Immanent Peace

JANGAN HINA AGAMA LAIN

2009-12-18T17:45:00.000-08:00

Dengan nama Allah yang Maha Pemurah lagi Maha Pengasih.

Saya memulakan tulisan ini dengan harapan Allah akan membuka pintu hati kita untuk terus meluruskan salah faham antara kita semua. Tulisan ini bukan untuk menuding jari menyalahkan pihak-pihak tertentu ekoran daripada kejadian perarakan membawa kepala lembu bagi membantah pembinaan kuil di Seksyen 23 Shah Alam. Tetapi atas dasar memberikan pandangan moga kejadian yang sama tidak diulangi oleh pihak-pihak lain kerana ia mencemarkan keindahan Islam yang membenarkan toleransi kepada penganut agama lain selagi mereka tidak memerangi Islam.

Malaysia terkenal dengan penduduknya yang berbilang kaum, adat dan budaya tetapi masih boleh hidup harmoni di antara satu sama lain. Pelbagai cara yang telah dijalankan oleh kerajaan bagi merapatkan jurang antara kaum dan terbaru perdana menteri, Dato’ Najib bin Tunku Abdul Razak memperkenalkan konsep 1 MALAYSIA sempena kemerdekaan Negara yang ke-52 dengan harapan kita dapat bersatu padu dan hidup dengan harmoni tanpa menyakiti hati mana-mana kaum dan menunaikan hak antara satu sama lain.

Kejadian perarakan kepala lembu yang berlaku ekoran membantah pembinaan kuil mengundang reaksi pelbagai pihak tambahan ia berlaku pada bulan ramadhan yang penuh berkat ini. Seharusnya kita bertindak secara rasional bukan dengan emosi sehingga akhirnya mencetuskan perselisihan faham sesama Islam dan juga salah faham di kalangan yang bukan Islam.Usaha untuk menyatukan dan merealisasikan konsep 1 MALAYSIA nampaknya telah tercemar dengan kejadian ini. Islam mengajar kita bertoleransi dengan penganut agama lain dan menunaikan hak mereka. Sebagai tuntutan kepada kebebasan akidah, orang bukan Islam dibenarkan membina rumah-rumah ibadat mereka.

Islam melarang sama sekali kita menghina agama lain walaupun dalam kejadian ini ada yang mendakwa simbol lembu di sini menunjukkan kebodohan dan kedegilan kerajaan Selangor, tapi seharusnya mereka juga berfikir dan mengambil kira sensitiviti penganut Hindu memandangkan isu ini melibatkan tembat peribadatan mereka dan lembu adalah suci di sisi agama mereka.

Dimanakah akhlak kita sebagai orang Islam kepada bukan Islam? Bagaimana orang bukan Islam hendak melihat keindahan Islam sekiranya beginilah sikap kita dalam mengatasi isu yang melibatkan penganut agama lain? Jika kita soroti sejarah Nabi Muhammad SAW ketika berdakwah ke Thaif, baginda dihalau dan seruan nabi tidak diterima. Bahkan baginda dihina, dicaci dan dimaki hamun sambil dilontari batu kerikil dan pasir. Tetapi nabi tetap bersabar dan tidak sedikit pun baginda berusaha untuk mengelak sehingga baginda keluar dari Thaif dengan tumit kaki yang berlumuran darah. Kemudian Allah memerintahkan seorang malaikat penjaga gunung menghadap nabi dan meminta kepada nabi untkl menimpakan sebuah bukit di Thaif ke atas kaum Thaqif atas perbuatan mereka. Tetapi nabi mengatakan:

“Janganlah membinasakan mereka itu. Sesungguhnya mereka itu tidak mengetahui. Apa yang aku harapkan ialah suatu hari nanti akan lahir dari sulbi mereka itu anak-anak yang akan menyembah Allah dan tidak akan menyekutukanNYA dengan sesuatu apa pun.”

Begitulah luhurnya budi pekerti nabi terhadap orang yang melukakan nabi walaupun ketika itu baginda diberi peluang untuk membalas perbuatan mereka. Baginda tidak terus menghukum bahkan melepaskan mereka yang berusaha untuk membunuh nabi atas sebab mereka tidak mengetahui. Begitu jugalah seharusnya kita berkelakuan kepada yang bukan Islam kerana mereka tidak mengetahui sedangkan kita mengetahui. Contohilah akhlak yang ditunjukkan oleh nabi. Berapa ramai kafir Quraisy yang mulanya begitu keras terhadap nabi sehingga hendak membunuh nabi tetapi akhirnya memeluk Islam kerana akhlak yang ditunjukkan kepada mereka.

Perkara yang sama berlaku di Amerika Syarikat pada hari ini. Lebih 30000 rakyat Amerika memeluk Islam setiap tahun kerana mereka tertarik dengan akhlak yang ditunjukkan oleh penganut Islam di sana di samping keindahan Islam itu sendiri yang akhirnya Allah mencampakkan hidayah ke dalam hati mereka untuk menerima Islam.

Saya membantah penghinaan terhadap Islam tetapi saya juga tidak bersetuju jika agama lain dihina. Sebagaimana firman Allah:

Dan janganlah kamu cerca benda-benda yang mereka sembah yang lain dari Allah, kerana mereka kelak, akan mencerca Allah secara melampaui batas dengan ketiadaan pengetahuan. Demikianlah Kami memperelokkan pada pandangan tiap-tiap umat akan amal perbuatan mereka, kemudian kepada Tuhan merekalah tempat kembali mereka, lalu Ia menerangkan kepada mereka apa yang mereka telah lakukan. (al-An'am [6:10]).

Sekiranya kita berkeras dengan mereka ia bukan mendatangkan keuntungan kepada kita malahan menyebabkan imej Islam semakin kritikal di pandangan orang bukan Islam. Saat ini Islam di hina dan penganutnya ditindas ekoran fitnah dan propaganda pihak tertentu yang memusuhi Islam di tambah pula dengan sikap kita yang keterlaluan, bagaimanakah orang bukan Islam hendak melihat keindahan Islam dan sikap toleransi yang selalu kita war-warkan. Sebaliknya kita seakan membuatkan mereka mengiakan Islam adalah agama yang mengajar penganutnya bersikap keras kepada penganut agama lain. Ia bukannya mendatangkan kebaikan kepada Islam tetapi membuka luas peluang pihak yang memusuhi Islam untuk terus menghentam Islam dan maruah Islam terus dihenyak.

Fikir-fikirkanlah kesan daripada perbuatan kita kerana ia melibatkan maruah Islam. Orang bukan Islam melihat Islam sebagaimana yang ditonjolkan oleh penganutnya. Bersama-samalah kita menunjukkan contoh yang baik kepada orang bukan Islam dan bantahlah mereka dengan cara yang baik mudah-mudahan Allah akan membukakan pintu hati mereka untuk menerima Islam.

Serulah (manusia) kepada jalan Tuhanmu dengan hikmah dan pelajaran yang baik dan bantahlah

mereka dengan cara yang baik. Sesungguhnya Tuhanmu Dialah yang lebih mengetahui tentang siapa yang tersesat dari jalan-Nya dan Dialah yang lebih mengetahui orang-orang yang mendapat petunjuk. (An-nahl:125)

Sekian.

Dr. Hakim Quick Penang Lecture Tour 2009

2009-12-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

Dear friends,

Peace be with you.

We are pleased to invite you to the following programme:

Public Talks

"Saving Our Planet in Times of Crisis"

(Monday, 21 December @ 8pm)

"Who is Our Creator? Arriving at a True Concept of God"

(Tuesday, 22 December @ 8pm)

presented by:

Dr. Abdullah Hakim Quick

(Republic of South Africa)

Venue:

Caring Society Complex,

Jalan Utama,

10460 Penang

Free entrance and parking.

Quality books and DVDs will be on sale.

All are welcome.

Kindly forward this notice to your friends, colleague and acquaintance.

Brought to you by:

IPSI Penang

(www.ipsi.com.my)

There Is No Compulsion In Islam, Everyone Enjoys Freedom Of Worship And Belief

2009-10-17T00:10:00.000-07:00

There Is No Compulsion In Islam, Everyone Enjoys Freedom Of Worship And BeliefThere is no compulsion where the religion is concerned. Right guidance has become clearly distinct from error. Anyone who rejects false deities and believes in Allah has grasped the Firmest Handhold, which will never give way. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (Surat al-Baqara, 256)

Islam is a religion of love and beauty. Since people who live by Islam see the essence and beauty of this beautiful faith and have a profound belief in Allah, they live in a state of great excitement and enthusiasm. This is an opening of the heart. The source of devotion to Islam is love of Allah. A Muslim prays because of his love of Allah. He performs his religious obligations and lives by the Qur’an because of his love of Allah. In the Qur’an, Allah describes Muslims in that regard as “those whose hearts turn to Allah” and “those who are unreservedly devoted.”

A Muslim comprehends Islam and the might of Allah with his mind and confirms them with his heart. As set out in a definitive pronouncement in the Qur’an, nobody can impose the religion on anyone else by the use of force or compulsion. If attempts are made to force anyone to convert to Islam, that may make him a hypocrite rather than a Muslim. The result is the kind of person who is totally opposed to Islam. Under pressure, the hypocrite will say that he is a Muslim, though in his heart he harbors a conception that is a far cry from the moral values of the Qur’an and is a fraud who harbors hatred for and is inimical to Islam and Muslims. Allah describes those who engage in hypocrisy in these terms in the Qur’an:

Among the people there are some who say, ‘We believe in Allah and the Last Day,’ when they are not believers. They think they deceive Allah and those who believe. They deceive no one but themselves but they are not aware of it. There is a sickness in their hearts and Allah has increased their sickness. They will have a painful punishment on account of their denial. (Surat al-Baqara, 8-10)

When they meet those who believe, they say, ‘We believe.’ But then when they go apart with their demons, they say, ‘We are really with you. We were only mocking.’ (Surat al-Baqara, 14) That is because they have had belief and then returned to unbelief. So their hearts have been sealed up and they cannot understand. (Surat al-Munafiqun, 3) There is a group of you who propagated the lie... (Surat an-Nur, 24) There is a sickness in their hearts and Allah has increased their sickness. They will have a painful punishment on account of their denial. (Surat al-Baqara, 10)

Every Muslim has an obligation to preach the word of Islam and tell people of its pronouncements and excellent moral values. But this, the Qur’an states, can never be done through compulsion. The Qur’an may be communicated to Christians and Jews, but if these people insist of living by their own faiths, then there can be no question of forcing them to do otherwise.

For that reason, Allah says, “There is no compulsion in the religion” and speaks of the need for voluntary love. Compelling people to be Muslims is prohibited in Islam.

By the will of Allah, the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (as) in the End Times in which we are living is close at hand. In the time of Hazrat Mahdi (as) people will comprehend the essence of the religion and will turn to belief in Allah en masse. Hazrat Mahdi (as) will rule Muslims with the Qur’an, Christians with the Gospel and Jews with the Torah. Hazrat Mahdi (as) will spill no blood and, as commanded in the Qur’an, will call on people to believe in Allah and see the essence of the religion with love and sound counsel.

Salam Eid Mubarak

2009-09-24T04:09:00.000-07:00

Salam Eid Mubarak to all..
May you and your family enjoy the blessing of this day.
However, let us review our past Ramadhan with below article.
May Allah guide us through His path.

Ramadhan : Save and Continue

Nearly everyone in this age of modern technology has at some stage worked with a P.C. We have used it to draft documents, amend these documents, copied and pasted onto documents, used the "undo" icon, edited documents, just to mention a few of the time saving operations that we find on this device.

After opening a document that we have worked upon previously and made the necessary changes and improvements a little box appears on the screen asking the question:

Do you want to save the changes you have made to this document?

You are then given the option of selecting the YES tab or the NO tab.

Selecting the YES tab will give you the desired results.

Selecting the NO tab literally takes you back to square one.

All the effort made in editing, improving and shaping the document becomes an exercise in futility.

Dont we all find ourselves in a similar predicament when the blessed month of Ramadaan passes us? Just think of your book of deeds like a document on your P.C.

During the month of Ramadaan we have done amongst other things the following-

· Increased our Ibaadah and acts of charity;

· Took control of our feelings and emotion;

· Responded with compassion and sensitivity to the needs of other;

· Multiplied our good deeds;

At the same time we have spent many hours on the Musallah begging for Allahs forgiveness for our sins, errors and transgressions.

The vital question that needs to be asked is :

Do we want to save the changes that we have made in the month of Ramadaan?

Are we going to press the YES tab or the No tab?

Pressing the YES tab will leave us with a new, improved version. A version of heightened spirituality, a version of righteousness, a version that is pleasing to our Creator.

Pressing the NO tab will take us back to square one; back to our old habits before Ramadaan, back to the life of sin and immorality, back to a life of heedlessness and back to a life subjecting ourselves to the wrath of the Almighty.

How do we improve on this document; the document of our lives, the document of our deeds, the document that we are going to present to Allah the Almighty on the Day of Reckoning? Here are some hints: Copy and Paste from the life of our illustrious master Muhammad Sallallahu alayhi Wasallam.

Use the "undo" icon by making Taubah immediately after any transgression as the Hadith states "The one who repents from sin is like one who has committed no sin at all"

There may not be a need to do a "spell check" but there is certainly a need to do a "sincerity check" and a "Shariah check"? Are we complying?

There may be files and folders that we want to keep while there could be some others we would not even want others to know exist.

Many of us begged Allah to "delete" our sins and dark deeds .We cried before Allah, shed tears of remorse and vowed not to commit those sins in future.

Going back to the sins that we have asked Allahs forgiveness for would be like making a visit to the "recycle bin".

What about viruses? P.C. users are also very wary about e-mails they receive and the sites that they visit, fearing the admission of a virus that may pollute their system and cause it to malfunction.

Why do we then subject our minds and thoughts to immoral sites and dens of vice which would pollute our moral system and cause us to malfunction?

What anti-virus software have we installed to ward off the variety of Fitnahs that confront us everyday?

Fortunate is the person who has saved the changes. Extremely unfortunate is the person who has made no changes as he /she has nothing to save.

source: e.islam

Dialog Antara Agama

2009-08-30T20:33:00.000-07:00

Salam and Peace for all, we gladly invite you to this interfaith dialogue, brought to you by Educated Community (EC of FKAB) with the collaboration of Kelab Persaudaraan Kristian, UKM. Let's we have true peace in heart!

"If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other."

(Mother Teresa)

Do Muslims, Christians and Jews worship the same God?

2009-08-21T17:18:00.000-07:00

I was once on a cable television program during which I discussed with a Christian minister (an ex-Muslim) and another Christian whether Muslims and Christians worship the same God. The minister answered that question unabashedly in the negative: Muslims and Christians do not worship the same God.

I both agree and disagree: If by "God" the minister means Jesus Christ (peace be upon him), then no, Muslims and Christians do not worship the same God.
If, on the other hand, the "God" to which he was referring is the Deity to whom Christ himself directed his pleas in the Bible, then I strongly disagree. Muslims, Christians, and Jews most definitely worship the same God.

This God is the God of Abraham, Noah, Moses, Aaron, and of Jesus Christ himself. It is the God to whom Jesus refers in this passage in the New Testament:
"And it came to pass, that, as he [Jesus] was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. And he [Jesus] said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil." (Luke 11:1-4)

The One whom Jesus called "Our Father" is the God Whom I worship. When a "certain ruler" came to Jesus and asked him, "Good Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" (Luke 18:18), Jesus replied: "Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God" (Luke 18:19). The "only thing that is good" according to Jesus is the God Whom I worship. When, according to the Gospel account in Mark, Jesus was on the cross, he cried out, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Mark 15:34). The "El" on Whom Jesus called is the God that I worship.

The overwhelming majority of Muslims call this God by the Arabic name "Allah." This has prompted some to claim (absurdly) that this "Allah" is the pagan moon god, to which the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) wanted his followers to pray. "Allah" is the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe, the God of Adam, Seth, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Ishmael, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Aaron, and Jesus. He is the "Elohim" of the Old Testament, and "Eloi" in the New Testament. The word Allah comes from the same root word that forms the basis for the words used for God in the Bible: "Elohim," "ha Elohim," and "ha Eloh." "Allah" also comes from the same root word as the Aramaic (the language of Christ) word for God, which is "Alaha."
"Elohim," the Hebrew word for God, is derived from the word "eloh," which means "god." The "im" is a plural of abstraction, appended at the end for respect.
"Allah" is also related to the word "ilah," which is Arabic for "god." Thus, these three words - "eloh," "alah," "ilah" - are etymologically equivalent, just as "Deus," "Dios," and "Dio" are equivalent names for God in Latin, Spanish, and Italian respectively. The proto-Semitic root for "eloh," "alah," and "ilah" is "'LH," which means "to worship." Therefore, the literal meaning of "Elohim," "Alaha," and "Allah" is "the one whom is worshiped."
"Eloi," the name Jesus cried out on the cross in the account according to Mark, comes from this very same root word for God. Thus, "Allah" is not some foreign god whom the Muslims worship, but the very same God that Jesus called upon during his ministry on earth. If you were to pick up a copy of an Arabic translation of the Bible, you will find the word used for God is none other than "Allah."

Does this mean that the name "God" is inaccurate? I have heard some Muslims say that the only proper name to call God is "Allah." This could not be farther from the truth. The word "God" dates back to at least the Neolithic Period. It is derived from the proto-Indo-European word "gheu," which means "to invoke" or "to supplicate." "God," in fact, is a past participle of "gheu," and thus is means "the one who is invoked," very similar to the meaning of the word "Allah," which is "the one whom is worshiped."

What's more, the word "God" dates back to before Christianity, and its earliest documented use is in the poem Beowulf. Thus, to use the word "God" to refer to "Allah" is not only proper, it is linguistically correct for me as a native English speaker. To me, the names are interchangeable, and whichever word I use - "God" or "Allah" - is completely immaterial.

The God that I worship is the God of us all. His name has changed from epoch to epoch and people to people, but He is the self-same God of the universe, our Loving Creator Who gave us life and sustains it for us. Muslims may call Him "Allah," Christians may call Him "Father"; to me, there is no difference. He is my God and your God. Why can't more people today, both Muslims and non-Muslims, simply understand this?

http://www.helium.com/items/166437-do-muslims-christians-and-jews-worship-the-same-god

Does God Love us in Islam?

2009-08-20T23:07:00.000-07:00

by Hesham A. Hassaballa

If pressed, I would have to admit that, in the Qur'an, it is simply not there. It is indeed true that there is no statement that says: "God loves you." Some Christian critics of Islam gleefully point this out, contrasting that with the Bible, which claims that God loved the world so much that He sent his only son to his death: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

Yet, this is a very shallow assessment.

