An-Nur: Volume 8 - Issue 1 (October 7, 2005) by Al-Nur Literary Magazine

“ALLAH IS THE PROTECTOR OF THOSE WHO BELIEVE. HE BRINGS THEM OUT FROM DARKNESS INTO LIGHT.” [HOLY QUR’AN]

“The Light”

An-Nur

The newsletter of the Muslim Students’ Association & the Muslim Women of Maryland

MWM

Muslim Women of Maryland

Volume 8, Issue 1

(Belated) Welcome Back MSA!

Inside this issue: MSA Activities

MWM Activities

Revelations of the Heart

Building the Ummah

Night of Power

Path To A Better Life

Creative Writing

Crossword Puzzle

Ramadan 1426 October 7, 2005

MSA History Founded in 1969, the Muslim Students' Association is an organization dedicated to serving the Muslim students on campus and educating the campus community about Islam and Muslims. We carry out Islamic activities, sponsor social, community service, and charity events, and strengthens relations and understanding between Muslims and non-Muslims.

by Mohamed Abutaleb hosamhaggag Note: The following article was “borrowed”and “slightly modified” (see last line) from the “President’s Welcome” article in a previous An-Nur edition. hosamhaggag does not condone plagiarism in any shape or form and reminds us all of the importance of the Islamic character of honesty. People who are destined to make an impact on humanity are often poised to do so from an early age; rarely do the pages of history record someone’s impact only late in his life. The Prophet, peace be upon him, was known as ―As-Sadiq Al-Ameen‖ (The Truthful, The Trustworthy) decades before revelation descended upon him at the age of 40. Imam An-Nawawi, may the mercy of Allah (swt) be upon him, died in his thirties but had already authored dozens of books and made an impact on Islamic knowledge that was never to be forgotten. Albert Einstein did some of his best work on relativity, Brownian motion, and other physics as a young patent clerk just out of college. Gauss, whom many contend may be the best mathematician of all time, had already invented new branches of mathematics in his upper teens. The examples continue – the Prophets, righteous youth of the Qur’an, Martin Luther King Jr., Mozart – but the pattern is consistent and clear. This governing principle should come as no surprise to the one who is wellversed in the teachings of the Qur’an. The Qur’an says about Prophet Yahya that Allah ―granted him wisdom while yet a child‖ (19:12). When the people of Ibrahim were asked who had destroyed their idols, they responded, ―We heard a young boy mentioning them, called by the name of Ibrahim‖ (21:60). Allah the Exalted revealed an entire chapter of the Holy Qur’an, entitled ―The Cave‖, about a group of youth for whom

Allah changed the physical laws of the universe in honor of their righteous stand. And these are only a few among numerous examples. The university is a wonderful opportunity for one to make a life-altering decision – to aspire to be like these luminous examples we have mentioned, or to choose to pass by life without achieving anything special. The university setting provides a great opportunity to build a solid foundation for a lifetime of excellence in one’s field of choice. The campus is a smaller model of a society where one can learn to interact with a diverse population before being faced with the challenge of dealing with society at large; it also provides a forum for developing friendships and relationships that can last a lifetime. Beyond that, the flexible schedule of a college student, when coupled with effective time management and planning, can provide many opportunities for self-development outside of academics – some students memorize the Qur’an, write their first book, or begin founding a successful business during their college years. And that now brings us to the subject of this article – welcoming you to the Muslim (Continued on page 10)

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1

Page 2

MSA Activities

MSA Welcome Back Dinner 2005 by Rafia Ali Old friends were united; new friendships were born; as Muslim students found their way to the Colony Ballroom on September 15th, for the MSA’s annual Welcome Back dinner. It was a great way to begin the new semester, an evening filled with food, friends, and a touching program. The night started off with a comedic singing number by Rashad Ahmad, illustrating the frustrations most Muslim students encounter in their first few weeks of school at Maryland. We heard from

MWM President Fasiha Khan, who gave a strong introduction about the Muslim Women of Maryland, and what preparations they are making for the oncoming semester. MSA President, Hosam Haggag, welcomed both current and new Muslim Students to Maryland. His speech was touching and inspirational, delving into the many aspects of the Muslims Students’ Association. He invited us to take on a different perspective of what our organization is about, and how we can work for the sake of Allah (swt). His latest project, Rope of Allah, was introduced by Sherihan Youssaf and Dina Raafat, both seniors at UMCP. The Rope of Allah will, inshaAllah, bring Muslim students together to work on increasing their friendship, while at the same time improving their deen. We all look forward to seeing the Rope of Allah go into effect, as we build new friends and

work at pleasing Allah (swt). To top off a beautiful evening was the MSA slideshow, prepared by MSA Public Relations Officer Sami Elzaharna. The slide show had to be the most touching and memorable part of the entire evening, as we celebrated our MSA’s past achievements and prepared for future obstacles. It was a great evening, inshaAllah foreshadowing a great year!

