The most beautiful things in the world don't come inpackages

Is his hair nicely styled? Is he the perfect height? Are his dimples
so cute when he smiles?
Is her makeup just right? Does her body have the perfect curves? Do
her feet arch perfectly in those killer high heels?
This is packaging, it's irrelevant.
American, Pakistani, Arab, African, black, white, this is a veneer.
These qualities are insignificant by any true, spiritual standard.
When you're feeling ill and are curled up in bed, it's not an Arab or
American who holds your hand and tells you that it will be okay, who
takes your temperature and cools your forehead with a towel, who makes
you chicken soup with lemon… it's a human being, a husband or wife who
lovesyou.
We must get beyond superficial and meaninglessclassifications like
race and nationality. In one of the most powerful condemnations of
tribalismthat I have ever read, the Prophet Muhammad (sws) said, in a
hadith narrated by At-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud,
"There are people who boast of their dead ancestors; but they are more
contemptible in thesight of Allah than the black beetle that rolls
dung with its nose. Behold, Allah has removed from you the arrogance
of the time of Jahiliyyah (Ignorance) with its boasting of ancestral
glories. Man is but a God-fearing believer or a miserable sinner. All
people are the children of Adam, and Adam was made from dust."
And about the impulse to nationalism and racism in general, he said,
"Leave it, it is rotten." (Agreed upon).
Alright, how about this: That guy wanting to court you, is his Armani
suit cut just right? Are his shoes sleek and stylish?
That woman who caught your eye, does her dress drape elegantly on her figure?
You know what? That Armani suit can't stand on its own. It needs a
hangar to stay upright. That elegant dress can't raise your children
right.
We must learn to look beyond appearances. I'm not saying that
appearanceis irrelevant, but how muchof our attraction is based on
true human beauty, andhow much is based on distorted standards and
poisonous imagery pumped into our brains by TV, movies, and
advertising? In other words, to what degree have we been brainwashed?
The world of advertising teaches us to focus on the wrong things.
Consultants are paid millions to design the perfect package for a box
of cereal or an energy drink, just the right shape and bright color to
catch your eye and entice you to open your wallet. Meanwhile, the
product – likely as not – is actually bad for you, consisting of
sugar, salt, chemicals and dyes. These advertisers are teaching us to
make choices based on packaging and image.
What they are teaching us is entirely ruinous and wrong.
Human beings are not consumer products. We're not disposable. When you
marry someone you're in itfor the long haul. You're with them when
they wake up in the morning with crust in their eyes andhair pressed
to one side of the their head; when they get laid off from work
because the company is "downsizing", and you don't know how the bills
will get paid next month; when they're depressed, tired, sick; when
they makemistakes, when they say and do the wrong things, when they
lose their temper, when they're afraid or insecure…
This is as serious as it gets. This is life, and a shiny but empty
package won't get you through it, won't help on you the path, won't
hold you up when you're weak, or make you laugh when you're down. The
package can't do that. Remember that when you buy something, the
package ends up in the trash. If you choose someone for the package
only, you may be bitterly disappointed when the storm comes and no one
is there to shelter you, or to hold.
These are lessons learned through heartache and disappointment.
Look deeper. Find a gentle and honest heart, a strong backbone, a
striving spirit. Look to what the person does, how they live, how they
treat people, how they relate to the Almighty.Look to that shimmering
soul inside, and discern whether it's a selfish and bitter soul, or
loving and true. Look beyond the packaging to the core, and trust your
God-given instincts, and you'll find yourself a rare happiness,
aprecious partnership, or a true friend.
The most beautiful, powerful things in the world don't come in
disposable packages. Mountains, trees, ocean, sky, stars… their true
attributes are bared to the world. They don't need packages because
they are stunning and profound in their essence.
As someone said, beautiful things are not always good, but good things
are always beautiful.
By basing your life choices on matters of substance, you'll avoid
social and financial traps that ruin so many.

HADEES - ~

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu ánhu) reported: The Messenger of Allah
(sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said•►"The Mufarridun have gone
ahead.'' He was asked,"Who are the Mufarridun?'' He (sallallaahu
'alayhi wa sallam) replied:
•►"Those men and women who frequently do Dhikr & Tasbeeh (celebrate
the praise & remembrance of Allah).''
[Recorded in Muslim]

Do You See it In Yourself?

One of Allah's names is Al-Wadood, The Most Loving, and this is
appropriate because a Creator must have love in order to create works
of beauty and power. Allah created you out of love. He created you
with intent. Hecreated you to succeed, notto fail, and He gave you all
the tools that you need to thrive. Open your eyes and see what a
miracle you are,what a thing of beauty, what a gift to the world. I
see that in every person I know. If I met you, I'm sureI would see the
miracle and beauty in you too. Do you see it in yourself?

The Good New Days

People often wish for a return to the good old days. First of all,
when we look at them objectively, they weren't really so good. Sure, I
have funny and pleasant memories from my youth, but I also remember
the confusion and loneliness.
I personally would not trade my life at this moment for my life at any
time in the past. Among other things, I now have a beautiful daughter
who I love more than life itself; my writing, which has evolved to
allow me to express my deepest convictions; and many small blessings
that add upto a pot of gold.
Secondly, the old days are called "old" for a reason. That's the past.
We can't goback.
What we can do is focus onthe journey forward.
"Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord,and for a Garden
whose width is that (of the whole)of the heavens and of the earth,
prepared for the righteous; – Those who spend (freely), whether in
prosperity, or in adversity; who restrain anger, and pardon people;-
for Allah loves those who do good; – And those who, having done
something to be ashamed of, or wronged their own souls, earnestly
bring Allah to mind, and ask for forgiveness for theirsins,- and who
can forgive sins except Allah…." – Quran, Surat Aal Imran, 3:133-135
This is how we make a better future for ourselves and our families,
Insha'Allah. Letting go of anger, forgiving, asking forgiveness,
giving to the poor and needy, and racingto Allah. The Almighty has
given us the formula. This is how, instead of yearning for the good
old days, we create good new days! Our future can be as good as the
past ever was; it can bebetter, brighter and happier.
Let's build the good new days.

Fasting is a Key

Why should there be a gateway to Jannah only forthose who fast? What
is so special about fasting for only month every year, as opposed to
praying every day, or making the great effort of Hajj, or giving one's
hard-earned money in charity, or any other important Islamic deed?
Actually we know from various saheeh hadeeth (authentic narrations of
theProphet) that there are many gates to Jannah. Some will reward
people who perform specific actions, and according to the Prophet
(sws), certain individuals willed be called to all the gates, and may
enter from whichever they choose. SubhanAllah. This isa fascinating
subject in its own right. However, Bab Ar-Rayyaan has been mentioned
quite prominently in the narrations. It is clearly an important and
privileged gate.
Why is that?
Fasting is designed to put us into a state of hyper-awareness of
Allah. Hasan al-Basri said,
"By Allah, in the last twenty years, I have not said a word or taken
something with my hand or refrained to take something with my hand or
stepped forth or steppedback, except that I have thought before I have
doneany action, 'Does Allah love this action? Is Allah pleasedwith
this action?'"
This is how we should be when fasting. The fast is a highly personal
act of worship between the servant and the Creator. It'san invisible
act. When you pray or perform tawaaf, you can be seen by others, so
there is always the risk of one's intention being tainted by the
desire to be seen or admired. However, when we are fasting, no one can
look at us and know that we are fasting. Even in Ramadan, a person
could eat or drink secretly. It is an honor system. That is why Allah
said in a hadith qudsi, "Fasting is for Me and I reward it."
(al-Bukhari)
Another truth is that fasting is difficult. It is more arduous than
salat, or giving sadaqah. When done properly, fasting can be very
hard, especially in summer or in hot climates. For me personally,
fasting at the height of summer is the most punishing physical
experience I go through, particularly on thedays when I have martial
arts classes scheduled.
The greatest mistake would be to think that fasting is only about
hunger, thirst and abstinence. It seems to me that fasting is a
physical experience that opens the doorway to a spiritual state of
being. The hardship of fasting is a key that unlocks a tremendous
reservoir of strength, and that plunges one into a state of humility,
and an extreme awareness of one's actions before Allah.
That's ultimately what fasting is about. It is about being conscious
of Allah, sacrificing for Him, being humbled before Him, growing
closer to Him, and pleasing Him.
Fasting is a key that opens a door. And the door is called Ar-Rayyaan.
May Allah make us among those who enter through Ar-Rayyaan.

