www. ramadancompet i t i on. com www. mus l i mv i l l e. com An educational program to spend Ramadan in a planned & Islamic way s e e
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d e t a i l s Participate Online 13th Annual MuslimVille Ramadan Competition 2 0 14 T h e m e : my friend Hamza eing a daughter or son, brother or sister, neighbour, friend, with good manners is very important to being a good Muslim in Islam. The Prophet peace be upon him says, the most beloved of Allahs servants to Allah are those with the best manners. The Prophet peace be upon him is our example for the best of manners. He was kind to his neighbours, respected his elders, was nice to those younger, gave wholeheartedly, was humble, never spoke harshly, and always told the truth! We should follow Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him to become the best of Muslims and have the best of manners, so that we can be closer to Allah. Master of Manners Becoming a These for you grandma Jazakallah Isma! I cant wait to give this toy to ! Musa, Assalamu Alaikum! Oh! Walaikum Assalam Yusuf! MuslimVille Education Center is a registered non-proft organization. We are dedicated to Muslim youth and childrens of all age. We have one goal, and that is to please Allah, and no one else. We plan to help youths and children of the Muslim world to build an Ideal Community, and help them to come closer to Allah. MuslimVille 66 Commodore Drive Brampton, Ontario, L6X 0S6 Canada info@muslimville.com www.muslimville.com www.ramadancompetition.com www.littlesadaqa.com facebook.com/MuslimvilleEducationCenter The Programs GRAND PRIZE SPECIAL PRIZE PARTICIPATION About the Competition Register online for the competition by going to www.ramadancompetition. com. Registration is free! Mark the important dates on your calendar for submitting the reports and test day. Important dates: Smart-Cool Week: July 12-18 Islamic Knowledge Test: July 27 Deadline to submit reports online: August 1 Page 3 ACTIVITIES CHALLENGE : Increase the good activities you do during the month of Ramadan. Page 5 SMART-COOL WEEK : Increase your productivity, creativity, and learning. Page 6 LITTLE SADAQA IN RAMADAN : Care for orphans. Page 7 ISLAMIC KNOWLEDGE COMPETITION : Increase your Islamic knowledge. $ MuslimVille Ramadan Competition is for children in Junior Kindergarten to grade 8. The series of programs Activities Challenge, Smart-Cool Week, Little Sadaqa in Ramadan and Knowledge Competition are designed to keep you and your children actively engaged during the month of Ramadan. The competition seeks to expand your childs Islamic knowledge and activities. The holy month of Ramadan was chosen for this competition because it gives parents and teachers a unique opportunity to come closer to their children and students. We fnd ourselves being more conscious of doing good, setting goals to become better Muslims, and building habits we hope to carry out for the rest of the year. First organized in Toronto in the year 2002, this competition has now drawn in participants from all over the world. The program is offered online and organized by our volunteers in various cities. To organize the competition in your school, masjid or community contact info@muslimville.com. How to Participate 1 2 Tablet PC! Awarded to the overall best participant of the competition. To qualify for the Grand Prize, you must participate in all four programs. Gift pack of the following values: $100 (frst place) $75 (second place) $50 (third place) Awarded to the 3 best participants in each program! Participation Prize: Awarded to all participants who participate in all four programs. Certifcate of Appreciation: Awarded to everyone for their efforts. PRIZES Keep track of all the good activities that you do each day for the whole month of Ramadan. Each activity that you do is worth a certain amount of points. Use the point system on page 4 to assign points for an activity. At the end of each day, add up the points that you have collected by doing good activities. For example, if you performed all 5 prayers, donated $1 to the mosque, and memorized 1 verse from the Quran in a day, you will have earned a total of 45 points (25+10+15) according to the point system. Note your added up points for the day on the Activities Challenge calender online at www.ramadancompetition.com. An example of the calendar is shown on page 4. The next day, try to increase the good activities you do so you can collect more points! Submit your calendar online at the end of the Ramadan by August 1 to MuslimVille. You will also have to submit an Activities Challenge report online by August 1. NOTE TO PARENTS: Encourage your child to be more active as a Muslim. Encourage them to maintain the Ramadan Activities calendar and keep track of all their good activities during the month of Ramadan. the age of the participant will be taken into consideration while evaluating their point collection. Activi ties Challenge Activities Challenge Point System 15 Points : Five daily prayers on time (Kids under 8 may receive 5 points per salah) Memorization an Ayah from the Quran Memorization of a Hadith Memorization of a supplication/ Dua Studying the Islamic Knowledge Competition Study notes (page 7) for at least 15 minutes. 10 Points : Attending an all-day Islamic program Attending weekend Islamic school Participating in an Islamic program (such as volunteering/delivering lecture/ presentation) Writing an Islamic story poetry/article Volunteering in a mosque or any Islamic program Donating from your own money Drawing Islamic pictures Preparing Islamic Posters 5 Points : Attending a half-day Islamic program Not watching TV for the day Helping parents during Iftar Helping parents during Suhur Visiting a sick person *Reciting an Ayah of Quran. *Reciting a Hadith *Reading one page of an Islamic literature 4 Points : Memorizing an Islamic song poem Telling an Islamic story to younger brother or sister Inviting a friend to an Islamic program Visiting and Islamic Web-page 2 Points Helping parents for more than 1/2 hour Cleaning own room Gardening 1/2 to 1 hour Cleaning teeth at least 2 times Sharing game/toys with others **Reciting verses from Quran (2 points per verse) **Reading Islamic literature (2 points per page) NOTES: *(for kids of age under 8) **(for kids of age above 8) 3 You will have to submit the completed calendar and fll out an Activities Challenge report online at www.ramadancompetition.com by August 1. Ramadan Activities Challenge Calendar Check off for Quran memorization/recitation, fasting and Islamic Readings. Check off for Salat 1 F S B Q D A M I 2 F S B Q D A M I 3 F S B Q D A M I 4 F S B Q D A M I 5 F S B Q D A M I 6 F S B Q D A M I 7 F S B Q D A M I 8 F S B Q D A M I 9 F S B Q D A M I 10 F S B Q D A M I 11 F S B Q D A M I 12 F S B Q D A M I 13 F S B Q D A M I 14 F S B Q D A M I 15 F S B Q D A M I 16 F S B Q D A M I 17 F S B Q D A M I 18 F S B Q D A M I 19 F S B Q D A M I 20 F S B Q D A M I 21 F S B Q D A M I 22 F S B Q D A M I 23 F S B Q D A M I 24 F S B Q D A M I 25 F S B Q D A M I 26 F S B Q D A M I 27 F S B Q D A M I 28 F S B Q D A M I 29 F S B Q D A M I 30 F S B Q D A M I Q = Quran B = Islamic Readings S = Sawm (Fasting) F = Fajr D = Duhr A = Asr M = Maghrib I = Isha MY RAMADAN CALENDAR 1432 Hijri / 2010 AC 4 Ramadan Activities Challenge Report *Days I fasted this Ramadan: _______ I am too young to fast, however I tried to fast: more than 10 days 9 to 5 days 1 to 4 days
