The 3 categories of Punishment in the Shariah (Islamic Law)

There are three categories of punishments in Shariah:

The first is Hadd, which includes divinely prescribed forms of fixed punishment based upon the Qur’an and Sunnah. These are punishments set to preserve the public interest; they cannot be lightened nor made heavier, nor can the offender be pardoned. They instill a deep feeling of abhorrence in the society towards the crime for which the offender has been punished. Such crimes include drinking alcohol, armed robbery, theft, illicit sexual relations, apostasy, and slanderous accusations of promiscuity.

The second form is called Qisas, which is the punishment for homicide and assault. Whenever a person causes physical harm or death to another, the injured or family of the deceased has the right to retaliation. A unique aspect of Qisas, is that the victim’s family has the option to insist upon the punishment, accept monetary recompense, or forgive the offender, which could even avert capital punishment. This leaves the door open to compassion and forgiveness. Settlements are therefore encouraged outside of court, as a judge must exact the punishment.

All other crimes fall into the third category, Ta`zir, which is a discretionary punishment decided by the court.

So, in the light of this, one cannot just brandish Islamic penal codes as being too harsh or inhumane while neglecting the fact that the source of those penal codes is the Mighty Lord, the Supreme Lord of the Universe. Everything with Him has been measured with absolute perfection. This perfection is reflected in the strict procedures laid down before a person can be convicted and punished. Actually, all forms of punishment stipulated by Shari`ah are more reforming and more successful in preventing recurrent crime than the man-made legal systems whose futility is proved and confirmed by daily incessant crimes, with prisons becoming homes to homosexuality and schools for harboring criminal behavior.

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Based, with slight modifications, on “Punishment in Islam: An Eye For An Eye?” Al-Haramain Online Newsletter, Volume 4, Issue 8, 1st Rabi` Ath-Thani 1421 A.H. (July 2000).

Punishment in Islam

Punishment has always played an integral part in the concept of justice. We all know or at least expect that if you do something wrong you are subject to punishment in some way or another. This is only fair. Humankind is charged with the responsibility for the choices they make. This is because they are created with the freedom of choice and granted the moral sense of right and wrong. Accordingly, one is not to be punished for the actions of others, or for acts done under duress or because of insanity. All people are equal and innocent until proven guilty: only then punishment is considered.

Islam considers crime an act of injustice towards society, a sin against oneself and a transgression against Allah. Punishment is not atonement nor does it erase the sin. A sin is only forgiven through repentance. However, crime is an act of inflicting harm upon society that cannot be forgiven by repentance alone.

The object of all penal systems is to punish the offender and protect society from reoccurrence of the crime. Punishment serves as an educational purpose, as well as a form of crime deterrent and prevention and the system used must achieve this aim. However, if societies were to rely only upon their systems of punishment, they would fail miserably. An environment of healthy morality and faith must be the norm, where to do right is encouraged by all and to do wrong is discouraged and found difficult. In fact, encouraging right and forbidding wrong is a foremost duty in Islam.

Most penal systems in today’s societies are based and dependent on the current social sentiment. In Islamic law, punishment is based upon divine revelation. There is no leeway for sentiment or possibility of change. These laws were established by the Creator who is Infinitely Wise and Merciful, Who knows the true affairs of the world better than humankind. To seek justice without recourse to divine help would be tragic, as all other sources of knowledge and theory are flawed by human imperfection.

Justice is the ruling spirit of Islamic law, which is known as the Shari`ah. One of the main reasons for which the Prophets (peace be upon them all) were sent were to guide mankind to justice.

In this connection, Allah, Most High, says:

“We sent our messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance so that men may conduct themselves with justice.” (Qur’an 57:25)

“O you who believe, be upholders of justice, witnessing for Allah alone.“ (Qur’an 4: 135)

Changes in the world as well as the changing definition of concepts such as “civilized”, “equality”, “freedom”, and “justice” have caused a critical light to shine upon Islamic laws. Such critics charge that the Shari`ah, in view of the changing world, is an outdated system of laws in need of amendment, replacement or abolishment. Views of this sort express rejection of divine guidance and even worse, rejection of the wisdom of our Lord who has put us on this earth with a purpose in life and a set of rules to live by and achieve that purpose. These rules are the ultimate criterion of justice and mercy and cannot nor need not be changed or measured against the changes and desires of society. To imply such is to imply imperfection in Allah as Lord and Master of the Universe. _______________________________________
Based, with slight modifications, on “Punishment in Islam: An Eye For An Eye?” Al-Haramain Online Newsletter, Volume 4, Issue 8, 1st Rabi` Ath-Thani 1421 A.H. (July 2000).

The Return of Jesus (p.b.u.h.)

Muslims believe that Jesus (p.b.u.h.)* -(known as Isa in Arabic) was sent down as a Prophet of Allah (God), but he (Jesus) is not God, nor the son of God. Muslims do not believe that Jesus (p.b.u.h.), is dead or was ever crucified. We believe that he was raised to heaven and is there, and will descend at the appointed time, end all wars, and bring peace to the world.

Like Jesus (p.b.u.h.), Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) is also a Prophet and Messenger. Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) is the last Prophet though, and there will be no other one after him. Hence, Islam is the last religion, complete, with the Holy Qur’an as the unchanged and perfect word of God for over 1400 years; as God promised to preserve it till the last day for all of humankind, unlike sacred texts of other religions which have multiple versions and are revised periodically.

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The Physical Features of prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h)
He will be of average height. His hair spread to the shoulders, straight, neat and shining as after a bath. On bending his head, it will seem as if pearls are falling. He will have an Armour on his body. He will be wearing two pieces of cloth light yellow in color.

His Decension
He will descend on a group that will be righteous at the time and comprising of 800 men and 400 women. The people will be preparing for war at the time against Dajjal (the anti-Christ). It will be time for the morning prayers (the prayer before sunrise), and Imam Mahdi (his coming is expected before the coming of Jesus (p.b.u.h.) will be leading the prayer.

From the darkness of the dawn, a sound will suddenly be heard that “one who listens to your pleas has come” – the righteous people will look everywhere and their eyes will fall on Jesus (p.b.u.h). Briefly, at the time of morning, Jesus (p.b.u.h) will descend. When descending, Jesus (pbuh)’s hands will be on the shoulders of two angels. On their insistence prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h.) will introduce himself. He will inquire about their enthusiasm and thoughts on Jihad (Holy War) against Dajjal (anti-Christ).

Prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h.) will descend on the eastern side near the Minaret in Damascus. At the time Imam Mahdi will have proceeded forward to lead the morning prayer. Imam Mahdi will call prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h) to lead the prayer, but he (prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h) will instead tell Imam Mahdi to lead the prayer since the Iqaamat of that prayer has already been said for him. Thus Imam Mahdi will lead the prayer, and prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h) will pray behind him. After the ruku (prostration-bowing), he will make this statement: “Allah has killed Dajjal and the Muslims have appeared.”

The Killing of Dajjal (anti-Christ) and the Victory of the Muslims

After the completion of the morning prayer, prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h.) will open the door behind him where Dajjal (anti-Christ) accompanied by 70,000 Jews will stand. At that time every none believer on whom the breath of prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h.) will reach, will die. His breath will reach up to the distance of his eyesight.

The Muslims will then come down from the mountains and break loose on the army of Dajjal. There will be war, Dajjal will retreat, and prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h) will pursue Dajjal. He will have two flexible swords and one shield with him and with these he will kill Dajjal at the Gate of Hudd. He will then show the Muslims the blood of Dajjal on his shield. Eventually the Dajjal army will be killed. The swine will be killed and the cross broken. People will revert to Islam. Wars will end, and people will return to their respective countries. One group of Muslims will remain in his service and companionship.

Prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h) will go to Fajr Rawha and perform Hajj or Umrah (or both) from there. He will also go to the grave of Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) and present his greetings whereby Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) will reply. People will live comfortable lives. The wall of Yajooj and Majooj (Gog and Magog) will then break.

