Daily Ramadan Worship Routine
The most beautiful month has come upon us. Almighty Allah says: “The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Quran was sent down, a guidance for mankind, clear proofs for the guidance, the Criterion; so whoever amongst you witnesses this month, let him fast it." (Surah al-Baqarah 2:185)
In this blessed month good deeds are multiplied: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever draws near to Allah during it (Ramadan) with a single characteristic from the characteristics of (voluntary) goodness, he is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times. And whoever performs an obligatory act during it, he is like whoever performed seventy obligatory acts in other times.” (Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 1887)
So we should thank Allah abundantly for giving us the opportunity to be able to benefit from such a blessed month. But as we all know life is very uncertain & unfortunately many will have passed away before the coming of this blessed month & so it may well be our very last Ramadan as we may not be alive to see the next.
Therefore we should treat this Ramadan as our last and do our utmost to ensure that we maximize each precious second in this blessed month to ensure that we gain maximum benefit from it. The following articvle will enable us to maximize each and every precious second of this most blessed month!
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Morning
Upon Awakening
1. Awaken at least 20-30 mins before Fajr begins in order to pray the Tahajjud prayer.
Note: Dua's are readily accepted just before Fajr begins. So we should try and wake up earlier so that we can spend at least 5-10 minutes (if not more) in sincere Dua until Fajr begins.
2. Upon awakening one should rub both palms on the face and eyes so that the effects of sleep are removed. (Tirmidhi)
3. Then one should recite the following supplications:
Alhamdu lillaahil-ladhee 'ahyaanaa ba'da maa 'amaatanaa wa' ilayhin-nushoor.
Praise is to Allah Who gives us life after He has caused us to die and to Him is the return. (Bukhari)
Also recite:
Laa 'illaha 'illallahu wahdahu la shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa 'alaa kulli shay'in Qadeer Subhaanallahi, walhamdu lillaahi, wa laa 'ilaha 'illallahu, wallaahu 'akbar, wa laa hawla wa laa Quwwata 'illaa billaahil-'Aliyyil-'Adheem, Rabbighfir lee.
There is none worth of worship but Allah alone, Who has no partner, His is the dominion and to Him belongs all praise, and He is able to do all things. Glory is to Allah. Praise is to Allah. There is none worth of worship but Allah. Allah is the Most Great. There is no might and no powers except by Allah’s leave, the Exalted, the Mighty. My Lord, forgive me.
Whoever recites this will be forgiven, and if he supplicates Allah, his prayer will be answered; if he performs ablution and prays, his prayer will be accepted. (Bukhari)
4. To make Miswaak upon awakening is Sunnah (Abu Dawood)
Note: This is a separate Sunnah to when making Miswaak during Wudhu
Miswaak should be used for: During fasting. The recitation of Qur’an & Hadith. When mouth emits bad odour. For teaching or learning Islam. For making remembrance of Allah. Before intercourse. After entering one’s home. Before entering any good gathering. When experiencing pangs of hunger or thirst. After the time of Suhoor. Before meals. Before and after a journey. Before and after sleeping.
Toilet
5. Always enter toilet with left foot & recite:
[Bismillaahi] Allaahumma 'innee 'a'oothu bika minal-khubthi walkhabaa'ith.
(Before entering) [In the Name of Allah]. (Then) O Allah, I seek protection in You from the male and female unclean spirits. (Bukhari 1/45, Muslim 1/283)
6. Leave toilet with right foot & recite:
Ghufraanak. Alhamdulillaahilladhee adh-haba annill adhaa wa ‘afaanee
Oh Allah I seek Your forgiveness. All praises are due to Allah who has taken away from me discomfort and granted me relief. (Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah and Tirmidhi)
Wudu
7. It is Sunnah to make Miswaak during Wudu.
8. After performing Wudu recite the following:
'Ash-hadu 'an laa 'ilaaha 'illallaahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu wa 'ash-hadu 'anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa Rasooluhu.
I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah alone, Who has no partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger. (Muslim 1/209)
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: " If anyone amongst you performs the ablution perfectly and then says: I testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the servant of Allah and His Messenger, the eight gates of Paradise would be opened for him and he may enter by whichever of them he wishes". (Muslim)
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said,"He who performed ablution perfectly, his sins would come out from his body, even coming out from under his nails." (Muslim)
9. Performing two rak'ahs (Units of prayer) after ablution. Always pray 2 Raka’a Tahiyyatul Wudu after making Wudu, with full khushu (concentration) for paradise becomes obligatory (Wajib) for the performer (Muslim).
Abu Hurraira (Ra) narrated that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said to Bilaal (Ra) “Tell me about the most hopeful act (i.e. one which you deem the most rewarding with Allah) you have done since your acceptance of Islam because I heard the sound of the steps of your shoes in front of me in paradise.” Bilaal (Ra) said : “I do not consider any act more hopeful than that whenever I make ablution (Wudhu) at any time of night or day, I offer salaah (prayer) for as long as was destined for me to offer.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
Note: During Ramadan the reward of paying a nawafil (voluntary) prayer is that of a Fard (oblgatory) prayer.
Hair, beard, nails:(For more detailed information on this and all other Sunnah's refer to link below title)
10. Not to delay in cutting face and body hair for more than 40 days:
Annas (Ra) narrated: "A time limit has been prescribed for us for trimming the moustache, clipping the nails, plucking the hair under the armpits, shaving the pubes, that none of them should be left for more than forty nights." (Muslim)
11. The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) used to clip his nails either on Thursday or Friday. (Tirmidhi)
12. Regarding method of cutting nails: There is no evidence from the Sunnah regarding the method of cutting nails but it is recommended to start from the right hand from the index finger, then forefinger, ring finger and then little finger. Then to the left hand he started from the little finger across to the ring finger, forefinger, index finger, thumb and then lastly the thumb of the right hand.
When clipping the toe nails it is recommended to start on the small toe of the right foot and then work your way across till the small toe on the left foot.
Note: These methods of cutting the nails are recommended in (Fathul Bari,Vol.10: Page.345)
Getting dressed/undressed
13. Recite Bismillah (In the name of Allah) before dressing or undressing (Tirmidhi)
14. Sunnah way of dressing: When wearing one’s trousers, first put on the right leg, then the left one. When putting on a kurta or shirt, first put on the right sleeve and then the left one. The same procedure should be followed when wearing a vest. When wearing a shoe, first put on the right shoe. When removing any garment or shoe, first remove the left, then the right. This is the Sunnah method when removing any garment from the body (Bukhari, Tirmidhi “the chapter on clothing” and Shamaaile Tirmidhi).
15. Recite the following when getting dressed:
Alhamdu lillaahil-ladhee kasaanee haadhaa (aththawba) wa razaqaneehi min ghayri hawlim-minnee wa laaquwwatin.
Praise is to Allah Who has clothed me with this (garment) and provided it for me, though I was powerless myself and incapable (Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, Tirmidhi)
According to hadith in Abu Dawood: Whoever recites this dua whilst putting on clothes then his past and present minor sins are forgiven.
16. When one is getting undressed then one should say: بِسْمِ اللَّهِ Bismillaahi
Translation: In the Name of Allah. (Tirmidhi 2/505)
Sincerety and purifying Intentions
17. Purifying our Intentions
We should aim to purify & correct our intentions before fasting & doing any acts of worship in order to eradicate any underlying bad intentions or insincerety in our hearts. Much of the time we may not even realise that our intentions are not correct or that we are insincere. Therefore before doing any good we must ensure our intentions are ONLY to please Allah and that we are sincere. Having the right intentions will increase the sincerity in our worship and enable us to earn greater rewards for every good deed we do, even if it is a small good deed.
18. Make big intentions for every act throughout Ramadan:
Ibn Al-Mubaarak said: "Maybe a small action is made great by its intention, and maybe a great action is made small by its intention."