I did not try Number of verses from the Quran memorized: _____ Number of Hadiths memorized: _______ Number of duas memorized: _______ Number of Islamic songs/poems memorized: ______ Number of nights I attended Taraweeh prayer at the mosque: _______ I helped my parents more than 1/2 hour: daily sometimes never I cleaned my room (circle): daily sometimes never I helped my parents during Iftar or Suhur: daily sometimes never I cleaned my teeth at least twice a day: daily sometimes never Number of Eid Greeting Cards I sent (circle): more than 10 9 to 5 1 to 4 none *I volunteered at the mosque or any Islamic event: more than 10 days 9 to 5 1 to 4 none *Number of Islamic story/poetry/article I wrote:____ I donated from my own pocket money: Yes No
Numbers of drawings/posters on Ramadan I made: _______
Number of Islamic books I read during Ramadan: ___ Time spent getting prepared for the MuslimVille Ramadan Competition per day on average: more than 30 minutes more than 15 minutes
less than 15 minutes I marked My Ramadan Calendar: daily sometimes never
* For grade 3 to 8 students only. Activities Challenge Total points : 5 Smar t-Cool Week Saturday July 12 to Friday July 18, 2014 is Smart-Cool Week. In this week turn off of your television, do not play games on your devices or spend screen-time on your devices watching movies or shows. Plan ahead to devote this week to your creativity, productivity and learning. Plan to do extra good activities that week and make an Islamic project or artwork. For example, you can: E-mail your work to smartcoolweek@muslimville. com by directly sending the fle it or taking a picture. You are encouraged to include a description of your project as well. By the end of Ramadan, fll up the Smart-Cool Week Report online at www.ramadancompetition. com and submit it by August 1 to MuslimVille. I did not watch TV I did not play computer/video games I made a project (other activity) I did not watch TV I did not play computer/video games I made a project (other activity) I did not watch TV I did not play computer/video games I made a project (other activity) I did not watch TV I did not play computer/video games I made a project (other activity) I did not watch TV I did not play computer/video games I made a project (other activity) I did not watch TV I did not play computer/video games I made a project (other activity) I did not watch TV I did not play computer/video games I made a project (other activity) July 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 July 12-18 make a model make a powerpoint presentation make a computer drawing draw a picture write an article write a song write a poem keep a journal Little Sadaqa in Ramadan is a joint campaign with ICNA Relief Canada. visit www.littlesadaqa.com more information 6 The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, said, The one who cares for an orphan and myself will be together in Paradise like this, and he held his two fngers together. $ This is a program by the children for the children to encourage caring for others. Throughout Ramadan, children raise money for the needy and the poor. Their efforts are used to provide food, shelter, healthcare, education and emotional support to orphans around the world through ICNA Relief Canada. Since 2006, the donations from our participants is being used to sponsor 27 orphans from Canada, Indonesia, Kashmir, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Kenya. Little Sadaqa in Ramadan Make your own donation box or order MyLittleSadaqa box online from www.littlesadaqa.com to store the collected funds. Start collecting money from the frst day of Ramadan by donating frst from your own pocket. Keep your donation box in a place where everyone can see it and be reminded to contribute. Tell visitors to your home about the program and ask them to donate. At the end of Ramadan, count your collected funds and fll out the This Ramadan Sponsor an Orphan Report Form online by August 1. Ask your guardian to send a cheque for the amount you collected to ICNA Relief Canada, 1-620 Montevideo Rd, Mississauga, Ontario, L5N 3W5. Please do not send cash/coin by mail as it may get lost. How to participate 1 2 3 4 5 6 Group A - JK to SK Participants in this group will have a verbal test based on the following notes. Questions for JK and SK will be different. Memorization : Surah: Fatiha, Asr, Nas, Kawsar, Ikhlas Kalima: AS HADU AL LA ILLAHA ILLALLAH WA ASHHADU ANNA MUHAMMADUR RASUL ULLAH Dua/Dhikr: Learn what to say and when: Practicing Islam : Learn the steps for performing Wudu (ablutions) and Salah. Basics of Islam : Who made us? Allah made us. Who is Allah? Allah is our creator. He is the creator of everything. Does Allah have a father or a mother? No, Allah has no father or mother. Does Allah have any sons or daughters? No, Allah has no sons or daughters Can you hide anything from Allah? No. Allah knows everything and can see everything we do. Can you name at least 3 other Islamic Knowledge Competition 7 This program aims to expand your Islamic knowledge. Participants should study from the notes prepared by MuslimVille below, and memorize the Surah, Duas and other items listed for their group during the month of Ramadan. The study notes are unique for every year and separate for every age group. This program is a great way to be engaged in Islamic learning during the month of Ramadan. In addition, learning from the study notes is a great way to collect points for the Ramadan Activities Challenge! At the end of Ramadan, on July 27, there will be a written or verbal Final Test depending on your grade to test your Islamic knowledge. You will also have to complete a Study Evaluation Sheet online by July 25. FINAL TEST (50 MARKS) : Online (for Grades 3 to 8): Sunday July 27, 2014 10 A.M. EST to 1 P.M. Participants can start anytime between 10am and 1pm, but must fnish within 1 hour of the start time. Visit www. ramadancompetition.com for a sample test. Participants will be provided with a