Archive for July 2013

Ghusl before Fasting (Hadith No. 1643)

bath
Published on July 29, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 148:
Narrated 'Aisha and Um Salama (radiallaahu `anhumaa):
At times Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) used to get up in the morning in the state of Janaba after having sexual relations with his wives. He would then take a bath and fast.
The fast of one who has intercourse with his wife at night and wakes up in the morning in a state of junub is still valid, as is the fast of one who becomes junub in his sleep, whether at night or during the day. There is nothing wrong with delaying ghusl until just before dawn. Rather fasting is invalidated by having intercourse during the day in Ramadaan, from just before dawn until after sunset. 
Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 10/327
Usually what happens is, being in the state of janaabah, people tend to delay ghusl (due to embarrassment or other reasons) and miss Fajr. This is not acceptable. One must make sure to pray on time as well.

Fasting & Intention (Hadith No. 1642)

bukhari
Published on July 27, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Is it necessary to make an intention before fasting? If yes, when to make that intention?
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 147:
Narrated Salama bin Al-Akwa (radiallaahu `anhu):
Once the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) ordered a person on 'Ashura' (the tenth of Muharram) to announce, "Whoever has eaten, should not eat any more, but fast, and who has not eaten should not eat, but complete his fast (till the end of the day).

The Ruling

It was narrated by Ibn ‘Umar from Hafsah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
Whoever does not have the intention of fasting before Fajr, there is no fast for him.
Narrated by Imam Ahmad, the authors of al-Sunan, Ibn Khuzaymah and Ibn Hibbaan; they classed it as saheeh and marfoo’.

Obligatory or Voluntary?

Summary: For obligatory fasts, intention has to be made before Fajr that day. But for voluntary fasts, intention can be made later on during the day if one hasn't eaten/drunk/had intercourse after Fajr that day. Read below for details.
It is essential to make the intention to fast the month of Ramadan at night, before Fajr. It is not sufficient to start fasting it that day without the intention. Whoever finds out at the time of Duha that today it is Ramadan and makes the intention of fasting has to refrain from eating until sunset, and he also has to make up that day. This is with regard to obligatory fasts. With regard to naafil (voluntary) fasts it is permissible to make the intention to fast on the day, if you have not eaten or drunk or had intercourse after Fajr, because it was proven in the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) entered upon her one day at duha time and said, “Do you have anything (any food)?” She said, “No.” He said, “Then I am fasting.” Narrated by Muslim in his Saheeh. 

Suhoor: The Blessed Meal (Ahadith 1640 - 1641)

blessed
Published on July 26, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 145:
Narrated 'Abdullah (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) fasted for days continuously; the people also did the same but it was difficult for them. So, the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) forbade them (to fast continuously for more than one day). They slid, "But you fast without break (no food was taken in the evening or in the morning)." The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) replied, "I am not like you, for I am provided with food and drink (by Allah)."
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast continually, and Allaah gave him the strength to do that, but he forbade his ummah to do that out of compassion and mercy towards them.
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen said in al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 6/443: 
It appears that the ruling with regard to continual fasting is that it is haraam. 
And Allaah knows best.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 146:
Narrated Anas bin Malik (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "Take Suhur as there is a blessing in it."
Having the pre-dawn meal or suhoor is highly recommended. There's blessing in FOOD. How can you not appreciate that? :P
Having said that, you must know that having suhoor is not a 'condition' for the fast to be valid. If you missed it due to sleep or some other reason, you may continue your fast without hesitation.

Suhoor and Adhaan (Ahadith 1637 - 1639)

adhaan. azan
Published on July 24, 2013 By
Bismillah.
When should you take your suhoor meal? Till dawn or the adhaan?
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 142:
Narrated 'Aisha (radiallaahu `anhaa):
Bilal (radiallaahu `anhu) used to pronounce the Adhan at night, so Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam)? said, "Carry on taking your meals (eat and drink) till Ibn Um Maktum [Bilal] pronounces the Adhan, for he does not pronounce it till it is dawn.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 143:
Narrated Sahl bin Sad (radiallaahu `anhu):
I used to take my Suhur meals with my family and then hurry up for presenting myself for the (Fajr) prayer with Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam).
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 144:
Narrated Anas (radiallaahu `anhu):
Zaid bin Thabit (radiallaahu `anhu) said, "We took the Suhur with the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam). Then he stood for the prayer." I asked, "What was the interval between the Suhur and the Adhan?" He replied, "The interval was sufficient to recite fifty verses of the Quran."
The ruling is that you "eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night)." [al-Baqarah 2:187]
Translation: eat and drink till dawn starts. Whether the adhaan starts before it or after is irrelevant; you just have to look for the dawn.
Also, it's better to delay the suhoor meal till dawn. Imam Ahmad recorded Abu Dharr saying that Allah's Messenger said:
«لَا تَزَالُ أُمَّتِي بِخَيْرٍ مَا عَجَّلُوا الْإِفْطَارَ وَأَخَّرُوا السُّحُور»My Ummah will always retain goodness as long as they hasten in breaking the fast and delay the Suhur.


Taken from:  http://ilookilisten.wordpress.com/2013/07/24/suhoor-and-adhaan-ahadith-1637-1639/

The Black and White Threads (Ahadith 1634 - 1636)

ayah
Published on July 23, 2013 By
Bismillah.

أُحِلَّ لَكُمْ لَيْلَةَ الصِّيَامِ الرَّفَثُ إِلَىٰ نِسَائِكُمْ ۚ هُنَّ لِبَاسٌ لَّكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ لِبَاسٌ لَّهُنَّ ۗ عَلِمَ اللَّهُ أَنَّكُمْ كُنتُمْ تَخْتَانُونَ أَنفُسَكُمْ فَتَابَ عَلَيْكُمْ وَعَفَا عَنكُمْ ۖ فَالْآنَ بَاشِرُوهُنَّ وَابْتَغُوا مَا كَتَبَ اللَّهُ لَكُمْ ۚ وَكُلُوا وَاشْرَبُوا حَتَّىٰ يَتَبَيَّنَ لَكُمُ الْخَيْطُ الْأَبْيَضُ مِنَ الْخَيْطِ الْأَسْوَدِ مِنَ الْفَجْرِ ۖ ثُمَّ أَتِمُّوا الصِّيَامَ إِلَى اللَّيْلِ ۚ وَلَا تُبَاشِرُوهُنَّ وَأَنتُمْ عَاكِفُونَ فِي الْمَسَاجِدِ ۗ تِلْكَ حُدُودُ اللَّهِ فَلَا تَقْرَبُوهَا ۗ كَذَٰلِكَ يُبَيِّنُ اللَّهُ آيَاتِهِ لِلنَّاسِ لَعَلَّهُمْ يَتَّقُونَ

