WEBVTT 00:00:00.240 --> 00:00:09.660 Summary of the Doctrines of Ahl al-Sunnah 00:00:09.660 --> 00:00:12.750 The Meaning of Worship ('Ibadah) 00:00:12.750 --> 00:00:16.750 Worship is the ultimate purpose for creating morally responsible beings. 00:00:16.750 --> 00:00:18.750 Allah Almighty says: 00:00:18.750 --> 00:00:23.780 “I created the jinn and humankind only that they might worship Me.” (51:56) 00:00:23.780 --> 00:00:28.780 This necessitates that their entire lives be dedicated to Allah and lived through Him, 00:00:28.780 --> 00:00:30.780 just as He Almighty says: 00:00:30.780 --> 00:00:36.780 "Say, 'Indeed, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living, and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds.'" 00:00:36.780 --> 00:00:41.820 Thus, there are no worldly deeds detached from the Hereafter, 00:00:41.820 --> 00:00:46.820 nor are there deeds for the Hereafter performed anywhere other than in this worldly life. 00:00:46.820 --> 00:00:52.820 Rather, it is a single path whose beginning is in this world and whose end is in the Hereafter. 00:00:52.820 --> 00:00:57.820 Whoever worships Allah alone along this path in all their actions 00:00:57.820 --> 00:01:01.820 will arrive in the Hereafter at Paradise—and what an excellent destination! 00:01:01.820 --> 00:01:05.819 But whoever deviates from worship and abandons it along the way, 00:01:05.819 --> 00:01:09.819 their path will lead them to Hellfire—we seek refuge in Allah! 00:01:09.819 --> 00:01:14.849 Therefore, with respect to what is practiced, worship has been defined 00:01:14.849 --> 00:01:18.849 as an all-inclusive term for everything that Allah loves and is pleased with, 00:01:18.849 --> 00:01:22.849 of words and deeds, both outward and inward. 00:01:22.849 --> 00:01:26.879 Worship has also been defined with respect to the worshipper’s state of being 00:01:26.879 --> 00:01:30.879 as the utmost love and reverence for Allah Almighty, 00:01:30.879 --> 00:01:34.939 coupled with the utmost humility and submission to Him, Glorified is He. 00:01:34.939 --> 00:01:37.939 For if you love Him yet do not submit to Him, Glorified is He, 00:01:37.939 --> 00:01:39.939 you are not a true worshipper of Him; 00:01:39.939 --> 00:01:42.939 likewise, if you submit to Him without love, 00:01:42.939 --> 00:01:48.939 you are not a true worshipper of Him until you are both loving and submitting. 00:01:48.939 --> 00:01:55.189 Applying the Term "Worship" to Ritual Acts 00:01:55.189 --> 00:02:00.439 Applying the designation of worship to the various ritual acts, 00:02:00.439 --> 00:02:03.439 such as prayer, zakat, fasting, and pilgrimage, 00:02:03.439 --> 00:02:06.439 represents its specific sense, 00:02:06.439 --> 00:02:09.439 because these devotional rituals 00:02:09.439 --> 00:02:12.439 are the greatest forms of worship, 00:02:12.439 --> 00:02:16.500 and, alongside the utterance of the testimony of faith, constitute the pillars of Islam. 00:02:16.500 --> 00:02:19.500 The term "worship" is also used in another specific sense, 00:02:19.500 --> 00:02:21.500 applying exclusively to supplication (du'a), 00:02:21.500 --> 00:02:24.500 because it is its very core and most essential objective, 00:02:24.500 --> 00:02:27.500 as stated in the hadith: 00:02:27.500 --> 00:02:29.500 "Supplication is the essence of worship." 00:02:29.500 --> 00:02:33.729 Narrated by Abu Dawud, al-Tirmidhi, and Ibn Majah. 00:02:33.729 --> 00:02:38.729 Furthermore, the division of fiqh manuals into devotional acts ('ibadat) and transactional dealings (mu'amalat) 00:02:38.729 --> 00:02:41.729 is merely a conventional, pedagogical classification 00:02:41.729 --> 00:02:44.729 intended to facilitate learning for students 00:02:44.729 --> 00:02:47.729 and organize it across distinct educational stages. 00:02:47.729 --> 00:02:54.550 The Harm of Restricting the Meaning of Worship to Ritual Acts 00:02:54.550 --> 00:02:59.699 Whoever restricts the meaning of worship solely to devotional rituals 00:02:59.699 --> 00:03:03.699 will inevitably fall short in their obedience to their Lord, Glorified is He. 00:03:03.699 --> 00:03:08.699 If you were to tell such a person that this contradicts their servitude to Allah, 00:03:08.699 --> 00:03:13.699 they would reply that they have already fulfilled their duty of worship and prayer, 00:03:13.699 --> 00:03:18.699 and that they are currently managing their personal life and livelihood— 00:03:18.699 --> 00:03:23.699 as though they have never heard or understood the aforementioned words of Allah Almighty: 00:03:23.699 --> 00:03:30.699 "Say, 'Indeed, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living, and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds.'" 00:03:30.699 --> 00:03:36.860 Confining the meaning of worship strictly to devotional rituals will also result 00:03:36.860 --> 00:03:41.860 in flaw and deficiency in performing these very rituals themselves, 00:03:41.860 --> 00:03:43.860 as well as in reaping their intended fruits. 00:03:44.860 --> 00:03:49.860 Prayer will thus become mechanical motions devoid of true reverence (khushu'), 00:03:49.860 --> 00:03:52.860 failing to deter from immorality and wrongdoing; 00:03:52.860 --> 00:03:56.860 rather, one might spend its duration consumed by thoughts of worldly affairs, 00:03:56.860 --> 00:04:02.860 having failed to realize that humility—an act of the heart—is part of worship, 00:04:02.860 --> 00:04:06.860 and that abstaining from immorality and wrongdoing is also part of worship. 00:04:06.860 --> 00:04:10.860 Fasting will merely become an abstinence from food and drink, 00:04:10.860 --> 00:04:13.860 broken only by overindulging and stuffing one's stomach, 00:04:13.860 --> 00:04:17.860 while seeking amusement—or so one claims—during and after the fast 00:04:17.860 --> 00:04:21.860 by watching trivial trivia shows and cheap television serials, 00:04:21.860 --> 00:04:25.860 and letting one's gaze wander freely toward what Allah has forbidden, 00:04:25.860 --> 00:04:29.860 so that their fast never produces the piety hoped from it. 00:04:29.860 --> 00:04:31.860 Likewise, such a person will pay the zakat on their wealth, 00:04:31.860 --> 00:04:33.860 yet remain completely indifferent afterward 00:04:33.860 --> 00:04:38.860 as to whether their business and wealth grew through usury and forbidden transactions, 00:04:38.860 --> 00:04:42.860 failing to understand that avoiding such matters is itself part of worship, 00:04:42.860 --> 00:04:46.860 which entails dedicating one's entire life to Allah 00:04:46.860 --> 00:04:50.180 and aligning it with His will, Glorified is He. 00:04:50.180 --> 00:04:55.180 Moreover, restricting the meaning of worship to devotional rituals 00:04:55.180 --> 00:04:59.180 is the very entryway through which secularists and their ilk operate, 00:04:59.180 --> 00:05:04.180 reducing worship to merely a private relationship between the servant and their Lord, 00:05:04.180 --> 00:05:08.180 claiming it has no bearing on any other aspect of life, 00:05:08.180 --> 00:05:10.180 such as economics, politics, 00:05:10.180 --> 00:05:12.180 women's and family affairs, 00:05:12.180 --> 00:05:15.180 or dealings among people. 