1. Ask A Question About Islam And Muslims
  2. Ask A Question About Islam And Muslims

Ask A Question About Islam And Muslims

44 Questions

How do we know when a Surah in the Quran was revealed and in whether it was in Makkah or Medina?
Amina Inloes

Generally, this understanding is taken from what has been narrated about the revelation of a surah or ayat. 

However, sometimes there are contextual clues. For instance, if a verse discusses a historical event that happened after the hijrah, such as the Battle of Badr, it is understood that it was revealed in Medina.

Also, the style and content of Meccan verses are somewhat different from the style and content of Medinan verses. The Meccan verses tend to be shorter and focus more on the existence of God, the afterlife, and important ethical points, whereas the Medinan verses tend to be longer and also discuss matters such as legislation. This isn't an absolute rule but also lends some evidence.
Some Shafi'i brothers recite a verse during Fajr prayer that requires Sajdah and go straight into prostration and then stand up again to continue the Surah. Is this allowed in Shia Islam? If I am praying in congregation with them how should I act?
Sayyed Mohammad Al-Musawi

It is not allowed during obligatory Prayer (Salah) to add Rokoo' or  Sojood because it will invalidate the Salah. Reciting any of the four verses of obligatory Sajda is not allowed in obligatory Salah. If you do Sajda for reciting or listening to any of the four verses of obligatory Sajda, you Salah becomes invalid and you need to perform the Salah again. 
Wassalam.
Is it permissible to recite Surahs and do Dhikr whilst doing other things such as household chores, doing your hair, or being on the phone? Does it affect the reward?
Zaid Alsalami

Bismihi ta'ala

In fact, it is a very good thing. Although you might think that you are distracted, or your mind is somewhere else, but getting used to remembering Almighty God frequently is a wonderful quality. 

It will minimise the chance of committing sin, and also keeping you vigilant and alert. Gradually, while multi-tasking, you will be able to master your concentration, and it will all have positive impact as well. 

With prayers for your success. 
Doesn't the act of Tawassul and intercession go against the verse in Surah Fatiha where it says that it is You we worship and You who we ask for help?
Sayyed Mohammad Al-Musawi

The meanings of the Quranic verses can not be taken just from the superficial linguistic meanings. Allah (SWT) Has clearly mentioned in Quran that it is the responsibility of the Prophet (SAWA) to explain to the people the real meanings of Quran (Sura 16, Verse 44).

The meaning of Sura Al-Hamd verses which you quoted never suggest not to seek Waseela. Prophets were mentioned in Quran seeking help from people like Prophet Musa (AS) who asked people for food, and Prophet Sulaiman (AS) who asked people to help him in getting the throne of Bilqees.

We believe that no one can help with out the permission of Allah (SWT).

We do Tawassul because we are been ordered by Allah (SWT) to seek Waseela ( Sura 4, Verse 64.

Wassalam