Saturday, 27 July 2013

[www.keralites.net] 22 Things to Keep

 

You are what you eat -and what you don't eat. Similarly, life depends on
what you keep and what you don't keep. There are many things in life
that people may keep, but only a few are truly worth keeping. Here is a
list of what to keep (and how) for a brighter, happier and more
fulfilling life.

1) Keep calm. Life
can be unnerving and if you don't make an effort to keep collected and
focused, you could easily lose your cool. Take regular, conscious deep
breaths to calm and center yourself.

2) Keep your chin up.
Not only is it good for your posture and diminishes your double chin,
it also helps you maintain an "I can handle it" attitude. By keeping
your chin up, you can keep your head above water.

3) Keep your spirits high.
Always maintain a positive and joyful attitude. Remember that no one
can perk you up like yourself. Keep your spirits high when the going
gets rough by focusing on your dreams and counting your blessings.

4) Keep your word.
The true measure of a man is if he keeps his word.
Honorable and trustworthy is the man who stands by what he says and
promises. It is important to think well before speaking because once a
word is uttered and released into the universe, its vibrations could no
longer be erased.

5) Keep in time with your inner drummer.
Don't be swayed by others into following the confusing beat of their
drums. Although it is sometimes necessary to adjust to the pace of
others, it is best to keep in step with your personal rhythm and to
dance to your own music.

6) Keep in touch with the child in you. The
source of creativity in your life is that little child within you. He
questions, he marvels, he imagines and invents. Stay in touch with him,
and be young and creative for life!

7) Keep abreast of the times.
The world is moving so fast. Know what's happening, what's in style,
what's au courant, what's relevant, what's important. Learn the hottest
trends and the latest in technology. Don't be caught in a time warp or
you'll be left behind.

8) Keep in shape.
Your shape shows your state of health. Your body is the vessel that you
journey through life in. Keep it healthy and strong. Don't be one of
those people who say, "I'm in shape; round is a shape!"

9) Keep your mouth shut.
People talk too much. We language ourselves to our own destruction and
defeat. Know when to talk and when to shut up. Avoid being too verbose.
Oftentimes, silence speaks more eloquently than words.

10) Keep good friends.
Good friends are hard to find. Nurture friendships that make your
plight through life easier, more wonderful and meaningful. Truly poor is
the man who has no good friends.

11) Keep great memories, not heavy objects.
In the very end, good memories of life are what we will be left with,
not jewels and riches that we can't bring when we finally go. Live each
moment beautifully. Linked together, these magical moments create
a magnificent life.

12) Keep a diary.
Writing a journal is therapeutic. Record the important events in your
life, your dreams and aspirations, even your failures and
disappointments. When you trace back events in your life, you are bound
to learn lessons from them as well as find great inspiration and
strength.

13) Keep saying grace and thanks.
Blessed is he who says grace before he eats and gives thanks for all
the gifts he receives daily. Maintain a thankful attitude and focus on
your blessings instead of disappointments.

14) Keep on moving forward.
The universe moves forward in time. Don't get stuck in yesterday; make
an effort to move
ahead to a
better life. Drop those unnecessary pieces of material and emotional
baggage that weigh you down and keep you from flying to your loftiest
dreams.

15) Keep out of danger.
He who exposes himself to danger finds it. Don't court danger; avoid
it. As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Look
out for number one (that's you!), and always stay safe and sound.

16) Keep up the good work.
Success is built upon success. The more you do, the more you achieve;
the more you achieve, the better you get at doing it. Make success a
habit by keeping up the good work.

17) Keep young.
Do everything in your power to stay strong, supple
and youthful.
Think young; feel young. A wise man once said "It is never too late to
be what you might have been." Remember that age is a number and that
youth is an attitude.

18) Keep on Enjoying.
Life is a dance through space and time. Embellish whatever life
plays for you with your own fresh orchestration and creative
choreography. Be excited in your heart and keep your feet light with
happiness.

19) Keep on loving.
Love is the reason we were created. Love diminishes when hoarded but
multiplies when shared. Give it and feel it overflow in your heart. Love
cures all sadness, pain and sorrow. Lonely is he who does not give love
away and therefore gets none in return.

20) Keep on dreaming.
Most men, even if they are young, are dead - that is, if they can no
longer dream. Our dreams are what keep us young and alive; they give us
that sparkle in our eyes. Our dreams keep us going even while everything
around us says, "Stop."

