Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

61. What is Khums?

Answer: Khums is a form of Islamic tax that is particularly emphasized in Shia Islam. The term "khums" literally means "one-fifth" or 20%. This tax applies to the profit or surplus income of a person after deducting expenses for their family's annual living costs. It is a religious obligation mandated by the Quran and has significant theological and legal implications within Shia doctrine.

Khums is divided into two equal parts: 1. Sahm-e Imam (Share of the Imam): In the times of the physical presence of a divine Imam, this share would be given directly to him. In the absence of the Imam (during the Major Occultation of the Twelfth Imam), this portion is given to Shia religious leaders (Marja' or a qualified jurist), who use it for religious and charitable activities, educational development, and supporting the religious institutions that benefit the Shia community. 2. Sahm-e Sadaat (Share of the Sadaat): This part is given to the descendants of the Prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatima and son-in-law Ali, who are known as Sadaat or Sayyids. This portion is meant to help those among them who are needy, or to fund any project that benefits the poor Sadaat.

To watch video about Khums, please click: https://youtu.be/EMSyrqQKLmg?si=QwhsDQpHWS9mt-L_

 or to read more on Khums, Please click this link: 

https://books.findtruth.co.uk/ebooks/khums-the-fund-of-independence-of-bait-al-mal

62. What is the concept of Jihad?

Answer: The concept of Jihad is a fundamental Islamic principle that is considered one of the 10 main branches of Islam. This noble practice is often misunderstood. It encompasses a range of meanings, from an inner spiritual struggle to maintain faith and moral integrity, to an external struggle for justice or defence of the Islamic community.

In the broader Islamic context, jihad is primarily about striving for personal betterment and social justice. It's an essential part of practicing faith, emphasizing moral conduct, righteousness, and the communal obligation to support justice and oppose oppression.

To watch a video about Jihad, please follow the link:  https://findtruth.co.uk/understanding-jihad-breaking-misconceptions

Or to read more on the concept of Jihad, Please click this link:

https://books.findtruth.co.uk/ebooks/peace-and-jihad-in-islam

63. What is the concept of Amr bil Ma'ruf (Enjoining Good)?

Answer: The concept of "Amr bil Ma'ruf" (Enjoining Good) is a significant Islamic principle that encourages Muslims to promote what is morally right and virtuous according to Islamic teachings. It is often paired with "Nahi Anil Munkar" (Forbidding Evil), forming a critical component of Islamic ethics and social conduct. These principles are derived from the Quran and Hadith and serve as a means to maintain social harmony and uphold the moral order of society.

"Amr bil Ma'ruf" literally translates to "commanding what is good." It is based on several Quranic verses and Hadiths. For instance, the Quran states:

"Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong: They are the ones to attain felicity." (Quran 3:104)

Scope and Application:

1. Personal and Community Levels: At a personal level, this duty encourages individuals to lead by example, practicing good deeds and ethical behaviour in daily life. At the community level, Muslims are expected to encourage each other to adhere to Islamic values, such as honesty, justice, and compassion.

2. Methods of Implementation: The approach to enjoining good should be gentle and respectful, aiming to persuade rather than to compel. It involves advising, reminding, or guiding others towards better practices. The method and intensity of enjoining good can vary depending on the situation and the receptiveness of the person being addressed. It should always be done with wisdom and beautiful preaching, as emphasized in the Quran.

3. Limits and Considerations: Enjoining good must be practiced without infringing on others' rights or provoking hostility. It should be balanced with wisdom and a deep understanding of Islamic teachings. To watch the video on "Amr bil Ma'ruf" please click the link: https://findtruth.co.uk/amr-bil-maroof-nahi-anil-munkar-the-essence-of-islamic-morality

64. What is the concept of Nahy anil Munkar (Forbidding Wrong)?

Answer:  The concept of “Nahy anil Munkar” (Forbidding Wrong) is a fundamental Islamic principle that refers to the obligation of Muslims to prevent and speak out against actions and behaviours considered sinful or wrong according to Islamic teachings. This concept is paired with "Amr bil Ma'ruf" (Enjoining Good), forming a key component of Islamic ethics and social justice.

The roots of Nahy anil Munkar are deeply embedded in the Quran and Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad). The Quran emphasizes the importance of this duty in several verses, positioning it as a defining feature of the Muslim community. For instance:

Quran 3:104 states: "Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong: They are the ones to attain felicity."

Quran 3:110 describes Muslims as the best community ever raised for mankind because they enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong.

Objectives: The main objectives of Nahy anil Munkar include:

- Maintaining social order by preventing actions that can harm individuals or the society at large.

- Educational impact by raising awareness about Islamic values and laws.

- Moral rectitude by fostering a community guided by the ethical teachings of Islam.

