Laylat al-Qadr
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) habitually retreated from his daily life to meditate on the higher truths of human existence. After fifteen years of this meditative practice, during one of his annual retreats in the cave of Hira just outside the city of Mecca, he received his first call of revelation on what subsequently came to be called Laylat al-Qadr.
Laylat al-Qadr – the Night of Power – commemorates the night during which the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed. The Prophet was beckoned to Prophethood with the following Divine call:
Recite: In the Name of thy Lord who created, created Man of a blood-clot. Recite: And thy Lord is the Most Generous, who taught by the Pen, taught Man that he knew not. (Surah 96, Ayats 1-5)
The Holy Qur’an describes Laylat al-Qadr as follows:
We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power. And what will explain to thee what the night of power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand. Peace! This until the rise of morn! (Surah 97, Ayats 1-5)
The Prophet continued to receive revelations over a twenty-three year period. The revelations provided guidance to the Prophet and the believers, and often responded to the challenges faced by the nascent Muslim community. The Qur’an is thus closely linked to the historical circumstances of Prophet Muhammad’s life and the experiences of the Muslim ummah (community) of that period.
In interpreting the Qur’an according to the time and age, the Ismaili Imam guides his followers on the path to spiritual enlightenment and moral upliftment. At the Word of God, Art of Man International Colloquium in London in 2003, Mawlana Hazar Imam stated that the Qur’an “is concerned with the salvation of the soul, but commensurately also with the ethical imperatives which sustain an equitable social order.”
Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr on the 23rd night of Ramadan, in accordance with traditions received through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima. It is a night of special prayer, reflection and remembrance of Allah.
https://the.ismaili/laylat-al-qadr
Laila-tul-Qadr
-
shivaathervedi_3
- Posts: 354
- Joined: Wed May 16, 2018 7:29 pm
The Night of Power Board book – June 29, 2018
by Sarah Laiwala (Author), Aqeela Panjwani (Illustrator)
Today, toddlers are read books about caterpillars, monkeys, giraffes and more as part of their bedtime routine. As children learn through repetition, our goal is to teach faith-based stories to our toddlers during their early childhood development process. The Night of Power is an Islamic children's book that utilizes rhythmic poetry and cubistic style artwork to portray the story of Laylat al-Qadr, or Prophet Muhammad's first revelation of the Quran. The geometric shapes in our artwork are reflective of the geometric ornamentation that is seen in several Islamic artwork, and also allows us to abstract the physical features of Prophet Muhammad. The historical accuracy of this book has been verified by a doctoral (Ph.D) candidate specializing in Islamic intellectual history, theology, philosophy, and mysticism at Harvard University. This book does not promote or endorse idol worshipping, nor does it intend to disrespect any beliefs.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/069298478X
by Sarah Laiwala (Author), Aqeela Panjwani (Illustrator)
Today, toddlers are read books about caterpillars, monkeys, giraffes and more as part of their bedtime routine. As children learn through repetition, our goal is to teach faith-based stories to our toddlers during their early childhood development process. The Night of Power is an Islamic children's book that utilizes rhythmic poetry and cubistic style artwork to portray the story of Laylat al-Qadr, or Prophet Muhammad's first revelation of the Quran. The geometric shapes in our artwork are reflective of the geometric ornamentation that is seen in several Islamic artwork, and also allows us to abstract the physical features of Prophet Muhammad. The historical accuracy of this book has been verified by a doctoral (Ph.D) candidate specializing in Islamic intellectual history, theology, philosophy, and mysticism at Harvard University. This book does not promote or endorse idol worshipping, nor does it intend to disrespect any beliefs.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/069298478X
‘Kitab’ – Revelation, Source of Revelation, and Past Revelations
Posted by Nimira Dewji
Prophet Muhammad was concerned about the moral and spiritual conditions of the people of Mecca, and frequently sought moments of reflection by retreating to a cave on Mount Hira outside Mecca. After 15 years of this meditative practice, during one of his retreats, he received his first call of revelation on what subsequently came to be called Laylat al-qadr (Night of Power). It is believed that the first revelation came during the latter part of Ramadan. Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-qadr on the 23rd of Ramadan.
The first revelation to the Prophet, through Angel Jibril (Gabriel), was about knowledge and learning:
“Recite [Iqra]! In the Name of your Lord, who created! Created man from a clot. Recite! Your Lord is Most Generous! He who taught by the pen; Taught man what he did not know” (96: 1-5).
During the 23 years of his mission as the Messenger of God, Prophet Muhammad conveyed the revelations he received by reciting them to the people around him (the word qur’an means ‘to recite’). According to many sources, some of the revelations were recorded during the Prophet’s time on pieces of parchment, bark, and other materials. Several years after his death, the revelations were compiled into a text known as Qur’an. However, during the lifetime of the Prophet, the kitab, or book, as pages between two covers did not exist.
The Qur’an uses the term kitab in a variety of ways:
1) Kitab as Revelation
…Say, ‘Who sent down the kitab which Musa brought as a light and guidance for people…’ (6:91)
The kitab refers to revelations sent to prophets before Prophet Muhammad, such as Prophet Musa and Prophet Isa; these revelations were then recorded in books.
2) Kitab as Source of Revelation
Recite [O Prophet] what has been revealed to you of the kitab and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer restrains immortality and wrongdoing, and truly the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows what you do (45).
The phrase ‘what has been revealed to you of the kitab’ can be understood as meaning that the revelation given to the Prophet has its source in a kitab, and that what he has been given is from the kitab. Thus, ‘kitab’ here stands for the source of revelation.
Do not argue with the ahl al-kitab [People of the Book] except in the best way, except with those who do wrong among them. Say [to them]: “We believe in what has been revealed to us and revealed to you. Our God and your God is one, and to Him We have submitted.’ (46)
In this context, the phrase ‘those to whom we have given the kitab’ means revelation, as well as the source of revelation.
By the kitab that makes things clear. We have made it an Arabic recitation so that you may understand. Truly, it is in the umm al-kitab with Us, sublime, full of wisdom
(43:2-4).
The ‘kitab which makes things clear’ comes from this source, umm al-kitab. The ‘kitab which makes things clear’ is an Arabic revelation that has been sent down to Prophet Muhammad—it is an Arabic recitation.
3) Kitab as Past Revelations
The use of the term kitab in the Qur’an indicates that the Qur’an is part of a series of revelations sent to different communities, and that the origin of these revelations is the same.
Say, ‘Who sent down the kitab which Musa brought as a light and guidance for people…’ (6:91).
‘This is the blessed kitab that We have sent down confirming what came before it…’ (6:92)
Later, these individual revelations were written down in the form of physical books. It offers a reflection on past revelations of Judaism and Christianity, an important feature of the Qur’an.
Extracts from the Secondary Curriculum The Qur’an and Its Interpretations, Volume I, The Institute of Ismaili Studies
View The Quran From Revelation to Scripture by Khalil Andani, a Ph D candidate at Harvard University
Shahada Aga Khan Museum
Ceramic mosque lamp decorated with letters that form the Shahada. Source: Aga Khan Museum
Sources:
Azim A Nanji, The Imamate in Ismailism, The Institute of Ismaili Studies
Farhad Daftary, Azim Nanji, What is Shia Islam? The Institute of Ismaili Studies
nimirasblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/25/kitab-revelation-source-of-revelation-and-past-revelations/
Posted by Nimira Dewji
Prophet Muhammad was concerned about the moral and spiritual conditions of the people of Mecca, and frequently sought moments of reflection by retreating to a cave on Mount Hira outside Mecca. After 15 years of this meditative practice, during one of his retreats, he received his first call of revelation on what subsequently came to be called Laylat al-qadr (Night of Power). It is believed that the first revelation came during the latter part of Ramadan. Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-qadr on the 23rd of Ramadan.
The first revelation to the Prophet, through Angel Jibril (Gabriel), was about knowledge and learning:
“Recite [Iqra]! In the Name of your Lord, who created! Created man from a clot. Recite! Your Lord is Most Generous! He who taught by the pen; Taught man what he did not know” (96: 1-5).
During the 23 years of his mission as the Messenger of God, Prophet Muhammad conveyed the revelations he received by reciting them to the people around him (the word qur’an means ‘to recite’). According to many sources, some of the revelations were recorded during the Prophet’s time on pieces of parchment, bark, and other materials. Several years after his death, the revelations were compiled into a text known as Qur’an. However, during the lifetime of the Prophet, the kitab, or book, as pages between two covers did not exist.
The Qur’an uses the term kitab in a variety of ways:
1) Kitab as Revelation
…Say, ‘Who sent down the kitab which Musa brought as a light and guidance for people…’ (6:91)
The kitab refers to revelations sent to prophets before Prophet Muhammad, such as Prophet Musa and Prophet Isa; these revelations were then recorded in books.
2) Kitab as Source of Revelation
Recite [O Prophet] what has been revealed to you of the kitab and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer restrains immortality and wrongdoing, and truly the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows what you do (45).
The phrase ‘what has been revealed to you of the kitab’ can be understood as meaning that the revelation given to the Prophet has its source in a kitab, and that what he has been given is from the kitab. Thus, ‘kitab’ here stands for the source of revelation.
Do not argue with the ahl al-kitab [People of the Book] except in the best way, except with those who do wrong among them. Say [to them]: “We believe in what has been revealed to us and revealed to you. Our God and your God is one, and to Him We have submitted.’ (46)
In this context, the phrase ‘those to whom we have given the kitab’ means revelation, as well as the source of revelation.
By the kitab that makes things clear. We have made it an Arabic recitation so that you may understand. Truly, it is in the umm al-kitab with Us, sublime, full of wisdom
(43:2-4).
The ‘kitab which makes things clear’ comes from this source, umm al-kitab. The ‘kitab which makes things clear’ is an Arabic revelation that has been sent down to Prophet Muhammad—it is an Arabic recitation.
3) Kitab as Past Revelations
The use of the term kitab in the Qur’an indicates that the Qur’an is part of a series of revelations sent to different communities, and that the origin of these revelations is the same.
Say, ‘Who sent down the kitab which Musa brought as a light and guidance for people…’ (6:91).
‘This is the blessed kitab that We have sent down confirming what came before it…’ (6:92)
Later, these individual revelations were written down in the form of physical books. It offers a reflection on past revelations of Judaism and Christianity, an important feature of the Qur’an.
Extracts from the Secondary Curriculum The Qur’an and Its Interpretations, Volume I, The Institute of Ismaili Studies
View The Quran From Revelation to Scripture by Khalil Andani, a Ph D candidate at Harvard University
Shahada Aga Khan Museum
Ceramic mosque lamp decorated with letters that form the Shahada. Source: Aga Khan Museum
Sources:
Azim A Nanji, The Imamate in Ismailism, The Institute of Ismaili Studies
Farhad Daftary, Azim Nanji, What is Shia Islam? The Institute of Ismaili Studies
nimirasblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/25/kitab-revelation-source-of-revelation-and-past-revelations/
Laylat al-Qadr
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) habitually retreated from his daily life to meditate on the higher truths of human existence. After fifteen years of this meditative practice, during one of his annual retreats in the cave of Hira just outside the city of Mecca, he received his first call of revelation on what subsequently came to be called Laylat al-Qadr.
Laylat al-Qadr – the Night of Power – commemorates the night during which the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed. The Prophet was beckoned to Prophethood with the following Divine call:
Recite: In the Name of thy Lord who created, created Man of a blood-clot. Recite: And thy Lord is the Most Generous, who taught by the Pen, taught Man that he knew not. (Surah 96, Ayats 1-5)
The Holy Qur’an describes Laylat al-Qadr as follows:
We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power. And what will explain to thee what the night of power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand. Peace! This until the rise of morn! (Surah 97, Ayats 1-5)
The Prophet continued to receive revelations over a twenty-three year period. The revelations provided guidance to the Prophet and the believers, and often responded to the challenges faced by the nascent Muslim community. The Qur’an is thus closely linked to the historical circumstances of Prophet Muhammad’s life and the experiences of the Muslim ummah (community) of that period.
In interpreting the Qur’an according to the time and age, the Ismaili Imam guides his followers on the path to spiritual enlightenment and moral upliftment. At the Word of God, Art of Man International Colloquium in London in 2003, Mawlana Hazar Imam stated that the Qur’an “is concerned with the salvation of the soul, but commensurately also with the ethical imperatives which sustain an equitable social order.”
Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr on the 23rd night of Ramadan, in accordance with traditions received through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima. It is a night of special prayer, reflection and remembrance of Allah.
https://the.ismaili/our-culture/laylat-al-qadr
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) habitually retreated from his daily life to meditate on the higher truths of human existence. After fifteen years of this meditative practice, during one of his annual retreats in the cave of Hira just outside the city of Mecca, he received his first call of revelation on what subsequently came to be called Laylat al-Qadr.
Laylat al-Qadr – the Night of Power – commemorates the night during which the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed. The Prophet was beckoned to Prophethood with the following Divine call:
Recite: In the Name of thy Lord who created, created Man of a blood-clot. Recite: And thy Lord is the Most Generous, who taught by the Pen, taught Man that he knew not. (Surah 96, Ayats 1-5)
The Holy Qur’an describes Laylat al-Qadr as follows:
We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power. And what will explain to thee what the night of power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand. Peace! This until the rise of morn! (Surah 97, Ayats 1-5)
The Prophet continued to receive revelations over a twenty-three year period. The revelations provided guidance to the Prophet and the believers, and often responded to the challenges faced by the nascent Muslim community. The Qur’an is thus closely linked to the historical circumstances of Prophet Muhammad’s life and the experiences of the Muslim ummah (community) of that period.
In interpreting the Qur’an according to the time and age, the Ismaili Imam guides his followers on the path to spiritual enlightenment and moral upliftment. At the Word of God, Art of Man International Colloquium in London in 2003, Mawlana Hazar Imam stated that the Qur’an “is concerned with the salvation of the soul, but commensurately also with the ethical imperatives which sustain an equitable social order.”
Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr on the 23rd night of Ramadan, in accordance with traditions received through Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima. It is a night of special prayer, reflection and remembrance of Allah.
https://the.ismaili/our-culture/laylat-al-qadr
-
swamidada_2
- Posts: 297
- Joined: Mon Aug 19, 2019 8:18 pm
ISMAILI INSIGHT
United States • Friday, May 8, 2020
Self-Isolation for Allah
In the last two articles, we have focused on how, for many Muslims, engaging in the physical
practice of fasting is a way to develop spiritually. We have also reflected on the connections
across faith, action, and intellect. As Shia Ismaili Muslims, we cannot dissociate any of these
elements from one another. Taken together, they comprise what it means for each of us to be a
believer.
We are now in the midst of Ramadan and will soon participate in Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of
Power. On this night, Prophet Muhammad (s.a.s.) received the first revelation of the Qur’an.
According to tradition, our beloved Prophet used to retreat to Jabal an-Nur, a mountain outside
of Mecca, for a month or so every year. There, he would meditate in isolation in the cave of Hira.
Prophet Muhammad’s practice to separate from society and approach the Divine in seclusion is
emulated by many Muslims. The purpose of this exercise, known as khalwa, or isolation, is not
to permanently separate from the world, but rather to take time away from it to center oneself.
For some Sufi groups, the goal is to achieve khalwa dar anjum, or isolation in a crowd.
Surah an-Nur, Ayah 37 says: “[they are] men whom neither trade nor buying and selling distract
from the Remembrance of God.” The idea, then, is that by taking time away from the world, one
is able to achieve a state whereby no matter how much one engages with the world, one can still
remain apart from it and not get caught up in its minutiae.
A simple and well-known story illustrates this beautifully. Sufi mystic, Rabi'a al-Adawiyya, was
found one evening searching for something on the street outside her hut. As darkness descended,
a few people gathered around her. "What are you searching for? Perhaps we can help," they said
to Rabi’a. "I have lost my needle," she responded. "Well, the sun is setting now, and it will be
very difficult to find such a small thing. Where exactly were you when it fell? That might make
it easier to find." Rabi’a informed them, "I was inside my house when it fell."
Everyone started giggling as if she were joking. "If the needle has fallen inside the house, then
why are you searching for it on the road?" The people mocked her and started dispersing.
Rabi’a called them back and said, "Listen! That’s exactly what you are doing; I was just
following your example. You go on seeking bliss in the outside world without asking the most
fundamental question: Where exactly have I lost it? You have lost it inside but since your senses
are outward bound – your ears hear sounds on the outside, your hands touch things on the outside
– you search on the outside."
For many, taking time from outward-facing activities through fasting or periods of isolation can
bring a new level of awareness. For example, it allows us time to focus on the inside and
consciously make room for the Divine in our lives. These practices are not intended as
deprivation, but as a means of cleansing. They give us the opportunity to think about our
relationship with duniya, and adjust what we want for when the period of isolation ends.
United States • Friday, May 8, 2020
Self-Isolation for Allah
In the last two articles, we have focused on how, for many Muslims, engaging in the physical
practice of fasting is a way to develop spiritually. We have also reflected on the connections
across faith, action, and intellect. As Shia Ismaili Muslims, we cannot dissociate any of these
elements from one another. Taken together, they comprise what it means for each of us to be a
believer.
We are now in the midst of Ramadan and will soon participate in Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of
Power. On this night, Prophet Muhammad (s.a.s.) received the first revelation of the Qur’an.
According to tradition, our beloved Prophet used to retreat to Jabal an-Nur, a mountain outside
of Mecca, for a month or so every year. There, he would meditate in isolation in the cave of Hira.
Prophet Muhammad’s practice to separate from society and approach the Divine in seclusion is
emulated by many Muslims. The purpose of this exercise, known as khalwa, or isolation, is not
to permanently separate from the world, but rather to take time away from it to center oneself.
For some Sufi groups, the goal is to achieve khalwa dar anjum, or isolation in a crowd.
Surah an-Nur, Ayah 37 says: “[they are] men whom neither trade nor buying and selling distract
from the Remembrance of God.” The idea, then, is that by taking time away from the world, one
is able to achieve a state whereby no matter how much one engages with the world, one can still
remain apart from it and not get caught up in its minutiae.
A simple and well-known story illustrates this beautifully. Sufi mystic, Rabi'a al-Adawiyya, was
found one evening searching for something on the street outside her hut. As darkness descended,
a few people gathered around her. "What are you searching for? Perhaps we can help," they said
to Rabi’a. "I have lost my needle," she responded. "Well, the sun is setting now, and it will be
very difficult to find such a small thing. Where exactly were you when it fell? That might make
it easier to find." Rabi’a informed them, "I was inside my house when it fell."
Everyone started giggling as if she were joking. "If the needle has fallen inside the house, then
why are you searching for it on the road?" The people mocked her and started dispersing.
Rabi’a called them back and said, "Listen! That’s exactly what you are doing; I was just
following your example. You go on seeking bliss in the outside world without asking the most
fundamental question: Where exactly have I lost it? You have lost it inside but since your senses
are outward bound – your ears hear sounds on the outside, your hands touch things on the outside
– you search on the outside."
For many, taking time from outward-facing activities through fasting or periods of isolation can
bring a new level of awareness. For example, it allows us time to focus on the inside and
consciously make room for the Divine in our lives. These practices are not intended as
deprivation, but as a means of cleansing. They give us the opportunity to think about our
relationship with duniya, and adjust what we want for when the period of isolation ends.
Live Webcast
Join us for a night of personal and spiritual search, reflection, and remembrance.
Friday, May 15, 2020
8:00 p.m. Local Time*
Please select your respective time zone to begin the program.
Eastern Time Zone Central Time Zone Pacific Time Zone
*Jamati members in the Mountain Time Zone, please join at 8:00 p.m. CT
https://the.ismaili/usa/live-webcast
Join us for a night of personal and spiritual search, reflection, and remembrance.
Friday, May 15, 2020
8:00 p.m. Local Time*
Please select your respective time zone to begin the program.
Eastern Time Zone Central Time Zone Pacific Time Zone
*Jamati members in the Mountain Time Zone, please join at 8:00 p.m. CT
https://the.ismaili/usa/live-webcast
-
swamidada_2
- Posts: 297
- Joined: Mon Aug 19, 2019 8:18 pm
EI KHWAJA CHI JUUYI ZA SHAB E QADAR NISHANI
HER SHAB SHAB E QADAR AST GAR QADAR DAANI
JAMI
Oh Khwaja, what are you seeking from the night of power ?
Every night is night of power, if you know the value of this night.
Indeed every night can be night of power, if a momin gets noorani deedar. Dates 23rd or 27th are symbolic.
HER SHAB SHAB E QADAR AST GAR QADAR DAANI
JAMI
Oh Khwaja, what are you seeking from the night of power ?
Every night is night of power, if you know the value of this night.
Indeed every night can be night of power, if a momin gets noorani deedar. Dates 23rd or 27th are symbolic.
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 735
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
A first time all are performing prayers at home & online
Due to the corona Virus pandemic, 15 May 2020, was the first time all Ismaili Muslim’s globally observed prayers of Laitul Qadr **, at home, (and online with families & friends)
There are a significant number of places in the world where there are no Ismaili prayer halls (Jamat Khannas). Historically Ismaili’s had to practice their faith in secret at home, due to persecution.
There are a significant number of Ismailis today, who cannot or do not attend prayer halls for various reasons. And also there are areas where there is no internet access or is not affordable by the very poor. (They are a priority says Hazar Imam, in improving their overall wellbeing)
Hazar Imam, AgaKhan, and Quran say Allah is everywhere all the time, and closer to us all, than our Jugular vein. Therefore if you pray anywhere in any way, but with sincerity ( Niyat*) then your prayers will be accepted and blessed.
We must optimise the use of technologies. and to have best ethical practices says Hazar Imam. That includes communication, dissemination and religious practices.
Many Mukhis(Ismaili priests) today give religious blessings online. And some parts of religious prayers are performed online****
Access to Imam’s guidance (Firmans), religious and worldly, are selectively limited, and generally blocked by those controlling them. Despite specific and general instructions (Firmans) by Imam to give, teach , share implement and demystify our faith ( link below ***). This is a reason why the Goals are not achieve, for example Best practice pluralism and inclusion link http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
**Laylat al-Qadr is a Night of special additional prayers
“Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr ‪on the 23rd night‬ of Ramadan, marking a night of special prayer and remembrance of Allah.
The occasion provides us with an opportunity to reflect and re-commit ourselves to ongoing spiritual search.
Every year, Muslims observe this event as a reminder for our own spiritual search. In Surah al Qadr, ayats 3 to 5, Allah says:
“The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the leave of their Lord, with every command; peace it is until the break of dawn.”
The descent of the angels and the Spirit mentioned in this verse has been understood by many Muslims to indicate Allah’s Grace and Mercy during this special night.
Thus, on Laylat al-Qadr, we should aim to seek that Grace and Mercy, while rededicating ourselves to piety and the regular practice of faith, including the performance of prayers, offering supplications, and engaging in remembrance, or dhikr ( UK ITREB - May 2020 - Al Saha Ismaili community daily news letter UK)
The following prayers are recited during Laitul Qadr in India, Canada and UK There are some historical and traditional variations - The essence of praying with sincerity (Niyat), for blessings of guidance. and enlightenment are the same. Link https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/ ... F0zTcw1fDf
* http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/chatur-nyat.pdf
*** http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/101-proofs-chatur.pdf
Daily Virtual Prayers online which many more are joining now.
https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 69081/?d=n
There are a significant number of places in the world where there are no Ismaili prayer halls (Jamat Khannas). Historically Ismaili’s had to practice their faith in secret at home, due to persecution.
There are a significant number of Ismailis today, who cannot or do not attend prayer halls for various reasons. And also there are areas where there is no internet access or is not affordable by the very poor. (They are a priority says Hazar Imam, in improving their overall wellbeing)
Hazar Imam, AgaKhan, and Quran say Allah is everywhere all the time, and closer to us all, than our Jugular vein. Therefore if you pray anywhere in any way, but with sincerity ( Niyat*) then your prayers will be accepted and blessed.
We must optimise the use of technologies. and to have best ethical practices says Hazar Imam. That includes communication, dissemination and religious practices.
Many Mukhis(Ismaili priests) today give religious blessings online. And some parts of religious prayers are performed online****
Access to Imam’s guidance (Firmans), religious and worldly, are selectively limited, and generally blocked by those controlling them. Despite specific and general instructions (Firmans) by Imam to give, teach , share implement and demystify our faith ( link below ***). This is a reason why the Goals are not achieve, for example Best practice pluralism and inclusion link http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
**Laylat al-Qadr is a Night of special additional prayers
“Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr ‪on the 23rd night‬ of Ramadan, marking a night of special prayer and remembrance of Allah.
The occasion provides us with an opportunity to reflect and re-commit ourselves to ongoing spiritual search.
Every year, Muslims observe this event as a reminder for our own spiritual search. In Surah al Qadr, ayats 3 to 5, Allah says:
“The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the leave of their Lord, with every command; peace it is until the break of dawn.”
