CHICAGO (AP) — Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot urged residents in the nation’s third-largest city to restrict social gatherings to 10 people, part of a renewed push announced Thursday to fight a COVID-19 surge.

Lightfoot implored Chicagoans to “cancel the normal Thanksgiving plans,” saying the skyrocketing cases show no signs of slowing and urgent steps were needed immediately. She stopped short of making the limitations mandatory, calling them a progressive step: “I hope we don’t have to go any further than this.”

The limitations on gatherings, which takes effect Monday for 30 days, were announced with a fresh stay-at-home advisory urging residents to venture out only for essential things, like going to work or grocery shopping. Chicago already bars indoor dining under state rules announced last month.

“If we continue on the path we’re on, and you and me and others don’t step up and do more, our estimates are that we could see 1,000 more Chicagoans die from this virus by the end of the year,” Lightfoot said at a news conference.

A month ago, Chicago was reporting 500 daily cases on average. Now, Chicago is averaging roughly 1,900 daily cases. In the same time period, the rate of positive tests has nearly tripled to 14%.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker has made similar pleas for Illinoisans to stay home, saying he could step up restrictions if things don’t change. State officials on Thursday reported 12,702 new COVID-19 cases, including 43 more deaths. Overall, Illinois has reported 536,542 cases and 10,477 deaths.

Chicago officials have advised against travel to states with high infection rates for months.

A revamped travel order announced earlier this week requires a two-week quarantine or negative COVID-19 test depending on the state. City residents who travel face the same rules upon return.

City officials have threatened hefty fines for those who don’t comply, but there appears to be little enforcement. WBBM-TV reported last month that no fines were issued in the first three months of the travel order.Article Courtesy middletownpress.com

Over 60 scholars, imams, NGOs and Muslim community leaders have signed a statement in defense of our noble Prophet (pbuh) and in solidarity with French Muslims.

We, the undersigned, condemn the recurrent insults towards the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), and the insistence of the French government to defend them. This crosses a red line that rightly draws the contempt of Muslims across the world.

We are alarmed by the French government’s violent crackdown on its Muslim citizens which has seen the closure of mosques, schools, businesses and attempts to dissolve mainstream civil society organizations, such as the anti-Islamophobia group CCIF and humanitarian relief charity, Baraka City. These are celebrated organizations that conduct their activities in a lawful manner. They should not be harassed by the state.

Recent statements by the President Emmanuel Macron and the Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin have been irrational and aggressive, deliberately targeting a minority community. Already there are reports that two Muslim women were stabbed close to the Eiffel Tower on 21 October 2020 in an Islamophobic attack. Such incidents do not take place in a vacuum..

The Interior Minister made the shocking public admission that dozens of individuals not linked to any criminal investigation, were raided in order to simply send a message to Muslims in France. This extraordinary claim highlights that the police and other arms of government have been politicized to intimidate otherwise innocent Muslim citizens.

Muslim communities and organizations stand in solidarity with France’s Muslims. We call on the French government to end its campaign of hostility towards those carrying out their duties lawfully. Muslims in France should be afforded the rights that others are guaranteed; to live fully, without facing state oppression.

Mohammed Kozbar, Finsbury Park Mosque

Imam Yousaf Baig, Wifaqul Ulama

Shaqur Rehman, Islamic Council of Europe

Zahir Mahmood, As-Suffa Institute

Shaykh Suliman Gani, Purley Masjid

Shaykh Dr. Haitham Al-Haddad, AlMarkaz Centre for Revival & Reform Studies

Shaykh Farid Haibatan, Muslim Research & Development Foundation

Shakeel Begg, Lewisham Islamic Centre

Dr. Omar Suleiman, Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research

Prof. Dr. Sami Al-Arian, Center for Islam and Global Affairs (CIGA) – Istanbul, Turkey

Dr Yasir Qadhi, The Islamic Seminary of America

Yasemin Yürekli, EMISCO – European Muslim Initiative for Social Cohesion

Dr Shazad Amin, MEND

Imran Shah, Muslim Public Affairs Committee UK

Dr Asim Qureshi, CAGE

Wasim Kempson, The Wise Muslim

Ragad Altikriti, Muslim Association of Britain

Yahya Birt

Imam Yahya Ibrahim, Islamic Community Services

Fatih Atmaca, Imam of Balgreen Masjid and Chair of Edinburgh Turkish Community

Zahid Akhtar, Documenting Oppression Against Muslims

Rafiq ibn Jubair, IlmFeed

Fadel Soliman, Bridges Foundation

Roshan Muhammed Salih, 5Pillars News

Anas Altikriti, The Cordoba Foundation, UK

Salman Butt, Islam21c

Tasneem Najwa, Nakheel Women’s Group

Hasib Noor, Founder & Director of The Legacy Institute

Samira Sabir, Centrum de Middenweg

Oguzhan Yürekli, European Yozgat Federation

Dr Mohammed Rafiq Habib, Muslim Council of Scotland

Abdul Wahid, Hizb ut Tahrir  Britain

Shabbir Hassan, Faith Space UK

Bilal Ismail, Alkauthar Institute

Abdelmonim Elhakim, British Islamic Medical Association

Abdur Rashid,UK Islamic Mission

Shaykh Bilal Brown, Marifah Institute

Abid Khan, Cheadle Mosque

Abdullah Patel, Masjid e Umar (Gloucester)