There does not need to be a statement in the Qur'an that says "God loves you" for me to know that God loves me. The fact that God loves me is all over the Qur'an; all one has to do is read the Qur'an to understand this. God's love, in fact, jumps out off the pages of the Holy Text. It is inescapable, if one knows how and where to look. Yet, this is new paradigm for many, many Muslims. Many Muslims do not think of God in terms of love and grace; they think of Him in terms of power and punishment.

In fact, never in my upbringing did I hear my mother - God bless her heart - tell me that "God loves you." Rather, she would tell me that the Lord would punish me if I did anything wrong (and let her know about it). I grew up in the fear of God. For the most part, it worked: I stayed out of trouble. Yet, I did so because I was afraid of getting into a car accident, or getting a bad grade in school, or not getting accepted into the college of my choice, etc. Such a paradigm, however, is liable of painting a picture of God as a vindictive, petty, harsh being who can't wait to punish his struggling servant for even the most minor of infractions. Such a mental picture of the Beloved is nothing short of disastrous.

Yet, do we have a concept of God loving us in Islam? Do we really believe that God loves us? I remember, growing up, that whenever God and love was mentioned, I was told, "That is a Christian thing." In Egypt, the land from where my ancestors hail, many Christian shopkeepers would have signs in their shops that say, "God is love." I have personally heard some Muslims chuckle when reading that and saying: "Christians! All they talk about is God and love." Yet, is the concept of God and love strictly a Christian one? Is it only a "Christian thing"?

Absolutely not. In fact, when one looks at the Qur'an; when one really reads into the Sacred Text, one cannot but be overwhelmed by the evidence of God's undying love for us. Indeed, the Qur'an

does say: " Say [to them Muhammad]: 'If you love God, follow me: God will love you and forgive you your sins: for God is oft-forgiving, most merciful.'" (3:31) Based on this verse, it seems that God's love is conditional: we have to love God first before He will love us. In addition, there are many verses that say "God loves this" and "God does not love that."

Once again, it seems that we have to do something first before God loves us.

This is only a small part of the picture. Indeed, if we strive to be repentant and pure because " God loves those who turn unto Him in repentance, and He loves those who keep themselves pure " (2:222), this is admirable. We must always strive to be those things that God loves and avoid those things which God does not love. Yet, I know that, a priori, God loves us, and I know this from the Qur'an.

Read this verse of the Holy Scripture: " How can you refuse to acknowledge God, seeing that you were lifeless and He gave you life, and that He will cause you to die and then bring you again to life, whereupon unto Him you will be brought back?" (2:28) The operative word is kufr in this verse: which means "refusal to acknowledge the truth" or "ungrateful." The verse can also be correctly translated as "How can you be ungrateful to God, seeing that you were lifeless and He gave you life..." The act of His giving us life when we were dead is one of selfless love.

What were we before God brought us to life? Absolutely nothing. God asks a question in the Qur'an: " Has there [not] been an endless span of time before man [appeared - a time] when he was not yet a thing to be thought of? " (76:1) The answer is clearly yes. Yet out of this nothingness, God gave us the breath of life and gave us the freedom to willfully transgress against Him on this earth. Is this nothing but an act of tremendous love?

Moreover, once we are brought into this world, we are given complete free will, despite the fact that we are eternally indebted to the Lord for His gift of life: " And say: 'The truth [has now come] from you Lord: let then, him who wills, believe in it, and let him who wills, reject it. " (18:29) Given that we have said free will, it is inevitable that we will sin and disobey the Everlasting Life-Giver. Yet, when that happens, He showers us with His soothing mercy:

"Yet, [withal] thy Sustainer is the Truly Forgiving One, limitless in His grace. Were He to take them [at once] to task for whatever [wrong] they commit, He would indeed bring

about their speedy punishment [then and there]: but nay, they have a time-limit beyond which they shall find no redemption. (18:58)

Say [to them Muhammad]: "If you love God, follow me. God will love you and forgive you your sins: For God is Forgiving, Most Merciful. (3:31)

Whereas unto God belongs all that is in the heaven and all that is on earth: He forgives whom He wills, and He chastises whom He will; and God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

3:129)

But pray God to forgive: behold, God is indeed much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace. (4:106)

Tell My servants that I, I alone, am truly forgiving, a true dispenser of grace. (15:49)

Say [to them Muhammad]: "[Thus sayest God:] "O you servants of Mine who have transgressed against your own selves! Despair not of God's mercy: behold, God forgives all sins - for, verily, He alone is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace." (39:53)

Say [to them Muhammad]: "Unto whom belongs all that is in the heavens and earth?" Say: "Unto God, who has willed upon Himself the law of grace and mercy..." (6:12)

Not only that, but our Lord is so near to us, ready and waiting for us to reach out to Him:

"When My servants ask you (O Muhammad) concerning Me, I am indeed close (to them): I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calls on Me: Let them also, with a will, Listen to My call, and believe in Me: That they may walk in the right way" (2:186)

"It was We Who created man, and We know what dark suggestions his soul makes to him: for We are nearer to him than (his) jugular vein " (50:16)

Is this not all a manifestation of the love of God? Is this not clear proof that the basis of the relationship between God and humanity is one of mutual love? The verses I quoted above are but a smattering of all the passages in the Qur'an that mention God's mercy. From where does such mercy, compassion, forgiveness, and kindness come? Is it not from love? It is, indeed. God loves us, and I do not need a verse of the Qur'an to say so. So, whenever you think about God and love, always remember: it is a Muslim thing as well.

http://www.helium.com/items/913437-does-god-love-us-in-islam

Top 10 reasons why Jesus Christ Isn't God!

2009-08-20T05:09:00.000-07:00

Salaam, Shalom, May peace be upon you...

Just want to share with you this talk show that I've watched just now at thedeenshow.com

The original source is from:

http://thedeenshow.com/show.php?action=detail&id=950

I read the comments from the site and paused at this statement:

"I have been an evangelical Christian for most of my life (30+ years) but am considering Islam. I am so thankful for this video/discussion! It makes so much sense and makes very good points and if I am really honest I don't think I can continue to believe that Jesus is God. In the past, this would have been scary to consider but now its almost a relief because the true focus is on Allah. Pray for me. I have decisions and actions to make..."

open your mind, humble your heart, enjoy the show!

Soon will We(Allah) show them our Signs in the (furthest) regions (of the earth), and in their own souls, until it becomes manifest to them that this is the Truth. Is it not enough that thy Lord doth witness all things?

[Fussilat:53]

A fetus Prostrates to God

2009-08-18T07:40:00.000-07:00

We got curious about what our son does when we play Quran to him in the womb. Here's what we were surprised to find. You will see how active he was before the Quran was recited to him. A fetus prostrates to God (Allah s.w.t) at the sound of the Quran. Another proof of how Islam (Submission to God) is our natural state.

SubhanAllah!

AllahuAkbar!

“Zionism Today is the Real Enemy of the Jews”

2009-08-07T17:06:00.000-07:00

By:Avi Shlaim
This is an emotive subject so let me begin by stating where I stand. I have
never questioned the legitimacy of the Zionist movement or of the state of
Israel within its pre-June 1967 borders. What I reject, and reject totally, is the
Zionist colonial project beyond the 1967 border.
Israel’s illegal occupation of the Palestinian territories since 1967 is the basic
problem. This is one of the most prolonged and brutal military occupations of
modern times. I condemn it above all for what it has done to the Palestinians.
But sadly, it has also eroded the democratic foundations of Israeli society.
Occupation distorted the natural course of mainstream Zionism. Zionism
was, above all, the national liberation movement of the Jewish people but it
also upheld universal values like freedom, equality, socialism, and peace.
Post-1967 Zionism, however, both in its secular and in its religious varieties,
developed a territorial obsession. It is not about values; it is about land. The
obsession is to keep the whole of the Land of Israel in the hands of the Jewish
people. This transformed the Zionist movement from a legitimate national
liberation movement for the Jews into a colonial power and an oppressor of
the Palestinians.
By Zionism today I mean the ideological, ultra-nationalist settlers, both
religious and secular, and their supports in the Likud-led government. These
settlers are a tiny minority but they maintain a strangle-hold over the Israeli
political system. They represent the unacceptable face of Zionism. Zionism
does not equal racism, but many of these hard-line settlers and their leaders
are blatant racists. Their extremism and their excesses have led some people
to start questioning the legitimacy of the State of Israel, its very right to exist.
And it is these settlers who also endanger the safety and wellbeing of Jews
everywhere.
Ariel Sharon personifies this xenophobic, exclusive, aggressive, and
expansionist brand of Zionism. One of the greatest accolades in Judaism is to
be a rodef shalom, a seeker of peace. Sharon is not that by any stretch of the
imagination. He is a man of war and the champion of violent solutions.
George W. Bush famously described Sharon as “a man of peace”. I have done
a bit of research on the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict and I can honestly
say that I have never come across a single shred of evidence to support the
view of Sharon as a man of peace!
Sharon’s purpose is politicide: to deny the Palestinians any independent
political existence in Palestine. For him the Palestinian Authority is not the
government of a state in-the-making but a sub-contractor that is failing in its
primary duty which is to protect Israel’s security. Sharon refuses to negotiate
with the PA on a solution to the conflict. His plan for withdrawal from Gaza
is called “the unilateral disengagement plan”. Sharon is the unilateralist par
excellence — excuse my French. He is a Jewish Rambo — the antithesis of the
traditional Jewish values of truth, justice, and tolerance.
Sharon’s government is waging a savage war against the Palestinian people -
not just militants but ordinary civilians. Its policies include
- the confiscation of land and property
- the demolition of houses
- the uprooting of trees
- curfews, roadblocks, and 736 checkpoints that inflict horrendous hardships -
systematic abuse of Palestinian human rights
- and the culture of impunity that allows Israeli soldiers to kill not only
Palestinian children but peace activists like Rachel Corrie and Tom Hurndall.
Last but not least there is the so-called security barrier that Israel is building
in the West Bank. Its declared purpose is to prevent terrorist attacks but it is
as much about land-grabbing as it is about security. By building the wall
Israel is unilaterally redrawing the borders at the expense of the Palestinians.
It is “in your face” violence against the Palestinians. It separates children from
their schools, farmers from their land, and whole villages from their medical
facilities. The wall is a flagrant violation of international law. It was
condemned by the International Court of Justice and by the UN General
Assembly but construction continues regardless. It is not for nothing that
Sharon used to be called “the bulldozer”.
It is this brand of cruel Zionism that is the real enemy of what remains of
liberal Israel and of the Jews outside Israel. It is the enemy because it fuels the
flames of virulent and sometimes violent anti-Semitism. Israel¹s policies are
the cause; hatred of Israel and anti-Semitism are the consequences.
There has been much talk in recent years about “the new anti-Semitism”. The
argument, in a nutshell, is that the resurgence of anti-Semitism has little or
nothing to do with Israel¹s behaviour. Anti-Zionism is merely a surrogate, so
the argument runs, for bad, old-fashioned anti-Semitism.
These arguments need to be addressed. First of all: what is anti-Semitism?
Isaiah Berlin defined an anti-Semite as “someone who hates Jews more than is
strictly necessary!” This mischievous definition has the merit of applying to
all anti-Semitism, old as well as new.
But we need to look beyond the labels. Is there a lot of classic anti-Semitism
about? Yes. Do some people use anti-Zionism as a respectable cover for their
despicable Judeophobia? Yes.What is the relative weight of hatred of Israel on
the one hand and Judeophobia on the other in the making of the new anti-
Semitism? I don’t know.
What I do know is that a lot of decent people, without any anti-Semitic
baggage, are really upset and angry with Israel over its inhumane treatment
of the Palestinians. There is simply no getting away from the fact that
attitudes towards Israel have changed in recent years as a result of its own
shift towards the Zionism of the extreme Right and of the radical rabbis. We
have to recall that during the years of the Oslo peace process, when Itzhak
Rabin and Shimon Peres were leading, Israel was the favourite of the West.
Anti-Semitism was limited because they gave the message that Israel was
willing to withdraw from the occupied territories for the sake of peace.
Sharon’s government is prepared to withdraw from Gaza but only as a
prelude to annexing large chunks of the West Bank to Greater Israel. This is a
recipe not for peace but for perpetual conflict, violence, and bloodshed.
Israel¹s image today is negative not because it is a Jewish state but because it
habitually transgresses the norms of acceptable international behaviour.
Indeed, Israel is increasingly perceived as a rogue state, as an international
pariah, and as a threat to world peace.
In a Eurobarometer poll in 2003, 59% of respondents said the Israel posed a
threat to world peace. This was the highest percentage for any of the 15
countries on the list. America was the runner-up with 53%.
This perception of Israel, I submit, is a major factor in the recent resurgence of
anti-Semitism in Europe and in the rest of the world. In other words, Zionism
today is the real enemy of the Jews.
Chaim Weizmann wrote in his autobiography that Zionism will be judged by
its treatment of the Palestinians. Well, in this respect, Zionism today is a
catastrophic failure.
But the principal purpose of Zionism was to provide a haven for the Jewish
people after the Holocaust. It is very melancholy to have to add that, in this
respect too, Zionism turned out to be a failure. Israel is now one of the least
safe places on earth for Jews to live in.
This sorry state of affairs is unlikely to end until the Zionist colonial project
across the 1967 border comes to an end. Zionism’s supreme interest lies in
ending the illegal occupation of what is another people’s land.
Israel ought to withdraw from the occupied territories not as a favour to the
Palestinians but as a favour to itself for, as Karl Marx noted, a people that
oppresses another cannot itself remain free.

http://www.melaniephillips.com/diary/archives/Zionism%20AS.pdf

From The VATICAN to AL-AZHAR

2009-07-22T01:12:00.000-07:00

muslims + non-muslims are welcome!

Grammar for Life

2009-07-08T22:29:00.000-07:00

Live in active voice, not the passive.
Think more about what you make happen than what happens to you.

Live in the indicative mood rather than subjective.
Be concerned with things as they are rather than as they might be.

Live in the present tense facing the duty at hand.
Without regret for the past or worry for the future.

Live in the first person,
criticising yourself rather than finding fault with others.

Live in singular number,
caring more for the approval of your own conscience than for the applause of the crowd.

And if you want a verb to conjugate,
you cannot do better than to take a verb “to love”.

LOVE

2009-07-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

Believers know that since Allah created them, only He is worthy of their love, closeness, and devotion. After creating them out of nothing, Allah has continued to meet all of their physical and spiritual needs by creating countless blessings for everyone. Furthermore, as long as people have faith in and obey Him, Allah will reward them with a great and eternal blessing in both worlds, along with love and approval in His sight. He bestows all of these things for no return, as a mercy and blessing from His presence. Given this, how can any other member of creation be worthy of a person’s love and devotion?

One cause of love is the interest and awe felt when confronted with the beloved’s superior and beautiful features. When this interest and awe is returned, the relationship turns into a powerful bond of affection. The important point here, however, is to determine to whom this superiority and beauty actually belong and then to turn these feelings of interest and awe in the proper direction: Allah is the source and true Lord of all beauty, superiority, and exalted titles. The titles that may appear to be inherent in His creations are actually nothing more than very minor manifestations of His infinite titles and, in fact, belong to Him alone. Thus, given that Allah manifests Himself in His servants, any love that one feels should be felt for Allah alone. If this is not the case, the person has ascribed equals to Allah.

Of course it is not wrong to feel love. What is wrong, however, is to forget Allah and bind oneself, with passion and fanaticism, to that which is not Him or to abandon those things of which He approves and finds pleasing. When looked at through the eyes of faith, all beauty possessed by human beings is understood to belong to Allah. Those who realize this naturally turn to Him and are aware that by loving the other person, they actually love Allah. Idolatrous love, however, is quite different:

He (Ibrahim) said: “You have adopted idols apart from Allah as tokens of mutual affection in this world. But then on the Day of Rising, you will reject and curse each other. The Fire will be your shelter. You will have no helpers.” (Surat al-‘Ankabut: 25)

This bond of love will turn into hatred and mutual rejection, because these man-made idols to which people became attached through emotional bonds will bring them chastisement in the Hereafter. No one who takes Allah as his or her Only God can love any other thing or person as much as or more than he or she loves Allah. As for the idolaters, the Qur’an says:

Some people set up equals to Allah, loving them as they should love Allah. But those who believe have greater love for Allah. If only you could see those who do wrong at the time when they see the punishment, and that truly all strength belongs to Allah, and that Allah is severe in punishment. (Surat al-Baqara: 165)

The believers give Allah all of their love, for not doing so would mean that they are not sincere in their faith or lack a proper knowledge of Allah and Islam. Indeed, those who ascribe equals to Allah have a flawed and deficient knowledge and understanding of Him. Unable to establish a sincere closeness to Allah and appreciate Him as they should, they direct their love toward that which is not Him.

Here it will be useful to concentrate upon the male-female relationship, the tightest and most frequently observed form of idolatrous love. In these relationships, any devotion and togetherness constructed independently of Allah’s approval is a major cause of deviation into idolatry. Thus, they are usually based on romanticism, emotionality, and mutual benefit, for one person is seeking the other person’s approval. Not hesitating even for a moment about transgressing the bounds Allah set for humanity in order to please each other, they direct the love bestowed upon them by Allah toward each other and soon forget Him. The result is people who fulfill all duties to each other, instead of to Allah, and who regard each other as independent entities. The Qur’an describes such relationships as mutual worship and deifying the other person.

The Qur’an notes the passion-filled love felt toward women in such relationships. If this love causes the man to forget Allah or to not remember Him as is His due, if he prefers his love of the woman over and above his love for Allah, and if it replaces his love for Allah in his heart, he is heading toward idolatry. The same is true for the female member of this relationship. The Qur’an tells us that such a love, which society considers “innocent,” is not pleasing to Allah:

What they call on apart from Him are female idols. What they call on is an arrogant satan. (Surat an-Nisa’: 117)

Society calls this idolatrous love true love, romantic, and pure emotion; it even praises and encourages it. Since this romantic propaganda hinders the development of young people’s minds and consciousness, generations emerge that are unaware of religion, faith, or the reason for their creation. Never having known Allah, they feel no love, fear, or respect for Him. In their eyes, idolatry is a natural form of behavior, an acceptable lifestyle. Of course people may love and be affectionate toward each other, but they must not do so independently of Allah. Apart from this, and as long as their love is based on their love of Allah, they are among those people whom the Qur’an says are “devoted, passionate, of like age” (Surat al-Waqi‘a: 37) in Paradise. Thus, this model is legitimate.

The love felt by believers is a transparent, radiant one that gives ease to the heart, for it is addressed to Allah.

