neighbor a defined share in inheritance.

O people! Allah has given every one his due. No legacy should be made for an heir. Parentage is proven by legal marriage. And stoning is the penalty of a fornicator. He who claims parentage to someone other than his father or claims loyalty to someone other than his true master, is cursed by Allah, the Angels, and people at large; from both of them Allah will accept neither forgiveness nor compensation. Loan must be repaid. Donation must be returned. Debt must be settled. A guarantor must fulfill his commitment.

Now then, verily polytheists and pagans used to start walking from this exact position by sunset until the sun was over the top of mountains like turbans over the heads of men. Our sacrificial rite is different from theirs. They used to start walking from the Sacred Monument when the sun rose over the tops of mountains like turbans over the heads of men. They used to say, "O Sun! Rise from behind Mount Thabir so as to hasten our march. However, Allah delayed this and moved forward that, [i.e. moved forward setting off for Muzdalifah until sunrise and delayed leaving 'Arafah until sunset]. As for us, we do not move away from 'Arafah until sunset and from Muzdalifah until sunrise. Besides, our offering is different from that of pagans and polytheists.

May Allah have mercy upon all people who hears and minds my words and communicates them to others? For there may be one who has knowledge but who is not knowledgeable; and there may be one who perceives knowledge better than the one who conveys it.

O people! You will be asked about me by Allah Almighty, what will you say? He then raised his forefinger towards the sky, pointed towards the people and said: Be my witness, O Allah! Be my witness, O Allah! That I have conveyed your message and discharged [the Prophethood] and given [wise and sincere] counsel to your people."

3. After the Prophet SAW delivered the 'Arafah Sermon, Bilal declared Adzan, then Iqamah, and the Prophet SAW led the Zuhur, Noon Prayer, performing two raka'ats. Then, another Iqamah was declared and the Prophet SAW led the Asar, Afternoon Prayer, performing two raka'ats. Between these two Prayers, the Prophet performed no supererogatory prayers, and during them he sub vocalized recitation.

4. The Messenger of Allah SAW then mounted his camel and came to the place where he was to stay. He turned his she-camel, Al-Qaswa', towards the rocks, with the pedestrian path in front of him, and there he turned his face towards the Qiblah.

ii. Standing at 'Arafah

Friday 9-12-10 A.H. 6-3-632 A.C.


1. The Prophet SAW stayed there until the sun set. The disk of the sun totally disappeared and the yellow lights diminished somewhat. In this position, Allah, Exalted and Almighty, sent down the following verse, "This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion."

2. People had doubts whether the Messenger of Allah SAW was fasting or not. Thereupon, while the Prophet was standing at `Arafah, Umm Al-Fadl and Maimunah r.a sent him a cup of milk which he drank, while people were watching him. Accordingly, they were certain that one standing at 'Arafah needs not to observe Fasting.

3. Seeing some people stand at a distance from where he stood, the Messenger of Allah SAW sent them Zaid bin Marba` Al-Ansari to say to them, "I am the messenger of Allah's Prophet who tells you: Adhere to your rituals, for you are following the traditions set by your father Abraham."

4. While standing at 'Arafah, some people from Najd asked the Messenger of Allah SAW about Hajj. The Prophet SAW said, "Hajj is [staying at] 'Arafah; so whoever joins other pilgrims on the night [of Muzdalifah] before dawn, will be considered as having performed Hajj."

5. While staying at 'Arafah with the Prophet SAW, a person mounting his camel fell down and died. The Messenger of Allah SAW commanded that he should be shrouded in his own clothes, not to be perfumed, and to be washed with water and nabk. Neither his face nor his head should be covered, for Allah will raise him on the Day of Resurrection in the state of proclaiming Talbiah.

6. The Messenger of Allah SAW said, "The best supplication on the Day of 'Arafah and the best thing that I and the Prophets before me said is: There is no deity worthy of worship but Allah Alone. He has no partners. To Him alone belong the Kingdom and all praise. He has power over all things."

7. Al-Zubair bin Al- 'Awwam heard the Prophet reciting this verse, "There is no god but He: that is the witness of Allah, His angels, and those endued with knowledge, standing firm on justice. There is no god but Him, the Exalted in Power, the Wise."

