ICLI News Oct. 2004

I.C.L.I. News

CONTACT US

Islamic Center of Long Island

835 Brush Hollow Road Westbury, NY 11590

Tel: 516-333-3495 Fax: 516-333-7321 Email: icli.icli@verizon.net

Inside this issue:

ICLI News:

President’s Message

Domestic Harmony Committee

Islamic Heritage: Prophet Muhammad’s Sermon

Ramadhaan: Name & Derivation

Importance of Fasting Powerful Night of Ramadhaan Zakaat ul Fitr

Eid Ul Fitr

Educational Section: Message from Sunday School Girl Scouts

Community Round-up: Mulsim Day Parade

ICLI Services

Ramadhaan Timetable

Ramadhaan Mubaarak

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Al-Islaam, Assalamu‘Alaykum wa Rahmat Allah: Ramadhaan Mubaarak!

Qur’an 2:183

O ye who believe!

Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, That ye may (learn) self-restraint –Insha‘Allah, on Saturday, October 16, 2004, the Muslim community in Long Island, NY will begin the month-long fast of Ramadhaan. ( Note: Because the beginning of Islamic lunar months depends on the actual sighting of the new moon, the start and end dates for Ramadhaan may vary).

The fast is performed to learn discipline, self-restraint and generosity, while obeying God's commandments. The end of Ramadhaan will be marked by communal prayers called "Eid ul-Fitr," or Feast of the FastBreaking, on Sunday, November 14, 2004, Insha’Allah.

At ICLI, we have made arrangements to collect and distribute Zakaat-ul-Fitr before the end of Ramadhaan. A committee has been formed to collect and distribute Zakaat-ul-Maal (alms calculated annually and given to the needy). According to several Ahadith of the Prophet (pbuh), all good deeds performed in the month of Ramadhaan are rewarded 70 times greater as compared to any other month. Hence, we urge everyone to mail in their share of Zakaat-ul-Maal during the month of Ramadhaan.

A timetable for Ramadhaan with pertinent information and an envelope for your donations have been enclosed in the packs, for your convenience. Due to rising adminis-

trative costs, we hope you will be able to include an additional donation to ICLI.

These can be picked up from the center.

At ICLI, we are aware of the needs of local Muslim brothers and sisters who deserve and need our support. We ask you to be generous and give at least a part, if not all of your Zakaat-ul-Maal and or Zakaat-ul-Fitr donations through ICLI. As the saying goes, “Charity begins at home”. Kindly make your checks payable to the “Islamic Center of Long Island or, in short, “ICLI”.

A special note to our brothers and sisters who will be visiting the Center for Taraaweeh prayers and Saturday Iftar: Please be considerate when parking your vehicles. The number of parking spaces available at ICLI is limited. Park only in designated areas.

A Publication of The Islamic Center of Long Island, Westbury.

In the Name of Allah, The Beneficent, The Merciful

When the parking lot is filled, there is ample street parking outside the masjid, which can be utilized.

As a courtesy to our neighbors and in observance of parking regulations, we kindly request that you please do not block any cars, driveways or water hydrants. Respect the property of others, do not litter and do not speak loudly with your friends at Fajr time and when going home after Taraaweeh prayers so as not to disturb our neighbors in the early morning or late hours of the night. Your cooperation and support in these matters, is sincerely appreciated.

ICLI at ISNA

In this message, I also want to share with you a very brief synopsis of the presentations made by members of ICLI at the 41st Annual Convention of the Islamic Society of North America, held in Chicago over the Labor Day weekend. All nine of these presentations involved initiatives and programs developed at ICLI and, Alhamdu-Lillah, the presentations were very well received. My personal thanks to Srs. Rafia Hamid, Reema Siddiqui and Homaira Mamoor and then Brs. Habeeb Ahmed and Hamza Byas for the hard work they did in preparing excellent presentations.

Habeeb Ahmed (two presentations)

Allah’s

Garden

Br. Habeeb gave a summary of how the ICLI garden evolved with the efforts of volunteers, and how this has helped in improving ICLI’s ambiance and relationship with its neighbors.

Making Eid Stamp Stick

Br. Habeeb described how, through his personal initiative, the commemorative Eid stamp and how thousands of them were purchased and then sold, at cost, ensuring that the printing of this important Muslim symbol continues in the USA.

