Chapter 1

Introduction

When the new moon of Ramadhan is seen in the sky, there is great excitement among Muslims all over the world. The month of Ramadhan is the month of Allah, Ramadhan is the month in which Allah has revealed the Holy Quran. It is the month of the Holy Quran. Allah does not mention any month by name in the Quran, except for the holy month of Ramadhan. Now again is the time when you are the guest of Allah, the Almighty.

"Ramadhan" is one of Allah's names. We should not say Ramadhan without making it clear that we are talking about the month. Imam Ali (AS) said: "Do not say Ramadhan, but say the month of Ramadhan; for you do not know what Ramadhan is".

The Holy Prophet said, “During this month good deeds are multiplied and sins forgiven. Its time is the best time. Its days are the best of the days and its nights, the best of the nights.”

Ramadhan is the month of Mercy. The month of Ramadhan is the month in which Allah has ordered us to fast. Fasting shields us from the fire of Hell. We move closer to Allah and our sins are forgiven.

Ramadhan is the month of good deeds and seeking forgiveness. The best deed is to stay away from what is forbidden by Allah. Ramadhan is the month of Charity.

When we give to others, Allah will keep away 70 kinds of problems from us. The month of Ramadhan is the month of Peace, just as Islam is the religion of peace.

Our fourth Imam Zayn al Abidiin (AS) has taught us a dua for this holy month:

Praise be to Allah, who appointed this month, the month of Ramadhan, the month of fasting the month of Islam, the month of purity, the month of purification, and the month of prayers.

Chapter 2

Fasting in Ramadhan

The Quran says “O you who believe! Fasting has been prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you so you may be God wary.”

We fast in this month so we can get closer to Allah, for “Ramadhan burns the sins and faults as fire burns wood.” It saves us from Hell fire and leads us to the peace and comfort of Paradise.

When you fast, you keep away from eating or drinking anything from before the break of dawn to after dusk, the time of Maghrib. The meal you have at the beginning is called Sehri and the meal after maghrib is called Iftar. You must do  niyyat to keep the fast, to become close to Allah.  We should be kind to others both in our family and our friends. We must treat people with love, and forgive those who have wronged us.

We should make peace and ask for Allah’s mercy. We should spend our time in the worship of Allah and obey His commands.

Anyone who, while fasting, does not guard his tongue from telling lies, does not give up bad deeds, is not respecting his fast. Allah does not approve of us merely being hungry. When you are keeping fast, you should not speak ill of anybody, you should not be rude and noisy. You should lower your gaze and do not look at things not allowed.

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) has told us that the days and nights of Ramadhan are special, very special. Every breath you take is counted as “tasbeeh”; even sleeping when you fast is worship. Allah wants us to read the Glorious Quran in this month. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, "A man gets the same reward reading one verse of the Holy Quran as others do by reading the whole of the Holy Quran in other months."

At the time of iftar, we recite the Dua e Iftar: Allahuma laka sumto wala rizqika aftartu wa alaika tawakaltu. O my Allah for you I fast and with the food You give me I break the fast, and I rely on You.

Chapter 3

Duas for Ramadhan

1st day O Allah, on this day make my fasts the fasts of those who fast (sincerely), and my standing up in prayer of those who stand up in prayer (obediently), awaken me in it, from the sleep of the heedless, and forgive me my sins, O God of the worlds. and forgive me, O one who forgives the sinners.

2nd day O Allah, on this day, take me closer towards Your pleasure, keep me away from Your anger and punishment, grant me the opportunity to recite verses (of the Qur'an), by Your mercy, O the most Merciful.

3rd day O Allah, on this day, Grant me wisdom and awareness, keep me away from foolishness and pretence, grant me a share in every blessing You send down, by Your generosity, O the most Merciful.

4th day O Allah, on this day, strengthen me to carry out Your commands, let me taste the sweetness of Your remembrance, grant me, through Your grace, that I give thanks to You. Protect me, with Your protection and cover, O the most aware of those who see.

5th day O Allah, on this day, include me among those who seek forgiveness. Place me among Your righteous and obedient servants, and among Your close friends, by Your kindness, O the most Merciful.

6th day O Allah, on this day, do not let me lower myself by disobeying you, and do not punish me. keep me away from what makes you angry, by Your kindness and Your power, O the ultimate wish of those who desire.

7th day O Allah, on this day, help me with its fasts and prayers, and keep me away from mistakes and sins grant me that I remember You continuously through the day, by Your help, O the Guide of those who stray.

8th day O Allah, on this day, let me have mercy on the orphans, and feed [the hungry], and spread peace, and keep company with the noble-minded, O the shelter of the hopeful.

9th day O Allah on this day, grant me a share from Your mercy which is wide, guide me towards Your shining proofs, lead me to Your pleasure, by Your love, O the hope of those who are eager .

10th day O Allah, on this day, make me among those who rely on You, those who You consider successful. and place me among those who are near to you, by Your favour, O goal of the seekers.

11th day O Allah, on this day, make me love goodness, and dislike dishonesty and disobedience, keep me away from anger and the fire [of Hell], by Your help, O the helper of those who seek help.

12th day O Allah, on this day, beautify me with covering and chastity, cover me with the clothes of contentment and sufficiency let me hold fast to justice and fairness, and keep me safe from all that I fear, by Your protection, O the protector of the frightened.

