New Year’s and Islam

Islamic ruling on celebrating and engaging in non-Islamic festivals > click here

It’s the time of the year when Muslims are getting involved in celebrations that have nothing to do with Islam. It’s the usual thing, they think that there’s no harm in taking part, that it would be considered rude to not congratulate the non-Muslims in their festivities, and that it doesn’t impact on their deen. This is not right and certainly not the right approach for a believer.

The strange thing is that Muslims will try and find all sorts of reasons to justify celebrating with the non-Muslims. They don’t see the difference between what Allah Has Granted us and what has been made up by disbelievers. Can you imagine the Prophet (pbuh) greeting non-Muslims with ‘Happy New Year’? No. So why do it yourselves?

The fatawa about celebrating non-Muslim festivals is agreed by the schools of thought in Islam (see fatawa link above), so rather than get involved in these festivities, why not actually spend a few minutes to find out what the Islamic ruling is? After all, we are Muslims and so should FOLLOW Islam.

The following hadiths are examples of how Muslims should not imitate the actions of non-Muslims.

On the authority of Abdullah ibn Amr ibn Aas who said: “The Messenger of Allah saw me wearing two saffron garments and he said: ‘Indeed these are from the dress of the Kuffaar so do not wear them.’ [Collected by Muslim (1/144), An-Nisaaee (2/298), Al-Haakim (4/190), and Ahmad in his Musnad (2/172, 164, 193, 207, and 211)]

At-Tirmidhi narrated that Ibn Abbas رضي الله عنه reported that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم said: “He is not one of us who imitates other than us. Do not imitate the Jews or the Christians.”

At-Tabarani and Abu Dawud narrated that Ibn Umar and Hudhayfah رضي الله عنه reported that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم said: “Whoever imitates a people, he is one of them.”

Al-Bayhaqi reported in his Sunan that Anas Bin Maalik رضي الله عنه said: “When the Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم came to Medina, the people had two holidays from the days of Jahiliyyah.”

He صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم said: “When I came to you, you had two days which you used to celebrate in Jahiliyyah. Allah سبحانه وتعالى has replaced them for you with better days, the days of slaughter (Adhaa) and the day of fitr.”

This is not about Muslims being segregated from society but more the opposite. This is about Muslims standing up and being identified as Muslims – not as though they have some confused fusion of identities. Islam is clear and Muslims need to be also. By being identified as Muslims, what Muslims stand for, what Islam stands for, you will gain respect from other Muslims, gain understanding and respect from non-Muslims and start to create societies where Muslims can be seen to have their place. This is about societies welcoming Muslims and Islam – it isn’t about eating into Islamic identity, which is what those Muslims are doing who are taking part in Christmas, Easter, Diwali, Hannukah and other non-Islamic festivals.

Explain to non-Muslims about Islamic values and how we celebrate on Eid. They are not aliens and will understand.

Muslims… you need to act like Muslims and BE Muslims, following Islam and showing everyone the beauty of Islam.

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Christmas and Islam: Christmas Advice to Muslims

Islamic ruling on celebrating and engaging in non-Islamic festivals > click here

The advice is pretty simple.

• WE ARE MUSLIMS NOT CHRISTIANS
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by celebrating it
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by sending Christmas cards
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by buying Christmas presents
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by wishing others Merry Christmas
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by going to and holding Christmas parties
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by singing Christmas songs
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by telling your kids about a fictional figure like Santa Claus
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by doing secret Santa
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by going to your company Christmas party
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas, we should educate people on Islam instead
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by having one foot in Islam and one foot in Christianity
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas, you are after all celebrating SHIRK
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by buying your kids advent calendars
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by putting up a Christmas tree
• It’s haraam to support the idea of Christmas by having your kids take part in Christmas nativity plays
• Christmas is for Christians, Eid is for Muslims.
• Christmas is a made-up, pagan festival 4 the Christians/non-Muslims. Eid is a Gift from Allah for the Muslims

You may think, this is extreme. Actually, it isn’t. Christmas is a pagan festival which has been connected with the Christian concept of Prophet Isa (as). In Christianity, Jesus is God and this is just plain shirk. So being associated with Christmas is haraam on many levels, as described above. Read on for more explanation from authentic hadith.

Many Muslims around the world will be actually taking part in these festivities. They will do this without really questioning what they are doing, without even asking themselves if, as Muslims, they should be partaking in this. Basically, what springs to mind for those Muslims who aren’t learned in deen, “what’s the big deal?”. It IS a big deal.

The fact is that Muslims should not be taking part in Christmas or other festivals that are not based in Islam, that do not uphold the principles that we have been taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). But many Muslims do. A sad fact and one that undermines the establishing of Islam and a united Ummah.

Why does it undermine things?

Firstly, we are Muslims and we distinguish ourselves as being Muslims and following Islam. There is no need to follow the tradition of another religion, especially if we have been Commanded by Allah and His Messenger (peace be upon him) not to. Allah Has Prescribed for us the festivities we should follow and there is no need to add to this by following something else. If celebrating Christmas was allowed, it would have been stated in hadith or the Qur’an. If doing this was ok, then would there be a need for Islam? Isn’t Islam enough for the Muslims?