What will happen after the killing of the anti-Chirst

Prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h) will descend and stay on earth.
His ascension will be in the last era.He will be a just ruler and a fair judge.
He will act himself and instruct others on the Qur’an/The traditions of Muhammad (p.b.u.h.)/Islamic Law.
He will lead people in Prayer.
He will stay on earth for a period of 40 years after descending.
Allah will protect his companions from hell fires.
Those who will save Islam by associating themselves with Prophet Jesus (p.b.u.h) will be amongst the most loved by Allah.
During this period all other religions besides Islam will perish, hence there will be no non-believers in the world.
Jihad will be stopped.
Wealth and property will be in surplus to such an extent that there will be no one to accept the wealth of the other (everyone will be independent).
Receiving Alms-giving, Charity to poor will be discarded as there will be no poor to receive them.
The people will love prostration to God more than the world and what it consists of.
There will be peace, harmony and tranquility during the time of prophet Jesus (pbuh)’s stay in the world.
There will be no animosity for a period of seven years, even between two people.
All hearts will be free from envy, hatred, malice and jealousy.
For a period of forty years no one will fall ill or die.
Venom will be taken out of all venomous animals.
Snakes and scorpions will not harm anyone to the extent that if a child put his hand in its mouth, he will not be harmed.
Animals will not harm anyone.
The camels will graze among lions, cheetahs with cattle and the jackals with goats.
The fertility of the land will increase to such an extent that even if a seed is planted in a hard rock, it will sprout.
A pomegranate will be so huge that a group of people will be able to eat it and the people will use its peel as shade.
There will be so much blessing in milk that a camel will suffice for a huge group, a cow for a tribe and a goat for a family.
Life will be most pleasant.

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(p.b.u.h.)* = peace be upon him

MAJOR signs of the Day of Judgment

People can deny it as long as they want to. The fact remains that this day will arrive without doubt. And on this day the world shall see the truth. Some would be ready while others will face this day in sorrow and pain. Allah is Merciful; never would he make us face a test too great for us to bear.

This life is a chance He has given us to pass this test; and dwell eternally in the gardens of Heaven. We can either take it or leave it…the choice is ours.

What have we got to loose?

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50 Signs of the Day of Judgment

“Are they waiting for anything except the Hour, to come to them suddenly? But its Signs have already come!” (Qur’an)

Past

1. Splitting of the Moon.

2. Death of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.

3. A form of death which will kill thousands of Muslims. (The plague of Amwas during the caliphate of ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab.)

4. A major fighting in Madinah (The battle of al-Harrah during the caliphate of Yazid, 63 AH).

5. The Muslim conquest of Jerusalem.

6. The Muslim conquest of Constantinople.

7. Two large groups of Muslims will fight in war.

8. A war between the Muslims and a reddish people with small eyes, wearing sandals made of hair (The Mongol Tatar invasion of the Islamic lands.)

9. A peace agreement between the Muslims and non-Muslims from the yellow race (Chinese, Mongols, etc.)

10. Thirty impostors will appear, each thinking he is a prophet.

Present

11. Naked, destitute, barefoot shepherds will compete in building tall buildings.

12. The slave-woman will give birth to her master or mistress.

13. A trial which will enter every Arab household.

14. Knowledge will be taken away (by the death of people of knowledge), and ignorance will prevail.

15. Wine (intoxicants, alcohol) will be drunk in great quantities.

16. Illegal sexual intercourse will become widespread.

17. Earthquakes will increase.

18. Time will pass more quickly.

19. Tribulations will prevail.

20. Bloodshed will increase.

21. A man will pass by the grave of another and wish he was in the latter’s place.

22. Trustworthiness will be lost, i.e. when authority is given to those who do not deserve it.

23. People will gather for prayer, but will be unable to find an imam to lead them.

Future

24. The number of men will decrease, whilst the number of women will increase, until for every man there are 50 women.

25. The Euphrates will reveal a treasure of gold, and many will die fighting over it, each one hoping to be the one who gains
the treasure.

26. The Romans (Europeans) will come to a place called A’maq or Wabiq, and an army of the best people will go forth from Madinah to face them.

27. The Muslim conquest of Rome.

28. The Mahdi (guided one) will appear, and be the Imam of the Muslims.

29. Jesus Christ will descend in Damascus, and pray behind the Mahdi.

30. Jesus will break the cross and kill the swine, i.e. destroy the false christianity.

31. The Antichrist (al-masih al-dajjal, the false christ) will appear, with all his tools of deception, and be an immense trial. He will be followed by 70,000 Jews from Isfahan (present-day Iran).

32. The appearance of Ya’juj and Ma’juj (Gog and Magog), and the associated tribulations.
33. The emergence of the Beast from the Earth, carrying the Staff of Moses and the Seal of Solomon, who will speak to the people, telling them they did not believe with certainty in the Divine Signs.

34. A major war between the Muslims (including Jews and Christians who truly believe in Jesus after his return) led by the Imam Mahdi, and the Jews plus other non-Muslims led by the Antichrist.

35. Jesus will kill the Antichrist at the gate of Ludd (Lod in present-day Israel, site of an airport and a major Israeli military base).

36. A time of great peace and serenity during and after the remaining lifetime of Jesus.

37. Wealth will come so abundant that it will become difficult to find someone to accept charity.

38. Arabia will become a land of gardens and rivers.

39. Society will then decay.

40. The buttocks of the women of the tribe of Daws will again sway in circumambulation (tawaf) around the idol Dhul-Khulsah.

41. A great fire in the Hijaz, seen by the inhabitants of Busra.

42. Three major armies will sink into the earth: one in the east, one in the west, one in Arabia.

43. An Abyssinian leader with thin shins will destroy the Ka’bah.

44. The huge cloud of smoke.

45. The sun will rise from the west (its place of setting).

46. A gentle wind which will take the souls of the believers.

47. There is no-one left on the earth saying, “Allah, Allah” or “There is no god except Allah.”

48. Eventually the Day of Judgment is established upon the worst of the people, who copulate like donkeys in public.

49. The blowing in the Trumpet by the Angel Israfil, upon which everyone will faint except as Allah wills.

50. The second blowing in the Trumpet, upon which everyone will be resurrected.

Life after death

How Do Muslims View Death?

Muslims believe that the present life is a trial in preparation for the next realm of existence. When a Muslim dies, he or she is washed and wrapped in a clean, white cloth (usually by a family member) and buried after a special prayer, preferably the same day. Muslims consider this a final service that they can do for their relatives and an opportunity to remember that their own existence here on earth is brief.

The question of whether there is life after death does not fall under the jurisdiction of science, as science is concerned only with classification and analysis of sense data. Moreover, man has been busy with scientific inquiries and research, in the modern sense of the term, only for the last few centuries, while he has been familiar with the concept of life after death since time immemorial.

All the Prophets of God called their people to worship God and to believe in life after death. They laid so much emphasis on the belief in life after death that even a slight doubt in it meant denying God and made all other beliefs meaningless.

The very fact that all the Prophets of God have dealt with this metaphysical question of life after death so confidently and so uniformly – the gap between their ages in some cases, being thousands of years – goes to prove that the source of their knowledge of life after death as proclaimed by them all, was the same, i.e. Divine revelation.

We also know that these Prophets of God were greatly opposed by their people, mainly on the issue of life after death, as their people thought it impossible. But in spite of opposition, the Prophets won many sincere followers.

The question arises: what made those followers forsake the established beliefs, traditions and customs of their forefathers, notwithstanding the risk of being totally alienated from their own community? The simple answer is: they made use of their faculties of mind and heart and realized the truth.

Did they realize the truth through perceptual consciousness? They couldn’t, as perceptual experience of life after death is impossible. God has given man besides perceptual consciousness, rational, aesthetic and moral consciousness too. It is this consciousness that guides man regarding realities that cannot be verified through sensory data. That is why all the Prophets of God while calling people to believe in God and life after death, appeal to the aesthetic, moral and rational consciousness of man.

For example, when the idolaters of Makkah denied even the possibility of life after death, the Qu’ran exposed the weakness of their stand by advancing very logical and rational arguments in support of it:

And he (i.e. man) presents for Us an example (i.e. attempting to establish the finality of death) and forgets his [own] creation. He says, “Who will give life to bones while they are disintegrated?” Say, “He will give them life who produced them the first time; and He is, of all creation, Knowing.” [It is] He who made for you from the green tree, fire, and then from it you ignite. Is not He who created the heavens and the earth Able to create the likes of them? Yes, [it is so]; and He is the Knowing Creator. (Qur’an, 36:78-81)

On another occasion, the Qur’an very clearly says that the disbelievers have no sound basis for their denial of life after death. It is based on pure conjecture:

And they say, “There is not but our worldly life; we die and live (i.e. some people die and others live, replacing them) and nothing destroys us except time.” And they have of that no knowledge; they are only assuming. And when Our verses are recited to them a clear evidences, their argument is only that they say, “Bring [back] our forefathers, if you should be truthful.” Say, “God causes you to live, then causes you to die; then He will assemble you for the Day of Resurrection, about which there is no doubt,” but most of the people do not know. (Qur’an, 45:24-26)

Surely God will raise all the dead. But God has His own plan of things. A day will come when the whole universe will be destroyed and then the dead will be resurrected to stand before God. That day will be the beginning of a life that will never end, and on that day every person will be rewarded by God according to his or her good or evil deeds.