Daily routines like eating, drinking, sleeping, traveling etc can be a source of great reward by having the right intentions. Having good Intentions is easy & great rewards can be gained without making any hard physical effort. By just spending a couple of seconds having the right intention in our hearts we can turn a whole day to a day of worship. Like turning dust into gold.
Therefore we should make sincere intention that we are fasting solely for the pleasure of Allah for he knows what is hidden deep within our hearts. We should also make as many good intentions as possible for each and every good act as it maybe that a small deed may become big by making big intentions then imagine how much reward we will gain for making big intentions for big deeds like fasting during Ramadan and the fact that every good deed is mutliplied many times over!
19. Sincerety (Ikhlas)
How much reward we get for our good deeds or whether we get any reward at all, depends on the level of sincerety (Ikhlas) we have whilst doing good deeds. The more sincere we are the more we will be rewarded. The less sincerity we have the less we will be rewarded, if at all.
Therefore it is crucial that we do our utmost do be as sincere as possible when doing good actions. We must ONLY do every action for the pleasure of Allah and try our best never to reveal what good we have done to anyone else. The best good deeds are those that are hidden from others.
So let us be sincere as possible whilst doing good deeds and hide them from others as much as possible during this blessed month and throughout the year.
Tahajjud (The Night Vigil Prayer)
20. One of the best ways of getting closer to Allah this Ramadan is by increasing in our Nawafil (voluntary) prayers. The best prayer after the Fard (obligatory) prayers is Tahajjud. It can be prayed from after the Isha prayer up until just before Fajr begins.
Tahajjud can be prayed straight after Isha & Taraweeh prayers, or delayed until just before going to sleep. The best time to pray Tahajjud is to sleep first and then wake up to pray in the last third portion of the night or just before Fajr begins. So you calculate how many hours there are from Maghrib up until Fajr and divide the hours by 3 and pray in the third part of the night.
21. It is recommended to pray between 2-12 Raka’a of Tahajjud prayer. It is better to pray at least 8 Raka'a's. One should recite as much Qur’an as one knows in each Raka’a and make long Ruku and prostrations (Sajda).
22. At the time of Tahajjud Dua’s are readily accepted, so it is the best opportunity for one to make long, sincere and intense Dua’s, asking of Allah, crying if one can as Allah tends to his slave who cries in Dua quicker, just as a mother tends quickly to its crying baby. But the love that Allah has for his slave is far more than a mother does for it's child.
Repentance
Allah is the most gracious most merciful. He says in the Qur'an:
"Do not despair of Allah's mercy; He will forgive you of all your sins".Qur'an (39:53).
Ramadan is the month of mercy and therfore the best time to beg and ask of Allah for forgiveness.
23. Do as much Isthighfar (repentance) as possible from awakening in the morning up until sleeping at night. For Allah loves those who repent much and ask of him for his mercy and forgiveness. Especially in the latter part of the night when most are deep in their sleep. He loves to forgive and finds every excuse to forgive his slaves. Therefore ask of Allah for forgiveness as much as possible.
24. The following dua should be recited as much as possible during Ramadan particularly the last 10 nights of Ramadan:
Aisha (RA) said: I asked the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam): 'O Messenger of Allah, if I know what night is the night of Qadr, what should I say during it?' He said Say:
"Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee
Trans: 'Say: O Allah, You are pardoning & You love to pardon, so pardon me.' " (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, & Tirmidhi).
25. One should also recite much of the following Dua: Asthaghfirullah halladhee laa ilaaha ilallahuwal hayyul qayyumu wa athubu ilay
I seek forgiveness from Allah besides whom there is none worthy of worship, the living, the Sustainer of life and to Him I repent. (Tirmidhi-Vol.2, pg.177)
26. Seeking forgiveness for every believer will earn a reward for every believer we ask Allah to forgive: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever seeks forgiveness for the believing men and believing women, Allah will write for him a good deed for each believing man and believing woman.” (Tabarani)
27. Let us not be of those who pass by Ramadan without gaining any forgiveness:
The Prophet (sallahu’ ‘alaihi wasallam) said: ...the angel Jibra’il appeared before me and said: Destruction to him who found the blessed month of Ramadan and let it pass by without gaining forgiveness...’ Upon that I said: ‘Amin.’ (Al-Bukhari, Al-Tabrani)
We should ask of Allah to accept all of our good deeds & efforts throughout Ramadan & be hopeful that Allah will accept it from us. We should also have FULL hope that Allah will accept our Dua’s if not in this world then in the hereafter. We should accept his decree for he knows best in all matters.
Dua (Supplication)
Ramadan is one of the best times of the year to make sincere Dua. Therefore one should not miss out on the opportunity to make long sincere dua's begging of Allah for mercy and forgiveness.
28. To abstain from haraam (forbidden) food, clothing and earnings. (Muslim, Tirmidhi) as doing haraam will prevent ones Dua being accepted
29. To make Wudu before the Dua (All six major Hadith collections)
30. To make Dua with sincerity. In other words, one should firmly believe that nobody but Allah will fulfil his objectives. (Hakim)
31. Try to cry whilst making Dua to Allah as he attends to his servants quicker when they are crying with meekness and humility just as a mother tends to her baby quickly when it cries out for its mother. If one cannot cry then one must at least try and simulate the act of crying.
32. Do not be impatient with the acceptance of Dua’s. In other words, don't say: "I've made Dua repeatedly but to no avail." (Bukhari, Muslim)
33. The times when Dua's are most accepted during Ramadan are:
1. The third portion of the night shortly before sehri ends. 2. Whilst fasting. 3. Between Asr & Maghrib. 4. Just before fast opens. 5. On Jumma before & after khutba. 6. Between Adhan & Iqamah. 7. Whilst raining. 8. After Qur'an recitation. 9. The Night of Qadr
Travel
34. When leaving home on the commencement of a journey one should read the following dua:
Bismillaahi thawakkalthu alallahi wala hawla wala quwatha illah billah
“In the name of Allah, I trust in Allah, there is no power and might except from Allah”. (Mishkaat)
35. When one boards any vehicle, he should read: “Bismillah”:- In the name of Allah
36. When seated one should read: - “Alhamdulillah”:- All praise be to Allah
Thereafter one should read the following dua:
Subhaanalladhee sakharalana haadhaa wamaa kunnaa lahu muqrineen wa innaa ilaa rabinaa lamun qaliboon
Purity belongs to Allah, who has subjected this conveyance for us and we were not capable of controlling it and surely to our sustainer we are to return” (Mishkaat)
37. Then one should say the following three times:
Alhamdulillah: - All praise be to Allah
Allaahu Akbar: - Allah is the greatest
Laa ilaaha ilallah: - There is no worthy of worship except Allah
38. Then follow this with dua of repentance:-
Subhaanaka innee dhalamtu nafsee fa’ghfirlee innahu laa yaghfirudhunuba illaa anth
Purity belongs to You. Surely I have wronged myself so forgive me. Indeed none forgives sins besides You. (Mishkaat)
39. When one ascends or attempts to reach any height then one should say: “Allaahu Akbar”:- Allah is the greatest.
40. When descending from any height then one should say: “Subhaanallah”:- Purity belongs to Allah.
41. When one slips or experiences an accident they should say: “Laa ilaaha ilallaahu wallaahu akbar”:- There is no worthy of worship except Allah he is the greatest. (Hisnul Hasin)
42. Always do the Dua's of leaving/entering the house. When leaving the house:
Bismillaahi, tawakkaltu 'alallaahi, wa laa hawla wa laa quwwata ‘illaa billaah.
In the Name of Allah, I have placed my trust in Allah; there is no might and no power except by Allah. (Abu Dawud 4/325, At-Tirmidhi 5/490)
43. When entering one's home then greet the occupants with salaam and recite the following du'aa:
Bismillaahi walajnaa, wa bismillaahi kharajnaa, wa 'alaaRabblnaa tawakkalnaa
In the Name of Allah we enter, in the Name of Allah we leave, and upon our Lord we depend [then say Asalaamu 'Alaikum to those present].
