Call upon Allah, Supplication - Demanding from Allah - Remembering Allah
= (AlDua' - AlIsti'anah BilLah - Thikr Allah)

Q: Why should humans call (beg earnestly) upon Allah?
A: Say why should my God care about you were it not for your calling upon (supplicating to) Him - (to disbelievers) so you have rejected (Allah's Commands) as lies then it (Hell punishment) will be obligatory (in the Other World).
Translation of: Ayah 77, Surat AlFurqan.(25:77)
Words: Ma Ya'ba' Rubbi = Why should my God care, Dua' = Calling upon, Kaththabtum = You rejected as lies, Yakoun = Will be, Lizama = Obligatory - A must.

Q: How did the call upon Allah save the life of the prophet Jonah (Yunus) when he disobeyed God by running away from his people who did not at the beginning listen to him?

A: And the whale (big fish) swallowed (= Iltaqamahu) him when he was blameworthy; And if only he was not from the glorifiers (of Allah)*; He would have stayed in its belly to the Day they will be raised up; So it (whale) threw him out on the barren land while he (Prophet Jonah) was feeling sick; And We (Allah) grew over him a pumpkin tree.
Translation of: Ayat 142 - 146, Surat AlSaffat.
* Glorifiers of Allah (= AlMusabiheen): Those who always remember Allah and glorify him. When in the whale's belly Prophet Jonah (= Yunus) continued his habit of glorifying Allah: He repeated: Glory to Allah, I was from the transgressors (unjust to Allah) = Subhanak Ini Kuntu Mina AlDhalimeen.
Words: Iltaqam = Swallowed, AlHout = Whale - Big fish, Maleem = Blameworthy - Blamable, Musabbiheen = Glorifiers, Labatha = Stayed, Batnihi = Its belly, Yubathoun = Raised up, Nabatha = Threw away, Saqeem = Feeling sick.

Q: Why should we repent and call upon Allah for forgiveness?
A: O people who have faith! Repent to Allah with an honest repentance so that your God might pardon your sins, and admit you in Gardesn (of Paradise) underneath which the rivers flow - the Day when Allah will not let down The Messenger (Muhammad) and those who have faith with him; Their light will run forward before them and on their right side; They say: Our God! Bring to completion our light for us and forgive us; You are Capable of everything.
Translation of: Ayah 8, Surat AlTahreem.
Words: Tubou = Repent (plural), Tawbah = Repentance, Nasouha = Honest (sin not to be repeated), Asa = Might, Yaghfir = Pardon, Yawm = Day, Yukhzi = Let down, AlNabi = The Messenger, Nooruhum = Their light, Ighfir = Pardon, Kadeer = Capable.

Q: Can a human being easily forget Allah's help and kindness to him?

A: And when harm afflicted man he called upon his God turning to Him in repentance then when He (Allah) bestowed His Blessing (Favour) upon him he forgot what he was before calling upon and he joined partner(s) with Allah to mislead from His (Allah's) Path - (command to Prophet Muhammad) say enjoy your disbelief for some time for you are certainly from the companions of Hell.
Translation of: Ayah 8, Surat AlZumar. (39:8)
Words: Massa = Afflicted - Touched, Dhur = Harm - Trouble, Da'a = Called upon, Muneeban Ilayhi = Turning to Him in repentance, Khawwala = Bestowed, Ni'mah = Blessing - Favour, Nasiya = He Forgot, Kana Yadou = Was Calling upon, Min Qabl = before, Andad = Partners, Yudhila = Mislead, Qul = Say, Tamata' = Enjoy, Qaleela = For some time, Ashab = Companions.

Q: If we are not granted what we want why we should not stop calling on Allah?

A: (Jacob = Prophet Yaqoub says) O my sons go out looking for Joseph (Prophet Yousuf) and his brother (Benjamin = Benyameen) and do not despair from the relief of Allah for no one despairs from the relief of Allah but the disbelieving people.
Translation of: Ayah 87, Surat Yusuf.
Words: Bunai = My sons, Ithhabou = Go, Tahasasou = Look for, Tayasou = Despair - Give up, Rawh (not Rouh) = Relief - Happiness after suffering, AlQawm AlKafiroun = The Disbelieving People.

Q: How does the calling on Allah affect the heart?

A: And those who have disbelieved say only if a Miraculous Sign (miracle)* was sent down to him (Prophet Muhammad) from his God.- say indeed Allah misguides** whom He wills and He guides to Himself whoever turns to Him in repentance; Those who believed and their hearts find tranquility by remembering Allah - well by remembering Allah hearts find tranquility.
Translation of: Ayat 27 - 28, Surat AlRa'd.
* Like miracles of some previous prophets.
** A demand for a miracle shows weak Faith. They do not show willingness to be guided so Allah leaves them to stray away from His Path. Words: Unzila = Was sent down, Ayah = Sign - Miracle, Yudhil = Misguides, Yahdi = Guides, Anab = Turns to Allah in repentance, Tat'ma'in = Find tranquility - Find satisfaction - Feel calm, Quloub = Hearts.

Q: Can Muslims ask Allah for forgives for their relatives who are polytheists or do not believe in Allah?
A: It was not right for the Prophet (Muhammad) and those who believed (in Allah) to ask Allah for forgiveness for the polytheists even if they were relatives after it became clear to them that they are companions of Hell;
And Abraham's (Prophet Ibraheem) asking Allah for forgiveness for his father was not except for a promise he had made to him so when it became clear to him that he is an enemy (disbeliever) to Allah Abraham acquitted himself from him indeed Abraham is certainly a sufferer with moaning sounds (Ah) - a great tolerant; And Allah was certainly not going to leave people to stray after He had guided* them until He makes clear to them what they should avoid for Allah with everything is All-Knowing; Indeed Allah has the absolute authority of the Heavens and the Earth - He gives life, and He makes dead and you do not have other than Him any protector neither a supporter.
Translation of: Ayat 113 - 116, Surat AlTawbah. (9:113-116)
Words: Yastaghfir = Asks Allah for forgiveness, Mushrik = disbeliever, Polytheist, Uli Qurba = Relatives, Mawidah = Promise, Wa'ada = He made a promise, Tabayana = Became clear, Adou = Enemy, Tabar'ra'= He acquitted himself, Awwah = Sufferer with moaning sounds, Haleem = Great tolerant. Yudhil = Leaves to stray, Hada = Guided, Yattaqoun = Avoid - Fear, Doun Allah = Other than Allah, Wali = Protector, Naseer = Supporter.

Q: Why should Allah be the Only One Whom we should call upon for sustenance and help in any matter of our lives?
A: Say (order to Muhammad): Do I take other than Allah a Supporter and he feeds (gives sustenance) and He cannot be fed? Say: For I was ordered to be the first of those who submitted to Allah (Aslam); And do not be from the polytheists (mushrikeen)! Say: For I fear if I disobeyed my God the punishment of a severe Day: Whoever it (punishment) is turned away from so He (Allah) had been merciful upon him and that is the explicit victory.
Translation of: Ayat 14 - 16, Surat AlAn'am.
Words: Gayr = Other than, Fatir = Originator - First to create, Yut'em = Feeds, Mushrik = Polytheist - Who partners with Allah, Akhaf = I fear, Yusraf = Is turned away - Is averted, Fawz = Vicotry, Mubeen = Explicit - Fully Developed - Manifest.

Q: What should those who have faith in Allah do when Satan whispers to them?
A: And if you are poked with a poke (quick urge to do) from Satan then seek refuge* with Allah indeed He is All-Listening, All-Knowing; Indeed those who protect themselves (by fearing Allah) when they are touched by a sudden thought (= Tta'iffun) from Satan they remember (that Satan is Allah's enemy) and suddenly they are endowed with insight; And their brothers (Satan's followers) they (Satan and his offspring) reinforce their transgression then they will not restrain (their efforts).
Translation of: Ayat 200 - 202, Surat AlA'raf. (7:200-202)
* Seek refuge with Allah against Satan = Say "A'outhou Billah Min AlShaytan".
Words: Nazaghun = Poke - Piercing of the skin, FEsta'ith = Then seek refuge, Massahum = Touched them, Tta'ifun = Sudden thought - Sudden impulse, Mubssiroun = Endowed with insight - Discerning - Knowing the differnce, Yamudoonahum = Reinforce - Support, Ghay = Transgression, Yuqssiroun = Restrain - Restrict.