"It has been made permissible for you the night preceding fasting to go to your wives [for sexual relations]. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them. Allah knows that you used to deceive yourselves, so He accepted your repentance and forgave you. So now, have relations with them and seek that which Allah has decreed for you. And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]. Then complete the fast until the sunset. And do not have relations with them as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques. These are the limits [set by] Allah , so do not approach them. Thus does Allah make clear His ordinances to the people that they may become righteous." [2: 187]

Ibn Kathir says in his tafsir:
These Ayat contain a relief from Allah for the Muslims by ending the practice that was observed in the early years of Islam. At that time, Muslims were allowed to eat, drink and have sexual intercourse only until the `Isha' (Night) prayer, unless one sleeps before the `Isha' prayer. Those who slept before `Isha' or offered the `Isha' prayer, were not allowed to drink, eat or sexual intercourse sex until the next night. The Muslims found that to be difficult for them.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 139:
Narrated Al-Bara:
It was the custom among the companions of Muhammad (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) that if any of them was fasting and the food was presented (for breaking his fast), but he slept before eating, he would not eat that night and the following day till sunset.
Qais bin Sirma-al-Ansari (radiallaahu `anhu) was fasting and came to his wife at the time of Iftar (breaking one's fast) and asked her whether she had anything to eat. She replied, "No, but I would go and bring some for you." He used to do hard work during the day, so he was overwhelmed by sleep and slept. When his wife came and saw him, she said, "Disappointment for you." When it was midday on the following day, he fainted and the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) was informed about the whole matter and the following verses were revealed: "You are permitted To go to your wives (for sexual relation) At the night of fasting." So, they were overjoyed by it. And then Allah also revealed: "And eat and drink Until the white thread Of dawn appears to you Distinct from the black thread (of the night)." (2.187)
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 140:
Narrated 'Adi bin Hatim (radiallaahu `anhu):
When the above verses were revealed: 'Until the white thread appears to you, distinct from the black thread,' I took two (hair) strings, one black and the other white, and kept them under my pillow and went on looking at them throughout the night but could not make anything out of it. So, the next morning I went to Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) and told him the whole story. He explained to me, "That verse means the darkness of the night and the whiteness of the dawn."
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 141:
Narrated Sahl bin Saud (radiallaahu `anhu):
When the following verses were revealed: 'Eat and drink until the white thread appears to you, distinct from the black thread' and of dawn was not revealed, some people who intended to fast, tied black and white threads to their legs and went on eating till they differentiated between the two. Allah then revealed the words, 'of dawn', and it became clear that meant night and day.
I've always found this incident regarding `Adi bin Hatim (radiallaahu `anhu) very cute! It goes to say how some of us are quite literal in understanding things. Not that we're to be blamed. :P
On the other hand, there's an important lesson in it for us: the companions weren't always correct in their interpretation of Quranic ayaat or Ahadith. We'll always find differences of opinions among companions, and when we do, we should go for the most correct and favored opinion. And just because a companion reached an incorrect conclusion doesn't mean he was less intelligent or had weak imaan, na`oodhu billah! It only proves that they were human beings like us, but far better than us. If we were there, we would've made fun of `Adi (radiallaahu `anhu). But we don't find any reports of companions or the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) laughing at him or making him feel bad about what he did. Such were the chosen people. <3

Fasting in Sha`baan - A Summary (Hadith No. 1633)

bukhari
Published on July 22, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 138:
Narrated Abu Huraira (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "None of you should fast a day or two before the month of Ramadan unless he has the habit of fasting (Nawafil) (and if his fasting coincides with that day) then he can fast that day."

Ruling on Fasting in Sha`baan

The basic ruling regarding fasting in Sha`baan is an this Hadith:
“When Sha’baan is halfway through, do not fast.”
Narrated by Abu Dawood (3237); Ibn Hibaan (1651); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani inSaheeh al-Tirmidhi.
There's no restriction on fasting in the first half of Sha`baan. The ruling in the above hadith is only concerning the second half.

Why the Prohibition?

The reason for this prohibition is that continually fasting may make a person too weak to fast in Ramadaan. 
If it is said that if he fasts from the beginning of the month he will become even weaker, the response is that whoever fasts from the beginning of Sha’baan will have gotten used to fasting so it will be less difficult for him to fast. 
Al-Qaari said: The prohibition here means that it is disliked, as a mercy to this ummah lest they become too weak to fulfil their duty of fasting during Ramadaan in an energetic fashion. But those who fast all of Sha’baan will become used to fasting so it will not be difficult for them.

Exceptions to the Rule

If any of the following apply to you, you MAY fast in the second half of Sha`baan:
  1. One who has a habit of fasting, such as a man who habitually fasts on Mondays and Thursdays, which he may do even after halfway through Sha’baan. The evidence for that is the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), “Do not anticipate Ramadaan by fasting one or two days before it, except a man who fasts regularly, who should observe his usual fast.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1914; Muslim, 1082.
  2. A person who started fasting before halfway through Sha’baan, and connects what comes after the halfway point to what came before. This is not included in the prohibition either. The evidence for that is the words of ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) who said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to fast all of Sha’baan and fast all of Sha’baan except a little.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1970; Muslim, 1165. This version narrated by Muslim.
    Al-Nawawi said: “He used to fast all of Sha’baan and fast all of Sha’baan except a little.” The second phrase is an explanation of the first, pointing out that by “all” what is meant is “most”.
    This hadeeth indicates that it is permissible to fast after halfway through Sha’baan, but only for one who joins that to what came before the halfway point. 
  3. An exception from this prohibition is also made for one who is making up missed Ramadaan fasts. 
[IslamQA]

Islamic Calendar & The Months of `Eid (Ahadith 1625 - 1632)

hadith no 1625
Published on July 21, 2013 By
Bismillah.

