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METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
TOLERANCE IN RELATION TO WOMEN
IN ISLAM:
Women in Islam have their unique status; they are honored and
given many rights. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “The most complete of
all believers in terms of their manners and faith are the best of
them to their wives.” (Ibn Hibban)
He صلى الله عليه وسلم also said: “Be kind to your wives.” (Muslim)
A woman is given a dowry when she gets married. She may
ask for whatever she wants and it is a duty upon the man to give
it to her. Allah, the Exalted, says: “And give the women [upon
marriage] their [bridal] gifts graciously. But if they give up willingly
to you anything of it, then take it in satisfaction and ease.” (4:4)
Even if a woman is divorced, she is given her dowry.
Allah, the Exalted, says: “And if you divorce them before you
have touched them and you have already specified for them
an obligation, then [give] half of what you specified – unless
they forego the right or the one in whose hand is the marriage
contract foregoes it. And to forego it is nearer to righteousness.
And do not forget graciousness between you. Indeed Allah, of
whatever you do, is Seeing.” (2:237)
It is a duty upon the man to take care of all his wife’s
financial needs. It is forbidden for him to be harsh towards her.
Allah, the Exalted, says: “Let the women [who are undergoing a
waiting period] live in the same manner as you live yourselves,
in accordance with your means, and do not harass them in
order to make their lives difficult.” (65:6)
It is the right of a woman to seek the custody of her child
if she so wishes. Allah, the Exalted, says: “And the [divorced]
mothers should nurse their children for two whole years, if they
wish to complete the period of nursing, and during that period
the father of the child shall be responsible for the maintenance
of the mother in a reasonable manner. No soul is charged with
It is a duty upon the
man to take care of
all his wife’s financial
needs.
A woman is not
obligated to spend
of her own money on
household matters,
even if she has her own
source of income.
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EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
more than it can bear. No mother should be made to suffer on
account of her child, and no father should be made to suffer on
account of his child. The same duties devolve upon the father’s
heir [in case of the death of the father]...” (2:233)
A woman is to be given her necessities so that she is
properly maintained. Allah, the Exalted, says:
“Let the man of means spend in accordance with his means, and
let him whose resources are restricted, spend in accordance
with what Allah has given him. Allah does not burden any
person with more than He has given him. Allah will soon bring
about ease after hardship.” (65:7)
A woman is given her fair share of inheritance. Allah, the
Exalted, says:
“Men shall have a share in what parents and relatives leave
behind, and women shall have a share in what parents and
relatives leave behind, whether it be little or much. This is
ordained [by Allah].” (4:7)
When a women is in her menstrual or post-natal period, she
is not required to do certain acts of worship; she is not required
to perform prayers, nor is she required to fast. She is to make up
for fasts missed in the month of Ramadan afterward. According
to the Prophetic Tradition: Mu’adha said, “I asked A’ishah, ‘What
is the reason that a menstruating woman completes the fasts
(that she abandons during her monthly course), but she does
not complete the prayers?’ She said, ‘We passed through this
(period of menstruation), and we were ordered to complete the
fasts, but were not ordered to complete the prayers.’”
Also, a woman is not required to perform the farewell circling
of Hajj during her menstrual period. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said:
“The people were ordered to perform the circumambulation of
the Ka’ba as the last rite before leaving (Mecca), except the
menstruating women who were excused.” (Bukhari)
It is not compulsory upon a woman to fight in war. A’ishah reports:
“I said, ‘O Messenger of Allah! We consider Jihad as the best deed.
It is the right of a
woman to seek the
custody of her child if
she so wishes.
When a woman is in
her menstrual or postnatal
period, she is not
required to do certain
acts of worship.
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METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
Should we not then go for Jihad?’ The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said,
‘The best Jihad for women is the accepted Hajj.’” (Bukhari)
A woman is not obligated to spend of her own money on
household matters, even if she has her own source of income.
This provision is the duty of the husband.
TOLERANCE OF ISLAM IN RELATION TO
FINANCIAL MATTERS:
Finances are the lifeline of a community and very commonly
an area from which a lot of contention between people arise.
One of the aspects of the tolerance of Islam in this respect is
as follows:
One is to be kind with his fellow brother when buying and
selling. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Allah will have mercy on one who,
when buying or selling, is kind and generous.” (Baihaqi)
When one is unable to repay a loan, Allah instructs us to be
understanding of the person’s condition. He, the Exalted, says:
“And if someone is in hardship, then [let there be] postponement
until [a time of] ease. But if you give [from your right as] charity,
then it is better for you, if you only knew.” (2:280) The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم
said: “Whoever gives the one upon whom a debt is due time to
pay it off, he would receive with each day that passes a great
reward.” (Ibn Majah)
Islam asks that a person be generous towards others. The
Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “There was a person from a previous nation
who didn’t do any good except that he would send his servants
to reclaim loans given to people in the community. When one
of them was unable to repay he would tell them to go easy on
that individual. Allah then forgave that person on account of his
generosity.” (Muslim)
Islam encourages one to reconsider his purchase if the
seller feels sorrowful for selling what he has sold. The Prophet
صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Whoever returns what he bought to a seller when the
When one is unable
to repay a loan, Allah
instructs us to be
understanding of the
person’s condition.
