Shamsuddin Waheed

What the HELL is wrong with American politics?

2012-01-18T17:49:00.000-08:00

It is apparent to our readers that the subject of this article is one that is very different from our usual subject matter. Adding the word HELL, in capital letters, attempts to convey the seriousness and the utter amazement at the situation.

It's election time again, folks, and we certainly expect to see mudslinging thrown by every candidate and their respective political foes. It's the norm, something that all American voters seem to anticipate. Yet, to this humble observer, some of the recent statements out there on the campaign trail has really, as the expression goes, 'taken the cake.'

Take for example Newt Gingrich's making fun of Mitt Romney for being able to speak French. Where else but America could one politician be critical of another politician for having the ability to speak a foreign language?! Perhaps Gingrich's attack was meant to show that Romney [ a Mormon] had opportunities beyond that of average people, that his abilities to speak French are just a manifestation of that 'out of touch with the people' argument.

Even within the elite, educated and connected personalities in the nation, there exists a xenophobia of massive proportions. Whatever one thinks of Romney's politics, or any of the other candidates trying to get the Republican nomination this round, why would anyone even consider using knowledge of a language as a liability? The answer goes back to a serious issue or problem within both the elites and, to a lesser extent, in the public sphere, fear and paranoia, especially of outsiders and outside influence.

If that didn't take the cake, here's another one. Rick Perry, another illustrious choice, asserted recently that Turkey is ruled by "Islamic terrorists", that its laws oppress women [I guess the secularists having women wearing Hijab banned from Turkish colleges and government buildings was in fact liberating, right?], that it condones honor killings [which, is in fact, actually illegal in Turkey as well as against Islamic teachings]. He even says "I think Turkey has got to decide whether they want to be a country that projects those Western values that America is all about. "

As if Turkey is under some sort of moral or legal obligation to "project Western values" [whatever that means]. It reeks of arrogance and false assumptions.

I am not speaking about Muslims or Islam per se in this article, rather, my intention is to ask the question and hope to get an answer, "what is wrong with this picture?" Especially in a world of almost universal INTERNET access, how is it that our leaders and those vying for the position can not only be dishonest and rabble rousing, but actually ignorant and quite stupid? How can we even take them seriously? Why do we tolerate it?

All comments are welcome. Please note that this post is NOT an endorsement of any party or candidate, it is just a query voiced to you all, noble readers.

99 percent movement; the handwriting on the wall

2011-12-12T06:53:00.000-08:00

Introduction

There has been a great deal of discussion in recent months about the "99%" protest movement, its supporters 'occupying' parks and other public spaces in both major and small cities across the United States. Its members have even engaged in actions such as chanting slogans at speeches of politicians. Commentators across the spectrum have been giving their perspective, oftentimes with sarcasm, expressing the view that the protestors have unrealistic goals, or, perhaps far worse, an incoherent complaint and wish list{ft.1}

Immediate causes of the protest movement

The financial crisis, lack of jobs, and the sense that big government cares little for the poor and middle class, whether or not one agrees with these assertions, it seems that these basic reasons succinctly describe the background, at least of the immediate nature behind the protests, a description that should not be disputed by anyone.

Protest movement a symptom of deeper issues

The Bank Bailouts, while average Americans suffer financially, was perhaps the straw that broke the proverbial camel's back. Inspired by the protest movement that swept the Middle East [popularly called the "Arab Spring"]{ft.2}, the 99% was born!

A greater sense of disillusionment with the way we conduct business, the culture of greed and apathy that seemingly anoint every facet of business, financial and political life.

I think that the frustrations will continue to be expressed, both in positive and negative ways, for a long time to come.

Eventually, it seems to us that an awakening will occur, which will show in the minds of people that the entire system is inherently unjust and exploitative, built upon a position of influencing the baser desires, narcissism, and spiritual bankruptcy!

Does Islam have anything to say on these issues?

Islam sees itself as a completion of God's will and plan for the spiritual and material salvation of mankind. Indeed, it proposes a system of business and politics that places firm moral and ethical principles above that of strategic or financial interest. Islam seeks the reformation of both the person and the group, soul and body, of theology ['Aqeedah] as well as methodology!

As such, we present below a variety of guidelines from the Qur'an, a scripture with information which is relevant for all times, places and contexts.

[1] Overindulgence must be placed under control.

" And give to the near of kin and the needy, and the wayfarers their, dues, and do not squander [your wealth] wastefully. Certainly, the squanderers are like satansand Satan is always ungrateful to his Lord." [Q 17:26-27, Amatul Rahman Omar translation]

[2] Discarding evil, harmful or immoral habits.

One example is that of alcohol, drugs and gambling [ 5:90-91 and also 2:219]. These prohibitions are also to be applied, by analogy [Qiyaas] to that which clearly has harm that outweighs benefits{ft.3].

[3] Strengthening of family and community ties.

A strong family and community feeling will be a source of love, team work, security and fidelity. Indeed, rather than one person buying a house, a group of family or friends, whose responsibility and abilities are proven, should work together to acquire a home, share in its benefits as well as the costs associated with it. In this way, the interest rates associated with bank loans and the like can be limited, if not completely eliminated, even within the framework of the current economic culture!

The strengthening and bonding of peoples, especially in contrast with systems of exploiting the weakest of society members, is a constant mission of all of the Prophets and messengers of God, something that we read throughout scriptures. The Prophet Muhammad, the seal of the Prophets [Q 33:40], established a pattern in which he would almost literally bond two families or individuals, from different tribes and social status, in which they shared everything. This bond became emotional, creating a series of networks based on trust, faith, fidelity and honesty. For more details, please refer to The Life of Muhammad, by Muhammad Husayn Haykal, pp 176-178 [ American Trust publications, 1995 edition, Plainfield, Indiana].

A strategy of communal/family ties protecting the interests of its family members can also be adopted with regards to major transactions such as College tuition. In this way, borrowing from banks and lending institutions can be almost eliminated.

The above guidelines only work in a framework of community, of brotherhood, of patience, commitment and determination.

By thinking differently, we can then act differently, and then have better results. In this way, perhaps more than anything else, we can come to see the systems of Ribaa [Interest and Usury] and Dhulm [Oppression, the usurpation of rights] die natural deaths!

Ribaa has been so thoroughly condemned within the Qur'an! Yet, its elimination must take place in a context of moral, social and spiritual reform. Any other way will lead to more corruption and stagnation, albeit with an "Islamic face"{ft.4]!

"I cite as witness the time. Verily, a person ...is pursuing a losing bargain, different, however, is the case of those who believe and do deeds of righteousness and [who] exhort one another to [accept and preach] the truth and exhort one another to [abide by it with] patience and perseverance." [Q 103:1-3, Amatul Rahman Translation]

"..and [bear in mind] for the one who keeps his duty to Allah, he will provide facility in his affair for him." [Q 65:4]

"O you who believe! Do not practice Usury and interest involving multiple additions, and keep your duty to Allah and take him as a shield so you may prosper." [Q 3:130]

"Allah annuls usury and interest and promotes charity.."[ Q 2:276]

Footnotes

[1] See the following clip from "The Colbert Report", as an example of the perception that the 99% movement is incoherent.

[2] We shared some observations on the "Arab Spring" in its very beginning stages. Please see http://shamsuddinwaheed.blogspot.com/2011/02/revolutionary-passions-flare-in-middle.html.

[3] Cigarettes and other tobacco products are excellent examples of this. Traditionally, 'Ulamaa have seen these items as Makrooh [Disliked], and not Haraam [Islamically forbidden]. But it is common knowledge that these items cause cancer, a number of other ailments, as well as a financial drain. Thus, we should treat those items as forbidden to us and thus abstain from them!

[4] One example may be that of inheritance rights. The Qur'an admittedly gives smaller amounts of inheritance for women [ see Q 4:11-13], but that is perfectly logical and reasonable when one considers that the Qur'an has placed financial burdens on men [meaning, fathers and husbands] and not women! Thus, recognizing this, it makes sense that since men are imagined in a Quranic worldview to be responsible that they would have more of an assistance in the form of inheriting. It is worth noting that in the Pre-Islamic era in Arabia, women had no rights of inheritance at all. On the responsibility of men, particularly husbands, see here. It should also be noted that traditionally women are given a large dowry upon marriage, a safety net in case of death of divorce!

Qur'an: foundation for education and diversity

2011-11-02T20:38:00.000-07:00

Qur’an: a Foundation for Education and Diversity

The first words of revelation bestowed to the Prophet [PBUH] were “Iqraa” [“Read”]. Commentators, activists and educators spend a great deal of time expounding this phrase, as well as the statements following it in Soorah Al-‘Alaq. Our focus here is a bit different from our predecessors, in that we want to get a feeling of how the Qur’an impacted the Prophet.

Muhammad the man was an ummi Prophet. This phrase is generally understood as meaning “illiterate”. While we do accept this traditional understanding (because of the fact that in those days, especially in an Arabian context, very few people could read or write), another way of looking at this designation ummi is that he, Muhammad, was uneducated in religion and philosophy as well as untrained in the sciences and fields of knowledge that would raise a society. Yet, here he is in a cave, commanded to “Read, in the name of Your Lord who has created” [Q 96:1]. This normal man is now in the process of personal elevation, growth beyond his immediate experiences and surroundings. A native of a desert environment that had all but isolated from the rest of the world is now commanded to examine, comprehend and interpret that same world.

Certainly, Muhammad, peace be upon him, was unique. He was Allah’s messenger, and the seal (last) of the Prophets. He was given a scripture over a twenty-three year period. The process of that revelation can provide Muslims with great lessons. Allah wants the believers to become a people who can appreciate diversity, who can be comfortable in all goodly settings, whose knowledge and understanding goes beyond one’s immediate social, economic and class experiences. Basically, to be a people who, as a whole, reach their intellectual and spiritual zenith.

Accepting Islam in its totality includes accepting knowledge/wisdom/guidance from any reliable source. Xenophobia is like a huge boulder which is blocking a cave exit, trapping its inhabitants to a dark, cold and lonely fate. Islam has been given to mankind to broaden perspectives, to create a worldview that can see and even appreciate the diversity in all things, benefitting from that. The Prophet’s audience, the collective Ummiyyeen, had that boulder removed, and went on to become the founders of many civilizations, creating countless blessings for all mankind. Let us do the same.

[Shamsuddin Waheed is Imam at Toledo Masjid Al-Islam, Toledo, Ohio. A writer and lecturer, he can be contacted via email at waheed79@yahoo.com. More of his writings can be found at shamsuddinwaheed.blogspot.com.]

A picture

2011-10-13T04:25:00.001-07:00

Salaam, the following picture is from a recent talk at Masjid Saad foundation [Sylvania, Ohio], in which we discussed Soorah Al-Faatihah [Qur'an 1:1-7] and its relation to the Muhammadan universal reach. A more thorough discussion can be found in the CD Al-Faatihah and the Prophets available from Arifin Imports [P.O. Box 70617, Toledo, Ohio, 43607, website is www.arifinimports.com

Setting the record straight: questions about Toledo Masjid Al-Islam

2011-08-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

Introduction

As salaamu 'alaikum, Toledo Masjid Al-Islam, since moving to its current location last year at 722 East Bancroft street [in the heart of downtown Toledo], has experienced tremendous growth as well as the support and generosity, both financial and moral, of the wider Muslim and Non Muslim community alike. For which, we are humbled and grateful. We have, I dare say, had a tremendous impact on the area and on the Muslim community. Many have been introduced and have actually accepted Islam at our location. We have been a source of charity, assistance, and support for the wider community. The religious and cultural needs of the Muslim community also find expression in the Masjid, with Friday prayers, Taraweeh [Ramadan evening prayers], Islamic lectures, seminars and educational conferences. Our congregation is a diverse one in terms of particular orientations within the Islamic tradition, sects, nationalities and educational and economic backgrounds. Despite the above facts, there still remains a variety of misconceptions and accusations directed against the Mosque and individuals associated with it. Therefore, it is our hope to correct some of those notions at this time. We will make sure this information is also posted in the Masjid itself, and pray that it will be sufficient, to put these controversies to rest. Any questions about the Masjid can be directed either to this blog, or, for more privacy, to Toledomasjid@yahoo.com.

FAQs

[1] What ideology does the Masjid follow?

Toledo Masjid Al-Islam is an organization of people who are followers of the Qur'an, the last scripture, as revealed to Muhammad, the Final Prophet, may peace and blessings be upon him. in terms of both leadership and direction, it is the foundation of Islam itself that serves as the platform by which we have operated and intend to operate.

[2] Who owns the building at 722 East Bancroft street?

Toledo Masjid Al-Islam owns this building. We pay the maintenance, engage in the upkeep and all such expenses associated with it. There is a rumor that one or two individuals [such as myself] are the actual owner[s], but this rumor is not true. Any local people wishing to see the documentation, please make an appointment with us, and we will be happy to show it to you. To re-emphasis, NO SINGLE INDIVIDUAL OWNS THE MASJID OR THE MASJID PROPERTY!

[3] What about the scandals?

There are a variety of rumors centered around one individual associated with the Masjid. That individual can speak for himself, if and when he so chooses, but we would like to remind the reader of two things [A] From a Deeni perspective, rumors such as those that are circulating need evidence and witnesses, which leads us to point "b." [B] This is also the requirement from the legal system in our state, nation, and indeed all nations in the world. If there has been no evidence of any wrongdoing, the worst is not to be assumed. A person not prosecuted for a crime should show, at least for our context, that a crime or wrong act has not been committed.

The Qur'an repeatedly speaks of the errors of gossip and back biting! Moreover, the Muslim scholars have rightly coined the phrase Husnudh-Dhann, or positive conjecture. Meaning, assume the best before the worst is assumed.

[4] Agenda of the Masjid

Our main agenda was articulated in the inaugural Friday prayer service ["The Divine Purpose of Life", June 16, 2010, available on DVD, for which email admin@arifinimports.com]. To summarize, it is [A] To be a place where believers are comfortable, wherein worship and social life can be experienced. [B] To be a center from which Islamic ethics, morals and doctrine can be shared within the neighborhood, and by extension the city and world.

As such, we seek to be a welcoming place for the elders and young among us, regardless of nationality, madh-hab or financial status.

Any further questions or concerns in these regards, forward them to us. If there are parties who choose to abstain from supporting the Masjid activities for ideological reasons, at least have a good idea of what exactly is said from the Masjid minbar! Some of the Friday prayer sermons [Khutbah] are available for free at YouTube. Our writings have been widely published, many of which are available on this site. Yet, even with that, readers who disagree with one or another issue are still welcome to the Masjid, to share disagreements and to be a part of the community. We are told in the Qur'an: " All believers are but brethren, hence [whenever they are at odds], make peace between your two brethren, and remain conscious of God, so that you might be graced with his mercy." [Q 49:10-11, Muhammad Asad translation].

We pray that some of the controversies have been put to rest.

Wallaahu Musta'aan.

Sincerely,
Shamsuddin Waheed, Imam

Toledo Masjid Al-Islam

"News" as a tactic: lessons from "a gay girl in Damascus' blog

2011-06-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

" O believers! When a "Faasiq" [an immoral person who breaks the normal rules of behavior] comes with any information, investigate it, lest you bring harm to a people unknowingly and become regretful afterwards." [Al-Qur'an 49:6]

By now, we have all heard the story of Aminah 'Abdullah 'Arraf. Publisher of the "a gay girl in Damascus' blog, which was said to have been run by a Syrian-American [Muslim] Lesbian living in the Syrian capital, recording "her" plight as a lesbian within a Muslim society going through its own political crisis, with condemnations of the Assad regime, even thoughts on Israel.

A sensational account published on the blog stated that the author was arrested by Syrian intelligence [Mukhabaraat], prompting an international campaign for the author's release. The story quickly unfolded when the pictures of the alleged author turned out to be someone else, but even in that, there was still, at least in the minds of Syrian opposition figures and their supporters worldwide, not enough evidence to dismiss the writer all together. See the following BBC link, which also has an interview with a Syrian opposition spokesman as well as with Jelena Lecic, whose pictures were co-opted unknowingly in this deception.

Later investigations revealed that- in fact- the author of the 'a gay girl in Damascus' blog was neither Syrian, Arab, Muslim, or even a Homosexual! Further details on this can be seen at NPR which also has a picture of the author with his wife.

The same source states the author defended his actions, claiming that his accounts reflect the realities on the ground in Syria.

False stories: oldest trick in the books

Using invented tales and false arguments to justify certain positions are noting new. Indeed, as a result of misleading tales out there, many people still believe that the late Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein had a hand in 9/11. To go back further, the Vietnam war was started after North Vietnam forces allegedly attacked US vessels in the Tonkin gulf region in August 1964, but as it turns out, this incident never even took place!

Perhaps it's a bit unfair to cite these above examples as comparisons to what Tom MacMaster [author of the blog in question] did. Yet, the point seems valid nonetheless, that such a course of action is nothing new, and represents a tactic to put pressure on the Assad regime, not in the name of democratic rights, but because- in their view- Muslims and Muslim lands are fair game for anything that outsiders may want to impose.

Media is indeed a powerful weapon, and with the advent of the internet, where there does exist almost completely equal access to abilities to publish one's news/views, it can be an even heavier sword in the hands of writers. Indeed, the Qur'anic verse cited at the beginning of this post becomes even more relevant.

Islam and critical thinking

As Muslims, we have to take the commands of the Qur'an and Prophetic model seriously. The Qur'an demands investigation in any claim, especially when such claims can affect the safety and dignity of people.

Within Muslim history, the verse in question has served as a basis upon which the Muhadditheen [scholars, compilers of Prophetic Sunnah] looked at the narrators of reports they [i.e. the Muhadditheen] collected concerning the Prophet. One famous story which is attributed to Imam Al-Bukhari{ft.1} states that he did not even bother meeting with a man who was to share some Prophetic narrations when he saw the man treating a horse in a cruel manner.

We can agree that such character-based judgement of narrators [be it hadeeth narrators or those telling us any story] is imperfect. After all, our judgement may be wrong, based on incomplete information, and even if our decision is correct, there does exist a chance that the narrator may be telling the truth, and it's also possible that those we deem trustworthy have narrated an incomplete, biased, or even false account.

One account which the scholars have generally rejected is the "satanic verses" story. This account alleged that the Prophet received "satanic inspiration" to actually order his followers to prostrate before the pagan deities [al lat, Manat and Al'Uzza] (ft.2}. Such a claim insults the Prophet, the Qur'an, and contradicts known history and common sense. The Prophet, upon whom be peace and blessings, sacrificed much in his mission. Battles, death, enmity of tribes, and yet he never deviated from his mission. to assert that he would- in a moment of weakness or in the name of political expediency- allow his principles to be violated by such an order to his followers is ridiculous!

Fortunately, the Muslims have, in terms of both theological ['Aqeedah] issues and Prophetic history, a source that is reliable and free from error, and that source is the Glorious Qur'an!

A lay man unaware of the complexities of recorded histories, unable to determine on their own what is authentic and what is spurious, can look at the Qur'anic contents and understand what the Prophet was really about. He or she can get a clear picture of the Prophet's actions, intentions, inspiration, and motivation by having a look at the Qur'an. Critics say he was a man obsessed with sex.But how can this be, when the Qur'an tells us that he would spend his nights, half or even a third of it, dedicated to prayer and contemplation? [see Qur'an 73:20].

He was a man who had very little concern for material things, he was a statesman, a religious teacher, when would he have the time for the sort of accusations made against him?

This is just one example, but our over-riding point is that we must be careful. Claims are circulating that both Syrian and Libyan soldiers are using rape against their opponents. Maybe this is true, but we must investigate first. Wecan't assume and then act upon assumptions. This religion has been sent forth for spiritual guidance, and that guidance is to translate practically in daily, political, business and social life!

It should be noted that this post does not seek to defend the governments in Libya, Syria or anywhere else. Nor are we blind to the realities of troubles in Muslim lands. But those problems should be resolved internally, and not made worse by lies and propaganda. The ends do not justify the means!

Here, we only appeal to the use of critical thinking, of investigation and of caution. These appeals are useful in any place or time in life, but are especially important in issues that affect the safety of peoples and societies.

May Allah guide us, forgive us, and allow us to see truth, whereever it is. As his Prophet, Sall Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam, used to pray, we pray that Allah's light illuminate us, in front and back of us, to our right as well as our left. Ameen![Ft.3]

Footnotes

[1] Imam Al-Bukhari's collection, known as Saheeh Al-Bukhari, is the most popular and trustworthy of sources of information about the Prophet. Indeed, one expression that describes its value is As Sahh al Kutub Ba'da Kitaab Allah, the most authentic of books after the Book of God. It should be noted that Hadeeth is not equal to the Qur'an, and although we give the most attention to Bukhari's collection, he [Bukhari] never saw it as error-free.

[2] The famed historian and Qur'an commentator, Imam Muhammad Jarir At-Tabari [hence referred to as Tabari] is the only commentator who records this story, but even he stated that he only records what was told to him. An examination of his writings show that he, most likely, did not believe this story either, but nonetheless shared what he was told. In any case, even if he[Tabari] did believe it, it makes no difference, for our opinions or understanding of Prophetic teaching and action cannot contradict the position or the teaching given in the Qur'an.

[3] This supplication of the Prophet, as reported in hadeeth sources, can be found in the useful booklet Hisnul Muslim, compiled by Sa'eed ibn 'Ali Wahf Al-Qahtaani, pg 44, Dar al Khair, Jeddah.]

Gender identity: thoughts on a Canadian couple's parenting style

2011-05-25T08:45:00.000-07:00

Admittedly, this composition is hard to write, and I have even wondered if it was necessary to even write about this issue. In the end, however, it seems necessary to speak on this. A reader sent me the following link: [url] http://www.parentcentral.ca/parent/babiespregnancy/babies/article/995112--parents-keep-child-s-gender-secret[/url]which interviews a Canadian couple who have decided to raise a "genderless baby" named Storm! The reasoning behind such a move is given in the following excerpt from the article

“When the baby comes out, even the people who love you the most and know you so intimately, the first question they ask is, ‘Is it a girl or a boy?’” says Witterick, bouncing Storm, dressed in a red-fleece jumper, on her lap at the kitchen table.

“If you really want to get to know someone, you don’t ask what’s between their legs,” says Stocker.

When Storm was born, the couple sent an email to friends and family: “We've decided not to share Storm's sex for now — a tribute to freedom and choice in place of limitation, a stand up to what the world could become in Storm's lifetime (a more progressive place? ...).”

The article goes on to say that the "liberal" couple's two sons have been raised in a similar fashion, they pick out clothes from both boys and girls sections of the stores, and seem to have been nurtured in such a fashion wherein its acceptable to wear hair styles and colors generally associated with females.

It's certainly true that gender roles and identifying markers are largely subjective, in the sense that cultures have varying norms and styles associated with males and females respectively. In the Middle East, men wear the Jalabiyyah. It's a long [to the feet], one piece tunic. The traditional depictions of Jesus has him wearing a white Jalabiyyah-type cloth. Yet, in an American context, it may be seen by many unfamiliar with other cultures as a woman's dress!

Yet, as the article itself points out, there is no mistaking the genitalia of a person. As a baby grows, their gender will be apparent, and this is certainly true in the onset of puberty.

Rebellion against nature

While we admit that gender identifying clothes/habits/tastes vary according to cultural norm, the whole premise of "not identifying the gender, allowing the child to choose their gender" is a form of rebellion against nature! In the modern world, where we see ourselves as having control over every aspect of life, we have a deficit in terms of our connection with what's real.

What happened to the days when kids loved to play outside? These days, everyone wants to have their children [or more accurately, the children themselves desire] to play video games, music and games on their phone, chatting and using twitter, rather than engaging on a social level. We depend on electronic media and seemingly isolate ourselves from the natural world.

Of course, we have to admit that, from a religious standpoint, this is one of our objections to homosexuality. Procreation cannot take place between two men or between two women, it can only happen in a relationship between a man and a woman. Homosexuality is inherently against nature. Yet, what we are talking about, the complete elimination [or at least marginalization] of gender from identity, especially of a child, is a whole other ballgame. It's worse than simply having a sexual preference that's unnatural! These parents, what are they setting their children, especially the baby named Storm, up for? How will the children themselves have healthy lives when they are living in a situation wherein they are raised with a thought that keeping secret one's gender is a virtue?

It is our hope that the parents will see that their choice to use their children to preach an agenda of gender elimination from society will have devastating emotional and psychological consequences, and correct the situation before its too late. It is also our hope that in general, humankind will return to having natural, healthy relationships, both with each other and with the planet in general.

Some pictures

2011-05-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Salaam, Shalom, Peaceful greetings: I have been asked by many readers to share some pictures, so here are a couple.

These are pictures from our local Mosque, Toledo Masjid Al-Islam [or simply 'Toledo Masjid"]. The main prayer hall is over 2000 square feet, and is decorated with the Al-Faatihah in the Qiblah wall [Al-Faatihah is Quranic chapter #1, central to prayers], while the borders are decorated with the 99 names of God as given within the Islamic tradition. Note that all of these texts are utilizing gold leaf. The sign outside has at the top the Quranic expression "And the remembrance of God is the greatest [source of power and inspiration]" [Q 29:45]. All are welcome. Toledo Masjid is at 722 East Bancroft, Toledo Oh. 419-241-9522, Toledomasjid.com

Lingering concerns: implications on the death of Osama Bin Laden

2011-05-04T04:33:00.000-07:00

The last three days have seen- quite justly-much discussion in the world following the Sunday raid on a compound in Abbotobad, Pakistan [Three hour drive outside of Islamabad, the former has been wrongly described by US officials as a "suburb" of Islamabad] that led to the point blank shooting death of a reportedly unarmed Osama Bin Laden, the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 attack on the US.

Governments and organizations worldwide have rushed to offer their congratulations to President Obama for authorizing the mission, at great political risk, these words of felicitation have even come from political foes, such as Sarah Palin.Spontaneous celebrations were seen outside the White House, in New York at the WTC site, and throughout college campuses and public sites all over the nation.

Bin Laden death changes nothing

The whole world has seemingly been captivated by details of the raid, the living arrangements for the fugitive, and his "respectful" burial at sea. Yet, the truth of the matter is, is that Osama Bin Laden was largely irrelevant to the Muslims! He was widely seen as a perpetrator of violence against not only Western targets, but also against Muslims. Indeed, the ideology he believed in essentially makes Takfeer [declaring Muslims as non Muslims, which, in the view of those making the declarations, justifies their deaths and confiscation of property]. Pakistan has suffered THE most at the hands of these type of ideologies.

Moreover, the Arab world has witnessed great changes. The dictators, both the darlings of Western interests [such as Hosni Mubarak and Tunisia's Zain ul'Abideen Ben 'Ali] as well as their traditional foes [i.e. the maverick "Brother leader" Mu'ammar Al-Qadhdhafi] are basically on their way to the wayside. The peoples of the Arab world have finally realized that they CAN be successful at changing their leaders and changing the system that has, for so long, deprived them of political freedoms, economic opportunities, and social justice. This change was in no way inspired by Bin Laden's views or similar ideologies[ft.1].

Part of the appeal that Bin Laden may have had in the past was two fold [A] He was seen as a Robin Hood type figure, a rich man from a wealthy backround [one needs only be in Saudi Arabia for one hour before seeing the family name on one building or another] who abandoned a comfortable life to join in struggles against the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. [B] The undeniable fact that the majority of the Muslim world, and especially the Arab world, has suffered setback after setback, not to mention the usurpation of Palestine, at the expense of native [Arab] Palestinians, leading to constant wars, invasions, military attacks, the disruptions of economies, etc.., coming from outside. A situation that people get tired of.

These problems, briefly outlined in Line "B" above, are still largely unresolved. Indeed, the recent decision by Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah to reconcile and form some sort of united government has led to Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu to actually say "You cannot have peace with both Israel and Hamas". Kashmir still exists as a problem, which has been unresolved since partition. Western support for dictatorships that crush local aspirations in the hopes of securing Oil interests still pose a problem. Pakistan, while a US ally, still feels the almost daily drone attacks on villages, and Afghanistan still suffers from conflict.

