1

Names of Allaah (Ta’ala)

As-Subbooh ‫السبوح‬: The Perfect, Who is praised and glorified extensively

Introduction:

To truly know the Names and Attributes of Allaah (Ta’ala), we need to act upon their meanings
by learning how to glorify Allaah (Ta’ala) practically.

i.e., for instance, Allaah’s Name, As-Subbooh – When a person is going through certain
situations, he should behave in a way that shows that he truly glorifies Allaah (Ta’ala). It is not
just about saying Subhaan Allaah with one’s tongue. What one has established in his heart, and
what action he does, indicates his true intention and glorification of Allaah (Ta’ala).

As-Subbooh is to free Allaah (Ta’ala) from every defect.

If one believes that Allaah (Ta’ala) is Al-Wakeel, surely, He (Ta’ala) will suffice a person from all
his concerns and dispose of (manage) his affairs in the best way.

‫المقدم المؤخر‬ Al-Muqaddim, Mu’akhkhir – He (Ta’ala) is the One Who gives precedence to

whatever He (Ta’ala) wills of time, degrees and the order of things. He (Ta’ala) brings forward
what He (Ta’ala) wills and delays whatever He wills. Everything is based on His Wisdom and
Mercy, and the reasons may be hidden from us.

If you are late for something, don’t get angry at your spouse or driver or anyone for that matter,
because Allaah (Ta’ala) is the One Who delayed you with His infinite Wisdom and Mercy.

If someone is ahead of you in anything (i.e., school, work, competitions, etc.) don’t be upset;
Allaah (Ta’ala) is the One Who gives precedence to some over others [e.g., Prophet Muhammad
(Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam)] over all of mankind, scholars and the Sahaabah over other
people, etc.)

In every detail of a person’s life, he should be recalling the meanings of the Names of Allaah
(Ta’ala). They are not just words that have no meaning in one’s heart.

If one perfects the knowledge of Allaah’s (Ta’ala) Names, his life will also be perfect. One needs
to revive the meanings of His (Ta’ala) Names in his life.

The Name of Allaah, As-Subbooh

The Names of Allaah (Ta’ala) have only two sources; the Qur’an and the Sunnah of Prophet
Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam).

The Name As-Subbooh can be found in the Sunnah in the Hadeeth narrated by ‘Aishah (Radia-
Allaahu ‘anha). She said: “The Messenger of Allaah (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) used to
say in his Ruku’ and Sujood:
َ َ َ ْ ُّ َ
ُّ ‫كةِ َو‬ ُّ ُ ُّ ُ
ِ ‫الر‬
‘ ‫وح‬ ِ ‫ ‘ سبوح قدوس رب المالئ‬-
 2

“The Perfect, the Blessed, the Lord of the angels and the spirit.” [Sahih Muslim 487a]

As-Subbooh and Al-Quddoos have similar meanings but are not the same, like the difference
between (Tasbeeh- means saying 'Subhaan Allah' (Glory be to Allah)) and (Taqdees- saying
'Subhaan Al-Malik Al-Quddoos' (Glory be to The Sovereign, The Most Holy) or 'Subboohun
Quddoosun, Rabbu-l-Malaa'ikati war-Rooh' (The Most Glorious, The Most Holy; The Lord of the
angels and of Jibreel).)

The scholars like Shaikh ‘Abdur-Razzaq al-Badr in his book “Fiqh al-Asma al-Husna” explained
the two Names together in one chapter because of their similar meanings; however, there is a
difference.

Abu Is-haaq used to say As-Subbooh is the One Who is free of any defect. Al-Quddoos means the
Blessed (Al-Mubaarak), and the Pure (At-Taahir).

Some scholars said it means the One Who is glorified and sanctified.

Accordingly, the meaning of the supplication mentioned above is: As-Subbooh is the One Who is
free from any defect, or of having a partner, and free from all that doesn’t suit his Divinity. Al-
Quddoos refers to the One Who is Pure from all that doesn’t suit the Creator. These two Names
imply freeing Allaah (Ta’ala) from all defects and all things that contradict His Perfection i.e., He
doesn’t sleep, He doesn’t get tired, He doesn’t beget, He was not begotten, etc.

Another meaning is to free Allaah, the Exalted, from all that is evil or is of any resemblance, as
that doesn’t suit His Majesty.

The Impact of Believing in this Noble Name

1. Belief/ faith/ Imaan in the Name

To truly believe that Allaah (Ta’ala) is free from every defect, free from falsehood or evil

To Him (Ta’ala) belongs absolute Perfection. His Essence is free from every defect, His Qadar is
free from injustice, His Laws are free from oppression, His Speech is free from mistakes and
contradictions.

We are commanded by Allaah (Ta’ala) in the Qur’an to glorify Him (Ta’ala) with Tasbeeh. He
(Ta’ala) mentioned the word in the Qur’an over 80 times in different instances. We are
commanded by Allaah (Ta’ala) to glorify Him in 18 verses, and seven Surahs in the Qur’an start
with Tasbeeh. This tells us the importance that the Tasbeeh should have in our lives, and its great
virtue, and the noble status of this Attribute of Allaah (Ta’ala). Allaah even showed us how to
glorify Him (Ta’ala) in the Qur’an.

Allaah (Ta’ala) created the creation to know Him (Ta’ala); for if they know Him (Ta’ala) they will
love Him (Ta’ala); and if they love Him (Ta’ala), they will worship Him (Ta’ala). The purpose
behind our creation is to glorify Allaah (Ta’ala). Evidence for that is the story of Adam (‘Alayhis-
salaam) in Surat Al-Baqarah. The story is mentioned in the context of honoring Adam and his
offspring.
 3

َ َ َ َ ْ َ َّ ُ َّ َ َ ٓ َ َّ َ ٰٓ َ َ ْ َّ ُ ً َ ْ َْ َّ ُ َ ََ َ َّ َ ُ
ٰ ٰ ٰ
ۚ ‫هو ٱَّلِى خلق لكم ما ِِف ٱلر ِض َجِيعا ثم ٱستوى إَِل ٱلسماءِ فسوىهن سبع سمـو ٍت‬
ْ َ ‫كل‬
‫َش ٍء َعل ِيم‬
ُ ََُ
ِ ِ ‫وهو ب‬

It is He Who created for you all of that which is on the earth. Then He Istawa (rose over)
towards the heaven, [His being above all creation], and made them seven heavens, and He is
Knowing of all things. [Surat Al-Baqarah (2:29)]

Out of kindness and mercy towards mankind, Allaah (Ta’ala) created all the things on the surface
of the earth so that we might benefit from them, enjoy them, learn from them, and use them to
worship Allaah (Ta’ala). Everything on the earth should remind us of Allaah (Ta’ala).

َ ‫ِيف ًة ۖ قَال ُ ٓوا۟ َأ ََتْ َع ُل ف‬

َ‫ِيها َمن ُي ْفس ُِد فِيها‬ َ َ َْ َ َ ْ َ َ َ ْ
‫ِإَوذ قال َر ُّبك ل ِل َملـٰٓئِكةِ إ ِ ِّن َجاعِل ِِف ٱلر ِض خل‬
ْ
َ َُْ َ َ َ َُْ َ ٓ َ َ َ َ ُ ََُ َ َْ ُ َُ َُْ َ ََٓ ُ
‫َوي َ ْس ِفك ٱلِماء وَنن نسبِح ِِبمدِك ونقدِس لك ۖ قال إ ِ ِّن أعلم ما َل تعلمون‬
And [mention, O Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam)], when your Lord said to the
angels: "Indeed, I will make upon the earth, successive generations." They said: "Will You
place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we exalt You with
praise and declare Your perfection?" He [Allaah] said: "Indeed, I know that which you do not
know." [Surat Al-Baqarah (2:30)]

The angels are keen to love and glorify Allaah (Ta’ala), and they hate disobedience and mischief
in the land. This is why they said that. In the story of Adam (‘Alayhis-salaam), Allaah (Ta’ala)
shows honor for Adam by informing the honorable angels about his creation, and that was the
first honor for Adam and his offspring. The angels didn’t object to Allaah (Ta’ala) creating Adam
(‘Alayhis-salaam). Rather, it is out of their Ta’dheem (magnification), glorification, and veneration
of Allaah (Ta’ala), they objected. It is because of their hatred for any mischief-makers, and
whatever anger Allaah (Ta’ala). They objected out of their love for Allaah (Ta’ala) and hatred for
His enemies and those who disobey Him (Ta’ala).

In Surat Al-Baqarah, Allaah (Ta’ala) has mentioned the shedding of blood many times. He even
forbade the Bani Isra’eel from shedding blood, but they disobeyed Him and even killed their
own prophets. He (Ta’ala) has also mentioned Al-Ifsaad (mischief) and those who made mischief
in the land in the context of the hypocrites. They made mischief in the land, especially when they
took leadership.

The angels’ inquiry was because of their veneration and love of Allaah (Ta’ala). In their denial,
they pointed out their task, their duty, their mission (to exalt Allaah (Ta’ala) with praise and
declare His Perfection). This should be our duty as well. At-Tasbeeh and At-Taqdees are for the
angels and the humans. They both partake in this mission. Allaah (Ta’ala) is the Only One Who
deserves to be served.

All disobedience in the land is considered as mischief in the land. If someone really wants to
glorify and sanctify Allaah (Ta’ala), then he should stop all kinds of disobedience to Allaah
 4

(Ta’ala) starting with Shirk, Kufr, Bid’ah, etc. i.e., like Qaroon (Korah), who attributed all his
success to his own knowledge and not to Allaah (Ta’ala).

If one really believes that Allaah is As-Subbooh and Al-Quddoos, then from the most important
impact of belief in these two Names is to avoid mischief in the land. And this is taken from the
statement of the angels in the Ayah mentioned above. It is not just about saying the words, but
acting upon the belief (i.e., to stop all disobediences, like backbiting, lying, cheating, etc.);
otherwise, one’s tongue is saying “Subhaan Allaah”, but his actions are contradicting his words.
One needs to admit one’s deficiency and acknowledge that Allaah (Ta’ala) is free from it. One
should not be proud of his intelligence or talents, etc.

From the statement of the angels, we learn that a being whose state is shedding blood and
creating mischief is not suitable to populate the earth; rather such beings will destroy what is
constructed. Shedding blood is one of the most grievous sins.

َ َٓ ُ ََْ َ ُ ُْ
The angels said about the human beings “‫فك ٱلِماء‬ِ ‫ ”يفسِد فِيها ويس‬it spoils and sheds
blood – (present tense verbs), indicating the frequency of these matters i.e., happening again and
again, continuously. They wanted to say that this is the character of the humans, which
contradicts the purpose of their existence and the purpose of the creation of the earth which was
created in an organized system. So, when people commit sins, the system of the earth is
disturbed. The corruption on the earth is because of what human beings have earned from their
sins.

Allaah (Azza wa Jall) created the earth to establish Dhikr on it and set up justice. This should be
the state of the Khalifah (the successor), but the angels said this Khalifah is going to make
mischief and shed blood.

The angels also mentioned their own states. The interpreters have given two meanings for this
statement of the angels.

1. We angels, this is our state/ duty/ task which we carry out, whereas this Khalifah makes
mischief and doesn’t make reformation on the earth.
2. Is it not enough that we are glorifying You (O Allaah) and glorifying Your praises?

The most correct point of view is the first one, that they are mentioning their state, carrying out
their duty, and they don’t make mischief or shed blood.
At-Tasbeeh– Glorification
It is a basic task that we should be occupied with. Even when we are educating our children and
students, we should teach them how to glorify Allaah (Ta’ala).
‫ – ز ز‬At-Tanzeeh means to free Allaah (Azza wa Jall), to keep Allaah (Azza wa Jall)
‫ نسبح‬means ‫ننه‬
far above imperfections.

Tasbeeh is derived from Sabaha, Yasbah, Sibaahah – like swimming. When someone swims in
the sea, he will be swimming away from the shore; so from this meaning comes At-Tasbeeh
which means that we have to keep Allaah (Azza wa Jall) far above, Exalted and away from every
imperfection. When we are doing this act of worship, we must do two things:

1. free Allaah (Azza wa Jall) from deficiencies in His Perfection,

2. and free Him (Azza wa Jall) from resemblance to His creation.
 5

The angels don’t see Allaah (Azza wa Jall), but they hear His Voice, His Speech. They believe in
the unseen because He (Azza wa Jall) is unseen to them. This is a common matter between us
and the angels. Our test in this Dunya revolves around our belief in the unseen. We are given
senses, minds, Fitrah; all the tools to help us believe in the unseen.

You should be helping yourself to believe in Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall) Perfection by looking into
His actions in the universe, into your own selves, and how Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is managing our
affairs, such that if any evil thought passes through a person’s mind related to the unseen, he
should repel it, and glorify Allaah (Azza wa Jall) freeing Him of imperfections and faults. That is
our role in this Dunya.

Whenever you see a dreadful event occur, you should immediately say:

“Subhaan Allaah”, for sure there is good in that matter, and wisdom. Even if it is comprised of
pain, there is good, either in the Dunya or in the Akhirah.

Those who live in safety and wellbeing in this Dunya will wish for their bodies to be cut by
clippers when they see how Allaah (Azza wa Jall) exalts the people who had difficulties in the
Dunya (e.g., Surat Al-Burooj – the people who were burnt, their final abode was in Paradise.
Allaah (Azza wa Jall) made their affliction a means for them to enter Paradise.)

This is our duty/task. Whenever we see any evil or a matter that appears evil, in our hearts
should be a belief that within this matter is a great goodness. We should glorify Allaah (Azza wa
Jall) and free Him of injustice e.g., when you hear about a plane crash, or train accident, etc. It is
to learn that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) Alone is Subbooh and Quddoos free from mistakes,
forgetfulness, defects. It is only He (Azza wa Jall) Who is Perfect, while the other creations are
deficient, no matter what you see of perfection in their creation. Absolute Perfection belongs to
Allaah (Azza wa Jall) Alone.

This is what we should teach our children, especially our youth who are amazed at the humans’
perfection in worldly affairs. They try to imitate the Kuffar in every matter, forgetting that these
Kuffar are deficient humans. Don’t let the creation deceive you by their appearance or by what is
shown of perfection to you. If you look closely, you will see their deficiencies.

This recent pandemic was clear evidence for us and the whole world. Those people who are so
advanced and have made progress in technology, etc. suffered more than the Muslims and other
third-world countries who they consider to be backwards.

No one is perfect except Allaah (Azza wa Jall) and that is His (Azza wa Jall) Right – to be singled
out in Perfection. “Subhaan Allaah” should not just be words we utter with our tongues; rather,
it should penetrate our hearts, our relationships, and our lives.

Allaah (Azza wa Jall) might test a person by making someone enter his life who he feels dazzled
by, and thinks is perfect. Will he really be attached to this person or glorify Allaah (Azza wa Jall)?

When you see any affliction, you should free Allaah (Azza wa Jall) of evil, injustice, negligence,
forgetfulness of every deficient matter. Look at the painful and distressful situation Maryam
(‘Alayhas-salaam) went through, in addition to the spiritual pain. To be pregnant without a
husband is a horrible situation for a chaste woman, but this event was a means of elevation for
her in this world and the Hereafter. She is mentioned with praises by the believers until the Day
of Judgment.
 6

If you are detained somewhere for some time (like people who couldn’t travel during the
pandemic), and reaching your destination was delayed over and over, you should say “Subhaan
Allaah” all the time. We don’t know what evil was there that would have afflicted us if we had
gone earlier; only Allaah (Azza wa Jall) Knows best. Don’t be the person who is always
grumbling and displeased by the situations that you go through. The time you reached your
destination was the best and most suitable time for you and you reached it in the best state. This
belief will overcome the whispers of the Shaytaan and give you peace of mind.

