Question 1

What is the reward for patience in hardship?

Accepted Answer

Ibn al-Qayyim explained that sabr is half of iman. Allah promised the patient: "Indeed the patient will be given their reward without account" (al-Zumar 39:10), three things in succession (salawat, mercy, and guidance — al-Baqarah 2:157), and His company: "Indeed Allah is with the patient" (al-Baqarah 2:153). Patience has three categories: patience upon obedience, patience away from disobedience, and patience with what is decreed — the highest being the third.

Question 2

What are the major sins in Islam?

Accepted Answer

Ibn Taymiyyah defined a major sin (kabirah) as any sin for which a specific punishment is prescribed in this world (hadd), or a threat of the Fire, curse, or wrath in the Hereafter, or a denial of iman from its perpetrator. The seven destroyers mentioned by the Prophet ﷺ (Bukhari, Muslim) are: shirk with Allah, sihr (magic), killing a soul Allah has forbidden, consuming riba, consuming the wealth of an orphan, fleeing on the day of battle, and slandering chaste believing women.

Question 3

What is the sharia and how is it applied?

Accepted Answer

Ibn al-Qayyim wrote that the sharia is built entirely on wisdom and the welfare of mankind in this life and the next — it is justice, mercy, benefit, and wisdom in its totality. Any ruling that departs from justice into oppression, from mercy into cruelty, or from benefit into harm is not part of the sharia even if introduced under that name. It is applied through the Quran, the authentic Sunnah, the consensus of the Companions, and qiyas built upon them.

Question 4

What is the reward for patience (Sabr) in times of hardship?

Accepted Answer

Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen explained that patience (sabr) is one of the highest stations of faith, and its reward from Allah is immense and unquantifiable. He categorized patience into three types: patience in carrying out the commands of Allah, patience in abstaining from the prohibitions of Allah, and patience with the painful decrees of Allah (hardships).

Regarding patience in times of hardship, which is the focus of the question, the reward is multifaceted. Firstly, it serves as an expiation for sins. When a believer is afflicted with distress, illness, sorrow, or any harm, and they endure it with patience seeking Allah's reward, their sins are wiped away. This is based on the authentic hadith where the Prophet (ﷺ) stated that no harm befalls a Muslim, not even a thorn prick, except that Allah expiates some of their sins because of it.

Secondly, and most significantly, the reward for patience is boundless. Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen emphasizes that while the rewards for most good deeds are specified as being multiplied tenfold or more, the reward for patience is explicitly stated to be without limit. He cites the statement of Allah in the Qur'an as the primary evidence for this.

Therefore, the believer should understand that enduring trials with acceptance of Allah's decree, without complaining or despairing, is a tremendous act of worship. It not only cleanses one of their sins but also earns them an immeasurable reward from Allah on the Day of Judgment. The hardship itself becomes a means of purification and elevation of one's status in the Hereafter.

Question 5

Why do Muslims follow a lunar calendar (Hijri)?

Accepted Answer

Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen explained that the use of the lunar (Hijri) calendar is based on divine wisdom and guidance. Allah Himself established the phases of the moon as natural and visible signs for keeping time, as mentioned in the Qur'an. This makes the lunar calendar accessible to all people, literate or illiterate, in any part of the world, as it relies on simple observation rather than complex astronomical calculations.

The Shaykh noted that the months of the lunar year are tied to these natural signs, beginning and ending with the sighting of the new crescent. In contrast, the months of the solar (Gregorian) calendar are purely conventional, with no corresponding natural event marking their start or end.

Crucially, all time-based Islamic acts of worship ('ibadat) are linked to the lunar calendar. This includes the fast of Ramadan, the 'Eid festivals, the Hajj pilgrimage, and the waiting periods ('iddah) for women. To abandon the lunar calendar would be to disconnect from the divinely appointed schedule for these fundamental rites.

Furthermore, adhering to the Hijri calendar is a matter of preserving the identity of the Muslim ummah. The calendar marks its starting point from the Hijrah (the Prophet's migration from Makkah to Madinah), a foundational event in Islamic history. Using it is a way of honoring our heritage and distinguishing ourselves from other nations. While it may be permissible to use the Gregorian calendar for worldly necessities and administrative purposes where it is required, Muslims should not abandon the Hijri calendar. They should be proud of it, use it in their daily lives, and see it as a symbol of their connection to their faith and history, a practice that is at least mustahabb (recommended).

