The Holy Qur'an : End of Surah Al-Hujurat Ayah 12-18








Urdu Translation



English Translation by Abdullah Yusuf Ali



12. O ye who believe! Avoid suspicion as much (as possible): for suspicion in some cases is a sin: And spy not on each other behind their backs. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? Nay, ye would abhor it...But fear Allah. For Allah is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful. 

13. O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise (each other). Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things). 

14. The desert Arabs say, "We believe." Say, "Ye have no faith; but ye (only)say, 'We have submitted our wills to Allah,' For not yet has Faith entered your hearts. But if ye obey Allah and His Messenger, He will not belittle aught of your deeds: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." 

15. Only those are Believers who have believed in Allah and His Messenger, and have never since doubted, but have striven with their belongings and their persons in the Cause of Allah. Such are the sincere ones, Were We then weary with the first Creation, that they should be in confused doubt about a new Creation? 

16. Say: "What! Will ye instruct Allah about your religion? But Allah knows all that is in the heavens and on earth: He has full knowledge of all things. 

17. They impress on thee as a favour that they have embraced Islam. Say, "Count not your Islam as a favour upon me: Nay, Allah has conferred a favour upon you that He has guided you to the faith, if ye be true and sincere. 

18. "Verily Allah knows the secrets of the heavens and the earth: and Allah Sees well all that ye do."



End of Surah Al-Hujurat
Masha'Allah!


COMPREHENSIVE QUR'ANIC PRAYERS

  Prayer for Mercy and Forgiveness

Rabbana zalamna anfusana wa in lam taghfir lana wa tarhamna lanakunanna min-al-khasirin.
"Our Lord ! we have wronged ourselves. If  Thou forgive us not and have not mercy on us, surly we are of the lost."
 
2  Prayer for Grace on both the Worlds

Rabbana aatina fid-unya hasanatan wa fil-aakhirati hasanatan wa qina 'ashab-an-nar.
"O Lord ! Give unto us in the world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good and guard us from that doom of the Fire ".
3  Prayer for Forbearance and Fortitude

Rabbana afrigh alaina sabgran wa thabbit aqddamana wansurna alalqaumil-kafirin.
" Our Lord! Bestow on us endurance, make our foothold sure, and give us help against the disbelieving folk".
 
4  Prayer for Protection against the Mischief of the Devil

Rabbi a'udhu bika min hamazat-ishayatini wa audhubika rabbi an yahdurun.
" May Lord ! I seek refuge in Thee from suggestions of the evil ones and I seek refuge in Thee, my Lord ! last they be present with me".
 
5  Prayer for Protection against the torment of Hell

Rabbanasrif 'anna 'adhaba jahannama inna 'adhadaha kana gharama Innaha sa'at mustaqarran wa muqama:

" Our Lord ! Avert from us the doom of hell : Lo ! The doom thereof is anguish. Lo ! it is wretched as abode and station".
 
6  prayer for the Correction of Heart

Rabana la tuzigh qulubana ba'da idh hadaitana wa hablana min ladunka rahmah innaka antal-Wahhab.
"Our Lord ! Cause not our hearts to stray after Thou hast guided us, and bestow upon su mercy from Thy Presence. Lo ! Thou, only Thou art the Bestower"..
 
7  Prayer for the Purification of Heart

Rabbanaghfir lana wa li-ikawaninal- ladhina sabaquna bil-imani wa la taj'al fi qulubina ghillal-lil- laghina aamanu rabbana innaka ra'uf-ur-Rahim.

" Our Lord ! Forgive us and our brethren who were before us in the faith, and place not place not in our hearts any rancour towards those who believe. Our Lord ! Thou art full of pity, Merciful".
 
8  Prayer for Favourable Turn of Events

Rabbana aatina min ladhunka rahmatan wa hayyi' lana min amrina rashada.
"Our Lord ! Give mercy from Thy presence and shape for us right conduct in our plight".
 
9  Prayer for salvation

Rabbana aamanna faghfir lana warhamna wa anta khair-ur-rahimain.
" Our Lord ! We believe therefore forgive us and have mercy on us for Thou art best of all who show mercy".
 
10  Prayer for the grant of satisfaction and peace in the family

Rabbana had lana azeajina e adhur-riyyatina qurrata a'ayunin waj'alana lil-muttaqina imma.
" Our Lord ! Vouchsafe us comfort of our wives and of our offspring, and make us patterns for (all) those who ward off (evil) ".
 
11  Prayer for Parents

Rabbanaghfir li wa li-walidayya wa lil-mo'mina yauma uaqumu-ul-hisab.
" Our Lord ! Forgive mi and my parents and the believers on the day when the account is cast ".
 