Allaah (Azza wa Jall) made all the decrees:

1. For the people to carry out their tasks.

2. To show the people the truth from falsehood.

When the hypocrites defame the Muslims, Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is disclosing the hidden enemy
and distinguishing the good from the bad. Among us are enemies whom we don’t know; then,
when we go through these calamities, these enemies are shown to us.
َ
ُ َّ ‫َلْن ٱلْ َق ْول ۚ َو‬
ُ‫ٱَّلل َي ْعلَم‬ ْ ُ َّ َ ْ ََ َ ْ ُٰ َ ُ َ ْ َ َََ ْ ُ َ َْٰ ََ َ ُٓ ََ ََْ
ِ ِ ‫ولو نشاء لرينـكهم فلعرفتهم بِسِيمـهم ۚ وَلع ِرفنهم ِِف‬
ْ‫كم‬ُ ََٰ ْ َ
‫أعمـل‬
And if We willed, We could show them to you, and you would know them by their mark; but
you will surely know them by the tone of [their] speech. And Allaah knows your deeds.
[Surat Muhammad (47:30)]

َّ َ َ َ َ
ُ‫ٱَّلل‬ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ َ ٰ َّ َ ْ َ َ ْ ُ َ ٓ َ ٰ َ َ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ َ ُ َّ َ َ َّ
‫ب ۗ وما َكن‬ ِ ِ ‫ما َكن ٱَّلل ِِلذر ٱلمؤ ِمن ِني لَع ما أنتم عليهِ حَّت ي ِمزي ٱْلبِيث مِن ٱلطي‬
ُ ُ َ َّ ُ َ َ ُٓ ََ َ ُ ُّ َ ْ َ َ َّ َّ ٰ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ْ ُ َ ْ ُ
ۚ ‫كن ٱَّلل َيت ِِب مِن رسلِهِۦ من يشاء ۖ فـامِنوا۟ بِٱَّللِ ورسلِهِۦ‬ ِ ‫ب ولـ‬
ِ ‫ِِلطل ِعكم لَع ٱلغي‬
َ ْ َ ْ ُ ََ ُ َ ُْ
‫ِإَون تؤم ُِنوا۟ َوت َّتقوا۟ فلكم أجر ع ِظيم‬
Allaah would not leave the believers in that [state] you are in [presently] until He separates
the evil from the good. Nor would Allaah reveal to you, the unseen. But [instead], Allaah
chooses of His Messengers whom He wills, so believe in Allaah and His Messengers. And if
you believe and fear Him, then for you is a great reward.
[Surat Aal ‘Imran (3:179)]

Our problem is that we don’t explain any event that we pass through with the Tanzeeh of Allaah
(Azza wa Jall). Rather, we explain it only as a current event that has happened, and we live
through it.

Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) predicted that. He (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi

wa sallam) said: “Islam started as something strange, and it will revert to its old position – to
be strange again. The good tidings are for the strangers.”

The strangers are the believers who will hold fast to the Qur’an and Sunnah until the end. These
people, at the end of the world, will be like strangers among the people.

We testify that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is perfect in His Attributes and all that He decrees is good,
and the good will not be shown except when one knows the truth. Our duty is Tasbeeh of Allaah
(Azza wa Jall), to glorify Him (Azza wa Jall) with praises.
 7

Contemplate Surat Al-Ahzaab – Hypocrites vs. believers during a calamity

Short history on Surat Al-Ahzaab: When the confederate troops surrounded Madinah to fight the
Muslims, the believers were tested and shook with a mighty shaking. Allaah (Azza wa Jall)
reminds His believing slaves of His blessings in this battle. The disbelievers of Makkah and Hijaz
came to them from the north and the disbelievers of Najd came from the south, and they were
resolute to eradicate Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) and his Companions
during the Battle of the Trench. The disbelievers were supported by the Jews who lived around
Madinah and came in huge numbers. The calamity intensified, and the siege of Madinah went on
for a long time; so long that they began to have various negative thoughts about Allaah (Azza wa
Jall). In this calamity, it was shown who was the true Musabbih (one who glorifies Allaah often)
and Munazzih (sacred, clean, and honest), the one who freed Allaah (Azza wa Jall) of
deficiencies, and who was not.

ً‫وُل ٓۥ إ ََّل ُغ ُرورا‬

ُ ُ ‫ٱَّلل َو َر ُس‬ َ ‫ون َو َّٱَّل‬
ُ َّ ‫ِين ِف قُلُوبهم َّم َرض َّما َو َع َدنَا‬ َ ُ َٰ ُْ ُ ُ َ ْ
‫ِإَوذ يقول ٱلمنـفِق‬
ِ ِِ ِ
And [remember] when the hypocrites and those in whose hearts is a disease said: "Allaah and
His Messenger did not promise us except delusion."
[Surat Al-Ahzaab (33:12)]
VS

ُ ُ ُ َ َ ُ َّ َ َ َ َ ُ ُ ُ َ َ ُ َّ َ َ َ َ َ َ ٰ َ ُ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ُ ْ ُ ْ َ َ َّ َ َ
ۚ ‫ولما رءا ٱلمؤمِنون ٱلحزاب قالوا۟ هـذا ما وعدنا ٱَّلل ورسوُلۥ وصدق ٱَّلل ورسوُلۥ‬
َ ‫اد ُه ْم إ ََّلٓ إ‬
ً‫يم ٰـ ًنا َوت َ ْسل ِيما‬ َ َ ََ
‫وما ز‬
ِ ِ
And when the believers saw the confederates, they said: "This is what Allaah and His
Messenger had promised us, and Allaah and His Messenger spoke the truth." And it increased
them only in faith and acceptance.
[Surat Al-Ahzaab (33:22)]

People who went through the same calamity; a group thought bad about Allaah (Azza wa Jall),
and another group thought good about Allaah (Azza wa Jall). In every calamity, we have to ask
ourselves about our Tasbeeh and Tanzeeh of Allaah (Azza wa Jall). Prophet Muhammad (Salla-
Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) was tranquil and strong and never wavered. Even in that position, he
(Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) told the believers that the treasures of the King of Persia and
the Romans will be in their hands, Allaah (Azza wa Jall) will make them victorious over them.
Whoever follows the example of Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) will
never be a coward or be afraid. The believers who were with him (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa
sallam) thought good about Allaah (Azza wa Jall). They believed what Allaah (Azza wa Jall) had
promised, that with every difficulty there is ease. Because of that belief, their Imaan and
submissiveness to Allaah (Azza wa Jall) increased.

On the other hand, the hypocrites were shaken in their faith, and they thought bad about Allaah
(Azza wa Jall). You have to be careful of these doubts because it is from the Shaytaan. You
should directly repel the doubts put in your mind because of him. At-Tasbeeh and At-Tanzeeh
should be practiced continuously.

Example:
 8

You pray to Allaah (Azza wa Jall), you ask Him (Azza wa Jall) a means to benefit your children,
the children of the Muslims, or any personal matter that you want, you implore Him (Azza wa
Jall) and make Du’aa to Him (Azza wa Jall), you promise Him (Azza wa Jall) that you will do
your best if He (Azza wa Jall) opens that gate for you, etc. If you don’t get it, and it is not made
easy for you, then what should you do?

When you say “Subhaan Allaah” in this situation, you are freeing Allaah (Azza wa Jall) from not
hearing your Du’aa or/ neglecting your Du’aa, free Him (Azza wa Jall) of not hearing your
Du’aa or being unjust to you; this is how you should think of Allaah (Azza wa Jall). The Shaytaan
will say to you that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is not granting you your Du’aa, not answering you, so
you have to say “Subhaan Allaah” and know that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is free of miserliness and
His treasure is full; He (Azza wa Jall) is Able to do everything and there is a wisdom. One by one,
in detail, free Allaah (Azza wa Jall) from deficiencies. Don’t doubt in Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall)
Perfection, He (Azza wa Jall) hears the secrets and even that which is more hidden. He (Azza wa
Jall) is ashamed to return the hands of His slaves empty when the slave asks for something.

Note: In Surat Ghaafir (40:60), Allaah (Azza wa Jall) says:

ُ َ ۡ َ َۡ ٓ ُ ۡ
ۡ‫كم‬
ۚ ‫جب ل‬ ِ ‫ون أست‬
ِ ‫ٱ دع‬
“Call unto Me and I will respond to you.”

Many of us don’t understand the meaning of ‫( استجابة‬response).

Shaikh Saleh ibn ‘Abdul Aziz said about the Hadeeth reported by Al-Bukhaari and Ahmad in Al-
Adab Al-Mufrad no. 710, where Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “No
Muslim makes supplication unless he is someone who has cut off his relations, but that he is
given one of three things; his supplication is answered immediately, or it is stored for him in
the next world, or an evil equal to it is averted from him.” These three things are the answer of
Allaah (Azza wa Jall) to the Du’aa and it is what is meant by ‫( استجابة‬response).

This is also mentioned in the Hadeeth of the Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) when he
talks about Allaah coming down to the lowest heaven in the last third of the night and He
(Ta’ala) says: “Whoever asks Me, I will answer him (exactly like the verse in Surat Ghaafir) and
whoever asks Me a particular thing (more specific than general Du’aa) then I will grant him,
and whoever asks My forgiveness, I will forgive him.”

When we talk about the Tasbeeh (glorification) of Allaah (Ta’ala) we have to:

i. Free Allaah of any deficiency.

ii. Direct every perfect Attribute to Allaah and negate deficiency from Him.

iii. Free Allaah from resemblance to anyone or anything.

Second Kind of Tanzeeh Allaah – Free Allaah’s Perfect Attributes from Deficiency
To Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) belongs perfect:
 9

• Knowledge
Those who seek to know the future through horoscopes, palm reading, or tea leaves, etc. have
not glorified Allaah (Ta’ala) because they have attributed the knowledge of the unseen, which is
specific only to Allaah, to other than Him.

• Ability
I free Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) from incapacity, failure, tiredness, inability to give me what I want,
etc.

• Power
We have to free Allaah (Ta’ala) from all the opposite characteristics to His Names and Attributes
such as sleep, death, fatigue, etc. Many people can say they believe, but if they attribute the
ability of the Shifa (healing) to a doctor, then they haven’t glorified Allaah (Azza wa Jall). No one
has the ability to heal or cure except Allaah.

Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) is Attributed with perfect Justice, freeing Him from injustice or the need of
anyone in any aspect. He (Ta’ala) is Rich and free of all wants. Allaah is Attributed with perfect
Wisdom and perfect Mercy, so we have to free Allaah from doing anything in vain or for jest or
play, or legislating a matter that contradicts His Wisdom, etc. In this way you will be glorifying
Allaah (Azza wa Jall).

Allaah (Ta’ala) is testing our Tasbeeh in every situation. For example, one night you’re lying in
bed, and you feel a sudden pain. The first belief you should be feeling is that your Lord is Ever
Living, He never dies, He never sleeps, and He is with you. This thing happened for you to free
Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) from sleep and slumber, from death or unawareness. Every one of us is
tested in his Tasbeeh through situations, calamities and crises.
How to free Allaah’s (Jalla Jalaluhu) decisions from deficiency
We believe Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) is the true Hakam– Judge – and the true Decision Maker.
Whatever He legislates or ordains is perfect. We refer to His Law in all our disputes and affairs
and no one else. Allaah (Ta’ala) denies those who take other than Him as a judge.

َ ‫ب ُم َف َّص ًال ۚ َو َّٱَّل‬

ُ‫ِين َءاتَيْ َن ٰـ ُهم‬ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ ٓ َّ َ ُ َ ً َ َ َ ْ َ َّ َ ْ َ َ َ
َ ‫ك ُم ٱلْك َِت ٰـ‬ ‫أفغْي ٱَّللِ أبت ِِغ حكما وهو ٱَّلِى أنزل إِِل‬
َ ُ َ َ َ َ ْ َ َّ
َ‫ون َّن م َِن ٱل ْ ُم ْم ََتين‬ َّ َ ُ ُ َّ َ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ ٰ َ ْ
ِ ‫ٱلكِتـب يعلمون أنهۥ مَنل مِن ربِك بِٱَل ِق ۖ فال تك‬
[Say]: "Then is it other than Allaah I should seek as judge while it is He Who has revealed to
you the Book [i.e., the Qur’an] explained in detail?" And those to whom We [previously] gave
the Scripture know that it is sent down from your Lord in truth, so never be among the doubters.
[Surat Al-An’aam (6:114)]
How does Allaah (Ta’ala) address regarding the theories and philosophies that people come up
with nowadays?
َّ ْ ُ ْ َّ َّ َّ َ ُ َّ َ َّ َ َ َ ُّ ُ ْ َ ْ َ َ َْ َ ْ ُ
‫يل ٱَّللِ ۚ إِن يتبِعون إَِل ٱلظن ِإَون هم إَِل‬
ِ ِ ‫ضلوك عن سب‬ ِ ‫ِإَون ت ِطع أكَث من ِِف ٱلر ِض ي‬
َ َْ
‫َي ُر ُصون‬
 10

And if you obey most of those upon the earth, they will mislead you from the Way of Allaah.
They follow not except assumption, and they are not but misjudging.
[Surat Al-An’aam (6:116)]

All the ideologies other than what Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) has given us are considered
assumptions and guesses and all kinds of lies. The people are following guesses and lies.
Whatever Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) tells us in the Qur’an is the truth, but most of the people follow
assumptions, lies and delusions.

Don’t be deceived when they say things like “scientific fact, scientific theory, proven,” etc. They
are trying to compel the Muslims to accept these theories (facts), like the water cycle of how rain
falls, Darwin’s theory of evolution, etc.

E.g., Allaah (Azza wa Jall) said not to kill a soul, however the disbelievers have a ‘merciful
death,’ and they allow abortion. Abortion is killing of a soul. They are permitting Zina (sexual
relations outside of marriage), and accordingly, allowing abortion. They want to make Zina easy
and more widespread among the communities. Islam prohibits free mixing between men and
women. Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) ordained this to prevent Fitnah. They say girls and boys should be
mixed, otherwise they will be repressed. They call manmade law ‘moderate’ and Islamic law
‘extreme.’

We have to free Allaah (Ta’ala) from legislating a law that causes us distress, constriction, etc.
This is not the action of Allaah (Azza wa Jall). He loves His creation and loves good for them.

