Religion

The practice of niyyah in Islam is a crucial aspect of our faith. Niyyah is the act of intention, and it is believed that our intentions shape our actions and our destiny. As Muslims, it is important to make niyyah before performing any act, be it a small task or a major undertaking.

Niyyah is an Arabic word that means intention, purpose, or motive. It is a key concept in Islam, as it determines the validity and reward of one’s actions. According to Islamic teachings, one should have a sincere and pure niyyah for every act of worship, such as prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage, etc. One should also have a good niyyah for every worldly action, such as work, study, family, etc., and seek the pleasure of Allah (SWT) in everything they do. Niyyah is not only a verbal declaration, but also a state of mind and heart that reflects one’s faith and commitment to Islam.

Practicing Islamic niyyah means to constantly renew and purify one’s intention for the sake of Allah (SWT), and to align one’s actions with the guidance of the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Practicing Islamic niyyah helps one to avoid hypocrisy, arrogance, ostentation, and other negative traits that can corrupt one’s deeds. Practicing Islamic niyyah also helps one to achieve excellence, sincerity, gratitude, and humility in one’s life. Practicing Islamic niyyah is a way of worshiping Allah (SWT) with one’s heart and mind, as well as one’s body and soul.

What are Payment Niyyah?
Payment Niyyah(intentions) are the specific purposes or causes that our donors choose or specify when they make their payments to us. Payment intentions can be general or specific, depending on the donor’s preference. For example, a donor can make a general payment intention for any charitable cause that we support, such as education, health, water, food, etc. Or, a donor can make a specific payment intention for a particular project, program, or country that we work in, such as building a school in Pakistan, providing medical aid in Yemen, digging a well in Somalia, etc.
By making a payment intention, our donors express their niyyah for their donation and seek the pleasure of Allah (SWT) in their action. By following their payment intention, we respect their niyyah and seek the pleasure of Allah (SWT) in our action.

How We Follow the Payment Intentions of Our Donors?
We follow the payment intentions of our donors by using a transparent and accountable system that ensures that every payment is spent according to its intended purpose or cause. We use the following steps to follow the payment intentions of our donors:

  • We record the payments and their payment intentions in our database and issue receipts or acknowledgments to our donors.
  • We allocate the payments according to their payment intentions to different categories or accounts that correspond to different purposes or causes that we support.
  • We monitor and track the spending of the payments according to their categories or accounts and ensure that they are used for their intended purposes or causes only.
  • We audit and verify the spending of the payments according to their categories or accounts and ensure that they are compliant with the Islamic principles and rules of finance.
  • We report and communicate the spending of the payments according to their categories or accounts to our donors and stakeholders through various channels, such as website, social media, etc.
  • We evaluate and measure the impact and outcome of the spending of the payments according to their categories or accounts on the beneficiaries and society.

Why We Follow the Payment Intentions of Our Donors?
We follow the payment intentions of our donors because we believe that it is our duty and responsibility as an Islamic charity institute to do so. We follow the payment intentions of our donors because:

  • It is a way of fulfilling our trust (amanah) with our donors who entrust us with their donations and contributions.
  • It is a way of respecting their wishes and preferences regarding how they want their donations and contributions to be spent.
  • It is a way of honoring their niyyah (intention) for their donations and contributions and seeking the pleasure of Allah (SWT) in their action.
  • It is a way of ensuring that their donations and contributions are spent in a halal (permissible) and effective manner that benefits the needy and the oppressed in the world.
  • It is a way of increasing their confidence and satisfaction with our work and services and encouraging them to continue supporting us in the future.

We at the Islamic charity institute, all our efforts are to carefully follow all the payment intentions of our donors and spend their payments according to their intentions. We do this because we value their trust and confidence in us, we respect their wishes and preferences regarding how they want their payments to be spent, we honor their niyyah (intention) for their payments and seek the pleasure of Allah (SWT) in their action, we ensure that their payments are spent in a halal (permissible) and effective manner that benefits the needy and the oppressed in the world, and we increase their confidence and satisfaction with our work and services and encourage them to continue supporting us in the future. May Allah (SWT) reward our donors and us for our efforts and accept our deeds. Ameen.

