Written by: Shaykh Maulana Muhammad Zafar Iqbal Al-Hammad (Hafidhahullah)
Hazrat Abu Huraira (رضي الله عنه) reports that one day, he encountered the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) while he was in a state of impurity. The Prophet (ﷺ) held his hand, and they walked together. Later, when the Prophet (ﷺ) sat down, Abu Huraira (رضي الله عنه) excused himself, left, performed Ghusl (ritual purification), and returned. When he came back, the Prophet (ﷺ) asked, "Where were you?" Abu Huraira explained the situation, to which the Prophet (ﷺ) replied, "SubhanAllah! A believer does not become impure."
— Bukhari Sharif: 281, 279
Benefit:
A Muslim’s state of impurity is not one that restricts simple greetings or interactions, nor is it permanent. We learn that during impurity, while recitation of the Quran and entering the mosque are prohibited, there is no restriction on general supplications. It is permissible to go about daily activities, including visiting the market and engaging in transactions. However, it is preferable to perform Ghusl as soon as possible.
Hazrat Abu Saeed Khudri (رضي الله عنه) narrates that, during Eid-ul-Adha or Eid-ul-Fitr, as the Prophet (ﷺ) passed by some women, he said, "O women! Give in charity, for I have seen that the majority of the inhabitants of Hell are women." They asked, "O Messenger of Allah, why is that?" He replied, "You are excessive in complaining and ungrateful to your husbands. I have not seen anyone more deficient in intellect and religion who can overwhelm a prudent man than you." The women then asked, "What is deficient in our intellect and religion?" The Prophet (ﷺ) replied, "Isn't a woman's testimony half of a man's?" They affirmed, and he said, "That is a deficiency in her intellect." Then he asked, "Do you not refrain from prayers and fasting during menstruation?" They agreed, and he said, "This is a deficiency in her religion."
— Bukhari Sharif: 298, 913, 1393, 185, 2515
Benefit:
This incident sheds light on the natural disposition of women, which can sometimes lead to a lack of appreciation. It serves as a reminder for both genders to be cautious that such traits should not influence their interactions and relationships.
Hazrat Aisha (رضي الله عنها) narrates that during the Farewell Hajj, she intended to perform the Hajj of Tamattu but was unable to do so due to menstruation. On the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, she informed the Prophet (ﷺ), who advised her to comb her hair, refrain from Umrah, and complete her Hajj. After completing Hajj, she was sent with Abdul Rahman (رضي الله عنه) to Tan'im to perform Umrah.
— Bukhari Sharif: 290, 310
Benefit:
Menstruation is a natural state from which no woman can escape. If it occurs during worship, that act of worship is interrupted, and it becomes necessary to make it up later. However, there is no requirement to make up missed prayers due to menstruation, while missed fasts must be compensated. During Hajj, a woman must complete the Tawaf al-Ziyarah before being fully released from Ihram.
— Bukhari Sharif: 318, 344, 927, 931, 937, 938, 1569
Benefit:
Women’s attendance at Eid gatherings is permissible, provided they observe the rules of modesty. It is recommended that women participate in communal worship while maintaining full adherence to Islamic guidelines on modesty.
Hazrat Imran (رضي الله عنه) narrates that while traveling with the Prophet (ﷺ), the companions stopped to rest before dawn. Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه) was the first to awaken, followed by Hazrat Bilal (رضي الله عنه), who, in his exhaustion, had fallen into a deep sleep. As dawn approached, Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه) called out loudly, waking the Prophet (ﷺ) and others. They continued their journey, and on the way, they encountered a woman with water. The Prophet (ﷺ) took some water, distributed it among the companions, and miraculously, the water remained plentiful. The woman, upon witnessing this, recognized the Prophet (ﷺ) as either a great magician or the true Messenger of Allah. Later, her tribe embraced Islam.
— Bukhari Sharif: 337
Benefit:
This incident highlights the significance of saying "InshaAllah" in all matters. It also demonstrates the miraculous help granted to the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions, reinforcing the importance of patience, reliance on Allah, and the blessings that accompany faith.