Q: Why is contemplation in the Universe considered a part of faith in Allah?
A: For in the creation of the Heavens and the earth and the alternation of night and day there are certainly Miraculous Signs (indicative of Allah) for men of understanding; Who remember Allah standing, sitting and lying down and contemplate in the creation of the Heavens and the earth - Our God You did not create this for no purpose - glory to You so protect us from the punishment of Hell; ---

Our God indeed we heard a caller (Prophet Muhammad) calling to Faith that do believe in your God so we believed - our God so forgive us our sins and pardon us our bad deeds and take our souls at death to be with the righteous persons (= AlAbrar*); Our God and grant us what You promised us through Your messengers and do not let us down on the Day of Judgement for You do not fail the Promise.
Translation of: Ayat 190 - 191, 193 - 194, Surat AlImran. (3:190- 191, 193-194)
* The reward of "AlAbrar". (refer to Surat AlImran).
Words: Khalq = Creation, Ikhtilaaf = Alternation - One after the other, Uli AlAlbab = Men of undertanding - Those who use their brains - Who understand, Yathkur = Mentions, Qiyaman = Standing, Quoudan = Sitting, Ala Jonoubihim = On their sides, Yatafakkar = Contemplates - Thinks about, Batilan = For no purpose - In vain, Qina = Protect us, Sami'na = We heard, Yunadi = Calls, Iman = Faith, Eghfir = Forgive, Thunoub = Sins, Kaffir = Pardon, Say'at = Bad deeds, Tawaffa = To take our souls at death, Abrar = Righteous people, Mee'ad = Promise.

Q: When you call upon Allah for example by saying: Praise to Allah! Or by saying: My God! grant me so and so...etc., what are you actually doing?
A: (To Prophet Noah) And build the Ark under Our (Allah's) Care and Our Inspiration and do not talk to Me* (Allah) on behalf of those who transgressed (disbelieved in Allah = Dhalamou**) for they are going to be drowned;.
Translation of: Ayah 37, Surat Hood. (11:37)
* Pre-warning from Allah not to intercede for those who disbelieved in Allah. What idols were many people at the time of Prophet Noah believing in? (refer to Surat Noah)
** Remember joining any partner with Allah in worship (= Shirk) is a Grave Injustice or Sin (= Dhulm Adheem) which Allah does not forgive. (refer to Surat Luqman)
Note: What happened to Prophet Noah's Ark? (refer to Surat Hood)
Words: Issne' = Build - Construct - Make - Manufacture, WaWahyena = And Our Inspiration - And Our Revelation, AlFulk = The Ark - The Ship, Dhalamou = Who transgressed - Who committed injustice (to themselves by committing grave sins), Mughraqoun = Are going to be drowned.

Q: What happens to a person who is too arrogant to worship Allah?

A: And your God said call upon Me (= ud'ouni) - I will answer you - indeed those who become too arrogant to worship Me (= Ibadati) they will enter Hell - lowered with humiliation.
Translation of: Ayah 60, Surat Ghafir.(40:60)
Note: Faith in Allah as the One and Only God (Islam) makes a person eligible for Paradise. However not following what Allah commanded and/or doing what Allah prohibited makes a Muslim eligible for Allah's punishment if Allah does not forgive Him.
Words: Udou = Call on, Astajeeb = I answer, Yastakbirouna = Become too arrogant, Ibadah = Worship, Yadkhul = Enters, Dakhir = Lowered with humiliationn - Abased.

Q: When real terror strikes or on the Day of Judgement what is the truthful moment of those who partner with Allah?
A: Tell me (all of you)! When the Punishment of Allah reaches you or (even) when The Hour comes upon you - other than Allah you are going to call on, if you were truthful?! No! On Him (Allah) you will call so He removes what (harm) you are calling Him about if He wills and you will forget what you were partnering with Him (now).
Translation of: Ayat 40 - 41, Surat AlAn'am.
Words: Araytakum = Tell me (you plural), Ata = Reaches, Adhab = Punishment, AGhayr = Other than? Yakshif = Removes, Ma = What, In Sha' = If He wills - If He pleases, Yansa = You will forget.

Q: Why does Allah give a lot to a person who continues his rebellion against Allah?
Hint: In a summary of a saying by the Prophet Muhammad: If you see Allah giving someone who continues doing sins, then this is luring into a trap ("= Istidraj" to be eligible for punishment). The speech is referred to by Hassanain Mohammad Makhlouf, the ex-Mufti of Egypt.
A: And We (Allah) sent to nations before you (Prophet Muhammad) so We afflicted them with misery (because of fighting) and harm so that they might beg earnestly (audible while calling (on Allah); So if only when Our punishment reached them they begged earnestly - but instead their hearts became hardened and Satan made look good to them what they were doing; So when they forgot what they were reminded of (humbling themselves) We (Allah) opened upon them the gates of everything (affluence) until when they rejoiced in what they were given We attacked them suddenly so they became dumbfounded; So the people who transgressed were uprooted and Praise to Allah - The God of the inhabitants of the worlds.
Translation of: Ayat 42 - 45, Surat AlAn'am.
Words: Ba'ssa' = Misery (because of fighting), Dharra' = Harm, Yatadharra'oun = Begged earnestly - Humbled themselves calling on Allah, Nasa = Forgot, Thukira = Was reminded, Fataha = Opened, Fariha = Rejoiced - Was happy, Akhadha = Afflicted - Attacked, Baghtah = Suddenly, Mublisoun = Dumbfounded - Unable to talk because of astonishment, Qutia' Dabir AlQawam = The people were uprooted - The people were exterminated.

Q: If the Prophet Muhammad was a caller to Allah, can Muslims invoke the name of the Prophet (Ya Rasoul Allah)?
Note: According to Merriam Webster's Deluxe Dictionary: Invoking means to petition for help or support, to appeal to or cite as authority.
Note: The familiar slogan of Muslims when invoking the name of Allah is "Allahu Akbar = Allah is Supreme".
A: O you the Prophet (Muhammad)! For We (Allah) sent you as a witness* and a bearer of good news (of Paradise) and a warner (of Hell); And as a caller to Allah with His (Allah's) permission and as an illuminating radiant light (with Guidance).
Translation of: Ayat 45 - 46, Surat AlAhzab.
* Over the people at the Prophet Muhammad's time.
Words: Ya = O - You, Ayuha = You, AlNabi = The Prophet, Arsala = Sent, Shahid = Witness, Mubashir = Bearer of good news, Natheer = Warner, Daaee= Caller, Sirajan = As a radiant light, Muneera = Illuminating.

Q: Why should the prayers and the calling be directed only to Allah?
A: To Him (Allah) is (directed) the true calling and those who call upon (gods) other than Him - they do not answer them anything no more than the one who is stretching out his hands towards water so that it might reach his mouth and it is not reaching it! And the calling of the disbelievers is certainly only in error (futile).
Translation of: Ayah 14, Surat AlRa'd.
Words: Lahu = To Him, Da'wat AlHaq = The true calling - the calling in reality, Yastajeeb = Answers, Illa = No more, Basit = Stretching out - Extending, LiYablugh = Might reach, Fah = Mouth, Baligh = Reaching, Ma ... ILla = Certainly only, Dua' = Calling, Fi Dhallal = In error - In vain.

Q: Why should a stubborn tyrant fear the prayers of the faithful to Allah?
A: And those who disbelieved said to their prophets we will certainly drive you out from our land or you have to return to our religion so Allah revealed to them (prophets) that We (Allah) will certainly destroy the transgressors; And We (Allah) will let you dwell in the land after (destroying) them - that is for whoever is in awe of My (Allah's) Supremacy and fears My (Allah's) warnings; And they (prophets) implored Allah for victory (over their enemies) and every stubborn tyrant comes to nothing (in the end); Behind him (waiting for him) is Hell and he will be given to drink water with pus (dead cells that comes out from the wounds); He gulps** it and he hardly swallows it and death comes to him from everywhere and he is not going to die and behind him (waiting) is a severe punishment.
Translation of: Ayat 15 - 17, Surat Ibraheem.
** Because of thirst.
Words: Rusul = Prophets, Nukhrij = Drive out, Millat = Religion, Rusul = Prophets, Nuskin = Let dwell, Maqam = Supremacy, Wa'eed = Warning, Estaftaha = Implored Allah for victory - Called on Allah to judge, Khaba = Cames to nothing - Failed, Jabbar = Tyrant, Aneed = Stubborn, Min Wara' = Behind - Waiting, Yusqa = Is given to drink, Ma' = Water, Sadeed = With pus, Yatajar'e' = Gulps, La Yakad = Hardly - Barely, Yuseegh = Swallows.

Q: When repenting and asking Allah for forgiveness what is important in the repentance?
A: And whoever repents (to Allah) and does good deeds so he does repent to Allah a proper repentance (with intention).
Translation of: Ayat 71, Surat AlFurqan.
Note: According to more than 1000 year old book "Riyadh AlSaliheen Min Kalam Sayyed AlMursaleen" (now 2009) the Muslim scholars agree that there are three conditions for repentance: Stop the sin, regret doing it, intend not to return to it.
Note: In a summary of a saying by the Prophet Mohammad: If the son of Adam has a valley of gold he will love to have two valleys. And nothing will fill his mouth except the soil (at death) and Allah forgives who repents.
Words: Men Taba = Whoever repents, Mataba = Proper repentance.