Hamza Byas

Importance of Speaking in a Common Language

Br. Hamza described his personal experience, as an adult reverting to Islam, brought up in the USA with English as his native tongue, and how interacting with the multilingual, multicultural ICLI family has reinforced in him the importance of communicating in a language understood by all – in this case, English.

Sr. Rafia Hamid

Sr. Rafia presented an analysis of her research with adolescent Muslim girls at ICLI and the challenges they face. Sr. Rafia presented some recommendations as to how some of these pressures and challenges our

younger generation is facing can be overcome.

Sr. Homaira Mamoor

Sr. Homaira outlined, in some detail, her personal experience and views regarding fundraising. She proposed “silent auctions” as a very practical, enjoyable method of raising the much-needed funds for various activities.

Sr. Reema Siddiqui

Sr. Reema gave an overview of the first year’s experience and benefits from the TV show Our Muslim Neighbors, and how this show has helped improve the image of Muslims.

I presented the lessons we learnt at ICLI post-9/11 and in another presentation described our very active interfaith initiative’s.

Neighbors Westbury Schools Environment Civic Association

Television Our Muslim Neighbor

Faith Based Multi Faith Forum, AMJID

National Muslim Groups AMA, AMPAC, CAIR, ISNA, MAS

Council of LI Masjids, etc.

Media Print Westbury Times Newsday New York Times

Countywide Nassau Partnership for Healthy Communities Health Welfare Council SUNY at Old Westbury

Finally, we had been invited to participate in a panel discussion, as a model of one of the three “vibrant” centers from across the USA. I presented ICLI’s vision, mission and how ICLI has developed into a vibrant community, interconnected, working with various groups, agencies with a goal of improving the quality of life for all on Long Island. Reproduced below is a summary outline of some current ICLI initiatives. Jazaakum Allah Khairan

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

What you can do to help

Friends or family members who are being abused:

call police if you see/hear abuse

explain that FREE and CONFIDENTIAL help is available for victims and their children at local domestic violence programs

offer a ride to a local shelter, a place to make a phone call or to baby-sit while they attend appointments

Friends or family members who are abusers:

call police if you see/hear abuse

tell them there are no excuses for abuse and they may lose their families, friends, homes and jobs if it doesn’t stop

hold them accountable for their behavior

support their efforts to locate and obtain appropriate batterer intervention treatment

Your local domestic violence program:

volunteer your time

make monetary donations or donate phone cards, gift certificates, bus tickets, etc.

sponsor a family for a holiday meal, holiday gifts, etc.

contact program staff to learn more about the many ways you can help

If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1 800 799 SAFE (7233) or the Domestic Harmony Committee hotline at 516 942 2081

Islamic Heritage

The Sermon Given By Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) On The Last Friday Of Sha'ban On The Reception Of The Month of Ramadhan

O People!

Indeed ahead of you is the blessed month of Allah. A month of blessing, mercy and forgiveness. A month which with Allah is the best of months. Its days, the best of days, its nights, the best of nights, and its hours, the best of hours. It is the month which invites you to be the guests of Allah and invites you to be one of those near to Him. Each breath you take glorifies Him; your sleep is worship, your deeds are accepted and your supplications are answered. So, ask Allah, your Lord; to give you a sound body and an enlightened heart so you may be able to fast and recite His book, for only He is unhappy who is devoid of Allah's forgiveness during this great month. Remember the hunger and thirst of the day of Judgment with your hunger and thirst; give alms to the needy and poor, honor your old, show kindness to the young ones, maintain relations with your blood relations; guard your tongues, close your eyes to that which is not permissible for your sight, close your ears to that which is forbidden to hear, show compassion to the orphans of people so compassion may be shown to your orphans. Repent to Allah for your sins and raise your hands in Du’a during these times, for they are the best of times and Allah looks towards His creatures with kindness, replying to them during the hours and granting their needs if He is asked...

O People!

Indeed your souls are dependant on your deeds, free it with repentance lighten its loads by long prostrations; and know that Allah swears by His might: That there is no punishment for the one who prays and prostrates and he shall have no fear of the fire on the day when man stands before The Lord of the worlds.

O People!

One who gives Iftaar to a fasting person during this month will be like one who has freed someone and his past sins will be forgiven.

Some of the people who were there then asked the Prophet (PBUH): "Not all of us are able to invite those who are fasting?" The Prophet (PBUH) replied: "Allah gives this reward even if the Iftaar (meal) is a drink of water."

