Date: 06/07/2024

Reading time: 13 minutes, 2629 words

🪖 Military

Armenia, Germany reached agreements on military-technical and military-technological cooperation

Delegation to participate in ‘ILA Berlin 2024’ exhibition, held in Berlin from June 5 to 9. Several agreements were reached, and various documents were signed, the defence ministry said.

Armenpress, Armenia and Germany sign documents on military-technical cooperation

The NA committee approved the agreement on the expansion of Armenian-Greek military-technical cooperation

Armenia and Greece signed an agreement on military-technical cooperation. The agreement was signed on December 14, 2023 in Athens. The directions will be the transfer of technologies and technical support for the production of weapons and munitions.

CivilNet, Parliamentary committee approves ratification of Armenia-Greece defense cooperation agreement

Macron to supply Ukraine with Mirage 2000-5 warplanes and train pilots and troops in France

France to train and equip 4,500 Ukrainian soldiers in France. France to send pilots to Ukraine for five-six months. Move is part of new military cooperation.

Armenpress

🏛️ Politics & Government

Signing of Armenian-Azerbaijani peace treaty nullifies OSCE Minsk Group's relevance, believes Alen Simonyan

President of the Armenian National Assembly Alen Simonyan said Yerevan is taking steps aimed at concluding a peace treaty with Azerbaijan. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev suggested that both Baku and Yereva jointly propose to the OSCE the abolition of the Minsk Group. The Speaker of the National Assembly said the Constitution of Armenia is a matter of internal affairs.

Armenpress, According to Simonyan, the dissolution of the Minsk Group should be addressed after the peace treaty is signed, The Foreign Ministry assesses Baku's attempts to change the constitution as "gross interference" in the internal affairs of the country, According to Aliyev, if the constitution of Armenia is not changed, a peace treaty will not be signed, Baku's attempts to interfere in ArmenianConstitution issues is a gross interference in Armenia's internal affairs - Foreign Ministry, Aliyev: No peace treaty unless Armenia changes constitution

“Geghard” SAF welcomes the announcement by Lemkin Institute to withdraw support for Azerbaijan's hosting of COP29

The Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention called on the UN to withdraw support for Azerbaijan's hosting of the COP29 climate conference. The “Geghard’ Scientific and Analytical Foundation welcomes the Lemkin’s statement.

Armenpress

Protesters at COP 29 accuse Azerbaijan of greenwashing genocide as host of COP29, call for release of Armenian prisoners

A group of activists reiterated the call for the Azerbaijani government to release the 23 political prisoners it is illegally detaining in Baku, including entrepreneur and philanthropist Ruben Vardanyan. At a protest on Friday, 7 June, protestors appealed to delegates at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC SB60) to oppose Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29.

ArmRadio

Azerbaijan proposes Armenia to jointly seek cancelation of Minak Group

The Azerbaijani President maintained that the move will show “how sincere Armenia is.”

PanArmenian

Armenia elected as Member of UN Economic and Social Council for 2025-2027

Armenia elected as a Member of the UN Economic and Social Council for 2025-2027. Armenia received 148 votes in the voting held at the UN headquarters in New York. Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Armenia committed to contributing to international cooperation.

Armenpress

Armenian Foreign Minister meets SCO Secretary-General

Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan had a meeting with Secretary-General of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Zhang Ming. The parties expressed hope that the discussions during the visit would contribute to expanding opportunities for cooperation between Armenia and the SCO.

Armenpress, Nikol Pashinyan Receives Zhang Ming and Delegation, SCO interested in expanding mutually beneficial relations with Armenia - Secretary General, The Shanghai Cooperation Organization is interested in expanding mutually beneficial relations with Armenia. General Secretary, Shanghai Cooperation Organization interested in expanding relations with Armenia

Armenian Parliament Speaker deems information regarding Pashinyan's visit to Azerbaijan absurd

President of the Armenian National Assembly Alen Simonyan says information suggesting that Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is planning to visit Azerbaijan in November is absurd. Earlier, PM's Press Secretary Nazeli Baghdasaryan denied the post made by a political scientist.

Armenpress

Prime Minister receives the representatives of the Central Board of Armenian Democratic Liberal Party-Ramgavar

Nikol Pashinyan received the representatives of the Central Board of the Armenian Democratic Liberal Party-Ramgavar. The PM emphasized that the government's goal is to strengthen the sovereignty and ensure the permanence of statehood in Armenia.

Armenpress

No delegation from Armenia visits Ukraine, affirms Armenian Parliament Speaker

Alen Simonyan says no delegation from Armenia went to Ukraine, noting that he is not commenting on Maria Zakharova's statements. The Russian representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry called for the handover of the list of those killed in Bucha.

Armenpress, Zakharova referred to the Armenian delegation's visit to Bucha

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan chairs regular session of the Investment Committee

The sixth session of the Investment Committee was held under the leadership of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. The committee discussed the Yerevan Metro Modernization Project. The main goal of the project is the creation of a pre-clinical center for pre-scientific research.

Armenpress

European Commission recommends start of accession talks with Ukraine, Moldova

The European Commission has recommended that European Union members start accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova, the commission’s Spokesperson Ana Pisonero said at a press conference in Brussels. At a Brussels meeting on December 14-15, 2023, EU leaders decided to start negotiations with the two countries on joining the union.

Armenpress, Brussels says Ukraine and Moldova ready for membership talks as Hungary mounts opposition

Mirzoyan congratulates Greece on election to UN Security Council

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan congratulated his Greek counterpart George Gerapetritis on Greece's election as a member of the United Nations Security Council. The message reads as follows: "I extend warmest congratulations" given commitment and shared vision for more secure environment in our region.

Armenpress, Armenian FM congratulates Greece and Denmark on their election to UN Security Council

The EU will provide budgetary support to Armenia

The financing agreement "EU support for education in Armenia" was signed between Armenia and the European Commission. The European Commission transferred 5 million euros to the Government in December 2023, and 1.5 million euros in May 2024. It is also planned to build 13 educational complexes in Syunik region, 7 of them in Kapan, and 6 in Goris.

Armenpress, EC allocates about 7 million euros to Armenia for education development, EU to provide budgetary support to Armenia

Pashinyan and Modi emphasized the importance of the development of Armenian-Indian cooperation

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Pashinian congratulated the National Democratic Alliance led by Narendra Modi on the occasion of its victory in the parliamentary elections. Nikol and Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of further development of cooperation between the two countries, the PM's office says.

CivilNet

Armenia’s parliamentary speaker: OSCE Minsk Group dissolution can be discussed after Yerevan, Baku sign peace treaty

Azerbaijan’s leader Ilham Aliyev said on Thursday that Yerevan and Baku should address the OSCE to initiate the dissolution of the Minsk Group. President of Armenia's National Assembly Alen Simonyan also said that Armenia puts its efforts towards the peace treaty.

ArkaAm

Armenia to oblige banks, pharmacies and large retail outlets to install surveillance cameras

Armenian Parliament approves draft law obliging large economic entities and companies to install outdoor surveillance cameras. Deputy Interior Minister Arpine Sargsyan noted that the bill applies to banks, credit organisations, pawnshops, pharmacies and pharmacies. The changes will affect retail facilities with an area of more than 100 square metres, gas stations and catering outlets.

ArkaAm

Police Guard to be established in Armenia

Armenian parliamentary committee on defence and security issues on Friday approved a bill calling for establishment of a police guard. The bill was presented by the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Arpine Sargsyan. Guards will not take direct part in military actions, as was the case with the police troops.

ArkaAm

Russian Deputy Prime Minister expects Iran-EEU FTA to becomeoperational in 2025

Russia expects the free trade area (FTA) agreement between Iran and the Eurasian Economic Union to become operational in 2025. Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk noted that Iran’s accession to the FTA will enlarge the EEU market by 80 million people to a total 400 million people. The EEU countries signed a full-fledged free trade agreement with Iran on December 25, 2023.

ArkaAm

Armenia willing to complete and sign peace deal with Azerbaijan within the next month – MFA

The Republic of Armenia does not have any territorial claims on any of its neighbors, including Azerbaijan, the Armenian Foreign Ministry said in response to Azerbaijani Presidents claims. ‘Such rhetoric torpedoes the peace process and casts doubts on the sincerity of the leadership of Azerbaijan to achieve peace’

ArmRadio, Aliyev: No peace treaty unless Armenia changes constitution

Sunak admits it was a 'mistake' to leave D-Day commemorations early

British PM Rishi Sunak has apologised for leaving D-Day commemorations in Normandy early, admitting it was a "mistake" Sunak: "The last thing I want is for the commemorations to be overshadowed by politics" Labour has called it a "dereliction of duty"

Armenpress

Gevorg Papoyan received Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Saha Sinha

The Armenian government is planning to build a partnership with India to help develop the country's economy. The government is also planning to develop a partnership in India-Argentine partnership with the country.

Armenpress, Armenia might construct copper smelter using leading Indian tech, Armenia is considering the option of building a copper smelter using advanced technologies from India

Illegally built and non-compliant gas stations can not be in Yerevan - Avinyan

During 2023, we have dismantled 25 gas stations located near residential buildings in the city of Yerevan, wrote on his Facebook page. The process will be implemented this year as well and will continue consistently.

Armenpress

Israel's Netanyahu to address U.S. Congress on July 24

Benjamin Netanyahu will speak to joint session of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Netanyahu's visit comes amid tensions between him and U.S. President Joe Biden. Netanyahu has also issued a statement on his upcoming visit.

Armenpress, Netanyahu to address US Congress on 24 July

7 injured in massive blast at gas station outside Yerevan

A liquified gas tank exploded in the town of Abovyan along the highway to Lake Sevan. At least seven people were injured, two seriously, in a blast late Thursday evening. Authorities moved in February to shut down the gas station, which was operating without a license, local media reports.

CivilNet, Seven citizens were injured by the explosion on the Yerevan-Sevan road, two are in the intensive care unit, Gas supply to subscribers in Abovyan stopped since night due to explosion on Sevan highway, The gas supply to the city of Abovyan was stopped overnight due to an explosion on the Sevan highway, Seven injured in massive gas station explosion in Armenia

‘Stop threatening us’: Alen Simonyan responds to Galuzin's allegations

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin said earlier that 'ill-conceived steps' could make it impossible to return to joint work on creating a common defence space with Russia and other CSTO countries. Simonyan said that Armenia is not negotiating with any country, nor is it discussing deployment of a foreign military base or joining any strategic alliance.

ArkaAm

Russia works on bringing Mir cards back to Armenia

Russia working on resuming operation of its Mir bank cards in Armenia and Kyrgyzstan, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Pankin said on Friday. Russian banks, except for the Russian-owned VTB bank, stopped accepting Mir cards on 30 March 2024 due to the payment system being sanctioned by the Western countries. The Russian payment system was introduced in 2015.

