Maher.ibn.Ahmad.Attiyeh
04-28-2014, 06:54 AM
Bismillaah Al-Hamdulillaah wa salatu wa salaamu 'ala rasulullaah
Amma-ba'd
Fa:
Allaah, Subhanahu wa Ta'aala, said:
لَقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِي رَسُولِ اللَّهِ أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَة لِمَنْ كَانَ يَرْجُو اللَّهَ وَالْيَوْمَ الآخِرَ وَذَكَرَ اللَّهَ كَثِيرا
Indeed in the Messenger of Allaah (Muhammad, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) you have an excellent example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allaah and the Last Day and remembers Allaah much. (Al-Ahzaab, ayah 21)
The Tremendous Importance of Teaching the Children the Correct 'Aqeedah even before teaching them the Qur`aan!
Allaah, Subhanahu wa Ta'aala, said:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا قُوا أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَارا ً وَقُودُهَا النَّاسُ وَالْحِجَارَةُ
Oh you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones... (At-Tahreem, ayah 6)
Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: Each of you is a shepherd (guardian), and each of you will be questioned about those whom you are responsible for. [al-Bukhaaree (13/111), Muslim (no. 1829)]
The Salaf-us-salih (radiallaahu 'anhum) gave great importance to teaching their children the correct belief - the correct 'aqeedah - even before teaching them the Qur`aan.
Jundub ibn 'Abdullaah (radiallaahu 'anhu) said: "We were with the Prophet - sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam - while we were young boys, and we learned Eemaan before we learned the Qur`aan, and then we learned the Qur`aan and it increased us in Eemaan."
'Abdullaah Ibn 'Umar (radiallaahu 'anhummaa) said: "We lived during an instant of time in which one of us would receive Eemaan first before receiving the Qur`aan and, when the verses were revealed, we would learn what they permitted and what they prohibited and what they forbade and what they ordered and what stance one should have towards them. But I have seen many men from whom one is given the Qur`aan before Eemaan and he reads it from the opening of the Book to its closing and he does not know what it orders and what it forbids and what stance one should have towards it. He is like someone who is just throwing out dates ." [Al Bayhaqee and Al Haakim who authenticated it; rahimahumullaah]
Of course, Eemaan is the correct belief - the correct 'aqeedah - as comes in the hadeeth known as Hadeeth Jibreel ('alayhi salaam) who asked the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) about Eemaan, and the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) answered: To believe in Allaah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, The Last Day, and to believe in the Qadr - the good of it and the bad of it. And Jibreel said: You have said the truth. [Muslim (no. 1), Bukhaaree in Kitaab-ul-Eemaan (1/18)] These six articles of Eemaan comprise the Muslim 'Aqeedah - the 'aqeedah of Tawheed.
Shaikh Maher ibn Dhafer al-Qahtani (hafidhahullaah) said (http://www.al-sunan.com/vb/showthread.php?p=24289#post24289): "As it was reported that it was from the way of the companions - and the sunnah - to teach the children the Tawheed before the Qur`aan, and not the contrary, as it is widely spread amongst people (today)." [1]
Shaikh al-Qahtani also said: "Seeking knowledge of the Deen is mandatory, and memorizing the Qur`aan is recommended, so you do not precede the recommended over the mandatory."
As is clear from the above narrations, the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) would teach the sahaaba Eemaan before the Qur`aan, and then they would learn the Qur`aan (with its legislated, intended meaning) and it would increase them in Eemaan.
'Abdullaah Ibn 'Abbaas (radiallaahu 'anhumma) narrated that the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: Initiate to your children (that) the first word (they pronounce) be 'Laa illaaha il Allaah (none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah).' And at the time of their death, incite them to say 'Laa illaaha il Allaah (none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah).' [al-Bayhaqee, al-Haakim]
And thus it has been reported that the Sahaaba (radiallaahu 'anhum) would teach their children to say the kalima 'La illaaha il-Allaah' as soon as the children began to pronounce words, even before the age of two. Umm Sulaim (radiallaahu 'anha) would teach her son Anas (radiallaahu 'anhu), saying: "Say: 'Laa illaaha il Allaah (none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah).' Say: 'Ash-hadu anna Muhammad Rasul-ullaah (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah).'" This was before the age of weaning. [2]
And thus, Ibnul-Qayyim Jawziyyah (d. 751H, rahimahullaah) said (http://www.al-sunan.com/vb/showthread.php?p=24289#post24289): "If they (the children) reach the time of pronouncing, let them pronounce 'La Ilaaha il-Allaah, Muhammad Rasulullaah,' so that is the first thing that knocks their ears, knowing Allaah - free of any imperfection - His Tawheed, and He (Subhana) is above His throne, and that He sees them and that He hears their words and that He is with them (by His Knowledge) wherever they are..." [3]
Shaykh Muhammad Ibn 'Abdul-Wahhab (d. 1206H, rahimahullaah) wrote a letter titled "Teaching the children Tawheed," wherein he said (http://www.al-sunan.com/vb/showthread.php?p=24289#post24289) in the introduction: "This letter is a benefit showing what obligations to teach the children before teaching them the Qur`aan, so that the child becomes a complete individual upon the Islaamic fitrah under Tawheed correctly."
There is much wisdom and benefit in teaching the children Eemaan - the correct 'aqeedah - at a young age.
Ibn Abee Zayd al-Qirwanee (d. 386H, rahimahullaah) said: "Know that the best of hearts are the hearts that retain the most good, and the hearts that hope to have the most good are the hearts that good to it precede the evil (teaching the children good before any evil comes to it), so that the good will become deeply planted in their hearts."
From the above narrations, proofs and the scholarly statements, it becomes clear that the wisdom and benefits of learning Eemaan before the Qur`aan are perfect and abundant. Here are some:
- acquiring knowledge of Allaah, The One Who spoke and revealed the Qur`aan;
- acquiring knowledge of Allaah's Tawheed - His Lordship (Ruboobiyah), His Perfection (Beautiful Names and Perfect Attributes) and His Right upon His slaves (Uloohiyah, exclusive right to be worshipped);
- acquiring knowledge of the other articles of Eemaan, since knowledge and implementation of Tawheed and rectification of one's creed leads to the submission and obedience to Allaah's commands and prohibitions;[4]
- knowledge that Allaah sees and hears and has knowldege of all our deeds, and He will judge us on the Day of Resurrection based upon His Sharee'ah (Legislation);
- supporting the Fitrah, and avoiding its corruption;
- acquiring Taqwah;
- taking the stances and positions that the Qur`aanic ayaat necessitate;
- acquiring Kushu'.