The All Nighter by Naimah Khalifah Adele H. Stamp Student Union held its 24th annual All-Niter this past Friday, September 24th. In commemoration of its 24th year, the Union remained open for 24 hours. The All Niter is an event held every year during the fall. It is, in essence, a welcome back celebration. It is a time in which the University is able to showcase the union and its recent renovations. Most importantly, the event creates a venue where students are able to congregate and engage in a variety of activities. Events such as ping pong tournaments, free movies, caricaturists, stand up comedians, are examples of just some that were held at the All-Niter. Among the many organizations that were a part of the 24th annual All-

terial aligned the walls and tables. Students were given the opportunity to have their names written in Arabic as well as have their hands decorated with intricate henna designs. MSA and MWM members were able to engage in dialogue and give dawah to students who waited patiently for their henna designs and names written in Arabic. Additionally, MSA and MWM were able to interact together, thus strengthening the bonds amongst the brothers and sisters.

Niter, there was none other than the Muslim Student Association and the Muslim of Women of Maryland. The MSA and MWM both gathered in the Prince George’s room where dawah ma-

The involvement of both the MSA and MWM in this year’s All-Niter was yet again successful and enjoyable. The AllNiter was a venue where brothers and sisters were able to participate in showcasing the diversity of the Muslim students and the diversity of the university as whole.

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1 Page 3

MWM Activities America’s Unknown Faith by Neda Hashmi On Monday, September 26th, the Muslim Women of Maryland (MWM), along with the Muslim Student’s Association (MSA) of College Park held an event on campus titled ―America's Unknown Faith: Oppressive, Regressive, or a Declaration of Human Rights.‖ The main speakers at the event were Hadia Mubarak, the first female president of MSA National, and Altaf Husain, also a former MSA National president. The event kicked off with the recitation of the Qur’an by Sami Elzaharna and the English translation was read by Hera Hashmi. Soon afterwards, the adhan was called for Maghrib prayers and people who were not praying were invited to help themselves to dinner (i.e. Sbarro’s pizza) and, to also observe the Muslims praying.

When everyone settled down with their food, a documentary made by Fasiha Khan and Chancey Gannett was shown. Although it was ―not the final copy‖, the documentary covered the topics which many people, both Muslim and nonMuslim, worry about, such as terrorism, racial profiling of Arabs and Muslims and the misrepresentation of Islam in the media. The documentary included interviews from many members of the MSA and MWM as well as other students around the College Park campus. Hadia Mubarak spoke right after the documentary was shown and held the audience’s interest with her intellectual

style of talking and interesting facts from her personal experiences. She talked about the situation of women in Islam and said, ―the number one challenge is the pervasive ignorance about Islam.‖ It is well known that most people use the media as their main source of news or knowledge for current events. It is also well known that these days that the images of war and terror and the images relating to Muslims are often shown together, implying a connection between the two. On a less subtle note, there are so many outspoken people on national television who have inadequate knowledge about Islam or Muslims, yet are quick to point out Islam as the source of the calamities taking place around the globe. For this reason, many non-Muslims believe that Muslim women are oppressed or not given rights. These myths were dispelled by Mubarak, who gave historical and background information which both Muslims and non-Muslims could relate to. We often hear of honor killings happening in the Muslim countries, but Mubarak says that the ―crime of passion‖ actually came from the Napoleonic French. Mubarak tried to differentiate between what Islam says to do and what Muslims end up doing, and attempted to clear up these differences to the audience. ―Islam should be judged by its own sources: the Quran and the Prophetic traditions,‖ she said. To get her

point across, she gave the example of Muslim women in Saudi Arabia who are not allowed to drive, by law. She compares this with the Muslim women in Saudi Arabia in the 7th century, who not only rode horses but whose parents were required to teach their daughters horseback riding. Examples like this gave the audience a clearer understanding of how many things have been misrepresented that are not based on Islamic traditions or the Qur’an. Altaf Husain spoke next, putting the audience at ease with his humor. He started his speech off with a quote by Martin Luther King Jr., ―Injustice everywhere is a threat to justice anywhere,‖ which basically sums up the whole theme of the event. If a person does not speak out against injustices upon other people, then nobody will stand up for them when injustice happens to their own people. He went on to give examples of different minority groups, such as the Catholics, Jews, and Chinese, who were persecuted or had their rights taken away in some way in our very own country. The main points of his lecture were the ―Rights in Life-Social Justice‖ which he broke down into seven categories: life (which is the vital minimum), a peaceful family life, right to housing, education, work, justice, and solidarity or the right to assemble. He informed the audience that in Islam, the teachings are universal, timeless and comprehensive. Husain’s speech was followed by a brief Q&A session in which members of the audience asked insightful questions on topics such as central authority in Islam, the Hereafter, and hijab. About 100 people showed up to the event, which was held in the Colony Ballroom in Stamp Student Union. In all, there seemed to be a sense of accomplishment after the event. This was because a few of the non-Muslim audience members expressed their appreciation of events such as these and seemed to be more enlightened about Islam and Muslims.