The explanation that the Qur’an gives about the necessity of life after death is what the moral consciousness of man demands. Actually, if there is no life after death, the very belief in God becomes meaningless or even if one believes in God, it would be unjust and indifferent God, having once created man and now not being concerned with his fate.

Surely, God is just. He will punish the tyrants, whose crimes are beyond count – having tortured and killed hundreds or thousands of innocent people, created great corruption in society, enslaved numerous persons to serve their whims, etc., because man has a very short life span in this world and because numerous individuals are affected by one’s actions, adequate punishments and rewards are not possible in this life. The Qur’an very emphatically states that the Day of Judgment must come and that God will decide the fate of each soul according to his or her record of deeds:

But those who disbelieve say, “The Hour (i.e. the Day of Judgment) will not come to us.” Say, “Yes, by my Lord, it will surely come to you. [God is] the Knower of the unseen.” Not absent from Him is an atom’s weight within the heavens or within the earth or [what is] smaller than that or greater, except that it is in a clear register – That He may reward those who believe and do righteous deeds. Those will have forgiveness and noble provision. But those who strive against Our verses [seeking] to cause failure (i.e. to undermine their credibility) – for them will be a painful punishment of foul nature. (Qur’an: 34:3-5)

The Day of Resurrection will be the Day when God’s attributes of Justice and Mercy will be in full manifestation. God will shower His mercy on those who suffered for His sake in the worldly life, believing that an eternal bliss was awaiting them. But those who abused the bounties of God, caring nothing for the life to come, will be in the most miserable state. Drawing a comparison between them, the Qur’an says:

Then is he whom We have promised a good promise which he will meet [i.e. obtain] like he for whom We provided enjoyment of worldly life [but] then he is, on the Day of Resurrection, among those presented [for punishment in Hell]? (Qur’an: 28:61)

The Quran also states that this worldly life is a preparation for the eternal life after death. But those who deny it become slaves of their passions and desires, making fun of virtuous and God-conscious persons.

Such persons realize their folly only at the time of their death and wish to be given a further chance in the world but in vain. Their miserable state at the time of death, and the horror of the Day of Judgment, and the eternal bliss guaranteed to the sincere believers are very clearly and beautifully mentioned in the following verses of the Qur’an:

[For such is the state of the disbelievers], until, when death comes to one of them, he says, “My Lord, send me back that I might do righteousness in that which I left behind (i.e. in that which I neglected).” No! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected. So when the Horn is blown, no relationship will there be among them that Day, nor will they ask about one another. And those whose scales are heavy [with good deeds] – it is they who are the successful. But those whose scales are light – those are the ones who have lost their souls, [being] in Hell, abiding eternally. The Fire will sear their faces, and they therein will have taut smiles (i.e. their lips having been contracted by scorching until the teeth are exposed). (Qur’an: 23:99-104)

The belief in life after death not only guarantees success in the Hereafter but also makes this world full of peace and happiness by making individuals most responsible and dutiful in their activities.

Think of the people of Arabia before the arrival of the Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.). Gambling, wine, tribal feuds, plundering and murdering were their main traits when they had no belief in life after death. But as soon as they accepted the belief in the One God and life after death they became the most disciplined nation of the world. They gave up their vices, helped each other in hours of need, and settled all their disputes on the basis of justice and equality. Similarly the denial of life after death has its consequences not only in the Hereafter but also in this world. When a nation as a whole denies it, all kinds of evils and corruption become rampant in that society and ultimately it is destroyed.

The Qur’an mentions the terrible end of Aad, Thamud and the Pharaoh in some detail:

[The tribes of] Thamud and Aad denied the Striking Calamity [i.e. the Resurrection]. So as for Thamud, they were destroyed by the overpowering [blast]. And as for Aad, they were destroyed by a screaming, violent wind which He [i.e. God] imposed upon them for seven nights and eight days in succession, so you would see the people therein fallen as if they were hollow trunks of palm trees. Then do you see of them any remains? And there came Pharaoh and those before him and the overturned cities (i.e. those to which Lot was sent) with sin. And they disobeyed the messenger of their Lord, so He seized them with a seizure exceeding [in severity]. Indeed, when the water overflowed, We carried you [i.e. your ancestors] in the sailing ship (i.e. which was constructed by Noah). That We might make it for you a reminder and [that] a conscious ear would be conscious of it. (Qur’an: 69:4-12)

Events of the Day of Judgment

God states in the Qur’an about the events of the Day of Judgment:

Then when the Horn is blown with one blast, and the earth and the mountains are lifted and leveled with one blow [i.e. stroke] – Then on that Day, the Occurrence [i.e. Resurrection] will occur, And the heaven will split [open], for that Day it is infirm (i.e. weak, enfeebled and unstable). And the angels are at its edges. And there will bear the Throne of your Lord above them, that Day, eight [of them]. That Day, you will be exhibited [for judgment]; not hidden among you is anything concealed (i.e. any person or any secret you might attempt to conceal). So as for he who is given his record in his right hand, he will say, “Here, read my record! Indeed, I was certain that I would be meeting my account.” So he will be in a pleasant life – In an elevated Garden, Its [fruit] to be picked hanging near. [They will be told], “Eat and drink in satisfaction for what you put forth (i.e. literally, advanced in anticipation of reward in the Hereafter) in the days past.” But as for he who is given his record in his left hand, he will say, “Oh, I wish I had not been given my record, and had not known what is my account. I wish it [i.e. my death] had been the decisive one (i.e. ending life rather than being the gateway to eternal life). My wealth has not availed me. Gone from me is my authority.” [God will say], “Seize him and shackle him. Then into Hellfire drive him. Then into a chain whose length is seventy cubits insert him.” Indeed, he did not used to believe in God, the Most Great. (Qur’an: 69:13-33)

The Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) taught that three things continue to benefit a [believing] person even after death - charity which he had given (which continues to benefit others), beneficial knowledge which he had left behind (i.e. authored or taught), and supplication on his behalf by a righteous child.

Thus, there are very convincing reasons to believe in life after death:

1) All the Prophets of God have called their people to believe in it.

2) Whenever a human society is built on the basis of this belief, it has been the most ideal and peaceful society, free of social and moral evils.

3) History bears witness that whenever this belief is rejected collectively by a group of people in spite of the repeated warning of the Prophet, the group as a whole has been punished by God even in this world.

4) Moral, aesthetic and rational faculties of man endorse the possibility of the life after death.

5) God’s attributes of Justice and Mercy have no meaning if there is no life after death.

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By World Assembly of Muslim Youth

-Islamophobia-

Islamophobia!

While each has its distinctive history; like Anti-Semitism and racism, Islamophobia is a real phenomenon that cultivates hate among communities, stereotypes a whole group for the acts of a few, and justifies transgression against the innocent. And like the rest, Islamophobia was developed and is fostered by special interest groups who often have access to power in order to reach a political, social, or an economic end.

With few exceptions, gone are the days when the perpetrators of hate would march with banners explicitly expressing their bigoted perceptions and attitudes. However, that is hardly an indication that the phenomenon has ceased to exist.

Today, hate speech and propaganda are often craftily camouflaged as talk radio punditry, political lampooning, speeches, or political infomercial.

Last year, in a bizarre outburst of bigotry that makes Islophobes such as David Horowitz, Daniel Pipes and Robert Spencer as objective intellectuals, radio talk show host Michael Savage of the Savage Nation had this ranting and raving to share with his audience: “I’m not gonna put my wife in a hijab. And I’m not gonna put my daughter in a burqa. And I’m not gettin on my all-fours and braying to Mecca. And you could drop dead if you don’t like it.”

Spewing his hate via over 1200 radio stations owned by a notoriously right-wing corporation Clear Channel, he continued his provocative diatribe: “You can shove it up your pipe. I don’t wanna hear anymore about Islam. I don’t wanna hear one more word about Islam. Take your religion and shove it up your behind. I’m sick of you.”

Along the same path, albeit more artistically, the July 2008 issue of the New Yorker Magazine had on its front page a political caricature of Barack and Michelle Obama. The couple is standing in the middle of the Oval Office. Obama is wearing a traditional Islamic dress with turban and sandals. He is approvingly fist-bumping with a militant looking Michelle as his sinister left eye gazes away. Michelle is wearing Angela Davis style afro and a guerilla fatigue with an M-16 hanging from her back. Looking over them is an Africa-American looking picture of Usama Bin Laden…hanging over the fire place where the American flag is set on flames.

Then came September 4, 2008– the Republican Convention –where the merchants of fear and paranoia found their ideal platform. Inadvertently or otherwise, the underlying theme seemed to be to broaden the definition of the enemy from a cult-like Al-Qaida to a much broader indeed more fluid definition that indicts all those who practice Islam as suspect or worse.