12  Prayer for protection form trials and tribulations

Rabban la tu'akhidhna innasina au akhta'na rabbana wa la tahmil 'alaina isran kama hamaltahu 'alalladhina min qablina rabbana wa la tuhamilna ma la taqata lana bihi wa'fu 'anna waghfir lana war hamna anta maulana fansurna 'al-la-qaum- il-kafirin.
" Our Lord ! Condemn us not if we forget or err : Our Lord ! Lay not on us such a burden as Thou didst lay on those before us : Our Lord ! Impose not me us that which we have not the strength to bear : Pardon us, absolve us and have mercy on us. Thou ' art our Protector and give us victory over the disbe lieving folk ".
 
13  Prayer for getting rid of the disbelievers' domination

Alallahi tawakkalan rabbana la taj'alna fitnatanlil- qaum-iz-zalimin. Wa najjina firahmatika min-al-qaumil kafirin.
" In Allah we put trust. Our Lord ! Oh, make us not a lure for the wrongdoing  folk. And of Thy mercy, save us from the folk that disbelieve".
 
14  Prayer for a Propitious end

Fatir-as-samawati wal-ardi anta waliyyi fid-dunya wal-aakhirati tawaffani musliman wa allhiqni bissalihin.
" Creator of the heavens and the earth Thou art my  protecting Friend in the world and the Hereafter. Make me to die submissive (unto Thee), and join me to the righteous ".

Rabbana innana sami'na munadiyan yunadi lil-imani an aaminu birabbium fa' amanna rabbana faghfirlana dhunubana wa kaffir 'anna sayyi atina wa tawaffana maial abra. Rabbana wa-atina ma wa adtana ala rusulika wala tukhzina yaum-al-qiyamati innaka la tukhlif-ul-mi' ad.
" Our Lord ! We have heard a crier calling unto Faith : Believe ye in your Lord ! So we believed our Lord ! Therefore forgive us our sins, and remit from us our evil deeds and make us die that death of the righteous. Our Lord ! And give us that which Thou hast promised to us by Thy messengers. Confound us not upon the Day of Resurrection. Lo ! Thou breakest not the trust ".

7 Common mistakes we usually make in prayers

Listed below are the 7 Common mistakes usually we make in prayers
Mistake 1: Reciting Surat al-Fatiha fast without pausing after each verse.

The Prophet (SAW) used to pause after each verse of this surah. (Abu Dawood)
Mistake 2: Sticking the arms to the sides of the body, in rukoo' or sujood, and sticking the belly to the thighs in sujood.

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: 'Let not one of you support himself on his forearms (in sujood) like the dog. Let him rest on his palms and keep his elbows away from his body.' (Sahih Muslim) . The Messenger of Allah (SAW) used to keep his arms away from his body during rukoo' and sujood that the whiteness of his armpits could be seen (Sahih Muslim).
Mistake 3: Gazing upward during prayer.

This may cause loss of concentration. We are commanded to lower our gaze, and look at the point at which the head rests during sujood. The Prophet (SAW) warned: 'Let those who raise their gaze up during prayer stop doing so, or else their sights would not return to them. i.e. lose their eyesight].' (Muslim)
Mistake 4 : Resting only the tip of the head on the floor during sujood.

The Prophet (SAW) said: 'I am commanded to prostrate on seven bones the forehead and the nose, the two hands [palms], the two knees, and the two feet.' (Sahih Muslim) Applying the above command necessitates resting the forehead and the nose on the ground during sujood.
Mistake 5 : Hasty performance of prayer which does not allow repose and calmness in rukoo' or sujood.

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) saw a man who did not complete his rukoo' [bowing], and made a very short sujood [prostration] ; he (SAW) said: 'If this man dies while praying in this manner, he would die upholding a religion other than the religion of Muhammad.' Abu Hurairah (RA) said:
'My beloved friend, Muhammad (SAW) forbade me to perform postures of prayer copying the picking of a rooster; (signifying fast performance of prayer), moving eyes around like a fox and the sitting like monkeys ( i.e. to sit on thighs).' (Imam Ahmad & at-Tayalisi) The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: ' The worst thief is the one who steals from his own prayer.' People asked, 'Messenger of Allah! How could one steal from his own prayer?' He (SAW) said: 'By not completing its rukoo' and sujood.' (At Tabarani & al-Hakim).
To complete rukoo' is to stay in that posture long enough to recite 'Subhana rabbiyal Adtheem' three times, SLOWLY, and 'Subhana rabbiyal-a'ala' three times, SLOWLY, in sujood. He (SAW) also announced: 'He who does not complete his rukoo' and sujood, his prayer is void.' (Abu Dawood & others)
Mistake 6 : Counting tasbeeh with the left hand

The Prophet (SAW) used to count tasbeeh on the fingers of his right hand after salah. Ibn Qudamah (RA) said: ' The Messenger of Allah (SAW) used his right hand for tasbeeh.' (Abu Dawood). The above hadeeth indicates clearly that the Prophet (SAW) used only one hand for counting tasbeeh. No Muslim with sound mind would imagine that the Prophet (SAW) used his left hand for counting tasbeeh. Aa'ishah (RA) said that the Prophet (SAW) used his left hand only for Istinjaa', or cleaning himself after responding to the call of nature. He never used it for tasbeeh. Yasirah (RA) reported: The Prophet (SAW) commanded women to count tasbeeh on their fingers.
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: 'They (the fingers) will be made to speak, and will be questioned (on the Day of Resurrection. )' (At-Tirmidhi) .. The above Hadeeth indicates that it is preferable to count tasbeeh on the fingers of the right hand than to do so on masbahah (rosary).
Mistake 7 : Crossing in front of a praying person.