ArkaAm

Armenia has made significant strides in improving food safety, FAO and WHO say

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) jointly with key partners in Armenia observes the World Food Safety Day. This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of readiness for unforeseen food safety incidents, ranging from minor local events to major international crises.

ArmRadio

💵 Economy

Exports of products of Armenian origin recorded 14 per cent decline in the first quarter - Finance Ministry

Exports of products of Armenian origin in the first three months of 2024, compared to the same period of 2023, recorded a 14.3 per cent decline. At the same time, imports grew 75.8 per cent in January-March 2024 compared to 2023. Armenia's foreign trade turnover increased 2.1 times to $9.2 billion.

ArkaAm, Finance Ministry: Armenia’s tourist influx drops by 2% in Q1 2024 YoY

Insurance premiums in Armenia totalled AMD 23bn in the first quarter of 2024.

The volume of insurance premiums collected by 8 insurance companies in Armenia in the first quarter of 2024 made more than AMD 23 billion. In 2023, AMD 73.3 billion were collected as personal insurance premiums.

ArkaAm

🎭 Culture

Aram Khachatryan, Saroyan and Yerevan Metro

On June 6, passengers in the Yerevan metro were listening to Aram Khachatryan's music. It was the great composer's birthday, and the metro management decided to remind the passengers about the day. Both the "Dance with Swords&quat; and the.quatry. waltz melody of the &qot;Masquerade. ballet was playing in another station, the. &quatyyan's most famous and world-wide works.

CivilNet

⚽ Sport

Yerevan to host open boxing championship

The Yerevan Open Boxing Championship will be held in the Armenian capital on 10-15 June. Around 150 boxers from Bulgaria, Iran, Latvia, Hungary, Moldova, Russia, Georgia and Armenia registered for the tournament.

ArkaAm

Armenia beat Kazakhstan 2:1 in a friendly

Armenian national beat Kazakhstan in a friendly at Republican Stadium after Vazgen Sargsyan in Yerevan. Nair Tiknizyan opened the score in the 4th minute of the match. Vahan Bichakhchyan doubled the advantage in the 58th minute.

ArmRadio, Armenia hosts Kazakhstan in a friendly tonight

Donations to Armenia:

Himnadram
ServicemenFund
Armenian Wounded Heroes
ArmeniaFund

The latest Friday review and marketing insights are out on newsletter, one of the sections is below. Let me know what you think:

What did Internet say?

1. People, including some advertisers aren’t happy about unskippable ads on Instagram.
   1. In January, TikTok’s report came out sharing unskippable ads may harm engagement.
2. A new study from Pinterest is making marketers thirsty to join the platform. Why? It shares the platform generates 170% more total attention than other platforms.
   1. I love Pinterest but the platform gaslights you a lot. First, they need to highlight engaged audience on profile instead of total audience. The Total metric is similar to X’s post views. Having more total audience aka views means nothing if people aren’t engaging.
   2. About the study, Pinterest talking about a passive and active attention is important. Most marketers are only after attention as we discussed in a previous post, understanding attention theory is a must.
   3. Yes, People enjoy content on Pinterest as they claim in the study. But people aren’t happy about your ads, the study shows biased in that part.
      1. Most brands aren’t Pinterest-first, A lot of repurposing going. Making people hate the ad experience, Pinterest needs brands that follow more rules of creativity than performance.
3. Departure of Virginie Viard from Chanel is kind of being celebrated by fashion lovers.
4. GQ’s Article ‘Merch is dead’ is getting roasted by Internet’s best newsletters, short answer: Merch is very much alive. My Reads:
   1. Why is wearing merch so embarrassing? by emily north.
   2. Everything is Merch from Ana Andjelic and Eugene Rabkin.
5. Protests against AI training: Adobe and Meta are getting called out for their new terms of use.
   1. First a little rant: INSTAGRAM SUCKS FOR RESEARCH.
      1. There is a viral ‘add yours’ template where creators are sharing their anger against AI. I saw it once in a random story, I can’t find that story or template because there is no feature to do so.
      2. Hashtags no longer show the layout to see recent posts or stories.
   2. #metai #creatorsagainstai and few other hashtags highlight how artists are leaving Meta over AI terms.
      1. Part of the problem is opting out of AI training is not easy. EU’s Noyb has already filed complaint against AI, let’s see what happens in US.
6. Brand Collaborations getting love: Dunkin x Scrub Daddy and Vacation Sunscreen x Erewhon Smoothie.
7. Meta Advertisers: Music on Image Ads is a no + Meta’s test to have multiple objectives under 1 campaign is kind of useless and cash grab.
8. Against the Trend: Dr. Harini Bhat’s 20 minute-long video summary of Flight MH370 felt like a 5-minute video. A masterclass in engaging video storytelling.
9. 🍲 Chipotle: I feel bad for Chipotle’s marketing team, they created the perfect social media post. Only to have their CEO’s interview mess things up, people are now trolling his interview.
10. Recommendations: Christina Garnett’s podcast with copywriting legend, Vikki Ross + A mega post sharing e-commerce funnel creation and examples.
11. Updated Insight: The TikTok guide shared duets and stitches can help your content reach more relevant audiences, as the link juice travels from one video to other.
    1. This recent post from Joanna Williams hinted at another use-case, using amount of organic stitches and duets with creator’s video as a metric for Influencer selection.
12. The Worst: Spotify’s CEO tweets about cost of content being zero. The Online Community didn’t like that, probably because content isn’t free.
    1. Because of CEOs like him, the word ‘content’ is becoming meaningless.

Read the complete post here, and do upvote if you liked what was shared, see you on Sunday with marketing news version. 🧃

The latest Friday review and marketing insights are out on newsletter, one of the sections is below. Let me know what you think:

What did Internet say?

1. People, including some advertisers aren’t happy about unskippable ads on Instagram.
   1. In January, TikTok’s report came out sharing unskippable ads may harm engagement.
2. A new study from Pinterest is making marketers thirsty to join the platform. Why? It shares the platform generates 170% more total attention than other platforms.
   1. I love Pinterest but the platform gaslights you a lot. First, they need to highlight engaged audience on profile instead of total audience. The Total metric is similar to X’s post views. Having more total audience aka views means nothing if people aren’t engaging.
   2. About the study, Pinterest talking about a passive and active attention is important. Most marketers are only after attention as we discussed in a previous post, understanding attention theory is a must.
   3. Yes, People enjoy content on Pinterest as they claim in the study. But people aren’t happy about your ads, the study shows biased in that part.
      1. Most brands aren’t Pinterest-first, A lot of repurposing going. Making people hate the ad experience, Pinterest needs brands that follow more rules of creativity than performance.
3. Departure of Virginie Viard from Chanel is kind of being celebrated by fashion lovers.
4. GQ’s Article ‘Merch is dead’ is getting roasted by Internet’s best newsletters, short answer: Merch is very much alive. My Reads:
   1. Why is wearing merch so embarrassing? by emily north.
   2. Everything is Merch from Ana Andjelic and Eugene Rabkin.
5. Protests against AI training: Adobe and Meta are getting called out for their new terms of use.
   1. First a little rant: INSTAGRAM SUCKS FOR RESEARCH.
      1. There is a viral ‘add yours’ template where creators are sharing their anger against AI. I saw it once in a random story, I can’t find that story or template because there is no feature to do so.
      2. Hashtags no longer show the layout to see recent posts or stories.
   2. #metai #creatorsagainstai and few other hashtags highlight how artists are leaving Meta over AI terms.
      1. Part of the problem is opting out of AI training is not easy. EU’s Noyb has already filed complaint against AI, let’s see what happens in US.
6. Brand Collaborations getting love: Dunkin x Scrub Daddy and Vacation Sunscreen x Erewhon Smoothie.
7. Meta Advertisers: Music on Image Ads is a no + Meta’s test to have multiple objectives under 1 campaign is kind of useless and cash grab.
8. Against the Trend: Dr. Harini Bhat’s 20 minute-long video summary of Flight MH370 felt like a 5-minute video. A masterclass in engaging video storytelling.
9. 🍲 Chipotle: I feel bad for Chipotle’s marketing team, they created the perfect social media post. Only to have their CEO’s interview mess things up, people are now trolling his interview.
10. Recommendations: Christina Garnett’s podcast with copywriting legend, Vikki Ross + A mega post sharing e-commerce funnel creation and examples.
11. Updated Insight: The TikTok guide shared duets and stitches can help your content reach more relevant audiences, as the link juice travels from one video to other.
    1. This recent post from Joanna Williams hinted at another use-case, using amount of organic stitches and duets with creator’s video as a metric for Influencer selection.
12. The Worst: Spotify’s CEO tweets about cost of content being zero. The Online Community didn’t like that, probably because content isn’t free.
    1. Because of CEOs like him, the word ‘content’ is becoming meaningless.

Read the complete post here, and do upvote if you liked what was shared, see you on Sunday with marketing news version. 🧃

So I always keep this book by Joseph Nguyen, on my trips, because when your mind wander ana keep on thinking what to do next. You can go to this book 📖 random pages and can read anything..
"Therefore, it's not WHAT we're thinking about that is causing us suffering, but THAT we are thinking" This quote I love it ♥️ And also " crodwed mind leaves no space for peaceful heart"..
And it's a book always stays in my trip backpack 🎒
So what's your go to book for trips ? Which you read randomly any pages, and always takes with you. Send your best one and some unique ones..