So parents and teachers are strongly advised to absorb and implement this tremendous benefit and excellent example of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) who would teach the sahaaba Eemaan before the Qur`aan, and then the sahaaba would learn the Qur`aan and it would increase them in Eemaan.[5] For the correct 'aqeedah, click here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2011/10/o-muslim-yes-you-believe-that-allaah.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/12/tawheed-two-shahaadahs-and-their-true_17.html) and here (http://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=6&Topic=2958) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-aqeedah-of-ahl-us-sunnah-wal-jamaah.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2013/09/al-ikhlaas-is-foundation-for-success-of.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2013/04/salafiyyah-is-correct-islaam-original_1.html). For authentic links suited for children, click here (http://www.islam4kids.com/i4k/i4k.cfm?scn=ss&ID=2) and here (http://understand-islam.net/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=28&Itemid=43) and here (http://www.troid.ca/index.php/news/site-news-latest-updates/1560-audio-aqeedah-lessons-for-small-children) and here (http://authentic-translations.com/at/simple-english.aspx).
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The Obligation upon Guardians to Command Their Families with good, Forbid them Evil - a Responsibility Guardians will be asked about on The Day of Judgment
Allaah, Subhanahu wa Ta'aala, said:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا قُوا أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَارا ً وَقُودُهَا النَّاسُ وَالْحِجَارَةُ
Oh you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones... (At-Tahreem, ayah 6)
Regarding the verse, the following narrations were reported from the Salaf-us-salih:
'Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (radiallaahu 'anhu) said: "Discipline them, teach them."
Ibn 'Abbaas (radiallaahu 'anhumma) said: "Stay obedient to Allaah, stay away from disobeying Allaah, and command your families to remember Allaah, and He will save you from the Fire."
Mujaahid (d. 104H, rahimahullaah) said: "Fear Allaah and obey him, and tell your families to practice taqwah."
Qataadah (d. 104H, rahimahullaah) said: "A person protects his family by telling them to obey Allaah and forbidding them from disobeying Him. He upholds Allaah's commandments, and helps his family to uphold them. So if you see some disobedience of Allaah, you stop them from doing it, and you reprimand them." (At-Tabaree)[6]
Another tremendous benefit is what Abu Isma'eel Mustafa George (hafidhahullaah) relayed that one of the Salaf married off his daughter to one of his students. So after salaatul-SubH, the student returned home to his new wife and then prepared to go to her father's class to continue seeking knowledge. His new wife said to him, "Stay, I will teach you the knowledge of my father."
Allaahu Akbar. Implementing the Qur`aan and Sunnah, the Salaf (radiallaahu 'anhum) used to teach their families and children even before they taught others. They would not neglect their families.
As Shaykh Ahmad ibn Yahya an-Najmee (d. 1429H, rahimahullaah) said: "The mother is the first school. If she is righteous, the progeny becomes righteous." [Fath-ur-Rabb al-Wadud (2/256)]
Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Jameel Zaynoo (d. 1431H, rahimahullaah), in his highly beneficial advise Kayfa Nurabbee Awlaadunaa (How to Raise Our Children), said:[7]
"So you must first of all reform yourselves, since good results from the good that you do, and bad results from the bad that you do. So good conduct from teachers and parents in front of the children is the best form of education and upbringing for them.
Oh you who believe! Save yourselves and your families from the Hellfire. (Tahreem, ayah 6)
Mothers, fathers, teachers, and the society - as a whole - will all be accountable in front of Allaah concerning the tarbiyyah (education and upbringing) of this generation. If its tarbiyah is good, then there will be happiness - both in this world and the Hereafter. If it is not, then there will be misery, and it will be a rope around your necks - since there occurs in the hadeeth: Each of you is a shepherd (guardian), and each of you will be questioned about those whom you are responsible for. [al-Bukhaaree (13/111), Muslim (no. 1829)]
But - oh teachers - rejoice in the saying of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam), who said: By Allaah! That Allaah guides through you even a single person is better for you than the most precious of camels. [al-Bukhaaree (7/57), Muslim (no. 2406] And - oh parents - rejoice in the authentic hadeeth: When a person dies, his actions are terminated except for three: a recurring charity, or knowledge that he leaves which is benefited from, or a pious offspring who supplicates (to Allaah) for him. [Muslim (no. 1631)]
So you must - first of all - reform yourselves, since good results from the good that you do, and bad results from the bad that you do. So good conduct from teachers and parents in front of the children is the best form of education and upbringing for them."
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Goal concerning Qur`aan: Acting upon it, Holding it as your 'Aqeedah
Shaikh Saalih Ibn Fawzaan al-Fawzaan (hafidhahullaah) said:[8]
The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) said: Recite the Qur`aan before there comes a people who will straighten its letters [9] just as an arrow is made straight; it [the Qur`aan] will not go beyond their collarbones. They will seek to bring its reward forward, and will not wait for its reward (in the Hereafter). [10]
This hadeeth tells us that what is intended is not merely recitation of the Qur`aan; rather what is intended is recitation in order to act upon the Qur`aan. So the recitation is a means, and the goal is to act upon the Noble Qur`aan. The reward is therefore for the person who recites the Qur`aan and then acts upon it.
Allaah 'Azza wa Jall said:
نَّ الَّذِينَ يَتْلُونَ كِتَابَ اللَّهِ وَأَقَامُوا الصَّلاَةَ وَأَنْفَقُوا مِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ سِرّا ً وَعَلاَنِيَة ً يَرْجُونَ تِجَارَة ً لَنْ تَبُورَ لِيُوَفِّيَهُمْ أُجُورَهُمْ وَيَزِيدَهُمْ مِنْ فَضْلِهِ إِنَّه ُُ غَفُور ٌ شَكُور
Those who recite the Book of Allaah and who establish the prayer and who spend - from that which We have provided them - secretly and openly, having hope in a trade that will never fail. So that He may give them their rewards in full and give them more from His Bounty. Indeed He is One Who forgives extensively, One Who appreciates and rewards abundantly. (Faatir, ayah 29-30)
So Allaah did not stop at the saying:
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ يَتْلُونَ كِتَابَ
"Those who recite the Book..."
Rather, He said in addition:
وَأَقَامُوا الصَّلاَةَ وَأَنْفَقُوا مِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ سِرّا ً وَعَلاَنِيَة
"and who establish the prayer and who spend - from that which We have provided them - secretly and openly..."
So along with recitation, there must be action upon the Noble Qur`aan.
A person might recite the Qur`aan for show or to be heard or to be praised, then this will not benefit the person at all. This is also true for those who hire themselves out to recite the Qur`aan at occasions and at parties, and their only occupation is that of being a Qur`aan reciter. Such people are the furthest from those who act upon the Qur`aan - indeed some of them do not even pray!
This phrase -([The Qur`aan] will not go beyond their collarbones) - means that the Qur`aan does not reach their hearts. It is recited upon their tongues in order to achieve some wordly gain, but does not reach their hearts.
Some people use the Qur`aan as an evidence but in an incorrect way, as is done by the Khawaarij. For these misguided people are from those who recite the Qur`aan most out of all the people; however they shoot out from the religion just as the arrow shoots straight through the game animal. These people do not acquire knowledge and understanding of the Qur`aan, nor do they learn the meanings of the Qur`aan in the required manner.