Those who say, “Our Lord is Allah,” and then go straight will feel no fear and will know no sorrow. (Surat al-Ahqaf: 13)

The Biological Clock In Plants

2009-07-05T20:17:00.001-07:00

Many plants have a biological clock containing details of their own structure and other life forms that assist them with pollination and that bears a literal resemblance to a computer. The existence of this biological clocks points to a single reality, the fact of Creation.

The ability to measure time is an ability that one does not usually expect to see in other living things other than man. It may be thought that this is limited to man, but both plants and animals possess a time-measuring mechanism, or "biological clock."

In the 1920s, when two scientists in Germany, Erwin Buenning and Kurt Stem, were studying the movement of bean plant leaves, they saw that the plants were moving their leaves towards the sun throughout the day, and that at night they were gathering their leaves vertically upwards and assuming a sleeping position.

Some 200 years before these two scientists published their findings, the French astronomer Jacques d'Ortuous de Marian had also observed that plants possessed such a regular sleep rhythm. Experiments in a dark environment where temperature and moisture were controlled showed that this situation did not change, and that plants possessed systems inside themselves which measure time.

Under natural conditions, plants select certain times for certain activities. They do this in line with certain changes in the sunlight. Because their internal clocks are tuned to sunlight, they complete their rhythmic activities in 24 hours. In other cases, there are some rhythms which are much longer than 24 hours.

No matter how long the rhythmic motions last, there is one point that does not change. These motions happen to ensure the life of the plant and the survival of the generations, and always take place at the most appropriate time. And in order for them to be successful, several complicated processes have to be completed in a flawless manner.

For example, in most plants flowers open at a particular time of year, i.e. at the best possible time. Plants' clocks, which regulate this time, also calculate the duration of sunlight falling on the leaves. Every plant's biological clock calculates this period in accordance with the plant's particular features. No matter what the calculation, the flowers open at the most appropriate time. As a result of research into the regulation of time in the soya bean, it was seen that, at whatever time these plants are sown, they open their flowers at the same time of year.

Plants use this perfect sense of timing in many of their functions, not just opening flowers. For example, it causes the time the poppy flower disperses its pollen to coincide with the days and hours when pollinators are most prevalent. And these days and hours vary from plant to plant. But at the end of the day, with this time regulation, every plant disperses its pollen in a manner guaranteed to give the best results. Poppy flowers disperse their pollen in July and August between 05:30 and 10:00 in the morning. That is the time is that bees and other insects emerge to look for food. At this point the flower has to include in its calculation not just its own characteristics, but also those of other living things, down to the finest detail. The plant must have accurate knowledge of the time when the creatures which will fertilize it emerge, the length of the journey they will undertake, and the times they feed. In such a situation the following question comes to mind: Where in the plant is this clock, which possesses all this "information," which does all the necessary calculations, analyses the features of other creatures, and works in a way reminiscent of a computer centre? Scientists believe that biological clocks in living things other than plants generally come into existence as an effect of the pituitary gland. But where the perfect time measuring system is in plants is still a mystery to them.

This clearly indicates a superior intelligence and power which establishes and controls the timing of all plants' different activities.

The biological clock in plants is just one of the countless miracles of Creation. The theory of evolution on the other hand, which irrationally maintains that life emerged by chance, conflicts with scientific truths and tries to find support for its claims by building various fantasies. This is a reality that evolutionists admit from time to time.The famous, Nobel prize-winning evolutionist Dr. Robert Milikan admits the evolutionists’s predicament;

"The pathetic thing is that we have scientists who are trying to prove evolution, which no scientist can ever prove. (SBS Vital topics, David B. Loughran, April 1996, Stewarton, Scotland, URL:http://www.rmplc.co.uk/eduweb/sites/sbs777/vital/evolutio.html)

God shows us proofs of His creation with His superior power and infinite knowledge everywhere, and expects us to reflect and draw conclusions from them. As stated in the Qur’an, only people capable of using their intellects can think and learn and thus know and appreciate our Lord in the best possible way.

“It is He Who sends down water from the sky. From it you drink and from it come the shrubs among which you graze your herds. And by it He makes crops grow for you and olives and dates and grapes and fruit of every kind. There is certainly a Sign in that for people who reflect.” (Sura An-Nahl, 10-11)

Have You Ever Thought Of This?

2009-07-02T17:57:00.000-07:00

When we go out we see a great many striking details all around us. These include bright shop windows and sparkling goods made out of crystal adorning them. But have you ever stopped to think that when you look at a crystal glass, that glass is actually an image produced by electric signals flowing to the brain? The power in the brain perceives these low-voltage electric signals arriving at a pitch-black piece of flesh within the brain as the image of a colored, three-dimensional, sparkling and highly attractive crystal goblet.

In other words, you actually have direct experience, not of the true image of the crystal glass that exists on the outside, but of a copy image forming in your brain. You can never establish a direct connection with the original of the crystal glass on the outside. What you establish a connection with is electric signals coming from the glass and belonging to perceptions of sight and touch. The way the power in the brain perceives these as the image of “a perfect crystal goblet” is a metaphysical miracle. It is the soul, acting by the will of Allah (God), that perceives the electric signals in your brain as a three-dimensional and brightly colored world. Allah shows our souls copy images of the glass, shop windows, streets and the world we live in, the originals of which exist on the outside, in a miraculous manner. There is never the slightest break in the continuity of these images. We watch the world that Allah creates for us every single moment.

The Ignored sickness: An Unpredictable State Of Mind

2009-07-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

What is the underlying cause of the way that some people suddenly become infuriated or emotional and start weeping or behave in some unexpected way in the face of day-to-day events?
• Why is it essential to avoid falling prey to this disorder, which mainly damages the victim himself and is generally described as someone “having a hair trigger?”
• What must be done to free oneself from the condition?

Some people live their lives according to rules they themselves have invented. These people can easily make concessions regarding these rules when it comes to their own worldly desires. Because they have no guide who will direct the course of their lives, ensure they maintain a stable character, and whom they have a total belief. For that reason, their characters are prone to sudden variations. Among the distinguishing features of such people are, for instance, their suddenly slamming doors and acting aggressively towards people around them or shouting in a loud voice although they had been sitting perfectly calmly just five minutes ago, or suddenly bursting into tears having just said how happy they were.

The fundamental reason for this behavioural defect that all believers must scrupulously avoid, is that such people fail to frame their behaviour, speech, actions, thoughts and reactions to events in the light of the moral values of the Qur’an.

The Obstacles to a Balanced Nature

I. Following One’s Worldly Desires

In the Qur’an, Almighty God reveals that people have been created with a tendency towards selfish passions. If someone permits his worldly concerns to rule him, then all his behaviour will be shaped by selfish wishes. These selfish desires will prevent him displaying a stable, consisted and balanced nature. As a result of the prompting of worldly concerns he may suddenly become enraged, or emotional, or sulky, or jealous and start taking sudden decisions in the light of these emotions. His character will always come as a surprise, therefore, to those around him. There will be no consistency between one moment and another. His state of mind, thoughts, feeling, decisions and perspectives can change at any moment. Because of his unbalanced and inconsistent behaviour, such a person will always inspire feeling of unease and distrust in those around him.

One often comes across such characters in societies that are far from religious moral values. People with such a character are far removed from the mindset bestowed by Qur’anic moral virtues and therefore permit themselves to be ruled by their own desires. This, in turn, distances them from reason and encourages unbalanced behaviour. In such situations, Muslims’ guide is the Qur’an. In the Qur’an, God warns us that worldly passions will always encourage one to evil and that Shaytan will oblige people to behave inconsistently, irrationally and emotionally, as dictated by their desires. He also imparts the glad tidings that people who adopt the Qur’an as their guide in the face of this, however, and who act according to the stirring of their consciences, will achieve the ideal character and enjoy superiority in both this world and the hereafter.

A believer achieves this strong and superior character by following the path shown by God. Since the Qur’an is his guide, his behaviour and reactions in the face of events are always shaped according to Qur’anic moral values. How he will behave, his perspective on events and the logic he adopts will never come as a surprise to those around him. His mind, conscience, behaviour and speech always reflect the stability required by Qur’anic virtue, and his nature is therefore always to be trusted.

II. Acting Emotionally

Emotionality is not regarded as undesirable in societies oblivious to religious moral values. Indeed, it is generally believed that a certain amount of emotionality in a person’s make-up is an important attribute. According to that way of thinking, the behaviour caused by emotionality is human feelings that need to be let out. For that reason, character defects stemming from emotionality, such as “touchiness, dissatisfaction, sulking, weeping, an introverted state of mind, apathy, jealousy or anger,” are encouraged by suggesting they are “emotions representing human nature.” Nothing could be more wrong, however.

Emotionality that is widespread in societies oblivious to the moral values of the Qur’an lead to people having weak characters. Since people react to events in the light of their own emotions, they tend to act irrationally. They become unable to think logically and accurately or to make sound deductions. And this leads to people being unpredictable and inflicting material and psychological damage on themselves and those around them.

However, since the Qur’an rules the whole of a believer’s life and character, he possesses the most accurate knowledge regarding the promptings of one’s passions and how to combat it. He knows that emotionality clouds one’s reason, prevents one thinking straight and seeing the truth, and also makes one weak and lacking in resistance. He is also aware that the sentimentality also equated with this weak character, grieving, weeping, ranting and raving, anger, jealousy and self-centredness, are all traits that will ill-befit him. That is because all such behaviour must be avoided as it is displeasing to God.

The Solution to an Unpredictable Character is Love of God

Sincere devotion to God, genuine submission, and knowing that everything transpires under His control and that everything is for the best prevent one falling prey to one’s emotions and behaving badly. Because of his powerful love and fear of God, the believer scrupulously avoids all forms of behaviour that might result from emotionality. He aims, with all his behaviour, character and lofty virtues to be a role model for others, as revealed by God in the Qur’an (Surah Furqan, 74). And by God’s leave, this endows him with a strong character that never collapses under any circumstances.

Believers regulate their whole lives according to Qur’anic moral virtues. They know that avoiding the defects of personality prevalent in societies devoid of faith and exhibiting a strong character will serve as a role model for others and behave in complete awareness of that responsibility. As God reveals in the Qur’an in the words “It is the people who are safe-guarded from the avarice of their own selves who are successful” (Surat al-Hashr, 9), they strive to cleanse their desires of evil. God has revealed that in return for that effort believers will enjoy peace, blessings and happiness in this world and the hereafter: “What is with you runs out but what is with Allah goes on for ever. Those who were steadfast will be recompensed according to the best of what they did. Anyone who acts rightly, male or female, being a believer, We will give them a good life and We will recompense them according to the best of what they did.” (Surat an-Nahl, 96-97)

All the negative behaviour manifesting an unpredictable state of mind stem from defects of faith and a failure to fully comprehend certain realities.

People who are prone to enormous distress, who fall prey to weeping or rage or jealousy, or who sulk in silence and become totally introverted are unaware of God’s might, that He has created all things with goodness, wisdom and justice, that He can perform whatever He wishes whenever He wishes, and that He will heed people’s prayers.

All sorrow, anger and jealousy stem from weakness of faith and errors originating from that perspective.

Goodness In All

2009-07-02T17:13:00.000-07:00

All things are created with wisdom and with an ulterior purpose. In consort with this ulterior purpose, there are benefits for the believers in all happenings. Because Allah is on the believers’ side and does not let them down.

Encounters in life may at first seem unfavourable for the believers. However, one should understand that even seemingly e events, for example, a plot of hatched against them by the unbelievers, will ultimately turn out well for them. Allah will sooner or later let them savour His beneficence so, believers should be completely sure that there is goodness in all.

There are many examples of this kind of situation in the Qur’an; the life of Yusuf (Joseph) is one of the most remarkable. In his childhood, Yusuf had been thrown down to the bottom of a well by his brothers. He was later rescued and then accused and imprisoned, even though he was innocent. For a person without faith, these incidents may be thought of as the greatest misfortunes. Nevertheless, Yusuf always kept in mind that these could only happen under Allah’s ection and that all would certainly turn out for the better. And this proved to be true. Allah turned the “disasters” to good account; Yusuf was released from prison and in time became one of the governors of that land.

The situation with Yunus (Jonah) was no different. He fled to a laden ship, where, to retain his place, he drew lots. When the draw proved unfavourable, he was thrown into the sea where he was swallowed by a gigantic fish. The Qur’an informs us that he was rescued and was sent to a “nation a hundred thousand men or more,” only because he had glorified Allah.

“Had he not been of them who glorify Allâh, He would have indeed remained inside its belly (the fish) till the Day of Resurrection. But We cast him forth on the naked shore while he was sick, And We caused a plant of gourd to grow over him. And We sent him to a hundred thousand (people) or even more. And they believed; so We gave them enjoyment for a while.” (Surat as-Saaffat, 37:143-148)

All these examples given in the Qur’an teach us that the events which seems to be a “misfortune” are not really so for the believer. If he puts his trust in Allah, seeks refuge in Him and asks help only from Him, then nothing will be a matter of regret for him. Allah does create certain difficulties, but they are only to put man to the test and to strengthen believers’ loyalty and faith.

The opposite holds true for the unbelievers. Nothing in this life can be good for them. Things that strike them as delightful or pleasant are indeed “misfortunes”, and these will increase their torment in the Hereafter. Anything that they achieve unjustly is entered in their record, and for this they will ultimately be responsible. On this score the Qur’an records Allah’s commandments:

“And let not those who covetously withhold of that which Allah has bestowed on them of His Bounty think that it is good for them. Nay, it will be worse for them; the things which they covetously withheld shall be tied to their necks like a collar on the Day of Resurrection. And to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth; and Allah is Well Acquainted with all that you do.” (Surat Aal-e-Imran, 3:180)

The Nature of Revelation

2009-06-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

By The Editorial Team of Dr. Abdurrahman al-Muala

Revelation is where God imparts whatever knowledge He wills to those whom He chooses to receive it. God gives this knowledge to them in order for them to convey it to whomever else He wishes.

All the Messengers of God experienced revelation. God says:

“Verily, We have sent Revelation to you (O Muhammad) as We have sent Revelation to Noah and the prophets who came after him. We had sent revelation to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, the Tribes, Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron, and Solomon. And to David We gave the Psalms. And Messengers We have told you about before, and Messengers We have not told you about – and to Moses We spoke directly.” (Quran 4:163)

The possibility of divine revelation cannot be denied by anyone who believes in the existence of God and in His omnipotence. God maintains His creation in any manner that pleases Him. The connection between the Creator and his Creation is by way of His Messengers, and these Messengers only know what God wants from them by way of revelation, either directly or indirectly. The rational mind cannot dismiss the possibility of revelation, since nothing is difficult for the all-powerful Creator.

The Nature of Revelation

Revelation is not a personal experience that a Prophet brings forth from within himself. It is not a spiritual state that a person can attain by doing certain meditations or spiritual exercises. Quite the contrary, revelation is a communication between two beings: one that speaks, commands, and gives, and another who is addressed, commanded, and receives. Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him – as with every Prophet – never confused himself with the One who gave the revelation to him. As a human being, he felt his weakness before God, feared God’s wrath if he should disobey, and hoped for God’s mercy.

He sought help from God, submitted to what he was commanded to do, and was on occasion even sternly reprimanded by God. The Prophet admitted his absolute inability to alter even one word of God’s Book. God says:

“And when Our clear signs are recited to them, those who hope not for a meeting with Us say: ‘Bring a Quran other than this or change it.’ Say (O Muhammad): ‘It is not for me to change it of my own accord. I only follow what is revealed to me. I fear, if I were to disobey my Lord, the punishment of an awful day.’ Say: ‘If God had willed, I would not have recited it to you nor would He have made it known to you. I have lived with you a whole lifetime before it came to me. Have you no sense?’” (Quran 10:15-16)

This should make perfectly clear the difference between the essence, attributes, and ways of the Creator and those of His Creation.

The Prophet took great care to maintain a distinction between his own speech (the Hadeeth) and the direct speech of God, though both were the result of revelation. For this reason, in the early period of revelation, he used to prohibit anything that he uttered to be written down except for the Quran. This preserved for the Quran its distinctiveness as being the very word of God, unmixed with the speech of people.

The Prophet would also make a distinction in his own speech between his own opinions and what came from God as revelation.

He said: “I am only a human being like yourselves. Opinions can be right or wrong. But, when I say to you that God said something, then know that I will never attribute something false to God.”

The Prophet had no hand in the revelation that he received. Revelation is a force external to the being of the Prophet (may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him). He was not able to manipulate it in any way. This is supported by the fact that certain crises would befall the Prophet or one of those around him that required an immediate solution, but he found no verse of Quran to recite to the people. He had to remain silent and wait, sometimes in desperation, until God, in His wisdom, revealed what was needed.

A good example of this is the time when Aishah, the wife of the Prophet was accused of adultery by some of the hypocrites, though she was innocent. People began to say things that were painful for the Prophet until his heart was about to burst. He was unable to prohibit this. All he could say was:

“O Aishah, I have heard this or that. If you are innocent, then God will show your innocence, and if you fell into sin, then seek God’s forgiveness.”

A whole month passed like this before the revelation came down declaring Aishah’s innocence and exonerating the household of the Prophet (may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him).

In brief, revelation has nothing to do with the choices and wishes of the one who receives it. It is an unusual, external occurrence. It is a force of knowledge, because it gives knowledge. It is free from error. It comes only with the truth and guides only to what is right.

How revelation comes to the angels and to the Messengers

In the Quran it is mentioned that God speaks to the angels. God says:

“And (remember) when your Lord revealed to the angels: ‘Verily I am with you, so keep firm those who have believed’…” (Quran 8:12)

Revelation to the angels happens by God speaking to them and the angels hearing from Him.

Revelation comes to God’s human Messengers either directly or through an intermediary. In the case of an intermediary, it is the angel Gabriel who brings the revelation. There are two ways that this occurs:

1. The angel would come to him with a voice like the clanging of a bell. This is the severest way revelation would come to the Messenger (may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him). Such a harsh sound demands the full attention of the one being addressed with it. When the revelation came in this manner, it was extremely demanding upon all of the Messenger’s faculties (may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him).

2. The angel would come to him in the form of a man. This was easier than the previous way, since the form of the angelic Messenger was familiar to the human Messenger and easier to relate to.

Both of these ways are mentioned by the Prophet in his answer to al-Haarith b. Hishaam when he asked how the revelation came to him. God’s Messenger said:

“Sometimes he comes to me like the clanging of a bell, and this is the most difficult for me. It weighs upon me and I commit to memory what he says. And sometimes the angel comes to me in the form of a man and speaks to me and I commit to memory what he says.”

Revelation without an intermediary happens in two ways:

1. A good dream: Aishah relates:

“It began as a good dream during sleep. He would not have a dream except that it would come as clear as day.”

This was to prepare God’s Messenger to receive revelation while awake. The whole Quran was revealed while the Prophet was awake.