21) Keep on hoping.
Never lose hope. Tomorrow will be another day that will bring new hope
and greater blessings. Keep faith in the abundance of the universe and
the mystery and perfection of life. Hope for nothing but the best and
that's what you will be granted.

22) Keep on believing. Belief is the mother of reality. What you believe becomes your truth. Believe in yourself, believe in the magic of the
universe, believe in the power of your
dreams. And most of all, believe you can do it, so you can have all your heart's desires!
These You Must Not Keep

1) Don't keep up with the Joneses.
Just because your neighbor bought a red Ferrari, you, too, must get
one. Don't join the bandwagon and keep away from the "herd mentality."
Too much unhappiness in this world is caused by comparisons - comparing
yourself and trying to measure up to other people. There is really no
need to live up to others' expectations if it would just bring you
inconvenience and misery.

2) Don't keep issues and grudges.
The reason most of us stay miserable is because we keep issues,
grudges, and problems. Detox yourself of complaints and issues that keep
you from being the best that you could be. Try to solve all problems
that beset you; never leave anything unresolved. The questions and
puzzles of life are what make it challenging and exciting.

3) Don't keep resentments and memories of painful experiences.
Life is not a bed of roses so you must learn to let go of negative
feelings and memories of painful experiences. It's hard to go on living
with a heavy heart. Pardon, forgive, forget

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[www.keralites.net] 10 Things That Define A True Professional

 


You may be a brilliant developer, a highly skilled net admin, or a crackerjack DBA — but if you're unprofessional, your career is likely to fall short. Alan Norton offers some attributes to strive for.
________________________________

The term professional is thrown around quite a bit these days, perhaps too much. I do it myself. But what exactly does it mean to be a professional? As you read through the items below, consider how you compare with each trait.

Note: This article is also available as a PDF download.

1: Put customer satisfaction first

Understanding and satisfying your customer's needs are the cornerstones of a successful business. Do what is necessary to meet those needs. After all, without the customer, there is no professional.

You may not view those you work with as your customers, but in many cases, they are. I remember when one of my managers perceived that I was overly stressed. He pulled me aside and sat me down in his office where he told me stories and jokes for the better part of half an hour. He recognized my needs and acted accordingly.

Professionals identify and satisfy their customer's needs.

2: Make expertise your specialty

The very word professional implies that you are an expert. Technical competence is essential in IT.

Become an expert in the skills and tools necessary to do your job.
Always perform to the best of your abilities.
Keep your knowledge up to date.

Professionals know their trade.

3: Do more than expected

Professionals aren't bound by a time clock. They are given wide latitude in their daily self-management. They are expected to manage their time and work habits. Don't abuse the privilege. If you take an hour for personal needs, give back two hours.

The reality is that professionals are expected to exceed the standard 40-hour workweek. There are times when you may be asked to work weekends. You may have to forego a vacation or work 12-hour days to complete an important project. All are part of the job description of most professional positions.

Professionals are expected to produce results. Strive to complete deliverables before their due dates and under budget.

Professionals meet or exceed expectations whenever possible.
But this does not mean that you sacrifice your family life. The idea is that you must manage your work as much as you and produce desirable results.


4: Do what you say and say what you can do

This is one of my favorite sayings especially in view of the fact that talking the talk is so prevalent and walking the walk so rare in this age of sound bites. You should "engage brain" before speaking — can you really do what you are about to say? If you can't, the wizard behind the curtain will eventually be revealed and hard-earned trust can be lost.

Professionals deliver on promises made.

5: Communicate effectively

I go out of my way to patronize a dentist who has excellent communication skills. He takes the time to explain the available options, make recommendations, state the total costs, and promise a date when the work can be completed. I then feel empowered to make the right decisions.

I recently ordered Internet and phone service from the cable company. I told the salesman that the existing cable had been ripped out during a landscaping project. Perhaps I wasn't clear or perhaps the salesman wasn't listening — it doesn't really matter. The message didn't get through and the wrong person was sent to do the installation. As a result, Qwest, not the cable company, got my business. Not only did the commissioned salesman lose his sale, he and his company both looked unprofessional in my eyes.

Resist the urge to blame the customer when communication goes awry. Effective communication is ultimately your responsibility — not your customer's.