One should mention the Name of Allah upon entering the home and when beginning to eat; and that the devil, hearing this, says: "There is no shelter for us here tonight and no food." (Abu Dawud 4/325. Muslim {Hadith no. 2018)
Greeting the family or occupants of the home when entering or leaving the house is a means of great reward. The person who enters the home with salaam is under the protection of Allah (Abu Dawud) and when one enters and does not remember Allah (By saying salaam) then Shaythaan invites his followers to the home saying “you have accommodation for the night”” by saying salaam to the family that person and their family receives blessings (Abu Dawood) Even if no one is at home then by saying salaam the angels greet one back.
45. On entering a market / shopping centre recite the following:
Laa ilaaha illallaahu wahdahu Laa shareeka lahu, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu yuhyee wa yumeetu wa huwa hayyul Laa yamootu, biyadihil khayr wa huwa alaa kulli shay'in qadeer
There is no deity except Allah, the Only One. He has no partner. To Him belongs all kingdom and to Him belongs all praise. He is the One who gives life and death. And He is Ever-living and no death comes to Him. In His Hand lies all good and He has power over everything.
It is reported in a Hadith that for reciting these words, Allah will record one million good deeds, forgive one million sins, elevate the status a million times and build a house for him in Jannah. (Mishkaat)
Masjid
It is disliked for men to pray at home without any excuse: Abu Hurairah (Ra) reports that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "By Him in whose hand is my soul! I have considered ordering a fire to be kindled and then ask someone to lead the people in Salaah. And then go to the men [who did not attend the prayer] and burn their houses over them." (Bukhari & Muslim)
46. Men should strive to pray every Fard Salaah at the Masjid as the Salaah is rewarded 27 times or more and each step is rewarded. Women get the same reward for praying at home.
Note: During Ramadan these rewards are increased by 70 times or more.
47. For more reward & also to increase blessings in ones home Men should pray Sunnah’s and Nawafil prayers at home. If one knows one will get lazy at home then one should pray the Sunnah’s & Nawafils at the Masjid.
48. Make Wudu at home and then walk to the Masjid by taking smaller steps or going the longest way to the Masjid as one is rewarded for each step:
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Whoever purifies in his house and walks to the mosque to perform obligatory prayer, his steps are counted as one expiates a sin and the other raises his rank" (Muslim)
49. Upon entering the Masjid:
To recite durood upon entering (Ibn Majah, Faydhul Qadeer)
Then recite:
Allaahummnaftah lee abwaaba rahmati
Oh Allah! Open the Doors of Your Mercy for me. (Ibn Majah)
On leaving the Masjid recite:
Allaah-humma In-nee As`aluka Min Fadhlika.
O Allaah, I seek of You Your Grace. (Nas'ai)
50 . Always pray 2 Raka’a Tahiyyatul Masjid on arrival at the Masjid:
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “When one of you enters the Masjid, let him not sit until he prays two Raka’a’s”. (Bukhari and Muslim).
51. Always take care to respect the Adaab (etiquette) of the Masjid)
52. On entering Masjid Always make intention of Nawafil I’thikaaf and one will be rewarded for the duration of the stay at the Masjid even if it's for a short while.
53. Strive to pray every prayer in the front row:
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “If the people knew what (reward) there is in the call (Adhan) and praying in the first row, and there was no other way to settle the matter than drawing lots, then they would draw lots for it”. (Bukhari and Muslim)
54. Care should be taken that the rows are straightened when praying with congregation
Adhan/Iqaamah
55. Upon Hearing the Call to Prayer (Adhaan):
First send blessings and salutations (Salawat) upon the Messenger of Allah (Muslim Vol.1 pg.166)
Then recite the following:
Allahumma Rabbi Haadhi idda’ wathithaama waswalaathil qaa ima aathi Muhammadawaseelatha walfadeelah wab ‘as hoo maqaa mammahmooda nilladhi wa atha [innaka laa thukh liful mee ‘aad]
O Allah, Lord of this perfect call and established prayer, grant Muhammad a place near to You, an excellence and exalted degree, and raise him to the praiseworthy station that You have promised him. (Al-Bukhari 1/152 and the addition between brackets is from Al-Bayhaqi 1/410 with a good (Hasan) chain of narration).
56. Whoever recites this dua will gain the intercession of the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) on the Day of Judgement. (Bukhari)
57. By reciting this dua, the intercession of Prophet Mohammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) becomes Waajib (Compulsory). (Mishkaat)
Replying to Iqaamah:
58. It is Musthahab (Preferrable) to reply to the Iqaamah by repeating the same words similar to that of the Adhaan however in reply to “Qad qaamatis salaah” one should say:
Aqaamahallahu Wa adaamaha
“May Allah establish and perpetuate this Salah” (Abu Dawood)
59. When reading Fard Salaat at home it is preferable to say Iqaamah even if you’re praying on your own.
Note: Dua’s are readily accepted between Azaan and Iqaamah so this precious time should be spent in dua and Dhikr.
Women on menses
60. Women on their menses can still gain the same rewards in Ramadan as men if not more by: Doing excessive Dhikr, making sincere Dua and repentance, listening to Qur'an, reading Islamic books, tafseer, seerah, listening to lectures, pondering and contemplating over the greatness of Allah, Sadaqa and giving in charity, looking after their family,partner,children and relatives, serving their parents, giving dawah, doing charitable work and helping their local communities etc.
Praying Nawafil (voluntary) prayers
What better way of drawing closer to Allah than by praying the voluntary prayers:
Allah says in Hadith Qudsi:
....And My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawafil (voluntary deeds) until I love him, [Bukhari]
During Ramadan every Nawafil prayed is the Reward of praying a Fard Salaah:
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever draws near to Allaah during it (Ramadaan) with a single characteristic from the characteristics of (voluntary) goodness, he is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times. And whoever performs an obligatory act during it, he is like whoever performed seventy obligatory acts in other times.” – Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 1887.
Want the company of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Jannah:
Rabi'ah Ibn Malik al-Aslami reported that the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said: "Ask (anything)." Rabi'ah (Ra) said: "I ask of you to be your companion in paradise." The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Or anything else?" Rabi'ah (Ra) said: "That is it." The Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said to him: "Then help me by making many prostrations (i.e., Nawafil prayers)." (Muslim)
A palace in Paradise for those who pray 12 units of voluntary prayers everyday: - 2 Sunnah of Fajr, 4 Sunnah & 2 Sunnah of Dhuhr & 2 Sunnah of Maghrib
Umm Habibah Ramilah bint Abu Sufyan (RA) narrated she heard the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) saying: “A house will be built in Paradise for every Muslim who offers twelve units of Prayers other than the obligatory ones in day & night, to seek pleasure of Allah.” (Muslim)
We should try to make the best of every opportunity we have in our day, in order to do Nawafil (voluntary) prayers for it will help us in the grave and in the hereafter and it will make us closer to Allah and enable us to be in the company of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Jannah.
Food and drink
The Prophet never ate to his fill: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) never ate to his fill. He only ate if he was hungry. He emphasised that one third of the stomach should be for food and another for water and the other for the stomach itself. (Tirmidhi & Ibn Majah)
61. To spread cloth on the floor to lay food on (Bukhari)
62. To wash hands and gargle before eating (Tirmidhi)
63. To make intention that, “I am eating to gain strength for Allah’s Ibaadah (Worship)”. (Attargheeb)
Note: By making good intentions like the above then eating and drinking becomes a worship
64. To say Bismillah loud (Bukhari, Muslim- Shami, Vol.5)
Note: This is so as to remind others who are also eating to say it as well.
