STANCE of a MUSLIMAH

Luminosity Introduced

2007-03-31T01:16:00.000-05:00

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat ALLAH Wabarakatu:

Well it's been 3 months since I've blogged here, because I've been at a different location mainly, (http://suhaa.myminaret.com). My husband, children and I have moved to the City of the Prophet Muhammad (peace & blessings be upon him) which is in Saudi Arabia, Madinah. I've written about our experiences over there and begun describing the differences over there in comparison to the US (sort of) where I lived all my life up until now. There are virtues everywhere on Earth. In the US there are things I miss like the respect for time, but there are things that I probably couldn't get anywhere else in this world, and that is being part of a community that loves Allah as a whole. Islam is perfect and Muslims are not! Likewise, not everyone here is the ideal Muslim or Muslimah and some you find following culture more than for the sake of the true Islamic ways. But only in Jannah will perfection be everywhere and in everyone as Allah prescribes. So I invite you to follow my journey in hopes I can give you a glimpse of the Luminosity of Madinah and in hopes that your heart will be softened towards the radiance of this Holy Site. I pray that with my learnings and findings your heart will have increased desire to appreciate the richness of this land, being encouraged to visit for a pilgrimage, read up on the blessings of Madinah, or even make a plan to move here, God-willling. This goes for all of those just learning about Islam too, because to understand Islam..we need to understand the story of the luminous city of Madinah.
May Allah guide us all to do what pleases Him the Most.
...and Allah knows best.

New Blog: "Luminosity"

2006-12-29T13:15:00.000-05:00

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat Allah Wabarakatu and Dear Readers to all:

Eid Mubarak to all of you. This is it for my blog...this one anyway! I got another one started, and will make public now!
It's called "Luminosity" and you can find it at:

http://suhaa.myminaret.com

There I've begun discussing our plans for hijrah to Madinah and inshaAllah I hope to be able to share with all of you our journey as it relates to the beauty of Islam and the luminosity of this special place. I've gone through many emotions from excitement to nervousness, but with trust in Allah no one can be despaired. Having spent a few days in Madinah 4.5 years ago I had no knowledge that plans for living there would ever become in effect. But Subhan'Allah...Allah is the Best of Planners, even when things seem scary at times. This is my test...and although censorship is widespread there, I hope that this new blog will get through it and depict a picture of radiant images in your mind of Madinah, and informative links on hijrah as it relates to Madinah or as it relates to hijrah for Allah Alone.

As I've mentioned before, utopia is not to be found here on Earth, but perhaps contenment in one's heart is the real utoptia of this world that we must try to find..and one can only do so by worshipping Allah as they should insha'Allah..

May Allah guide us all, and grant us the means of living pious lives following the footsteps of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). May Allah accept these efforts from me and accept our efforts in striving for His Cause...because that is the only way Utopia will be acheived inshaAllah...

Fi'amanAllah, I leave you by the Protection of Allah...
Suhaa

My Hijrah Insha'Allah

2006-12-25T21:50:00.000-05:00

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat Allah Wabarakatu:

Lots going on around here...and anything that falls under the category of moving to another country is what's going on now. Insha'Allah my family and I- meaning husband and 4 small kids-are skipping the only home I've ever known, the US to a land in which the complete opposite is emphasized in so many ways. The ultimate "pro" is that the place God-willing we're heading to is Madinah Munawarra, the 2nd holiest city for Muslims. The ultimate "con" is leaving my dear parents whom I've been near and close to pretty much all my life...and leaving my new baby nephew, brother and sis-in law. Not to mention my daughter's hearing care services. Insha'Allah *God-willing, our lives will be different, but life should never be about life itself, it should be about making the grade that earns us increased Mercy from the Most Merciful, Ar-Rahman..leading to a placement in the Hereafter.

So in a few days insha'Allah, between all the crazy emotions of ending my life here for now, and objectively preparing for this endeavor in the luminous city of Madinah, insha'Allah, I hope to introduce to you my new place on the web depicting a hijrah to Madinah, 2007 style. From the most "powerful" country in the world to the most sincere and perhaps righteous place on Earth.

I know, some of you are probably thinking that there is no such place of perfection. That is so true, utopia only happens in Jannah/Paradise. But Allah has created beautiful virtues for every place on Earth, and the feeling I had in Madinah...and that is shared with Muslims world-wide is a beautiful virtue that can be seen by the soul for those who truly seek guideance from Allah...and that is the most special kind of beauty there is.

May Allah always guide us and protect us from the materials of this donia...

Please keep me and my family (those going insha'Allah and those staying insha'Allah) in your duaa..

and don't forget it's Dhul-Hijjah so let's all have a bit more patience (especially ME!!!)

May Allah reward you all................

Wooden Spoon

2006-12-16T05:41:00.000-05:00

Having witnessed a debilitated man who was a professor, an author of many award-winning books, and a poet unable to utter one word; having been at the bedside of a 32 year old mother of a young boy unable to comb her hair or get a bowl of cereal ready for her child; having had the experience of changing diapers of elderly people in fear that they would lie there too long without the attention they deserve; and teaching a child how to play with a ball are experiences I am reminded of when reading this forward below. Every independent ability we are granted can be taken away...and most likely will be if we live long enough. Allah tells us in the Quran {22:5}:

"Oh mankind! If you are in doubt about the Resurrection, then verily! We have created you from dust, then from a Nutfah (mixed drops of male and female sexual discharge i.e. offspring of Adam), then from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood) then from a little lump of flesh, some formed and some unformed (miscarriage), that We may make clear to you (i.e. to show you Our Power and Ability to do what We will). And We cause whom We will to remain in the wombs for an appointed term, then We bring you out as infants, then give you growth that you may reach your age of full strength. And among you there is he who dies young, and among you there is he who is brought back to the miserable old age, so that he knows nothing after having known. And you see the earth barren, but when We send down rain on it, it is stirred to life, it swells and puts forth every lovely kind of growth."

That verse is the proof, and no doubt..you walk into any nursing home, any hospital, any school with children who have almost any sort of disability you will see the truth of this verse, whether you are a Muslim or not. For me, perhaps this was the verse that hit my heart so deep when I could no longer make sense of being with friends in their craziness one night and the next morning going in to help these people through my first days of this profession of occupational therapy. This was a decade ago, when I could see the clarity of it, and yet today I still find deeper meaning in this verse.

So as far as parents go, well even though I am a parent of four young children alhamdulilah...I know I still don't give my parents the attention they deserve. I honor them, but I am limited in how I can serve them due to my role as a mother and wife. So I am left to make duaa for them, to supplicate to Allah to show them Mercy, grant them Forgiveness, and overlook their faults granting them increased belief, patience, and righteousness as they grow older...as we all grow older, the best of the Hereafter. Ameen.

"And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour." {Quran, 17:23}

So read this, and even though this might be an extreme example for most practicing Muslims, it is the reality of many people in this society. I hate to say this, but this is also why there are so many nursing homes too in this country. May Allah guide us and remind us of the times when it us that were dependent on our parents. So when and if the time comes that they lose their independence..it shouldn't be a matter of deciding what to do with them, but it should be a matter of something that is a given. This is the least that can be done for all the hardships they went through in raising us..and still that wouldn't count for much. Allah is the Witness.
Read this forward I just got.

THE WOODEN BOWEL
A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and a four-year old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together nightly at the dinner table. But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating rather difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass often milk spilled on the tablecloth. The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. "We must do something about grandfather," said the son. I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor. So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner at the dinner table. Since grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. Sometimes when the family glanced in grandfather's direction, he had a tear in his eye as he ate alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food. The four-year-old watched it all in silence.
One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, "What are you making?" Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and mama to eat your food from when I grow up." The four-year-old smiled and went back to work. The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done. That evening the husband took grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table.
For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled. Children are remarkably perceptive. Their eyes ever observe, their ears ever listen, and their minds ever process the messages they absorb. If they see us patiently provide a happy home atmosphere for family members, they will imitate that attitude for the rest of their lives. The wise parent realizes that every day that building blocks are being laid for the child's future.
Let us all be wise builders and role models. Take care of yourself, ... and those you love, ... today, and everyday!