So the three matters the Muslim must try to perform regarding the Qur`aan are:
1- The recitation, and giving importance to it.
2- Acquiring knowledge of the meanings and the explanation and what Allaah meant by His Speech.
3- Acting upon the Noble Qur`aan, as is wanted by Allaah the Most High, and holding what is contained in the Qur`aan as 'Aqeedah.
The first two of these categories are means. But the third of three is the true goal.
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Notes:
[1] Many young Muslims today are not learning the correct 'aqeedah, such as the correct belief in Allaah and the correct belief in His Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam). You will sadly find that despite the fact that youngsters have memorized the Qur`aan, or are memorizing the Qur`aan, they do not know the correct meaning of La illaaha il-Allaah, nor how to implement Tawheed, nor what the second shahada "Muhammad Rasulullaah" necessitates. And thus, they become easy targets for deviants who desire to corrupt them into adopting a belief which opposes the 'aqeedah that Allaah Ta'aala commands in the Qur`aan and Sunnah. They become easy targets for deviant callers who invite these youngsters to doubts, false principles and wicked methodologies and beliefs such as rebellion against the rulers and terrorism, or cursing the companions, or denying the Qadr, or the disbelieving ideologies of [I]Wahdat al-wujood and hulool, or supplicating to other than Allaah!! Aoodhubillaah!
Allaah, The Most High, said:
وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالإِنسَ إِلاَّ لِيَعْبُدُونِ
And I (Allaah) created not the jinns and humans except to worship Me (Alone). (Adh-Dhariyat, ayah 56)
Allaah, The Most High, commands all of mankind and jinn to single Him out with all worship (without intermediaries or intercessors). This is Allaah's Right upon all of mankind and jinn.
And as the Scholars of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah have said: This cannot be done except by actualizing the correct [I]'aqeedah. So one cannot fulfill Allaah's Right upon him unless he submits to the 'aqeedah that Allaah revealed to His Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam).
Allaah said:
فَإِنْ آمَنُوا بِمِثْلِ مَا آمَنتُمْ بِه ِفَقَدِ اهْتَدَوا وَإِنْ تَوَلَّوْا فَإِنَّمَا هُمْ فِي شِقَاق ٍ فَسَيَكْفِيكَهُمُ اللَّهُ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ
So if they believe in the like of that which you believe ([I]amantum), then they are rightly guided, but if they turn away, then they are only in opposition. So Allaah will suffice you against them. And He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. (Al-Baqarah, ayah 137)
So if your 'aqeedah is not the 'aqeedah of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) and his Sahaaba (radiallaahu 'anhum), then you are only in opposition.
Many of those young memorizers who were not taught Eemaan before the Qur`aan - many of them - don't know what Shirk and bid'ah truly are so as to be aware of them and avoid falling into them. So as a result of not being taught the correct 'aqeedah before the Qur`aan, many of them:
- strangely have a belief that opposes what they have memorized, and
- don't know what they have memorized, and
- thus do not implement what they have memorized, and
- can clearly be seen during the salat pre-occuppied with something other than the Qur`aan and the rest of the salat. And this is an indication that they truly don't know The One Whom they are worshipping - by His Names and Attributes - nor do they know why they are worshipping. They sadly haven't been taught.
For the correct 'aqeedah, click here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2011/10/o-muslim-yes-you-believe-that-allaah.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/12/tawheed-two-shahaadahs-and-their-true_17.html) and here (http://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=6&Topic=2958) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-aqeedah-of-ahl-us-sunnah-wal-jamaah.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2013/09/al-ikhlaas-is-foundation-for-success-of.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2013/04/salafiyyah-is-correct-islaam-original_1.html). For authentic links suited for children, click here (http://www.islam4kids.com/i4k/i4k.cfm?scn=ss&ID=2) and here (http://understand-islam.net/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=28&Itemid=43) and here (http://www.troid.ca/index.php/news/site-news-latest-updates/1560-audio-aqeedah-lessons-for-small-children) and here (http://authentic-translations.com/at/simple-english.aspx).
And know that opposing the correct belief is precisely what causes splitting and division in the Ummah. For more on the causes of the splitting of the Ummah, click here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/07/proofs-that-shirk-bidah-sins.html) and here (http://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=6&Topic=9755&sortby=desc). Also read this four-part benefit: Part 1 (http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/oeotc-glimpses-into-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-1.cfm)/ Part 2 (http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/vqlrf-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-2.cfm)/ Part 3 (http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/hxnhe-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-3.cfm)/ Part 4 (http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/flqoi-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-4.cfm)
[2] Siyar A'laam an-Nubalaa (2/305)
[3] Ponder upon this noble and praiseworthy methodology of sincerely teaching children the adhkaar (remembrances of Allaah) - legislated via Revelation - and getting the children's tongues and ears used to the shahadatain: 'La Ilaaha il-Allaah, Muhammad Rasulullaah.' Success on the Day of Judgment and entrance into Paradise are affirmed - via Infallible Revelation - for those who testify (with belief, sincerity, certainty, and upon knowledge) that none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.
Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: "Whoever says 'La Ilaaha il-Allaah,' sincerely, enters Paradise." [Silsilah Saheehah, no. 2355] And Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: Whoever says, 'La Ilaaha il-Allaah,' it will make him successful one day, no matter what he had done before that. [Silsilah Saheehah, no. 1932]
And Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: The best dhikr (remembrance) is La Ilaaha il-Allaah... [Silsilah Saheehah, no. 1497]
And Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said about the dhikr of La Ilaaha il-Allaah: It is the best of the deeds. [Ahmad, and al-Albaanee authenticated it; rahimahumullaah]
And he (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) also said: ...The best thing said by me and the previous prophets is: 'La Ilaaha il-Allaahu, WaHdahu la shareeka Lahu, Lahul-mulku, wa Lahul-Hamdu, wa Huwa 'ala kulli Shay`in Qadeer.' [At-Tirmidhee, authenticated]
And of no benefit will be merely saying this tremendous statement of La illaaha il-Allaah - upon the tongue - without knowing what it means and without abiding by what it necessitates.
Indeed Wahb Ibn Munabbih was asked, "Is not 'Laa illaaha il-Allaah' the key to Paradise?" He replied, "Of course. However, there is no key except that it has teeth. So if you approach it with the correct key, then it will be opened for you. And if not, then it will not be opened for you." [al-Bukhaaree]
And the "teeth" that Wahb Ibn Munabbih (d. 110H, rahimahullaah) was referring to are the conditions of La illaaha il-Allaah. For more on this important matter, click here (http://sunnahpublishing.net/wp-content/themes/businesspro/images/pdf-img/illallaah.pdf).
[4] Knowledge of Allaah, and knowledge and implementation of Tawheed, and submission to the correct 'Aqeedah leads to the submission of and obedience to Allaah's commands and prohibitions. As 'Aa`ishah (radiallaahu 'anha) said: "If the first thing to be revealed was 'Do not drink alcoholic drinks,' people would have said, 'We will never leave alcoholic drinks.' And if there had been revealed, 'Do not commit illegal sexual intercourse,' they would have said, 'We will never give up illegal sexual intercourse.'" [al-Bukhaaree]
For it was only after Tawheed was understood by the companions and had settled in their hearts that Allaah (Al-Hakeem, The All-Wise) began to order them with various commands.