Methodology: The methodology of forbidding wrong is guided by wisdom, kindness, and a clear understanding of the circumstances. Islamic teachings stress that the approach should be:

1. Non-confrontational: Initially, advising privately to avoid embarrassing or provoking the individual.

2. Gradual: If the private advice does not work, more public methods may be considered.

3. Proportional: The response should be proportionate to the severity of the wrong being committed.

Ethical and Practical Considerations: Wisdom and tact: It is crucial to approach situations with understanding and not in a way that may lead to greater harm or discord. Knowledge: One must be knowledgeable about what is actually considered wrong in Islam before taking action. Circumstance: Considering the context and the likely impact of any intervention is essential. Sometimes, it may be more prudent to refrain if the action could lead to greater harm.

In contemporary times, the application of Nahy anil Munkar is often discussed in terms of social activism, ethical governance, and community leadership. It plays a role in motivating Muslims to engage in social justice issues, fight corruption, and promote ethical behavior in both public and private spheres.

In essence, Nahy anil Munkar is about actively preserving the moral integrity of the community by preventing vice and promoting virtue, driven by compassion and a genuine desire for the well-being of others. This principle is considered a communal obligation, meaning if enough members of the community perform it, the obligation is lifted from the rest. However, its importance cannot be overstated, as it contributes directly to the moral and ethical fabric of Muslim societies. Preventing and discouraging evil and sinful actions within the community.

To learn more click the link: 

https://findtruth.co.uk/amr-bil-maroof-nahi-anil-munkar-the-essence-of-islamic-morality

65. What is Tawalla (Loving Prophet and his Ahl al-Bayt)?

Answer:  Tawalla is expressing love and loyalty towards the Prophet Muhammad and his holy progeny by following their teachings. It is a significant concept in Islamic theology, particularly emphasized in Shia Islam. It refers to the love, loyalty, and allegiance towards the Prophet Muhammad and his Ahl al-Bayt (family), which includes his daughter Fatimah, his cousin and son-in-law Ali, and their descendants, particularly the Twelve divine Imams.The love for the Prophet and his family is rooted in numerous Quranic verses that highlight the importance of following and showing affection towards the Prophet Muhammad. For example, Quran 42:23 is often cited, where God asks the Prophet to tell the people: "I do not ask you for any reward for it (preaching the message) except love for my near relatives; and whoever earns good, We give him more of good therein."

There are numerous hadiths from both Sunni and Shia sources that emphasize the significance of loving the Prophet’s family. A famous hadith from the Prophet states: "I leave behind among you two weighty things (Thaqalayn), the Book of Allah and my progeny, my Ahl al-Bayt. If you hold fast to them, you will never go astray after me."

 Components of Tawalla: Emotional Affection: This involves harbouring genuine love and affection towards the Prophet and his family. Intellectual Acknowledgment: Recognising and accepting the leadership and authority of the Ahl al-Bayt as divinely guided leaders. Practical Allegiance: Implementing their teachings in one's daily life, advocating for their values, and adhering to their example of conduct and spirituality.

In pure Islamic theology, Tawalla is not just a personal sentiment but a fundamental part of one's faith. It is often paired with **Tabarra** (disassociation from the enemies of the Ahl al-Bayt), and both are considered essential practices:

Identity and Unity: Tawalla helps define the identity of Muslims, creating a sense of unity and community around the central figures of their faith.

Spiritual and Ethical Guidance: The Ahl al-Bayt are seen as the ultimate models of piety, justice, and leadership. Their lives and teachings provide a direct link to the Prophet's message and are used as a guide for ethical behaviour and spiritual growth.

Socio-Political Dimensions: Tawalla also has socio-political implications, as it encompasses the support for leadership models based on the principles demonstrated by the Ahl al-Bayt, advocating justice, truth, and resistance against oppression.

Today, Tawalla manifests in various forms of religious practice, including participation in ceremonies commemorating the lives and martyrdoms of the Ahl al-Bayt, such as Muharram observances, and actively engaging in social justice causes inspired by their teachings. It also underpins the theological and community leadership in Shia contexts, influencing decisions from educational teachings to social activism based on the principles and examples set by the Prophet’s family.

Overall, Tawalla is a multifaceted concept that significantly influences the faith practice, community dynamics, and personal spirituality of Shia Muslims, reflecting a profound commitment to carrying forward the legacy of the Prophet Muhammad through his family. To learn more about it, please click the link: https://findtruth.co.uk/the-concept-of-tawallah

66. What is Tabarra (Disassociating from the Enemies of Ahl al-Bayt)?

Answer: Tabarra is disassociating from those who oppose or show hostility towards the holy Prophet and his holy family, which includes his daughter Fatimah, his cousin and son-in-law Ali, and their descendants. It is a concept particularly emphasized within Shia Islam and serves as a counterpart to Tawalla, the love and loyalty towards the Prophet and his family.

The foundation of Tabarra is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, particularly within Shia theology, which underscores the importance of maintaining purity of faith by not only adhering to the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt but also rejecting those who opposed them. This notion is supported by various interpretations of Quranic verses and numerous hadiths which suggest maintaining a distance from those who have harmed or opposed the path of the righteous and the divine leaders.