13th day O Allah, on this day, purify me from uncleanliness and dirt, make me patient over events that are decreed, grant me the ability to be pious, and keep company with the good, by Your help, O the adored of the needy.

14th day O Allah, on this day, do not condemn me for slips, make me lessen mistakes and errors, do not make me a target for troubles, by Your honour, O the honour of the Muslims.

15th day O Allah on this day, grant me the obedience of the humble expand my chest through repentance, by Your security, O the shelter of the fearful 16th day O Allah, on this day, grant me to be with those who are good, keep me away from the evil, lead me, by Your mercy, to the secure place, O the God of the worlds.

17th day O Allah, on this day, guide me towards righteous actions, fulfil my needs and hopes, O One who does not need explanations nor questions, O One who knows what is in the hearts of the (people of the) world. Bless Muhammad and his family, the Pure.

18th day O Allah, on this day, awaken me for the blessings of its early mornings, Illuminate my heart with the brightness of its rays, let every part of my body follow its effects, O the Light of the hearts of those who know.

19th day O Allah, on this day, multiply for me its blessings, and ease my path towards its bounties, do not deprive me of the acceptance of its good deeds, O the Guide towards the clear truth.

20th day O Allah, on this day, open for me the doors of the heavens, and lock the doors of Hell from me, help me to recite the Qur'an, O the One who sends down tranquillity into the hearts of believers.

21st day O Allah, on this day, show me the way to win Your pleasure, do not let Shaytan have a means over me, make Paradise a resting place for me, O the One who fulfils the requests of the needy.

22nd day O Allah, on this day, open for me the doors of Your Grace, send down on me its blessings, help me towards the causes of Your mercy,

and give me a place in the comforts of Paradise, O the one who answers the call of the distressed.

23rd day O Allah, on this day, wash away my sins, purify me from all flaws, examine my heart with (for) the piety of the hearts, O One who overlooks the shortcomings of the sinners.

24th day O Allah, on this day, I ask You for what pleases You, and I seek refuge in You from what displeases You, I ask You to grant me the opportunity to obey You and not disobey You, O One who is generous with those who ask.

25th day O Allah, on this day, make me among those who love Your friends, and hate Your enemies, following the way of Your last Prophet, O the Guardian of the hearts of the Prophets.

26th day O Allah, on this day. make my efforts worthy of approval, and my sins forgiven, my deeds accepted, my faults hidden, O the best of those who hear.

27th day O Allah, on this day, bestow on me the blessings of the night of Qadr, change my affairs from (being) difficult to (being) easy, accept my apologies, and lessen my sins and burdens, O the most kind with His upright servants.

28th day O Allah, on this day, grant me a share in its nawafil (recommended prayers), honour me by attending to my problems, make closer the means to approach You, from all the means, O One who is not preoccupied by the requests of the beseechers.

29th day O Allah, on this day, cover me with Your mercy, grant me in it success and protection, purify my heart from the darkness, of false accusations, O the Merciful to His believing servants.

30th day O Allah, on this day, make my fast worthy of appreciation and acceptance, according to what pleases You, and pleases the Messenger, the branches being strengthened by the roots, for the sake of our leader, Muhammad, and his purified family. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds.

Chapter 4

The Noble Quran

The Quran is the word of Allah. It brings the universal message of Islam for mankind. The Quran was sent by Allah to the Prophet Muhammad SAW, through the angel Jibraeel. It is in Arabic. It was first revealed to him in the month of Ramadhan in Layl atul Qadr, the Night of Grandeur. Its sweetness of speech fills the hearts with peace.

The Quran is the everlasting miracle of the Holy Prophet. Sent down by Allah as a miracle the Quran remains a miracle even today. It will remain so for ever.

When people first heard the words of the Quran, they were amazed at its beauty. It sounds so beautiful. Even today it still overwhelms us. No one can bring even one sentence or verse like it. Allah’s gift to mankind , the Quran is full of knowledge on every topic. A complete code of life, the Quran teaches us the way to happiness. It was sent to explain to the people, the religion of Allah, Islam, based on justice.

The Quran is the last Revealed book from Allah. The other scriptures:Torah, Injeel and Zaboor and the Sahifa of Hadhrat Ibraheem were also all revealed during the month of Ramadhan. The Quran is most up to date and the only one to remain unchanged. It remains in its original form, exactly as it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

The Quran was arranged and written in the form of a book during the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Imam Ali (AS) said “During the revelation of  the Quran there was no chapter, verse, sentence, phrase, word or letter that was revealed, which the Prophet did not recite to me and made me recite and then dictate to me. I wrote it in its proper place as ordered.”

Titles of the Quran

Kitab (Book).

Hikma (Wisdom)

Haq (Truth)

Furqan (Criteria)

Rahma (Mercy)

Noor (Light)

Shifa (a Healing)

Huda (Guide)

Khayr (Goodness)

Mubeen, (making things manifest)

Majeed (Glorious)

The Quran teaches us the rights of Allah towards us: faith in Him, the belief that He is the One and Only. We must obey His commands and submit to His laws through following His Apostle Muhammad (SAW). We should obey the Prophet and the Imams for they are the representatives of Allah.

The Quran gives us Ahkaam (Rules), and teaches us Aqlaaq (Good Behaviour). When we ponder over its verses with guidance from the Ahlul Bayt, we get nearer to Allah. Islam is a complete code of life and the Quran guides us to mould our life according to our Creator’s commands.