8. Among the supplications attributed to the Prophet SAW on the Day of 'Arafah:

a. All praise belongs to You, O Allah! As we say and better than what we can say. O Allah! My prayers, my worship, my life and my death are all for You. To You is my return, to You belongs what I own. O Allah! I seek refuge with You from the torment of the grave, the evil thoughts, confusion, and from whatever the wind may bring, from the evil that takes place during the day or night, and from the affliction of Time.

b. O Allah! You hear my words, see my place, know my private and open counsels and nothing of mine is withheld from You. I am a wretched, poor, seeker of help and refuge. I confess my sin but ask You to forgive just like the poor [who begs from the rich]. I implore You importunely like the humble sinner. I render my supplications to You like a scared person might supplicate. Such supplications are uttered by one whose head is bowed to You in submission, to You his tears are shed. For Your sake he forsakes his body and denies his will.

c. There is no deity worthy of worship but Allah Alone. He has no partner.To Him belong the Kingdom and all praise, and He has power over all things. O Allah! Place light [guidance] in my heart, in my chest, in my ears, and in my sight. O Allah! Open my chest and ease my work. O Allah! I seek refuge with you from evil thoughts, from confusion, from the trial of the grave, from the evil that takes place during the day or night, from the evil carried by the winds, and from the affliction of Time.

d. O my Lord! Make me not unblessed in my supplications for You and be kind and merciful to me. O Allah! You are the best to be asked, the best Provider.

14. BACK TO MUZDALIFAH
Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C


1. When the sun of the Day of 'Arafah had fully set and the yellow light totally disappeared, the Prophet had Usamah bin Zaid riding behind him.

2. The Prophet preceded neither fast nor slow, but when he found open space, he quickened his pace. Reaching a hillock, he slightly eased off the nosestring of his she-camel, so as to enable her to mount it. During his march, he kept on, never stopping proclaiming Talbiah.

3. He addressed the people, "O people! Adhere to tranquility! For rushing or making haste is not a virtue."

4. On the way, the Prophet SAW declined to a mountain pass on the left to urinate and perform slight ablution. Then Usamah said, "O Prophet of Allah! [Is it time for] Prayer?” Prophet said, "It will be performed at the time when we arrive in Muzdalifah."

Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C.
i. MUHASSIR

It is a stretch of land between Mina and Muzdalifah that belongs to neither of them. It was at this exact site that Allah sent down terror against the Companions of the Elephant.

ii. 'URANAH
It is a stretch of land between 'Arafah and The Sacred Monument.

* Between every two monuments there is a stretch of land that belongs to neither of them.
* Mina belongs to the Sacred Sanctuary and is also a monument.
* Muhassir belongs to the Sacred Sanctuary and is not a monument.
* Muzdalifah is both a Sanctuary and a monument.
* 'Uranah is neither a monument nor does it belong to the Sacred Sanctuary.
* 'Arafah is out of the Sanctuary but it is a monument.

iii. Staying in Al-Muzdalifah

Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C.


1- Upon reaching Al-Muzdalifah, the Messenger of Allah SAW stopped at a place near the fire on Quzah, where he performed a thorough ablution. Then he commanded that Adhan be declared and it was followed by Iqamah. The Prophet then performed the Sunset Prayer before people knelt their camels and arranged their belongings. When they settled their belongings, the Prophet commanded that Iqamah be declared, and then performed the Night Prayer without Adhan.

2- The Prophet SAW stayed until morning in Al-Muzdalifah without performing any night supererogatory Prayers.

3- In the early dawn, the weak pilgrims, children and women among who were Saudah and Umm Habibah, asked the Prophet to permit them to proceed to Mina ahead of the crowd and he granted them permission. This took place before dawn at the time when the moon was about to disappear.

4- The Messenger of Allah SAW commanded the young among the pilgrims not to throw the pebbles before dawn. He permitted the women to throw the pebbles before sunrise because they suffer more trouble in managing their affairs and because they need to be alone. Among those throwing the pebbles before the daybreak were Asma' bint Abi Bakr and Umm Salamah.

15. On To Mina

Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C.

1. When the dawn of the Feast Day broke, the Day of Sacrifice, the day of Greater Hajj, and the day when the denunciation of Allah and His Messenger from every polytheist was declared, Allah's Messenger SAW performed the Dawn Prayer at its early time. Then he rode his she-camel, Al- Qaswa', until he reached his position at Al-Mash`ar Al-Haram [the Sacred Monument]. He stood at Quzah and said, "The entire area of Muzdalifah is a suitable place to stay, but avoid the valley called Muhassir. He faced the Qiblah and began supplicating and raising his voice in exultation, glorification and Dhikr. He remained there until daylight spread before the sunrise.

