The Book of Jasher (Isaac’s child bride)

Here’s something very interesting. It is well known from the Bible, that many Book are mentioned which are not part of the cannon. One of those books mentioned is the Book of Jasher. You may wonder why are you specifically mentioning this Book? well there is a good reason behind it.  Now the Book of Jasher is mentioned twice in the Old Testament

So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, Until the nation avenged themselves of their enemies. Is it not written in the book of Jashar? And the sun stopped in the middle of the sky and did not hasten to go down for about a whole day. (Joshua 10:13)

(Also he bade them teach the children of Judah the use of the bow: behold, it is written in the book of Jasher.) (1 Samuel 1:18)

The of Jasher is mentioned by two key figures of the Old Testament, Joshua and King David. Book of Joshua seems clear that the author is asking the readers to verify what really happened. Joshua speaks to the Lord and he orders the “sun stood still and the moon to stand still”. Something as miraculous as that was also recorded in the Book of Joshua. King David instructs Saul and Jonathan to teach the children of Judah “the song of bow” again found in the Book of Jasher.

If the authors are keen for the readers to cross reference those events or teaching from the Book of Jasher, then this book must hold some sort of credibility otherwise they would not have urged readers to check. If the Book of Jasher’s information matches which Joshua and king David’s writing then we can say the Book of Jasher is reliable enough to confirm those events.

The question is does it stop here? If the Book of Jasher is so reliable, that the Bible (supposed word of God believed by millions of Christians and Jews) makes mention of what other information is there that we can check up on? Well would really shock you! As well as finding the Sun and moon stopping as mentioned in the Book of Joshua 10:13 in the Book of Jasher. We also find the story of Isaac and Rebecca, like what we find in the Book of Genesis. Below we read from the Book of Genesis  Isaac weds Rebecca :

Now Isaac had returned from Beer-lahai-roi and was dwelling in the Negeb.  And Isaac went out to meditate in the field toward evening. And he lifted up his eyes and saw, and behold, there were camels coming.  And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she dismounted from the camel and said to the servant, “Who is that man, walking in the field to meet us?” The servant said, “It is my master.” So she took her veil and covered herself.  And the servant told Isaac all the things that he had done.  Then Isaac brought her into the tent of Sarah his mother and took Rebekah, and she became his wife, and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death. (Genesis 24:62-67)

When Isaac was forty years old, he married Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel the Aramean from Paddan-aram and the sister of Laban the Aramean. (Genesis 25:20)

notice how it reads Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebecca. There is no mention of Rebecca’s age, one may ask what difference would it make by mentioning Rebecca’s age? the difference would be so big that Christians may have to rethink on how to debate with Muslims on specific issues. Without diverting let’s read what the Book of Jasher say’s on the same event.

37. And the Lord hearkened to the voice of Eliezer, for the sake of his servant Abraham, and he happened to meet with the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, brother to Abraham, and Eliezer came to her house.
38. And Eliezer related to them all his concerns, and that he was Abraham’s servant, and they greatly rejoiced at him.
39. And they all blessed the Lord who brought this about, and they gave him, Rebecca, the daughter of Bethuel, for a wife for Isaac.
40. And the young woman was of very comely appearance, she was a virgin, and Rebecca was ten years old in those days.
41. And Bethuel and Laban and his children made a feast on that night, and Eliezer and his men came and ate and drank and rejoiced there on that night.
42. And Eliezer rose up in the morning, he and the men that were with him, and he called to the whole household of Bethuel, saying, send me away that I may go to my master; and they rose up and sent away Rebecca and her nurse Deborah, the daughter if UZ and they gave her silver and gold , men servants and maid servants, and they blessed her.
43. And they sent Eliezer away with his men; and the servants took Rebecca, and he went and returned to his master to the land of Canaan.
44. And Isaac took Rebecca and she became his wife, and he brought her into the tent.
45. And Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebecca, the daughter of his uncle Bethuel, for a wife. (THE BOOK OF JASHAR 24:37-45)

According to the Book of Jasher which is suggest by Joshua and King David as a reliable book, Rebecca was 10 years old when she Married Isaac. Chapter 24 verse 40 explicitly says Rebecca was 10 years old.. Note the age of Rebecca is not mentioned in the Book of Genesis, which further could support the Book of Jasher as giving an accurate age. had Genesis given us an age different to what Jasher said then one could dismiss it, but since we don’t have no age mentioned he could use Jasher as our source. Notice how the age of Isaac is the same as what Genesis says it seem clear that the author of Genesis deliberately chose not to give Rebecca’s age.

