ah, i see...u r behind the trend B) u learn fast enough no doubt...

Bro, you're my brother in Islam, and I respect you greatly.

But I have no idea what you just said.

Shaykh Saud Ash-Shuraim

First Khutbah:



O Muslims! As the years have passed, various groups of people have discussed a very important issue which many communities have in common. People from all walks of life with different interests have discussed the positive and negative aspects of this issue, because it is a very important topic. Many people have commented on this through various means such as magazines, mosques, clubs and other media, and from many different points of view.



This issue, O slaves of Allaah, is that of summer or yearly vacations, which has become an indispensable event for many people. All nations agree that this event has become a part of our lives and cannot be ignored. It has imposed itself to be a part of a fixed yearly plan, and in most cases it is unorganised and poorly planned, despite the fact that people feel that it is a necessity.



When people think of their vacation, they do not seem to have the proper objectives, and their plans seem to lack the limitations of time and place, let alone the adherence to the Islamic guidelines that should define what can and cannot be done during them.



Only an arrogant or ignorant person would deny the fact that people need to rest after long periods of hard work, and that they need to relax after stress. Islaam does not oblige people to make all their words as those of the remembrance of Allaah, nor to make all their time be occupied with acts of worship. Rather, Islaam has permitted rest and relaxation within defined limits. As a mater of fact, when a companion of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam by the name of Handhalah Ibn ‘Aamir, may Allaah be pleased with him, came to the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam complaining that the strength and level of his Eemaan decreased when he returned home and played with his wife and children (as opposed to the time when he was with the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam). The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam replied to this by saying: “A time for this and a time for that” (Bukhaari & Muslim) which means an hour for worship and increasing ones Eemaan, and an hour for living ones life within the limits and boundaries of Islaam, which would also help one increase their Eemaan.



Ibn ‘Abdul-Barr, may Allaah have mercy upon him, narrated that ‘Ali Ibn Abu Taalib, may Allaah be pleased with him, said: "Relax your hearts and find some means of entertainment for them, because they become apathetic just as bodies get tired."



Ibn Al-Jawzi, may Allaah have mercy upon him, said: "I have observed that man has shouldered many difficult responsibilities and obligations. Amongst the heaviest of burdens is controlling himself and persevering through that which he likes and dislikes, and it seems to me that the correct thing to do is interrupt that with something that entertains."



This is how we should understand mixing seriousness with amusement and hard work with relaxation, but there are important questions regarding the behaviour of many Muslims during vacations that must be asked. How far does amusement go during vacations? What is the ideal way of utilising our time and maintaining our priorities? What should be our real understanding of vacationing? Is it too much sleep? Is it holding expensive and extravagant weddings? Is it switching days into nights and nights into days? Or is excessive TV and internet viewing?



These are questions which come from the heart of every believing man and woman, who have a conscience and are deeply concerned by the manner in which our youth are spending their time and utilising their health.



This topic requires a detailed research, so that objectives can be set for the fruitful utilisation of time, and so that limits can be set for people so that they remain within Islamic boundaries. Such a research can be conducted by studying all available entertainment programs and evaluating their pros and cons, and by establishing a strong link between them, Islamic guidelines and people’s customs and traditions; This could be in the form of a study that finds inventive ways of accomplishing relaxation, entertainment and other benefits along with the pleasure of Allaah during peoples vacations, and which analyses people’s actions and reactions based on Islaam, in light of people’s interests and hobbies. This would be a study that discovers the benefits that vacations give, such as reviving people, energising them and increasing their productivity, which will reflect on their communities and benefit them in this life and the Hereafter.



O Muslims! In order to recognise mature and responsible communities, who are concerned about their individuals and the utilisation of the wasted human resources within their ranks, we must observe what their stance is regarding vacations and holiday periods, as well as the serious researches that they conduct in order to find solutions for the negative and unsavoury aspects of vacations.



Indeed if we were to attempt to go into detail about the negative practices that take place during vacations in many of our communities, it would take too long a time, but we will mention just a few to give an idea about what takes place. It is best to be clear and honest about these vacations which in many cases stray away from the teachings and boundaries of Islaam.