َ َٰ َ ْ َ َ ْ َّ َ َ َ َ ُ ٓ َ َ ٓ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ٓ َ ُ َّ َ ٓ َ ْ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ َّ ُ ُ َ َ
‫سيقول ٱَّلِين أْشكوا۟ لو شاء ٱَّلل ما أْشكنا وَل ءاباؤنا وَل حرمنا مِن َش ٍء ۚ كذل ِك‬
ََٓ ُ ُ ْ َُ ْ ْ ُ َ َْ ُْ َ ََْ ُ َ ٰ َّ َ ْ ْ َ َ َّ َ َّ َ
‫كذب ٱَّلِين مِن قبل ِ ِهم حَّت ذاقوا۟ بأسنا ۗ قل هل عِندكم مِن عِل ٍم فتخ ِرجوه َلا ۖ إِن‬
َ ُ ُ ْ َ َّ ْ ُ َ ْ َّ َّ َّ َ ُ َّ َ
‫تتبِعون إَِل ٱلظن ِإَون أنتم إَِل َترصون‬
Those who associated [others] with Allaah will say: "If Allaah had willed, we would not have
associated [anything] and neither would our fathers, nor would we have prohibited anything."
Likewise, did those before deny, until they tasted Our punishment. Say: "Do you have any
knowledge that you can produce for us? You follow not except assumption, and you are not
but misjudging." [Surah Al An’aam (6:148)]

In this verse, Allaah (Ta’ala) is saying that the polytheists justify their Shirk and prohibit what
Allaah permitted, with an excuse that He (Jalla Jalaluhu) willed and decreed that for them. They
take the will of Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) as an excuse. They don’t have knowledge; they are just
using this excuse to ward off blame from themselves.
َ َ َ ُ ٓ َ َ ٓ َ َ ُ ْ َّ ْ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ َ ُ َّ َ ٓ َ ْ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ َّ َ َ َ
‫وقال ٱَّلِين أْشكوا۟ لو شاء ٱَّلل ما عبدنا مِن دونِهِۦ مِن َش ٍء َنن وَل ءاباؤنا وَل‬
ُ ٰ َ َ ْ َّ ُ ُّ َ َ ْ َ َ ْ ْ َ َّ َ َ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ُ
‫َح َّر ْم َنا مِن دونِهِۦ ِمن َش ٍء ۚ كذٰل ِك فعل ٱَّلِين مِن قبل ِ ِهم ۚ فهل لَع ٱلرس ِل إَِل ٱْللـغ‬
َ
ُ‫ٱل ْ ُمبني‬
ِ
 11

And those who associate others with Allaah say: "If Allaah had willed, we would not have
worshipped anything other than Him, neither we nor our fathers. Nor would we have
forbidden anything through other than Him." Thus did those do before them. So, is there
upon the Messengers except [the duty of] clear notification? [Surat An-Nahl (16:35)]

Some people ask why Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) doesn’t help those who are homosexual and excuse
them because Allaah willed it for them. They are taking it as an excuse. Prophet Lut’s people
persisted in this behavior until Allaah punished them. If it had been a valid excuse, Allaah (Jalla
Jalaluhu) would have averted punishment from them, because He (Azza wa Jall) only sends
punishments on those who deserve it.
Why are their excuses invalid?
1. Allaah (Ta’ala) stated that if this argument had been valid, then punishment would not
have befallen them. Otherwise, it would be like we are attributing injustice to Allaah, but
He (Jalla Jalaluhu) is the Most Just.

2. An argument should be based on knowledge and proof. What is the source of knowledge
that Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) permitted or forbade that for you? If it is merely based on
guesses and delusions, then it is not acceptable.

3. Allaah Alone has the ultimate proof which leaves no excuses for anyone, i.e., the Qur’an
(and other divine scriptures), Prophets, sound mind, scholars, Fitrah, etc.

4. Allaah (Ta’ala) has given each person the ability and power with which he is able to do
what he is obliged to do. He (Azza wa Jall) does not enjoin upon anyone what he is unable
to do, or to burden more than he can bear. All His Laws are within one’s ability and
choice.

5. Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) doesn’t compel anyone to do anything. He has given everyone the
choice, and upon their choice, He (Jalla Jalaluh) has taken them into account. There is no
compulsion in the religion.

Shaikh As-Sa’dee (Rahimahullaah) said that those who use the concept of divine will and decree
as a justification for their sins are contradicting themselves because they cannot be consistent in
the argument. If someone mistreated them, beat them, harmed them, stole from them, etc., they
will not say this is the will of Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) and just wait. These sinners have bad
thoughts about Allaah which contradicts their glorification of Him.

Allaah (Ta’ala) has two kinds of will/ decision:

i. Universal decisions

ii. Legal decisions

Because the people don’t know how to differentiate between the two types of decisions, they use
the will of Allaah (Ta’ala) to justify their sins. The duty of people is to free Allaah (Ta’ala) of
deficiency. One of the problems man faces in this world is understanding the decree of Allaah
(Ta’ala) and the relation between His decree and the committing of sins.

They hear Allaah say: “If Allaah had willed, they would not commit Shirk (Surat Al-An’aam)”
and “If We (Allaah) have willed, surely We would have given every person his guidance (Surat
As-Sajdah).” Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) is saying that He is the One Who guides whomever He wills
through His will. How can we join these verses with the verses we have discussed in Surat Al-
An’aam?
 12

1. There are no contradictions in the Qur’an.

2. There are two wills of Allaah:

• Al-Iraadah al-Kawniyyah – universal will (it happens by Allaah’s will

inevitably, though it is not a must that Allaah (Ta’ala) loves and is pleased
with, e.g., hurricanes, covid, sins, etc.)

• Iraadah Shar'iyyah – legal will: [Allaah (Azza wa Jall) loves it and legislated
it, but it is not a must that it will happen i.e., dutifulness to parents,
guidance to Islam, etc.]. We should free Allaah (Ta’ala) from willing evil for
His servants or compelling them to be Kuffar.

These evil thoughts come from the Shaytaan. He may adorn the evil to spoil peoples’ religion and
their belief in Allaah (Azza wa Jall). We have to free Allaah from evil all the time. These people
had a choice, and they chose evil for themselves. Free Allaah’s (Ta’ala) actions from comprising
evil; all His actions are good. The evil is in the creation.

Example of LGBTQA+
They are giving excuses for sex and gender change (transgender). They say they are excused
because of their genes. They say they are not bad people; you can’t hate a person, they have
problems in their hormones, their feelings, etc.

How to refute what they say?

Allaah (Ta’ala) created them as normal people. They are the ones who have chosen this Haram
(unlawful forbidden) way. Allaah created the man to have desire for the woman and vice versa.
But these people have deviated in their feelings because of the effect of the Shaytaan and the
trends around the world (especially in Western countries). They are suggesting that you can
choose what gender you want to be.

Why did Allaah (Jalla Jalaluhu) send a punishment on the people of Lut (‘Alayhis-salaam) more
than the other nations? Because they had done something by their choice, and we will not accept
any excuse for any LGBT. So those who think that it is not their choice and are feeling sorry for
them, it is a lie. How can you think badly of Allaah (Ta’ala) that He would forbid sodomy and
they should be killed and then torment the people of Lut (‘Alayhis-salaam) when they couldn’t
help themselves? Allaah honored the sons of Adam, and this honor entails a task. You need to
know this task and teach it to your children.

Every time Shaytaan casts evil thoughts about Allaah (Ta’ala), we should immediately say:
“Subhaan Allaah.” He (Azza wa Jall) is far above this, and whatever He ordains for us is good
and perfect, and whatever he forbids us from, we believe there is an evil in it, otherwise He
would not forbid us from it.

In Surat Al-An’aam, people were committing Shirk, and they thought that since Allaah (Jalla
Jalaluhu) enabled them to commit Shirk, then He (Jalla Jalaluhu) is pleased with their Kufr, Shirk
and mischief. It is very important to have knowledge about Allaah’s Names because knowledge
of His Names leads to the glorification of Him, freeing Him from bad thoughts. The ones who
always have bad thoughts about Allaah (Azza wa Jall) are the hypocrites; they think that Allaah
is not near them, and they conspire against Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa
sallam) and his Companions, thinking that Allaah doesn’t know what is in their hearts.
 13

We have to free the perfect Attributes of Allaah (Ta’ala) from deficiencies.

Example: If you teach your children that Allaah (Ta’ala) is Al-Ghaniyy– Rich and free of all
wants, and they ask Him (Ta’ala) if they need anything, because he is All-Hearing, Near,
Responsive, All-Knowing, and so forth, then knowledge is settled in their hearts, and they learn
to pray to Allaah (Ta’ala), expecting only from Him (Ta’ala).

In case one’s request is delayed, or he gets something other than what he wants even though he
is sure of Allaah’s Perfection, he starts to feel that the perfection is deficient because he is making
Du’aa and the response is delayed; the more good he does, the more calamities befall him, as if
Allaah (Ta’ala) doesn’t hear him. So, he asks his mother to make Du’aa for him saying Allaah
(Ta’ala) hears and answers her. He starts to have doubts in Allaah’s (Ta’ala) perfection.

We have to fill the hearts of our children with good thoughts of Allaah (Ta’ala) and knowledge
about Him. Some youth apostatize because of bad thoughts of Allaah because they didn’t glorify
Allaah (Ta’ala) and free His perfect Attributes from deficiencies.

Never think bad about Allaah (Ta’ala). We have to be certain of every perfect Attribute of Allaah
(Ta’ala) and free Him of deficiencies in that attribute.

Tanzeeh Allaah (Ta’ala) is of three kinds:

i. Glorifying Allaah (Ta’ala), freeing Him of deficiencies, generally.

ii. Freeing Allaah’s (Ta’ala) perfect Attributes from deficiencies.

iii. Freeing Allaah (Ta’ala) from resemblance to any of His creation or of having a peer in
any aspect.
Freeing Allaah (Ta’ala) from any resemblance to His creation or having a peer in any aspect
Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) was a perfect human being, but his
perfection is not like, nor does it reach the perfection of Allaah (Ta’ala).

Example: In the story of Musa [Moses (‘Alayhis salaam)] with Al-Khidhr, when the sparrow
dipped its beak in the sea and Al-Khidhr said to Musa (‘Alayhis salaam): “My knowledge and
your knowledge compared to Allaah’s (Ta’ala) Knowledge is like what this sparrow has taken
out of the sea.” That drop of water on the beak of the sparrow is the knowledge of everyone
combined, compared to the Knowledge of Allaah (Ta’ala) which is the ocean. Any human
attribute, when compared to Allaah’s (Ta’ala) Attribute, becomes nothing.

One of the major sins is al-Mann which is – to remind others of your favors. It abolishes the
reward of the good deed, making it nothing. It is such a great sin because it means the person
thinks he is the owner of the graciousness and whatever favor he did, when it is actually Allaah
Who had taught and inspired him and granted him the ability to do it. He (Ta’ala) perfected that
characteristic in him. When you see any civilization in the world, you should know in your heart
that Allaah (Ta’ala) is the One Who had given them the ability.

Humans dislike to be asked persistently, but Allaah (Ta’ala) loves that we persistently ask Him.
Allaah’s Speech, Sight, Knowledge, etc. are not like the speech, sight, knowledge, etc. of the
creation. A person might forgive you but not like you, but Allaah (Ta’ala) forgives and loves the
repentant ones. When you compare the deficient attributes of humans with the perfect Attributes
of Allaah (Ta’ala), your heart becomes attached to Him (Ta’ala) and you will not think bad about
Him.
 14

Example: You are preparing for your daughter’s wedding, constantly invoking Allaah (Ta’ala)
and after some time you feel shy that you are asking too much from Him (Ta’ala). But this is
wrong. Whoever thinks like this has resembled Allaah (Ta’ala) to His creation; this feeling
indicates that you don’t give Allaah (Ta’ala) His due estimate.

Differentiate between your dealings with the people and your dealings with Allaah (Ta’ala) Who
is Perfect. Free Him (Ta’ala) from resemblance to His creation. These differences should be taught
to the youth.

Many of our youth become atheist because they invoke Allaah (Ta’ala) for something they want,
and out of His Mercy and Wisdom, Allaah (Ta’ala) doesn’t respond to them. So, they stop
praying to Him or believing in Him anymore. They show stubbornness towards Allaah (Ta’ala),
thinking He is similar to humans, who will be affected if they are abandoned. This is all due to
the youths’ ignorance about Allaah (Ta’ala). They forget that Allaah (Ta’ala) is in no need of our
faith or good deeds. Allaah (Ta’ala) is Able to exchange us if He (Ta’ala) wishes.

It is important to educate ourselves first and then to educate our children about Allaah’s (Ta’ala)
Perfection.

Example: The kids are playing a competitive game and after the first round you find your child
making Du’aa to win the second round. What is the teaching opportunity here? He is
worshipping Allaah (Ta’ala) for a worldly thing. It means that if he doesn’t win, he will give up
praying in the future. He might have doubts about Allaah’s (Ta’ala) promises. Teach him that
Allaah’s (Ta’ala) promises are truth, and when we make Du’aa, even if we don’t get what we
want, there is still a reward, and Allaah (Ta’ala) will be pleased with us and making Du’aa is not
only for worldly gain. If He (Ta’ala) doesn’t give you what you want, there is good in it. We have
to explain Tanzeeh Allaah to them.

Our most important duties are that we and our children free Allaah (Ta’ala) from bad thoughts
and delusions of the Shaytaan in situations that we go through in our lives. We have three duties:

1. Affirm to Allaah (Ta’ala) what He has affirmed to His Noble Self of perfection of His
Attributes.

2. Free Allaah (Ta’ala) from every defect, flaw, and deficiency, and from resemblance to His
creation.

3. Stay away from bad thoughts about Allaah (Ta’ala). Always think good of Allaah (Ta’ala),
of His management, actions, giving favors, etc.

On occasion, when a young child gets hurt by something (i.e., a door, a chair, etc.) some parents
have been seen hitting and scolding the item to pacify the child. This is a kind of Shirk; it is as if
this door or chair has the ability to do harm or good to the people. Explain to the child that a
prick of a thorn or hurt removes sins, elevates in ranks with Allaah (Ta’ala), that He (Ta’ala) is
testing our patience, etc.

This is how we glorify Allaah (Ta’ala) by thinking good about Him and not resembling Him to
the creation.

No matter how constricted a situation is, you know that after it will come vastness and
broadness, and after the difficulty there will be a perfect situation. Therefore, At-Tasbeeh, and At-
Tahmeed come together because the angels said ‫نسبح بحمدك‬, (we glorify Your praises) which
brings us to the second task.
 15

‫ – نسبح بحمدك‬the letter “Baa” indicates accompaniment. It means when I glorify Allaah (Ta’ala)
and free Him from deficiencies, I should accompany my glorification with praises. Therefore, we
say ‫ – نسبح بحمدك‬glorify Allaah (Ta’ala) with praises. Al-Hamd is to attribute the praised one with
perfection, out of love and magnification. And this doesn’t suit anyone except Allaah (Ta’ala).

