Roslan Hamid's Blog, page 48

Zulhijrah 24, 1442: The 'loving sheikh' from Lubuk Merbau...

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.

Reflection

The Declining Day (Al-'Asr) 1. By the declining day, 2. Lo! Man is in a state of loss, 3. Save those who believe and do good works, and exhort one another to truth and exhort one another to endurance.

A few years ago, when I was in Kuala Lumpur, I took the opportunity to visit a bookstore. At the bookshop I searched for a series of 'kitabs' (books) named 'Bahru Al-Madzi' written and compiled by our very own international renowned ulama, Sheikh Muhammad Idris Abdul Rauf Al-Marbawi. 

At that time, one of Sheikh Idris's book, 'Bahru Al-Madzi - Syarah Mukhtashar Shahih At-Tirmidzi Juzuk 13') was being used as a text book during a 'tazkirah' (Islamic lesson) at a 'masjid' near my house. 

Who was this Sheikh? Perhaps many of us do not know this figure who was famous among students and intellectuals in Egypt and Makkah. So let us find out more about this Sheikh...

There are 22 'juzuk' (volumes) of 'Bahru Al-Madzi' (Lecture on 'Shahih' At-Tirmidzi) by the great Malay scholar; the one I was looking for was 'Juzuk 13' (the 13th Volume) which discusses topics on food, good deeds and relationship.

Since during his class (kuliah Subuh) on every Sunday morning after 'subuh' (dawn) prayers, the 'ustaz' would just start reading from the book after finishing 'Juzuk 12' (Volume 12), I started looking for the book.

Well dear readers, hadiths mentioned in the book are very detailed indeed - readings from its early pages proved it - in Chapter 1 the hadith is about eating dates with cucumber.

Sheikh Idris quotes Abdullah ibn Jaafar 'radiyallahu anhu' (may he be pleased) says, “Rasulullah sallallahu alaihe wasallam (s.a.w.) ate Qith’thaa (Arab cucumbers) with dates.”

Cucumber has a cold effect and dates have a hot one. By combining the two it becomes mild. From this hadith we gather that it is recommended that the effect (hot or cold) of things eaten should be taken into consideration. Cucumber is insipid and tasteless, and dates are sweet which results in the cucumber also tasting sweet. 

Sheikh Idris usually begins his lectures with these soothing words: "Ketahuilah kiranya, ya saudaraku..." (Please, be informed my dear brothers..." This 'catchy phrase' by the Sheikh is his trademark; he makes readers feel very close to him; he is like a 'fatherly or a brotherly figure' advising his children or brothers and sisters. 

So, Sheikh Idris is close to his readers and those who follow his writtings and teachings. And some readers, I included, have fallen in love with his 'Bahru Al-Madzi'.

The ustaz during our 'kuliah Subuh' also mentioned another hadith in which Aisha radiyallah anha reports that, “Rasulullah s.a.w. ate watermelon with fresh dates.” 

In Tirmidhi and other narrations, in explaining this, Sayidina Rasulullah s.a.w. also said, “The cold effect of one removes the heat of the other, and the heat of one removes the cold effect of the other.” 

Anas radiyallahu anhu says, “I saw Rasulullah s.a.w. eat together musk-melon and dates.” 

Some ulamas have translated this also as watermelon instead of musk-melon, the reason being, as in the first narration, here also the cold effect is intended. But it is clear that musk-melon is meant here. The reason for eating dates is also that it gives the melon a sweeter taste. It is not necessary that one’s benefit be gauged everywhere. It is possible that this is due to some other benefits.

According to this humble servant the eating of watermelon with dates has its own benefit and that is to create evenness in the effect of both, so that it becomes mild. The eating of musk-melon with dates has its own benefit and that is that if the melon is insipid and tasteless, many a time, due to it being insipid sugar is mixed before it is eaten. Therefore it is not necessary to give the same reasons for both watermelon and musk-melon. 

The ustaz during our 'kuliah Subuh' showed us the way to eat Arab cucumber with dates and also water melon with dates. He said in 'one hand hold the cucumber or a piece of watermelon and in another hold the date'. 'Bite the cucumber and then the date and when both are in the mouth, start chewing them'; the 'show put on' by the ustaz made the audiences burst into laughter! 

Our ustaz have high respect for Sheikh Idris; each time he begins his lesson by mentioning contributions of the Sheikh to the Muslim ummah especially those living in the Malay archipelago. He said the Sheikh's 'kitab' was the only one from the Malay world that was being lectured at the Haram Masjid. 

"It is common for 'kitabs' by ulamas from India and Pakistan being taught at the Holy Land but I have not come across any from this part of the world except for Sheikh Idris's," he said. 

So, who is Sheikh Muhammad Idris Abdul Rauf Al-Marbawi? In a book 'Tokoh Ulama Nusantara' (Great Ulema of the Malay Archipelago) by Tajuddin Saman who is my former work mate in NSTP and translated by thefreelibrary.com; he wrote that Muhammad Idris Al-Marbawi (he was from Lubuk Merbau, Kuala Kangsar Perak thus he used the name Al-Marbawi) was born on 28 Zulkaedah 1313 Hijrah equivalent to 1893 AD in Makkah al-Mukarramah. 

At the age of 10 years, he was able to memorize a total of 10 constituents while several other books. When he was a teenager, he returned home to be with his family. 

Returning home, he was educated first at Sekolah Melayu Lubuk Merbau. Next, he pursued graduate studies at several pondok schools such as Sekolah Pondok Syeikh Wan Muhammad in Bukit Chandan, Kuala Kangsar; Pondok Tuan Hussain al-Masnudi in Kedah; Pondok Sheikh Ahmad Fatani in Bukit Mertajam and Pondok Tok Kenali in Kelantan. Upon graduation, he worked as a religious teacher in Perak. 

Sheikh Idris fame is not only in the Archipelago but also in Egypt and Makkah especially in the field of Arabic language, hadith, tafsir and fiqh. In 1924, he studied at Al-Azhar University in Egypt and got High Degree. 

Then, he began to compile the Arabic/Malay dictionary or more recognizable as 'Kamus Idris al-Marbawi', published in 1937. Until now, the dictionary has been printed repeatedly, not less than 24 times. Then starting from here, he continued to explore the challenging in writing. The book, entitled 'Bahrul Al-Madzi' discussed about 8,200 religious issues and the relationship between the life of the Hereafter. He also produced several books of tafsir al-Quran in Malay Language. Among these are Tafsir Qu'ran Marbawi, Tafsir Qur'an Nurul-Yaqin and Tafsir Surah Yassin. 

Besides that, there a few publication which are entitled Bulughul Maram, MuNjam al-KaNnat, JamiNul Ulum, Usul al-Islam and Nizamul Hayah. 

All the books written by Sheikh Idris enrich the precious Islamic heritage in the Archipelago and expose the intellectuality of Muslim community. 

Due to the contributions and prospects in the field of religion and literature, on 5 July 1980, Sheikh Idris was awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy by National University of Malaysia (UKM). Award bestowed by the Chancellor of UKM, Tunku Ja'far Ibni al-Marhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman during convocation. At that time, he was 86 years old and was recorded as a scholar who has produced 21 works in various aspects of Islam. 

In 1987, he was enthroned as the first Maal Hijrah National Figure based on contributions and high knowledge of Islam in the archipelago, especially in Malaysia. Sheikh Idris also received a cash prize of RM 40,000, a medal and certificate. The prize was presented by the then Prime Minister Dato' Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad in a ceremony Maal Hijrah celebration, in front of approximately 3,000 people were present, including ambassadors from Islamic countries, in the Islamic Centre Kuala Lumpur. When receiving the award, the Maal Hijrah figure was 95 years old.

He died shortly after receiving the award. Sheikh Idris leave a child, three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was buried in the Muslim cemetery in Kampung Lubuk Merbau that is next to the grave of his first wife, Hajah Khadijah Mohd Edham.

Sheikh Idris departure is still remembered and his name is commemorated by the Muslim society either young or elderly. The great and significant contribution by him was the Kamus Al-Marbawi. This dictionary continues to be remembered and used by students in any kind of study either high or low levels and can be seen up to now. 

As for me, I have fallen in love with 'Bahru Al-Madzi'. 'Jazak Allah Khayr' Sheikh Muhammad Idris Al-Marbawi; "May Allah reward you (with) goodness."

Zulhijah 22, 1442: 'Hijra' - implementing our belief...

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.

Reflection

The Declining Day (Al-'Asr)

1. By the declining day,

2. Lo! Man is in a state of loss,

3. Save those who believe and do good works, and exhort 

one another to truth and exhort one another to endurance.

TUESDAY, August 10th, marked the beginning of the Islamic new year of 1443; in Malaysia it is called 'Maal Hijrah' or 'Awal Muharram' (the first month of the Islamic calendar). Literally 'Hijra' means 'migration' and Muslims celebrate the anniversary of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. migration from Makkah (Mecca) to Madinah (Medina) in 622 AD.  