password to access the test. Verbal (JK to Grade 2): MuslimVille will conduct the test over the phone on Sunday July 27, 2014 10 A.M. EST to 1 P.M. Participants will be contacted during this period of time for the verbal test which will take 15 to 20 minutes for each participant. The verbal test is a random set of questions and recitations from the study notes. EVALUATION SHEET (50 MARKS) : Participants have to submit an Evaluation Sheet online. This an open book quiz based on the study notes. Participants are also advised to study the Book of Manners available online at www.ramadancompetition.com. The Evaluation Sheet must be submitted online by July 25. Note: Participants must understand that they have to answer the questions on their own. Study Notes What to say When to say it Bismillah hir Rahmanir Rahim Before starting something Alhamdulillah something Rabbi thidni Ilma Dua for knowledge Rabbir hamhuma kama rabbayani sageera Dua for parents Bismika Allahumma Amutu wa ahya Dua before going to bed Allahumma inni audhu bikaminal khubuthi wal khabaith Dua before entering the washroom Ghufranaka Dua upon leaving the washroom Assalamu Alaikum When we meet each other 8 names of Allah? As-Samad, Ar- Rahman, Ar-Rahim, Ar-Razzak, Al- Qayyum, Al-Quddus. Who is our Prophet? Muhammad (S) is our Prophet. Who is the Mother of Muhammad (s)? Amina Who is the father of Muhammad (s)? Abdullah What do we have to say after the name of our Prophet? We have to say Sallallahu alaihi Wasalam after the name of our prophet. What are the names of the 5 daily Prayers? Fajr, Duhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha. Group B : Grade 1 & 2 Participants in this group must also study Group A notes. They will have a verbal test based on the notes . Questions for Grade 1 and 2 will be different. Memorization : Surah: Fatiha, Asr, Nas, Kawsar, Ikhlas, Surah Falaq, Lahab, Nasr & Kafrun Kalima: AS HADU AL LA ILLAHA ILLALLAH WA ASHHADU ANNA MUHAMMADUR RASUL ULLAH Dua/Dhikr: Learn what to say with meaning and when Basics of Islam : Learn about Allah The meaning of Allahu Akbar- Allah is the Greatest The meaning of Subhan Allah - Glory be to Allah The meaning of Bismillah In the name of Allah The meaning of Al Hamdu lillah - All praises are for Allah We are Allahs servants. Allah is our Lord and Master. Allah will be pleased with us if we do the following: Pray 5 times daily. Respect our parents. Remember Allah at all times. Read the Quran. Help the needy. Be kind to everyone, including animals. Always keep promises. Learn about Prophets. Prophets of Allah are: Adam(A) Idris(A), Nuh(A), Hud(A), Salih(A), Ibrahim(A), Harun(A), Ismail(A), Ishaq(A), Lut(A), Yaqub(A), Yusuf(A), Shuaib(A), Ayyub(A), Musa(A), Dhul-kif(A), Dawud(A), Sulaiman(A), Ilias(A), Al-Yasa(A), Yunus(A), Zakariyya(A), Yahya(A), Isa(A) and Muhammad (S). Adam (A) is the frst Prophet. Muhammad (S) is the last Prophet of Allah. We have to say Sallallahu alaihi Wasalam after the name of Prophet Muhammad. We have to say Alaihis salam after the name of other Prophets. Muhammad (S) was born in Mecca. Learn about the Quran The Quran is the book of Allah. Allah sent the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (s) through Angel Jibrail. The frst Surah of the Quran is Surah Fatiha. The last Surah is Surah An Nas. The Smallest surah is Surah Kawsar. Other small surahs are Surah Ikhlas and Surah Asr. Practicing Islam Learn how to pray Learn the steps for performing Wudu (ablution) Learn the steps for performing Salah (prayer) Learn the timings for the 5 daily prayers Learn how to call the Adhan Islamic Morals and Etiquettes : Participants are advised to study the Book of Manners prepared by MuslimVille and available at www.ramadancompetition.com Good manners for daily living What should we do when we meet someone? We should greet them with a smile Say Assalamu Alaikum in greeting Respond with Walaikum Assalam if they greet you frst How do we be good with food? We begin with Bismillah We eat with our right hand We only take what we can fnish We do not waste our food We share what we can We say Alhamdulillah when we are fnished How do we be good with going to the washroom? Before entering the washroom we say Allahumma inni audhu bikaminal khubuthi wal khabaith We use water to clean our private parts We use our left hand to clean ourselves We do not leave a mess We say Ghufranaka when we leave What do we do when someone gives us a gift? We should say JazakAllah What should we say before we begin to do something? We should begin everything with Bismillah What should we do when making a promise? We should not break our promise We should say InshaAllah What to say Meaning When to say it Yarhamuka-Allah May Allah bless you We say this when we hear someone sneeze Assalamu Alaikum Peace be on you When we meet each other Walaikum Assalam Peace be on you too We say this in reply to Assalamu Alaikum Insha-Allah If Allah wishes We say this when we hope to do something in the future or when we make a promise Subhan-Allah Glory be to Allah We say this to praise someone or when we see something amazing Masha-Allah Allah has willed it We say this on happy occasions, when hearing good news or when giving appreciation to someone. Fi Amanillah In the protection of Allah We say this when we bid someone farewell Jazak-Allahu Khairan May Allah give you the best reward We say this to thank someone I seek Allahs forgiveness We say this when we feel sorry for something bad we thought, said or did Audhubillahi minash shaitanur razim I seek refuge in Allah from shaytan We say this before reciting the Quran. We also say this when seeking Allahs protection from Shaytan (the devil) so that he cannot trick us 9 Group C : Grades 3 & 4 Participants in this group must also study Group B notes. They will have a written test based on the notes. Questions for Grade 3 and 4 will be different. Basics of Islam Islam means to obey Allah and follow his command. If we obey Allah and do as he commands then we will have peace. That is why Islam also means peace. Islam teaches us to live a good life on this earth. It tells us how to live as good people. Islam shows us the right way. If we follow Islam, we achieve peace. We came to know about Islam from the Messengers and Prophets of Allah. A Muslim is a person who follows Islam. A Muslim always tries to do good. They speak the truth, they do not lie, they helps others, and cares for the old and needy. A Muslim does not like bad things. They do as Allah commands. We feel proud to be Muslims. Iman means belief or faith. To be a good Muslim, we must believe in: 1. Allah 2. Angels of Allah (Malaikah) 3. Book of Allah (Kitabullah) 4. Messengers of Allah (Rasulullah) 5. The day of Judgement (Yawmuddin) 6. Predestination or Supremacy of divine will (Al-Qadr) 7. Life after Death (Akhirah) A person who has Iman is called a Mumin. Muslims have 5 basic duties: 1. Shahadah (The declaration of faith) 2. Salah (Five compulsory daily prayers) 3. Zakah (Welfare contribution) 4. Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan) 5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah) Shahadah A person becomes Muslim by reciting and believing in the Shahadah. The Shahadah is LA ILAHA ILLAL LAHU MUHAMMADUR RASULUL LAH. This means: There is no God But Allah, and Muhammad (s) is the messenger of Allah. Salah We offer Salah to remember Allah, to be close to Him and to gain His favour. Salah helps us to do the good and give up the bad. Zakah Islam says the poor and the needy have rights to the wealth of the rich. Islam therefore commands every Muslim to pay welfare money (Zakah) to the needy and for good causes. Sawm Every grown-up Muslim is required to fast during the month of Ramadan. Fasting begins at day break and ends at sunset. During this period of time, eating and drinking is not allowed and we should refrain from doing bad. Sawm is a means for spiritual training and development. It helps one to resist temptations and to have self-discipline in life. Hajj Hajj or the Pilgrimage, is visiting the Kabah at least once in your lifetime if you can afford it. The Kabah is the house of Allah, located in the city of Makkah . Muslims gather in Makkah in the month of Zul-Hijjah to worship Allah. This special worship lasts for several days. The Hajj brings Muslims from all over the world, of all colours and races to one place the Kabah. This strengthens the spirit of unity, equality and brotherhood in Islam. Prophet Muhammad (S) Muhammad (S) is our prophet. Muhammad(S) was born into the noble tribe of the Quraysh in Makkah, Arabia in the year 570 CE (Christian era). His father, Abdullah, died before his birth. His mother, Aminah, died when he was only six. A few days after his birth he was given to the care of Halimah, his foster mother. It was the custom of the tribe of Quraysh to give their newborn babies to foster mothers for breast feeding. Muhammad (S) was with Halimah for two years. After the death of his mother, his grandfather, Abdul Muttalib looked after him. His grandfather died when Muhammad (S) was only 8 years old. Muhammad (S) was then looked after by his uncle Abu Talib. The name Muhammad (S) means praiseworthy. At the age of 40, Muhammad (S) was given the frst revelation from Allah through angel Jibrail. He became the prophet of Allah. For the next 23 years of his life he preached the teachings of Allah. Important teachings of Prophet Muhammad (S) Prophet Muhammad (S) asked people to worship Allah alone. He taught love and brotherhood. He asked his followers to be kind and polite towards both children and elderly, and to help one another. He stopped people from harming one another. He asked us to always be truthful, and to practice what we preach. He established Truth, Justice and the Islamic Society. Hadiths are the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (S) recorded by his followers after his death. Practicing Islam : Salah Learn how to perform Wudu and Salah (prayer). What do we have to do to prepare for Salah? What is the importance of Niya (intention) for Salah? What is the Qibla? Why do we have to face the Qibla during Salah? What is Qiyam? What do we say when we are in Qiyam and what does that mean? What is Ruku? What do we say when we are in Ruku and what does that mean? What is Sujud? What do we say when we are in Sujud and what does that mean? Study of the Quran : Memorize the last 15 Surahs of the Quran and learn the meaning of their names. Learn the meaning of Surah Fatiha. Learn some important verses of the Quran Al-Baqarah, verse 2 Dhalik al- kitabu la raiba f-hi, hudal lil-uttaqin (This book, the Quran, has no doubts about it at all; it guides to right path those who are Muttaqin) Al-Imran, verse 19 - Inn ad-dina ind Allah il-Islam (Surely the true religion with Allah is Islam) Study of Hadith : Learn these two hadiths: Salah & Taharah The Prophet (S) said, The key to Paradise is Salah (fve daily prayers) and key to Salah is Taharah (purity- performing wudu). Mentioned in Mishkat Intention (Niyah) The Prophet (S) said, Action shall be judged only by intention; a man shall get what he intends. Mentioned in Bukhari Islamic Morals and Etiquettes : Participants are advised to study the Book of Manners prepared by MuslimVille and available at www. ramadancompetition.com Having Good Character Allah loves us when we are good people: When we always tell the truth Be kind to animals Always say nice things, do not make fun of others Be humble Do not be wasteful of food, water, buying too many things Give Sadaqah (charity) When we wait our turn patiently When we say our please and thank yous When we do not make fun of others When we say our duas at the right moment Treating Others with Kindness What is the importance of showing Study Notes Study Notes 10 respect to others? Showing respect to others is a means of getting respect from other. Islam teaches us to respect our parents, teachers, relatives and neighbours. We should respect our friends, our younger brothers and sisters. How does Islam want us to be with our parents? We should respect and be kind to them To show love and gratitude to them To speak to them kindly To listen to them and try to please them to make them happy To pray for them and ask Allah to forgive them We should make dua for them, (dua for parents) Rabbir hamhuma kama rabbayani sageera What does the Quran says about treating our parents? Allah says in the Quran, And your Lord has commanded that you worship non but Him and that you be kind to your parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, do not say to them (so much as an) Uff! or speak to them rudely but address them in terms of honour, and out of kindness lower to them you wing of humility and say, My Lord and Sustainer, have mercy on them both as they nurtured, cherished and sustained me in childhood. (Surah Al-Isra, verse 23-24) In particular, we need to be good and kind to our mother who gave birth to us, and who took care of us when we were a helpless baby. What does the Prophet (s) say about treating our parents? A man came to the Prophet and asked, Oh messenger of Allah! Who deserves the best care from me? The Prophet replied, Your mother. The man asked who came next and the Prophet replied, Your mother. He asked who came next and the Prophet replied, Your mother. He asked again who came next and the Prophet replied, Your father, then your relatives in order of relationship. How does Islam want