Example from the Qur’an:

ُ‫ٱَل َّق ۚ إ َّن َما ٱل ْ َمسِيح‬

َ ْ َّ َّ َ َ ُ َُ ََ ْ ُ ُ ْ َ َ ٰ َ ْ َ ْ َ ٰٓ َ
ِ ‫ب َل تغلوا۟ ِِف دِين ِكم وَل تقولوا۟ لَع ٱَّللِ إَِل‬ ِ ‫يـأهل ٱلكِتـ‬
َّ ُ َ َ ُْ ُ َ َ َ ْ َ ٰ َ ٓ َ ٰ َ ْ َ ٓ ُ ُ َ َ َ َّ ُ ُ َ َ َ ْ َ ُ ْ َ
ِ‫عِيَس ٱبن مريم رسول ٱَّللِ وَك ِمتهۥ ألقىها إَِل مريم وروح مِنه ۖ فـامِنوا۟ بِٱَّلل‬
َ َُٓ َ ْ ُ َ ُ َّ َ َّ ْ ُ َّ ً ْ َ َ ۚ ‫َو ُر ُسلِهِۦ ۖ َو ََل َت ُقولُوا۟ ثَلَ ٰـ َثة‬
‫ٱَّلل إِل ٰـه َوٰحِد ۖ سبح ٰـنهۥ أن‬ ‫ٱنت ُهوا۟ خْيا لكم ۚ إِنما‬
ً َ َّ َٰ َ َ ْ َْ َ َ َ َ َّ َ ُ َّ َ َ ُ َ َ ُ َ
‫ت وما ِِف ٱلر ِض ۗ وكَف بِٱَّللِ وك ِيال‬ ٰ ٰ
ِ ‫يكون ُلۥ ول ۘ ُلۥ ما ِِف ٱلسمـو‬

“O People of the Scripture, do not commit excess in your religion or say about Allaah, except
the truth. The Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, was but a messenger of Allaah and His Word
which He directed to Mary and a soul [created at a command] from Him. So believe in Allaah
and His messengers. And do not say, "Three"; desist - it is better for you. Indeed, Allaah is but
One God. Exalted is He above having a son. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and
whatever is on the earth. And Sufficient is Allaah as Disposer of affairs.”
[Surat An-Nisaa’ (4:171)]

The Christians claim that Jesus is the son of God, that Allaah (Ta’ala) has a son. How did Allaah
(Ta’ala) refute this claim in this verse? Allaah (Ta’ala) is Self-Sufficient and doesn’t need anyone
because of His Richness. He (Ta’ala) is not in need of anything or anyone, not a partner, nor a
son. He (Ta’ala) is free of wants, and everyone is in need of Him. He (Ta’ala) is praised for His
Richness. Humans need children for support, help, joy, companionship, etc.

This way makes us wonder. How can Allaah (Ta’ala) have a son, how can you think of Him
(Ta’ala) like that? If you believe that Allaah (Ta’ala) is Al-Wakeel, managing our affairs – it
negates the claim that Allaah (Ta’ala) has a son. How? Because Al-Wakeel is the One all the
creation entrusts their affairs to. Like when you entrust your lawyer with your case to defend
you in court.

Also, when Christians claim that Jesus died for their sins, they are accusing Allaah (Ta’ala) of
being unjust or incapable of forgiving sins without sending someone to die for us. They are really
not glorifying Allaah (Ta’ala), and He is far above what they claim.

Our knowledge about Allaah’s (Ta’ala) Perfection leads us to free Him from all deficiencies, and
to attribute Him with Perfection. He (Ta’ala) doesn’t resemble any of His creation.
A true story of a Christian girl who embraced Islam:
She was in Egypt when she discovered that her Bible is not the word of God, and Allaah (Ta’ala)
is free of speaking obscene words (found in a certain chapter in the Bible), it doesn’t even suit
humans to say it, much less Allaah (Ta’ala).
 16

Someone asked her how this chapter could have been written by Allaah (Ta’ala), and she was
confused about it too. One day she prayed sincerely to Allaah (Ta’ala) before Fajr by minutes. She
said: O Allaah, did You really say these words? When she said these words, she heard the
Adhaan saying ‫ هللا أكن‬Allaahu Akbar – Allaah (Ta’ala) is the Greatest. He is Greater than uttering
this obscene speech. We have to attribute Allaah (Ta’ala) with perfect Speech, and free Him of
these obscene words. And this made her embrace Islam.

The believer who believes in Allaah’s (Ta’ala) Greatness feels it is a must to glorify Allaah
(Ta’ala) and attribute Him with perfect Attributes and negate imperfections from Him (Ta’ala) by
saying Al-Hamdulillaah. This is ingrained in our Fitrah, that our God is Perfect, free of
imperfections.
Schools are encouraging LGBT
People want to be more lenient and flexible in accepting these ideologies.

Homosexuality is a great and grievous sin in Islam and is one of the destructive matters in
communities. It is a cause of the descent of Allaah’s (Ta’ala) torment on a community, especially
if it is spread.

Accepting or admitting the rights of homosexuals means that you think that it’s permissible and
not forbidden. That it is Kufr in Allaah (Ta’ala).

Why?

Because people are making something lawful which Allaah (Ta’ala) has forbidden and is a crime.
They are attributing Allaah (Ta’ala) with being unjust and unwise and attributing Him with
deficient attributes. This is a clear Kufr.

We have to understand that we cannot use it as an excuse to lessen Islamophobia.

Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) loves al-Musabbiheen (those who glorify Him)

َ َ َ َ َ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ ُ َ ْ َ ََُْ َ ْ َ
‫ان‬
ِ ‫ِب صىل اَّلل عليه وسلم قال " َك ِمت‬
ِ ِ ‫ ع ِن اَل‬،‫ عن أ ِِب هريرة‬،‫عن أ ِِب زرعة‬
َّ َ َ ْ ُ َ ْ َّ َ َ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َ َ ََ ََ َ
ِ‫ سبحان اَّلل‬،‫ان إَِل الرْح ِن‬
ِ ‫ حبِيبت‬،‫ان‬
ِ ‫ان ِِف ال ِمزي‬
ِ ‫ ثقِيلت‬،‫ان‬ ِ ‫ان لَع الل ِس‬
ِ ‫خفِيفت‬
ْ َ َ َّ َ َ ْ ُ َ ْ
." ِ ‫ سبحان اَّللِ وبِحم ِده‬،‫الع ِظي ِم‬

Abu Hurairah (Radia-Allaahu ‘anhu) narrated that the Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam)
said: "There are two expressions which are very easy for the tongue to say, but they are very
heavy in the balance and are very dear to the Beneficent (Allaah), and they are, 'Subhaan
Allaah Al-`Adheem and 'Subhaan Allaah wa bihamdihi.'"

[Saheeh Al-Bukhaari no. 6406]

When one says these words, he deems Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) above all those unsuitable
things ascribed to Him, frees Him from resembling anything, and glorifies His praises.
 17

In order to be from those who glorify Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) we need to fulfil these
three ranks of Tasbeeh:

i. Free Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) generally from deficiencies.

ii. To be certain of His (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) Perfect Attributes and free them from
deficiencies.

iii. Free Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) from resemblance to His creation.

Example: Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) affirmed the Attribute of the Hand to His Noble Self. It
is an Essential Attribute of His that He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) informed us about. Similar is the
Attribute of the Speech of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala).

Whatever He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) affirmed to Himself in the Qur’an and authentic Sunnah,
we should also affirm it. Despite that, there are some people who deviated (apostatized)
regarding this belief, and some who are misguided. When they wanted to glorify Allaah
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) and free Him from resemblance to His creation, they came to all the
common descriptions between us and Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) (i.e., hands, speech, eyes,
hearings, feet, face, shin, etc.) and negated them from Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala).

َ ‫ت أَ ْم ُك‬
َ‫نت م َِن ٱلْ َعال ِني‬ َ ‫َب‬
َْ‫ك‬ْ َ ْ َ َّ َ َ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ َ َ َ ُ ْ ٰٓ َ َ َ
‫قال يـإِبل ِيس ما منعك أن تسجد ل ِما خلقت بِيدى ۖ أست‬
[Allaah] said: "O Iblees, what prevented you from prostrating to that which I created with My
hands? Were you arrogant [then], or were you [already] among the haughty?"
[Surat As-Saad (38:75)]

ٰ َ َ ٰ َ َ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ ُ َ ٓ َ َ َ َ ُ ُّ َ ُ َ َّ َ َ َ ٰ َ ٰ َ ُ َ ٓ َ َّ َ َ
‫ك ِن‬
ِ ‫ب أرِ ِن أنظر إِِلك ۚ قال لن ترى ِِن ولـ‬ ِ ‫ولما جاء موَس ل ِ ِميقـتِنا وَكمهۥ ربهۥ قال ر‬
َ ًَ َ َ ْ‫ىل َر ُّب ُهۥ ل ِل‬ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ ُ
‫ج َب ِل َج َعل ُهۥ دَك َوخ َّر‬ ٰ َّ َ‫ٱس َت َق َّر َمَكنَ ُهۥ فَ َس ْوف تَ َرى ٰ ِِن ۚ فَل َّما َت‬
ْ ‫ٱْل َبل فَإن‬
ِِ ِ َ ‫ٱنظر إَِل‬
َ‫ك َو َأنَا ۠ أَ َّو ُل ٱل ْ ُم ْؤ ِمن ِني‬
َ ْ َ ُ ْ ُ َ َ ٰ َ ْ ُ َ َ َ َ َ ٓ َّ َ َ ً َ ٰ َ ُ
‫موَس صعِقا ۚ فلما أفاق قال سبحـنك تبت إِِل‬
And when Musa [Moses (‘Alayhis-salaam)] arrived at the appointed time and his Lord spoke to
him, he said: "My Lord, show me [Yourself] that I may look at You." [Allaah] said: "You will not
see Me, but look at the mountain; if it should remain in place, then you will see Me." But when
his Lord appeared to the mountain, He rendered it level, and Moses fell unconscious. And when
he awoke, he said: "Exalted are You! I have repented to You, and I am the first [among my
people] of the believers."
[Surat Al-A’raaf (7:143)]

َ‫ك َو ُكن مِن‬

َ َُْ َ ٓ َ ْ ُ َ َٰ َ َ َٰ ٰ َ َّ ََ َ ُْ َ َ ْ َ ُ ٰ َ َ َ
ِ ٰٓ
‫قال يـموَس إ ِ ِّن ٱصطفيتك لَع ٱَلاس ب ِ ِرسـلـ َِّت وبِكلـ ِم فخذ ما ءاتيت‬
َ ‫ٱلش ٰـكِر‬َّ
‫ين‬ ِ
[Allaah] said: "O Moses, I have chosen you over the people with My messages and My Words [to
you]. So take what I have given you and be among the grateful." [Surat Al-A’raaf (7:144)]
 18

It is very clear that Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) Speaks. These deviated people hear/ read the
verse and say, “If we affirm the Hand to Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) then we have resembled
Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) to His creation, so we will deny it.” They misinterpret it. This is
not Tanzeeh, rather it is called Ta’teel- they are denying the Attribute of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa
Ta’ala). They were misled regarding this matter i.e., there is a big difference between the hands of
the human and the hands of the animals. Each hand suits its being.

The Ahlus-Sunnah affirm the Attributes of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala), not from their own
selves but from the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). This
is our Aqeedah; we affirm to Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) what He has Attributed to His Own
Self. Whenever we receive any news about Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) from the Qur’an or an
authentic narration, we have to believe, even if our minds can’t perceive the description of the
Attribute or how it works. But we believe Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is Attributed with it
without denial, misinterpretation, or description.

َّ ‫ك َو ُكن م َِن‬
َ‫ٱلس ٰـجدِين‬ َ َ َْ ْ َ َ
ِ ِ ‫فسبِح ِِبم ِد رب‬
So exalt [Allaah] with praise of your Lord and be of those who prostrate [to Him].
[Surat Al-Hijr (15:98)]

Ibn Rajab (Rahimahullaah) said regarding this Ayah, you glorify Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala)
with what He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) praised His Noble Self with, meaning, not every Tasbeeh
is praiseworthy.

The Tasbeeh of Al-Mu’tazilah (one of the deviated sects), entails denial of many of Allaah’s
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) Attributes. Can we consider them Musabbiheen? No. Anyone who
denies, misinterprets, or resembles the Attributes of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is not
glorifying Him (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). Any glorification by denying Allaah’s (Subhaanahu wa
Ta’ala) Attributes and not affirming them, contradicts Tasbeeh, and he is defamed, and will not
be from among the Musabbiheen.

َ ُ َ َّ َ َّ ْ َ َ َ َ ٰ َ ْ ُ
‫صفون‬ِ ‫ب ٱلعِزة ِ عما ي‬
ِ ‫سبحـن ربِك ر‬
Exalted is your Lord, the Lord of might, above what they describe.

ََ َٰ َ َ
َ‫لَع ٱل ْ ُم ْر َسل ِني‬ ‫وسلـم‬
And peace upon the messengers.

ْ َ
َ‫ٱَل ْم ُد ِ ََّّللِ َرب ٱلْ َع ٰـلَمني‬
َ
ِ ِ ‫و‬
And praise to Allaah, Lord of the worlds.
[Surat As-Saaffaat (37:180-182)]
 19

In Surat As-Saaffaat, Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) talks about the vile things that these
disbelievers said about Him (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) and attributed Him with (i.e., kinship
between Allaah and the Jinn, the angels are the daughters of Allaah, etc.). So at the end of the
Surah (shown above), Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is saying He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is far
above what they say about Him.

Why does he particularly mention the Messengers (verse 181)? It is because from one aspect they
are free of sins and flaws, and they are also the ones who Attributed all the perfect Attributes to
Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) and freed Him from the vile and evil attributes.

‫ ال‬in Al-Hamd (verse 182) makes it a definite noun, and it means all kinds of praise is due to Him
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) due to His great and perfect Attributes.

People are divided into two categories:

i. The people who attribute Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) with deficiencies

• Those who attribute Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) with offspring [i.e., Jesus is
the son of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala), the angels are the daughters of
Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala)]

• Jews attributed Him (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) with taking rest after creating the
heavens and the earth on Saturday.

• They also said that Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is poor, and they are rich.

ii. The people who deny the Attributes of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala)

• They deny Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) has a Hand, or Eyes or Speaks, etc.

Both categories are blameworthy because the first category of people attribute Allaah
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) with things He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) didn’t attribute Himself with,
and the second deny the attributes that he did affirm for Himself.

The way of uprightness is the way of Ahlus-Sunnah wal Jama’ah to affirm what Allaah
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) attributed Himself with and negate what He negated from Himself.

Glorifying, sanctifying and magnifying Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) should be in accordance

with the Qur’an and Sunnah and the understanding of the righteous predecessors. It is not
permissible for the Tasbeeh to be based on whims, or intellectual measurement, or collective
thoughts. This is the case of the people of Bid’ah, who deny the Attributes of Allaah (Subhaanahu
wa Ta’ala), thinking that they have glorified Him (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). Whoever follows his
desire without guidance from Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) will fall into many kinds of
falsehood and misguidances. And whoever Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) granted wellbeing
and Aafiyah in this matter, then he has been guided to the straight path.

How did Ibraheem [Abraham (‘Alayhis-salaam)] debate with his people in Surat Al-An’aam,
when they were worshipping the stars, planets, moon, and the idols made in representation of
the stars?
The theme of the debate is that the absolute perfection negates the deficiencies and imperfection.

َ ُ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ٰ َ ٰ َ َّ َ ُ َ َ َ ٰ َ ْ ٓ ُ َ ٰ َ َ َ
َ‫ون م َِن ٱل ْ ُموقِن ِني‬‫ت وٱلر ِض و ِِلك‬
ِ ‫وكذل ِك ن ِرى إِبرهِيم ملكوت ٱلسمـو‬
 20

And thus, did We show Ibraheem [Abraham (‘Alayhis-salaam)] the realm of the heavens and
the earth that he would be among the certain [in faith].

ُّ ‫فَلَ َّما َج َّن َعلَيْهِ َّٱِلْ ُل َر َءا َك ْو َك ًبا ۖ قَ َال َه ٰـ َذا َرّب ۖ فَلَ َّما ٓ أَفَ َل قَ َال ََلٓ أُح‬
َ‫ِب ٱلْ َـافِل ِني‬
ِ
So when the night covered him [with darkness], he saw a star. He said: "This is my lord." But
when it set, he said: "I like not those that set [i.e., disappear]."