Mohammed Farook Kazi, Al-Ansaar Welfare & Education

Muhammad Uddin, Newham Muslim Forum

Imam Sheikh Mohammad Ismail, United Mosque Council of South Yorkshire  and Jamiat Ulama UK

Muhammad Mulla, Masjid-e-Umer (London)

Bakhtiar Ahmad, Masjid Salaam

Dr Louay Al-Alousi, Masjid-us-Sunnah

Omar Hajaj, West London Islamic Cultural Centre

Usman Qureshi, Norbury Muslim Centre

Nayeem Haque, Muslim Youth Network

Nicolas Blancho, Islamic Central Council of Switzerland

Muhammad Jalal, The Thinking Muslim Podcast

Firdosa Akhter, Aligarh Muslim University

Amanj Aziz, Nyans Muslim (Sweden)

Muhammad Delair, Madinatul Uloom

Rahma Bavelaar, Meld Islamofobie/Report Islamophobia (Netherlands)

Mohammed Lockhat, The Peace Centre

Dr. Aysha Wazwa, Gems of Light

Yusuf Ríos, Islamic Learning Foundation (Chicago USA)

Fahmi Adzha, International Islamic Federation Of Student Organizations (Turkey)

Tahir Alam, Muslim Parents Association

Dr. Maria Saleemi, Lahore College for Women University (Pakistan)

Ismail Kamdar, Islamic Self Help

Bilal Ismail, Imam Development Program

Yacoob Hafejee, Madrasah Taleemul Islam

Syed N Hoque, As-Subah Academy

Muhammad Mustaqeem Shah, Al Istiqāmah

Abul Barakat Monawar Hasan, Centre for Islamic Guidance UK

Zainulabedin Amir, Woodfarm Education Centre

Hashim Gora, Al Hashim academy

Abdallah Mohamed Elsaeidy, Hamad Medical Corporation Doha (Qatar)

Article Courtesy: 5pillarsuk.com

Over 60 scholars, imams, NGOs and Muslim community leaders have signed a statement in defense of our noble Prophet (pbuh) and in solidarity with French Muslims.