The descent of the angels and the Spirit mentioned in this verse has been understood by many Muslims to indicate Allah’s Grace and Mercy during this special night.
Thus, on Laylat al-Qadr, we should aim to seek that Grace and Mercy, while rededicating ourselves to piety and the regular practice of faith, including the performance of prayers, offering supplications, and engaging in remembrance, or dhikr ( UK ITREB - May 2020 - Al Saha Ismaili community daily news letter UK)
The following prayers are recited during Laitul Qadr in India, Canada and UK There are some historical and traditional variations - The essence of praying with sincerity (Niyat), for blessings of guidance. and enlightenment are the same. Link https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/ ... F0zTcw1fDf
* http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/chatur-nyat.pdf
*** http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/101-proofs-chatur.pdf
Daily Virtual Prayers online which many more are joining now.
https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 69081/?d=n
-
swamidada_2
- Posts: 297
- Joined: Mon Aug 19, 2019 8:18 pm
Re: A first time all are performing prayers at home & on
Chatur Saheb, why not you and other knowledgeable persons who have books of Farmans should contribute Imam's guidance on Ismaili blogs?mahebubchatur wrote:Due to the corona Virus pandemic, 15 May 2020, was the first time all Ismaili Muslim’s globally observed prayers of Laitul Qadr **, at home, (and online with families & friends)
Access to Imam’s guidance (Firmans), religious and worldly, are selectively limited, and generally blocked by those controlling them. Despite specific and general instructions (Firmans) by Imam to give, teach , share implement and demystify our faith ( link below ***). This is a reason why the Goals are not achieve, for example Best practice pluralism and inclusion link http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
Waezes on the significance of the night of Laitul Qadr:
Perspectives: "Submission as a Form of Transformation" with Al-Waeza Saleema Hassanali
During the program Peace it is Until the Break of Dawn, Al-Waeza Saleema Hassanali shares a perspective on “Submission as a Form of Transformation”.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXQ4jgYZuGM
*****
Perspectives: "Transformation Through Disruption" with Al-Waeza Natasha Hakimali Merchant
During the program Peace it is Until the Break of Dawn, Al-Waeza Dr. Natasha Hakimali Merchant shares a perspective on “Transformation Through Disruption”.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za0r4_SmEBQ
Perspectives: "Submission as a Form of Transformation" with Al-Waeza Saleema Hassanali
During the program Peace it is Until the Break of Dawn, Al-Waeza Saleema Hassanali shares a perspective on “Submission as a Form of Transformation”.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXQ4jgYZuGM
*****
Perspectives: "Transformation Through Disruption" with Al-Waeza Natasha Hakimali Merchant
During the program Peace it is Until the Break of Dawn, Al-Waeza Dr. Natasha Hakimali Merchant shares a perspective on “Transformation Through Disruption”.
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za0r4_SmEBQ
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swamidada_2
- Posts: 297
- Joined: Mon Aug 19, 2019 8:18 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXQ4jgYZuGM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za0r4_SmEBQ
Why comments are turned off for waezes?!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za0r4_SmEBQ
Why comments are turned off for waezes?!!
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mahebubchatur
- Posts: 735
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Quran verse - An Ismaili perspective Tawll & Talim
Laitul Qadr, is a night of reflection, remembrance, of thanksgiving. of recommitment, of renewal of Bayah, of divine revelations, of continuity of seeking the truth, of guidance, of prayers, of peace, of a beginning, of continuity, of blessings light/Nur, & intellect of seeking knowledge of seeking blessings, of seeking peace and of transcendence monoreality, unity & oneness.
The benefits or rewards of everything a believer seeks & does during Laitul Qadr are not possible without expressing humility & sincerity of intentions - Niyat - meaning & significance http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/chatur-nyat.pdf
A 30 minute video presentation about the meaning of Laitul Qadr from their perspectives. By ITREB USA -IIS
https://youtu.be/PjnFaUsoK2o
What Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) relayed from Allah (verse of Al Qadr & the verse before & after)
👇🏽 🙏🏼
QURAN SURA 97 - Al QADR
Behold, We revealed this (Qur'an) on the Night of Power. (Glory/Decree/Destiny)
And what will make you realize what the Night of Power is
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months
That night the angels & the ˹holy˺ spirit descend, by permission of their Lord, for every matter (decreed)
It is all peace until the break (emergence) of dawn.
SURA - VERSE 96 - AL ALAQARIYA
Read-Recite in the name of your Lord who created
Recite - Read , your Lord is the Most Generous.
Who taught by the pen
Who taught mankind what they knew not
Lo indeed, but (despite all His favors ), human being is rebellious-transgresses,
In that he sees himself as self-sufficient - independent (of Allah).
˹But˺ surely, to your Lord is the return of all
Have you seen the man who prevents.
Have you seen the one who forbids a servant ˹of ours
Have you seen if the servant is ˹rightly˺ guided or enjoins righteousness
What if that ˹man˺ persists in denial and turns away?
Have you seen if he denies and turns away
Does he not know that Allah sees ˹all˺?
But no! If he does not desist, We will certainly drag him by the forelock
a lying, sinful-sinning forelock
So-then let him call his associates.
And we will call the angels -wardens of Hell
Again, no! Never obey him ˹O Prophet˺! Rather, ˹continue to˺ prostrate and draw near ˹to Allah
SURA 98 - Al Bayinnah
The disbelievers from the People of the Book and the polytheists were not going to desist ˹from disbelief˺ until the clear proof came to them:
Those who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture and the polytheists were not to be parted [from misbelief] until there came to them clear evidence
A messenger from Allah, reciting scrolls of ˹utmost˺ purity, - purified scriptures containing upright commandments. Within which are correct writings [i.e., divine rulings and laws].
It was not until this clear proof came to the People of the Book that they became divided ˹about his prophethood˺
Nor did those who were given the Scripture become divided until after there had come to them clear evidence.
even though they were only commanded to worship Allah ˹alone˺ with sincere devotion to Him in all uprightness, establish prayer, and pay alms-tax. That is the upright Way.
And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakāh. And that is the correct religion.
Indeed, those who disbelieve from the People of the Book/scriptures and the polytheists will be in the Fire of Hell, to stay there forever/eternally . They are the worst of ˹all˺ beings/creatures .
Indeed, those who believe and do good be righteous —they are the best of ˹all˺ beings/creatures
Their reward with their Lord will be Gardens of Eternity/residence, under which rivers flow, to stay there for ever and ever. Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him. This is ˹only˺ for those in awe & fear of their Lord.
The benefits or rewards of everything a believer seeks & does during Laitul Qadr are not possible without expressing humility & sincerity of intentions - Niyat - meaning & significance http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/chatur-nyat.pdf
A 30 minute video presentation about the meaning of Laitul Qadr from their perspectives. By ITREB USA -IIS
https://youtu.be/PjnFaUsoK2o
What Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) relayed from Allah (verse of Al Qadr & the verse before & after)
👇🏽 🙏🏼
QURAN SURA 97 - Al QADR
Behold, We revealed this (Qur'an) on the Night of Power. (Glory/Decree/Destiny)
And what will make you realize what the Night of Power is
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months
That night the angels & the ˹holy˺ spirit descend, by permission of their Lord, for every matter (decreed)
It is all peace until the break (emergence) of dawn.
SURA - VERSE 96 - AL ALAQARIYA
Read-Recite in the name of your Lord who created
Recite - Read , your Lord is the Most Generous.
Who taught by the pen
Who taught mankind what they knew not
Lo indeed, but (despite all His favors ), human being is rebellious-transgresses,
In that he sees himself as self-sufficient - independent (of Allah).
˹But˺ surely, to your Lord is the return of all
Have you seen the man who prevents.
Have you seen the one who forbids a servant ˹of ours
Have you seen if the servant is ˹rightly˺ guided or enjoins righteousness
What if that ˹man˺ persists in denial and turns away?
Have you seen if he denies and turns away
Does he not know that Allah sees ˹all˺?
But no! If he does not desist, We will certainly drag him by the forelock
a lying, sinful-sinning forelock
So-then let him call his associates.
And we will call the angels -wardens of Hell
Again, no! Never obey him ˹O Prophet˺! Rather, ˹continue to˺ prostrate and draw near ˹to Allah
SURA 98 - Al Bayinnah
The disbelievers from the People of the Book and the polytheists were not going to desist ˹from disbelief˺ until the clear proof came to them:
Those who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture and the polytheists were not to be parted [from misbelief] until there came to them clear evidence
A messenger from Allah, reciting scrolls of ˹utmost˺ purity, - purified scriptures containing upright commandments. Within which are correct writings [i.e., divine rulings and laws].
It was not until this clear proof came to the People of the Book that they became divided ˹about his prophethood˺
Nor did those who were given the Scripture become divided until after there had come to them clear evidence.
even though they were only commanded to worship Allah ˹alone˺ with sincere devotion to Him in all uprightness, establish prayer, and pay alms-tax. That is the upright Way.
And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakāh. And that is the correct religion.
Indeed, those who disbelieve from the People of the Book/scriptures and the polytheists will be in the Fire of Hell, to stay there forever/eternally . They are the worst of ˹all˺ beings/creatures .
Indeed, those who believe and do good be righteous —they are the best of ˹all˺ beings/creatures
Their reward with their Lord will be Gardens of Eternity/residence, under which rivers flow, to stay there for ever and ever. Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him. This is ˹only˺ for those in awe & fear of their Lord.
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 735
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Prayers - Role of Imam and sending Prayers - Intercession
ISMAILI MUSLIMS SEND THEIR PRAYERS TO AND THROUGH THEIR IMAMS WHOSE DIVINELY ORDAINED APPOINTMENT & AUTHORITY COMES FROM PROPHET MUHAMMED & ALLAH - QURAN
The light (Nur)* of every Imam & Prophet in the past is one, & the same. “I have been the bearer of the "NOOR" a word which means "The Light" The NOOR has been handed down in direct descent from the Prophet. But My work and responsibilities overflow into the practical side of life." (Aga Khan)
Ismailis give their allegiance (Bayah) to Imam and believe in the Unity & Oneness of Allah (Shahada & Tawhid). These are a part of sending their prayers to Imam and through them to Allah. Imam Prays to Allah for the believers, and guides them by giving the Tawil and Talim of the Quran-Allah. AS Prophet Mohammed did (Quran - Hadiths)
Sending prayers to Imams, like to Prophet Mohammed, and to obey Prophet Mohammed, & Quran, is what Allah has ordained in the Quran. Prophet Mohammed confirmed and declared appointment of Imam Ali.
Many misinterpret and or misunderstand sending of prayers to Ismaili Imams
* enlightenment knowledge & Intellect (Tawil & Talim from Quran - Allah)
Links/ref
a) http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9411.
b) http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9224
c) https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 83940?s=12
d) Related Quran verses 9.103 , 4.64 3.59 48.10
e) http://www.ismaili.net/intervue/651212.html
“ We are the Gates of God. We are the medium for His people. He who approaches Him through us is brought near Him. He who seeks our intercession is interceded for. He who seeks His favours through us is favoured by Him. He who turns away from us goes astray." - Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq, (Qadi al-Numan, Kitab al-Himma, trans. Jawad al-Muscati, A.M. Moulvi, 42)”
“I am the meaning of Ramadan; I am Laylat al-Qadr mentioned in the Mother of the Book. My utterance is decisive, for I am Surah al-Hamd. I am the purpose of prayer itself, whether at home or when travelling. I am the purpose of fasting, and the sacred anniversaries in the months of the year.” – Imām ‘Alī ibn Abī Ṭālib, (Khuṭbah al-Iftikhār)
Link to more http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9224
The light (Nur)* of every Imam & Prophet in the past is one, & the same. “I have been the bearer of the "NOOR" a word which means "The Light" The NOOR has been handed down in direct descent from the Prophet. But My work and responsibilities overflow into the practical side of life." (Aga Khan)
Ismailis give their allegiance (Bayah) to Imam and believe in the Unity & Oneness of Allah (Shahada & Tawhid). These are a part of sending their prayers to Imam and through them to Allah. Imam Prays to Allah for the believers, and guides them by giving the Tawil and Talim of the Quran-Allah. AS Prophet Mohammed did (Quran - Hadiths)
Sending prayers to Imams, like to Prophet Mohammed, and to obey Prophet Mohammed, & Quran, is what Allah has ordained in the Quran. Prophet Mohammed confirmed and declared appointment of Imam Ali.