Summary of islamqa

“And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks to mislead from the path of Allah…” [Quran 31:6]
Ibn Abbas said: this means singing.
Mujahid said: this means playing the drum.
Al-Hasan al-Basri said: this ayah was revealed concerning singing and musical (woodwind) instruments.
Al-Sa’di said: this includes all manner of haram speech, all idle talk and falsehood, and all nonsense that encourages kufr and disobedience; the words of those who say things to refute the truth and argue in support of falsehood to defeat the truth; and backbiting, slander, lies, insults and curses; the singing and musical instruments of the Shaytan; and musical instruments which are of no spiritual or worldly benefit.
Ibn al-Qayyim said: The interpretation of the Sahabah and Tabi'in, that idle talk refers to singing, is sufficient. This was reported with sahih isnad from Ibn Abbas and Ibn Masud. Abu’l-Sahba said: I asked Ibn Masud about the ayah [Quran 31:6]. He said: By Allah, besides Whom there is no other god, this means singing – and he repeated it three times. It was also reported with a sahih isnad from Ibn Umar that this means singing.
Abu Umamah reported that the Messenger of Allah said: “Do not sell singing slave women, do not buy them and do not teach them. There is nothing good in this trade, and their price is haram."
([He said:] There is narration about this from Umar bin Al-Khattab. [Abu 'Eisa said:] We only know of the Hadith of Abu Umamah, like this, from this route. Some of the people of knowledge have criticized Ali bin Yazid (one of the narrators) and graded him weak, and he is from Ash-Sham)
Concerning such things as this the ayah [Quran 31:6] was revealed.
“And befool them gradually those whom you [Iblis] can among them with your voice…” [Quran 17:64]
Ibn al-Qayyim said: Everyone who blows into a flute or other woodwind instrument, or who plays any haram kind of drum, this is the voice of the Shaytan...
“Do you then wonder at this recitation? And you laugh at it and weep not, Wasting your lifetime in pastime and amusements” [Quran 53:59-61]
Ikrimah said: it was narrated from Ibn Abbas that al-sumud [verbal noun from samidun, translated here as “Wasting your lifetime in pastime and amusements”] means “singing”, in the dialect of Himyar; it might be said “Ismidi lana” [‘sing for us’ – from the same root as samidun/sumud] meaning “ghaniy” [sing]. And he said: When they [kuffar] heard the Quran, they would sing, then this ayah was revealed.
Ibn Abbas: (this means) singing. This is Yemeni (dialect): ismad lana means ghan lana [sing to us]...”
“Among my ummah there will certainly be people who permit zina, silk, alcohol and musical instruments…” (al-Bukhari 5590)
Ibn Taymiyah said: This hadith indicates that ma’azif are haram, and ma’azif means musical instruments according to the scholars of (Arabic) language. This word includes all such instruments.
Ibn al-Qayyim said: And concerning the same topic similar comments were narrated from Sahl ibn Sa’d al-Sa’idi, ‘Imran ibn Husayn, ‘Abd-Allah ibn ‘Amr, ‘Abd-Allah ibn 'Abbas, Abu Hurayrah, Abu Umamah al-Bahili, ‘Aishah Umm al-Mu’minin, ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib, Anas ibn Malik, ‘Abd al-Rahman ibn Sabit and al-Ghazi ibn Rabi'ah. Then he mentioned it in Ighathat al-Lahfan, and it indicates that they (musical instruments) are haram.
It was narrated that Nafi said: Ibn Umar heard a woodwind instrument, and he put his fingers in his ears and kept away from that path. He said to me, O Nafi, can you hear anything? I said, No. So he took his fingers away from his ears and said: I was with the Prophet and he heard something like this, and he did the same thing. Sunan Abi Dawud 4924, sahih according to al-Albani)
Ibn Taymiyah said: Concerning music which a person does not intend to listen to, there is no prohibition or blame, according to scholarly consensus. Hence blame or praise is connected to listening, not to hearing. The one who listens to the Quran will be rewarded for it, whereas the one who hears it without intending or wanting to will not be rewarded for that, because actions are judged by intentions. The same applies to musical instruments which are forbidden: if a person hears them without intending to, that does not matter.
Al-Qasim said: Singing is part of falsehood.
Al-Hasan said: if there is music involved in a dinner invitation (walimah), do not accept the invitation.
Ibn Taymiyah said: The view of the 4 Imams is that all kinds of musical instruments are haram. It was reported in Sahih al-Bukhari and elsewhere that the Prophet said that there would be among his ummah those who would allow zina, silk, alcohol and musical instruments, and he said that they would be transformed into monkeys and pigs… None of the followers of the imams mentioned any dispute concerning the matter of music.
Al-Albani said: The 4 madhabs agree that all musical instruments are haram.
Ibn al-Qayyim said: The madhhab of Abu Hanifah is the strictest in this regard, and his comments are among the harshest. His companions clearly stated that it is haram to listen to all musical instruments such as the flute and the drum, even tapping a stick. They stated that it is a sin which implies that a person is a fasiq (rebellious evil doer) whose testimony should be rejected. They went further than that and said that listening to music is fisq (rebellion, evildoing) and enjoying it is kufr.
Imam Malik was asked about playing the drum or flute, if a person happens to hear the sound and enjoy it whilst he is walking or sitting. He said: He should get up if he finds that he enjoys it, unless he is sitting down for a need or is unable to get up. If he is on the road, he should either go back or move on. He said: “The only people who do things like that, in our view, are fasiqs.”
Ibn Abd al-Barr said: Among the types of earnings which are haram by scholarly consensus are riba, the fee of a prostitute, anything forbidden, bribes, payment for wailing over the dead and singing, payments to fortune-tellers and those who claim to know the unseen and astrologers, payments for playing flutes, and all kinds of gambling.
Ibn al-Qayyim said, explaining the view of Imam al-Shafi: His companions who know his madhab stated that it is haram and denounced those who said that he permitted it.
The author of Kifayat al-Akhbar, who was one of the Shafi’is, counted musical instruments such as flutes and others, as being munkar (evil), and the one who is present (where they are being played) should denounce them.
Ibn al-Qayyim said: With regard to the view of Imam Ahmad, his son Abd-Allah said: I asked my father about singing. He said: Singing makes hypocrisy grow in the heart; I do not like it.
Ibn Qudamah, the researcher of the Hanbali madhhab – said: Musical instruments are of three types which are haram. These are the strings and all kinds of flute, and the lute, drum and rabab (stringed instrument) and so on. Whoever persists in listening to them, his testimony should be rejected. And he said; If a person is invited to a gathering in which there is something objectionable, such as wine and musical instruments, and he is able to denounce it, then he should attend and speak out against it, because then he will be combining two obligatory duties. If he is not able to do that, then he should not attend.
Al-Tabari said: The scholars of all regions agree that singing is haram and should be prevented. Although Ibrahim ibn Sa’d and ‘Ubayd-Allah al-‘Anbari differed from the majority, (it should be noted that) the Messenger of Allah said: “Adhere to the majority.” And whoever dies differing from the majority, dies as a jahil. (Tafsir al-Qurtubi).
Shaykh al-Fawzan said: What Ibrahim ibn Sa’d and ‘Ubayd-Allah al-‘Anbari said about singing is not like the kind of singing that is known nowadays, for they would never have allowed this kind of singing which is the utmost in immorality and obscenity.
Ibn Taymiyah said: It is not permissible to make musical instruments. And he said: According to the majority of fuqaha, it is permissible to destroy musical instruments, such as the tanbur [a stringed instrument similar to a mandolin]. This is the view of Malik and is the more famous of the two views narrated from Ahmad. And he said: …Ibn al-Mundhir mentioned that the scholars agreed that it is not permissible to pay people to sing and wail… the consensus of all the scholars whose views we have learned about is that wailing and singing are not allowed. Al-Shu’bi, al-Nakha’i and Malik regarded that as haram. Two of the students of Abu Hanifah said: it is not permissible to pay anything for singing and wailing. This is our view. And he said: musical instruments are the wine of the soul, and what it does to the soul is worse than what intoxicating drinks do.
Ibn Abi Shaybah reported that a man broke a mandolin belonging to another man, and the latter took his case to Shurayh (Judge). But Shurayh did not award him any compensation – i.e., he did not make the first man pay the cost of the mandolin, because it was haram and had no value.
Al-Baghawi stated in a fatwa that it is haram to sell all kinds of musical instruments such as mandolins, flutes, etc. Then he said: If the images are erased and the musical instruments are altered, then it is permissible to sell their parts, whether they are silver, iron, wood or whatever.
Abu Bakr: "Musical instruments of the Shaytan in the house of the Messenger of Allah!” (Bukhari 3931)

Al-Daff: An appropriate exception

The exception to the above is the daff – without any rings (i.e., a hand-drum which looks like a tambourine, but without any rattles) – when used by women on Eids and at weddings. This is indicated by sahih reports.
Ibn Taymiyah said: But the Prophet made allowances for certain types of musical instruments at weddings and the like, and he made allowances for women to play the daff at weddings and on other joyful occasions. But the men at his time did not play the daff or clap with their hands. It was narrated in al-Sahih that he said: “Clapping is for women and tasbih (saying Subhan Allah) is for men.” And he cursed women who imitate men and men who imitate women. Because singing and playing the daff are things that women do, the Salaf used to call any man who did that a mukhannath (effeminate man), and they used to call male singers effeminate – and how many of them there are nowadays! It is well known that the Salaf said this.
In a similar vein is the hadith of Aishah, when her father entered upon her at the time of Eid, and there were two young girls with her who were singing the verses that the Ansar had said on the day of Bu’ath – and any sensible person will know what people say about war. Abu Bakr said: “Musical instruments of the Shaytan in the house of the Messenger of Allah!” The Messenger of Allah had turned away from them and was facing the wall – hence some scholars said that Abu Bakr would not tell anybody off in front of the Messenger of Allah, but he thought that the Messenger of Allah was not paying attention to what was happening. And Allah knows best. He (the Prophet) said: “Leave them alone, O Abu Bakr, for every nation has its Eid, and this is our Eid, the people of Islam.” This hadith shows that it was not the habit of the Prophet and his Companions to gather to listen to singing, hence Abu Bakr al-Siddiq called it “the musical instruments of the Shaytan”. And the Prophet approved of this appellation and did not deny it when he said, “Leave them alone, for every nation has its Eid and this is our Eid.” This indicates that the reason why this was permitted was because it was the time of Eid, and the prohibition remained in effect at times other than Eid, apart from the exceptions made for weddings in other ahadith. Shaykh al-Albani explained this in his valuable book Tahrim Alat al-Tarab (the Prohibition of Musical Instruments). The Prophet approved of young girls singing at Eid, as stated in the hadith: “So that the mushrikin will know that in our religion there is room for relaxation.” There is no indication in the hadith about the two young girls that the Prophet was listening to them. The commands and prohibitions have to do with listening, not merely hearing, just as in the case of seeing, the rules have to do with intentionally looking and not what happens by accident. So it is clear that this is for women only. Imam Abu Ubayd defined the daff as “that which is played by women.”

