What is zuhd (asceticism)? Does it mean wearing scruffy clothing, fasting constantly, and keeping away from society, or something else?

Allah tells us in the Qur'an not to cut off our blood relations. What is the interpretation of the Ayah that commands us not to severe ties of kinship? Who does it refer to? Just parents and siblings? What if one maintains contact with one's parents only through telephone or letters although he is capable of visiting them. Yet, he feels that maintaining a certain distance is healthier to the relationship ?

What are our duties towards our Muslim brothers who have been stricken by calamities and disasters throughout the world?

I have a question about some terminology that I would like you to explain to me. In some audio lectures I hear words such as (a marfoo' hadith) or  (a maqtoo' hadith)..

What is the ruling on eating the food (rice, meat, chicken or cake) that is given to us by a Christian friend that he made for his birthday or for Christmas or the Christian New Year? What is your opinion on congratulating him by saying, "Insha Allaah you will continue to do well this year" so as to avoid saying Kull 'aam wa antum bi khayr (approx. "season's greetings") or "Happy New Year" etc?

When can I start fasting six days of Shawwal, since we have annual leave right now?

I have heard that there is a certain attitude that the Muslim should adopt if he faces a time of fitnah (tribulation). What is the attitude towards fitnah?.

Respected scholars, As-Salamu `Alaykum. I have asked this question of many scholars but no one has been able to give me a satisfactory answer. I hope you can clarify it for me. I know that man has to go through a lot of problems and afflictions throughout his life. Now these sufferings could be a punishment from God or it could be that God wants to test his faith and raise his ranks in the Hereafter. But how can we tell the difference between punishment from God or tests and trials by God? Jazakum Allahu Khayran.

Question:
In western countries many Muslims celebrate the Mother's day. What is the rule of Shariah concerning this celebration?

I would like to ask you about my friends who claim they can call spirits. Is it possibly true? If it is, what is really going on?

I am a South African who used to study in the United States. When I was studying, I borrowed $6000 US from another South African. We are both back in South Africa now, and it is more convenient for both of us if I pay him back I South African rands. Is this allowed?
 

Did everyone on earth – apart from those who were with Nooh on board the ark – drown when Allah sent the flood? Can everyone who is on earth now be regarded as descendants of those who were on board the ark (ship)?