00:05:15.180 --> 00:05:22.910 Diligence and Sincerity in Devotional Rituals 00:05:22.910 --> 00:05:26.910 Diligence in devotional rituals with genuine truthfulness and sincerity 00:05:26.910 --> 00:05:30.910 helps one fulfill worship in its comprehensive sense, 00:05:30.910 --> 00:05:34.939 whereby a person's whole life is dedicated to Allah. 00:05:34.939 --> 00:05:37.939 For devotional rituals are by no means isolated 00:05:37.939 --> 00:05:41.939 from one's social or moral conduct in life; 00:05:41.939 --> 00:05:44.939 rather, the connection between them is profound, 00:05:44.939 --> 00:05:49.069 and they serve as spiritual sustenance on the path of comprehensive worship. 00:05:49.069 --> 00:05:54.069 Thus, after Allah Almighty commanded the wives of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) 00:05:54.069 --> 00:05:56.069 to remain settled in their homes 00:05:56.069 --> 00:05:59.069 and forbade them from displaying their charms as was done in the former days of ignorance— 00:05:59.069 --> 00:06:03.069 both of which are matters of social and behavioral conduct— 00:06:03.069 --> 00:06:07.069 He commanded them to establish prayer and give zakat. 00:06:07.069 --> 00:06:11.069 This contains an indication of the vital role devotional rituals play 00:06:11.069 --> 00:06:15.069 in empowering the fulfillment of behavioral and moral commands, 00:06:15.069 --> 00:06:17.069 and demonstrates their intrinsic connection to them. 00:06:17.069 --> 00:06:19.100 Allah Almighty says: 00:06:19.100 --> 00:06:25.100 “And stay in your houses. Bedizen not yourselves with the bedizenment of the Time of Ignorance. Be regular in prayer, and pay the poor-due, and obey Allah and His messenger. Allah's wish is but to remove uncleanness far from you, O Folk of the Household, and cleanse you with a thorough cleansing.” (33:33) 00:06:25.100 --> 00:06:28.100 "And establish prayer and give zakat, 00:06:28.100 --> 00:06:31.139 and obey Allah and His Messenger." 00:06:31.139 --> 00:06:34.139 And prayer deters from immorality and wrongdoing; 00:06:34.139 --> 00:06:36.139 Allah Almighty says: 00:06:36.139 --> 00:06:38.139 "And establish prayer..." 00:06:38.139 --> 00:06:42.139 “Recite that which hath been inspired in thee of the Scripture, and establish worship. Lo! worship preserveth from lewdness and iniquity, but verily remembrance of Allah is more important. And Allah knoweth what ye do.” (29:45) 00:06:42.139 --> 00:06:45.329 Likewise, the worship of calling people to Allah (da'wah) 00:06:45.329 --> 00:06:49.329 is aided by the night vigil prayer and reciting the Book of Allah. 00:06:49.329 --> 00:06:51.420 Allah Almighty says: 00:06:51.420 --> 00:06:54.420 "O you who wraps himself [in clothing]..." 00:06:54.420 --> 00:06:57.420 “Keep vigil the night long, save a little -” (73:2) 00:06:57.420 --> 00:07:00.420 “A half thereof, or abate a little thereof” (73:3) 00:07:00.420 --> 00:07:04.420 “Or add (a little) thereto - and chant the Qur'an in measure,” (73:4) 00:07:04.420 --> 00:07:08.420 "Indeed, We will cast upon you a heavy word." 00:07:08.420 --> 00:07:13.620 Thus, the preparation for this heavy word and the mission of da'wah 00:07:13.620 --> 00:07:17.620 was through the night vigil prayer and measured recitation of the Qur'an. 00:07:17.620 --> 00:07:23.060 Worship and Vicegerency on Earth 00:07:23.060 --> 00:07:28.300 Vicegerency upon the earth and developing it according to Allah's will 00:07:28.300 --> 00:07:30.300 is an act of worship to Allah, 00:07:30.300 --> 00:07:36.300 wherein all judgment, legislation, and decreeing of lawful and unlawful must belong exclusively to Allah Almighty. 00:07:36.300 --> 00:07:42.339 For this reason, when 'Adi Ibn Hatim (may Allah be pleased with him)— 00:07:42.339 --> 00:07:45.339 who had been a Christian before embracing Islam—failed to grasp this meaning, 00:07:45.339 --> 00:07:48.339 he was bewildered by the verse of Allah Almighty, 00:07:48.339 --> 00:07:54.339 “They have taken as lords beside Allah their rabbis and their monks and the Messiah son of Mary, when they were bidden to worship only One Allah. There is no Allah save Him. Be He Glorified from all that they ascribe as partner (unto Him)!” (9:31) 00:07:54.339 --> 00:07:57.339 and said, "O Messenger of Allah, 00:07:57.339 --> 00:08:00.339 they did not use to worship them!" 00:08:00.339 --> 00:08:03.339 The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied: 00:08:03.339 --> 00:08:04.339 "Yes, 00:08:04.339 --> 00:08:09.339 but they made lawful for them what Allah had forbidden, so they deemed it lawful; 00:08:09.339 --> 00:08:13.339 and they forbade for them what Allah had made lawful, so they deemed it forbidden; 00:08:13.339 --> 00:08:16.339 that was their worship of them." 00:08:16.339 --> 00:08:20.399 Narrated by al-Tirmidhi and authenticated as hasan by al-Albani. 00:08:20.399 --> 00:08:27.829 Abandoning Servitude to Allah Is Servitude to Others 00:08:27.829 --> 00:08:30.829 Whoever abandons their servitude to Allah, Glorified is He, 00:08:30.829 --> 00:08:33.830 will inevitably fall into servitude to something other than Him, 00:08:33.830 --> 00:08:35.830 whether it be a devil, an idol, 00:08:35.830 --> 00:08:38.830 base desires, lust for wealth, 00:08:38.830 --> 00:08:40.830 and so forth. 00:08:40.830 --> 00:08:44.830 Allah Almighty said regarding the worship of Satan: 00:08:44.830 --> 00:08:47.830 “Did I not charge you, O ye sons of Adam, that ye worship not the devil - Lo! he is your open foe! -” (36:60) 00:08:47.830 --> 00:08:49.830 "...that you do not worship Satan? 00:08:49.830 --> 00:08:52.830 Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy. 00:08:52.830 --> 00:08:54.830 And that you worship Me? 00:08:54.830 --> 00:08:57.830 This is a straight path." 00:08:57.830 --> 00:09:01.860 And He Almighty said regarding polytheism and worshipping others beside Him, 00:09:01.860 --> 00:09:04.929 such as idols and false deities: 00:09:04.929 --> 00:09:07.929 “Yet they choose beside Him other gods who create naught but are themselves created, and possess not hurt nor profit for themselves, and possess not death nor life, nor power to raise the dead.” (25:3) 00:09:07.929 --> 00:09:11.929 "...who create nothing and are themselves created?" 