َ ُ ََ َ
ْ‫ون َّن م َِن ٱلْ َقو ِم‬ ْ َ ْ َّ َ َ َ َ َ َ ٓ َّ َ َ َ َ ٰ َ َ َ ً َ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َّ َ َ
‫فلما رءا ٱلقمر بازًِغ قال هـذا ر ِّب ۖ فلما أفل قال لئِن لم يهد ِِّن ر ِّب لك‬
َّ
َ ‫ٱلضٓال‬
‫ِني‬
And when he saw the moon rising, he said: "This is my lord." But when it set, he said: "Unless
my Lord guides me, I will surely be among the people gone astray."

َّ‫ىء مِما‬ ْ َ‫َب ۖ فَلَ َّما ٓ أَفَل‬

ٓ ‫ت قَ َال يَ ٰـ َق ْو ِم إّن بَر‬ َُ‫ك‬ْ َ ٓ َ ٰ َ َ َ ٰ َ َ َ ً َ َ َ ْ َّ َ َ َّ َ َ
‫فلما رءا ٱلشمس بازِغة قال هـذا ر ِّب هـذا أ‬
ِ ِِ
َ ُ ُْ
‫ْشكون‬ِ ‫ت‬
And when he saw the sun rising, he said: "This is my lord; this is greater." But when it set, he
said: "O my people, indeed I am free from what you associate with Allaah.

َ‫ِيفا ۖ َو َما ٓ َأنَا ۠ م َِن ٱل ْ ُم ْْشك ِني‬

ً َ َ ْ َ ْ َ ٰ َ ٰ َ َّ َ َ َ
‫ت وٱلرض حن‬
َّ َ ْ َ ُ ْ َّ َ
ِ ‫إ ِ ِّن وجهت وج ِِه ل َِّلِى فطر ٱلسمـو‬
ِ
Indeed, I have turned my face [i.e., self] toward He Who created the heavens and the earth,
inclining toward truth, and I am not of those who associate others with Allaah."
َ َ ُ ْ ُ َ ُ َ َ ٓ َ َ ٰ َ َ ْ َ َ َّ ُ َ َ َ ُ ُ ْ َ ُ َّ ٓ َ َ
َ‫ون بهِۦٓ إ ََّلٓ أن ي َ َشآء‬ ٓ ُّ ٰٓ َ
ِ ِ ‫ْشك‬ ِ ‫وحاجهۥ قومهۥ ۚ قال أُتـجو ِن ِِف ٱَّللِ وقد هدى ِن ۚ وَل أخاف ما ت‬
َ ُ َّ َ َ َ َ َ َ ً ْ ْ َ َّ ُ َ َ َ ً ْ َ َ
‫ر ِّب شيـا ۗ وسِع ر ِّب ُك َش ٍء عِلما ۗ أفال تتذكرون‬
And his people argued with him. He said: "Do you argue with me concerning Allaah while He
has guided me? And I fear not what you associate with Him [and will not be harmed] unless
my Lord should will something. My Lord encompasses all things in knowledge; then will you
not remember?” [Surat Al-An’aam (6:75-80)]

He went along with what they were saying (i.e., sun is my lord, moon is my lord, stars are my
lord, etc.) in order to show them the deficiencies of their belief.
*What is the deficient character that Ibraheem (‘Alayhis-salaam) directed the attention of his people to in
these false gods?*

It is ‫( صفة الفول‬Al-Ufool)– disappearance.

According to our natural Fitrah, the Creator and the Lord should be perfect in Attributes.
Ibraheem (‘Alayhis-salaam) wanted to draw his people’s attention to the perfect Attribute of
Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) - Knowledge.
 21

Ibraheem (‘Alayhis-salaam) has put two Attributes in front of each other:

ُ
i. ‫ – األفول‬disappearance.

ii. Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) Encompasses everything with His (Subhaanahu wa

Ta’ala) Knowledge.

Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is Who I turn to for everything, Who Helps me, Guides me and
Encompasses everything in Knowledge. If He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) were to go away, then He
wouldn’t know my state, and this is an imperfect character. It doesn’t suit the God that I worship
to disappear and not know what I need or want. If God disappears, how can his worshippers call
unto him, and how can he answer the call of his worshippers?

Similar to Ibraheem (‘Alayhis-salaam), when inviting someone to Islam who is worshipping a

false God, it is advisable to draw their attention to the deficient character that is in their false
gods and affirm the perfect Attributes to Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala).

How can I carry out this mission to glorify Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala)?
1. Learn about Allaah’s (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) Perfection and perfect Attributes, which
negates deficiencies in Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). Learn His Names, Attributes, and
Actions.

• This is not only your mission, but also it is your duty to bring up your children/
students to carry out the mission.

• Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) taught Adam (‘Alayhis-salaam) the names of

everything, and through the names one will know their reality (purpose).

• The Names of Allaah are the most important Names to learn because they imply
Attributes and will help you carry out your duty and mission and glorify Allaah
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala).

• Our plan in this life is to learn the reality of things, and learn the truth and when
to do it, and learn the falsehood in order to avoid it.

• Manipulating the names and giving incorrect names to things will cause great
mischief in the land (i.e., calling gender change, freedom; nudity, modern;
Hijab, oppression), which is why it is important to know the correct names for
everything.

When you are teaching your children/ students, give everything its right name; the evil is evil,
and the good is good.

From the first story of Adam (‘Alayhis-salaam), we learn our mission and purpose in this Dunya,
which is to honor and glorify Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala)
has given us all the tools in our creation and the ability to learn; knowing the right names for
everything will help us to distinguish good from evil.

In everything you go through, this task should be practiced; Tasbeeh (glorification), Tahmeed
(praising Allah), and Taqdees (attribute Allah with holiness).

Example of Tasbeeh:
 22

َ ٰ َ ْ ُ َ ٰ َ َ َ ٰ َ ْ ُ َ ٰ َ َ َّ َ َ َّ َ ٓ َ َ ُ ُ َ َّ ُ ْ ُ ُ ُ ُ ْ َ ْ ٓ َ ْ َ َ
‫ولوَل إِذ س ِمعتموه قلتم ما يكون َلا أن نتَكم بِهـذا سبحـنك هـذا بهتـن ع ِظيم‬
And why, when you heard it, did you not say: "It is not for us to speak of this. Exalted are You,
[O Allaah]; this is a great slander?" [Surat An-Nur (24:16)]

This verse is in the context of the slander of ‘Aishah (Radia-Allaahu ‘anha), a pure, chaste
woman. When the believers heard the slander of the hypocrites against her, their attitude should
have been to glorify Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) from deficiencies. Allaah (Subhaanahu wa
Ta’ala) advised the believers not to speak of this and to say, glorify be to You, O Allaah, this is a
great lie.

Think of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) in this situation: He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) chose for
His noble Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam), his wife, ‘Aishah (Radia-Allaahu ‘anha),
(mentioned in Al-Bukhaari in a correct Hadeeth). She was from a noble lineage and was the
daughter of As-Siddique. If Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is the One Who chose her, then for
sure she is noble, pure and chaste, suitable for the Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam).

So here we say Subhaan Allaah, and free Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) from choosing an
unchaste woman for His Messenger. It came in the middle of the sentence to indicate that the
believers should glorify and sanctify Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) from bad thoughts of Him
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) and His choosing ‘Aishah (Radia-Allaahu ‘anha) for the Prophet (Salla-
Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam).

ٰ َ َّ َ ُ َّ َ َ َّ ُ ٰ َ َّ َ ٰ َ َ ْ َ ُ َْ َ َ َ ْ ُ ٰ َ َْ
ۚ‫ت‬
ِ ‫ت ۖ وٱلطيِبـت ل ِلطيِبِني وٱلطيِبون ل ِلطيِبـ‬ِ ‫ٱْلبِيثـت ل ِلخبِيثِني وٱْلبِيثون ل ِلخبِيثـ‬
َ ْ َ َ ْ َّ ُ َ َ ُ ُ َ َّ َ ُ َّ َ ُ َ ٰٓ َ ُ
‫أو۟لـئِك مَبءون مِما يقولون ۖ لهم مغ ِفرة ورِزق ك ِريم‬
Evil words are for evil men, and evil men are [subjected] to evil words. And good words are
for good men, and good men are [an object] of good words. Those [good people] are declared
innocent of what they [i.e., slanderers] say. For them is forgiveness and noble provision.
[Surat An-Nur (24:26)]

This example is to demonstrate that in every situation you go through in your daily life, you have
to glorify Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). Believing in Allaah’s Wisdom, always freeing Him
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) from imperfection according to the situation you are in. Allaah
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) will never elevate the disbelievers over the believers, but because of the
materialistic lifestyle and the estimation of the people, they talk about the disbelievers with
admiration and look at the evil they are doing.

Regarding the wives of Lut [Lot (‘Alayhis-salaam)] and Nuh [Noah (‘Alayhis-salaam)]; their
betrayal was not in their chastity. Lut’s (‘Alayhis-salaam) wife betrayed him by going to the
people and telling them about the beautiful visitors Lut (‘Alayhis-salaam) had (the angels), but
they were never unchaste. None of the wives of the Prophets were unfaithful to their husbands.
The Story of the Owners of the Garden in Surat Al-Qalam
Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) showed and taught every creature how to glorify Him
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala).
 23

ُ‫ُك قَ ْد َعل َِم َص َالتَهۥ‬

ٌّ ُ ٰ َّ ٰٓ َ ُ ْ َّ َ ْ َ ْ َ ٰ َ ٰ َ َّ َ ُ َ ُ َ ُ َ َّ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ َ
ٍ ‫ت وٱلر ِض وٱلطْي صـفـ‬
ۖ‫ت‬ ِ ‫ألم تر أن ٱَّلل يسبِح ُلۥ من ِِف ٱلسمـو‬
َ ُ َ ْ َ َ ٌۢ َ ُ َّ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ
‫وتسبِيحهۥ ۗ وٱَّلل عل ِيم بِما يفعلون‬
“Do you not see that Allaah is exalted by whomever is within the heavens and the earth and
[by] the birds with wings spread [in flight]? Of each [of them] he knows his prayer and
glorification, and Allaah is All-Aware of what they do.” [Surat An-Nur (24:41)]

Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) inspired every creature to pray to or glorify Him, through
Messengers, or directly (i.e., mountains, stars, etc.) and every creature has their own way of
doing so.

ٰ ََ ْ َ ُ َ ُ َّ ْ َ َّ َ َ ُ ْ َ ْ َ ُ ْ َّ ُ ٰ َ ٰ َ َّ ُ َ ُ َ ُ
‫كن‬
ِ ‫تسبِح ُل ٱلسمـوت ٱلسبع وٱلرض ومن فِي ِهن ۚ ِإَون مِن َش ٍء إَِل يسبِح ِِبم ِده ِۦ ولـ‬
ً‫ِيما َغ ُفورا‬
ً ‫يح ُه ْم ۗ إنَّ ُهۥ ََك َن َحل‬ َ ُ َ ْ َ َّ
َ ‫ون ت َ ْسب‬
ِ ِ ‫َل تفقه‬
“The seven heavens and the earth and whatever is in them exalt Him. And there is not a thing
except that it exalts [Allaah] His praise, but you do not understand their [way of] exalting.
Indeed, He is Ever Forbearing and Forgiving.” [Surat Al-‘Israa’ (17:44)]

Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is attributed with perfection in all His Names and Attributes, He
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) loves those who glorify Him. The angels are appointed with the great
task of constantly glorifying Him and they never fall short of this task.

َ ُ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ َّ َ َ ْ َّ َ ُ َ ُ
‫يسبِحون ٱِلل وٱَلهار َل يفَتون‬
“They exalt [Him] night and day [and] do not slacken.” [Surat Al-Anbiyaa’ (21:20)]

َ ُ َ ُ ْ ُ ْ َ َ َّ
‫حون‬ِ ‫ِإَونا َلحن ٱلمسب‬
“And indeed, we are those who exalt Allaah." [Surat As-Saaffaat (37:166)]
‘Abdullaah Ibn ‘Abbaas (Radia-Allaahu ‘anhuma) reported that
the Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “When our Lord decrees some matter in the
heavens, the bearers of the throne glorify Him (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala), then the inhabitants
of the heaven who are closest to them glorify Him, until the Tasbeeh reaches the people of the
lowest heaven.” [Saheeh Muslim no. 2229]

The Tasbeeh is not merely saying words, rather it should be proven by actions, thoughts,
attitude, etc.

There are many stories in the Qur’an where Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) teaches us how to
glorify Him in similar situations.

One such example is the story of the owners of the garden in Surat Al-Qalam (68:17-33).
 24

This parable portrays the people who inherited the garden from their father. They were from the
people of the book (as is mentioned by Ibn Katheer). Their father had taken great care tending to
the garden. How?

Whatever he reaped from it, he would put it back into the garden (i.e., providing water, fertilizer,
etc.) to prepare the ground/ land as needed. He also would save some of the harvest as food for
his dependants for the whole year and would give the excess away in charity. He was dividing
the produce of this garden into three parts.

When he died and his children inherited it, they thought he had been foolish for giving some
away to the poor. They had the idea that if they didn’t give any away to the poor, they could
keep it for themselves and would have more.

They were punished by Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) took away
all of what they possessed of wealth, gains, charity, etc. Nothing remained for them.

When Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) gave them the garden as inheritance from their father, it
was the first trial for them i.e., He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) tested them with it. Their duty should
have been At-Tasbeeh. But their action was contrary to Tasbeeh.

Whenever one gains anything worldly (inheritance, authority, power, etc.), he should have the
correct attitude.

َ‫ْص ُم َّن َها ُم ْصبحني‬ْ َ‫ٱْل َّنةِ إذْ أَقْ َس ُموا۟ َِل‬
َ ْ َ ٰ َ ْ َ ٓ َ ْ َ َ َ َ ْ ُ ٰ َ ْ َ َ َّ
‫إِنا بلونـهم كما بلونا أصحـب‬
ِ ِ ِ ِ
“Indeed, We have tried them as We tried the companions of the garden, when they swore to
cut its fruit in the [early] morning. [Surat Al-Qalam (68:17)]

This parable illustrates the behavior of the disbelievers of Quraish. Allaah had granted them
great favors [i.e., sending Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) and the Qur’an
to them], but they met the favors with denial and opposition. ‘Them’ in the Ayah refers to the
Quraish.

What is the commonality between the Quraish and the people of the garden? They both were
granted favors from Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala).

The owners of the garden swore by Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) on a false matter (i.e., they
forgot Allaah would know), not to give its fruits to the poor. They swore by Allaah (Subhaanahu
wa Ta’ala) to make it lawful, because of some who didn’t agree with them. They vowed to pluck
it in the early morning so the poor and beggars would not know what they were doing. In this
way, they would be able to keep the fruits for themselves and not give any away in charity.

َ َْ َ
‫َوَل ي َ ْستث ُنون‬
Without making exception. [Surat Al-Qalam (68:18)]

There are two meanings here:

• They decided not to give anything to the poor, without exception.

• They hadn’t said: “Insha ’Allaah” (if Allaah wills), so Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala)
broke their vow.
 25

As a result of their bad thoughts, they agreed that early morning would be the best time to pluck
the fruits because that is when the poor and beggars would not be aware of them. They forgot
that nothing is hidden from Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala), the Lord of the night and day. This
thought contradicts At-Tasbeeh.

It also made them heedless of Allaah’s (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) vast knowledge that
encompasses everything. Allaah’s knowledge and greatness was absent from their minds. They
didn’t sanctify Him and free Him from that bad thought i.e., that Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala)
is unaware of what they do. They didn’t praise Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) of being the All-
Knower of their state.