We, the undersigned, condemn the recurrent insults towards the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), and the insistence of the French government to defend them. This crosses a red line that rightly draws the contempt of Muslims across the world.
We are alarmed by the French government’s violent crackdown on its Muslim citizens which has seen the closure of mosques, schools, businesses and attempts to dissolve mainstream civil society organizations, such as the anti-Islamophobia group CCIF and humanitarian relief charity, Baraka City. These are celebrated organizations that conduct their activities in a lawful manner. They should not be harassed by the state.
Recent statements by the President Emmanuel Macron and the Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin have been irrational and aggressive, deliberately targeting a minority community. Already there are reports that two Muslim women were stabbed close to the Eiffel Tower on 21 October 2020 in an Islamophobic attack. Such incidents do not take place in a vacuum..
The Interior Minister made the shocking public admission that dozens of individuals not linked to any criminal investigation, were raided in order to simply send a message to Muslims in France. This extraordinary claim highlights that the police and other arms of government have been politicized to intimidate otherwise innocent Muslim citizens.
Muslim communities and organizations stand in solidarity with France’s Muslims. We call on the French government to end its campaign of hostility towards those carrying out their duties lawfully. Muslims in France should be afforded the rights that others are guaranteed; to live fully, without facing state oppression.
Mohammed Kozbar, Finsbury Park Mosque
Imam Yousaf Baig, Wifaqul Ulama
Shaqur Rehman, Islamic Council of Europe
Zahir Mahmood, As-Suffa Institute
Shaykh Suliman Gani, Purley Masjid
Shaykh Dr. Haitham Al-Haddad, AlMarkaz Centre for Revival & Reform Studies
Shaykh Farid Haibatan, Muslim Research & Development Foundation
Shakeel Begg, Lewisham Islamic Centre
Dr. Omar Suleiman, Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research
Prof. Dr. Sami Al-Arian, Center for Islam and Global Affairs (CIGA) – Istanbul, Turkey
Dr Yasir Qadhi, The Islamic Seminary of America
Yasemin Yürekli, EMISCO – European Muslim Initiative for Social Cohesion
Dr Shazad Amin, MEND
Imran Shah, Muslim Public Affairs Committee UK
Dr Asim Qureshi, CAGE
Wasim Kempson, The Wise Muslim
Ragad Altikriti, Muslim Association of Britain
Yahya Birt
Imam Yahya Ibrahim, Islamic Community Services
Fatih Atmaca, Imam of Balgreen Masjid and Chair of Edinburgh Turkish Community
Zahid Akhtar, Documenting Oppression Against Muslims
Rafiq ibn Jubair, IlmFeed
Fadel Soliman, Bridges Foundation
Roshan Muhammed Salih, 5Pillars News
Anas Altikriti, The Cordoba Foundation, UK
Salman Butt, Islam21c
Tasneem Najwa, Nakheel Women’s Group
Hasib Noor, Founder & Director of The Legacy Institute
Samira Sabir, Centrum de Middenweg
Oguzhan Yürekli, European Yozgat Federation
Dr Mohammed Rafiq Habib, Muslim Council of Scotland
Abdul Wahid, Hizb ut Tahrir  Britain
Shabbir Hassan, Faith Space UK
Bilal Ismail, Alkauthar Institute
Abdelmonim Elhakim, British Islamic Medical Association
Abdur Rashid,UK Islamic Mission
Shaykh Bilal Brown, Marifah Institute
Abid Khan, Cheadle Mosque
Abdullah Patel, Masjid e Umar (Gloucester)
Mohammed Farook Kazi, Al-Ansaar Welfare & Education
Muhammad Uddin, Newham Muslim Forum
Imam Sheikh Mohammad Ismail, United Mosque Council of South Yorkshire  and Jamiat Ulama UK
Muhammad Mulla, Masjid-e-Umer (London)
Bakhtiar Ahmad, Masjid Salaam
Dr Louay Al-Alousi, Masjid-us-Sunnah
Omar Hajaj, West London Islamic Cultural Centre
Usman Qureshi, Norbury Muslim Centre
Nayeem Haque, Muslim Youth Network
Nicolas Blancho, Islamic Central Council of Switzerland
Muhammad Jalal, The Thinking Muslim Podcast
Firdosa Akhter, Aligarh Muslim University
Amanj Aziz, Nyans Muslim (Sweden)
Muhammad Delair, Madinatul Uloom
Rahma Bavelaar, Meld Islamofobie/Report Islamophobia (Netherlands)
Mohammed Lockhat, The Peace Centre
Dr. Aysha Wazwa, Gems of Light
Yusuf Ríos, Islamic Learning Foundation (Chicago USA)
Fahmi Adzha, International Islamic Federation Of Student Organizations (Turkey)
Tahir Alam, Muslim Parents Association
Dr. Maria Saleemi, Lahore College for Women University (Pakistan)
Ismail Kamdar, Islamic Self Help
Bilal Ismail, Imam Development Program
Yacoob Hafejee, Madrasah Taleemul Islam
Syed N Hoque, As-Subah Academy
Muhammad Mustaqeem Shah, Al Istiqāmah
Abul Barakat Monawar Hasan, Centre for Islamic Guidance UK
Zainulabedin Amir, Woodfarm Education Centre
Hashim Gora, Al Hashim academy
Abdallah Mohamed Elsaeidy, Hamad Medical Corporation Doha (Qatar)
Article Courtesy: 5pillarsuk.com

SKOKIE, IL — Food is seen as a basic human right, yet the coronavirus pandemic has caused an unprecedented spike in hunger, affecting families right here in Skokie as well as others living in the far corners of the world.

In 2019, almost 690 million people around the world went hungry, an increase of 10 million people from 2018, according to the United Nations’ global State of Food Security and Nutrition report. Of the 2019 total, 35 million were in the United States.
The coronavirus pandemic has only exacerbated hunger.
The level of hunger in U.S. households almost tripled between 2019 and August of this year, according to an analysis of data from the Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
While it’s too soon to assess the full impact of coronavirus lockdowns and other containment measures, the United Nations report estimates that at minimum, another 83 million people — and possibly as many as 132 million — may go hungry in 2020.
To spur collective action among its 150 member countries and draw attention to the sheer number of people suffering from chronic hunger, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations created World Food Day. First celebrated in 1979, the day is observed annually on Oct. 16.
In honor of World Food Day, here are some key things to know about the day, food insecurity in and around Skokie, and how you can help.

1) The coronavirus is profoundly affecting hunger in Cook County.