00:09:11.929 --> 00:09:15.929 “Yet they choose beside Him other gods who create naught but are themselves created, and possess not hurt nor profit for themselves, and possess not death nor life, nor power to raise the dead.” (25:3) 00:09:15.929 --> 00:09:21.929 “Yet they choose beside Him other gods who create naught but are themselves created, and possess not hurt nor profit for themselves, and possess not death nor life, nor power to raise the dead.” (25:3) 00:09:21.929 --> 00:09:24.929 And He Almighty said regarding the worship of whims and desires: 00:09:24.929 --> 00:09:27.929 "Have you seen him who has taken his own desire as his god?" 00:09:27.929 --> 00:09:30.929 “Hast thou seen him who chooseth for his god his own lust? Wouldst thou then be guardian over him?” (25:43) 00:09:30.929 --> 00:09:33.960 And the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 00:09:33.960 --> 00:09:36.960 "Wretched is the slave of the dinar, 00:09:36.960 --> 00:09:38.960 wretched is the slave of the dirham, 00:09:38.960 --> 00:09:40.960 wretched is the slave of fine garments, 00:09:40.960 --> 00:09:42.960 wretched is the slave of luxurious bedding! 00:09:42.960 --> 00:09:44.960 Wretched and ruined is he; 00:09:44.960 --> 00:09:47.960 and when he is pierced by a thorn, may it never be pulled out!" 00:09:47.960 --> 00:09:50.960 Narrated by al-Bukhari. 00:09:50.960 --> 00:09:55.080 Servitude to Allah Is Honor and Nobility 00:09:55.080 --> 00:09:59.100 Servitude to Allah is honor and nobility— 00:09:59.100 --> 00:10:01.100 an honor and nobility 00:10:01.100 --> 00:10:03.100 deserved by everyone who fulfills it 00:10:03.100 --> 00:10:06.100 in the most complete and perfect manner. 00:10:06.100 --> 00:10:09.100 Hence, the most truthful of worshippers was described with it, 00:10:09.100 --> 00:10:12.100 the most noble of them in the sight of Allah Almighty: 00:10:12.100 --> 00:10:15.100 the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). 00:10:15.100 --> 00:10:20.100 This description was conferred upon him in the loftiest and most sublime stations: 00:10:20.100 --> 00:10:22.139 the station of the Night Journey (al-Isra'). 00:10:22.139 --> 00:10:24.139 Allah Almighty said: 00:10:24.139 --> 00:10:26.139 “Glorified be He Who carried His servant by night from the Inviolable Place of Worship to the Far distant place of worship the neighbourhood whereof We have blessed, that We might show him of Our tokens! Lo! He, only He, is the Hearer, the Seer.” (17:1) 00:10:26.139 --> 00:10:32.139 “Glorified be He Who carried His servant by night from the Inviolable Place of Worship to the Far distant place of worship the neighbourhood whereof We have blessed, that We might show him of Our tokens! Lo! He, only He, is the Hearer, the Seer.” (17:1) 00:10:32.139 --> 00:10:36.360 He was likewise described with it in the station of receiving revelation. 00:10:36.360 --> 00:10:43.360 “Blessed is He Who hath revealed unto His slave the Criterion (of right and wrong), that he may be a warner to the peoples.” (25:1) 00:10:43.360 --> 00:10:48.539 The Conditions for the Acceptance of Worship 00:10:48.539 --> 00:10:50.539 Among the conditions for the acceptance of worship are: 00:10:50.539 --> 00:10:52.539 sincerity (ikhlas) and adherence (mutaba'ah). 00:10:52.539 --> 00:10:54.570 As for sincerity, 00:10:54.570 --> 00:10:58.570 it means that worship must be devoted purely to Allah alone, 00:10:58.570 --> 00:11:00.570 as Allah Almighty says: 00:11:00.570 --> 00:11:06.659 “And they are ordered naught else than to serve Allah, keeping religion pure for Him, as men by nature upright, and to establish worship and to pay the poor-due. That is true religion.” (98:5) 00:11:06.659 --> 00:11:07.659 And adherence means 00:11:07.659 --> 00:11:11.659 that the action must conform to the Sunnah, 00:11:11.659 --> 00:11:14.659 as the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 00:11:14.659 --> 00:11:18.659 "Whoever performs an act that is not in accordance with our matter will have it rejected." 00:11:18.659 --> 00:11:21.659 Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim. 00:11:21.659 --> 00:11:25.700 Whoever compromises sincerity in worship falls into polytheism (shirk), 00:11:25.700 --> 00:11:30.700 which is of two types: major shirk, which nullifies tawhid entirely, 00:11:30.700 --> 00:11:33.820 and minor shirk, such as ostentation (riya') and seeking reputation. 00:11:33.820 --> 00:11:39.820 And whoever fails to adhere to the Sunnah in their worship falls into religious innovation (bid'ah). 00:11:40.139 --> 00:11:45.139 Both sincerity and adherence are combined in the words of Allah Almighty: 00:11:45.139 --> 00:11:51.139 “Say: I am only a mortal like you. My Lord inspireth in me that your Allah is only One Allah. And whoever hopeth for the meeting with his Lord, let him do righteous work, and make none sharer of the worship due unto his Lord.” (18:110) 00:11:51.139 --> 00:11:55.139 “Say: I am only a mortal like you. My Lord inspireth in me that your Allah is only One Allah. And whoever hopeth for the meeting with his Lord, let him do righteous work, and make none sharer of the worship due unto his Lord.” (18:110) 00:11:55.139 --> 00:11:59.210 For His saying, "so let him do righteous deeds," 00:11:59.210 --> 00:12:02.210 means deeds that conform to the Sunnah without innovation; 00:12:02.210 --> 00:12:06.269 and His saying, "and not associate anyone in the worship of his Lord," 00:12:06.269 --> 00:12:11.269 means making his worship sincerely and purely for Allah Almighty alone. 00:12:11.269 --> 00:12:14.269 Thus, it is essential to single out Allah alone in worship, 00:12:14.269 --> 00:12:18.269 and single out the Messenger (peace be upon him) in adherence. 00:12:19.269 --> 00:12:23.460 There is also another fundamental condition for the acceptance of worship, 00:12:23.460 --> 00:12:28.460 which is that it must stem from a monotheist who associates no partners with Allah. 00:12:34.649 --> 00:12:38.580 Some extremist Sufis claim 00:12:38.580 --> 00:12:41.580 that devotional obligations are lifted from the allies of Allah (awliya') 00:12:41.580 --> 00:12:45.580 once they attain the level of certainty (al-yaqin), according to their claim. 00:12:45.580 --> 00:12:50.580 They derive this from a distorted understanding of the words of Allah Almighty: 00:12:50.580 --> 00:12:54.580 "And worship your Lord until certainty comes to you." 00:12:54.580 --> 00:12:57.580 Even though "certainty" here refers to death, 00:12:57.580 --> 00:13:00.580 by the unanimous consensus of the exegetes, 00:13:00.580 --> 00:13:05.580 exactly as found in the words of Allah Almighty quoting the disbelievers: 00:13:05.580 --> 00:13:09.580 “And we used to deny the Day of Judgment,” (74:46) 00:13:09.580 --> 00:13:11.580 "...until the certainty came to us." 00:13:11.580 --> 00:13:18.580 And is there anyone of greater certainty in their faith than the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him)? 