An Honor Like No Other
Hazrat Abu Dhar (رضي الله عنه) narrates that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, "I was in Makkah when the roof of my house was opened, and Jibril (Gabriel) came down. He split open my chest, washed it with the water of Zamzam, and then filled it with a basin of faith and wisdom, placing it back in my chest before sealing it. Then Jibril took me by the hand and ascended to the first heaven. When we reached the first heaven, Jibril requested that the gatekeeper open the door. The gatekeeper inquired, 'Who are you?' He replied, 'Jibril.' The gatekeeper asked, 'Is anyone with you?' Jibril responded, 'Yes, Muhammad (ﷺ) is with me.' The gatekeeper asked, 'Was he summoned?' Jibril confirmed, 'Yes.' The door was opened, and we entered the first heaven. I saw a man sitting with many people to his right and left. When he looked to his right, he smiled; when he looked to his left, he wept. Upon seeing me, he welcomed me, saying, 'Welcome, righteous Prophet and righteous son!' I asked Jibril, 'Who is this man who smiles on his right and weeps on his left?' Jibril explained, 'This is Adam, the father of humankind. The people on his right are his descendants destined for Paradise, while those on his left are the descendants bound for Hellfire. He smiles when he sees those destined for Paradise and weeps upon seeing those destined for Hell.'"
The Prophet (ﷺ) continued, "We then ascended to the second heaven, where the same exchange occurred before the gate opened. Hazrat Abu Dhar (رضي الله عنه) further narrates that the Prophet (ﷺ) saw various prophets, including Adam, Idris, Moses, Jesus, and Ibrahim (عليهم السلام) during his ascension. Although he didn’t specify the location of each prophet, he mentioned seeing Adam on the first heaven and Ibrahim on the sixth."
Benefit:
This journey of the Prophet (ﷺ), known as the Mi'raj (Ascension), illustrates an unparalleled spiritual journey with a profound significance. As the Prophet (ﷺ) ascended each level of heaven, he encountered prophets and heard messages unique to each stage, including the establishment of the prayer obligation, originally set at fifty times per day and reduced to five after multiple appeals by Prophet Musa (Moses), who advised the Prophet (ﷺ) out of compassion for the Muslim community’s capacity. Each prayer, however, retains the value of fifty due to the unchanging nature of Allah's decree.
The journey also reveals that the Prophet (ﷺ) reached the highest point at Sidrat al-Muntaha, where he beheld an incomprehensible radiance and colors beyond human understanding, entering Paradise with its domes of pearls and musk-like soil. Upon his return, he recounted this miraculous encounter to the companions.
Additional Insights:
Story No. 57: The Necessity of Covering One’s Modesty
Narration: Saeed bin Harith narrates that he asked Hazrat Jabir (رضي الله عنه) about performing Salah (prayer) in a single garment. Hazrat Jabir (رضي الله عنه) replied that once he was traveling with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and went to him one night for a need. The Prophet (ﷺ) was offering Salah, and Jabir, who only had one garment, wrapped it around himself and joined the Prophet (ﷺ) in prayer. When the Prophet (ﷺ) finished, he asked why he had come at that hour. After explaining his need, the Prophet (ﷺ) noticed how Jabir had wrapped his garment and said, "If it is wide enough, wrap it around yourself; if it is tight, then wear it as an izar (lower garment) to cover your body properly."
— Bukhari Sharif: 354
Benefit:
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) exhibited immense kindness and accessibility, as his doors remained open to all in need, without the need for guards, as evidenced in this incident. This also highlights the sacrifices made by the Companions (رضي الله عنهم) in their devotion, remaining patient and grateful even when limited to a single garment, earning them the honor of being "رضي الله عنهم و رضوا عنه" (pleased with Allah and He pleased with them). Covering one's modesty is obligatory, especially in Salah, and if only one garment is available, covering the private parts takes precedence.
