ICLI News Oct. 2005

ICLI News:

President’s Message—Ramadhan Mubarak

Building Bridges, While Building Homes

Domestic Harmony Committee Holy Months of Ramadhan Letter Touched my Heart Educational News

Community Round-Up—Muslim Day Parade Ramadhan Mubarak, Tips and Timetable

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Mon – Fri 9:30 – 12:30

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Honda Spidery 516-333-3495

Ramadhan Mubarak

Dear Fellow Muslims, Asalaamu Alaikum and Ramadhan Mubarak!

As we begin preparing for the month of Ramadhan, we are reminded in Qur’an 2:183:

“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”.

During this month, all of us strive towards meeting the objective of fasting, which is to develop “Taqwa”

– God consciousness, to lead the mind and body through a process of purification, thus promoting an aptitude for righteous thought and living, and a sense of restraint from self-indulgence.

Ramadhan is also a period of selfreflection, self-critique, and the practice of breaking away from all worldly affairs or Itikaaf, is a well-known and important Sunnah. Many Muslims will perform Itikaaf, particularly in the last ten days of Ramadhan, when they will fast, eat, drink, sleep, and live in the Masjid, reflecting while remaining disconnected from the worldly affairs.

Over the Labor Day weekend, the 42nd annual convention of the Islamic Society of North America was engaged in a period of self-reflection with the theme of “American Muslims: Accomplishments, Challenges, and the Road Ahead.” Over 30,000 Muslims engaged in a reflection of the affairs of American Muslims. The ICLI community was an active participant in this reflection. Our dynamic and vibrant members of ICLI presented sessions on the challenges facing Muslim girls growing up in America. This session was filled to capacity. In addition, ICLI’s unique outreach programs with Elderhostelers, schools, and faith groups were highlighted along with our work on Medical ethics, Freedom House report,

Tsunami relief work etc.

While the challenges ahead are many, in my view one of the major ones facing the community is clearing up the misinformation, myths, and stereotypes regarding Muslims which are prevalent in the larger community. Post 9/11, this issue has taken greater urgency and, Alhamdu Lillah, ICLI is in the forefront of reaching out and winning hearts and minds. Our efforts along with the work of like minded groups across USA seems to be working, evidenced by our personal impressions and the recent Pew national poll which showed a marked improvement regarding the perception of Muslims and Islam held by members of other faiths. Here are two specific examples to highlight this point:

September 11, 2005 : We welcomed Mr. Richard Dina, CEO of Family and Health Services, a highly respected social services organization of Long Island. Mr. Dina presented a generous donation on behalf of his organization’s employees towards ICLI’s Tsunami Relief Fund. For me, this represents a solid vote of confidence for ICLI and its programs from members of Family and Health Services.

September 18, 2005 : Rev. Tom Goodhue, Executive Director of the Long Island Council of Churches, initiated and organized a seminar at ICLI, which focused on home ownership on LI. Rev. Goodhue had invited leaders of reputable banks – Ridgewood, Bank of NY, brokers, LI Housing Services. They shared the programs available

and showed keen interest in learning about Sharia compliant Islamic banking and co-ownerships of homes. I share these examples to bring home the point that ICLI and other similar groups and organizations need to continue developing programs that will facilitate the meeting, visits and exchanges with other faith groups.

LOOKING AHEAD

New ICLI Executive: Insha Allah, in January 2006 a new group of ICLI members will assume the role of serving the community. All members will have an opportunity to participate in the election of the various executive and board members.

Sukkoth-Ramadhan Joint Service: On Saturday, October 22 nd, we will, Insha Allah, have a joint SukkothRamadhan Service at Temple Beth El in Great Neck. For those who would like to participate in this unique program, kindly call the office at 333-3495 or drop me a note. Good News: Manzar Ashtari,PhD a member of ICLI community is the recipient of the Eleventh Annual “Women Achievers Against The Odds” Award which will be given at a glittering breakfast reception on Wednesday Nov 9th 2005 at Crest Hollow Country Club, last year over six hundred attendees participated in this program. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Sr Manzar on this well deserved recognition.