From Allaah's Perfect Wisdom, He did not command any of the pillars - except the shahadatain (and the correct 'aqeedah) - for the first 10 years! After the sahaaba's 'aqeedah was rectified, only then did Allaah Ta'aala send down the obligation for the salat, zakat, and then - after the Hijrah - the congregational salat, the adhaan, fasting Ramadaan, Jihaad, Hajj, enjoining the good, forbidding the evil...etc.
After the Hijrah, Allaah revealed the absolute prohibition of drinking alcohol, and the sahaaba left it off immediately, such that wine was flowing in the streets. By then, the 'aqeedah was rectified.
When a person knows His Lord, knows His Lord by His Names and Attributes and His Perfection and His Wisdom, and knows Allaah's Right upon him, then you will see the person submitting to the commands and prohibitions.
As has already preceded, when one's creed is rectified, he will submit and obey. Additionally, if his creed is corrupt, then there is no benefit from his deeds to begin with.
Allaah said:
وَمَنْ يَكْفُرْ بِالإِيمَانِ فَقَدْ حَبِطَ عَمَلُه ُُ وَهُوَ فِي الآخِرَةِ مِنَ الْخَاسِرِينَ
And whosoever disbelieves in Eemaan [the Tawheed of Allaah and all the other Articles of Eemaan] then fruitless is his work, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers. (Al-Ma`idah, ayah 5)
Allaah commands us with pure, sincere Tawheed.
Allaah said:
وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلاَّ لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ حُنَفَاءَ وَيُقِيمُوا الصَّلاَةَ وَيُؤْتُوا الزَّكَاةَ وَذَلِكَ دِينُ الْقَيِّمَةِ
And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allaah, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from ascribing partners to Him), and establish As-Salaat and give Zakaat: and that is the right religion... (Al-Baiyinah, ayah 5)
And Allaah said:
وَقَضَى رَبُّكَ أَلاَّ تَعْبُدُوا إِلاَّ إِيَّاه
And your Lord has decreed that you worship none except Him... (Al-Isra`, ayah 23)
When the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) sent Mu'aadh ibn Jabal (radiallaahu 'anhu) to Yemen, he said: Oh Mu'aadh. You are going to a people from the People of the Book. Let the first thing that you call them to be the testification (shahadah) that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah. (And in one narration: that they should single out Allaah with all worship - the Tawheed of Allaah.) So if they acquire knowledge of and affirm Allaah (and His Tawheed), tell them that Allaah has enjoined on them five prayers to be offered in one day and one night. And if they pray, tell them that Allaah has enjoined on them Zakat of their properties and it is to be taken from the rich among them and given to the poor. And if they agree to that, then take from them Zakat but avoid the best property of the people. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]
Shaikh-ul-Islaam al-Haruwi al-Ansari (d. 481H, rahimahullaah) stated at the beginning of his book I'tiqaad Ahl al-Sunnah: "The first obligation upon the slave is the knowledge of Allaah. This is proven by the hadeeth of Mu'aadh, when the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said to him: You are going to a people from the People of the Book. The first thing that you should call them to is the worship of Allaah. Fa in 'arafu Allaaha (So if they acquire knowledge of and affirm Allaah (and His Tawheed)), then tell them that Allaah obligates upon them five prayers during the day and night..."
Shaikh Abu 'Uthmaan Muhammad Al-Anjaaree (hafidhahullaah) said (http://www.subulsalam.com/play.php?catsmktba=27670&PHPSESSID=ac49cf6fa4757cea26978cc48435b268): Reflect upon the statement of the Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) to Mu'aadh: Fa in 'arafu Allaaha (So if they acquire knowledge of and affirm Allaah (and His Tawheed)). Shaikh Al-Anjaaree said: Fa in 'arafu Allaaha (So if they acquire knowledge of and affirm Allaah (and His Tawheed)) -----> bi Asmaa`ihi was-Seefatihi (by His Names and Attributes).
Al-Anjaaree said: The first matter is sincere Tawheed, Eemaan saheeha. Begin with Tawheed and the correct 'aqeedah, because it is the condition for success (of one's actions) in this world and the success on the Day of Resurrection.
Shaikh Saalih ibn Fawzaan al-Fawzaan (hafidhahullaah) said in his Sharh of Thalaathatul-Usool: "So this proves that a person is not commanded with the Prayer nor with the Zakaat nor with Fasting until Tawheed is established and Tawheed is present - and that whoever begins with other than Tawheed, then his call will fail and his methodology is contrary to the methodology of the Messengers, all of them, 'alaihimus-salaam." To read about The Methodology of the Prophets in Calling to Allaah (http://www.troid.ca/media/pdf/methodology.pdf), click here (http://www.troid.ca/media/pdf/methodology.pdf).
[5] The Sahaaba reported that when they learned the Qur`aan, they would memorize 10 ayat at a time and would not proceed to the next 10 ayat until they had learned what the ayat meant and they had implemented them. 'Abdullaah ibn Mas'ood (radiallaahu 'anhu) said: "We would learn 10 verses directly from the mouth of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam), and we would not exceed that until we had learned their meaning and acted upon them. We learned knowledge and actions (together)." [From Shaikh 'Ubaid al-Jaabiree's SharhH of Thalaathatul-Usool, hafidhahullaah]
And thus, with all these evidences, it becomes clear the vast difference between many memorizers today and the memorizers back then. Many of the memorizers today neither learn the correct 'aqeedah nor apply what they memorize. Allaahul Musta'aan!
[6] At-Tabaree at-Tafseer Soorat at-Tahreem, via SayingsoftheSalaf.Net
[7] Kayfa Nurabbee Awlaadunaa (p. 2), via Troid (http://www.troid.ca/index.php/women/raising-children/167-you-will-be-accountable-o-parents-and-teachers)
[8] From the Shaikh's SharH of Lum'atul I'tiqaad
[9] Meaning they go to great lengths with regard to the recitation, doing so for show and to be heard and to vie with others and for fame. ('Awn ul Ma'bood)
[10] Shaykh Badr al Badr (hafidhahullaah) mentioned in his checking of Lum'ah thatthis hadeeth occurs with a number of similar wordings from a hadeeth of Sahl Ibn Sa'd (radiallaahu 'anhu), reported by Ahmad, Aboo Daawud (831) and others. There is a weakness in the narration of Aboo Daawud, however there is a witness which strengthens it from the hadeeth of Jaabir ibn 'Abdillaah (radiallaahu 'anhu) reported by Ahmad and Aboo Daawud (rahimahumullaah) which is saheeh. Shaykh al Albaanee (rahimahullaah) declared the hadeeth quoted here by the Imaamrahimahullaah to be hasan-saheeh (259 of as-Saheehah).