What caused them to be heedless of Allaah’s (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) knowledge?

1. The abundant wealth and dominion that He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) granted them

2. The authority and power over the people, and they forgot that He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala)
is the true Provider.

They didn’t give Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) His due estimate. They forgot that their
dominion was not absolute or independent of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). Rather, the whole
kingdom belongs to Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala), and He is the absolute Provider. They
didn’t know who Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) is.

Mulk (ownership, authority) is a test from Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). He is testing our
glorification. One must free Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) from bad thoughts which could be a
result of possessing something. Usually when someone is given might or power, he forgets
Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) and has bad thoughts of feeling self-sufficient and that he can do
whatever he wants.

This is exactly the feeling that Fir’awn and Qa’roon had in their hearts when Allaah (Subhaanahu
wa Ta’ala) granted them Mulk (abundant wealth).

The Qur’an is telling us about stories and events that happened in the past and are still occurring
repeatedly in our lives. Whoever, whatever, wherever you are, you are in a state of trial. Our
duty in these trials is to look for the truth.

َ ُ ٓ َ ْ ُ َ َ َّ ٓ َ َََْ َ ََ
‫فطاف عليها طائِف مِن ربِك وهم نائِمون‬
So there came upon it [i.e., the garden] an affliction from your Lord while they were asleep.
[Surat Al-Qalam (68:19)]

Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) used the Name Rabb here to emphasize that He (Subhaanahu wa
Ta’ala) is the True Lord. All the meanings of Allaah’s Name, Ar-Rabb were absent from their
minds. He is the Owner, Reformer, Nurturer, and the Lord.

‫( طائف‬Taa’if) is a destruction from the heavens like a storm or lightening, etc.

َّ َ ْ َ َ ْ ََ
‫ٱلْصي ِم‬
ِ ‫فأصبحت ك‬
And it became as though reaped. [Surat Al-Qalam (68:20)]

‫( رصيم‬Sareem) is like the dark night or the crop when it is harvested, withered, and dry.
 26

This garden was totally destroyed at night when they were not there.

There is an important lesson here; how many of the blessings that Allaah (Subhaanahu wa
Ta’ala) grants us, and we’re not able to protect or guard, even from the decisions of Allaah
(Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). Whatever He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) wills to happen, no one can stop
it.

He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) sent heavenly destruction at night to tell them (and us) that we are
unable to protect whatever we own, including our own selves.

َ َََ
َ ‫اد ْوا۟ ُم ْصبح‬
‫ني‬ ِ ِ ‫فتن‬
And they called one another at morning [Surat Al-Qalam (68:21)]

The letter ‘Faa’ indicates that it was as soon as they woke up in the early morning, so they could
go together to cut the fruits.

ُ ْ َ َٰ َ
ُ ‫ِك ْم إن ُك‬
َ‫نت ْم َص ٰـرمِني‬ ُ ْ َ
ِ ِ ‫أ ِن ٱغدوا۟ لَع حرث‬
[Saying], ‘Go early to your crop if you would cut the fruit.’ [Surat Al-Qalam (68:22)]

َ َ َ ُ َُ َ َ
‫ٱنطلقوا۟ َوه ْم َي َتخ ٰـف ُتون‬ ‫ف‬
So they set out, while lowering their voices [Surat Al-Qalam (68:23)]

Again, they had bad thoughts about Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala); they lowered their voices
not wanting the poor people to hear them, encouraging one another to fulfil the covenant that
they took. This is an indication of the strong resolve that was in their hearts and how they really
wanted to prevent the poor from the harvest of the garden.

ْ ُ ْ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ َّ َ ُ ْ َ َّ َ
‫أن َل يدخلنها ٱِلوم عليكم مِسكِني‬
[Saying], ‘There will surely not enter it today upon you [any] poor person.’
[Surat Al-Qalam (68:24)]

Letter “Noon” in the word “‫[”يدخلنها‬Yadkhulannaha] is called “Noon At-Tawkeed”, which

indicates their assurance that they will not let any of the poor people enter their garden.

ٰ َ َ ۟‫َو َغ َد ْوا‬
َ ‫لَع َح ْر ٍد قَ ٰـدِر‬
‫ين‬ِ
And they went early in determination, [assuming themselves] able.”
[Surat Al-Qalam (68:25)]

This is another bad attitude that negates the Tasbeeh of Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala). They
went in the morning with strength, power, and resolve, thinking they had the power to do what
they claimed and desired without anyone stopping them, forgetting that Allaah (Subhaanahu wa
Ta’ala) is Able to stop them.
 27

They thought giving to the poor would reduce their money. They viewed the small amount of
Sadaqah that they would be giving away as though it would decrease their richness.

There are many rich people with that mentality, who think that the poor people are trying to fool
them and cause them poverty. They are thinking more about the small amount they are giving
away than the richness Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) will give them for giving Sadaqah, and
the richness He (Subhaanahu wa Ta’ala) had already given them.
The Story of the Owners of the Garden in Surat Al-Qalam
Continued

When Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) would pray Qiyam, he would
prolong his Sujood and Ruku’ to the length of his standing, glorifying and praising Allaah (Azza
wa Jall). When he (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) would ride his camel, he used to say the
Du’aa for travel. He (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) was always glorifying Allaah (Azza wa
Jall). When he (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) wondered at something, he (Salla-Allaahu
‘alayhi wa sallam) would glorify Allaah (Azza wa Jall) and say “Subhaan Allaah.” When he
(Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) and the Sahabah were descending a valley, they were
constantly saying “Subhaan Allaah.”

Allaah (Ta’ala) commanded him (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) to glorify Him when he was
distressed, especially when the Mushrikeen harmed him.

َ ُ ُ َ َ َ ُ ْ َ ُ َ َ َّ َ ُ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ
‫ضيق صدرك بِما يقولون‬ِ ‫ولقد نعلم أنك ي‬
And We already know that your breast is constrained by what they say.

َّ ‫ك َو ُكن م َِن‬
َ‫ٱلس ٰـجدِين‬ َ َ َْ ْ َ َ
ِ ِ ‫فسبِح ِِبم ِد رب‬
So exalt [Allaah] with praise of your Lord and be of those who prostrate [to Him].

َ َ ْ َ ٰ َّ َ َ َّ َ ْ ُ ْ َ
ُ‫ك ْٱِلَقِني‬ ‫وٱعبد ربك حَّت يأتِي‬
And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty [i.e., death].
Surat Al-Hijr (15: 97-99)

When one wants to be comforted, say “Subhaan Allaah” profusely, and He (Azza wa Jall) will
put you at ease and help you in all your affairs, and He (Azza wa Jall) will give you the reward in
this Dunya and the Akhirah.
ٓ َ َ ْ َ َ ُ ُ َ ْ َ َ ْ َّ ُ ُ َ ْ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ ُ ُ َ َ َٰ َ ْ ْ َ
ِ
ِ‫فٱص َِب لَع ما يقولون وسب ِح ِِبم ِد ربِك قبل طلوع ٱلشم ِس وقبل غروبِها ۖ ومِن ءانائ‬
َ َّ َ َ َ َّ َ َ ْ َ َ ْ َ َ ْ َّ
ٰ‫ك تَ ْر َض‬ ‫ٱِل ِل فسبِح وأطراف ٱَلهارِ لعل‬
So be patient over what they say and exalt [Allaah] with praise of your Lord before the rising
of the sun and before its setting; and during periods of the night [exalt Him] and at the ends of
the day, that you may be satisfied. [Surat Taha (20: 130)]
 28

This indicates that the life of Prophet Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) was full of
Tasbeeh. We should be following his example by glorifying Allaah (Azza wa Jall) in all our
affairs and situations, night and day.
Continuing the Story of the Owners of the Garden in Surat Al-Qalam:
They were tried with ownership, kingship, inheriting a garden from their father, and they didn’t
practice At-Tasbeeh; they didn’t glorify Allaah (Azza wa Jall).

1. They thought bad about Allaah (Azza wa Jall) when they thought that they had full power
over their garden, and no one could stop them from doing what they intended (not to give
the poor their share of the harvest).

2. They thought that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) was unaware of their plot.

Allaah (Azza wa Jall) sent a destruction from the heaven and their garden became withered and
dry like a dark night. The next morning, they set out with evil intentions, determined to stop
anyone who got in their way.

Then they saw the destruction of their garden:

َ ُّ ٓ َ َ َّ ٓ ُ َ َ ْ َ َ َّ َ َ
‫فلما رأوها قالوا۟ إِنا لضالون‬
But when they saw it, they said, "Indeed, we are lost. [Surat Al-Qalam (68:26)]

At first they thought they had taken the wrong path and went to the wrong garden.

َ ُ َُْ َُْ َْ
‫بل َنن َمرومون‬
Rather, we have been deprived." [Surat Al-Qalam (68:27)]

They realized they had no portion or share of the harvest. In Surat Ar-Ra’ad, Allaah (Azza wa
Jall) says clearly: “Verily Allaah will not change the good condition of the people as long as
they don’t change their state of goodness (i.e., by committing sins, being ungrateful, etc.).”
This is the Sunnah (way of dealing) of Allaah (Azza wa Jall).

َ ُ َ ُ َ ْ َ ْ ُ َّ ُ َ ْ َ َ ْ ُ ُ َ ْ َ َ َ
‫قال أوسطهم ألم أقل لكم لوَل تسبِحون‬
The most moderate of them said: "Did I not say to you, 'Why do you not exalt [Allaah]?'"
Surat Al-Qalam (68:28)

Here the word ‫( التسبيح‬At-Tasbeeh) appeared. The interpreters said this is the most just person
amongst the owners of the garden and the best of them. It means, why didn’t you say: “Insha’
Allaah” when you made your plan, and why didn’t you say Tasbeeh when you made the
decision not to give the poor from your wealth, not thanking Allaah (Azza wa Jall) for what He
has given you. Thanking Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is by giving the poor their share. If a person
doesn’t give the poor their share, they haven’t thanked Allaah (Azza wa Jall) for their wealth.

It is to free Allaah (Azza wa Jall) from resembling any of the created beings in His Oneness of
Kingship, power and ability. The owners of the garden resembled themselves to Allaah (Azza wa
 29

Jall) in having full power over the garden, and in giving and preventing the poor from a share of
the harvest.

َ ‫ح ٰـ َن َرب َنا ٓ إنَّا ُك َّنا َظ ٰـلِم‬

‫ني‬ َ ْ‫قَالُوا۟ ُسب‬
ِ ِ ِ
They said: "Exalted is our Lord! Indeed, we were wrongdoers." [Surat Al-Qalam (68:29)]

They are admitting and confessing to committing Dhulm and are among the wrongdoers. They
have put their resolve in the wrong place. What they intended to do (reap the harvest of the
garden) they didn’t say: Insha’ Allaah. Nothing can happen without Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall) will.

They became obedient, but it was too late; the garden had already been destroyed. They were
remorseful but it was when it was of no use.

َ ُ َ ٰ َ َ َ ْ َ َٰ َ ْ ُ ُ ْ َ َ َ ْ َ َ
‫فأقبل بعضهم لَع بع ٍض يتلـومون‬
Then they approached one another, blaming each other. [Surat Al-Qalam (68:30)]

They were blaming each other for what they resolved to do i.e., not give the poor from the
harvest.

َ ‫قَالُوا۟ يَ ٰـ َويْلَ َنا ٓ إنَّا ُك َّنا َط ٰـ ِغ‬

‫ني‬ ِ
They said: "O woe to us; indeed, we were transgressors. [(Surat Al-Qalam (68:31)]

They transgressed with regards their own selves in their feelings of ownership, feeling they were
independent of Allaah (Azza wa Jall) in managing their own affairs and that they could do
whatever they wanted.

This can happen to anyone, especially those who have a monthly salary i.e., their own resources.
They hardly invoke Allaah (Azza wa Jall) and have a feeling of independence in managing their
own affairs.

This person didn’t free Allaah (Azza wa Jall) from resembling His creation. He thought that he
resembled Allaah in his power and ability to dispose his own affairs.

This person is mistaken in his Aqeedah, therefore he behaved wrongly. This is Dhulm and
Tughyan (transgression). Whoever feels like this, has committed wrongdoing and transgression.
They forgot the concept of Tasbeeh and were heedless. It led them to arrogance and haughtiness.

They repented.

َ ُ ٰ َ َ َ ٰ َ ٓ َّ ٓ َ ْ ً ْ َ َ َ ْ ُ َ ٓ َ ُّ َ ٰ َ َ
‫عَس ربنا أن يبدَِلا خْيا مِنها إِنا إَِل ربِنا رغِبون‬
Perhaps our Lord will substitute for us [one] better than it. Indeed, we are toward our Lord,
desirous." [Surat Al-Qalam (68:32)]

They were hoping for the reward for this calamity in the Akhirah.

َ َُْ َ ُ َ ْ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ َ ْ ُ َ َ َ َ ُ َ َ ْ َ َٰ َ
‫كذل ِك ٱلعذاب ۖ ولعذاب ٱلـاخِرة ِ أكَب ۚ لو َكنوا۟ يعلمون‬
 30

Such is the punishment [of this world]. And the punishment of the Hereafter is greater, if they
only knew. [Surat Al-Qalam (68:33)]

We have to pause and think again and again about this Statement of Allaah (Azza wa Jall). This
is the punishment of whoever opposes His (Azza wa Jall) command and shows stinginess with
whatever He (Azza wa Jall) has granted him (i.e., money, knowledge, etc.).

Those who respond to Allaah’s blessings with ungratefulness and disbelief can expect such
punishment. This punishment is only in the Dunya; the punishment in the Hereafter is more
severe.

It indicates Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall) Ability and Power, and His Watchfulness, which He (Azza wa
Jall) willed to draw attention to, especially warning the people against transgressions in their
dominion and ownership and what they own.

Look at those who are transgressing, killing, devouring the wealth of the people unjustly,
preventing the people from their rights, oppressing the weak and needy, expelling people from
their homes, etc. This is the action of the person who feels that he has full power.

Whenever we are given power or authority over something, whether in the family or at our
workplace, etc.:

1. Believe that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is the true Owner of that matter, and He (Azza wa Jall)
is testing us.

2. Believe that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) has full Power over the affairs, and it is only with His
Help that we are able to manage. Show incapacity and neediness to Allaah (Azza wa Jall).
Ask His (Azza wa Jall) help.

3. Be grateful, and don’t feel independent from Allaah (Azza wa Jall). We have to feel
dependent on Him in every matter.

Any punishment that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) brings to His servants on this earth is not pure evil.
Pure evil contradicts His (Azza wa Jall) existence, and of Him (Azza wa Jall) having perfect
attributes.