The story of Abraham when he was commanded to sacrifice his son demonstrates how a dream can be revelation that must be acted upon. God says:

“So We gave him glad tidings of a forbearing boy. And when he was old enough to walk with him, he said: ‘My son, I have seen in a dream that I am sacrificing you. So look, what do you think?’ He said: ‘O my father, do what you are commanded. By God’s will, you shall find me to be among those who are patient.’ Then, when they had both submitted themselves and he had laid him prone on his forehead, We called out to him: ‘O Abraham, you have fulfilled the dream.’ Thus do We reward the righteous. That was indeed a manifest trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice. And We left for him a goodly remembrance for later generations. Peace be upon Abraham! Thus indeed do We reward the righteous. Verily, he was one of Our believing servants.” (Quran 37:101-111)

If that dream had not been revelation that had to be obeyed, Abraham would never have gone forward to sacrifice his son, but in fact he almost did so. He was only stopped because God commanded him to stop and ordered him to sacrifice something else instead.

The good dream is not only for the Prophets. It remains for the believers, even though it is not revelation. God’s Messenger said:

“Nothing remains of prophecy except for glad tidings.” When he was asked what these glad tidings were, he said: “Dreams.”

2. God speaking directly from behind a barrier: This happened to Prophet Moses, (may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him). God says:

“When Moses came to Our appointed meeting, his Lord spoke to him…” (Quran 7:143)

God also says:

“…And God spoke to Moses directly.” (Quran 4:164)

This also happened to Prophet Muhammad (may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him) on the night of his Journey and Ascension when he was taken up into the heavens and his Lord spoke to him.

All of these ways of receiving revelation are mentioned in the Quran. God says:

“It is not for a human being that God should speak to him except as revelation or from behind a barrier, or by sending a Messenger who reveals by His leave whatever He wishes. Verily, He is All-Knowing, All-Wise.” (Quran 42:51)

Why Islam?

2009-06-29T18:49:00.000-07:00

Let’s talk frankly. Almost never do non-Muslims study Islam until they have first exhausted the religions of their exposure. Only after they have grown dissatisfied with the religions familiar to them, meaning Judaism, Christianity and all the fashionable “-isms”—Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism (and, as my young daughter once added, “tourism”)—do they consider Islam.

Perhaps other religions do not answer the big questions of life, such as “Who made us?” and “Why are we here?” Perhaps other religions do not reconcile the injustices of life with a fair and just Creator. Perhaps we find hypocrisy in the clergy, untenable tenets of faith in the canon, or corruption in the scripture. Whatever the reason, we perceive shortcomings in the religions of our exposure, and look elsewhere. And the ultimate “elsewhere” is Islam.

Now, Muslims would not like to hear me say that Islam is the “ultimate elsewhere.” But it is. Despite the fact that Muslims comprise one-fourth to one-fifth of the world’s population, non-Muslim media smears Islam with such horrible slanders that few non-Muslims view the religion in a positive light. Hence, it is normally the last religion seekers investigate.

Another problem is that by the time non-Muslims examine Islam, other religions have typically heightened their skepticism: If every “God-given” scripture we have ever seen is corrupt, how can the Islamic scripture be different? If charlatans have manipulated religions to suit their desires, how can we imagine the same not to have happened with Islam?

The answer can be given in a few lines, but takes books to explain. The short answer is this: There is a God. He is fair and just, and He wants us to achieve the reward of paradise. However, God has placed us in this worldly life as a test, to weed out the worthy from the unworthy. And we will be lost if left to our own devices. Why? Because we don’t know what He wants from us. We can’t navigate the twists and turns of this life without His guidance, and hence, He has given us guidance in the form of revelation.

Sure, previous religions have been corrupted, and that is one of the reasons why we have a chain of revelation. Ask yourself: wouldn’t God send another revelation if the preceding scriptures were impure? If preceding scriptures were corrupted, humans would need another revelation, to keep upon the straight path of His design.

So we should expect preceding scriptures to be corrupted, and we should expect the final revelation to be pure and unadulterated,for we cannot imagine a loving God leaving us astray. What we can imagine is God giving us a scripture, and men corrupting it; God giving us another scripture, and men corrupting it again … and again, and again. Until God sends a final revelation He promises to preserve until the end of time.

Muslims consider this final revelation to be the Holy Quran. You consider it … worth looking into. So let us return to the title of this article: Why Islam? Why should we believe that Islam is the religion of truth, the religion that possesses the pure and final revelation?

“Oh, just trust me.”

Now, how many times have you heard that line? A famous comedian used to joke that people of different cities cuss one another out in different ways. In Chicago, they cuss a person out this way, in Los Angeles they cuss a person out that way, but in New York they just say, “Trust me.”

So don’t trust me—trust our Creator. Read the Quran, read books and study good websites. But whatever you do, get started, take it seriously, and pray for our Creator to guide you.

Your life may not depend on it, but your soul most definitely does.

By Laurence B. Brown, MD
http://www.islamreligion.com/articles/496/

Why Do Muslims Claim That They Are More Worthy Followers of Jesus (PBUH)

2009-06-29T00:52:00.000-07:00

To test love is to prove it in actions. Christians claim to love

Jesus, but do not follow any of his¹²⁶ teachings and actions.

Muslims truly love Jesus (pbuh), whereas Christians only pay lip

service and do nothing practically. First and foremost, Muslims accept

the first Commandment that Jesus preached, i.e. “Your Lord God is

One”, and “Follow the Law”. A few more examples:

1. Muslims wash their face, hands, and feet before praying, as Moses

(pbuh) and Jesus (pbut) did. Christians don’t. Refer Exodus 40: 31-32 ¹²⁷

2. Muslims remove their shoes, (refer Exodus 3:5) cover their heads

and enter the place of worship. Christians worship with their shoes on

and remove their hats.

3. Muslims prostrate on their faces, and pray as Jesus (pbuh) ¹²⁸ did

in the Garden of Gethsemane when he beseeched God to save him.

Christians don’t. They sit on seats / pews in Churches and singsongs.

4. Muslims never eat pork as Jesus (pbuh) also never ate pork.

‘Christians’ do. It is one of their favorite dishes.

‘And all the devils besought him, saying, send us into the swine, that

we may enter into them.13-And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And

the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: Mark chap 5,

v. 12 & 13

5. Muslims wash their hands before eating just as Jesus (pbuh) used

to do. Refer Mark chap 7 verse 5. Christians very seldom do.

6. Muslim males circumcise just as Jesus (pbuh) was circumcised. This

is a covenant of God with Prophet Abraham for all time. Christian

males don’t circumcise.

7. Muslims fast a whole lunar month each year. Jesus (pbuh) also

fasted, Christians don’t. Jesus (pbuh) said in: Matt 5 v. 6, ‘Blessed are

they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness’

8. Muslim Mosques (Arabic: Masjid) do not have any “Graven

Images¹²⁹” as was the case wherein Jesus (pbuh) prayed. Christian

Churches are full of graven images as well as paintings of cherubim

etc that is contrary to the teachings of Jesus (pbuh). A new trend has

emerged amongst Christians at the present time. They hang crosses in

their cars, wear neck chains with crosses and are even worshipping

the crosses. Yet there are more than twenty-four verses condemning the

worshipping of ‘graven images’ as the statues and crosses. They have photos

of a man that they claim is Jesus (pbuh), and hang them in Churches and

their homes.

Question: as there were no cameras 2,000 years ago what proof has the

Church that the photo is really of Jesus (pbuh)? This photo is a concoction of

someone’s imagination and is a money-spinner, just as the Bible is revised

and re-revised continuously to make money. Allah has warned them in the

Qur’aan about this money making game in Chap 2 verse 79!

9. Majority of Muslim males keep beards. Majority of Christians don’t.

The Sheikhs and Alims wear the long white robes as Jesus (pbuh) did,

but the priests do not. (If Jesus (pbuh) wanted to enter the USA, he

will definitely be barred, branded as a terrorist by mad George Bush

because he will be dressed and look as a Muslim).

10. Muslims bury their dead within 24 hours as Jesus (pbuh) taught.

The burial is simple as the body is wrapped in a white cloth and put

into the ground. Christians keep the body in cold storage for days,

and put the body into a coffin and then bury. Waste of time and

money.

The above is proof that Muslims love Jesus (pbuh) more than the

Christians as Muslims adhere to the pure teachings of Jesus (pbuh)!

Muslim women cover their heads especially when praying. Even the

Bible commands this in –“1 COR 11:5- But every woman that prayeth

or prophesied with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for

that is even all one as if she were shaven”. Christian women do not

wear head covering. (Except Nuns)

If the ‘born again Christians’ claim that they are more worthy

followers of Jesus (pbuh) than Muslims, then they must prove it by

obeying the instruction in Mark chap 16, vs. Mark17-“And these signs

shall follow them that believe… Mark 5: 18: They shall take up

serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them;

they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover”.

You can bet your boots they will never do it!

Foot notes:

126 They follow all of Paul’s teachings, who was an avowed enemy to Jesus (pbuh)

127 This washing of the face, hands etc is corresponds to : Qur’aan ch 5, v 7.

128 All Prophets fell on their faces and prayed. Refer to the following in the Bible

(a) Genesis 17:3. (b) Numbers 20:6. (c) Joshua 5:14. (d) Matt 26:39.

129 The following chaps & verses all warn against Graven Images: LEV 26:1 DEUT 4:16,

DEUT 4:23 DEUT 4:25 DEUT 5:8 DEUT 7:5., DEUT 7:25 DEUT 12:3 DEUT 27:15,

2CHRON 34:7, PS 78:58., IS 21:9 , IS 30:22, IS 42:8 , IS 42:17 IS 44:9., IS 44:10 IS 44:15., IS

45:20 Assemble yourselves and come; draw near together, ye that are escaped of the

nations: they have no knowledge that set up the wood of their graven image, and pray

unto a god that cannot save. JER 8:19, JER 10:14, JER 50:38, JER 51:17 JER 51:47, JER

51:52. HOS 11:2., MIC 1:7 MIC 5:13 NAHUM 1:14 , HAB 2:18 In the New testament:

ACTS 17:29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that

the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.

The Core of Islam

2009-06-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Among the blessings and favors that God has bestowed upon humanity is that He endowed them with an innate ability to recognize and acknowledge His existence.

He placed this awareness deep in their hearts as a natural disposition that has not changed since human beings were first created.

Furthermore, He reinforced this natural disposition with the signs that he placed in creation that testify to His existence.

However, since it is not possible for human beings to have a detailed knowledge of God except through revelation from Himself, God sent His Messengers to teach the people about their Creator who they must worship.

These Messengers also brought with them the details of how to worship God, because such details cannot be known except by way of revelation.

These two fundamentals were the most important things that the Messengers of all the divine revelations brought with them from God. On this basis, all the divine revelations have had the same lofty objectives, which are:

1. To affirm the Oneness of God - the praised and glorified Creator – in His essence and His attributes.

2. To affirm that God alone should be worshipped and that no other being should be worshipped along with Him or instead of Him.

3. To safeguard human welfare and oppose corruption and evil. Thus, everything that safeguards faith, life, reason, wealth and lineage are part of this human welfare that religion protects. On the other hand, anything that endangers these five universal needs is a form of corruption that religion opposes and prohibits.

4. To invite the people to the highest level of virtue, moral values, and noble customs.

The ultimate goal of every Divine Message has always been the same: to guide the people to God, to make them aware of Him, and to have them worship Him alone.

Each Divine Message came to strengthen this meaning, and the following words were repeated on the tongues of all the Messengers: “Worship God, you have no god other than Him.”

This message was conveyed to humanity by prophets and messengers which God sent to every nation. All of these messengers came with this same message, the message of Islam.

All the Divine Messages came to bring the life of the people into willing submission to God. For this reason, they all share the name of “Islam”, or “submission” derived from the same word as “Salam”, or “peace”, in Arabic. Islam, in this sense, was the religion of all the prophets, but why does one see different variations of the religion of God if they all emanated from the same source? The answer is twofold.

The first reason is that as a result of the passage of time, and due to the fact that previous religions were not under the Divine protection of God, they underwent much change and variation. As a result, we see that the fundamental truths which were brought by all messengers now differ from one religion to another, the most apparent being the strict tenet of the belief and worship of God and God alone.

The second reason for this variation is that God, in His infinite Wisdom and eternal Will, decreed that all the divine missions prior to the final message of Islam brought by Muhammad, may God praise him, be limited to a specific time frame. As a result, their laws and methodologies dealt with the specific conditions of the people whom they had been sent to address.

Humanity has passed through numerous periods of guidance, misguidance, integrity, and deviation, from the most primitive age to the heights of civilization. Divine guidance accompanied humanity through all of this, always providing the appropriate solutions and remedies.

This was the essence of the disparity that existed between the different religions. This disagreement never went beyond the particulars of the Divine Law. Each manifestation of the Law addressed the particular problems of the people it was meant for.

However, the areas of agreement were significant and many, such as fundamentals of faith; the basic principles and objectives of the Divine Law, such as protecting faith, life, reason, wealth, and lineage and establishing justice in the land; and certain fundamental prohibitions, some of the most important of these being idolatry, fornication, murder, theft, and giving false witness.

Moreover, they also agreed upon moral virtues like honesty, justice, charity, kindness, chastity, righteousness, and mercy. These principles as well as others are permanent and lasting; they are the essence of all the Divine Messages and bind them all together.

The Purpose of Life

2009-06-26T07:39:00.000-07:00

At times we wonder, what is the purpose of our lives? Why are we here? What should our life achieve? Why few people are referred as ‘Great’? Who told them their purpose of life?

Then we try to search the purpose of our existence.

And in some time, we give up. We tell ourselves, “I’m here just to live!”

Human is born with an objective. One needs to define the purpose of his life.

Well, why are we here? To amass fame and fortune? To make music and babies? To be the richest man or woman in the graveyard for, as we are jokingly told, “He who dies with the most toys wins?”

No, there must be more to life than that, so let’s think about this. To begin with, look around you. Unless you live in a cave, you are surrounded by things we humans have made with our own hands. Now, why did we make those things? The answer, of course, is that we make things to perform some specific function for us. In short, we make things to serve us. So by extension, why did God make us, if not to serve Him?

If we acknowledge our Creator, and that He created humankind to serve Him, the next question is, “How? How do we serve Him?” No doubt, this question is best answered by the One who made us. If He created us to serve Him, then He expects us to function in a particular manner, if we are to achieve our purpose. But how can we know what that manner is? How can we know what God expects from us?

Well, consider this: God gave us light, by which we can find our way. Even at night, we have the moon for light and the stars for navigation. God gave other animals guidance systems best suited for their conditions and needs. Migrating birds can navigate, even on overcast days, by how light is polarized as it passes through the clouds. Whales migrate by “reading” the Earth’s magnetic fields. Salmon return from the open ocean to spawn at the exact spot of their birth by smell, if that can be imagined. Fish sense distant movements through pressure receptors that line their bodies. Bats and blind river dolphins “see” by sonar. Certain marine organisms (the electric eel being a high-voltage example) generate and “read” magnetic fields, allowing them to “see” in muddy waters, or in the blackness of ocean depths. Insects communicate by pheromones. Plants sense sunlight and grow towards it (phototrophism); their roots sense gravity and grow into the earth (geotrophism).

In short, God has gifted every element of His creation with guidance. Can we seriously believe he would not give us guidance on the one most important aspect of our existence, namely our raison d’etre—our reason for being? That he would not give us the tools by which to achieve salvation?

And would this guidance not be . . . revelation?

Think of it this way: Every product has specifications and rules. For more complex products, whose specifications and rules are not intuitive, we rely upon owner’s manuals. These manuals are written by the one who knows the product best, which is to say the manufacturer. A typical owner’s manual begins with warnings about improper use and the hazardous consequences thereof, moves on to a description of how to use the product properly and the benefits to be gained thereby, and provides product specifications and a troubleshooting guide whereby we can correct product malfunctions.

Now, how is that different from revelation?

Revelation tells us what to do, what not to do and why, tells us what God expects of us, and shows us how to correct our deficiencies. Revelation is the ultimate user’s manual, provided as guidance to the one who will use us—ourselves.

In the world we know, products that meet or exceed specifications are considered successes whereas those that don’t are … hmm … let’s think about this. Any product that fails to meet factory specifications is either repaired or, if hopeless, recycled. In other words, destroyed. Ouch. Suddenly this discussion turns scary-serious. Because in this discussion, we are the product—the product of creation.

But let’s pause for a moment and consider how we interact with the various items that fill our lives. As long as they do what we want, we’re happy with them. But when they fail us, we get rid of them. Some are returned to the store, some donated to charity, but eventually they all end up in the garbage, which gets … buried or burned. Similarly, an underperforming employee gets … fired. Now, stop for a minute and think about that word. Where did that euphemism for the punishment due to an underperformer come from? Hmm … the person who believes the lessons of this life translate into lessons about religion could have a field day with this.

But that doesn’t mean these analogies are invalid. Just the opposite, we should remember that both Old and New Testaments are filled with analogies, and Jesus Christ taught using parables.

So perhaps we had better take this seriously.

No, I stand corrected. Most definitely we should take this seriously. Nobody ever considered the difference between heavenly delights and the tortures of hellfire a laughing matter.

Where is God

2009-06-26T05:29:00.000-07:00

Now and again human beings are prompted to ask themselves some of life’s truly profound questions. In the quiet darkness of the night, when far off stars twinkle in the vast, majestic sky, or in the cold, hard, light of day when life rushes past like a speeding train, people of all colours, races and creeds wonder about the meaning of their existence. Why are we here? What does this all mean? Is this all there is?

On magnificent days filled with sunshine and iridescent blue skies, people turn their faces into the sun and contemplate the miraculous. In the deepest winter or the wildest storm, they ponder the strength inherent in the forces of nature. Somewhere in the deep recesses of the mind, the concept of God arises. The wonders of creation are a call to the heart and the soul. The gentle touch of a snowflake, the smell of freshly cut lawn, the soft patter of raindrops and fierce wind of a hurricane are all reminders that this world is full of wonder.

When pain and sadness threaten to engulf us, human beings are again prompted to contemplate the meaning of life. In the midst of suffering and grief, the concept of God arises. Even those who would consider themselves far from religion or spiritual belief find themselves looking skywards and pleading for help. When the heart constricts and fear swamps us, we turn helplessly towards some sort of higher power. The concept of a God then becomes real and meaningful.

In the midst of pleading and bargaining, the sheer vastness of the universe is laid bare. The signs of a Creator open before us and we cringe at the power and the strength that is now obvious. The reality of life is filled with awe and wonder. It is a rollercoaster ride. There are moments of great joy, and periods of immense sadness. Life can be long and monotonous or it can be carefree. As God arises and His majesty is clear, more questions begin to take shape. One question that inevitably comes to mind is – where is God?

