Righteous Travel and Tours

24/11/2024

Ninety Six Days left for Ramadan 2025

24/11/2024

BRIEF DISCUSSION OF CAVE HIRA

Cave Hira (غار حراء) is one of the most significant locations in Islamic history. Situated in the mountains surrounding Makkah, specifically on Jabal al-Nour (The Mountain of Light), it holds immense spiritual and historical importance as the place where the first revelation of the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

1. The Location

Physical Description: Cave Hira is a small cave about 4 meters long and 1.5 meters wide. It is located approximately 3 kilometers from the Kaaba in Makkah. The climb to reach it is steep, taking about 1-2 hours.

Strategic View: From its entrance, one can see the Kaaba and the surrounding valley, creating a serene and reflective environment.

2. Significance in Islam

First Revelation: It was in Cave Hira that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ received the first verses of the Quran through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel):
اقْرَأْ بِاسْمِ رَبِّكَ الَّذِي خَلَقَ
(Recite in the name of your Lord who created.)
(Surah Al-‘Alaq, 96:1)

This marked the beginning of prophethood and the final message to humanity.

Reflection and Solitude: Before receiving revelation, the Prophet ﷺ would frequently retreat to Cave Hira for days, reflecting on the state of society and contemplating the Creator. This habit reflects the spiritual preparation Allah had ordained for him.

3. Key Events in Cave Hira

The Night of Revelation:

The Prophet ﷺ was 40 years old when, during one of his meditative retreats, Angel Jibreel appeared and commanded him to read (Iqra). The Prophet ﷺ, being unlettered, replied, “I am not able to read.” This interaction repeated three times before the first verses of the Quran were revealed.

The Prophet ﷺ was shaken by the experience and rushed home to his wife Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (RA), seeking comfort. She reassured him and took him to her cousin, Waraqah ibn Nawfal, a learned Christian who confirmed his prophethood.

4. Lessons from Cave Hira

1. Importance of Reflection: The Prophet’s habit of isolating himself for meditation underscores the value of introspection and spiritual connection.
2. Preparation for a Great Mission: The Prophet ﷺ was spiritually prepared in Cave Hira for the immense responsibility of delivering Allah’s final message to humanity.
3. Allah’s Chosen Messenger: The events in Cave Hira highlight the selection of Muhammad ﷺ as the Seal of the Prophets, fulfilling a divine plan for human guidance.
4. The Power of Revelation: The experience signifies the start of a new era where divine guidance through the Quran would illuminate humanity.

5. Hadith References

The Prophet ﷺ described the first revelation:
“The angel came to me and said, ‘Read!’ I said, ‘I am not a reader.’ He took hold of me and pressed me until I was weary, then he released me and said, ‘Read in the name of your Lord who created…’”(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 3)

Khadijah’s Support: After the incident, Khadijah (RA) comforted the Prophet ﷺ by saying:
“By Allah, Allah will never disgrace you. You keep good relations with your relatives, help the poor, serve your guests generously, and assist those in need.”(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 4953)

6. Spiritual Relevance Today

Inspiration for Worship: Cave Hira reminds Muslims of the importance of solitude, reflection, and devotion.

Reaffirmation of Faith: The site serves as a reminder of the miraculous beginning of the Quran and the profound responsibility of spreading its message.

Symbol of Revelation: Visiting or reflecting on Cave Hira connects believers to the humble origins of Islam and the dedication of the Prophet ﷺ.

Cave Hira is not just a physical location but a symbol of revelation, spiritual awakening, and the beginning of Islam’s transformative journey. It teaches us the importance of contemplation, the necessity of seeking divine guidance, and the power of Allah’s message delivered through His final Prophet ﷺ.

24/11/2024

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:6-10):

Verse 6

إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ سَوَآءٌ عَلَيۡهِمۡ ءَأَنذَرۡتَهُمۡ أَمۡ لَمۡ تُنذِرۡهُمۡ لَا يُؤۡمِنُونَ
(“Indeed, those who disbelieve—it is the same to them whether you warn them or do not warn them—they will not believe.”)