Dues of Clarity

2006-12-08T21:56:00.000-05:00

Whatever problem, situation, stress or hardship we face...we need to know, accept, and strive to pass the one true thing about this life: it's nothing but a test. So through your tears, my heart, our beings, and the breaths we take, know that nothing is true if it's not from within. Rather than mourn the difficulty, which seems to be an obvious right, let's be reminded that it is those off-moments of life that are a stepping ground to where the door of utopia opens up. don't cry so much as to refuse the plunge, cry only to let those poisonous tremorring thoughts out. our souls will be purified if our intention is clear. Clarity arrives after the haul of effort. No matter where I am, or where you are, whoever you are, and whoever I am...Allah will test you be it you are Muslim or not. Allah is Al-Muhaymin, the Protector...so who are you to deny that? and who am I not to trust?

May Allah guide us, grant us patience with trials, and firm our souls on faith so that we are of the successful...in the Hereafter, and in this struggling life. All Praise is due to Him alone. Do we pay enough dues?

"Surely, We shall continue to test you, till We know the ones who struggle hard for Allah and remain steadfast; and We will TEST you in all your affairs!" {Quran, 47:31}

Kid Talk

2006-11-28T17:58:00.000-05:00

My daughter, Mercy, who's in KG shared with me an interesting conversation with another girls in her class.

Mercy: "My mom's here, I see her car!"

Classmate: "Why does your mother always wear that thing on her head?"

Mercy: "Because she's Muslim, and that's what Muslim ladies wear."

Classmate: "They can only be your color (pointing to Mercy's arm).

Mercy: "No, Muslims can be brown too!"

Mercy is 5 & 1/2 , while her friend is 6 & few months.

(Just to complete the picture for you, her classmate is very light skinned, and Mercy is white but darker than her..for whatever that means!!)

"Oh people! Verily, We have created you of male and female, and made you races and tribes that ye may know each other. Verily, the most honourable of you in the sight of God is the most pious of you; verily, God is All-Knowing, All-Aware!"

{Quran, 49:13}

Message from Imam Masood

2006-11-20T07:10:00.000-05:00

Sunday, Nov 19 Update
A message from Imam Masood to the community was obtained through a phone conversation with Imam Masood. {read below}

Some of the treatment concerns that the Imams had were resolved. MAS will continue to communicate with the immigration officials to help ensure that the Imams are well treated.

The Imams were unable to obtain a Quran, and were separated from each other.

MAS Freedom is made aware of other individuals (many in the same location as Imam Masood) who were detained in the same day for immigration violations.

One brother “NM” has a family of 4 children. He is not on religious visa. MAS Freedom is providing financial assistance for families and legal representation for these individuals.

Please help support this effort by donating generously. Prophet Muhammad PBUH said: ”Allah comes to the aid of those who come to the aid of others”.

please click the title above to donate to the Muslim Legal Defense Fund, and find out other ways to help inshaAllah. Below is a letter my girls wrote in hopes to put a smile on his face. May Allah reward you, and facilitate ease for our Ummah...granting patience and steadfast in living life and facing hardships through the worship of our Creator.

A Message From Imam Masood on Sunday Nov 19 Night
This is a message and advise to the community received from Imam Masood by phone on Sunday Nov 19th 8:15 pm:

"I am grateful to Allah SWT for all his blessings. I am also grateful to my brothers and sisters for their support. I advise myself and everyone to fear Allah, and be righteous. I ask you to make Dua, and pray, not only for me, but for all those in the world who are going through difficulties, some much more than what we are experiencing. Please do not underestimate the power of the Dua and supplication to Allah SWT.
Your brother, Hafiz Masood

from my girls (hope you'll get your kids involved too inshaAllah)

"Asalaam Alaikum.

Dear Imam Masood

We are making duaa for you, your son and all the Muslims like you taught us too. We hope you get out of jail soon inshaAllah. We love you so much. We feel bad that you are in jail, because you were my favorite teacher. Thank you for always being at the masjid, but we miss you so much now. Thank you for teaching us how to be good people. You always made me laugh in school. We hope Allah will protect you and all the Muslims in trouble. We love you. We hope you get out of jail soon, inshaAllah."

Sign, 7yrs. old in 2nd grade
Mercy, 5yrs. old in KG

May Allah unite our Ummah..

Please Sign

2006-11-19T13:39:00.000-05:00

http://www.petitiononline.com/ImamsMA/

but more importantly, make duaa.
may Allah reward you for doing so..

remember what Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us:

"Whoever relieves a believer of distress in this world, Allah will relieve him of some of the distress of the Day of Resurrection. Whoever makes things easy for those who are in difficulty, Allah will make things easy for him in this world and in the next. Whoever conceals (the faults of) a Muslim in this world, Allah will conceal him (his faults) in this world and in the Hereafter. Allah will help the slave so long as the slave helps his brother."

[Mishkaat al-Masaabeeh, 1/71, hadith no. 204.]

NO CHARGES, but JAIL

2006-11-17T19:57:00.000-05:00

I was at Imam Masood's house today visiting for a few minutes with his wife and one of his daughters. They are people of faith, barely words spoken, faces with hope for Allah's Help. Please do whatever you can. Even if you don't know these people, please make duaa for them. Even if you have heard just one good thing about this Imam please write to the officials below. This is an attack against Islam. He has not been allowed to even speak with his family. There is not even a consideration of bail at this point. He has no criminal record, and has been here for nearly 20 years. Take this personally, and if you are on the side of justice then contact, donate, and pray that Allah grants his family patience and them protection. Funny thing how they say "innocent until proven guilty". May Allah show no mercy on the oppressors here, and oppressors everywhere. Ameen.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In the Name of God, The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful

ALERT: UPDATE ON INTIMIDATION AND ARREST OF IMAMS OF ICNE AND ISGL, MAS Boston Freedom Foundation Islam Center of New England – www.icne.net

Update on Intimidation and Arrest of Imams of ICNE and ISGL Imam Masood (Islamic Center of New England, Sharon), his son (Hassan) and Imam Abdul Hannan (Islamic Center of Greater Lowell) were arrested by immigration officials Wednesday on alleged immigration violations. No criminal charges have been brought even though it was claimed that this was related to an immigration fraud ring around the Northeast. But at most, Imam Masood has been charged with a minor administrative technicality. MAS Boston and ICNE leaders have been speaking to the lawyer, and the families to provide much needed support.Press releases have been sent (see www.masboston. org). MAS Boston has provided interviews with NPR, the Boston Globe, and local media to present the strong Muslim community support for their leaders and their outrage over their treatment. MAS Boston leaders met with Immigration officials, officials from the Attorney General's office, the FBI, and other law enforcement officials to strongly express the community's outrage and support for their leaders - demanding that they allow the Imams to post bail, that they give them access to proper Muslim food and prayer facilities, and that they resolve this in a speedy manner to avoid further aggravating a very frustrated Muslim community.Immigration officials came in large numbers to this meeting and resolved to work to accommodate these demandsImmigration officials agreed to arrange for MAS Boston President,Masjid/board representative, and a few family members to visit the Imamstoday to ensure that they are in safe and appropriate conditions.Check www.masboston. org frequently for more detailed information, recent news articles, and more on what you can do to help.

ACTION REQUESTED
1. Pray for the safe and speedy release of both Imams.
2. Contact your local representative and MA Senators, (a) to inform them of the situation, (b) ask them to help ensure the fair, speedy, and respectable treatment of the Imams.
Senator Edward Kennedy (617)565 3170
Request to speak to Tom Cohan, (ext. 119)
Senator John Kerry (617) 565-8519
Request to speak to Carmen Velazquez3.
Plan to come out in a show of support for the imams on the hearing at the JFK Building on the third floor on
Tuesday 8:30 AM.