Rather than celebrating the death of a single man, policy makers have to look beyond that, and address the REALISTIC CAUSES THAT ALLOWED SUCH FIGURES TO COME INTO EXISTENCE IN THE FIRST PLACE. {fT 2}

Killing Bin Laden in such a fashion will prove counter-productive

As of date, government officials have not yet announced whether photos of Bin Laden's corpse will be released. There has already been at least two unofficial pictures I have seen, one of which looks nothing like him. Others have made similar observations, and of course there will be conspiracy theories about what happened for years to come. To avoid all of that, it would have been better to capture him alive and have him stand on trial, for the whole world to witness, or at the very least, for the American public.

To just send in a military group into a house, in Pakistan, without the knowledge or permission of Pakistani authorities, shoot him in the head, shoot some others, and then dump his body in the Ocean, appears just as it is, a vigilante' move, one which leaves the door open for revenge by Bin Laden supporters, for more resentment, even for those unsympathetic to Bin Laden, to the US, leading to more and more problems which, quite frankly, the nation cannot afford.

It has been pointed out that he was never officially indited on charges relating to 9/11 in the first place. Be that as it may, he WAS charged in connection to the attack on the USS COLE, as well as the attacks on the embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. He could have stood trial for those!

Conclusion

What's done is done! Nothing can change what happened Sunday in the early hours in Abbotobad. It is our hope that, just as Afghan President Hamid Karzai pointed out, this will lead to the ceasing of air attacks on sites in his nation [and Pakistan as well, we may add], and the end to the war in Iraq. The residents of those nations don't need it, neither do US soldiers need it. The wars have placed an incredible burden, both human and financial, on the United States. It is only in the best interests of all concerned that such ventures cease and desist, so we can have a peaceful world.

Footnotes

[1] One of the videos which started the Egypt protests, leading to the overthrow of the Mubarak regime, was that done by a woman, asking viewers to come protest the arrest of some friends and the beating of others. She spoke of "honor" and other such themes, and quoted the Qur'an, urging people to stand up. I have been unable to find this video again, perhaps a reader can find it and post it in the comments section. Regardless, the Takbeer, religious chants and Quranic references were all made at various points by the protesters during the process which ultimately led to the unseating of Mubarak.

[2] While issues surrounding Palestine and other US foreign policy choices are big factors leading to terrorism, other issues include left over resentment of colonialism, local grievances, and- to an great deal, the rise of sectarianism in the Muslim world. The latter is usually blamed on "Wahhabism", being exported by Saudi Arabia to other nations. Heavily focused on theological purity, Neo-Salafis and Pseudo-Salafis have been blamed for much of the problems within Pakistan, wherein Mosques of various sects [Shi'i, Ahmadi and other Sunnis], as well as shrines and religious processions, have suffered both gun and bomb attacks. In the years following the US invasion of 'Iraq, Sunni-Shi'ah warfare was especially tense, although it has died down somewhat in recent times. Many observers have made claims that various Western interests were actually instigating such feuds, and while there may be some truth to this claim, there is no doubt in the mind of this writer that many of these actions were perpetuated by Muslims against other Muslims!

How to form a relationship with Allah [Subhanaahu wa Ta'alaa]

2011-04-27T13:53:00.000-07:00

Clip from the lecture with the above title. Special rate is available

[url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lN7U32iJKo[/url]

$5.95 plus 2.50 shipping/handling. To order, please contact

Arifin Imports
P O box 70617
Toledo, Oh 43607
419-246-9697
Admin@arifinimports.com

www.arifinimports.com

If above links does not work, then go to youtube and search for "Relationship with Allah" "Shamsuddin Waheed".

New releases from Arifin Imports & Publications

2011-04-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

"How to earn Divine Provision". DVD. Explanation of several Quranic themes, including morality of believers, interfaith relations, respect for Divine symbols, and how these issues intertwine to bring forth the provision of God. $9.95 plus 2.50 shipping/handling. Please order at Arifin Imports, PO Box 70617, Toledo, Oh 43607. 419-246-9697, admin@arifinimports.com

"Shaking world". CD. Lecture delivered in the wake of the Japan tragedy as well as the turmoil facing the Arab World, also explained is the Islamic view on the "end times" and confidence building. 5.95 plus 2.50 shipping/handling.

"How to form a relationship with Allah". DVD. Focuses on practical steps in maintaining and giving strength to one's relationship with God. $5.95 plus 2.50 shipping/handling.

These issues are very relevant in our world today. To obtain these items, and obtain this special rate, please Send your payment [money order/check] to Arifin Imports, P.O. box 70617, Toledo, Ohio 43607. Phone 419-246-9697. Email: Admin@arifinimports.com.

Questions on Islamic law: marriage and divorce

2011-03-30T04:42:00.000-07:00

This post is a bit different in style from our usual writings. Here' we are attempting to convey, in a way as concise as possible, the normative rules from the Qur'an and the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him, with regards to both marriage and divorce, as per the Islamic teachings and from the Islamic sources. Any further questions on this article or related subjects can be posted in the "comments" section which appears at the end of this post.

What are the prerequisites for a Muslim marriage?

Obviously, agreement between the two parties. Forced marriages, which does occur sometimes in various communities in the world, is deemed Haraam [not allowed in Islamic law]. There exists many incidents in the days of the Prophet Muhammad wherein ladies would come to him, saying family had forced their hand into marrying, to which the Prophet would reply that choice had to be made.

In addition to the above requirement, we also have [A] Dowry {Mahr}. The dowry is an amount of money or some other valuable item that is to be given to the wife. This assures some level of security for the wife as well as the seriousness of the man. Traditions inform us that the dowry can even be symbolic, as giving clothes or teaching the bride Qur'an. Of course, this issue would have to be hammered out between the parties. [B] Ceremony: actually the most easy part, and already practiced in every human society, in which the Imam will give a sermon basically reminding the parties of their responsibilities, the wife and husband, along with two witnesses, will sign a contract [usually called 'Aqd in Muslim societies] along with witnesses, two being the minimum. The contract will show the agreement of the parties, as well as the dowry information.

What are the responsibilities the parties have to each other?

The most important one-for the man- is that of financial responsibility. The Qur'an places this squarely on the husband in the words Ar Rijaalu Qawwamoona 'alan Nisaa' ["The men are responsible for the maintainance of their ladies.." [Q 4:34].

Responsibilities of mutual support, of fidelity, and emotional security are also required. The Qur'an says " And among His wonders is this: He creates for you mates out of your own kind. So that you might incline towards them, and He engenders love and tenderness between you: in this, behold, there are messages indeed for people who think!" [Qur'an 30:21, Muhammad Asad translation]

What about Divorce?

Divorce is seen as permitted in Islam, but there has existed both within the body of Islamic texts as well as practice in tradition the tendency to preserve the marriage. God speaks of the fact that although men may find some qualities they dislike in their wives, there may exist in that very thing something good for the man [Q 4:19]. The Qur'an has also recommended counseling, taking a person from each parties family, to act as arbiters [Q 4:35].

It is well known that the husband has right to pronounce divorce, but what is not all that well known is that the wife has a right as well, especially when the husband has disappeared or has not fulfilled any of the responsibilities, or has abandoned the faith of Islam all together!

In such a case, the religious figure [Shaykh or Imam] can pronounce the marriage dissolved, the only requirement is that- just as in a marriage ceremony- witnesses are present. It's also important to have documentation to this decision, signed by witnesses, the wife, and of course the religious figure.

By no means is this post to be taken as comprehensive or encompassing all aspects of these most delicate issues. Nonetheless, we hope this has been useful.

The Ka'bah: a symbol of man's potential

2011-03-24T02:52:00.000-07:00

Origins

According to the Qur'an [Q 2:127], the Ka'bah was constructed by Abraham and his son, to be a place where God ONLY would be worshiped. Although the Qur'anic description of its origins may be disputed by various critics of Islam, all hands agree that the ancient site has always been seen as a place of prayer, amnesty and security. It was deemed a respected site even by the polytheists.[Ft.1].

Function as focal point of prayer direction [Qiblah]

It is worth mentioning that the Qiblah for the early followers of the Prophet Muhammad, upon whom be peace, was not the Ka'bah, rather, it was Jerusalem. We are told that Jerusalem was the first Qiblah for about seventeen months.[ Ft.2]

There are two main reasons for this that should be highlighted. [1] Jerusalem can be said to be a center of monotheism. Many of the prophets and teachers known to the world have a direct or indirect connection to this place of peace. Certainly, Jerusalem has many sites deemed sacred to both Jewish and Christian traditions. [2] Tradition tells us that the Prophet Muhammad embarked upon a spiritual journey from a spot in Jerusalem and onto the heavens. [Ft.3]

As we know, eventually the command came forth informing the Muslims that Makkah, specifically the site of the Ka'bah, should be the Qiblah.

"So, wheresoever you are, turn your faces towards the sacred Mosque [Al-Masjid Al-Haram, the site of the Ka'bah].." [ 2:144].

There is a concept of Qiblah present in Jewish tradition. They face Jerusalem, offering prayers three times daily. The idea behind the main function of Qiblah also finds an eloquent speaker in the writer of the Psalms, who asserts:

But I, by your great mercy, will come into your house, in reverence will I bow down towards your Holy Temple. [Psalms, 5:7, NIV]

For Muslims, to face One direction in prayer, this action serves as a point of unity. The same can be rightfully asserted regarding the prayer format, which is the same across the Muslim community worldwide. [Ft.4]

It should be noted that to Muslims, the Ka'bah, although sacred, does not hold any magical powers. It is merely a symbol. The Qur'an itself tells us "So, worship the Lord of this house" [Q 106:3]. It would be a misreading to assert that the Ka'bah was an idol worshiped by Muslims. Indeed, the black cover [Kiswa] has the above mentioned verse written on it. At Makkah, the visitors are praying, invoking God alone, whom they recognize as the one who has created and maintains the universe.

Hajj-Pilgrimage

The Hajj is considered the last of Islam's five pillars. Its observance is conditional on the person's physical and financial abilities. The pilgrimage re enacts many of the actions of Abraham, the patriarch. It includes invoking God while circling the symbol. During the pilgrimage season, one sees every profession, class rank, nation and color represented. All are made equal by the donning of the white seamless cloth [Ihraam]. It has the potential to serve as an annual conference on world affairs, where the leaders and public alike can mingle and gain better perspective.

Footnotes

[1] In the days of Prophet Muhammad, Sall Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam, the Makkan polytheists had corrupted the Hajj practices, and this even extended to the Ka'bah itself. over 300 idols were said to have been placed and venerated at the Masjid Al-Haram.

[2] This is the figure given by Ibn Katheer. See Tafseer Al-Qur'aan al 'Adheem, volume 2, pg 30-33, Aleppo
edition.

[3] The Prophet's journey is known as the Israa'. It is briefly mentioned in the Qur'an [17:1], but a more detailed explanation can be found in the Hadeeth literature. For which see Saheeh Al-Bukhari, 8:1, 228, pg 156. Riyadh edition. Also of interest is a discussion which can be found in Muhammad Asad's Qur'an commentary [The message of the Qur'an, Gibralter, 1980].

[4] Different schools and sects exist among Muslims, but in general the prayer format is the same, showing another example of unity. The prayer format includes selections from the Qur'an, in particular the first chapter.

Revolutionary passions flare in the Middle East

2011-02-05T12:45:00.000-08:00

Recent weeks have been undeniably eventful for the Middle East, with implications that will be felt worldwide. The spark was lit in Tunisia, where the deplorable conditions prompted a young man named Mohamed BouAzizi to commit suicide [a taboo in Islam, showing the seriousness of the situation], prompting protests which led to the abdication of long time ruler Zayn ul'Aabideen Ben 'Ali. Following the Tunisian example, protests have followed against autocratic rulers and their policies in Yemen, Jordan, Algeria, even Mauritania to an extent, but the most noteworthy and the place which will have the most affects on the region is certainly Egypt, which has been the cultural center of the Arab world.

What are some lessons to learn from all this?

This question will be the basis for books, position papers, speeches and interviews for years to come, and observers from across every divide and perspective imaginable. In the mind of this writer, the most important lesson is that CHANGE IS POSSIBLE.We don't have to sit back, claim helplessness and accept whatever is thrown in our direction.

This is a lesson applicable in any time, place or situation. Here in the USA, especially in Winter time, we complain about the continuing rise in fuel costs, in heating costs. In our personal lives, we accept certain things as unmovable realities. But, as demonstrated first by the Tunisians and now being exemplified by the Egyptians in Tahrir square, Alexandria and other spots, FAITH in God, FAITH in one's own abilities to observe, to make reasonable demands and to strive for change are the tools or the basis needed to generate something better in life.

The Qur'an itself states "Surely, God does not change the condition of a people UNTIL {Hattaa] they change what is in themselves." [Q 13:11]

ANOTHER LESSON

This particular lesson is one that is actually very easy to overlook. That lesson is simply this- everything, even regimes and powerful bodies, have an end. The Qur'an states this as "And to every 'Ummah' [here, meaning power, society, regime, dynasty], a term limit has been granted." [Q 7:34]

While everything does truly have a limited time of existence, even as individuals, God also states in the Qur'an that in the end, real success does not belong to those who are oppressive, exploiters in the earth. [see Qur'an 6:21, 135, 12:23, and 28:37].

May Allah grant mercy and guidance to the people in Egypt, indeed, everywhere in the world where truth is standing against Dhulm and Baatil. May He grant us the ability to recognize that all have their beginnings and their endings, that none is permanent, except of course the noble presence of God. [Q 55:27]

Divine punishment: Qur'anic teaching

2011-01-16T06:20:00.000-08:00

Say: Have you considered [Ara-aytaakum], if the punishment of Allah comes to you [In Ataakum 'Adhaabullaah] unexpectedly or manifestly [Jahratan], will any be destroyed, except the wrongdoing people [Hal Yuhlaku illa Qawmidh-dhaalimeen]?" [Q 6:47]

The context in which this ayah appears speaks of God's authority being rejected by those who are misguided, who have engaged consistently in a pattern of abuse and Dhulm in the world. In fact, we are told that Satan [ Q 6:43] makes their actions seem attractive. Repeatedly, God says, these people should have examined and considered the Ayaaat of Allah [ Subhaanahu wa Ta'alaa] [Q 6:46].

Finally, we come to the verse which is the center of this brief article. Allah Ta'alaa says that ONLY the Dhaalimeen are punished, no one else. This verse refutes such ideas that are found in the religious traditions of others such as original sin, or the notion that God punishes 'seven generations" of descendants for the crimes of a particular society!

If such a notion was true- that God punished the descendants of a criminal, then the son of 'Abdullah Ibn Ubayy, the leader of the Madeenan hypocrites, who engaged in many intrigues against the Prophet Muhammad- upon whom be peace and blessings- and the Islamic state- should have been punished by Allah, and indeed by the Prophet himself- who was God's representative on earth. Yet, we know that the son was not punished, and even 'Abdullah ibn Ubayy himself was never tried or punished in this world.

This section of the Qur'an speaks to the important picture, the broad fate of civilizations who have not articulated spiritual values into their conduct or culture.

For those, living both within and outside of a spiritual [or spiritually lacking] environment, who have able to internalize the Divine principles, Allah says:

"... So whoever has Imaan {faith} and reforms, they shall have no fear, and they shall [have no reason to] grieve." { Q 6:48}

Understanding Qur'anic teachings: an Examination of the Functions of Virtue and Evil

2010-11-24T18:15:00.000-08:00

Understanding Qur’anic Teachings: An Examination of the Functions of Virtue and Evil

All of us can identify what we see as manifest evil in our world. Among the top of this, we can name murders, wars, rape, and other crimes. These are all acts which largely fall in the control of individuals. Philosophers would call these actions moral evil. The seemingly destructive worldview of many humans can lead to a loss of faith, in both God and humanity itself.

In a similar vein, natural disasters, such as what we have witnessed recently in Indonesia, can have the same affect. Indeed, many will point to natural disasters to “prove” that God does not exist! Disasters such as tsunamis, hurricanes, earthquakes, are all among the events beyond human abilities to control or direct, and as such philosophers refer to them as examples of natural evil.

God: The Ultimate Source of all events

In a world that largely depicts God and the Devil as equal co-potentials [even though they are perceived as representing polar opposites], it is understandable that there would be some confusion on the place of good and evil. We must admit that both inside and outside the Muslim Ummah, there have always been debates and differences among leading figures and thinkers on these issues.

The Qur’an says: “Praise belongs to Allah, who has created the Heavens and the Earth, and has made darkness and light [wa ja’aladh- dhulumaati wan Noor]. Despite this, the ‘Kuffaar’ ascribe equals to their ‘Rabb’ [Thummal ladheena kafaroo bi-Rabbihim Ya’diloon].” [Q 6:1]

The latter sentence clearly expresses a refutation of the idea of dualism, a Zoroastrian tenant which has influenced other faiths and philosophers. Dualism is the term that is used to explain the notion that God and the Devil both exist as equal co-potentials. The above Qur’anic verse shows that Allah, the most high, is the source of ‘darkness’ [Dhulumaat is actually the plural of ‘dhulm’, which can also mean ‘oppression’] as well as ‘light’. Similarly, in a Soorah that we have all memorized, a text that is recited when seeking protection from Satan [ Saheeh Al-Bukhari, 58:1805, Kitaab at-Tafseer], we are told to say, in part, to seek refuge with Allah “from evil which he has created” [ Min Sharri Maa Khalaq] {Q 113:2].

Struggles with evil are a tool for human development

To understand the Islamic perception on issues of this kind, we must treat the entire Qur’an as a united, coherent text, looking at the whole to understand its parts. The Qur’anic teaching is that God has placed humans in this world to have the role of Khalifah. We are to be stewards in this life that God has given us. Oftentimes, this role requires ‘on the job’ training, in order to be prepared for future challenges, in order to have moral, spiritual, material growth. In addition to this, as Muslims we have to remember these lessons, especially when there has been loss of physical life. This world is only the stepping stone into the next life, an existence that is eternal. Rather than loosing faith, we are to recognize that God alone is Al-‘Aleem [the All-knowing] and Al-Hakeem [The Wise]. “And put all of your trust [in Allah], if you are indeed believers.” [Q 5:23]

[Shamsuddin Waheed is Imam at Toledo Masjid Al-Islam, which has recently re-opened the historic Islamic Center at 722 E. Bancroft Street. More of his writings can be found at shamsuddinwaheed.blogspot.com.]

Questions on Islamic law: Apostasy, in light of Qur'an and Hadeeth

2010-11-17T11:16:00.000-08:00

The following is an old post I made on other sites, in response to questions posed about the usual notion that a person who decides to "leave Islam" is to be executed. The question seems to get repeated of late, so below is a brief statement on the subject. Comments are always welcome, thanks and Salaam.

Salaam all,

A] Islam is a faith of utmost intellectual and spiritual conviction. We know this when we have only a cursory look at the Qur'an. Repeatedly, it points to Ayaat [signs] in the creation, even in ourselves, as evidence of Allah's power as well as his being the source of the Qur'an.

[B] Yes, the Qur'an says "No compulsion in the Deen" [Laa Ikraha Fid deen]. The reason for that is "The right guidance is very clear, distinct from confusion or misguidance" [Qad TabayyanaR-Rushdoo min al Ghiyy]. Allah does not need our salaah, fasting, Shahaadah or any of that. We require those things. For our guidance and spiritual salvation. If Allah does not need our 'Ibaadah, then why should we execute someone?

[C] The Prophet [Sall-Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam] was, without doubt, the best Daa'ee. As such, there are very few reports in the hadeeth books dealing with the Prophet and "apostasy". Where such reports do exist [if we accept the reports as accurate & complete renderings of the events] we always see it in connection with something else. For example, there's a report that the Prophet executed "apostates" after sending them missionaries, at their request, but the report clearly states that the particular group laid a trap for the Muslim missionaries, killing them and plundering their goods. So, the punishment here was not for apostasy necessarily, but rather for murder.

[D] "Apostasy" was just another word for treason, or rebellion against the authorities. Such is clearly what occurred in the early days of Abu Bakr's rule.

[E] There has been debate for generations about some aspects of all this. For example, a Muslim who recognizes that Allah is One God, and Muhammad is his Prophet, yet prays only on fridays or the 'Eid [which is the case for many today], or, does not pray at all. Many would see such a person as an "apostate". My point being, if a government punishes people for "apostasy", it's going to be very subjective, and in the end accomplish nothing.

[F] Personal conviction and practice is, in the end,the business of the person and God. Unless he or she starts to attack Islam, with the purpose of destroying the UMMAH , we should leave them alone, both as a Muslim state and as individuals.

[G] Because of the logic inherent in Islam, there has historically been very few cases of apostasy. Moreover, in those days, all religious communities saw apostasy as punishable by execution, so it would have been logical for muslims to assume the same, even if never seen or done in their lifetime. It's one of those things people may never really think about because it never happens.

[H] Finally, back to the Qur'an. It tells us "And a party of Ahlil Kitaab asserted among themselves 'proclaim Imaan in that which has been sent to those who believe [meaning, pretend to believe just as Muslims do], in the beginning of the day, and [then proclaim] disbelief [wa akfurooo] in the night, so that hopefully, they [the Muslims] will return back [to Jaahiliyyah, i.e. reject Islam themselves] [La'allahum Yar ji'oon.] "[3:71].

Their plot was simple, this is a reference to Jews here, according to all Mufassireen. They would say the Shahaadah, etc.. and then "give it up", in order to demoralize the naive Muslims, convincing them that Islam was not a worth-while religion. The Qur'an clearly records their plot, something which scholars have acknowledged as well. Such a plot would be unthinkable had the punishment for apostasy [remember, this was in Madinah, where the Prophet was in charge] been the death penalty.

Any reports coming from the time of the Prophet, if we accept as accurate, are clearly with regards to treason, murder etc.. and not because someone was not intellectually convinced that he [Muhammad, 'Alayhis salaatu was salaam] was a Prophet.

Wallaahu A'laam,

wassalaam,
S.Waheed

Sacred Responsibility

2010-10-22T09:32:00.000-07:00

Friday prayer lecture [Khutbah] at Masjid Al-Islam [Toledo, Ohio] on proper religious focus. Also addressed are the Quranic concepts of Judgment Day and death. Well received. Link is below, and comments are always welcome.

http://noorulislam.podomatic.com/entry/2010-10-22T08_51_11-07_00

The relationship between the Qur'an and the Bible

2010-10-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

Video of discussion regarding the Bible and the Qur'an. Subjects include [A] Belief in revealed scriptures. [B] Reasoning behind the sending of numerous scriptures and messengers. [C] Qur'an vis a vis other texts. [D] Historicity of the Bible.

Link to the Podcast is below

[url]http://noorulislam.podomatic.com/player/web/2010-10-02T14_05_11-07_00[/url]

If unable to click, then copy/paste the site.

Blessed Ramadan

2010-08-20T15:53:00.001-07:00

As we enter the 10th day of the blessed month, let us take advantage of it while we can. Ramadan is the month in which the revelation of the Qur'an commenced, it is, according to Hadeeth narrations, a time of forgiveness, mercy and freedom from Hell. It's a time of deep introspection, and of improving our spiritual condition.

One of its most salient features is the Laylatul Qadr. A period, which we are told, is "better than a thousand months" [Khayrum min alfi shahr]. this expression, which appears in the Qur'an 97:3, denotes a benefit from a certain period that can last a lifetime, or even more than that.

We seek this period in the last ten nights of Ramadan specifically [although many suggest other times, even outside of Ramadan], but we have to be prepared for it. Fasting, charity, good deeds, more prayers and Qur'an reading all prepare ourselves for that opportunity, to have access to spiritual forces that can give us greater faith, confidence, drive in life, and- in addition, God-willing, Paradise.

May Allah allow us to get prepared, forgive our sins, accept our repentance, fasting and acts of worship.

What happened to Islaminview forum?

2010-07-15T18:45:00.001-07:00

Many of our readers are also members of the "Islaminview" forum. Its site is www.islaminviewforum.com. Three days ago, the site disappeared! All efforts to contact the host server [ipbfree.com] was unsuccessful, and today we found out that ipbfree forums has "disappeared forever". One site explains this further:

"I apologize, but I am legally bound to keep secret why everything is missing. Just know that there is a reason and we at iPBFree no longer have control of the situation. I'm sorry for the damage this has caused. "

I can understand even a falling out, or possible violations. What I can't understand is why no one was given a chance to retrieve any of their data before this happened. I guess the fact that the service was free means no accountability on the part of the company. Sad, sad world when the '**** you' is said to being considerate of others."

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100713203527AANyB0n

Who knows what happened, but it appears that unless someone at IPBFREE is going to recover the date somewhere, our forum, as well as thousands of others, are lost to posterity. This is sad because the discussions, posts and membership is top-notch, ours was a small forum, but one where everyone basically got along, despite religious, ethnic, cultural and class differences. Many people learned about various aspects of Islam there, our forum.

Now we have to decide whether to build another forum or to find some other means of sharing our thoughts, experiences and the like.

Any suggestions, kindly pass them along by posting a comment.

Salaam, Peace.

S.Waheed

Death: an Islamic perspective

2010-05-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

Introduction

The end of physical life, be that of our loved ones and even of our selves, is not a pleasant thought. It is a frightening reality that cannot be escaped. At best, it can only be delayed. It is an emotionally draining experience for the survivors of a deceased loved one. It is our intention here to share a summary of Islamic teachings on death, and its aftermath. This is by no means intended to be a comprehensive review of all the texts, nor does this writer claim to be mistake free in his understanding and perceptions of this most sensitive issue.

The ceasing of one existence in exchange for another

The physical body we have and enjoy will at some point cease to exist. The end is determined by God, in his infinite wisdom, and it happens only when it is appropriate for the deceased as well as for family/society surrounding that person[s]. The Qur'an says that it cannot be delayed or advanced, and will eventually catch up with us [Q 4:11, 40:68].

With the end of the physical existence in this material world, another one opens up. Known by many names throughout all cultures, this reality is called the Akhirah ["afterlife"] by Muslims, and indeed this is a designation given throughout the Qur'an. The physical body will not be making that journey into the Akhirah, rather it is the eternal, true essence [Nafs] of the individual that will experience the Akhirah.

The Nafs

The Nafs is the lasting component of the person. As mentioned earlier, it is really eternal. In this regards, it is important to make the following connections that can only be found in the Qur'an, the scripture given to the Prophet Muhammad, Allah's final Prophet and messenger to all mankind, the deliver of "all truth". The Qur'an commands Muslims in the following manner;

"And when afflicted with a calamity, believers say 'surely, we belong to Allah, and to him is our return."[Qur'an 2:156]

In Arabic, the sentence is Inna Lillaahi wa Inna Ilayhi Raaji'oon. This sentence has come to be recited even when losing an item such as keys and when annoyed. Yet, here we are concerned about the Qur'anic command to recite this, to recall this fact, when receiving or thinking about the death of someone else. Why should we recite this statement? Because it serves as a reminder to the survivor[s] that the deceased is in the presence of God, the possession of God. Such knowledge is important because according to the Qur'an:

"What is in your possession will vanish, and what is with Allah is lasting [Baaq]." [Qur'an 16:96]

Thus, while the physical host of the Nafs eventually deteriorates, the Nafs itself, the container of all that made that person unique, the good and the bad, the personality and the jokes, are all "preserved" in the Divine presence. This reminder should give solace and strength to the deceased, and we hope that when it is our turn to expire, we remember these Quranic assertions as well. God knows all the actions, beliefs, attitudes of all in his dominion.

The fate of the Nafs

While some faiths believe in reincarnation or in the migration of souls, Islam views each and every single NAFS as unique, in the same way fingerprints are, and has only one turn in this world.