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) warned: 'Were the one who crosses in front of a praying person to know the consequences of doing so, he would have waited for *forty better than to cross in front of him.' (Sahih Bukhari and Muslim). *The forty in the tradition may be days months or even years. Allah knows best.
Common Errors in Prayer That MUST Be Avoided - Please info rm your near and dear ones to take care of the above.
Remember Muslim Ummah in your supplications

The excellence of Prayer








The Prayer is the first pillar of Islam that the Prophet  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) mentioned after that of uttering the Testimony of Faith, by which one becomes a Muslim. It is a form of worship consisting of specific statements and actions. It begins by pronouncing the Greatness of Allaah (Allaahu Akbar), and is concluded with salutations (As-Salaamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullaah).

The Prayer was the only order that was commanded by Allaah directly to His Messenger  may  Allaah  exalt  his  mention during his night journey. Allaah Says (what means): “Exalted is He who took His slave [i.e. Prophet Muhammad] by night from Al-Masjid Al-Haraam to Al-Masjid Al-Aqsa, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing." [Quran 17: 1] Prayer was also obligatory upon all the prophets, may Allaah exalt their mention, and their nations.
Additionally, it was the first act of worship that was made obligatory by Allaah on every believer.  
The status and virtue of the Prayer:
The Prayer has a great status in Islam; a status which no other act of worship holds. It is the spinal cord of the religion, without which the religion itself cannot be established. The Prophet  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) said regarding it: “The head of the matter is Islam, its spinal cord is the prayer, and its highest pinnacle is ‘Jihaad’ in the way of Allaah.” [Muslim]
In the Quran, Allaah ordains us hundreds of times to establish the Prayer. Allaah Says (what means): “…Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times…” [Quran 4: 103] And (what means): “Establish the Prayer, and give Zakaat (poor-due) and bow with those who bow (in worship and obedience).” [Quran 2: 43]
The Prophet  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) said: "Islam is built upon five pillars: Bearing witness that none is worthy of worship but Allaah and that Prophet Muhammad  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) is His Messenger, establishing the Prayer, paying Zakaah, observing Fast in Ramadhaan and performing Hajj.” [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
The significance of Prayer is so great that one is ordered to observe it whether traveling or not, in safety or in fear. Allaah Says (what means): “Be guardians of your prayers, and of the midmost prayer, and stand up with devotion to Allaah. And if you go in fear, then (pray) standing or on horseback. And when you are again in safety, remember Allaah, as He has taught you that which (heretofore) you knew not.” [Quran 2: 238-239]
Moreover, it is the first act that the person will be held accountable for on the Day of Recompense. The Prophet  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ), said: "The first act that the slave will be held accountable for on the Day of Judgment will be the Prayer. If it is good, then the rest of his deeds will be good. And if it is bad, then the rest of his deeds will be bad." [At-Tabaraani]
The Prayer is the best and most noble of deeds. It is the link between the believer and his Lord. Through the Prayer, the slave communicates with his Lord five times a day. To demonstrate the greatness and virtues of performing prayer, the Prophet  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) said: “If the time for a prescribed prayer comes, and a Muslim performs ablution properly, (and then offers his prayer) with humbleness and bowing (to Allaah), it will be an expiation for his past sins, so long as he has not committed a major sin; and this is applicable to all times.” [Muslim]
The Messenger of Allaah  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) beautifully gave a similitude, to the one who performs the Prayer in the prescribed manner and time, by these great words: “The five daily prayers are like a deep river flowing by the door of any of you, in which he bathes five times every day.” [Muslim]
The Prayer is the last thing that the Prophet  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) reminded his nation with before he  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) died, saying: “Guard your Prayer, guard your prayer and fear Allaah regarding what your right hand possesses (i.e. slaves).” [Imaam Ahmad]
The impact of praying:
The relationship with Allaah is demonstrated and put into practice, as well as improved and increased by the prayer. Therefore, if the prayers are sound and proper, the rest of the deeds will be sound and proper; and if the prayers are not sound and proper, then the rest of the deeds will not be sound and proper.
The spirit of the Prayer should be sincerity, devotion and contemplation. It is meant to strengthen the faith, purify and chasten the soul, qualify the believer for salvation in this life and the Hereafter and to make him shun immorality and evil deeds. Allaah Says (what means): Recite [O Muhammad] what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish the Prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allaah is greater. And Allaah knows that which you do." [Quran 29: 45]
Moreover, its aim is to generate within the subliminal self of man such spiritual power, light of faith and awareness of Allaah as can enable him to strive successfully against all kinds of evils and temptations and remain steadfast at times of trial and adversity. The Prayer is so effective and soothing to the heart that the Prophet  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) would resort to it whenever anything grieved him  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) and would say to Bilaal  may  Allaah  be  pleased  with  him: “O Bilaal! Comfort our hearts with it (i.e. call Iqaamah for Prayer).” [Ahmad]
The overall effect that the properly performed prayers should have upon humans is described in many verses of the Quran such as (which means): “Indeed, mankind was created anxious. When evil touches him, impatient, and when good touches him, withholding [of it], except the observers of prayer —those who are constant in their prayer.” [Quran 70: 19-23]