ICLI Annual Dinner Saturday Nov 19th 2005- Plans and program are being developed for this annual ICLI “highlight” which will also be held at Crest Hollow Country Club.

Wishing you and your family a very blessed Ramadhan Insha Allah. Sincerely Yours,

Building Bridges, while Building Homes

“The event was a great dawah opportunity, a wonderful way of getting to know Muslim and non-Muslim volunteers who share your vision and goals,” said another Muslim volunteer.

With the weather in their favor, the volunteers picked up their tool belts and engaged in a number of tasks. One group hammered styrofoam boards into the walls of the 3-bedroom house, while another climbed scaffolding to staple shillings onto the roof of the shed. This hands-on experience brought a sense of fulfillment to many.

“The great part about it is that you get to see the fruits of your hard work at the end of the day, and learn something along the way about building and construction!” exclaimed one volunteer.

HEMPSTEAD, Long Island (Sept 10th)- It was an opportunity to build a house, as well as community relations, that drew twenty young Muslim professionals to Hempstead, Long Island, this past Saturday.

“This is a great way for Muslims to get involved in community service…It was hard work but totally FUN,” said one Muslim woman who participated in the Council of the Advancement of Muslim Professionals’ (CAMP) activity with Habitat for Humanity.

Muslim college students and professionals from the Long Island and New York metro area, took time out from their busy schedules to make a difference. They worked closely with people from different faiths and backgrounds to help transform a vacant lot into one family’s dream home.

“Working alongside the people who would actually live in the house and hearing their excitement about their future house was also amazing,” shared one of the Muslim volunteers.

This was CAMP-NY’s first home built with Habitat for Humanity and the group hopes to continue the relationship. CAMP-NY was founded in 2004 with a hope to coordinate activities for Muslim Professionals in the New York/New Jersey area. The fledging organization has over 400 members and is one of 14 CAMP chapters in North America. In all, CAMP has over 10,000 members.

For more information, email nyc@campnet.net or visit the website at http://nyc.campnet.net.

By Shazia Khan

Ramadhan Mubarak!

Al-Qur'an (2:183)

“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.”

ICLI’s Domestic Harmony Committee (DHC)

WIFE ABUSE IN THE MUSLIM COMMUNITY

Wife abuse has hurt many Muslim women, destroyed many Muslim families, and weakened the entire Muslim community. How much longer can Muslims afford to look the other way?

What does Islam say concerning domestic violence? Excerpt from Domestic violence – Islamic perspective by M. Basheer Ahmed, M.D.

"And among His signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and he has put love and mercy between your (hearts)..." Qu'ran 30:21

"I recommend that you treat women with goodness. The best of you are those who treat their wives the best." Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Domestic violence is the single major cause of injury to women in America. "Nearly one quarter of women in the United States - more than 12 million- will be abused by a current or former partner some time during their lives," according to the American Medical Association; and, despite Islamic teachings of justice and compassion, many Muslim women in the United States and Canada are no exception. “ Under no circumstances violence against women is encouraged or allowed in Islam. There are many examples in Quran and Ahadith that describes the behavior of Muslims towards husband and wife. The relationship should be one of mutual love, respect and kindness. Allah (swt) says in Quran, “O believers treat women with kindness even if you dislike them; it is quite possible that you dislike something which Allah might yet make a source of abundant good (An Nisa 4:19).

WHY DO SOME MUSLIM MEN ABUSE THEIR WIVES?

By: Kamran Memon Islamic Article http://www.jannah.org/sisters/wifeabuse.html

1 .Abusers are often part of a cycle, picking up the habit after watching their own fathers abuse their mothers in Nor h America or in Muslim countries. And their own children learn this abusive behavior and abuse their wives. (This is an important point because the longer the Muslim community tolerates abuse, the longer it will be passed on from father to son, from generation to generation.)

