Two questions have often been put to me since the publication in Arabic of al-Wafa’ bi asma’ al nisa’ (Biographical dictionary of women narrators of hadith). This work was published in 43 volumes by Dar al-Minhaj from Jeddah in January 2021. The English translation of its muqaddima (preface) was first published in 2007 under the… Continue reading Two questions about the Dictionary of women scholars
Three questions related to the on-going pandemic
Being vaccinated while fasting: I have been asked about whether it is lawful to take the covid-19 vaccine while fasting. For some people, the chance to be vaccinated will come during the fasting month of Ramadan, and they are wondering if they should try to postpone their appointments. Sawm (fasting) means ‘abstaining from’. As a… Continue reading Three questions related to the on-going pandemic
The Ulama and Covid-19 vaccine
Translated by Syed Huzaifah Ali Nadwi, Cambridge In the last few days, there has been an increase in the number of inquiries and fatwas regarding the Covid-19 vaccine. I am also being asked such questions, and without giving a formal response, I hope that scholars and Muftis alike will consider my thoughts. Before making any… Continue reading The Ulama and Covid-19 vaccine
Why are the writings of the scholars unread? Address to the students of Madrasas (Islamic institutions)
There was a long period in human history when the writings of scholars were popular in every class because they were the best examples of knowledge and research and the highest example of eloquence. If we look at these writings even today, we can see great qualities and wisdom. Books such as Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, Ṣaḥīḥ… Continue reading Why are the writings of the scholars unread? Address to the students of Madrasas (Islamic institutions)
The worst stupidity
They asked: What is the worst stupidity? I replied: It is to associate with Allah. The polytheists are many types, but the inception is one: polytheism. They differ in its manifestation. Amongst them are those who carve idols, making monuments and statues to which they prostrate. Some worship the sun, moon, stars, earth, mountains, seas,… Continue reading The worst stupidity
When I had to reverse my car
There is a large population of South Asian Muslims in East London. Situated near Whitechapel station is the London Muslim Centre. I have taught numerous courses here and even now, give lectures from time to time. In 2006, I taught the Muwatta of Imam Malik for several months. This class was once a week and… Continue reading When I had to reverse my car
The Most Ridiculous Question
They asked: To atheists, we affirm the existence of God and point to the causes of everything, and then to the causes of those causes until we arrive at the cause of all causes, the Prime Mover, God, who is the creator of the heavens and earth. They then ask us who created God in… Continue reading The Most Ridiculous Question
The evil eye
A question was put to me by the well known Quranic scholar, Ustādh Nouman Ali Khan about the truth of the evil eye. The answer: Imam Bukhari narrates in his Sahih from Abu Hurayrah, and Imam Muslim narrates in his Sahih from Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with them both, that the Prophet, peace… Continue reading The evil eye
Practices on the days of Dhi l-Hijjah
It is recommended that one give special attention to the day of `Id al-Fitr and the ten days of Dhi l-Hijjah by remembering Allah and glorifying Him. `Abdullah ibn `Abbas reports that the Prophet ﷺ, said: “No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these days.” The Companions asked: “O… Continue reading Practices on the days of Dhi l-Hijjah
Questioning Your Studentship
Today (5th July, 2020) is the last day of this academic year at Al-Salam Institute. God willing, we will meet again in October. Just like every year, I have something to say to you today. Farewell speeches are cherished, everyone values them and tries to act upon them. Today I will not talk to you… Continue reading Questioning Your Studentship