1.Sidra al-Muntaha:

• Sidra al-Muntaha, also known as the “Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary” or “The Furthest Lote Tree,” is a special celestial tree or boundary mentioned in Islamic tradition. It marks the end point in the heavens beyond which no creation can pass, including angels.

2. Jibril (Gabriel) Crossing the Boundary:

• In Islamic tradition, even the archangel Jibril (Gabriel) did not cross the Sidra al-Muntaha during the event of the Isra and Mi’raj (Night Journey and Ascension). This highlights the extraordinary nature of this celestial boundary.

3. Shab-e-Miraj (Night of Ascension):

• Shab-e-Miraj is a significant event in Islamic tradition. It commemorates the night when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was miraculously transported from the Kaaba in Mecca to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem and then ascended through the heavens, culminating in his journey to Sidra al-Muntaha.
• During this event, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) met several prophets, including Prophet Adam, Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), Prophet Musa (Moses), Prophet Isa (Jesus), and others. These meetings symbolize the unity of the message of monotheism across different prophetic traditions.

4. Sahih Muslim 173 and Sahih Bukhari 3887:

• Sahih Muslim 173 and Sahih Bukhari 3887 are references to specific hadith (narrations) regarding the Isra and Mi’raj. These hadith provide detailed accounts of the Night of Ascension and the Prophet’s experiences during that miraculous journey.

5. Meeting Other Prophets:

• During the Night of Ascension, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had the honor of meeting several other prophets. These meetings reinforce the interconnectedness of prophetic missions and the importance of the message of monotheism.

6. Timing and Location:

• The exact timing of the Night of Ascension and the journey to Sidra al-Muntaha is a matter of Islamic tradition and belief. It is not associated with the house of Umme Hani but rather occurred during the Prophet’s lifetime in Mecca.

The Night of Ascension holds great significance in Islamic spirituality and underscores the unique position of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the final messenger and the mercy of Allah. It emphasizes the connection between the earthly and celestial realms and highlights the importance of prayer and devotion in Islam.

Different religions and philosophies have varying views on the concept of the soul:

1. How Different Religions View the Concept of the Soul:

• Islam: In Islam, the soul, known as the “nafs,” is a fundamental aspect of a person’s existence. It is considered immortal and eternal. The soul’s ultimate destiny is determined by one’s actions in this world. Believers who follow God’s guidance and do good deeds will attain a peaceful afterlife, while those who reject God’s guidance and commit evil deeds may face punishment.
• Christianity: Christianity generally views the soul as immortal and created by God. Christian beliefs about the soul can vary among denominations. Some believe in the doctrine of “eternal life” where souls go to heaven or hell after death based on faith in Jesus Christ. Others believe in the concept of “purgatory,” a temporary state for purification.
• Judaism: Judaism holds that the soul is eternal and created by God. There is a belief in an afterlife, but the details can vary among Jewish traditions. Some believe in resurrection, while others emphasize the idea of the soul’s journey and rejoining God.
• Hinduism: Hinduism teaches a complex view of the soul, known as “Atman.” It is considered eternal, unchanging, and part of the universal consciousness (Brahman). The goal is to realize one’s oneness with Brahman through spiritual practices and break the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara).
• Buddhism: Buddhism does not believe in an eternal soul (anatta). Instead, it teaches that the self is an illusion, and existence is a continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). The goal is to attain Nirvana, a state of liberation from suffering and rebirth.
• Sikhism: Sikhs believe in the concept of the soul (Atma), which is considered a spark of the Divine (Waheguru). The goal is to merge the individual soul with the Universal Soul through devotion and righteous living.

2. The Concept of the Soul’s Weight (Gram) in Islam:

• In Islam, there is a belief that the actions and deeds of a person are weighed on the Day of Judgment. The Quran mentions that even an atom’s weight of good or evil will be brought forth for judgment (Quran, Surah Al-Zalzalah, 99:7-8).

3. The Concept of a Naik (Good) Soul and a Bad Soul in Islam:

• Islam emphasizes the importance of purifying the soul through righteous deeds, sincere worship, and moral conduct. A “naik” or good soul is one that is inclined towards good actions, obedience to God, and compassion for others.
• Conversely, a “bad” soul is one that indulges in sinful behavior, rejects God’s guidance, and is selfish or harmful to others. It is important to strive for self-purification and seek God’s forgiveness to improve one’s soul.

These views on the soul are central to each religion’s teachings and help shape their beliefs about the afterlife, morality, and the purpose of human existence.

The Prophet whose name is mentioned the most in the Quran is the Prophet Musa (Moses in English). His name is mentioned numerous times throughout the Quran. Here are the points related to your question:

1. Name of the Prophet mentioned most in the Quran:

• The Prophet mentioned most frequently in the Quran is Musa (Moses).

2. How many times is the name of Prophet Musa mentioned in the Quran?

• The name “Musa” (Moses) is mentioned by name approximately 136 times in the Quran.

3. Which part of the Quran is Prophet Musa’s story discussed in?

• The story of Prophet Musa is primarily discussed in several parts of the Quran, including but not limited to:
  • Surah Al-Baqarah (Chapter 2)
  • Surah Al-A’raf (Chapter 7)
  • Surah Ta-Ha (Chapter 20)
  • Surah Al-Qasas (Chapter 28)
  • Surah Al-Ankabut (Chapter 29)
  • Surah Al-Isra (Chapter 17)

4. Why is the story of Prophet Musa mentioned so many times in the Quran?

• The story of Prophet Musa is emphasized in the Quran because it carries significant lessons and morals for believers. It highlights the concept of prophethood, the struggle against oppression, the importance of faith, and the divine guidance provided to a prophet and his community. The story of Musa also illustrates the consequences of disobedience and the importance of following God’s guidance.