Islam encourages
one to reconsider his
purchase if the seller
feels sorrowful for
selling what he has
sold.
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EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
seller feels sorrowful for selling what he sold, Allah will cover
from him his faults on the Day of Resurrection.” (Ibn Hibban)
If a sale is being conducted, the transaction does not become
binding until those involved in the sale get up to leave the session
in which the buying/selling was discussed. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said:
“The buyer and seller have the right to revoke the sale as long as
they do not separate from each other. If they both have spoken
the truth, they would be blessed in that sale, and if they have
hidden faults there will be no blessing in the sale.” (Bukhari)
A sign of the tolerance of Islam is its beautiful system of
inheritance. Allah, the Exalted, says:
“Allah instructs you concerning your children: for the male,
what is equal to the share of two females. But if there are [only]
daughters, two or more, for them is two thirds of one’s estate.
And if there is only one, for her is half. And for one’s parents,
to each one of them is a sixth of his estate if he left children.
But if he had no children and the parents [alone] inherit from
him, then for his mother is one third. And if he had brothers [or
sisters], for his mother is a sixth, after any bequest he [may
have] made or debt. Your parents or your children – you know
not which of them are nearest to you in benefit. [These shares
are] an obligation [imposed] by Allah. Indeed, Allah is ever
Knowing and Wise.” (4:11)
A sign of the beauty of Islam is that one is to give a gift to
those who are present when money is being divided. Allah, the
Exalted, says:
“And when [other] relatives and orphans and the needy
are present at the [time of] division, then provide for them
[something] out of the estate and speak to them words of
appropriate kindness.” (4:8)
A person may bequeath a certain amount of his wealth after
his death. Aamir bin Sa’d said that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم would visit
him while he was sick in Makkah. I told him, “O Messenger of
Allah, I want to bequeath my entire estate for the sake of Allah.”
A sign of the beauty
of Islam is that one is
to give a gift to those
who are present when
money is being divided.
A person may bequeath
a certain amount of his
wealth after his death.
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METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
The Prophet said, “No.” Aamir then said, “Then a half,” and the
Prophet once again said, “No.” He then said a third, and the
Prophet agreed, but added, “A third it is, but a third is still too
much. It is better that you leave your heirs rich so that they
would not ask people to support them.” (Bukhari)
TOLERANCE OF ISLAM IN PUNISHMENT:
Islam has legalized a number of legal penalties which, when
upheld, guarantee the safety and security of a society. Lives
would be saved, and individual honor would be protected. All
crimes, regardless of their degree, would decrease drastically
or cease completely. Allah, the Exalted, says: “O you who
have believed, prescribed for you is legal retribution for those
murdered.” (2:178)
Allah also says:
“But whoever overlooks from his brother anything, then there
should be a suitable follow-up and payment to him with good
conduct.” (2:178)
Allah says about theft:
“[As for] the thief, the male and the female, amputate their
hand in recompense for what they committed as a deterrent
[punishment] from Allah. And Allah is Exalted in Might and
Wise.” (5:38)
Once a person’s hand is cut off, it would discourage him and
others to take the property of others.
The punishment of one who fornicates is also mentioned in the
Quran:
“The [unmarried] woman or [unmarried] man found guilty of
sexual intercourse - lash each one of them with a hundred
lashes, and do not be taken by pity for them in the religion of
Allah, if you should believe in Allah and the Last Day. And let a
group of the believers witness their punishment.” (24:2)
Islam has legalized
a number of legal
penalties which, when
upheld, guarantee the
safety and security of a
society.
Once a person’s hand
is cut off, it would
discourage him and
others to take the
property of others.
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EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
This would serve to prevent the breaking apart of families, and
having children left without their parents.
If someone speaks ill of someone, such as accusing them
unlawfully of being promiscuous, there is also a due punishment.
Allah, the Exalted, says: “And those who accuse chaste women
and then do not produce four witnesses – lash them with eighty
lashes and do not accept from them testimony ever after. And
those are the defiantly disobedient.” (24:4)
The Shari’ah affirms a general guideline regarding punishment.
Allah, the Exalted, says: “And the retribution for an evil act is an
evil one like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation
– his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like
wrongdoers.” (42:40)
Allah also says: “And if you punish [an enemy, O believers],
punish with an equivalent of that with which you were harmed. But
if you are patient - it is better for those who are patient.” (16:126)
THESE PUNISHMENTS HAVE A FEW
CONDITIONS:
The tolerance of Islam dictates that punishments related to
individual rights are not to be implemented unless the person
who is harmed wants it to be implemented. Otherwise a person
who is affected can pull away from this and forgive the person.