The Islamic Calendar - Astronomy

In the Islamic calendar, each month has either 29 or 30 days, but usually in no discernible order. Traditionally, the first day of each month is the day (beginning at sunset) of the first sighting of the hilal (crescent moon) shortly after sunset. If the hilal is not observed immediately after the 29th day of a month (either because clouds block its view or because the western sky is still too bright when the moon sets), then the day that begins at that sunset is the 30th. Such a sighting has to be made by one or more trustworthy men testifying before a committee of Muslim leaders. [Wikipedia]
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 130:
Narrated Abdullah bin Umar (radiallaahu `anhu):
Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) mentioned Ramadan and said, "Do not fast unless you see the crescent (of Ramadan), and do not give up fasting till you see the crescent (of Shawwal), but if the sky is overcast (if you cannot see it), then act on estimation (i.e. count Sha'ban as 30 days)."
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 131:
Narrated Abdullah bin Umar (radiallaahu `anhu):
Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "The month (can be) 29 nights (i.e. days), and do not fast till you see the moon, and if the sky is overcast, then complete Sha'ban as thirty days."
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 132:
Narrated Ibn 'Umar (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "The month is like this and this," (at the same time he showed the fingers of both his hands thrice) and left out one thumb on the third time.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 133:
Narrated Abu Huraira (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) or Abu-l-Qasim said, "Start fasting on seeing the crescent (of Ramadan), and give up fasting on seeing the crescent (of Shawwal), and if the sky is overcast (and you cannot see it), complete thirty days of Sha'ban."
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 134:
Narrated Um Salama (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) vowed to keep aloof from his wives for a period of one month, and after the completion of 29 days he went either in the morning or in the afternoon to his wives. Someone said to him "You vowed that you would not go to your wives for one month." He replied, "The month is of 29 days."
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 135:
Narrated Anas (radiallaahu `anhu):
Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) vowed to keep aloof from his wives for one month, and he had dislocation of his leg. So, he stayed in a Mashruba for 29 nights and then came down. Some people said, "O Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam)! You vowed to stay aloof for one month," He replied, "The month is of 29 days."
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 136:
Narrated Abu Bakra (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "The two months of 'Id i.e. Ramadan and Dhul-Hijja, do not decrease (in superiority)."
This has been interpreted in two ways by the scholars:
  1. the two months of Eid (Ramadan and Dhul Hijjah) do not decrease in number (in the same year). For example, if this year, Ramadan is 29 days, then Dhul Hijjah will definitely be 30. And if Dhul Hijjah is 29, then Ramadan will be 30. Both cannot be 29 simultaneously.
    This does not have to be the case each time. This is why the second opinion is preferred and more correct. Allah knows best.
  2. these two months do not decrease in superiority. Even if the number decreases to 29, the reward of the people who do good in these two months will not be decreased. :)
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 137:
Narrated Ibn 'Umar (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "We are an illiterate nation; we neither write, nor know accounts. The month is like this and this, i.e. sometimes of 29 days and sometimes of thirty days."

Get Married or Try Fasting (Hadith No. 1624)

bukhari
Published on July 19, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 129:
Narrated 'Alqama:
While I was walking with 'Abdullah (radiallaahu `anhu) he said, "We were in the company of the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) and he said, 'He who can afford to marry should marry, because it will help him refrain from looking at other women, and save his private parts from looking at other women, and save his private parts from committing illegal sexual relation; and he who cannot afford to marry is advised to fast, as fasting will diminish his sexual power."
Sexual desire is something that has been created in man and it cannot be got rid of. Getting rid of it is not something that is required of the Muslim; rather what is required of him is to refrain from using it in haraam ways, and to use it in the ways that Allaah has permitted.
Halaal way: get married. If you can't, fast. It's going to help you resist the desire inshaAllah.
How to resist sexual desires? Read about the 2-step solution to this problem here.
Is there any benefit in resisting/breaking this desire? Read an interesting approach on this subject here.

Ramadan: Such Excellence! (Hadith No. 1623)

allah
Published on July 18, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 128:
Narrated Abu Huraira (radiallaahu `anhu):
Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "Allah said, 'All the deeds of Adam's sons (people) are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.' Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. If one of you is fasting, he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarreling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, 'I am fasting.' By Him in Whose Hands my soul is' The unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting."
How many virtues of fasting/Ramadan have you come across up till now? There are 13 in this post and several others. Can you share some rare ones?

The Unacceptable Fast (Hadith No. 1622)

bukhari
Published on July 17, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 127:
Narrated Abu Huraira (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "Whoever does not give up forged speech and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink (i.e. Allah will not accept his fasting.)"
This tells us two things mainly:
  1. The person who's fasting MUST avoid major sins e.g. lying, and all sorts of evil actions.
    The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The five daily prayers, from one Jumu’ah to the next and from one Ramadaan to the next are expiation for (sins committed) in between, so long as you avoid major sins.” [Muslim]
    Repeat the last phrase: "..so long as you avoid major sins".
  2. Fasting is not just about leaving food and drink. There's much more to it. This exercise of avoiding halal food and drink in obedience to Allah's command is supposed to teach us how to leave the haram things (sins, for example) during and outside Ramadan in order to obey Allah (subhaanahu wata`aalaa). If you can fast, you can leave sins as well. It's not impossible. :)

Ramadan: Quran & Spending (Hadith No. 1621)

bukhari
Published on July 16, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 126:
Narrated Ibn 'Abbas (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) was the most generous amongst the people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadan when Gabriel (`alayhissalaam) visited him, and Gabriel (`alayhissalaam) used to meet him on every night of Ramadan till the end of the month. The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) used to recite the Holy Qur'an to Gabriel, and when Gabriel (`alayhissalaam) met him, he used to be more generous than a fast wind (which causes rain and welfare).
Lessons:
  1. The sunnah is to go through the whole Quran in Ramadan. It's the best time of the year. You can do it!
    Join online classes if there's no other means.
  2. Spend generously in the cause of Allah. Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) was more generous than 'fast wind' - meaning he would spend a lot and he would spend of whatever he had as soon as he got it.. no delays. And his spending was such that it would benefit others - the poor and the needy.
    Here's a nice and funny video I came across relevant to this subject. Do check it out. :)

Ramadan: Sin-Eraser (Hadith No. 1620)

bukhari
Published on July 15, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 125:
Narrated Abu Huraira (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "Whoever established prayers on the night of Qadr out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven; and whoever fasts in the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven."
We say sinning is easy, but atoning for our sins to have them forgiven isn't. While this statement can be debated upon, here's a simple method to erase all your sins: fast in Ramadan, and seek Laylat-ul-Qadr by establishing salah in the last few odd nights of Ramadan. If you do these two things with sincerity and expect reward ONLY from Allah, you have a promise from Allah that you'll be forgiven inshaAllah.
May Allah erase all our past sins this Ramadan.

Moon-sighting: The Basic Principle (Hadith No. 1619)

bukhari
Published on July 14, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 124:
Narrated Ibn Umar (radiallaahu `anhu):
I heard Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) saying, "When you see the crescent (of the month of Ramadan), start fasting, and when you see the crescent (of the month of Shawwal), stop fasting; and if the sky is overcast (and you can't see It) then regard the crescent (month) of Ramadan (as of 30 days)".
What counts with regard to confirming the beginning of the month of Ramadan is sighting of the new moon or the completion of 30 days of Sha’baan if the moon is not sighted.
Read up on the ruling here.

Ramadan - Paradise Open & Hell Closed (Ahadith 1617 - 1618)

bukhari
Published on July 13, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 122:
Narrated Abu Huraira (radiallaahu `anhu):
Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened."
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 123:
Narrated Abu Huraira (radiallaahu `anhu):
Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained."
Opening of the gates of Paradise means that the way to Paradise and its attainment is made easier through deeds like praying, fasting and reciting Quran etc. Similarly, closing of the gates of Hell means that the way to Hell is made tougher by making it easier to leave sins - chaining of the devils helps in both scenarios, since they're not around to whisper in our hearts and encourage us to commit bad deeds.
Alhamdulillah for Ramadan and its blessings. May Allah make us all come out of it sinless. Ameen.