2. For cultural reasons, some Muslim men accept the idea that it's normal for a man to hit his wife and that she is no more than a piece of his property.

3. Some Muslim husbands abuse their wives as a result of frustration resulting from economic hardship, political oppression experienced outside the U.S., problems with the children, or an inferiority complex.

4. Some abuse their wives because they want them to be

more "modern" and less Islamic by removing their hijab (Islamic dress), while others are abusive because they want the opposite.

5. Some Muslims with superficial ties to Islam don't know that abuse is unacceptable due to their weak faith, poor Islamic knowledge, and lack of interaction with the Muslim community. Tragically, some Muslim men actually use Islam to "justify" their abusive behavior. Focusing on rituals, considering themselves to be Islamically knowledgeable, and disregarding the spirit of Islam, they wrongly use the Qur'anic verse that says men are the protectors and maintainers of women to go on power trips, demand total obedience, and order their wives around. They disregard the Islamic requirement for the head of the household to consult with other members of the family when making decisions. Then, if their wives dare to speak up or question their orders, these men misinterpret a Qur'anic verse that talks about how to treat a disobedient wife and use it as a license for abuse. In reality, the Qur'an and Sunnah provide clear instructions on what procedures a husband must use in conflict situations where the husband is innocent and the wife is rebellious and at fault. The first step is a peaceful discussion between the two of them about the problem and solutions. This is intended to soften hearts and eliminate misunderstandings. If this doesn't work, the next step is for the husband to tell his wife his expectations in a firm, decisive manner. If the rebelliousness and disobedience continues, the husband is supposed to leave the bed, which is really a punishment for both of them for not being able to resolve their differences. If that fails to solve the problem, representatives of both sides meet to try and arbitrate. As a last resort, if he thinks it will prevent divorce by letting the wife know how serious he is, the husband can use a light slap on the hand or shoulder but not on any other part of the body, and it shouldn't leave a mark or scar. Anything beyond this is Islamically prohibited. This procedure is to be followed _only_ when the wife is the cause of a serious problem and the husband is innocent, compassionate, and wellbehaved. If the husband is the cause of the problem, he has _no right_ to do any of this. Unfortunately, Muslim wives often accept un-Islamic treatment from their husbands because they don't know their Islamic rights, and they don't realize their husbands are crossing the Islamic line. Abusive men are completely disregarding the Islamic teachings of kindness, mercy, gentleness, and forgiveness, just as they are disregarding the example of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, who never hit a woman and was extremely gentle and compassionate with his family.

Domestic Harmony Committee Presents

Sunday October 9,2005 - 11:00 AM-1:00 PM: Marriage in Islam Seminar.

Sunday October 23,2005---11:00 AM-1:00 PM---Healthy Mind, Healthy Family.

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) Thul-Qi'da, and 12) Thul-Hijja. 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.

or look in other directions during such 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 nonavailability, 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

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-

(Continued from page 7)

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 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

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 reason to reflect on all aspect of our lives. The objects of our

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.

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.

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.

Zakaat up 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 up Fitr at the end of Ramadhan.

Eid up 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 up 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.

The Letter that Touched My Heart

By Tahira Muhammad

“(Their bearings) on this life and the Hereafter. They ask thee concerning orphans. Say: "The best thing to do is what is for their good; if ye mix their affairs with yours, they are your brethren; but Allah knows the man who means mischief from the man who means good. And if Allah had wished, He could have put you into difficulties: He is indeed Exalted in Power, Wise."