The more people that come, the stronger the message to officials that Muslims will not sit idly by and accept intimidation. More details of this will be sent soon. Please help MAS Freedom to continue to defend and empower our community. Your contributions will allow us to help the families, pay for legal fees, and increase our ability to support the community. Your tax deductible donations can be mailed to MAS Boston, 1 Broadway, Third Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142 OR given online at www.masboston. org

The Imam

2006-11-16T21:02:00.000-05:00

http://www.icne.net/

Please read this, and make duaa for him and his family. This is a test for all of us. Then ask yourself something, who do you think will be next? Are we hypocrites that we could care less and ignore situation after situation without flinching? Who do we fear more the people or Allah? Who do we trust more, society or Allah? Who do we love more our nationality or our Islamic creed? We all live on the land of Allah, but we all don't follow His Way. Wake-up your pulses, Warm up your hearts..and realize something. Realize that Allah has it all Planned out.. serenity and destruction. Which side will we be on?

Please make duaa for this Imam, his family, and leaders across the world that are even in more severe situations. This is just the icing of the cake..and yet I pray not for a domino affect of this situation.
It's not about immigration. It's about belief. Allah is watching you, and knows the inner secrets of your soul.

Oh Allah purify our intentions....and protect our Muslims brothers and sisters who suffer continuously, and forgive us for our arrogance, pride, and the meat we eat carelessly. We are of the losers if you show no Mercy upon us. So accept our plea, and our duaa that we make for our Muslim Ummah that is filled with believers who struggle. Grant them patience, steadfast, taqwa and eman..
Ameen.

High-School Article

2006-11-09T14:38:00.000-05:00

Hello to all and Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat Allah to the Ummah,

Soon after Eid, our Muslim holiday that follows the holy month of Ramadan, my husband forwarded me some questions via email that had been sent to him by a neighboring high-school student of the university he works at. She must have found his name in the university directory or something. This young lady, Nadia Jennings is a writer for her school paper called "The Villager" of Westport High School. I jumped on this, and she ended up giving me a call, and we exchanged emails so I can help explain points of Islam that she would present. I asked her for permission to put it here in hopes to spread the reality of Islam further..so this is more for you who aren't Muslim but just want the highlighted basics of what Islam is all about. Although she is totally cool with revealing her name, I am not! So wherever my real name was placed, it was modified to my nickname of "Suhaa".

ISLAM
by Nadia Jennings
11/06
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The religion of Islam is used to put together a life that reflects the guidance of God.

Suhaa, a Muslim woman, explained how her absolute devotion to God (Allah) was the most important aspect of her life. “There is one God and my day to day life revolves around getting closer to God,” she said. “The biggest thing about Islam, that a devoted Muslim holds true, is that everything is completed through worship of God.”

According to crystalinks.com/islamic.html, the Islamic belief is understood in the teachings of God (Allah) through His Last Messenger Muhammad. “The will of Allah, to which man must submit, is made known through the sacred scriptures, the Qur'an (Koran), which Allah revealed to His Messenger, Muhammad,” www.crystalinks.com/Islamic.html said. “In Islam, Muhammad is considered the last of a series of prophets (including Adam, Noah, Jesus, and others), and his message simultaneously consummates and abrogates the "revelations" attributed to earlier prophets.”

The Qur’an, according to spaceandmotion.com, is the sacred book of Islam in which Muslim’s use as a personal guide through life. “The Qur'an (Koran) is the sacred book of Islam,” spaceandmotion.com said. “Muslims believe that the Qur'an available today is the same as that revealed to Prophet Muhammad and by him to his followers, who memorized his words... Muslims assert that the main written record of revelation to mankind is the Qur'an, which they believe to be flawless, immutable and the final revelation of God…The Qur'an is regarded as an infallible guide to personal piety and community life, and completely true in its history and science.”

According to spaceandmotion.com, Muslims also follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. “The Qur'an is the foremost source of Islamic jurisprudence; the second is the Sunnah (the practices of the Prophet, as narrated in reports of his life). The Sunnah is not itself a text like the Qur'an, but is extracted by analysis of the Hadith (Arabic for "report") texts, which contain narrations of the Prophet's sayings, deeds, and actions of his companions he approved.”

Suhaa explained the role Islam had in her life. “I try to apply Islam throughout my life by following the teachings of the Holy Quran and the lifestyle of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him),” she said.

According to www.spaceandmotion.com, the Five Pillars of Islam are the fundamental aspects of the Islamic religion.
“These five pillars are the most important obligations of a Muslim under Sharia law, and which devout all Muslims will perform faithfully, because they are essential to pleasing Allah.”

According to www.spaceandmotion.com, they explain the Five Pillars of Islam and how it affects Muslim spiritual life. “The Five Pillars of Islam is expressed in the Quran (Koran), which is a practical doctrine that encourages Muslims to pray 5 times a day, fast during Ramadan, pilgrimage to Mecca, declare 'There is no god but God, and Muhammad is his prophet' and pay money to the poor,” spaceandmotion.com said.

According to www.icbwayland.org , there holds information on how Muslim’s live their life’s according to their Islamic belief’s.
"Islam is an Arabic word which means peace and submission,” the website said. “As a religion, Islam calls for complete acceptance of the teachings and guidance of God (Allah). A Muslim is one who freely and willingly accepts the supreme power of God and strives to organize his or her life in total accord with the teachings of God. He or she also works for building social institutions that reflect the guidance of God.”

Farah Khan, who is a Muslim, explained how the Islamic religion has affect on their daily actions. “Islam is a religion, as well as a way of life, thus Muslims practice their beliefs through the way they live their daily lives,” she said. According to Khan anyone who accepts the teachings of Islam may be accepted. “All it takes to become a Muslim is to affirm the fundamental beliefs and to declare verbally one's acceptance to God-by saying: “I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship but God, and that Muhammad is the final prophet of God,”” she said. “This is all it takes to become Muslim. No witnesses are required, and there are no further complications. Once one has affirmed their beliefs and has verbally declared one's acceptance of Islam, they are Muslim.”

Khan said that both women and men share different roles in the Islamic religion, although spiritual they are equal. “Men and women are spiritually equal in Islam; superiority is only by piety,” she said. “Both men and women are expected to believe the same, and to perform the same 5 pillars (although there are some differences in some of the lesser details). Each gender has certain strengths and unique traits, and there are some differences based on this. Many of the details of the roles of men and women vary widely between different Muslim societies.”

Suhaa explained how responsibilities are broken into
segments to create a successful family. “There are certain rules for men and women in order to create a partnership,” she said. “It works in harmony with one another. Everyone is held accountable for his or her personal actions. That is what we call equality.”

Khan said that Muslims views of the afterlife surround the Day of Judgment. “Muslims believe that this world will one day come to an end, and all human beings will be brought back to life to face judgment for their lives: their choices, their beliefs, words and actions,” she said. “After judgment, there is eternal life. Heaven is a place of eternal bliss, and Hell is a place of eternal suffering.”

Suhaa explained how Islam is not just a religion but also a way of life, through the Sharia law. “We are taught specific ways on how to deal with various issues,” she said “For example when dealing with people {in agreements} there is a contract that needs to be signed. There are restrictions on alcohol and certain foods. There are certain ways that men dress and women dress. It is like a constitution, a rule to live by. They do not restrict us, but are meant to guide us. It is a social law, found in the Qur’an. It holds specific things to do on a daily basis.”

Another Death

2006-10-31T13:16:00.000-05:00

Asalaam Alaikum Warhmat Allah,

Just a short post to remind everyone to turn to Truth to ALLAH. We are all created by Allah and we will all return to Him for accountability. The community I live in has faced so many deaths of young people over the past few years. Malik Al-Mout (Angel of Death) has taken yet another young soul away. May Allah make this and all deaths as a reminder that in this life nothing and no one will last forever, and let it be a reminder to us that every tiny spec of a deed good or bad will be judged. May Allah grant Muslims peace who are alive and peace who are now dead..surely we will all die and surely we will all rise again. Let us encourage one another towards goodness and beleif that there is only One God and that Muhammad is the last Messenger. Do not shy away from the truth and let us fear Allah more than we fear our families, friends and this society.

People are celebrating death on halloween and others are mourning it, subhanAllah.

Inna Lillahi wa Inna Lillahi Rajiyoon.
We are all created by Allah, and to Allah we will all return.