“Whoever seeks a religion other than Islaam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers.” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:85]

Secondly, Christmas is a pagan festival – it has NOTHING to do with Christianity. It isn’t the birthday of Isa/Jesus (as) and many Christians know this. Christmas is depicted as being lots of snow, Christmas trees, Santa Claus, Reindeers, magical things – nothing to do with Christianity. It doesn’t snow in the Middle East, there’s no Christmas trees there, no such thing as Santa Claus, no such things as flying reindeers – absolutely nothing to do with Isa/Jesus (as). So what we are actually engaging in has no basis in any religion and as Muslims are supposed to be religious, then this is a bit hypocritical. Christmas has nothing to do with Allah or the Prophets, so as Muslims, it has nothing to do with us.

Even if Christmas WAS the birthday of Isa/Jesus (as), this is not something to be celebrated as, in Islam, Muslims are not supposed to celebrate birthdays. We do not celebrate the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) birthday and this was not done by the Sahabas (Companions) either. Those Muslims who do celebrate birthdays need to check their beliefs and look into why Islam does not allow this.

Another point is that Christmas is a commercial affair these days. It’s all about selling presents, making money out of Christmas and this in itself is wrong. Many families are put under stress and the financial burden of trying to keep up with Christmas. People in the UK even start buying for Christmas months in advance to help with the finances. And if you cannot give presents, then how does this make you look? Any festivity that puts this kind of pressure and adversity on people is wrong. Even Eid is starting to go this way and Muslims need to wake up to this and not let festivities get out of hand.

Muslims are not Christians, pagans, jews, buddhists, hindus, sikhs, atheists or belonging to any other religion or way of life. Muslims are Muslims and follow Islam. By celebrating Christmas you are actually following something else. And this undermines the strength of the Ummah. This is one of the reasons why the Ummah is weak – we do not adhere to Islam and only Islam. There is nothing wrong with saying that you are a Muslim and so do not celebrate Christmas. Non-Muslims respect this but it seems that Muslims do not want to feel like they are upsetting others.

The following hadiths are examples of how Muslims should not imitate the actions of non-Muslims.

On the authority of Abdullah ibn Amr ibn Aas who said: “The Messenger of Allah saw me wearing two saffron garments and he said: ‘Indeed these are from the dress of the Kuffaar so do not wear them.’ [Collected by Muslim (1/144), An-Nisaaee (2/298), Al-Haakim (4/190), and Ahmad in his Musnad (2/172, 164, 193, 207, and 211)]

At-Tirmidhi narrated that Ibn Abbas رضي الله عنه reported that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم said: “He is not one of us who imitates other than us. Do not imitate the Jews or the Christians.”

At-Tabarani and Abu Dawud narrated that Ibn Umar and Hudhayfah رضي الله عنه reported that the Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم said: “Whoever imitates a people, he is one of them.”

Al-Bayhaqi reported in his Sunan that Anas Bin Maalik رضي الله عنه said: “When the Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم came to Medina, the people had two holidays from the days of Jahiliyyah.”

He صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم said: “When I came to you, you had two days which you used to celebrate in Jahiliyyah. Allah سبحانه وتعالى has replaced them for you with better days, the days of slaughter (Adhaa) and the day of fitr.”

What does Christmas mean to most people? Well most people are not devout Christians and do not even believe Christmas to be connected to Isa/Jesus (as). For these people, Christmas is just a time to feel good, have parties, have a good time. And that’s about it. This is not what Muslims are about or should be about.

Muslims need to start standing up for Islam and stop acting like non-Muslims. We are not Christians and do not hold to those beliefs, unless they coincide with what is from Qur’an and Sunnah. We are not pagans, taking part in rituals that have no significance with Allah.

This is not about Muslims being segregated from society but more the opposite. This is about Muslims standing up and being identified as Muslims – not as though they have some confused fusion of identities. Islam is clear and Muslims need to be also. By being identified as Muslims, what Muslims stand for, what Islam stands for, you will gain respect from other Muslims, gain understanding and respect from non-Muslims and start to create societies where Muslims can be seen to have their place. This is about societies welcoming Muslims and Islam – it isn’t about eating into Islamic identity, which is what those Muslims are doing who are taking part in Christmas, Easter, Diwali, Hannukah and other non-Islamic festivals.

What should Muslims do?

Muslims need to stop engaging in Christmas festivities, parties, the giving of presents, sending cards, giving Christmas greetings. This is not Islamic so don’t have one foot in Islam and one foot in something else – that is a hypocritical stance to have. Instead, celebrate Islam – you have two Eids and can make the most of this. Be devout and upstanding Muslims that non-Muslims can respect for their Islamic values and morals and beliefs. If you don’t then what do you stand for?

Muslims need to come to terms with an Islamic identity and the fact that we are ordered by Allah not to imitate the kufaar – the non-Muslims. If anything, the non-Muslims have much to gain by imitating Muslims and learning from Muslims. We should be the role models, not the other way round. How will non-Muslims learn the errors of their ways, if we imitate them? Also, if we imitate the non-Muslims in the things they do, then where do you draw the line? Would you take part in Diwali which celebrates the many gods of the hindus? This would be committing shirk – the worst sin in Islam. The fairest and most just way is to not engage in festivities that are not Islamic.

