Advise for Muslim Prisoners

Introduction

Working for the better part of three years inside various correctional institutions as "the Muslim Chaplain", one thing we can say is that the Muslim community therein can be just as diverse and complex as any Masjid in the United States! Moreover, in doing this job, working with the brothers, as well as through consulting with others in the country who are likewise working in this field, it seems necessary to address certain issues in a way that will prove to be a benefit for our brothers. We have kept in mind the Prophetic maxim "Religion is sincere advise" [ Saheeh Muslim].

I'm a Muslim, so now what??

The faith is spreading rapidly in the prison system. The two main reasons are [a] the availability of Islamic literature, allowing readers to make educated decisions. [b] positive interactions with Muslim inmates, i.e. being impressed with the prayer regimentation, etc..

You, my dear brother in Islam, will notice that there is a great deal of diversity in the Muslim population inside, finding everything from the orthodox sects to groups such as the Moorish Science followers [who even have a 'different Qur'an'][ft.1], all of whom are claiming to be on the straight path. Confusion and perhaps a bit of disappointment is natural in these circumstances. Our advise is as follows:

[1] Be firm in the theological conviction that God is alone in worship, and that Muhammad was indeed his messenger!

[2] Make sure to structure your life, while serving your time, in accord with the spiritual necessities prescribed within the religion, such as daily prayers [Salaah], the fasting in Ramadan [Siyaam], and avoiding all together pork products.

[3] Evaluate all religious and theological claims with the Qur'an. To do that, you must be a consistent reader of the sacred text! This is especially important, as you will encounter many opinions written in books, tracts and by word of mouth. This function of the Qur'an, as a filter for religious truth and keeping out unsubstantiated assertions, is given within the Qur'an itself [see Q 25:1]

[4] Keep away from individuals and groups who clearly are out to create trouble by engaging in endless arguments, madh-hab disputations, and the like. Indeed, the Qur'an itself warns "Fitnah[ft.2] is worse than killing [ft.3]" [Q 2:191]


Released: know that Islam on the outside is different than that which was learned on the inside

There is an abundance of literature floating around the prison system, with attractive Arabic titles and seemingly giving all the right references to the Qur'an and Sunnah, yet many of these books are written for another time, place and context. Reading these books for years, upon release some of the brothers feel disappointed at the local Muslims ["On the streets"], seeking to argue down the Imams as those who are committing Bid'aah, "watering down" the faith, etc..[ft.4].

What happens next is sad, either the brothers stay away from Mosques, embracing an Un-Islamic life, or end up abandoning Islam all together! Of course, this is also in a worldly context, which we shall briefly touch upon.

Some more advise

[A] Before release, work hard to improve your condition. Get a GED, any training available that increases one's skills and abilities to get a job. Improve one's academic situation as well. Remember Malcolm X [Al Hajj Malik Al Shabazz], who copied the whole dictionary to improve his vocabulary, grammar and knowledge. Extend this advise to religion as well. Regularly read the Qur'an, and in particular a good biography of God's model for us, Muhammad [Peace be upon him]. We highly recommend The Life of Muhammad by Muhammad Husayn Haykal. The Sunnah is best exemplified in looking at the Prophet's life in context, rather than isolated quotes here and there!

[B] Upon release, stick to your local Masjid and all activities therein.

[C] Set worldly goals, such as job, housing, marriage.

[D] Do not associate with any people who engage in the activities leading to your imprisonment in the first place. In any way, shape or form, stay away from such. This means the alcohol, the drugs, the gangs, and we will go so far as to even add things such as cigarettes, the music and the style of dressing. Have the desire to be pure.

Wa Billaahit Tawfeeq

Footnotes

[1] The Moorish Science Temple of America have what they call The Holy Koran of the Moorish Science Temple. It's not the Qur'an, rather it is, mostly, material from the work The Acquarian Gospel of Jesus the Christ by Levi Dowling.

[2] Fitnah has different meanings and usages, both in Arabic and within the Qur'an. This writer has done extensive research into the term, published in essay form in The Language of Revelation: Classical Arabic language instruction and exercises with Qur'aan commentary [pp.221-226], available from Arifin Imports, PO Box 70617, Toledo, Oh 43607, www.arifinimports.com. Here, in this verse, the meaning is that of anarchy. Ibn Katheer [Tafseer Al Qur'aan al 'Adheem, volume 2 pg 105 Aleppo edition] suggests that Al Fitnah here means idolatry. Allah knows best!!

[3] Indeed, this is a wise Qur'anic assertion, for we all will die, but the greater death is that of a society in which chaos and hatred abound.