One of the most dispraised practices during vacations is when people switch their days into nights and vice versa; people stay up all night with useless talk and incorrect behaviour. Sometimes this even involves sinful words and actions. Some people spend their nights dancing or listening to music, and then when the day comes they spend it sleeping, heedless of the remembrance of Allaah, let alone in His worship. Such practices make people heedless of the fact that Allaah made nights to rest in and days for working, and that the alternation of the day and night is one of the signs of the greatness of Allaah. In fact, when Allaah wanted to give the disbelievers an example of His might and power He mentioned the alternation of the day and night, as He says that which translates as: “Say: 'Have you considered: if Allaah should make for you the night continuous until the Day of Resurrection, what deity other than Allaah could bring you light? Then will you not hear?' Say: 'Have you considered: if Allaah should make for you the day continuous until the Day of Resurrection, what deity other than Allaah could bring you a night in which you may rest? Then will you not see?' And out of His Mercy He made for you the night and the day that you may rest therein and [by day] seek from His bounty and [that] perhaps you will be grateful.” (Al-Qasas: 71-73).



Slaves of Allaah! From among the incorrect practices which frequently occur during vacations and for which people in general and women in particular long for, are the evil practices which occur during weddings. In preparation for such events people spend excessive amounts of money and concentrate all their efforts in this, they spend ridiculous amounts on renting the halls where the event is to be held and boast to others about doing so. They go to ridiculous lengths in shopping for the event, and women expose their adornment during these times. All of this happens prior to the wedding, as well as huge amounts of money spent on clothes, food and drinks – solely for the purpose of boasting and showing off. Dowries are so high that it seems as if many couples are living in separate eras, the husband in one which has passed and the wife in one which is yet to come, so how can these two eras be reconciled?



Some young men barely have enough to live on, while the parents of the young ladies they wish to marry spend wastefully; some young men just wish to get married while the parents of the young ladies they wish to get married to simply wish to boast. Abu Hurayrah, may Allaah be pleased with him, narrated that a man came to the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam seeking assistance and said: "I have married a woman from the Ansaar." The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam replied: “How much did you pay? (i.e., as dowry)” the man replied: "One hundred and sixty silver coins" the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said: “One hundred and sixty silver coins! It is as though some of you dig silver out from a mountain! - I have nothing to give you” (Muslim).



Another evil practice which is widespread during vacations is the satellite television channels which prepare programs especially for the summer vacation. They prepare for these just as people prepare to face an enemy; they compete in broadcasting the most seductive programs which destroy chastity and persevere in this so that the noble manners which people might have acquired during the year are destroyed in a very short amount of time. These channels act like a destructive hammer which destroys any trace of morality that people may have in their hearts; channels which are administered by people with no conscience that would have made them distinguish between that which is good and that which is shameless. The effect of these channels is that they eradicate the strong community bonds that exist from their roots regardless of whether we realise this or not. Moreover, some of what these channels are broadcasting may be jeopardising the social stability and security that we currently enjoy.



Something that we must realise is that those who steal people’s minds and command their ideology are no less evil than those who steal money; both types of thieves cause havoc and endanger security and stability.



We should know that it is the media that controls the minds of people and communities; it is through this that people’s ideologies are formed. The media is what should propagate issues that are of concern to the Muslims and support them, or, it could be the cause for facts to be altered or caused to disappear. If anyone wishes to know whether a nation is serious or careless, all they have to do is observe their media and the issues that it regards as important, because this is what will affect its community, both in a positive and negative manner.



Slaves of Allaah! Fear Allaah during your summer vacations and stay far away from the satanic gatherings which lead people to destruction. Allaah says that which translates as: “And do not be like she who untwisted her spun thread after it was strong … ” (An-Nahl: 92).



Second Khutbah:



There are two other important issues which are not any less significant than what has already been mentioned regarding evil practices during vacations, and these are travelling to the lands of the disbelievers and to Muslim countries which are in essence not much different from the disbelieving countries.



It is a well known fact that anybody who is serious and fears their Lord, Who has bestowed His bounties upon him, would never spend anything on that which would result in his destruction. On the other hand, there are others who have gone to ridiculous extremes in their entertainment and have begun to think that they are imprisoned in their homes and countries. They have slighted things which they used to consider as serious and vital, and this has got to the point where these people have become accustomed to vacationing with no apparent consideration of whether this entails seeing shameless things which Allaah has prohibited, such as nudity and other disgusting matters.



Moreover, some committed practicing Muslims who are exposed to this become weaker in performing their obligatory duties, or perform them but accompanied by shame and embarrassment, as if they are stealing something; they may offer their prayers in the midst of loud music, which would destroy their tranquillity and concentration.