Some people object:

• Drums at times of war and military music: An inappropriate exception

Some of them make an exception for drums at times of war, and consequentially some modern scholars have said that military music is allowed. But there is no basis for this at all, for a number of reasons, the first of which is that this is making an exception with no clear evidence, apart from mere opinion and thinking that it is good, and this is wrong. The second reason is that what the Muslims should do at times of war is to turn their hearts towards their Lord. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“They ask you (O Muhammad) about the spoils of war. Say: ‘The spoils are for Allah and the Messenger.’ So fear Allah and adjust all matters of difference among you…” [al-Anfal 8:1]. But using music is the opposite of this idea of taqwa and it would distract them from remembering their Lord. Thirdly, using music is one of the customs of the kuffar, and it is not permitted to imitate them, especially with regard to something that Allah has forbidden to us in general, such as music. (al-Sahihah, 1/145)

• Story of the Abyssinians playing and singing in the Prophet’s mosque

Some of them used the hadith about the Abyssinians playing in the mosque of the Prophet as evidence that singing is allowed! Al-Bukhari included this hadith in his Sahih under the heading Bab al-Hirab wa’l-Daraq Yawm al-‘Eid (Chapter on Spears and Shields on the Day of Eid).
Al-Nawawi said: This indicates that it is permissible to play with weapons and the like in the mosque, and he applied that to other activities connected with jihad. (Sharh Muslim). But as al-Hafiz ibn Hajar said: whoever speaks about something which is not his profession will come up with weird ideas such as these.
Some of them use as evidence the hadith about the singing of the two young girls, which we have discussed above, but we will quote what Ibn al-Qayyim said:
I am amazed that you quote as evidence for allowing listening to sophisticated songs the report which we mentioned about how two young girls who were below the age of puberty sang to a young woman on the day of Eid some verses of Arab poetry about bravery in war and other noble characteristics. How can you compare this to that? What is strange is that this hadith is one of the strongest proofs against them. The greatest speaker of the truth [Abu Bakr al-Siddiq] called them musical instruments of the Shaytan, and the Messenger of Allah approved of that appellation, but he made an exception in the case of these two young girls who had not yet reached the age of responsibility and the words of whose songs could not corrupt anyone who listened to them. Can this be used as evidence to allow what you do and what you know of listening (to music) which includes (bad) things which are not hidden?! Subhan Allah! How people can be led astray!
Ibn al-Jawzi said: Aishah was young at that time; nothing was transmitted from her after she reached the age of puberty except condemnation of singing. Her brother’s son, al-Qasim ibn Muhammad, condemned singing and said that it was not allowed to listen to it, and he took his knowledge from her.
Al-Hafiz ibn Hajar said: A group of the Sufis used this hadith (the hadith about the two young girls) as evidence that singing is allowed and it is allowed to listen to it, whether it is accompanied by instruments or not. This view is sufficiently refuted by the clear statement of Aishah in the following hadith, where she says, “They were not singers.” She made it clear that they were not singers as such, although this may be understood from the wording of the report. So we should limit it to what was narrated in the text as regards the occasion and the manner, so as to reduce the risk of going against the principle, i.e., the hadith.

• Did the Companions listen to singing?

Some people even have the nerve to suggest that the Sahabah and Tabi'in listened to singing, and that they saw nothing wrong with it!
Al-Fawzan said: We demand them to show us sahih isnads going back to these Sahabah and Tabi'in, proving what they attribute to them. Then he said: Imam Muslim mentioned in his introduction to his Sahih that Abd-Allah ibn al-Mubarak said: The isnad is part of religion. Were it not for the isnad, whoever wanted to could say whatever he wanted to.

• Are the hadiths which forbid music full of faults?

Some of them said that the ahadith which forbid music are full of faults. No hadith was free of being criticized by some of the scholars. Ibn Baz said: The ahadith which were narrated concerning music being haram are not full of faults as has been claimed. Some of them are in Sahih al-Bukhari which is the soundest of books after the Book of Allah, and some of them are hasan and some are daif. But because they are so many, with different isnads, they constitute definitive proof that singing and musical instruments are haram.
All the imams agreed on the soundness of the ahadith which forbid singing and musical instruments, apart from Abu Hamid al-Ghazzali, but al-Ghazzali did not have knowledge of hadith; and Ibn Hazam, but al-Albani explained where Ibn Hazam went wrong, and Ibn Hazam himself said that if any of (these ahadith) were sahih, he would follow that. But now they have proof that these reports are sahih because there are so many books by the scholars which state that these ahadith are sahih, but they turn their backs on that. They are far more extreme than Ibn Hazam and they are nothing like him, for they are not qualified and cannot be referred to.

• Singing is haram only where alcohol is drunk?

Some of them said that the scholars forbade singing because it is mentioned alongside gatherings in which alcohol is drunk and where people stay up late at night for evil purposes.
Al-Shawkani said: The response to this is that mentioning these things in conjunction does not only mean that what is haram is what is joined together in this manner. Otherwise this would mean that zina, as mentioned in the ahadith, is not haram unless it is accompanied by alcohol and the use of musical instruments. By the same token, an ayah such as the following (interpretation of the meaning):
“Verily, he used not to believe in Allah, the Most Great, And urged not on the feeding of Al-Miskin (the poor). [al-Haqqah 69:33-34]
would imply that it is not haram to disbelieve in Allah unless that is accompanied by not encouraging the feeding of the poor. If it is said that the prohibition of such things one at a time is proven from other reports, the response to that is that the prohibition of musical instruments is also known from other evidence, as mentioned above.

• Idle talk does not refer to singing?

Some of them said that “idle talk” does not refer to singing; the refutation of that has been mentioned above. Al-Qurtubi said: This – the view that it means singing – is the best that has been said concerning this ayah, and Ibn Masud swore three times by Allah besides Whom there is no other god, that it does refer to singing. Then he mentioned other imams who said the same thing. Then he mentioned other views concerning the matter. Then he said: The first view is the best of all that has been said on this matter, because of the marfu’ hadith, and because of the view of the Sahabah and the Tabi'in. (Tafsir al-Qurtubi).
Ibn al-Qayyim, after quoting this Tafsir, said: Al-Hakim Abu Abd-Allah said in the Tafsir of Kitab al-Mustadrak: Let the one who is seeking this knowledge know that the Tafsir of a Sahabi who witnessed the revelation is a hadith with isnad according to the two Shaykhs (al-Bukhari and Muslim). Elsewhere in his book, he said: In our view this hadith has the same strength as a marfu’ report. Although their tafsir is still subject to further examination, it is still more readily acceptable than the tafsir of those who came after them, because they are the most knowledgeable among this ummah of what Allah meant in his Book. It was revealed among them and they were the first people to be addressed by it. They heard the tafsir from the Messenger in word and in deed. And they were Arabs who understood the true meanings of (Arabic) words, so Muslims should avoid resorting to any other interpretation as much as possible.

• Singing is a form of worship if it helps one to obey Allah?

Some of them said that singing is a form of worship if the intention is for it to help one to obey Allah!
Ibn al-Qayyim said: How strange! What type of faith, light, insight, guidance and knowledge can be gained from listening to tuneful verses and music in which most of what is said is haram and deserves the wrath and punishment of Allah and His Messenger? … How can anyone who has the least amount of insight and faith in his heart draw near to Allah and increase his faith by enjoying something which is hated by Him, and He detests the one who says it and the one who accepts it?
Ibn al-Qayyim said, discussing the state of the person who has gotten used to listening to singing: Hence you find that those who have gotten used to it and for whom it is like food and drink will never have the desire to listen to the Quran or feel joy when they hear it, and they never find in listening to its verses the same feeling that they find when listening to poetry. Indeed, if they hear the Quran, they hear it with an inattentive heart and talk whilst it is being recited, but if they hear whistling and clapping of hands, they lower their voices and keep still, and pay attention.

• Music softens people’s hearts?

Some say that music and musical instruments have the effect of softening people’s hearts and creating gentle feelings. This is not true, because it provokes physical desires and whims. If it really did what they say, it would have softened the hearts of the musicians and made their attitude and behaviour better, but most of them, as we know, are astray and behave badly.

Paradise and its Bliss
Allaah تعالى said:
وَبَشِّرِ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ أَنَّ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتٍ تَجْرِي مِنْ تَحْتِهَا الْأَنْهَارُ كُلَّمَا رُزِقُوا مِنْهَا مِنْ ثَمَرَةٍ رِزْقًا قَالُوا هَذَا الَّذِي رُزِقْنَا مِنْ قَبْلُ وَأُتُوا بِهِ مُتَشَابِهًا وَلَهُمْ فِيهَا أَزْوَاجٌ مُطَهَّرَةٌ وَهُمْ فِيهَا خَالِدُونَ
{And give good tidings to those who believe and do righteous deeds that they will have gardens [in Paradise] beneath which rivers flow. Every time they will be provided with a fruit therefrom, they will say: "This is what we were provided with before," and they will be given things in resemblance. And they will have therein purified spouses, and they will abide therein eternally} [Surah al-Baqarah (2):25]
TAFSEER MUYASSAR (1/5): O Messenger! Inform the people of Imaan (Faith) and righteous deeds about the news that will fill them with joy, that for them, in the Hereafter, are amazing gardens, rivers will flow underneath its high palaces and its shady trees. Every time Allaah تعالى provides for them from its delicious fruits, they would say: “Allaah had provided us with this type before.” But when they taste it, they would find it something new in taste and delight, even though it might resemble the one before it in color, shape, and name. And for them, in the Paradise, will be wives, purified from all kinds of observable impurities, like urine and menstruation, and moral impurities, like lying and bad manners. And they will abide in Paradise and its bliss forever, they will neither die nor will they be expelled from it. --end of quote
TAFSEER IBN KATHEER: Allaah تعالى said:
كُلَّمَا رُزِقُوا مِنْهَا مِنْ ثَمَرَةٍ رِزْقًا قَالُوا هَذَا الَّذِي رُزِقْنَا مِنْ قَبْلُ Ibn Abee Haatim reported that Yahya Ibn Abee Katheer said: “The grass of Paradise is made of saffron, its hills from musk and the boys of everlasting youth will serve the Believers with fruits which they will eat. They will then be brought similar fruits, and the people of Paradise will comment: “This is the same as what you have just brought us.” The boys will say to them: “Eat, for the color is the same, but the taste is different.” Hence Allaah’s statement: وَأُتُوا بِهِ مُتَشَابِهًا {and they will be given things in resemblance}.
Abu Jafar al-Raazee narrated that al-Rabee Ibn Anas said that Abu al-Aaliyah said that: وَأُتُوا بِهِ مُتَشَابِهًا {and they will be given things in resemblance} means: “They look like each other, but the taste is different.”
Also, Ikrimah said: وَأُتُوا بِهِ مُتَشَابِهًا {and they will be given things in resemblance} “They are similar to the fruits of this life, but the fruits of Paradise taste better.”
Sufyaan al-Thawree reported from al-Amash, from Abu Thubyan, that Ibn Abbaas رضي الله عنهما said: “Nothing in Paradise resembles anything in the life of this world, except in name.”
In another narration, Ibn `Abbaas رضي الله عنهما said: “Only the names are similar between what is in this life and what is in Paradise.” --end of quote

Sources:

• 1, 2, 3
• islamqa: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

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Thigh awrah?