2. There, 'Urwah bin Mudarris bin Al-Ta'i asked him, "O Messenger of Allah, I came from Mount Tai'. I exhausted my camel and myself as well. By Allah, I left no mountain without standing on it; will my Hajj be valid?" Allah's Messenger SAW said, "Whoever witnesses this Prayer of ours and stands with us until we leave this place, provided that he has already stood on `Arafah either at night or day, has then perfected his Hajj or completed the rites prescribed on him."

3. When he reached Juma', he said, "Verily, Allah has forgiven the righteous among you and allowed them to intercede for the sinners. Mercy descends, encompasses them and then dominates the earth so that it includes every repentant person who has guarded his tongue and hand [from sins]. Satan and his host are on 'Arafah anticipating what Allah will do with them. When [Allah's] mercy descends, he and his host will feel regret and loss. [He would say to his host,] 'For centuries, I used to seduce them so that mercy would not descend upon them; now it has descended.' Then they spread out feeling woe and regret."

4. Afterwards, the Prophet walked in a procession in Muzdalifah while pronouncing Talbiah, with Al-Fadl bin Al-'Abbas behind. Usamah bin Zaid was racing on foot in the procession of Quraish. Meanwhile, the Prophet SAW ordered Al-Fadl bin Al-'Abbas to pick seven pebbles for him [and he neither broke them from the mountain nor picked them at night as people do nowadays]. He picked seven pebbles in the size of peas. The Prophet then began dusting them off in his hand saying, "Use pebbles similar to these in throwing, and beware of exesses in your religion, for those before you were destroyed because of their exesses in religion."

5. On the Prophet's way, a beautiful woman from Khath'am stopped him and asked him about performing Hajj on behalf of her father who was too old to ride on a camel. The Prophet SAW gave her permission. Al-Fadl began casting glances at her and she returned them. Al-Fadl was handsome and fair with beautiful hair. The Prophet SAW put his hand on Al-Fadl's face, diverting it to the other side, so that neither he nor she could look at the other. Al-`Abbas said, "You have twisted your cousin's neck." The Prophet said, "I saw (in them) a young man and woman, and I felt that they were not safe from Satan."

6. Someone asked the Prophet SAW about his (the man's) mother and said, "She is a heavy old woman, so if I am to carry her (on the camel), she will not be able to hold on; and if I am to bind her, I fear I may kill her. The Prophet SAW said, "Behold, if she is indebted to anybody, would you clear her debt?" He replied in the affirmative, and the Prophet said, "Likewise, you can perform Hajj on behalf of your mother."

7. When he reached Muhassir Valley, he goaded his she-camel to hasten forward, as was his habit when passing by places in which Allah's torment had been sent upon His enemies.

8. Allah's Messenger SAW pursued the middle road that leads to Al-Jamrah Al-Kubra [the Greater Jamrah] until he reached Mina.

i. Jamrat Al-'Aqabah
Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C.


1. Jabir bin 'Abdullah said, "I saw Allah's Messenger SAW riding his she-camel on the Day of Sacrifice and instructing us, "Learn your rituals from me. I do not know whether I will be able to perform Hajj again or not."

2. The Prophet SAW continued proclaiming the Talbiah until he reached Jamrat Al-'Aqabah where he stopped pronouncing Talbiah. He stood at the bottom of the valley, putting the House on his left side, Mina on his right and facing Al-Jamrah. He threw the pebbles while riding after sunrise. He threw them one after the other, pronouncing the Takbir with each pebble. Bilal, Usamah bin Yazid and Al-Fadl bin Al-'Abbas were with him. Whereas Usamah was leading the she-camel, Bilal and Al-Fadl alternately shaded Allah's Messenger from the heat with a garment.

3. People gathered round and the Prophet SAW addressed them, "O People! Do not kill each other! When you throw pebbles, use pebbles in the size of a pea. Then he began to throw and people imitated him.

4. Describing the procession of Allah's Messenger SAW, Qudamah bin 'Abdullah Al-'Ala'i said, "Allah's Messenger SAW threw the pebbles of Al- `Aqabah at the bottom of the valley on the day of Sacrifice while he was riding a light-colored she-camel neither throwing them hard or slow, nor pushing or shoving others".

ii. Sermon in MINA

Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C.

1. Allah's Messenger SAW did not stop at Jamrat Al-'Aqabah. He returned to Mina and delivered a well-spoken sermon to explain to every group where to camp. He said, "The Muhajireen [Migrants] should camp here, and pointed to the right of the Qiblah; and the Ansar [Supporters] should camp here, pointing to the left of the Qiblah; then (the rest of) people would camp around them. He taught them their rituals. Even the ears of Mina's people were so opened wide [by Allah's Might] that they could hear the Prophet SAW in their houses.