Amma-ba'd
Fa:
Allaah, Subhanahu wa Ta'aala, said:
لَقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِي رَسُولِ اللَّهِ أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَة لِمَنْ كَانَ يَرْجُو اللَّهَ وَالْيَوْمَ الآخِرَ وَذَكَرَ اللَّهَ كَثِيرا
Indeed in the Messenger of Allaah (Muhammad, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) you have an excellent example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allaah and the Last Day and remembers Allaah much. (Al-Ahzaab, ayah 21)
The Tremendous Importance of Teaching the Children the Correct 'Aqeedah even before teaching them the Qur`aan!
Allaah, Subhanahu wa Ta'aala, said:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا قُوا أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَارا ً وَقُودُهَا النَّاسُ وَالْحِجَارَةُ
Oh you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones... (At-Tahreem, ayah 6)
Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: Each of you is a shepherd (guardian), and each of you will be questioned about those whom you are responsible for. [al-Bukhaaree (13/111), Muslim (no. 1829)]
The Salaf-us-salih (radiallaahu 'anhum) gave great importance to teaching their children the correct belief - the correct 'aqeedah - even before teaching them the Qur`aan.
Jundub ibn 'Abdullaah (radiallaahu 'anhu) said: "We were with the Prophet - sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam - while we were young boys, and we learned Eemaan before we learned the Qur`aan, and then we learned the Qur`aan and it increased us in Eemaan."
'Abdullaah Ibn 'Umar (radiallaahu 'anhummaa) said: "We lived during an instant of time in which one of us would receive Eemaan first before receiving the Qur`aan and, when the verses were revealed, we would learn what they permitted and what they prohibited and what they forbade and what they ordered and what stance one should have towards them. But I have seen many men from whom one is given the Qur`aan before Eemaan and he reads it from the opening of the Book to its closing and he does not know what it orders and what it forbids and what stance one should have towards it. He is like someone who is just throwing out dates ." [Al Bayhaqee and Al Haakim who authenticated it; rahimahumullaah]
Of course, Eemaan is the correct belief - the correct 'aqeedah - as comes in the hadeeth known as Hadeeth Jibreel ('alayhi salaam) who asked the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) about Eemaan, and the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) answered: To believe in Allaah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers, The Last Day, and to believe in the Qadr - the good of it and the bad of it. And Jibreel said: You have said the truth. [Muslim (no. 1), Bukhaaree in Kitaab-ul-Eemaan (1/18)] These six articles of Eemaan comprise the Muslim 'Aqeedah - the 'aqeedah of Tawheed.
Shaikh Maher ibn Dhafer al-Qahtani (hafidhahullaah) said (http://www.al-sunan.com/vb/showthread.php?p=24289#post24289): "As it was reported that it was from the way of the companions - and the sunnah - to teach the children the Tawheed before the Qur`aan, and not the contrary, as it is widely spread amongst people (today)." [1]
Shaikh al-Qahtani also said: "Seeking knowledge of the Deen is mandatory, and memorizing the Qur`aan is recommended, so you do not precede the recommended over the mandatory."
As is clear from the above narrations, the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) would teach the sahaaba Eemaan before the Qur`aan, and then they would learn the Qur`aan (with its legislated, intended meaning) and it would increase them in Eemaan.
'Abdullaah Ibn 'Abbaas (radiallaahu 'anhumma) narrated that the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: Initiate to your children (that) the first word (they pronounce) be 'Laa illaaha il Allaah (none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah).' And at the time of their death, incite them to say 'Laa illaaha il Allaah (none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah).' [al-Bayhaqee, al-Haakim]
And thus it has been reported that the Sahaaba (radiallaahu 'anhum) would teach their children to say the kalima 'La illaaha il-Allaah' as soon as the children began to pronounce words, even before the age of two. Umm Sulaim (radiallaahu 'anha) would teach her son Anas (radiallaahu 'anhu), saying: "Say: 'Laa illaaha il Allaah (none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah).' Say: 'Ash-hadu anna Muhammad Rasul-ullaah (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah).'" This was before the age of weaning. [2]
And thus, Ibnul-Qayyim Jawziyyah (d. 751H, rahimahullaah) said (http://www.al-sunan.com/vb/showthread.php?p=24289#post24289): "If they (the children) reach the time of pronouncing, let them pronounce 'La Ilaaha il-Allaah, Muhammad Rasulullaah,' so that is the first thing that knocks their ears, knowing Allaah - free of any imperfection - His Tawheed, and He (Subhana) is above His throne, and that He sees them and that He hears their words and that He is with them (by His Knowledge) wherever they are..." [3]
Shaykh Muhammad Ibn 'Abdul-Wahhab (d. 1206H, rahimahullaah) wrote a letter titled "Teaching the children Tawheed," wherein he said (http://www.al-sunan.com/vb/showthread.php?p=24289#post24289) in the introduction: "This letter is a benefit showing what obligations to teach the children before teaching them the Qur`aan, so that the child becomes a complete individual upon the Islaamic fitrah under Tawheed correctly."
There is much wisdom and benefit in teaching the children Eemaan - the correct 'aqeedah - at a young age.
Ibn Abee Zayd al-Qirwanee (d. 386H, rahimahullaah) said: "Know that the best of hearts are the hearts that retain the most good, and the hearts that hope to have the most good are the hearts that good to it precede the evil (teaching the children good before any evil comes to it), so that the good will become deeply planted in their hearts."
From the above narrations, proofs and the scholarly statements, it becomes clear that the wisdom and benefits of learning Eemaan before the Qur`aan are perfect and abundant. Here are some:
- acquiring knowledge of Allaah, The One Who spoke and revealed the Qur`aan;
- acquiring knowledge of Allaah's Tawheed - His Lordship (Ruboobiyah), His Perfection (Beautiful Names and Perfect Attributes) and His Right upon His slaves (Uloohiyah, exclusive right to be worshipped);
- acquiring knowledge of the other articles of Eemaan, since knowledge and implementation of Tawheed and rectification of one's creed leads to the submission and obedience to Allaah's commands and prohibitions;[4]
- knowledge that Allaah sees and hears and has knowldege of all our deeds, and He will judge us on the Day of Resurrection based upon His Sharee'ah (Legislation);
- supporting the Fitrah, and avoiding its corruption;
- acquiring Taqwah;
- taking the stances and positions that the Qur`aanic ayaat necessitate;
- acquiring Kushu'.
So parents and teachers are strongly advised to absorb and implement this tremendous benefit and excellent example of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) who would teach the sahaaba Eemaan before the Qur`aan, and then the sahaaba would learn the Qur`aan and it would increase them in Eemaan.[5] For the correct 'aqeedah, click here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2011/10/o-muslim-yes-you-believe-that-allaah.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/12/tawheed-two-shahaadahs-and-their-true_17.html) and here (http://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=6&Topic=2958) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-aqeedah-of-ahl-us-sunnah-wal-jamaah.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2013/09/al-ikhlaas-is-foundation-for-success-of.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2013/04/salafiyyah-is-correct-islaam-original_1.html). For authentic links suited for children, click here (http://www.islam4kids.com/i4k/i4k.cfm?scn=ss&ID=2) and here (http://understand-islam.net/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=28&Itemid=43) and here (http://www.troid.ca/index.php/news/site-news-latest-updates/1560-audio-aqeedah-lessons-for-small-children) and here (http://authentic-translations.com/at/simple-english.aspx).