Allah, the Exalted, says: “And the retribution for an evil act is an
evil one like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation
– his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like
wrongdoers.” (42:40)
Whatever relates to God’s rights would not be punished as
long as a person does not openly announce that he is committing
the sin. In addition, if it has not reached the authorities, the sin
would not be punished. One would repent between himself
and God. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “All the sins of my followers will
be forgiven except those of the Mujahirin (those who commit
The tolerance of
Islam dictates that
punishments related
to individual rights are
not to be implemented
unless the person who
is harmed wants it to be
implemented.
Whatever relates to
God’s rights would
be not punished as
long as a person
does not openly
announce that he is
committing the sin.
53
METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
a sin openly or disclose their sins to the people). An example
of such disclosure is that a person commits a sin at night and
though Allah screens it from the public, then he comes in the
morning, and says, ‘O so-and-so, I did such-and-such (evil)
deed yesterday,’ though he spent his night screened by his Lord
(none knowing about his sin) and in the morning he removes
Allah’s screen from himself.” (Bukhari)
The implementations of these rules serve noble ends, namely
the protection of human rights and the safety of society.
If a person knows that he will be killed if he kills, or will have
has hand cut off if he steals, it is certain that he will be deterred
from sinning. Allah says: “And there is for you in legal retribution
[saving of] life, O you [people] of understanding, that you may
become righteous.” (2:179)
It may seem to some that the punishments in Islam are very
severe. In reality, they are fitting to each crime and would
prevent corruption from spreading in society. Imprisonment, for
example, has not proven itself a worthy form of punishment.
Rather than deterring one from crime, at times it increases
one’s willingness to commit crime.
TOLERANCE IN ISLAM TOWARDS
PRISONERS OF WAR:
It isn’t unexpected to have people differ amongst themselves in
matters of religion, economy and personal interests. Allah says:
“And if God had not enabled people to defend themselves against
one another, corruption would surely overwhelm the earth, but
God is limitless in His bounty unto all the worlds.” (2:251)
Wars in Islam are fought in an honorable way. Allah says: “And
do not be like those who came forth from their homes insolently
and to be seen by people and avert [them] from the way of God.
And God is encompassing of what they do.” (8:47)
Wars are waged in Islam to protect the rights of the oppressed.
Wars in Islam are fought
in an honorable way.
They are waged in Islam
to protect the rights of
the oppressed.
It may seem to some
that the punishments in
Islam are very severe. In
reality, they are fitting to
each crime and would
prevent corruption from
spreading in society.
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EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
Allah says: “And what is [the matter] with you that you fight
not in the cause of Allah and [for] the oppressed among men,
women, and children who say, ‘Our Lord, take us out of this
city of oppressive people and appoint for us from Yourself a
protector and appoint for us from Yourself a helper?’” (4:75)
TOLERANCE IN ISLAM REGARDING WARFARE:
Islam is not a religion of terrorism, transgression or
oppression. We are forbidden by God to be oppressive. Allah
says: “Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you, but do not
transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.” (2:190)
Allah orders us to revert to peaceful talks when the enemy
requests that option. Allah says: “And if they incline to peace,
then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah. Indeed, it is He who
is the Hearing, the Knowing.” (8:61)
We are forbidden to fight those who do not fight us. God, the
Exalted, says: “Except for those who take refuge with a people
between yourselves and whom is a treaty or those who come
to you, their hearts strained at [the prospect of] fighting you or
fighting their own people. And if Allah had willed, He could have
given them power over you, and they would have fought you.
So if they remove themselves from you and do not fight you and
offer you peace, then Allah has not made for you a cause [for
fighting] against them.” (4:90)
There are many conditions that go hand-in-hand with
warfare, to prevent any inhumane action. No person that
has not taken part in the warfare is to be killed. As for the
elderly, children, women, sickly, those who have dedicated
their lives to worship, and those who did not play a role in
the warfare; they are to be left unharmed and spared. These
are the commands of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم upon
the conquest of Makkah, instructed that those who entered
their homes or the home of Abu Sufyan, or tossed aside their
weapons would be guaranteed safety.
Islam is not a religion of
terrorism, transgression
or oppression. We are
forbidden by God to be
oppressive.
Allah orders us to revert
to peaceful talks when
the enemy requests that
option.
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METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
Abu Bakr later said to the commanders of his troops: “Do not
become treacherous, do not imprison the innocent, do not
mutilate, do not kill any children, do not kill any elderly or women,
do not destroy date-palms, do not cut down trees that bear fruit, do
not kill sheep, cows or camels, except if you intend to eat them.”