Muslim parents need to explain to the schools that their children attend about Islamic values and why their children shouldnt take part in Christmas plays. This increases their understanding about Islam and helps future Muslims. Whenever I have explained things to non-Muslims, they have never looked at me in a bad way but respected me for my beliefs.

Explain to non-Muslims about Islamic values and how we celebrate on Eid. They are not aliens and will understand.

Muslims… you need to act like Muslims and BE Muslims, following Islam and showing everyone the beauty of Islam.

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Brutal attack on Palestinian family by Israeli police

This was posted on YouTube on 6th October 2011. It’s very brutal and wiped away any smiles on my face, any feelings of happiness or feeling comfortable on my sofa.

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Sialkot Lynching: Incomplete Justice = no justice at all!

Over a year since the brutal lynching of two innocent brothers, Muneeb Butt and Mughees Butt, the courts have ruled.

• Seven people, villagers, have been given the death penalty, on four counts.
• Another six villagers were given life imprisonment.
• Ten policemen were also convicted but only received 3 years each, for standing by and doing nothing.
• Over 100 people who watched and did nothing – no mention and no prosecution. Nothing.

Those awarded the death sentence include Jameel alias Jeela, Rashed Iqbal, Sarfraz, Yasir, Ali Raza alias Police and Shafiq alias Fauji. Those imprisoned for life include Qaiser, Mohsin Raza, Jamshed alias Shairu, Asghar Ali, Ateeq and Asghar. The policemen convicted and sentenced to three years imprisonment include then DPO Waqar Chohan, Inspector Rana Ilyas, ASI Waris, constables Nazir Hussain, Bashir Ahmed, Tariq Mahmood, Akram, Mubarak Ali, Nasir Ahmed and Yasir. Constable Nazir Hussain had, however, already died of heart failure some days before the verdict.

JUSTICE HAS NOT BEEN FULLY DONE

Whilst I am pleased that the criminals who committed this have been given the death penalty, I’m disgusted that the police officers have been given light sentences. They are responsible to stop such atrocities. This is their job, this is what they are paid to do. The consequences of not doing this is devastating – it is not a light matter at all. So the sentences should be heavier! They had the power and authority to stop this, so why such a light sentence?

The other fact that I am appalled about is that there were many onlookers, who also could have done something to stop this from happening. They haven’t been prosecuted at all – not even a slap on the wrist! They are just as responsible. It is incumbent on those who are able to stop a zulm (a wrongdoing) from happening. How will they explain this to Allah? How will they explain this to Muneeb and Mughees Butt on Judgement Day.

Because justice has not been done on all counts, then this cannot be described as justice at all. The Pakistan courts should be ashamed for not taking this all the way. You have been entrusted with carrying out justice and will answer to Allah if you did not and have not a good answer for this.

I once again post the video of the violent attack by animals that dare to call themselves human beings. Watch this and tell me if I am wrong! And remember that this happened during Ramadan.

WARNING: the video below is disturbing to say the least and contains some graphic footage of violence and inhuman behaviour.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Flh_-D4SX9w

English report: http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2010/08/2010823112833264228.html

Those who watched and did nothing but could have done something – GUILTY!

There were over 100 witnesses – over ONE HUNDRED!! They just stood there and watched. None came to Muneeb’s or Mughees’ aid. Not a one! What is the matter with you! Have you no shame? Have you no decency? Have you no Fear of Allah? Even if you were standing there, thinking to yourself “what crime has been committed?”, you will have known that this lynching was wrong!

There is only one word that comes to mind that sums up the actions of those who stood by and did nothing – EVIL!

“Believing men and believing women are protecting friends of one another; they enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong…” [Surah Taubah, v71]

We have been Commanded by Allah to enjoin the right and forbid the wrong. In this, we have been commanded by Allah to do three things, when we see something wrong being committed:

Abu Sa”id al-Khudri, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Messenger of Allah (SAW) had said: “Whoever amongst you sees anything objectionable, let him CHANGE IT WITH HIS HAND, if he is not able, then WITH HIS TONGUE, and if he is not even able to do so, then WITH HIS HEART, and the latter is the weakest form of faith.” [Sahih Muslim]

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Stories of the Prophets – Hud (as)

The Story of Prophet Hud (as) is a major lesson for all of us. It is a prime example of how civilisations grow arrogant, haughty and proud and then are brought down with the severest of punishments. The people of ‘Ad were well built and known for their craftmanship and building of lofty towers; they also had unjust rulers – remind you of any civilisation you know?

Prophet Hud (as), a descendant of Prophet Nuh (as) was sent to the people of ‘Ad to warn them of their disbelief and guide them to the straight path. They did not heed the warnings and were punished with hurricanes so fierce that nothing could withstand it.

We are witness to the havoc and destruction that is caused by hurricanes today. These hurricanes move across land and in the few moments that they pass an area, they have reduced it to rubble. Imagine then, the destruction of the people of ‘Ad, who were punished with the severest of hurricanes, which was unrelenting and smashing their cities for 8 days and 7 nights, continuously! Can you picture the destruction and the bodies being thrown all over the place, being bashed and battered? May Allah Protect us from the arrogance that led to this punishment.