Around the world and down through the ages people have struggled to come to terms with the question of where God is. The human inclination is to search for God. The ancient Babylonians and Egyptians built lofty towers in their search for God. The Persians looked for Him in fire. Still other, such as the indigenous people of North America and the Celtic people looked for God in the glorious signs of nature around them. Buddhists find God in themselves, and in the Hindu religion, God is believed to be in every place and in everything.

The quest for God can be confusing. When posing the question where is God, the resulting answers can also be confusing. God is everywhere. God is in your heart. God is where goodness and beauty exist. What happens however, when your heart is empty and your surroundings are dismal, dirty, and ugly? Does God cease to exist? No! Of course not! Amidst this confusion, the Islamic concept of God is a beacon of light for those stumbling in the darkness.

What Muslims believe about God is clear-cut and simple. They do not believe that God is everywhere; they believe that God is above the heavens. The human need to turn our faces towards the sky in times of trouble and strife is an inherent answer to the question, where is God? God tells us in the Quran that He is the Most High (Quran 2:255) and that He is above all His Creation.

“He it is Who created the heavens and the earth in six Days and then rose over the Throne (in a manner that suits His Majesty). He knows what goes into the earth and what comes forth from it, what descends from the heaven and what ascends thereto. And He is with you (by His Knowledge) wheresoever you may be. And God is the All-Seer of what you do.” (Quran 57:4)

Prophet Muhammad was known to point towards the sky when referring to God. When making supplication to God he raised his hands towards the heavens. During his Farewell sermon, Prophet Muhammad asked the people, “Have I not conveyed the message?” and they said, “Yes!” He asked again, “Have I not conveyed the message?” and they said, “Yes!” He asked a third time, “Have I not conveyed the message?” and they said “Yes!” Each time, he said, “O God, bear witness!” - at the same time pointing up to the sky and then at the people.[1]

God is above the heavens, above His creation. This however does not mean that He is contained by any sort of physical dimensions. God is close, very close, to those who believe in Him and He answers their every call. God knows all of our secrets, dreams, and wishes, nothing is hidden from Him. God is with His creation by His knowledge and power. God is the Creator and the Sustainer. Nothing comes into existence except by His will.

When Muslims marvel at the wonders of the universe they are secure in the knowledge that God, the Most High, is above the heavens, and comforted by the fact that He is with them in all their affairs. When a Muslim is struck by loss or grief, he does not question God’s wisdom, or ask the question, where was God when I was sad, or grieving or suffering? Humankind was created to worship God, (Quran 56:51) and God said many times that trials and tribulations would be part of our life experience.

“And He it is Who has created the heavens and the earth in six Days ...that He might try you, which of you is the best in deeds.” (Quran 11:7)

In their blackest night, or their darkest hour humankind instinctively looks towards the sky. When their hearts beat heavily and fear threatens to overwhelm them, people turn to God. They raise their hands and beg for mercy, forgiveness, or kindness, and God responds; For He is the Most Merciful, the Most Forgiving and the Most Kind. God is distinct and separate from His creation, and there is nothing like Him. He is All Hearing and All seeing. (Quran 42:11) Hence when we ask the question where is God, the answer is undoubtedly, He is above the heavens.

Footnotes:

[1] The text of the Farewell Sermon can be found in Saheeh Bukhari and Saheeh Muslim, and in the books of At Tirmidhi and Imam Ahmad.

Holy Water

2009-06-24T04:39:00.000-07:00

Pada hari ini sekiranya ditanya orang-orang melayu di malaysia "apakah itu holy water," nescaya majoriti mereka akan menjawab ianya satu jenis air yang digunakan oleh mubaligh2 kristian untuk memurtadkan orang2 Islam.

Mereka yang meminum atau terminum holy water akan kelu lidah dan tidak boleh mengucapkan 2 kalimah syahadah.

Kisah ini kelihatan seolah2 "mutawatir" kerana ia disebarkan di merata-rata termasuk di internet, sms, dan di masjid2 dan surau2. Ini menyebabkan majoriti masyarakat melayu menganggap ianya benar, sedangkan kisah ini tidak diketahui dari mana sumber asalnya.
Malah terdapat juga email2 yg disebarkan yg mengatakan mineral water berjenama ***** mengandungi holy water... ia seolah2 menjadi satu strategi untuk mensabotaj perniagaan orang2 tertentu.

Suatu masa dahulu, saya dan rakan2 selalu ke gereja untuk menghadiri "usrah" agama kristian. Hampir setiap minggu kami ke sana. Kami telah makan dan minum segala yang dihidangkan selagimana pada zahirnya makanan2 tersebut adalah halal.

Namun, kami masih lagi kekal dalam akidah Islam. Kami merasa lebih menghargai keindahan dan 'kelogikan' agama Islam jika dibandingkan dengan agama lain. Malah, kehadiran kami di sana cukup memeningkan kepala pihak mereka yang sedang berusaha dengan cukup gigih untuk mengkristiankan kami.

Mungkin mereka 'terlupa' memasukkan holy water dalam makanan dan minuman kami.

Pada hari ini kita dapat melihat seolah-olah masyarakat kita dididik untuk percaya kepada khabar angin. Kemudian khabar angin itu disebarkan sehingga setiap orang memperkatakan tentang khabar angin tersebut. Lalu, masyarakat menganggapnya seolah-olah "mutawatir" sedangkan khabar itu datang dari hanya satu sumber, atau tidak diketahui dari mana sumbernya.

Ini berlaku dalam pelbagai isu termasuk isu agama, politik, isu semasa, hiburan dan sebagainya.
Sebagai seorang muslim, kita seharusnya mendidik diri kita untuk kritikal terhadap setiap maklumat yang kita terima.

"Hai orang-orang yang beriman, jika datang kepadamu orang fasik membawa suatu berita, maka periksalah dengan teliti, agar kamu tidak menimpakan suatu musibah kepada suatu kaum tanpa mengetahui keadaannya yang menyebabkan kamu menyesal atas perbuatanmu itu."
[al-Hujurat 49:6]

Dalam isu holy water ini, cuba kita berfikir secara kritikal...

1) Adakah Allah tidak adil?

Seseorang hanya boleh murtad hanya kerana terminum holy water, lalu diazab oleh Allah di neraka. Ini bercanggah dengan ajaran Islam. Firman Allah:

Katakanlah: "Hai manusia, sesungguhnya telah datang kepadamu kebenaran (Al Qur'an) dari Tuhanmu, sebab itu barangsiapa yang mendapat petunjuk maka sesungguhnya (petunjuk itu) untuk kebaikan dirinya sendiri. Dan barangsiapa yang sesat, maka sesungguhnya kesesatannya itu mencelakakan dirinya sendiri. Dan aku bukanlah seorang penjaga terhadap dirimu". (Yunus 10:108)

2) Holy water hanya ada di Malaysia?

Kisah gerakan kristian bagi memurtadkan orang2 Islam dengan menggunakan holy waterini hanya boleh didengari di Malaysia sahaja.

Malaysia bukanlah negara besar. Sekiranya cara ini efektif, mengapa ia tidak digunakan di negara2 lain? Mengapa kisah ini hanya tersebar di sini?

3) Amerika tidak perlu bom Iraq.

Amerika telah membelanjakan bertrillion USD bagi menakluk Iraq dan Afghanistan.

Sepatutnya, mereka tidak perlu melakukan semua itu. Apa yang mereka perlu lakukan hanyalah memasukkan holy water dalam empangan2 di Iraq, lalu semua tentera, rakyat dan pemimpin Iraq memeluk agama kristian. Oleh itu, tentera2 amerika boleh masuk ke dalam Iraq dengan aman.

4) Orang Kristian tidak cerdik

Kisah2 orang yang murtad disebabkan oleh holy water yang tersebar hanyalah berkisar tentang orang2 Islam biasa.

Seharusnya orang2 kristian mensasarkan kepada orang2 Islam yang besar, terutama dari kalangan para ulama. Mungkin mereka hanya perlu memasukkan holy water ke dalam minuman atau makanan Yusuf al-Qaradhawi, Said Ramadhan al-Buti, Wahbah a-Zuhaily, Harussani dsb, kemudian berkata "Tengok... you punye scholars pun dah masuk kristian.. you bila lagi??"

5) Bagaimana pula paderi2 yang memeluk Islam?

Sebagaimana yang kita ketahui, terdapat ramai bekas2 paderi kristian telah memeluk Islam. Mereka telah pun minum bergelen-gelen holy water.

Namun, lidah mereka masih lagi tidak kelu mengucapkan 2 kalimah syahadah. Malah, tidak kurang juga dari kalangan mereka yang telah menjadi pendakwah2 Islam yang hebat!

Banyak lagi kecelaruan dalam kisah holy water ini.

Saya berasa sangat kecewa kerana sehingga hari ini saya masih lagi menerima email2 tentang dakyah holy water ini.

Berhati-hatilah sebelum memforwardkan email yang anda terima. Mungkin niat anda baik. Tapi ingatlah hadis Nabi SAW berikut:

“Cukuplah menjadi satu dosa bagi seseorang
yang menceritakan segala yang dia dengari
(tanpa mengkaji benar atau tidak)”
[Sahih Muslim, 5]

Sumber: ifirrr.blogspot.com

Sharks In Your Life

2009-06-24T04:01:00.000-07:00

The Japanese have always loved fresh fish. But the waters close to Japan have not held many fish for decades.

So to feed the Japanese population, fishing boats got bigger and went farther than ever. The farther the fishermen went, the longer it took to bring in the fish. If the return trip took more than a few days, the fish were not fresh. The Japanese did not like the taste.

To solve this problem, fishing companies installed freezers on their boats. They would catch the fish and freeze them at sea. Freezers allowed the boats to go farther and stay longer. However, the Japanese could taste the difference between fresh and frozen and they did not like frozen fish. The frozen fish brought a lower price.

So fishing companies installed fish tanks. They would catch the fish and stuff them in the tanks. After a little thrashing around, the fish stopped moving. They were tired and dull, but alive. Unfortunately, the Japanese could still taste the difference. Because the fish did not move for days, they lost their fresh-fish taste.

The Japanese preferred the lively taste of fresh fish, not sluggish fish. So how did Japanese fishing companies solve this problem? How do they get fresh-tasting fish to Japan? How Japanese managed to keep the fish fresh?

To keep the fish tasting fresh, the Japanese fishing companies still put the fish in the tanks. But now they add a small shark to each tank. The shark eats a few fish, but most of the fish arrive in a very lively state. The fish are challenged.

Have you realized that some of us are also living in a pond but most of the time tired & dull, so we need a Shark in our life to keep us awake and moving? Basically in our lives Sharks are new challenges to keep us active and taste better….. The more intelligent, persistent and competent you are, the more you enjoy a challenge.

If your challenges are the correct size, and if you are steadily conquering those challenges, you are Conqueror.. You think of your challenges and get energized. You are excited to try new solutions. You have fun. You are alive!

Recommendations for us:

Instead of avoiding challenges, jump into them. Beat the heck out of them. Enjoy the game. If your challenges are too large or too numerous, do not give up. Failing makes you tired. Instead, reorganize. Find more determination, more knowledge, more help.

God didn’t promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but he did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears and light for the way.

Disappointments are like road bumps, they slow you down a bit but you enjoy the smooth road afterwards.. Don’t stay on the bumps too long. Move on!

When you feel down because you didn’t get what you want, just sit tight and be happy, because God has thought of something better to give you.

When something happens to you, good or bad, consider what it means. There’s a purpose to life’s events, to teach you how to laugh more or not to cry too hard.

No one can go back and make a brand new start. But anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.

Are Muslims Baptized?

2009-06-20T17:12:00.000-07:00

Question:

As we are all are born with the original sin and need to be baptized, how do Muslims seek salvation? How do you baptize your children?

Sarah - United Kingdom

Answer:

Salaam Sarah,

Thank you for your question.

One of the fundamental distinctions between Islam and Christianity lies in their view of the relationship between body and soul. This also indirectly reveals a difference in the value they both give to water!

Where Islam assumes a unity of body and soul, along with an original innocence that does not require ritual salvation, but one based on deeds and individual accountability, Christian philosophy sees the two as independent entities. Inspired by Plato’s philosophy of dualism, it conceives of a rational, controllable mind or soul, as well as a body that is governed by blind necessity and that cannot always be kept in check by the mind.

The idea of separation of body and soul was adopted by the Church and strongly dominated the ideology of early Christian ascetics. They believed physical suffering and deprivation would purify the spirit and bring the faithful closer to Christ, leading to decidedly questionable ideas about purity and cleanliness.

Saints of early Christianity boasted that water had never touched their feet except when they had had to wade across a stream… St. Jerome also denounced bathing as a pagan practice and affirmed that: “He who has bathed in Christ [i.e. has been baptized] does not need a second bath.”

This abhorrence of bathing and everything related to it persisted far into the Middle Ages and went beyond the realms of the clergy. During the Spanish Reconquista of the fifteenth century, Queen Isabella famously declared she would not change her robe until Granada fell. Given that the siege lasted eight months, one can imagine the odor that surrounded the pious Catholic Queen…

As for Islam, the unity of body and soul meant regular ablution and bathing, as a religious requirement linked to the very notion of worship…

Christian baptism, in which newborn babies - or adults - are blessed by holy water and accepted into the Church, also reveals a different view of water in the two religions. In Islam, all water is pure and sent as a gift from Allah. This is repeated many times in the Qur’an, as in Surah 77, verse 27:

*{We provided you with sweet water}*

According to Islam, all water - as long as it is mutlaq (absolutely natural, free from impurities) - can be used for ablution.

The “holy” water that is used in Christian baptism is of a different nature; it is not just any water, but water that has been blessed in the name of Christ… This blessing gives the water a special quality, an added value that sets it apart and elevates it above other water.

Records from the early Church Fathers show that “holy” water was believed to chase away evil spirits and cure a variety of illnesses. Many Christians kept baptismal water in their houses throughout the year, or else used it to water their fields, vineyards and gardens.

As for Islamic doctrine, it ascribes purity to all water. The Qur’an says in Surah 22, verse 5:

*{And you see the land dried up, but when We send down water upon it, it trembles, and swells, and grows…}*

Also, wudu’ (ablution before prayers) and ghusl (bathing from physical impurity, as monthly menstruation or marital sexual intercourse, etc.) are both part of the act of worship, rituals that are mandatory to perform prayers. As such, these rituals include a spiritual component, which means that even if one is physically clean, but has not carried out the purification in ritual fashion, he/she is not permitted to pray.

Still, this prohibition has nothing to do with physical purity - whether one has clean feet or whether one might stain the ground he/she will stand on to pray, for example. It is purely a question of reverence towards the idea of standing to pray to Allah.

Thus, physical purity alone does not suffice to arrive at a state of tahara, ritual purity. Ablution should not be carried out mechanically, but only after neyya (intention), the silent expression of sincerity and obedience to Allah.

This is the spiritual component of the purification ritual: while the body is purified with water, the mind must be completely focused on Allah. Carrying out wudu’ or ghusl, simply for refreshment in hot weather, for example, makes it a secular act not a part of a Muslim worship…

The physical and spiritual components of the purification ritual reflect the Islamic principle of tawhid (oneness): body and mind should be united in the performance of religious duties, to become one… worshiping Allah, the One and Only. Islam means “surrendering to Allah”, and Muslims, “those who have surrendered to Allah”, do so with body and soul.

An inscription in the baths of Granada’s old Moorish Quarter expresses this link between physical and spiritual purity. It says that the body is the mirror of the soul, and therefore “outer stains suggest inner ones as well.”

There are two types of purification by water in Islam. Wudu’, the minor purification carried out before prayer, consists of washing the hands, the face, the forearms, the feet and sweeping by the head. The hadiths explain that by performing wudu’ the believer kind of washes away sin.

The process of wudu’ is described in a very physical way, as though the sin were a visible stain, an insidious little demon that clings to the believer and can only be chased away with water!! Thus when a believer washes his face during wudu’, it is said that every sin that he/she contemplated with his/her eyes, is washed away from his/her face with the last drop of water; when he/she washes his/her hands, every sin they wrought is effaced; and when he/she washes his/her feet, every sin toward which his/her feet have walked, is washed away, until he/she comes out pure of all sins.

As for ghusl, it is the major purification, which cleanses the whole body from impurities and is required after sexual intercourse, menstruation, childbirth, before adopting Islam, and after death. Also, it is recommended before important celebrations and during hajj (pilgrimage). Muhammad (pbuh) advised his followers to bath at least every Friday, clean their body, cut their fingernails and add nice scents to their hair and clothes.

Much can be said about how the notion of original innocence was also reflected in a close relation between the Muslim and nature. We live on earth not because we left paradise… but because we were destined to live on it! And, we enjoy its purity and use its waters to purify our bodies and soul in daily life…

As there is no concept of incarnation or embodiment in the notion of divinity in Islam, water is a blessing. It is not sacralized by human words, but by the initial creation of it by Allah.

We can use this issue to explore the core of Tawhid – oneness and transcendence of God - but this is a very vast issue that needs separate elaboration.

Thank you and please keep in touch.

Salaam.

Islam and Christianity; Common Grounds…

2009-06-20T16:50:00.000-07:00

Question:

Can you tell us if the rules of Islam and Christianity have any similarities. If they have, can you tell me what they are?

Thanks.

Smemily - Cyprus

Answer:

Salaam (Peace) Smemily,

Thank you very much for your question.

In fact there is a lot of common ground between Islam and Christianity. You may know that the three religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam are usually called the Semitic religions; because their prophets were all Semites, they spoke Semitic languages, and they lived in the same Middle Eastern lands.

Prophet Abraham (Ibraheem - peace be upon him) is considered the father of all the Middle Eastern Peoples, and all the three religions respect him as their Patriarch. Indeed Islam considers all the prophets mentioned in the Bible as prophets of Islam, though the Holy Qur’an mentions by name only twenty five of them.

Thus, Abraham, Noah, Moses, David, Solomon and Jesus (peace be upon them all) are the prophets of Islam. The distinction of Muhammad (peace be on him) is simply that he was the Last of the Prophets.

The most basic article of faith for the Muslims as well as the Christians is belief in God, the Omnipotent Omniscient Creator of the universe. But there is a major difference here. While the Muslims believe that God is One and Only, the Christians hold that there are “three persons in One God”. According to Muslims, this is nothing but polytheism.

Christians hold “God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost” as three persons in One God. So they say that Jesus Christ was full God and full man. The Muslims would reject this belief, citing verses from the Christian Bible itself.

For example, Muslims would whole-heartedly accept the first and the second commandments Jesus mentioned to a scribe quoted below. See Mark 12:

28 - And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, which is the first commandment of all?
29 - And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is One Lord:
30 - And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
31 - And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.