Many misinterpret and or misunderstand sending of prayers to Ismaili Imams
* enlightenment knowledge & Intellect (Tawil & Talim from Quran - Allah)
Links/ref
a) http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9411.
b) http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9224
c) https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 83940?s=12
d) Related Quran verses 9.103 , 4.64 3.59 48.10
e) http://www.ismaili.net/intervue/651212.html
“ We are the Gates of God. We are the medium for His people. He who approaches Him through us is brought near Him. He who seeks our intercession is interceded for. He who seeks His favours through us is favoured by Him. He who turns away from us goes astray." - Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq, (Qadi al-Numan, Kitab al-Himma, trans. Jawad al-Muscati, A.M. Moulvi, 42)”
“I am the meaning of Ramadan; I am Laylat al-Qadr mentioned in the Mother of the Book. My utterance is decisive, for I am Surah al-Hamd. I am the purpose of prayer itself, whether at home or when travelling. I am the purpose of fasting, and the sacred anniversaries in the months of the year.” – Imām ‘Alī ibn Abī Ṭālib, (Khuṭbah al-Iftikhār)
Link to more http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9224
Laylat al-Qadr: Peace It Is, Until the Break of Dawn
Description
Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power commemorates one of the most significant events in the history of Islam, when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) received the first revelation from Allah. Laylat al-Qadr thus marks the historical beginning of the Prophet’s teachings and example, informing the lives of nearly one-quarter of all people across the world. Every year, we commemorate this historical event as a reminder of our own spiritual search.
Join us on Tuesday, May 4, the 23rd night of Ramadan, from 8pm to 12am local time, in a special joint program for the North American Jamat. Through prayer, reflection and remembrance, take this opportunity to help re-align din with duniya, material with spiritual, and focus on the inward journey towards personal fulfilment and happiness.
https://iicanada.org/events/faith-tradi ... tent=46155
Description
Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power commemorates one of the most significant events in the history of Islam, when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) received the first revelation from Allah. Laylat al-Qadr thus marks the historical beginning of the Prophet’s teachings and example, informing the lives of nearly one-quarter of all people across the world. Every year, we commemorate this historical event as a reminder of our own spiritual search.
Join us on Tuesday, May 4, the 23rd night of Ramadan, from 8pm to 12am local time, in a special joint program for the North American Jamat. Through prayer, reflection and remembrance, take this opportunity to help re-align din with duniya, material with spiritual, and focus on the inward journey towards personal fulfilment and happiness.
https://iicanada.org/events/faith-tradi ... tent=46155
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 735
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: A first time all are performing prayers at home & on
swamidada wrote:Chatur Saheb, why not you and other knowledgeable persons who have books of Farmans should contribute Imam's guidance on Ismaili blogs?mahebubchatur wrote:Due to the corona Virus pandemic, 15 May 2020, was the first time all Ismaili Muslim’s globally observed prayers of Laitul Qadr **, at home, (and online with families & friends)
Access to Imam’s guidance (Firmans), religious and worldly, are selectively limited, and generally blocked by those controlling them. Despite specific and general instructions (Firmans) by Imam to give, teach , share implement and demystify our faith ( link below ***). This is a reason why the Goals are not achieve, for example Best practice pluralism and inclusion link http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
I and many more are today with references and Farmans. Also on Facebook and Twitter too. Look at the comments of Face Book Ismaili Heritage and on twitter in my name. And there are many more webinars
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 735
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Ismaili Interpretation Tawil from Quran & Ismaili Imam
Laitul Qadr is a night of reflection, of renewal of Bayah, of divine blessings & revelations, of continuity of Tawil & Talim, of the truth , of prayers, of peace, of a beginning, of continuity, of blessings of Deedar of light , & intellect of seeking and sharing knowledge, of seeking peace and of transcendence of unity, togetherness & oneness.
The benefits or rewards of everything a believer seeks & does during Laitul Qadr are not possible without humility & Niyat http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/chatur-nyat. )
An ITREB USA -IIS - video presentation about Laitul Qadr (from their perspectives)
https://youtu.be/PjnFaUsoK2o
What Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) says in the Quran. When we are reading verses & translations of the Quran we also need to understand there are different interpretations. Ismaili Muslims should read the Quran WITH (knowledge from), Farmans & related elucidation from Ismaili scholars-theologians-books. https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 13573?s=12
QURAN SURA 97 - Al QADR
Behold, We revealed this (Qur'an) on the Night of Power. (Glory/Decree/Destiny)
And what will make you realize what the Night of Power is
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months
That night the angels & the ˹holy˺ spirit descend, by permission of their Lord, for every matter (decreed)
It is all peace until the break (emergence) of dawn.
SURA - VERSE 96 - AL ALAQ
Read-Recite in the name of your Lord who created
Recite - Read , your Lord is the Most Generous.
Who taught by the pen
Who taught mankind what they knew not
Lo indeed, but (despite all His favors ), human being is rebellious-transgresses,
In that he sees himself as self-sufficient - independent (of Allah).
˹But˺ surely, to your Lord is the return of all
Have you seen the man who prevents.
Have you seen the one who forbids a servant ˹of ours
Have you seen if the servant is ˹rightly˺ guided or enjoins righteousness
What if that ˹man˺ persists in denial and turns away?
Have you seen if he denies and turns away
Does he not know that Allah sees ˹all˺?
But no! If he does not desist, We will certainly drag him by the forelock
a lying, sinful-sinning forelock
So-then let him call his associates.
And we will call the angels -wardens of Hell
Again, no! Never obey him ˹O Prophet˺! Rather, ˹continue to˺ prostrate and draw near ˹to Allah
SURA 98 - Al Bayinnah
The disbelievers from the People of the Book and the polytheists were not going to desist ˹from disbelief˺ until the clear proof came to them:
Those who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture and the polytheists were not to be parted [from misbelief] until there came to them clear evidence
A messenger from Allah, reciting scrolls of ˹utmost˺ purity, - purified scriptures containing upright commandments. Within which are correct writings [i.e., divine rulings and laws].
It was not until this clear proof came to the People of the Book that they became divided ˹about his prophethood˺
Nor did those who were given the Scripture become divided until after there had come to them clear evidence.
even though they were only commanded to worship Allah ˹alone˺ with sincere devotion to Him in all uprightness, establish prayer, and pay alms-tax. That is the upright Way.
And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakāh. And that is the correct religion.
Indeed, those who disbelieve from the People of the Book/scriptures and the polytheists will be in the Fire of Hell, to stay there forever/eternally . They are the worst of ˹all˺ beings/creatures .
Indeed, those who believe and do good be righteous —they are the best of ˹all˺ beings/creatures
Their reward with their Lord will be Gardens of Eternity/residence, under which rivers flow, to stay there for ever and ever. Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him. This is ˹only˺ for those in awe & fear of their Lord.
The benefits or rewards of everything a believer seeks & does during Laitul Qadr are not possible without humility & Niyat http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/chatur-nyat. )
An ITREB USA -IIS - video presentation about Laitul Qadr (from their perspectives)
https://youtu.be/PjnFaUsoK2o
What Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) says in the Quran. When we are reading verses & translations of the Quran we also need to understand there are different interpretations. Ismaili Muslims should read the Quran WITH (knowledge from), Farmans & related elucidation from Ismaili scholars-theologians-books. https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 13573?s=12
QURAN SURA 97 - Al QADR
Behold, We revealed this (Qur'an) on the Night of Power. (Glory/Decree/Destiny)
And what will make you realize what the Night of Power is
The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months
That night the angels & the ˹holy˺ spirit descend, by permission of their Lord, for every matter (decreed)
It is all peace until the break (emergence) of dawn.
SURA - VERSE 96 - AL ALAQ
Read-Recite in the name of your Lord who created
Recite - Read , your Lord is the Most Generous.
Who taught by the pen
Who taught mankind what they knew not
Lo indeed, but (despite all His favors ), human being is rebellious-transgresses,
In that he sees himself as self-sufficient - independent (of Allah).
˹But˺ surely, to your Lord is the return of all
Have you seen the man who prevents.
Have you seen the one who forbids a servant ˹of ours
Have you seen if the servant is ˹rightly˺ guided or enjoins righteousness
What if that ˹man˺ persists in denial and turns away?
Have you seen if he denies and turns away
Does he not know that Allah sees ˹all˺?
But no! If he does not desist, We will certainly drag him by the forelock
a lying, sinful-sinning forelock
So-then let him call his associates.
And we will call the angels -wardens of Hell
Again, no! Never obey him ˹O Prophet˺! Rather, ˹continue to˺ prostrate and draw near ˹to Allah
SURA 98 - Al Bayinnah
The disbelievers from the People of the Book and the polytheists were not going to desist ˹from disbelief˺ until the clear proof came to them:
Those who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture and the polytheists were not to be parted [from misbelief] until there came to them clear evidence
A messenger from Allah, reciting scrolls of ˹utmost˺ purity, - purified scriptures containing upright commandments. Within which are correct writings [i.e., divine rulings and laws].
It was not until this clear proof came to the People of the Book that they became divided ˹about his prophethood˺
Nor did those who were given the Scripture become divided until after there had come to them clear evidence.
even though they were only commanded to worship Allah ˹alone˺ with sincere devotion to Him in all uprightness, establish prayer, and pay alms-tax. That is the upright Way.
And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakāh. And that is the correct religion.
Indeed, those who disbelieve from the People of the Book/scriptures and the polytheists will be in the Fire of Hell, to stay there forever/eternally . They are the worst of ˹all˺ beings/creatures .
Indeed, those who believe and do good be righteous —they are the best of ˹all˺ beings/creatures
Their reward with their Lord will be Gardens of Eternity/residence, under which rivers flow, to stay there for ever and ever. Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him. This is ˹only˺ for those in awe & fear of their Lord.
Surah al-Qadr: “Lo! We revealed it (the Qur’an) on the Night of Power”
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON MAY 3, 2021
Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power is better than a thousand months (4th May 2021 – Ramadan 23rd, 1442)
By: Sadruddin Noorani, Chicago, USA
Laylat al-Qadr, the “Night of Power” or “Blessed Night” or “Night of Grandeur” or “Night of Majesty” commemorates one of the most significant events in the history of Islam. It is the night when Prophet Muhammad, salla-llaihu ‘alayhi wa alihi wa sallam, received the first revelation from Allah. Thus, Laylat al-Qadr, can be seen as marking the historical beginning of the Prophet’s mission that conveyed God’s final message of Islam to mankind. Today, the teachings and examples of the Holy Prophet guide the lives of nearly one-quarter of all people across the world.
Laylat al-Qadr marks an important moment in the Prophet’s spiritual journey. Prophet Muhammad was known to retreat regularly to a cave on Mount Hira, where he spent time in solitude and contemplation. During one such retreat, which the Holy Qur’an refers to as Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power, the Prophet had a profound spiritual experience, marking the beginning of the revelation. Every year, we commemorate this event as a reminder of our own spiritual search. Every moment of each day of our lives presents us with an opportunity to remember God and undertake a spiritual journey towards self-discovery and spiritual happiness.
Muslims generally believe that the descent of angels and the spirit as mentioned in the Holy Qur’an in Surat al-Qadr 3-4, indicates God’s Grace and Mercy during this special night. From a Shi’i point of view, the Night of Power and its continuous presence every year symbolizes the everlasting presence of the Hazar Imam and his continuing guidance for the believers. In a hadith, Abdullah Ibn-Maskan, a companion of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq, narrates the following:
“When the Chapter of Qadr was mentioned in the presence of … Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq, ‘alayhi-s-salaam, and he was asked about its merits over other chapters. Imam al-Sadiq said, [that] ‘It was revealed with reference to the Wilayat (or authority) of the Commander of the Faithful (that is Imam Ali, ‘alayhi-s-salaam). He was asked, ‘Do you mean Laylat al-Qadr for which we look in anticipation during the month of Ramadan?’ Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq said, ‘Yes, it is the night in which the (destiny of the) heavens and the earth were determined, and the authority of the Commander of the Faithful was decreed.”
On Laylat al-Qadr, we should seek God’s Grace and Mercy, while rededicating our lives to piety and the regular practice of our faith, including the performance of prayers, offering supplications, and engaging in dhikr. In a widely reported hadith, cited in Sahih Bukhari, the Holy Prophet urges believers to spend Laylat al-Qadr in devotion and to seek God’s forgiveness. He is reported to have said:
“Whosoever establishes prayers in the night of Qadr, out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven”.
Hazrat Imam ‘Ali (a.s) is reported to have said that ‘He who knows himself, knows his Lord.’ Those who put efforts in pursuit of this goal, are passionately in love with God, and they are, in the words of Imam Sultan Mahomed Shah (a.s), ‘the friends of the Spirit’.