65. To eat with the right hand (Bukhari, Muslim)
66. When taking food and when giving to someone then the right hand should be used. (Ibn Majah)
67. The one who is most pious or senior from those eating should be made to commence eating first. (Muslim- Vol.2 pg. 171)
68. To eat together and not individually (Abu Dawud)
69. The more people eating together then the greater the blessings and reward. (Mishkaat)
70. If only one type of food is in the utensil, eat from the side in front of you. (Bukhari, Muslim)
71. If two or more people are eating together from the same plate then each person should eat that food which is closest to them, it is incorrect to eat that food which is in the middle or in front of others. (Tirmidhi)
72. If a variety of dishes are served then it is permissible to partake in any of the dishes one wishes to have and leave alone that which he does not want to partake in without passing any remarks. (Tirmidhi)
73. If a morsel falls, pick it up, clean it and eat it. (Muslim)
74. Any fallen crumbs or pieces of food should be picked up and eaten and not left for Shaythaan. (Ibn Majah)
75. Do not lean and eat as Rasulallah never leaned on anything whilst eating. (Bukhari, Abu Dawood)
76. Do not find fault with the food. (Bukhari, Muslim)
77. If a big chunk of meat is served then it is permissible to cut it with a knife (Bukhari, Muslim)
78. Whilst eating if a visitor comes then he should be requested to partake in the meals (Muslim)
79. Small pieces of meat should not be cut with a knife but with the teeth as this aid with digestion (Tirmidhi)
80. Steaming food which is too hot should not be eaten until it has cooled down (Ahmad)
81. Do not blow onto food (Tirmidhi)
82. To have vinegar and honey in the house is Sunnah (Tirmidhi)
83. Always be satisfied and content with whatever quantity or quality of food Allah has given us as it is a bounty from Allah (Malik)
84. Remove the shoes while eating. (Mishkaat)
85. When eating, sit either with both knees raised and the posterior on the ground or by raising one knee and keeping the other on the ground. A third posture is to sit with both knees on the ground (as in the position of Qa’dah) and lean forward to eat. (Mirqaat- commentary of Mishkaat)
86. If one can easily eat with three fingers then he should do so and not unnecessarily use the fourth, so the extra fingers should be used only if needed (Attargheeb)
87. To recite the following dua before eating:
Bismilllaahi wa ‘alaa barakathillah
“In the name of Allah and with the blessings of Allah”. (Abu Dawud)
88. If one forgets to read Bismillah before eating then once they remember then they should recite:
Bismillaahi awwalahu wa aakhirahu
In the name of Allah at the beginning and until the end of it (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud)
89. Clean the plate and other eating utensils thoroughly after eating. The utensils will then make dua for one’s forgiveness. (Ibn Majah)
90. When eating together one should stay and accompany the slower eaters but if this is not possible then one can excuse one self after finishing eating. (Ibn Majah)
91. If several people are eating dates and grapes or something similar then they should not take in two’s except for the permission of their companions. (Bukhari)
92. To remove worms from dates, fruits etc before eating it. (Abu Dawud)
93. If a servant has cooked the food then he should be requested to eat with the group or at least separately. (Ibn Majah)
94. To lick the fingers after eating. (Muslim)
95. The middle finger should be licked first followed by the index and finally the thumb, the little finger and ring fingers should be licked. (Tabarani)
96. Recite the following dua after eating:
Alhamdulilahiladhi ath ‘amanaa wasaqaana waja’lanaa minal muslimeen.
All praise is due to Allah who has granted us food and drink and has made us Muslims. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood, Ibn Majah)
97. Wash both hands. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood)
98. Gargle the mouth. (Bukhari)
99. The habit of gargling water together with washing hands after meals is a source of great blessings. (Ibn Majah)
100. Invocation for someone who gives you a drink or offers it to you:
Allaahumma 'at'im man 'at'amanee wasqi man saqaanee.
O Allah feed the one who has fed me and drink to the one who has given me drink. (Muslim 3/126)
102. When dining at someone’s house then the following dua should be made for them:
Allaahumma baarik lahum feemaa razaqthahum waghfirlahum war hamhum
Oh Allah bless them in what You have given them to eat and forgive them and be merciful to them. (Muslim)
103. It is Sunnah to partake of some vinegar: That house in which vinegar is found will not be regarded as empty of gravy. (Ibn Majah)
104. Using Barley is Sunnah: If a person uses only wheat (to make his bread), he should also add a little barley so as to get the Sawaab (reward) of acting on a Sunnah. (Bukhari 7:71:593)
105. To eat meat is Sunnah: It is reported in a Hadith that the most superior food of this world and the hereafter is meat. (Jaamia Sageer - Vol.2, pg. 34)
106. To accept the invitation of one’s fellow Muslim is a Sunnah. (Abu Dawood)
Note: However if (the major portion of) his income is from interest, bribery or any other haraam source, then his invitation should not be accepted.
107. It is Sunnah to give food to the family of the deceased. (Ibn Majah)
108. Never eat with left hand:
Jabir (Ra) Narrated the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Do not eat with your left hand for Shaytaan eats with his left hand,” (Muslim)
109. Never waste food:
Jabir (Ra) Narrated the Prophet commanded us never to waste food, because food that we waste is eaten by Shaytaan. He (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said:“The Shaytaan is present with everyone of you in everything he does; he is even present when he eats food, so if any on of you drops a mouthful, he should remove away anything filthy on it and eat it and not leave it for the devil; and when he finished, he should lick his fingers for he does not know in what portion of his food the blessing ties.” (Muslim)
110. Never overfill your stomach:
Ibn Umar (Ra) Narrated the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “A Believer eats in one intestine, whereas a non-believer eats in seven intestines,” (Muslim)
Note:Therefore it is not for us to eat untill we are completely satiated; rather we should eat so much that the hunger goes but there is still room for more and to breathe properly.
111. Thank Allah abundantly for providing us with food:
We have an excellent opportunity to transform an everyday practice of eating and drinking into an act of worship and a source of blessing for us. Every mouthful of food we take will serve as a reminder of Allah’s great favour upon us and His Mercy and this in turn will cause us to earn favour with Allah, for the Prophet said:
Annas (Ra) narrated that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Indeed Allah is pleased with His servant who, when he eats a morsel, praises Him for it, or drinks a sip and then praises Him for it.” (Muslim)
Sunnah’s of drink
112. To recite Bismillah- “In the name of Allah”- before drinking and Alhamdulillah- All praise be to Allah”- after drinking (Bukhari, Tirmidhi)
113. Drink with the right hand as Shaythaan drinks with the left hand. (Muslim)
114. Sit and drink as it is forbidden to drink whilst standing (Muslim)
115. To stand and drink Zamzam water and water left over after making Wudhu (Tirmidhi)
Note: It is far better to sit whilst drinking water but Zamzam should be drunk standing.
116. Drink in three breathes (Sips) and after each sip take away utensil from mouth. (Muslim, Tirmidhi)
117. Avoid drinking from the side of the utensil which is chipped (Abu Dawud)
118. Do not drink directly from the chipped, the spout of a jug or from any such utensil from which the water gushes out very quickly (causing one to choke) or from such a utensil in which there is a possibility that a snake or scorpion etc. may have crept in. (Bukhari, Muslim)
119. The person who serves others should himself take last. (Tirmidhi)
120. After drinking from the utensil if the water is to be passed then let it be passed from the right who will pass it to his right and the procedure will continue till the end (Bukhari, Muslim)
Note: The same sequence can be applied when passing around Tea or anything else
121. The following dua to be recited after drinking Milk:
Allaahummah baarik lanaa feehi wazid lanaa minhu
Oh Allah grant us abundance in it (The Milk) and increase it for us. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud)
122. After drinking water the following should be recited:
Alhamdu lillaahiladhee saqaana ‘adhban foraathan birahmathihee walam yaj’alhoo milhan ujaajan bidhunu binaa
All praise is due to Allah who gave us fresh, sweet water to drink through his mercy and did not make it salty or bitter due to our sins. (Roohul Ma’ani, pg.149, 27[SUP]th[/SUP] chapter)
Continued
The most beautiful month has come upon us. Almighty Allah says: “The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Quran was sent down, a guidance for mankind, clear proofs for the guidance, the Criterion; so whoever amongst you witnesses this month, let him fast it." (Surah al-Baqarah 2:185)
In this blessed month good deeds are multiplied: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever draws near to Allah during it (Ramadan) with a single characteristic from the characteristics of (voluntary) goodness, he is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times. And whoever performs an obligatory act during it, he is like whoever performed seventy obligatory acts in other times.” (Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 1887)
So we should thank Allah abundantly for giving us the opportunity to be able to benefit from such a blessed month. But as we all know life is very uncertain & unfortunately many will have passed away before the coming of this blessed month & so it may well be our very last Ramadan as we may not be alive to see the next.