It is the actions, morals etc..that play the greatest part in determining the fate of the Nafs. To use a scriptural analogy, if the 'scale of deeds' weigh in the best direction, then that person will have quite a pleasant fate, in what we call heaven or paradise. The one whose life has been spent in selfish pursuits, with no consideration for ethics and morals, with little in the form of good deeds to be placed on that scale, then their destination will not be the same as those whose scale weighs very heavy in the good deeds.

Then, he whose balance (of good deeds) will be (found) heavy,
Will be in a Life of good pleasure and satisfaction.
But he whose balance (of good deeds) will be (found) light - Will have his home in a (bottomless ) Pit.
And what will explain to thee what this is? (It is) a Fire blazing fiercely!

Qur'an 101:5-11

Descriptions of Heaven and Hell are figurative

The Qur'an repeatedly uses the phraseMathal ["expression", "parable", "similitude"] when describing the soul's fate in Jannah [paradise] or Jahannam [Hell]. References can be found in 2:25-26, 13:35 and very clearly in 47:15.

Moreover, when one thinks about it, the descriptions of paradise as having rivers, houses, springs, are all things we have to work for in this world. God uses such language to describe realities that we have not faced in this world. The same can be said of Hell, universally seen as a blazing fire. A fire is prepared, kindled, by the striking of rocks in the correct manner, by matches or fuel etc...! It is also 'earned'!

Perhaps heaven and hell are descriptions of soul perceptions, "projections" directed by Divine will due to the actions of the said soul.

Theology as a basis for heaven and hell

It should be noted here that the famous John 3:16 text of the Christian text, which basically assigns all non Christians to perdition, has no equivalent in the Qur'an. God created the Muslims and the Non-Muslims, and the Qur'an makes it clear that he cares for and nourishes all, including the Non-Muslims. Indeed, this fact is recited daily [Alhamdulillaahi Rabbil 'aal ameenin prayers.

The Qur'an tells us [ see 2:62, 5:69] that certain non-Muslim religious communities are essentially destined for his good graces. The reason is simple..their basic actions constitute the foundation needed for building a place in Jannah. The above referenced texts assert those prerequisites are belief and good deeds.

Now, it should be noted that this does not mean that the theology held by Christians or Jews are seen as correct according to the Qur'an. It only shows Divine mercy and justice, even in the midst of ideological errors. As I type this article, I am wearing a white shirt, but what if someone mistakenly says its black? Well, I can correct them, but even if they refuse the correction, should I hate that person? Would that be reasonable?

Returning to the criterion for God's paradise for a moment, the Qur'an also says “[God swears ] By the time, surely, humans are in consistent loss, except those who believe, do righteous works, and enjoin mutual [calling to] truth, and mutual [reminders of ] patience: [103:1-3]"

We hope to be among those whose scale is full of good deeds, of faith in Allah, receiving mercy and guidance always. Ameen!

New Releases from Arifin Imports

2010-02-09T19:40:00.000-08:00

Arifin Imports & Publications is proud to release on sale two of our newest items.

[1] [DVD] "Trees and Oceans, Allah's words". Beautiful, quality recording of a Khutbah that basically explains the awesome message, or philosophy, behind the Qur'anic verse "Say: if the oceans were ink, the oceans would be exhausted, but the words of my Lord would not be finished, even if another ocean were added for its assistance." [18:109]

This DVD also begins with a beautiful recitation from the Qur'an, and is highly suggested as a gift to a New-Muslim, Non Muslim, or just about anyone with an interest in religion, Qur'anic exegesis [Tafseer]. Sale price is $9.95 plus shipping and handling.

[2] Millat Ibrahim

Khutbah at Masjid Al-Islam Toledo Ohio, discusses the position of Abraham in the monotheistic religions, Pilgrimage, importance of traveling to attain spiritual growth and development, and a host of other issues. A clip of this lecture is available on YOUTUBE, at our channel Arifin publications.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIx0Bmeffng

This is also available for $9.95 plus shipping and handling. To order, please contact

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419-246-9697

Issues of the day

2010-01-13T04:20:00.000-08:00

These days it is very common to see aspects of "Islamic law" [Sharee'ah] brought up in media outlets and discussions with anti-Muslim elements [indeed, even among some Muslims on occasion], as a way to embarrass or ridicule the overall message of Islam itself, while at the same time maintain the "superiority" of the "Western' way of doing things.

Islam as religious practice and as a Political ideology are both seen as inherently inflexible, unable to function in modern society.Our intransigence has made us hateful, we are told, of the physical accomplishments of the Non-Muslim world, and manifests itself in "our" women wearing various "Islamic clothing" [everything from the Khimaar to the Niqaab], by 'fanatically' clinging onto five daily prayers, by having 'distinctive' architecture [ take for example the minarets traditionally attached to the Mosques, now made illegal in Switzerland] and eventually this intransigence leads to violence against some innocent third parties.

It is our intention here to present in a condensed form some thoughts on these issues, as well as what we perceive to be the genesis of the above.

Islamic Law vs. "Western" law [democracy/secularism]

Obviously, "law" to a Muslim encompasses a great number of things. It can refer to the prayer format [i.e. Qur'an recitation, prostrations, etc...] to the prohibition of Alcohol and Pork, all the way to the penalties for murder.

We acknowledge that the "democratic" legal tradition can be argued to be lacking when compared to the Islamic law in some respects, after all, with the exception of Murder mentioned above, there are no laws in any Western nation regulating prayer methods and dietary practices yet we have to also admit that the Qur'an does not give direct rulings on every single legal issue. Certainly, it contains prohibitions and punishments regarding theft, murder, embezzlement, etc... and does give some punishments that would be deemed unacceptable in a multicultural, modern world as ours. Cutting the hand of the [perpetual] thief, execution of rapists, a physical penalty for Zinaa are some examples.

The message of the Qur'an, the practice and the spirituality that emanates from the Qur'an, should not be misinterpreted or summarized just in the presence of exemplary punishments. That would be over simplistic. Every legal tradition evolved in a unique set of circumstances, and the presence of exemplary [or 'harsh'] punishments in the legal texts [for Muslims, the ultimate source is the Qur'an itself] only shows that there has to be some remedy available for extreme circumstances. Indeed, this has been historically recognized, in that theft [for example] was only to be punished by cutting the hand when a certain amount was taken, all of which depending on the particular case itself. This is the Muslim scholars approach. Even in the early days, during the reign of the Khalifah 'Umar ibn Al-khattab [d. 644 C.E.], famine swept the Arabian peninsula, so he [the Khalifah] deemed it unjust to punish theft, especially of food items, knowing full well the citizenry was in dire straits. May God be pleased with him, one of the wisest and most fair rulers of all time. The point being the Islamic message need not be seen as "rigid" and inflexible.

Besides, any legal system imposes limitations on what is allowed and what is not. If there were no such limitations in place, the system would be meaningless. So why is it that only the Muslims or their religion is seen as 'rigid'?

Muslims and Islam are sometimes two different things

This author has a "Muslim look" [beard, olive skin complexion], and a while back I was asked by some random guy on the street "why do you kill your women?' He also asked me "why do you force your women to wear all black?" It is true the guy was looking for an argument, but even in such circumstances I tried to be reasonable. Some women wear black as part of their cultural expression, but such choices are not mandated by the Qur'an at all. There is nothing inherently Islamic or Un-Islamic by wearing black. It is a neutral issue, a moot point, as far as the Islamic texts are concerned. This is the answer I provided for the guy, and also for you, our noble reader.

To outsiders, and sometimes even among us, cultural or personal choices are mistaken for Islamic! This has always been the case, and will continue to be the case, as long as humans remain human. Fortunately, we have access to the Qur'an, and in the modern world even access to the canonical works of Hadeeth, Fiqh, etc.. [thanks to the internet, book companies, otherwise such works would only be available to the scholars and specialists], so we can find out rather easily what is authentic according to Islam and what is spurious.

It is commonly assumed that 'honor killings" is sanctioned by Islam. Now, while segments of both Muslim and Non-Muslim societies accept it [ one only need to look at Egyptian Christians who engage in the same], no where in the Qur'an or Hadeeth literature can there be found any justification.

Sexual relationships are a sensitive issue, and the Qur'an advocates that such can be engaged in only within certain confines. It also tells us a legal punishment for those who violate that restriction, but it is apparent that the punishment is only in some extreme circumstances. This is because [A] To even make the charge in an Islamic judicial system, a minimum of four witnesses are required. If such are unavailable [and unless the act is taking place in public, they are never available anyways] then the one who makes the charge will be deemed unreliable as a witness for any future cases, and is open to punishment themselves. Please see Qur'an 24:4 [Ft.1].

[B] The Qur'anic punishment is suppose to be for both parties [provided of course the requirements are met as mentioned above]. The wording of the verse is Az-Zaaniyatu waz Zaaniy 'The woman and the man who has done Zinaa..'[Q 24:2], yet it is often imagined [and indeed, when 'honor killings' take place] that the female alone is to be punished. Besides all of this, there is no death penalty given for this.

So, even when there is guilt, when no evidence is available, legally nothing can be done about it. This is God's wisdom, which allows all the parties/families involved to address the issue internally, one way or the other. There is no need for putting all the dirty laundry out there. This wisdom is applicable anywhere, any place and any time. Alhamdulillaah!

Applying Islamic laws in the West?

There is a great fear that the Muslims in the West are a third column, ready to march on capitals, cutting off heads, whipping and amputating. This fear led the Swiss voters to recently ban minarets on Mosques in their country, even though its purpose is only for architecture. Some posters distributed by the supporters of the law asserted that minarets are ''symbols of Islamic fascism". The specter of fear was waved so much that people actually thought the Muslims in Switzerland were ready to take over and impose Islamic laws, even though the Muslims there are a minority.

Well, despite their fears, Muslims are already conducting themselves on the basis of Islamic laws. Our Marriages, funerals, rituals, fasting, etc.. are all done according to Islam, not according to the whims of voters. But as for the laws mentioned earlier in this post, i.e. for theft, Zinaa, etc.. no Muslim in his or her right mind would dream of such a thing in a Western context, for many, many reasons. The least of those reasons is that even in the traditional sense, Non-Muslims were exempted from Islamic laws anyways. Moreover, there are reasons that Muslims living in the West participate in the legal system prevalent.[ft.2]

Concluding thoughts

There are many elements out there, seeking to publish their views and push their agendas. In a world with so much information readily available, it is important that all people remain informed, educated and well-rounded. Such a position can actually reduce tensions, hatred and violence. Mutual understanding and wisdom in dealing with things are needed more so than armies, intelligence agencies and law enforcement. As the Qur'an says "Do not let hatred of a people towards you swerve you away from justice" [ Q 5:8].

Footnotes

[1] It should be noted that the Quranic verse actually says "and those who throw[Yarmoona] [the public accusation of Zinaa] against Al-Muhsanaat.."[Q 24:4] the latter word means "the goodly women", translated as "The chaste women" by both A.Yusuf 'Ali and the Saheeh international translations, shows that the principle here is 'innocent until proved guilty'.

[2] Please see our "Voting for the first time" at http://shamsuddinwaheed.blogspot.com/2008/11/voting-for-first-time-muslims-thoughts.html. Also of interest is this discussion at the Islaminviewforum site, called "Islam and Corporal punishment" http://islaminviewforum.com/index.php?showtopic=1040. This discussion is still open, to contribute to it, become a member of the forum.

Spreading Islam efficiently: thoughts on Da’wah work

2009-12-31T13:28:00.000-08:00

The Arabic word we use to describe efforts at propagating Islam is called “Da’wah”, it is a verbal noun that basically means “Call”. The word Du’aa, in which we invoke Allah, comes from the same root. We can make Du’aa in the usual manner, with outward palms raised, in the direction of our faces, reciting a particular invocation from the Qur’an and Sunnah, yet we can say that a good wish, such as “I hope so and so will be okay” is a Du’aa, because Allah hears the Du’aa, and can know our intentions and thoughts even when others cannot see them. Basically, in Du’aa we can offer it actively [as described above] or passively [as described in the latter portion of the above paragraph.]. Spreading Islam can also fall under these two categories.

Active Da’wah

By viewing Da’wah as a public relations or marketing campaign, there can be so much more potential for success. This would obviously entail organization, indeed, employing or utilizing the talents of professionals. Any business, political or cultural association will have only certain members out there as the ‘media face’, the folks who appear at press conferences, who will compose opinions for newspapers, speak at events. In this age of instant communications and visual stimulation, these sorts of actions are very important. So, to act in an efficient manner, Da’wah workers should have the following qualities. [A] Dedication to Islam. [B] Dress and speak well. With the latter, it may be prudent to practice or compose what will be said before going out to work. [C] Knowledge of the Islamic sources, as well as the local culture, politics, religions, and the like.

Now, it must be admitted that many times, our Imams do not fit these descriptions. They may have piety and have committed to memory many texts of the Qur’an and Hadeeth, but they have these ‘issues’ that are best not aired to new people. Therefore, it is prudent that the Imam-in many cases, depending on the local situation- stick to leading prayers and teaching, and not have such a public role. After all, as good as someone is, we all have talents and weaknesses. Such is life, and there is nothing to be ashamed of here.

If Da’wah workers are actually ‘going to the streets’ then they are to be armed with quality, but easy to read, Islamic materials that they are prepared to give away. Please don’t expect to give some regular Joe-Blow a copy of Saheeh Al-Bukhari on the first encounter.

Passive Da’wah

This is the sort of ‘calling’ that can be done by everyone, regardless of knowledge level, speaking abilities and the like. This “passive Da’wah” was often times exactly what attracted interest in Islam. From the Prophet’s character [as given in many reports] to the scruples exercised by Muslim traders in such diverse places as West Africa, India and Indonesia, ‘passive’ propagation of Islam left a lasting impression, which changed the lives of millions for generations to come. If our personalities are shaped by Islam, our actions regulated by Islam, that will go a long way. As an Imam, I have heard countless stories from people as to how interactions with Muslim co workers, students, business partners or relatives influenced their own decision to investigate the Deen. In “passive Da’wah”, every Muslim should have the ability to answer some basic questions about the fundamentals of Islam, preferably by answering with “The Qur’an says such and such” or “The Prophet said such and such”. Every Muslim should also have on his or her person some literature, just in case someone asks. Keep in mind that Allah gives guidance to who he wants, not who we want. Nonetheless, efforts on our parts will gain some blessing.

Abraham: father of all nations, a goodly model

2009-11-27T15:49:00.000-08:00

There is for you an excellent example (to follow) in Abraham and those with him..[Qur'an 60:4]

'Eid Ul-Ad-haa, Imams and orators worldwide undoubtedly mentioned the story of the sacrifice, as given in scripture, wherein Abraham was ready to take the life of his son in response to a vision interpreted to have been from God. Another theme usually explored is when he left his son and Hagar [Hajar] in the desert to fend for themselves. This particular narrative has it that during the process of searching for water for her infant son, Hagar ran bath and forth seven times, and at the end, almost in a miracle fashion, the well appears. Indeed, Muslims re enact this event during the Hajj [Pilgrimage] at the Safa and Marwa trails [which has now been included in the complex of the Masjid Al-Haraam], the well itself still giving water, known as ZamZam water.[Ft.1]

Yet, there is something to be said of other aspects of the life of Abraham, who is called in the scripture of the Jews and the Christians "father of all nations" [ Genesis 17:5].

Origins of Abraham

Called Ibrahim in Arabic, tradition has it that he was born in Southern Iraq, although there does exist other places, in Northern Iraq, Turkey and even Sicily. Regardless of where he was born, eventually he found his ways to such diverse places as Egypt, Palestine, and Arabia. Sites in all those places, not the least of which is the Ka'bah at Makkah, are associated with him.

Is there a lesson in these sites?

The Qur'an tells us a very interesting observation, one which should be associated with Abraham, but also with seekers of truth and guidance in all times, places and among all peoples.

"Have they not traveled in the land so that their hearts will come to understand, or that their ears will come to hear?"[ Qur'an 22:46]

Travel is very important, for the sake of religious or spiritual knowledge. This is something that seems to have been universally recognized, when we notice adherents of Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, going forth from country to country to study with respected spiritual figures. Reading books, or even studying at a local university, are all wonderful acts, acts which can produce blessings and appropriate information, but nothing can beat leaving the comforts of one's home and family for the sake of attaining knowledge.

The journey itself is a learning experience, be it meeting interesting people at airports, or having some time in isolation while in transit to deeply contemplate the pressing concerns of the body, soul and mind.

Whatever one thinks of Abraham, the towering figure in the three monotheistic traditions, this aspect of his existence cannot be denied. This is, of course, especially true for the Muslim, the reader of the Qur'an.

This author has done, and continues to, much traveling, and the above mentioned Quranic verse is very true. Many times we cannot process the information or insight someone gives us [or that we read in a book, magazine or website] until we have the same, or a similar experience, or a set of experiences.

So, on this occasion of 'Eid ul-Ad-haa[ft.2], let us try to emulate the goodly model present in Ibrahim ['Alayhis salaam]. Attain whatever knowledge we can from our scholars, books and websites. But always be prepared to learn something from one's one experiences, or the experiences of other people. There is much insight to be gained from travels of this nature.

Role of the Qur'an

The word Qur'an itself means a reading, a recital. It has the sense of "something put together piece by piece, part by part." This is a very appropriate name, as it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad [Sall-Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam] slowly, over a period of twenty-three years.

The Qur'an serves many roles, but for the sake of this article, we want to emphasis that it serves as a guide to make its reader a bit more sophisticated, well-rounded, knowledgeable. It is an undeniable fact that it can be speaking of theology for several verses, and then turn to a completely different subject such as war or marriage.

Those with broad knowledge in various fields, who have lived and traveled in many places, learning languages and cultures alien to their native backround, can appreciate such a guide as the Qur'an.

In issues not addressed in the Qur'an, God allows us to figure it out on our own, we can access some guidance or precedent in the reliable sources about the Prophet Muhammad [the last Prophet, and universal messenger], we can access guidance [or perhaps assistance is a better word] from our collectives experiences present in our culture, our personal reading of the situation [as well as our reading of the goal of religion] to ascertain the proper way to proceed.

In any case, all of that comes from having a broad experience, an open mind, open ears and open heart.

The Qur'an is very suitable for our guidance because we, like the last book of Allah itself, have been put together piece by piece, part by part. We are born as babies and absorb everything while growing up. Our parents and societies give us the foundation and much assistance, but there are times when we will have to learn lessons on our own, because our own mistakes will teach us how to act in the future. Our own actions will be suitable to serve as precedent, and each time that occurs, as far as the Qur'an goes, we can come to appreciate, nay, understand, texts better. It will grow in meaning for us.

Endnotes

[1] This author has examined in great detail the Qur'anic presentation of Abraham's story of the sacrifice in the work The Languuge of Revelation [pg. 237 "Abraham"]. To obtain, go to www.arifinimports.com

[2] The significance of the 'Eid-Ul Ad-haa occasion has been addressed in a lecture and Q & A session called "The story and sacrifice", available for free at www.esnips.com/web/shamsuddinwsStuff.

Enhancement: the goal of Islam

2009-11-04T07:02:00.000-08:00

"The best of you in [the days of] Islam is also the best of you in the days of ignorance" [Hadeeth, related in Bukhari, Al Adab al Mufrad 7: 71:129]

There is a great emphasis on change in today's world. It's a powerful word that everyone uses. The winning slogan in [then] Presidential candidate Barack Obama's campaign was his assertion "Don't tell me we can't change."

For those who have a distrust of Islam and Muslims, change is something to fear. They assert that when people accept Islam, they "change" into candidates for violence. At the very least, when dietary practices, dress and even names are altered by Muslim converts, these folks express fears even about those changes. I can recall reading online a statement that all who accept Islam freely "must have mental problems."

Muslim writers and leaders often adopt quite the opposite approach. They are quick to say "Actions must change." This or that "must change"!

Certainly all of this is in the eye of the beholder. We hope to examine a bit the foundation of Islamic practice, as found in four of the five pillars [ the first pillar will not be examined in this post, however we do recommend reading Shamsuddinwaheed.blogspot.com/2008/10/only-one-god-forgotten-aspects-of.html]

The best of you in Islam was also the best during the period without Islam

The Hadeeth quoted at the beginning of this post shows us that Islam is not [by necessity, anyways] about change. It is about enhancement. Its distinguishing characteristics are the pillars of Islamic practice, and it will be seen that all of them serve to emphasis- in some fashion or another- various morals, ethics and practical benefit, they are not without meaning.

Salaah

Offered a minimum of five times daily [dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and evening], it is described by the Qur'an itself as having the ability to "restrain from hateful, shameful activity" [Q 29:45]. Apparently, a person who offers the Salaah with full awareness and consciousness will be less likely to enter into activities that are illicit, immoral or otherwise harmful. There is no coercion involved here. No fear of the police or of vigilantes. The person's awareness of God is enhanced by connecting with the Divine reality by the method of Salaah, a connection or awareness not easily dismissed or forgotten. In addition to this, there are some other benefits as well;

[A] Discipline: Salaah is to be observed at stated times, if offered at other times, it is considered "late" and not having the same merit or blessing as when performed at the stated times. If a Muslim can have the discipline to offer prayers five times daily, which also involves physical preparations [i.e. being in a clean state and making Wudoo' [ablution] beforehand], then he or she can have the discipline for any secular pursuit in life as well. A Muslim conscious of praying "on time" will also be "on time" for work, completing study/work tasks in a timely manner.

[B] Education: In Salaah, we mainly recite the Qur'an. This is very powerful, especially in congregation [Jamaa'ah][ft.1], when the prayer leader [Imam] recites texts that may be unfamiliar to the ones praying behind him. The Qur'an speaks to many subjects, and actually integrates seemingly unrelated subjects, so the prayers act as a sort of learning session, making the Musalli [the one praying] learn, become more well rounded. This is especially true of the Taraweeh prayers, offered in the evenings during Ramadan, wherein the entire Qur'an is often recited.[ft.2]

[C] Feeling of brotherhood

Much like the Hajj, Salaah is an equalizer. Rich and poor, black and White, all standing shoulder to shoulder, performing the same actions, reciting the same texts, the same rituals in the same language. In fact, there are several narrations in the Hadeeth literature which has the Prophet Muhammad instructing that there should be no gap between the praying people, because Satan can take advantage of that. Meaning, it's something that brings people close, whereas Satan seeks to divide.

Zakaah

The spiritual an societal benefits of paying 2 1/2% of one's wealth are obvious.

The offerings given for the sake of God are [meant] only for the poor and the needy, and those who are in charge thereof, and those whose hearts are to be won over, and for the freeing of human beings from bondage, and [for] those who are over burdened with debts, and [for every struggle] in God's cause, and [for] the wayfarer: [this is] an ordinance from God - and God is all-knowing, wise.[ Q 9:60, Muhammad Asad translation]

In an Islamic society, this can be collected as a tax and distributed according to he guidelines of the above Qur'anic text. In a Non-Muslim society, the Zakaah is usually given to Mosques or organizations who then distribute it according to the guidelines of the above verse. I believe it's especially meaningful to pay Zakaat while living in a Non-Muslim environment, because it makes the Muslim think, contemplate on who and what is most deserving of these funds.

Zakaah has the meaning of purification. Islam teaches that all personal wealth, even when legally and morally acquired, has a societal due. Hoarding is something not looked on favorably in the spiritual realm. The Bible reports Jesus, upon whom be peace, as saying

Sell your posessions and give to the poor…For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.“ Luke 12:22-34.

The distribution of Zakaah goes a long way in combating starvation, famine and the like. In addition to this, Zakaah funds can be used to address societal needs as well, such as education. Resources dedicated to this purpose are generally given the name Sadaqah Jareeyah [perpetual charity].

Funds that exceed the minimum requirements, called Sadaqah, are also given during times not generally considered. The Qur'an gives a "remedy" to personal transgressions by engaging one's wealth in Sadaqah. Below is a verse speaking about Dhihaar, a divorce practice observed by the Pre-Islamic Arabs in which a woman was denied both marital rights as well as the right to seek another marriage, leaving her in a limbo. Now, the Qur'an outlawed this practice, and gives the following guidelines to those Muslims who had done this.

And those [men] who pronounced Dhihaar to their wives and recant their declaration, they must [A] Free a captive before touching each other. This is what you are admonished to do, and Allah is aware of your actions. So, those who do not find [the means to free a captive] should [B] Fast two months before touching each other. Those unable to do that should [C] feed sixty poor people [Sitteena Miskeena]..."{ Q 58:3-4}

Thus, Islam joins personal salvation with societal development and assistance.

Siyaam-Fasting

The Qur'an [2:183-185] tells Muslims to fast in the daylight hours of the lunar month of Ramadan. Fasting encourages us to be more conscious of the struggles others face to even eat once a day, thus, encouraging us to be charitable and distribute food to the needy.

Fasting is also a discipline building exercise. It should teach us to give up excess waste, junk food, cigarettes, vain talk, and strengthen personal morals. All of this and more can be found in the Quranic statement regarding the purpose of fasting, given in the words La'allakum Tattaqoon [So that perhaps you will gain Taqwa. Q 2:185]. The word La'alla shows us that there is a possibility of failure in accomplishing this goal, which is why we are to fast again and again. The Qur'an mandates the Ramadan fast, but we can also engage in voluntary fasting, to build up our morals, and above all the main thrust of Taqwa, to become closer to God.

Hajj

This is the last, and arguably a conditional pillar of Islamic practice, in the sense that one is obligated to make the pilgrimage to the site of the Ka'bah, built by Abraham and his son for the purpose of worshiping God, when financial and physical means are available. The Ka'bah is located in Makkah, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

During Hajj, we are once again made equals. The White seamless wraps, called the Ihram, does not allow that one's financial or education status be recognized. The King and the pauper both endure the same struggles, performing the same rituals, and each learning something, be it about others and their needs, or of a personal nature, that they were suppose to learn. This is why we have a tradition in Islam, attributed to no greater a figure than the Prophet Muhammad himself, upon whom be peace and blessings, that a successful Hajj [pilgrimage] wipes out prior sins, a person is renewed, pure as if a new born baby.

A recent study shows that returning pilgrims are 22% more likely to see Non-Muslims as equals, twice as likely to condemn terrorism, and 8% more likely to hope their daughters would adopt professional careers. [ "Muslim pilgrimage; a journey towards Tolerance?" Think; the magazine of Case Western Reserve University, Fall/Winter 2009 edition, page 18]

Conclusion

The foundation of Islamic practice is one that places emphasis on personal development, enlightenment, charity, sobriety and every other good characteristic. Islam is wrongly associated with violence and criminal activity. The recent death of a Detroit Imam, Luqman Abdullah, and the arrest of several of his supporters has once again brought the idea that Islam and criminality are linked to the public. One charge alleges that Abdullah gave legitimacy to theft, on the grounds that as long as they prayed and the thefts "benefits Islam", it was legitimate. Given the public works and reputation of the deceased Abdullah, the charges are very suspect, but nonetheless in terms of what Islam teaches, it's pillars hold up people's hearts and minds to always be conscious of Allah, of one's personal responsibilities and societal responsibilities.

Islam is a tool from God that can enlighten all who wish it, who actively seek it. This does not mean we will become monks, nor does it require that we give up enjoyment in life or comforts. It simply means that we train, that we refine the goodness that is present in the hearts of all humanity, utilize that goodness, apply it in both a systematic and random manner. Random acts of violence can become random acts of kindness.

Footnotes

[1] Congregational prayers are highly preferred, especially the obligatory ones, which can be done in a Mosque or with a group anywhere. One Hadeeth describes it as being "twenty-seven times greater than prayer alone." [ Bukhari, 10:30]

[2] The Shi'ah Muslims do not follow this practice, instead, their tradition places emphasis on individual prayer at night [in contrast to communal]. They do, however, gather together in Mosques to read the Qur'an together in the nights of the Ramadan month.

Arifin Imports and Publications

2009-10-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

It is my pleasure to formally announce the opening of Arifin Imports & Publications. Our mission is to provide quality items relating to the teachings of Islam, Muslim culture and history, while being faithful to the text of the Qur'an and Sunnah and addressing realities in a Non-Muslim or Western environment.