Ramadan Poem – In Allah’s Loving Hands

May Allah swt be with you every step that you take,
May HE guide you with each decision you make,
May HE help you when life gets rough,
May HE lift you when you've had enough,
May HE protect you when you fall,
May HE hear you when youcall,
May all your duas be accepted,
May you always be in Allah swt's loving hands. Ramadan Mubarak

Bridging knowledge gap through online learning

Among all the technological marvels and their roles in our lives, the
most revolutionary contribution of technology has to be the
democratisation of knowledge all around the world.
Online courses on a wide range of topics are provided openly and for
free by premier institutionsof the world. As these courses reach
larger audiences, they will mitigate the huge gap in knowledge created
due to lack of fundamental resources and varying methods of teaching.
Thesecourses would not only benefit students but will also prove to be
touchstone for teachers.
Among the open educationcourses available on the Web, the most popular
oneis OpenCourseWare (OCW) run by Massachusetts Institute of
Technology (MIT), which provides all itseducation materials from
undergraduate level to graduate level for free. As of now, more than
2,080 courses are available online. Many of them include lecture
notes, interactive Web demonstrations, textbooks written by MIT
professors and streaming video lectures. Details of the available
lectures can be found at http://ocw.mit.edu . Along with MIT's own
site, video lectures are also available on YouTube and iTunes and can
be streamed online or can also be downloaded for viewing offline.
MITx, a recent online learning initiative by MIT, offers a portfolio
of its courses through online interactive learning platform. It has
been designed keeping in mind all aspects of difficulties that might
be faced by students on the online platform. It would not onlyoffer
online laboratories, student-to-student communication, but wouldalso
provide a chance to earn certification of completion award by
MITx,based on the mastery of the subject.
Other options
Among the courses offered by other universities, videocourses of
Harvard, Yale University, University of California – Berkeley, and
Stanford University are worth checking out, but unlike MIT OCW, these
are restricted in number.
In 1999, the idea of havingan enhanced learning programme involving
the Indian Institutes of Technology and Indian Institutes of
Management was conceived by IIT Madras, which was subsequently funded
by the Ministry of Human Resource Development. Today, it is known as
the National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NPTEL).
As of now, 260 courses are available online, but this number is set to
reach 1,000 in the next phase of the programme. With more than 4,900
hours of classroom course, illustration of concepts via animations,
links for reference books, discussionforums and case studies, it has
enough potential to disseminate quality education among Indian
students. In the era of ubiquitous mobile phones, 3GP format of video
courses are especially made for mobile phone users.
Virtual Labs is a new initiative to provide remote access to labs in
various disciplines of science and engineering ( www.vlab.co.in )
taken up by the Ministry of Human Resource Development. At a time when
a majority of institutions are facing a crunch in testing equipment
and resources, this would provide a platform where resources can be
shared.
The integration of NPTEL with Virtual Labs will provide a complete
package for education by bridging the gap between theory and practice.
The hurdle
A major hindrance in taking the online education programme to the
remotest of places is lack of infrastructure. Two things that are
prerequisitefor the programme's success are affordable computer
devices and availability of adequate Internet speed.
The low-cost Aakash tablets seem to be a strongstep towards online
education revolution. However, its availability and reliability are
the issues the government must sort out as soon as possible. Making
courses available on DVDs and harddisks for affordable prices can
mitigate the problem of online streaming of videos on low-speed
Internet.

Tourist Place - Marina Beach - madras, INDIA

Marina Beach is among the longest beaches in the world and it
comprises of sun, sand and surf. Countedamong one of the longest
beaches in Asia, it is stretched across a 12-km long area. This beach
was given a makeover by Governor Mountstuart Elphinstone Grant Duff in
the early 1880's, and is Chennai's major tourist attraction today.
Adjacent to the Bay of Bengal, Chennai has one of the loveliest
beaches in India. A walk along the Marina, whether in the morning or
evening, re-energizes one. The old buildings dotting the otherside of
Kamarajar Salai, a main road along the Marina, bring back memories of
good old British Raj. The Senate House of the University of Madras and
the old buildings now housing government offices, such as Ezhilagam
and the Director General of Police office. They wear a mysterious look
in the morning when the Sun rises.
Walk along the beach bordered with a green lawn will entice you to go
on a leisurely stroll. At the intersections of this promenade stand
beautifulstatues of Tamil scholars, patriots, and noted personalities.
The Statue ofLabour is a beautiful sculpture depicting the efforts of
a team of laborers who are at strenuous, manual work.
¤ Activities At Marina Beach
Located on the eastern sideof Chennai, adjoining the Bay of Bengal is
the mesmerizing Marina beach.Watching the sun set and rise from the
beach is a fascinating experience.
Bathing and swimming canbe dangerous here, as the undercurrent is very
strong. But still people come for swimming here. The beach also offers
a lot of water sports opportunities, like, para-sailing, gliding,
windsurfing, cruising, etc.
In the evenings, the beach turns into a fair ground with various kinds
of entertainment and food stalls lining the beach. One can even shop
around the beach, buying shell and glass baubles to kites and fruit
juices. The Marina, is also the venue for important state functions,
accommodate a good number of visitors. There are also facilities of
pony rides at the beach site, which attract the children'sinterest the
most.
¤ Aquarium
Aquarium is located close to the Marina beach, which has some of the
most exotic collection of tropical sea fishes and fresh water fishes.
The aquarium offers a chance to have a closer look at the aquatic
life. TheIce House, which was used to store ice brought from Great
Lakes in North America, is south to the Aquarium.
Situated on the beach, good number of visitors everyday.
¤ Attractions Around Marina Beach
Beautiful buildings in Chennai such as the University of Madras,
Senate-House, Chepauk Palace, Presidency College, P.W.D office and Ice
House are located on the beach drive. At the other end of the beach is
the new lighthouse. In between, sentinels on the promenade, are
several statues of Tamil scholars and two splendid bits of sculpture-
the Victory of Labour/

NEWS - ~ Torrential rain hits central, southern Taiwan

China > HK/Taiwan
Torrential rain hits central, southern Taiwan
~
2012-06-12 01:29:33 GMT 2012-06-12 09:29:33(Beijing Time) Xinhua English
~
People on an electric bicycle move on a flooded road in Neipu Town,
Pingtung County, southeast China's Taiwan, June 11, 2012. (Xinhua)
Photo taken on June 11, 2012 shows the site of a landslide caused by
torrential rain in Wutai Town, Pingtung County, southeast China's
Taiwan. (Xinhua)
A villager walks on a flooded road in Wutai Town, Pingtung County,
southeast China's Taiwan, June 11, 2012. (Xinhua)
People go to a temporary shelter to escape the torrential rain in
Wutai Town, Pingtung County, southeast China's Taiwan, June 11, 2012.
(Xinhua)
The central and southern parts of Taiwan were hit by torrential rains
in recent days. In the mountainous areas of Kaohsiung and Pingtung,
over 2,000 villagers have been evacuated.