[4] This writer recalls an incident in which, while delivering a lecture at the Mosque, a visitor comes, challenges whether we are really in fact Muslims and our Mosque is really an authentic Mosque because women were present. This stems from the questioner's reading of materials printed in an area of the world where, by local custom, women are not allowed to attend the Mosques. The questioner admitted that it was, in fact, his first time in a Mosque, since he had "just been released". The irony in this is that women fully participated in both communal prayers and public life, centered at the Mosque, in the time of the Prophet Muhammad in Madinah, and that neither the Qur'an or hadeeth literature outlaw women's participation therein!

Qur'an: a Scripture that is to be Examined in aFull Manner

“So [know that] Allah is the exalted, King, the Ultimate reality. And be not in haste with the Qur’an while it is coming to you. And say “O My Lord, increase my knowledge.” [Qur’an 20:114]

The Qur’an [the word itself being a verbal noun, denoting something that is put together piece by piece, and part by part] is a Divine revelation, given to the Prophet Muhammad over a twenty-three year period. It is arguably the most widely read, memorized, and studied religious text in the world. Often, we assert that the Qur’an is ever relevant, examining its contents in light of current realities, one could make a mistake in saying it came in our own period, rather than fourteen centuries ago!

The verse above, which also adorns one of the walls outside at Toledo Masjid Al-Islam, is a striking example of that situation. God is the one who is above and beyond any of our limiting conceptualizations. He is that ‘ultimate reality’ [or Al-Haqq, as the original Arabic wording states] which has ‘always’ existed, that has no beginning nor ending. This Divine source of truth and light sends down to mankind guidance in the form of scripture, prophets and messengers. The verse is telling us, via the lips and mouth of God’s messenger and Last Prophet [Muhammad, peace and blessings be on him] that the process of revelation should not be sought after in a hurried fashion. It is also telling us that random quotes and sentences, citing them in order to win arguments or to make points, is inappropriate when dealing with most things, but especially so with the words of God! Thus, we read “And be not in haste…and say: “O My Lord, increase my knowledge.”

The latter supplication is a prayer that has become a part of the Muslim liturgy and tradition. It decorates the entrances to universities, classrooms and even Mosques. Surely, it is understandable that this has occurred. Yet, as we can see, its focus is not limited to secular knowledge. Indeed, we could easily apply the message of the entire verse to our interactions with others, other religions, politicians and their statements, our friends and foes alike. Anyone can take a random quote or statement and apply some meaning not intended by the speaker, and this has happened in many quarters with the Qur’an itself! Yet, God wants us to see the entire picture, to make decisions and judgments based on complete information, rather than one piece of something. This style of presentation is found throughout the Qur’an. Another verse that is relevant is “O believers! When a ‘Faasiq’ {an immoral person who breaks the rules of normal behavior] comes to you with information, investigate it before acting upon it, lest you harm a people unknowingly and afterwards have regrets. [Q 49:6]

Let us take this Qur’an in a full way, even for those not believing in it. At least know the whole story.

[ Shamsuddin Waheed is Imam at Toledo Masjid Al-Islam, 722 East Bancroft street, Toledo Ohio 43604.]

Muhammad the Prophet of Islam: Dispelling Some Misconceptions

As we compose this brief article, Muslims worldwide are celebrating the birthday of Muhammad ibn ‘Abdullah. Although specific details of the celebration vary from one nation to another, the Mawlud ur Rasool holiday includes poetic compositions, processions, dinners, exchange of gifts, Mosque attendance and special food for the poor.

It is important to note that Islamic religious texts [i.e. Qur’an and Prophetic narrations] do not lend any direct support for holding celebrations commemorating the Prophet’s birth, but at the same time we have to admit that we find little problem with it, in the sense that it gives an opportunity to share, especially with the youth and with those unacquainted with Islam, the Prophet’s legacy and teachings. [Ft-1 and 2]

As such, we have taken advantage of Mawlud to correct some misconceptions about the Noble Messenger of Allah, upon whom we ask God’s peace and blessings. It is also worth noting that some misconceptions and outright lies are generally propagated either by Christian missionaries of various sects or by Orientalist writers, whose agendas are obvious. Below, we present thoughts on some of those wrong ideas.