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1

Page 4

Revelations of the Heart My Path to Islam: A Story of Conversion by Jessica Hinton I was first exposed to Islam as an eighth grader in middle School. Interested in learning about religions other than my inherited religion—Christianity, I checked out a handful of books at my local library. As a child, I always sought out knowledge. I became convinced at an early age that knowledge was essential to empowerment. To this day, I am a firm believer that the process of seeking knowledge is a personal endeavor. While external forces, such as parents, friends, family members, and society can affect what one knows, what one chooses to believe and accept is an entirely personal process. As a child, I reveled in this idea, fully aware that it could only be through my words that my true thoughts, beliefs, and opinions could be revealed. My Christian parents valued knowledge as well. Nevertheless, they saw it as a part of their duty as parents to ensure that they raised me (along with my two brothers and one sister) with the same inherited values, traditions, and beliefs that had been passed down from generation to generation, and served to define my family’s collective identity. Any child who receives an inherited religion that is a greater part of one’s collective identity rather than one’s personal identity, religion can become something that is only done out of tradition. Religion, as it was conceptualized for most of my life, consisted of traditions and practices, and was intertwined within my notions of myself as a member of the collective identity of my family, and community at large. Faith in God and Spirituality were something different, they were intangible, and they were personal. I feared God, and this fear informed the decisions that I made in my life. I returned to Islam years later as a senior in college. My return to Islam was brought about by new circumstances in my life. I was in a long distanced relationship and had been for a year. This relationship was, in large part monitored by both our parents and was created for the purposes of marriage. As a twenty-one year old young

woman, I watched many around me enter into relationships, and I assumed that being in a relationship, (at least as it is presented in American culture), was the pre-requisite for marriage. Being in a relationship, as I had learned from television shows, Disney movies, and many people in my life, was the ―beautiful‖ journey that allowed a man and woman to ―get to know one another‖. While I had never interacted with non-mahram men on a personal level, I assumed that being in a relationship would not be a ―big deal.‖ It was not the actual dynamics of the relationship that made it difficult, we rarely saw each other in person, and when we did, our interaction was mostly held in the company of our parents, and other friends. What I did not feel comfortable with was the manner in which we were made to interact with one another ―to get to know each other.‖ I did not like the idea that I was someone’s ―girlfriend‖, nor did I appreciate the expectations and notions of normalcy that others around me attached to the interaction. I wanted to get married, but as my Bible and pastor seemed to suggest, I was not sinning by being in a relationship. However, I still managed to feel that I was doing something wrong. As a Christian faced with the reality of being in a relationship, my system of faith that had defined my life went into overload. With Bible in hand, I turned to my religion. I attended Church and Sunday school, read the Bible, and talked with various elders in my Church. I desperately wanted to know the foundation of my Faith. For so long, my beliefs were internalized within me, never deconstructed for meaning because I was never put in situations where they had to be. Because I never had any ―real‖ problems or issues in my life I was able to maintain my beliefs and never question them for their worth in my life. I had these beliefs, but because I could

not place them within my religion, or any religion that I knew of, I went through a type of spiritual crisis. I searched for answers in all the people within my life, my family, friends, co-workers, even strangers. To say that I was desperate would be an understatement; I wanted to know if the feelings that I had which made me uncomfortable with the notion of the relationship were validated. My friends and co-workers had me convinced that perhaps I had been repressed, whatever that meant. I was labeled ―Old -Fashioned‖, ―immature‖, and ―unrealistic‖, and perhaps in need of psychiatric help! My boyfriend was raised as a Muslim, and came from a great Muslim family. He did not practice his beliefs and did not know much about his religion, so it was difficult for him to provide me with any assistance in finding solutions within Islam. What I found within the religion, through reading the Quran and searching online for answers, was what I had been missing. I was comforted by Islam and revitalized as a servant of Allah, it was not my own mental recollection that directed my steps to Islam, rather it was Allah who lighted the way for me. After a month of learning about the religion in secrecy from my friends, family, and boyfriend, I decided that I wanted to change my religion. The first person I told was my boyfriend, he was shocked that I was learning about Islam without his knowledge, ashamed that he was not actively practicing his Faith, and happy that I was happy, all at once. I told him that I planned to convert and that I could not handle being in a ―relationship‖ any longer. Initially he could not understand why I did not want to be in a ―relationship‖ which he viewed as being the pre-requisite for marriage. I told him of the beliefs within Islam regarding the matter and he understood. I converted to the religion a little over a month ago. What I have found (Continued on page 8)

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1 Page 5

Building the Ummah

“Rope of Allah”

by Maria Khalid and Sherihan Youssef “The Prophet, therefore, called upon his followers to establish a special bond of brotherhood…It meant much more than a spiritual bond. It translated itself in reality into something mush stronger than any tribal or family relationship.” What is the most essential quality for Muslims to have if we want to create a stronger Ummah? Allah (swt) guides us very clearly in the Qur’an: ―Hold fast to the rope of Allah as a collective whole, and do not be divided‖ Get it?? Do NOT be divided! Having love and respect for one’s fellow brother/sister in Islam is a very important component in building unity. Unity, in turn, is an essential component for us to have if we want to accomplish our goals as an Ummah and as individual Muslims. A sacred bond of brotherhood

and sisterhood is not only formed for the sake of loving each other, but it is formed for the sake of loving each other for the sake of something much greater: Allah. It is only when one loves Allah so much, that he will strive to form bonds of friendship that will allow him to hold on to the rope of Allah strongly. No matter how strong one might think he is, having another hand will only make him stronger. So I guess what I’m trying to say is, it’s okay to mix curry and mahshi! After all, we have much to gain and nothing to lose if we focus on strengthening our ties with one another. For example, don’t you want to learn how to eat a desi meal without having to chug down two gallons of water? And don’t you want to learn how to do that much renowned and popular debka dance? More importantly, don’t you want to build lasting bonds of brotherhood and