My Child's Mistakes

In this article, we will complete the guidelines of behavioral change
to be followed so that we can make a real change in the behavior of
our children, andconvince them to help us make that change.
5- Listen to him attentively.
In order for the adolescent to tell you about what is in his/her mind,
you have to listen to him/her well to the end. By so doing, you would
be able to make an accurate assessment ofthe situation, on the basis
of which you would suitably direct him/her to the right course of
action. You should note that Allaah The Almighty has created two ears
and one mouth for you so you can listen twice as much as you talk.
The skill of listening should be learnt, and there are ways to express
to the adolescent that he is being listened to well, including:
1- To look attentively but not staring in the face of the adolescent.
2- To show understanding of what he is saying, by nodding the head and
employing simple facial expressions showing the emotions, positively
or negatively.
3- To reduce any factors that may interrupt the talk, such as to look
at or engage oneself with something else other than the adolescent, or
getting up to do something and then returning to him, or any similar
action.
Here, the correct understanding of the meaning of the words thechild
or adolescent should be accurately verified, by raising the following
questions which imply attention on the one hand, and confirm the
correct understanding on the other hand:
1- Give me an example to illustrate what you want to say.
2- How do you feel about this situation? What would you like to do?
3- What is the significance of this word/movement/behavior?
4- How important is this incident?
5- Do you have anything else to say?
6- Give him freedom of choice
If you want to get a good outcome from the dialogue, let your child
actually share it with you.
Why do you not give him an opportunity to share his opinion even in
the manner in which he will be punished for his mistake and
negligence?
Areas of choice:
A - The way of solving the problem
B - The amount, kind and duration of punishment
C - The amount and kind of reward, and how it is obtained
D - How to implement your command.
Beware of humiliating the adolescent, or dashing his hopesand
ambitions on the rock of reality. Give the adolescent an opportunity
to dream and try to realize his dream. Help him move forward, and do
not frustrate him. Beware of accusing him of stupidity and lack of
understanding.
To the parents who are"specialized" in ruining hopes and ambitions I
say: Lift your hands from your children. If you do not support them in
their hopes, at least, do not help the devil in ruining them and
destroying their ambitions and dreams.
7- Reward for achievement and punishment for negligence
What is intended here is to teach the adolescent that there is no
action without a corresponding reaction: if he does well, he will be
rewarded; and if he does badly, he will be punished.
Rewarding is to give the adolescent what he likes and wishes for in a
way that is equal to the work he has done. Similarly, the forms of
punishment should be determined, such as to forbid him from something
he likes, punish him with a verbal reproach or corporal punishment
within the due limits of the Sharee'ah (Islamic legislation), look at
him (with a disapproving look), deprive him of some rights especially
those promised to be given to him as areward for achievement.
8- The door is open so come to us (at any time you like)
Since the gate of repentance will remain open until the sun rises from
its place of setting, then, why should we close the gate of atonement
in the face ofour children? Why do we reject their repeated attempts
at reform, but instead hasten to have them lose all hope?
9- Supplication
You should keep in mind that your invocation (of evil) upon your child
is responded to by Allaah The Almighty, as stated inthe Prophetic
Hadeeth (narration). What, then, would the case be if it is a
supplication of good for him? Thus, do not let this opportunity escape
you, but stick to it and persevere instead.
You should have a good assumption of your Lord that He will respond to
you (as confirmed by Him in His Saying what means): {And your Lord
Says: "Call upon Me; I will respond to you."} [Quran 40:60]
10- A compassionate paternal touch along with a motivating word
To touch the hair of the head and the face, to kiss, to embracethe
child, and say to him such words as "I want to understand you", "I am
proud of you", "I am here whenever you need me", "Ilove you": and
other such words motivate children to strive their utmost, even though
they cost you nothing.

Syria conflict: Fears of new massacre in Haffa

The US has expressed fears that the Syrian government "may be
organising another massacre" in the town of Haffa in Latakia province,
where UN military observers have been denied access.
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said it was vital that the observers
should be allowed into the town.
He and peace envoy Kofi Annan expressed grave concern about violence there.
A BBC correspondent travelling with UN observers witnessed sustained
and heavy shelling in the old city of Homs.
The UN observers are in Syria to monitor the implementation of a
putative ceasefire, brokered by Mr Annan, which has all but collapsed.
'Civilians trapped'
Annan's six-point plan
1. Syrian-led political process to address the aspirations and
concerns ofthe Syrian people
2. End to violence by all sides; army troops to stop using heavy
weapons and withdraw to barracks
3. Parties to allow humanitarian aid
4. Authorities to free political detainees
5. Authorities to ensure freedom of movement for journalists
6. Authorities to allow peaceful demonstrations
"The UN made a particular appeal to be able to get into Haffa because
it had heard concerning reports about regime plans," US state
department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland told a news briefing in
Washington.
"At the same time, if you follow Syrian media, they were claiming that
the opposition would cause a massacre."
Earlier this month, activists said Syrian government forces killed 108
people in the region of Houla, in Homs province, and 78 people in the
village of Qubair, in Hama province.
But Ms Nuland downplayedthe idea of foreign intervention in Syria,
saying the emphasis wouldremain on using political and economic
measures to pressure the government of President Bashar al-Assad.
The Syrian government blames the violence on foreign-backed armed
terrorist gangs.
In a statement, Mr Annan, joint envoy for the UN and Arab League, said
there were "indications that a large number of civilians are trapped"
in Homs and Haffa.
Later Mr Ban spoke of the"great danger" to civilians under fire.
"The secretary general underlines the importance of unimpeded access
by UNSMIS to Haffa, amid reports of a build-up of government forces
around the town," he said in a statement.
Syrian government helicopter gunships strafedrebel positions in Haffa,
UN observers and human rights activists said.
The BBC's Paul Danahar: "I was watching a mortar land pretty much every minute"
Heavy fighting was also reported in Rastan and Talbisa, north of Homs
city,"with artillery and mortar shelling, as well as firing from
helicopters, machine guns and smaller arms", said a statement from the
UN Supervision Mission in Syria (Unsmis).
A car bomb exploded in thecity of Deir al-Zour, killing 10 people, the
London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, quoting sources
on the ground.
Fighting was also reported in Idlib province.
It is impossible to confirm these reports independently, as Syria
heavily restricts journalists'freedom of movement.
Russia, which supports the Syrian government, called for Iran to take
a role in ending the 15-month old conflict.
Last week, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton rejected the idea of
involving Iran, which she accused of "helping to stage-manage the
repression" in Syria.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will travel to Tehran on
Wednesday to discuss the initiative, the foreign ministry said.

What to say during Laylat al-Qadr?

"OMessenger of ALLAH! What if I knew which night Lailatul-Qadr was,
then what should I say in it?" The Prophet (PBUH) said.- "Say.-

(Allahumma innaka 'affuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee.)
"O ALLAH You are The One Who pardons greatly, and loves to pardon, so
pardon me."

[reported by at-Tirmithi]

I also wish to remind everyone that all difficulties pass, all
troublespass. Hard times don't last, but strong people do! Worry if
you must, but do not fear. Allah is with you. He is The Forgiving, The
Merciful, The Loving, and the Giver of Peace. Call upon Him,
especially during this blessed time. You have no idea how much your
worship at this special time is valued. Morethan any of us can count.
SubhanAllah.

Tips

Fact of life: One woman brings you into this world crying N the other
ensuresyou continue to do so for the rest of your life!
@
If u r married please ignore this msg, for everyone else: Happy Independence Day
@
Marriage is not just a having a wife, but also worries inherited forever.
@
There`s a way of transferring funds that is even faster than
electronicbanking. It`s called marriage
@
Man: Is there any way for long life? Doctor: Get married. Man: Will it
help? Doctor: No, but the thought of long life will never come.
@
Your wedding day is just the start Of a lifetime full of love N fun.
It just beginsas u take ur vows, When the 2 of u r joined as one

HADEES - ~

Immersed in Sweat According to Deeds
The Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: "The people
will sweat on the Day of Resurrection until their sweat penetrates
seventy cubits into the earth, then it will come up to their ears."
[Bukhari]
People's sweat will flow until it drenches the earth, then it will
start to rise until it reaches a height that will vary according to
their actions. For some, their sweat will reach their ankles, for
others it will reach their knees, or their waists, and for some it
will reach their mouths, like reins.
O Allah! Grant us shade under Your Throne that day, when there will be
no other shade.

Letter from a Reader

Salaam brother,
I have been browsing your website for several weeks now, just reading
through various articles. I just felt the need to thank you and let
you know how truly inspiring you are.
The past few months have been a tremendously difficult for me, and
reading your post about heartbreak really uplifted me in a significant
way. Your insight is truly amazing, and reading your work soothes my
pain amazingly well. Your words are further adorned with the truth
about Allah, the Beloved Messenger andthe reality of love and life. It
is truly a gift that you have been blessed with, and may Allah reward
you for sharing it with us.
I pray Allah blesses you with His eternal Love, Mercy and Kindness –
and that He keeps us all on the loving and noble path of the Beloved
Messenger, ourLeader Mustafa, upon him be peace.
Hope you and your daughter Salma are well, and that you are having a
great Ramadan.
Keep me in your prayers. Stay blessed, always!
Wasalaam

Love Can Change the World

Bridges are more beautiful than bombs are
Bridges are more beautiful than bombs.
Listening is louder than a lecture
Listening is louder than a shout
But Love – Love can changethe world.
Oh do we still believe that
Love – Love can change theworld.
An open hand is stronger than a fist is
An open hand is stronger than a fist
Wonder is more valuable than Wall Street
Wonder is more valuable than gold.
Repeat chorus
May we never stop this dreaming
Of a better world
May we never stop believing
In the impossible.