Here, Allah speaks about the disbelievers (kuffar) who reject faith despite being warned. These are people whose hearts have been sealed due to their arrogance and persistent rejection of truth. This verse highlights that guidance cannot reach those who have closed themselves off from divine truth.

Verse 7

خَتَمَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَىٰ قُلُوبِهِمۡ وَعَلَىٰ سَمۡعِهِمۡۖ وَعَلَىٰٓ أَبۡصَـٰرِهِمۡ غِشَـٰوَةٞۖ وَلَهُمۡ عَذَابٌ عَظِيمٞ
(“Allah has set a seal upon their hearts and upon their hearing, and over their vision is a veil. And for them is a great punishment.”)

Allah explains why the disbelievers do not respond to guidance—they have been sealed. This seal signifies the outcome of their own persistent denial and rejection of truth. Their hearts, ears, and eyes are rendered ineffective against the signs of Allah. This serves as a warning against heedlessness and arrogance.

Verse 8

وَمِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ مَن يَقُولُ ءَامَنَّا بِٱللَّهِ وَبِٱلۡيَوۡمِ ٱلۡأٓخِرِ وَمَا هُم بِمُؤۡمِنِينَ
(And among people are those who say, “We believe in Allah and the Last Day,” but they are not believers.)

This verse shifts focus to the hypocrites (munafiqoon), who outwardly claim faith in Allah and the Hereafter but harbor disbelief in their hearts. It underscores the danger of hypocrisy, as such individuals betray trust and cause confusion within the Muslim community.

Verse 9

يُخَٰدِعُونَ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْۖ وَمَا يَخۡدَعُونَ إِلَّآ أَنفُسَهُمۡ وَمَا يَشۡعُرُونَ
(They think to deceive Allah and those who believe, but they deceive not except themselves, and they perceive it not.)

The hypocrites are described as attempting to deceive Allah and the believers by pretending faith. However, their deception only harms themselves, as Allah is fully aware of what lies in their hearts. This verse highlights the futility of trying to manipulate divine knowledge and the self-destructive nature of hypocrisy.

Verse 10

فِي قُلُوبِهِم مَّرَضٞ فَزَادَهُمُ ٱللَّهُ مَرَضٗاۖ وَلَهُمۡ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمُۢ بِمَا كَانُواْ يَكۡذِبُونَ
(In their hearts is a disease, so Allah has increased their disease; and for them is a painful punishment because they [habitually] used to lie.)

The “disease” in this verse refers to doubt, envy, arrogance, and insincerity. Due to their persistent falsehoods and deceit, Allah increases their spiritual ailment. This verse serves as a powerful warning about the consequences of insincerity and dishonesty in faith.

Lessons and Reflection:

1. True Guidance: Only those with sincerity, faith, and humility receive the guidance of the Quran.
2. Rejection of Truth: Persistent denial of Allah’s signs leads to a spiritual sealing, making guidance ineffective.
3. Hypocrisy: Hypocrites are dangerous both to themselves and to the community, as their dishonesty undermines trust and unity.
4. Spiritual Consequences: Doubt and insincerity in faith lead to spiritual decay and ultimately severe punishment in the Hereafter.

These verses set the stage for understanding the three main groups of people in relation to the Quran: believers, disbelievers, and hypocrites. They highlight the characteristics and consequences of each group’s actions, urging us to strive for sincerity and avoid arrogance or deceit.

23/11/2024

Riyadh Metro Train

23/11/2024

Cave Hira, located on Jabal Al-Noor (Mountain of Light) near Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is a small yet historically significant cave in Islamic tradition. It is the site where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received the first revelation of the Quran from Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). Measuring about 3.5 meters in length and 1.5 meters in width, the cave offers a serene and spiritual ambiance, attracting pilgrims and visitors who climb the steep mountain to connect with its profound legacy.

21/11/2024

18/11/2024

Surah Al-Baqarah is the longest chapter of the Quran, and it begins with a profound opening that sets the tone for the guidance it provides.