Scholars said it is a time for a new beginning, a change from bad to good and a chance to re-evaluate one's life and direction. It is because, the Prophet s.a.w. had said:  "There is no Hijra (i.e. migration) (from Makkah to Medina) after the Conquest (of Makkah), but Jihad and good intention remain; and if you are called (by the Muslim ruler) for fighting, go forth immediately.(Narrated by Ibn Abbas)

After delivering his 'tazkirah' (lesson) on Hijra at a 'masjid' near my house not long time ago, I asked the 'ustaz' what we could learn from the event of Hijra by comparing it with Isra' Mi'raj.

Subhanallah, he said when discussing on the subject of Hijra it is interesting to compare it with Isra' and Mi'raj - the miraculous night journey of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. from the Haram Masjid in Makkah to the al-Aqsa Masjid in al-Quds (Jerusalem) and from there he ascended to the upper heavens and Sidratul-Muntaha, was a test on the 'ummah' (Muslims) regarding their 'iman' (faith), Hijra was about 'implementing' and 'putting into practice' their belief.

If Isra' and Mi'raj which took place sometime before Hijra challenged the human being's mind regarding power, time and space; the Prophet's Hijra was 'an ordinary man's journey of more than 300 kilometers from his birth place of Makkah to Madinah which was then called Yathrib.

If Prophet Muhammad’s  s.a.w. journey to Al-Quds from Makkah (Isra') which is more than 1,000 kilometers was 'like a lightning'; this journey of Hijra (from Makkah to Madinah) in 622 AD, took days including the Prophet s.a.w. hiding for three days in the Cave of Saur (Thur) in south Makkah with his best companion, Abu Bakr r.a. (may Allah be pleased with him).

The Prophet s.a.w.,  Abu Bakr r.a. and their non-Muslim guide, Abdullah Uraiqit only arrived at Quba' on the outskirts of Yathrib after more than two weeks. There, with the help of the local people, they erected the first masjid - Masjid Quba' - before officially entering Yathrib and renaming it Madinat-un-Nabi, literally, the City of the Prophet after 30 days from the date they left Makkah.

The Hijra to Madinah was not the first for Muslims. Technically, the first Hijra occurred in 615 AD when a group of Muslims was counseled by Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. to escape persecution in Makkah and travel to Habsyah or Ethiopia (Abyssinia at the time), which was ruled by a Christian king, the Negus. But Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. himself did not join this emigration.

An 'ustaz' in discussing Isra' and Mi'raj and 'Hijra' said, based on the Prophet's 'tough' and 'hard' journey of the Hijra, Muslims too must be ever ready to face tribulations and obstacles in life what more when one is committed to live as a practicing Muslim in all aspects of life.

Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. had showed us the way to live as a Muslim who has to strive in whatever he does, be it regarding efforts to gain benefit in this world or in the Hereafter.

As Muslims we must work hard for our benefit of both worlds as we often recite in our du'a (supplication): Rabbana aatina fiddunya hasanatan wafil akhirati hasanatan waqina adhabannaar (Our Lord, give us good in this life, and in the Hereafter, and protect us from the Hellfire).

In their determination to see Islam flourish, the Prophet s.a.w. and his companions toiled and sweated including in the hot sun often in a state of hunger, for example the Prophet s.a.w. took the lead in digging a wide and deep trench around Madinah to stop the invading Musyrikin armies during the Ahzab war. In the battle of Uhud, the Prophet s.a.w. too was injured; this showed that Muslims would be 'tried' (face tribulations) by Allah SWT but must be brave in facing the hurdles to be better Muslims by each day.

All must be worked for; there is no such thing as a 'short cut' to success in the world, what more in the Hereafter. It was asked. "Oh Messenger of Allah: Who is the most excellent of men? The Messenger of Allah said, 'The believer who strives hard in the way of Allah with his person and property."

Whoso is able and fit and does not work for himself or for others, God is not gracious to him. To his companions, the Prophet s.a.w. said it is better for any of you to take your rope and bring a bundle of wood upon your back and sell it, in which case God guards your honour, then to beg of people, whether they give or not; if they do not give, your reputation suffers, and you returned disappointed; and if they give, it is worse than that; for it makes you under obligation.

The Qur'an says: "Scatter over the earth and seek Allah's bounty. Aren't we Allah's vicegerents on earth? (62;10)

But a word of caution, in performing our works and duties, Muslims must be clear in mind that we are only to please Allah SWT for during our 'solat' (prayers), we would supplicate: "Surely, my prayer, my sacrifice, my life, and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the Worlds." (Qur'an, 6: 162)

To be on Allah's straight path, we must ask for His help - as we mention at least 17 times in our 'solat' (Eh'dinas siratalmustaqim) and we must seek knowledge for only he who knows his own self knows Allah SWT.

And if we want to 'live happily in this world and Hereafter', worked hard for it, there is no short cut to success.  Yes work hard and pray hard for Hijra is to implement our belief

Zulhijah 21, 1442: The beauty of sacrificing animals in Islam

In the name of Allah, Most Merciful, Most Compassionate; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.

Reflection

"Anyone who obeys the Messenger has obeyed God..." (Nisaa 4:80)

TIME flies very fast; now Dhul-hijjah, the  last month of the year of the Muslim calendar, is about to end. The year 1442 Hijra would end in a week time and Malaysian Muslims would celebrate 'Maal Hijrah' or 'Awal Muharam' (the first day of the new year) most likely on Tuesday,August 10th.

This hajj month of Dhul-hijjah commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim a.s. (peace be upon him) to sacrifice his beloved son, Prophet Ismail a.s. as an act of obedience to Allah SWT.

Muslims who can afford are encouraged to sacrifice their best domesticated animals such as cow, sheep and goat as symbol of Prophet Ibrahim’s a.s willingness to sacrifice his only son to his second wife, Hajar (Hagar).

In Malaysia, during the festive of  'Eid Adha' (10, 11,12,13th Dhul-hijjah), thousands of animals were slaughtered by individuals and various groups which organized the events such as masjids' committee members.

The meat of the sacrificed animals were then distributed to the poor and needy nevertheless the rich too were given the meat as presents. 

Regarding this aspect in a 'tazkirah' (Islamic lesson), I heard an 'ustaz' (religious teacher) saying sacrificing animals to God (Allah SWT) but distributing the meat to the needy display and prove the beauty of Islam.

"We sacrifice the animals just to please Allah SWT, but Allah does not need the meat. We give away the meat for the benefit of fellow human beings. It is such a  beauty; compare it with some 'praying rituals' carry out by men of other beliefs where the items 'sacrificed' such as food and fruits such as oranges and apples are left to rot under trees or are being washed away in waters of rivers and seas," said the ustaz.

Regarding the act of sacrificing animals, Allah SWT says: "Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may glorify Allah for that (to) which He has guided you; and give good tidings to the doers of good." (Surah Al-Hajj 22: 37)

'Subhanallah' (Glory be to God), Allah SWT The Mighty Rich does not need the meat; is is meant to feed the poor. 'Alhamdulillah' (All praise is due to Allah) nowadays Muslims of Malaysia have made themselves available almost everywhere at poor countries of the world to sacrifice animals there. 

Troops of Malaysian Malaysian volunteers and workers are having their arms busy in countries such as Cambodia, Philippines (southern part of the country), Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand (southern part of it) and far away lands such as Sudan during the days of sacrificing the animals that is on the day of Eid Adha (10th Dhul-hijjah) and the days of Tashreek - 11, 12 and 13th of Dhul-hijjah.

Of course regarding the sacrificing of animals during Eid, the Holy Land is a place where hundred thousands of cows, camels and sheep are slaughtered; and during a hajj season a few years back, Saudi Arabia’s prestigious sacrificial meat utilization program sent the meat of one million heads of sheep and 10,000 cows and camels to the poor and needy in many poor countries, as well as Syrian refugees.

It was reported that its inception in 1983, the project has utilized and distributed meat of more than 16 million livestock, amongst the poor in Saudi Arabia and 27 other countries. Subhanallah, the sacrificing of animals by Muslims during Eid Adha truly benefited people through out the globe; it clearly points up to the 'beauty of Islam'.

While Muslims worldwide are celebrating Eid Adha, some three million very, very lucky men and women have been chosen by Allah SWT to be His guests performing hajj in the Holy Land. 

Dhul-hijjah is the month Muslim perform hajj, with its peak when they do ‘wukuf’ (to stop or gather) in Arafah (or Arafat) on the 9th Dhul-hijjah.