Letting Go of Material Illusions

As infants, our first seeming victory is being able to grasp – a
finger, a toy, or anything bright. Only later do we realize that the
dunya (the material world) is constantly grasping at us, trying to get
us to buy, eat,feel, possess, own. Forces of greed are trying to get
us to pour our souls down the drain of disposable consumerism, and
poison our planet in the process.
Believers realize at that point that the real struggleis to give up
our love for material things, and let go. To take what we need,
andenjoy the simple pleasures,and not let ourselves be corrupted by
waste.
Doesn't Allah say that the wasters are the brothers ofthe devils?
"And give the relative his right, and [also] the poor and the
traveler, and do not spend wastefully. Indeed, the wasteful are
brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord
ungrateful." (Quran, Al-Israa' 17: 26-27)
Modern society, and Western society in particular, is based on waste.
Everything is disposable, everything is plastic, everything is
buriedin landfills where it seeps into the drinking water, or dumped
into the ocean where it poisons the marine ecosystem. Knowing this,
how are we to regard modern society in view of Allah's statment that
the wasters are the brothers of the devils? And what is our role in
this massive assault on planet earth?
Things are not always as they seem. Consumerism is a spiritual desert,
and the happiness that we think will come from buying this,or owning
that, is a mirage.Buying the latest flat screen TV or data phone will
not make us happy. Owning a McMansion in thesuburbs will not bring us
inner peace. Having a pile of money in the bank will not bring us
closer to Allah,or save our souls, or extendour lives one moment
beyond what has been written, regardless of our insurance plans. In
fact, all those things are balls and chains that bind ours soul and
create stress and worry.
The Messenger of Allah (sws), is reported to have said, "That which is
little yet sufficient is better than that which is much and diverts
man from his goal as a result."
What is the goal? It is the worship of Allah, working
fee-sabeel-illah, and the ultimate goal of Jannah. In the Bible, Jesus
(peace be upon him) asks, "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall
gain the whole world,and lose his own soul?" If you own the most
beautiful furniture, the most expensive clothing, and the coolest
cars, yet you fail in your mission of achieving Jannah, then what have
you achieved? You have ruined yourself.
Let go of these material illusions. We're not infants anymore, trying
to grab any pretty thing and put it in our mouths. We can think
critically. The "reality"that is flashed in our eyes athousand times a
day by commercials, billboards, movies and TV is a lie. See things as
they are. All that matters is Allah. Above all is Allah. Success lies
in our relationship with Allah. Peace and happiness come from being in
harmony with Allah's teachings, which in turn brings us in harmony
with all creation.
Buy less, own less, don't use disposable products, don't throw away
things that can be repaired, re-sold or donated. Hand things down,
pass them on.The best fun is free: playing sports or word games with
your children, walking in the park, swimming at the beach or the
public pool, enjoying tea with friends. Don't worry about owning the
latest gadget. Forget aboutbrand names. The only brands we need are
Muslim, Mu'min, Ummah, Deen. Keep your eyes open,think for yourself,
and don't be fooled by bright illusions.

BLESSED OLIVE TREE

`Umar ibn al-Khattab narrated that Allah's Messenger (PBUH) said:
"Eat olive oil and apply it (as lotion) for it comes from a blessed tree".
Moreover, the olive tree and its oil are mentioned inthe Glorious
Qur'an seven times. Allah, the Almighty swears by the figs and the
olives,
"By the fig, and the olive"
Surat At-Tin (The Fig): 1.
Allah, Glorified be He also referred to the olive tree insurat
Al-Mu'minun (the Believers):
"And a tree (olive) that springs forth from Mount Sinai, that
grows(produces) oil , and (it is a) relish for the eaters."
Surat Al-Mu'minun (The Believers): 20
The oil mentioned in the verse is olive oil. This same tree is praised
by Allah in a third verse:
"… lit from a blessed tree , an olive , neither of the east (i.e.
neither gets sun-rays only in the morning) nor of the west (i.e. nor
it gets sun-rays only in the afternoon, but it is exposed to the sun
all day long), whose oil wouldalmost glow forth (of itself), though no
fire touched it."
Surat An-Nur (The Light): 35
Explanation of the Hadith
The Olive Tree is an evergreen tree, which has ahigh tolerance of
dryness. It is a perennial plant that might live even for more than
1000 years. The cultivated olive (Olea europaea) is grown throughout
the eastern Mediterranean region and in other parts of the world that
have Mediterranean-t ype climates especially in Asia and Africa. The
olive tree has been known since the times of the most ancient
civilizations as one of the most important oil producing plants.
It has been proven lately that the amount of fatty acids in olive oil
is very lowand that it only contains unsaturated fats. That is why it
is considered very healthy, as it is free of the substances that lead
to arteriosclerosi s and even tothe occlusion of the arteries. Through
an accurate survey it has beenfound that eating olive oil regularly
helps protect the body from many diseases including the occlusion of
the coronary arteries, the increase in the ratio of harmful fats in
the blood, the increase in blood pressure, diabetes, some carcinogenic
diseases (e.g. cancer of the stomach, the colon, the breast, the
uterus and the skin), in addition to protection fromulcers of the
digestive system.
One of the main body fats is "Cholesterol", a white crystalline fat
which is present in high amounts in the brain, the spinal cord and the
liver. It is normally synthesized in the liver, theintestine and the
skin, and is important as a mediator in many vital processes. The most
important one of these processes is the synthesis of vitamin E and
many other hormones. Nevertheless, eating excessive amounts of fatty
animal meat, may lead to increasing the level of cholesterol in the
body. Part of this cholesterol will pass to the blood forming a fat
globule that may leadto the obstruction or occlusion of the blood
vessels, and may consequently lead to arteriosclerosi s.
It is well known that the oxidation of cholesterol is one of the
factors that helpaccelerate the hardening ofthe arteries and their
consequent narrowing. It has lately been discovered that olive oil
plays an important role in preventing this oxidation process from
occurring, as it contains vitamin E and other Polyphenolic Compounds,
which inhibit the auto-oxidation of the oil. It also prohibits the
oxidation of harmful cholesterol known as LDL (Low-density
lipoprotein), and purifies the body from the dangers of the Lipid
Peroxides as well as the dangers of other harmful substances.
Therefore, eating olive oil regularly helps lower the total ration of
cholesterol in the blood generally, and reduces the ratio of the
harmful types of cholesterol in particular. The low cancer rate, which
is detected in the Mediterranean region, is attributed to the fact
that the inhabitants of this region regularly have largeamounts of
olives and oliveoil (especially the raw one produced from the first
squeezing process and free from any chemical treatment).
Olive oil is a yellow liquid, rich in Oleic Acids, used in cooking and
as a salad dressing. It is also used in producing many
medicines,medical ointments, hair oilsand soaps. Moreover, because of
its ability, it produces a clear flame when ignited. Olive oil was
used in lighting lamps, especially in large mosquessuch as Aqsa
Mosque, we pray Allah, the Almighty, tohelp us set it free from the
debauchery of the Jews.
In addition to the above-mentioned healthy advantages of the olive
tree and its oil, olives constitute a relish for eaters, a nourishing
food, and an appetizer, and they could be stored through preservation
in salt, which increases their economic value.

Sufism or taṣawwuf

practitioner of this tradition is generally known as a ṣūfī (صُوفِيّ).
Classical Sufi scholars have defined Sufism as "a science whose
objective is the reparation of the heart and turning it away from all
else but God". [ 4 ] Alternatively, in the words of the Darqawi Sufi
teacher
Ahmad ibn Ajiba , "a science through which one can know how to travel
into the presence of the Divine , purify one's inner self from filth,
and beautify it with a variety of praiseworthy traits". [ 5 ]
Classical Sufis were characterised by their attachment to dhikr (a
practice of repeating the names of God) and asceticism . Sufism gained
adherents among a number of Muslims as a reaction against the
worldliness of the early Umayyad Caliphate (661-750 CE [ 6 ] ). Sufis
have spanned several continents and cultures over a millennium, at
first expressed through Arabic, then through Persian, Turkish and a
dozen other languages. [ 7 ] "Orders" ( ṭuruq ), which are either
Sunnī or Shī'ī or mixed [ 8 ] in doctrine, trace many of theiroriginal
precepts from the Islamic Prophet Muhammad through his cousin 'Alī ,
with thenotable exception of the Naqshbandi who trace their origins
through the first Caliph , Abu Bakr . [ 9 ] Other exclusive schools of
Sufism describe themselves as distinctly Sufi. [ 10 ] Modern Sufis
often perform dhikr
after the conclusion of prayers. [ 11 ]
Some mainstream scholars of Islam define sufism as simply the name for
the inner or esoteric dimension of Islam. [ 1 ] René Guénon in
Insights into Islamic Esoterism and Taoism (Sophia Perennis 2003)
contended that Sufism was the esoteric aspect of Islam supported and
complemented by exoteric practices and Islamic law. However,
accordingto Idries Shah , the Sufi philosophy is universal in nature,
its roots predating the rise of Islam and the other modern-day
religions, save for perhaps
Buddhism and Jainism ; likewise,some Muslims consider Sufism outside
the sphere of Islam. [ 1 ] [ 12 ]