Moreover Jesus also said:

"....my Father is greater than I." (John 14:28)

Jesus says here that God is greater than he. So it is clear that he cannot be God. If he were God, how could he say he is less than God, or God is greater than he?

Another point to be noted is that the Muslims believe that all humans are born innocent; but the Christian belief is that all humans are born sinful. This Christian belief is based on the idea that Adam’s sin of disobedience – known as the “Original Sin” - to God is borne by all his children. So, they are all liable to be punished by God, unless they believe that God sent His own son – who is Jesus - to atone for that sin.

Muslims consider this idea incompatible with divine justice. They point out that this belief is a later addition, which is not only not endorsed by Christ’s own teachings, but opposed to the mercy and justice of God, so much emphasized by all the prophets, but most particularly Jesus Christ himself.

In short, Muslims hold the view that God has been sending His prophets from the beginning of mankind on earth to lead them out of darkness into light. All these prophets taught the same message: “Peacefully submit to the One and Only God, and lead a life of virtue in this world to deserve the reward of Paradise in the hereafter.”

After Jesus’ time, a man called Saul of Tarsus - later known as St Paul - came and declared himself “the Apostle to the Gentiles”, and misled many of Jesus’ followers to accept the polytheistic ideas which are now part of present-day Christianity.

Muhammad, the Last Prophet (peace be upon him) came to restore and complete the true religion of God, taught by Jesus and all other prophets before him. So, he did not teach a new religion; he restored the same old religion of unconditional and peaceful obedience to God Almighty, taught by all the prophets, including Abraham, Moses and Jesus (peace be upon them all). And this is Islam.

And God knows best.
Thank you again for your question and please keep in touch.

Salaam.

Allah Moon God

2009-06-20T06:31:00.000-07:00

"And from among His Signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. Do not bow down (prostrate) to the sun nor to the moon, but only bow down (prostrate) to "Allah" Who created them, if you (really) worship Him."
[Holy Quran 41:37]

The Christian acquaintance who sent me a copy of Morey's booklet also sent me five questions related to this subject. I will attempt to answer them below:

Question 1:
What is the significance of the crescent moon in Islam?

Answer:
The crescent moon and star often seen on mosques and Islamic archecture is actually a symbol of the last rulers of the Muslims called the Ottoman Empire. The Qur'ân answers this question before you asked it. Read this verse:

"They ask you about the new moons. Say: These are signs to mark fixed periods of time for mankind and for the pilgrimage."
[Holy Quran 2:189]

Question 2:
Why does Islam follow a lunar calendar?

Answer:
Jewish and early Christians also followed the lunar calendar as do many farmers even today. There are some very practical reasons for this. However, Islam makes it clear there is no worship of the moon, only that we use the moons shape and position to determine the months and occassions. In both the Bible and the Qur'ân religious festivals are regulated by the lunar calendar. Jews and Muslims have kept to these regulations which they believe to be from God. Modern day Christianity follows the solar calendar because it was instituted by the Roman emporer Constantine at the council of Nicaea in 325 A.D.

Question 3:
Why is the feast of Ramadan marked by the appearance of the crescent moon?

Answer:
I think you mean the fast of Ramadan. God commanded Muslims in the Qur'ân to fast from dawn to sunset during the month called Ramadan (see Qur'ân 2:185, 187). The beginning and end of the month is determined by the crescent (2:189) based on the instruction of God's Messenger, on whom be peace.

Why this method and not another is not for us to say but for God and His Messenger to prescribe. However, I find it an efficient method. It is a universally applicable method, and it allows for Ramadan to move through all the seasons. This allows believers to have the pleasure of worshipping God by fasting in all the various seasons: one year in the summer, some years later in the winter.

Question 4:
Why does the Quran place the Sabeans on the same level with Jews and Christians when scholars have clearly proven that the Sabeans were involved in the moon cult?

Answer:
The Quran not has placed the Sabeans on the same level with Jews and Christians. Perhaps you have in mind the following verse:

"Those who believe and those who are Jews and Christians and Sabians, whoever believes in "Allah" and the Last Day and do righteous good deeds shall have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve."
[Holy Quran 2:62; also 5:69]

This verse, however, does not place the Sabeans on the same level as the Jews and Christians except in a particular context. The verse speaks of four distinct communities, and offers all four the opportunity to fear not nor grieve if only they would believe in "Allah" and the Last Day and do right. The four communities are:

The Believers (i.e., the Muslims)
The Jews
The Christians
The Sabeans

While they are all offered the same opportunity for improvement, nothing, is said in this verse about the validity of the existing faiths of these four communities. Otherwise the Jews and Christians who are criticized in the Quran for their deviations will not be placed on the same level with the believers. The matter becomes clear when you realise that believers here does not mean saved persons but those who ostensibly belong to the community of Muslims. They, as well as the other three groups, must do the following to be saved: believe in "Allah" , believe in the Last Day, and do right. Doing right, according to the Quran, includes following every teaching of Muhammad.

Question 5:
Did the Meccans worship the true God since they recognized "Allah" ?
Was "Allah" one of the gods of the Ka'bah?
And if so, where did the Meccans derive the recognition and the name of "Allah" from?

Answer:

First, "Allah" was not one of the 360 idols which were in the Ka'abah, although Morey has claimed this without evidence. When the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) entered Makkah victorious he went into the Ka'bah and broke the idols therein.

Second, the word "Allah" has been used all along for the name of "God" in the Arabic Bible for Jews and Christians alike. The proof is easy to verify; simple go to any hotel or motel on the earth and look in the drawer next to the bed and take out the complimentary Bible, placed there by the Giddeons and then look on page 5 or 6 where they list the examples of translations they have made into other languages. The second example given is for Arabic speakers. The verse is from the Gospel of John, chapter 3, verse 16. Everyone knows this one; "For God so loved the world...." and the word in Arabic for "God" is "Allah." Then if you have a Bible in Arabic, look on page one in Genesis, and you will find the word "Allah" 17 times.

More? www.GodAllah. com

Who is The Authors of The book of The Bible?

2009-06-20T06:24:00.000-07:00

Who is the author of "RUTH?"

Answer: "Not definitely known"

Who is the author of:

1ST SAMUEL?..... ....... Answer: Author "Unknown"
2ND SAMUEL...... ..... Answer: Author "Unknown"
1ST KING?....... ......... . Answer: Author "Unknown"
2ND KING?....... ........ Answer: Author "Unknown"
1st CHRONICLES? …. Answer: Author "Unknown, probably …"
2st CHRONICLES? …. Answer: Author "Likely collected …"

THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE

GENESIS
AUTHOR One of the "five
books of Moses."

EXODUS
AUTHOR Generally
credited to Moses.

LEVITICUS
AUTHOR Generally
credited to Moses.

NUMBERS
AUTHOR Generally
credited to Moses.

DEUTERONOMY
AUTHOR Generally
credited to Moses.

JOSHUA
AUTHOR. Major part
credited to Joshua.

JUDGES
AUTHOR. Possibly Samuel,

RUTH
AUTHOR. Not definitely known, perhaps Samuel.

FIRST SAMUEL
AUTHOR. Unknown.

SECOND SAMUEL
AUTHOR. Unknown.

FIRST KINGS
AUTHOR. Unknown.

SECOND KINGS
AUTHOR. Unknown.

FIRST CHRONICLES
AUTHOR. Unknown,
probably collected and
edited by Ezra.

SECOND CHRONICLES
AUTHOR. Likely collected
and edited by Ezra.

EZRA
AUTHOR. Probably written
or edited by Ezra.

ESTHER
AUTHOR. Unknown.

JOB
AUTHOR. Unknown.

PSALMS
AUTHOR. Principally David,
though there are other writers.

ECCLESIASTES
AUTHOR. Doubtful, but
commonly assigned to Solomon.

ISAIAH
AUTHOR. Mainly credited
to Isaiah. Parts may have been
written by others.

JONAH
AUTHOR. Unknown.

HABAKKUK
AUTHOR. Nothing known of
the place or time of his birth.

The above facts are from Collins' R.S.V. 1971. Pages 12-17.

And so the story goes. The authors of these anonymous books are either "UNKNOWN" or are "PROBABLY" or "LIKELY" or are of "DOUBTFUL" origin. Why blame God for this fiasco? The Long-suffering and Merciful God did not wait for two thousand years for Bible scholars to tell us that He was not the Author of Jewish peccadilloes, prides and prejudices; of their lusts, wranglings, jealousies and enormities. He said it openly what they do:-

DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN ATHEIST ZIONISM AND JUDAISM

2009-06-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

In the summer of 1982 there began a great savagery that caused the whole world to cry out in protest. The Israeli Army entered Lebanon in a sudden attack, and moved forward destroying every target that appeared before it. The Israelis surrounded the refugee camps, where Palestinians lived who had fled the Israeli occupation years before, and for two days used Lebanese Christian militias to slaughter innocent civilians. Within a few days, thousands of innocent people had been massacred.

This terrible Israeli terrorism outraged the whole world. The interesting thing, however, is that some of the protests came from Jews, even Israeli Jews. Professor Benjamin Cohen of Tel Aviv University penned a statement on June 6, 1982, saying:

I am writing to you while listening to a transistor that has just announced that 'we' are in the process of 'realizing our objectives' in Lebanon: to insure 'peace' for the residents of Galilee. These lies worthy of Goebbels make me mad. It is clear that this savage war, more barbaric than any of those preceding it, has nothing to do with the attempt in London or the security of Galilee ... Jews, sons of Abraham ... Jews, victims themselves of so much cruelty, how can they become so cruel? ... The greatest success of Zionism is the 'dejudaisation' of the Jews.1

Benjamin Cohen was not the only Israeli to oppose the Israeli occupation of Lebanon. Many Jewish intellectuals living in Israel condemned the savagery carried out by their own state.

This attitude was not restricted to the occupation of Lebanon. Israel’s oppression of the Palestinians, its insistence on its policy of occupation, and its links with the semi-fascist administrations in the former racist regime in South Africa had been criticized for many years by many prominent intellectuals in Israel. This Jewish criticism was aimed not just at the policies of Israel, but also at atheist Zionism, its official ideology.

This situation is the expression of a very important truth: Israel’s policy of occupation and state terrorism from 1967 up to the present stems from the ideology of atheist Zionism, and many Jews in the world are opposed to it.

For Muslims, therefore, the concepts that should be criticized are not Judaism or the Jewish race, but Godless Zionism. In the same way that an anti-Nazi can have no hatred for the German people, so he can have none for the Jewish race because he opposes atheist Zionism.
The Racist Roots of Atheist Zionism

After the Jews were expelled from Jerusalem in 70 AD, they began to spread to different parts of the world. During this period of the ‘diaspora,’ which lasted up to the 19th century, the vast majority of Jews saw themselves as a religious group. Over time, most Jews adopted the religion of the countries they lived in. Jews in Germany, for example, began to speak German, and those in Britain, English. Hebrew was left as a sacred language used only in prayers and religious texts. When certain social restrictions on Jews in European countries were lifted in the 19th century, Jews began to assimilate with the societies they were living in. Most Jews saw themselves as a ‘religious community,’ not as a ‘race’ or ‘nation.’ They described themselves as ‘Jewish Germans,’ ‘Jewish Britons,’ or ‘Jewish Americans.’

However, there was a huge rise in racism all over the world in the 19th century. Racist ideas, influenced in particular by Darwin’s theory of evolution, grew enormously and found many supporters particularly in Western societies. Atheist Zionism was the effect this racist storm had among the Jews.

There are two varieties of Zionism today. The first of these is the Zionist conception of the devout Jewish people, who wish to live in peace and security in Israel alongside Muslims, seeking peace and wishing to worship in the lands of their forefathers and engage in business. In that sense, Muslims support Zionism. We would fully back the devout Jewish people living in peace and security in their own lands, remembering God, worshipping in their synagogues and engaging in science and trade in their own land.

The Zionist belief held by a devout Jew and based on the Torah does not in any way conflict with the Qur’an. The Jews’ living in that region is indicated in the Qur’an, in which it is revealed that God has settled the Children of Israel on it:

Remember when Moses said to his people, “My people! Remember God’s blessing to you when He appointed prophets among you and appointed kings for you, and gave you what He had not given to anyone else in all the worlds! My people! Enter the Holy Land which God has ordained for you. Do not turn back in your tracks and so become transformed into losers.” (Surat al-Ma’ida: 20-21)

It is the “irreligious, Godless Zionism” that we as Muslims condemn and regard as a threat. These Godless Zionists, who do not defend the existence and oneness of God, but, on the contrary, encourage a Darwinist, materialist perspective and thus engage in irreligious propaganda, are also a threat to devout Jews. Godless Zionism is today engaged in a struggle against peace, security and moral virtue, and constantly produces strife and chaos and the shedding of blood. Muslims and devout Jews must join forces to oppose this Godless Zionism and encourage belief in God.

Judaism Is Not the Origin of Atheist Zionism

The Jews who propagated the idea of Godless Zionism were people with very weak religious beliefs, most of whom were atheists. They saw Judaism as the name of a race, not as a community of belief. They suggested that the Jews were a separate race from European nations, that it was impossible for them to live together and that it was essential they establish their own homeland. They did not rely on religious thinking when deciding where that homeland should be. Theodor Herzl, the founder of irreligious Zionism, once thought of Uganda, and this became known as the ‘Uganda Plan.’ The Zionists later decided on Palestine. The reason for this was Palestine was regarded as ‘the Jews’ historic homeland’ rather than for any religious significance it had for them.

The atheist Zionists made great efforts to get other Jews to accept these non-religious ideas. In fact, the World Zionist Organization that was set up for this purpose undertook vast propaganda work in all countries with Jewish populations, and suggested that Jews could not live peacefully with other nations and that they were a separate ‘race,’ for which reason they had to go and settle in Palestine. Most Jewish communities ignored these calls.

In this way, atheist Zionism entered world politics as a racist ideology which maintained that Jews should not live with other nations. First of all, this mistaken idea created grave problems for and pressure on Jews living in the diaspora. Then for the millions of Muslims in the Middle East, it brought the Israeli policy of occupation and annexation, together with bloodshed, death, poverty and terror.

Many Jews today criticize this atheist and radical form of Zionist ideology. Rabbi Hirsch, one of the foremost Jewish men of religion, said, ‘Zionism wants to define the Jewish people as a national entity ... which is a heresy’2

The famous French Muslim thinker Roger Garaudy wrote this on the subject:

The worst enemy of the prophetic Jewish faith is the nationalist, racist and colonialist logic of tribal Zionism, born of the nationalism, racism and colonialism of 19th century Europe. This logic …inspired all the colonialisms of the West and all its wars of one nationalism against another…There is no future or security for Israel and no peace in the Middle East unless Israel becomes "dezionized" and returns to the faith of Abraham, which is the spiritual, fraternal and common heritage of the three revealed religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. 3

For this reason, therefore, we must distinguish between devout Jews and atheist Zionists. Not every Jew in the world holds such an understanding of Zionism. In fact, atheist Zionists are a minority in the Jewish world. Moreover, there are a great many Jews who oppose atheist Zionism’s crimes against humanity, who want Israel to withdraw at once from all the territory it has occupied, and say that instead of being a racist ‘Jewish state’ Israel should be a free state where all races and communities can live together in equality.

While Muslims rightfully oppose Israel and atheist Zionism, they must also bear these truths in mind, and remember that it is not the devout Jews who are the problem, but atheist Zionism.
1 "Professor Leibowitz calls Israeli politics in Lebanon Judeo-Nazi" Yediot Aharonoth, July 2, 19822 Washington Post, October 3, 19783 Roger Garaudy, "Right to Reply: Reply to the Media Lynching of Abbe Pierre and Roger Garaudy", Samizdat, June 1996

NOBLE TEACHINGS FROM THE QURAN

2009-06-20T06:06:00.000-07:00

Abu Mas'ud 'Uqba ibn 'Amr al-Ansari al-Badri reported that the Messenger of Allah, (PBUH), said, "Anyone who shows the way to something good has the same reward as the person who does it." [Muslim]

E.g. if you encourage someone to go for Salah, or pay Zakat and the person actually goes ahead and prays or pays Zakat, Allah will reward him for the good deeds and at the same time give you (the one that encouraged them to do good) an equal reward as he has given them- without decreasing what he gave them.

So Encourage Other To Do Good And Refrain From Bad Deeds

Some Noble Teachings of the Qur'an

The Qur'an offers freedom of faith

(10:108, 6:104, 10:99, 39:41, 11:121, 73:19, 43:88-89, 2:272, 76:29, 18:29, 42:48, 76:2-3, 3:20, 88:21-22, 16:82-83, etc.),freedom of religion (2:256, 109:6, 22:67-69, 42:15, 10:41, 2:139, 42:6, etc.),and freedom of freethinking (15:3, 17:84, 6:110, 10:11, 11:121, 52:45, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches to believe in all the previous Messengers of God as they represent the chain of evolution

(2:1-4, 3:84, 2:285, 4:152, 37:37, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches that Islam is for everyone

(2:62, 22:17, 21:107, 2:111-112, 5:69, 34:28, 103:1-3, 22:67, 10:47, 35:24, 16:36, 68:52, 49:13, 4:1, 2:213, 10:19, 17:70, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches love, mercy, kindness, and forgiveness

(1:1-2, 85:14, 21:107, 60:7, 4:17, 7:199, 39:53, 16:119, 3:159, 15:85, 16:119, 19:96, 2:160, 2:163, 4:27-28, etc.).

The Qur'an is the only non-Jewish scripture in the world where Jews have been honored and protected in so many verses

(2:40, 2:47-52, 2:57-58, 5:20, 5:44, 10:47, 10:90-93, 14:6, 17:2-3, 20:47-52, 20:77-80, 44:30-32, 45:16, etc.),

good Jews have been praised and they have also been offered salvation if they follow the true teachings of Moses

(2:62, 2:121-122, 3:113-115, 3:199, 5:12, 5:65-66, 5:69, 29:46, etc.).

The Qur'an is the only non-Christian scripture in the world where Jesus and Mary have been honored with very high respect

(3:42-55, 5:44-46, 5:110, 43:59, Chapter 19 on Mary, etc.),good Christians have been praised and they have also been offered salvation if they follow the true teachings of Jesus (2:62, 2:121-122, 3:113-115, 3:199, 5:65-66, 5:69, 5:82, 29:46, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches that the pre-Qur'anic people will be judged according to their own deeds and actions

(2:134, 10:47, 35:24, 16:36, 40:78, 4:164, 17:15, 62:5, 5:44, 20:133-4, etc.).