One view: A number of scholars - which was narrated in the madhab of Ahmad, Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen, Ata, Dawood, Muhammad ibn Jareer, and Abu Said al-Istakhri among the Shafis are of the view that the thigh is not awrah.
Ibn Battal said: "Those who say that the thigh is not awrah quoted as evidence the hadith of Anas, and the hadith of Zayd ibn Thabit, because if it was awrah, it would have been obligatory to cover it and the Prophet would not have uncovered it on the day of Khaybar, and he would not have left it uncovered in the presence of Abu Bakr and Umar. So what is meant by saying “the thigh is awrah” is because it is near the front and back passage. They were unanimously agreed that if a person prays with his front and back passages uncovered, he has to repeat the prayer, but they differed concerning one who prays with his thigh uncovered. This indicates that the ruling on the thigh is different from the ruling on the front and back passages. If someone were to ask: why did the Prophet cover his knee when Uthman ibn Affan entered upon him? The answer is: The Prophet explained the reason for that when he said: “Should I not feel shy before one before whom the angels of heaven feel shy?". "
Aishah reported:
Allah's Messenger was lying in the bed in my apartment with his thigh uncovered and Abu Bakr sought permission to enter. It was given to him and he conversed in the same very state (the Prophet's thigh or shank uncovered). Then Umar sought permission for entering and it was given to him and he conversed in that very state. Then Uthman sought permission to enter; Allah's Messenger sat down and he set right his clothes. Muhammad (one of the narrators) said: I do not say that it happened on the same day. He (Uthman) then entered and conversed and as he went out, Aishah said: Abu Bakr entered and you did not stir and did not observe much care (in arranging your clothes), then Umar entered and you did not stir and did not arrange your clothes, then Uthman entered and you got up and set your clothes right, so he said: Should I not show modesty to one whom even the Angels show modesty.
(Sahih Muslim 2401)
Argument against: This narration contains ambiguity as to whether it concerned the thigh or shin. This makes it invalid to use this as proof.
Ibn Hajar said: "One of the things that they (i.e., those who say that the thigh is not awrah) quoted as evidence was the words of Anas in this hadith: “My knee was touching the thigh of the Prophet of Allah”, because the apparent meaning would suggest that this touching occurred without a barrier, and touching the awrah without a barrier is not permissible. According to the report of Muslim and those who followed him: the izaar did not uncover it as a result of a deliberate action on the part of the Prophet, but we may conclude that the thigh is not awrah, on the basis that he left it like that, because even though it is possible that this may happen unintentionally, if it was awrah he would not have left it like that, because he was infallible."
Some of those who say that the thigh is not awrah make an exception in two cases:

• When praying

It is not permissible to uncover the thigh when praying, because that is contrary to the command to wear one’s adornment at the time of every prayer.
Shaykh al-Islam said: "So if we follow one of the two views, which is one of the two reports narrated from Ahmad, that the awrah is the front and back passages, and that the thigh is not awrah, this has to do with a man looking at it, but this is not applicable in the case of prayer and tawaaf. It is not permissible for a man to pray with his thighs uncovered, regardless of whether we say that they are awrah or not, and it is not permissible to circumambulate the Kabah (tawaaf) naked."

• At times of temptation

Such as when the one who uncovers his thighs is a source of temptation, as in the case of young men, for example.
Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen said: "What appears to me to be the correct view is that the thigh is not awrah, except in cases where there is the fear of temptation if it is uncovered, in which case it is obligatory to cover it, such as the thighs of a young man."
Zayd ibn Thabit reported: I was sitting next to the Prophet one day when the revelation came to him. The Prophet was overcome with calm and his thigh fell on my thigh as the calm overtook him. By Allah, I have never found anything heavier than the thigh of the Messenger of Allah, then he was relieved from it. The Prophet said: "Write, O Zayd." I took a shoulder bone and the Prophet said, "Write: Not equal are those who remain behind and those who wage jihad among the believers," to the end of the verse, "...a great reward," (4:95). So I wrote that on a shoulder bone.
(Musnad Ahmad 21156, Sahih according to Al-Arna’ut)
This is an invalid argument because it was due to a predominant calm that overcame the Prophet while receiving revelation.
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View of the majority of scholars, is that the thigh is awrah.
The scholars of the Standing Committee were asked: Is the thigh awrah?
They replied:
"The majority of fuqaha are of the view that a man’s thigh is awrah, and they quoted as evidence for that some hadiths, none of which are unproblematic, either because the isnad is not complete, or some of the narrators are daif, but they support one another, so as a whole they may be taken as evidence concerning this matter. One of these hadiths is the hadith that was narrated by Abu Dawood and Ibn Majah from Ali who said: The Messenger of Allah said: “Do not uncover your thigh or look at the thigh of another man, living or dead.” They also quoted the report narrated by Ahmad and by al-Bukhari in his Taareekh, from Muhammad ibn Jahsh who said: The Messenger of Allah passed by Ma‘mar ibn Abdullah, whose thighs were uncovered, and he said: “O Ma‘mar, cover your thighs, for the thighs are awrah.” Another of these reports is that which was narrated by Malik in al-Muwatta, and by Ahmad, Abu Dawood and at-Tirmidhi, from Jarhad al-Aslami, who said: The Messenger of Allah passed by when I was wearing a cloak and had uncovered my thigh. He said: “Cover your thigh, for the thigh is ‘awrah.” It was classed as hasan by at-Tirmidhi.
A number of scholars were of the view that a man’s thigh is not awrah, and they quoted as evidence for that the report narrated by Anas, according to which the Prophet rolled up the izaar from his thigh to the extent that I could see the whiteness of his thigh. Narrated by Ahmad and al-Bukhari. Al-Bukhari said: The hadith of Anas is stronger in terms of isnad, and the hadith of Jarhad is more prudent.
The view of the majority is more prudent, because of what al-Bukhari mentioned, and because the first hadiths address this matter in particular, whereas the hadith of Anas may be interpreted in the different ways. "
Abu Dawood 3140 (very weak by Al-Albani) and Ibn Maajah 1460 (daif by Darussalam) narrated that Ali said: The Messenger of Allah said: “Do not show your thigh, and do not look at the thigh of anyone, living or dead.”
Ahmad 21989 narrated that Muhammad ibn Jahsh said: The Prophet passed by Ma’mar when I was with him, and his thighs were uncovered. He said: “O Ma’mar, cover your thighs, for the thigh is awrah.”
al-Tirmidhi 2798 (hasan by Darussalam) narrated from Ibn Abbaas that the Prophet said: “The thigh is awrah.”
Ahmad 15502, Abu Dawood 4014 (Sahih by Al-Albani) and al-Tirmidhi 2798 (hasan by Darussalam) narrated from Jawhad al-Aslami that the Prophet passed by him when his thigh was uncovered and he said: “Do you not know that the thigh is awrah?”
Shaykh al-Albani said concerning these ahadith: "Although their isnads are not entirely free of weakness, they strengthen one another, because there is no narrator among them who may be regarded as suspicious, rather their weakness has to do with confusion and ambiguity. And there are similar reports which make one confident that the hadith is sahih, especially since some of them were classed as sahih by al-Hakim, and al-Dhahabi agreed with him. And al-Bukhari narrated it in a mu’allaq report in his Sahih… But a number of these isnads give the hadith strength, and raise it to the level of being sahih, especially since there are similar, corroborating reports on the same issue."
Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta:
"Even though there is some weakness in the isnads of these ahadith, as there are gaps in the chain of narrators or there is some weakness in some of the narrators, nevertheless they support one another, and when taken as a whole they provide the required evidence."
The majority of fuqaha are of the view that these ahadith should be followed and they stated that a man’s awrah is from the navel to the knee.
Imam An-Nawawi: “The awrah of the man is what is between his navel and his knees"

Looking at awrah

An-Nawawi said:
The words of the Prophet, “No man should look at the awrah of another man, and no woman should look at the awrah of another woman. No man should lie with another man under the same cover, and no woman should lie with another woman under the same cover,” indicate that it is prohibited for a man to look at the awrah of another man or for a woman to look at the awrah of another woman. There is no difference of scholarly opinion concerning that. Likewise, it is prohibited for a man to look at the awrah of a woman or for a woman to look at the awrah of a man, according to scholarly consensus.
The wording of this hadith, which says that a man should not look at the awrah of another man, implies that he should not look at the awrah of a woman, and it is more appropriate that that should be prohibited.
This prohibition applies to women other than wives and concubines. In the case of spouses, each of them may look at the ‘awrah of the other, with no restrictions. End quote.

Navel

In prayer, it is not required to cover the navel, as this is not awrah. Imam Malik, Imam Shafi'i and Imam Ahmad believe that the navel is not awrah. Imam Ahmad said: "The navel is not awrah. There is no problem with praying with the navel uncovered, just as there is no problem if the navel is covered."
Umair bin Ishaq narrated: "I was with Abu Hurairah, and he said to Al-Hassan bin Ali, show me the place on which the Messenger kissed you on. So al-Hasan bin Ali uncovered his navel and Abu Huraira (also) kissed it." Sharik ibn Abdullah (one of the students of Tabiin) added: "If the navel was considered awrah then Al-Hasan ibn Ali would not have uncovered it."

Knee

The madhahib are of the opinion that the knees are not part of awrah. The narrations indicate that these used to be uncovered.
The Hanafi madhab is of the opinion that the knees fall under awrah. They use a report which says that the Prophet said, "The knees are awrah." (Sunan Daraqutni 878 and others), but this is a weak narration.

Navel, knee awrah?

Ibn Uthaymin said:
“There are several opinions concerning the matter:
One is that the knee is included in the awrah so it must be covered. The second opinion is that the navel and the knee are both part of the awrah so they must both be covered. The third opinion – which is the well-known view among our madhab – is that the navel and the knee are not included in the awrah, so they do not have to be covered. This is based on the definition of the awrah as being “between the navel and the knee .”
He also said: “The awrah for a man is the area between the navel and the knee.”
An-Nawawi said:
Concerning the awrah for men, there are five opinions; the correct view is that it is the area between the navel and the knee, and the navel and the knee are not part of the awrah.
Our evidence for that is what we have quoted above from Abu Darda who said:
While I was sitting with the Prophet, Abu Bakr came, lifted a corner of his garment and uncovering his knee. The Prophet then said: “Your companion has had a quarrel.” Abu Bakr greeted (the Prophet) and said: "O Messenger of Allah, there was something (i.e. quarrel) between me and the Son of Al-Khattab (Umar). I spoke to him harshly and then regretted it, and asked him to forgive me, but he refused. That is why I have come to you." [Sahih al-Bukhari 3661]
Abu Musa narrated that the Prophet was sitting in a place where there was water and his knee or knees were uncovered, then when Uthman came in, he covered them." (al-Bukhari)
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Maliki madhab:
Ibn Habib said: "In the washing of the dead, the same ablution is performed as in wudhu. Then water is poured over him three times. The awrah of the dead is covered, which is between the navel and knees."
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Shafi madhab:
Imam Shafi said: "A man's awrah is that which is below his navel to his knees. Neither his navel nor his knees are part of the awrah (i.e. only what falls in between)."
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Hanbali madhab:
Imam Ahmad said: "The awrah of the man is below the navel to the knee."
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Hanafi madhab:
The awrah of a muslim male is from below the navel up to and including his knees (i.e. the knees are part of the awrah).