(Surah 2 Verse 220)

I am writing this article to share with you a letter that came to our ICLI office that touched my heart. Working here at the Masjid one cannot help to feel sympathy for those whose lives we know have been afflicted by a tragedy or an illness. There are so many problems affecting the Muslim Ummah in the world today. From natural disasters to famines, to political wars, etc. It is difficult to hear about these tragedies and not want to reach out and help those who are in need. Of course, it is impossible to take on the problems of the world on our shoulders. But the conscious of someone who loves Allah and humanity cries when you hear of your fellow brother or sister who is suffering. We all have our problems but there is always someone out there whose problems are worse than yours. Here is part of the letter that came to our office. It is written by a young orphan lady in Ghana West Africa:

Dear Sir or Madam, As-Salaamu-alaikum,

I need your financial help for Allah’s sake. May Allah Almighty Bless you. I am a student at Muslim Woman’s Study Group. By Allah, I grew up under the care of my mother. My father died when I was less than ten years old. He was a hard laborer and since his death life has become difficult and unbearable for us. I used to attend both secular and Islamic Schools but since our father’s death we cannot afford to pay the fees. Therefore me and my two younger sisters only can attend the secular school. One has to be Catholic or Christian in order to get a scholarship to attend a religious school. My father was a serious devout Muslim and he brought us up in an Islamic way. He loved to Zikhr and recite the Quran. Since his death I have to help my mother to sell Kenkey on the street as a means of survival.

I really need your financial assistance. If you can help me with any amount of money that can start a business or learn a trade I would greatly appreciate it. May Allah solve all of your difficult problems as you intend to solve mine.

Sincerely,

Fatimatu Yakoub

Now this letter came to our office from this young lady who had no knowledge that I worked here or that I lived in Ghana for a year and a half. The food she mentioned

in the letter (kenkey) is a Ghanaian dish that sells for less than 10 cents. The average Ghanaian family can eat a full meal for a dollar a day. For her family to earn enough money to feed themselves just for that day they have to get up at dawn and walk around in the hot sun until six in the evening to hope to make enough for the family to eat for that day. I have witnessed this myself in when I lived in Ghana between 2001-2003. In my daily travels I see children who should be in school have to stand on the roadside and sell anything from ice water to other food items to earn money for their families. I was touched by this letter and I could not sleep at night without wanting to do something for this girl. Even though I have never met her before it bothered me to read her letter and not do anything for her. So I decided that I will send her $10.00 a month which is 92,000 cedies (Ghanaian money). This is enough to feed her family at least for a month. I wrote to her to let her know that this was my intention, Inshallah. After two weeks her response came to my house.

And come not nigh to the orphan's property, except to improve it, until he attain the age of full strength; give measure and weight with (full) justice;- no burden do We place on any soul, but that which it can bear;- whenever ye speak, speak justly, even if a near relative is concerned; and fulfill the covenant of Allah. Thus doth He command you, that ye may remember. (Surah 6 Verse 152)

Educational Section

Ramadhan Mubarak,

Dear Parents, Asalaamu Alaikum. We hope you and your children have settled down nicely with the Sunday School schedule.

Alhamdu-Lillah after three weeks of school, there are just under 200 students enrolled and we are still getting a handful of students being registered every Sunday.

We have a lot of exciting events planned for this year and Inshallah, with the help of the PTO, ICLI Youth and ICLI Management this will be another successful year for all the ICLI families and students. Some of the events scheduled are Sunday School Iftar on October 16th (see flyer in children's backpacks), presentations and guidance from our Muslim professionals for Classes E & F students , and trip to the Children’s Museum of Manhattan for festive Ramadhan program for classes Pre-K to D

On Sunday September 25th several students represented ICLI to the Muslim Day Parade and we had Class C stu-

dents do a great job in selling lemonade to passersby and raising $142 dollars for victims of Hurricane Katrina. On Sunday October 2nd, ICLI Youth will have a bake sale to raise more money for the victims of Hurricane Katrina & Rita.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact Br. Rizwan or myself (Sohail Nabi): Tel: 516-333 0299 Email: iclisundayschool@yahoo.com

Sincerely, Sohail Nabi (Co-Chair)

835 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, NY 11590 Tel: 516-333-3495 - Fax: 516-333-7321 - Email: icli.icli@verizon.net Website: http://www.1icli.com

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Al-Islam, Asalamu Alaikum wa Rahmat Allah:

Ramadhan Mubarak!