Before leaving their hotel rooms for 'wukuf' beginning on the 7-8th Dhul-hijjah, pilgrims wear their 'hajj attires' and they are in the state of 'ihram'. They are recommended to recite this verse: "Labbayk, Allahumma, Labbayk, Labbayk, La Shareeka laka, Labbayk Innal-hamda wan n’mata laka wal-mulk, La shareekala" – (Here I am at Your service, O Lord here I am, No partner do You have, Here I am, Truly the praise and the favour is Yours and the dominion. No partner do You have).

'Wukuf', being the highest 'rukun' (component) of hajj must be rendered; without which hajj does not take place. The requirement is the presence in Arafat, regardless of whether the pilgrim is riding, walking, sitting or moving. In Arafat one is to spend the afternoon from dhuhr (midday)to maghrib (sunset) prayer times making du’aa (supplications) and repenting to leave Arafat with all of one's sins forgiven.

For Muslims who are not performing hajj in their homelands, they are encouraged to perform recommended deeds during the first nine days of Dhul-hijjah such as fasting especially on ‘Wukuf’ day and giving charity. Then during Eid Adha (10th Dhul-Hijjah) when Muslims perform ‘solat’ (Eid prayers) and the days of Tashreek (11, 12, and 13th Dhul-Hijjah) they are recommended to do the slaughter or ‘korban’ (sacrifice) animals (such as sheep and cow).

After Arafah, the pilgrims would then proceed towards Muzdalifah and pick up pebbles there to be used when stoning the Pillar of Aqabah or Qubra on Eid Adha (10th Dhul-Hijjah).

In Mina, they are required to stay for three nights where they will stone the three ‘jamrahs’ beginning with the first Pillar (i.e. the one which is furthest from Makkah), followed by the middle Pillar and lastly the Pillar of Aqabah. The pilgrims will also shave their heads or cut their hair and then proceed to Makkah to perform the Tawaf Al-Ifadah (circling the Kaabah seven times which is an essential part of Hajj) and then perform Sa’y (walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa).

While performing their hajj rituals many Malaysian pilgrims prefer to bring along their du'aa (supplication) books. A few years back while performing hajj, I too prefer to read from the books; if you had full concentration especially when 'you were alone' even though in actual fact there were thousands of people around you, it would not be surprised if you were in tears, sobbing admitting your past sins and beg forgiveness from the Almighty. 

Among the supplications, I read: "O Allah! I ask of Your integrity and soundness in my religion, my life, my family, and my possessions.

O Allah! Cover my shame, pacify my fears, guard me from what is in front of me and behind me, from what is on my right and on my left, over my head and under my feet.

O Allah! Grant health to my body. O Allah grants health to my hearing. O Allah! Grant heath to my sight. There is no deity except You.

O Allah! You are my Lord. There is no deity except You. You are my Creator and I am Your creature. I try to keep my covenant with You and to live in the hope of Your promise as well as I can. I seek refuge in You from my own evil deeds. I acknowledge Your favours to me, and I acknowledge my sins. Forgive me my sins, for there is no one who can forgive sins except You.

O Allah! I seek refuge in You from worry and sorrow. I seek refuge in You from impotence and sloth, from stinginess and cowardice, and I seek refuge in You from the burden of debt and from being humbled by men.

O Allah! Make the beginning of this day good, the middle prosperous, and the end successful. I ask You to grant me the good of this world and of the Hereafter. O Most Merciful of all Who show us mercy!

O Allah! You hear my words, You behold my situation, You know what is open and what is hidden within me; nothing is hidden from You. It is me alone who is in need, a humble seeker of Your forgiveness. I beseech You with humility in my heart, with trembling and fear, in prostration and utter helplessness.

O Allah! Grant me soundness of belief, goodness of character, forgiveness of my sins, and Your eternal pleasure in the Hereafter. Ameen

Zulhijah 20, 1442: Berhijrah dengan mengkoreksi diri, keluarga

Dengan Nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang, selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w.

Renungan

"Hai anak keturunan Adam, sesungguhnya Kami telah menurunkan kepadamu pakaian untuk perhiasan, dan pakaian takwa itu adalah yang paling baik." (Maksud Surah Al-A'raf Ayat 26)

TANGGAL 10 Ogos nanti akan bermulalah tahun baharu 1443 Hijrah. Tahun baharu bermakna semakin kuranglah umur kita - diri kita semakin hampir untuk menemui Allah SWT.

Sempena tahun baharu ini, alangkah eloknya kita bermuhasabah diri, merenung apa yang telah dilakukan sepanjang tahun lalu dan sebelumnya serta berusaha untuk melakukan yang terbaik sekarang ini, selagi hayat masih dikandung badan.

Bijak pandai membahagikan masa kepada tiga keadaan - semalam, hari ini dan esok. Semalam sudah menjadi sejarah, esok hanya Dia yang mengetahuinya. Apa yang ada pada kita adalah hari ini, itulah modal kita yang perlu digunakannya semaksimum mungkin untuk mencipta bahagia pada hari muka.

Sebagai makhluk-Nya yang lemah, dalam mengharungi kehidupan kita memerlukan panduan-Nya. Panduan itu telah pun disampaikan kepada kekasih-Nya, Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. Daripada sinilah kita dapat mengukur sama ada kehidupan kita berada di jalan benar atau sudah terpesong jauh kerana Nabi s.a.w. pernah mengungkapkan bahawa jika kita berpandukan al-Quran dan hadisnya kita tidak akan sesat selama-lamanya.

Bagi memulakan muzakarah, eloklah kita mulai menyemak diri sendiri dan keluarga kita. Disebabkan dalam dunia moden ini, hampir semua orang bercakap mengenai pendapatan (anak-anak muda sekarang menamakannya wang masyuuk), bertanyalah kepada diri sendiri secara jujur apakah sumber perolehan kita halal.

Berdasarkan pengamatan kita, ramai juga orang Islam tidak peduli akan sumber halal/haram pendapatan mereka. Ada yang terbabit dalam maksiat secara nyata seperti merompak, melacurkan diri, terbabit dalam operasi najis minuman keras, dadah dan perjudian tetapi sejumlah lagi walaupun mempunyai pekerjaan mulia seperti pemimpin negara, ahli politik, pegawai kerajaan, ahli perniagaan, ketua kampung, malahan guru, ustaz dan penulis juga terbabit dalam amalan keji seperti rasuah, menerima wang haram, menyalahgunakan kedudukan dan sebagainya.

Jika rezeki kita daripada sumber yang haram bagaimana kita mahu membina keluarga bahagia atau istilah polular sekarang, rumahku syurgaku? Pada peringkat ini saja kita sudah sangkut, jadi usahlah sibuk untuk melahirkan anak-anak yang cemerlang sekali gus anak soleh yang doanya akan menjadi dambaan ibu bapa apabila kita berada dalam kubur nanti jika kita masih bergelumang, bermati-matian mencari rezeki di lubuk yang haram.

Kemudian marilah kita mengkoreksi keluarga kita, adakah kehidupan yang kita jalani menepati jalan hidup Rasulullah s.a.w. Kita ambil bab paling penting iaitu solat. Jika ibu bapa liat untuk solat, bagaimana anak-anak mahu solat? Ambil waktu subuh sebagai contoh. Ada pak haji boleh bangun awal untuk ke masjid, tetapi anak siapakah itu yang masih dibuai mimpi bersama syaitan sehingga matahari sudah tersembul di langit? Apakah pak haji seorang saja mahu masuk ke syurga sedangkan anak-anak dibiarkan mencari jalan ke neraka?

Mak aji juga bagus, dapat bersolat subuh awal waktu, tetapi bagaimana anak-anaknya? Mak aji ketika ke bandar, berpakaian tudung labuh, bagus tetapi siapakah anak gadis di sisinya yang berpakaian seluar sendat dengan baju-T tanpa lengan dengan rambutnya berwarna bulu jagung (diwarnakan)? Apakah mak aji sahaja mahu ke syurga, anak dibiarkan menempah laluan ke neraka?

Selain koreksi diri, koreksilah si anak-anak, apakah mereka solat lima waktu sehari? Jawapannya sangat mendukacitakan, satu kajian menunjukkan hanya 20 peratus anak-anak muda solat, bakinya bagaimana? Kemudian periksa rukun Islam lain, sudah disempurnakan oleh kita dan anak-anak?

Bagaimana puasa kita, bagaimana zakat kita; sudah hajikah kita? Apakah kita tergolong dalam jenis orang yang sudah ke London, Paris, New York dan Hatyai tetapi ke Makkah saja saya belum?

Sesudah puas kita mengkoreksi diri sendiri dan keluarga, renunglah rumah jiran kita. Apakah kita hidup berjiran berpandukan ajaran Rasul. Apakah kita daripada jenis yang makan kenyang, jiran kelaparan kita tidak 'ambil pot'? Ataupun kita tidak langsung kenal jiran kita, ataupun kita jenis suka berkelahi dengan jiran membabitkan hal-hal seperti rumput karpet, pokok, bunyi bising dan binatang peliharaan.