Covering shoulders during salah

Majority: not obligatory
Hanbalis: obligatory in fard prayers in particular, prayer is not valid otherwise.
The **majority quoted as evidence: Sa’id ibn al-Haarith narrates: We asked Jabir ibn Abdullah about praying in a single garment and he said: I went out with the Prophet on one of his journeys and I came at night for some purpose, and I found him praying and I was wearing a single garment. I wrapped myself in it and prayed beside him. When he had finished he [Prophet] said: “What is this walking at night O Jaabir?” I told him of my need, and when I had finished he said: “What is this wrapping that I see?” I said: It is too small. He said: “If it is large enough, wrap it around the body, and if it is too small, tie it around your waist.” (al-Bukhari 361)
The Hanbalis quoted as evidence: Abu Hurayrah narrates: The Prophet said: “No one of you should pray in a single garment with nothing on his shoulders.” (al-Bukhari 359 and Muslim 516)
The majority of scholars interpreted this (evidence used by hanbalis) as meaning it is mustahab, so as to reconcile between the reports.
Al-Nawawi said: With regard to the words of the Prophet, “No one of you should pray in a single garment with nothing on his shoulders”, the scholars said: The reason behind it is that if he wraps it around his waist and no part of it is on his shoulders, there is no guarantee that his awrah will not become uncovered, unlike if he places part of it over his shoulder. And because he may need to hold it with his hand or both hands so he will be distracted by that, and will miss out on the Sunnah of placing the right hand over the left hand beneath his chest, and raising the hands when it is Sunnah to do so, and so on. And because he is not covering the upper body which is the place of adornment. Allah says: “Take your adornment (by wearing your clean clothes)” [Quran 7:31]. Moreover Malik, Abu Hanifah, and Shafi and the majority of scholars said that this is a prohibition in the sense of being makruh, and it is not haram. So if a man prays in a single garment that covers his awrah, but no part of it is on his shoulder, then his prayer is valid although it is makruh, whether he was able to put something on his shoulder or not.
Ahmad and some of the salaf said: If he was able to put something over his shoulder, his prayer is not valid unless he covers his shoulder, because of the apparent meaning of the hadith. And another report was narrated from Ahmad stating that his prayer is valid, but he is sinning by not doing that.
The evidence of the majority is the words of the Prophet in the hadith of Jabir: “If it is big enough, wrap it around the body, and if it is too small, tie it around your waist.” (al-Bukhari 361)
Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen said: "Differentiating between obligatory and nafil prayers is contrary to the apparent meaning of the hadith. Moreover, the author said: “with one of his shoulders” but the hadith indicates that both shoulders must be covered. What the author said is the well known view of the madhab. The second opinion is that covering the shoulders is Sunnah and not obligatory, and there is no difference between obligatory and nafil prayers, because of the hadith, “if it is too small, tie it around your waist”. This view is the more correct one, and it is the view of the majority. The idea that there should be something on the shoulders is not because the shoulders are awrah, rather it is so that the clothing may be complete and the waist wrapper be tied properly, because if it is not secured at the shoulders, it may come loose and fall. In this case the covering of the shoulders is sought for another purpose; it is not sought in and of itself."
To sum up: It is not obligatory for a man to cover his shoulders or shoulder blades when praying, but it is mustahab to do so as an adornment and out of respect for the prayer and the fact that he is standing before his Lord, but if he prays with his shoulders or shoulder blade bare, his prayer is valid.

Hey there! We are getting married in Tuscany and looking for an HMUA. We’ve requested quotes from:
Giulia Cresci Ana Kalyntyak Ruslana Regi Jen Hathaway Ana Matanovic/Carla Petrini
A big thing is that I am of South Asian background and have darker skin than many HMUAs in Italy seem used to. All of the above have pictures with darker brides that I like. Many of the above artists are around $1250 for just a trial and day of haimakeup just for the bride. This is over double what we pay in Canada but I’m assuming that is just the going rate in a touristy area?
Thanks for any input and personal recommendations!

The Quran claims that Muhammad is illiterate:

Those who follow the Messenger, the illiterate (ummi) prophet... S. 7:157

Definition of 'Illiterate':-

a person who is unable to read or write.

Therefore, if we find sufficient evidence from the Quran and the ahadith which demonstrate that Muhammad was literate, it would necessitate a reevaluation of the Quranic assertion of his illiteracy.
The prevailing belief among many Muslims is that the historical figure of Muhammad was illiterate and therefore incapable of producing the Quran. However, it is important to note that both the Quran and the ahadith provide evidence that Muhammad possessed the ability to read and write!

Evidence from the Quran

The following verses commanded Muhammad to read:

Read! (Iqra) In the Name of your Lord, Who has created (all that exists) … Read! (Iqra) And your Lord is the Most Generous, Who has taught (the writing) by the pen [the first person to write was Prophet Idrees (Enoch)], S. 96:1, 3-4

The mention of the pen clearly indicates that Muhammad was being directed to read a written text, rather than merely recite spoken words.
In fact, the Quran says that Allah will make Muhammad read the Quran so that he won’t forget it:

We shall make thee read (O Muhammad) so that thou shalt not forget S. 87:6

Other places where Muhammad is commanded to read the Quran include:

When you read the Quran, you shall seek refuge in GOD from Satan the rejected. S. 16:98
When you read the Quran, we place between you and those who do not believe in the Hereafter an invisible barrier. S. 17:45
A Quran that we have released slowly, in order for you to read it to the people over a long period, although we sent it down all at once. S. 17:106
And lo! It is a revelation of the Lord of the Worlds, Which the True Spirit hath brought down Upon thy heart, that thou mayst be (one) of the warners, In plain Arabic speech. And lo! it is in the Scriptures of the men of old. Is it not a token for them that the doctors of the Children of Israel know it? And if We had revealed it unto one of any other nation than the Arabs, And he had read it unto them, they would not have believed in it. S. 26:192-199
Your Lord knows that you meditate during two-thirds of the night, or half of it, or one-third of it, and so do some of those who believed with you. GOD has designed the night and the day, and He knows that you cannot always do this. He has pardoned you. Instead, you shall read what you can of the Quran. He knows that some of you may be ill, others may be traveling in pursuit of GOD's provisions, and others may be striving in the cause of GOD. You shall read what you can of it, and observe the contact prayers (Salat), give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and lend GOD a loan of righteousness. Whatever good you send ahead on behalf of your souls, you will find it at GOD far better and generously rewarded. And implore GOD for forgiveness. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful. 73:20
and, when the Koran is read to them, do not adore? S. 84:21

The evidence strongly suggests that Muhammad had access to a manuscript from which he could read to the people. Without access to such a manuscript, it raises the question of what he would have been reading from.
If a Muslim claims that the above texts do not necessarily mean that Muhammad was reading an actual book, because there was no Quranic manuscript for him to read, note what the following passage states:

Those who disbelieve say: "This (the Qur'an) is nothing but a lie that he (Muhammad SAW) has invented, and others have helped him at it, so that they have produced an unjust wrong (thing) and a lie." And they say: "Tales of the ancients, which he has written down, and they are dictated to him morning and afternoon." S. 25:4-5

Not only did Muhammad have the Quran written down, showing that he had access to an actual manuscript that he could read, the Quran even refers to pure pages that Muhammad was reading to the people:

A messenger from Allah, reading purified pages (yatlu suhufan mutahharatan) S. 98:1-2

The term suhuf refers to an actual scripture just as the following verse proves:

The Books (suhuf) of Abraham and Moses. S. 87:19

Therefore, we can now conclude that the Quran provides compelling evidence supporting the claim that Muhammad possessed the ability to read and write. A more in-depth examination of the ahadith is now necessary to further substantiate this assertion.

Evidence from the Ahadith

Narrated Anas bin Malik: Once the Prophet wrote a letter or had an idea of writing a letter. The Prophet was told that they (rulers) would not read letters unless they were sealed. So the Prophet got a silver ring made with "Muhammad Allah's Apostle" engraved on it. As if I were just observing its white glitter in the hand of the Prophet… (Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 3, Number 65)
Narrated Anas bin Malik: When the Prophet (ﷺ) intended to write to the Byzantines, it was said to him, "Those people do not read your letter unless it is stamped." So the Prophet (ﷺ) took a silver ring and got 'Muhammad, the Apostle of Allah' engraved on it .... as if I am now looking at its glitter in his hand. (Sahih Al Bukhari, Volume 7, Book 72, Number 764)
Narrated Anas bin Malik: When the Prophet (ﷺ) intended to write to the Byzantines, the people said, "They do not read a letter unless it is sealed (stamped)." Therefore the Prophet (ﷺ) took a silver ring----as if I am looking at its glitter now----and its engraving was: 'Muhammad, Apostle of Allah'. (Sahih Al Bukhari, Volume 9, Book 89, Number 276)
Narrated 'Ursa: The Prophet wrote the (marriage contract) with 'Aisha while she was six years old and consummated his marriage with her while she was nine years old and she remained with him for nine years (i.e. till his death). (Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 7, Book 62, Number 88)
Narrated 'Ubaidullah bin 'Abdullah: Ibn 'Abbas said, "When the ailment of the Prophet became worse, he said, 'Bring for me (writing) paper and I will write for you a statement after which you will not go astray.' But 'Umar said, 'The Prophet is seriously ill, and we have got Allah's Book with us and that is sufficient for us.' But the companions of the Prophet differed about this and there was a hue and cry. On that the Prophet said to them, 'Go away (and leave me alone). It is not right that you should quarrel in front of me." Ibn 'Abbas came out saying, ""It was most unfortunate (a great disaster) that Allah's Apostle was prevented from writing that statement for them because of their disagreement and noise. (Sahih al-Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 3, Number 114)
Narrated Ibn `Abbas: When the time of the death of the Prophet (ﷺ) approached while there were some men in the house, and among them was Umar bin Al-Khatttab, the Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Come near let me write for you a writing after which you will never go astray."Umar said, "The Prophet (ﷺ) is seriously ill, and you have the Qur'an, so Allah's Book is sufficient for us." The people in the house differed and disputed. Some of them said, "Come near so that Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) may write for you a writing after which you will not go astray," while some of them said what Umar said. When they made much noise and differed greatly before the Prophet, he said to them, "Go away and leave me." IbnAbbas used to say, "It was a great disaster that their difference and noise prevented Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) from writing that writing for them. (Sahih Al Bukhari, Volume 9, Book 92, Number 468)
Narrated Yazid ibn Abdullah: We were at Mirbad. A man with dishevelled hair and holding a piece of red skin in his hand came. We said: You appear to be a bedouin. He said: Yes. We said: Give us this piece of skin in your hand. He then gave it to us and we read it. It contained the text: "From Muhammad, Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), to Banu Zuhayr ibn Uqaysh. If you bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, offer prayer, pay zakat, pay the fifth from the booty, and the portion of the Prophet (ﷺ) and his special portion (safi), you will be under by the protection of Allah and His Apostle." We then asked: Who wrote this document for you? He replied: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ). (Sunan Abi Dawud Book 19, Number 2993)
Narrated Al-Bara' bin 'Azib (RA):The Prophet (ﷺ) sent 'Ali to Yemen. The narrator mentioned the complete Hadith. He said, "Ali sent a letter regarding their (the people of Yemen) acceptance of Islam. When Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) read the letter, he prostrated in gratitude to Allah the Most High for that." [Reported by al-Baihaqi].