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The Obligation upon Guardians to Command Their Families with good, Forbid them Evil - a Responsibility Guardians will be asked about on The Day of Judgment
Allaah, Subhanahu wa Ta'aala, said:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا قُوا أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَارا ً وَقُودُهَا النَّاسُ وَالْحِجَارَةُ
Oh you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones... (At-Tahreem, ayah 6)
Regarding the verse, the following narrations were reported from the Salaf-us-salih:
'Ali Ibn Abi Taalib (radiallaahu 'anhu) said: "Discipline them, teach them."
Ibn 'Abbaas (radiallaahu 'anhumma) said: "Stay obedient to Allaah, stay away from disobeying Allaah, and command your families to remember Allaah, and He will save you from the Fire."
Mujaahid (d. 104H, rahimahullaah) said: "Fear Allaah and obey him, and tell your families to practice taqwah."
Qataadah (d. 104H, rahimahullaah) said: "A person protects his family by telling them to obey Allaah and forbidding them from disobeying Him. He upholds Allaah's commandments, and helps his family to uphold them. So if you see some disobedience of Allaah, you stop them from doing it, and you reprimand them." (At-Tabaree)[6]
Another tremendous benefit is what Abu Isma'eel Mustafa George (hafidhahullaah) relayed that one of the Salaf married off his daughter to one of his students. So after salaatul-SubH, the student returned home to his new wife and then prepared to go to her father's class to continue seeking knowledge. His new wife said to him, "Stay, I will teach you the knowledge of my father."
Allaahu Akbar. Implementing the Qur`aan and Sunnah, the Salaf (radiallaahu 'anhum) used to teach their families and children even before they taught others. They would not neglect their families.
As Shaykh Ahmad ibn Yahya an-Najmee (d. 1429H, rahimahullaah) said: "The mother is the first school. If she is righteous, the progeny becomes righteous." [Fath-ur-Rabb al-Wadud (2/256)]
Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Jameel Zaynoo (d. 1431H, rahimahullaah), in his highly beneficial advise Kayfa Nurabbee Awlaadunaa (How to Raise Our Children), said:[7]
"So you must first of all reform yourselves, since good results from the good that you do, and bad results from the bad that you do. So good conduct from teachers and parents in front of the children is the best form of education and upbringing for them.
Oh you who believe! Save yourselves and your families from the Hellfire. (Tahreem, ayah 6)
Mothers, fathers, teachers, and the society - as a whole - will all be accountable in front of Allaah concerning the tarbiyyah (education and upbringing) of this generation. If its tarbiyah is good, then there will be happiness - both in this world and the Hereafter. If it is not, then there will be misery, and it will be a rope around your necks - since there occurs in the hadeeth: Each of you is a shepherd (guardian), and each of you will be questioned about those whom you are responsible for. [al-Bukhaaree (13/111), Muslim (no. 1829)]
But - oh teachers - rejoice in the saying of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam), who said: By Allaah! That Allaah guides through you even a single person is better for you than the most precious of camels. [al-Bukhaaree (7/57), Muslim (no. 2406] And - oh parents - rejoice in the authentic hadeeth: When a person dies, his actions are terminated except for three: a recurring charity, or knowledge that he leaves which is benefited from, or a pious offspring who supplicates (to Allaah) for him. [Muslim (no. 1631)]
So you must - first of all - reform yourselves, since good results from the good that you do, and bad results from the bad that you do. So good conduct from teachers and parents in front of the children is the best form of education and upbringing for them."
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Goal concerning Qur`aan: Acting upon it, Holding it as your 'Aqeedah
Shaikh Saalih Ibn Fawzaan al-Fawzaan (hafidhahullaah) said:[8]
The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) said: Recite the Qur`aan before there comes a people who will straighten its letters [9] just as an arrow is made straight; it [the Qur`aan] will not go beyond their collarbones. They will seek to bring its reward forward, and will not wait for its reward (in the Hereafter). [10]
This hadeeth tells us that what is intended is not merely recitation of the Qur`aan; rather what is intended is recitation in order to act upon the Qur`aan. So the recitation is a means, and the goal is to act upon the Noble Qur`aan. The reward is therefore for the person who recites the Qur`aan and then acts upon it.
Allaah 'Azza wa Jall said:
نَّ الَّذِينَ يَتْلُونَ كِتَابَ اللَّهِ وَأَقَامُوا الصَّلاَةَ وَأَنْفَقُوا مِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ سِرّا ً وَعَلاَنِيَة ً يَرْجُونَ تِجَارَة ً لَنْ تَبُورَ لِيُوَفِّيَهُمْ أُجُورَهُمْ وَيَزِيدَهُمْ مِنْ فَضْلِهِ إِنَّه ُُ غَفُور ٌ شَكُور
Those who recite the Book of Allaah and who establish the prayer and who spend - from that which We have provided them - secretly and openly, having hope in a trade that will never fail. So that He may give them their rewards in full and give them more from His Bounty. Indeed He is One Who forgives extensively, One Who appreciates and rewards abundantly. (Faatir, ayah 29-30)
So Allaah did not stop at the saying:
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ يَتْلُونَ كِتَابَ
"Those who recite the Book..."
Rather, He said in addition:
وَأَقَامُوا الصَّلاَةَ وَأَنْفَقُوا مِمَّا رَزَقْنَاهُمْ سِرّا ً وَعَلاَنِيَة
"and who establish the prayer and who spend - from that which We have provided them - secretly and openly..."
So along with recitation, there must be action upon the Noble Qur`aan.
A person might recite the Qur`aan for show or to be heard or to be praised, then this will not benefit the person at all. This is also true for those who hire themselves out to recite the Qur`aan at occasions and at parties, and their only occupation is that of being a Qur`aan reciter. Such people are the furthest from those who act upon the Qur`aan - indeed some of them do not even pray!
This phrase -([The Qur`aan] will not go beyond their collarbones) - means that the Qur`aan does not reach their hearts. It is recited upon their tongues in order to achieve some wordly gain, but does not reach their hearts.
Some people use the Qur`aan as an evidence but in an incorrect way, as is done by the Khawaarij. For these misguided people are from those who recite the Qur`aan most out of all the people; however they shoot out from the religion just as the arrow shoots straight through the game animal. These people do not acquire knowledge and understanding of the Qur`aan, nor do they learn the meanings of the Qur`aan in the required manner.
So the three matters the Muslim must try to perform regarding the Qur`aan are:
1- The recitation, and giving importance to it.