Ruling on eating fromthe husband's ill-gotten gains

Question
I have two sisters; the husband of one of them works as a driver at a
bank while the other works in the maintenance department at a hotel
that serves wine. My two sistersrefrain from eating from the money of
their husbands. Is the work of their husbands, and their gains,
unlawful? Do they (my sisters) have the right to do so? If yes, is it
permissible for me to give them some of my money from Zakaah
(obligatory charity) to eat from?
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify
that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad
, is His Slaveand Messenger.
First of all, we would like to thank your sisters for their keenness
to free their liability and eat from lawfully earned sustenance. The
earnings ofthese two husbands are ill-gotten gains. The one who works
as a driver at a bank is worse than the other one as Riba (usury)
isworse than intoxicants andthe driver carries the Riba-based
contracts and other things and takes his salary from the bank in
return for doing this. As for the other man who works at the
maintenance department of a hotel that serves intoxicants, his gain is
suspected and he will bear a sin as his work is part of preparing this
place.
To conclude, these two jobs are counted among the ill-gotten gains.
Allaah The Almighty Says (what means):
· {O you who have believed,eat from the good things which We have
provided for you} [Quran 2:172]
· {and makes lawful for them the good things and prohibits for them
the evil} [Quran 7:157]
They are also cooperating in sin and aggression. Allaah The Almighty
Says (what means): {but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.}
[Quran 5:2]
We should all fear Allaah asmuch as we can. Allaah TheAlmighty Says
(what means): {And whoever fears Allaah - He will make for him a way
out} [Quran 65:2]
In fact, the one who sincerely seeks lawfully earned sustenance will
be guided by Allaah The Almighty to find it.
If they do not accept the advice and continue with their work, and
your sistersneed money to buy food and the like, you might paythem
what is sufficient for them from the Zakaah that is due on your
property.
Allaah Knows best/

Her husband forces her to live in the same house with his brother

Question
My question is my husbandis forcing me to stay with his married
brother ,I had told him about the hadiths mentioning that "brother in
law is death" living together may cause many problems,but he doesnt
seems to listen,he says thatI just have to maintain my Hijab thats
all.Wht can I do?since his wife is also a nonmehram to him that will
be a probs.As a muslimwomen I dont get my rights from my husband,he
doesnt agrees to the rights of women in Islam.Please advise.
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify
that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad
, is His slaveand Messenger.
It is your right as a wife to get a separate accommodation where
youwould be safe from any harm and where you would not be embarrassed.
Besides, it is not permissible for you to obeyyour husband in dwelling
with your brother-in-law inthe same house whose amenities are not
separate,where his brother could see you (without Hijaab) orbe in
seclusion with you, orwhere there is any other matter that might lead
to temptation.
Even if we presume that you can take the necessary measures to avoid
these prohibitions and always wear Hijaab, then this may cause much
hardship to you. So, your husband has no right to oblige you to live
in such a situation. For more benefit, please refer to Fatwa 84608 .
Based on this, it is permissible for the wife to ask for divorce as a
way of repelling harm off herself ifher husband does not provide her
with an accommodation that is Islamically acceptable.
There is no doubt that yourhusband is also obliged to abide by the
Islamic conditions in dealing with the wife of his brother as she is a
non-Mahram to him. Therefore, we warn against being lenient in such
kind of dealings within one family as this is one of the major reasons
ofcorruption. The Hadeeth that is mentioned in the question which
reads 'the male in-law is death itself' is the best evidence in this
regard. The text of the Hadeeth is as follows: Uqbah Ibn 'Aamer
narrated that the Prophet said: " Beware of entering upon women"; a
man from the Ansaar asked: 'O Messenger of Allaah, what do you say
about the male in-law (the woman's husband's male relative like his
brother, uncle, cousin, etc.)?' He replied: "He is death itself (i.e.
his seclusion with her is as serious and dangerousas death) . "
[Bukhaari and Muslim] For more benefit, please refer to Fatwa 154373 .
As regards what you mentioned about your husband that he does not
agree with the women's rights in Islam, then this needs more
clarification [aswe do not know exactly what you mean] For general
information in this regard, please refer to Fataawa 81205 and 88304 .
Allaah Knows best./

A ‘New Look’ for the Spirit

'New look' is a widespread term today. It is mainly concerned with the
outward appearance and how to change it.
However, it seldom refers to deeds and actions whichenable both the
woman and the man to create a new look for their lives by viewing life
from a new perspective. Renewing the appearance is desirable and
important; however, it should be done in a positive way. We need a new
look for the spirit first to cast splendor and light on the outward
appearance.
Actors' Innovation
Marwah Muhammad Ahmad, a translator, says, "Change is a basic feature
in man's life, for permanence is only for Allaah The Exalted. Hence,
man always tries to make changes in his life, including his
appearance. Change of appearance has usually been known as 'fashion',
which differs fromone year to another. Today,however, a new name and
style of change, which is called the 'New Look', has emerged. It was
originally invented by actors and artists. It seems to express their
desire to combat boredom and renew their youth, as they say. To them,
this New Look means a change in the color of hair and hairstyle, the
color of complexion as well as the style of dressing." She further
said, "Nowadays, the youth are afflicted with blind imitation and seek
to have a new character through the New Look that is restricted to
external change. I do not know howthe external change can have a
significant effect on life. It is the internal change that lasts and
is more beneficial. Hence, the concept of a New Look should be viewed
differently in a way that makes the change related, for example, to
one's lifestyle and way of treating others."
Saamiyah Sayyid, a working woman, says, "TheNew Look has spread widely
among artists recently. There is an artist who is over sixty years old
but looks as if he were onlytwenty. This is, of course, only in his
appearance as the organs of the body experience no renovation, for
Allaah The Exalted wants man to experience that stage, and this is the
norm of life. Man should enjoy every stage of his lifewithin the
limits of what Allaah The Almighty destined for him of childhood,
youth and old age."
The Need for Renewal
Sawsan Bahaa', a BA in Instantaneous Translation, says that the
definition of 'New Look' is to have a new appearance. In this context,
renewing one's appearance is desirable and preferred from time to
time.
As mankind is keen on possessing new things, he is also happy to renew
and change his feelings from sadness to happiness and to experience
different feelings when shifting fromone stage of life to another. It
is like his feelingwhenever he undergoes a new experience, meets new
people or visits new places. Thus, renewal is considered a permanent
and necessary need for every person to drive him/her forward.
However,some people may exaggerate in seeking a new look or a new
appearance. The desire for renewal may prompt one to seek an
eye-catching appearance even if this appearance contradicts the
general taste or customs ofthe society or even the teachings of one's
religion.
This reveals the importanceof caution and wisdom when choosing new
things to avoid the diminution of one's credit of esteem and
admiration in people's eyes, which might be caused by an unrestrained
pursuit of new things. Caution and wisdom also help one maintain the
features which distinguish his character. Therefore, there must be
balance between one's desire and what he has to achieve of the noble
objectives which please him when he fulfills them.
Heba Salaah, a university lecturer, confirms that the New Look is a
widespread phenomenon that focuses on one's outward appearance, and
that is why scholars of religion must be consulted first whether this
is lawful or not before changing one's shape and appearance.
'Ula 'Abdul-Ghani 'Ali, a government employee, says, "There is
something that has a close meaning tothe New Look; which is changing
one's features by having cosmetic surgery which gives the person a new
appearance and features like changing the size of the nose or the
mouth. The other, more distant, meaning of the New Look refers to the
person's direction towards new thought that springs from the person
himself as he wants to change his character with respect to his views
and principles in life. Sometimes, one's views change when he leaves
his place of residence and meets new people with whom he did not deal
before. One may experience some crises which polish his character and
make it stronger and firmer.
"However, many people donot prefer to make outward changes in their
appearance. They prefer to keep the appearance with which Allaah The
Almighty created them. Also, it is difficult to change the character
of some people regardless of the external effects to which they are
exposed."