In Cook County, about 10.1 percent of residents were considered food insecure in 2018, according to data compiled by Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization. Due to the pandemic, that number is expected to climb to 15 percent by the end of 2020.
In Skokie, before COVID-19, there were nearly 11,500 residents at risk of food insecurity, nearly one in five residents, according to the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
In the first eight months of 2020, the number of people served every month by food pantry-style programs in Skokie decreased by more than 2,900 — falling from from more than 6,400 in January of 2020 to under 3,600 in August, according to data collected by the depository, which noted lower numbers do not indicate a decreased need.
From March 17 to May 27, Niles Township operated a supplemental food pantry at a vacant warehouse in Morton Grove.
RELATED: Niles Township Serves Over 6,400 People, Distributes Groceries
The township pantry at 8341 Lockwood Avenue, Skokie, is currently open from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on weekdays, and also from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, according to its website.
Other nearby food pantries include:

• Congregation K.I.N.S. of West Rogers Park, 2800 West North Shore Ave., Chicago
• Evanston Vineyard and Food Pantry, 2495 Howard St., Evanston
• Hillside Pantry at 2727 Crawford Ave., Evanston
• ICNA Relief Rogers Park Resource Center and Food Pantry, 2809 W. Devon Ave, Chicago
• Mihut Romanian Charitable Mission, 7300 Natchez Ave., Niles
• The Salvation Army Evanston Food Pantry at 1403 Sherman Ave., Evanston

2) World Food Day adopts a different theme each year to highlight where work needs to be done.

Each year, World Food Day selects a theme, which often focuses on agriculture and the important role it plays in the food system. In previous years, themes have focused on climate change, family farming and food prices, among others.
This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the entire global food system and laid bare its fragility. Border closures, trade restrictions and confinement measures have disrupted domestic and international food supply chains, according to the FAO website, ultimately reducing access to healthy and safe diets.
This year’s theme is “Grow, Nourish, Sustain. Together.” The theme is a “call for global solidarity” to help those affected recover from the coronavirus crisis. It also calls for using the pandemic as an opportunity to build a more resilient and robust food system.

3) If our food systems are not transformed, undernourishment and malnutrition will greatly increase by 2050.

Malnutrition in all its forms — undernutrition, micronutrient
deficiencies, as well as overweight and obesity — takes an estimated $3.5 trillion toll on the global economy each year.
Additionally, a combination of poor diets and sedentary lifestyles has led to soaring obesity rates, not only in developed countries but also low-income countries, where hunger and obesity often coexist. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, just over 42 percent of Americans are considered obese.
The FAO estimates undernourishment and malnutrition will only accelerate if income inequality, employment or access to basic services continue to deteriorate.

4) Events are planned each year to commemorate World Food Day.

A large number of annual events are organized in United Nations member countries to recognize World Food Day. Events range from marathons, hunger marches and exhibitions to cultural performances, contests and concerts.
This year, however, many events have moved online due the pandemic.
See a full map of World Food Day events here.
If no events are happening nearby, join the #WorldFoodDay conversation on social media by sharing any of the free material available on the World Food Day website. You can also express appreciation to #FoodHeroes online — those who, throughout the crisis, have made sure that food makes its way to local tables.

5) There are several ways you can help fight hunger.

Here are some tips and suggestions on how you can fight hunger and help support World Food Day’s mission, according to the event website:

• Choose a healthy, diverse diet: A healthy diet contributes to a healthy life. When we choose to eat diverse foods, we encourage a variety of foods to be produced. This is not only healthier for our bodies but also healthier for soils and our environment.
• Choose local: Whenever you can, support small farmers in your community by buying locally grown, fresh food.
• Choose seasonal: Buying in-season produce actually reduces your carbon footprint. Out-of-season food has to be imported and travel a long way before it arrives at your local market.
• Grow food at home: If you have a green space at home, access to a garden, or a balcony with space for plant pots, you can learn how to grow your own fruits, vegetables and herbs.
• Respect food: To reduce food loss and waste, learning how to store uneaten food properly for use as another day’s meal.
• Support food-related businesses and retailers: Doing this can make healthy food options more enticing, available and accessible. It also helps provide employment opportunities.
• Fight local hunger by volunteering: Look for opportunities at your local food pantry or community kitchen.
• Donate to your local food pantry: Most food banks keep a list of items that clients regularly need, and others accept personal care and household items, which aren’t covered by food assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — SNAP.