“Where are all the Muslims?” by Nadia El-Hillal ―Where are all the Muslims?‖ This was the first question I continued asking myself as I walked around campus during my first week here at the University of Maryland. My name is Nadia El-Hillal and I am a new freshman from Pittsburgh, PA. Many people continue to ask me, ―What brought you to UMD?‖ and my reason is always the same: the MSA. Throughout my college search, an important characteristic I was looking for was that the university’s MSA be large and active. While the MSA at Pitt is still growing, I came to Maryland hoping to meet new Muslims and join a strong, well-established group. So as I walked around campus that first week of classes, I was befuddled when I didn’t immediately see the

sisterhood as prescribed by Allah (swt) and His Prophet (pbuh)? Well this might be your lucky semester! The MSA would like to invite you to participate in the first ever ―Rope of Allah‖ buddy program! In this program, we will be pairing people up (of the same gender) and giving them the task of spending time with one another and getting to know one another very closely. This relationship will not comprise of just a lunch together once a week, but rather, each person will have the chance to participate in the regular Islamic activities of the other person. For example, flyering together, dawah table together, etc. These pairings will last for one whole month and at the end of the month, we will rearrange ourselves so that everyone will have a new partner and the process will start again. But if all this isn’t giving you enough incentive to participate, maybe this will help:

Top Ten Reasons Why You Need a Buddy active MSA I had heard so much about. However, luckily for me, one day as I was approaching the Stamp Student Union, I saw it: The Dawah table! Almost immediately, it was as if all the Muslims on campus suddenly emerged from wherever they had been hiding. I began meeting new friends in classes, around campus, and of course at MSA functions. The Welcome Back dinner was a great way to be introduced to the group and MSA meetings have also been good experiences, which I only expect will get better. After a month here, Alhamdillah, I no longer have to wonder ―where are all the Muslims?‖ Everyone has been so welcoming and I genuinely look forward to participating and being part of one of the strongest organizations on campus.

by Dina Raafat 1. Someone to remind you that pork is Haram! 2. Someone to explain to people in the bathroom why you have your foot in the sink. 3. Although your imaginary friend is reliable, it gets frustrating when he/she interrupts you in mid-conversation with others.... 4. Team sports are better when there are more people. 5. Someone who will finally answer the question "Do I look fat today?" And they're Muslim, so they won't lie. 6. Pizza Roma's offers a buddy discount. Well, they don't....but if they did, it would be a GREAT reason. (Continued on page 8)

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1

Page 6

The Night of Power

Lailatul-Qadr

by Waqas Mannan This is one of the holiest and most blessed nights, which is very likely to occur on one of the odd-numbered nights of the last ten days of Ramadan (most likely the 27th). The reward of worship on this night is greater than the worship of one thousand months, equivalent to a person's lifetime. So on this night one should perform nafl prayers, recite the Holy Qur'an, do Dhikr, and make Dua’as as much as possible. In a Hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah (ra), the Prophet (saws) said: ―Whoever fasted the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith (i.e. belief) and hoping for reward from Allah, then all his past sins will be forgiven, and whoever stood for prayers in the night of Qadr out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven." In this night the Noble Qur'an was sent down, which for the one who clings to it, is a guide to the path of honor and nobility.

The Excellence of this Night As regards its excellence it is more than sufficient to mention that Lailatul-Qadr is better than a thousand months, He, the Mighty and Majestic, says: " Verily! We have sent it (this Qur’an) down in the Night of Decree (Lailatul-Qadr). And what will make you know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. Therein descend the angels and the Rooh (i.e. Gabriel) by Allah’s Permission with all Decrees, Peace! Until the appearance of dawn." (Al-Qadr 97: 1-5)

When it is

night." And Allah knows best. (Reported from him by al-Baghawee in SharhusSunnah) The most correct saying is that it occurs in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan and this is shown by the hadith of 'Aisha, RA, who said: "Allah’s Messenger (saws) used to practice I'tikaaf in the last ten nights and say: 'Seek out Lailatul-Qadr in the (odd nights) of the last ten days of Ramadan." (Bukhari, Muslim)

How should a Muslim seek Lailatul-Qadr? One who misses this blessed night has missed much good, for no one misses it except one from whom it is withheld. Therefore, it is recommended that the Muslim who is eager to be obedient to Allah should stand in Prayer during this night out of Iman and hoping for the great reward, for if he does this, Allah will forgive his previous sins. Prophet Muhammad (saws) said: "Whoever stands in (Prayer) in LailatulQadr out of Iman and seeking reward, then his previous sins are forgiven." (Bukhari) It is recommended to supplicate a great deal during this night. It is reported from 'Aisha (ra), that she said: "O Messenger of Allah! What if I knew which night Lailatul-Qadr was, then what should I say in it?" He 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.) (at-Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah) From 'Aisha (ra): "Allah’s Messenger (saws) used to exert himself in the last ten nights more than he would at other times." (Muslim)