Rudolph Guiliani, the former New York City Mayor, condemned the democrats for being “politically correct” and avoiding the use of the term ‘Islamic terrorism’” to describe the enemy.

Taking the politically synthesized Anti-Islamic mantra to the next level by directly speaking to the race-conscious voters, former congressional leader Dick Army, who now leads one of the most powerful lobby groups in Washington, had this to say. Barack Obama’s “funny name” could “give people concerns that he could be or has been too much influenced by Muslims, which is a great threat now.” Obama is Christian.

It is a shame that the media is less interested in what Mr. Army and others who routinely use more provocative and broadly condemning terms such as “Islamo-fascism,” “Islamic terrorism,” and “Jihadism” to describe the enemy send to the 7 million Muslims in United States and 1.2 billion around the world.

During the recent elections, many localities around the U.S. were hit by a new “swift-boating” campaign. This one, targeting swing states, is aimed to induce paranoia by distributing “28 million DVDs” of the propaganda film Obsession: Radical Islam’s War Against the West.

The film, like any Goebbelian piece of propaganda, conveniently exploits the human tendency to surrender their capacity to think critically when their emotions are stirred or fear is instilled in their hearts. The film does this successfully as it is made of selective footages from various parts of the world of individuals expressing hate, training, and committing acts of terror and the bloody scenes of their crimes. It is a dangerously effective way of collectively demonizing Muslims as the so called experts featured in the film use all the aforementioned hot button terminologies to describe the terrorists and interlink all these cases with their subjective narrative.

This latest campaign is carried by an obscure New York based group named The Clarion Fund whose funders are not known.

In pursuit of their goal to effectively disseminate the DVDs and secure subliminal legitimacy, this group has selectively targeted the newspaper distribution apparatuses of various cities in critical states. Here in central Ohio, the Columbus Dispatch has distributed 10,000 copies of the DVDs through its most widely read issue- the Sunday Dispatch. The same was done by the New York Times, the Miami Herald and a host of other newspapers.

Venomous hyperbole aimed to stir fear and paranoia and indict all Muslims continues despite the Department of Homeland Security Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties’ conclusion that “Words matter” and its recommendation that U.S. officials and representatives should “…avoid inflating the religious bases and glamorous appeal of the extremists’ ideology.” According to a memo from the said department, the terminologies used should depict the terrorists as the dangerous cult leaders they are.

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-Abukar Arman is a freelance writer who lives in Ohio. He maintains his blog at FrogScorpia!

Modesty

Justice

Why Islam?

5 minutes Intro to Islam

The Oneness of God

The entire universe, in the way it is created and the way it is controlled, bears witness to the oneness of Allah:

“Surely, His is the creation and commandment. Blessed is Allah, the Lord of the ‘Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists)!’

[Chapter: al-A’raaf 7:54]

The creation of the heavens and the earth, the alternation of night and day, the different kinds of inanimate objects, plants and fruits, the creation of humans and animals… all of that indicates that the Almighty Creator is One with no partner or associate:

“That is Allah, your Lord, the Creator of all things,none has the right to be worshiped but He. How then are you turning away (from Allah, by worshiping others instead of Him)

[Chapter: al-Ghaafir 40:62]

The variety and greatness of these created things, the perfect way in which they are formed, the way in which they are maintained and controlled, all indicate that the Creator is One and that He does as He wills and rules and decides as He wants:

“Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Wakeel
Trustee, Disposer of affairs, Guardian over all things”

[Chapter: al-Zumar 39:62]

These great created things either created themselves – which is impossible – or man created himself then created them – which is also impossible:

“Were they created by nothing? Or were they themselves the creators? Or did they create the heavens and the earth? Nay, but they have no firm Belief.”

[Chapter: al-Toor 52:35-36]

Reason, revelation and the original state of man (fitrah) all indicate that this universe has One Who brought into being, that these created things have a Creator Who is Ever-Living and Eternal, All-Knowing and All-Aware, Powerful and Almighty, Kind and Most Merciful. He has the Most Beautiful Names and Sublime Attributes and He knows all things. Nothing is beyond His control, and there is nothing like unto Him:

“And your Ilaah (God) is One Ilaah (God), Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (there is none who has the right to be worshiped but He), the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.”

[al-Baqarah 2:163]

The existence of Allah is something that is there is no excuse for not knowing. It is the matter of common sense:

“Their Messengers said: What! Can there be a doubt about Allah, the Creator of the heavens and the earth?”

[Chapter: Ibrahim 14:10]

Allah has created people with the natural instinct (fitrah) to affirm His Lordship and Oneness, but the shayateen (devils) came to the sons of Adam and caused them to deviate from their religion.

According to a hadith: “I created all My slaves as haneefs (monotheists), but the shayaateen (devils) came to them and made them deviate from their religion, and they forbade them that which I had permitted to them.” (Narrated by Muslim, no. 2865)

Among them are those who deny the existence of Allah, and those who worship the Shaytan, and those who worship man. And there are those who worship the dinar [money], or fire, or genital organs, or animals. And there are some who associate in worship with Him a stone from the earth or a star in the sky.

These things which are worshipped instead of Allah, cannot create or provide; they cannot hear or see, or bring benefits or cause harm. So how can they worship them instead of Allah?

“Are many different lords (gods) better or Allah, the One, the Irresistible?”

[Chapter: Yusuf 12:39]

Allah has condemned those who worship these idols which cannot hear, see or think:

“Verily, those whom you call upon besides Allah are slaves like you. So call upon them and let them answer you if you are truthful.Have their feet wherewith they walk? Or have they hands wherewith they hold? Or have they eyes wherewith they see? Or have they ears wherewith they hear?”

[Chapter: al-A’raaf 7:194-195]

How ignorant man is of his Lord Who created him and provides for him. How he rejects Him and forgets Him, and worships others instead of Him:

“Verily, it is not the eyes that grow blind, but it is the hearts which are in the breasts that grow blind.”

[Chapter: al-Hajj 22:46]

Praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds:

Is not He Who created the heavens and the earth, and sends down for you water (rain) from the sky, whereby We cause to grow wonderful gardens full of beauty and delight? It is not in your ability to cause the growth of their trees. Is there any ilaah (god) with Allah? Nay, but they are a people who ascribe equals (to Him)!

Is not He Who has made the earth as a fixed abode, and has placed rivers in its midst, and has placed firm mountains therein, and has set a barrier between the two seas (of salt and sweet water)? Is there any ilaah (god) with Allah? Nay, but most of them know not!

Is not He Who responds to the distressed one, when he calls on Him, and Who removes the evil, and makes you inheritors of the earth, generations after generations? Is there any ilaah (god) with Allah? Little is that you remember!

Is not He Who guides you in the darkness of the land and the sea, and Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His Mercy (rain)? Is there any ilaah (god) with Allah? High Exalted be Allah above all that they associate as partners (to Him)!

Is not He Who originates creation, and shall thereafter repeat it, and Who provides for you from heaven and earth? Is there any ilaah (god) with Allah? Say: ‘Bring forth your proofs, if you are truthful.”

[Chapter: al-Naml 27:59-64]

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From Usool al-Deen al-Islami

Is Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) mentioned in the Bible?

Allah says in His Book -the Qur’an:

“And (remember) when ‘Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), said:

‘O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Allah unto you, confirming the Tawraat [(Torah) which came] before me, and giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad.’ But when he (Ahmad, i.e. Muhammad) came to them with clear proofs, they said: ‘This is plain magic’!

[Chapter: al-Saff 61:6]

This verse indicate that the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) is mentioned in the Torah and the Gospel (the Bible), no matter how much some claim that he is not; for the word of Allah is the best and most truthful of words.

Some of the things mentioned in the previous Books are as follows:

1 – In the Torah, in the Book of Deuteronomy 18:18-19 it says:

“I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him.If anyone does not listen to my words that the prophet speaks in my name, I myself will call him to account.”

-(New International Version)

This text is still extant among them. With regard to the phrase “from among their brothers” – if that prophet were to be from among the Children of Israel, it would have said, “I will raise up for them a prophet from among them.” But it says “from among their brothers” – i.e., from among the sons of Ismaa’eel (Ishamel).

2- It says in the Gospel of John 16:6-8, 12-13:

“It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor [Paraclete] will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin…I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.”

3- Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:
It says in the Torah, in the fifth book [Deuteronomy 33:2]:

“The LORD came from Sinai and dawned over them from Seir; he shone forth from Mount Paran. He came with myriads of holy ones from the south, from his mountain slopes [or: from his right hand went a fiery law for them].”