Story No. 58: The Infallible Prophet
Narration: Hazrat Jabir bin Abdullah (رضي الله عنه) relates that during the reconstruction of the Kaaba, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), wearing an izar (lower garment), was carrying stones with the Quraysh. His uncle, Hazrat Abbas (رضي الله عنه), suggested he place the izar over his shoulder for more comfort. As the Prophet (ﷺ) removed it to follow the advice, he immediately fell unconscious, and from that moment onward, no one ever saw him uncovered.
— Bukhari Sharif: 357, 1505, 3617
Benefit:
The Creator is also the ultimate Protector, as shown in His special care for His beloved. Despite the Prophet’s young age at the time, Allah’s divine protection prevented any exposure, demonstrating His profound love and honor for the Prophet (ﷺ). This incident underlines the lofty modesty that the Prophet (ﷺ) embodied, making him a perfect model of virtue.
Story No. 59: The Conquest of Khaybar and Hazrat Safiyyah (رضي الله عنها)
Narration:
Hazrat Anas bin Malik (رضي الله عنه) narrates that during the battle of Khaybar, they performed the Fajr (dawn) prayer before advancing. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), with Abu Talha and others, entered Khaybar, proclaiming, "Khaybar is doomed!" He repeated this three times, indicating impending defeat for the residents. After the city was conquered, prisoners were gathered, and Dihya (رضي الله عنه) requested a bondwoman. The Prophet (ﷺ) granted his request, and he chose Safiyyah bint Huyayy. Upon learning of her noble lineage, the Prophet (ﷺ) summoned Dihya and offered him another captive, freeing Safiyyah and subsequently marrying her. Hazrat Anas (رضي الله عنه) mentions that the Prophet (ﷺ) considered her freedom as her dowry. On the journey, Hazrat Umm Sulaim (رضي الله عنها) adorned Safiyyah for the Prophet (ﷺ), and they celebrated the marriage with a simple meal of dates, ghee, and flour contributed by the Companions, marking the Walimah (wedding feast).
— Bukhari Sharif: 364, 585, 905, etc.
Benefit:
This incident illustrates the Prophet's wisdom and compassion in handling sensitive matters with regard to lineage and tribal affiliations. His marriage to Hazrat Safiyyah (رضي الله عنها) secured bonds with her people, highlighting the Prophet’s role as a bridge-builder. Misinterpretations of this event disregard the Prophet’s respect for social customs, his role as a peacemaker, and his global perspective in uniting people.
Story No. 60: A Decorated Cloak
Narration:
Hazrat Aisha (رضي الله عنها) narrates that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) once performed Salah wearing a cloak with intricate patterns. During the prayer, his gaze fell upon the designs, which distracted him. Upon finishing, he instructed, "Take this cloak to Abu Jahm and bring me a plain one, as its patterns distracted me during prayer." In another narration, the Prophet (ﷺ) expressed fear that the designs might lead to temptation.
— Bukhari Sharif: 364
Benefit:
This incident emphasizes the significance of humility and focus in prayer. As long as Muslims upheld simplicity and endured hardships, they commanded respect and leadership globally. The Prophet’s response illustrates that undivided attention and humility in worship are paramount, underscoring a reminder for us to reflect on the purity of our own worship practices and strive for devotion free of worldly distractions.
Story No. 51: A Muslim Never Becomes Impure
Narration:Hazrat Abu Huraira (رضي الله عنه) reports that one day, he encountered the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) while he was in a state of impurity. The Prophet (ﷺ) held his hand, and they walked together. Later, when the Prophet (ﷺ) sat down, Abu Huraira (رضي الله عنه) excused himself, left, performed Ghusl (ritual purification), and returned. When he came back, the Prophet (ﷺ) asked, "Where were you?" Abu Huraira explained the situation, to which the Prophet (ﷺ) replied, "SubhanAllah! A believer does not become impure."
— Bukhari Sharif: 281, 279
Benefit:
A Muslim’s state of impurity is not one that restricts simple greetings or interactions, nor is it permanent. We learn that during impurity, while recitation of the Quran and entering the mosque are prohibited, there is no restriction on general supplications. It is permissible to go about daily activities, including visiting the market and engaging in transactions. However, it is preferable to perform Ghusl as soon as possible.