Stories Of The Prophets By Ibn Kathir

The following are some snippets of the Stories of the Prophets as written by the renowned scholar (masha’Allah), Ibn Kathir and translated by Sheikh Muhammad Mustafa Geme’ah (Office of the Grand Imam, Sheikh Al-Azhar). I hope you will find them beneficial, insha’Allah.

THE DISBELIEVERS QUESTION HUD
The chiefs of Hud’s people asked: “Is it not strange that Allah’s chooses one of us to reveal His message to?” Hud replied: “What is strange in that? Allah wants to guide you to the right way of life, so HE sent me to warn you. Noah’s flood and his story are not far away from you, so do not forget what happened. All the disbeliveers were destroyed, no matter how strong they were.”

“Who is going to destroy us Hud?” the chiefs asked.

“Allah.” replied Hud.

The disbeliveers among his people answered: “We will be saved by our gods.”

Hud’s people started to flee. They ran to their tents to hide but the gale became stronger, ripping their tents from their stakes. They hid under cloth covers but the gale became stronger and still
and tore away the covers. It slashed clothing and skin. It penetrated the apertures of the body and destroyed it. It hardly touched anything before it was destroyed or killed, its core sucked out to
decompose and rot. The storm raged for 8 days and 7 nights.

Almighty Allah recounts:
“Then when they saw it as a dense cloud coming towards their valleys, they said: “This is a cloud bringing us rain!” Nay but it is that torment which you were asking to be hastened! a wind wherein is a painful torment! Destroying everything by the command of its Lord! (Ch 46:24-25 Quran)

Allah the Exalted described it thus:
“And as for Ad, they were destroyed for a firious violent wind which Allah imposed on them for seven nights and eight days in succession, so that you could see men lying overthrown (destroyed) as if they were hollow trunks of palm trees! (Ch 69:6-7 Quran)

Download the book and read more about the Story of Nuh (as) and other Prophets in the Stories Of The Prophets By Ibn Kathir

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Stories of the Prophets – Nuh (as)

The Story of Prophet Nuh (as) is probably one of the most famous stories in the world. Children are taught it in schools, studies are done by archaeologists to determine what happened. Jews, Christians and Muslims all know about it. But only Muslims have the remaining truth of the story of Nuh (as).

Prophet Nuh (as) was sent to bring his people back to the Truth and Straight Path of Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) and his people were those who had first adopted idol worship. Prophet Nuh (as) is classed as one of the great Prophets from Allah and he preached to his people for 950 years! This is a great lesson for those of us who are impatient when trying to spread the message of Islam to others. Only after Nuh (as) had exhausted all manner of spreading the message to his people, did the Punishment of Allah come down on them – the great flood!

Stories Of The Prophets By Ibn Kathir

The following are some snippets of the Stories of the Prophets as written by the renowned scholar (masha’Allah), Ibn Kathir and translated by Sheikh Muhammad Mustafa Geme’ah (Office of the Grand Imam, Sheikh Al-Azhar). I hope you will find them beneficial, insha’Allah.

NOAH’S PEOPLE – IDOLATERS
For many generations Noah’s people had been worshipping statues that they called gods. They believed that these gods would bring them good, protect them from evil and provide all their needs. They gave their idols names such as Waddan, Suwa’an, Yaghutha, Ya’auga, and Nasran (These idols represented, respectively, manly power; mutability, beauty; brute strength, swiftness, sharp sight, insight) according to the power they thought these gods possessed.

Allah the Almighty revealed: “They (idolaters) have said: “You shall not leave your gods nor shall you leave Wadd, nor Suwa, nor Yaghuth, nor Ya uq nor Nasr (names of the idols).” (Qur’an 71:23)

Originally these were the names of good people who had lived among them. After their deaths, statues of them were erected to keep their memories alive. After sometime, however, people began to worship these statues. Later generations did not even know why they had been erected; they only knew their parents had prayed to them. That is how idol worshipping developed. Since they had no understanding of Allah the Almighty Who would punish them for their evil deeds, they became cruel and immoral…

NOAH’S REASONING WITH HIS PEOPLE
Allah in His Mercy sent His messenger Noah to guide his people. Noah was an excellent speaker and a very patient man. He pointed out to his people the mysteries of life and the wonders of the universe. He pointed out how the night is regularly followed by the day and that the balance between these opposites were designed by Allah the Almighty for our good. The night gives coolness and rest while the day gives warmth and awakens activity. The sun encourages growth, keeping all plants and animals alive, while the moon and stars assist in the reckoning of time,
direction and seasons.

He pointed out that the ownership of the heavens and the earth belongs only to the Divine Creator. Therefore, he explained to this people, there cannot have been more than one deity. He clarified to them how the devil had deceived them for so long and that the time had come for this deceit to stop. Noah spoke to them of Allah’s glorification of man, how HE had created him and provided him with sustenance and the blessings of a mind.

He told them that idol worshipping was a suffocating injustice to the mind. He warned them not to worship anyone but Allah and described the terrible punishment Allah would mete out if they continued in their evil ways.

DIVISION AMONG NOAH’S PEOPLE
The people listened to him in silence. His words were a shock to their stagnating minds as it is a shock to a person who is asleep under a wall which is about to fall and who is vigorously awakened. This person may be alarmed and may even become angry although the aim was to save him.