Q: Why do Muslims often say the following: Peace be upon you, Glory to Allah and Praise to Allah?
A: Indeed those who believed and did good deeds their God guides them (to Allah's Straight Path) because of their FAITH (= BiImanihim) - underneath whom the rivers flow in the Gardens of Bliss; Their call in it is Glory to You O God - and their greeting (by angels) in it is Peace and the last part of their call is Praise (Thanks) to Allah - the God of all people.
Translation of: Ayat 9 - 10, Surat Yunus. (10:9-10)
Words: Yahdi = Guides, BiImanihim = Because of their Faith - Belief, Tajri = Flowing, Anhar = Rivers, Na'eem = Bliss - Affluence, Da'wahum = Their call - Their Prayer, Subhanaka = Glory to You - Above all shortcoming You are O Lord, Tahiyyatuhum = Their greeting, Salam = Peace, Akhir = The last part - The end, AlHamdu Lillah = Praise to Allah, Rubb = God.

Q: Why do Muslims often glorify (Subhana Allah) and praise Allah (Alhamdu Lilah)?

A: So have patience (command to Prophet Muhammad) for the Promise (Day of Judgement) of Allah is True and ask forgiveness* for your fault (sin) and glorify with the Praise of your God in the evening and the morning.
Translation of: Ayat 55, Surat Ghafir (40).
* In every prayer Muslims glorify and praise Allah in one common way. After prayers Muslims ask Allah for forgiveness.
Words: Esber = Have patience, Wa'd = Promise, Thanb = Sin, Sabbeh = Glorify - Declare Allah is above any shortcoming, Hamd = Praise, Ashiye = Evening, Ibkar = morning.

Q: When does Allah accept the repentance of the wrongdoer?
A: Indeed repentance according to Allah is for those who do evil out of ignorance* then they repent not before long so those Allah accepts their repentance and Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise; And repentance is not for those who do evil until when DEATH comes to one of them he says indeed I am repenting** now neither those who die being disbelievers - for those We (Allah) prepared a painful punishment.
Translation of: Ayat 17 - 18, Surat AlNisa'. (4:17-18)
* According to Hassanain Mohammad Makhlouf, the ex-Mufti (religious scholar) of Egypt: Every wrongdoer is ignorant.
** An example when death came to Pharaoh (= Phiroun) he declared submission to Allah (Islam). (refer to Surat Yunus)
Words: Innama = Indeed, Tawbah = Repentance - Asking for forgiveness, Ya'mal = Does, Sou' = Evil, Jahalah = Ignorance, Min Qareeb = Not before long, Hadhara = Comes, Mawt = Death, E'tadna = Prepared, Athab = Punishment, Aleem = Painful - Severe.

Q: When calling on Allah why should we ask Allah directly for what we want without saying 'if You (Allah) will'?
A: And say: My God! Grant forgiveness and Mercy for You are the Best of the merciful.
Translation of: Ayah 118, Surat AlMo'minoun.
Note: In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: If anyone of you called on Allah let him beg Allah earnestly for it and not say 'God, if you want grant me! Because there is none to tell Allah not to grant him (= la mustakrih lahou) (Also it shows having trust in Allah.).
Words: Qul = Say, Rubbi = My God, Eghfir = Grant forgiveness, Erhem = Grant mercy, Anta = You, Khair = The Best, Rahimeen = Merciful.

Q: Which two verses (= Ayat) in Chapter AlBaqarah in the Qur'an, the Prophet Muhammad said are from the Treasure under Allah's Throne. Anyone who reads both of them every evening they will suffice him and bring him tranquility (Istakana)?
Hint: The last two lines (ayat).

A: The Messenger (Prophet Muhammad) believed in what was sent down to him from his God so did the believers - everyone (of them) believed in Allah His angels His Holy Books and His messengers - (they say) we do not differentiate among any of His messengers (= rusul) and they said we listened and we obeyed - (grant us) Your forgiveness Our God and to You is the return;
Allah does not burden a soul other than its capability* - for it what it gained (good deeds) and upon itself (= alayha) what it acquired (bad deeds) - Our God do not hold us responsible for what we forget or err - Our God and do not burden us with a heavy load as you burdened the people before us** and do not make us bear what we do not have strength for - and forgive us (forgive and delete sins) and pardon us (forgive) and have Mercy on us - You are our Master so do support us against the disbelieving people.
Translation of: Ayat 285 - 286, Surat AlBaqarah. (2:285-286)
* What Allah asked a human soul to do (submit to Allah and the rituals) is manageable and is according to human capability.
** Burden of the People of the Book before the Prophet Muhammad.
Words: AlRasool = The messenger, Unzila = Was sent, Malaikah = Angels, Kutub = Books, Rusul = Prophets, La Nufarriq = We do not differentiate - We make no distinction, Ghufranaka = Your forgiveness, Masseer = Return, Yukallif = Burdens, Illa = Other than - Except, Wus'e = Capability, Same'na = We listned, Ate'na = We obeyed, Kasabat = Gained, Ektasabat = Acquired, Tuakhithna = Hold us responsible, Naseena = We forget, A'khta'na = We err, Tahmil Isr = Burden with a heavy load, La Taqah = No strength, E'fu = Forgive and delete sins, Eghfer = Pardon - Forgive, Mawla = Master - Protector, Unsur = Support.

Q: Why do some Muslims deviate away from Allah's Path?
A: (Pray) Our God do not let our hearts deviate (away from Your Path) after You have guided us and grant us from you Mercy for you are The Provider.
Translation of: Ayah 8, Surat AlImran.
Note: In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: Faith in Allah will prevail until the disbelieving (Kufr) will be confined by its countries. Islam will reach across the seas. people will read the Qur'an and learn it. Then they will say: we read the Qur'an and we learnt it so who is better than us? The Prophet said: There is no goodness in such people. He was asked: Who are those? The Prophet said: Those are from you (Muslims) - those are the fuel of Hell. Source: Mukhtasar Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, volume 1, page 265.

Note: Aishah, a wife of the ProphetMuhammad. may Allah be pleased with her said: O Prophet of Allah! How much you call on Allah with this prayer (Ayah 8 in Surat AlImran, above). In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: There is no heart except it is between two Fingers of the Fingers of the Most Merciful. If He wills He keeps it straight (on Allah's Path = He straightens it) Or if He wills to deviate it (from Allah's Path) He deviates it. Source: Mukhtasar Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, volume 1, page 267.
Words: Tuzegh' = Deviate - Turn away, Hadaytana = You have guided us, Heb = Grant, AlWahhab = The Provider.

Q: Why should we always ask Allah for forgiveness?
A: And whoever commits a sin or wrongs his own soul then he asks Allah for forgiveness he will find Allah Forgiving, Merciful.
Translation of: Ayah 110, Surat AlNisa'.
Note: In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: Satan said to Allah: By Your Supremacy, my God, I will continue to tempt your servants (away from Allah) as long as their souls are in their bodies. So The God said: By My (Allah's) Supremacy (Izatti) and Sublimity (Jalali), I will forgive them as long as they ask Me for forgiveness. Source: Mukhtasar Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, volume 1, page 102.
Words: Ya'mal Sou'an = Commits a sin, Yathlem = Wrongs himself, Yastaghfer = Asks for forgiveness, Ghafour = Forgiving, Raheem = Merciful.

Q: What is Allah's Supreme Name by which if called Allah answers, as the Prophet Muhammad said*?

A: Say (command to Prophet Muhammad) my God The Holder of the Supreme Authority* (of everything) (= Malik AlMulk) - You grant authority (power) to whomever You will and You strip off authority from whomever You will and You honour whomever You will and You humiliate whomever You will - all Good lies in Your (Allah's) Hand - indeed upon everything You are All-Capable.
Translation of: Ayah 26, Surat AlImran. (3:26)
* Source: Mukhtasar Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, volume 1, page 275.
*Attributes (Names) of Allah.
Words: Malik AlMulk = Holder of the Supreme Authority - Owner of the Universe, Tu'ti = You grant, Men = Whomever, Tasha' = You will - You please, Tanze' = You strip off, Ta'iz = You honour, Tathil = You humiliate, Qadeer = All-Capable.

Q: To keep his Faith on Allah's Straight Path what should a Muslim call upon Allah for?
A: (Muslims say) Our God do not deviate our hearts after You have guided us and grant us from You Mercy for You are The Grantor;
Our God You are gathering mankind for a Day (of Judgement) there is no doubt in it - indeed Allah does not fail the Promise; For those who disbelieved - nor their wealth neither their children will avail them anything from Allah and those are the fuel of Fire (of Hell).
Translation of: Ayat 9 - 10, Surat AlImran.
Note: In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: Faith (in Allah) will prevail until the disbelieving (atheism) recedes to its countries. Muslims will spread Islam across the seas and some time will come upon people in it the Qur'an will be read (a lot) so they will read it and learn it. Then they will say that we read the Qur'an and we learnt it so who is better than us (= arrogant)! (The Prophet continues) In those there is no good. The companions said: Prophet of Allah who are those? The Prophet said: Those are from you (Muslims) - those are the fuel of Fire. Source: Mukhtasar Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, page 265.
Note: Allah's Straight Path.
Words: Tazegh = Deviate, Heb = Grant, Rahmah = Mercy, Jaami'e = Gathering, Rayb = Doubt, Amwal = Wealth, Awlad = Children, Wuqoud = Fuel.