HADEES :- ~

Salam alaikum, I have read this story on a website andwould like to
know, if this story is known and authentic? 'Umar ibn al-Khattab, radi
Allahu anhu, said that a man cameto his house to complain about his
wife. On reachingthe door of his house, he hears 'Umar's wife shouting
at him and reviling him. Seeing this, hewas about to go back, thinking
that 'Umar himselfwas in the same position and, therefore, could
hardlysuggest any solution for hisproblem. 'Umar, radi Allahuanhu, saw
the man turn back, so he called him and enquired about the purpose of
his visit. He saidthat he had come with a complaint against his wife,
but turned back on seeing the Caliph in the same position. 'Umar, radi
Allhu anhu, told him that he tolerated the excesses of his wife for
she had certain rights against him. He said,"Is it not true that she
prepares food for me, washes clothes for me and suckles my children,
thus saving me the expense of employing a cook, a washerwoman and a
nurse, though she is not legally obliged in any way to do any of these
things? Besides, I enjoy peace of mind because of her and am kept away
from indecent acts on account ofher. I therefore tolerate all her
excesses on account of these benefits. It is right that you should
also adopt the same attitude." (Quoted in Role of Muslim Women in
Society: Afzular Rahman, page 149)

HEALTH - -

* use translator to read :->
சருமத்தை காக்கும் கற்றாழை ஜெல்பேக்!
வீட்டுத்தோட்டத் தில் வளர்க்கப்படும் சோற்றுக்கற்றாழை முக அழகை
பாதுகாக்கும் அழகு சாதனப்பொருளாக பயன்படுகிறது. கோடைகாலத்தில் சருமம்
வறட்சியடையாமல் பாதுகாப்பதோடு கொப்புளங்கள், முகப்பரு போன்றவைஏற்படாமல்
தடுக்கிறது. கற்றாழையை உபயோகித்து காசு செலவில்லாமல் சருமத்தை
பாதுகாப்பதற்கு அழகியல் நிபுணர்கள் கூறும் ஆலோசனையை படியுங்களேன்.
கோடை கொப்புளங்கள்
கோடைகாலத்தில் சருமத்தில் ஆங்காங்கே கொப்புளங்கள் ஏற்படுவது இயல்பு.
இதனால் வலியும் எரிச்சலும் ஏற்படும். இதற்கு கற்றாலை சிறந்த
மருந்தாகசெயல்படுகிறது. கற்றாழையை பறித்து அதனை பிழிந்து சாறு எடுத்து
அதில் சில துளிகள் எலுமிச்சை சேர்த்து கலக்கவும். இதனை ஒரு பருத்தி
துணியில் தொட்டு முகத்தில் நன்றாக அப்ளை செய்யவும். பத்து நிமிடம்
கழித்து வெதுவெதுப்பான நீரில் கழுவி விடலாம். இதனால் சருமம் பொலிவாகும்.
சருமம் வறட்சி நீங்கி ஈரப்பதத்தை தக்கவைக்கலாம்.
மூலிகை பேக்
கற்றாழைச் செடி அனைத்து சருமத்திற்கும் ஏற்ற சிறந்த மூலிகை யாகும். இதனை
ஜெல் போல செய்து முகத்தில் பூசி வர சருமம் ஜொலிக்கும். கற்றாழை செடியை
பறித்து நன்றாக அரைத்து அதனுடன் ரோஸ் வாட்டர் சேர்க்கவும் கண்களைத் தவிர
பிற பகுதிகளில் திக்காக பேக் போல போடவும். பின்னர் நன்றாக மூன்று
நிமிடங்கள் வரை மசாஜ் செய்யவும். இதனால் முகத்தில் உயிரிழந்த செல்கள்
உதிர்ந்து விடும். பதினைந்து நிமிடங்கள் கழித்து முகத்தை கிளன்சர் கொண்டோ
அல்லது குளிர்ந்த நீரிலோகழுவி விடலாம். வாரம் ஒருமுறை இவ்வாறு செய்து வர
முகம் பொலிவாகவும் மென்மையாக இருக்கும்.
முகப்பரு வராது
கற்றாழையை பறித்து அதை நன்றாக கொதிக்கும் நீரில் போட்டு வேக வைக்கவும்.
இதனை எடுத்து நன்றாக அரைக்கவும் அதனுடன் தேன் சேர்க்கவும். இந்த கலவையை
நன்றாக முகம் முழுவதும் அப்ளை செய்யவும். நன்றாக காயவிட்டு பின்னர்
குளிர்ந்த நீரில் கழுவவும். இதனை வாரம் ஒருமுறை செய்து வர முகப்பரு
இருந்தால் மறைந்து விடும். முகப்பருவே வடுக்களோ ஏற்படாது. சென்சிடிவ்
சருமம் உள்ளவர்கள் கற்றாழையுடன்வெள்ளரிக்காய், தயிர் சேர்த்து அரைத்து
பேஸ்ட் போல செய்யவும். பதினைந்து நிமிடம் ஊறவைத்து நன்றாக குளிர்ந்த
நீரில் கழுவ முகம் புத்துணர்ச்சியோ டு இருக்கும்.

Fasting the month of Rajab

Question:
I'm in Cote d'Ivoire and people are fasting for themonth of Rajab. Is
it a true Ibadaat or a Bid'ah? Please answer with any helpful
information to get the right position.
Fatwa:
All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify
that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad
is His slave and Messenger.
There is disagreement among scholars concerning fasting the month of
Rajab. Some scholars believe it is desirable to fast the month of
Rajab for the following:
A) General arousal of an interest in fast. This, in fact, is a
comprehensive rule with so many proofs.
B) Special arousal of an interest in fasting the sacred months, i.e.
Rajab,Thul Qi'dah, Thul Hijjah and Muharram. In addition to that, the
majority of Muslim scholars believe that is recommendable to fast
those months, especially Rajab. They based their opinion on the
following Ahadeeth.
1) Mujeebah al-Baahili reported from his father (or uncle) that the
Prophet told him: "Fast during the sacred months and leave (fasting),
fast during the sacred months and leave" [Ahmad and Abu Dawoodand the
words of this Hadeeth are of Abu Dawood's narration.]
2) From Usaamah Ibn Zaid who said: "O Allaah's Messenger! I never find
you fasting in any month like you do during the month of Sha'baan'.
The Prophet said: "That is a month the people neglect. It comes
between Rajab and Ramadhaan.It is a month in which the deeds are
raised to the Lord of the Worlds. I love that my deeds be raised while
I am fasting" [Ahmad and al-Nasaa'i].
ash-Shawkaani said: 'As for the apparent meaning of words; Sha'baan is
a month the people (the Prophet's companions) neglect. It is between
Rajab and Ramadhaan;they mean that it is desirable to fast Rajab since
it appears that the Prophet's companions honorSha'baan with fasting as
they honor Ramadhaan and Rajab (with fasting). It is also possible
that those words mean that the Prophet's companions honorSha'baan with
fasting as they honor Rajab with sacrifices, since it was a habit of
people before Islam to honor it with sacrifices as proven in the
Sunnah. But, we think the first opinion is more correct. And Islam
effaced the habits and traces of the pre-Islamic period. But, the goal
is to state the legality of fasting Rajab from thegeneral and special
points of view. In general, there are manyAhadeeth that urge Muslims
to fast during the sacred months, and Rajab is one of them. And there
are many Ahadeeth concerning legality of unfixed fasts.'
Then, ash-Shawkaani mentioned some Ahadeeth concerning excellence of
fasting Rajab as recorded by al-Tabaraani, al-Baihaqi, Abu Nu'aim and
Ibn 'Asaakir .
He added: 'as-Subki related from Muhammad Ibn Mansoor al-Sam'aani who
said that 'There is no strong narration in the Sunnah concerning
desirability of fastingRajab. Then, all narrations that were related
in this matter were weak. According to a narration of Ibn Abi Shaibah
thatUmar used to beat the hands of people to put them in bowls and
say: 'Eat! It is a month that was honored before Islam.' Another
narration by Ibn Abi Shaibah from Zaid Ibn Aslam who said: 'Allaah's
Messenger was asked about the fasting of Rajab and he said: "Why don't
you fast in Sha'baan?" Another narration from Ibn 'Umar indicates that
it is disliked to fast Rajab.
ash-Shawkaani added: 'It is clear that if special narrations do not
constitute a proof to the desirability of fasting during Rajab,
general narrations constitute such an evidence, since there is no
proof that makes fasting disliked. As for Abu Dawood's narration from
Ibn 'Abbaas that the Prophet Interdicted fasting Rajab. We state that
this narration is weak. Here, we state that al-'Iz Ibn 'Abd-us-Salaam
dispraised those who prevented people from fasting the month of Rajab
as cited from him by IbnHajar al-Haitami .'
However, some scholars believe that it is disliked to fast during the
month of Rajab and al-Hanabila are among them depending on the
above-mentioned narration of the Hadeeth of Ibn 'Abbaas about 'Umar
asking people to eat and stop fasting in that month. Imaam Ibn
Qudaamah said: 'It is disliked to single out Rajab with fasting.'
As for fasting the sacred months, al-Hanaabilah agreed the majority
concerning the desirability of fasting during these months. Then,
al-Hanaabilah believe if a person leaves fasting one day of Rajab,
then the reprehensibility of its fasting is vanished. al-Mirdaawi, may
Allah's Mercy be upon him, said: 'It is disliked to single out Rajab
with fasting. This is the opinion of Hanbali school, and it is one
ofthe school's issues that are not agreed upon with others.'

