Ramadan 29, 1446

41- The Forty First Great Sin: Treachery

This includes betrayal of trust; a consultant or advisor is given trust, and a person assigned responsibilities, whether as employee or waged labor or paid for consultation and who does not act true to this trust is considered treacherous if he prioritizes his own advantage over the trust he was given. Allah says: ﴾Allah commands you to hand back the trusts to their rightful

owners﴿(1) Abu Tharr narrates the following: I said: O Messenger of Allah would you not use me? He stroke my shoulder and said: “O Abu Tharr, you are weak, and this is a trust, and on the Day of Judgement, it turns into shame and regret, except for whoever rightfully assumes it, and delivers its dues fully”(2). In fact the Prophet  refused to name Abu Tharr Al Ghafari as governor because he was too weak to handle it. Therefore, it is indeed a type of treachery for one to claim a right that one is not entitled for. In addition, gatherings and meetings are built on trust, and it is treacherous to convey discourse that took place in a aprivate gathering. Jaber Ibn Abdullah said: The Prophet  said: “Gatherings are confidential trust except for three: a gathering that sheds prohibited blood, and one to commit fornication, and one that plans unlawful acquisition of money”.(3)

A severe type of treachery is for someone to voice record another without their permission, whether on a phone call or in a gathering. Abu Saad Al Khidry narrated that the Prophet  said: “The worst of people with Allah on the Day of Judgement is a man who shares intimacy with his wife, and she with him, and then goes and spreads her secrets (including beauties and defects)”(4). Abu Huraira narrated that the Prophet  said: “He who goes on repeating anything he hears proves himself a liar”.(5)

42- The Forty Second Great Sin: Keeping Account of One’s Own Good Deeds

Allah says: ﴾Believers, do not invalidate your charitable deeds with reminders and hurtful words..﴿(6). These reminders refer to retelling oneself of one’s own good deed with another person, while harm is to remind the person who received that charitable act with the merit bestowed on him. Abu Tharr  narrates that the Prophet  said: “There are three categories of people that Allah  does not address on the Day of Judgement, nor does He look at them or declare them pure, and they will have a severe chastisement- the Prophet  repeated

this sentence three times, and Abu Tharr said: they have indeed failed and have lost, who are those O Messenger of Allah? The Prophet responded: One who wears a trailing robe (dresses with arrogance), one who takes account of what he gives, and one who

sells a commodity using deceitful swearing”.(7)

This hadith indicates that Allah  turns away from these people on the Day of Judgment and does not purify them from their sins. As for the ones reminding of their own generosity, they are the ones who do not give anything without giving account of it, therefore these are people who give charity or do favors or acts of kindness, then keep on reminding people who receive such favors of their generosity, in such a condescendent way that it becomes a sort of shame for them. Ibn Sireen once heard a man reminding another with his favors upon him, so he said to him: Keep quiet, for there is no good in any act of kindness when it gets enumerated (8). Allah commanded those who do charity or other good and do not remind the people receiving this good; they forget their acts of kindness in this life and only hope for Allah’s reward. Allah says: ﴾Those who spend their wealth for the cause of Allah, and do not follow their charity with reminders or harmful words, receive rewards from their Lord, they shall not fear, nor shall they grieve﴿.(9)

43- The Forty Third Great Sin: Disbelief in Destiny, Opposing what Allah has Decreed, and Cursing the Hour

This refers to sayings like: Why did this happened to me? What did I do to deserve such a thing? Or why did such affliction hit some people? Or where is Allah’s Justice? All of these sayings are great sins. Jaber Ibn Abdullah said: the Prophet  said: “The servant does not believe until he completely believes in Destiny, in its good and bad, and until he truly knows that what afflicted him was not going to miss him and whatever missed him was

not meant to afflict him”(10) . Abdullah Ibn Masoud  said: Biting on an ember until it cools off is more beloved to me than saying about something that Allah has decreed: I wish it had not been.(11) Allah  says: ﴾Do people think that once they say We believe, they will be left alone and not be put to the test?﴿(12). The muslim should not at or say anything that shows discontent with Allah’s Destiny, otherwise he would be blatantly disobeying Him. This is because Allah’s decrees are all goodness, justice and wisdom, and we should accept it all. It should be acceptable for a person to gently bring on a mention of pain, without protesting, like the example of the Prophet with Aisha as she said: Oh my head, and the prophet responded: “Oh my headache”(13). Al Hafiz Ibn Hijr explained this hadith saying that mentioning pain is not considered a complaint as such. In fact there are many silent people that are objecting to the decrees of Allah and many others that might complain but are accepting. The criteria here is not the tongue but what goes on in the heart, and Allah knows better(14). Therefore, the heart should never protest the decree of Allah, unless it becomes a type of thoughts or whispers that one cannot control, then one is not blamed as indicated in the hadith of the Prophet : “Allah has forgiven for my followers the evil thoughts that occur in their minds, so long as such thoughts are not brought into actions and not uttered”(15).