It is said that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was a man of stature and sincerity; he had a sense of community-building and that he was receptive to spiritual experience. His family had the distinction of being the caretaker of the Holy Ka’bah. He was a well-respected merchant who played an active role in understanding and engaging with issues of Meccan society. He, nonetheless, regularly retreated from routine life to meditate on the higher truth that he felt was missing in the worship of idols, as was the common practice in Arabia at the time. In that sense, the Prophet was well aware of both the spiritual and material responsibilities even prior to him becoming the Prophet. This understanding of the need to balance one’s life perhaps gave voice to his disaffection with the prevailing civic order and he became actively involved with the Hunafa’ (seekers of truth), a group of people concerned with addressing societal issues of the time as well as seeking the ultimate reality.
It was after fifteen years of meditative practice that during one of his annual retreats in the cave of Hira just outside the city of Mecca, he received his first call of revelation, which henceforth came to be called Laylat al-Qadr, the night of power. It was on this blessed night that the Prophet was summoned to Prophethood with the Divine call as mentioned in Surah Al-Alaq 96, 1 to 5, which says:
This is also corroborated by the Qur’an in Surah Al-Dukhan 44: 3-6, which says:
“We have sent it (the Book), down on a blessed night, since We wanted to forewarn mankind. In that night every matter or Wisdom is decided upon – as a command from Us, for We send revelations as a Mercy from your Lord.”
Therefore, Muslims believe that this night was Laylat al-Qadr, the night of power. In fact, the wording “We sent it down on a blessed night wherein every matter of wisdom is decided upon” bears a profound resemblance to that of Surah al-Qadr, which says:
“Lo! We revealed it (the Qur’an) on the Night of Power. What will convey unto you what the Night of Power is! The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the permission of their Lord, with all decrees. Peace it is until the rising of the dawn.”
Laylat al-Qadr is the “blessed night” on which Allah bestows upon us His infinite mercy; the night wherein we pray and beseech for our spiritual happiness; and as assured in the above ayat, the immeasurable divine response coming from His mercy fulfills our requests. This night is solemnly observed every year by Muslims, many of whom spend the entire night in devotional prayers. It is reported by Bibi Aisha (r.a), the Prophet’s wife, that “the Prophet would strive to do acts of worship during the last ten days of Ramadan more than he would at any other time”, which included Laylat al-Qadr. This devotion and act of worship during the last ten days of Ramadan by some Muslims has continued to this day as a ritual of performing Etekaf in the Masjid, that is, seclusion in the Mosque. The objective behind such an act of worship is that the hearts and minds are fully occupied with thoughts of God and concentrate upon Him alone, through the act of zikr, that is, remembrance of God.
In the Ismaili Muslim tradition, we, however, balance the act of worship and remembrance by fulfilling our worldly responsibilities simultaneously, within the ethics of our faith. Special prayers and tasbihs offered on this night would bring immense blessings. Mu’mineen practice their faith to strive constantly to seek blessings, not just this night but every night, so that practice of our faith – maintaining a balance between din and duniya, becomes part of our daily life.
How can we achieve that balance? Mawlana Hazar Imam guides us on how we can practice our faith, both within and outside the Jamat Khana, in our day to day lives, by creating an attitude where practice of faith becomes a second nature to us.
Al-Mu’ayyad fi’l-Din al-Shirazi (1000-1078), a leading Ismaili Da’i, who served the 18th Imam al-Mustansir bi’llah, (1036-1095) reminds us of a hadith attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) which says that on Laylat al-Qadr, “all creatures, animals, trees, and precious stones prostrate themselves to God and humble themselves before Him.”
Nasir al-Din Tusi (1202-1274), a foremost Ismaili scholar who served the 26th Imam Alaiddeen Muhammad, 27th Imam Rukniddeen Khairi Shah and 28th Imam Shamsiddeen Muhammad, likens the night to the concept of origin, meaning the beginning of the journey of our souls in the world. The final destination of the soul is clearly mentioned in Surah 2, Ayah 156 which states:
“We are from Allah and to Him we will return”
The message here is that it is the soul which returns to God.
Tonight is the night of power, when, and as stated in the Holy Qur’an, angels and spirits descend upon earth with all decrees from God. Let us pray that the mercy and blessings of Allah may touch us tonight and lead us to greater spiritual awakening and upliftment. Ameen.
On this special night we are given the opportunity to reflect about our souls and our journey through this world. We must strive to ensure that the spark within us is not extinguished but rather developed. It is this spark which we seek to discover in ourselves as we perform ibadah on this night. Even a moment of prayer and contemplation promises immense blessings. Insha ‘Allah, this blessed night, this night of power will bring us closer to the Divine grace as we continue our spiritual journey and seek dini happiness and enlightenment.
On this sacred night, let us ask ourselves, to what extent is there a balance in our lives between the spiritual and material aspects? In today’s materialistic world, how can we overcome the challenges in our quest for spiritual enlightenment? In responding to these questions, Laylat al-Qadr provides us an opportunity to reflect upon and commit ourselves to an ongoing spiritual search. So, we can pause and ponder to remind ourselves to dedicate time from our daily activities to think about our spiritual progress, enlightenment and happiness.
On this night, let us pray for Allah’s continuous grace and mercy to keep us on Sirat al-Mustaqim and to be blessed with strength and courage to continue to serve humanity and all God’s creation with love and devotion.
PLEASE ALSO SEE: https://ismailimail.blog/2020/05/14/sad ... nd-months/
ismailimail.blog/2021/05/03/surah-al-qadr-lo-we-revealed-it-the-quran-on-the-night-of-power/
*******
Sadruddin Noorani: Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power is better than a thousand months
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON MAY 14, 2020
By: Sadruddin Noorani (Chicago, USA)
Laylat al-Qadr, (the Night of Power, Night of Destiny), commemorates the night during which the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr on the 23rd night of Ramadan, in accordance with traditions received through Hazrat Ali (A.S) and Hazrat Bibi Fatima al-Zahra (A.S).
“The-Night-of-Al-Qadr-Decree-is-better-than-a-thousand-months”-Surah-al-Qadr-97_3
Laylat al-Qadr is a powerful reminder of the spiritual traditions in Islam. The Holy Qur’an mentions the first revelation representing the Almighty’s Grace received by Prophet Muhammad on Laylat al-Qadr. A reference to this is found in Surah al-Qadr (97:1-5) of the Holy Qur’an, where Allah (SWT) says:
“We have indeed revealed the (Message) in the Night of Power.
And what will explain onto you what the Night of Power is!
The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.
Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah’s permission, on every errand.
Peace!… it is until the rising of the dawn.”
Many interpreters of the Qur’an suggest that the reference to a thousand months is Allah’s way of defining eternal time, as Laylat al-Qadr value cannot be described in terms of worldly time. Any good acts and deeds completed on this night are the equivalent to if you had performed that one single act for 83 year. Some have suggested that this verse indicates that a single moment of enlightenment is better than a thousand months of prayers and devotion and such a moment of recognition transforms the life of the believer into one filled with spiritual grace and peace.
Many Muslims spend the entire night of Qadr reciting zikr (a form of devotion) and other prayers. The 12th century mystic poet Jalal ad-Din Rumi (1207-1273) recommends staying up at night in prayer. In the following verses he says:
“If you stay awake for an entire night,875661
Watch out for a treasure trying to arrive.
You can keep warm by the secret sun of the night,
Keeping your eyes open for the softness of dawn.
Try it for tonight, challenge your sleepy eyes,
Do not lay your head down and wait for the heavenly alms.
For the night is the bringer of gifts…”
Laylat al-Qadr is a night of great majesty, in which believers offer special prayers to Allah, seeking forgiveness for errors and Allah’s grace and mercy. Surah al-Dukhan (44, verse 3) refers to this night as the “blessed night” in which Allah bestows blessings upon us.
The Night of Power not only reminds us about our earthly limitations, but also about our spiritual potential that may be achieved through reflection, practice of faith, and personal spiritual search. On this special night, we are offered the opportunity to reflect upon our soul’s journey through time. As 48th Ismaili Imam, Sultan Mohamed Shah Aga Khan lll (1877-1957) says in his ‘Memoirs’:
“…all human beings carry a spark of the Divine Light. Everyone should strive his best lon-his-highness-aga-sir-sultan-muhammad-shah-aga-khan-iii-president-of-the-assembly-league-of-nations-photo-league-of-nations-archieveto see that this spark be not extinguished but rather developed…”
It is the spark, which we seek to discover in ourselves as we perform prayers in the hopes that this ‘divine spark’ within us should lead us to greater spiritual awakening. Allah says that the Night of Power is equivalent to a thousand months. Thus, every moment of prayer and contemplation promises the seeker more blessings.
Dai Nasir Khusraw (1004-1088) explains the significance of Laylat al-Qadr by saying:
“You illuminate the mosques on the Night of Qadr and make it as bright as the day,nasir-khusraw while your hearts are as dark as the darkest night. Know that illuminations are not enough. when you light the lamps, remind yourselves that your dark hearts, without inner purification, will not become enlightened by the lamps”.
In the Ismaili Muslim Tariqah of Islam, the Imam-of-the-Time plays a vital role in guiding the murid‘s spiritual search and illuminates the path towards enlightenment and vision. On 12th March 1976, Mawlana Hazar Imam delivers the Presidential Address at the International Seerat Conference in Karachi, Pakistan, and he said:
“…the question of what Muslim Society should seek to be in the years ahead. Islam, as 54081seeratjpgeven non-Muslims have observed, is a way of life. This means that every aspect of the individual’s daily existence is guided by Islam: his family relations, his business relations, his education, his health, the means and manner by which he gains his livelihood, his philanthropy, what he sees and hears around him, what he reads, the way he regulates his time, the buildings in which he lives, learns and earns.
I cannot think of any time in Islamic history when Muslims have had a greater opportunity to unite, and to ensure that the society in which they live is that which they have defined and chosen for themselves”.
My non-Muslim friends are always amazed by the perseverance of Ismaili Muslims everywhere. Even in these difficult times, we are finding new ways to pray at home and stay connected within the community and innovative ways to safely make a difference and bring value to improve the quality of life of the community and those among whom we live. Our commitment of selfless service in this crisis is inspiring. And exactly what our communities need. During this Covid-19 pandemic, we are showing the world that there may be limits on what we can do in a time of social distancing, but there are no limits to the kindness of Ismaili Muslims. Let us all continue to put health and safety first as we continue the important work we are doing as Ismailis.
Laylat al-Qadr is a reminder for us to reflect on our inner self and to work towards our spiritual destiny. It is also an opportunity for us to reflect upon the blessings of Allah (S.W.T) and follow the Hadith (qualities, habits and guidance) of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.S). May the blessings of Laylat al-Qadr touch everyone of us and illuminate our hearts and lives. Ameen.
/ismailimail.blog/2020/05/14/sadruddin-noorani-laylat-al-qadr-the-night-of-power-is-better-than-a-thousand-months/
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON MAY 3, 2021
Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power is better than a thousand months (4th May 2021 – Ramadan 23rd, 1442)
By: Sadruddin Noorani, Chicago, USA
Laylat al-Qadr, the “Night of Power” or “Blessed Night” or “Night of Grandeur” or “Night of Majesty” commemorates one of the most significant events in the history of Islam. It is the night when Prophet Muhammad, salla-llaihu ‘alayhi wa alihi wa sallam, received the first revelation from Allah. Thus, Laylat al-Qadr, can be seen as marking the historical beginning of the Prophet’s mission that conveyed God’s final message of Islam to mankind. Today, the teachings and examples of the Holy Prophet guide the lives of nearly one-quarter of all people across the world.
Laylat al-Qadr marks an important moment in the Prophet’s spiritual journey. Prophet Muhammad was known to retreat regularly to a cave on Mount Hira, where he spent time in solitude and contemplation. During one such retreat, which the Holy Qur’an refers to as Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power, the Prophet had a profound spiritual experience, marking the beginning of the revelation. Every year, we commemorate this event as a reminder of our own spiritual search. Every moment of each day of our lives presents us with an opportunity to remember God and undertake a spiritual journey towards self-discovery and spiritual happiness.