us to be with our friends? We should befriend those who have good manners We should help friends whenever they need help We should not abuse our friends We should treat them with good manners and share our knowledge with them Give gifts and visit them to strengthen friendships. Be generous in giving How does Islam want us to be with our neighbours? To know our neighbours and to be kind to them To help them however we can To congratulate them if they meet good Sympathise with them if anything bad should happen to them Do not try to make them jealous Do not disrupt them Should visit them when they are sick Should be polite with them and not quarrel Should not be jealous of them but should celebrate their happiness Should help them when they are in trouble How does Islam want us to be with the elderly? We should be nice to them and help them How does Allah want us to be with animals? We should not hurt them, but treat them with kindness How does Islam want us to be with the needy? We should care for them and help them however we can To treat the needy (the poor, the orphans) with mercy and kindness The Prophet used to give them whatever he could, even though he himself was poor. Is money the only form of Sadaqah? No, All acts of goodness and kindness is an act of Sadaqah: Remembering Allah Doing good and staying away from wrong Removing harm from the road Helping someone sick Smiling when you see someone Allah makes it mandatory upon us to give sadaqah, and there are many many ways to give sadaqah, not just by donating from your money. Group D : Grades 5 & 6 Participants in this group must also study Group C notes. They will have a written test based on the notes. Questions for Grade 5 and 6 will be different. Basics of Islam : Belief in Allah: One, who believes in Allah, believes that: There is no God but Allah. Allah is ONE and ALMIGHTY. There is no one like Allah. Allah has no children and no partner. Allah has been there from the beginning, and will always be existing. Allah will never die. He knows everything. He sees everything. He is the creator of the Universe. He is our Lord. Allah is the Greatest and Most- Merciful. He is the Most-Kind and Most-Loving. Allah has provided us with everything. He created us as the best. He sent prophets to guide us and to tell us how to obey him; how to live like good human beings and be happy and successful. Belief in Angels of Allah: Angels are created by Allah. They are Allahs servants, they obey Allahs commands and carry out his orders. We cannot see them, they do not have a body like us. If Allah wills they can take any shape. We know the name of some angels through the Quran and Prophet Muhammad (S). They are Jibrael (Gabriel), Azrail (Azrael), Israfl, Mikaail (Michael), Ridwan, Munkar and Nakir. Angel Jibrail brought the Message of Allah to Prophet Muhammad (S). Belief in Books of Allah: Allah taught us how to live, to obey and worship Him. This guidance was given through Prophets in the form of revelations. The revelations given to the Prophets have always guided mankind. The revelation given to prophet Muhammad (S) is called the Quran. A Muslim believes in all the revealed Books. They are the Tawrat (Torah) to Musa (Moses), Jabur (Psalms) to Dawud (David), Injil (Gospel) to Isa (Jesus), and the Quran to Muhammad (S). The Quran also mentions Suhuf-i-Ibrahim (Scrolls of Abraham). But the Books given to the Prophets before Muhammad (S) were not fully preserved, some were lost and others were changed by people. Allahs words were mixed with mans ideas. Belief in the Messengers of Allah: Allah sent His guidance through the Prophets. They were men of great virtue and character. Their lives were truly pure and honourable. They are role models for mankind. They taught us how to obey Allah, our Creator. None of the Prophets claimed to be God. They themselves obeyed Allah and invited others to obey Him. Allah sent Prophets to all people at different times. All of the Prophets preached the same message of God. They preached peace and justice. While preaching the message of God, the Prophets were tortured, betrayed and ignored by the disbelievers. Study Notes Study Notes However, the good people of their time followed the Prophets with their heart and soul. The Prophets gathered the good people and taught them how to obey and worship God. Prophets mentioned in the Quran are also believed to be Prophets by Christians and Jews. The Quran mentioned the name of 25 Prophets. The following are the Quranic names and English names (in bracket) of Prophets mentioned in the Quran: Adam, Idris (Enoch), Nuh (Noah), Hud (Heber), Saleh (Shelah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Lut (Lot), Ismail (Ishmael), Ishaq (Isaac), Yaqub (Jacob), Yusuf (Joseph), Ayyub (Job), Shoaib (Jethro), Musa (Moses), Harun (Aaron), Dhul-Kif (possibly Ezekiel or Gautama Buddha), Dawud (David), Sulayman (Solomon), Ilyas (Elijah), Al-Yasa (Elisha), Yunus (Jonah), Zakariya (Zacharias), Yahya (John the Baptist), Isa (Jesus) and Muhammad. Life after death: Our life in this world is temporary. Everyone has to die. Death is a natural event. Muslims believes that Allah will bring an end to this world and the extinction of all the creatures in this world. After the end, all human beings will be brought back to life and their deeds in the world will be judged. This great day is known as Yawm al-Qiyamah (Day of the Raising of the Dead). The Quran has other names of this day. Those are given below: Yawm al-Din (Day of Judgment) Yawm al-Taghabun (Day of Loss and Gain) Yawm al-Bath (Day of Resurrection-to bring something to life) Yawm al-Hisab (Day of Reckoning- accountability) Yawm al-Haqqah (The day which is Inevitable)
In the Day of Judgment every person will be judged by Allah alone based on their actions in this world. Those who worship Allah and do good deeds in this world will be granted paradise. The Arabic word for paradise is Jannah. Those who disobey Allah willingly in this world and do not ask for forgiveness will be punished, the punishment will be hell. The Arabic word for hell is Jahannam. This life after death is called Akhirah. Belief in Akhirah has a great impact in the life of a believer. A believer knows that Allah is watching all their actions and that they will have to account for them on the Day of Judgment. Their conduct and behaviour in this life will be responsible, controlled and careful. To prepare for that day and to be rewarded by our Lord, we need to do all that Allah demand of us and give up all the bad habits and wrong actions. We can do this if we follow the guidance given to our Prophet Muhammad (S) by Allah. This is the safest course for our success in this life, and in our life after death.