2. In his sermon, the Prophet SAW asked, "O People! Which day is this?" They answered, "A sacred one." He asked, "And which city is this?" They answered, "A sacred one." He asked, "And which month is this?" They answered, "A sacred one." Then he said, "Verily, your blood, your property and your honor are sacred to you like the sacredness of this day of yours, in this city of yours, and in this month of yours." He repeated it many times, then raised his face to the sky and said, "O Allah! Have I delivered the Message? Have I delivered the Message? People replied, "O, yes." He said, "Woe unto you! Do not return after me to infidelity, some of you slitting the throats of others.

iii. Slaughtering in Mina
Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C.

1. Then, Allah's Messenger SAW went to slaughter his sacrificial animals in Mina. He informed his Companions that all Mina is a place for slaughtering and that all roads to Mecca are passageways and places to offer one's sacrifice. It is reported that he slaughtered sixty-three camels with a spear in his hand, and he slaughtered them with their left legs tied. Their number was identical to that of the years of his age (peace be upon him).

2. Thereupon he ceased slaughtering and commanded 'Ali bin Abi Talib to slaughter the rest of the one hundred camels, and ordered him to give their packsaddles, skins, and meat in charity to the needy. Also, he ordered `Ali not to give the butcher any portion of them as a payment and said, "We will pay him ourselves." Then he added, "He who desires may allot a portion to the butcher."

3. He took a portion from every camel and ordered it to be cooked in a pot and he ate from the meat and drank from the broth. Allah [Exalted be He] knows best.

4. Allah's Messenger SAW offered cows as a sacrifice on behalf of his wives.

5. People wanted to set up a building in Mina to shade Allah's Messenger from heat, but he said, "No, Mina is a place of stopover for any who arrives first."

iv. Shaving
Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C.


1. Upon completing the slaughtering, Allah's Messenger SAW summoned a barber called Mu'ammar to shave his head. Muslims came to take his hair while the barber was standing behind him. He SAW looked at the barber and said, "O Mu'ammar, Allah's Messenger has put his ears lobes under your hand that holds the razor." Mu'ammar said, "O Messenger of Allah! By Allah, this is among His favors and graces upon me." He said to the barber, "Shave!" and he pointed to the right side of his head. When the barber finished, the Prophet SAW distributed the hair among the attendants, then he pointed to the barber to shave the left side. After that he said, "O Abu Talhah! Take this." He gave his cut hair to Abu Talhah Al-Ansari to distribute it among people.

2. He shaved his head, trimmed his moustache and cheeks, clipped his nails and ordered that his cut hair and nails be buried.

3. When the Prophet finished shaving, Khalid bin Al-Walid asked him if he could take the forelock. He gave it to Khalid who put it in the front part of his cap. Thereafter, Khalid never met a body of warriors but conquered them [by the blessings of that forelock].

4. Most Companions of the Prophet SAW shaved their heads, and the rest only shortened their hair. So he said, "O Allah! Forgive those who shaved their heads." He repeated it three times and each time they said, "O Messenger of Allah! What about those who have shortened their hair?" In the forth time he said, "And [forgive] those who have shortened their hair.

5. After shaving, Allah's Messenger SAW perfumed himself, put on a sewn garment and people removed their Ihram.

6. A man asked, "O Messenger of Allah! I shaved my head before slaughtering my animal. [So what should I do?]" Allah's Messenger SAW said, "There is no harm, go and slaughter your animal." Another man asked, "O Messenger of Allah! I returned [from Mina] before slaughtering. [So what should I do?]" He replied, "There is no harm, go and shave." Whenever Allah's Messenger was asked about anything which had been done before or after its proper time, he said, "Do it [now], and there is no harm."

7. Allah's Messenger SAW sent ‘Abdullah bin Hudhafah Al-Sahmi, or Ka’ab bin Malik, to call upon people in Mina informing them that Allah's Messenger SAW had said, "We are in the days of eating, drinking, lawful intercourse and remembrance of Allah."

16. TAWAF IFADAH IN SACRED MOSQUE
Saturday 10-12-10 A.H. 7-3-632 A.C.


1. Then, Allah's Messenger SAW returned to Mecca before noon, riding [his she-camel] with Mu'awiah bin Abi Sufyan seated behind him all the way from Mina to Mecca. After that, he performed Tawaf Ifadah [Return Circumambulation] which is called Tawaf Al-Ziyarah [Visit Circumambulation], and may also be called Tawaf Al-Sadr [Completion Circumambulation].

2. Allah's Messenger SAW circumambulated around the House mounting on his she-camel, touching the Corner of Black Stone with his stick, so that people could see and ask him, for people were gathered around him.