To that end, our products include lectures available on CD and DVD, as well as books. Our library is continuously expanding. We will endeavor to provide only quality items, which will quench the intellectual and spiritual thirst. Wholesale orders are also accepted. To be added to our mailing list or for a physical list of products, please send a request to admin@arifinimports.com.

Prices are very reasonable, payments are accepted through both credit cards, Pay Pal, as well as check/ money order for your convenience. The link to the site is below:

http://www.arifinimports.com

In addition to this, we also have a You Tube channel, Arifin Publications, with several free lectures and clips from presentations/lectures:

Our mailing address is below:

Arifin Imports & Publications
P O Box 70617
Toledo, Ohio 43607
419-246-9697

The guidance of religion vs. personal whims

2009-09-10T10:43:00.000-07:00

Islam is a faith that asserts itself, in very clear and strong language, to be a faith that is completely detailed [Qur'an 6:114]. The last verse revealed to the Prophet Muhammad himself, Sall-Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam, asserts that Islam has been chosen, perfected, and completed by God himself, in the time of his final Prophet [Q 5:3]. This completion becomes evident even in the midst of the existence of Muslim sects, in the sense that despite our [minor] differences, our essentials are identical, as well as having the same book, prayers, charity, pilgrimage, etc.

Since Islam was perfected in the time of the Final Prophet, essentially it means that if we really believe, then we have to accept as Halaal [lawful] what is given in clear terms as Halaal in the Qur'an and Prophetic example [Usawtun Hasana] and to avoid that which is clearly given as Haraam[unlawful] according to the Qur'an and Prophetic model.

In this regards, it is important to remember Allah's statements;

''And obey Allah, and the messenger, so that perhaps you will receive mercy." [Q 3:132]

Whosoever obeys the messenger [Muhammad], obeys Allah. Therefore, if any turn back, We [Allah] have not sent you as a watcher over them." [Q 4:80]

To call one's self a Muslim, one is to have confidence in all the contents of Divine revelation as useful, beneficial and blessed. To replace something that is clearly supported or endorsed by the Qur'an and the Prophet for a tradition or idea whose roots lie in another faith or thinking pattern is almost tantamount to rejecting Islam itself,as if to say that particular idea is superior to the contents of the Qur'an and Prophetic model! We seek God's protection from that!

Islam: a realistic faith

In a world where individuality is the name of the game, religion has been reduced, in many ways, to the following forms.[A] Ethnic or racial identifier. [B] A series of personal rituals and beliefs designed to bring about personal satisfaction, a contentment that is comparable to the euphoric feelings brought about by drug use.

In addition to this, we must mention "interpreting for one's self." Often this slogan, which has its roots in Western religious culture from the times the Bible was not allowed to be translated, so that when it became available people wanted to 'understand' for themselves, which in itself is not a problem at all. However, it does become a problem to interpret in such a way that clarity is replaced with ambiguity, leaving the doors open for all sorts of vices as well as incorporating foreign concepts into one's practice and understanding of Islam.

Take for example the Quranic allowance for physical fighting. Many verses from the Qur'an speak to this, but for the sake of space only one will be quoted here;

Fighting is ordered for you, and you dislike it. But it is possible that you dislike a thing which is good for you, and that you love a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows, and you do not know .[ Q 2:216)

Other verses that speak to this reality, and the conditions for it, can be found in 22:39,40, 2:190,9:41,61:11-14 and many other references.

We fear that some Muslims are actually embarrassed by these verses, perhaps due to inferiority complexes, brought about by arguments of the Christian missionaries, who continually assert that Jesus Christ was passive, even in the face of great opposition, and that such a position is better in the sights of God[Ft.1]. Another reason for such a view is that contemporary figures who avoided a response by the hand have been touted in the Modern world as having made their particular causes successful. This argument is weak at best, as it can be argued that their successes are perceived and not real. The Dalai Lama comes to mind here.

If something as clear as fighting [when necessary]as given in the Qur'an can be rejected by interpretative gymnastics, where do we stop? Will the Qur'an be used to give legitimacy to the idea that Jesus is God? Will we have to hear, all of the sudden, that there are in fact many gods?

These examples are actually becoming real in our times! One example is that of Alcohol. The Qur'an calls it " a product of Satan's work"[ Q 5:90], that it has benefit, but "its sin outweighs its benefits."[ Q 2:219]. We are also told " so, abstain from it [alcohol and gambling] so that perhaps you will be successful." [latter part of Q 5:90]! Yet, believe it or not, many "Muslims" today actually assert that Alcoholic consumption is Halaal because the word Haraam is not used in the above referenced Qur'anic Ayaat!!!

Allah's Deen is serious business. It should not be interpreted by whims. Meaning, if a person drinks, well, that's a weakness that has to be addressed. But that does not require that one engage in dishonesty by claiming the text says "yes" when it clearly says "No".

We don't call for violence or extremism. Nay, we are calling for intellectual honesty. If Islam says such and such is legitimate, then that's the way it is. If Islam says that such and such is immoral, is wrong, well, that's what that is!

No one is perfect, all of us have faults and weaknesses. Why try to change the guidance of Allah, rather than looking at ourselves and changing in accordance with the guidance of Allah?

"And who is worse than one who has as a god his passions." Q 45:23.

Footnotes

#1= The following polemical article was composed by a Christian missionary, as a means to show their view that Islam is inherently violent, while Christianity is inherently peaceful. http://www.answering-islam.org/Authors/Arlandson/sword.htm. In any case, while the Gospels portray Jesus as passive, it also portrays him as taking rather drastic actions, such as overturning the money changers tables in the temple [ Matthew 12:12-13] and asserting that he has "come with a sword" [Matthew 10:34].

Problems in your Masjid? thoughts on the Mosque in Islam and Western society

2009-08-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

The Mosque in the West

It should be noted, first and foremost, that the role of the Masjid [Mosque] in the Western context is very different from that in the Muslim world. In the Muslim world, the mosque is simply a place of prayer.Some Mosques will have funeral services, and of course students may take it as a quiet refuge to study, but essentially it ends at that.

In the United states, the Mosque has these roles and much more. It serves as a symbol of Muslim presence and culture, as the picture above shows. It is of the Shah Jahan Masjid in Woking [Surrey], United Kingdom. Marriages are performed, as well as various social gatherings, dinners, counseling, community work, political organizing, and so much more.

In short, the role of the Mosque in the West is the same as that of the Church. The Imam gives advice, marriage counseling, plays a role in local politics, in the same manner as the Pastor of the local Church. It's not an issue of right or wrong, this is just a reality.

Problems in the Masjid

In the Muslim world, the Mosque is basically on every corner. Generally speaking, it is also maintained and controlled by Government ministries, so the 'average' person has no role or responsibility in the Mosque. He [and almost never 'she'] will attend Friday prayers, and perhaps some of the daily prayers, in Jama'ah at the local mosque, and leave it at that.

Sectarianism in Mosques does exist, however it's very limited and varies from nation to nation. In places such as Pakistan, where the Sunni/Shi'ah divide is multiplied by sub-divisions, political and personality issues, attending the Mosque can be actually dangerous, as repeated bombings of Mosques, prayer gatherings and funerals show.

In places such as the United states, sectarianism is further complicated by class and ethnic divisions, which is dealt with two broad solutions..

[A] In small towns, Muslims of all sects and ethnic backgrounds will worship in the same mosque.They will offer friday prayers at the most convenient location.

[B] Muslims of the same sect or group, such as Shi'ah, Salafi, upon having sufficient numbers, will form their own mosques. Now, while Muslims outside of these groups are welcome, it is understood that this particular mosque is dominated by one school or ethnic group.

What next?

In the two 'solutions' given above, at some point problems, both on an individual and communal level, develop. It is unavoidable. When people of various thinking patterns, understanding of religion, as well as having different personalities, are enclosed in small spaces, feelings get hurt. Resentments form. Sometimes there are power struggles. Such problems are almost unheard of in the Muslim world, but they are an unfortunate reality in the Western context. Such problems exist even among followers of the same sect or same ethnic group. All of us think 'our way' is the correct model of Islamic practice and theology!

At some point, it becomes necessary for us as individuals to figure out what is beneficial to us in terms of our Islamic practice and spirituality. If we go to places where we don't feel comfortable for reasons, such as those mentioned in this text, we can easily find another Mosque. Another solution can be to limit one's participation to friday prayers only [after all, Friday prayers are obligatory according to the Qur'an 62:9] and avoid the politics. Sometimes, our boards and Imams need some perspective. Give them advice.

Religion is sincere advice [or sincerity, Naseehah in Arabic], [for the cause of] Allah, to the messenger, to the leaders of the Muslims and to the general public. [Sahih Al-Bukhari, 2:42]

Remember that the entire Earth is a Mosque [Sahih Al-Bukhari,8:56], prayers can be conducted anywhere that is clean and reasonable. We living in the West, especially having children, use our Mosques not only for prayers, but as cultural hubs, as sanctuaries and the like. So, just leaving it is not easy. Deep contemplation is required, as well as knowing the situation of other Mosques, before making such decisions. Seek Allah's guidance, and he will give you direction.Consider all options.

Ramadan Al-Mubaarak: thoughts on the fasting month

2009-07-25T21:24:00.000-07:00

The above Arabic title stems from the traditional greeting "Blessed Ramadan" [Ramadan Mubaarak]. Certainly even the most non-observant Muslim finds the month of Ramadan to be one of great joy, laughter and family gatherings. Perhaps its cultural impact can be compared to the feelings Americans, even Non-Christians, have during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

We are always questioned by our colleagues on the type of fasting, the motivations behind it, and finally "How can you do it?". It is seen as an exercise in futility,unnecessary hardship and outright ridiculous by many people. It is my hope to share some useful information on this institution found in Islam.

Fasting

We abstain from food, drink and sexual contact during the daylight for a month-long period. This is an obligation on every Muslim, with exceptions for the ill, those who cannot survive without consuming something [such as diabetics], and a few others. The Qur'an gives the following command regarding the fast [called Siyaam in Arabic] as well as the reason behind its legislation;

O you who believe, fasting is ordained for you, as it was on those before you, so that perhaps you will become [more] God-respecting [La'allakoom Tattaqoon][2:183]

The focus is on Taqwaa, a word that is very hard to translate with just one or two English semi-equivalents. It is usually rendered as piety, however as a word, piety is very limiting. Taqwaa carries the meaning of respect, fear, duty, responsibilities, and caution.

Fasting is a very private form of worship, in the sense that a person can easily hide the fact he is not fasting, and just as equally hide the fact that he is fasting.

So, we see why the fasting has been ordained.

The traditional practices

In order to be able to function through the day, we are encouraged to have a meal before dawn, when the fasting officially starts. This breakfast is called Suhoor [Sehri in Urdu]. At sunset, when the fasting period ends, a snack of dates [or some other fruits and vegetables] precedes the dinner. Eating dates is not an obligation, but it has entered our practice on the basis of the Prophet Muhammad's manner of breaking the fast. The dinner itself is usually called Iftar.

As the Qur'an's first revelation to the Prophet [upon whom be peace] occurred in Ramadan , we also generally make it our business to read the entire Qur'an in the month. Besides that, people offer prayers more, and give more in charity.

Effect of fasting

One must understand that fasting in Ramadan is not for diet reasons, to follow some hype, rather the motivations are spiritual. Reading the Qur'an while fasting makes us re-examine our lives in light of what God instructs us. We are to avoid even those things we knowingly engage in, such as gossip, arguments, backbiting, immoral surroundings [that can be found in Television, Music etc..] lust and the like.

Fasting with consciousness makes the person a better human being. It also makes him spiritually stronger, which can influence the physical strength as well, even though the intake of food/drink has been limited. Muslim history is full of victories on the battlefield happening during that month.

That is what I want this year, to be able to gain from reading the Qur'an while fasting, to strengthen morals and get rid of any vices. To engage in an honest self-assessment. May Allah give us all the same. Ameen!

The words of Allah are inexhaustible

2009-07-04T23:35:00.000-07:00

“Say: If the sea were ink for [writing] the words of my Lord, surely the sea would be depleted before the words of My Lord would be depleted, even if we brought [another sea] like it for its aid.” {Qur’an 18:109}

This verse, along with a similarly worded statement in 31:27, which speaks of seven oceans being depleted before Allah’s words would become exhausted, is among the most beautiful expressions found in the Qur’an. Certainly there are many lessons that can be taken from this text, but for the sake of this brief composition we hope to focus on this; everyone and everything in creation is a ‘word of Allah’!

Every ‘word’ has a unique set of characteristics, just as every single hand has finger patterns that cannot be found in another person [i.e. fingerprints]. In this sense, no single ‘word’ has superiority over another. All of them come together to express the power, existence, and grandeur of the Sustainer of the universe. Perhaps a better analogy would be that of a book, any document or position paper. Many people become intrigued with the number of times a single word or phrase appears therein, while overlooking the clear intent or message the author attempts to convey throughout the entire text. Such an approach does a bit of a disservice to the text as well as its composer.
In saying that all humans, prophets and non-prophets, Muslim and Non-Muslim, and that all things in the creation, the trees, the animals, the sun, the moon, are ‘words of Allah’, it becomes important to qualify this assertion. To accomplish this, we have to examine the context in which the Qur’anic text under discussion is given. Immediately after the verse under discussion, we read

“Say [O Prophet!]: I am a man similar to yourselves [the only real difference being] inspiration has come to me, that your object of worship is really [suppose to be] the one [and only deity] [Ilaahukum, ilaahun waahidun.]].[Q 18:110]

While the ‘words’ in the form of prophets and scripture has ceased ‘writing’ [as the Qur’an itself is the final scripture, and its recipient Muhammad ibn ‘Abdullah is the final prophet], the ‘words’ in the form of personal spiritual strength, intuitive knowledge, teachers and the like will continue throughout time. After all, we ask Allah’s guidance every day in Salaah. We do not invoke him in a vacuum, nor is he absent from the word [Na’oodhoo Billaah!] If such was the case, prayers and supplications would be useless.

“Allah does not communicate with man, except by inspiration [wahy], or from behind a barrier [Hijaaban] or by sending a messenger, to convey to him what he [Allah] wills. Surely, he is the most high, the wise” [Q 42:51].

Thus, the communication from Allah is continuous, and comes in various ways. In the same vein, we come to understand the phrases “spirit” and “word” [4:171 etc...] in reference to Jesus Christ. Christians hold the view that he, upon whom be peace, was ‘the word of God’ in a sense that he was unique, leading to the supposition that he was Divine. It is true that the Qur’an has dealt with that idea repeatedly, but the use of the phrase “a word from him” shows us that Allah seeks to convey, in a polite and subtle manner, the fact that while he was indeed unique in many ways, he was still a creation of Allah, not sharing divinity. To put all one’s eggs in one basket, or in this case, one word, and then exaggerating the position of that word, is quite damaging spiritually. A person’s religion or spiritual life becomes dependent on an individual or a set of individuals, which can lead to exploitation, fraud, and even mental slavery! So, when dealing with the idea that Jesus [or anyone else] is Divine, remember that the position of Jesus in the sight of Allah is similar to that of Adam. He had no physical parents as far as we understand, but that does not make him divine! It makes him an object created by Allah.

The Qur’an is the word of Allah, having the final say on all theological and spiritual issues [Q 25:1]. Its very nature is such that reading it always provides some new insight or guidance, regardless of the number of times it has been read in the past. It is the ultimate scripture in many ways, not just because it is the final book. It is suitable for a guide for all people, at all times and situations. It is because of the Qur’an that we come to understand the position of ‘words’ in this world.

Such realizations give spiritual freedom, and allow us to be able to call a spade a spade. It creates a basis for making better decisions in all parts of life, to be just and fair not only to our selves, but indeed to all others as well, regardless of their religious label or skin color. May Allah make us able to read and understand his words correctly, and to translate those words into practical results! Ameen!

Are Muslims really collective ostrichs?

2009-05-24T05:55:00.000-07:00

{ft.1}

Introduction

Thursday evening I received a telephone call from a Muslim brother in another location. He expressed indignation at the recent arrest of four Muslim men in the state of New York for an alleged plot to shoot down planes and attack a Jewish Synagogue.

His concerns were, in essence, two-fold. [A] Our Masaajid [Mosques] are not speaking about a rise in violent extremism among members of the Muslim community. In his words "we only talk about the Qur'an and the Sunnah?" [B] Islam is spreading among people who have issues with modern life, 'anti-american folks' as he termed it. In addressing point B, It is sufficient to note both from personal experience as well as statistics that Islam is being embraced, more and more, by a comfortable middle-class. One example of a stable person embracing Islam has already been discussed . Certainly, one does not need to have a bias towards America to embrace Islam.

Do we really ignore the rise of violence prone extremism?

The answer to this is a resounding NO! Blogs, webforums, books, position papers and lectures produced by Muslims are all full of various conclusions on this phenomenon.This writer has personally sat in the audience of many Friday Khateebs delivering the khutbah addressing this problem, usually from a religious viewpoint, all calling for an end to religiously inspired violence.

I told the brother that perhaps at his Masjid the issue is not discussed because the Imams there do not see it as relevant to the needs of their particular audience. Moreover, an audience does not want to hear about negative issues every Friday at the Masjid from the Imam or Khateeb. It can be argued that the Friday Jumu'ah Khutbah should keep these sort of issues, if discussed at all, to a very limited few minutes, leaving the issue to be discussed in a more appropriate setting.{Ft.2}

So, Yes we are discussing this problem. The level of discourse will of course vary from one group to another, and the proposes solutions will also vary. Most of us always assert that the solution is a "return to the Qur'an and Sunnah", some say we have to become 'modern', but nonetheless the problem of religiously-inspired violence is on the radar.

Just what is the solution?

In the context of the broader Muslim world, if we want events such as suicide bombings to end, more justice and opportunities must be forthcoming from the elites. Poverty and oppression is the daily experience of many people, especially in Palestine. Such circumstance will naturally produce reactions. Just attacking the symptoms will not due, the causes must be addressed, with an interest in fair play. Occupation of many Muslim lands by foreign armies, such as in Iraq and Afghanistan, must also end, and allow for a truly independent government to be formed, one which will address the heightened tensions in their society.

It is worth noting that there will always be "crazies" out there, but in terms of addressing the root causes, they will have to be marginalized while the root causes are examined and addressed.

The latest plot

Returning to the Bronx arrests, I have to express my doubts as to exactly how serious was the threat. After all, we all know the expression about the boy who cried wolf. Take, for instance, the following paragraph from Friday's newspaper.

According to a criminal complaint unsealed Wednesday night, federal officials had been aware of the plot for almost a year and had an informant working with the crew. The FBI arranged for the alleged plotters to receive a non-functioning missile and bogus C-4 explosives. [USA Today, 5/22/09, page 3A '4 held without bail in chilling plot']

Does it really take one year for an attack on a place of worship? For the government to 'arrange' for them to take possession of these items seems a bit like entrapment. Moreover, the Imam of a Mosque attended by some of the alleged plotters occasionally was quoted in the same article as asserting that they were "poor and needy". Do poor and needy people have the time, interest, money or training to acquire, store and use these devices? Moreover, what benefit would they have gained for such an insane and immoral attack?

Certainly we don't know all the facts, but nonetheless I think these are legitimate concerns. Fear is a motivator, and on the surface, this appears to be one of those occasions. Perhaps it is conceivable that one or two individuals among them spoke of their frustrations [they were all convicted of crimes in the past] which led to their entrapment. Below is another article explaining a similar view.

Yet Another Bogus ‘Terror’ Plot
by Robert Dreyfuss

By now it's maddeningly familiar. A scary terrorist plot is announced. Then it's revealed that the suspects are a hapless bunch of ne'er-do-wells or run-of-the-mill thugs without the slightest connection to any terrorists at all, never mind to Al Qaeda. And finally, the last piece of the puzzle: The entire plot is revealed to have been cooked up by a scummy government agent-provocateur.

I've seen this movie before.

In this case, the alleged perps -- Onta Williams, James Cromitie, David Williams, and Laguerre Payen -- were losers, ex-cons, drug addicts. Al Qaeda they're not. Without the assistance of the agent who entrapped them, they would never have dreamed of committing political violence, nor would they have had the slightest idea about where to acquire plastic explosives or a Stinger missile. That didn't stop prosecutors from acting as if they'd captured Osama bin Laden himself. Noted the Los Angeles Times:

Prosecutors called it the latest in a string of homegrown terrorism plots hatched after Sept. 11. "It's hard to envision a more chilling plot," Assistant U.S. Atty. Eric Snyder said in court Thursday. He described all four suspects as "eager to bring death to Jews."

Actually, it's hard to imagine a stupider, less competent, and less important plot. The four losers were ensnared by a creepy FBI agent who hung around the mosque in upstate New York until he found what he was looking for. Here's the New York Times account:

Salahuddin Mustafa Muhammad, the imam at the mosque where the authorities say the confidential informant first encountered the men, said none of the men were active in the mosque. ...

Mr. Cromitie was there last June, and he met a stranger.

He had no way of knowing that the stranger's path to the mosque began in 2002, when he was arrested on federal charges of identity theft. He was sentenced to five years' probation, and became a confidential informant for the F.B.I. He began showing up at the mosque in Newburgh around 2007, Mr. Muhammad said.

The stranger's behavior aroused the imam's suspicions. He invited other worshipers to meals, and spoke of violence and jihad, so the imam said he steered clear of him.

"There was just something fishy about him," Mr. Muhammad said. Members "believed he was a government agent."

Mr. Muhammad said members of his congregation told him the man he believed was the informant offered at least one of them a substantial amount of money to join his "team."

So a creepy thug buttonholes people at a mosque foaming at the mouth about violence and jihad? This is law enforcement? Just imagine if someone did this at a local church, or some synagogue. And the imam says the people "believed he was a government agent."

Preying on these losers -- none of whom were apparently actual Muslims -- the "confidential informant" orchestrated the acquisition of a disabled Stinger missile to shoot down military planes and cooked up a wild scheme about attacking a Jewish center in the Bronx.

But according to a Los Angeles Times report, it is even more pathetic:

The only one of the four suspects who appears to have aroused any suspicion was Payen, a Haitian native who attended the Newburgh mosque. Assistant imam Hamid Rashada said his dishevelment and odd behavior disturbed some members, said the assistant imam, Hamid Rashada.

When Payen appeared in court, defense attorney Marilyn Reader described him as "intellectually challenged" and on medication for schizophrenia. The Associated Press said that when he was asked if he understood the proceedings, Payen replied: "Sort of."

Despite the pompous statements from New York Mayor Bloomberg and other politicians, including Representative Peter King, the whole story is bogus.

The four losers may have been inclined to violence, and they may have harbored a virulent strain of anti-Semitism. But it seems that the informant whipped up their violent tendencies and their hatred of Jews, cooked up the plot, incited them, arranged their purchase of weapons, and then had them busted. To ensure that it made headlines, the creepy informant claimed to be representing a Pakistani extremist group, Jaish-e Muhammad, a bona fide terrorist organization. He wasn't, of course.

It is disgusting and outrageous that the FBI is sending provocateurs into mosques.
The headlines reinforce the very fear that Dick Cheney is trying to stir up. The story strengthens the narrative that the "homeland" is under attack. It's not. As I've written repeatedly, since 9/11 not a single American has even been punched in the nose by an angry Muslim, as far as I can tell.

Plot after plot -- the destruction of the Brooklyn Bridge! bombing the New York Subways! taking down the Sears Tower! bombing the Prudential building in Newark! -- proved to be utter nonsense.

Robert Dreyfuss is a contributing editor to The Nation magazine, and the author of Devil's Game: How the United States Helped Unleash Fundamentalist Islam (Metropolitan).

Copyright © 2009 The Nation -- distributed by Agence Global

In any case, I hope this case will be watched carefully.

Footnotes

[1] One word for Ostrich in Arabic is Dhaaleem. The Ostrich bird puts his head in the sand, as shown above, so the name Dhaaleem implies a self-oppression or self-delusion.

[2] The Friday prayer's main purpose, according to the Qur'an, is "the remembrance of Allah" [Q 62:9]. Some argue that we should keep to a religious theme in the khutbah and avoid politics and the like all together. However, this position seems at variance with the practice of both the Prophet and early Khulafaa', who had no problems using it as an opportunity to share non-religious information of societal consequence. Many scholars say this is precisely why we traditionally divide the Khutbah into two parts, the latter part being used to discuss societal or communal concerns.

Label wars: the image of Muslims

2009-05-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

Although an on-going issue, the recent developments in Swat valley in NorthWest Pakistan, in which there is a state of actual war between the government and the "Taleban" [an issue far beyond the scope of this particular post] has once again brought into focus a more subtle conflict; the assumptions automatically made when certain labels are used when it comes to anything relating to Islam or Muslims.

Take for instance Miss Irshad Manji. An open lesbian of Indian backround, she is tauted as a "Muslim reformer" or "liberal". In her book The trouble with Islam, she expresses her feelings that parts of the Qur'an are not really from God, that the Prophet Muhammad [Peace be upon him] was a violent warlord, she has said publically that she does not observe daily prayers, yet she is tauted as "modern" "forward looking" in additon to "Muslim"! It is as if this is the image many would like to adopt as the acceptable Muslim!

So, if someone like Ms. Manji is an acceptable Muslim, an example for all to follow, then it stands to reason that anything else, such as daily prayers, attempting to live according to the values and guidelines found in the Qur'an and Uswah Hasanah [goodly model] of the Prophet Muhammad, God's last prophet and universal messenger, are all examples of "radicalism" "extremist" and 'fundamentalist thinking. A person who does not frequent the bars on Friday night, abstains from alcohol and casinos is a potential terrorist, a radical whose behaviour must be observed carefully by law enforcement agencies. A woman who dresses in a modest fashion must be oppressed, another victim of Radical Islam. One Muslim sister was asked while at a barber shop if she 'Liked' Islam! As if she would never want to, out of sheer conviction, be an observant Muslim!

It is very strange that all that is antithetical to Islam is promoted by those with certain social, financial and political motivations as the ideal for Muslim progress, both societal and as individuals, and that we should, in essence, be cultural Muslims, whose only practices should be avoiding eating pork, attending 'Eid prayers only [and having a Budweiser afterwards! ] and politically apathetic.

The struggle

We have briefly outlined the broad details of the label wars. The battle is taking place on websites, newspapers, books and op-ed pages. The goal is the minds and hearts of the Muslims everywhere, of all sects, races and educational backrounds.

I agree that there is an internal struggle within the Muslim Ummah in terms of defining extremism. I agree that many people have differing views on what extent one practice takes place over another, and on how we should live and conduct ourselves in society. This blog post here http://ibnatalhidayah.blogspot.com/2009/05/balance.html is a very good perspective on how to be a Muslim while at the same time maintaining equilibrium.

But none of that means we should just ignore the basic values given in religion. Certainly, those who intentionally and unregrettably preach ideals and conduct themselves in terms that are clearly outside of Islamic teachings should not be imposed upon us as models for "progressive" "reformist" Islam.

The basic values are outlined in the Qur'an. It was not sent to sit on the shelves and decorate the walls of our houses. It is a guide, something that is to be read again and again [which is clearly implied in the name Al-Qur'an itself]. There is a difference between honest disagreements in terms of its understanding and application versus deliberate attempts to make Muslims ignorant of their religion, to turn us into cultural Muslims only, having little or no connection to its teachings, practices or values.

Don't be a victim in the label war. Be armed with faith, practice and knowledge. Arm one's self with the actual, practical values of Islam. That is the best approach in handling this. This is the advice to our Muslim readers.

To our non-Muslim readers, we would like to remind you that Muslims are humans as well, with different perspectives, mental and social abilities. We may or may not represent the best of what Islam teaches. Therefore, do not judge Islam on what you hear or see from Muslims in the news, or from what they want you to hear.Judge on the basis of the logic and teaching found in the text, mainly the Qur'an. Do not read isolated verses. Seriously read it, examine the context of whatever desired texts in order to have a better perspective on the message. At the very least, it is our hope that such reading will allow the reader to ignore the label war all together, to not be fooled by oversimplistic assertions.