Whether verbal or written, professionals communicate clearly, concisely, thoroughly, and accurately.

6: Follow exceptional guiding principles

Appreciate and support those you work with. Practice good manners and proper etiquette. Have high ethical and moral standards. Be honest and fair in all of your dealings with others. Obey the law. These may sound like the attributes of a Boy Scout, but they are basic values that all professionals should follow. Many companies have a document that outlines their operating principles. Have you read yours?

Professionals adhere to high values and principles.

7: Praise your peers not yourself

Respect and acknowledge the talents of your peers. There is nothing more unprofessional and self-serving than telling others how wonderful you are.

Professionals are humble and generous in their praise of others.

8: Share your knowledge

When I was hired at Hughes Aircraft, a second person with similar skills was hired with me. It didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that one of us wasn't going to survive. The competitive nature of the situation was palpable. I am no stranger to the belief that it is not in your best interest to share your knowledge with your associates, AKA the competition.

It is easy to find yourself in that comfortable place with "unique" knowledge. If you are a hoarder of information and are of the opinion that all of the nuts you have squirreled away grant you immutable job security, think again. The harsh reality is that nobody is irreplaceable.

Information isn't a limited resource. Contrary to what some might think, your mind won't be emptied by giving away kernels of wisdom or experience. Think of knowledge as an ocean of facts and not a stream of data. It is possible to share what you know and still keep one step ahead of the competition — simply apply yourself and learn something new daily.

Professionals help their peers and are respected for doing so.

9: Say thank you

I always tried to find a way to thank others for their help. When their help was above and beyond the call of duty, I would buy them a Coke - a testament to the marketing power of Madison Avenue and Mean Joe Greene.

The items I value the most in my personnel file from Hughes Aircraft are two AVOs (Avoid Verbal Orders memos) to my manager from frontline employees. The AVOs thanked me for the support I provided that helped them do their job better.

Silly me — what was I thinking? I was sharing a Coke when I should have been sharing my thanks in a printed internal document to the employee's manager.

Professionals thank others in a meaningful way that most benefits the recipient.

10: Keep a smile on your face and the right attitude in your heart

This has been the hardest item for me to do consistently over my working years. I believed I was lying to myself and the world by smiling when I was miserable or unhappy with an ongoing issue at work.

I now realize it's not dishonest to be pleasant when you are having one of those lousy days. It is in fact thoughtful to care about how your attitude affects those you interact with. Share your unhappiness with your manager only. "Share the misery" is not the mark of a professional.

Professionals are pleasant even during trying times.

The final word

Working with professionals is a pleasure, and I have been fortunate to work with some truly exemplary ones. There have been a few who liked to be treated as professionals without having to work and act like one.

You don't have to look any further than the medical profession to see examples of true professionals. Think back upon those doctors you've liked the most and model your professionalism after theirs.

So, how do you measure up? Don't feel bad if you need some work in one or more areas. Demeanor that is less than professional can lead to an image problem for you and your company. Negative images are hard to shake. Recognize any shortcomings you might have and begin working on your professional image today.

source: unknwon


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[www.keralites.net] 12 Ways To Maximize I'tikaf

 

12 Ways To Maximize I'tikaf

There is no doubt that I'tikaf is a great Sunnah:


Aishah (RA) reported that the Prophet (Salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam): "Used to perform i'tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan until Allah the Mighty Majestic, took him." (Bukhari Muslim)

Abu Said reported that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Whoever makes I`tikaf with me is to make I'tikaf during the last ten [nights]." (Bukhari)

Imam Ahmad said, as was narrated from him by Abu Daawood: "I have not heard from any of the scholars that it is anything other than Sunnah."

Az-Zuhri said: "How strange the Muslims are! They have given up I'tikaf, despite the fact that the Prophet, (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam), never abandoned this practice from the time he came to Madinah until his death."

Nawafil I'tikaf for those who do not sit for the whole 10 days:

If a person cannot sit I'tikaf for the full ten days nights then they should try sit I'thikaf on as many days nights as they possibly can.

They can make intention of doing Nawafil I'tikaf everytime they enter the Masjid so a person will be rewarded for the duration of their stay in the Masjid as long as they did not commit any sins or indulge in idle talk.


I'tikaf for women:


Women can also do I'tikaf in the Masjid if the facilities are available to them as long as they have been given permission by their husbands.