Question 6

Why do Muslims follow a lunar calendar (Hijri)?

Accepted Answer

The use of the lunar calendar in Islam is a matter of divine legislation, rooted in the Qur'an and imbued with profound wisdom. Muslims follow the Hijri calendar because Allah has designated the cycles of the moon as the natural method for humanity to mark time, particularly for religious observances.

Allah says in the Qur'an: "They ask you, [O Muhammad], about the new moons. Say, 'They are measurements of time for the people and for Hajj.'" (Qur'an 2:189). Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen explains that this verse establishes the new moons (ahillah) as a clear and universal sign for everyone, regardless of their level of education or access to technology. An unlettered person in the desert and a learned scholar in the city can both look to the sky to know the beginning and end of the months.

This contrasts with the solar calendar, the calculation of which requires specialized astronomical knowledge. The Islamic calendar's reliance on direct observation makes the practice of Islam, especially pillars like fasting in Ramadan and performing the Hajj, accessible and uniform for all Muslims everywhere.

Furthermore, Allah decreed the number of months to be twelve in His book on the day He created the heavens and the earth (Qur'an 9:36). The wisdom in the lunar year being approximately 11 days shorter than the solar year is that Islamic rituals rotate through all seasons. Over a 33-year cycle, Ramadan and Hajj will occur in winter, spring, summer, and autumn. This ensures that no single community is permanently burdened with fasting during long, hot summer days, nor is any community permanently given the ease of fasting during short, cool winter days. It is a manifestation of divine justice and mercy, distributing the experience of worship in different conditions among all peoples over time.

Question 7

What is the importance of knowledge and learning in Islam?

Accepted Answer

Seeking knowledge of the religion is an obligation upon every Muslim, male and female, as it is the foundation upon which one's faith and deeds are built. Without knowledge, a person cannot worship Allah correctly, nor distinguish between truth and falsehood, Sunnah and bid'ah.

Shaykh Ibn Baz explained that the primary knowledge a Muslim must seek is that which is essential for their religion to be sound. This includes understanding the meaning of the two testimonies of faith (the Shahadatayn), the pillars of Islam, the nullifiers of Islam, and the pillars of Iman. It involves learning about Tawhid (the oneness of Allah) and what opposes it from Shirk (polytheism), and learning the specifics of obligatory acts of worship like prayer (Salah) and purification (Tahara).

Allah Almighty commanded His Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and by extension all Muslims, to seek knowledge. He said: "And say, 'My Lord, increase me in knowledge.'" (Qur'an 20:114). This shows its tremendous virtue. Furthermore, Allah elevates the people of knowledge, as He says: "Allah will raise those who have believed among you and those who were given knowledge, by degrees." (Qur'an 58:11).

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also emphasized its importance, stating, "When Allah wishes good for a person, He grants him understanding (fiqh) of the religion." This narration, agreed upon by al-Bukhari and Muslim, indicates that a sign of Allah wanting good for His servant is that He guides them to learn and comprehend their Deen.

Therefore, it is incumbent upon every Muslim to dedicate time to learning the essentials of their faith from reliable sources—the Qur'an and the Sunnah—according to the understanding of the righteous predecessors (the Salaf as-Salih), so that their worship may be upon a foundation of clear-sightedness and proof. Neglecting this leads to falling into ignorance, misguidance, and innovation.

Question 8

What is the importance of knowledge and learning in Islam?

Accepted Answer

Shaykh Ibn Baz explained that seeking knowledge is one of the greatest acts of worship that brings a Muslim closer to Allah. He clarified that the ruling on seeking knowledge is divided into two categories.

The first category is Fard 'Ayn (an individual obligation) upon every Muslim, male and female. This is the essential knowledge required to practice the religion correctly. It includes understanding the basics of 'Aqidah (creed), such as the meaning of the Shahadah, the pillars of Iman, and what nullifies one's Islam. It also includes learning how to perform acts of worship that are obligatory upon oneself, such as the rules of Taharah (purification), Salah (prayer), Zakat (if applicable), and Sawm (fasting). Ignorance in these matters is not an excuse for one who is able to learn.

The second category is Fard Kifayah (a communal obligation). This refers to delving deeper into the Islamic sciences, such as memorizing the Qur'an, studying the sciences of Hadith, specializing in Fiqh, and learning the Arabic language. If a sufficient number of people in the community undertake this study to meet the needs of the Ummah, the obligation is lifted from the rest. For the individual, pursuing this type of knowledge is a highly recommended (mustahabb) and virtuous act.