5. Is the story of Musa related to Bani Israel (the Children of Israel)?

• Yes, the story of Prophet Musa is closely associated with Bani Israel, also known as the Children of Israel. He was sent as a prophet to guide the Children of Israel, and his story includes their liberation from the oppression of Pharaoh, the receiving of the Ten Commandments, and their journey through the wilderness.

The repetition of Prophet Musa’s name and his story in the Quran serves as a reminder of the lessons and guidance that can be drawn from his experiences and serves as an example of prophethood and the struggle for justice and faith.

Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4) in the Quran is not specifically designated for women; rather, it addresses various aspects of family and social law in Islam. However, it contains guidance and regulations that are relevant to both men and women. Here are some key points from Surah An-Nisa, Chapter 4:

1. Revelation Context (Asbab al-Nuzul):

• Surah An-Nisa was revealed in Medina.
• It addresses various legal and social issues faced by the Muslim community at the time.

2. Inheritance Laws (Verses 11-14):

• These verses outline the rules of inheritance, including the shares of close family members such as spouses, parents, children, and siblings.
• These rules are designed to ensure fair distribution of wealth and protect the rights of heirs, both male and female.

3. Marriage Regulations (Verses 3-6):

• These verses contain guidelines on marriage, including the permissibility of marrying up to four wives and the importance of treating them justly.
• The verses also address issues related to orphaned children and the necessity of protecting their rights.

4. Treatment of Orphans (Verse 9):

• The Quran emphasizes the importance of treating orphans justly and protecting their rights, especially in matters of inheritance.

5. Prohibition of Incestuous Relationships (Verse 23):

• The Quran explicitly forbids sexual relationships between close relatives, ensuring the sanctity of family bonds.

6. Protection of Women’s Rights (Verses 19-20):

• These verses address the necessity of obtaining the consent of women before marrying them.
• They also encourage kindness and fairness in dealings with wives.

7. Legal Punishments (Verses 15-16):

• These verses outline the punishment for those who commit adultery or engage in false accusations of adultery.
• The punishment is established to maintain morality and justice in society.

8. Guidance for Believers (Various Verses):

• Surah An-Nisa provides general guidance for all believers, including instructions on justice, kindness, and accountability.

9. Addressing Widow’s Rights (Verse 4):

• The Quran addresses the rights of widows, emphasizing the importance of protecting their interests and dignity.

10. Guardianship and Custody (Verses 11-12): – These verses also touch upon the issue of guardianship and custody of children in cases of separation or divorce.

Conclusion: Surah An-Nisa, while not exclusively for women, addresses various aspects of family and social law in Islam. It provides guidance on matters of inheritance, marriage, orphan care, protection of women’s rights, and more. The Surah aims to establish justice, fairness, and morality within the Muslim community and society as a whole.

Salat al-Tasbeeh: A Special Prayer in Islam

1. Is Salat al-Tasbeeh Legislated in Islam?

• Salat al-Tasbeeh is a recommended (Sunnah) prayer in Islam, but it is not obligatory (Fard) or universally agreed upon. It is considered a virtuous act of worship.

2. What is Salat al-Tasbeeh?

• Salat al-Tasbeeh is a special prayer that involves the recitation of specific supplications and the glorification of Allah.
• It is intended to seek forgiveness, purification of the heart, and to remember Allah’s greatness.

3. Is Salat al-Tasbeeh Performed by Congregation (Jama’at) or Individuals?

• Salat al-Tasbeeh is typically performed individually, not as a congregational prayer.
• Individuals may choose to offer it at any time, preferably during the night or in a quiet and secluded place.

4. Purpose of Salat al-Tasbeeh:

• The primary purpose of Salat al-Tasbeeh is to seek forgiveness and purification of the heart.
• It is also a means of remembering Allah’s greatness and acknowledging His attributes.

5. How to Pray Salat al-Tasbeeh:

• Salat al-Tasbeeh consists of four units (Rak’ahs) of prayer.
• In each Rak’ah, you recite Surah Al-Fatiha (the opening chapter of the Quran) followed by a specific Tasbeeh (glorification) mentioned below.
• After the Tasbeeh, you recite any other Surah or verses from the Quran.
• The specific Tasbeeh is repeated 15 times in each Rak’ah, totaling 75 times throughout the prayer.
• The Tasbeeh is: “Subhan Allahi Wal Hamdulillahi Walaa ilaaha illal Laahu Wallaahu Akbar” (سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ وَلَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَاللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ).
• The sequence is as follows:
  • In the first Rak’ah, after Surah Al-Fatiha, recite the Tasbeeh 15 times.
  • In the second Rak’ah, after Surah Al-Fatiha, recite the Tasbeeh 10 times.
  • In the third Rak’ah, after Surah Al-Fatiha, recite the Tasbeeh 10 times.
  • In the fourth Rak’ah, after Surah Al-Fatiha, recite the Tasbeeh 10 times.

6. Can Salat al-Tasbeeh Be Performed Without Wudu (Ablution)?

• Ideally, it is recommended to be in a state of wudu (ablution) when performing Salat al-Tasbeeh, as with any prayer in Islam.
• However, some scholars permit it without wudu, considering it a virtuous act that can be performed at any time, even when not in a state of ritual purity.

Conclusion: Salat al-Tasbeeh is a recommended prayer in Islam, not obligatory, and is performed individually. Its purpose is seeking forgiveness, purification of the heart, and remembering Allah’s greatness. It consists of specific Tasbeeh recitations in four Rak’ahs and can be performed with or without wudu, although wudu is recommended.