There is a difference of opinion whether or not a women can do I'tikaf at home. The Hanbalis, some Shafi's some Malikis say that a woman can only sit I'tikaf at the Masjid, whereas the Hanafi's, some Shafi's some Malikis say it is permissable for a women to do I'tikaf at a designated place in her home because if her prayer is prefferred at home then surely her I'tikaf should also be preferred at home.

They state that a woman sitting I'tikaf at home can perform her domestic duties in her designated room for I'tikaf for eg. cooking, ironing etc. But it is best if she takes care of all her responsiblities si that she can devote as much time as possible to worship. She may not leave her desginated room unless it is necessery. The same rules apply to women sitting I'tikaf as they do for men. Even a women on her menses is permitted to sit I'tikaf at her designated place at home. She can do dhikr, dua, listening to Qur'an recitation read, learn ponder over the words meanings of the Qur'an.

The Virtues of I'tikaf:

The benefits rewards for sitting I'tikaf are immense:


Ali Ibn Hussain (RA) narrates from his father that Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "He who observes the ten days I'tikaf during Ramadhan will obtain the reward of two Hajj two Umrah." (Bayhaqi)

Abdullah bin Abbas (RA) reported that Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi wasallam) said: "Whosoever for Allah's sake did even one days i'tikaf, Allah would keep him away from Jahannam by trenches." (Tabarani)

Ibn Abbas (RA) reported that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, (about him who engages in i'tikaf),"that he is safe from sin he also gets that reward which everyone (outside i'tikaf) gets for pious deeds."(Ibn Majah)

What an amazing opportunity for us to gain such immense abundant rewards aswell as closeness to Allah. We can also take this opportunity to strengthen boost our imaan (faith) for the rest of the year.


The following are 12 ways to maximize I'tikaf:

1. Purifying intentions

"Verily actions are judged by intention." [Al-Bukhaari Muslim]

It is crucial that we purify correct our intentions before doing any act of worship. This is because we may have other underlying intentions in our hearts without even realizing it. Like for e.g. we may have in our hearts that we will sit I'tikaf to have fun with friends or to look good in front of others family etc

So before doing any good deed we need to correct our intentions so that we are more sincere in our worship. The better our intentions, the greater the rewards for whatever good we are doing.

Ibn Al-Mubaarak said: "Maybe a small action is made great by its intention, maybe a great action is made small by its intention."

So for I'tikaf we should make as many good intentions as possible like for example we are sitting I'tikaf to draw closer to Allah, to strengthen one's imaan, to correct one's heart purify oneself etc.



2. Schedule Monitor Daily Worship

What better way to maximise our worship during I'tikaf than to plan schedule our time so that we can spend it as effectively as possible. By setting ourselves daily targets we can ensure that we are more likely to achieve them.

Below are links where you can download an hourly scheduler where you can set yourself hourly worship targets schedule your daily worship. There is also a daily worship check where you can check monitor your daily worship throughout the last ten nights:
3. Exerting oneself in worship during last 10 night's




Allah's Messenger used to exert himself in devotion during the last ten nights to a greater extent than at any other time." (Muslim).


Aisha (RA) reported: With the start of the last ten days of Ramadan, the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) used to tighten his waist belt (i.e. work harder) used to pray all the night, used to keep his family awake for the prayers. (Bukhari)


The last ten days nights of Ramadan are the most blessed. Therefore the person sitting I'tikaf should exert themselves in worship in each night of the last ten nights particularly the last ten odd numbered nights: 21, 23, 25, 27, 29.

By worshipping in as many of the last ten nights as possible there is more chance we will catch The night of power gain the reward of over 83 years of worship! Subhanallah thats longer than an average human life!



4. Reciting Qur'an abundantly




The Qur'an was revealed on the night of Power, so we should increase our recitation even more during the last ten days nights. The pious predecessors used to increase the amount of Qur'an they recited during the last ten days nights.

Remember: The reward for reciting each letter of the Qur'an during Ramadan is 700 hasanah or more. Subhanallah!

So we should make a target during I'tikaf using the scheduler provided of how much Qur'an we will recite each day night. We should aim to complete at least one whole Qur'an if not more by the end of I'tikaf.

Along with recitation we should also read learn the meanings of the Qur'an. We should contemplate ponder over the verses implement what we read learn into our daily lives.