Taken from: 

Ar-Rayyan (Ahadith 1615 - 1616)

bukhari
Published on July 12, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 120:
Narrated Sahl (radiallaahu `anhu):
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "There is a gate in Paradise called Ar-Raiyan, and those who observe fasts will enter through it on the Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it. It will be said, 'Where are those who used to observe fasts?' They will get up, and none except them will enter through it. After their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it."
Imagine being there. Imagine the angels at Ar-Rayyan (gate of Paradise) calling out YOUR name. Imagine feeling so special. <3
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 121:
Narrated Abu Huraira (radiallaahu `anhu):
Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, "Whoever gives two kinds (of things or property) in charity for Allah's Cause, will be called from the gates of Paradise and will be addressed, 'O slaves of Allah! Here is prosperity.' So, whoever was amongst the people who used to offer their prayers, will be called from the gate of the prayer; and whoever was amongst the people who used to participate in Jihad, will be called from the gate of Jihad; and whoever was amongst those who used to observe fasts, will be called from the gate of Ar-Raiyan; whoever was amongst those who used to give in charity, will be called from the gate of charity." Abu Bakr (radiallaahu `anhu) said, "Let my parents be sacrificed for you, O Allah's Apostle (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam)! No distress or need will befall him who will be called from those gates. Will there be any one who will be called from all these gates?" The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) replied, "Yes, and I hope you will be one of them."
A person can get his name in three lists easily, I suppose. If he prays, fasts and gives charity regularly, he'll be called out from three gates. Isn't that awesome? Imagine being there. Imagine thinking which gate to enter from.. <3
And who can compete with Abu Bakr (radiallaahu `anhu) in good deeds? May Allah make us more like him.

Ramadan

fasting
Published on July 11, 2013 By
“O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for people before you so that you may attain Taqwa” [al-Baqarah, 2:183]
Every year this blessed month of Ramadan comes and goes, but there are only few individuals who are the successful ones to follow the above mentioned ayah of the Holy Quran. I am not referring to the part of the ayah which commands us to fast regularly in the month of Ramadan, but I am referring to the word ‘taqwa’ used here.
By the grace of Allah we Muslims somehow manage to fast regularly in these prescribed days of Ramadan, but unfortunately we fail to fulfill the purpose of this gift given to us by the Supreme Being in the shape of this merciful and forgiving month.
The phrase “la-al-la” (second last word of this ayah) in Arabic means several things. It means ‘so that’ or ‘may be that’ signifying that the purpose of the 1st part of the ayah will be told after this word. As it says: ….fasting has been prescribed for you…’so that’ you may learn/attain taqwa. This ayah gives us a very clear view of the purpose of the month of Ramadan. “la-al-la” also means ‘hopefully’, in other words, ‘I have given you this hopefully u will get this’. Here Allah wants to tell you that whatever guidance he has given us, In this case the month of Ramadan, ‘hopefully’ you will benefit with it by gaining taqwa.
It makes us feel a bit more upset as it is not something that is guaranteed, but at the same time the very phrase “la-al-la” makes us feel hopeful and optimistic that it is more likely that we will attain taqwa.
We have heard from our very childhood that the purpose of Ramadan is to feel sympathy towards others, and to learn patience. To make it more clear these both the things are a part of a single entity,‘Taqwa’, and it is this that is the true purpose of this month.
We often find excuses throughout the year, that it is very hard to be like the great companions of Rasoolulllah (saw), shaytan is constantly trying to make us turn the wrong way. In this month you will not have that excuse. The devil has been locked in chains. You have entered the trainee program for a month. You have all your chances, to become great from ordinary.
This time we need to put ourselves into 1st gears, and strive to be amongst those fortunate who take all the blessings, mercy, forgiveness and most importantly taqwa, from this beautiful month of Ramadan.
Prophet saw said: “If Allah’s servants knew what Ramadan was, they would have wished it lasted for the whole year.”

Fasting is an Expiation (Hadith No. 1614)

bukhari
Published on July 10, 2013 By
Bismillah.
Volume 3, Book 31, Number 119:
Narrated Abu Wail from Hudhaifa (radiallaahu `anhu):
Umar (radiallaahu `anhu) asked the people, "Who remembers the narration of the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) about the affliction?" Hudhaifa (radiallaahu `anhu) said, "I heard the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) saying, 'The affliction of a person in his property, family and neighbors is expiated by his prayers, fasting, and giving in charity." 'Umar (radiallaahu `anhu) said, "I do not ask about that, but I ask about those afflictions which will spread like the waves of the sea." Hudhaifa (radiallaahu `anhu) replied, "There is a closed gate in front of those afflictions." 'Umar (radiallaahu `anhu) asked, "Will that gate be opened or broken?" He replied, "It will be broken." 'Umar (radiallaahu `anhu) said, "Then the gate will not be closed again till the Day of Resurrection." We said to Masruq, "Would you ask Hudhaifa (radiallaahu `anhu) whether 'Umar (radiallaahu `anhu) knew what that gate symbolized?" He asked him and he replied "He ('Umar (radiallaahu `anhu)) knew it as one knows that there will be night before tomorrow morning.
Talking about the first part of the Hadith, we know that one's wealth and family is a trial as Allah says:
إِنَّمَا أَمْوَالُكُمْ وَأَوْلَادُكُمْ فِتْنَةٌ
"Your wealth and your children are only a trial.." [At-Taghabun: 15]
We're tested by our wealth in the ways we earn it and spend it, and family tests us for the amount of time we spend with them and the way we spend it. Also, we're tested in our priorities - whether we put Allah before our loved ones or not..
Being human, we always falter. There are shortcomings no matter how hard we try. To make up for those, we can pray extra nawafil (voluntary prayers), keep nafil fasts and give more in charity as suggested by the Hadith above. In doing so, we'll be offering expiation for our sins and faults committed when it came to wealth and family. InshaAllah.

Some Important Issues related to Eid

Published on July 09, 2013 By
Important Issues related to Eid:

 Eid is an important religious festival and there are some important things which should be kept in mind while celebrating this festival.