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipReligionReportWhat We Do

The Ultimate Sacrifice: Understanding Martyrdom in Islam
Martyrdom, or the act of willingly sacrificing oneself for the sake of a greater cause, is a concept deeply ingrained in Islamic history and jurisprudence. The Quran and Hadith are replete with references to martyrs and their sacrifices, and the concept of martyrdom continues to inspire and motivate Muslims around the world. In this article, we will explore the meaning and significance of martyrdom in Islam, and shed light on its various aspects.

What is Martyrdom in Islam?
In Islamic jurisprudence, martyrdom is known as ‘shahadah,’ which literally means ‘witnessing.’ According to Islamic teachings, a martyr is someone who dies while defending or promoting the cause of Allah, or while fighting against oppression and injustice. The act of martyrdom is seen as the ultimate sacrifice, and is believed to earn the martyr a high status in the eyes of Allah.

The Importance of Martyrdom in Islamic History
Martyrdom has played a crucial role in the history of Islam, from the early days of the faith to the present day. The Prophet Muhammad himself is considered a martyr, having endured persecution and hardship for the sake of spreading the message of Islam. The first shahada in Islam was that of Sumayyah bint Khayyat, a woman who was killed by the pagan Meccans for refusing to renounce Islam.

Throughout Islamic history, countless men and women have given their lives for the sake of their faith. From the Battle of Badr to the modern-day conflicts in Palestine and Syria, Muslims have been inspired by the example of the martyrs, and have been willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of their religion.

The Significance of Martyrdom in Islamic Culture
Martyrdom is not only a concept with religious significance in Islam, but also a cultural phenomenon that has shaped the identity of Muslim communities around the world. The image of the martyr, with his or her unwavering commitment to the cause of Islam, is a powerful symbol of resistance and defiance against oppression and injustice.

In many Muslim societies, the martyr is revered and celebrated as a hero, and their sacrifice is seen as a source of inspiration and motivation for future generations. The families of martyrs are often regarded as deserving of special honor and respect, and are seen as symbols of the community’s resilience and strength.

The Ethics of Martyrdom in Islam
While martyrdom is a highly admired concept in Islam, it is not without its ethical considerations. Islamic jurisprudence recognizes the importance of preserving human life, and views martyrdom as a last resort in situations of extreme danger and oppression.

Moreover, the act of martyrdom must be carried out in accordance with certain principles and guidelines. For instance, the martyr must have a clear intention of sacrificing their life for the sake of Allah, and must not seek personal gain or glory from their sacrifice. The martyr must also take all possible precautions to avoid harming innocent civilians or non-combatants.

In conclusion, martyrdom is a complex and multifaceted concept in Islam, with deep roots in the religion’s history and culture. While the act of martyrdom is seen as the ultimate sacrifice and a source of inspiration for Muslims around the world, it is also subject to ethical considerations and guidelines. By understanding the meaning and significance of martyrdom in Islam, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices of those who have given their lives for the sake of their faith.

Religion

Arbaeen Ziyarat: A Journey of Love and Faith
Arbaeen Ziyarat is a pilgrimage that millions of Muslims make every year to the holy city of Karbala in Iraq. It is a journey of love and faith that commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his companions in the battle of Karbala in the year 680 AD.

What is Arbaeen Ziyarat?
Arbaeen means forty in Arabic, and it refers to the fortieth day after Ashura, the day when Imam Husain (AS) and his loyal followers were brutally killed by the army of Yazid, the tyrant ruler of the Umayyad dynasty. Imam Husain (AS) refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid, who was corrupt and oppressive, and stood up for justice and truth. He sacrificed his life and his family for the sake of Islam and humanity.