Note: We should try recite Surah Ya-sin everyday particularly after Fajr time. We should also recite Surah Mulk before we going to sleep Surah Kahf every Jumma. Other very rewarding Surahs we can recite much of are Surah's Zilzalah, Al Kaafirun Al Ikhlas

Abdullah Ibn 'Abbas Anas Ibn Malik (RA) reported that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said,'Whoever recited Surah Zilzilah (99) would get the reward of reciting half the Qur'an. Whoever recited Surah al Kaafirun (109) would get a reward as if reading a quarter of the Qur'an. Whoever recited Surah al Ikhlas (112) would get a reward as if reading one third of the Qur'an'. (At-Tirmidhi 2818/A)



5. Nawafil (Voluntary) prayers




What better way of drawing closer to Allah during I'tikaf than by praying the voluntary prayers:

Allah says in Hadith Qudsi:

....And My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawafil (voluntary deeds) until I love him,[Bukhari]

Does anyone want the company of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Jannah? Then increase in praying the Nawafil prayers:

Rabi'ah Ibn Malik al-Aslami reported that the Prophet Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam said: "Ask (anything)." Rabi'ah said: "I ask of you to be your companion in paradise." The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Or anything else?" Rabi'ah said: "That is it." The Prophet Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam said to him: "Then help me by making many prostrations (i.e., Nawafil prayers)." (Muslim)

The reward for praying fard prayers outside of Ramadan is the greatest a Muslim can gain but in Ramadan we get the same reward for praying a Nawafil prayer. Subhaanallah! What other time of the year are Nawafil prayers rewarded equal to that of a fard prayer?

Therefore we should strive to pray as many Nawafils as possible during I'tikaf so we can get closer to Allah, gain the company of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) in Jannah as well as gain the rewards of a fard prayer for each nawafil prayer!


Sunnah Nawafil prayers to pray during I'tikaf:


1. Pray 12 Raka'ahs of Sunnah daily: - 2 Sunnah of Fajr, 4 Sunnah 2 Sunnah of Dhuhr 2 Sunnah of Maghrib

Umm Habibah Ramilah bint Abu Sufyan (RA) narrated she heard the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) saying:"A house will be built in Paradise for every Muslim who offers twelve units of Prayers other than the obligatory ones in day night, to seek pleasure of Allah." (Muslim)


2. Salaatul Duhaa (Can be prayed from 20 mins after sunrise up until 20 minutes before Dhuhr begins)

So we should remain seated after Fajr prayer recite the Qur'an or do Dhikr up until 20 minutes after Sunrise pray Salaatul Duhaa. If not then we can pray it anytime before midday.

'Salat al-Dhuhaa consists of 2 - 12 Rakaats it is preferable to perform 8 Rakaats.' (Raddul Mukhtaar vol.1 pg.505)

The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is reported to have said: Whoever prayed twelve rakaats (before midday), then Allah will, as a reward, prepare a palace of gold for him in Paradise. (Mishkat, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah)

3. 4 Sunnah, 2 Sunnah 2 Nawafil of Dhuhr

Umm Habibah (RA) narrated that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Whoever sticks to the habit of offering four rak`ahs before Noon Prayer four rak`ahs after it, Allah will shield him against the Hell-Fire."(Abu Dawud At-Tirmidhi)

4. 4 Raka'ahs Sunnah of Asr

The Prophet (Sallallaahu 'Alaihi wa sallam) said:"May Allaah have Mercy on the one who offers four (Raka'ahs) before 'Asr prayer."(Abu Dawud)

5. Two Raka'ahs Sunnah after entering Masjid

Abu Qatadah (RA) narrated the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) as saying: "If any one of you enters a mosque, he should pray two rak`ahs before sitting." (Al-Bukhari Muslim)

6. Tahiyyatul Wudu - 2 Raka'ahs Sunnah after doing Wudu (Ablution)

Abu Hurayrah (RA) reported the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) saying to Bilal (RA): "Tell me about the best of your deeds (i.e. one which you deem the most rewarding) since your embracing Islam because I heard your footsteps in front of me in Paradise." Bilal (RA) replied: "I do not consider any act of mine more rewarding than that whenever I make ablution at any time of night or day, I perform Prayer for as much as was destined for me to do." (Al-Bukhari Muslim)"