Namaz And New scientific research



Lailat ul qadar


A SUNNAH OF PROPHET(Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) -MISWAAK

A SUNNAH OF PROPHET(Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) -


Miswaak Quick View of Benefits:


Advantages of Miswaak:
1. Miswaak strengthens the gums and prevents tooth decay. 
2. Miswaak assists in eliminating toothaches and prevents further increase of decay which has already set in. 
3. Miswaak creates a fragrance in the mouth. 
4. Miswaak is a cure for illness. 
5. Miswaak eliminates bad odors and improves the sense of taste. 
6. Miswaak sharpens the memory. 
7. Miswaak is a cure for headaches. 
8. Miswaak creates lustre (noor) on the face of the one who continually uses it. 
9. Miswaak causes the teeth to glow. 
10. Miswaak strengthens the eyesight. 
11. Miswaak assists in digestion. 
12. Miswaak clears the voice. 
13. The greatest benefit of using miswaak is gaining the pleasure of Allah. 
14. The reward of Salaah (Prayers) is multiplied 70 times if Miswaak was used before it.
Times when usage of Miswaak is Sunnah:
1. For the recitation of the Qur'an. 
2. For the recitation of Hadith. 
3. When the mouth emits and odor. 
4. For the learning or teaching of virtues of Islaam. 
5. For making Dhikrullah (Remebrance of Allah, meditation). 
6. After entering ones home. 
7. Before entering any good gathering. 
8. When experiencing pangs of hunger and thirst. 
9. After the signs of death are evident. 
10. At the time of Sehri. 
11. Before meals. 
12. Before undertaking a journey. 
13. On returning from a journey. 
14. Before sleeping. 
15. Upon awakening.
How long should a Miswaak be?
A Miswaak should not be longer than a "span" i.e. the maximum distance between the tips of the thumb and little finger, and it should not be thicker than a finger's breadth.
How should it be used?
A Miswaak should be held in such a manner that the small finger and thumb is below the miswaak and the remaining fingers on its upper side.
So, dear friends, do you see how easy it is to gain the pleasure of Allah SWT and also stay in good health?!
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Miswaak: The Whole Story 