Muhammad also had access to Syriac books. He also commanded Zaid Bin Thabit to learn the Syriac Language and the book of the Jews:

Ibn Hajar said in Al-Fath: It can be made that he learned their language, reading and writing, because he used to read their books to him and write to them if he wanted to write to them. This is indicated by Al-Tirmidhi’s classification of this hadith by saying: Chapter on what was mentioned in teaching the Syriacs, and in it he mentioned another narration that says In it Zaid: The Messenger of God, may God’s prayers and peace be upon him, commanded me to learn Syriac, and in Sunan Abu Dawud: Zaid bin Thabit - may God be pleased with him - said: The Messenger of God, may God’s prayers and peace be upon him and his family, commanded me to learn the book of the Jews for him, and he said: By God, no Jews believed in my book. So I learned it, and only half a month passed before I mastered it. I would write to him when he wrote, and I would read to him when he wrote to him.
The author of Awn al-Ma’boud said: The Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, commanded me, that is, to learn the book of the Jews, so I learned for him, that is, for the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace. He said, meaning, the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, is a conjunction of my command to explain the reason for the matter. The Jews did not believe in my book, that is, I fear if I commanded a Jew. By writing a book to the Jews, or reading a book that the Jews had come to add or subtract from, so I learned it, i.e., a Jewish book, until I mastered it with the dictionary dhāl and waqf, meaning I knew it, mastered it, and taught it, so I used to write for him, i.e., for the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, whenever he wrote, i.e., if he wanted to write.

Al-Tahawi said in Al-Mu’tasir:

It was narrated from Zaid Bin Thabbit, that he said:
The Messenger (PBUH) said: “Do you know Syriac well? I receive Syriac books.” Zaid said: “No.” The Messenger (PBUH) said: “Learn it (Syriac Language).” Zaid said: “So I learned it in seventeen days.”
https://islamweb.net/afatwa/161555/

The evidence from additional hadiths (links given below) attributed to Muhammad strongly indicates his ability to write.
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:2699
https://sunnah.com/mishkat:4049
https://sunnah.com/muslim:1637b
https://sunnah.com/muslim:1637c
https://sunnah.com/nasai:3101
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:3053
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:4431
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:7366
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:5669
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:114
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:4432
https://sunnah.com/muslim:2387
https://sunnah.com/abudawud:4505
https://sunnah.com/abudawud:3649
https://sunnah.com/tirmidhi:2667
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:6880
https://sunnah.com/muslim:1355a
https://sunnah.com/abudawud:4214
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:2938
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:5875
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:7162
https://sunnah.com/nasai:5201
https://sunnah.com/muslim:2092d
https://sunnah.com/muslim:2092e
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:65
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:5872
https://sunnah.com/shamail:89
https://sunnah.com/muslim:2092c
https://sunnah.com/tirmidhi:2715
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:2377
https://sunnah.com/bukhari:5158

Muhammad's Literacy in the Sirat(s)

Muhammad could read and write as we read in Sirat Ibn Ishaq, Kitab at-Tabaqat al-Kabir' by Abu 'Abdullah Muhammad ibn Sa'd, and Al Sira Al Nabawiyya by Ibn Kathir:
Sirat Ibn Ishaq
https://archive.org/details/TheLifeOfMohammedGuillaume
Page 106, about the cave of Hira revelation:

So I (Muhammad) read it, and he departed from me.

Page 649, about correspondence with Musaylima

Musaylima had written to the apostle: ‘From Musaylima the apostle of God to Muhammad the apostle of God. Peace upon you. I have been made partner with you in authority. To us belongs half the land and to Quraysh half, but Quraysh are a hostile people.’ Two messengers brought this letter. A shaykh of Ashja’ told me on the authority of Salama b. Nu’aym b. Mas’ud al-Ashja’I from his father Nu’aym: I heard the apostle saying to them when he read his letter ‘What do you say about it?’ They said that they said the same as Musaylima. He replied, ‘By God, were it not that heralds are not to be killed I would behead the pair of you !’ Then he wrote to Musaylima: ‘From Muhammad the apostle of God to Musaylima the liar. Peace be upon him who follows the guidance. The earth is God’s. He lets whom He will of His creatures inherit it and the result is to the pious. This was at the end of the year 10.

Page 256

The apostle wrote to the Jews of Khaybar according to what a freedman of the family of Zayd b. Thabit told me from ‘Ikrima or from Sa‘id b. Jubayr from Ibn ‘Abbas: “In the name of God the compassionate the merciful from Muhammad the apostle of God friend and brother of Moses who confirms what Moses brought…”

• KITAB AT-TABAQAT AL-KABIR' by **Abu 'Abdullah Muhammad ibn Sa'd, one of the most important and earliest surviving collections of biographical details of the early Muslims, spanning just over the first two centuries of Islam** https://religion.antropo.es/libros/fuentes-islamicas/Ibn-Sad_Kitab-al-tabaqat-al-kabir.pdf

Volume 1, Parts II.73.2

He (Ibn Sa'd) said: Al-Haytham Ibn 'Adi al-Ta'i informed us; he said: Mujàlid Ibn Sa'id and Zakariyá Ibn Abi Zà'idah informed us on the authority of al-Sha'bi; he said: The Apostle of Allah, may Allah bless him, used to write after the style of the Quraysh: In Thy name, 0 Allah! Then the verse, "Embark therein! In the name of Allah be its course and its mooring," (Qur'an, 11:41) was revealed, **and he began to write: In the name of Allah.**Then the verse, "Cry unto Allah or cry unto the Beneficent" (Qur'an, 17:110) was revealed, and he began to write; In the name of Allah the Beneficent. Then the verse, "Lo ! it is from Solomon, and Lo ! it is: In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful" (Qur'an, 27: 30) was revealed, and he began to write: In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.

Volume 1, Parts II.73.3

He (Ibn Sa'd) said: Al-Haytham Ibn 'Adi informed us; Dalham Ibn Salih and Abu Bakr al-Hudhali informed us on the authority of 'Abd Allah Ibn Buraydah, he on the authority of his father, Buraydah Ibn al-Husayb alAslami; (second chain) he (Ibn Sa'd) said: Muhammad Ibn Ishaq related to us on the authority of Yazid Ibn Rumàn and al-Zuhri; (third chain) he (Ibn Sa'd) said: Al-Hasan Ibn 'Umàrah related to us on the authority of Firas, he on the authority of al-Sha'bi; their narrations are mixed up: He (Ibn Sa'd) said: The Apostle of Allah, may Allah bless him, wrote [P.20] an epistle to the people of Yaman detailing in it the regulations of Islam and duties on animals and properties. He directed them to treat his Companions and messengers well, and his messengers were Mu'adh Ibn Jabal and Malik Ibn Murarah. He informed them about the coming of their messengers to him and acknowledged the message which he had received from them. They said: The Apostle of Allah, may Allah bless him,wrote personal letters to several persons of Yaman; the names of some of them are, alHarith Ibn 'Abd Kulál, Shurayh Ibn 'Abd Kulal, Nu'aym Ibn 'Abd Kulál, Nu'man the prince of Dhu Yazan, Ma'àfir and Hamdan and Zur'ah of Ru'ayn; and the last was the first of Himyarites to embrace Islam... The Apostle of Alláh, may Allah bless him, wrote to them that Malik Ibn Murárah had delivered the message and defended their right in absentia. They said: The Apostle of Allah, may Allah bless him, wrote to Musaylimah, the liar, may Allah damn him, inviting him to join the fold of Islam, and sent it through 'Amr Ibn Ummayyah [P. 26] al-Damri. Musaylimah wrote a reply to his epistle saying that he (Musaylimah) was a prophet like him, and asked him to divide the Earth; he also added that the Quraysh were not just. The Apostle of Allah, may Allah bless him, said: Curse him; Allah has also cursed him. The Prophet wrote to him: your letter (full of) falsehood and fabrications against Allah has reached me... They said: The Apostle of Allah, may Allah bless him, wrote a similar epistle to Bang Mu'awiyah, a branch of Kindah.

• Volume 1, Parts II.74.83

'Ath'ath Ibn Zahr and Anas lbn Mudrik waited on the Apostle of Allah, may Allah bless him, with the members of the Khath'am after Jarir Ibn 'Abd Allah had broken Dhua'l-Khalasah and had slain those of Khath'am whom he had slain. Then they said: We believe in Allah, His Apostle and what was revealed by Allah. (They said) write a document for us so that we may follow what might be written therein. Thereupon he wrote a document for him and Jarir Ibn 'Abd Allah and those present testified to it.

THERE ARE MORE EVIDENCES BUT I WILL NOT PROVIDE ALL
AL SIRA AL NABAWIYYA by Ibn Kathir (4 Volumes)
https://archive.org/details/AlSiraAlNabawiyyaByIbnKathirAllVolumesInOnePdf

• Volume I P33

when the Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote to Chosroe inviting him to accept Islam, he became enraged, tore up the letter and then wrote his own instructions

• Volume I P234

the Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote to the Jews of Khaybar as follows, “In the name of God the most merciful and beneficent, from Muhammad, the Messenger of God, …”

• Volume I P267

He wrote a document for us as follows: “In the name of God, the most Merciful and most Beneficent; this is from Muhammad, the Messenger of God, …”

• Volume I P273

Amr b. Murra and those others of his people who had accepted Islam then went to the Prophet (SAAS). He welcomed and honoured them and wrote for them a document, the text of which was as follows, 'In the name of God, the most Merciful, the most Beneficent, this document is from God through the tongue of the Messenger of God and is a trustworthy document…”

• Volume II P122

… the Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote to Mus'ab b. Umayr telling him to establish the Friday prayer

• Volume II P 212

… the Prophet (SAAS)__** wrote up a contract between the Emigrants saying that they would respect one another's strongholds, that they would treat with kindness those in distress and bring peace between the Muslims.**
The sahih collection of Muslim quotes Jabir as saying, "The Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote an aqula, a blood-wit pact, for each sub-tribe." Muhammad b. Ishaq stated, "The Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote a contract between the Emigrants and the Helpers…”

• Volume II P242

…the Messenger of God (SAAS) sent forth 'Abd All& b. Jahsh b. Ri'ab al-Asadi along with eight Emigrants; … He wrote a letter for 'Abd All& b. Jahsh…

• Volume IV P72

They asked them, “Uthman and Abd al-Rahman, your Prophet wrote us a letter and we have come in response to it…”

• Volume IV P73

When they went to him next day,** he wrote for them the following document, 'In the name of God, the most Merciful, the most Beneficent. This is written by Muhammad, the Prophet, the untutored, the Messenger of God, to Najran…”**

• Volume IV P75

The bishop, Abu al-Harith, went to the Messenger of God (SAAS), along with al-Sayyid, al-Aqib and important persons from their people…. He wrote the document for the bishop and those bishops to come after him: 'In the name of God, the most Merciful, the most Beneficent. From.Muhammad, the Prophet,…”

• Volume IV P100

The Messenger of God (SAAS) then wrote a letter to this Mutarrif…

• Volume IV P101

The Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote them the following document…

• Volume IV P103

“The following is the letter we have that the Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote for 'Amr b. Hazam…”

• Volume IV P113

”He then wrote a document appointing me their leader … He then wrote me another document.”