Therefore we should treat this Ramadan as our last and do our utmost to ensure that we maximize each precious second in this blessed month to ensure that we gain maximum benefit from it. The following articvle will enable us to maximize each and every precious second of this most blessed month!
Download the entire Beautiful Daily Sunnah collection: http://sdrv.ms/Pmw9gn
Morning
Upon Awakening
1. Awaken at least 20-30 mins before Fajr begins in order to pray the Tahajjud prayer.
Note: Dua's are readily accepted just before Fajr begins. So we should try and wake up earlier so that we can spend at least 5-10 minutes (if not more) in sincere Dua until Fajr begins.
2. Upon awakening one should rub both palms on the face and eyes so that the effects of sleep are removed. (Tirmidhi)
3. Then one should recite the following supplications:
Alhamdu lillaahil-ladhee 'ahyaanaa ba'da maa 'amaatanaa wa' ilayhin-nushoor.
Praise is to Allah Who gives us life after He has caused us to die and to Him is the return. (Bukhari)
Also recite:
Laa 'illaha 'illallahu wahdahu la shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa 'alaa kulli shay'in Qadeer Subhaanallahi, walhamdu lillaahi, wa laa 'ilaha 'illallahu, wallaahu 'akbar, wa laa hawla wa laa Quwwata 'illaa billaahil-'Aliyyil-'Adheem, Rabbighfir lee.
There is none worth of worship but Allah alone, Who has no partner, His is the dominion and to Him belongs all praise, and He is able to do all things. Glory is to Allah. Praise is to Allah. There is none worth of worship but Allah. Allah is the Most Great. There is no might and no powers except by Allah’s leave, the Exalted, the Mighty. My Lord, forgive me.
Whoever recites this will be forgiven, and if he supplicates Allah, his prayer will be answered; if he performs ablution and prays, his prayer will be accepted. (Bukhari)
4. To make Miswaak upon awakening is Sunnah (Abu Dawood)
Note: This is a separate Sunnah to when making Miswaak during Wudhu
Miswaak should be used for: During fasting. The recitation of Qur’an & Hadith. When mouth emits bad odour. For teaching or learning Islam. For making remembrance of Allah. Before intercourse. After entering one’s home. Before entering any good gathering. When experiencing pangs of hunger or thirst. After the time of Suhoor. Before meals. Before and after a journey. Before and after sleeping.
Toilet
5. Always enter toilet with left foot & recite:
[Bismillaahi] Allaahumma 'innee 'a'oothu bika minal-khubthi walkhabaa'ith.
(Before entering) [In the Name of Allah]. (Then) O Allah, I seek protection in You from the male and female unclean spirits. (Bukhari 1/45, Muslim 1/283)
6. Leave toilet with right foot & recite:
Ghufraanak. Alhamdulillaahilladhee adh-haba annill adhaa wa ‘afaanee
Oh Allah I seek Your forgiveness. All praises are due to Allah who has taken away from me discomfort and granted me relief. (Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah and Tirmidhi)
Wudu
7. It is Sunnah to make Miswaak during Wudu.
8. After performing Wudu recite the following:
'Ash-hadu 'an laa 'ilaaha 'illallaahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu wa 'ash-hadu 'anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa Rasooluhu.
I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah alone, Who has no partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger. (Muslim 1/209)
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: " If anyone amongst you performs the ablution perfectly and then says: I testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the servant of Allah and His Messenger, the eight gates of Paradise would be opened for him and he may enter by whichever of them he wishes". (Muslim)
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said,"He who performed ablution perfectly, his sins would come out from his body, even coming out from under his nails." (Muslim)
9. Performing two rak'ahs (Units of prayer) after ablution. Always pray 2 Raka’a Tahiyyatul Wudu after making Wudu, with full khushu (concentration) for paradise becomes obligatory (Wajib) for the performer (Muslim).
Abu Hurraira (Ra) narrated that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said to Bilaal (Ra) “Tell me about the most hopeful act (i.e. one which you deem the most rewarding with Allah) you have done since your acceptance of Islam because I heard the sound of the steps of your shoes in front of me in paradise.” Bilaal (Ra) said : “I do not consider any act more hopeful than that whenever I make ablution (Wudhu) at any time of night or day, I offer salaah (prayer) for as long as was destined for me to offer.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
Note: During Ramadan the reward of paying a nawafil (voluntary) prayer is that of a Fard (oblgatory) prayer.
Hair, beard, nails:(For more detailed information on this and all other Sunnah's refer to link below title)
10. Not to delay in cutting face and body hair for more than 40 days:
Annas (Ra) narrated: "A time limit has been prescribed for us for trimming the moustache, clipping the nails, plucking the hair under the armpits, shaving the pubes, that none of them should be left for more than forty nights." (Muslim)
11. The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) used to clip his nails either on Thursday or Friday. (Tirmidhi)
12. Regarding method of cutting nails: There is no evidence from the Sunnah regarding the method of cutting nails but it is recommended to start from the right hand from the index finger, then forefinger, ring finger and then little finger. Then to the left hand he started from the little finger across to the ring finger, forefinger, index finger, thumb and then lastly the thumb of the right hand.
When clipping the toe nails it is recommended to start on the small toe of the right foot and then work your way across till the small toe on the left foot.
Note: These methods of cutting the nails are recommended in (Fathul Bari,Vol.10: Page.345)
Getting dressed/undressed
13. Recite Bismillah (In the name of Allah) before dressing or undressing (Tirmidhi)
14. Sunnah way of dressing: When wearing one’s trousers, first put on the right leg, then the left one. When putting on a kurta or shirt, first put on the right sleeve and then the left one. The same procedure should be followed when wearing a vest. When wearing a shoe, first put on the right shoe. When removing any garment or shoe, first remove the left, then the right. This is the Sunnah method when removing any garment from the body (Bukhari, Tirmidhi “the chapter on clothing” and Shamaaile Tirmidhi).
15. Recite the following when getting dressed:
Alhamdu lillaahil-ladhee kasaanee haadhaa (aththawba) wa razaqaneehi min ghayri hawlim-minnee wa laaquwwatin.
Praise is to Allah Who has clothed me with this (garment) and provided it for me, though I was powerless myself and incapable (Al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, Tirmidhi)
According to hadith in Abu Dawood: Whoever recites this dua whilst putting on clothes then his past and present minor sins are forgiven.
16. When one is getting undressed then one should say: بِسْمِ اللَّهِ Bismillaahi
Translation: In the Name of Allah. (Tirmidhi 2/505)
Sincerety and purifying Intentions
17. Purifying our Intentions
We should aim to purify & correct our intentions before fasting & doing any acts of worship in order to eradicate any underlying bad intentions or insincerety in our hearts. Much of the time we may not even realise that our intentions are not correct or that we are insincere. Therefore before doing any good we must ensure our intentions are ONLY to please Allah and that we are sincere. Having the right intentions will increase the sincerity in our worship and enable us to earn greater rewards for every good deed we do, even if it is a small good deed.
18. Make big intentions for every act throughout Ramadan:
Ibn Al-Mubaarak said: "Maybe a small action is made great by its intention, and maybe a great action is made small by its intention."
