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| [IGR] Is Your Home an Islamic Home? |
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| Halima |
| 04/16/03 at 09:22:52 |
| Is Your Home an Islamic Home? "And Allah has made for you in your homes a place of rest..."[An-Nahl:80] This may seem like an unusual question and your automatic response may be "Why, of course my home is an Islamic Home!! My family is Muslim and that makes our home a Muslim one!!" Go through this short checklist to determine if your response should really be in the affirmative. I Have Chosen a Good Spouse There are several ahadeeth that highlight the importance of choosing a righteous and pious spouse. The wisdom of this is obvious: a pious spouse is more likely to bring happiness and contentment to the other spouse and the couple together will be more able to build a righteous family and home life. This is the foundation of the home. I Help Guide My Spouse This begins with each spouse fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of their roles and treating each other with kindness and compassion. It then goes beyond this to include guidance in other spiritual matters such as striving to strengthen imaan; paying attention to worship and correcting it when needed; encouraging the reading of Qur'an, praying at night, giving charity, and reading books on Islam; helping to choose pious friends; enjoining goodness and forbidding evil. Emaan is something that may increase or decrease so it is necessary to continually focus on increasing our own and that of our spouse. Our Home is a Place for Remembrance of Allah Remembrance can be in many forms: with the heart, with the tongue, through prayer, recitation of Qur'an, memorizing adhkaar and using them, discussing Islamic issues, or reading Islamic material. These are things that should occur on a consistent basis so that the angels will come to the home and bring Allah's blessings. The Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wasallam, said: "The example of a home in which Allah is remembered and the example of a home in which Allah is not remembered, is like comparing the living and the dead." (Muslim). Our Home is a Place of Worship This means that salah is established within the home at its required time and that members of the family pray in congregation when several are present. The family may also designate a specific area for prayer and maintain its uniqueness and cleanliness. For women, it is better to pray each prayer within the home. For men, it is recommended to pray voluntary prayers at home after having prayed obligatory prayers in the masjid. The Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wasallam, said: "The voluntary prayer in the home is better than the voluntary prayer with the people. It is like the obligatory prayer of the man in congregation being better than praying the obligatory by himself." (Sahih al-Jaami). This is to ensure that homes are made places of worship just as the masajids. We Regularly read Surat Al-Baqarah and Ayatul Kursi to Keep Satan Away The Messenger of Allah, sallallahu alayhe wasallam, said: "Recite SuratAl-Baqarah in your houses, for the Satan does not enter a house in which SuratAl-Baqarah is recited." (Sahih al-Jaami). He also said: "When you go to your bed, recite Ayatul Kursi: 'Allah! There is no god but Him, the Ever-Living, the One Who Sustains and Protects all that exists', to the end, for then there will remain over you a guardian from Allah, and Satan will not come near you until morning." (Bukhari). Teaching and Learning are Ongoing Activities in Our Home This is primarily the responsibility of the head of die household who must ensure that he is guiding his family to the correct path, enjoining them to do good, and forbidding them from evil. Attaining knowledge is incumbent upon all members of the family and is the basis upon which Emaan will flourish, A study circle should be established in the home that covers the various areas in Islam and from which all family members will benefit. Children should especially be encouraged to participate since this will establish a pattern for them that will be carried throughout their lifetimes. We Have an Islamic Library in Our Home This may include such things as books, cassette tapes, and CDs. It is important to choose accurate and reliable material that will benefit the members of the family. There should be a variety of materials to cover all age levels and language needs of those in the home. Arabic material is definitely a must since everyone in the family should either know or be learning to read the language of the Qur'an. Books should cover a variety of topics, be properly organized, and be easily accessible. Audiotapes and CDs may include Qur'an recitation, lectures, khutbahs, tapes for children containing supplications, reminders of Islamic manners, and nasheeds (religious songs with no musical instruments). Family members should encourage one another to use these materials on a regular basis, and should be shared with other Muslim families who may be in need of them. We Try to Have Morals and Manners Like Prophet Muhammad The Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, said; "When Allah wills some good towards the people of a household. He introduces kindness among them." (Ahmad, Sahih al-Jaami). He also said: "Allah loves kindness and rewards it in such a way the He docs not reward for harshness or for anything else." (Muslim). There are many examples of the Prophet's kindness and good treatment toward his family that we should try to emulate. He was affectionate and playful with his wives and children and would help with household chores to case the burden for his wives. Following his example will bring tranquility to the home and help to truly make it an abode of rest. We Know the Islamic Rulings That Pertain to Houses Such as guarding the secrets of the home, seeking permission to enter, not looking into other people's homes, not allowing children to enter the parent's bedroom during certain times of the day, and not staying alone overnight. This last one is interesting to consider since some husbands travel for their business or work. The Prophet, sallallahu alayhi wasallam, actually discouraged this. Ibn Umar reported that the Prophet forbade