Article Courtesy: patch.com

July 23, 2020 – Jumauah Khutbah by Shaykh Abdool Rahman Khan

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
The First Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah
الْحَجُّ أَشْهُرٌ مَّعْلُومَاتٌ فَمَن فَرَضَ فِيهِنَّ الْحَجَّ فَلاَ رَفَثَ وَلاَ فُسُوقَ وَلاَ جِدَالَ فِي الْحَجِّ وَمَا تَفْعَلُواْ مِنْ خَيْرٍ يَعْلَمْهُ اللّهُ وَتَزَوَّدُواْ فَإِنَّ خَيْرَ الزَّادِ التَّقْوَى وَاتَّقُونِ يَا أُوْلِي الأَلْبَابِ 
The Hajj is (in) the well-known months. So whosoever intends to perform Hajj then he should not have spousal relations (with his wife), nor commit sin, nor dispute unjustly during the Hajj. And whatever good you do, (be sure) Allah knows it. And take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best provision is At-Taqwa (piety, righteousness, etc.). So fear Me, O men of understanding! 
Introduction

• Allah SWT chooses out of the months: The Blessed Month of Ramadhan to give extra reward to his servants.
• By the same token, He chooses the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah to be the best days of the year.
• Rasoolullah SAS said:

 ((مَا مِنْ أَيَّامٍ الْعَمَلُ الصَّالِحُ فِيهِنَّ أَحَبُّ إِلَى اللَّهِ مِنْ هَذِهِ الْأَيَّامِ الْعَشْرِ)) .
 “There are no days in which righteous deeds done in them are more beloved to Allah than these days, i.e. the ten days (of Zul-Hijjah).”

• These periods are known as موسم العبادة season of worship. Life is short to work for Jannah and these moments help to accelerate our journey towards it.
  • It gives us the opportunity to gain much blessings and rewards from Allah SWT
  • And to correct our faults and make up for any shortcomings.
  • In this “MAUSIM”- season of good we should be busy in our homes and feel the blessings of these days
• Every one of these special occasions involves some acts of worship through which
  • the servants may draw closer to Allah SWT and
  • To His Pleasure and to Jannatul Firdous
• So happy is the Believer who takes full opportunity of these precious moments and may Allah SWT make us amongst them!

What are the ten days of Dhul Hijjah ?

• These ten day begin with the first of Zhil Hijjah and end on the tenth which is The Day of Eidul Adha and we are now in these ten days of Zhil Hijjah
• It is also be the time when pilgrims would normally make the momentous journey to Makkah to perform Hajj.
• This year millions will be deprived this opportunity due to the pandemic and it would be a sad sight to see the emptiness at the Ka’bah , between Safa and Marwa, at Mina, Arafah and Muzdalifah
• But let us cheer up! Allah SWT The Merciful has given this Ummah a lot to do to benefit from these ten days even if going for Hajj is not possible.
• It is narrated from some of the Salaf As-Saleh (Pious Predecessors) that when the first ten days arrived they used to take advantage and worship in them as much as they could to the point that they could not do any more.
• Can we make one day like that, just to spend an entire day in the Ibaadah and Zhikr of Allah SWT.

Why are these days so special?
Ibn Hajar RA said: The apparent reason they are so special is because the major acts of worship of Allah occur in them which does not happen in any other days (meaning Salah (prayer), Charity, Fasting, and Hajj).
What do I do in these ten days?
1- Dhikr praising Allah SWT
عَنْ ابْنِ عُمَرَ عَنْ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ مَا مِنْ أَيَّامٍ أَعْظَمُ عِنْدَ اللَّهِ وَلَا أَحَبُّ إِلَيْهِ الْعَمَلُ فِيهِنَّ مِنْ هَذِهِ الْأَيَّامِ الْعَشْرِ فَأَكْثِرُوا فِيهِنَّ مِنْ التَّهْلِيلِ وَالتَّكْبِيرِ وَالتَّحْمِيدِ. [ رواه الإمام أحمد والطبراني ].
There are no days greater and more loved by Allah SWT wherein good deeds are done than these ten days so increase in Tahlil, Takbeer and Tahmeed

1. a) Say tahlil– La ilaaha illalallah لا إله إلا الله
   b) Takbir-Allahu akbar الله أكبر
   c) Tahmid– Alhamdu lillah الحمد لله

“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, la ilaha ill-Allah ; Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar wa Lillahil-hamd”
(Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah; Allah is Most Great and to Allah be praise),”
Some of the Companions used to say this Zhikr from the beginning of Zhil Hijjah and intensify from the 9^th until the 13^th (before Maghrib)

1. d) Tasbeeh– Subhan Allah سبحان الله
2. e) Istighfar– “Astaghfirulllah”أستغفر الله and also seek forgiveness for the Ummah those alive and for those who passed away by saying.