  

Some Christians may object to this saying since this book is not part of the cannon we cannot accept it.

If that’s the case Christians must accept that Joshua and King David where referring to a book which was meaningless and held no credibility at all. Why would they make mention of a book if it held no credibility at all? It’s absurd for the author to tells the readers go check on a book which is unreliable. The Bible which is supposed to be the word of God made mention of a book which trusted at all. Why would the Bible mention a section of the book and not expect us to read the entirety to gain more information?

Others have said the Book of Jasher means “the Book of the Upright,” or “Righteous.” It was in all probability a collection, rhythmical in form and poetical in diction, of various pieces celebrating the heroes of the Hebrew nation and their achievements. The word itself Jasher, or Jashar, is considered to be an appellation of the Elect Nation, nearly equivalent to “Jeshurun”( Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges commentary )

It doesn’t matter what the Book of Jasher means, the contents written inside the book is what matters. Even if it was written by a guy called harry it still doesn’t change the fact that Joshua and king David took it as a reliable book, which not only was used as proof also was taught to the children of Judah.

From all this we can conclude that Isaac married Rebecca when she was 10 years old. In the language Isaac had a child bride.

The best of supplication is the supplication of Arafah

Is it permissible for a woman to slaughter an animal?

Confirmation That Judaism And Christianity Are Forms Of Disbelief : Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen

Question: One of the preachers in one of the mosques in Europe claimed that it is not allowed to consider Jews and Christians disbelievers. You know – may Allaah preserve you – that most of the people who attend the mosques in Europe have very little knowledge. We fear that statements like this one will become widespread. Therefore, we request from you a complete and clear answer to this question.

Answer: I say: The statement that came from that man is misguidance. In fact, it can be blasphemy. This is because Allaah has declared that Jews and Christians are disbelievers (kuffaar) in His Book. Allaah has said,

“And the Jews say, ‘Ezra is the son of Allaah,’ and the Christians say, ‘The Messiah is the son of Allaah.’ This is a saying from their mouths. They imitate the saying of the disbelievers of old. Allaah’s curse be on them, how they are deluded away from the truth. They took their rabbis and their monks as lords besides Allaah and [they also took as Lord] the Messiah, son of Mary. But they were commanded only to worship none but One God. Praise and Glory be to Him, [far above is He] from having the partners they associate with Him.” [at-Taubah 9:30-31]

That shows that they are polytheists who associate partners with Allaah. In other verses, Allaah has made it clear that they are disbelievers:

“Surely in disbelief are they who say that Allaah is the Messiah, son of Mary.” [al-Maidah 5:17 and 72]

“Surely, disbelievers are those who said, ‘Allaah is the third of the three [in a Trinity].” [al-Maidah 5:73]

“Those among the Children of Israel who disbelieved were cursed by the tongue of David and Jesus, son of Mary.” [al-Maidah 5:87]

“Those who disbelieve among the People of the Book and the idolaters will abide in the Fire of Hell.” [al-Bayyinah 98:6]

Many verses and hadith express the same meaning. The one who rejects the idea that the Jews and the Christians who do not believe in Muhammad [peace be upon him] and deny him are disbelievers is, in fact, denying what Allaah has said. Denying what Allaah has said is blasphemy. If anyone has any doubt concerning them being disbelievers, then he himself is also a disbeliever.

Glory be to Allaah!

How could that man be pleased to say that it is not allowed to say that they are disbelievers when they themselves say that Allaah is one of a Trinity? Their Creator Himself has declared that they are disbelievers.

How could this man not be pleased to call them disbelievers when they actually say, “Jesus is the son of God” or “the hand of Allaah is tied,” and “Allaah is poor and we are rich”?

How could this man not be pleased to call them disbelievers and apply the word of disbelief (kufr) to them in general when they describe their Lord in such ways that are nothing but cursing and abusing Allaah?

