The act of preferring one analogy to another is called "istihsan" in Islamic jurisprudence. It refers to the jurist's discretion in choosing a particular analogy or legal reasoning over others based on considerations such as public interest, equity, or common sense.

The Muslim general who conquered the area of today's Spain during the Umayyad Caliphate was Tariq ibn Ziyad. He led the Muslim forces across the Strait of Gibraltar in 711 AD, marking the beginning of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula.

The Surah of the Holy Quran that mentions the heads of Zakat is Surah At-Tawbah (Surah 9), specifically in verse 60:

"Zakat expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed to collect [zakat] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler - an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise." (Quran 9:60)

The Quran specifies eight categories for the distribution of Zakat, which is the obligatory alms upon wealth in Islam. These categories are designated by God Himself, ensuring that zakat payers and administrators adhere to these guidelines. Here are the eight kinds of people who can receive zakat:

1. The Poor (al-fuqarâ’): Refers to low-income or indigent individuals.
2. The Needy (al-masâkîn): Includes those who are facing difficulties.
3. Zakat Administrators: Individuals involved in collecting and distributing zakat.
4. Those Whose Hearts Are to Be Reconciled: This category encompasses new Muslims and friends of the Muslim community.
5. Those in Bondage (Slaves and Captives): Zakat can be used to help free those held in bondage.
6. The Debt-Ridden: Individuals burdened by debt.
7. In the Cause of God: Zakat can be used for charitable purposes aligned with God’s cause.
8. The Wayfarer: Refers to those who are stranded or traveling with limited resources.

Remember that while zakat is not the only form of charity in Islam, it holds immense importance as the Third Pillar. Through zakat, the prosperous can uplift the poor, assist those in trouble, and provide comfort to those facing hardship. By paying zakat, you contribute to positive change in the world.

The Salatul Kasuf (Prayer of solar and lunar eclipse) is a confirmed Sunnah in Islam. Here are the details on how to perform this special prayer:

1. Time of the Prayer:
   • There is no specific time for the prayer; it is performed when the eclipse starts until it ends.
   • For a solar eclipse, the prayer is held during the day, and for a lunar eclipse, it is performed during the night ¹.
2. Method of Performing the Eclipse Prayer:
   • Make Ghusl (ceremonial washing) before the prayer if possible.
   • Pray it in congregation in the mosque without raising the Azaan or Eqama. Instead, it is called for by saying “as-salatu jami’ah” (Prayer in congregation).
   • After the prayer, the Imam delivers two speeches (sermons) similar to the Eid prayer.
   • Although it is permissible for a single person to perform it, praying it in congregation is better.
   • Women can offer it while in their houses ².
3. Structure of the Eclipse Prayer (Perfect Form):
   • Two Rakat (units of prayer).
   • In each Rakat:
     • Perform two standings (Qiyam).
     • Recite Al-Fatihah in each standing.
     • Recite surat Al-Baqarah, or a chapter of similar length, silently.
     • Make a long bow (Ruku) and glorify (Tasbeeh) Allah for a period equivalent to reciting a hundred verses.
     • Stand up and glorify Allah as well as thank Him while in that position.
     • Recite a chapter shorter than Al-Baqarah (e.g., Al-Emran) in the second standing.
     • Make a shorter bow than the first one.
     • Stand up and glorify Allah as well as give thanks to Him, but less than the first time.
     • Make two long Sajdahs (prostrations) without waiting for a long time between them.
     • Stand up and repeat similar acts offered in the first Rakat but with shorter length.
     • Offer Tashahud and Tasleem ².
4. Recommended Recitation (Perfect Form):
   • After the Istiftah supplication, seek refuge in Allah and recite:
     • In the first standing (Qiyam): Al-Baqarah.
     • In the second standing: Al-Emran.
     • In the third standing: An-Nissa’.
     • In the fourth standing: Al-Mai’da, or chapters of similar length.
   • Offer Tasbeeh (Glorification of Allah) during the first bow (Ruku) for a period equivalent to reciting a hundred verses from Al-Baqarah.
   • Continue the rest of the prayer as with other prayers.
   • The Imam delivers two speeches (sermons) similar to the Friday prayer ².

