#IslamicStudies #Fiqh

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh,

I’m Zayd Haji, currently pursuing a Postgraduate Program in Islamic Science at Zad Academy. My aim is to deepen my understanding of our Deen and enhance my grasp of its teachings. Today, I’d like to share key insights from our recent Fiqh studies, focusing on its essential principles and their impact on our daily lives.

The Importance of Fiqh

Fiqh, or Islamic jurisprudence, guides our actions to ensure they align with the Qur'an and Sunnah. As Allah says:

"We did not send [messengers] before you [O Prophet] except mere men inspired by Us. If you [polytheists] do not know [this already], then ask those who have knowledge [of the Scriptures]."

(Qur'an 16:43)

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) highlighted the importance of understanding religion:

"If Allah wants to do good to a person, He makes him comprehend the religion. I am just a distributor, but the grant is from Allah. This nation will continue to follow Allah's teachings until the Day of Judgment."

(Sahih al-Bukhari 71; In-book reference: Book 3, Hadith 13)

He also said:

"He upon whom Allah intends to bestow goodness, He confers upon him an insight in religion. I am the treasurer. To one whom I give out of [my own] sweet will, he would be blessed, but he whom I give due to his begging is like one who eats but is not satisfied."

(Sahih Muslim 1037a; In-book reference: Book 12, Hadith 126)

Additionally:

"He to whom Allah intends to do good, He gives him insight into religion. And I am only the distributor while Allah is the Bestower."

(Sahih Muslim 1037b; In-book reference: Book 12, Hadith 129)

Understanding Fiqh is crucial as we will first be questioned about our Salah on the Day of Judgment.

The Role of Purification in Salah

Purification is essential for valid Salah. Every book of Fiqh begins with the chapter on Taharah (purification), emphasizing its importance. The Qur'an instructs:

"O believers! When you rise up for prayer, wash your faces and your hands up to the elbows, wipe your heads, and wash your feet to the ankles. If you are in a state of [full] impurity, then take a full bath. If you cannot find water, then purify yourselves with clean earth by wiping your faces and hands. It is not Allah’s Will to burden you but to purify you and complete His favor upon you, so perhaps you will be grateful."

(Qur'an 5:6)

Types of Purification

Purification in Islam includes two main types:

• Spiritual Purification (Taharah al-Batinah): This concerns the purity of faith. A Muslim is spiritually pure through faith in Allah and adherence to His commandments. Those who reject faith are described as spiritually impure:

"O believers! Indeed, the polytheists are [spiritually] impure, so they should not approach the Sacred Mosque after this year."

(Qur'an 9:28)

• Physical Purification (Taharah al-Zahirah): This involves cleansing the body, clothing, and prayer area from physical impurities. It includes:
• Ritual Impurity (Hadath): Affects the ability to perform Salah and can be major or minor.
• Physical Impurity (Najasa): Visible impurities such as urine or blood must be cleansed before Salah.

Practical Application of Purification

For our Salah to be accepted, both types of purification must be observed. Major impurities require Ghusl, while minor impurities can be removed with Wudu. Physical impurities must also be cleansed.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

"The key to Paradise is Salah, and the key to Salah is Wudu'."

(Jami` at-Tirmidhi 4; In-book reference: Book 1, Hadith 4)

This Hadith highlights the critical role of purification in our worship and success in the Hereafter.

Conclusion

Practicing purification is vital for every Muslim. It involves both maintaining physical cleanliness and preparing spiritually and physically for Salah. As we continue our studies in Fiqh, may Allah grant us the knowledge and understanding to worship Him correctly and sincerely.

Wa Alaikum Assalam wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.