• Volume IV P123

The Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote a document to this effect, as follows, "In the name of God, the most Merciful and Beneficent. This records what Muhammad, Messenger of God, has given to Rabi, Mutrif and Anas…”

• Volume IV P134

The Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote back to him as follows…

• Volume IV P135

He wrote him a document specifying his charge and his orders to him.

• Volume IV P318

…the Messenger of God (SAAS) wrote to him and he restored it to them.

• Volume IV P496

The Prophet (SAAS) **wrote a letter to those of Banu Jurash who accepted Islam,**ordering them to peform the prayer, pay the zakat, and to donate one-fifth of the booty they took.

THERE ARE MORE EVIDENCES BUT I WILL NOT PROVIDE ALL because I am too lazy.
The evidence presented in this post strongly supports the claim that Muhammad was literate and not illiterate, as claimed by the Quran and the Muslims! So, the answer to the question in the title is a BIG NO.

I’m in the process of getting life insurance talked to a few agents and have no idea what I’m doing and don’t want to pay into something and my beneficiaries not be paid out. I’m a single mom of 2 and want them to be taken care of in the event of my passing. I’m 35yrs old, have a history of thyroid cancer (only required surgery) 10yrs ago with no reoccurrence, 2021 I tested positive for ANA Anti Nuclear Antibodies making me Autoimmune (psoriatic arthritis) haven’t had any flares, doesn’t interfere with life other than mild joint pain. Only medication I’m on daily is Levothyroxine due to the removal of half of my thyroid. The best I’ve been quoted thus far is a 40yr term life $800,000 for $79.55/ a month $500,000 thru Mutual of Omaha and $300,000 from Fidelity Life. Neither company is requesting a medical screening. What questions should I ask? Are those insurance companies good? Do they pay out the beneficiaries without hassle? Is there anything I should watch out for? Any advice is welcome. Thanks in advance.

I know that Taylor made a donation to the victim who was killed at the Chief’s parade. Well, not a lot to her but $100,000. So it’s nice but considering her billionaire status, not that impressive. It’s like $1 to her lol. On the flip side, she gave Ana Clara Benevides family…concert tix?!?!
She really could have done something impactful for Ana’s family…like start a scholarship fund for a student from Brazil in Ana’s name, start a foundation. The swifties all got together and had a go fund me to fly Ana’s body back to her family. Taylor did not donate.
With the absorbent amount of wealth Taylor has- like- it will be impossible for her to ever spend it in her lifetime- I can’t understand why she hordes it, wants more, and just can’t help people. I know it’s not her responsibility but for example Madonna has the Ray of Light Foundation, Lady Gaga has the Born this way foundation, Beyoncee has the BeyGOOD None of them are billionaires. Even Olivia Rodrigo- who Taylor is stealing money from right now to contribute to her billionaire status- has started a charity called “Fund 4 Good” as well as Billie Eilish having The Fender Play Foundation.
I remember Britney had that theater camp for underprivileged kids which strangely, Taylor was also in attendance as a child 🤣
I can’t wrap my brain around the fact that Taylor does not do anything like this. She was Time’s “Person of the Year” and she…complained about Kim Kardashian first half the article, complained that football fans don’t like her in the rest, as well as quoted the movie Gladiator 🤣 (“Are you not entertained?” and this is the person of the year? Who has nothing interesting to say?
I know she donates here and there but she would be really impactful actually running an organization to help others.

I saw a post a few weeks back requesting channels to follow in order to be more productive, happy, healthy, in short more adult. I already had this list at the time, but it was all over the place with no labels or descriptions. Some are super serious, some are cringey at first, most are very informative and entertaining (for me)
In short I wasn't able to pitch in, but I really wanted to share my list with them cos changing my media diet helped me be consistent with my new life direction. I've placed classifications and some descriptions, you can skip the headers and creators you're not interested in or already know, but I especially recommend going thru those with *** sa title.
Happy adulting
Note to mods: I don't own or know any of these creators, I'm not promoting these for any personal gain, I just want to share these that helped me, for educational purpose. If this breaks any rules please let me know how I can fix it
YouTube:
Gcflearnfree.Org
**Productivity Dan Koe - *digital business model, this guy is a bit intense but has some good ideas Ali abdaal - digital tools, personal productivity systems Thomas frank - time management tips Alex Hormozi - intense entrepreneur but also some useful ideas Jim Kwik - study/learning tips ADHD Jesse - helping people with short attention span be more productive, understanding and coping with ADHD Canva - everyone should know how to use to some degree Y Combinator - docs about startups
**Psychology: Charisma on demand - *speaking skills Psych2go - bite-sized psych lessons, some are useful Ana Psychology - in-depth documentaries, but easy to understand Cinema Therapy - using movies to undestand psych
***Useful general info - Documentaries: Big think Ted Ed / Talks Talks at Google Khan academy Better than yesterday Principles by ray dalio WELT Docs Veritasium
**Money skills: Next level life - *Personal Finance Charm de Leon / Ready2adultph - Personal Finance for Pinoys Mr Money Moustache - FIRE movement, defunct channel but good
**Life advice/Philosophy: Dry creek wrangler school - *cowboy with wisdon Wisdom of the ages - Quotes The School of Life - contemporary life philosophy Daily Stoic - life philosophy based on the Roman stoics Briefed - Ancient Greek philosophy, in simple terms Legendary Lore - similar to briefed
Motivation and gym playlist: Poetry and motivation by billy alsbrooks Walter bond Et the hiphoppreacher Marcus elevation Taylor
Bible-based: Grace for purpose Above inspiration
Lifestyle skills for men: Real men real style Gentleman's gazette GQ Dad, how do I? - cool dad teaching those without dad's how to fix things, I still use this even if I have a dad lol
Money docus Old Money Documentaries - mostly entertainment but good to know the rise and fall of old rich The Competitive Investor - like old money docs but pinoy The Swedish investor - moguls in their early years
Housing in the PH: Slater Young - construction guy explains building houses and stuff
Gym/Health: Athlean x - body building Hybrid calisthenics - same as Athleanx, but different Squat University - many useful exercises to help with chronic aches and pains
More on health: Dr. Eric Berg - diet based health Dr. Andrew Huberman - neurologist for health tips Prep Medic - first aid, mostly entertaining maybe a bit useful
Useful Random Info NegotiationMastery - Black Swan Group negotiation tips SumSub - General internet documentaries Jim Browning - Scam buster expert (more on entertainment)
Science (to help you stay sharp): Be Smart - sciency PBS Eons - sciencier Real Science - SciShow Practical Engineering Smarter Everyday
News: Behind Asia/ behind Philippines
Websites: https://liwanagan.com/2022/11/29/free-online-learning-resources/?amp=1
IG: @thejamiebrindle - tips for freelancers thekarangupta - AI stuff travisbrown - side hustle stuff, some are too radical some are doable razvanpb - Youtube Automation the.business.temple lifegiveusalemon - quotes and feel good stuff

Please bear with me as this is going to be a long rant.
Chala badha ga undi anduke meetho share cheskuntuna. Andariki cheptuna vinandi once mana desham daati bayatiki vaste vollu degara petukoni undandi, girls ni antha easy ga nammakandi. Asalu ee effect nunchi koluntano leka pothanoo kuda artham avatle. Almost 1 year nunchi naaloney daachi petukuna inka na valla kaka kakkestunna. Karma enti ante dani peru tattoo kuda undi..na body ni naku chuskovali ana asahyam vestundi.
I’m 27M moved to the US as an international student 2.5 years ago from India and graduated from a top-tier university. During the first year of school, I was invited to my friend's house party and went there. I saw a girl (25F) which was the instant spark for me at the time. We all partied till late night and surprisingly she proposed me the next day. I took a week time to think about her to get into the relationship without prior dating. By the time she was already working making good money and lives in a different city. Even though she was living in a different city we never felt it was like a long distance relationship because most of the time we would be together. I used to spend a lot of money just to fly to her city and be there for.
Initially we had many differences but still sorted out everything and moved on further. I used to spend a lot of money just for her happiness. I was there for her during good and bad. I never left her side even when she had COVID for 2 weeks, cooked her food, made fruit juices also slept with her. She was never there for me when I got infected for COVID because of her. I was alone in my room ordered food and ate. She told me different reasons which is totally crap.
After a year of relationship, she went to her home country to see her parents and came back engaged to her ex. I was devastated when I heard this news from a mutual friend. I broke up with her immediately. After a month or so she came back to me telling that she broke the engagement with her ex because she loves me. I loved her selflessly before and listening to her explanation I believed her shamelessly and got patched up.
Fast forward to last year, I bought a car which I could afford that time putting her as a co-signer. I’m from a business family back in my home country and had everything. One day we lost everything because of local government and political grudge and my family was almost on the roads. We literally lost everything. Later my mom got diagnosed with cancer and we had no money for her treatment and my father is a heart patient. I had to start working in a small store to support my family and myself here.
When she heard all of this, she instantly broke up with me (she was already cheating on me by then sleeping with different guys, which I got to know later). I realised she only used me for my money and background I had. I racked up to $20k debt in credit cards because of her. She’s borrowed money from me which she never paid back.
I graduated last year and since then I’ve been looking for a full time job to support my family and mom’s treatment. Unfortunately, I had no luck till date. I started living in my own car, moved to a different state working in a store for $10/hr and also applying for full time jobs as well. Whatever money I was earning at the store supported my moms treatment and family in my home country. Luckily, the food was completely free for me at the store. My bad I’ve lost this store job as well some days ago.
Meanwhile this girl has been abusing and torturing me to remove her from the car loan as a co-signer. She knows in what situation I am in and yet doesn’t care about that. I owe $33k on car additionally which is a burden. I have checked online quotes on car dealership websites to sell it but the quote they gave me was low where I have to spend additional $10k to clear the loan. I tried selling it on marketplace where who ever approached me was a scammer with fraudulent checks. I have fallen behind my credit card payments, my credit score got fucked up and even my family is suffering back there. I don’t even have money to book a flight to see my parents today. I have lost everything.
The recession is very bad to find a job. I haven’t slept peacefully in the last one year. I’m tired of asking money here and there for my payments and family support. She’s also blackmailing me that she would call my dad and tell him about all the issues that I’m facing here if I don’t remove her as the co-signer within a week. I’m worried my dad is a heart patient and he wouldn’t be able to take all this if he gets to know in this situation. I’m out of options. I have lost hope in god because there’s no god. I don’t want to be the extra burden and also not a right son to my parents. I just can’t take this anymore.