I call upon that man to repent to Allaah and to read Allaah’s words, “They wish that you should compromise (in religion out of courtesy) with them, so that they (too) would compromise with you.” [al-Qalam (68):9]

He should make it clear to everyone that they are disbelievers and that they are the inhabitants of the Hell-fire. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said,

“By the One in whose hand my soul is, no Jew or Christian of this community hears about me – that is from the community of people from the time of the Prophet (peace be upon him) until the Day of Judgment – and then does not follow me – or he said does not believe in what I brought – except that he is from the inhabitants of the Hell-fire.” [Saheeh Muslim]

The one who made such a statement must repent to his Lord because of this great falsehood he has stated. He must make a clear announcement that they are disbelievers and that they are inhabitants of the Hell-fire. He must also announce that it is obligatory upon them to follow the unlettered Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). he is the one that the Jews and the Christians know and they know him like they know their own sons. Allaah has stated,

“Those who follow the Messenger, the illiterate Prophet whom they find written about with them in the Torah and the Gospel, he commands what is right and forbids what is evil. He allows them the good things and forbids for them disdainful things. He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the fetters that were upon them. So those who believe in him, honor him, help him, and follow the light which has been sent down with him, it is they who will be successful.” [al-Araf 7:157]

He is the one of whom Jesus, son of Mary (peace be upon him) gave glad tidings. Jesus said, as His Lord states in the Quran,

“O Israel, I am the Messenger of Allaah for you confirming the Torah (which came) before me, and giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name is Ahmad [one of the names of the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him]. But when he came to them with clear proofs, they said, ‘This is clear magic.’” [as-Saff 61:6]

When the one, Ahmad, who was promised came to them with clear signs, they said that it was nothing but magic. By this, we can refute those Christians who say that the one Jesus promised was named Ahmad and not Muhammad. We say to that that Allaah said, “When he came with clear proofs,” and none has come to you after Jesus except Muhammad (peace be upon him). Muhammad is Ahmad and Allaah inspired Jesus to call Muhammad Ahmad. This is because Ahmad is a name from the root meaning, “to praise,” and the name itself means, “One who praises Allaah more than others.” Therefore, [Muhammad (peace be upon him)] is the most praiseworthy of Allaah among all peoples…

I further say: If anyone claims that there is a religion on earth other than Islam that is acceptable to Allaah, then the person who made that claim is a disbeliever and there is no doubt about his disbelief. This is because Allaah has said in His Book, “Whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted from him and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers.” [ali-Imran 3:85]. Allaah has also said, “Truly, the religion in the sight of Allaah is Islam” [ali-Imran 3:19]. Another verse states, “This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion” [al-Maida 5:3]

Based on that – and I repeat it for a third time – the person who made that statement [mentioned in the question] must repent to Allaah, Most High. And he must also make it clear to all the people that those Jews and Christians are disbelievers. This is so because the proof has been established against them, they have received the message but they have refused to believe.

The Jews have been described as those who have earned Allaah’s wrath. That is because they knew the truth and chose to go against it. The Christians have been described as those who have gone astray. This is because they sought the truth but were misled from it. Now, all of them have knowledge of the truth and recognize it. However, they go against it. Therefore, they all deserve to have the wrath of Allaah upon them. I call all those Jews and Christians to believe in Allaah and all of His Messengers. I call upon them to follow the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This is what they have been ordered to do in their own books. Allaah states in the Quran,

“My Mercy embraces all things. That (Mercy) I shall ordain for those who are God-fearing and give zakat, and those who believe in Our revelations. Those who follow the Messenger, the illiterate Prophet whom they find written about with them in the Torah and the Gospel, he commands what is right and forbids what is evil. He allows them the good things and forbids for them disdainful things. He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the fetters that were upon them. So those who believe in him, honor him, help him, and follow the light which has been sent down with him, it is they who will be successful. Say (O Muhammad): O Mankind! Verily, I am sent to all of you as the Messenger of Allaah, to whom belongs the heavens and the earth. There is no true God but He. It is He who gives life and causes death. So believe in Allaah and His Messenger, the unlettered, who believes in Allaah and His Words. And follow him so that you may be guided.” [al-Araf 7:156-158].

[By having such faith, those converts from Judaism and Christianity] shall receive their reward twice. The Messenger of Allaah (peace be upon him) said, “There are three people who will receive their rewards twice: A person from the People of the Book [Jews and Christians] who believed in his prophet and believed in Muhammad…” [al-Bukhari and Muslim].