7. The MOST REWARDING Nawafil Prayer of all is Tahajjud

Allah Most High said: "Establish worship at the going down of the sun until the dark of the night, (the recital of) the Qur'an at dawn. Lo! (the recital of) the Qur'an at dawn is ever witnessed. And some part of the night awake for its recital, as voluntary worship for you. It may be that your Lord will raise you to a praised estate."(Qur'an, 17: 78-79)

Imam Abu Sa'id al-Khadimi said, "There is scholarly consensus (ijma`) that among the best of virtuous acts is the night vigil prayer." [al-Bariqa al-Mahmudiyya Sharh al-Tariqa al-Muhammadiyya]


The scholars derived the following in regards to Tahajjud from the Qur'an Prophetic Hadiths:

1. The minimal night vigil prayer is 2 Rakaats. [Hindiyya, quoting Fath al-Qadir]

2. Its optimal recommended amount is 8 Rakaats, because this was the general practice of the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) [Hindiyya, quoting Fath al-Qadir]

3. Lengthier recitation of Qur'an is superior to a larger number of Rakaats prayed. [Durr al-Mukhtaar, Radd al-Muhtar]

If one has not memorized much of the Qur'an then one should recite whatever they know or recite Surah Ikhlas 3 times after Surah Faathiha in each rakah to gain reward of reciting entire Qur'an.

4. It is recommended to start the night vigil with two short Rakaats, because of the Hadith of Abu Hurayrah (RA) that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said, "If you get up for night prayer, start with two short Rakaats." [Muslim, Ahmad, Abu Dawud]

Whilst in I'tikaf we should aim to pray Tahajjud every night in the last 10 nights. If not then we should pray it in as many nights as we possibly can particularly in the nights of the 21,23,25,27 29.

One should wake up a little earlier for Sehri, making Wudu pray a minimum of 2 Raka'ahs of Tahajjud. It is best to pray at least 8 Raka'ahs.

Abu Hurayrah (RA), related that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: When the last one-third of the night remains, our Lord, the Glorious One descends towards the heaven of the earth proclaims: Who is that who supplicates for Me, I grant his supplication? Who is that who begs Me for anything I grant it to him? And who is that who seeks My forgiveness, I forgive him? (Bukhari, Muslim).

The last third portion of the night is the most blessed dua's are readily accepted at this time. So by praying Tahajjud it gives us the best opportunity to get closer to Allah to make sincere dua, repenting for our sins past present to crying asking of Allah for whatever we want.

If we cannot cry due to the hardness of our hearts then we should at least make the face as if we are crying. Just as a mother tends to her baby quicker more promptly when it is crying in the same way Allah tends to his servants quicker when they are crying.

Ibn Mas`ud (Allah be pleased with him) was asked, "I cannot pray at night." He said, "Your sins have prevented you."



6. Excessive Remembrance of Allah




Whilst in I'tikaf we should spend as much time as possible in the remembrance of Allah, keeping our lips moist in his glorification praises. Surely we will have utter regret in the hereafter for each second wasted without remembering Allah:

Mu`adh Ibn Jabal (RA) said that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "The People of Paradise will not regret anything except one thing alone: the hour that passed them by in which they made no remembrance of Allah." Narrated Bayhaqi in Shu`ab al-iman (1:392 #512-513)

The highest rank in Jannah are for those who remembered Allah the most:

Abu Sa`id (RA) narrates the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was asked, "Which of the servants of Allah is best in rank before Allah on the Day of resurrection?" He said: "The ones who remember him much."I said: "O Messenger of Allah, what about the fighter in the way of Allah?" He answered: "Even if he strikes the unbelievers mushrikin with his sword until it broke, becomes red with their blood, truly those who do Dhikr are better than him in rank." (Ahmad, Tirmidhi, Bayhaqi)

Therefore we should remember Allah as much as we can glorify him night day, not just in Ramadan or in I'tikaf but until our very last breath. What better time to start remembering Allah more than during I'tikaf when we can sit in seclusion remembering Allah:


The following are 11 Dhikr, supported by Hadith that we can recite throughout the duration of I'tikaf:


Note: We should try aim to recite each of these 10 Dhikr a 100 times each which makes a total of 1000 a day minimum.

1. Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee - Recite this abundantly during the last ten nights of Ramadan.