Q: Can anyone other than Allah forgive sins?
A: And those (Muslims who fear Allah = AlMuttaquon or AlMuttaqeen*) when they commit an immoral act or they transgress against themselves**(disobey Allah) they remember Allah so they ask (Allah for) forgiveness for their sins and who forgives sins except Allah and they do not knowingly insist upon what they committed.
Translation of: Ayah 135, Surat AlImran. (3:135)
* "AlMuttaqeen" mentioned in the translation of Ayah 133 in Surat AlImran.
** Disobeying Allah does no harm at all to Allah but it is is a bad deed for the doer himself.
Note: In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: The Prophet said: Persist upon ("there is no god but Allah" = "la illaha illa Allah") and (Asking Allah for forgiveness). Repeat them alot because "Iblees" (Lucifer = name of Satan) said: I exhausted (tired = Ahlakt) people with sins and they exhausted me with "La Illaha Illa Allah" and with asking Allah for forgiveness. So when I saw that, I exhausted them with whims (being into religious sects) and they think that they are guided (on Allah's Path). Source: Mukhtasar Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, volume 1, page 320.
Words: Fa'alou = Committed, Fahishah = Immoral act - Sin , Thalamou Anfusahum = They transgressed against themselves, Thakara = Remembered, Estaghfara = Asked forgiveness, Yusir = Insist, Hum Ya'lamoun = Knowingly.

Q: At times of catastrophe why do people call on Allah?
A: And whatever blessing you possess so it is from Allah then when harm afflicts you (plural) then to Him you cry out for help*; Then when He removes the harm from you suddenly a group of you JOIN PARTNER(S) WITH THEIR GOD (ALLAH).
Translation of: Ayat 53 - 54, Surat AlNahl.
* "= taja'roun" the word originally refers to the cry of the beast like roaring or mooing.
Words: Bikum = You possess, Ni'mah = Blessing - Good things - Favour, Massakum Aldhur = Harm afflicts you, Kashafa = Removed, Fareeq = Group, Yushrikoun = Join partner(s).

Q; Sometimes some believers use as means for supplication to Allah very righteous servants of Allah for example prophets or angels. Are they aware of their supplication? What are such righteous servants of Allah competing for (so do not shame them in front of Allah)?
A: Say call upon (= Udou) those whom You (plural) CLAIMED* beside Him (Allah) for they do not have the power for removing harm from you or its averting; Those WHOM THEY CALL UPON (prophets - angels) plead (and compete = Yabtaghouna**) towards their God for the Favourable Acceptance by deliberate effort (= AlWaseelah)*** - which one will be the nearest (to Allah = Ayuhum Aqrabu****) and they look forward to His Mercy and they fear His punishment for the PUNISHMENT of your God is to be beware of.
Translation of: Ayat 56 - 57, Surat AlIsra' (known as Surat Beni Israel).
* To have power of intercession (= Shafa'ah) with Allah... etc. See how the act of intercession on the Day of Judgement is strict by being only through Allah's Permission. (do you think then that there is intercession with Allah through someone in this life?) (refer to Surat Taha)
** Those righteous persons compete for the best places near Allah. They do not want to be stopped and questioned by Allah why some people were supplicating to them especially when they were dead.

*** In a summary of an authenticated saying of the Prophet Muhammad: Whoever says after hearing the call for the prayer the following words he will be granted to have (my) intercession on the Day of Judgement "Our God! The God of this completed call and the prayer being performed: Grant Muhammad the Favourable Acceptance by deliberate effort (= AlWaseelah) and the Merit (=AlFadheelah) and grant him (after resurrection)A Favourable Status (= Maqaman Mahmoodan "nearness to Allah") that You promised him for You do not fail the Promise" (= AlLahumma Rubb Hathihi AlDa'wah AlTaamah welSalat AlQaa'imah Aati Muhammadan AlWaseelah welFadheelah Web'asthhu Maqaman Mahmooda AlLathi Wa'adtahu Innaka La Tukhlifu AlMee'ad). Source: Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, Volume 2, page 79.
Note 1: The first time some Muslims called out to the Prophet Muhammd "O Muhammad = "Ya Muhammad" (to be energized) was in the Battle of Mu'tah. The Prophet stayed in AlMadinah after sending the soldiers to fight. Sheikh Waleed Basyouni refers to the calling of (Ya Muhammad) as "Shirk" = Joining a partner with Allah in his "Obligation of following the Sahabahs' Methodology, part 2".
**** 'AlMuqarrboun' - who are they? (refer to Surat AlWaqiah)
Note 2: Calling upon Allah's righteous servant can put the servant in a questionable situation (an example).
Note 3: All of Muslims should work to gain 'AlWaseelah' - Favourable acceptance of Allah. (refer to Surat AlMa'idah)
Words: Udou = Call upon, Za'amtum = You claimed, Min Doun Allah = Beside Allah - Other than Allah, Yamlikoun = Have the power, Kashf Aldhur = Removing the harm, Tahweela = Its averting, Yadoun = They call upon, Yabtaghouna = Plead, Ila Rabihim = With their God, AlWaseelah = The Honourable Rank - The Means, Ayuhum = Which one, Aqrab = The nearest, Yarjoun = Look forward to, Yakhafoun = Fear, Mahthoura = To be aware of.

Q; In order that Allah remembers Muslims with His Mercy what do they have to do?

A: (Allah says) So do remember* Me (Allah) I will remember** you and be grateful to Me and do not disbelieve in Me.
Translation of: Ayah 152, Surat AlBaqarah. (2:152)
* through obedience to Allah.
** through Allah's Forgiveness and Mercy.
Note: Mentioning Allah's Attribtues (Names) is one way of remembering Allah such as "Glory to Allah".
Beware of what some Muslims say in their made-up high praise verses of Allah or the Prophet. According to Sheikh Waleed Basyouni in "Obligation of following the Sahabahs' Methodology, part 2" Sufism, an Islamic sect, started in AlBasrah, Iraq with pious people (= Zuhhad) from "Ahl AlSunnah" who devoted their lives to worshipping Allah. Nowadays Sufism is divided into different groups with some groups reaching an unacceptable level of deviation from Islam. Sheikh Waleed mentions some names and examples. One example taken from the famous books of Sufism is that one of them says that he asked Allah to let him enter Hell but Allah did not grant him his wish. When he asked "why" Allah told him because ,as the Sufi says, if he enters Hellfire he will make it into a garden and Allah says that He has prepared Hellfire for punishing His sinning servants.
Listen to an example site that hosts Waleed Basyouni's "Obligation of following the Sahabahs' Methodology, part 2".
Words: Uthkorouni = Remember (Me), Athkurkum = I will remember you (plural), Ushkorou Li = Be grateful to Me - Be thankful to Me, La Takfourni = Do not disbelieve in Me - Do not be ungrateful to Me,

Q: Who comes under the category of the faithful who protect themselves against Hellfire and will be rewarded generously by Allah?
A: (Allah's satisfaction and generosity are for) Those who say our God we have indeed believed so do forgive us our sins and protect us against the punishment of the Fire (Hell); (Those are) The ones who are regularly patient, the truthful, the devoutly obedient, those who regularly spend (on what Allah commanded) and those who regularly pray (to Allah) for forgiveness at dawn times* (until Dawn prayer).
Translation of: Ayat 16 - 17, Surat AlImran.
* In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: Allah the Sublime comes down every night to the Lowest Heaven (sky) when the last third part of the night remains and He says: Is there anyone demanding (something) so I give him? Is there anyone praying (for something) so I answer him? Is there anyone praying for forgiveness so I forgive him? Source: Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, volume 1, page 496.
Words: Aamanna = We have believed, Eghfir = Forgive, Thunoubana = Our sins, Qinna = Protect us, AlSabireen = Those who are patient, Sadiqeen = The truthful, Qaniteen = The devoutly obedient, Munfiqeen = Those who spend, Mustaghfireen = Those who pray for forgivenss, BilAshaar = At dawn times.

Q: If one forgets remembering Allah what will Allah make him forget?
A: And do not be like those (before you) who forgot (remembering) Allah so Allah made them forget their own souls* - Those are the ones who strayed away (from Allah's Path).
Translation of: Ayah 19, Surat AlHashr.
* Their own salvation.
Words: Nasau = Forgot, Anfusahum = Their own souls, Ulaika = Those - Such, AlFaasiqoun = Who strayed away - The immoral - The transgressors.