Arbaeen Ziyarat is a way of expressing loyalty, gratitude and devotion to Imam Husain (AS) and his noble cause. It is also a way of renewing the pledge to follow his example and teachings, which are derived from the sources of Islamic jurisprudence.

How is Arbaeen Ziyarat performed?
Arbaeen Ziyarat is performed by visiting the shrines of Imam Husain (AS) and his brother Hazrat Abbas (AS) in Karbala, where they are buried. The pilgrims also visit other holy sites related to the tragedy of Karbala, such as the graves of other martyrs, the place where Imam Husain’s (AS) head was severed, the place where his sister Zainab (SA) delivered a powerful sermon against Yazid, and the place where his son Ali Zainul Abideen (AS) was imprisoned.

One of the most remarkable features of Arbaeen Ziyarat is the walk from Najaf to Karbala, which covers a distance of about 80 kilometers. This walk is a symbol of solidarity, endurance and love for Imam Husain (AS). Millions of people from different countries, backgrounds and sects join this walk every year, forming a huge human caravan that moves with chants of “Labbaik Ya Hussain” (Here I am, O Husain).

The walk is also a manifestation of generosity and hospitality, as thousands of volunteers set up camps along the way to provide free food, water, medical care and accommodation to the walkers. These camps are called mawakeb, and they are funded by Islamic charities and donations from believers.

What are the benefits of Arbaeen Ziyarat?
Arbaeen Ziyarat is not only a physical journey, but also a spiritual one. It has many benefits for the pilgrims, such as:

  • It strengthens their faith and connection with Allah (SWT), as they remember His blessings and mercy on Imam Husain (AS) and his followers.
  • It purifies their souls and hearts from sins and evils, as they repent and seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT) for their shortcomings.
  • It inspires them to follow the path of Imam Husain (AS) and his principles of justice, courage, patience and sacrifice.
  • It unites them with their fellow Muslims in brotherhood and harmony, as they share their joys and sorrows with each other.
  • It educates them about the history and values of Islam, as they learn from the stories and lessons of Imam Husain (AS) and his companions.
  • It motivates them to serve humanity and contribute to social justice, as they witness the needs and challenges of the people in Iraq and other parts of the world.

Arbaeen Ziyarat is a unique experience that transforms the lives of those who undertake it. It is a journey that touches the hearts and souls of millions every year. It is a journey that honors Imam Husain (AS), who gave everything for Islam. It is a journey that celebrates love and faith in Allah (SWT).

Religion

What is The concept of Arbaeen?
Arbaeen is an Arabic word meaning forty, referring to the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Arbaeen marks the end of the official mourning period following Imam Hussain’s martyrdom on the day of Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram. The event of Arbaeen holds great religious significance for Shia Muslims around the world.

On the day of Ashura, Imam Hussain (AS) and his followers were brutally massacred by the forces of Yazid, the Umayyad caliph, in the Battle of Karbala. Imam Hussain (AS) and 72 companions were martyred in the battle after refusing to pledge allegiance to Yazid, who they considered unjust and tyrannical. Imam Hussain’s sacrifice laid the foundations of justice, truth and righteousness.

40th day after Ashura

On the 40th day after Ashura, Imam Hussain’s followers gathered at his grave in Karbala to pay homage to the Imam and honor his martyrdom. Millions of Muslims visit the shrine of Imam Hussain on Arbaeen as a mark of devotion to his cause and sacrifice. The congregation on Arbaeen is said to be the largest annual public gathering in the world. Arbaeen is one of the Shia ceremonies, but there are Shia and Sunni Muslims among this population. Arbaeen walk and presence in Karbala are more related to the friendship and interest of Muslims towards Islam. In this procession, many Muslims regardless of religion and even non-Muslims are present.

The Arbaeen observance also symbolizes Muslims unity and solidarity. Muslims from different parts of the world gather at Karbala in a show of common devotion and brotherhood beyond ethnic, linguistic and geographical divides.