2. Subhaanallah

3. Alhamdulillah

4. Allahu Akbar

5. Laa ilaaha illallah

6. LA HAWLA WA LA QUWWATA ILLA BILLAH-HIL ALIYYIL ADHEEM

7. Asthaghfirullah-halladhee Laa ilaaha illa-huwal Hayyul Qayyuumu Wa athoobu Ilay

Or short version: Asthaghfirullah

8. SUB-HAAN'ALLAAHi WA BI-HAM'DIHI SUB-HAAN'ALLAH-IL ADHEEM

Or short version: SUB-HAAN'ALLAAHi WA BI-HAM'DIHI

9. Subhāna-llāhi, wa-l-hamdu li-llāhi, wa lā ilāha illā-llāhu, wa-llāhu akbar. Wa lā hawla wa lā quwwata illā bi-llāhi-l-aliyyi-l-azīm

10. Lā ilāha illā-llāhu waḥdahu lā sharīka lahu lahu-l-mulku wa lahu-l-ḥamdu yuhyi wa yumītu wa huwa ḥayyu-llā yamūtu abadan abada, ḏū-l-jalāli wa-l-ikrām, biyadihi-l-khayr, wa huwa alā kulli Shay-in qadīr

Or the shortened version:

Laa ilaaha illal-laahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa 'alaa kulli shay-in qadeer

11. Radeetu billahi Rabban Wa bil Islami deenan Wabi Muhammadin Nabiyyan

We should also recite much of durood e Ibrahim which is the durood that is recited towards the end of Salaah.

Or the shortest durood is: Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallim



7. Making Excessive Dua Repentance




What better opportunity to repent make long sincere dua's to Allah than whilst devoting oneself to Allah in his house.

Almighty Allah says in the Qur'an:

"When my servants ask you concerning me, (tell them) I am indeed close (to them). I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calls on me." [2:186]

The place of Dua is so high in front of Allah, that the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallim) has said: "Nothing is more honourable to Allah the Most High than Dua." [Sahih al-Jami` no.5268].

Allah loves repentance loves those who turn to him in sincere repentance, so repent unto him sincerely as much as possible:

Truly Allah loves those who turn [to Him] in repentance... (Qur'an 2:222)

Many of us rush our Dua's quite often our hearts are not present whilst we are making dua to Allah. That is why we lose out on much of the benefits blessings of Dua. Therefore we should not let our minds wonder whilst in Dua we should concentrate more, making sure our hearts are present whilst asking of Allah. Whilst we are in dua we should imagine Almighty Allah in front of us so we should humble ourselves in front of him in a state of meekness humility.

It may also help if we made a list of what we want to ask Allah during our dua's. We can then refer to this list as a reminder so that we can cover everything we need to ask him, which may help in making our Dua's longer more sincere. This is because we will not always remember everything we want to ask Allah unless we note it down refer back to it when we need to.

The times when Dua's are most accepted during I'thikaf are:

1. The third portion of the night shortly before sehri ends. 2. Whilst fasting. 3. Between Asr Maghrib. 4. Just before fast opens. 5. On Jumma before after khutba. 6. Between Adhan Iqamah. 7. After Qur'an recitation. 8. The Night of Qadr

Let us not be of those who pass by Ramadan without gaining any forgiveness:

Rasullullah (sallahu' 'alaihi wasallam) said: ...the angel Jibra'il appeared before me said: Destruction to him who found the blessed month of Ramadan let it pass by without gaining forgiveness...' Upon that I said: 'Amin.' (Al-Bukhari, Al-Tabrani)

We should ask of Allah whilst in I'tikaf to accept all of our good deeds efforts throughout Ramadan be hopeful that Allah will accept it from us. We should also have FULL hope that Allah will accept our Dua's if not in this world then in the hereafter. We should accept his decree for he knows best in all matters.



8. Practising the Sunnah



Following the Sunnah is a command from Allah:

"Say (O Muhammad to mankind): "If you (really) love Allah, then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic monotheism, follow the Quran the Sunnah), Allah will love you forgive you your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Quran: 3:31)

Almighty Allah says: "There certainly is an excellent example in Allah's messenger for he who fears Allah the last day remembers Allah abundantly" (al-Ahzaab 21)

By following the Sunnah in every aspect of our daily lives, everything we do will become worship, even going to the toilet, having a bath, dressing undressing etc.