Noah’s people were divided into two groups after his warning. His words touched the hearts of the weak, the poor, and the miserable and soothed their wounds with its mercy. As for the rich, the strong, the mighty and the rulers they looked upon the warning with cold distrust. They believed they would be better off if things stayed as they were. Therefore they started their war of words against Noah.

THE DISBELIEVER’S ARGUMENTS
First they accused Noah of being only human like themselves.

“The chiefs of the disbelievers among his people said: “We see you but a man like ourselves.”‘ (Ch 11:27 Quran)

He, however, had never said anything other than that. He asserted that, indeed, he was only a human being; Allah had sent a human messenger because the earth was inhabited by humans. If it had been inhabited by angels Allah would have sent an angelic messenger. The contest between the polytheists and Noah continued. the rulers had thought at first that Noah’s call would soon fade on its own. When they found that his call attracted the poor, the helpless and common laborers, they started to verbally attack and taunt him: ‘You are only followed by the poor, the meek and the worthless.’

Allah the Almighty told us:

“Indeed We sent Noah to his people (he said): “I have come to you as a plain Warner that you worship none but Allah, surely, I fear for you the torment of a painful Day.” the chiefs of the disbelievers among his people said: “We see you but a man like ourselves, nor do we see any follow you but the meanest among us and they too followed you without thinking. And we do not see in you any merit above us in fact we think you are liars.” (CH 11:25-27).

Download the book and read more about the Story of Nuh (as) and other Prophets in the Stories Of The Prophets By Ibn Kathir

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Al-Mawlid: Celebrating the Prophet’s birthday (pbuh) – Why is it a big NO?

What is Al-Mawlid? It’s the celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) birthday.

Al-Mawlid is celebrated by many Muslims throughout the world. They will celebrate in many numbers of ways. Some will hold processions in the streets, marching through towns and cities, in much the same way that the Sikhs do on their holy days/festivals. Some will hold lectures and serve food in the masjids. Some will read the Qur’an and make collective dua after reading. Some will hold parties and gatherings in their homes.

It all sounds very good, doesn’t it. Except for one, very important fact – this is not an Islamic festival. And so it is not part of Islam. And those who make it part of Islam are in fact introducing an innovation. And what’s the position of innovations in Islam?

“Whoever innovates something in this matter of ours (Islam) that is not part of it, will have it rejected.” (Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim)

“…The most truthful speech is the Book of Allah. The best way is the way of Muhammad. The worst of affairs are the novelties and every novelty is an innovation and every innovation is misguidance and every misguidance is in the Fire.” Reported by an-Nasaa’ee

Celebrating the birthday of the Prophet (peace be upon him) is not something we have been Ordered to do by Allah, nor the Messenger of Allah (pbuh). There is no verse nor saheeh hadith (strong hadith) that instructs us to do this. So this is an innovation and not part of Islam. Further evidences from shari’ah can be found at the bottom of this post.

Al-Mawlid An-Nabi (ie. the birthday of the Prophet (pbuh)) is not an Islamic festival and you will find that those who call upon Muslims to practise this, (the ‘pirs’ and ‘saints’ and ‘religious leaders’) are also engaged in other innovations as well. Now there’s an interesting coincidence!

HISTORY OF AL-MAWLID

Public celebrations of the Prophet’s birth first occurred 400 years after his death. Milad un-Nabi started as a festival for the Shia ruling class, without the involvement of ordinary people, near the end of the 11th century in Egypt. The celebrations emphasised the Ahl al-Bayt, the family of the Prophet Muhammad, with sermons and recitation of the Qu’ran. The first Sunni celebration took place in the 12th Century in Syria, when Nur ad-Din was the ruler. The reason why the Sunnis adopted the Shi’ite festival is not clear, but it is possible it was done to counter Christian influence in Spain and Morocco.

SO WHY DO PEOPLE CELEBRATE IT?

I offer one explanation, and that is that they have misinterpreted the following hadiths:

Muslim (1162) narrated from Abu Qataadah al-Ansaari (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) was asked about fasting on Mondays and he said: “On (that day) I was born and on it Revelation came down to me.”

Al-Tirmidhi (747) narrated, in a hadeeth that he classed as hasan, from Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said: “Deeds are presented (to Allah) on Monday and Thursday and I like my deeds to be presented when I am fasting.”

Many Muslims have mistaken these hadiths to meaning that the day the Prophet (pbuh) was born is a blessed day and that we should celebrate this ‘birthday’. However, the hadith clearly is about MONDAYS – meaning, any Monday and not one specific Monday in the year. Also, the Prophet (pbuh) fasted on Mondays for the reasons outlined above – he (pbuh) didn’t fast on his day of birth only. He also fasted on Thursdays as well, so his actions did not show any more significance for his day of birth than other days. We would realise this, if we thought about it. Also, the Prophet (pbuh) used to FAST on Mondays, as he did on Thursdays – he did not hold a procession, nor a gathering, nor a feast, nor a festival… need I go on?

WHAT’S THE HARM?

Enjoining good and forbidding wrong is one of the key principles of Islam. We don’t just sit back and allow things to happen, in front of our eyes, like mindless couch potatoes sitting in front of the TV.