Multifaith council of Northwest Ohio's dinner

2009-04-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

Held at the Congregation B'nai Israel in neighboring Sylvania, about 300 guests attended, and included tables and presenters from the Muslim community, Christians of various sects, Sikhs, Jains, Hindus and a variety of other religious groups.

It was a very warm environment and enlightening experience, I learned much from discussions with the various leaders.

Now, describing the pictures a bit, from top left is myself giving comments and benediction, the sanctuary of the Synagogue, the flame at the top of the picture is symbolic of God speaking to Moses [ Musa 'Alayhis salaam]. Bottom left, with Miss Ann, one of the organizers, and at the bottom right, with our friends and activists Ahmed Kadri and wife Amirah.

The guest speaker was Peter Adriance, an NGO liason for the U.S.Bahais, who spoke on the relationship between religious communities and efforts for environmental causes.

There is more I could say, but don't know where to begin. Needless to say, these sort of events are good ways to learn about others, but also to share information about Islam. We show ourselves as humans, and not fanatical monsters. That goes a long way.

Peace.

Christian/Muslim identity? thoughts on Rev.Ann Holmes Redding

2009-04-03T23:16:00.000-07:00

The Reverend Ann Holmes Redding was recently fired from her post of two decades as an Episcopal minister. Certainly this was not unexpected, due to the fact that for the last three years or so, she has been a practicing Muslim, having taken her Shahaadah [declaration of faith, which acknowledges God's oneness and Muhammad as God's messenger and Last Prophet], and saw no conflict between Christianity and Islam. She is quoted as saying " When I took my shahada, I said there's no God but God and that Mohammed is God's prophet or messenger. Neither of those statements, neither part of that confession or profession denies anything about Christianity." [ http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/04/02/muslim.minister.defrocked/#cnnSTCText].

Sister Redding is to be commended for standing for her principles and her beliefs. It is also understandable that the Episcopal Church would take the step of removing her status as a minister, and it seems they did so in a respectful way. They referred to her as a person of "great integrity".

Dual identity?

Although I must admit to a bit of confusion, it seems as if Sister Redding's approach to religion is one that combines elements of both traditional Christianity and Islam [as popularly understood] in forming her thoughts and practices. Until her sacking, she still conducted services at the Church, while she also observed the Muslim prayers [Salaah] at a local Mosque [see image above].

I also must confess ignorance as to whether or not she holds any of the views that are considered "orthodox" within Christendom, i.e. the divinity of Christ, the blood atonement, etc..! Regardless of her understanding of these controversial theological issues, her acceptance of Islam while maintaining a link to her Christian heritage does bring in mind questions as to whether dual identity in religion is acceptable, which this post seeks to address. It is my hope that the thoughts expressed in this post will generate much discussion and dialogue, as well as investigation into Islamic texts and theology by our Non-Muslim friends. We will avoid speaking from a Christian perspective, as a Muslim I would certainly be unqualified to do that. Rather, we will attempt to address these issues from a Qur'anic-bases perspective.

Islam: the path of Jesus and Muhammad

The name Islam or Al-Islam ["The Islam"] is not a proper noun, at least from the Quranic context. It is a Gerund [Masdar] in Arabic grammar. This means that is more of a description, rather than a proper noun. As a word, it means "surrender" or "submission" to God. This word Islam is very unique, as the linguistic meaning is not tied up in the personality or religion of a particular people [unlike "Christianity" which revolves around Christ, "Judaism" around the Jewish tribes, "Buddhism" around the Buddha, and so forth]. In the Bible itself, as it is today, we can still find Islam being taught therein. This may sound strange to both Christians and Muslims, but we would like to offer the following Biblical texts as examples of Jesus Christ teaching Islam. All Biblical quotes below are from the New International Version {NIV] Study Bible. [Zondervan, 2002 Grand Rapids, Michigan]

Now a man came up to Jesus and asked "Teacher, what good things must I do to get eternal life?". "Why do you ask me about what is good?". Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good, if you want to enter life, obey the commandments." 'Which ones, the man inquired. Jesus replied "Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself. Matt. 19:16-19.

The same source says that he was asked about the greatest commandment in the law. the response was "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and all of your soul, and all of your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it 'love your neighbor as yourself. All the law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." [Matt. 22: 36-40]

The commandments are a list of things to do and things to avoid. In other words, it's a list of actions that constitute Islam ["Submission"] and what falls outside of it! In this regards, it is very clear that Jesus [peace be upon him] taught Islam and was himself a "Muslim" [One who was submissive to God]!

The popular understanding of the words "Islam" and "Muslim" identifies with the followers of Muhammad and the Qur'an alone. However, the Qur'an itself shows us that there has never been any religion in God's sight other than Islam [ Q 3:19], and that an integral part of being a Muslim is to believe in all of the messengers of God without distinction [Q 2:285]{Ft.#1].

The issue of a 'dual identity' becomes mute if one understands the Biblical Jesus as one who taught submission to God. It becomes mute when we understand that Muhammad himself was teaching submission to God. The religion is the same one, albeit expressed in differing terms. One Hadeeth attributed to the Prophet Muhammad [Peace be upon him] himself states that the prophets are all from the same father, only having different mothers.[ [Sunan Abî Dâwûd (4324) and Musnad Ahmad (8902)].

Is there a difference between 'Biblical Islam' and 'Qur'anic Islam'?

To approach this question, it is important to know that most, if not all, of the various traditions within the bulk of Christianity [or popular Christianity] has little resemblance to anything Jesus said or did. Countless books, essays and position papers have been published by both Non-Muslim and Muslim writers on various topics. The Qur'an itself takes the position that the scripture of the Jews and Christians themselves have been subject to intense editing, to the point where it becomes almost unrecognizable as a book from God [Q 2:79]. In such circumstances, we have to say that the Bible we have today gives glimpses of what can be termed 'Biblical Islam' but ends at that. So much other material has been placed therein that the average person has no ability to distinguish what is indeed from "the presence of God" and what is not.

Despite that, the Qur'an has repeatedly told us that the Christians [and other people of religious traditions and scripture] will be rewarded twice [Q 28:52-54] meaning that God looks at their actions, intentions and faith, blesses them for it, and gives a double blessing by that person accepting and conforming to the Islam that is found in the Qur'an and preached by the Prophet Muhammad. When we see figures such as our sister Redding, the following beautiful Quranic passage comes to mind.

And when they hear the revelation sent to the messenger [Muhammad, meaning the Qur'an sent to him], you see their eyes with tears, for they recognize truth from their lord. They say "Our Lord, We believe, so write us down as among the witnesses.' And why should we not believe in God, in the truth which has come to us, as we hope that Our Lord will allow us to enter the company of righteous people. And so, God rewarded them with Gardens, with rivers flowing underneath, to dwell in it for eternity. And this is the reward of those who do good. Q 5:83-85

The Qur'anic Islam is one which is from God without any corruptions therein. The Book of Allah itself serves as the main item by which we distinguish corruption from Divine truth. The Qur'anic Islam is perfected [Q 5:3] and completed in the time of the Messenger himself, meaning there will be no other scripture from God, nor a prophet after the Prophet Muhammad. That boat has sailed, and while it is true that communication and guidance can still come in some ways, in terms of world prophets and scriptures, that will not happen again. The Qur'an is the final say on the position of Christ and all the other theological questions that continue to haunt Christendom. Sister Redding seems to have found that, and we hope that God blesses her as a result, and bless us with guidance, mercy and love. We don't have to label ourselves with various adjectives and hyphenated names. Jesus did not call himself a "Christian". If he were to accept any label, it would be as a submitter to God, or in Arabic, Muslim.

Footnote
#1= The meaning of Islam, Muslim, Kaafir and the Qur'anic style have all been addressed by this writer in essays published in The language of revelation. For details, contact the author.

Tolerance and Religious conviction: some thoughts on mutual respect

2009-02-13T22:02:00.000-08:00

This has been a subject that has been on my mind for a while, but have until now found it difficult to put in words. In the United States, as well as in other nations of the world where followers of varying faiths live with each other,key words such as 'tolerance' and mutual respect would seem to be common sense, a practical reality that must be observed, leaving differences to be addressed at their proper venues.

Yet, among our most active religious leaders, we find that sometimes their statements, especially in the presence of 'the other' is vary lacking, and outright worthy of condemnation. This problem can be named with a very common title, the Foot-in mouth disease. Statements can be made which cause great hurt, and the speaker can be heedless. This is a clear symptom of the disease.

Recently I attended a funeral, the deceased being an elderly woman, the mother of several children, one of whom being a Muslim. She was not a Muslim, and from what I have been told, was not a participant in 'organized religion', but nonetheless was given a traditional, largely Christian funeral. The [Muslim] son was one of many family members to speak, and he made a passing remark about his mother's character being such, that her guidance and encouragement actually pushed him [the son] to 'the path I am on'. Any honest observer listening to his brief comments would easily testify that there was no proselytizing of Islam involved. His comments were about his mother and the relationship they enjoyed.

Later in the funeral program, the pastor officiating the funeral stood at the podium and said

This young man says he's a Mooz-lim [sic], but Jesus is for them as well.Jesus is the only path to the Father.

The family was very upset, the Muslims were obviously offended, not to mention the Muslim family members [the grandchildren of the deceased].

Certainly this caused many people to confront the Reverend, who was unapologetic.I am not faulting him for believing what he believes, as that is his right as a human being, but there is a time and a place for everything, and to choose a funeral for expressing such views was inappropriate, to say the least.

What Venues are appropriate?

Conversations with friends, visiting houses of worship or study group gatherings, wherein exchanges, learning and debating may be appropriate, are all good places to start. With the advent of the INTERNET, this is much easier, as a person can join several religious forums, where every conceivable issue can be discussed in a safe, inexpensive and private manner.

To a conscious Muslim, this advice is nothing new. This certainly falls under the category expressed by the Qur'an in the following words;

Call to your Lord's path with wisdom and articulate reminders. [Q 16:105]

Insulting people or debating them at funerals, weddings and the like do not correspond with wisdom!~

Advice to Muslims

To those of us who have an Islamic appearance [Kufi, Beard, Hijaab], know that you stand out in your workplace, when you catch the train, conducting your normal routine. You have to always be conscious of this, and attempt to always act in a friendly manner. Even if you feel mistrust on the part of others, recall the Prophet Muhammad. One disbeliever used to throw trash on a path he knew the Prophet [upon whom be peace] would walk down, on regular basis, but when this person became ill, the Prophet visited and checked up on him. This changed the man's attitude completely.

You will sometimes encounter people who wish to 'save your souls for Christ' or for some other motives or movements. They may even make you their target market, especially if you are from a Middle Eastern or South Asian background. They may visit your home, hoping to share their beliefs, and may even leave you literature in Arabic or Urdu. Others will be very ignorant, hurling insults, while others will approach you with genuine questions about your religion. In all these scenarios, the following is given as advice:

[1] Be calm, yet strong and assertive.

[2] Know your Deen before answering any questions. It is also always important to memorize and quote from Islamic texts, the most important being from the Qur'an, in dispelling any misinformation or just for the sake of sharing information.

[3] When possible, always have some literature handy, in your car, planner or purse. This will be helpful for those you are speaking with, for their future reference. The following pamphlets are available free. These brief works are straight to the point, with understandable language and Qur'anic references.

The timeless religion
http://islaminviewforum.com/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=537
Women in Islam
http://islaminviewforum.com/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=842
[The author's blog is modernmuslimwoman.com]

An introduction to the Qur'an
http://islaminviewforum.com/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=379
[4] Refer your listener to the local Mosque, and be sure that Mosque has relevant programs available. If not, take the initiative and start such a program, having qualified speakers and teachers.

And Allah knows best.

The Purpose of religion

2008-12-27T11:41:00.000-08:00

Many view religion- and particularly a faith such as Islam- in terms that are a bit misleading. It's not an ideology in the minds of many of us, but rather [A] A personal or ethnic identity marker. 'This is what my parents were, so I am as well'. [B] A way to address or even escape life and its varied hardships and responsibilities. [C] As a way to be distinct from others, allowing isolationism.

The above mentioned reasons and others not mentioned here are often highlighted-in many ways inaccurately- by elements of the media to explain the rather phenomenal spread of Islam, particularly among Women and the Middle Class in The USA, UK, etc..! Oftentimes, Islam's spread is presented as something strange, like a virus that has to be stopped at all costs, attacking the weak and vulnerable in society, those unable to deal with 'normal' life, education, money, the opposite sex, etc..at nausea.

This particular thread of propaganda became most apparent to this writer while watching an episode of Law and Order. In this episode, a woman's rights activist is killed by a young Muslim convert [who sports a beard, Kufi and Jalabiyyah] for 'blaspheming Islam'. of course, he is captured by the authorities, and while acting as his own attorney, attributes his crime to 'defending Islam' from attack. His problems with women become apparent in his dealings with the female Judge and Prosecutor and informs his audience "Allah made men superior to women" and that "American women walk the streets of our holy cities with faces unveiled". The clip below is suppose to be an analysis of his 'condition'.

His 'condition' is used against him, digging up an old girlfriend, the prosecutors threaten to use the relationship against him, compelling him to accept a guilty plea and the sentence.

The reality of conversion [or 'reversion'] is very different for most people. That is not to say that there are not people out there who accept Islam [or any other religion] for escapism or some other mental need, but in general what attracts people to Islam is its intellectual appeal. It does not demand or expect blind faith and obedience. The Qur'an and Hadeeth literature both encourage the seeking of knowledge as a prerequisite of faith and devotion, points to creation itself as a sign of God's power and existence, and is itself not based on "miracles". There is no one to die for your sins or create wine from water, it places great emphasis on personal responsibility and accountability.

In any case, we wish to explore a bit as to the purpose of religion.

Purpose: for Allah alone.

A very succinct Quranic sentence tells us "Religion is exclusively for God" [Ala Lillahid deenul Khaalis] [Q 39:3]. There is no mention of using a religion to rebel from one's parents or to seem 'hipe'. This sentence tells us that when we accept religion or embrace religion, we do so because we believe it to be the path God has blessed with correct guidance. We follow it because we have been intellectually convinced of the veracity of its claims, that it will teach us about God, God's will for our lives, in short, how to properly conceptualize God.

But what else does the statement "For God" mean? We also say things like "In the cause of God" [Fee SabeeLillaah]. When we observe prayer, we say we do it "For God the most high" {Lillaahi Ta'alaa}. What do all these phrases mean?

To understand that, we have to understand that God does not need our prayers, nor our fasting. He does not need us to feed him [Q 51:57]. So, when we say "for God" we need to understand that after conceptualizing the Divine in the correct manner, as outlined in the Qur'an [ft.1], we become obligated to act correctly. By adopting the lifestyle and worldview that is asked of us by God, by abandoning racism, classism, or any other sort of negative 'ism'.

'A'ishaa bint Abi Bakr [Radee Allahu 'Anha] spoke of Muhammad, her husband and the Last Prophet, in a beautiful way. She was asked about his character, and she responded with "His character was the Qur'an [Kaana Khuluquhul Qur'aan].

If we accomplish this, internalization of the word of God, then these sorts of neorisis would disappear. When we say we should apply the Islamic teachings, we mean to say that all of the Islamic teachings should be applied, rather than selective.[Ft.2]

To accept Islam, we don't have to hate America, or to hate Christians or other peoples. We don't have to become bad copies of other people and forget our own histories and backround. To be a Muslim, we simply have to recall the following succinct Quranic verse:

Say:Surely, my prayers, my devotional acts, my life and death are all for Allah, the Nourisher of the Universe" [Q 6;163].

Footnotes

[1] See for example our article on Ayatul Kursiyy [The Divine throne] .http://shamsuddinwaheed.blogspot.com/2008/01/divine-throne-examination-of-ayatul.html

[2] This writer was once told by a non-practicing Muslim that if he saw his sister without Hijaab, he would "without hesitation put a bullet in her head". The irony in this statement is two-fold. [A] The dress code, whose interpretation is widely disputed today, is only mentioned twice in the Qur'an [33:59 and 24:31] whereas Prayer and charity has been mentioned perhaps hundreds of times, and [B] The Qur'an does not impose a death sentence for altering dress, only for murder [17:35] and creating social chaos [5:33]

Voting for the first time: A Muslim's thoughts

2008-11-04T08:27:00.000-08:00

I have a confession to make; today was my first time ever voting! I have been registered to vote for years, and have even been summoned to Jury duty [which I have yet to do, as logistics have prevented me in the past] as a result of being a registered voter, but today was a first for me. This may be strange to both Muslim and Non-Muslim readers, hearing how a Muslim woke up very early [about 5:30 am], showered and offered morning prayers [Salaat al-Fajr] and walked to a nearby Church with his Hijab-clad wife to cast the ballot.

The actual experience

The Polling station opens at 7:00 A.M., and I was expecting long lines, but we only waited about fifteen minutes, in contrast to reports I have heard from friends and brothers throughout the country, who waited for 2-3 hours in line to cast their votes. It seems that while irregularities have been reported here and there, in general the process has gone smooth across the board.

Why did I vote now?

In the past, I have been had an apathetic approach to politics. While I enjoy its study in theory, I had the belief, as do most Americans [even if they don't admit it] and others in the world [who will gladly admit it if there's not a Policeman nearby] that Politicians are deceptive in general, that the whole system is very corrupt, and that there is no hope of change at all. My vote will not count anyways, I believed, and in addition to this, I have flirted with the view that Voting in such a system may be allowed Islamically, but only by a thin thread.

I voted now because I believe that the conditions are apt for change, because people really want it! With the U.S. engaged in two wars, which benefits only weapon contractors, the economy in shambles, Insurance problems and Credit becoming increasingly harder to obtain, people are finally beginning to feel the pressures that others worldwide feel on a regular basis, and do not wish to continue on this course. Let us hope that our hopes for change are not in vain.

What about Islam: does it really endorse representative democracy?

Before I go into this subject, I think it necessary to add this observation; i.e. that while voting does take place in much of the Muslim world, it is a widely disgraced practice, as there may only be one candidate on the ballot, your 'no' vote to the ruling party magically [Cough, cough] turns to 'yes', and those who dare attempt to vote for another party or candidate will be visited in a day or so by some really mean looking gentlemen wishing to 'enlighten' that disaffected person. So, I believe that with such a background, it is easy for 'Ulamaa residing in the Arab world or in another location to tell Muslims living in the West to not vote. Here are some of the usual arguments:

[A] Islamic law does not endorse decision making by the masses anyways. There is only one law and system, the Shari'ah and/or the Khilaafah! Voting in the US or Britain constitutes Kufr! Allah is the only law-giver, and Muslims should rally around a khalifah!

[B] If we do vote, it should be only with regards to 'Muslim issues', such as Palestine and Iraq! Otherwise, let the Kaafireen worry about themselves! In this connection, I should mention that this position was adopted in Apartheid South Africa by some leading Muslim scholars, and fatawa were issued disowning Muslims in the anti-apartheid movement, on the grounds that the system in place at that time placed no restriction on Muslims offering prayers in the Mosques! In addition, 'working with the Kuffar' was also a catch-phrase accusation leveled at Muslims involved in Anti-Apartheid activities.

There are some other arguments out there, position papers and books detailing these sorts of views, but in general all of them revolve around the points noted above.

[A] The Qur'an has categorically endorsed collective decision making. Believers, we are told, are :

42:38 Those who hearken to their Lord, and establish regular Prayer; who (conduct) their affairs by mutual Consultation; who spend out of what We bestow on them for Sustenance.

The wording "Wamrahoom Shuraa Baynahum" appears here, in connection with prayer, which in many instances is a collective exercise in the Muslim community, and charity, distributed to the needy society. There is no restriction given here about where and how this should be practiced. In other words, just as Jumu'ah prayers are equally valid in San Francisco or Saudi Arabia, participating in the decision making processes are valid whatever the system, as long as there are safeguards to prevent injustices and such. This is not to say that injustice does not exist, we can see this even in systems of government that applies Islamic laws [Taliban in Afghanistan as well as the old Nizam-e-Mustafa system in Pakistan are good examples of misapplication], but it does not mean that just because a system has its origins or popular usage among Non-Muslims that it automatically becomes Un-Islamic or unacceptable to the Muslim community.

As for the wish to have a Khilaafah system, perhaps that may happen in the future, but I won't be holding my breath. It does seem prudent that Muslim nations form something analogous to the European Union [UN], this could be a body Khalifah. Organizations such as the OIC [Organization of Islamic conference] can very well act in this capacity, giving a united voice, free trade, loans and grants to each other, and a variety of other actions that will greatly improve our conditions, but perhaps that is also something that will not happen anytime soon. In any case, it seems that having a figure such as a Sultan or Khalifah for all Muslims is a unrealistic expectation.

Getting back to collective decision making, we are also given in the Qur'an instructions not to allow anyone to feel marginalized, to allow them at least a voice and a seat at the table. See Q 58:11.

[B] 'Muslim issues' is very limited, and actually acts as self-marginalization. Why should we not vote on issues that will affect our health care, local services such as Police, Fire departments, schools etc..? Muslims should have a say on all these issues, at the very least because the Qur'an and Sunnah likewise have something to say about all issues. As the Qur'an says "And we have omitted nothing from the Book" [Q 6:38] as well as "Today have I perfected your religious law for you, and have bestowed upon you the full measure of My blessings, and willed that self-surrender unto Me shall be your religion."[Q 5:3].

Using the example of South African Muslims, the issue of Race discrimination has always been a priority of Islam. Looking at the Qur'an, and seeing the many practical examples from the Prophet's own life. and his final address to the Muslims show us that those opposing Muslim participation in the Anti-Apartheid movement had actually internalized those racial ideas preached by the Racists! Islam is not just applicable when Muslims are a majority, but also while living as a minority! Wherever Muslims live, we should have the light of Islam in our actions and attitude. Our influence will, God-willing, act as a guiding force that will make for positive change and contribution to the society and world we live in. The Prophet Muhammad may be a mercy to believers, but he is also a mercy to all nations [Q 21:107]. The Muslims, his followers, should likewise be the same.

Conclusion

The arguments I have presented here may not be convincing for all, so my advice is this: follow whatever your conscious and your understanding of the will of Allah Ta'alaa is. Just remember that Muslim behavior and ethics can be a light whereever we are, and that the will of Allah cannot be overturned. Allah's promises are true, even though those promises are sometimes hard to recognize.

Only one God: forgotten aspects of Tauheed and its application

2008-10-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

It is well known that the most important declaration is the essential truth that nothing deserves worship except Allah, Laa e-laa ha ill Allah. This sentence, known as Tahleel, is recited during prayers, on occasions of happiness and sadness {ft.1}, and even during the process of dying when possible.{ft.2} Certainly there is much that can be said [and has been said] about the Tahleel, Islam's unique creedal statement{ft.3}, however, it seems that there are some aspects of Islam's creed that need to be made publically known, for the benefit of Muslims and Non-Muslims alike.

Justice

It is obvious that the Quranic account of the mission of the Prophets have more social implications, and is not limited to theological arguments. Although many examples can be cited, the account of Moses and Aaron should be sufficient. For further details, we recommend reading the Qur'an [20:42-50].

Returning to the Tahleel, we are informed by the Qur'an:

The 'Shahaadah' of Allah is 'there is no deity except him' {Laa e laa ha illa Huwa}. As well as [being the declaration of] angels, and people of knowledge who stand for justice..[Q 3:19]

Here, Tauheed, or the oneness of God, is given as the basis or the foundation for God's dominion of the universe. There is no injustice from God, nor are there any random occurrences. It also shows us that those who uphold Tauheed have an interest in the preservation and cultivation of knowledge, technical ability, sciences and so forth. These people also have an interest in seeing the application of fair-play, preservationof the rights of others, in short, justice universally applied.

This aspect of Tauheed can also be discerned from the Hadeeth literature:

Whosoever of you sees an evil action, let him change it with his hand, and if he is not able to do so, then with his tongue, and if he is unable to do so, then with his heart, and this is the weakest of faith. [Reported by Muslim, Al-Nawawi's Forty Hadith, Ezzedinne Ibrahim, Denys Johnson Davies, page 110. Holy Koran publishing house, Beirut, 1979].

For those who uphold a conviction that God is one, fairness for all is a pillar of faith that will not be abandoned, one that must be translated into action when needed. Otherwise, our declarations of faith will be empty words, revealing only our hypocrisy.

Standing for justice [Qaa'iman Bil Qist] does not equate making rash, emotional decisions, nonetheless it should be in the minds of the Muwahhidoon [Those who believe in God's oneness].

Hast thou ever considered [the kind of man] who gives the lie to all moral law? Behold, it is this [kind of man] that thrusts the orphan away, and feels no urge to feed the needy. Woe the, unto those praying. Whose hearts are remote, those who want only to be seen and praised. And, withal, deny all assistance [to their fellow-man]. {Q 107:1-7, Muhammad Asad translation, The message of the Qur'an, 1980, Dar al andalus, Gibraltar.

Idolatry: Injustice to God and man

Some Muslim writers correctly assert that God has rights, just as humans do, and those rights should not be violated. Yet, even in that, it is also true that we cannot hurt God. The Qur'an presents a concept of the Divine that is strong, showing God as wise, independent, and powerful. In other words, our neglect of prayers does not harm him, it only harms ourselves. Allah says

I do not want from them any provision, nor do I want them to feed me. [Q 51:57]

We don't sustain Allah, he sustains us. We recite this fact daily in prayer with the line "Praise be to Allah, Nourisher of the universe" [Q 1:2].

To worship something other than God, an action known to Muslims as Shirk, is given in the Qur'an as the greatest crime imaginable [Q 31:13]. It is not because God needs our worship, nor is he hurt by our misplaced devotion{ft.4]. Shirk is in fact the foundation or basis by which other crimes are committed!

A policy of ethnic or religious genocide, in which one group of people see themselves as better or more deserving than the other wipe out the latter, or deny them rights, is a classic example of Shirk! Worship of one's prejudice and arrogance-shirk- led to the crime of genocide, such as in Rwanda, Bosnia and other places.

Theologically, seeing an individual as God-incarnate is also considered Shirk, mainly for two reasons;

[1] God is something greater than a human, actually a reality that can not be fully conceptualized [Q 42:11].

[2] The one viewed as "God in person' invariably commits crimes and abuse of both his followers and others.

Portraits of Jesus Christ [viewed by Christians as God incarnate and God's son] that display in homes, Churches and Bible printings worldwide as a Caucasian has the subtle effect of portraying Europeans as sharing Divinity. As a result of this, another trend has arisen in which Jesus is portrayed in Bible printings and films as Black!

Colonialism, Slavery, and many other forms of injustice can be traced back to Shirk!

Intercession

Many of us believe that at some point, personalities, be they alive or dead, will intercede with God on our behalf. Traditions have beec created to support this view, and the situation is now that almost every religious group worldwide accepts this doctrine in one form or another.

In the outset, it should be said that there is no harm in asking someone to pray for you. That, however, vastly differs from invoking a dead or absent personality. In any case, the Qur'an informs us that God's decisions are in his hands alone, therefore it makes more sense to invoke him alone.

Say: Intercession [Shafa'ah] is in the domain of Allah entirely {Jamee'an}. To him belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth, then to him you will return. [Q 39:44].

Acknowledgment of God's messengers constitute Shirk?

It has been asserted by many in recent years that the statement "Muhammad is the messenger of Allah" [Muhammad ar Rasool Allah] is idolatry. Insincere people make this statement, we are sometimes told. The supporters of this view quote the following verse as evidence;

When the hypocrites come to you [O Muhammad] they say: We testify that you are indeed Allah's messenger...[Q 63:1]

However, the verse goes on to say that "And Allah knows that you are truly his messenger." If Muhammad, upon whom be peace and blessings, was a false messenger, then the theory would hold some merit. However, the Qur'an shows us that he was a true prophet and messenger, so why would acknowledging a true fact be idolatry?