Kemudian tanyalah diri sendiri sama ada kita jenis yang tidak boleh kalah dengan jiran. Jika jiran pakai Kancil kita pakai Rusa; jika jiran pakai Wira kita pakai Perdana; jika jiran berperabot jati, kita order perabot dari Itali. Persaingan ini memerlukan wang yang banyak, jika wang gaji tidak cukup, kita pun 'bedal' wang rasuah, wang pelincir, wang ehsan dan sebagainya.

Demikianlah manusia dilahirkan tamak, tidak akan puas sehingga tanah memasuki hidung dan mulut (berada dalam kuburlah) atau sudah diberikan satu gunung emas, dia mahu tiga atau empat lagi. 

Sehubungan dengan nafsu jahat diri saya dan tuan puan ini, sempena tahun baharu Hijrah 1443, marilah melakukan muhasabah dengan mengkoreksi diri dan keluarga sendiri dulu sebelum terjun ke gelanggang masyarakat, bangsa, negara dan ummah.

Zulhijah 19, 1442: Pada ketika kita berdoa untuk Malaysia kita...

Dengan Nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang, selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w. 

Renungan 

Hadis riwayat Abu Hazim, daripada Abu Hurairah yang dikeluarkan oleh Muslim, bermaksud: "Tidak akan hancur dunia ini (kiamat) hingga ada seorang laki-laki yang melewati kuburan lalu ia berguling-guling di atasnya seraya berkata, 'alangkah baiknya sekiranya aku berada di tempat penghuni kubur ini.' Hal ini bukan kerana faktor agama tetapi kerana adanya musibah." 

ALHAMDULILLAH, syukur kepada Allah SWT kerana mengurniakan kita nikmat-nikmat yang tak terhitung. Sekali lagi Alhamdulillah kerana sekarang ini kesedaran agama tersangat tinggi termasuk di kalangan media massa.

Kerap kita mendengar dan melihat doa-doa diungkapkan untuk menyelamatkan Malaysia, negara kita yang tercinta daripada bala bencana termasuk pandemik Covid-19 sekarang ini. Syukur, sama ada siaran di TV dan radio kerap dibacakan doa-doa ini. Doa untuk kesejahteraan dan keselamatan semua rakyat dan negara Malaysia. Amin.

Asas agama kita mudah - tunaikan perintah Allah SWT dan meninggalkan larangan-Nya. Alhamdulillah dalam menunaikan perintah Allah SWT, masyarakat berlumba-lumba ke arah kebaikan. Malah dalam kemelut akibat pandemik Covid-19 ini, berlumba-lumbalah orang awam, pertubuhan dan kerajaan menghulur tangan membantu rakyat (orang susah). 

Malah banyak juga NGO bertebaran di luar negara menghulurkan bantuan termasuk melakukan korban di pelbagai negara seperti Yaman, Syria, Palestin, Sudan apatah lagi di Kemboja dan Filipina.

Namun agak menyedihkan dalam kita bersungguh-sungguh membuat kebaikan itu, termasuk, memanjatkan doa-doa agar Allah SWT mengasihani kita...nampaknya kita tak berapa berusaha pula untuk menyekat perkara-perkara yang Allah SWT benci...kita sungguh-sungguh takut Allah SWT akan murka kepada kita...

Ambil contoh mudah, atas nama MEWAKILI Malaysia, ada atlet kita dalam Sukan Olimpik Tokyo  ditunjukkan secara meluas dalam media massa kita dalam keadaan.............(subhanallah, malu untuk kita ungkapkan di sini). 

Ya, atlet ini mewakili Malaysia...dia membawa dirinya mewakili kita semua...atas nama rakyat dan negara Malaysia. Sekalipun itu perlakukan dan pembawaan dirinya, sebagai rakyat Malaysia dan negara Malaysia, kita bimbang kita akan dipertanggungjawabkan di depan Allah SWT nanti. Apa kita nak jawab di depan Allah SWT...atlet ini sebahagian daripada kita kerana dia membawa bendera Malaysia iaitu sebahagian daripada kita...apa kita buat, ada buat teguran?

Dalam kita merintih-rintih memohon Allah SWT menyelamatkan kita pada ketika kita yang sama kita menyokong maksiat kepada Allah SWT. Kita tak berkutik pun (buat teguran dan bantahan) tentang hal ini, malah pemimpin-pemimpin sebuah parti yang dulunya BERKOBAR-KOBAR menentang hal-hal sebegini seperti penganjuran ratu cantik dan penyediaan arak dalam kapal terbang, tidak BERSUARA pun. Mereka sekarang sudah menjadi sebahagian daripada kerajaan, sewajarnya merekalah yang ke depan menghalang MAKSIAT ini.

Itulah, kita terus berdoa dan berdoa, namun dalam pada yang sama buat-buat buta pada hal-hal MAKSIAT ini atau setidak-tidak kita bersubahat kerana tak buat teguran pun atau kepada yang sudah BERKUASA tu tentu ada sedikit sebanyak KUASA...ya Allah tolonglah kami..kami sebagai rakyat tak berdaya dalam hal ini...La Haulawah...semoga Allah SWT mengampunkan kita dan mengangkat pandemik ini...

ARTIKEL IRINGAN 

Ladies, please cover up according the syariah

ONCE, my wife pleaded me to take the family for an outing in Putrajaya - at first I declined as I was too tired but after a while giving it a thought, I agreed because 'as you know', a husband at times needs to please or fulfill his wife needs (fancies)!

In IOC City Plaza in Putrajaya, I choose to sit on a bench to read various newspapers I brought along while my wife and the children went for their 'shopping spree', thronging along the hundreds of shoppers in the mall, tagged as one of the largest shopping complex in the country.

I choose to concentrate on my reading because I was aware the surroundings and ongoing in the mall 'was not good for my eyes'. Patrons especially young girls were in 'their best attires' (in their eyes)...unfortunately some of them were in skimpy, tight jeans that could fasten the heart beats of men, including the 'kopiah' (skull cap) wearing 'pak haji' (those who had performed hajj) like me!

So to avoid 'dosa kering' (to commit sin) of the eyes, I choose to read my papers silently; a while later I felt my shoulder and body being rubbed...I looked up and realized that a teenager girl was by my side. I ignored the situation; but when the girl raised up and pulled down her short T-shit over her buttocks and then strengthened her very tight pants, my 'dirty and sinned eyes' caught 'a shocking scene' -  the colour of her spender could be faintly seen while it's lining was very clear!

At first I choose to be silent - but a hadith of the Prophet s.a.w. kept ringing in my ears: Narrated by Abu Sa'id al-Khudri: I heard the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him, s.a.w.) as saying: 'He who amongst you sees something abominable should modify it with the help of his hand; and if he has not strength enough to do that, then he should do it with his tongue; and if he has not strength enough to do even that, then he should (at least abhor it) from his heart; and that is the least of faith.' (Sahih Muslim Hadith 79)

I raised from my seat and realized the girl was among a family of six - five children whom I assumed as siblings and a woman perhaps their mother - who were sitting and standing near the bench. I greeted (gave salam to) them and soon was in a good conversation with the woman. Yes, she who was wearing a 'tudung' (head covering) was the children's mother. I then knew the ages of the three girls and two boys were between nine (9) months and 14 years and they were from Nilai.

The toddler was in a baby cart pushed by the 14 year old eldest girl who was in a tight jeans and not wearing a 'tudung'. After getting 'accustomed' to them, I then politely asked the woman whether I could gave a 'teguran' (give advice). She smiled and I took the golden opportunity to 'talk' about her children's appearance.

At first she 'retaliated' saying that all her girls wore 'tudungs' when they went to school...and when I told her that as a 'pak haji' (and old man who had performed hajj) I was 'malu' (shy) to the many not yet Muslims in the mall that a Muslim girl could dress that way (her underwear could be seen from behind); she was silent.

I added that her children were her valuable assets...and before I could end the sentence she continued; "anak-anak adalah saham akhirat untuk ibu bapa" (our children are our assets for our well- being in the Hereafter). With that, she rose up and with her children left me...I could felt the dryness in my throat.

I was thinking to ask about the absence of 'a man' (her husband) among them; but it was all over...silently I went back to my seat and continued reading. But my mind was not on the papers but did the 'thinking, analyzing and doing reflections'.

If she had a husband, how could he be not bothered about his children especially the girls' dressing. Subhanallah, the character of a good husband is not the one who provided for all the material pleasures demanded by his wife and children but who was able to guide them for their safety in this world and more importantly in the Hereafter.

In the Qur’an, Allah SWT says with the meaning: “O! You who believe, save yourself and your families from Hell-fire, whose fuel are humans and stones (idols) over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who flinch not (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allah, but do (precisely) what they are commanded.” (At-Tahrim 66: 6)

Allah SWT orders His believing servants to protect themselves and their families from the Punishment of Allah, through 'taqwa' (fear/wariness of offending Allah) and ordering their families to do so. 