00:13:18.580 --> 00:13:23.580 Yet he continued worshipping Allah until death came to him; 00:13:23.580 --> 00:13:27.580 he even went out to the Companions during his terminal illness while they were praying, 00:13:27.580 --> 00:13:29.580 and led them in prayer. 00:13:29.580 --> 00:13:32.580 Therefore, a servant is never free from servitude to Allah 00:13:32.580 --> 00:13:35.580 as long as they remain in the realm of moral obligation. 00:13:35.580 --> 00:13:41.139 Allah possesses two forms of servitude over creation: 00:13:41.139 --> 00:13:44.009 a general servitude and a specific servitude. 00:13:44.009 --> 00:13:46.009 General servitude 00:13:46.009 --> 00:13:49.070 It is the servitude of subjugation and absolute sovereignty, 00:13:49.070 --> 00:13:52.070 in which no one has any choice, 00:13:52.070 --> 00:13:56.070 for all belong to Allah and are entirely under His will. 00:13:56.070 --> 00:13:59.070 This is what is meant in the words of Allah Almighty: 00:13:59.070 --> 00:14:03.070 “There is none in the heavens and the earth but cometh unto the Beneficent as a slave.” (19:93) 00:14:03.070 --> 00:14:06.070 "...but comes unto the Most Merciful as a slave." 00:14:06.070 --> 00:14:08.070 And His words: 00:14:08.070 --> 00:14:10.070 "And Allah never wrongs..." 00:14:11.070 --> 00:14:14.070 "...and Allah desires no injustice for His servants." 00:14:14.070 --> 00:14:16.070 And His words: 00:14:16.070 --> 00:14:20.070 “Those who were proud say: Lo! we are all (together) herein. Lo! Allah hath judged between (His) slaves.” (40:48) 00:14:20.070 --> 00:14:23.070 along with other verses indicating 00:14:23.070 --> 00:14:27.070 that all created beings are servants under the Lordship of Allah Almighty. 00:14:27.070 --> 00:14:31.070 This is a form of servitude for which they are not rewarded, 00:14:31.070 --> 00:14:33.070 and from which no one can ever escape. 00:14:33.070 --> 00:14:36.299 As for the specific servitude, 00:14:36.299 --> 00:14:39.299 it is the servitude of the people of His love and obedience, 00:14:39.299 --> 00:14:42.299 and it is what is intended in the words of Allah Almighty: 00:14:42.299 --> 00:14:45.299 “O My slaves! For you there is no fear this day, nor is it ye who grieve;” (43:68) 00:14:45.299 --> 00:14:48.299 "...nor shall you grieve." 00:14:48.299 --> 00:14:50.299 And His words: 00:14:50.299 --> 00:14:54.299 "And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth with humility," 00:14:54.299 --> 00:14:57.299 "and when the ignorant address them," 00:14:57.299 --> 00:14:59.299 "they say words of peace." 00:14:59.299 --> 00:15:01.299 And His words: 00:15:01.299 --> 00:15:05.299 "Indeed, over My servants you have no authority." 00:15:05.299 --> 00:15:08.299 As well as other verses. 00:15:08.299 --> 00:15:13.299 The people of this servitude are the servants of Allah Almighty's exclusive Divinity, 00:15:13.299 --> 00:15:16.299 and they are duly rewarded for it. 00:15:16.299 --> 00:15:20.419 Thus, all creation are servants under the Lordship of Allah, Glorified is He, 00:15:20.419 --> 00:15:25.419 while the people of His obedience and devotion are the servants of His Divinity. 00:15:25.419 --> 00:15:29.740 The disparity in virtue among acts of worship: 00:15:29.740 --> 00:15:33.700 The fundamental basis for disparity in virtue among acts of worship 00:15:33.700 --> 00:15:37.700 lies in what resides in the servant's heart during worship: 00:15:38.700 --> 00:15:42.700 sincerity, love, fear, and hope, 00:15:42.700 --> 00:15:45.700 as well as acting to seek the Lord's pleasure at all times 00:15:45.700 --> 00:15:49.700 according to what that particular time and its duty demand. 00:15:49.700 --> 00:15:52.700 Thus, the best act of worship during times of jihad 00:15:52.700 --> 00:15:54.700 is jihad itself, 00:15:54.700 --> 00:15:58.700 even if it leads to leaving aside personal daily devotionals like the night prayer and voluntary daytime fasting, 00:15:58.700 --> 00:16:00.700 and the like. 00:16:00.700 --> 00:16:03.700 The best act of worship when a guest arrives 00:16:03.700 --> 00:16:05.700 is to fulfill their due rights of hospitality, 00:16:05.700 --> 00:16:08.700 even if that distracts from recommended personal litanies. 00:16:08.700 --> 00:16:11.700 The best act of worship at the pre-dawn hour (sahar) 00:16:11.700 --> 00:16:12.700 is seeking forgiveness (istighfar), 00:16:12.700 --> 00:16:14.700 as Allah Almighty said: 00:16:14.700 --> 00:16:17.700 "And in the pre-dawn hours they seek forgiveness." 00:16:17.700 --> 00:16:19.700 And so on and so forth; 00:16:19.700 --> 00:16:23.700 every time and circumstance has its own specific act of worship and duty. 00:16:23.700 --> 00:16:27.889 Furthermore, the disparity in virtue among acts of worship and righteous deeds 00:16:27.889 --> 00:16:30.889 is also governed by the following rules: 00:16:30.889 --> 00:16:32.889 First: 00:16:32.889 --> 00:16:35.889 Obligatory duties take precedence over voluntary acts, 00:16:35.889 --> 00:16:38.889 and are superior to them in the sight of Allah Almighty, 00:16:38.889 --> 00:16:40.889 as stated in the Hadith Qudsi: 00:16:40.889 --> 00:16:46.889 "My servant does not draw near to Me with anything more beloved to Me than what I have made obligatory upon him," 00:16:46.889 --> 00:16:52.889 "and My servant continues to draw near to Me with voluntary acts until I love him." 00:16:52.889 --> 00:16:54.889 Narrated by al-Bukhari. 00:16:54.889 --> 00:16:56.889 So the obligatory duties take precedence, 00:16:56.889 --> 00:16:58.889 while voluntary deeds serve to complete them. 00:16:58.889 --> 00:17:01.110 Second: 00:17:01.110 --> 00:17:05.109 A consistent small deed is better than a discontinued abundant one, 00:17:05.109 --> 00:17:08.109 as the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: 00:17:08.109 --> 00:17:12.109 "And indeed, the most beloved of deeds to Allah, Mighty and Majestic," 00:17:12.109 --> 00:17:15.109 "are those done most consistently, even if few." 00:17:15.109 --> 00:17:19.230 Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim. 00:17:19.230 --> 00:17:23.869 Strength and diligence in worship: 00:17:23.869 --> 00:17:25.869 Allah Almighty said: 00:17:25.869 --> 00:17:28.869 “Bear with what they say, and remember Our bondman David, lord of might, Lo! he was ever turning in repentance (toward Allah).” (38:17) 00:17:28.869 --> 00:17:30.869 "...indeed, he was one who repeatedly turned back to Allah." 00:17:30.869 --> 00:17:33.869 That is, someone possessing strength in obedience and worship, 00:17:33.869 --> 00:17:35.869 for he was 'awwab', 00:17:35.869 --> 00:17:40.869 meaning frequently returning to Allah, turning back to Him, and supplicating Him in humility. 