One who has good morals during this month will be able to pass the ‘Siraat’...on the day that feet will slip... One who covers the faults of others will benefit in that Allah will curb His anger on the day of Judgment...

As for one who honors an orphan; Allah will honor him on the day of judgment, And for the one who spreads his kindness, Allah will spread His mercy over him on the day of Judgment.

As for the one who cuts the ties of relation; Allah will cut His mercy from him... Who so ever performs a recommended prayer in this month

Allah will keep the fire of Hell away from him... Whoever performs an obligatory prayer Allah will reward him with seventy prayers [worth] in this month.

And who so ever prays a lot during this month will have his load lightened on the day of measure. He who recites one verse of the holy Quran will be given the rewards of reciting the whole Qur’an during other months.

O People!

Indeed during this month the doors of heaven are open, therefore ask Allah not to close them for you; The doors of hell are closed, so ask Allah to keep them closed for you.

During this month Satan is imprisoned so ask your Lord not to let him have power over you.

Holy Month of Ramadhan

Name and Derivation

By Dr. Safdar Chadda

Allah Almighty has said, "Surely the number of months with Allah is twelve in Allah's ordinance since the day He created the heavens and the earth, of these four are sacred; that is the right reckoning; therefore, do not be unjust to your own selves regarding them” (Holy Qur'an, 9:36). These are the lunar months upon the reckoning of which does a Muslim in the east of the earth or the west rely; chronologically arranged, they are as follows: 1) Muharram, 2) Safar, 3) Rabi' I, 4) Rabi' II, S) Jumada I, 6) Jumada II, 7) Rajab, 8) Sha'ban, 9) Ramadhan, 10) Shawwal, 11) ThulQi'da, and 12) ThulHijja. According to astronomy, the lunar calendar cannot be less than 29 days, nor can it be more than 30. It may once be 29 days and another 30, and its average is 29 days and 12 hours and five minutes. The beginning of each lunar month is recognized by the sighting of the new moon, the crescent. The Almighty says, "They ask you concerning the new moons. Say: They are times appointed for the benefit of men, and for the pilgrimage" (Holy Qur'an, 2:189). In this verse, the Almighty has explained to us how to calculate and determine time by mentioning the word ‘Ahill’, which is the plural of the Arabic singular ‘Hilal’, crescent, when it becomes visible to the naked eye. These crescents set the time for people and help them determine when the pilgrimage is to be performed.

The lunar calendar of Islam brings the fast of the month of Ramadhan eleven days earlier every year. Thus, in a cycle of about thirty-three years, it passes through all the seasons successively. Fast was first prescribed on the second of Sha'ban in the second year of Hijrah (the migration of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him and his progeny, from Mecca to Medina, corresponding to 622 A.D.).

Fast of the month of Ramadhan is the fourth pillar of Islam. The Arabic word shahr is used for a month

due to its being mushtahir, well-known or famous, that is, the knowledge thereof reaches all people, as we are told by Imam Ibn Manzoor, author of Lisan al-Arab on p. 432, Vol. 4. Such knowledge can be attained by sighting its crescent. As to the reason why it has been called the month of Ramadhan, it is due to the fact that the Arabs gave the names of the months according to the times during which they occurred, and to the fact that it so happened that the month of Ramadhan coincided with the parching days of the summer. Its root word ramd, as the same author tells us on pp. 160-161, Vol. 7, of the same lexicon, means to burn due to excessive sun-heat reflected on the desert sands. The ramda is the burning rock. This is why it was called the month of Ramadhan. One may say in Arabic that a man's feet were burnt due to the heat, so he became ramad. It is also said that it was called the month of Ramadhan because people become ramad due to their suffering from the combination of hunger and thirst during a very hot month. Arab linguists say that to make something armad is to squeeze it between two soft rocks then to pound it. A person fasting, by analogy, pounds his own nature between two rocks: hunger and thirst. According to one of his numerous traditions, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is quoted saying, "The month of Ramadhan was named so because it tends to ramad the sins, that is, burn them." The righteous at the dawn of Islam used to call it al-midmar, meaning that it emaciates the souls and bodies and helps them get rid of the excesses of evils and sins whereby the souls and bodies were laden. During the life-time of the Prophet (PBUH), the blessed month of Ramadhan used to be called al-marzooq, the one full of sustenance, due to the abundance of the blessings of Allah whereby His servants are sustained during it.