THE MISWAAK
Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) laid great stress on the use of Miswaak (a tree-twig used for cleansing the teeth). One of the Sunnats of Wudhu is to use a Miswaak. Wherever a Miswaak is available and is not used, the full beauty and complete Sawaab (regard) of Wudhu is not realised. There are numerous benefits and advantages in using Miswaak.
HISTORY OF MISWAAK
Miswaak, a tree-twig, was in use for brushing and cleansing the teeth long before the advent of our Holy Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). In fact the records of our Nabi Muhummad's (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) Ahadith indicate that Miswaak was the "Sunnah" or practice of all the Ambiyaa (Prophets of Allah)—Peace be upon them.
Abu Ayyub (R) narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
'Four things are amongst the practices of the Ambiyaa —circumcision, application of perfume, Miswaak and marriage'. (AHMAD AND TIRMIZI)
Several other Ahadith of our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) also mention the Miswaak to have been the practice of the Prophets (Upon Whom Be Peace). Thus, we can safely claim that the practice of using Miswaak is as old as mankind itself since Mankind's origin on the planet was with the appearance of the first Nabi of Allah, viz. Adam (A.S.). Therefore, among the many advantages and benefits of using the Miswaak, one of the greatest benefits is the good-fortune of being associated with the Ambiyaa in this holy practice. On the other hand, those who neglect the use of Miswaak invite upon themselves a great misfortune by being deprived of the tremendous amount of Sawaab (Reward) which this noble practice carries.
Allamah Ibn Ismail says:
"It surprises me how people could forgo such a great Sunnah, the significance of which many Ahadith of our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) explain. Remember that it is a great loss to neglect the Miswaak."
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MISWAAK IN ISLAM
Islam has accorded an elevated status to Miswaak. Its importance has been stressed in many Ahadith of our Holy Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). The statements and examples of the Sahaba and the Ulama of Islam regarding this practice bear testimony in abundance of the significance of Miswaak.
Ibn Umar (R) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
'Make a regular practice of the Miswaak, for verily, it is healthy for the mouth and it is a Pleasure for the Creator (i.e. Allah is pleased with the Muslim who uses the Miswaak)'." (BUKHARI)
It is clear from this Hadith that two types of benefits accrue from the use of Miswaak. These could be categorised as follows:
(1) UKHRAWI or Benefits which relate to the Hereafter;
(2) DUNYAWI or Benefits which relate to this worldly life.
The Ukhrawi category comprises the various Sawaabs (Rewards) which the Servant of Allah will obtain in the Hereafter for using Miswaak. The Dunyawi category comprises the immediate benefits or advantages accruing to the physical human body by the constant use of the Miswaak.
The prime motive of the true Believer in his use of Miswaak is his desire to obtain the first category of Benefits, i.e. Ukhrawi, the obtainal of the second category being a necessary corollary. This is so, since the only factor which governs the motive and intention of the Believer in his Ibaadat (Worship) is the Pleasure of Allah, our Creator, Nourisher and Sustainer.. Hadhrat Ali (R), the fourth Khalif of Islam said:
"Make Miswaak (i.e. its use) incumbent upon you, and be constant in this practice because Allah's Pleasure is in it and it increases the Reward of Salat from ninety-nine times to four hundred times."
In fact, the importance of Miswaak is such that at one stage our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was under the impression that Allah Ta'aala might decree the use of Miswaak Fardh (compulsory) upon the Ummah (Islamic Nation).
Abu Umamah (R) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
'Use Miswaak, for verily, it purifies the mouth, and it is a Pleasure for the Lord. Jib-ra-eel (A.S.) exhorted me so much to use the Miswaak that I feared that its use would be decreed obligatory upon me and upon my Ummah. If I did not fear imposing hardship on my Ummah I would have made its use obligatory upon my people. Verily, I use the Miswaak so much that I fear the front part of my mouth being peeled (by constant and abundant brushing with the Miswaak)'."(IBN MAJAH)
Abu Hurairah (R) narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: 

'Was it not for my fear of imposing a difficulty on my Ummah I would have ordered that the Miswaak be used for every Salaat'." (BUKHARI)
Hadith:
Hadhrat Shah Waliullah (R) relates the following:
The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
'I was commanded to use Miswaak to such an extent that I thought Miswaak would be made obligatory'. "(AHMAD and TIBRANI)
Ibn Abbas (R) narrates the following Hadith: 