Story No. 52: Women and Their Natural Vulnerability
Narration:Hazrat Abu Saeed Khudri (رضي الله عنه) narrates that, during Eid-ul-Adha or Eid-ul-Fitr, as the Prophet (ﷺ) passed by some women, he said, "O women! Give in charity, for I have seen that the majority of the inhabitants of Hell are women." They asked, "O Messenger of Allah, why is that?" He replied, "You are excessive in complaining and ungrateful to your husbands. I have not seen anyone more deficient in intellect and religion who can overwhelm a prudent man than you." The women then asked, "What is deficient in our intellect and religion?" The Prophet (ﷺ) replied, "Isn't a woman's testimony half of a man's?" They affirmed, and he said, "That is a deficiency in her intellect." Then he asked, "Do you not refrain from prayers and fasting during menstruation?" They agreed, and he said, "This is a deficiency in her religion."
— Bukhari Sharif: 298, 913, 1393, 185, 2515
Benefit:
This incident sheds light on the natural disposition of women, which can sometimes lead to a lack of appreciation. It serves as a reminder for both genders to be cautious that such traits should not influence their interactions and relationships.
Story No. 53: What Should be Done in This Case?
Narration:Hazrat Aisha (رضي الله عنها) narrates that during the Farewell Hajj, she intended to perform the Hajj of Tamattu but was unable to do so due to menstruation. On the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, she informed the Prophet (ﷺ), who advised her to comb her hair, refrain from Umrah, and complete her Hajj. After completing Hajj, she was sent with Abdul Rahman (رضي الله عنه) to Tan'im to perform Umrah.
— Bukhari Sharif: 290, 310
Benefit:
Menstruation is a natural state from which no woman can escape. If it occurs during worship, that act of worship is interrupted, and it becomes necessary to make it up later. However, there is no requirement to make up missed prayers due to menstruation, while missed fasts must be compensated. During Hajj, a woman must complete the Tawaf al-Ziyarah before being fully released from Ihram.
Story No. 54: Women and Eid Gatherings
Narration: Hazrat Hafsa (رضي الله عنها) reports that they used to prevent young women from attending Eid gatherings. Then, a woman shared that her sister had accompanied the Prophet (ﷺ) on twelve expeditions, where she assisted in treating the injured. When asked about attending Eid gatherings without appropriate covering, the Prophet (ﷺ) advised her companion to lend her covering and allow her to attend for the supplications and blessings.— Bukhari Sharif: 318, 344, 927, 931, 937, 938, 1569
Benefit:
Women’s attendance at Eid gatherings is permissible, provided they observe the rules of modesty. It is recommended that women participate in communal worship while maintaining full adherence to Islamic guidelines on modesty.
Story No. 55: A Remarkable Journey Incident
Narration:Hazrat Imran (رضي الله عنه) narrates that while traveling with the Prophet (ﷺ), the companions stopped to rest before dawn. Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه) was the first to awaken, followed by Hazrat Bilal (رضي الله عنه), who, in his exhaustion, had fallen into a deep sleep. As dawn approached, Hazrat Umar (رضي الله عنه) called out loudly, waking the Prophet (ﷺ) and others. They continued their journey, and on the way, they encountered a woman with water. The Prophet (ﷺ) took some water, distributed it among the companions, and miraculously, the water remained plentiful. The woman, upon witnessing this, recognized the Prophet (ﷺ) as either a great magician or the true Messenger of Allah. Later, her tribe embraced Islam.
— Bukhari Sharif: 337
Benefit:
This incident highlights the significance of saying "InshaAllah" in all matters. It also demonstrates the miraculous help granted to the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions, reinforcing the importance of patience, reliance on Allah, and the blessings that accompany faith.