Sharia has prohibited the curse of the time and the hour. AlBukhari narrated that Abu Huraira conveyed: the Prophet  said: Allah  said: “The son of Adam hurts me for he curses Time though I am Time; in my Hands are all things, and I cause the revolution of day and night”(16). Muslim also narrated: “Do not curse Time, for Allah is Time”(17). Therefore, cursing time means cursing the decree of Allah.

44- The Forty Fourth Great Sin: Spying and Eavesdropping on People and their Secrets

Spying tracks people's privacy and secrets, reveals their defects out of curiosity and without lawful purpose, or eminent benefit, or avoiding any harm, whether by examination, eavesdropping or spying.

﴾Believers, avoid much suspicion. Indeed some suspicion is sin. And do not spy on one another and do not backbite. Would any of you like to eat his dead brother’s flesh? No, you would hate it. Fear Allah, Allah is Ever Forgiving and Most Merciful﴿(18)

Abu Huraira  narrates that the Prophet  said: “Beware of suspicion, as suspicion is the most untrue of speech. Do not spy and do not eavesdrop, do not compete with each other, do not

envy each other and do not hate each other, and do not shun each other. Be servants of Allah, brothers”(19). Abu Barza Al Aslami narrates that the Prophet  said: “O community of people who have believed with their tongues and faith did not enter their hearts, do not backbite the Muslims and do not track their faults, for if you track their faults, Allah will track yours, and if Allah tracks your faults He will disgrace you in your own house”.(20)

Under this type of great sin falls the acts of checking others’ phone, including the husband and the wife checking each others’ phones without their permission, or an employee that inspects the privacy of the customers and their information.

45- The Forty Fift h Great Sin: Gossip

The gossipmonger is a person who transmits speech from one gathering to another, with the intention of spreading discord. The gossipmonger is able to spoil in one hour what the magician would spoil in a month; he is comparable to flies that transmit germs and microbes. His harm is more dangerous than the harm of Satan, as the work of Satan spreads through whispers whereas the work of the gossipmonger spreads with confrontation. In addition, the gossipmonger does not come to people in the form of the obvious spoiler that approaches them saying: I will convey to you words with the intention of spreading discord and harm.

Instead, he comes saying that he is conveying the harmful words of others out of care and love. People believe the gossipmonger out of this deceitful approach, however, he is in reality an enemy in the shape of friend. Some fierce gossip mongersveiltheir gossip with piety and faith and actually approach people with an apparent pious heart praying Allah that their words are not gossip but pure advice, enjoining good and forbidding evil, while their words sow pure discord and animosity.

The most malicious of gossipers who seamlessly includes his gossip in the folds of his regular speech, as if he never intended to unveil a secret or betray a trust. So people actually are mislead to think that what he said was nothing but a slip of the tongue not at all intended to sow corruption or to sabotage relationships. The Prophet said: “The worst of people are the ones that spread gossip in communities and sow discord in good relations”.(21)

Ibn Abbas narrates: “The Prophet passed by two graves and said: They are tormented but not for a grave sin. Then he added: Yes, one of them was spreading gossip and the other was not purifying himself from urine”(22). This hadith actually carries great reference to the most important priorities of judgement of the Day of Judgement; in fact, the first thing the servant is asked about is prayer, and the first thing that will be arbitrated amongst people is blood shedding. However, since the introduction to prayer is purification and the urine voids it, and the introduction to blood shedding is animosity and gossip starts it, it was a suitable to start the recompense of the Hereafter during the first stage of it and its introduction, which is the grave. In the two Sahih from the hadith of Huthaifa, and the narration is from Muslim, he said: the Prophet  said: “No Gossipmonger will enter paradise”(23). The Bukhari narration mentions: “No spy will enter paradise”(24). The difference between the two, is that the gossiper sits with people and hears their conversations and conveys it to other people, while the spy listens to conversations discreetly (spies on them) and then conveys it to others.

______________________

(1) Al Nisa: 58.

(2) Narrated by Muslim in his Sahih, from Abu Tharr, Hadith 1825, Book of Ruling, Chapter of

Unnecessary Ruling.

(3) Narrated by Ahmad in his Musnad, from Jaber Ibn Abdullah, Hadith 14693, Book of the

Companions with Abundant Practices, Chapter of Jaber Ibn Abdullah, may Allah be pleased

with him.

(4) Narrated by Muslim in his Sahih, from Abi Said Al Khedry, Hadith 1437, Book of Marriage,

Chapter of Prohibition of Spreading the Secret of a Woman.