Abu Haamid Al-Ghazaali, may Allaah have mercy upon him, mentioned some types of vacationing by saying: "Continuous vacationing and entertainment destroy the heart. Some people wish for nothing except to boast and have a fine reputation, which leads them to resemble the people of great disobedience in the way they talk, their habits, the way they perform some acts of worship and their manners. They think highly of themselves and think they are doing well. How foolish is the one who cannot differentiate between being healthy and a having a wound which is swollen; such people are despised by Allaah, because Allaah hates unutilised youth, and the only thing which led such people to this type of vacationing is unutilised youth".



Ibn Al-Jawzi, may Allaah have mercy upon him, said: "If travelling through the land is not for the purpose of seeking knowledge or propagating Islaam, then it is prohibited."



Imaam Ahmad, may Allaah have mercy upon him, said: "Travelling (for entertainment) is not recommended in Islaam nor was it the practice of the Prophets and the righteous, because it distracts the heart" and when he was asked once about amusement, he, may Allaah have mercy upon him replied: "No, rather, amusement is attained by frequently going to the mosque."



Slaves of Allaah! Fear Allaah regarding your vacations and take a serious stance towards finding the proper way of utilising and preserving your time. In order to realise the importance of this issue, we must know that everybody will have to answer five questions, which were mentioned by the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. Abu Barzah, may Allaah be pleased with him: narrated that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said: “No person’s feet will be able to move on the Day of Resurrection until he is asked about five things: how he spent his life; how he utilised his youth; how he earned his wealth and how he spent it; and what he did with his knowledge” (Tirmidhi).

Saud Ash-Shuraim

First Khutbah



O people! I advise you all and myself to fear Allaah and be pious because that is the source of might, honour and security in this life, and the way to salvation on the Day of Resurrection, as Allaah says that which translates as: “And there is none of you except he will come to it. [i.e., Hell] This is upon your Lord an inevitability decreed. Then We will save those who feared Allaah and leave the wrongdoers within it, on their knees.” (Maryam: 71-72).



Slaves of Allaah! If one takes a just and unbiased look at the current condition of mankind in general and the Muslims in particular, in an era where technology is at its most advanced and civilization is at its most developed in economic, medical, military and informational terms, they will find that all this worldly knowledge, information and development is inherently deficient and inept because it cannot produce a single human being who realises the reason for his creation.



There is no doubt that this is a fact, otherwise, how can one explain the spread of ignorance and illiteracy in the era of knowledge and technology? Why is there so much poverty at a time of abundant resources? Why is unemployment overwhelming in an era of mass production and manufacturing? Why do some international researchers who specialise in community affairs call this era an era of grief and depression after they called the previous one an era of anxiety?



We do not need many evidences to prove that we are suffering from the spread of this phenomenon, the phenomenon of grief and depression.



Slaves of Allaah! This is the destructive problem of our time and it is the most widespread amongst all the psychological diseases in the world. It is continually on the increase. An accurate International survey affirms that ten percent of the world's population suffers from it, including the Muslim countries, which means that hundreds of millions of people are living through this bitter reality. Moreover, there is proof that this phenomenon is starting at a younger age as time goes by and that it affects twice as many females as males. This has resulted from the fact that women are not practicing their natural role in the community due to them shouldering responsibilities which they were forced to, leading them to leave the role of raising their children to maids and day care centres.



The number of suicides resulting from grief and depression has exceeded eight hundred thousand annually, and this is beside the fact that eighty percent of those who suffer from it do not see doctors in order to report or solve the problem.



This is not a new phenomenon and its causes are not mysterious, rather it is the natural and expected result when people become obsessed by gathering and collecting worldly belongings and when people’s concerns become purely materialistic. Therefore, this problem differs from one country or community to another and is dependent on the weakness of people’s belief in Allaah, His angels, His Books, His Messengers, The Last Day and the divine decree. This is in addition to people’s behaviour and the degree of security, justice and love between the people.



This phenomenon has interested scholars of various disciplines, medical doctors, writers and journalists who have studied and addressed this problem. In many cases the articles written have been of little benefit, and as much as people have addressed this problem, no one seems to have approached it correctly. The only correct and acceptable way of curing and solving this problem is if its diagnosis is founded on scientific treatment which is based on authentic laboratory tests and reports conducted by trustworthy specialists who apply the principles of Islaam to all their tests and stay away from the purely materialistic bias which fails to attach any value to the spiritual side of the problem.