Annas (RA) reports Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasallam) advised, "Whoever cherishes my Sunnah, indeed he cherishes me whoever loves me will be with me in Jannah." (Tirmidhi: 2678: Ibid)

We should practise implement the Sunnah throughout the duration of I'tikaf like for eg the Sunnah's of awakening, using miswak, of eating, drinking, going to the toilet, before sleeping etc. Then EVERYTHING we do whilst in I'tikaf will become worship reward. Doing voluntary good deeds in Ramadan carrys the reward of FARD! Subhanallah!

Reviving the Sunnah:

Rasulallah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "Whoever revives an aspect of my Sunnah that is forgotten after my death, he will have a reward equivalent to that of the people who follow him, without it detracting in the least from their reward." (Tirmidhi)


The following free E book contains complete daily Sunnah's dua's from waking up in the morning until going to sleep at night:
9. Refraining from sin idle talk




The person sitting in I'tikaf must take extra care attention to ensure that they refrain from committing any sins. That includes guarding the ears, eyes, tongue, privates heart, thus deriving the maximum benefit from I'tikaf attaining a special closeness to Allah an increase strengthening of imaan (faith).

The mu'takif (person sitting I'tikaf) should remember that they are the guest of Almighty Allah in his house so therefore they should be extremely vigilant of their behaviour in the House of Almighty Allah.

They must also avoid getting into idle discussions, debates arguments which will be of no benefit but cause more harm than good.

Remember: Time will go quick if we waste our precious time during I'tikaf then surely we will regret it forever. So let us use this valuable time wisely as this may be our last I'tikaf so let us treat it like our very last.



10. Avoiding over eating sleeping




Excessive eating sleeping during I'tikaf is a major factor in stopping a person from maximizing their I'tikaf.

Ibrahim al-Nakha'i (RA), one of the teachers of Imam Abu Hanifa (RA) mentioned: "The people ruined before you were done in by three characteristics: too much talking, too much eating, too much sleeping."

Ash-Shafi'I (RA) said: I have not filled myself in sixteen years because filling oneself makes the body heavy, removes clear understanding, induces sleep makes one weak for worship.

It used to be said: Whoever takes control of his stomach gets control of all good deeds.

So a person must ensure that they do NOT over eat or over sleep during I'tikaf. Doing so will make a person feel heavy,tired lazy resulting in that person not being as productive as they should be during I'tikaf.

Remember: Set yourself limits stick to them. Stay focused on your main goals purpose for sitting in I'tikaf what you hope to achieve out of it.



11. Not leaving Masjid unless necessery



It is not permitted for a man or woman to leave the Masjid during I'tikaf unless:

1. To answer the call of nature.
2. To pass wind.
3. To make wudhu.
4. To take an obligatory bath.
5. To proclaim the adhan even if one is not the muadhin.

It is not permitted for a person sitting in I'tikaf to leave the Masjid to have a Sunnah Friday bath only obligatory bath. It is also not permitted to go out of Masjid to use mobile phone. One should also try not to disturb others. It is permissable to Take head out of the window in the Masjid.



12. Searching for the Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr)




So valuable is the Night of Qadr (Power) that the Quran devotes a special surah to it: "Lailatul Qadr is better than a thousand months" [97:3]

This one night surpasses the value of 30,000 nights. The most authentic account of the occurrence of the Night indicates that it can occur on any one of the last ten, odd numbered nights of Ramadan, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29. It may also occur on any of the even nights.

Therefore we should strive to stay up worship on all of the last 10 nights of Ramadan. If we can't do that then we should at least worship the odd numbered nights of the last ten days. If we still can't manage that then let us pray on whatever nights we can, minimum on the 27th night.

There is NO doubt that if we pray on all of the last ten nights of Ramadan then we will catch this auspicious night gain the rewards of over 83 YEARS OF WORSHIP! Subhaanallah! Most do not live upto such an age!

The following dua should be recited as much as possible during the last 10 nights of Ramadan:

Aisha (RA) said: I asked the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam): 'O Messenger of Allah, if I know what night is the night of Qadr, what should I say during it?' He said Say:

"Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee

Trans: 'Say: O Allah, You are pardoning You love to pardon, so pardon me.' " (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, Tirmidhi).


May Allah enable us to make the best of the last ten days nights of Ramadan. May Allah enable us to find the night of power may he accept our I'tikaf make it a salvation for us on the day of judgement. Ameen
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