Verse 1

ألم (Alif Lam Meem)

These are Huruf Muqatta’at (disjointed letters). Their exact meaning is known only to Allah. However, scholars provide interpretations such as:

A Miracle of the Quran: These letters challenge humanity, indicating that the Quran is composed of the same Arabic letters yet remains unmatched in its eloquence and wisdom.

Divine Secret: Ibn Kathir and others explain that they serve as a divine mystery, emphasizing submission to Allah’s wisdom even when human understanding falls short.

Hadith Reference: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever recites a letter from the Book of Allah will receive a reward, and each reward will be multiplied by ten. I do not say that ‘Alif Lam Meem’ is one letter, but ‘Alif’ is a letter, ‘Lam’ is a letter, and ‘Meem’ is a letter.”
(Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2910)

Verse 2

ذَٰلِكَ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبُ لَا رَيۡبَۛ فِيهِۛ هُدٗى لِّلۡمُتَّقِينَ (This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.)

The Quran is presented as a definitive source of guidance, free from any falsehood or contradiction.
• لَا رَيۡبَۛ فِيهِ (No doubt in it): This establishes the Quran’s authenticity and trustworthiness, providing certainty for believers.
• هُدٗى لِّلۡمُتَّقِينَ (Guidance for the pious): The Quran benefits those who have Taqwa (consciousness of Allah), as their hearts are open to its guidance.

Commentary: Ibn Kathir states that “Taqwa” is a shield protecting individuals from sin and the punishment of Allah through obedience and sincere faith.

Reflection: The Quran’s guidance is conditional on the reader’s sincerity and readiness to accept the truth.

Verse 3

ٱلَّذِينَ يُؤۡمِنُونَ بِٱلۡغَيۡبِ وَيُقِيمُونَ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَمِمَّا رَزَقۡنَـٰهُمۡ يُنفِقُونَ (Who believe in the unseen, establish prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them.)

This verse highlights the qualities of the righteous:
1. Belief in the Unseen: They accept realities beyond human perception, such as Allah, angels, and the Hereafter.
2. Establishing Salah (Prayer): Regular prayer reflects their connection to Allah and discipline in worship.
3. Spending in Charity: Their generosity is an acknowledgment that wealth is a blessing from Allah.

Hadith Reference: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Iman (faith) is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and to believe in Qadar (divine decree), both the good and bad of it.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 😎

Reflection: These qualities form the foundation of a believer’s life, balancing spirituality (prayer) and social responsibility (charity).

Verse 4

وَٱلَّذِينَ يُؤۡمِنُونَ بِمَآ أُنزِلَ إِلَيۡكَ وَمَآ أُنزِلَ مِن قَبۡلِكَ وَبِٱلۡأٓخِرَةِ هُمۡ يُوقِنُونَ (And who believe in what has been revealed to you, [O Muhammad], and what was revealed before you, and of the Hereafter they are certain.)

This verse expands on the belief of the righteous:

Faith in the Quran as revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Faith in previous scriptures (Torah, Gospel) in their original, unaltered forms.

Certainty in the Hereafter and accountability before Allah.

Commentary: Belief in all scriptures underscores the unity of divine revelation and the continuity of Allah’s guidance throughout history.

Reflection: A true believer accepts all messengers and revelations as part of the same divine message, leading to certainty in Allah’s justice in the Hereafter.

Verse 5

أُوْلَـٰٓئِكَ عَلَىٰ هُدٗى مِّن رَّبِّهِمۡۖ وَأُوْلَـٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلۡمُفۡلِحُونَ (It is they who are upon guidance from their Lord, and it is they who will prosper.)

Those who embody these qualities (Taqwa, belief in the unseen, prayer, charity, faith in revelation, and certainty in the Hereafter) are described as:

Rightly Guided: Their guidance is from Allah, not based on mere speculation.

Successful: Their success (falah) is both worldly and eternal.