00:17:40.869 --> 00:17:45.869 This necessitates that one strive to acquire the means that grant strength in worship, 00:17:45.869 --> 00:17:50.869 and never yield to lethargy and idleness that undermine this strength 00:17:50.869 --> 00:17:53.869 and enfeeble the soul. 00:17:53.869 --> 00:17:58.019 Disliking worship and sluggishness in performing it 00:17:58.019 --> 00:18:01.019 are among the characteristics of hypocrites. 00:18:01.019 --> 00:18:04.859 Allah severely censured the hypocrites guilty of major hypocrisy 00:18:04.859 --> 00:18:06.859 with the utmost blame, 00:18:06.859 --> 00:18:08.859 and established disbelief against them. 00:18:08.859 --> 00:18:10.859 Allah Almighty said: 00:18:10.859 --> 00:18:13.859 “And naught preventeth that their contributions should be accepted from them save that they have disbelieved in Allah and in His messenger, and they come not to worship save as idlers, and pay not (their contribution) save reluctantly.” (9:54) 00:18:13.859 --> 00:18:17.859 “And naught preventeth that their contributions should be accepted from them save that they have disbelieved in Allah and in His messenger, and they come not to worship save as idlers, and pay not (their contribution) save reluctantly.” (9:54) 00:18:17.859 --> 00:18:21.859 "...and they do not come to prayer except while being sluggish..." 00:18:21.859 --> 00:18:25.859 “And naught preventeth that their contributions should be accepted from them save that they have disbelieved in Allah and in His messenger, and they come not to worship save as idlers, and pay not (their contribution) save reluctantly.” (9:54) 00:18:25.859 --> 00:18:29.920 And just as the verse characterized the hypocrites as being sluggish in prayer 00:18:29.920 --> 00:18:32.920 and disliking spending in the way of Allah, 00:18:32.920 --> 00:18:35.920 it implicitly indicates 00:18:35.920 --> 00:18:38.920 that a servant ought to perform the prayer 00:18:38.920 --> 00:18:41.920 with an active heart and body, 00:18:41.920 --> 00:18:44.920 and should not spend in the way of Allah 00:18:44.920 --> 00:18:47.920 except with a heart joyous in giving, 00:18:47.920 --> 00:18:51.920 hoping for its reward and treasure from Allah alone, 00:18:51.920 --> 00:18:56.920 never resembling the hypocrites in their laziness and hatred of worship. 00:18:59.329 --> 00:19:03.329 The diligence of disbelievers in worship and supplicating other than Allah 00:19:03.329 --> 00:19:06.329 avails them nothing. 00:19:06.329 --> 00:19:11.190 No matter how much the disbelievers strive in worship and praying to their deities, 00:19:11.190 --> 00:19:15.190 it will never avail them in the least against Allah. 00:19:15.190 --> 00:19:17.220 Allah Almighty said: 00:19:17.220 --> 00:19:20.220 "To Him belongs the call of truth..." 00:19:20.220 --> 00:19:25.220 “Unto Him is the real prayer. Those unto whom they pray beside Allah respond to them not at all, save as (is the response to) one who stretcheth forth his hands toward water (asking) that it may come unto his mouth, and it will never reach it. The prayer of disbelievers goeth (far) astray.” (13:14) 00:19:25.220 --> 00:19:31.220 "...except like one who extends his hands to water so it may reach his mouth, but it will never reach it;" 00:19:31.220 --> 00:19:36.289 "and the supplication of the disbelievers is nothing but in vain." 00:19:36.289 --> 00:19:40.289 Therefore, let no one be deceived by the diligence of disbelievers in their worship, 00:19:40.289 --> 00:19:43.289 nor think well of it, 00:19:43.289 --> 00:19:47.289 for it avails nothing against the truth. 00:19:50.410 --> 00:19:54.619 Ihsan (spiritual excellence) encompasses two primary aspects: 00:19:54.619 --> 00:19:57.619 The first is excellence in worship, 00:19:57.619 --> 00:20:00.619 which is the highest station of worship, 00:20:00.619 --> 00:20:02.619 as the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said 00:20:02.619 --> 00:20:06.619 when Gabriel, peace be upon him, asked him about ihsan: 00:20:06.619 --> 00:20:09.619 "It is to worship Allah as though you see Him," 00:20:09.619 --> 00:20:13.619 "for even if you do not see Him, He surely sees you." 00:20:13.619 --> 00:20:15.660 Agreed upon. 00:20:15.660 --> 00:20:20.660 And he asked him that after asking about Islam and Iman. 00:20:20.660 --> 00:20:23.750 The second is benevolence toward the creation, 00:20:23.750 --> 00:20:26.750 as in the words of Allah Almighty: 00:20:26.750 --> 00:20:31.750 “Those who spend (of that which Allah hath given them) in ease and in adversity, those who control their wrath and are forgiving toward mankind; Allah loveth the good;” (3:134) 00:20:31.750 --> 00:20:35.750 "...and who restrain anger and pardon people," 00:20:35.750 --> 00:20:38.750 "and Allah loves those who do good." 00:20:38.750 --> 00:20:42.819 Complete ihsan lies in fulfilling both matters together: 00:20:42.819 --> 00:20:45.819 excellence in worshipping the Creator, 00:20:45.819 --> 00:20:48.819 and excellence in dealing with the creation. 00:20:48.819 --> 00:20:52.819 Both matters are combined in the words of Allah Almighty: 00:20:52.819 --> 00:20:55.819 "And do not cause corruption on the earth after its reformation," 00:20:55.819 --> 00:20:58.819 "and call upon Him in fear and aspiration;" 00:20:58.819 --> 00:21:02.819 "indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good." 00:21:02.819 --> 00:21:05.819 For His words: 00:21:05.819 --> 00:21:08.819 "And do not cause corruption on the earth after its reformation," 00:21:08.819 --> 00:21:11.819 indicate benevolence in dealing with the creation, 00:21:11.819 --> 00:21:13.819 while His words: 00:21:13.819 --> 00:21:16.819 "and call upon Him in fear and aspiration," 00:21:16.819 --> 00:21:19.819 indicate excellence in worshipping Allah Almighty. 00:21:20.819 --> 00:21:23.819 The verse then makes attaining the mercy of Allah Almighty 00:21:23.819 --> 00:21:26.819 contingent upon fulfilling both matters: 00:21:26.819 --> 00:21:30.819 "indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good." 00:21:30.819 --> 00:21:33.819 Thus, the more a servant embodies ihsan, 00:21:33.819 --> 00:21:37.819 the nearer they are to the mercy of Allah, Mighty and Majestic. 00:21:37.819 --> 00:21:40.819 In this lies an incentive toward spiritual excellence 00:21:40.819 --> 00:21:42.819 that is unmistakably clear. 00:21:42.819 --> 00:21:48.380 Worshipping in secret: 00:21:48.380 --> 00:21:50.380 Worshipping Allah in secret 00:21:50.380 --> 00:21:54.380 is among the most certain signs of sincerity and uprightness of the inner conscience. 00:21:54.380 --> 00:21:57.380 The salaf (early generations), may Allah have mercy on them, 00:21:57.380 --> 00:22:01.380 were keen on concealing their righteous deeds other than the obligatory ones. 00:22:01.380 --> 00:22:04.380 Allah Almighty said: 00:22:04.380 --> 00:22:07.380 "Call upon your Lord in humility and in secret..." 