Muslims generally believe that the descent of angels and the spirit as mentioned in the Holy Qur’an in Surat al-Qadr 3-4, indicates God’s Grace and Mercy during this special night. From a Shi’i point of view, the Night of Power and its continuous presence every year symbolizes the everlasting presence of the Hazar Imam and his continuing guidance for the believers. In a hadith, Abdullah Ibn-Maskan, a companion of Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq, narrates the following:
“When the Chapter of Qadr was mentioned in the presence of … Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq, ‘alayhi-s-salaam, and he was asked about its merits over other chapters. Imam al-Sadiq said, [that] ‘It was revealed with reference to the Wilayat (or authority) of the Commander of the Faithful (that is Imam Ali, ‘alayhi-s-salaam). He was asked, ‘Do you mean Laylat al-Qadr for which we look in anticipation during the month of Ramadan?’ Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq said, ‘Yes, it is the night in which the (destiny of the) heavens and the earth were determined, and the authority of the Commander of the Faithful was decreed.”
On Laylat al-Qadr, we should seek God’s Grace and Mercy, while rededicating our lives to piety and the regular practice of our faith, including the performance of prayers, offering supplications, and engaging in dhikr. In a widely reported hadith, cited in Sahih Bukhari, the Holy Prophet urges believers to spend Laylat al-Qadr in devotion and to seek God’s forgiveness. He is reported to have said:
“Whosoever establishes prayers in the night of Qadr, out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven”.
Hazrat Imam ‘Ali (a.s) is reported to have said that ‘He who knows himself, knows his Lord.’ Those who put efforts in pursuit of this goal, are passionately in love with God, and they are, in the words of Imam Sultan Mahomed Shah (a.s), ‘the friends of the Spirit’.
It is said that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was a man of stature and sincerity; he had a sense of community-building and that he was receptive to spiritual experience. His family had the distinction of being the caretaker of the Holy Ka’bah. He was a well-respected merchant who played an active role in understanding and engaging with issues of Meccan society. He, nonetheless, regularly retreated from routine life to meditate on the higher truth that he felt was missing in the worship of idols, as was the common practice in Arabia at the time. In that sense, the Prophet was well aware of both the spiritual and material responsibilities even prior to him becoming the Prophet. This understanding of the need to balance one’s life perhaps gave voice to his disaffection with the prevailing civic order and he became actively involved with the Hunafa’ (seekers of truth), a group of people concerned with addressing societal issues of the time as well as seeking the ultimate reality.
It was after fifteen years of meditative practice that during one of his annual retreats in the cave of Hira just outside the city of Mecca, he received his first call of revelation, which henceforth came to be called Laylat al-Qadr, the night of power. It was on this blessed night that the Prophet was summoned to Prophethood with the Divine call as mentioned in Surah Al-Alaq 96, 1 to 5, which says:
This is also corroborated by the Qur’an in Surah Al-Dukhan 44: 3-6, which says:
“We have sent it (the Book), down on a blessed night, since We wanted to forewarn mankind. In that night every matter or Wisdom is decided upon – as a command from Us, for We send revelations as a Mercy from your Lord.”
Therefore, Muslims believe that this night was Laylat al-Qadr, the night of power. In fact, the wording “We sent it down on a blessed night wherein every matter of wisdom is decided upon” bears a profound resemblance to that of Surah al-Qadr, which says:
“Lo! We revealed it (the Qur’an) on the Night of Power. What will convey unto you what the Night of Power is! The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the permission of their Lord, with all decrees. Peace it is until the rising of the dawn.”
Laylat al-Qadr is the “blessed night” on which Allah bestows upon us His infinite mercy; the night wherein we pray and beseech for our spiritual happiness; and as assured in the above ayat, the immeasurable divine response coming from His mercy fulfills our requests. This night is solemnly observed every year by Muslims, many of whom spend the entire night in devotional prayers. It is reported by Bibi Aisha (r.a), the Prophet’s wife, that “the Prophet would strive to do acts of worship during the last ten days of Ramadan more than he would at any other time”, which included Laylat al-Qadr. This devotion and act of worship during the last ten days of Ramadan by some Muslims has continued to this day as a ritual of performing Etekaf in the Masjid, that is, seclusion in the Mosque. The objective behind such an act of worship is that the hearts and minds are fully occupied with thoughts of God and concentrate upon Him alone, through the act of zikr, that is, remembrance of God.
In the Ismaili Muslim tradition, we, however, balance the act of worship and remembrance by fulfilling our worldly responsibilities simultaneously, within the ethics of our faith. Special prayers and tasbihs offered on this night would bring immense blessings. Mu’mineen practice their faith to strive constantly to seek blessings, not just this night but every night, so that practice of our faith – maintaining a balance between din and duniya, becomes part of our daily life.
How can we achieve that balance? Mawlana Hazar Imam guides us on how we can practice our faith, both within and outside the Jamat Khana, in our day to day lives, by creating an attitude where practice of faith becomes a second nature to us.
Al-Mu’ayyad fi’l-Din al-Shirazi (1000-1078), a leading Ismaili Da’i, who served the 18th Imam al-Mustansir bi’llah, (1036-1095) reminds us of a hadith attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) which says that on Laylat al-Qadr, “all creatures, animals, trees, and precious stones prostrate themselves to God and humble themselves before Him.”
Nasir al-Din Tusi (1202-1274), a foremost Ismaili scholar who served the 26th Imam Alaiddeen Muhammad, 27th Imam Rukniddeen Khairi Shah and 28th Imam Shamsiddeen Muhammad, likens the night to the concept of origin, meaning the beginning of the journey of our souls in the world. The final destination of the soul is clearly mentioned in Surah 2, Ayah 156 which states:
“We are from Allah and to Him we will return”
The message here is that it is the soul which returns to God.
Tonight is the night of power, when, and as stated in the Holy Qur’an, angels and spirits descend upon earth with all decrees from God. Let us pray that the mercy and blessings of Allah may touch us tonight and lead us to greater spiritual awakening and upliftment. Ameen.
On this special night we are given the opportunity to reflect about our souls and our journey through this world. We must strive to ensure that the spark within us is not extinguished but rather developed. It is this spark which we seek to discover in ourselves as we perform ibadah on this night. Even a moment of prayer and contemplation promises immense blessings. Insha ‘Allah, this blessed night, this night of power will bring us closer to the Divine grace as we continue our spiritual journey and seek dini happiness and enlightenment.
On this sacred night, let us ask ourselves, to what extent is there a balance in our lives between the spiritual and material aspects? In today’s materialistic world, how can we overcome the challenges in our quest for spiritual enlightenment? In responding to these questions, Laylat al-Qadr provides us an opportunity to reflect upon and commit ourselves to an ongoing spiritual search. So, we can pause and ponder to remind ourselves to dedicate time from our daily activities to think about our spiritual progress, enlightenment and happiness.
On this night, let us pray for Allah’s continuous grace and mercy to keep us on Sirat al-Mustaqim and to be blessed with strength and courage to continue to serve humanity and all God’s creation with love and devotion.
PLEASE ALSO SEE: https://ismailimail.blog/2020/05/14/sad ... nd-months/
ismailimail.blog/2021/05/03/surah-al-qadr-lo-we-revealed-it-the-quran-on-the-night-of-power/
*******
Sadruddin Noorani: Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power is better than a thousand months
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON MAY 14, 2020
By: Sadruddin Noorani (Chicago, USA)
Laylat al-Qadr, (the Night of Power, Night of Destiny), commemorates the night during which the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr on the 23rd night of Ramadan, in accordance with traditions received through Hazrat Ali (A.S) and Hazrat Bibi Fatima al-Zahra (A.S).
“The-Night-of-Al-Qadr-Decree-is-better-than-a-thousand-months”-Surah-al-Qadr-97_3
Laylat al-Qadr is a powerful reminder of the spiritual traditions in Islam. The Holy Qur’an mentions the first revelation representing the Almighty’s Grace received by Prophet Muhammad on Laylat al-Qadr. A reference to this is found in Surah al-Qadr (97:1-5) of the Holy Qur’an, where Allah (SWT) says:
“We have indeed revealed the (Message) in the Night of Power.
And what will explain onto you what the Night of Power is!
The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.
Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah’s permission, on every errand.
Peace!… it is until the rising of the dawn.”
Many interpreters of the Qur’an suggest that the reference to a thousand months is Allah’s way of defining eternal time, as Laylat al-Qadr value cannot be described in terms of worldly time. Any good acts and deeds completed on this night are the equivalent to if you had performed that one single act for 83 year. Some have suggested that this verse indicates that a single moment of enlightenment is better than a thousand months of prayers and devotion and such a moment of recognition transforms the life of the believer into one filled with spiritual grace and peace.
Many Muslims spend the entire night of Qadr reciting zikr (a form of devotion) and other prayers. The 12th century mystic poet Jalal ad-Din Rumi (1207-1273) recommends staying up at night in prayer. In the following verses he says:
“If you stay awake for an entire night,875661
Watch out for a treasure trying to arrive.
You can keep warm by the secret sun of the night,
Keeping your eyes open for the softness of dawn.
Try it for tonight, challenge your sleepy eyes,
Do not lay your head down and wait for the heavenly alms.
For the night is the bringer of gifts…”
Laylat al-Qadr is a night of great majesty, in which believers offer special prayers to Allah, seeking forgiveness for errors and Allah’s grace and mercy. Surah al-Dukhan (44, verse 3) refers to this night as the “blessed night” in which Allah bestows blessings upon us.
The Night of Power not only reminds us about our earthly limitations, but also about our spiritual potential that may be achieved through reflection, practice of faith, and personal spiritual search. On this special night, we are offered the opportunity to reflect upon our soul’s journey through time. As 48th Ismaili Imam, Sultan Mohamed Shah Aga Khan lll (1877-1957) says in his ‘Memoirs’:
“…all human beings carry a spark of the Divine Light. Everyone should strive his best lon-his-highness-aga-sir-sultan-muhammad-shah-aga-khan-iii-president-of-the-assembly-league-of-nations-photo-league-of-nations-archieveto see that this spark be not extinguished but rather developed…”
It is the spark, which we seek to discover in ourselves as we perform prayers in the hopes that this ‘divine spark’ within us should lead us to greater spiritual awakening. Allah says that the Night of Power is equivalent to a thousand months. Thus, every moment of prayer and contemplation promises the seeker more blessings.
Dai Nasir Khusraw (1004-1088) explains the significance of Laylat al-Qadr by saying:
“You illuminate the mosques on the Night of Qadr and make it as bright as the day,nasir-khusraw while your hearts are as dark as the darkest night. Know that illuminations are not enough. when you light the lamps, remind yourselves that your dark hearts, without inner purification, will not become enlightened by the lamps”.
In the Ismaili Muslim Tariqah of Islam, the Imam-of-the-Time plays a vital role in guiding the murid‘s spiritual search and illuminates the path towards enlightenment and vision. On 12th March 1976, Mawlana Hazar Imam delivers the Presidential Address at the International Seerat Conference in Karachi, Pakistan, and he said:
“…the question of what Muslim Society should seek to be in the years ahead. Islam, as 54081seeratjpgeven non-Muslims have observed, is a way of life. This means that every aspect of the individual’s daily existence is guided by Islam: his family relations, his business relations, his education, his health, the means and manner by which he gains his livelihood, his philanthropy, what he sees and hears around him, what he reads, the way he regulates his time, the buildings in which he lives, learns and earns.
I cannot think of any time in Islamic history when Muslims have had a greater opportunity to unite, and to ensure that the society in which they live is that which they have defined and chosen for themselves”.
My non-Muslim friends are always amazed by the perseverance of Ismaili Muslims everywhere. Even in these difficult times, we are finding new ways to pray at home and stay connected within the community and innovative ways to safely make a difference and bring value to improve the quality of life of the community and those among whom we live. Our commitment of selfless service in this crisis is inspiring. And exactly what our communities need. During this Covid-19 pandemic, we are showing the world that there may be limits on what we can do in a time of social distancing, but there are no limits to the kindness of Ismaili Muslims. Let us all continue to put health and safety first as we continue the important work we are doing as Ismailis.
Laylat al-Qadr is a reminder for us to reflect on our inner self and to work towards our spiritual destiny. It is also an opportunity for us to reflect upon the blessings of Allah (S.W.T) and follow the Hadith (qualities, habits and guidance) of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.S). May the blessings of Laylat al-Qadr touch everyone of us and illuminate our hearts and lives. Ameen.
/ismailimail.blog/2020/05/14/sadruddin-noorani-laylat-al-qadr-the-night-of-power-is-better-than-a-thousand-months/
Mozambique Laylatul Qadr Video - an ITREB from Africa Initiative
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmpuNmZbl_E&t=7s
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmpuNmZbl_E&t=7s
The Glorious Qur'an
Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_vfT27mQeo
As part of our series What Ismailis Believe, this short film details the historical origins of the Holy Qur'an, its significance to Muslim societies, and its inspiration in our daily lives.