I have also found in the law book al-Iqna`, in the section on apostasy, where the author has stated,

“One who does not consider as a disbeliever one who follows a religion other than Islam, such as the Christians, or who has doubt about their disbelief or who approves of their way himself is a disbeliever.”

And he quotes Ibn Taimiya as saying,

“[The following is] a disbeliever:

Whoever believes that churches are the houses of Allaah in which he He is worshipped or who thinks that what the Jews and Christians do are valid acts of worship of Allaah and obedience to Him and His Messenger, or loves or approves of what they do, or aids them in having such places and establishing their religion, and he does so thinking that is a way of getting closer to Allaah or worshipping Allaah.”

He also stated,

“If someone believes that visiting the Jews and the Christians in their places of worship is an act that brings him closer to Allaah, then he is an apostate.”

These statements support what was stated in the text of the answer. This is a matter concerning which there is no room for doubt. And help is sought only with Allaah.

This question was responded by Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen, Fatawa Islamiya, vol. 1, p. 87, Darussalam publishers

Was ‘Eesaa ‘alaihissalaam Allaah’s Word? Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen

With regards to the description of ‘Eesaa ‘alaihissalaam being described as “His Word which He conveyed to Maryam”[1]  the Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen rahimahullaah states:

Allaah applied the (term) “Word” to him because he ‘alaihissalaam was created by means of a word. So the hadeeth is not taken upon its apparent (literal) meaning, since ‘Eesaa ‘alaihissalaam was not a word because he used to eat and drink and pass urine and open his bowels. And all the (usual) human situations would occur to him.

Allaah, the Most High, states:

Indeed the example of ‘Eesaa with Allaah is just as the example of Aadam. He (Allaah) created him from dust then He said to him, “Be!” and he was. [Soorah aale ‘Imraan (3) aayah 59]

And ‘Eesaa ‘alaihissalaam was not the Word of Allaah because the Speech of Allaah is an Attribute existing with Him and not separate and distinct from Him.

As for ‘Eesaa, then he was a being separate and distinct from Allaah subhaanahu ; he would come and go and eat food and drink.

(Al qawl ul mufeed (1/73) of Shaykh Muhammad ibn Saalih al ‘Uthaymeen rahimahullaah, translated by Nasser ibn Najam)

[1] Hadeeth reported by Al Bukhaaree (4453) and Muslim (28)

What do the Muslims believe about Jesus the son of Mary? – Explained by Shaykh Uthaymeen

Question 51:

What is the creed of the Muslims with regard to ‘Eesaa, son of Maryam? Also what is the ruling as to the saying that he was killed and crucified.

The Answer by Shaykh ibn Uthaymeen:

The belief of the Muslims regarding ‘Eesaa, son of Maryam, may Allaah’s Salaah and Salaam be upon him, is that he is one of the noble Messengers. In fact he is one of the five Messengers foremost in their resolve. They are Muhammad (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam), Ibraaheem, Moosaa, Noah and ‘Eesaa (may Allaah’s Salaah and Salaam be upon them all). Allaah, The Most High, mentioned them in three places in His Noble Book. So, He Said in soorat al-Ahzaab :

And (remember) when We took from the Prophets their covenant, and from you (O Muhammad (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam), and from Noah, Ibraaheem (Abraham), Moosaa (Moses), and ‘Eesaa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary); We took from them a strong covenant. [Qur’aan, soorat al-Ahzaab (33): 7].

Also in sooart ash-Shoora, Allaah Said:

Your Rabb (Allaah) prescribed for Noah (Nooh), and that which We revealed to you (O Muhammad: Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam), and that which He prescribed for Ibraaheem, Moosaa, ‘Eesaa–that you should establish the Religion, acting upon what is prescribed, and not split into sects with regard to it. [Qur’aan, soorat ash-Shooraa (42): 13].

We belieive that ‘Eesaa (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) is a human from the children of Adam created from a mother without a father, and that he is a slave-worshipper of Allaah and His Messenger. So he is a slave, one who is not to be worshipped, and a Messenger, not to be denied. And that he does not possess any of the qualities of Rubbobiyyah. Rather he is as Allaah has Said:

‘Eesaa is not but a slave of Ours whom We Granted Our Favour to him (blessed with guidance and Eemaan,) and We made him a sign to the children of Israel. [Qur’aan, soorat azZukhruf (43): 59].