00:22:07.380 --> 00:22:10.380 “(O mankind!) Call upon your Lord humbly and in secret. Lo! He loveth not aggressors.” (7:55) 00:22:10.380 --> 00:22:13.380 And the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: 00:22:13.380 --> 00:22:18.380 "Indeed, Allah loves the servant who is God-fearing, self-sufficient, and hidden." 00:22:18.380 --> 00:22:20.380 Narrated by Muslim. 00:22:20.380 --> 00:22:23.380 Al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam, may Allah be pleased with him, said: 00:22:23.380 --> 00:22:26.380 "Keep for yourselves a hidden store of righteous deeds," 00:22:26.380 --> 00:22:30.380 "just as you have a hidden store of evil deeds." 00:22:30.380 --> 00:22:33.410 And the statements of the salaf regarding this are numerous. 00:22:33.410 --> 00:22:38.200 Pairing worship with trust in Allah 00:22:38.200 --> 00:22:40.200 and seeking His aid: 00:22:40.200 --> 00:22:45.509 In the texts of the two revelations, worship is frequently coupled 00:22:45.509 --> 00:22:47.509 with putting one's trust in Allah 00:22:47.509 --> 00:22:48.509 and seeking His aid, 00:22:48.509 --> 00:22:50.509 as in the words of Allah Almighty: 00:22:51.509 --> 00:22:54.509 “Thee (alone) we worship; Thee (alone) we ask for help.” (1:5) 00:22:54.509 --> 00:22:56.509 and His words: 00:22:56.509 --> 00:22:59.509 "...so worship Him and rely upon Him." 00:22:59.509 --> 00:23:00.509 That is solely because 00:23:00.509 --> 00:23:04.509 the servant is utterly dependent on Allah, Mighty and Majestic, 00:23:04.509 --> 00:23:07.509 in that He is the One sought, loved, and worshipped, 00:23:07.509 --> 00:23:12.509 and in that He is the One petitioned, relied upon, and sought for aid. 00:23:12.509 --> 00:23:16.509 Through worship, the exclusive Divinity (Uluhiyyah) of Allah, Mighty and Majestic, is manifested, 00:23:16.509 --> 00:23:19.509 while through reliance and seeking His aid, 00:23:19.509 --> 00:23:21.509 His Lordship (Rububiyyah) is manifested. 00:23:21.509 --> 00:23:25.509 Servitude cannot be complete except through both dimensions. 00:23:25.509 --> 00:23:29.670 And just as seeking Allah's aid applies to all affairs, 00:23:29.670 --> 00:23:33.670 it applies even more fundamentally to worship itself, 00:23:33.670 --> 00:23:37.670 as indicated by its conjunction with it in the verse of Surat al-Fatihah. 00:23:37.670 --> 00:23:40.670 For seeking Allah's aid in worship 00:23:40.670 --> 00:23:43.670 strengthens the servant to perform it, 00:23:43.670 --> 00:23:46.670 protects them from conceited self-admiration regarding their worship, 00:23:46.670 --> 00:23:49.670 and from assuming it was achieved by their own power and strength. 00:23:49.670 --> 00:23:51.670 It also averts from them laziness 00:23:51.670 --> 00:23:54.670 and heedless negligence in carrying it out. 00:23:54.670 --> 00:23:57.670 Thus, whoever seeks Allah's aid in their worship, 00:23:57.670 --> 00:23:59.670 Allah aids them in it; 00:23:59.670 --> 00:24:01.670 and whoever neglects seeking His aid, 00:24:01.670 --> 00:24:03.670 Allah leaves them to their own devices, 00:24:03.670 --> 00:24:06.670 and weakness and lethargy overtake them. 00:24:06.829 --> 00:24:09.829 In placing worship before seeking aid 00:24:09.829 --> 00:24:12.829 in the verse of Surat al-Fatihah, 00:24:12.829 --> 00:24:14.829 there are profound rhetorical subtleties, 00:24:14.829 --> 00:24:16.829 the most prominent of which is 00:24:16.829 --> 00:24:20.829 that worship is the ultimate purpose for which servants were created, 00:24:20.829 --> 00:24:23.829 while seeking aid is a means to it, 00:24:23.829 --> 00:24:29.019 and ultimate ends take precedence over means. 00:24:29.019 --> 00:24:33.019 Fulfilling servitude through knowing the most beautiful names of Allah 00:24:33.019 --> 00:24:36.779 and His exalted attributes: 00:24:36.779 --> 00:24:39.779 Allah, Glorified is He, did not mention His names and attributes 00:24:39.779 --> 00:24:41.779 in His Noble Book 00:24:41.779 --> 00:24:45.779 merely for us to know them theoretically; 00:24:45.779 --> 00:24:49.779 rather, He mentioned them so we would comprehend their meanings and realities, 00:24:49.779 --> 00:24:53.779 contemplate their imperatives and implications in the cosmos, 00:24:53.779 --> 00:24:56.779 and reflect on their effects upon the heart and limbs, 00:24:56.779 --> 00:24:59.779 thereby calling upon Allah Almighty by them, 00:24:59.779 --> 00:25:01.779 as He, Mighty and Majestic, said: 00:25:01.779 --> 00:25:05.779 "And to Allah belong the most beautiful names, so call upon Him by them..." 00:25:05.779 --> 00:25:09.779 “Allah's are the fairest names. Invoke Him by them. And leave the company of those who blaspheme His names. They will be requited what they do.” (7:180) 00:25:09.779 --> 00:25:12.779 “Allah's are the fairest names. Invoke Him by them. And leave the company of those who blaspheme His names. They will be requited what they do.” (7:180) 00:25:12.779 --> 00:25:14.779 This knowledge and this supplication 00:25:14.779 --> 00:25:19.779 are what most profoundly realize a person's servitude to Allah, Glorified is He. 00:25:19.779 --> 00:25:23.779 For when a person knows the Lord Almighty's uniqueness in bringing benefit and harm, 00:25:23.779 --> 00:25:27.779 Bestowing, withholding, creating, and providing sustenance, 00:25:27.779 --> 00:25:29.779 As well as giving life and causing death— 00:25:29.779 --> 00:25:34.779 All of these yield for the servant the inward worship of reliance upon Allah, 00:25:34.779 --> 00:25:37.779 Along with the outward requirements of this reliance, 00:25:37.779 --> 00:25:40.779 Just as they yield fearing Him alone, 00:25:40.779 --> 00:25:41.779 Hoping in Him alone, 00:25:41.779 --> 00:25:43.779 Loving Him, and venerating Him. 00:25:43.779 --> 00:25:47.779 The same applies to all of Allah's Most Beautiful Names 00:25:47.779 --> 00:25:49.779 And Sublime Attributes. 00:25:49.779 --> 00:25:53.970 Moderation in Worship 00:25:53.970 --> 00:25:57.440 Worship in Islam 00:25:57.440 --> 00:26:01.440 Is a middle path between those who neglect and abandon it, 00:26:01.440 --> 00:26:03.440 And those who engage in extremism and monasticism. 00:26:03.440 --> 00:26:06.500 As for those who neglect worship, 00:26:06.500 --> 00:26:08.500 They have been deluded by the worldly life; 00:26:08.500 --> 00:26:11.500 They cling to it and pant after it, 00:26:11.500 --> 00:26:16.500 So that all their standards have become purely material and worldly. 