Protection from Hellfire is through 'taqwa' and sticking to the Din (religion) of Islam. Besides, one should advise his family, including parents, children, brothers and sisters, to fear Allah and stick to His Din, through recommending each other to follow Al-Haqq (the Truth), cooperate in righteousness and 'taqwa', enjoining Ma`ruf (that which is judged as good, beneficial, or fitting by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect) and forbidding Munkar (that which is unacceptable or disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect). 

Such should be the state of the Mu'min (believer) with his family and Muslim brethren; by calling to Allah SWT, he seeks to save himself and others from the Punishment of Allah. This matter needs patience, sincerity to Allah, truthfulness, and persistence. The most deserving of your good companionship and kindness is your family and relatives. The Prophet (s.a.w.) said:  All of you are guardians and are responsible for your charges; the Imam (i.e. ruler) is a guardian and is responsible of his charges and the man is a guardian and is responsible of his family.  The greatest responsibility is to take care of what saves them from the Punishment of Allah, by advising them to fear Allah

Muslims women should cover up their bodies, not displaying them. Showing off one’s ‘awrah’ (parts that elicit desire), what’s more in skimpy and 'translucent' outfits of which 'spenders could be seen' was totally against Islam.

The man who sees his wife, daughters and sisters going out in the street with make-up, uncovered heads and bare arms, clothed but seeming naked and does nothing to stop this disobedience in Islam, has surely lost his manhood, abandoned Islam and earned the wrath of Allah SWT. He is a ‘dayus’. There is no way out of this predicament but sincere repentance which will wake him up, restore his manhood and set him back in the straight path.

If the woman whom I met was an 'ibu tunggal' (single mother); then she could bucked up her religious knowledge; but from her saying..."anak-anak adalah saham akhirat ibu bapa..." she must be a knowledgeable person but what made her seemed not bothered about her girls' dressing? Perhaps she had no control over her children as what has had happened to the majority of our young generation nowadays who were very much influenced by the Western or lately the Korean's way of life.

Regarding how the West treats women, an American woman convert, Iman Daglas in her book, ‘A Well-Guarded Treasure’ (Darussalam) wrote: “People are so eager to simulate the people of the West, while in America and Europe, morals have deteriorated to the point that they no longer exist.

“There people would give anything to reverse the moral decline, yet it is too late. Things have gotten so out of control that there is no turning back. It is truly the most overwhelming problem facing the 21st century.

“Women, especially, are treated with absolutely no respect. To so many men, women are nothing but objects, to use any way they choose. When he is done with her, he just throws her aside and goes on to the next women.

“Women have allowed this to happen, by giving up moral and modesty, by not guarding their chastity and virtue; they have allowed themselves to become nothing more than cheap objects of men's desires.”

How true are these words I thought, how could a Muslim girl walk around in a public place with her 'spender' could be seen? The girl I met 'was not alone' - nowadays it is common to see women in tight fittings such as jeans that reveal the shape of their 'buttocks' (sorry to mention this) and legs and wear short and tight upper attires such as T-shirts that reveal their bosoms! 

So, ooh women; please cover up properly...accordingly to the 'syariah' (Islamic standards of requirements) and do not forget to imply them to your love ones such as your children. Please, do not make the hearts of men including 'pak hajis' beats 'out of control'!!!

Zulhijah 18, 1442: Stay safe at old age (Selamat pada usia tua)

In the name of Allah, Most Merciful, Most Compassionate; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. 

Reflection

There is no god but He, Praise and glory to Him; Far is He from having the partners they associate unto Him. (Tauba 9:31) 

LAST year, an old mate emailed an interesting article on how to stay 'safe' at old age: it reminded that "only you can save yourself safely at old age." It was a long article; here I extract some points raised by the writer. 

The articles gave ten tips; that are: (1) do not retire; (2) live in your own place to enjoy independence, privacy and a solo life; (3) hold on to your nest egg, bank deposits and assets; (4) don't believe your children's promise to care for you when you grow old priorities change; and (5) expand your circle of friends.

Next; (6) is be well groomed and smelling fresh of spring water all the time; (7) do not meddle in the life of your children; (8) do not use old age as your shield and justification for turning grumpy; (9) listen to what others may say; and lastly; (10) most important of all have MONEY - your last power in old age! 

Regarding money, the writer emphasized: "If you are broke at old age, nobody, not even your children will come close to you. If you are broke at old age, not even your wife will respect you. If you are broke at old age, you become a parasite. Money buys you power when you need it most at old age. Remember: No money...no talk. 

"Sorry, but this is true! No money means: no "honey", no holidays, no wine, no friends, no social life, no phone calls, no email, Nothing!" 

Seeing the word WINE, I guessed this article was written by a person with 'a secular mind', perhaps we could only give a thought about his recommendations but think carefully and wisely before implementating them! 

Well, I too was scared of becoming old. But can we stop it? The answer is no; there is no cure for old age. The Prophet s.a.w. (peace be upon him) said: "Allah has not created a disease except that He has created a cure for it; except for a single disease; old age (At-Tirmidhi) 

In a few days we would celebrate the new Hijra year of 1443. Another year has gone; we are getting a year older. It also means that we are one step closer to our graves; as for me, perhaps I should start counting my balance years in life for example the Prophet s.a.w. dies at 60 (if we use the Hijra calendar), thus if I were to 'follow the Prophet's footsteps', then my years of existence in this world would diminish from 9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1...and into my own grave! 

Regarding loss of time time, Niyazi-i-Misri, one of the sufi scholars, put into these words: "Every day another stone has broken off from my life. My life is getting ruined! But why am I so heedless?" 

In Surah Al-Asr; Allah SWT says (translation): 1. By the essence of all time. 2. Verily, all humankind is in deep loss. 3. Except those who believed (in the oneness of Allah) and performed good work and reminded each other of the truth and reminded each other to be patient. 

In a hadith, `Abdullah bin Busr Al-Aslami (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah s.a.w. said, "The best of people is one whose life is long and his conduct is good." (At-Tirmidhi) 

Longevity of life is a blessing, provided it is accompanied by Faith and good deeds; otherwise, the longer life one has, the greater will be the number of sins. Such a long life is disastrous. 

A long life is associated with old age. And then it is death. Nobody could escape it. Perhaps, this lesson (tazkirah) which I followed from an 'ustaz' (religious teacher) and had a great impact on me, can 'spark' readers lives. 

The 'ustaz' asked why in our life we are crazy and busy heaping material wealth including money which we would not be using them but we would leave them sooner or later. 

But men are men, they are greedy for material wealth; in a hadith narrated by Anas bin Malik, the Prophet s.a.w. said: "If Adam's son had a valley full of gold, he would like to have two valleys, for nothing fills his mouth except dust. And Allah forgives him who repents to him." (Bukhary) 

Perhaps you have money at old age; but that would not help you to lead a peaceful, tranquil, happy and blessing life. One of the most wisest person in the world, Sayidina Ali bin Abi Talib said: "Learned men live after death; ignorant men are dead although alive." He also said that you need to guard your property and wealth but if you have knowledge it would protect you. 

If money and power could protect or of any help when we are at old age, then how come many world top leaders from Pharoahs and Hamman in ancient times to Ferdinand Marcos in modern times lead miserable lives at the end? 

Abu Hurairah narrates that once the Holy Prophet s.a.w. said: "Let us show you the reality of this world." I requested him to do that. He took me to a place of refuse outside Madinah. There I saw human skulls and bones sunk in filth with dirty rags scattered all around.

Adressing me he said: "These are the human skulls that embodied brains filled with greed. These people were like many amongst you who live today. Like all of you they pinned their hopes on things worldly. These skulls are lying without skins and after a few days they will become part of the earth. 

"They struggled hard to eat the spicy dishes only to swallow this filth today. The state in which they exist now cannot be tolerably seen by those who have eyes to see. The very sight of those who enjoyed the fragnance of tasty food makes you hate them. 

"These dirty rags are the worn-outs of the gaudy dresses that made men proud. Now they are at the mercy of winds which move them the way they like. And these are the bones of those animals that carried human beings only to make them feel proud. Anyone can shed a tear or two at the tragic end." Abu Hurairah stated that the tears welled up in his eyes and he wept bitterly. 

We should, therefore, consider the passing life of this world as a means towards our ultimate goal. Yes, this material world is not the main object of our life but a means towards a higher goal. The purpose of man's life is 'service to Allah' and nothing else. - Pearls of the Prophet (Islamic Outreach-ABIM) 

This life is a preparation of what Allah has in store for us. The life of the Hereafter is eternal, and it is that which the believer should strive for. Hence let us not be deceived by the glamour and spendour around us. This life should never be wasted by merely seeking comfortable and rich life of worldly happiness (including having a lot of money at old age) because Allah tells us: "And surely the Hereafter is indeed better than this world." 