The Niyyat (Intention) to Fast

When the crescent is sighted in your area or country, a niyyat, that is, a silent declaration of intention, should be made to fast during this sacred month to attain nearness to Allah (wajib qurbatan ila-Allah). Just like the five daily prayers, the niyyat of fast is obligatory and mental, and so is the case of every deed according to Islam.

Importance of fasting

By Dr. Safdar Chadda

Every year the month of Ramadhan comes and goes; every year we fast, yet without proper appreciation of the potentials of character building that the fasts hold for us. We find ourselves as spiritually backwards after the month is over as when it began. In fact our lack of knowledge of the real objectives of fasting often tends to produce an adverse effect on us, for, as is well known, the best of medicines could have ill effects if not taken in accordance with the physician's directives and instructions. Thus it is, that the fast tends to make many of us irritable and quick tempered (expecting, as we do, VIP treatment from others, especially our subordinates and family members because of our fast) while the fast was in fact meant to mellow us into exhibiting the finer traits of human character.

difficulties, we have most unfortunately overlooked the character building force that the fasts provide us every year. Ramadhan is a month of fasting and prayers for the Muslims. The fast consists of total abstinence from food and drink from dawn to dusk. There is however, a greater significance to fasting than mere abstinence from eating and drinking. The real objective of fasting is to inculcate in man the spirit of abstinence from sins, and cultivation of virtue. Thus the Qur'an declares that the fasts have been prescribed with a view to developing piety in man. How are the many facets of piety sought to be cultivated through fasts? This article tries to list as concisely as possible, the various benefits the fasts would confer upon Muslims.

The most important consideration in undertaking a fast, as in any act of devotion, is to seek nearness to Allah (SWT), and seek His pleasure and Forgiveness. This itself generates a spirit of piety in man. Creating the conditions of hunger and thirst for oneself, simply in obedience to the Divine order, measures the faith of man in Allah (SWT) and helps strengthen it by putting it to a severe test. Fasting enhances through creation of artificial non-availability, the value of the bounties of Allah (SWT) which man often takes for granted. This inculcates in man a spirit of gratitude and consequent devotion to Allah (SWT). Nothing else can bring home to man the worth of Allah’s (SWT) bounties than a glass of water and a square meal after a day long fast.

We ought to welcome fasts as a practical means of reforming ourselves rather than consider them as an inevitable religious bondage, eagerly awaiting to free ourselves there from at the month end in order to resume our old way again. Besides of course being a means of acquiring the pleasure of Allah (SWT), for which all acts of devotion are basically meant, fasting could be used as a stepping stone to build up the various traits of character in accordance with the clear injunctions of the Qur'an itself in that fasts have been prescribed with a view to developing piety in man. In the hurry and bustle of the present day life, man often finds himself ill-equipped to battle through life's odds if he is not equipped with the proper attitude to face the various problems. While we find ourselves frustrated or look in other directions during such

This also reminds man that the real joy in enjoying Allah’s (SWT) bounties lies in moderation and restraint and not in over indulging. Fasting makes us deeply conscious of the pangs of hunger and discomfort suffered by the less fortunate amongst our brethren. They have to put up with difficult conditions all through their lives. It thus kindles in man a spirit of sacrifice leading to change towards his suffering brethren. Fasting gives man an unfailing training in endurance, a spirit of acceptance. This could well prepare him to put up with the unchangeable situations in life in the same spirit of resignation as cultivated during the fasts. Fasting develops courage, fortitude, and a fighting spirit in man to surmount the heavy odds in life with a cool and tranquil mind. It sharpens his power of concentration to overcome obstacles through a vigorous exercise all throughout the month, leading to a steeling of his will power and resolve, that could help him in challenging situations in life. It is seen than many undesirable habits which are difficult to give up, are more easily given up during the days of fasting. Fasting teaches man reliance on Allah (SWT), and confidence in Him. Just as the vigorous state of fasting for a whole month is undertaken with His assistance, bitter situations in life could also be surmounted with His help. Fasting develops a spirit of patience in man, with the realization that the days of fasting, though seemingly unending, do have a successful and happy end. Thus is life. All bitter situations pass, and come to an end.

Fasting is meant to conquer anger and develop self-control in man. The vigorous effort required to put up with hunger and thirst can well be extended to conquer other infirmities of human character that lead man into error and sin.