"No soul can die except by Allah’s leave, and at a preordained time. We will bestow (the benefits) here (in this world) upon anyone who wants (the results and) rewards (of his effort) in this world. We will bestow (the benefits and the rewards) there (in the hereafter) upon anyone who desires the reward in the life after death. Soon, We will reward the grateful ones!"

{Quran, 3:145}

Every soul shall have to taste death! The day of Resurrection is when you can and shall receive your dues to the fullest extent the consequence of your deeds. That Day, whoever is pulled away from hell, and is ushered into the paradise, will really have triumphed. The life of this world is nothing but an illusive enjoyment, a mere deception.

{Quran, 3:185}

Niqab Debate

2006-10-28T16:57:00.000-05:00

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat ALLAH & Greetings to all of You..I have many things I'd like to address here in reflection to what has happened during Ramadan for Muslims around the world, but I need to address this right now and share this article with all of you. If you are Muslim please read this, and if you are not, please read this!! Islam is real and we all need to be educated, and even further educated of what the Truth of Islam is. SO read this attentively, and my Muslim brothers and sisters think twice before saying something is more cultural than religious. To my readers of all faiths please know who we are as people, we are those who have families and people who strive for righteousness. Please recognize me and women who cover as those who strive to worship God, not because of our husband's order, but that of God's. Be advised and remember this next time you see a woman covering her face, she is a social being and requests that you view her for what is in her mind and not the beauty that she hides from you (that goes for some of us Muslims too!) (please click on the title above to read more of the article below)

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Important advice to the Muslim community in light of the debate over the veil
Sunday, 15 October 2006

All praise is due to Allah and may His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and all his Companions.

In light of the ongoing debate over the veil and the comments made by Jack Straw and others, we the undersigned would like to present the following important advice to the Muslim community here in the UK, irrespective of school of thought, sect or organisation.

1. The Muslim community should remain united regardless of its differences and opinions about the veil. This request is in response to the countless number of Quranic and Prophetic traditions that command Muslims to be united. Among these is the Quranic verse that says, ‘Hold fast, all together, to the rope of Allah and do not be disunited.
"Hold fast, all together, to the rope of Allah and do not be disunited. " [Quran, 3:103]

2. We strongly condemn any attempt by any individual or organisation to create disunity in the Muslim community. We see such a move as an attempt to create friction and disruption in the whole society through indirect discrimination. It is the nature of modern pluralistic societies to be constituted from different communities coexisting peacefully as a single political entity. It is completely irrational, when trying to achieve community cohesion, to instigate disunity and racial tension.

3. The veil, irrespective of its specific juristic rulings, is an Islamic practice and not a cultural or a customary one as is agreed by the consensus of Muslim scholars; it is not open to debate.

The veil, irrespective of its specific juristic rulings, is an Islamic practice and not a cultural or a customary one as is agreed by the consensus of Muslim scholars; it is not open to debate.
We advise all Muslims to exercise extreme caution in this issue, since denying any part of Islam may lead to disbelief. Not practicing something enjoined by Allah and His Messenger (Salla-Allahu alaihi wa sallam) - regardless its legal status (i.e., whether obligatory, recommended or praiseworthy) - is a shortcoming; denying it is much more serious. Allah says in the Qur’an: ‘It is not for a believer, man or woman, that they should have any option in their decision when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter. And whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger has indeed strayed in a plain error.’ [translation of 33:36]

4. We recognise the fact that Muslims hold different views regarding the veil, but we urge all members of the Muslim community to keep this debate within the realms of scholarly discussion amongst the people of knowledge and authority in the Muslim community. Allah says in the Qur’an, ‘When there comes to them news of some matter touching (public) safety or fear, they spread it (among the people); if only they had referred it to the Messenger or to those charged with authority among them, the proper investigators would have understood it from them (directly).’ [translation of 4:83] In another Quranic verse, we read the following instruction, ‘So ask those who know if you know not.’ [translation of 16:43 and 21:7]

5. Furthermore, we warn Muslim individuals and organisations to avoid seeking to capitalise on this debate in order to further political or personal interests. Such despicable tactics are judged by Islam as working against the interests of our faith and the Muslim community, and are, accordingly, a matter condemned in the strongest possible terms. Allah says in the Qur’an, ‘The believers, men and women, are Awliya' (allies, helpers, friends, protectors) of one another.’ [translation of 9:71] The Prophet (Salla-Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said, ‘A Muslim is the brother of a Muslim; he does not oppress him, betray him, mislead or fail him.’

6. We would like to call upon all members of the Muslim community to show solidarity against criticising the veil or any other Islamic practice as this might prove to be a stepping-stone towards further restrictions. Today the veil, tomorrow it could be the beard, jilbab and thereafter the head-scarf!
Today the veil, tomorrow it could be the beard, jilbab and thereafter the head-scarf!

Such a strategy, unfortunately, has been widely used by many European countries. Similarly, we feel that this campaign may be employed to gauge the response of the Muslim community. Therefore, our reply should be firm, sending a clear and powerful message to those who are trying to promote the banning of the veil or any other common Islamic practice. We, the Muslim community, will not tolerate such attitudes nor will we compromise on our values and common customs. All Muslim women, especially those who wear the veil, should play a major role in this response since their voice will be the most effective.

7. We understand the viewpoint of those who may find the veil a barrier to communication. However, we believe that the level of discomfort caused is insignificant, particularly when compared to the discomfort and problems that result from other common and less widely condemned practices such as sexual promiscuity, nudity and alcohol consumption by other segments of society. Moreover, we feel that it is against the interests of the whole society to single out a significant part of it, such as the Muslim community, or to put them under the spotlight and abuse them for their practices, as is now an oft- recurring theme in the media.

8. The unexpected and ruthless reaction of the media over the past few weeks on this issue gives an indication that there is a political agenda behind this campaign. It is very disappointing that the media and many politicians dealt with this issue as if it is the greatest national concern. This becomes more apparent when observing the already tense climate facing Muslims, which is contributing towards creating hostility in the wider society against the Muslim community. Therefore, Muslims should take this matter seriously and defend the veil with all their ability. This could be a battle of 'to be or not to be' for Muslims in the UK. We urge all brothers and sisters to strive in countering these attacks by utilising the various avenues open to them we urge all brothers and sisters to strive in countering these attacks by utilising the various avenues open to them
including sending letters to the relevant authorities, their MPs, human rights activists, and so on. The most important guideline to observe is to react in a wise, sensible and responsible manner and avoid any action that might be used as an excuse for furthering any unfavourable agenda.

9. We would like to advise the sisters who observe the veil/ niqab in the work-place or in educational premises to avoid making it a matter of dispute between them and their employers or school authority. Such disputes will attract more unnecessary media attention, and thus may cause various negative consequences including the imposition of certain dress codes in work places, and in turn, used as justification to legislate further restrictions on wearing it in other areas.

10. Finally, let it be noted that we appreciate the noticeable level of understanding and tolerance shown by considerable parts of the wider society towards many Islamic practices. However, we ask all society to deal with the Muslim community without prejudice, and to exercise genuine openness and tolerance towards Islamic practices, even those they may not like, as this is the real test of tolerance to others.
we appreciate the noticeable level of understanding and tolerance shown by considerable parts of the wider society towards many Islamic practices. However, we ask all society to deal with the Muslim community without prejudice, and to exercise genuine openness and tolerance towards Islamic practices, even those they may not like, as this is the real test of tolerance to others.

Furthermore, we urge people to be supportive for a woman’s right to wear the veil as on one hand, this complies with the values upon which western civilization was founded - the protection of human and religious rights; and on the other hand, these practices aim to promote values of modesty, decency and good-manners all of which should be the aspiration of any peaceful society.

We conclude by asking Almighty Allah to guide us to that which is better and to make truth and justice prevail in British society as a whole.