Moreover, the Qur'an tells us that God himself acknowledges that he sent Muhammad as his messenger, with the Qur'an.

However, Allah makes Shahaadah [Allahu Yash-hadu] as to what he has to you [O Muhammad], sent to you from his knowledge ['ilmihi]. And the angels [also declare this] [Yash-hadoon]. And Allah is sufficient as a witness. {Q 4:166}

Conclusion

Tauheed is very important, not just as some abstract notion, but in terms of seeing life correctly, our place in it right, and in terms of our own consciousness as humans. For God to assist us and accept our prayers, we should conceptualize him in the manner as given throughout the Qur'an, and also use our hands, our tongues, our money, our very selves, to give justice, both for us and others, regardless of their label, class or ethicity!

God does not die, is all kind and merciful. He hears the calls of those who call on him, so he should be invoked, rather than other figures. Nothing should divert us from Allah!

Shirk is not limited to theological error. It is the root of all evil. Racism, arrogance, murder, all can be traced back to Shirk!

Footnotes

[1] One will notice when living in various parts of the Muslim world that Laa elaha ill Allah is said at different times, depending on the particular culture.

[2] Abu Dawud 3/190.

[3] See http://shamsuddinwaheed.blogspot.com/2008/01/tauheed-understanding-divine-monotheism.html

[4] Some religions, such as Hinduism, have rituals which involve a devotee leaving rice as an offering to the deity.

Muslim Americans, what now? thoughts on the the impact of W.Deen Mohammed and the future

2008-09-18T09:42:00.001-07:00

The death of Imam W.Deen Mohammed, long time fixture in the Muslim American community, sent shock waves nationwide, affecting not only his followers, but the wider Muslim community as well. He was widely seen as a source of stability and confidence for U.S.Muslims, particularly African-American Muslims, many of whom also saw in him a symbol of pride and independence.

His death has re-ignited interest in an oft-ignored African American Muslim community, and has also prompted questions as to the past, present and future image of Islam with a distinct American appearance.

Who was W.Deen Mohammed

Son of Elijah Muhammad, the founder of the 'Lost-found Nation of Islam' or simply Nation of Islam [NOI], a movement whose doctrines were a mixture of Islam, Christianity and a variety of race-based fictional accounts. It was founded in the days when discrimination and marginalization of Black Americans was a normal fact of life, also a time when various religious and political movements were vying for the Consciousness and loyalty of Blacks. Elijah Muhammad's interests were not religious alone. While he did view Christianity as a tool to put down Blacks, and Islam as a liberating religion for Blacks, he also had cultural, social and economic interests. He gave his followers the drive to be industrious, hard-working, and productive, opening a variety of restaurants, farms, and other business ventures. He advocated a rather unrealistis vision, complete separation of the races, that some land be set aside for Blacks only, for a Black nation!

It was this movement that produced well-known figures such as Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali. Although marginalized in historical accounts, this movement, despite its clearly odd patch job of a theology, played an important role in both the African-American struggle for human rights and the establishment of Islam in American life.

Upon the death of Elijah Muhammad in 1975, his son Wallace [also known as Imam Warith-Deen ] became the leader of the NOI, and almost immediatly embarked on a program that led in the direction of accepting Orthodox Islam. Prayer, fasting, uncompromising Monotheism, all ignored in the days of his father, became the norm for his supporters.

Eventually, W.D. Mohammed dissolved all organizational structures, having for himself essentially a symbolic presence only, with no direct control of his followers' affairs. His style had an unique American approach. He seems to have sought to allow Muslims to be Muslims, while at the same time be American! This is a different approach from other Muslim movements, which finds acceptance of all things Western anathema to Islam. He was among the first American Muslim figures to encourage voting, and his preferred style of dress was a suit and tie, rather than a Jalabiyyah.

Of course there were many issues we can disagree with him about, but his impact cannot be denied. He was a sincere worker for the Islamic cause, with a mind of his own.

The future

The passing of Imam W.D. Mohammed reflects the natural changing of the guard. No longer should religion revolve around personalities. That has also been a uniquely American experience, but in Islam our religion is suppose to be about obedience to God above all else, about the Qur'an, the words of God and acting in accordance with justice and fair-play.

Rather than circling around a leader, I think the Muslims will, and actually should, broaden their religious interests, pursuing for themselves the avenues of knowledge and building for themselves all the goodly things needed for their lives and the well being of their communities. This was very apparent to me at the funeral, which I attended, when I saw Minister Louis Farrakhan [ft.1]. It hit me that he was the only other prominent fugure from those past days still active, who himself carried a charisma that is felt by Muslim Americans of all shades and backrounds.

American Muslims are in the process of creating their own identity. Times have changed, and Islam is no longer seen as a protest movement among Blacks. It is spreading fast among Whites and Latinos. Together with second-generation Muslims from Arab and South Asian backrounds, we will create something new and unique.

Muslims here will create their own clothing, that will conform to Islamic requirements as well as Western styles, in the same way Baju Melayu in Malaysia and the Shalwar kameez for the unique identity of Subcontinent Muslims. The future is very promising.

We will ask our readers to respect this process, to participate in this process, contribute to it and do not denigrate the past. We have seen that with the passing of Imam Mohammed, many have taken the oppurtunity to attack his personal, theological and political positions. This is not the time for that, as all that will do is create unneeded enmity and hatred. We ask our readers to put aside differences and to remember the Islamic principle of not speaking ill of the dead, especially one whose good actions outweighted any [percieved] wrong ones.

Footnote

[1] Louis Farrakhan broke away from W.D. Mohammed upon the latter's acceptance of orthodox Islam, and revived the teachings and program of Elijah Muhammad.

Obsession: a documentary of hate and fear

2008-09-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

In the Sunday edition of the Toledo Blade, readers received a surprise in the middle section, a free DVD. The title of this free gift ['beware of the Greeks, even when they bear gifts'] is 'Obsession: Radical Islam's war against the West'. It's a one hour so called documentary.

As the day went on, I learned that this 'gift' had not just been given to the good people of Toledo, cities all over the nation, [in selected states, the swing states actually] had received this DVD. Our community held a meeting to plan a response, and it was revealed there that seventy-two newspapers carried this DVD nationwide, reaching an estimated audience of twenty-eight million!

This DVD placed together a variety of disparate clips of images and statements throughout the world in an attempt to show the audience that 'Radical' Islam is out there, ready and able to destroy the Western way of life, and as such the West, the fountain of civilization and freedom, must be on guard, against "them". "They are here, among us" one speaker on this production said.

The same good 'ol boys

Among the many individuals featured or shown in this production, the most prominent are Walid Shoebat, Brigitte Gabriel, Steve Emerson and Daniel Pipes. All of these individuals are directly involved in organizations that seek funds and support for their respective agendas, usually revolve around Pro-Israeli or Zionist interests, the defense industry, and Evangelical Christian circles, those who claim a monopoly on Biblical interpretation, whose figures earn quite a bit of money from speeches, books, etc.. [One web site claims Shoebat earns over $13,000 for each speech]. Thus, people such as those featured on the DVD cannot be relied upon to give reliable, unbiased and accurate information.

Another speaker, Lamar Marcus, of Palestinian Media Watch, implies that Muslims created the myth that Jewish ritual requires the blood sacrifice of a child, when in reality this idea was founded by Europeans, Christians, in the Middle Ages.

False implications

Mr. Shoebat made the laughable assertion that Jihad [ which means 'struggle' ], explained by him as 'self-struggle', is still a dangerous concept comparable to Adolph Hitler's Mein Kampf , which means 'My struggle'. This can be compared to a person making the wrong assumption that there is a conspiracy behind the fact that the word Ingerris [Melayu for 'English'] appears so close to the 'N' word used in the USA as an insulting reference to Blacks.

In any case, a common theme throughout the documentary is the 'similarities' between Islam and Nazism. One speaker said that radical Islam is more dangerous than Nazism, and of course there were many pictures of German troops and Hitler. Much was made of a 'close' relationship between Palestinian Mufti Ikrima Sabri and Nazi Germany, but the same assertions could very well be made of the relationship between Iranian Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi and the United states.

It was constantly repeated that 'moderate' Muslims need to speak out against terrorism. Yet, Muslims have been doing just that. Even the events of September 11, 2001 found condemnation from Hezbollah, Syria and Iran, all opponents of US policy in the Middle East, all of whom are designated Terrorists by the US! It is very easy to confirm that the religious and political institutions of Muslims worldwide have condemned violence and murder, regardless of the identity of the victims or the perpetrators. A simple Internet search would suffice to answer that challenge. All of this is well-documented.

Induces Amnesia

A clip from an Arabic language television program is said to be especially frightening for Western audiences, in which a child is kidnapped by Jews for the purposes of sacrifice in a religious ritual. The propaganda is horrible, says this DVD. Yet, the same can be said of Hollywood films such as Death before dishonor, Seige, or Delta Force!

Every community has its bad apples, its elements who are so filled with rage that anything they say will most certainly be shocking. So, clips of representatives of the British-based group Al-Muhajiroun as well as Abu Hamza Al-Misri, former fighter in Afghanistan and also formerly of Britian making shocking statements was to be expected. That these figures are ignored by the wider Muslim community is never mentioned.

This DVD absolves the West of any responsibility for the grievances felt by people worldwide. It seeks to oversimplify the situation as 'Muslims hating the freedoms and success of the West'. While such grievances are not the subject of this particular post, nonetheless it would be wise for the reader to remember that there is two sides to every story, and that images can be decieving.

Concluding thoughts

Obsession only reinforced the stereotypes held about Arabs and Muslims. It has the potential to create a backlash of violence, even terrorism from right-wing groups and militias, against Western Muslims. Whole families can be placed in great danger as a result of this DVD. Of course, the controvery will die down, and individual Mosques and community leaders will respond to it, but nonetheless it is our feeling that the intentions of the creators and backers of Obsession have less than honorable intentions.

To our Muslim readers, we advise patience, and most importantly- do not overreact. It's a safe assumption that the producers of this so-called documentary want us to do exactly that. The propaganda war against Islam and Muslims is nothing new. It happened in the time of the Prophet Muhammad and is recorded in the Qur'an. A succinct example is given in the following words;

Is this a message that you ridicule, and you earn your money by lying about it? [Q 56:81-82].

Our long term responses to propaganda of this nature is to be better Muslims, live as Islam teaches us. Have inviting, clean Mosques, be prepared to answer questions honestly, make Islamic literature [especially the Qur'an] available to your friends, co workers and neighbors. These sort of actions will cancel out the efforts of the hateful and, God-willing, create a safer situation for ourselves and plant the seeds for greater understanding.

Ramadan readings: the expansive message of the Qur'an.

2008-09-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

As most of our readers are aware, reading or recitation of the Qur'an is very important in the month of Ramadan. While it is not our intention to go into the particulars of how this tradition has evolved, it is nonetheless a necessity to engage in its study while observing the fast.

The study of the Qur'an is never a boring experience for the believer, and it is our view that benefiting from it is especially heightened while fasting. It is my hope to share some observations of texts I read today.

Salvation

Just about every religious group has among its adherents those who believe that Heaven, paradise, Nirvana, or whatever label applied, is limited to themselves only. The Quranic position can be described in the following text:

And they say: None enter Jannah [paradise] unless they are Jewish or Christian. These [assertions] are their desires. Say: Produce your evidence, if you are truthful [Q 2:111]

This ayah summarizes the argument made by sects and religions as to the holders of salvation. God says to those holding such views to show their proof to the followers of the Prophet Muhammad, indeed, to all mankind.

Does anyone of us have keys to heaven? Can we look inside and find out exactly who is in it? Indeed, we cannot, and those who think otherwise are just speculating, following their own desires and prejudices.

Allah has told us- in the final revelation called the Qur'an, who will be in his paradise. The answer may surprise us all:

Nay! [the one who is] completly submissive to God, a doer of good, then he has his reward with his Lord, on them shall be no fear nor grief .{ Q 2112}

No label is given. Action is required. The word 'Nay' [Bal'] negates the argument of the prior sentence. Those who think they are the only ones blessed by God are indeed incorrect. In another place, Allah has said that those who are sincere in thinking they are God's exclusives, to the detriment of others, to kill themselves, return to God and his heaven faster{ Q 62:6].

Allah is the Provider and nourisher of all. While it is true that many of us hold to theological errors, can we really say that God made people, allowed them to make these mistakes in belief, just to send them to hell for misunderstanding? The Quranic message is this: Have the right understanding of God, and act accordingly. Label has not been given that much importance.

In this same section, we are shown again how labels have little bearing on one's status before God Almighty.

Jews and Christians will never be satisfied with you until you follow their Millah. Say: Surely God's guidance is the [real] guidance... [2:120].

Allah created all people, he knows best who deserves his rewards and who does not. Also of interest is the following verse;

The Jews say: "The Christians have naught (to stand) upon; and the Christians say: "The Jews have naught (To stand) upon." Yet they (Profess to) study the (same) Book. Like unto their word is what those say who know not; but Allah will judge between them in their quarrel on the Day of Judgment. [Q 2:113]

In the end, God is the judge. Therefore, we should never judge someone's ideology and say that God will not given them anything. That's arrogance on our part.

Endnote

For a more in-depth study of some of these issues, the reader is referred to the work The language of revelation, in which this writer has explored the Quranic usage of Kaafir, Islam and Muslim. To obtain, email waheed79@yahoo.com

Lectures available online.

2008-08-17T15:02:00.000-07:00

We have available Friday prayer lectures [Khutbahs] on CD for $10.00 each plus shipping and handling. Our titles include

[A] Quranic spirituality.

[B] Joseph and the New Egypt [mainly discussing a radical interpretation of the Qur'an Soorah 12].

[C] Khilaafah and 'Ibaadah . [ The Islamic teaching on the purpose of life, worship and concept of God]

[D] Allah's plan:Tauheed and Taqwa [ Thoughts on various trends in religious circles to force God's hand regarding Judgement, as well as a thorough discussion on 16:1]

[E] Follow the best thereof [Powerful explanation of the Quranic and Biblical Solomon, and priorities in Islam].

[F] Al-Faatihah and the Prophets [Detailed explanation of the Quran's first chapter, along with explanation of various Biblical topics and characters and their relation to Quran itself].

and much more.

To obtain, email waheed79@yahoo.com

Free online lectures

Jesus in Islam

Prayer and Morality:Dhikr and Suurah al -Faatihah

Goodly competition

http://www.esnips.com/web/shamsuddinwsStuff

Feedback welcome.

Human excellence

2008-08-11T11:36:00.000-07:00

The above title is taken from a theme of a program which I was invited to address last winter. The organizers had in mind a multi-religious, multi-ethnic response to issues facing the urban centers such as drug use, street violence, the message to the youth to stay in school, etc....

The program itself was nice, and attracted mainly young people, Non-Muslims as well as a few Muslim activists. Although it took place in the wintertime {Feb. 2008}, nonetheless I wanted to share some of my thoughts on the issue of 'human excellence'. I would appreciate any feedback.

It seems to me that the word 'excellence' has different meanings to different people. Too many of us have been fooled into thinking that having a stereo system is the meaning and goal of life. We have seen too many times people who are willing to waste their lives and the lives of others, including their loved ones, in the pursuit of transitory things by committing robbery, selling drugs, prostitution, and so forth.

Because of the vagueness of the theme name, I have opted to address human dignity. This is more to my understanding of the intent of the organizers. In the end, dignity is not in material things, or in the 'party life'. It is in the single mother, who despite hardships, continues to support her family. She does so without help or complaint. She elevates herself and her family through hard work, patience and consistency. She becomes an example to others, even if she does not wish this.

Education is very important, it is very difficult to operate in this world today without it. I am not just talking about formal education, but also self-education and consistent improvement. Take every oppurtunity to learn something, take advantage of the Libraries, read more. For an inspirational example, read the autobiography of Malcolm X.

There was much more that I told the audience, and occasionally I made Biblical and Quranic references. I am interested in knowing the readers views; how can we become better? What more can we do about the problems in the urban centers? What does dignity imply to you>

Quranic abrogation: an examination of Naskh

2008-07-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

Known as 'Naskh' or 'Man-sookh' in Arabic, this refers to the idea that one Quranic verse has been "canceled" for another, or, oddly enough, by AHadeeth [sayings attributed to the Prophet]. It is said that while the abrogated texts remain a part of the Qur'an and are even recited during prayers, the application thereof, or deriving knowledge or applicable information therefrom is inappropriate. It is our hope to examine briefly, but succinctly, this idea, its implications in our understanding and application of the Islamic faith, and whether this concept has a solid foundation.

We do not seek to create Fitnah [ft.1] for the Muslims, nor do we seek to simply engage in intellectual gymnastics, but rather my intention is to instigate conversations among students of religion, to share and to learn perspectives, and hopefully cause people to at least think about their positions. This is a very important position to take as people dedicated to religion and its understanding. We also hope to show that Islam is a religion of deep spirituality and a source for logic and truth, a light that stands on its own.

Qur'an: the last revelation

As a matter of undisputed principle, it is accepted by all Muslims that the Qur'an is the word of God, conveyed in a complete and uncorrupted manner to the Prophet Muhammad over a twenty-three year period of his life. It is also accepted that there will be no other scripture after it, that it serves as a correction and a clarification for the many ideas societies hold about God, prophets, scriptures, etc..! Unlike the rhetoric of other religious traditions, the Qur'an is a scripture for all mankind, and is not limited to a particular race, nation or tribe. [ft.2]

Among its many titles, we have the name Al-Furqaan, meaning a criterion for judging the right from the wrong [Q 25:1]. It is therefore clear that the nature of the Qur'an is that of clarity and direct guidance, and yet we assert that it contains verses that had to be "canceled", that in some manner God Almighty changes his mind? Does that not make God seem unreliable? Indeed, the idea that the last revelation contains texts that had to be removed or simply not taken into consideration any longer puts a dent in the fundamental Islamic teachings as to the Quranic purity and role, leaving Islam itself more open to attack. [ft.3]

Evolution, not abrogation

Examples usually given of abrogation in practical action are apparently evolutionary steps in the early Muslim community. Even today, using the example of cigarette smoking, when a person wants to stop, it is generally impossible to stop 'cold turkey'. Many use medicine or nicotine patches to gradually release the body from the addiction, the need, to smoke. Allah used the same sort of method. It had been revealed in the Qur'an that, when it comes to alcohol, a person should not "approach prayer while drunk" [Q 4:43]. Now, the Muslims were offering daily prayers, and usually in a communal setting {Jamaa'ah]. In addition to the mandatory prayers, most offered voluntary devotions as well, so, we ask, when would the observant Muslim have much time to become drunk? Once the habit was gradually out of the Muslims' system, then comes the verse[Q 5:93] which says that alcohol [as well as gambling] is a vice that is completely forbidden to Muslims.

Such evolution is very different from the idea of abrogation.

Basis for abrogation

This concept has been mainly extrapolated from two Quranic texts. It will be seen that these interpretations are in fact unsupported by the texts themselves.

What We [Allah] cancel of 'Ayaaat' or made forgotten, We replace it with something better than it, or at least similar. Do you not know that truly, Allah is powerful over everything? { Q 2:106}.

The word 'Ayaaat' used in the above text, means "signs". Throughout the Qur'an, this word is used for a variety of meanings, and is not limited to the Quranic verses [see 30:21, for example].

In this verse, the meaning is apparently this; the situation or circumstances that God allows a person or community to encounter are in constant change. The message is that in what ever occurs to us, be it the gain or loss of a job, spouse, etc...God allowed it to happen, to have faith and patience, as God is in charge. This is also seems to be the implication in 16:101.

The context of this passage continues to illustrate this important lesson clearly.

Do you not know that truly, to Allah belongs the dominion of the Heavens and the Earth, and that besides him you have no protector, nor anyone to grant victory? {Q 2:107]

The second passage usually referred to as the basis for Quranic abrogation is the following:

We [Allah] will relate to you [knowledge], so do not forget, except what Allah wills. Surely, he knows what the apparent and the hidden. { Q 87:6-7]

These two verses appear in a Chapter that contains only nineteen verses. The entire Soorah speaks of God's power insofar as having created the world and all it contains, providing the tools needed by humans to reach their full potential, both physically [vv.4-5] and spiritually [vv.8-18]. Nothing in the texts here suggests that Quranic verses are 'forgotten'. {ft.4}

Concluding thoughts

Without doubt, everything contained in the Qur'an has a usage, whether it be a command to obey, a prohibition to avoid, or of historical or inspirational purposes. It is the ultimate guide, and the most reliable source of information.

The priorities of Allah, as outlined in the Qur'an, are extremely broad, more so than usually imagined.

We can understand the development of the idea of Naskh in the following manner; commentators were perplexed in understanding seemingly contradictory verses, especially in matters relating to legal issues. Add to that the various practices that are labeled as practices of the Prophet and the first generations of Muslims, and much confusion would naturally arise. Values that are timeless end up being ignored for verses of a limited application. For example, many are of the view that Q 8:61, which commands Muslims to remain in a peaceful setting with those who maintain a similar stance, has been replaced with 9:73, which reads as follows

O Prophet, fight against the disbelievers and the hypocrites and be harsh upon them. And their refuge is Hell, and wretched is the destination [Q 9:73, Saheeh International translation]

By ignoring 8:61 in light of the above verse, which was clearly of a limited scope, given to the Prophet at a time of great upheaval, when he was under constant attack from his foes, a foundation for constant conflict is created. This is not the intent of the verse, or any verse of the Qur'an. The Book speaks to realities, and while sometimes those realities are not pretty, it is also acknowledged that all is not equal, various societies and peoples face different situations. Texts such as 9:73 were cited by Jihadi groups in Egypt as justification for launching attacks on Christian Coptic civilians, Western tourists and "lapsed" Muslims in the early 1990's.

Another issue to consider is our unwillingness to accept the 'other'. This is perhaps a natural tendency, but not one that is supported by the words of Allah. Look at 2:62 as the perfect example. It, along with 5:69, actually names some Non-Muslim religious groups as being rewarded by God for their faith and deeds. These verses are said by the defenders of abrogation to have been canceled by Q 3:85 [ and other texts, such as 5:3], or are said to refer to nations prior to Muhammad's time. [ft.5-6]

Thus, the Qur'an is more open and factual than we like to acknowledge. It does not play into our prejudices and fears. It speaks the truth, consistently, and we should be thankful for that. It deserves more of our attention and research.

Footnotes

[1] The author has conducted extensive research on the Quranic usage of Fitnah, and has been published in the form of a series of appendixes in The language of revelation. To obtain this volume, which comes with two cds, email the author at waheed79@yahoo.com.

[2] An example of religious language that is exclusive to one group of people can be found in the fact that the Bible consistently uses phrases such as "The God of Abraham, Issac and Jacob, the God of our fathers.." [Acts 3:13]

[3] In a debate with the late Ahmad Deedat, a Christian opponent used abrogation as a reason for dismissing the validity of Islam. The title of this debate was "Crucifixion or Crucifiction". It is still widely available.

[4] Also of interest is Muhammad Asad's interpretation of Surah 87, in which he argues that the verses here refer to accumulated human knowledge being forgotten in light of greater and more useful information. See his The message of the Qur'an [pp. 946-947 Dar Al-Andalus, Gibraltar].

[5] It is amazing that 2:62 is seen as abrogated, when the verse starts with "Inna" [Certainly]. With such a strong phrase, which actually affects the sentence in Arabic grammar [Ism Inna wa khawaatihaa], it should be very clear that Allah does not mean for this statement to simply vanish!

[6] This verse has been explained in great detail in our "Deen in the presence of God". See http://islaminviewforum.com/index.php?showtopic=343

The continuity of God's message

2008-06-30T13:27:00.000-07:00

All people, regardless of religious label, are guilty of holding the idea of exclusivity when it comes to their faith. Even if their practice is nonexistent, they would feel that their religious label is above those of other people, and become greatly disturbed when a family member leaves the faith and enters another one. One rather bizarre example of this can be found in an example related to me by a Muslim sister. Upon her acceptance of Islam, the sister's aunt became upset, and even struck her in the head with a Bible. Obviously, the Aunt had forgotten the various teachings in the book [aka the weapon] she yielded about forgiveness and mercy, this emotional reaction has little to do with religious sincerity, but rather family honor, embarrassment, and amazement that the Muslim sister had enough faith in God and the faith she has adopted to actually take steps to change her life from the prior manner in which she had been living.

This is not to say Muslims don't have these tendencies as well, indeed, these traits can be found among all people. The reason, in my view, is that we don't want to acknowledge that God's guidance is not restricted to "our own". The following Biblical verse is often cited to dissuade acceptance or even investigation of faiths other than the Christian sects.

John 14:6

Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. "

Certainly this verse has been variously interpreted among Christians, but even accepting it at face-value, it does not negate God's message being continued and perfected by other teachers, Prophets and Messengers from Almighty God. If we accept one legitimate messenger of God, then we must accept them all. As Jesus was sent by God [that much can be accepted by Christians and Muslims alike], then the Biblical statement[if it's an authentic statement of Jesus] would still show the truth of our assertion above. Common sense should also come into play, if we believe in God, and accept him as the creator of the universe, of all peoples in our world, how can we say that God has favored one group of people over another, that he is un willing to send revelation, or communication, if you will, to figures other than those among the Jewish tribes in Palestine? That would indeed be senseless, especially in a world which, at that time, contained nations and peoples isolated from each other.

The Qur'an: the universal gospel

An honest reading of the Judeo-Christian texts and traditions show that its focus is mainly the Jewish people. The Old Testament, accepted by Jews and Christians as God-inspired, is mainly a collection of semi-historical narrative of varying accuracy. It does not seem to even allow the possibility of God giving spiritual guidance and assistance to those outside th Jewish people. While Monotheism [known as the 'Shema' to Jews and 'Tauheed' to Muslims] is certainly an important theme in the O.T., it still restricts God, whom they acknowledge as the creator of all nations, as a tribal or national deity!

The Qur'an, on the other hand, has from the earliest texts revealed acknowledged that God has sent guidance, in the form of messengers, Prophets and scriptures, to people everywhere. It has made acceptance of all messengers a fundamental principle, using very strong language regarding those whose acceptance is limited to one or two personalities.

Those who deny Allah and his messengers and [those who ] wish to separate Allah from his messengers, saying 'We believe in some but reject others', [those who] wish to take a course midway. Truthfully, they are Rejectors [of God] [Kaaferoon]....to those who believe in Allah and his messengers, and do not make any differences between anyone of the messengers, We [Allah] shall give their [due] rewards. Allah is forgiving, merciful [Q 4"150-152]

The above Quranic verse goes to the core of Kufr. That core is using religion as a national or cultural label, or viewing God as always being on their side. They don't want to be on God's side! This is not what God wants, and such behavior displays an actual rejection of God, their proclamation as believers is shown to be utterly hypocritical.

Muslim polemics often involve attempting to 'prove' that the Prophet Muhammad, upon whom be peace, is mentioned or predicted in the Bible. Numerous books and tracts have been produced expounding on this point. While, as a Muslim, I do believe much of these assertions to be accurate, it should not be necessary to prove it through these means. I hate to say it, but sometimes Christians have a point when they ask us the motive for our usage of Biblical texts while rejecting the bulk of it as inauthentic. Instead of focusing on the similarities between Moses and Muhammad, or explaining that the 'spirit of truth' [John 16:13] refers to him, we should convey the message itself. That message is that of a pure and uncorrupted monotheism, one that serves as a clarification and a correction of prior assertions as to the reality of God, his messengers, and the Divine message. For example, the Old Testament actually has a narration in which God wrestled with Jacob, in human form, and lost [Gen. 32:25]. We should be asking 'How can God loose? More importantly, does it make sense for the Creator of the entire universe to be engaged in a wrestling match, in human form, in the first place'?

The answers are all there, in the Qur'an! It asserts that God does not take human form, that God is a force that has neither beginning nor end, that God is dignified and Noble, and that God is the nourisher of all. [ft.1]

To have respect for God means to see his laws, his creation, in a much broader light. It means examining the message rather than scrutinizing the messenger! It means following what is right and true, regardless of the source. It means placing God as the uppermost priority in our lives, and by that we will receive blessings and support that is unimaginable.