2- Acquiring knowledge of the meanings and the explanation and what Allaah meant by His Speech.
3- Acting upon the Noble Qur`aan, as is wanted by Allaah the Most High, and holding what is contained in the Qur`aan as 'Aqeedah.
The first two of these categories are means. But the third of three is the true goal.
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Notes:
[1] Many young Muslims today are not learning the correct 'aqeedah, such as the correct belief in Allaah and the correct belief in His Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam). You will sadly find that despite the fact that youngsters have memorized the Qur`aan, or are memorizing the Qur`aan, they do not know the correct meaning of La illaaha il-Allaah, nor how to implement Tawheed, nor what the second shahada "Muhammad Rasulullaah" necessitates. And thus, they become easy targets for deviants who desire to corrupt them into adopting a belief which opposes the 'aqeedah that Allaah Ta'aala commands in the Qur`aan and Sunnah. They become easy targets for deviant callers who invite these youngsters to doubts, false principles and wicked methodologies and beliefs such as rebellion against the rulers and terrorism, or cursing the companions, or denying the Qadr, or the disbelieving ideologies of [I]Wahdat al-wujood and hulool, or supplicating to other than Allaah!! Aoodhubillaah!
Allaah, The Most High, said:
وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالإِنسَ إِلاَّ لِيَعْبُدُونِ
And I (Allaah) created not the jinns and humans except to worship Me (Alone). (Adh-Dhariyat, ayah 56)
Allaah, The Most High, commands all of mankind and jinn to single Him out with all worship (without intermediaries or intercessors). This is Allaah's Right upon all of mankind and jinn.
And as the Scholars of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah have said: This cannot be done except by actualizing the correct [I]'aqeedah. So one cannot fulfill Allaah's Right upon him unless he submits to the 'aqeedah that Allaah revealed to His Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam).
Allaah said:
فَإِنْ آمَنُوا بِمِثْلِ مَا آمَنتُمْ بِه ِفَقَدِ اهْتَدَوا وَإِنْ تَوَلَّوْا فَإِنَّمَا هُمْ فِي شِقَاق ٍ فَسَيَكْفِيكَهُمُ اللَّهُ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ
So if they believe in the like of that which you believe ([I]amantum), then they are rightly guided, but if they turn away, then they are only in opposition. So Allaah will suffice you against them. And He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. (Al-Baqarah, ayah 137)
So if your 'aqeedah is not the 'aqeedah of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) and his Sahaaba (radiallaahu 'anhum), then you are only in opposition.
Many of those young memorizers who were not taught Eemaan before the Qur`aan - many of them - don't know what Shirk and bid'ah truly are so as to be aware of them and avoid falling into them. So as a result of not being taught the correct 'aqeedah before the Qur`aan, many of them:
- strangely have a belief that opposes what they have memorized, and
- don't know what they have memorized, and
- thus do not implement what they have memorized, and
- can clearly be seen during the salat pre-occuppied with something other than the Qur`aan and the rest of the salat. And this is an indication that they truly don't know The One Whom they are worshipping - by His Names and Attributes - nor do they know why they are worshipping. They sadly haven't been taught.
For the correct 'aqeedah, click here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2011/10/o-muslim-yes-you-believe-that-allaah.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/12/tawheed-two-shahaadahs-and-their-true_17.html) and here (http://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=6&Topic=2958) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-aqeedah-of-ahl-us-sunnah-wal-jamaah.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2013/09/al-ikhlaas-is-foundation-for-success-of.html) and here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2013/04/salafiyyah-is-correct-islaam-original_1.html). For authentic links suited for children, click here (http://www.islam4kids.com/i4k/i4k.cfm?scn=ss&ID=2) and here (http://understand-islam.net/site/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=28&Itemid=43) and here (http://www.troid.ca/index.php/news/site-news-latest-updates/1560-audio-aqeedah-lessons-for-small-children) and here (http://authentic-translations.com/at/simple-english.aspx).
And know that opposing the correct belief is precisely what causes splitting and division in the Ummah. For more on the causes of the splitting of the Ummah, click here (http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/07/proofs-that-shirk-bidah-sins.html) and here (http://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=6&Topic=9755&sortby=desc). Also read this four-part benefit: Part 1 (http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/oeotc-glimpses-into-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-1.cfm)/ Part 2 (http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/vqlrf-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-2.cfm)/ Part 3 (http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/hxnhe-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-3.cfm)/ Part 4 (http://www.aqidah.com/creed/articles/flqoi-the-splitting-of-the-muslim-ummah-part-4.cfm)
[2] Siyar A'laam an-Nubalaa (2/305)
[3] Ponder upon this noble and praiseworthy methodology of sincerely teaching children the adhkaar (remembrances of Allaah) - legislated via Revelation - and getting the children's tongues and ears used to the shahadatain: 'La Ilaaha il-Allaah, Muhammad Rasulullaah.' Success on the Day of Judgment and entrance into Paradise are affirmed - via Infallible Revelation - for those who testify (with belief, sincerity, certainty, and upon knowledge) that none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.
Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: "Whoever says 'La Ilaaha il-Allaah,' sincerely, enters Paradise." [Silsilah Saheehah, no. 2355] And Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: Whoever says, 'La Ilaaha il-Allaah,' it will make him successful one day, no matter what he had done before that. [Silsilah Saheehah, no. 1932]
And Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: The best dhikr (remembrance) is La Ilaaha il-Allaah... [Silsilah Saheehah, no. 1497]
And Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said about the dhikr of La Ilaaha il-Allaah: It is the best of the deeds. [Ahmad, and al-Albaanee authenticated it; rahimahumullaah]
And he (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) also said: ...The best thing said by me and the previous prophets is: 'La Ilaaha il-Allaahu, WaHdahu la shareeka Lahu, Lahul-mulku, wa Lahul-Hamdu, wa Huwa 'ala kulli Shay`in Qadeer.' [At-Tirmidhee, authenticated]
And of no benefit will be merely saying this tremendous statement of La illaaha il-Allaah - upon the tongue - without knowing what it means and without abiding by what it necessitates.
Indeed Wahb Ibn Munabbih was asked, "Is not 'Laa illaaha il-Allaah' the key to Paradise?" He replied, "Of course. However, there is no key except that it has teeth. So if you approach it with the correct key, then it will be opened for you. And if not, then it will not be opened for you." [al-Bukhaaree]
And the "teeth" that Wahb Ibn Munabbih (d. 110H, rahimahullaah) was referring to are the conditions of La illaaha il-Allaah. For more on this important matter, click here (http://sunnahpublishing.net/wp-content/themes/businesspro/images/pdf-img/illallaah.pdf).
[4] Knowledge of Allaah, and knowledge and implementation of Tawheed, and submission to the correct 'Aqeedah leads to the submission of and obedience to Allaah's commands and prohibitions. As 'Aa`ishah (radiallaahu 'anha) said: "If the first thing to be revealed was 'Do not drink alcoholic drinks,' people would have said, 'We will never leave alcoholic drinks.' And if there had been revealed, 'Do not commit illegal sexual intercourse,' they would have said, 'We will never give up illegal sexual intercourse.'" [al-Bukhaaree]
For it was only after Tawheed was understood by the companions and had settled in their hearts that Allaah (Al-Hakeem, The All-Wise) began to order them with various commands.