00:26:16.500 --> 00:26:19.500 The clearest example representing these people 00:26:19.500 --> 00:26:22.500 Is the Jews, regarding whom Allah said: 00:26:22.500 --> 00:26:28.500 “And thou wilt find them greediest of mankind for life and (greedier) than the idolaters. (Each) one of them would like to be allowed to live a thousand years. And to live (a thousand years) would be no means remove him from the doom. Allah is Seer of what they do.” (2:96) 00:26:28.500 --> 00:26:32.500 “And thou wilt find them greediest of mankind for life and (greedier) than the idolaters. (Each) one of them would like to be allowed to live a thousand years. And to live (a thousand years) would be no means remove him from the doom. Allah is Seer of what they do.” (2:96) 00:26:32.500 --> 00:26:35.539 They are eager for a life— 00:26:35.539 --> 00:26:37.539 Using the indefinite noun "a life," 00:26:37.539 --> 00:26:41.539 Which indicates a love for life regardless of its nature, 00:26:41.539 --> 00:26:45.539 Even if it were a beastly existence consumed by instincts and lusts. 00:26:45.539 --> 00:26:51.539 For this reason, they deserved to be described as "those who earned anger," 00:26:51.539 --> 00:26:54.539 Due to their refusal to comply with divine commands 00:26:54.539 --> 00:26:59.539 And their trickery to circumvent them for their worldly interests. 00:26:59.539 --> 00:27:01.539 On the other hand, those who exaggerate in worship 00:27:01.539 --> 00:27:05.539 Were driven by their extremism to forbid what Allah made lawful 00:27:05.539 --> 00:27:07.539 And to innovate monasticism, 00:27:07.539 --> 00:27:10.539 Just as the monks and worshippers among the Christians did, 00:27:10.539 --> 00:27:15.539 Who forbade themselves marriage and wholesome provisions, 00:27:15.539 --> 00:27:19.539 Viewing them as an abomination from the work of Satan. 00:27:19.539 --> 00:27:22.539 Thus, they rejected Allah's favor upon them 00:27:22.539 --> 00:27:25.539 And were not guided to the truth regarding worship, 00:27:25.539 --> 00:27:28.539 Deserving thereby the description of "those who are astray." 00:27:28.539 --> 00:27:31.599 The former are people of neglect and immorality, 00:27:31.599 --> 00:27:35.599 While the latter are people of excess, extremism, and innovation; 00:27:35.599 --> 00:27:38.599 The salaf warned against both groups. 00:27:38.599 --> 00:27:42.700 The concept of moderation in worship in Islam is attained 00:27:42.700 --> 00:27:46.700 By examining the texts of the two revelations regarding this matter, 00:27:46.700 --> 00:27:48.700 Synthesizing them together 00:27:48.700 --> 00:27:52.700 Rather than acting upon some while abandoning others. 00:27:52.700 --> 00:27:56.700 For the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), who said: 00:27:56.700 --> 00:27:58.700 "The true mujahid is the one who strives against his own self," 00:27:59.700 --> 00:28:02.700 Is the very same person who said to the three men who 00:28:02.700 --> 00:28:04.700 Inquired about his worship 00:28:04.700 --> 00:28:06.700 And seemed to deem it little, 00:28:06.700 --> 00:28:08.700 Whereupon one of them said: 00:28:08.700 --> 00:28:11.700 "As for me, I will pray through the night forever." 00:28:11.700 --> 00:28:13.700 Another said: 00:28:13.700 --> 00:28:16.700 "I will fast continuously without breaking my fast." 00:28:16.700 --> 00:28:18.700 And the last said: 00:28:18.700 --> 00:28:20.700 "I will abstain from women 00:28:20.700 --> 00:28:22.700 And never marry." 00:28:22.700 --> 00:28:25.700 So he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: 00:28:25.700 --> 00:28:28.700 "Are you the ones who said such and such? 00:28:28.700 --> 00:28:31.700 By Allah, I am the most fearful of Allah among you 00:28:31.700 --> 00:28:33.700 And the most conscious of Him, 00:28:33.700 --> 00:28:35.700 Yet I fast and break my fast, 00:28:35.700 --> 00:28:37.700 I pray and I sleep, 00:28:37.700 --> 00:28:39.700 And I marry women. 00:28:39.700 --> 00:28:41.700 Whoever turns away from my Sunnah 00:28:41.700 --> 00:28:43.700 Is not of me." 00:28:43.700 --> 00:28:47.700 Thus, in the first text he encouraged diligent exertion in worship, 00:28:47.700 --> 00:28:51.700 While in the second he prohibited extremism and monasticism. 00:28:51.700 --> 00:28:54.920 His guidance (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) 00:28:54.920 --> 00:28:59.920 Is based on moderation and balance between rights and duties. 00:28:59.920 --> 00:29:04.920 When Salman al-Farisi said to Abu al-Darda (may Allah be pleased with him): 00:29:04.920 --> 00:29:07.920 "Your Lord has a right over you, 00:29:07.920 --> 00:29:09.920 Your self has a right over you, 00:29:09.920 --> 00:29:12.920 And your family has a right over you, 00:29:12.920 --> 00:29:15.980 So give every possessor of a right his due," 00:29:15.980 --> 00:29:18.980 The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: 00:29:18.980 --> 00:29:21.019 "Salman spoke the truth." 00:29:21.019 --> 00:29:23.019 Furthermore, he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) 00:29:23.019 --> 00:29:26.019 Approved of vows that were prescribed in the Shariah, 00:29:26.019 --> 00:29:29.019 While invalidating those that were innovated and rejected. 00:29:29.019 --> 00:29:31.019 When he saw a man standing in the sun, 00:29:31.019 --> 00:29:33.019 He asked about him, 00:29:33.019 --> 00:29:36.019 And they said: "He vowed to stand and not sit, 00:29:36.019 --> 00:29:39.019 Not seek shade, not speak, 00:29:39.019 --> 00:29:41.019 And to fast." 00:29:41.019 --> 00:29:44.079 He said: "Command him to speak, 00:29:44.079 --> 00:29:47.079 Seek shade, sit down, 00:29:47.079 --> 00:29:49.079 And complete his fast." 00:29:49.079 --> 00:29:51.210 Narrated by al-Bukhari. 00:29:51.210 --> 00:29:54.210 This is part of moderation in worship. 00:29:54.210 --> 00:29:58.230 Domains of Moderation in Worship 00:29:58.230 --> 00:30:02.579 Moderation in worship manifests 00:30:02.579 --> 00:30:05.579 In several domains, 00:30:05.579 --> 00:30:08.579 Including, first: 00:30:08.579 --> 00:30:11.579 Maintaining a middle course when supplicating Allah between reciting aloud and softly. 00:30:11.579 --> 00:30:14.579 Allah Almighty said: 00:30:14.579 --> 00:30:17.579 “Say (unto mankind): Cry unto Allah, or cry unto the Beneficent, unto whichsoever ye cry (it is the same). His are the most beautiful names. And thou (Muhammad), be not loud-voiced in thy worship nor yet silent therein, but follow a way between.” (17:110) 00:30:17.579 --> 00:30:20.579 ﴾And seek a way between that.﴿ 00:30:20.579 --> 00:30:22.740 Second: 00:30:22.740 --> 00:30:25.740 Avoiding transgression in purification and supplication, 00:30:25.740 --> 00:30:28.799 As he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: 00:30:28.799 --> 00:30:31.799 "There will be among this Ummah 00:30:31.799 --> 00:30:34.799 A people who transgress in purification and supplication." 00:30:34.799 --> 00:30:37.799 Narrated by Ahmad and Abu Dawud, 00:30:37.799 --> 00:30:40.799 And graded authentic by Ibn Hajar, al-Albani, 00:30:40.799 --> 00:30:43.799 And Shu'ayb al-Arna'ut. 00:30:43.799 --> 00:30:47.019 Transgression in purification 00:30:47.019 --> 00:30:50.019 Occurs through extravagance and exceeding the limit, 00:30:50.019 --> 00:30:53.019 Due to obsessive misgivings (waswasah), for instance. 