Human rights are protected in times of war. It is unlawful in
Islam for one to torture prisoners of war. They must be treated
well. Allah says: “And they give food, in spite of love for it,
to the needy, the orphan, and the captive. [Saying], ‘We feed
you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you
reward or gratitude.’” (76:8-9)
Muslims were quick to uphold these commands. Abu Aziz bin
Umair said: “I was among the captives during the battle of
Badr, and the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said: ‘Treat the prisoners
well.’ When it was lunch or dinner time, they would give the
prisoners bread and good food, while they themselves would
simply eat dates.” (Mu’jam as-Sagheer)
It is also reflective of Islam’s tolerance that prisoners of
warfare can be freed without ransom. Allah says: “But thereafter
[set them free], either by an act of grace or against ransom,
so that the burden of war may be lifted - thus [shall it be]. And
[know that] had God so willed, He could indeed punish them
Himself, but [He wills you to struggle] so as to test you [all] by
means of one another. And as for those who are slain in God’s
cause, never will He let their deeds go to waste.” (47:4)
Muslim governments are instructed to treat their non-
Muslim subjects in the best manner. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم instructed
his companions, when they went to Egypt, “When you conquer
Egypt, be kind to the Coptic Christians.” (Dhahabi)
If we are to look at the letter that was drafted by Umar to the
people of Jerusalem when it was conquered by the Muslims, we
will find that it said: “I give the people of Jerusalem my word that
their churches and crosses will be protected and not harmed.
None of them shall be forced into Islam.”
It is unlawful in Islam for
one to torture prisoners
of war. They must be
treated well.
It is also reflective of
Islam’s tolerance that
prisoners of warfare
can be freed without
ransom.
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EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
Umar could have put any condition he desired upon the people
of Jerusalem, but instead of oppressing them, he acted in a way
that was representative of the teachings of tolerance in Islam,
and was kind and considerate of their basic human rights.
THE TOLERANCE OF ISLAM IN RELATION TO
FORGIVENESS OF SINS:
The children of Adam (humanity) often commit sin throughout
their lives. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “All children of Adam commit
sins, and the best of the sinners are those who repent.” (Tirmidhi)
Satan has promised to mislead the children of Adam. Allah
says in the Quran: “[Iblîs (Satan)] said: ‘See this one whom
You have honored above me, if You keep me alive to the Day
of Resurrection, I will surely seize and mislead his offspring
(by sending them astray), all but a few!’ (Allah) said, ‘Go,
and whosoever of them follows you, surely Hell will be the
recompense of you (all) - an ample recompense.’” (17:62-3)
Allah will forgive one’s sins no matter how many times one
commits it. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “By the one in whose hands
is my life, if you were not to sin, Allah would have replaced you
with a people who sin, and seek forgiveness and Allah would
forgive them.” (Muslim)
Allah has opened the gate of forgiveness for the Muslims.
He says: “But whoever repents after his wrongdoing and
reforms, indeed, Allah will turn to him in forgiveness. Indeed,
Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (5:39)
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Indeed Allah puts out His hand to forgive
those who commit sins, so that He will forgive them, until the
sun rises from the West.” (Tirmidhi)
Allah says: “The repentance accepted by Allah is only for those
who do wrong in ignorance [or carelessness] and then repent
soon after. It is those to whom Allah will turn in forgiveness, and
Allah is ever Knowing and Wise. But repentance is not [accepted]
Allah will forgive
one’s sins no matter
how many times one
commits it.
When one repents
to God, there is no
intermediary between
him and God.
57
METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
of those who [continue to] do evil deeds up until, when death
comes to one of them, he says, ‘Indeed, I have repented now,’ or
of those who die while they are disbelievers. For them We have
prepared a painful punishment.” (4:17-18)
When one repents to God, there is no intermediary between
him and God. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “A person’s repentance will
be accepted as long as the death rattle is not heard from him.”
(Ibn Majah) In another hadeeth, it states: “Whoever repents
before the sun rises from the west, Allah will forgive him.”
(Tirmidhi) Allah says: “And whoever does a wrong or wrongs
himself, but then seeks forgiveness of Allah, will find Allah
Forgiving and Merciful. And whoever commits a sin only earns it
against himself. And Allah is ever Knowing and Wise.” (4:110-111)
Those who repent sincerely for their sins would have their
sins transformed into good deeds by the will of Allah. Allah, the
Exalted, says: “Except for those who repent, believe, and do
righteous work. For them, Allah will replace their evil deeds with
good. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful.” (25:70)
Allah addresses us to repent. He, the Exalted, says: “Say, ‘O My
servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning],
do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all
sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.’” (39:53)
Allah rewards a person on account of their good intention. If
a person intends to do a good deed, and does not do it, he will
receive one reward from Allah on account of his good intention.
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Allah says, ‘If My slave intends to do a
bad deed then (O Angels) do not write it unless he does it. If he
does it, then write it as it is, but if he refrains from doing it for
My Sake, then write it as a good deed (in his account). [On the
other hand], if he intends to do a good deed, but does not do it,
then write a good deed (in his account), and if he does it, then
write it for him (in his account) as ten good deeds up to sevenhundred
times.’” (Muslim)
Those who repent
sincerely for their sins
would have their sins
transformed into good
deeds by the will of
Allah.
Allah rewards a person
on account of their
good intention. If a
person intends to do a
good deed, and does
not do it, he will receive
one reward from Allah
on account of his good
intention.