One should not disobey Allah swt and His Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam on Eid:

 Many people disobey Allah and His Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam while celebrating Eid by wearing clothes which are prohibited in Islam and playing musical instruments which are prohibited in Islam .Following hadith make this point clear:

Narrated 'Abdullah bin Umar:
Umar bought a silk cloak from the market, took it to Allah's Apostle and said, "O Allah's Apostle! Take it and adorn yourself with it during the 'Id and when the delegations visit you." Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) replied, "This dress is for those who have no share (in the Hereafter)." After a long period Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) sent to Umar a cloak of silk brocade. Umar came to Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) with the cloak and said, "O Allah's Apostle! You said that this dress was for those who had no share (in the Hereafter); yet you have sent me this cloak." Allah's Apostle said to him, "Sell it and fulfill your needs by it."( Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 ,Hadith 69)

One cannot fast on Eid days:

 Eid is the celebration of the Muslims and no one should fast on the Eid day.This has been mentioned in the following hadiths:

1.Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Umar:
that he was asked about a man who had vowed that he would fast all the days of his life then the day of 'Id al Adha or 'Id-al-Fitr came. 'Abdullah bin 'Umar said: You have indeed a good example in Allah's Apostle. He did not fast on the day of 'Id al Adha or the day of 'Id-al-Fitr, and we do not intend fasting on these two days. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 8 ,Volume 78 , Hadith 696)

2. Narrated Abu 'Ubaid:
(the slave of Ibn Azhar) I witnessed the 'Id with 'Umar bin Al-Kattab who said, Allah's Apostle has forbidden people to fast on the day on which you break fasting (the fasts of Ramadan) and the day on which you eat the meat of your sacrifices (the first day of 'Id ul Fitr and 'Id ul-Adha). (Sahih Bukhari : Book 3 , Volume 31 , Hadith 211)

On another instance this hadith has been narrated in detail as follows:

Narrated Abu 'Ubaid:
the freed slave of Ibn Azhar that he witnessed the Day of 'Id-al-Adha with 'Umar bin Al-Khattab. 'Umar offered the 'Id prayer before the sermon and then delivered the sermon before the people, saying, "O people! Allah's Apostle has forbidden you to fast (on the first day of) each of these two 'Ida, for one of them is the Day of breaking your fast, and the other is the one, on which you eat the meat of your sacrifices." (Sahih Bukhari : Book 7 , Volume 68 , Hadith 478)
3. Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) forbade to observe fast on these two days. 'Id-ul-Adha and 'Id-ul-Fitr. (Muslim : Book 6 , Hadith 2534)

4. Yahya related to me from Malik from Ibn Shihab that Abu Ubayd, the mawla of Ibn Azhar said, "I was present at an id with Umar ibn al-Khattab. He prayed, and then after he had prayed he gave a khutba to the people and said, 'The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, forbade fasting on these two days - the day you break your fast (after Ramadan), and the day you eat from your sacrifice (after Hajj) .' "(Malik : Book 10 , Hadith 10.2.5)

5. Narrated Anas bin Malik
In the life-time of the Prophet, Abu Talha did not fast because of the Jihad, but after the Prophet died I never saw him without fasting except on 'Id-ul-Fitr and 'Id-ul-Adha. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 4 , Volume 52 , Hadith 81)

Same thing should be kept in mind when Rabi ul awwal comes and many people celebrate birthday of prophet salal laho aliehi wasalam as Eid.It is saying of Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam that he was born on Monday and he fasts on Mondays so the day on which prophet was born is the day of fasting and it is not the day of Eid.

One should eat dates or sweet thing before Eid:

 One should eat dates before going to Eid prayers. If dates are not available he should eat any sweet thing to follow the sunnah of Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam:

Narrated Anas bin Malik,:
Allah's Apostle never proceeded (for the prayer) on the Day of 'Id-ul-Fitr unless he had eaten some dates. Anas also narrated: The Prophet used to eat odd number of dates. Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 73)

One should pay sadqah of Fitar before Eid prayers:

 One should pay sadqah of fitar before eid prayers and this Sadqah of Fitar eliminates the sins of Ramadan if this is paid after Eid it is just like normal Sadaqah .This has been mentioned in the following hadiths:

1.Narrated Abdullah ibn Abbas:
The Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) prescribed the sadaqah (alms) relating to the breaking of the fast as a purification of the fasting from empty and obscene talk and as food for the poor. If anyone pays it before the prayer (of 'Id), it will be accepted as zakat. If anyone pays it after the prayer, that will be a sadaqah like other sadaqahs (alms). (Dawud : Book 9 ,Hadith 1605)

2.Narrated Ibn 'Umar:
The Prophet ordered the people to pay Zakat-ul-Fitr before going to the 'Id prayer.( Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 25 ,Hadith 585)

Amount of Sadqah of Fitar:

 The amount of Sadqah of Fitar has been mentioned in hadiths .It is equal to the four hand full of the grainwhich is  approximately equal to 2.7 kg of the crop or grain being used by a person.This has been mentioned in the follow hadiths

1.Narrated Ibn Umar:
Allah's Apostle enjoined the payment of one Sa' of dates or one Sa' of barley as Zakat-ul-Fitr on every Muslim slave or free, male or female, young or old, and he ordered that it be paid before the people went out to offer the 'Id prayers (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 25 ,Hadith 579)

2.Narrated Nafi':
Ibn 'Umar said, "The Prophet made incumbent on every male or female, free man or slave, the payment of one Sa' of dates or barley as Sadaqat-ul-Fitr (or said Sadaqa-Ramadan)." The people then substituted half Sa' of wheat for that. Ibn 'Umar used to give dates (as Sadaqat-ulFitr). Once there was scarcity of dates in Medina and Ibn 'Umar gave barley. 'And Ibn 'Umar used to give Sadaqat-ul-Fitr for every young and old person. He even used to give on behalf of my children. Ibn 'Umar used to give Sadaqatul-Fitr to those who had been officially appointed for its collection. People used to give Sadaqat-ul-Fitr (even) a day or two before the 'Id.

These two hadiths make it clear that there were two different types of Saa .One Saa of date was equal to Half Saa of wheat .Both were equal to two mudds and one mudd is equal to two handfulls of grain 

One should choose different ways while going and returning from Eid prayers:

 A person should choose different ways while going and returning from Eid prayers.This has been mentioned in the following hadith:

Narrated Jabir bin 'Abdullah:
On the Day of 'Id the Prophet used to return (after offering the 'Id prayer) through a way different from that by which he went. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 102)

Salah of Eid should be offered as soon as possible after sunrise

Salah of Eid should be offered as soon as possible after sunrise and it should not be delayed without any reason.This has been mentioned in the following hadith:

Narrated Abdullah ibn Busr:
Yazid ibn Khumayr ar-Rahbi said: Abdullah ibn Busr, the Companion of the Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) came out along with the people on the day of the breaking of the fast or on the day of sacrifice (to offer the prayer). He disliked the delay of the imam, and said: We would finish (our 'Id prayer) at this moment, that is, at the time of forenoon.( Dawud : Book 3 , Hadith 1131)

Salah of Eid is two rakas which should not be led and followed by any additional prayer:

 Salah of Eid is two rakaas which should not be led and followed by any additional prayer.This has been mentioned in the following hadith:

Narrated Ibn 'Abbas:
The Prophet went out and offered a two Rakat prayer on the Day of 'Id ul Fitr and did not offer any other prayer before or after it and at that time Bilal was accompanying him. Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 ,Hadith 104)

There is no adhan for Eid and funeral prayers:

 Unlike other prayers there is no adhan for Eid and funeral prayers.This has been highlighted in the following hadiths:

1.Narrated Ibn Juraij:
'Ata' said, "Jabir bin 'Abdullah said, 'The Prophet went out on the Day of 'Id-ul-Fitr and offered the prayer before delivering the Khutba, Ata told me that during the early days of IbnAz-Zubair, Ibn Abbas had sent a message to him telling him that the Adhan for the 'Id Prayer was never pronounced (in the life time of Allah's Apostle) and the Khutba used to be delivered after the prayer. Ata told me that Ibn Abbas and Jabir bin 'Abdullah, had said, there was no Adhan for the prayer of 'Id-ul-Fitr and 'Id-ul-Aqha." 'At a' said, "I heard Jabir bin 'Abdullah saying, 'The Prophet stood up and started with the prayer, and after it he delivered the Khutba. When the Prophet of Allah (p.b.u.h) finished (the Khutba), he went to the women and preached to them, while he was leaning on Bilal's hand. Bilal was spreading his garment and the ladies were putting alms in it.' " I said to Ata, "Do you think it incumbent upon an Imam to go to the women and preach to them after finishing the prayer and Khutba?" 'Ata' said, "No doubt it is incumbent on Imams to do so, and why should they not do so?" (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 ,Hadith 78)

2.Ibn 'Abbas and Jaibir b. 'Abdullah al-Ansari reported: There was no Adhan on the (occasion) of Id-ul-Fitr and Id-ul-Adha. I (Ibn Juraij) said: I asked him after some time about it. He ('Ata', one of the narrators) said: Jabir b. 'Abdullah al-Ansari told me: There is neither any Adhan on Id-ul-Fitr when the Imam comes out, nor even after his coming out; their is neither lqama nor call nor anything of the sort of calling on that day and nor Iqama. (Muslim : Book 4 , Hadith 1927)

3. Yahya related to me from Malik that he had heard more than one of their men of knowledge say, "There has been no call to prayer or iqama for the id al-Fitr or the id al-Adha since the time of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace."
Malik said, "That is the sunna about which there is no disagreement among us."( Malik : Book 10 , Hadith 10.1.1)

Imam should pray behind sutrah:

It was practice of Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam to use some thing as sutrah when he was praying Eid.This has been narrated by Abdullah bin umer in three different hadiths having slight difference of words but convey the same meaning:

1.Narrated Ibn Umar:
The Prophet used to proceed to the Musalla and an 'Anaza used to be carried before him and planted in the Musalla in front of him and he would pray facing it (as a Sutra).(Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 90)

2.Narrated Ibn Umar:
On the day of 'Id-ul-Fitr and 'Id-ul-Adha a spear used to be planted in front of the Prophet I (as a Sutra for the prayer) and then he would pray. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 89)

3.Ibn Umar reported:
 When the Messenger of Allah (may peace he upon him) went out on the 'Id day, he ordered to carry a spear-and it was fixed in front of him, and he said prayer towards its (direction), and the people were behind him. And he did it in the journey, and that is the reason why the Amirs carried it. (Muslim : Book 4 , Hadith 1010)

Salah of Eid has twelve additional takbeers:

 Prophet salal laho aliehi wasalam used to offer Salah of Eid with twelve additional takbeers and all muslims should try to offer salah of Eid as prophet salal laho aliehi wasalam used to offer it.This has been mentioned in the following hadith:
Narrated Aisha, Ummul Mu'minin:

The Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) would say the takbir (Allah is most great) seven times in the first rak'ah and five times in the second rak'ah on the day of the breaking of the fast and on the day of sacrifice (on the occasion of both the 'Id prayers, the two festivals).( Dawud : Book 3 , Hadith 1145)

The recitation of Surah Al Aaala and Surah al Ghashia  on Eid and Jummah is sunnah of Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam:
The recitation of Surah Al Aaala and Surah al Ghashia  on Eid and Jummah is sunnah of Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam .This fact has been narrated in the following hadith:

Nu'man b. Bashir reported that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) used to recite on two 'Ids and in Friday prayer:" Glorify The name of Thy Lord, the Most High" (Surah lxxxvii.), and:" Has there come to thee the news of the overwhelming event" (lxxxviii.). And when the 'Id and Jumu'a combined on a day he recited these two (surah) in both the prayers.(Muslim : Book 4 , Hadith 1907)

Imam should first lead prayers and than deliver Khutbah:

 Imam should lead prayers and than deliver khutbah of Eid. This has been mentioned in the following hadiths:

1.Narrated Anas bin Malik:
Allah's Apostle offered the prayer on the day of Nahr and then delivered the Khutbah( Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 ,Hadith 100)

2.Narrated Al-Bara' bin 'Azib:
On the day of Nahr Allah's Apostle delivered the Khutba after the 'Id prayer (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 ,Volume 15 , Hadith 99)

3.Narrated Ibn Abbas:
I (in my boyhood) went out with the Prophet on the day of 'Id ul Fitr or Id-ul-Adha. The Prophet prayed and then delivered the Khutba and then went towards the women, preached and advised them and ordered them to give alms.( Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 ,Hadith 92)

4.Narrated 'Abdur Rahman bin 'Abis:
Ibn Abbas was asked whether he had joined the Prophet in the 'Id prayer. He said, "Yes. And I could not have joined him had I not been young. (The Prophet came out) till he reached the mark which was near the house of Kathir bin As-Salt, offered the prayer, delivered the Khutba and then went towards the women. Bilal was accompanying him. He preached to them and advised them and ordered them to give alms. I saw the women putting their ornaments with their outstretched hands into Bilal's garment. Then the Prophet along with Bilal returned home.(Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 94)

5. Narrated 'Abdullah bin Umar:
Allah's Apostle used to offer the prayer of 'Id-ul-Adha and 'Id-ul-Fitr and then deliver the Khutba after the prayer. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 77)

6. Narrated Ibn Umar:
Allah's Apostle, Abu Bakr and Umar! used to offer the two 'Id prayers before delivering the Khutba. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 80)

7. Narrated Ibn Abbas:
I offered the 'Id prayer with Allah's Apostle, Abu Bakr, Umar and 'Uthman and all of them offered the prayer before delivering the Khutba. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 79)

Same hadith has been reported with slight difference of words as follows:

Narrated Ibn Abbas:
I witnessed the 'Id-al-Fitr prayer with Allah's Apostle , Abu Bakr, 'Umar and 'Uthman; and all of them offered it before delivering the sermon and then delivered the sermon(Sahih Bukhari : Book 6 , Volume 60 , Hadith 418)