Insh‘Allah, on Wednesday, October 5, 2005, the Muslim community in Long Island, New York will begin the month-long fast of Ramadhan. (Note: Because the beginning of Islamic lunar months depends on the actual sighting of the new moon, the start and end dates for Ramadhan may vary).

The fast is performed to learn discipline, self-restraint and generosity, while obeying Allah's commandments. The end of Ramadhan will be marked by communal prayers called "Salat-ul-Eid up-Fitr," or Prayers of Feast of the Fast-Breaking, on Friday, November 4, 2005, Insha’Allah.

At ICLI, we have made arrangements to collect and distribute Zakat-up-Fitr before the end of Ramadhan. A committee has been formed to collect and distribute Zakat-up-Mal (alms calculated annually and given to the needy). According to several ahadith of the Prophet (pbuh), all good deeds performed in the month of Ramadhan are rewarded 70 times greater as compared to any other month. Hence, we urge everyone to mail in their share of Zakat-up-Mal during the month of Ramadhan. A Ramadhan timetable with pertinent information and an envelope for your donations are enclosed for your convenience. Due to rising administrative costs, we hope you will be able to include an additional donation to ICLI.

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

Services Offered By

of your Zakat-up-Maal and or Zakat-up-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 Taraweeh 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. 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 Taraweeh 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.

Kindly visit ICLI’s web site: http://1icli.com for current information regarding moon sighting, special programs and events during Ramadhan.

Jazaakum Allah Khairan and Ramadhan Mubarak to you, your family and the Ummah.

ICLI

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-up-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

(Your fitra must be received by the 3rd week of Ramadhan for its timely distribution)

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 – Zakat - Collection and Distribution Community Iftar - Every Saturday evening during Ramadhan

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

Quran Classes—Offered from beginners to Hifz level and are held weekdays (Monday to Friday) from 4pm till 8pm. Contact Dr. Samina Qureshi on (516) 681 6256 or email ssq85@optonline.net

Sunday School - Offering comprehensive Islamic Studies for 4 yrs to 16 yr olds. Call (516) 333 0299 or email iclisundayschool@yahoo.com for more details.

Contact ICLI Main Office for more details: (516)-333 3495

Thank you for your donations! They are working for you!

17 Tips for Parents to Present Ramadan in Your Child's Class

Parents talking to their children’s principals, teachers and classmates in public schools about Ramadan is of immense importance.

By doing so, Muslim children feel less awkward identifying themselves as Muslims, since someone in an authority position has discussed what they believe what they do. As a result, the children often feel more confident and secure. Well, Muslim children need to feel the importance of their own celebrations and holidays, especially since we are living in a non-Muslim environment where kids don’t see fancy lights and decorations, commercial hoopla or consistent reminders of the "holiday season" during Ramadan.

And of course, talking to your child’s class about Ramadan is a great way to make Da’wa to non-Muslim kids and Muslim kids as well, in particular those who may come from non-practicing Muslim families.

There are a several of tips to keep in mind when approaching the school or your child’s teachers about presenting, as well as for how you present the information to the child’s class:

Tip #1: Start early - Calling your child’s teacher in the middle of Ramadhan asking to do a presentation on the topic is too late. Now, less than a month before Ramadhan is the best time to bring up the issue, especially considering Christmas is coming up and holidays are on the minds of most people, teachers and students included.

Starting early also helps you think about and gather the right materials to make a good presentation.

Tip #2: Get permission from your child’s teacher - While parents do have a lot of clout in the school system, this does not allow them to show up unexpectedly one day at their son or daughter’s class to do a presentation on Ramadan.

Send a letter (see http://www.soundvision.com) giving a general indication that you want something done about Ramadan. Then wait for the teacher to call. If he or she does not do so within a week, call them and tell them you are following up on the letter you sent earlier.