Re: Laila-tul-Qadr 16 Chantas
*16 CHHANTAS*
```As explained earlier, a chhanto is requested for forgiveness and for purification, in the jamatkhana. The mukhi or the kameria or any person(s) authorized by them may administer a chhanto on the face of the person.
A religious person, being conscious about his actions, seeks divine forgiveness for his unintentional sins in the night of Laila tul Qadr.
A sin is a violation of the divine law, committed intentionally or unintentionally.
Such a chance to seek forgiveness comes only once a year when a mureed can request a chhanto in the Night of Power to get purification.```
```We have read above that the chhanta ceremony was introduced by the Holy Prophet himself.
I had learnt from the elders, in my young age, that before the arrival of Mowlana Imam Aga Shah Hasanali Shah there was no celebration of the
Laila tul Qadr among the Jamats of India.
*Pir Aga Ali Shah had instructed the jamat in India to observe it on the twenty third night of the month of Ramazan.*```
```There are sixteen chhantas available to the worshipper, who can choose one or more or all to be administered to him in one ceremony. It is his choice. These are:```
```1. TAUBAH nu chhanto
Taubah means repentance with a promise of “no repeats”. But man is a weak creature. He breaks his promise frequently. This chhanto is for this infringement of the taubah and for reviving his promise to refrain from the sin.```
```2. TRANN (three) WAQT DUA' NI BHOOL/CHOOK nu chhanto
Every mureed must say his/her obligatory Dua three times a day without fail. A person may forget his duty or miss it out of negligence. This chhanto may grant him a pardon.```
```3. DASOND NI BHOOL/CHOOK nu chhanto
Dasond like Dua’ is obligatory, as both are the foundation of the faith,
(iman) and therefore, must be followed diligently. Any human error may cause some sort of irregularity in paying dasond. This chhanto is necessary even though there is such a chhanto in the monthly majlis of Chand raat.```
```4. GOONAH NI BHOOL / CHOOK nu chhanto
Human weakness is evident in man's mistakes and sins. The Holy Prophet
said: "Verily, man has a combination of mistake and forgetfulness." And
he further said that when sins of people would increase the calamities would increase too."
A person cannot remember all his sins, therefore in Islam we are told to say always the 'istighfar' (astagh firullahi rabbi wa tu bo alayh).
The Prophet said: "I swear by God that I ask pardon of God, and repent before Him more than seventy times daily."
In another report he said: "O men! Repent and turn to God, for verily I repent before Him a hundred times a day. We, therefore, take the advantage of this opportunity to get a chhanto for our sins.```
```5. GIRBHAVASS nu chhanto
Every human being had given a promise while he was in the mother's womb, to be a good servant of God. Pir Sadaruddin said:
“'Fulfil your promise made in the womb."
Here the seeker of a pardon should ask for the forgiveness for any
infringement of the promise made in his mother's womb.```
```6. QABR MA PUCHHANA nu chhanto
Islam warns us that we will be questioned about our deeds in the grave after death. This chhanto is taken to seek for divine help to prepare for that event.```
```7. QABR NI BHEED nu chhanto
The Holy Prophet has informed us that the wicked will feel the pressure in the grave as a punishment. The grave will squeeze him. This chhanto is taken for the mercy of the Almighty to be saved from this punishment through good deeds we performed during our lifetime. It is reported that the Prophet used to pray for protection from the punishment in the grave
(azaabil qabr).```
```8. CHAAR JUG nu chhanto
We have evolved through 8.4 million lives in the four yoogs. (The life span differed according to the stage of avolution. For example: Bacteria and insects live a short life. There are hundred of species that live only a few years.) Through this chhanto we seek forgiveness for any transgression of the divine law we had committed during that period, and which may still be pending, The length of the four yoogs is 4,320,000 years.```
```9. CHHADIDAR nu chhanto
Chhadi means a stick, a sign of authority. Chhadidar is a person who has been given some sort of authority such as a mukhi, a kamaria, a councillor or any person who holds a post in the jamat, appointed by the Holy Imam.
This is the chhanto for him/her because they will have to face extra
accountability. Any sin or mistake committed during his/her service is
forgiven through the jamat.```
```10. GUPT GOONAH nu chhanto
Gupt means secret. Gupt goonah means an act of fornication, promiscuity, adultery, or any sin or crime he has committed secretly. It is better to beg for a pardon here in this life than to be questioned after death.```
```11. PAHLI MANZIL nu chhanto
Manzil means: station, destination etc. Here it means, metaphorically, the first station of a dead body is the graveyard. The body is washed and
prepared for the last journey. The soul is trembling in anticipation of what lies ahead. This chhanto is a prayer for mercy for him and spiritual help in the form of mercy.```
```12. BIJI MANZIL nu chhanto
The second station is the grave. This is the final destination of the dead
body. The soul is afraid of the consequences of the questioning in the grave for accountability for one's deeds. This chhanto is a prayer of the jamat for mercy on him.```
```13. BAWAN GHATI nu chhanto
According to our sacred ginans the human soul has to pass through fifty-two ghaties. A ghati is a narrow and dangerous pass in the mountains; here it refers to the rigorous striving on the path of righteousness. Allah mentions about the ghati: “But he strove not unto (crossing over) the Ascent steep."
And the Prophet said: “Because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way,which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." Thus, a ghati is a check point where a soul will be detained for a particular sin. For example:
Our Holy Pir Sadaruddin mentions, in the book of Bawan Ghati, about the
first ghati which is the check point for those who had not performed their holy Dua' three times a day regularly, no matter how much he did in other fields of the faith, he will be detained at this ghati and punished for the sin.
This chhanto is to get forgiveness for the past mistakes and for the granting of strength to strive to do better in the future.```
```14. OGNIS (19) TOL nu chhanto
A tol (or tollah in Hindi) means an assemblage, a group. On the Day of
Judgement there will be twenty groups of the souls of mankind who will be gathered together for accountability..
One of them will consist of those who had succeeded the test and declared successful.
The other nineteen groups will face the punishment for a particular sin. For example: There will be a group of traders who had, during their life on earth, cheated their customers by weighing less than the normal weight and took more than their usual right. At more than ten places Allah has warned us about the dishonesty in weights and measurement. This chhanto is requested for the forgiveness of the past mistakes which also make the sinner conscious about the future.```
```15. PULSIRAT nu chhanto
There is a bridge over Hell which leads to the Paradise. The virtuous will pass over it easily but the wicked will fall into the fire. The chhanto is requested for the forgiveness of those sins which might cause tumbling over the bridge and for the strength to improve in the future.```
```16. ROSHNAI nu chhanto
This is the chhanto of light. To seek forgiveness from those acts which
may cause obstruction on the path of achieving a gift of light.```
**MAHADIN nu chhanto**
There is another chhanto outside of this group of sixteen chhantas known as the MAHADIN nu chhanto. Mahadin is the Day of Judgement. This chhanto is performed near the end of the life or after death, by the mukhi of the jamat.
It is not meant for the performance on the night of the Laila tul Qadr.
Only when the Beloved Khudavind Hazar Imam visits a jamat the elderly mureeds may request such a chhanto with the mubarak hand of the Holy Imam.```
```Reference: Abualy A.Aziz, Ph.D.Missionary | IsmaiLi tariqa Part (2)```
```As explained earlier, a chhanto is requested for forgiveness and for purification, in the jamatkhana. The mukhi or the kameria or any person(s) authorized by them may administer a chhanto on the face of the person.
A religious person, being conscious about his actions, seeks divine forgiveness for his unintentional sins in the night of Laila tul Qadr.
A sin is a violation of the divine law, committed intentionally or unintentionally.
Such a chance to seek forgiveness comes only once a year when a mureed can request a chhanto in the Night of Power to get purification.```
```We have read above that the chhanta ceremony was introduced by the Holy Prophet himself.
I had learnt from the elders, in my young age, that before the arrival of Mowlana Imam Aga Shah Hasanali Shah there was no celebration of the
Laila tul Qadr among the Jamats of India.
*Pir Aga Ali Shah had instructed the jamat in India to observe it on the twenty third night of the month of Ramazan.*```
```There are sixteen chhantas available to the worshipper, who can choose one or more or all to be administered to him in one ceremony. It is his choice. These are:```
```1. TAUBAH nu chhanto
Taubah means repentance with a promise of “no repeats”. But man is a weak creature. He breaks his promise frequently. This chhanto is for this infringement of the taubah and for reviving his promise to refrain from the sin.```
```2. TRANN (three) WAQT DUA' NI BHOOL/CHOOK nu chhanto
Every mureed must say his/her obligatory Dua three times a day without fail. A person may forget his duty or miss it out of negligence. This chhanto may grant him a pardon.```
```3. DASOND NI BHOOL/CHOOK nu chhanto
Dasond like Dua’ is obligatory, as both are the foundation of the faith,
(iman) and therefore, must be followed diligently. Any human error may cause some sort of irregularity in paying dasond. This chhanto is necessary even though there is such a chhanto in the monthly majlis of Chand raat.```
```4. GOONAH NI BHOOL / CHOOK nu chhanto
Human weakness is evident in man's mistakes and sins. The Holy Prophet
said: "Verily, man has a combination of mistake and forgetfulness." And
he further said that when sins of people would increase the calamities would increase too."
A person cannot remember all his sins, therefore in Islam we are told to say always the 'istighfar' (astagh firullahi rabbi wa tu bo alayh).
The Prophet said: "I swear by God that I ask pardon of God, and repent before Him more than seventy times daily."
In another report he said: "O men! Repent and turn to God, for verily I repent before Him a hundred times a day. We, therefore, take the advantage of this opportunity to get a chhanto for our sins.```
```5. GIRBHAVASS nu chhanto
Every human being had given a promise while he was in the mother's womb, to be a good servant of God. Pir Sadaruddin said:
“'Fulfil your promise made in the womb."
Here the seeker of a pardon should ask for the forgiveness for any
infringement of the promise made in his mother's womb.```
```6. QABR MA PUCHHANA nu chhanto
Islam warns us that we will be questioned about our deeds in the grave after death. This chhanto is taken to seek for divine help to prepare for that event.```
```7. QABR NI BHEED nu chhanto
The Holy Prophet has informed us that the wicked will feel the pressure in the grave as a punishment. The grave will squeeze him. This chhanto is taken for the mercy of the Almighty to be saved from this punishment through good deeds we performed during our lifetime. It is reported that the Prophet used to pray for protection from the punishment in the grave
(azaabil qabr).```
```8. CHAAR JUG nu chhanto
We have evolved through 8.4 million lives in the four yoogs. (The life span differed according to the stage of avolution. For example: Bacteria and insects live a short life. There are hundred of species that live only a few years.) Through this chhanto we seek forgiveness for any transgression of the divine law we had committed during that period, and which may still be pending, The length of the four yoogs is 4,320,000 years.```
```9. CHHADIDAR nu chhanto
Chhadi means a stick, a sign of authority. Chhadidar is a person who has been given some sort of authority such as a mukhi, a kamaria, a councillor or any person who holds a post in the jamat, appointed by the Holy Imam.
This is the chhanto for him/her because they will have to face extra
accountability. Any sin or mistake committed during his/her service is
forgiven through the jamat.```
```10. GUPT GOONAH nu chhanto
Gupt means secret. Gupt goonah means an act of fornication, promiscuity, adultery, or any sin or crime he has committed secretly. It is better to beg for a pardon here in this life than to be questioned after death.```
```11. PAHLI MANZIL nu chhanto
Manzil means: station, destination etc. Here it means, metaphorically, the first station of a dead body is the graveyard. The body is washed and
prepared for the last journey. The soul is trembling in anticipation of what lies ahead. This chhanto is a prayer for mercy for him and spiritual help in the form of mercy.```
```12. BIJI MANZIL nu chhanto
The second station is the grave. This is the final destination of the dead
body. The soul is afraid of the consequences of the questioning in the grave for accountability for one's deeds. This chhanto is a prayer of the jamat for mercy on him.```
```13. BAWAN GHATI nu chhanto
According to our sacred ginans the human soul has to pass through fifty-two ghaties. A ghati is a narrow and dangerous pass in the mountains; here it refers to the rigorous striving on the path of righteousness. Allah mentions about the ghati: “But he strove not unto (crossing over) the Ascent steep."