َ ْ ُ ْ ُ َ َ ُ ٓ َ َ َ َ ْ ُ ْ ْ ُ ْ ُ ْ َ ٰ َ َّ ُ َّ ُ
ُ‫ك ِم َّمن ت َ َشا ٓ ُء َوتُعِ ُّز َمن ت َ َشآء‬ ‫َنع ٱلمل‬ِ ‫ك تؤ ِِت ٱلملك من تشاء وت‬ ِ ‫ق ِل ٱللهم مـل ِك ٱلمل‬
َ ْ َ ُ ٰ َ َ َ َّ ُ ْ َ ْ َ َ ُ ٓ َ َ َ ُّ ُ َ
‫ُك َش ٍء قدِير‬
ِ ‫وتذِل من تشاء ۖ بِيدِك ٱْلْي ۖ إِنك لَع‬
Say, "O Allaah, Owner of Sovereignty, You give sovereignty to whom You will and You take
sovereignty away from whom You will. You honor whom You will, and You humble whom
You will. In Your hand is [all] good. Indeed, You are over all things, Able.
Surat Aal-‘Imran (3:26)

Such punishments are a favor or blessing because preventing the blessing is a gift to turn the
person back to Him so that he will invoke and supplicate, and single Him (Azza wa Jall) out in
sovereignty

Had it not been for their difficulty, the owners of the garden would not have said those words of
remorse. This is the way how most of the believers repent to Allah, due to Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall)
nurturing for them and by stricting the situation for them.
 31

Any torment on the surface of the earth is for a good purpose, even if it might look evil, such as
the destruction of the garden, or the wealth of a rich person who becomes poor. There is always a
wisdom in it.

Allaah (Azza wa Jall) created us for Jannah. Therefore, anyone who turns away from this path to
Jannah will face calamities. This is to turn them back to Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall) way to lead them
to Paradise.

َ ُ ْ َ ْ ُ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ ْ َ ُ َٰ ْ َ ْ َ َ ْ َ ُ َّ َ ُ َ َ
‫جعون‬
ِ ‫ر‬ ‫ي‬ ‫م‬‫ه‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ع‬ ‫ل‬ ‫َب‬
ِ ‫ك‬ ‫ٱل‬ ‫اب‬
ِ ‫ذ‬ ‫ع‬ ‫ٱل‬ ‫ون‬‫د‬ ‫ّن‬‫د‬ ‫ٱل‬ ‫اب‬
ِ ‫وَلذِيقنهم مِن ٱلع‬
‫ذ‬
And We will surely let them taste the nearer punishment short of the greater punishment that
perhaps they will return [i.e., repent]. [Surat As-Sajdah (32:21)]

He (Azza wa Jall) is afflicting us in this Dunya for our mistakes because He doesn’t want us to
face the greater torment in the Hereafter. So here in the Dunya we are afflicted with poverty,
sickness, etc., and all these calamities are insignificant compared to the punishment of the
Hereafter.

ُ‫ٱَّللِ َوٱلْ َفتْح‬

َّ ُ ْ َ َ ٓ َ َ
‫إِذا جاء نْص‬
When the victory of Allaah has come and the conquest,

ً‫ٱَّللِ أَفْ َواجا‬

َّ
‫ِين‬
َ ُ ُ ْ َ َ َّ َ ْ َ َ َ
ِ ‫ورأيت ٱَلاس يدخلون ِِف د‬
And you see the people entering into the religion of Allaah in multitudes,

ٌۢ‫ٱس َت ْغفِ ْرهُ ۚ إِنَّ ُهۥ ََك َن تَ َّوابًا‬ َ َ َْ ْ َ َ

ْ ‫ك َو‬
ِ ‫فسبِح ِِبم ِد رب‬
Then exalt [Him] with praise of your Lord and ask forgiveness of Him. Indeed, He is ever

َْ ُ ْ ُ
Accepting of Repentance. [Surat An-Nasr (110: 1-3)]
َّ ُ َ َ ْ َ َ َ َ َ
‫ت َكن َر ُسول اَّللِ صىل اَّلل عليه وسلم يك َِث أن‬ ‫ع ْن ََعئِشة ـ رض اَّلل عنها ـ قال‬
ُ َّ َ َ َ ْ َّ َّ َ َ َ ْ ُ ُ ‫ول ِف ُر ُكو ِعهِ َو ُس‬َ َُ
‫ يتأول‬." ‫ الل ُه َّم اغفِ ْر َِل‬،‫ح ْمد َِك‬
َ ‫الل ُه َّم َر َّب َنا َوب‬
ِ ‫ك‬ ‫ان‬‫ح‬ ‫ب‬ ‫س‬ " ِ ‫ه‬‫د‬ِ ‫و‬‫ج‬ ِ ‫يق‬
َ ْ ُْ
.‫القرآن‬
‘Aishah (Radia-Allaahu ‘anha) narrated that Allaah's Messenger (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa
sallam) used to say frequently in bowing and prostration (during his prayers): “Subhaanka
Allaahumma Rabbana wa bihamdika, Allaahumma ighfirli,” according to the order of the
Qur'an. [Al-Bukhari no. 4968]

After Allaah (Ta’ala) commanded the Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) in Surah An-
Nasr (above), he would glorify Allaah, praise Him and ask for forgiveness. It is a Sunnah of the
Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) and after our usual supplications in Ruku’ and Sujood,
it is recommended to say it as well.
 32

‘Aishah (Radia-Allaahu ‘anha) asked the Prophet (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) why he says:
‫( سبحان هللا وبحمده استغفر هللا و اتوب اليك‬Subhaan Allaahi wa bihamdihi astaghfirullaah wa atubu alaik).
He (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) answered, verily my Lord has informed me that I will see a
sign in my nation, and He (Ta’ala) commanded me that when I see that sign, I should glorify His
praises and seek His forgiveness because He (Ta’ala) is the One Who accepts repentance. Indeed,
I have seen that sign (Surat An-Nasr).

Any time we see the word Tasbeeh (glorify) in the Qur’an, we have to pause and link it to freeing
Allaah (Ta’ala) from defects and resemblance to His (Ta’ala) creation.

The story of Ayyoub (‘Alayhis-salaam) in Surat Saad (38:41)

All our strength revolves around the Tawheed of Allaah (Ta’ala), while we are glorifying His
praises. In every situation, we have to do our duty while we are glorifying Him. Bear in mind
that while we are doing that, we have an enemy (Shaytaan) waiting for us who tries his best to
stop us from Tasbeeh.

َ َ َ ْ ُ ُ ٰ َ ْ َّ َ َّ َ َ ٓ ُ َّ َ ٰ َ َ ْ َ ُّ َ ٓ َ َ ْ َ ْ ُ ْ َ
‫اب‬
ٍ ‫ب وعذ‬ ٍ ‫وٱذكر عبدنا أيوب إِذ نادى ربهۥ أ ِّن مس ِِن ٱلشيطـن بِنص‬
And remember Our servant Job [Ayyoub (‘Alayhis-salaam)], when he called to his Lord:
"Indeed, Satan has touched me with hardship and torment." [Surat Saad (38:41)]

Ayyoub (‘Alayhis-salaam) was afflicted with numerous difficulties; he lost his children, health
and wealth. He referred all that (hardship) to the touch of the Shaytaan.

Ibn Mas’ud (Radia-Allaahu ‘anhu) explained the touch of the Shaytaan to his wife Zaynab
(Radia-Allaahu ‘anha). It is narrated by Ibn Maajah that Ibn Mas’ud (Radia-Allaahu ‘anhu) saw a
string around her neck and asked her what it was. She said it was a string that a Jewish rabbi had
recited upon. He took it and cut it off and said that the family of ‘Abdullaah are in no need of the

َّ ْ َ ْ َ َّ ْ َ ِ َ َ ْ
Shirk.
ُ َُ َّ َ ُ َ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ ‫َع ْن َزيْ َن‬
" ‫ قال س ِمعت رسول اَّللِ صىل اَّلل عليه وسلم يقول‬،ِ‫ امرأة عب ِد اَّللِ عن عب ِد اَّلل‬،‫ب‬
ُ ْ‫ت َعيِْن َت ْقذ ُِف َو ُكن‬ َّ َ َ َ ُ ُ َ َ ُ ْ ُ ْ َ َ
ْ َ‫اَّللِ لَ َق ْد ََكن‬ ْ ِ ‫اَل َمائ َم َواَل َِولَ َة‬
َّ ‫الر ََق َو‬ ُّ ‫إ ِ َّن‬
‫ت‬ ِ ‫و‬ ‫ا‬‫ذ‬ ‫ه‬ ‫ول‬‫ق‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ِم‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ل‬ ‫ق‬ ‫ت‬‫ال‬ ‫ق‬ . " ‫ك‬ ‫ْش‬ ِ
َ ْ َّ ُ َ َ َ َ َّ َّ ُ ْ َ َ َ َ ْ َ َ َ َ َ َ َ ْ َ ُ َ ْ َ ُ َ ُ َْ َ
‫ان‬
ِ ‫ فقال عبد اَّللِ إِنما ذاكِ عمل الشيط‬. ‫اّن سكنت‬ ِ ‫ِيِن فإِذا رق‬ ِ ‫أختل ِف إَِل فال ٍن اِلهود ِِي يرق‬
َّ ُ ُ َ َ َ َ َ َُ َْ ْ َ َ َ َ َّ َ ْ َ َّ َ َ َ َ َ َ َ َ ُ َ ْ َ َ َ
‫وِل كما َكن رسول اَّللِ صىل اَّلل‬ ِ ‫ق‬ ‫ت‬ ‫ن‬ ‫أ‬ ‫يك‬ِ ‫ف‬
ِ ‫ك‬ ‫َكن ينخسها بِي ِده ِ فإِذا رقاها كف عنها إِنما َكن ي‬
َ ً َ َ ُ َ َّ َ َ َ
ُ‫َل ُي َغادِر‬ َّ َ ْ َ ْ َّ َّ َ َ َ ْ َْ ُ َُ
‫اِف َل شِفاء إَِل شِفاؤك شِفاء‬ ِ ‫اس اش ِف أنت الش‬ ِ ‫ِب اْلاس رب اَل‬ ِ ‫عليه وسلم يقول " أذه‬
. " ‫سقما‬
ً َ َ
Zaynab (Radia-Allaahu ‘anha), the wife of ‘Abdullaah ibn Mas'ud (Radia-Allaahu ‘anhu) said
that ‘Abdullaah said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) saying:
“Spells, charms and love-potions are polytheism.”
I asked: “Why do you say this? I swear by Allaah, when my eye was not well, I used to go to
so-and-so, the Jew, who applied a spell on me. When he applied the spell on me, it calmed
down.” ‘Abdullaah (Radia-Allaahu ‘anhu) said:
“That was just the work of the devil who was picking it with his hand, and when he uttered
the spell on it, he desisted. All you need to do is say as the Messenger of Allaah (Salla-Allaahu
 33

‘alayhi wa sallam) used to say: ‘Remove the harm, O Lord of men, and heal. You are the
Healer. There is no remedy but Yours which leaves no disease behind.’”
[Sunan Abu Dawoud no. 3883]

From this Hadeeth we conclude that the Shaytaan causes pain for the person in order to turn the
people towards Shirk and the use of talismans and charms, believing they will remove the pain.
If you told anyone that the Shaytaan caused your sickness (or caused it to increase) he might not
believe it and deny it. Ayyoub (‘Alayhis-salaam) explained this in Surat Saad when he said:
“Satan had touched me”. Allaah (Ta’ala) is the One Who gave that power to the Shaytaan.
Without Allaah’s (Ta’ala) permission, he is unable to cause and increase the pain. Sickness is one
of the gates of the harm and enmity of the Shaytaan.

When one of your children becomes sick and you feel intense fear or grief or pain, remind
yourself of this Ayah, and how the Shaytaan afflicts us with hardship, distress, torment, pain, etc.
When this happens, ask for Allaah’s (Ta’ala) help and make Du’aa to Him (Ta’ala).

Some interpreters said that “‫( ”مسني الشيطان‬Satan has touched me), means, touched with the evil
whispers which caused me distress and torment. Which means the torment is a spiritual torment
which is worse than bodily pain. The Shaytaan wants every sick person to think bad of Allaah
(Ta’ala) and to drive them away from His Tasbeeh.

Ibn Mas’ud (Radia-Allaahu ‘anhu) mentioned ‫( ينخس‬Yankhas) in a Hadeeth. This word means the
Shaytaan touched or pushed or pressed it, in order to cause pain. This is how the Shaytaan
overpowers the people as a test for them.

Nothing in this world occurs without the Will of Allaah (Ta’ala). He (Ta’ala) may subject/
empower some over others. i.e., someone overpowers and causes harm to another, it is all by
Allaah’s (Ta’ala) Will. Allaah (Ta’ala) gave him the strength. It is to test both of them. Similarly,
the Shayateen can harm human beings, and Allaah (Ta’ala) has given them that power to test the
people. What will they do/ think about Allaah (Ta’ala) when they become sick? Many of the
pains that one feels are a trial from Allaah (Ta’ala) and are done by the Shaytaan, i.e., sleeping
when reciting the Qur’an or attending a gathering of Dhikr or a lecture. This is a harm from the
Shaytaan for that person.

Shaikh As-Sa’dee (Rahimahullaah) explained this matter of “The touch of Satan” saying: “The
Shaytaan was given the power to harm Ayyoub (‘Alayhis-salaam) physically, so he used to blow
on his skin until it was filled with sores which then ruptured, his family died, his wealth was
destroyed.” [Tayseer Al-Kareem]

All this work was from the Shaytaan for one purpose, to test the person, and to lead them to bad
thoughts about Allaah (Ta’ala).

Why do you feel good after reciting the Mu’awwidhaat?

- It is because you are seeking refuge and protection from all kinds of evil generally and
from the Shaytaan and his evil specifically. He is the cause of distress, pain and evil, by the
Will of Allaah (Ta’ala). This proves that Shaytaan might harm the person physically and
spiritually. That is why we feel good after reciting them and blowing on our sick bodies.

Conclusion

How should we glorify Allaah (Ta’ala) in times of sickness?

 34

1. Believe that Allaah (Ta’ala) gave the Shaytaan the power to harm us as a trial and test.
Allaah (Ta’ala) is testing us.
2. We have to think good of Allaah (Ta’ala).
3. Free Him (Ta’ala) of bad thoughts.
4. Attribute the harm and pain to the Shaytaan.
5. Free Allaah (Ta’ala) from the bad thought that this sickness has no cure. Allaah (Ta’ala) is
Ash-Shaafee, in His Hand is Al-Shifa.
6. Don’t think that there isn’t wisdom behind the sickness and that it is for no reason.
7. Recite Ruqyah and make Du’aa to Allaah (Ta’ala).
8. Know that Allaah (Ta’ala) is the only One Who will cure us.