Grief is a something natural that humans feel due to their common problems, it is when it increases and overwhelms a person that it becomes what is known as depression. This is a condition that is considered to be at the highest level of grief and results in a person becoming controlled and dominated by their inner misery, the result of which is despair and loss of happiness. It is usually accompanied with headaches, bone problems, ulcers and other symptoms; it also makes a person lose their taste of joy and happiness. The results of depression include laziness, loss of energy and hatred of life which makes some people feel that suicide is the only solution. Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allaah have mercy upon him, said: "four things destroy the body: anxiety, grief, hunger and sleeping late."



Applying medical treatment with a religious foundation, extracted from the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam is vital because it is the most perfect and safest form of treatment, especially when one compares this to the hundreds of medications and tranquilizers which have flooded the market and which the human body becomes addicted to, thereby descending into a worse and more serious condition than depression.



Some medical reports state that swimming and frequently doing house work is a solution for depression, but it is ludicrous to imagine that depressed people will always remain in swimming pools or be constantly doing housework. On the other hand, it is accepted that a person can easily be remembering Allaah, glorifying him and seeking His forgiveness at all times, whether he is standing, sitting or lying down. This is how Allaah described the people of understanding when He says that which translates as: “[Those] Who remember Allaah while standing or sitting or [lying] on their sides and give thought to the creation of the heavens and the earth, [saying]: 'Our Lord! You did not create this aimlessly; exalted are You [above such a thing]; then protect us from the punishment of the Fire'”. (Aal ‘Imraan: 190-191). Therefore, we can see the importance of spiritual treatment to these problems, although there is no doubt that medication is also necessary, but the point is that we must not ignore the spiritual treatments that exist for these problems.



One may well ask: we realise that these problems exist, but what are the reasons behind them and what is the solution?



The answer is that in some cases, there are purely medical reasons behind depression which cannot be ignored, the most common being the frequent consumption of medication, drugs and alcohol. This leads to a person becoming addicted to them and subsequently feeling that their life is pointless without them. This results in a chemical imbalance within the brain which causes depression. Another reason why depression takes place is due to heredity, when one inherits them through their genes. We shall concentrate on the some of the reasons why depression exists which have been specifically addressed by Islaam and dispraised and warned against it in many verses of the Qur’aan and in various Ahaadeeth.



In many Qur'aanic verses and Ahaadeeth it is mentioned that the heart which is heedless of the remembrance of Allaah, which is reflected by the heedlessness of the tongue is an indication of grief and misery for the person who is afflicted by this. Allaah says that which translates as: “And whoever turns away from My remembrance – Indeed, he will have a depressed [i.e., difficult] life, and We will gather [i.e., raise] him on the Day of Resurrection blind.” (Taa Haa: 124). Also, it is also mentioned in the Sunnah that sins lead to depression, as stated in the book of Imaam Ahmad, may Allaah have mercy upon him, that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said, “If a slave’s sins increase and he does not have enough good deeds which would wipe these out, then Allaah will afflict him with grief and sorrow in order to wipe them out”.



Being anxious and concerned about the future and the lack of belief in divine decree and pre-destination is another cause of this problem. Some people worry about what the future holds for them and fear being incapable of dealing with problems, disasters and calamities, if and when they arrive. One finds that such people are in such a frenzy at times of tribulation that if they could find refuge in a cave or other remote and concealed place, they would rush like mad to get to it.



Bad dreams caused by Satan, who instils sorrow in a person, also play an important role the cause of depression. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam informed us that Satan comes to people as they sleep and makes them see things which results in them feeling grief and sorrow. This is why we see many people who suffer from depression not being able to sleep properly.



Other reasons that lead to depression are debts which a person cannot repay, cowardliness at the time of fear and stinginess whilst aggressively collecting wealth.



The Proof that debts cause grief and anxiety lies in the Hadeeth where the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam went into the mosque one day and found Abu Umaamah, may Allaah be pleased with him, and said: “O Abu Umaamah! Why do I see you sitting in the mosque when it is not prayer time?” Abu Umaamah, may Allaah be pleased with him, replied: "It is due to Anxiety and grief, which resulted from debts that I owe." So the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said: “Shall I teach words which will take away your grief and by which Allaah will help you repay your debts, if you were to say them?” Abu Umaamah, may Allaah be pleased with him replied: "Yes! O Messenger of Allaah." Thereupon, the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said: “Every morning and every evening say, O Allah! I seek refuge in you from anxiety and grief, weakness and laziness, miserliness and cowardliness, the burden of debts and from being over powered by men." After this, Abu Umaamah, may Allaah be pleased with him, commented that: "I did this and Allaah relieved my sorrow and anxiety and helped me repay my debts."