3. Concluding Circumambulation, he went to Zamzam and the sons of `Abdul-Muttalib were bringing forth water and offering it to people. He said, "O Sons of `Abdul-Muttalib! Only fearing that people might fight you for it, I would have come down and brought forth water with you."

4. Allah's Messenger SAW went to the Siqayah (place of drinking) and asked for water. Al-'Abbas said, "O Fadl! Go to your mother and bring a drink for Allah's Messenger SAW." He said, "Let me drink! Fadl's mother, "O Messenger of Allah! People have put their hands in it." He said, "Let me drink [from that which the people drink]." He drank from it, then went to Zamzam and drank [from it] while standing.

* On that day, ‘A'ishah r.a circumambulated just once and also in Sa’ie and that served the purpose for her Hajj and ‘Umrah.

* Safiah r.a circumambulated and then began to menstruate. Allah's Messenger SAW said: "That Circumambulation of hers availed her from performing Farewell Circumambulation which she did not perform."

17. RETURNING TO MINA
1. Allah's Messenger performed the Noon Prayer in Mecca, and then returned to Mina. He found that people were waiting for him, so he led the Prayer for his Companions in Mina at the latest stated time of the Noon Prayer.

2. Allah's Messenger SAW spent Sunday night in Mina in anticipation of the Days of Tashriq.

18. RETURNING TO MEDINAH

Wednesday 14-12-10 A.H. 11-3-632 A.C.


Upon seeing Medina, the Prophet SAW uttered, "Allah-u-Akbar" thrice. He added, "Allah-u-Akbar, Allah-u-Akbar, Allah-u-Akbar; there is no god but Allah; He is the One Who has no partner; only His are the Sovereignty and the Praise and He is Omnipotent. [We are] returning, worshipping, prostrating and praising our Lord. Allah has fulfilled His promise, given victory to His servant, and defeated Al-Ahzab [the Confederates] alone." He invoked: O Allah! We seek refuge [with You] from the hardships of the journey and from finding evil changes on our return, or a sad disarray in our families, property and children. O Allah! Guide us to a goodly abode, leading to prosperity, with Your forgiveness and blessing.

End.

Chronology of Prophet’s Farewell Hajj I.


1. MEDINAH

1. The Prophet SAW resided in Medina for ten years, offering sacrifice every year, but did not perform Hajj during those years. He determined to set off for Hajj on Dzul-Qa'edah, 10 A.H.Thus the Prophet made a public announcement that he would perform the Hajj. When the people of Medina heard about it, those who could afford joined and participated with him to Makkah. The Prophet’s entourage was made up about 90,000 people assorting him on every side, in front and behind him, and both on his right and left sides. All of them were eager to follow the example of Allah's Messenger.

2. Prophet SAW appointed Abu Dujanah Sammak bin Kharshah Al-Sa`idi as the Caretaker Ruler of Medina.

Saturday 26-11-10 A.H. 22-2-632 A.C.

3. Having performed the Noon Prayer, the Prophet SAW delivered a sermon in which he taught people the rituals they were to perform.

4. Then he called for his she-camel and marked it on the right side of its hump, removed the blood from it and tied two sandals around its neck; and the rest of the she-camels was then marked and tied around their necks by other people. He put his she-camel under the charge of Najiah bin Jundub Al-Aslami.

5. The Prophet SAW took bathed, applied perfume, put on a gown and wrapper and said, "O Allah, let my Hajj be accepted, free of hypocrisy and showing off."

6. The Prophet SAW left Medina on Saturday, the 25th of Dzul-Qa`edah on Al- Shajarah [The Tree] route, which he used to take. He prayed in the mosque therein.

2. Dzul-Hulaifah

i. Spending the Night

Saturday 26-11-10 A.H. 22-2-632A.C.


1. Dzul-Hulaifah is three miles from Medina. It is located in ‘Aqiq Valley. The Prophet SAW arrived at Dzul-Hulaifah afternoon, and he performed the Asar Solat in shortened form.

2. The Prophet SAW made a stop under an acacia tree at the site of the mosque at Dhul-Hulaifah beneath Rausah on the right side of the road. Then he performed both the Maghrib and Isyak Solat.

3. After bathing and being perfumed by `A'ishah, the Prophet SAW paid a visit to his wives and spent the night at Dzul-Hulaifah.