Q: According to Allah's Command are people allowed to make any sort of corruption on earth?
Hint: The violent riot actions by some protesters in downtown Toronto during the G20 meeting on June 26, 2010.
A: Call upon your God begging earnestly (audible) and in secret for He does not like the transgressors; And do not corrupt on earth after setting it in order and call upon Him (Allah) fearing and desiring for Allah's Mercy is near to those who perfect their religion*.
Translation of: Ayat 55 - 56, Surat AlA'raf.
* (= AlMuhsineesn) are those who perfect their religion by following Allah's commands. They know if they cannot see Allah then Allah is seeing them.
Note: Allah rebukes people who watch passively and helplessly corruption being made on earth. An example is of the time of the Prophet Lut: "And Lut (Prophet) when he said to his people: Do you commit the vile (degrading) deed while you are watching; For you are having intercourse with men fulfilling lust other than (with) women - indeed you are people who are ignorant." Translation of Lines 54 - 55 in Chapter "AlNaml".
Even some people of the earlier times used to rebuke the passive watchers. An example is of the time of the Prophet Muhammad.
Words: Tadharruan = Begging earnestly - Humbling yourselves, Islah = Setting in order, Khawfan = Fearing, Taman = Desiring, Qareeb = Near, Muhsineen = Who perfect their religion.

Q: Does it affect Allah if an angry person says he is not getting help from Allah so he will stop calling on Him?
A: For Allah will admit those who believed and did the righteous deeds Gardens (in Paradise) underneath which the rivers flow for Allah does what He pleases; Whoever thinks that Allah is not going to help him in this Life and the Other Life so let him stretch a rope up to the sky (top of his house) then let him cut (it) (= hang himself) and see if his plan removes what angers him (against Allah); And this is how We (Allah) sent it (Qur'an) down (in) fully developed Miraculous Signs (lines of the Qur'an) and Allah guides whoever He pleases.
Translation of: Ayat 14 - 16, Surat AlHajj.
Note: Remember the English expression "go fall down the wall" = who cares!.
Words: Yaf'al = Does, Yureed = Pleases - Wants, Yathun = Thinks, Len Yansurahu = Will not help him, Tlyamdud = Let him stretch - Let him extend, LYaqta' = Let him cut, Kaydahu = His plan, Yagheedh = What angers him.

Q: Will the idols that the disbelievers worship intercede (plead) for their followers with Allah on the Day of Judgement?
A: Or have they (disbelievers)* taken other than Allah intercessors - say (command to Prophet Muhammad) even if they do not have any authority and they do not understand; Say to Allah belongs the intercession all of it - to Him belongs the Supreme Authority of the Heavens and the earth then to Him you will (all) return.
Translation of: Ayat 43 - 44, Surat AlZumar.
* Even remember that prophets have promised their followers to intercede with Allah for them. But the intercession of the prophets for their followers and the Prophet Muhammad for Muslims will not take place without Allah's permission on the Day of Judgement. So Muslims should call on Allah alone if they want the Prophet Muhammad to intercede for them on the Day of Judgement. Line 109 in Chapter Taha is translated: "That Day there is no pleading (intercession) but to whom Allah has allowed and accepted that he speaks (= Athina lahu wardhiya lahu qawla)."
Note: In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad regarding the Prophet Muhammad's intercession for Muslims.
Words: Etakhathou = They took, Min Doun Allah = Other than Allah - Besides Allah, Shufa' = Intercessors - Pleaders, La Yamlikoun Shayan = They do not have any authority - Do not own anything, La Ya'qiloun = Do not understand, Mulk = Supreme Authority - The Kingdom.

Q: What should the believers in distraught repeat to gain Allah's Mercy?

A: He (Prophet Saleh) said O my people why do you hasten the bad (punishment) to come before the good (Mercy) only if you ask Allah for forgiveness so you may receive Mercy (from Allah).
Translation of: Ayah 46, Surat AlNaml.
* No 5 on the Prophets' Map.
Words: Tasta'jiloun = Hasten, Bi'Say'eah = The bad, Qabla = Before, Tastaghfroun Allah = Ask Allah for forgiveness.

Q: Why should we pray to Allah to help us become believers (to have Faith = mou'mineen)?
A: And no human can have Faith except with permission from Allah and He (Allah) places impurity* upon those who do not realize (about Allah).
Translation of: Ayah 100, Surat Yunus. (10:100)
* Impurity because of unlawful (= haram) acts = rijs. Remember that Allah is Pure and He accepts only pure acts that are done with the primary intention of pleasing Allah.
Note: Remember that having Faith "believing = Iman" is another part of Islamic Creed.
Line 103 in Surat Yusuf in the Qur'an is translated "And most of people no matter how hard you tried will not be believers (= mou'mineen)".
Note: Iman (Faith) makes a Muslim fear Allah because he believes Allah is watching him. More people are Muslims (= Muslimeen), less are believers (= Mou'mineen).
Words: Nafs = Human - Soul, BiIthn = With permission, Yaj'al = He places, AlRijs = Impurity because of unlawful acts, La Ya'qiloun = Do not realize - Do not use your brains.

Q: What guides a person when he remains on Allah's Straight Path?
A: So whoever Allah has widened (relaxed) his chest to Islam then he is upon a light (Guidance) from his God; So woe (ddestruction) to those whose hearts are hardened (= AlQasiyati Quloubuhum) against remembering Allah - those are in a clear straying away (away from Allah's Path). Translation of: Ayah 22, Surat AlZumar. (39:22)
* No mercy or feeling for the poor and the weak. It is reported in Islamic trustworthy books that Muslims who fear Allah have hearts more delicate than birds (they suffer for the just and fair suffering of others).

Note: In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: The best of your (Muslim) governors whom you love and they love you. And you pray for Allah's Mercy on them and they pray for Allah's Mercy on you. And the worst of your governors those you hate and they hate you, and you curse them and they curse you. A companion then asked: Should not we then fight them? The Prophet said: No! As long as they perform prayer among you. And the Prophet repeated: No! As long as they PERFORM PRAYER among you (= Aqamou feekum AlSalat). Source: Riyadh AlSaliheen Min Kalam Sayed AlMursaleen, page 222.
Words: Sharaha = Widened - Made relaxed - Made delighted, Ala Noor = Upon a light - Has received enlightment, Wayl = Woe - Destruction, LilQaasiyati Quloubuhum = Those whose hearts are hardened, Thikr Allah = Remembering Allah - Reminder of Allah - Message of Allah - Praise of Allah, Dhalal = straying away.

Q: Why do many preachers tend to end their Friday sermons by saying : And remembering Allah is the greatest and (now) perform the prayer (= WalaThikr Allah Akbar waAkeemou AlSalat)?
Hint: The prayer is a way of remembering Allah.
A: (Allah says) O those who believed remember Allah with much remembrance; And glorify* Him early in the morning (= Bukratan) and in the late afternoon (= Asseela)
Translation of: Ayat 41 - 42, Surat AlAhzab. (33:41-42)
* The glorification of Allah is to hold Allah high above any shortcoming and above anything people join with Him.
Note: In a summary of a Holy Saying (= "Hadeesth Qudsi" directly from Allah through the Angel Gabriel but not part of the Qur'an) said by the Prophet Muhammad: Allah has traveling angels other than those angels that write down people's deeds. So if they see a group of people remembering Allah they call one another to the lowest Heaven and they shade them with their wings. Then Allah will ask them: In what state did you leave My servants. They will say: We left them thanking You, glorifying and Remembering You. Allah will ask them: Did they see Me. They will say: No. Allah will say: What if they see Me. They say: If they see You they will glorify You more and more. Then Allah will ask them what they are seeking. They will say Paradise. Allah will ask: Did they see it. They will say: No. Allah will say: What if they see it. They will say: They will seek it more and more. Allah will ask what they are seeking refuge against. They will see against Hell. Allah will ask: Did they see it. They will say No. Allah will say: What if they see it. They will say: Then they will be more fearing it and more seeking refuge against it. Allah will say: I make you witnesses that I have forgiven them. They will say: But a person (they will mention his name) is much of a sinner and he was among them just because he came for some favour. Allah will say: Those group of people a person sitting with them does not become unfortunate (= Humu AlQawm La Yashqa Lahum Jalees). Source: AlAhadeesth AlQudsiyyah, pages 24 - 25.
Words: AlLatheena Amanou = Those who believed - Believers, Uthkorou = Remember, Thikran = Remembrance - Remembering, Kastheeran = Much - A lot of, Sabbihouh = Glorify Him, Bukratan = In the early morning, Asseela = In the late afternoon - Evening - Before sunset.

Q: Nowadays among the chaos surrounding many Muslim countries what two actions can bring the Mercy of Allah on those who are suffering?

A: (Prophet Shuayb says) And do ask Allah for forgiveness then turn to Him in repentance* for my God is Merciful, Loving.
Translation of: Ayah 90, Surat Hood.
* Declaring earnestly to Allah as if said under oath that the sin if any will not be repeated.
Words: Estaghfirou = Forgive, Toubu = Turn in repentance, Raheem = Merciful, Wadood = Loving.