8. Abu 'Ubaid, the freed slave of Ibn Azhar, reported that he said 'Id (prayer) with Umar b. al-Khattab, and then said the 'Id (prayer) with 'Ali b. Abu Talib. He (the narrator further) reported: He led us in prayer before delivering the sermon.(Muslim : Book 22 , Hadith 4851)

9.Yahya related to me from Malik from Ibn Shihab that Abu Ubayd, the mawla of Ibn Azhar said, "I was present at an id with Umar ibn al-Khattab. He prayed, and then after he had prayed he gave a khutba to the people and said, 'The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, forbade fasting on these two days - the day you break your fast (after Ramadan), and the day you eat from your sacrifice (after Hajj) .' "
Abu Ubaydcontinued,"Then I was present at an id with Uthman ibn Affan. He came and prayed, and when he had finished he gave a khutba and said, 'Two ids have been joined together for you on this day of yours. If any of the people of al-Aliyya (the hills outlying Madina) want to wait for the jumua they can do so, and if any of them want to return, I have given them permission.' Abu Ubayd continued, "Then I was present at an id with AIi ibn Abi Talib (at the time when Uthman was being detained). He came and prayed, and then after he had prayed he gave a khutba." (Malik : Book 10 , Hadith 10.2.5)

Marwan was the first person to change the tradition of Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam to offer prayers before Khutbah:

All the above mentioned hadiths make it clear that it was sunnah of Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam to deliver khutbah after prayers and Marwan was the first person to change this tradition of Rasool salal laho aliehi wasalam.This fact has been highlighted in the following hadith:

Narrated Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri:
The Prophet used to proceed to the Musalla on the days of Id-ul-Fitr and Id-ul-Adha; the first thing to begin with was the prayer and after that he would stand in front of the people and the people would keep sitting in their rows. Then he would preach to them, advise them and give them orders, (i.e. Khutba). And after that if he wished to send an army for an expedition, he would do so; or if he wanted to give and order, he would do so, and then depart. The people followed this tradition till I went out with Marwan, the Governor of Medina, for the prayer of Id-ul-Adha or Id-ul-Fitr.
When we reached the Musalla, there was a pulpit made by Kathir bin As-Salt. Marwan wanted to get up on that pulpit before the prayer. I got hold of his clothes but he pulled them and ascended the pulpit and delivered the Khutba before the prayer. I said to him, "By Allah, you have changed (the Prophet's tradition)." He replied, "O Abu Sa'id! Gone is that which you know." I said, "By Allah! What I know is better than what I do not know." Marwan said, "People do not sit to listen to our Khutba after the prayer, so I delivered the Khutba before the prayer (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 76)

Khutbah of Eid should be delivered without pulpit :

 Khutbah of Jummah is delivered on pulpit but khutbah of Eid is delivered without pulpit.This fact has been highlighted in the following hadith:

Narrated Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri:

The Prophet used to proceed to the Musalla on the days of Id-ul-Fitr and Id-ul-Adha; the first thing to begin with was the prayer and after that he would stand in front of the people and the people would keep sitting in their rows. Then he would preach to them, advise them and give them orders, (i.e. Khutba). And after that if he wished to send an army for an expedition, he would do so; or if he wanted to give and order, he would do so, and then depart. The people followed this tradition till I went out with Marwan, the Governor of Medina, for the prayer of Id-ul-Adha or Id-ul-Fitr.
When we reached the Musalla, there was a pulpit made by Kathir bin As-Salt. Marwan wanted to get up on that pulpit before the prayer. I got hold of his clothes but he pulled them and ascended the pulpit and delivered the Khutba before the prayer. I said to him, "By Allah, you have changed (the Prophet's tradition)." He replied, "O Abu Sa'id! Gone is that which you know." I said, "By Allah! What I know is better than what I do not know." Marwan said, "People do not sit to listen to our Khutba after the prayer, so I delivered the Khutba before the prayer (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 76)

If Eid comes on Friday one khutbah is enough:

 If Eid comes on Friday one khutbah is enough.One can leave Friday sermon on that day .This has been highlighted in the following hadith:

Narrated AbuHurayrah:
The Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) said: Two festivals ('Id and Friday) have synchronised on this day. If anyone does not want to offer the Friday prayer, the 'Id prayer is sufficient for him. But we shall offer the Friday prayer. (Dawud : Book 3 , Hadith 1068)

In case of Rain fall Eid can be offered in Masjid:

 In case of Rainfall Eid can be offered in masjid.This has been mentioned in the following hadith:

Narrated AbuHurayrah:
The rain fell on the day of 'Id (festival) , so the Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) led them (the people) in the 'Id prayer in the mosque.( Dawud : Book 3 , Hadith 1156)

Women should also join Eid prayers :

Women are also commanded to join Eid prayers.There should be however separate arrangement to maintain their Hijab and veil.This is proved from following hadiths:

1.Narrated Um-'Atiya:
We were ordered to go out (for 'Id) and also to take along with us the menstruating women, mature girls and virgins staying in seclusion. (Ibn 'Aun said, "Or mature virgins staying in seclusion)." The menstruating women could present themselves at the religious gathering and invocation of Muslims but should keep away from their Musalla. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 97)

2.Narrated Aiyub:
Hafsa bint Sirin said, "On Id we used to forbid our girls to go out for 'Id prayer. A lady came and stayed at the palace of Bani Khalaf and I went to her. She said, 'The husband of my sister took part in twelve holy battles along with the Prophet and my sister was with her husband in six of them. My sister said that they used to nurse the sick and treat the wounded. Once she asked, 'O Allah's Apostle! If a woman has no veil, is there any harm if she does not come out (on 'Id day)?' The Prophet said, 'Her companion should let her share her veil with her, and the women should participate in the good deeds and in the religious gatherings of the believers.' " Hafsa added, "When Um-'Atiya came, I went to her and asked her, 'Did you hear anything about so-and-so?' Um-'Atlya said, 'Yes, let my father be sacrificed for the Prophet (p.b.u.h). (And whenever she mentioned the name of the Prophet she always used to say, 'Let my father be' sacrificed for him). He said, 'Virgin mature girls staying often screened (or said, 'Mature girls and virgins staying often screened--Aiyub is not sure as which was right) and menstruating women should come out (on the 'Id day). But the menstruating women should keep away from the Musalla. And all the women should participate in the good deeds and in the religious gatherings of the believers'." Hafsa said, "On that I said to Um-'Atiya, 'Also those who are menstruating?' " Um-'Atiya replied, "Yes. Do they not present themselves at 'Arafat and elsewhere?". (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 ,Volume 15 , Hadith 96)

3.Narrated Ibn Juraij:
'Ata' told me that he had heard Jabir bin 'Abdullah saying, "The Prophet stood up to offer the prayer of the 'Id ul Fitr. He first offered the prayer and then delivered the Khutba. After finishing it he got down (from the pulpit) and went towards the women and advised them while he was leaning on Bilal's hand. Bilal was spreading out his garment where the women were putting their alms." I asked 'Ata' whether it was the Zakat of 'Id ul Fitr. He said, "No, it was just alms given at that time. Some lady put her finger ring and the others would do the same." I said, (to 'Ata'), "Do you think that it is incumbent upon the Imam to give advice to the women (on 'Id day)?" He said, "No doubt, it is incumbent upon the Imams to do so and why should they not do so?" Al-Hasan bin Muslim told me that Ibn Abbas had said, "I join the Prophet, Abu Bakr, Umar and 'Uthman in the 'Id ul Fitr prayers. They used to offer the prayer before the Khutba and then they used to deliver the Khutba afterwards. Once the Prophet I came out (for the 'Id prayer) as if I were just observing him waving to the people to sit down. He, then accompanied by Bilal, came crossing the rows till he reached the women. He recited the following verse: 'O Prophet! When the believing women come to you to take the oath of fealty to you (to the end of the verse) (60.12).' After finishing the recitation he said, "O ladies! Are you fulfilling your covenant?" None except one woman said, "Yes." Hasan did not know who was that woman. The Prophet said, "Then give alms." Bilal spread his garment and said, "Keep on giving alms. Let my father and mother sacrifice their lives for you (ladies)." So the ladies kept on putting their Fatkhs (big rings) and other kinds of rings in Bilal's garment." Abdur-Razaq said, " 'Fatkhs' is a big ring which used to be worn in the (Pre-lslamic) period of ignorance.(Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 ,Volume 15 ,Hadith 95)

4.Narrated 'Abdur Rahman bin 'Abis:
Ibn Abbas was asked whether he had joined the Prophet in the 'Id prayer. He said, "Yes. And I could not have joined him had I not been young. (The Prophet came out) till he reached the mark which was near the house of Kathir bin As-Salt, offered the prayer, delivered the Khutba and then went towards the women. Bilal was accompanying him. He preached to them and advised them and ordered them to give alms. I saw the women putting their ornaments with their outstretched hands into Bilal's garment. Then the Prophet along with Bilal returned home.(Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 94)

Women should however pray behind men and also raise takbeers like men .This has been mentioned in the following hadith:

Narrated Um 'Atiya:
We used to be ordered to come out on the Day of 'Id and even bring out the virgin girls from their houses and menstruating women so that they might stand behind the men and say Takbir along with them and invoke Allah along with them and hope for the blessings of that day and for purification from sins. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 ,Hadith 88)

One should spend in the way of Allah swt on the day of Eid:

It is proved from hadiths that Muslims used to spend in the way of Allah swt on the day of Eid.Even the women were trying to spend in the way of Allah swt .This has been mentioned in the following hadith:

Narrated 'Abdur Rahman bin 'Abis:
Ibn Abbas was asked whether he had joined the Prophet in the 'Id prayer. He said, "Yes. And I could not have joined him had I not been young. (The Prophet came out) till he reached the mark which was near the house of Kathir bin As-Salt, offered the prayer, delivered the Khutba and then went towards the women. Bilal was accompanying him. He preached to them and advised them and ordered them to give alms. I saw the women putting their ornaments with their outstretched hands into Bilal's garment. Then the Prophet along with Bilal returned home.(Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 94)

One should not terrify others on the day of Eid:

It is not allowed for Muslims to terrify Muslims on the day of Eid. They should not carry weapons with them because this day is the day of love and peace .This fact has been highlighted in the following hadith:

Narrated Said bin 'Amr bin Said bin Al-'Aas:
Al-Hajjaj went to Ibn Umar while I was present there. Al-Hajjaj asked Ibn Umar, "How are you?" Ibn Umar replied, "I am all right," Al-Hajjaj asked, "Who wounded you?" Ibn Umar replied, "The person who allowed arms to be carried on the day on which it was forbidden to carry them (he meant Al-Hajjaj)"( Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 84)

On another instance this hadith has being described in detail:

Narrated Said bin Jubair:
I was with Ibn Umar when a spear head pierced the sole of his foot and his foot stuck to the paddle of the saddle and I got down and pulled his foot out, and that happened in Mina. Al-Hajjaj got the news and came to enquire about his health and said, "Alas! If we could only know the man who wounded you!" Ibn Umar said, "You are the one who wounded me." Al-Hajjaj said, "How is that?" Ibn Umar said, "You have allowed the arms to be carried on a day on which nobody used to carry them and you allowed arms to be carried in the Haram even though it was not allowed before."(Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 ,Volume 15 , Hadith 83)

Small girls can sing on Eid without musical instruments :

Small girls can sing on Eid days without playing musical instruments to celebrate Eid festivals.This has been mentioned in the following hadith:

Narrated Aisha:
Abu Bakr came to my house while two small Ansari girls were singing beside me the stories of the Ansar concerning the Day of Buath. And they were not singers. Abu Bakr said protestingly, "Musical instruments of Satan in the house of Allah's Apostle !" It happened on the 'Id day and Allah's Apostle said, "O Abu Bakr! There is an 'Id for every nation and this is our 'Id."(Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 ,Volume 15 , Hadith 72)

There can be entertainment on Eid days to celebrate the festival .This entertainment should not exceed the limits of shariah .

There can be entertainment on Eid days to celebrate the festival .This entertainment should not exceed the limits of shariahThis has been mentioned in the following hadiths:

1.Narrated Aisha:
Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) came to my house while two girls were singing beside me the songs of Buath (a story about the war between the two tribes of the Ansar, the Khazraj and the Aus, before Islam). The Prophet (p.b.u.h) lay down and turned his face to the other side. Then Abu Bakr came and spoke to me harshly saying, "Musical instruments of Satan near the Prophet (p.b.u.h) ?" Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) turned his face towards him and said, "Leave them." When Abu Bakr became inattentive, I signalled to those girls to go out and they left. It was the day of 'Id, and the Black people were playing with shields and spears; so either I requested the Prophet (p.b.u.h) or he asked me whether I would like to see the display. I replied in the affirmative. Then the Prophet (p.b.u.h) made me stand behind him and my cheek was touching his cheek and he was saying, "Carry on! O Bani Arfida," till I got tired. The Prophet (p.b.u.h) asked me, "Are you satisfied (Is that sufficient for you)?" I replied in the affirmative and he told me to leave. (Sahih Bukhari : Book 2 , Volume 15 , Hadith 70)

2. Abu Sa`id Khudri reported: We were going with Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him). As we reached the place (known as) Arj there met (us) a poet who had been reciting poetry. Thereupon Allah's Messanger (may peace be upon him) said: Catch the satan or detain the satan, for filling the belly of a man with pus is betting than stuffing his brain with poetry. (Muslim : Book 28 : Hadith 5611)
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