Fasting inculcates a spirit of tolerance in man to face unpleasant conditions and situations without making his fellow beings the victim of his wrath. Many people, when facing discomfort and deprivation, become irritable and annoyed. This anger is then vented on those around them. Fasting helps a man become more tolerant despite his own discomfort. Fasting mellows a man and enhances his character, giving a jolt to the human instincts of pride, haughtiness, jealousy and ambition. Fasting softens his character, and clears his heart and mind of many negative emotions.

Fasting exposes the weakness of man in the event of his being deprived of two basic bounties of Allah (SWT); food and drink. It infuses into him a spirit of weakness and submission, generating humility and prayer in an otherwise arrogant being. Fasting breathes the spirit of forgiveness in man towards others, as he seeks Allah (SWT)'s forgiveness through fasts and prayers. Fasting gives lessons

The Powerful Night of Ramadan

We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power: And what will explain to you what the night of power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand: Peace!...This until the rise of morn! Quran(97.1.5)

The Night of Power in His infinite wisdom is encouraged to be searched during the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. Since over fourteen centuries Muslims are striving diligently to benefit greatly from it. A rare trade indeed - pure profit and thousand times more!

Interestingly we have embraced the night for its mathematical magic but seemingly misplaced the very essence of the night. In fact, it was just another dark night. But it became the Night of Power because of what was revealed in the darkness. It is now known to us, a night better than a thousand months. The dark night is illuminating the world and the Quran is guiding the humanity ever since.

The Night of Power is celebrated powerfully. Masjid and communities celebrate the night by staying up all night, listening to lectures, reading Qur’an, etc. What seems to be missing though is to reflect on the Divine Words and to act upon it. Unless that is done, the real power will not be received from the Night of Power.

Ramadhan visits us every year and offers us a rea-

in punctuality. Man has to adhere to a strict schedule of time in the observance of the fast. Fasting could affect the economy of the individual as he is less wasteful on food and meals. Fasting demands a rigid sense of discipline, mental, spiritual and physical. This forms characteristics which are an essential ingredient to success in life.

Fasting creates spiritual reformation in man, infusing him with a spirit of enthusiasm and zest to change and become a better human being in the eyes of Allah (SWT). This is an excellent opportunity, given to believers each year, to change themselves and consequently their destinies. On the physical side, fasting cleanses the human system of the accumulated impurities of uninterrupted eating throughout the year. It prepares the body to face diseases or conditions of scarcity. The rigid abstinence of a fast regulates man's health, sharpens his intellect and enhances the qualities of his heart.

Fasting is thus a bounty in itself, encompassing within itself many bounties. It instills a spirit of reformation in man, creating a wide awakening in him to fulfil his duties towards Allah (SWT) and man, and towards himself.

son to reflect on all aspect of our lives. The objects of our wants and fears far surpass the limits of human genius, energy, and mortal life. The sum of all that we need and desire .. spiritual or material, essential or superfluous .. simply exceeds our ability to attain it. What, then, is one to do? The believer turns to his or her Creator in prayer. The response is natural. Whether moved by need or hope, or faced with misfortune or danger, people instinctively call upon Allah. Prayer is at the center of our very being and the marrow of the Muslim way of life. For many in the English speaking world, however, this face of Islam is virtually unknown.

Du’a - Supplication - Prayer is Muslim's hope for everything at all times. Let us submit ourselves and plead and plead and plead ... as He alone can relieve us of our anxieties and sufferings. Kindly

Zakaat ul Fitr

During Ramadhan

we become familiar with the experience of the needy and poor who stay hungry not out of choice but because of lack of food. By fasting we appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us by Allah and become charitable towards those in need. As if to reenforce the idea in our minds, Allah has made a wajib charity of Zakaat ul Fitr at the end of Ramadhan.

Eid ul Fitr

Eid is an Arabic word derived from root of a-w-d. Literally it means a recurring event. In Islam it denotes the festivals of ISLAM. The word Eid occurs

in the Qur'an once meaning a joyous recurring occasion.

Jesus the son of Mary said: O Allah, our Lord! send down to us food from heaven which should be to us an ever-recurring happiness, to the first of us and to the last of us, and a sign from Thee, and grant us means of subsistence, and Thou art the best of the Providers."

Qur'an- Maida 5:114

Human history has known festivals from the earliest days of man on earth. Man has celebrated festivals ever since he knew communal life. Ancient Egyptians had one called the day of adornment. It was during one such festival that Prophet Moses (A.S.) defeated the magicians.

Eid ul Fitr is the festival that marks the end of the month of Ramadhan. Fitr means to break and it therefore marks the breaking of the fasting period and of all evil habits. Happiness is observed at attaining spiritual upliftment after a month of fasting.