And that he (may Allaah’s Salaah and Salaam be upon him) did not command his people to appoint him and his mother as gods besides Allaah. In fact, he told that which Allaah has Commanded him with:

Worship Allaah, my Rabb and your Rabb. [Qur’aan, soorat alMaa’idah (5): 117].

And that he, ‘Eesaa (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) was Created by the Word of Allaah (Be!) as Allaah, The Most High, Says:

Verily, the likeness of ‘Eesaa before Allaah, (in Allaah’s Sight,) is the likeness of Adam. He Created him from dust, then (He) Said to him: “Be”- and he was. [Qur’aan, soorat aal- ‘Imraan (3): 59].

And that there is no Prophet between him (‘Eesaa) and Muhammad (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam), as Allaah, The Most High, Says:

And (remember) when ‘Eesaa, son of Maryam, said: ‘O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Allaah unto you, confirming the Torah (which came) before me, and giving glad tiding of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad.’ But when he (Ahmed, i.e. Muhammad Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) came to them with clear proofs, they said: “This is plain magic”. [Qur’aan, soorat as-Saf (61): 6].

And no one’s faith will be complete until he believes that ‘Eesaa is Allaah’s slave and Messenger, and that he is free from and high above what the Jews described him with, – they said he was son of a prostitute conceived by way of fornication. We seek refuge in Allaah from this. Allaah, The Most High, cleared him of all of that. Also the Muslims disassociate themselves from the way of the Christians who went astray in their understanding of the reality with regard to ‘Eesaa, son of Maryam, since they have appointed him and his mother as gods besides Allaah. And some of them said: “He is the son of Allaah,” and others said: “Allaah is the third of three (Trinity).”

As far as him (‘Eesaa) being killed and “crucified,” then Allaah, The One free from all imperfection and The Most High, categorically and decisively denied that he was killed or crucified. So He, The Most Mighty and Most Magnificent, Said:

But they (the Jews) they killed him not, nor crucified him, but the resemblance of Jesus was put over another man (and they killed that man), and those who differ therein are full of doubts, they have no certain knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely they killed him not. But Allaah raised him up (with his body and soul) unto Himself (and he is in the heavens). And Allaah is All-Powerful, AllWise. And there is none from the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians), but must believe in him (i.e. ‘Eesaa, as a Messenger of Allaah and a human being) before his (‘Eesaa’s, or a Jew’s or a Christian’s) death. And on the Day of Resurrection, he (‘Eesaa) will be a witness against them.” [Qur’aan, soorat an-Nisaa’ (4): 157-159].

Therefore anyone who believes that ‘Eessa, son of Maryam, may Allaah’s Salaah and Salaam be upon him, was killed and crucifixion then he has denied the Qur’aan. And anyone who denies the Qur’aan is an unbeliever. So we believe that ‘Eessa (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) was neither killed nor crucified. But we say that the Jews drew on themselves the sin of killing and crucifixion, since they claimed that they killed ‘Eesaa, son of Mary, the Messenger of Allaah, while in reality they killed him not. Rather they killed someone who was put there to resemble him, because Allaah put the resemblance of ‘Eesaa over a man from amongst them, and they killed and crucified that man. And then they said that they killed ‘Eesaa, son of Mary, the Messenger of Allaah. Thus the Jews drew upon themselves the sin of killing and that of crucifixion in their testimony concerning themselves. And as to ‘Eessa, son of Maryam, Allaah, The Most High, cleared him of that, and protected him and raised him up unto Himself in the heavens.

And he shall descend to earth at the end of time (before the establishment of the Hour), and he will judge by the Sharee’ah of Muhammad (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam), then he will die on earth and will be buried in it; then he will be raised (ascend) just like the rest of the children of Aadam, since Allaah, The Most High, Says:

Thereof (the earth) We Created you, and into it We shall return you, and from it We shall bring you out once again. [Qur’aan, soorat Taahaa (20): 55].

He (Allaah) Said: Therein (the earth) you will live, and therein you shall die, and from it you shall be brought out (i.e. resurrected). [Qur’aan, soorat al-A’raaf (7): 25].