These were some reasons behind depression, and through these one can clearly see the connection between depression and straying away from the guidance and the path of Allaah, committing that which Islaam has prohibited, and being attached to worldly matters. Allaah says that which translates as: “So whoever Allaah wants to guide – He expands his breast to [contain] Islaam; and whoever He wants to misguide – He makes his breast tight and constricted as though he were climbing into the sky. Thus does Allaah place defilement upon those who do not believe.” (Al-An’aam: 125).



Second Khutbah



O people! In order to address this topic in a comprehensive manner we must briefly point out some of the best ways of curing this problem, based on the Islamic texts in addition to the testimony of eminent and specialised medical doctors:



· The first and most important is the obligation of the Muslim nation of performing Jihaad for the sake of Allaah, propagating it and inviting people to perform it, and warning against being inclined towards this life and its pleasures. This is the way to a prosperous and tranquil heart, and a means of getting rid of grief and misery. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said: “When people become stingy, deal with ‘Eenah (a form of Ribaa), follow their cattle and become satisfied with agriculture (i.e., become attached to agriculture and commerce) then Allaah will afflict them with humiliation until they return to their religion”. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam also said, “Perform Jihaad because it is one of the gates that lead to Paradise, and a way through which Allaah relieves people from anxiety and grief”.

· The correct understanding and belief in divine decree and pre-destiny is another way to treat this problem. When a person believes that there was no way that he could have escaped whatever befell him and that all matters are in the Hands of Allaah, including ones provisions and death, and that no one will die until he consumes all his decreed provision and until he lives for the whole amount of time that was given to him, then he will definitely rely on Allaah completely without any worry or grief and will face all his problems with strength and resolution. Also, if people acknowledge that whatever Allaah has decreed resulted from His perfect wisdom, then they will be content with whatever He decrees. One who is discontent will become an easy victim for grief, disease and following base desires. Al-Hasan, may Allaah have mercy upon him, was asked how he attained his good manners, he replied: "From being content with the decree of Allaah". Abu Haatim, may Allaah have mercy upon him, reported that some of the Salaf said regarding being content: "There is no rank higher or mightier than being content. It is the peak of loving Allaah". This is exactly why Prophet Zakiryaa, peace be upon him, supplicated to Allaah to grant this to his son, as Allaah says that which translates as: “…And make him, my Lord, pleasing [to You]."(Maryam: 6). Contentment can only be established when the slave has firmly in his mind the conviction that whatever Allaah decrees results from His wisdom. Allaah provides and deprives for a wise reason, and this is the only thing that will make a person feel at ease during times of hardships. This also applies during times of prosperity, as Allaah informs us in the Qur’aan about Prophet Sulaymaan, peace be upon him, with that which translates as: “…'This is from the favour of my Lord to test me whether I will be grateful or ungrateful. And whoever is grateful – his gratitude is only for the [benefit of] himself. And whoever is ungrateful – then indeed, my Lord is free of need and Generous.' (An-Naml:40). This is also evident in the saying of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam when his son Ibraaheem died: “The eyes cry tears, and the heart becomes sad, but we will not say that which will bring the wrath of our Lord. If it was not a true promise, and that we will meet in an appointed time, and that the last will eventually follow (die) after the first, then we would have cried hard for your death (O Ibraaheem). Indeed we are saddened by your departure” (Al-Bayhaqi & Ibn Maajah). By saying this, the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam meant that had he not known that there was a wisdom from Allaah behind taking his son, he would have extremely been saddened.

· Extra prostration and glorification of Allaah and worship in general takes away grief. Allaah says that which translates as: “…And We already know that your breast is constrained by what they say. So exalt [Allaah] with praise of your Lord and be of those who prostrate [to Him]. And worship your Lord until there comes to you the certainty [i.e., death].” (Al-Hijr: 97-99). Whenever the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam felt grief or worry, he would rush to prayer. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said: “Whoever continuously asks forgiveness from Allaah, then Allaah will make a way out for him from all his worries, and will provide him from means he never would have expected”.

· The dish of Talbeenah is another relief from grief and anxiety, as narrated by ‘Aa’ishah, may Allaah be pleased with her, that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said: “Talbeenah relieves a person’s heart from anxiety and some of its grief” (Bukhaari & Muslim). Talbeenah is a natural medicine which is prepared by boiling wheat or barley with either honey or milk, or both of them.