(New International Version; alternative version of last phrase – the meaning of which is unclear in the original Hebrew texts – is from the King James Version)

This refers to the three Prophethoods: the Prophethood of Moosa (Moses), the Prophethood of ‘Eesa (Jesus) and the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). “Coming from Sinai” refers to the mountain where Allah spoke to Moosa and called him and told him he was a Prophet. “Dawning over them from Seir” refers to the appearance of the Messiah from Bayt al-Maqdis (Jerusalem). “Paran” refers to Makkah.

These three Prophets who were mentioned in this foretelling were also mentioned in the beginning of Chapter: al-Teen of the Qur’an: (interpretation of the meaning):

1. “By the fig, and the olive.”

2. “By Mount Sinai.”

3. “By this city of security (Makkah)”

[al-Teen 95:1-3]

4- In the 22^nd chapter of the Gospel of Barnabas it is mentionned:

“And this will continue until there comes Muhammad the Messenger of God who, when he comes, will expose this deceit to those who believe in the laws of God.”

And it says in the Book of Isaiah:

“I have made your name Muhammad O Muhammad, O beloved of the Lord, your name will abide forever.”

&

“What I have given to him I will not give to anyone else: Ahmad, because he praises God and this praise comes from the best part of the earth, and this will bring joy to mankind and they will recite the word of divine unity on every hill and glorify God in every high place.”

Many scholars have mentioned the places in the Bible where the name of the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) is mentioned. Sometimes his name is mentioned clearly, and sometimes he is described in ways that can only apply to him. One should note that the books of the Bible as they exist today have been altered and changed. This fact has been stated by non-Muslim historians, but despite all that we still find in the Bible the foretelling of the coming of the Messenger of Allah (p.b.u.h.). One will find that some of the ancient scholars quote passages from the Bible that no longer exist. But there are still other passages that foretell the Prophethood of the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) and his coming.

Colonel Donald S. Rockwell embraces Islam

‘The simplicity of Islam, the powerful appeal and the compelling atmosphere of its mosques, the earnestness of its faithful adherents, the confidence inspiring realization of the millions throughout the world who answer the five daily calls to prayer — these factors attracted me from the first. But after I had determined to become a follower of Islam, I found many deeper reasons for confirming my decision. The mellow concept of life — fruit of the Prophet’s combined course of action and contemplation — the wise counsel, the admonitions to charity and mercy, the broad humanitarianism, the pioneer declaration of woman’s property rights – these and other factors of the teachings of the man of Mecca were to me among the most obvious evidence of a practical religion so tersly and so aptly epitomized in the cryptic words of Muhammad, “Trust in God and tie your camel”. He gave us a religious system of normal action, not blind faith in the protection of an unseen force in spite of our own neglect, but confidence that if we do all things rightly and to the best of our ability, we may trust in what comes as the Will of God.

The broadminded tolerance of Islam for other religions recommends it to all lovers of liberty. Muhammad admonished his followers to treat well the believers in the Old and New Testaments; and Abraham, Moses and Jesus are acknowledged as co-prophets of the One God. Surely this is generous and far in advance of the attitude of other religions.

The total freedom from idolatry … is a sign of the salubrious strength and purity of the Muslim faith.

The original teachings of the Prophet of God have not been engulfed in the maze of changes and additions of doctrinarians. The Quran remains as it came to the corrupt polytheistic people of Muhammad’s time, changeless as the holy heart of Islam itself.

Moderation and temperance in all things, the keynotes of Islam, won my unqualified approbation. The health of his people was cherished by the Prophet, who enjoined them to observe strict cleanliness and specified fasts and to subordinate carnal appetites … when I stood in the inspiring mosques of Istanbul, Damascus, Jerusalem, Cairo, Algiers, Tangier, Fez and other cities, I was conscious of a powerful reaction [to] the potent uplift of Islam’s simple appeal to the sense of higher things, unaided by elaborate trappings, ornamentations, figures, pictures, music and ceremonial ritual. The mosque is a place of quiet contemplation and self-effacement in the greater reality of the One God.

The democracy of Islam has always appealed to me. Potentate and pauper have the same rights on the floor of the mosque, on their knees in humble worship. There are no rented pews nor special reserved seats.

The Muslim accepts no man as a mediator between himself and his God. He goes direct to the invisible source of creation and life, God, without reliance on saving formula of repentance of sins and belief in the power of a teacher to afford him salvation.

The universal brotherhood of Islam, regardless of race, politics, colour or country, has been brought home to me most keenly many times in my life and this is another feature which drew me towards the Faith.”

Did Jesus (a.s) get Crucified?

Muslims believe that Jesus (p.b.u.h)* according to the Holy Qur’an is a messenger of God who came down and revealed God’s words to his people, the people of Israel. Muslims do not believe that Jesus is God, nor do they believe that God ever chose to come down to earth in a form of a man to die for our sins to purify us and forgive us.

According to Islam, Jesus (p.b.u.h.) never died on the cross, nor did he ever want to die on the cross, nor was he ever born to die on the cross. Muslims believe that Jesus was sentenced to death, and people thought that he got executed on the cross. The Holy Qur’an rejects this idea, and claims that it is a false one. Jesus (p.b.u.h.) never died on the cross, nor he ever died for anyone’s sins. Let us look at what the Qur’an says about this issue:

“That they rejected Faith; That they uttered against Mary A grave false charge; That they said (in boast): ‘We killed Christ Jesus The son of Mary, The Messenger of Allah.’ But they killed him not, Nor crucified him, but so it was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts, with no (certain) knowledge, but only conjecture to follow, for of a surety they killed him not. Nay, Allah raised him up Unto Himself; and Allah Is Exalted in Power, Wise. And there is none of the people of the book (Jews and Christians) But must believe in him (Jesus) Before his death; And on the Day of Judgment He (Jesus) will be a witness Against them.”
(Qur’an, 4:156)

The truth of the matter is this – Judas betrayed Jesus. He was a traitor to Jesus (p.b.u.h.), and he was a traitor to Allah. Even though Judas knew full well that Jesus (p.b.u.h.) was a prophet of God, still, he conspired to kill him. Allah punishes severely those that betray him. Allah punished him by making him look like Jesus. The Romans and Jews, who had long since been conspiring to kill Jesus, killed Judas, who looked like Jesus.

This theory is supported by parts of the Bible itself. In the Bible, Jesus (p.b.u.h.) says “God, why have you forsaken me?” Jesus (p.b.u.h.) would never have said this if he was the son of God coming down to die for everybody’s sin, as Christians believe. No, it was Judas who asked this question. Also, in the Bible the person on the cross called Mary “Women!” when he sees her. Obviously, this was not Jesus (p.b.u.h.), because Jesus (p.b.u.h.) would have called her “mother”. No, instead, this person was Judas. This is written in much more clear detail in the Gospel of Barnabas.

Jesus was never put up on the cross, and he never died. And exactly as it states in the Qur’an, it was made to appear so. According to the Qur’an, Jesus (p.b.u.h.) was not put on the cross. It says “but they killed him not, nor crucified him”.

When Abraham was told by God to sacrifice his son, his son did not object or question him, if Jesus (p.b.u.h.) was sent to be sacrificed for our sins, why would he question God?

(Matthew 27:46): “… My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”

Could this not come from someone other than Jesus (p.b.u.h.)? Even a Non Prophet would smile at agony as he knew that his death would win him the title of a martyr. Was this not an insult to Jesus (p.b.u.h.) in not having faith in Allah?”

…this clearly and indisputably confirms that Jesus never got crucified!

The Holy Qur’an

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Video: Qur’an Recitation in Prayer

The Qur’an is the central religious text of Islam. It is the final revelation of Allah and before it came; the Suhuf-i-Ibrahim (Scrolls of Abraham), the Tawrat (Torah), the Zabur (Psalms), and the Injeel (Gospel). The Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) by the angel Jibraeel (Gabriel) over a period of 23 years.

The Qur’an consists of 114 chapters of varying lengths, each known as a “surah”. Chapters are classed as Meccan or Medinan, depending on where the verses were revealed. Each “surah” (chapter) is formed from several “ayat” (verses).

The Qur’an is a book of divine guidance and direction for mankind and the text in its original Arabic is the literal word of God.

One meaning of Qur’an is “recitation”, the Qur’an itself outlines the general method of how it is to be recited: slowly and in rhythmic tones. Tajwid is the term for techniques of recitation.

Women opressed in Islam?!

Let’s examine why someone would think that. Most likely it is because of the Muslim Women’s head covering. So, that thinking tells us that the more clothes a woman takes off, the more liberated she is. Therefore, according to this belief, the most liberated women o­n planet earth are pornography models.