Translated by Dr Saleh as Saleh rahimahullaah

Women : The Greatest Temptation – Shaykh Uthaymeen

A FRIDAY SERMON BY: Muḥammad Ibn Ṣāliḥ al-‘Uthaymīn [1]

Oh Muslims, there is a certain well known pastime of tribulation and temptation into which many people fall today. Unfortunately, this issue does not negatively affect only the individuals who fall into it. Rather, its consequences affect others as Allah (تعالى) says:

Beware of a trial which will not afflict only those who have transgressed among you exclusively, and know that Allah is severe in penalty. [2]

Muslims, the tribulations to which I refer are temptations pertaining to (the unlawful admiration of) women, and it is such trials about which the messenger (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said:

I will not leave behind a trial more harmful to men than (the temptations of) women.[3]

It is a trial which the shameful ones readily partake in, one that affects their desires, blinds their eyes, and destroys their judgment. This eventually leads them to following women around in the streets and shopping malls, flirting with them, whistling at them and whispering to them. They may even go so far as to touch or grope women in public as if they are completely unconcerned with others around them. Perhaps they see others as insignificant as if they were cattle. This is because such people are immersed in their own lust. They belittle morality and they defy societal norms. They are fearless before Allah (Azza wa Jal) as they choose ways (to support their desires) other than the respectable ways of sensible people.

We must, as a believing Muslim people, renounce these activities perpetrated by such immoral individuals. We detest these types of behaviors because they contradict the characteristics and qualities of believers in Allah and the last day. We disapprove of such actions because they are means leading one closer to adultery or fornication about which Allah (تعالى)  says:

And do not approach adultery, fornication. Certainly, it has always been immoral and an evil way.[4]

We condemn this behavior (of chasing after women, watching them desirously, flirting with them, etc.) because it infringes upon personal safety and security, and it could lead to community fear, panic (among women), and societal disorder. And we criticize it because it may inevitably bring about a swift, overwhelming and inclusive punishment. Allaah (azza wa jal) says:

When we intend to destroy a town, we command its affluent ones, but they defiantly disobey. So the word comes into effect upon it, and we destroy it with complete destruction. [5]

Here, “We command” is a type of universal responsibility befitting those of affluence and power (to enforce change in society). Allah mentions the “affluent ones” because it is often the rich and powerful who immerse themselves in sin. And if they refuse to change, “The word comes into effect upon it, and we destroy it with complete destruction.” After mentioning His punishment for adultery and fornication (among other sins), Allah then speaks about the exception, those who will avoid punishment, the true worshippers of the Most-Merciful:

Whoever does that incurs sin. The punishment will be multiplied upon him and he will abide therein disgraced, except for those who repent, believe, and do righteous deeds. For them, Allah will replace their bad deeds with good ones and Allah is ever forgiving, merciful. [6]

Oh Muslims, You who try to safeguard your dignity and protect the women in your care, immoral qualities and shameful behaviors such as these to which some people degenerate—and such behavior was not prevalent in our society until recently—weaken your religion, weaken your honorable protectiveness of women, and spread the means leading to tribulations and societal problems.

Weakening of One’s Religion

As for the weakening of one’s religion, these people who follow women around, being tested with admiring and flirting with them, had they been strong in religion, they would not dare do the kinds of things they do with women. Such actions result in their sinning against Allah (azza wa jal)  and preoccupying themselves with and giving preference to the creation instead of the creator. Allah (azza wa jal) says:

Tell the believing men to lower their gazes and protect their private parts. That is purer for them. Allah is certainly aware of everything they do. [7]

The Weakening of One’s Honorable Protectiveness of Women

As for the weakening of one’s honorable protectiveness – the praiseworthy type of respectful jealousy one should have of women – individuals afflicted with this temptation to “chase women,” had they had the complete respectful honor for women, they would not dare chase after the women of their brothers (in faith), the women (sisters, daughters, mothers) of their fellow citizens, thereby putting those women into the same types of temptations and tribulations. The type of religious brotherhood we have obliges men to respect and honor his brothers’ womenfolk and those of his fellow citizens, having the same kind of commendable jealousy for their honor and chastity as he has for his own female relatives.

I would ask these men: Would you be happy to know that someone chases after your own wife out of desire for her? Or your daughter, your sister, or other female relatives? Would you like people flirting with them? If he would hate such behavior with his own women, why would he allow his own desires to tempt him into doing the same things with other women? I warn these individuals who have been afflicted with such admiration of women from the very actions which would allow another man to gain influence over his own women. I advise them to prevent his relatives from becoming afflicted with such trials.