25th Ramadan 1427
17Th October 2006
Signed (in alphabetical order):1. Dr Daud AbdullahDeputy Secretary General, Muslim Council of Britain (MCB)2. Khurram Bashir AminTrustee and Editor, Monthly Dawn, Central Mosque, Birmingham3. Munir AshiChairman, Dar ul-Isra Islamic Centre, Cardiff 4. Dr Muhammad Abdul BariSecretary General, Muslim Council of Britain (MCB)5. Shakeel BeggImam, Lewisham Mosque, London6. Mufti Mohammed Zubair ButtSharia Adviser, Institute of Islamic Jurisprudence, Bradford7. Moulana Ilyas DalalHead teacher, Ilaahi Masjid, Dewsbury8. Dr. Khalid FekryImam, al-Taqwa Organization, London9. Sulaiman GaniLecturer in Islamic Studies, Tooting Islamic Centre, London10. Moosa GoraIslamic Scholar, Jame Mosque Batley, West Yorkshire11. Shaykh Haitham Al-HaddadDirector of Muslim Research and Development Foundation (MRDF), London12. Dr. Suhaib HasanSecretary, Islamic Sharia Council U.K. & Ireland; Chairman, Masjid and Madrasa Al-Tawhid Trust, London13. Muhammad ibn IsmailImam, Al-Medinah Masjid, Brighton14. Hafeezullah KhanEditor-in-chief, Sirat-e-Mustaqeem, Monthly Magazine, Birmingham15. Dr Khalid KhanImam, Lambeth Islamic Cultural Centre, London16. Wakkas KhanPresident, Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOSIS)17. Shaykh Amjad MohammedHead Teacher of Olive Secondary School, Bradford18. Shaykh Ashraf OsmaniImam, Markazi Masjid Northampton (MMN), Northampton19. Ismail PatelChairman, Friends of Al-Aqsa, Leicester20. S. M. Abdul QayumHead Imam and Khateeb, East London Mosque, London21. Abdul Fattah SaadDirector of al-Muntada al-Islami Trust, London22. Qari Zakaullah SaleemImam, Green Lane Mosque, Birmingham.23. Massoud ShadjarehChair, Islamic Human Rights Commission24. Mohammad SawalhaPresident, British Muslim Initiative (BMI), London25. Shaykh Haytham TamimChairman of Utrujj Foundation, Educational, Training and Research Institute, London26. Mawlana Abdul Hadi UmriPresident - Islamic Judiciary Board, Birmingham27. Dr Imran WaheedRepresentative of Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain, London

It's Ramadan

2006-09-22T15:52:00.000-05:00

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat ALLAH Dear Muslims and Special Greetings to everyone,

Saudia Arabia has announced the sighting of the new moon, which means the 9th month of the lunar year calandar. So in our community we will be fasting, as well as (hopefully) Muslims everywhere else. This month called Ramadan is a month that Muslims around the world will partake in what we believe is ordained upon humanity. To worship the Only One God through fasting, and purifying our souls through focussing our lives on the purpose of life itself, and by ridding of all its distractions.

As much as this blogging has been intended to lay the truth of Islam through my research and personal experiences as a Muslimah in the West, there are other things I need to focus on. So my blogging, amongst other things during this month will stop God-willing.

I pray that every Muslim benefits from these days and that we do not forget the well known authentic hadith that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has taught us that the first 10 days Allah releases more of His Mercy, the 2nd ten, He distributes His Forgiveness, and the last 10 days He frees people from Hell-Fire. I also pray that He does this to people to maybe you..who are on the verge of doing an extra deed by wearing a headscarf, or do something to change your life positively like embrace Islam as yours. These things are between each soul and the Creator of all souls.

May Allah bring us all closer to Truth no matter who you are (or I am) and that we take advantage of these special days.

Ramadan Mubarak to all of you.

Your Sister, Suhaa.

"Oh you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become God-fearing."

(Noble Quran, 2:183)

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

"Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven. Whoever prays during the nights in Ramadan with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven. And he who passes Lailat al-Qadr (The Night of Power) in prayer with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven." (authentic saying: Bukhari)

Wass'Wassa

2006-09-19T20:03:00.000-05:00

I hate you. I despise your arrogance when you instill criminal thoughts in the hearts of my race, my human race. To the beggar’s face you kick dirt in their eyes, to the oppressed babies you deprive them of warm arms. Rejoicing at the sound of gossip or the view of hostile neighbors. Laughing when blood is pouring forth and patience is absent. You grow on jealousy between siblings, and an illegal 2nd glance on a billboard is all it takes to motivate you further. Well to you, and to all your slaves, I say go to HELL. Just because you seem to be the norm, does not make your mischief a popular vote on Judgment Day. You are a Loser stealing a mind here, or a heart there. But never will you steal the soul of which is protected and guarded by sincere intentions of seeking Allah. Praises belong to Allah for in a few days you’ll be locked up. Ramadan is a blessing for us, against you. I vow to your Creator who gave you Jannah, (but blew it with your egotism) to rebel against you and against what you have taught me throughout my 30 years of life. I pray that Allah gives Muslims the strength to hate everything about you, even those tiny sly incidents that seem trivial. I pray that Allah grants non-Muslims the courage to accept Islam as their own. Ramadan is the month we are given to rectify our wrongdoings and God-willing it is easier to do so than any other month. So to you Loser, don’t even think of coming near my family, brothers, my sisters, and me it’s not going to happen. Hurting us in Palestine, Afghanistan, South Africa and the West is long gone for this month. So I pray to Allah to protect the Muslims from committing faults, as the burden of The Cursed Satan, Iblees is gone for a while. Iblees if you are reading this: GET LOST, WE HATE YOU. We seek refuge in Allah from the Cursed Satan. Ameen.

Hey LOSER, I’m going to pray Ishaa..and I will fight your Wass’Wassa whispers by knowing that Allah is Watching me..can't wait until you are chained up.

"Satan threatens you with poverty and bids you to inappropriate conduct. God promises you His forgiveness and bounties. God cares for all and He knows all things."

~The Quran {2:268}

Political

2006-09-18T23:19:00.000-05:00

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat Allah and Hello Readers..

I haven't posted anything in a while because I've been so busy with everything life has entailed. I hope to have one post out before the start of Ramadan, God-willing, which is this very weekend.

I just came across this post that should be read by anyone claiming pride to be an American, and should be read by anyone living in the West really. Think twice before waving that US flag. I know lots of good come out of a place like the US. But we have to remember that just because we are here this doesn't translate in meaning we are blessed. We are all tested with what is given and what is taken away. Technology, freedom of religion, speech...and whatever else. Along with that comes the ugly too, and no, I'm not saying its a result of it but it does tag along..immorality, deceit, hypocricy. I'm not one to get into politics. But I am a Muslimah living in the West and it's affecting me..

9/11 was a wake-up call to enlighten the world of the horror that people across the world have been living prior, and continue to live today. I hate what happend then, and I hate the events of 9/11 even more today. But this is one of many issues that consumes me on a daily basis. I hate that people call Islam responsible, and I hate that some Muslims feel a desperation to do something so horrific. This is a World War III, or as Bush made reference to the Crusades...well I won't go there now.

This world is corrupted and continues to spiral down. I worry about my kids and babies being born. So rather than saying "God Bless America" I rather say God Protect Children. They will be at the forfront of this as they get older, but they are growing up with it..

Just read the link by clicking on the title above..

Prisoner Said..

2006-09-01T19:53:00.000-05:00

I read this today, and couldn't help but think...this land of freedom of democracy could be the land that strips me away from everything and everyone I love, (unfortunately I am not just singling out the US with that statement). It could have been my husband, father, or brother. May Allah give these men and their families strength, courage, and steadfast similar to that of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph-peace and blessings be upon him). For the Muslims out their..we need to supplicate more for the oppressed that they put their trust and reliance in Allah with patience. We will be asked of what we did to help our brothers and sisters. For the non-Muslims out there, hope you can see why some would say that this is not only a war against terrorism, its actually a war of terrorism's opponent, Islam.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Friday 08/25/06
From: Abu Qatada Ali Asad
To: Honorable Claude M. Hilton

"Your honor! Over this last year I’ve had the opportunity to attend a number of sentence hearings in this courtroom. I’ve learned that defendants are given the opportunity to make a statement which supposedly will be considered in the making of a final decision about their fate. The true purpose of this procedure is still unclear to me. Common sense tells me that a man at the verge of imprisonment would likely say whatever seems convenient to move the court towards a favorable decision for him. Most convicts will then use this opportunity to beg the court for a lesser sentence.