ُ‫ُك قَ ْد َعل َِم َص َالتَهۥ‬

ٌّ ُ ٰ َّ ٰٓ َ ُ ْ َّ َ ْ َ ْ َ ٰ َ ٰ َ َّ َ ُ َ ُ َ ُ َ َّ َّ َ َ َ ْ َ َ
ٍ ‫ت وٱلر ِض وٱلطْي صـفـ‬
ۖ‫ت‬ ِ ‫ألم تر أن ٱَّلل يسبِح ُلۥ من ِِف ٱلسمـو‬
َ ُ ْ َ ‫َوت َ ْسب‬
ُ َّ ‫يح ُهۥ ۗ َو‬
‫ٱَّلل َعل ِيمٌۢ ب ِ َما َيف َعلون‬ ِ
Do you not see that Allaah is exalted by whomever is within the heavens and the earth and
[by] the birds with wings spread [in flight]? Each [of them] has known his [means of] prayer
and exalting [Him], and Allaah is Knowing of what they do. [Surat An-Nur (24:41)]

This indicates the great virtue of At-Tasbeeh (glorification). Allaah (Azza wa Jall) let Prophet
Muhammad (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) hear the Tasbeeh of the inanimate objects (i.e., the
tree trunks, pebbles, etc.), as is mentioned in the Hadeeth authenticated by Shaikh Al-Albaani:

َّ َ َّ ُ ً ْ َ َ َ ُّ ُ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ ً َ َ َ َ ُّ ُ َ َّ ُ َ َ َّ ْ َ َ
ُ َ َ
ِ‫ كنا مع رسو ِل اَّلل‬،‫ات بركة وأنتم تعدونها َتوِيفا‬ ِ ‫ قال كنا نعد الي‬،ِ‫ع ْن عب ِد اَّلل‬
َ ُ ‫ج‬ َ َ‫ ف‬." ‫ضلَ ًة م ِْن َماء‬ ْ َ ُُ ْ َ َ َ ُ َ ْ َّ َ َ َ َ
‫اءوا بِإِنا ٍء‬ ٍ ‫ف‬ ‫وا‬ ‫ب‬ ‫ل‬‫اط‬ " ‫ال‬ ‫صىل اَّلل عليه وسلم ِِف سف ٍر فقل الماء فق‬
َ‫َب َك ُة مِن‬َ َ ْ ‫ َوال‬، ِ‫ارك‬ َ ‫الط ُهور ال ْ ُم َب‬
َّ ‫لَع‬َ َ َّ َ َ َ َّ ُ َ ُ َ َ َ َ ََْ َ َ
ِ ‫َح‬ " ‫ال‬ ‫ق‬ ‫م‬ ‫ث‬ ،ِ ‫ء‬ ‫ا‬ ‫ن‬ ‫اإل‬
ِ ِ ‫ِف‬ ‫ه‬ ‫د‬ ‫ي‬ ‫ل‬ ‫خ‬ ‫د‬ ‫أ‬‫ف‬ ،‫ِيل‬ ‫ل‬ ‫فِيهِ ماء ق‬
َّ‫ َولَ َق ْد ُكنا‬،‫اَّللِ صىل اَّلل عليه وسلم‬ َّ ُ َ َ َ َْ ْ ُ َُْ َْ ُ ََْ ْ َََ َّ
‫ني أصابِعِ رسو ِل‬ َ
ِ ‫اَّللِ " فلقد رأيت الماء ينبع مِن ب‬
َُ ْ ْ َ ‫ن َ ْس َم ُع ت َ ْسب‬
.‫ام َوه َو يُؤُك‬ ِ ‫الط َع‬
َّ ‫يح‬
ِ
`Abdullaah (Radai-Allaahu ‘anhu) narrated:
We used to consider miracles as Allaah's Blessings, but you people consider them to be a
warning. Once we were with Allaah's Messenger (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) on a
journey, and we ran short of water. He (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: "Bring the water
remaining with you." The people brought a utensil containing a little water. He placed his
hand in it and said: "Come to the blessed water, and the Blessing is from Allaah." I saw the
water flowing from between the fingers of Allaah's Messenger (Salla-Allaahu ‘alayhi wa
sallam), and no doubt, we heard the meal glorifying Allaah, when it was being eaten (by him).
[Saheeh Al-Bukhaari no. 3579]

If the created beings without souls are glorifying Allaah (Azza wa Jall), then what about
humankind, what is their state? Why is their glorification not perfect and not much? It is because
these objects know their Creator.
 35

Practicing At-Tasbeeh (glorification) at the time of remembering Allaah’s favors upon us

َ ُ َ َْ َ ٰ ََْْ َ ْ ُْ َ ُ َ َ َ َ َ َ َّ ُ َ ٰ َ ْ َ ْ َ َ َ َّ َ
‫ك وٱلنعـ ِم ما تركبون‬
ِ ‫وٱَّلِى خلق ٱلزوج َكها وجعل لكم مِن ٱلفل‬
And Who created the pairs, all of them, and has made for you of ships and animals, those
which you mount

َ ْ‫ٱس َت َويْ ُت ْم َعلَيْهِ َو َت ُقولُوا۟ ُسب‬

ْ ‫ك ْم إ َذا‬
ُ َ ََْ ُ ْ َ َّ ُ ََ
ُ ‫لَع ُظ‬ ُ ‫ل ِتَ ْس َت‬
‫ح ٰـ َن‬ ِ ِ ‫ب‬ ‫ر‬ ‫ة‬‫م‬ ‫ِع‬ ‫ن‬ ۟‫وا‬ ُ
‫ر‬ ‫ك‬ ‫ذ‬ ‫ت‬ ‫م‬‫ث‬ ‫ِۦ‬ ‫ه‬ِ ‫ور‬‫ه‬ ٰ ۟‫ۥا‬ ‫و‬
َ‫َّٱَّلِى َس َّخ َر ََلَا َه ٰـ َذا َو َما ُك َّنا ُُلۥ ُم ْقرن ِني‬
َ
ِ
That you may settle yourselves upon their backs and then remember the favor of your Lord
when you have settled upon them and say: "Exalted is He Who has subjected this to us, and
we could not have [otherwise] subdued it.

َ َ َ َ ٓ َّ
‫ِإَونا إ ِ َٰل َرب ِ َنا ل ُمنقل ُِبون‬
And indeed we, to our Lord, will [surely] return." [Surat Az-Zukhruf (43:12-14)]

No one is able to subjugate these modes of transportation except Allaah (Azza wa Jall) because
most people feel they have the power over their transport. They think they are in control of the
horses, camels, and cars. People think they have bought it with their money and manufactured it
with their intelligence (regarding planes, trains, cars, etc.). They don’t know that Allaah (Azza wa
Jall) is the One subjugating these things to make it easy for them to ride. If He (Azza wa Jall)
didn’t do that, no one would be able to ride them.

What is the wisdom in ending the verse with, “to our Lord we will return”?

The interpreters have said that when a person rides a mount, he shouldn’t think that he has full
control over what he is riding. It could be a cause of his destruction and return to his Lord. Ibn
Katheer (Rahimahullaah) said in his Tafseer, that at the time of man’s death, he will return to
Allaah (Azza wa Jall), and his ultimate destination is with Him (Azza wa Jall). This Ayah is
regarding one’s earthly journey (i.e., driving a car, going somewhere by plane, etc.). When Allaah
(Azza wa Jall) mentions earthly possessions, He (Azza wa Jall) also mentions the Hereafter.

The story of Zakariya (‘Alayhis-salaam) in Surat Aal-‘Imran (3:37-41)

From the story of Adam (‘Alayhis-salaam), we know the facts behind our existence, and the pre-
ordained decrees upon the creation as a test for their certainty in Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall)
greatness and ability and He (Azza wa Jall) is unseen.

The creation is given the ability to be righteous or wicked; they are inspired by Taqwa (God
consciousness) as well as wickedness. A believer is required to sanctify Allaah (Azza wa Jall) and
free Him of deficiency, weakness and imperfect attributes. Everything around us helps us to
know about Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall) perfection. There are also some matters that are so hidden
and contradict one’s self-desire, and in such cases, a person needs to sanctify Allaah (Azza wa
Jall) and free Him of such defects and deficiencies.

In many situations a person goes through in his life, he cannot see or understand the wisdom
because of the deficiencies in his mind. Even if it is hidden, one has to understand that even
 36

when he can’t see the wisdom, he has to sanctify, glorify and free Allaah (Azza wa Jall) of defects
and deficiencies. One should say, ‘Allaah (Azza wa Jall) knows, and I don’t know and there is
wisdom that I don’t know.’ That way, if one goes through something where the wisdom is
unclear, he will know what to do.

Zakariya (‘Alayhis-salaam) was granted offspring in a special way that humans are not
accustomed to. This story is in the context of Maryam (‘Alayhas-salaam) and her mother.

َ َ‫َف َت َق َّبلَ َها َر ُّب َها ب َق ُبول َح َسن َوأ‬

َّ‫ۢنب َت َها َن َباتًا َح َس ًنا َو َك َّفلَ َها َز َكر َّيا ۖ َُكَّ َما َد َخ َل َعلَيْ َها َز َكريا‬
ِ ِ ٍ ٍ ِ
َّ َّ َّ
َ‫ٱَّلل‬ ْ َ
ُ ْ َ َ َ ٰ َ َ ٰ َّ ُ َ ْ َ ٰ َ َ َ ً ْ َ َ َ َ َ َ َ ْ ْ
َ
‫ك هـذا ۖ قالت هو مِن عِن ِد ٱَّللِ ۖ إِن‬ ِ ‫ٱل ِمحراب وجد عِندها رِزقا ۖ قال يـمريم أّن ل‬
َ ْ َ ُٓ ََ َ ُُ َْ
‫اب‬ٍ ‫ْي حِس‬ِ ‫يرزق من يشاء بِغ‬
So her Lord accepted her with good acceptance and caused her to grow in a good manner and
put her in the care of Zakariya. Every time Zakariya entered upon her in the prayer chamber,
he found with her provision. He said: "O Maryam, from where is this [coming] to you?" She
said: "It is from Allaah. Indeed, Allaah provides for whom He wills without account."
[Surat Aal-‘Imran (3:37)]

How many times is one asked this question, and how many times does he answer saying, from
Allaah (Azza wa Jall)? Seldom. When Zakariya saw that, he was eager to have a child of his own,
even though he was an old man at that time; his bones were feeble, and his hair was grey.

ٓ َ ُّ ُ َ َ َّ ً َ َ ً َّ ُ َ ُ َّ ْ ‫ُه َنال َِك َد ََع َز َكر َّيا َر َّب ُهۥ ۖ قَ َال َرب َه‬
ِ‫ب َِل مِن لنك ذرِية طيِبة ۖ إِنك س ِميع ٱلَعء‬ ِ ِ
At that, Zakariya called upon his Lord, saying: "My Lord, grant me from Yourself a good
offspring. Indeed, You are the Hearer of supplication." [Surat Aal-‘Imran (3:38)]

‫ – هنالك‬in that place, at that time, immediately right away. Zakariya invoked his Lord asking for
good offspring.

What he had seen gave him “Ain al-Yaqeen”– certainty with his eyes. He had seen the miracle
that Allaah (Azza wa Jall) had honored Maryam with, which made him invoke Allaah (Azza wa
Jall) with the greatest of certainty that was in his heart; he saw the Ability of Allaah (Azza wa
Jall) with his own eyes.

Zakariya contemplated two matters at that time:

• To have a righteous son, who has a high position with his Lord
• Certainty in Allaah’s (Azza wa Jall) Ability to respond to him in a similar way that He
(Azza wa Jall) responded to Maryam; to grant him, how He (Azza wa Jall) granted
Maryam

When he reached that level of certainty, the act of worship (Du’aa) was what came out. It is
because Du’aa is connected strongly to the Tasbeeh. The Musabbih (who remembers his Lord) is
thinking and expecting good from his Lord.

Having good thoughts of Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is the motive to make Du’aa. Zakariya’s good
thoughts of Allaah (Azza wa Jall) made him invoke Allaah (Azza wa Jall) for offspring. The
 37

Musabbih knows that nothing is impossible for Allaah (Azza wa Jall). Therefore, one should
always check his certainty in Allaah (Azza wa Jall).

‫( هب‬Habb) because Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is ‫( الوهاب‬Al-Wahhab) and children are considered
Hibah, i.e. a gift from Allaah (Azza wa Jall). One benefits from righteous children in this world
and in the Hereafter. Whatever good deed a righteous child does will be on his parents’ scale.
The child will be invoking and asking forgiveness for his parents until they elevate in ranks in
Paradise. And when the parents are elevated in Jannah, then because of His (Azza wa Jall)
generosity and bounty, He will elevate the grade of the child to be with his or her parents in
Jannah. One should never think that his Du’aa for his parents is mere benevolence for them, it is
also a benefit for the children.

‫ – سميع الدعاء‬Allaah (Azza wa Jall) hears and responds to the Du’aa. He (Azza wa Jall) will never
disappoint us, He (Azza wa Jall) always responds to our Du’aa.

َ
َ‫كل ِ َم ٍة مِن‬ ٌۢ ً َ ُ ٰ َ ْ َ َ ُ َ ُ َ َّ َّ َ َ ْ ْ َ ُ ٓ َ َ ُ َ ُ َ ٰٓ َ َ ْ ُ ْ َ َ َ
ِ ‫اب أن ٱَّلل يب ِْشك بِيحَي مصدِقا ب‬ ِ ‫فنادته ٱلملـئِكة وهو قائِم يص ِىل ِِف ٱل ِمحر‬
َّ ‫ورا َونَب ًيا م َِن‬
َ ‫ٱلص ٰـلِح‬
‫ني‬
َّ
ً ‫ٱَّللِ َو َسي ًدا َو َح ُص‬
ِ ِ ِ
So the angels called him while he was standing in prayer in the chamber, "Indeed, Allaah
gives you good tidings of Yahya [John (‘Alayhis-salaam)], confirming a Word from Allaah and
[who will be] honorable, abstaining [from women], and a Prophet from among the righteous."
[Surat Aal-‘Imran (3:39)]

Allaah (Azza wa Jall) responds to the person who invokes Him (Azza wa Jall) at the right time.
There may occur many acts of worship between the Du’aa and the response to the Du’aa.
In the time between the Du’aa of Zakariya and the response from the angels, Zakariya was
performing acts of worship and purifying his soul until his status was elevated with Allaah
(Azza wa Jall).

This period of waiting for relief is called ‫( انتظار الفرج‬Intidhaar Al-Faraj). Allaah (Azza wa Jall) is in
no need to prevent a person from what he wants, but He (Azza wa Jall) wants him to purify his
soul during that time of waiting. He (Azza wa Jall) wants to elevate one’s ranks in Paradise. One
needs to struggle against himself, pray Qiyam al-Layl, stop committing sins, etc., waiting for
relief from Allaah (Azza wa Jall). Know that He (Azza wa Jall) will respond at the right time, and
when the response is delayed, one should think good of Allaah (Azza wa Jall).

Descriptions of Yahya:

1. ‫ – مصدقا بكلمة من هللا‬he is believing in the word from Allaah (Azza wa Jall), i.e. believing in
‘Eesa (‘Alayhis-salaam), the son of Maryam. He will affirm and assure his belief in ‘Eesa
being the son of Maryam and not the son of God, and ‘Eesa was created by a word from
Allaah – “Be” and he was.
2. ‫ – سيدا‬a noble leader; wise pious man
Interpreters said a man noble in behavior and piety, with good, beautiful, perfect
characteristics. Yahya will be elevated to be a noble leader and people will come to him
seeking advice. The foremost characteristic that the interpreters stated about Yahya is that
he was Haleem, patient, knowledgeable, worshipped Allaah (Azza wa Jall), was fearful of
Him (Azza wa Jall), and generous. Anyone who has these characteristics, Allaah (Azza wa
Jall) will make him a leader, and the people will go to him for advice, asking him for
guidance.
 38

3. ‫ – حصر – حصورا‬Allaah (Azza wa Jall) gave him control over his sexual desire. It doesn’t
mean he won’t marry a woman; he was just able to control his desires.
4. ‫ – نبيا من الصالحين‬Prophet from among the righteous

Zakariya was patient and this is the result of being patient and not despairing of Allaah’s (Azza
wa Jall) mercy.

Zakariya invoked for an offspring, because he was concerned with who would teach the Bani
Israel after he died. This should be one’s concern when invoking Allaah (Azza wa Jall). One
needs to think good of Allaah (Azza wa Jall) and never despair of His (Azza wa Jall) mercy, He
will give us what we have invoked for.