Footnote

[1] This issue has been dealt with in great detail in the Book The language of revelation. To obtain this volume, email waheed79@yahoo.com.

Al-Qur'an: a liberal scripture?

2008-06-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

Introduction

It is often imagined that Islam is a religion of extremism, rigidity and inflexible traditions. This picture of Islam is promoted in an effective manner by the mainstream media, and it is perhaps a Western misunderstanding of the many obligations that Muslims are indeed to fulfill, such as daily prayers, dietary restrictions, dress code and the like. Such actions stand out as unique and sometimes strange in a Western, secular-minded society that has succeeded in restricting religion, to a great extent, to Church services and personal theological convictions.

Perhaps taking the bait, many of us Muslims have bought the media's assessment as the correct one, indeed becoming extremely rigid in our approach. Of course, this is not really the right way at all, even from the point of view of the Ahadeeth. The Prophet Muhammad, upon whom be God's blessings and peace, is said to have always taken the path of moderation, of choosing the easier of any two choices 1. Examples of this rigid approach include a story I read about four years ago in a Muslim publication, discussing a similar theme, about a Muslim who actually, upon believing that music is Haraam [unlawful], would place cotton in his ears to avoid hearing elevator music 2!

Other, more well-known examples, include the very strict rules that governed the lives of Afghani women under the Taleban rule.

The Balanced community

The Qur'an teaches that Muslims are to constitute a middle nation, or a community of balance [2:143], one that is neither too far-right nor to the extreme left. Extremism, in any fashion, has been criticized by Allah himself. The practice of not marrying and living as a monk, we are told, was not ordained by God[ Q 57:27], thus was an unnecessary innovation, that does more harm than good. To have a balanced religion, it is necessary to approach it from a holistic sense. To have balance, one must examine one's one needs, realistic needs, be it personal or societal, by obtaining real knowledge of the religious texts, of the message of Allah as given in his final book, the Qur'an. Ignoring the current physical realities in pursuit of the idealistic may be commendable, but in the end a disservice. A good example of this is Interest. It is clearly unlawful, from the Islamic point of view [Q 2;275 and many other verses], yet, we live in a society where we need our loans, our mortgages, car notes etc..

As a balanced community, our scholars, Imams, leaders need to get together and offer alternatives, affordable ones, to the community. Alhamdulillah, there is indeed such efforts taking place, but perhaps the average Muslim living in the USA or Europe may not see the results anytime soon. But in the meantime we need to bite the bullet and attempt to take the lesser of two evils when we can.

A Balanced ideology

The Qur'an, the scripture revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over fourteen centuries ago, provides the essential doctrines that Muslims are to hold. Anything else appearing outside the Qur'an may be correct [or incorrect], but with Quranic beliefs, we can never go wrong. If the teachings given in the Qur'an are accepted by a person, then they are Muslims that deserve our recognition. Look at the following example:

The Messenger[Muhammad] believes in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the believers.. Each one (of them) believes in God, , His angels, His books, and His messengers. "We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of His apostles. [2:285]

Other Quranic examples of what Muslims are to accept theologically are given in 2:1-5 and 2:177. The actions that display this belief system are also given throughout the Qur'an, examples include 23:1-11, 17:23-39 and 98:5.

Qur'an, a source for liberalism?

A thought has been occurring to me, which has been difficult to express in words. I have realized that whenever a Muslim scholar, leader or activist [or just about any body] attempts to focus on the Qur'an for their guidance, more so that any other source, other Muslims will dismiss that person as a "liberal" or "Modernistic". This has made me wonder aloud if indeed the Qur'an teaches "liberalism" or "modern values"?

It is certainly true that these titles are vague in themselves, but nonetheless they seem to be legitimate queries. It does seem to me that while the Qur'an is very clear on certain issues, especially those of theology, it is deliberately silent on others. For example, in terms of governing, there is only one Quranic guideline , that of consultive and representative bodies Shuraa Baynahum, Qur'an, 42:38.If these bodies are set up, then by the Quranic viewpoint they are legitimate. In this regard, Iran, which is a republic, as well as Saudi Arabia, ruled by monarchy, have compelling claims to legitimacy under Islamic law [and indeed, both make this claim], despite their obvious differences in style of governing.

Allah has not forgotten to place something in the Qur'an at all. It is clear that God intends for humans to use our minds and creative genius, our collective gifts, to solve our own problems and create our own unique styles to deal with our lives, here, the example of government. "Democracy" itself is practiced differently, as between Western examples and that of Japan 3.

In other words, by not placing certain information or guidelines in the Qur'an, God wants us to use our own Ijtihaad. If we as humans [looking at a broad view] or as Muslims [looking at a focused perspective and interest] come to different conclusions and styles, this is still acceptable to God, and should be acceptable to each other. God has given humans varying colors, languages, cultures and mindsets, so we may learn from each other, copy each other if need be, so there is no basis for Muslims to dismiss other Muslims for disagreements on small issues as "innovators" "disbelievers" etc...! There is little "dogmatism" within Islam, either in its theology or its practice.

That does not mean that there are no guidelines at all. We are to accept God as one and alone, Muhammad as God's messenger and final Prophet, and offer our prayers in the way prescribed through Muhammad, etc..but in general, we have little "absolutes" within Islam.

The Qur'an acts as a constitution, a basis for theological belief and worldly practice, and all other sources. Ahadeeth, Fiqh, Seerah, Tareekh, etc. serve only as commentary and helpful aids in following the constitution that is the Qur'an. Nothing can be equal to the words of God Almighty.

Returning to the main theme, it indeed seems the Qur'an, fourteen centuries ago, taught what we now see as "modern values", freedom of religion,racial equality, the promotion of morals for the protection of society, are all Quranic principles. Of course, that does not mean that the Western values and Islamic teachings are in complete agreement, as Alcohol and gambling, for example,are forbidden to Muslims 4 .

Conclusion

The Qur'an is a book that deserves more of our attention. It contains much more than we give it credit for. It should not just decorate our homes and be on our lips at prayer time, weddings and funerals. It should be constantly read and pondered upon.

It is our hope that our non-Muslim reader would take the opportunity to investigate these claims, and if they are found to be true, to join the one billion strong Muslim community and fully gain from the word of God. But even if the reader disagrees, it cannot be argued that the Islamic principles, propagated in the Qur'an before Western political philosophers grabbed a hold of them, shines forth in influence nonetheless, that its light outshines all other lights, by its own sheer power [Qur'an, 9:33].

Footnotes

1. Sahih Al-Bukhari, Kitaab al-adab 73:147.

2. There are many traditions attributed to the Prophet which speak negatively about music. That is another issue altogether, beyond the scope of this post. We simply illustrated the example to show an extreme response.

3. See http://www.crf-usa.org/election_central/japan_democracy.htm

4. In Muslim lands, Non-Muslims have always had access to alcohol and whatever else they wanted, but for Muslims, such is clearly not allowed.

West/East dichotomy present in Cairo Hyatt controversy?

2008-05-24T23:54:00.000-07:00

The recent decision by the owner of the Grand Hyatt hotel in Cairo, a hotel which enjoys five-star status, to cease immediately the sale of alcohol has infuriated many, the bogeyman of Saudi "radicalism" in an otherwise "moderate" Egyptian Muslim society has been invoked, seemingly by both Muslim and Non-Muslim commentators. What has been even more disturbing is that some of the responses to this decision has brought to light many of the illogical fallacies and outright racist and ethnocentric views that are held by many whenever it comes to Muslims, Islam, and specifically the desire to live in accordance to certain values of religious origin. Our prior article about Polygamy emphasized the hypocrisy of seizing children allegedly from Polygamous unions, while at the same time having no problems with the "hook-up" culture that leaves far more problems, social, emotional, STDS, burden on the American taxpayer's etc..

First, I should clarify that I have no problem with a Non-Muslim wanting to consume alcohol. This is their business. Many strands of Christian practice use Wine in their religious ceremonies to represent the blood of Christ, whom they believe died for mankind's sins. I am not in a position, especially in such a post as this, to address the legitimacy or lack of it with regards to their tradition. That is the job of their scholars and intellectuals. As a Muslims, I must remember what the Qur'an has taught in its own declaration of religious freedom when it has asserted that "There is no compulsion in religion..'' [Q 2:256]. Therefore, I cannot force my own religious choice on a reluctant population.

That being said, it should also be acknowledged that when in someone else's house, the wishes of the owner should be respected. If I ask my visitors to remove their shoes when they come to my house, then out of respect the visitors should. They should not even ask me for an explanation. They will do so because I have asked them to. The owner of the hotel, a Muslim, operating in a Muslim-majority nation, has decided to ban alcohol from his place of business. He chooses not to have that as part of his business. He should be commended for this action, as so many of us are driven by financial considerations alone, unwilling to act upon our better selves, the part of our soul that pushes us to what is right.

An example of the thinking pattern that I take very strong exception to is the following quote. I found it to be very racist and arrogant. I ask the reader if this makes sense to you:

"But critics say just as Muslims expect to be served Halal food on international flights, they should be prepared to respect the desires of their Western guests." [ http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7415495.stm]

I have been on international flights in the Muslim world many times, as well as in other regions. I have never asked for Halal meat. On flights in Muslim areas, it only makes sense that the airline would have available Halal meat, but to compare that to alcohol? Besides, if a Muslim does not wish to consume Non-Halal meat, he or she can easily eat fruits or seafood, etc.. that is available on the flight. Moreover, do "Western guests" consider Halal meats to be immoral? To be against their religious values? The Qur'an has clearly stated that alcohol is a distraction from spiritual pursuits, that it is harmful, and that it is actually a tool of Satan to bring forth inappropriate behavior [ Q 2:219, 5:90-91].

To compare Halal foods to alcohol is to also bring into question drugs such as crack cocaine, etc...! Should I serve my guests these simply because they may like it? Should I have such available in my home? It would be foolish for me to do this, because it is against my own values, the laws of my state and nation, and would bring many more problems to my doorstep. In other words, it is best for my own interests to keep these items at distance. That is exactly what the Cairo Hyatt has done.

The argument that it would harm the Egyptian tourist industry also seems illogical to me. Egypt is one big museum, with artifacts from many culture and civilizations. The reader already accepts this as an axiomatic truth. I need not provide evidence for this. Can not the tourist, if they really want alcohol, either wait for their trip to conclude or find their desired drink outside their hotel?

I wonder aloud here, in this brief post, if the Egyptians cited in the BBC article as having concerns about this recent move by the Cairo Hyatt have internalized a view that their values, influenced by Islam, are antiquated and useless, while those of fun-loving tourists are "civilized" and "modern"? I also wonder if the Non-Muslims on the international scene see themselves as the ultimate judges of what is right and wrong, if they have adopted, knowingly or otherwise, a paternalistic attitude towards the "third world"?

In any case, what has been shown is that even in business, there has to be morals, ethics, and standing for one's conscious, even if it hurts politically or financially. This does not naturally equate confrontation or conflict, but nonetheless it is my honest view that the owner, Sheikh 'Abdul 'Aziz Ibrahim bin Ibrahim, should be congratulated by all people of conscious, Muslim and non-Muslim. He should be seen as an example of standing up for what is right and true.
I also recommend reading this perspective http://modernmuslimwoman.com/2008/05/cairo-hyatt-no-longer-sells-alcoholthis.html

Polygamy and Societal norms

2008-04-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

The nation and perhaps the entire world have been paying attention to the recent raid on a compound belonging to the Fundamentalist Church of Latter day Saints [FLDS] in El Dolado, Texas. It has been said that sexual abuse of children, forced marriages and assault was taking place on the property.

As the days continue to unfold, so do the details of the circumstances surrounding the initial investigation, the raid on FLDS property and the subsequent action of taking hundreds of children into state custody, the accusations continue to fly. One which sticks out in my mind is that children were "indoctrinated" to accept marriage. For more, see the following link, [url] http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080418/ap_on_re_us/polygamist_retreat[/url].

Do not all parents "indoctrinate" their children? I found the wording of that very arrogant and condescending. In any case, it has now been said that the initial investigation was the result of a prank, a bad joke, on the part of a FLDS detractor [ see [url]http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/23/AR2008042303551.html?hpid=sec-religion[/url]]

Nonetheless, the beliefs, dress, and moral code of the followers of this Mormon breakaway faction are very odd to mainstream American culture, the most striking is their practice of polygamous marriage. Those who enter into polygamy have traditionally been seen as sexual deviants, acting contrary to Biblical norms. In the days of early Mormonism, polygamy, better described as Polygany, was seen as a command from God. Persecution from both society as well as the government forced the movement to abandon it in 1890 [see [url]http://www.religioustolerance.org/lds_poly.htm[/url]]. This was not universally accepted among Mormons, leading to schisms, the FDLS being just one of many such examples.

In any case, I find it very strange that while Homosexuality is acceptable and legal, persons with multiple sexual partners [married or otherwise] cannot face any legal consequences for their actions or lifestyle choice, individuals seeking marriage, of their own free will, are roundly condemned and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

We venture to call this Evident Hypocrisy! We are asking here, why the hypocrisy? Please explain why polygamy is wrong, and yet homosexuality is not? Why is polygamy immoral and contrary to state law, when plural relationships, usually without marriage, or simply "playing the field" are acceptable, without fear of government interference?

Sometimes it is asserted that Polygamous relationships place an unfair burden on state and national resources.However, would not any other relationship, with its consequent children, also place the same burdens? It seems to me that such reasoning is untenable, an excuse to simply attack what is different, something which presents a totally different set of values and morals, in many cases exposing our own inadequacies as a nation and society.

Polygamy in Islam

In Pre-Islamic Arabia, a variety of marriages and relationships were seen as acceptable, including polygamy. However, an unlimited polygamy was practiced. The Qur'an limits the number of wives a man is allowed to take to four, and what is most interesting about this is that the Qur'an itself links polygamy to social welfare.

And if you are fearful that you cannot be just with orphans, then marry women of your choice, two, three or four. And if you fear the inability to be just [again], then one woman ..that is the most suitable in preventing you from being unjust.

[Qur'an 4:3]

The Muslim community, under the leadership of Muhammad ,were under much pressure, as men had been falling in battle, leaving behind widows and children with no means of support. This was a solution to several problems,but the main one addressed is that of social welfare. Any religion that does not give guidance for practical situations of like nature does not deserve much attention. In the above cited Quranic text, it appears that it is suggested that instead of guardians being appointed to manage the inheritance [if any] of the family, the guardian himself, or someone willing to take on this role, should unite with that family, take on the responsibilities and struggles together, as a means of overcoming pressure, but also to build a cohesive family, a large body that will be there for mutual support financially, spiritually, and so forth.

This has little to do with sexual adventure. The Qur'an is presenting an alternative family system, with limitations of course. It should also be noted that rulers and leaders often took on wives from other nations/tribes/families etc.. as a means to build traditional relationships and solidify alliances. This is apparent in the figure of Solomon, whom the Bible says had as many as 700 wives[ 1 Kings 11:3]. The Prophet Muhammad himself had similar reasons in mind, as we see that he also married several widows.

Conclusion

Polygamy is not for everyone, indeed it is not recommended for those financially or emotionally incapable of handling such responsibilities. In any case, as an institution it does not deserve the sort of bad press it has received and continues to receive.

If it is to be practiced, it should be for the correct motivations, and not simply for "adventure". Marriage, whether in polygamy or not, should never be rushed into. We suggest following the advice of Muhammad himself, which is to pray [salaat al -Istikhaarah] and then seek advice from people [Ft.1]
.

This was by no means a comprehensive look at Polygamy, but nonetheless we pray that this has caused you to at least consider the choice of others and not look at it with contempt. I am also interested in the views of those who have experience in polygamy, from any religion, in order to have a productive and meaningful discussion.

Footnotes

[#1] Al Qahtaani, Sa'eed, Fortification of the Muslim through remembrance and supplication from the Qur'aan and Sunnah, pp. 105-108 [Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Dar al Khair, 1996 edition]

Al-Kauthar: Legacy of the Prophet

2008-04-03T17:35:00.001-07:00

"Surely We [Allah] have given you [O Muhammad] 'Al-Kauthar'. So, pray to your Lord and sacrifice. Surely, the one who is hateful to you [O Muhammad] will have no legacy" [Qur'an 108:1-3]

This rather short Surah was given to the Prophet Muhammad [Peace be upon him] during a great personal tragedy. His sons had been dying, and to add insult to injury, the Mushrikeen were celebrating these tragedies, themselves holding the view that with no male heirs, the message of Muhammad would simply die out. Details of these incidents are widely available. {Ft.1}

The title and key phrase to this surah is "Al Kauthar". This name has been variously interpreted, among the ideas is the widely accepted notion that Al Kauthar is the name of a body of water, a pond, Divinely promised in this Surah to the Prophet himself. Many traditions have entered the Hadeeth literature, both Sunni and Shi'i collections, and thereafter the books of Tafseer [Quranic commentary] that have elaborated upon the nature of this pond, the events that will take place in Paradise, and a variety of other tales. {Ft.2}

Even if we accept such tales to be correct, we are still overlooking some important details surrounding the text, its implications for the future of the Muslim community, and the power of the revelation itself.

What is Al-Kauthar?

The name 'Al-Kauthar' comes from the root Ka-tha-ra, meaning "much" or "plenty", translated by 'Abdullah Yusuf 'Ali as "the abundance" . It is said to have been revealed in Makkah, in the early part of Muhammad's mission, when he [The Prophet] was still under immense pressure from his foes, living in the midst of constant danger. Despite these disadvantages, the messenger of God is told, in essence, that he has been granted a perpetual and continuous gift of heritage- in the form of the Quranic revelation itself.

In another Surah, Muhammad is reminded of his humble origins, the blessings given to him, and that as a result, he is to be more steadfast in his dedication to the Divine will.

"Did he [Allah] not find you [O Muhammad] an orphan, then give you shelter, found you misled, then gave you guidance, found you in want, and enriched you?...And testify to the blessings of your Lord." [Qur'an 93:6-8, 11].

This is another reminder of Al-Kauthar given to the Prophet. Under normal circumstances, a person from such humble origins would live and die a forgotten person to history, however, the reality is that the text given to him, the Qur'an, is perhaps the most widely read, studied and memorized book in the world, and it is also quite clear that Muhammad is the most beloved character among mankind. He may have lost his sons to illness, but indeed his legacy has not been lost to the one billion strong Muslims worldwide, to the people who automatically say Sall-Allahu 'Alayhi wa sallam after repeating his name {ft.3}, to the people whose emotions are stirred to action when his name and character are maligned, as in the recent cartoon scandals.

In short, Muhammad the man was given a multitude of blessings in the form of the Qur'an itself, and Muhammad as God's final Prophet was consequently never forgotten, becoming a source of blessing and guidance for all humanity. {ft.4}

"Have We [Allah] not opened for you your chest, removed from you your burden, which placed strain on your back, and elevated for you your reputation [and standing]..?" [Qur'an 94:1-4]

Results of Al-Kauthar

We have a saying in the United States "to him whom much is given, much is expected". This expression is very applicable and related to the Prophet, his followers, and is, in short, the message of Surah Al-Kauthar.

"So, pray to your Lord and sacrifice. Surely, the one hateful to you [O Muhammad] will have no legacy" [Q 108:2-3]

The above verse begins with a particle of consequence["fa"], showing that devotion to spiritual growth, to the betterment of society , is only natural, after encountering the profound blessings of Allah, Subhaanahu wa Ta'aalaa. The actions of reflecting faith and blessings will be lasting, perhaps beyond the limits of our own thinking and imagination.

"{God swears} By the time. Truly, humans are in consistent loss. Except those who believe, perform righteous deeds, and enjoin to one another [the pursuit of] truth and patience" [Q 103:1-3]. A very clear example of this is given in the following Hadeeth:

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous decendant who prays for him (for the deceased)'' [Muslim].

The last verse of this profound Surah "Surely the one hateful to you [O Muhammad] will have no legacy" shows both the limited thinking of the Prophet's foes, as well as their fate. While they are willing to celebrate his personal tragedies, and inflict harm to him whenever possible themselves, they are shown to have arrogated to themselves a sense of importance and power. Yet, despite that, we are also shown that they were themselves insecure and quite jealous. They feel that Muhammad must be destroyed, at any cost. Many opponents of Islam are leading figures in other religious communities, and while a fear of losing followers to another religion is very normal and expected, what should not be expected is lying, slander and intentional misrepresentation of the Prophet's character, the propagation of falsehoods about the Qur'an itself, about Islam itself, from religious figures, despite the fact that their own religious texts finds such actions to be reprehensible. {ft.5}

In a personal sense, this verse has given a correct account of the fate of Muhammad's foes. Arabs in that time valued sons above all else, for it is the sons who would carry on the family line, and the philosophy [if any] of their fathers. Despite Muhammad's personal losses, his ideological heirs are countless, while there is none who claim to be associated with the line or legacy of Abu Jahl, Abu Lahab, and the other opponents.

Conclusion

This Surah, although very short, is also comprehensive in its approach and message. It is our humble view that this Surah should be displayed in Muslim Mosques and homes, in the places where prayer is observed, so that we are always reminded of the message. We would be reminded to always have the priorities in proper view, that to follow Muhammad is to worship God alone, and translate our faith into actions, for the sake of our own personal offspring, for the sake of the world. Our legacy, if we have that frame of thinking, will also last throughout time.

Footnotes

[1] Haykal, Muhammad Husayn The life of Muhammad, pp. 68-69 [Indiana, Plainfield, American trust publications, 1995 printing].

[2]Khan, Muhammad Muhsin Summarized Sahih Al-Bukhari, pp. 875-876 [Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Darus-salam publications, 1994 ].

[3] This phrase is usually rendered as "peace and blessings of God be upon him". AS of late, the translation "Prayers and peace be on him" has become increasingly popular. While this is a linguistically correct rendering, it is not the preference of the author, as it gives the mistaken notion that Muslims are to pray to the Prophet. This phrase actually has the sense of asking security, assistance, and protection to Muhammad, as well as his followers. For more information, obtain our lecture "The remembrance of Allah is the greatest" [CD] , in which the Quranic verses and Ahadeeth relating to this are examined. To obtain, e-mail

waheed79@yahoo.com

[4] See the Qur'an 21:107 and 7:158. Also see our entry in the work entitled The language of revelation[pp. 220-221 'Muhammad'] as well as pp. 216-218 ['Abraham']. For more information, e-mail waheed79@yahoo.com

[5] One good example of how lying is frowned upon in religion is in the following Biblical reference."Keep falsehood and lies far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread...Do not slander a servant to his master, or he will curse you, and you will pay for it." [Proverbs, 30:8, 10, NIV study Bible, Grand Rapids, Michigan, Zondervan, 2002.

Barack Obama, Rev.Wright and the controversy

2008-03-23T05:19:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I have written on the subject of American politics, however so much is happening that it seems prudent to record my thoughts and share them, both for the present as well as the future. By now, all of us in the entire World are aware of the controversy concerning Sen.Barack Obama's former pastor, Rev.Jeremiah Wright of Chicago, Illinois, who has made remarks highly critical of American policies past and present.

Sen.Obama gave a speech recently in Philadelphia, Pa. to address the issue, and was successful [in my view] in framing the issues in terms of historical animosities that has never been addressed in American society, such as Racism, classism, and an overall sense of injustice. One commentator made the observation that this was the first time that a candidate's choice of pastor and church have been scrutinized and made an issue in the election.

This brings us to another point, and that is that morality and fair play are long becoming forgotten principles in Politics, rather it has been replaced with financial and strategic interests. The cynisicm felt by the average American voter is not misplaced. The fact that the Pastor's views [which are widely shared, especially by African-Americans] can be used as a means to attack another person who has not ever expressed the same views speaks volumes to the conditions that exist today.

One pundit I saw on television compared Wright to the Prophets of Justice given in the Old Testament tradition. Perhaps that has some merit. While it is not needed to be rude or overbearing in our speeches and our actions, we must return to acting upon beliefs and moral principles, not simply in the name of financial or political expediency. The question the voters should be asking in this election season is "will the candidate act according to justice, fair play and principles"? I certainly hope so.

Obama aces Russert's Farrakhan test

2008-02-27T17:04:00.000-08:00

[ Below are excerpts from an article concerning the questioning of Sen. Barack Obama about Min.Louis Farrakhan's endorsement of him. My comments are below that]

Obama Aces Russert's Farrakhan Test

Wed Feb 27, 3:26 PM ET

The Nation -- In 1998, Grove Press published a nonfiction book, The Farrakhan Factor: African-American Writers on Leadership, Nationhood, and Minister Louis Farrakhan.

I edited the collection of fifteen essays by prominent black writers, academics, economists and historians because I felt that members of the mainstream press had hijacked the conversation about Farrakhan and black leadership in America. My goal at that time was two-fold: To allow blacks to define the meaning of political and social leadership, and to place Louis Farrakhan into historical context, in terms of the long line of blacks in the US who have been considered leaders over the decades.

Watching the Democratic presidential candidate's debate last night, the moment I've been dreading since Senator Barack Obama first announced his candidacy finally arrived: The Farrakhan Litmust Test, served up by a white male member of the establishment press, before an audience of millions.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/thenation/20080227/cm_thenation/45291669&printer=1

I was watching the debate last night, and I saw this sort of question. To me, politics is very dirty. Minister Farrakhan, although a controversial figure in American politics and religion, has much standing among African-Americans, and to attempt to trap Obama in this fashion was very underhanded, as was the recent distribution of him in traditional East African [read 'Muslim'] clothing.

By renouncing Farrakhan's endorsement, Obama risks alienating many people who would otherwise cast a vote in his favor. It is not because the voters like Minister Farrakhan and his 1960's rhetoric and advocacy of an unorthodox 'Islamic' ideology, but because they will view him as a coward, unable or unwilling to make the "change" his campaign ads speak about.

On the other hand, had he not disassociated himself from Farrakhan's comments about him, he would have certainly risked the entire campaign, as the Jewish community are indeed very powerful, he would have been seen as an anti-Semite, or guilt by association.

Politics is indeed dirty, and while this post should not be seen as an endorsement of Obama [or any other figure for that matter], I would like to see our leaders stand for what is right and what they believe to be right. It cannot always be an issue of catering to voters, saying what we want to hear. If the Economic situation requires raising taxes, so be it. Do it and do not apologize.

Those are the sort of leaders we need. People who will stand for what is right and what is in the best interests of America's most disadvantaged and disillusioned citizens.

Attainable personal growth [thoughts on intellectual/spiritual develpment]

2008-02-14T11:42:00.000-08:00

Every religious tradition has at least one shared commonality, despite the obvious and undeniable differences in theology, and that is ritual.For Muslims, it would be the communal prayers [Salaah], for Christians Choir singing in Church may serve this purpose, or a solemn reading of the Torah in the Jewish Synagogue. It can reasonably observed that all religions have at least the performance of a certain rite in common.

Ritual usually involved a group, in a religious place, a Mosque, Church, Temple, etc..where practitioners gather to perform these acts together. None can deny the power of such communal activity.

However, the presence of a building should not be an end goal, nor should the mere performance of ritual be seen as sufficient evidence to prove the "superiority" of one group over another! Group ritual worship that is devoid of thought, performed in a spirit of blind obedience, is actually quite useless.

The believer must be willing to always scrutinize their own ideology, values and surroundings. This is not rhetoric. This is accomplished by reading, study and the desire to take practical steps to learn and understand necessary information.

As an example of the problem facing the religious communities, I was recently invited to a local Mosque to conduct Arabic/Qur'an lessons. I arrived a bit early to prepare for the lesson, and while doing so I encountered two persons there at the Mosque for something else. I was told by one person in clear terms that if I was to be teaching there, I should "become a member". This person attempted to interrogate me as to what particular mosque I attend! Another person expressed interest in learning, but "only in my community"!