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

So we have been instructed to be protective about Islam, keep it free of wrongdoings, of keeping made-up practises away from Islam. By doing this, we keep the message clear for people to learn the truth. And we avoid going down roads that lead to bigger sins. Once you start to introduce innovations in Islam, you give room for other innovations to creep in. Over time, the religion will have changed from what it originally was. Remember that Shaytaan is an open enemy to mankind and he will try to mislead us in SMALL things – things that we will think are good but lead to wrongdoing. If these things were obvious, we would reject Shaytaan very easily.

We have been Instructed by Allah not to make distinctions between the Prophets:

Say (O Muhamma, pbuh): We believe in Allah and in what has been sent down to us, and what was sent down to Ibrahim (Abraham), Isma’il (Ishmael), Ishaaq (Isaac), Ya’qub (Jacob) and Al-Asbat (the twelve sons of Ya’qub) and what was given to Musa (Moses), ‘Isa (Jesus) and the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between one another amon them and to Him (Allah) we have submitted (in Islam).” (Qur’an, 3:84)

So if we are not to make distinctions, then if celebrating the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) birthday was halaal, shouldn’t we celebrate ALL the prophets’ birthdays? Yet we all know the harm of celebrating Christmas. So isn’t there a hypocrisy here by those who call on other Muslims to celebrate Al-Mawlid?

Look at what has happened with birthdays generally speaking – they involve making someone feel special for ONE day – if you miss it, they feel bad. You have to spend money, waste money on buying things – there is a culture of trying to better your gifts each time – it becomes a burden. And yet there is nothing, after all this effort, that benefits a person in the HereAfter. Look at what’s happened with Christmas and the distortions and mistruths that are surrounding the Prophet Isa (as).

An extract from the last sermon of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh):

“…Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things…”

Secondly, we do not emulate non-Muslims, nor the Christians, nor the Jews. The Christians exaggerate in their love for Prophet Isa (as) – we should not exaggerate in our love for the Prophet Muhamamd (pbuh) – we must love him but not to the extreme, wherein we will be stepping into sin. By celebrating the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) birthday, we end up following the path of the Christians and Christmas and we open up the door of practising extremes – and MUSLIMS ARE NOT EXTREMISTS.

The Prophet (pbuh) said: “Do not exaggerate about me as the Christians exaggerated about the son of Maryam. I am only a slave, so say, ‘The slave of Allaah and His Messenger.’” (Reported by al-Bukhaari)

So Muslims, love our Prophet (pbuh) but stay within the Islamic bounds. Shaytaan is always trying to push you outside the boundaries of Islam, so that you don’t even realise when you’ve stepped over the edge! Don’t fall into Shaytaan’s trap. Think about what you’re doing and does it make sense? Always ask, did the Prophet (pbuh) do this? And if he (pbuh) didn’t, then don’t you do it either.

We Muslims are meant to contemplate about things – to be Men of Understanding (including women in this as well, of course!). Islam is not hard but we make it hard with our own little ways that we introduce. Do not spoil your good deeds by mixing them with bad deeds.

Stay away from innovations. Stand up 4 Islam!

Further information about the Islamic rulings on celebrating birthdays, whether it is the Prophet’s (pbuh) birthday or anyone else’s birthday, can be found in the following links:

http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/117651/mawlid

http://islamqa.info/en/ref/10070

http://islamqa.info/en/ref/13810

http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/70317/mawlid

http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/128530/mawlid

http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/249/mawlid

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Uprising in Egypt – Don’t forget Allah! Mubarak: Time to go!

The uprising in Egypt has caught world attention. Tens of thousands of Egyptians have been taking to the streets, protesting against the government. It’s been brewing for a while and recent events like the bombing of a church in Alexandria on New Year’s Day have escalated tensions.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12314366

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-12308443

Whilst I applaud the Egyptians for standing up against a corrupt and oppressive regime, a government, run by Hosni Mubarak, that has co-operated with the US government in imprisoning and torturing many sincere and righteous Muslims who are standing up for Islam, I urge caution.

True, Hosni Mubarak is not the leader we need in these times and his actions have infuriated the people of Egypt and it is high time that he was ousted. Insha’Allah may the people of Egypt overthrow this leader who allies himself with those who defy Islam. Friends of the enemies of Allah and Islam are simply enemies to ALL the Muslims! Mubarak has oppressed the people of Egypt, former land of the previous oppressors, the Pharoahs, and prevented the country from truly being a major boost to the ummah. We do not want people like this ruling over Muslim lands.

Mubarak must go!

But, all these protests will amount to nothing if the Egyptians do not remember Allah.

NO SUCCESS EXCEPT ALLAH’S SUCCESS

Only Allah Can Bring prosperity and respect and peace to a country like Egypt. So I urge Egyptians to protest but protest and stand up in the Name of Allah! Do only those things which are allowed and halaal. Without Allah, what will become of your efforts? Do not replace the regime of Mubarak with another weak, power-hungry, corrupt and oppressive regime. Replace him with Islam, with someone who can help bring the Eygptian nation under the banner of Islam, for there is no success except Allah’s Success!