The Shaykh emphasized that the path to knowledge is a path to Paradise and is a sign of Allah's favor.

Question 9

How can non-Muslims better understand Islam and Muslim culture?

Accepted Answer

Shaykh Abd al-Aziz ibn Baz advised non-Muslims seeking to understand Islam to begin by turning directly to its foundational sources with a sincere heart. The most crucial step is to ask Allah (God) Himself for guidance to the truth.

First, one should engage with the Qur'an. It is recommended to read a reliable translation of the meanings of the Qur'an to understand its core message concerning the oneness of God (Tawhid), the purpose of creation, the stories of the prophets, and the reality of the Hereafter. The Qur'an is the literal word of God, and its message is the ultimate foundation of the faith.

Second, one should study the life and character of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) as conveyed in the authentic Sunnah (his sayings, actions, and approvals). His life is the practical embodiment of the Qur'anic teachings, and understanding his example is essential to understanding Islam as a complete way of life. Authentic biographies (Seerah) and collections of his traditions (hadith) are the key resources for this.

Shaykh Ibn Baz would also stress the importance of distinguishing between the pure teachings of Islam found in these sources and the cultural practices or innovations of some Muslims, which may not be representative of the faith. A non-Muslim should be careful to take knowledge from trustworthy, knowledgeable Muslims who adhere to the Qur'an and Sunnah, and avoid sources that promote misinterpretations or deviant ideologies. Pondering the signs of God in the universe is also encouraged, as this is a method the Qur'an itself uses to lead a person to recognize their Creator.

Question 10

What is the difference between Sunni and Shia Muslims?

Accepted Answer

The differences between Ahlus-Sunnah wa’l-Jama’ah (Sunnis) and the Shi’a are numerous and fundamental, touching upon the core principles of faith ('aqeedah). The Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’ clarifies that these are not merely political differences but theological ones.

The most significant point of divergence is the issue of the Imamate (leadership). Ahlus-Sunnah believe that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) did not appoint a specific successor, and the community rightly chose Abu Bakr al-Siddiq as the first Caliph, followed by 'Umar, 'Uthman, and 'Ali. They hold all the Companions (Sahaba) in high esteem, viewing them as righteous and just, based on Allah's praise for them in the Qur'an.

In contrast, the Shi’a claim that leadership is a divine station appointed by God. They believe the Prophet explicitly designated his cousin and son-in-law, 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, as his immediate successor. Consequently, they view the caliphates of Abu Bakr, 'Umar, and 'Uthman as illegitimate usurpations of 'Ali's rightful position. This belief leads many sects of Shi'a to denigrate or even declare disbelief (takfir) upon the majority of the Companions.

Furthermore, this leads to differences in the sources of Islamic law. Ahlus-Sunnah accept the traditions (hadith) narrated by all trustworthy Companions. The Shi’a reject these narrations and rely on their own collections of reports, which are primarily attributed to the Prophet’s family (Ahl al-Bayt) and their designated Imams.

Another core difference is the Shi’i doctrine of 'Ismah (infallibility), which asserts that their Twelve Imams, like the Prophets, are divinely protected from sin and error. Ahlus-Sunnah believe that infallibility in conveying the divine message is exclusive to the Prophets and Messengers of Allah.

General Beliefs

What is the reward for patience in hardship?

What are the major sins in Islam?

What is the sharia and how is it applied?

Why do Muslims follow a lunar calendar (Hijri)?

What is the importance of knowledge and learning in Islam?

How can non-Muslims better understand Islam and Muslim culture?

What is the difference between Sunni and Shia Muslims?

What are some common duas (supplications) and when to recite them?

What is the spiritual meaning of the five pillars?

Are all Muslims Arabs? (And where do most Muslims live?)?

Is Islam a religion of peace or violence?

Does Islam support or oppress women's rights?

What is the meaning of "Halal" and "Haram"?

What are the Five Pillars of Islam?

What is the concept of the Hereafter (Akhirah) in Islam?

The Five Pillars & Daily Practice?

Is the God of Islam the same as the God of Christianity and Judaism?

What is Islam and what do Muslims believe?

What should a new Muslim do first after converting (Shahada, previous sins, etc.)?

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