Improving your acts of worship

If we reflect upon the matter we will find that the one supplicating is sincere (and truthful) in his worship and he unites his heart in his supplication. There is nothing which preoccupies him from being earnest in his supplication and this is because he knows that his supplication being answered will definitely be accomplished.

Allah loves to be asked, and He encourages that in all things. He is angry with the one who does not ask of Him and He encourages His slaves to ask of Him.

This article is a commentry on the hadeeth regrading the levels of changing evil.

For many living in Western countries, Ramadan is passed daily with 9 to 5 jobs or school - nights where we may or may not go for Taraweeh. A peak at the TV (may Allah protect us) and the night is over. Back to work where all around us people are eating and drinking from crystal water fountains. Blink. Ramadan is over.

This article provides useful tips on how to avoid some common problems encountered in Ramadan. If followed, it would enable one to fast comfortably and enjoy fully the spiritual benefits of Ramadan.

Know, that in the fast (Sawm) is a special quality that is not found in anything else. And that is its close connection to Allah, such that He says: "The fast (Sawm) is for Me and I will reward it." [Sahîh al-Bukhârî and Muslim]. This connection is enough to show the high status of fasting.

Allâh has blessed His slaves with certain seasons of goodness, in which hasanât (rewards for good deeds) are multiplied, sayi’ât (bad deeds) are forgiven, people’s status is raised, the hearts of the believers turn to their Master, those who purify themselves attain success and those who corrupt themselves fail. One of the greatest acts of worship is fasting.

"Verily those who were given knowledge before it (the Qur'ân), when it is recited to them, they fall upon their faces in prostration, and they say, "Glorified is our Lord! Indeed the Promise of our Lord has been fulfilled." And they fall upon their faces weeping, and it (the Qur'ân) increases them in humility." [Sûratul-Isrâ' 17:107-109]

The primary cause of riyâ' is a weakness in Îmân. When a person does not have strong faith in Allâh, he will prefer the admiration of people over the pleasure of Allâh. This weakness in îmân causes a person to ignore the blessings and rewards of the Hereafter, and increases a person's desire for fame and prestige in this world.