اللهم اغفر للمؤمنين و المؤمنات و المسلمين و المسلمت الأحياء منهم و الأموا ت
So when someone asked: Did you make Du’a for me? The answer is yes!
f)Making Salaah and Salam on Rasoolullah SAS
اللهم صل على محمد…

1. g) General tasbeeh that we know of in the authentic Sunnah
   These should always be on our minds and tongues, but more importantly in these days.

Abu Hamzah Albaghdady said “It is impossible for you to claim you love Allah and not praise him continuously, and it’s impossible that you praise Allah continuously and not see the sweetness of that in this life; and its impossible you see the sweetness of praising Allah and then be preoccupied with other than him.”
2- Fast in these days what you can:
وعن بعض أزواج النبي صلى الله عليه و سلم قالت: كَانَ يَصُومُ يَوْمَ عَاشُورَاءَ ، وَتِسْعًا مِنْ ذِي الْحِجَّةِ ، وَثَلَاثَةَ أَيَّامٍ مِنْ الشَّهْرِ ”
Some of The Mothers of the believers, report that Rasoolullah SAS used to fast the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah, Ashura’ and three days of every month.
3- Give charity:
These are things we should all do throughout the year more so during these first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. 
4- Recitation of Qur’an :
This should be a daily habit more so during these days.
5- Making Continuous and Consistent Du’a:
Imam Ash-Shawkani (RA) said “To know your Du’a is accepted is to have your heart ready, cry and shed tears to Allah, being persistent, and after that feeling, a burden is taken off your shoulders.”
6- Prayer of the night time:
The Day of Arafah

• This day that revelation came…

الْيَوْمَ أَكْمَلْتُ لَكُمْ دِينَكُمْ وَأَتْمَمْتُ عَلَيْكُمْ نِعْمَتِي وَرَضِيتُ لَكُمُ الْإِسْلَامَ دِينًا
This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.

• It is day Allah SWT descends to the lowest heaven to honor The Pilgrims:It was reported from Ibn ‘Umar that the Prophet (SAS) said:

إنَّ اللهَ تعالى يُباهِي ملائِكتَهُ عشِيَّةَ عرَفةَ بأهلِ عرَفةَ ، يقولُ : انظُروا إلى عبادِي ، أتوْنِي شُعْثًا غُبْرًا

“Allaah expresses His pride to His Angels at the time of ‘Ishaa’ on the Day of ‘Arafah, about the people of ‘Arafah. He says, ‘Look at My slaves who have come unkempt and dusty.’” Narrated by Ahmad

• The day Sins are forgiven Aishah (RA) reports that Rasoolullah (SAS) said,

مَا مِنْ يَوْمٍ أَكْثَرَ مِنْ أَنْ يُعْتِقَ اللَّهُ فِيهِ عَبْدًا مِنْ النَّارِ مِنْ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ وَإِنَّهُ لَيَدْنُو ثُمَّ يُبَاهِي بِهِمْ الْمَلَائِكَةَ فَيَقُولُ مَا أَرَادَ هَؤُلَاءِ
“ There is no day in which Allah sets free more souls from the fire of hell than on the day of Arafah. And on that day Allah draws near to the earth and by way of exhibiting His Pride remarks to the angels, ‘What is the desire of these (servants of mine) ? ” (Muslim) 

• A day when Shaitaan is humiliated as he would be on the Day of Judgment more than any day of the year. Abu Ad-Darda reported that the Prophet (SAS) said,

مَا رُئِيَ الشَّيْطَانُ يَوْمًا هُوَ فِيهِ أَصْغَرُ وَلَا أَدْحَرُ وَلَا أَحْقَرُ وَلَا أَغْيَظُ مِنْهُ فِي يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ وَمَا ذَاكَ إِلَّا لِمَا رَأَى مِنْ تَنَزُّلِ الرَّحْمَةِ وَتَجَاوُزِ اللَّهِ عَنْ الذُّنُوبِ الْعِظَامِ
 “There is no day on which the Shaitaan is seen to be more humiliated, more rejected, more depressed and more infuriated, than on the day of Arafah, and indeed all this is only because of beholding the abundance of descending mercy (on the day) and Allah’s forgiveness of the great sins of the servants.”

• Fasting particularly on the Day of Arafah: On this day, Muslims all over the world who do not witness the annualHajjshould spend the day in fasting and doing Zhikr ,

عَنْ أَبِي قَتَادَةَ أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ صِيَامُ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ إِنِّي أَحْتَسِبُ عَلَى اللَّهِ أَنْ يُكَفِّرَ السَّنَةَ الَّتِي قَبْلَهُ وَالسَّنَةَ الَّتِي بَعْدَهُ
I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of Arafah may atone for the sins of the preceding and the coming years

• The Best Zhikr to say on The Day of Arafah

عَنْ عَمْرِو بْنِ شُعَيْبٍ عَنْ أَبِيهِ عَنْ جَدِّهِ أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ خَيْرُ الدُّعَاءِ دُعَاءُ يَوْمِ عَرَفَةَ وَخَيْرُ مَا قُلْتُ أَنَا وَالنَّبِيُّونَ مِنْ قَبْلِي: لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
“The best Du’a is the Du’a of the day of Arafah. And the best Zhikr that I, and the Prophets before me, have uttered is this:
There is no God but Allah alone. He hath no partner. His is the kingdom and unto Him belongs all praise. He gives life and death. And He has power over all things.