The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
'I was commanded so much to use Miswaak that I thought Wahi of the Qurtaan (Revelation) would be revealed, regarding it (i.e. its use)'." (ABU YA'LAA)
Although the use of the Miswaak was not made Fardh (compulsory) upon the Ummah, nevertheless its use was Fardh upon our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). This is borne out by the following Hadith:
Aisha (R) narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam): said:
'These (practices), viz., Miswaak, Witr Salaat and Tahajjud Salaat, are Sunnat for you and Fardh for me'.
Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (R) narrates:
"The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would use Miswaak (regularly) prior to sleeping and after rising from sleep." (MUNTAKHAB)
Imam Ghazali (R), in his Ihya-ul-Uloom, has enum,erated ten Aadaab (Respects or duties) of sleep. The very first of these being purity and the use of Miswaak (before sleeping).
Allamah Sha'rani (R) states in the Kitaab, Kashful Ghummah, that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam): advised:
"Whenever you retire for sleep, use Miswaak."
Shaikh Abu Hamid (R) has said likewise in his Kitaab known as RAUNAQ.
Hadhrat Ibn Umar (R) says that many a time Rasulullah used Miswaak as much as four times in a single night. Hadhrat Aishah (R) narrates:
"Verily, the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would use Miswaak before making Wudhu (ablutions) whenever he arose from sleep, whether it be during the night or during the day." (ABU DAWOOD)
MISWAAK UPON ENTERING HOME
Shuraih (R) narrates that he asked Aisha (R): 'What was the first thing Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) did upon entering the house?'
Aisha (R) replied: 'Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would use Miswaak'." (MUSLIM)
MISWAAK UPON LEAVING HOME
"Whenever Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) left the house he would use Miswaak." (KASHFUL GHUMMAH)
MISWAAK BEFORE AND AFTER MEALS
Abu Hurairah (R) said:
"I have used Miswaak before sleeping, after rising, before eating and after eating, ever since I heard the Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) advising so'."(AHMAD)
MISWAAK BEFORE RECITING THE HOLY QUR'AAN
Hadhrat Ali (R) said:
'Verily, your mouths are the pathways of the Qur'aan (i.e. you recite with your mouth), therefore cleanse your mouth with Miswaak thoroughly'. " (IBN MAJAH)
MISWAAK DURING FASTING
Aamir Bin Rabiyah (R) narrates:
'I have seen Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) using Miswaak many a time while fasting'." (IBN MAJAH)
In another Hadith our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said that one of the best characteristics of a fasting person is his use of Miswaak.
The majority of the Ulama have opined that it is Sunnat to use Miswaak while fasting. It is recorded in Fataawa Siraajiah that a fasting person may use a dry or a moist (i.e. fresh, green) Miswaak.
It is recorded in many Ahadith that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and his Sahaba were in the habit of having their Miswaaks on their persons while on a journey or during battles. In the Kitaab, Kashful Ghummah it is mentioned that during battle the Companions of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) would store their Miswaaks in the scabbards of their swords for use at the time of Salaat.
Allamah Sha'rani (R) states in Kashful Ghummah that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
"Whoever spurns or rejects Miswaak is not of us (Muslims).."
All the aforegoing Ahadith of our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and the statements of the learned jurists of Islam point clearly to the tremendous importance of Miswaak in Islam. However, despite its elevated status, significance and importance, this noble practice is neglected and generally discarded by present day Muslims. Needless to say, this is one of the examples of the spiritual and worldly decadence that have set into the Muslim Nation.
The revival of the practice of using Miswaak instead of the various substitutes is of utmost importance to Muslims. In times such as the present age when we are confronted and surrounded by the satanic forces of irreligiosity, materialism, atheism, vice and immorality, it is of greater importance that Muslims strive most ardently to re-instate the practices or the Sunnah of our beloved Nabi it;. And, of these is Miswaak. Substitutes, e.g. toothpowders, brushes, etc.., should only be resorted to in the event of the non-availability of Miswaak. To revive a "lost" or a forgotten Sunnah of our Nabi it:—a Sunnah which the followers of Islam have murdered—carries a great and mighty Thawaab (Reward). In this regard our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
"He who holds on firmly to my Sunnah at a time when my Ummah are (grovelling) in corruption will receive a reward of a hundred martyrs."
And, indeed the MISWAAK IS A GREAT SUNNAH.
THE SAHABAS (COMPANIONS) AND THE MISWAAK
The Sahabas (R) who were the best and the noblest examples and teachers of the Sunnah of our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) viewed Miswaak in a very serious light and regarded it as a practice of supreme holiness. Their constant use of Miswaak, their continuous exhortations to use Miswaak and their warnings to those who neglect Miswaak are ample evidence of the nobility and the importance attached to this practice of using Miswaak.
Abdul Aziz Abu Dawood (R) said:
"Two things of a Muslim are among the best of practices—
(1) Performing Tahajjud Salaat, and
(2) Constancy in the use of the Miswaak."
THE ULAMA AND MISWAAK
Hadhrat Shaukani (R) said:
"Miswaak is one of the Laws of Shariah. And, this fact is as clear as daylight. This has been conceded by the peoples of the world." ( NAILIL AUTAAR)
Allamah Aini (R) says:
"Abu Amr (R) said that upon the significance of the Miswaak concensus of opinion exists. There is no difference of opinion on this score. According to all learned men of Islam, Salaat performed after using Miswaak is far nobler than a Salaat without Miswaak. Auzaai (R) said that Miswaak is half of Wudhu." (AL-BUNAAYAH)
Shaikh Muhammad (R) said:
"Verily, over a hundred Hadith have been narrated regarding the significance of Miswaak. Therefore, it is a great astonishment to behold that so many among mankind as well as among the learned neglect such an important practice which has been emphasized to such an extent. This is a great loss." (SUBL)