To a Muslim woman liberation is to be respected, not molested. A Muslim woman’s beauty is seen by her female friends, her children, her near relatives, and her husband. The o­nly people that don’t see her beauty are strange men, who might try and take advantage of her.The covering of Muslim women has become o­ne of the international symbols of female oppression in feminist circles.

There are two major trends which have developed in the West over the past century.On o­ne hand, the fashion industry has systematically unclothed women. From being fully clothed from head to toe at the turn of the century, they now wears virtually nothing when the weather permits.On the other hand, there has been a dramatic rise in the reported incidents of rape. In North America, in the early 90s the reported incidents of rape had crossed the 100,000 mark. And researchers estimated that the actual number was between 7 to 10 times that number since most women are shy to report rapes. The two trends are closely interrelated.

The woman in the West has become a sex-object with which to sell products thereby pumping up the sexual tension of the society. The Corvette is not sold based o­n its powerful engine or its special features, instead the car is displayed with a model in a bikini lying o­n it. Similarly, a new Gillette razor blade is not sold by giving details about its new titanium blades. Instead, a man is shown in ads shaving with a woman’s hand with long red fingernails coiled around holding his. The subliminal message being taught is: You buy the car, you get the girl. You buy the razor, you get the girl.

Islam prescribes the covering of females for two primary reasons stated in the Qur’an. God says in Chapter “al-Ahzaab” (33:59) :

“Let them cast their outer garments over their bodies. That is best in order that they be known and not harmed.”

The hijab also is to make the Muslim woman known in the society as a virtuous and honorable woman. Her hijab makes the statement that she is not available and not interested in any advances. Many Muslim women who have emigrated to the West take of their scarves and outer garments because they claim it draws attention to themselves. If they expose their hair and dress in modest western dresses no o­ne will look at them.

It is true that the hijab does provide a level of anonymity, as many of the woman’s physical details will be hidden. However, the intent is not to prevent men from looking. When men see a nun in her habit, fully covered like a Muslim woman in full hijab, they will turn their heads and stare at her. Similarly, when they see a woman walking in a bikini, they will also turn their heads and stare. However, the first stare is different from the second. The first is out of curiosity, having seen something unusual, while the second is out of lust and aroused sensuality. The consequence of those 2 looks are quiet different.

The penalty in a country such as Saudi Arabia  is very severe for rape in order to further guarantee protection for females. Where weapons of any type are used in the rape, the punishment is death. The death penalty has also been introduced in Philippines and it is being called for in India currently. However, to allow women to expose themselves and then kill those who react unduly is not practical. The law should be balanced. The circumstances, which might encourage rape, should first be removed from the society, then a severe penalty may be enacted.

It may be said that even in societies where women are fully covered, they may still be approached and molested. However, if the vast majority of those who are molested are not properly covered, the principle of protection still applies. Even in the society of the Prophet (p.b.u.h.), 1400 years ago, some women were molested and raped.

The West has set its own limits for dress which change according to the mood of society. At o­ne point in time, strip joints were illegal. Now many bars have topless waitresses and dancers. In most states, a woman may not appear in public topless. However, a woman recently contested the law in Florida and won her case. Complete nudity remains public crime throughout the West, though nudist camps and nudist beaches have sprung up in different locations in Europe and North America.

Allah: The One & Only God

It is a known fact that every religion has one or more terms that are used in reference to God. This is not the case in Islam. Allah is the personal name of the One true God. Nothing else can be called Allah. The term has no plural or gender. This shows its uniqueness when compared with the word god which can be made plural: gods, or feminine: goddess. It is interesting to notice that Allah is the personal name of God in Aramaic, the language of Jesus (p.b.u.h.)* and a sister language of Arabic.

The One true God is a reflection of the unique concept that Islam associates with God. To a Muslim, Allah is the Almighty, Creator and Sustainer of the universe, Who is similar to nothing and nothing is comparable to Him. The Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) was asked by his companions about Allah; the answer, which was revealed by God through the Angel Gabriel to Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) is found in Chapter 112 which reads:

“In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate.
Say (O Muhammad) He is God the One God, the Everlasting Refuge, who has not begotten, nor has been begotten, and equal to Him is not anyone.”

Stereotypes allege that God in Islam is a stern and cruel God who demands to be obeyed fully. He is not loving and kind. Nothing can be farther from truth than this allegation. It is enough to know that, each of the 114 chapters of the Qur’an begins with the verse: “In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate.” In one of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) we are told that “God is more loving and kinder than a mother to her dear child.”

But God is also Just. Hence evildoers and sinners must have their share of punishment and the virtuous, His bounties and favors. Actually God’s attribute of Mercy has full manifestation in His attribute of Justice. People suffering throughout their lives for His sake and people oppressing and exploiting other people all their lives should not receive similar treatment from their Lord. Expecting similar treatment for them will amount to negating the very belief in the accountability of man in the Hereafter and thereby negating all the incentives for a moral and virtuous life in this world. The following Quranic verse is very clear and straightforward in this respect:

“Verily, for the Righteous are gardens of Delight, in the Presence of their Lord. Shall We then treat the people of Faith like the people of Sin? What is the matter with you? How judge you?” (68:34-36)

http://zaitundawah.org/GodInIslam.aspx
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*(p.b.u.h.): peace be upon him

Muhammad the last prophet (p.b.u.h.)

All Must Know This Man!

You may be an atheist or an agnostic; or you may belong to any of the religious denominations that exist in the world today. You may be a communist or a believer in democracy and freedom. No matter what you are, and no matter what your ideological and political beliefs, personal and social habits happen to be – you must still know this man!

Muhammad (s.a.w.) said:

“By Him (God) in Whose Hand is the life of Muhammad, he amongst the community of Jews or Christians who hears about me; but does not affirm his belief in that with which I have been sent (Islam) and dies in his state (of disbelief), he shall be but one of the denizens of Hell-Fire.”

It was in the year 570, after Jesus (p.b.u.h.)*, that Muhammad (p.b.u.h)* was born in Makkah, in what is now Saudi Arabia. Arabia, by all accounts, is the cradle of the human race. All the oldest human remains so far found come from that area.

Hemmed in by red, black and brown volcanic hills about 80 kilometers to the east of the Red Sea, stands the city of Makkah. It was then a small merchant town on the ancient ‘incense’ route through which passed the great trade caravans between south and north.

However, Makkah was, and remains, important for an altogether different reason. For here lies the Ka‘bah, the first House’ ever set up for mankind to worship their only God. More than 1,000 years before the Prophet Solomon built the temple in Jerusalem, his ancestor, the Prophet Abraham, aided by his elder son the Prophet Ishmael, raised its walls on very ancient foundations.

Close by the Ka‘bah lies the well called Zam Zam. Its origin, too, goes back to the Prophet Abraham’s time. It was this well which sprang up miraculously to save the life of the infant Ishmael.

In the words of the Bible:

“And God heard the voice of the boy; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said to her: ‘What ails you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is. Arise, lift up the boy, and hold him in your hand; for I will make him a great nation. And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the boy a drink. And God was with the boy; and he grew and dwelt in the wilderness, and became an archer.” (Genesis 21: 17-20)

Makkah never had, nor does it have now any worldly inducement to offer for settlement. It is a barren, desolate place, where even grass does not grow! There were springs and wells of abundant water nearby in Taif and a short distance away in Madinah. But it was the first House of God, architecturally an unremarkable cube, but spiritually and civilizationally the most remarkable fountain and spring of life – which made it supremely important, a place of attraction for people from all over the world. Forever, therefore, Makkah has been a great centre of pilgrimage.

By the time Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) was born, the Ka’bah’s latest guardians, the tribe of Quraysh, had more than 300 idols installed in and around the Ka’bah to be worshipped as lords, gods and intercessors besides the One God. Muhammad was a direct descendant of the Prophet Abraham through the Prophet Ishmael. He belonged to the financially poor but politically strong and noble clan of Banu Hashim from the tribe of Quraysh. As guardians of the Ka‘bah, the House of God and the centre of pilgrimage for all Arabia, the Quraysh ranked higher in dignity and power than any other tribe. Hashim held the high office of levying taxes and providing the pilgrims with food and water.

Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) was born an orphan. His father, Abdullah, died before he was born. His mother, Aminah, too, passed away when he was only six years old. Doubly an orphan, his grandfather, Abd al-Muttalib, took him into his care. Only two years later, however, the orphaned boy was bereaved of his grandfather as well, leaving him in the care of his uncle, Abu Talib.

After his birth, the infant child was sent to the desert to be suckled and weaned and to spend part of his childhood among one of the Bedouin tribes, Bani Sa‘d ibn Bakr, who live in the southeast of Makkah. This was the usual custom of all the great families in Makkah.

As Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) grew up, to earn his livelihood he pastured sheep and goats, as have done most prophets. His uncle and guardian, Abu Talib, also took him along with him on his travels with the trade caravans to greater Syria. He, thus, gained experience in trading. Because of his great honesty and diligence and the business acumen he showed in trading, he was soon being sought after to take charge of other people’s merchandise, i.e. for those who could not travel themselves, and to trade on their behalf.

At the age of 25, Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) married a lady named Khadija. A widow, Khadijah was 15 years older than Muhammad (p.b.u.h.). She was a rich merchant of Makkah, and Muhammad had managed some of her trade affairs. It was she who proposed marriage. Khadija remained his wife and closest friend and companion all her life till her death 25 years later. She bore him six children, of whom four daughters survived.

Until he was 40, Muhammad led a very uneventful life, showing no signs of the Prophet in the making that he was suddenly to be. What set him apart from his compatriots was his absolute truthfulness, trustworthiness and integrity, his sense of justice and compassion for the poor, oppressed and downtrodden, as well as his total refusal to worship any idol or do anything immoral. He was popularly acclaimed for these qualities. Al-Amin, the Trustworthy, the Honest, al-Sadiq, the Truthful, were the titles on everybody’s lips for Muhammad, which itself means the Praised One.

At a very young age, Muhammad enthusiastically joined a pact of chivalry for the establishment of justice and the protection of the weak and the oppressed made by certain chiefs of the Quraysh. He took part in the Oath when they all vowed ‘that henceforth they would stand together as one man on the side of the oppressed against the oppressor until justice was done, whether the oppressed were a man of the Quraysh or one who had come from abroad.’

A testimony to Muhammad’s character was given by his wife Khadija as she comforted him at the time when the first Revelation came to him. He said later: ‘I fear for my life. ‘She replied: ‘By no means! I swear by God that God will never lose you. You join ties of relationship, you speak the truth, you bear people’s burdens, you earn for the poor, you entertain guests, and you help against the vicissitudes which affect people’s rights.’

Muhammad’s wisdom was also acknowledged by all. Once, while repairing the Ka‘bah, various clans of the Quraysh disputed violently as to who should have the honour of placing the Black Stone in its place. As they were about to unsheathe their swords and go to war, they made the Prophet (p.b.u.h.) their arbitrator and he brought them peace. He placed the Black Stone on his cloak and asked all the clan chiefs to hold its edges and raise it, and then he placed the Black Stone in its appointed spot with his own hands.

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*(p.b.u.h.): peace be upon him

(“Muhammad” written in Arabic)

How To Wear Hijab

Basic Hijab (Shayla):

In the 1st picture -
the basic ’shayla’ wrap, with and without an undercap.

2 Piece Hijab:

In the 2nd and 3rd pictures-
We see how to wrap two hijabs together.
I would personally pull the first one down more over
the ears to make sure they are properly covered.
It’s also best to use a thin material,
otherwise they will be difficult to wrap.

-(Jana)

3 Misconceptions about Hijab

Hijab is a symbol of ‘male dominance’
If you think Hijab is an act of submission, you are right! It is a way to submit to God. Like any other act of worship, the rewards of Hijab come only when it is done for Allah alone.

Hijab is a ‘cultural thing’
From remote villages to cosmopolitan mega cities, women all across the world, from every ethnic background, wear Hijab. Do all of these women cling to old cultural practices? Hijab, the internal and external aspects, take understanding, training and determination. Since the purpose of Hijab is to please Allah, doing it for tradition is wrong.

Hijab is a ‘challenge to the political system’
While Hijab may have political implications, as evident in the banning of Hijab in certain countries, Muslim women who choose to practice Hijab are not doing it to challenge the political system. Islam encourages men and women to observe modesty in private and public life. Hijab is an individual’s act of faith and religious expression.

Advantages of Hijab

I am liberated from slavery to ‘physical perfection’

Society makes women desire to become ‘perfect objects’. The multitudes of alluring fashion magazines and cosmetic surgeries show women’s enslavement to beauty. The entertainment industry pressures teens to believe that for clothes, less is better. When we wear Hijab, we vow to liberate ourselves from such desires and serve only God.

I don’t let others judge me by my hair and curves!

In schools and professional environments, women are often judged by their looks or bodies—characteristics they neither chose nor created. Hijab forces society to judge women for their value as human beings, with intellect, principles, and feelings. A woman in Hijab sends a message, “Deal with my brain, not my body!”

I feel empowered and confident

In contrast to today’s teenage culture, where anorexia and suicide are on the rise, as women attempt to reach an unattainable ideal of beauty, Hijab frees a woman from the pressure to ‘fit in’. She does not have to worry about wearing the right kind of jeans or the right shade of eyeshadow. She can feel secure about her appearance because she cares to please only Allah.

I feel the bond of unity

Hijab identifies us as Muslims and encourages other Muslim sisters to greet us with the salutation of peace, “Assalamu Alaikum”. Hijab draws others to us and immerses us in good company.

Hijab

In some Arabic-speaking countries and Western countries, the word hijab primarily refers to women’s head and body covering, but in Islamic scholarship, hijab is given the wider meaning of modesty, privacy, and morality. The word used in the Qur’an for a headscarf or veil is khimār.

‘Those who harass believing men and believing women undeservedly, bear (on themselves)
a calumny and a grievous sin. O Prophet! Enjoin your wives, your daughters, and the wives of true believers that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad) That is most convenient, that they may be distinguished and not be harassed. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.’
(Qur’an 33:58-59)

Proper Hijab means loose and opaque clothes. Clothes should not be alluring or similar to the clothing of men. What about guys? Islam outlines a modest dress code for men and women. The requirements are different based on the obvious physiological and psychological differences between the two genders.

Hijab does not apply only to clothes. It is a state of mind, behaviour, and lifestyle. Hijab celebrates a desirable quality called Haya (modesty), a deep concern for preserving one’s dignity. Haya is a natural feeling that brings us pain at the very idea of committing a wrong.

The Prophet (s.a.w.) said:
“Every religion has a distinct call. For Islam it is Haya (modesty).”

Preservation & Authencity of Qur’an

Question:

There were many versions of the Qur’an all of which were burnt by Usman (r.a.) except for one. Therefore is it not true that the present Qur’an is the one compiled by Usman (r.a.) and not the original revelation of God?

Answer:

One of the most common myths about the Qur’an, is that Usman (r.a.), the third Caliph of Islam authenticated and compiled one Qur’an, from a large set of mutually contradicting copies. The Qur’an, revered as the Word of Allah  by Muslims the world over, is the same Qur’an as the one revealed to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). It was authenticated and written under his personal supervision. We will examine the roots of the myth which say that Usman (r.a.) had the Qur’an authenticated.

1. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) himself supervised and authenticated the written texts of the Qur’an

Whenever the Prophet received a revelation, he would first memorize it himself and later declare the revelation and instruct his Companions (r.a.) – May Allah be pleased with him who would also memorize it. The Prophet would immediately ask the scribes to write down the revelation he had received, and he would reconfirm and recheck it himself. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was an Ummi who could not read and write. Therefore, after receiving each revelation, he would repeat it to his Companions. They would write down the revelation, and he would recheck by asking them to read what they had written. If there was any mistake, the Prophet would immediately point it out and have it corrected and rechecked. Similarly he would even recheck and authenticate the portions of the Qur’an memorized by the Companions. In this way, the complete Qur’an was written down under the personal supervision of the prophet (pbuh).

2. Order and sequence of Qur’an divinely inspired

The complete Qur’an was revealed over a period of 22½ years portion by portion, as and when it was required. The Qur’an was not compiled by the Prophet in the chronological order of revelation. The order and sequence of the Qur’an too was Divinely inspired and was instructed to the Prophet by Allah (swt) through archangel Jibraeel. Whenever a revelation was conveyed to his companions, the Prophet would also mention in which surah (chapter) and after which ayat (verse) this new revelation should fit.

Every Ramadhaan all the portions of the Qur’an that had been revealed, including the order of the verses, were revised and reconfirmed by the Prophet with archangel Jibraeel. During the last Ramadhaan, before the demise of the Prophet, the Qur’an was rechecked and reconfirmed twice.

It is therefore clearly evident that the Qur’an was compiled and authenticated by the Prophet himself during his lifetime, both in the written form as well as in the memory of several of his Companions.

3. Qur’an copied on one common material

The complete Qur’an, along with the correct sequence of the verses, was present during the time of the Prophet (pbuh). The verses however, were written on separate pieces, scrapes of leather, thin flat stones, leaflets, palm branches, shoulder blades, etc. After the demise of the prophet, Abu Bakr (r.a.), the first caliph of Islam ordered that the Qur’an be copied from the various different materials on to a common material and place, which was in the shape of sheets. These were tied with strings so that nothing of the compilation was lost.