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EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
When one sins, their sins will not be a barrier between
them and the mercy of God. In the Prophetic Tradition, it states:
“There will remain one man who will be facing the (Hell) Fire
and he will say, ‘O God! The heat of Hell has burnt me; please
turn my face away from the Fire.’ He will keep on invoking Allah
till Allah says, ‘Perhaps, if I give you what you want, you will ask
for another thing?’ The man will say, ‘No, by Your Power, I will
not ask You for anything else!’
Then Allah will turn his face away from the Fire. The man will say
after that, ‘O Lord, bring me near the gate of Jannah (Heavenly
Garden).’ Allah will say (to him), ‘Didn’t you promise not to ask
for anything else? O son of Adam! How treacherous you are!’
The man will keep on invoking Allah till Allah will say, ‘But if I
give you that, will you ask for anything else?’ The man will say,
‘No, by Your Power. I will not ask for anything else.’ He will give
Allah his covenant and promise not to ask for anything else
after that. So Allah will bring him near to the gate of Jannah,
and when he sees what is in it, he will remain silent as long as
Allah wills, and then he will say, ‘O Allah! Let me enter Jannah.’
Allah will say, ‘Didn’t you promise that you would not ask Me
for anything other than that? O son of Adam! How treacherous
you are!’ On that, the man will say, ‘O Allah! Do not make me
the most wretched of Your creation!’ and will keep on invoking
Allah till Allah will smile. And when Allah will smile, He would
then allow him to enter into Jannah. And when he will enter, he
will be addressed, ‘Wish for what you want!’ He will wish till all
his wishes will be fulfilled, then Allah will say, ‘You will be given
double what you requested.’” Abu Huraira added: “That man will
be the last of the people of Jannah to enter (Jannah).” (Bukhari)
Allah, the Exalted, says: “And if Allah were to impose blame on
the people for what they have earned, He would not leave upon
the earth any creature. But He defers them for a specified term.
And when their time comes, then indeed Allah has ever been,
of His servants, Seeing.” (35:45)
When one does a good
deed, such as prayers,
they will receive their
reward from Allah
and they will also be
forgiven of their sins.
When a person
experiences sadness or
even a sickness, their
patience with these
difficulties would purify
them of their sins.
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METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
THE TOLERANCE OF ISLAM IN
RELATION TO SINS:
When one does a good deed, such as prayers, they will
receive their reward from Allah and they will also be forgiven of
their sins. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “The five prayers and the Friday
prayers till the next Friday prayers are means to purify one from
their sins.” (Haithami)
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Umrah to Hajj will purify one from
sins and protect one from poverty.” (Muslim)
Allah, the Exalted, says: “If you avoid the major sins which
you are forbidden, We will remove from you your lesser sins
and admit you to a noble entrance [into Jannah].” (4:31)
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “When two Muslims meet each other
and shake their hands, their sins will fall like leaves that fall off
of a tree.” (al-Muʻjam al-Awsaṭ)
When a person experiences sadness or even a sickness,
their patience with these difficulties would purify them of their
sins. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Nothing harms a believer except
that it would efface his sins.” (Bukhari)
Purification is also a means to rid one from sins. The Prophet
صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Shall I not guide you to something that will purify you
from your sins and increase your good deeds? They said, ‘Yes
O Messenger of Allah!’ He said: ‘Performing ablution when it is
difficult, taking many steps to the mosque, and waiting for one
prayer after another, for that is like guarding the frontier.’” (Muslim)
Smaller deeds have great rewards and would efface sin
as well. Abu Hurairah said: “The poor amongst the emigrants
came to the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم and said, ‘The possessors
of great wealth have obtained the highest ranks and the lasting
bliss.’ The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, ‘How is that?’ They replied, ‘They
pray as we pray, and they observe fast as we observe fast,
and they give charity, but we do not have enough money to
Smaller deeds have
great rewards and
would efface sin as
well.
The Prophet
mentioned that doing
many good deeds
will also efface sin.
60
EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
give charity, and they set slaves free, but we also cannot afford
to set slaves free.’ Upon this, the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said,
‘Shall I not teach you something by which you will catch up with
those who have preceded you, and get ahead of those who
come after you? Only those who do as you do will excel beyond
you.’ They said, ‘Yes, Messenger of Allah!’ He (the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم
said, ‘Praise Allah (say Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, and Allahu
Akbar) 33 times each after every prayer(6).’”
Abu Salih said: “The poor amongst the emigrants returned to the
Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم saying: ‘Our brethren, the possessors of
property, have heard about what we have done and they did the
same.’ So the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said, ‘This is Allah’s Grace
which He gives to whom He wishes.’” (Bukhari)
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم mentioned that doing many good deeds
will also efface sin. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Fear Allah wherever
you are, and follow up a good deed with another good deed and
treat people with good manners.” (Tirmidhi)
A person came to the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم after having committed a
sin, and said: “O Messenger of Allah, purify me from my sin! The
Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said to him, “Have you performed wudhu?” He said,
“Yes.” He then asked, “Did you pray with us?” He said, “Yes.” He
then said, “Go, for indeed, Allah has forgiven you.” (Bukhari)
TOLERANCE OF ISLAM AND THE CONTINUITY
OF GOOD DEEDS:
Allah rewards a believer for deeds he guides others to
uphold and do. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Whoever calls others to
guidance, he would receive a reward equal to those who follow
it and those who follow will not have a less reward. Whoever
calls others to evil, they will all be punished and the punishment
would not be lessened upon any of them.” (Muslim)
(6) Subhanallah: Far removed is Allah from every imperfection. Alhamdulilah:
All praise is due to Allah. Allah Akbar: Allah is Greater..