4. After performing the Morning Prayer, he informed his Companions, "Tonight a messenger (in another narration: Gabriel) came to me from my Lord and said, 'Perform Prayer in this blessed valley and say: (I have intended to perform) `Umrah together with Haj.'" It actually meant to stay in Dzul- Hulaifah until performing the Noon Prayer and embarking on Ihram.

ii. Asma's Giving Birth to a Baby

In Dhul-Hulaifah, Asma' bint `Umais, wife of Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq, gave birth to a son, Muhammad bin Abi Bakr. She sent a message to the Prophet SAW asking him, "What should I do?" Thereupon he said, "Take a bath, bandage your private parts and put on Ihram."

Lessons Deduced

* A Muslim woman's firm faith and endurance are apparent, for if she had not been firmly faithful, why would she have set out from Medina for Hajj when she was expecting to give birth to a baby at any moment?


iii. Dhul-Hulaifah -Ihram

Sunday 27-11-10 A.H. 23-2-632 A.C.

1. Upon performing the Noon Prayer the Prophet SAW entered in the state of Ihram. He took a bath different from that of the previous day. He washed his head with hollyhock and potash. Then, he put little perfume on his hair and rubbed his head up and down with his fingers.

`A'ishah applied so much musk to his body and head that the flash of musk could be seen in the partings of his hair.

2. A man asked him, "What clothes must a Muhrim wear?" He replied, "Do not wear shirts, turbans, trousers, hooded cloaks or leather stockings except scuffs covering beneath one's heels."

1v. Pronouncing Talbiah

1. The Prophet SAW entered Dzul-Hulaifah mosque where he performed four raka`ahs. Afterwards, he pronounced Talbiah inside the mosque. Meanwhile, the people inside the mosque heard him and said, "He pronounced Talbiah in the mosque." He did the same when he mounted his camel. Therefore, those who were outside the mosque said, "He pronounced Talbiah when his she-camel stood erect with him on its back." When he went out to a plain land, he pronounced Talbiah. Hence those at the plain land heard him and said, "He pronounced Talbiah at the plain land." Thus they all told the truth.

2. He pronounced Talbiah for Hajj and `Umrah at the same time. In another occasion, he pronounced a separate Talbiah for `Umrah and another for Hajj, since `Umrah is a part of it. Hence, it is said that he intended to combine Hajj and `Umrah (Qiran Hajj). It is also said that he intended to combine Hajj and `Umrah with a break in between (Tamattu` Hajj). Other scholars say that he intended to perform Hajj alone (Ifrad Hajj). The soundest viewpoint is that the Prophet SAW intended at first to perform Hajj alone. Then he put on Ihram for `Umrah and combined it with Hajj.

v. Prophet's Talbiah

1. The Prophet SAW proclaimed Talbiah thus, "O my Lord! Here I am at Your service. Here I am. There is no partner with You. Here I am. Truly, all praise and grace are Yours and so are the dominion and sovereignty too. There is no partner with You." He raised his voice in Talbiah until it was heard by his Companions who repeated it after him.

2. He also pronounced Talbiah thus, "O Allah! Here I am at Your service, I respond to Your call. Here I am at Your service. Grace, good fortune and happiness are from You, and the whole of goodness is in Your Hand. Here I am at Your service. Unto You is the petition and hope. Reward for deeds is from You."

3. Additionally, the Talbiah of the Prophet SAW included,
"Here I am at Your service, to perform true Hajj for the sake of being Your true servant and obedient servant."

4. In his Talbiah, the Prophet SAW used to say, "Here I am at Your service, O Lord of Truth."

5. It was the habit of the Prophet SAW when he finished Talbiah to ask Allah to grant him forgiveness, contentment and salvation from Hell Fire.

6. Allah's Messenger SAW said, "Gabriel came to me and told me to command my Companions to raise their voice in pronouncing Talbiah." He added, "O Muhammad! Raise your voice in Talbiah and offer many sacrificial camels."

7. In another narration, he said, "Gabriel came to me and said, "O Muhammad! Tell your Companions to raise their voices in Talbiah, for it is the slogan of Hajj."

3. Al-Rauha'

Monday 28-11-10 A.H. 24-2-632 A.C.

1- Al-Rauha' is about fifty kilometers from Dhul-Hulaifah. In view of the fact that the Prophet SAW left Medina on Saturday after the Noon Prayer, he, undoubtedly, spent Monday night in some place between Dhul-Hulaifah and Fajj Al-Rauha'. In the morning, the Prophet SAW proceeded while pronouncing the aforementioned Talbiah.