Dua: O Allah let me grow used to reciting Your ayaat (verses of the Quran) through your mercy.

Chapter 5

Reciting the Quran

We should be clean before we can touch the words of the Quran. We should not touch the words of the Quran without wudhu.

Seek protection from Shaitan before you begin reading the Quran. Say Aauzubillahi minash Shaitanir Rajeem.

Recite with a beautiful voice. The Holy Prophet (SAW) says: “Give beauty to the Quran with your voices.” Our fourth Imam Zain ul Abidin (AS) used to recite the Quran so beautifully that people would stop and listen to him as they passed his house in Madinah.

Don't just read, listen too. You can listen to CDs of the Quran. When you hear the Quran being recited, listen to it and remain silent so that mercy may be shown to you.

Ask Allah to guide you when you read the Quran. Interact with the Quran. Be excited and hopeful when you read ayats of mercy. Be fearful when you read about Hellfire and seek refuge in Allah. He is talking to you, so pay attention. Make sure you understand what you read.

Dua: Rabbi zidni ilmaa (Sura Taha: Verse 114) My Lord, increase me in knowledge.

Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Raheem, is the first ayat (verse) of the first sura of the Quran: al Fatihah. It means “In the name of Allah, the All-Beneficent, the All-Merciful. Allah begins His speech with His own name. Allah has sent the Quran to guide us and guidance begins with the name of Allah, the Almighty. We learn that the perfect way of starting all talk and action is to start in the name of Allah.

This verse (ayat) is repeated 114 times in the Quran and comes at the start of every chapter except Sura al-Baraat (Tauba). This ayat comes twice in Sura Naml, when the Prophet Sulaiman (AS) begins his letter using these words.

You must read this verse aloud when you say your namaz. When we say “Bismillah” we are praying to Allah to help us complete the task with success. We show that we obey Allah and take only Allah as our master.

We rely on Him and know that He is Ever Living and All-Knowing. We know that the Beneficent and the Merciful Allah will not deny us His mercy. Allah is the greatest name of the All-Mighty, the All Powerful, the All Knowing. The word Allah stands for the greatest name (ism azam), the one perfect total of all that is good and excellent. Rahman is for the Mercy shown by Allah to all His creatures. Raheem is the special Mercy of Allah for the believers.

Recite Bismillah when you start reciting the Quran, when you begin a journey, when you start eating a meal, when you read a new sura, when you do your homework. Our fifth Imam Muhammad Baqir (AS) said that this ayat should be recited at the start of every big or small work, so that it may be blessed.

Chapter 6

Selected Suras

Allah himself has divided His speech in various parts, each part is called a chapter (Sura). The Holy Quran has 114 Suras. All except Sura al Baraat (Tauba) begin with Bismillahir Rahman ir Raheem. Some suras were revealed in Makkah, some in Madina. Some suras were revealed partly in Makkah and partly in Madina.

Whenever an ayat (verse) was revealed, the Holy Prophet would ask Imam Ali (AS) to write it down, then he would show where the ayat should be placed in which sura. The whole of the Quran was compiled into a book during the time of the Prophet. Many people also memorised it.

Sura e Fatiha, (The Opening) Also called Sura e Hamd, it is the first sura of the Holy Quran. We recite this sura in every salat, every day. This sura has seven ayats (verses). We are taught through its verses to glorify Allah with His praise, to pledge that we worship and serve only Him and seek His help. He is the Master of the Day of Judgement, the Lord of the Worlds. We ask for guidance to the Straight path, the path of those who have been given favours; away from those who have gone astray.

Sura e Baqra is the longest Quranic sura with 286 ayats. It was revealed in Madina. It begins with Alif Laam Meem, A L M, letters called huroofe muqta-aat;the letter symbols, the meaning of which is known only to Allah, the Holy Prophet and the Holy Imams. Verses 255-257 known as Ayatul Kursi tell us of the Might and Power of Allah. We recite them to ask for His protection.

Sura e Yaseen has 83 ayats. It was revealed at Makkah. It is one of the most important chapters of the Holy Quran. It has been called the heart of the Quran. Yaseen is one of the names of the Holy Prophet. Reading this sura brings us Allah’s mercy and blessings.

Surat- al Asr (Time) This sura was revealed in Makkah. It has three ayats. Imam Jafar Sadiq (AS) said that the word Asr stands for the Twelfth Imam Mahdi (AS). Only those who benefit from the teachings of the Mahdi and do good deeds will be guided. Others who reject him and the Holy Prophet, are at a loss.

Sura e Kauthar (Abundance) was revealed at Makkah. It is the shortest sura in the Quran. Kauthar stands for Bibi Fatima (AS). The Holy Prophet(SAW) was taunted by his enemies that he had no one to inherit him. Allah promises him abundant blessings through his daughter Fatima.

Sura e Touheed, also called Sura e Ikhlas, has four ayats. This sura was revealed in Makkah and is about the Oneness of Allah. Reading this sura is like reading a third of the Quran.

Sura e Qadr (Grandeur) This sura has five ayats. It was revealed at Makkah. It speaks about the Night of Destiny. The Holy Quran was sent down in it to the Holy Prophet. Allah sends down Angels on this Night to the Imam of the time with His Orders.

Dua: O Allah, reward Prophet Muhammad (SAW) for your messages which he delivered, with the best of Your rewards.

Chapter 7

Stories from Quran

The Holy Quran contains the best of stories. All the stories that are in the Quran are true stories. Some of them are just amazing. Learn from the stories that are in the Holy Quran, for each story guides us and teaches us.