The Spreading of Tribulations & Societal Problems

The tribulations and temptations to admire and chase after women are many. Such behavior (because of its popularity and influence) leads to various forms of widespread media, including audio, visual, and written publications, being placed in the hands of our young men and women. They have newspapers and magazines filled with images and articles that arouse their desires, stimulate their emotions, and kindle the fires of passion. Even worse than this media is that which comes to our land from abroad, or sometimes even from our own citizens. We ask Allah to guide them and to protect us from their evil.

Another way this tribulation may spread is by the very blessings which Allah has bestowed on this land: the comfort of its society, its excess wealth, good food, and the overall security and prosperity of our society. Oftentimes, such luxuries lead one’s heart to become empty and the body to become idle from inactivity or unemployment. This is why you almost always find these young men to be one of two types. They are often unsuccessful men who have no careers to occupy their time or attention. They live off the prosperity of other wealthy, successful men. They neither know a skill, nor try to learn one. They do not work towards a specific occupation or official career. Thus, his desires get the better of him and leave him in a perpetual downfall.

Or they may often be men who may work but they waste the results of their labor, wasting their earnings, unconcerned with its value or what results from the bad consequences of their actions. But as for a dignified, determined believer, he does not allow his personality to deteriorate to the point of such shallow yet despicable behavior. Other ways these temptations spread is what some women of immoral conduct themselves perpetrate in their choice of clothing, their appearance, and lustful behaviors. By these choices, they are inclined to promote this type of tribulation. Such conduct was foreign to our righteous predecessors. Some women go to shopping centers to flaunt themselves, to exhibit their beauty with the most attractive clothing they own. They may then throw over it a thin cloak but one that might be shortened or raised up so that her attractive clothing underneath is displayed. They are dressed yet still appear naked, wearing the types of garments the women of Hell wear. The prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said:

There are two types of the people of Hell that I have never seen: (1) People with whips like the tails of cattle with which they beat people, and (2) women who are dressed but appear naked, walking with an enticing strut with their heads looking like the humps of camels. They will never enter Paradise, nor even smell its fragrance although its scent can be perceived from such and such a distance. [8]

Some women also frequent shopping centers adorned with gold jewelry or elegant watches, walking in such a manner and revealing her hands (in an attractive, seductive way) to entice those who see her even though Allah (Azza wa Jal) says:

They (believing women) should not strike their feet in such a manner that the adornment they hide may be known. [9]

Other women go out perfumed, sometimes choosing to wear the strongest, most fragrant perfume so that almost every man she passes who smells her scent, she allures him with it. The prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said about this:

Any woman who has been around incense should not join us in the last evening prayer. [10]

A woman, if she wears perfume and then passes by a gathering (of men), she is this and that (meaning: a type of adulterer, fornicator). [11]

Other women frequent the malls unveiled or wearing a thin veil that barely conceals her face. Perhaps it is even worn as a way of beautifying her face, or just to hide some blemish on her face. Still other women may cover their faces yet they wear the veil so tightly that their nose, eyebrows, and cheeks are shown. These are no doubt temptations.

You also find women roaming shopping centers in a strutting, swaying manner and joke and giggle with their girlfriends. Sometimes they visit shops, with or without need, to chat with the salesman, prolonging their conversation. Perhaps she requests an item stored in the back of the shop that she actually does not want; she just wants to keep chatting with the salesman. Yet Allah (Azza wa Jal) told the prophet’s wives and they were considered the “mothers of the believers,” they were the most pure and farthest from any behaviors or situations of temptation – Allah told them:

Do not be soft in speech (to men) for fear that he in whose heart is a disease should desire (you), but speak in an honorable manner. [12]

Muslims, we have described some things regarding the sickness but is there a cure? The answer is yes and there are several types of medicine thanks to Allah. We are a Muslim nation practicing the religion of Islam, and Allah (Azza wa Jal) has clarified the general responsibilities a man has regarding his family members and the prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) has spoken about this as well. As for Allah (Azza wa Jal) He says in His noble book:

You who believe, protect yourselves and your families from a fire whose fuel is people and stones over which are (appointed) angels, stern and severe. They do not disobey Allah in what He commands them but do as they are commanded.[13]

As for the Sunnah, the prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said:

Each of you is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for his flock. The leader is a shepherd and responsible for his flock (i.e., citizens). A man is a shepherd over his family and responsible for his flock. A woman is a shepherd in her husband’s home and responsible for her flock. And a servant, worker is a shepherd over the property of his master, boss. So each of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock.[14]

Worshippers of Allah, fear Allah and fulfill your responsibilities. Continuously prevent and discourage the women in your care from visiting shopping centers to behave in manners that contradict religious rulings.