Q: What can relieve people of the disasters that afflict them?
Note: Ali Bin Abi Taleb (the Prophet's cousin) may Allah be pleased with him said: No disaster happens without a sin and it is not lifted without repentance (= Ma Nazala Bala' Illa BiThanb waLa Rufi'a Illa BiTawbah).
A: And He (Allah) is Who accepts repentance from His servants and He pardons sins and knows what you (all) do.
Translation of: Ayah 25, Surat AlShoura.
Words: Yaqbal = Accepts, AlTawbah = Repentance - Praying to Allah for forgiveness and never to return to the same sin again, Ibadihi = His servants - His (all) people, Ya'fou = He pardons, AlSaye'at = Sins - Bad deeds, Tafaloun = You all do.

Q: Can any of those whom people call upon other than Allah really benefit or harm?
Note: Even some Muslims call upon certain names of well known dead Muslims (instead of Allah) for example to gain courage.
A: Really if you asked them who created the Heavens and the earth they would certainly say Allah say then see (consider) what you call upon other than Allah if Allah wanted to inflict harm on me will they be lifting His harm or if He wanted to grant me Mercy will they be holding back His Mercy say (command to Prophet Muhammad) Enough is Allah for me - in Him the ones who trust put their trust.
Translation of: Ayah 38, Surat AlZumar.
Words: LaIn = Really if, Sa'altahum = You asked them, Khalqa = Created, AFara'aytum = Then see - Then consider, Tad'oun = You call, Dhur = Harm, Kashifat = Lifting, Mumsikat = Holding back, Hasbiya = Enough for me, Yatawakal AlMutawakiloun = The ones who trust put their trust.

Q: Besides actions, how should Muslims express in words their love for Allah?
Note: The Ayah 146 in Surat AlImran about God-fearing men.
A: And their (God-fearing men) saying was not except that they said Our God forgive us our sins and our exceeding the proper bounds (that Allah allowed) in our affairs and firmly fix our feet* (in wars) and make us victorious upon the disbelieving people; So Allah granted them the reward of this Life and the good reward of the Other Life and Allah loves who perfect their religion (AlMuhsineen**).
Translation of: Ayah 147 - 148, Surat AlImran.
* We do not unnecessarily retreat (only retreat to regroup).
** Remember AlIhsan in the Prophet's saying.
Words: Qawluhum = Their saying, Eghfir = Forgive, Thonoubana = Our sins, Israfana = Our exceeding the proper limits, Amrina = Our affairs, Sthabbit = Firmly fix, Unsurna = Make us victorious - Grant us victory, Sthawab = Reward, Yuhib = Loves, AlMuhsineen = Those who perfect their religion.

Q: We are commanded by Allah to remember Him (= Thikr Allah). Where do we get the guidelines for remembering Allah?
A: By no means* it (the Qur'an) is a Reminder; So who wants let him remember it (the Reminder); And they will not remember (it) except as Allah wills** - He is the Most Worthy to be feared and the Most Capable of granting forgiveness.
Translation of: Ayat 54 - 56, Surat AlMuddasther.
* There is no salvation for the disbelievers.
** Allah will guide towards Himself and His Word anyone whose heart is ready to be guided.
Words: Kalla = By no means - Never, Tathkirah = Reminder, Yathakkaroun = Remember - bear it in mind, Ahl AlTaqwa = The Most Worthy to be feared, Ahl AlMghfirah = Most Capable of granting forgiveness.

Q: During our daily life and from time to time what should we always remember?
Note: Islam is a communal (related to community) religion. A famous Islamic saying is: Work for your life as if you were going to live forever and work for your Other Life as if you were going to die tomorrow.
A: O people who have believed do not let your wealth and your children keep you busy from remembering Allah (= dhikr Allah) and whoever does that then those are the losers (according to Allah).
Translation of: Ayah 9, Surat Almunafiqoun.
Note: Apart from how the Qur'an and the Prophet Muhammad told Muslims to remember Allah through the Muslim rituals of calling on Allah (= AlDua'), prayer , reading the Qur'an...etc., here are some excerpts from the book 'no god but God' by Reza Aslan, 2011, related to 'Dhikr Allah' remembering Allah:
Dhikr, as the physical act of remembering God has become the central ritual activity for all Sufis, though the actual form and function of the dhikr varies drastically depending on the Order. (pages 221 - 222) 1. Vocal dhikr" made popular through the rituals of the Qadiri Order. The Qadiri, center their dhikr activities on rhythmic and repetitive invocations of the Shahadah (the testimony) or some other religious phrase. Ofen accompanied by strenuous breathing exercises and rapid movements of the head and torso ... By repeatedly invoking God through this physical act of remembrance the disciple gradually strips himself of his ego so that he may be clothed instead in the attributes of God. In this way, the Qadiri claim, "the rememberer becomes the remembered." 2. Silent Dhikr, popularized by the Order of the Naqshbandi. In it the Names of God are repeated inwardly in an act of meditation, rather than aloud in act of communion. The silent dhikr does not exactly correspond to the meditation rituals found in, for example, Theravada Buddhis. However, the Naqshbandi as well as a few other contemplative Sufi Orders, do practice something called fikr; which Ian Richard Netton correctly translated as "contemplation resulting in certitude of the divine." In any case, like the Qadiri, the Naqshbandi have only one goal in pursuing either dhikr or fikr: Union with God. 3. The spiritual dance of Turkey's Mevlevi order founded by Rumi (page 222): and popularly known as the Whirling Darvishes... While in Caucasus, where Sufism inherited many of the shamanistic practices of the ancient Indo-Europeans, dhikr tends to focus not so much on recitation or meditation, but rather on physical pain as a means to shock the disciple into a state of ecstasy. The Rifa'i Order in Macedonia for example is famous for its public acts of self-mutilation in which disciples pierce themselves with spikes while in a trancelike state. In certain parts of Morocco there are Sufis who practice dhikr through great feats of strength and stamina meant to separate them from the false reality of the material world. (page 223): 4. Another popular form of dhikr, primarily employed by the Chisti Order who dominate the Indian subcontinent. The Chistis specialize in the use of music in their spiritual exercises. Their "remembrance of God" is best expressed through rapturous spiritual concerts called sama', which Bruce Lawrence describes as "a dynamic dialogue between a human lover and the Divine Beloved." Of course music and dance - both of which tend to be frowned upon in traditional Islamic worship - have a long history in the Indian subcontinent, and part of the reason for the rapid spread of Sufism in India was the ease with which it appropriated both into its worship ceremonies. In fact, early Chisti evangelists would often enter a town playing flutes of beating drums so as to gather a crowd before launching into the tales of their Pirs.So the Sama' is means to by which the Chistis experience the supra sensible world.
Words: La Tulhikum Amwalukum = Do not let your wealth keep you busy - Do not let divert you, Dhikr Allah = Remembering Allah, Yaf'al = Does, AlKhasiroun = The losers.

Q: Just like death, calling on Allah to change its timing will not be answered. What else is timed?
Note: Other than the time of death for each one of us, calling on Allah can change what is destined for us. (= La Yard AlQadha' Illa AlDua').
A: For the Day of Decision (Day of Judgement) had been an appointed time; The Day it will be blown in the Trumpet so you (all) will come forward in groups.
Translation of: Ayat 17 - 18, Surat AlNaba'.
Words: AlFasl = Decision, Kana Meeqata = Had been an appointed time, Unfakh = It will be blown, AlSoor = Trumpet - Horn, Afwaja = Groups - Crowds.

Q: In our supplication (=Dua') to Allah how much good should we ask Allah from this life?
A: And from them (people) who (believers) say our God grant us in this Life good* and in the Other Life good and protect us against the punishment of the Fire; Those for them (in Life) is a portion (of good things) of what they earned (as reward for good deeds) and Allah is Swift in taking account.
Translation of: Ayat 201 - 202, Surat AlBaqarah.
* Remember disbelievers can be given a lot of good things in this life as a trial for them. "We (Allah) hasten the good things for them (the wrongdoers) but they are not aware." Translation of Line 56 in Surat AlMo'minoun in the Qur'an.
Note: The companion "Anas Bin Malik" may Allah be pleased with him was asked: What supplication did the Prophet Muhammad call on Allah the most with? Anas said the Prophet used to say (a supplication based on the mentioned Ayah: "Allahuma Rubbana Atina Fi AlDunya Hasanah waFi AlAkhirah Hasanah waQina Athat AlNar." Source: Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, Volume 1, page 352.
Words: Atina = Grant us, Hasanah = Good - Good things, Qina = Protect us, Ulaika = Those, Naseeb = Portion, Kasabou = Earned, Saree' AlHisab = Swift in taking account.

Q: Who answers the Call of Allah and complies with it?
Note: The preceding Line 25 in Surat AlShoura is translated: "And He (Allah) is Who accepts repentance from His servants (all people) and He pardons sins and knows what you (all) do.
A: And those who believed and did the righteous deeds answer the Call* (of Allah) - and He augments (multiplies the reward) for them from His Bounty and the disbelievers for them is a severe punishment.
Translation of: Ayah 26, Surat AlShoura.
* Including repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah.
Note: People should answer the Call of Allah.
Words: Yastajeeb = Answer the Call - Comply with the command, AlSalihat = Righteous deeds, Yazeeduhum = He augments for them, Min Fadhlihi = From His Bounty - From His Favour, Shadeed = Severe.