Daily routines like eating, drinking, sleeping, traveling etc can be a source of great reward by having the right intentions. Having good Intentions is easy & great rewards can be gained without making any hard physical effort. By just spending a couple of seconds having the right intention in our hearts we can turn a whole day to a day of worship. Like turning dust into gold.
Therefore we should make sincere intention that we are fasting solely for the pleasure of Allah for he knows what is hidden deep within our hearts. We should also make as many good intentions as possible for each and every good act as it maybe that a small deed may become big by making big intentions then imagine how much reward we will gain for making big intentions for big deeds like fasting during Ramadan and the fact that every good deed is mutliplied many times over!
19. Sincerety (Ikhlas)
How much reward we get for our good deeds or whether we get any reward at all, depends on the level of sincerety (Ikhlas) we have whilst doing good deeds. The more sincere we are the more we will be rewarded. The less sincerity we have the less we will be rewarded, if at all.
Therefore it is crucial that we do our utmost do be as sincere as possible when doing good actions. We must ONLY do every action for the pleasure of Allah and try our best never to reveal what good we have done to anyone else. The best good deeds are those that are hidden from others.
So let us be sincere as possible whilst doing good deeds and hide them from others as much as possible during this blessed month and throughout the year.
Tahajjud (The Night Vigil Prayer)
20. One of the best ways of getting closer to Allah this Ramadan is by increasing in our Nawafil (voluntary) prayers. The best prayer after the Fard (obligatory) prayers is Tahajjud. It can be prayed from after the Isha prayer up until just before Fajr begins.
Tahajjud can be prayed straight after Isha & Taraweeh prayers, or delayed until just before going to sleep. The best time to pray Tahajjud is to sleep first and then wake up to pray in the last third portion of the night or just before Fajr begins. So you calculate how many hours there are from Maghrib up until Fajr and divide the hours by 3 and pray in the third part of the night.
21. It is recommended to pray between 2-12 Raka’a of Tahajjud prayer. It is better to pray at least 8 Raka'a's. One should recite as much Qur’an as one knows in each Raka’a and make long Ruku and prostrations (Sajda).
22. At the time of Tahajjud Dua’s are readily accepted, so it is the best opportunity for one to make long, sincere and intense Dua’s, asking of Allah, crying if one can as Allah tends to his slave who cries in Dua quicker, just as a mother tends quickly to its crying baby. But the love that Allah has for his slave is far more than a mother does for it's child.
Repentance
Allah is the most gracious most merciful. He says in the Qur'an:
"Do not despair of Allah's mercy; He will forgive you of all your sins".Qur'an (39:53).
Ramadan is the month of mercy and therfore the best time to beg and ask of Allah for forgiveness.
23. Do as much Isthighfar (repentance) as possible from awakening in the morning up until sleeping at night. For Allah loves those who repent much and ask of him for his mercy and forgiveness. Especially in the latter part of the night when most are deep in their sleep. He loves to forgive and finds every excuse to forgive his slaves. Therefore ask of Allah for forgiveness as much as possible.
24. The following dua should be recited as much as possible during Ramadan particularly the last 10 nights of Ramadan:
Aisha (RA) said: I asked the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam): 'O Messenger of Allah, if I know what night is the night of Qadr, what should I say during it?' He said Say:
"Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee
Trans: 'Say: O Allah, You are pardoning & You love to pardon, so pardon me.' " (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, & Tirmidhi).
25. One should also recite much of the following Dua: Asthaghfirullah halladhee laa ilaaha ilallahuwal hayyul qayyumu wa athubu ilay
I seek forgiveness from Allah besides whom there is none worthy of worship, the living, the Sustainer of life and to Him I repent. (Tirmidhi-Vol.2, pg.177)
26. Seeking forgiveness for every believer will earn a reward for every believer we ask Allah to forgive: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever seeks forgiveness for the believing men and believing women, Allah will write for him a good deed for each believing man and believing woman.” (Tabarani)
27. Let us not be of those who pass by Ramadan without gaining any forgiveness:
The Prophet (sallahu’ ‘alaihi wasallam) said: ...the angel Jibra’il appeared before me and said: Destruction to him who found the blessed month of Ramadan and let it pass by without gaining forgiveness...’ Upon that I said: ‘Amin.’ (Al-Bukhari, Al-Tabrani)
We should ask of Allah to accept all of our good deeds & efforts throughout Ramadan & be hopeful that Allah will accept it from us. We should also have FULL hope that Allah will accept our Dua’s if not in this world then in the hereafter. We should accept his decree for he knows best in all matters.
Dua (Supplication)
Ramadan is one of the best times of the year to make sincere Dua. Therefore one should not miss out on the opportunity to make long sincere dua's begging of Allah for mercy and forgiveness.
28. To abstain from haraam (forbidden) food, clothing and earnings. (Muslim, Tirmidhi) as doing haraam will prevent ones Dua being accepted
29. To make Wudu before the Dua (All six major Hadith collections)
30. To make Dua with sincerity. In other words, one should firmly believe that nobody but Allah will fulfil his objectives. (Hakim)
31. Try to cry whilst making Dua to Allah as he attends to his servants quicker when they are crying with meekness and humility just as a mother tends to her baby quickly when it cries out for its mother. If one cannot cry then one must at least try and simulate the act of crying.
32. Do not be impatient with the acceptance of Dua’s. In other words, don't say: "I've made Dua repeatedly but to no avail." (Bukhari, Muslim)
33. The times when Dua's are most accepted during Ramadan are:
1. The third portion of the night shortly before sehri ends. 2. Whilst fasting. 3. Between Asr & Maghrib. 4. Just before fast opens. 5. On Jumma before & after khutba. 6. Between Adhan & Iqamah. 7. Whilst raining. 8. After Qur'an recitation. 9. The Night of Qadr
Travel
34. When leaving home on the commencement of a journey one should read the following dua:
Bismillaahi thawakkalthu alallahi wala hawla wala quwatha illah billah
“In the name of Allah, I trust in Allah, there is no power and might except from Allah”. (Mishkaat)
35. When one boards any vehicle, he should read: “Bismillah”:- In the name of Allah
36. When seated one should read: - “Alhamdulillah”:- All praise be to Allah
Thereafter one should read the following dua:
Subhaanalladhee sakharalana haadhaa wamaa kunnaa lahu muqrineen wa innaa ilaa rabinaa lamun qaliboon
Purity belongs to Allah, who has subjected this conveyance for us and we were not capable of controlling it and surely to our sustainer we are to return” (Mishkaat)
37. Then one should say the following three times:
Alhamdulillah: - All praise be to Allah
Allaahu Akbar: - Allah is the greatest
Laa ilaaha ilallah: - There is no worthy of worship except Allah
38. Then follow this with dua of repentance:-
Subhaanaka innee dhalamtu nafsee fa’ghfirlee innahu laa yaghfirudhunuba illaa anth
Purity belongs to You. Surely I have wronged myself so forgive me. Indeed none forgives sins besides You. (Mishkaat)
39. When one ascends or attempts to reach any height then one should say: “Allaahu Akbar”:- Allah is the greatest.
40. When descending from any height then one should say: “Subhaanallah”:- Purity belongs to Allah.
41. When one slips or experiences an accident they should say: “Laa ilaaha ilallaahu wallaahu akbar”:- There is no worthy of worship except Allah he is the greatest. (Hisnul Hasin)
42. Always do the Dua's of leaving/entering the house. When leaving the house:
Bismillaahi, tawakkaltu 'alallaahi, wa laa hawla wa laa quwwata ‘illaa billaah.
In the Name of Allah, I have placed my trust in Allah; there is no might and no power except by Allah. (Abu Dawud 4/325, At-Tirmidhi 5/490)
43. When entering one's home then greet the occupants with salaam and recite the following du'aa:
Bismillaahi walajnaa, wa bismillaahi kharajnaa, wa 'alaaRabblnaa tawakkalnaa
In the Name of Allah we enter, in the Name of Allah we leave, and upon our Lord we depend [then say Asalaamu 'Alaikum to those present].