Sacrifice on The Day of Eid

Aisha (RA) reports that Rasoolullah SAS said,
مَا عَمِلَ آدَمِيٌّ مِنْ عَمَلٍ يَوْمَ النَّحْرِ أَحَبَّ إِلَى اللَّهِ مِنْ إِهْرَاقِ الدَّمِ إِنَّهَا لَتَأْتِي يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ بِقُرُونِهَا وَأَشْعَارِهَا وَأَظْلَافِهَا وَأَنَّ الدَّمَ لَيَقَعُ مِنْ اللَّهِ بِمَكَانٍ قَبْلَ أَنْ يَقَعَ مِنْ الْأَرْضِ فَطِيبُوا بِهَا نَفْسًا
 “The son of Adam does not perform any actions on the day of sacrifice which is more pleasing to Allah than the shedding of blood. He will come on the day of resurrection with its hair, horns and hooves, and the blood certainly will fall in a place near Allah before it falls on the ground. So, make yourselves purified there with.  (Tirmizi, Ibn Majah)

• The inclusion of poor in our festivity must be done without which we cannot complete our service to Allah SWT.
• It is recommended that at least 1/3 of the meat should be given to the poor and needy. Allah SWT says:

فَكُلُوا مِنْهَا وَأَطْعِمُوا الْبَائِسَ الْفَقِيرَ
Then eat thereof and feed therewith the poor who have a very hard time.
Indeed these are very hard times and so the poor should not be left out.
Finally these are the toughest times we are witnessing and while the doors of the Masaajid might be closed, while The Sacred House and Mina , Arafah and Muzdalifah might be closed and empty, the Door of Allah SWT is always open and full of His Mercy.  We must pray sincerely to Allah SWT for removing this pandemic from all of humanity and help us to get closer to Him.
 

Shaykh Abdool Rahman Khan is a graduate of the Islamic University in Madinah Munawwarah, in the faculty of Shari’ah (Islamic Jurisprudence) specializing in Islamic Inheritance. He was the Principal of the Guyana Islamic Institute and also of Al-Rahmah School, Baltimore, MD. He also served as the resident scholar and Imam at Masjid Tawheed in Oakbrook Terrace, IL. As the Resident Scholar and Khateeb at Islamic Foundation, Villa Park, Chicago, IL, he was outspoken and actively involved in the field of religious dialogue and social issues.
He is currently the chairman of the Shari’ah Council of ICNA and a member of the Fiqh Council of North America. He also is the Director of Programs in the Tarbiyah Department of ICNA.

by Asma Jarad, Daily Herald
An award of $25,000 was given by the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund in recognition of ICNA Relief’s outstanding impact and tireless efforts to meet the needs of those impacted by COVID-19 through wage loss, school closures or other extreme circumstances.

With this award, funders of the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund recognize ICNA Relief’s key role in addressing the most critical needs for the residents of the Chicago region. The fund acknowledges ICNA Relief for advancing its core mission in the face of the current challenges and its commitment to strengthening the resiliency of our residents.
“We cannot do all that we do without God’s blessings, our committed staff, our many volunteers, and our generous donors,” said Dr. Saima Azfar, Midwest Regional Director of ICNA Relief. “If you’ve contributed to ICNA Relief, you ensured we could reach those hurt by COVID-19. The impact this award will make is your continuing legacy.”
Between March and May 10, ICNA Relief Chicago distributed more than 17,200 pounds of food valued at more than $137,000, serving more than 14,200 people. It has provided financial assistance worth $20,350. It serves families in need of all backgrounds and faiths.
The organization is currently soliciting $50 per child for gifts for Muslim kids in need who will celebrate Eid on May 24, the holiday that marks the end of Ramadan. Donations are accepted online at www.icnarelief.org and via check.
In collaboration with the City of Chicago, the Chicago Community Trust and United Way of Metro Chicago launched the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund to gather the funds raised by Chicago’s philanthropies, corporations, and individuals to be disbursed to nonprofit organizations across the region.
ICNA Relief (www.icnarelief.org) is a nonprofit based on Islamic principles with offices nationwide. It serves the needy of all backgrounds with transitional homes, food pantries, refugee services, and more. In Chicago, its head office is at 1793 Bloomingdale Rd, Suite 4, Glendale Heights, IL 60139. A satellite office and food pantry are at 2809 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659 in West Rogers Park.
Article Courtesy: Daily Herald

By Asma, Neighbor, Apr 7, 2020
 
ICNA Relief Chicago is distributing food boxes to those who have lost their jobs, homebound elderly, widows, and other low-income neighbors.

