Aqaaid

Reading inappropriate literature

Q: When I read something inappropriate (nothing like nudity, but text), something that a Muslim should not laugh at, I involuntarily have smirks? I have seized my jaw in the past (like tightened it) to stop myself as well as lightly biting my gums. Genuinely I don't want to laugh or smile, but frown if anything. So what do you think?

Reverting to Islam

Q: A friend of mine recently converted to Islam Alhumdulillah. As we live in a non-Islamic country, he needed to sign a form stating that he has knowingly and willingly converted to Islam and has taken the Shahada. This form needs to be signed in front of a policeman or notary by the Imam of his local masjid and also a witness from his family to acknowledge that they know of and understand his decision to convert to Islam. This form is mainly so that should he die, he is buried in the proper Islamic manner and his family who are non-Muslims cannot bury him otherwise. Obviously all other terms and conditions of being a convert to Islam with family still non-Muslim apply. However his parents have refused to accept his Islam and therefore will not willingly witness and sign the form. My question is, can another family member (e.g. his uncle) stand as witness to this signing and will it be binding? Is there anything else he needs to do with regards to this and his conversion to Islam?

Painting and singing

Q: I really love reading your lectures and I am a recent convert. Allah has made me and gave me various talents and I thank him for his gifts. Few of the talents are painting, singing and writing. In short, I love arts. Why will Allah give me such talents and then tell me not to exercise them since all the three things I mentioned above is Haram. By music, I mean classical music and not the modern music. Please clear my doubt.

Baseless beliefs

Q: Many people believe that Hazrat Khidhr (Alayhis Salaam) comes in the dream of every Muslim man once in his life and asks him if he needs  something. Then he makes duaa and there is great chance that what he will receive what he asked for. Is there any truth in this?