There are stories about prophets like Hadhrat Adam (AS) , Hadhrat Moosa (AS) and Hadhrat Ibraheem (AS). We learn about the birth of Hadhrat Eesa (AS) and the youth of Hadhrat Yousuf (AS). We are told about the believers sleeping in the Cave and the ant which warned others in the Valley of Ants. The Quran gives details about the life of the Prophet Muhammad SAW and events praising his Holy Ahlul Bayt (AS) “O Fire, be cool and safe for Ibraheem!” (21:69) Prophet Ibraheem (AS) was sent by Allah to guide people to be good. For many years he tried his best to teach the people about the Almighty Lord. But the king of his time, called Namrud, who was wicked and cruel, decided to throw Ibraheem into the fire.

Namrud’s men collected a huge pile of firewood and lit a huge fire. When the fire was lit, the flames rose high. A catapult was made for Ibraheem (AS) to sit in and he was thrown into the fire.

The angels from the heavens wanted to help. Everyone thought that Ibraheem (AS) would be burnt to ashes in the blazing fire. Ibraheem (AS) was ready to accept whatever Allah willed for him. Allah said “O Fire! be cool and safe for Ibraheem.” The fire did not burn anymore and had no effect on Ibraheem.  He came out unhurt. Everyone was amazed. They realised that the Lord of Ibraheem was the true Lord. But some stubborn and proud people still refused to believe.

The Amazing Shirt of Prophet Yousuf

Prophet Yousuf (AS) through Allah’s favour had become the emir. When his brothers recognised who he was they were ashamed and asked him to forgive them. He said, “there will be no punishment for you today. Allah will forgive you and He is the most Merciful. Take this shirt of mine and put it upon my father’s face; he will regain his eyesight.”

As the caravan set off, their father, Hadhrat Yaqoob who was many, many, miles away yet, said “ I smell the fragrance of Yousuf.”

Soon they brought him the good news. The shirt was put on his face and he regained his eyesight. He could see again. Hadhrat Yaqoob said “Did I not tell you! I know from Allah what you do not know.” They asked him to pray that Allah forgives them. Together they travelled to Egypt and were re-united with Prophet Yousuf (AS) who welcomed them with open arms.

His parents and his eleven brothers fell in sajda to thank Allah for uniting them with Prophet Yousuf (AS) .”This is the fulfillment of my dream of long ago” , he said to his father.

Do not be afraid, We will return him to you! The king of Egypt was called Firaun, who was wicked and cruel. He ordered that all babies born to them be killed. When Hadhrat Moosa (AS) was born, his mother was afraid that he might be killed by Firaun. She was guided by Allah “to nurse him then when you fear for him, cast him into the river.” So she put him in a wooden box and left it to float away on the river Nile. Part of the river Nile passed through the palace garden of Firaun. The box with the baby in it floated through the stream into the palace garden. Firaun’s wife Aasiya picked up the box and was so thrilled that she decided to bring him up as her son.

Allah had promised Hadhrat Moosa’s mother, who was upset and afraid, that He will restore her baby to her. She sent his sister to follow the floating box. After baby Moosa was picked up, he was hungry but refused to be nursed by anyone. The sister of Hadhrat Moosa (AS) said to the people at the palace, “I can help you to find someone to look after the baby.” She brought her mother to the Palace. Prophet Moosa and his mother were re-united. She was comforted and knew that Allah’s promise is true.

Dua: Rabbanaa laa tajalnaa ma-al qaumiz zalimeen ( Sura Araaf: v. 47) Our Lord, do not put us with the unjust people.

Chapter 8

Miracle of Quran

The Holy Quran is indeed a miracle. Its knowledge on every topic is amazing. Its challenge that there is none like it has stood the test of time. Its details are accurate. Its wonder is everlasting. The style is unique. Its structure is wonderful.

The Quran establishes rules for mankind with regard to every aspect of life. It guides us through relating stories from the past. It reveals mysteries and predicts events in the future. The Quran is a healing and a cure. It brings peace to the heart and soul.

Even when the Quran mentions that one thing is like another, even the numbers of  times these are mentioned are equal. The Quran has been called Meezan, the accurate scale.

For example, the number of times the word man appears in the Quran is 24 and number of times the word woman appears is also 24.

Man 24. Woman 24

Dunya 115 Aakhirat 115

Malaika 88 Shayatin 88

Life 145 Death 145

People 50 Messengers 50

Zakat 32. Barakah 32

Hardship 114 Patience 114

Reward 107 Action 107

Paradise77 Hell77

Love 83 Obedience 83

Eemaan 25 Kufr 25

Naas 368 Rusul 368

The Earth takes 365 days to go round the Sun. The word “yaum” (day) occurs 365 times in the Quran. The word “shahr” (month) is repeated 12 times and sa’a (hour) is repeated 24 times.

Have a look how many times the following words appear:

Sea 32, Land 13

Sea + land = 32+13= 45

Sea = 32/45*100=71.11111111%

Land = 13/45*100 = 28.88888889%

Sea + land =100.00%

These are the exact proportions of land and sea on the Earth.

The Miracles of the Quran will never end.

Dua: O Allah bring to our hearts, the understanding of the Quran’s wonders.