Putting aside the fact that I was asked by the Mosque staff to give these lessons, this attitude or mindset expressed in the incident reflects a horrible situation. From what I can tell, this is a good example of placing group sentiment above religious/spiritual interest. The Qur'an repeatedly gives quotations from its detractors, or the detractors of God's messengers as given in Quranic narratives, showing that this sort of problem has existed throughout human history. One such statement given by the detractors is that they "follow the ways of our fathers" [2:170].

For a Muslim, the issue of personal growth should be seen in the manner in which communal prayers are performed. The Muslim is to offer five daily obligatory [Fard] prayers. In Muslim societies, these prayers are done with a congregation in a Mosque. The Muslim also is obligated to offer congregational prayers, which is preceded by a sermon, in a Mosque on Fridays [Salaat-al -jumu'ah]. These prayers are conducted following the movements of the Imam, or prayer leader. Those following the Imam in the prayer have to listen to the Quranic texts he chooses to recite.

While this is very important, there is also the Nawaafil ["voluntary"] prayers, and the Sunnah prayers. These prayers are done alone, without a congregation. The one observing prayer can recite any text desired, and can do the prayers for whatever amount of time desired. This, in my view, is symbolic of the personal effort one must do in order to have any level of growth at all. It's a spiritual Jihad of great importance. Perhaps another analogy is that of schoolwork. The instructor tells the students to do such and such assignment, and read X amount of a certain book and understand its contents. However, if the student reads more and attempts to master all the texts related to the subject, undoubtedly the student will be successful in the subject, will master the subject, perhaps even greater than the teacher!

This article proposes the following steps in spiritual/intellectual evolution:

[A] Faith in God as the ultimate guide, as well as self-confidence.

[B] Accessing needed information wherever/whenever possible.

[C] Willingness to reject concepts, ideas or situations which clearly hinder happiness and growth.

[D] A consistent dedication to worship and supplication of God Almighty.

[E] Inquisitive mind, asking questions.

[F] Sincerity. This means being a serious student! As the Qur'an itself teaches, one cannot expect to gain from it while being insincere or flaky. [ Q 56:78]

[G] Discarding of bad habits and characteristics such as backbiting, Gossip, and hatred. This requires constant self-examination. For the Muslim, I would humbly recommend using the month of Ramadan to engage in this internal exam.

[H] Adoption of a moral base upon which one's spiritual experience can be constructed and eventually flourish. Some practical steps are given in the Qur'an 2:177, 17:23-39.

“With the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful. Praise is due to God, the Cherisher and sustainer of the Worlds. The Compassionate,The Merciful. Master of the Day of Judgment. It is you we worship, and it is you we seek assistance from. Guide us on the straight path. The path of those on whom you have bestowed blessings, not that of those you are angered with, nor of those misled” [ Qur’an 1:1-7]

Tauheed: understanding the Divine, monotheism as given in Islam

2008-01-30T12:52:00.001-08:00

As is well known, Tauheed, or Monotheism, is the fundamental principle of Islam. A person is considered a Muslim, accepted in the Islamic family of over 1 Billion members, by making a public statement acknowledging that Nothing deserves worship except God. This is known as the Shahaadah , the act of witnessing. [ft.1]

It is worthy to note the beginning words of the Shahaadah in order to understand the profound nature of the Islamic teaching further. In Arabic, we say Laa e-laaha ill- Allah. , usually translated as "No deity except Allah", or, as in the previous paragraph, "Nothing deserves worship except God". The word for "No" [ Laa ]
is a negation of a something with continuity or lasting.

This shows that God is a reality which exists beyond our limited concepts of time and space. This shows that there has never been a period in which Allah has not been in charge, or has not been the Lord, nourisher and sustainer. [ft.2]

Traditionally God has been described by Muslims as having Ninety-nine names, or adjectives. One such name is Al-Awwal , The First, while another is Al- AKhir. , the Last.

The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said that The best Dhikr[ contemplation] is Laa- e-laaha ill Allah.[Tirmidhi (hasan), Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, Ibn Hibban, Bayhaqi in Shu`ab al-iman, from Jabir ibn `Abd Allah].

By constantly recalling that statement of Tauheed, be it verbally, mentally or by other means, one's faith and devotion increases, and one will embrace what God has willed and avoid that which God has condemned.

Islam teaches that God is alone in his Lordship, and thus, should be worshiped alone as well. Prophets, Saints, etc.. should not be invoked in worship or in requests. Such acts constitute what is known as Shirk , a Polytheism which is utterly useless and spiritually defeating.

AND [YET] THEY WORSHIP [THINGS] OTHER THAN GOD, THAT WHICH CAN NEITHER BENEFIT NOR HARM THEM...25:55

And place your trust in the Living One [Al-Hayy] who does not die, and celebrate his praise, and he is sufficient as aware of the sins of his servants[ft.3] 25:58

In contrast to the practice of other faiths, the Muslims do not have portraits of The Divine, never seek to give human form to the Divine, and even have avoided portraying the face of the Prophets in order to avoid any potential for idolatry.[ft.4]

Any portrayals of the Divine through imagery, paintings, etc.etc. would be inadequate, and give a false or unwarranted image of God. This even extends to the terminology used in reference to the Divine. Most strands of Christianity, for example, will acknowledge the existence of God as One, and are counted as among the Monotheistic religions, yet the Islamic view of the Trinity is that such an idea, which teaches that God is manifested in the "persons" of God "The Father", The "Son" Jesus Christ, and the "Holy Ghost", creates a picture exactly the opposite of God as One, and thus should be rejected.

And do not proclaim 'Trinity' [Thulathaa], Stop! It is best for You, as Allah is one deity [alone]. He is Glorified[ and above] from even having a son. To him belongs what is in the heavens and the Earth, and Allah is sufficient as a disposer of affairs. 4:171

The reader should notice that both the Trinity and ideas of the Divine having children are refuted. The reason is simple when one examines the end of this verse, telling us that God Almighty controls the Universe, is the creator of all and All-Knowing, Aware, and Eternal. Under those circumstances, a "son" is not needed, nor is it necessary for God to be manifested in human flesh.

We are also told in the Glorious Qur'an:

Say: He is Allah alone! Allah the eternal. He does not give birth, nor was he given birth to, and nothing exists like him. 112:1-4

Verse 3 repeats two particles of negation in the Original Arabic text [Lam]. The particle Lam negates the past tense verb. In other words, God cannot be described in terms of having been "born"[Lam Yoolad], as that would imply that God had at some point a mother, father, etc... and thus strike at the Monotheistic foundation. God should not be described as having given birth, or siring, children, as that would imply some sort of Divine Family, which would also contradict the Monotheistic foundation.

For a Quranic description of the Divine, or rather the way we should see the Divine to the limit of our immediate capabilities, I would suggest reading 24:35, 2:255, and 59:22-24. Also 112:1-4 as cited above.

{Shamsuddin Waheed is an Imam, Quranic Arabic instructor and lecturer. He is frequently called upon in developing Interfaith relations and understanding, Quranic study and other such activities. He can be reached at waheed79-at-yahoo.com or his website www.islaminviewforum.com}

Footnotes.

[1] The second part of the Shahaadah reads "Muhammad is God's messenger" [ Muhammad Rasool Ullaah ]

[2] The author has explained this in more detail in The Divine Throne: an examination of Ayatul Kursiyy 2:255 which can be found at[http://islaminviewforum.com/index.php?showtopic=59] as well as other magazines and online sites.

[3] The Qur'an [ 51:56] teaches that humans have been created to serve God. To worship God is not limited to Prayer or ritual, but to the entire life of progression, spirituality and goodness. The verse here seems to be referring to the fact that God knows the "sins" of all in the creation.

[4] An example of this can be found in The Message , a Movie about the life of the Prophet Muhammad. Produced in 1976 by Moustapha Akkad, it represented the Prophet not with a face, character or even voice, but rather by a peaceful musical composition whenever required. see http: //www.imdb.com/name/nm0002160/bio

Jesus in Islam

2008-01-20T14:36:00.000-08:00

The Messiah

A very important personality to Muslims, Jesus Christ is mentioned by name in the Qur'an twenty-five times. He was Al-Maseeh [The Messiah], awaited by the Jewish people. The Jewish people expected a leader to defeat their enemies in a military conflict, however Jesus had a much greater and more difficult of a task, i.e. a mission of spiritual priorities and renewal, a rejuvenation of the intent of the law [of Moses], rather than blind obedience to ritual and tradition.

Woe to you, teachers of the Law and Pharisees, you Hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices-mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the most important matters of the law-justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel. [Matthew 23:23-24]

..Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and all your mind and all your strength. The second is this-'Love your neighbor as yourself' there is no commandments greater than these [Mark 12: 29-31]

Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone. [ Luke 11:42]

Died for mankind's sins?

The current ideas associated with the Messiah in Christendom, such as his death-sacrifice as atonement for mankind's sins, is not supported by Islamic teachings. We would like to point out some of the following Biblical texts food for thought.

"[John the Baptist said] Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not think you can say to yourselves 'We have Abraham as our father' I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire" [Matt. 3:8-10]

In this Biblical text, we have a lesson of personal responsibility and deeds which must be shown to have some sort of positive effect. Otherwise, faith is not useful to the believer. Also of interest, from the Bible, is Matt. 12:33, 13:31-34.

The same essential teaching is given in the Qur'an.

...And none can bear the burdens of another. Then, to your Lord is your return, he will tell you the truth of that which you disagreed about [Q 6:164]

None can bear the burden of another, man has nothing, except what he worked for, the result of his work will be seen {by God}. [Q 53:38-40 also see vv.41-48]

Son of God

Another point of difference between the Islamic teachings and Christian perspectives is the idea that Jesus Christ is the "son of God". In the Bible, this phrase, as well as similar phrases, are clearly used in a metaphorical sense, and should not be taken in a literal, physical sense. Please see as examples from the Bible Genesis 6:2,4, Exodus 4:22, Luke 3:38 and many other passages.

I have often pointed out in discussions and lectures with Christians that in many Eastern cultures, phrases such as "Father" "son' "Uncle" "Aunt" etc..are used to denote familiarity and respect, and is not understood to refer to blood-relationships.

To avoid such confusion, the Qur'an advocates using clear and unambiguous language when discussing the Divine, and the relationship to creation.

Say: He is God alone. God the eternal. He did not give birth, nor was he given birth to, and nothing exists like him. [Q 112:1-4]

In numerous other Quranic texts, the doctrine of God having children is addressed. Concerning Jesus himself, we are told:

Surely in God's sight, [the status of] Jesus is similar to that of Adam.He created him from dust, then said to him 'Be' and he was. [Q 3:59]

Divinity

It is well known that Islam does not accept the doctrine of Jesus' Divinity. Even from the Bible, we can find that Jesus prayed { Matt. 4:2}. If Jesus prayed, then to whom was he praying? To himself? Nonetheless, the doctrine has entered mainstream Christian ideology, and while we are not concerned here with how it entered the Christian religion, it should be noted that many in Christian ranks, on the basis of their own Biblical understanding, have not accepted this idea. Nonetheless, the Qur'an does claim to have a Christology that is pure and representative of the teachings of Jesus. Some examples are given below.

A man given scripture and wisdom, and designated as a Prophet, will not tell people 'Worship me' and not God. However, he would say 'Become devoted worshipers of the Nourisher {of the Universe}. You have taught scripture, and you have studied it.
And he would never order you to take angels and Prophets as Lords. Would he order you to rejection {Kufr}, after you have been submissive {to God}. [Q 3:79-80]

A vivid picture of the day of Judgment is given in the Qur'an, in which God is depicted as asking Jesus if he ever proclaimed Divinity for himself. To this, Jesus replies:

...I did not say to them anything except what you ordered me to say 'Worship God, my Lord and your lord... [ Q 5:117]

____________________________________________________________________

All Biblical quotes are taken from the NIV study Bible [2002, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

All Quranic texts are translated from the original Arabic by the author.

Introduction to Islamic teachings

2008-01-16T11:17:00.000-08:00

For all those readers interested, we have prepared some brief works which will serve as an introduction to the teachings of Islam. Any further inquiries into religion, as well as our other writings, CDs and lectures, can be made by leaving a message here or by e-mail.

The timeless religion [PDF format] by Shamsuddin Waheed

An introduction to the Qur'an [PDF format] by Shamsuddin Waheed.

Women in Islam [PDF format] by Faith Barrow-Waheed

Race consciousness and Islam: some thoughts on group identity and religious traditions.

2008-01-12T19:35:00.001-08:00

It is often said that the World population of Muslims constitutes an Ummah. After all, we are told, according to several sources, the Prophet Muhammad, upon whom be peace, said, that the Muslims are like a body, when one part is in pain, the whole is in pain. 1 Did he also not say "There is no superiority of an Arab over a Non-Arab, neither of an Non-Arab over an Arab, neither of a White over a Black, neither a Black over White.."? 2

These two sayings attributed to the Prophet, as well as other sayings and Quranic verses, have been understood by many Muslims, especially those who have accepted Islam in a Western environment, to teach that one must actually erase one's connections to their own prior culture and identity, and to adopt the culture and identity of others, to become immersed in an ultra-conservative "Islamic" culture.

Thus, it is not that unusual to see in Western cities men in traditional Indian or Arabic clothes, donning a Jalabiyyah or a Shalwar Kameez, believing this is a reflection of Islamic norm. It is also common for such enthusiastic converts, especially in the period early after their conversion, to be quite argumentative with other Muslims, urging them to follow suit in their choice of wardrobe. They often say that it is Sunnah, the Prophet's tradition, to somehow adopt this style.

Authentic Islamic culture?

To address this issue, one must understand that first and foremost, Islam is a religion, an ideology of Divine Origin whose main focus is spiritual. The Five pillars of Islam all revolve around theological constructs, and while it is indeed true that all Muslims share this in common, it does not seem prudent to call this a "culture". All societies and groups that have accepted Islam have many common features that have entered their cultures, but for a Muslim the only requirements are to obey God and his messenger (Muhammad) and to apply Islamic principles to life as much as possible.

The application of teachings not covered in the five pillars, what one may call secondary principles (Furu'), varies in style from place to place. Let us take an example of one such command from the Qur'an itself:

And say to the believing women, they should lower their gaze, guard their modesty, and place their head scarves [Khumuri-hinna] over their bosoms...[ 24:31]

This Quranic instruction has been applied in various ways in the Muslim world. While the intent and affect are the same, the style and method of application has varied, from the Tudung and Baju Melayu of the Malaysian Muslims, the various garments and scarves in the African countries, and so forth. All these have attempted to obey this Quranic directive, thus creating their own unique expressions.

Perhaps another good example is removing one's shoes upon entering a residence. This is done, religiously, upon entering a Mosque or when commencing prayers. These are the only times when it is necessary, but nonetheless removing shoes at the door of a house has entered the culture of many Muslims. We have pointed out these things to show that to accept Islam does not require abandoning one's culture, the only requirements are to Obey God and his messenger. Don't make the religion hard, as that is not the wish of God.

What about Muslim unity?

Strength exists in diversity. This is demonstrated in the last pillar of Islam, the Hajj. One will see in Makkah during the pilgrimage people of all colors, ethnicities, social and economic backgrounds, all gathered together for the worship of Allah. Another good example is the Salaah, performed in the same language, Quranic Arabic, in an universally recognized format. An Arab Muslim can go to a Mosque in Nigeria and find that the Salaah is performed in the same manner.

The spiritual practices of Islam create an environment in which brotherhood, tolerance, love and compassion can thrive and flourish. This does not require uniformity in thought, understanding and appearance.

And if God had so willed, he would have made you one 'Ummah', but [differences exist in order to] test you in what you have been given. So, compete with each other in goodness..[ Q 5:48] 3

Is Nationalism compatible with Islam?

The term 'Nationalism' means different things to different people. It can mean ethnic pride to one, racism and discrimination to another. There is nothing inherently wrong with national or ethnic pride, on the contrary, caring for and supporting worthwhile causes in one's community is noteworthy and commendable from an Islamic point of view.

This is especially important for Western Muslims to understand, as we are so quick to express solidarity with Muslims in other lands, suffering in 'Iraq, Palestine, Kashmir, etc.. and yet refuse to vote, on the grounds that it is of "no concern" to get involved in "Kafir politics". Too many of us who live in the West will engage in propagation work and not work to pay our bills and support our families.

Islam is a force of reality and spirituality. It should make us change for the better, not the worse. It is to be a source of enlightenment to the believer, and a source of mercy and assistance to any observer. It should not cause us to reject involvement in actions which are of benefit to our native societies, regardless of their religious label.

[God swears ] By the time, surely, humans are in consistent loss, except those who believe, do righteous works, and enjoin mutual [calling to] truth, and mutual [reminders of ] patience. [103:1-3]

Surely God does not change the condition of a people, until they change what is in themselves[13:11]

O believers! Save yourselves and your families from a fire whose fuel is men and stones [66:6]

On the other hand we have an equally distressing reality, and that is isolationism. Isolationism can be a vice, and not a virtue. Attitudes against Inter-racial marriages, or those that cross tribal or caste lines display ignorance of Islamic teachings, a lack of internalization of the words of Allah. Another example of isolationism is the idea prevalent among new Muslims that social interactions with the "disbelievers", even among Non-Muslim family members, are discouraged, creating unneeded tensions and bad feelings.

"O Mankind! Surely We have created you from a man and a woman; made you into nations and tribes, so that you will know each other. Surely, the most honorable of you in God's sight is the most dutiful [to God] among you"[ 49:13]

"And among his signs is the creation of the Heavens and the Earth, as well as the differences in your languages and colors. Truly, in these are signs for intelligent people"[ 30:22]

Islam is not a tribal or "group" religion. It is an invitation for all mankind. All of us are God's creation, and if we feel or treat someone different because of their tribal, religious, or racial label, we are actually treating that person as if they have been created by a different god. If we do that, then we are internalizing as well as externalizing Shirk, the worse sin. God wants us to love each other, to learn from each other. If we miss that lesson, then we have strayed far away from God, the Lord of the worlds.

In short, a balance must be found between ignoring one's own needs by advocating a cause far away, and the equally dangerous self-defeating isolationism, a feeling that one's own "Muslim group" is better than other Muslims on the other hand.

This balance is found not in reading inspiring words, but in true internalization of the words of Allah, of seeing all people as God's creation, worthy of respect and decent treatment, despite differences in opinion, theology, color, caste or ethnic origin.

Footnotes

[1] Mubarakpuri, Safi-ur-Rahman, Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum (Riyadh: Dar-us-Salam publications, 1996), pp. 466

[2] Sahih Bukhari 71:2026

[3] Obviously this verse refers to God's desire for diversity in his creation, not a single, monolithic picture. Also of interest is that this statement appears in a context of debate between the Muslims and the People of the Book.

The Best Hadeeth: past, present and future

2008-01-05T11:37:00.000-08:00

This article was published in a few Muslim publications. In it, I argue that Muslims need to be forward looking and not stuck upon our leaders' opinions or historical issues of little or no relevance today. I look forward to your feedback.

The Best Hadeeth: Past, Present, and Future

“Allah sends forth (naz-zala) the best hadeeth, a book of repetition and consistency, the skins of those who fear their Lord shake concerning it, then, their skins and hearts soften to remembrance of Allah. That is Allah’s guidance, He guides to it whom He wills. And whomsoever Allah allows to be misguided, then there is no one to guide him.” (Qur’an 39:23)
The message of this verse deserves serious contemplation. By examining this verse, we discover that in fact, it corrects many of the misconceptions we have concerning God and revelation. The second word of this ayah ‘naz-zala’ denotes a constant act. Allah is continuously revealing “the best hadeeth.” This is important information, for it helps us to clarify many misconceptions we hold concerning God and His revelation.
Often when reading the Qur’an, we read about God’s work as historical narrative only. We don’t think that these stories have much relevance to our lives today. This is a mistake! The work of God is always taking place. The Qur’an is the best hadeeth because Allah has given it the ability to speak to us, to give us guidance and enlightenment at all times, all situations, and all circumstances!
Let us examine more of this beautiful ayah. “…a book of repetition and consistency, the skins of those who fear their Lord…their skins and hearts soften to the remembrance of Allah. That is Allah’s guidance…” Certainly when we study Al Qur’an, we encounter many commands over and over again. It is given in such a format in which only the studious, God-respecting person can find guidance and appreciate its style. Elsewhere, we learn “None shall touch it, except those who are pure” (Qur’an, 56:79), mean the Qur’an is not for everybody, only for those who are serious about spiritual and intellectual development.
The Qur’an does not contain details on every aspect or command. However, it does something greater! It inspires the sincere believer to always strive to become a better and more effective soldier for Allah. That is the whole point of religion! It is not to force us to adopt the personality of a religious figure or to abandon our thoughts and feelings for those of another. Thus, we read “That is Allah’s guidance!”
The guidance of Allah is indeed the best guidance. We are to ask for it everyday. The form of guidance will change, as our lives, both collective and personal, are in continuous change. We are not to all have the same thoughts. To expect uniformity on all issues is unrealistic and by nature hazardous to our spiritual health!
In summary, we can and must benefit from our past, be it stories given in scripture or our past as civilizations, nations and groups. However, it is our present and future realities that we must focus on. If we fail to recognize this fact, our children will not be interested in Islam! They will see Islam as an impractical, boring faith held by their parents and grandparents. If we remember that the Qur’an and Islam will outlive all of us, that it is practical for all ages, that it does not center around any particular groups or personality ourselves, then our children will grasp that. They will study the religion and contribute towards a better world!

Human life and spirituality: a Quranic perspective

2008-01-05T11:32:00.000-08:00

The last section of the Qur’an, commonly called Juz’’Amma[ft.1] contains the most vivid references to Judgement day, Paradise and Hell, and the Hereafter. Yet, in the midst of reading about subjects related to the end, we also encounter tidbits of information about the beginnings as well. Take, for instance, the following Quranic statement “Surely, Man has been created very impatient” [70:19]

The verb Khuliqa [“created”] is passive, showing that mankind had no choice or option in the manner of his beginnings. A seemingly negative quality has been placed, in the Quranic narrative, in human nature. We next read “When touched by a portion of evil, fretful; and when touched by a gain [Khayr], stingy” [70:20-21]

Some may actually read into these Quranic observations a validation of the idea of Original sin, as found in most strands of Christianity. It is our view that such a view would be incorrect for several reasons, the main one being that original sin is usually presented as punishment brought about by the sin of disobedience committed by the first human pair[ft.2] , the atonement of which is found in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ[ft.3],. In addition to being “impatient” , the Qur’an also states that humans are “hasty”[ 17:11, 21:37] as well as “weak” [4:28, 30:54]

The question is obvious-for what purpose has God created humans with these negative characteristics? To answer this question, we look to the human child itself as the perfect example.These characteristics are certainly there in the newborn. They have a function! These characteristics are in need of channeling properly. A newborn is certainly In need of its loving family to provide food, shelter, and clothing. The parents have the role of not only providing these needs, but of also instilling morals and ethics in the child,. These lessons influence the child to adolescence, to adulthood.

The Qur’an has provided the guidelines by which humans are to evolve into what may be termed spiritual adulthood. “[Humans are generally impatient] except those who pray, are consistent in their prayers, who recognize that in their wealth there exists a right for the [needy] of those who ask and those who do not, who confirms the day of judgment, who fear the punishment of their Lord, ..Who guard their chastity, Who are trustworthy in contracts and agreements, who are honest in testimony, who guard their prayers, it is they who are honored in paradise” [70:22-35]

These steps are summarized in a very short text; “[God swears ] By the time, surely, humans are in consistent loss, except those who believe, do righteous works, and enjoin mutual [calling to] truth, and mutual [reminders of ] patience: [103:1-3]
Life is education, and the Qur’an is essentially providing the format and content of education, a stable foundation for maturation.

“Which then is best? He whose foundation is built upon dedication to God, and [seeking] his pleasure? Or he whose foundation is built upon a sand cliff, ready to crumble to pieces?” [9:109]

If any of these steps, as given in the Quranic texts cited, are missing or lacking in human life, spiritual maturity, happiness and contentment can not be attained.

“So, condemned are those who pray [Musal-leen], who observe prayer in a negligent manner, who do so[i.e. pray] to be seen, and [yet] refuses the assists neighbors” [107:5-7]

"And when they meet those who believe, they say ‘We believe’ [as well] and yet, when with their devilish [minded compatriots] they say ‘Surely, we are with you, we were simply joking]. God throws back their mockery on them, gives them rope in their trespasses, they wander blind [spiritually], it is they who have bartered guidance for error, their business transaction [actually] has no gain, and they are not guided. Their comparison is that of one who kindles a fire, when it is lighted around him, God took away their light, leaving them in darkness, they cannot see”[ 2:14-17]

[They were asked] ‘What led you to the Hell?’ They will reply ‘We did not pray, we did not feed the hungry, we used to engage in vanities with the vain, we dismissed judgment day as a false [myth] until there came to us the true reality” [74:42-47]

We should not make the mistake of assuming that “simply by” observing the steps given in the Qur’an , instant gratification will automatically follow. The steps are constant, a process of trial and error, which is in itself a learning experience.

“O believers! Fasting is prescribed on you, as it was on those before you, so that perhaps you will grow in dedication to God” [2:183]

“O mankind! Worship your Lord, who has created you as well as those before you, so that perhaps you will grow in dedication to God” [2:21]

Prayer and fasting, perhaps the most commonly practiced rituals in all religious traditions, are rituals designed to change one’s attitudes, to deepen one’s understanding and spiritual perception. If failure occurs, then it must be done again and again.

For Muslims, prayer is a requirement daily, fasting is a requirement for a minimum of one month, and so forth.[ft.4]

This article is a call for personal spiritual cultivation, in essence a reminder to ‘grow up’. This process may even require a re-examination of other aspects of our existence, from the concepts we hold, to the company we keep, to even the food we eat, and the income we earn! [ft.5]

An apt statement from the Christian scripture reads:

“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me” [1 Cor. 13:11, NIV]

We conclude with the following supplication in mind, arguably the most often read prayer in the world.

“With the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful. Praise is due to God, the Cherisher and sustainer of the Worlds. The Compassionate,The Merciful. Master of the Day of Judgment. It is you we worship, and it is you we seek assistance from. Guide us on the straight path. The path of those on whom you have bestowed blessings, not that of those you are angered with, nor of those misled” [ Qur’an 1:1-7]

Footnotes

[1]The Qu’an is divided into 114 chapters [Surahs], almost evenly into 30 sections [Ajza’] allowing for the entire text to be read in a monthly period. Its style is somewhat disjointed, for more thoughts on this, see our pamphlet in PDF format “An introduction to the Qur’an” available at http://islaminviewforum.com/index.php?act=...h&type=post&id=
]

[2] Islam rejects the notion of original sin, and teaches that all humans are responsible for their own actions. The Qur’an repeatedly states “And no soul shall bear the burdens of another” [6:162, etc...]

[3]This doctrine is expressed in the following words “For we know that our old self was crucified with him[Jesus] so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin” [Romans 6:2, NIV]

[4] Prayer is observed five times daily by practicing Muslims, and fasting in the month of Ramadan [per 2:185]. Of course, a great many Muslims pray and fast much more than this.

[5] Prayers and supplications should be directed to God Alone, according to Islamic teachings. Personalities, alive or dead, are of no assistance, despite whatever stature they hold. The Qur’an repeatedly addresses this point, in one verse we read “The parable of those who take for protectors other than God is that of a spider who has constructed for itself a house[i.e. spider web]. It is the weakest of houses, the spider web, if they only knew” [29:41]

The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said “Allah the almighty is good and accepts only that which is good…then he [Muhammad] ,mentioned [the case of] a man who, having journeyed far, is disheveled and dusty and who spreads out his hands to the sky saying ‘O Lord, O Lord!’ while his food is unlawful, his clothing unlawful, and he is nourished unlawfully, so how can he be answered?!” [Al-Nawawi’s Forty Hadith, Ezzedinne Ibrahim, page 40, Muslim, The Holy Koran publishing house, Beirut, Lebanon, 1979]