Allah rewards a
believer for deeds
he guides others to
uphold and do.
When a person
spreads beneficial
knowledge in his
community, there
would be a great
reward from Allah for
this deed.
61
METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
When a person spreads beneficial knowledge in his community,
there would be a great reward from Allah for this deed. The
Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “When a person dies, his deeds would cease to
continue except from three sources: a continuous charity, beneficial
knowledge and a pious son who supplicates for him.” (Muslim)
TOLERANCE OF ISLAM AND ONE’S DESIRES:
When one relieves their desires in the proper way, within
marriage, they would receive reward for this as well. The Prophet
صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “… And ordering with the good is a greatly rewarded
deed, and forbidding evil is a rewarded deed, and when you
approach your wife, desiring her, you will also receive a reward.’
The Companions said: ‘O Messenger of Allah would one of
us approach his wife, desiring her and receive a reward?’ The
Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, ‘Do you not see if he relieves his desire in an
unlawful manner, that he will be punished? Likewise if he relieves
this desire in a lawful manner, he will be rewarded.’” (Muslim)
One of the beautiful things about Islam is that normal, average,
day-to-day activities transform into acts of worship if done in
accordance with the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah, and in
remembrance of Allah and His Commands. Eating, drinking, and
exercising, when done with the intention of preparing oneself to
do that which is ordained by God, would be greatly rewarded. The
Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Whoever spends his wealth in order to maintain
his family, he would receive a reward for that.” (Bukhari)
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Every Muslim has to give in charity.’ The
people asked, ‘O Prophet of Allah! If someone has nothing to
give, what will he do?’ He replied, ‘He should work with his
hands and benefit himself and also give in charity (from what he
earns).’ The people further asked, ‘If he cannot find even that?’
He replied, ‘He should help the needy who appeal for help.’
Then the people asked, ‘If he cannot do that?’ He replied, ‘Then
he should perform good deeds and keep away from evil deeds
and this will be regarded as charity from him.’” (Bukhari)
When one relieves their
desires in the proper
way, within marriage,
they would receive
reward for this.
One of the beautiful
things about Islam is
that normal, average,
day-to-day activities
transform into acts of
worship.
62
EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
TOLERANCE OF ISLAM IN TRAINING:
The method that is used in training and educating others is a
method full of wisdom, ease and tolerance. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said:
“You have been sent to make things easy (for the people), and
you have not been sent to make things difficult for them.” (Bukhari)
Among the signs of the tolerance of Islam is that the Prophet
صلى الله عليه وسلم was very kind when people asked him for anything, even if it
was the most unexpected of requests. A young man once came
to the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم and asked him: “O Prophet of Allah, allow me
to fornicate.” The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Do you wish this for your
mother?” He said, “Of course not!” “Likewise, people will not want
this for their own mothers.” He said to him, “Do you wish it for your
daughter?” He said, “Of course not!” He said, “The same goes
for other people’s daughters. They would not want this!” He said,
“Do you wish it for your sisters?” He said, “Of course not!” He
said, “Likewise, people would not this for their sisters.” He asked
him, “Would you like this for your aunt?” He said, “Of course not!”
He said, “Likewise, people would not like this for their aunts.” The
Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم then placed his honorable hand on the young man’s
chest and prayed for him, saying: “O Allah forgive him his sin and
purify his heart and make him chaste.” (Haithami)
Anas b. Malik reported: “While we were in the Mosque
with Allah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم, a desert Arab came in and began
to urinate in the Mosque. The Companions of the Messenger
صلى الله عليه وسلم said: ‘Stop, stop!’ The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said, ‘Don’t
interrupt him. Leave him alone.’ They left him alone, and when
he finished urinating, Allah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم called him and said,
‘These mosques are not places meant for urine and filth, but are
only for the remembrance of Allah, prayer, and the recitation of
the Qur’an.’ [The narrator] said that [the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم] then gave
orders to one of the people who brought a bucket of water and
poured it over the area where the man had urinated.” (Bukhari)
The method that is
used in training and
educating others is a
method full of wisdom,
ease and tolerance.
Among the signs of the
tolerance of Islam is
that the Prophet was
very kind when people
asked him for anything,
even if it was the most
unexpected of requests.