Chapter 9

Quran and Ahlul Bayt

The Holy Prophet declared: “I am leaving two weighty (precious) things (Thaqalain) among you. So long as you hold fast to them you will never go astray: These two valuable things consist of the Book of Allah and my progeny, my Ahlul Bayt. These two shall never separate from each other until they reach me (on) the fountain of Kausar”.

This hadees shows us that the Holy Quran was there in the life of the Prophet as a complete book. It was in the hands of the people. They were told to hold fast to both the Quran and the Ahlul Bayt, not any others. The Ahlul Bayt will be always with the Quran and the Quran with its correct meaning will be only with the Ahlul Bayt.

The Ahlul Bayt carry as much weight in the eyes of Allah as the Noble Quran. Just as the Quran is true from beginning to end, so are the Ahlul Bayt perfectly true and sincere guides. Just as it is the duty of every Muslim to obey the commands of the Quran, so must the Ahlul Bayt be followed by all.  The Holy Quran is full of knowledge. So are the Ahlul Bayt. The Holy Quran is light. So are the Ahlul Bayt. The Holy Quran is pure. So are the Ahlul Bayt.

The Holy Quran is guidance. So are the Ahlul Bayt.

Who are the Ahlul Bayt?

We know by the ayat of Tatheer (33:33) that the Ahlul Bayt are none other than Fatima, her father, her husband and her sons. They are kept pure by Allah himself.

The ayat of Mawadat (42:23) makes it wajib on the Muslims to love the Ahlul bayt through obeying them. Allah and His angels recite salawat on the Prophet and he asks believers to recite salawat too. (33:56) Without salawat for the Prophet and his Ahlul Bayt, prayers are not valid. The Holy Prophet said, “Say, Allahumma swalle ala Muhammadin wa Aaley Muhammad.” The Ahlul Bayt are the best of the Creation, Khairul Barriya (98:7) They are the Ahlul Zikr (16:43), and the people who have been given knowledge by Allah Himself, the Rasiqoona fil ilm (3:7).

The Holy Prophet said "Ali is with the Quran, and the Quran is with Ali.” Imam Ali (AS) said “Ask me about the Book of Allah, because there is no Ayah but that I know whether it was revealed at night or in daytime, on the plain or in the mountain." He explained that Allah “has  placed us with the Holy Quran and placed the Holy Quran with us. We will never part company with the Quran nor will the Quran part company with us.” The Quran gives us rules and the Ahlul Bayt show us how to put them into practice. They are the practical examples of the Book of Allah. The Ahlul Bayt took great care to educate the Muslims and are the true guides after the Prophet.

Imam Ali (AS) spent the whole night explaining the tafseer of just one verse of the Quran to Ibn Abbas in Koofa. The Fadak sermon of Bibi Fatima (AS) shows her expert grasp of the Quran. Imam Hasan (AS), even as an infant, would report to his mother the exact words of the ayat as soon as a verse was recited by his grandfather, the Holy Prophet (SAW). The close link between the Quran and Imam Husain (AS) was seen, when people heard his head (after martyrdom) reciting the verses from Sura e Kahf in Koofa. Bibi Fizza, the maidservant in the Holy household, for 20 years did not speak even a single word except using the verses of the Quran.

Imam Jafar Sadiq (AS) said when we check whether a hadees is true or not check it with the Quran. “If it agrees with the verses of Quran then it is true, otherwise it is not.” Imam Reza (AS) always gave examples from the Holy Quran whenever he spoke to people. Alas after the life of the Prophet, the enemies of Islam denied the link to the Ahlul Bayt and tried to interpret the Quran in any way they wanted. They even tried to use the Quran itself to justify their anti-Quranic rule. When the 12th Imam Mahdi (AS) re appears, he will establish the laws of the Quran throughout the world.

Chapter 10

Bibi Khadija (AS)

Why do we remember Bibi Khadija (AS) in this holy month?

Bibi Khadija (AS) died on the 10th day in the month of Ramadhan. She was the only wife of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as long as she lived. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: " The four greatest women of the world are: Khadija, Fatima, Maryam and Aasiya."

Bibi Khadija (AS) was the first to hear from the Prophet that Allah had chosen him to be His Last Messenger. He had been praying in the cave on Mount Hira, when the angel Jibraeel appeared and asked him to read, Iqra bi ismi Rabbik. He had been told to begin preaching the message of Islam.

Bibi Khadija (AS) was the first to believe in Islam. Imam Ali (AS) and she were the first to declare that Allah is One, and that Muhammad (SAW) is His Messenger. She was the first person with Imam Ali (AS) to join the Holy Prophet in salat. Bibi Khadija (AS) was the mother of Bibi Fatima (AS), the only daughter of the Holy Prophet. She gave birth to two sons, Qasim and Abdullah, but they died as infants.

Bibi Khadija (AS) was the daughter of Khuwalyd, who was a successful trader. She was so rich that she was known as the Princess of Arabia. The people called her Tahira, the Pure One. She was very generous and used to feed and clothe the poor. She helped many Muslims and protected them from the enemies of Islam. Bibi Khadija (AS) was the first Mother of Believers. When forced to leave the city of Makkah and live in a valley, Bibi Khadija (AS) stood by Prophet Muhammad (SAW), her husband to share the hardships. For three long years, she had to suffer hunger and thirst. But she never complained and was always cheerful. When she returned to her house in Makkah, all her wealth was gone.

Bibi Khadija (AS) fell ill. Her seven year old daughter Fatima was by her side. She hugged her daughter. She died on the tenth day of the month of Ramadhan. Her death filled the Prophet’s heart with deep pain and sorrow.