HADEES - ~

On the authority of Abu al-Abbas Abdullahibn Abbas (radiyallahuanhum) who said: One day, I was riding behind the Prophet (sallallahu alaiyhi wa sallam) and he said tome, "O young man, I shall teach you some words (of advice). Be mindful of Allah and Allah will protect you. Be mindful of Allah and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, ask of Allah. If you seek help, seek help in Allah. Know that if the nation were to gather together to benefit you with something, they would not be able to benefit you with anything except what Allah has already recorded for you. And if they gather to harm you bysomething, they would not be able to harm you by anythingexcept what Allah has already recorded against you. The pens have been lifted and the pages have dried." (at-Tirmidi)

Moving Beyond Blame

I wrote the piece above over ten years ago. It has taken me almost
these entire ten years to learn to forgive myself. I still sometimes
see someone on the street who looks like Joe, and I have a moment of
excitement, then I remember that he is gone. But I don't blame myself
anymore. I made a mistake, but I'm not responsible for Joe putting a
needle in his arm. With everything he had to live for, he had no
excuse. If having a family, friends and freedom wasn't enough of a joy
for him, then it's unlikely that anything I said would havemade a
difference.
I don't want to blame Joe either. He lost the battle against his
internal demons, and that's enoughfor me to say. I still love him. I
guess I've gotten beyond blame, to a place of understanding or
acceptance. I'm able to think of Joe with gratitude,and with no
bitterness or regret to color it. I originally titled this piece,
"Trying to Remember the Good Times", but if I had written it today I
might callit, "Remembering a Kind Soul."
That's the miracle and glory of the human heart. That is one of the
countlessblessings of Allah. He gives us hearts that heal, and spirits
that forgive, and Time, our dear friend, who carries away all wounds
in the gentle sweep of its current.
"Allah said: 'Sons of Adam inveigh against [the vicissitudes of]
Time,but I am Time, in My hand is the night and theday.'" (hadith
qudsi, agreed upon)
If Allah is Time, and Allah isAr-Rahman ir-Raheem (TheMerciful and
Mercy-Giving), then time is a mercy and ablessing. The passage of
time is a balm and a cure.
I try to do better now in reaching out to anyone I care about who
might be in pain. I try to express something about the deen to the
non-Muslims in my life. I don't preach, but I share my enthusiasm for
Islam in small ways, and I offer a perspective that includes Allah.
If I could go back, what would I do differently? I have come to
realize that the question serves no purpose. The Polk Street festival
is a memory, a day in history, an image on a fading photo. Agonizing
over it does not help.
A better question is, what will I do differently today? What will I do
differently tomorrow, when the California sun comes up blazing, and
the world is new again, and I am blessed beyond belief with another
opportunity to redeem my soul, and to love my family and friends,and
to prostrate to Allah, and to change the world?

Recognising computer addiction in adolescents

When trying to determine whether a child is addicted to computer games
or the Internet, parents should not only consider the amount of time
the child spends at it.
This is according to Klaus Woelfling, co-director of the Outpatient
Gambling Addiction Department at Mainz University Medical Centre's
Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy.
More important, said Mr. Woelfling in an interview with DPA , are the
situations, in which adolescents sit in front of acomputer screen —
"for example, when they're stressed or have personal problems." Some
addicts spend a constant amount of time in front of a computer, but
that period is of heightened intensity.
"This means they feel an urge to use their computer on a particular
occasion, or always at the same time," said Mr. Woelfling, adding
there was no clear-cut line between addiction and non-addiction.
A further sign of addiction is preoccupation. If parentsfeel their
child's life revolves around computer games or online chats,
theyshould speak to the child about it, he said.
"If, when out with their child, parents realise the child is getting
restless andbadly wants to go home tothe computer, they should ask,
'Why is it so importantto you right now?'" Mr. Woelfling advised.
Parents should not be reproachful. This increases their chancesof
gaining insight into howthe child thinks.
Computer addicts display withdrawal symptoms when denied access to a
PC. "Parents might receive threats if the PC is removedfrom the
child's room," Mr. Woelfling noted. This previously unknown side of
the child shocks parents,he said.
Confronted with their addiction, addicts typically deny that they have
a problem. So parents shouldproceed cautiously and describe their
impressions only. It is better to say, "I think you've got an
addictive disorder" than "You've got a real addiction," Mr. Woelfling
said.
If signs point to an addiction, parents should try to take their child
to a counselling centre. A conversation will then determine whether
the child is ready for treatment. "You can't treat anyone against his
or her will, though," Mr. Woelflingsaid.

Good Morning tips

Lines by a depressed hearti don't know why life teaches me so many
lessons, when i am not interested in learning.good morning
]
Unbeaten thought ever take what ever u can fromur life.. bcoz.. when
life starts taking from u.. it takes even ur last breath.good morning
]
May you rise each texting day with fully charged cell phone in your
hand, Inspiring message in your mind, me in your heart Good Morning
]
morning shows the day destination shows the way don't u under stand
what i say hey good morning
]
Friendship need no promises No demands Andno expectations it just
needs two people ONE COOL LIKE ME AND ONE SWEET LIKE YOU Good Morning

Mosques Around The Globe

Faisal Mosque construction:In 1969, an international competition was held in
which architects from 17 countries submitted 43 proposals. After four
days of deliberation, Turkish architect Vedat
Dalokay's design was chosen.