Unlike Bible that prescribes death penalty for idolatry and polytheism

(Deuteronomy 17:3-5, 13:6-15; 2 Chronicles 15:13; etc.),

the Qur'an doesn't have any temporal punishment for the same

(22:17, 6:107-8, 22:67-69, 17:84, 49:11, 4:48).

The Qur'an is the only religious Book that strongly condemns female infanticide

(16:58-59, 81:8-9, 6:137, 6:140, 6:151, 17:31).

The Qur'an teaches in various ways to free the slaves that come into possession as a result of war(90:12-13, 9:60, 5:89, 2:177, 4:3, 4:25, 4:92, 24:33, 58:3, 8:67, 47:4, etc.).

The Qur'an strongly condemns terrorism and oppression

(4:75, 22:39-40, 9:13-14, 42:39-43, 38:28, 2:190-193).

The Qur'an strongly condemns unjust killing and suicide

(5:32, 2:195, 4:29-30, 4:91-93, 17:31, 17:33, 6:151, 25:68, 3:21, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches self-defense and tolerance

(60:7-9, 2:190-3, 6:107-8, 6:68, 49:11, 39:3, 16:126-128, 73:10, 19:46-47, etc.).

The Qur'an advises Muslims not to take terrorist, intolerant, and hypocrite Jews and Christians as friends and protectors

(5:51, 5:57-61, 60:8-9, 3:118-120).

The Qur'an strongly condemns priesthood and religious peddlers

(2:41, 2:79, 5:44, 3:187, 9:9, 9:31, 9:34, 2:174, 12:104, etc.).

The Qur'an strongly forbids eating up others' property

(2:188, 4:2, 4:10, 4:161, etc.).

The Qur'an strongly condemns defrauders

(83:1-4, 55:7-9, 17:35, 6:152, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches not to follow feeble oath-monger, slanderer, greedy, and hinderer of the good(68:10-13, 49:11-12).

The Qur'an protects religious temples

(22:40).

The Qur'an teaches to follow the middle and straight path

(17:29, 25:67, 2:143, 23:62, 4:171, 17:9, 2:286).

The Qur'an gives equal status and rights to men and women

(4:1, 4:7, 4:124, 3:195, 16:97, 33:35, 49:13, etc.).

The Qur'an gives rights to orphans, needy, and widows

(2:177, 2:115, 2:220, 2:240-241, 4:2, 4:8, 4:10, 4:36, 9:60, 17:26, 17:34, 93:9-10, 89:17-18, 6:152, 107:1-3, etc.).

The Qur'an encourages men to give dower to women as free gift whom they marry

(4:4).

The Qur'an teaches to give charity to poor and needy

(2:43, 2:177, 2:277, etc.).

The Qur'an protects women's dignity from wicked men

(24:4, 24:23).

The Qur'an teaches that widow can re-marry, if she wishes

(2:234-240).

The Qur'an teaches that woman can get divorce, if she wishes

(2:228-232).

The Qur'an teaches that divorced woman can re-marry, if she wishes

(2:229, 2:232).

The Qur'an teaches to be kind, helpful, and respectful to your parents

(29:8, 17:23, 46:15, 19:14, 6:151, 4:36, 2:215, 2:83, 71:28, etc.).

The Qur'an forbids marrying one's mother, daughters, sisters, and many other close relatives(4:22-23).

The Qur'an encourages both men and women to be modest and chaste

(7:26-28, 24:30-31, 33:59, 2:268, 17:32, etc.).

The Qur'an prescribes hundred stripes as a symbol of punishment for adultery and fornication to keep the society healthy

(24:2).

The Qur'an strongly discourages intoxicants and gambling

(5:90-91).

The Qur'an forbids eating dead animals, ferocious animals, blood, and pork

(16:115).

The Qur'an condemns bad magic that may harm gullible people

(2:102).

The Qur'an teaches to strive for good works

(2:148).

The Qur'an teaches not to lie and not to mix up truth with falsehood

(45:7, 2:42, 52:11-12, 3:94, 3:71, 39:3, etc.).

The Qur'an encourages people for seeking knowledge and asking question

(17:36, 39:9, 47:24, 25:33, 38:29, 17:85, 21:7, 2:215-220, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches not to ask those types of questions, which may cause you pain and trouble(5:101). For example, who is your real father?

The Qur'an teaches not to follow conjecture

(10:36, 17:36, 49:12).

The Qur'an teaches, contrary to the superstitious belief of the then Arabs, that adopted son and biological son are not the same

(33:4-5).

The Qur'an teaches that majority may not be granted

(6:116).

The Qur'an encourages traveling

(29:20, 22:46, 6:11, 40:21, 47:10, 30:42, 3:137, etc.).

The Qur'an offers practical Golden Rule that can be followed

(2:44, 41:34, 11:88, 60:7-9, 61:2-3, 8:61; Sahih Bukhari 8:73:26, 1:2:12).

The Qur'an ensures absolute justice in this world and in the hereafter

(4:135, 5:8, 4:58, 57:25, 39:69-70, 40:17, 21:47, 36:54, 2:281, 7:29, 16:111, 17:13-15, 20:134-135, 4:123, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches to invite people to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching and to reason with them in ways that are best and most gracious

(16:125).

The Qur'an teaches to argue with the People of the Book in the best manner

(29:46).

The Qur'an teaches that God begets not, nor is He begotten as begetting is an un-Godly act(112:3, 4:171, 19:35, 10:68, 19:88-92, 5:75, etc.).

Both the Qur'an and Bible teach that Jesus was a human

(Acts 2:22; Qur'an 5:75, 25:20) and a Prophet of God (Matthew 21:11, Luke 24:19; Qur'an 2:87).

The Qur'an teaches not to believe in Trinity as Jesus himself never preached this kind of irrational doctrine

(Mark 12:29; Qur'an 4:171, 5:73).

The Qur'an teaches not to believe in Original Sin as Jesus himself never preached this kind of inhumane doctrine

(Ezekiel 18:20; Qur'an 17:15, 6:164, 53:38).

The Qur'an invites people from the depth of Darkness into Light

(14:1, 57:9).

The Qur'an teaches not to practice monasticism as it's an impractical way of life

(57:27).

The Qur'an teaches to have Imaan (conviction) in The One and Only Unseen God

(2:3, 112:1-4, 67:12, 36:11, 42:51, etc.).

The Qur'an offers falsification test and challenge for the skeptics to falsify its Divine Claim

(4:82, 17:88, 2:23-24, 10:37, etc.).

The Qur'an very emphatically and uniquely claims to be the Revelation from the Lord of the Worlds in so many verses

(4:82, 17:88, 2:23-24, 10:37, 32:2, 26:192-4, 16:102, 36:5, 42:51-53, 41:52-53, 56:77-82, 69:40-51, 25:4-6, etc.).

The Qur'an offers various logics for the unbelievers of Creator

(22:5, 75:36-40, 22:73, 23:91, 2:28, 17:99, 19:66-67, 21:22, 29:46, 6:99, etc.).

The Qur'an teaches that this temporal world is a test for the hereafter

(18:7, 67:2, 2:155, 2:214, 29:2-3),and each and every individual will be judged perfectly according to his/her own deeds and actions(36:54, 4:85, 40:17, 21:47, 36:54, 2:281, 7:29, 16:111, 17:13-15, 20:134-135, 42:24, 4:123).

The Qur'an promises eternal peace and salvation in the hereafter

(85:11, 4:122, 14:23, 19:60-61, 32:19, 2:25, 2:112, 16:97, 4:124, etc.).

Study: Men Objectify Scantily Clad Women

2009-06-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Memory tests performed on the men showed that most of them best remembered photographs of headless women in bikinis despite viewing each image for only a fraction of a second.

Anecdotally, Muslim women often speak of feeling "protected," "safe," and "respected" when they wear the hijab (religiously mandated modest dress that covers the shape of the body and includes the headscarf or veil). Now there may also be evidence to show that their feelings are rooted in scientific fact. When psychologist Susan Fiske and a team of researchers at Princeton University performed MRI brain scans on heterosexual men who viewed a series of images showing both scantily clad and fully clothed men and women, they found that the men had an unmistakable response to women wearing less clothing.

The less they wore, the more likely it was for the premotor cortex and the posterior middle temporal gyrus to light up. These are the areas of the brain associated with tool use, hand manipulation, and the urge to take action. (Cikara, Dell'Amore)

"It was as if they immediately thought about how they might act on these bodies," Fiske explained during the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science which was held in Chicago, February 12-16. "They are reacting to these photographs as people react to objects," she said. (Nicholson)

Memory tests performed on the men showed that most of them best remembered photographs of headless women in bikinis despite viewing each image for only a fraction of a second. (Landau)

Fiske and her team further examined the men for hostile sexist attitudes. They found that those rated as more hostile had little activity in areas of the brain that are associated with considering another person's thoughts and feelings (a phenomenon called mentalizing) when looking at sexualized photos of women in bikinis. "They are not thinking about their minds," said Fiske. (Cikara, Dell'Amore, Landau)

Several studies further demonstrate the link between viewing pornography and committing violence against women, including rape and sexual assault.

Sexualized Women Viewed as Less Human

According to a lay summary of Fiske's study provided to IslamOnline.net, when a man's mentalizing network shuts down, this means he views sexualized women as "less human." (Cikara)

This type of dehumanization is something Fiske says has rarely been observed in the laboratory setting—only "once before," according to a recent National Geographic article, which cited a study in which people were shown "off-putting photographs of homeless people and drug addicts." (Dell'Amore)

In the case of scantily clad women, however, men do not demonstrate the same feelings of avoidance as they do with populations like the homeless, which are often shunned by society. Instead, they wish to act on them as one would "push," "handle," or "grab" an object—first-person action verbs that men associated with the images of women in swimsuits. (Dell'Amore, Landau)

Mina Cikara, a Princeton University graduate student who was involved in conducting the study, added that men do not view their wives or sisters in the same manner they view sexualized images of women. In addition, men associated the images of women who were more fully clothed with third-person verbs, such as "she pushes," "she handles," and "she grabs," which, according to Fiske, implies that men view fully-clothed women as having more command over their own actions and not as objects to be manipulated. (Eshleman, Landau)

More Clothing, More Respect

"One of the main objectives of hijab is to safeguard women from the gazes of people of weak morals."

According to Fiske, the results of the study have important implications for women, especially in the workplace as it has previously been shown that viewing sexualized images of women can affect how men perceive women and interact with them afterwards. (Landau, Sample) A sexism study conducted by Lawrence University professor, Peter Glick, also found that professional women who wear provocative attire in the workplace are perceived by their co-workers as being less competent and less intelligent, especially when they are in positions of power. According to DiversityJobs.com, Glick's study suggests that "women in higher level and high power jobs may need to dress more modestly and conservatively to win the respect of their colleagues." (DiversityJobs.com)

Several studies further demonstrate the link between viewing pornography and committing violence against women, including rape and sexual assault. In the wars of Bosnia and Iraq, soldiers who committed atrocious crimes and dehumanized the other side were often found to be regular consumers of pornography, even viewing pornography on purpose to "psyche themselves up" for the work of killing. (Chew, Rejali)

Fiske compared the results of her study to studies showing that viewing television can desensitize one to the effects of violence. "You have to be aware of the effect of these images on people," Fiske told The Daily Princetonian. "They’re not neutral. They do have an effect on how people think about other women." (Eshleman, Alleyne)

Dignity and Confidence

"There were times where I wish I was covered up more so that I could just get home without worrying about who might be following me." Despite mounting evidence showing the benefits of modest and conservative dress, media portrayals of the hijab frequently depict Muslim women as victims of oppression, mind-control, and abuse. Karen Danielson, however, maintains that wearing the hijab gives her both dignity and confidence. Danielson, an American living in Jordan, first wore the hijab more than two decades ago, shortly after embracing Islam in 1983.

"When I walk in public, I cannot be looked at or judged based on my sensuality or lack of either, or how I attract or not attract men," she explained to IslamOnline.net. "I define myself based on my upright behavior and intelligence—what my dress upholds—and I am humbled in my modest dress."

"I feel that I can be myself, a unique individual with her own voice to speak," added Sumayah Finnigan. "I am not conforming to the majority in what they say and wear and thus I am me - which is thoroughly liberating."

Balqees Mohammed, an American who embraced Islam in 1979, holds similar views and told IslamOnline.net that the hijab "promotes modesty...for the woman as well as all those around her."

Mohammed, who lives in Saudi Arabia and covers her face in addition to the rest of her body, says that her way of dressing "causes others, particularly men, to not be so free to engage in unnecessary discussion."

Hijab and Safety

"The message that the woman gives when she wears Islamic dress is as follows: 'Respect me for who I am. I am not a sex object.'" "I definitely feel safer wearing hijab and dressing modestly in general," Cari Abudeyeh, another American living in Jordan and a practicing Muslim of twelve years told IslamOnline.net. "I feel it is my barrier against men staring or disrespecting me and my boundaries. It is a barrier to prevent or change that first instinctive look men give you to check you out and see what you are 'about,' a barrier to prevent sexual feelings you didn't intend them to feel or ideas in their heads that are created by dressing provocatively."

She went on to say that "It's a protection against men approaching you in an inappropriate manner, helping to influence their decision in the way they stand by you, talk to you, look at you, or even prevent them from touching you."

Finnigan, who is from London, contrasts wearing the hijab, which she describes as "an act of obedience to the Creator" that "makes women safer in both the literal sense and the spiritual sense," with the feelings of vulnerability she used to experience before accepting Islam and the hijab in 1999.

"There were times where I wish I was covered up more so that I could just get home without worrying about who might be following me," said Finnigan. "Every night I would venture out and return home always looking over my shoulder, afraid I would be attacked or raped."

"There will always be those who will or may attack women regardless of their manners or style of dress," acknowledges Mohammed. However, she sees the Muslim hijab as "an added help to ward off possible physical approaches."

"One of the main objectives of hijab is to safeguard women from the gazes of people of weak morals and from those seeking to indulge in unlawful worldly pleasures," says Sheikh Riyad Al-Musaymiri, a professor at Al-Imam University in Riyadh. (IslamToday.com)

"The Muslim woman is distinguished from the impious woman, for which she deserves respect." (Al-Musaymiri)

According to IslamToday.com, some Western observers have assumed that the head covering of a woman is meant to show her inferiority to men.

“This could not be further from the truth. The Qur'an explicitly states that the reason for her dressing this way is so that she will be respected. The message that the woman gives when she wears Islamic dress is as follows: 'Respect me for who I am. I am not a sex object.'" (IslamToday.com)

For Mohammed, the choice to wear the hijab was an obvious one. "For me, it was not a question of safety. I never even thought of it in that light," she explained.

"It was a question of following Allah's directives. For me, I was [neither] happy nor satisfied in becoming a Muslim only half-way. Either I became a Muslim and followed the commands and directives the best that I could, or I remained as I was previously."

"My dress helps to remind me about my behavior and my religion and it indicates to others the same," added Danielson. "And that is security on more levels than just safety in public; it is peace of mind and a protected heart that is molded. Alhamdulillah (Praise to God)!"

Sources:

Al-Musaymiri, Riyad. "Dress & Grooming." IslamToday.com. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Alleyne, Richard. "Men Really do See Half Naked Women as 'Objects', Scientists Claim." The Telegraph. 16 Feb 2009. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Chew, Huibin Amee. "Why the War is Sexist (And Why We Can't Ignore Gender Anymore)." History News Network. 13 March, 2006. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Cikara, Mina; Eberhardt, Jennifer L.; Fiske, Susan T. "From Subjects to Objects: Sexist Attitudes and Neural Responses to Sexualized Targets." Lay Summary of Study Conducted at Princeton University.

Dell'Amore, Christine. "Bikinis Make Men See Women as Objects, Scans Confirm." National Geographic News. 16 Feb. 2009. Accessed 12 March 2009.

"Dress & Grooming." IslamToday.com. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Eshleman, Doug. "Men View Half-Naked Women as Objects, Study Finds." The Daily Princetonian. 17 Feb. 2009. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Landau, Elizabeth. "Men See Bikini-Clad Women as Objects, Psychologists Say." CNN. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Nicholson, Christie. "Women as Sex Objects." Scientific American. 17 Feb. 2009. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Rejali, Darius. "After Feminist Analyses of Bosnian Violence." Reed College. 1996. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Sample, Ian. "Sex Objects: Pictures Shift Men's View of Women." The Guardian. 16 Feb. 2009. Accessed 12 March 2009.

"Wearing Provocative Attire May Impair Women's Progress in the Workplace." DiversityJobs. 14 May 2007. Accessed 12 March 2009.

Amel S. Abdullah is a freelance writer, editor, and Arabic-English translator who has written and translated more than 200 published articles on topics related to health, science, technology, culture, history, language, and education. She is especially interested in the relationship between faith and science and is a regular contributor to IslamOnline.net. She can be reached via e-mail at amel.abdullah@yahoo.com.

The Structure of Israel's Occupation

2009-06-20T05:55:00.000-07:00

Toward a Policy of Death

The Structure of Israel 's Occupation By LUDWIG WATZAL

Israel has used Gaza as a free fire zone for 22 days and nights. Inevitably, the question arises how could Israel 's occupation become so brutal taking into account the country's claim of being a "benign occupation power". Neve Gordon's book asks exactly that question. Did it happen because of decisions made by politicians or military officers or did the reasons lay in certain elements of the occupation's structure? The author sees the latter as the main cause of the conflict.

Initially, "the occupation operated according to the colonization principle" which means the administration of people's lives, while exploiting the territories' resources. Structural contradictions undermined the original principle and gave way in the mid-1990 to the separation principle. By separation, Gordon means "the abandonment of efforts to administer the lives of a colonized population". This lack of interest towards peoples' lives that is characteristic of the separation principle "accounts for the recent surge in lethal violence".

Read the complete article at:
http://counterpunch.org/watzal03112009.html

Ethnic Cleansing and Israel

2009-06-20T05:51:00.000-07:00

"The Ultimate Aim is the Transfer of Arab-Israelis"

By CONN HALLINAN

One of the more disturbing developments in the Middle East is a growing consensus among Israelis that it would acceptable to expel—in the words of advocates "transfer"—its Arab citizens to either a yet as unformed Palestinian state or the neighboring countries of Jordan and Egypt.

Such sentiment is hardly new among Israeli extremists, and it has long been advocated by racist Jewish organizations like Kach, the party of the late Rabbi Meir Kahane, as well as groups like the National Union, which doubled its Knesset representation in the last election.

But "transfer" is no longer the exclusive policy of extremists, as it has increasingly become a part of mainstream political dialogue. "My solution for maintaining a Jewish and democratic state of Israel is to have two nation-states with certain concessions and with clear red lines," Kadima leader and Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni told a group of Tel Aviv high school students last December, "and among other things, I will be able to approach the Palestinian residents of Israel, those whom we call Israeli Arabs, and tell them, ` your national solution lies elsewhere.'"