Tip #3: Select the right period in which to do the presentation Does your child study Social Studies? Or does he or she have a period once a week for moral and Religious education? If so, suggest to the teacher that you would like to do the presentation during these periods. Or, you can, of course, ask the teacher if he or she has ideas about which time would be best to come in and do the presentation.

Tip #4: Be polite but firm - Speaking nicely to people is part of our Deen, including non-Muslims. We should remember that the purpose of this exercise is to not just educate the students, but the teachers as well. Being polite and courteous will not detract from your desire to present. It will serve to build bridges and communication, and could lead to further contact to do presentations on other Islam-related topics and more teacher-parent cooperation in the future, Insha’Allah.

Tip #5: Ask the teacher what areas to cover and how long it should be - This helps to adjust your presentation to the age level of the students, as well as connect it to what they are already learning. This doesn’t mean you can’t bring in other information, but knowing what to cover from the teacher helps you put down what has to be covered and from there you can develop more points on these or related topics. Asking how long the presentation should be can also help you decide how much you can include in your presentation.

Tip #6: Read, prepare, read, prepare - Now that you’ve gotten the

permission, you don’t just sit back and wait for the night before the presentation to put it together.

Remember, if you want to appeal to the students, especially younger ones, you are going to need more than just a talk. Visuals are a great help. You can get a Ramadan banner (see Sound Vision’s Ramadan packet at http://www.soundvision.com) pictures of Muslims fasting, show part of a video aimed at children about Ramadan (see Adam’s World’s Ramadan Mubarak video at http://www.soundvision.com). To get the right material, you will have to find out where to get it from, and ordering it might take a couple of weeks.

Preparing is important, even though you may have fasted all of your life and think you know all about Ramadan. Get a children’s Islamic book and read what it says about Ramadan. Or an article written by a teenager about Ramadan. This will also help you understand what points to emphasize in your presentation.

Reading up will also clarify any incorrect cultural norms that may have seeped into the practice of Ramadan which you may not have been aware of. Talk to a knowledgeable Muslim for advice as well.

Tip #7: Talk to your son or daughter about the presentationWho would know better the mind set of the kids in the class than your son or daughter? Consult them about what to include, what the kids like, what kind of things they are interested in. Not only will this improve your presentation, Insha’Allah, but it will also make Ameena or Saeed feel important and more confident as individuals, and as Muslims.

Tip #8: A few days before the presentation - Call the teacher to check the date and time of the schedule. This will serve to remind him or her about your visit and prepare the class accordingly. It will also help you get the exact time and date.

Tip #9: Write presentation points on note cards - Reading off papers about Ramadan will not hold the interest of many people, young or old. Instead, writing brief notes on note cards that you can look at so you don’t miss any topic will help you avoid straying from the subject while allowing you to make eye contact with your audience and maintain a conversational style of presentation.

Tip #10: Practice your presentation in front of your son/ daughter - Practicing helps you identify what can be improved, changed or omitted. Practicing in front of Ameena will give you the opportunity to present before one of the kids in the class who can really give you the best advice.

It will also help you time your presentation, so you can make it shorter or longer.

Tip #11: Dress for success - This does not mean pulling out the Armani suit or the most expensive dress you have. It just means looking as a Muslim should-clean, respectable, professional and Islamically covered. Clothes don’t always "make the man" but they do affect others’ perception of you.

Tip #12: Be early - Teachers and students are busy people. They have a certain curriculum to cover. The fact that they’ve squeezed in your presentation is somewhat of a privilege. Don’t take advantage of this by wasting their time by coming late. And anyways, Muslims should be on time as a principle.

Coming early can also help you set up our audio visual material.

Tip #13: Make Dua - Before your presentation. Ask Allah to help you convey this message sincerely, properly and clearly. And say Bismillah.

