BISMILLAH IR-RAHMAN IR- RAHIM

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH MOST BENEFICENT, MOST MERCIFUL

Tonight’s Taraweeh consists of the last quarter of Lan tanâlû to the end of Wa l-Muhsanât. The Sûrah covered is the first three-quarterof Al-Nisâ’ (The Women). This Sûrah is closely connected with the previous Sûrah as far as the period in which these two Sûrahs were revealed, is concerned. The subject matter of this Sûrah deals with the social problems which the Muslim community had to face immediately after the Battle of Uhad. The principles laid down in this Sûrah have always been regarded as Muslim law and social practice for all Muslims at all times.


Broadly speaking, this Sûrah can be divided into two parts: (1) that dealing with family life in general – the rights of women and orphans. Laws dealing with inheritance, marriage, and family rights generally are also discussed; (2) that dealing with the larger family, i.e. the community at Madîna, and those disobedient people in this larger family, viz. the hypocrites and the Jews. Hence, in this Sûrah regulations are laid down for both our private law and our attitude to our territorial neighbours. The Sûrah begins with an appeal to the unity of mankind since Allah (SWT) created mankind “from one soul”. Women and orphans have certain rights, these must always be fulfilled. A great deal of justice must be used in our dealings with them. The sexes must honour each other. Family relationships that are caused by marriage and the subsequent birth of children are healthy and in agreement with Allah (SWT)’s pleasure. This leads to the discussion of Laws of Inheritance, indicating once more, that our justice should extend to the distribution of the wealth of our family members. In short, follow Allah (SWT)’s commandments at all times – while our family members are alive as well when they are no longer with us. This principle of goodness should be extended to all beings, big and small. Certain rights of women deserve mention at this stage: (a) treatment: “Nor should you treat them harshly, that you may take away part of the dower you have given them (and thus gain a marriage annulment) – except when they have been guilty of open loose habits”. Live with them on a footing “of kindness”. Be tolerant towards them. “If you take a dislike to them it may be that you dislike a thing while Allah (SWT) wishes to bring a lot of good through it”; (b) purpose of marriage must be “to desire chastity (good moral habits), not to satisfy your sex appetites”. Further, the Qur’ân states: “Men are the protectors and maintainers of women”. In return, a woman must be devoutly obedient, and guard in (her husband’s) absence what Allah (SWT) wants them to guard”; i.e. her respect, and his property and reputation. Disobedient members of the larger family are now discussed. The Jews are accused of indulging in twisting words to make fun of the teaching of Allah (SWT), and believing in magic and evil. The hypocrites are also warned. 

The only remedy for these people is to “make Muhammad (SAW) the judge….and accept (his) decisions with the fullest confidence”. The Muslims must always be armed in self-defence against their enemies, as well as against the hypocrites. The deserters should be slain. The lives of Muslims are sacred; therefore “a Believer should never kill another Believer”. If one is slain by mistake, full compensation should be made. Be not hasty to condemn a stranger as a non-believer if he greets you, even in time of war; rather investigate the matter before passing judgement. Don’t live in places hostile to Islam, if you are able to migrate; because Allah (SWT)’s earth is very spacious. Shorten your prayers in times of danger and on journeys. Take all steps to maintain your safety; but if danger threatens you, then fight bravely. Don’t follow the wrong path, seeing that Allah (SWT)’s guidance (the Qur’ân) has already been sent down. Any evil that man does is for the harm of his own soul. The Muslims may work in secrecy when: (a) giving charity, (b) practicing justice (because there is no good in publicising and thereby humiliating a criminal), and (c) when there is a touchy issue dividing two quarrelling parties whom we intend bringing on to speaking terms. The only sin that Allah (SWT) does not forgive is polytheism (i.e. joining partners with Him). Being just to women and orphans is part of faith. Justice must be practised, even if the eventual verdict is against yourselves or your family members. Have a firm faith, cast aside evil and hypocrisy. Speak the truth, and do not hurt other’s feeling. All Apostles brought only the message of Allah (SWT); thus do not say: “We believe in (the teachings of) some but reject (the teaching of) others”.

Night 4 - 1430 Taraweeh Audio Coming Soon