As we enter the fourth week of this new reality, many neighbors are worried about where, when, and how to provide the next meal for their families.
Distribution of food boxes was organized on Saturday, April 11 from ICNA Relief Rogers Park food pantry (2809 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659) as volunteers lined up to deliver food boxes to local families in need. ICNA Relief also encouraged all to join the national efforts to share the responsibility of assisting vulnerable neighbors.
ICNA Relief is a subsidiary of the Islamic Circle of North America, operating across the Nation with programs such as homeless women’s transitional homes, food pantries, back to school giveaways, Muslim family services, women’s hygiene kits, winter clothing drives, disaster relief, free health screenings, and more.
ICNA Relief, in collaboration with other organizations, announces the opening of a FREE tele-health services helpline to advise patients on non-urgent questions or concerns without having to visit medical clinics or a doctor’s office during this COVID-19 health crisis.

From small business fundraisers to window sign drives and grocery giveaways, here’s how West Ridge neighbors are helping during the outbreak.
By Joe Ward, Rogers Park, Edgewater, Uptown Reporter
 
WEST RIDGE — With West Ridge having one of the largest coronavirus clusters in the state, residents and local groups are making sure their neighbors are equipped to handle the outbreak.

Neighbors of the Far North Side community were shocked to learn last week that West Ridge’s 60645 ZIP code had the largest number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the state. The ZIP code has 339 confirmed COVID-19 cases as of Tuesday. The 60659 ZIP code, which makes up the southern end of West Ridge and neighboring North Park, has 185 confirmed cases.
Since then, Auburn Gresham’s 60620 now has the most cases of any ZIP in the state, with 339.
West Ridge’s cluster is of particular danger to the diverse neighborhoods, with its groups of religious minorities, immigrants and refugees. The Jewish Orthodox community, for one, is being impacted by the outbreak.
But neighbors are rallying to those groups, making sure they have the information and resources needed to withstand the outbreak.
Essam Choudhary said local nonprofits serving South Asian and other communities have now turned their focus from the suburbs to West Ridge. The idea is to help groups who may have a language barrier or inadequate access to resources and information during this time.
“We have found that a large population of Rohingya refugees now live in the Devon area … and are unfortunately unaware of how to protect themselves,” Choudhary said. “Along with other new immigrants, low income families and the Orthodox Jewish communities, all are under prepared and help hasn’t been easily available that’s suitable for them, until now.”
The Illinois Muslim Civic Coalition, the American Pakistan Foundation, Islamic Circle of North America and others are teaming to provide wellness check calls, COVID-19 information, prevention tips and food deliveries, Choudhary said.
ICNA Relief, the charitable arm of the Islamic Circle of North America group, has donated $65,000 in groceries and $4,000 in family aid to area residents. A group of ICNA volunteers gathered for a large food distribution effort Saturday in West Ridge.
“With the COVID-19 crisis, the need has skyrocketed,” said Dr. Saima Azfar, ICNA Relief’s Midwest regional director. “So many new families asking for assistance aren’t typically our clients but have lost their job or been furloughed and still have bills to pay.”
ICNA has also set up a free healthcare hotline, where residents can get advice on non-urgent medical problems so families can avoid doctor’s offices and clinics during the outbreak. The number for the hotline is 630-444-7411.
With West Ridge dealing with the outbreak, the Devon Avenue commercial stretch known as Little India has been severely impacted by mandated business closures and practices like social distancing. To help, Chicago Desi Youth Rising is raising funds for Devon Avenue shop owners and workers who are going through a rough time.
Local business leaders and Ald. Debra Silverstein (50th) have partnered to buy meals from Devon Avenue restaurants and donate them to area first responders.
Another fundraising effort is seeking to help West Ridge businesses while also spreading potentially life saving information to the neighborhood’s diverse residents.
Local CPS teacher Halle Quezada has teamed with Life Quilt Foundation to make window signs that say “Stay Home, Save Lives” in numerous languages. A donation of any size to the group’s small business support fund comes with a free window sign.
“This fundraiser is about bringing our community together in a time when we must stay apart,” Quezada said on Facebook. “In the end, we hope we will all be stronger for it.”
Article Courtesy: Block Club Chicago