An Honor Like No Other
Story No. 56: A Unique Honor Granted to None Other
Narration:Hazrat Abu Dhar (رضي الله عنه) narrates that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, "I was in Makkah when the roof of my house was opened, and Jibril (Gabriel) came down. He split open my chest, washed it with the water of Zamzam, and then filled it with a basin of faith and wisdom, placing it back in my chest before sealing it. Then Jibril took me by the hand and ascended to the first heaven. When we reached the first heaven, Jibril requested that the gatekeeper open the door. The gatekeeper inquired, 'Who are you?' He replied, 'Jibril.' The gatekeeper asked, 'Is anyone with you?' Jibril responded, 'Yes, Muhammad (ﷺ) is with me.' The gatekeeper asked, 'Was he summoned?' Jibril confirmed, 'Yes.' The door was opened, and we entered the first heaven. I saw a man sitting with many people to his right and left. When he looked to his right, he smiled; when he looked to his left, he wept. Upon seeing me, he welcomed me, saying, 'Welcome, righteous Prophet and righteous son!' I asked Jibril, 'Who is this man who smiles on his right and weeps on his left?' Jibril explained, 'This is Adam, the father of humankind. The people on his right are his descendants destined for Paradise, while those on his left are the descendants bound for Hellfire. He smiles when he sees those destined for Paradise and weeps upon seeing those destined for Hell.'"
The Prophet (ﷺ) continued, "We then ascended to the second heaven, where the same exchange occurred before the gate opened. Hazrat Abu Dhar (رضي الله عنه) further narrates that the Prophet (ﷺ) saw various prophets, including Adam, Idris, Moses, Jesus, and Ibrahim (عليهم السلام) during his ascension. Although he didn’t specify the location of each prophet, he mentioned seeing Adam on the first heaven and Ibrahim on the sixth."
Benefit:
This journey of the Prophet (ﷺ), known as the Mi'raj (Ascension), illustrates an unparalleled spiritual journey with a profound significance. As the Prophet (ﷺ) ascended each level of heaven, he encountered prophets and heard messages unique to each stage, including the establishment of the prayer obligation, originally set at fifty times per day and reduced to five after multiple appeals by Prophet Musa (Moses), who advised the Prophet (ﷺ) out of compassion for the Muslim community’s capacity. Each prayer, however, retains the value of fifty due to the unchanging nature of Allah's decree.
The journey also reveals that the Prophet (ﷺ) reached the highest point at Sidrat al-Muntaha, where he beheld an incomprehensible radiance and colors beyond human understanding, entering Paradise with its domes of pearls and musk-like soil. Upon his return, he recounted this miraculous encounter to the companions.
Additional Insights:
- Spiritual Significance of Mi'raj:
The Mi'raj's essence lies in its spiritual and physical dimensions, experienced by the Prophet (ﷺ) in a wakeful state. Some narrations affirm that he beheld Allah with his own eyes, a vision reserved for all Muslims on the Day of Judgment, Allah willing. - The Gift of Prayer:
The Mi'raj also granted the Ummah the gift of Salah (prayer), with each prayer carrying the reward of ten, symbolizing fifty prayers. This reinforces the immense importance of prayer as a divine gift and a duty towards Allah. - No Established Date:
Although Mi'raj is popularly commemorated on the 27th of Rajab, there is no definitive evidence specifying this date. Additionally, there are no specific rituals or fasts associated with this night in the Shariah. While fasting or worshipping is permissible, it bears no unique merit over other days. - Narrations of the Mi'raj:
Over twenty-five companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) have narrated various aspects of the Mi'raj, each contributing to its rich significance and details. - A Reminder of Allah’s Gift:
This divine encounter highlights the need for Muslims to appreciate and honor this gift of Salah by dedicating ourselves fully to this act of worship, reflecting on the unique value it holds as a direct blessing from Allah to His Messenger (ﷺ) and, by extension, to all believers.
Story No. 57: The Necessity of Covering One’s Modesty
Narration: Saeed bin Harith narrates that he asked Hazrat Jabir (رضي الله عنه) about performing Salah (prayer) in a single garment. Hazrat Jabir (رضي الله عنه) replied that once he was traveling with the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and went to him one night for a need. The Prophet (ﷺ) was offering Salah, and Jabir, who only had one garment, wrapped it around himself and joined the Prophet (ﷺ) in prayer. When the Prophet (ﷺ) finished, he asked why he had come at that hour. After explaining his need, the Prophet (ﷺ) noticed how Jabir had wrapped his garment and said, "If it is wide enough, wrap it around yourself; if it is tight, then wear it as an izar (lower garment) to cover your body properly."