Tip #14: Speak calmly and clearly - It’s important not to race through the presentation, nor to talk too slowly. A clear, conversational style, but emphasis on the major points or terms you want the students to understand can help convey the message properly.

Tip #15: When answering questions - If you don’t know something, say so. Then check up on it and get back to the teacher. Ask him or her to convey the response.

Tip #16: Thank Allah (SWT) - for this opportunity He blessed you with and your ability to go through with it.

Tip #17: Send a thank you note to the teacher and class - thanking them for their time and attention, as well as their cooperation in Ramadhan.

ISLAMIC CENTER OF LONG ISLAND 835 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, NY 11590-9619 Tel: 516-333-3495 - Fax: 516-333-7321 - Email: 1icli@optonline.net - http://icliny.org

2005 - RAMADHAN MUBAARAK! – 1426 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 Date Oct/Nov Suhur (stop Fajr Shorooq (sunrise) Zuhr Asr Maghrib Iftar Isha

WED 1 5 5:14 5:24 6:55 12:48 4:45 6:33 8:00

THU 2 6 5:15 5:25 6:56 12:47 4:43 6:31 7:59

FRI 3 7 5:16 5:26 6:57 12:47 4:42 6:29 7:57

SAT 4 8 5:17 5:27 6:58 12:47 4:40 6:28 7:55

SUN 5 9 5:18 5:28 6:59 12:46 4:39 6:26 7:54

MON 6 10 5:19 5:29 7:00 12:46 4:38 6:24 7:52

TUE 7 11 5:20 5:30 7:01 12:46 4:36 6:23 7:51

WED 8 12 5:21 5:31 7:02 12:46 4:35 6:21 7:49

THU 9 13 5:22 5:32 7:04 12:45 4:33 6:20 7:48

FRI 10 14 5:23 5:33 7:05 12:45 4:32 6:18 7:46

SAT 11 15 5:24 5:34 7:06 12:45 4:31 6:17 7:45

SUN 12 16 5:25 5:35 7:07 12:45 4:29 6:15 7:43

MON 13 17 5:26 5:36 7:08 12:45 4:28 6:14 7:42

TUE 14 18 5:27 5:37 7:09 12:44 4:26 6:12 7:40

WED 15 19 5:29 5:39 7:10 12:44 4:25 6:11 7:39

THU 16 20 5:30 5:40 7:11 12:44 4:24 6:09 7:38

FRI 17 21 5:31 5:41 7:12 12:44 4:22 6:08 7:36

SAT 18 22 5:32 5:42 7:13 12:44 4:21 6:06 7:35

SUN 19 23 5:33 5:43 7:15 12:44 4:20 6:05 7:34

MON 20 24 5:34 5:44 7:16 12:43 4:18 6:04 7:32

TUE 21 25 5:35 5:45 7:17 12:43 4:17 6:02 7:31

WED 22 26 5:36 5:46 7:18 12:43 4:16 6:01 7:30

THU 23 27 5:37 5:47 7:19 12:43 4:15 6:00 7:29

FRI 24 28 5:38 5:48 7:20 12:43 4:13 5:58 7:28

SAT 25 29 5:39 5:49 7:21 12:43 4:12 5:57 7:26

SUN 26* 30 4:40 4:50 6:23 11:43 3:11 4:56 6:25 MON 27 31 4:41 4:51 6:24 11:43 3:10 4:55 6:24 TUE 28 1 4:42 4:52 6:25 11:43 3:09 4:53 6:23 WED 29 2 4:43 4:53 6:26 11:43 3:08 4:52 6:22

THU 30 3 4:44 4:54 6:27 11:43 3:07 4:51 6:21

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 up Fitr, Zaakat up Maal and other donations. Please make your checks payable to ICLI, preferably before the third week of Ramadhan, 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 Ramadhan 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 RAMADHAN AL-MUBAARAK, FARADHALLAKA BI-ALLAHU FATAKABBAL 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 up ‘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 up 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 up 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.