· The final cure is that which the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam advised us with when he said: “Allaah will relieve any slave who is afflicted with grief and anxiety from his anxiety and replace his grief with happiness if he says: 'O Allaah! I am Your servant, son of Your servant, son of Your maidservant, my forelock is in Your hand, Your command over me is forever executed and Your decree over me is just. I ask You by every name belonging to You which You named Yourself with, or revealed in Your Book, or You taught to any of Your creation, or You have preserved in the knowledge of the unseen with You, that You make the Qur’aan the life of my heart and the light of my chest, and a departure for my sorrow and a release for my anxiety. O Allaah! Teach me from it that which I am ignorant of and remind me with it that which I was made to forget; I ask You by Your mercy, for You are the Most Merciful, to grant me its recitation during the hours of night and day in the form which pleases You'” . The people asked: "O Prophet of Allaah! Should we learn (i.e., memorize) these words’. He sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam replied: “Yes! Everyone who hears this should memorise it”.



What I have mentioned are some helpful ways of curing the sickness of depression.

Assalamu alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh

All Sermons by Sheikh Saud Ash-Shuraim will posted in this thread InshaAllah

Summary

1) A warning against the imitation of disbelievers
2) Forms of imitating the disbelievers
3) An appeal to return to the Qur’aan and Sunnah
4) The positive response of some Muslim women towards invitations by disbelievers to imitate them

First Khutbah

I advise you, as well as myself, to fear Allaah in times of prosperity and misfortune, in secret and in public: "O mankind! Worship your Lord, who created you and those before you, that you may become righteous." (Al Baqarah: 21)

O people! When a person meditates upon the histories of past nations and populations, he will be instantly amazed at the revolutions and transformations they went through. For instance, there was a pioneering nation (i.e., the Muslim nation) which led the world for many centuries but then, it faltered and lost its leading role; it fell in the midst of blind imitation and followed the paths of other nations in terms of manners and beliefs. Once it was at the acme of development and reached the highest level of power and glory, but it later fell to the lowest point and was afflicted with misery. It died after it had been living, deteriorated after it was once flourishing and withered after it was blossoming. It was the nation that discovered the sources of knowledge and developed the Islaamic civilization and sciences, which the West later obtained significantly, without having to exert the least of efforts. Thus it seems as if the gates towards progress had been shut off for the Muslims as they turned into artificial consumers of the Western civilization. They even began to adopt certain features of it, which were originally theirs but had been stolen away from them.

O Muslims! When a Muslim blindly imitates the West, he turns into a loyal supporter of their beliefs and customs; he is like one who tries to reform something but spoils it while he is unaware. He is just like a defeated follower, like a baby who bites and severs his mother's breast while it is in his mouth. Such a person does not know that blind copying of the West involves hidden hazards and that our rights, honour and dignity are violated by such imitation and imbecilic pride.

O Muslims! The Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam said: "You will imitate the nations before you very closely to the extent that if they went into a lizard's hole, you would enter it as well” his companions, may Allaah be pleased with them, inquired: “(Do you mean) the Jews and Christians, O Messenger of Allaah?” He sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam replied: "Who else?” (Bukhaari & Muslim)

The Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam also said: "The Day of Judgment will not come until my Nation closely imitates the nations before them.” It was asked: “Like the Persians and Romans, Messenger of Allaah?” He sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam replied: "Who are the nations (I could mean) except those?” (Bukhaari)

The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam foretold that some of his nation will imitate the People of the Book, namely the Jews and Christians, as well as other non-Arabs, namely the Persians and Romans. Allaah says that which means: "[You disbelievers are] like those before you; they were stronger than you in power and more abundant in wealth and children. They enjoyed their portion [of worldly enjoyment], and you have enjoyed your portion as those before you enjoyed their portion, and you have engaged [in vanities] like that in which they engaged…" (At-Tawbah: 69)

Ibn ‘Abbaas, may Allaah be pleased with him, commented on this verse by saying: “These are the Children of Israel that we will imitate.” Ibn Mas’ood, may Allaah be pleased with him, also said in this regard: “You are closely similar to the Children of Israel as far as outside appearance and manners are concerned, but I do not know whether you will worship the calf (as they did) or not.”