AADAAB OR RESPECTS TO BE OBSERVED REGARDING MISWAAK
The majority of the Ulama hold the view that the use of Miswaak is not Fardh (compulsory) . Howeyer, despite it not being decreed Fardh by the Shariah, it is of utmost importance. It is likewise essential that all the Aadaab pertaining to Miswaak be observed. Neglect of the Aadaab is a sign of spiritual indolence and weakness of Imaan. In order to achieve the Sawaub of a particular practice in full measure it is necessary that the Aadaab relating to the practice be observed. If neglect is shown towards the Aadanb, the final result will be the neglect of that very practice. In the Kituab, Ta'leemul Muta-allim the following is stated:
"He who becomes neglectful about the Aadaab is deprived of the Sunnats; and he who becomes neglectful of the Sunnats is deprived of the Faraa-idh (compulsory acts); and he who becomes neglectful of the Faraaidh is deprived of the Hereafter."(TA'LEEMUL MUTA-ALLIM)
Faqih Abu Laith Samarqandi (R) states:
"As long as the Servant of Allah safeguards the Aadaab Satan does not attempt to assault him (i.e. mislead him). However, when he neglects the Aadaab Satan makes advances into the Sunnats (i.e. misleads the Servant from the Sunnats). Thereafter follows Satan's assault on the faraa-idh (compulsory duties). This is followed by Satan's assault on Ikhlaas (sincerity), and finally on Yaqeen (Faith). Hence, it is necessary for a person to protect the Aadaab of all his affairs and actions, e g. the Aadaab of selling and the Aadaab of Wudhu, Salaat, buying, etc. (BUSTAANUL AARIFEEN)
TYPES OF MISWAAKS
It is permissible to take for a Miswaak all types of tree twigs provided these are not harmful or poisonous. It is forbidden to use a Miswaak from a poisonous tree. Miswaaks from the following trees are not permissible:
(1) Pomegranate 
(2) Bamboo 
(3) Raihaan 
(4) Chambelie
Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) FORBADE THE USE OF Raihaan as Miswaak because it causes the sickness, Juz-zaam
The following are the types of Miswaak are recommended:
(1) Peelo tree 
(2) Zaitoon or Olive tree 
(3) Bitam or 
(4) Any bitter tree 
(5) Walnut tree
Miswaak of the Peelo Tree
"And, the best of Miswaaks is the Peelo, then the Olive." (KABIRI)
The best type of Miswaak is that which is taken from the Peelo tree. In the Kitaab, Ta-heelul Manaa-fi' it is mentioned that the miswaak of the Peelo tree is excellent for obtaining the glow or glitter of the teeth.
Our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) also praised and recommended the Peelo tree for Miswaak purposes. Besides recommending the Peelo tree, Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) as well as the Sahaabas (R) used Miswaaks of this tree.. Ibn Sa'd (R) narrates that Abu Khabrah (R) said:
Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) presented me with a Miswaak of the Peelo tree, and he (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
'Use the Miswaak of the Peelo tree'.
Ibn Masood (R) said:
"I always kept a stock of Peelo Miswaaks for Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam)"
In the Kitaab, Mawaahib, it is stated that the Companions of Imam Shafi (R) have recorded Concensus of Opinion among them on the fact that the use of the Peelo Miswaak is Mustahab (i.e. an Islamic practice which carries much Sawaab (Reward) if upheld, and in the event of not fulfilling it no punishment will be meted out).
Miswaak of the Olive Tree
Rasullulah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has spoken highly of the Miswaak of this tree as well. The following Hadith brings out the significance of the Olive tree Miswaak:
"Use the Miswaak of the Olive tree. It is the Miswaak of a Mubarak (auspicious or gracious) tree. It purifies and makes wholesome the mouth. It removes the yellowishness of the teeth. It is my (i.e. Rasulullah's (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam)) Miswaak and the Miswaak of the Ambiyaa (Prophets) who came before me." (MUNTAKHAB)
Miswaak of the Bitam Tree
In another Hadith it is stated that in the absence of the Peelo tree the Olive tree should be used, and in the absence of the Olive Miswaak, the Bitam tree Miswaak should be used. (MUNTAKHAB)
Miswaak of some bitter tree
If none of the three abovementioned types of Miswaak is available, a Miswaak of any bitter tree should be used. (KUHASTANI)
" . . Thereafter it is Mustahab to use a Miswaak of a bitter tree because the Miswaak of a bitter tree removes odor of the mouth to a greater extent."(KABIRI)
In Alamgiri it is stated that Miswaak of a bitter tree makes the mouth wholesome, strengthens the teeth and the gums.
Mlswask of the Walnut Tree
Mistwaak of the Walnut tree has been recommended in the Kitaab, Taise.
NIYYAT OR INTENTION OF USING THE MISWAAK
"Niyyat of using the Miswaak should be made prior to its use." (SHARE MINHAAJ)
The following duaa should also be recited at the time of using the Miswaak:
Translation: "O Allah, Purify my mouth: Enlighten my heart: Purify my body; And make my body unlawful to the Fire." (BUNAYAH)
AADAAB (Etiquette) OF MISWAAK
(1) Miswaak should be a straight twig, devoid of roughness. 
(2) Miswaak should be clean. 
(3) Miswaak should not be too hard nor too soft. 
(4) Miswaak should not be used while one is lying down.
(5) New Miswaak should be approximately 8 inches (a hand-span) in length. 
(6) Miswaak should be the thickness of the forefinger. 
(7) Before using the Miswaak, it should be washed. 
(8) After use it should be washed as well. 
(9) Miswaak should not be sucked. 
(10) Miswaak should be placed vertically when not in use. It should not be thrown onto the ground. 
(11) If Miswaak is dry it should be moistened with water prior to use. This is Mustahab. It is preferable to moisten it with Rose water. 
(12) Miswaak should not be used in the toilet. 
(13) Miswaak should be used at least thrice (brush three times) for each section of the mouth, e.g. brush the upper layer of teeth thrice, then the lower layer thrice, etc. 
(14) Miswaak should not be used at both ends. 
(15) Miswaak should not be taken from an unknown tree as it may be poisonous.
ADVANTAGES AND BENEFITS OF MISWAAK
(1) Eliminates bad odour and improves the sense of taste
Allamah Ibn Daqiq (R) says: "The wisdom underlying the use of Miswaak after rising from sleep is that during sleep bad vapours rise from the stomach towards the mouth. This causes bad odour in the mouth as well as a change in the sense of taste. Use of Miswaak eliminates the bad odor and rectifies the change which occurred in the taste." (NALE WA TA'LEEQ)
(2) Sharpens the Memory 