Al-Quran Muslims follow the Quran. The words of the Quran are fully preserved in its original form. Not a single word of it has been changed or lost. It is found today exactly as it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (S). A Muslim believes in all the Books of Allah, but because the earlier Books are lost or have been changed, a Muslim follows the Quran only. Allah has guaranteed the protection of the Quran. The meaning of word Quran is the reading or that which is to be read. The other names of the Quran, mentioned in the Quran itself, are: Al-Furqan (the Criterion between right and wrong) Kitabullah (the Book of Allah) Kalamullah (the words of Allah) Al-Jibar (the Message of Allah) The Quran is the guidance from our Lord, Allah. The Arabic word for guidance is Hidayah. Allah wants to guide men and women through revelation (wahi). It is the prophets who received the revelations and then they conveyed those to their followers. Revelations were sent to Prophets in different ways: Revelation by inspiration (like a dream). For example, Allah guided Prophet Ibrahim (A) to sacrifce his son. Revelation by speech (behind the scene). For example, Allah spoke to Prophet Musa (A) in the mountain of Torah. Revelation through Angel. For example, Allah revealed the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (S) through angel Jibrail. The frst revelation of the Quran was 5 verses from Surah al-Alaq. Read in the name of your Lord, Who created man from a clot of blood. Read and your Lord is most Bountiful, Who taught (the use of) the pen, He taught man which he knew not. The words of the Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (S) throughout the last 23 years of his life. The Prophet used to memorize those and told his companions to memorize its words. The revelations were written down by his followers. During the time of Caliphat Abu Bakr (R), all those words and sentences were collected in the form of a book and were arranged following the direction given by the Prophet Muhammad (S). Among the Muslims there are always some people who memorize the whole Quran by heart. The Quran would always be preserved by memorization and printing. The teachings of the Quran: The Quran teaches us how to serve and worship Allah. It tells us how to live a life of virtue. It tells us how to behave in the home. It tells us how to treat our parents, brothers and sisters, relatives, friends, neighbours and strangers. The Quran tells us how to become good men and women. The Quran tells us the story of previous nations. It tells us the stories of good people of the past that followed the path of Allah and His prophets. It also tells us stories of bad people and how Allah punished them in this world. Practicing Islam Salah Why should we pray 5 times a day? The lessons and signifcance of Salah are: Salah brings us closer to Allah It keeps us away from indecent, shameful and forbidden activities It teaches us to control evil desire and passions It purifes heart and comforts the soul It is a constant reminder of Allah and His greatness It develops discipline and willpower It is the source of patience, courage, hope and confdence It is mean of purity, cleanliness and punctuality It demonstrates our obedience to our Creator It is a proof of equality, unity and brotherhood Study of the Quran Learn the meaning of Dua Qunut. Memorize the last 15 Surahs of the 11 Study Notes Study Notes Quran Memorize and study the meaning: Verses 55-57, Surah Noor (Surah 24) Study of Hadith Learn the following hadiths Love for Prophet (S) The Prophet (S) said, None of you has faith unless I (Prophet) am dearer to him than his father, and his son and all mankind. Mentioned in Bukhari Helping the needy The Prophet (S) said, One who tries to help the widow and the poor is like a warrior in the way of Allah. Mentioned in Bukhari Duty and obligation to nighbours The Prophet (S) said, By Allah, he has no faith, he has no faith, he has no faith, whose neighbours are not safe from his wickedness. Mentioned in Bukhari Modesty The Prophet (S) said, Modesty (Haya) is part of faith. Mentioned in Bukhari & Muslim What is the importance of following the Prophet (S)? If you really love Prophet (S), what you have to do? What is the importance of helping the poor and needy in Islam? What is modesty? Why is it so important? How should we treat out neighbours? Islamic Morals and Etiquettes Participants are advised to study the Book of Manners prepared by MuslimVille and available at www. ramadancompetition.com
Qualities Associated with Good Manners The Quran and Sunnah stresses we should strive to attain the following qualities: Truthfulness, honesty, reliability in fulflling trusts Gentleness, politeness, courtesy Generosity, compassion and forgiveness Purity, modesty and decency Humility, patience and steadfastness, courage, thankfulness Dignity, honour, self-respect Warmth and lovingness, cheerfulness and good temper Striving and hard work Allah says in surah Al-Muminun, verse 35: Verily, those who submit (to Allah); and those who believe, and those who are patient, and those who are truthful, and those who are humble before Allah, and those who give in charity, and those who fast, and those who guard their chastity, and those who remember Allah much -- to them Allah has promised forgiveness and a great reward. On the other hand, we should avoid these bad qualities and habits as they are associated with bad manners: Lying, dishonesty, deceit, untrustworthiness Hypocrisy Backbiting Suspicion Harshness Miserliness, envy, jealousy hatred Laziness Cowardice Anger The Prophet said, The one is not strong who throws down another, but one who controls their anger. Pride Abuse Taunting The Prophet said, A believer never taunts, or curses, or speaks foul, or chats or babbles. What can we learn from the Quran and Sunnah about treating our parents? To show love and gratitude to them To speak to them with kindness and respect To strive to do everything that would please them and make them happy To avoid any angry or exasperated expressions/reactions to what parents say or do To refrain from saying anything bad about other peoples parents To refrain from disobeying them. Disobedience to parents is regarded as a major sin in Islam. To look after their needs, especially when they become old and cannot properly look after themselves. To pray for them and ask Allah to forgive them. Repeat often, Rabbir hamhuma kama rabbayani sageera (My Lord and Sustainer! Be kind and have mercy on them as they cherished, nurtured and sustained me in childhood) It is compulsory to show goodness and mercy and act righteously to your parents throughout their lives. This applies even to parents who are not Muslims. Allah says in the Quran, And your Lord has commanded that you worship none but Him and that you be kind to your parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, do