It is reported from the Prophet (saws) that Lailatul-Qadr is amongst the twenty-first, twenty-third, twenty-fifth, twenty-seventh, twenty-ninth or the last night of Ramadan. Imam ash-Shaafi'e, rahimahullah, said: To me it is as the Its signs Prophet (saws) used to answer according to ―Many people believe in all the question posed. It would be said to him: sorts of superstitions about Lailatul"Shall I seek it in such and such night?" So Qadr, and false beliefs from them are he would reply: "Seek it in such and such

that the trees prostrate, and buildings sleep! And these things are clearly futile and baseless.‖ Allah’s Messenger (saws) described the morning after Lailatul-Qadr, so that the Muslim may know which day it is. From Ubayy (ra), who said: that he (saws) said: "On the morning following Lailatul-Qadr the sun rises not having any rays, as if it were a brass dish, until it rises up." (Muslim, Abu Dawood, atTarmidhi, Ibn Majah) From Abu Hurairah (ra), who said: "We were discussing Lailatul-Qadr in the presence of Allah’s Messenger (saws), so he said: 'Which of you remembers (the night) when the moon aro se and wa s li ke hal f a plate?'" (Muslim) [Qaadi 'Iyaad said: "It contains an indication that it was towards the end of the month - since the moon does not appear like that when it arises except towards the end of the month."] From Ibn 'Abbaas (ra), who said: Allah's Messenger (saws) said: "LailatulQadr is calm and pleasant, neither hot nor cold, the sun arises on its morning being feeble and red." (at-Tayaalisee, Ibn Khuzaimah, al-Bazzaar with hasan isnaad) Let us seek abundant rewards from our Creator by performing extra actions in these last few days of the noble month of Ramadan, as they could be our last. Sources Referenced: http://www.jannah.org http://www.lutonmuslims.co.uk/Qadr.htm http://www.manchestermosque.org/

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1 Page 7

A Path To A Better Life Time is More than Just Money by Mohamed Abutaleb ―Time is money.‖ I’ve always marveled at that statement. It is much deeper than most people know. Does anyone know who came up with that originally, perchance? I’ve always wanted to find out. I have tried to track the original source, but have not been successful. Whoever did say that originally had an interesting idea, but was also missing a crucial insight that I’ve always wanted to bring to his/her attention. You see, to reduce the value of time to mere monetary worth is a gross understatement of its importance. Time is the capital of life, the only resource that humanity is given to invest into their standing in this life, and more importantly, in the Hererafter. Whoever wastes his time is wasting his life, and more – he is also wasting a potential gain that could have been realized if he had used his time more wisely. In this regard, Al-Hasan Al-Basri said: ―O Son of Adam, you are but days, such that with each day that passes, part of you departs with it.‖ There are many verses in the Holy Qur’an and countless examples from the lives of the Prophet (saw), his companions, and their successors in piety, of the importance attached to time and the efficiency with which they used it. Perhaps it suffices us that the Holy Qur’an recounts the denizens of Hellfire as requesting of their Lord, ―If only I could return, that I might be among those who do good!‖ (Surat Az-Zumar, with similar wording elsewhere). Or that, as humanity realizes that all but the investment of their time is worthless to them, the wretched cry out, ―My money has not availed me, my power has gone away from me!‖ (Surat Al-Qalam). The interested reader is directed to The Value of Time by Sheikh Abdul-Fattah Abu Ghuddah, among many other excellent Islamic books for further proofs and examples of the importance of time.

The university setting is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate either that you can master the management of time and that you carry skills that you will develop through the rest of your life, or to emphatically demonstrate that you are among the ever-procrastinating that will carry poor habits with them for the remainder of their lives. The shelter of school life gives us flexibility to make mistakes, since our errors do not yet impact the structural integrity of the next bridge or the functionality of the next business. Here are some practical tips to help you get more control of your time, either when studying, at work, or just having fun:

problems while playing a game of bowling. This is not an endorsement of the bowling alley as a study hall; but it is an example that one can focus in even the most distracting of environments, if he sets his mind to it. Don’t be interrupt-driven, rather drive your interruptions.

ENVIRONMENT Does that seem contradictory to the last point? It’s not. You need to find the very best environment for you to work in, and then focus after placing yourself in that environment. Some people like total quiet; others prefer a small amount of background sound. It’s different for each person, so you have to find what works for you. If you’re a quiet person, there’s no better place than the library. I find it easy to start thinking about a million things (i.e. talking to myself) in total quiet; so I either play Qur’an or nasheed in the background, or seek an area like the study lounges in the Stamp Student Union or group study floors in the library. Listening to the Holy Qur’an while studying is an excellent way to improve your memorization – and we checked with Dr. Salah Soltan, a prominent Muslim scholar, regarding its permissibility when he visited the university.