Reflection: True success lies in aligning oneself with Allah’s guidance and living a life of faith and good deeds.

Hadith Reference: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever follows a path to seek knowledge, Allah will make the path to Paradise easy for him…”(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2699)

This Hadith reflects that guidance comes to those who actively seek it through sincerity and submission.

Summary of Lessons from Verses 1-5

1. The Quran is a flawless source of guidance for those who seek Allah sincerely and live with Taqwa.
2. Key qualities of the righteous include belief in the unseen, prayer, charity, and faith in all divine revelation.
3. Faith in the Hereafter ensures accountability and motivates righteous behavior.
4. True success comes from living in accordance with divine guidance, balancing spirituality and social responsibility.

These verses introduce the Quran as the ultimate guide for humanity, urging us to adopt the qualities that lead to eternal success.

18/11/2024

This verse highlights the severe consequences for neglecting the remembrance of Allah. It serves as a reminder for all believers to stay connected to Allah through dhikr, prayer, and obedience, as forgetting Him leads to both worldly hardship and eternal consequences in the Hereafter.

16/11/2024

May Allah, the Most Merciful, grant our heartfelt longing to stand before the Ka’aba in Ramadan 2025 and accept our sincere prayers. Setting up a prayer space with devotion reflects our deep love for Him. May this intention lead to the unforgettable journey of performing Umrah every Ramadan. InshaAllah, our dream will soon become a reality.

16/11/2024

“What you give for Umrah is never lost; Allah returns it in blessings in this life and rewards in the Hereafter. Spend without hesitation, for every sacrifice is a step closer to Him.”

16/11/2024

Follow Righteous Travel and Tours Tilawat Qur’an. May Allah accept this as our good

سُوۡرَةُ ٱلۡفَاتِحَةِ

Surah Al-Fatiha (The Opening) is the first chapter of the Quran, consisting of 7 verses. It is central to Islamic worship, recited in every unit of Salah (prayer). This Surah is unique, containing praise of Allah, acknowledgment of His Lordship, and a supplication for guidance. Below is a thematic breakdown of the Surah, supported by relevant Hadith and scholarly commentary:

1. Opening with Praise of Allah

ٱلۡحَمۡدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ ٱلۡعَـٰلَمِينَ (All praise is for Allah, the Lord of all worlds)

This verse establishes the essence of gratitude and praise exclusively belonging to Allah. It highlights His role as the Creator and Sustainer of all existence.

Commentary: Imam Al-Qurtubi explains, “Al-Hamd signifies gratitude and recognition of Allah’s blessings, with submission to His will.” It sets the tone for the believer’s relationship with Allah—one of reliance and gratitude.

Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved speech to Allah is: Subhan Allah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2137)

2. Allah’s Mercy and Justice

ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ (The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful)

These attributes of Allah, Ar-Rahman and Ar-Raheem, emphasize His mercy, encompassing both this world and the Hereafter. Scholars note that while Ar-Rahman signifies an all-encompassing mercy, Ar-Raheem points to His mercy specifically for believers.

Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Allah has one hundred mercies, of which He sent down one mercy to the world, and through it, people and animals show kindness to one another…”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 6000)

3. Master of the Day of Judgment

مَـٰلِكِ يَوۡمِ ٱلدِّينِ (Master of the Day of Judgment)

This verse reminds the believer of ultimate accountability. It ties human actions to the Hereafter, emphasizing Allah’s supreme authority as the Judge.

Commentary: Ibn Kathir notes that this verse inspires both fear and hope—fear of standing before Allah on the Day of Judgment and hope for His mercy and forgiveness.

Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The servant will be asked about four matters on the Day of Judgment: his life and how he spent it, his knowledge and how he acted upon it, his wealth and how he earned and spent it, and his body and how he used it.”
(Sunan At-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2417)

4. Devotion and Supplication

إِيَّاكَ نَعۡبُدُ وَإِيَّاكَ نَسۡتَعِينُ (You alone we worship, and You alone we ask for help)

This verse underscores the essence of Tawhid (monotheism)—total reliance and devotion to Allah in worship and seeking assistance.