Hadhrat Ali (R) said that "Miswaak sharpens the memory."
(3) Sharpens the Intelligence
"Four things increase intelligence— 
(i) Shunning of nonsensical talks 
(ii) Use of the Miswaak 
(iii) Sitting in the company of the pious, and 
(iv) Sitting in the company of the Ulama." 
(TIBBE NABAWI)
(4) Eliminates Slime
Hadhrat Ali (R) said that "Miswaak removes slime."(IHYA-UL-ULOOM)
(5) A Cure for Illness
Hadhrat Aisha (R) said that "Miswaak (its constant use) is a cure for all illness excepting Death." 
(REPORTED BY DAILAMI IN FIRDAUS)
(6) Miswaak creates fragrance in the mouth. 
(7) Miswaak strengthens the gums. 
(8) Miswaak prevents tooth decay. 
(9) Miswaak prevents further increase of decay which has already set in the teeth. 
(10) Miswaak is a cure for headaches. 
(11) Miswaak assists in eliminating toothaches. 
(12) Miswaak creates lustre (Noor) on the face of the one who continually uses it. 
(13) Miswaak causes the teeth to glow. 
(14) Miswaak removes the yellowishness of the teeth. 
(15) Miswaak strengthens the eye-sight. 
(16) Miswaak is beneficial for the health of the entire body. 
(17) Miswaak assists in the process of Digestion. 
(18) Miswaak is a cure for a certain mouth disease known as Qilaa'- This is stated in Hujjatul Baaleghah. 
(19) Miswaak clears the voice. This is stated in TibbeNabawi. 
(20) Miswaak facilitates the appetite (Tibbe Nabawi). 
(21) Miswaak increases the eloquence of one's speech.
Abu Hurairah (R) said that "Miswaak increases the eloquence of a person." (AL-JAAMI')
(22) Miswaak (i.e. its constant use) will be ~ factor to ease the pangs of Death. The continuous use of the Miswaak makes it easy for the Rooh (Soul) to depart from the body when its appointed time arrives.(SHARHUS SUDOOR)
(23) Miswaak increases the Thawaab (reward) of Salaat (prayer) from seventy times to four hundred times.(HADITH)
(24) Miswaak is a factor which will earn higher ranks in Jannat for the one who uses it
(25) The Angels sing the praises of the one who uses Miswaak.
(26) Use of Miswaak displeases Shaitaan.
(27) Use of Miswaak graces one with the companionship of the Angels.
(28) And, the greatest benefit of using Miswaak is the attainment of Allah Ta'ala's Pleasure.
SUBSTITUTES FOR MISWAAK
(1) The Fingers
In the case of the non-availability of Miswaak the fingers should be used to cleanse the teeth. This method will serve the purpose of Miswaak as far as the
Sawaab is concerned, i.e. if a Miswaak is not availa e the Sawaab (Reward) attendant to Miswaak will be realised by using the fingers as a substitute provided that Niyyat (intention) of Miswaak be made when the fingers are used for this purpose.
"Rubbing the teeth with the forefinger and the thumb"(MUHEET)
Hadhrat Amr Bin Auf Muzni (R) states that the fingers could be used as an adequate substitute for Miswaak in the case of the latter's absence.
Imam Tahtaawi (R) says: 'The promised Reward (of using Miswaak) shall be obtained in the event of the non-availability of the Miswaak, and not in the event of its availability' .
In other words, if a Miswaak is available and you are able to use same then the Sawaab of it will not be realised by using a substitute.
(2) Cloth
A coarse piece of cloth may also be used in case of the non-availability of a Miswaak.. Those who have no teeth should use the fingers or a cloth as substitutes for the Miswaak, and they will obtain the Sawaab. But Niyyat of Miswaak should be made.
"And, the significance of Miswaak shall be obtained even though the finger or a cloth be used in the event of the non-availability of Miswaak." (SHURAMBALI)
(3) Toothbrush
If the toothbrush is made of bristles (pig's hair) then its use is not permissible. If bristles are not used, the use of the toothbrush is permissible. However, the toothbrush will not serve as a substitute in the case of Miswaak being available. If a Miswaak is available reward will not be realised by using the toothbrush. The same applies to toothpowder or any other means of cleansing the teeth. It should be remembered here that during the time of our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) substitutes, e.g. toothpowder, etc., existed, but our Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) never equated these with Miswaak. Therefore, the argument of the modernist that the toothbrush today takes the place of Miswaak is fallacious and a good example of the apologetic attitude adopted by modern Muslims of today.