On my visits to Egypt, I have seen that there is so much potential for the people to benefit from practising Islam in ALL their affairs. Cast aside those ways which only benefit in the duniya and do nothing for your akhira. Why do you think Egypt has ended up in this position in the first place?

And what of Obama, urging Mubarak to give Egyptians democratic opportunities? Obama, this is not your country, so keep out and do not interfere. Egypt needs something much much better than democracy, and that is ISLAM! Do you think that Obama would be saying this, if he didn’t have a vested interest in Egypt? Obama is not out to side with the Egyptians, the Muslims – he’s only out for his own selfish gains. Obama, you don’t even know what’s good for yourself, never mind the US, never mind Egypt, never mind the world. So go away, hide in your White House and let the Muslims sort their own affairs.

THE REST OF THE UMMAH NEEDS TO WAKE UP!

Muslims around the world should take heed of what is happening in Egypt. Oppressive governments should be challenged and stood up against. Indeed Prophet Ibrahim (as) stood up against Nimrud, Prophet Musa (as) stood up against Firaun, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) against the rulers of Quraysh. But learn the lessons, all the Prophets who stood up against leaders and oppression and wrongdoing, did so in the Name of Allah. The uprising in Egypt shows that we do not need to act weak, we can stand up against oppressive rulers – they are only people, not some mighty and powerful beings.

The Muslim Ummah is not weak – we only think it is.

Stand up 4 Islam!

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Jack Straw: Attacking Pakistanis and pulling Islamophobia strings again!

Yet again, Jack Straw, former home secretary and MP for Blackburn, is causing a stir and offending Muslims across the UK.

In 2006 Jack Straw, then the Leader of the House of Commons, created uproar by asking Muslim women to take off their niqabs when addressing him. Asked whether he would prefer veils to be abolished completely, Straw said: “Yes. It needs to be made clear I am not talking about being prescriptive but with all the caveats, yes, I would rather.” [Source]. The arrogance of the man! Now, on 8th January 2011, this former government minister and jew, has openly attacked the integrity of Pakistani men.

After two Pakistani men were jailed for raping and abusing girls in Derby, Jack Straw made a sweeping statement, racially stereotyping Pakistani men as preying on white women! The judge in the Derby case said that the races of the victims and their abusers was coincidental – a fact that Jack Straw has blatantly ignored in his insensitive and condemning comments on the Pakistani community.

Jack Straw said: “Pakistanis, let’s be clear, are not the only people who commit sexual offences, and overwhelmingly the sex offenders’ wings of prisons are full of white sex offenders.

“But there is a specific problem which involves Pakistani heritage men… who target vulnerable young white girls.

“We need to get the Pakistani community to think much more clearly about why this is going on and to be more open about the problems that are leading to a number of Pakistani heritage men thinking it is OK to target white girls in this way.” [see BBC website]

It seems that Jack Straw is leading the charge against Muslims and our communities. He has labelled all Pakistani men as being immoral and as sexual predators lusting after white women. He focused heavily on Pakistani men and hardly mentioned other races. This is Britain, where inter-racial relationships are commonplace but for some reason, according to Mr. Straw, it’s a big no no for Pakistani men. Out of the rapes and abuses against white women in the UK, do Pakistanis represent the largest number of offenders? Are Pakistanis the only men who go after white women? The answer is simply NO! And to label an entire race in this way is completely and utterly wrong and unjust.

Jack Straw is a Member of Parliament representing Blackburn, which has a sizeable Pakistani community – how dare he misrepresent his constituents in this manner! And there is a lesson here for those Muslims in Blackburn who voted in Jack Straw! Clearly there should be calls for an apology from Mr. Straw and for him to step down from such a public position. Where are his statements on white men preying on white women, or asian women, or black women? Where are his statements on black men preying on white women? He has made a statement that is completely unfair to Pakistanis and Muslims, demonising and unfair to men and women of all races and cultures.

There is bad and good in all communities and religions, so why single out Pakistanis? This is no different to the way the Black community in the UK was singled out in the 70s and 80s – the racism that is being displayed by this Member of Parliament is disgusting! He may as well join the BNP. Do not men of other colours and faiths not prey on women and girls?

Another point is maybe Mr. Straw should not be talking in such a racist manner when his own brother was convicted for sexual assault on a 16 year old girl. See this article by the Independent newspaper. Obviously Mr. Straw knows how damaging such a conviction is, not only for the accused but for the accused’s family. So does this mean that Jack Straw will openly say that White men are sexual predators, preying on young women from all races?? Such a hypocritical view being displayed here by Mr. Straw, considering his history.

WHAT’S ISLAMOPHOBIA GOT TO DO WITH PAKISTANIS?

So why connect this incident with Islamophobia? Jack Straw is clearly talking about Paksitani men, not Islam, so why am I putting the two together?

The reason I am doing this is because the public will be doing this. A sizeable proportion of the Muslims in this country are Pakistani and the public do not see Pakistanis as being different to Muslims. To them, Pakistanis are Muslims and Muslims are Pakistanis. This is the general public image of Islam in the UK, even though Muslims are from every race and colour and culture. If you asked a member of the public in the UK to describe a typical Muslim man, what would they come up with? A black man? A white man? Not likely. A Pakistani looking man? More likely.