63
METHODOLOGY OF TOLERANCE
CONCLUSION:
As you read through this book, you will see the evident traits of
tolerance and ease in all the teachings of Islam. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم
said: “Do not belittle any aspect of goodness, even if you are to
smile in the face of your brother.” (Muslim)
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم also said: “The most beloved of people to Allah
are those who can benefit others the most. The most beloved
of deeds to Allah is to bring happiness to another Muslim, or to
help him in a dire situation, or to help him pay off his debt or
to suffice him with food. To help out someone in need is more
beloved to me than to seclude myself for an entire month in my
Mosque in Madinah for the sake of worship. Whoever is able to
control their anger, Allah will safeguard their honor, whoever is
able to control his emotions when he can inflict damage upon
the one who is in front of him, Allah will fill his heart with hope
on the Day of Resurrection.” (Haithami)
After having read all of these beautiful statements and witnessing
the gentleness upon which Islam was founded, I genuinely hope
that you will not hold the actions of a small minority of ignorant
Muslims against Islam. And lastly, it is hoped that this book will
be an important stepping stone in your search for the truth.
The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said:
“The most beloved
of people to Allah are
those who can benefit
others the most.”
An account of the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace
be upon him). The book introduces us to the Prophet’s
noble character, his humble life and his conduct with
his family at home, his companions and all people in
society. It tells us how he strove to fulfil the task God
assigned to him and contemplates how he dealt with
his enemies, the exceptional magnanimity he showed
to all and his simple, but highly effective, method of
advocating his message.
Islam is the Religion of Peace, shows with perfect
clarity that Islam is the religion of peace and that the
spread of Islam means the spread of peace throughout
the world. Muslims must always be true to their
promises and covenants and treat others with justice
and compassion.
This book tells the history of Bilal ibn Rabah,
a former slave who became a companion of the
Prophet. The book expounds Islam’s attitude to racial
discrimination, highlighting significant events that
show the Prophet took care of many of those who
were persecuted, protected them and gave them their
rightful status in the Muslim community.
This book explains how Islam is a code of living that
covers all aspects of life. It comprises a set of acts
of worship which play important roles in placing
morality on a solid foundation and strengthening
good qualities in people so that they are keen to
follow the right path. The book cites many examples
and speaks about the importance Islam attaches to
knowledge. It mentions a number of recent scientific
discoveries that the Qur’an has referred to 14
centuries ago.
This book explains that Islam admits no rigidity and
making things easy is a general feature of all aspects
of the Islamic faith. It is a religion God revealed that
can be implemented by people with different failings,
feelings and abilities. Islamic law takes all this into
account and addresses human nature and appeals
to it. God says: “He has laid no hardship on you in
anything that pertains to religion.” (78 :22)
The Path to Happiness explains that the way of life
Islam provides for its followers is divine and intended
to ensure that people enjoy real happiness in this
present life and in the life to come. Islam establishes
the concept of true and everlasting happiness, which
makes Muslims aspire to the sublime through
obedience of God and earning His pleasure.
The Message of Islam begins by reminding the reader
that Islam, its worship, the rules governing people’s
transactions and all its teachings have always
remained the same as they were taught by Prophet
Muhammad (peace be upon him). No change or
alteration has been introduced into the religion,
though some Muslims have changed. The book
discusses and sheds light on a number of rights to
which Islam attaches great importance.
Human rights in Islam are outlined in the Qur’an
and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace
be upon him). They aim to make man lead a life of
compassion and dignity, so that he acquires all good
qualities and deals with others in the best manner.
The book clarifies the misconceptions that are often
expressed regarding the different aspects of freedom
and responds to criticism in a calm and objective way.
This book discusses the status of women prior
to Islam and how women were ill-treated and
humiliated in many cultures. It explains how Islam
put an end to all this injustice, established women’s
rights and gave women their rightful status.
THE MESSENGER OF GOD MUHAMMAD
ISLAM IS THE RELIGION OF PEACE
BILAL THE ABYSSINIAN
THE KEY TO UNDERSTANDING ISLAM
EASE AND TOLERANCE IN ISLAM
THE PATH TO HAPPINESS
MESSAGE OF ISLAM
HUMAN RIGHTS IN ISLAM
WOMEN IN ISLAM
This book highlights the great importance Islam
attaches to love. It shows that the love of God is the
best and the most noble love. When it is rooted in
a person’s heart, it sets that person’s behaviour on
the right footing, elevates his emotions and feelings
and removes selfishness. A person who truly loves
God extends feelings of love and compassion to all
creatures.
Glad Tidings explains the nature of Islam and
clarifies the error of people who rely for information
on suspect sources. The book highlights the main
features of Islam and tells everyone who embraces
Islam that God erases all their past sins and errors.
As the Prophet makes clear: “Islam wipes away all
past sins.”
Hisn Al-Mu’min speaks of the causes of reversals
and misfortunes that people encounter. It highlights
how one can ensure the protection and preservation
of God’s favours and blessings, as well as preventing
harm and reducing the effects of personal tragedies
and calamities. The book teaches the ways and means
to fortify oneself against the effect of such tragedies,
the most important being remembrance of God and
glorifying Him at all times. This book explains the
best forms of such remembrance and glorification.