I ask Allah to help us and you with regards to the medicine of integrity and honor, to guide us and guide others with us for He is capable of all things. All thanks are for Allah, the lord of the worlds, and may Allah send peace and prayers on our prophet, Muhammad, and upon his family and companions.

Ibn al-‘Uthaymīn continues in the second part of his Friday sermon…

Oh Muslim brothers. You, men who are caretakers of women, men who are responsible for your families, fear Allah with respect to yourselves and families. Cultivate in them respectable manners and praiseworthy characteristics, and discourage them from becoming the very means which lead to temptations and tribulations. You are men and they are women and men have been charged with taking care of women because of what Allah has given one over the other and because men (are obliged to) spend their wealth to support them. [15]

A man should neither be (helpless, having no influence) as if he were simply a rock in his house, nor should he be as if he is one of the women. Rather, he must act like a man in every sense of the word. Be shepherds; be responsible and influential so that you live among your families as men.

Some people go to great measures to ensure their financial stability, carefully watching their expenses, their checkbooks and bookkeeping. Yet they neglect their family members for whom they are personally and immediately responsible. Such a man, were he to lose a single sheep from his flock (a single coin, for example), he would search right and left for it until it is found. All the while, he remains unconcerned that his family members, his sons and daughters, are losing their manners and good character.

Men are protectors and maintainers of women by what Allah has given one over the other and what they spend (to support them) from their wealth.

Fulfill the obligations Allah has placed over you. This is my advice I present to you as I remind you that you are responsible for your families because Allah told you this and the prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) has charged you with this. Do you want to waste this trust you have been given? Do you want to be unable to answer when you are made to stand in front of Allah and asked about this trust?

Fear Allah and take seriously the obligations Allah has placed on you. Do not neglect and waste your chances at raising your family. If you fail in the upbringing of your family and this man fails his family and that man fails, soon the entire society becomes corrupt. Society is a conglomeration made up of individuals, so when the individuals become corrupt the entire population is corrupt.

I conclude this speech of mine asking Allah (Azza wa Jal) to assist us and you all in fulfilling our responsibilities we have regarding the safeguarding of our families. Oh Allah, help us care for our families, providing the best care for them.

Footnotes:

[1]This is a sermon given by Muḥammad Ibn Ṣāliḥ al-‘Uthaymīn before a Friday prayer. The complete opening and closing supplications of the scholar have been omitted. The Arabic text and audio, at the time of translation, is available at: http://www.ibnothaimeen.com/all/khotab/article_265.shtml.
[2] The Quran, Sūrah al-Anfāl, 8:25
[3] Collected by al-Bukhārī. Allah confirms this in Sūrah Āli-‘Imrān, 3:14, as He mentions various things people covet, beginning the list with women: Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire: women…
[4]Sūrah al-Isrā, 17:32
[5]Sūrah al-Isrā, 17:16
[6]Sūrah al-Furqān, 25:68-70
[7] Sūrah al-Nūr, 24:30
[8] Collected by Muslim
[9] Sūrah al-Nūr, 24:31
[10] Collected by al-Nasāī and al-Albānī said it is authentic in Ṣaḥīḥ Sunan al-Nasāī (no. 4739)
[11] Collected by al-Tirmidhī and al-Albānī said it is authentic in Ṣaḥīḥ Sunan al-Tirmidhī (no. 2237). In a similar narration collected by al-Nasāī and graded as authentic by al-Albānī in Ṣaḥīḥ Sunan al-Nasāī (no. 4737), the prophet (صلّى اهلل عليه وسلّم) said explicitly: “Any woman who wears perfume and then passes by people so that they smell her fragrance, she is an adulterer, fornicator”
[12] Sūrah al-Aḥzāb, 33:32
[13] Sūrah al-Taḥrīm, 66:6
[14] Collected by al-Bukhārī
[15] This is based on the verse in Sūrah al-Nisā, 4:34:

Translated by Abu az-Zubayr Harrison hafidhahullaah

Posted from Original PDF:http://www.authentic-translations.com/trans-pub/at_misau_20.pdf