From Allaah's Perfect Wisdom, He did not command any of the pillars - except the shahadatain (and the correct 'aqeedah) - for the first 10 years! After the sahaaba's 'aqeedah was rectified, only then did Allaah Ta'aala send down the obligation for the salat, zakat, and then - after the Hijrah - the congregational salat, the adhaan, fasting Ramadaan, Jihaad, Hajj, enjoining the good, forbidding the evil...etc.
After the Hijrah, Allaah revealed the absolute prohibition of drinking alcohol, and the sahaaba left it off immediately, such that wine was flowing in the streets. By then, the 'aqeedah was rectified.
When a person knows His Lord, knows His Lord by His Names and Attributes and His Perfection and His Wisdom, and knows Allaah's Right upon him, then you will see the person submitting to the commands and prohibitions.
As has already preceded, when one's creed is rectified, he will submit and obey. Additionally, if his creed is corrupt, then there is no benefit from his deeds to begin with.
Allaah said:
وَمَنْ يَكْفُرْ بِالإِيمَانِ فَقَدْ حَبِطَ عَمَلُه ُُ وَهُوَ فِي الآخِرَةِ مِنَ الْخَاسِرِينَ
And whosoever disbelieves in Eemaan [the Tawheed of Allaah and all the other Articles of Eemaan] then fruitless is his work, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers. (Al-Ma`idah, ayah 5)
Allaah commands us with pure, sincere Tawheed.
Allaah said:
وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلاَّ لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ حُنَفَاءَ وَيُقِيمُوا الصَّلاَةَ وَيُؤْتُوا الزَّكَاةَ وَذَلِكَ دِينُ الْقَيِّمَةِ
And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allaah, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from ascribing partners to Him), and establish As-Salaat and give Zakaat: and that is the right religion... (Al-Baiyinah, ayah 5)
And Allaah said:
وَقَضَى رَبُّكَ أَلاَّ تَعْبُدُوا إِلاَّ إِيَّاه
And your Lord has decreed that you worship none except Him... (Al-Isra`, ayah 23)
When the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) sent Mu'aadh ibn Jabal (radiallaahu 'anhu) to Yemen, he said: Oh Mu'aadh. You are going to a people from the People of the Book. Let the first thing that you call them to be the testification (shahadah) that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah. (And in one narration: that they should single out Allaah with all worship - the Tawheed of Allaah.) So if they acquire knowledge of and affirm Allaah (and His Tawheed), tell them that Allaah has enjoined on them five prayers to be offered in one day and one night. And if they pray, tell them that Allaah has enjoined on them Zakat of their properties and it is to be taken from the rich among them and given to the poor. And if they agree to that, then take from them Zakat but avoid the best property of the people. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]
Shaikh-ul-Islaam al-Haruwi al-Ansari (d. 481H, rahimahullaah) stated at the beginning of his book I'tiqaad Ahl al-Sunnah: "The first obligation upon the slave is the knowledge of Allaah. This is proven by the hadeeth of Mu'aadh, when the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said to him: You are going to a people from the People of the Book. The first thing that you should call them to is the worship of Allaah. Fa in 'arafu Allaaha (So if they acquire knowledge of and affirm Allaah (and His Tawheed)), then tell them that Allaah obligates upon them five prayers during the day and night..."
Shaikh Abu 'Uthmaan Muhammad Al-Anjaaree (hafidhahullaah) said (http://www.subulsalam.com/play.php?catsmktba=27670&PHPSESSID=ac49cf6fa4757cea26978cc48435b268): Reflect upon the statement of the Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) to Mu'aadh: Fa in 'arafu Allaaha (So if they acquire knowledge of and affirm Allaah (and His Tawheed)). Shaikh Al-Anjaaree said: Fa in 'arafu Allaaha (So if they acquire knowledge of and affirm Allaah (and His Tawheed)) -----> bi Asmaa`ihi was-Seefatihi (by His Names and Attributes).
Al-Anjaaree said: The first matter is sincere Tawheed, Eemaan saheeha. Begin with Tawheed and the correct 'aqeedah, because it is the condition for success (of one's actions) in this world and the success on the Day of Resurrection.
Shaikh Saalih ibn Fawzaan al-Fawzaan (hafidhahullaah) said in his Sharh of Thalaathatul-Usool: "So this proves that a person is not commanded with the Prayer nor with the Zakaat nor with Fasting until Tawheed is established and Tawheed is present - and that whoever begins with other than Tawheed, then his call will fail and his methodology is contrary to the methodology of the Messengers, all of them, 'alaihimus-salaam." To read about The Methodology of the Prophets in Calling to Allaah (http://www.troid.ca/media/pdf/methodology.pdf), click here (http://www.troid.ca/media/pdf/methodology.pdf).
[5] The Sahaaba reported that when they learned the Qur`aan, they would memorize 10 ayat at a time and would not proceed to the next 10 ayat until they had learned what the ayat meant and they had implemented them. 'Abdullaah ibn Mas'ood (radiallaahu 'anhu) said: "We would learn 10 verses directly from the mouth of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam), and we would not exceed that until we had learned their meaning and acted upon them. We learned knowledge and actions (together)." [From Shaikh 'Ubaid al-Jaabiree's SharhH of Thalaathatul-Usool, hafidhahullaah]
And thus, with all these evidences, it becomes clear the vast difference between many memorizers today and the memorizers back then. Many of the memorizers today neither learn the correct 'aqeedah nor apply what they memorize. Allaahul Musta'aan!
[6] At-Tabaree at-Tafseer Soorat at-Tahreem, via SayingsoftheSalaf.Net
[7] Kayfa Nurabbee Awlaadunaa (p. 2), via Troid (http://www.troid.ca/index.php/women/raising-children/167-you-will-be-accountable-o-parents-and-teachers)
[8] From the Shaikh's SharH of Lum'atul I'tiqaad
[9] Meaning they go to great lengths with regard to the recitation, doing so for show and to be heard and to vie with others and for fame. ('Awn ul Ma'bood)
[10] Shaykh Badr al Badr (hafidhahullaah) mentioned in his checking of Lum'ah thatthis hadeeth occurs with a number of similar wordings from a hadeeth of Sahl Ibn Sa'd (radiallaahu 'anhu), reported by Ahmad, Aboo Daawud (831) and others. There is a weakness in the narration of Aboo Daawud, however there is a witness which strengthens it from the hadeeth of Jaabir ibn 'Abdillaah (radiallaahu 'anhu) reported by Ahmad and Aboo Daawud (rahimahumullaah) which is saheeh. Shaykh al Albaanee (rahimahullaah) declared the hadeeth quoted here by the Imaamrahimahullaah to be hasan-saheeh (259 of as-Saheehah).