She was buried in one of the Prophet’s own shirts. She had given all she had for Islam. He himself dug the grave and lay in it for a few moments. He smoothed the earth on her grave after the burial. She was buried at Hajun in the outskirts of Makkah where Hadhrat Abu Talib AS (Imam Ali’s father) had been buried only weeks before. So sad was Prophet Muhammad (SAW) that he called it the "Year of Sorrow; ( Aam ul Huzn).”

Her daughter, Bibi Fatima (AS) cried “Where is my mother?” The angel Jibraeel brought a message from Allah to the Prophet, “Your Lord commands you to inform Fatima that He sends His blessings upon her and says your mother is in a house of brocade, its corners are made of gold and its poles are of rubies. It is between the houses of Aasiya and Maryam.”

Even during his life in Madina, he would often remember her. He said: "She believed in me when no one else did; she accepted Islam when people rejected me; and she helped and comforted me when there was no one else to lend me a helping hand. Allah granted me children by her. How can I forget her?" Jannatul Moalla, before demolition

Our salams to Hadhrat Khadija (AS), the wife of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the mother of Bibi Fatima (AS). Peace and blessings on the Ummul Momineen, the mother of the believers.

Chapter 11

Imam Hasan (AS)

Why is the 15th of Ramadhan special for us?

We celebrate the birthday of our second Imam Hasan (AS) on the 15th of Ramadhan. He was the first grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the noble son of Bibi Fatima (AS) and Imam Ali (AS).

Imam Hasan (AS) spent the first seven years of his life under the love and care of his grandfather. Imam Hasan (AS) and his brother Imam Husain (AS) resembled the Messenger of God more than anyone else. The Prophet said: “Truly, Hasan and Husain are my fragrant roses from this world”.

“Hasan and Husain are the Masters of the youth in paradise” “Hasan and his brother Husain are Imams "whether they sit or stand". Imam Hasan (AS) is one of five persons in the Hadith e Kisa (Cloak). He was the first of the Prophet's family to enter the Yemeni cloak after Prophet Muhammad. On the day of Mubahila, he walked hand in hand with his grandfather to prove the truth of Islam.

Even as a child he would not only listen to the Holy Prophet reciting the Quran in the masjid, to the people; but would  repeat the exact ayat to his mother, Bibi Fatima (AS). When the Holy Prophet asked his daughter how she knew the ayat exactly, before he told her himself, she replied, “My son Hasan heard you and repeated the words to me.” The Prophet (SAW) with Imam Hasan (AS) on his shoulder said “O. Allah, I love him, so love him”

Imam Hasan (AS) right from his childhood was aware of the rules of Islam. One day he and his brother Imam Husain (AS) saw an old man do his Wudhu. They realized that the old man was not doing his Wudhu correctly, but did not want to tell him directly. Perhaps the old man would feel hurt.

Sitting next to him, they started to do the Wudhu. They asked him to watch them. The boys performed their Wudhu one after the other. When they had finished, the old man realized that the Wudhu done by both the boys was correct. He realised his own mistake because h e had been doing Wudhu in the wrong way. Turning to Imam Hasan (a.s.) and Imam Hussain (a.s.), he said, "The Wudhu done by you is correct. I am grateful that you chose to guide me in such a beautiful manner."

Once, a female slave brought a beautiful flower, which had a wonderful fragrance and presented it to her master Imam Hassan al-Mujtaba (AS). He was so happy that he set her free. Someone asked: "Master! You have set her free for such a simple reason? The Imam replied, "Allah, the Almighty says in the Holy Quran: 'When you are greeted with a salute, greet with a better one than it, or return it'. (4:86).

Chapter 12

Battle of Badr

After Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the Muslims left Makkah and came to live in Madina, his enemies still did not leave them alone to live in peace. They wanted to put an end to Islam. So they gathered a huge army and attacked the Muslims. Abu Jahl with 1000 soldiers came to a place called Badr, which was between Makkah and Madina.

Did you know that the Battle of Badr was fought on 17th of Ramadhan 2 AH?

It was the most important battle for Islam. The Holy Prophet took with him 313 brave Muslim soldiers. Fear filled the hearts of many. It was a test of faith.

The night before the battle, the Prophet spent in prayer and dua. As the battle started he prayed for victory. He organized the troops and gave orders.

Imam Ali (AS) was the hero of the battle. Though only 20 years old, he was the bravest of all and carried the Banner of the Prophet, the banner of Islam. The sword of Ali (AS) was seen in action against the enemies of Islam. Soon there was a general battle. Muslims now fought with great fervour and there was chaos in the enemy ranks.

It was a great victory for Islam.

Dua : O Allah guide me to do good deeds in this month.

Chapter 13

Imam Ali (AS)

What happened in Koofa during the month of Ramadhan in 40 A.H.?

Imam Ali (AS) was attacked and struck by a poisoned sword as he led Fajr prayers on the morning of the 19th of Ramadhan. It was the month of Ramadhan in 40 AH in the city of Koofa.

Imam Ali (AS) had spent the night in the house of his daughter Umm Kulsoom (AS). He spent the night in prayer and dua and reciting the Holy Quran. The sky was overcast and it was a dark night. Imam Ali (AS) knew his end was near.