(5) Narrated by Muslim in his Sahih, from Abu Huraira, Imam Muslim Introduction, Chapter of

Prohibition to Convey Anything One Hears.

(6) Al Baqara: 264.

(7) Narrated by Muslim in his Sahih, from Abu Th arr, Hadith 106, Book of Faith, Chapter of Strict

Prohibition of Wearing Trailing Robes.

(8) Mentioned by Al Mawardi Ali Bin Mohammad, Book of Decorum in Life and Religion,

Chapter of Birr Virtue, 1/204.

(9) Al Baqara: 262.

(10) Narrated by Al Termethi in his Sunan from Jaber Ibn Abdullah, Hadith 2144, Book of Destiny,

Chapter of Belief in both Good and Bad as Destiny.

(11) Narrated by Abu Dawood in Al Zuhd, from Abdullah Ibn Masoud, hadith 128, Chapter of

Stories about Ibn Masoud.

(12) Al-Anqabout: 2.

(13) Narrated by Al Bukhari in his Sahih, Hadith 7217, Book of Rulings, Chapter of Succession.

(14) Mentioned by Ibn Hijr Ahmad Bin Ali in Fath Al Bari, Chapter of Complaint that is Permissible for the Sick 10/125.

(15) Narrated by Al Bukhari in his Sahih from Abu Huraira, Hadith 5269, Book of Divorce,

Chapter of Divorce in the Mind, or Forcibly or Drunk.

(16) Narrated by Al Bukhari in his Sahih, from Abu Huraira, Hadith 4826, Book of Commentary,

Chapter of It is only Time that Causes us to Perish.

(17) Narrated by Muslim in his Sahih from Abu Huraira, Hadith 2246, Book of Wording of Good

Manners, Chapter of Prohibition of Cursing Time.

(18) Al Hujurat: 12.

(19) Narrated by Al Bukhari in his Sahih, Hadith 6064, Book of Good Manners, Chapter of

Prohibitions of Envy and Shunning.

(20) Narrated by Ahmad in his Musnad, from Abu Barza Al Aslami, Hadith 19776, the Book of AlBasriyin, Chapter of Hadith of Abu Barza Al Aslami.

(21) Narrated by Ahmad in his Musnad, from Abdul Rahman Bin Ghanm, Hadith 17998, Book of

Shamiyin, Chapter of Hadith of Abdul Rahman Bin Ghanm Al Ashaari.

(22) Narrated by Al Bukhari in his Sahih, from Ibn Abbas, Hadith 1378, Book of Funerals, Chapter of Tournament of the Grave from Gossip and Urine.

(23) Narrated by Muslim in his Sahih, from Huthaifa, Hadith 105. Book of Faith, Chapter of The

Strict Prohibition of Gossip.

(24) Narrated by Al Bukhari in his Sahih from Huthaifa, Hadith 6056, Book of Good Manners,

Chapter of Types of Despised Gossip.

Nutritious Recipe

from my kitchen with love

🥮 Date Maamoul Fingers 🥮

These delicious buttery date-filled cookies are shaped into fingers, dipped in crushed pistachios, and melt in your mouth! 😋

📝 Ingredients:

For the Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
1 cup ghee or softened butter 🧈
¼ cup powdered sugar 🍚
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon mahlab (optional, for aroma)
½ cup warm milk 🥛

For the Filling:

1 ½ cups date paste (or pitted soft dates) 🌴
1 tablespoon ghee or butter 🧈
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
½ teaspoon cardamom (optional)

For Decoration:

½ cup crushed pistachios 🟢
2 tablespoons honey or sugar syrup 🍯

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1️⃣ In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and mahlab.

2️⃣ Add the ghee and rub it into the flour with your hands until it forms a sandy texture.

3️⃣ Gradually add warm milk and knead gently until a soft, non-sticky dough forms. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Date Filling

4️⃣ In a small pan, melt ghee, add date paste, cinnamon, and cardamom.

5️⃣ Mix well over low heat for 1-2 minutes until soft and pliable. Let it cool.

Step 3: Shape the Maamoul Fingers

6️⃣ Take a small piece of dough, flatten it into a rectangle in your hand.

7️⃣ Place a thin strip of date filling in the center, fold the dough over, and seal the edges.

8️⃣ Roll gently into a smooth finger shape (about 2-3 inches long).

9️⃣ Arrange on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake the Maamoul

🔟 Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until light golden.

1️⃣1️⃣ Let them cool slightly.

Step 5: Dip in Pistachios

1️⃣2️⃣ Brush the tips with honey or syrup.

1️⃣3️⃣ Dip in crushed pistachios.

💡 Success Tips for Perfect Maamoul:

✅ Don't overwork the dough – Knead gently for a soft texture.

