After the announcement of the position of Prophethood, he (s.a.w.s.) departed from the cave of Hira towards his house. He accepted the responsibility of divine leadership of mankind. He took it upon himself to guide the deviated people away from darkness towards light. After that, he became the trustee of divine Revelation and the representative of Allah. Hazrat Jibrael (a.s.) used to come and recite the verses in front of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.). Armed with strong insight, total confidence and the slogan of divine unity (tauheed), he (s.a.w.s.) started inviting the people towards Allah.

In the beginning, he invited his near relatives towards the real Creator and the worship of the real God, and later, extended his (s.a.w.s.) invitation to the inhabitants of Mecca. Still later, he invited the other Arabs of the Arabian peninsula towards the religion of Allah. He (s.a.w.s.) introduced himself as a prophet like the past Prophets (a.s.), and the final messenger of Allah. Amongst men, Hazrat Ali (a.s.) was the first person to accept Islam and amidst women, it was Ummul Mo’meneen – Hazrat Khadija (s.a.), the wife of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.). And then, gradually people started accepting Islam. For three years, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) invited people towards the religion of Islam secretly. Then by the order of Allah, he started calling them openly. He propagated in Mecca for a period of 13 years. As the dissemination of Islam increased, the oppression of the polytheists also was on the rise. Finally, Allah ordered the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) to migrate to Medina.

MIGRATION (HIJRAT)

For a period of time (13 years), the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was in the holy city of Mecca. The idol worshippers of Quraish left no stone unturned in torturing the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and the Muslims. As the tortures of the Quraish reached unbearable limits, a group from among the followers of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) were ordered to migrate to Habasha (Ethiopia) in the 5th year of declaration of Prophethood. It was impossible for the Quraish to stop the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) from achieving his grand, divine purpose. They realised that their threats and intimidation had no effect on the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.). So they planned to kill Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) in the dead of night by surrounding his house. The Almighty Allah made the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) aware of their plot and ordered him (s.a.w.s.) to make Hazrat Ali (a.s.) sleep on his (s.a.w.s.) bed. Then as commanded by Allah, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) made Ali (a.s.) lie down on his bed and that very night, he migrated from Mecca towards Medina. The people of Medina had a soft corner for the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and were wholeheartedly waiting to welcome him. This occasion (Hijrat) marked the commencement of the Islamic calendar.

Even after the migration of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.), the Quraish did not stop opposing the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.). They were constantly hindering his movements and continued torturing the Muslims. Due to this very reason the battles of Badr, Ohad and Khandaq took place. In the 8th year of migration, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and a large group of Muslims marched towards Mecca and conquered it. Afterwards, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) returned to Medina and till his last moments, he (s.a.w.s.) stayed there. During this period of 10 years of his stay in Medina, Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was busy defending the Muslims against the infidels, guiding the people towards the religion of Islam, and propagating the laws of the Shariat. The remaining part of the Quran was revealed on the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) in this decade. By the time the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) had breathed his last, a large proportion of the Arabian population had embraced Islam.

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) passed away on the 28th Safar 11 A.H., plunging the world in darkness. His (s.a.w.s.) pure body was buried in Medina-e-Munawwara. Even today after more than 1,400 years, we witness the triumph and success of his (s.a.w.s.) mission.

The Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was the paragon of virtues and excellent traits, some of which are mentioned below. This is to enable us to recognize him (s.a.w.s.) in a better way, gain enlightenment by his (s.a.w.s.) impeccable character and attributes, and take him as a role model. Thus, we would achieve success in both the worlds.

While declaring support for him, Allah the Almighty says,

"And that Allah might help you with a mighty help."

(Surah Fath: 3)

Allah Almighty loves his name, religion and his teachings and keeps it high and elevated and exalted.

"And exalted for you your esteem."

(Surah Inshirah: 4)

Sometimes Allah mentions the matchless morals of His Prophet (s.a.w.s.)

"And most surely you conform (yourself) to sublime morality."

(Surah Qalam: 4)

The Holy Quran which remembers this world by the word ö½æÎê¼ä³ èªBN¿ which means an ordinary thing of little value, describes the morals of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) as the greatest and most sublime.
Allah who has bestowed abundance goodness (kauthar and katheer) on the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) in this world as well as hereafter, declares,

"Surely We have given you Kauthar."

(Surah Kauthar: 1)

By giving him the right of intercession, Allah declared his greatness and made him a blessing for the whole universe. On top of all these, the Majestic Quran orders,

"Whoever obeys the Apostle, he indeed obeys Allah."

(Surah Nisa: 80)

This is because he (s.a.w.s.) does not utter even a single word on his own accord or desire.

"Nor does he speak out of desire. It is naught but a revelation that is revealed."

(Surah Najm: 3 – 4)

And he (s.a.w.s.) never deviates from the right path

"And surely you (O Prophet) are on the right path."

(Surah Zukhruf: 43)

We are talking about that great personality who had to surmount numerous difficulties and faced unbearable tortures to guide the people towards the right path. Due to which this verse was communicated,

"Ta Ha! We have not revealed the Quran upon you that you may bear difficulties."

(Surah Taha: 2)

Dear readers, the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) had come to purify our souls and to give knowledge, and basically the aim of all the Prophets (a.s.) was the same. Tazkiya means to purify so that people make themselves free of evils, pollution, selfishness and prejudices. Here, it would not be inappropriate to narrate the following incident:

One man riding a horse came near a shallow stream. The horse refused to cross the stream. The man after climbing down the horse lifted his clothes and pulled the reins of the horse. But it did not budge. The man started whipping the horse. But all his efforts were in vain. A learned person who was standing in the corner observed the entire incident. He called the man and told to him that if he makes the water muddy with his stick, the horse will easily cross the stream. He did accordingly, and the horse duly obliged. The owner too crossed the stream and thanked the learned person. He also inquired about the logic behind the suggestion.

The learned man replied that since the water was clean and transparent, the horse could see his shadow in water and hence did not like to keep his feet on his face. So, he stood still. Similarly when man sees himself, he focuses his attention on himself and desires goodness for himself. He looks at himself and does not like to keep his feet on his evil desires and satanic greed. That is why he stops and abhors any type of change. One who doesn’t suppress the whisperings of Shaitaan and his evil desires, he will never reach the stage of meeting Allah.

Tazkiya means a person should not be buried under his lust and greed. He should not be a slave of his desires. He should purify his soul from polytheism, jealousy, acquiring status and dignity, disgrace and dishonour, fear and dreadfulness, hard-heartedness and must deliver his thoughts from ignorance, negligence and carelessness.

Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) teaches us to purify our souls. That teaching which is in accordance with the Glorious Quran and of which he (s.a.w.s.) himself was the teacher.

Even though there is no occasion here of describing the excellence of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) but as an example we mention a few instances of the Holy Prophet’s (s.a.w.s.) ethics and character so that by learning about these instances, we too may follow his (s.a.w.s.) footsteps.

• Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was the possessor of high morals.
• He (s.a.w.s.) used to meet people happily and cheerfully.
• He (s.a.w.s.) was always the first to salute and there was perpetual smile on his face.
• Whenever a stranger used to enter the gathering, it was difficult for him to recognise Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) as there was no discrimination between him (s.a.w.s.) and the companions in the seating arrangement.
• He (s.a.w.s.) used to meet the poor and the needy with love and kindness and behaved with them like brothers.
• His (s.a.w.s.) dress was simple and his life style was like that of an ordinary person.

OTHER CHARACTERISTICS OF HOLY PROPHET (S.A.W.S.)

As already mentioned, the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) had came to purify the human souls (from the contamination of sins and polytheism) and finally to teach and train them. For only when the land is ready for cultivation can one can sow the seeds. The work of Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was on the same lines – first he (s.a.w.s.) attempted to purify the hearts from evil thoughts and polytheistic beliefs, so that he (s.a.w.s.) could then sow the seeds of Divine Unity in the hearts of the people.

To narrate the excellence and pure characteristics of Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is a near impossible task, and would require a herculean effort. Here we only wish to hint at a few important characteristics, so that readers can acquire some basic knowledge about his (s.a.w.s.) impeccable morals and can trend his (s.a.w.s.) path.

Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.), amongst all actions, gave utmost importance to namaz, because namaz is the foundation and pillar of religion. A believer engaged in namaz is in fact talking to Allah, his Creator. Whatever is present on the earth and in the skies is in His domain and power. Namaz is the first step towards worshipping Allah. Namaz saves the believer from the filth of sins. During namaz, we declare our belief in Allah, and repeat this five times a day, so it is necessary that whatever we declare in namaz, must be actualised through our deeds.

Let us examine ourselves, and see whether we enact what we proclaim in our namaz. For instance, when we say – Malike Yaumid Deen – Master of the Day of Judgement.
This means that we acknowledge Allah as the Sole Authority on the Day of Judgement. We testify to the fact that Allah will give reward/punish us for our deeds of this world in the hereafter. But do we really consider Allah as the Master of our daily affairs, or do we consider wealth and fame as our Masters? Then in namaz we claim -
Iyya Ka Na’bodo Wa Iyya Ka Nastaeen – You alone we worship and from You alone we seek help.

But very often we tend to ignore this covenant and resort to others (deities) for help and assistance.
Then we must check our character and see if it is truly Islamic. Namaz is the sign and announcement of faith (Eemaan). Namaz is from the obligations of religion, it is one of the most critical acts of worship. When we see that the Prophet of Islam (s.a.w.s.) gave utmost priority to namaz, then we as believers, must also accord namaz the importance it deserves and pray it punctually.

Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) was the upholder of high morals and good deeds. He valued cleanliness highly as it was a part of faith. The Prophets (a.s.) were in fact the doctors of both the body as well as the soul. For this very reason Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) used to say that keep yourselves clean and tidy so you are away from sickness and keep your body as well as the environment clean and pure. God forbid, it should not be that we, as well as our surroundings, are all unclean and impure while we take pride in being Muslims.

Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) always accepted the invitation of poor and needy. During his journeys, he (s.a.w.s.) was the best companion and a sincere helper. He consoled the oppressed and the afflicted ones. He helped the indigent and visited the sick people, as all these are acts of worship. He (s.a.w.s.) used to befriend the sick in their loneliness and grief. He (s.a.w.) used to take some fruits or some gifts as these invigorate the sick.

Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) used to respect the elderly and ordered us to do the same. He was very kind and merciful towards the orphans and has also recommended us to adopt his (s.a.w.s.) kind disposition. Humility was second nature to him (s.a.w.s.). He (s.a.w.s.) never allowed pride and conceit to enter his (s.a.w.s.) heart, despite being Allah’s greatest creation. Pride, arrogance and conceit are signs of meanness in a person. Examine a tree, which is without fruits. It stands upright like a proud man, but as soon as the tree starts bearing fruits, its branches starts bending due to the weight of the fruits and the worth and value of that tree increases due to the fruits it bears. Similarly, the proud man is like the tree without any fruits. Allah doesn’t love and nor does He befriend the proud and the arrogant ones. After all what do we mortals possess, and what are we proud of?

Holy Prophet’s (s.a.w.s.) behaviour towards his family members was very good. He advised others also to behave well with their family members. But unfortunately, most of us keep all the possible information of other people’s lives – their lifestyle, their clothes, family gossip, marital discord, income level, eating and drinking habits, etc. But ironically, we are unaware of our own family members and are oblivious to what is going on in their lives. We shower favours and gifts on othes, but we deprive our own family members of their most basic wants. Whatever pent-up fury we have inside us, is targeted at our family members in the form of violent outbursts of anger. This is only because we know that they will not retaliate. We never do this to our superiors at work, because we know that our behaviour will not be tolerated there. This is not how a true Muslim is expected to behave.

The Prophet of Islam (s.a.w.s.) was always endeavoured to fulfil the needs of others. He himself participated in the battles. He behaved very nicely and magnanimously with his companions. He never associated with the disobedient, and the haughty ones. His (s.a.w.s.) only concern was to reform mankind, to make the hearts attentive towards the Almighty Allah, and to propagate the importance of excellent morals. His (s.a.w.s.) character, sayings, behaviour, politeness and kindness was always at its peak and was clearly evident to everyone. If he (s.a.w.s.) wanted to stop someone from doing something wrong, he never said so in an insulting manner so as to humiliate that person. He always took precedence in offering salutations (salaam). The people considered the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) to be so truthful that even the infidels (kuffaar) of Mecca began calling him (s.a.w.s.) as ‘Sadiq’. Friends and enemies alike, considered him as an excellent trustee of their wealth and belongings, and gave him (s.a.w.s.) the title of ‘Ameen’.

Having gained such invaluable insight into the Prophet’s (s.a.w.s.) life, we must try to make a dedicated effort to emulate his (s.a.w.s.) excellent morals. Inshallah, Allah and His Messenger (s.a.w.s.) will definitely help us in our endeavour.

MIRACLES

A Prophet should posses two attributes viz. divine knowledge and power to perform miracles. These two characteristics signify his relation with the celestial world (Aalame Malakoot). In order to have the desired effect, the miracle performed by the Prophet must be suited to the prevailing era. Now we would like to enumerate the distinctive characteristics of our Prophet’s (s.a.w.s.) miracle:

1. Keeping in mind that the prophethood of our Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is to last till Qiyamat, his miracle should also last till that time. So the Prophet’s (s.a.w.s.) everlasting miracle is the Holy Quran.
2. The matter of Islamic miracle is language and speech with which people are always in touch.
3. The Noble Quran is the best of literary works with regard to its concept and meaning, it is the best conversation and it also describes the best mode of life.
4. The Glorious Quran, apart from being a most wondrous miracle, is also Allah’s covenant with man. This was not the case with the miracles of other Prophets (a.s.).

The Majestic Quran, the Book of guidance, is present in every Muslim’s house. This Book was revealed on Prophet Mohammed b. Abdullah (s.a.w.s.) by Allah, in the most eloquent of languages – Arabic. Quran contains 114 chapters (surahs), 30 sections, 6,205 verses (ayaat) and 87,000 alphabets. The reason for conflict in the number of verses is because some scholars consider ÁæÎêYìj"A øÅ{ÀæYìj"A êÉé}¼"A øÁænøI and Huroof-e-Muqatta’aat (Á"A) as a complete verse while others don’t.

The Holy Quran was revealed in an environment where people were unaware of the importance of knowledge, wisdom, manners and civilisation. According to historians, only 17 persons were able to read and write in the whole city of Mecca. This included the tribe of Quraish as well as other tribes surrounding Mecca. Allah, the Almighty, revealed the Quran on His Prophet (s.a.w.s.) in such circumstances. Allah, the High, at many places in Quran has invited the skeptics to bring a book like it. For instance, He declares,

"If men and Jinn should combine together to bring the like of this Quran, they could not bring the like of it, though some of them were assistants of others."

(Surah Bani Israel: 88)

At another place, the Holy Quran challenges,

"Or do they say: He has forged it, say: Then bring ten forged chapters like it."

(Surah Hud:13)

Again, it proclaims,

"Say: Then bring a chapter like this and invite whom you can besides Allah if you are truthful."

(Surah Yunus: 38)

While Allah is aware that none can bring the like of Quran, He dares,

"Or do they say: He has forged it. Nay! They don’t believe. Then let them bring an announcement like it if they are truthful.’

(Surah Toor: 33-34)

Dear readers if you ponder over the above Quranic verses, you will realise that time and again Allah has invited the enemies to bring a lesser similitude of the Quran and even reduced the limits of His challenge. More than 1,400 years have passed. Till date, none has displayed the ability or power to bring a Surah like Surah Kauthar, which is the smallest chapter of Quran, although there has been no scarcity of antagonism from the disbelievers, polytheists and the hypocrites who expressed their hatred and enmity through various means. On the other hand, each and every verse of the Holy Quran, is a vast ocean of eloquence whose like is not found. Even the great scholars of Arabic literature submit themselves with great surprise in front of the greatness and magnificence of the Holy Quran.

Apart from eloquence, Allah the Almighty, in the Quran, has brought lofty ethics and beliefs that can never be rivalled by man. The Holy Quran guides us towards the path of success in this world, as well as the hereafter. Every thing is mentioned in the Quran, and this is clear testimony to the fact that it is a miracle.

Dear readers, let us understand the Glorious Quran in a better way. It is that Book of Allah, which shows how to train our souls. It introduces the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and Hazrat Ibrahim, the friend of Allah (a.s.) as the idol breakers. It is a guide that takes man from deviation towards Allah’s proximity. It is easy and clear and invites man to reflect about himself. It is that Book which advances clear proofs to support its arguments. It educates man through the history of previous Prophets (a.s.) and incidents of past nations. By narrating examples, conclusions, and good exhortation, it invites man to struggle and endeavour in Allah’s way. Its stories and incidents are not for entertainment but for taking lessons. It not only narrates details of the past nation but also cites reasons for their advancement and destruction.

The Holy Quran is the light that removes all darkness. It is a cure for all diseases. It quenches the thirst of the scholars. It gives life to the jurists, gives arguments and proofs to the orators, a proof to thwart enemies, beneficial for the readers, a verdict for rulers and judges. Our pens are incompetent to narrate its excellence.

Unfortunately, Muslims are unaware of this Book of deliverance and salvation. Today, we just use this book as a tool for rituals or for adornment. For example, to show the skill of architecture, they carve the Quranic verses, by using the verses in the monograms of advertisement, engraving the verses on the graves, engraving verses on the stones of wells. Adorned in a decorative covering, Quran is presented as dowry to our daughters.

We still have time, as yet, death has not knocked on our doors. Let us take a look at the saying of Hazrat Ali Ibn Abi Talib (a.s.), who says regarding Allah’s Word,

"When the mischief of the world surrounds you and your society, like the darkness of night, then take hold of the Quran for your deliverance and salvation."

(Usul-e-Kaafi, vol. 2)

THE END OF PROPHETHOOD: THE SEAL OF PROPHETS

Let us now talk about the end of Prophethood. The Prophet of Islam, Hazrat Mohammed Mustafa (s.a.w.s.) is the last messenger of Allah, and no Messenger or Prophet will succeed him (s.a.w.s.). To believe that Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is the last messenger is one of the necessities of Islam. In other words, it is obligatory on all Muslims to have this belief and whosoever denies Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) to be the last Prophet, is an unbeliever. This is because denying this belief is in fact denying the Quran and the Prophet of Islam (s.a.w.s.).

Dear readers! When Allah created man, He sent messengers for their guidance. As previously man’s mode of living was very simple and uncomplicated, Allah did not inform the people about everything – just like a teacher who does not teach those lessons that are above the student’s level. Similarly, Allah sent Prophets (a.s.), who guided the people in accordance with the needs of people. After sending 123,999 prophets, Allah sent the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) as the last of His Prophets (a.s.). It is evident from the Holy Quran and books of traditions that the Prophet of Islam (s.a.w.s.) was the last divine Prophet. So whosoever claims to be the prophet of Allah after Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is a liar, and he can only be a messenger of Shaitaan.

Allah the Almighty has very clearly declared Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) to be His last Messenger so that nobody has a doubt. It is revealed in the 40th verse of Surah Ahzaab,

"Mohammed is not the father of any of your men, but he is the apostle of Allah and the last of the prophets and Allah is Cognisant of all things."

Thus, Hazrat Muhammad Mustafa (s.a.w.s.) is the last Messenger of Allah, after which prophethood has ended. Now, if somebody states any other meaning of this verse, then surely he is a fraud.

As regards the finality of prophethood, the enemies of Islam raise objections by asking how it is possible that the religion, which had come fourteen centuries back, can solve the problems and difficulties of the present era. Therefore, the existence of a new prophet is necessary.

Then we must ask these people whether the religion of Allah is some fashionable dress, shoes, bag etc. whose fashion changes according to the time. Individual and social virtues/evils are constant and do not alter according to the era. In these circumstances it is necessary to have laws that are constant and do not change. For instance, truthfulness, trustworthiness, honesty, faithfulness, loyalty, lying, breach of trust, obscenity, etc. – these evils and virtues were always present in society and their existence will continue even in future. Then it is important to have some laws that are everlasting and permanent and are not affected by the changes and alterations in society.

Secondly, the religion of Allah has introduced very general laws that are applicable for wide-ranging problems. If a new problem crops up and it is difficult for us to determine our religious obligation then we must refer to the jurists who will try to resolve the problem in line with the terms and conditions stated by the Ahle Bayt (a.s.). They will inform us about Allah’s commands regarding that problem and will issue a decree (fatwa) in the light of Quranic verses and traditions of Ahle Bayt (a.s.).

Islamic laws have been framed keeping in view the reality of mankind – his nature and instinct, and his real and basic necessities. On this basis, even as society keeps evolving, the Islamic laws can regulate the society of every era in a better way.

Allah has clearly declared the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) to be the last of prophets, in Surae Ahzaab 40 :

‘And Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Apostle of Allah, and the last of prophets;’

After this declaration of the Holy Quran, it would be appropriate to narrate the tradition of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) regarding the "The seal of Prophets". The tradition is famous as Hadith-e-Tamtheel which has been narrated by the Shia and Ahle Sunnah scholars. We are quoting the names of the Ahle Sunnah books in which this tradition has been recorded, viz. Sahihe Bukhari, part 4, page 22, Musnade Ahmad b. Hanbal vol. 2, page 938, Al Taj al-Jaame’ vol. 3, page 229 – sourced from Sahihe Muslim, Sahihe Bukhari and Sunane-Tirmizi.

Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) narrates:

‘My similitude and the similitude of the previous prophets is like somebody constructing a beautiful house. He completes the construction of the house, except for one brick in a corner. Then whoever enters the house will find the house attractive, but will most certainly inquire about the missing brick in the corner of the house. Then the last brick will ensure the completion of the house. My similitude is like that of the brick as I am Allah’s last prophet and it is through me that Prophethood has been completed and perfected. "I am that last brick and I am the one through whom the chain of Prophethood has been completed.

(Saheeh Bukhari part 4, page 22, Musnade Ahmad b. Hambal vol. 2, page 938, Al Taj al-Jaame’ vol. 3, page 229 – sourced from Sahihe Muslim, Sahihe Bukhari and Sunane-Tirmizi)

The conclusion of this entire discussion is that on the basis of Islamic tenets, Quranic verses, and the traditions of the infallibles (a.s.), Islam is the last religion of Allah, the Holy Quran is the last divine book and the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) is the last link in the chain of prophethood. Whoever denies this belief is in manifest error and has no relation with Islam. In fact such a person has stepped outside the realm of Islam into the realm of disbelief (kufr).

Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.), the prophet of Allah, was approximately 250 years old. The holy Quran mentions about Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.) thus:

"And to Madyan (We sent) their brother Shoaib. He said, O my people! Serve Allah, you have no god other than Him. Clear proof has indeed come to you from your Lord. Therefore give full measure and weight. And do not diminish to men their things and do not make mischief in the land after its reform. This is better for you if you are believers."

(A’raaf: 85)

Madyan is located in present day Palestine. Its inhabitants were mostly traders. They led a very happy and a prosperous life. Due to Allah’s grace and endowments, they were very wealthy. But instead of thanking Allah for His bounties, they turned greedy and started cheating and betraying people in business. They used to cheat in weighing goods i.e. when they sold goods they weighed less whereas while buying they asked for more. Fraud and deceit were commonplace and the one who was more expert in this field was considered more intelligent and wise.

It is not a coincidence, that even today the person who is more deceitful and fraudulent is considered to be wise while honest and forthright people are deemed as foolish.

Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.) prohibited the people from committing such contemptible deeds, and also reminded them about Allah’s chastisement. But people mocked at him and said, "You want us to worship as you worship? You expect us to leave the religion of our forefathers? You expect us to employ some other method in our trade? You want us to deal honestly and suffer losses? Never! Certainly we will never heed you! Since you have become old and also have children, we pardon you. Else we would certainly have stoned you to death’!

However, Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.) continued propagating, notwithstanding the severe opposition. Finally they drove him out of the city. When Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.) was convinced that people were not willing to listen to his exhortations and only wanted to continue in their oppressive and mischievous ways, he raised his hands and beseeched, ‘O Allah! Send your chastisement upon them’.

Even today, we see people innovate new customs and traditions, which lead them towards sin. They are deviated from religion and when a religious scholar tells them to avoid such customs and rituals, they retort, ‘Should we abandon the customs of our forefathers?!’

In any case, Allah answered the prayers of Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.) and an earthquake destroyed the inhabitants of Madyan. After the destruction, he (a.s.) was appointed for guidance in another region near Madyan. These people were also like those of Madyan, and would say, "You are human like us, and you are a liar! Indeed if you are true, then tell your Allah that a part of the sky should fall on us and destroy us."

After tremendous efforts and propagation, when these people did not discard their evil ways, Allah produced intense heat in that area and consequently, wherever there was water, it began boiling. This (form of punishment) continued for seven days. At last a piece of cloud was seen in the sky and people gathered under its shadow, as it was very cool. But soon by the order of Allah, the cloud started raining fire at the disobedient nation, and everything turned into ashes.

BIRTH OF HAZRAT MOOSA (A.S.)

After the expiry of Hazrat Yaqoob (a.s.) and Hazrat Yusuf (a.s.), the Egyptian kingdom fell in the hands of other rulers who were called as Firaun (the Rameses dynasty).

The Israelites were very large in number, and their population multiplied by the day. This made the Firaun very apprehensive, and he sensed danger from the increasing number of Israelites. So he began persecuting and killing them in order to decrease their numbers. His oppression and tyranny knew no bounds.

One day, an astrologer prophesied to Firaun that a child would be born in his kingdom who would destroy his government. Firaun was terrified, ordered his spies and agents to slay without hesitation every newborn male infant in his kingdom. All female infants were spared. But who dare destroy him whom God saves! Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) was indeed born. The details are known that his mother put him in a basket and disposed it in the river Nile. But lo and behold Allah’s Power! Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) reached the palace of Firaun and was brought up over there itself! The most amazing thing is that not only was he raised in the royal environs, he even had his mother invited to feed and suckle him. The story goes that any wet nurse who was invited to suckle him, was rejected by the child (Hazrat Moosa (a.s.)) himself as he refused to be fed by them. Ultimately, his sister who had followed him right from the banks of the Nile to the palace, requested Janab-e-Aasiya that she would get a nurse who could feed the child and thus, the mother of Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) gained entry into the palace of Firaun.

THE EXODUS FROM EGYPT

One day Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) was proceeding to the palace of Firaun, when he saw two people engaged in physical assault and fighting. One was an Egyptian and the other an Israeli. The latter sought help from Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) who duly responded by punching the Egyptian in the face. Consequently, the Egyptian fell flat on his face and died. The next day when Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) was passing again from the same path, he saw the same Israeli fighting with another man. On spotting Hazrat Moosa (a.s.), again he sought help from the latter. Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) reprimanded him saying, ‘You look like a chronic combatant.’ Yet, Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) stepped forward to help him but he misunderstood that he (a.s.) was going to attack him (Israeli). On seeing this advancement, he remarked, ‘O Moosa! Will you kill me today like you killed the Egyptian yesterday?’ On hearing this, the Egyptian realised instantly that it was Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) who had killed the Egyptian the other day. When the word spread, Firaun’s police set out to arrest him. But divine mercy once again engulfed Hazrat Moosa (a.s.). The treasurer of Firaun, who already believed in Allah’s Prophet, albeit in a concealed manner, immediately went to Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) and informed him that ‘this nation (Egyptians) will slay you. I advise you to leave this country immediately.’

THE MARRIAGE OF HAZRAT MOOSA (A.S.)

Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) secretively escaped from Egypt and away from the eyes of the people. When he turned towards Madyan, and was not knowing its route, he said to himself, ‘Perhaps my Lord will guide me.’ (After a journey of a few days), when he reached (while he was hungry and thirsty) the city of Madyan at its well (which was outside the city), he saw a crowd of people who were making their animals drink from the well water. Behind them were two young girls who were with their herd, waiting for their turn. Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) enquired, ‘Why are you standing over here?’ They replied, ‘Till all the shepherds don’t finish with quenching their herds, we cannot give water to our animals and our father (Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.)) is a very old man. On this, Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) came near the well and took their bucket from them. Everyone moved aside. He drew water from the well, gave water to their animals and then went and sat on in the shade of a tree. (For details, refer to Surah Qasas, verse 22 onwards).

THE METHOD OF PROPHETS’ SUPPLICATION IN THE STATE OF HUNGER
As Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) was starving for quite a few days, the intensity of hunger pangs made him listless. He supplicated,

"O Lord! I am in need of the goodness that You have sent on me."

(Qasas: 24)

Hardly a few moments had lapsed when one of the two girls who had gone to their house, returned, her gaze down on account of modesty, and said to Hazrat Moosa (a.s.), "My father has called you to reward you for the trouble that you took for us." Finally, when Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) came to him (Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.)) and related his condition for him, the latter pacified him, saying, "Don’t worry. You have gained reprieve from the clutches of the oppressors (because Firaon’s regime did not extend to the city of Madyan."

One of the daughters of Hazrat Shoaib suggested, "Father, employ him for he is strong as well as trustworthy." Hazrat Shoaib (a.s.) asked surprisingly, "You have witnessed his strength at the well. But how can you vouch for his honesty and trustworthiness?" The daughter replied, "When he started coming towards our house, he said: ‘I am walking ahead and you walk behind me and you guide me towards your home. We are from that household where the males do not look at the females."

What has happened to our sense of honour that we do not consider as unlawful to look at Na-mehram women and over and above this, we set free our female members to be viewed by others!! On the contrary we claim: Our intention is pure. There is no need for any veil (hijab). After committing such sins, can we really call ourselves as followers of Prophets (a.s.)?

Hazrat Shoaib said to Hazrat Moosa (a.s.), ‘It is my desire that I get you married with one of my daughters (Safura) on the condition that for eight years you will tend my cattle. If you wish you can stay with me for ten years’. Hazrat Moosa (a.s.) accepted the offer and married Safura. For eight years, he tended Hazrat Shoaib’s (a.s.) cattle, as per the latter’s condition.

He further writes: A group was present near Mohammed bin Abdullah, when Jafar bin Mohammed (a.s.) arrived, and the people welcomed him with a lot of respect. Then Imam (a.s.) enquired about their conversation. They replied:
We have decided to pay allegiance to Mohammed bin Abdullah, who is the Promised Mahdi.’ Imam (a.s.) warned: ‘Refrain from this action, because the time of Mahdi’s appearance has not arrived, and Mohammed is not the Mahdi’.
(Ibid, p. 141)

DE’BAL’S COUPLET REGARDING MAHDI (A.T.F.S.)

De’bal, the poet of Ahle Bayt (a.s.) recited his famous couplets in the presence of Imam Reza (a.s.) and in the end, he recited the following verse:

"The reappearance of the Imam is certain and imminent
He will rise on Allah’s Name and (His) blessings."

Hearing this, Imam Reza (a.s.) started weeping and exclaimed

‘(O De’bal) Ruhul Qudus has spoken through your tongue! Do you know that Imam?’ De’bal replied, ‘No. But I have heard that a person from your progeny will bring about a revolution, and will fill this earth with justice and equity. Imam (a.s.) prophesied, ‘After me, my son Mohammed (a.s.) will be the Imam, and after him, his son Ali (a.s.) will be the Imam and after Ali (a.s.) his son Hasan (a.s.) will gain Imamat. After Hasan (a.s.), his son Hujjat, the Qaem (a.t.f.s.), shall gain this prestigious station. He shall be in occultation and awaiting his reappearance is necessary. And when he will reappear it is necessary to obey and follow him. He is the person who will fill the earth with justice and equity. The time of his reappearance is not fixed, and it is narrated by my forefathers that his reappearance will be sudden.’

(Yanaabi-ul-Mawaddah, vol. 2, p. 197)

These types of incidents and witnesses are found in many historical books. If one wants to know about this in detail he should refer to such books.

PSEUDO-MAHDIS

This is another subject, which only serves to establish the veracity and authenticity of Mahdaviyat. It is an accepted fact that from the beginning of Islam there have been several pseudo-Mahdis, both claimants as well as the ascribed ones. To make it sufficiently clear for the readers we have mentioned a few:

A group of Muslims considered Mohammed Ibn Hanafiya to be an Imam and the Mahdi. They claimed that he would disappear in a mountain named Razwa and would reappear from the same place and fill the earth with justice and equity."
(Al Melal wa Nehal by Shahrastaani, vol. 2, p. 242, Feraqush Shia by Nawbakhti, p. 27)

A group of the Jaroodiya sect considers Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Hasan to be the Mahdi and await his reappearance.
(Al-Melal wa al-Nehal, vol. 1, p. 256, Feraqush Shia, p. 62)

The Naadoosiya sect took Imam Jafar-e-Sadiq (a.s.) to be the Mahdi. According to them, Imam Sadiq (a.s.) is alive and is in occultation.
(Al-Melal wa al-Nehal, vol. 1, p. 273,
Feraqush Shia, p. 67)

The Waaqefiyyah considered Imam Moosa bin Jafar (a.s.) to be alive and in occultation. They believed that after reappearing, Imam would fill the earth with justice and equity.
(Al-Melal wa al-Nehal, vol. 1, p. 278,
Feraqush Shia, p. 80-83)

The Ismaailis believe that Ismail bin Jafar al-Sadiq (a.s.) has not died, but due to dissimulation (taqaiyya), he is said to have died.
(Al-Melal wa al-Nehal, vol. 1, p. 279,
Feraqush Shia, p. 67)

The Baaqeriyah sect took Imam Baqir (a.s.) as the Promised Mahdi.

The Mohammadia sect believed that after Imam Ali Naqi (a.s.), his son Mohammed bin Ali, is the Imam and they considered him to be alive although he had died during his father’s time.

The Jawaaziyyah claimed that Hazrat Hujjat ibn al-Hasan has a son and he is the Promised Mahdi.
(Kitab Tanbeehat al-Jaleeyah fi Kashfe Asraaril Bateneeyah, by Mohammed Karim Khurasani, Najaf, 1351 A.H., p. 40-42)

A sect of the Haashemiyyah believe that Abdullah ibn Harbe Kindi is the Imam and considered him to be alive and in occultation. The members of this sect are awaiting his reappearance.
(Al-Melal wa al-Nehal, vol. 1, p. 245)

A group of Mubarakia considered Mohammed Ibn Ismail as the Imam who is alive and in occultation.
(Al-Mehal wa al-Nehal, vol. 1, p. 279)

The Yazidiya sect believed that Yazid (l.a.) had ascended to the skies, and would come back and fill the earth with justice and equity.
(Kitabul Yazidiya compiled by Saduqul al-Damluji, printed at Mosil, 1368 A.H., p. 167)

The Ismailias believed that those traditions, which had come for Mahdi actually pertain to Mohammed bin Abdullah who has the title of al-Mahdi and rules Egypt and the western countries. These people ascribe a false tradition to the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.), wherein he supposedly said,
‘In 300 years, the sun will rise from the west’.
(Tarikhe Rauzat al-Safa, Tehran, vol. 4, p. 181)

One of the groups of the Imamiya sect believed that Imam Hasan Askari (a.s.) was alive and was in fact the Qaim. They claimed that he was in occultation, and would reappear later to establish justice and equity on the earth. Another group was of the opinion that Imam Hasan Askari (a.s.) had already died but would be made alive once again, and bring the revolution, as Qaim means to stand after death.
(Al Melal wa al-Nehal, vol. 1, p. 284,
Feraqush Shia p. 96, 97)

The Qaraameta considered Mohammed bin Ismail to be the Promised Mahdi. They believed that he was alive and was living in a Roman kingdom.
(Kitabul Mahdiya fi al-Islam, p. 170, Feraqush Shia, p. 72)

The Abi Muslimiya sect considered Abu Muslim Khurasani to be the Imam and Qaim.
(Feraqush Shia, p. 47)

One group believed Imam Hasan Askari (a.s.) to be Mahdi. They claimed that after dying he had become alive once again and was currently living in occultation. He would reappear later and fill the earth with justice and equity.

The above mentioned names are of those people who were considered to be the promised Mahdi by their group of ignorant followers, years after the demise of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.). But now most of those sects are extinct and are confined to books of history. From that era till the current one, we find many others from different cities who have introduced themselves as the promised Mahdi. Intense battles took place and a lot of blood was shed to establish their claims. Details of these conflicts can be found in the book ‘Mahdi Ibtedaa-e-Islam se Terhavi Sadi Tak’, ‘Al Mahdiya fi al-Islam’ and other historical books dealing with the topic of Mahdi.

FABRICATED TRADITIONS

It is indeed tragic that followers of the some of the claimants fabricated a large number of traditions to support the claims of their leaders. Later these fabricated traditions gradually found their way in the books of traditions. Therefore, even today, one can find numerous fabricated traditions that were coined to substantiate the claims of pseudo-Mahdis. The below-mentioned tradition is a good illustration of such fabricated traditions.

The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said:

"The world will not come to an end unless Allah sends a person from my Ahle Bayt whose name shall be the same as my name, and whose father’s name is akin to my father’s name. He will fill the earth with justice and equity as it would be fraught with injustice and oppression."

(Fusulul Mohimmma, pg. 27)

In this tradition, the name of Mahdi’s father is supposedly the same as the name of Prophet’s (s.a.w.s.) father viz. Abdullah. This tradition contradicts many other authentic traditions in which the name of Imam’s (a.s.) father is said to be ‘Hasan’.

In ablutions, it is essential that, after niyyat, one adheres to its proper sequence. That is, he must first wash the face, then the right hand followed by the left hand. After that, he should do masah (i.e. wiping of front portion of head and the upper portion of the feet).

1. Lengthwise, it is obligatory to wash the face from the hairline at the top of the forehead, down to the chin. Breadth-wise, one must wash the area of the face covered by stretching the thumb and middle finger.
2. Then, one must wash the right hand from the elbow up to the fingertips. One must wash from the elbow with the downward motion and should ensure each and every part of the hand is moistened from the elbow to the fingertips, both on the upper as well as the lower side.

   After washing the right hand, the left hand must be washed likewise.

3. Then one must perform the masah, by wiping the front portion of the head with the moisture from the water of the wuzu.
4. It is not necessary that the masah should be on the scalp i.e. skin of head, it can also be done on the hair of the front portion. If the hair is long, then in this condition, he should do masah on the roots of hair or he should part the hair and do masah on the scalp.
5. After the masah of the head, with the moisture remaining in the hand, one must do masah of the outward portion of the feet from the tip of the toes to the ankles with the palms. It is preferable that it should be wiped right up to the joint.
6. Performing wuzu with usurped water or with water about which it is not known whether or not its owner is agreeable for it to be used, is unlawful and void.
7. Performing wuzu with the water of the pools of madrasas, inns, hotels, etc. by persons who are not staying there is valid in case other persons who are not staying there also usually perform wuzu with that water.
8. If a place on the body other than the limbs on which wuzu is performed is impure, the wuzu is in order. But to perform namaz, it is necessary to make that place paak.
9. If there is so much gap between the acts of wuzu that when the person wishes to wash or wipe a place, the wetness of the place already washed or wiped by him has dried up, his wuzu will be void.
10. It is unlawful to touch the words of Holy Quran with any part of one’s body without performing wuzu – however, there is no harm in touching, its translation in any language without performing wuzu.
11. One should not touch without wuzu, the names of Allah, regardless of the language in which they may have been written.
12. If a person performs wuzu or ghusl before the time for prayers in order to be in a state of purity, his wuzu/ghusl is in order.
13. Wuzu becomes void and invalid on account of the following things:
    • passing urine or stool or gas
    • sleep on account of which one’s eyes do not see and ears do not hear
    • actions on account of which, a person loses his senses, e.g. insanity, intoxication, unconsciousness. And all those actions for which ghusl becomes obligatory; like janaabat, menses (Istehaza), etc.
14. If there is an open wound, or a fractured bone, on which wuzu has to be performed, and the use of water is not harmful, one should perform wuzu in the usual manner. If the wound or fractured bone has been dressed, and is on the part of the body where water for wuzu is to come in contact, then one can perform Wuzu-e-Jabira, if reopening the dressing and pouring water on the wound is harmful. Wuzu-e-Jabira means to place a pure piece of cloth on the wound and draw a wet hand on the cloth. However, the person must first wash the portion adjacent to the wound in the usual manner.

OBLIGATORY BATHS (GHUSL)

1. There are seven occasions when ghusl becomes obligatory. Of these, four are for both, men as well as women viz.
   • Ghusl-e-Janaabat,
   • ghusl to fulfill a vow (nazr)
   • ghusl for the corpse (mayyat)
   • ghusl for the person who touches the corpse (mas-e-mayyat).

   The remaining 3 kinds of ghusl are only for women.

   • Ghusl-e-Hayz
   • Ghusl-e-Nifaas
   • Ghusl-e-Istehaazaa
2. A person becomes unclean (mujnib) due to 2 reasons:
   • Sexual intercourse
   • Discharge of semen in a state of sleep or otherwise.
3. The following five things are unlawful for an unclean person (mujnib):
   • To touch with any part of one’s body the writing of the Holy Quran, names of Almighty Allah, Prophets and Imams (a.s.)
   • Entering Masjidul Haraam (Khaana-e-Ka’ba) and Masjidun Nabi (in Medina) although it may simply be entering from one gate and exiting from the other.
   • To stay in all other mosques and the shrines of the Holy Imams (a.s.). However, there is no harm if a person simply enters through one gate and goes out of another.
   • To go and place something in the masjid.
   • To recite verses of the Holy Quran which make prostration obligatory – viz. (i) 32:15, (ii) 41:38, (iii) 53:63, (iv) 96:19.
4. Ghusl-e-Janaabat by itself is recommended (mustahhab), but becomes obligatory (wajib) for praying namaz or other acts of worship where cleanliness (tahaarat) is a condition.
5. If one performs Ghusl-e-Janaabat, then there is no need to perform wuzu for offering prayers (namaz).
6. The period of menses is from 3 days up to 10 days.
7. During menstruation, a woman should abandon namaz as well as fasting. After she has become pure, it is not wajib for her to offer the namaz lapsed during the period of menses. However she should observe the obligatory fasts missed by her during this period. All those acts, which are unlawful for a mujnib, are unlawful for a haaizah. Having intercourse during menses is unlawful
8. Divorce during menses is not valid.
9. After post-menses purity, it is obligatory for her to perform ghusl for namaz and other acts of worship that should be performed with wuzu, ghusl or tayammum.
10. The initial discharge of blood from the body of a woman, on the delivery of the child, is termed as Nifaas. It is possible that the blood of Nifaas is not discharged for more than a moment, but it doesn’t exceed 10 days. During the period of Nifaas, the order (ahkaam) for women is the same as during Haiz.
11. If a person (man or woman) brings any part of his/her body in contact with, or touches, the corpse, which has become cold, and has not yet been bathed, then Ghusl-e-Mas-e-Mayyat becomes obligatory on him/her for all acts of worship where cleanliness is a condition
12. Ghusl-e-Mase Mayyat becomes obligatory even on account of touching the corpse of a dead child or even a stillborn child, who has completed four months.

METHOD OF PERFORMING GHUSL

1. There are two methods of performing Ghusl,
   • Sequence bath (Ghusl-e-Tartibi),
   • Immersion bath (Ghusl-e-Irtemaasi).

   GHUSL-E-TARTIBI
   After making intention a person should first wash his head and neck, then wash his right side of the body and then the left side. He should be sure that his body has been washed entirely. While washing one side he should also include some portion of the other side with it.

   GHUSL-E-IRTEMASI
   It is necessary that the entire body should be suspended in water even if it is for a moment. In case a person dives in water with the intention of Ghusl-e-Irtemaasi and his feet touches the ground, then it is obligatory upon him to lift his feet momentarily.

2. While performing Ghusl it is necessary that the entire body is clean and pure of najasat.
   If while performing ghusl a part of body, however small it may be, remains unwashed then the ghusl is batil (invalid). But it is not obligatory to wash the inside of the nose or ears and other places, which are reckoned to be the interior of the body.
3. Performing Ghusl with usurped water or at an usurped placed makes the ghusl (baatil) void. If a person uses the public bath with the intention of deferring payment to its owner or to avoid paying the charges completely or to pay the charges from money acquired illegally, then his ghusl will be void.
4. If a person has to perform more than one obligatory (wajib) ghusl, then he can perform one ghusl with multiple intentions (Niyyat).

“One who weds his daughter to a drunkard is like the one who has severed relations with her”.

(Wasaaelush Shia, vol. 20, p. 79,
Hadis No. 25081, New edition.)

According to doctors, liquor is the root of all ills. It ruins and destroys the body to such an extent that a day comes when it destroys his very existence. We mention hereunder some of the harmful effects of intoxicants like liquor on the generations to follow.

The advancement of science has proved beyond doubt that liquor and similar intoxicants have a fatal effect on the child being nurtured in the womb of the mother. After intercourse, the liquor passing through the mother’s womb enters in to the embryo (foetus) and could possibly lead to the birth of a defective child or even miscarriage. Recent scientific breakthroughs have established that liquor intake before or during pregnancy could result in a stillborn.

The great scientist of this era, Professor Nicolai, who has conducted extensive research on the ill-effects of liquor, has proved that in less than a month, the sexual hormones of a drunkard are affected because of alcohol intake, and this disorder is passed on to the children. Some times these bad effects are transferred through the ovule and/or mother’s milk. Its ill effects are evidently proved through practical experiments and studies and the parents who consume alcohol are definitely responsible for it. Similarly, fifty percent people who consume liquor regularly, fall prey to shaking palsy and shivering of body.

Heart trouble, shaking palsy, unconsciousness, epilepsy, insanity and sterility are but a few disorders that can be attributed directly to regular liquor intake. This is in addition to the decline in moral and ethical standards, which is more serious than all the above irregularities put together.

In the light of the above revelation, we can begin to realise the importance of the saying of Imam Sadiq (a.s.), who said:

“A woman habituated with drinking alcohol stands the risk of becoming infertile.”

One point should always be kept in mind – the diseases, which crop up by liquor intake, are generally transferred to the next generation as a legacy.

Salutations and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah, Hazrat Mohammed Mustafa (s.a.w.s.) and on his pure progeny, who, 1,400 years ago, while living amongst the ignorant Arabs, made the people aware of the destructive prowess of alcohol. They also taught us that prevention was always better than cure, and to this effect, they announced unlawful as buying, selling and preparing liquor and similar intoxicants, thereby protecting us from grievous loss. Without the benefits of experiments and laboratories, doctors and medicines, they have elaborated on various components of the human body, like heart, liver, digestive system, brain nerves, lungs, limbs and body organs and stated in detail, both the material and spiritual aspects of our actions.

“O you who believe! Intoxicants and game of chance and (sacrifice to) stones set up and (dividing by) arrows are only an uncleanness (and from) the Satan’s handiwork. Shun it therefore that you may be successful.”

(Surah Maidah: 90)

Now we shall elaborate on the adverse effects of liquor and other intoxicants, on the human body, from a medical viewpoint. Let us begin by discussing on foodstuffs (foods and beverages) that are prepared from alcohol.

1. Liquor has a very deadly effect on the whole body i.e. the body is completely ruined and becomes weak. So it is next to impossible to state all the diseases related to nerves, muscles, breath and intestines. It should suffice to say that these intoxicants are poisonous, and make the body organs useless.
2. When a person consumes liquor, then after it enters the mouth, it passes through the throat, windpipe, stomach and through the blood in the veins, it reaches the liver. Only 10% of it makes its exit from the kidneys while 90% remains inside the body, which in turn results in the following diseases:
3. Blood oozes out of the windpipe, ruining the liver. This is but the first stage of liquor addiction.
4. The liquor addict loses his appetite and his digestive system is ruined due to insufficient food intake, ultimately resulting in cancer.
5. Lack of vitamins A, B and B12 – leads to eye defects.
6. Heart gets weak, by which there is a fear of it stopping – resulting in consequent death.
7. Malfunctioning or non-functioning of the kidney.
8. Diseases like tuberculosis (TB) afflict the addict, because liquor reduces the food content in the body. As a result excess energy is destroyed. Moreover, the disastrous effects of liquor make the body extremely weak.
9. The liquor addict is afflicted with pneumonia, because liquor injures the wind-pipe and lungs.
10. Liquor also affects the brain. If the brain is seriously affected, blood oozes out from it, and results in death.
11. The part of the brain that controls the balance of the human body, stops functioning. Liquor results in disorder and disturbance in the brain, resulting in bodily imbalance. That is why we generally observe addicts unable to control their body, and walk staggeringly.
12. Liquor intake leads to shivering of the body in general, and parts of body like hands, legs and tongue in particular.
13. It affects speech, leading to stammering.
14. Eyesight is weakened and epilepsy attacks are common.
15. Sensitive and delicate organs get weakened and their functioning is hampered. Their cells get destroyed.
16. The whole body is ruined.

Over here we have stated only a few diseases and disorders, while in reality liquor is the root cause of every illness. The one and only one way of escaping from all these illnesses is to avoid liquor at all costs.