— Bukhari Sharif: 354
Benefit:
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) exhibited immense kindness and accessibility, as his doors remained open to all in need, without the need for guards, as evidenced in this incident. This also highlights the sacrifices made by the Companions (رضي الله عنهم) in their devotion, remaining patient and grateful even when limited to a single garment, earning them the honor of being "رضي الله عنهم و رضوا عنه" (pleased with Allah and He pleased with them). Covering one's modesty is obligatory, especially in Salah, and if only one garment is available, covering the private parts takes precedence.
Story No. 58: The Infallible Prophet
Narration: Hazrat Jabir bin Abdullah (رضي الله عنه) relates that during the reconstruction of the Kaaba, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), wearing an izar (lower garment), was carrying stones with the Quraysh. His uncle, Hazrat Abbas (رضي الله عنه), suggested he place the izar over his shoulder for more comfort. As the Prophet (ﷺ) removed it to follow the advice, he immediately fell unconscious, and from that moment onward, no one ever saw him uncovered.
— Bukhari Sharif: 357, 1505, 3617
Benefit:
The Creator is also the ultimate Protector, as shown in His special care for His beloved. Despite the Prophet’s young age at the time, Allah’s divine protection prevented any exposure, demonstrating His profound love and honor for the Prophet (ﷺ). This incident underlines the lofty modesty that the Prophet (ﷺ) embodied, making him a perfect model of virtue.
Story No. 59: The Conquest of Khaybar and Hazrat Safiyyah (رضي الله عنها)
Narration:
Hazrat Anas bin Malik (رضي الله عنه) narrates that during the battle of Khaybar, they performed the Fajr (dawn) prayer before advancing. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), with Abu Talha and others, entered Khaybar, proclaiming, "Khaybar is doomed!" He repeated this three times, indicating impending defeat for the residents. After the city was conquered, prisoners were gathered, and Dihya (رضي الله عنه) requested a bondwoman. The Prophet (ﷺ) granted his request, and he chose Safiyyah bint Huyayy. Upon learning of her noble lineage, the Prophet (ﷺ) summoned Dihya and offered him another captive, freeing Safiyyah and subsequently marrying her. Hazrat Anas (رضي الله عنه) mentions that the Prophet (ﷺ) considered her freedom as her dowry. On the journey, Hazrat Umm Sulaim (رضي الله عنها) adorned Safiyyah for the Prophet (ﷺ), and they celebrated the marriage with a simple meal of dates, ghee, and flour contributed by the Companions, marking the Walimah (wedding feast).
— Bukhari Sharif: 364, 585, 905, etc.
Benefit:
This incident illustrates the Prophet's wisdom and compassion in handling sensitive matters with regard to lineage and tribal affiliations. His marriage to Hazrat Safiyyah (رضي الله عنها) secured bonds with her people, highlighting the Prophet’s role as a bridge-builder. Misinterpretations of this event disregard the Prophet’s respect for social customs, his role as a peacemaker, and his global perspective in uniting people.
Story No. 60: A Decorated Cloak
Narration:
Hazrat Aisha (رضي الله عنها) narrates that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) once performed Salah wearing a cloak with intricate patterns. During the prayer, his gaze fell upon the designs, which distracted him. Upon finishing, he instructed, "Take this cloak to Abu Jahm and bring me a plain one, as its patterns distracted me during prayer." In another narration, the Prophet (ﷺ) expressed fear that the designs might lead to temptation.
— Bukhari Sharif: 364
Benefit:
This incident emphasizes the significance of humility and focus in prayer. As long as Muslims upheld simplicity and endured hardships, they commanded respect and leadership globally. The Prophet’s response illustrates that undivided attention and humility in worship are paramount, underscoring a reminder for us to reflect on the purity of our own worship practices and strive for devotion free of worldly distractions.