[1] Muhammad was obsessed with women

Arguably the leading accusation, this idea is presented as an alleged contrast with Christian ‘moralists’ who uphold the celibacy of Jesus Christ versus the polygamy practiced by the Messenger. What seems to get ignored when this charge is brought up is that the institute of polygamy was [and arguably still is in parts of today’s world] a means to seal political and family alliances, as a way to unite peoples and heal hostilities. In addition to this, in times of war when men would fall on the battlefield, polygamy was a means of social welfare for widows and children. The Prophet’s marriages, taking place after the death of his beloved Khadijah, must be viewed in this light. [ft.3]

[2] Blood thirsty killer

This is very far from the truth. His congenial nature was well known even before the Qur’anic revelation. When the revelation did come, he and his growing number of followers suffered persecution, and the enemy did not stop when the Prophet migrated to Madinah. Rather, they continued their plotting and their attacks. It was only in response to these that fighting for survival was finally ordered [Q 2:190]. In this regards, we must also understand that the Qur’an says “and if they [the enemy] sue for peace- then you [O Muslims] must also sue for peace, and place your trust in God, He is the Hearer, the Knower.” {Q 8:61]

[3] Relations between Muhammad and the Jewish tribes

In Madinah, when the Prophet moved there, he made treaties with the Jewish tribes there, as well as in other places, Yet, as the history books tell us, these groups, motivated by ethnic prejudices and jealousy, not only broke their treaties, they even were involved in plots to kill the Prophet! The details are beyond the scope of our article, but we refer the reader to “The life of Muhammad” by Muhammad Husayn Haykal, pp 271-283.

How should Muhammad be viewed?

His son in law and the eventual fourth Khalifah of the Muslim community after his [i.e. the Prophet’s] death, ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib, is reported to have observed:

“He treated the [material] world disdainfully and regarded it low. He held it contemptible and hated it. He conveyed from Allah the pleas [against committing sin], counseled his people as a warner, called towards paradise as a conveyer of good tidings.” [Nahjal Balaaghah, page 71]

His wife ‘A’ishaa bint Abi Bakr says “His character was the Qur’an.” [ Saheeh Al-Bukhari ]


His student and relative Ibn ‘Abbas says “Allah’s messenger, Sall Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, was the most generous of people in charity…” [Saheeh Muslim]

“And We [Allah] have sent you [O Muhammad] to be nothing more except as a mercy to all nations.” [Qur’an 21:107]

Final advice

Allah Almighty preserved the Qur’an, and has said therein that the Prophet was a model “for any who hopes in Allah, the final day, and remember Allah often.” [Q 33:21]. The Qur’an has preserved just about all of the details we, as lay people, would need about the Prophet. His struggles with faith and family, marriages and leadership, even his internal thoughts are often found therein. So, for us lay people who do not have the time, patience or ability to shift through materials determining what is authentic and what is not, we need only look at the Qur’an. Look at the ‘say verses’. Look at the earliest Soorahs, which are mostly found in the last sections of the text, and you will find a man who was quite normal, who is sufficient for believers as a practical guide.

Footnotes

[1] In Al Maulud Fil Islaam: Innovation and true belief according to Qur’an and Sunna and the scholars of Islam, the author, Shaikh Hisham Kabbani, attempts to extract religious texts to justify the traditional observances of the Prophet’s birthday, yet at the beginning of his treatise he does admit “ ..other celebrations, like Mawlid, the Prophet’s birthday-peace be upon him-are neither obligatory nor forbidden.” [pg 1, Haqqani Islamic foundation, Fenton, Michigan, 1994 edition]

[2] We have attempted to be fair with regards to the issue of celebrating the Prophet’s birthday. After all, it has become a part of Muslim culture, and as long as there is no danger of idolatry, it can be a good opportunity to pass along Islamic knowledge. There are some extremes among Muslims on issues like this. Saudi Arabia is probably the only Muslim nation that does not have the Prophet’s birthday as a national holiday, and scholars from the Salafi Manhaj regularly preach against it. The opposite side of that coin is that of many Muslims who not only celebrate his birthday, but who have rather odd supernatural beliefs about him, such as his actually not being human, but having been created out of light [the Noor –e Muhammad as expressed in Urdu], that he actually joins certain groups when they pray. This personality cult and exaggerated status of a man is just the sort of thing that Islam stands against, and it is under these circumstances that we understand full well the reluctance of some authorities to allow such celebrations. It is also worth sharing that there are some among the Muslim ranks who reject ‘traditional Islam’ including the ‘Eids, and obviously Mawlud, yet the same people, in our experience at least, have no qualms issuing greetings for Christmas, St. Valentine day, and even Halloween!

[3] For the Islamic teaching on polygamy, see our “Polygamy and societal norms” at shamsuddinwaheed.blogspot.com.

What the HELL is wrong with American politics?

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

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

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

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