✅ Use warm milk – It keeps the dough moist & easy to shape.

✅ Let the dough rest – This makes shaping easier and prevents cracking.

✅ Don’t over bake – They should stay light in color for a melt-in-the-mouth texture.

✅ Use fresh pistachios – They add a lovely crunch & color.

Sahtain! Enjoy these buttery, date-filled delights with a cup of tea! ☕💛😊

From One Seed to Seven Hundred: The Power of Giving

Zakat al-Fitr: Concept, Importance, and Purpose

📖 What is Zakat al-Fitr?

Zakat al-Fitr (زكاة الفطر) is a charitable donation that every capable Muslim must give at the end of Ramadan, before the Eid al-Fitr prayer. It is a form of purification for those who fasted and an act of solidarity with the less fortunate, ensuring that everyone can celebrate Eid with dignity and joy.

🌟 Why Was Zakat al-Fitr Legislated?

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ made Zakat al-Fitr obligatory to achieve two main goals:

Purification for the Fasting Person 🛀
- It cleanses any shortcomings or mistakes made during fasting, such as inappropriate speech, arguments, or distractions.
- It ensures that the spiritual benefits of Ramadan are not diminished by minor human errors.
Helping the Poor and Needy 🤝
- It allows less fortunate individuals and families to enjoy Eid without struggling for food.
- It strengthens social ties by fostering a sense of care and responsibility within the Muslim community.

The Prophet ﷺ said:"The fast remains suspended between Heaven and Earth until the Sadaqat al-Fitr is paid." (Ibn Abbas, Abu Dawood)

💰 Who Must Pay Zakat al-Fitr?

Every Muslim (man, woman, adult, child, free or slave) who has more food than they need for the day of Eid.
The head of the household pays on behalf of dependents, including children.

🍚 What Should Be Given as Zakat al-Fitr?

Traditionally, Zakat al-Fitr is given in food items that were staple foods at the time of the Prophet ﷺ, such as:

Wheat, barley, dates, raisins, rice, or flour (about 3 kg per person).
Many scholars today permit monetary equivalents, if it better serves the needs of the poor.

⏳ When Should It Be Paid?

Before the Eid prayer (best time).
It can be given a day or two before Eid, but delaying it after the prayer is prohibited unless there is a valid reason.

The Prophet ﷺ said:"Give Zakat al-Fitr before the people go out for the Eid prayer." (Bukhari & Muslim)

🌍 The Social and Spiritual Impact

✔ Eliminates begging on Eid day by ensuring everyone has food.✔ Strengthens unity and compassion in society.✔ Ensures the spirit of giving and gratitude continues after Ramadan.✔ Acts as a reminder that wealth is a test and responsibility, not just a privilege.

💡 Zakat al-Fitr is more than just a charitable obligation; it is a profound act of worship that connects faith, gratitude, and social justice in Islam. It allows the entire Muslim community to share in the blessings of Eid, promoting love, care, and balance in society.

Would you like help calculating the exact amount for Zakat al-Fitr based on your region? 😊

Takbeerat of Eid

These beautiful praises are recited on Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha to glorify Allah, express gratitude, and celebrate the joy of Eid. They are traditionally repeated from the night before Eid until the Eid prayer.

📢 تكبيرات العيد

الله أكبر، الله أكبر، الله أكبر، لا إله إلا الله، الله أكبر، الله أكبر، ولله الحمد.

الله أكبر كبيرًا، والحمد لله كثيرًا، وسبحان الله بكرةً وأصيلًا.

لا إله إلا الله وحده، صدق وعده، ونصر عبده، وأعز جنده، وهزم الأحزاب وحده.

لا إله إلا الله، ولا نعبد إلا إياه، مخلصين له الدين ولو كره الكافرون.

اللهم صلِّ على سيدنا محمد، وعلى آل سيدنا محمد، وعلى أصحاب سيدنا محمد، وعلى أنصار سيدنا محمد، وعلى أزواج سيدنا محمد، وعلى ذرية سيدنا محمد، وسلم تسليمًا كثيرًا.

📢 Eid Takbeerat (Eid Praises)

Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. There is no god but Allah. Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, and to Him belongs all praise.

Allah is the Greatest in abundance, all praise is due to Allah in great measure, and glory be to Allah day and night.

There is no god but Allah alone; He fulfilled His promise, granted victory to His servant, honored His army, and defeated the enemies alone.

There is no god but Allah, and we worship none but Him, dedicating our faith sincerely to Him, even if the disbelievers dislike it.

O Allah, send peace and blessings upon our master Muhammad, and upon the family of our master Muhammad, and upon the companions of our master Muhammad, and upon the supporters of our master Muhammad, and upon the wives of our master Muhammad, and upon the descendants of our master Muhammad, and grant them abundant peace.