O servants of Allaah! The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam used to prohibit imitating other nations. It is worth mentioning that these traditions do not indicate that the entire Muslim nation will commit this sin as he sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam also foretold that a group of his nation will continue to stick to the Straight Path until the Day of Judgment.

The Muslims constitute the most guided and well-mannered nation in this life; and on the Day of Judgment Allaah will make them witnesses over all other nations as He says that which means: "And thus We have made you a median [i.e., just] community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you…" (Al-Baqarah: 143)

Indeed, this is a very prestigious position. How is it, then, that Muslims imitate others in their customs, traditions and feasts? The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam even forbade the Muslims from acquiring religious information from the People of the Book; once, ‘Umar ibn Al-Khattaab, may Allaah be pleased with him, was reading some parts of one of the scriptures of the People of the Book to the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, so he got angry and said: "I have conveyed to you a clear religion. Do not ask them (the People of the Book) about anything, for they may tell you the truth while you believe them or they may lie and you might believe them. I swear by Him in Whose Hands is my soul, if Moosaa was alive, he would not have any choice but to follow me.” (Ahmad & Ibn Abi Shaybah)

Allaah made human beings and all other creatures accustomed to interacting with their similar counterparts. When the degree of similarity increases, such interaction and hence imitation in morals and characteristics becomes more complete, until it is hardly possible to distinguish between them. Accordingly, human beings are affected by each other and acquire each other's traits through cohabitation and imitation. It is also known that if a human being stays in the company of a certain type of animal, he would pick up some of its features; that is why, for example, those who tend camels are known for their pride and arrogance, while shepherds are known to be humble and calm, whereas those who raise both camels and mules acquire some of the bad attributes of both. Similarly, a domestic animal acquires some human characteristics, such as the ability to live with others.

Furthermore, when a person puts on the clothes usually worn by scholars, he may feel himself as somehow closer to them, because similarity and imitation in outward appearance leads to resemblance in inward characteristics such as personal characteristics and morals, as is witnessed in reality and is confirmed by Islaamic jurisprudence and common sense. In the old times, it was said: ‘Birds of a feather flock together’; this is a realistic proverb which conforms to the manner in which Allaah has formed His creation. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam spoke the truth when he said: "Whoever imitates a people is one of them." (Ahmad & Abu Dawood)

Shaykh Al-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allaah have mercy on him, said: “We have seen that the degree of polytheism is less in those Jews and Christians who reside with Muslims, and that the degree of faith in the Muslims who have dealt extensively with the Jews and Christians is lesser than that of the pious Muslims.”

O servants of Allaah! Imitating polytheists and atheists in their clothing, customs, rules, politics and economics has become widespread among many Muslims to a very large extent, so much so that the one who blindly imitates and tries to Westernize might even be respected by the foolish masses and the youth, including the rich, intellectuals and even the poor, who are attracted to such a person. Woe to imitation and subordination! What weighty and oppressive constraints they have! What a dark path theirs is! What a great loss for whoever follows them!

Yes, woe to imitating and following the West! It has trapped some Muslim generations in the dark, narrow prisons of subordination and dependence, and prevented them from thinking, meditating and heading for glory. It has blocked the means to the real happiness of their souls.

Woe to imitation and dependence! They are obstacles for the intellects and prevent everything that may revive them.

The Muslim Nation should lead, not be led; others should depend on us and not the reverse. Our Nation should not be deceived by the artificial adornments possessed by some devastated people, as Allaah says that which means: "And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more lasting." (Taa-Haa: 131)

The Western civilization is like a mirage, which, when seen from a distance is like a large sea, but it is as Allaah says which means: "But the disbelievers – their deeds are like a mirage in a lowland which a thirsty one thinks is water until, when he comes to it, he finds it is nothing but finds Allaah before him, and He will pay him in full his due; and Allaah is swift in account." (An-Noor: 39)

The weak and ignorant Muslims, who try to remodel the principles of our nation through imitation, should know that even though such temporal morals may ruin some of the deeply rooted ones, they will never remain or become innate. If some people believe that our nation must change its ways for development, then let it be known that our resorting to the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam is the best means for change. Allaah says that which means: "…Indeed, Allaah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves. And when Allaah intends for a people ill, there is no repelling it. And there is not for them besides Him any patron." (Ar-Ra`d: 11)