I, on the other hand, find hesitation in my heart to ask you to do that. This is truly not in the spirit of disrespecting the court but solely because truth is always clear like daylight and is not a matter of negotiations. If a person is guilty, he should admit so from the very beginning; and if from the beginning the person sincerely proclaims his innocence, he should not then turn to dishonesty and come to a sentencing hearing to then admit any guilt.

Your Honor! Today, standing in front of you and with Allah as my witness I tell everyone that I am innocent of what I am convicted and don’t deserve to spend a single day in prison. Today, as I am separated from my parents, my brother, sister, my wife, my children, students, and friends I say that God knows well I would never support terrorists.

I am not surprised the Government is asking for a lengthy sentence in the name of a crime I did not commit. It won’t be the first time that a person is wrongly accused and unjustly imprisoned. For the imprisonment of innocent people is as old as the so-called “civilization” itself. There is at least one person whose false imprisonment is not denied by those who follow the heavenly revealed scriptures, namely Jews, Christians, and Muslims. They all agree upon the truthfulness of this story, the life of Prophet Joseph (peace be upon him), who was imprisoned because he refused to obey his master’s wife.

He refused to agree to a false plea because it was against the command of His Lord even though he faced indefinite imprisonment. He was later released to eventually become the King of Egypt. True Justice always prevails. Rather than an “Islamic extremist” I am a man who believes in the message of the prophets and messengers and do not differentiate between them. And this is the religion that I follow.

The dishonest government of today is not much different from the wicked government who governed Egypt some 4,000 years ago. The only difference between the two is that those ancient governments did not imprison people in the name of “democracy” but rather they committed injustice without any pretext of law. On the contrary, these modern descendants of injustice make use of the false claims of honesty when they are acting unjustly. Allow me to explain. They first endorse the necessary unlawful laws that would justify their own unlawful practices and then “lawfully” imprison people like me. That is to say, the governments in the past were honest in their dishonesty and did not hide the fact that they were imprisoning people to safeguard their own interests, and not those of the community. But these modern disciples of injustice cast innocent people into prison to remove the so-called “threat” they feel from this 3rd grade teacher standing here today. In short, the rulers in the past were mere tyrants. Today’s rulers are also shameless liars.

The government stated that I am not here because of my beliefs, regardless of how despicable my beliefs are. Well, these prosecutors do not represent America. In fact, they are misleading American people and are a danger to the whole of society. And with great regret I say, their individualistic view to protect their careers by committing injustice against others will eventually bring this beautiful land down. Nations live as long as their justice does, when justice falls so does the nation.

Islam tells us to stand up against injustice. It is for this reason that I reject the opportunity to lie against myself and against others in exchange for a shorter sentence. And no matter what the result is today, I know that eventually the justice will prevail. Anyone who has transgressed against me in this trial should know that on the Day of Judgment I will not be happy till I take from them just as they have taken from me in this world. Those who have separated me from my parents, those who participated in making my children orphans, those who separated me from my brother, my sister, and everyone else, and those who have made my wife like a widow today, I pray to Allah to give you exactly what you have given me.

I am 29 years old. My elderly parents await my sentence knowing well that they may not live long enough to see my release. None feels more honorable than my mother who sits here in this courtroom with her head raised with pride and honor that her son did not break the principles that she instilled in him. Her advice remained, “Son, if you haven’t done anything wrong, you haven’t done anything wrong. It makes no difference if they offer you 4 years or 45 years. You haven’t done anything wrong, you haven’t done anything wrong.” But they grieve over the incarceration of their beloved son. If my parents die before my release, I ask them to plead and complain to Allah that a piece of our heart was taken away by the government of the United States of America because of some toy paintballs. Toy paintballs . . . the fate of which is unknown to both the government and the defense.

Lastly, Your honor! To tell you a little bit about myself, I was born in Lahore, Pakistan and went to one of the best primary schools there. I was later admitted to the best secondary school called Aitchison College. This school was built in 1876 at the time of the British colonization of the Indian subcontinent – way before the conflict in Kashmir ever started. I successfully finished 10th and 11th grades there and in 1994, came to United States. I finished high school at Watkins Mill High School in Gaithersburg, MD in 1995 and enrolled in Montgomery College, initially as a Criminal Justice major. That major changed to Information Systems and I finally graduated from the University of Maryland. I always maintained a job. I supported myself and my family. I worked hard to pay for my school and I never had to take any loan to pay for my tuition. I studied Arabic language and taught it to both Muslims and non-Muslims at As-Salik Arabic institute.

Twelve years have gone by and many things have changed in the world we live in, and a lot of changes have taken place in our lives. One thing however remains the same. No one ever received any harm either from my words or my actions. As my father frankly put it, “With all the allegations and witnesses the government produced in this trial, and with all the investigations and arrests that they have made, and with the billions of tax dollars that they have used against my son, not a single person on the face of the Earth came forward to testify that he even received a prick of thorn from my son Ali.”

The prosecutors suggested during the trial that these sentiments might be expected from a member of my family. But none put it more bluntly than the respected juror who convicted me when he told the Washington Post, that he thought the case “shouldn't have been brought at all. It was very insignificant." And he said the whole investigation was "way too minor, regardless of whether they convicted 11 people.” "

I thank my wife for standing next to me in these hard times and also the community that did not abandon me. I thank my parents to raise me the way they did and I am grateful to them.

SubhanakaAllahuma Wa bi Hamdik, Wa AshhaduAnLa Ilaha IlaAalh Wa Ashhadu AnaMuhammadan RasoolAllah
Thanks
Abu Qatada Ali Asad

(click above on the title to read more God-willing)

Anonymous

2006-08-30T19:59:00.000-05:00

Asalaam Alaikum Warahmat Allah Dear Muslims, Welcome Friends, and a special greeting to those who leave me comments here in hopes to defame, insult, and further destroy the beautiful stance of Islam by ignorant sayings, and arrogant thoughts....
I'm not sure who you are when any of you read this, but I know who I am, and I know that ALLAH is watching me, and HE KNOWS my intentions better than I know what they are, and yes even when it comes to blogging. Having started this back in January I intended on setting some things straight in hopes to enlighten people what Islam is and what it is not by sharing my knowledge and experiences as a Muslimah. I am fully aware that many people who come here are not Muslim yet hold true to many of Islamic teachings, respectfully. I am also quite aware that Islam is a gift implanted in hearts to people who sincerely strive to know Al- Khaliq, the One Creator. For this reason I have placed much hope in Allah that He will guide many people who have yet to embrace Islam, and draw Muslims like me and others closer to Him. This is a sincere supplication to God. So any Muslims out there reading this please say "AMEEN!".

There, having said all that, there are losers in this life who are full of themselves and wish to live as free spirits. All I have to say to that is "Whatever", and especially if you have no desire to seek the Truth. Something that I will never be able to get is this though. Why is it, you so-called free souls feel so above us (not just Muslims, but anyone believing in the monotheism of Allah?). Mother nature isn't going to save you, why would she if she follows the order of the One Who knows your status after death. What makes you feel so justified in transgressing the bounds just because it doesn't make sense to you?? What makes you think that just because something seems so backwards is wrong and because you feel good about something it's right? This type of gaining knowledge assumes you know it all..umm isn't that a bit too proud of yourself seeing that you don't have a clue what it is that regulates your own heart. Doctor, I don't care how high you are..stop and think. You call me a bigot towards the people of Lot, an oppressed little thing who's submissive without a voice, or anti-life entertainment because I've boycotted movies. You say I fight democracy, raise my kids in a bubble, and maybe because the West is the only place I've ever lived in call me brainwashed.

Well Mister, Ms., Mrs. or Miss Anonymous to you , and all of you hidden souls..when you can come and respectfully disagree in a way that does not aim at disgracing the one pure way of life prescribed for me and for you, then and only then will your stance be expressed here at my stance. Until then, just a few more words for you, and no doubt they are the most effective in getting this message across because they were meant for your heart to feel..so get rid of that numbness within you and feel the Signs all around you, and read Chapter 109 in the Noble Quran to get off my case, and perhaps to let guideance soften your heart.