00:30:53.019 --> 00:30:56.019 Transgression in supplication, 00:30:56.019 --> 00:30:59.019 Just as it occurs by raising one's voice excessively, 00:30:59.019 --> 00:31:02.019 Also occurs by asking for that which is un-Islamic. 00:31:02.019 --> 00:31:05.019 Allah Almighty has said: 00:31:05.019 --> 00:31:08.019 ﴾Call upon your Lord in humility and secrecy.﴿ 00:31:08.019 --> 00:31:11.279 “(O mankind!) Call upon your Lord humbly and in secret. Lo! He loveth not aggressors.” (7:55) 00:31:11.279 --> 00:31:14.279 Third: 00:31:14.279 --> 00:31:17.279 Striking a balance between concessions (rukhsah) and strict duties ('azimah). 00:31:17.279 --> 00:31:20.279 One should utilize prescribed concessions 00:31:20.279 --> 00:31:23.279 Without indulging in them excessively to the point of straying 00:31:23.279 --> 00:31:26.279 From the intended purpose of the Shariah. 00:31:26.279 --> 00:31:29.279 For instance, among the legitimate concessions 00:31:29.279 --> 00:31:32.279 Is delaying the Dhuhr prayer during extreme heat 00:31:32.279 --> 00:31:35.279 To let it cool down, so that the heat does not prevent 00:31:35.279 --> 00:31:38.279 Reverent humility in prayer. 00:31:38.279 --> 00:31:41.279 Excessive indulgence in this concession, however, 00:31:41.279 --> 00:31:44.279 Would be delaying it beyond its permissible time. 00:31:44.279 --> 00:31:48.559 Fruits of Worship 00:31:50.000 --> 00:31:53.000 Worship, in its comprehensive sense 00:31:53.000 --> 00:31:56.000 Previously explained, yields grand fruits for the servant, 00:31:56.000 --> 00:31:59.000 Among the most important of which is, first: 00:31:59.000 --> 00:32:02.000 Attachment to Allah alone, 00:32:02.000 --> 00:32:05.000 Manifesting utter neediness before Him, and becoming independent of everything else. 00:32:05.000 --> 00:32:08.000 True indeed are the words of Allah Almighty: 00:32:08.000 --> 00:32:11.000 “Will not Allah defend His slave? Yet they would frighten thee with those beside Him. He whom Allah sendeth astray, for him there is no guide.” (39:36) 00:32:11.000 --> 00:32:14.000 And He Almighty said: 00:32:14.000 --> 00:32:17.000 ﴾Say, "Sufficient for me is Allah; 00:32:17.000 --> 00:32:20.259 Upon Him rely those who would rely."﴿ 00:32:20.259 --> 00:32:23.259 Second: Attachment to Allah alone 00:32:23.259 --> 00:32:26.259 Engenders courage, steadfastness, 00:32:26.259 --> 00:32:29.259 Sacrifice in His cause, 00:32:29.259 --> 00:32:32.259 Tranquility of the heart, inner calm, and true happiness. 00:32:32.259 --> 00:32:35.259 This fruit was nowhere more clearly manifested 00:32:35.259 --> 00:32:38.259 Than in the elite of creation—Allah's prophets 00:32:38.259 --> 00:32:41.259 And messengers. As Nuh said: 00:32:41.259 --> 00:32:44.259 “Recite unto them the story of Noah, when he told his people: O my people! If my sojourn (here) and my reminding you by Allah's revelations are an offence unto you, in Allah have I put my trust, so decide upon your course of action you and your partners. Let not your course of action be in doubt for you. Then have at me, give me no respite.” (10:71) 00:32:44.259 --> 00:32:47.259 “Recite unto them the story of Noah, when he told his people: O my people! If my sojourn (here) and my reminding you by Allah's revelations are an offence unto you, in Allah have I put my trust, so decide upon your course of action you and your partners. Let not your course of action be in doubt for you. Then have at me, give me no respite.” (10:71) 00:32:47.259 --> 00:32:50.259 ﴾Upon Allah I have relied. 00:32:50.259 --> 00:32:53.259 So resolve upon your plan along with your partners,﴿ 00:32:53.259 --> 00:32:56.259 “Recite unto them the story of Noah, when he told his people: O my people! If my sojourn (here) and my reminding you by Allah's revelations are an offence unto you, in Allah have I put my trust, so decide upon your course of action you and your partners. Let not your course of action be in doubt for you. Then have at me, give me no respite.” (10:71) 00:32:56.259 --> 00:32:59.259 ﴾Then carry it out against me and do not give me respite.﴿ 00:32:59.259 --> 00:33:02.259 And Hud (peace be upon him) said: 00:33:02.259 --> 00:33:05.259 ﴾So scheme against me, all together, 00:33:05.259 --> 00:33:08.259 Then give me no respite.﴿ 00:33:08.259 --> 00:33:11.259 And Allah Almighty said regarding His Prophet Muhammad 00:33:11.259 --> 00:33:14.259 (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him): 00:33:14.259 --> 00:33:17.259 ﴾Say, "Call upon your partners then scheme against me, 00:33:17.259 --> 00:33:20.259 And give me no respite. 00:33:20.259 --> 00:33:23.259 Indeed, my protector is Allah, who revealed the Book, 00:33:23.259 --> 00:33:26.259 And He protects the righteous."﴿ 00:33:26.259 --> 00:33:29.480 Third: Attaining Allah's pleasure, 00:33:29.480 --> 00:33:32.480 His love, and His Paradise. 00:33:32.480 --> 00:33:35.480 For whoever performs what Allah loves and is pleased with— 00:33:35.480 --> 00:33:38.480 Which is the very essence of worship— 00:33:38.480 --> 00:33:41.480 Will undoubtedly attain His love and pleasure, 00:33:41.480 --> 00:33:44.480 And will be among the people of Paradise who delight 00:33:44.480 --> 00:33:47.480 In its bliss, the greatest of which is Allah's good pleasure. 00:33:47.480 --> 00:33:50.480 In a sacred hadith, 00:33:50.480 --> 00:33:53.480 Allah (Blessed and Exalted is He) says to the people of Paradise: 00:33:53.480 --> 00:33:56.480 "O people of Paradise!" 00:33:56.480 --> 00:33:59.480 They will reply: "At Your service, our Lord, 00:33:59.480 --> 00:34:02.480 And pleasure!" He will ask: "Are you pleased?" 00:34:03.480 --> 00:34:06.480 They will say: "Why should we not be pleased 00:34:06.480 --> 00:34:09.480 When You have given us what You have not given to anyone 00:34:09.480 --> 00:34:12.480 Of Your creation?" 00:34:12.480 --> 00:34:15.480 He will say: "I shall give you something better than that." 00:34:15.480 --> 00:34:18.480 They will ask: "O Lord, 00:34:18.480 --> 00:34:21.480 What thing could be better than that?" 00:34:21.480 --> 00:34:24.480 He will say: "I grant you My good pleasure, 00:34:24.480 --> 00:34:27.480 So I will never be displeased with you 00:34:27.480 --> 00:34:30.510 Ever again." 00:34:30.510 --> 00:34:33.539 Thus, it explicitly states that Allah's pleasure is superior 00:34:33.539 --> 00:34:36.829 To all the delights of Paradise. 00:34:36.829 --> 00:34:39.829 Fourth: Ascetic indifference toward worldly life 00:34:39.829 --> 00:34:43.539 And prioritizing the Hereafter over it. 00:34:43.539 --> 00:34:46.539 Summary of the concepts of Ahl al-Sunnah.