If we embrace the means to be powerful, stick to deep-rooted principles such as strong will, piety, courage and Islaamic zeal and adhere to our distinctive code of life which indicates that we are religious and ethical people, what harm would we get from it? Are these not the true Islaamic morals? Are there any other solid foundations for progress besides them? Allaah says that which means: "[And say, ‘Ours is] the religion of Allaah. And who is better than Allaah in [ordaining] religion? And we are worshippers of Him’” (Al-Baqarah: 138) and also: "[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’aan] explained in detail?’…" (Al-An’aam: 114)

However, if we are to adopt foreign customs and traditions alien to our religion, from the West, we should remember that Islaam is Islaam and polytheism is polytheism, and that they live in one hemisphere and we live in another. We were the masters before we assumed these Western traditions that ruined the free Muslim nation – its men and especially its women, who have rushed after the unknown in a breathless attempt to imitate the West. They are amazed by the eye-catching products of its industries and have followed its disgraceful women to the extent that their clothes became almost the same as those of Western models. When you see any Muslim woman wearing a dress barely covering her private parts, you should know that this is an example of their kind of clothing. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said about such women: "I have seen none lacking in common sense and failing in religion and (at the same time) robbing the wisdom of wise men, besides you (women).” (Bukhaari & Muslim)

This is why when Allaah says that which means: "…and amended for him [i.e., Zakariyya] his wife…” (Al-Anbiyaa’: 90) it denotes that He thereby bestowed much grace upon Zakariyya, peace be upon him: He also says which means, "…So righteous women are devoutly obedient, guarding in [the husband's] absence what Allaah would have them guard…" (An-Nisaa’: 34)

O Muslims! The restrictions imposed by our religion on the human being are not meant to torture or deprive him from the pleasures of this life. Rather, their aim is to elevate him from mere animalism to complete humanity. Thus, a Muslim will become capable of overcoming subservience and dependence, and his faith and piety will overpower animalistic lusts.

Whenever a society ignores such restrictions or belittles them, it jeopardizes and opens itself to serious problems and positions itself on the brink of destruction, as Allaah says that which means: "…And whoever transgresses the limits of Allaah – it is those who are the wrongdoers [i.e., the unjust]” (Al-Baqarah: 229) and also: "…And who is more astray than one who follows his desire without guidance from Allaah? Indeed, Allaah does not guide the wrongdoing people." (Al-Qasas: 50)

Second Khutbah

Our Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam prohibited whatever acts lead to the imitation of the polytheists to such an extent that one of the Jews said about him: "This man does not wish to set aside any of our affairs until he acts in nonconformity with it." (Muslim)

It is also reported that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam forbade Muslims from offering prayers after dawn until the sun rises and following the afternoon prayer until sunset. He explained that the sun rises and sets between the horns of the devil and at this time, the polytheists prostrate before it. It is well-known that a believer never prostrates himself to anything except Allaah; most people may not even be aware that the sun rises and sets between the horns of the devil and that the polytheists prostrate before it, yet, the Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam commanded Muslims not to pray at this time so as not to imitate the polytheists in any way.

Imitating the People of the Book and the non-Arab polytheists will surely lead to some degree of affection towards them. For this reason also, imitation is prohibited in order to block the way before such love transpires and to prevent allegiance to them; this is aside from the legal evidences that prohibit such imitation.

It is plainly evident that some people who copy the polytheists in their clothes, manners, traditions or speak their language, harbour love and admiration for them. In this way, the polytheists succeed in disseminating ideas such as globalization and a universal religion which affect some sick-hearted Muslims; all of these aim at weakening the Muslim character and identity. Whenever a person objects to such ideas, he is labelled as an introvert, an isolationist and even a narrow-minded person alienated from this world and who should have died in his cradle.

Such people seem to ask why the bells of churches do not chime along with the minarets reverberating "Allaah is the Greatest." They ask why there are not many religions being practiced in the Arabian Peninsula, but they forget or seem to forget that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: "There must not be two religions in the Arabian Peninsula.” (Maalik & Ahmad)

Allaah says that which means: “And never will the Jews and the Christians approve of you until you follow their religion. Say: ‘Indeed, the guidance of Allaah is the [only] guidance.’ If you were to follow their desires after what has come to you of knowledge, you would have against Allaah no protector or helper.” (Al-Baqarah: 120)

He also says that which means: "They wish you would disbelieve as they disbelieved so you would be alike…” (An-Nisaa’: 89)

Salam
Jazakallah Khayr for the post
Wassalam

salam
i love that khutbah by SS, read it many times
jazakallah for sharing
wasalam

jizakillahu khair sis for the khutbah....