One should mention the Name of Allah upon entering the home and when beginning to eat; and that the devil, hearing this, says: "There is no shelter for us here tonight and no food." (Abu Dawud 4/325. Muslim {Hadith no. 2018)
Greeting the family or occupants of the home when entering or leaving the house is a means of great reward. The person who enters the home with salaam is under the protection of Allah (Abu Dawud) and when one enters and does not remember Allah (By saying salaam) then Shaythaan invites his followers to the home saying “you have accommodation for the night”” by saying salaam to the family that person and their family receives blessings (Abu Dawood) Even if no one is at home then by saying salaam the angels greet one back.
45. On entering a market / shopping centre recite the following:
Laa ilaaha illallaahu wahdahu Laa shareeka lahu, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu yuhyee wa yumeetu wa huwa hayyul Laa yamootu, biyadihil khayr wa huwa alaa kulli shay'in qadeer
There is no deity except Allah, the Only One. He has no partner. To Him belongs all kingdom and to Him belongs all praise. He is the One who gives life and death. And He is Ever-living and no death comes to Him. In His Hand lies all good and He has power over everything.
It is reported in a Hadith that for reciting these words, Allah will record one million good deeds, forgive one million sins, elevate the status a million times and build a house for him in Jannah. (Mishkaat)
Masjid
It is disliked for men to pray at home without any excuse: Abu Hurairah (Ra) reports that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "By Him in whose hand is my soul! I have considered ordering a fire to be kindled and then ask someone to lead the people in Salaah. And then go to the men [who did not attend the prayer] and burn their houses over them." (Bukhari & Muslim)
46. Men should strive to pray every Fard Salaah at the Masjid as the Salaah is rewarded 27 times or more and each step is rewarded. Women get the same reward for praying at home.
Note: During Ramadan these rewards are increased by 70 times or more.
47. For more reward & also to increase blessings in ones home Men should pray Sunnah’s and Nawafil prayers at home. If one knows one will get lazy at home then one should pray the Sunnah’s & Nawafils at the Masjid.
48. Make Wudu at home and then walk to the Masjid by taking smaller steps or going the longest way to the Masjid as one is rewarded for each step:
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Whoever purifies in his house and walks to the mosque to perform obligatory prayer, his steps are counted as one expiates a sin and the other raises his rank" (Muslim)
49. Upon entering the Masjid:
To recite durood upon entering (Ibn Majah, Faydhul Qadeer)
Then recite:
Allaahummnaftah lee abwaaba rahmati
Oh Allah! Open the Doors of Your Mercy for me. (Ibn Majah)
On leaving the Masjid recite:
Allaah-humma In-nee As`aluka Min Fadhlika.
O Allaah, I seek of You Your Grace. (Nas'ai)
50 . Always pray 2 Raka’a Tahiyyatul Masjid on arrival at the Masjid:
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “When one of you enters the Masjid, let him not sit until he prays two Raka’a’s”. (Bukhari and Muslim).
51. Always take care to respect the Adaab (etiquette) of the Masjid)
52. On entering Masjid Always make intention of Nawafil I’thikaaf and one will be rewarded for the duration of the stay at the Masjid even if it's for a short while.
53. Strive to pray every prayer in the front row:
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “If the people knew what (reward) there is in the call (Adhan) and praying in the first row, and there was no other way to settle the matter than drawing lots, then they would draw lots for it”. (Bukhari and Muslim)
54. Care should be taken that the rows are straightened when praying with congregation
Adhan/Iqaamah
55. Upon Hearing the Call to Prayer (Adhaan):
First send blessings and salutations (Salawat) upon the Messenger of Allah (Muslim Vol.1 pg.166)
Then recite the following:
Allahumma Rabbi Haadhi idda’ wathithaama waswalaathil qaa ima aathi Muhammadawaseelatha walfadeelah wab ‘as hoo maqaa mammahmooda nilladhi wa atha [innaka laa thukh liful mee ‘aad]
O Allah, Lord of this perfect call and established prayer, grant Muhammad a place near to You, an excellence and exalted degree, and raise him to the praiseworthy station that You have promised him. (Al-Bukhari 1/152 and the addition between brackets is from Al-Bayhaqi 1/410 with a good (Hasan) chain of narration).
56. Whoever recites this dua will gain the intercession of the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) on the Day of Judgement. (Bukhari)
57. By reciting this dua, the intercession of Prophet Mohammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) becomes Waajib (Compulsory). (Mishkaat)
Replying to Iqaamah:
58. It is Musthahab (Preferrable) to reply to the Iqaamah by repeating the same words similar to that of the Adhaan however in reply to “Qad qaamatis salaah” one should say:
Aqaamahallahu Wa adaamaha
“May Allah establish and perpetuate this Salah” (Abu Dawood)
59. When reading Fard Salaat at home it is preferable to say Iqaamah even if you’re praying on your own.
Note: Dua’s are readily accepted between Azaan and Iqaamah so this precious time should be spent in dua and Dhikr.
Women on menses
60. Women on their menses can still gain the same rewards in Ramadan as men if not more by: Doing excessive Dhikr, making sincere Dua and repentance, listening to Qur'an, reading Islamic books, tafseer, seerah, listening to lectures, pondering and contemplating over the greatness of Allah, Sadaqa and giving in charity, looking after their family,partner,children and relatives, serving their parents, giving dawah, doing charitable work and helping their local communities etc.
Praying Nawafil (voluntary) prayers
What better way of drawing closer to Allah than by praying the voluntary prayers:
Allah says in Hadith Qudsi:
....And My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawafil (voluntary deeds) until I love him, [Bukhari]
During Ramadan every Nawafil prayed is the Reward of praying a Fard Salaah:
The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever draws near to Allaah during it (Ramadaan) with a single characteristic from the characteristics of (voluntary) goodness, he is like whoever performs an obligatory act in other times. And whoever performs an obligatory act during it, he is like whoever performed seventy obligatory acts in other times.” – Sahih Ibn Khuzaymah, no. 1887.
Want the company of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Jannah:
Rabi'ah Ibn Malik al-Aslami reported that the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said: "Ask (anything)." Rabi'ah (Ra) said: "I ask of you to be your companion in paradise." The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Or anything else?" Rabi'ah (Ra) said: "That is it." The Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam) said to him: "Then help me by making many prostrations (i.e., Nawafil prayers)." (Muslim)
A palace in Paradise for those who pray 12 units of voluntary prayers everyday: - 2 Sunnah of Fajr, 4 Sunnah & 2 Sunnah of Dhuhr & 2 Sunnah of Maghrib
Umm Habibah Ramilah bint Abu Sufyan (RA) narrated she heard the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) saying: “A house will be built in Paradise for every Muslim who offers twelve units of Prayers other than the obligatory ones in day & night, to seek pleasure of Allah.” (Muslim)
We should try to make the best of every opportunity we have in our day, in order to do Nawafil (voluntary) prayers for it will help us in the grave and in the hereafter and it will make us closer to Allah and enable us to be in the company of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Jannah.
Food and drink
The Prophet never ate to his fill: The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) never ate to his fill. He only ate if he was hungry. He emphasised that one third of the stomach should be for food and another for water and the other for the stomach itself. (Tirmidhi & Ibn Majah)
61. To spread cloth on the floor to lay food on (Bukhari)
62. To wash hands and gargle before eating (Tirmidhi)
63. To make intention that, “I am eating to gain strength for Allah’s Ibaadah (Worship)”. (Attargheeb)
Note: By making good intentions like the above then eating and drinking becomes a worship
64. To say Bismillah loud (Bukhari, Muslim- Shami, Vol.5)
Note: This is so as to remind others who are also eating to say it as well.