In conclusion, 'have Allah SWT (and not material wealth including money) in your heart' especially during old age, 'insa-Allah' (God willing) you would be sound and save in this world and Hereafter!

Zulhijah 17, 1442 (Semarak Haji, penutup): Haji medan terbaik muhasabah diri

Dengan Nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang, selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w.

Renungan

Hadis sahih, Nu'man bin Basyir meriwayatkan Rasulullah s.a.w. bersabda: "Ketahuilah bahawa di dalam tubuh ada segumpal daging yang apabila ia baik, maka baiklah seluruh tubuh dan apabila ia rosak, maka rosaklah seluruh tubuh. Ingatlah bahawa perkara itu adalah hati." - Bukhari dan Muslim

Wasiat kepada semua terutama insan bergelar haji dan hajah 

ALHAMDULILLAH, segala puji bagi Allah. Selawat dan salam untuk penutup para nabi dan rasul, Muhammad bin Abdullah, beserta keluarga dan para sahabatnya.

Antara nikmat Allah yang agung adalah Dia telah menjadikan kita sebagai bahagian daripada umat manusia terbaik, Nabi Muhammad shallallahu 'alaihi wasallam. Yaitu dengan menjadikan Islam sebagai agama kita; "Barang siapa mencari agama selain agama Islam, maka sekali-kali tidaklah akan diterima (agama itu) daripadanya, dan dia di akhirat termasuk orang-orang yang rugi." (QS. Ali Imran: 85)

Al-Quran sebagai undang-undang kita, "Sesungguhnya al-Quran ini memberikan petunjuk kepada (jalan) yang lebih lurus." (QS. Al-Isra': 9)

Muhammad shallallahu 'alaihi wasallam sebagai nabi kita, "Dan sesungguhnya kamu benar-benar berbudi pekerti yang agung." (QS. Al-Qalam: 4)

Dan Kaabah sebagai kiblat kita, "Dan di mana saja kamu berada, palingkanlah mukamu ke arahnya." (QS. Al-Baqarah: 144)

Hal ini mengharuskan kita bersyukur kepada Allah, Zat yang Maha Tinggi.

Selanjutnya diberikan beberapa nasihat bagi orang yang baharu saja pulang dari Tanah Suci dan insan bergelar haji dan hajah, semoga hal ini bermanfaat bagi kita semua:

1. Syukur kepada Allah Taala kerana kita telah berhasil menyelesaikan kewajiban yang agung dan penuh barakah ini. "Sesungguhnya jika kamu bersyukur, pasti Aku (Allah) akan menambah (nikmat) kepadamu." (QS. Ibrahim: 7)

2. Hendaknya haji menjadi titik tolak perubahan dalam hidup kita. "Sesungguhnya Allah tidak mengubah keadaan sesuatu kaum sehingga mereka mengubah keadaan yang ada pada diri mereka sendiri." (QS. Ar-Ra'du: 11)

3. Banyak orang pulang haji dengan membawa hidayah, yang paling pokok adalah kita pulang haji dengan membawa hidayah. "Tunjukilah kami jalan yang lurus." (QS. Al-Fatihah: 7)

4. Kita baru saja meninggalkan pendidikan dan pelatihan iman dan amal, kewajiban kita melanjutkan apa yang sudah kita pelajari. "Demi masa. Sesungguhnya manusia itu benar-benar berada dalam kerugian, kecuali orang-orang yang beriman dan mengerjakan amal saleh dan nasihat menasihati supaya menaati kebenaran dan nasihat menasihati supaya menetapi kesabaran." (QS. Al-'Ashr: 1-3)

5. Jangan lupakan, "Sesungguhnya orang-orang mukmin adalah bersaudara." (QS. Al-Hujurat: 10)

6. Betapa seringnya engkau angkat tanganmu berdoa kepada Allah pada hari-hari yang baik itu, maka jangan engkau hentikan, "doa adalah ibadah." (HR. Abu Dawud, Nasai, Ibnu Maja dan dishahihkan oleh at-Tirmidzi)

7. Jadikan seluruh hidupmu sesuai dengan sunnah Nabi shallallahu 'alaihi wasallam dan bersungguh-sungguhlah untuk mengamalkannya. "...Tidaklah hambaku senantiasa mendekatkan dirinya kepada-Ku dengan amal-amal sunnah hingga Aku mencintainya..." (HR. Bukhari)

8. Engkau telah kembali dengan membawa perasangka baik kepada Allah. Dosa-dosamu juga telah terlebur. Kondisimu laksana bayi yang baru dilahirkan oleh seorang ibu. Maka janganlah engkau padamkan cahaya di hatimu dengan lumpur dosa.

9. Boleh jadi engkau juga telah berjanji kepada Allah untuk bertaubat (meninggalkan dosa), maka jangan engkau ulangi lagi. "Ya Tuhan kami, janganlah Engkau jadikan hati kami condong kepada kesesatan sesudah Engkau beri petunjuk kepada kami..." (QS. Ali Imran: 8)

10. Saranan yang utama untuk meneguhkan keistiqamahanmu adalah dengan melaksanakan dakwah (mengajak manusia) kepada Allah. "Siapakah yang lebih baik perkataannya daripada orang yang menyeru kepada Allah, mengerjakan amal yang saleh dan berkata: "Sesungguhnya aku termasuk orang-orang yang berserah diri?" (QS. Fushilat: 33)

Saudaraku, para hujjaj, setelah pulang haji tanyakan pada dirimu, apakah engkau masih merasakan letih dan lelah? Pasti kamu akan menjawab, "tidak." Begitulah hidup di dunia, kita merasa lelah kerana Allah, kemudian kita akan bersantai dan bersenang-senang untuk selama-lamanya di syurga yang tinggi, yang tak akan pernah terdengar perkataan sia-sia di dalamnya.

Kepada Allah-lah kita memohon kebaikan dan kurnia-Nya. 

Zulhijah 16, 1442: That corpse was 'actually' me...

In the name of Allah, Most Merciful, Most Compassionate; blessings and peace be upon Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. 

Reflection 

"Anyone who obeys the Messenger has obeyed God..." (Nisaa 4:80)

YESTERDAY one of the aunt passed away. Well it was a reminder for all, especially for me...looking at the corpse being brought up from the grave, a sudden awareness (insaf) crept inside my heart.

Well, to all human beings, one day all of us, I included would be reduced to become corpses wrapped inside our 'kain kafan' and then buried six feet underground. 

That corpse that I saw was 'actually' me, I could feel the smallness and weakness in me in front of The Mighty Creator Allah SWT. Indeed He is, Allahuakbar, God The Greatest.

All life ends in death. Therefore, let us remember that a certain time is fixed for us when we too will be abandoned to the darkness of our graves.

The day would come when we could no longer talk and boast in this world; we would not able to lift our hands and legs. 

We would lay motionless on our death beds; we would be buried in our graves, and in this 'greedy modern era' no one can guarantee that 'our bodies' would not be removed from our 'resting places' where roads and buildings would be built on the land in the near future.

Note that the world is only a play, Allah SWT says in the Qur'an, 57: 20, "Know that the life of this world is only play, and idle talk, and pageantry, and boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children; as the likeness of vegetation after rain, whereof the growth is pleasing to the husbandman, but afterward it drieth up and tho seest it turning yellow, then it becometh straw. And in the Hereafter there is grevious punishment, and also forgiveness from Allah and His good pleasure, whereas the life of the world is but a matter of illusion." 

And regarding the reality of the world, Abu Hurairah narrates that once the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him, s.a.w.) said: "Let me show you the reality of this world." I requested him to do that. He took me to a place of refuse outside Madina. There I saw human skulls and bones sunk in filth with dirty rags scattered all around. 

Addressing me he said: "These are the human skulls embodied brains filled with greed. These people were like many amongst you who live today. Like all of you they pinned their hopes on things worldly. 

"These skulls are lying without skins and after a few days they will become part of the earth. They struggled hard to eat the spicy dishes only to swallow filth today. The state in which they exist now cannot be tolerably seen by those who have eyes to see. 

"The very side of those who enjoyed the fragnance of tasty food makes you hate them. These dirty rags are the worn-outs of the gaudy dresses that made men proud. Now they are at the mercy of winds which move them the way they like. 

"And these are the bones of those animals that carried human beings only to make them feel proud. Anyone can shed a tear or two at the tragic end." Abu Hurairah stated that the tears welled up in his eyes and he wept bitterly. 

Zulhijah 15, 1442 (Semarak Haji): Ragam jemaah antarabangsa...

Dengan nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang; selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w.