not say to them (so much as an) Uff! or speak to them rudely but address them in terms of honour, and out of kindness lower to them you wing of humility and say, My Lord and Sustainer, have mercy on them both as they nurtured, cherished and sustained me in childhood. (Surah Al-Isra, verse 23-24) In particular, we need to be good and kind to our mother who gave birth to us, and who nurtured and provided for our needs as a helpless baby. A man came to the Prophet and asked, Oh messenger of Allah! Who deserves the best care from me? The Prophet replied, Your mother. The man asked who came next and the Prophet replied, Your mother. He asked who came next and the Prophet replied, Your mother. He asked again who came next and the Prophet replied, Your father, then your relatives in order of relationship. Group E : Grades 7 & 8 Participants in this group must also study Group C and D notes. They will have a written test based on the notes. Basics of Islam Five pillars of Islam 1. Shahadah (The Declaration of faith) 2. Salah (Five compulsory daily prayers) 3. Zakah (Welfare contribution) 4. Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan) 5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah) The frst pillar of Islam is Shahadah, which is about belief in Tawhid and Risalah of Muhammad (S). The other four pillars are the main duties in Islam, called Ibadah. Ibadah include any activity which is done to please Allah. Salah, Zakah, Sawm and Hajj are the main four forms of worship or Ibadah. If we perform those regularly and correctly we come closer to Allah. Ibadah is like a training program around which Muslims shape their life. Study: The meaning and signifcant of Kalima Taiyibah, Tawhid and Risalah The timings of the fve daily prayers What are the times when we should not pray? What is the importance of Taharah (cleanliness) and Niyah (intention) for Salah Signifcance of Salah: Our salah is the frst thing we will be asked about when we die and stand- explain in relation to the benefts of Salah 12 Study Notes Study Notes What are the lessons we get from Salah? Meanings of Tasbih (uttering) which are recited in Ruku and Sujud Meanings of Qibla, Qiyam, Ruku, Sujud, Tayammum Meaning of the word Zakah Which people are helped by Zakah? What is the importance of Zakah in the context of social welfare Good qualities developed by Sawm Morals and social lessons of Sawm Why is Lailatul Qadr an important night What is Hajj? What does Hajj teaches us? Why is Hajj called the Annual International Muslim Assembly? The Quran Each of the 114 surahs has their own name. Allah and His Messenger have given a name to each surah. Usually the surah is named from a word used in that particular surah. Surahs are sometimes named according to an event or subject mentioned in that specifc surah. For examples, surah Al-Fatiha (the opening), surah Al-Baqarah (The Cow), surah Al- Imran (the family of Imran), surah An-Nisa (the Women), surah Maidah (the table spread), surah Al-Anam (the cattle) Allah has guaranteed the protection of the Quran. The Quran contain stories, We do relate unto thee the most beautiful of stories. (Quran 11:3) The stories in the Quran are about Prophets of Allah, their people, their message, their call. For example Nuh (A), Musa (A), and Isa (A). Past people or events. For example the companions of the cave. Events that took place during the lifetime of the Prophet. For example the battle of Badr. Sometime Miracles (Mozeza) happen through a messenger only by the will of Allah the Creator. It breaks the usual norms and serves as a proof for the truth and the claim by the messenger that he is the messenger of Allah. The Quran is called a miracle (Mozeza) because of its uniqueness. Some of the special features are as follow: Its language and style excels other texts of the Arabic language. Its comprehensiveness cannot be matched. Its legislation and legal ruling and sophistication cannot be surpassed. Its narrations about the unknown can only result from a revelation from the creator (e.g. creation of the universe. Day of the Judgment, Paradise, Hell fre, Stories of the Prophets, etc.) It has no contradiction with the most advanced sound discovery of all the branches of science. Its fulfllment of all its prophecies. Its complete harmony with human natural need (ftra) It speaks to the human heart as well as the human faculty of reason at the individual level and at the group (Umma, Jamaah) level. It was delivered 1417 years ago by a messenger who could not read nor write. It transformed a group of 100,000 early Muslims through a quantum and giant step to one of the best examples for humanity in only 23 years. It answers the most important questions in human life. e.g. Why we are here in this world? Who created us? What happens after we die? What about the nations before us? What is right and what is wrong? How can you be happy?, etc. It corrects the current belief among the people of the Book. The consistence in using beautiful language throughout 23 years during its revelation. Its uniqueness in expressing wide varieties of topics from moral ethics to complex legal rulings. No other piece of literature, in any language, can match its combined beauty and sophistication, touching the heart and the mind. Its teaching strikes a well measured and balanced approach to all able aspects of human needs, e.g. making a living and praying. The Quran is a unique, supreme book of guidance from the Lord of the Universe (Rabbul-allameen). If it is followed, the Lord guarantees the success in this life and in the hereafter. Throughout Islamic history, this fact has been proven time and time again. The Quran contained scientifc facts only discovered by modern science in the last 50 years. Everything in the universe was compacted together and then split apart (big-bang theory). Gases spread through out the universe and stars, planets and other things were formed. The Universe was in the shape of a fery gas (21:30, 41:11). All life originated from water (24:45, 21:30). Matter is made up of minute particles (10:62). The oxygen content of the air is reduced at higher altitudes (6:125). The cycle how rains are formed( 30:48, 24:43) Everything consists of complementary elements (equivalent to male ad female): animals, man, plants and inorganic material (36:36, 20:53, 22:5, 3:10, 13:3). The embryo in the womb is enclosed by three coverings. A pregnancy occurs only when the ova and the sperm unite. The fertilized egg clings in the womb. The fetus grows in stages until it is ready to born. (23:14, 40:67, 75:37, 23:14, 5:22, 39:6). The fertilization of certain plants is done by the wind (15:22). Microscopic organisms exist that are not visible to the naked eye. (96:1) Each human has permanent individual fngerprints (75:4). There may be life on the other planets.