Soon it was dawn and a soft breeze blew across the sand, but the sky seemed to shed tears. The geese and ducks clung to  his cloak, crying. “Remember to feed them” he said to his daughter, as he left for the Masjid-e Koofa.

Imam Ali (AS) arrived at the mosque, woke up those who were sleeping as it was nearly time for Fajr, the dawn prayers on the 19th of Ramadhan. He stood in the arch (mihrab) and started his namaz. As he raised his head from the sajda, Ibn Muljim struck his poisoned sword on Imam Ali (AS) ‘s head.

“Fuztu bi Rabbi Kaaba” said the Imam “I have succeeded, by the Lord of the Kaaba.” The wound was deep and blood flowed. It was a terrible sight. The Imam was carried home.

The 19th day passed in great pain. A doctor came to examine the wound but the cut was so deep that the poison had gone into the blood. On the 20th day of Ramadhan, people came to see him. His head had been bandaged but the cloth looked yellow as did his pale face. As the night of the 21st Ramadhan passed into the morning, the Imam recited the kalma and breathed his last.

Imam Ali (AS) passed away, leaving orphans and widows in tears. His children, especially the offspring of Bibi Fatima (AS) were left to suffer even more hardship in this world. Imam Ali (AS) was laid to rest in Najaf. Imam Hasan (AS) our second Imam led the funeral prayer. Imam Hasan (AS) after the burial of the Imam said “You have assassinated a holy and respected person in the night on which the Holy Quran was revealed.”

Allahuma laan qatalatal Ammerul momineen. O Allah curse the killers of the Commander of the Faithful.

Chapter 14

Layl atul Qadr

What does Layl atul Qadr mean? Layl means night. Qadr means dignity, grandeur, honour, destiny. Layl atul Qadr means the Night of Grandeur, the Night of Destiny.The month of Ramadhan contains the Night of Qadr, which is so holy that it is better than a thousand months. It is a night full of blessings. Only Allah knows the value of this night.

This is the night when the Holy Quran was revealed through the Holy Prophet Muhammad SAW for his followers. The Quran which is the guiding light was revealed in two ways:

The whole Quran was revealed at the same time on the Prophet in the Night of Qadr (anzalna)

Verses of the Quran were revealed in the form of Wahi over 23 years to the Holy Prophet (nazalna) The entire Quran came to him during Ramadhan while its unfolding which he narrated to his followers took place over 23 years.

The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. During this night the angels and Jibraeel come down by the permission of their Lord with every command (Amr). They come to the Sahib-ul-Amr, who receives this Amr.

Imam Ali (AS) said to Ibn Abbas “The Night of Qadr comes every year and in this night the angels descend with the Amr for the whole year and for this Amr after the Holy Prophet are the Sahib Amr (the Imam of the Time).” When Ibn Abbas asked who these are; he replied,“It is me and the 11 Imams from my progeny.”This night is the night of peace (Salaam). It is peaceful until the rising of the dawn.

The Quran is Peace itself. It distinguishes between the good and evil and shows the path of eternal Peace and Bliss to all Mankind forever. Therefore we must honour this special time of blessing by spending it in prayer and worship, just like the holy Prophet and the 12 Imams did. During this special night,

Take a bath

Pray salat

Do the amal of Quran

Recite the holy Quran, especially Sura e Qadr

Ask Allah to forgive your sins and fulfill your desires.

Stay awake till Fajr During the month of Ramadhan, in the night of Qadr, we declare our loyalty to both the Quran and Ahlul Bayt. We place the Book of Allah on our head and take the name of the 14 Masoomeen. They link us to Allah and are the path to His mercy so we pray to Allah through their names for our needs and desires. We pray especially for the return of our last Imam Mahdi (AS) to guide us.

The Night of Qadr is one of the odd nights in the last ten nights of Ramadhan. According to the holy Imams it is either the 19th, 21st or 23rd night.

On the 23rd night we should also read Sura Ankaboot (The Spider), Sura Room (Rome) and Sura Dukhan (The Smoke).

The example of those that take guardians other than Allah is like the example of a spider; that takes a home and indeed the frailest of homes is the home of a spider, had they known. (29:41)

Dua: O Allah, send blessings on Muhammad (SAW) and his progeny and treat me in the way suitable to you (as a Merciful Lord), not the way I deserve.

Chapter 15

Eid Mubarak

As the month of Ramadhan draws to a close we feel sad. The best of months is leaving us. We pray to Allah that we get the reward of pardon through His Mercy. Many people wonder why we celebrate Eid at the end of Ramadhan. How can we be happy that such a great month of Allah, with all its blessings, has gone away?

We celebrate Eid because we are thankful to Allah for giving us the chance and the strength to carry out His commands in the blessed month.

When the new moon is seen in the sky it is the day of fast breaking. It is a time of joy and festival. We ask Allah to accept  our good deeds and keep us away from sin. We ask Allah to bless Muhammad (SAW) and his Holy Ahlul Bayt and grant our prayers through them.  Imam Ali (AS) said, “Eid is for him whose fasts have been accepted by Allah, and whose worship has been appreciated by Allah. Every day in which you do not disobey Allah is a day of Eid.”

Eid in the holy household Of Bibi Fatima (AS)

In Madina, during the time of the Holy Prophet, on the eve of Eid, Imam Hasan (AS) and Imam Husain (AS), both still young children, came to their mother, Bibi Fatima (AS) and said, “Tomorrow is the day of Eid. Where are our new clothes ?”