So Jack Straw’s attack on Pakistani men, rightly or wrongly, is an attack also on Muslims. People don’t see the two as being separate and different, so for all intents and purposes, it’s an attack on both. And any attack on Muslims is Islamophobia in action! Anyone with Jack Straw’s political background will be well aware of this.

What’s the real purpose of this outburst by Jack Straw? Is his jewish heritage playing a role here? Don’t forget he was against the niqaab and was one of the first high profile figures in the UK to speak out against the niqaab – and look what happened after that! People felt more brave to speak out against the niqaab and it has become one of the campaign messages for fascist and racist groups like the BNP (British National Party) and EDL (English Defence League). People feel it is OK to attack Muslims and Islam and have no fear in doing so. Not once are they questioning whether their attacks are founded in truth or stereotype, whether their attacks are driven by fear or sound reasoning and understanding of the issues.

Now that Jack Straw, a high profile figure in UK politics, has made such comments, what is to come? More attacks on the Pakistani community? More reasons to make the community feel isolated, picked on and demonised? Is this an underhand campaign to drive out Muslims from the UK?

Stand up against this man and his comments! Don’t let him influence the rest of UK politics and the general public with his distorted opinions and views.

Stand Up 4 Islam!

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BBC News – Jack Straw: Some white girls are ‘easy meat’ for abuse
The Independent – Jack Straw’s brother found guilty of indecent assault on girl, 16
Jewish Chronicle – How jewish is Jack Straw?
Guardian newspaper – White girls seen as ‘easy meat’ by Pakistani rapists, says Jack Straw
This is Lancashire – Jack Straw in Wikileaks ‘whispering campaign’ claim
Asian Image (Lancashire) – From terrorists to sexual predators: Who’d be a British Pakistani man right now?
BBC News – Dutch government backs burqa ban
The Economist – Banning the burka: A bad idea…

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Misconceptions about Islam

I have quickly written about some common misconceptions about Islam – if you would like me to expand and explain any one of these statements, please leave a polite comment to let me know and I will do my best to answer.

Islam is NOT… Forced Marriages
… but it is about Arranged Marriages that are agreed upon by the spouses-to-be and it’s not about relationships outside marriage.
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Islam is NOT… praying to the dead and at graves for help
… but it is about praying to Allah for Help at least 5 times a day.
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Islam is NOT… about celebrating birthdays (not even the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, peace be upon him)
… but it is about preparing for the Hereafter, which nears every moment of the day.
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Islam is NOT… about dancing (like the sufi mystics do, or ANY kind of dance)
… but it is about avoiding the temptations and misguidance of Shaytaan.
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Islam is NOT… about music
… but it is about reciting the Qur’an, which is the height of any poetry available in the world and at any time.
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Islam is NOT… oppressive to women
… but some men do abuse their positions (as in ALL societies and religions).
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Islam is NOT… about freedom of speech
…without taking responsibility for your actions and the impact you have on others!
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Islam is NOT… about inequality to women
… but it is about recognising the differences between men and women on a lot of levels – physically, mentally, emotionally, psychologically.
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Islam is NOT… about killing innocent people
… but it is about standing up for the truth and defending those who are being opressed from reaching the truth.
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Islam is NOT… a backward and out-of-date religion
… but it is about tackling the weaknesses of mankind, which haven’t changed from day one!
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Islam is NOT… about worshipping any of the creation; not man, not beasts, not the sun, not animals, not any form of creation
… but it is about worshipping the Creator of all things, My Lord and Your Lord (even if you reject belief in Him); it is about worshipping Allah!
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Islam is NOT… about having no fun and living a miserable life in servitude
… but it is about knowing your place in life, which in itself is liberating to no end, and the start of enjoying life in this world and the Hereafter.
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Islam is NOT… about a lack of love and kindness
… but it is about being the best that human character can offer, including love, kindness, charity, help and assistance, caring and other such qualities.
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Islam is NOT… about integrating with other religions at the expense of our deen and responsibility to Allah
… but it is about engaging with people from other religions so that they know about Islam and the truth. It is about having an understanding about other religions so we can educate them about Islam. But we do not suport the things that other religions do wrongly against Allah. (By integrating I mean that we compromise our deen and hide things away to please the disbelievers rather than talking the truth about Islam).
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Islam is NOT… about men using women for their own desires
… but it is about men being responsible, providing for them and protecting them and guiding them and being partners for them.
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Islam is NOT… the terrorism that is reported so unfairly in the media and spread across the world
… but it is about enlightening everyone in the world with the TRUTH of things, with clear evidences and proofs.
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Islam is NOT… about following man-made rules and laws
… but it is about following and accepting divine guidance, which can clearly be distinguished from man-made rules and laws.
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Islam is NOT… about celebrating Christmas, nor Easter, nor Diwali, nor any other celebration from another religion
… but it is about showing a better way to celebrate what has been Blessed to us by Allah.
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Islam is NOT… about degrading women
… but it is about liberating women, giving them their high status and freeing them from their depiction of being sexual objects, as apparent in advertising, movies and general culture in places like US, UK, Europe and many other places around the world.
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Please learn about TRUE Islam and not what you hear in the media.

Stand Up 4 Islam!

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