Arbaeen has a deep significance for Shia Muslims as a religious ritual that commemorates Imam Hussain’s revolutionary ideals of truth and justice. The gathering on Arbaeen seeks to renew the pledge to continue Imam Hussain’s mission and uphold his virtuous values.

The ritual of visiting Imam Hussain’s grave on Arbaeen carries a profound spiritual impact for millions of devotees. It invokes a profound sense of sorrow for the injustice done to Imam Hussain and his followers, along with the strong desire to uphold righteousness in the face of tyranny and oppression.

The main rituals performed on the day of Arbaeen include visiting the Imam Hussain’s shrine in Karbala, reciting marsiyas or elegies that commemorate the martyrdom, walking on foot from Najaf to Karbala in remembrance of Imam Hussain’s companions, engaging in charitable acts to honor Imam Hussain’s message of social justice, and renewing one’s pledge to follow Imam Hussain’s example of sacrifice in the face of injustice.

Arbaeen marks an important day in Shia tradition that seeks to carry forward the eternal spirit of Imam Hussain’s sacrifice and his cause of truth, justice and righteousness. The large congregations on Arbaeen serve as a global manifestation of devotion to Imam Hussain and Muslims solidarity across ethnic and geographic divides.

Religion

Donating in Honor: A Blessed Tradition in Islamic Charities
Have you ever wanted to honor a loved one in a way that’s meaningful, lasting, and spiritually rewarding? Have you ever wished your good deeds would somehow benefit both you and your dear ones, especially those who are no longer with us? That’s where the beautiful practice of donating in someone’s honor comes into play, a tradition deeply embedded in the fabric of Islamic charity.

The Essence of Donating in Honor
At the heart of our faith lies the principle of compassion, and what better way to express it than by giving in the name of someone you hold dear? It’s not just an act of charity—it’s a testament to our interconnectedness, a thread of love and respect that weaves through generations. This act of altruism transcends the boundaries of time, reaching out to touch the souls of those who have walked before us.

When we donate in honor of our parents or grandparents, we’re not merely engaging in a transaction. We’re sending a message of love and respect that resonates far beyond the physical realm. This act is meant to be a source of ongoing reward (Thawab) for the departed souls, a way of expressing our undying affection for them.

Sadaqah: A Gift that Keeps on Giving
In the Islamic tradition, Sadaqah is a voluntary act of charity performed to benefit the needy and spread kindness in society. Yet, its impact is not limited to this world. It’s believed that Sadaqah’s rewards ripple through the afterlife, benefiting the donor and, if given on behalf of another, the person in whose name it’s given.

When you donate to Sadaqah in honor of your ancestors, you’re not just doing good—you’re extending the impact of that good to your loved ones. It’s as if they are still among us, participating in our acts of kindness, sharing in the blessings they bring. What could be more comforting than knowing that our deeds can bring spiritual benefit to those we loved and lost?

The Thawab Effect: Blessings Multiplied
Thawab, the divine reward for good deeds, is a core belief in our faith. What makes Thawab exceptional is its compounding nature. The more good we do, the more Thawab we accumulate, creating a virtuous cycle of positivity and spiritual growth.

When we donate in someone’s honor, we’re essentially sharing our Thawab with them. It’s a wonderful way to keep their spirit alive, to continue the good they’ve done during their lifetime, and to connect our lives with theirs in a profound, spiritual way.

A Legacy of Love and Blessings
When all is said and done, donating in honor is more than just a charitable act—it’s a spiritual journey, a way to keep our connections with our loved ones alive and meaningful. It’s a testament to the love we carry in our hearts, a love that doesn’t end with worldly separation but continues to grow and thrive through our actions.

By giving Sadaqah in the name of our ancestors, we’re not just honoring their memory—we’re ensuring their legacy, sharing our blessings with them, and perpetuating a cycle of good that benefits us all. So, the next time you want to honor a loved one, consider giving in their name. It’s a beautiful way to express love, respect, and devotion, creating a ripple of goodness that echoes through eternity.

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipReligionSadaqah