Savor & Soul: Cooking with Islamic Wisdom

  Surah Al-Haaqqah (38–52) 🌿 English Translation (38–52) 38. So I swear by what you see, 39. And by what you do not see, 40. Indeed, this is the word of a noble Messenger. 41. And it is not the word of a poet — little do you believe. 42. Nor is it the word of a soothsayer — little do you remember. 43. It is a revelation from the Lord of the worlds. 44. And if he (Muhammad ﷺ) had made up about Us some sayings, 45. We would have seized him by the right hand, 46. Then We would have cut from him the aorta, 47. And none of you could have prevented it from him. 48. Indeed, it is a reminder for the righteous. 49. And indeed, We know that among you are deniers. 50. And indeed, it will be a cause of regret for the disbelievers. 51. And indeed, it is the absolute truth. 52. So glorify the Name of your Lord, the Most Great. 📖 Explanation (Tafsir Summary) These final verses strongly defend the truth of the Qur’an: Allah swears by everything seen and unseen — showing univer...

  Surah Al-Haaqqah (25–37) 📖 Translation (25–37) 25. But as for the one who is given his record in his left hand, he will say, “Oh, I wish I had not been given my record, 26. And had not known what my account is. 27. Oh, I wish it had been the end (death). 28. My wealth has not benefited me. 29. My authority has gone away from me.” 30. (It will be said), “Seize him and shackle him, 31. Then drive him into the Hellfire. 32. Then fasten him in a chain whose length is seventy cubits. 33. Indeed, he did not believe in Allah, the Most Great, 34. Nor did he encourage the feeding of the poor. 35. So there is no friend for him here this Day, 36. Nor any food except from the discharge of wounds, 37. None will eat it except the sinners.” 🔥 Explanation (Tafsir Overview) These verses describe the tragic state of the one who receives their book of deeds in the left hand — a symbol of failure. The person is overwhelmed with regret. They wish they had never seen their record. ...

  Surah Al-Haaqqah (13–24) 📖 Explanation (Tafsir Overview) Verses 13–16: These verses describe the terrifying beginning of the Day of Judgment. The Trumpet will be blown once, and the entire universe will collapse. Mountains — symbols of strength — will be crushed. Even the sky will split open. This shows that nothing in creation is permanent except Allah. Verse 17: Eight angels will carry the Throne of Allah. This highlights the عظمت (majesty) and seriousness of that Day. Verse 18: Every human will stand before Allah. No secret, no hidden sin, no private action will remain concealed. Verses 19–24: The successful believer receives their book of deeds in the right hand. They rejoice and proudly invite others to read their record. They had certainty in accountability during their worldly life. As a result, they are rewarded with a pleasant life in a high Garden (Jannah), where blessings are close and easy to enjoy. 🌿 Description Surah Al-Haaqqah verses 13–24 paint a powe...

Surah Al-Haaqqah (1–12) 🌿 English Translation (1–12) 1. The Inevitable Reality. 2. What is the Inevitable Reality? 3. And what will make you know what the Inevitable Reality is? 4. Thamud and ‘Aad denied the Striking Calamity. 5. So as for Thamud, they were destroyed by the overpowering blast. 6. And as for ‘Aad, they were destroyed by a furious, bitter wind, 7. which Allah imposed upon them for seven nights and eight days in succession; you would see them fallen like hollow trunks of palm trees. 8. Do you see any of them remaining? 9. Pharaoh, those before him, and the overturned cities committed sin. 10. They disobeyed the Messenger of their Lord, so He seized them with a severe seizure. 11. When the water overflowed, We carried you in the sailing ship, 12. so that We might make it a reminder for you and that a conscious ear would understand it. 📖 Explanation (Tafsir Overview) Verses 1–3: Allah emphasizes the certainty and عظمت of the Day of Judgment. The repetition ...

Surah Al-Baqarah 261–264 English Translation Verse 261 The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed that grows seven ears; in every ear are a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies the reward for whom He wills. And Allah is All-Encompassing and All-Knowing. Verse 262 Those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah and then do not follow their charity with reminders of generosity or hurt will have their reward with their Lord. They will have no fear, nor will they grieve. Verse 263 Kind speech and forgiveness are better than charity followed by hurt. And Allah is Free of need and Most Forbearing. Verse 264 O believers! Do not invalidate your charity with reminders of generosity or hurt, like those who spend their wealth to be seen by people and do not truly believe in Allah and the Last Day. Their example is like a smooth rock covered with dust; when heavy rain falls, it leaves it bare. They gain nothing from what they earned. And Allah does not ...

  Surah Al‑Humazah Translation (Simple English) Woe to every backbiter and slanderer, Who collects wealth and keeps counting it. Thinking that his wealth will make him live forever. No! He will surely be thrown into the Crusher (Hellfire). And what will make you know what the Crusher is? It is the Fire of Allah, intensely kindled, Which rises over the hearts. Indeed, it will be closed down upon them, In extended columns. What is Backbiting According to the Hadiths In authentic hadiths, backbiting (Gheebah) is when you mention something about your brother or sister behind their back that they would dislike, even if it is true. If the statement is false, then it becomes slander (buhtan) which is even worse. The Prophet ﷺ warned that: Speaking about others in a harmful way damages hearts and society. Spreading people’s faults, mocking, or insulting them falls under serious sins. A person who spreads gossip and creates conflict between people is strongly condemned. Bac...

Surah Al-Baqarah 67–72 English Translation 2:67 And (remember) when Moses said to his people, “Indeed, Allah commands you to slaughter a cow.” They said, “Are you making fun of us?” He said, “I seek refuge in Allah from being among the ignorant.” 2:68 They said, “Call upon your Lord for us to clarify what kind it is.” He said, “He says: It is a cow neither old nor very young, but of middle age. So do what you are commanded.” 2:69 They said, “Call upon your Lord to show us its color.” He said, “He says: It is a yellow cow, bright in color, pleasing to those who look at it.” 2:70 They said, “Call upon your Lord to make clear to us what it is, for all cows seem alike to us. And indeed, if Allah wills, we will be guided.” 2:71 He said, “He says: It is a cow not trained to plow the earth or water the fields, sound and without any blemish.” They said, “Now you have brought the truth.” So they slaughtered it, though they were almost not going to do it. 2:72 And (remember) when yo...

Bal‘am bin Ba‘ura (بلعم بن باعوراء) 🌿 Introduction Bal‘am bin Ba‘ura is a well-known figure mentioned by many classical Islamic scholars in the explanation of Surah Al-A‘raf (7:175-176) in the Qur’an. Though his name is not directly mentioned in the Qur’an, mufassireen like Ibn Kathir and Ibn Abbas relate that these verses refer to a man who was granted knowledge and signs from Allah but chose worldly gain over divine guidance. His story is often cited as one of the most heartbreaking examples of how knowledge without sincerity can lead to destruction. 📖 Story of Bal‘am bin Ba‘ura According to Islamic narrations: Bal‘am was a learned man from the time of Musa (AS). He was granted deep knowledge, and some narrations say he even knew the Ism-e-Azam (The Greatest Name of Allah). When Prophet Musa (AS) and Bani Israel approached his land, local leaders pressured Bal‘am to pray against Musa (AS). At first, he refused because he knew Musa (AS) was a true Prophet. But due to greed...

🧀🍗 Chicken Cheesy Ghilafi Kabab 🌟 Introduction Chicken Cheesy Ghilafi Kabab is a soft, juicy and flavorful kabab coated with colourful vegetables and stuffed with melted cheese inside. It is crispy from the outside, creamy from inside, and absolutely perfect for Iftar, dinner parties, Dawat, Eid gatherings, and special occasions. This recipe is easy to prepare and can also be made & freeze for Ramadan preparation. 📝 Description These kababs are made with finely minced chicken mixed with aromatic spices, herbs, and cream. A delicious cube of cheese is placed in the centre, then coated (Ghilaf) with capsicum, carrots and coriander for a beautiful look and extra flavour. Pan-fried to golden perfection — they turn out crispy outside and cheesy inside. Every bite is bursting with taste! 🛒 Ingredients 🐔 For Kabab Mixture: 1.5 kg Chicken mince (boneless) 2 tbsp Ginger garlic paste 3 tbsp Fresh coriander (chopped) 2 green chillies (finely chopped) 1 tsp Red chili powder...

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:186–187) From the Quran 🔹 Translation 📖 2:186 “And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the call of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me and believe in Me that they may be guided.” 📖 2:187 “It has been made lawful for you, on the night of fasting, to be intimate with your wives. They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them. Allah knew that you were deceiving yourselves, so He accepted your repentance and forgave you. So now, have relations with them and seek what 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 sunset. And do not have relations with them while you are in retreat (i‘tikaf) in the mosques. These are the limits set by Allah, so do not approach them. Thus Allah makes His verses clear to the people that they may become righteous.” 🔹 Explanation (Tafsir Summary)...

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183–185) 🔹 TRANSLATION 2:183 O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain righteousness (taqwa). 2:184 [Fasting is for] a limited number of days. So whoever among you is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. And upon those who are able (but with difficulty) – a ransom of feeding a poor person. But whoever volunteers extra good – it is better for him. And to fast is better for you, if only you knew. 2:185 The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Qur’an was revealed as guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever witnesses the month must fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey – then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend hardship for you. So that you complete the prescribed period and glorify Allah for guiding you, and that you may be grateful. 🌿 EXPLANATION Purpose of Fasting – Taqwa ...

Surah Al-Ma’un (سورة الماعون) Surah Number: 107 Verses: 7 Place of Revelation: Makkah 🔹 Full English Translation Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense (the Day of Judgment)? That is the one who repels the orphan And does not encourage the feeding of the poor. So woe to those who pray, Those who are heedless of their prayer, Those who make a show (of their deeds), And withhold small acts of kindness. 🔎 Explanation (Tafsir in Simple Words) Surah Al-Ma’un exposes the true face of hypocrisy. It describes a person who: Claims belief but denies accountability. Treats orphans harshly. Does not care about feeding the poor. Prays but without sincerity. Performs religious acts only to show off. Refuses even small acts of help. Allah is teaching that Islam is not just rituals — it is character, compassion, and sincerity. A person who prays but has no mercy, no humility, and no social responsibility is spiritually empty. 📌 Description (For YouTube or Post) Sura...

Surah Fatir (35:13–18) 🔹 Translation (English – Verse by Verse) Verse 13 He merges the night into the day and merges the day into the night. And He has subjected the sun and the moon—each running for a fixed term. That is Allah, your Lord; to Him belongs all sovereignty. Those whom you call besides Him do not own even the thin membrane of a date seed. Verse 14 If you call upon them, they do not hear you; and if they heard, they could not respond to you. On the Day of Judgment, they will deny your association with them. And none can inform you like the All-Aware. Verse 15 O mankind, you are in need of Allah, while Allah is Free of need, Worthy of all praise. Verse 16 If He wills, He can remove you and bring forth a new creation. Verse 17 And that is not difficult for Allah. Verse 18 No soul will bear the burden of another. If a heavily burdened soul cries for help, none of its burden will be carried, even by a close relative. You can only warn those who fear their Lord uns...

Surah Ghafir (40): Verses 49–50 English Translation (Verse by Verse) Verse 49: And those who are in the Fire will say to the keepers of Hell, “Call upon your Lord to lighten for us the punishment for just one day.” Verse 50: They will say, “Did your messengers not come to you with clear proofs?” They will say, “Yes.” The keepers will say, “Then call yourselves.” But the supplication of the disbelievers is nothing but in error. 🕌 Introduction Surah Ghafir is a powerful Makki Surah that highlights Allah’s mercy, justice, and absolute authority. Verses 49–50 present a heart-shaking scene of the Day of Judgment, where the people of Hell beg even for one day of relief, only to be reminded of the chances they wasted in worldly life. 🔍 Explanation The people of Hell do not directly call upon Allah — instead, they beg the keepers of Hell, showing their complete helplessness. Their request is not for freedom, only a single day of reduced punishment, showing the severity of Hel...

And We have enjoined upon man care for his parents. His mother carried him, weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. (Be grateful to Me and to your parents.) To Me is the final return. Verse 15 But if they strive to make you associate with Me that of which you have no knowledge, do not obey them; yet keep good company with them in this world, and follow the way of those who turn back to Me. Then to Me is your return, and I will inform you about what you used to do. Verse 16 “O my son, even if it be the weight of a mustard seed, and it is within a rock, or in the heavens, or in the earth, Allah will bring it forth. Indeed, Allah is Subtle and All-Aware.” Explanation These verses balance faith, family, and accountability. Allah commands gratitude and kindness toward parents, highlighting the mother’s sacrifice. Yet obedience to parents has a limit—faith comes first. Even if parents call toward shirk, respect remains, but obedience does not. Verse 16 te...

Surah Al-Isra (85–89) 🔹 Introduction Surah Al-Isra verses 85 to 89 address some of the deepest questions of human existence: the reality of the soul, the limitation of human knowledge, the divine origin of the Qur’an, and humanity’s response to guidance. These verses clearly distinguish between human curiosity and divine wisdom, reminding mankind that true knowledge belongs only to Allah. 🔍 Explanation (Verse-wise) Verse 85 – Knowledge of the Soul Allah responds to questions about the soul by declaring that it belongs to His command alone. Humans are given only a small portion of knowledge, teaching humility and submission. Key lesson: Not everything can be grasped by science or intellect. Verse 86 – Power Over Revelation Allah reminds that the Qur’an itself is a divine gift, and He has full power to withdraw revelation if He wills. Key lesson: Revelation is mercy, not entitlement. Verse 87 – Mercy of Allah The Qur’an remains only due to Allah’s great mercy upon Prophet Mu...

Introduction This powerful verse from the Qur’an challenges humanity to reflect deeply on creation. Allah invites people to observe the universe—its precision, beauty, and balance—and then asks a bold question: Can anyone besides Allah create anything like this? The verse exposes the weakness of false gods and highlights the clear truth of Tawheed (Oneness of Allah). Explanation Allah declares: “This is the creation of Allah”—pointing to the heavens, earth, nature, and all living beings as undeniable evidence of His supreme power. Then comes a challenge: “Show me what those besides Him have created.” No idol, no human, no force can create life, the laws of nature, or the universe from nothing. The verse concludes by stating that those who still worship others besides Allah are “in clear error.” This is not confusion or ignorance—it is deliberate deviation from an obvious truth. The Qur’an invites people to use intellect, observation, and sincerity to recognize the Creator. Descri...