"Say: "Oh Disbelievers

(disbelievers in Allâh, in His Oneness, in His Angels, in His Books, in His Messengers,

in the Day of Resurrection, and in Al-Qadar, etc.)!
I worship not that which you worship,
Nor will you worship that which I worship.
And I shall not worship that which you are worshipping.
Nor will you worship that which I worship.
To you be your religion, and to me my religion."

(Islâmic Monotheism).

Mouth Sealed

2006-08-25T09:31:00.000-05:00

People say "talk is cheap". Anyone can say anything, but saying something just for the sake of saying something can get us into trouble. This is why Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him taught us:

"Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should either say something good or keep silent."

(source: Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1376)

Muslim or not, don't we all say "If you don't have anything good to say, then don't say anything at all." Or at least its seems most people say it, so let's remember that and keep our mouths shut when we feel like exploding the most, or are in a mood for some gossipish entertainment that will do nothing but fry us deeper (really) and increase any vanity we already possess. We all know the right thing to do, so let's not be hypocrites.

May Allah guide Muslims and non-Muslims in accepting all that Allah has given humanity within the true teachings of Islam.

You Rebellious?

2006-08-14T19:35:00.000-05:00

I don't want to melt. I don't want to melt into society. Been there, done that. I don't want that for myself nor that of my children. To melt into society is to accept wrongdoings as a norm, and to accept corruption as a norm causes desensitization. Call me a fundamentalist, call me a "fascist", but don't call me an American, and don't call me an Egyptian either for that matter. I am nothing but Muslim. Stare if you want, but it would be great if you would keep your eyes connected to mine long enough for me to share a smile. I do speak your language, I do feel blessed although tested to be in the West, I am educated and contrary to what you think, I do respect many of you. My confusion rambles in constant wonder of the state of security you are in, or lack of concern what happens after death. I eat pizza and I love to kick back on the beach collecting seashells and rocks with my children. My flavor is that of astonishment to the creations I am indulged in there and everywhere. My backyard are kids fighting playfully and dragonflies floating around, landing on our hands and shoulders. How could I deny the Signs? How could you not take a second to reflect. It's not luck, and it's not you're hard work, do you know what it is that causes you to read this so comfortably? Highschool is over, it's not about fitting in with society, it's about fitting in with what is on the Right. I love beauty and I aspire for it, not for you to see, but for Allah to Witness. My costume is sacred as it is the shelter to my soul. This costume is fragile and needs the coat for its protection. Not from the sun, but from temptation and loss of modesty which is half of what I believe. You hear it, I hear read it. Everything is done for a reason. But what is that purpose? I won't share it with you, because somewhere deep down in your heart it was engraved, that knowledge. So why do you deny and fear others when the Truth is already with you? Who am I to judge you? Then again, who are you to judge me? What support is it you seek? Friends to share hobbies or outings that rebel against what is real to you? If selfish desires aren't foes, and reflecting for a sec is a hardship then why are you even reading this? Unblock the view and be for real, let the common sense pour into your heart and that is the only place you will find contenment with being "you" whoever it is you are and I am. Be content, not rebellious. Get those glances, don't take your soul for granted, be brave, be rebellious against the deserved things. Majority doesn't rule here..it's an image that will prove to be defeated on the Day. How are you rebellious? This way or that way?

"Verily, Allah is not ashamed to set forth a parable even of a mosquito or so much more when it is bigger than it. And as for those who believe, they know that it is the Truth from their Lord, but as for those who disbelieve, they say: "What did Allah intend by this parable?" By it He misleads many, and many He guides thereby. And He misleads thereby only those who are Al-Fasiqoon (the rebellious, disobedient to Allah)." {Quran, 2:36}

"Your Stone"

2006-08-03T05:16:00.000-05:00

Allah asks each of us, whoever you are and whatever background we have:

"...And what is wrong with you that you fight not in the Cause of Allah, and for those weak, illtreated and oppressed among men, women, and children, whose cry is: "Our Lord! Rescue us from this town whose people are oppressors; and raise for us from You one who will protect, and raise for us from You one who will help." {Quran 4:75}

Seriously, what is wrong with us?? Don't we know that supplication is the best tool to get what we want? Don't we want this corruption to end? Don't we beleive that the reward of the Hereafter is so much bigger than we can even contemplate? How many times did I or YOU ask Allah to help those being stripped of everything..did we ask Him last week, is once enough? What is it, out of sight of mind?? This excuse will not hold valid on Judgement Day. Don't we believe that this situation we see on the tube can be happening to us?

On a slightly different note , but along the same lines, I've been wanting to post lyrics of a song by Sami Yusuf & Outlandish that gave me chills once again yesterday as I was listening to it. (Um'Ibrahim beat me to it, check out her blog posting of them as with other notes too by clicking the title above). I see those war images in my mind of Muslims being killed at the cost of arrogance and tyranny, especially those children who look like those of my own, men with beards resembling my own husband, tall strong men like my brother- being carried away on planks, and women who look like my dear mother- who scream due to true anxiety that many of us may never experience in our lifetime; added to people like these are the entire Palestinian, Iraqi, the Lebanese civilizations who share my love for ALLAH (God) holding onto patience and their dignity. By definition I am an American Egyptian, but by heart I carry nationality of the oppressed nations...not the nation of those who oppress and dictate democracy in a hypocritical fashion, and glorify terrorism as justifiable concept on their own terms. May Allah grant the oppressed security in their faith, worship, and deny them from losing hoping and rememberance that all affairs will return to ALLAH for justice. Allah is the Most Just, Most Fair, Al-Hakeem, Al-Adl.

Try Not to Cry

by:

Sami Yusuf & Outlandish

You...you’re not aware...That we’re aware

Of your despair

Don’t show your tears

To your oppressor

Don’t show your tears

{Sami Yusuf}

Try not to cry little one

You’re not alone

I’ll stand by you

Try not to cry little one

My heart is your stone

I’ll throw with you

{Isam}

‘Ayn Jalut where David slew Goliath

This very same place that we be at

Passing through the sands of times

This land’s been the victim of countless crimes

From Crusaders and Mongolsto the present aggression

Then the Franks, now even a crueller oppression

If these walls could speak,imagine what would they say
For me in this path that I walk on there's only one way

Bullets may kill, bones may break

Still I throw stones like David before me and I say

{Sami Yusuf}

You...you’re not aware

That we’re aware

Of your despair

Your nightmares will end

This I promise, I promise

{Lenny}

No llores, no pierdas la feLa sed la calma el que haze

Agua de la arena

Y tu que te levantas con orgullo entre las piedras

Haz hecho mares de este polvo

Don’t cry, don’t lose faith

The one who made water come out of the sand

Is the one who quenches the thirst And you who rise proud from between the stones Have made oceans from this dust

{Waqas}

I throw stones at my eyes’cause for way too long

they’ve been dry plus they see what they shouldn’t

from oppressed babies to thighs

I throw stones at my tongue’cause it should really keep its peace I throw stones at my feet’cause

they stray and lead to defeat

A couple of big ones at my heart’cause

the thing is freezing cold

But my nafs is still alive and kicking

unstoppable and on a roll

I throw bricks at the devil so I’ll be sure to hit him

But first at the man in the mirror so I can chase out the venom

{Isam}

Hmm, a little boy shot in the head

Just another kid sent out to get some bread

Not the first murder nor the last

Again and again a repetition of the past

Since the very first day same story

Young ones, old ones, some glory

How can it be, has the whole world turned blind?

Or is it just ’cause it’s only affecting my kind?!

If these walls could speak, imagine what would they say

For me in this path that I walk on there’s only one way

Bullets may kill, bones may break

Still I throw stones like David before me and I say...