LAY OFF THE FELLOWS THAT LIVE IN YOUR SYSTEM TRAY

FOCUS When you set out to do something, stay focused on accomplishing your task. You don’t need to wait until senior year (or later) to figure out that the homework you take three hours to complete really only needs 30 minutes. That is if you avoid phone calls, chatting with friends, taking extended walks around the library, or wasting time in a million other creative ways. Once, I was speaking to a brother on this topic and I made my point in a rather extreme way. I actually took my optics homework to the bowling alley, and proceeded to complete a difficult set of

For some of you that’s a little yellow walking man (AOL Instant Messenger), others have a blue 3D family of them (MSN Messenger), and then I’m sure there’s others that I don’t know about. This is among the biggest wasters of time for youth around the world. I once read a very convincing research article in which the author sought to prove that there was nothing that can be done through instant messaging that can not be done more efficiently via another means, like a phone call or e-mail. I almost entirely agree with him – the only exceptions that I’ve (Continued on page 8)

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1

Page 8

A Path To A Better Life

Time is More Than Just Money (cont.)

And please, write things down. Calendars, and make full use of them. planners, Palms and Pocket PCs, Microsoft REVIEW, AND THERE IS NO encountered are transferring files too large Outlook … you have so many choices on IMPROVEMENT EXCEPT BY ALLAH’S for e-mails, and speaking to others when what you prefer using. LEAVE it’s too late to make a phone call; it’s also ASK FOR HELP No one is perfect, so expect to make great for speaking to friends overseas That difficult homework assignment mistakes; but through review and analysis, inexpensively. If you want to catch up you can improve on those mistakes and do with your friends through instant that took you 12 hours would have taken better the next time. And most of all, do messaging, set aside a specific time to do only 2 if you went to the tutoring office, or asked a friend for help. Did you know that not forget the power of supplication it rather than leaving it open-ended. ―There is no change or there is a free Writing Center on campus to (dua’a). SET GOALS, PRIORITIZE, SET empowerment except by the will of help improve essays for all undergraduate DEADLINES, AND USE CALENDARS Allah‖ – and you will find insha’Allah, classes on campus? Did you know that most that with purity of intention, sincere Those who leave matters open- departments have free tutoring offices, or ended achieve mediocrity or failure; those bulletin boards where paid tutors post effort, and hard work, Allah will make who set goals and establish a mission in information? Did you know that there is a things easier than you expect. Recognize their lives achieve it or come close trying. Career Center to help with your job search, and acknowledge the immense value of That goes in everything in your life from as well as more specialized departmental time, and ask Allah to give you the (Continued from page 7)

“Recognize and acknowledge the immense value of time, and ask Allah to give you the strength to harness it.” finishing tomorrow’s homework, to applying for jobs, to selecting a spouse. After choosing your goals and identifying your tasks, prioritize in order to set deadlines and figure out what must be done, and what it would be nice to do.

advisors? Or that the MSA has a specialist, at least at the undergraduate level and often at the graduate or professional level, in almost every field on campus? Wherever you are and whatever you may be doing, find the resources that are available to you

Path To Islam (cont.)

strength of mind, body, and soul to harness it. Interested in more time management tips? There are many articles available at http:// www.powerhomebiz.com/leadership/time.htm and a number of other online resources.

Rope of Allah (cont.)

(Continued from page 4)

within Islam has saved my life. I am thankful for the confusion and desperation that described my life as a ―girlfriend‖ because it makes my happiness and gratefulness now, even sweeter. As a Muslim, living in a Christian household that does not seem receptive to change, there have been challenges. For my parents and siblings, Islam has become a ―Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell‖ policy, they see the evidence around them, yet they choose not to reify my new reality. After an argument about Islam that ended with me dramatically

running off and crying in my room, it became clear that I would have to wait a little while before I formally could inform my family about my conversion. I am still the same person, I hold the same beliefs, the only difference now is that I am strong in my beliefs and can place where my beliefs come from. When I say that my eyes were ―opened by Islam‖ I simply mean that before, my vision was impaired by my problems, my insecurities, my doubts, and all the other things revolving around me. Today I see myself and value myself for my worth as a servant to Allah. I judge myself based upon my commitment to Allah.

(Continued from page 5)

7. At least one person will smile now when you walk into a room. 8. When you say the word date, they know you're referring to a dried fruit. 9. Someone you can share your scary jinn stories with and they won't look at you like you’re a total freak, but instead nod their head in understanding. 10. You can joke with your non Muslim friends by clucking your tongue and telling them it is the secret Islamic language.