(30:26, 24:41, 19:93-95, 3:83) The Quran is a book of guidance for mankind from Allah, the Creator, and the Lord of the Universe. Although its facts and teaching do not contradict with scientifc facts it cannot be called a book of science. We have to keep in mind that scientifc facts are not absolute truths, they might change as human knowledge changes. Study of the Quran : Memorize last 15 Surahs of the Quran Memorize and study the meaning: Verses 45-47 of Surah Ankabut (Surah29) Study of Hadith : Learn the following hadiths Truthfulness the Prophet (S) said, Guarantee me six things and I shall assure you of Paradise. (1) When you speak, speak the truth, (2) keep your promise, (3) discharge your trust, (4) guard your chastity, (5) lower your gaze and (6) withhold your hands from high-handedness. Mentioned in Baihaqi Politeness the Prophet (S) said, Allah is polite and likes politeness. Condensed from Muslim Brotherhood - The Prophet (S) said, Each of you is a mirror of his brother, if you see something wrong in your brother, you must tell him to get rid of it. Mentioned Tirmidhi Repentance (Tawbah) the Prophet (S) said, By Allah, I (Muhammad) ask Allahs forgiveness and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day. Mentioned in Bukhari Gifts the Prophet (S) said, Give gifts to one another, for gifts take away malice. Mentioned in Mishkat 13 Study Notes Study Notes Visiting the sick the Prophet (S) said, Visit the sick, feed the hungry and free the captives. Mentioned in Bukhari Islamic Morals and Etiquettes : Participants are advised to study the Book of Manners prepared by MuslimVille and available at www. ramadancompetition.com Good Manners in Dealing with Others (more details) What can we learn from the Quran and Sunnah about treating the needy? To treat the needy (the poor, the orphans) with mercy and kindness. The Prophet said, The one who looks after and works for a widow and for a poor person is like a warrior fghting for Allahs Cause. Allah says in the Quran, Have you seen him who rejects the Judgement? That is the person who pushes the orphan aside and does not encourage feeding the needy. (Surah Maun, verse 1-3) The Prophet used to give them sadaqah (charity), even though he himself was poor. This is because as the Prophet describes, If anyone gives as sadaqah the equivalent of a date from their earning honestly, for Allah accepts that which is lawful, the Lord would accept it with His Right Hand, and even if it is a date, it would foster in the Hand of the Lord, as one of you fosters his colt, till it becomes bigger than a mountain. Is money the only form of sadaqah? No, as the Prophet said, Enjoining, all that is good is a sadaqah. In another hadith, the Prophet elaborates, Indeed the gates to goodness are many: glorifying Allah, praising Him, magnifying Him, saying There is no God but Allah, enjoining the good and forbidding the wrong, removing any source of harm from the road, listening to the aggrieved, guiding the blind, showing the seeker his need, striving as far as your two legs could carry you and with deep concern to help to someone who asks for it, carrying with the strength of your arms the burdens of the weak. All these are acts of sadaqah which are an obligation to you. The Prophet then added, And your smiling when seeing your brother/sister is a sadaqah, your removing stones and thorns from peoples paths is a charity and your guiding a man gone astray in the world is charity for you. Allah makes it mandatory upon us to give sadaqah, and there are many many ways to give sadaqah, not just by donating from your money. What can we learn from the Prophet about treating our neighbours? This hadith summarizes beautifully the rights of our neighbours upon us: The Prophet said, Do you know what the rights of neighbours are? and he went on to give a list: Help him if he asks your help. Give him relief if he seeks your relief. Lend him if he needs a loan. Show him concern if he is distressed. Take care of him when he is ill. Attend his funeral if he dies. Congratulate him if he meets any good. Sympathise with him if any calamity befall him. Do not block his air by raising your building high without his permission. Harass him not. Give him a share when you buy fruits, and if you do not give him, bring what you buy quietly and let not your children take them out to excite the jealousy of his children. What can we learn from the Prophet about treating others? Keep a good relationship with our friends and family. The Prophet said, Whoever is pleased that he be granted more wealth and that his life be long, then he should keep good relations with his friends and family. Give gifts and visit them to strengthen friendships. Be generous in giving. Be merciful to those younger than us, and show respect for the elderly. The Prophet said, He who does not show mercy to our young or show esteem for our elders is not one of us. (Al-Bukhari) Honour your guest for the Prophet says, He who believes in Allah and the Last Day should honour their guest according to their right. What can we learn from the Sunnah about treating animals? Be kind to animals, the Prophet (S) said, While a man was walking on a road. he became very thirsty. Then he came across a well, got down into it, drank (of its water) and then came out. Meanwhile he saw a dog panting and licking mud because of excessive thirst. The man said to himself This dog is suffering from the same state of thirst as I did. So he went down the well (again) and flled his shoe (with water) and held it in his mouth and watered the dog. Allah thanked him for that deed and forgave him. The people asked, O Allahs Apostle! Is there a reward for us in serving the animals? He said, (Yes) There is a reward for serving any animate (living being) . (Bukhari) Some of the qualities which are stressed in the Quran and Sunnah include: Truthfulness, honesty, reliability in fulflling trusts Allah said: This is the day (Day of Judgement) on which the truthful will beneft from their truthfulness, for them are gardens underneath which the rivers fow where they will live forever. Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him. That is the greatest success. (Quran 7:119) Allah attributes piety with those who keep their trusts Gentleness, politeness, courtesy - Be kind as Allah has been kind to you (Quran 28:77) Generosity, compassion and forgiveness - Those who spend their wealth (for the sake of Allah) night and day, both secretly and openly, will get their reward from their Lord, they shall have no cause to fear nor shall they grieve. Purity, modesty and decency Humility, patience and steadfastness, courage, thankfulness - And anyone who acts patiently and forgives, that truly would be from the things recommended by Allah (Quran 42:43) Dignity, honour, self-respect Warmth and lovingness, cheerfulness and good temper Striving and hard work 14 Study Notes Study Notes