2- In Al-Rauha' he saw a slain zebra and said to his Companions, "Keep away from it; its hunter is about to come." Its hunter, a man from the tribe of Bahz, came to the Prophet SAW and said, "O Apostle of Allah! This zebra is at your disposal." Thereupon, the Prophet SAW commanded Abu Bakr to divide it among the comrades.

3- The Prophet SAW performed Prayer in a small mosque, located in front of the great Mosque of Al-Rauha', on the right side of the Yemeni route leading to Mecca.

4. Al-Uthaiah

Tuesday 29-11-10 A.H. 25-2-632 A.C.

1. Leaving Fajj Al-Rauha', the Prophet SAW headed for Al-`Arj after passing by Al-Uthaiah which is about 90 kilometers from Al-Rauha'. Such long distance made it necessary for the traveling party to spend Tuesday night in some place before the Prophet SAW passed by Al-Uthaiah.

2. In Al-Uthaiah, between Al-Ruwaithah and Al- `Arj, there was a deer wounded and sleeping in the shade. The Prophet SAW asked a man (said to be Abu Bakr) to stand by it so as to prevent people from disturbing it until they went by it.

A Paradox

Why did the Prophet SAW permit eating the meat of a zebra while prohibiting that of the deer in Al-Uthaiah?

Explanation

The zebra was hunted by a man not in the state of Ihram. He came in person to the Prophet SAW, who found out with certainty that the hunter was not in the state of Ihram. Therefore, the meat of zebra was lawful and the Prophet did not forbid eating it. Regarding the deer, the Prophet did not know who had hunted and shot the arrow at it, nor whether the hunter was in the state of Ihram or not. That is why he did not permit his Companions to eat it. Allah knows best.

5. Stopover at Al-'Araj

Tuesday 29-11-10 A.H. 25-2-632 A.C.

Al-`Arj is a place near Badr where the great Battle of Badr took place. The Prophet SAW stopped at Al-`Arj near Al-Uthaiah where he spent Wednesday night. Do you think Dzul-Qa`dah, 10 A.H. was 29 or 30 days?

Information

Narrators disagreed as to whether Dzul-Qa`dah, 10 A.H. was a complete or incomplete month. The cause of this disagreement is the Hadith narrated by Ibn `Abbas, `A'ishah and Jabir that the Prophet SAW left Medina five days before the end of Dzul-Qa`dah. Thereupon, Ibn Hazm said that the Prophet's departure was on Thursday the 24th of Dzul-Qa`dah. However, other scholars maintained that the Prophet's departure was on Saturday. The narrator thought it was a complete month, but it was agreed that it was incomplete in that year. However, the soundest viewpoint is that:


* The Prophet SAW set off on Saturday, the 26th of Dzul-Qa`dah, 10 A.H. that corresponded to February 23, 632 A.D.

* Dzul-Qa`dah 10 A.H. was complete (30 days)

* Dzul-Hijjah was also complete, for, according to the Hijri calendar, that year was intercalary. In addition, February was also 29 days because, according to the Gregorian calendar, year 632 was a leap year.

* If Dzul-Hijjah was 30 days, it must have been a Hijri intercalary year. But if it was 29 days, it would be a simple year. To know whether a year is intercalary or simple, just divide it by 30, and correspond the quotient to the following figures: 2 - 5 - 7 - 10 -13 - 15 - 18 - 21 - 24 - 26 - 29. If it agrees with any of these figures, it is intercalary, and if not, it is simple. This is manifest in Dhul-Hijjah. If it is a simple year, Dhul-Hijjah will be 29 days. But if it is intercalary, Dhul-Hijjah will be 30 days.


6. Al-`Araj


i. Loss of His She-Camel

Wednesday 30-11-10 A.H. 26-2-632 A.C.


The Prophet SAW and Abu Bakr had only one camel carrying their food and belongings. Abu Bakr charged a boy to take care of it. While stopping over at Al-`Arj, the Prophet SAW sat down and on one of his sides sat Abu Bakr and `A'ishah and Asma' bint Abi Bakr on the other side. Abu Bakr waited for the boy to appear. At last, he appeared but without the camel. Thereupon, Abu Bakr asked, "Where is the camel you are in charge of?" "It got lost yesterday." answered the boy. In a rage, Abu Bakr exclaimed, "Can not you take care of just a camel?" and he began to lash the boy. Meanwhile, the Prophet SAW said while smiling, "Look at what this man in the state of Ihram is doing." The Prophet said no more than this, all the while smiling.

ii. Fadalah Family's Supper

Wednesday 30-11-10 A.H. 26-2-632 A.C.