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1 Page 9

Creative Writing Don’t Backbite Yo! Anonymous SQUIRREL: Yo homie! Did you see the But Alas, Squirrel had not learned his lesson Flamingo and the Eagle whispering over and within just a couple of days he was back at the pond the other day? I don’t know to spreading rumors all around the what they were saying, but all I can say community. is… telling from the way Flamingo’s cheeks were getting all pink, it must have Two weeks later… been something shady. ORANGUTAN: Eagle, DUDE!! I heard FOX: Dude! Are you serious? something’s going on between you SQUIRREL: Man, there was definitely Flamingo! Man, you got the skills!!!! some un-Islamic etiquette going down and EAGLE: Dawg, you trippin’. all I know is Eagle is no longer the same ORANGUTAN: Oh no I ain’t, everybody’s man he used to be in my eyes. sayin’ it’s true! Something’s definitely goin’ FOX: Fo shizzle man, he needs to watch it. on between you and Flamingo! RABBIT: Well, are you going to go talk to EAGLE: What!! Aghstafurallah! You know I him about it or something would never do such a thing! I never even

SQUIRREL: Ehhhh… I dunno what you talkin’ about man… EAGLE: Don’t lie to me man! I thought we were brothers! And now, you’ve completely betrayed me! Eagle gives Squirrel a shove. SQUIRREL: Whoa man, whooaa! Its cool, its all cool… EAGLE: Oh no it ain’t man, you do not want to mess with this right here! SQUIRREL: Oh yea, what are you gonna do about it?! Son, you need to just back off right now before you make me real angry. PSH! Fool!

Squirrel goes to turn around and leave talk to her. Well, except for a couple of (mumbling to himself). And in just one weeks ago when we were having a debate instant Eagle swoops down, catches about possible solutions to global Squirrel in his mouth and swallows him warming… You know what, now t h a t I whole. think of it, I don’t think anybody even Turtle overhears conversation saw us have that conversation by the pond Two months later… and walks in… that day except Squirrel. He was a f e w TURTLE: What is this I hear?! Is this yards away nibbling nuts or something. I SEAL: Hey man, I really need you to talk to this sister about the MSA fundraiser. gossip? One Muslim brother talking about bet HE spread these rumors didn’t he?! another brother behind his back, we WOODPECKER: Oh man, I dunno… Ever would have never put up with such ORANGUTAN: Whoa man, calm down, I since those rumors were spreading around conversation in my day. Do y o u don’t know anything. I heard it from about Eagle, I’m kinda nervous about have no fear of Allah? Do you completely Hedgehog, who heard it from Snake, who talking to the sisters. I’m afraid if people lack love, trust, or respect for your heard it from Beetle, who heard it from see us talking, they’ll judge or even if I Hyena, who heard it from Owl, who heard it Muslim brothers and sisters? say Salaam to a sister she might think I’m from… trying to holla, and clearly you know that RABBIT: Turtle’s right man, this isn’t E AGLE: Oh man this is insane! Squirrel will ain’t the deal man… right. If you really don’t like what Eagle is doing, or if you think he’s doing be made to pay for this… SEAL: Oh man, this isn’t right. These are SQUIRREL: PSSHH! HEEEEEEEEECK NO! What you think I want to stir up some conflict between us?? You must be straight trippin’ fool.

something wrong, talk to him about it, not us. Backbiting is haram, Allah says in the Qur’an: ―Believers, abstain from most suspicion, some suspicion is a sin. Neither spy nor backbite one another would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? Surely, you would loathe it. Fear Allah, without doubt Allah turns (in mercy) and He is the Merciful.‖ (49:12)

The next morning, as Eagle was on his our sisters in Islam and we need to have a morning flight, he spotted Squirrel gathering deep sense of respect for one another. Nobody should ever feel like they are nuts down below. being judged. Whatever happened to EAGLE: This is my chance. making up 70 excuses for your brother or Eagle swoops down and lands right in front sister? Even if people were doing of Squirrel. Squirrel jumps back in intense something haram, it’s nobody’s business fright. and nobody needs to talk about it. And SQUIRREL: Whoa man, I just did my wudu’! dude, it’s your responsibility to say You just scared me so bad… I think I might Salaam when you see another Muslim. You should say it for the sake of Allah SQUIRREL: I guess you’re right, I should have to do it again… have a stronger fear of Allah and pray that EAGLE: Have you been spreading rumors (swt) and not care what the other person He guides me and helps me to control my about me? (Continued on page 10) tongue.

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1

Page 10

Creative Writing Backbite (cont.) (Continued from page 9)

might assume. WOODPECKER: True man, true. But ya know, I just don’t like what’s happened to this community. I feel like I can’t trust people no more and I mean how are we ever going to build a strong Ummah if we can’t even unite and be accepting of our fellow brothers and sisters? SEAL: Yea man, I don’t know what this world’s coming to…

Moral of the Story Surah 49, Ayah 10-11:“The believers are but a single Brotherhood: so make peace and reconciliation between your two (contending) brothers; and fear Allah, that ye may receive Mercy. O ye who believe! Let not some men among you laugh at others: it may be that the (latter) are better than

the (former): nor defame nor be sarcastic to each other, nor call each other by (offensive) nicknames: ill-seeming is a name connoting wickedness, (to be used of one) after he has believed; and those who do not desist are (indeed) doing wrong.”