Renungan

"Dan serulah kepada umat manusia untuk mengerjakan ibadat haji, nescaya mereka akan datang beramai-ramai mengunjungi (rumah Engkau, Baitul Lahil Haram) dengan keadaan ada yang berjalan kaki dan ada yang menunggang berjenis-jenis unta yang kurus disebabkan perjalanan yang datang dari segenap ceruk pelosok dan rantau yang jauh.

"Supaya mereka menyaksikan berbagai-bagai perkara yang mendatangkan faedah kepada mereka, serta memperingati dan menyebut nama Allah, pada hari-hari tertentu (Hari Raya Haji atau Hari Raya Korban pada 10 Zulhijah dan pada hari-hari berikutnya pada 11, 12, dan 13 Zulhijah - Hari Tasyrik) kerana pengurniaan-Nya kepada mereka dengan binatang-binatang ternak (untuk dijadikan korban), dengan demikian makanlah kamu daripadanya (daging binatang-binatang korban itu) dan berilah makan kepada orang yang susah dan fakir miskin." (Maksud Ayat 27-28 Surah al-Haj)

HAJI boleh dikerjakan dengan tiga cara iaitu haji ifrad, tamattu’ dan qiran. Haji ifrad adalah mengerjakan haji dahulu dalam bulan-bulan haji kemudian mengerjakan umrah.

Haji tamattu’ pula mengerjakan umrah terlebih dahulu dalam bulan-bulan haji kemudian dikerjakan haji dalam tahun itu juga manakala haji qiran berniat mengerjakan haji dan umrah serentak dalam bulan-bulan haji dengan mengerjakan amalan haji sahaja atau berniat mengerjakan umrah sahaja tetapi sebelum tawaf dia berniat mengerjakan haji.

Ramai jemaah memilih untuk mengerjakan haji tamattu’ yang sesetengah orang mendakwa haji bersenang-lenang. Mengerjakan haji cara ini menyebabkan seseorang itu kena bayar dam, iaitu seekor kambing.

Biasanya jemaah yang datang awal mengerjakan haji ini kerana pada kali pertama kali sampai mereka menunaikan umrah sehingga tamat dan selepas itu bolehlah membuka pakaian ihram dan terlepas daripada pantang larang ihram.

Sepanjang menunggu tarikh untuk berniat ihram haji di hotel pada 8 Zulhijah seterusnya berwukuf di Arafah pada 9 Zulhijah (sehari sebelum Hari Raya Haji), jemaah berpakaian biasa dan menghabiskan masa untuk solat, tawaf, iktikaf dan pelbagai amalan sunat lain di Masjidilharam.

Adalah molek masa itu dimanfaatkan termasuk untuk bertamah mesra dengan jemaah lain yang datang dari serata dunia. Jemaah antarabangsa ini dapat memberikan input mengenai masyarakat dan negara ini. Saya kira ini amat penting kerana ia sumber pertama bagi memahami situasi di negara masing-masing.

Ketika menunaikan umrah pada Jun beberapa tahun lalu, saya berpeluang berinteraksi dengan sejumlah jemaah negara Arab seperti Palestin, Mesir dan Maghribi. Saya bernasib baik kerana ada jemaah berkenaan tahu berbahasa Inggeris sekalipun mereka ‘merangkak’ menuturkannya.

Seorang jemaah Palestin bernama Yasin yang berasal dari bandar Jericho di Tebing Barat mengkisahkan betapa sukarnya untuk jemaah memasuki seterusnya menunaikan solat di Masjid Al-Aqsa. Katanya, hanya orang berumur 40 tahun ke atas saja dibenarkan solat di Masjid al-Aqsa. Selain itu, katanya, mereka juga dikehendaki membayar sejumlah wang kepada tentera Israel sebelum dibenarkan masuk. Saya terlupa jumlah wang yang disebutkan oleh Yasin, tetapi bayarannya agak besar juga.

Kepada seorang jemaah Mesir saya bertanyakan mengapa pihak berkuasa negaranya menutup pintu sempadan Mesir-Gaza yang menyebabkan bahan keperluan termasuk makanan terhalang daripada dibawa masuk ke wilayah terkepung itu.

Jawapan rakyat Mesir itu memeranjatkan saya. Katanya: “Mesir tidak mahu perisik dan penjahat Israel menyamar sebagai warga Gaza, seterusnya bebas keluar masuk Gaza-Mesir bagi memporak-perandakan rakyat Mesir. Orang Mesir tahu perisik Israel ini mempunyai senjata paling hebat iaitu jenis dadah suntikan yang boleh merosakkan seluruh generasi muda. Mesir tidak mahu perkara ini berlaku sebab itulah ia menutup semua pintu sempadannya dengan Gaza.”

Sukar untuk saya mempercayai apa yang dicakapkan oleh jemaah Mesir itu tetapi memandangkan perbualan kami terjadi dalam Masjidilharam ketika menunggu waktu solat, saya membuka pintu hati saya untuk mempercayainya. “Takkan dia bercakap bohong dalam Masjidilharam,” fikir saya.

Dengan seorang jemaah dari Maghribi, saya dengan dia tidak dapat berbual panjang kerana dia hanya tahu menyebut ‘good’, ‘yes’ dan ‘no’ saja. Selain itu dia banyak tersenyum dan menepuk-nepuk diri saya. Apabila terlihat sebuah buku panduan yang sedang saya belek, dia memintanya dan menyebut ‘good, good’ sebaik melihat doa-doa yang ditulis dalam bahasa Arab.

Dengan jemaah dari China juga saya cuba berinteraksi dan hasilnya adalah senyuman memanjang dan pengulangan sebutan ‘good, good’. Apa yang ‘good’ tidaklah saya ketahui.

Ketika berada dalam Masjidilharam, saya turut terpesona dengan pelbagai karenah jemaah. Ketika menunaikan haji dulu, saya terpegun melihat bagaimana bersungguh-sungguhnya seorang lelaki Arab membaca al-Quran. Selepas puas membaca secara duduk, dia membaca secara berdiri pula. Tempoh itu bukan sekejap, tetapi lama. Kagum saya melihat cara dia membaca sambil berdiri itu.

Bagi saya dia sudah ‘expert’ dalam membaca al-Quran, tetapi apabila terpandang sekumpulan tiga jemaah yang fikir saya dari negara China yang sedang merangkak-rangkak membaca surah-surah ringkas seperti tiga Qul di depan seorang lagi rakan yang saya agak guru mereka, insaflah saya akan kebesaran Illahi.

Saya lihat si guru senyum-senyum melihat anak muridnya tetapi apabila bacaan murid teruk, dia kelihatan bengis, memarahi seterusnya membetulkan bacaan mereka. Saya turut tersenyum melihat senario itu, itulah tanda kebesaran Illahi, tidak semua orang sama pencapaian dan nasib masing-masing. Dunia dengan pelbagai ragam penduduknya, membuatkan insan tersedar dan insaf akan kebesaran-Nya.

Ulasan buku 'Kusaksikan Keajaiban di Tanah Suci'

BUKU ini saya membacanya hanya dalam masa kurang dua jam. Sebuah buku yang menarik, gaya bahasa yang menarik dan apabila selesai baca satu buku, rasa tak puas…saya mahukan lebih banyak…(huhuhu)…
Ianya membawa pembaca bersama-sama terbang ke Makkah dan Madinah dan menyelusuri ibadat haji tersebut. Opps lupa nak cakap sinopsis buku...
Buku ini mengenai perjalanan penulis menunaikan haji sebanyak dua kali dan perbezaannya untuk kali pertama, kedua dan umrah yang dilakukan beliau. Oh ya, bagaimana saya boleh membeli buku ini? 
Pada suatu petang ada sorang akak datang ketuk bilik ofis saya menjual buku…saya kesian kat dia..takkan tak beli apa-apa kot...jadi saya pun belilah buku ni sebab tajuknya menarik dan paling murah antara buku-buku yang dijual oleh akak tersebut (heh heh). Jangan lupa yer, dapatkan buku ni..Memang best sebagai bacaan anda.

Cheers,Zia Anis

Zulhijah 14, 1442: Diat dapat kurangkan kemalangan jalan raya?

Dengan nama Allah Yang Maha Pemurah Lagi Maha Penyayang; selawat dan salam ke atas junjungan besar Nabi Muhammad s.a.w.

Renungan


"Dan serulah kepada umat manusia untuk mengerjakan ibadat haji, nescaya mereka akan datang beramai-ramai mengunjungi (rumah Engkau, Baitul Lahil Haram) dengan keadaan ada yang berjalan kaki dan ada yang menunggang berjenis-jenis unta yang kurus disebabkan perjalanan yang datang dari segenap ceruk pelosok dan rantau yang jauh.