Such talk has consequences.

Read the complete article at:

http://counterpunch .org/hallinan030 32009.html

Why did Muhammad come after Jesus

2009-06-20T05:26:00.000-07:00

By Nabil Haroun

Question:

This is a hard question to ask without sounding like I'm trying to criticize, but here we go. Why should anyone believe that Muhammad is a true prophet when Jesus Christ came about five hundred years before him, preaching pretty much the same thing, and warning about false prophets that would come after he had died?

I realize that this question may anger whoever is answering, but please actually think about the question before answering on pure emotion. Thanks.

Answer:

Salam, Mark.

Thank you for your question. No negative feelings, but loving pity for the widespread misconception and lack of information on what Islam and its prophet are all about.

Did Jesus and Muhammad Teach the Same Thing?

Yes and no. It is true that both Jesus and Muhammad, as well as all true prophets from Adam, Noah, etc. (peace be upon them all), carried essentially the same message: Islam, that is, monotheism and submission to the will and guidance of God. However, the details were not identical, but varied to cope with the time and nation addressed.

While Jesus (peace be upon him) was sent specifically to the Israelites, Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent to all humanity. This was emphasized by Jesus as well:

“But he answered and said, ‘I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’” (Matthew 15:24)

In contrast, the Qur’an declares the universal message of Islam. The Qur’an says what means:

*{Say: “O people! surely I am the Messenger of Allah to you all, of Him Whose is the kingdom of the heavens and the earth; there is no god but He; He brings to life and causes to die; therefore believe in Allah and His Messenger, the illiterate Prophet who believes in Allah and His words, and follow him so that you may walk in the right way.”}* (Al-A`raf 7:158)

*{And you do not ask them for a reward for this; it is nothing but a reminder for all mankind.}* (Yusuf 12:104)

*{And We have not sent you but as a mercy to the worlds.}* (Al-Anbiyaa’ 21:107)

*{Blessed is He Who sent down the criterion to His servant, that it may be an admonition to all creatures }* (Al-Furqan 25:1)

*{And We have not sent you but to all the men as a bearer of good news and as a warner, but most men do not know.}* (Saba’ 34:28)

*{It is nothing but a reminder to the nations.}* (Saad 38:87)

*{And it is naught but a reminder to the nations.}* (Al-Qalam 68:52)

*{It is naught but a reminder for the nations.}* (At-Takwir 81:27)

Also, while the original message of Jesus was distorted and deviated away from monotheism, the message of the final Prophet Muhammad was to stay valid and preserved to the end of time.

While Jesus’s emphasis was on moral salvation and reform of the individual, with only a few rulings on marriage and divorce, etc., the final message of Islam brought a detailed comprehensive code dealing with all aspects of human life: personal, family, social, economic, political, and international. Jesus stressed purifying the soul; Muhammad was to build and maintain the model: individual, society, and nation.

Why Should Muhammad Come Six Centuries after Jesus?

Jesus, a human monotheist prophet, repeatedly called to Allah the One God and warned those who ascribed partners to Him:

“Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and Him Only.’” (Matthew 4:10)

“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lordour God, the Lord is One.’” (Mark 12:29)

Jesus emphasized his own humanity:

“As it is, you are determined to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God.” (John 8:40)

“By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear.” (John 5:30)

Jesus never claimed to be God, or part of a God. He never mentioned Trinity, nor did he appoint a church to entrust itself with reshaping the faith and re-inventing the law. The deviation started with Paul and some others—leaders, clergy, and philosophers—centuries after Jesus’s departure. Christianity as we know it today was re-formulated with its concepts of:

- Trinity, centered around the prophet Jesus who was thenceforth called God, begotten son of God
- The sacrosanct Church of Christ, talking and enacting laws in the name of God
- The story of crucifixion and resurrection from the dead
- Original sin and atonement

Read for example, according to Paul (NIV):

“At once he [Paul]began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.” (Acts 9:20)

“Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel…” (2 Timothy 2:8)

“Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all.” (Galatians 5:2)

“What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision?” (Romans 3:1)

Most of these distortions were borrowed or coined from earlier pagan creeds. Close similarities can be found between this Pauline Christianity and Mithraism, Buddhism, and ancient Egyptian polytheist creeds.

During the seventh century CE when Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent, there were only a few groups of followers of the original message and teachings of Jesus. The Injeel revealed to Jesus no longer existed in any form, as was the case of the Tawrah of Moses before him. They were replaced with the Old and New Testaments written by different human authors selected and sanctioned as holy by the Church ecumenical councils, several centuries after the departure of Jesus.

It was high time then to re-establish the eternal guidance of the Creator to all humanity, but this time in a final eternal form, through the Glorious Qur’an and the detailed teachings and living model of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Jesus prophesized the coming prophet whose universal message will stay forever:

“He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie." (John 1:27)

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— ” (John 14:16)

Plenty of other definitive descriptions that fit only Prophet Muhammad can be cited from both the Old and New Testaments. Please see suggested links at the top of this answer.

True versus False Prophets

Here are some criteria for a true prophet:

1. He should bring signs or proofs that are far beyond human capacity.2. His message should be shown to emanate from without himself.3. He should carry his mission to the end in spite of all obstacles.4. His message would be supported by God to victory over his enemies.

1. Applying these criteria to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), we find that the main proof he presented is a living miracle, the eternal word of God: the Qur’an. The Arabic text of the Qur’an challenges all generations to produce anything as perfect or splendorous. Even the Prophet’s own sayings (Hadith) are very different from the Qur’an. Also, the scientific precision of Qur’anic references to natural phenomena, as well as the wisdom of its decrees, are far beyond the human knowledge and culture at the time of revelation and for several centuries to follow. Please see suggested links at the bottom of this answer.

2. The message and text of the Qur’an did not emanate from within, but from outside, the Prophet Muhammad. This can be proved by the way he was addressed in that extraordinary Book.

The Qur’an repeatedly reminded and drew the attention of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to his obligations towards Allah, the revelation, the believers, and the unbelievers. Please read the Qur’an 75:16-18, 20:114, 87:6-7, 10:109 and 10:15-16.

He was also repeatedly exhorted and warned against yielding to the temptations and pressures that were surrounding him. Please read the Qur’an: 17:73-75, 13:37-38, 5:49, 2:145, 2:120, 5:67, 6:14, 6:114, 11:112, 15:88, 68:48 and 72: 21-22.

In addition, the Qur’an included admonitions that were directed to the noble Prophet (peace be upon him) in some situations. Please read the Qur’an: 4:105-109, 9:43, 9:117, 9:113, 6:52, 8:67-68, 66:1 and 80:1-11. Sometimes the Qur’an revealed matters that he would have preferred to keep secret in the depths of his pure soul. Please read the Qur’an: 33:37.

It is difficult for a sound mind to imagine that the noble Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would address himself with the aim of guidance, exhortation, warning, and admonishment, or would reveal things about himself that he would not like other people to know about. Also, it is difficult to believe that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) would, after doing that, convey to the people the Qur’an, which would never be abrogated, deleted, or forgotten.

Occasionally, the revelation was delayed for weeks or months, despite the urgent need of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to refute the hypocrites and the slanderers. Examples for this are the Qur’anic verses 24:11-17 and 93:1-3.

The Prophet even used his own discretion in interpreting some verses, until revelation was sent down contradicting his opinion. An example of this is verses 9:80-84.

3. The Prophet delivered the revealed message and fought for it, against all odds. His whole twenty-three years of prophethood were years of hardships. The first thirteen years he and his followers were persecuted, tortured, and boycotted by the pagans of Makkah. He refused all offers of kingdom, wealth, or reconciling his message with their pagan beliefs. The following ten years, after immigration to Madinah, witnessed a harsh continuous struggle to spread the faith, with incessant fighting against the hostilities of Arab tribes and Madinah Jews, as well as the preludes to confrontation with the great Roman and Persian Empires. His personal life was the simplest and most ascetic of his contemporaries.

4. Allah supported him and his few early followers with unexpected victories in spite of their poverty, physical weakness, and military and technical inexperience. His message was supported and spread to every corner of the world in a brief time. No human being could have such a biography unless he is a true messenger of God, and truly he was. Allah rewards him for what he honestly delivered and for his striving for the salvation of all nations and generations.

Who Are False Prophets?

Coming now to false prophets, Jesus said, according to the Bible (NIV):

“They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.” (Matthew 15:9)

"Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” (Matthew 7:15)

“For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect—if that were possible.” (Matthew 24:24)

“For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform signs and miracles to deceive the elect—if that were possible.” (Mark 13:22)

There are two categories of false prophets:

Claimers following their own fancies and whims, seeking worldly gains of prestige, authority, or wealthProminent personalities, over-magnified by their followers, who raise them to the status of prophets or semi-godsOf the first category are those who invented or changed a creed without authority or supporting evidence from God. Examples are Paul and others, then followed by the Church, which reformulated Christianity against what Jesus stood for. Similarly in Islamic history, several claimants sought to ruin Islam from within, forming deviant sects like Qadianis, Baha’is and extreme Shiite sects such as the Ismailis.

The second category includes several philosophers, scientists, clergy, and leaders, etc., who were considered almost inviolable prophets to be believed and followed unquestionably. Examples are Greek philosophers, Marx, Lenin, Darwin, Saints, Roman emperors and their modern counterparts of the so-called New World Order.

I hope that you now have your puzzlements resolved. Thank you and please keep in touch.

Salam.

Divinity of Jesus? An inquiry

2009-06-20T05:25:00.000-07:00

The critical difference between Jesus' teachings and the Trinitarian
formula lies in elevating Jesus to divine status—a status Jesus
denies in the gospels:

"Why do you call me good: No one is good but One, that is, God."
(Matthew 9:17, Mark 10-18, and Luke 18:19)

"My Father is greater than I." (John 14:28)

"I do nothing of myself, but as the Father taught me, I speak these
things." (John 8:28)

"Most assuredly, I say to you, the son can do nothing of himself …"
(John 5:19)

"But I know Him, for I am from Him, and He sent me." (John 7:29)

"He who rejects me rejects Him who sent me." (Luke 10:16)

"But now I go away to Him who sent me …" (John 16:5)

"Jesus answered them and said, `My doctrine is not mine, but His who
sent me.'" (John 7:16)

"For I have not spoken on my own authority; but the Father who sent
me gave me a command, what I should say and what I should speak."
(John 12:49)

Read the full article at:

http://www.islamrel igion.com/ articles/ 560/

Essentials books on comparitive religion (1)

2009-06-20T05:22:00.000-07:00

Assalamu Alaikum Warrahmaatullah

Dear brothers and sisters in Islam,

In carrying out the noble task of da'wah towards the non-Muslims, it
is highly indispensable that we are equipped with the right type of
scholarly materials that would assist our comprehension of the
subject matter and enhance our ability to convey the message of Al
Islam in a more convincing and presentable manner.

In light of this when it comes to sharing Islam with Christians, the
following books are essential part of collection for all daees and
students of comparative religion.

On the Historical Jesus and Early Christian History

The Historical Figure of Jesus by E.P. Sanders (Penguin Non Classic,
1996)

The Jesus Dynasty: The Hidden History of Jesus, His Royal Family,
and the Birth of Christianity by James Tabor (Simon & Schuster,
2007)

How Jesus Became Christian by Barrie Wilson (St. Martin's Press,
2008)

The Changing Faces of Jesus by Geza Vermes (Penguin Books Ltd, 2001)

When Jesus Became God: The Struggle to Define Christianity during
the Last Days of Rome by Richard E. Rubenstein (Harvest Books, 2000)

From Jesus to Christ: The Origins of the New Testament Images of
Christ by Paula Fredriksen (Yale University Press, 2000, 2nd
edition)

From Jesus to Christianity: How Four Generations of Visionaries &
Storytellers Created the New Testament and Christian Faith by L.
Michael White (HarperOne, 2005)

The Mythmaker: Paul And the Invention Of Christianity by Hyam
Maccoby (Barnes & Noble Books, 1986)

Lost Christianities: The Battles for Scripture and the Faiths We
Never Knew by Bart D. Ehrman ( Oxford University Press,
2005)

How Jesus Became God: From Jewish Preacher to the Lord of All by
Bart D. Ehrman (Oxford University Press, to be published in August
2009)

Prayer in Islam

2009-06-13T16:35:00.000-07:00

QUESTIONS :

No pictures, no idols, no symbols,
then what do Muslims pray to?

No burning of incense or paper money,
no lighting of joss sticks, no flowers,
then what do Muslims use for prayer?

No priests,
Then who guides the Muslims
in their prayer?

Is the Imam an intermediary
between God an man?

No holy water, no peacock feathers,
then how are Muslims blessed?

No chairs in mosques,
then where do Muslims sit
when they pray?

They don’t speak in Arabic here,
then why do Muslims here pray in Arabic?

A big prayer hall,
but why are only a few Muslims
praying here?

ANSWERS :

The Unseen Creator
Muslims pray to The Unseen Creator who created everything. His power to create is limitless. All He has to say is “Be’’ (“Kun” in Arabic) and it comes into existence. Everything came from Him and will return to Him. He does not have a son and was not fathered by anyone. He has no partners, and is unlike anything that the human mind can imagine. The Unseen Creator calls Himself by the personal name of “Allah” in The Noble Quran. Some say that when we drink water, we must remember the person who dug the well. The aims of a Muslim’s prayer are to remember and be grateful to Allah who created everything including the water and the person who dug the well!

Environment-friendly prayer
Prayer in Islam is a simple activity that consists of a series of body posture and recitation of verses from The Noble Quran. It is an environment-friendly prayer in that it does not require the burning of paper or other substances. The practice of making “offerings” to God is unacceptable in Islam. God is self-sufficient and has no needs.

No Priests
The person who leads the prayer is called Imam in Arabic. A person who has good knowledge and is able to recite The Quran well and lecture to the gathering during the Friday noon prayer is appointed as the Imam of a Mosque. The Imam is not like a priest. He is not an intermediary between God and man. Muslims seek the Mercy of God directly.

Reason and logic
Islam calls on the Believers to base their faith on reason and logic and not on blind beliefs such as believing that sprinkling holy water on the body or stroking the body with peacock feathers or other objects will drive away bad luck and bring prosperity. To receive the Mercy and blessings of God, Muslims are commanded to base their life on what is permitted, and keep away from the prohibited (such as intoxicants, gambling and adultery) in The Noble Quran and the traditions of the Prophet (pbuh).

Furniture-free
The Muslim prayer positions consist of standing, bowing, sitting and placing the forehead on the floor. It is no possible to do these while sitting on a chair. Thus all Muslim prayer places are furniture-free. There are no reserved places in the Mosque. All Muslims pray as equals.

Prayer in Arabic
Muslims use the words of God when praying to Him. They recite from The Noble Quran which is in Arabic. Praying in the language of The Quran ensures uniformity. A Muslim can go to any Mosque in the world and join the prayer without any difficulty. Praying in the language of The Quran ensures accuracy. Translations of the meanings of the verses in the Quran are not used in prayer. At the end of the formal prayer, Muslims can seek the forgiveness and blessings of God in their own languages. This is called ‘’du’a’’ or supplication

Prayer in any clean place
Muslims can performs their prayers in Mosques, homes or in any clean place. In some places, only a small number pray in Mosques, and they are usually those staying near the mosque and visitors. Muslims are required to perform the Friday noon prayer in the Mosque. The Mosque is packed during this prayer and in some places, Muslims pray in the compound of the Mosque due to lack of space inside.

God loves us

2009-04-13T17:54:00.000-07:00

In the name of God The Most Gracious The Most Merciful....

God created us from drop (semen)...

He placed us in the womb of mother with nurture...

He let us born pure without sin...

He prepared us with brain and mind...

He prepared us with heart and desires...

He endows us....

beautiful life...
even we often response His love with sins...

He'll forgive us...

whenever we ask forgiveness...

no need blood sacrificing...

as He is The Most Forgiving...

and loves to forgive....

He promises us...

paradise in the hereafter...

if we make good deeds....

Immanent Peace

JANGAN HINA AGAMA LAIN

Dr. Hakim Quick Penang Lecture Tour 2009

There Is No Compulsion In Islam, Everyone Enjoys Freedom Of Worship And Belief

Salam Eid Mubarak

Dialog Antara Agama

Do Muslims, Christians and Jews worship the same God?

Does God Love us in Islam?

Top 10 reasons why Jesus Christ Isn't God!

A fetus Prostrates to God

“Zionism Today is the Real Enemy of the Jews”

From The VATICAN to AL-AZHAR

Grammar for Life

LOVE

The Biological Clock In Plants

Have You Ever Thought Of This?

The Ignored sickness: An Unpredictable State Of Mind

Goodness In All

The Nature of Revelation

The Nature of Revelation

“O Aishah, I have heard this or that. If you are innocent, then God will show your innocence, and if you fell into sin, then seek God’s forgiveness.”

How revelation comes to the angels and to the Messengers

Why Islam?

Why Do Muslims Claim That They Are More Worthy Followers of Jesus (PBUH)

The Core of Islam

The Purpose of Life

Where is God

Holy Water

Sharks In Your Life

Are Muslims Baptized?

Islam and Christianity; Common Grounds…

Allah Moon God

"And from among His Signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. Do not bow down (prostrate) to the sun nor to the moon, but only bow down (prostrate) to "Allah" Who created them, if you (really) worship Him."[Holy Quran 41:37]

"They ask you about the new moons. Say: These are signs to mark fixed periods of time for mankind and for the pilgrimage."[Holy Quran 2:189]

"Those who believe and those who are Jews and Christians and Sabians, whoever believes in "Allah" and the Last Day and do righteous good deeds shall have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve."[Holy Quran 2:62; also 5:69]

Who is The Authors of The book of The Bible?

Who is the author of "RUTH?"

Answer: "Not definitely known"

Who is the author of:

DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN ATHEIST ZIONISM AND JUDAISM

NOBLE TEACHINGS FROM THE QURAN

Study: Men Objectify Scantily Clad Women

The Structure of Israel's Occupation

Ethnic Cleansing and Israel

Why did Muhammad come after Jesus

Divinity of Jesus? An inquiry

Essentials books on comparitive religion (1)

Prayer in Islam

God loves us

"And from among His Signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. Do not bow down (prostrate) to the sun nor to the moon, but only bow down (prostrate) to "Allah" Who created them, if you (really) worship Him."
[Holy Quran 41:37]

"They ask you about the new moons. Say: These are signs to mark fixed periods of time for mankind and for the pilgrimage."
[Holy Quran 2:189]

"Those who believe and those who are Jews and Christians and Sabians, whoever believes in "Allah" and the Last Day and do righteous good deeds shall have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve."
[Holy Quran 2:62; also 5:69]