65. To eat with the right hand (Bukhari, Muslim)
66. When taking food and when giving to someone then the right hand should be used. (Ibn Majah)
67. The one who is most pious or senior from those eating should be made to commence eating first. (Muslim- Vol.2 pg. 171)
68. To eat together and not individually (Abu Dawud)
69. The more people eating together then the greater the blessings and reward. (Mishkaat)
70. If only one type of food is in the utensil, eat from the side in front of you. (Bukhari, Muslim)
71. If two or more people are eating together from the same plate then each person should eat that food which is closest to them, it is incorrect to eat that food which is in the middle or in front of others. (Tirmidhi)
72. If a variety of dishes are served then it is permissible to partake in any of the dishes one wishes to have and leave alone that which he does not want to partake in without passing any remarks. (Tirmidhi)
73. If a morsel falls, pick it up, clean it and eat it. (Muslim)
74. Any fallen crumbs or pieces of food should be picked up and eaten and not left for Shaythaan. (Ibn Majah)
75. Do not lean and eat as Rasulallah never leaned on anything whilst eating. (Bukhari, Abu Dawood)
76. Do not find fault with the food. (Bukhari, Muslim)
77. If a big chunk of meat is served then it is permissible to cut it with a knife (Bukhari, Muslim)
78. Whilst eating if a visitor comes then he should be requested to partake in the meals (Muslim)
79. Small pieces of meat should not be cut with a knife but with the teeth as this aid with digestion (Tirmidhi)
80. Steaming food which is too hot should not be eaten until it has cooled down (Ahmad)
81. Do not blow onto food (Tirmidhi)
82. To have vinegar and honey in the house is Sunnah (Tirmidhi)
83. Always be satisfied and content with whatever quantity or quality of food Allah has given us as it is a bounty from Allah (Malik)
84. Remove the shoes while eating. (Mishkaat)
85. When eating, sit either with both knees raised and the posterior on the ground or by raising one knee and keeping the other on the ground. A third posture is to sit with both knees on the ground (as in the position of Qa’dah) and lean forward to eat. (Mirqaat- commentary of Mishkaat)
86. If one can easily eat with three fingers then he should do so and not unnecessarily use the fourth, so the extra fingers should be used only if needed (Attargheeb)
87. To recite the following dua before eating:
Bismilllaahi wa ‘alaa barakathillah
“In the name of Allah and with the blessings of Allah”. (Abu Dawud)
88. If one forgets to read Bismillah before eating then once they remember then they should recite:
Bismillaahi awwalahu wa aakhirahu
In the name of Allah at the beginning and until the end of it (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud)
89. Clean the plate and other eating utensils thoroughly after eating. The utensils will then make dua for one’s forgiveness. (Ibn Majah)
90. When eating together one should stay and accompany the slower eaters but if this is not possible then one can excuse one self after finishing eating. (Ibn Majah)
91. If several people are eating dates and grapes or something similar then they should not take in two’s except for the permission of their companions. (Bukhari)
92. To remove worms from dates, fruits etc before eating it. (Abu Dawud)
93. If a servant has cooked the food then he should be requested to eat with the group or at least separately. (Ibn Majah)
94. To lick the fingers after eating. (Muslim)
95. The middle finger should be licked first followed by the index and finally the thumb, the little finger and ring fingers should be licked. (Tabarani)
96. Recite the following dua after eating:
Alhamdulilahiladhi ath ‘amanaa wasaqaana waja’lanaa minal muslimeen.
All praise is due to Allah who has granted us food and drink and has made us Muslims. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood, Ibn Majah)
97. Wash both hands. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood)
98. Gargle the mouth. (Bukhari)
99. The habit of gargling water together with washing hands after meals is a source of great blessings. (Ibn Majah)
100. Invocation for someone who gives you a drink or offers it to you:
Allaahumma 'at'im man 'at'amanee wasqi man saqaanee.
O Allah feed the one who has fed me and drink to the one who has given me drink. (Muslim 3/126)
102. When dining at someone’s house then the following dua should be made for them:
Allaahumma baarik lahum feemaa razaqthahum waghfirlahum war hamhum
Oh Allah bless them in what You have given them to eat and forgive them and be merciful to them. (Muslim)
103. It is Sunnah to partake of some vinegar: That house in which vinegar is found will not be regarded as empty of gravy. (Ibn Majah)
104. Using Barley is Sunnah: If a person uses only wheat (to make his bread), he should also add a little barley so as to get the Sawaab (reward) of acting on a Sunnah. (Bukhari 7:71:593)
105. To eat meat is Sunnah: It is reported in a Hadith that the most superior food of this world and the hereafter is meat. (Jaamia Sageer - Vol.2, pg. 34)
106. To accept the invitation of one’s fellow Muslim is a Sunnah. (Abu Dawood)
Note: However if (the major portion of) his income is from interest, bribery or any other haraam source, then his invitation should not be accepted.
107. It is Sunnah to give food to the family of the deceased. (Ibn Majah)
108. Never eat with left hand:
Jabir (Ra) Narrated the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Do not eat with your left hand for Shaytaan eats with his left hand,” (Muslim)
109. Never waste food:
Jabir (Ra) Narrated the Prophet commanded us never to waste food, because food that we waste is eaten by Shaytaan. He (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said:“The Shaytaan is present with everyone of you in everything he does; he is even present when he eats food, so if any on of you drops a mouthful, he should remove away anything filthy on it and eat it and not leave it for the devil; and when he finished, he should lick his fingers for he does not know in what portion of his food the blessing ties.” (Muslim)
110. Never overfill your stomach:
Ibn Umar (Ra) Narrated the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “A Believer eats in one intestine, whereas a non-believer eats in seven intestines,” (Muslim)
Note:Therefore it is not for us to eat untill we are completely satiated; rather we should eat so much that the hunger goes but there is still room for more and to breathe properly.
111. Thank Allah abundantly for providing us with food:
We have an excellent opportunity to transform an everyday practice of eating and drinking into an act of worship and a source of blessing for us. Every mouthful of food we take will serve as a reminder of Allah’s great favour upon us and His Mercy and this in turn will cause us to earn favour with Allah, for the Prophet said:
Annas (Ra) narrated that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Indeed Allah is pleased with His servant who, when he eats a morsel, praises Him for it, or drinks a sip and then praises Him for it.” (Muslim)
Sunnah’s of drink
112. To recite Bismillah- “In the name of Allah”- before drinking and Alhamdulillah- All praise be to Allah”- after drinking (Bukhari, Tirmidhi)
113. Drink with the right hand as Shaythaan drinks with the left hand. (Muslim)
114. Sit and drink as it is forbidden to drink whilst standing (Muslim)
115. To stand and drink Zamzam water and water left over after making Wudhu (Tirmidhi)
Note: It is far better to sit whilst drinking water but Zamzam should be drunk standing.
116. Drink in three breathes (Sips) and after each sip take away utensil from mouth. (Muslim, Tirmidhi)
117. Avoid drinking from the side of the utensil which is chipped (Abu Dawud)
118. Do not drink directly from the chipped, the spout of a jug or from any such utensil from which the water gushes out very quickly (causing one to choke) or from such a utensil in which there is a possibility that a snake or scorpion etc. may have crept in. (Bukhari, Muslim)
119. The person who serves others should himself take last. (Tirmidhi)
120. After drinking from the utensil if the water is to be passed then let it be passed from the right who will pass it to his right and the procedure will continue till the end (Bukhari, Muslim)
Note: The same sequence can be applied when passing around Tea or anything else
121. The following dua to be recited after drinking Milk:
Allaahummah baarik lanaa feehi wazid lanaa minhu
Oh Allah grant us abundance in it (The Milk) and increase it for us. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud)
122. After drinking water the following should be recited:
Alhamdu lillaahiladhee saqaana ‘adhban foraathan birahmathihee walam yaj’alhoo milhan ujaajan bidhunu binaa
All praise is due to Allah who gave us fresh, sweet water to drink through his mercy and did not make it salty or bitter due to our sins. (Roohul Ma’ani, pg.149, 27[SUP]th[/SUP] chapter)
Continued