"Supaya mereka menyaksikan berbagai-bagai perkara yang mendatangkan faedah kepada mereka, serta memperingati dan menyebut nama Allah, pada hari-hari tertentu (Hari Raya Haji atau Hari Raya Korban pada 10 Zulhijah dan pada hari-hari berikutnya pada 11, 12, dan 13 Zulhijah - Hari Tasyrik) kerana pengurniaan-Nya kepada mereka dengan binatang-binatang ternak (untuk dijadikan korban), dengan demikian makanlah kamu daripadanya (daging binatang-binatang korban itu) dan berilah makan kepada orang yang susah dan fakir miskin." (Maksud Ayat 27-28 Surah al-Haj)

BERITA nahas jalan raya adalah lumrah dalam akhbar dan media elektronik. Ada kala ia membabitkan kemalangan ngeri mengakibatkan sejumlah orang termasuk sekeluarga meninggal dunia. 

Tidak lama dahulu, ketika mengikuti sebuah tazkirah; terkesan di minda saya apabila ustaz mengingatkan bahawa "kita janganlah termasuk golongan orang yang melakukan pembunuhan di jalan raya yang balasannya tersangatlah dahsyat di akhirat nanti." 

Bagaimana kita boleh disabitkan dengan kesalahan membunuh itu? Ya, bagaimana kita akan terlepas daripada dakwaan membunuh jika kita sebagai pemandu lalai dalam pemanduan kita seperti mengikut hawa nafsu amarah 'memotong dalam situasi yang kita sendiri tak pasti selamat' dan memandu dalam keadaan diri kita terlalu mengantuk dan letih manakala kita sendiri tahu kenderaan kita mempunyai masalah.

Ingatlah, jika memandu dalam keadaan begitu dan ditakdirkan kita terbabit dalam kemalangan yang mengakibatkan diri kita sendiri terbunuh dan juga penumpang kenderaan kita termasuklah anak isteri serta pengguna jalan raya lain terbunuh, terlalu berat tanggungan kita di akhirat nanti seperti tuduhan membunuh diri sendiri dan membunuh orang lain. 

Dan jika ditakdirkan kita selamat, tetapi kaum keluarga kita dan orang lain terbunuh, kita akan hidup sengsara memikirkan bahawa 'kitalah yang telah membunuh mereka'. 

Mungkin hukuman di dunia tidak menyatakan 'kita membunuh' tetapi 'kita sendiri tahu apa yang sudah kita lakukan dan kita akan menanggung derita rasa bersalah sehingga akhir hayat'. 

Firman Allah SWT di dalam al-Quran, surah al-Baqarah, ayat 195; bermaksud, "dan jangan kamu campakkan diri kamu ke dalam kebinasaan!"

Kemalangan jalan raya sekarang ini terlalu banyak dan ada yang 'amat dahsyat'. Hakikatnya, Malaysia adalah antara negara paling tinggi mencatatkan jumlah kemalangan jalan raya di dunia. Kadar kematian dianggarkan 4-5 orang sehari bagi seluruh negara. 

Walaupun pelbagai program keselamatan jalan raya dijalankan, jumlah kemalangan terlalu tinggi. Kenapa ini berlaku dan kaedah apa boleh digunakan bagi mengurangkan kadar kemalangan seterusnya korban jalan raya? 

Bagi merungkai persoalan ini, penulis membawa pembaca menghayati kelas pengajian di sebuah masjid berhampiran kediaman penulis yang tuan gurunya membicarakan bab diat (pampasan) akibat daripada jenayah pembunuhan berdasarkan kitab Bahru Mazi syarahan Sheikh Muhammad Idris Marbawi. 

Hukum jenayah Islam terbahagi kepada hukum hudud, qisas dan ta’zir. Pada penulisan celoteh ini, penulis merujuk hukum qisas yang dari segi bahasanya bermaksud memotong dan dan dari segi syarak bererti hukuman yang ditetapkan oleh syarak melalui nas-nas al-Quran dan hadis-hadis Nabi s.a.w. kerana kesalahan-kesalahan melibatkan hak individu. 

Kesalahan-kesalahan yang diwajibkan hukuman qisas ialah membunuh dengan sengaja dan mencederakan anggota tubuh badan seperti mata, hidung dan telinga. 

Mengikut hukum qisas seseorang penjenayah mesti diikuti dengan hukuman yang sama sepertimana dia lakukan ke atas mangsanya. Kalau ia membunuh maka dia mesti dihukum bunuh. Allah SWT berfirman dalam al-Quran yang maksudnya: “Dan Kami telah tetapkan atas mereka di dalam Kitab Taurat itu, bahawa jiwa dibalas dengan jiwa, dan mata dibalas dengan mata, dan hidung dibalas dengan hidung, dan telinga dibalas dengan telinga, dan gigi dibalas dengan gigi dan luka-luka hendaklah dibalas (seimbang). Tetapi sesiapa yang melepaskan hak membalasnya maka menjadilah ia penebus dosa baginya.” (Surah al-Maidah ayat 45) 

Sementara itu diat adalah denda yang wajib dibayar kerana kesalahan jenayah sebagai ganti qisas. Kadar diat dikira mengikut bilangan unta iaitu harta yang paling bernilai. Kadar penuh diat 100 ekor unta. 

Bagi jenayah membunuh dengan sengaja, ada dua hukuman iaitu qisas dan diat. Diat hanya boleh dilaksanakan jika dipersetujui oleh waris. Jika tidak, qisas bunuh dikenakan. Pemerintah tidak ada kuasa dalam pengampunan. 

Pembunuhan separuh sengaja (seperti guru memukul murid dengan rotan, tiba-tiba budak itu mati), dikenakan diat 100 ekor unta manakala pembunuhan tidak sengaja (seperti seorang pemburu tertembak mati rakannya, dihukum membayar pampasan 100 ekor unta. 

Hukuman bagi jenayah pembunuhan separuh sengaja dan pembunuhan tidak sengaja adalah diat sahaja. Qisas tidak dikenakan.

Sementara itu diat jenayah kerana mencederakan anggota ada pelbagai kategori seperti 100 ekor unta untuk anggota tunggal seperti terputusnya lidah, hilang akal, menyebabkan lumpuh seluruh anggota badan dan hilang keupayaan bersetubuh. 

Pampasan 50 ekor unta dikenakan untuk anggota berpasangan, jika kedua-duanya terlibat maka diatnya 100 unta. Ia melibatkan salah satu daripada kaki atau tangan, mata dan telinga. Demikianlah ada pampasan lebih rendah jika membabitkan kecederaan lebih ringan. 

Tuan Guru terbuka untuk pertanyaan, dan penulis sempat bertanya, apakah jika berlaku sesuatu kemalangan jalan raya membabitkan mangsa yang terbunuh apakah si pelanggar atau orang mengakibatkan nahas itu perlu membayar diat. 

Antara lain Tuan Guru menjawab, jika si pelanggar sengaja melakukannya; seperti dia sudah mengenal mangsa dan berhajat membunuhnya dengan melanggarnya bererti dia sudah melakukan satu pembunuhan, hukumannya adalah qisas bunuh. Dia akan dihukum mati, caranya dengan memancung kepalanya.

Kalau si pelanggar tadi, tidak sengaja (seboleh-bolehnya tidak mahu terbabit dalam kemalangan) tetapi nahas berlaku juga, dan mangsa dilanggarnya mati; bererti dia membunuh secara tidak sengaja. Apabila ini berlaku dia perlu membayar diat 100 ekor unta. 

Dan apabila si pelanggar tadi, mengakibatkan orang dilanggarnya cedera, dia boleh dikenakan membayar diat 100, 50 ekor unta dan seterusnya. 

Demikianlah dalam Islam, hukumnya yang datang daripada Allah SWT adalah menyeluruh; menyentuh soal kematian dan kecederaan termasuk dalam kemalangan jalan raya. Apabila hukum qisas dan diat ini dilaksanakan termasuk di atas jalan raya, tentulah pengguna jalan raya gementar dan berhati-hati memandu. 

Membayar pampasan 100 ekor unta bukan murah, kerana kata Tuan Guru jika ditaksirkan seekor unta berharga RM5,000 seekor, seseorang yang membunuh secara tidak sengaja termasuk dalam kemalangan jalan raya, perlu membayar RM500,000 (RM0.5 juta). 

Kalau dia mencederakan orang, dan diperintah membayar pampasan 50 ekor unta, bermakna dia perlu mengeluarkan RM250,000. Itu kalau seorang dicederakannya, kalau lima orang dan lebih, tentunya jumlahnya mencecah jutaan ringgit. 

Jika hukuman qisas dilaksanakan, kemungkinan besar pemandu mabuk tidak berani berada di jalanan (lagi pun mereka sudah dikenakan hukuman hudud) manakala orang awam akan menggunakan jalan raya secara paling sopan dan ini insya-Allah akan menyebabkan kadar kemalangan jalan raya berkurangan.