{Chorus}

Try not to cry little one

You’re not alone I’ll stand by you

Try not to cry little one

My heart is your stone, I'll throw with you, I'll throw with you"

Mercy

2006-07-29T12:01:00.000-05:00

Allah the Most deserving of Glorification, created concepts, such as Mercy, along with its implication, and examples of its existance. Acts of Mercy can be viewed through reflected upon viewing almost any scene of nature, children, and even people who are poverty struck. If we realize and truly believe that everything good comes from Allah we still will never be able to encompass the mass amount of Mercy He has produced for all of humanity. It's beyond intense. Subhan'Allah. He is Ar-Rahman. The Most Merciful. Allah is Al-Kareem. The Most Generous. But us idiotic creatures are those who complain regardless and we get so terribly impatient that we ignore the Mercy He that never stops granting!! Not just to Muslims, but non-Muslims and everything Allah has Designed & Created is blessed with His Mercy. Check out this hadith below, and think..what side of the fence are we on? Where do we consider ourselves to be? Are we too confident, or are we at a loss of hope? Another thing to think about is that Allah has only revealed one small part of Mercy...which to the person who reflects is actually pretty endless!

One of the Companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him, and them) named Abu-Huraira reported that heard our Prophet Muhammad, Allah's Last Messenger (pbuh) saying:

"Verily Allah created Mercy. The day He created it, He made it into one hundred parts. He withheld with Him ninety-nine parts, and sent its one part to all His creatures. Had the non-believer known of all the Mercy which is in the Hands of Allah, he would not lose hope of entering Paradise, and had the believer known of all the punishment which is present with Allah, he would not consider himself safe from the

Hell-Fire."

Prophet Muhammad

(Peace and Blessings Be Upon Him)

(~related by Imam Bukhari)

Seek It

2006-07-25T20:54:00.000-05:00

In the Name of Allah,

I get one of these below once a week..you all should subscribe to it God-willing. Whether you are a Muslim, just learning about it, or just interested in Islam. I couldnt resist but post this one because we all take things as if we are entitled to it and we all need to step back and acknowledge Who is the Source of every possession we 'supposedly' own! Isn't it amazing how little time we spend on asking Allah to forgive us yet we enjoy the Bounty He Grants us any opportunity we get, which pretty much is like all the time?! It's actually greedy of us if you think of it that we aren't as grateful as we need to be, and many of us don't even have a goal of becoming more grateful, as if we are grateful enough!! Subhan'Allah (All Glory belongs to Allah). This also reminds me of the hadith that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) says that being rich isn't about having the luxury and materials of this life, but its about having contentment in your soul. To have that contenment we need to feel Allah with us, not just know by the facts He is. SubhanAllah. I'm posting this one because I of all people need to be reminded of this. The story of Prophet Noah (Nuh-peace be upon him) never ceases to amaze me, even with my limited knowledge of who this pious servant of Allah really was. But I have an special interest in learning about him lately, that's not the point here though.

Read on!

"Qur'an, from the story of Nuh with his people:

"Next I appealed to them publicly; then I broadcast it to themand confided with them privately, proclaiming: 'Seek forgiveness from your Lord; He is so Forgiving. He causes the sky to send torrents down upon you and He supplies you with wealth and children, and grants you gardens and even grants you rivers."

- Surah Nuh, (Chapter Noah): 78/9-12

Lesson from these verses:
Whatever you are seeking in life,
knock on the doors of forgiveness
and they will both open.

Suggestions on how to implement: http://www.Powerworkshops.org

in the "Free Stuff" section.

With best wishes to see you succeed at the highest level! ~Muhammad Alshareef"

TRUST

2006-07-23T04:56:00.000-05:00

"If Allah helps you, none can overcome you; and if He forsakes you, who is there after Him that can help you? And in ALLAH Alone let believers put their TRUST." {3:160}

"And We have sent down to you the Book (this Quran) in truth, confirming the Scripture that came before it and Mohayminan (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it (old Scriptures). So judge between them by what Allah has revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging away from the truth that has come to you. To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way. If Allah willed, He would have made you one nation, but that He may test you in what He has given you; so strive as in a race in good deeds. The return of you all is to Allah; then He will inform you about that in which you used to differ." {5:48}

"Say: "Nothing shall ever happen to us except what Allah has ordained for us. He is our Maula (Lord, Helper and Protector)." And in Allah let the believers put their trust. "{9:51}

"I put my trust in Allah, my Lord and your Lord! There is not a moving creature but He has grasp of its forelock. Verily, my Lord is on the Straight Path (the Truth)". {11:56}

"And to Allah belongs the Ghaib (unseen) of the heavens and the earth, and to Him return all affairs for decision. So worship Him and put your trust in Him. And your Lord is not unaware of what you people do." {11:123}

Plan Change!

2006-07-21T05:06:00.000-05:00

"If Allah helps you, none can overcome you; and if He forsakes you, who is there after Him that can help you? And in ALLAH Alone let believers put their trust."

{Quran, 3:160}

From time to time within the past 6 months (and usually when the kids are asleep at night, but sometimes after the early dawn prayer) I've written about different things here on this blog in hopes to enlighten people by giving non-Muslims a reality check (quite politely ofcourse) of the true stance is on Islam. There have been few comments here and there positive and negative, and some moderated. Allah Knows what my intention was and is for these writings, He is All-Aware.

For now though, my direction in that little bit of time I have to complete this hobby, is to a bare minimum. There are other duties I have to be more committed too. Reading Quran, learning to read better in Arabic (much better), and learning how to be more patient with my children are just a few. All of these goes along with a major goal ahead of me, to homeschool!

God-willing I plan to homeschool for the first time. My 2nd grader is excited and I hope that Allah will facilitate ease on me and her. For KG and 1st Grade we enrolled her in an Islamic School. They were great at teaching her how to read, using strong a strong curriculum in Math too. The teachers were wonderful, Masha'Allah (what God wills). This academy, such as any place, has things to work on too, with Allahs's Will they could overcome these challenges. May Allah bless and guide the students there.

So our overall decision, which we made with Istikhaara (Prayer in Seeking Guideance), did not come quickly. It took lots of thought, research in its pros and cons (because there is no such thing as an ideal situation in any matter in this life-that only exists in Jannah/Paradise), and trust in Allah to help us choose what is best. Our choice to homeschool Sign is with the desire that it will nourish her personality with more confidence and strength as a growing Muslimah.

I understand that many people claim that homeschooling children limits them socially, and I am not here to fight that claim although I do not agree if an overall plan is set to seek means for interaction with peers. Homeschooling can be something that lasts up until college, but for us we just want to try it out for the next few months! (Insha'Allah). People wonder, and I wonder how this will be done with my 3 year old son around and their baby sister who's 14 months, I wonder too! In a classroom of 25 kids with 1 teacher there are distractions and perhaps on a larger scale. I know that there are at least 2 million homeschoolers out there and most of them are bigger families as well. I am not promising this will be easy on any of us, and I am not saying Sign will respond positively to it either. But I know that Allah will ask me on Judgement Day for the personality make-up of my children and what I did to protect them, encourage them, guide them in best they have potential for, and really know them too.

I believe lots of benefits can come out of both public and private schools for different reasons. I have only heard of what positive things may be fostered out of homeschooling, and for us its worth the shot. Every family is different, every child has different needs (so no, my other daughter Mercy will remain at her oral-deaf school for now, God-willing.) Who knows, maybe they'll go to a public school together next year, another Islamic school, or be homeschooled together, or even no school (may Allah forbid!). The point is none of us have a clue as to what will happen to us and the people we love from one day to the next, its through Allah's Wisdom that anything happens.

We have just finished the math placement test with Calvert Homeschool Curriculum, and have begun the enrollment process with Ad-Duha Institute which is also a homeschool curriculum for Islamic and Arabic studies. You can check out their websites below. Ad-Duha has a collaboration with Calvert so if you wanted you can order everything from Ad-Duha and deal with only them. They do not make a profit, but the benefit is that this may simplify things on the homeschooler by giving one contact(Muslims) instead of 2.

www.ad-duha.org
www.calvertschool.org

About the blogging break, inshaAllah (God-willing) I will try to copy and paste Verses from Quran and Sayings from Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This will be easier on your eyes and softer to your heart than just my words of my own, God-willing!

May God guide us all to the Straight Path.

Ameen.