* * 27th of Rajab and 14th of Sha'baan

* * Question:
I have to question concerning the month of Rajab and Sha'ban.
Somepeople say that the 27th Rajab and 14th of Sha'ban nights of
worship. Please explain in detail, so I can help myPakistani community
to understand this, because in our country they said that it is a
special night and I don't see any evidence in the Hadeeth why they
said that also. Is there is a difference in belief?
Fatwa:
All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify
that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad
is His slave and Messenger.
There are several kinds offasting. Among these kinds are:
1) Obligatory: observing the fast during the wholemonth of Ramadhaan
is an obligation for all Muslims.
2) Supererogatory: this category embraces fasts on particular
occasions such as the 9th and 10th days of Muharram, the day of
Arafah, fasting three days each month, fasting of Monday and Thursday
each week. It is Sunnah to observing fasting on those days.
As for fasting on the day of al-Israa and al-Mi'raaj, it is not proved
in the Sunnah of the Prophet . If it was recommendable, the Prophet
would have stated so as we have seen concerning supererogatory
fasting.
Thus, it is not correct to observe fasting on this specific day. Then,
there is difference among scholars concerning specifying the day of
al-Israa. Ibn Hajar in al-Fat'h mentioned that there are more than ten
opinions in this concern. This disagreement indicates that this day
has no special significance for fasting orspending its night in
performing prayers. If so, the Prophet and his companions would not
have missed it.
Basing on the above-mentioned, we state thatit is Bid'ah (innovation)
to fast this day as an observance since there is no correct Prophetic
narration in this concern. But, if fasting on this day coincides with
any supererogatory fasting orone's regular fasts (Monday or day after
day)then it is legal to fast thisday (the 27th Rajab).
As for spending the nightof 15th of Sha'baan in prayers and other
forms of worship, there are several Ahadeeth (Prophetic narrations) in
this concern, but there is disagreement among scholars concerning the
authenticity of these Ahadeeth. Some scholars consider those Ahadeeth
weak; other scholars consider them sound. Thus, according to some
Fuqahaa (jurists), it is desirable to spend this night in optional
forms ofworship such as prayer …
According to Ibn Taymiyyah some of as-Salaf (our righteous
predecessors) were used to spending this night (15th of Sha'baan) in
prayers and other forms of worship. But, some of as-Salaf disliked
gathering people at Mosque for this night andconsidered that as
Bid'ah(innovation). Nowadays, many Muslims perform a special prayer
with special recital on this night. This form certainly is Bid'ah.
Imaam al-Nawawi said: 'A prayer that is known asSalaat ar-Raghaa'ib,
which is of 12 Raka'hs, performed between al-Maghrib and al-Ishaa at
the 1st Friday night of Rajab and a prayer of the 15th of Sha'baan
(100 Raka'hs) are two forms of Bid'ah and are abominable actions. We
should not observe them... Then, their Hadeeth is false.'
The Hadeeth that indicated to by al-Nawawi in the above paragraph is
as follows: 'Whoever prays a 100 Raka'hs at the night of 15th of
Sha'baan, Allaah will send a hundred angels for him. Thirty ones give
him glad tidings concerning Paradise; thirty others give him more
confidencethat he will be safe from entering the Hell; thirty keep him
safe from the evils of this present life; the last ten ward the wiles
of the devil off.' This Hadeeth is invalid, al-Nawawi said.
Finally, a Muslim is required to adhere to obedience at this night
(15th of Sha'baan) and allother nights, to avoid all forms of
polytheism and to pardon his brothers sothat he may gain the
bestexcellence and favor. Then, he is required to avoid all forms of
Bid'ah, since good lies in following the Sunnah and evil lies in
innovations.
Allaah knows best./

Innovations during the Month of Rajab

Allaah Almighty bestows favors and grants bounties upon His slaves,
during all times, to help expiate their sins, elevate their ranks and
make up for their shortcomings. Allaah Almighty legislated for us a
month during which we observe fasting, another which we perform
pilgrimage in, and one or two extra days to fast during the remaining
months. He also legislated prayer during the night and the Witr
prayer, the Ud'hiyah ('Eed sacrifice), and the'Aqeeqah, (birth
sacrifice) and many other virtuous deeds. All of these are ways of
opening different channels for righteous deeds and methods to energize
us by shifting from one form of worship to another, and therefore, not
become weary, but continue to worship Allaah Almighty. This is indeed
a great favor from Allaah upon us.
Moreover, we find that any act of worship which causes the people to
come closer to Allaah Almighty is mentioned in His Book or in the
Sunnah of His Prophet . The problem is in those people who try to come
close to Allaah and gain His reward by looking outside these two
sources, and thus, divert from the right path.
The Prophet sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam said during his farewell
pilgrimage, "I have left with you that, which if you adhere to, you
will never go astray, the Book of Allaah".
And Allaah Says (what means): "… And whatever the Messengerhas given
you – take; and what he has forbidden you – refrain from. And fear
Allaah; indeed, Allaah is severe in penalty." [Quran: 59:7]
Allaah Almighty dispraised the Arabs during the pre-Islamic period
because they interfered in that which they had no right in, and
started changing what is lawful to unlawful, and what is unlawful to
lawful, and recommending that which Allaah Almighty did not. They used
to shift around the times ofthe sacred months and change the names of
the months because they did not want to wait for this long period to
finish.
Ibn Katheer said, "Dealing with the legislations of Allaah with one's
corrupt mind and reasoning, and changing the rulings of Allaah
according to their desires, and deeming lawful what is unlawful, were
some of the things for which Allaah dispraised the disbelievers."
The Arabs had also forbidden upon themselves slaughtering certain
animals, by setting somelaws which Allaah Almighty did not legislate,
so Allaah Almighty dispraised them for that. Thus we know that
worshipping Allaah Almighty is something which is not permitted except
through that which He The Most High has legislated Himself and through
His messenger . Anyone who wants to draw closer to Allaah and gain His
reward, love and pleasure through other channels, will get the
contrary result, because Allaah Almighty does not accept from people
except that which He legislated for them.
During the month of Rajab, which is one of the sacred months, some
Muslims make some wrong practices through which they intend to come
closer to Allaah Almighty and gain His forgiveness, love and pleasure.
But they seek that through acts of worship which He did not permit nor
legislate, and although they are seeking something good, they do not
achieve it.
The point is not only in having a sincere and good intention, but the
deed itself must be legitimate, or else it will be rejected. Who dare
say that a deed is rejected by Allaah Almighty? Who told him that
thedeed is rejected? The one who told us this is the truthful Prophet
Muhammad who said: "He who introduces any deed into our matter (Islam)
which is not from it then it is rejected." [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
'Aa'ishah narrated that the Prophet said: "He who performs any deed
which is not according to what we are upon (i.e., the Prophet and his
Companions) then it is rejected." [Muslim] Therefore, any deed which
is not in accordance with what Islam has come with is rejected.
One of the practices during the month of Rajab which was done during
the pre-Islamic period, is to offer sacrifices and call it 'Far'a and
'Ateerah. The Muslimsscholars said Islam voided this practice. Abu
Hurayrah narrated that the Prophet said: "No Fara'. No 'Ateerah."
[Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
Ar-Raghaa'ib prayer is another thing which people innovated which was
never legislated by Allaah nor His Messenger . The scholars said,
"There isno authentic Hadith regarding a special prayer during the
month of Rajab, and all the narrations concerning Ar-Raghaa'ib prayer
are fabricated lies." They also said, "This prayer was innovatedafter
the fourth century and wasnever known before that, and no one from the
scholars during the first virtuous generations ever mentioned it."

the Root of Evil and Sins

There is no doubt that a virtuousperson does not find it easy to utter
obscenities lest he or she expose him/herself to the Wrathof Allaah
The Almighty and disgrace in the eyes of people. Although vulgarity is
certainly dispraised and forbidden, foul words indeed abound.
Motives behind this behavior
Obscenity originates from wickedness and ignobility. It is either
motivated by the intention of harming others or isa habit acquired
from socializingwith evil and debauched people,who are accustomed to
insultingothers. Whatever the case, Allaah The Almighty has forbidden
crude language in the verse (which means): {Allaah does not like the
public mention of evil except by one who has been wronged. And ever is
Allaah Hearing and Knowing.} [Quran 4:148]
Moreover, in His Book, He illustrated obscenity as characteristic of
hypocrites, describing their conduct with believers, saying (what
means): {But when fear departs, they lash you with sharp tongues,
indisposed toward [any] good.} [Quran 33:19]
A believer does not imitate the insolent and crass people, preferring
to stick to chivalry for the sake of preserving his or her honor. It
was said in this regard,"Tolerating an abusive man is better than
being like him and forgiving the ignorant is better than copying him."
Examples of obscenity
There are many situations and times when people of weak faith and bad
manners resort to vulgarity. Imam Al-Ghazaali exemplified that by
saying: "Situations of obscenity are various. They can generally be
limited to any state that a person feels ashamed to overtly divulge.
In this case, explicit words are considered obscenity. Therefore, one
must discuss such issues in vague terminology." Most of the relevant
examples would be those concerning sexual intercourse and its related
matters. While wicked people employ graphic and crass words when
speaking about this, the righteous avoid such crude language and
express themselves with figurative speech. Are we not aware that even
Allaah The Almighty spoke indirectly about sexual intercourse,
mentioning instead,words like touching, entering with [women] and
companionship?
There is also obscenity in making remarks about women or defects in
men that they may be ashamed of, such as a limp orbaldness. Any such
comments, if necessary, should not be explicitly referred to.
The Prophet classified obscenity as a branch of hypocrisy and said,
"Indeed, Allaah hates the indecent and obscene person." Moreover, he
mentioned that vulgarity leads to Hell, when he said: "Modesty is from
faith, and faith is in Paradise; [whereas], obscenity is from
severity, and severity is in Hell."

HADEES :- ~

Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Umar(R.A):
Allah's Apostle said, "Not towish to be the like except of two men. A
man whom Allah has given the knowledge of the Book and he recites it
during the hours of the night, and a man whom Allah has givenwealth,
and he spends it in charity during the night and the hours of the
day."
Sahih Bukhari: Volume 6, Book 61, Number 543/