Commentary: Al-Razi explains, “By placing ‘You alone’ before ‘we worship,’ the verse emphasizes the exclusivity of Allah’s right to be worshiped and sought for help.”

Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“If you ask, then ask Allah; and if you seek help, seek help from Allah.”
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2516)

5. A Supplication for Guidance

ٱهۡدِنَا ٱلصِّرَٰطَ ٱلۡمُسۡتَقِيمَ (Guide us to the Straight Path)

The Straight Path (As-Sirat al-Mustaqeem) represents the way of truth, righteousness, and submission to Allah.

Commentary: According to Al-Baghawi, this prayer encompasses guidance in knowledge, deeds, and steadfastness on the path leading to Allah.

Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ frequently made the dua:
“O Allah, guide me to the Straight Path among those You have guided…”
(Sunan an-Nasa’i, Hadith 1301)

6. Avoiding Misguidance

صِرَٰطَ ٱلَّذِينَ أَنۡعَمۡتَ عَلَيۡهِمۡ غَيۡرِ ٱلۡمَغۡضُوبِ عَلَيۡهِمۡ وَلَا ٱلضَّآلِّينَ (The path of those You have blessed, not of those who have earned Your anger or gone astray)

This verse distinguishes between the guided (those who receive Allah’s favor) and the misguided:

Al-Maghdoub Alayhim: Those who know the truth but reject it (e.g., the disbelieving People of the Book).

Ad-Dalleen: Those who are lost due to ignorance or negligence.

Commentary: Ibn Kathir and others mention that this verse serves as a reminder to follow the example of the righteous and avoid the ways of those who deviate.

Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ clarified:
“The Jews are those who have earned Allah’s anger, and the Christians are those who have gone astray.”
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2954)

Significance of Surah Al-Fatiha

1. Foundation of Salah: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There is no prayer for the one who does not recite the Opening of the Book (Al-Fatiha).” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 756)
2. A Conversation with Allah: According to Hadith Qudsi:
Allah says: “I have divided the prayer between Myself and My servant into two halves, and My servant shall have what he asks for…” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 395)
3. Comprehensive Message: It encapsulates monotheism, Allah’s attributes, accountability, worship, and the need for guidance.

Surah Al-Fatiha is the essence of the Quran, a complete dua, and the gateway to divine mercy. It reminds believers of their purpose, dependence on Allah, and the importance of remaining steadfast on the path of righteousness. As a conversation between Allah and His servant, its recitation carries immense spiritual weight and significance.

16/11/2024

Follow Righteous Travel and Tours Tilawat Qur’an posting and you are also be rewarded. May Allah accept this as our small good deeds. Ameen!

15/11/2024

In Sha Allah!

12/11/2024

08/11/2024

Surah Al-Ahzab (33:56):

“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [Allah to grant him] peace.”

This verse highlights the exalted status of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Islam. Allah Himself, along with His angels, sends blessings upon the Prophet, indicating his importance and honor in the sight of Allah. Believers are commanded to follow this example by invoking peace and blessings upon him as an act of love, respect, and obedience.

Rewards of Sending Salawat (Blessings) upon the Prophet:

1. Increased Proximity to the Prophet: Whoever sends blessings upon the Prophet frequently will be closer to him on the Day of Judgment.

2. Forgiveness of Sins: Every time a believer sends blessings upon the Prophet, Allah forgives their sins and showers them with mercy.

3. Multiplication of Rewards: Each salawat brings multiple blessings and rewards from Allah, making it an act that strengthens a believer’s relationship with Him.

4. Answered Prayers: Salawat is known to increase the chances of having one’s supplications accepted by Allah.

5. Peace of Heart: Regularly sending salawat is said to bring peace and tranquility to a believer’s heart and life.

Reciting this verse and practicing sending blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a way to gain immense spiritual reward, elevate one’s status in the hereafter, and increase closeness to the Prophet and Allah.