being alone and said that a man should not stay overnight alone or travel alone (Ahmad). Not only will he be alone, but his wife and children are likely to be left alone in the home without any protection or companionship. We Invite Righteous and Knowledgeable People to Our Home "My Lord! Forgive me, and my parents, and him who enters my home as a believer, and all the believing men and women." [71:28]. Righteous people who enter your home will bring many benefits due to their presence and conversations with them. They are more likely to discuss useful topics and may be excellent sources of information and knowledge. We should always make du'aa that Allah will bless us with righteous friends since they can have such positive effects on us. The Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wasallam, said: "Keep company with a believer only, and let your food be eaten only by the righteous." (Abu Dawud, Tirmithi). There are No Evils Within Our Home Television (except possibly for educational programs) and unlawful music are not allowed in the house; pictures on the wall do not contain animate beings; there are no statues or anything that resembles statues; dogs are not present in the house; smoking is not allowed; decorations are kept simple to avoid excessiveness; the telephone is used for beneficial purposes and not harmful ones (such as gossiping or backbiting); when people come to visit, the men and women sit separately. The effects of these evils on the sanctity of the home should be obvious. For example, the Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, said: "Angels do not enter a house which has either a dog or a picture in it." (Bukhari). The Physical Aspects of the Home are Conducive to Fulfilling Religious Obligations It is best for the home to be close to a mosque so that it will be easier for men to attend the prayers in congregation and for all family members to visit the mosque for lectures, study groups, and social gatherings. It is also advisable to find an area where other Muslims live to obtain the benefits of community. One should definitely be careful about close neighbors and avoid those who are obviously immoral. When choosing a house, consideration should be made regarding the availability of separate sitting areas for men and women. The house should be spacious and fulfil safety and health requirements. Al JUMUAH VOL 11 ISSUE 8 |
| Re: [IGR] Is Your Home an Islamic Home? |
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| Sunnah |
| 04/22/03 at 22:51:45 |
| asalaamualikum hi sis. thank you for the aritcle. i have few questions regarding the home being islamic... I don't live with a husband...not yet...but with two sisters, and a brothers. My parents do live with us, but most of the time, they lgo to overseas. i am basically alone then :( My parents are religous enough. i love them both...and wouldn't ever mind living with them forever. however i can't stand my current home...a house rather, with my two eldest sisters and a older brother. i hate it here, mostly cuz its not islamic home. and cuz no one really cares for me or even understand me. my brother does'nt pray, or do anything for islam. my two sisters are same. sometime at the Maghrib prayer i tell them to turn off TV. they don't even listen! thats so sad...and our family background is a religous one. my ancestors were the best islamic scholors and very very religious. but its like as time is passing our family and relatives are changing! i hate that. but what can i do? no one wants to listen to me. i am the youngest daughter...who pay attention to the youngest one? please help me somehow...what should i do? how can i help them to turn toward Allah (swt)? they are still morally good human being...it just that they are lazy at praying five time...none of us eat haram...we don't even eat meat outside unless its from the halal store... how can i change the environment of my house? ??? |
| Re: [IGR] Is Your Home an Islamic Home? |
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| Halima |
| 04/24/03 at 06:12:57 |
| Aslaam Alaikum Younger Sis Sunnah, Your location being the U.S may Jannah or Kathy can help with the best advise on how to help your siblings and yourself as well. From from far away, I would suggest that you continue talking to them even though you are younger. But the Grace of Allah, they may one of these days listen to you. You could also ask your parents to talk to them. I am glad that you have already tried your best. Do not give up. Your example and dedication to Salat and the Islamic way of life will eventually rub off on them, INSHA-ALLAH. May Allah Subhana Watalaal turn their hearts to him, Ameen. Janna, Kathy, Can you help this younger sis with more advise. Shukran. Halima |
| Re: [IGR] Is Your Home an Islamic Home? |
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| BroHanif |
| 04/28/03 at 16:45:02 |
| Salaams, One thing that everyone should do is have a small study circle in your house everyday, make it last for five to ten minutes. Have it a regular times, say just before everyone eats or say when everyone is in the home. It takes time, but Insha-Allah, if you keep it constant the effects of good will follow. Salaams Hanif |
| NS |
| Re: [IGR] Is Your Home an Islamic Home? |
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| a_Silver_Rose |
| 04/28/03 at 17:32:39 |
| [slm] Sister Sunnah I guess this is sometimz the affect when the parents arent home much. Sister make lots of dua to make your things better and to turn the hearts of your siblings. Maybe you can tell them all the kewl things bout this board and then they can join and learn alot insh'Allah. And Alhumdulilah, sister Halima is right. Keep trying and keep showing your good example. Turn to Allah (swt) for help and He will not disapoint you. [i]The Prophet [saw] said : Allaah (swt) says: 'Indeed I am as My servant presumes Me to be, and I am with him when he remembers Me, so if he remembers Me to himself I remember him to Myself, and if he remembers Me amongst a company I remember him amongst a company I remember him amongst a company greater than it, and if he draws near to Me the span of a hand I draw near to him the span of an arm, and if he draws near to Me the span of an arm I draw near to him the span of two outstretched arms, and if he takes a step towards Me I hastily step towards him.' (Al-Bukhaaree 5/175).[/i] your sis. ps Jazak Allahu Karyon sister Halima for the enlightening article. |