Educational Section

Sunday School

Ramadhaan Mubaarak to all our ICLI Sunday School families and the Islamic community as a whole.

Alhamdu-Lillah, Sunday School is now in full swing with around 200 students registered and attending classes. We are still getting several families registering every week and therefore have decided to keep Sunday School Registration open during Ramadhaan. If you have not registered your child and wish to do so, please come to the Sunday School office on Sundays between the hours of 9:30AM - 1:00PM and speak to Sr. Ellen.

As we celebrate arrival of Ramadhaan, we urge you to get involved in promoting this wonderful month in our Public Schools. Teachers at Public Schools typically welcome the sharing of cultural and religious traditions in the classroom. Inshallah, we can all offer to spend 30-40 minutes in our children's classroom during Ramadhaan and present positive and informative view of our faith to the community at large.

Last year, PTO prepared a wonderful Ramadhaan Resource packet for families to use when celebrating Ramadhaan and Eid in their children's public schools. Included in the packet are appropriate talking points, music, crafts, and recipes. Pick one up for yourself at the ICLI's Education Office.

Mark Your Calendar

October 31st Sunday School Iftar

ICLI is a very special place to be during Ramadhaan. One of the special events that are planned for this month is an Iftar Celebration for Sunday School Students and their families. This year we plan on Islamic games, crafts and activities as well as a delicious feast. Sunday School students will receive information on this special event in the coming days.

Cost of $5 per person and if you wish to sponsor please contact ICLI Sunday School 516-333 0299 or email us iclisundayschool@yahoo.com.

Have a blessed Ramadhaan. Education Committee

Girl Scouts at ICLI

Insha’Allah, everyone enjoyed a great summer! We are ready to start off our Girl Scouting Year at ICLI for girls Kindergarten - 12th Grade.

Registration: is ongoing and can be completed at any of the scheduled Girl Scout meetings. The registration and family donation fee is $20 per child or adult for the year. Also, please bring a copy of your child’s most recent physical examination record (like the one you bring to school). If your child is planning on attending a meeting, they must be registered at that meeting.

Dues $3 Per Meeting Per Scout: cover the cost of activities and snack. Dues should be brought to each meeting, by the Scout themselves. Exact change is appreciated.

“Be Prepared” ~ The Girl Scout Motto: Each meeting the girls should come prepared with their uniforms, hand books, dues and craft supply kit of scissors, glue stick, pen, pencil, markers. These items should be placed in a Girl Scout Book Bag that they keep ready and stocked for the meetings.!! A supplies, book and uniform list will be available at each meeting.

Meeting Schedule: Following is the calendar of scheduled meetings through December, held at ICLI from 7:00-8:30pm: 10/8, 10/29 (Girl Scout Iftar Dinner & Investiture Re-dedication Ceremony), 11/19, 12/3, 12/17.

Community Service: Following is the list of service our troops have to look forward to:

October - During the month of October, Girl Scouts of Nassau County is collecting coats and jackets for those in need. Please donate your gently used or new, winter coats and jackets during the 9/24 and 10/8 meeting.

October/November - Support ICLI. We have been asked to create special centerpieces for the ICLI fundraiser!!

“Our Muslim Neighbors” Telecare TV Show - Be involved in a taping of this great new show, featuring our community! Date TBA. Create a special “Girl Scout” centerpiece for the television show. Events: Following is the list of events our troops have to look forward to:

10/11 Monday Picnic at W. Hills Park 4 - 8pm (Columbus DaySchool Closed). This event was originally scheduled for August. Scouts and their siblings are invited. We will have a nature walk, learn some camping skills, pumpkin carve and have a cook out!! Cost for this event will be $5 per person. Please pay at the 9/24 meeting.

10/29 Friday Girl Scout Iftar Dinner & Investiture Rededication Ceremony ~After Salah Maghrib

We will break the fast together and the girls will officially be invested into Girl Scouting during this ceremony and will receive the Try-It’s and Badges that they have earned to date. They will also perform a special Girl Scout ceremony Families are invited to this ceremony, refreshments will be served. Please sign up to bring your favorite food, along with your family recipe for the cookbook we are compiling.

We look forward to a wonderful year in Scouting. Please call or email us if you have any questions or concerns:

Peggy Iamunno (631-549-1834) margaretaiamunno@msn.com Seema Rahman (516-485-8951) seemarahman@aol.com.