Q: What should a Muslim do to enjoy a good life in this world?
Note: The preceding 'Line 2' in Surat Hood is translated: "Do not worship but Allah for I (Prophet Muhammad) am to you from Him (Allah) a warner and a bearer of good news."
A: And do ask your God for forgiveness then turn to Him in repentance He will allow you to enjoy good temporary enjoyment (in this Life) to an appointed known (to Him) time* - and (then) He will grant full reward to everyone with favour (good deeds) - and if they turn away then (command to prophet Muhammad to say) I (Prophet Muhammad) fear for you the punishment of a Grave Day.
Translation of: Ayah 3, Surat Hood.
* The time of death of each one of us. And the time of the Day of Judgement.
Note: In the same Surat 'Hood" Prophet Hood tells how to enjoy abundant rain.
Words: Estaghfirou = Ask for forgiveness, Tubou = Turn in repentance, Ajal = Appointed time, Musamma = Known, Yu'ti Kulla Thi Fadhl Fadhlahu = He will grant full reward to everyone with favour, Tawallaw = They turn away, Akhafu = I fear, Athab = Punishment - Suffering.

Q: Why do many people cry to Allah for help then they forget about it when there is no need?
A: And when harm afflicted man he called Us (Allah) to his side (lying down) or sitting or standing (all the time) so when We removed the harm from him he passed as if he never called* Us to a harm that afflicted him - in this way it was made to look good to those who sinfully stray away** (from Allah's Path) what (bad) they were doing.
Translation of: Ayah 12, Surat Yunus.
* Man attributes his success to human knowledge while being ungrateful to Allah. (Man should thank Allah first for making it feasible for him to succeed or escape harm).
** And after the harm is removed many people become grateful to other than Allah.
Words: AlDhur = Harm, LiJanbihi = To his side, Qaaidan = Sitting, Qaaiman = Standing, Kashafna = We removed, Zuyyena = Made to look good, LilMusrifeen = To those who sinfully stray away from Allah's Path.

Q: Especially in countryside what time of the day can you hear sparrows on a tree for example chirping loudly together?
A: So (command to Prophet Muhammad) be patient with what they say and do glorify* the Praise** of your God (especially) before sunrise and before sunset.
Translation of: Ayah 39, Surat Qaf.
* "Subhanna Allah" = Glory to Allah. (Allah is High Above what people attribute to Him.)
** "AlHamdu Lillah" = Praise to Allah - Thanks to Allah.
Note: Birds too glorify Allah.
Words: FaSber = So be patient, Sabbeh BiHamdi = Glorify the Praise, Qabla = Before, Tolou' AlShams = Sunrise, AlGhoroub = Sunset

Q: What Attribute of Allah should we recall to our minds when we are sick?
A: And Jub (= Prophet Ayyub) when he called upon his God for I have been inflicted by distress and You (Allah) are the Most Merciful among the merciful (ones).
Translation of: Ayah 83, Surat AlAnbiya'.
Note: Allah answered the Prophet Ayyub and bestowed His Mercy on Him. (Remember when we call upon Allah we must show optimism and full confidence that Allah is going to listen to our prayer).
Words: Nadaa = Called upon, Massani AlDurr = I have been inflicted by distress - I have veen inflicted by harm, Arham = The Most Merciful, AlRahimeen = The merciful.

Q: Who learns a lesson from the patience of Prophet Ayyub (Jup in English)?
Note: Prophet Ayyub was severely sick with a skin disease for some decades. It is reported that worms were coming out from his decaying skin.
A: Then We (Allah) answered him so We removed from him what harm he had and We gave him his family and the like of them* with them as a Mercy from Us and a Reminder** for the worshippers (of Allah).
Translation of: Ayah 84, Surat AlAnbiya'.
* More family members.
** Patience with prayer to Allah bears its fruits.
Words: Fastajabna = Then We answered him, FaKashafna = So We removed, LilAbideen = The worshippers.

Q: How do people become ungrateful to Allah after surviving a catastrophe?
Note: The translation of the preceding Lines 53-54 in Surat AlNahl in the Qur'an.
A: (Prophet Muhammad is commanded) So let them disbelieve in what We granted* them (to tell them) so enjoy the temporary enjoyment (of life) for soon you will come to know.
Translation of: Ayah 55, Surat AlNahl.
* What does man forget after surviving a catastrophe?
Note: Remember that even believing in the power of one's self to survive a catastrophe is also joining a partner with Allah.
Note: Even some Muslims nowadays go to visit shrines of persons known to be righteous to offer their gratitude. (A side note: Remember that the Prophet Muhammad in an authenticated saying prohibited to plaster (whitewash = tajsseess 'in Arabic') the tomb or to sit on it or to make a building upon it. (Source: Riyadh AlSaliheen Min Kalam Sayed AlMursaleen, In Arabic, page 480)
Words: LiYakforou = Let them disbelieve - Let them be ungrateful, BiMa Ataynahum = What We granted them, FaTamattaou = Enjoy the temporary enjoyment, FaSawfa = For soon.

Q: What words should one emphasize in his supplication to Allah to grant him his wish?
Note: Please read first the translation, done yesterday, of the preceding Line 10 in Surat Maryam.
A: Then he (Zacharia) went out to his people from the sanctuary (prayer place)* and he signalled to them to utter the glorification** (Praise of Allah) morning and evening.
Translation of: Ayah 11, Surat Maryam. (19:11)
* After Zacharia got the good news of soon having a son called Yahya (= John the Baptist).
** (= AlTasbeeh) in any form ('Subhana Allah' = Glory to Allah) or ('Subhana Allah waBiHamdihi' = Glory and Praise to Allah).
Note: An example of a time when Prophet Jonah (Yunus) glorified Allah a lot to save him.
Words: FaAwha = So he signalled - So he symbolized.

Q: In life during disasters why do people not get resuced by whoever they join as a partner with Allah? (Note the question originally was : In life when do those who knowingly or unknowingly join a partner with Allah call Allah for help?)
Note: Please read first the translation of the preceding Line 63 in Surat AlMo'minoun.
A: Until when We (Allah) inflict punishment on their persons living in ease and luxury suddenly they cry out for help; Do not cry out for help - today indeed >from Us (Allah) you are not going to be rescued (= Minna La Tunsaroun)*.
Translation of: Ayat 64 - 65, Surat AlMo'minoun.
* A disaster can be a test or punishment from Allah. When someone joins a partner with Allah Allah leaves him and what he joined. Neither can those whom people join as partners with Allah come to your aid to rescue you.
Note: Remember what a lot of times happen after persons are saved from tragedies. For example in South East Asian countries some Muslims, when saved, make the intention to visit graves of persons deemed righteous to pay gratitude to them.
Words: Akhathna BilAthab = We inflicted punishment, La Taj'arou = Do not call out, La Tunsaroun = You will not be rescued.

Q: Why should we regularly pray to Allah to save us when Allah's Wrath descends on people who go to limits to gain Allah's Wrath?
A: Say (command to Prophet Muhammad) my God when you show me what* they (disbelievers) are being promised; My God then do not make me with the transgressing (against Allah) people; And indeed of showing you what We (Allah) are promising them We are certainly Capable.
Translation of: Ayat 93 - 95, Surat AlMo'minoun. (23:93-95)
* Allah's Promise of punishment in life. (refer to Surat Maryam)
An example of Allah's Wrath. (refer to Surat Hood)
Words: Imma = When, Turiyanni = You show me, FaLa Taj'alni = Then do not make me, AlDhalimeen = The trangressing community - The trangressing people - People who do injustice to themselves (by disobeying Allah), LaQadiroun = Certainly Capable.

Q:When we supplicate to Allah what should we pray for beyond Allah's forgiveness?
A: And say (command to Prophet Muhammad) my God grant Forgiveness and grant Mercy* and You are the Best of the merciful.
Translation of: Ayah 117, Surat AlMo'minoun.
* Allah is the Most Merciful. In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: Allah had divided Mercy into 100 parts. He kept 99 parts and allowed 1 part among all creatures. With this part they become kind and merciful towards others. Source: Riyadh AlSaliheen Min Kalam Sayed AlMursaleen, in Arabic, page 151.
An example of Allah's Mercy in life.
Note: The transliteration of the supplication in Arabic is : "Rubbi Eghfir wErhum waAnta Khair AlRahimeen".
Words: Eghfir = Grant Forgiveness, Erhum = Grant Forgiveness, Khair = Best, AlRahimeen = The merciful.

Q: What attitude you should add to your supplication (= Dua') to Allah?
A: For those who believed and did the righteous deeds and they humbled themselves - those are the companions of Paradise - they in it are remaining for eternity.
Translation of: Ayah 23, Surat Hood. (11:23)
Words: Akhbatou = Humbled, Ashab = Companions.