When the family of Fadalah Al-Aslami knew about the loss of the camel carrying the belongings of the Prophet SAW, they immediately brought a bowl of pottage for him. Thereupon, the Prophet SAW cried, "Come hither! Abu Bakr; Allah has brought us better food." Seeing that Abu Bakr was still furious at the boy, the Prophet SAW said to him, "O Abu Bakr! Don't worry! The matter is neither at your or our disposal. The boy was careful not to lose the camel and, moreover, here is a recompense for what he had lost." The Prophet then ate together with his family and Abu Bakr and his family until they all were full.

iii. Return of the She-Camel

Wednesday 30-11-10 A.H. 26-2-632 A.C.


1. Safwan bin Al-Mu`ttal r.a came surrounded by people and driving the camel carrying the provisions. He knelt down the camel before the door of the Prophet SAW. The Prophet SAW said to Abu Bakr, "Are these your belongings?""Nothing is missing," replied Abu Bakr, "but a wooden bowl. " The boy said, "That bowl is with me. " Abu Bakr said to Safwan, "May Allah pay for you whatever is held in your trust."

2. Sa`d bin `Ubadah and his son, Qais, r.a came with a camel carrying food and went to the Prophet SAW. They found him standing at the door of his house, after Allah, the Exalted and Majestic, had brought his camel back. Sa`d said, "O Messenger of Allah, we have heard that you lost your camel early this morning. Here is a camel loaded with food in recompense for the lost one." The Prophet SAW said, "May Allah blesses you both! Take your camel back, for Allah has brought ours back."

7. Al-Abwa'


Wednesday 30-11-10 A.H. 26-2-632 A.C.

1.The Prophet SAW set out until he reached Al-Abwa' where Al-S`ab bin Juthamah gave him a zebra as a present. In another narration, he gave him half of a zebra. The Prophet SAW rejected it, saying, "We reject it only because we are in the state of Ihram."

2. On Wednesday, the traveling party continued the march to `Usafan Valley in Mecca.

8. Usafan


Wednesday 2-12-10 A.H. 28-2-632 A.C.

1. The Prophet SAW spent Wednesday night at a place between Al-Abwa' and `Usafan. On Thursday, he continued his journey and also spent Friday night in travel. By Friday, he had reached the Valley of `Usafan.

2. Passing by `Usafan, the Prophet SAW asked, "What valley is it, Abu Bakr?" "'Usafan," answered Abu Bakr. The Prophet SAW said, "This valley was passed through by Salih and Hud riding two young camels whose bridles were made of flax fibres. Their [the prophets'] wrappers were cloaks and their gowns were of striped wool, pronouncing Talbiah and performing Hajj to the Ancient House”.

3. The Prophet SAW spent Saturday night in an unknown place located after crossing `Usafan Valley. After rising, he continued the march towards Sarif.

9. Passing by Sarif

Saturday 3-12-10 A.H. 29-2-632 A.C.

In his book (Al-Tabaqat Al-Kubra), Ibn Sa`d said, "The Prophet SAW was in Marr Al-Zhahran on Monday and the sun set after reaching Sarif."

The Viewpoint

The right viewpoint is that the Prophet SAW was in Marr Al-Zhahran on Saturday morning. Then, he passed by Sarif on the same day and proceeded the march until he reached Dhi Tawa, where he spent Sunday night. However, Allah knows best.

i. Annulment of Hajj

Saturday 3-12-10 A.H. 29-2-632 A.C.

1. When he was in Sarif, the Prophet SAW said to his Companions, “Whoever has no sacrificial animal and desires to make it `Umrah may do so. But whoever has a sacrificial animal may not (he must keep on his state of Ihram)." This command is called "Hajj Conversion" by jurists.

2. Fourteen Companions, may Allah be pleased with them, narrated the command to convert Hajj into `Umrah after the Prophet in authentic hadiths.

ii. `Aishah’s weeping

Saturday 3-12-10 A.H. 29-2-632 A.C.


1. When the Prophet SAW was in Sarif, `Aishah menstruated after she had intended to perform `Umrah. The Prophet SAW found her crying and asked her, "Why do you cry , `A'ishah? Have you entered the monthly period?" "Yes," she answered. Prophet said, "It is a matter Allah has ordained for the daughters of Adam. So do as one performing Hajj should do, but do not perform Circumambulation."

10. Dhi-Tawa

Sunday 4-12-10 A.H. 1-3-632 A.C.

The Prophet SAW continued the march until he stopped over at Dhi Tawa, which was known in the past as Abar Al-Zahir [Al-Zahir Wells] where he spent Sunday night and performed the Morning Prayer. Thereafter, he took a bath and set out for Makkah.