Community Identity and Cohesion: Tabarra plays a crucial role in defining the communal identity of Shia Muslims. It not only unites them in their shared reverence for the Ahl al-Bayt but also in their collective repudiation of those who have oppressed or fought against them.

Socio-Political Dimensions: Tabarra has significant socio-political implications, often reflecting in the political and social stances taken by Shia communities. It motivates actions and attitudes towards justice, equity, and resistance against oppression, mirroring the struggles faced by the Ahl al-Bayt.

To know more about it, please click the link: https://findtruth.co.uk/what-is-tabarrah-why-it-matters-in-islam

67. What is Quran?

Answer: The holy Quran, also spelled as Qur'an, is considered the word of God (Allah) as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) through Gabriel (Jibril) in two different ways. Firstly, it was revealed as a whole upon the heart of the Prophet Muhammad (SAWAS) on the Night of Qadr in the holy month of Ramadan. Secondly, it was revealed gradually, over a period of approximately 23 years. The Quran is written in classical Arabic which is known as the linguistic miracle and is divided into 114 chapters, known as Surahs, which vary in length. Each Surah is further divided into verses, known as Ayahs.

The Quran encompasses a wide range of topics and serves as a comprehensive guide for Human beings and Jinn. It covers aspects of theology, morality, law, guidance for personal conduct, and social justice.

In net shell, the holy Quran is not just a religious text but a comprehensive guide for life, embodying the core beliefs, values, and laws for humanity. Its teachings continue to inspire and guide over a billion Muslims around the world, making it one of the most influential books in human history.

68. Who wrote the Qur’an and in which year?

Answer: The Qur’an is not the creation or work of any human being. It is the divine revelation from Allah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny). Therefore, Allah is considered the true author of the Qur’an.

The process of revelation began in the year 610 CE, when the first verses were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) in the Cave of Hira near Makkah. Over the next 23 years, until the Prophet's passing in 632 CE, the Qur’an was revealed in stages to guide humanity in various aspects of life.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny), ensured the preservation of these revelations by immediately dictating them to his appointed scribes. These scribes, including Imam Ali bin Abi Talib and notable companions such as Zayd ibn Thabit, would write down the verses on available materials like parchment, leather, and palm leaves. In addition to being written, the Qur’an was memorized and recited regularly by the Prophet and his followers, ensuring its preservation in both written and oral forms.

Thus, the Qur’an was revealed gradually between 610 and 632 CE, and while the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) supervised its recording, the content itself is solely the word of Allah.

69. Into How Many Languages Has the Qur'an Been Translated?

Answer: The Qur'an has been translated into more than 100 languages, making it one of the most widely translated religious texts in the world. While it is difficult to provide an exhaustive list, translations are available in almost all major languages of Asia, Europe, and other parts of the world.

Indigenous and Lesser-Known Languages:

  • Many indigenous languages in regions such as Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Americas have translations to make the Qur'an accessible to local communities.

Preservation of Original Meaning

While translations help non-Arabic speakers understand the message of the Qur'an, it is important to note that Muslims consider the Arabic Qur'an as the original and literal word of Allah. Translations are viewed as interpretations of the meaning of the Qur'an rather than exact equivalents, due to the richness and depth of the Arabic language.

70. If Quran is for all, then why do we need an interpreter?

Answer: While the Quran is indeed easy to take lessons from, as stated in the verse:

"And We have certainly made the Quran easy for remembrance, so is there any who will remember?" (Surah Al-Qamar, 54:17), it also requires interpretation and explanation.

Given the presence of complex elements such as ambiguous and clear verses, abrogating and abrogated verses, and absolute and conditional statements, it is not straightforward for everyone to understand fully. Therefore, an interpreter is necessary. Allah Himself has appointed interpreters for the Quran:

"And We revealed to you the message that you may make clear to the people what was sent down to them" (Surah An-Nahl, 16:44). 

In this verse, the duty of the Prophet Muhammad (SAWAS) to explain and interpret the Quran is explicitly stated.

Additionally, the verse: "Our Lord, and raise up in their midst a messenger from among them who shall recite to them Your revelations, and shall instruct them in the Book and in wisdom, and shall purify them" (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:129) shows that teaching the Book refers not just to reading it, but to explaining its meanings and interpreting its verses.

Hadiths, such as the Hadith of Thaqalayn, which pairs the Quran with the Prophet's family (Ahlul Bayt), also indicate that the full understanding of the Quran cannot be achieved without them.

Therefore, while everyone can understand the Quran to some extent according to their knowledge and capacity, to reach a deeper and more accurate understanding, an interpreter is necessary. The true interpreters of the Quran, who are most knowledgeable about Allah's intentions, are the Prophet Muhammad (SAWAS) and the Imams from his family.

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