Q: Why do Muslims who are certain about their Faith and they put their trust in Allah feel tranquility in their hearts?
A: And from people who worships Allah on the fence (undecided) - so if fortune comes his way he feels tranquil with it and if an ordeal trial* befalls him he turns on his face (goes backward away from Faith) - (Allah says) he has incurred loss in this world** and the Other World and that is the unmistakable loss.
Translation of: Ayah 11, Surat AlHajj. (22:11)
* Misfortune from Allah to try his Faith.
** Strong Faith in Allah leads to peace of mind.
Words: Ala Harf = On the fence - Undecided, Etma'anna = He feels tranquil - Becomes contented, Fitnah = Ordeal trial - Difficult trial, Enqalaba Ala Wajhihi = He turns on his face - He goes backward, Khasira = He incurred loss, AlKhusran = The Loss, AlMubeen = The unmistakable - The Evident.

Q: Why should you confidently supplicate to Allah for forgiveness and granting of good things?
A: The Lord of Mercy (AlRahman).
Translation of: Ayah 1, Surat AlRahman. (55:1)
Note: Why should you never be desperate of Allah's Mercy?
Note: 'AlRaheem' = The Most Merciful. (So Allah is 'AlRahman AlRaheem = Lord or God Who has Mercy and grants Mercy'.
Note: Translation of lines 1 - 9 in Chapter AlRahman in the Qur'an.
Words: AlRahman = Lord of Mercy.

Q: Why is it a must for Muslims to pray to Allah for peace for all of Allah's messengers?
A: Glory* to your God (Allah) - God of Might - above what (partner) they ascribe (to Him); And peace be upon those sent as messengers (of Allah); And Praise be to Allah - God of the inhabitants of all worlds.
Translation of: Ayat 180-182, Surat AlSaffat. (37:180-182)
* Allah is High Above what people ascribe to Him.
Note: In a summary of a saying of the Prophet Muhammad: Who repeats at the end of each prayer the three Ayat (180-182) in Surat AlSaffat (37) then he has measured out for himslf reward with the biggest content measurement. Source: Tafseer Ibn Kastheer, volume 4, page 68.
Words: Rubbi AlIzzah = God of all Might - God of Self-Esteem, Salam Ala AlMursaleen = Peace be upon those sent as messengers (of Allah), Rubbu AlAlameen = God of the inhabitants of all worlds - God of all people.

Q: What can happen to those Muslims are known to fear Allah but committed sins and then they stopped completely and asked Allah sincerely for forgiveness?
Note: The translation of the preceding Line 135 in Surat AlImran.
A: Those (who fear Allah*) their reward is Forgiveness from their God and Gardens underneath which the rivers flow remaining for eternity in them and how excellent is the reward of the (good) doers.
Translation of: Ayah 136, Surat AlImran (3:136)
* How does one become among "= AlMuttaqeen" - those who fear Allah? (Surat AlAnkaboot)
As a Muslim (submitting to Allah as the Only and One God) fortify yourself with Islamic morals (based on the Qur'an and the Prophet's character), do not do bad deeds intentionally and do intentionally good deeds and you will become with Allah's Willing among those who protect themselves by fearing Allah = AlMuttaqeen.
Words: Ula'ikah = Those, Ni'ma = How excellent.

Q: What psychological punishment do Muslims call upon Allah to save them from on the Day of Judgement?
A: Our God indeed whomever You admit to the Fire (of Hell) then You have disgraced him and for the transgressors (unjust "ungrateful" to Allah) there are no supporters.
Translation of: Ayah 192, Surat AlImran. (3:192)
Note: The translation of the succeeding Ayat 193-194 in surat AlImran.
Words: Tudkhil = You admit, FaQed Akhzaytah = Then You have disgraced him - shamed him - humiliated him, Ansar = Supporters.

Q: When in Paradise, with Allah's Permission, in whose land you will be staying?
A: (Prophet Abraham '= Ibraheem' supplicates to Allah) And make me among the INHERITORS of the Garden of Bliss (Afflunence).
Translation of: Ayah 85, Surat AlShuara'. (26:85)
Note: The translation of the preceding Lines 83-84 in Surat AlShuara'.
Words: Ejalni = Make me, Min Warasthati = Among the inheritors - One of those who inherit, AlNa'eem = Bliss - Affluence.

Q: Why should believers not call upon Allah for forgiveness for disbelievers?
Note: Prophet Abraham (Ibraheem) prayed to Allah for forgiveness for his disbelieving father then when he knew it is not allowed he stopped. (in Surat AlTawbah)
A: (Prophet Abraham prays to Allah before knowing it is not allowed) And grant Forgiveness to my father for he was among those who went astray (away from Allah's Straight Path which leads to Paradise) .
Translation of: Ayah 86, Surat AlShuara'. (26:86)
Note: No praying for forgiveness for polytheists too. (in Surat AlTawbah, Ayah 113)
(Polytheists = 'Mushrikoun or Mushrikeen' are among disbelievers = 'Kafiroun or Kafireen'.
Words: Eghfir = Grant Forgiveness, Aldhaleen = Those who went astray.

Q: In his prayer against Pharaoh why did Prophet Moses mention Pharaoh's wealth?
A: And Moses (Prophet Moosa) said our God indeed you gave Pharaoh (Phiroun) and his assembly magnificent things (zeenatan) and wealth* in this life - our God so that they mislead (with it) from Your Path - our God destroy utterly their wealth and harden* their hearts so that they do not believe until they see** the painful punishment.
Translation of: Ayah 88, Surat Yunus. (10:88)
* Allah gives much to those who want only the life of this world and hardens their hearts so that they do not find Allah's Guidance (because they do not want to be guided) (refer to Surat AlAn'am)
** Pharaoh himself said he is a believer when he saw death. (refer to Surat Yunus)
Words: Zeenatan = Magnificent things - Magnificent features - Splendor, LiYudhillou = So that they mislead, Etmes = Obliterate - Destroy utterly, Ushdud = Harden.

Q: What was Prophet Moses commanded to remain on after his prayer to Allah to destroy Pharaoh?
A: He (Allah) said your (Prophet Moses' and Aaron's) supplication has been answered* so remain on the Straight Path (of Allah) and do not follow the path of those who have no knowledge (disbelievers).
Translation of: Ayah 89, Surat Yunus. (10:89)
* It is said that Pharaoh remained after Prophet Moses' call against him forty years. Another saying he remained for forty days. Source: Tafseer Ibn Kashteer, volum2, page 625.
Words: Ujeebat = Answered, Da'watukuma = Your call - Your supplication, FeStaqeema = So remain on the Straight Path.

Q: What should we first do to avoid what can harm us?
A: Say (command to Prophet Muhammad) I seek refuge with (Allah) the God of daybreak; Against the evil (wrongdoing) of what* He created.
Translation of: Ayat 1 - 2, Surat AlFalaq. (113:1-2)
* Against the evil of sins, evil of souls, evil of desire, evil of intentions and deeds. Source: "Safwat AlBayan liMa'ani AlQuran" by Egypt's ex-Mufti AlSheikh Hassanain Muhammad Makhlouf, in Arabic, page 833.
Words: A'outhu = I seek refuge - shelter, AlFalaq = Daybreak - Dawn, Sharri = The evil - The wrongdoing - The harm, Khalaqa = He created.

Q: What special time of the day we seek refuge with Allah against the harm in it?
A: And (we seek refuge) against the evil (wrongdoing) of dark of night (= Ghasiq) when it is deeply set.
Translation of: Ayah, Surat AlFalaq. (113:3)
Words: Ghasiq = Dark of night, Waqab = Is deeply set - Settles.

Q: What is an example of witchcraft acts which Muslims are warned of?
A: And (we seek refuge) against the evil (wrongdoing) of the women who spit on the knots*.
Translation of: Ayah 4, Surat AlFalaq. (113:4)
* In exercising a form of Arabian witchcraft in which women tie knots in a cord and spit upon them with an imprecation (spoken curse). Source: A Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic, Hans Wehr, Page 1152.
Note: Some Muslim persons especially children in villages wear leather charms (= Ta'weetha) around their necks without really seeing what is in them. They commonly think Qur'anic Ayat in them. Once I witnessed the cutting and opening of a leather charm that belonged to a dead Muslim person. Calling on names of angels 'Angels Gabriel (Jibreel), Michael (Mikaeel) and Israfil' was written. This is partnership with Allah (= Shirk). (refer to Surat Saba').
Words: AlNaffasthati = The women who spit, AlUqad = The knots.

Q: What feeling we should seek refuge with Allah to keep us away from it?
A: And (we seek refuge with Allah) against the evil (wrongdoing) of an envious person (= Hasid*) when he envies.
Translation of: Ayah 5, Surat AlFalaq. (113:5)
* 'Hasad' means 'Envy' while 'Ghiyrah' means 'Jealousy' in English. In envy there is an indication for a wish to remove the other person's good luck or fortune. In Jealousy a person wants to have similar to the other person's good luck.
Words: Hasid = Envious person, Hasad = He envies.