And the Prophet said: “Because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way,which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." Thus, a ghati is a check point where a soul will be detained for a particular sin. For example:
Our Holy Pir Sadaruddin mentions, in the book of Bawan Ghati, about the
first ghati which is the check point for those who had not performed their holy Dua' three times a day regularly, no matter how much he did in other fields of the faith, he will be detained at this ghati and punished for the sin.
This chhanto is to get forgiveness for the past mistakes and for the granting of strength to strive to do better in the future.```
```14. OGNIS (19) TOL nu chhanto
A tol (or tollah in Hindi) means an assemblage, a group. On the Day of
Judgement there will be twenty groups of the souls of mankind who will be gathered together for accountability..
One of them will consist of those who had succeeded the test and declared successful.
The other nineteen groups will face the punishment for a particular sin. For example: There will be a group of traders who had, during their life on earth, cheated their customers by weighing less than the normal weight and took more than their usual right. At more than ten places Allah has warned us about the dishonesty in weights and measurement. This chhanto is requested for the forgiveness of the past mistakes which also make the sinner conscious about the future.```
```15. PULSIRAT nu chhanto
There is a bridge over Hell which leads to the Paradise. The virtuous will pass over it easily but the wicked will fall into the fire. The chhanto is requested for the forgiveness of those sins which might cause tumbling over the bridge and for the strength to improve in the future.```
```16. ROSHNAI nu chhanto
This is the chhanto of light. To seek forgiveness from those acts which
may cause obstruction on the path of achieving a gift of light.```
**MAHADIN nu chhanto**
There is another chhanto outside of this group of sixteen chhantas known as the MAHADIN nu chhanto. Mahadin is the Day of Judgement. This chhanto is performed near the end of the life or after death, by the mukhi of the jamat.
It is not meant for the performance on the night of the Laila tul Qadr.
Only when the Beloved Khudavind Hazar Imam visits a jamat the elderly mureeds may request such a chhanto with the mubarak hand of the Holy Imam.```
```Reference: Abualy A.Aziz, Ph.D.Missionary | IsmaiLi tariqa Part (2)```
Re: Laila-tul-Qadr 15 Chantas
Here is another article on the special Layltul Qadr Chantas.
Once a year the need for repentance and the seriousness that is required is brought
to our mind by the special Chantas which are offered on the occasion of
Lail-tul-Qadra. Fortunately, on this Night of Power, through the grace of Hazar
Imam, we also have the opportunity to take Chanta for relief from obstacles other
than our daily sins. In total, one has an opportunity to take 15 Chantas. An
understanding of the meaning and significance will help us benefit most from this
once a year opportunity to cleanse our soul. The following is a brief explanation of
15 Chantas.
Download here the full text
https://ismaili.net/source/15chantas.pdf
Once a year the need for repentance and the seriousness that is required is brought
to our mind by the special Chantas which are offered on the occasion of
Lail-tul-Qadra. Fortunately, on this Night of Power, through the grace of Hazar
Imam, we also have the opportunity to take Chanta for relief from obstacles other
than our daily sins. In total, one has an opportunity to take 15 Chantas. An
understanding of the meaning and significance will help us benefit most from this
once a year opportunity to cleanse our soul. The following is a brief explanation of
15 Chantas.
Download here the full text
https://ismaili.net/source/15chantas.pdf
Re: Laila-tul-Qadr
Does anyone have booklet of lailatul qadar written by Abu ali missionary
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 735
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Laylat Ul Qadr
Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power, commemorates one of the most significant events in the history of Islam. It is the night when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) received the first revelation from Allah.
According to tradition, the Prophet Muhammad used to retreat to Jabal an-Nur, a mountain outside of Mecca, for a month or so every year. There, he would meditate in isolation in the cave of Hira. During one such retreat the Prophet had a profound spiritual experience when the Angel Gabriel inspired him to:
“Recite in the Name of thy Lord Who created, created man of a blood clot. Recite! Thy Lord is most noble, Who taught by the Pen, taught man that which he knew not.” (Surah al Alaq, ayat 1-5)
Laylat al-Qadr commemorates the night during which these first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed.
The Prophet continued to receive revelations over a twenty-three year period. These provided guidance to the Prophet and the believers, and often responded to the challenges faced by the emerging Muslim community. The Qur’an is thus closely linked to the historical circumstances of the Prophet Muhammad’s life and the experiences of the Muslim ummah of that period.
In interpreting the Qur’an according to the time and age, the Imam-of-the-Time guides his followers on the path to spiritual enlightenment and moral upliftment. At the Word of God, Art of Man International Colloquium in London in 2003, Mawlana Hazar Imam stated that the Qur’an “is concerned with the salvation of the soul, but commensurately also with the ethical imperatives which sustain an equitable social order.”
Throughout history, the revelation of the Qur’an has offered inspiration to Muslims in every time and place. As scholar Reza Shah-Kazemi has observed, “Exoterically, the particular verses of the Qur’an are deemed to have descended ‘upon’ the heart of the Prophet; but esoterically the essence of the Qur’an is deemed to have descended into the heart of the Prophet.”
Every year, Muslims observe this event as a reminder for our own spiritual search. In Surah al Qadr, ayats 3 to 5, Allah says:
“The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the leave of their Lord, with every command; peace it is until the break of dawn.”
The descent of the angels and the Spirit mentioned in this verse has been understood by many Muslims to indicate Allah’s Grace and Mercy during this special night. Thus, on Laylat al-Qadr, we should aim to seek that Grace and Mercy, while rededicating ourselves to piety and the regular practice of faith, including the performance of prayers, offering supplications, and engaging in remembrance, or dhikr.
In a hadith, the Prophet urges us to spend Laylat al-Qadr in devotion and to seek Allah’s forgiveness. He is reported to have said:
“Whosoever establishes the prayers on the night of Qadr, out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.”
In the Shia Ismaili tradition, Allah’s Grace and the Mercy of His guidance have continued through the institution of Imamat to ensure that the Ta‘lim and Ta’wil of Allah’s final message would be available to humankind according to time and circumstances. From the time of Hazrat Ali to the present, the living Imam’s Nur guides us to achieve spiritual and worldly happiness.
Hazrat Ali is reported to have said that ‘He who knows himself, knows his Lord.’ Those who ascribe effort in pursuit of this goal, are passionately in love with Allah and they are, in the words of Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah, the friends of the Spirit. Mawlana Hazar Imam has also time and again emphasised that the happiness we attain through spiritual experiences is different from any material happiness.
Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr on the 23rd night of Ramadan, marking a night of special prayer and remembrance of Allah. According to Qadi al-Nu'man, a prominent Fatimid scholar, Hazrat Ali said, “The Messenger of God... used to wake his family on the night of the 23rd and sprinkle water on the faces of those that slept. [The Lady] Fatima would never allow any one of her family to sleep during that night.”
The occasion provides us with an opportunity to reflect and re-commit ourselves to ongoing spiritual search. (TheIsmaili)
According to tradition, the Prophet Muhammad used to retreat to Jabal an-Nur, a mountain outside of Mecca, for a month or so every year. There, he would meditate in isolation in the cave of Hira. During one such retreat the Prophet had a profound spiritual experience when the Angel Gabriel inspired him to:
“Recite in the Name of thy Lord Who created, created man of a blood clot. Recite! Thy Lord is most noble, Who taught by the Pen, taught man that which he knew not.” (Surah al Alaq, ayat 1-5)
Laylat al-Qadr commemorates the night during which these first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed.
The Prophet continued to receive revelations over a twenty-three year period. These provided guidance to the Prophet and the believers, and often responded to the challenges faced by the emerging Muslim community. The Qur’an is thus closely linked to the historical circumstances of the Prophet Muhammad’s life and the experiences of the Muslim ummah of that period.
In interpreting the Qur’an according to the time and age, the Imam-of-the-Time guides his followers on the path to spiritual enlightenment and moral upliftment. At the Word of God, Art of Man International Colloquium in London in 2003, Mawlana Hazar Imam stated that the Qur’an “is concerned with the salvation of the soul, but commensurately also with the ethical imperatives which sustain an equitable social order.”
Throughout history, the revelation of the Qur’an has offered inspiration to Muslims in every time and place. As scholar Reza Shah-Kazemi has observed, “Exoterically, the particular verses of the Qur’an are deemed to have descended ‘upon’ the heart of the Prophet; but esoterically the essence of the Qur’an is deemed to have descended into the heart of the Prophet.”
Every year, Muslims observe this event as a reminder for our own spiritual search. In Surah al Qadr, ayats 3 to 5, Allah says:
“The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the leave of their Lord, with every command; peace it is until the break of dawn.”
The descent of the angels and the Spirit mentioned in this verse has been understood by many Muslims to indicate Allah’s Grace and Mercy during this special night. Thus, on Laylat al-Qadr, we should aim to seek that Grace and Mercy, while rededicating ourselves to piety and the regular practice of faith, including the performance of prayers, offering supplications, and engaging in remembrance, or dhikr.
In a hadith, the Prophet urges us to spend Laylat al-Qadr in devotion and to seek Allah’s forgiveness. He is reported to have said:
“Whosoever establishes the prayers on the night of Qadr, out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah’s rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven.”
In the Shia Ismaili tradition, Allah’s Grace and the Mercy of His guidance have continued through the institution of Imamat to ensure that the Ta‘lim and Ta’wil of Allah’s final message would be available to humankind according to time and circumstances. From the time of Hazrat Ali to the present, the living Imam’s Nur guides us to achieve spiritual and worldly happiness.
Hazrat Ali is reported to have said that ‘He who knows himself, knows his Lord.’ Those who ascribe effort in pursuit of this goal, are passionately in love with Allah and they are, in the words of Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah, the friends of the Spirit. Mawlana Hazar Imam has also time and again emphasised that the happiness we attain through spiritual experiences is different from any material happiness.
Shia Ismaili Muslims observe Laylat al-Qadr on the 23rd night of Ramadan, marking a night of special prayer and remembrance of Allah. According to Qadi al-Nu'man, a prominent Fatimid scholar, Hazrat Ali said, “The Messenger of God... used to wake his family on the night of the 23rd and sprinkle water on the faces of those that slept. [The Lady] Fatima would never allow any one of her family to sleep during that night.”
The occasion provides us with an opportunity to reflect and re-commit ourselves to ongoing spiritual search. (TheIsmaili)
-
ismaili103
- Posts: 542
- Joined: Wed Mar 20, 2013 1:40 am
Re:
AdminAdmin wrote: ↑Tue Aug 23, 2011 12:57 pm From the balcony of his palace, Imam Hakim made a declaration to thousands of people: "I am the tenth manifestation of God"
Historians said he was mad. Ismailis say he was telling the truth which non-Ismailis could never understand. (Sharia and Haqiqah are two paths worlds apart, they shall never meet)
But The Imam made this declaration in a gathering of thousands where not even one was Hindu or Khojas, they were all Arabs.
There are many books telling about this. declaration of the Imam. You can find it in Gibbon's Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, volume 6 page 254,
also in Aziz, Philippe. "Les sectes secrètes de l'Islam: de l'Ordre des Assassins aux Frères Musulmans." Paris: Robert Laffont, 1983. About 90 pp. on the Ismailis, including annexes.
I cannot find the quote of Imam Hakim about 10th manifestation in Gibons book page 254
Re: Laila-tul-Qadr
Qadi Noaman clearly wrote in Dua'm that Imams are creation of Allah. They live amongst human beings to guide them.
-
ismaili103
- Posts: 542
- Joined: Wed Mar 20, 2013 1:40 am
Re: Re:
Ok I have found it.ismaili103 wrote: ↑Sat Apr 27, 2024 2:22 amAdminAdmin wrote: ↑Tue Aug 23, 2011 12:57 pm From the balcony of his palace, Imam Hakim made a declaration to thousands of people: "I am the tenth manifestation of God"
Historians said he was mad. Ismailis say he was telling the truth which non-Ismailis could never understand. (Sharia and Haqiqah are two paths worlds apart, they shall never meet)
But The Imam made this declaration in a gathering of thousands where not even one was Hindu or Khojas, they were all Arabs.
There are many books telling about this. declaration of the Imam. You can find it in Gibbon's Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, volume 6 page 254,
also in Aziz, Philippe. "Les sectes secrètes de l'Islam: de l'Ordre des Assassins aux Frères Musulmans." Paris: Robert Laffont, 1983. About 90 pp. on the Ismailis, including annexes.
I cannot find the quote of Imam Hakim about 10th manifestation in Gibons book page 254
Re: Laila-tul-Qadr
GIBBON was a cunning historian. He has written against Muslims. In the chapter where he has mentioned about incarnation, has also written 8 so called cruelities of Imam Hakim against other religions.