Community Round-up

Muslim Day Parade

Alhamdu-Lillah, on Sunday, September 26th ICLI sent a bus full of Sunday School students as well as members of the community to the Muslim Day Parade in Manhattan. Below are some pictures of parade.

Services Offered By ICLI (516) 333 3495

Marriage/Nikah - Performance of Marriage/Nikah ceremony and Matrimonial Service

Funeral Arrangements for Islamic Burial

Hall Rental - For family and community functions

Qur’anic Discussion - Sundays Interfaith Meeting and Seminars - To promote better understanding of Islam as a complete way of life

Distribution of literature on Islam and Muslims

Public Lectures on Contemporary Topics Every Sunday 10AM - 1PM. September to June

Visits to ICLI - First hand introduction to Islam and Muslims offered to groups or individuals

Media Consultation - On Issues relating to Al-Islam and Muslims

Letter Writing Campaign - Every Friday during Salaat-ul-Jummah and Sunday 12 noon on human rights or other issues of concern to Muslims, (MAKING OUR VOICE HEARD).

Library - Has a large selection of books

Prison Support Group for Muslim Inmates

Youth Programs - Organized by Muslim youth of ICLI throughout the year

Planning for College Seminar - An Annual event for High School students and their parents in November

Al – Zakaat - Collection and Distribution

Community Iftar - Every Saturday evening during Ramadhan

Domestic Harmony Committee (DHC) Hotline (516) 942 2081 Free and strictly confidential counseling

ISLAMIC CENTER OF LONG ISLAND

835 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, NY 11590-9619

Tel: 516-333-3495 - Fax: 516-333-7321 - Email: icli.icli@verizon.net - http://1icli.com 2004 - RAMADHAAN MUBAARAK! – 1425 A.H.

“O you who believe! Fasting is ordained for you as it was ordained for those before you, so that you may remain conscious of Allah.” Al-Qur'an (2:183) Fasting in the month of Ramadhan is obligatory on every Muslim, who is not a minor or insane. It is one of the five pillars of Islam. The real objective of fasting

Day Hijri Date (Ramadhaan) Date Oct/Nov Suhur (stop eating) Fajr Shorooq (sunrise) Zuhr Asr Maghrib Iftar (break fast) Isha

Fri 1 15 5:41 5:51 7:06 12:40 3:45 6:13 7:28

Sat 2 16 5:42 5:52 7:07 12:40 3:43 6:12 7:27

Sun 3 17 5:43 5:53 7:08 12:39 3:42 6:10 7:26

Mon 4 18 5:44 5:54 7:09 12:39 3:41 6:09 7:24

Tue 5 19 5:45 5:55 7:10 12:39 3:40 6:07 7:23

Wed 6 20 5:46 5:56 7:11 12:39 3:39 6:06 7:21

Thu 7 21 5:47 5:57 7:13 12:39 3:38 6:04 7:20

Fri 8 22 5:48 5:58 7:14 12:39 3:37 6:03 7:19

Sat 9 23 5:49 5:59 7:15 12:38 3:35 6:02 7:17

Sun 10 24 5:50 6:00 7:16 12:38 3:34 6:00 7:16

Mon 11 25 5:51 6:01 7:17 12:38 3:33 5:59 7:15

Tue 12 26 5:52 6:02 7:18 12:38 3:32 5:58 7:14

Wed 13 27 5:53 6:03 7:19 12:38 3:31 5:56 7:12

Thu 14 28 5:54 6:04 7:20 12:38 3:30 5:55 7:11

Fri 15 29 5:55 6:05 7:22 12:38 3:29 5:54 7:10

Sat 16 30 5:56 6:06 7:23 12:38 3:28 5:52 7:09

Sun 17 31 4:57 5:07 6:24 11:38 2:27 4:51 6:08

Mon 18 1 4:58 5:08 6:25 11:38 2:26 4:50 6:07

Tue 19 2 4:59 5:09 6:26 11:38 2:25 4:49 6:06

Wed 20 3 5:00 5:10 6:27 11:38 2:24 4:48 6:05

Thu 21 4 5:01 5:11 6:29 11:38 2:23 4:47 6:04

Fri 22 5 5:02 5:12 6:30 11:38 2:23 4:45 6:03

Sat 23 6 5:03 5:13 6:31 11:38 2:22 4:44 6:02

Sun 24 7 5:05 5:15 6:32 11:38 2:21 4:43 6:01

Mon 25 8 5:06 5:16 6:33 11:38 2:20 4:42 6:00

Tue 26* 9* 5:07 5:17 6:35 11:38 2:19 4:41 5:59

Wed 27 10 5:08 5:18 6:36 11:38 2:19 4:40 5:58

Thu 28 11 5:09 5:19 6:37 11:38 2:18 4:39 5:58

Fri 29 12 5:10 5:20 6:38 11:38 2:17 4:38 5:57

Sat 30 13 5:11 5:21 6:39 11:39 2:16 4:37 5:56

Taraweeh Prayer:

Adhan - 8:00p.m.