| Re: [IGR] Is Your Home an Islamic Home? |
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| samr |
| 05/13/03 at 14:01:49 |
| [slm] I do allmost got thesame problem but not that far. Because am nt the yngest (alhamdolilah) and the 2brothers and1sis that r bigger than mee do pray 2. but i gut 2sisters 1is bigger than mee and 1is older .theay r only listning 2 muzic and do nat pray. I think that is because that we r living in Sweden right now I wonder when we return 2 rhe motherland IRAQ i think they will com closer 2 islam then (inscha ALLAH) YourFried Samer |
| 05/13/03 at 14:04:34 |
| samr |
| Re: [IGR] Is Your Home an Islamic Home? |
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| paula |
| 05/27/03 at 20:03:12 |
| [slm] [size=2][font=Book Anitqua][color=Navy]Bi'ithnillah …. These posts made me thinking of a situation I encountered not to long ago. Hmm … within the last year here. Work environment had brought me briefly in contact with a younger fellow from Sweden. Sweden is his homeland & he had met his wife through missionary work that took her to his country for a while. They since had kept in contact & then married where he moved to the states for some time in the country, with her family, & while she completed her college education. The two of them intend to move back out of the country & work on establishing their future goals after her education…. Insha Allah. They have two beautiful hearts & some really great intensions residing in them… Allahu Alam. This fellow was more interested in learning about Islam than many & was pretty skeptical when he first started inquiring. Asking several questions like if Islam was my choice & if I was not forced into the situation. You know, the all to typical suppression, oppression, etc. Expressed how he had faced a few influences of Islam & Muslims & what he took from them. His first expression was very much like. Have you seen those with the eyes that are sad, like a pity look? However, he was curious or concerned & very attentive to hear my take on his experiences & some more explanation of Islam itself, I think I filled in some of the missing information… Allahu Alam. It really reminded me of the other thread here about “… but I cannot stand the Muslims”. However it was not so much the Muslims that put him off, as it was the understanding/ or better yet miss understanding of what Islam was & entailed. Well, needless to say, the pity look disappeared in a very short order…. Subhan Allah. As well as quite a respect for Islam & praise to Allah (swt). If I remember correctly although he & his wife were Christian they didn’t follow a specific denomination. Which is often quite typical in many believers now days. And I can think of how many reverts/converts that have expressed they were previously Christian but could not find a denomination that they agreed with. But the point that I was getting at here or that this post had made me think about. Is this fellow was concerned about the youth & talked about Sweden. And of course as well the intensions of this individual were on life & purpose etc… Allahu Alam. How did he put it? One of the strongest expressions I remember him saying was something like the hope is disappearing. From youth everywhere, like before he believed that there was this essence for life & for goals & tomorrow & purpose. And how now a days he sees & feels like the hope is gone in the youth. The essence is gone. (That’s paraphrased; wish I had the exact words still in mind because the expression was pretty solid). I had asked him about the society there in Sweden & what he was seeing there. He expressed the sadness that it was declining just as the United States is. The same issues of Music, & Drugs, & bad behariors & peer influences. We both had many examples of such instances across the globe & in many societies (examples from both good & bad family environments). You see that balance is getting out of balance. And what is a family as an individual to do, when we have a world that is also a large influence. There are peers & others that are a large influence. I’m setting here reading all of our challenges as adults in this wide world & weakness in our Iman & Ummah. It’s hard enough for us as adults as this balance has gotten so much more out of balance. But the children, those that are so young, & so influential, & still trying to make sense of it all. They really need the resources & the guidance & protection. Parents & guardians are not the only influences these children have. And every little effort & moment truly counts. (I’m not trying to express that a good foundational home, & prayer etc, is not such an important step, it definitely is, but on a whole I think we also have an obligation as a Muslim community too). It’s making me remember now as well, wow, it was within this last year too. A mosque that I had traveled to one Friday afternoon. Hmm, that one-day was more of a lecture than an enlightening lesson. There was the strong expression that people of the community had been complaining about the Muslim children & the problems that they had been creating in the neighborhood around the Mosque. Problems they had created for local businesses. Here we have only a Muslim audience being addressed about the concern & behavior of the children. Well, I will not get into the lecture itself & details. But it definitely was another indication that we should work together as an Ummah, Brotherhood, hand in hand to not lose our religion & not lose these children to the World at large…. Insha Allah…Allahu Alam … May Allah(swt) hold these children ever so close. May he guide them & protect them to the right path. May we continue to have brothers & sisters who are strong in faith & confident in leading by example for the sake of Allah(swt) himself. May we always remember that our Beloved Prophet [saw] is truly the best example for us all, & lead by his example…insha Allah…Alhamdu lillah …. Ameen Jazak Allahu Khairan Sister Halima for another valuable post, may many ponder it's importance... Insha Allah [/color][/font][/size] [wlm] |
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