This book discusses the Islamic approach to sex and
how to satisfy the sexual desire in the proper and
beneficial way. The proper way to satisfy sexual
desire is within marriage and according to Islam,
marriage is a necessity for the individual to achieve
personal fulfilment. For society, marriage is the way
to progress, development and stability.
This book explains for non-Muslim readers how to
embrace Islam and shows that this does not require
much effort. To new Muslims, the book explains the
essential elements of Islam and outlines the character
of Prophet Muhammad, his qualities and the message
he delivered to mankind. It goes on to discuss the
various acts of worship Muslims are required to offer,
as well as their purposes and significance.
Questions of the creation, existence and progress
of the universe have been raised by communities
throughout the ages. Yet from its earliest days, Islam
addressed these questions in a most direct and clear
way. This book explains that the ultimate objective of
creation is for all creatures to submit themselves to
God and worship Him alone. All aspects of life in the
universe inevitably end in death then will be brought
back to life on the Day of Resurrection when they
receive due recompense for their actions.
After first discussing people’s need to receive the
divine message through prophets, this book relates
the story of Jesus, son of Mary (peace be upon him).
It starts well before his birth, then goes on to discuss
his message and the opposition he had to endure. The
book also discusses the Qur’anic account of Jesus,
which makes clear that he enjoys a very high position
with God Almighty.
Under Islam, the concept of purification is not limited
to personal and physical purity; it includes purifying
oneself of sin and all disobedience of God. This book
discusses the detailed rules of physical purification,
including ablution, grand ablution, the removal of
impurity, dry ablution, etc.
This book defines and explains the various types
of deviation from the essence of Islam and its true
teachings. It reveals the negative consequences
of deviation on Muslims and their life and how
deviation is bound to give non-Muslims a distorted
view of Islam. Finally, the book describes the role
of Muslims in discarding all deviation, according to
their abilities.
ROMANCE IN ISLAM
GLAD TIDINGS
HISN Al-MU’MIN
ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE ON SEX
MY FIRST STEPS IN ISLAM
THE BEGINNING AND THE END
JESUS IN THE QURAN
THE PURITY
EVERY RELIGIOUS INNOVATION
This book highlights the great importance Islam
attaches to love. It shows that the love of God is the
best and the most noble love. When it is rooted in
a person’s heart, it sets that person’s behaviour on
the right footing, elevates his emotions and feelings
and removes selfishness. A person who truly loves
God extends feelings of love and compassion to all
creatures.
Glad Tidings explains the nature of Islam and
clarifies the error of people who rely for information
on suspect sources. The book highlights the main
features of Islam and tells everyone who embraces
Islam that God erases all their past sins and errors.
As the Prophet makes clear: “Islam wipes away all
past sins.”
Hisn Al-Mu’min speaks of the causes of reversals
and misfortunes that people encounter. It highlights
how one can ensure the protection and preservation
of God’s favours and blessings, as well as preventing
harm and reducing the effects of personal tragedies
and calamities. The book teaches the ways and means
to fortify oneself against the effect of such tragedies,
the most important being remembrance of God and
glorifying Him at all times. This book explains the
best forms of such remembrance and glorification.
This book discusses the Islamic approach to sex and
how to satisfy the sexual desire in the proper and
beneficial way. The proper way to satisfy sexual
desire is within marriage and according to Islam,
marriage is a necessity for the individual to achieve
personal fulfilment. For society, marriage is the way
to progress, development and stability.
This book explains for non-Muslim readers how to
embrace Islam and shows that this does not require
much effort. To new Muslims, the book explains the
essential elements of Islam and outlines the character
of Prophet Muhammad, his qualities and the message
he delivered to mankind. It goes on to discuss the
various acts of worship Muslims are required to offer,
as well as their purposes and significance.
Questions of the creation, existence and progress
of the universe have been raised by communities
throughout the ages. Yet from its earliest days, Islam
addressed these questions in a most direct and clear
way. This book explains that the ultimate objective of
creation is for all creatures to submit themselves to
God and worship Him alone. All aspects of life in the
universe inevitably end in death then will be brought
back to life on the Day of Resurrection when they
receive due recompense for their actions.
After first discussing people’s need to receive the
divine message through prophets, this book relates
the story of Jesus, son of Mary (peace be upon him).
It starts well before his birth, then goes on to discuss
his message and the opposition he had to endure. The
book also discusses the Qur’anic account of Jesus,
which makes clear that he enjoys a very high position
with God Almighty.
Under Islam, the concept of purification is not limited
to personal and physical purity; it includes purifying
oneself of sin and all disobedience of God. This book
discusses the detailed rules of physical purification,
including ablution, grand ablution, the removal of
impurity, dry ablution, etc.
This book defines and explains the various types
of deviation from the essence of Islam and its true
teachings. It reveals the negative consequences
of deviation on Muslims and their life and how
deviation is bound to give non-Muslims a distorted
view of Islam. Finally, the book describes the role
of Muslims in discarding all deviation, according to
their abilities.