Bibi Fatima (AS) did not want to disappoint her children. So she said “My dears, if the tailor brings them, you will get them in the morning.” At night she prayed to Allah whose blessing and mercy she had total faith in.”Fatima has promised new clothes to her innocents. Oh Allah, let not the words of Fatima fail.”

Early next morning there was a knock on the door. A voice said “O Ahlul Bayt of the Holy Prophet. I am the tailor with clothes for Hasan and Husain. “

Bibi Fatima (AS) bent down to thank Allah for answering her prayer. Umme Salma, wife of the Holy Prophet, says “I saw Hasan and Husain with the Holy Prophet in such new clothes which I had never seen before. I asked him, where the wonderful clothes of his grandsons had come. The Holy Prophet replied, “They are the heavenly garments received for them"

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) then carried both his grandsons on his shoulders as he went to lead the Eid prayer. Both held his hair in their tiny hands as if they were reins of a camel. People were amazed to see this scene and someone said to the children “What an excellent ride you have!” The Holy Prophet turned to the man and said “Why don’t you say, how excellent the riders are?"

The Messenger of Allah has shown his own love and regard for Imam Hasan and Imam Husain. He is the best example for us to copy in our life. We should love them too.

On the day of Eid we should thank Allah for His Mercy and blessings. Eid is the day when Muslims gather and celebrate. Celebrating Eid unites Muslims. Eid, is a day of good deeds, a time for treats. We must do our duty, pay our Fitra. We should help the needy. We should say our special Eid salat together with the rest of the community. We must share our happiness with each other through gifts and prayers. We should say Eid Mubarak to one another. We can wear new clothes and eat delicious food. Some of us may like to put henna on our hands. We can go out to meet our friends and family to be happy together.

O Allah, we repent to You on the day of fast breaking, which You have appointed for the faithful a festival and a joy

So accept it from us and be pleased with us.

Chapter 16

Ramadhan Resolutions

Read the Holy Quran every day. Add to your knowledge about Allah’s book. Recite all your prayers in time.

Think what the words you are reciting mean.

Say Bismillah whenever you start something new. Be helpful to others, your brother/sister, Mom and Dad, your friends.

Remember to thank Allah for all His gifts.

Share your things and be happy about it.

Try to be in Wudu through the day. Learn a Sura you don’t know yet.

Train yourself so you can fast during this holy month.

Chapter 17

Glossary

Ayat: verse revealed in the Quran: there are 6236 ayats.

Huroof e Muqatiaat: initial letters made up of 14 Arabic letters which begin 29 Suras of the Quran. What these letters mean are known to only the Prophet and the Holy Ahlul Bayt.

Sura chapter of the Quran There are 114 suras in the Quran.

Ruku: like a paragraph or section with 7 to 12 ayats. The place of Ruku is shown by the letter Ain.

Juz/ Sipara: Part; there are 30 juz, and each juz is divided into 4 parts.

Sajda At 4 places in the Quran, it is essential (wajib) to do sajda.

Qaari: one who recites the Quran

Haafiz: one who has memorised the whole of the Quran.

Tafseer: the outward explanation of the verses of the Quran.

Taweel: the deeper, inner meaning of the Quran, interpreting the hidden meanings.

Tilawat: Recitation of the Quran

Niyyat: intention that we make to seek nearness to Allah. Sehri: meal before dawn that is eaten before dawn.

Iftar: breaking of the fast at dusk. The dua we read at the time of iftar is

Chapter 18

Quran Quiz

What is the Quran?

How many Suras are in the Quran?

Who was it revealed to?

What was the first ayat that was sent on the Mount Hira?

Which ayat is found 114 times in the Quran?

What must you do before touching the words of the Quran?

Which is the longest Sura?

Which Sura has only 3 ayats?

What does Layl atul Qadr mean?

Why is Ramadhan called the month of the Quran?

Which sura do you need to recite in every namaz?

Chapter 19

Find out More

What were the ababeel?

What did the Ant say to its friends when Prophet Sulaiman (AS) was passing by?

What happened to Hadhrat Younus (AS) when he left his people?

What did Prophet Eesa (AS) say to the people when he was still a baby?

Who built the Kaaba?

Which ayat was revealed on the day of Ghadeer when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) declared that Imam Ali (AS) was his successor?

How many Sura names can you find in the Wordsearch?

Yaseen

Yousuf

Fatiha

Anfal

Noor

Ankabut

Fatir

Waqia

Mulk

Muhammad

Hud

Kausar

Iqlas

Nisa

Naas

Qadr

Dahr

Find out which of these suras were revealed in Makkah, which in Madina.

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Food for the mind

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - Introduction

Chapter 2 - Fasting in Ramadhan

Chapter 3 - Duas for Ramadhan

Chapter 4 - The Noble Quran

Chapter 5 - Reciting the Quran

Chapter 6 - Selected Suras

Chapter 7 - Stories from Quran

Chapter 8 - Miracle of Quran

Chapter 9 - Quran and Ahlul Bayt

Chapter 10 - Bibi Khadija (AS)

Chapter 11 - Imam Hasan (AS)

Chapter 12 - Battle of Badr

Chapter 13 - Imam Ali (AS)

Chapter 14 - Layl atul Qadr

Chapter 15 - Eid Mubarak

Chapter 16 - Ramadhan Resolutions

Chapter 17 - Glossary

Chapter 18 - Quran Quiz

Chapter 19 - Find out More