Remember that the eclipse prayer is a moment to turn to Allah, seek His forgiveness, and reflect on His signs in the universe. May our hearts be filled with devotion during these awe-inspiring celestial events.

The legendary Bayt al-Hikma, also known as the House of Wisdom, was a remarkable institution established in the 8th century by Caliph Harun al-Rashid during the Abbasid era. Later, it flourished under the rule of his son, Caliph Al-Mamun, and his immediate successors. This esteemed center in Baghdad played a pivotal role during the Islamic Golden Age.

The House of Wisdom was believed to be a major public academy and intellectual center. While some sources suggest it was founded as a library for the collections of Caliph Harun al-Rashid, others propose that it began as a private collection of rare books and poetry assembled by the second Abbasid caliph, al-Mansur. During the reign of the seventh Abbasid caliph, al-Ma’mun, it was transformed into a public academy and library.

The House of Wisdom was instrumental in the Greco-Arabic translation movement, where works from Greek and Syriac were translated into Arabic. Although it is unlikely that the House of Wisdom was the sole center for such work, it contributed significantly to the advancement of mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, and medicine in the Muslim world. Ultimately, this illustrious institution met its demise during the Mongol siege of Baghdad in 1258.

While some historians have questioned the narrative surrounding the House of Wisdom, its legacy as a center of intellectual exchange and translation remains a fascinating chapter in history.

• Conversion to Islam:
  • Sumayya was among the first seven individuals to openly embrace Islam.
  • The Quraysh, who persecuted Muslims of low social rank, targeted Sumayya’s family after the death of their patron.
  • Despite severe torture, Sumayya remained steadfast in her faith and refused to abandon Islam.
  • She, along with Yasir and Ammar, endured physical and emotional torment, including being forced to stand in the sun while dressed in mail-coats.
• Martyrdom:
  • Sumayya’s unwavering commitment led to her becoming the first martyr of the Ummah (community) of Muhammad.
  • One evening, Amr ibn Hisham (Abu Jahl), also a member of the Makhzum clan, verbally insulted her and then killed her by stabbing and impaling her with his spear.
  • Sumayya’s sacrifice remains a powerful testament to her faith and resilience.
  • Later, her husband Yasir was also tortured to death, becoming the second martyr in Islam.

Hazrat Sumayya’s legacy serves as an inspiration for believers, reminding us of the strength that emanates from unwavering devotion to God. May her memory continue to shine brightly in the annals of Islamic history.

The reformer who fought against Akbar's Din-e-Ilahi was Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi, commonly known as Mujaddid Alif Sani. He was a prominent Islamic scholar and mystic who lived during the reign of Emperor Akbar in the Mughal Empire. Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi vehemently opposed Akbar's Din-e-Ilahi, which was a syncretic religion introduced by Akbar that attempted to blend elements of various religions. Sirhindi criticized Din-e-Ilahi as a departure from orthodox Islam and worked to preserve traditional Islamic teachings.

The book of ahadith titled “Sahifah al-Sadiqah” was narrated by Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-Aas, one of the companions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This collection is often referred to as the first book of hadith. It contains valuable sayings and practices of the Prophet, providing essential guidance for the Muslim community.

The author of the book “Al-Itqan Fi Uloom al-Quran” is Imam Jalaluddin Suyuti (may Allah have mercy upon him) . This remarkable work is a comprehensive treatise on the sciences of the Quran and serves as an invaluable resource for scholars and students alike.

Imam Suyuti (911H) dedicated his efforts to elucidating various aspects of the Quran, including its interpretation, linguistic nuances, and historical context. His work continues to inspire seekers of knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of the divine revelation.

May Allah bless Imam Suyuti’s legacy and grant us the ability to benefit from his scholarly contributions.

Imam Abu Hanifa’s full name was Numan bin Thabit bin Numan bin Marzuban. He was born in Kufa in the year 80 AH (699 CE) and passed away in 150 AH (767 CE) after the Hijrah. After studying the basics of Deen, Imam Saheb engaged himself in trade . His contributions to Islamic jurisprudence and theology continue to be influential, and he is widely recognized as one of the most significant scholars in Sunni Islam.