Living by the Sunnah:

Living by the Sunnah means following tha prophet Muhammad's example in all aspects of life including his teachings, actions and approvals. It encompasses both the external actions and internal morals and values the exemplified, serving as a guide for Muslims to strive for an ideal  life.

Purpose:

It is a way to honour the prophet's legacy and maintain his teachings of the Quran and provide a model for Muslims in every aspects of life.

Practical application of the Sunnah:

Daily practices:

This includes following his ways in prayer including specific supplications and positions, starting meals with "Bismillah" and ending with "Alhamdulillah" using the Islamic greeting Assalam o alaikum and showing kindness and mercy.

Ethical conduct:

The Sunnah emphasizes honesty compassion and kindness promoting good character and ethical behavior.

Social interactions:

It encourages promoting peace and goodwill in interactions with family neighbors and strangers. 

Learning and growth:

Continuously leaning about Islamic teachings and engaging in religious studies are important Aspects of living by the Sunnah.

Time management:

Being mindful of the value of time and prioritizing activities aligned with Islamic values is also encouraged. 

Seeing Muslims connected to and admiring their religion of Islam makes for a discomforting sight for some. Equality disturbing in the eyes of such people is the fact that many Muslims act upon the teachings of their faith despite all the widespread temptations in society. Amongst the methods employed to reduce the influence of Islam on Muslims is to distance then from religion in the name of religion itself. This can happen in various ways. One example  of this is the tactic used by the liberal scholars who are overawed by the west and praise it's culture. To turn people away from acting upon the Sunnah and recommended acts they claim: Because  people are becoming detached from religion, we are creating ease for them. By doing so, we are bringing people closer to the religion. As acting upon the Sunnah is difficult, we only speak about what is compulsory and necessary. We do not mention the importance of the Sunnah in matters of worship and other aspect of life.

There are two things to note in response to this flawed claim. The first is that if a person declares Sunnah act to be as important as a card Fard or Wajib, then he is mistaken. For example, eating and drinking whilst seated in Sunnah, offering the taraweeh Salah is Sunnah, the units of prayer that are offered before and after the Fard in Salah are Sunnah or optional except in the case of the witr. 

Encouraging people to act upon the Sunnah of the Prophet is significant from many aspects. The first point to understand is that the fundamental reason for a Muslim to act upon the Sunnah is because Allah Almighty gave the command to follow the Prophet. The Almighty stated:

                Say you, Beloved ; that people! If you love Allah, you should therefore obey me. 

Allah Almighty has also stated:

                 And follow the path of one who has turned to me. 

The Prophet turned to Allah Almighty to most. We should follow him without any restrictions, which includes following him an acts that are Fard, Wajib Sunnah and and Mustahab.

Allah Almighty declared the life of the prophet an excellent example. The Almighty states:

                Indeed, for you following the Messenger of Allah is best.

Just as the Fard and Wajib acts are a part of this perfect example, so too are the non Wajib acts of worship and dealings confected by the Prophet.

The third point to understand is that there is that there is great religious wisdom behind acting upon the Sunnah. This can be partially understood through the fact that in life, we not only carry out the tasks that are necessary, but we also do things that help us do the tasks that are necessary. For example, during our educational life, we also study books that are not part of the syllabus or curriculum. Similarly not only do we acquire skills that are necessary for our occupation, but we also learn skills related to other professions too. Likewise, to protect ourselves from a greater problem, we also avoid the things that are necessary our occupation, but we also learn skills related to other professions too. Likewise to protect ourselves from a greater problem, we also avoid the things that are a preface to it. For instance, we avoid going out in freezing condition without a jacket to protect ourselves from catching a cold. In terms of our worldly affairs, not only do we try to accomplish our main objective, but we also go the extra mile. 

The matter of Sunnah and Mustahab acts is similar. To understand this, reflect over the following examples. Have you ever heard of an individual who prays the 20 units of Taraweeh Salah but does not Pyar Isha. 

Human nature dictates that a person who pays attention to small things will pay extra attention to related things that are of greater in importance. It is not the case that someone who avoids doubtful things that are definitively haram. This wisdom has been alluded to in the Hadith that states a person grazing his animals near the field of the king will finds his animals entering the field. Hence, it is safer to avoid even the boundary of such a thing lest one falls into that which is actually forbidden. Adopting this careful approach will act as a barrier whereby something unprohibited prevents you from accessing that which is prohibited.

At times, it is fascinating how actions that are optional and Mustahab act as a more effective barrier stopping sins than a barrier premised on actions that are necessary. For example a person may wear a turban, which is a Sunnah of the Prophet.

Specific units (Rakaat) are Fard in Salah, but the Sunnahs in the beginning and end enhance one's focus in Salah and increase closeness to Allah Almighty. Similarly, Hajj is Fard, but performing Sunnah Umrahs throughout life immerse you in divine love. 

Human nature dictates that a person who pays attention to small things will pay extra attention to related things that are of greater importance. It is not the case that someone who avoids doubtful things u reluctantly commits things that are definitely Haram. This wisdom has been alluded to in the Hadith that states a person grazing his animals near the field. Hence, it is safer to avoid even the boundary of such a thing lest one falls into that which is actually forbidden. Adopting this careful approach will act as a barrier whereby something unprohibited prevents you from accessing that which is prohibited.

At times it is fascinating how actions that are optional and Mustahab act as a more effective barrier stopping sins than a barrier permised on actions that are necessary. For example, a person may wear a turban- which is Sunnah of the Prophet or have a shawl over his head- which is the custom of the pious people. Such a person will not go to the the pub wearing this attire as it will stop him from doing so. Even if he was to go, he would first leave this Sunnah by changing into shirt and trousers or some other clothing and then go.  

Sunnah in our life:

Sunnah is the character of the Prophet Muhammad ( S.A.W) also defined his " traditions and practices". This lifestyle is upheld as the ideal pattern of life for the entire Islamic community. Sunnah is the second foundation of Islamic law,as well as the guide for all Muslims as they strive to live an ideal life.

Sunnah in simple word:

The word Sunnah is an Arabic word meaning "tradition" or " way". For Muslims, Sunnah means " the way of the Prophet". Sunnites try to follow his words, actions and teachings. Muslim scholars learn about the Sunnah by studying thousand of stories about Muhammad, his family and his family, and hua first fellow.

Explanation of the Sunnah: 

Sunnah is the body of traditions and practices of the Islamic prophet Muhammad that constitute a model for Muslims to follow. The Sunnah is what all the Muslims of Muhammad's time supposedly saw, followed and passed on to the next generation.

Prophet live his life:

Muhammad was orphaned and brought up by his uncle, Abu Talib. Muhammad married Khadija. Following the night of power. Also known as Laylat al- Qadr. Muhammad began preaching which made the leaders of Makkah angry.

Types of Sunnah :

The three types of Sunnah are: 

1. Sunnah Qawaliyyah ( saying's):

Sunnah Qawaliyyah refers to the Prophet Muhammad's words and teachings, often documented as Hadith.

2. Sunnah Filiyyah ( actions):

Sunnah Filiyyah encompasses his actions, both religious and worldly.

3. Sunnah Taqririyah(approvals).

Sunnah Taqririyah represents his silent or explicit approval of actions performed by his companions.

Practice Sunnah in daily life:

1. Greeting with Salam.
2. Smiling at others.
3. Being truthful.
4. Avoiding gossips 
5. Being humble 
6. Keeping promises.
7. Being patient.
8. Helping others.

Function of Sunnah:

Sunnah hold a significant place in Islam. It refers to the way of life and actions practiced by Prophet Muhammad, who serves as a role model for Muslims. Sunnah teaches us how to live a good righteous life according to the teachings of our faith.

Why do Muslims do Sunnah:

For Muslims, male circumcision is preformed for religious reasons, mainly to follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad. Moreover there are attempts to label it as a contributor to cleanliness/personal hygiene. These are done largely to grant the practice scientific legitimacy and a moral foundation.

Importance Sunnah in Islam:

Some key sunnahs include eating with the right hand, sitting to eat and drink, washing hands before eating, sleeping on the right side facing Qiblah, putting the right limb in clothes first, and using a miswak toothstick. Following the Sunnahs of the Prophet is encouraged to gain spiritual rewards.

 Importance and benefits of Sunnah:

Specific units (Rakaat are Fard in Salah, but the Sunnahs in the beginning and end enhance one's focus in Salah and increase closeness to Allah Almighty . Similarly Hajj is fard, but preforming Sunnah Umrahs throughout life immerse you in divine love.

Is Sunnah good or bad:

Whether good or bad, approved or disapproved.....a way that has been instituted or pursued by former people and has become one pursued by those after them." As lane noted, a conduct of life may be a praiseworthy way of life or a blameworthy way of life. 

Duties towards Sunnah:

As a Muslims, it is our duty to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet and give da'wah especially on sensitive issues, in a way that is authentic and beautiful.

How many Sunnah are there:

" Allah will build a house in heaven for whoever  is dilligent in observing 12 Sunnah Rakat: 4 Rakat before and 2 after the Zhuhr (Midday) Prayer, 2 after the Maghrib (Sunset 

Prayer), 2 after the Isha (Evening) prayer and 2 before the Fajr (Dawn) prayer."

Sunnah of Allah:

Linguistically, Sunnah means tha way therefore, the Sunnah of Allah is his way. The destruction by earthquake or hurricanes and tornadoes, or other catastrophes is one of Allah's Sunnah in this planet Earth. He afflicts whichever country he wishes. 

Sunnah way of eating:

• Applying 1/3 rule when eating. We consume food and drink everyday as it is vital to our survival.
• Smiling to others.
• Say good or stay silent.
• Sitting when eating and drinking.
• Always seek forgiveness from Allah.

How many meals is Sunnah:

The Prophet Muhammad's peace be upon him, recommendations and behavior lend support to modern medical studies in the area of nutrition as in many others. He would eat no more than two meals and ensure that one of the meals should consist of light food.

Significance of Sunnah in Islam:

The prophet was the community's political and spiritual leader when the Islamic commonwealth was established in Madina in 622 AD. Additionally matters were presented before him for decision making because he was the states highest court. The Quran served as the basis for these decisions. How ever, when the Quran was silent or additional interpretation was needed, the prophet took a ratiocination based stance. Nonetheless in Islam in Islam the term Sunnah refers to the sayings, deeds, and practices of Prophet Muhammad.  These are regarded as examples for Muslims to follow and serve as a second source of Islamic law in addition to the Quran. They offer instructions on how to live a moral life by imitating the prophets conduct in all facets of daily life, from critical religious rites to even small ones like social and individual interactions.

Importance of Sunnah in interpretation and legislation:

In the Quran, the Holy prophets application of the holy spirit is acknowledged: ....and whatever the Messenger gives you, accept it, and whatever he forbids you, abstain. The Quran is the source of the Sunnahs authority but the Sunnah also helps to make clear and reinforce the framework of Islamic law. The interdependence of the two sources makes it impossible to separate them. Here are some examples that show how the Holy Prophets Sunnah encompasses a wide range of topics or facets of life and is application in legislation.

• Confirmation of the Quranic text:

Islam has strongly emphasized knowledge acquisition. Allah opens the pain of paradise to one who takes a step on the path of the acquisition of knowledge. The Islamic faith also require knowledge to be used for the good of others after it has been obtained. However, in Islam, "Sunnah" is regarded as a means of validating and elucidating the text of the Quran. It serves as a real world illustration of how to apply the principles stated in the Quran through the teachings and deeds of the Prophet Muhammad.

Islamic law states that the Quran establishes fixed share for every type of successor based on their kinship. It is not possible to negotiable these shares. Sons often receive twice as much as daughters, the spouse gets half of the inheritance and a quarter if they have children. Prophet Muhammad therefore emphasized the significance of equitably allocated these Faraid (mandates shares) entitled to them, in other words individuals referred to as heirs in the Quran ought to get their allotted share of the inheritance.

• Implementation of legal rulings:

  The Prophet's entire life served as an exposition of Islamic law. The PBUH carried out all of Allah's lawful directives in his legislation. For instance, the taking of Riba (interest) is forbidden in Islam. Anas ibn Malik claims that the Holy Prophet stated:

"When one of you grants a loan, and the borrower offers him a dish, he should not accept it, and if the borrower offers a ride on an animal, he should not ride unless the two of them have been previously accustomed to exchanging such favours mutually." Furthermore the prophet said, may curse the receiver and the payer of interest, the one who records it and the two witnesses to the transaction and said: " They are all alike."

• Addressing unmentioned issues:

Sunnah is an approach to resolving unspoken legislation difficulties. In Islam, the Sunnah is an essential source of law that addresses matters not specifically addressed in the Quran. Offering direction on various topics and acting as a separate source for decision that might not b mentioned in the sacred text enhances the Quran. The fundamental ideas of shariah provide us with a strong basis for assisting in the establishment of social justice and fairness  within the contemporary financial system, even thought there were no computerized stock markets 1400 years ago. It offers good flexibility and sound fundamentals. 

• Exemplary declarations of the Holy Quran:

Additionally, the Sunnah is a means of expressing the Holy Qurans exemplary pronouncements. As a living interpretation of the teachings of the Quran. Sunnah is closely related to it. For instance, " ijtihad in Islamic teachings refers to the diligent  work  of a qualified scholar who uses their in depth knowledge of the religious texts and jurisprudential principles to interpret Islamic law on a topic not specifically covered in the Quran and Hadith in order to reach a legal conclusion. "Thus we have made you're (Muslim) a Wasat (just) (and the best) nation, that you be witnesses over mankind." Thus it was put into practice when the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sent Muadh to Yemen as governor and instructed .him to make Decisions in response. Muadh said he would decide based on the Quran and if it contained no instruction the Sunnah. Muadh said he would exercise his best judgement if neither provided direction. Then, the prophet gave thanks to Allah for granting Muadh instructed to make decisions. In response, Muadh said he would decide based on the Quran and if it contained no instruction, the Sunnah Muadh said he would exercise his best judgement if neither provided direction. Then the prophet gave thanks to Allah for granting Muadh this capacity .

• Independent source of legislation:

Moreover Sunnah is regarded as an independent source of Islamic law, which means that it can render legal decisions on topics in which the Quran is silent. Nonetheless Sunnah can offer a legal verdict based on the prophet Muhammad actions in comparable situations when the Quran does not explicitly address the matter. For instance , zakat Al fatr laws and their verdicts were derived independently from the Sunnah. Additionally the Quran forbids marrying a woman and her maternal or paternal aunt at the same time, although it simply forbids marrying two sisters at the same time. Additionally the Sunnah outlines the precise steps to take during wudu, such as washing the face hands and feet in a particular way,even though  the Quran specifies the necessity of ablution before prayer. Therefore، the Sunnah of the Prophet is considered the independent source of legislation.

• Specification of General rule:

Last the Sunnah is a list of general guideline outlined in Islamic law. It serves as a primary source for establishing legal concepts and clarifies and elaborates on Quranic teachings. In this way, the Sunnah clarifies and adds to the more general rules found in the Quran. Sunnah's description of general rule was well exemplified by the prophet establishment of the Islamic political system, which is marked by a theocratic government model. This model gained power from divine direction through the Holy Quran and the prophet's own actions. Moreover The messenger of Allah made Zakat al-Fitr obligatory on every Muslim, young or old, free or slave to give one "saa" or barley to purity  the fasting person from indecent speech and deeds and as food for the poor narrated by ibn Umar. Therefore the Sunnah is crucial in interpretation and legislation in Islamic countries.

Benefits of living by Sunnah:

Reward and protection:

Adhering to the Sunnah is a way to express love for the Prophet and is rewarded by Allah. 

Guidance and stability:

Following the Sunnah provides guidance and stability in a word of challenges and uncertainties.

Improved spiritual connection:

If helps Muslims cultivate a deeper connection with Allah and sense of purpose and direction in life.

Stranger relationship:

Living by the Sunnah fosters stronger relationships and a sense of community.

Conclusion:

The Sunnah, a vital supplement to the Quran by offering comprehensive practices and explanations of it's principles, is regarded in Islamic jurisprudence as a crucial source of interpretation and legislation. It essentially clarifies how to apply Quranic teachings in daily life through the sayings and actions of the prophet Muhammad, thereby forming the foundation for Islamic law alongside the Quran itself. Furthermore, in order to facilitate accurate interpretation the Sunnah frequently offers background information and particular instances of how the Prophet Muhammad interpreted and responded to Quranic verses that are open to interpretation, creating legal precedent addressing unspoken issues, and setting a moral example.