4. Usman (r.a.) made copies of the Qur’an from the original manuscript

Many Companions of the Prophet used to write down the revelation of the Qur’an on their own whenever they heard it from the lips of the Prophet. However what they wrote was not personally verified by the Prophet and thus could contain mistakes. All the verses revealed to the Prophet may not have been heard personally by all the Companions. There were high possibilities of different portions of the Qur’an being missed by different Companions. This gave rise to disputes among Muslims regarding the different contents of the Qur’an during the period of the third Caliph Usman (r.a.).

Usman (r.a.) borrowed the original manuscript of the Qur’an, which was authorized by the beloved Prophet (pbuh), from Hafsha (may Allah be pleased with her), the Prophet’s wife. Usman (r.a.) ordered four Companions who were among the scribes who wrote the Qur’an when the Prophet dictated it, led by Zaid bin Thabit (r.a.) to rewrite the script in several perfect copies. These were sent by Usman (r.a.) to the main centres of Muslims.

There were other personal collections of the portions of the Qur’an that people had with them. These might have been incomplete and with mistakes. Usman (r.a.) only appealed to the people to destroy all these copies which did not match the original manuscript of the Qur’an in order to preserve the original text of the Qur’an. Two such copies of the copied text of the original Qur’an authenticated by the Prophet are present to this day, one at the museum in Tashkent in erstwhile Soviet Union and the other at the Topkapi Museum in Istanbul, Turkey.

5. Diacritical marks were added for non-Arabs

The original manuscript of the Qur’an does not have the signs indicating the vowels in Arabic script. These vowels are known as tashkil, zabar, zair, paish in Urdu and as fatah, damma and qasra in Arabic. The Arabs did not require the vowel signs and diacritical marks for correct pronunciation of the Qur’an since it was their mother tongue. For Muslims of non-Arab origin, however, it was difficult to recite the Qur’an correctly without the vowels. These marks were introduced into the Quranic script during the time of the fifth ‘Umayyad’ Caliph, Malik-ar-Marwan (66-86 Hijri/685-705 C.E.) and during the governorship of Al-Hajaj in Iraq.

Some people argue that the present copy of the Qur’an that we have along with the vowels and the diacritical marks is not the same original Qur’an that was present at the Prophet’s time. But they fail to realize that the word ‘Qur’an’ means a recitation. Therefore, the preservation of the recitation of the Qur’an is important, irrespective of whether the script is different or whether it contains vowels. If the pronunciation and the Arabic is the same, naturally, the meaning remains the same too.

6. Allah Himself has promised to guard the Qur’an

Allah has promised in the Qur’an :

“We have, without doubt, sent down the Message; and We will assuredly Guard it (from corruption). [Al-Qur’an 15:9]

Da’wah

Da’wah is an Arabic term meaning “invite” or “invitation”. Muslim who practices dawah, either as a religious worker or in a volunteer community effort, is called a Da’ee or Da`i. A da’i is thus a person who invites people to understand Islam.

An important matter for Muslims to realize is that da`wah is
an obligation upon them.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) carried out this duty throughout his life. It was then taken up by their Companions and those who followed after them. The Muslims have been carrying this duty out ever since.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“Invite to the Way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His Path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided.”
(Qur’an, 16:25)

“Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining al-ma`roof (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do) and forbidding al-Munkar (polytheism and disbelief and all that Islam has forbidden). And it is they who are successful.”
[Qur'an, 3:104]

The propagation of Islam was the mission of all the prophets and messengers of Allah (Muhammad, Jesus, Moses e.t.c., peace be upon them all) . There was never a prophet who was not a preacher and teacher. All of them preached the same message: ‘Worship Allah, you have no other god but Him.’ They all called to their people saying: ‘I do not seek any reward from you for this work.’

May Allah give us all guidance, and protect us from misguidance, and treat us with His grace and mercy, surely He is the Most Worthy of taqwa and forgiveness.

1.Shahadah (Profession Of Faith)

The Shahada is the Muslim declaration of belief in the Oneness of God and acceptance of Muhammad as the final Prophet. There are seven critical conditions of the Shahadah, without which it is considered to be meaningless: Al-’Ilm: Knowledge of the meaning of teh Shahadah: it’s negation and affirmation. Al-Yakeen: Certainty – perfect knowledge of it that counteracts suspicion and doubt. Al-Ikhlaas: Sincerity which negates Shirk. Al-Sidq: Truthfulness that permits neither falsehood nor hypocrisy. Al-Muhabbah: Love of the Shahadah and it’s meaning. Al-Inqiad: Submission to it’s rightful requirements, which are the duties that must be performed with sinceruty to God (alone) seeking His pleasure. Al-Qubool: Acceptance thats contradicts rejection. The Shahadah: أشهد أن لا إله إلاَّ الله و أشهد أن محمد رسول الله ‘ashhadu ‘an la ilaaha illa-llah, wa ‘ashadu ‘anna muhammadan’ rasulu-llah’ English translation of the Shahadah: “I testify that there is no God worthy of worship but Allah, and I testify that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”

2.Salat (Prayer)

The second pillar of Islam is Salaat. Muslims all over the world pray 5x a day. The time of day to pray are at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and night fall. Each Salat is performed facing while facing the Kaaba. Salat is compulsory but some flexibility in the specifics is allowed depending on the circumstances. For example, in the case of sickness or a lack of space, a worshipper can offer salat while sitting, or even lying down, and the prayer is shortened when travelling. The Salat must be performed in the Arabic language to the best of each worshipper’s ability. All prayers should be conducted within the prescribed time period and with appropriate number of units (raka’ah). As stated in the Qur’an Salat “restrains [one] from shameful and evil deeds”. So in a nutshell our Salaat is a means to which Muslims regularly purify the body and soul of arrogance, hypocrisy and shirk (associating others in worship with God) each day. In the Qur’an it says of the Salaat: “And establish regular prayers at the two ends of the day and at the approaches of the night: for those things that are good remove those that are evil: be that the word of remembrance to those who remember (their Lord).” (Qur’an, 3:114)

3.Zakat (Alms)

Zakat is the practice of charitable giving by Muslims based on accumulated wealth, and is obligatory for all who are able to do so. It is considered to be a personal responsibility for Muslims to ease economic hardship for others and eliminate inequality. Zakat consists of spending a fixed portion of one’s wealth for the benefit of the needy. Prophet Moses (a.s) prayed for his people : “O God ! Bestow upon us the well-being of this world as also the well-being of the Hereafter.” Allah (s.w.t) said in reply: “I shall smite with my punishment whom I will. Although My mercy embraceth all things, but I shall ordain it for those who will fear Me and give Zakat and those who will believe in Our revelations.” (Qur’an 7:156)

4.Sawm (fasting)

Sawm means to refrain from eating, drinking and cohabiting from subha sadiq (early dawn to sunset) with a niyyah (intention) of observing fast. Allah prescribes daily fasting for all able, adult Muslims during the whole of the month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the lunar calendar, beginning with the sighting of the new moon. Although fasting is beneficial to the health, it is regarded principally as a method of self-purification. By cutting oneself off from worldly pleasures and comforts, even for a short time, the fasting person gains true sympathy for those who go hungry regularly, and achieves growth in his spiritual life, learning discipline, self-restraint, patience and flexibility. It is preferable to recite this Du’a at the time of keeping the fast : “Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri ramadan. And this Du’a when breaking the fast: “Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu [wa 'alayka tawakkaltu] wa ‘ala rizq-ika aftarthu.”

5.Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)

One fifth of humankind shares a single aspiration: to complete, at least once in a lifetime, the spiritual journey called the Hajj. It is the largest annual pilgrimage in the world. It is the fifth pillar of Islam, an obligation that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by every able-bodied Muslim who can afford to do so. It is a demonstration of the solidarity of the Muslim people, and their submission to Allah. When pilgrims undertake the Hajj journey, they follow in the footsteps of millions before them. Nowadays hundreds of thousands of believers from over 70 nations arrive in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by road, sea and air every year, completing a journey now much shorter and in some ways less arduous than it often was in the past. The pilgrimage takes place each year between the 8th and the 13th days of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Muslim lunar calendar. “There is no reward for a pious pilgrimage but Paradise.” (Muhammad -s.a.w.-) ”They asked me what about the Hajj had impressed me the most. . . . I said, “The brotherhood! The people of all races, color, from all over the world coming to gether as one! It has proved to me the power of the One God. . . . All ate as one, and slept as one. Everything about the pilgrimage atmosphere accented the Oneness of Man under One God.” -Malcolm X He returned from the pilgrimage as El-Hajj Malik al-Shabazz.