Welcome Back (cont.) (Continued from page 1)

Students’ Association, or the MSA. But you may be wondering what MSA has to do with your success as an individual in college and in life. Simply stated, the MSA is about creating and developing the individuals who choose to make the great decisions outlined above. Don’t mistake it for a simple catch line or attractive statement –the MSA is truly one of the only organizations you will find that is more concerned with the wellbeing of its members and their personal growth than with the events, acquisitions, and property it handles. The skeptic need look no further than the mission statement to find the organization’s commitment to its members: ―To build a community of leaders who strive to perpetuate good and forbid wrongdoing, call to the path of Islam, and excel as students, professionals, and friends.‖ When the dust clears and the other organizations can display their events, accomplishments, and material acquisitions, our most prized possession continues to be the exceptional brothers and sisters we are blessed with who give so much for the benefit of others. Today, our invitation to you is to come and be a part of this most challenging mission and noble cause that Allah has blessed us to pursue. Our references are in

the Qur’an and Sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh) and our examples are in our pious predecessors. We have initiatives which draw upon every imaginable skill, talent, and ability you may have – and we are always eager to hear of new, innovative ideas to serve Allah and our society in new ways. We are also greatly blessed by Allah to work together with the Muslim Women of Maryland in a number of our projects and events. Whether your aspiration is to catalog books in one of the first Islamic libraries in North America, or to conduct innovative outreach projects to local campuses, hospitals, malls, and schools, or if you would like to help conduct competition events for local high schools, or to make da’wah with one of the largest MSA’s in the country, the MSA and MWM here at the University of Maryland have something to offer to you. The Prophet (pbuh) was reported to have said: ―The youth believed in me, and the older people called me a liar.‖ Most of the Companions of the Prophet (pbuh) were in their twenties – our age – when the revelations descended upon him, and the

oldest was Abu Bakr, who was 38 years old. Following in their footsteps, our predecessors in this MSA accomplished great feats in the past that made this organization a natio nally and internatio nally renowned one – and by the mercy of Allah, communities from Maryland to California to Egypt are benefiting from the presence of MSA graduates. Now, they have left the torch behind for us to carry in their wake – and the question remains, will you have the strength, courage, and determination to pick it up? Let’s get this show on the road. Final Note: Really though, Mohamed agreed to have me use and modify his article. I guess the real question is: did he really have a choice?

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1 Page 11

Creative Writing “Ode to My Sisters” - A Message From The MWM President by Fasiha Khan I sat for over an hour,

like a rehab program..)

A pretty silly poem,

Trying to figure out what to say,

Exam study sessions?

But I hope you can see

And decided I’d settle it

We share notes & teach.

Beyond the glib phrases,

The old fashioned way.

Panda craving?

My love and sincerity.

Someone’s got South Beach. Hail exalted ladies,

To all my sisters on campus,

Far and wide (I’m not calling anyone fat).

We’re here to help,

May we strive together to increase our deen,

Take a few minutes

We’re here to tease,

And gather in the Shade of Allah,

As I welcome you to the dark side (just kidding).

Even as we lend you some cash,

With sincerity and patience for what has and been.

The sisterhood on campus Other relationships can’t compare, We strive to serve you faithfully, You can always count on us to be there. We offer support to all our sisters, In whatever way we can, Be it through friendships, lectures and balls, Join the support group caravan! (sounds

ZabarDasti’s Comics By Humza Dasti

For your parking ticket fees. We’re not here to judge, We’re not here to pry, You can always count on us When you need a shoulder on which to cry. Stronger than blood, We share your hardships & laughter

So here’s an ode to you, All the ladies of CP, May you always find your home with us sisters, Wherever you may be. Disclaimer: The author

To help you find friendships for life,

does not endorse or advo-

And Paradise in the Hereafter.

cate the South Beach diet.

An-Nur

Volume 8, Issue 1

Page 12

THE MUSLIM STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Crossword Puzzle

University of Maryland at College Park Box 44, Stamp Student Union College Park, MD 20742 Email: umcp_msa@yahoo.com

Ramadan Kareem!

WWW.MSA-UMD.ORG

by Sherihan Youssef

WWW.MWM-UMD.ORG

MSA Chaplain: Ali Darwish

MSA Officers President: Hosam Haggag Vice-President: Ibrahim Elmoghazy VP Sisters’ Affairs: Faten Gharib Masjid Affairs:Hamzah Abu-Ragheb Pub. Relations: Sami Elzaharna Secretary: Rafia Ali Treasurer: Raafat Raafat

MWM Officers President: Fasiha Khan Vice-President: Chancey Gannett Secretary: Maria Khalid Treasurer: Rama Taib Pub. Relations: Rafia Ali SGA Liaison: Saba Askari

Newsletter Staff Layout Editing: Sabba Zahir Editing of Articles: Maria Khalid News/Reporting: Aamira Ali

Across 2.

Night in which all sins are forgiven; one dash

Must have for Iftar

Strengthening your relationship with -

10.

Ramadan, The month of the -

11.

Form of worship; last 10 days of Ramadan

13.

Campus location - Serves Iftar everyday!

14.

Chained down during Ramadan

Staff Writers: Mohamed Abutaleb Rafia Ali Down Humza Dasti Nadia El-Hillal 1. Dried fruit; sunnah to eat for Suhur Hosam Haggag 3. After Isha Prayer until Fajr Neda Hashmi Jessica Hinton 5. Nourished during Ramadan Maria Khalid 6. Doors of - are opened during RamaNaimah Khalifah dan Fasiha Khan Waqas Mannan 7. Go Fast-a- ____ ! Dina Raafat 9. "Ramadan -- " Sherihan Youssef

12.

Pray Isha then, __