What is the ruling on making up for missed fasting after the second half of Sha`ban (the month before Ramadhaan)?
One is obliged to make up for missed fasting before the start of next Ramadhaan, and regardless of offering it during the first, or the second half of Shab`an. This is because the prohibition mentioned in the Hadith is for offering absolute voluntary fasting in the second half of Sha`ban. And Allah Knows Best.
What is the ruling on taking a loan from an interest-based bank (a usurious bank) to buy an apartment for housing, noting that I am renting at a high amount relative to my income, and I am an employee? Also, considering that the conditions of Islamic banks are strict, and I cannot obtain the full amount from them, is it permissible to take a loan to purchase an apartment or not? May Allah reward you.
Usury (interest) is prohibited by Islamic law, and the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, cursed the one who consumes usury, the one who pays it, its recorder, and its witnesses. Whoever leaves something for the sake of Allah, Allah will compensate them with something better and greater, and Allah will provide relief after hardship. Needing a place to live does not permit taking a loan with interest. And Allah Knows Best.
A man who was on travel prayed Duhr as four Rakhas upon leaving Tafilah heading to Amman. However, on his way to Amman, he prayed Asir as two Rakhas (Shortened). Is what he did correct from an Islamic perspective?
All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of The Worlds. May His blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions.
What he did is correct; he is liable for nothing before Allah The Almighty, since combining and shortening prayers during travel are two separate concessions. Therefore, it is permissible for a traveler to shorten prayer without combining it with another. And Allah The Almighty Knows Best.
Is it permissible to recite the Holy Qur'an or to play a recording at mourning gatherings? Or is it considered an innovation?
Whenever Qur'anic verses are recited, it is obligatory upon everyone to listen, otherwise; they should remain silent. And Allah Knows Best.