Jamaat Salaat - 8:15p.m. followed by Salaat ut Taraweeh

NOTE: The Islamic Center of Long Island (ICLI) collects and distributes Zakaat ul Fitr, Zaakat ul Maal and other donations. Please make your checks payable to ICLI, preferably before the third week of Ramadhaan, to facilitate their timely distribution.

Thank you for your donations! They are working for you! (Your Fitra must be received by the 3rd week of Ramadhaan for its timely distribution)

IMSAAK OR SAWM (Fasting) This is abstention from eating, drinking, smoking and intimate intercourse. No material substance including enema or snuff should be allowed to enter the stomach or body. Rinsing the mouth with water does not break the fast providing care is taken not to allow the water to enter the stomach. Introducing foods and vitamins into the body by any means including injections breaks the fast. The real aim is to keep the five senses free from sins and to prepare the heart for Allah. During the fast one should keep his eyes, ears, tongue, hands and feet in complete obedience to the laws of Allah.

POSTPONING FASTING: Sick, travelers, nursing mothers, pregnant women, children and women during their periods and confinements (40 days after childbirth) may postpone the fasting until the time they can make up for missed fasts.

NIYYAH - (Intention for fasting) The intention to observe fast is called “Niyyah”. It is an essential requirement for fasting. This Niyyah can be expressed orally in any language and may be said in the mind. The time to make Niyyah is before the commencement of the fast before the break of dawn. If one forgets to make the intention at the proper time, it is permissible to make it up before noon, to avoid invalidating of the fast.

NAWAYTU UN ASUMA GADDHAN MIN SHAHRIE RAMADHAAN AL-MUBAARAK, FARADHALLAKA BI-ALLAHU FATA-KABBAL MINNIY INNAKA ANTAS SAMIUL ALEEM. Meaning: “I intend to fast tomorrow in the month of Ramadhan, which is obligatory. Oh Allah, please accept from me as thou art the all hearing, the all knowing.”

IFTAR - (Breaking of Fast)The most relishing moment for a Muslim is when he or she breaks the fast at the proper time. Breaking of fast immediately after sunset (without delay), with some dates and liquid are in line with the Sunnah of the Prophet, (PBUH). In gratitude to Allah and before breaking of the fast the following du’a (supplication) is offered:

ALLAHUMMA LAKA SAMTU WA A’LA RIZQIKA AFTARTU. Meaning: “O Allah, I kept fast for your sake and break it with the food provided by you.”

TARAWEEH PRAYERS - Daily beginning Thursday, Oct 14, 2004 following Salaat ul ‘Isha.

I’TIKAAF It was the practice of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to retire into a tent, especially pitched for him in the center of the masjid, and devote his time in meditation. This seclusion and breaking away from all worldly affairs is called “I’TIKAAF” and is an important Sunnah. The “mu’takif”, one who enters into a state of “I’tikaaf”, does not leave the masjid for ten days. He eats drinks and sleeps in the masjid. He may leave the masjid for the very personal necessities such as ablution, bathing and responding to the call of nature.

ZAKAAT UL FITR or SADAQAT UL FITR (Alms) - $7.00 per every member of the family including infants and the expectant babies. Payable to the needy within the month of Ramadhan and before the Eid ul Fitr prayers.

ZAKAAT UL MAAL 2-1/2% or 1/40th of one’s funds or investments not used in over a year. To be given to the needy. Distribution highly recommended in the month of Ramadhan, when all good deeds are multiplied 70 times.

EID UL FITR – It is the festival of breaking the fast and thanksgiving at the end of Ramadhan and is celebrated on the first of Shawwal Eid ul Fitr prayers will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2003, Inshallah.

*LAILAT-UL-QADR

Thank you for your support of the Islamic Center of Long Island and its activities.